Backstage we get Teddy Long with Santino and Kofi. Ryder comes in to state his case to be on Teddy's team. He tries to convince him with Hornswoggle as the mascot, but it is The Great Khali coming in to get Long to agree. We add Ryder and Khali with Santino, Truth, and Kofi.
I obviously agree with Ryder, not so much with Khali. I understand they want to use the visual of size to match up with Henry, even though Khali lost to Rhodes a week ago. There is where you find the hole in logic. Either way, it was expected and really is a good fit for Long. My bet is Mysterio is announced at Mania.
AJ def. Brie Bella:
What I Liked;
Seeing Bryan celebrate like he won, as he is growing on me with his arrogance. It is different. AJ is a good athlete and is benefitting from the exposure. I wonder why she is fighting heels each week. What is the point?
What I Disliked:
You get the exposure, but the main was not good. It was rushed, botchy, and really did not emphasize on anyone besides Bryan.
Grade: C-
Zack Ryder def. Jack Swagger:
What I Liked:
A solid pairing between the two with history. The match was very good, sound, and focused on Swagger's ability to carry someone. He took the offensive early and often until Ryder overcame it with his unique style. The powerbomb onto the turnbuckle from Swagger looks very painful. Well done by Ryder selling it as well. His acting in the ring is great, never too much overselling to make it look corny. Nice usage of outside distraction so Swagger's loss doesn't look too bad. Ryder finishes him off thanks to Hornswoggle's interference.
What I Disliked:
Please do not have Vickie or Hornswoggle decide the outcome to Teddy vs. Johnny. Don't you see this happening on the big stage, instead of a guy like Ziggler or Ryder doing something important. The match was very good, but I think of the long term success and wonder where do these guys go after Mania? I do feel like Swagger would be better utilized as a face. He has the American look, similar to how Kurt Angle got over in the WWE with the crowd.
Grade: B+
