Chicago Sun-Times: Two champs unable to Survive

Most people would have said that neither the WWE nor World titles would change hands at last Sunday's "Survivor Series" PPV, but by the time the Elimination Chamber match was over, both Brock Lesner and HHH were leaving Madison Square Garden without their gold.

As for Lesner, he suffered a cracked rib at a house show more than a week ago, and it became clear to the WWE he would be out for about six weeks--and they could not go that long without having the "SmackDown" title defended. Despite their desire to keep the Lesner mystique alive and to show him as an unbeatable force, the time had come to hand the Next Big Thing his first career loss.

The beneficiary was the Big Show, who over the past four months has gone from forgotten man to world champion once again. Say what you will about the Big Show, but after less than a decade in the wrestling business, he has quite an impressive resume.

As for HHH, he survived four of five opponents in the Elimination Chamber, but for the second straight time at a major PPV, he fell victim to the Sweet Chin Music and was pinned by Shawn Michaels. HBK, an unlikely title winner, will add spark to the "Raw" brand as champion, but he could be looking at a tough road in the coming weeks.

Many thought Rob Van Dam was the most impressive participant and went a long way in proving he is ready for a run as a world champion. RVD will get his chance at Michaels and the title on this week's "Raw" show.

AROUND THE RING: Word is the McMahon family is happy with the way the roster split has gone and has no plans to bring "Raw" and "SmackDown" together. ... Good to see the Dudleys back together as Bubba and D-Von should become big-time players again. Wonder where Spike will fit in as six-man tag matches have just about run their course. ... On the NWA-TNA show Wednesday, Jeff Jarrett defeated Ron Killings to win the World title, and Mr. Wrestling III was revealed as Vince Russo.

HOTLINE: I have stunning news on Sting, Goldberg and Hulk Hogan all returning to the ring at the same time, and the latest on Steve Austin planning a surprise return at the "Royal Rumble." All that and more on the hotline: (900) 990-SLAM ($2 per minute).