C.M. Punk def. Daniel Bryan
What I Liked:
What could you not like in this match? They delivered in all aspects, especially submission and traditional mat wrestling. I simply was in awe to see how many reversals, counters, quick pins, and offensive creativity they displayed. I absolutely love when Bryan has the upper hand and can make simple knees to the chest look painful. He also brought out some great submission moves, including an absolutely amazing Surfboard Stretch, which followed with Bryan grabbing and bending Punk’s body between his arms. This was a fantastic bout that reminds everyone why both of these guys are at the top of the roster for a reason. The crowd was into this match the whole time, including a “This is awesome” chant that really had Twitter going. The timing of the match was excellent because they were not rushed in accomplishing what they wanted to do, and that was tell a story in the ring. Many people wondered why so fast and why not build a storyline with these two guys? It is simple, they do not need months of build to pull of a great match. Also, the ending with Punk tapping out a second after he pinned Bryan will let these guys continue their feud, potentially with AJ involved somehow as we saw her backstage. Lastly, my prediction needs to be a Submission Match or I Quit at No Way Out to finalize the feud here. Maybe they can carry it until Money in the Bank, where both guys have thrived before.
Grade: A+
Ryback def. Camacho
What I Liked:
There is not much to like here that he have not seen before. I like Ryback, and think he has a bright future in the WWE. His size, speed, and overall look will help him do good things.
What I Disliked:
How many squash matches can we see? It shows you how larthargic and boring the creative team is when they debut new guys. Give me something more here, as I simply could care less about this pairing. Who, besides the diehard fans who watch Smackdown every week, knew who Camacho was?
Grade: D-
