The Midcard Matches of Wrestlemania
Mark Henry defeated The Uso's in a complete squash match. Henry hit his finisher and was built up how they need him to. I wish he talked a little more in this feud and road to Wrestlemania, but they have 3 other matches that all they really do is talk. Ryback defeated 3MB in same fashion. He hit multiple spinebusters and then hit Mahal and Slater with a Shell Shocked. Once again, they are so limited in what to do with these two guys from week to week. We know the match is going to be slow and punishing for both men. We know that Ryback will get a big spot and that Henry is a great opponent for him. It can only do good things for Ryback. His strength is his strength, if that makes sense.
Grade: C
The Miz defeated Wade Barrett in a really good match. They had good pacing, solid in ring skill, and made Miz look stronger than the past few weeks. I am not sure why they are going in this direction for each guy. Barrett is not COMPLETELY over as a big time heel and Miz is not even close to being a huge face for this company. That is why they can put on good matches but the crowd will still tune out from them. If they face at Wrestlemania for the Intercontinental Championship, they need to have it a gimmick match. I would prefer a Ladder Match.
Grade: B
Antonio Cesaro defeated Alberto Del Rio Via Countout. Cesaro picks up the win after getting little offense in. Del Rio is still not getting a huge reaction from the crowd, which is bothersome to me. They continue to put so much time and effort into him, but it could be for naught. Swagger comes out and attacks Ricardo once again, which lights a fire under Del Rio. He ends up fighting Swagger off and hitting a picture perfect kick to his face. If you get a chance to watch it again, rewind it and enjoy. That is what Del Rio does best. He is so precise in the moves that he has executed. I really am enjoying him in the ring, but worry about how he cannot get over consistently. I will not be shocked if the NY/NJ crowd cheers Swagger.
Grade: B-
