fortheloveofwrestling.net: Gut Check Reactions: Joey Ryan

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Gut Check Reactions: Joey Ryan

Violet: Clearly, the Gut Check judges made a mistake in not awarding Joey Ryan a contract. With 87% of the viewing audience on his side and an enjoyable match against X-Division Champion Austin Aries under his belt, I thought Ryan had this in the bag. However, what makes the judges’ decision here even more baffling is their reaction to Ryan’s creative “sleazy” gimmick. At times they seemed pleased with his strong and cohesive character, but it seemed as if he was punished for staying in character. I simply do not get it.

Alex: This has to be a work, right? Not only was Joey Ryan money when he was given the opportunity to talk, but he tore the judges apart when he was given a "final chance" to sway them. Taz is clearly taking on the role of "tough guy judge" now that Flair is gone, and frankly, he sucks at it. All the talk of in character, out of character, gimmick, and all of the "insider" talk is making Gut Check hard to take seriously. Joey Ryan didn't get the contract because he stayed in character, even when his back was against the wall. When his future is on the line, the guy doesn't break character and stays the course. If that isn't professionalism, then I don't understand professional wrestling as well as I thought I did. Like we said when we named Joey Ryan "Wrestler of the Week", he is MONEY. If this isn't a work, TNA and Gut Check are a joke.

We'll take a look at TNA's Gut Check each month and discuss whether or not we feel the judges made the right call.