Saturday, September 21, 2024

Impact Write-Up (December 19th, 2013): Madison “Rayne”s Supreme

Eleri
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Impact Write-Up (December 19th, 2013): Madison “Rayne”s Supreme

So last weeks the ever-wonderful Cryssi filled in for me, and I missed out on recapping the return of the one and only Madison Rayne! Seriously, who looks that good post-baby in like, what, three months? She looks incredible, and last night we saw her return to the ring. She teamed with ODB, whose aid she came to last week, and the pair took on the current Knockouts Champ, Gail Kim, and her lady in waiting, Lei’D Tapa.

Dixie Carter made an appearance during the Feast or Fired segment of Impact, and it appears her issues with Sting are far from over.

Before the match, we were shown a hype package featuring Madison and Gail, detailing their past friendship and the inevitable tensions that broke them apart.

And now, onto the match.

Out first is the team of Gail and Tapa. They’re quickly followed by ODB and Madison. In a message to her fans on Impact365, Madison told of how the new Madison won’t even compare to the one from the last four years. It seems the winds of change are blowing, and I for one can’t wait for Madison to knock Gail off her pedestal.

Kicking things off in the ring are Madison and Tapa, and I’m sure Madison is feeling the pressure now. Not only is it her first go around since coming back, but she’s taking on Lei’D Tapa, who’s arguably one of the toughest women the company has seen yet. Madison takes the fight to Tapa, but can’t get the upper hand. Gail laughs in her exBFF’s face. Rude. Madison gets herself over to her corner, and ODB begs for the tag.

This is something a lot of Knockouts fans have wanted to see for a while, and something a lot of others don’t want to see at all. The ladies lock up and it’s gridlock for a moment, but Tapa dominates ODB and drives her into the corner. ODB turns things around and get the offense rolling with some chops and right hands. She goes for an Irish whip, but she can’t shift Tapa. At all. Tapa in control with a slam, and in comes Gail.

Madison tries to rally the crowd behind ODB, while Gail pounds on her in the corner. Gail doesn’t let up. She hits the running elbow and sends ODB to the mat by her hair, then laps up the boos and hate from the crowd. Her new attire is awesome. Gail attempts a second elbow, but ODB comes charging out of the corner and takes out the champ with a big clothesline. ODB’s on the offensive now, and she tries to knock Tapa off the apron. Tapa hangs on, and then grabs a handful of ODB’s hair. She’s distracted long enough for Gail to land a missile drop kick on her opponent.

Tapa tags back in as the crowd gets behind ODB. She gets womanhandled by Tapa, and can’t catch a break. A big boot to the face and ODB is just dropped again. Gail comes back in and just won’t let up. ODB manages a brief comeback, splattering Gail Kim. Both women are down, and I sense a hot tag coming.

Madison gets the tag and goes right after Gail with clotheslines. She’s throwing the champ around the ring. She follows up with a huge spear, executed beautifully, and slams Gail’s head repeatedly into the mat. Tapa’s had enough and gets in the ring, but ODB isn’t done with her yet. She jumps on her back and applies a sleeper, but Tapa just dumps her right out of the ring. Tapa excuses herself and Gail goes after Madison again. Gail’s in control once again, trash talking and choking her former friend. She sets up the Eat Defeat…

…but Madison counters with a backslide and gets the three count!

Madison has beaten the champion, and she’s the first one to do so since the open challenge. Do I smell a title shot? Madison is ecstatic, and Gail’s just a little bit livid.

I’m excited that Madison Rayne is back. Seriously. I think her and Gail this time around will be interesting; she’ll be the underdog trying to topple a government. Or, in a less dramatic fashion, the goodie trying to beat the baddie. I just hope she wins the title sooner rather than later. How are you lot feeling about Madison’s return? How do you see it playing out? Sound off below!

In closing, I just want to wish all of the Diva Dirt readers a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy Holidays, wherever you’ll be and whatever you’ll be doing. From the Diva Dirt Family to yours.

Until next time, guys!

The Five to Watch 2013: Santana Garrett

Erin
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The Five to Watch 2013: Santana Garrett

Welcome to Diva Dirt’s Five to Watch 2013! This annual list compiles five rising talents in the world of women’s wrestling that we think have what it takes to be the next big thing.

RELATED: Diva Dirt’s Five to Watch Class of 2012

From their in-ring abilities to their unique personalities, we aim to spotlight some of the upcoming female talent that you may not yet know about. Over the next five days, we will unveil the names that the Diva Dirt staff have handpicked.
 

ONE TO WATCH: SANTANA GARRETT

Who is she?: Santana Garrett isn’t just a firey young indy star with a “headband of power” – she’s a second generation wrestler too. Her father, TNT Keny G, wrestled in St. Louis and the surrounding territories and inspired her to enter the business. She burst onto the scene at the tender age of 21, gradually making a name for herself in smaller promotions before debuting in a short-lived role for TNA in 2010. She currently resides in Ocala, Florida, where she rooms with Larry Zbyszko – yes, that Larry Zbyszko.

Photo: @nerdyjordy/Twitter
Photo: @nerdyjordy/Twitter

Her story so far: Since Santana made her SHIMMER debut in 2012, it’s seemed as though she’s been everywhere we turn, from newspaper articles to SHINE to OVW to TNA’s Knockout Knockdown Pay-Per-View to an episode of WWE NXT. The latter appearance had the internet buzzing that Santana was close to being signed by the WWE. Though a deal with WWE or TNA has yet to come to fruition, we think it’s only a matter of time before one of the “big two” nab her. Until then, she seems content to dazzle the indy circuit, charming audiences with Amber O’Neal as America’s Sweethearts. Though a loss forced the duo to split at SHINE 15, it won’t be the last that young promotion has seen of her. On top of all that, Santana made history this year, becoming the first female to win the SCW Florida Cruiserweight Championship in its 13 year history.

Photo: ImpactWrestling.com
Photo: ImpactWrestling.com

Why we chose her: When it comes to female indy wrestlers, no name has had more buzz in 2013 than Santana. Who else has appeared for the two big all-female promotions, TNA and the WWE this year? She’s helped stoke the flames on her Twitter account, too, adding to speculation that she’s on the WWE’s radar. The fact that she made her PWI Female 50 debut this year isn’t a coincidence: this was her breakout year. At this rate, by this time next year, she’ll be on everyone’s radar.

Follow Santana on Twitter: @Santana_Garrett.

PREVIOUSLY: Candice LeRae | Lana

Picture of the Day: Bayley and Paige Are All Hugs

Bobby
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Picture of the Day: Bayley and Paige Are All Hugs

Christmas is in the air and it seems the festive spirit has already taken over NXT.

The Divas took to their finest holiday gear for a special photoshoot to be released sometime in the future. What happened when the cameras weren’t snapping pictures, though? Hugs, of course!

We can only assume that Bayley decided Women’s Champion Paige had qualified for the nice list this year and thus decided to give her her an early present: a big old hug. Doesn’t Paige look thrilled?

Paige posted the picture on her Twitter account, tweeting:

Now onto the big question: how do you think Paige repaid Bayley for the kind gesture?

Impact Wrestling Feedback: December 19th, 2013

Erin
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Impact Wrestling Feedback: December 19th, 2013

Get your weekly dose of Knockouts action on tonight’s Impact Wrestling. Tune in to Spike TV at the start time of 9pm ET.

Discuss the show in the comments!

RELATED: Impact Wrestling Spoilers: December 19th & 26th, 2013

NXT Redux (December 18th, 2013): Paige & Sasha Bash, Lana & Kofi Clash and Emma & Nattie Talk Trash

Jack
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NXT Redux (December 18th, 2013): Paige & Sasha Bash, Lana & Kofi Clash and Emma & Nattie Talk Trash

sasha vs paige

What’s up Diva fans and welcome to this week’s NXT Redux. It’s double duty day again here at Diva Dirt and as promised, I’m back! After Main Event’s awesome showing, NXT has also provided some excellent stocking fillers for everyone. In backstage segments, we get appearances from Emma, Natalya, Devin Taylor and Lana. In the ring, NXT Women’s Champion Paige takes on one third of the BFFs, Sasha Banks with Alexa Bliss on ring announcing duty. As always with a Sasha match, Summer Rae is not far behind and yet again, Charlotte is keeping a low profile – the bloody coward! Without further ado, let’s jump right in.

TO THE VIDEO!

The first segment this week featured Emma and Natalya. Emma danced around as Nattie was looking at a monitor backstage. Nattie says she is watching Tyson Kidd‘s match and Emma nearly poked her eye out. Emma, whilst being mega annoying, was nowhere near Nattie’s eyes and Natalya, the match just finished – I guess you’re on a delay! Nattie re-iterates that she is watching the match when she clearly isn’t and Emma says it’s her bad, how dare she interrupt the big reality TV star that no longer cares about NXT, unless she inserts herself into a title match! Tal retaliates by saying that Emma can’t talk, she won a title shot thanks to a “silly dance off”. Emma and Nattie say that dancing and wrestling are in their bloody respectively before Natalya issues a challenge to “tango” with her in a match to see who truly deserves a match against Paige. Emma accepts before both girls trade adjectives before walking off and I scratch my head at what the hell I just witnessed.

We’re out into the Full Sail Arena next as Sasha Banks sasses her way to the ring. Her and her fellow BFF Summer Rae click together, showcasing the FIERCE that is within their team name. Alexa Bliss is also doing a great job on ring announcing duty. Kendall Skye and Veronica Lane better watch out! Out next is the Sally to my Harry, the NXT Women’s Champion, Paige. Paige as usual, laps up the amazing reception she gets and as usual, I’m air guitaring to her entrance music.

The match starts out full of aggression. Paige goes ballistic on Sasha’s weave before ‘The Boss’ retaliates with a mega slapfest to the chest. Sasha runs toward Paige in the corner and gets hoisted to the apron. Summer makes her presence felt by distracting Paige, which allows Sasha to snap Paige’s neck over the top rope. Sasha stomps Paige like the art of kicking arse is going out of fashion and then she mocks Paige’s trademark banshee scream. Paige tries to mount a comeback but Sasha stays on her, locking in a vice-like sleeper hold complete with body scissors. Paige writhes in pain for some time before finally getting back to her feet and breaking free by ramming Sasha into the tunrbuckle. Sasha fights back with a slap to the chest and she then looks set to hit her springboard armdrag. For the second week in a row though, the move is countered and Paige has the opening she needs!

Paige brutalizes Sasha with a flurry of consecutive clotheslines before taking her out with a sweet dropkick. Paige runs across the ropes, yet her arch rival Summer trips her up. Sasha then charges at Paige, only to miss and kick Summer in the face. Paige hits a hard thrust kick before transitioning a backslide position into the Paige Turner for the win.

Our final Diva segment of the night sees Devin Taylor interview Kofi Kingston. I proceed to watch paint dry whilst Kofi drones on and then I put my paintbrush down when Lana pops up on screen. The Russian Diva speaks in her native tongue before Kofi is all diplomatic and is like “I’m so sorry lovely lady, I can’t understand you.” Kofi, grow a backbone and a personality please! Lana then says that her client Alexander Rusev wishes to crush Kofi in the ring next week. Kofi accepts as the mysterious Lana departs. Video of the segment isn’t embeddable, so click here to see it.

Thoughts: First up, let’s address Emma and Natalya’s interaction. Like Nattie’s segment with Paige a few weeks ago, things seemed a little off here, with both characters acting like tweeners. Whilst Natalya raised some good arguments (about Emma winning a dance off to become #1 Contender and her amazing line: “you think I haven’t earned it?”), some moments left her coming across as a right prude and totally annoying. “I’m trying to watch a match.” THE MATCH HAS ALREADY FINISHED! I am really excited to see these two clash next week though. It should be a masterclass!

Sasha and Paige’s match was one of those bouts where although it’s short, it felt really long. Nothing dragged for me, they had excellent chemistry and it was action packed, with dramatic aggression, interference from Summer and intriguing miscommunication between the BFFs. I loved the way Paige didn’t let go of Sasha’s wrist when she consecutively clotheslined her and the transition into the Paige Turner was really unique. It’s great to see that the girls are coming up with new ways to make finishers stand out and not seem like they are creating the same moment over and over again.

Finally, I loved Lana. Although Kofi Kingston’s mic work was horrendous, Lana still made the segment enjoyable. Her latest WWE.com interview has made me fall in love with her character and I can’t wait to see her and Alexander debut their new sports team look on NXT TV. Lana is definitely a one to watch in 2014. And with that, stay tuned, Jack will be back!

Xplosion Write-Up (December 18th, 2013): Brooke and Velvet Go Taunt-for-Taunt

Erin
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Xplosion Write-Up (December 18th, 2013): Brooke and Velvet Go Taunt-for-Taunt

The latest edition of TNA Xplosion features a match between Brooke and Velvet Sky. Let’s get right into it:

Brooke skirts their first two tie-ups, giving her ample time to taunt the crowd in between. Velvet then returns the favor, doing some taunting of her own. Finally, the action starts when Velvet hits Brooke with a drop toe-hold. She captures Brooke in a side headlock, tossing her to the mat while retaining the hold.

Brooke tries twice to roll Velvet into a pin, but Velvet uses her momentum to roll out of it, keeping control until Brooke makes her way to her feet, delivering blows to Velvet’s side until she frees herself and shoves Velvet into the ropes. On the return, though, Velvet manages to knock Brooke to the mat.

Velvet ducks an attack from Brooke and latches her into another side headlock, eventually Irish whipping her into the ropes. Brooke holds onto the ropes, though, and takes the opportunity to straddle the ropes and mock Velvet’s signature booty shaking entrance. Velvet responds by drop kicking Brooke off the apron, sending her all the way to the outside as Xplosion heads to a commercial break.

Back from commercials, both competitors are now in the ring. Velvet again ducks several attacks from Brooke and catches her in yet another side headlock. This time, Brooke shoves her off and into the ropes, using Velvet’s momentum against her and tossing her through the ropes and to the outside.

Brooke follows Velvet and tosses her into the steel steps, slipping back into the ring long enough to break the referee’s count. She then tosses Velvet over the fan barricade, smacking her backside to add insult to injury. She slams Velvet face-first into the ring apron before sending her back into the ring and going for a pin attempt. Velvet kicks out at two.

Brooke yanks Velvet onto all fours and jumps upon her back twice before leaning her against the ropes, grabbing her face and tugging at the skin. Brooke hangs on to the hold as Velvet gets to her feet and finds herself run into the corner. Velvet frees herself and hits the mat, Brooke leaning against the turnbuckle.

Velvet is tossed into a corner and gets several boots to the midsection, Brooke stopping to taunt the crowd before trying to squash Velvet in to corner. Velvet telegraphs the attack, though, and dives out of the way. Both Knockouts run the ropes and come at each other at the same time, delivering a double clothesline that leaves them both prone on the mat.

They both get to their feet at the same time, Velvet blocking blows from Brooke and landing her own before hitting her with not one, but two Atomic Drops. Brooke retreats and dodges another attack from Velvet, stomping her in the corner. Velvet reverses an Irish whip into the corner, taking Brooke and hitting her with the In Yo Face for the pin and the win!

Thoughts: This wasn’t a mat classic, but it obviously wasn’t meant to be. I liked that this showcased Brooke’s heel persona a bit more, even if it focused a little too much on the comedy. They added interest by taking the match outside the ring, but the repetition of the moves made it drag a bit. I think these two could grow a bit by continuing to work with one another, and Xplosion provides a nice outlet for that, much like WWE’s Main Event and Superstars shows. Keep it coming, TNA!

WWE.com Explores Lana’s Origins in Russia

Erin
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WWE.com Explores Lana’s Origins in Russia

WWE.com has published an in-character interview with Lana, NXT Diva and manager for rising star Alexander Rusev. The article fleshes out her character’s background, telling us more about her time before NXT.

How she became Rusev’s manager: “My parents told me I needed to find a hobby. Because I wasn’t married and didn’t have children, they told me I should find a hobby like my uncle, who owns a sports team. I looked into the possibility of investing in a team or an athlete, and that’s when I found Rusev. I guess you could say we have become good friends from working to make the #RusevLegacy the strongest force in NXT.”

Her responsibilities as Rusev’s “Social Ambassador”: “I take care of all his public relations matters, I handle his social media, I am his cultural ambassador and I schedule his appointments and public appearances. I make sure he has his proper dietary consumption of meat along with his favorite Greek yogurt for energy and strength. The American and Eastern European/Russian cultures are very different. I make sure there is nothing that distracts him from staying focused on building his legacy.”

Her childhood in Russia: “Our culture and mindset are completely different than those of Americans. I had a tennis court in my backyard that eight months of the year my dad would turn into an ice skating rink because it was so cold. My brothers played professional hockey, and I would figure skate for fun. Starting at nine years old, I went to the elite Vaganova Ballet School, where the famous Mikhail Baryshnikov attended.

When I was 10, I started dancing professionally in the Boloshoi Ballet Theater. I would train 40 hours a week. My teachers would throw their shoes at me if I was off by even a count, and if I messed up a dance step, they would throw their chair at me because they demanded perfection and anything else was unacceptable. I remember coming home with awful bruises from my teacher’s paddle. We also were not allowed to drink water while we trained. Sometimes training would go for five hours, but they believed drinking water was a form of weakness. I didn’t have the easy life of an American teenager, yet I loved my life.”

Growing up wealthy: “Quite frankly, my parents are very rich. I lived in the richest part of Moscow with many international dignitaries. My neighbor was the South African ambassador’s daughter. She eventually became my best friend and taught me English. I grew up with two full-time cooks, three drivers, four maids, two nannies and a gardener. Besides our three cars, we also had a private bus. My family has a summer dacha (summer home) in the Jurmala resort, which is located in the country of Latvia, where the mayor and president were our neighbors. Not to mention, we also have penthouses in New York City and Miami, plus a house in the Hollywood Hills.”

Her thoughts on NXT’s Divas: “They are cute little girls that do not know much about the realities of life. I dress more conservatively than most Divas because we live in a man’s world, and to be as powerful as a man, you have to think like a man but act like a lady. I am not just a pretty Diva. I am an entrepreneur and businesswoman.”

Read the full interview on WWE.com.

The Five to Watch 2013: Lana

Bobby
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The Five to Watch 2013: Lana

Welcome to Diva Dirt’s Five to Watch 2013! This annual list compiles five rising talents in the world of women’s wrestling that we think have what it takes to be the next big thing.

RELATED: Diva Dirt’s Five to Watch Class of 2012

From their in-ring abilities to their unique personalities, we aim to spotlight some of the upcoming female talent that you may not yet know about. Over the next five days, we will unveil the names that the Diva Dirt staff have handpicked.
 

ONE TO WATCH: LANA

Who is she?: Lana, real name CJ Perry, first shot to headlines as one of ten females selected for a WWE tryout camp in California earlier this year. Despite not being signed immediately like fellow Divas Eva Marie and JoJo, Perry was hired shortly thereafter and began her journey through developmental program, NXT. CJ was given the ring name of Lana, and after a few months of sporadic live event appearances, paired up with Bulgarian Heavyweight, Alexander Rusev. Together, the two have already debuted on the NXT television program, where she can frequently be seen introducing him to the ring and either watching or aiding him to many a victory if needed to get her hands a little dirty in order to get the job done.

Photo: Lana/Instagram
Photo: Lana/Instagram

Her story so far: Born in Florida, yet raised in Latvia for most of her life, CJ Perry started off at a young age doing ballet back in Russia. However, as she got a bit older, CJ decided to pack up and return to her roots in order to attend Florida State University. She quickly gained notoriety by partaking in a modeling career, which featured highlights such as appearances in Maxim as well as being named both the official Miller Lite NASCAR Poster Girl and Red Bull’s motocross spokes model. Despite the success, Perry found the profession to be rather boring and uninspiring as she wanted something a bit more active. From there, she took up acting and continued her training in dance, appearing in films such as Pitch Perfect, television shows like The Real Housewives of Atlanta and Millionaire Matchmaker, and even dancing alongside stars like Usher, Keri Hilson and Pink. That brings us to the current year, where it was revealed CJ was a part of the aforementioned Los Angeles Diva tryout camp back in March to find a newbie pair of future WWE females to star in upcoming reality show, Total Divas. As stated, although she didn’t emerge victorious in that race, CJ was swooped up by the company and placed in NXT where she currently manages Alexander Rusev under the ring name of Lana. Referring to herself as NXT’s “Ice Queen”, Lana continues to up her profile each and every time she’s featured, and it only seems to be a matter of time before she, herself, is in the ring alongside Alexander instead of standing on the outside.

Photo: Lana/Instagram
Photo: Lana/Instagram

Why we chose her: Going forward, we plan on dedicating one spot each year to the Divas of NXT. If you haven’t noticed as of late, WWE has been hiring quite a lot of Divas that have reported to NXT. However, Lana remains to be one of the very few that has already skyrocketed onto making TV appearances and actually having a role set in stone alongside Alexander Rusev. Sure, she’s not hit the ring just yet given how new she is, but her charisma and stage presence speaks for itself. In fact, it has already helped her to cement quite the first impression in a division that certainly doesn’t lack in Divas that make large impacts on the fans. Given that it takes most female signees who don’t join already having a background on the independent scene quite a long time to make their televised debut, we feel that Lana has already received quite the unique jump on her competition in the year 2013. Given how much her star is rising thus far, we can only assume 2014 will be an even bigger milestone in her career, and thus we have named her one of five women to watch out for in the coming twelve months. All hail the Ice Queen indeed!

Follow Lana on Twitter: @LanaWWE.

PREVIOUSLY: Candice LeRae

WWE Main Event Redux (December 18th, 2013): AJ and Kaitlyn Deliver an Early Christmas Present

Jack
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WWE Main Event Redux (December 18th, 2013): AJ and Kaitlyn Deliver an Early Christmas Present

What’s up Diva fans and welcome to this week’s Main Event Redux. Fresh off her two consecutive victories over Aksana on Superstars, Kaitlyn has been promoted to Main Event this week and her opponent? None other than the thorn in her side for the majority of 2013, the WWE Divas Champion AJ Lee. Since defeating Kaitlyn, AJ has managed to thwart all other challengers that have stood in her way. Can Kaitlyn get a win this week to put herself back at the top of the hierarchy? There’s only one way to find out…

TO THE VIDEO!

Out first this week to be introduced in lackluster fashion by Tony Chimel is AJ Lee, who looks so smug after her victories at TLC and Raw. Tamina Snuka is by her side (not that Tony is bothered). After a Royal Rumble sponsor that got me far too excited for January, Kaitlyn struts her way to the ring next, doing her NFL hand gestures of whatever they are. In my quest to find out what she’s doing, I’ve thought that maybe it’s her own secret language that her and the 8th Militia use to speak with. Or maybe not.

The match starts with AJ locking herself around Kaitlyn’s midsection before the Houston, Texas native throws her off. Kaitlyn goes for a headlock, which AJ slithers out of before grasping Kaitlyn’s waist again. A standing switch occurs and Kaitlyn shows off her wrestling basics, taking AJ to the mat and going for a quick cover. AJ applies a side headlock but Kaitlyn shrugs her off, hits a shoulder block and goes for another cover. The long-time rivals then lock eyes before AJ slaps Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn scares AJ, who runs towards the ropes, but Kaitlyn grabs AJ’s (better) jorts and clotheslines her. The NXT Season 3 winner then whips AJ into the corner yet gets kicked in the face for her troubles. AJ catapults off the middle rope yet Kaitlyn catches her mid-air. Kaitlyn looks to try and go for a running powerslam but AJ wriggles out of danger for a second before being knocked to the floor by a stiff elbow.

Momentum starts to shift AJ’s way as she trips Kaitlyn face first into the second turnbuckle. The Divas Champion then snapmares her foe before applying a sleeper. Kaitlyn eventually gets to her feet yet AJ quickly shuts her down. AJ nonchalantly works over Kaitlyn in the corner before skipping in the way that only she can. AJ charges at Kaitlyn in the corner and the Hybrid Diva averts the assault and tries to start one of her own. Kaitlyn hits AJ with an elbow and just when you think Kaitlyn might be on the up, AJ ducks a clothesline and locks in a stunning reverse dragon sleeper. Alex Riley is normally great at the announce booth yet he can’t see the difference between this and the Black Widow. OH THE SHAME!

After dropping to her knees, Kaitlyn finds a way to get back to her feet and break the submission hold yet AJ jumps right back on her, this time utilizing a sleeper hold with body scissors. Kaitlyn powers AJ off of her yet again but AJ delivers two knees to the back to send Kaitlyn to the canvas. AJ then spin kicks Kaitlyn in her gut but Kaitlyn finds a way to find get some breathing space, hitting a nice backbreaker on the Divas Champion.

Business starts to pick up for Kaitlyn, who hits two clotheslines and a thrashing shoulder tackle. I don’t know why Kaitlyn ever does that as logically, she could just hit a Spear there, but nevermind! Kaitlyn goes for a cover yet she can only muster a two count. Kaitlyn whips AJ, the latter of which kicks the former in the face. Kaitlyn rebounds though by hitting a dropkick that I’m sure Brie Bella is laughing at somewhere. Kaitlyn hoists AJ up ready for her patented gutbuster yet after a distraction from Tamina on the apron, AJ reverses the gutbuster attempt into the real Black Widow, forcing Kaitlyn to tap out.

Thoughts: How nice was the ending to the match? Although people are sick of Tamina interfering and AJ using the Black Widow to win, this was a fresh way of pulling both of those typical trump cards off. Tamina getting involved all the time is by far better than her just standing there doing nothing and I honestly don’t get why people complain. Tamina is a bodyguard for AJ who is a cowardly heel, so their tactics make perfect sense.

Kaitlyn did rather well in this match and it’s obvious she has tons more chemistry with AJ than she ever will with Aksana. That’s why I didn’t mind seeing AJ vs Kaitlyn again. It was the WWE’s best feud of the year and it was a nice way to end 2013 by throwing back to the Spring. The match was short and sweet and was a nice early Christmas present for sure. And with that, stay tuned, Jack will be back!

Picture of the Day: The Divas Spread Some Holiday Cheer

Bobby
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Picture of the Day: The Divas Spread Some Holiday Cheer

Christmas is right around the corner (just next week in fact!) and what better way to get in the spirit than by seeing some of the festive Christmas costumes donned by our WWE Divas?

Natalya, Aksana, Eva Marie, Vickie Guerrero, Naomi, Summer Rae, Cameron, Nikki and Brie Bella took some time out of their busy schedules to snap a picture alongside good old Saint Nick himself – Santa Claus!

The photo was posted on Cameron’s Twitter page:

So, loyal readers, which Diva shown above is sporting your favorite look?

WWE Superstars Spoilers: December 27th, 2013

Erin
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WWE Superstars Spoilers: December 27th, 2013

Below are spoilers for next week’s edition of WWE Superstars:

Spoiler
* Natalya defeated Aksana. Natty made Aksana tap to the Sharpshooter. Noel said Natty was pretty over and Aksana drew good heat. (Source)

SmackDown Spoilers: December 20th, 2013

Erin
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0
SmackDown Spoilers: December 20th, 2013

Below are spoilers for this Friday’s edition of SmackDown:

Spoiler
* Brie Bella vs. Tamina Snuka is next. AJ Lee is on commentary and Nikki Bella is at ringside. Brie defeated Tamina in a sloppy finish. After the match, Brie approached the announcers table and shoved AJ.

* Brodus Clay comes out with no music to face Tensai. Tensai got the win when Xavier Woods, Cameron and Naomi came out to interrupt. After the match, Brodus attacks Tensai and Xavier makes the save.

(Source)

WWE Main Event Viewing: December 18th, 2013

Erin
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0
WWE Main Event Viewing: December 18th, 2013

There’s Divas action on tonight’s WWE Main Event! Tune in at 8pm ET on ION Television.

Discuss the show in the comments!

RELATED: WWE Main Event Spoilers: December 18th, 2013

The Five to Watch 2013: Candice LeRae

Kate
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The Five to Watch 2013: Candice LeRae

Welcome to Diva Dirt’s Five to Watch 2013! This annual list compiles five rising talents in the world of women’s wrestling that we think have what it takes to be the next big thing.

RELATED: Diva Dirt’s Five to Watch Class of 2012

From their in-ring abilities to their unique personalities, we aim to spotlight some of the upcoming female talent that you may not yet know about. Over the next five days, we will unveil the names that the Diva Dirt staff have handpicked.

ONE TO WATCH: CANDICE LERAE

Who is she?: Originally hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba, this nerdy blonde Canadian has called California home for many years. You may recognize Candice LeRae from a recent appearance on Impact Wrestling, where she answered Knockouts Champion Gail Kim’s open challenge, just coming up short but turning a lot of heads her way in the process.

Photo: Candice LeRae/Twitter
Photo: Candice LeRae/Twitter

Her story so far: Trained by the likes of Bill Anderson, Jesse Hernandez and Puma, Candice made her professional wrestling debut in 2002. The “Canadian Goddess” wrestled around California for the likes of Empire Wrestling Federation and All Pro Wrestling, but it was when she began appearing for Pro Wrestling Guerrilla that she really started to come into her own and established herself. One of her most prominent storylines in the company took place in 2007 and involved being beaten and bullied by the wrestler she managed, Human Tornado, until she finally stood up for herself. She would also form a partnership with Chris Hero during this time. LeRae was a constant in PWG for many years – accepting challenges from many men and women alike – and would show off an intensity and tenacity that was unparalleled by women in California at the time.

Over the years, Candice also formed a love-hate relationship with Joey Ryan, who had a tendency to “Boobplex” her at any chance he got, until she found a vicious counter: the “Ballsplex”. Their relationship currently rests on the “love” side of things, as the two have now formed a very successful tag team. The pair has also started their own YouTube show, cleverly titled The Candice & Joey Show, which follows their adventures wrestling around the country.

In 2013, Candice has made her debut for many a notable promotion – Beyond Wrestling, SMASH, Combat Zone Wrestling, Ohio Valley Wrestling and Family Wrestling Entertainment – and her work has garnered her much positive attention from the wrestling community, resulting in a TNA tryout, and later appearance on television.

Photo: Candice LeRae/Twitter
Photo: Candice LeRae/Twitter

Why we chose her: Candice LeRae has always been a fixture on the independent circuit, but it was 2013 where she really shone. The feisty young wrestler is constantly striving to improve and work on both her skills and her look and it is truly paying off for her. Her breathtaking agility and daring is entertaining people by the day, capturing the attention of many new independent promotions and landing her on the radar of the number two wrestling company in America. Candice is sure to go places in 2014 – we don’t doubt that she’ll be mixing it up in one of the top all-female promotions in the very near future.

Follow Candice on Twitter: @CandiceLeRae.

Where Are They Now?: Lauren Mayhew, Actor/Singer and Former WWE Announcer

Jack
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Where Are They Now?: Lauren Mayhew, Actor/Singer and Former WWE Announcer

Diva Dirt is debuting a new interview series, Where Are They Now?, in which we will speak with former women of wrestling about their past, present and future.

In the first interview of the series, Diva Dirt’s Jack speaks with former WWE announcer Lauren Mayhew.

Lauren was with the WWE only briefly, but has a colorful career outside of the wrestling business. A singer and actor, Lauren has recently released a single, “One More Try”, that’s getting play on radio stations across the country.

She’s also landed plenty of acting gigs, appearing on an episode of the hit series Dexter.

Lauren talks to us about her time with the WWE, her singing and acting career and if there might be a return to wrestling in her future.
 
Listen below or download by right clicking here.

[yendifplayer audio=7]
 
Follow Lauren on Twitter: @LCMayhew.

Watch the music video for Lauren’s single “One More Try” below:

Who do you want to see interviewed for Where Are They Now? Let us know!

Raw Spoilers: December 23rd, 2013

Erin
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Raw Spoilers: December 23rd, 2013

The WWE taped next Monday’s Raw tonight in Austin, Texas. Spoilers below:

Spoiler
* The first match is a 12 Divas Jingle Bells match with Eva Marie, Natalya, The Bella Twins, Cameron and Naomi vs. Aksana, Alicia Fox, Tamina Snuka, Kaityln, Vickie and Summer Rae. Natalya gets the win for her team with a Sharpshooter on Aksana.

(Source)

WWE Main Event Spoilers: December 18th, 2013

Erin
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WWE Main Event Spoilers: December 18th, 2013

The following spoilers were taped earlier tonight for tomorrow’s edition of WWE Main Event:

Spoiler
* AJ Lee makes her way out to face Kaitlyn. AJ gets the win with the Black Widow.

(Source)

Video: AJ Lee Welcomes New Challengers to the Divas Title

Erin
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Video: AJ Lee Welcomes New Challengers to the Divas Title

After defeating the latest challenger to her Divas Championship, AJ Lee (with Tamina Snuka) spoke to Josh Mathews on the WWE App last night, marking the six month anniversary of her title win at Payback.

She says she’s beaten every challenger she’s come across, proving that no one can touch her.

AJ’s not sure where she can go from now, having been so dominant. She invites “any sort of Diva” to stand up to her and try to unseat her.

Watch the interview below:

Do you think the WWE will bring in a new Diva to challenge AJ?

Raw Redux (December 16th, 2013): Ain’t That a Kick in the Head?

Cryssi
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Raw Redux (December 16th, 2013): Ain’t That a Kick in the Head?

Busy weekend for moi, but let me start by saying the match at TLC between AJ Lee and Natalya was amazing. I hate that I didn’t get a chance to recap it or even get a prediction sent in, but it was everything I thought it would be. We know what these two women are capable of and they were beautiful together this past Sunday night. I was fairly certain AJ would retain and despite this reign not being my favorite, I didn’t feel like the title needed to go to Natalya. AJ has held the title for so long now, that they may as well let Maryse‘s record get broken by her.

I was curious to see if the momentum from TLC would carry over to Raw, and it kind of did. We got a six-Diva tag team match, some drama with Tons of Funk, and a Summer Rae appearance, and lots of Stephanie McMahon. The Stephanie stuff wasn’t really anything special. She just continues to exert her authority role and play her character really well. Obviously the McMahons were on a high last night because their man managed to become the Undisputed Champion of the WWE, or whatever Randy Orton‘s official title is these days. I don’t even know anymore because I kind of ignore most things that aren’t Diva related. But regardless, Stephanie slays and I can’t say enough that I am so glad she decided to return as a full-time character.

Stephanie has all those qualities about her that you just can’t teach and I realize a lot of it probably has to do with the fact she was raised around the business. But regardless, charisma, character presence, and passion isn’t really able to be taught and it’s so rare to find those qualities in a strong female personality these days. Someone who wasn’t really raised around wrestling but has the it factor is Summer Rae. She’s definitely my one to watch for 2014. She continues to do all the little things right and last night was no exception. Her role was minor, as she was just at ringside to support Fandango against former Raw Redux favorite Dolph Ziggler, but she sparkled.

If Summer isn’t the new “it” girl of the division for 2014, I will be so, so shocked. Almost every match she has had since coming to the main roster has been spot on, and her body of work as a whole just speaks for itself. I would love to see her challenge for the belt, no matter who has it, and eventually end up as champion.

This girl is so, so good.

The best part of Raw, and probably my favorite was the drama between Brodus Clay, Tensai, Naomi and Cameron. Our sassy Total Divas stars were left without anyone to dance with at the end of the match, but there were two people who were more than willing to step in.

Okay, I can’t stand R-Truth, but Xavier Woods is kind of sexy. If he wants to get involved with either Naomi or Cameron, then I totally ship it. In fact, I don’t just ship it, I support it one-hundred and fifty million percent. I’m kind of thinking that maybe Xavier Woods was the love angle Jimmy Uso decided to c*** block, and if so, I’m glad it didn’t work. I would love to see Xavier and Naomi be a thing, because I definitely think they would be super hot together.

I just hope it is Xavier… Naomi and R-Truth would just be… ewwwww, haha.

Nikki Bella didn’t have an “ew” moment last night, but she definitely had an “ow” moment. During the tag match which pitted Nikki, Brie and Natalya against AJ, Alicia Fox and Tamina< Snuka, Tamina absolutely knocked the snot out of Nikki, no pun intended.

Ouch.

That kick was a little too stiff in my opinion and judging from Nikki’s Instagram picture of a bloody towel, it was probably a little too much for her as well. After seeing that kick, nothing else in the match really mattered because really, that is the only thing to talk about. Not sure who AJ’s next challenger will be, but Nikki could be the likely candidate if she doesn’t have a broken nose. I’m curious, to be honest. AJ has ran through the rest of the competition and I don’t want to see her feud with Tamina.

Once again the Divas division is left in limbo and next month officially kicks off WrestleMania season with the Royal Rumble. Like I say time and time again, that’s not the best time of the year to be a Diva, but with everything kind of taking off this year and the popularity all the girls have gained, we will have to see how it goes.

I’m going to wrap this up now and get back to work, but have no fear, I’ll be back and be super sassy next time ;-) Namaste!

Video: Brooke Twerks for TMZ

Erin
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Video: Brooke Twerks for TMZ

Brooke‘s twerking skills have landed her on TMZ, as video has surfaced of her and TNA colleague Robbie E. doing the dance at LAX.

TMZ says this was all the result of a bet: Brooke bet Robbie that he couldn’t take four straight shots of tequila in three minutes without throwing up. Needless to say, he lost the bet, resulting in this public display of twerking.

Watch the video below:

Maxim Releases Hot 100 Fan Vote Selections: Eva Marie, Stacy Keibler Included

Bobby
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Maxim Releases Hot 100 Fan Vote Selections: Eva Marie, Stacy Keibler Included

Maxim has officially unveiled the options for this year’s fan-voted Hot 100 countdown, and included in the choices are both a current and former WWE Diva: Total Divas star Eva Marie and Stacy Keibler.

In addition to the two official selections, write-in votes are also accepted, so fans are given the option to submit their chosen name for contention as well.

You can vote for Eva, Stacy or a write-in on Maxim.com. Voting is allowed once every 24 hours, so be sure to help some female wrestlers place high on the list!

‘Total Divas’ Viewership Rises Despite TLC Competition: 1.3 Million Viewers

Bobby
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‘Total Divas’ Viewership Rises Despite TLC Competition: 1.3 Million Viewers

In what can certainly be seen as a surprise, this week’s season finale of Total Divas drew 1.3 million viewers, up from the 1.2 for last week’s episode.

Of course, the reason for the surprise is that the finale aired opposite one of WWE’s own Pay-Per-View events, TLC. Going head-to-head with PPVs has proven to hurt the reality show each time in the past, even when they had the aid of Keeping Up with the Kardashians for lead-in support.

In the coveted 18-49 year old demo, Total Divas did drop a tad from the 0.7 last week to a 0.6, but never fear, as that number doesn’t even match the show’s series low in the demographic.

For an E! program that is now standing on its own two feet, so to speak, that’s very good news.

Videos: Mickie vs. Ivelisse, Tapa vs. Hannah from TNA World Cup of Wrestling

Erin
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Videos: Mickie vs. Ivelisse, Tapa vs. Hannah from TNA World Cup of Wrestling

A few weeks ago, TNA released its latest One Night Only Pay-Per-View, the World Cup of Wrestling.

Video has now emerged online of the night’s Knockouts matches, which saw Mickie James take on Ivelisse Velez and Lei’D Tapa face Hannah Blossom.

Watch the matches below:

What did you think of the matches?

Video: WWE Divas and Superstars Wish You Happy Holidays

Erin
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Video: WWE Divas and Superstars Wish You Happy Holidays

With Christmas just around the corner, the WWE has released a festive video showing a number of its Superstars and Divas putting on their best smiles, all in the effort of wishing the WWE Universe happy holidays.

It all culminates in a Brady Bunch-style shot of everyone looking positively jolly.

Watch the video below:

Which Divas can you spot?

Diva Dirt Weekly for the Week Ending December 16th, 2013

Erin
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Diva Dirt Weekly for the Week Ending December 16th, 2013

Each week following Raw, Diva Dirt Weekly will take a look back at the week preceding it, hitting every noteworthy event along the way, from Impact Wrestling to SmackDown to Raw.

Joining the audio will be team members Chris, Erin and our host Jake.

We cover the following events:

  • Impact Wrestling (12/12/13): Madison Rayne returns to TNA.
  • The AJ Lee/Michelle Beadle controversy.
  • WWE TLC (12/15/13): AJ retains the Divas Title against Natalya. What can the WWE do to freshen up AJ’s character?
  • Total Divas, Episode 14: “Ready to Ride”
  • Raw (12/16/13): Natalya, Brie and Nikki Bella lose to AJ, Alicia Fox and Tamina Snuka. Will Nikki be the next Diva to challenge AJ?

 
Listen below or download by right clicking here.

[yendifplayer audio=8]
 
Want to advertise on Diva Dirt Weekly? Contact us!

Another NXT Diva Debuts New Name

Erin
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Another NXT Diva Debuts New Name

Closely following Leah Van Damme‘s switch to a new name, fellow NXT Diva Ashley Sebera has revealed her own new moniker.

Ashley, who reported to NXT in November, will now be going by the name Dana Brooke, as evidenced by her tweet:

Welcome, Dana!

What do you think of Ashley’s new name?

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