TCW: The Locker-Room of Doom [8RoW]

Deamon · March 1, 2013

ALL ACTION CHAMPIONSHIP

Flying Jimmy Fox © vs. Edd Stone w/Vita (and co)

Joey Minnesota vs. Rick Law

TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

Texas Buffalo w/Floyd Goldworthy © vs. The New Wave w/Agent

Roger Cage w/Winston vs. Troy Tornado

INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Aaron Andrews © vs. Jay Chord

Ricky Dale Johnsonvs. Bryan Vessey

Koshiro Ino vs. Tommy Cornell

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh © vs. Rocky Golden

3rdStringPG · March 1, 2013

ALL ACTION CHAMPIONSHIP

Flying Jimmy Fox © vs. Edd Stone w/Vita (and co)

Joey Minnesota vs. Rick Law

TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

Texas Buffalo w/Floyd Goldworthy © vs. The New Wave w/Agent

Roger Cage w/Winston vs. Troy Tornado

INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Aaron Andrews © vs. Jay Chord

Ricky Dale Johnson vs. Bryan Vessey

Koshiro Ino vs. Tommy Cornell

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh © vs. Rocky Golden

Shadowsong · March 1, 2013

ALL ACTION CHAMPIONSHIP

Flying Jimmy Fox © vs. Edd Stone w/Vita (and co)

Edd is a superior talent. I see Flying Jimmy Foxx as a jobber at best.

Joey Minnesota vs. Rick Law

He's the better wrestler, and assuming all my other predictions come out right... the babyface side will need a victory.

TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

Texas Buffalo w/Floyd Goldworthy © vs. The New Wave w/Agent

They're the best tag team in TCW (you could make a case for the machines but they're old). Can't go wrong putting the belts on them.

Roger Cage w/Winston vs. Troy Tornado

Cage has a bright future but Troy Tornado is one of the top guys in TCW so he should win here.

INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Aaron Andrews © vs. Jay Chord

Jay Chord is on the rise.

Ricky Dale Johnson vs. Bryan Vessey

I think Wolf will retain the title, so he needs a face challenger.

Koshiro Ino vs. Tommy Cornell

Ino is good, but Cornell is the best wrestler in the world. He should win here unless you're looking to give Ino a big boost.

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh © vs. Rocky Golden

I can see Rocky Golden winning the title in the future but I don't think he has the wrestling ability be able to main event PPVs unless he has a top opponent, while Wolf Hawkins can go out and have a good match with anyone. Golden needs to improve a bit more first.

Blake Trask · March 12, 2013

And here is my self-kick-up-the-butt show warning.

24 hours for the show. Hopefully less than.

Blake Trask · March 13, 2013

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TCW Presents...

Malice In Wonderland

Nevada State Armoury (South West)

Attendance: 29,904

Broadcast Live on Pay-Per-View (1.80)

Commentary:

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Jason Azaria - Kyle Rhodes - Shawn Doakes

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

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The world champion strolls confidently to the ring, belt around his waist, microphone in his hand.

"Rocky... Rocky Rocky... Rocky. We really need to stop meeting like this. How many times is it now? Well... it doesn't matter. Fact is, I took your belt off you, and that means that your time in the sun is finished. You aren't gonna fly now. Honestly, you might as well just disappear.

Ever since I brought this title back to where it rightfully belongs - around the waist of a wrestler, not some kind of 'man of the people', you've been trying so damn hard to upstage me, to get it back. And you know what? It's just not going to work. Not today, not last month, and not next month, if you somehow manage to brown-nose your way into another shot after I beat you tonight.

You claim to be this big hero, this champion of all that's good and right, you call us out for breaking the rules, say that I don't play fair, that me and Tommy use the numbers game. Well how about you - Mr. I-smack-folks-in-the-nuts?"

There's a big pop from the crowd, starting up a 'Rocky Road! Rocky Road!' chant. Hawkins doesn't look happy.

"And when YOU do it, they think it's awesome! You're a damn fraud Rocky, and you can call in all the help that you want. Fact is, I have Tommy Cornell at my back and Brooke at my side. I learned from the best, and I became the best. So how about you-"

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The challenger appears at the top of the ramp.

"Gee Wolf, never thought I'd find someone who likes the sound of their own voice more than Tommy does. You STILL going on about all this?"

Rocky raises a huge hand. "No no, stop there. You're gonna get like, all indignant and spluttery on me, and your self-righteous act was funny the first time, but now... it's starting to get real old. So for once, you're gonna shut up and listen.

"See Wolf, I wish I could like you - I seriously do. We're both coming into the top of our games, we're at the top, we've got the skills to hang there... I could feel a sort've competitive rivalry there, you know? Except... no, cause you've gotta be a censored-for-the-innocent.

I dunno if I can blame you Wolf... the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, and looking at the snake that trained you... I can't say it's a surprise you turned out rotten, too. I can't blame you... but I can't forgive you for it, either.

So I sincerely - honestly and truly wish I could come out here, shake your hand, and wish you good luck. But nope. I came out to stop you talking. It was giving the boys in the back a headache.

I'm gonna kick your ass."

Rocky flashes that grin of his and departs, leaving Wolf absolutely fuming... and incidentally out of time for the rest of his promo.

B+

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ALL ACTION CHAMPIONSHIP

Flying Jimmy Foxx © vs. Edd Stone w/Vita & the Huggins twins

Naturally, Edd's veritable hoard of backup receives no small mention from the commentary team, particularly given the Animals' proclivity to play the numbers and interference game. Foxx's corner, by comparison, looks downright lonely, and the champion is constantly hesitating, constantly glancing over to the ringside presence. After a while of this, of Foxx seeming to second guess himself, think and rethink each time he goes near that side of the ring, Rhodes makes an astute call.

"Maybe they're not here to interfere, maybe they're just trying to get into Foxx's head."

"And succeeding!"

And more and more that seems like it must be the case, with Edd the clear front-runner - up until he goes for a elaborate flying attack that looks like it must've been attempting to spin a heel into Foxx's head... and the champ ducks it, causing Edd to hang himself up on the ropes! Foxx uses the adjacent ropes as a springboard - dropkick! Edd goes flying to the outside, wiping out not only Freddy but Vita too! Laura goes ballistic, railing at Foxx - and then the official, whilst Foxx, suddenly all business, rolls Edd back into the ring; drops him again with a standing enzuigiri... The champ looks to the turnbuckle, thinking Flying Foxx - No! Laura's on the apron!

Doakes sees it first.

"Look! Under the ring!"

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"Is he the 'secret weapon' we've been hearing about?"

If he is, or if he isn't, the fact of the matter is that the unknown man hops up behind Foxx and gives him a good shove, causing him to crash and burn in the ring. Laura, all of a sudden, has no further objections, and Edd pops up to his feet, measures Foxx... IMPALER DDT - PARTY'S OVER! It's all she wrote!

Edd is handed the belt and proceeds to celebrate like he's won not only the Olympics but the Super Bowl and Stanley Cup. He looks, for a moment, like he's going to try crowd surfing, but thinks better of it. Instead - one arm being raised by the interfering party, the other by Vita, as Laura checks on a recovering Freddy... the five of them back their way up the ramp.

Edd Stone defeated Flying Jimmy Foxx
Grade: D+
Edd Stone wins the All Action championship

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We cut... well, presumably we cut backstage, but with the canvas adorning the walls, the table and map in the centre of the room, and the military paraphernalia laying around, it looks more like a command tent. The New Wave are hunched over the table, studying notes, Agent is the opposite side of it, pacing back and forth. Doakes, on the ball (or at least, fed a line), immediately dubs the set up 'the war room'.

Agent stops pacing, turns.

"Guide. Buffalo analysis."

Guide straightens up and clears his throat, before, in a clipped, professional tone. "Power and size are the bogeys. Hits hard - faster than he looks. However, lacks agility, stamina, finesse. Stay loose, wear him down.

Agent nods. "Good. Scout. Same for Pete."

Scout looks up. "About as strong, more agile. Less experienced. Easier to bait. Use the temperament."

"Excellent."

"Ain't interruptin' anythin', am I?"

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The New Wave men rise, throw immediate salutes. Tyler chuckles.

"Heh... ain't no call for that, boys."

The hands are dropped, the Wave stand at ease. Guide glances to Agent.

"This is-"

"Eric Tyler. It's an honour."

Scout looks to the fellow ex-DaVE man.

"What brings you here?"

"Eh. Jus' checkin' up on a coupla' old boys. Been watchin' you. Got some advice, if ya care to listen. See, Buffalo's got a habit of droppin' his guardin' hand when he moves in, so what ya gotta do is..."

The trio move around Tyler, listening to his advice as we fade out.

C

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Joey Minnesota vs. Rick Law

The attitudes of the two men in this match couldn't have been more different. Minnesota looks fired up, eager. Law looks tentative, antsy. When Minnesota opens with a minute long salvo of left, rights, chops and brutal forearm shots, sending Law sagging against and then through the ropes... well, it seems that Law's trepidation may be well founded.

The corrupt lawman makes it back into the ring, shaking his head groggily, and this time, when Minnesota advances, Law manages to slingshot him into the ring post, taking advantage of his opponent's aggression. From there, battle is joined in earnest. Law hits harder, as Law always has, but he continues to look unsettled, uncomfortable. We're reminded that it was just a month ago that Law had handcuffed Minnesota to the ropes and beaten him bloody with a night stick - for all his swagger leading up to this, reprisal is obviously feared.

Blow for blow, Minnesota is just plain scoring more points, landing the bigger shots, rocking Law more... and as time wears on, the toll begins to mount up. Minnesota gets a few two counts - Law hits a huge Squad Car Slam out of nowhere, but when Minnesota gets the shoulder up, the cop seems almost... despairing. And it's easy to see why - Minnesota's on a roll, scoring again, and again - he boots Law in the gut, shifts behind him - EMPIRE SPIR- NO! Law elbows Minnesota square in the face and falling, manages to drop to the apron! Minnesota tries to shake the cobwebs out... big right hand to the face - Law grabs Minnesota's head, drops... HOT SHOT!

Joey whiplashes backwards hard enough for his head to smack the mat with an audible thump, and, looking nervously at his opponent, Law retreats up the ramp. Minnesota can't shake off the cobwebs quickly enough to give pursuit, and it's only when the referee's count hits ten and the bell rings that Minnesota's face finally dawns with the recognition of what Law's done.

He is, needless to say, less than happy.

Joey Minnesota defeated Rick Law by count out
Grade: B

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A more regular backstage area now - we see International champion Aaron Andrews working over a punching bag for thirty seconds or so, peppering it high and low with jabs, straights, hooks, throwing in the occasional side kick or knee for good measure. Shortly thereafter though, there's the sound of a phone ringing, and Andrews stops, wipes his head with the back of his arm, and picks up.

"Chance, hey. What's up? ...Huh, I see. ... Nice catch. ...Thanks man, I think I've earned some payback..."

For a short while, the one-sided conversation continues, Aaron pacing back and forth, back and forth... and then a shadow falls on the room from the hallway. Slight. Slender. Andrews pauses, frowns, looks up. The camera looks up with him.

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A woman leans on the door frame, arms folded, watching with a small smile on her face. Andrews regards her for a couple of seconds.

Finally. "Chance, I'll call you back," he kills the call. "Can I help you, miss?"

The woman slowly shakes her head, the smile never changing.

"I like to watch."

"...Right," Andrews frowns, a thought occurring to him. "Wait... hold up. Did Jay send you to spy on me?"

A raised eyebrow, a shake of the head.

"You just happened to come along to watch me - in my private training area, right before a title match? Some woman I've never seen before? I don't buy it."

"I can't force you to believe me," she leans back, tips her head to the side, before, in a sing song voice. "Good luck~"

And exits.

Andrews stares for a long few seconds after she leaves.

"...The heck was that?"

C-

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TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

Texas Buffalo © w/Floyd Goldworthy vs. The New Wave w/Agent

The challengers look focused, determined - convening in their corner, there seems to be a constant flow of information between all three members of the New Wave. The champions? Well, they just look mad, and with Floyd Goldworthy operating on his usual motormouthed form, it seems as if he's doing everything in his power to keep his clients that way.

And initially this proves to be pretty damn effective. The Wave are as clinical as always, but it's tough to fight smart when your opponents are concerned with little more than beating you up. It doesn't matter that Guide's been packing a little more muscle lately, not when you have two guys the size of Buffalo and Pete trying to ruin your day. Goldworthy calling encouragement from ringside, the beatdown is scarily systematic, and for a good five minutes, Guide is isolated completely from his corner.

Up until Buffalo moves in for the kill, astute viewers noting that his defensive hand drops, ever so slightly... and Guide strikes back with a venomous left hook that hits so hard that Buffalo sways for a moment - and actually DROPS the big man! There's a moment of stunned silence, and then the crowd go crazy as Guide staggers to his corner and finally unleashes Scout, who goes absolutely crazy, sliding into a kneeling Buffalo with a low dropkick - catching Pete with a massive spinning belly-to-belly as he rushes in - the momentum's shifted... And then Goldworthy catches the official's eye long enough for Buffalo to get his bearings, roll Scout up as he protests-

1... 2... no! Scout powers out!

From that flurry, things are a lot more even, though what grows clearer and clearer is that the difference maker is Goldworthy. He seems present whenever one of his men is in trouble, yanking Pete's foot onto the bottom rope when he gets planted with a Guided Missle, distracting Scout when he preps to set up for the Special Force, with replays suggesting that he may well have flicked a credit card of all things towards Scout's face. In the Wave's corner, Agent is dispensing consistently useful advice, but she's also not trying to intervene, and that's giving the champions a slight edge...

The Wave have Texas Buffalo in trouble - smart tag team work allows them to plant Buffalo with a double suplex, and with Pete recuperating from being tossed roughly over the top rope... glances to their positions make it clear they're thinking Wave of Mutilation. Goldworthy starts to move... and Agent is up on the apron, having stolen her way around the ring! Goldworthy looks up, and just about has time to raise her hands before the woman charges along the apron and leaps off to smash into him with a flying knee! He's out for the count - and as the Wave nail the Wave of Mutilation, and Guide goes careening into Pete with a running forearm to send him flying to the outside, the crowd's excitement is building, building...

1... 2... 3...! The Wave take home the match, and the titles!

The New Wave defeated Texas Buffalo
Grade: B-
The New Wave win the Tag Team championships

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Roger Cage w/Winston vs. Troy Tornado w/Zoe Ammis

It's a surprise to see, as the competitors make their entrance, that Troy apparently DID impress at least one person with his guitar playing last week. Ammis is dressed with the cutting edge of style and class, designer labels, the accessories... she looks more like a model than a wrestler. There's a definite swagger in Tornado's step as he strolls down to the ring with Ammis on his arm. For Cage's part, he practically has to be shepherded to the ring by Winston, as he consistently gets distracted by signs in the crowd, and offering elaborate sequences of high fives to the fans.

When he gets there though? When that bell rings? Cage smiles genially, offers Tornado his hand... get it taken so Tornado can drag him into a DDT. That gets two, and when Cage gets up, for the first time we see a frown furrowing his brow. And just about nobody in the arena who hasn't seen a NYCW expects the leaping front kick driven into Tornado's chest, dropping him. Encouraged by Winston at ringside, who in spite of being silent, seems to know just how to play off Cage's antics, Roger keeps the match... surprisingly even, considering his frequent space cadet moments and mugging for the crowd. At one point, irish whipped into the ropes, Cage hurls himself over them, landing on the apron... so he can use them to swing off and slide between Tornado's legs.

As the contest wears on, Tornado seems to get more and more frustrated, and then it finally happens... with a subtle nod to Ammis at ringside, who turns, makes a gesture to the back- Tornado goes down like he's been shot, feigning injury. Ray Johnson checks on him as Troy shakes his head, holding his knee. And...

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Winston moves to intercept the interlopers, but there's two of them and only one of him, and after he's decked, the man identified by Azaria with a "My word - that's the son of Sam Keith - Greg Keith!" stops to stomp on the masked butler, keep him down.

The other blond makes a beeline for the ring, slides underneath the bottom rope. Cage turns - and gets punched in the head! He goes down far harder than it seems he should, and the camera catches the glint of metal on the interferer's fist. Tornado 'valiantly shakes off' his injury in time to stalk Cage, and as he groggily gets to his feet... STARMAKER!

Cage is flattened, and with a hell of an assist, Tornado picks up the win.

Troy Tornado defeated Roger Cage
Grade: C+

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Rick Law is booking it through the backstage area like he has the legions of hell at his back.

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A furious Joey Minnesota probably isn't too far off that.

In hot pursuit, Minnesota's path is delayed as Law does everything he can to slow him down, tipping over tables, stacks of boxes, even throwing a backstage worker (who those in Canada may recognise as Ed Monton) into his enemy's path.

Even, as Law bursts through the door to the parking lot, Minnesota on his heels, it seems like Joey's gaining, catching...

And Law dives body length into the back of an awaiting car, which begins to move, accelerating juuuuuust quickly enough to slip through Minnesota's grasp! Joey lets out a frustrated roar as he stands, unable to give further chase.

C+

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INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Aaron Andrews © vs. Jay Chord

The Next Big Thing meets last year's Next Big Thing, who, if he is not yet a Big Thing is at least a Moderately Sized Thing. Chord is talented, nobody on commentary is disputing that, but there are a few questions about whether it was such a great plan to try and play the games with Andrews. Though he's proven susceptible to those manipulations in the past, there's one very key factor that's missing... which is that beating him up just gets him mad.

Chord tries to take advantage of that, but he lacks for a little experience, and where someone with more experience in the ring could take advantage of Andrews' flare-ups... Chord just finds himself getting punched in the face. Azaria muses that even the great Rip Chord couldn't always get one hundred percent cerebral, and whilst Jay's got a few old school, veteran tricks in his book from his dad, he just lacks for a level of ring savvy.

Not to say he has no ring savvy at all though, and when a few of the dirty tricks in Chord's playbook actually come out, Andrews' momentum is slowed, stalled. The two are... just about evenly matched, it seems, and things swing back and forth for a while. Andrews hits the Standing Hot Shot, but as is becoming the case more and more often lately, that only gets a two. Following on, Andrews just about slips through of an attempted DDT - that killer Rip Chord DDT.

Things see-saw, but it's Chord who seems to have the upper hand all the way up until Andrews slips out the back of a suplex, drops Chord with a german of his own... and nails that Flying Body Press. Chord goes down, but not satisfied, Andrews hits the ropes, Chord getting to his feet - another one! This time, he makes sure that the job is done, and the announcers are left questioning whether the champion needs to update his moveset.

Aaron Andrews defeated Jay Chord
Grade: B-
Andrews makes defence #3 of the International title

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In the Syndicate's locker room (plush and opulent, in case you were wondering), the world heavyweight champion is pacing back and forth like a caged animal. Tommy Cornell sits crossed legged, thumbing through a magazine. Marsh is working her way through a focused exercise routine. Hawkins mutters under his breath constantly, the camera picking up phrases such as 'big dumb ape' and 'who does he think he is!?'

At length, Tommy looks up.

"Wolf... you need to calm down, mate."

Wolf whirls around. "Calm down!? He disrespected me!"

"Yeah. And?"

The champion falters. "Well I... I deserve respect!"

"Wolf mate, listen... if I lost sleep over every bloke who didn't respect me, I'd've turned bleedin' nocturnal. We've got our own way of doin' things, and it's the way that don't make friends."

"Right, yeah, right..."

"What matters to you more - bein' respected, or holdin' that belt?"

Wolf's answer, almost instantaneous. "The belt."

Tommy grins. "Atta boy. Now... high time I dealt with Ino. Take what you can."

The world champion nods. "Give nothing back."

B+

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NUMBER ONE CONTENDERSHIP

Ricky Dale Johnson vs. Bryan Vessey

There's a lot on the line here. Vessey's a TCW legend without ever having held the main prize. RDJ is stretching, straining, trying to make those last vestiges in the tank run that little bit longer so he can cement that final title reign. Vessey wants - needs to prove that he can hang at the very top. For RDJ, a tilt at a Syndicate nemesis or indeed his own understudy awaits.

Also, the two of them just plain don't like each other, there's also that to consider.

It's rough, brutally so - sections of the contest looking as though they wouldn't have been out of place in Japan, let alone north America. The two of them make sure that the arena knows, in spite of them being veterans, they can still go at it hammers and tongs with the best of them, and heck... these two could well be the best in the company at this kind of thing.

The match runs long, and whilst five years ago, this would have been a classic, maybe a potential match of the year candidate, in 2013 both men have slowed down a notch, lost a step, and so it is merely good, instead. Not a bad contest by anyone's standards.

As Vessey hoists RDJ for the Vessey Driver, gets elbowed out - Southern Justice! Pin... there's a real sense of joy on the face of the new number one contender. Maybe he has that little bit more left in the tank, after all.

Ricky Dale Johnson defeated Bryan Vessey
Grade: B

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Koshiro Ino vs. Tommy Cornell

Can Koshiro Ino hack it at this level?

If this match is any indication... yes.

It's easy to look good when you're wrestling Tommy Cornell - it's easy to put on a good match with Tommy Cornell. It's, to be fair, not an absolutely incredible match, but it's amongst the best of TCW's so-called 'new era'. Ino starts this one full steam ahead, and Cornell has stretch himself to keep the pace, to stop himself from falling behind and give up the advantage. It's a contrast to Tommy's normal '100% in control' type of gameplan, and the difference is quite striking.

Even so, he's called the best wrestler in the world for a reason, and what would knock a less-talented sportsman off his feet just has him breaking a sweat. Cornell still obviously has a strategy, and it seems to centre around never allowing Ino enough space to build up that head of steam necessary for the Kobra's Bite. For his part, Ino responds with 'well, if you're going to get up close and personal, I'm just going to hit you'.

Ino's plan works better - so much so that Cornell's forced to retreat from the ring, regain his bearings. The Japanese star doesn't pursue, just soaks in the atmosphere of the crowd, motioning for Cornell to bring it on. Cornell returns, and this time around he seems to be doing the exact opposite of what he was previously, keeping his distance, watching, waiting... taking a few licks here and there, but managing to disengage each time.

And Cornell has called it - Ino gets frustrated, goes for the match-ending Kobra's Bite... Cornell takes a glancing blow - and that's enough to knock him down... but Cornell has a hand on Ino's arm, swings him around, rides the momentum... and cinches in the Guilt Trip! With nowhere to go, Ino is forced to preserve himself and tap out.

Tommy Cornell defeated Koshiro Ino
Grade: B+

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http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/WolfHawkins.jpgw/http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/BrookeMarsh.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/Events/vs7.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/RockyGolden.jpg

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Wolf Hawkins © w/Brooke Marsh vs. Rocky Golden

Power vs. Speed
Heart vs. Cunning
Conviction vs. Arrogance

And what both men have is determination, the burning desire the win, and the willingness to bend the rules a little, the champion moreso than his challenger.

As we open up, Golden is already smiling, already exuding that level of cocky confidence that only he can manage, only he can pull off. Simply, it says "I can do this. I can win here."

Atypically, it's Hawkins looking unsettled, looking as if his head is not in the game, and Golden takes advantage, having that unique combination of in-ring wherewithal and natural physical prowess to keep one step ahead of the champion with his power game. When, early on, Hawkins narrowly avoids a stunningly quick defeat when kicking out of a stalling vertical suplex, he scrambles into his corner for a pep talk from Marsh.

His head seems more in the game after that, and as the contest wears on, we start to get the feel of something old, something familiar... and it's Rhodes that puts his finger on it, with a note of affectionate nostalgia in his voice. This is like watching an old match between Tommy Cornell and Ricky Dale Johnson -and Azaria goes one step further, saying that it reminds him of calling Strong vs. Chord.

Both men get time to shine, and as the match edges past the twenty minute mark, approaches 30... it happens. Hawkins, frustrated, signals ringside. Official Sparrow, wise to the ways of the Syndicate, catches Marsh as she extracts a chair from under the ring and remonstrates with her, whilst behind him, Rocky looks up, grins...

ROCKY ROAD!

Hawkins goes down! Golden dives into the cover!

1...2...3..-

Hawkins doesn't kick out. Marsh, on the other hand, tugs Sparrow by the ankle and pulls him out of the ring, leaving the referee furious, and Golden even more so, the anger plain to see on his face. He gets sloppy as he hauls Hawkins to his feet - the champion rakes the eyes, Golden stumbles... and Hawkins has just enough room for the Full Moon Rising!

1...2...3..!

- And the numbers game has paid off again!

Wolf Hawkins defeated Rocky Golden
Grade: B
Wolf Hawkins makes defence #4 of the World Heavyweight title

Show Rating: B

Blake Trask · March 15, 2013

Prediction Standings

Shadowsong: 25/28 (+7) (Thanks for the rationale, makes things interesting)
Midnightnick: 20/28 (+6)
smwilliams: 18/22 (+5)
3rdStringPG: 17/21 (+7)
Apupunchau: 14/20
Self: 11/13
d_w_w: 11/13
Jingo: 10/13
MichiganHero: 8/7 
Deamon: 8/8 (nice job!)
Shawn_waters: 6/8 (and welcome!)
Timber: 6/7
Psycho Sam: 5/8 (welcome!)
Truth: 5/6
Jaded: 5/6
PhantomStranger: 4/6

Nice to see that, whilst most people got most matches right, there was a little bit of variance either way on which matches were called differently.

All Action was, given my history with Edd, probably the easiest one altogether. I don't like or rate Foxx very much at all so... yeah.

Good spread in the upper card matches, which I feel is largely as it should be. Ino's not quite got enough build to go over Tommy yet and whilst I like Rocky, putting the belt on him over Wolf wouldn't be a great call - not inside the first month, anyway. Needs some stats to improve first. Overall I'm pretty happy with the results from the PPV, nothing rating too far below where I wanted it to be (though I'm blaming the All Action D+ on Foxx. Cough)

I've only just started putting angle grades in, at... I've forgotten who asked me to actually, but this is honestly pretty much the usual spread. Things with main event guys average out to around a B+, some Bs, got an A once. Undercard angles are in the C range. (I'm pretty sure every single Law/Minnesota angle has been a C+, maybe one B- in there somewhere).

Next post will probably be a roster post so you can see where the roster is at, possibly Joel's thoughts, and maybe a few minor reveals, too, seenas not all of my signings have made it on screen yet.

Blake Trask · March 16, 2013

And for some weird reason, I completely forgot the prize for winning the prediction contest.

So! Shadowsong. At some point during the next in-game month, there will be an interview with a roster member. Since you won the predictions for this month, you get to pick from anyone to interview, and I'll put it to everyone what questions they want to see.

Roster post to come soon, hopefully. Tough to tell, these can take me ages.

Blake Trask · March 25, 2013

From the notes of Joel Bryant...

--

So we've had a lot of movement over the last month. Lots of new faces, some of the older faces beginning with something new, and some of them... some of them beginning the motions that will, long term, see them slowly phased out. Doing what we did, when we did was a big gamble, and looking at our overheads, this is definitely the last spending spree that we can afford for something like a year unless the industry starts skyrocketing.

Still, we've had people scanning the dirt sheets and reading up on articles posted about TCW and the American wrestling scene. We made a splash, for whatever that's worth, and people are saying that we just about looked better than the competition. USPW are reeling from that - getting called third rate etcetera, and it's seeming like they might struggle to regain that lost esteem. Good we've knocked one of the horses out of the race, but the SWF have a heck of a head start, so any celebrations might be premature.

Nice to know people think we can beat SWF though... that's the start of making some of that ground up.

Anyhow. Need to get this stuff written down, helps me organise things...

--

Top Dogs

The main event, or so they should be. Couple of guys up here may have overstayed their welcome. A couple might not be ready yet. Regardless, they're our most popular workers, if not our best ones.

Bryan Vessey

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I'm monitoring Bryan carefully. There's no doubt that he's one of our top wrestlers. Five years ago, and I'd have been considering putting the strap on him. In 2013... the rust is starting to show, and it's looking like the years are finally catching up with Bryan. It might be time to start easing him down the card - I've got an idea for a feud that could begin that process, actually...

Eddie Peak

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He may occasionally be a pain backstage, but I've pushed worse headaches than Eddie before and I'm sure I'll do it again. Looking at what I've seen from him so far... he might be ready to take this next step up. Month one has seen a lot of Eddie, albeit amongst the undercard crew... and those performances have boded well. I'm not sure if what we have planned will see Eddie take off, but if not... if he doesn't bomb it, it could be time for us to put our shoulders behind him.

Joey Minnesota

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See 'worse headaches than Eddie'. Joey is indisputably one of our best workers, and all things considered, I think it's time he moved back into the spotlight again. Happily, it looks as though this current program is doing something for both Joey and Rick, so no need to change the script just yet. Even so... looking at the plans for the year, there are plenty of places Joey can be pencilled in. Attitude asides, he deserves it for his ability.

Koshiro Ino

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Cutting weight has made Koshiro look better than ever; just in time for his association with Rocky to pull him into the limelight for the first time in a while. The next couple of months will go a long way towards showing if Koshiro's able to cut it at the top. I hope he can make it, and I think that if things continue the way initial results indicate, then he will.

Rick Law

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As well as being a lovely guy, Rick's in the best shape of his career, and his microphone work has taken a notable stride over the past month. His in-ring game needs further development before I can treat him as a true main eventer, but rubbing shoulders with Joey isn't going to hurt at all, and Rick's always shown a commitment to improving his work. We'll see how things go; this storyline with Joey is gaining Rick his best reactions since his time in the Syndicate.

Ricky Dale Johnson

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Number one contender and sadly showing his age. It's not quite time to put RDJ out to pasture yet - it's pretty obvious from his match with Bryan that he can still perform, but more than ever, we can't stand on sentiment right now. These next couple of months are going to be crucial as to where we go with him, and he will need careful management to stop him from plummeting.

Rocky Golden

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I have always been a Rocky fan. Say what you'd like - and the internet has espoused at length about Rocky's 'issues' - the fans buy into Rocky. Heck, I buy into Rocky. Send him into a room of people who know nothing about wrestling and he'll have them believing he's a movie star inside of ten minutes. In any case, for every fan disparaging Rocky's work in the ring, there are a bunch more who are willing to buy tickets to see him fighting the good fight. Rocky's not perfect, but who is, these days? He knows enough to hold up his end of a match, and that's all that matters for the time being.

Tommy Cornell

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Tommy is one of the best wrestlers in the world. The fact that he's my boss doesn't change the fact there's only a handful of men who can claim to be anywhere close to him. He's been as good as ever this month, and I just can't see that changing any time soon. There's no doubt that he's going to be at the centre of our big storyline. He called it a rehash... I'm sure the internet are going to call it a rehash too. I don't care. Last time around, mistakes were made, bad luck with injuries hit, and I didn't know how to deal with that. This time? I have contingency plans in place. This time, we're going to get it right.

Troy Tornado

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No amount of careful booking can hide that Troy's lost a step since he cracked a vertebrae. That's not a criticism of him, that's just an observation. Nobody takes an injury like he did and is the same afterwards. In any case, Troy still knows his way around a microphone and can do enough in the ring not to look like a liability, so he gets a pass. It's too bad feuding with an up and comer is more his speed than tangling for the world title, but if things go well, Troy could do a lot for several of our new guys.

Wolf Hawkins

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The champ, and deserves to hold the belt on his own merit, not just because of his teacher. Tommy Cornell has made a lot of stars, but that's a two way street - you can't be carried to good results forever. See Valentine, Peter. Wolf has been picking up more and more lately - in the ring, with his gimmick, on the microphone, and the crowds have been responding to that. Looking all of this over, and of course, depending on how the big storyline evolves, it could be time to start moving towards that feud.

The Upper Crust

Either on the way up, the way down, or possibly gate keeping. For some of these guys, the next year or so could shape whether or not they make the leap to being the people I talk about first.

Aaron Andrews

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International champion, and the jury's still out. His performances haven't been anything less than acceptable, but barring a couple of cases haven't been much more than acceptable, either. I'm still not sure who shoulders the blame for his match with Troy, but in truth I expected better - given other results, that was a poor showing. This feud with Jay is showing promise though, and I need to remember that Aaron is only 26; not everyone main events in their twenties. Time is on his side.

American Buffalo

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Buffalo is what I'd term a 'useful' wrestler rather than a particularly good one. It helps that he's one scary mother, and that he's kept himself in great shape even though he's pushing forty. Still, it isn't saying a lot when you're the stronger half of a team featuring Texas Pete, and although their reign with the belts was decent, it didn't set the world alight. Honestly, Buffalo works best as muscle, he and Pete could both use some help in the dark.

Benny Benson

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Benny's a hard worker and the crowd responds to him - on the other hand, his early days where he was more or less a spotmonkey have hit his knees pretty badly, and I'm feeling that this spot is more or less the peak of where he can reach in this company. That's not to say I don't rate him, but... well, in terms of priorities to give TV time to, Benny is not high on my list at all, which is the unfortunate truth.

Danny Fonzarelli

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Funny how Jay Darkness has wound up in another tag team, again arguably the more talented half... but that's the way things go in wrestling sometimes. Danny works hard and the fans like him, which is good enough for me not to actively try and bleed his popularity, but not really enough on its own for me to push him, either. How far he can go depends on how well him and Tana continue to mesh - initial results are promising and the tag team division needs fresh legs... but it also needs teams that can go without being carried. I have to see more before I'll know if I can bank on Danny.

Guide

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Extra muscle really suits Thom,enhances both his image and the image of the New Wave. It helps to highlight the differences between him and Jeremy, and the way they work together - the bigger brawler, the smaller technician. In any case, you could criticise me for taking the 'safe' option of putting the tag team titles on the Wave again, but honestly, they're pretty much the cream of the crop in the tag team division now, and it's never a bad time for another run for the Wave.

Joel Bryant

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I'm slowing down, getting older... but I know my way around the ring still, and whilst I still have something to teach I can't let age get the best of me just yet. Hopefully the kids will learn a thing or two before I call it a day.

John Anderson

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John is in an awkward spot, and unfortunately it's mostly my fault. He's a good wrestler, and the tag division is better for his presence... but the main event could have been better for his presence, too. The way things stand, John just doesn't have the traction to strike out on his own, and the Machines are too valuable as a unit for me to break them up and give John that big push. No Machines and Brent gets badly exposed... I can't risk destroying one of the tag division's cornerstones for the sake of gambling that John will make it big.

Joshua Taylor

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Josh is an industrious kind of guy, and that's the sort of thing that I can get behind, given time. He's not egregiously weak in any areas, knows how to put a match together and is young enough to smooth off his rough edges. Honestly... I have a good feeling about him. There are a few programs I have in mind, and he'll be starting one off pretty soon. If Josh takes to it - if the fans take to him, then he could well be ready to take that next step.

Sammy Bach

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Talented, popular, has a million dollar look... If Rocky could convince people he's a movie star, Sammy could have them clamouring for autographs. Sammy has the 'It' factor... I just don't know if he's too small for our fans to take seriously. The fans of the 'traditional' type of product don't tend to like cruiserweights - not as main eventers, anyhow. However, he's transcended the All Action division and his character doesn't really work with a partner; the only thing for it is for him to win the sceptics over with match quality.

Scout

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The other half of the New Wave. Probably more talented, but also more of a pain in the ass, so it more or less evens out. Not any less deserving of a belt for all that, and I'm looking forward to seeing where this title reign will take him and Thom. Four time champions puts these two in pretty exclusive company, and who knows, if Bryan's still with the company by the time they make it five (and barring a severe injury, I can't see them not making it five), there could be some serious storyline potential in there. For now though, they're the best team and whilst the belts shouldn't ALWAYS be on the best team, it will work for now.

The Pack

Some of these guys are steadfasts, some of them are new, and a couple have slipped here. A couple of these guys are on their way up, for a few, they won't be moving unless they improve. A couple of cases only made it into what I can class the midcard because of our new blood pushing them upwards. Regardless, this is the most varying group of them all.

Brent Hill

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Unfortunately father time is really getting to Brent, and of late it's becoming more and more the case that rather than being an excellent tag team, the Machines are now mostly a means to mask how much Brent is slowing down. Honestly, it's testament to Brent's abilities that he can still make it happen in the ring even this far past his prime, but I can't see it being the case for too much longer. My hope is that we can squeeze another year or so out of him and the Machines, by which point their presence - again, hopefully - won't be needed to prop up the tag team division any longer.

Chance Fortune

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Chance is a bit of a 'could have been' for me. You watch him in the ring, and just think if he'd maybe worked a little bit harder, perhaps had more of the right kinds of opponents, then he would be one of the guys moving into the main event by now. Keep thinking like that as a booker though, and you'll start to go insane - it's impossible to dwell on the what ifs and the maybes, and talking in the here and now, Chance is a decent midcarder with a team greater than the sum of its parts. Depending on how Aaron's title run proceeds, the Connection could drop back into the tag team division... but here's a note for you Joel - if that happens, don't let Chance hold Aaron back.

Edd Stone

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Although he can be a disruptive presence, Edd's such a loveable rogue that he gets along with just about everyone. He had his issues back in Canada, but since joining us he's been good as gold... might be that getting canned by his dad was the shock to the system he needed. He's a solid worker and young enough that I have high hopes for the future if he can raise his stock. Edd's also probably the easiest person on the roster to book for - just give him the seed of an idea and he's come up with an entire angle all by himself. These generally speaking require some judicious editing, but reactions so far have been pretty good - this story is getting off on the right foot.

Flying Jimmy Foxx

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Jimmy does a job, but it's a little telling that the All Action division was bare enough to necessitate giving him the belt. With the purse strings loosened and some of the new talent Tommy let me get my hands on, I have my doubts as to whether he's going to wind up within touching distance of the title again. Still, he could surprise me - it's happened before, and All Action gives me a little bit more room for experimentation. When I think of all the other potential feuds though... Jimmy's dropped pretty far on my list of priorities.

Freddy Huggins

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Never would have thought that Freddy would be a stabilising presence, but he clicks well with Edd both inside and outside of the ring. Although Edd's got a title now, I can't see the Animals fading out of relevance. I've got to say that I'm pretty pleased with what I have coming for the two of them - and their valets of course, in the next few months. It's the first time in a while I've felt so optimistic about the prospects of our midcard.

Genghis Rahn

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Honestly about the only thing that Genghis still has going for him is that he's kept himself in good shape. That's admirable for a man past forty, but I just don't understand why he never showed the same commitment to improving his in-ring work. You can't just keep doing the same thing for 25 years and expect it not to get stale, or the company not to move on. That's why we tried to turn him face a few years back, but he put so little effort into it that the fans never bought it. I don't know... all I can say is that he's made his bed and now he gets to lay in it. His contract is up soon and I don't foresee it being renewed.

Giant Tana

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Tana has a unique kind of charm - it's just a shame that the wrestler has never matched up to the image and the gimmick. That he works so well with Danny is the first stroke of luck Tana's had in a while, and my fingers are crossed that it'll be what lets him start to regain some of his traction. There are worse places to be than part of a solid tag team, and 'Party Rocking' (according to my youngest son, that's trendy right now, I don't know...) look like they could have the potential to be solid.

Harry Allen

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I feel bad for Harry. He was always the more talented of the Guns, but if Ford had managed to keep up with the pace - the TCW pace, then there would have been justification for extended feuds with the Machines, the Wave... As it is, Harry's never really had the opportunity to work with people above an All Action level on more than a one-off basis, and because of that, All Action has pretty much become his level. Not that he's a bad worker, just I feel like he could've done more ... ah well, he does his job and I can see him helping out a lot of the new guys.

Jay Chord

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Seeing Jay is more than a little surreal. I worked with his dad, back when I was a rookie and Rip was the veteran - only a couple of matches, but when Rip was on song, working with him, watching him... things of beauty. Looking at Jay is like seeing a ghost. He is eerily like Rip, and in more ways than one - talented, swaggering, and with a habit of drinking more than he should. From the stories I've heard, a young Rip Chord had exactly the same streak of self-centeredness as Jay. Tough to imagine, thinking of the gruff but genial Rip Chord I knew and still see every so often, but this is a business where ego often comes with talent. Still, setting aside all of that for a moment, I'm already seeing Jay getting stronger reactions than in the past, and the fans are really getting invested in his matches. Watch this space Joel, if he can avoid coming in hungover too many times, we could have a damn fine wrestler on our hands.

Killer Shark

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My conversation with Eddie certainly made me think over what we're doing with, ahem, Yancy, but I can't think of anything more than I did at the time. There's a great monster heel somewhere in there, but just like any monster, he needs developing. You can't just have a guy steamroller people and expect the fans to eat it up, any more. Having Eddie helping him out will definitely boost Shark's prospects in the long term though.

Mighty Mo

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Mo is a good kid, and he's slowly but surely getting better. I have to keep him in mind over the next few months - with all this new blood there's a slight danger of him getting lost in the shuffle, and allowing that to happen would be a damn shame. Our home grown guys are important, and of the current crop, Mo is probably only second to Andrews by my reckoning. In the mean time, so long as he's getting regular work, I probably shouldn't worry too much.

Roger Cage

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If experience has taught me anything, it's that the more off the wall you go with your character, the less likely you are to succeed - the bigger a risk, the more of a chance that it will crash and burn and you'll be remembered for only that failure. When Roger pitched his proposed gimmick to me, I wasn't sure if he was kidding. In retrospect, I'm happy I decided to take the gamble. He's making this work, somehow, and if he continues to make it work then it could go an awfully long way. As things stand he's doing what I brought him in for - delivering on the microphone, and this program with Troy is one I can see having legs.

Steven Parker

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It was around the time we acquired Steven that I started becoming aware of just how many blondes I'd hired. Not that there's anything wrong with being blonde but... well, when you've got a bunch of new guys, you don't want them all to start running together. In cases like Davis and Nelson, physical similarities helps to emphasise the gimmicks we've got in mind, for Steven and Greg... we didn't want them looking like a pair of clones. Thankfully, Steven didn't mind the idea of dyeing his hair, and that lets him stand out physically as well as in the ring, where he isn't exactly a slouch. I have high hopes for Steven; he's just hitting his stride as a wrestler, and with some momentum behind him I foresee great results.

Texas Pete

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Like Buffalo, but drinks more and isn't as good in the ring. Let's not be too harsh - Pete has a heart of gold and is one of the nicest men I know, that just... doesn't quite compensate for his in-ring flaws. Having someone like Pete around in the past year or so was probably what stopped me from going insane. Without Pete and Rick I think we would have had a homicide in that locker room by now, but with things a little calmer, the buzz about the new guys rather than the latest prank pulled... Pete's value as a ship-steadier is diminished. We'll see how it goes from here.

Winston

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We were always going to attach 'Winston' to Roger. It wasn't until the show itself that we actually decided on exactly how that association was going to manifest, and we have Roger to thank for that. Apparently Roger has worked wearing this get up on some smaller shows, where he just wants to keep his hand in rather than wanting to be booked as a big attraction. A little tailoring - since 'Winston' has bulked up lately, and we were onto a winner. Some people would call me out for misuse of a talented worker, I'm sure, but there's something unique here and it lets me push back the obvious storyline. Never thought we'd sign -

- Lost my train of thought. Tommy called me away. In any case. Good worker, interesting gimmick. Who says American audiences don't like hoods?

Small Fry

The guys who are too new to really have the crowd on their side - or on their backs. Everyone has to start somewhere though, and just because a guy is in this bracket now doesn't mean he'll still be there in a year's time. Most of these, booked well, have the potential to rise.

Cameron Vessey

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/CameronVessey.jpg

I can't lie and say I didn't have an ulterior motive for bringing in Cam. He's a good worker in his own right and it was about time he received a call from someone bigger than MAW... but ever since we've brought Cam in, his uncle has had a real spring in his step. Bryan's thrilled to have his nephew around, and that diffuses one of my main headaches. Let's not be unfair to Cam though - he has the potential to go a very long way in this business if he works hard. He improved a lot in MAW, we'll see if he can continue that pace now he's rubbing shoulders with better workers. If nothing else, I can see him and his partner giving the tag division a real shot in the arm.

Casey Valentine

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/CaseyValentine.jpg

Well he's already the best Valentine to work in this company, not that it's much of a distinction. Casey is probably, if I was going to pick, slightly weaker than Cameron, but there isn't more than a stone's throw in between the pair of them. If we can start getting the fans invested in CV-2, then I think we'll start to see some really good returns on that investment before too long.

Elliot Thomas

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/ElliotThomas.jpg

Elliot, at this point in his career, just needs to put his head down and work hard. There's potential here, but it will take a while to draw it out, and in the mean time I'm not sure he'll be winning very often. Ideally, if we had it or could afford it, we'd think about sending him to development but... well, it's not happening right now. A course of training matches won't do him any harm, though.

Greg Keith

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/GregGauge.jpg

'Greg Gauge' really does have a little more snap to it as a name, I have to say. With the family connection there though... people still remember Sam, still remember him as a legend, and tagging Greg with his dad's name is the best way to remind people that this is the son of the tough-as-nails veteran who ran with the Syndicate. If Greg were a worse wrestler, I'd be worried that he wouldn't be able to live up to that tag - as things are, it can only help him, at least until he builds his own name up some more. Rubbing shoulders with Troy and Steven should give Greg that boost.

Jamie Hernandez

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/MainstreamHernandez.jpg

Jamie oozes talent, oozes charisma. He's young yet, but he carries himself like a star, and if everything pans out the way that I'm hoping, then before very long he will be. I shouldn't get too too excited just yet though; the kid needs some more seasoning and experience in the 'big leagues' before I can strap a rocket to him. I don't want to ruin that potential by trying to go too big, too soon. Even so, Jamie is one of the main priorities amongst our new blood. He deserves time to shine.

Kevin Christopher

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/KCGlenn.jpg

Talent that sadly comes with strings attached, or rather, one huge rope, by the name of Joey Minnesota. Kevin's behaved himself so far, but maybe that's because he just signed and doesn't want to get himself canned by doing anything stupid. I haven't seen any evidence that Kevin's mentor has rubbed off on his attitude, but I'm willing to bet that a rookie Joey Minnesota was much more manageable too. We'll have to wait and see, though working with Eddie isn't going to do KC any harm with regards to his attitude, and the way they combine as a team could easily mean that they both gain their seasoning in the tag division. In this case, keeping KC from rocketing up might help us out in the long term. Well, help my migraines, at least...

Nelson Callum

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/NelsonCallum.jpg

I'm a big fan of Nelson's, and I'm looking forward to seeing what he can do outside of a hardcore atmosphere. Even back in PSW it was pretty clear he was a great wrestler for that level, and being removed from chairs and tables and barbed wire is only going to help him out. He's tagged a couple times with his buddy Davis Wayne already, and they gel pretty well, but I'm not sure Nelson's future should lie in the tag division. He's already ahead of Davis, I don't want to hold Nelson back whilst his partner catches up.

Xavier Ali

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/FranticAli.jpg

AKA: 'Frantic' Ali - not that TCW minds gimmick names in particular, but I'm looking for some cohesion here. Otherwise... well, there isn't really a whole lot to say. I like what I saw of Ali, but he was a back-up choice and only brought in once I realised we still didn't have anyone to fill this role with the Animals. We'll just have to wait and see how he develops and fits in with the program that's coming up. I wouldn't have signed him if I didn't think he had the potential to make it, but I'm not quite as sure of Ali as I am some of our other new faces.

Opening Acts

The guys that just need a little bit more time before they can do anything big, whether that's because they lack for fan support or ability. They aren't necessarily untalented, they just have the least going for them currently - they aren't recognised.

Davis Wayne Newton

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/DavisWayneNewton.jpg

Davis can do a little bit of everything - one of Rip Chord's best projects, I feel. The issue isn't whether he can deliver in the ring, the issue is pretty simply that nobody has any idea who he is right now. He's just another youthful blonde guy who showed up recently. That's a problem.. and I can't just hitch him onto Nelson because Nelson needs space to get the crowd behind him too. It'll be a project to get him over, that's for sure.

Edward Cornell

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/EdwardCornell.jpg

It might take the fans a while, but I think that they're slowly but surely waking up to the fact that we haven't just dragged in some random guy and announced he's related to Tommy Cornell - this is his legitimate relative. Being honest Edward needs the help; not that he isn't a good worker, but he's amongst the oldest of our new acquisitions and starting off at a disadvantage for name value to most of them. Thankfully working with KC will do a lot for Edward too in terms of their overall match quality. I have... we'll call them hopes, for the younger Cornell. I'll do as much as I can for him without jeopardising the rest of the guys... hold yourself to that one, Joel.

Jacob Jett

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JacobJett.jpg

The extent of the spree we went on last month is fairly thoroughly summed up by the fact that someone as talented as Jake is yet to make it onto TV. His outings in the dark have been promising though, and it's some consolation to me that even if he's not getting broadcast for all to see, we're still giving him matches and more of them than he would be getting if he was still working in 4C. Guess it comes down whether you'd rather be making decent money as a big fish in a small pond, or good money as a small fish in a big pond.

Jeremie Courtney

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JeremieCourtney.jpg

Every time I look at Jeremie in the ring, I ask myself why we signed him, yet decided Quentin Queen needed more seasoning. I mean sure Quentin needed work but as projects go, there are worse. Like Jeremie. I dunno, the kid tries hard but he's just tepid at best. He's firmly at the bottom of my list of priorities.

Mark Fearn

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/ErnestYoungman.jpg

Hard-working, has a good look, not too shabby in the ring and to round it all off a really good presence backstage too. I'm glad so many of our rookies are genial type of people, it really helps balance out what was starting to become a nightmare. It's going to take a while for Ernest/Mark to settle into a groove, but he's only 20, he's got a lot of time. My gut tells me he has what it takes to go all the way.

Nigel Svensson

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/NigelSvensson-1.jpg

I'm very fond of Nigel, but it's tough to see where he'll go in the early stage of his career here - our fans are slow to warm to guys without the look. On the other hand, he also has a skillset which sets him apart from the crowd. We really don't have a lot of technically inclined workers, certainly none that focus on it to the extent that Nigel does, barring maybe Scout. Hopefully, that lets Nigel carve his own niche and get noticed amongst all these new faces.

Remmy Honeyman

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/RemmyHoneyman.jpg

To be blunt, every company needs a guy who is left staring up at the lights, and Remmy has the ideal skillset to fit that type of role. I wouldn't out and out say that he's liable to be a career jobber, but he'll have to get better in a few areas first. For now, he's a better option to have go out there and lose than people like Jeremie, enough said.

--

Getting called away, I'll finish this later. Have to talk about the girls, of course...

Blake Trask · February 22, 2014

The Women

Latest addition to our ever increasing roster and a booking headache in the making. Tommy's set on adding the division and I can't really argue with him. The issue is, straightforwardly, that the fans need to get used to the idea of seeing female workers around before we think about seriously pushing them as a featured attraction... and that's a gradual process. I've been finding ways to get them on screen but it's non ideal and some aren't getting the time they deserve. As always it's a juggling act.

Agent

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/Agent.jpg

I had reservations about this before I started it off. I felt the Wave might be resistant to the idea of a manager and Katherine might resent being put into that role. As it turns out the Wave love her and Katherine enjoys doing what she's doing, so we dodged a bullet there. I think they appreciate being paired with someone who is also a good wrestler. Long term I'm optimistic.

Brooke Marsh

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/BrookeMarsh.jpg

The biggest boost for the girl who has the least name value. To her credit Brooke hasn't looked out of place alongside the world champion and that says a tremendous amount for her. Not going by her real name, one part her dad's request, one part my own idea. Outings behind closed doors say she's not bad in the ring, either.

Fuyuko Higa

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/FuyukoHiga.jpg

So that's why Tommy's old friend Kit Hitoyama started busting a gut laughing when we asked if she had any insights on our new import...

Jessie Quine

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JaimeQuine.jpg

Threw a fit when we told her that we weren't billing her by her real name. Has been sulking off screen ever since. Big sister told us to give her some time to cool down but the last thing I wanted was another sulker. One more for the pile I guess.

Lily Snyder

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/LilySnyder.jpg

Brought in so that we could have a lower-level girl to lose to the others, more or less. Given that we're yet to reach the point of regular women's matches, this means that I've had very little time to spend on her so far. I feel slightly guilty about that but needs must.

Suzanne Brazzle

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/SuzanneBrazzle.jpg

Behind Brooke probably the biggest beneficiary of my attentions right now. Not so much because Suzanne needs it... she's had enough of a reaction for me to know that a reasonable section of the fans know who she is already - she just happens to fill a niche better than anyone else, and in the division as it stands that translates to screentime.

Tracy Brendon-Taylor

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/TracyBrendon.jpg

Tracy brings a little more pleasantness to the locker room - Josh has practically been floating since we hired her, and there's an aura of contentment emanating from wherever the two of them are together. Call me a cynical old booker, but I've got every intention of using that - wrestlers are not actors, and the fans pick up on small things. Play the cards right and both Tracy and Josh could get a boost from the pairing.

Zoe Ammis

http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/ZoeAmmis.jpg

Zoe was genuinely excited for the idea of, in her own words 'getting glammed up'. It can't be often you get to look your absolute best as a woman's wrestler, not with the exertion of a match. As it stands that's given Zoe a very unique charm and character that I think we can work with.

Phantom Stranger · February 22, 2014

Holy crap what

Big Roguey · February 22, 2014

I'M MARKING OUT BRO!

Glad to see another one of my early favourites come back!

Blake Trask · February 22, 2014

The return (AKA - wow, has it really been nearly a year because this is pushing it even for you, Blake)

Yes, it is indeed me doing my classic thing of not being able to let an old diary lie. At the time 8ROW sort've fell apart, I was rather dispirited about the prospect of continuing, and things wound up falling fallow on this end. Seemed a bit pointless after the ambition of the project didn't translate into longevity (though we gave it a decent shot, I feel).

On the other hand, I found myself repeatedly coming back to both the diary and the game save over time, not necessarily book, just to look over what I'd done. More and more, I was thinking about the potential plans I'd had in mind... there was a tremendous amount that I'd wanted to do with the game, and I still had many of the ideas for. With Self going solo with CGC (and doing a fantastic job, I might add), I got to thinking... well, why not?

In any case, I'm not holding myself to a strict schedule here. I have learned by now that I am not very good at those and they just lead to me slacking. This is going to update on a routine of 'When I can' mixed with 'When I have the mojo'. I'll aim not to let updates become too too sporadic, but you're unlikely to be able to apply 'regular' to LROD from here on.

But, well, y'know, I figure so long as I beat 11 months for the next update I'm ahead of the curve.

Blake Trask · February 22, 2014

<div style="text-align:center;">TCW PRESENTS... TOTAL WRESTLING</div>

Card

Koshiro Ino vs. Mark Fearn

Jamie Hernandez vs. Genghis Rahn

The L.A. Connection vs. Jay Chord & Rick Law

Roger Cage & Winston vs. Perfection Squared (Nelson Callum & Davis Wayne Newton)

Mighty Mo, Nigel Svensson & Harry Allen vs. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali w/Laura Huggins & Vita

(Non title)

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh vs. Sammy Bach

Joey Minnesota vs. Eddie Peak

Bonus: Which non-wrestler has attracted Tommy Cornell's ire?

3rdStringPG · February 22, 2014

IT'S ALIVE! <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Great to see this diary make a comeback.

Ino

Hernandez

Chord and Law

Cage and Winston

Animals and Ali

Hawkins

Minnesota

Bonus Question - Kyle Rhodes

Midnightnick · February 22, 2014

Koshiro Ino vs. Mark Fearn

Jamie Hernandez vs. Genghis Rahn

The L.A. Connection vs. Jay Chord & Rick Law

Roger Cage & Winston vs. Perfection Squared (Nelson Callum & Davis Wayne Newton)

Mighty Mo, Nigel Svensson & Harry Allen vs. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali w/Laura Huggins & Vita

(Non title)

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh vs. Sammy Bach

Joey Minnesota vs. Eddie Peak

Phantom Stranger · February 22, 2014

Koshiro Ino vs. Mark Fearn

Jamie Hernandez vs. Genghis Rahn

The L.A. Connection vs. Jay Chord & Rick Law

Roger Cage & Winston vs. Perfection Squared (Nelson Callum & Davis Wayne Newton)

Mighty Mo, Nigel Svensson & Harry Allen vs. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali w/Laura Huggins & Vita

(Non title)

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh vs. Sammy Bach

Joey Minnesota vs. Eddie Peak

Bonus: Which non-wrestler has attracted Tommy Cornell's ire? Kyle Rhodes

Rickymex · February 22, 2014

Koshiro Ino vs. Mark Fearn

Jamie Hernandez vs. Genghis Rahn

The L.A. Connection vs. Jay Chord & Rick Law

Roger Cage & Winston vs. Perfection Squared (Nelson Callum & Davis Wayne Newton)

Mighty Mo, Nigel Svensson & Harry Allen vs. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali w/Laura Huggins & Vita

(Non title)

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh vs. Sammy Bach

Joey Minnesota vs. Eddie Peak

Bonus: Which non-wrestler has attracted Tommy Cornell's ire? Jasmine Saunders?

Deamon · February 22, 2014

Koshiro Ino vs. Mark Fearn

Jamie Hernandez vs. Genghis Rahn

The L.A. Connection vs. Jay Chord & Rick Law

Roger Cage & Winston vs. Perfection Squared (Nelson Callum & Davis Wayne Newton)

Mighty Mo, Nigel Svensson & Harry Allen vs. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali w/Laura Huggins & Vita

(Non title)

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh vs. Sammy Bach

Joey Minnesota vs. Eddie Peak

Eddie may be one of my favourite guys in the CVerse but I sense shenanigans here.

Bonus: Which non-wrestler has attracted Tommy Cornell's ire? Jason Azaria

LiquidSwords · February 22, 2014

Koshiro Ino vs. Mark Fearn

Jamie Hernandez vs. Genghis Rahn

The L.A. Connection vs. Jay Chord & Rick Law

Roger Cage & Winston vs. Perfection Squared (Nelson Callum & Davis Wayne Newton)

Mighty Mo, Nigel Svensson & Harry Allen vs. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali w/Laura Huggins & Vita

(Non title)

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh vs. Sammy Bach Draw

Joey Minnesota vs. Eddie Peak

Bonus: Which non-wrestler has attracted Tommy Cornell's ire? Kyle Rhodes

smwilliams · February 22, 2014

Koshiro Ino vs. Mark Fearn

Jamie Hernandez vs. Genghis Rahn

The L.A. Connection vs. Jay Chord & Rick Law

Roger Cage & Winston vs. Perfection Squared (Nelson Callum & Davis Wayne Newton)

Mighty Mo, Nigel Svensson & Harry Allen vs. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali w/Laura Huggins & Vita

(Non title)

Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh vs. Sammy Bach

Joey Minnesota vs. Eddie Peak

Bonus: Which non-wrestler has attracted Tommy Cornell's ire? Kyle Rhodes for sure.

EDIT TO ADD: Forgot to add that it's good to have you back. You picked up a fan with that short-lived NOTBPW diary which was amazing.

Blake Trask · February 25, 2014

<div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/TCW.jpg TCW Presents... Total Wrestling San Juan Cultural Centre (Puerto Rico) Attendance: 8,310 Broadcast Live on G.N.N Total Sports (6.91) Commentary: http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JasonAzaria.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/KyleRhodes.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/ShawnDoakes.jpg Jason Azaria - Kyle Rhodes - Shawn Doakes http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/RockyGolden.jpg</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Trumpets blare as Golden emerges from backstage, high-fiving his way down to the ring and not seeming in too terrible spirits considering his failed attempt at the title. Once he finds a microphone, though, he’s all business. “You guys all know me. Show up, have a good fight, go home, have a good meal, relax, maybe crack open a beer. I love doing this, and I try – I do – not to let what happens in this ring get me down. So… I’m really not the guy who comes out after a match and complains about the result.” A pause, a shake of the head, and a frown is creasing Golden’s brown. “But see. I had Wolf Hawkins in the centre of the ring pinned for the one, two, three. And I dunno about you, cause I’m not always the sharpest tool in the shed, but seems to me that someone pinning the champ for three in a title match… should be the champion.” Golden looks down at his waist and pulls a face of mock surprise. “Weird. Seems I’m not champ. And that’s cause of what everyone and their grandma saw… Wolf’s lady friend distracting the referee from counting it out. Don’t get me wrong, I ain’t blaming Sam Sparrow for that, it ain’t his fault that Wolf never met a rule in his life he didn’t try to break-“ <div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo"><div><iframe width="200" height="150" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/P58xWcSLt_8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" title="Metallica - Of Wolf and Man [LYRICS]"></iframe></div></div>. <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/TommyCornell.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/WolfHawkins.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/BrookeMarsh.jpg</div> The crowd let their feelings be known as Wolf Hawkins comes out, flanked by Tommy Cornell and Brooke Marsh, world title wrapped around his waist. Hawkins grandstands for a bit, repeatedly gesturing to the championship belt, before raising a microphone he’s brought with him. “Whine, whine, whine, whine!” Golden folds his arms, implacable. “So how about that, Rocky. I guess the shoe’s on the other foot now, huh? It’s all fun and games when you’re the guy breaking the rules in every match with your so-called Rocky Road, but as soon as someone else stretches the boundaries, you’re out here crying about fair play and the spirit of wrestling… you’re nothing but an enormous hypocrite, and I’m going to-“ Wolf and Cornell start forward as Hawkins speaks, Golden raising his hands to fight- and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuCJ5nRP6d0" rel="external nofollow">the Syndicate stop in their tracks as another theme plays</a>. <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/RickyDaleJohnson.jpg</div> RDJ, number one contender, appears on the stage, and the Syndicate are now halfway up the ramp, caught between Golden and RDJ. Suddenly the prospect of a fight seems a lot less inviting to Hawkins and co, Wolf looking back and forth, eyes flitting between the pair. RDJ soaks in the reaction for a few moments, then raises a microphone. “So here I stand again. Number one contender. It’s been a long time since I’ve held that belt of yours, Hawkins, and with the way things are… well I know I ain’t as young as I used to be. Might be that I don’t get too many more shots at it,” RDJ breaks off smiling to acknowledge some ‘YOU STILL GOT IT’ chants from the crowd. “Thing is… You and Rocky, far as I see it, have some unfinished business in the ring, Hawkins. I ain’t making this offer lightly, but unfinished business rankles with me, and I reckon I can put father time off a little bit longer. I’m willing to find something else to do for the month, keep myself sharp and tuned up as you folks go mano e mano, thrash out your differences. And when it’s said and done the dust’s settled? Then I’ll take my title shot against whichever one of you boys is holding the belt. What do y’all-“ Cornell snatches the microphone. “No deal.” RDJ stops, raises an eyebrow. Golden brings up his own mic. “Now wait just a –“ “Shut your mouth Golden. Sick and tired of you bleatin’ like a bloody sheep. Wolf’ll fight you-“ he jabs at Golden. “And you,” turning to gesture at RDJ. “An’ when he beats the both of you, there won’t be a bleedin’ excuse left.” Wolf is stunned. Rocky’s frown slowly gives way to a grin as RDJ shrugs and nods. Grade: B+ </div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/KoshiroIno.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/Events/vs7.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/ErnestYoungman.jpg Koshiro Ino vs. Mark Fearn</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Decent contest. Fearn is clearly not on Ino’s level in the perception of the fans but he doesn’t fight like it, willingly taking the battle to the Kobra. Ino is momentarily on the back foot as Fearn exhibits his great striking, but he’s taken punishment from the big bruisers of TCW and this is nothing new. Ino absorbs the early flurry and as Fearn switches his game to a more technical display, Ino overpowers him and in short order takes control. A trio of Japanese-flavoured German suplexes put Fearn down, Ino stalks him… and the Kobra’s Bite finishes it. Koshiro Ino defeated Mark Fearn Grade: C+</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/TommyCornell.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/WolfHawkins.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/BrookeMarsh.jpg</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Backstage, we see the Syndicate occupying a table in the canteen, Wolf Hawkins is – as more and more often becoming the case, agitated, seeming not able to sit still, hand beating a frantic rhythm on the world title. Cornell glances over at him. “Would you give it a bloody rest?” Hawkins whirls, rounding on his mentor. “You just signed me up for a freaking handicap match! For my world title! Sorry if I’m not dancing a damn jig!” Tommy Cornell smiles in the way that only Tommy Cornell can. “Assumin’ they work together.” There’s a pause from Hawkins. “Why wouldn’t they? I’m hardly on their Christmas list.” “Standin’ aside for another bloke isn’t in their nature. Either of ‘em. Sure they might give you a few licks, but soon enough they’ll be knockin’ seven bells outta each other… and that’s where you come in.” Hawkins looks dubious. “If you say so… but if this doesn’t go to plan-“ “Then it’s on-“ Cornell’s head suddenly snaps around with a look of fury on his face. “You! What the bloody hell do you think you’re doin’ here!?” <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/EricTyler.jpg</div> The camera pans… and there stands Eric Tyler. “Gettin’ some dinner.” “Malice was one thing- but now you’re struttin’ ‘round on Total Wrestlin’ like you own the place? Bugger off! This is employees only!” Tyler looks amused at Cornell’s anger. “Funny thing there… If yer read yer faxes, it’d be plain to see that I’ve gotten meself a managerial contract. Meanin’ I’ve got every damn right to be here.” Cornell seems set to explode. “Manager- Managin’ who!? How the bleedin’ hell did you get that deal!? I didn’t authorise-“ “I got no obligation to answer that ‘Mister’ Cornell. Now if’n yer excuse me, I saw a rib rack with me name written all over it. ‘Cheerio’!” Tyler moves on. Cornell is fuming and Hawkins isn’t much better. Grade: B+ </div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/MainstreamHernandez.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/Events/vs7.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/GenghisRahn.jpg Jamie Hernandez vs. Genghis Rahn</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>There’s passing comment from the ever observant Doakes that this is the second member of the Hellfire Club Hernandez has taken on since his debut a short while ago. Rhodes grimly remarks that the Club might not be the wisest of opposition to pick a fight with. Even so, the newcomer is lively and agile, and it quickly becomes obvious that Rahn just can’t keep up the pace. The Wildman lands some solid blows – at one point meeting a crossbody with a brutal knee, but Hernandez always has the wherewithal to get clear, make some space between Rahn and himself. Rahn is frustrated, tired, catches Hernandez and tries to powerbomb him, put it to rest- and SPIKED on his head with a hurricanrana! Hernandez scrambles clear, vaults the turnbuckle, and launches himself off; Shooting Star Press! Doakes: APPARITION NUMBER FOURTEEN! Rahn’s flattened and summarily pinned. Jamie Hernandez defeated Genghis Rahn Grade: C-</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/AaronAndrews.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/ChanceFortune.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/Events/vs7.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JayChord.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/RickLaw_alt3.jpg The L.A. Connection vs. Jay Chord & Rick Law</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>The L.A Connection is still a team on the back-burner, but for all that, they’re former tag team champions and their understanding is strong. Perhaps not quite on the near psychic levels of the Animals, or the perfect synchronisation of the Machines and New Wave… but if Andrews needs a hand, Fortune is there to provide it. If Fortune is in trouble, Andrews is there within a second to bail his partner out. Law and Chord work hard, but Law is a distracted, anxious figure, constantly looking around nervously, alert for an attack… but not to the action going on in the ring. When Chord’s on the apron, he’s too worn down from the punishment he’s taken to help Law, and bit by bit, the Connection seem to be building momentum, building confidence… Law eats a double suplex but retaliates with a desperation Squad Car Slam – he and Fortune both need to make a tag. They crawl for their corners… they leap… And Andrews isn’t there. Andrews is at ringside shouting at an all-too familiar face. <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/SuzanneBrazzle.jpg</div> Fortune’s left stranded in no-man’s land, Chord is in the ring, catches him with the roll-up, and snags the tights to guarantee it. Jay Chord & Rick Law defeated The L.A. Connection Grade: C</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/TroyTornado.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/ZoeAmmis.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/StevenParker.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/GregGauge.jpg</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div> Troy Tornado hits with the ring, flanked by the two men who gave him such an assist at Malice, Ammis on his arm. He's all grins as he looks at the fans from the centre of the ring, the two inteferers mounting turnbuckles and raising their arms. "It's a long while since I had a posse to run with. Been missing it, to tell you the truth. A rock star deserves his entourage, and I mean a good entourage when I say that, not those lumps that called themselves Painful Procedure." Even now, the mention of the old, fondly remembered stable is enough to get Tornado some serious heat. "So I went out and found myself a few buddies. -Thanks for that by the way Zoe, knew I brought you in for a reason. So, ladies and gentlemen... allow me to introduce you to two of the realest rockers you'll ever meet..." The blonde hops down and stands alongside Tornado. "You might know him as the son of Sam Keith. Me? I know him as one of the best damn guitarists I've had the pleasure of having at my back. This... is Greg Keith." Keith smiles, acknowledging the praise. The other man joins the group, moving close to Zoe Ammis. "And here... we've got an old pal of our Zoe here. Say hello to the wildest drummer in town; Steven Parker!" The fan response is less than enthusiastic. Troy turns up his nose. "Hate us if you want, but you'll be singing our tunes soon enough. Look out for Operation Hollywood in a record store near you, we're here to stay... Unlike that annoying little nerd Cage. Handed him his head and he left with his tail between his legs, just like I thought. Let that be-" <div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo"><div><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/9bZkp7q19f0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" title="PSY - GANGNAM STYLE(강남스타일) M/V"></iframe></div></div> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/RogerCage_alt.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/Winston.jpg</div> "Well that's rather odd, wouldn't you say Winston?" Winston says nothing as the pair move out onto the stage. Cage looks left, right, looks Winston up and down, then himself. "Indeed! Whilst our esteemed friend Troy appears to think that we're gone, so far as I can tell, we are very much still present. How odd!" Cage clears his throat and smiles apologetically. "Would you and your fellows be so gracious as to clear the ring, Troy? Winston and I have a match." Tornado, apoplectic with rage, has to be physically dragged out of the ring by Parker and Keith. Grade: D</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/RogerCage_alt.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/Winston.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/Events/vs7.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/NelsonCallum.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/DavisWayneNewton.jpg Roger Cage & Winston vs. Perfection Squared</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Cage and Winston set up together like they’ve been teaming for years and hey, Winston’s wearing a hood… you never know. Cage and Callum start in the ring, with Cage folding an arm across his stomach to bow deeply. Callum looks nonplussed, but at least wait until Cage has straightened up to punch him in the face. Cage’s head snaps back… and he proceeds to smile and unleash a combination that sends Callum loopy back into his corner for a tag. The crowd take a little time to wake up to this one, but the competitors bring them in steadily – both teams have that special something , that X factor as a unit, and that elevates interest to a level beyond the name value of the fighters. Newton is tenacious, has the all around skills to hang as long as he needs to. Callum is a vicious pit bull of a fighter. Cage does his own thing, and Winston… Winston is the centre of attention, biggest man in the ring and with the most power to offer. A killer flying superman punch from the masked butler sends Callum spilling to ringside long enough for Cage to nail the Cage Rage on Newton and pick up the win. Roger Cage & Winston defeated Perfection Squared Grade: C</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/AmericanBuffalo.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/FloydGoldworthy.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/TexasPete.jpg</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Floyd Goldworthy looks like a toy when standing next to American Buffalo and Texas Pete, and he looks more than nervous as he clears his throat. The camera pans. <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/EddiePeak.jpg</div> Eddie Peak turns. Floyd swallows. “Pete and the Buffalo are uh, well, that is- they want to know why you haven’t been uhm…” he looks at his monstrous charges looming over him, presses on. “…holding up your obligations to the Hellfire Club.” Peak just looks at him. “I… I… that is, you’ve been spending uh, an awful lot of time with ah, with the Animals, having them team with you, for instance, and uhm, since you’re the president and all…” Floyd trails off. “Peak…” the man rumbles. “…does as he wants. If he wishes to feed alongside the Club, Peak will. If not… he expects not to be questioned. Peak chose to find a meal with others.” He takes a step towards Goldworth, leaning over him as his face breaks into that shark’s grin. “Unless you wish to object to that, little morsel.” Goldworthy looks set to faint as Texas Buffalo close ranks, blocking Peak from their manager. Peak just slowly backs away through the corridor, the rictus grin never fading from his face. Grade: C+</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/MightyMo_alt.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/HarryAllen.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/NigelSvensson-1.jpg http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/Events/vs7.jpg http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/EddStone.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/FreddyHuggins.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/FranticAli.jpg w/http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/Vita.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/LauraHuggins.jpg Mighty Mo, Harry Allen & Nigel Svensson vs. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali w/Vita & Laura Huggins</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>The pace in this one is never anything but frantic – hardly surprising in a match with so many high-fliers and natural athletes. The Animal team is… well, it’s hard to describe them as ‘fluent’, but Edd and Freddy can be led back onto the path from their meandering ways with some nudging and prodding from their managers and partner (Ali's interplay with Laura a particular highlight), and when cooperating, they’re a slick duo. For their part, their opponents each play to their individual strengths, Harry Allen acting as the marshal, owing to his tag team experience, and the strategy seems to be working - Allen and Mo matching speed for speed, Svensson the anomaly as he snatches people out of the air and clamps them into wrenching submissions. Working, at least, up until Laura catches Sam Sparrow’s attention and the Animals take the opportunity to rush the ring, smashing into Allen with not one, not two, but THREE simultaneous dropkicks that send him flying across the ring to crash into his corner with a heap. The tag’s made, but without Allen’s shotcalling, Mo and Svensson look green, wary, and easy prey for the teamwork of their enemies. Ali and Huggins run around the ring apron to knock Mo from it as Edd Stone sinks Svensson with the Party’s Over. The Canadian Animals & Xavier Ali def. Mighty Mo, Harry Allen & Nigel Svensson Grade: D+</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JoshuaTaylor.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/TracyBrendon.jpg</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Joshua Taylor is backstage with a young woman, having a quiet conversation. From the way they're standing together and the gentle smiles on their faces, it's fairly obvious that they're with each other in some way (eagle-eyed viewers might note that the woman is wearing a wedding ring). Doakes: Well there have been some rumours... but for my part I can say that that's Tracy Brendon, a fine wrestler on the women's scene. Brendon cracks a joke and Taylor laughs, leaning in to kiss the top of her head before turning away- <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/BryanVessey.jpg</div> Straight into a brutal lariat as Bryan Vessey comes flying into shot. Taylor goes spilling to the floor as Brendon yells out a scream halfway between distress and anger. Vessey lays in the boots to Taylor and Brendon intervenes, jumping in with a right hand so hard that Vessey's head snaps back. His eyes, focused, go to something more wild and dangerous - crazy almost. Vessey straightens up and one-handed, shoves Brendon hard enough to send her to the floor, booting Taylor another couple of times before stalking off. Taylor is left groaning, and after a couple of moments, Brendon rouses to check on him. Grade: C+</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/WolfHawkins.jpgw/http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/BrookeMarsh.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/Events/vs7.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/SammyBach_alt3.jpg Wolf Hawkins w/Brooke Marsh vs. Sammy Bach</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Hawkins opens this one cautiously, knowing very well what Bach is capable of. Bach leans laconically backwards into the ropes, tilting his head to one side, and just watches. There’s a standoff, five seconds, ten… Hawkins scowls and stalks forward and Bach is suddenly in the air, dropkicking Hawkins elegantly with next to no room to jump. Hawkins, here, is out of his element. With so many big bruisers around the championship scene, he’s used to being able to use his speed and agility to keep one step ahead. Against Bach, he’s not only the bigger man, but the slower one too. Wolf is forced to tap into instincts long dormant – All Action days. You can almost see him shift gear in the ring, using more of his high flying repertoire. Bach for his part has a dreamy smile on his face that just grows more pronounced with each big move busts out because… for every one that Hawkins hits, Bach just seems to drift out of the way of another. It’s running close, and by the narrowest of margins – Bach’s in the air for the Adrenaline Shot- No! Pushed away, Bach rises, twists- FULL MOON RISING straight to the head! Hawkins covers and collects the hard fought win. Wolf Hawkins defeated Sammy Bach Grade: B</div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JoeyMinnesota.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/Events/vs7.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/EddiePeak.jpg Joey Minnesota vs. Eddie Peak</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Minnesota is near motionless in the ring. Still, waiting, focused. Peak is never a prospect to be taken lightly, and Minnesota is a man who knows that all too well. Any ex-DaVE fighter is one who remembers the path of destruction Peak carved across the company. Peak spreads his arms wide, beckoning Minnesota, who nods slowly. They lock up. Peak overpowers Minnesota. Minnesota uses his technical nuance to break free and get the advantage. Peak floors him with a mighty shove. Minnesota rolls through with the momentum and is back on his feet again. Another nod. Battle is joined in earnest, and the crowd is into it, responding each time Minnesota narrowly survives a big power move, each time he manages to hook Peak for a suplex or throw. Unlike most, Minnesota actually looks like he can deal lasting damage to the big man. Unlike most, Peak is able to pin Minnesota and deal out punishment. Both men are going to the well, clearly hurting, clearly fighting with what they have. Peak boots Minnesota in the stomach so hard Minnesota goes to the floor. Peak gets crucifix position- PEAK OF- Minnesota slides out the back of it, launching off Peak's shoulders to land on the turnbuckles! He teeters for a moment and then dives off, twisting in midair- MINNESOTA SALUTE! Peak is still on his feet but doesn't know where he is! Minnesota gets in behind him, hooks the legs- hoiiiiists- EMPIRE SPIRAL! Minnesota collapses into the cover and squeaks the three count. Joey Minnesota defeated Eddie Peak Grade: B</div></blockquote> SHOW RATING: B

Blake Trask · February 26, 2014

<div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JoelBryant.jpg</div>

On the one hand, it was genius.

On the other hand, it was tremendously immature.

On the first hand again, it was genius.

At some point during the show - Joel was willing to bet the semi-main event, when Tommy would have been watching Wolf's match, Jasmine Saunders had sneaked into Tommy's office, found his phone, and systematically replaced the name of every single contact with that of a character from Game of Thrones.

Tommy Cornell had a lot of contacts.

In several different ways, Joel was impressed, not least because Saunders hadn't been under any obligation to stay at the show beyond her dark-time commentary duties. In part, he supposed that was the issue. Other than being used sparingly as an interviewer, commentating dark matches with the 'B team' announcers had been the extent of Jasmine's involvement for several months now. She was bored, frustrated, and in need of some venting.

Just... their boss probably wasn't the best person she could have picked to take it all out on. Tommy had practically dragged Joel into his office to deal with it, and was currently pacing like a caged animal.

<div style="text-align:center;">http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/JasmineSaunders.jpghttp://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z453/EddStoneNOTBPW/TCW/TommyCornell.jpg</div>

"Jasmine..."

The young woman looked up and Joel let out a sigh. "I know you're feeling sidelined right now. We're working on getting you more involved, but we can't do that if you're going to make trouble whilst we're asking for patience. Cool off, all right? Channel it into something productive. Hell use the gyms if you're that mad - just don't take it out on other people. Especially not Tommy, he's doing his best."

Saunders held up her hands, looked about to fire off a terse retort, then lowered them both and nodded. "All right, Joel... I hear you. Sorry Mr. Cornell."

Cornell grunted and Saunders made an exit.

Joel's boss immediately gave him a look. "This mess is goin' to take days to -" he broke off as his phone rang, and his mouth pressed into a hard line.

"Give me a sec, Joel.

Ned Stark's callin'."

Rickymex · February 26, 2014

Damn Tommy is the second person I be the most afraid to piss off after Richard Eisen. Jasmine has some balls.

3rdStringPG · February 26, 2014

I was actually thinking it may be Jasmine, since she's got a negative backstage influence. Unfortunately, I was more inclined to think the non-wrestler pissed Tommy off in storyline. <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Great comeback show!

Blake Trask · February 26, 2014

Prediction Standings: <pre class="ipsCode"> Deamon: 7/7 3rdStringPG: 7/7 Rickymex: 7/7 (w/bonus) Liquidswords: 6/7 Smwilliams: 5/7 PhantomStranger: 5/7 Midnightnick: 5/7 </pre><div></div> Thanks for all the predictions guys - they help a lot to see where people are perceived in the eyes of the 'fans'. In any case, relatively straightforward for our first show back... nothing here that was a particularly enormous upset - albeit Rahn was less than happy about taking that loss. (I would also have accepted 'Eric Tyler' for the bonus <img alt=":p" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />). <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="smwilliams" data-cite="smwilliams" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="34946" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div> EDIT TO ADD: Forgot to add that it's good to have you back. You picked up a fan with that short-lived NOTBPW diary which was amazing.</div></blockquote> Happy to be writing again, and yes, Prodigal Stone was great fun... channelling it slightly for my boys the Animals. And yes... I am a Saunders fan, in spite of her being finnicky backstage. When I saw that incident pop up I feared the worst. Thankfully Jasmine responded well and Tommy was not baying for blood, so on that front it wound up being nothing too disastrous. I was a bit worried I'd boosted the locker room too high to be considered 'doomful', but plenty enough has cropped up to keep me and Joel on our toes... watch this space for more.

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