TNA's New Beginnings

[Nobby_McDonald]

<p><strong>Ring Kings card</strong></p><p>

Sunday, week 3, April 2003</p><p> </p><p>

RING KING - winner gets a future NWA TNA World Heavyweight Championship match</p><p>

QUARTER FINALS</p><p>

Potter v Samoa Joe (D heat)</p><p>

CM Punk v British Bulldog (D-)</p><p>

American Dragon v Jerry Lynn (E+)</p><p>

Rey Mysterio Jr v Jeff Jarrett (C-)</p><p> </p><p>

SEMI FINALS</p><p>

Potter or Joe v Dragon or Lynn</p><p>

Punk or Bulldog v Mysterio or Jarrett</p><p> </p><p>

FINAL</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

NWA TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP</p><p>

Ken Shramrock © v Shane Douglas (C-)</p><p> </p><p>

NWA TNA WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP</p><p>

Caribbean Cool © v C<em>o</em>cky Connection (D-)</p><p> </p><p>

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP</p><p>

AJ Styles v Sheik Abdul Bashir (E)</p><p> </p><p>

TNA LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP</p><p>

Mickie James v Awesome Kong v Tracy Brooks (F)</p>

[Nobby_McDonald]

<p><strong>Impact</strong></p><p>

Wednesday, week 3, 2003</p><p>

Livestock Expo Center, Jackson, MS.</p><p>

"WHO WILL REIGN SUPREME?"</p><p> </p><p>

(Pre show) America's Most Wanted defeated Briscoe Brothers in 6:40 when Chris Harris defeated Jay Briscoe by pinfall with a Death Sentence. D. America's Most Wanted looked good.</p><p> </p><p>

British Bulldog is in the ring, telling all how he will serve Queen and country and become the King at Ring Kings. <strong>E</strong></p><p>

Come on Davey Boy, you can do better than that...</p><p> </p><p>

Caribbean Cool then come to the ring and start saying how they will defeat C<em>o</em>cky Connection at Ring Kings. Jimmy Rave and Johnny Devine hit the ring and attack Carlito and Cabana in the ring with weapons, leaving them a bloody mess. <strong>D+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Jay Lethal v Matt Striker</strong></p><p>

Jay Lethal defeated Matt Striker in 4:34 by pinfall. <strong>D-</strong></p><p>

The crowd were unhappy with this match.</p><p> </p><p>

American Dragon had an interview backstage hyping the Ring King tournament and how he's in it to win it. <strong>D-</strong></p><p> </p><p>

The show cuts to Mickie James in the ring, where she has been attacked by Awesome Kong, who is currently beating away on her. Out from the back comes Tracy Brooks, armed with a chair. She slides into the ring, and takes a swing at Awesome Kong, who side-steps it at the last second. Instead, Mickie gets hit with the shot, and slumps down to the mat. Awesome Kong then lays out Brooks before standing over them both as her music plays. <strong>F+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>England Expects v Spank Wang (Spanky & Jimmy Wang)</strong></p><p>

Spank Wang defeated England Expects in 5:42 when Spanky defeated Nigel McGuinness by pinfall with an Oooo I Say! <strong>D-</strong></p><p>

Another match the crowd aren't happy with, then again, nobody seems happy with much at the moment.</p><p> </p><p>

It's CM Punk's turn to talk up his chances of winning Ring King, saying how he will do it having never smoked, drank or done drugs and how that is the complete opposite of British Bulldog. <strong>D+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Jerry Lynn attacks Rey Mysterio Jr backstage, then stomps on his body before leaving. <strong>D+</strong></p><p>

<strong>Jerry Lynn v Rey Mysterio Jr</strong></p><p>

Jerry Lynn defeated Rey Mysterio Jr. in 4:58 by pinfall with a Cradle Piledriver. <strong>C-</strong></p><p>

Another pairing who don't click, I seem to be finding a lot of these just lately.</p><p> </p><p>

A video plays, produced by and starring Jeff Jarrett, Samoa Joe and Shane Douglas. Along with numerous controversial moments unfit for broadcast, the trio insult Ken Shamrock. <strong>C-</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>TNA Hardcore Championship</strong></p><p><strong>

Sabu v Psicosis - ladder match</strong></p><p>

Psicosis defeated Sabu in a 1 vs 1 Ladder match in12:36 when Psicosis retrieved the belt. Psicosis wins the TNA Hardcore title. <strong>D+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

A music video is shown to promote Rey Mysterio Jr. <strong>D+</strong></p><p>

Even bankers like hyping Rey aren't getting ratings! What's going on?</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>TNA X Division Championship</strong></p><p><strong>

AJ Styles v Rocky Romero</strong></p><p>

AJ Styles defeated Rocky Romero in 9:58 by pinfall with a Styles Clash. AJ Styles makes defence number 19 of his TNA X Division title. <strong>C</strong></p><p>

Best action of the night thus far, but yet again there is a lack of psychology in AJ's match. He needs a lesson from Jake The Snake.</p><p> </p><p>

A music video airs hyping the promotion and Ring Kings, including shots of Jeff Jarrett, Ken Shamrock, and Potter. <strong>C</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Don West and Tenay give an update on the online fan voting on who fans will think will win Ring Kings. Potter currently has the most votes with 31%, followed closely by Jeff Jarrett on 29%. Rey Mysterio Jr. and Davey Boy Smith make up the next two on 20 and 17%. <strong>C+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Dragon, CM Punk & Potter v British Bulldog, Jeff Jarrett & Samoa Joe</strong></p><p>

Davey Boy Smith, Jeff Jarrett and Samoa Joe defeated American Dragon, CM Punk and Potter in 14:54 when Jeff Jarrett defeated Potter by pinfall after using a foreign object. <strong>D+</strong></p><p>

The right man lost, as Potter put in a poor performance.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show rating: D+</strong></p><p>

Attendance: 2000 (sellout)</p><p>

Ratings: 0.01 on Sunshine Network, no rating on WLMT-TV and MSG.</p>

[Nobby_McDonald]

<p><strong>Ring Kings card</strong></p><p>

Sunday, week 3, April 2003</p><p> </p><p>

RING KING - winner gets a future NWA TNA World Heavyweight Championship match</p><p>

QUARTER FINALS</p><p>

Potter v Samoa Joe (D heat)</p><p>

CM Punk v British Bulldog (D-)</p><p>

American Dragon v Jerry Lynn (E+)</p><p>

Rey Mysterio Jr v Jeff Jarrett ©</p><p> </p><p>

SEMI FINALS</p><p>

Potter or Joe v Dragon or Lynn</p><p>

Punk or Bulldog v Mysterio or Jarrett</p><p> </p><p>

FINAL</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

NWA TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP</p><p>

Ken Shramrock © v Shane Douglas (C-)</p><p> </p><p>

NWA TNA WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP</p><p>

Caribbean Cool © v C<em>o</em>cky Connection (D)</p><p> </p><p>

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP</p><p>

AJ Styles v Sheik Abdul Bashir (E)</p><p> </p><p>

TNA LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP</p><p>

Mickie James v Awesome Kong v Tracy Brooks (F)</p>

[Nobby_McDonald]

<p><strong>Ring Kings 2003</strong></p><p>

Sunday, week 3, April 2003</p><p>

World Arena, Colorado Springs, CO.</p><p> </p><p>

(Pre show) - Psicosis defeated Shark Boy in 9:05 by pinfall with a Guillotine Leg Drop. C-</p><p>

(Best pre show match yet!)</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>America's Most Wanted v Spank Wang</strong></p><p>

Spank Wang defeated America's Most Wanted in 4:45 when Jimmy Yang defeated Chris Harris by pinfall with an Oooo I Say! <strong>D-</strong></p><p>

An upset in the opening, and AMW are on a continued downward spiral. They look a long way off the tag champions they were not too long ago.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>RING KING QUARTER FINALS</strong></p><p><strong>

Potter v Samoa Joe</strong></p><p>

Potter defeated Samoa Joe in 13:22 by submission with a Sharpshooter. <strong>B-</strong></p><p>

Quality match, I couldn't have asked for much more from the tournament opener.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Dragon v Jerry Lynn</strong></p><p>

Jerry Lynn defeated American Dragon in 10:46 by pinfall with a Cradle Piledriver. <strong>C+</strong></p><p>

If you want a lesson in chemistry, look at the Ring Kings tournament!</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>CM Punk v British Bulldog</strong></p><p>

Davey Boy Smith defeated CM Punk in 8:49 by pinfall with a Powerslam. <strong>C-</strong></p><p>

Even what looks the weakest match of the quarter finals delivers solidly.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Rey Mysterio Jr v Jeff Jarrett</strong></p><p>

Jeff Jarrett defeated Rey Mysterio Jr. in 13:31 by pinfall after using brass knuckles behind the referee's back, who had been distracted by Samoa Joe. <strong>B-</strong></p><p>

Another quality match. I'm really please so far.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>TNA LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP</strong></p><p><strong>

Mickie James v Awesome Kong v Tracy Brooks</strong></p><p>

Awesome Kong defeated Mickie James and Tracy Brooks in 6:58 when Awesome Kong defeated Mickie James by pinfall. Awesome Kong wins the TNA Ladies title. <strong>E</strong></p><p>

Gah. I knew this would happen. Trouble was, I had pre booked it.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>TNA X DIVISON CHAMPIONSHIP</strong></p><p><strong>

AJ Styles v Sheik Abdul Bashir</strong></p><p>

AJ Styles defeated Sheik Abdul Bashir in 15:29 by pinfall with a Styles Clash. AJ Styles makes defence number 20 of his TNA X Division title. <strong>C-</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>RING KING SEMI FINALS</strong></p><p>

A video plays hyping Potter vs. Jerry Lynn, showing highlights of their quarter final matches. <strong>E+</strong></p><p>

<strong>Potter v Jerry Lynn</strong></p><p>

Jerry Lynn defeated Potter in 14:07 by pinfall with a Cradle Piledriver. <strong>C+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

A video plays showing how Davey Boy Smith and Jeff Jarrett reached the semi finals. <strong>E</strong></p><p>

<strong>British Bulldog v Jeff Jarrett</strong></p><p>

Jeff Jarrett defeated Davey Boy Smith in 10:56 by pinfall with The Stroke. <strong>D</strong></p><p>

Mmmm, bit of a mixed bag of semi finals. The second one is a let down.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>NWA TNA TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP</strong></p><p><strong>

Caribbean Cool v C</strong><strong><em>o</em></strong><strong>cky Connection</strong></p><p>

Caribbean Cool defeated C<em>o</em>cky Connection in 12:48 when Colt Cabana defeated Johnny Devine by pinfall with a Coolness Personified. Caribbean Cool make defence number 1 of their NWA TNA World Tag Team titles. <strong>C-</strong></p><p>

A solid enough match.</p><p> </p><p>

As we wait for the match between Ken Shamrock and Shane Douglas to commence, Don West and Tenay run us through the Tale Of The Tape. <strong>C+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>NWA TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP</strong></p><p><strong>

Ken Shramrock v Shane Douglas</strong></p><p>

Ken Shamrock defeated Shane Douglas in 18:45 by submission with an Ankle Lock. Ken Shamrock makes defence number 11 of his NWA TNA World Heavyweight title. <strong>C+</strong></p><p>

A good match, which would have been better if both wrestlers had sold moves better.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>RING KING FINAL</strong></p><p>

A video plays hyping Jerry Lynn vs. Jeff Jarrett in the final, and shows highlights of their two wins so far.</p><p>

<strong>Jerry Lynn v Jeff Jarrett</strong></p><p>

Jeff Jarrett defeated Jerry Lynn in 20:33 by pinfall with The Stroke. <strong>C+</strong></p><p>

Jeff Jarrett is then presented with a crown by Tony Schiavone as some of the crowd throw garbage into the ring. <strong>C</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show rating: C+</strong></p><p>

The show is considered a success and should increase TNA's popularity.</p><p>

Attendance: 5000 (sellout)</p><p>

Pay per view buy rate: 0.05 (TNA's highest yet)</p>

[CQI13]

If the pin in the Ring King Final match was clean, why would the fans throw garbage?

[Nobby_McDonald]

That's a good point... though Jarrett is the biggest heel in the company and he is being presented with his crown for winning.

[Nobby_McDonald]

Impact

Wednesday, week 4, April 2003

Bally's Atlantic City, Atlantic City, NJ.

"THE KING'S CHALLENGE"

 

(Pre show) Rocky Romero defeated Shark Boy in 5:56 by pinfall after using a steel chair behind the referee's back. D+

 

Tony Schiavone calls out 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett to coronate him as TNA's new King. During the ceremony, Ken Shamrock runs in and attacks 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett, much to the crowd's delight. C

 

Alex Shane v Jay Lethal

Jay Lethal defeated Alex Shane in 4:42 by pinfall with a Dragon Suplex. D+

Jay's performances are beginning to get back on track.

 

America's Most Wanted are in the ring with microphones. They claim that they are so good that they cannot be defeated by anyone, and so they are making an open challenge for any team on the roster to face them in a tag team match at May Madness. E-

 

Jerry Lynn is in the ring, which is decorated with red carpet and streamers. He is being arrogant and celebrating his recent success. B-

Wow, that came off really well. Kudos to Jerry.

 

Air Paris v Samoa Joe

Samoa Joe defeated Air Paris in 7:02 by pinfall with an Island Driver after a distraction from Shane Douglas. D+

JWO up to their usual tricks.

 

In the ring, an incensed 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett challenges Ken Shamrock to a match for the title at May Madness, he is mad at Shramrock's halting of his coronation and says he can't wait to cash in his title match. C+

Hmmm, the segments are better than the wrestling tonight.

 

America's Most Wanted v Spank Wang

America's Most Wanted defeated Spank Wang in 8:58 when 'Cowboy' James Storm defeated Spanky by pinfall with a Death Sentence. D

Spanky's performance impressed all.

 

Tony Schiavone comes to the ring with two annoucements. Firstly, he signs a rematch at May Madness, where Caribbean Cool will defend their Tag Team Championship against Cocky Connection. Secondly, he needs to spark up the Hardcore Championship, so he has decided that the title will be renamed the TNA Hardcore TV Championship and must be defended on every episode of Impact. Furthermore, if the champion does not defend on any given show, he will be stripped of the title. The change takes effect with the next match.

 

TNA HARDCORE TV CHAMPIONSHIP

Psicosis v Sabu

Psicosis defeated Sabu in a 1 vs 1 Ladder match in 10:36 when Psicosis retrieved the item. Psicosis makes defence number 1 of his TNA Hardcore TV title. C

A decent match, best of the evening so far, and maybe Schiavone's announcement has shaken up the Hardcore TV Championship to better things.

 

American Dragon and Shark Boy appear back stage to say they accept the challenge made earlier by 'Cowboy' James Storm and 'Wildcat' Chris Harris. E+

 

A video plays hyping the forthcoming CM Punk vs. 'Super' Steve Corino no disqualification match. C-

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v 'Super' Steve Corino

AJ Styles defeated 'Super' Steve Corino in 8:50 by pinfall with a Styles Clash. AJ Styles makes defence number 21 of his TNA X Division title. C+

Yes, happy with this.

AJ Styles is recovering from his match in the ring. Chris Candido runs in and attacks, beating Styles down into the mat. Tony Schiavone appears and remarks that since Candido seems to desperately want AJ all of a sudden, he can wait until May Madness where he will get an X Division title match. D+

 

Ken Shamrock appears and says that he accepts the challenge laid down by 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett, he'll face him in a World Championship match at May Madness. C+

 

Potter & Rey Mysterio Jr v Jerry Lynn & 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett

Jerry Lynn and 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett defeated Potter and Rey Mysterio Jr in 13:09 when Jerry Lynn defeated Potter by pinfall following Lynn hitting Potter with Jarrett's sceptor, as Jarrett distracted the referee. B-

Very good match to finish.

 

Show rating: C+

Attendance: 1835

Ratings: Sunshine Network 0.02, WLMT-TV 0.00, MSG 0.00

[Nobby_McDonald]

Current May Madness card

Sunday, week 2, May 2003

 

NWA TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Ken Shramrock v Jeff Jarrett (C+ heat)

 

NWA TNA TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

Caribbean Cool v Cocky Connection (E-)

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v Chris Candido (D-)

 

America's Most Wanted v The Masked Avengers (E-)

[Nobby_McDonald]

Impact

Wednesday, week 1, May 2003

Pohl PE Building, Colombus, MS.

'PURE MADNESS'

 

(Pre show) - Abyss defeated Air Paris in a 1 vs 1 Hardcore match in 6:48 by pinfall with The Black Hole. D

 

Potter is being interviewed backstage by Mike Tenay and challenges Jerry Lynn to a match, saying he is sick to the back teeth of how cheap all his wins have been of late. C

He can talk for England can that guy. Maybe his words will come back to haunt him though.

 

Jay Lethal v Nigel McGuinness

Jay Lethal defeated Nigel McGuinness in 4:41 by pinfall. D-

The match suffered as the two didn't gel.

 

SoCal Val is in the ring, and calls out Caribbean Cool to face her. As soon as they come out, they are jumped by Cocky Connection, who had been waiting in the wings in ambush. Caribbean Cool get taken by surprise and totally destroyed. D

Puts a twist into the tag title match at May Madness.

 

Rey Mysterio Jr. is walking backstage, turns a corner, and bumps into Jerry Lynn. Lynn says something that Mysterio doesn't like, and they start arguing. After some heated words, Lynn challenges Mysterio to meet him in the ring for a match at May Madness C-

It seems like everybody wants a piece of Lynn right now!

 

British Bulldog v Colt Cabana

Davey Boy Smith defeated Colt Cabana in 6:52 by pinfall with a Powerslam. Colt was suffering following Cocky Connection's beatdown of he and Carlito earlier on. D

 

'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett had an interview hyping his upcoming singles match with Ken Shamrock, which main events May Madness. C+

 

America's Most Wanted are shown sitting in the crowd watching the show, venting their anger about how much they have dropped since losing the Tag Team Championship, and how few opportunities they have been allowed to get back. B-

These guys are popular in the South East!

 

Cocky Connection v The Masked Avengers

Cocky Connection defeated The Masked Avengers in 7:50 when Johnny Devine defeated Shark Boy by pinfall with a Cocks Connect after a distraction from 'Cowboy' James Storm. C-

A decent match from two upcoming teams.

 

Tony Schiavone is in the ring with Potter. He says that he is very disappointed with Potter's performances of late, and he has been on a downward spiral over the past couple of months. Tony books Potter to face Psicosis in a non title match at May Madness, and if he doesn't win the match, he is fired.

 

TNA HARDCORE TV CHAMPIONSHIP

Psicosis v CM Punk - street fight

Psicosis defeated CM Punk in 10:02 by pinfall with a Guillotine Leg Drop following interference from 'Super' Steve Corino. Psicosis makes defence number 2 of his TNA Hardcore TV title. E+

The match was rated poorly due to it not being as good as their recent matches.

Following their match, Corino attacks CM Punk and leaves them sprawled on the canvas. E+

Seems like the whole segment was disliked.

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v 'Super' Steve Corino

AJ Styles defeated 'Super' Steve Corino in 10:45 by pinfall with a Styles Clash. AJ Styles makes defence number 22 of his TNA X Division title. B-

Styles steals the show again.

 

Jerry Lynn appears and says that he accepts the challenge laid down by Potter, he'll face him in a match next week on Impact. C

 

Before then, Potter has somebody to get through...

Potter v Shane Douglas

Shane Douglas defeated Potter in 14:09 by pinfall while using the ropes for leverage. C

Potter is beginning to look a beaten man, as his momentum is on the floor going into an all or nothing match at May Madness against Psicosis.

 

Show rating: C

Attendance: 2000 (sell out)

TV ratings: Sunshine Network 0.02, WLMT-TV 0.00, MSG 0.00

[Nobby_McDonald]

TNA News

 

tna.com announces two elimination matches for number one contendership. At May Madness, CM Punk, Jay Lethal, Rocky Romero and Kid Kash will meet, with the winning getting an X Division Championship match at Bound For Glory 2. On Impact next week, all the ladies will face off, with the winner getting a shot at Awesome Kong at May Madness.

 

An agreement has been reached with NESN to expand Impact into the New England area.

[Nobby_McDonald]

Current May Madness card

Sunday, week 2, May 2003

 

NWA TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Ken Shramrock v Jeff Jarrett (C+ heat)

 

NWA TNA TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

Caribbean Cool v Cocky Connection (E+)

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v Chris Candido (D-)

 

Potter v Psicosis - if Potter loses, he is fired (D-)

 

Rey Mysterio Jr v Jerry Lynn (C-)

 

America's Most Wanted v The Masked Avengers (E)

 

X Division number one contender elimination match

CM Punk v Jay Lethal v Kid Kash v Rocky Romero (E-)

 

 

 

Next Impact

 

Jerry Lynn v Potter (D+)

 

Ladies Championship number one contender elimination match

All active lady wrestlers (F)

[chopps4312]

Wow, being from Massachusetts i just didn't see NESN agreeing to airing wrestling. With the Bruins and Red Sox both on here and Charlie Moore Fishing taking up all the morning, i am just in awe that they accepted this deal. Good job for you though. As NESN is a huge network in New England.

[Nobby_McDonald]

That's great news.

I'm from England, so I have to admit I have little knowledge of US TV networks outside of the big players. They are listed as small in the game, so were a good option for us to expand into further territories in the US.

[Nobby_McDonald]

Impact

Wednesday, week 2, May 2003

Auraria Events Center, Denver, CO.

"SHRAMROCK SHACKLED"

 

(Pre show) - Abyss defeated Alex Shane in 4:36 by pinfall with a Shock Treatment. - E+

 

America's Most Wanted had an interview hyping his upcoming tag match at May Madness with The Masked Avengers. This will be their time, when they come out of their present rut. D-

 

A video plays hyping the Ken Shamrock vs. 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett May Madness main event. C+

 

TNA Ladies Championship number one contender elimination match

Gail Kim v Jillian Hall v Melina Perez v Mickie James v Sara Del Ray v Tracy Brooks

Gail Kim defeated Jillian Hall, Melina Perez, Mickie James, Sara Del Ray and Tracy Brooks in 9:42; the order of elimination was Tracy Brooks first, then Jillian Hall, then Melina Perez, then Mickie James, and finally Sara Del Ray. E-

The crowd weren't happy with the match, neither was Tracy Brooks with the booking. I need to review the whole women's division after May Madness as it has been very disappointing as of late.

 

Caribbean Cool had an interview hyping their upcoming May Madness match with Cocky Connection. D

 

A video plays hyping Jerry Lynn vs. Rey Mysterio Jr at May Madness C-

 

Jay Lethal v Kid Kash

Jay Lethal defeated Kid Kash in 4:11 by pinfall with a surprise roll up. D-

Another disappointment for the fans, as they sob into their beers.

 

Samoa Joe and Shane Douglas have a good old laugh and a joke, taunting Jimmy Yang and Spanky about how pathetic they are. D-

 

TNA HARDCORE TV CHAMPIONSHIP

Psicosis v Air Paris - first blood match

Psicosis defeated Air Paris in 9:14 when Air Paris was busted open. Psicosis makes defence number 3 of his TNA Hardcore TV title. E+

The crowd now appear to be in stasis.

 

A video plays hyping AJ Styles vs. Chris Candido on Sunday. D

 

The upcoming match between CM Punk, Jay Lethal, Kid Kash and Rocky Romero is hyped. E+

Is this going to be the worst show ever..?

 

America's Most Wanted v Briscoe Brothers

Briscoe Brothers defeated America's Most Wanted in 7:24 when 'Wildcat' Chris Harris was disqualified for low blowing Mark Briscoe. D-

Paramedics are now checking the pulses of people in the crowd.

 

Davey Boy Smith bursts into Tony Schiavone 's office and wants to know why he isn't in a match at May Madness. Schiavone tells him to calm down, ponders for a moment, and then tells him he will face Sabu on Sunday. D-

 

Jerry Lynn v Potter

Potter is walking to the ring when, out of nowhere, Jerry Lynn attacks. He connects with his finisher, leaving Potter out cold. C-

Jerry Lynn defeated Potter in 6:53 by pinfall with a Cradle Piledriver. C+

Defeated and seemingly broken in the ring, Potter says he need to reach very deep down and try and salvage his career on Sunday against Psicosis. He finishes by saying he might be forced to show a side of him that TNA, the fans, and even he didn't know existed. D+

Finally something to stimulate the crowd.

 

Ken Shramrock & Spank Wang v Jarrett's World Order

'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett, Samoa Joe and Shane Douglas defeated Ken Shamrock and Spank Wang in 13:11 when Samoa Joe defeated Jimmy Yang by pinfall after using a foreign object. D+

Douglas and Samoa Joe attack Ken Shamrock in the ring following the match, and leave him down and out. D+

 

Show rating: D+

Attendance: 2000 (sell out)

TV ratings: Sunshine Network 0.02, WLMT-TV 0.00, MSG 0.00

[Nobby_McDonald]

May Madness card

Sunday, week 2, May 2003

 

NWA TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Ken Shramrock v 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett (C+ heat)

 

NWA TNA TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

Caribbean Cool v Cocky Connection (D-)

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v Chris Candido (D)

 

TNA LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP

Awesome Kong v Gail Kim (F-)

 

Potter v Psicosis - if Potter loses, he is fired (D)

 

Rey Mysterio Jr v Jerry Lynn (C-)

 

America's Most Wanted v The Masked Avengers (E+)

 

X Division number one contender elimination match

CM Punk v Jay Lethal v Kid Kash v Rocky Romero (E+)

 

British Bulldog v Sabu (D-)

 

Samoa Joe & Shane Douglas v Spank Wang (E+)

 

The following matches have been announced on tna.com

Melina Perez v Tracy Brooks (F-)

Abyss v 'Super' Steve Corino (E-)

Air Paris v Sheik Abdul Bashir (F)

[Nobby_McDonald]

May Madness

Sunday, week 2, May 2003

Prather Coliseum, Natchitoches, LA.

 

(Pre show) - America's Most Wanted are shown arriving backstage. C-

(Pre show) - Frankie Kazarian defeated Robert Roode in 7:21 by pinfall with a Wave Of The Future. D-

 

'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett is shown arriving backstage in a limosuine. He steps out and walks towards the arena without Shane Douglas or Samoa Joe at his side. C

 

Air Paris v Sheik Abdul Bashir

Sheik Abdul Bashir defeated Air Paris in 7:18 following a low blow. The Iron Sheik distracted Paris. D

 

Melina Perez v Tracy Brooks

Tracy Brooks defeated Melina Perez in 4:41 by pinfall with a Pie In The Sky. E

 

Abyss v 'Super' Steve Corino

'Super' Steve Corino defeated Abyss in 7:33 by pinfall with an Old School Expulsion. D+

 

Samoa Joe & Shane Douglas v Spank Wang

Samoa Joe and Shane Douglas defeated Spank Wang in 5:43 when Samoa Joe defeated Jimmy Yang by pinfall with an Island Driver. Shane & Joe were very much on top in the match. D

 

TNA LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP

Awesome Kong v Gail Kim

Awesome Kong defeated Gail Kim in 4:35 by pinfall. Awesome Kong makes defence number 1 of her TNA Ladies title. Kong had the majority of the match. E+

 

British Bulldog v Sabu

Davey Boy Smith defeated Sabu in 11:13 by pinfall with a Powerslam. D+

These matches need to improve or this ppv is going to bomb...

 

NWA TNA WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

Caribbean Cool v Cocky Connection

Caribbean Cool defeated Cocky Connection in 11:37 when Colt Cabana defeated Johnny Devine by pinfall with a Coolness Personified. Caribbean Cool make defence number 2 of their NWA TNA World Tag Team titles. C-

Improvement already, even though Carlito and Devine were disappointing.

 

CM Punk v Jay Lethal v Kid Kash v Rocky Romero - elimination match, winner to face X Division Champion at Bound For Glory 2

CM Punk defeated Jay Lethal, Kid Kash and Rocky Romero in 15:37; the order of elimination was Rocky Romero first, then Jay Lethal, and finally Kid Kash. D+

The match was let down by an unusually poor performance from Punk.

 

Potter v Psicosis - if Potter loses, Tony Schiavone will fire him

Potter defeated Psicosis in 10:28 by pinfall with a quick cradle after Psicosis looked to have Potter beaten. C+

Potter breathes a huge sigh of relief as he leaves the ring, while Schiavone is heard cursing at the entrance way.

 

America's Most Wanted v The Masked Avengers

The Masked Avengers defeated America's Most Wanted in 11:57 when American Dragon defeated 'Wildcat' Chris Harris by stoppage with Harris locked in Arms Across America. Harris was holdinig Dragon when Storm swung a chair. Dragon ducked, Storm knocked out Harris before Shark Boy threw Storm out of the ring. C

After the match, with the ring cleared, 'Cowboy' James Storm and 'Wildcat' Chris Harris stare each other down. Neither breaks the stare, and it is evident their relationship is tense. E+

Despite AMW's popularity in the South West, the crowd hated this segment, which is a shame, as the match was good.

 

A video plays hyping AJ Styles vs. Chris Candido. E+

The crowd hated this too, despite Styles being arguably the most popular TNA wrestler in the region.

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v Chris Candido

AJ Styles defeated Chris Candido in 13:48 by pinfall with a Styles Clash. AJ Styles makes defence number 23 of his TNA X Division title. Styles looked very good. C+

Having picked up the victory, AJ Styles celebrates in the ring. B

Yet the crowd lap up this. Go figure.

 

Jerry Lynn v Rey Mysterio Jr

Jerry Lynn defeated Rey Mysterio Jr. in 17:12 by pinfall when he held onto the tights from a rollup. C+

 

A video plays hyping Ken Shamrock vs. 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett. C-

As we wait for the main event between Ken Shamrock and 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett to commence, Don West and Tenay run us through the Tale Of The Tape. C

NWA TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Ken Shramrock v 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett

'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett defeated Ken Shamrock in 19:52 by pinfall with The Stroke following interference from Samoa Joe while Shane Douglas distracted the referee. 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett wins the NWA TNA World Heavyweight title. C+

'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett, Shane Douglas and Samoa Joe are celebrating in the ring while the crowd voice their displeasure. E+

 

Show rating: C+ (should be considered a success and increase TNA's popularity)

Attendance: 5000 (sell out)

Pay per view buy rate: 0.05 (joint highest with Ring Kings 2003)

[Nobby_McDonald]

Impact

Wednesday, week 3, May 2003

FLC Fieldhouse, Durango, CO.

"SCHIAVONE'S SHENNANIGANS"

 

Pre show - Kid Kash defeated Alex Shane in 5:16 by pinfall with a Money Maker. D+

 

Backstage, Potter is seen arriving at the arena in a car. He grabs his bag and step outside, only to be attacked by Davey Boy Smith! British Bulldog ends the assault by slamming Potter against the car door, taunts him, then walks off. Schiavone is seen grinning in the background. D-

 

Backstage, 'Wildcat' Chris Harris confronts 'Cowboy' James Storm about his wayward chair shot at May Madness. The two have a heated exchange, before Cowboy leaves in a huff. D-

 

TNA HARDCORE TV CHAMPIONSHIP

Psicosis v Shark Boy - hardcore match

Psicosis defeated Shark Boy in 7:42 by pinfall with a Guillotine Leg Drop. Psicosis makes defence number 4 of his TNA Hardcore TV title. E+

 

Samoa Joe, Shane Douglas and 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett are in the ring, with Jarrett proclaiming that now he is a three time World Champion he ranks among the best wrestlers ever and finishes by saying he is supported by the two best wrestlers he can be in TNA. The crowd boo loudly. C

 

CM Punk cuts a promo hyping up his upcoming no disqualification match with 'Super' Steve Corino. D+

 

America's Most Wanted v Spank Wang

America's Most Wanted defeated Spank Wang in 7:17 when 'Cowboy' James Storm defeated Jimmy Yang by pinfall with a Death Sentence. Throughout the match, AMW are visibly argumentative with each other. D

 

Tony Schiavone is in the ring with Abyss and Air Paris. He says that they are both on a six week probation and he is booking Abyss to face Air Paris in a singles match at Bound For Glory 2, and whomever doesn't win the match, is fired. He may even fire the winner, if he doesn't meet his standards. Abyss and Paris both look angry, but Schiavone leaves before they do anything. D-

Abyss v Jay Lethal

Jay Lethal defeated Abyss in 6:39 by pinfall. D

Tony Schiavone appears backstage with Rocky Romero. Schiavone is wagging his finger at the screen, telling Abyss that he has made a very poor start on his probationary period. He introduces Rocky, who says he has been watching Lethal over recent weeks, and although his win-loss record is impressive of late, his standard of opponents has not been. Rocky then challenges Lethal to a Bound For Glory match. E+

Jay Lethal gets a mic from ringside and says that he accepts the challenge laid down by Rocky Romero, he'll face him in a match. D+

 

Jerry Lynn attacks Colt Cabana in the ring, and leaves him down and out. C-

Colt Cabana v Jerry Lynn

Jerry Lynn defeated Colt Cabana in 4:41 by pinfall with a Cradle Piledriver. Lynn was on top for most of the match thanks to his pre match attack. C

 

Tony Schiavone chastitses Potter, telling him he is washed up and a failure, that he is suspending his pay until he improves, and also that he will face British Bulldog in a Battle For Britain match at Bound For Glory. C-

 

CM Punk v 'Super' Steve Corino - no disqualification match

CM Punk defeated 'Super' Steve Corino in 12:56 by pinfall with a Pepsi Plunge onto a trash can. C+

Having picked up the victory, CM Punk celebrates in the ring. C-

Best match of the run between the two.

 

Backstage, Ken Shamrock is in a mad rage, destroying anything in his path while shouting the names of Jarrett, Joe & Douglas. C

 

Non title match

AJ Styles v Rey Mysterio Jr

AJ Styles defeated Rey Mysterio Jr. in 15:58 by pinfall with a Styles Clash. A thoroughly entertaining, and high quality match following zero build up. B

The match is over, and AJ Styles is celebrating. Rey Mysterio Jr. walks over and offers his hand as a sign of respect, and the two competitors shake hands. C

Is this the future of the company post Bound for Glory..?

 

Show rating: C+

Attendance: 2000 (sell out)

TV ratings: Sunshine Network 0.04, WLMT-TV 0.01, MSG 0.00

[Nobby_McDonald]

Current Bound For Glory 2 card

Sunday, week 4, June 2003

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v CM Punk (E+ heat)

 

BATTLE FOR BRITAIN

British Bulldog v Potter (D)

 

YOU'RE FIRED MATCH

Abyss v Air Paris (F)

 

Jay Lethal v Rocky Romero (E-)

[Nobby_McDonald]

TNA News

 

The B rating for the AJ Styles v Rey Mysterio match on Impact is the highest received for a TNA match.

The 0.04 rating on Sunshine Network is the best TV rating yet.

[Nobby_McDonald]

Impact

Wednesday, week 4, May 2003

Nashville Fairgrounds, Nashville, TN.

“GOLD RUSH”

 

Pre Show - Rocky Romero defeated Shark Boy in 5:38 by pinfall with a High Speed. – D

 

Briscoe Brothers are in the ring and they spy an opportunity to establish themselves in TNA on TNA’s grandest stage. They want America's Most Wanted at Bound For Glory! D-

 

Jarrett’s World Order are then seen backstage, saying how they rule the roost. They have one title, and want more. As yet, they do not elaborate. C-

 

Frankie Kazarian v Jay Lethal

Jay Lethal defeated Frankie Kazarian in 7:55 by pinfall following a Lethal Combination. C

A good match from the two, boosted by their strong work together. A potential feud here…

 

'Cowboy' James Storm and 'Wildcat' Chris Harris accept the challenge made earlier by Jay Briscoe and Mark Briscoe. AMW say they will crush them like they stomp on ants in their garden. They will meet at Bound For Glory 2. D-

 

Cocky Connection attack American Dragon and Shark Boy backstage, and leave them down and out. Tony Schiavone comes across the melee near the end, and says that if they want to fight so bad, they can at Bound For Glory, since he was looking for somebody for the two teams to meet anyway. D-

 

Kid Kash v Spanky

Spanky defeated Kid Kash in 5:33 by pinfall with a Sliced Bread No. 2. D+

What is Sliced Bread No. 1 then? Is there a 3?

 

Ken Shamrock appears in the ring, and shoots a promo about how he hates 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett and requests his rematch with him at Bound For Glory 2. 'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett does not appear, leaving Ken Shamrock frustrated. C+

 

NWA TNA TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

Caribbean Cool v Briscoe Brothers

The match was a no contest in 7:44 with Carlito looking to win over Mark, when America’s Most Wanted and Jarrett’s World Order stormed the ring and attacked the two teams. D+

 

Potter gets attacked from behind by Davey Boy Smith, who is brandishing a British flag. Potter however, repels British Bulldog, grabs the flag and snaps it in half! The crowd are going nuts, while Potter seems half pleased, yet half distraut. D-

 

TNA HARDCORE TV CHAMPIONSHIP

Psicosis v CM Punk – hardcore match

Psicosis defeated CM Punk in 8:39 by pinfall with a Guillotine Leg Drop following interference from 'Super' Steve Corino. Psicosis makes defence number 5 of his TNA Hardcore TV title. D+

 

Jerry Lynn has an interview in which he taunts Air Paris. C

Jerry Lynn attacks Air Paris in the ring with a weapon, leaving him a bloody mess. D+

Air Paris v Jerry Lynn

Jerry Lynn defeated Air Paris in 1:50 by pinfall with a Cradle Piledriver. Lynn totally dominated. D+

Air Paris is recovering from his match in the ring. Abyss runs in and attacks, beating Paris down into the mat. Abyss leaves with James Mitchell, both cackling. D-

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v ‘Cowboy’ James Storm

AJ Styles defeated 'Cowboy' James Storm in 11:36 by pinfall with a Styles Clash following botched interference by 'Wildcat' Chris Harris, which leads to yet another heated argument between the two. The Briscoes must be loving this. AJ Styles makes defence number 24 of his TNA X Division title. C

 

Samoa Joe and Douglas do an interview in which they say they hope Caribbean Cool enjoy their overnight stay in a local hospital, and challenge them for their titles at Bound For Glory. D+

 

Potter & Rey Mysterio Jr v British Bulldog & Chris Candido

Chris Candido and Davey Boy Smith defeated Potter and Rey Mysterio Jr. in 11:18 when Davey Boy Smith defeated Potter by pinfall with a handful of tights. C+

Rey looked very good, and helped boosted the match quality.

Chris Candido, in the ring, says he didn’t get enough in that match challenges Rey Mysterio Jr for a Bound For Glory match. Mysterio is on the entrance ramp, and declares the challenge accepted. D+

 

Show rating: C

Attendance: 2000 (sell out)

TV Ratings: Sunshine Network 0.04, WLMT-TV 0.00, MSG 0.00

[Nobby_McDonald]

Current Bound For Glory 2 card

Sunday, week 4, June 2003

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v CM Punk (E+ heat)

 

BATTLE FOR BRITAIN

British Bulldog v Potter (D)

 

Chris Candido v Rey Mysterio Jr (D)

 

The Masked Avengers v Cocky Connection (E)

 

America's Most Wanted v Briscoe Brothers (F)

 

YOU'RE FIRED MATCH

Abyss v Air Paris (F+)

 

Jay Lethal v Rocky Romero (E-)

[Nobby_McDonald]

TNA News

 

The Iron Sheik has been released one month before the end of his contract. His previous misdemeanours were a contributing factor, as is TNA's weakening financial position.

[Nobby_McDonald]

Impact

Wednesday, week 1, June 2003

Plachy Hall, Alamosa, CO.

"CHAMPIONS ANSWER"

 

Pre Show - Jimmy Yang defeated Robert Roode in 6:40 by pinfall with a Corkscrew 450 Splash. - D-

 

Rey Mysterio Jr is called to the ring by Chris Candido, who informs him that he has had some private investigators working for him and looking into the legality of Mysterio working in the United States. Candido concludes by saying Mysterio is an illegal, and calls for police to come to the ring. Mysterio is handcuffed and led away by a small army of policemen! D

 

A music video is shown highlighting Jerry Lynn's recent win streak, mostly thanks to pre match attacks. C

 

Briscoe Brothers v Special K

Special K defeated Briscoe Brothers in 4:55 when Kid Kash defeated Mark Briscoe by pinfall after using brass knuckles. D

Mark Briscoe put in a poor performance. He needs to improve if they want to be successful at Bound For Glory.

 

A video plays hyping the AJ Styles vs. CM Punk X Division Championship match at Bound For Glory. C

 

James Mitchell is backstage, standing alongside his client Abyss. He warns Air Paris that he faces being fired at Bound For Glory as Abyss will pound him into oblivion. E-

 

TNA LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP

Awesome Kong v Sara Del Ray

Awesome Kong dominated Sara Del Ray in 1:31 by pinfall. Awesome Kong makes defence number 2 of her TNA Ladies title. E

Kong was terrible tonight, although the two did show signs they work well together.

 

Tony Schiavone has Sheik Abdul Bashir in his office, who is whining about a lack of opportunity and plays a racism card. Schiavone reacts by saying he will get an opportunity, he will be in a match against Jerry Lynn at Bound For Glory. E+

 

Jay Lethal v 'Wildcat' Chris Harris

Jay Lethal defeated 'Wildcat' Chris Harris in 6:56 by pinfall following botched interference by 'Cowboy' James Storm. D+

Lethal & Harris showed some superb work together in the ring. That is something to consider post Bound For Glory...

 

CM Punk, in the ring, challenges 'Super' Steve Corino to meet one last time and settle this once and for all. Corino steps onto the entrance ramp, and declares the challenge accepted. D+

 

We find 'Cowboy' James Storm and 'Wildcat' Chris Harris exchanging words backstage following Wildcat's defeat to Lethal. The two end by staring each other down, but no more. E+

That's a disappointing rating. If this had been in the South West it would probably have been C+!

 

AJ Styles v Abyss - non title match, CM Punk guest commentator

AJ Styles defeated Abyss in 7:56 by pinfall with a Styles Clash. C-

Styles looks good, and proves again he can take anybody to a good match. One surprising element was how good Punk & West worked at the announce table.

 

Rocky Romero is in the ring talking trash about Jay Lethal, when he sees Jay Lethal gunning for him, and escapes through the crowd. Lethal gives chase, only metres behind his target. E+

 

The Masked Avengers then come to the ring to talk up their chances in the Bound For Glory match when Jimmy Rave and Johnny Devine hit the ring and attack Dragon and Shark Boy in the ring with weapons, leaving them a bloody mess. E+

 

TNA HARDCORE TV CHAMPIONSHIP

Psicosis v Sabu

Sabu defeated Psicosis in 8:47 by pinfall with an Arabian Facebuster. Sabu wins the TNA Hardcore TV title. D-

Very mediocre. The hardcore and ladies divisions just aren't producing, and I will have to completely evaluate these two divisions post Bound For Glory.

 

Carlito and Colt Cabana accept the challenge made last week by Samoa Joe and Shane Douglas. They say at Bound For Glory, on TNA's grandest stage, they will halt JWO's rampage through TNA. C-

 

CM Punk is walking to the ring when, out of nowhere, Jerry Lynn attacks. He connects with Cradle Piledriver on the concrete, leaving CM Punk out cold. C-

CM Punk v Jerry Lynn

Jerry Lynn defeated CM Punk in 0:36 by pinfall with a Cradle Piledriver. C

 

British Bulldog is in the ring singing 'God Save The Queen', badly. Just before the national anthem has completed, Potter's music interrupts to HUGE cheers. He enters the ring and cuts a promo against Davey Boy Smith. D+

 

Ken Shramrock v Shane Douglas

Ken Shamrock defeated Shane Douglas in 12:55 by submission with an Ankle Lock. C

Douglas was disappointing, unusual for the veteren.

'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett appears and says that he accepts the challenge laid down by Ken Shamrock, he'll face him in a match the Bound For Glory main event and that he stands no chance of getting back the title. C+

 

Show rating: C-

Attendance: 2000 (sellout)

TV ratings: Sunshine Network 0.04, WLMT-TV 0.01, MSG 0.00, NESN 0.00

[Nobby_McDonald]

Current Bound For Glory 2 card

Sunday, week 4, June 2003

 

NWA TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett v Ken Shramrock (C+ heat)

 

NWA TNA TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

Caribbean Cool v Samoa Joe & Shane Douglas (E+)

 

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles v CM Punk (D-)

 

BATTLE FOR BRITAIN

British Bulldog v Potter (D)

 

Chris Candido v Rey Mysterio Jr (D)

 

Jerry Lynn v Sheik Abdul Bashir (D-)

 

The Masked Avengers v Cocky Connection (E)

 

America's Most Wanted v Briscoe Brothers (E-)

 

YOU'RE FIRED MATCH

Abyss v Air Paris (F+)

 

Jay Lethal v Rocky Romero (E)

[Nobby_McDonald]

TNA News

 

Tony Schiavone appears on a video posted on tna.com on Thursday afternoon. In this video, he announces that on next week's Impact, there will be two Tag Team Terror matches, where opponents at Bound For Glory will become tag teams for the night. These are the two matches.

'The Ring King' Jeff Jarrett & Ken Shramrock v British Bulldog & Potter (C- heat)

Masked Avengers & Cocky Connection v Caribbean Cool, Samoa Joe & Shane Douglas (E)