Talking points of the week - WWE (18 - 24 May' 2015)

3. Paige’s Promo

Paige’s promo on Smackdown recieved mixed reactions

Paige’s return may have been a welcome sign on Raw but on Smackdown her promo wasn’t. On Smackdown,though,Naomi had some choice words to speak and she was articulate and she played her part well. Her promo was logical and a highlight of the show. But Paige was on quite a different page earlier. The 22 year old suggested that Tamina was a man. She even went on to call her Naomi’s little boyfriend. Reaction around this exclamation was quite mixed.

Gender issues are part of the WWE. It’s a hypermasculine world. When The Rock returned and insinuated that he’ll kick Cena’s ‘lady parts’, people chose to have a hearty laugh. ‘Girly’, ‘like a girl’ – these terms have long been part of the WWE litany and they are meant to be insulting. But why? Nobody has ever raised an eyebrow when it comes to babyfaces making such an exclamation.

Paige’s little remarks were unnecessary, of course. But so are the countless other references in the men's division.

4. Balor’s Entrance

Balor debuted some new body art

There is no doubt beyond doubts that Takeover Unstoppable began on a stellar note. Finn Balor’s entrance was one for the ages. It triggered a lot of shrieking, fanatic movements by the audience in the arena. It was a state of sheer frenzy. He introduced a new edition in his body paint. His back now has an eye- The eye of Balor. It’s a nice little touch. After all his name itself is oxymoronic. Finn, in Irish lore is the arch enemy of the demon king Balor. This little detail does a lot to enhance the meaning of his gimmick.

The scratches on his thighs added the demonic feel of his presence.

5. Kevin Owens is a marked man

Kevin Owens is on many a hit list.

Kevin Owens made his way to Raw and powerbombed John Cena and left after getting a match to face the face who runs the place at the Elimination Chamber. Then he decimated Sami Zayn and on his way to ending the match, he head butted William Regal. It was all built up for something spectacular to unravel. Samoa Joe made his way to the ring and stared straight into Owens. It was a picture of something that promised utter violence.

Owens also has Finn Balor to think about as the Irishman became the No.1 contender for the NXT title again.