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Post by Beejus on Feb 23, 2020 15:45:10 GMT 1
(Originally posted June 28, 2018)Six Months Later: Jeremy Borash’s Report of World Championship Wrestling in 2001
In December of 2000, Eric Bischoff was just another name in the long list of bookers who had come and gone in wrestling. Not even in wrestling in general, a long list just from WCW. His name was right in the list alongside those like Dusty Rhodes, Jim Herd, Ole Anderson, Kevin Sullivan, and Vince Russo as the men who tried to take on Vince McMahon and failed. But a second chance came when Ted Turner was in the process of being voted out of his own company and decided that selling to Eric – for the cost of a dollar – was the right thing to do in order to keep his spirit alive in the “rasslin” company that he had funded since 1988.
Despite some initial growing pains dealing with the finances of having Turner Era contracts without Turner Era money and also dealing with networks who didn’t want to air the company who had lost the Monday Night War, Eric forged ahead with Nitro and Thunder on TNT and TBS until their TV deals ended. Those first three months of the year saw “Big Poppa Pump” Scott Steiner run roughshod over the landscape of WCW. Ever since his brother Rick joined him back at Sin, he has taken on Sid Vicious, the returning Booker T, and both Kevin Nash and Diamond Dallas Page, all while dealing with “The Nature Boss” Ric Flair as CEO as Flair tried to make Steiner a great champion in the vein of Harley Race, Dusty Rhodes, and himself. Steiner’s reign of terror has cost WCW one of it’s greatest stars, as Diamond Dallas Page hasn’t been seen in WCW since Greed when he was beaten by “The Big Bad Booty Daddy.” On the final Nitro of the TNT Era, Steiner defeated Kevin Nash in a steel cage match to fully secure just how dominant he has been in the past year. Once that era had ended with The Big Bang, WCW went dark for two weeks before The Big Bang, and thanks to Jerry and Jeff Jarrett, Eric was able to find WCW Nitro a brand new home: as a live weekly pay-per-view every Friday evening!
WCW Friday Nitro is definitely the place to be for all the best pro wrestling action in the world. Hosted by a three-man commentary team of lead announcer “Iron” Mike Tenay, play-by-play analyst Scott Hudson, and the legendary wisdom of “Double A” Arn Anderson, Nitro comes to you live every week from the Hard Rock Cafe in Las Vegas, Nevada! And don’t forget the live pre-show, mid-show, and post-show reports from Tony Schiavone and The WCW Panel! The Panel consists of the greatest analyst in the history of the sport Tony Schiavone, the youthful energy of Chris Lovey, my mentor and favorite teacher ever “Mean” Gene Okerlund, myself, and the streetwise stylings of former ten time WCW World Tag Team champion Stevie Ray.
Since WCW Friday Nitro began to air, Scott Steiner continued to have a lot of his plate. Tully Blanchard came out of retirement for one night only at WCW Envy to teach Steiner some respect, but Steiner ended up putting Blanchard right back on the shelf. This has brought out the competitive spirit of “The Nature Boy” who discarded his suit and tie for a robe and wrestling boots again, being dismissed as WCW CEO in order to try winning that elusive seventeenth World title win. He defeated Steiner at The Great American Bash: Gluttony, but it was only by disqualification. On the final Nitro of June, Eric Bischoff announced a six man tag team Iron Man Challenge match to determine the true rankings for the WCW World Heavyweight championship, as the Steiner Brothers team with Animal to take on Ric Flair, Dustin Rhodes, and the man who earned a number one contendership, Sting, at Bash at the Beach: Lust for the Gold!
In the entirety of the year, Scott Steiner has had one itch that he could not scratch in six months: that being “Da Man” Goldberg, who has defeated Steiner practically every time the two have been in the ring under non-title rules. Why non-title? Because even though Vince Russo left the company, the documents he drew up forcing Goldberg to once again win a consecutive streak of victories like he did in 1998 were iron-clad. This means Goldberg cannot challenge for the WCW World championship until he has won 176 matches in a row! As of the start of July, he is well on his way to that goal, having earned 106 wins. He took on the narcissistic duo of Totally Buff, the veteran powerhouse Animal, and non-title wins over Scott Steiner through the first six events of the year. The streak looks as though it could go the distance, as Goldberg has just ended the WCW career of Sid Vicious during a Caged Heat match on the final Nitro of June. But is Kevin Nash looking to break the streak for a second time, or are his passive-aggressive jabs just “Big Sexy” being his usual cocky self?
A feud that dominated the airwaves since January dealt with the Natural Born Thrillers. At the beginning of the year, the five Power Plant graduates were a well-oiled machine. But not long after that, the wheels fell off the machine as Mike Sanders bailed on his companions at SuperBrawl: Revenge. Sean O’Haire stepped forward and as “leader” of the group he did what he felt needed done by kicking Shawn Stasiak from it’s ranks. But Stasiak had a backup plan, joining up with Lance Storm’s Team Canada to get back at them. Rechristening his group as The World, Storm and Stasiak took away the World Tag Team championships from the NBT. But with the help of Booker T, whom Storm defeated on the final episode of WCW Thunder, O’Haire and Jindrak won the belts back on the final Nitro on TNT. Since then, Booker and the Thrillers squared off with The World for months. Booker defeated Storm in a Pride match, forcing Lance to be censored about his beliefs that Canadians are better than Americans, but Lance followed that up by winning the Envy match. He still has not cashed in either his Tag Team title match against O’Haire or the title match he won by virtue of winning the bout. (Who knows what he did with Dusty Rhodes’s cowboy boots.) Sid Vicious found himself in the fray as he feuded with Mike Awesome, and it culminated at the Great American Bash in a WarGames match where the losing team would have to disband. Booker won the bout by forcing Storm to black out, causing the end of The World and of this long running feud. Where everyone goes from here is anyone’s guess, but Storm immediately distanced himself from all his former stablemates by calling them “losers” and saying that he is going to never burden himself with losers again.
Failing at their bid to retire Goldberg, Totally Buff found themselves doing whatever they could to make an impact in the new era of WCW. To this end, they assaulted Kevin Nash repeatedly, who they claimed had no friends left to help him in WCW and should just leave along with Page and Scott Hall. But after months of being gouged by Luger, Bagwell, and Madusa, Nash proved that you don’t need friends, just people who dislike Totally Buff more than they do you, as he and Goldberg sent Totally Buff to lick their wounds at Great American Bash: Gluttony. On the final week of June, Luger and Bagwell attacked the Natural Born Thrillers; questions remain about why they did so at this time, but given the two have a penchant for bragging, it likely will not be long until they reveal their reasoning.
At The Big Bang, Eric Bischoff announced the closure of two championship divisions to make way for a new one. The WCW Cruiserweight and WCW Hardcore titles were to be no more, and in their place is the brand new WCW X-Division. The X-Division is all about no limits, and none personify that more than the first champion did, Rey Mysterio Jr. Rey defended the title with pride, as his Filthy Animals friends backed him up. However, the words of Vampiro seeped into the ear of Billy Kidman, who decimated Mysterio and Konnan in what appeared to be a jealous rage, joining up with Vampiro in his Dark Eden. The Dark Eden, consisting of Vampiro, Kanyon, and Daffney, welcomed Kidman with open arms, saying that his deliverance was soon at hand. (Though hopefully not the same deliverance that was given to Crowbar, whom we last saw in a room filling with blood, and no one has checked if he ever got out!) Vampiro drove a wedge between the Animals using Kidman’s desire to be better than just “Rey’s buddy” and in the process drove a wedge between longtime friends Mysterio and Konnan, who took an opportunity during a triple threat match between the three and won the X-Division title from Rey at the Great American Bash. With the Filthy Animals a distant memory, this fire doesn’t seem to be settling down anytime soon. But who will come out with deliverance via the Dark Eden?
Somewhere along the line, Eric Bischoff found himself a small sum of money. WCW had bled money in the past, but in January of 2001, it lost over six million dollars! This is all due in part to some of the contracts that are holdovers from the Ted Turner Era, contracts so profitable to it’s stars that they are nearly bankrupting the company. But in May, Eric’s luck changed, and somehow he got a loan for an undisclosed amount from an undisclosed source. WCW’s luck is changing, and thanks to that loan and the support of the fans who order WCW Friday Nitro each week as well as it’s events each and every month, we are coming back to the top of the wrestling world!
One of the criticisms WCW has always faced was it’s reliance on older stars who made their names elsewhere and then came to WCW’s shores. This has changed over the last year, but especially in the past six months. There have been several new debuts to WCW in the past few months, and most of them members of the exciting new X-Division. Young AJ Styles has been one of the hottest prospects in pro wrestling in the last few years, and is learning very quickly. Simon Diamond and C.W. debuted as The Problem Solvers, with Simon having taken Disqo under his wing as a protege of the “Simon’s Self-Help” manual. Kid Kash joined WCW and found himself at odds with Chavo Guerrero Jr. and his new partner Kaz Hayashi, with Kash finding a partner of his own in fellow redneck Jamie Knoble. Jimmy Snuka brought his son Jimmy Snuka Jr. to WCW, and the second generation star has found himself an incredible windfall when he won the Gluttony match. Will he get used to luxury by the time six more months have passed? Leia Meow, tired of being embarrassed by Norman Smiley, brought in a secret weapon from the Orient in “Japanese Buzzsaw” Yoshihiro Tajiri, and that wild man could go after anyone next! The latest new face to appear is one who had been hyped for months, and on the final Nitro of June, Low-Ki finally made his debut. The sky could be the limit for this young star!
Since December, alliances ended such as the Misfits in Action, Filthy Animals, Team Canada/The World, and the Jung Dragons. Some others went into hiding such as the Mamalukes and 2 Count. Others remained, like the core three members of the Natural Born Thrillers, Kronik, and Totally Buff, and new ones grew, like Dark Eden, The Future, Rebel Pride, and the Problem Solvers. But what is coming in the next six months for the stars of World Championship Wrestling? Keep watching and see, fans!
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Post by Beejus on Feb 23, 2020 17:55:07 GMT 1
(Originally posted June 28, 2018)
WCW: July 1st, 2001 WCW Championships
WCW World Heavyweight Championship
Current Champion: “Big Poppa Pump” Scott Steiner
Held Since: November 26th, 2000 (WCW Mayhem)
Previous Champion: Booker T
WCW World Tag Team Championships
Current 3-Time Champions: Mark Jindrak (3) & Sean O’Haire (4)
Held Since: March 26, 2001 (WCW Nitro)
Previous Champions: Lance Storm and Shawn Stasiak
WCW United States Championship
Current 4-Time Champion: Jeff Jarrett
Held Since: March 18th, 2001 (WCW Greed)
Previous Champion: General Rection
WCW X Division Championship
Current Champion: Konnan
Held Since: June 17, 2001 (WCW Great American Bash: Gluttony)
Previous Champion: Rey Mysterio, Jr.
On-Screen Authority Figure
Active Roster
–
Managers Daffney (Crowbar) – Jimmy Snuka (Jimmy Snuka Jr.) – Leia Meow (Yoshihiro Tajiri and Yang) – Madusa (Totally Buff) – – Midajah (Scott Steiner) – Stacy Kiebler
WCW Broadcast Team
WCW Officials Charles Robinson – Mark Johnson – Nick Patrick – Rudy Charles
Backstage Road Agents Harley Race – Jerry Jarrett – Johnny Ace – Paul Orndorff – Tully Blanchard
Shawn Stasiak (NWA: Wildside)
Tylene (between storylines)
Tygress (between storylines)
WCW Creative Meeting
Franchise Players 1. Goldberg 2. Ric Flair 3. Booker T 4. Scott Steiner 5. Sting
Next Big Things 1. Mark Jindrak 2. Shane Helms
Hot Prospects 1. Rey Mysterio Jr. 2. Yang 3. Mark Jindrak 4. Jamie Knoble 5. AJ Styles
Talk the Talk 1. Ric Flair 2. Kevin Nash 3. Booker T 4. Scott Steiner 5. Sting
Show Stoppers 1. Rey Mysterio Jr. 2. Booker T 3. Scott Steiner 4. Goldberg 5. Sting
Ring Generals 1. Rey Mysterio Jr. 2. Lance Storm 3. Jeff Jarrett 4. Chavo Guerrero Jr. 5. Shane Douglas
Time Decline 1. Jimmy Snuka 2. Ric Flair 3. Animal 4. Lex Luger 5. Rick Steiner
Hidden Gems 1. Ron Killings 2. Ken Anderson 3. Trent Acid 4. Kevin Steen 5. Joey Ryan
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Post by Beejus on Feb 23, 2020 18:05:36 GMT 1
(Originally posted June 28, 2018)WWF Roster: July 1, 2001
WWF Championships
WWF Championship
Current 5-Time Champion: “Stone Cold” Steve Austin
Held Since: April 1st, 2001 (WWF WrestleMania X-7)
Previous Champion: The Rock
WWF Tag Team Championships
Current Champions: Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho
Held Since: May 26th, 2001 (WWF RAW is WAR)
Previous Champions: The Power Trip
WWF Intercontinental Championship
Current Champion: Diamond Dallas Page
Held Since: May 20th, 2001 (WWF Judgment Day)
Previous Champion: Triple H
WWF European Championship
Current Champion: Edge
Held Since: May 21st, 2001 (WWF RAW is WAR)
Previous Champion: Billy Gunn
WWF Hardcore Championship
Current Champion: Rob Van Dam
Held Since: April 29th, 2001 (WWF Backlash)
Previous Champion: Jeff Hardy
WWF Light Heavyweight Championship
Current Champion: Jerry Lynn
Held Since: March 6th (aired March 11th), 2001 (WWF Heat)
Previous Champion: Dean Malenko
WWF Women’s Championship
Current Champion: Chyna
Held Since: April 1st, 2001 (WWF WrestleMania X-7)
Previous Champion: Ivory
WWF EmployeesOn-Screen Authority FiguresOwner of the WWF: Mr. Vince McMahon CEO of the WWF: Linda McMahon WWF Commissioner: Shane McMahon 25% Share of the WWF: Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley (manages Triple H) Active Roster: Male RosterThe Acolytes: Faarooq & Bradshaw – The Big Show – “The One” Billy Gunn – The Brothers of Destruction: “The Big Red Machine” Kane and “The American Bad Ass” The Undertaker – “The Rabid Wolverine” Chris Benoit – “Y2J” Chris Jericho – Crash Holly – Diamond Dallas Page – The Dudley Boyz: Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley – “Latino Heat” Eddie Guerrero – Edge – Funaki – The Godfather – Hardcore Holly – The Hardy Boyz: Matt & Jeff Hardy – The Island Tribe: “Bad Man” Rikishi & Haku – The Power Trip: “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and “The Game” Triple H – Raven – The Radicalz: Dean Malenko & Perry Saturn – “The Man Beast” Rhyno – “Mr. Monday Night” Rob Van Dam – Spike Dudley – “Lethal Weapon” Steve Blackman – Test – Too Cool: Grandmaster Sexay & Scotty 2 Hotty – Val Venis – William Regal – X-Factor: Albert & Justin Credible Active Roster: Female RosterIvory – Lita (manages Matt Hardy) – Molly Holly (manages Spike Dudley) – Trish Stratus Managers
Debra (appears backstage with Steve Austin) – Terri
WWF Broadcast Team
Howard “The Fink” Finkel – Jim Ross – Jonathan Coachman – Lilian Garcia – Michael Cole – Paul Heyman – Tazz
WWF Officials
Chad Patton – Earl Hebner – Jack Doan – Jim Korderas – Mike Chioda – Teddy Long – Tim White
Backstage Road Agents
Bruce Prichard – Gerald Brisco – Michael Hayes – Pat Patterson – Paul Bearer – Sgt. Slaughter – Steve Lombardi
Absent from Television
Al Snow (sporadic appearances while filming Tough Enough)
The Big Boss Man (legitimate injury)
Christian (legitimate injury)
Chyna (sitting out contract)
D’Lo (HWA)
Jacqueline (OVW while filming Tough Enough)
Jerry Lynn (legitimate injury)
Kurt Angle (selling injuries)
Mark Henry (OVW)
Mick Foley (sporadic appearances)
Shawn Michaels (rehab)
Steven Richards (OVW)
The Rock (storyline suspension, filming The Scorpion King)
X-Pac (rehab)
WWF Creative Meeting
Franchise Players 1. Steve Austin 2. Triple H 3. Chris Jericho 4. The Undertaker 5. Diamond Dallas Page
Next Big Things 1. Jeff Hardy 2. Rhyno 3. Edge 4. Trish Stratus 5. Scotty 2 Hotty
Hot Prospects 1. Rhyno 2. Matt Hardy 3. Trish Stratus 4. Lita 5. Grand Master Sexay
Talk the Talk 1. The Rock 2. Steve Austin 3. Vince McMahon 4. Kurt Angle 5. Triple H
Show Stoppers 1. Chris Jericho 2. Chris Benoit 3. Jeff Hardy 4. Eddie Guerrero 5. Triple H
Ring Generals 1. Chris Benoit 2. Triple H 3. Chris Jericho 4. Eddie Guerrero 5. William Regal
Time Decline 1. Faarooq 2. Diamond Dallas Page
Hidden Gems 1. Lizzy Valentine 2. Trent Acid 3. Kevin Steen 4. Joey Ryan 5. Johnny Swinger
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Post by Beejus on Feb 23, 2020 18:35:18 GMT 1
(WCW Bash at the Beach was originally posted August 8, 2018)July 2001: WCW Bash at the Beach: Lust for the Gold
In the rest of June and July, Eric Bischoff had a lot of responsibility placed back in his lap. Ric Flair was now an active participant again, meaning he could no longer serve as the CEO of WCW, so with Bischoff as the main power in the company (along with the quiet re-emergence of “The Cat” Ernest Miller as the commissioner, but that’s not what we are talking about right here) it means Eric had to step back on-screen to determine who would be getting the next World’s Heavyweight championship shot. But there are a lot of names wanting to throw their name into that field…
“Big Poppa Pump” Scott Steiner, the current reigning champion…
“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair, who defeated Steiner by disqualification at the Great American Bash…
“Da Man” Goldberg, who is contractually unable to have a match for the title, but is breathing down Steiner’s neck…
“The DFG” Rick Steiner, who is protecting his brother’s championship reign…
“The Franchise of WCW” Sting, winner of a number one contender’s bout…
“The Road Warrior” Animal, out to get singles gold that he’s never tasted before…
“The Prodigal Son” Dustin Rhodes, who wants to win the title that has eluded him all his career…
… and Booker T, who has not properly gotten revenge on Steiner as he wrestled him to a time limit draw at SuperBrawl: Revenge.
Eric’s hands are tied as regards to Goldberg, and he tells Booker T that he has “other plans” for him, but the other five contenders could all stake their claim. So with this in mind, Eric sets up a unique match: a six man tag team, thirty minute long Iron Man match! He says that this match will help him determine the rankings, as he will be taking the amount of falls each man attains during the match into account. This ties all three feuds together with one bow (Steiner/Flair, Steiner/Rhodes, and Sting/Animal) with one common goal of going after the World championship. One thing is for sure; the Lust for the Gold will drive all six of these competitors!
Last month at The Great American Bash: Gluttony, Goldberg stepped in to team with Kevin Nash, defeating Totally Buff. The next Nitro, however, things got a little more tense, as their past battles started to come up when they took time to talk, namely when Goldberg ripped up Scott Hall’s WCW contract and Kevin Nash ending Goldberg’s first undefeated streak. Goldberg took on Sid Vicious on the final Nitro of June, sending him out of the company in a Caged Heat match, but Nash was seen giving Goldberg some potentially sarcastic applause afterwards. This didn’t sit well with “Da Man” who says that he is setting out to take down his potentially biggest challenges as he closes in on his “magic number” of 174 wins. Goldberg is looking for #110 at WCW Bash at the Beach!
Booker T had a lot of qualities that should have placed him in the main event scene for Bash at the Beach this year, but Eric Bischoff’s logic was rather sound in that Booker had just spent the better part of the springtime chasing around Lance Storm and The World rather than chasing the title. Eric had an idea, though, and that idea led to Booker announcing that he would be facing “The Chosen One” Jeff Jarrett for the WCW United States Heavyweight championship in an attempt to become the newest WCW grand slam champion! Jarrett refused to go down easily though, utilizing his “Acoustic Equalizer” to try and harm Booker and his chances at the gold. These two met in the main event of WCW Bash at the Beach last year with gold on the line, and Booker came out on top. Will history repeat itself, or will “The Chosen One” continue to squeak by his challengers?
Totally Buff have decided to concentrate more on being a successful tag team rather than just going after people, and have focused their target exclusively on the Natural Born Thrillers. Sean O’Haire and Mark Jindrak have taken this challenge head-on, with Chuck Palumbo being behind them but a little sidetracked with what could be a budding romance with the lovely Stacy Kiebler. “The Total Package” and “Buff Daddy” want some gold around their waists to show off, can the young Thrillers withstand the veterans or will that veteran cunning be too much?
The split of the Filthy Animals has been very messy, and it has led to two separate matches taking place at WCW Bash at the Beach. Newly crowned WCW X Division champion Konnan had gone on record as saying he planned to give Rey Mysterio Jr. the first big shot at the title, but Billy Kidman goaded Konnan into giving him the shot instead. Mysterio, meanwhile, has gained a match against one of Vampiro’s earliest disciples, Kanyon. Will Konnan and Mysterio get some revenge, or will Dark Eden lead them towards Vampiro’s so-called redemption?
“The Franchise” Shane Douglas has a new focus: he claims that he is getting screwed over by management, as those on top of WCW are trying to overlook him in favor of the new, younger talent. This includes blue chip prospects such as AJ Styles, whom Douglas has begun lambasting as a “young punk” who needs taught respect. The two are set to meet in a Two Out of Three Falls match at WCW Bash at the Beach!
Lance Storm has shed himself of all his cohorts, calling them “losers” and he won’t be surrounded by losers anymore. Storm says that he is the greatest technical wrestler in WCW, but those words have caught the ear of “The Cat” Ernest Miller, who is also one to call himself “the greatest.” The straight-laced Storm takes offense to Miller’s entire fun-loving personality, and there’s a match between them set up for WCW Bash at the Beach.
Kronik are all about “breaking necks and cashing checks,” but recently they weren’t given a payment by the former General Rection, Hugh Morrus. Hugh has been undergoing quite a change in demeanor ever since losing the Misfits in Action, but he has said that he has a partner to take on Kronik in a Street Fight at WCW Bash at the Beach!
Other happenings from the past month: Kid Kash finally defeated Chavo Guerrero Jr.; Jimmy Snuka Jr. seems to be starting to get used to the luxury that the Gluttony match is starting to award him; Low Ki debuted, impressing many with his skills.
Welcome, fans, to The WCW Worldwide Live Pre-Show!
The WCW Worldwide Panel open the Live Pre-Show by talking about the history of WCW Bash at the Beach, discussing things that have happened in WCW each year at the event. (Rating: D+)
Shane Helms and Low Ki defeated The Future (Rating: C-)
The Snukas are seen watching the show from their skybox (Rating: D)
Video Replay: Eric Bischoff announces the six-man tag team Iron Man match (Rating: B)
The WCW Worldwide Panel talks about the six-man tag team Iron Man match (Rating: C)
The Problem Solvers defeated Norman Smiley and Rebel Pride (Rating: C)
Mike Awesome’s call out gives him Finlay, a brawl ensues leading into a hardcore match (Rating: C)
Mike Awesome defeated Fit Finlay in a Hardcore match (Rating: B-)
Video History of Goldberg vs. Kevin Nash (Rating: B+)
The WCW Worldwide Panel talk about tonight’s event, urging everyone to order now! (Rating: C)WCW Bash at the Beach: Lust for the Gold
Shown Live on July 15, 2001 (Week 2)
Held at: The Long Beach Arena in Long Beach, California (South West)
Announcers: Mike Tenay, Scott Hudson, and Arn Anderson
Attendance: 13,500 people (sold out!)
PPV Rating: 0.09
TV Rating: 0.52
Show Rating: B
This show has improved our popularity in 8 regions.
Vampiro narrates the opening video (Rating: B-)
“Lust is a powerful tool. It drives men. It pushes you to great lengths. It can force you into situations you never would have imagined. Lust can destroy souls as your morals collapse under the weight of your own desires, whether what you are chasing is love, money, or respect. Your lust sickens me. Your mind rots. Your body is left impure. Your soul is sold for whatever petty object that you think you need. Tonight, the beach is the scene where lust takes shape. It will make you feel things… want things… and when your lust takes control, you will never be the same…”
KroniK defeated Hugh Morrus and Lash Leroux in a Street Fight match in 4:49 when Lash is given High Times (Rating: B-)
Gene Okerlund interview with Ric Flair on Scott Steiner (Rating: B)
Billy Kidman defeated Konnan in 4:32 for the WCW X Division title following a low blow and the Kid Krusher (Rating: C+)
The Steiner Brothers promo on Flair and Dustin Rhodes (Rating: B+)
Lance Storm defeated Ernest Miller with the Maple Leaf in 2:40 (Rating: C-)
“Mean” Gene and Jeremy discuss that Booker T plans on finishing his grand slam tonight by winning the US title (Rating: C)
Shane Douglas defeated AJ Styles in a Two Out Of Three Falls match at 17:05 (Rating: C+)
Jindrak & O’Haire defeated Totally Buff in 6:43 to retain the WCW World Tag Team titles, Madusa seems very frustrated and leaves! (Rating: B-)
Jeff Jarrett in-ring promo on Booker T (Rating: B-)
Booker T defeated Jeff Jarrett in 23:29 for the WCW United States Heavyweight title after Curt Hennig distracts Jarrett (Rating: B)
Lust Bikini Contest sees Vampiro try to ruin it; Palumbo chases him out to start their match (Rating: C)
In an impromptu match, Vampiro defeated Chuck Palumbo at 3:53 (Rating: C-)
The WCW Worldwide Panel talks about what we have seen throughout the evening (Rating: C)
Upset with how things went in their match earlier, Hugh Morrus brutally assaults Lash Leroux, powerbombing him through a catering table! (Rating: C)
Sting is in a dark room, he can’t wait for SHOWTIME (Rating: B)
Rey Mysterio Jr. defeated Kanyon by an intentional count out at 6:39 (Rating: C+)
Mysterio tells the camera that he’s coming for Kidman and Vampiro next! (Rating: C)
The Problem Solvers barge into the skybox and after an argument, CW lays out Snuka Jr! (Rating: C-)
G&B int: Dustin Rhodes wants to take a bite out of “The DFG” (Rating: B-)
A group of wrestlers are seen backstage clamoring around a monitor, wanting to see Goldberg and Kevin Nash (Rating: D+)
Goldberg says that Nash apparently still isn’t here, so open challenge; Jake Roberts accepts it! (Rating: B+)
Goldberg defeated Jake Roberts in 7:26, netting win #110 (Rating: B-)
David Penzer goes over the rules of the main event (Rating: B)
Animal and The Steiner Brothers defeated Ric Flair, Sting and Dustin Rhodes in a 30 Min. Iron Man match at 7-6, with Ric Flair having won the most falls in the match (Rating: B)Hold onto your hats, ladies and gentlemen; it is the WCW Worldwide Live Post-Show!
The Steiner Brothers scream at the camera about how great they are (Rating: B)
The WCW Worldwide Panel talk about the main event (Rating: C+)
Scott Hudson catches Ric Flair, who is disappointed at losing the bout, but excited at winning the falls (Rating: B-)
The WCW Worldwide Panel discuss Booker T winning the US title (Rating: D+)
Camera catch up with Jake Roberts, who puts over Goldberg (Rating: B)
The WCW Worldwide Panel wonder what happened to Kevin Nash (Rating: C)
The WCW Worldwide Panel thanks everyone for tuning in, saying that next month is WCW Wrath! (Rating: D+)
Eric had some head scratching occurrences happen not long before the Bash at the Beach, one being that despite knowing that he had sent a new contract to Tully Blanchard, Tully’s deal expired without it having been even looked over; and no one seems to be letting him speak to Blanchard to find out what happened. Also, Kevin Nash no-showed Bash at the Beach, which was meant to be a huge bout between Nash and Goldberg. This left WCW scrambling, with Jake Roberts being called in. However, much like Jerry Tuite did the week before, Roberts wrestled Goldberg while under the influence of his personal demons, and both were relieved of their duties in the company because of it.
But in good news, Eric was able to bring Curt Hennig back to WCW, and Hugh Morrus completed a very successful heel turn that would make him into a Bully. The next Nitro, Morrus would state that he never started calling himself “Hugh Morrus” again, everyone just assumed that he wanted that name again. He said that he isn’t going to be anyone’s funny business anymore, changing his name to the simplistic yet oddly satisfying handle of Big Bill.
However, the biggest shock was yet to come. Right at the time that Eric was to announce the Wrath match for the following event, the WWF announced a bout that is, at it’s core nature, the exact same match style, with minor changes. This, along with a bunch of the other things that have happened recently between the two companies, has led Eric to believe that there is most definitely a mole sunken deep inside World Championship Wrestling!
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Post by Beejus on Feb 23, 2020 18:40:10 GMT 1
(WWF Fully Loaded was originally posted on September 28, 2018)July 2018: WWF Fully Loaded
Roll the dice, it’s Fully Loaded! The Gund Arena is a sold out 15,000 strong for the hottest pay-per-view of July!
The show opened with the European championship being defended, as Edge took on “The One” Billy Gunn. Gunn nearly regained the title using his strength advantage, but Edge fought back and retained his title with a well placed spear – picking up a rare clean victory, and one that he didn’t stick around to brag about.
Backstage, the Power Trip were seen in their dressing room. Mr. McMahon was rallying the troops, saying that tonight was “all hands on deck” and that they are to watch one another’s backs tonight. Triple H took offense to this, saying that he didn’t need any damn backup to win tonight. He stormed out of the office, putting a damper on the evening, but Mr. McMahon said that by the end of the night, everything would be in order.
Next out was the Tag Team champions, as the Dudley Boyz took on little brother Spike and his hired protection, Faarooq. Spike and Faarooq showed some nice teamwork with one another as they tried to take down the champions, but Spike is not Bradshaw; the lack of familiarity bit them and Spike took the 3D before getting covered for the successful title defense. After the bout, Bubba grabbed Molly and planned on putting her through a table, but Spike was able to interject and escape.
X-Factor took on the team of The Undertaker and Diamond Dallas Page next, and while cohesion was an issue in the previous match, vengeance led to focus in this bout. Albert and Justin Credible were like a well oiled machine, but Justin took The Last Ride to close the match. Page had a celebration after the win, but Undertaker took off on his bike before the celebration could kick off.
The Island Tribe are a vicious team, and in a street fight could be downright deadly. But through Hellfire and brimstone, Kane and The Big Show took them on. The two giants savagely brawled with the Tribe, and it ended when Big Show delivered a ring shaking Chokeslam to Rikishi, pinning him and finally moving on from this battle.
We went to WWF New York briefly to see Matt Hardy there talking to fans and enjoying Fully Loaded. He said he was alone here, as Lita is at the Gund Arena to make sure her new friend Trish Stratus doesn’t get cheated in her match with Ivory. He also says that he can’t wait to watch Jeff take Rob Van Dam out and show what Team X-treme is all about. Back in the arena, Chris Jericho is shown getting ready. JR and Heyman note that while “Y2J” is generally laughing and joking around, tonight he looks all business.
Our next match took place between Chris Benoit and “The Game” Triple H. These two masters of the sport broke one another down physically and mentally, each one working toward decimating the other. In the end, despite Triple H’s best efforts, he ended up locked in the Crossface, but even while referee Tim White was knocked out, he refused to tap again. Assistance arrived when Kurt Angle made his return, rushing in and pulling Benoit out of the hold and hitting him with the Angle Slam! Triple H took advantage, hitting the Pedigree and scoring the win, but the look on his face told a bigger story: that help was definitely unwanted!
A quick segment backstage showed Lita talking to Trish Stratus, a show of solidarity between the two. But then it was right back to action, as the WWF Hardcore title was defended. Unlike other hardcore matches, which are about who can swing the most furniture at the other person, this bout was more about two of the top fliers in the World Wrestling Federation trying to top one another. The battle went all through the ringside area, and culminated in a one-two punch of RVD hitting Hardy with a Van Daminator that sent him off the stage – and then Van Dam leaped off the stage to hit a Five Star Frog Splash! That was enough for him to retain the title, but this one doesn’t seem over yet!
Our penultimate match-up featured the women of the World Wrestling Federation as Ivory, Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley’s chosen assassin, took on the thorn in her side, Trish Stratus. Ivory has a lot more experience than the former model, and she made sure to rub that in her face throughout the match. But youthful fire was the deciding factor, as Trish came back with the fans on her side to hit a bulldog after bouncing off the ropes to score a surprising win! The match over, Stratus takes a microphone and calls out Stephanie, saying that there’s only one thing left: taking on Stephanie herself! “Daddy’s Little Girl” came to the stage and told Stratus that she doesn’t deserve to face her in the ring, but if she has to stop Trish’s little crusade with her own hands, then she’ll do it at SummerSlam!
The time had come for the WWF Championship match, and both challenger and champion looked ready as they made their way to the ring. About halfway through the bout, Mr. McMahon made his way to ringside and seemed to be a concerned bystander, but the first time he laid a finger on the apron, his son Shane was right there to keep him back! The power struggle between father and son continued at ringside until things were looking desperate – as Jericho blocked the kick that regularly precedes the Stunner and turned it into the Walls of Jericho! At this point, emotion took over and Vince grabbed a steel chair, laying Shane out with it! As Earl Hebner dealt with that, Triple H came to the ring with Stephanie at his side. Stephanie grabbed the attention of Hebner, as Vince entered the ring… but “The Game” stood in his way, poised with his sledgehammer! Another mental power struggle ensued, as Triple H seemed to be weighing his allegiances… before bringing the hammer down on the back of Jericho! This one was academic at that point, as Austin made a weak cover and retained the championship.
After the bout, Mr. McMahon took to a microphone and congratulated “Stone Cold” on another successful title defense. He then announced that next month, we would see a radical new match type created by, for, and in house of the World Wrestling Federation, himself specifically. He said that this would combine the wonder of a Hell in the Cell, Survivor Series, and Royal Rumble match, as two would start the match as four men would be locked in specially made and reinforced chambers around the ring and would enter every five minutes. This would continue until five men were eliminated – hence the name, the Elimination Chamber! He then began to announce competitors for in the match: the champion, obviously, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. “Your Olympic Hero” Kurt Angle; some guys who could use getting their faces rubbed into some steel, “Y2J” Chris Jericho and “Rabid Wolverine” Chris Benoit; The Big Show, who, apparently whether Vince liked it or not, earned himself a shot earlier; but before Vince can name the last person he had in mind (which was starting to begin with a W) Shane speaks up and announces the final person as Triple H! Shane says that Vince wasn’t going to name Triple H because he only wants people in the match that he thinks can either be taken out or would play ball, and it seems that “The Game” was neither of those things! Triple H re-enters the ring and starts accosting the Chairman of the WWF, asking him if he doesn’t think he deserves the match, or if he’s afraid he would defeat the golden goose? The rest of the Power Trip come to the ring to try and cool the situation, but when Mr. McMahon tells Helmsley that he needs to watch his damn tone or else be reminded of what family he’s married into, “The Cerebral Assassin” snaps! He grabs Vince by the shirt, and when the others try to grab him, he tears into everyone! The fans go crazy as Triple H starts nailing sledgehammer shots to everyone, leaving only he and Austin – and they go at it! After Austin misses a shot with the championship, Triple H hits him with the Pedigree! As the show goes off the air, Jim Ross loudly proclaims “Dear God, it’s time to play The Game!”
Edge defeated Billy Gunn to retain the WWF European title (Rating: B)
Power Trip meeting; Vince wants everyone watching each other’s back, 3H says he doesn’t need anyone (Rating: A)
The Dudley Boyz defeated Faarooq and Spike Dudley to retain the WWF Tag Team titles (Rating: B-)
The Dudley Boyz attack Molly Holly – Spike Dudley runs in for the save (Rating: C)
The Undertaker comes rollin’ rollin’ rollin’ to the ring (Rating: B+)
The Undertaker and Diamond Dallas Page defeated Albert and Justin Credible (Rating: B+)
Undertaker leaves rather than celebrate his win, surprising DDP (Rating: B)
Kane and The Big Show defeated The Island Tribe in a Street Fight match (Rating: B-)
Triple H defeated Chris Benoit (Rating: A)
Rob Van Dam defeated Jeff Hardy in a Hardcore match to retain the WWF Hardcore title (Rating: B+)
Trish Stratus defeated Ivory (Rating: C+)
Trish Stratus challenges Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley to a match and Stephanie accepts (Rating: B)
Steve Austin defeated Chris Jericho to retain the WWF Championship title (Rating: A)
Vince and Shane announce the participants for the Elimination Chamber (Rating: A) Triple H confronts Vince about being “an afterthought”, attacks the Power Trip! (Rating: A)
Show Rating: A
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Post by Beejus on Feb 23, 2020 19:00:32 GMT 1
(WCW Wrath was originally posted on December 15, 2018; this was the final show that was posted at the Grey Dog Software forum.)August 2001: WCW Wrath
You can’t find action any hotter than WCW in August this year! Eric Bischoff had a lot of questions to answer following WCW Bash at the Beach, and he decided that since no one could agree about who could face Scott Steiner at WCW Wrath, he and “The Cat” put together a series of triple threat matches to determine entrants in the first ever Wrath match: a six man Caged Heat match with timed entrances similar to War Games. The winner between those six stars will then face “Big Poppa Pump” for the World’s Heavyweight championship, that very night! Steiner, meanwhile, is having his own problems with valet Midajah, as each time she tries to interject herself into his matches, she is starting to mess up and cost him matches instead of give them to him. Throughout the month, these qualifying matches see Ric Flair, Sting, Animal, Mike Awesome, and both members of Totally Buff join the fight, with “The Total Package” earning himself the right to enter the match last due to winning a match over Sting. Scott Steiner also has taken slight notice that Luger and his friendship with Midajah has been starting to bleed onto television, and the two had a shoving match to close the final Nitro before WCW Wrath. Who among these gladiators will win at Wrath and go on to battle “Big Poppa Pump” Scott Steiner?!
Goldberg was trying to call Kevin Nash back out again, trying to lure “Big Sexy” back to have the match that he’d agreed to, but “Da Man” got a surprise when he was assaulted by Bam Bam Bigelow! “The Beast From The East” claimed that compared to him, Goldberg is just a regular man, and so whether by defeating him or by hurting him, he would put Goldberg out of wrestling one way or the other! Bigelow is looking to prove he’s the best big man in the business while Goldberg is looking for win number 120; who will come out on top between these two intense warriors?
Curt Hennig made a big return at WCW Bash at the Beach, pulling Jeff Jarrett’s guitar away from him and leaving Booker T open to win the WCW United States championship. Hennig said that he did so in order to make a big impact immediately, but he got the attention of “The Chosen One” who told Curt that he hopes his moment was worth it because he’s gonna pay for it now! Jarrett played some mind games with Curt by saying that he hadn’t wrestled in WCW since a year prior, so he had to prove himself to get his match with Jeff at WCW Wrath. Jarrett chose Bam Bam Bigelow and Elix Skipper to send after Hennig in singles matches, but while in the first week Jarrett is able to get the drop on Hennig with his Acoustic Equalizer, the second time Hennig is ready for him, catching him in the act. These two technically trained, second generation stars are set to go at one another, which one will be the better man in the end?
The WCW United States Heavyweight championship will be on the line at WCW Wrath in a high stakes triple threat match, as Booker T has been hounded by “The Franchise” Shane Douglas. Douglas changed his focus briefly by entering into a qualifying match for the Wrath match, and when he wasn’t victorious, he took those frustrations out on Chuck Palumbo and Stacy Kiebler, hitting the delicate Stacy with a Franchiser! This brought Palumbo into the mix, wanting to get revenge for Kiebler, when “The Franchise” turned things around and claimed that he had gotten some insane dirt on Booker T! “The Cat” settled things by making this triple threat; Douglas wants the championship around his waist, Booker wants to close Shane’s loud mouth, and Palumbo wants his revenge but also will not mind picking up some gold along the way! These are three legitimate studs in professional wrestling, and any one of them could be walking out with the title!
“The Prodigal Son” Dustin Rhodes lost his cool on the episode of Nitro following WCW Bash at the Beach, as upon being scolded by Eric Bischoff, Rhodes attacked the owner of WCW and kicked him down low with the Dust Buster! This prompted an appearance from Dusty Rhodes, who urged Eric to reconsider forcing Dustin out, but Dusty showing up brought out Lance Storm. Storm yelled that “‘The American Dream’ is dead!” and that he was tired of these old, broken down has-beens stealing the spotlight from stars like him. The next week, Storm and Dustin shared words, with Lance using the emotional upheaval that he had caused the Rhodes family to challenge him to a Flag match that would pull away the stipulation about badmouthing America that he had lost back at WCW Pride; sweetening the pot by throwing in that if Dustin somehow defeated him, Lance would return the boots that he won from him at WCW Envy. Storm upped the ante however by claiming that if he won the match, he would take an American flag to the next Nitro and do something to it that he’s wanted to do for a while now! This match has the potential to be a sleeper hit for best match of the night with the talent involved, but who will hold their flag high?
Rey Mysterio Jr. made a big comeback at WCW Bash at the Beach, wanting to bring down Dark Eden. Vampiro told Rey that he was coming for him at Wrath, but Mysterio turned the tables on him by challenging him to a Mexican Deathmatch! Vampiro was quick to agree to it, has Mysterio got a plan or were his emotions running too high and he’s in over his head?
Following WCW Bash at the Beach, Hugh Morrus underwent quite the change in demeanor. Stating that he was not beholden to “Bischoff or Russo’s gimmicks” he dubbed himself Big Bill, saying that no one will be laughing anymore. He began a swath of rage, mainly focused on people smaller than himself like Jamie Knoble and Jeremy Borash, until Konnan came along and stood up to him. Can “K-Dawg” snap Bill out of it, or will the bully be too much for the Mexican superstar?
Also happening over the course of the month: Kronik were granted a WCW World Tag Team championship match against the Natural Born Thrillers, but Vampiro claims that he wants the titles for Dark Eden; Simon Diamond and his Problem Solvers have been holding the skybox hostage from Jimmy Snuka Jr., so he has found himself some partners to take them on in six-man action; Madusa has quietly been watching, looking for a new client; “Sugar” Shane Helms had been up against Leia Meow’s team of Yang and Yoshihiro Tajiri, but the feud ended with Helms victorious over Tajiri.
It is the greatest pre-show in the history of this sport, folks; the WCW Worldwide Live Pre-Show!
The WCW Worldwide Panel welcome everyone to WCW Wrath! (Rating: D+)
Video Replay: Setup for the Wrath match (Rating: ?)
The WCW Worldwide Panel talk about the Wrath match (Rating: C)
Video Recap: Goldberg vs. Bam Bam Bigelow (Rating: B)
Billy Kidman defeated Kwee Wee in 8:05 with the Kid Krusher to retain the WCW X Division title (Rating: C+)
The WCW Worldwide Panel say that while the pre-show is shorter than normal, we are getting right to the action; order WCW Wrath right now! (Rating: C-) WCW Wrath
Shown Live on August 12, 2001 (Week 2)
Held at: The MARK of the Quad Cities in Moline, Illinois (Great Lakes)
Announcers: Mike Tenay, Scott Hudson, and Arn Anderson
Attendance: 12,000 people (sold out!)
PPV Rating: 0.10
TV Rating: 0.78
Show Rating: B
This show has improved our popularity in 13 regions.
Vampiro narrates the opening video:
“Wrath is one of the most pure of the sins. Anger is an emotion that all men feel, everyone can get mad so easily. But it’s rare that a full on rage can take over one’s life; a burning desire for revenge that you can feed off of for years. Maybe it’s the neighbor who drives a better car or has a better job than you; maybe the woman who eats anything she wants and wears skimpy clothing while you have to watch every calorie and yet can’t get rid of those love handles. The man who cuts you off in traffic when you had the right-of-way; the woman who sleeps with everyone but you. Everyone has someone that makes them angry, and if you dwell in that, you can burn a hole through your heart. Wrath can be sought out, and carried out in violent ways. Who tonight in World Championship Wrestling will let their Wrath carry them to the top? Tonight, fires will burn and men will get closer to Hell as they release that Wrath upon their fellow man. Will the price be worth the cost? Or will all such sinners find themselves… burned out?”
With a blast of fire, the video ends, and the flames burn away to show the inside of The MARK of the Quad Cities, where booming, flaming fireworks fire off to a cheering sold out crowd! (Rating: B-)
Curt Hennig defeated Jeff Jarrett by intentional count out in 9:27 (Rating: B)
“Mean” Gene and Jeremy give the “Tale of the Tape” for the Wrath match (Rating: B-)
Luger and Midajah get caught talking again by Bagwell; “Lex you gotta stay away from Scott’s girl!” (Rating: B)
Big Bill defeated Konnan by using an international object and moonsault in 4:19. Konnan reverting to a Gangsta gimmick rates as Great. (Rating: C-)
Sting is getting ready (Rating: B-)
Shane Douglas talks about Booker and Palumbo before his match (Rating: B-)
Booker T defeated Shane Douglas and Chuck Palumbo at 13:30 in a Triple Threat match to retain the WCW United States Heavyweight title; Madusa joined “The Franchise” during the match by attacking Stacy Kiebler, Booker pinned Douglas with the Book End (Rating: B-)
“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair is getting ready for Wrath (Rating: B-)
Vampiro defeated Rey Mysterio Jr. in a Mexican Death match at 13:08 after swarming him with Dark Eden (Rating: C)
Chris Lovey interviews The Steiner Brothers, Scott laughing that “I get to sit back and watch them kill one another, then kill whoever’s left!” (Rating: B)
Sting defeated Ric Flair, Lex Luger, Buff Bagwell, Animal and Mike Awesome in a Wrath match at 35:07 by pinning Ric Flair with the Scorpion Deathdrop (Rating: B)
Sting and Ric Flair shake hands (Rating: B-)
The WCW Worldwide Panel discuss what we’ve seen already and what is coming later tonight (Rating: C+)
Lance Storm in-ring promo, says he’ll show everyone what he thinks of “The American Dream” on Nitro after defeating Dustin Rhodes (Rating: C+)
Dustin Rhodes defeated Lance Storm in a Flag match at 10:34 with a little helping hand from Dusty Rhodes (Rating: B-)
Sting is receiving some attention from trainers to make sure he’s fine to compete later (Rating: B)
Backstage, Dark Eden are assaulting both Kronik and the Thrillers! (Rating: C+)
Goldberg defeated Bam Bam Bigelow by DQ at 7:11 when “Bammer” intentionally uses a steel chair (Rating: B)
“The Cat” has to call on security to pull Bigelow away from Goldberg (Rating: A)
The Problem Solvers defeated Jimmy Snuka Jr. and Rebel Pride at 5:59 when Simon pulls Snuka’s tights to pin him, ending Snuka’s undefeated record (Rating: C-)
Scott Steiner and Sting make big entrances, Sting brings out Ric Flair to watch his back! (Rating: B-)
Scott Steiner defeated Sting at 27:28 to retain the WCW World Heavyweight title when Sting is found passed out in the Steiner Recliner; after Midajah left the ringside area, Jenna Jameson interfered in the match to give Steiner the victory (Rating: B)
In the WCW Worldwide Live Post-Show Wrap-Up, The WCW Worldwide Panel discussed Sting’s long night (C+); Goldberg’s assault by Bam Bam Bigelow ©; Jimmy Snuka Jr.’s undefeated record coming to an end (D); Dark Eden attacking Jindrak & O’Haire and Kronik (C-); Jenna Jameson helping Scott Steiner after Midajah was sent away (C-); and they thank everyone for joining us, saying that next month WCW Deceit will be eminating from Philadelphia Civic Center on September 16 (C-).
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Post by Beejus on Mar 7, 2020 14:50:05 GMT 1
(Originally posted on June 5, 2019)[Writer's Note: All shows posted from here on were never on any forum, they were posted on my WordPress blog. I changed up my style from full show reports to just a spotlight segment and the TEW results screen, and on that basis have a few more months already in the bag to repost here. For those who have seen these already, you already know what's here; but for those who haven't, enjoy!]   Spotlight Segment: Jim Ross and Paul Heyman seem confused when we come back from commercial break as the ring is filled with the “Union Jack” flag and several stereotypical European artifacts such as high backed leather chairs next to a table with tea and crumpets, a cricket paddle, a powdered wig, and a large telephone booth. “You Think You Know Me” brings out Edge, the former WWF European champion. He tells the fans that “It’s been a while since I’ve been out here in front of people without the title that I just made more totally awesome. But even though I’m not the King of Europe anymore, doesn’t mean I’m not still the 2001 King of the Ring, and I learned a lot of things about the culture while I was carrying the European title!”
Edge starts moving about and explaining (badly) what each item is and means to him, and that brings out a red-faced William Regal. He tells Edge that “I was trying to hold my composure and stay backstage, but this disgrace has gone on long enough! You know nothing of great culture, you are nothing but a swine, and that is why I made sure that you are no longer representing my wonderful country as it’s champion, and why I am going to make certain that you do not win this prestigious Intercontinental championship this Sunday at SummerSlam!” Edge maintains his cool, telling Regal to calm down, that he isn’t all that upset at not holding the European title anymore. He offers him a “spot of tea” but when William looks into the cup, he says there’s nothing in there. “Well, yeah, Willy; it’s only a spot.”
Regal’s face is a mixture of anger and frustration as he tells Edge that if he respects him as a gentleman, as a cultured European would, he would address him as “Mr. Regal,” but Edge tells “Willy” that he actually doesn’t respect him, because at SummerSlam he intends on taking this boot and kicking him right in the spotted dick until he becomes the new WWF Intercontinental champion! Regal adjusts his tie and tells Edge that “You have made a grave mistake, sunshine; it is one thing to disrespect me, but you disrespect everything I have ever known and held dear, and on Sunday, I will make certain you have paid dearly for what you have done.” As Regal leaves, Edge quickly picks up the cricket bat and paddles him on the butt with it! It knocks Regal off the apron, and Edge scurries away when William gives chase. Edge closes the segment by telling Regal that he doesn’t disrespect that culture, he loves the fans that he gained during his time as the “King of Europe” – he only disrespects him, and he will pay “Willy” the ultimate disrespect by repaying him for interfering in his awesome European title reign by taking away Regal’s Intercontinental title!
Show Notes
- Rob Van Dam gave up an intentional loss to Matt Hardy in order to beat him mercilessly with a ladder.
- This was Jerry Lynn’s first match back in the WWF after an ankle injury had sidelined him for the past few months.
  Spotlight Segment: Mr. McMahon is seen backstage, it looks like he is making plots up for his match at SummerSlam this Sunday as well as trying to figure out how to make certain that “Stone Cold” retains the WWF championship. Austin himself barges into the room, telling Vince that he needs to fix things. “Why the hell are you giving those punks Jericho and Benoit a chance to enter the Chamber last, when you should just put me in there? I’m the champion! I’m the one everyone’ll be paying to see me hang on to this title!”
“Steve, you know I’m working for you to keep the title-”
“Putting Triple H against Undertaker? Good plan. As long as he can get the job done.”
“He’ll get-”
“I don’t care about Shane, I don’t care about Rock, I don’t care about Undertaker, I don’t care what your deal is with him, but make sure he gets the job done.”
“Steve, you don’t have to worry about Undertaker. He’ll do what he has to do.”
“What did you say?”
“He’ll do-”
“What?”
“Undertaker will-”
“What?”
“Shane and Rock-”
“What? What is your plan, is it written in crayon? What?”
“Dammit-”
“What?”
“Steve-”
“Maybe I’m having trouble hearing you, but it seems like you’re not getting my point. Undertaker needs to do what he has to do. Benoit and Jericho can’t be getting into the match last. You fix this, Vince, and I’ll keep this title near you. That’s the deal.”
“Of course-”
“What? Do it, ‘cause ‘Stone Cold’ says so.”
Austin leaves, with Vince looking frustrated at the whole interruption. He puts his head in his hands, but jumps with a startle when Austin is heard yelling “What?!” from outside the door, as we head back to the ring.
Show Notes - Steve Austin has debuted a new catchphrase, which will be appearing in wrestling arenas for roughly the next 20 years no matter how tired everyone will get of it.
Note for the future: My shorthand is that “GB int” is an interview segment where Gene talks and Jeremy is in the background, while “G&B int” has both of them in a speaking role.
Spotlight Segment: The Hard Rock Cafe Arena is jam-packed tonight to witness the first WCW Friday Nitro after the huge happenings at WCW Wrath last Sunday! As commentary show us some still footage courtesy of WCW.com, the sirens are heard in the arena that bring out the man who is still our World’s Heavyweight champion, “Big Poppa Pump” Scott Steiner. He isn’t coming alone though, as brother Rick Steiner and the woman who played the biggest helping hand in him keeping that title around his waist, Jenna Jameson, are at his side. The three climb into the ring with Scott getting a microphone from David Penzer.
“Well it looks like all your so-called heroes were just big failures yet again!”
The crowd let out a torrent of jeers as Steiner laughs at them before continuing. “I told all’a’ya, that this title would still be ‘round my waist by the end of last week, and here I am, with it still hangin’ off one of the largest arms in the world, but with someone new hangin’ off the other! That lil’ worthless slut Midajah, she’s outta here, she was only good at one thing anyways and I got access to people who do that better’n her every day now!”
Scott hands the microphone to Jenna, who asks “What’s up Vegas?! Guess you didn’t expect me, did you? Look, ever since I stopped starring in movies, I knew I needed a new career path, and that path is directing. I’m directing for my own brand now, Club Jenna, and the fastest way to show that I’m a world class director is to direct this wonderful man, Scott Steiner, straight to the top in the world of wrestling! Honestly, wrestling isn’t much different than my other profession; it involves big, sweaty men in skintight costumes, and a bunch of *****s hanging off of them, like that little tramp who was following Scotty around. But now that he’s dumped the chump, now it’s time for me to show what I can do for the champ.”
“The DFG” stands stoically in the background as Scott takes to addressing the crowd again, ignoring the rather vulgar chants from some of the crowd toward Jenna, telling everyone that “Yeah, just another name to scratch off my black book of freaks who can’t handle the peaks! At this rate, I’ma be champ of the new millennium until the next century! So welcome to the Freak Show, with your director, Jenna, the best man who could ever watch my back, Ricky, and your host, ‘Freakzilla’, ‘Big Poppa Pump’, and the man with the largest arms in the world, me, no one can be finer, best of the best in the world of the best, Scott Steiner! Bischoff? *****cat? I almost dare you chimps to find me a new challenger, because there ain’t no one, can take down my Freak Show!”
The three flex and pose in the ring as commentary wonder just who can stand up to someone like Scott Steiner now that he has the backing of Club Jenna behind him? Scott came across well here, and while he may not have done well unscripted here (he barely hit any actual plot points) Jenna worked the mic like a pro.
Show Notes
Lex Luger and Midajah both turned face on this episode. Luger’s turn was a complete success, while Midajah’s turn went pretty well. Midajah changed to an Old School Valet (Wholesome) gimmick, which rated below average; Luger is now a Powerhouse (Wholesome) which is Very Good. Disqo has started a new gimmick of Positive Creep, which is also Very Good. Both of Rebel Pride are getting better at their gimmicks. Fratelli is the semi new team of Big Vito and Reno making their redebut to the main roster after some time in NWA: Wildside. During the segment, they were asked about their prior stint in WCW, with Vito saying that his sister brought them back together; noting that they were never brothers by blood, that would be gross if Reno was dating his sister; they are “street brothers”.
- The match with AJ Styles and Chavo Guerrero Jr. saw shenanigans outside the ring where Kaz Hayashi tried to interfere, but “Sugar” Shane Helms cut him off, leading to Styles getting a surprise pin on Guerrero.
- After the show, Curt Hennig said that AJ Styles is turning into a great worker and is worth getting behind.
- Yoshihiro Tajiri and Mark Jindak both asked for and received pay raises. They were each given 75% of what they were asking, moving Jindrak to $8,082 per month and Tajiri to $3,675 a month.
  Show Notes- Lead-in show to WWF SummerSlam.
Held on August 19th, 2001 at The Compaq Center in San Jose, California!
WWF Championship – Elimination Chamber: “Stone Cold” Steve Austin © vs. “The Game” Triple H vs. “Y2J” Chris Jericho vs. “Olympic Hero” Kurt Angle vs. “Rabid Wolverine” Chris Benoit vs. The Big Show
Winning Team Choose Their Brand: Mr. McMahon and The Undertaker vs. Shane McMahon and The Rock
Trish Stratus vs. Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley
WWF Intercontinental Championship – William Regal © vs. Edge
WWF Hardcore Championship – Ladder Match: Jeff Hardy © vs. Rob Van Dam
Tag Team Turmoil for the WWF Tag Team Championships: The Dudley Boyz © vs. Too Cool vs. The Island Tribe vs. Val Venis and The Godfather vs. The Acolytes vs. X-Factor vs. Spike Dudley and Billy Gunn
Diamond Dallas Page vs. “The Man Beast” Rhyno
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WCW Deceit will be held on September 16th, 2001, live from the Philadelphia Civic Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania!
Nothing yet announced.
This Week in Wrestling:
Big news saw Perry Saturn fired from the World Wrestling Federation over not attending a media appearance. Saturn had been getting depushed over the past few months, as it appeared that Vince McMahon was only keeping him around until he could find a reason to get rid of him. But this has backfired as Saturn has sued the WWF for a wrongful termination. We will let you know how this goes when the suit is finalized. Also in “worker leaving company” news, Sherri Martel got into a loud argument with IWA:PR owner Victor Quinones that led to her quitting on the spot. WCW has signed young, rising star Bryan Danielson to a deal with NWA: Wildside. Danielson has worked in ECWA and FMW so far this year and It should be interesting to see what they can do with the “American Dragon” when they call him up. (Writer’s note: This was a prediction card prize from Wrath.)
Japanese star Koji Kitao has officially retired from wrestling after an eleven year career. Also, Adolfo Moreno will be retiring in a month, leaving his promotion International Wrestling Revolution Group to his son, Marco Moreno. Both Kane and Bradshaw have fully healed from their injuries, which had been hampering them for the past few months. WWF Hall of Famer Baron Mikel Scicluna passed away on Friday at the age of 72.
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Post by Beejus on Mar 7, 2020 15:00:53 GMT 1
(Originally posted July 22, 2019)
Finally, it is time for the hottest event of the summer: it’s time for SummerSlam! San Jose’s Compaq Center may have seen some action in the past, but it can’t get any bigger than this! With the vile looking Elimination Chamber dome hanging overhead, the evening began with the WWF Intercontinental championship on the line as champion William Regal took on the plucky challenger, Edge. The two had started being at odds when Edge claimed to be the best champion in the WWF while he held the European title, and recently Regal had gotten involved by costing Edge a title defense, gifting the coveted championship to Hardcore Holly. “The King of Awesomeness” looked for his revenge here, and after avoiding the Regal Stretch all match, he was trapped in the hold toward the end. Edge’s long arms were able to reach the ropes, and everything unraveled for “The WWF’s Goodwill Ambassador” from there, and he was able to catch Regal with the Edge-cution DDT to win himself the Intercontinental title! Michael Cole caught up with Mr. McMahon, flanked by daughter Stephanie, backstage. The two were all smiles, as Mr. McMahon talked about how his team with The Undertaker would not and could not fail tonight against son Shane and The Rock, and also that Stephanie has wrestling in her blood and there was no chance that Trish Stratus could defeat her. When questioned about the Elimination Chamber, the two agreed that Triple H has always been a team player; that he knows what’s good for him and would “do the right thing” when the time was right. From there it was time for another championship bout, but while the previous one was a fun technical bout, this one couldn’t have been further from that! Rob Van Dam put his Hardcore championship on the line in a brutal Hardcore Ladder match against Jeff Hardy, and each man went out of their way to prove that they were more extreme than the other! The match left the crowd “oooo”ing and “aaaah”ing all throughout, but it was RVD who grabbed the championship after he was able to neutralize Hardy with the Five Star Frog Splash under a bunch of chairs. Following an amusing interview backstage with The Rock, our next match was one with little build-up but a lot of intensity as the perpetually good-natured Diamond Dallas Page took on “The Man Beast” Rhyno. Dallas had been trying to calm Rhyno’s violent tendencies, but it was all for naught as Rhyno assaulted him with the Gore following a failed tag team match. In this match, Page showed all the heart that he is characterized for, but the youth, energy, and penchant for destruction that Rhyno longs for led to a ring-shaking Gore that put DDP down for the evening. Backstage, we saw Ivory approach Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley. Ivory asked “Daddy’s Little Girl” if she wanted her to come and watch her back during her match tonight, but Stephanie scolded her, saying that she didn’t get things done over the past few months, so now she was taking matters into her own hands tonight. She vowed to grab Trish by the throat and choke her career out until she is no threat, and she’d do it all by herself, just like her father does to all of his business rivals. It was now time for the Tag Team Turmoil match, and our first teams were The Acolytes and the WWF World Tag Team champions, The Dudley Boyz. It was a hard-hitting affair, but the 3D saw Faarooq go down for the pinfall, moving Bubba and D-Von forward. Next up was the team of Val Venis and The Godfather, who pimped their way down to the ring and held their own against the champions, but Godfather met the same fate as Faarooq and were forced back. JR proclaimed that business was picking up next, however, as the runt of the Dudley litter, Spike Dudley, and partner “The One” Billy Gunn, were the next team to the ring. Molly was cheering Spike on from ringside, and to the shock of us all, one Dudley Dogg saw him pin D-Von to put his brothers out of the match, meaning that no matter what, we would see new champions crowned tonight! X-Pac and Justin Credible were the next team, and X-Factor tried to spoil Spike’s good evening. But Gunn was the biggest man of this match, and he used that size advantage to help them overcome the duo, pinning Credible after the One and Only. It would appear that Too Cool were to be the next team, but a look backstage saw that Crash Holly had found Grand Masta and Scotty were attacked earlier and would be unable to compete! That means the final match would see Billy and Spike taking on The Island Tribe of Rikishi and Haku. This fight is fierce, but with the fans and Molly willing them on, Dudley was able to hit another Dudley Dogg on Haku, and they win the bout! It looks like we have new champions, and with Spike overcome with emotion, he rushes over and kisses Molly! She is surprised, but applauds as Spike and Gunn hold up their titles. But wait… Scott Hall and Kevin Nash come walking out to the ring! It looks like they are taking Too Cool’s place in the match! Billy and Spike try to put up a spirited challenge, but they’ve just gone through three other tough teams, and it doesn’t take long until Spike’s amazing night crashes and burns as he is planted with the Jackknife Powerbomb and pinned easily. Hall & Nash barely break a sweat, and now they are the new WWF World Tag Team champions! To give everyone a breather, we go to WWF New York, where Matt Hardy, Lita, and Jacqueline are hanging out with the rabid SummerSlam crowd. We also see backstage where we see Chris Benoit taping up his wrists, Kurt Angle doing squats, Chris Jericho lacing his boots, and Triple H snarling into a mirror, deep in thought. They are all getting prepared for the Elimination Chamber in their own way! We also see Linda McMahon, seated in an office backstage, looking concerned but stoically prepared to see what happens in our next match, as it will have huge ramifications on the RAW is WAR and SmackDown! Draft tomorrow night, but also on her family. Finally, The Rock has come back home to the World Wrestling Federation! He teams with Shane McMahon to take on Vince McMahon and The Undertaker, and this No Disqualifications match is not for the faint of heart! This crazy brawl spills all around the arena, and no one in the match holds anything back. Shane tries to utilize the Coast-to-Coast dropkick that he won at WWF WrestleMania X-7 with, but Undertaker grabs him and drills him with the Last Ride before he could do it. But The Rock comes in wielding a steel chair, knocking Undertaker out of the ring, before hitting Vince with a spinebuster. He takes off the elbow pad and throws it into the crowd, before hitting the ropes and drilling Mr. McMahon right in his evil heart with The People’s Elbow! The fans chant along as the official counts three, and it becomes official: tomorrow night, The Rock and Shane McMahon get to choose what brand they want to be on for the Draft! Before the Chamber lowers, however, we have one more match to go, and it’s one that has been building ever since the end of 2000 as Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley steps into the ring to take on Trish Stratus. Stratus seemed to have control, but Stephanie has known wrestling for all of her life, and she uses every underhanded tactic that her father and husband have imbued her with in order to take over for much of the match. But those can only help you for so long, and Trish comes back with vengeance, but the official gets knocked down during the battle. Trish has Stephanie on the ropes, but a black woman slides into the ring and roughly grabs her away. She lifts Trish into a double chickenwing before slamming her face first down to the mat, as Paul Heyman crows that he knows her from ECW – it’s Jazz! As Jazz leaves the ring, the wreckage of Trish Stratus left in her wake, Stephanie quickly makes the pin, and to the dismay of the fans, easily gets the victory. It is finally time to lower the ominous dome that is the Elimination Chamber! Six men will enter, but only one can be champion! After Howard Finkel goes over the rules of the bout, Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho are the first into the match. They may shake hands at first, but their five minute period quickly becomes another chapter in their long-standing rivalry. When five minutes end, the lights begin flashing over the four pods holding the other competitors, and it comes as a surprise to everyone that Kurt Angle is the third man into the match! JR and Heyman bicker about if Mr. McMahon would have rigged the drawing for his Power Trip lackeys, but it appears that Angle was given a bad luck of the draw! The next five minutes is a masterclass in technical wrestling between the three, but they quickly are forced to join forces as the fourth man in is The Big Show! Angle, Benoit, and Jericho make very uneasy allies, but the seven foot Big Show walks right through them with big, heavy blows and chops. The speculation of who enters next is quickly answered as “The Game” enters the fray! He quickly hits the Pedigree on Jericho, pinning him and forcing him out of the match, before doing the same to Angle. He and Benoit try to take on Big Show, doing some major damage to him, but Benoit gets thrown by Show through the glass of one of the empty pods! But five minutes ends again and we enter the final leg of the match as “Stone Cold” Steve Austin enters the match, and it first looks like perhaps Triple H has decided to “do the right thing” by Mr. McMahon as the Power Trip start dismantling The Big Show. Finally it takes a Stone Cold Stunner, but Austin is able to put Show out of the match. Chris Benoit comes back into the match, and he holds his own against both Austin and Triple H! He has one big move in him, and he tries to take his shot with it, climbing to the top of a pod and diving off with a headbutt – but Austin moves out of the way! Benoit crashes hard to the mat, and Austin quickly picks up the pieces by pinning him. With the match down to only Austin and Triple H, it is quickly answered as to what Hunter plans to do: he crotch chops toward Austin and the two start to brawl! It goes back and forth between the two, with a number of near falls between them and reversed attempts at the Stunner and the Pedigree, but in the end we have a Pedigree that delivers to us a NEW World Wrestling Federation champion! Jim Ross yells that it is time to play The Game! But as the cage raises and Triple H holds aloft the title, he has some onlookers as the camera looks past him to see Scott Hall and Kevin Nash at the entrance way. They applaud, while wearing the WWF World Tag Team titles as well. They don’t go toward the ring, but their appearance doesn’t go unnoticed… However, this moment is all about Triple H, and we end WWF SummerSlam with the new Draft starting tomorrow night on WWF RAW is WAR, it is a new era in the WWF with “The Game” at the forefront of it!  Show Notes- Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, and Jazz all debuted at Summerslam. They came in with the gimmicks of Cocky (Cool), Bad Ass (Cool), and Bitch, respectively. Notes say that they have rated Great, Great, and Very Good.
- Summerslam had a buyrate of 1.64, or 658,145 buys.
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Post by Beejus on Mar 7, 2020 15:15:10 GMT 1
(Originally posted July 28, 2019)Mystery Solved
“Hey, could you come in here, please?”
I called him into my office, requesting the door closed as he entered. As he sat down, a feeling rose up in my throat that nearly choked out all the words that I had mentally prepared for this impromptu meeting. One of my top agents. But this had to be done.
“What do you need, Eric? I just about have my parts of Nitro finalized and ready to hand back to you.”
It was now or never.
“I know.”
“You know?”
“I know.”
“What do you know?”
“You really had me going there for some time, actually. Doubting myself, doubting my employees, doubting even some of my closest friends. But I figured it out.”
“Eric, are you alright? Maybe you need to take a break, you’re losing it.”
“No, I’ve never seen clearer. See, it was Chuck and Stacy that gave it away.”
“Chuck and… what? I’m gonna go, man, you’re speaking nonsense.”
“Sit down! It was Chuck and Stacy that gave it away, because what happened at Summerslam with Spike Dudley and Molly Holly, a big emotional moment where they have their first on-screen kiss, was something that I had told one person and only one person was going to happen… with Chuck… and Stacy. And that person was you.”
The look I got back spoke volumes. It was full of confusion, and then realization.
I had found my mole.
“I knew that my future plans had been getting leaked up to Vince, it’s not as if he was very delicate in putting them into play. Especially with his Elimination Chamber match, there’s no possible way that he and I came up with the same exact match within the same week. And when I made my circle smaller, I also started telling certain parts of the script to different people. Waiting. Watching. And this was the one that happened. And I just want to know, Johnny; why would you do this?”
Johnny Ace cleared his throat, that past confusion wiped away, and once he had regathered his composure, his gruff voice answered me.
“It was Hunter, actually. Vince had nothing in it.”
“That’s a little besides the point, isn’t it?”
“I guess so. I just wanted to make sure that you knew. Eric, I almost was out of here. I was in charge at the start of the year! And then you came back and I was back to running around this shithole company all over again! AOL was about to belly-up this company, I had only to wait it out and then I’d get a big WWF contract. But no, you and Ted screwed me over. I couldn’t just leave; I have a contract. I had to sit here and do my job like a good little soldier. But Eric? I hate it here. What has WCW ever done for me? Give me a skateboard? I was praying for it to close down!”
His voice is starting to raise, as this has been building inside him for some time now.
“Eric, I hate this company! I wanted to see it put on a shelf and crumbled to dust under Vince McMahon! Because that’s what it deserves! And if leaking information to Triple H to make us look like the second rate joke that WCW is was the way to do it? Then hell yes I did it! And I was gonna keep doing it, all the way until my contract was over or WCW died, so that I could go somewhere respectable!”
“You wanted out of here so badly, all you needed to do was ask! No, you made it a point to sell information, well I hope you’re happy with selling your soul to the McMahons because if what you wanted was gone? Well you’ve got it! Right here’s the paperwork, I drew it up before calling you in here. If the WWF wants snakes like you so much, then you can just go, and don’t leak anything on your way out. I have security to escort you right out the front door.”
“You can’t afford security, Eric. I’ll leave, but I’ll do it on my time.”
“I don’t need security. I have Kronik and Thrillers. You’re a big guy, Ace, but I have a lot of big boys. Unless you’d forgotten, WCW is where they play.”
Ace sneered at me, before taking the paperwork off my desk and shoving the door open. Our raised voices seemed to have gathered a bit of a crowd, and they were looking pretty hostile toward him as he left in a huff. The check I’d signed to pay off the rest of his contract was with him, money I really didn’t have to spare but also money that I couldn’t hold onto. I needed him out, not in a few months, I needed it right now.
The next day, I had a call. The call I had dreaded having to deal with after that explosion.
“Eric, do you have a minute?”
It was Animal, Ace’s brother.
“Look, Animal, I know you’ve probably heard what happened.”
“Yeah. I heard. Johnny’s out.”
“I really didn’t want to, but I felt like I had to do that. I understand if you feel pretty sour about it, but just know that if you stay, I’ll make sure that you don’t feel the repercussions of his actions.”
“I appreciate it, I really do. But I don’t think I can do it. I don’t feel like going it alone in the locker room for the next two months, so if I pay you the rest of my deal out, can I just go? Johnny is saying that he is gonna get me a spot in the WWF teaming with Hawk again, and that’s something I don’t feel like I can turn down.”
“I’ll let you do that, but can you make one final appearance for me? And then I’ll let you go. I was gonna blow off your feud at Deceit, but if you have to go, I just need you for Friday.”
“Oh, yeah, no problem. WCW has been so good to me over the years, it’s the least I can do.”
“Animal? Would it change your mind if you knew that Johnny was acting like a mole for the WWF, working against me from the inside?”
“That sounds like him. But no. Sorry, Eric. I’ll see you Friday.”
With that, I had to reshuffle some of my Nitro card to allow for a blowoff match, but that was a minor stress compared to the huge breath of fresh air that I took in.
I may have lost a good agent and a legendary name in the business to do it, but I had gotten rid of my mole. The legend of the Road Warriors is a tough one to lose, but I just have to build new legends. And as for the agent? Well, I had one final call to make.
“Hey, Fit? I need you to come to Nitro. No, not just this episode; full time.”
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Post by Beejus on Mar 7, 2020 15:50:10 GMT 1
(Originally posted July 28, 2019) Rules of the WWF Brand Extension Draft:
- Vince McMahon and Shane McMahon will draft ten superstars apiece during tonight’s WWF RAW is WAR, with the remaining superstars and staff members being split up in a Draft Lottery to take place exclusively on WWF.com.
- The WWF championship and WWF World Tag Team championships will be appearing on both shows, meaning Triple H, Kevin Nash, and Scott Hall are not eligible for the draft.
- All other World Wrestling Federation championships will be drafted along with the titleholder.
- If Vince McMahon or Shane McMahon so choose, they can draft one complete tag team, but that will mean the other gets two back-to-back draft picks.
- Due to their win at WWF SummerSlam, Shane McMahon and The Rock can choose the brand they wish to belong.
WWF RAW is WAR Spotlight Segment: With the Brand Extension Draft Lottery all complete, Mr. McMahon and son Shane McMahon come to the ring. While you can feel the tension between them, they are here for a purpose; a purpose that is hidden under a blanket on a pedestal. Mr. McMahon: “With all of the excitement tonight, it may shock you all to know that we at the World Wrestling Federation have one final surprise for everyone tonight. Tonight, we have split the WWF in half, and with that new era, must come a champion for a new age.” Shane McMahon: “That champion was crowned last night in the first-ever Elimination Chamber match, and we welcome him to the ring now: ‘The Game’ Triple H!”
The newly crowned WWF champion comes to the ring wearing street clothes of jeans and a large leather jacket, going through his entire regular entrance (water spewing and all) before glaring at both McMahon men. The camera sees him off-microphone ask “What’s up, Dad?” to Vince, and walking directly past Shane to stand on the turnbuckles and pose to the crowd. When all of the fanfare dies down, we go back to what we’re here for now.
Mr. McMahon: “Triple H, despite all my best laid plans, here we are, with you as our reigning WWF champion, and you are the man who is leading the charge into this new era in the World Wrestling Federation. Let me just add, I cannot wait to set up the challenge for you that sees you lose that title just as quickly as you took it away from one ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin.”
Shane McMahon: “I think what ‘Pops’ is trying to say here is that a new era with a new champion deserves a new championship. With two brands for you to appear on and fend off challengers on, you deserve to be recognized as the face of the entire company. That is why you will hereby not be known as simply the WWF champion…”
Shane and Vince both pull the sheet away from the podium, revealing…Shane McMahon: “… you will henceforth be known, as the Undisputed WWF champion!”
Triple H lifts his new championship and holds it aloft for the cheering audience, but as Vince and Shane applaud him and the fans are happy for him, the camera looks in the distance and sees a large, black pick-up truck coming through the curtain at the end of the stage. Another camera angle shows that it is “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, and the loud roaring of his truck belies the anger that he feels at this moment. He doesn’t make a move toward the ring any further, but he looks on, purposely ruining part of Triple H’s big moment but also making a show of how he refuses to be ignored in the run for the new Undisputed WWF championship! Show Notes---------- Results of the WWF Brand Extension Draft (on-air) RAW is WAR
Brand Owner: Shane McMahon
1. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin
2. “Y2J” Chris Jericho
3. “The Big Red Machine” Kane
4. Edge – WWF Intercontinental championship moves to RAW is WAR
5. Rob Van Dam – WWF Hardcore championship moves to RAW is WAR
6. Bradshaw
7. The Big Show
8 & 9. The Hardy Boyz
10. Trish Stratus
SmackDown!
Brand Owner: Mr. Vince McMahon
1. The Rock
2. The Undertaker
3. Kurt Angle
4. Chris Benoit
5. Diamond Dallas Page
6. William Regal – WWF European championship moves to SmackDown!
7. Faarooq
8. “Bad Man” Rikishi
9. D’Lo Brown – WWF Hardcore championship moves to SmackDown!
10. The Winner of WWF Tough Enough
(full roster post will come at start of September)
WWF SmackDown! Spotlight Segment: Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley comes to the ring, all smiles. She tells the fans that they all need to shut up and listen to her, because she has the most important thing to say all night.
“At SummerSlam last Sunday, not only was I successful at single-handedly defeating that little bitch Trish Stratus, but my wonderful husband, Triple H, won the first ever, accept no substitutes Elimination Chamber and was awarded the Undisputed WWF championship! And now, I am proud to bring to you, a glimpse into greatness that you Motor-city morons will never achieve, a moment in your life that you will tell your children and grandchildren about, and a look at manliness that you will never achieve in your ‘beer and pizza’ lives. I, Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley, proudly bring to you, ‘The Cerebral Assassin’, the Undisputed WWF champion, ‘The Game’, and my loving husband… Triple H!”
The sound of Motorhead fills the arena and the fans go from jeers to cheers as Triple H walks onto the stage! He comes down to the ring drinking a bottle of water. He is given the microphone from Stephanie and asks for a round of applause for her. When she only receives boos, he says that “Yeah, I agree; I don’t think I’ve seen this much bad acting and ass kissing since the last election!” Cheers fill the arena as Stephanie looks shocked! “Stephanie, we had a good thing, but you are your father’s daughter. And since I don’t want anything to do with him, then I also don’t want anything to do with you. So go sit on daddy’s knee and get him to write you another big, blank check, because you’re gonna need a lawyer; I’m getting a divorce!”
Stephanie is shocked, screaming “No! No, no, no!” as she falls to the mat and throws a tantrum. Triple H crotch chops in her direction, leaving to cheers as SmackDown! goes to a commercial break.
—–
Later in the evening, Stephanie is seen again, still seething, but it’s very obvious that she is plotting a way to get revenge on Triple H for what’s happened tonight.
But she is suddenly surrounded by the WWF World Tag Team champions, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash! The two laugh at her situation, saying that it looks like she only has half of her last name to keep her afloat now. She tells them to leave her alone, but when she tries walking away, Nash holds her by the hair so that she can’t leave! Hall gets in her face and tells her that her best move right now? Is do what Hunter says, and go get that divorce lawyer. And then go home, because her little hurt feelings mean nothing; “You just head on back to the McMahon mansion and learn how to do somethin’ other than run to daddy. Because the boys are back in town, and you would just get in the way.” With a hard smack on her butt, Nash lets her go, and she runs away from them as quickly as she can. Hall and Nash share a laugh at her expense, saying that they’re glad to help Hunter out with his light work. Show Notes- Triple H has formed a friendship between Stephanie McMahon and Kevin Nash.
WCW Friday Nitro Spotlight Segment
“The freaks are out tonight,” clatters Scott Hudson as the arena is plunged into darkness, with dark pink littering the aisle. Movement can be seen as it becomes clear that we are being joined by Vampiro and his followers. As they enter the ring, a bright spotlight shines on them, and the music continues playing as Vampiro speaks.“My legion and I have come to a new plane of enlightenment. We have decided that the only way to save WCW from itself and it’s sins is to take away the things that you all hold most dear to yourselves: the championships that you covet so highly, that you sin for so greedily. That is why I have tasked Kanyon with bringing me the Tag Team titles; those such as Mark Jindrak, Sean O’Haire, Brian Adams, and Bryan Clark would not appreciate what that achievement represents. Those such people would be just as likely to misplace the titles, trading them to their gym buddies for another protein drink… or for some other mind and body altering substances… whereas the titles would shine a light upon Dark Eden, giving us a bigger stage for our message to spread, and bring the redemption of WCW ever closer to fruition.”
“You talk too damn much, so how about you shut the hell up for a little while?”
The lights come on and the music stops abruptly, and the crowd cheers as “The Cat” Ernest Miller has stepped onto the stage!
“You can talk about all this redemption until the cows come home, but you Hot Topic rejects ain’t in charge of where things are going, I am! But it just so happens that what you want will give the fans some really good matches, which is why I’m out here to let you know what I have in mind for you coming up. At WCW Deceit, you freaky geeks are gonna have some matches, when you, Kanyon, you will get to pick a partner, to be chosen before Deceit so you can’t pull someone outta your ass at the last minute, and you’ll be in a triple threat match for the WCW World Tag Team titles against Kronik and Jindrak and O’Haire! But you, Kidman, you’ll be defending that X-Division title against the former champion who never got a rematch yet, Rey Mysterio Jr.! But next week, all three’a ya’ will be in that ring against little Rey and big O’Haire and Jindrak! So y’all better prepare yourselves for all that ass kickin’, because I – have – spoken!” (By not getting the screenshot properly due to a mental lapse or whatever you would call it, I missed two minor angles. I noted them in the Show Notes.)Show Notes:- Madusa gave protege Stacy Kiebler some tips on working as a better heel backstage during Nitro.
- Konnan was tested as a road agent for the X-Division title match, and he did well with it. During the match, Shane Helms showed he is improving his performance.
- Air Paris and Caprice Coleman showed excellent tag team chemistry. Reno seems to be getting better at his gimmick.
- Low Ki is getting better at his gimmick.
- Chuck Palumbo was protected in his loss by Madusa interfering in the bout.
- The WCW Worldwide Panel talked about our main event following the segment that set up next week’s main event. It had a rating of C, and saw Chris Lovey get better at his gimmick.
- The Deceit match will be a fatal four way tag team match where the partners will be chosen at random; the winner will not be the winning team but it will be the person who wins the fall, which could lead easily to some deceitful actions going on during the match! (This was a prediction prize from Wrath by TheBigBad1013.)
- Simon Diamond’s victory over Jimmy Snuka Jr. came thanks to the debuting Dawn Marie, who’s Bitch (Cocky) gimmick rates as Great.
- After the main event match, Sting and Animal shook hands, ending their feud once and for all. The segment’s crowd rating was a B+.
- This show has improved our popularity in 38 regions.
WWF HEaT Spotlight Segment: Michael Cole welcomes Spike Dudley and Molly Holly to the stage at WWF New York, thanking them for joining them tonight. He asks them for some thoughts on where Spike’s career has gone this year, with him saying that he’s been thrilled to be out of the bingo halls and on the grand stage of the WWF! He says that SummerSlam was one of the greatest evenings of his life, as he finally defeated his older brothers, and he got a little emotional, but that emotion was left feeling a little hollow when he was Jackknifed and defeated, not leaving with the titles. Cole says that a lot of people have been very happy for Spike and Molly for overcoming their family troubles, and wonder what life will be like for “the runt of the Dudley clan” on WWF SmackDown! Spike says that with this wonderful little lady at his side, he feels like he could do anything! Molly’s face shows something a little different than Spike’s though, and Michael blurts out that she can’t be by his side; as his sources told him that Molly had apparently gone specifically to the McMahons and made sure that she was placed on Raw. She tries to get Cole to change the subject, saying that this is for behind closed doors, but apparently Spike was not told about this as he starts questioning her. She finally loses it, slapping him! She tells Spike that she cares way more about her career than she does about him! “The Women’s title is on Raw, and that’s what matters to me; not following around some little puppy dog like you! We never had what you thought we did, and whatever it was? It’s over!” She storms off the set, leaving him shocked as the show fades out. 
This Week in Wrestling Despite Johnny Ace having to be paid off to leave WCW, Animal replaced most of that money again by paying $11,300 in order to be released from the last 40 days of his contract. Johnny’s road agent duties are replaced by the main roster return of Fit Finlay. A slew of people retire including Kamala, Bushwhacker Luke, The Fabulous Moolah, Bill Eadie, the English version of Kendo Nagasaki, and The Great Kabuki. Kamala, Nagasaki, and Luke have all opened wrestling schools; Kamala House, School of Kendo, and Sheepwhacker U. ---------- On the final day of August, Eric Bischoff is checking up on the latest wrestling news, when he finds a big headline that he has to jump on quickly. He grabs his phone and starts looking through numbers that he hasn’t dialed in the past few years. Hopefully, this one still works. It rings… it rings… and finally, the correct person answers. “Scott? Hey! It’s Eric… Bischoff. Look, I know you weren’t very happy with how things went last time, but I just saw the news that you were just given a release? How would you feel about making one last big run in WCW?” |
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