Extreme Rules 2019: Meltzer's Deep Dive

by Jhon Lennon 40 views

Hey wrestling fanatics! Let's journey back to 2019, shall we? We're diving deep into Extreme Rules, and who better to guide us than the legendary Dave Meltzer? His insights, analysis, and ability to dissect a wrestling match are second to none. So, grab your popcorn, and let's unravel what Meltzer thought of this action-packed night. We'll explore the card, examine the matches, and see what stood out to one of the most respected voices in professional wrestling journalism.

The Build-Up and Expectations

Before we jump into the matches, let's remember the buzz. WWE Extreme Rules 2019 was a card filled with promise. The storylines were heating up, and fans were eager to see how these rivalries would culminate. Leading up to the event, the promotional machine was in full swing, painting pictures of high-stakes matches and unforgettable moments. Meltzer, with his finger firmly on the pulse of the wrestling world, would have been monitoring the fan sentiment, the creative decisions, and the overall trajectory of the event. Expectations were high, fueled by the anticipation of a night where championships were on the line and grudges would be settled. The anticipation built with each passing week, and fans discussed the possible outcomes and dream scenarios. The WWE Universe was buzzing with predictions and debates. Extreme Rules events are often known for their unpredictable nature and the potential for shocking twists, which further heightened the excitement. The atmosphere surrounding the show suggested that it could be a pivotal night, potentially reshaping the landscape of WWE. Meltzer's evaluation would have likely considered the effectiveness of the storylines in capturing the audience's attention and the potential for the matches to deliver on their promise. He'd also have been assessing whether the creative team had set the stage for a memorable night. It's safe to say that the anticipation was palpable, and the stakes were undeniably high. With each segment and promo, the desire to witness the drama unfold increased. The Road to Extreme Rules was a calculated journey, designed to generate enough momentum and intrigue to make the PPV a must-see event. And the success of this build-up would be a key factor in Meltzer's assessment of the overall performance.

Analyzing the Main Event: Undertaker and Roman Reigns vs. Shane McMahon and Drew McIntyre

Alright, let's talk about the main event, guys. The Undertaker and Roman Reigns teamed up to take on Shane McMahon and Drew McIntyre in a no holds barred tag team match. Meltzer, known for his critical eye, probably had a lot to say about this one. This match brought together two generations of wrestling. On one side, you had legends and veterans, on the other, promising performers. It was a clash of styles, experience, and sheer athleticism. Considering that the Undertaker was involved, there were mixed feelings. People were excited to see the Phenom in action, but also concerned about his physical condition. Roman Reigns' involvement added star power and a modern edge to the bout. Shane McMahon, never one to shy away from high-risk maneuvers, brought the chaos, while Drew McIntyre provided a powerful presence. Meltzer's analysis would have focused on several aspects. Firstly, the performance of The Undertaker. Was he able to keep up with the pace? Did he deliver a performance that met the expectations of his fans? Second, the effectiveness of the storytelling within the match. Was the dynamic between the four wrestlers compelling? Did the match build to a satisfying climax? Third, the overall match quality. Were the spots well-executed? Did the match live up to the hype? Finally, the implications of the outcome. How did the result impact the ongoing storylines? Did it create new opportunities for the wrestlers involved? The match itself was a spectacle, filled with near falls, weapons, and outside interference. Drew McIntyre was the powerhouse, Shane McMahon was the opportunistic antagonist, Roman Reigns was the resilient hero, and The Undertaker was the veteran presence. This match served as the ultimate test of endurance, skill, and the ability to captivate an audience.

The Rest of the Card: A Mixed Bag?

Extreme Rules 2019 wasn't just about the main event. The undercard featured a variety of matches, each with its own story to tell. Meltzer's perspective would be crucial in determining the overall quality of the event.

We had matches like:

  • The WWE Championship Match: Kofi Kingston defended his title against Samoa Joe. A classic clash of styles where Kofi's high-flying and Joe's brutality was a recipe for excitement. Meltzer would have evaluated the pacing, storytelling, and in-ring performances of both wrestlers. He would assess whether Kofi was able to shine as champion and if Samoa Joe got to showcase his dominant side.
  • The Raw Women's Championship Match: Becky Lynch defended her title in a mixed tag team match against Seth Rollins and Baron Corbin. It was a contest loaded with personal drama and high stakes. Meltzer would evaluate the integration of the male and female wrestlers in the match. He'd have an opinion on the overall balance. And the effectiveness of the story told within the match.
  • The SmackDown Tag Team Championship Match: Daniel Bryan and Rowan defended their titles against the New Day. This match showcased some of the best tag team wrestling in the business. Meltzer would have paid close attention to the team's dynamics and how the match highlighted their styles. He'd assess the impact the match had on the SmackDown tag team division.
  • Other Matches: The card also included other matches that were a source of debate for fans and critics alike. Meltzer's review would take a comprehensive look at the overall event, giving credit where it's due and identifying areas for improvement.

Ultimately, the goal would be to assess whether the event delivered on its promises, met fan expectations, and left a lasting impact on the wrestling world. Meltzer would break down the good, the bad, and the ugly of Extreme Rules 2019.

Meltzer's Star Ratings and Match Analysis: The Numbers Game

Dave Meltzer's star ratings are famous (and sometimes controversial!). He uses a five-star scale to rate matches based on various factors. When reviewing Extreme Rules 2019, Meltzer would have applied this system. Each match would be broken down, with consideration given to the following points:

  • Workrate: This refers to the in-ring action, including the technical skills, execution of moves, and the overall pace of the match.
  • Storytelling: A good match is more than just moves; it tells a story. Meltzer would have evaluated how well the wrestlers conveyed emotions, built tension, and created a compelling narrative.
  • Psychology: This concerns the wrestlers' understanding of their characters and their ability to react appropriately to the situation.
  • Selling: The art of making the moves and the story seem believable. Meltzer would have looked at how well the wrestlers sold their opponents' moves.
  • Stiffness: The intensity and impact of the moves. He looks for a balance between looking good and protecting the performers.
  • Overall Impact: How memorable was the match? Did it change the trajectory of the wrestlers involved? Did it generate significant fan reaction?

Based on these criteria, Meltzer assigns a star rating. This number reflects his overall assessment of the match quality. The star ratings are not the only measure of a match. They are also a conversation starter, sparking debates among wrestling fans. The star ratings also provided a benchmark for comparing matches across different promotions and eras. They became a significant part of the wrestling community's lexicon.

The Aftermath: What Did Meltzer Think?

So, what was Dave Meltzer's final verdict on Extreme Rules 2019? Well, you'd have to consult his Wrestling Observer Newsletter, but we can make some educated guesses. Given his meticulous approach, he'd likely dissect the show match by match, providing his usual insights and ratings. He would have considered the following:

  • The Main Event's Effectiveness: Did the Undertaker match deliver? Was the result appropriate? Was it a good showcase for the other wrestlers?
  • Match Quality: Which matches stood out? Which ones fell flat?
  • Storyline Progression: Did the event advance the existing storylines effectively? Did it create new opportunities?
  • Overall Value: Did the event live up to the hype? Was it worth the pay-per-view price?

Meltzer's analysis would probably acknowledge the highs and lows. His reviews often reflect his in-depth understanding of the wrestling business. Fans eagerly anticipate his reports. They trust him to give an honest assessment. His reviews provide a framework for discussing the event and its significance. It's safe to say that his review would provide a deeper understanding of the show, beyond the immediate reactions. His work is invaluable to the wrestling community and provides a historical context.

The Lasting Legacy of Extreme Rules 2019

Extreme Rules 2019 remains a subject of debate among wrestling fans. It's a snapshot of the WWE landscape at that time. Understanding its impact requires a critical eye. Meltzer's analysis, with its star ratings and detailed breakdowns, helps us to understand the show's overall significance. It gives us a framework to evaluate its place in wrestling history. Whether you loved it, hated it, or had mixed feelings, Extreme Rules 2019 left its mark. The matches, the storylines, and the outcomes shaped the WWE Universe. The event also revealed strengths and weaknesses in the current direction of WWE's creative process. Through his assessments, we understand the long-term implications. Looking back, we see that the event contributed to the ever-evolving story of professional wrestling. It's a reminder of how much the wrestling world has changed.

Conclusion: Meltzer's Influence and You

Dave Meltzer's impact on professional wrestling journalism is undeniable. His ability to provide in-depth analysis has made him a respected figure in the wrestling community. His reviews offer a critical perspective. And they help us understand the art of professional wrestling. Whether you agree with his opinions or not, his influence is undeniable. Extreme Rules 2019 provides a compelling case study. It highlights how Meltzer's work informs our understanding of the sport. His legacy ensures that future wrestling events will be discussed and dissected with the same level of detail.

So, there you have it, folks! A journey through Extreme Rules 2019 from the eyes of one of the greatest wrestling analysts. Now, go back and watch the event, and see if your opinion aligns with Dave Meltzer's. Until next time, keep enjoying the world of wrestling! Peace out.