Shore's TNA Genesis Preview and Predictions: Micke James vs. Gail Kim for the Knockout's Title, James Storm vs. Kurt Angle, and Jeff Hardy vs. Robert Roode for the TNA Heavyweight Championship

By Chris Shore

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***The following predictions are made without inside knowledge to the finishes.

Bobby Roode vs. Jeff Hardy for the TNA Title: While I have no problem with Jeff Hardy challenging for the TNA Championship, even after the Victory Road debacle, I would have major problems with him winning. I don't think he's been around long enough to prove his commitment to sobriety, and there is way too much money on the table with Roode vs. Storm to change directions now. Even though we have seen questionable booking decisions in the past, I don't expect one here. It's a TNA PPV, so on't expect a clean finish on this one.

Prediction: Robert Roode retains the TNA Title.

Kurt Angle vs. James Storm: Kurt Angle continues to believe he is going to make the US Olympic team. I think it's a pipe dream, but he seems sincere in his belief. The trials are in late April, so there's still plenty of time for him to work a program before having to buckle down for the event. Storm is continuing to build his credibility as a singles wrestler by facing the top names in TNA, and building toward the inevitable showdown with Roode. My guess is they continue both this feud and the Hardy feud so look for a heel dominated top of the card.

Prediction: Kurt Angle wins.

Bully Ray vs. Abyss in a Monster’s Ball match: With the stipulation that Abyss must rejoin Immortal if he loses, this match takes on even less suspense than before. Bully Ray understands the hardcore psychology, and might be able to get a decent match out of Abyss, but not enough to make this viewer care about Abyss. I can't see them forcing Abyss to join Immortal against his will as that is the worst storyline imaginable, but this is TNA. Still, I'm picking what I hope.

Prediction: Abyss wins.

Matt Morgan and Crimson vs. Samoa Joe and Magnus for the TNA Tag Titles: The tag title scene in TNA is a total mess right now, and this match proves that. Morgan and Crimson are still headed for a showdown at some point, and Joe and Magnus...well, I have no idea what they are doing with those two. Anything is possible in TNA, so a title change isn't out of the question here, but I wouldn't bet on it.

Prediction: Matt Morgan and Crimson retain the TNA Tag Titles.

Austin Aries vs. Kid Kash vs. Jesse Sorensen vs. Zema Ion for the X Division Championship: This is the match to watch. I generally hate fourways because the formula becomes two guys taking powders while the two others wrestle, only to have frequent changes. But in this case, the move set of these four should lead to some wild spots that at least explain why two guys are out on the floor. I don't see any reason to take the strap off Aries as he is the best thing in that division.

Prediction: Austin Aries retains the X Division Title.

Gail Kim vs. Mickie James for the TNA Knockouts Championship: Mickie and Gail have managed to breathe some new life into the Knockout's division, no small feat. Their match quality has improved greatly, and I expect this one to be a showcase to some degree. There's no way Gail loses the title here, but expect plenty of shenanigans to setup a way for Mickie and someone to take the tag titles soon.

Prediction: Gail Kim retains the TNA Knockouts Championship.

”The Pope” D’Angelo Dinero vs. Devon: File this match under "I could not care less." I don't mean to disparage either man, but this feud has been awful from the start. I assume Devon's son's get involved, hopefully before my eyes bleed, to cost their dad because...well, I have no idea why because this story sucks.

Prediction: The Pope wins with help from Devon's sons.

Gunner vs. Rob Van Dam: If the rumors of WWE's interest in RVD are true, he should lose here. If they aren't, he should still lose. RVD was an innovator back in the day. Now he's a caricature of himself. I don't know why anyone would want him on their roster as he brings absolutely nothing new to the table. Don't be surprised if the brain trust at TNA puts him over to try and convince him to stay, but I'm picking Gunner because he should win, no matter Van Dam's contractual status.

Prediction: Gunner wins.