Two weeks ago, Vince McMahon mercifully pulled the plug on his vision of Extreme Championship Wrestling. The show would be replaced by WWE NXT, which would pair eight rookies with eight established stars. At the end of the run, one would receive a WWE contract. It’s an interesting idea, but like everything WWE produces these days, it is a flawed concept. I tend to be pessimistic about McMahonland, so let’s start with what works.
- Emphasis on Wrestling: Goofy skits are kept to a minimum and the rookies are allowed to show their skills. Bryan Danielson and Chris Jericho had the best WWE TV match of the year, and the fans completely bought into it.
- Vignettes: The WWE has always excelled at introducing new faces this way. Each rookie introduced himself and gave a bit of background information.
- Different Camera Angles: The camera near the announce table gives it the feel of an old Madison Square Garden house show.
- Christian as a Mentor: It’s the perfect role for him at this point in his career. He is still involved, and has a chance to put someone over.
- Chris Jericho as a Mentor: See above, but with a strong Harley Race vibe.
And the flaws:
- Matt Stryker as Backstage Interviewer: Matt Stryker is the most knowledgeable broadcaster in the company that isn’t named Jim Ross, so having him do play by play makes too much sense.
- Heel Michael Cole: I don’t care how many snarky remarks he makes about the internet and Ring of Honor, Michael Cole is about as threatening as a box of Girl Scout Cookies.
- The Constant Ring of Honor Bashing: This would hold a lot more water if Vince hadn’t raided their roster. He’s going after the Briscoe Brothers next.
- The Rookies Coming Out to Their Mentors’ Music: Aren’t the rookies supposed to have their own identity?
- “Daniel Bryan;” Can he be “The American Dragon” Bryan Danielson instead? Please?! PLEASE?!
- That Cowboy Guy: Unless they bring back Barry Windham’s awesome lone wolf persona, the cowboy gimmick is no longer relevant.
- Matt Hardy’s Girth: Jesus Christ dude, put on a shirt.
NXT is the best idea Vince McMahon has had in a long time. It looks like they are positioning Danielson to win, which is a smart move. Hopefully Vince keeps his promise and uses the show to get the next generation started. The main event scene is stretched really thin, and The H and Batista won’t be around much longer.
Seriously though, why can’t Bryan Danielson be Bryan Danielson?