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READER FEEDBACK TO ECW AND LIVE THOUGHTS FROM RAW

I was compelled to submit my feedback after watching the Snitsky v. Balls match. I noticed during the match, and went back and rewatched it on DVR, but after Snitsky rammed Balls into the post, there was ZERO crowd reaction for the rest of Snitsky's "big" moves. I mean, I know Snitsky's not over, but the crowd was dead silent. Usually, there'd at least be an "awwww" for the slingshot spot, or the boot to the head. I hope WWE noticed, too, because I can't see anything that he brings to the table.

Eh, as long as I'm here, I'll give my thoughts on the rest:

I thought RVD and Elijah had a very good match. It's kinda sad what the new ECW crowd will chant "ECW" for, though. The diving kick spot was hardly deserving. The somersault dive...well, that might be worthy. That was pretty cool. And is it just me, or does Elijah have a ton of potential?

Vince McMahon now bores me to tears. However, I didn't mind his "Counterpoint" segment with Lashley. Vince at least took a different tone--almost a matter-of-fact tone--than his usual promo. And when they keep Lashley's speaking to short, serious statements, it works for me.

I thought the 8-man was a fun match. I think everyone knew that Edge would double-cross his team, but it played out well. I think everybody came out looking good, even Punk in taking the loss got in his offense and it took a shillelagh to the head to beat him. I thought it was a good show, overall. Not as hot as Raw, but they certainly didn't LOSE momentum, and if I had the money to order the PPV, I'd be looking forward to both matches involving ECW wrestlers that they pushed tonight.

Daniel
Atlanta

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Attended RAW in Rosemont, IL and was most amazed at the total disdain for John Cena from the crowd -- all boos except from the kiddies age 7 and under. Cena's later promo, although very solid, smacked of severe plagiarism -- he owes The Rock more than just a thank you if he's going to rip-off his cadence and delivery.

Prior to the show, Cryme Time were spending time with the fans in line outside the arena. They were genuinely very cool--taking photos and making small talk with the people while they waited. Smart business and it seemed to translate into good heat for their match.

Maria was out in the lobby before the show and she just looks . . . amazing.

The crowd was thoroughly behind CM Punk, of course, being a local guy. Surprisingly, Mr. Kennedy received a respectable pop on several occasions as well.

Edge showed exactly why he is a top guy -- because his is not just an in-ring talent, but consistently OWNS the mic and has the intangible charisma that Chris Masters will never find. His segment pushing the MITB mania match was very entertaining.

Stone Cold's appearance was great; but I was a bit disappointed there was no appearance by Trump, Foley or any other surprise guest.

The crowd was chanting 'JR' for a really long time after the announcement of his induction into the WWE HOF -- he seemed genuinely moved at the extended response -- definitely one of the top highlights of the evening.

Main event with Cena/Michaels vs. Undertaker /Batista was sensational and was a clinic for pacing and storytelling in a match.

Overall, a solid RAW -- not much wrestling in the first hour and a LOT of commercials for Mania (but that was expected).

Hopefully, Chicago helped put Shawn Michaels in better favor to get the strap at the big dance -- he deserves it -- and the people want it!!

Shawn

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