Phantom Stranger Posted November 15, 2015 Author Share Posted November 15, 2015 http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Dangerous/SWF%20Footage/PWA.jpg HGC's HollyWeird brand also has plenty of talent associated with it. Herein, what we know and what we predict... http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/AprilAppleseed_zps17021212.jpg “Apple Pie With Cream” April Applejack From: Ossineke, MI Billed From: Paul Bunyan's Orchard Age: 25 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 3-0-3 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Jack-Knife Powerbomb (Powerbomb into floatover pin) Theme Song: Rednex, Cotton Eye Joe Other Achievements: Former two-time AAA Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #330 Victoria Stone's regular tag team partner for years now, respected in Canada and America, has been reduced to this. Have mercy, Lord, on the bookers who did this. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/AshleyAmazon_zpsdeda8e4a.jpg “The Runway Train” Ashley Amazon (With Dream Girl) From: Reno, NV Billed From: Now Residing In Los Angeles, CA Age: 42 Current Push: Upper Midcarder HGC Record: 10-0-4 Avg Match Rating: D+ Finishers: Amazon Plunge (Second Rope Splash), Amazonian Powerbomb (Running Sitout Powerbomb Theme Song: Bonnie Tyler, Fire In My Soul Other Achievements: Former 2-time JPWW Tag Champion, 1996 Power 500 #245, 1997 Power 500 #319 The lesbian tease combined with the power-and-glamour gimmick is keeping her relevant, and she's got a strong record for her on-camera matches. Still, it's not what I'd call a shining CV this year, and she's likely to be close to retirement. Anointing Victoria Stone... there are worse ways to go out of the company. Rumours of connections to the women's booker Peter Valentine don't help. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/GraceHarper_jhd2-1_zpsf66d48f3.jpg “Warrior Princess” Ayesha From: Boston, MA Billed From: The Lost City of Kor Age: 23 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 2-0-7 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Fisherman's Suplex Theme Song: Joan Jett, Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #313 Less than ten televised matches through 1997 and into 1998. It's a disgraceful misuse of a talented woman, and I say this despite the fact word has it that Grace absolutely loves playing this role. At least she's getting a steady paycheck, but, still... ugh. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/SkullDeBones_jhd2_zps8af8569e.jpg “Lord of the Dead” Azrael (Lilith) From: San Antonio, TX Billed From: The Place of Skulls Age: 26 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 13-1-10 Avg Match Rating: B- Finishers: Epitaph (Tombstone Piledriver) Theme Song: Nine Inch Nails, Dead Souls Other Achievements: Former DaVE Extreme Champion, Former NYCW United States Champion, Former 4-time TWL Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #172, 1997 Power 500 #45 Well, this is a real change for Sean Martyn. Nobody saw DaVE's Avenging Angel turning into something as over-the-top as this, but honestly, the story's been incredibly good for both his and Ricky Dale's exposure, and they've both come on leaps and bounds as competitors. My only worry is whether a gimmick like this can last. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/BryanHolmesHeadband_zps3595bf81.jpg Bryan Holmes From: Toronto, Canada Billed From: Toronto, Canada Age: 27 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 12-1-25 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Cyclone Shock Kick (Backflip Kick), Final Impact (Elevated Release German Suplex) Theme Song: Chemical Brothers, Block Rocking Beat Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #199, 1997 Power 500 #120 What can you say about Bryan Holmes that hasn't been said before? Stone-trained and, like Brent Hill, he's probably hurt by the fact that the Next Generation has been broken up, but he'll have difficulty making himself stand out considering that they both still have the same theme song. He might turn into something of a regular opponent for Rip Chord, though, and honestly? I'm definitely hoping that he does. Those two could have some amazing battles. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/BryanVessey_alt2jt_zps7372f544.jpg Bryan Vessey (The Vessey Brothers) From: Omaha, NE Billed From: Omaha, NE Age: 26 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 27-4-13 Avg Match Rating: B- Finishers: Vessey Driver (Sitout Piledriver) Theme Song: ZZ Top, Got Me Under Pressure Other Achievements: Former 2-time HGC World Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 102, 1997 Power 500 #17 The Vessey Brothers are some of the best wrestlers you could hope to see in the ring, and Bryan has years left to become a legend. I think 1998 should see him doing absolutely fine. You can't mess with a Vessey, even if they've lost their stable. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/ClarkAlexander_alt2_zps2c9c1269.jpg Clark Maverick (The Mavericks) From: Kapolei, HI Billed From: Cannon Beach, OR Age: 22 Current Push: Opener HGC Record: 0-0-4 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Surf's Up (Jumping Rana Driver). Wipe Out (Top Rope Corkscrew Cross Body) Theme Song: DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Boom! Shake The Room Other Achievements: Former PPPW Tri-State Tag Team Champion, Former CZCW SoCal Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #447, 1997 Power 500 #397 Clark “Maverick” and his “brother” John are too much talent to just be a jobber team forever, and while they're losing a lot, the ratings their matches are pulling in points out something important; they're being pitted against top teams and they're entertaining. So don't let a terrible win-loss record fool you on where this company thinks their upper limit is. Drop the high-fiving, ditch the 'college students who do extreme sports' thing – especially as it's just there to explain Clark's tan (He's the surfer! His brother loves to ski! Look at them high five!) - and they'll be ready to explode. And the collapse of the Next Generation even gives them a space to ascend to. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Cobra_zps32619bb8.jpg Cobra (Black Serpent Cult) From: Cincinnati, OH Billed From: The Serpent Temple Age: 52 Current Push: Upper Midcarder HGC Record: 18-1-17 Avg Match Rating: C Finishers: Cobra Constrictor Vice (Short-arm Jawbreaker into Sleeper Hold), Dragon's Breath (Mist Attack) Theme Song: Iron Butterfly, In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida Other Achievements: Former 2-time NYCW Tag Team Champion, Former NYCW World Champion, Former 4-Time SWF Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #84, 1997 Power 500 #92 There is no question in my mind but that being hired by J.K. Stallings has been the best pre-retirement present this duo could have had. They've been wrestling for thirty-four years now, and they're starting to be outclassed – something they could hide in SWF, where the tag scene just isn't that vibrant. But here, they're in a wide field, even restricted to one brand, and they're just not all they were. But they're making money, and if I'm honest I even still enjoy watching them. Look for them to be fed to a team like the Big Cats or the Nation of Filth as a final outing somewhere down the line once they've passed enough torches. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Colossus_zps5c3db96d.jpg “Still Standing” Colossus (Karen Killer) From: Westerly, RI Billed From: The School of Hard Knocks Age: 26 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 8-0-8 Avg Match Rating: C+ Finishers: Death From Above (Top Rope Splash), Double Handed Choke Bomb Theme Song: Marilyn Manson, Antichrist Superstar Other Achievements: Former XFW Blood Brothers Champion, 1997 Power 500 #143 Well, he's not part of Homicide's stable anymore, but he has the same manager. On the other hand – he's the best of the young big men HollyWeird have, and getting better. They have both Dread and a young Dread and if they don't capitalise on that, something's wrong. Expect Colossus to take another couple of losses to Strong before coming over to the good guys because of how well he pops the crowd. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Dallas%20McWade_zps14gy6kje.jpg Dallas McWade (The McWades) From: Revelstoke, Canada Billed From: Revelstoke, Canada Age: 26 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 0-0-0 Avg Match Rating: N/A Finishers: Murder On The Mountain (Charging Lariat) Theme Song: Paul Gross, Ride Forever Other Achievements: Former 3-time CGC World Tag Team Champion, Former NOTBPW Canadian Champion, 1996 Power 500 #420, 1997 Power 500 #97 Dallas has had a breakout year with NOTBPW and CGC, feuding with Steve DeColt over the CGC World Championship and actually winning NOTBPW's Canadian Championship – and holding it until he left for HGC during their preparation to expand their brand. Still, he's apparently set to be teamed with his brother again, which may or may not bring his ascent crashing back down. He has the potential, but we have literally nothing to go on regarding how the McWades will fare in HollyWeird yet... http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/DarkAngel_zpsfc3c8a5f.jpg “Swift Shadow” Dark Angel From: Newcastle, England Billed From: The Silver City Age: 27 Current Push: Upper Midcarder HGC Record: 10-0-13 Avg Match Rating: C+ Finishers: Descent Into Hell (Spinning Double Underhook Driver) Theme Song: Gerard McMann – Cry Little Sister Other Achievements: Former 2-Time MOSC UK Champion, 1996 Power 500 #27, 1997 Power 500 #58 Spending 1997 in such a weird storyline... I don't know what it means for Cliff Wilson, but things have worked out well for him so far. If they've any sanity at all they'll feature him heavily; he's already producing great matches and will only get better. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/DarkEagle_zps9e60e0ce.jpg Dark EAGLE (Shining Force) From: Yokohama, Japan Billed From: Tokyo, Japan Age: 32 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 3-0-33 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Eagle Shock (Cutter) Theme Song: Hanshan Bell, Buddhist Peace Song Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #40, 1997 Power 500 #155 Part of the Spirit Warriors to begin with, when Golden Scorpion left he was paided with the less-over Great Hisato, and I'm not sure you could really say he's recovered. On the other hand, as we're saying a lot – good solid tag teamer, could do well with a cruiserweight run, just needs the chance to wrestle to get over. You can't complain too hard about someone like that. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Dean%20McWade_zpspygbeaff.jpg Dean McWade (The McWades) From: Revelstoke, Canada Billed From: Revelstoke, Canada Age: 26 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 0-0-0 Avg Match Rating: N/A Finishers: Canadian Lariat (Short-arm Lariat) Theme Song: Paul Gross, Ride Forever Other Achievements: Former 3-time CGC World Tag Team Champion, Former NOTBPW Tag Team Champion, 1997 Power 500 #119 The weaker prospect out of the two McWades is still a very good prospect. While he's had less grooming for a solo run, his NOTBPW tag honours – something his brother can't boast – were with Thomas Morgan, who for a time was one of HollyWeird's favourite undercarders, and Dean looks to have spent that time under the learning tree. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/DemonAnger_zpsa653156f.jpg Demon Anger (The Demons of Rage) From: St. Paul, MN Billed From: The Asylum Age: 38 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 17-1-14 Avg Match Rating: C+ Finishers: Demon Slam (Dominator), Double Demon Down (Assisted High Elevation Inverted Flapjack) Theme Song: Rage Against The Machine, Bombtrack Other Achievements: Former 2-time CGC World Tag Team Champion, Former DaVE Extreme Champion, former NOTBPW Tag Team Champion, Former GCG Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #134, 1997 Power 500 #66 I'm waiting for the Demons to get their tag team title run here. It could happen any time, and when it does we're likely to see them dominant except against Strong. These guys are probably the best individual tag team currently on HollyWeird's payroll in terms of fan reaction, experience as a duo, and current skill and physical fitness levels. Now, watch me say basically the same thing for his partner. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/DemonSpite_zps34f2d91f.jpg Demon Spite (The Demons of Rage) From: Louisville, KY Billed From: The Asylum Age: 40 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 17-1-14 Avg Match Rating: C+ Finishers: Demon Slam (Dominator), Double Demon Down (Assisted High Elevation Inverted Flapjack) Theme Song: Rage Against The Machine, Bombtrack Other Achievements: Former 2-time CGC World Tag Team Champion, former NOTBPW Tag Team Champion, Former GCG Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #142, 1997 Power 500 #70 I'm waiting for the Demons to get their tag team title run here. It could happen any time, and when it does we're likely to see them dominant except against Strong. These guys are probably the best individual tag team currently on HollyWeird's payroll in terms of fan reaction, experience as a duo, and current skill and physical fitness levels. Spite is a little older, and a little less retentive of his upside, but there really isn't much in it. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/DougPeak_jhd20LE_zpsc896edd5.jpg “Dangerous” Doug Stardust From: Yonkers, NY Billed From: The School Of Hard Knocks Age: 18 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 4-0-15 Avg Match Rating: D+ Finishers: House of Horrors (Swinging Side Slam) Theme Song: Babylon Zoo, Fire Guided Light Other Achievements: Former XFW Blood Brothers Champion, Former LSW Tag Champion, 1997 Power 500 #299 Debuting in mid 1996, Doug Stardust still hasn't been pro for two full years, but in that time he's picked up two tag team titles with brother Eddie. Now he's out of a team – or is he? Unlike brother Eddie, he's now announced from somewhere else, and while he doesn't share a theme song or a manager with the guy he's announced beside, it's genuinely possible they're planning some kind of alliance. Doug is a genuinely nice guy and he learns fast – and to get anywhere on the HollyWeird brand, he may need both of those things to go in his favour. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Electrico_zpsc9bc57de.png “The Most Electrifying Man In Lucha Libre” Electrico From: Morelia, Mexico Billed From: Morelia, Mexico Age: 22 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 36-0-15 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Electric Shock (Springboard Cutter) Theme Song: Santana, Put Your Lights On Other Achievements: Former HGC Cruiserweight Champion, Former MPWF Campeon de Parejas, 1996 Power 500 #235. 1997 Power 500 #139 Mr Lucha's anointed protege has gotten the kind of push you'd hope for out of that, with his biggest feud to date being the sadly underwhelming run against Rocky Constantino, and with his battle with Pablo Rodriguez now on hold being the big knocks against him. He can carry his weight, though, and has one of the better win-loss records around thanks to his time with Mr Lucha. And we've learned that HollyWeird loves guys who can sell masks. But if you're asking me if he'll sink or swim? My sad guess is he'll sink. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/ErnieTurner_zpsed104e79.jpg “The Slick Pimp Daddy” Ernie Turner (The Family) From: Staten Island, NY Billed From: Brooklyn Age: 23 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 5-0-9 Avg Match Rating: D+ Finishers: Slick Pimp Spike (Tornado DDT) Theme Song: The Godfather Waltz Other Achievements: Former New England Tag Team Champion, Former 2-Time AMW Tag Team Champion, Former AMW World Heavyweight Champion, 1996 Power 500 #430, 1997 Power 500 #409 Ernie Turner has developed his skills substantially from his days in AMW, but that was probably necessary just to count as a wrestler. He's filled out into quite a solid midcarder and his Hustlers team with Roger Cage gives him some value on the card, but he's got a long way to go. Turner and Cage are still advertised as part of Frankie Future's Family, so where that goes, we're not yet sure – although supposedly title holders are free to move between brands, meaning if they want to protect the Chairman from the Baddest, they have a reason to buck for the belts. Good luck THERE, though... http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/FumihiroOta_alt1_zpsd1a2b2b2.jpg Fumihiro Ota From: Venice Beach, CA Billed From: Mount Fuji, Japan Age: 23 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 1-0-22 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Ninja Strike (Throat Thrust into Swinging Neckbreaker) Theme Song: Alfredo Chan Singers, The Legend Of The Ninja Other Achievements: Former King of the Indies, Former 3-time CZCW SoCal Champion, former CZCW SoCal Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #318, 1997 Power 500 #206 I thought Ota was overpraised in his time with CZCW, but I couldn't deny he was learning there – and he's been learning in HGC, too, and he's getting a lot better. His team with Super Joshuya has been good for both men but, more than most in HollyWeird, they've picked up a jobber stigma and this split was arguably the best way to end that. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/GhenghisRahn_zps9d0ab301.jpg “The Arizona Assassin” Genghis Rahn (Aggressive Tendencies) From: Gilbert, Arizona Billed From: Mesa, Arizona Age: 28 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 1-0-17 Avg Match Rating: C Finishers: Rahn To The Hills (Running Spinebuster) Theme Song: Waylon Jennings, Rebel Soldier Other Achievements: Former King of the Deathmatch, Former TWL Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #414, 1997 Power 500 #195 So we can't keep the Next Generation or the Peaks/Stardusts, but we can keep Aggressive Tendencies? Riiiiiiight. Well, actually, that's unfair – Rahn has been blossoming as a wrestler, particularly on the house circuit (where he's ACTUALLY ALLOWED TO WIN SOMETIMES) through teaming with The Natural, who's slowly coming to be a worker the fans love to hate as they get used to him. Still and all, Rahn isn't the worker I want him to be, and he's succeeded out of proportion to his talent, based off his look. I really, really want him to impress me. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/GiantRedwood_zpse99a3042.jpg “Immovable” Giant Redwood (Parks and Wreck) From: Galveston, TX Billed From: Galveston, TX Age: 32 Current Push: Upper Midcarder HGC Record: 18-0-10 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Standing Splash Theme Song: Eazy-E. Real Muthaphukkin' Gs Other Achievements: Current HGC International Champion, 1997 Power 500 #180 He's got a winning record. He's got a winning record and a title. He made it into the top 200 of the Power 500. What stark treachery is this? http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/TimWestybrook_alt_zpsdcdc19fd.jpg Grinder (The Maple Leafs) From: Frenchman's Cove, Newfoundland, Canada Billed From: Toronto, Canada Age: 22 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 1-0-20 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Double Powerbomb, Penalty Kill (Gorilla Press Sideslam) Theme Song: Tom Cochrane, Big League Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #323, 1997 Power 500 #211 Well, the Iron Man hasn't been allowed to live up to his full potential, but he shares that with so many. He's got the strength, the technical nous, the crowd seems to love him – he would've fitted better into Whistler's slot than Whistler did, if they'd only built him up first. Still, the shakeup in the tag ranks should see him get more work; I'd love to see the Leafs take a few passes at the Specialists, even unsuccessful passes. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Grunt_zpsfda90b15.jpg Grunt (The Nation of Filth) From: Fort Smith, AR Billed From: The Landfill Age: 25 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 14-0-20 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Dump Truck (Running Powerslam) Theme Song: ZZ Top, Beer Drinkers And Hell Raisers Other Achievements: Former XFW Blood Brothers Champion, 1997 Power 500 #224 Freshly backed by Richie Pangrazzio, the Nation seem in line for a strong push. That said, the tiers of teams above them are going to hurt that... but maybe they can work their way up to the top tier? Hard to say. That said, Grunt is substantially better than he was last year, so who knows? This might even work. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/HollywoodMikeKinsey_zps1bacdfab.jpg Hollywood Mike Kinsey From: Los Angeles, CA Billed From: Hollywood Age: 49 Current Push: Upper Midcarder HGC Record: 3-0-5 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Final Cut (Inverted Leg Drop Bulldog) Theme Song: Kool & The Gang – Hollywood Swinging Other Achievements: Former 3-Time SWF World Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #188, 1997 Power 500 #217 I know! He's been pulled away from the Player's Club! He's probably retiring soon! So I don't know what's going on there, and looking over the roster I'm not even sure who he could mentor and give a rub to – maybe The Natural if Aggressive Tendencies didn't exist. A heel turned Jackie P or Mario Heroic? I don't even know. To me, cutting Kinsey off from the Player's Club is the most inexpicable of all their moves. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/HumanArsenal_alt1_zpsc672d01e.jpg Human Arsenal (Heavy Duty) From: Sacramento, CA Billed From: Sacramento, CA Age: 22 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 9-0-25 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Ammo Dump (Double-Arm DDT) Theme Song: The Crystal Method, Busy Other Achievements: Current HGC Cruiserweight Champion, 1996 Power 500 #250, 1997 Power 500 #160 Jimmy Power's oddest feud turned into a protege and a tag team for Power to manage, and the winning streak that begat has given the Arsenal the Cruiserweight Championship. Even if he IS a little too big for it by most standards – but then, so was Romeo Heartthrob, and that didn't stop anyone. Has real potential to go far. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/James%20Prudence%202_zps4wvfzrdz.jpg (Alt credit to Asaemon) “Super Sensation” Jackie P (Coast 2 Coast) From: Modesto, CA Billed From: Modesto, CA Age: 18 Current Push: Opener HGC Record: 1-0-17 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: All Star Lock (Straightjacket Crossface), Cannonball Splash (Rolling Pop-Up Splash) Theme Song: The Surfaris, Wipe Out Other Achievements: 1997 Power 500 #288 The more serious former Sweet Sensation, Jackie adopted the All-Star Lock as a signature during the Young Tag Olympics to try and win over the judge, though it wasn't enough. However, this apparent alliance with young rookie Sammy Bach could be just the thing he needs, although expect Coast 2 Coast to be in the doldrums for a while – but there's real talent there, and it'll ripen with time. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/JimmyPower_zpsf9cfcc1c.jpg Jimmy Power From: Memphis, TN Billed From: Memphis, TN Age: 53 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 19-0-8 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Powerbomb Deathlock (Powerbomb into Scorpion Deathlock) Theme Song: Snap, I Got The Power Other Achievements: Current NYCW World Champion, Current PWC Champion, 1996 Power 500 #119, 1997 Power 500 #201 Wrestlers don't usually get retirement runs like this. Jimmy Power is working for five different companies, one of which is the number 2 in the US. He's champion in two others. He's been given two proteges and an easy sidestep into management. He's one of the few people who, in HollyWeird, has an overall winning record. And while he's slowing down, he... kind of deserves it? Very much part of the more traditional side of HollyWeird storytelling, though. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/JoelBryant_zps9ad5f3db.jpg “Straight Shooter” Joel Bryant (The Untouchables) From: Jacksonville, NC Billed From: Jacksonville, NC Age: 27 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 55-0-12 Avg Match Rating: C Finishers: One Shot Drop (Falcon Arrow) Theme Song: Faith No More, Surprise You're Dead Other Achievements: Former GCG World Heavyweight Tag Team Champion, Current HGC World Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #223, 1997 Power 500 #81 You can really see who it is who's had to carry the shows of this company when you look at that win-loss record. The Untouchables have shown enough flexibility to work with the wild and the believable ends of HollyWeird both, and they'll give a good match – and that's made them major players. I doubt that'll change any time soon. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/JohnMaverick_alt1_zps2f5b46ff.jpg John Maverick (The Mavericks) From: Calgary, Alberta, Canada Billed From: Cannon Beach, OR Age: 22 Current Push: Opener HGC Record: 0-0-4 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: X-Wave (Running Discus Punch), Ultimate T-Bone (T-Bone Suplex), Triangle Choke Theme Song: DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Boom Shake The Room Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #358. 1997 Power 500 #220 The Silent Threat recast as a ski and snowboard aficionado college kid who wrestles for pure adrenaline and high-fives his brother all the damn time? It's not the way I'd have gone, far from it, but, well... there's a part of me that laughs. He's got some great finishers, if you get down to a house show, you might see them. Teamwork is solid and they're tipped for the top. Be warned, though; Shane Sneer is determined to teach John to cut a promo, and that's happening at house shows, and you don't want to see it. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/KitHatoyama_zps51506e94.jpg Kamikaze Kit From: Tokyo, Japan Billed From: Yokohama, Japan Age: 25 Current Push: Enhancement Talent HGC Record: 1-0-10 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Hatoyama Driver (Scoop Death Valley Driver) Theme Song: Hitomi, In The Future Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #177, 1997 Power 500 #378 I say this a lot when it comes to the so-called HollyWeird Girls, but this is one of the cases where it's truest; this is a waste. She can go. She just needs the stage to prove it. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/JoelKovach_zpsf86f8759.jpg Killer Kovach (The Untouchables) From: Wilmington, DE Billed From: Chicago, IL Age: 28 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 2-0-8 Avg Match Rating: C Finishers: Kovach Krippler (Camel Clutch), Palm Strike, Spinning Back Fist Theme Song: Faith No More, Surprise You're Dead Other Achievements: A fanboy made good, Joel Kovach has received the highly old-school “Killer” style gimmick rebranding. The same black tights as the rest of the Untouchables. A brutal hybrid of old-school Southern wrestling and Japanese strong style. And the support and training of the other Untouchables. He may be their fall guy, but Kovach should be one to watch... in a year or four. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/LarryVessey_alt2jt_zps24235830.jpg Larry Vessey From: Omaha, NE Billed From: Omaha, NE Age: 39 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 27-4-13 Avg Match Rating: B- Finishers: Sick Cycle (Jumping Pump Kick) Theme Song: ZZ Top, Got Me Under Pressure Other Achievements: Former CGC World Champion, former 2-time HGC World Tag Team Champion, former 2-time TWL Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #75, 1997 Power 500 #18 A seasoned competitor with years left in the tank, Larry's time in the tag division seems likely to be a way to elevate Bryan further before both men enter the running for the singles championships. As both are too good to wholly pass over, that seems like a good idea – and one we probably couldn't have had under the previous Strong-Nemesis roster splits, but now, it seems reasonable. I anticipate a Vessey on each roster before too long. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/RavenNightfall_Self2_zpscad3210d.jpg “The Angel of the Dark” Lilith (Azrael) From: Houston, TX Billed From: The Place Of Skulls Age: 22 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: N/A Avg Match Rating: N/A Finishers: Skull Krusher (Sit-Out Brainbuster) Theme Song: Nine Inch Nails, Dead Souls Other Achievements: We're told she's wrestled under a hood at house shows, and it's from there that we gather she knows how to do Vengeance's old finish, but there's honestly no way for us to judge this woman. She's not someone we can make any predictions for. Hopefully she'll do well, but as with Azrael, you have to ask: How long can this gimmick possibly go? http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/AmericanBuffalo_Nachtfalter2_zps9342372c.jpg “Buffalo Stampede” Marcus Bowen (Heavy Duty) From: Scranton, PA Billed From: New York City Age: 24 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 11-0-11 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Spear, Spinebuster Theme Song: The Crystal Method, Busy Other Achievements: Former NYCW United States Champion, 1996 Power 500 #431, 1997 Power 500 #237 The former running mate of Tyson “BLZ Bubb” Baine, Bowen (not his real name either) has been a welcome sight in a lot of his matches, and is another of the prototypical new wave of big men that HGC seem to be chasing; the ones with enough speed to be a change from the old pattern, who can take Bowen's “Strike Hard, Strike Early, Strike Fast” catchphrase and make it mean something. If he needs anything it's something to make him a bit less just-one-more-of-those-guys. He doesn't always stand out. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/MarioHeroic_zps2c5b8a61.jpg “California Kid” Mario Heroic From: Huntington Beach, CA Billed From: Huntington Beach, CA Age: 19 Current Push: Opener HGC Record: 0-0-26 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Hero Attack (Springboard Spinning Uppercut) Theme Song: Mamas And Papas, California Dreaming Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #477, 1997 Power 500 #283 Surely this is the worst in-ring record of anyone to break number 300 on the Power 500. And yet Heroic's been a useful part of good matches, just always on the losing end – doing worse than any other contracted HGC grappler. Hard to believe he got the same opening presenation, at the same time, as Aaron Mustafa. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/MaskedPatriot_zpsb6833042.jpg “America's Most Wanted” Masked Patriot From: Zanesville, OH Billed From: Philadelphia, PA Age: 27 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 13-0-12 Avg Match Rating: B Finishers: Patriot Slam (Scoop Powerslam) Theme Song: Orchestral, Fanfare for the Common Man Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #132, 1997 Power 500 #25 The first invader and a startlingly successful heel, Patriot doesn't have his allies to depend on anymore, but has a pretty good starting point to press on from. I don't see him being unmaksed before 1998 is out, but I'm willing to bet someone will try. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/PaulSteadyfast_zps24fcbe23.jpg “Capo” Paul Steadyfast (The Untouchables) From: Raleigh, NC Billed From: Raleigh, NC Age: 22 Current Push: Upper Midcarder HGC Record: 15-0-14 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Slingshot Suplex Theme Song: Faith No More, King For A Day Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #413, 1997 Power 500 #167 He's not the top success story of the Untouchables but I'd argue he's achieved beyond what anyone expected this year. Nice run with Monty Walker, but it seems like people are queueing up to chase him, so maybe that shouldn't count. Good enough wrestler, and likely to keep improving if he remembers he's stood next to Robert Oxford. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/RamonPaez_zps26a5bf95.jpg “Comeback King” Ramon Paez From: Scranton, NJ Billed From: Jersey City, NJ Age: 24 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 0-1-14 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Super Kick Theme Song: Cypress Hill, Lock Down Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #312, 1997 Power 500 #346 Better known, really, for his Philly Power Pro work despite the fact that's not on TV, Ramon's one of the few still not on a written contract, like Walker, and he's doing well enough for himself there. Still, the moniker Comeback King is largely an invention – he has a few house show wins, but so does almost everyone – and he's likely to stay that way under Strong. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/ReesePaige_zps57e721ec.jpg “Real Piece” Reese From: Hamilton, MN Billed From: Hamilton, MN Age: 23 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 2-0-5 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Over the Shoulder Backbreaker, Octopus Stretch Theme Song: New Edition, Candy Girl Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #215 It's a shame – a real shame – to see someone who was in the top half of the 500 drop off the list entirely. And Reese can be much more. But the climate isn't there these days. I guess what we have to do is just enjoy the dancing; we at least get that. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/RipChord_zpsa22d8f99.jpg “Wrestling's Lethal Weapon” Rip Chord From: Charlotte, NC Billed From: Charlotte, NC Age: 48 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 49-1-11 Avg Match Rating: B Finishers: Rip Chord DDT (DDT) Theme Song: Mendelssohn, War March of The Priests Other Achievements: Former 2-time AAFW Champion, former 2-time APWF Heavyweight Champion, former CWF National Champion, former GCG World Heavyweight Champion, former 2-time TWL Champion, former 3-time SWF World Heavyweight Champion, 1996 Veteran Wrestler of the Year, 1996 Power 500 #7, 1997 Power 500 #14 Just reread that. Reread that and tell me that Rip Chord is not delivering on every level you could conceivably ask of him. He'll be on top for some years yet, and he'll deliver all the way through. There really isn't much that needs saying, but I'll add this; he put Thomas Morgan over hard. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/RobertOxford_alt5_zpsfd717e73.jpg “The Tag Team Master” Robert Oxford (The Untouchables) From: Tallahassee, FL Billed From: Tallahassee, FL Age: 37 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 59-0-13 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Top Rope Knee Drop Theme Song: Faith No More, Surprise You're Dead Other Achievements: Former 2-Time CGC World Tag Team Champion, former GCG World Heavyweight Tag Team Champion, former 2-time NOTBPW Tag Team Champion, Former NYCW Tag Team Champion, Former NYCW United States Champion, Current HGC World Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #71, 1997 Power 500 #85 I've been singing the praises of the Untouchables this whole time, and this man here is the lynchpin of why. Everyone's better when they're in the ring with Robert Oxford. He's got years left to go and a slew of decorations few would envy. His current trainees – and make no mistake, that's what the Untouchables are – will reach that pinnacle too. Bet on it. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/RogerCage_zpsea4218da.jpg “Pure Steel” Roger Cage (The Family) From: Queens, NY Billed From: Queens, NY Age: 20 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 5-0-10 Avg Match Rating: D+ Finishers: Cage Rage (STO Off The Ropes) Theme Song: The Godfather Waltz Other Achievements: Former 2-time AMW World Tag Team Champion, Former New England Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #484, 1997 Power 500 #414 See comments on Ernie Turner, except that Cage has better fundamentals. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/SaionjiOmura_zps6321d7de.jpg “The Crazy One” Saionji Omura From: Hakodate, Japan Billed From: Hakodate, Japan Age: 50 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 0-0-6 Avg Match Rating: C Finishers: Collapsing Piledriver Theme Song: Steppenwolf, Born To Be Wild Other Achievements: Former 2-Time AAFW Champion, Former CWF National Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #261, 1997 Power 500 #174 “The Crazy One” was, so the scuttlebutt has it, brought in to be another candidate in the Hardcore division. This is... a shameful use of a once great veteran even if, in fairness, he really can't wrestle so well anymore. There's another two years on his contract but I truly doubt he'll make it; he hasn't won at house shows either, but at least there he's showing youngster something. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/SamStrong_agerY3_zpse7368410.jpg “The Ultimate Hero” Sam Strong From: Boston, MA Billed From: Los Angeles, CA Age: 51 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 30-0-13 Avg Match Rating: B Finishers: Strong Arm Tactic (Explosive Lariat) Theme Song: “America's Hero – HGC Remix” Other Achievements: Former Burning World Champion, Former 4-Time SWF World Heavyweight Champion, Former HGC World Heavyweight Champion, 1996 Power 500 #13, 1997 Power 500 #19 The past two years have seen Sam finally start to be outdone by Rip Chord, which won't be making him happy, and rumours and dirt from within HGC have started to tarnish the image of the ultimate hero to a degree, but as you can see – he still delivers in the ring, even if he does get the win wherever possible. Two kayfabe 'injuries' in one year's span have kept him from really outdoing Rip. With Nemesis now firmly running another show, it seems likely that Strong will want to do something big – although as the champion is booked on both shows, will he risk another title reign? http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Sammy%20Bach%202_zpswowxpemg.jpg (Alt credit to Asaemon) “The Sensei of Sensation” Sammy Bach (Coast 2 Coast) From: Commack, NY Billed From: Westhampton Beach, NY Age: 19 Current Push: Enhancement Talent HGC Record: 0-0-1 Avg Match Rating: C Finishers: Bach On Your Back (Piggy-Back Sleeper Hold), Splashbach (Tope Rope Twisting Splash) Theme Song: The Surfaris, Wipe Out Other Achievements: 1997 Power 500 #450 Just one TV outing for the Sensei of Sensation, and against Rip Chord – and nobody will ever say that's an entirely unbiased assessment of a wrestler's potential. He's had barely a year in the business, but he's spent most of it at LSW, the development territory Stallings sponsors, and reports from fans there over 1997 suggest he's greatly improved in his ability to hold up his end of a match. Time will tell if he can flourish on TV. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/SidStreets_zps88e7cf04.jpg Sid “The Kid” Streets From: Reno, NV Billed From: Las Vegas, NV Age: 41 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 24-2-8 Avg Match Rating: B Finishers: Road to Freedom (Superkick) Theme Song: Nirvana, Come As You Are Other Achievements: Former SWF North American Champion, Former 4-Time SWF World Tag Team Champion, Former HGC World Heavyweight Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #12, 1997 Power 500 #11 The Kid may never have clasped the top title in the SWF, but that hasn't stopped a lot of fans hoping he would. It seems like the feud between him and Christian Faith will continue for a while, with Faith working matches and regular promos on his own brand and using champions' prerogative to feature on HollyWeird. With luck we'll see successor feud seeds planted, and if they're very smart they'll use the prerogative rule to get back to the days when you'd see Richard Eisen lay two potential storylines out only for one to fall by the wayside according to the feud... http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/JoeyPoison_alt_zpsfbaa3728.jpg Slapshot (The Maple Leafs) From: Toronto, Canada Billed From: Toronto, Canada Age: 20 Current Push: Opener HGC Record: 1-0-14 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Power Play (Rope Rebound Flying Shoulderblock) Theme Song: Tom Cochrane, Big League Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #367, 1997 Power 500 #244 The Maple Leafs have been good jobbers this past year, making the Tag Team Specialists in particular look even more like a million dollars than ever before, and in my opinion they're due a step up. Possibly indicative of this is what's been happening in the occasional house show battle royal, where the teammates nailing a signature lift-and-clothesline they call Crashing the Crease is a reliable mid-match pop, with Grinder holding a bigger name against the ropes and Slapshot delivering the clothesline to send him over the top, Slapshot himself ending the move sat on the middle rope holding the top one. Sure, they get kicked out not long after, but the company is testing the response to them and it seems to be good. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Stink_zps5ad7b696.jpg Stink (The Nation Of Filth) From: Boise, ID Billed From: The Landfill Age: 23 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 14-0-20 Avg Match Rating: D+ Finishers: Stink Bomb (Spinning Powerbomb) Theme Song: ZZ Top, Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers Other Achievements: Former XFW Blood Brothers Champion, 1997 Power 500 #223 The less impressive Nation member, Stink has a good look and... well, that's not all of it, but it's a lot. He's putting in the work but he's already a lot higher than the ceiling he deserves. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/TheGreatHisato_zps07b1875c.jpg The Great Hisato (Shining Force) From: Kitakyushu, Japan Billed From: Kitakyushu, Japan Age: 25 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 1-0-21 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Mystic Dragon Wave (High-angle Swanton) Theme Song: Hanshan Bell, Buddhist Peace Song Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #135, 1997 Power 500 #101 We ranked Hisato maybe a little higher than we should have this past Power 500, but there was a reason; we were allowing for him settling in to a more American style. It's taken him a while to do, and personally, I'd say managing it has been transformative; he looks better in the ring and performs better now. With a little support, Shining Force could be major players; without, they'll give us entertaining matches. And another benefit to his HGC run; Nemesis appears to have crushed his infamous ego... http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/TheNatural_alt2_zps425d7f29.jpg “Marksman” The Natural (Aggressive Tendencies) From: Saint Albans, VT Billed From: Castleton, VT Age: 26 Current Push: Enhancement Talent HGC Record: 1-0-13 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Head Shot (Superkick), Execution Day (Grounded Flip Inverted Chancery) Theme Song: Waylon Jennings, Rebel Soldier Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #234, 1997 Power 500 #291 http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/TroyTornado_zps14859227.jpg “Force Ten” Troy Tornado (The Untouchables) From: Venice Beach, CA Billed From: Venice Beach, CA Age: 20 Current Push: Midcarder HGC Record: 3-0-12 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Star Maker (Springboard Lariat) Theme Song: The Scorpions, Rock You Like A Hurricane Other Achievements: 1996 Power 500 #462, 1997 Power 500 #188 Sure, a lot of what's pushed him up the Power 500 is his DaVE work, but a lot of what's gotten him over with the DaVE crowd is recognition from HollyWeird, and being positioned as one of the Untouchables seems like a wink to the DaVE crowd that he should be taken seriously. All the same, he appears to be almost ready to emerge from his jobber period, and when that happens it's anyone's guess how long before someone locks him into an exclusive deal. His CZCW work is the weakest of his three current runs. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/VictoriaStone_zps3d01e33d.jpg “Heart of Stone” Victoria From: Calgary, Alberta Billed From: The House Of Stone Age: 23 Current Push: Upper Midcarder HGC Record: 14-0-5 Avg Match Rating: C- Finishers: Stone Special (Octopus Stretch), Stone's Throw (Release German Suplex) Theme Song: No Doubt, Just A Girl Other Achievements: Former 2-time AAA Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #147, 1997 Power 500 #268 Arguably the only female wrestler who's getting a chance to show even half of what she's capable of on the biggest stage women have in North America, Victoria Stone is still only getting the chance to do about half of what she's capable of, and what happened to her Power 500 value reflects that. I personally wish she'd gone to Nemesis, where I imagine the womens' booker would be encouraged to step up the womens' game more than a little. They haven't even been given the dignity of a title to chase... http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Viper_zps85b94dc4.jpg Viper (The Black Serpent Cult) From: Cincinnati, OH Billed From: The Serpent Temple Age: 52 Current Push: Upper Midcarder HGC Record: 16-1-17 Avg Match Rating: C Finishers: Dragon's Breath (Mist Attack), Snakebite Roundhouse Kick Theme Song: Iron Butterfly, In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida Other Achievements: Former NYCW Tag Team Champion, former 4-time SWF Tag Team Champion, 1996 Power 500 #90, 1997 Power 500 #91 Viper's rankings and performance have been more or less unchanged by his jumping ship, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him get a brief solo run when Cobra either hangs up the boots or is considered by management to have fallen so low in performance that they pull a Richie Pangrazzio with him. What would delight me, however, in that situation would be the Black Cobra's return. If only anyone knew where he's gone since being forced out of the company... http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/Whistler_zps6c0099f7.jpg “Philly's Own” “The Fighting American” Whistler (Louis “The Worm” Williams) From: Philadelphia, PA Billed From: The Birthplace of America Age: 36 Current Push: Main Eventer HGC Record: 21-0-23 Avg Match Rating: C+ Finishers: Rebel Yell (Roaring Elbow), Star Spangled Hammer (Double-Handed Hammer Blow) Theme Song: Bon Jovi, Rockin' In The Free World Other Achievements: Former 2-time PPPW Tri-State Champion, 1996 Power 500 #228, 1997 Power 500 #48 If there's anyone in HollyWeird who is patently punching above their weight, it's Whistler, with Peter Valentine a close second and Giant Redwood in third. Like Valentine, Whistler's being booked to make the most of his strengths. Both men still have some time to grow into their roles, but Whistler isn't there yet, though Liberty brought him along strongly. If he can continue to grow, he might make it; if not, then he should treasure the memories of last year and next year, as they'll stand as his ultimate career peak. http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everest-2_zps3efcef28.jpg Yellowstone (Parks and Wreck) From: Blanchard, OK Billed From: Blanchard, OK Age: 24 Current Push: Lower Midcarder HGC Record: 1-0-0 Avg Match Rating: D Finishers: Mountain Mover (Samoan Drop) Theme Song: Eazy-E, Real Muthaphukkin Gs Other Achievements: N/A Briefly with NYCW as a special attraction, the former Elmer Kelly spent most of 1997 in LSW hoping to be called up to HGC. In that time, he only once reached the heights of his one HGC match to date, and that in a tag match featuring Rolling Johnny Stones and Danny Patterson, two Brits you should probably try trading for tapes of. He's improved his repertoire of moves and even throws the occasional ugly-as-sin dropkick, but his fundamentals are atrocious and he gasses even faster than Redwood. And yet indications are that the pair are likely to win and keep winning for a while. At least you know when to take your bathroom breaks. Just be quick – they gas so quickly you won't have long. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SuperOwens Posted November 16, 2015 Share Posted November 16, 2015 I missed this coming back and have just caught up. I'm hoping you keep going with the diary as it really is excellent. I particularly enjoy the fact that it really is narrative driven rather than just playing the game as best you can and then coming up with narrative based on that. An example of this is with the women, you obviously have the talent to make a very successful women's diversion but instead have decided to basically hold them down and use them more for sex appeal. Not unlike reality. Looking forward to seeing how Strong ends up booking himself as well! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phantom Stranger Posted November 21, 2015 Author Share Posted November 21, 2015 http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm75/trenchcoatbrigand/Everybody%20Knows/HGC%20Guys/HGC_zps9a894c88.jpg Thursday night is the night we invite you all to walk HollyWeird Boulevard with us. And what a night we have! Heavy Duty take on the new team of Coast 2 Coast in what's sure to be a foreshadowing of things to come. Jimmy Power's lackeys have already put in a strong showing and are shaping up to be a great team in the future, while Coast 2 Coast have wowed the crowds in Lightning Strike Wrestling before becoming part of the HollyWeird legacy. The International Championship is on the line next as Giant Redwood vows to continue his policy of weekly championship defences. His challenger this week? Bryan Holmes, a great talent fresh to singles competition. Aggressive Tendencies have had difficulties making headway in tag or singles competition despite all the talent in the world. It may have just become even harder, as one of the toughest teams in Canada are their opponents this week. Look out, everyone; the McWade Brothers have arrived. In what may well be the mismatch of the night, young team the Mavericks take on the terrifying duo of Azrael and Colossus. More terrifying still? The Mavericks asked for the match... Another championship will be defended, as HGC Hardcore Champion Aaron Mustafa has answered the challenge of Roger Cage. Mustafa also becomes the first Invincible wrestler to cross brands, entering the history books. Will Cage bring the Hardcore Championship back to The Family? Following the events of the Young Tag Olympics Richie Pangrazzio has been mentoring the Nation of Filth, seeking to outdo with them what his father achieved with the Vesseys. Since he started training them on Monday, don't expect too much change from this match with Shining Force - but it should still show us the shape of things to come. Something a little unusual here, and in the HGC.com bunker we still have no word on why this contest was booked, but Whistler will engage in a Handicap Match against the duo of Troy Tornado and Killer Kovach from the Untouchables. Needless to say, we're trying to get to the bottom of this. The Black Serpent Cult do battle with longtime rivals the Demons of Rage in the semi-main event. All young and potential tag teams owe it to themselves to watch contests like this and learn from the masters. And lastly, our main event will deliver 5-man team action. Christian Faith, Dark Angel, Sam Strong and the Vessey Brothers face the Masked Patriot, Sid Streets, Teddy Flame and the Tag Team Specialists. That one is sure to be a humdinger, quite possibly THE humdinger - so don't miss out! Prediction Key: Coast 2 Coast (Sammy Bach & Jackie P) vs. Heavy Duty (Human Arsenal & Marcus Bowen) w/ Jimmy Power HGC International Championship Giant Redwood © w/ Yellowstone vs. Bryan Holmes Aggressive Tendencies (Genghis Rahn & The Natural) vs. The McWade Brothers (Dallas & Dean McWade) Azrael & Colossus w/ Karen Killer & Lilith vs. The Mavericks (Clark & John Maverick) HGC Hardcore Championship - HARDCORE MATCH Aaron Mustafa © vs. Roger Cage w/ Ernie Turner The Nation Of Filth (Grunt & Stink) w/ Richie Pangrazzio vs. Shining Force (Dark EAGLE & The Great Hisato) HANDICAP MATCH Whistler w/ Louis Williams vs. Killer Kovach & Troy Tornado Black Serpent Cult (Cobra & Viper) vs. Demons of Rage (Demon Anger & Demon Spite) Christian Faith, Dark Angel, Sam Strong & The Vessey Brothers (Bryan & Larry Vessey) vs. Masked Patriot, Sid Streets, Teddy Flame & The Untouchables Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Regis Posted November 21, 2015 Share Posted November 21, 2015 Prediction Key: Coast 2 Coast (Sammy Bach & Jackie P) vs. Heavy Duty (Human Arsenal & Marcus Bowen) w/ Jimmy Power JOBBERS! HGC International Championship Giant Redwood © w/ Yellowstone vs. Bryan Holmes You don't just take a title off a talent like Giant Redwood. Aggressive Tendencies (Genghis Rahn & The Natural) vs. The McWade Brothers (Dallas & Dean McWade) JOBBERS! Azrael & Colossus w/ Karen Killer & Lilith vs. The Mavericks (Clark & John Maverick) Azrael is just off the back of a big feud. Also, two managers to cheat. HGC Hardcore Championship - HARDCORE MATCH Aaron Mustafa © vs. Roger Cage w/ Ernie Turner Not yet, my friend. The Nation Of Filth (Grunt & Stink) w/ Richie Pangrazzio vs. Shining Force (Dark EAGLE & The Great Hisato) Still a project. HANDICAP MATCH Whistler w/ Louis Williams vs. Killer Kovach & Troy Tornado Seriously, who loses Handicap matches? Black Serpent Cult (Cobra & Viper) vs. Demons of Rage (Demon Anger & Demon Spite) Really could be either at this stage. Christian Faith, Dark Angel, Sam Strong & The Vessey Brothers (Bryan & Larry Vessey) vs. Masked Patriot, Sid Streets, Teddy Flame & The Untouchables SCHMOZZ! Start as you mean to go on, after all. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Uncrewed Posted November 21, 2015 Share Posted November 21, 2015 Coast 2 Coast (Sammy Bach & Jackie P) vs. Heavy Duty (Human Arsenal & Marcus Bowen) w/ Jimmy Power HGC International Championship Giant Redwood © w/ Yellowstone vs. Bryan Holmes Aggressive Tendencies (Genghis Rahn & The Natural) vs. The McWade Brothers (Dallas & Dean McWade) Azrael & Colossus w/ Karen Killer & Lilith vs. The Mavericks (Clark & John Maverick) HGC Hardcore Championship - HARDCORE MATCH Aaron Mustafa © vs. Roger Cage w/ Ernie Turner The Nation Of Filth (Grunt & Stink) w/ Richie Pangrazzio vs. Shining Force (Dark EAGLE & The Great Hisato) HANDICAP MATCH Whistler w/ Louis Williams vs. Killer Kovach & Troy Tornado Black Serpent Cult (Cobra & Viper) vs. Demons of Rage (Demon Anger & Demon Spite) Christian Faith, Dark Angel, Sam Strong & The Vessey Brothers (Bryan & Larry Vessey) vs. Masked Patriot, Sid Streets, Teddy Flame & The Untouchables Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Zergon Posted November 22, 2015 Share Posted November 22, 2015 Coast 2 Coast (Sammy Bach & Jackie P) vs. Heavy Duty (Human Arsenal & Marcus Bowen) w/ Jimmy Power Heavy Duty is higher on the pecking order. HGC International Championship Giant Redwood © w/ Yellowstone vs. Bryan Holmes As wrong as this feels, I doubt Redwood would be dropping the belt just yet. Aggressive Tendencies (Genghis Rahn & The Natural) vs. The McWade Brothers (Dallas & Dean McWade) Debut win for McWades. Azrael & Colossus w/ Karen Killer & Lilith vs. The Mavericks (Clark & John Maverick) Squash. HGC Hardcore Championship - HARDCORE MATCH Aaron Mustafa © vs. Roger Cage w/ Ernie Turner Usually, I would go with Cage but it´s likely bit too early for him to hold any title belts just yet. The Nation Of Filth (Grunt & Stink) w/ Richie Pangrazzio vs. Shining Force (Dark EAGLE & The Great Hisato) This would be a close call to me, except for the fact that Shining Force´s win-loss record doesn´t wake any confidence in me. HANDICAP MATCH Whistler w/ Louis Williams vs. Killer Kovach & Troy Tornado Whistler is just too big name to lose here, as odd as it feels to say that when Troy Tornado is on the other side.... Black Serpent Cult (Cobra & Viper) vs. Demons of Rage (Demon Anger & Demon Spite) Demons have more left in the tank at this point. Christian Faith, Dark Angel, Sam Strong & The Vessey Brothers (Bryan & Larry Vessey) vs. Masked Patriot, Sid Streets, Teddy Flame & The Untouchables I think this one is going to be pure chaos and end in double DQ... assuming that Strong doesn´t want to book himself over of course. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Midnightnick Posted November 22, 2015 Share Posted November 22, 2015 Prediction Key: Coast 2 Coast (Sammy Bach & Jackie P) vs. Heavy Duty (Human Arsenal & Marcus Bowen) w/ Jimmy Power HGC International Championship Giant Redwood © w/ Yellowstone vs. Bryan Holmes Aggressive Tendencies (Genghis Rahn & The Natural) vs. The McWade Brothers (Dallas & Dean McWade) Azrael & Colossus w/ Karen Killer & Lilith vs. The Mavericks (Clark & John Maverick) HGC Hardcore Championship - HARDCORE MATCH Aaron Mustafa © vs. Roger Cage w/ Ernie Turner The Nation Of Filth (Grunt & Stink) w/ Richie Pangrazzio vs. Shining Force (Dark EAGLE & The Great Hisato) HANDICAP MATCH Whistler w/ Louis Williams vs. Killer Kovach & Troy Tornado Black Serpent Cult (Cobra & Viper) vs. Demons of Rage (Demon Anger & Demon Spite) Christian Faith, Dark Angel, Sam Strong & The Vessey Brothers (Bryan & Larry Vessey) vs. Masked Patriot, Sid Streets, Teddy Flame & The Untouchables Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DAVEFAN95 Posted November 23, 2015 Share Posted November 23, 2015 Prediction Key: Coast 2 Coast (Sammy Bach & Jackie P) vs. Heavy Duty (Human Arsenal & Marcus Bowen) w/ Jimmy Power I think Heavy Duty have the Upper hand HGC International Championship Giant Redwood © w/ Yellowstone vs. Bryan Holmes Redwood ain't losing the title yet, but Holmes should be able to put on a watchable match with him Aggressive Tendencies (Genghis Rahn & The Natural) vs. The McWade Brothers (Dallas & Dean McWade) McWades are a lot more experienced as a tag team so, I just feel like that'll get them over the line Azrael & Colossus w/ Karen Killer & Lilith vs. The Mavericks (Clark & John Maverick) Azrael is the difference maker here HGC Hardcore Championship - HARDCORE MATCH Aaron Mustafa © vs. Roger Cage w/ Ernie Turner Mustafa is more suited as the champ of the division The Nation Of Filth (Grunt & Stink) w/ Richie Pangrazzio vs. Shining Force (Dark EAGLE & The Great Hisato) The Nation looks more likely to get the win here HANDICAP MATCH Whistler w/ Louis Williams vs. Killer Kovach & Troy Tornado Tornado and Kovach aren't over enough to give Whistler many problems Black Serpent Cult (Cobra & Viper) vs. Demons of Rage (Demon Anger & Demon Spite) The demons are younger and the cult will probably retire sooner rather than later Christian Faith, Dark Angel, Sam Strong & The Vessey Brothers (Bryan & Larry Vessey) vs. Masked Patriot, Sid Streets, Teddy Flame & The Untouchables Looking at these teams, I put Faith over Patriot, Strong over Streets and Angel over Flame, the tag teams are about on level plain, so I think the face side is overall the strongest Also great to see this returning. All we need now is for you to keep the diary going for another 5 years in game. But seriously, Congratulations on the quality and longevity of the diary. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lukess11 Posted November 23, 2015 Share Posted November 23, 2015 Coast 2 Coast (Sammy Bach & Jackie P) vs. Heavy Duty (Human Arsenal & Marcus Bowen) w/ Jimmy Power HGC International Championship Giant Redwood © w/ Yellowstone vs. Bryan Holmes Aggressive Tendencies (Genghis Rahn & The Natural) vs. The McWade Brothers (Dallas & Dean McWade) Azrael & Colossus w/ Karen Killer & Lilith vs. The Mavericks (Clark & John Maverick) HGC Hardcore Championship - HARDCORE MATCH Aaron Mustafa © vs. Roger Cage w/ Ernie Turner The Nation Of Filth (Grunt & Stink) w/ Richie Pangrazzio vs. Shining Force (Dark EAGLE & The Great Hisato) HANDICAP MATCH Whistler w/ Louis Williams vs. Killer Kovach & Troy Tornado Black Serpent Cult (Cobra & Viper) vs. Demons of Rage (Demon Anger & Demon Spite) Christian Faith, Dark Angel, Sam Strong & The Vessey Brothers (Bryan & Larry Vessey) vs. Masked Patriot, Sid Streets, Teddy Flame & The Untouchables Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ufnal Posted December 17, 2015 Share Posted December 17, 2015 Please, let this thread not be dead! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phantom Stranger Posted December 17, 2015 Author Share Posted December 17, 2015 I went and got a new job. It'll be a while before I'm fully up to speed again. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ufnal Posted December 17, 2015 Share Posted December 17, 2015 I went and got a new job. It'll be a while before I'm fully up to speed again. ...which is doubly good news, as a) you've got a new job (congratulations!) and b) as far as I understand this diary is not yet dead! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phantom Stranger Posted December 17, 2015 Author Share Posted December 17, 2015 ...which is doubly good news, as a) you've got a new job (congratulations!) and b) as far as I understand this diary is not yet dead! Hell no. THe predictable show is simmed and needs writing up. However, between going for the job, getting it, and the results of being in Lancashire during Desmond, my free time has been shot. I'm getting the rhythm worked out again. Bear with. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Matsudiro Posted December 17, 2015 Share Posted December 17, 2015 Hell no. THe predictable show is simmed and needs writing up. However, between going for the job, getting it, and the results of being in Lancashire during Desmond, my free time has been shot. I'm getting the rhythm worked out again. Bear with. My thoughts go out to you man, I was also in Lancashire at the time. Love your stuff, keep it up Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ufnal Posted February 10, 2016 Share Posted February 10, 2016 Just reread the thread (in-ring only in parts, but all of the delicious promos and shoots) and it's awesome on second reading, too! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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