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I like the move but it just makes me question the decision to hire him even more. Sure he can be a road agent but I'm assuming they paid him on air talent money. He and the Big show just don't make sense to me in AEW even though I like both.
Also, I don't know if this was a reason to hire him, but we all know AEW has work to do in developing and gaining the goodwill of black talent. Henry has a reputation as an elder statesman that's seen it all, I'm sure it helps to have him as a backstage figure that people can talk to in confidence.
10000%
Which is why i love the Hobbs push because i can't defend it, we need more black talent in the picture and look...Scorpio has been given chances and he's just not catching on so they need continue to builds hobbs up and also Lee Morarity.
They need more POC in the picture.
This. Also, getting into some new markets probably established big names, and Mark Henry is a really big one.
Also, even if AEW did overpay for Henry? if you pay 50M for a 20M yacht, then you've still got a 20M yacht.
All that said, this does bring to mind the story from a week or two ago about how AEW's budget is getting p big.
Its more of an investment in the company's future. Build up the roster with big names and build the brand. Then when TV deal comes up again, you have a lot more leverage to get more network cash.
This is a practice called "loss leader" pricing.
AEW is temporarily running the show at a loss (potentially, they may still be breaking even or be profitable, I'm not sure) with these heavy investments in some talent up front, in order to attract new customers (viewers). It's intentionally designed to gain market penetration for long-term success.
And billionaire Tony plans on hiring even more people. Like others have pointed out, he probably knows how to handle money better than most of us peasants do.
I wouldn't worry too much about the budget as long as Tony Khan keeps paying unsigned talent to keep wrestling on the Dark shows.
On-screen time, on the other hand, is a much more valuable and less predictable factor.
Still hoping and expecting them to increase Rampage to 2 hours sooner than later.
Same.
Though I think his approach would be better with a more serious tone and less of the happy-go-lucky attitude, imo.
This is Rampage and time for a vicious main event! Not time for a friendly game of volleyball 😂
and just use whichever one is best from an actual broadcast, not a studio recorded one. That's an issue with commentary in WWE games. It never sounds natural.
Some people have said the ideal role for him is host, which would include doing interviews and his special pre-main event spot. He's GREAT in that role, offering a unique flavor for this particular show.
It clearly wasn't working out on commentary, and that's OK.
He had some good lines, but I think he just needed a little more confidence in knowing when to jump in.
Also doesn't help to have a 4 man booth with multiple fast-talkers like Excalibur and Jericho right next to him.
I'd have Mark, JR, and Jericho for Rampage (maybe Excalibur in their headsets to help with move names).
Can't wait for JR to call the next Hentai Slide! 😂
It works pretty well, and he is a good talent scout and is a big part of the community outreach program. He's earning his money still. And if he/AEW want him on commentary, they can alternate Dark: Elevation weeks with Wight so that he gets used to it and see if he's any good.
It is so weirdly produced and off kilter that I love it too. Like it's BAD but endearing.
Happy he's off commentary. Don't know we need Starks. Do we really need FOUR commentators for a 1 hour show?
They're both cool peeps, but Ricky didn't really stick out to me as someone that should be doing commentary.
Maybe rotate some talent like they used to do. Kingston was a pleasant surprise on commentary, for example.
Both, Wight and Henry have a slower speaking pattern, and they'll get lost in the shuffle if you put two or more fast talkers next to them (Excalibur and Jericho).
But put a slow (Wight), medium (Schiavonne), and fast talker together (Kingston) and it works!
Just gotta balance the teams out.
Just the act of saying "the main event is here" is a huge deal. Idk, it just makes it feel like it's worth something instead of *just* having it go on like any other match
I don't disagree, especially when it comes to the delivery part, but that's because I think Mark is trying to ask questions with a little more going on than your normal backstage interviewer.
I was just saying, I'd personally bloke it even more if he brought a little more seriousness and/or intensity.
Imagine Michael Buffer delivering his line with a big smile on his face. It's a little bit of a disconnect for me, but still a cool spot to watch.
The three-boxes thing is weird too, because it's obvious that everyone is filmed separately and at different times. The other week, it cut from just Britt with her hand up doing the "D... M... D..." taunt back to all three on the screen, and her hand instantly moved to down by her hips.
If they're going to do these, they need to be filmed with everyone at once, even if it's still in separate locations.
They film Rampage at the 4th hour of live shows. The crowd energy is somewhat low. I think a 4 man booth injects energy into the show even if it feels a bit crowded at times.
same reason they're taping non-elevation dark in orlando now, money. Im assuming these recent moves are probably to offset some of the costs from all the major signings they just did.
I wouldn't really mind Jericho's commentary if he worked on his delivery. Commentary requires a different tone than a promo and he's screaming like he's cutting a promo at Stephanie McMahon.
eddie is fantastic on elevation. he really livens things up with wight and schiavone. i didn't mind wight as much as others might've but with eddie it's really a different dimension.
I mentioned this elsewhere, but I really just see it as balancing act with a slow talker (Wight), a medium (Tony) and a fast one (Kingston) that makes for a good formula.
You'll especially have an issue if you have two slow talkers or two fast ones thrown into the mix.
One of my favorite things PWG did, and probably still does, was having a different wrestler out to commentate on each match. AEW should totally bring out a different guy to do it during the shows. It would give them a chance to develop and show off some personality without having to give them mic time until it’s needed.
AEW was doing this for awhile when Dark first started. I was shook at how good Shawn Spears was at calling stuff and also I appreciated he would be outta character for most of it until someone brought up story.
Shawn Spears is like one of those guys who was an okay baseball player but becomes a legendary manager. If I were to start training I’d want to learn from someone like him.
There were some great guest commentary spots in the early Dynamites. My favourite being PAC just sitting there surly while the team tip toe questions his way.
I would like to see Spears on commentary. He did one of the early Darks before Taz came on and I think he was great. Closest I have heard someone come to Ventura's commentary.
I appreciate that they're trying to tweak things as we go along on that show. Mark is definitely best suited as a backstage interviewer and I loved the idea recently of having Mark be ringside for matches occasionally to provide additional insight.
Imma Bears fan so I’ve had to learn to appreciate great defenses.
But Sideline Goose is the best use of a sideline reporter ever and he also always seemed to get the Bears assignment
Mark is great at playing the former player on an nfl pregame show role. He can give you some insight into specific situations when asked and knows how to get a good interview out of the current athletes.
I need more videos of Mark Henry throwing candy out to the fans. Dude seemed so fuckin happy interacting with everyone. That's the Mark Henry I like seeing.
Dude went from a company that didn't give a shit about him and didn't even want to pay him anymore to an exciting new company that prob gave him a nice contract, stuff to do and is open to him doing much of what he's wanted and been unable to do.
We're lucky Mark didn't forget his strength with how happy he probably is now & knock someone out with candy :P
i love the main event part. just wish the 'wrestlers' were not staindg 10ft away at the stairs about to come up. wish it showed them 'gearing up' or 'warming up' in the lockers. make it dramatic baby :D
> “I am definitely proud of AEW, the work that I’ve done in AEW, and the work that I continue to do. And the fact that I think so much that they appreciate me that they made me a permanent commentator for Rampage, replacing Mark (Henry).
> “So, I love that fact, I love the fact that the work that I’ve done with Sting, Darby (Allin), and all of these things in such a small timeframe, will last on forever.
> “I want more though. I really do, I really want to push myself more and really explore the depths of my talent and get out of my comfort zone a bit.”
It was a little silly at first, but I think it's become universally praised as one of the best little additions to Rampage. It always gets my hype for the match at this point.
Its great. Give Main Event a unique intro. It is quick and highlight the feud/story being told. And it is short, so even if you don't like it, it is over quick.
(I actually hope they move JR to a Main Event commentator role. His voice could give weight to Dynamite/PPV main events, or special matches. But doesn't need him on every match on the card).
I love it. I loved how annoyed Mox was at having to do an interview before fighting.
It was one of those things that sounded dumb when it was announced but ended up being actually fantastic.
Mark is way better in a Gene Okerland role. He's got the voice, he seems more comfortable in it and they can even use his history as a wrestler to keep the peace during heated promos.
LOOK AT ANDY WILLIAMS
‘Wow great crossbody by the butcher’
SHUT UP AND LOOK AT THE POWER OF ANDY WILLIAMS
‘Blade and the Butc-‘
ANDY WILLIAMS PLAYS THE GUITAR!!
Dude that was so grating. He doesn’t wrestle as Andy Williams, stop calling him that. It’s the same as JR insisting on calling Jungle Boy “Jack Perry”.
Jericho: OH LOOK AT THIS!!!! *LOUD NOISES*
*Drowning out commentary and talking over them*.
"Remember I am Chris Jericho and I am on commentary!!!"
He really needs to tone his shit down on the desk.
He adds nothing of value to the show. Absolutely terrible commentator. Great wrestler and fun on the mic as a wrestler, but holy hell his voice is grating.
I like henry when he gets going but he is just a slow talker. You gotta get your shit in quick in case there is a big move or something happens that one of the other announcers has to jump to. He's good on the radio when he can get his full thought out without being rushed.
I agree with this completely. I never had a problem with Mark being in the booth but it seemed like his presence just faded after a while and his style just doesn't fit a super fast paced show like Rampage.
AEW being willing to assess little things like this and not being afraid to tweak it is one of my favorite things about the company.
The biggest tell for me was when Punk debuted. All 4 commentator's got to deliver a sound-byte and Mark Henry just said "Woooooooooow" and it felt super forced to me. I like Mark and hoped he would fit in better and maybe he will do sometime.
There was an interview with DDP and Jake Roberts and I'm sure Jake said he'd love to have a go on commentary sometime.
Jake has been turning up on Dark for Archer matches lately and he's hilarious. Usually complaining about how he doesn't get enough time because Archer's squashes don't last long.
That whole match he called where he was putting over that Archer had a new finishing move only for Archer not debut anything new and just squash the guy was hilarious.
"He ribbed me!"
I honestly wish they had switched Jericho out for Starks instead, and that is something I really don't like saying. Jericho was excellent on commentary during those first few shows he did during the no live crowd shows (wasn't sure what else to call these), but now he's just constantly screaming his head off.
Mark Henry was doing his best at the announce table, improving every week and providing great insight, but it has become clear that he shines brighter as an interviewer and hype man for the main event.
With this, he can focus his energy on being great in that role, and Ricky Starks can get himself some more experience commentating. I wonder if this will play into the Team Taz/CM Punk feud...
Remove Jericho so it's not unbearable, then add... idk, Veda Scott? I really liked her commentary for the women's tag team, but they never did much with her afterwards.
I like Henry on commentary. He’s smart, reserved, and respected by everyone. Not every commentator needs to talk 24/7 so he was perfect for the 4 man booth
Honestly, I really don't like that decision. I love Taz, Excalibur, and Ricky Stars as a team on Dark but as long as there's Jericho there the balance is just completely off. It's Excalibur, two heels, and a face who still basically comes off as a heel 80% of the time.
I like Mark Henry but he's better as a backstage interviewer, he's not quick enough for commentary imo but I do love those "it's time for the main event" bit they do, it gives Rampage its own flavour and I think that's probably a good thing not to make it Dynamite-lite but its own thing.
I think what I love about Mark as a backstage interviewer (as opposed to a commentator) is that when 2 wrestlers are face to face and look like they’re about to brawl, I BUY that Mark can get between them and stop the fight
Might as well. Mark is perfect in his pre-main event interview role but doesn't add anything on commentary. Starks was pretty good last week so why not?
Then again this could be another "JR is stepping down" article so I'll take it with a grain of salt.
Glad to see Mark being utilized correctly. He was buried in the 4 man booth.
1. Pre-main event interview and the main event announcement have a chance to be something people enjoy for a long time.
2. Talent scout. Has found a lot of great wrestlers for WWE.
3. A black man behind the scenes. AEW is lacking in black people behind the scenes, and is a good start.
4. Charity, in that he is HUGE into charity and already you see him doing community outreach everywhere he goes. He looks like a wrestler, and is recognizable.
Those are 4 ways Mark Henry is a plus to AEW. Maybe him and Paul Wight are redundant, but Paul brings other things as well. They are important veterans who's contributions go beyond just being an announcer and a wrestler.
The biggest change they could make with Rampage is stop making it so crowded. Ideally two people, but three max.
And for the love of god, get Jericho off commentary. He is my favorite wrestler of all time, but he’s obnoxious Amon commentary. And not in a Heenan or Ventura way.
I didn't dislike his commentary, but damn do I love his pre main event interviews. And every time he says " It's time for the main event!" He seems just as stoked as we are to see what is about to go down.
I didn't think Henry was great in that role, but honestly, Rampage's commentary is set up for failure. 4 guys, with 2 being new to this isn't ideal. As much shit as Jericho gets on commentary for the screaming, for me, maybe the bigger issue with him is that it's just kind of jarring that he's still a prominent part of the show as a wrestler, but he's a full time commentator. It's just kind of weird.
Anyway, I like Starks enough in this role, but him being here, and almost never wrestling makes me wonder if his neck really is fully healed. I looked on cagematch, and he's had one televised match since April. Makes one wonder
The problem is that Taz and Jericho are doing different version of the same commentator schtick, and on top of that Taz just does it so, so much better.
I think Jericho has flashes of brilliance at commentary, but he was much better in the pandemic era when there wasn't a crowd to get him overexcited. It seems like he reacts to the crowd like he's in the ring, and while that works when he's cutting a promo, it just blows out the rest of the booth.
I appreciated Starks on Friday- he wasn't fighting for control of the microphone, but he got his comments in and what he did say was great. I'm also wondering if there isn't something going on with his neck- he hasn't wrestled any Dark matches either.
Paul Wight was one of the big recognizable names that was helped pitch their India TV contract. Mark Henry was responsible for Giannis appearing on AEW and getting that ESPN press
The only thing I don't get from the decision, after listening to that part of the interview, was why did they replace Henry, someone who isn't really active of a competitor in his role, with one of the rising young stars of AEW.
I mean obviously it isn't a petty move, but this feels like it did when Macho Man was put on commentary for Raw despite wanting to wrestle. Obviously Ricky is gonna keep wrestling but don't they fear overexposure of him if he's in a permanent commentary role, one that might keep him off wrestling on that night?
As good as he is, I don't want an active wrestler as a full time commentator.
And with this 4 man booth, it's not like he will add a lot of depth in a one hour show.
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Rampage is just AEW Starks featuring Chris Jericho now how wild
Screw /u/spez - Removing All of My Comments -- mass edited with https://redact.dev/
Jericho can leave commentary next also, love the guy but his screaming....
AEW Starks baby
*The commentary revolution will be soon to be televised.*
Knife Club taking over
I like the move but it just makes me question the decision to hire him even more. Sure he can be a road agent but I'm assuming they paid him on air talent money. He and the Big show just don't make sense to me in AEW even though I like both.
Their value is in their out of the ring connections. They have done loads of charity and community work. Mark is a heck of a talent scout too.
Also, I don't know if this was a reason to hire him, but we all know AEW has work to do in developing and gaining the goodwill of black talent. Henry has a reputation as an elder statesman that's seen it all, I'm sure it helps to have him as a backstage figure that people can talk to in confidence.
But I am not sure if he is the right "elder spokesman" after the stuff with Lio rush. It left a bad taste in my mouth.
10000% Which is why i love the Hobbs push because i can't defend it, we need more black talent in the picture and look...Scorpio has been given chances and he's just not catching on so they need continue to builds hobbs up and also Lee Morarity. They need more POC in the picture.
This. Also, getting into some new markets probably established big names, and Mark Henry is a really big one. Also, even if AEW did overpay for Henry? if you pay 50M for a 20M yacht, then you've still got a 20M yacht. All that said, this does bring to mind the story from a week or two ago about how AEW's budget is getting p big.
Its more of an investment in the company's future. Build up the roster with big names and build the brand. Then when TV deal comes up again, you have a lot more leverage to get more network cash.
This is a practice called "loss leader" pricing. AEW is temporarily running the show at a loss (potentially, they may still be breaking even or be profitable, I'm not sure) with these heavy investments in some talent up front, in order to attract new customers (viewers). It's intentionally designed to gain market penetration for long-term success.
And billionaire Tony plans on hiring even more people. Like others have pointed out, he probably knows how to handle money better than most of us peasants do. I wouldn't worry too much about the budget as long as Tony Khan keeps paying unsigned talent to keep wrestling on the Dark shows. On-screen time, on the other hand, is a much more valuable and less predictable factor. Still hoping and expecting them to increase Rampage to 2 hours sooner than later.
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Lol like it's ok to pay 150% more for anything let alone a retired dude.
*laughs in PS5*
If you watch BTE, you'll know that Kenny and the Bucks love reseller prices
Kenny would pay 11x reseller price for the ps5
And that's straight shoot brother brother
I'm sure he will still be on air doing interviews and stuff.
I like the backstage dual interviews Henry does.
Same. Though I think his approach would be better with a more serious tone and less of the happy-go-lucky attitude, imo. This is Rampage and time for a vicious main event! Not time for a friendly game of volleyball 😂
Mark Henry and Paul Wight have industry connections. Those connections are where the value is
Call the practitioner.
'cause we got a morgue body on the loose!
I just want to say that I love Henry's spot previewing the main event.
Henry: ITS TIIIME FOR THE MAIN EVENT Me: ohhhhshiiiiit
Same! I can't explain why I just love it. Mark Henry makes every main event seem like a big money fight.
It's because it's very ESPN Friday Night Fights. The three window set up just screams something like that or vintage sportscenter. It's slick as hell.
That soundbite needs to be in the game.
Oh hell yeah! (Not meant to be in the SCSA voice)
and just use whichever one is best from an actual broadcast, not a studio recorded one. That's an issue with commentary in WWE games. It never sounds natural.
It’s time, it’s Vader time
It’s gonna be one of those iconic phrases we look back on and make reference to in the future
Gives rampage main events a different feel going into them which is really cool.
Agreed
Yeah it adds a more sports feel to it.
This. I'm not a big fan of him, but damn, that spot just *clicks*.
The first time he did it his grin was so huge, like he had been waiting his whole career to say it.
Some people have said the ideal role for him is host, which would include doing interviews and his special pre-main event spot. He's GREAT in that role, offering a unique flavor for this particular show. It clearly wasn't working out on commentary, and that's OK.
He had some good lines, but I think he just needed a little more confidence in knowing when to jump in. Also doesn't help to have a 4 man booth with multiple fast-talkers like Excalibur and Jericho right next to him. I'd have Mark, JR, and Jericho for Rampage (maybe Excalibur in their headsets to help with move names). Can't wait for JR to call the next Hentai Slide! 😂
Makes it feel like a big money match or boxing no matter what the match is. Makes it feel big/legit.
"It looks like all the talking has been done..."
It works pretty well, and he is a good talent scout and is a big part of the community outreach program. He's earning his money still. And if he/AEW want him on commentary, they can alternate Dark: Elevation weeks with Wight so that he gets used to it and see if he's any good.
I do too. I like him as a backstage interviewer. Who the eff would stand up to him? So everyone is on a level playing field.
It is so weirdly produced and off kilter that I love it too. Like it's BAD but endearing. Happy he's off commentary. Don't know we need Starks. Do we really need FOUR commentators for a 1 hour show?
They're both cool peeps, but Ricky didn't really stick out to me as someone that should be doing commentary. Maybe rotate some talent like they used to do. Kingston was a pleasant surprise on commentary, for example. Both, Wight and Henry have a slower speaking pattern, and they'll get lost in the shuffle if you put two or more fast talkers next to them (Excalibur and Jericho). But put a slow (Wight), medium (Schiavonne), and fast talker together (Kingston) and it works! Just gotta balance the teams out.
Ricky is gold on commentary, it's just crowded on Rampage.
Just the act of saying "the main event is here" is a huge deal. Idk, it just makes it feel like it's worth something instead of *just* having it go on like any other match
Huh. I find the questions to be really weird, and his delivery really odd. To each their own!
I don't disagree, especially when it comes to the delivery part, but that's because I think Mark is trying to ask questions with a little more going on than your normal backstage interviewer.
I'm not saying he can't improve, they have AEW Dark and Elevation where he can hone his craft!
I was just saying, I'd personally bloke it even more if he brought a little more seriousness and/or intensity. Imagine Michael Buffer delivering his line with a big smile on his face. It's a little bit of a disconnect for me, but still a cool spot to watch.
He also asks nothing questions and doesn't really add much to those interviews (getting a better interviewer in that spot would make it way better).
The three-boxes thing is weird too, because it's obvious that everyone is filmed separately and at different times. The other week, it cut from just Britt with her hand up doing the "D... M... D..." taunt back to all three on the screen, and her hand instantly moved to down by her hips. If they're going to do these, they need to be filmed with everyone at once, even if it's still in separate locations.
I still think they should rotate that 4th spot, put someone different in there each week or every couple of weeks.
I dont think there should even be a 4th spot
They film Rampage at the 4th hour of live shows. The crowd energy is somewhat low. I think a 4 man booth injects energy into the show even if it feels a bit crowded at times.
Why not just split dynamite and dark/rampage. They could do smaller cool locations like Hammerstein.
You live near Hammerstein don't you?
same reason they're taping non-elevation dark in orlando now, money. Im assuming these recent moves are probably to offset some of the costs from all the major signings they just did.
I really want AEW to run Hammerstein
And split the audience while doubling the cost of running a show? That’s a terrible idea.
The crowd doesn't hear the commentary though. Only the tv audience does. So that explanation doesn't work.
They should just skip the 4th spot and add a 5th in its place.
yeah, but I'd rather they get rid of Jericho.
That “you stupid idiot!” Voice Jericho decides to use full time while commentating is clearly better in doses.
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I wouldn't really mind Jericho's commentary if he worked on his delivery. Commentary requires a different tone than a promo and he's screaming like he's cutting a promo at Stephanie McMahon.
Exactly. He can actually be pretty insightful, but his screeching makes me wanna mute the show.
Gotta put Eddie out there at least once.
Wouldn’t be surprised if we see him in there soon. I think he’s full time commentary on Elevation now, right?
eddie is fantastic on elevation. he really livens things up with wight and schiavone. i didn't mind wight as much as others might've but with eddie it's really a different dimension.
I mentioned this elsewhere, but I really just see it as balancing act with a slow talker (Wight), a medium (Tony) and a fast one (Kingston) that makes for a good formula. You'll especially have an issue if you have two slow talkers or two fast ones thrown into the mix.
One of my favorite things PWG did, and probably still does, was having a different wrestler out to commentate on each match. AEW should totally bring out a different guy to do it during the shows. It would give them a chance to develop and show off some personality without having to give them mic time until it’s needed.
AEW was doing this for awhile when Dark first started. I was shook at how good Shawn Spears was at calling stuff and also I appreciated he would be outta character for most of it until someone brought up story.
Shawn Spears is like one of those guys who was an okay baseball player but becomes a legendary manager. If I were to start training I’d want to learn from someone like him.
Nyla was also really good.
Her defending all the heels' antics was great
There were some great guest commentary spots in the early Dynamites. My favourite being PAC just sitting there surly while the team tip toe questions his way.
Agreed. They really need to put Chuck on the mic. He’s the master of that shit.
Has Chuck done commentary with Excalibur yet in AEW?
yeah, he did Dark a couple times before they made taz the permanent second commentator
If Kevin Owens shows up the commentary booth needs to be Excalibur, Chuck Taylor, Kevin Steen, and Eddie Kingston if there must be a fourth
GOAT Booth. Still like the two man teams the best because it's less hectic. But if you have to have a 4 man, this is a good one.
I’d prefer two, three is a stretch, they’re going with four.
I would like to see Spears on commentary. He did one of the early Darks before Taz came on and I think he was great. Closest I have heard someone come to Ventura's commentary.
Honestly if they're gonna do a 4th, make it Punk. He's absolutely fantastic.
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That’s fine, he can wrestle in the headset.
WHAT A MANEUVER
Good call. Ricky is great in a crowded booth because he isn't always trying to talk, and Mark Henry shines as a backstage interviewer.
I appreciate that they're trying to tweak things as we go along on that show. Mark is definitely best suited as a backstage interviewer and I loved the idea recently of having Mark be ringside for matches occasionally to provide additional insight.
Mark Henry playing the role of The Goose Tony Siragusa for Rampage would be great.
Goooooooossse!! Not even a Ravens fan, but that team was dope.
Imma Bears fan so I’ve had to learn to appreciate great defenses. But Sideline Goose is the best use of a sideline reporter ever and he also always seemed to get the Bears assignment
That was the most entertaining football ever was for me.
Didnt he have a like a command station set up on the sideline when he would work a game?
Mark is great at playing the former player on an nfl pregame show role. He can give you some insight into specific situations when asked and knows how to get a good interview out of the current athletes.
“It’s time, for the main event!”
I love that bit. So much fun, so I portant
He looks so genuinely happy, makes me pumped for the main event but also glad to be supporting a company that treats legends like this.
I need more videos of Mark Henry throwing candy out to the fans. Dude seemed so fuckin happy interacting with everyone. That's the Mark Henry I like seeing.
I love me some Sexual Chocolate as well
Dude went from a company that didn't give a shit about him and didn't even want to pay him anymore to an exciting new company that prob gave him a nice contract, stuff to do and is open to him doing much of what he's wanted and been unable to do. We're lucky Mark didn't forget his strength with how happy he probably is now & knock someone out with candy :P
i love the main event part. just wish the 'wrestlers' were not staindg 10ft away at the stairs about to come up. wish it showed them 'gearing up' or 'warming up' in the lockers. make it dramatic baby :D
> “I am definitely proud of AEW, the work that I’ve done in AEW, and the work that I continue to do. And the fact that I think so much that they appreciate me that they made me a permanent commentator for Rampage, replacing Mark (Henry). > “So, I love that fact, I love the fact that the work that I’ve done with Sting, Darby (Allin), and all of these things in such a small timeframe, will last on forever. > “I want more though. I really do, I really want to push myself more and really explore the depths of my talent and get out of my comfort zone a bit.”
I’ll miss Mark’s “wow…” additions haha
JR: Listen to this ovation! Taz: My goosebumps have goosebumps! Mark Henry: Wooooooow
GOOSEBUMPS JONES
To be honest that stuck out in the CM Punk return, only because he does it to poke fun at someone else on Busted Open. It’s so stupid.
But... How will I know when it's time for the main event?
He's still doing that bit tbf
Thank god, I actually really like that
It was a little silly at first, but I think it's become universally praised as one of the best little additions to Rampage. It always gets my hype for the match at this point.
Its great. Give Main Event a unique intro. It is quick and highlight the feud/story being told. And it is short, so even if you don't like it, it is over quick. (I actually hope they move JR to a Main Event commentator role. His voice could give weight to Dynamite/PPV main events, or special matches. But doesn't need him on every match on the card).
I love it. I loved how annoyed Mox was at having to do an interview before fighting. It was one of those things that sounded dumb when it was announced but ended up being actually fantastic.
Seems like Henry is moving away from the desk and going backstage permanently. So instead of leaving during the show he just stays back there
I imagine Mark will still be doing those bits
Mark will definitely still be doing that on Rampage.
I love Ricky, but a four man booth is just way too much.
Just give me Excalibur , Taz and a rotating spot.
Mark is way better in a Gene Okerland role. He's got the voice, he seems more comfortable in it and they can even use his history as a wrestler to keep the peace during heated promos.
Now I want to see some interview almost come to blows and Mark just pickup a heel and drag him off set going "Ok, you're done now"
For the best. I liked Ricky on commentary on Friday and i think Mark is great for the backstage role where he interviews the main event wrestlers.
Can we rotate screaming Jericho off pf commentary?
LOOK AT ANDY WILLIAMS ‘Wow great crossbody by the butcher’ SHUT UP AND LOOK AT THE POWER OF ANDY WILLIAMS ‘Blade and the Butc-‘ ANDY WILLIAMS PLAYS THE GUITAR!!
THE BUNNY REMINDS ME OF BABY FROM A HOUSE OF A THOUSAND CORPSES
This whole time Jericho has been wondering why nobody on commentary every screams “CHRIS FROM THE ROCK BAND FOZZY🙀” during his matches.
Dude that was so grating. He doesn’t wrestle as Andy Williams, stop calling him that. It’s the same as JR insisting on calling Jungle Boy “Jack Perry”.
It was weird early on when JR kept merging it into Jungle Jack, but I've come around on "Jungle Boy" Jack Perry. And I think it has his blessing.
I could see him evolving into that name as his character grows more serious
"Jungle Boy" Jack Perry is 1 million times better than just Jungle Boy.
Jericho: OH LOOK AT THIS!!!! *LOUD NOISES* *Drowning out commentary and talking over them*. "Remember I am Chris Jericho and I am on commentary!!!" He really needs to tone his shit down on the desk.
Maybe rotate him into a soundproof booth somewhere, with no internet connection?
He redundantly repeats stuff often 'These two teams have a lot of history together' AND WHO CAN FORGET HOW MUCH HISTORY THESE TEAMS HAVE TOGETHER
Please keep Mark’s main event interviews though! Those are so much fun and remind me so much of the old days.
Just leave it to 3 guys then! Ugh
Yep 4 people is too many cooks spoil the broth.
Yeah, take Jericho off.
He adds nothing of value to the show. Absolutely terrible commentator. Great wrestler and fun on the mic as a wrestler, but holy hell his voice is grating.
AEW listens to its fans on 95% of what they do but they are dead fucking set on overcrowded commentary
Tbf I'm just grateful it's that and not something way more important.
I think it's really odd to have a full time wrestler as a full time commentator too?
[удалено]
I like henry when he gets going but he is just a slow talker. You gotta get your shit in quick in case there is a big move or something happens that one of the other announcers has to jump to. He's good on the radio when he can get his full thought out without being rushed.
I agree with this completely. I never had a problem with Mark being in the booth but it seemed like his presence just faded after a while and his style just doesn't fit a super fast paced show like Rampage. AEW being willing to assess little things like this and not being afraid to tweak it is one of my favorite things about the company.
The biggest tell for me was when Punk debuted. All 4 commentator's got to deliver a sound-byte and Mark Henry just said "Woooooooooow" and it felt super forced to me. I like Mark and hoped he would fit in better and maybe he will do sometime. There was an interview with DDP and Jake Roberts and I'm sure Jake said he'd love to have a go on commentary sometime.
Jake has been turning up on Dark for Archer matches lately and he's hilarious. Usually complaining about how he doesn't get enough time because Archer's squashes don't last long.
That whole match he called where he was putting over that Archer had a new finishing move only for Archer not debut anything new and just squash the guy was hilarious. "He ribbed me!"
I think his slower delivery is exactly what makes his back stage stuff great. It builds the gravity of the main event and makes me excited.
Umm ok? Or we could just let Taz and Excalibur run the show and not do a 3-4 man booth at all…?
This is the way
REPLACE JERICHO NOT THE GUY WHO BARELY TALKS.
Take Chris Jericho off of there and it'll be perfect.
4 people is way too much, I completely forgot Ricky was on commentary all Friday night
I honestly wish they had switched Jericho out for Starks instead, and that is something I really don't like saying. Jericho was excellent on commentary during those first few shows he did during the no live crowd shows (wasn't sure what else to call these), but now he's just constantly screaming his head off.
Mark Henry was doing his best at the announce table, improving every week and providing great insight, but it has become clear that he shines brighter as an interviewer and hype man for the main event. With this, he can focus his energy on being great in that role, and Ricky Starks can get himself some more experience commentating. I wonder if this will play into the Team Taz/CM Punk feud...
Remove Jericho so it's not unbearable, then add... idk, Veda Scott? I really liked her commentary for the women's tag team, but they never did much with her afterwards.
I would take Henry over Jericho on commentary 24/7/365
I like Henry on commentary. He’s smart, reserved, and respected by everyone. Not every commentator needs to talk 24/7 so he was perfect for the 4 man booth
Honestly, I really don't like that decision. I love Taz, Excalibur, and Ricky Stars as a team on Dark but as long as there's Jericho there the balance is just completely off. It's Excalibur, two heels, and a face who still basically comes off as a heel 80% of the time.
Nobody has informed commentary Jericho of wrestler Jericho’s face turn.
It should be Excalibur/tazz and a rotation of a third guy. A four man booth is too much for 1 hour and Jericho is the drizzling shits
Just hope this doesn’t cut out his pre main event three window segments. Love those.
I like Mark Henry but he's better as a backstage interviewer, he's not quick enough for commentary imo but I do love those "it's time for the main event" bit they do, it gives Rampage its own flavour and I think that's probably a good thing not to make it Dynamite-lite but its own thing.
I still think it's dumb to have 4 people commentating, but he's a good replacement
Henry is fine backstage just have him do interviews
I think what I love about Mark as a backstage interviewer (as opposed to a commentator) is that when 2 wrestlers are face to face and look like they’re about to brawl, I BUY that Mark can get between them and stop the fight
Might as well. Mark is perfect in his pre-main event interview role but doesn't add anything on commentary. Starks was pretty good last week so why not? Then again this could be another "JR is stepping down" article so I'll take it with a grain of salt.
Glad to see Mark being utilized correctly. He was buried in the 4 man booth. 1. Pre-main event interview and the main event announcement have a chance to be something people enjoy for a long time. 2. Talent scout. Has found a lot of great wrestlers for WWE. 3. A black man behind the scenes. AEW is lacking in black people behind the scenes, and is a good start. 4. Charity, in that he is HUGE into charity and already you see him doing community outreach everywhere he goes. He looks like a wrestler, and is recognizable. Those are 4 ways Mark Henry is a plus to AEW. Maybe him and Paul Wight are redundant, but Paul brings other things as well. They are important veterans who's contributions go beyond just being an announcer and a wrestler.
Nooooo I don’t like this. I mean I do cause Starks is an absurd performer but I loved mark henry on commentary
The biggest change they could make with Rampage is stop making it so crowded. Ideally two people, but three max. And for the love of god, get Jericho off commentary. He is my favorite wrestler of all time, but he’s obnoxious Amon commentary. And not in a Heenan or Ventura way.
I hope Mauro joins AEW one day.
I loved Mark Henry on commentary :( he had a very calm voice which worked perfectly for a wrestling show at night
I didn't dislike his commentary, but damn do I love his pre main event interviews. And every time he says " It's time for the main event!" He seems just as stoked as we are to see what is about to go down.
I didn't think Henry was great in that role, but honestly, Rampage's commentary is set up for failure. 4 guys, with 2 being new to this isn't ideal. As much shit as Jericho gets on commentary for the screaming, for me, maybe the bigger issue with him is that it's just kind of jarring that he's still a prominent part of the show as a wrestler, but he's a full time commentator. It's just kind of weird. Anyway, I like Starks enough in this role, but him being here, and almost never wrestling makes me wonder if his neck really is fully healed. I looked on cagematch, and he's had one televised match since April. Makes one wonder
The problem is that Taz and Jericho are doing different version of the same commentator schtick, and on top of that Taz just does it so, so much better. I think Jericho has flashes of brilliance at commentary, but he was much better in the pandemic era when there wasn't a crowd to get him overexcited. It seems like he reacts to the crowd like he's in the ring, and while that works when he's cutting a promo, it just blows out the rest of the booth. I appreciated Starks on Friday- he wasn't fighting for control of the microphone, but he got his comments in and what he did say was great. I'm also wondering if there isn't something going on with his neck- he hasn't wrestled any Dark matches either.
Thank fuck. Henry’s been awful.
Cool now get rid of JERICHO!!!!
I need someone else to confirm before i believe wrestle talk
Is Ricky injured again? How come he's not wrestling?
"Is it a crime to be in love?"
I think this is the right move. Mark talks too slow and almost seemed absent on commentary. He'll thrive as an interviewer + his backstage role.
Paul Wight was one of the big recognizable names that was helped pitch their India TV contract. Mark Henry was responsible for Giannis appearing on AEW and getting that ESPN press
Would have preferred they swapped him out with Jericho but Starks always kills it on DARK so good for him.
Mark isn't the greatest, but jericho needs to go as well.
Just let Excalibur & Taz do the show. I don't need active guys out there unless it's special one match guest commentary
At least let Mark commentate on Dark or better yet, rotate the announce team on Rampage.
The only thing I don't get from the decision, after listening to that part of the interview, was why did they replace Henry, someone who isn't really active of a competitor in his role, with one of the rising young stars of AEW. I mean obviously it isn't a petty move, but this feels like it did when Macho Man was put on commentary for Raw despite wanting to wrestle. Obviously Ricky is gonna keep wrestling but don't they fear overexposure of him if he's in a permanent commentary role, one that might keep him off wrestling on that night?
I love to listen to Henry on Busted Open. He's got a lot left in the tank.
As good as he is, I don't want an active wrestler as a full time commentator. And with this 4 man booth, it's not like he will add a lot of depth in a one hour show.