Thanks to reader Dave Martin for this report:
-The HSBC Arena was pretty much filled up. Only a few section were tarped off and just the back rows of some floor seats were empty. It was a good full crowd.
-The Mexicools showing up in the lobby (I was there watching Heat) was awesome. It really pumped the crowd.
-The opening fireworks were amazing. The lit up the entire place and were very well presented. (Vince should be proud of himself)
-The dark match, Paul London & Nunzio was well received. The kick that Paul did to the back of Nunzios's head echoed throughout the arena.
-The comment that Animal made of Hawk "this one is for you", brought the house done!
-Nobody cared about Orlando Jordan. Chris Benoit got a huge pop & a standing ovation at the end of his match, but no one cared for Orlando. Vince what gives?
-The Eddie and Ray match was outstanding.
-Batista's pop was amazing. I haven't heard a crowd that loud since the days of Hulk & Stone Cold. He was way over with the crowd. People were not happy with the finish at all. Everyone knew that there would be a run in but we were hoping for either Randy Orton or Brock Lesnar. For a Pay Per View (our city's first in 5 years) the ending was disappointing.
-Tons of Cena's "The champ is here" shirts were selling great along with any Batista shirt. (I think the days of HHH being top dog are coming to an end)
Biggest Pops:
-Batista...Batista...Batista
-Undertaker entrance & when he put Hassan through the stage.
-Chris Benoit- his standing ovation had to make him feel good
-Animal with Hawk, this one is for you
Biggest Heat:
-JBL-and not in a good way. In a X-Pac way
-Orlando Jordan- see JBL, but double it.
-Hassan
-Eddie when he went near Dominic
Notes:
-I saw Teddy Long outside afterwards and asked him where he was. His comment was... "I was backstage taking care of business" Couldn't he at least made an appearance on stage?
-Nunzio entertained the crowd outside with a few jokes.
-Candice was VERY friendly and posed for pictures & talked with the fans. Diva wannabees, take note!
-Chris Benoit was having car trouble, but he waved to the fans.
-Batista grabbed the iron fence outside and did his warrior rope shake with it. BTW: he must not know his own strength. He tore part of it up and made it very loose in doing so. He is one strong man to do that.
Hopefully we can get another PPV soon or at least another Raw to make up for the shoddy ending.
