Nitro Episode 18:
Wednesday 29 August 2001
Live late-night on FX
7,496 crowd from New York City
Announcers: Tony Schiavone, Jerry 'The King' Lawler & Arn Anderson
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Tony Schiavone on commentary says it's Wednesday night folks and you know what that means! It's WCW Nitro, LIVE from NEW YORK CITY!!
Jerry Lawler excitedly says we're here in the City that never sleeps, the Big Apple, the City of Dreams and you know speaking of dreams here is someone living their dream, it's the WCW World Heavyweight Champion!
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We see Scott Hall driven towards the entrance ramp way in his trademark Bentley. The Sandman gets out of the Bentley to open the door for Hall but he's visibly very injured and is hunched over holding his back in a lot of pain. He doesn't look happy to be there at all. Scott Hall triumphantly walks to the ring with the WCW World Heavyweight Championship looking very pleased with himself.
The Sandman reluctantly grabs Hall a mic once he's in the ring. Sandman looks terrible and unhappy. Scott Hall gets on the mic and says "Hey yo, New York" and then does a too sweet gesture.
Scott Hall says at Mayhem is long-time friend, mentor and most recently, enemy, Curt Hennig, gave the best he had. Curt put in the performance of his life to try and take my title from me. He did his best. Some might say he put in a perfect performance but his perfect performance just isn't good enough to beat The Bad Guy!
Scott says people doubted him. They said without The Sandman or any other interference he couldn't get the job done... he then spends a little while berating The Sandman telling him that he failed him and if he wants to keep his job in WCW and his job as Scott Hall's personal driver then he better not EVER fail him again! The Sandman looks hot and like he might fight Hall but then seems to calm down and moves past it. Scott continues - BUT I'm still on top of this company and there ain't nobody in it that can throw me off the top of this mountain!
Booker T comes out to a big pop. Booker looks a bit banged up from his Parking Lot Brawl with The Sandman at Mayhem, but it has to be said he looks in much better shape than The Sandman himself. The Sandman looks angry upon seeing Booker come out.
Booker T on a mic says everyone in this company knows the only reason you took that title from me in the first place was by cheating. Booker says you might have got the better of Curt at Mayhem, but that was only because you played on his pride... the difference between you and Curt is that you don't have no pride!
Scott Hall says who needs pride when you have gold and then lifts up the WCW World Heavyweight Championship.
Booker says at Mayhem he proved that he deserves a shot at taking that gold back from Scott. He might not have destroyed Scott's Bentley, that can wait for another day, but he did destroy Scott's driver, he knocked him out and at Fall Brawl if Scott has any pride he knows the only real challenger for that title is Booker T!!
Bischoff comes out to the surprise of Booker T.
Bischoff has a mic and he says whilst he was impressed with Booker T's performance at Mayhem, the new era of WCW should not be based on blind nepotism but also based on competition and form. Bischoff says he will give Booker an opportunity to challenge Scott Hall at Mayhem, but he says that there are several other guys who are in-form and deserving of the chance to have a shot at the WCW World Heavyweight Championship.
Booker says that's fine, I got no problem beating any man on this roster to get my chance at that sucka standing in the ring!
Eric Bischoff says tonight will see a Beat The Clock Challenge tournament to determine the number 1 contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship at Fall Brawl.
Bischoff says he plans to reward the 4 most in-form men in WCW with a chance to win a shot against Scott Hall.
Bischoff announces the competitors as Booker T... one half of the newly crowned WCW World Tag Team Champions, Lance Storm.... the WCW FXtreme Television Champion, Steve Corino... and finally... 'Dr Death' Steve Williams!
All 4 men will compete in matches tonight. The man who can beat their opponent in the quickest time-frame will become the number 1 contender... Bischoff says best of luck Booker, we'll see you out here for the main event...
Freestyle segment with Scott Hall, The Sandman, Booker T and Eric Bischoff - (87 rated)
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Vampiro promo
In a dark room Vampiro is laughing and sends a warning to the WCW locker-room. He says what you saw at Mayhem is just the beginning... this Friday night on Panic! the world will get to see the Freak Show that I have created...
And this a message to The Hurricane... I don't know who you are... I don't know where you came from, but let me tell you something brother, you can wear your mask, you can put on your silly green cape... but your days round here are numbered!
(59 rated)
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Tony, Jerry and Arn are at the desk and they're excitedly talking about the Beat The Clock Challenge.
Tony says we've had confirmation of the 4 matches that will take place tonight in it:
In our main event we will see Booker T vs Jason Jett, 'Dr Death' Steve Williams will be in action against former WCW World Cruiserweight Champion, Mike Sanders, one half of the newly crowned WCW World Tag Team Champions, Lance Storm will take on formal Team Canada stable-mate and WCW World Cruiserweight Champion, Elix Skipper and in our opening bout of the evening we've got:
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Match 1:
Beat The Clock Challenge to determine #1 Contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship
Schiavone talks about the rules of the Beat The Clock Challenge and that it is between Corino, Storm, Williams and Booker T. If any of their opponents win they don't get a shot at the title.
Lawler mentions how in these matches the opponent may not even need to "win" the match to avoid defeat, as whilst this first match will go the distance with Corino setting the pace, in all of the 3 other matches the match will only go on until Corino's time, so in the 2nd match the other guy doesn't need to win to avoid defeat they just need to beat the clock, as does the challenger.
Steve Corino (with Don Callis) vs Jamie Knoble (with Kid Kash) - The WCW FXtreme Television Championship is not on the line in this match
Don Callis barks instructions to Steve Corino who has put his WCW FXtreme Television title to one side. As the bell rings Corino is immediately onto Knoble trying to do as much damage in as little time as possible. He takes Knoble out with a stiff punch and then gets him on the ground and is kicking him and then with his foot choking him viciously as Knoble holds onto the bottom rope. Kid Kash immediately jumps to the apron demanding the ref intervene. The ref begins to count to 5 when Corino stops choking Knoble and hits a stiff punch onto Kid Kash knocking him off the apron.
Well, Tony, Steve Corino, that's my pick for the Beat The Clock Challenge says Lawler. I think this could be over very quickly.
In the distraction of this Jamie Knoble manages to get a school-boy roll-up pin but he only gets a 1 count before a furious Corino starts beating on him again. Knoble scrambles to his feet as an excited and determined Steve Corino grabs onto Knoble and hits an Old School Expulsion on Knoble.
Well that could be all she wrote, says Tony. Just under 2 minutes on the clock and this could be some benchmark to set for Corino adds Lawler.
Corino pins Knoble and the ref counts for the 1...2...3--- NO KID KASH BREAKS UP THE COUNT!!!
Kid Kash who Corino viciously punched off the apron has come back at Corino with a vengeance here! screams Tony. He can't do that! says Lawler. A furious Don Callis gets on the apron screaming at the ref.
The ref notices what has happened and starts shouting and jostling with Kid Kash before immediately telling Kid Kash he's banned from ring-side and must leave immediately!
Corino is furious and whilst Kid Kash is arguing with the referee he hits an Old School Expulsion on Kid Kash.
Knoble is still in a bad way in the ring but is just about managing to crawl to the ropes to bring himself to his feet.
Corino grabs him and puts him in a Sleeper hold and then takes him down to the matt. It takes about 4-5 seconds before the referee calls for the bell as Corino has choked him out!
Steve Corino wins via submission - (3.10) - (60 rated)
Well that's a win for Steve Corino says Tony, a good time for sure but will that extra minute or so caused by Kid Kash cost Corino a shot at the title?
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JJ Dillon standing by with Eric Bischoff
JJ says fans will be asking tonight what's the current situation with the WCW United States Championship? Sabu of The Extreme Alliance now holds the title and he's not a member of the active roster?
Bischoff says the Chairman and CEO of WCW, Shane McMahon, is still in ongoing consultation with WCW's legal team regarding this matter. That's all we are willing to say at this time. But do I as WCW General Manager consider Sabu to be the official holder of the WCW United States Championship? Absolutely not, JJ!
Well, alright, says JJ. And I take it you asked for this time with me because you also have several other matches you wanted to announce for the fans tonight and later this week on Panic!
That's right, JJ, says Bischoff. Team Canada won the WCW World Tag Team Championship this past Sunday at Mayhem and I can confirm that The Nu Road Warriors do not have a rematch clause. They, alongside several other teams, will have a chance to make themselves the next #1 contenders though. 6 teams will fight it out for the chance to take on Team Canada. This week will see two Triangle matches, with the two winners of those Triangle matches going on to face each other next week live on Nitro.
Later tonight on Nitro will see: The Nu Road Warriors vs Fit's Fight Club vs Shawn Stasiak & Mark Jindrak
Then on Friday Night Panic! we will see: Sean O'Haire & Chuck Palumbo vs Barry Windham & Mike Rotunda vs The Harris Brothers
Eric goes on to say he can also confirm an update on the WCW World Cruiserweight Championship and who will get to challenge Juventud Guerrera for his title next. There are a lot of new and exciting cruiserweights that have joined WCW and help make that show great. I've always championed the cruiserweights JJ and I always will. So later tonight we have a special Open Battle Royale where anyone within the qualifying weight who has never been a WCW World Cruiserweight Champion before will get the chance to win a shot against Juvi.
Well that's big news for the United States, World Tag Team and World Cruiserweight Championship titles says Tony. Several big-time tag team matches, a huge over the top rope Cruiserweight Battle Royale later tonight and the shocking news that it seems like we have no recognised WCW United States Champion!
Freestyle segment with JJ Dillon & Eric Bischoff - (56 rated)
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Team Canada promo in the back
Lance Storm and Mike Awesome stand facing the camera with the WCW World Tag Team Championship belts. Carl Ouellet stands looking menacing in the background holding a Canadian flag.
Lance Storm looks happy as he says Good Evening, New York (boos from crowd) we stand before you the greatest tag team in the entire world. We have dethroned The Nu Road Warriors and WCW has now entered a new age, not of outlaws, not of road warriors, but of proud Canadian patriots (boos)
Mike Awesome says you can boo all you want New York, it just makes our victory all the more sweet. We've worked hard for this moment and now we've got these belts we ain't giving them up without a fight!
Lance Storm says if he can be serious for a moment... not only have we got our hands on the WCW World Tag Team Championship, but I, have been graced with a chance to have a shot at the WCW World Heavyweight Championship... giving me the chance as a proud Canadian to be a double-crown champion in WCW. Let me just say, it's about damn time I got given a shot at the Big Gold Belt. I've worked hard to get to this moment and you can bet your-
Elix Skipper and Kid Romeo come into set. Carl Ouellet sizes up to them. Storm and Awesome look over at them unimpressed.
Oh hey, Lance, says Skipper. Just thought I'd pop by and say congrats on winning the tag belts, but er, the Big Gold Belt? Well your Beat The Clock challenge match is against PRIME TIME Elix Skipper, so I just thought I'd make sure you didn't get your hopes up now, eyy, as I promise you, you will RUN OUT OF TIME before you beat PRIME TIME!!
Skipper and Kid Romeo then abruptly leave as a furious Storm and Awesome look on.
Freestyle segment with Team Canada & Elix Skipper and Kid Romeo - (52 rated)
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Match 2:
Akira Hokuto (with 'Sinister' James Mitchell) vs Tylene Buck - Non-Title match, if Tylene Buck wins she gets a future shot at the WCW World Women's Championship
Tylene Buck is already in the ring.
Well, Arn, Akira Hokuto retained that championship at Mayhem against La Diabolica, she's now in action tonight against the inexperienced Tylene Buck, do you think Buck has any chance of a victory tonight?
Anderson says this is a free-hit for Buck. She has nothing to lose here tonight except the match. The title isn't on the line so some champions could get complacent in a match like this thinking they can just turn up and win. Do I think that's Hokuto? Well from what I've seen of her she's clinical and ruthless, so I don't fancy Buck's chances, but anything can happen in wrestling, that's the beauty of it!
Tylene Buck starts the match aggressively but this ends up looking rash as the calm, patient and experienced champion Hokuto waits for the right moment to pick her off. Hokuto gets in several hard hitting strikes and puts Buck in several painful holds, tiring her out, before eventually hitting a Northern Light Suplex to get the win.
Akira Hokuto wins via pinfall - (4.10) - (32 rated)
After the match 'Sinister' James Mitchell presents his client with her WCW World Women's Championship and she holds it aloft in the ring as if to say that there is nobody in WCW who can take it away from her.
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Fit's Fight Club in the back
Fit Finlay says tonight is a big night for Fit's Fight Club. Tajiri has a big opportunity as one of the favourites to win the Open Battle Royale to become #1 Contender for the WCW World Cruiserweight Championship and Dave Taylor and himself have a great opportunity to win their Triangle match to challenge for the WCW World Tag Team Championship.
Stasiak and Jindrak come into shot. Stasiak says that Finlay and Taylor are lucky their road agents in Shane McMahon's pocket otherwise they wouldn't even be in the match. Finlay and Taylor get hot and tell Stasiak to watch his mouth. Jindrak says, what you gonna do, fire us? Stasiak and Jindrak laugh before walking off.
Freestyle segment with Fit's Fight Club and Stasiak & Jindrak - (35 rated)
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DDP and Kanyon in the back.
Kanyon is furious. He says The Extreme Alliance screwed them over at Mayhem, they dumped them in the trash, when it's those bastards who belong in the trash!
DDP tells Kanyon he needs to calm down, you win some, you lose some, no big deal.
Kanyon says it is a big deal! He was the most in-form wrestler in the company, now because he lost to The Extreme Alliance he didn't get a shot in the Beat The Clock challenge, Bischoff even put in Steve Corino, another ex-Extreme Alliance guy. How's Corino getting a shot before him? Steve Williams has been in the company 3 minutes but he gets a shot over me??
Lash LeRoux and Kwee Wee come into shot.
Kwee Wee asks Kanyon if he's done whining yet?
Kanyon gets hot, calm down Chris says DDP.
Kwee Wee says ever since Shane McMahon took over the company Kanyon has been featured every week on TV, he gets big wins on TV, big wins on PPV, but none of that is enough to feed his enormous ego.
Kanyon tells Kwee Wee to shut up.
Lash LeRoux says since Shane took over the company there's a lot of guys in the back who can't get a look in or ain't doing so great. But the way we see it Chris, you're doing just fine. We don't like your attitude much, but if you're pissed off, if you want to release some tension, you feel like a match... well how's about it, us 2 vs you 2, live on Friday Night Panic?
Kanyon says he'd happily beat their asses right now but if they want to wait until Friday then he's got no problem with it. DDP just laughs and says oh brother.
Freestyle segment with DDP & Kanyon and Lash LeRoux & Kwee Wee - (70 rated)
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Outside of Curt Hennig's locker-room we see JJ Dillon knocking with no response.
JJ says he's tried to get viewers an insight into how Curt Hennig is feeling after his loss in the big match for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship at Mayhem but he hasn't had a response so far.
JJ knocks again, then opens the door and we see a disappointed and annoy Curt Hennig come to the door.
Look JJ, Curt says, I got a lot of respect for you, but this isn't a good time.
Do you have anything to say to the WCW fans who were rooting for your this past Sunday, Curt? You came so close to greatness, Curt, it was a great match, the Champ just got in your head, that's all.
Curt says that he's his own biggest critic and he knows that Scott Hall didn't beat him at Mayhem, he beat himself. And he'll beat himself up about that moment for the rest of his professional career. That was his shot at the big one and he blew it, now if you don't mind JJ, I have nothing further to say.
Freestyle segment with JJ Dillon and Curt Hennig - (68 rated)
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Billy Kidman and Torrie Wilson backstage.
Kidman tells Torrie it's okay, Vampiro isn't here tonight and besides he's spoken to management about what happened at Mayhem. He is sure that WCW is a safe place for Torrie to be. Torrie doesn't look so sure.
Shane Helms comes into set and Kidman gets visibly annoyed.
Helms says he was sorry to see what happened to Kidman and Wilson at Mayhem. He couldn't get out there quick enough as he was in catering at the time watching on a monitor. He's just glad The Hurricane, whoever the hell that dude was, was there to save them.
Kidman says he has his suspicions on who The Hurricane might be... Shane asks, who? But Kidman doesn't say.
Helms says it's harder to trust people round here each day, he knows Kidman doesn't trust him, but he says he trusts you and Torrie more than most round here.
Freestyle segment with Kidman, Torrie and Shane Helms - (46 rated)
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Match 3:
Beat The Clock Challenge to be #1 Contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship
Lance Storm (with Mike Awesome and Carl Ouellet) vs Elix Skipper (with Kid Romeo)
Lance Storm must beat Steve Corino's time of 3.10 seconds or the match will end in a draw.
Mike Awesome joins the announcers at the commentary desk holding both of the WCW World Tag Team Championship belts whilst Carl Ouellet stands guard at ringside.
Arn Anderson asks Mike Awesome what Lance Storm's strategy is in the match. Awesome says Storm is just going to get the job done.
The match begins and Lance Storm comes flying out the gates trying to get at Elix Skipper with a clothesline, but Skipper ducks out of it, runs the ropes and then rolls out of the ring.
Storm looks out the ring furious. Ouellet goes towards Skipper as the ref starts counting him out but Kid Romeo steps in to prevent him from getting involved. A furious Ouellet stares down Kid Romeo who despite the size advantage doesn't back down until Ouellet punches him several times and then throws him into the barricade.
Elix Skipper hits a drop-kick on Ouellet who goes into the barricade himself as the ref gets to a 5 count.
Skipper slides back into the ring as Awesome on commentary mentions that Skipper is proving himself to be a coward.
Storm is still trying to get hold of Skipper who uses agility and high-flying counters to avoid Storm making contact with him.
Storm eventually manages to grab Skipper and starts grappling with him.
I make that 1 minute already, Mike, and Storm's not really got that much offence in yet, says Tony.
Awesome says that Lance still has plenty of time.
Storm does get some offence in now with some rough strikes and kicks, but Skipper eventually manages to get some momentum back with a cross-body from a spring-board on the rope.
Meanwhile, on the outside, Ouellet and Kid Romeo begin to brawl again and this time the referee from the ring shouts out at both of them indicating that both men are now banned from ringside. Ouellet argues with the referee until he gets flattened by Skipper hitting a crossbody on him from the top rope to the outside. Storm is back to his feet and sees Skipper on the outside again. This time Storm quickly gets out of the ring and chases over to Skipper, he starts trading blows with him on the outside before throwing him back into the ring.
The two fight for a bit in the ring before Storm manages to hit a massive drop-kick on Skipper and goes for the pin.
If he can get this then Storm would have the win! says Tony
1-2... but Skipper has his foot on the rope!
Lance Storm only has about 30 seconds left to get a victory here, says Lawler, are you nervous Mike?
Awesome says Storm only needs 3 seconds to get a pin.
In a desperate bid to get the win Storm stomps on Skipper a few times before putting him into the Canadian Maple Leaf submission!
Lance Storm puts all of his effort into the submission. I make that 20 seconds now, says Tony. Surely Skipper can't hold out?
Skipper looks determined but like he's in an awful lot of pain. Storm keeps piling more pressure on as Awesome says on commentary that Skipper has to tap out, he has no choice.
He's held on for 10 seconds here, says Tony, can Skipper stop Storm from going for the title?!
As the clock counts down Storm looks nervous but determined to get the win. 5-4-3-2 Skipper is about to tap... but he just holds out!
The match finishes in a draw - (3.10) - (57 rated)
Skipper starts tapping out immediately as the clock chimes. Storm is furious, Kid Romeo who was still at ringside slides into the ring, rescues Skipper and then they make a quick exit from the ring.
Storm looks on shell-shocked at not getting the win, whilst Mike Awesome rages on commentary saying that Romeo and Skipper will pay for this as the last shot before break is Elix Skipper looking very happy with himself.
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JJ Dillon with 'Dr Death' Steve Williams and Jimmy Hart
JJ asks Steve how he is feeling about his match later tonight. Lance Storm just failed to beat Corino's time, do you see that benchmark time as something you can beat?
'Dr Death' says since he got back here in WCW he's been demolishing everyone they've put before him... he don't see any reason why tonight will be any different. Williams says he's been waiting his whole career for a chance like this and he's not going to waste it!
Jimmy Hart adds that his client is the most under-rated guy in American professional wrestling. Jimmy says he came back to management for one reason and one reason only - because he thought he could take 'Dr Death' to the pinnacle of this sport! And tonight he makes a big step in doing just that!
Freestyle segment with JJ Dillon, 'Dr Death' and Jimmy Hart - (48 rated)
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Joey Styles is seen on screen from the production truck. Joey cuts a quick promo where he says he knows that Shane McMahon, the big wigs in WCW and all the fans and wrestlers in the back are keen to hear from the NEWWWW WCW United States Champion and whilst Shane McMahon has refused to put the now hottest free agent in wrestling, Sabu, on TV, as a representative of FX, Joey has taken the decision that WCW viewers want to hear from him. He puts a tape in and then we see the tape...
Sabu stands in front of the screen with the WCW United States Championship and Bill Alfonso, with Tommy Dreamer and The Chair Swingin' Freaks in the background
Bill Alfonso says a lot of people will be asking why he turned on Rob Van Dam... well that can wait for now... for now this is Sabu's moment! Sabu is the WCW United States Champion whether Shane McMahon wants to recognise that or not... the fans all know what happened... everyone in the back knows what happened... and Shane, if you don't want to recognise Sabu as champion, if you don't want to let him defend that belt on WCW television... well he's going to defend that belt like the champion he is!
Tony Schiavone asks what Alfonso's talking about!
Axl Rotten comes into frame and he says THIS SATURDAY NIGHT... LIVE IN INDIANA... IWA MID SOUTH... BARBED WIRE, BOMBS AND BLOOD... THE HOMICIDAL... GENOCIDAL... SUICIDAL... DEATH DEFYING MANIAC... SABU... PUTS THE WCW UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP ON THE LINE IN THE MAIN EVENT AGAINST MY BROTHER IAN ROTTEN WHO JUST SO HAPPENS TO BE THE OWNER OF THE COMPANY... IN A BARBED WIRE ROPE MATCH!!!
What?! asks Jerry Lawler
Sabu then comes to the stage and says if you don't want that match to go ahead Shane, then you can hear my list of demands live on Friday Night Panic! where we'll all be there waitin' for you...
Freestyle segment with Joey Styles, Bill Alfonso, Sabu, Tommy Dreamer and the Chair Swingin' Freaks - (48 rated)
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Match 4:
Triangle Match as part of a tournament to determine the #1 Contenders to the WCW World Tag Team Championship. This is the Semi Final, with the winning team proceeding to the final which will take place next week live on Nitro
Fit's Fight Club (Fit Finlay & Dave Taylor) (with Tajiri) vs Shawn Stasiak & Mark Jindrak (with Stacy Keibler) vs The Nu Road Warriors (Road Warrior Animal & Road Warrior Dog)
Well big news about the WCW United States Championship there, says Tony, but now we've got action in relation to the WCW World Tag Team Championship... 3 teams now set to make their claim for a shot at it... who's your pick here guys?
Arn says that Finlay and Dave Taylor have more experience than most, it comes down to whether The Nu Road Warriors can get on the same page chemistry-wise tonight. Stasiak & Jindrak are perhaps the dark horses.
This match sees all 3 teams vying for victory. The match gets a decent amount of time and goes about 10 minutes.
The Nu Road Warriors start the match off strong, but eventually Stasiak and Jindrak get into the match and look like they are the dominant force with Fit Finlay and Dave Taylor both taken out on the outside.
The match reaches its conclusion when The Nu Road Warriors get back some momentum and Road Warrior Dog hits a clothesline on Stasiak who crashes down to the outside into Dave Taylor.
The Nu Road Warriors have Jindrak up for a Doomsday Device but they seem to take their time a bit after the mishap that cost them the titles at Mayhem. This delay causes huge problems for them as whilst Animal has Jindrak up, Fit Finlay rolls into the ring and hits a suplex on Animal taking both him and Jindrak who was on his shoulders out in one blow.
Road Warrior Dog from the top rope then jumps down from the top rope and goes to start fighting with Finlay but Finlay picks him up and hits a Celtic Cross!
Finlay pins Road Warrior Dog and he gets the 1-2-3 as Animal and Jindrak's attempt to break up the pin are too late!
That's a big win for Fit's Fight Club says Tony on commentary. Their experience got them the victory tonight, says Arn.
The Nu Road Warriors look devastated at having lost, whilst Jindrak and Stasiak look annoyed.
Fit's Fight Club wins via pinfall - (9.28) - (45 rated)
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Shane's office with Shane McMahon and Rob Van Dam
Shane is looking defeated.
This awful mess is all your doing! Shane says to Van Dam.
You had the match won, you had Sabu beat, but you let that idiot get in your head, you were more concerned about taking him out then you were at winning that title! You're meant to be a team player in this company Rob! Mr Wednesday Nitro!
RVD gets defensive and says it wasn't his fault Alfonso turned on him how was he meant to see that coming? If Alfonso hadn't gotten involved and Shane hadn't delayed him at the entrance ramp then RVD would've flattened Sabu, taken out a big part of The Extreme Alliance who have been causing CHAOS in WCW since you took over... and then kept hold of the WCW United States Championship. The way I see it, you book the match, Friday Night Panic, Sabu vs RVD for the WCW United States Championship... and I'll get that title back!
Shane says to hell with that! He doesn't recognise Sabu's reign and on Friday Night Panic! it doesn't matter what his demands are! He's not giving into them!
RVD says Sabu is the champion, the fans know it, the boys know, it's part of WCW's title history now and Shane can either accept that and work on getting the title back to a WCW guy like Mr Wednesday Nitro himself, or he'll just look stupid, you want Sabu to defend that title against Ian Rotten in a Barbed Wire match for some indie promotion? Cause that's what's going to happen unless you smooth things out on Friday.
Shane isn't happy and says it should be RVD smoothing out the mess that HE created... but he says he expects RVD at Friday Night Panic! and he will be there too. Shane asks RVD if he is medically cleared to compete... RVD hesitates but says he's never listened to doctor's that much anyway, it's just advice, right? Shane looks concerned.
Freestyle segment with Shane McMahon and Rob Van Dam - (85 rated)
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Match 5:
Beat The Clock Challenge to be #1 Contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship
'Dr Death' Steve Williams (with Jimmy Hart) vs Mike Sanders
'Dr Death' must beat Steve Corino's time of 3 minutes 10 seconds or the match ends in a draw
Well Jerry, do you think 'Dr Death' has what it takes to beat Corino's time? asks Schiavone
You wouldn't bet against him that's for sure Tony! says Lawler
'Dr Death' comes storming out the gates aggressively against Sanders who makes a mistake in trying to go toe to toe with the man basically double his size. Williams nails Sanders with a huge clothesline that completely knocks the wind out of him.
'Dr Death' is my pick for this whole thing, guys! says Lawler excitedly.
Steve Williams gets Mike Sanders up and hits a big backdrop driver!
He pulls Sanders to his feet and puts him up for the Doctor Bomb and he nails him!
'Dr Death' goes for the pin and he gets the 1-2-3!
'Dr Death' Steve Williams wins via pinfall - (0.38) - (42 rated)
My god, what domination! says Tony
Arn Anderson adds that 'Dr Death' has not just beaten but he has blown Corino's time out the park. He's got the win with just 38 seconds on the clock!
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Backstage we see Booker T watching on at a monitor with Sharmell and his brother Stevie Ray
Booker looks a bit concerned but Stevie Ray and Sharmell are giving him a pep talk telling him that he's still got this.
JJ Dillon comes onto the scene and says, Booker, a quick word, your reaction to that knowing in the main event you need to beat a time of 38 seconds? 'Dr Death' has to be the favourite now doesn't he?
Booker looks at JJ then into the camera.
Booker says he ain't been the favourite for anything in his entire life. But he stands before the WCW fans as a former WCW United States Champion, 6 time Television Champion, 10 TIME World Tag Team Champion with my brother Stevie Ray... and a 4 time WCW World Heavyweight Champion... so JJ... can I beat anyone on this roster in a better time than 38 seconds? Of course I can! I'm one of the most decorated athletes in all of WCW history... I know I deserve this shot against Scott Hall after he screwed me out of MY championship and damn it tonight I get that win and at Fall Brawl I take back what's rightfully mine! Now CAN YOU DIG THAT SUCKA?!?!
Freestyle segment with Booker T, Stevie Ray, Sharmell and JJ Dillon - (84 rated)
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In the ring we see a table with a couple of chairs and a contract.
Sable comes to the ring and gets a microphone.
Sable says at WCW Mayhem, we saw one of the best women's matches in WCW history when the WCW World Women's Champion, Akira Hokuto, put her title on the line against former enemy and one of the best luchadora's that Mexico has ever seen, La Diabolica. Akira Hokuto retained that title... and the question on everyone's mind is who's next for her? She's defeated the best WCW has to offer, one of the best Japan has to offer, one of the best Mexico has to offer... well WCW fans I'm really excited to announce the newest addition to the WCW roster and my pick to challenge Akira Hokuto in a block-buster match at Fall Brawl
Wait a minute, says Tony.
Akira Hokuto vs Eric Bischoff at Fall Brawl?? exclaims Jerry. I hope it isn't a Bra and Panties match!
Eric Bischoff slowly walks towards the ring with a look of annoyance and unhappiness on his face. Sable is furious.
Sable says "Eric, I've had enough of you... but this... this is crossing the line! Who do you think you are-
Bischoff cuts her off saying "Well Sable, let me tell you sweetheart, the feeling is mutual. As the General Manager of WCW I gotta say I'm tired of your narcissitic self-promoting segments where you pretend to care and hype up the women in your so called Women's Division, when really it's all just about you.
Sable says "That's a lie, Eric. My job here is to-
Bischoff cuts her off again and says - "What? Your job is to put yourself on TV front and center taking the spotlight away from the women every week? And what are you talking about? Making a big song and dance about this announcement tonight. A block-buster match at Fall Brawl? Really? When you've probably just signed some other women from Japan or Mexico that American wrestling fans have never even heard of apart from a few marks sitting at home in their mum's basement??
Sable says "That's where you're wrong Eric. I've signed a woman who is going to change the face of the WCW Women's division forever... change the face of WCW and Nitro itself!"
"Oh give me a break!" says Bischoff. "You're damaging our show with these outlandish claims and quite frankly I think it's time I put a stop to it!"
Bischoff looks angry, Sable looks a bit concerned as Bischoff starts to slowly walk towards her.
Who is it? Who's Sable signed? asks Schiavone.
CHYNA in big letters lights up the entrance ramp screen
CHYNA?!?! shouts Schiavone. "THE CHYNA?!" demands Jerry Lawler
Chyna walks out to a huge pop as Bischoff turns round looking shocked.
Chyna walks down to the ring as the fans and announcers are both surprised.
Well folks, says Tony. Chyna, a former 2 time Intercontinental Champion, she had a dominant 4 month reign as WWF Women's Champion earlier this year, it only ended in July shortly before they couldn't agree terms on a new contract... but I don't think anyone thought Chyna would turn up on Nitro like this!
The hottest free agent in all of women's wrestling looks like she's set to sign a WCW contract right here tonight! adds Arn Anderson
Chyna gets in the ring and seems to tower over both Sable and even Bischoff looks a bit intimidated.
Bischoff looks up and down at her like he's seen a ghost or something. Sable smiles, Chyna looks at Sable and Sable gives her a quick nod.
Chyna out of nowhere nails Bischoff with a kick in the nuts!
HAHAHAHAHA!!!! laughs Jerry Lawler hysterically on commentary.
Schiavone says "oh boy, Eric's taken a sore one there, I'm not sure many could say it was undeserved given his contempt shown for Sable in the last few months here"
Chyna then grabs Bischoff by the mid-riff and she looks like she's going to lift him up for a Powerbomb!
"Oh no, I don't think that's such a good idea, Chyna!" says Tony, as Lawler pipes up that he thinks Bischoff is going for a ride!
Chyna lifts up Bischoff for a Powerbomb and then slams him through the table that had the contract on it! Bischoff goes straight through the table and looks destroyed in the ring.
"Oh my god!" sighs Tony, as Arn Anderson says he thinks Eric is knocked out cold.
Chyna manages to fish out the contract and a pen from the wreckage she has left in her weight and then she signs the WCW contract before dumping it on top of Bischoff's lifeless body.
The segment ends with Sable lifting Chyna's hand in victory in the ring.
The landscape of women's wrestling in WCW has changed tonight! says Tony. CHYNA IS HERE IN WCW!!
Freestyle segment with Sable, Eric Bischoff and Chyna - (54 rated)
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Match 6:
15 Man Open Cruiserweight Championship #1 Contender Battle Royale: Any Cruiserweight who has never been WCW World Cruiserweight Champion can compete
Tony Schiavone hypes up this match and then says that 1 of the entrants in this match we're told is a "Wildcard" entree who only signed his WCW contract tonight!
In the ring already we see Nova of the b.w.o, Christopher Daniels, Kid Kash, Kaz Hayashi and Jimmy Yang of the Jung Dragons, Kid Romeo, as well as AJ Styles and Air Paris of Air Raid.
The WCW World Cruiserweight Champion, Juventud Guerrera comes out to join the announcers for this match.
They ask Juvi if he has any preference and he says look guys I don't care who I face. I'm the best Cruiserweight in this place, man. Nobody is on my level, I proved that already, man.
On the outside we have Blue Meanie supporting Nova, Terry Funk with Christopher Daniels and Elix Skipper supporting Kid Romeo
We see Little Guido and Tony Mamaluke come out, both competing in the match, accompanied by Johnny Stamboli.
Next out is Mikey Whipwreck who comes out looking excited to take part in the match and get a potential title shot
Tajiri comes out with Fit Finlay and Dave Taylor in support of him from Fit's Fight Club, Finlay is giving lots of advice to Tajiri as he comes out.
Juvi gets up to clap as his two friends and stable-mates Psychosis and Super Crazy come out together.
Well they're coming out together, as have several other teams and friends in this match, says Arn, but when it comes to fighting for a chance at that title it's every man for himself.
Would you want to face Super Crazy or Psychosis, Juvi, asks Tony
Look Tony, they're my bro's you know but when it comes to the gold we will battle for it, man. They're great wrestlers. They deserve a chance for sure, we will see, if one of them wins, I'm sure we'll have the match of the night whenever we have that match for the title, man.
Tony then gets up and with a microphone says in the absence of the General Manager, Eric Bischoff, who I hear has been taken to a local hospital (fans cheer) I hereby announce the newest member of the WCW roster and the wildcard in this match... a man many of you, including you Jerry (Jerry acts surprised)... please give it up for 'SEXY' BRIAN LAWLER!!!
WHAT?!?! demands Jerry Lawler, as we see 'Sexy' Brian Lawler rush out and dance at the entrance ramp.
Oh come on Jerry, don't say you didn't know your own son had signed for tonight! says Tony, as Jerry Lawler protets he had no idea about it.
The Crusierweights in the ring look down a bit surprised as Brian Lawler takes in a decent pop from the crowd.
'Sexy' Brian Lawler of course a former 1 time Tag Team Champion... tonight he'll be making his claim to get his hands on the WCW World Cruiserweight Championship! Nobody's getting their hands on my title, man, says Juvi.
As Lawler gets in the ring the bell rings and the match begins!
The first minute of the match sees mayhem with everyone going at it. The Jung Dragons are fighting The F.B.I with Air Raid battling the two MexiCruisers in the ring, with everyone else duking it out amongst themselves.
The first elimination sees Psychosis throw Air Paris over the top-rope, Paris manages to stay on the apron but he then takes a drop-kick from Super Crazy which sends him crashing out.
Jimmy Yang is the next man out as Little Guido manages to clothesline him over the ropes and out of the match.
Kid Romeo goes on an attacking frenzy with Elix Skipper cheering him on from the outside. With Skipper's encouragement Romeo manages to elimate Tony Mamaluke, much to Little Guido's annoyance.
Just as this happens we see Carl Ouellet come out from the back.
What's he doing here? demands Schiavone. Carl Ouellet of Team Canada, I don't like this.
Elix Skipper runs over to Ouellet and gets a big smack in the mouth which takes him out. Ouellet walks towards the bottom of the ramp facing down at Kid Romeo, who is looking over at him, but this distraction gives 'Sexy' Brian Lawler the opening he needs as he dumps the distracted Kid Romeo out. Carl Ouellet smiles as if to say job done and walks off.
I think that was sabotage for what happened earlier tonight with Lance Storm! says Tony in disgust.
Meanwhile, in the ring we see Psychosis and Super Crazy battling Nova and Mikey Whipwreck. Little Guido is trading blows in the corner with Christopher Daniels. Just as we see that we see Tajiri hit a raelly stiff kick to AJ Styles before he hits another higher kick which sends the rookie flying over the rope!
Fit Finlay shouts on his encouragement from the outside.
Kaz Hayashi and Lawler are trading blows in the ring, Hayashi hits him with a lot of stiff kicks and Arn Anderson mentions he doesn't think 'Sexy' Brian Lawler wants to trade kicks with a guy like Hayashi, but just as he says this Psychosis hits a hurricanrana onto Nova, who goes crashing into Kaz Hayashi who goes over the rope but stays up, but just as he stands up and holds onto the rope Lawler clatters him off the apron to eliminate him.
Just as this happens Psychosis and Super Crazy team up and throw out Nova together.
We see both Little Guido and Christopher Daniels on the other side of the ring on the apron both punching each other and trying to throw the other one out. Kid Kash jumps up to the top rope and hits a tactical drop-kick which sends Guido flying into Christopher Daniels and the momentum means both men fall off the apron and onto the floor!
Kid Kash celebrates his double elimination in the ring but he takes his eye off the ball as Mikey Whipwreck from out of nowhere grabs onto Kash's trunks and dumps him out!
Just as Whipwreck does this he turns round and gets a green mist from his former tag-team partner in ECW, Tajiri! Whipwreck is stunned and grabs onto his eyes unable to see anything, before the Japanese Buzzsaw hits him with several kicks before eliminating him over the ropes with a clothesline!
Finlay smashes the apron in approval.
We're down to our final 4, notes Tony, as the 4 respective men take a corner and face off against each other.
Both of Juvi's stable-mates, Super Crazy and Psychosis of the MexiCruisers are still involved, as is Tajiri of Fit's Fight Club with Fit Finlay and Dave Taylor cheering him on at ring side... oh and of course our wildcard for this evening and the newest member of the WCW roster, 'Sexy' Brian Lawler! What a night it would be for him if he pulled off the victory on his first night
Is he your pick Jerry? asks Arn. Jerry says he still can't believe Brian is even here tonight, he didn't tell text or call or anything!
Juvi says it's typical WCW someone's Daddy getting them a job, man.
Psychosis and Super Crazy nod in agreement and by proxy we see Tajiri and 'Sexy' Brian Lawler look to make some kind of defacto agreement on the fly, but then Psychosis and Super Crazy say something to 'Sexy' Brian Lawler and he seems to agree and holds his hands up.
What's going on here? asks Tony.
Super Crazy and Psychosis then both go for Tajiri at the same time, with 'Sexy' Brian Lawler initially looking on and letting them go for it.
Tajiri being outnumbered here! says Arn. Tajiri hits several kicks but the two MexiCruisers have too much for him. Psychosis hits a hurricanrana, then Super Crazy hits a drop kick - which sends Tajiri over the top rope but just on the apron... and then finally 'Sexy Brian' Lawler clatters Tajiri off the apron sending him into Fit Finlay and Dave Taylor at ringside.
And then there were 3! says Tony.
'Sexy' Brian Lawler smiles at Super Crazy and Psychosis who eye him up and then look at each other and nod. Juvi says Lawler has bitten off more than he can chew, man. They outsmarted him, man!
Well I don't know if that was so smart from Lawler, says Arn, now it's them 2 guys against him, maybe he should'a teamed up with Tajiri to take them out first and-
Wait a minute! says Tony.
That's... that's David Flair! What's he doing here?! Flair stands at the top of the entrance way, as all 3 men in the ring look down towards him wondering what's happening.
OH GOD! shouts Tony, as we see Erik Watts, Flair's tag team partner, the much bigger man than the Cruiserweights in the ring clatter into Super Crazy from behind. He then hits a big clothesline on Psychosis, as Super Crazy gets back up we see 'Sexy' Brian Lawler take advantage by throwing him over the top rope and out.
Erik Watts lifts up Psychosis and hits a Chokeslam on him, before pulling him up and letting 'Sexy' Brian Lawler eliminate him!
'Sexy' Brian Lawler wins - (9.50) - (59 rated)
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Now wait a minute! says Tony. Could it be that The Sons of the South are in league with 'Sexy' Brian Lawler?
Lawler gives a huge to Erik Watts, as David Flair slides into the ring and they have a big group hug.
They are! They planned this! This is a scandal!
Juvi flips off his head set and starts talking angrily in Spanish as Super Crazy and Psychosis retreat to the back in a fair amount of pain but also quite unhappy. Juvi calls them over and seems to say he'll deal with this.
In the ring we see 'Sexy' Brian Lawler mock dancing.
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As we return from advert break we get a quick preview for Friday Night Panic! where it's confirmed again we will see a Triangle Match to determine who will face Fit's Fight Club for a shot at the WCW World Tag Team Champions... the match will see Barry Windham & Mike Rotunda vs Sean O'Haire & Chuck Palumbo vs The Harris Brothers!
Also on Panic! will be Sabu, Bill Alfonso and The Extreme Alliance as we hear their list of demands as Sabu, who not recognised but is in possession of the WCW United States Championship, seems to hold a lot of leverage over Shane McMahon.
DDP & Kanyon will team up against Lash LeRoux and Kwee Wee, plus Shane Helms will be in singles action, we have a Chavo Guerrero Jr sit down intervirew with Roddy Piper, plus we will hear from Dustin Rhodes following his heroic Ambulance match victory against Buff Bagwell at Mayhem
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Match 7 / Main Event:
Beat The Clock Challenge to be #1 Contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship
Booker T (with Sharmell) vs Jason Jett
Booker T must beat 'Dr Death' Steve Williams' time of 38 seconds or the match will end in a draw
Stevie Ray comes out with Booker T and joins the announce desk for this one.
Tony says it's great to have you here Stevie, but it has to be said, regardless of how this match goes you're not going to be out here long!
Stevie says Booker knows what he has to do and he has faith that his brother can do it.
If you're Jason Jett here tonight in the main event, it's a real opportunity says Arn, the kid's just gotta last 38 seconds and he gets a recorded draw on his record with a 4 time WCW World Heavyweight Champion in a main event of Nitro!
The bell rings and Booker is immediately on Jason Jett. He clotheslines him, Jett gets back up and Booker T tries to get him in for a Book-End but Jett is still fresh and manages to counter out of it and get a punch in.
Jett showing some real fight here! says Lawler.
Booker looks frustrated but starts brawling with Jett before managing to nail him with a DDT. He pulls Jett to his feet and goes for the Book-End again, this time he hits it! He rushes to get the pin...1...2..OH BUT JETT has his foot on the rope!
Booker was rushing there, Stevie! says Arn. If he'd taken an extra few seconds to pull him away from the rope he could've got the pin.
Stevie mumbles I know man.
Just 15 seconds left on the clock for Booker T!
Booker gets back up and Jett is slowly getting to his feet, he's winded though and he holds his abs as he bends down.
Could Booker go for the Scissor Kick?! gasps Tony. GET EM BOOK shouts Stevie Ray.
Booker has Jett lined up for the Scissor Kick, he pauses slightly to ready himself and make sure his back is up for it as this move has caused him damage intermittently since he got hit by the car... he runs the ropes and HE NAILS HIM!!
Booker goes for the pin!
1..2...BEEEEEEEEEEEEP
NOOO!!!! shouts Stevie Ray.
The ref counts the 3 but it doesn't matter as the 3 count came on the 39th second! Booker was 1 second away from equalling 'Dr Death's time but he's just fallen short. That brief pause, that uncertainty about whether he could deliver the Scissor Kick, that's what's cost him tonight says Tony.
Booker T and Jason Jett ends in a draw - (0.39) - (70 rated)
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As the broadcast goes off air we see Booker T looking devastated in the ring, with Sharmell comforting him as the announcers confirm the main event of WCW Fall Brawl will see the WCW World Heavyweight Champion, Scott Hall, put his title on the line against 'Dr Death' Steve Williams!!!
Show Rating: 76
1.03 TV rating (780K viewers)
