Opening Segment:
Bobby Roode comes out cocky and arrogant following his win at Against All Odds. He talks about Sting trying to screw him out of the title. He says that Sting helped Roode overcome three men to retain the title. Sting makes his way out, in which he talks about letting his anger overcome himself. He says Jeff Hardy got screwed, and he wants Roode to be a fighting champion. He books no DQ, no time limit for the World Title next!
What I Liked:
I am a big supporter and fan of Roode and his evolution with becoming the World Heavyweight Champion. He is great on the microphone, continuing to show his meaning in TNA. He is a guy who is continuously making his stock so much better by speaking as a different and unique heel. I like how the night starts off big as well, giving the crowd an easy way to get into the show for tonight.
What I Disliked:
I wonder when Sting will want to face off against Roode. I feel like this story will continue until Roode has basically beaten everyone. Do I want to see Sting vs. Roode? I am not sure right now because I am getting too familiar with Sting outside of the ring. I feel like every match he fights from here on out should be for nostalgia and not the championship. He does not need to prove that part of his career anymore, much like The Undertaker.
Grade: B+
Bobby Roode def. Jeff Hardy to retain the World Heavyweight Championship:
What I Liked:
A great start to the night, showcasing their best talent. Roode had a more phsyical approach, but I loved how Hardy was able to counter it with his speed and athleticism. Hardy on the attack early was the perfect way for the match to gain steam. He flew over the top rope and connected perfectly onto Roode. The match did not make Hardy look weak, nor made Roode look weak. Both men worked well together, flowed, and hit every spot in the match. Great differences in the ring combined with veteran presence. Well done by everyone.
What I Disliked:
Kurt Angle attacks Jeff Hardy. I really did not understand this, besides not having Hardy lose clean and continue to be really relevant without holding the World Heavyweight Championship. Angle and Hardy can have a great feud, talk about their past experiences, and blossom into a good match at a major pay per view. I fear that all it will do is lack logic and sensibility. Does it make sense for your two most established stars, both who are always crowd favorites because of their history and success, to face one another at this point in TNA?
Grade: A-
Backstage, Roode is bragging about his win. Sting books James Storm vs. Bully Ray in a Number 1 Contenders match for later tonight.
