Format: DVD
Studio: WWE Home Video
Review by: Bill Jones
Extreme Rules was introduced to WWE as the ECW pay-per-view of the year, but since going PG, it has become more about gimmick matches – cages, ladders, last man standing – than anything truly “extreme.” And while 2011’s iteration still finds itself stuck in that rut, it has a few gems. While it never tops the bill, Christian and Alberto del Rio put on a solid (not classic) ladder match, with the great story of Christian’s first championship win behind it. CM Punk and Randy Orton also have a knock-down drag-out last man standing bout. The triple threat main event cage match between The Miz, John Cena and John Morrison also has its moments, but feels awkward all around, and the end of The Miz’s reign is a disappointment.
Pros: Surprisingly good women’s match between Michelle McCool and Layla. Solid Rey Mysterio vs. Cody Rhodes falls count anywhere match.
Cons: Tag team country whipping match is awful, a terrible extension of Michael Cole’s storyline. Home video exclusive is once again disappointing.
For more info, wwe.com
Pads & Panels received a copy of the DVD courtesy of the studio for review purposes.
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August 23rd, 2011 at 12:24 pm
Can they just let Cena hold onto the (non)Spinner Belt and reinstate a better looking title? Let’s make it his Million Dollar Belt or FTW title.
Also, I totally agree about your PG-era statement. These matches don’t hold the same weight as the extreme matches we were used to from old school ECW. You’ll never get the “Edge spears Foley through a flaming table” type of moment in WWE’s current environment.