Wrestlemania: The legacy lives on

Last night saw wrestling company WWE stage Wrestlemania 31 – the biggest event on the wrestling calendar. With millions of fans worldwide viewing the event, it is always seen as a phenomenon. With several surprises and great moments throughout, the event has been greeted with praise by fans. Wrestlemania always seems to deliver – the WWE has proved again what a great company it is.

A record 78,363 fans attended Wrestlemania 31 at the Sun Life Stadium in California, USA. Wrestlemania has turned into an extravanganza in recent years, and it easily the most-looked forward to event for any WWE fan. There is an international audience for each event, while some of the worldwide trends on Twitter since the event have been WWE-related. It is highly impressive how WWE continue to stay relevant, fighting off various challenges from other promotions – Vince McMahon is a genius – he has created a masterpiece.

Highlights at this years’ event included seeing DX and nWo meet in the ring at the same time – something any fan from the Monday Night Wars era would have enjoyed. While The Undertaker returned, this time in a winning effort, while The Rock and UFC favourite Ronda Rousey made appearances. Fan favourite Daniel Bryan won his match, while the biggest surprise of them all saw Seth Rollins cash in his “Money in the bank” briefcase, entering into the main event, where he won the WWE Championship.

Wrestlemania is an incredibly special event. So many of the iconic moments and matches in the illustrious history of WWE have taken place at Wrestlemania. Year in, year out, it never fails to entertain. Next year, it is expected over 100,000 people will watch the event live. While many criticise wrestling for being “fake” – you can’t deny how much of an impact the event has every year.

Overall, the general consensus is that Wrestlemania 31 was the best Wrestlemania in recent memory. There have been rave reviews for the event. WWE seems in good health at the moment, with Vince McMahon and Triple H controlling proceedings, it appears success is still to come in the forthcoming times. WWE continue to be on the top of their game, continuing to thrive, entertaining the masses!

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(‘048’)

The Ultimate Act of Selfishness: Alps Plane Crash

In what can only be called a tragedy, 150 people were killed in the French Alps due to a plane crash. There have been many aviation accidents in recent years, with this one amongst the worst. Since the crash, there has been intense speculation on what caused the plane to crash – it has been revealed a pilot suicide is the cause, in what is an unbelievably selfish act by a man named as Andreas Lubitz.

On Tuesday Germanwings Flight 9525 set off from Barcelona, Spain to Dusseldorf, Germany. During the flight, the Pilot left the cockpit, leaving the co-pilot in the cockpit,and when attempting to return, was locked out. Despite his best efforts, he couldn’t break down the door. The co-pilot was heard to be breathing, meaning he was conscious, as he deliberately brought the plane down. The descent lasted eight minutes, but thankfully, the passengers weren’t aware until the final seconds what was happening. The plane crashed into the alps at almost 400mph.

Details regarding the co-pilot are scarce at this point. But one thing that does look certain is the fact that it was the co-pilot who was responsible for the plane’s crash. If so, this is surely the most selfish thing anyone can do. 150 people died in the crash, that is 150 lives lost, and then you think of the poor families of the deceased – they will never forget this incident and a part of them is gone forever. There are incredible efforts people are going through to identify the bodies, the entire operation is highly costly and uses a lot of manpower.

However the whole thing could have been avoided. It is clear the intention of the co-pilot was suicide. He could have just done so alone, without having to take 149 others with him. It really is a tragedy. It is likely that he was suffering from some sort of mental disorder. Of course it is too early to confirm this, it is just merely a speculative thought, but it also suggests mental health issues need to be looked at further – something already seen as a problem, but there is nothing that can excuse the actions of the co-pilot.

Furthermore, it also says something for the society we live in that the news of Jeremy Clarkson’s departure, coupled with the departure of Zayn Malik from boyband One Direction made for bigger news than the death of 150 people, it is a shame. Suddenly, since details have emerged that it was the co-pilot who caused the crash, there has been much more mainstream reporting of the tragedy.

Overall, whenever 150 lives are lost, it is a real shame. This is a tragic incident which will be remembered for a long time. The circumstances in which the crash took place presents many questions, with none more prevalent than the question over why the co-pilot was so selfish to the others involved. The only way of closing this post is to pay tribute to the 150 people who lost their life in the crash, may they all Rest in Peace.

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(‘047’)

Steven Gerrard: The Other Side

Yesterday in the latest chapter of the rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool, Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was sent off in what is likely to be his final appearance in the fixture. Liverpool fought back admirably to challenge United, but in the end the 2-1 win for United was well deserved. While there is no doubting some of the achievements Gerrard has had in his career, yesterday was an example of the other side of him, an uglier side.

Gerrard entered the game at the beginning of the second half. He immediately flew into a robust challenge on Juan Mata, before Ander Herrera slid in on Gerrard. Gerrard then stamped on the young Herrera in an ugly manner, in a manner as well that could have caused a grave injury. He was then rightfully sent off, with his Liverpool team going on to lose to rivals Manchester United.

Gerrard has been widely condemned for his actions. Even Martin Tyler, who was commentating at the time – a man with a  renowned pro-Liverpool and anti-Manchester United and Chelsea stance on football, was quick to suggest it was a definite red. Tyler did his best, as always, to make proceedings try and even out, with his disappointment clear when Phil Jones was shown a yellow card for an average tackle on Jordan Henderson a few minutes after. Sky Sports continue to fascinate fans by continuing to employ Tyler, despite his monotone and biased attitude ruining games for fans.

This isn’t the first time Gerrard has been involved in an ugly situation. He was spared jail despite assaulting someone on a night out a few years go. Had it been the other way round, with Gerrard being attacked, it is certain the attacker would have been jailed. Gerrard apologised in his post-match interview to the fans and his fellow players, but not to Herrera – the player who was lucky to avoid a broken leg following the challenge. Gerrard has also had numerous other red cards, and has been guilty of over-exuberant celebrations against rivals.

There is no doubting some of the great moments Gerrard has had in a Liverpool shirt. You think back to the games against Olympiakos, cup finals against West Ham and AC Milan – moments that will live long in the minds of Liverpool fans. He has been a great Captain for them, but it appears the time is about right for him to go. He of course looks likely to go without a Premier League medal, but that was obviously never meant to be, but ultimately, Liverpool will surely prove to be better off without him.

It is a shame when someone supposed to be a role model does such an ugly thing, seeing the conduct of the Liverpool players throughout yesterday, you cant help but feel the much classier Man Utd side deserved their win. I will leave you with a rather humorous heat map of Gerrard’s efforts.

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(‘046’)

Jeremy Clarkson: The Debate

INTRODUCTION
In light of the recent controversy against Jeremy Clarkson, host of the Internationally-renowned TV show Top Gear, there is a debate over whether or not the BBC will choose to keep Clarkson. After a string of controversies, the latest accusation is that Clarkson punched a Director, leading to a suspension.

TOP GEAR
Clarkson is known for his role alongside James May and Richard Hammond on Top Gear. Top Gear is a British motoring show with a huge International audience. The next episode was due to be released Sunday, though the episode has since been pulled in reaction to the incident.

PAST CONTROVERSIES
As mentioned in the Introduction – Clarkson is no stranger to controversy. There have been numerous accusations that Clarkson is a racist, noticeably referring to a Thai man as a “slope”, while also using the “N” word in a rhyme. The BBC have been forced to apologise to the Mexican Ambassador to the United Kingdom before thanks to his outbursts, while also partaking in derogatory comments about lorry drivers. He even suggested at one point, people striking in the Public sector should be “executed in front of their families.” Perhaps most infamously, Top Gear nearly sparked a riot with their actions in Argentina, with the film crew forced to evacuate after being attacked.

THE CASE TO REINSTATE HIM
An online petition supporting Clarkson has gained over 800,000 signatures calling for the BBC to reinstate him. His popularity is obvious – Top Gear is one of the most-watched shows around the world. The BBC have also stood by Clarkson throughout his past controversies, so why cant they stand by him this time – considering it is not as bad as some of the previous controversies. Top Gear is also one of the top-money spinners for the BBC, they would suffer as a consequence of letting Clarkson go.

THE CASE AGAINST HIM
It is apparent that through the past controversies, Clarkson is hardly the most pleasant man. Numerous racial slurs, homophobic comments and blatant tasteless comments hardly set a good example for someone in the public eye. While the BBC have stood by him, how much longer can they? The controversies continue to roll on, there seems to be no stopping them. In the world of s[port, if a player is embroiled in a controversy, the saying “no player is bigger than the club” comes to fruition, this could be the same for the BBC – as much as Clarkson is important. the BBC would survive without him.

CONCLUSION
A controversy involving Jeremy Clarkson is barely something new – however you would presume there is only so much patience the BBC can have. But in an industry dominated by money, there is no doubting the appeal of Top Gear, and judging by the vast array of signatures on the before-mentioned petition – Clarkson as well. It is a difficult situation for the BBC, but one would expect to see Clarkson back on TV before long, but stranger things have happened. Only time will tell.

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(‘045’)

University: Challenging the stereotype

University – a place where academic-minds have freedom to study what they want, surrounded by fantastic buildings and near-limitless resources, a place where world-class education can take place. However, at University, after spending six months here so far, I would question whether or not some people just attend a University for the night-life. The culture of going out and partying-hard seems synonymous with University, but is it really necessary?

Picture Credit: Social-Student

I am not personally one to go out most nights in a week with friends and drink copious amounts of alcohol. I attended University in order to enhance my skills in my subject area and ultimately, attain a degree for which I believe will lead to an improved life for me. Coming to the University I am currently attending, I was hugely excited to meet fellow students. However I was left disappointed. Considering how high up the University was in the League Rankings, I was unpleasantly surprised!

As mentioned, the culture is that alcohol is the most important thing in University life. Although socialising is great, sometimes people can take it a bit too far. Spending most evenings in the “Students Union” or out at one of the local nightclubs, it appears to me as dull and repetitive. Of course, it is each to their own and they are entitled to do whatever they like with their life. I remember when members of the flat and I stayed in one night and opted to play a board game, one commented how “sad” we had become. There lies the problem. Furthermore, it is almost expected that a student will attend the “Union” when open.

However having, as already mentioned, studied at University for six months, despite not going out frequently, I have had a fine time and work take the time in the evenings to avoid work and take a break. There is nothing wrong with staying in as opposed to going out at every opportunity. It should also be noted that I have no issue with people who do go out, as I mentioned they have the right to do what they want. I think overall what is most important in life is to be happy. If going out every day makes you happy – they should go ahead with it. But I would question those who come to University simply for the social side of it.

Overall, University is a fantastic place to be. Many people say that the University years are the best of their lives. I would tend to disagree, however when looking back in a few years I may think differently. What makes it great is the freedom that is involved. But this freedom doesn’t mean you have to go out every day consuming alcohol. Rather, it can be a place where people with strong-minds and a strong ethic for work can strive.

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(‘044’)

Acer Aspire Switch 10: Review

INTRODUCTION
With hybrid tablet/laptop devices very much in fashion at the moment, for anyone looking to purchase a reasonably-priced option, the Acer Aspire Switch 10 is one worth looking at. Available at below £300 and capable of completing a high amount of tasks, this is a strong option.

DESIGN
With the detachable keyboard included, it means that this can work as both a laptop and a tablet. Removing the keyboard is very easy, as is applying it. The tablet is average size in line with what is expected, with the keyboard slightly smaller than a general laptop keyboard, but the spaced out keys and optimal design are impressive and allow easy adaptability.

WINDOWS 8.1 & MICROSOFT OFFICE
Perhaps what is most interesting is that it offers a full, 32-bit version of Windows 8.1. Having this operating system works well on the tablet. Any x86 application can be ran, with another huge plus having Microsoft Office included – something that can cost over £100 on its own. With Intel included, it results in a strong performance.

PERFORMANCE
While I mentioned that Intel plays a part in the tablet, there is only a certain amount it can do. Compared to other hybrids such as the Microsoft Surface, there is a noticeable difference in the two. The battery is strong, with 3-4 hours in reality. The tablet can sometimes struggle to complete too many tasks at once – it certainly isn’t a laptop, that is something to remember. If you are someone who wants to work on multiple tasks at once, this probably isn’t the most sensible option for you. The media element is very strong for the tablet, with streaming of high quality.

FEATURES
As mentioned, Microsoft Office – which includes Excel, Powerpoint, Word and OneNote, comes pre-loaded on the tablet. A downside is some Acer bloatware, which takes up some of the 32GB of data. But with this hybrid comes a high quality device which is sure to entertain.

PRICE
Under £300, with the general price between £270 and £300. Available from a wide range of stores and online, including John Lewis and Amazon.

VERDICT
The Acer Aspire witch 10 is certainly not a laptop or computer, and it is far away quality-wise from the Microsoft Surface. However, this is a hybrid that is highly portable, excellent value for money, and useful for the casual user of a laptop. I am yet to encounter a problem with it and would highly recommend this product.

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(‘043’)