WWF 1998: What if Bret had Stayed?

[tristram]

I'm a fan of Sasuke aswell and would have loved to give him the belt, but I have plans for Lynn at the moment and decided he could use the belt to help out his momentum and popularity. Sasuke will get his time to shine at some stage.

 

And I personally respect that mode of booking. Sometimes with some RW diaries I sense there's a desperation to do something spectacular and do it at the expense of long term logics. Jerry Lynn for the record is a phenomenal worker so you lose nothing with the belt on him at any rate.

[tristram]

Light Heavyweight Title Match

Jerry Lynn © vs. Great Sasuke - Sasuke gets closer...

 

Roaddog vs. British Bulldog - a win back for NAO

 

Kane vs. Flash Funk

 

In ring return for Lawler

Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler vs. Savio Vega - Lawler proves himself to Jarrett

 

No.1 Contender to the Intercontinental Title Tournament Semi Final

Vader vs. ‘The leader of the Nation’ Farooq - I'm officially rioting if Vader doesn't win the IC Title

 

Main Event

Owen Hart and Mankind vs. Triple H and ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels - I kinda feel it would be more fitting for OH and MK to go over. Perhaps you have Triple H and Michaels dominate, a few cheap tricks but Owen in particular just will not give up. Then a flinch of momentum, bang, they get a quick roll up or something.

[mistaken]

Light Heavyweight Title Match

Jerry Lynn © vs. Great Sasuke

 

Roaddog vs. British Bulldog

 

Kane vs. Flash Funk

 

In ring return for Lawler

Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler vs. Savio Vega

 

No.1 Contender to the Intercontinental Title Tournament Semi Final

Vader vs. ‘The leader of the Nation’ Farooq

 

Main Event

Owen Hart and Mankind vs. Triple H and ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels

[totti]

WWF Raw is War

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/6358/rawiswarlogobq0.jpg

 

 

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8448/jimrossdm5.jpghttp://img529.imageshack.us/img529/5528/jimcornetteaf0.jpg

 

 

Ross: Hello folks and Welcome to another edition of Raw is War. I’m Jim Ross and joining me is Jim Cornette and with Unforgiven just one week away expect plenty of turmoil this show.

 

Cornette: The main event looks set to explode JR. I can’t see how the referee will be able to keep order with Owen and Triple H in the same match.

 

Ross: Owen won’t be drawn in by Triple H, we saw that last week. He’ll wait until the time is right at In Your House. You have to think that Triple H and Shawn Michaels will have a slight advantage in that match having worked alongside side each other in DX.

 

Cornette: Certainly. I don’t believe Owen and Mankind will be able to co exist and the momentum will play straight into DX’s hands.

 

Ross: Obviously the main event is big, but we also have the second semi final of Intercontinental Title tournament for a shot at the Champion Austin. We already know that Shamrock is in the final, but who’ll be joining him.

 

Cornette: My moneys on Farooq. He’s not only a brilliant wrestler, but he now has an alliance with Mr. McMahon who lets face it can get him anything he wants.

 

Ross: First up though folks we have some Light Heavyweight action as Lynn defends his newly won gold against the man he didn’t pin last week, Great Sasuke.

 

Cornette: These guys were entertaining last week so let’s just hope for more of the same.

 

 

Light Heavyweight Title

Jerry Lynn © vs. Great Sasuke

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/276/jerrylynnkd2.jpgvs.http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8465/greatsasukeqs4.jpg

 

Jerry Lynn’s popularity seems to be growing after his title win last week as more people cheer his entrance and there are a few Lynn signs in the crowd. The match starts very quickly with some brilliant hold/counter hold wrestling which ends with the men on either side of the ring looking at each other impressed as the crowd starts to cheer, clearly enjoying the fast paced action. The two lock up again with Sasuke gaining the advantage with a side headlock. Lynn shows his strength lifting up Sasuke by the legs and suplexing him onto the mat. He then puts an armbar onto Sasuke, but he quickly breaks the hold with some nasty boots to the face. Sasuke mounts the top rope and is able to hit a moonsault on Lynn as he stands. Unfortunately he didn’t land properly after the moonsault and is unable to make the cover on the champ. Lynn is up first and works Sasuke with a number of power moves. He starts to feel it and signals for the cradle piledriver, but Sasuke rolls through, 1.2. Lynn turns Sasuke’s shoulder onto the mat, 1.2. Again a counter by Sasuke, 1.2. Sasuke is up first, but out of nowhere is met by a sickening Enzuigiri by Lynn. Sasuke could be out cold here. Cover, 1.2.3.

 

Winner and still Light Heavyweight Champion, Jerry Lynn.

Match Rating: D-

 

 

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpghttp://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpg

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/570/jessejames1998dc9.jpghttp://img175.imageshack.us/img175/8372/billygunn19982gk3.jpghttp://i29.tinypic.com/wbq592.jpg

We are joined in the ring by the whole of DX.

 

Triple H: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Raw is Degeneration X!

 

The crowd begin to boo.

 

Triple H: First of all, you get to see a very fine wrestler in action, Roaddog. Give it up for Roaddog

 

The crowd continue booing as Roaddog steps forward.

 

Triple H: Then in the main event tonight you better lock up your daughters because you know who is on prowl. ‘Heartbreak kid’ and your Champion Shawn Michaels! Give it up for Shawn.

 

Shawn steps forward with the belt taunting the crowd. Hes met with the same reaction as Roaddog.

 

Triple H: Now let’s move onto the serious matters at hand. Owen.

 

The crowd cheer at the mention of his name.

 

Triple H: Owen, last week you didn’t fool anyone. When you were at ringside and I was beating up your friend black and blue in the ring I knew it was eating you up in side. Let’s take a look, Owen, I hope your watching.

 

Triple H shows the video of him pedigreeing Jim Niedhart hard onto the mat.

 

Triple H: Bam! That had too hurt Owen and you just sat there and did nothing. What will you do at In Your house when I do the same thing to you? If you think you can kick out of the pedigree then you’re kidding yourself Owen. I’ve shown before that I can get into your head. I had every intention of facing you at In Your House I just wanted to see your reaction when I said I wouldn’t. Frustrating you has been fun, but at In Your House its time for the real action to start. I can assure you, I’ll be the one walking out of the pay per view the winner.

 

He passes the microphone to Shawn Michaels.

 

Michaels: Thanks hunter and I’m looking forward to seeing you kick that little runt’s ass aswell. Now for you, Mankind. This is my third reign as champion; I’ve won the Royal Rumble twice for god’s sake. You haven’t got a patch on the Heartbreak Kid. You’ve been here how long? Nearly Two years yeah and what have you won in that time. Nothing! Mankind, I’ve told you once and I’ve told you a 1000 times you can’t take this Title from me. At In Your House I’ll still be the Heartbreak Kid, The Showstopper, but most importantly I’ll still be the World Heavyweight Champion!

 

Triple H: So there ya go. I wouldn’t bother turning up if I was either of ya, but that’s up to you.

 

He gets ready to leave, but Michaels stops him.

 

Michaels: Aren’t you forgetting something Hunter?

 

Triple H: Oh yeah.

 

Michaels and Triple H: Suck it!

 

With that DX leave to the back.

 

 

Ross: Two very arrogant young men there.

 

Cornette: When you’re that damn good JR it doesn’t hurt to mention it once in a while.

 

 

Roaddog vs. British Bulldog

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/570/jessejames1998dc9.jpgvs.http://i27.tinypic.com/1zmkuhl.jpg

 

Winner: British Bulldog

Match Rating: C-

 

Bulldog looks very strong here, but he seems to be waiting for the inevitable interference from Billy Gunn. Surprisingly it doesn’t happen and Bulldog is able to take control and finish off Roaddog.

 

 

Ross: That’s a win over both tag team champs now for Bulldog. He is on fire.

 

Cornette: Maybe he is, but he still has to partner the weak link in Niedhart. What’s stopping the Outlaws from just targeting him?

 

Ross: Niedhart is a tag team specialist, hes definitely not the weak link of this team. Oh looks like Bulldog is ready to talk.

 

 

Bulldog: Outlaws, I’ve beaten you both now. Neither of you put up much of a challenge and with The Anvil added to the mix you don’t stand a chance. Those Championships are coming home with The Hart Foundation.

 

 

We cut backstage where Bret and Owen Hart are talking in their locker room.

 

 

Owen: I can’t keep it up much longer brother.

 

Bret: Don’t do anything stupid in the match tonight Owen. Don’t think of it as wrestling Triple H. Just think of him as any other opponent. A set back in that match for Triple H and he won’t be brimming with confidence anymore.

 

Owen: You’re right Bret. I have to my save my anger for In Your House.

 

Bret: Yep.

 

Owen: That’s when I’ll prove myself.

 

Bret: And you know what’s after In Your House don’t you? The Rumble. I’ll do everything that I can to help you win that match brother. You deserve your chance.

 

Owen: Thanks bro, but to be honest I’d rather beat the hell out of Hunter than win the Royal Rumble.

 

Bret: Don't worry Owen, you can do both.

 

 

Kane w. Paul Bearer vs. Flash Funk

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpgvs. http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/3612/2coldscorpious6.jpg

 

Another easy victory for Kane as he hits a devastating chokeslam on Funk getting some great elevation.

 

Winner: Kane

Match Rating: C

 

 

No Chance!

 

Cornette: All hail to the boss.

 

 

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/9440/vincemcmahonea6.jpg

McMahon comes to the ring alone.

 

Vince: I said they’d be consequences Austin god dammit there is. You think you can lay your hands on the owner of this company without being punished? Think again Austin. I am hereby stripping you of your Intercontinental Title and aslong as I’m the owner of this company you’ll never receive a world title shot.

 

 

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/5897/sgtslaughteryf3.jpg

The WWF Commissioners music hits and he stands on the ramp mic in hand.

 

Slaughter: Whoa McMahon. As commissioner this is my show to run, I’ll see you down the middle there. I’ll allow the stripping of Austin’s title, but you’re not deciding whether Austin can or can’t go for the World Title. That decision is with me.

 

Vince: Dammit Slaughter. I’ve let you deal with DX now let me deal with Austin.

 

Slaughter: Survivor Series Vince. You helped screw Bret out of the title effectively gifting it to DX. You interfered with DX there.

 

Vince: (clearly annoyed) Fine Austin is allowed to go for the title, but I’m putting him in a match at In Your House.

 

Slaughter: Who do you have in mind?

 

The arena goes dark and familiar music hits.

 

Vince: Kane!

 

 

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpg

Kane joins McMahon in the ring.

 

 

Vince: At In Your House this man is going to destroy Austin. Look at him. 7ft tall 320 pounds. Austin can’t compete with that. He’ll see it my way after Kane’s finished with him.

 

 

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

Austin makes his inevitable appearance coming out with the belt.

 

Austin: You’re stripping me of this piece of trash. Hell I’d have given it you if you’d asked. Why would Stone Cold care about a midcard belt? I haven’t even been carting it around with me; it’s been in the locker room. I don’t care for titles at the minute. All I care for is unleashing hell and whooping ass. I don’t like you Vince I’ll stop at nothing to get you off my back. You can put in matches against who you damn well please, the result will always be the same. Kane, get ready for an ass whooping like you ain’t never seen. That’s the bottom line cos stone cold said so.

 

He throws down the Intercontinental Title and goes off into the back feeling hes made his mark. Vince and Kane head to the back along with Slaughter not long after.

 

 

Cornette How disrespectful is Austin? Calling the belt trash and then throwing it down.

 

Ross: He’s making a point; he wants revenge on McMahon and doesn’t care about titles.

 

Cornette: How huge is a Kane/Austin match though. I don’t think McMahon could have picked a better opponent for Austin.

 

Ross: It will be interesting affair that’s for sure.

 

 

Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler vs. Savio Vega

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/6050/jerrylawlerfd0.jpgvs. http://i28.tinypic.com/687u3d.jpg

 

Lawler turns back the years here giving Jarrett something to worry about. He beats Vega hitting the Piledriver.

 

Winner: Jerry Lawler

Match Rating: D-

 

 

Lawler: You see that Jarrett, that is real wrestling. Don’t think that’s what you’re getting at In Your House though. You’re getting a side Jerry Lawler that nobody has ever seen before. A very brutal side. I’m ready to dish out the punishment at In Your House Jarrett the question is are you ready to take it?

 

 

http://i31.tinypic.com/34e6g0k.jpg

Jarrett’s music hits and he stands on the ramp with a mic

 

 

Jarrett: You think I’m impressed by that. Well done on beating Savio freaking Vega. It’s going to be a lot different when you face me. In fact how about a little preview tonight.

 

Jarrett storms down to the ring and Lawler tells him to bring it. The fans cheer in anticipation of the two getting it on. Jarrett slides in the ring, but is immediately attacked by Lawler who wastes little time. He unloads with a barrage of lefts and rights, but Jarrett hits back with a thumb to the eye to gain the upper hand. He then starts to enjoy himself throwing punches at Lawler talking trash to him all the time. Lawler looks done and out, but he takes a leaf out of Jarrett’s tactics book and hits him with a hard low blow. Jarrett manages to roll out of the ring before Lawler can take advantage. He heads for the back with Lawler willing him to get back in the ring.

 

 

Ross: Lawler’s ready. Why isn’t your man coming back to fight.

 

Cornette: Hey he gave Lawler some shots there, but you saw Lawler had to cheat to gain the upper hand.

 

 

No.1 Contender to the Intercontinental Title Tournament Semi Final

Vader vs. ‘The Leader of the Nation’ Farooq

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7609/vaderhf5.jpgvs.http://i28.tinypic.com/2jdl7km.jpg

 

 

Vader looks strong here dominating Farooq for best parts of the match, but Farooqs constant cheating proves to be the decider as he pins Vader using his feet on the rope for leverage.

 

Winner: Farooq (Sorry Tristram! Vader does have other plans though.)

Match Rating: C

 

 

Farooq: At In Your House Shamrock, you will fall to the wrath of The Nation of Domination. You’re on your own Ken and in this business you need people looking out for you. I’ll give you that you’re a pretty tough S.O.B, but not as tough as me. The Intercontinental is coming to The Nation.

 

 

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/8081/kenshamrockxt7.jpg

Ken Shamrock runs in from the back.

 

 

He quickly enters the ring ducking under a Farooq clothesline attempt. Farooq is clearly taken by surprise at the speed Shamrock hit the ring and is met by a big clothesline by. Shamrock locks in the ankle lock and starts to twist and turn it looking to gain an advantage. Farooq starts tapping out, but Ross quickly alludes to the fact that that isn’t going to get him anywhere tonight as Shamrock will not relinquish the hold.

 

 

http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/7555/kamazy1.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qn9rw6.jpg

Kama and D’lo rush in from the back looking to help out their leader.

 

 

Shamrock quickly reacts taking off the hold and ducking under a D’lo clothesline. He gives Kama a kick to the gut before going back after D’lo. With Shamrock busy with Farooq’s two lackeys Farooq has chance to recover and slides out of the ring. Shamrock nails both Kama and D’lo with over the top ropes and starts to play up to the crowd. Bad move. Farooq re enters the ring this time with a steel chair and smashes it over Shamrock’s back. D’lo and Kama recover and a 3 – 1 beat down commences.

 

Ross: Somebody stop this. Shamrock will be in no fit state to wrestling.

 

 

The Nation decide to leave feeling their point has been made.

 

 

Cornette: I’m not gonna argue with the toughness of Shamrock, but as we’ve seen tonight even he can’t take on The Nation.

 

Ross: You ready for this one Cornette? It’s time for the main event.

 

Cornette: Oh yeah.

 

 

Main Event

WWF Champion Shawn Michaels and Triple H vs. Mankind and Owen Hart

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpghttp://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpgvs. http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpghttp://img162.imageshack.us/img162/2623/owenhartwa7.jpg

 

The match starts slowly with Mankind and Michaels not wanting to make a wrong move. Both men have equal offence before their tag in their partners and the crowd pop at the prospect of Owen and Triple H getting it on. Owen begins to outwrestle Triple H which puts a smile on his face. Triple H decides to tag in Michaels which is met by booing from the crowd. Michaels and Owen put on a great show for the crowd, but Michaels gains the upper hand and he starts to wear Owen down tagging frequently with his partner. Triple H taunts Owen while he beats him. He doesn’t seem to bother with wrestling moves as his punches seem to be doing the trick, he constantly attempts closed fists when the refs not looking. He moves Owen into the middle of the ring and signals for a pedigree. No! Big back body drop from Owen, but hes down. Can he make the tag? He got it! Mankind enters the ring taking on all comers. He knocks Michaels out of the ring leaving the legal man in. he then tags Owen in and starts brawling with Michaels on the outside. Owen quickly seizes his chance with Triples H down and puts on the sharpshooter. Triple H tries his best to fight it, stretching out for the ropes, but Owen has him in the middle of the ring. He decides the best option is to tap.

 

Winners: Mankind and Owen Hart

Match Rating: B

 

 

Ross: Bah Gawd! Owen just made Triple H tap!

 

Lawler: That wasn’t fair. Triple H couldn’t make a tag to Michaels.

 

 

After the match Mankind re-enters the ring to celebrate with Owen. Michaels hurriedly comes looks to get to the back, but as he comes onto the ramp a familiar face is standing at the top.

 

 

http://i29.tinypic.com/vfk2gp.jpg

 

 

Michaels is left staring at his challenger at In Your House and perhaps his biggest enemy at the moment.

 

 

Ross: I can’t believe that’s all we have time for. Join us in six days time for In Your House. It promises to be huge.

 

Cornette: How’s Michaels gonna get out of here JR? He’s basically trapped.

 

 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Raw Rating: B

Nitro Rating: C+

 

Raw TV Rating: 4.24

Nitro TV Rating: 6.49

[totti]

WWF In Your House: Degeneration X Preview

 

http://i31.tinypic.com/dxnuzb.jpg

 

 

Ladder match for the Light Heavyweight Championship

Jerry Lynn © vs. Great Sasuke vs. Heavy Metal

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/276/jerrylynnkd2.jpgvs.http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8465/greatsasukeqs4.jpgvs.http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/6286/heavymetalfg7.jpg

 

The Light Heavyweight division was only introduced two weeks ago, but already it is becoming a vital part of WWF programming. This match was made by Slaughter earlier today and is a rematch with a twist. These guys are given the chance to prove that a Light Heavyweight division can thrive in the WWF in a ladder match. Expect plenty of high flying action from this one.

 

World Tag Team Championships

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/8372/billygunn19982gk3.jpghttp://img80.imageshack.us/img80/570/jessejames1998dc9.jpgvs.http://i27.tinypic.com/1zmkuhl.jpghttp://i31.tinypic.com/125pbox.jpg

 

The New Hart Foundation won the right to face the Champions and in recent weeks their momentum has just kept growing. British Bulldog looks unstoppable and holds victories over both members of the New Age Outlaws. The Outlaws are obviously Tag Team Champions for a reason and are sure to have made plans with Degeneration X to stop The New Hart Foundation as the group look to retain these titles.

 

Hardcore Match

Jeff Jarrett vs. Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler

http://i31.tinypic.com/34e6g0k.jpgvs.http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/6050/jerrylawlerfd0.jpg

 

Four weeks ago Jeff Jarrett claimed he has been held back in the WWF and expected to be Main Eventing shows. He wanted to rid the WWF of the ‘has beens’ and make way for the future. He attacked Jerry Lawler at ringside sending him to the hospital. Since then Lawler has been everything in his power to claim his revenge on Jarrett and certainly holds the upper hand after numerous attacks on the self proclaimed future of the company. Lawler has twice interfered to cost Jarrett main event wins against the likes of Mankind and Bret Hart on Raw which infuriated Jarrett. He just wanted a match, but Lawler wanted to turn it into a brawl. This one could get ugly, fast.

 

Intercontinental Championship

‘Leader of The Nation’ Farooq vs. ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/2077/ronsimmonsas9.jpgvs.http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/8081/kenshamrockxt7.jpg

 

A Tournament was held to declare a new No.1 Contender to Stone Colds Intercontinental title with these two coming out on top. On the final Raw before the pay per view McMahon stripped Austin of the title and said the winner of this match would be the new Champion. Farooq. Shamrock is one tough wrestler, but unavoidably he may have to face more men than he thinks tonight as The Nation of Domination are sure to make an appearance. This was shown on Raw as Farooq, D’lo and Kama beat the hell out of Shamrock gaining an advantage for tonight. All it could take though is ten seconds and Farooq could be tapping out.

 

Kane w. Paul Bearer and Vince McMahon vs. ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpgw.http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/899/paulbearerui8.jpghttp://img175.imageshack.us/img175/9440/vincemcmahonea6.jpgvs.http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

 

Four weeks ago Vince invited Austin to the ring telling him he’s have to change his ways if he had any ambition of becoming World Champion. Austin surprised us all for a minute going along with Vince, but soon enough Vince’s smile was wiped from his face as Austin beat the hell out of his boss proving his co-operation was a just a clever rouse to fool Vince. In the weeks that followed momentum has shifted from side to side as Vince has introduced The Nation onto his team, stripped Austin of the Intercontinental title and put him in this match against Kane. Austin on the other hand has just done what he does best: Whooping ass and raising hell. This could be impossible though even for the Rattlesnake as Vince is certain to do all he can to make sure Austin doesn’t win. There’s also Kane who has been on a path of destruction recently dominating his opponents. If there’s one man who can overcome these odds though its Stone Cold.

 

Owen Hart vs. Triple H w. Chyna

http://img162.imageshack.us/img162/2623/owenhartwa7.jpgvs.http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpgw.http://i29.tinypic.com/wbq592.jpg

 

Triple H has been trying to get into the head of Owen for three weeks now and has for the majority of the time, failed. Bret has managed to claim Owen down and in a way made him even more focused on a victory tonight as all the anger Owen has had in the past weeks has been building and building. Triple H is quickly becoming the ‘cerebral assassin’ though and will be prepared for everything Owen has tonight. There is also the question of who is the better wrestler with Owen claiming it is a joke that Triple H thinks he can outwrestle him. We probably won’t be seeing much wrestling though from the two as their only real goals will to inflict as much punishment as possible onto one and other.

 

World Heavyweight Championship

‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels © vs. Mankind

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpgvs.http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpg

 

Mankind won a No.1 contender match against Jarrett albeit with some help from Lawler, but if anybody deserves a title shot its Mankind who has given so much to the sport of professional wrestling. He knows this is a once in a lifetime chance to win the title especially when Michaels mind could be on other things, Bret Hart.

 

 

Quick Picks

 

Ladder match for the Light Heavyweight Championship

Jerry Lynn © vs. Great Sasuke vs. Heavy Metal

 

World Tag Team Championships

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation

 

Hardcore Match

Jeff Jarrett vs. Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler

 

Intercontinental Championship

‘Leader of The Nation’ Farooq vs. ‘the World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock

 

Kane w. Paul Bearer and Vince McMahon vs. ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin

 

Owen Hart vs. Triple H w. Chyna

 

World Heavyweight Championship

‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels © vs. Mankind

 

 

 

This is a stage in the diary where I would love to see what people think will happen. Raw is War doesn't seem to have been two hard to predict so far, but I would like to think this would be harder. Not sure when the show will be up, possibly Thursday, but when it is up I hope you enjoy it.

[tristram]

Ladder match for the Light Heavyweight Championship

Jerry Lynn © vs. Great Sasuke vs. Heavy Metal - I think Sasuke is the man to succeed him, but I still think he needs time to get his US mojo

 

World Tag Team Championships

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation

 

Hardcore Match

Jeff Jarrett vs. Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler

 

Intercontinental Championship

‘Leader of The Nation’ Farooq vs. ‘the World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock

 

Kane w. Paul Bearer and Vince McMahon vs. ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin

 

Owen Hart vs. Triple H w. Chyna

 

World Heavyweight Championship

‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels © vs. Mankind

[totti]

WWF In Your House: Degeneration X

 

http://i31.tinypic.com/dxnuzb.jpg

 

 

Fireworks go off as the cameras cut inside of the arena and the pay per view officially begins.

 

 

Ross: We welcome you to the Fleet Centre here in Boston and folks this is In Your House and what a card we have in store for you tonight.

 

Cornette: I think the only thing I’m psyched for more than the title match tonight is Jarrett stomping all over that aged ass of Lawler tonight in their hardcore match.

 

Ross: Lawler is a legend in this business Cornette and you damn well know that.

 

Cornette: Let me correct you there JR, Lawler WAS a legend in this business, but now the spotlight belongs to Jarrett. You better get back to calling the show anyway.

 

Ross: (Clearly angered) Not only do we have that for you tonight, but we also get to finally see Triple H and Owen Hart in the ring. Owen has built his anger up for weeks and if I was Triple H I’d be worried tonight.

 

Cornette: That’s why you’re not Triple H then because the real Triple H won’t be worried at all; he’ll be as calm as ever backstage and will just be eager to get out here to teach Owen a lesson.

 

Ross: I guess we’ll have to wait and see, but up first we have some Light Heavyweight action as Lynn defends his belt against Great Sasuke and Heavy Metal in a ladder match.

 

Cornette: This one is just going to be crazy. I hope you’ve done you research JR because we’re probably going to see things that we’ve never witnessed before here in the WWF.

 

Ross: Don’t worry about me Cornette; let’s just get on with calling the match.

 

 

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Ladder Match for the WWF Light Heavyweight Title

Jerry Lynn © vs. Great Sasuke vs. Heavy Metal

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/276/jerrylynnkd2.jpgvs.http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8465/greatsasukeqs4.jpgvs.http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/6286/heavymetalfg7.jpg

 

As expected this one starts with a swift, rapid pace as Heavy Metal and Lynn begin wrestling in the ring and Sasuke, wasting little time, slides out and goes straight for a ladder. He enters the ring with his two competitors still going at it and hits champion Lynn square in the head with the ladder. Heavy Metal shows tremendous speed though dropkicking into the ladder forcing it to hit its master. He then sets the ladder up in the centre of the ring and begins to climb hoping for a quick finish. It doesn’t look like that will be the case tonight though as Lynn rises to his feet and climbs the ladder, facing Heavy Metal. The two trade heavy blows on the top with both men teetering, holding on with their non fighting arm for dear life. Sasuke makes the most of this opportunity and pushes the ladder over sending both men over the top rope and down to where the announcers are calling the match.

 

Sasuke has a decision. Does he dish out further punishment or go for the title with both of his competitors down outside the ring? You guessed it, in an effort to get over with the fans he bounces off the ropes at speed and hoists himself over the opposite rope doing an amazing flip and lands a type of frogsplash move onto the outside hitting Lynn.

 

Ross: Bah Gawd! He can’t possibly get up from that! I ain’t ever seen anything quite like that move from Sasuke.

 

Cornette: He’s down and out here; he may need some medical attention.

 

The fans begin a ‘holy ****!’ chant.

 

Heavy Metal unsurprisingly is the first one to his feet. He sees both men are down and out at ringside and unlike Sasuke decides to go for the gold. With a ladder already in the ring from earlier he sets it up in the centre and begins his climb.

 

Cornette: He’s gonna get it JR. There ain’t anyone to stop him.

 

He continues to climb and reaches out for the belt, but can’t get reach it yet. He takes one more step, but is met by a steel chair shot to the back by Sasuke who somehow has managed to recover after his suicide move moments ago. Heavy Metal immediately falls from the ladder and Sasuke starts to the climb. Heavy Metal isn’t down for long though and climbs up the same side as Sasuke putting his head between Sasuke’s legs in a sort of Powerbomb position. He hits a sit-down Powerbomb from the ladder onto Sasuke.

 

Ross: That’s gotta be it from Sasuke. He may be broken in half!

 

Heavy Metal begins to climb the ladder again, but now Lynn has recovered and makes it into the ring to meet Heavy Metal. They both ascend the ladder on opposite sides striking each other as they climb. As the get to the top Lynn reaches out for his belt, but Heavy Metal gives him a punch to the guy. Heavy Metal tries to do the same, but he is met by the same move from Lynn. Eventually Lynn knocks Metal from the ladder with a huge right hand, but instead of going straight for the belt he quickly joins him in the ring. Cradle Piledriver from Lynn! Both men are down and Lynn is climbing the ladder. He reaches out for the gold as the crowd are willing him on. That’s it, he has the belt.

 

Winner and still WWF Light Heavyweight Champion, Jerry Lynn

Match Rating: C-

 

 

Ross: What an opening match to the pay per view. I’m speechless.

 

Cornette: Did you see some of those hits that Sasuke took in that match.

 

 

Speaking of Sasuke he arises to his feet to a good ovation from the crowd for his efforts in the match. They are very grateful for him putting his body on the line to gratify them than going for the belt. He staggers out of the ring soaking up every second of the crowd’s response.

 

 

Ross: I don’t know how that man is standing, but his efforts tonight were certainly appreciated from the crowd.

 

Cornette: Rightly so. Although he was a little bit stupid when he probably could have had the belt it was definitely an entertaining move.

 

Ross: Oh definitely Cornette. Sensational athleticism displayed from the man from the Far East.

 

 

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The Jackal comes down to the ring accompanied by two striking figures. The atmosphere has become chilling and has a sort of Undertaker feel about it as they continue to walk down to the ring. The crowd don’t really know what to expect.

 

 

The Jackal: Today marks a new dark era in the WWF as my two men here Vampiro and Gangrel are ready to take the tag division by storm and then who knows you could be looking at your next Champion right here.

 

 

Ross: Bold statement there.

 

 

The Jackal: Tune in tomorrow night on Raw to find out more and to witness this very unique team in action. I can guarantee you will not be disappointed. Tomorrow night The Darkside begins.

 

 

Cornette: Those looks like some pretty scary dudes right there.

 

Ross: I guess we’ll be seeing a lot more of them from now on starting tomorrow night on Raw.

 

 

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We head backstage to Kane’s locker room as Vince McMahon enters.

 

Vince: Just thought I’d wish you luck tonight Kane.

 

Kane just stares at Vince

 

Vince: Your gonna beat that son of a b***h for me tonight yeah?

 

Again Kane just stares at Vince.

 

Vince: Err; I’ll take that as a yes then.

 

Vince then extends his hand out to Kane, but again Kane just stares straight at Vince.

 

Vince: No problem, no problem. I know you’ll kick Austin’s ass tonight. Remember what happens when you do yeah?

 

Kane finally moves his head down indicating he knows what McMahon is talking about.

 

Vince then pats Kane on the back which doesn’t go down too well with Kane who pushes Vince halfway across his locker room and then leaves with Vince looking on too scared to say everything to his employee.

 

 

Cornette Kane isn’t scared of a single sole in the WWF; he just lets his actions in the ring do his talking for him.

 

Ross: Next up the Tag Titles are on the line as The Outlaws defend against Bulldog and Niedhart.

 

 

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WWF World Tag Team Titles

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation

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Bulldog and Roaddog start out the match with Bulldog gaining an early advantage due to his powerful game. They both lock up, but Bulldog practically throws Roaddog to the other side of the ring which gets the crowd going aswell as Bulldog who starts fire up taunting Roaddog. He comes running at Bulldog, but is met by a hip toss followed by a big clothesline which takes Roaddog a bit more time to get up from. Bulldog then takes The Outlaw into his corner where he begins to make a few tags with Niedhart isolating him from his partner.

 

Ross: Good game plan here from the challengers. They have the overwhelming power of Bulldog and the tag team specialism of Niedhart. We could see the titles changing hands tonight in my opinion.

 

Cornette: In my opinion JR, the Outlaws will get the job done. They aren’t tag team champs for the hell of it.

 

Roaddog begins to fight back against Niedhart and they are both down in the centre of the ring needing to make a tag. Roaddog reaches out and hits the hand of his partner Billy Gunn who is in the ring for the first time. He immediately enters the ring making sure Niedhart can’t get the tag on Bulldog. He manages to reach out his fingertips and Bulldog is in the match. The crowd pop as Bulldog begins dominating Gunn with big clothesline. Side slam from Bulldog! He then lands a huge punch on Roaddog making sure he can’t interfere. Niedhart goes out to meet Roaddog leaving Bulldog fighting Gunn in the ring. Bulldog puts Gunn in a Powerbomb position and signals hes about to finish him off. The refs back is turned as he tries to deal with the ringside action between Roaddog and Niedhart and Gunn hits Bulldog with a big low blow. He quickly capitalises hitting a Gunslinger on Bulldog and makes the cover. 1.2.3.

 

 

Winners and still the WWF World Tag Team Champions, New Age Outlaws

Match Rating: D

 

 

Ross Bulldog and Niedhart were robbed right there!

 

Cornette: Who cares JR? The only thing that matters is the New Age Outlaws are still out tag team champs and when Michaels retains against Mankind later DX will still hold all their titles.

 

 

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We cut backstage where Degeneration X are getting ready for their respective matches in their locker room. Everybody seems calm and relaxed as The Outlaws are played a game of cards at a table, Triple H is posing in the mirror talking to his roided up ‘guns’ and Shawn Michaels is lounging about watching the TV.

 

Triple H: So what ya think then Chyna? You know what, I think I should enter for Mr. Olympia this year.

 

Michaels: Come check this out guys. The Main Event from Survivor Series just happens to be on the telly. Whoa check that out Bret is tapping to my brutal sharpshooter hold. Is that not the best submission manoeuvre you’ve ever seen right there? What do you think to me finishing off Mankind like that tonight?

 

Triple H: Ha-ha Shawn, wonder how that’s found its way onto the screen. Pretty brilliant wrestling display if I do say so though. What do you think? Mr Olympia this year?

 

Michaels: You’d be a shoe-in to win it Hunter. Don’t show too much of that to Owen tonight though, it could get messy if you know what I mean.

 

Michaels begins to talk to the camera now.

 

Michaels: You’ve just witnessed how Degeneration X have been training this past weeks getting ready for our matches. That is how easily we know we’re gonna win. Hey I’m not saying you guys don’t have the slightest chance, but it’s going to take some kind of miracle for DX not to be walking out of here with three victories tonight.

 

Degeneration X: Suck It!

 

 

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Ross: This one is going to be brutal folks so if you’re of a nervous disposition I’d suggest this time for a toilet break. God knows what Lawler is going to do to Jarrett tonight.

 

Cornette: I can’t answer that, but I know exactly what Jarrett will do to Lawler. Kick his ass, that’s what.

 

 

A video shows on the titantron showing the recent feud between Jerry Lawler and Jeff Jarrett.

 

 

Hardcore Match

Jeff Jarrett vs. Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler

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Jarrett enters first carrying a baseball ball to the ring and receiving some good heat from the sell out crowd. Lawler also comes down, dressed in wrestling pants and a t-shirt, carrying a weapon. He wields a lead pipe and looks very serious and focused tonight. He doesn’t stop on his way down to interact with the crowd; he just marches straight into the ring. As he enters Jarrett runs at him with his bat swinging it left, right and centre, but Lawler has him scouted and manages to deceive his many shots. He drops his pipe in the process and lands a right hand on Jarrett who in turn drops his bat.

 

Ross: No messing around here from these two and nor did we think they would be. Their off beating the hell out of each other before the bell has even sounded.

 

Lawler quickly gains an advantage with some brutal punches to Jarrett which cuts open the lip of Jarrett like last week. He then picks up his pipe and smashes onto Jarrett’s back a few times which has the self proclaimed ‘future’ writhing around in pain. Lawler looks to have the upper hand and don’t count on him making any mistakes here. He drags Jarrett outside the ring and slams him straight onto the ramp further punishing the back. Lawler drags Jarrett back near the ring and positions his ankle onto the steel steps and goes to collect a chair from near the announces. Lawler flattens Jarrett’s ankle with the chair and may have broken it right there, but Lawler showing no remorse at all goes straight back to the work on Jarrett not wanting to make a cover yet.

 

Ross: Lawler is teaching Jarrett a lesson right here.

 

Out of nowhere Jarrett connects with a DDT onto the outside, but hes taken too much punishment to capitalise and both men are down. Jarrett is first to his feet clearing feeling the effects of the match so far as the foot Lawler was working earlier is struggling to hold his weight. He picks up the baseball ball and scouts Lawler waiting for him to rise. When he finally does Jarrett powers the bat straight into his head sending him down to the mat once again.

 

Ross: Bah Gawd! Lawler is cut open.

 

Cornette: The match is Jarrett’s from here on.

 

Jarrett covers. 1…2… No! Lawler is able to kick out, but not very convincingly as Jarrett looks to take control of the match now wanting to put it to bed whenever he gets the chance. He gives Lawler a few kicks to the face to make sure hes still down before taking a look under the ring to see what sort of weapon he can use to divulge some pain onto Lawler. He picks up a table and slides it into the ring along with two trash cans. He re-enters the ring, still limping from Lawler’s attack earlier, and sets up the table in the corner of the ring. He then sees Lawler has risen to his feet so Jarrett picks up the trash can and levels his foe round the head further deepening the cuts on Lawler forehead. Another cover from Jarrett. 1…2…… Kick out Lawler again, hes showing brilliant resolve here not wanting to give up.

 

He picks Lawler up and slams him through the table he set up earlier and then goes back on the outside looking to cause even more carnage to the wrestling legend. After another rummage under the ring he finds a bag under the ring which causes confusion in the crowd as they wonder what Jarrett could have in the bag. He empties to bag on the ring floor to the astonishment of the everybody in the arena.

 

Ross: Oh my god! Jarrett has just poured shards of glass everywhere. Somebody stop this.

 

Jarrett looks at Lawler and then at the glass lying in the centre of the ring and for a moment it seems as though Jarrett is having second thoughts, but it turns out he isn’t. He picks up a chair and positions Lawler where he wants him to be waiting for his to get to his feet. He warps the steel chair around Lawler’s bloody skull and he falls backwards onto the shards of glass. He begins to writhe around in agony as Jarrett hooks the leg. 1…2…3.

 

Winner: Jeff Jarrett

Match Rating: C+

 

 

Ross: Will we ever see the King again after tonight!!??

 

Cornette: Doesn’t bother me in the slightest JR. Take a look at this; Jarrett wants to get rid of him for good.

 

 

Indeed, with the match won Jarrett doesn’t see that as a reason to stop his brutal assault of Lawler and continues with closed fists straight into the cuts of the wrestling legend. Wait! Light Heavyweight Champion Jerry Lynn comes running from the back and slides into the ring to meet Jarrett. Jarrett swings a baseball bat, but Lynn ducks it and unloads with a left and right combo. Jarrett quickly slides out of the ring wanting nothing to do with Lynn tonight. Lynn goes over to Lawler to help him up and indicates to the back that their going to need to bring a stretcher out for the fallen legend.

 

 

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We head into the Hart Foundation camp to see how they are preparing for tonight and it is a complete contrast as to what we witnessed from DX. Bret is massaging Owen’s back while Owen just stares forward looking very serious. The camera crew ask for a chance to speak to Owen, but Bret ushers them away telling them that Owen needs to prepare for his match and can’t be having distractions.

 

 

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Intercontinental Championship

‘Leader of The Nation’ Farooq vs. ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/2077/ronsimmonsas9.jpgvs.http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/8081/kenshamrockxt7.jpg

 

Farooq comes down to the ring first accompanied by his two henchmen Kama and D’lo which proves that Shamrock will have to be at his best tonight if he wants to walk out of here the Intercontinental Champion. His music hits and he receives and good pop from the crowd, but even ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ seems worried as he looks over the Kama and D’lo at ringside.

 

The two get underway with Farooq lucking to power his way to the title, but Shamrock is very strong aswell and matches him strength wise in the early going which frustrates The Leader of the Nation and its this frustration that gives Shamrock an early advantage as he hits a huge belly to belly throw and then shoots out to the crowd and they respond with another good pop. Shamrock went on to dominate proceedings for a little longer, but at last D’lo and Kama made their appearance at ringside known when Shamrock climbed the top rope. D’lo sneakily pushed him off without the ref knowing and Farooq took the advantage looking to wear down Shamrock with a few submissions and some power moves.

 

He looked to be going for a Powerbomb, but it was countered into a body drop from Shamrock who started to feed off the crowd’s noise and locked in the ankle lock onto Farooq. He tried to fight it aslong as possible, but the pain was too much and he began to tap. No wait. Kama and D’lo have the ref distracted. This enrages Shamrock and he immediately lets go of the hold and goes outside the ring to meet both Kama and D’lo. He punches D’lo and then ducks a punch from Kama and lands one of his own. He then re-enters the ring locking back in the ankle lock to which Farooq taps again with the only difference this time being that the ref is on hand to declare Shamrock the winner.

 

Winner and new Intercontinental Champion, Ken Shamrock

Match Rating: B-

 

 

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Mankind is shown backstage in the local boiler room ready to speak.

 

Mankind: Everything I have been working for comes to a finale tonight when this sorry excuse for a human takes on Shawn Michaels for the Championship. That’s what you think of me, you believe I’m different. What sane man would dress up like this every week? Who would pull their own hair out for enjoyment? Who do you know that takes pleasure in pain so much that when he gets home from being beaten down in a wrestling ring all night constantly looks for more to satisfy his need? And who do you know that is going to go to new limits tonight to claim his first ever singles title here in the World Wrestling Federation? Me! I can remember back in Pre School when little Jimmy Hightower stole some of my sweets and I just sat there and let him do it. A few years later that same boy pushed me down in the playground and again I took it. Tonight Shawn you’re unlucky because I feel like extracting my revenge on that boy and with you the only person I’m fighting I’d be worried. I’ve been taken advantage of my whole life, but not tonight.

 

He pauses to pull out some of his own hair.

 

Mankind: Tonight Shawn your little Jimmy Hightower and tonight I’m walking out of here the WWF Champion.

 

 

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A video plays hyping up the up-and-coming match between Kane and Steve Austin. It shows Kane recent path of destruction aswell as the McMahon/Austin saga of the past month.

 

‘The Big Red Monster’ Kane w. Paul Bearer and Vince McMahon vs. ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpgw.http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/899/paulbearerui8.jpghttp://img175.imageshack.us/img175/9440/vincemcmahonea6.jpgvs.http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

 

Kane comes to the ring setting the ring ropes on fire for a few seconds which causes the audience to gasp. He is accompanied by both Bearer and McMahon which looks like Austin could face a tough challenge tonight. The crowd wait in anticipation of Austin entrance and when the glass shatters they go crazy. He enters the ring and Kane, Bearer and McMahon decide to go onto the outside as he ascends the turnbuckle giving his signature poses. Kane enters the ring ready for the match and Austin gets right up his face talking trash, but Kane seems unfazed and just looks down on Austin. The ref separates the two ready to sounds the bell

 

Ross: We’re off folks and this one is going to be a brawl. If Kane hits the tombstone this one could be over and he needs to watch for the interference outside. Hey what’s going on here?

 

Vince McMahon joins Cornette and Ross at the announcers table to Ross’ disgust.

 

Ross: What the hell do you want?

 

Vince: I’m calling this match with you and if you want to keep your job you better start talking to me like I’m your boss.

 

Cornette: Personally Vince it’s an absolute pleasure to be joined by you. Let’s hope Kane can kick Austin’s ass tonight then eh?

 

Vince: We don’t need to hope Cornette; this will be Austin’s final night with the WWF after Kane has finished with him. He won’t want to come back after this beating.

 

The bell sounds and the match is officially underway as Kane goes straight for Austin, but he moves out of the way and lands a big right hand on Kane, but it doesn’t seem to have any effect so Austin throws a few quick punches at Kane followed by a few quick kicks to unsettle the monster. Kane tries to throw a fist at Austin, but again he ducks and hits a snap suplex on the Kane followed by a few elbows into the chest. Austin then lands a few more punches into Kane’s face before raising his hands to the crowd.

 

Vince: Come on Kane. What the hell do you think your doing!?

 

Austin comes back to Kane, but is met with a huge right hand which causes Austin to fall backwards onto the mat. Kane follows this up with a big side slam beginning to slowly wear down Austin as McMahon begins to get a sick smile across his face. After some more Kane domination he whips Austin into the ropes, but the ref is in the way causing the two to collide which knocks the ref out cold. McMahons smile begins to grow as he realises this is the moment they can put Austin away. He gets up from his seat at the announce table and throws a steel chair into the ring for Kane.

 

Ross: Not like this. This is a normal wrestling match.

 

Cornette: The refs down JR, this is smart tactics from the Kane camp.

 

Kane picks up the chair and waits for Austin to get to his feet. He levels Austin straight round the head with the chair which cuts Austin open and McMahon decides to get into the ring. He picks up the chair and starts repeatedly wrapping around Austin’s mid section area. While McMahon does this Kane makes sure the ref isn’t getting up anytime soon giving him some boots. Kane then hoists Austin up for a huge chokeslam, but still doesn’t make a cover. McMahon then tells Kane to hold Austin as he wants to extract some more punishment. He takes some brass knuckles out of his pocket and fastens them to his hand as the crowds booing becomes louder and louder.

 

Ross: Hes going to knock Austin out cold. Get up ref! Get up!

 

Cornette: Its time for McMahon's revenge and there’s nothing Austin can do about it.

 

McMahon runs at Austin, but he manages to duck out of Kane’s hold and McMahon levels Kane around the head knocking him out. McMahon just stares at Kane looking very scared as Austin is still down after all the punishment hes taken.

 

Ross: Yes! Yes! Yes! You better get running Vince.

 

McMahon carries on staring at Kane, but finally moves his attention to the lifeless Austin and picks up the chair again ready to smash it around Austin back again. Austin manages to counter which receives a big pop from the crowd. He uses his feet to tangle up McMahons feet which cause’s him to fall down. Austin now has McMahon in his pocket and rises to his feet, his face a crimson mask, ready to punish his boss. McMahon cowers in the corner pleading with Austin to spare him, but secretly McMahon knows this is no good. He looks ready to stomp a mudhole into Vince, but Kane is now on his feet without Austin knowing. The crowd try to warn him, but he just wants to punish Vince.

 

Ross: Turn round Austin!

 

Austin turns around, but is met by a huge chair shot from Kane. McMahon gets up quickly and starts to shake the ref who finally wakes up and begins a slow count. 1…2….. Austin kicks out! Kane and McMahon, who is now out of the ring, can’t believe it. McMahon shouts at Kane to seal Austin’s fate with a chokeslam. Kane signals for it and waits for Austin to rise. As he does Kane grabs the neck, but Austin manages to break it with a few elbows. Stunner! Out of nowhere!! But Austin can’t make the cover. At last he manages to drape an arm over Kane. 1…2… Kane kicks out to the relief of McMahon at ringside. Austin pulls Kane to his feet, but McMahon senses that the end could be near for Kane and pulls the ref towards him allowing Kane to hit Austin with a low blow. He lets go of the ref and Kane hoists Austin onto his shoulder. Tombstone! Kane covers. 1…2…3.

 

Winner: Kane

Match Rating: B+

 

McMahon leads Kane to the back along with Bearer who didn’t make too much of an appearance all match to the back looking very satisfied as Austin just stares at McMahon in the ring indicating that this is not over.

 

 

Ross: That son of a b***h screws Austin out of the win.

 

Cornette: It doesn’t matter how Kane won it JR the fact is that he did and he is on one hell of a roll recently.

 

Ross: McMahon knows this isn’t over. Anyway let’s head backstage where I think Michael Cole has a special guest.

 

 

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Cole: Joining me now backstage is none other than The WWF Champion ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels.

 

 

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The crowd boo as Michaels appears on screen, grinning.

 

Cole: Shawn, tonight you’re in the main event putting your gold on the line against Mankind? Are you not at all worried that your reign could come to an end?

 

Michaels: I’m gonna ignore that last bit, because I know you don’t believe The Heartbreak kid will be losing the belt tonight. You ask if I’m worried. Do I look worried?

 

Cole: Err, not really.

 

Michaels: There ya go then Michael Cole. What do I have to be worried about? Mankind? That big overweight freak can’t keep up with The Showstopper and tonight he receives the honour of being the first notch in Shawn Michael’s title reign, the first of many I might add. And after all this is done and I haven’t even broken sweat you better lock up your daughters because The Heartbreak Kid will be up all night!

 

 

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Owen Hart vs. Triple H w. Chyna

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Triple H is the first to come out looking incredibly calm and seems to be feeding off this heat from the audience. He is accompanied by Chyna who will probably try to get involved in whichever way she can. Owens music hits and its clear who the fans want to win. He doesn’t have time for high fives and the like though and looks very focused on defeating his nemesis tonight. Owen enters the ring and runs straight at Triple H, showing that he doesn’t care about mat wrestling tonight, even before the bell had rung tackling him to the ground and then unleashing punches from every angle. The ref just decides to sound the bell.

 

Owen continues to beat the hell out of Triple H using all his anger which has built up these past weeks. Triple H uses a thumb to the eye though to gain the upper hand. He hit a face buster on Hart and then took him down with a running clothesline switching the momentum quickly. As Hart got to his feet Triple H whipped him into the corner and followed up with another big clothesline. He then started to chop the chest of Hart who looked in real pain as his chest grew redder and redder with every knife edge Triple H delivered. He was enjoying himself now and decided to put Owen away quickly. Triple H went for the first pedigree attempt but Hart counted the move throwing Triple H over his shoulders.

 

Ross: Hart could have turned this one into his favour now if he can just get to his feet first.

 

He couldn’t. Triple H was first to rise and gave Owen a nasty boot to the face when he was on all fours. Triple H went straight back to work on Owen hitting a well executed suplex and then dropping the knee onto Owens face a few times. It didn’t look good for Hart as Triple H looked determined to beat him tonight. A couple more moves were delivered brilliantly by Triple H including a big spinebuster which he made a pin attempt after, but Owen kicked out after two.

 

Cornette: This is great JR. Owen must be wishing he’d never have challenged Triple H to a match now.

 

Triple H put Owen on the second rope and ascended the turnbuckle ready to punch Owens lights out. 1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9 punches connected and then a huge 10th from Triple H. He then raised his arms in the air still on the turnbuckle causing the crowd to scowl and hiss at him. Owen reached deep inside and lifted Triple H up and hit a spinebuster of his own from the second rope. Ross was shouting at Owen to make the cover, but he’d taken too much punishment. They both got to their feet around the same time and started trading blows. Triple H gave up on punches and delivered a knee to the gut, but Owen again reached deep countering the move by catching the knee which caused Triple H fall backwards. Owen wasted little time and locked in the sharpshooter which had the crowd going crazy as Triple H tried desperately to reach for the ropes.

 

Ross: He has him. Triple H has to tap or risk a broken leg.

 

Triple H couldn’t lose to Owen and he knew this. He probably wouldn’t be able to turn up the wrestle ever again. He’d made such a big fuss about how much better he was than Owen and that he didn’t even need to try and now Owen was on the brink of victory. Triple H was stretching and stretching, but Owen carried on putting pressure onto the hold, but at last Triple H’s strength told and he powered Owen across the ring with his legs and Owen clattered into the referee. The hold had been broken, but surely it had done the damage. Triple H tried to stand, but he had to use the ropes as a walking stick. Triple H signalled to Chyna at ringside who immediately lifted up the curtain on the ring and went looking under. Owen was up by this team and definitely in the better condition of the two men. Triple H was in the corner and Owen was in the opposite corner. He started to charge at Triple H, but Chyna quickly handed her partner a sledgehammer and Owen ran into it, his head bouncing straight off it and blood started to pour out of the wound. Triple H picked a lifeless Owen up and hit a pedigree before collapsing onto the floor, the pain from his leg was almost unbearable. He threw an arm on top of Owen and a few seconds later the ref began a count. 1…..2…..3.

 

Winner: Triple H

Match Rating: B+

 

 

Ross: DX have stolen two wins tonight! Disgusting is what it is.

 

Cornette: What a performance from Triple H, he showed tremendous courage to not tap to the sharpshooter and even manages to resist the pain and hit a spectacular pedigree to finish Owen off. I think we found out who the better wrestling was tonight.

 

Ross: Nonsense! He hit Owen around the head with a sledgehammer. That show probably knocked him out aswell.

 

Cornette: I wouldn’t have been surprised Owen actually ran into it. Did you see how far he flew backwards. He’ll give Owen credit if he jus survives that.

 

Ross Up next folks it’s the main event. The WWF Champion, The Showstopper, ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels defends his gold against quite possibly the most disturbing man in the WWF, Mankind.

 

 

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World Heavyweight Championship

‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels © vs. Mankind

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpgvs.http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpg

 

Mankind entered the ring to a good reaction from the crowd. He brought down a baking tray which surprised everybody in the ring because the match had no stipulation or anything. When he got into the ring the mystery of the backing tray was solved as he clattered himself in the with it about a dozen times which I suppose was Mankind’s way of psyching himself up for the title match. Michaels came down looking his usual ****y self doing his unique poses which actually got a good response from the crowd even though he was supposed to be one of the biggest heels in the company. The referee held up the title belt showing it to both competitors and the crowd before passing it down to the ringside and declaring the match underway.

 

Michaels was too fast for Mankind in the early goings and gained an advantage due to an atomic drop. Mankind quickly fought back though hitting a nice DDT which took Michaels by surprise and probably made him more focused for what Mankind had to offer. The two circled each after a very even opening and locked up again with Michaels putting Mankind into a sleeper hold. Mankind fought to break it, but Michaels had it locked it well and was putting a lot of pressure on the neck trying to choke his challenger out. Mankind had stopped fighting and the ref decided to drop the arm of Mankind. It fell so the ref lifted it up for a second time, but again it just fell straight back down to Mankind’s side. For the third time he dropped the arm, but Mankind kept it still mid air and began to fight the hold harder than he did before putting every ounce of energy into it and manages to stand with Michaels still holding onto the neck. He fell backwards and Michaels released the hold.

 

Mankind managed to take control now landing a few big punches aswell as another DDT to Michaels. He made a quick cover, but Michaels wasn’t ready to give in yet and easily kicked out. Mankind pulled out some of his hair clearly frustrated at Michaels kicking out. This just seemed to spur Mankind on more though as he hit a hard leg drop onto Michaels. Mankind had another couple of near pinfalls, but Michaels was hanging in there. In a moment of madness he decided to climb the turnbuckle onto the top rope, but Michaels had it scouted leaping up there with him and hitting a huge superplex which made a loud noise in the ring as Mankind’s back smashed off the canvas. Michaels struggled a bit before making a cover, but this time Michaels was on the receiving end of the frustration as Mankind kicked out. Michaels hit a slam on Mankind and quickly ascended the top rope. He flew from the ropes hitting Mankind square in the heart with an elbow. Michaels began scouting Mankind in the corner tuning up the band ready for some sweet chin music when some familiar music hit.

 

 

http://img162.imageshack.us/img162/2623/owenhartwa7.jpg

 

 

Michaels forgot about kicking Mankind’s teeth out for a minute and faced the ropes to see Owen Hart walking to the ring talking trash. Michaels began pointing for him to go back and began talking trash of his own. The referee told Owen to go to the back as Mankind began stirring in the ring. He rolled Michaels up who was taken by surprise and the ref quickly stopped talking to Owen and started a count. 1….2…..3. New Champion! New Champion!

 

Winner and new WWF World Heavyweight Champion, Mankind

Match Rating: B+

 

 

Owen looked completely overjoyed at ringside as Michaels just stared at him not believing what he’d done. Owen just smiled back at Michaels while he slowly headed for the back probably feeling that he has done his brother a favour, but at what cost? He wasn’t in the firing line of Michaels before hand, but surely now Michaels will be looking for revenge.

 

The show ends with Mankind celebrating with the fans in the ring. It really is a dream come true for Mankind and he can’t hide his delight as he runs around the arena like a giddy child. He couldn’t care less about the way in which he won the title, but only about the fact he is the Champion.

 

 

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IYH: Degeneration X Rating: B+

Starrcade Rating: C

 

IYH: Degeneration X Buy Rates: 14.78

Starrcade Buy Rates: 19.10

[totti]

WWF Raw is War Preview

 

Debut Match

The Darkside (Vampiro and Gangrel) vs. The Headbangers

 

Royal Rumble Qualifier

‘The Lethal Weapon’ Steve Blackman vs. Goldust

Debut match

‘Dr Death’ Steve Williams vs. Blackjack Windham

 

Rocky Maivia vs. Ahmed Johnson

 

Intercontinental Championship rematch

‘The Worlds Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock © vs. ‘The Leader of the Nation’ Farooq

 

Main Event Non Title Match

Mankind vs. Triple H

 

Plus,

 

Shawn Michaels lost his WWF Title at In Your House after interference from Bret’s brother Owen. He looked distraught towards the closing segments of the show and will be looking for revenge over the Hart Foundation. Bret continues to play it cool with Shawn saying that eventually the time will come when Bret can extract his revenge. Will we hear anything from the Hitman tonight?

 

Austin was unfairly beaten at the pay per view at the hands of Kane, but McMahon wasn’t bothered. He just wanted Austin embarrassed. Austin will surely have something in store for McMahon on this addition of Raw or will McMahons dreams come true and the loss to Kane was too unbearable for Austin that he quits the WWF?

 

Jeff Jarrett defeated Jerry Lawler in a very brutal affair and we hear Lawler is recovering in hospital. Jarrett certainly showed he had an extreme side and looks to have found a new enemy after Light Heavyweight Champion attacked him after the match saving Lawler from more punishment. What will Jarrett have to say about this?

 

Mankind claimed his first Championship at In Your House and looked ecstatic as he ran around the arena celebrating. On Raw a celebration will be held in Mankind’s honour. We may also find out who Mankind will defend the belt against at The Rumble with Michaels in the frame probably wanting a rematch. Maybe a new contender will emerge though.

[totti]

WWF Raw is War

 

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/6358/rawiswarlogobq0.jpg

 

 

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8448/jimrossdm5.jpghttp://img174.imageshack.us/img174/6050/jerrylawlerfd0.jpg

 

Ross: Hello folks and Welcome to Raw is War. Last night at In Your House we witnessed the Heavyweight title change hands as Mankind defeated Shawn Michaels.

 

Cornette: Unfairly may I add. He needed a distraction from Owen to get the job done. You know that title will be back with DX before long.

 

Ross: I’m sure Michaels will be demanding a rematch tonight, but he will also want revenge over Owen and also has Bret to worry about. He’s gonna be a busy man.

 

Cornette: That’s why he has people to watch his back JR.

 

Ross: I guess your right. First up we have The Darkside’s debut. These guys made an impact at In Your House claiming to dominate the tag division, let’s see if they can back this up in the ring.

 

‘Break it down’

 

Ross: I guess that match will have to wait as we’re joined by DX in the ring.

 

 

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http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpghttp://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpg

http://i29.tinypic.com/wbq592.jpghttp://img80.imageshack.us/img80/570/jessejames1998dc9.jpghttp://img175.imageshack.us/img175/8372/billygunn19982gk3.jpg

All of DX head to the ring, Triple H and The Outlaws look very happy with their victories last night, but Michaels clearly isn’t in the mood tonight. The crowd jeer their walk to the ring.

 

 

Michaels: Shut the f**k up. I ain’t in the mood. First of all Owen get your scrawny little ass down to this ring or I’ll come back there and bring you out myself you son of a b***h.

 

 

http://img162.imageshack.us/img162/2623/owenhartwa7.jpg

Owen comes down with stitches in his forehead which were caused by Triple H. He already has a mic in hand and is starting to talk.

 

Owen: You better blame your buddy, Hunter for losing the title Shawn. See he cheated to beat me last night and I was just evening the odds for The Hart Foundation. It didn’t make me feel any better though and I’d have rather taken the win over Triple H, but I had to get my own back somehow and this way, Bret wins too. You see Shawn, now you don’t have the title, Bret can face you in a normal singles match. No more BS about you not defending it against him.

 

Michaels: Don’t you think I’m going to be facing your brother anytime soon, Owen. I’m going back out there to get my title what ever it takes. That fat piece of crap Mankind won’t be holding on to my title too much longer.

 

Owen: I’m sure I speak on behalf of the whole Hart Foundation when I say that we’ll do everything in our power to stop that title going back to you. Hunter, you’ve been awfully quiet over in the corner. Rematch next week on Raw!

 

Triple H: I haven’t had much to say, Owen. But if you want me to start then I have no problem I kicked your f**king ass at In Your House and yet you want to face me again. Have you got anything in that tiny little head of yours? Listen and listen closely. I’m never facing you ever again, Owen. I beat you easily and I have nothing more to prove and now need to concentrate all my energy into the Rumble. End of the matter. Case closed.

 

Michaels: Owen, going back to what you said earlier. You think the Hart Foundation can stop me becoming the Champion again. Did you not see the results at In Your House? 2 – 0 to DX!

 

Owen: But I scored the biggest victory, Shawn. You don’t have your title anymore.

 

 

http://i29.tinypic.com/vfk2gp.jpg

Bret’s music hits and he joins Owen on the ramp.

 

Bret: Shawn, You just wait until the Rumble.

 

Bret practically leaves as quickly as he entered. Owen joins him.

 

 

Michaels: Shut up, Bret! Don’t take any notice of him. He’s been too scared to even confront me so whats he gonna do in the Rumble match. Slaughter, get your ass out here and grant me my rematch against Mankind.

 

 

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/5897/sgtslaughteryf3.jpg

Slaughter comes down and stands on the ramp, mic in hand.

 

Slaughter: You think you can cause havoc around this company for the past months and expect me to give you a rematch for the title just like that? No way, Shawn!

 

Michaels: What the hell, Slaughter? You can’t do this!

 

Slaughter: I can, Shawn and I am. I’ll tell you what. Triple H is in the main event tonight with Mankind right? If he beats Mankind tonight then you get your rematch the week after on Raw.

 

Michaels nods in the ring looking happy enough with this and begins to talk to Triple H as Slaughter turns around ready to head to the back. He walks a bit, but then begins to speak again.

 

Slaughter: Wait a minute Michaels. I almost forgot something. Tonight in that match any outside interference will result in that rematch being instantly lost.

 

The crowd pop knowing Michaels is not going to get an easy ride to the title tonight. His smile he had before quickly evaporates away as he just stares forward looking angry.

 

 

Ross: Michaels is relying entirely on Triple H tonight then. He has no say in the matter at all.

 

Cornette: I don’t think they’d be any better hands to place your title shot chance in than Triple H. That man can get it done in the ring. We saw it against Owen at IN Your House and we’ll see it against Mankind tonight.

 

Ross: He’s a brilliant wrestler there’s no doubt about that, but he relies too much on dirty tactics to win his matches. Now we’ll get to see The Darkside in action.

 

 

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The Darkside vs. The Headbangers

http://i28.tinypic.com/2d1s615.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qd31xy.jpgw. http://i28.tinypic.com/erelb4.jpgvs.http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/3010/glenruth1998bk0.jpghttp://img143.imageshack.us/img143/5509/mosh1998rm7.jpg

 

The Jackal makes his presence known at ringside as every time a member of The Darkside look to be losing he seems to motivate them to get the edge back. They wrap it up with an impaler DDT by Gangrel on Mosh.

 

Winners: The Darkside

Match Rating: E+

 

 

Ross: They certainly impressed tonight, but they have a long way to go yet.

 

Cornette: They have everything, JR. The Outlaws are a superb tag team, but they could finally have some competition for their titles here.

 

 

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http://i31.tinypic.com/34e6g0k.jpg

Jeff Jarrett makes his way down to the ring still limping a little from last night.

 

Jarrett: (Beaming) You all saw what I did to Lawler last night. I don’t think he’ll ever be the same an again and there’s no way he’ll be back in this company. (Now more serious) Jerry Lynn on the other hand.

 

Crowd pop at the mention of his name.

 

Jarrett: Well let’s just say I have plans for Jerry Lynn and they involve me kicking his ass next week right here on Raw.

 

 

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/276/jerrylynnkd2.jpg

Lynn storms out from the back and gets into the ring with Jarrett who doesn’t back down.

 

Jarrett: What do you say to that then Lynn? That’ll teach you for meddling in my business.

 

Lynn: Teach me? The only teaching going on here is to you when I deliver a master class performance next week. I won the Light Heavyweight Championship in my first match with the company and have retained it against some very talented workers. Workers who would show you up in the ring Jarrett so I’m pretty damn confident about next week.

 

Jarrett: Did you not see In Your House Lynn?

 

Lynn: I saw the Light Heavyweight Champion make another defence of his title.

 

Jarrett: I’m talking about the future of the WWF tear Jerry Lawler to shreds and put the poor ba****d in hospital. I took extreme to a whole level.

 

Lynn: How about trying your hand at some wrestling then, Jeff? They’ll be no stipulation in our match so be prepared to be spending a lot of time with your back on the mat.

 

Jarrett: You just wait until, Lynn. You’re lucky I don’t qualify as a Light Heavyweight or that title you carry around so proudly would be around my waist.

 

Lynn gets right in the face of Jarrett who does the same. He then decides he’s had enough and breaks off their intense stare down heading to the back.

 

 

Ross: I can’t wait for that, Cornette.

 

Cornette: Nope me neither, JR. It should be pretty funning seeing Jarrett beating the hell out of yet another wrestler. I wouldn’t be surprised if we just saw the man who’ll outlast 30 others in the Royal Rumble match.

 

Ross: I don’t know about that. Lynn looks ready for action though.

 

Cornette: I suppose we’ll finally get to see what hes really made of as all these nonsense Championship matches.

 

Ross: I thought you enjoyed the division?

 

Cornette: I’m starting to get really sick of Jerry Lynn though.

 

Ross: Next up folks we have the first of many Royal Rumble qualifying matches as Blackman takes on Goldust.

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Royal Rumble Qualifier

‘The Lethal Weapon’ Steve Blackman vs. Goldust

http://i30.tinypic.com/2m601dw.jpgvs.http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/7189/goldustud3.jpg

 

The two have quite an even match with both competitors intent on featuring in the Royal Rumble. There was also some good chemistry shown. Goldust won the match when he hit the final cut on Blackman.

 

Winner: Goldust

Match Rating: B-

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpg

Mankind comes to the ring soaking up every minute of the crowd chanting his name. It seems their happy with their new champion.

 

He pauses for a moment while the crowd continue to cheer for him.

 

Mankind: And I love you guys too.

 

Cheap pop from the crowd.

 

Mankind: Last night was the greatest day in my life barring my wedding day and of course the birth of my two kids. I thought I would come out here and celebrate with the most important thing in any wrestling promotion, the fans.

 

Another cheap pop there from Mankind.

 

Mankind: If it wasn’t for you guys I’d have no intention of putting my body on the line every night and probably would have never become the WWF Champion. I just hope I can repay the faith you show me by being the best Champion I can be.

 

To the fans. He raises the belt in the air as the crowd cheer.

 

Mankind: While I’m on this subject I may aswell thank a few people who made this dream a reality. My mother and my father, I thank you for putting me on this earth because if it wasn’t for that drunken night all those years back I wouldn’t be here today. Next I would like to thank my childhood therap…

 

 

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpghttp://img529.imageshack.us/img529/899/paulbearerui8.jpg

Mankind is cut off by the arrival of Kane and his manager Paul Bearer. They head down to the ring before Bearer starts to speak.

 

Bearer: Mankind, you reign will be over as quickly as it started because at the Royal Rumble you will face the man who has had no trouble dominating wrestlers these past weeks. Kane! Whether you or Michaels is the Champion your just keeping it warm until the real Champion can claim it at the Rumble.

 

Kane goes straight for Mankind as Mankind tries to defend himself, he was taken off guard clearly not thinking he’d have to wrestle until later tonight. After a few punches Kane hoists The Champion up for a chokeslam before heading off to the back feeling his point has been made.

 

 

Ross: It looks like we’ve found our challenger to Mankind’s title.

 

Cornette: Mankind or Michaels title JR. Triple H must have the edge for tonight now after that huge chokeslam.

 

Ross: Mankind is one tough son of gun so don’t expect that chokeslam from Kane to be the deciding factor tonight. Next up folks we have the debut of Steve Williams as he faces Blackjack Windham.

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

‘Dr Death’ Steve Williams vs. Blackjack Windham

http://i29.tinypic.com/nquwyr.jpgvs.http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/9073/barrywindhamqn3.jpg

 

Williams looks hugely impressive here with his no nonsense approach. He never took his eyes off Windham to play up to the crowd and finished him off with a doctor bomb.

 

Winner: Steve Williams

Match Rating: D+

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

We cut backstage where Shawn Michaels is on his mobile phone.

 

Michaels: You saw what happened last night so we’ve had to change the plans. It’s happening at the Rumble. You better be ready for it.

 

He pauses while the other person speaks.

 

Michaels: Good. We need this to go perfectly. I’ll catch you later.

 

Triple H: All good then?

 

Michaels: Yeah, he’s fine with the Rumble. Now you need to go prepare for your match, Hunter and I hope you have something up your sleeve for tonight.

 

Triple H: I’ll do my best, Shawn.

 

Triple H heads off down the corridor assumingly to his locker room.

 

 

Ross: What does Shawn mean and who was he talking to?

 

Cornette: How the hell am I supposed to know that JR. We’re just going to have to wait until The Rumble which is four weeks away. Anyway, how impressive was Williams tonight? I’ve seen that man wrestle before and I think he can play a major part in this company.

 

Ross: No messing about from him. Nation of Domination member Rocky Maivia is in action now against Ahmed Johnson.

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Rocky Maivia vs. Ahmed Johnson

http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/8774/therockzc7.jpgvs.http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/6875/ahmedjohnsonmk6.jpg

 

Rocky takes a microphone upon entering the ring and begins to speak.

 

Rocky: I hear the Rumble is coming up and they already know who the winner is going to be. That’s right ladies and gentleman, Rocky Maivia is going to win that match and go onto to Wrestlemania and bring home the Championship for the Nation. Now lets get down to business. Johnson get your ass down to this ring so I can beat it.

 

The crowd laugh and Rocky realises what he said.

 

Rocky: Whoa! Rocky Didn’t mean that Johnson. As much as I’m sure you were looking forward to getting a beating from Rocky I don’t roll that way. Go get yourself a gigalo after show.

 

Rocky beats Johnson after a Rocky Bottom and looks to be getting gradually more over with the crowd.

 

Winner: Rocky Maivia

Match Rating: C

 

 

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http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/9440/vincemcmahonea6.jpghttp://img507.imageshack.us/img507/7555/kamazy1.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qn9rw6.jpg

The boss, Vince McMahon, makes his way to the ring accompanied by Kama Mustafa and D’lo Brown. Rocky stays in the ring after his match and joins his Nation friends. Farooq is in the back preparing for his title match.

 

Ross: I wondered when we’d see him.

 

 

McMahon: First of all I would like to congratulate Kane for destroying Austin and making the WWF a much better place. I think you’ll all agree that after last night he deserved that title shot.

 

The crowd reply with some very loud booing.

 

McMahon: Second of al…

 

 

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

McMahon is cut off by the sound of breaking glass and is nearly deafened by the reception Austin receives as he darts out to the ring.

 

Austin goes straight for Vince tackling him down and unleashing rights and lefts into his bosses face as Vince desperately tries to cover up. The Nation head over to help their boss out. Rocky grabs Austin by the shoulder trying to turn him around, but is met by a stunner. Austin then plants a double clothesline on Kama and D’lo before tossing them out of the ring to Vince and Rocky. Austin stands in the ring staring at the four men heading to the back panting away after his intense attack.

 

McMahon: How dare you Austin! You’re going up against the whole Nation at the Rumble in a no DQ match. 4 on 1! If you lose then you’re fired from my company! Let’s see you get yourself out of that one.

 

 

Ross: He can’t do that! Austin against four men for his job. It’s ridiculous. And the no DQ rule effectively adds McMahon and anyone else he wants to recruit to the match.

 

Cornette: He shouldn’t have come down here and assaulted the boss tonight. What do you think would happen if I worked in an office for example and just constantly beat up my manager? I don’t think I’d be there very long.

 

Ross: Put it how you want, Cornette. The fact is Austin was just getting revenge for what McMahon did last night. Vince is so intent on ridding Austin from this company.

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Intercontinental Championship

‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock © vs. ‘The Leader of the Nation’ Farooq

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/8081/kenshamrockxt7.jpgvs.http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/2077/ronsimmonsas9.jpg

 

The two combine for a good match with Farooq’s lackeys getting involved at every opportunity to give him the edge, but Shamrock, just like at In Your House, manages to overcome this and forces Farooq to tap to the ankle lock for the second straight night.

 

Winner and still Intercontinental Champion, Ken Shamrock

Match Rating: B-

 

 

Ross: We could be looking at a long reign as Champion for Shamrock. You tell me somebody who is going to take this title from him?

 

Cornette: I can’t think of anyone JR. I may have to agree with you here.

 

Ross: Time for the main event now folks and remember is Triple H beats Mankind then Michaels will receive a title shot next week on Raw.

 

 

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Main Even Non Title Match (If Triple H wins Michaels gets his rematch)

Mankind vs. Triple H

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpgvs.http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpg

 

Triple H, normally accompanied by Chyna, walks to the ring alone clearly not happy with this ban on interference. Throughout the match Triple H attempts every dirty trick in the book to gain some sort of advantage over Mankind and provide his boss with a title shot. Mankind manages to frustrate Triple H the whole match constantly kicking out of near pinfalls or countering Triple H’s tricks.

 

With both men down Triple H goes over to the corner to recover, but sneakily manages to take the protection away from the turnbuckle leaving exposed metal. He goes over to Mankind landing a few shots to the face to weaken him some more and then tries to whip him into the exposed turnbuckle, but Mankind counters whipping Triple H into the corner. Triple H, knowing he’d taken the protection off, puts his hands out onto the ropes to stop him. Mankind follows up quickly though and with Triple H facing the turnbuckle he lifts him up by the chest dropping his face onto the metal. Triple H bounces off it and falls down to the mat. Mankind covers. 1…2…3.

 

Winner: Mankind

Match Rating: A

 

 

Ross: Triple H’s tactics backfire on him big time there.

 

Cornette: Mankind cheated for the win! You can’t drop somebodies head on an exposed turnbuckle like that.

 

Ross: Triple H shouldn’t have taken the protection off in the first place then. I guess this means Michaels won’t be getting his title shot.

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Raw Rating: B

Nitro Rating: C+

 

Raw TV Rating: 4.31

Nitro TV Rating: 6.54

[totti]

WWF Raw is War Preview

 

Great Sasuke vs. Tajiri vs. Super Loco

 

10 man Battle Royal for a shot at the IC Title

Ahmed Johnson vs. Kama Mustafa vs. D’lo Brown vs. Marco Mero vs. Flash Funk vs. Steve Blackman vs. Savio Vega vs. Kurrgan vs. Bob Holly vs. Recon

 

The Darkside vs. The New Blackjacks

 

Non Title Match

Jerry Lynn vs. Jeff Jarrett

 

'Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels and Triple H vs. The New Hart Foundation

 

Non Title Match/Champion vs. Champion

Mankind vs. 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' Ken Shamrock

 

Plus,

 

With Michaels out of the title picture Kane emerged as the first challenger to Mankind’s newly won Championship. The two will square off at the Royal Rumble and surely Kane will want to gain an advantage with such a big prize to play for.

 

Vince McMahon thought he’d got rid of Austin after his defeat at the hands of Kane at In Your House, but Austin interrupted him last week and raised hell. Vince then announced that Austin would face every single member of The Nation of Domination in a 4 – 1 No DQ handicap match and if Austin loses he’s fired. What will Austin’s reaction to this news be?

 

Bret says he’ll get his revenge at The Rumble while Michaels seems to have a plan. He was caught on the phone last week talking to a mysterious stranger. Maybe we’ll find out more tonight?

[tristram]

Great Sasuke vs. Tajiri vs. Super Loco - this is where I'd put Sasuke on the winning streak towards Jerry Lynn, and build a super match up between the two

 

10 man Battle Royal for a shot at the IC Title

Ahmed Johnson vs. Kama Mustafa vs. D’lo Brown vs. Marco Mero vs. Flash Funk vs. Steve Blackman vs. Savio Vega vs. Kurrgan vs. Bob Holly vs. Recon - got a soft spot for Marc Mero, but I'll go D'Lo

 

The Darkside vs. The New Blackjacks

 

Non Title Match

Jerry Lynn vs. Jeff Jarrett

 

'Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels and Triple H vs. The New Hart Foundation

 

Non Title Match/Champion vs. Champion

Mankind vs. 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' Ken Shamrock - how Foley survives I have no idea, but that's the idea with him, right? Takes all the pain in the world and still survives

 

Sorry for not responding these last few days, been chaos broheim, but I'm defniitely still reading on.

[totti]

Great Sasuke vs. Tajiri vs. Super Loco - this is where I'd put Sasuke on the winning streak towards Jerry Lynn, and build a super match up between the two

 

10 man Battle Royal for a shot at the IC Title

Ahmed Johnson vs. Kama Mustafa vs. D’lo Brown vs. Marco Mero vs. Flash Funk vs. Steve Blackman vs. Savio Vega vs. Kurrgan vs. Bob Holly vs. Recon - got a soft spot for Marc Mero, but I'll go D'Lo

 

The Darkside vs. The New Blackjacks

 

Non Title Match

Jerry Lynn vs. Jeff Jarrett

 

'Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels and Triple H vs. The New Hart Foundation

 

Non Title Match/Champion vs. Champion

Mankind vs. 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' Ken Shamrock - how Foley survives I have no idea, but that's the idea with him, right? Takes all the pain in the world and still survives

 

Sorry for not responding these last few days, been chaos broheim, but I'm defniitely still reading on.

 

Good to hear, Tristam. I'm hoping things will become more exciting after the Rumble because I have a few surprises in store between then and Wrestlemania. Oh and about the Lynn/Sasuke thing. I thought of some stuff for my Light Heavyweight Division yesterday and those two are very much involved. I love that type of wrestling so it's going to be a big factor here. I felt that I needed a storyline or two for the workers to get them more involved in the diary, it's pointless to have them wrestler week in week out with no real reasons why except to go after the belt. It'd soon get old. So that should be introduced as soon as I can fit something in.

 

I guess you've got Road Wild up now then. I'll have to check that out later, but at the moment i'm busier than i was at the start of this diary. College has started, I have to try and get to the gym plus playing footy a few times a week and of course other stuff on top of that. Updates won't be as frequent in here as they were before. My aim is to have the Rumble up probably next weekend meaning a show tomorrow, then hopefully one by friday/early saturday and then probably another early monday and then work on the Rumble for the week. Thats the plan anyway.

[totti]

WWF Raw is War

 

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/6358/rawiswarlogobq0.jpg

 

 

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8448/jimrossdm5.jpghttp://img174.imageshack.us/img174/6050/jerrylawlerfd0.jpg

 

Ross: Hello folks and Welcome to another exiting edition of Raw is War. We have a fantastic main event for you tonight as the World Champion takes on the Intercontinental Champion. It’s Mankind versus Ken Shamrock and it looks set to be a Raw classic.

 

Cornette: Yeah, that one will be great and all, but personally I can’t wait to see Jarrett take on Lynn tonight. Jarrett will take a closer step to receiving a title shot when he beats him. Like he said last week, it’s lucky for Lynn that he isn’t a weed like him or that title would be going to Jarrett.

 

Ross: Well, I can’t wait for Lynn to prove you wrong tonight. We should also mention that Triple H and Michaels team to face Bulldog and Niedhart in what is sure to explode.

 

Cornette: It certainly will JR. Those two are hardly a match fro Triple H and Michaels though.

 

Break it down

 

 

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http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpghttp://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpg

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The whole of Degeneration X make their way down to the ring.

 

Michaels: Whoa. Quieten down you pieces of trash.

 

This only gets the crowd louder.

 

Michaels: Hey, just let DX tell you what their gonna do at the Rumble then you can boo us all you please.

 

The crowd quietens down and Michaels begins to speak.

 

Michaels: So the Rumble is approaching us and your probably wondering whose gonna be going onto Wrestlemania to face whoever the Champion may be. Simple. Me! I was screwed out of my title shot with s**t little rules introduced by Slaughter. (Mockingly) You can’t have anybody at ringside. Blah, blah, blah. F**k you Slaughter. We ain’t taking any of your crap no more so if you have something to say about that then you better get out here and let us know.

 

He pauses for a while and then comes to a conclusion.

 

Michaels: Didn’t think so. I was screwed out of my title, screwed out of my rematch, but I won’t be screwed out becoming the Royal Rumble winner. I have made sure everything is in place and nothing can go wr…

 

 

Glass Shattering

 

 

Ross: Bah gawd, Austin! Austin’s coming to confront DX.

 

 

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

Sure enough there was Stone Cold heading down to the ring and the crowd was going crazy. He ascended a few turnbuckles playing up to the fans before getting a microphone and beginning to talk.

 

Austin: Shut the hell up!

 

This creates a huge cheer from the crowd.

 

Austin: I don’t care how many times you’ve been screwed Michaels. I mean what you do in your own time is non of Stone Colds business, but I do care about the fact you think you’ll be working out of the Rumble as the winner.

 

Michaels: You won’t even have a job to participate in the Rumble so I don’t know how you think you’ll stop me, Austin.

 

Austin: I’ll be taking names and raising hell in my match against The Nation and then doing the same thing later in the night when I enter the Rumble.

 

Michaels: Not gonna happen, Austin. It’s just not gonna happen. We have plans. We know exactly what we’re gonna do in that match.

 

Austin: F**k your stupid little plans Michaels! All I need to be in that match as usual is Stone Cold. Kick some f**king ass!

 

The crowd cheer again as Michaels looks around looking livid.

 

Austin: If you think Stone Cold will be walking out of the Rumble as the winner give me a hell yeah?

 

Hell Yeah!!!

 

Austin gets right in the face of Michaels.

 

Austin: And that’s the bottom line cos Stone Cold said so.

 

With that he drops the microphone in the ring and exits to the back leaving Michaels looking ready to explode in the ring.

 

 

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Great Sasuke vs. Tajiri vs. Super Loco

http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8465/greatsasukeqs4.jpgvs.http://i28.tinypic.com/izuzav.jpgvs.http://i31.tinypic.com/2604gi0.jpg

 

The three combine for a swift, frantic affair with a few high spots, but not too many so that they wear the crowd out. They basically do their job of warming the crowd up without putting on a spectacular high flying match. Sasuke is the most impressive and definitely becoming a fan favourite after his spots at In Your House. He won after hitting Loco with a Michinoku Driver.

 

Winner: Great Sasuke

Match Rating: D-

 

 

Ross: Sasuke was very impressive against these two newcomers tonight and I couldn’t really fault Tajiri or Super Loco. Those two looked very good aswell and I have to say that the WWF is looking likely to be putting on as good if not better high flying wrestling than anywhere else.

 

 

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10 man Battle Royal for a shot at the IC Title

Ahmed Johnson vs. Kama Mustafa vs. D’lo Brown vs. Marco Mero vs. Flash Funk vs. Steve Blackman vs. Savio Vega vs. Kurrgan vs. Bob Holly vs. Recon

 

Nothing special here. Just a match to find a challenger for Shamrock’s title. Some nice quick elimination’s early on and the final four ended up being Johnson, D’lo, Kama and Mero. D’lo and Kama didn’t know what to do as they were buddies and just looked at each other while Johnson and Mero went at it. Those two decided to team up for a moment to get rid of the tag team and were successful. Mero quickly capitalised throwing Johnson over the ropes and then celebrated his title shot with his beautiful wife, Sable, in the ring.

 

Winner: Marc Mero

Match Rating: D

 

 

After the match Mero picks up a microphone.

 

Mero: Your looking a new man right here. I have become a better man and all because of this beautiful woman in the ring with me today. Shes made me the person I am now, the person who has just won the battle royal and the person I’m sure you’d all love to have as your Intercontinental Champion.

 

The crowd don’t take too kindly to Mero even though he says hes a changed man.

 

Mero: Give it up for my wife, Sable!

She gets a better reaction from the crowd. Mostly the men in the audience though and it isn’t too much cheering, more like whistling.

 

 

Ross: Mero looks to have found love and feels it’s changed him for the better.

 

Cornette: Women. Don’t tell me Mero has gone all soft on us.

 

Ross: Judging by that performance tonight I wouldn’t say so. In fact I’d say that Shamrocks title could be serious threat.

 

 

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The Darkside vs. The New Blackjacks

http://i28.tinypic.com/2d1s615.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qd31xy.jpgw. http://i28.tinypic.com/erelb4.jpgvs.http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/9073/barrywindhamqn3.jpghttp://i32.tinypic.com/20hlbte.jpg

 

 

The Darkside were again in top form mostly working on the aged Barry Windham and trying not to give Bradshaw too much of a look in. The Jackal just like last week seems to hold all the power though and when he started tapping on the ring for them to end the match; they did exactly as they were told.

 

Winners: The Darkside

Match Rating: D-

 

 

Ross: Another impressive performance from Gangrel and Vampiro.

 

Cornette: I'm really digging this tag team, JR and like I said last week. It's only a matter of time until they take the titles.

 

 

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http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin comes down to the ring for the second time tonight and receives another loud pop from this audience.

 

Austin: McMahon thinks he can screw with me putting my career on the line in near impossible odds so I ain’t gonna lie, I might not be around this place much longer.

 

The crowd boo obviously not happy at the possibility of never seeing Austin again.

 

Austin: What can I do? I’ve gotta face guys at The Rumble, but I promise I will give everything I have. They’ll have to kill me in that match because I will never give in. Now, I thought I’d take these next couple of weeks to take a look at some McMahon moments I’ve compiled over the past week. So take a look at the screen and see what you think. Roll the footage.

 

The titantron shows Vince walking down the corridor passing people like Brisco and Patterson on the way. He greets them and asks them how they are before finding himself outside his office. He takes a small breath and then opens the door and walks inside, but hes unceremoniously met by a bucket of yellow liquid which seems to topple from the door frame and land straight on Vince’s head. He shouts angrily before removing the bucket and going to get a towel. Once he has mopped up his face. He takes a seat in his chair but as he sits down it collapses leaving Vince in a heap in the floor. He shouts louder than ever as we cut back to the ring to see Austin crying with laughter.

 

Austin: Who would do that to poor old Vince? (Turns serious) You better rethink your decision to place my career on the line Vince because this is just going to get much, much worse.

 

With that he drops the microphone in the ring just like before and heads off into the back.

 

 

Ross: You had to love that, Cornette.

 

Cornette: What does he think he’s doing? Is it not enough that his career is on the line on Sunday?

 

Ross: He’s got nothing to lose. He might aswell have a bit of fun. I wonder what Austin has in store for us next week then.

 

 

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Non Title Match

Jerry Lynn vs. Jeff Jarrett

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/276/jerrylynnkd2.jpgvs.http://i31.tinypic.com/34e6g0k.jpg

 

These two combine for a good match, but it is tainted by the way in which the victory is claimed. Jarrett rolls up Lynn keeping hold of the tights for leverage aswell as putting a foot on the rope. The ref was oblivious to either offence.

 

Winner: Jeff Jarrett

Match Rating: C

 

Ross: Come on! Lynn didn't deserve to lose like that.

 

Cornette: What a performance from my man. He really knows how to entertain.

 

------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

We cut backstage to the Hart Foundations locker room. Bulldog and Niedhart are in the corner preparing to their match and Owen is just sat staring at the wall. Bret pulls up a chair next to his brother.

 

Bret: What’s the matter, Owen?

 

Owen: I need to fight Hunter at the Rumble, Bret. I need to beat him.

 

Bret: But this is your big chance to transfer yourself firmly into the main event status. You need to be in that Rumble match.

 

Owen: I don’t think I can settle on just being able to beat Triple H in the ring during the Rumble match. I want him one on one.

 

Bret: Just wait until No Way Out, Owen. We already have our plans. Us four will work together until we are the only ones who remain and then we’ll step aside and let you have your moment. You deserve it, brother.

 

Owen: I’ll have to think about it, Bret. I have a question for you anyway. How can you be so happy with just getting to beat Michaels’s ass in the Rumble match?

 

Bret: Owen, that’s just gonna be the start. It’ll crush him if he doesn’t get that shot at Mania and then I’ll have lots of fun with the son of a b***h.

 

Owen: (chuckling a bit) Good to hear. Yeah I’ll be in that Rumble and then afterwards we’ll never give Michaels and Hunter a moments sleep. It’ll be time for payback.

 

Bret: You said it, brother.

 

 

Bulldog and Niedhart get up to leave for their match.

 

 

Bret: Good luck out there tonight guys.

 

Owen: Yeah, and remember to kick Hunter’s ass for me.

 

 

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'Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels and Triple H vs. The New Hart Foundation

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpghttp://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpgvs.http://i27.tinypic.com/1zmkuhl.jpghttp://i31.tinypic.com/125pbox.jpg

 

A match thrown together to keep the rivalry up without giving too much away on television. Bulldog looks good against both Michaels and Triple H, but those two eventually grab the win after Triple H nailed Niedhart with a pedigree. Surprisingly there was no interference here.

 

Winners: Michaels and HHH

Match Rating: C+

 

 

Ross: DX gain some momentum there, but I thought this match would turn into a full on brawl.

 

Cornette: Told you they were no match for them, JR. You should really listen to me more.

 

Ross: (Ignoring Cornette) Time for the main event folks. Mankind versus Shamrock. Champion versus Champion.

 

 

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Non Title Match/Champion vs. Champion

Mankind vs. 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' Ken Shamrock

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpgvs.http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/8081/kenshamrockxt7.jpg

 

The two prove why they are both Champions in the WWF here as they both look very strong in this even bout. Towards the end Shamrock has the ankle lock locked in Mankind and he doesn’t seem to be able to go anywhere. Then Kane comes in from the back and Mero sprints through the crowd and they both attack their respective pay per view opponents which leads the referee to call this one a no contest.

 

 

Winner: No Contest

Match Rating: B

 

 

Ross: Somebody stop this beat down. Neither men are going to be in a good condition to fight at the Rumble if this continues.

 

 

After the match Kane and Mero continue to beat on Mankind and Shamrock who are exhausted after putting a great show for the fans. Kane hoists Mankind up and chokeslam’s him hard on the mat and then watches on as Mero taunts Shamrock by using his submission hold to which Shamrock is fighting around in agony. Kane then decides to prove how destructive he is by lifting Mero up for a chokeslam and then popping Shamrock on his shoulders and tomestoning him onto the mat.

 

 

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Raw Rating: B-

Nitro Rating: B-

 

Raw TV Rating: 4.24

Nitro TV Rating: 6.60

[chopps4312]

Great show. Any chance of a review of what happens with WCW and ECW? Like quick results weekly or monthly?

[totti]

Great show. Any chance of a review of what happens with WCW and ECW? Like quick results weekly or monthly?

 

 

No problem, mate. I'll start to update you monthly on the gameworld starting after the Rumble.

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

WWF Raw is War Preview

 

Heavy Metal vs. Tajiri

 

Great Sasuke vs. Super Loco

 

Legion of Doom vs. The Darkside

 

Kane vs. ‘The Lethal Weapon’ Steve Blackman

 

Farooq vs. ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin

 

Steve Williams vs. Goldust

 

Marc Mero, Triple H and Shawn Michaels vs. Ken Shamrock, Owen Hart and Mankind

 

Plus,

 

Last week Kane left a huge statement by not only beating up his opponent at The Rumble, Mankind, but also taking out both Shamrock and Mero proving his dominance which is definitely going to worry Mankind. Will Kane continue his dominance this week and will Mankind or even Shamrock or Mero have anything to say to him?

 

Austin embarrassed McMahon last week by rigging his office with various booby traps. He said that there was worse to come unless McMahon went back on his decision to put Austin’s career on the line against every Nation member in a No DQ match. Will McMahon give in or risk further embarrassment at the hands of Austin?

 

Michaels told the world that DX had a plan to make sure they would walk out of the Rumble with the title shot. Austin came out telling him that he isn’t just going to roll over and let Michaels win the match which has to worry Michaels knowing the ability Austin has to whoop ass. Bret and Owen promised to save their revenge for the Rumble and then make DX’s lives hell afterwards which surely DX will have something to say about.

 

Jarrett blatantly cheated to gain a victory over Jerry Lynn last week which clearly infuriated the Light Heavyweight Champion. He’s certainly not going to be finished with Jarrett yet.

[totti]

WWF Raw is War

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/6358/rawiswarlogobq0.jpg

 

 

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8448/jimrossdm5.jpghttp://img174.imageshack.us/img174/6050/jerrylawlerfd0.jpg

 

Ross: Hello folks and welcome to a jam packed edition of Raw is War. We have seven matches in total for you tonight aswell as a hell of a lot more action. Personally, I can’t wait to see what Austin has in store for Vince this week. He humiliated him last week and this week he says it’ll get worse if Vince doesn’t retract his decision to place Austin’s career on the line at The Rumble.

 

Cornette: There’s no way Vince is just going to forget about last week and withdraw the match at The Rumble. He’ll get revenge tonight and then it’ll be bye bye to Austin at the Rumble. Good riddance I’d say.

 

Ross: You can’t possibly mean that Cornette? Austin is probably the biggest star in the WWF at the moment and Vince is stupid to even considering messing with him like this. He knows better than most that in this current wrestling climate he needs to hang onto his biggest stars.

 

Cornette: It’ll benefit the WWF more if Austin wasn’t around anymore. We don’t need a no good beer drinking redneck here.

 

Ross: It’s your opinion, Cornette. It’s the wrong one, but it’s your opinion.

 

 

Break it down!

 

 

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We are joined in the ring by Shawn Michaels, Triple H and Chyna.

 

Michaels takes a microphone and waits for the booing to die down before beginning to speak.

 

Michaels: So, Bret and Owen think their going to make our lives hell after the Rumble. When me and Hunter heard this last week we nearly spat out our drinks! Biggest load of BS I’ve ever heard in my life! Just give up now guys. Me and Hunter have had your numbers since day one and Owen, I haven’t forgot about what went down at In Your House so you’re the one who better be watching out. You have no idea what is coming, Owen.

 

Triple H: Cheap shot right there, Shawn. Of Course Owen can’t see what is coming. I mean that nose must block a lot of his site.

 

Michaels and Triple H share a laugh in the ring as the crowd boo the remark.

 

Triple H: Enough of the joking though. They may think their the best wrestling family in wrestling history, but we know we are the best group to ever grace a wrestling ring. Degeneration X will go down in folklore and if you guys just want to join the list of people who have tried to dethrone us then be my guests.

 

Michaels: We only really have one goal at the Rumble and that is to make sure DX walk away with that title shot, but I think we can free up a bit of time to kick your asses aswell. Another thing that makes me laugh is that you seem to think Owen is going to be my biggest threat in this Rumble match. Owen would find a way of losing that match is everybody eliminated themselves for him. He’s just a joke of a wrestler. End of discussion. The point we’re trying to make is that the Hart Foundation will never be better than Degeneration X.

 

Michaels and HHH: Suck it!!

 

 

As Michaels, Triple H and Chyna head to the back they are interrupted.

 

 

http://img162.imageshack.us/img162/2623/owenhartwa7.jpg

Owen Hart stands alone at the ramp and looks to be fuming.

 

 

Owen: Who the hell do you two think you are?!

 

Triple H: Oh, Owen. We were hoping to see you tonight.

 

Owen looks confused on the ramp, but it’s soon clear why only three members of DX came to the ring tonight as The Outlaws attack Owen from behind and bring him into the ring.

 

Triple H: Where are your friends, Owen? Where is Bret, Jim and Davey, eh?

 

Triple H then lands a huge closed right into Owen’s face which knocks him onto the floor. He gets right in his face and starts talking trash.

 

Triple H: You’re playing with the big boys now, Owen.

 

He lands another few punches straight in Hart’s face before passing the mic onto Michaels while leaving Owen in a heap in a the corner of the ring.

 

Michaels: I would like to direct your attention to the screen.

 

Michael’s points to the screen which shows Bret, Bulldog and Niedhart all gathered around a car attempting to fix a puncture.

 

Michaels: We’ve outsmarted you, Owen and if you want to continue to ‘make our lives hell’ then there’s plenty more where that came from.

 

Michaels gives Owen a stiff kick for good measure and then leads Triple H and Chyna into the back.

 

 

Ross: They better have all the fun now because at the Rumble Bret is going to kick their ass. They just keep on fuelling his fire.

 

Cornette: There so smart though, JR. They knew exactly how to lure Owen out tonight and had a brilliant plan to soften him up.

 

 

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Heavy Metal vs. Tajiri

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/6286/heavymetalfg7.jpgvs.http://i28.tinypic.com/izuzav.jpg

 

Tajiri impresses here against a worker who many would have expected to win. It was a very even match with both men having around equal offence, but Tajiri wins it after a buzzsaw kick.

 

Winner: Tajiri

Match Rating: E+

 

 

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Great Sasuke vs. Super Loco

http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8465/greatsasukeqs4.jpgvs.http://i31.tinypic.com/2604gi0.jpg

 

Another fast paced match showcasing some brilliant WWF talent. The fans seem to dig this match much more though, probably because of small fan favourite Great Sasuke who is making a name for himself every week. He beats Loco with a perfectly executed moonsault.

 

Winner: Great Sasuke

Match Rating: D-

 

 

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http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/5897/sgtslaughteryf3.jpg

Sgt. Slaughter is shown on the titantron ready for an announcement.

 

Slaughter: So far we have no scheduled match for the WWF Tag Team Championships. After watching The Outlaws doing the dirty work for DX tonight I feel Bulldog and Niedhart should be given another chance to put them in their place. So at the Royal Rumble the New Age Outlaws will defend against The New Hart Foundation!

 

 

Ross: They have another chance to take the gold and rightly so aswell. They were screwed out of it at In Your House.

 

Cornette: Why should they get another shot? They lost and haven’t done anything since to warrant another chance at the Outlaws. We have The Darkside in action next. If The Outlaws have to defend at all it should be against a team like those.

 

 

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Legion of Doom vs. The Darkside

http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/4220/roadwarrioranimalws2.jpghttp://img440.imageshack.us/img440/8702/roadwarriorhawkls1.jpgvs.http://i28.tinypic.com/2d1s615.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qd31xy.jpgw.http://i28.tinypic.com/erelb4.jpg

 

You would expect this match to be a lot harder for The Darkside than in recent weeks, but they handle the situation very well. Vampiro and Gangrel have great chemistry as a team and they work both Warriors brilliantly. It seems like the Road Warriors days could be numbered though as both looked rather sluggish and didn’t look particularly dangerous.

 

Winner: The Darkside

Match Rating: D

 

 

Ross: What a victory for The Darkside! Against legends like LOD aswell!

 

Cornette: I don’t know why you sound so surprised. These guys are going to be our next Champions at some point.

 

 

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http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

The crowd erupts as ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin comes down to the ring.

 

Austin waits for the cheering to die down before beginning to speak.

 

Austin: Last week I gave Vince a taste of his own medicine and I loved every minute of it. I promised you more last week if Vince didn’t change the stipulation in the match and I’m ready with some juicy footage of the WWF Owner that I know you’re all dying to see. So, Vince, get out here and give me your decision.

 

 

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/9440/vincemcmahonea6.jpghttp://img507.imageshack.us/img507/7555/kamazy1.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qn9rw6.jpg

Mr. McMahon reluctantly comes down to the ring accompanied by Nation members Kama and D’lo for support.

 

Austin: Decision?

 

Vince: I don’t care what you want, Austin! Everything at the Rumble stands whether you like it or not. I’ll take any embarrassment you throw at me along as it means you’ll be gone from the company after the Rumble. You’ll never change my mind.

 

Austin: Really? Your wife in the back, Vince?

 

Vince: Yeah. So what?

 

Austin: Maybe she should come down here to watch this footage. Linda, come on down here.

 

 

http://i29.tinypic.com/2aj9t7o.jpg

Vince’s wife, Linda, joins them in the ring.

 

Vince: What the hell is this about, Austin?

 

Austin: Shut your trap and watch the video. Roll the footage!

 

 

The five people in the ring watch the titantron as it cuts into Vince’s locker room. A beautiful young woman is getting into the large shower. Once in there she throws out her bra and thong and then the camera moves to the right and Vince is shown with a thong hanging off his face. He shakes it off, takes a deep breath and then consumes a small blue pill while muttering to himself trying to psyche himself up for the task at hand. He enters the shower in his pants, but just like the woman he throws them outside. The shower doors are too steamy to see what is going on inside, but you could gain a clear enough picture from the noises going on. Vince asked the woman if she wanted to meet the little general and then a little later you could make out an object repeatedly hitting the behind of the Owner as he was down on all fours.

 

Austin: That’s too much. Cut the tape before I throw up. Anyway needs to nip outside, you have my permission.

 

Vince is just stood in the ring fixed to the spot, staring at the screen. He has no idea how to respond. Linda looks disgusted. She walks over to Vince and slaps him hard around the face which produces a huge cheer from the crowd.

 

Austin: Ouch! I guess she didn’t enjoy the show too much then? I suppose all I can do is apologize. I mean I could have ended your marriage right here tonight. Maybe I shouldn’t have shown the video after all.

 

Vince climbs out of the ring with his lackeys closing behind him and heads to the back obviously not in the mood to be taunted by Austin.

 

Austin: Whoops. That was probably a little too harsh even for Vince… Too bad Stone Cold doesn’t give a s**t! My career will not end at the Rumble, Vince and if this didn’t get you to take back that match then I guess I’ll just have to have another shot next week. Your hell has only just begun. And that’s the bottom line cos Stone Cold said so!

 

Austin leaves to a rapturous applause from the crowd who clearly loved seeing Vince humiliated for the second week in a row.

 

 

Ross: That was great, Cornette. If it will be Austin’s last match with us at the Rumble he certainly knows how to go out with a bang.

 

Cornette: Somebody seriously needs to teach him a lesson. The Rumble can’t come quick enough.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Kane w. Paul Bearer vs. ‘The Lethal Weapon’ Steve Blackman

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpgw.http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/899/paulbearerui8.jpgvs.http://i30.tinypic.com/2m601dw.jpg

 

Blackman tries his best, but Kane seems to be getting better every week. This was his shortest squash yet and he got some great elevation on the chokeslam.

 

Winner: Kane

Match Rating: C

 

 

After the match Paul Bearer takes a microphone from ringside and begins to speak with Kane at his side.

 

Bearer: Are you running scared yet, Mankind? You saw the destruction my client caused last week you also saw how easily he just disposed of Blackman here tonight. I’ve had a talk with Kane and he doesn’t just want any kind of match at the Rumble. He actually had a stipulation in mind to make his first title victory more interesting. So, Mankind, what do you say to a casket match!?

 

The two pause for a second before…

 

 

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpg

Mankind’s music hits and he stands on the ramp with a mic.

 

Mankind: Kane, you want to challenge for my title at the Rumble in a match where not only is everything legal, but in order to win your match you have to decapitate your opponent so much that they are practically dead weight so you can place them into a casket and quite possibly give the person nightmares for the rest of their life.

 

He pauses for a moment.

 

Mankind: Sounds like my kind of match! You have your casket match, Kane, but beware, I am not afraid and I will do anything I have too to keep hold of this title. You may not even be breathing when I have to roll your body into that casket.

 

Bearer looks very satisfied in the ring and you can only imagine that Kane feels the same way.

 

 

Ross: Bah gawd! A casket match for the Rumble! Neither man is going to want to be placed in a closed casket.

 

Cornette: It’s going to be a fascinating match, JR. Kane certainly isn’t afraid of the casket, but whatever Mankind says I don’t think he wanted to face Kane in a match like this. The environment plays right into the challenger’s hands.

 

Ross: I disagree, Cornette. Mankind is a hardcore legend and a match where anything is legal is going to be his speciality.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Farooq vs. ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/2077/ronsimmonsas9.jpgvs. http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

 

Farooq manages to create some decent offence here, mostly due to Kama and D’lo constantly interfering at ringside though. Austin begins to fight back which gets the crowd going and out of nowhere he hits Farooq with a stunner to get the win.

 

Winner: Steve Austin

Match Rating: B

 

 

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http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/276/jerrylynnkd2.jpg

Jerry Lynn makes his way down the ramp and into the ring taking a microphone on his way.

 

Lynn: What the hell was that last week, Jarrett?! Could you have found anymore ways to cheat you way to victory? I know you’re no match for me and last week just proved it as you couldn’t put me away fairly. Get your ass out here and accept a rematch for next week! Better yet, just get out here and we’ll go right now!

 

Lynn looks focused and ready in the ring as he awaits Jarrett.

 

 

http://i31.tinypic.com/34e6g0k.jpg

Jarrett’s music hits and he come out through the curtain, but just stays on the ramp.

 

Lynn: I said get your ass down to this ring!

 

Jarrett: You don’t tell me what to do, Lynn. You have no power over me. You’re the most meaningless Champion in the company. Who cares about the Light Heavyweight division? It’s only there so people like you have a chance to win a title now and again. The fact that your Champion says a hell of a lot about the quality of that division.

 

Lynn: Quit with the trash talk, Jarrett and let’s just settle this in the ring.

 

Jarrett: As much as that offer appeals to me, no thanks, Lynn. I’m saving myself for the Rumble and there is no reason why I should have to face you again. There’s no way I’m going to be stuck in the midcard with wrestlers like you when I should be main eventing every single show. I gain nothing out of beating you again except maybe a little satisfaction.

 

Lynn: Jarrett you son of a bitch. You’re never going to be main eventing anything. You’re not in my league or anybody else’s in the WWF for that matter.

 

Jarrett: Shut up, Lynn. I’m not wrestling you and that’s final.

 

Lynn: Well then I guess I’ll see you in the Rumble match!

 

Jarrett looks shocked as he obviously didn’t think of this possibility.

 

Lynn: What’s wrong Jarrett, scared of meeting me in the ring? I can’t wait to ruin your Rumble chances. To be honest, that’ll be even better than beating you in a singles match.

 

Jarrett looks lost for words and is close to exploding as the show cuts for commercial.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Steve Williams vs. Goldust

http://i29.tinypic.com/nquwyr.jpgvs.http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/7189/goldustud3.jpg

 

Williams faces a tough test here especially as Goldust comes out accompanied by a beautiful woman names Sunny who he calls his manager. She cheers him on at ringside which causes a big difference in Goldust’s performance as he stops the momentum of Williams with the final cut.

 

Winner: Goldust

Match Rating: D-

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

We head backstage where Shawn Michaels and Triple H are getting ready for their tag match.

 

Michaels: Great plan was that, Hunter. You just love toying with Owen don’t you?

 

Triple H: Ha, it’s just too easy.

 

Michaels: I can’t wait to see his face at the Rumble; it’s going to be a picture. Oh, that reminds me. You got them snaps of our trip down to Florida last month?

 

Triple H: I lost the cameras.

 

Michaels: Aw man. How’d you managed that? That’s really bummed me out. I was looking forward to seeing some of those shots of me on the beach aswell. I looked perfect that weekend. Girls were just throwing themselves at me.

 

Triple H: I wondered why I didn’t see much of you, Shawn.

 

Michaels: Yeah, I had six of them up in my room on the Saturday. Quite a fun afternoon that was.

 

Triple H: I’ll bet, mate.

 

Michaels: We better get down to the ring anyway. Owen's ass can’t kick itself.

 

Triple H: Right behind you. I can’t believe we have to team with Mero tonight. I’d have rather them put Chyna in with us. At least we know she’d be able to beat Owen.

 

 

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Marc Mero, Triple H and Shawn Michaels vs. Ken Shamrock, Owen Hart and Mankind

http://i25.tinypic.com/1zpmalw.jpghttp://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpghttp://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpgvs.http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/8081/kenshamrockxt7.jpghttp://img162.imageshack.us/img162/2623/owenhartwa7.jpghttp://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpg

 

Lots of back and forth action here as the two competitors in the ring were changed a lot. We saw all sorts of rivalries getting it with Shamrock/Mero, Mankind/Michaels and even Michaels/Owen. The only one we didn’t see was Triple H/Owen because whenever they were tagged in together Triple H always handed over to someone else which frustrated Owen every time. Triple H seems to enjoy watching Owen flipping out though. Michaels hit a cheap shot on Mankind which prompted Owen to try and take on both Degeneration X members, but to no avail. Mero capitalised on this chance and scored a pin over the Intercontinental Champion in the ring.

 

Winner: Mero, HHH and Michaels

Match Rating: B-

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Raw Rating: C+

Nitro Rating: B-

 

Raw TV Rating: 4.00

Nitro TV Rating: 6.10

[totti]

WWF Raw is War Preview

 

Great Sasuke vs. Tajiri

 

Royal Rumble Qualifier

'The Lethal Weapon' Steve Blackman vs. Bradshaw vs. Bob Holly vs. Kurrgan

 

The Darkside vs. Super Loco and Taka Michinoku

 

Jeff Jarrett and Triple H vs. Jerry Lynn and Owen Hart

 

Non Title Match

Kane w. Paul Bearer vs. 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' Ken Shamrock

 

Plus,

 

Two weeks ago Kane attacked Shamrock in the ring while going after Mankind so Shamrock is given a chance for some revenge this week. Surely the only people this match is benefiting are Mankind and Marc Mero who face each men in important title matches just six days after.

 

Austin, again, embarrassed Vince last week and possibly broke up his long marriage which is sure to infuriate the owner even more. Austin says that he’ll go even further if his career threatening match at The Rumble isn’t retracted. Will Vince risk even more punishment at the hands of his nemesis in the hope that this will be his final ever Raw.

 

Degeneration X completely outsmarted Owen last week drawing him out with a few insults knowing that his friends wouldn’t be there to help him out. Bret has told Michaels that he’ll get his revenge in the ring at the Rumble, but after they beat down a helpless Owen last week he might not be able to hide his anger any longer.

 

Jerry Lynn demanded a rematch against Jarrett last week after he clearly cheated for the win two weeks ago. Jarrett straight up refused the proposal stating that he wanted to be main eventing shows. Then Lynn had an idea of meeting Jarrett in the Rumble match which seemed to shock Jarrett and make Lynn think that Jarrett was actually scared of facing him in the ring. These two meet in tag action this week.

[Destiny]

Great Sasuke vs. Tajiri

Two great talents here but I'm hoping for Tajiri to get the win. Sasuke's a great wrestler but Tajiri is more marketable.

 

Royal Rumble Qualifier

'The Lethal Weapon' Steve Blackman vs. Bradshaw vs. Bob Holly vs. Kurrgan It'll most probably be Blackman but it'd be nicer for Bradshaw.

 

The Darkside vs. Super Loco and Taka Michinoku

This should certainly be an entertaining tag team match. I like Taka Michinoku but think that Darkside will get the victory in this tag match.

 

Jeff Jarrett and Triple H vs. Jerry Lynn and Owen Hart

Lynn and Owen Hart may be better wrestlers but Jarrett and Triple H are destined to be bigger stars. I see Triple H pinnins Owen Hart here.

 

Non Title Match

Kane w. Paul Bearer vs. 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' Ken Shamrock Kane can be such a huge star if you keep him dominant early.

[tristram]

Great Sasuke vs. Tajiri

 

Royal Rumble Qualifier

'The Lethal Weapon' Steve Blackman vs. Bradshaw vs. Bob Holly vs. Kurrgan

 

The Darkside vs. Super Loco and Taka Michinoku

 

Jeff Jarrett and Triple H vs. Jerry Lynn and Owen Hart

 

Non Title Match

Kane w. Paul Bearer vs. 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' Ken Shamrock

[totti]

WWF Raw is War

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/6358/rawiswarlogobq0.jpg

 

 

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8448/jimrossdm5.jpghttp://img529.imageshack.us/img529/5528/jimcornetteaf0.jpg

 

Ross: Hello folks and welcome to of Raw is War. We’re just six days after from the Royal Rumble so expect one hell of a show tonight.

 

Cornette: I can’t wait for the Rumble, JR to see what DX have in store for us. You know it’s going to be something big.

 

Ross: What about tonight though which could possibly be Stone Colds final ever Raw. I’m sure he’ll give us a memory we will never forget.

 

Cornette: There is no way after the past two weeks that Vince will let him get his way again. Simply no way.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

We head backstage where we see Triple H storming down the corridor clearly not happy about something. He stops outside an office entitled ‘Vince McMahon’ before nearly detaching the door upon entering.

 

Vince: What the hell is this?!

 

Triple H: What’s all this I hear about being in a match tonight?

 

Vince: None of my business, Hunter. Now get out of here!

 

Triple H: I’m not going anywhere until my match is taken off the card or at least Owen is taken out of it.

 

Vince: Dammit, Hunter! I told you it isn’t my business. Go take it up with Slaughter. If you haven’t noticed for the past two weeks Austin has been causing mayhem and I need to stop him from doing so tonight. Now leave before I call security!

 

Triple H: I will leave and I’ll go straight down to Slaughter office. I clearly stated that I was going to be rested before the Rumble.

 

Triple H storms out of the bosses’ office and looks to be heading down to see the Commissioner.

 

 

Ross: There’s no way he’ll be able to change the Commissioners mind. It’s his own fault for the trick he played on Owen last week.

 

Cornette: He shouldn’t have to be wrestling tonight with the Rumble so close. Have you not heard about DX’s plan? I’m sure they need people like Triple H in top condition.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Great Sasuke vs. Tajiri

http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8465/greatsasukeqs4.jpgvs.http://i28.tinypic.com/izuzav.jpg

 

Sasuke goes for a more technical approach here than the usual all out fast paced one we’re used to seeing. He uses a good ground game on Tajiri showing some brilliant wrestling ranging from submissions to suplexes. He obviously wants to slow down the wrestling of Tajiri and his game plan works when he utilizes a Michinoku Driver and gets the pinfall. An impressive performance from Sasuke showing that he has some tremendous wrestling ability.

 

Winner: Great Sasuke

Match Rating: E+

 

 

Ross: Sasuke impressing yet again tonight, but with a different style of wrestling. That man can do it all and would prove a great challenger to anybody here in the company.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

We go backstage again as Triple H is about to nearly knock another door down. This time it’s the door of the WWF Commissioner, Sgt. Slaughter.

 

Triple H: Why are you trying to screw with me?

 

Slaughter: It’s not your decision, Hunter. I’m the commissioner and I make the matches. You don’t like it then carry on the way you are, but I can assure you there will be consequences.

 

Triple H: You can’t touch me.

 

Slaughter: Try me. You and your DX buddies aren’t going to be running this from now on.

 

Triple H: We’ll see after the Rumble then won’t we. You have no idea what we have been planning behind your back.

 

Slaughter: It’s not going to work whatever it is.

 

Triple H: It already has!

 

With that Triple H leaves slamming the door behind him which shows that he didn’t get what he wanted.

 

 

Ross: What are DX planning for the Rumble?

 

Cornette: It’s gotta be something big, JR. You know DX and they don’t deal in anything but big. Slaughter better watch the way he talks to Triple H aswell. If he wants to keep his job then he needs to show stars like him more respect.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Royal Rumble Qualifier

'The Lethal Weapon' Steve Blackman vs. Bradshaw vs. Bob Holly vs. Kurrgan

http://i30.tinypic.com/2m601dw.jpgvs.http://i32.tinypic.com/20hlbte.jpgvs.http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/4082/bobhowardka3.jpgvs.http://i25.tinypic.com/mhekph.jpg

 

Holly and Kurrgan were eliminated rather quickly, Holly after a sickening clothesline from Bradshaw who came out accompanied by his tag team partner Blackjack Windham. Bradshaw and Blackman were left to fight it out to the surprise of no one. Bradshaw was the most impressive with his partner willing him on from ringside and got the pinfall after another nasty clothesline from hell.

 

Winner: Bradshaw

Match Rating: D+

 

 

After the match Windham takes up a microphone and begins to speak.

 

Windham: Two weeks ago we lost a tag match to The Darkside and I realised then it was time to hang up the boots. It was definitely through fault of my own that we lost then, so I went to Bradshaw and told him The New Blackjacks needed to split up and Bradshaw, because he’s such a talented wrestler, should focus on a singles career. Being the brilliant man he is he didn’t want me to fall into oblivion and asked if I’d accompany him to his matches as his manager. So here we are, no more tag team, just one tough ass wrestler in Bradshaw who has a big future in this business and I shall make sure it happens.

 

 

Ross: Bradshaw has always had superstar quality about him and now hes gone down the path of singles wrestler with the tutorage of Barry Windham I think we can expect great things.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpghttp://img529.imageshack.us/img529/899/paulbearerui8.jpg

Paul Bearer leads his client, Kane, out from the back and into the ring. He picks up a microphone and begins to talk.

 

Bearer: Mankind, by signing to face Kane in a casket match for your World Heavyweight Championship you were practically signing that Championship away. You say you thrive on pain. Well, you have obviously never felt the kind of pain that Kane can inflict on people. You’ve seen his path of destruction recently and we have taken extra measures to ensure that the one person who can stop his destruction is nowhere to be seen.

 

Bearer then points up to the titantron which shows an open casket in a very dark and eyrie room. As the camera moves closer a figure can be seen in the casket. The closer the camera gets the easier it becomes to see the identity of the figure who is Mankind. The crowd gasp in horror at the disturbing sight of their Champion, unconscious, in an open casket.

 

 

Ross: Bah Gawd! What has Kane done to Mankind?!

 

 

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpg

The crowd’s fears are soon subsided as Mankind’s music hits and he walks out from the back looking very angry.

 

Mankind: Kane. What have you done? Why did you have to take it this far? You’ve disturbed me and most importantly my family. You know my kids would be watching at home and will probably be having nightmares about this very moment tonight. Kane, you’ve made this personal. I was happy knowing that all I had to do was to put you in that casket to win this match, but now that wouldn’t satisfy me. Now, Kane, you don’t want to know what I’ll do to you at the Royal Rumble.

 

Mankind drops his microphone and slides into the ring looking to go toe to toe with Kane. He swings a right hand at Kane, but Kane merely shakes it off and unleashes one hell of an uppercut which sends Mankind onto his back. Mankind decides that the best thing to do is to settle this at the Rumble and heads down the ramp leaving Kane looking dominant in the ring.

 

 

Ross: It looks like Kane has upped the stakes in this match. Mankind not only wants to retain his title, but also wants to physically punish Kane.

 

Cornette: I don’t know how he’s going to do that, JR. Kane got the better of Mankind in the ring tonight.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

The Darkside vs. Super Loco and Taka Michinoku

http://i28.tinypic.com/2d1s615.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qd31xy.jpgw.http://i28.tinypic.com/erelb4.jpgvs.http://i31.tinypic.com/2604gi0.jpghttp://img150.imageshack.us/img150/4974/takamichinokucf2.jpg

 

The Darkside dominated the two Light Heavyweights with their superior strength. The two small men tagged well together, but never really looked like winning except for a few quick rollups which caught Gangrel and Vampiro by surprise. They continued their impressive run after Vampiro pinned Loco.

 

Winners: The Darkside

Match Rating: D

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/9440/vincemcmahonea6.jpg

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/2077/ronsimmonsas9.jpghttp://i27.tinypic.com/2zj98og.jpghttp://img507.imageshack.us/img507/7555/kamazy1.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qn9rw6.jpg

Vince McMahon makes his way to the ring looking rather scared accompanied by the whole of the Nation of Domination.

 

Vince: Austin, I’m tired of waiting. Get your ass out here and do what your gonna do because I am not withdrawing this match dammit!

 

 

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpg

Austin comes out from the back wielding a metal baseball bat which immediately makes Vince gasp. The Nation stand in front of Vince providing some muscle.

 

Austin: Nation, if you want me to pummel in your brains then stay right where you are, but I suggest you get your asses out of the ring and leave me and this sorry son of a b***h in the ring.

 

Vince laughs knowing that The Nation wouldn’t leave him to me beaten by Austin, but it looks like they don’t want anything to do with the Rattlesnake and his baseball bat and climb out of the ring, down the steps and walk down the ramp into the back. Vince shouts for them to get back, but they don’t seem to listen and carry on walking.

 

A sickening smile grows on the face of Austin as he realises it’s him and a baseball bat versus Vince. Vince is now looking very, very worried. Austin enters the ring as Vince attempts to escape, but Austin grabs him by the top and hauls him back into the ring. He then pulls out some handcuffs from his pocket and holds them up to the crowd.

 

Austin: If you want to see Vince handcuffed to these ropes gimme a hell yeah?!

 

Hell Yeah!!!

 

Vince begins to plead with Austin, but he won’t listen as he attaches his bosses arm to the ropes and swings the bat back as if hes getting ready for a pitch. He swings the bat straight into Vince’s midsection causing his boss to yelp out in agony which doesn’t stop Austin from doing the same again. He then takes the bat and drops it over Vince’s skull a few times causing the owner to bleed profusely and flop like a rag doll apparently losing consciousness. Austin starts talking trash to his boss and then leaves the ring for what could possibly be the last time.

 

 

Ross: Austin is one of a kind, Cornette. If it is his final match at the Rumble he’s certainly given the fans some enjoyment over the past three weeks. Some moments that they’ll never forget. I know I won’t forget them.

 

Cornette: Why would I want to remember anything Austin has done with this company? He’s never even won World Title which means the company will certainly no miss him.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Jeff Jarrett and Triple H vs. Jerry Lynn and Owen Hart

http://i31.tinypic.com/34e6g0k.jpghttp://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpgvs.http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/276/jerrylynnkd2.jpghttp://img162.imageshack.us/img162/2623/owenhartwa7.jpg

 

Just like last week Triple H managed to frustrate Owen by never actually meeting him in the ring in this match. He always tagged out to Jarrett when he got the chance. He’ll have nowhere to run in the Rumble match though. Towards the end of the match Triple H decided he’d had enough and refused the tag of Jarrett as he walked into the back obviously wanting to rest for the Rumble. Hart then locked in the sharpshooter looking confused and it didn’t take Jarrett too long to tap. Hart and Lynn then celebrated together in the ring afterwards for the fans.

 

Winners: Jerry Lynn and Owen Hart

Match Rating: C

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

We cut for commercial and as we return we go backstage where Jarrett is arguing with Triple H about events moments ago.

 

Jarrett: What the hell was that?

 

Triple H: Shut up, Jeff. You’re lucky I tagged with you at all. Just get out of my way.

 

Jarrett steps in front of him and receives a look from Triple H as if hes out of his mind.

 

Jarrett: No, Hunter. You think your so great being part of DX and all, but you’re looking at the future of this wrestling company and you should treat him with more respect!

 

Triple H: Just don’t get started, Jeff. You will not enjoy what happens to you.

 

The rest of Degeneration X step into the picture.

 

Michaels: You got a problem with Hunter, Jeff?

 

Jarrett: N.n..oo.

 

Michaels: Good because if you have a problem with Hunter then you got a problem with us too. Understand?

 

Jarrett: Yep, no problems. I’ll just be on my way.

 

Jarrett stumbles out of the picture.

 

Michaels: Go get ready, Hunter. We’re going out after this match.

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Non Title Match

Kane w. Paul Bearer vs. 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' Ken Shamrock

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpgw.http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/899/paulbearerui8.jpgvs.http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/8081/kenshamrockxt7.jpg

 

Shamrock provides a big obstacle for the dominant Kane here showing some good offence on occasion. He looked like he had the match won at one point when he locked in the ankle lock, but Kane managed to power his way out. He beat Shamrock after a big chokeslam giving Mankind something more to worry about at the Rumble.

 

Winner: Kane

Match Rating: B

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/7299/shawnmichaelsuh8.jpghttp://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7406/tripleh1998mt7.jpg

http://i29.tinypic.com/wbq592.jpghttp://img175.imageshack.us/img175/8372/billygunn19982gk3.jpghttp://img80.imageshack.us/img80/570/jessejames1998dc9.jpg

It looks like the show isn’t finished yet as the whole of Degeneration comes down to the ring. Michaels is milking every minute of their booing although a few girls at ringside seem to be shouting for him so he goes to acknowledge them, posing with them as one girl takes a photo. I wonder how this will go down with Vince in the back as this isn’t the first time he’s ever broken kayfabe. Triple H seems to have learnt his lesson though and continues playing the heel.

 

Michaels: Being the generous man that I am I decided that the last thing you should see on Raw should be the last thing you should see at the Rumble. I am your Rumble Champion, Shawn Michaels!

 

Triple H walks around the ring clapping trying to get the fans cheering for Shawn while the remaining three members of DX bow down at their leader’s feet. Michaels smile is wiped clean off his face though as…

 

 

http://i29.tinypic.com/vfk2gp.jpghttp://img162.imageshack.us/img162/2623/owenhartwa7.jpg

http://i27.tinypic.com/1zmkuhl.jpghttp://i31.tinypic.com/125pbox.jpg

The whole Hart Foundation run in from the back.

 

Owen, Bulldog and Niedhart immediately slide into the ring taking out their respective enemies as Chyna tries to help out her buddies as much as she can, but the Hart Foundation are intent on brutalizing DX and seem to be gaining the upper hand. Bret follows his men into the ring looking for Michaels who wasted little time and slid out to ringside. He scampered around the ring and up the ramp leaving no time for Bret to do anything. Bret exits the ring and stares up the ramp at his biggest nemesis who has a distinct look of fear attached to his face. The fans are left with the thought of Bret and Shawn finally meeting in the ring in six days time as the seven members in the ring continue to brawl.

 

 

Ross: Bah Gawd! In just six days time Bret is going to finally get his hands on Shawn in that Rumble match. It’s going to be huge folks! Don’t forget to tune in!

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Raw Rating: B

Nitro Rating: C

 

Raw TV Rating: 4.10

Nitro TV Rating: 5.91

[totti]

WWF Royal Rumble Preview

http://i31.tinypic.com/2sala2x.jpg

 

WWF Tag Team Championship

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation (Bulldog and Niedhart)

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/570/jessejames1998dc9.jpghttp://img175.imageshack.us/img175/8372/billygunn19982gk3.jpgvs.http://i27.tinypic.com/1zmkuhl.jpghttp://i31.tinypic.com/125pbox.jpg

 

The Outlaws scored a tainted win over Bulldog and Niedhart at the last pay per view so Slaughter has given them another shot at the gold. They need to watch out for the dirty tactics of the Outlaws this time though which will decide whether they can walk out with the straps around their waists.

 

WWF Intercontinental Championship

‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock © vs. Marc Mero w. Sable

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/8081/kenshamrockxt7.jpgvs.http://i25.tinypic.com/1zpmalw.jpgw.http://i28.tinypic.com/spx9o5.jpg

 

A few weeks ago Mero won a battle royal to be named the no.1 contender. He tried to convince everyone that he was a changed man and it was all down to his beautiful wife, Sable. She will be at ringside cheering her husband on which could distract the Champion if he isn’t careful. Mero has to be weary of one thing at all times though. The ankle lock.

 

4 on 1 No DQ Handicap Match (If Austin loses he is fired)

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin vs. The Nation of Domination

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/634/steveaustingh1.jpgvs.http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/2077/ronsimmonsas9.jpghttp://i27.tinypic.com/2zj98og.jpghttp://img507.imageshack.us/img507/7555/kamazy1.jpghttp://i30.tinypic.com/2qn9rw6.jpg

 

After McMahon helped Kane defeated Austin at In Your House he thought Austin would be too embarrassed to show up on RAW, but he was wrong. Austin ran in kicking ass and taking names like only he can which prompted McMahon to make this impossible career ending match. If there was one man who could do it then it would be Stone Cold, but it’s against four men who don’t even have to play by the rules. Does he have any chance at all?

 

 

Casket Match for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship

Mankind © vs. Kane w. Paul Bearer

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2192/mankind1998rs8.jpgvs.http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/189/kanemask1998vn6.jpgw.http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/899/paulbearerui8.jpg

 

Kane made this personal on RAW this week by showing the crowd a casket containing the lifeless body of Mankind, but it was then found out to be a dummy. Mankind said he was messing with people’s lives and only had an eye for hurting Kane now. Both men will want to cause some damage here. Careers will definitely be shortened and possibly ended as one man will have to decapitate their opponent so much that they can put his lifeless body into a casket.

 

 

Royal Rumble Match (Four Mystery Entrants)

Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart, Owen Hart, ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels, Triple H, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, Rocky Maivia, ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock, Jeff Jarrett, Farooq, Roaddog, Billy Gunn, Jim Niedhart, British Bulldog, Animal , Hawk, Vader, Goldust, Marc Mero, Bradshaw, Jerry Lynn, Great Sasuke, D’lo Brown, Kama Mustafa, Vampiro, Steve Williams, Gangrel, ???, ???, ???, ???

 

It only happens once a year and is one of the most unique match types in all of Professional Wrestling as 30 men battle it out for a chance to Main Event Wrestlemania and for a shot at the WWF Heavyweight Championship. Degeneration X see this as an easy way to get a title shot with Slaughter not looking likely to grant them any favors. They have talked for the past weeks about ‘a big plan’ they have to win this match, but the Hart Foundation see this as a chance at revenge especially Bret Hart who has waited two months to get his hands on Shawn Michaels after the incident at Survivor Series. They will be looking to do whatever they can to thwart DX’s plans and crown Owen Hart as the new Rumble Champion to firmly cement his place at the top. There is also the Stone Cold factor who will be in the match if he manages to find a way past the whole Nation tonight. Surely he would be one of the favourites?

 

 

Quick Picks

 

WWF Tag Team Championship

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation (Bulldog and Niedhart)

 

WWF Intercontinental Championship

‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock © vs. Marc Mero w. Sable

 

4 on 1 No DQ Handicap Match (If Austin loses he is fired)

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin vs. The Nation of Domination

 

Casket Match for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship

Mankind © vs. Kane w. Paul Bearer

 

Royal Rumble Match (Four Mystery Entrants)

Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart, Owen Hart, ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels, Triple H, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, Rocky Maivia, ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock, Jeff Jarrett, Farooq, Roaddog, Billy Gunn, Jim Niedhart, British Bulldog, Animal , Hawk, Vader, Goldust, Marc Mero, Bradshaw, Jerry Lynn, Great Sasuke, D’lo Brown, Kama Mustafa, Vampiro, Steve Williams, Gangrel, ???, ???, ???, ???

[zackufc]

Epicness!!! I am looking forward to The Rumble!!!

[Destiny]

WWF Tag Team Championship

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation (Bulldog and Niedhart)

I'd keep the titles with the Outlaws for the time being. Bulldog and Neidhart can maybe get another title shot at Wrestlemania though.

 

WWF Intercontinental Championship

‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock © vs. Marc Mero w. Sable

This one could go either way but my money's on Shamrock. I'd keep the title on him for a good few months before dropping the title to another guy

 

4 on 1 No DQ Handicap Match (If Austin loses he is fired)

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin vs. The Nation of Domination

Austin's not going to get fired. I'm a big fan of the Nation of Domination, and this will be close towards the end, but Austin will probably keep his job

 

Casket Match for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship

Mankind © vs. Kane w. Paul Bearer

Mankind had a good run with the title but in a Casket match Kane should get the victory and go on to defend the belt in the main event of Mania.

 

Royal Rumble Match (Four Mystery Entrants)

Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart, Owen Hart, ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels, Triple H, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, Rocky Maivia, ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock, Jeff Jarrett, Farooq, Roaddog, Billy Gunn, Jim Niedhart, British Bulldog, Animal , Hawk, Vader, Goldust, Marc Mero, Bradshaw, Jerry Lynn, Great Sasuke, D’lo Brown, Kama Mustafa, Vampiro, Steve Williams, Gangrel, ???, ???, ???, ???

I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that one of the surprises will be Chris Jericho, and that he'll get the victory in his WWF debut, a big shock.

[zackufc]

Quick Picks

 

WWF Tag Team Championship

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation (Bulldog and Niedhart)

 

WWF Intercontinental Championship

‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock © vs. Marc Mero w. Sable

 

4 on 1 No DQ Handicap Match (If Austin loses he is fired)

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin vs. The Nation of Domination

 

Casket Match for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship

Mankind © vs. Kane w. Paul Bearer

 

Royal Rumble Match (Four Mystery Entrants)

Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart, Owen Hart, ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels, Triple H, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, Rocky Maivia, ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock, Jeff Jarrett, Farooq, Roaddog, Billy Gunn, Jim Niedhart, British Bulldog, Animal , Hawk, Vader, Goldust, Marc Mero, Bradshaw, Jerry Lynn, Great Sasuke, D’lo Brown, Kama Mustafa, Vampiro, Steve Williams, Gangrel, ???, ???, ???, ???

[tristram]

WWF Tag Team Championship

New Age Outlaws © vs. The New Hart Foundation (Bulldog and Niedhart) - a heel win to set the tone

 

WWF Intercontinental Championship

‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock © vs. Marc Mero w. Sable - I am unabashed a Ken Shamrock fan, good look, and tough as all hell

 

4 on 1 No DQ Handicap Match (If Austin loses he is fired)

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin vs. The Nation of Domination - it'd be interesting if Stone Cold was fired, but I think he needs to be the centre of the show WWF is built around, he's just too good

 

Casket Match for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship

Mankind © vs. Kane w. Paul Bearer - I'm thinking there'll be brotherly involvement against Kane for some reason

 

Royal Rumble Match (Four Mystery Entrants)

Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart, Owen Hart, ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels, Triple H, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, Rocky Maivia, ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock, Jeff Jarrett, Farooq, Roaddog, Billy Gunn, Jim Niedhart, British Bulldog, Animal , Hawk, Vader, Goldust, Marc Mero, Bradshaw, Jerry Lynn, Great Sasuke, D’lo Brown, Kama Mustafa, Vampiro, Steve Williams, Gangrel, ???, ???, ???, ??? - mystery man usually screams to me 'winner', it says to me big name, who's out there that would come to the WWF at this stage? A DDP type of character perhaps? I'm going Eddie Guerrero as the winner, TBH it's probably this piece of booking where I have no friggen idea and there's some great rumours floating around that'd get me interested in buying a WWF PPV, so cudos on that