TCW: A Quiet Retirement

[WrestlingGeek]

<p>Woohoo! My second T - Shirt!</p><p> </p><p>

Great show! Impressed by Tyson Baine vs. American Buffalo and how it got a <strong>B</strong> rating. Nice!</p>

[Phantom Stranger]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="WrestlingGeek" data-cite="WrestlingGeek" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><p> Great show! Impressed by Tyson Baine vs. American Buffalo and how it got a <strong>B</strong> rating. Nice!</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> I was pretty stunned myself. Honestly, I was hoping for maybe a low B- after their last C+ outing - the pair are more about their use in angles than in matches, and likely always will be (though with the right opponent, Tyson can pull off something special). </p><p> </p><p> Still, I'm not complaining.</p>

[Oregano Jensen]

I feel like I win the tiebreaker for predicting Fox Mask. Fox Mask!

[Phantom Stranger]

<p></p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/bookbanner.jpg</span><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/book_open-2.jpg</span></p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

<strong>Monday 1st June 2008</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Big day. Big for me because, while I'm down to watch the big June event for the Coastal Zone, two bits of business start.</p><p> </p><p>

First of all, a man I've had my eye on since I was tapped for the job just wrapped up his latest Japanese tour and is available to take bookings. I've put in the call, but we won't know whether we can match terms for a little while.</p><p> </p><p>

Still, he fits with a number of my longer-term plans, he's a good in-ring competitor... He's even got prior history with seven or eight of the current roster, parlayable into immediate feuds with two stables. </p><p> </p><p>

But this, ultimately, I knew was coming. What shocked me – shocked everyone, I think – was that a man I've worked with a time or two before has been informed that the SWF will not be renewing his contract.</p><p> </p><p>

It's... just barely... understandable. His gimmick there has suffered some real setbacks recently – though not as bad as one talented wrestler there I could mention, if it weren't for the lawsuit potential – and the thinking presumably is that with the signings they've made in the last five months it's easier to promote a new guy than to rebuild or repackage him.</p><p> </p><p>

But the reason I say 'just barely' is that at the end of last year I thought they might be ready to push him to the top. Needless to say, they haven't (in fact, he's worse off now than he was at the start) and because he's a good, dedicated, reliable wrestler whose only recent flaws have revolved around the fact he's been booked in a four-month feud with Runaway Train which has consisted entirely of Train destroying him in one last bid to stay relevant.</p><p> </p><p>

(Again: the comment two paragraphs back I deleted to avoid lawsuits. Consider that you're getting comments on Barry Bowen unedited like the above unedited and realise how much I hate the gimmick in question. Catch me at a FanFest and I may tell you who I'm talking about.)</p><p> </p><p>

It's not just a big day for me, though. A recent call-up – not Fox Mask – left the Coastal Zone without a champion. </p><p> </p><p>

Ronnie V. Pain hasn't had a top championship since 1996. Mind you – I just finished telling him this myself, and he agreed – the only reason he's got one now is that both the Plague/Ultimate Phoenix and Texas Pete/Steve Flash programs are already well established.</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/RonnieVPain.jpg</span><p>

<span style="font-size:10px;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">Would you put your top belt on this man?</span></span></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

It wasn't exactly the best main event CZCW's seen this year. I've asked Cliff to get the belt off him soon, just so the Coastal Zone doesn't try to coast on his popularity. It won't be enough.</p><p> </p><p>

To be fair to Ronnie, even at this late stage of his career, he's working hard to step up his game. It's just... not enough, and the wrong type of what there is, to head CZCW.</p><p> </p><p>

On the other hand, the SWF's equivalent territory, Rhode Island Pro Wrestling, has been forced to make Cheetah Boy its top attraction - twice. I talk to Mike Nero on a regular basis and from what I'm told we could have worse.</p><p> </p><p>

We just could have much, much better.</p>

[Phantom Stranger]

<p></p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalwrestlingbanner.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>We're coming up to the first Total Wrestling with matches made by Mayhem Midden. Following the events of Total Mayhem 13, Midden has granted Troy Tornado a match against the man who attacked him during his championship shot - Frankie Perez. Questions have been asked about Perez' actions - do they indicate an affiliation with the Syndicate?<p> </p><p> Also following on the heels of events during Total Mayhem, the Board Representative has called for a match between Wolf Hawkins and the man who finally shut down interference in his losing effort against Koshiro Ino, Johnny Bloodstone. We also expect to carry the first part of Bloodstone's interview with Horatio Dangerous after he carried over a third of the fan vote.</p><p> </p><p> Midden has confirmed that the Young Guns will face the Machines again at Excessive Force for the Machines' tag titles. Tonight, however, the Machines receive what could be called a 'warm up' match against the returning team of high flyers that is the Fly Boys, better known as Donnie J and Jimmy P.</p><p> </p><p> Another young team steps into the spotlight tonight as Natural Talent face off with Painful Procedure.</p><p> </p><p> We've also got action reminiscent of DaVE as dethroned All Action star Sammy Bach faces off with the Great White Shark Eddie Peak!</p><p> </p><p> Danny Fonzarelli buys himself respite from his issues with the Tag Team Specialists... but at what price? He faces the American Buffalo, and we can be sure the Buffalo will want to rebuild his reputation following his loss on Sunday.</p><p> </p><p> Lastly is our main event, and it looks to be incredible as Tommy Cornell and Sam Keith represent the Syndicate in a match against new International Champion Koshiro Ino and the man who stood at ringside for the World Heavyweight Championship match at Total Mayhem, Ricky Dale Johnson!</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> Prediction Key:</p><p> Frankie Perez vs. Troy Tornado</p><p> </p><p> The Fly Boys vs. The Machines (non-title)</p><p> </p><p> American Buffalo w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p> </p><p> Natural Talent vs. Painful Procedure</p><p> </p><p> Eddie Peak vs. Sammy Bach</p><p> </p><p> Johnny Bloodstone w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p> </p><p> Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</p>

[Bigpapa42]

<p>Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p> </p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines</strong> (non-title)</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo</strong> w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p> </p><p>

Natural Talent vs. <strong>Painful Procedure</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eddie Peak </strong>vs. Sammy Bach</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Johnny Bloodstone</strong> w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p> </p><p>

Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. <strong>Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</strong></p>

[Self]

<p>Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines (non-title)</strong></p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo </strong>w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p>

<strong>Natural Talent</strong> vs. Painful Procedure</p><p>

Eddie Peak vs. <strong>Sammy Bach</strong></p><p>

<strong>Johnny Bloodstone</strong> w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p>

<strong>Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson</strong> w/ Baroness Emily vs. Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</p>

[Regis]

<p>Prediction Key:</p><p>

Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p>

<em>P-Dawg can fail his way upwards.</em></p><p> </p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines</strong> (non-title)</p><p>

<em>The chances of Donnie and Jimmy upsetting the Machines? Zero.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo</strong> w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p>

<em>An off-the-wall pick, I know, but I think Fonzie has more long-term potential and an upset win here could do him good... Okay, changed it.</em></p><p> </p><p>

Natural Talent vs. <strong>Painful Procedure</strong></p><p>

<em>Jobbers.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eddie Peak</strong> vs. Sammy Bach</p><p>

<em>Sammy will still be creepy, and still be over.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Johnny Bloodstone</strong> w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p>

<em>Sorry, Wolf. Gatekeeper to the Main Event.</em></p><p> </p><p>

Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</p><p>

<em>Draw. Keep things a bit indecisive.</em></p>

[Greg McNeish]

<p>Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p>

<em>No-brainer here. Nice to see Perez get some rubs, though.</em></p><p> </p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines</strong> (non-title)</p><p>

<em>They'll roll strong into the Gunners return match.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo</strong> w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p>

<em>I really like Buffalo, as a nice gatekeeper. Here, he closes the gate on Fonzarelli.</em></p><p> </p><p>

Natural Talent vs. <strong>Painful Procedure</strong></p><p>

<em>Despite the nay-sayers, Painful Procedure have more to offer, at this early stage in Natural Talent's run.</em></p><p> </p><p>

Eddie Peak vs. Sammy Bach</p><p>

<em>I'm calling for a draw. Considering the players involved, it'll be brutal.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Johnny Bloodstone</strong> w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p>

<em>I see Wolf taking a powder.</em></p><p> </p><p>

Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. <strong>Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</strong></p><p>

<em>The Syndicate had their 15 minutes of fame, before Hawkins dropped the ball. They need a big night, to stay strong.</em></p>

[mad5226]

<p>Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p>

Frankie still has to pay his dues</p><p> </p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines</strong> (non-title)</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo w/ Floyd Goldworthy</strong> vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p> </p><p>

Natural Talent vs.<strong> Painful Procedure</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Eddie Peak vs. <strong>Sammy Bach</strong></p><p>

Maybe by DQ</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Johnny Bloodstone</strong> w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p> </p><p>

Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. <strong>Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</strong></p><p>

Reply With Quote</p>

[Hyde Hill]

<p>Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines</strong> (non-title)</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo w/ Floyd Goldworthy</strong> vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p> </p><p>

Natural Talent vs.<strong> Painful Procedure</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eddie Peak</strong> vs. Sammy Bach</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

Johnny Bloodstone w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. <strong>Wolf Hawkins</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson </strong>w/ Baroness Emily vs. Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</p>

[Tigerkinney]

<p>Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Perez does another competitive job </em></p><p> </p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines</strong> (non-title)</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Non Title it may be but I can't see The Fly Boys toppling the champs</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo</strong> w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Buffalo bounces back from his loss to fellow monster Tyson Baine</em></p><p> </p><p>

Natural Talent vs. <strong>Painful Procedure</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Yeah not a fan of Painful (to watch) Procedure but they are the more established team.</em> </p><p> </p><p>

Eddie Peak vs. <strong>Sammy Bach</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<em>DQ win, Bach bounces back with a 'win' but Peak still looks dangerous</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Johnny Bloodstone</strong> w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p> </p><p>

<em>I like McNeish's theory of Hawkins decided to wuss out by taking a powder when things started getting tough...so an unsatisfying count out win for Bloodstone.</em> </p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson</strong> w/ Baroness Emily vs. Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Could go either way but I think the babyface will come out on top here the new International champ Ino has been on a hot streak and it may as well continue here.</em></p>

[Marcel Fromage]

<p>Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p>

<em>Nice way to raise Perez's profile</em></p><p> </p><p>

The Fly Boys vs.<strong> The Machines</strong> (non-title)</p><p>

<em>The Fly Boys have arrived to give the Machines someone to beat up</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo </strong>w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p>

<em>I'd imagine you'll want to keep Buffalo strong. As for Fonzarelli, not getting the tag win on the big show means that it looks like you're holding back on any major pushes for him at the moment</em></p><p> </p><p>

Natural Talent vs. <strong>Painful Procedure</strong></p><p>

<em>I'll probably hit the TCW T-shirt Stall at this point</em></p><p> </p><p>

Eddie Peak vs. <strong>Sammy Bach</strong></p><p>

<em>by DQ, I imagine. Peak needs to look vicious, but Sammy needs to bounce Bach!</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Johnny Bloodstone </strong>w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p>

<em>It'll be some kind of unsatisfactory win - count-out, DQ or something</em></p><p> </p><p>

Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. <strong>Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</strong></p><p>

<em>The Syndicate get one over the faces here</em></p>

[WrestlingGeek]

<p>Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p> </p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines </strong>(non-title)</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>American Buffalo</strong> w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Natural Talent </strong>vs. Painful Procedure</p><p> </p><p>

Eddie Peak vs. <strong>Sammy Bach</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Johnny Bloodstone w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. <strong>Wolf Hawkins</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. <strong>Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</strong></p><p> </p><p>

P.S.</p><p>

Fly Boys? Is that, Jimmy P and Donnie J?</p>

[Phantom Stranger]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="WrestlingGeek" data-cite="WrestlingGeek" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><p> P.S.</p><p> Fly Boys? Is that, Jimmy P and Donnie J?</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> That's the fellers.</p>

[WrestlingGeek]

<p>Cool. I hadn't read the part before the prediction key. <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />. </p><p> </p><p>

Looking foward to this weeks show, dude.</p>

[Zeel1]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Phantom Stranger" data-cite="Phantom Stranger" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>That's the fellers.</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> You realize that's completely disregarding your developmental companies' main angle of 07..not nice. <img alt=":p" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> Anyway,</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> Frankie Perez vs. <strong>Troy Tornado</strong></p><p> Should be a fine match. Never really used Perez, but I know he's well-liked among C-Verse fans, his skills should mesh well with Tornado.</p><p> </p><p> The Fly Boys vs. <strong>The Machines (non-title)</strong></p><p> The former blood rivals don't have much of a chance in this. By the way, I'm shocked that you were able to get Prudence before SWF stole him, (Or beat SWF in a bidding war) they seem to take him immediately, every single time..</p><p> </p><p> <strong>American Buffalo w/ Floyd Goldworthy</strong> vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p><p> You seem to be pushing Fonzarelli, but Buffalo's been pushed slightly higher with a bigger name feud. Could be the start of his return to the Midcard, or Fonzarelli's rising, but I just don't see a gimmick like Danny's getting higher then low-level Upper Midcarder, especially in a promotion like TCW. That would be the main reason that I pick Buffalo edging him out here.</p><p> </p><p> Natural Talent vs. <strong>Painful Procedure</strong></p><p> Talent, as of yet, have not been that heavily presented, whereas PP are being kept, at the very least, a threat. Plus, their alignment with Tornado raises their appeal, I must admit. NT don't have much of a shot here.</p><p> </p><p> Eddie Peak vs. <strong>Sammy Bach</strong></p><p> Could certainly be a draw, as others have said. Peak starts out higher then Bach by a good bit, but Bach seems to have been pushed a bit harder recently..y'know what, could easily be wrong, but I'm picking Bach. He could use a win, coming off his AA Title loss.</p><p> </p><p> Johnny Bloodstone w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. <strong>Wolf Hawkins</strong></p><p> Bloodstone's still relatively new, and he hasn't been all that impressive so far. This should still be a fine match, but he doesn't seem tested enough yet, to want to put over the future face of the company here. Just doesn't seem like the best move.</p><p> </p><p> Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. <strong>Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</strong></p><p> RDJ isn't challenging anytime soon, and while Ino'd be a unique choice to go for the belt, he just won the International Title, and I doubt you're going to be unifying the belts, so Cornell and Keith keep The Syndicate dominant for now. By the by, are you going with them being Co-Leaders like I am? I feel like that's a little more realistic, because an arrogant legend like Keith doesn't seem like someone that would serve under anybody.</p>

[angeldelayette]

<p><strong>Frankie Perez</strong> vs. Troy Tornado</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>The Fly Boys</strong> vs. The Machines (non-title)</p><p> </p><p>

American Buffalo w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. <strong>Danny Fonzarelli</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Natural Talent vs. <strong>Painful Procedure</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Eddie Peak vs. <strong>Sammy Bach</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Johnny Bloodstone w/ Blonde Bombshell</strong> vs. Wolf Hawkins</p><p> </p><p>

Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson w/ Baroness Emily vs. Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</p><p>

<strong>Draw</strong></p>

[Phantom Stranger]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Zeel1" data-cite="Zeel1" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>You realize that's completely disregarding your developmental companies' main angle of 07..not nice. <img alt=":p" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> You realize you're making an assumption here? <img alt=";)" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/wink.png.686f06e511ee1fbf6bdc7d82f6831e53.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> Jimmy P is heel where Donnie J is face. This... I was going to say will, but is planned to would be better... come into play both in some of their matches and in a few Badge of Honor storylines. Expect that when they get momentum and build forward, either one member will turn or the team will break up - depending on how things go.</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Should be a fine match. Never really used Perez, but I know he's well-liked among C-Verse fans, his skills should mesh well with Tornado.</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> This is actually the first time I've used Perez in a major role, and the first time I've used him outside the Killswitch alter-ego (who found a home in the Comics Wrestling Alliance save I did which attempted to blend superheroes and wrestling). I've been meaning to for a while, and thus far he's done well for me.</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>The former blood rivals don't have much of a chance in this. By the way, I'm shocked that you were able to get Prudence before SWF stole him, (Or beat SWF in a bidding war) they seem to take him immediately, every single time..</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> They've signed a couple of the usual (Caulfield, Devine, Parker) and Genghis Rahn. It;s been a little odd, actually... </p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>By the by, are you going with them being Co-Leaders like I am? I feel like that's a little more realistic, because an arrogant legend like Keith doesn't seem like someone that would serve under anybody.</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> Well, thus far we've seen a lot of Tommy doing ordering, and a fair amount of Sam Keith quietly arranging interference and assaults, some of which Tommy Cornell's complained about him doing. I guess it's like the question of who the true heel between Edd and Sammy is (I'm expecting one of them to reach a point where I mechanically 'turn' them soon, even if it doesn't change how they act a great deal*, based off diary readers (read: Fan) reaction.)</p><p> </p><p> * - Most of my favourite turns haven't involved a massive immediate change in behaviour.</p>

[Phantom Stranger]

<p></p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/TCW.jpg</span><p>

<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4GAXzWf5ag" rel="external nofollow"><span>http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k235/Bigpapa42_2006/Wrestling/Main/Other/Playegg_28207.jpg</span></a></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>TCW Presents Total Wrestling</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

Tuesday Week 1 June 2008</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

Live on GNN Total Sports (Rating 3.01)</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

Held at the Isaak Road Arena (Mid Atlantic)</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 14,250</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

Announcers:</strong></p><p><strong>

</strong><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/JasonAzaria_alt1.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/HoratioDangerous_FIN6a.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/ShawnDoakes.jpg</span></p><p><strong>

Jason Azaria – Horatio Dangerous – Shawn Doakes</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/MayhemMidden.jpg</span></p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

As the show opens Mayhem Midden stands in the ring. “First things first,” he says. “Troy, I'd like you to step on out here. And if the Champ could see his way clear to getting out here, it'd be worthwhile.”</p><p> </p><p>

He glances around the audience. While you guys are waiting, I've got a thing or two to show you.” A nod to the screen. “Roll the first tape.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>RDJ gets into Cornell's face at that point, steering him back into the ring. Cornell yells right back. </em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

Sam Sparrow goes over to play peacemaker and the young turk Frankie Perez slides into the ring. One low blow to Tornado later he plays to the crowd, setting up for a big kick – and as he hits it RDJ finally notices, diving into the ring.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

...</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

Cornell punches RDJ damn hard, and RDJ goes down - </em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

And the bell rings. Sam Sparrow, recovered, has seen the champion strike an official and is calling for the bell.</em></p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/TroyTornado_nacht6.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/TommyCornell_alt5.jpg</span></p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

As the clip ends, Tornado and Cornell are in the ring, Cornell sporting the belt over one shoulder of his sharp suit, Tornado dressed to compete. </p><p> </p><p>

“I made it pretty clear, I hoped, that the Syndicate were banned from ringside, Tommy,” Midden says. “Here's notice – If I find out that Frankie Perez is Syndicate, I'm going to make you pay for that.”</p><p> </p><p>

“I'm not saying he is,” Cornell begins. “I'm not saying he isn't. But you banned the Machines. You banned Sam, you banned Edd, you banned Wolf. Frankie's name ain't on that list.”</p><p> </p><p>

Midden growls. “Be that as it may,” he says, “I'm giving Troy one last chance to seal the deal at Excessive Force.</p><p> </p><p>

“That goes alongside the Young Guns getting another shot at the Machines after they cheated. Now Troy- I need you to understand that this is your last chance.</p><p> </p><p>

“The Board want this company to shine. If you can't get the belt off Tommy fair and square, then someone else gets to try. If no one can, Tommy keeps it. In this company, you win the title when you're the best and you can prove it.”</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/FrankiePerez.jpg</span> vs. <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/TroyTornado_nacht6.jpg</span></p><p>

Frankie Perez vs. Troy Tornado</p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

Perez seems more dangerous with every outing. Maybe he doesn't stand much of a chance of beating a motivated Tornado – but then, Tornado is the number one contender, and at that one who holds a victory over the champion if only by disqualification. </p><p> </p><p>

That said, the fans love this. Perez doesn't back down and there are moments, if brief ones, where he gives as good as he gets – but what he gets is unceasing and unmerciful. Around the eighth minute, the Star Maker ends this in Tornado's favour, but Perez has never looked better.</p><p>

<span style="text-decoration:underline;">Troy Tornado defeated Frankie Perez</span></p><p>

Rating: <strong>B</strong></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/DonnieJ.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/JamesPrudence.jpg</span> vs. <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/BrentHill_alt2.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/HumanArsenal_alt4.jpg</span></p><p>

The Fly Boys vs. The Machines</p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

Not a bad little redebut for the Fly Boys, even if they do find themselves fed to the meat grinder somewhat – as Doakes puts it. They're not on a par with Painful Procedure in recognition, they've little momentum – and yet this match is received as well as the Machines' title defence at Where Angels Fear To Tread.</p><p> </p><p>

John Anderson seems to disrespect the Fly Boys' ability, however, not really putting his heart into his offence. That said, it's Anderson who picks up the win, dumping Donnie J with an Ammo Dump to leave him lying. </p><p>

<span style="text-decoration:underline;">The Machines defeated the Fly Boys</span></p><p>

Rating: <strong>C</strong></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/HoratioDangerous_FIN6a.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/JohnnyBloodstone_alt2.jpg</span></p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

Back from commercial, the camera dwells on a pre-taped interview; Horatio Dangerous sits opposite Johnny Bloodstone.</p><p> </p><p>

“Good evening,” he begins.</p><p> </p><p>

“The man across from me,” says Horatio Dangerous, “first appeared on TCW programming a little over a month ago, at the side of an old favourite TCW star – the Blonde Bombshell. Before that he hadn't been seen in the United States for a year and a half.</p><p> </p><p>

“At that time, he held the USPW National Championship, a belt that before him had been held by TCW's own Rick Law among others. He devoted his attentions entirely to Canada after losing it, to his native land, to concentrate on his work as part of the largest company in Canada – from where he is doubtless familiar to our Canadian fans as, among other things, undefeated holder of their Canadian Championship, having come to our company before anyone succeeded in winning it from him.</p><p> </p><p>

“He is, of course, Johnny Bloodstone. Johnny – your surname isn't actually your own, as I understand it...”</p><p> </p><p>

Bloodstone chuckles. “No,” he says. “But then, I think your own birth certificate doesn't read 'Dangerous'. At least, I hope it doesn't.”</p><p> </p><p>

Horatio smiles. “No,” he says. “That said – Bloodstone. Obviously it was coined by the men who trained you, the legendary Stone family, as a reference to them. They promoted you from very early as having a vendetta with them... Actually, as I touch on it, any truth to that?”</p><p> </p><p>

“Not to start with.” Johnny grins a wicked-sharp grin. “But when I began, I didn't have what it took to beat them, and learning took time. And when you're losing repeatedly to someone it does start to frustrate you...”</p><p> </p><p>

Dangerous nods. “I wrestled the original Dan Stone,” he says. “I can understand that. So that, I suppose, is where the anger came from. I'll note, however, that so far as I'm aware in your time here, you've not targeted Edd Stone, the only Stone here to face.”</p><p> </p><p>

“That's right,” Bloodstone nods. “I'm sure we'll lock up sooner or later. But I've other things on my plate.”</p><p> </p><p>

“Yet you still go by Bloodstone...”</p><p> </p><p>

“Well, it's like this,” the wrestler smiles easily. “My name may be John Baker, and if I'd used that when I began, I'd probably use it today.</p><p> </p><p>

“But Johnny Bloodstone is the name I've won championships under. Johnny Bloodstone has wrestled on national television in Canada – I missed out on USPW's TV deal.</p><p> </p><p>

“I don't see why I should start to build my reputation all over again, just because the people who trained me and gave me my first matches decided not to promote my appearances under my real name.</p><p> </p><p>

“Call me Johnny Bloodstone. I'm fine with that. It's a name that, I think, has developed a pedigree.”</p><p> </p><p>

“Let's talk about your training,” Dangerous says. “You attended one of what have become a legendary series of training sessions set up by the Stone family-”</p><p> </p><p>

“By Jeremy and Dan Junior,” Bloodstone chimes in, picking up the story. “They offered free sessions during a summer tour of Canada. Each session lasted an hour and it was really basic stuff, your standard exercise and physio. A lot of athletes in other sports attended and, I'll tell you, plenty of them couldn't hack it.”</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/AmericanBuffalo.jpg</span> w/ <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/FloydGoldworthy.jpg</span> vs. <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/DannyFonzarelli.jpg</span></p><p>

American Buffalo w/ Floyd Goldworthy vs. Danny Fonzarelli</p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

The worst contest of the night thus far; it's very by-the-numbers, with Buffalo's best offence mostly left aside for people who've pissed him off. Punch. Kick. Punch. Slam. Kick. Kick. Clothesline. Punch. It's like watching a small European promotion full of bull shark fuelled hosses. The promise and fire of his battle just two days earlier is gone, though the announce team manage to salvage it a little by drawing attention to the still-healing scars on his back.</p><p> </p><p>

The biggest moment comes when Fonzarelli goes for the Buffalo's own Colt Killa, but the Buffalo powers out and lands the Stampede not much later.</p><p>

<span style="text-decoration:underline;">American Buffalo defeated Danny Fonzarelli</span></p><p>

Rating: <strong>D+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/EricTyler.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/Acid_alt2.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/FreddyHuggins.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/LauraCatherineHuggins.jpg</span></p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

<em>Bad to the Bone</em> begins to play, heralding Eric Tyler's approach to the ring. The School of Tradition – Acid, Freddy Huggins, and his sister Laura – come with him. </p><p> </p><p>

“I said I was bringing it back,” Tyler begins. “So here we are, back. The School of Tradition.</p><p> </p><p>

“Acid here, I've worked with before. Freddy's shown the proper respect.</p><p> </p><p>

“But we need more. We need... an army.” He smirks. “Time was I had one. Guide, Scout – come on out.”</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/Guide.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/Scout.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p>

<em>Seek & Destroy</em> hits, and the New Wave emerge, staying well away from the ring.</p><p> </p><p>

“Good to see you, boys,” Tyler begins. “Ready to pick up the torch again?”</p><p> </p><p>

Silence.</p><p> </p><p>

“I only ask once,” Eric growls. “But for you two, you've done service before. I'll make an exception. You in?”</p><p> </p><p>

Guide extends a single hand, and while the blurring is quickly applied, the fact it shows only one finger is clear.</p><p> </p><p>

The crowd reaction drowns Tyler's first attempt at a comeback, and the New Wave leave.</p><p> </p><p>

Tyler's face runs through a marathon of emotion. “Fine,” he says. “You're on the list.”</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/EddieHoward.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/DCRayne.jpg</span> vs. <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/BillyJackShearer.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/RandallHopkirk.jpg</span></p><p>

Natural Talent vs. Painful Procedure</p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

And there turn out to be depths below even the Buffalo/Fonzarelli match. </p><p> </p><p>

Short, brutal, and unsupported by the fans. As much as the match should receive some level of recap, it would be kinder to spare you. Hopkirk ends it with a Randallism.</p><p>

<span style="text-decoration:underline;">Painful Procedure defeated Natural Talent</span></p><p>

Rating; <strong>E+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/EddiePeak.jpg</span> vs. <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/SammyBach_alt1.jpg</span></p><p>

Eddie Peak vs. Sammy Bach</p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

They've a fight on their hands here quite apart from the one in the ring, trying to win the fans back to the contest. It helps that Peak and Bach's years together have given them a natural understanding of each others' skills and abilities. </p><p> </p><p>

Sammy does better in this match than he has in any of their prior encounters, seeming to welcome the ferocity of Eddie's assault. There's a moment, just before the first Peak of Perfection, where it looks as if Sammy has a counter ready – and then doesn't go for it. Following the impact, Bach kicks out and goes back to the attack with a renewed vigour – which just seems to encourage Eddie to hit harder. Neither man is willing to give an inch, and as Sammy starts to vary his attack Peak can be seen to introduce some new moves simply to block and buy time.</p><p> </p><p>

Despite all this it is, ultimately, the Peak of Perfection that carries the day on its second application. </p><p>

<span style="text-decoration:underline;">Eddie Peak defeated Sammy Bach</span></p><p>

Rating: <strong>C+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/JohnnyBloodstone_alt2.jpg</span> w/ <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/BlondeBombshell.jpg</span> vs. <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/WolfHawkins_alt3.jpg</span></p><p>

Johnny Bloodstone w/ Blonde Bombshell vs. Wolf Hawkins</p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

With the crowd back to enjoying the show, this pair are ready to give it their all, and so they do, with a rolling combat that seems close to boiling over on several occasions as Bloodstone looks more and more likely to lose his cool – but somehow stops himself each time.</p><p> </p><p>

Without that pent-up fury to coax out and work around, Hawkins resorts to trying to outthink a master of the mat, with limited success. A calm Bloodstone is, simply, able to wrestle on a level with almost anyone you can name, and Wolf's main advantage is speed. He keeps as much of the battle airborne as he can, but a Full Moon Rising attempt is caught, turned into a takedown, and Bloodstone begins to systematically work over Hawkins' leg.</p><p> </p><p>

Hawkins actually grabs the ref's shirt in pain here and, as Sam Sparrow pulls back, it tugs Hawkins closer to the ropes – allowing him to grip them and force a break. Sparrow doesn't seem happy, and is less so in moments to come as Hawkins rakes Bloodstone's eyes; despite this the Canadian doesn't fly into his famed rage, but goes back to his tactical stalking.</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/SamKeith_alt2.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p>

In the end, desperate, Hawkins draws Sparrow's attention with a faked knee injury. As Sparrow looks on, Sam Keith slips into the ring and lands the Neutron Plex on Bloodstone. As he staggers to his feet a suddenly-limber Hawkins strikes with the Full Moon Rising, securing a fast pinfall. </p><p>

<span style="text-decoration:underline;">Wolf Hawkins defeated Johnny Bloodstone</span></p><p>

Rating: <strong>B</strong></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/KoshiroIno.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/RickyDaleJohnson.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/SamKeith_alt2.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/TommyCornell_alt5.jpg</span></p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

In a rare move, the camera goes to the Crippler Position where both teams involved in the main event are warming up. Johnson walks across to Cornell.</p><p> </p><p>

“I don't want to hear any messing about,” he says, soft and straightforward. “I just want you to look me in the eye and tell me you weren't responsible for that crap on Sunday.”</p><p> </p><p>

Cornell steps up to him, meeting his gaze steadily, and gets ready to speak, a hush over the crowd. “Meaning Frankie?”</p><p> </p><p>

“Meaning Frankie?”</p><p> </p><p>

“OK,” Cornell says. He looks RDJ in the eyes and takes a deep breath.</p><p> </p><p>

“It's none of your damn business.”</p><p> </p><p>

Johnson looks as though he wishes to say more, but Tommy Cornell's music starts to play. The World Champion and Sam Keith duck out onto the entrance ramp.</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/totalbanner.jpg</span><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/KoshiroIno.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/RickyDaleJohnson.jpg</span> w/ <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/QueenEmily_FS2.jpg</span> vs. <span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/SamKeith_alt2.jpg</span><span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/TommyCornell_alt5.jpg</span></p><p>

Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson vs. Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</p></div><p></p><p></p><p>

A champion apiece and a hell of a brawl. Johnson may not be able to challenge for Cornell's championship, but his anger at the Champion is currently well stoked and he does well in assaulting him, taking out the frustrations of the past two months on him whenever they're both in the ring.</p><p> </p><p>

Cornell has a better time of it fighting Ino, but it's still tough no matter what.</p><p> </p><p>

In the end, Sam Keith has to step in to take the punishment; a great wrestler, Keith is like Cornell in that he will always give as good as he gets; his problem here is simply that his opponents are younger and more resilient.</p><p> </p><p>

Johnson hits the Southern Justice. Cornell is already coming into the ring to break up a pin – and Ino vaults the rope, sprinting to block it, but the Kobra's Bite is countered into a Rough Ride.</p><p> </p><p>

It's nonetheless delay enough to stop Cornell from reaching the pin in time.</p><p>

<span style="text-decoration:underline;">Koshiro Ino & Ricky Dale Johnson defeated Sam Keith & Tommy Cornell</span></p><p>

Rating:<strong> B+</strong></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>Show Rating: B</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p>

[Phantom Stranger]

<p>Notes:</p><p> </p><p>

- Already, in very real terms, the Lower Midcarder Frankie Perez is giving me more bang for my buck than the fringe main eventer American Buffalo</p><p> </p><p>

- That tag match. OUCH. Natural Talent still need work and exposure, and I'm as aware as my readers that Painful Procedure ain't exactly great. I'd still expected around a D, though, which would have served Talent well. </p><p> </p><p>

- Why did TCW can the Fly Boys, exactly? They aren't as over as the Procedure, they've had no build, and they still did just as well against the Machines as Procedure did after some major promo work to boost their momentum.</p>

[Hyde Hill]

<p>Yeah I always bring back the Boys if SWF doesn't go for Prudence. The Tokyo Express can fare very well too as of course the DWB. The reason for the canning in story terms was the dismantling of the cruiserweight division but as you are bringing the All Action more to the forefront as something similar and you let the flyers hang with the bigger guys there is no problem too their return.</p><p> </p><p>

PS 100 percent predictions whoohoo!</p>

[Phantom Stranger]

<p>As noted, Hyde can claim a perfect prediction score on this episode - and he's the only one to do so.</p><p> </p><p>

So congratulations, Hyde, you get the new Wolf Hawkins shirt...</p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/Merchandise/wolfshirt1.jpg</span></p>

[Regis]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Phantom Stranger" data-cite="Phantom Stranger" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="23671" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>- That tag match. OUCH. Natural Talent still need work and exposure, and I'm as aware as my readers that Painful Procedure ain't exactly great. I'd still expected around a D, though, which would have served Talent well.</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> It is a sad fact that while I love the Procedure boys a lot, they cannot carry a lesser team. Their opponents need the requisite levels of both talent and overness to make up for the talent that Randall and Billy lack. They need main event overness to deliver midcard results if they're doing the heavy lifting, as they were in this case.</p><p> </p><p> Alas, Natural Talent. You're good boys, but you're just not there yet.</p>

[Phantom Stranger]

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/bookbanner.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/book_open-2.jpg

 

Wednesday June 3rd 2008

Eddie and D.C. - Natural Talent – are on their way back to development. They aren't happy about it and, truth be told, neither am I.

 

I brought them up with the intent that they'd fit in as an undercard team, putting up good fights before going down to our established teams. And to this point, they'd done that. I was happy with them.

 

I shouldn't have put them up against Painful Procedure. Billy Jack and Randall didn't have the... not experience, so while I hate to say it... ability to lead the youngsters to something watchable.

 

What they do have, however, is the weight of time served on their side. The Procedure have drawn a lot of money over the years, and that money's gone to their opponents as well. The Tag Team Specialists have had reason to be grateful to them, and the Machines have feuded with them pretty reliably.

 

I can't prove it, but I think someone managed to sell Tommy on the notion that the disaster that was their match was Eddie and D.C.'s fault, and put in an even more damaging argument – damaging in that it's one I can't really counter.

 

If we try to push Natural Talent now, they're dead in the water so long as the fans remember that match. A few months hidden away, learning a few new tricks, and they can come back bigger and more credible than they ever were before, get a proper start.

 

So, officially, that's the fallout of that match. Unofficially – I don't know when this book will be published, if ever. But when it comes out, Billy, Randall – I want you to understand that the men who ended up taking your place were meant to be long-term rivals, not replacements who forced you down the card or all the way out, until you did so much worse without being helped than I had expected.

 

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/One-Offs/HarryAllen.jpghttp://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/One-Offs/SteveGumble.jpghttp://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/DonnieJ.jpghttp://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/TCW/JamesPrudence.jpg

The Young Guns battle the Fly Boys for the old Cruiserweight Tag Championships at Hotter Than Hell 2002. In 2005 the Young Guns would be played down and the Fly Boys would be cut from the company. In 2008, both teams outperformed Painful Procedure, who'd been major players throughout

 

In very real terms, Painful Procedure were, when I started, the fourth team on the roster. Unlikely to take the titles, but likely to stay strong, put up a good challenge. Now, with the Young Guns stepping up as I'd hoped they might once they were shot of their old gimmick, with the Fly Boys back on the roster, and a number of feasible tryout teams around – they're not as important. And I have other teams in development. Number four team has to be able to help people to a better match than they were capable of, and I think that means we're looking at replacements rather than an augmentation.

 

That is, of course, if those men can do what I think they can do.

 

I call Cliff, and I call them up early.