WWF 1997: Rise of the Rattlesnake

Sweatsock · November 19, 2014

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WWF 1997: Rise of the Rattlesnake

Start Date: Monday, Week 1, December 1997

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"Bret Screwed Bret"

"Some would would say I screwed Bret Hart. Bret Hart would definitely tell you I screwed him. I look at it from a different standpoint. I look at it from the standpoint of: the referee did not screw Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels certainly did not screw Bret Hart, nor did Vince McMahon screw Bret Hart. I truly believe that Bret Hart screwed Bret Hart. And he can look in the mirror and know that."

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THE WRESTLING WRAP

Your #1 source for the inside scoop on professional wrestling today.

Preview of The Wrestling Wrap #145, Friday Week 1 December 1997:

In this week's wrestling we'll have a full write up of the fall out from Vince McMahon's sensational interview with Jim Ross, which aired last week on RAW is WAR.

In addition, we'll have full coverage of this week's WWF RAW is WAR and WCW Monday Nitro as well as a look ahead to this Sunday's WWF Pay-Per-View, In Your House: D-Generation X.

Plus all of our usual bonus features. Subscribe now!!

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WWF RAW is WAR

Monday Week 1, December 1997

Preview

Local advertisement for this week's RAW is WAR

WWF Tag Team Championship Action as The New Age Outlaws defend against The New Blackjacks
Ahmed Johnson in action up against the Nation of Domination's D'Lo Brown
The gang warfare continues as Savio Vega takes on Chainz
Plus, WWF Intercontinental champion 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin will be in action

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OOC: first real go at doing this folks, so be gentle. Will be using Genadi's fantastic 1997 mod for the diary and will hopefully have the first RAW and Shotgun up tomorrow morning.

Beejus · November 19, 2014

Looks good so far, always glad to see Montreal Aftermath getting some love! Good luck!

RKOwnage · November 19, 2014

'F' yeah. Good luck! #BretScrewedBret

Sweatsock · November 20, 2014

<div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/WWFRawisWar_zps91b6442f.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/WWFRawisWar_zps91b6442f.jpg</a> WORLD WRESTLING FEDERATION RAW IS WAR</div> <div style="text-align:center;">Monday, Week 1, December 1997</div> *Opening Pyro goes off as the announcers welcome us to RAW is WAR <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/JimRoss4_zps7601f675.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/JimRoss4_zps7601f675.jpg</a><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/JerryLawler7_zpsc5c34843.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/JerryLawler7_zpsc5c34843.jpg</a></div> JR: Welcome everyone to RAW is WAR. I'm J.R., Jim Ross joined tonight by Jerry 'The King' Lawler and we are live form the sold out Target Centre in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We are just 6 days away from In Your House: D-Generation X and King, we have one heck of a show on the cards. King: That's right J.R., finally people are starting to get sick of 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin and tonight Commissioner Slaughter has told us that Austin will defend his Intercontinental title. With a little luck Austin won't even make it to his scheduled defence against The Rock this Sunday. * Glass Shatters <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/SteveAustin7_zps732ab7d7.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/SteveAustin7_zps732ab7d7.jpg</a></div> WWF Intercontinental Champion, 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin makes his way to the ring and we get a promo: Austin: "Ladies and Gentlemen I would like to make it very clear that I could not give a rat's ass who I will be facing tonight. (Crowd Cheers) In fact, my only problem is that I want to know what the hell 'Stone Cold' has to do to be the number one contender for Shawn Michael's WWF Heavyweight title. Ya' see I've beat every son of a bitch that's been put in front of me and yet Ken Shamrock is the getting the shot this Sunday. Now, I ain't got a problem with Ken Shamrock, matter of fact I think he might well be the toughest guy in this company that isn't named Steve Austin. But that don't change the fact that I've earned a shot at that title and I don't care who....... <div style="text-align:center;">WE ARE THE NATION OF DOMINATION</div> <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/TheRock11_zps07cbdc29.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/TheRock11_zps07cbdc29.jpg</a></div> The Rock appears on the stage flanked by Kama Mustafa and D'lo Brown. No sign of Farooq. Rocky: Now just hold on a minute Steve. You can't go running your mouth about title shots when you have yet to defend your shiny Intercontinental belt against The Rock. You see, this Sunday you will go one-on-one with an athlete, a physical specimen the likes of which you have never seen. Now, come this Sunday, I would suggest you get your head out of your ass and get ready to face The Rock. In fact,.... Austin: Woah, woah, woah, hold it right there son. 'Stone Cold' doesn't care who you are, who your daddy is and hell I don't even care who Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum right next to you are. The fact is Stone Cold is walking in to that match on Sunday, opening up a can of whoop ass on you and all your little buddies, and then walking out of there still the Intercontinental Champion, and that's all I got to say about that. And when that's all said and done I will be going on to face Shawn Michael's for the WWF Heavyweight Championship. And that's the bottom line because 'Stone Cold' said so.... *End segment ______________________________ <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38663" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/SavioVega_zps5f979bc6.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/SavioVega_zps5f979bc6.jpg</a> VS <a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/BrianLee3_zps36e131f0.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/BrianLee3_zps36e131f0.jpg</a> Savio Vega Vs Chainz is up next in a continuation of the recent 'Gang Warfare' A back and forth match with neither man accompanied by stable mates. Chainz has chances to win the match but a close kick-out at 2 and a foot on the ropes keeps Vega in the match. The finish comes at (9:43) when Miguel appears at ringside and distracts Chainz who turns round to a Caribbean Kick from Savio Vega for the pinfall. Winner = Savio Vega by pinfall.</div></div></blockquote> _________________________________ *Ahhhhhh, ahhh, ahh, ahhhhhh. <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/DudeLove_zps79a21943.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/DudeLove_zps79a21943.jpg</a></div> Dude Love is in the ring as return from commercial. He has a microphone in hand but before he can speak...... <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/BrianJames2_zps1ee0193b.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/BrianJames2_zps1ee0193b.jpg</a><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/BillyGunn3_zpse6455cc9.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/BillyGunn3_zpse6455cc9.jpg</a></div> The New Age Outlaws rush the ring and jump the Dude from behind. Dude Love bravely tries to fight them off but succumbs to the numbers and then is leveled by a huge chair shot from Road Dogg. Another chair shot to the head follows from Billy Gunn as officials rush the ring and help Dude Love to the back. <div style="text-align:center;"><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38663" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/BillyGunn3_zpse6455cc9.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/BillyGunn3_zpse6455cc9.jpg</a><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/BrianJames2_zps1ee0193b.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/BrianJames2_zps1ee0193b.jpg</a> VS <a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/BlackjackBradshaw_zpsd9175312.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/BlackjackBradshaw_zpsd9175312.jpg</a><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/BlackjackWindham_zps0e9eb1e2.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/BlackjackWindham_zps0e9eb1e2.jpg</a> WWF Tag Team Championship Match New Age Outlaws © Vs The New Blackjacks A back and forth match with lots of crowd heat on the Outlaws following their assault on Dude Love moments ago. Although the New Blackjack's have plenty of the match they never really look like taking the belts and when Windham misses a lariat attempt on Billy Gunn he turns round and is caught by Gunn for a piledriver and the pinfall finish at (9:53). Winners and still Tag Team Champions = The New Age Outlaws </div><div style="text-align:center;"></div><div></div></blockquote></div> ___________________________________________ We return from commercial and Vince McMahon is in the ring with Commissioner Slaughter. <div style="text-align:center;"> <a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/VinceMcMahon2_zps30b80063.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/VinceMcMahon2_zps30b80063.jpg</a><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/SgtSlaughter2_zps0460c164.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/SgtSlaughter2_zps0460c164.jpg</a></div> Vince: Ladies and Gentleman, at this time I would like to give WWF Commissioner, Sergeant Slaughter the opportunity to address some of the recent happenings here in the World Wrestling Federation. Sarge: Thank you, Mr McMahon. As commissioner of the World Wrestling Federation it is my duty to ensure that order is maintained. To this end, 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin (fans cheer) is becoming an increasing thorn in my side. I would like to go on record and state that no matter the outcome of his match this Sunday against The Rock, Mr. Austin will not be considered for a WWF Heavyweight title opportunity at this point. Vince: It is my understanding that Steve Austin has yet to learn the identity of his opponent for his scheduled title defence tonight. Are you able to fill us in on that now? Sarge: Yes I am. Tonight 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin will defend his Intercontinental Title against Farrooq. ____________________________ A promo video for IYH: D-Generation X airs, The current lineup looks like this: WWF Tag Team Title Match The New Age Outlaws © Vs The Legion of Doom European Championship Match Triple H © Vs Dude Love Farooq Vs Chainz - Biker Chain Match Kane Vs Vader WWF Intercontinental Title Match 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin © The Rock *If Austin is not champion it's a non title match. WWF Heavyweight Title Match Shawn Michaels © Vs Ken Shamrock ________________________________ We come back, the arena goes RED and Kane's music hits. <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/Kane2_zpsf2ab1798.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/Kane2_zpsf2ab1798.jpg</a></div> w/ Paul Bearer Kane and Paul Bearer are in the ring. Kane lets off his pyro and Bearer has a microphone. Before he can speak however we hear the voice of The Undertaker. <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/TheUndertaker8_zps180763c4.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/TheUndertaker8_zps180763c4.jpg</a> "No matter what time passes, no matter how many souls depart, I will not fight you Kane. I will not draw blood from my own flesh."</div> *lights out and fade to commercial _______________________________________ <div style="text-align:center;"><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38663" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/AhmedJohnson_zps25bcb220.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/AhmedJohnson_zps25bcb220.jpg</a> VS <a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/DLoBrown2_zps8b55c71c.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/DLoBrown2_zps8b55c71c.jpg</a> Ahmed Johnson continues his battles against The Nation of Domination with a singles match against D'Lo Brown. It's worth noting that D'Lo is unaccompanied for this one, presumably the rest of the Nation are getting ready for Farrooq's match with Austin later tonight. The match is back and forth with D'Lo getting in a surprising amount of offence. Ultimately it's not enough though and after Ahmed survives a top rope legdrop for a 2 count, he catches D'Lo with a HUUUGGGEEE spinebuster for the pinfall at (9:49) Winner = Ahmed Johnson. </div><div style="text-align:center;"></div><div></div></blockquote></div> ___________________________________ Are You Ready?..... <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/ShawnMichaels12_zps20c4e9b6.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/ShawnMichaels12_zps20c4e9b6.jpg</a><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/TripleH9_zps9d6f30b9.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/TripleH9_zps9d6f30b9.jpg</a></div> D-Generation X make their way to the ring accompanied by Chyna. The both have a sheet of paper in their hands. Michaels: Ladies and Gentleman. Transsexuals and hemaphrodites. I would like to take this opportunity to apologise to you for my recent, and future, conduct. I have been a bad man. Triple H: I also, have been a bad man. I wish to make clear that from this day forth that I will no longer make fun of the sick, the elderly or the Harts. Thank You. They leave as King laughs hysterically and Jim Ross says he's disgusted. ____________________________________ <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38663" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;"> WWF Intercontinental Title Match <a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/SteveAustin7_zps2e5ae123.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/SteveAustin7_zps2e5ae123.jpg</a> VS <a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/RonSimmons4_zps6b2167bb.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/RonSimmons4_zps6b2167bb.jpg</a> 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin © Vs Farooq 'Stone Cold' Lays out Kama on his way to the ring and The Rock backs off but distracts Austin enough to allow Farooq to jump him before the bell. Farooq throws Austin in to the ring and dominates the early going. Austin fights back and hits all of his trademark spots before the ref gets bumped. In comes The Rock and Austin dispatches him. Kama jumps from behind and hits a shoulder breaker on Austin. Austin eats a spinebuster from Farooq and the referee recovers for 1......2.......Kick out from Austin! Rock on the apron and Farooq rushes Austin but a quick duck from Austin and Farooq collides with The Rock! Faroow turn round and in to a Stunner for 1....2......3 at (15:58) Winner and STILL WWF Intercontinental Champion ' Stone Cold' Steve Austin. The Nation leaves as 'Stone Cold' celebrates in the ring. </div></div></blockquote> ____________________________________ The announcer are about to end the show when J.R. tells us that they are receiving word of a backstage incident: <div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://s1374.photobucket.com/user/aom_ref/media/KenShamrock3_zps0ce40c22.jpg.html" rel="external nofollow">http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/KenShamrock3_zps0ce40c22.jpg</a></div> We're backstage in a gymnasium are where ken Shamrock is lying on the ground holding his knee. He's surrounded by trainers and EMT's and appears to be in a lot of pain. It appears that Shamrock's knee has been trapped in the leg press. Jim Ross: Folks we are outta time and we will update you as soon as we can on the status of Ken Shamrock and the cause of his injury. *show fades out _________________________________________ Card for IYH: D-Generation X: WWF Tag Team Title Match The New Age Outlaws © Vs The Legion of Doom European Championship Match Triple H © Vs Dude Love Farooq Vs Chainz - Biker Chain Match Kane Vs Vader WWF Intercontinental Title Match 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin © The Rock WWF Heavyweight Title Match Shawn Michaels © Vs Ken Shamrock ___________________________________

Warhawk8492 · November 23, 2014

WWF Tag Team Title Match

The New Age Outlaws © Vs The Legion of Doom

European Championship Match

Triple H © Vs Dude Love

Farooq Vs Chainz - Biker Chain Match

Kane Vs Vader

WWF Intercontinental Title Match

'Stone Cold' Steve Austin © The Rock

WWF Heavyweight Title Match

Shawn Michaels © Vs Ken Shamrock

daulten6 · November 23, 2014

WWF Tag Team Title Match

The New Age Outlaws © Vs The Legion of Doom

European Championship Match

Triple H © Vs Dude Love

Farooq Vs Chainz - Biker Chain Match

Kane Vs Vader

WWF Intercontinental Title Match

'Stone Cold' Steve Austin © The Rock

WWF Heavyweight Title Match

Shawn Michaels © Vs Ken Shamrock

Sweatsock · November 24, 2014

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WWF SHOTGUN SATURDAY NIGHT

Saturday, Week 1, December 1997

Highlights and Notable Events

WWF are now taping Shotgun Saturday Night each Tuesday in the same venue; the EXPO Centre at Madison Square Garden.
The feel of the show is now more adult orientated with bar areas and more of a nightclub feel, similar to the initial Shotgun run before they started taping it before RAW.
This week's show included an opening segment with Sable welcoming us to the new Shotgun, a Jim Cornette interview that hinted at new tag team debuting, a Vader vignette highlighting his training regime and a recap of Ken Shamrock's accident in the gymnasium that was shown at the end of RAW is WAR. According to this video Shamrock will still be facing Shawn Michaels at this Sunday's PPV.

Matches

Bob Holl over the Brooklyn Brawler (7:05) by pinfall after top rope legdrop
Road Dogg over Flash Funk (6:35) by pinfall after hitting Funk with the tag title belt.
Bart Gunn over Marc Mero (10:50) by pinfall after a sit-out powerbomb

Highlight

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Rob Van Dam and Sabu appeared and attacked Steve Blackman in the ring!

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THE WRESTLING WRAP

Issue #145, Friday Week 1, December 1997

What's on TV?

A strong outing from the WWF this week with RAW is WAR getting really good reviews from fans. The build for this weekend's IYH: D-Generation X Pay-Per-View had been a little lackluster but Monday's show seems to have spiked most people's interest, although the WWF will be disappointed to have finished almost a full rating point behind this week's WCW Nitro.

Gossip

Well placed sources have informed us that the fallout from what has been dubbed 'The Montreal Screwjob' is still being felt far and wide in the WWF and beyond. That said, numerous insiders have confirmed that Vince McMahon will indeed be pressing ahead and pushing himself as a top heel character. From this week's RAW is WAR it appeared that the heat was on Sgt. Slaughter as opposed to McMahon but this is set to change.

One other notable fact is that although Bret Hart, Jim Neidhart and Davey Boy Smith are done with the WWF, nothing is set in stone about Bret's brother Owen.

There has been internal talk within the WWF that their roster is lacking in depth right now and that they need to build some new stars quickly. Some people are in favour of bringing in one or two big name free agents to bolster the ranks but Vince McMahon is thought to be leaning more towards creating news stars as opposed to relying on older guys. With this in mind, Vince recently met with Paul Heyman and a major point of discussion was some more cross-promotional material between the two companies. Whether this goes anywhere or fizzles out the way it did this past summer remains to be seen.

Pay Per View Prediction Game

WWF Tag Team Title Match

The New Age Outlaws © Vs The Legion of Doom

European Championship Match

Triple H © Vs Dude Love

Farooq Vs Chainz - Biker Chain Match

Kane Vs Vader

WWF Intercontinental Title Match

'Stone Cold' Steve Austin © The Rock

WWF Heavyweight Title Match

Shawn Michaels © Vs Ken Shamrock

Sweatsock · November 27, 2014

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WORLD WRESTLING FEDERATION

PRESENTS

IN YOUR HOUSE: D-GENERATION X

Sunday, Week1, December 1997

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/JimRoss4_zps7601f675.jpg http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/JerryLawler7_zpsc5c34843.jpg

*Opening Pyro goes off.

J.R.: Welcome everyone to World Wrestling Federation, In Your House: D-Generation X. I'm Jim Ross, alongside Jerry 'The King' Lawler' and folks tonight we see both Shawn Michaels and Hunter Hearst Helmsley put their titles on the line. At this time let me direct your attention to the ring as we are set to hear from WWF chairman Vince McMahon and Commissioner Slaughter regarding the status of the challengers in those matches.

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Vince McMahon: Ladies and Gentlemen I would first of all like to thank each and every one of you in this arena and watching at home for being a part of this event. Now, with that in mind I know you are all anxious to hear about Ken Shamrock's participation tonight and I believe Commissioner Slaughter can elaborate on that.

SGT. Slaughter: Thank you Mr McMahon. Fortunately, Ken Shamrock has been cleared to compete this evening after passing a rigorous physical examination today by WWF doctors. Therefore Ken Shamrock will indeed challenge Shawn Michaels for the WWF title here tonight. Regarding the challenger in the European Title match, as of this moment in time I have not been able to reach Dude Love, Mick Foley and I am unaware of his current physical condition. Therefore, I expect Hunter Hearst Helmsley to make his way to the ring for the scheduled match and should Dude Love not appear, Mr Helmsley will be declared the winner by forfeit.

McMahon: Thank you Commissioner Slaughter. Now, before we get this show underway i would like to address one more issue. Namely, the conduct of a certain 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin this past week on RAW is WAR. Quite frankly, Mr Austin's general attitude and use of abusive language will not be tolerated here in the World Wrestling Federation. I myself have already been subjected to physical assault by Mr Austin and this can no longerbe tolerated.

Slaughter: Yes sir, Mr McMahon and you have my assurance that should 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin put his hands on you in any way, shape or form he will be suspended immediately and stripped of his Intercontinental Title.

*Glass Breaks

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Austin comes out to a thunderous pop. He circles the ring before getting in and coming face to face with McMahon and Slaughter.

Austin gets up in McMahon's face without touching him before turning to face Slaughter. Austin drops Slaughter with a Stunner, his music restarts and he heads back up the aisle!

__________________________________

WWF TAG-TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

The New Age Outlaws © Vs The Legion of Doom w/Sunny

A good back and forth match with both teams getting in some good offense before Hawk and Animal start to gain the upperhand.

L.O.D have Billy Gunn up for the Doomsday Device when Jim Cornette comes to ringside and causes a distraction. As the referee is dealing with Cornette, Bart Gunn and Bob Holly sneak in to the ring. Bart Gunn pushes Hawk off the top rope and Bob Holly nails Animal in the kidneys, causing Animal to go down with Billy Gun on top.

Holly and Bart Gunn clear the ring as the referee turns around to see Billy Gunn covering Animal. 1....2...3..Your winners and still WWF Tag Team Champions (at 9:21), The New Age Outlaws.

____________________________________

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Hunter Hearst Helmsley is in the ring with Chyna. He demands that the ref count to 10 and declare him the winner.

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Mankind appears on the video wall and cuts a promo.

Mankind: Oh Hunter, what have you done? Poor old Dude Love. Nobody wanted Dude Love to die. And y'know, he didn't die of old age in a nice retirement home. He (shouting) WAS MURDERED!. You killed him you sick son of a bitch. You killed him and now all that's left is me, Mankind.

WWF EUROPEAN TITLE MATCH
Hunter Hearst Helmsley © w/Chyna Vs Mankind

What a match this was, back and forth with both guys swinging for the fences and coming up just short.Mankind gets a 2 count from a pile driver and Helmsley gets the same from a spinebuster.

The ref gets bumped at the 11 minute mark and Chyna takes advantage by nailing Mankind with the ring bell. She rouses the ref, and Helmsley nails the Pedigree on Mankind who is bleeding profusely underneath is mask. The ref is fully recovered and counts 1......2.....kickout from Mankind!

The crowd are going nuts but Helmsley isn't done and lifts Mankind back up for another Pedigree. 1.....2......3... the winner and still WWF European Champion; Hunter Hearts Helmsley.

___________________________________

BIKER CHAIN MATCH
Farooq Vs Chainz

Standard strap match rules in this one with the winner being the first man to touch all 4 corners.

Chainz starts strongly and goes up 2-0. Farooq uses his natural strength to restore the balance at 2-2.

We get to 3-3 and both guys try to hit their signature moves but its awkward because of the chain attaching them to each other. Finally Chainz gets the chain caught under his leg and Farooq yanks it up for an excruciating low blow, allowing him to touch the fourth corner at 8:56.

Winner.....Farooq

_____________________________________________

Kane Vs Vader

The announcers really out this over as a battle of the giants. Both guys come face to face in the ring and trade some stiff shots to start the match.

Kane takes over by no selling some Vader forearms and hitting a huuuge sidewalk slam for 2.

Vader works his way back in the match and a Vader splash in the corner gets him 2 but Kane kicks out with authority.

Both men are facing each other about to charge when Vader is distracted bu a very strangely dressed Goldust. This allows Kane to grab Vader for a chokeslam and 1....2.....3...(12:22)

Winner...Kane

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/TheUndertaker8_zps180763c4.jpg

Post match we hear the Undertaker's voice:

Undertaker: Kane, I will not fight you. I ask your forgiveness but I will not fight you for my redemption.

_______________________________________

WWF INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE MATCH
'Stone Cold' Steve Austin © Vs The Rock

The crowd are hot for this one and both guys mouth off to each other before they start to brawl. A cheap shot from The Rock puts him in control. Some back and forth action before a running powerslam gets a 2 count for The Rock.

Austin regains some control and has The Rock reeling when Sgt. Slaughter makes his way to ringside. Austin and Sarge exchange words on the outside and Austin shoves Sarge on to his ass.

Back in the ring and The Rock gets a close 2 count from a DDT. Sarge is on the apron and The Rock tries to whip Austin towards him but it gets reversed and The Rock and Sarge collide on the ring apron!

The Rock turns round right in to a Stone Cold Stunner for 1....2....3..winner (at 18:06) and still WWF Intercontinental Champion, 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin.

____________________________________________

WWF HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MATCH
Ken Shamrock vs Shawn Michaels w/HHH and Chyna ©

Shamrock's knee is heavily bandaged and he's wearing a knee brace. Helmsley and Chyna try to get involved in the early going but get ejected by the referee!

The match then goes back and forth and Shamrock works over the lower leg of HBK. This makes it hard for Michales to stand well enough to hit Sweet Chin Music but some underhanded tactics keep him in the match and works over the injured leg of Shamrock throughout.

Helmsley reappears at the 15 minute mark and the referee goes outside to eject him for a second time. This allows Michaels to position Shamrock's leg around the ring post before cracking a steel chair over it!

The ref gets back in and HBK puts Shamrock in the Figure 4 Leglock. Shamrock refuses to tap however and eventually passes out from the pain as the referee calls for the bell.

Winner by referee stoppage at 16:55 and still WWF Heavyweight Champion, Shawn Michaels.

________________________________________

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/ShawnMichaels12_zps20c4e9b6.jpg

Shawn Michaels is celebrating in the ring alone when suddenly......

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/OwenHart7_zps003e2892.jpg

Jim Ross: It's Owen Hart, it's Owen Hart! The brother of the man screwed over by Shawn Michaels and Vince McMahon last month at Survivor Series! Hart is beating the living crap out of Michaels!

WWF officials flood the ring and Michales escapes as the PPV goes off the air.

Sweatsock · December 3, 2014

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/WWFRawisWar_zps91b6442f.jpg

WORLD WRESTLING FEDERATION

RAW IS WAR

Monday, Week 2, December 1997

*Opening Pyro

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/JimRoss4_zps7601f675.jpg http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/JerryLawler7_zpsc5c34843.jpg

J.R.: Welcome everyone to another action packed edition of RAW is WAR. I'm Jim Ross, alongside Jerry 'The King' Lawler and we are live here tonight from the sold out Cox Convention Centre in the Sooner State, Oklahoma.

King: Yeah, and it's unfortunate that we're here on the same night that the governor's mansion burned down. Almost took out the whole trailer park!

J.R: Oh, please! This is a serious night King, because we have been informed that the chairman of the World Wrestling Federation, Vince McMahon will be joining us momentarily and word came down this afternoon that a top superstar has rejoined the World Wrestling Federation and will be in action against The Undertaker. Speculation is rife as to the identity of this superstar, and with the fallout from last night's incredible pay-per-view we could be in for a life changing night.

___________________________________

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/VinceMcMahon2_zps30b80063.jpgwithhttp://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/SgtSlaughter2_zps0460c164.jpg

Vince McMahon: Ladies and gentlemen at this time I would like to address the events of the Intercontinental championship match from last night's pay-per-view. During the course of this match the defending champion 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin put his hands on a WWF official, namely the man who stands beside me right now, Commissioner Slaughter. Now given, the serious nature of this offence I have been left with no choice but to strip Mr Austin of the Intercontinental title with immediate effect and award the match and the championship to The Rock as the result of a forfeiture.

(Crowd boos loudly)

However, in the interests of fairness it has been decided that The Rock will have his first title defence here tonight and he will defend against Ken Shamrock.

___________________________________________

Vader Vs. Marc Mero w/Sable

Vader is out first followed by Marc Mero, with Sable, and we have our first match of the evening.

A fairly even bout with Vader on the front foot for most of it with some typically heel-ish antics from Mero, including a very close 2 count from a roll-up with his feet on the middle rope.

A big belly to belly suplex could finish from Vader but Mero rolls under the rope before Vader can cover him. Back inside and Vader jacks Mero up for the powerbomb and the 1....2....3 at 9:44.

Winner: Vader

Post Match:

Goldust appears at the rope of the ramp. He's wearing a giant fat suit and and is dressed like Vader! This angers Vader and Goldust runs backstage as Vader makes his way up the ramp.

___________________________________________

The Headbangers Vs The Godwinns

Straight into the second match of the night and it's tag team action with The Headbangers going up against The Godwinns.

Forumal tag match with the heat on Thrasher for the early going, hot tag brings in Mosh who hits the Mosh Pit on Phineas but Henry breaks up the pin at 2.

Some double team moves from The Headbangers and they look like they have it won at the 9 minute mark but Thrasher covers Phineas when Henry is the legal man. In amongst the confusion Henry drops Thrasher with the Slop Drop at 9:51 for the 1....2....3...

Winners: The Godwinns

Post Match:

The Headbanger are still in the ring arguing with the referee about the finish when....

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/BobHolly3_zps43f2ec51.jpg&http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/MikeBarton2_zps77c6349c.jpg

Pain Inc. hit the ring and take out the Headbangers! The hit a double powerbomb on Mosh and leave.

________________________________________

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/Mankind2_zpsbdef5311.jpg

We see a video of Mankind and he appears to be back in the boiler room. We only see closeups of his face throughout the promo.

Mankind: Oh man, Hunter, oh man you've gone and done it haven't you. We know that the New Age Outlaws didn't kill Dude Love. They may have struck the blows but even a blind man can see that that had your grubby little paw prints all over it. You couldn't leave it there, could you? You couldn't walk away and say 'Hey, I beat Dude Love, I beat him good'. (Shouting) No, No, no! That's not good enough for you, is it? You had to turn your attention to poor old Mankind, a guy who's beaten the Undertaker more than any other and been through unimaginable pain in the process. You've turned Mankind in to General Robert. E. Lee and sent him on the retreat (Shouting) RETREAT, RETREAT! Mankind can't come back. Mankind won't come back. Mankind doesn't need to come back. But don't you worry, 'cause I'm alright Jack.

_____________________________________

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/SgtSlaughter2_zps0460c164.jpg

Commissioner Slaughter is making his way to the ring and appears to be carrying a new Intercontinental title. Before he can get to the ring however.....

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/SteveAustin7_zps732ab7d7.jpg

J.R: It's Austin, it's Austin! The man who was stripped of the Inercontinetal championship earlier tonight. He's beating the Sarge, he's taking him to the woodshed

Austin beats down on Sarge until literally two dozen WWF staffers, referees and security personnel get the Sarge to safety.

________________________________________

J.R: Ladies and gentlemen, speculation has been rife as to who the Undertaker's opponent will be tonight. We're about to find out.

*Music

"Jeff, can you feel it? Jeff , I can't believe it. Jeff, you got me feelin' good."

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/JeffJarrett5_zps1e20749a.jpg

It's Jeff Jarrett! Double J makes his return to the WWF from WCW.

The Undertaker Vs Jeff Jarrett

Jarrett has a mic and is about to cut a promo when the lights go out, the bong hits and The Undertaker makes his way out for the match.

The Undertaker is in control early on and is striking very aggressively, like he's really p'd off. 5 minutes in and Kane and Paul Bearer appear at the top of the ramp but they stay there and don't approach the ring.

That's enough of a distraction for Jarrett to have some of the match though and he starts to exert some pressure on the Undertaker's lower body. Anytime the Undertaker has the advantage he lets it slip a she looks towards Kane and Bearer at the top of he ramp and allows Jarrett back in to the match.

Finally, Jarrett has the Undertaker in the figure 4 leglock in the centre of the ring. Just when it looks all over The Undertaker SITS UP! He hammers Jarrett with some big shots and breaks the hold , one chokeslam later and The Undertaker covers for the 1...2.....3 at (10:58)

Winner: The Undertaker

Post Match:

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/Kane2_zpsf2ab1798.jpg

The Undertaker stays in the ring as Jarrett and the referee leave. He looks like he's trying to make a decision. Finally 'Taker starts to move towards the ropes when Kane's pyro erupts from the corners of the ring. As 'Taker steps back a fireball flies from one of the ring posts and directly in to his face! The Undertaker goes down as Kane & Bearer leave and officials flood the ring.

______________________________________

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/ShawnMichaels12_zps20c4e9b6.jpg & http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/TripleH9_zps9d6f30b9.jpg

with Chyna

D-Generation X make their way to the ring.

Michaels: Ok, ok, ok. Now, we have not always been the nicest of people. In fact, we're jerks. The biggest jerks, huge jerks. But come on, what the hell is going on in this god damn company? Last night I was attacked after my match by the brother of a has-been. (Crowd boos) I'm sorry, you're right. Let me correct that. Last night I was attacked by the brother of a never-was! (crowd boos more)

Helmsley: Hey c'mon Shawn, you can't expect these people to understand that. I mean I'm out here getting attacked every week by some fruit bag who thinks he's a hippy one week and a madman the next and they're cheering for him!

HBK is about t respond when.....

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/OwenHart7_zps003e2892.jpg

J.R: Oh gosh, it's Owen Hart, Owen Hart's in the ring. Michaels is hightailing it, he wants nothing to do with Owen Hart.

Michaels escapes the ring and Owen tackles Helmsley they go down brawling and Owen gets the upperhand. Owen goes for a sharpshooter but Chyna pulls Helmsley to safety.

__________________________________________

WWF INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE MATCH
Ken Shamrock vs The Rock ©

Shamrock is out first followed by The Rock who has the belt that we saw Slaughter with earlier. The Rock is accompanied by the whole Nation, Faarooq, Kama and D'Lo.

This develops in to an outstanding match with some incredible back and forth action. Shamrock shows lots of fire and has The Rock on the back foot in the early going. The action spills outside and Kama and D'Lo look to sneak up on Shamrock with the referee distracted. D'Lo gets a belly-to-belly suplex for his troubles but Kama is able to get in a kick to the head before rolling Shamrock back inside.

That lets Rocky take over and a big spine buster gets him a close 2 count. Out of nowhere Shamrock rolls through on Rocky though and hooks him with the ankle lock! The Rock reaches for the ropes but Shamrock pulls him back to the centre of the ring. This brings Kama and D'Lo up on to the apron and the ref goes over and tells them to leave ringside, he goes outside to make sure they do. This distraction is enough for Faarooq to get in to the ring and nail Shamrock with a steel chair, Rocky rolls him up, the ref is back in and 1....2.....3...

Winner and Still Intercontinental Champion: The Rock

Post Match:

Faarooq and Rocky are in the ring beating down Shamrock when....

http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag407/aom_ref/SteveAustin7_zps732ab7d7.jpg

'Stone Cold' Steve Austin appears to make the save. He's met on the ramp by Kama and D'Lo.

Stunner for Kama! Stunner for D'Lo!

Austin gets in the ring and Faarooq and The Rock clear out. Austin is staring them down as RAW is WAR goes off the air.

___________________________________________

Notes

The show drew a sell out crowd of 13,399 and a 4.86 TV rating.

In dark matches before the live broadcast:

Ahmed Johnson beat the former Mable, now going by his real name of Nelson Knight, by count out at 7:53

Savio Vega beat Flash Funk by pinfall at 7:57 after a Caribbean Kick.

Beejus · December 3, 2014

Hehe... The video intro to Jeff's theme tricked you, huh? I hate that there's no version of the actual original song on YouTube. Even the one that's there with the rap song on it is a remix by ibukimasta in 2000ish.

In all honesty, I've noticed a few small timeframe errors you've had; however, that's only due to the research I did on the time. Otherwise, you've been doing a good job of it. Keep it up

Sweatsock · December 3, 2014

Thanks man, have to admit the Jarrett thing was a total guess via YouTube so well spotted. Been watching a ton of '97 stuff on the Network but there's only a couple of full Raw's on from that period so been difficult to piece it together between there, Wiki and OWW etc. I had played that particular Raw in the game before looking in depth at it really or I would have handled the JJ stuff entirely different. Appreciate the feedback, still trying to find my feet with it at this stage so any constructive criticism is more than welcome.

The Nickman · December 3, 2014

There's a LOT of old RAWs from that timeframe on Youtube. I watched most of 1998 again at the end of last year. Full episodes too!

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