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chloewatcheswrestling · 7 months

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Wrestling Love Letters

The Ring General: Reigning after Roman.

Gunther's journey as the Intercontinental Champion is now etched in the history books, securing him the esteemed title of 'longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion of all time.' Yet, as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, paving the way for even greater achievements. But how do you book the end of such an epic run without harming the dominance and significance of this championship reign? Gunther has ran through the majority of the superstars the WWE roster has to offer, so let’s explore a path for Gunther to ascend to the pinnacle of the wrestling world, cementing his legacy as a world title holder.

With a reign nearing 500 days (at the time of writing), Gunther undeniably deserves a shot at the top title. His longevity as Intercontinental Champion gives him a claim superior to many on the roster. In a previous blog post, I explored why I’m backing Shinsuke Nakamura to take the World Heavyweight Championship from Seth Rollins but, as a future feud, Gunther doesn’t seem the right fit here. Shinsuke would be a fresh champion with his own reign to cement and whilst I love a villain vs villain clash, this one doesn’t seem fitting.

Doesn’t Roman Reigns vs Gunther for the WWE Universal Championship at Wrestlemania XL (2024) sound appropriate for the longest reigning IC champion of all time? Champion vs Champion? Tribal Chief vs Ring General? Now that’s a Wrestlemania main event.

With Roman currently taking a break, WWE has some time to manipulate the moving parts in this potential matchup. Maybe they could continue to add fuel to the fire of the Giovanni Vinci storyline and identify Vinci as a pivotal figure in Gunther's journey moving forward. The Triple H era has seen the re-emergence of faction-based storytelling but, recently, every faction seems to be experiencing turbulence. Imperium should be portrayed as an impenetrable fortress, a united force that remains dominant and cohesive. Amidst the descent in the other factions on television, Imperium should stand tall, keeping their internal conflicts off-screen and projecting an aura of strength. At Wrestlemania, Vinci could have the opportunity to prove his loyalty to Gunther and Imperium and play a crucial role in Gunther emerging victorious, further solidifying their alliance. Perhaps intercepting a Solo Sikoa run in? Or perhaps putting himself in the path of a superman punch?

To prevent another instance of a champion holding multiple belts, Gunther should make a significant announcement. Given the lack of formidable contenders for his Intercontinental Championship, he was forced to explore new horizons. Gunther will be relinquishing the IC belt to focus on establishing a historic reign with the Universal Championship.

The future of the IC title could be determined by a tournament that features hungry and determined competitors. This not only showcases the talented WWE roster but also ensures that the next champion feels like they have truly earnt their place. This could be a great time to showcase all the talent that have come up short against Gunther but who still remain worthy contenders, roster members who deserve title shots but have been overlooked and perhaps even some hungry NXT stars.

Now, picture this: Gunther, seated at ringside in a sharp suit, proudly draping the Universal Championship over his shoulder. The Intercontinental Championship sits on a silk-covered platform, flanked by Ludwig and Giovanni. The tournament unfolds each week, with Imperium observing, analysing, and critiquing the suitability of the competitors.

For the brackets, after much consideration—taking into account Sheamus's injury and other superstars tied up in different storylines—I settled on a mix of suitable contenders. When it comes to showcasing NXT stars, while Ilja is a personal favourite, Carmelo Hayes or Bron Breakker would also shine in this spotlight.

As for the winner, recognizing that LA Knight is a huge fan favourite, my vision for the IC title aligns more with Drew McIntyre. It presents Drew with a well deserved opportunity for a dominant championship run playing out in front of real life crowds.

The legacy of Gunther's historic Intercontinental Championship reign will undoubtedly leave an enduring mark on the sport, setting the tone for an exciting new era and setting the stage for another unforgettable chapter in WWE history.

With pins, submissions, and a whole lot of heart, Chloe xoxo

05.10.2023

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chloewatcheswrestling · 8 months

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Wrestling Love Letters

Intrigue and Mastery: A Traditional Japanese Villain Emerges

Shinsuke Nakamura, the former three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion, a man who's won the prestigious 2011 G1 Climax and the 2014 New Japan Cup, was also the founding member of the stable 'Chaos' (currently led by Kazuchika Okada), cemented his status as a true wrestling icon long ago. The King of Strong Style's journey through the world of professional wrestling has been nothing short of remarkable but, up until recently, he's been cruising along living the 'future hall of famer' life.

Shinsuke has always been able to capture the hearts of fans with his charismatic presence. Whether it's his infectious smile, his captivating entrance music that gets the crowd singing, or his unique in-ring style, Nakamura has always been a fan favourite. However, in recent times, it felt like something was missing. It seemed as though we hadn't seen a certain side of Shinsuke, and he was merely showing up to give us his best professional babyface performance without being a viable contender for a title or someone we eagerly anticipated seeing at the top of the card.

A contributing factor to this feeling was WWE's insistence on having Nakamura communicate primarily in English, limiting his ability to cut compelling promos. Despite this, he compensated adeptly with his eccentric and exaggerated facial expressions, which effectively conveyed his emotions when the scripts fell short. This issue isn't unique to Nakamura; it extends to other Japanese wrestlers, including Asuka and Iyo Sky, who also both occupy prominent positions on the roster and the women's title scene.

Then came the game-changing moment - Nakamura's heel turn on Monday Night Raw (August 7th, 2023) and subsequent promo the following week. The promo involved a clever twist: Nakamura initially speaking in English, pausing to contemplate his next words, only to dismiss the need for understanding from the crowd or his opponent and seamlessly transitioning to Japanese. It was as if the man brimming with charm had unearthed an entirely new reservoir of charisma.

For someone who has tried and failed to learn Japanese, witnessing Nakamura speak his native language with such animation was truly enchanting. It was as if he'd finally been allowed to show his true self and was running with that opportunity. His animated facial expressions, body language and impassioned delivery made it almost feel as though you comprehended his words, even if you couldn't speak a word of Japanese. This change demonstrated that the WWE audience don't always require spoon-fed storylines to grasp a narrative.

Shinsuke complimented his change in character with a slight tweak in his appearance, now wearing dark kimono-inspired outfits, evoking the classic Japanese villain archetype. This archetype typically pits the villain against a heroic protagonist, in this case, the baby face Seth Rollins. The hero-villain dynamic, central to many Japanese narratives like samurai epics and martial arts tales, usually unfolds with the villain displaying a complex relationship with the concept of honour and quite often they themselves were once a beloved hero. I initially questioned why it had taken so long for WWE to pull the trigger on this heel turn but soon realised that it may not have been as effective if acted on sooner.

Nakamura's decision to whisper a cryptic threat to Seth Rollins was a genius move to get the audience speculating what could have possibly been said (a wrestling storytelling technique reminiscent of Undertaker whispering to Bray Wyatt). And later revealing his knowledge of Seth's persistent back issues, ignited their feud brilliantly and played into the traditional Japanese villain traits of intelligence, cunning and manipulation. Following Payback 2023, the challenge was maintaining the momentum of this rivalry. Nakamura, adopting the quintessential villain role, goaded Seth to the point of Seth demanding a rematch, only for Nakamura to deny his request until he deemed the time is right. The calculated manipulation, marked by meticulous planning and tactics, exemplifies Nakamura's mastery of this character.

I'm confident I'm not alone in backing Shinsuke in this ongoing feud with Seth Rollins, I would love to see him have a heel run with the title, orchestrating the fate of the baby faces on the roster like a master puppeteer. While Rollins is a safe pair of hands, I'd like to see him drop down the card and confront the challenge of having to claw his way back up. This journey could infuse his character with a newfound intensity, potentially sowing the seed for a compelling character transformation. Nakamura has undoubtedly regained his cool factor, and it's high time for WWE to capitalise on this resurgence and explore fresh storytelling avenues.

With pins, submissions, and a whole lot of heart, Chloe xoxo

13.09.2023

#shinsuke nakamura #shinsuke #nakamura #seth rollins #wwe fandom #wweuniverse #wwe raw #wwe title #pro wrestling #pro wrestlers #japanese wrestling #heroes and villains #heel turn

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chloewatcheswrestling · 8 months

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Wrestling Love Letters

Fireflies in the Dark: A Tribute to Bray Wyatt

I wasn’t going to write today.

But then we lost Bray.

There are some performers who transcend the ring and become more than just athletes. Bray’s mystique and captivating storytelling, undoubtedly made him one of those figures. His unexpected passing has left our community mourning the loss of one of our great wrestling minds who managed to weave enchanting narratives that gripped wrestling fans worldwide.

Bray used the canvas like a true artist, painting his stories with the strokes of a genius. He was the cult leader I would have followed willingly, especially during an "era of lies" where authenticity seemed scarce. In moments when watching WWE grew challenging, his segments became my refuge – a place to immerse myself and search for hidden gems within his narrative. The most recent version of Bray walked down that ramp every week and relayed the same message, and yet, we were still right there, in the palm of his hands. This wasn't just charisma; it was a connection that few could forge. He was an inspiration to anyone who has lost their way, a guiding light amidst the darkness.

Many likened him to the Undertaker but, for me, he was this generations Mick Foley. A man of many faces, he was a unique fusion of wrestling brilliance and raw charisma. The juxtaposition of his eerie presence with a touch of humanity made him a character like few others. My favourite Bray, Firefly Funhouse Bray, was Mr. Rogers-esque, a blend of warmth and macabre that shouldn't have worked, but did – brilliantly.

The night he won the WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber (2017) is etched into my memory – a moment of triumph that stood as a testament to his talent and dedication. I can vividly recall the chills that ran down my spine as I witnessed The Fiend's debut at Summerslam (2019). The classic horror ambiance he effortlessly created became a hallmark of his performances. The Firefly Funhouse match vs John Cena (Wrestlemania 36, 2020) remains one of my favourites. It wasn't for everyone, but for those who understood its depth, it was a masterpiece. It was a match that came at a time where the world was shut down and we needed an escape from reality. Bray knew his audience – those loyal viewers who craved acknowledgment, who searched for Easter eggs and subtle nods (along with some not-so-subtle winks to camera, talking directly to his fans). Bray Wyatt dared to be bold. In a time when creativity often felt stifled, he fearlessly injected his character with veiled jabs at WWE creative. The Vince McMahon puppet with little devil horns was a testament to his audacity. He thrived on speculation and anticipation, drawing fans into conversations about the identities of the wrestlers behind the puppets and the possibility of a Wyatt Six faction. Bray was more than a performer; he was an architect of engagement.

Beyond his character, Windham was a person who was loved and respected. To his father Mike, his brother Bo, his wife Jojo, and to his children, my heart goes out. The Wyatt family, both the on-screen and off-screen versions, has suffered profound losses with the passing of Brodie and now Bray.

As I watched the tribute videos and teary messages this morning, I stumbled upon his return speech following Extreme Rules and the words he left us with, "This is a version of me that I’ve never got to introduce to you guys before, this is just me… being me, genuine me, for the first time." Those words echo a sentiment many can relate to – the search for authenticity in a world that often demands conformity.

To Bray, thank you for the stories, the captivating moments, the suspense, the pops, your unapologetic creativity and your beautiful mind and thank you, for being you. You always mattered to us and as the fireflies fade off screen, your legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of your fans worldwide.

With pins, submissions, and some tears,

Chloe xoxo

25.08.2023

“...I was in a time of need, and I lost people that were close to me, and I lost my self-confidence and I felt weak and I felt vulnerable. And in this weakest state I found your words Bray, I found your words…”

#braywyatt #wwe #wwe universe #wwe fandom #pro wrestlers #pro wrestling #wwe news #windham rotunda #fireflyfunhouse #thefiend #john cena #extreme rules #Summerslam #Wrestlemania #rip bray wyatt #wyatt family

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chloewatcheswrestling · 8 months

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Wrestling Love Letters

The Bloodline Series: An Unfinished Story

In the world of professional wrestling, the careful crafting of storylines is what keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Wrestlemania, the grandest stage of them all, is where these narratives reach their pinnacle. However, sometimes even the most compelling opportunities slip through the fingers of creative decision-makers, leaving fans disappointed and questioning what could have been.

Cody Rhodes, a name synonymous with wrestling legacy, emerged as the perfect contender to challenge Roman Reigns for one of his coveted championship belts at Wrestlemania 39 (2023). For fans, this wasn't just about crowning another champion; it was about concluding a narrative that had been evolving for years. More recently, viewers were engrossed by Cody's documentary, "American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes," and it became apparent that the climax of his journey (and subsequently, the documentary) should have culminated in a triumphant victory on the grandest stage of all. Taking the WWE Championship that his late father, Dusty Rhodes, never secured would have been the ultimate feel-good moment. Dusty was passed over for the title in favour of Macho Man Randy Savage, and regrettably, history appeared to repeat itself. Cody’s victory would have been a powerful tribute to his father's legacy whilst also strengthening his emotional connection with the audience.

But how could this have been executed without compromising Roman's reign? One solution lies in the storytelling itself. WWE could have refrained from putting both championship belts on the line, therefore allowing Cody to secure a monumental victory without diminishing Roman's position. This approach would have maintained the excitement of the story while preserving Roman's dominance. Moreover, Cody's victory could have been the start of a captivating downward spiral for Roman's character. Grappling to retain his remaining championship, Roman's increasing desperation could have led to him questioning the loyalty of those around him. This intriguing twist would have added layers to his character, making him more gripping and complex.

An additional consequence of WWE's creative decision was the necessity to introduce a new World Heavyweight title (currently held by the ever reliable Seth Rollins), as it was now evident that Roman was truly unbeatable, WWE had booked themselves into a corner where no one was a true threat. It's difficult not to assume that Cody was meant to be victorious at Wrestlemania, and a last-minute decision led to Roman's victory and, consequently, the introduction of a new title. Along similar lines, the once-menacing Money in the Bank briefcase has lost some of its suspense, as it's now evident that, if Cody couldn’t beat Roman Reigns, instilling confidence in a successful Damian Priest cash-in is going to be a challenge. Despite Damian having the support of the Judgement Day, Roman still remains strong with the remnants of the Bloodline, and with turmoil within both factions, the threat of the briefcase is being overshadowed.

Looking ahead, there's still an opportunity for WWE to rectify the situation. Rather than drawing out the Bloodline story with unnecessary twists, it's time to embrace the potential for evolution within the faction. An eagerly awaited feud between Jimmy and Jey Uso would provide a fresh storyline and further character development leading into Wrestlemania XL (2024). A feud between the brothers would captivate fans' attention, highlighting their individual strengths and motivations. Also the idea of the formation of a brother faction with Jimmy, Jey, and Solo against Roman would give fans something to rally behind.

Finally, the enigmatic Paul Heyman's role shouldn't be underestimated. To invigorate his character, Heyman could acquire a new protégé. This could be an opportunity to bring in a rising star from NXT (or mentor a recent call up), injecting new blood into the main roster while giving fans a fresh dynamic to invest in.

In the pro wrestling universe, missed opportunities can often become catalysts for a new and exciting direction. While Cody Rhodes' Wrestlemania victory would have been a fitting tribute to his legacy, the path not taken opens doors for future innovation and the potential for a new ending to Cody’s story.

With pins, submissions, and a whole lot of heart, Chloe xoxo

23.08.2023

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chloewatcheswrestling · 8 months

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Welcome to Chloe Watches Wrestling!

Hey lovelies! I'm Chloe, the wrestling fanatic behind this page. Since 2008, the world of pro wrestling has captured my heart and refused to let go. Not only am I a dedicated fan, but I also married a fellow wrestling enthusiast, and together we've shared our passion for 12 incredible years 🤍

Wrestling isn't just a pastime for me—it's my greatest passion in life. I've tasted the thrill from both sides of the ring—I took a shot at becoming a pro wrestler myself, dedicating six months to training before a collar bone injury set me on a different path. But every bump and bruise was worth the love and respect I have for this incredible sport!

At Chloe Watches Wrestling, I'm all about romanticizing wrestling—seeing it as the unique art form it truly is. This blog is a haven for all things wrestling, where we'll explore the heroes, the villains, the weird, and the wonderful…

As for my favourites, I'm drawn to the unconventional, the darkly charismatic, and the enchantingly different. Mick Foley, the master of multiple personas, holds a special place in my heart. Rhea Ripley, with her fierce intensity, captures my attention in the current wrestling landscape. And Bray Wyatt—the wrestling genius who creates stories in unique worlds that blur the lines between reality and fiction (hoping for a return sooner rather than later!).

Stay tuned for essays, opinions, and insights!

With pins, submissions, and a whole lot of heart, Chloe xoxo

#wrestling #wrestlers #wwe #pro wrestlers #wweuniverse #wwe fandom #wrestling fans #pro wrestling #aew #aew wrestling #aew fandom #aew universe #wrestling thoughts #wrestling opinions #wrestling essays

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