CVerse 32 - The Tournament

Jaded · November 30, 2013

I was talking about this in the chat room the other day, and there seemed to be at least a little interest, so let's give it a go to see how awesome the match engine is doing AI vs AI fights.

The top 30 US/Canada guys, plus Champagne Lover representing Mexico, plus Magnum Kobe (at Midcard Hero's request) in a randomly drawn 32 man tournament. Winners of matches 1 and 2 face off in the next round, and so on.

If people want to predict - which would be awesome - 1 point for each correct match results, 2 point bonuses for each if you can pick the quickest match and the best match (by star rating with longest match as tie breaker) in each round. Also, 2 points for each semi-finalist you pick (at the start of the tournament), 3 points for each finalist, and an extra 3 if you pick the winner correctly. Which, if my maths is correct, gets you a score out of 100 if you want to predict in every round.

The draw is below - the plan is to do 'scouting reports' for 4 matches a day for the next 4 days, then post the first round results on Thursday and Friday. There'll be relatively brief match reports for the first and second rounds, followed by longer, more detailed ones, when we get to the quarter-finals.

Oh, gimmick matches may be used from the second round onwards - any thoughts on that, anyone? Feedback welcome - on that and on the tournament idea generally.

In match 1, one of the best all-around wrestlers in the world, a former SWF champion, takes on one of the most experienced men still in that federation.

SEAN McFLY vs CHRISTIAN FAITH

Match 2 sees a former tag-team champion who's found solo success against a monster heel who's one of the most powerful wrestlers around.

BRYAN VESSEY vs REMO RICHARDSON

In match 3, a submission specialist who's become one of the top wrestlers in Canada goes up against an arrogant Japanese heel who's representing his country after winning a fans' vote.

JOHNNY BLOODSTONE vs MAGNUM KOBE

Match 4 sees a man whose rise through NYCW, DAVE and finally TCW elevate him to become a huge name - and nearly as huge a jerk. His opponent is another American who made his name in the 2000s, although he had to move to Canada to do so.

JOEY MINNESOTA vs THE NATURAL

In match 5, there's a complete clash of styles as one of the greatest technical wrestlers ever to grace North America takes on an American psychopath.

DAN STONE JR vs EDDIE PEAK

Match 6, it's Canada against Mexico, as perhaps the best of all the Canadian exports goes up against a man who's world famous as both a wrestler and an actor.

ANGRY GILMORE vs CHAMPAGNE LOVER

Match 7, a man who really defines the wrestling universe today goes up against someone who caused one of the biggest ever shocks when he left a major fed to go to their biggest rivals.

TOMMY CORNELL vs STEVE DECOLT

Match 8, two of the men poised to be true mega-stars in America's best two companies collide. Could either win this entire tournament and finally rise to the very top?

WOLF HAWKINS vs BRANDON JAMES

In match 9, a man who used to uphold the law only to brutally turn his back on it goes up against someone who's only ever been ultra-popular - both in TCW and SWF.

RICK LAW vs JACK BRUCE

Match 10, Emma Chase's other guy in the tournament goes up against the second Stone brother to take part.

ROGUE vs DUANE STONE

Match 11, a TCW legend against an SWF monster...

RICKY DALE JOHNSON vs VENGEANCE

Match 12, the SWF's other monster heel goes up against a TCW star who will need all his speed to counter the big man's size.

MARAT KHOKLOV vs TROY TORNADO

Match 13, USPW's only representative in the tournament goes up against a TCW star in a battle that the ladies will no doubt love to watch.

NICKY CHAMPION vs ROCKY GOLDEN

Match 14, one of Canada's most-hated goes up against one of the least popular guys in the USA.

RK HAYES vs RICH MONEY

Match 15, a top babyface from the SWF faces off with one of his company's biggest heels.

VALIANT vs ERIC EISEN

Match 16, and in the final match, one half of a top Canadian tag team is taking on a top brawler from America.

OWEN LOVE vs STEVE FREHLEY

Predictions Key

Round 1:

McFly vs Faith

Vessey vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Kobe

Minnesota vs Natural

Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak

Gilmore vs Lover

Cornell vs Steve DeColt

Hawkins vs James

Law vs Bruce

Rogue vs Duane Stone

RDJ vs Vengeance

Khoklov vs Tornado

Champion vs Golden

Hayes vs Money

Valiant vs Eisen

Love vs Frehley

Quickest match:

Best match:

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1:

Semi-finalist bracket 2:

Semi-finalist bracket 3:

Semi-finalist bracket 4:

Finalist top half:

Finalist bottom half:

Winner:

Big Roguey · November 30, 2013

Winner: Mangum F'n Kobe

That is all.

Dawn · November 30, 2013

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="MichiganHero" data-cite="MichiganHero" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="37106" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Winner: Mangum F'n Kobe That is all.</div></blockquote> I'm rooting for JACK F'N BRUCE, BABY!

ShadowedFlames · November 30, 2013

Predictions Key

Round 1:

Faith

Vessey

Bloodstone

Natural

Dan Stone Jr

Lover

Cornell

Hawkins

Bruce

Rogue

RDJ

Tornado

Golden

Hayes

Eisen

Love

Quickest match: Cornell

Best match: RDJ

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1: Vessey

Semi-finalist bracket 2: Cornell

Semi-finalist bracket 3: RDJ

Semi-finalist bracket 4: Eisen

Finalist top half: Cornell

Finalist bottom half: RDJ

Winner: Cornell, 6-5 in an Iron Man match

thebest2427 · November 30, 2013

I'm w/ MH. The winner is clearly Magnum Kobe Bryant. <img alt="

" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Teh_Showtime · November 30, 2013

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="MichiganHero" data-cite="MichiganHero" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="37106" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Winner: Mangum F'n Kobe That is all.</div></blockquote> Easily, easily one of my favorites for the tourney. 3rd favorite CV worker after Huggins but I'm on the Hawkins train for this one <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> McFly vs Faith 1000 Spirit still isn't enough to overcome the pure ability of McFly who also boasts a good spirit score. I'm sure they faced for the SWF title in the 90s and so this match should be a great one. McFly has a ridiculous all around game, so he'll be able to stay ahead of Faith long enough to put him down. Vessey vs Remo Don't think Vessey will be able to throw around Remo with his suplexes, Remo wins an absolute brawl Bloodstone vs Kobe Mild upset but Kobe has speed and is a great striker too, Bloodstone is no slouch though Minnesota vs Natural Didn't notice how tough Joey was until I had to face him as Cornell. He has really blossomed into an awesome main eventer from DaVE midcarder Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak Not enough impact moves in Stone's arsenal to hold down the bigger man. I added a backdrop driver and tiger danger driver, but the AI won't and Peak wins in an unexpected pretty easily fashion Gilmore vs Lover Match has classic written all over it, but CL is THE man in his country whereas Angry has yet to truly crack the main event. Lover handles him in a great match Cornell vs Steve DeColt I think Cornell has the edge in every noticeable area but I'm not too sure. I'm pretty much a TCW homer so if anything that gives Cornell the edge Hawkins vs James Hawkins has a great moveset for dealing with big men based on my runs and multiple matches with RDJ and Golden. Emma Chase going to be at ringside or no? Either way I think Wolf out-quicks him for most of the match and avoids a lot of the power moves Law vs Bruce Bruce gets a pretty easy W (relative to the other matches). Law just isn't at the level Bruce has been at for nearly a decade now Rogue vs Duane Stone I think Duane has a much better match than DSJ in the first round. Toss up really, but Duane is the smarter of the two RDJ vs Vengeance This is probably a match made in heaven. Two former partners who both became superstars in their respective companies, both with differing dispositions. RDJ is probably the toughest SOB in the tourney but Vengeance has to make a claim for that spot. I predict RDJ wins the battle of the Texans Khoklov vs Tornado Honestly the best thing for Tornado to do is just lie down and avoid damage to his surgically repaired neck. Marat destroys him Champion vs Golden Another great match that is essentially a mirror match. Nicky is the ruler of USPW and Sam Strong's golden boy, but Golden competes against better competition and I think that he is slightly better because of it. This is a USPW dream match, but I think USPW's number one will lose Hayes vs Money Money is one of the all around great talents and he has the edge pretty much everywhere. I think he wins Valiant vs Eisen I think Eisen somehow cheats his way to an advantage and uses it to win Love vs Frehley Poor Owen. He's smaller and Frehley is already one of the most explosive wrestlers around. This could get really ugly if Love fails to take down Frehley and keep him down, which is what I think happens Quickest match: Marat over Tornado Best match: McFly vs Faith Tournament Semi-finalist bracket 1: McFly Semi-finalist bracket 2: Cornell Semi-finalist bracket 3: Khoklov Semi-finalist bracket 4: Money Finalist top half: Cornell Finalist bottom half: Khoklov Winner: Cornell

Psycho Sam · November 30, 2013

Round 1:

McFly vs Faith

Vessey vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Kobe

Minnesota vs Natural

Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak

Gilmore vs Lover

Cornell vs Steve DeColt

Hawkins vs James

Law vs Bruce

Rogue vs Duane Stone

RDJ vs Vengeance

Khoklov vs Tornado

Champion vs Golden

Hayes vs Money

Valiant vs Eisen

Love vs Frehley

Quickest match: Frehley v. Love

Best match: RDJ v. Vengeance

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1: Faith

Semi-finalist bracket 2: Cornell

Semi-finalist bracket 3: RDJ

Semi-finalist bracket 4: Champion

Finalist top half: Cornell

Finalist bottom half: RDJ

Winner: RDJ

Peppermint Rage · November 30, 2013

McFly vs Faith

Vessey vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Kobe

Minnesota vs Natural

Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak

Gilmore vs Lover

Cornell vs Steve DeColt

Hawkins vs James

Law vs Bruce

Rogue vs Duane Stone

RDJ vs Vengeance

Khoklov vs Tornado

Champion vs Golden

Hayes vs Money

Valiant vs Eisen

Love vs Frehley

Quickest match: Marat v Tornado

Best match: champion v golden

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1: Minnesota

Semi-finalist bracket 2:Lover

Semi-finalist bracket 3:khoklov

Semi-finalist bracket 4:money

Finalist top half: lover

Finalist bottom half: khoklov

Winner khoklov

Russelrules44 · November 30, 2013

In match 1, one of the best all-around wrestlers in the world, a former SWF champion, takes on one of the most experienced men still in that federation.

SEAN McFLY vs CHRISTIAN FAITH

Match 2 sees a former tag-team champion who's found solo success against a monster heel who's one of the most powerful wrestlers around.

BRYAN VESSEY vs REMO RICHARDSON

In match 3, a submission specialist who's become one of the top wrestlers in Canada goes up against an arrogant Japanese heel who's representing his country after winning a fans' vote.

JOHNNY BLOODSTONE vs MAGNUM KOBE

Match 4 sees a man whose rise through NYCW, DAVE and finally TCW elevate him to become a huge name - and nearly as huge a jerk. His opponent is another American who made his name in the 2000s, although he had to move to Canada to do so.

JOEY MINNESOTA vs THE NATURAL

In match 5, there's a complete clash of styles as one of the greatest technical wrestlers ever to grace North America takes on an American psychopath.

DAN STONE JR vs EDDIE PEAK

Match 6, it's Canada against Mexico, as perhaps the best of all the Canadian exports goes up against a man who's world famous as both a wrestler and an actor.

ANGRY GILMORE vs CHAMPAGNE LOVER

Match 7, a man who really defines the wrestling universe today goes up against someone who caused one of the biggest ever shocks when he left a major fed to go to their biggest rivals.

TOMMY CORNELL vs STEVE DECOLT

Match 8, two of the men poised to be true mega-stars in America's best two companies collide. Could either win this entire tournament and finally rise to the very top?

WOLF HAWKINS vs BRANDON JAMES

In match 9, a man who used to uphold the law only to brutally turn his back on it goes up against someone who's only ever been ultra-popular - both in TCW and SWF.

RICK LAW vs JACK BRUCE

Match 10, Emma Chase's other guy in the tournament goes up against the second Stone brother to take part.

ROGUE vs DUANE STONE

Match 11, a TCW legend against an SWF monster...

RICKY DALE JOHNSON vs VENGEANCE

Match 12, the SWF's other monster heel goes up against a TCW star who will need all his speed to counter the big man's size.

MARAT KHOKLOV vs TROY TORNADO

Match 13, USPW's only representative in the tournament goes up against a TCW star in a battle that the ladies will no doubt love to watch.

NICKY CHAMPION vs ROCKY GOLDEN

Match 14, one of Canada's most-hated goes up against one of the least popular guys in the USA.

RK HAYES vs RICH MONEY

Match 15, a top babyface from the SWF faces off with one of his company's biggest heels.

VALIANT vs ERIC EISEN

Match 16, and in the final match, one half of a top Canadian tag team is taking on a top brawler from America.

OWEN LOVE vs STEVE FREHLEY

Predictions Key

Round 1:

McFly vs Faith

Vessey vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Kobe

Minnesota vs Natural

Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak

Gilmore vs Lover

Cornell vs Steve DeColt

Hawkins vs James

Law vs Bruce

Rogue vs Duane Stone

RDJ vs Vengeance

Khoklov vs Tornado

Champion vs Golden

Hayes vs Money

Valiant vs Eisen

Love vs Frehley

Quickest match: Love vs Frehley

Best match: Sean McFly vs Faith

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1: Faith

Semi-finalist bracket 2: Remo

Semi-finalist bracket 3: Cornell

Semi-finalist bracket 4: Champion

Finalist top half: Cornell

Finalist bottom half: Faith

Winner: Christian Faith

TheAwesomeBatman101 · December 1, 2013

Round 1:

McFly vs Faith

McFly is the most all round guy and spirit cant beat dat.

Vessey vs Remo

Remo wins cause Vessey cant do most of his moves on big dudes.

Bloodstone vs Kobe

Upset

Minnesota vs Natural

Easiest match in the tournament

Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak

Peak is a beast

Gilmore vs Lover

Tough Match but Gilmore will win

Cornell vs Steve DeColt

Cornell is the best wrestler ever.

Hawkins vs James

For a Cornell and Hawkins match

Law vs Bruce

Jack Bruce will own.

Rogue vs Duane Stone

Rogue is vicious never count him out.

RDJ vs Vengeance

Maybe the best match in the first round

Khoklov vs Tornado

Khoklov will kill Tornado

NO JOKE!

Champion vs Golden

Champion has better hair.

Hayes vs Money

Hayes suck.

Valiant vs Eisen

EISEN SHOULD DIE!

Love vs Frehley

Frehley wins.

Quickest match: Khoklov vs. Tornado

Best match: RDJ vs. Vengeance

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1: Sean McFly

Semi-finalist bracket 2: Tommy Cornell

Semi-finalist bracket 3: Jack Bruce

Semi-finalist bracket 4: Nicky Champion

Finalist top half: Tommy Cornell

Finalist bottom half: Jack Bruce

Winner: Tommy Cornell

Jaded · December 2, 2013

Scouting Reports:

SEAN McFLY vs CHRISTIAN FAITH

All-round expert Sean McFly takes on perhaps the biggest legend of them all, Christian Faith. 10 years ago, Faith would surely have been the favourite here but McFly is in, or at least just past, the prime of his career and Faith is well past his. That said, McFly will perhaps be in a strange position as it's maybe the first time in his career when he's likely to be booed by most of the crowd - Faith is just THAT popular. Faith has a slight strength advantage while McFly has the huge upper hand in speed, grappling and ground game. McFly is known for the way he studies his opponents before a match and it's not like there's any lack of footage of The Iron Man, so you have to believe the younger guy will be prepared for anything. Will Faith's strength be enough to get past Sean's extensive knowledge of counter-wrestling, or will McFly's all0-round game be too good for the veteran? This is surely a front-runner for Match of the Round.

BRYAN VESSEY vs REMO RICHARDSON

At the age of 43, Bryan Vessey will probably never be a headline solo star in either of the big companies in America, but has had singles success in Japan's PGHW and a long tag run with older brother Larry in TCW prior to that. Despite being a middleweight, he's a strong competitor who could overpower most men of his size, and some bigger ones, in the ring. Just probably not Remo. The brutal SWF powerhouse, best known for a long rivalry with Steve Frehley, can't match Vessey on the ground or when it comes to technical abilities, but is a giant of a man who's one of the strongest in North America. Remo is so hard-hitting that even a great all-rounder like Vessey may just not have enough in the tank to win this one.

JOHNNY BLOODSTONE vs MAGNUM KOBE

NOTPBW headliner, and regular champion, Johnny Bloodstone is one of the most skilled technicians in the sport today, with an extensive knowledge of holds and counter-holds. His opponent Magnum Kobe - the surprise winner of a fan vote which chose Japan's representative in the tournament - is no slouch himself, though. With many people raising eyebrows at a WLW star, rather than a BHOTWG or PGHW wrestler, getting the nod from the online ballot (and some cries of 'voting fraud') Kobe will feel he has a lot to prove. and an upset may not be as unlikely as fans more familiar with the NOTBPW star think. While Bloodstone does have the nod on technical ability, Kobe is a much faster guy who can land some quick and damaging strikes, and definitely shouldn't be discounted. The other potential fly in the ointment here is the attitude of both of these guys to the rules - which they stick to loosely, if at all. A pair of masters at finding the referee's blind spot to gain an unfair advantage, will it be whoever cheats best has the last laugh?

JOEY MINNESOTA vs THE NATURAL

Two extremely evenly-matched all-rounders collide here in a bout in which there's no clear superior guy in any category. If pushed, you'd have to say that Minnesota may have a slight edge in striking and speed, which is offset by The Natural's equally slender advantages in athleticism and strength. The Natural might perhaps be a slight underdog as he's perhaps not used to fighting the same quality of opponents in NOTBPW as Joey is in TCW - after the Stones and Bloodstone, there's more of a drop in quality than there is after Cornell and the rest of the main event scene in Total - but he does have the advantage of an incredible ability to bamboozle the referee when he needs to pull something out of the bag.

3rdStringPG · December 2, 2013

SEAN McFLY vs CHRISTIAN FAITH

BRYAN VESSEY vs REMO RICHARDSON

JOHNNY BLOODSTONE vs MAGNUM KOBE

JOEY MINNESOTA vs THE NATURAL

DAN STONE JR vs EDDIE PEAK

ANGRY GILMORE vs CHAMPAGNE LOVER

TOMMY CORNELL vs STEVE DECOLT

WOLF HAWKINS vs BRANDON JAMES

RICK LAW vs JACK BRUCE

ROGUE vs DUANE STONE

RICKY DALE JOHNSON vs VENGEANCE

MARAT KHOKLOV vs TROY TORNADO

NICKY CHAMPION vs ROCKY GOLDEN

RK HAYES vs RICH MONEY

VALIANT vs ERIC EISEN

OWEN LOVE vs STEVE FREHLEY

Quickest match: Minnesota vs Natural

Best match: Gilmore vs Lover

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1: Sean McFly

Semi-finalist bracket 2: Tommy Cornell

Semi-finalist bracket 3: Jack Bruce

Semi-finalist bracket 4: Rich Money

Finalist top half: Tommy Cornell

Finalist bottom half: Jack Bruce

Winner: Tommy Cornell

Jaded · December 3, 2013

Scouting Reports:

DAN STONE JR vs EDDIE PEAK

Dan Stone Jr, the Canadian legend who somehow just won't retire, seems to have the advantage over Eddie Peak in nearly every aspect here. He's a much better grappler, light years ahead on the ground, far faster, more athletic, and probably has more stamina. Peak's strong points compared to DSJ are that he'd stronger - oh, and he's an absolute psychopath. The smart money is almost certainly on Stone, but you'd have to think very carefully before betting against a guy they call the Hardcore Assassin.Expect tables to get broken here.

ANGRY GILMORE vs CHAMPAGNE LOVER

SWF mainstay Gilmore - a cornerstone of his promotion for over a decade now - can never be discounted, but with the entire of Mexico behind Champagne Lover, he may just have too much to fight against here. Angry is great on the ground and good in the air, CL is perhaps even better in the air and nearly as good on the mat. With Jennifer Heat in his corner cheering him on, and the fighting spirit which has made him his country's most popular wrestler, Antonio Maxi Marquez will be a hard man to defeat here.

TOMMY CORNELL vs STEVE DECOLT

Five years ago this would have been a battle of two promotional aces, as Cornell was the most well-known guy in the promotion he owned, TCW, and Steve DeColt was, along with brother Alex, the most popular man in his father's federation CGC. Since leaving CGC after Alex took over from their dad, Steve has become a huge heel in rival promotion NOTBPW, while Cornell is still one of the guys who TCW fans love to hate. DeColt is stronger but Cornell has a significant advantage in technical ability, while both of these men pride themselves on their ability to scout an opponent ahead of their match and use that knowledge to prepare for anything.

WOLF HAWKINS vs BRANDON JAMES

TCW mainstay Wolf Hawkins is a cardio freak who just never seems to stay down. He's also quick, a great grappler, and excellent on the ground. However he'll face a tough challenge in the shape of the much stronger Brandon James. Big Money is a powerhouse who tosses smaller men around like rag dolls, and considerably outweighs Wolf. James is a noted quick starter who will be looking to end this one before the difference in stamina becomes apparent - and he may have an ace up his sleeve in the form of manager Emma Chase, never shy to involve herself in her man's affairs.

Jaded · December 4, 2013

40 hours or so until the first first-round matches get underway, if anyone else wants to predict...

RICK LAW vs JACK BRUCE

Despite his corrupt cop gimmick seeming a little more cartoony than most of TCW's upper card, Law is a good enough wrestler to hold his own with many of them, especially given his strength and his precision strikes. However he's never quite done it against the really big stars, and they don't get much bigger than the SWF's Jack Bruce. A born showman who loves interacting with his legions of fans, Bruce couldn't be described as all-buisness by any stretch of the imagination. However despite his habit of wasting time geeing up the audience, few people have managed to take advantage and score an elusive victory. He's just that good - and seems to have the edge over Law in virtually every area here.

ROGUE vs DUANE STONE

The hard-hitting and athletic Rogue - formerly known as Jack Giedroyc - is a rising star in the SWF, and almost certainly the second-best British wrestler in the world today, behind Tommy Cornell. After many years as a much-loved fan favourite, his heel turn on Valiant came as a huge shock, but he's become a very adept rule-breaker - especially with the lovely, and lethal, Emma Chase in his corner. However he has a huge challenge as he takes on a real fan favourite, Canadian Duane Stone. The former high-flyer still goes up top occasionally but is more of a technician like elder brothers Dan and Jeremy than a cruiserweight these days, having bulked up significantly since leaving BHOTWG to return home to Canada. With a huge advantage on the ground, you'd have to think he should have this one in the bag if he can get Jack off his feet and keep him there without any interference or cheating.

RICKY DALE JOHNSON vs VENGEANCE

RDJ is a charismatic Texan brawler who dominates most of his opponents in TCW thanks to his sheer power, and some great strikes. He's unlikely, though, to have faced many stronger men than him - but he will do here. Vengeance is a giant of a man who's surprisingly agile for a man of his size. Like Johnson, he hits hard, and hits often, and the pair of them are just as at home outside the ring as in it. As they might say in RDJ's home state, this one is gonna be a slobberknocker!

MARAT KHOKLOV vs TROY TORNADO

There are a few people out there suggesting that Tornado's best hope of avoiding serious injury in this tournament is to lay down for Marat in the first minute here. Not only is he up against a man much bigger and stronger than he is, if by some miracle he wins, he'll take on either Vengeance or RDJ, who against could easily overpower him. We're pretty sure an intentional loss will be the last thing on Troy's mind, though. Yes, Marat is kinda terrifying. Yes, he can hit people into the middle of next week, or throw them around like rag dolls. Yes, it's almost impossible to get him to submit, and fairly hard to actually get him to notice a lot of attacks. But if there's anyone crazy enough to think they stand a chance against the Russian giant, the cocky Tornado is it. He's known for sneaking out big wins as an underdog - this would be his biggest ever by some way.

Derek B · December 4, 2013

This should be fun to see. I'm mostly picking who I'd want to see win rather than who is likely to win in-game... though there will be some crossover anyways.

Round 1:

McFly vs Faith

Vessey vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Kobe

Minnesota vs Natural

Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak

Gilmore vs Lover

Cornell vs Steve DeColt

Hawkins vs James

Law vs Bruce

Rogue vs Duane Stone

RDJ vs Vengeance

Khoklov vs Tornado

Champion vs Golden

Hayes vs Money

Valiant vs Eisen

Love vs Frehley

Quickest match: Frehley beating Love

Best match: McFly vs Faith

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1: Christian Faith

Semi-finalist bracket 2: Tommy Cornell

Semi-finalist bracket 3: Marat Khoklov

Semi-finalist bracket 4: Rocky Golden

Finalist top half: Tommy Cornell

Finalist bottom half: Marat Khoklov

Winner: Marat Khoklov

I've playtested as Marat a fair bit and the dude is a beast.... his size can negate almost anything, his power makes him incredible and he doesn't go down easily. He has his weaknesses, but I think he'll be able to go all the way in this tournament.

Jaded · December 5, 2013

Scouting Reports

NICKY CHAMPION vs ROCKY GOLDEN

Two of the most popular men in the world of wrestling collide here. Champion has been attracting interest from both TCW and SWF for several years now but seems to be focusing on raising USPW to their level, with his run as the main babyface there having taken them higher than ever before. Golden, though, is one of the country's biggest stars thanks to a long run at the top of TCW. Neither of these men are darlings of the fans who look for workrate - but the vast majority who just want to see an entertaining fight worship both of them. With great brawling skills, good athleticism, and huge amounts of charisma, their matches are never boring, that's for sure.

RK HAYES vs RICH MONEY

RK Hayes is one of the toughest guys in Canada, going toe-to-toe with the likes of Sean McFly and Dan Stone Jr and shrugging off their punches as if they were nothing. He's known for his strength and great strikes, but may be going up against one of the few elite competitors in North America who's a better hitter than he is. Rich Money may not be quite the powerhouse that Hayes is, but the SWF star's accuracy means that once he starts wailing on someone he can be hard to stop - particularly as he's quite happy to use a variety of illegal moves, and is so crafty that he rarely gets caught doing so. An excellent counter-wrestler with great stamina, he's probably the favourite here despite the size disadvantage.

VALIANT vs ERIC EISEN

The draw for the first round has pitted most wrestlers against unfamiliar foes - but this pairing know each other all too well. While Eisen is more established at the top of the card - helped by his family connections, of course - Valiant is a rising star who has been propelled to the main event by a blood feud with Rogue. The pair are extremely evenly matched, with Eisen having a slight speed advantage but Valiant having the edge when it comes to strength.

OWEN LOVE vs STEVE FREHLEY

Top class technician Owen Love is more of a tag team specialist than a singles star, but he has the ground game, speed and athleticism to take it to anyone. Popular powerhouse Frehley, though, is a top class competitor in his own right whose Frehley's Comet is one of the most feared finishing moves in the sport.

First part of round 1 coming up in a bit under 24 hours. Thanks for all your predictions!

flaviooooo · December 5, 2013

I'll get mine in as well <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/wink.png.686f06e511ee1fbf6bdc7d82f6831e53.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Round 1:

McFly vs Faith

Vessey vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Kobe

Minnesota vs Natural

Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak

Gilmore vs Lover

Cornell vs Steve DeColt

Hawkins vs James

Law vs Bruce

Rogue vs Duane Stone

RDJ vs Vengeance

Khoklov vs Tornado

Champion vs Golden

Hayes vs Money

Valiant vs Eisen

Love vs Frehley

Quickest match: Khoklov vs Tornado

Best match: Gilmore vs Champagne Lover

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1: McFly

Semi-finalist bracket 2: Cornell

Semi-finalist bracket 3: Khoklov

Semi-finalist bracket 4: Money

Finalist top half: Cornell

Finalist bottom half: Khoklov

Winner: Cornell

guyver3 · December 5, 2013

Round 1:

McFly vs Faith

Vessey vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Kobe

Minnesota vs Natural

Dan Stone Jr vs Eddie Peak

Gilmore vs Lover

Cornell vs Steve DeColt

Hawkins vs James

Law vs Bruce

Rogue vs Duane Stone

RDJ vs Vengeance

Khoklov vs Tornado

Champion vs Golden

Hayes vs Money

Valiant vs Eisen

Love vs Frehley

Quickest match:Khoklov/Tornado

Best match:Cornell/DeColt

Tournament

Semi-finalist bracket 1:Minnesota

Semi-finalist bracket 2:Cornell

Semi-finalist bracket 3:Khoklov

Semi-finalist bracket 4:Golden

Finalist top half:Cornell

Finalist bottom half:Golden

Winner:Cornell

Jaded · December 6, 2013

I was going for 8 matches, but hadn't realised how long they'd take to run/write-up, so have stuck with four. I've 'borrowed' the match write-up style (with permission) from Rone's awesome dynasty - thanks Rone!

SEAN McFLY vs CHRISTIAN FAITH

(10:04) The early phases see McFly wear Faith down with rest holds and several snap driving legdrops, but Faith makes a comeback, shrugging off several McFly chops and hurling Sean to the corner, then repeatedly ramming his shoulder into McFly's midsection. (McFly 87% vs Faith 50%)

(15:50) Faith repeatedly tries to unload with his trademark machine gun Faith Hammers, but McFly blocks them several times and makes a comeback of his own, including a great running half senton. When he tries for the move again, though, Faith rolls out of the way at the last second. (McFly 50% vs Faith 37%)

(18:29) Faith hits a Faith Hammer, only for McFly to slip out of the back of a Samoan drop and hit a swinging rope blast then a springboard clothesline and a flying lariat, getting a one count after a spear. (Sean 27% vs Faith 18%)

(19:41) McFly busts Faith open with a huge running knee strike. (Sean 26% vs Faith 12%)

(20:15) McFly hits a running seating dropkick then goes up top, but a flying clothesline attempt is met with a running shoulder block from Faith which turns him inside out! (26% vs 2%)

(21:40) Faith makes a comeback, hitting a short arm clothesline and two Faith Hammers, with a posing elbow drop in between them. (8% vs 2%)

(22:19) After both men exchange blows, a huge spear from Faith puts McFly down, only for him to kick out at the last second. (0% vs 0%)

(23:35) McFly desperately blocks a Test of Faith, then slips out as Faith goes for an inverted atomic drop.

(24:53) With Faith bleeding heavily after a running knee drop aggravates his cut, he moves out of the way of a springboard legdrop then applies a Test of Faith which McFly somehow fights his way out of.

(26:23) McFly reverses an Irish whip and charges in with an elbow, then stomps away at Faith before hitting a snap driving legdrop, but misses a springboard legdrop again!

(26:43) A spear from Faith looks to have the victory, but McFly kicks out on two and three quarters.

(28:38) Another Test of Faith is applied, but with a sizable minority of NOTBPW fans in the crowd screaming for McFly, he somehow finds the strength to fight his way out of it.

(31:27) After a few minutes in which both guys throw everything at each other with little success, Faith hits a flying lariat and applies a third Test of Faith - and this time, there's no escape! McFly gives up and Faith progresses.

Christian Faith beats Sean McFly via submission (Test of Faith) in 31:27

***** A surefire MotY candidate!

BRYAN VESSEY vs REMO RICHARDSON

(7:00) After a fairly even start sees Vessey move to wear down holds once he realises his blows are having no effect on Remo, the big man starts to dominate, picking Vessey up by the arm and then hurling him like a rag doll with a Biel throw. (Bryan 70% vs Remo 85%)

(9:38) Remo continues to dominate, with a couple of power bodyslams and a pair of massive Remo Busters. (35% vs 85%)

(11:56) As Remo goes for the Destroyer, Vessey desperately slips out of it. (25% vs 81%)

(13:51) As Remo lifts Vessey up for a massive powerbomb, Bryan rakes his eyes then hits a single leg trip. He follows up with a snap driving elbow and a running knee drop, then uses the ropes to help choke out the bigger man, and stomps him in the groin. (25% vs 58%)

(15:26) Remo hits a front backbreaker then goes for a big legdrop, but Vessey moves out of the way. As Bryan tries to stomp him in the groin again, Remo breaks it, and hits his Hit and Run suplex followed by a big legdrop. (14% vs 52%)

(17:19) Remo chokes out Vessey and goes for another Hit and Run, only for the TCW star to slip out and hit a knee plant and a standing arm bar. A Vessey Line leaves Remo feeling and Bryan follows up with a low blow, drawing a warning from the referee. Leaping from the top rope, he hits a flying elbow drop and unloads with mounted elbow smashes, only for Remo to rush him as he wastes time taunting the bigger man. (10% vs 30%)

(18:09) Vessey resorts to a face rake again, getting out of a Lumbar Puncture attempt, then hits a second Vessey Line followed by mounted elbow smashes. (7% vs 25%)

(18:41) An implant DDT from Vessey sees him get two and a half with the first pinfall attempt of the match. (7% vs 15%)

(19:29) Vessey tries to lock on an STF but Remo rolls through it, only to get small packaged for a two count as he goes for a choke hold. (3% vs 13%)

(21:22) Vessey puts Remo on the apron with a flurry of strong forearm strikes, then wails away with punches and forearm blows, before knocking him to the floor with an enziguri kick. Bryan climbs up top and leaps off with a flying shoulder tackle, but Remo catches him and slams him into the ground with a huge powerslam! (0% vs 13%)

(22:39) On the outside, Remo hits a huge Remo Buster followed by a legdrop, then blasts away with a flurry of double axe handle smashes. Bringing Vessey back in the ring, he lifts him and drops him with a huge Destroyer - but the ref is out of position, and the slight delay does enough for Vessey to kick out.

(22:53) Another Destroyer hits, but Vessey somehow kicks out again!

(23:47) Remo drops Vessey with a face first powerbomb, but instead of pinning him, picks him up, allowing Bryan to lock on a side headlock and take him down. A knee busts Remo open, and a single leg grapevine is applied.

(25:06) Vessey hits a flurry of forearm strikes and an enziguri kick to take Remo to the outside, then flies off the top rope with a flying clothesline, before rolling back into the ring.

(27:06) Remo just about beats the count back into the ring, then hits a Biel throw and an elbow drop. As he lifts Vessey up for a standing hot shot, Vessey slips out and hits a standing spinebuster, followed by a top rope fist drop.

(28:02) Vessey hits a running forearm blow then locks on an STF, but Remo makes it to the ropes almost immediately. As Bryan climbs the turnbuckles, though, he struggles to get to the top in time and by the time he leaps off, Remo is off the ropes and hits him with a running shoulder block!

(29:21) As Remo brings Vessey up off the floor, Vessey fights back and hits him with repeated knee lifts, then goes up top and get a flying clothesline.

(30:39) Vessey comes off the top again with a flying shoulder tackle, and hits a set of rear crossface blows, but as he goes for seated knuckle punches, Remo breaks the hold Vessey has on him.

(31:43) Remo hits a Remo Buster and a power bodyslam, then some seated knuckle punches which open Vessey's face up.

(32:55) Vessey fights back and uses another forearm strike flurry to put Remo on the apron, with a succession of blows, an enziguri kick and a flying shoulder tackle giving the momentum to him.

(34:22) A Vessey Line, mounted elbow smashes and a spear put Remo down on the outside and Bryan rolls into the ring, where he nearly wins by count-out, only for Remo to make it back into the ring just in time.

(37:03) Remo, who's losing a lot of blood, dives out of the way of a flying clothesline and goes all out to finish, hitting a flying lariat clothesline and a press powerslam for a two count.

(38:02) A third Destroyer is enough for Remo to pick up the victory in an epic match.

Remo beats Bryan Vessey via pinfall (Destroyer) in 38:02.

**** Highly competitive, full of drama, and with lots of memorable moments.

JOHNNY BLOODSTONE vs MAGNUM KOBE

(7:11) Bloodstone takes control from early on, working over Kobe's leg with elbow drops to the knee, knee bars and a Boston crab. As he goes for a lifting spinebuster, though, Kobe shifts his weight and gets a one count. (Johnny 93% vs Kobe 67%)

(9:00) Kobe goes for a body scissors which Bloodstone breaks out of, and the NOTBPW star hits a knee plant and a swinging neckbreaker. (91% vs 57%)

(10:05) Bloodstone gets two with a lifting spinebuster, only for Kobe to then break out of a single arm DDT and applies a side headlock. (91% vs 42%)

(11:39) Kobe starts to take a leaf out of his opponent's book and work over Bloodstone's knee with knee pulls, knee bars and an elbow drop. (86% vs 42%)

(12:30) Kobe goes for a running half senton but Bloodstone small packages him for 2. (82% vs 40%)

(13:14) As Bloodstone goes for a raised bow and arrow lock, Kobe sweeps his leg, then uses the ropes to choke him out. (78% vs 38%)

(14:40) Kobe hits a springboard clothesline and a slingshot senton bomb, then lands a measured knee drop, but misses with a running half senton. (66% vs 36%)

(17:03) Bloodstone gets an inverted figure four and goes for an elevated leg lock. Kobe is able to break out of it but as he goes for a thrust kick, gets leg grapevined by Bloodstone. (55% vs 20%)

(18:06) Bloodstone hits a slingshot suplex then locks in the Bloodstone Mutilation but Kobe fights his way out of it. (55% vs 11%)

(20:00) Bloodstone locks on a crossface chickenwing, and Kobe can't fight it, giving up.

Johnny Bloodstone beats Magnum Kobe via submission (crossface chickenwing) in 20:00.

*** An enjoyable match that needed just a little more drama.

JOEY MINNESOTA vs THE NATURAL

(10:09) Lots of good counter-wrestling early on with no-one able to gain much of an advantage. Minnesota makes the first cover attempt of the match and gets just one from it (after a sunset flip), then hits a Minnesota Salute flying forearm. (Joey 80% vs Natural 67%)

(12:20) The Natural gets a two count after falling on top of a lifting spinebuster pin, but then misses a leaping elbow drop. Minnesota drops a couple of running knees and hits a mafia kick. (74% vs 45%)

(14:17) The Natural hits a forearm blow to counter a flying lariat, then drops Minnesota with a running clothesline and puts on a horizontal bow and arrow lock. (58% vs 38%)

(15:19) The Natural hits a series of elbow drops and a mounted punch flurry, but Minnesota breaks an explosion suplex attempt and pokes The Natural in the eye then hits a sit-out swinging neckbreaker. (44% vs 37%)

(17:19) Minnesota slingshots The Natural into the corner then chops away at him, but the Natural comes out with a head drop suplex. He goes for a T-bone suplex but Minnesota falls on top of him for two. (38% vs 27%)

(19:02) Minnesota hits a running knee drop then hits a Minnesota Salute before unloading with seated knuckle punches, drawing a referee's warning. He goes for a mafia kick but gets backdropped. (21% vs 5%)

(21:36) The Natural goes for a Western brainbuster suplex but Minnesota falls on top of him, and gets two and three-quarters. (7% vs 0%)

(22:22) Minnesota hits a gutwrench powerbomb, lifts The Natural up, and puts him straight back down with an Empire Spiral - enough to get the win.

Joey Minnesota beats The Natural via pinfall (Empire Spiral) in 22:22.

**** A very good and highly competitive bout that went back and forth in highly competitive fashion.

From a quick look at predictions, Derek B and Psycho Sam are on full marks, with several 3 out of 4s - Faith screwing a few people's picks up. I'll do a full list of scores at the end of each round.

If you want to join in the predictions contest, you're welcome to submit picks for the other 12 first round matches, although I'm not accepting picks for winners/finalists/semi-finalists or match of the round/quickest win now that we've started.

Jaded · December 7, 2013

DAN STONE JR vs EDDIE PEAK

(8:29) Dan Stone Jr goes after Peak's leg from the start, hitting him with elbow drops to the knee and wearing him down with holds including knee bars and spinning toe holds before going for the famed Stone Ankle Barrage. (88% vs 65%)

(11:57) Whipping Peak to the corner and unleashing with chops, slaps and forearms, Stone then locks on an STF, only for Peak to fight his way out. (88% vs 45%)

(14:49) Stone locks on a Texas Cloverleaf which looks like it may be enough to get the win, but Peak powers out at the last minute. (87% vs 20%)

(18:35) After squirming out of an STF attempt, Peak makes a brief comeback with a few slaps and punches, but it's cut off by an open handed chop and a single leg trip. (80% vs 1%)

(20:12) Peak gets opened up by a running knee strike, but the sight of the blood seems to enrage him, and he downs Stone with a huge headbutt before wailing away on him with double axe handles. (71% vs 0%)

(21:43) Peak stomps away at Stone and hits a pair of elbow drops, but goes for a leaping elbow drop and misses, allowing DSJ to lock on a single leg grapevine. (62% vs 0%

(25:11) Stone locks on his Stone Ankle Stretch, only for Peak to make it to the ropes, then Peak fights his way out of a Stump Puller but Stone drops him with a DDT. (60% vs 0%)

(25:29) Stone locks on a stump puller, and Peak taps out!

Dan Stone Jr beat Eddie Peak via submission (Stump Puller) in 25:29.

** Perfectly acceptable but dull bout.

ANGRY GILMORE vs CHAMPAGNE LOVER

(9:30) Perhaps surprisingly, Lover totally dominates the opening exchanges of the match, hitting the Canadian with a variety of strikes. (68%

vs 89%)

(11:56) Gilmore fights back after rolling out of the way of an elbow drop, getting a couple of wear-down holds on but then missing a seated back kick. (56% vs 80%)

(14:22) Lover misses a thrust kick but before Angry can capitalise, he in turn misses a knee drop, allowing Lover to regain the advantage with a senton, knee drop and half senton. (38% vs 74%)

(16:13) Lover wears Gilmore down with several chinlocks and headlocks, but goes for a hammerlock backdrop bomb and Angry counters with a kick to the knee. (30% vs 69%)

(17:26) Lover slips out of a swinging neckbreaker attempt and then goes for a top rope cross body, but Gilmore moves, and locks in a raised bow and arrow lock. (24% vs 65%)

(20:13) Gilmore hits his patented Sky High Setup, but with Lover kicking up before Gilmore reaches the top rope, Angry leaps off with a double axe handle rather than the usual elbow drop. (24% vs 46%)

(22:42) Gilmore misses a running seated dropkick and Lover goes for his Champagne Breakfast finisher, but Angry small packages him for two.

(11% vs 35%)

(25:17) Lover breaks a single arm DDT attempt, takes Gilmore down with a springboard rana, and this time locks on the Champagne Breakfast for the submission victory.

Champagne Lover beats Angry Gilmore by submission (Champagne Breakfast) in 25:17

*** A competitive match where you always got the feeling they weren't going at full gear.

TOMMY CORNELL vs STEVE DECOLT

(8:28) Cornell works over DeColt's knee early in the match, but loses the advantage when he misses a running knee drop. (Tommy 88% vs Steve 60%)

(10:40) DeColt comes back with a couple of punches and kicks, then throws Cornell to the corner, where he chokes him out, drawing a warning from the referee. (82% vs 49%)

(13:40) DeColt stomps away at Cornell and hits a senton, but Cornell moves out of the way of a running knee drop to regain control. (67% vs 43%)

(15:18) Cornell gets a Boston Crab locked on but DeColt powers out, then hits a forearm blow and a face rake. (63% vs 37%)

(16:26) DeColt goes for a short arm clothesline but Cornell breaks it, then knocks the Canadian to the outside with a charging forearm. Climbing the turnbuckles, he slips, and this means that by the time he jumps off with a flying clothesline, DeColt has recovered and moves out of the way. (60% vs 27%)

(17:08) With both men on the outside, DeColt hits an elbow drop and a knee drop, but then missing a running senton. (55% vs 18%)

(18:10) Back in the ring, the pair brawl for thirty seconds before Cornell goes for a Guilt Trip slightly too close to the ropes, allowing DeColt to grab them. Tommy tries for a flying lariat but DeColt sidesteps and kicks him in the gut. (50% vs 7%)

(20:05) DeColt goes for a standing spinebuster but Cornell slips out of the back, hitting a flurry of European uppercuts and then a stump piledriver before locking on an STF which DeColt manages to escape. (50% vs 0%)

(21:25) DeColt gets a forearm blow after ducking a clothesline attempt, then hits several knee drops and as Cornell regains his footing, Steve takes him to the outside with a running clothesline. He stops to taunt his opponent, though, and Cornell recovers and hits him with an inverted atomic drop. (36% vs 0%)

(23:55) Cornell hits several forearm strikes before cutting DeColt open with a running knee strike, then gets back into the ring to wait for his opponent. As the Canadian climbs to the apron, Tommy C knocks him back off with an enzuigiri kick! Cornell leaps up top but DeColt is able to join him after a quick recovery, and as the two jostle for position, DeColt is able to hit a top rope overhead fallaway slam. (26% vs 0%)

(25:34) DeColt hits a huge powerbomb then picks Cornell up from behind and nails him with a DeColt Stampede for a near three-count! (7% vs 0%)

(27:45) After each man misses several knee and elbow drops, Cornell takes DeColt town with a single leg trip, single leg grapevine then a standing arm bar. (0% vs 0%)

(28:47) Cornell puts Steve on the apron with some forearms, then hits an enzuigiri to take him down to the ringside area. As Cornell climbs the turnbuckles, DeColt joins him up there, but Tommy grabs him and takes him down with a huge suicide-a-plex for two!

(29:52) DeColt goes for an eye poke to get the advantage back, then hits some mounted elbow smashes, but as he picks up Tommy for a suplex powerslam Cornell falls on top of him for two.

(31:40) Cornell puts DeColt down with a standing spinebuster then hits a spinning back fist followed by a flying lariat and rear crossface blows, which open DeColt's cut up further.

(34:30) DeColt puts Cornell down with a backbreaker, then lines up a measured knee drop and cuts Cornell open. He chokes him out over the ropes before hitting a half senton, a huge spear for a two, and a stunning face crusher for a near-three count.

(36:04) DeColt hits a huge mafia kick, then a suplex powerslam, and the ref seems to make a fast count - although it's still only two and a half.

(37:19) DeColt hits a double underhook powerbomb, then goes for a sidewalk slam only to be kneed in the head by Cornell, who then nails him with a belly to belly.

(39:42) Cornell gets a near submission with a figure four, but when he goes up top for a flying clothesline, DeColt snatches him out of the air with a Samoan drop and follows up with a running half senton!

(41:09) DeColt hits a flurry of strikes to put Cornell on the apron then suplexes him back in, before hitting a stunning face crusher for two and nine tenths!

(42:20) DeColt gets a mafia kick and a powerbomb, then opens up Cornell's cut further with seated knuckle punches. As the referee is checking Tommy is alright, DeColt hits a low blow for another two count!

(42:43) DeColt lifts up Cornell and puts him down with a suplex powerslam - and there it is, the three count!

Steve DeColt beats Tommy Cornell via pinfall (suplex powerslam) after 42:43.

***** A phenomenal bout that featured exciting, dramatic action and a highly competitive struggle for supremacy. Match of the Year candidate!

WOLF HAWKINS vs BRANDON JAMES

(9:56) A very even first ten minutes sees both men do a fair bit of damage to their opponents, and also each draw referee's warnings for choking. (Wolf 66% vs James 71%)

(11:26) Hawkins takes the advantage with a knee plant and thrust kick, followed by a seated back dropkick then a huge half senton, but Brandon rolls through a Boston crab then kicks Wolf in the gut. (62% vs 47%)

(13:21) James presses home his advantage with a mixture of stomps and chokes using the ring ropes, much to the referee's annoyance. (48% vs 43%)

(15:21) As James tries to pick Hawkins up, Wolf begs off and hits out with a desperation low blow, then sends James to the corner with a thrust kick. Ramming his shoulder into James's midsection, Wolf follows up with a slingshot legdrop. (44% vs 25%)

(15:40) Wolf blasts James with a Full Moon rising; nearly enough to get the victory. (44% vs 15%)

(16:33) Hawkins hits a springboard cross body, a moonsault and a lung blower, then goes for another Full Moon Rising - only for Emma Chase to grab his leg as he tries to bounce off the ropes! (44% vs 0%)

(17:12) A stunning sequence here, as Brandon goes for an elbow drop and misses, Wolf goes up top and flies off with a top rope cross body, only for Brandon to catch him with a sit-out spinebuster to swing the momentum in his favour! (39% vs 0%)

(17:37) Brandon goes for a powerbomb, but Wolf slips out of it, slides over James's shoulder, and bounces off the ropes with a Full Moon Rising for the victory!

Wolf Hawkins beats Brandon James via pinfall (Full Moon Rising) after 17:37.

*** An enjoyable match that needed perhaps just a little more drama to kick it up a notch.

That's livened things up in predictions - most people had Stone, Wolf and Lover, but not only was Cornell a unanimous pick to win his first round match, he was a near-unanimous pick to be in the final. Cornell vs DeColt is also the current 'best match', which has messed up a few people who'd picked previous leader Faith vs McFly.

Tomorrow is a busy day for me so I might not be able to get the next 4 matches up - if so, normal service will resume on Sunday.

Peppermint Rage · December 7, 2013

I was curious as to where the scores were after the first half of round 1 so i did the math and figured i might as well post it (sorry if i missed anyone or miscounted)

so without further adieu here's the unofficial scorecard.

ShadowedFlames: 5

Teh_Showtime: 4

Psycho Sam: 6

jameschaos: 6

Russelrules44: 5

TheAwesomeBatman101: 3

3rdStringPG: 6

Derek B: 7

flaviooooo: 5

guyver3: 5

Teh_Showtime · December 7, 2013

Did not expect Eddie Peak to get destroyed so easily. Can't really say Im surprised at Faith/McFly or Cornell/DeColt as they were really even matches but I did pick wrong.

I'm still on the Wolf train even though I picked TC to win it all

Jaded · December 9, 2013

RICK LAW vs JACK BRUCE

(9:48) Bruce absolutely annihilates Law in the early minutes, striking away and nearly hitting the New York Minute twice. (Rick 25% vs Jack 87%)

(11:34) After avoiding the second New York Minute attempt, Law hits a running clothesline, elbow drop and legdrop. (21% vs 81%)

(13:37) Law misses a leaping elbow drop, but then catches Bruce with a spinebuster as Jack flies off with a shoulder tackle. Law drops two elbows of his own, with a rear chinlock in between. (17% vs 69%)

(15:37) Bruce rolls out of the way of a third elbow drop attempt, then hits one of is own, followed by a senton. Again, he goes for a New York Minute but it's blocked, although he hits a pair of stump piledrivers. He aims for a pump splash but Law moves. (0% vs 62%)

(17:41) Law hits an overhead fallaway slam but misses a knee drop; Bruce hits a knee strike, then a running hot shot and a pump splash for a two count. (0% vs 54%)

(20:11) Law dives out of the way as Bruce goes for a flying clothesline, hits an overhead fallways slam and a Squad Car Slam, then a running knee drop and a DDT. (0% vs 31%)

(22:04) Bruce fights back as Law picks him up, and hits a DDT followed by his Welcome to NYC sequence. After a stomp flurry, running senton and pump splash, he gets a 2 count. (0% vs 31$)

(23:20) Law has taken a huge battering here but may have swung the odds back in his favour as he catches Bruce's top rope clothesline attempt and hits a sit-out spinebuster. (0% vs 30%)

(25:22) Law hits a gut buster, then takes Bruce to the outside with a massive running clothesline. (0% vs 21%)

(26:48) Law goes for his Long Arm of the Law lariat but Bruce ducks it, then hits a huge thrust kick and a running knee strike which busts Law open. Then they roll back into the ring. (0% vs 12%)

(29:01) Bruce tries for a top rope cross body, but his bad luck off the top rope continues as Law gets him with a running shoulder block, then hits a flurry of strikes. A running knee strike leaves Law bleeding heavily, then Bruce locks on a camel clutch for a near submission before getting a stump piledriver. (0% vs 5%)

(29:54) Finally, Bruce lands the New York Minute, and with Law leaking blood all over the place, the cover is academic.

Jack Bruce beats Rick Law via Pinfall (New York Minute) in 29:54.

**** An excellent match by anyone's standards; a fine example of how good pro wrestling can be.

ROGUE vs DUANE STONE

(9:29) A really even first ten minutes or so, with Duane just about shade it. (Rogue 80% vs Duane 83%)

(11:51) The momentum starts to turn towards Rogue as Stone gets tripped by Emma Chase, then hits a knee drop and a stomp flurry. (63% vs 77%)

(13:42) Stone breaks a lifting spinebuster attempt, then hits a swinging neckbreaker and goes to work on Rogue's leg with stomps and knee bars. Rogue rolls through a Boston Crab attempt, though, and kicks Duane in the gut. (47% vs 75%)

(15:48) Rogue slows things down, using the ropes to choke out the Canadian star twice then hits a knee drop. (47% vs 60%)

(17:52) Rogue continues to work over Stone, until a Mafia kick attempt is stopped with a boot to the gut. (46% vs 45%)

(20:14) Rogue rolls through a stretch muffler try, then hits a flying lariat, before picking up Duane and clotheslining him to the outside. He follows up with a flurry of European uppercuts and a flying lariat. (32% vs 30%)

(21:08) As the pair fight on the outside, Rogue hits a Crashing On, then rolls into the ring. The Canadian can't beat the count, and Rogue gets the victory.

Rogue beats Duane Stone via count-out (Crashing On) in 21:08.

*** A decent enough match.

RDJ vs VENGEANCE

(9:39) As expected, these two go big right from the start, trading huge punches and slams. (RDJ 68% vs Vengeance 81%)

(11:48) Vengeance starts to dominates, with flurries of stomps and axe handles, but gets warned by the referee for using the ropes to choke out his opponent. (56% vs 77%)

(13:46) Johnson rolls out of the way of a stomp flurry then hits a backbreaker, but misses an elbow drop. However, as Vengeance goes for a throw down spinebuster, RDJ falls down on top of him for a two count. (52% vs 70%)

(15:48) RDJ whips Vengeance into the corner, hits a turnbuckle smash, then a clothesline, only to miss a double axe handle and allow Vengeance to hit a Samoan drop. (41% vs 66%)

(17:51) Vengeance hits a running knee strike which opens Johnson up, and RDJ seems to be enraged by the blood! Johnson hits a backbreaker and a series of elbow drops, but then Vengeance breaks a knee pull. (34% vs 53%)

(20:21) As Vengeance goes for a low blow, Johnson counters it with a standing spinebuster. A second follows, before he picks Vengeance up and drops him with a DDT, then taunts the giant, waiting for him to get up. As Vengeance staggers to his feet, Johnson hits a leaping lariat. (31% vs 28%)

(20:52) Johnson hits a Southern Justice at the second attempt, and comes agonisingly close to a win before Vengeance kicks out at the last second. (31% vs 15%)

(21:08) A second successful Southern Justice hits, and this time that's all she wrote for Vengeance!

RDJ beats Vengeance via pinfall (Southern Justice) in 21:08.

*** An enjoyable match that perhaps needed just a little more drama to kick it up a notch.

MARAT KHOKLOV vs TROY TORNADO

(9:37) To nobody's surprise, Marat takes the advantage here early on, slamming Troy around like a rag doll. (Marat 86% vs Troy 58%)

(11:46) Marat smashes Troy with axe handles, stomps, and slams. It's not particularly entertaining, but it's effective. (86% vs 36%)

(14:04) Tornado can't seem to get anywhere, and Marat hits him with a huge headbutt then a massive powerslam. (81% vs 26%)

(16:35) Tornado scores a side headlock takedown and briefly gets a little offense in, but Marat wipes him out again with a big boot, then a Moscow Lariat, and makes the cover for the three.

Marat Khoklov beats Troy Tornado via pinfall (Moscow Lariat) in 16:35.

** This match had a few good moments, but overall it was painfully average.

Jaded · December 10, 2013

NICKY CHAMPION vs ROCKY GOLDEN

(9:39) The pair come out all guns blazing, brawling hard. There are actually two attempted pinfalls early on as Champion gets a one count from a sunset flip and a two count from a schoolboy roll-up. (Nicky 82% vs Rocky 81%)

(11:01) Champion knocks Golden down with a short arm clothesline, stomps away at him, but loses the advantage when he misses a big legdrop. (76% vs 72%)

(12:53) Golden takes control, hitting a front backbreaker, a stomp flurry, a knee drop and a leaping elbow drop. (67% vs 69%)

(14:40) Champion moves out of the way of another attempted leaping elbow drop and picks Rocky up, nailing him with several moves before hitting a big legdrop and a knee drop. (60% vs 60%)

(16:28) Champion hits a double axe handle smash and an overhead fallaway slam, then misses a backbreaker attempt as Golden's too powerful, only for Golden to mess up a leaqping elbow drop. (47% vs 54%)

(18:51) Champion knocks Golden down and keeps him on the floor with elbow drops and stomps. (44% vs 46%)

(20:37) Golden slips out of a neckbreaker attempt, then hits a running face smash. Picking Champion up, Rocky hurls him into the corner and blasts away at him there, then hits a flying lariat. (37% vs 42%)

(22:45) As Rocky lifts Champion up for the Rack, his knee gives way and Nicky gets a one count. As Champion goes for a flying lariat, though, Rocky boots him in the head then nails a flying lariat of his own. (0% vs 42%)

(23:54) Champion breaks another attempt at the Rack and tries to come off the top with a double axe handle, but Golden catches him with a sleeper hold and hits a released powerbomb then makes the cover for the three count.

Rocky Golden beats Nicky Champion via pinfall (released powerbomb) after 23:54.

** Standard, every day, ten-a-penny match. Acceptable rather than memorable.

RK HAYES vs RICH MONEY

(9:57) The first ten minutes or so see a few good exchanges, with Money cheating to get the upper hand. (Hayes 76% vs Money 80%)

(12:24) Money takes control with several knee drops, then chokes Hayes out using the ropes, before getting a near submission with an STF. (45% vs 80%)

(14:43) Money goes for a tiger bomb, which Hayes counters with a face rake, then RK hits a Samoan drop. As he goes for a leaping elbow drop, though, Money rolls him up for a two count, then hits a huge DDT. (27% vs 68%)

(16:48) Money goes for an STF but Hayes slips out and whips him into the corner, where he smashes his head into the turnbuckle and chokes him out. A huge roundhouse puts Rich down, but a running knee drop gets him small packaged again for another two count. Money then goes for a hammerlock powerbomb and Hayes breaks the attempt, before hitting a running forearm blow. (21% vs 49%)

(19:06) Hayes gets a warning for choking out Money, then gets caught by a low blow as Money begs off then hits him between the legs for two. Hayes slips out of an inverted drop attempt, though, and tosses Money to the corner then hits him with a series of forearms. (4% vs 46%)

(21:02) Hayes hits a front backbreaker but as he tries to stomp on Money Rich slides to the outside, then sneaks back in and nails RK from behind, hitting a Forward Russian legsweep then connecting with the Bank Roll for two and three-quarters. (0% vs 40%)

(23:10) Money gets a two count - and a referee's warning - from a low blow, but can't land a hammerlock powerbomb. Whipping Hayes into the corner, he then hits a tree of woe stomp flurry. (0% vs 33%)

(25:16) Money gets a two count again, this time from a Bank Roll, then hits a stump piledriver. Hayes breaks a stump puller, then knocks Money to the outside with a running clothesline, and lays into him with strikes as he lays on the concrete floor. (0% vs 21%)

(27:03) The pair fight their way back into the ring, where Hayes collides with the ref after an Irish whip attempt is reversed, and leaves the official out cold! Money takes advantage of this to reach into his trunks for brass knuckles and swings for Hayes, who sidesteps and catches him with a Homicide Bomb - but there's no ref to make the count! (0% vs 18%)

(29:07) Money grabs Hayes as he tries to revive the referee, and is able to hit a stump piledriver then a Dollars From Heaven, but with no sign of the referee recovering, can't make the pinfall! (0% vs 10%)

(31:05) Money goes for a second Dollars From Heaven but Hayes moves, and with the referee recovering, Hayes gets two two-counts, firstly with a roll-up and next with a front backbreaker. (0% vs 4%)

(33:04) Hayes gets another two count, this time with a handful of tights as he rolls Money up again. (0% vs 0%)

(35:05) Hayes takes Money to the outside with a running clothesline, then drags him into the ring where he hits a Homicide Bomb for the victory!

RK Hayes beats Rich Money via pinfall (Homicide Bomb) in 35:05.

*** A fine match, the action went back and forth and was very enjoyable to watch.

VALIANT vs ERIC EISEN

(10:03) It's an open start, with Eisen going well at first but Valiant then coming back well, much to the delight of the fans. (Valiant 79% vs Eric 73%)

(12:10) Valiant hits a running knee drop, then a front slam, and a leaping elbow drop, but as he tries to stomp on Eisen Eric slides to the outside to regain his breath. (78% vs 50%)

(14:27) Eisen rolls back in and hits a backbreaker, then elbow and knee drops, followed by a headbutt to the groin. He tries for a rear naked punch flurry but Valiant blocks it to regain control. (56% vs 50%)

(15:29) Valiant throws Eisen into the corner and rams his shoulder into Eric's breadbasket, then goes for an inverted atomic drop which is blocked. (56% vs 45%)

(17:29) Eisen briefly regains control but Valiant powers his way out of an attempted stomp to the groin then clothelines him, hits a back suplex and a big legdrop. Twice, he goes for a V-Split, but Eisen blocks it. (52% vs 23%)

(20:22) Eisen hits a flying lariat, then a DDT, and a mounted punch flurry. He goes for the Supremacy but Valiant rushes him. (24$ vs 20%)

(22:30) Valiant hits an overhead fallaway slam, throws Eisen to the corner, and then goes for a front backbreaker which gets broken. (10% vs 15%)

(23:26) Eisen hits a running clothesline to the outside then DDTs Valiant onto the concrete floor, splitting his head open. The pair go back into the ring, where Valiant tries for a discus clothesline but Eisen drops him with a left hook. (6% vs 7%)

(24:17) Eisen hits the Supremacy for a near pinfall, but misses his second attempt. (0% vs 0%)

(26:27) Valiant slams Eisen to the ground then uses elbows and knees to keep him there, but as he picks up his opponent, Eric rolls him up for two.

(28:41) Eisen goes for a Supremacy twice, getting the two-count first but not landing it the second time.

(29:43) Valiant hits a DDT, then a front slam, and gets a near pinfall from a V-Split.

(30:16) Valiant goes for a Patriot Missile but Eisen stops it with a running forearm blow, then hits a Supremacy for the victory!

Eric Eisen beats Valiant via pinfall (Supremacy) in 30:16.

***** A phenomenal, exciting, highly competitive Match of the Year candidate.

OWEN LOVE vs STEVE FREHLEY

(9:50) Frehley explodes out of the blocks, blasting away at Love, but the Can-Am Blonde manages to slow things down by grounding The Dark Destroyer. (Owen 62% vs Steve 80%)

(10:40) Love hits an enziguri to leave Frehley reeling, then takes him down with a chop block. However he delays too long before following up, and Frehley breaks a stomp to the groin. (61% vs 75%)

(13:18) Frehley hurls Love around like a rag doll, hitting his patented Frehley Suplex throw but then not managing to pull off a Launch Pad suplex. (44% vs 75%)

(15:41) Love hits a thrust kick to send Frehley to the corner, slaps him in the chest, and chokes him out before missing a running knee drop. (37% vs 61%)

(17:02) Frehley hits a Frehley suplex throw, then goes for a flying lariat but Love trips him and locks on a side headlock. (27% vs 59%)

(18:11) Love locks on a Boston crab but lets go when he can't get the submission. He follows up with a stomp to the groin then a running knee drop, but wastes time taunting Frehley, who gets up. (27% vs 45%)

(20:19) Frehley misses a flying lariat and Love takes control again, knocking him down with a flying forearm and then hitting a DDT and a huge frog splash, which gets two and three quarters.

(21:20) Love goes for a low blow but Frehley counters with a huge choke press slam, then drags him off the floor and summons every bit of energy to lift him up and slam him over the top rope and to the outside, via a painful looking bump on the apron on the way down. Exhausted, Steve sinks to his knees but Love can't beat the count back in.

Steve Frehley beats Owen Love via count-out (Choke Slam of Death) in 20:19.

**** A very good, highly competitive match, which went back and forth in dramatic fashion.

Quickest match: Marat Khoklov vs Troy Tornado

Best match: Tommy Cornell vs Steve DeColt

I'll put some prediction standings up tomorrow, and some scouting reports on Wednesday - next round should be Thursday night, so you have about 72 hours if you want to predict.

Predictions key for next round:

Faith vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Minnesota

Dan Stone Jr vs Champagne Lover

Steve DeColt vs Hawkins

Jack Bruce vs Rogue

RDJ vs Khoklov

Golden vs Hayes

Eisen vs Frehley

Quickest match:

Best match:

Peppermint Rage · December 10, 2013

Faith vs Remo

Bloodstone vs Minnesota

Dan Stone Jr vs Champagne Lover

Steve DeColt vs Hawkins

Jack Bruce vs Rogue

RDJ vs Khoklov

Golden vs Hayes

Eisen vs Frehley

Quickest match: Eisen Vs Freley

Best match: Faith Vs Remo

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CVerse 32 - The Tournament

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