As someone who has been to both televised and live events countless times over the last 25 years, it never ceases to amaze how much more fun the men and women of WWE seem to be having in the house show environment. Without the pressure and confines that comes along with a Raw or SmackDown taping, or even a pay-per-view event, they are free to enjoy themselves and put on a show that combines action, excitement and humor for the fans. The Miz was the first to embrace the lighter atmosphere, hopping on the apron and demanding that his opponents "GET OUTTA HERE" in the most over-the-top and obnoxiously hilarious way imaginable. Dolph Ziggler and The Usos were both visibly amused, cracking a smile and in the former's case, laughing. Bubba Ray got in on the fun, missing a seated splash, then rolling outside the ring and exclaiming, "I'm checking my ass!" The second match of the night saw Rusev mockingly count along with the referee as Sin Cara laid at ringside. He flubbed, though, skipping over five and heading right to six, something that threw official Charles Robinson off. The two shared a laugh, as seen in the above pic, before action resumed. Alberto Del Rio, not typically the first Superstar one would expect to drop his ultra cool, suave personality to kid around with his co-workers, targeted announcer Tony Chimel. He used his scarf to tie the longtime employee's mouth shut, then forced his t-shirt over Chimel's suit. As a fan who has watched so many of the guys appear unenthusiastic as they go through the motions on Raw and SmackDown, victims of 50-50 booking and uninspired Creative, it was refreshing to see them let their guards down and have fun. It was infectious and made for a much more enjoyable experience than the uptight feel of the television tapings the company runs.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
