JCP: The Race To The Top [TGAAB]

evileddie10 · May 30, 2016

Unified NWA/AWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

Ricky Steamboat / Tully Blanchard vs. Ric Flair / Arn Anderson

NWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat © vs. Tully Blanchard

AWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

"Nature Boy" Ric Flair © vs. "The Enforcer" Arn Anderson

NWA World Tag Team Championship Match

"The Living Legend" Larry Zbyszko & "Ravishing" Rick Rude © vs. Totally Fantastic (Lex Luger & Terry Taylor)

Texas Death Match

"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes vs. Terry Funk

NWA United States Heavyweight Championship Match

The Warrior © vs. Barry Windham

Terry "Bam Bam" Gordy vs. Michael "P.S." Hayes

"Made in the U.S.A." Scott Steiner vs. Honky Tonk Man

Ladder Match for the NWA World Cruiserweight Championship

Hector Guerrero © vs. Eddie Guerrero

NWA World Television Championship Match

Jushin "Thunder" Liger © vs. Ron Simmons

Bonus Questions:

1. Which World Heavyweight Championship match will have the highest rating?

Flair/Arn

2. How long will the new Unified World Heavyweight Champion wrestle over his two matches?

57:21

From the other seven matches...

3. Which was the highest rated match on the show?

World Tag Match

4. Which was the lowest rated match on the show?

Liger vs Simmons

5. How many titles will change hands?

3

LordofGustav · June 1, 2016

Unified NWA/AWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

Ricky Steamboat / Tully Blanchard vs. Ric Flair / Arn Anderson

NWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat © vs. Tully Blanchard

AWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

"Nature Boy" Ric Flair © vs. "The Enforcer" Arn Anderson

NWA World Tag Team Championship Match

"The Living Legend" Larry Zbyszko & "Ravishing" Rick Rude © vs. Totally Fantastic (Lex Luger & Terry Taylor)

Texas Death Match

"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes vs. Terry Funk

NWA United States Heavyweight Championship Match

The Warrior © vs. Barry Windham

Terry "Bam Bam" Gordy vs. Michael "P.S." Hayes

"Made in the U.S.A." Scott Steiner vs. Honky Tonk Man

Ladder Match for the NWA World Cruiserweight Championship

Hector Guerrero © vs. Eddie Guerrero

NWA World Television Championship Match

Jushin "Thunder" Liger © vs. Ron Simmons

Bonus Questions:

1. Which World Heavyweight Championship match will have the highest rating? Flair vs. Anderson

2. How long will the new Unified World Heavyweight Champion wrestle over his two matches? 59:32

From the other seven matches...

3. Which was the highest rated match on the show? Rhodes vs. Funk

4. Which was the lowest rated match on the show? Liger vs. Simmons

5. How many titles will change hands? 2

Anderz · June 15, 2016

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">In pre-show matches; The Horde defeated The Thunder Express in 6:14 (37); Bam Bam Bigelow, Dynamite Kid & Don Muraco defeated Butch Reed, Larry Cameron & 2 Cold Scorpio in 7:19 (62).</div></div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/NWA%20Power%20Hour_zpsiwmozrmx.jpg NWA Power Hour December 29th, 1989 From the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center – Long Beach, CA Attendance: 13,354 Announce Team: Boyd Pierce & Nick Bockwinkel http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/BoydPierce_zps1053571f.jpghttp://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/NickBockwinkel1_zps65fdd458.jpg</div> The Road Warriors (Eagle & Doom) vs. Dustin Rhodes & Kendall Windham The Power Hour kicks off with a tag bout that will have Starrcade implications; as the winners will face Harlem Heat for the US Tag titles in a late addition to tomorrow night's pay-per-view. The Road Warriors have a short showcase early on; but despite their size and strength advantage they were no match for the hot young team of Rhodes and Windham. Dustin made light work of Eagle and a Running Bulldog gave his team the title shot tomorrow night at Starrcade. Winners: Dustin Rhodes & Kendall Windham in 6:20 Grade: 46 (D) After the match: The Enemy swarm upon the ring after the bell; with Harlem Heat leading the charge - Booker and Stevie attack their new number one contenders but before the group can do any real damage they are interrupted by the arrival of the Television Champion. Jushin Liger hits the ring and dives off the top rope, taking out Scorpio, Reed and Cameron. This gives Rhodes and Windham a second wind as they take control over Harlem Heat; knocking the Champions out of the ring. Simmons calmly exited the ring, realising he was fighting a losing battle - and the Enemy had been suppressed for now. Grade: 62 © "Ravishing" Rick Rude & "The Living Legend" Larry Zbyszko (w/ Missy Hyatt) vs. The Southern Boys (Steve Armstrong & Tracy Smothers) The World Tag Champions were in non-title action just twenty four hours before they were set to defend their title at Starrcade. Their opponents were an impressive young duo; but the Southern Boys proved to be nothing more than a warm-up for Rude and Zbyszko who eased to victory. Winners: Rick Rude & Larry Zbyszko in 10:37 Grade: 66 (C+) After the match: The team who will challenge for the World Tag titles tomorrow night, Totally Fantastic arrive at ringside and exchange a few choice words with the Champions. Luger and Taylor know they have been on a rocky run since losing the titles, but on the grandest stage they will perform at their very best and regain the titles. Rude and Zbyszko, unsurprisingly, disagree - leading to the four men to engage in a shouting and shoving match in the centre of the ring. This was interrupted by the arrival or Robin Green and her menacing Skyscrapers. Vicious and Spivey stepped over the top rope and stood between the Champions and challengers - signalling that they would be the next World Tag Team Champions regardless of who wins at Starrcade tomorrow night. Grades: 85 / 77 (B+ / B) Barry Windham (w/Ole Anderson) vs. "The Real American Hero" Sgt. Slaughter Fighting the former US Champion just mere hours before fighting for the US Heavyweight title is perfect preparation for Barry Windham. Sarge came out of the box like the true champion that he is and gave the Horsemen a few close calls early on. Slaughter was back to his impressive best; but Windham showed some grit and determination (and more than a little outside assistance from Ole) to battle back. Windham got a very close two count on the back of a strong lariat - but that was the perfect setup for the Superplex that did in fact get the three count. Winner: Barry Windham in 15:54 Grade: 79 (B) After the match: At the conclusion of our main event, the arena lights dimmed momentarily as thick smoke began to fill the arena. The lights flickered on and off as more and more smoke filled the arena. Inside the ring, the US Champion appeared next to Windham; the lights went off and back on again - but Warrior had moved, now stood on the apron next to Ole. Windham and Anderson both had a petrified look on their faces; as Warrior could apparently appear and disappear at will. Warrior finally appeared right in the face of Windham - he held the US Championship high and began to laugh in Windham's face as Power Hour drew to a close. Grade: 82 (B) <div style="text-align:center;">Overall Show Grade: 77 (B)</div> <hr noshade size=3> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">In pre-show matches; North-South Connection, Buddy Rose & Doug Somers defeated Stan Lane, Ron Garvin, Victor Zangiev & Salman Hashimikov in 7:43 (56); Eddie Guerrero & Kevin Sullivan defeated Hector Guerrero & Greg Gagne in 6:49 (60).</div></div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/FridayNightShowdown_zps19309d39.jpg Friday Night Showdown December 29th, 1989 From the Reunion Arena – Dallas, TX Attendance: 13,996 Announce Team: Tony Schiavone, Jim Ross & Magnum T.A. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Tony%20Schiavone%201_zpsnety9sqs.jpghttp://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/JimRoss_zps3573cbd6.jpghttp://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Magnum%20TA%2088%20Alt_zpsd3xmlyux.jpg</div> In-ring Interview: NWA Commissioner Harley Race kicks off Showdown talking about how Starrcade tomorrow night will change the face of professional wrestling. He also talks about tonight and how all four men in the Unified World Heavyweight Championship tournament will be in singles action. Before Race could discuss tonight's action in any great detail - he was interrupted by Tully Blanchard. The leader of the fractured Four Horsemen had a wry smile and the look of a man with a plan. Tully had a proposition for Race regarding Starrcade. Tully had been listening to Arn Anderson's interview last week about how it was his time to take the lead and prove himself - but having a rest between matches was not proving anything to anyone. Tully suggested that it was in Arn's best interest to wrestle back to back at Starrcade and prove himself without doubt; anything else would leave him questioning himself. Race butted in; telling Tully that he had his chance in last week's tag team match - but he blew it by not being able to get along with Ricky Steamboat. Tully told Race that he should do the right thing and at least put he option to Anderson and Ric Flair; he knew that their egos wouldn't be able to say no. Grades: 87 / 84 (B+ / B+) Terry "Bam Bam" Gordy vs. Diamond Dallas Page (w/ Michael Hayes) In a preview of tomorrow nights big Freebird vs Freebird battle; DDP stepped up in an effort to give Hayes the advantage in just 24 hours. Gordy, however, didn't give Page a chance to do any damage as he went on the assault from the off - at no point looking like a loss was on the cards. But he did t score the win in the conventional manner - as the match was clearly a vehicle for Hayes to get a sneak attack in. Hayes clobbered Gordy from behind and dropped him with a DDT to cause the disqualification; Gordy had won the match but could be survive the war? Winner by disqualification: Terry Gordy in 5:51 Grade: 76 (B-) After the match: The Freebirds looked to add injury to insult after the bell but the two on one situation didn't last for as long as they had hoped. It was the unlikely arrival of the seven foot Andre the Giant who put a rapid halt to the attack. The humongous Frenchman has had issues recently with the Freebirds and his arrival sent both Page and Hayes out of the ring quickly - exiting through the fans with their tails firmly tucked between their legs. Andre looked down at Gordy - but helped Bam Bam back up to his feet; it was clear here that the enemy of my enemy is my friend. Grade: 77 (B) Tully Blanchard (w/ Ole Anderson) vs. Wahoo McDaniel After already leaving an impact on the night with his last minute proposal to shake up Starrcade - Blanchard was in action against a veteran rival in McDaniel. Wahoo may no longer be at his peak, but he certainly knows his way around a wrestling ring - and was a constant threat to Tully. But with Starrcade just a day away, Blanchard was eager to spend as little time in the ring as possible tonight - wrapping the match up relatively early with a Piledriver. Winner: Tully Blanchard in 7:59 Grade: 80 (B) In the Interview Area: We join Terry Funk for comments ahead of the Texas Death match tomorrow night against erstwhile rival Dusty Rhodes. Funk is showing great confidence after he destroyed Dustin Rhodes in the same match earlier this month and he can't wait to give his fat daddy the same treatment; claiming it would be like leading a little piggy to slaughter before walking away snorting. We then cut to the American Dream himself; who has long held the opinion that the only reason Terry Funk is still around is to be a thorn in the side of the Rhodes family - tomorrow night that thorn is removed once and for all. Funk can talk the big talk, and sure he did a number on Dusty's kid son - but on the grandest stage at Starrcade, there will only be one man walking away from the Texas Death match and that man is a Rhodes. Grade: 97 (A*) Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. Big Boss Man Continuing our theme of warm-up matches, Steamboat was tasked with the rough and ready enforcement officer - the Big Boss Man. The Dragon was doing his best to get the job done without over exerting himself - but Boss Man is certainly no pushover and came close to stealing an upset over the NWA Champion. But Steamboat did what Champions do and pulled it out when it mattered - a Diving Cross Body Block from the top rope enough for the three. Winner: Ricky Steamboat in 8:31 Grade: 78 (B) In the Interview Area: We continued our Starrcade preview interviews as we heard from the Honky Tonk Man - he was feeling cool and cocky about his Starrcade match; and the self-proclaimed Greatest World Champion of All-Time was looking forward to this victory earning him his rightful place back at the main table. Scott Steiner was up next, and after giving a shoutout to his brother Ricky - he told of the great pride he had to be wrestling at his first Starrcade. He knew he had what it took to defeat Honky Tonk Man and he was looking towards his first victory of many on the grandest stage. Grade: 85 (B+) "The Enforcer" Arn Anderson (w/ Ole Anderson) vs. "Cowboy" Bob Orton Jr. Back in the ring and it was time for the only man in the Starrcade tournament who isn't a former World Champion to face his warm-up match. Anderson was paired with an angry former ally in Bob Orton - who was still reeling from the effects of being booted unceremoniously out of the Four Horsemen. Cowboy Bob was wild and reckless from the off, but the all this did was allow the Enforcer to pick his spots and go in for the kill when Orton was at his most vulnerable - which he did with his expertly executed Spinebuster. Winner: Arn Anderson in 9:57 Grade: 82 (B) "Nature Boy" Ric Flair vs. "Hacksaw" Butch Reed (w/ Mr. T) It was finally main event time, as the AWA Champion had to face one of the heavy hitters from The Enemy - complete with the distracting Mr. T at ringside. Hacksaw knew he couldn't win the title tonight but he could sure make an impression and launch himself straight into the post-Starrcade title picture - and that was evident from his ruthless approach. The Nature Boy was caught off guard but diligently fought back once Reed had punched himself - eventually outlasting Reed and securing the submission with the Figure Four. Winner: Ric Flair in 15:38 Grade: 88 (B+) In the ring: With the Nature Boy celebrating in the ring, he was joined by the return of his Starrcade opponent - Arn Anderson. Double A didn't want to speak for Flair but if he knew the sixty minute man he wouldn't have any objections to what Arn was about to say - at Starrcade, Race can order the matches however he wants - Arn will wrestle back-to-back, back-to-front, for an hour or for a day - it didn't matter because he was leaving with both titleS. Flair voiced his approval with that decision with a loud "Wooo" before Ricky Steamboat arrived. The Dragon was happy either way, he knew he had to beat two of the very best and it didn't matter what order he did it in. This left Tully Blanchard to saunter out onto the stage; complete with a big grin - had his opponents just been played by his mind games and had they in fact stacked the deck in favour of the former Champion? Find out tomorrow night as the eighties end in unity at Starrcade in Minneapolis! Grade: 93 (A) <div style="text-align:center;">Overall Show Grade: 89 (A)</div> <hr noshade size=3> Apologies that this has taken so long to get to; it's been painfully long but the go-home shows are finally here. I'm simming and writing Starrcade as I post this so fingers cross the granddaddy of them all won't be too far away. Thanks a lot to everyone who has predicted and kept reading since 2016 has been launched; hopefully Starrcade will be worth the wait!

eldandythedoubter · June 16, 2016

This show does very little to sate my wait Anderz. But take as much time as you need to write this story.

wdt92 · June 16, 2016

Excited for Starrcade!

deanohbk · June 17, 2016

Can't wait for Starrcade....its going to be AWESOME!!!!!!

Anderz · June 27, 2016

In pre-show matches; Butch Reed & 2 Cold Scorpio defeated Stan Lane & Eddie Gilbert in 8:07 (53); Sgt. Slaughter, Bam Bam Bigelow, Dynamite Kid, Wahoo McDaniel & Brian Blair defeated North-South Connection, Big Boss Man, Kevin Sullivan & Bill Dundee in 8:50 (68); The Skyscrapers defeated Bob Orton Jr. & Don Muraco in 8:20 (69).

https://www.youtube.com/embed/gPCDIRPdn08" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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NWA Starrcade 1989

December 29th, 1989

From the Metrodome – Minneapolis, MN

Attendance: 39,705

Announce Team: Jim Ross, Tony Schiavone & Nick Bockwinkel

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The NWA has saved the biggest and best event for the last pay-per-view of the 1980's - as Starrcade kicks off with a huge pyrotechnics display and a video package detailing the storied history the four men in our massive main events. We cover the history of the Four Horsemen, from inception to Arn and Tully leaving through to their return and hostile takeover of the group from Ric Flair. We see Ricky Steamboat return home to the NWA and wrestle the World title away from Blanchard; the Nature Boy's redemption tour and return to greatness as AWA Champion - followed by the recent great run of form for Anderson, now considered amongst the elite. All roads lead to Starrcade - and tonight, four men will enter but only one shall leave as the NWA/AWA Unified World Heavyweight Champion.

Grade: 92 (A)

Ladder Match for the NWA World Cruiserweight Championship
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Hector Guerrero © vs. Eddie Guerrero
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We kick things off with the Cruiserweight Championship hanging high above the ring as two brothers are set to go to war once again. Hector, the elder, was reluctant to face his brother at first but after younger brother Eddie showed his true colours over recent months - the family died has intensified. Eddie began with an intensity we have never seen before - a determination to reclaim his title; but it was matched by Hector - who was looking to defend the good name of the Guerrero family.
The battle was hard fought with a great mix of stiff shots and high flying moves - but things escalated quickly once the ladder was introduced. Whilst the ladder was there to allow the combatants access to the title it was no surprise that it was used as an offensive weapon - with Eddie landing the first shot as he used the ladder to clothesline Hector out of the ring.
Both brothers showed their skill and lack of fear as they used whatever opportunities they could to climb the ladder and reach for the gold; but neither man could incapacitate the other for long enough to unhook the title. That was until Hector had Eddie down and climbed the ladder; but he took the ill advised decision to not reach for the gold once he got to the top of the ladder. Instead, Hector looked to ensure his victory further with a final risk - he leapt from the ladder and looked for the Frog Splash. But Eddie was wise to his brother, moved out of the way and sent Hector crashing into the canvas. Eddie had been playing possum; he grabbed the fallen Hector and launched him from the ring - allowing a trouble free ascent up the ladder to reclaim the Cruiserweight title.

Winner and New NWA World Cruiserweight Champion: Eddie Guerrero in 11:27
Grade: 62 ©

We went backstage to hear from a fired up American Dream - Dusty Rhodes. The Dream talked about the history of the NWA and how tonight was a huge night for the alliance and for pro wrestling; he talked about the history of Starrcade and how tonight was a huge night for Jim Crockett Promotions; and then he talked about the history between Dusty Rhodes and the Funk family and how tonight was a huge night for the American Dream. Terry Funk is a crazy old bastard, and tonight Dusty Rhodes will take him out behind the woodshed and put him down like the yellow, egg-sucking dog that he is. Dusty is fighting for himself, for his family, for Jim Crockett, for the NWA, for pro wrestling baby!

Grade: 100 (A*)

NWA United States Tag Team Championship Match
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Harlem Heat © (Booker T & Stevie Ray w/ Teddy Long) vs. Dustin Rhodes & Kendall Windham
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The latest addition to the Starrcade lineup was only announced last night; but there was still a lot of history going into this one as Harlem Heat had defeated Rhodes and Windham at Fall Brawl for the vacant US Tag titles. Dustin looked fired up after hearing his father speak moments ago, but they simply aided the Heat's game plan as they looked to isolate Windham and double team him. Dustin had spells of great impact and looked dangerous whenever he got the opportunity - but Windham suffered from the Heat's combined efforts as Teddy Long led them to victory; the Heat Seeker downing Kendall for the three.

Winners and Still NWA United States Tag Team Champions: Harlem Heat in 7:35
Grade: 49 (D+)

NWA World Television Championship Match
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Jushin “Thunder” Liger © vs. Ron Simmons (w/ Mr. T)
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Our third title match of the evening saw another member of the Enemy in action as Ron Simmons looked to do what Butch Reed couldn't and take away the TV title from the Japanese sensation. As we've come to expect, Mr. T was very vocal at ringside and this support seemed to spur Simmons on - with Ron looking to take full advantage of the opportunity afforded to him.
It was a definite cat and mouse match; with Simmons chasing Liger for long periods - getting caught by a high flying attack but also doing damage whenever he managed to catch the Champion. We were heading for a stalemate until Liger began to hit his moves more often - but as he climbed to the top turnbuckle for his Shooting Star Press things took a u-turn. Mr. T leapt to the apron and engaged in a shouting match with the referee - but this was just a cover for Butch Reed to rush down to ringside and launch Liger from the top rope, crashing into the canvas. Simmons slowly stirred - but took full advantage; as a Spinebuster to the Champion was enough for the Enemy to steal the TV title.

Winner and New NWA World Television Champion: Ron Simmons in 9:33
Grade: 65 ©

Backstage, the NWA World Champion - Ricky Steamboat - was standing by with his pre-match comments ahead of tonight's Unification series. Steamboat discussed his successful return home to the NWA and how he felt such great pride in being the NWA Champion - but that pride would be overwhelmed by the feeling he was hoping to get by the end of the night as he would be honoured to be the first Unified World Heavyweight Champion in decades. The Dragon knew the stakes tonight, and had confidence in his own ability - which is why he was confident that given a level playing field, he would leave as the single Champion of the World.

Grade: 94 (A)

“Made in the U.S.A.” Scott Steiner vs. Honky Tonk Man
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This was the third time in the last two months that Steiner and Honky had gone to battle; but perhaps the most important match for Honky as he was in desperate need of a victory to show he was still at the top of his game. Steiner had solidified his reputation win, lose or draw - but that didn't slow the All-American powerhouse down one bit.
Much like the last two encounters, Steiner brought the fight and swung for the fences from the off. Honky tried to use this aggression in his favour but Steiner was relentless. Even the typical underhand tactics from the former World Champion failed to make a dent in the freight train that was Scott Steiner. A series of Steinerlines and suplex's were the perfect setup for a Frankensteiner and another victory for the big man from Michigan.

Winner: Scott Steiner in 10:50
Grade: 79 (B)

Terry “Bam Bam” Gordy (w/ Andre the Giant) vs. Michael “P.S.” Hayes (w/ Diamond Dallas Page)
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Gordy may have been dumped by his long time friends, but he fell on his feet when he found an ally in the Eighth Wonder of the World. Andre's presence at ringside was enough to spook DDP into behaving all match - and left Hayes and Gordy to slug it out in a fair fight.
Hayes tried to use verbal manipulation over his former best friend - clearly still having a mental hold over Bam Bam. When the fists started flying, there was only likely to be one winner - but plenty of credit should be due to Hayes who survived much longer than many thought. A Gordy Powerbomb was enough to leave Hayes down and out for the three - and DDP made no moves to break up the pinfall as Andre stared a hole through him across the ring.

Winner: Terry Gordy in 10:42
Grade: 81 (B)

The Freebirds retreated with their tails firmly tucked between their legs; allowing Andre and his new ally to celebrate in the ring on the grandest stage. This alliance was born out of the old proverb "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" and it was a strong alliance; with Andre striking fear into any men - and Gordy being unafraid of going to war whenever needed.

Grade: 95 (A*)

NWA United States Heavyweight Championship Match
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The Warrior © vs. Barry Windham (w/ Ole Anderson)
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With the rest of the Horsemen in contention for the Unified World title later tonight, Windham had the opportunity to start the night off in impressive fashion for the group by taking the US Title. But the Warrior had other plans - starting things out with his usual run around the arena and ring, pumping the fans up into a frenzy. Windham was very much in enemy territory as the bell sounding was drowned out by Warrior chants.
The veteran Horsemen was accustomed to fighting against the fan favourite and blocked out the boos as he cheapshotted the Champion from behind to gain the early advantage. Windham mixed in his dangerous strikes with solid wrestling - and for many minutes looked a certainty to leave with the title. But after every high impact move, the Warrior would power out of any pinfall attempts and look to make a comeback.
The first time that Windham didn't stamp out the comeback straight away proved to be costly - as the Warrior began to build and build his momentum. Clotheslines were followed by rope shakes; and that soon escalated into body slams and before Windham knew what had hit him hew as crashing to the canvas thanks to a Gorilla Press Slam. Warrior hit the ropes and landed his devastating Running Splash, quickly hooked he leg - and somehow Windham had clinched defeat from the jaws of victory and the Warrior retained.

Winner and Still NWA United States Heavyweight Champion: The Warrior in 11:50
Grade: 75 (B-)

Texas Death Match
“The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes vs. Terry Funk
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/DustyRhodes87_zpscfdbde99.jpg vs. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Terry%20Funk%208_zpsps52pmkx.jpg

On any other night of any year, this match would've been the clear main event - with decades of history and family feuds; this war has instant classic written all over it. Knowing the two men involved, you would have expected this match to start with a wild brawl - but Funk took the interesting tactic to try and frustrate Rhodes by refusing to engage early on. The American Dream unfortunately fell for it, and got hot-headed - allowing Funk to get the early advantage.
Funk began to tear apart the ringside area, using anything that wasn't bolted to the floor as a weapon and within minutes Dusty was bleeding profusely. Funk used a steel chair to inflict most of the damage - going as far as to drop Rhodes with a Piledriver onto the chair to score the first three count of the match. The Dream showed his resilience however, and was back to his feet before the referee had reached a count of eight.
Funk became frustrated - having thrown, literally, everything at Dusty but being unable to win the match. The Dream came back, and gave Funk a taste of his own medicine - several chair shots were followed by Rhodes using the ring bell to cover Funk in a crimson mask. Dusty found a cow bell under the ring and used it to great effect - combining the bell with his Bionic Elbow to put Funk down for the three count.
Despite Dusty and everyone in attendance willing the referee to administer a slightly quick count, Funk groggily rose to his feet at nine and the match went on. Dusty continued the assault, but Funk's retaliations verged on barbaric - as he began to bite and gnaw away at the cut on Dusty's forehead. With both men already covered in blood; Funk introduced barbed wire to the match. He wrapped his own arm up and began to grate away at the Dream's forehead and eyes - with Dusty crying out in agony.
Rhodes may have had impaired vision and have taken a beating but he continued on - stopping Funk in his tracks as he mounted the top turnbuckle. The pair swung wildly - teetering on the edge; until Dusty sacrificed himself and both men plummeted outside the ring, crashing through the announcers table. Both men's bodies were intertwined as the referee inspected the situation before counting a double pinfall.
Neither man made a move as the referee began his ten count. As we reached five, Rhodes had begun to stir - but by six Funk had done the same. Dusty was close to pulling himself up at eight - but Funk grabbed a shard of broken table and dug into the open wound on the Dream's forehead. Dusty slumped back into the wreckage at nine - leaving Funk to just about break the ten count as he used the apron to steady himself. The bell sounded, Funk had barely survived.

Winner: Terry Funk in 18:38
Grade: 80 (B)

Backstage in the Four Horsemen locker room m, there was a certain level of tension. Blanchard was overconfident - informing the world that if it came down to it, he knew the 'right man' would win. Arn seemed disenfranchised with the Horsemen, he told Tully that the best man would win if it came down to it - but to not look past either Steamboat or Flair. Tully told Arn that a unit like the Horsemen was only as strong as its weakest link - and weak thoughts like that could ruin everything; he knew that the next World Champion was stood in that room but he wasn't convinced that every man was still had the Horsemen heart. Arn told Tully that the Horsemen were a family at its core; that family was the Anderson family - if Tully saw himself as bigger than that family then fate would decide his outcome. The pair both walked away, with the announcers commenting that this dissension was no good for either man's chances later tonight.

Grade: 90 (A)

NWA World Tag Team Championship Match
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“The Living Legend” Larry Zbyszko & “Ravishing” Rick Rude © (w/ Missy Hyatt) vs. Totally Fantastic (Lex Luger & Terry Taylor w/ James J. Dillon)
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Missy%20Hyatt%2087_zpsvw9dmizf.jpghttp://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/LarryZbyszko87_zpsc91b538d.jpghttp://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Rick%20Rude%2089_zps0tfipp9k.jpg vs. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Lex%20Luger%2089_zpsoiohfs23.jpghttp://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Terry%20Taylor%205_zpsfojgchfy.jpghttp://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/JJDillon88_zpsfcb5faca.jpg

The final match that doesn't include a World Heavyweight title tonight saw the overtly confident Champions look to defend against the former Champions - with the winners destined to fight the Skyscrapers later down the line. Taylor and Luger started the match hot and kept sending the Champions down and back out to the floor several times - having a clear edge before the referee got a hold on the contest.
Rude and Zbyszko came to the fore as they isolated the smaller man in Mr. Fantastic - using sound tag team wrestling, along with every trick in the book to keep Taylor away from his partner. Liger was getting worked up on the apron, but was powerless to stop an effective beat down on his partner - only able to break up the pinfall whenever he could.
The Champions were in their element - but their cockiness would soon bite them. The pair spent too long bragging about how they were going to finish Taylor off and failed to realise that Terry had crawled to within a fingertip of Lex - only for Missy Hyatt to save the day by grabbing Luger's foot and diverting his attention. It was a close call, but it seemed to reinvigorate Taylor - he ducked out of the way of a Rude clothesline and sent Rude crashing into the corner.
Taylor took full advantage and made a huge tag to Luger; whilst Rude did the same. Zbyszko met the powerful right hand as he entered the ring - and Luger was like a man possessed as he tore through the Champions. Rude was sent flying out of the ring before Larry was lifted into the Human Torture Rack - Larry was forced to submit before his back was broken and we had new Champions!

Winners and New NWA World Tag Team Champions: Totally Fantastic in 16:34
Grade: 78 (B)

..... STILL TO COME .....

NWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat © vs. Tully Blanchard

AWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

"Nature Boy" Ric Flair © vs. "The Enforcer" Arn Anderson

Unified NWA/AWA World Heavyweight Championship Match

Ricky Steamboat / Tully Blanchard vs. Ric Flair / Arn Anderson

K-Nection · June 30, 2016

You made Starcade 2 parts.....your evil!!!

Dawn · June 30, 2016

It seems like part 2 is taking forever to come up...please, more!

Anderz · June 30, 2016

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NWA World Heavyweight Championship Match
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/nwaworld_zpsb9238e81.jpg
Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat © vs. Tully Blanchard (w/ Ole Anderson)
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Ricky%20Steamboat%203_zpsfy99nx8r.jpgvs. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Tully%20Blanchard%2089_zps5mrgc9ww.jpg

All the hype had led to this; there was no more time for talking - everything would be settled in the ring. The first two competitors to go to war over the Unified World title were no strangers to each other - as NWA Champion Ricky Steamboat looked to defend against long term rival Tully Blanchard of the Four Horsemen. The Dragon had certainly had Tully's number throughout his return to the NWA - capturing the World title from Blanchard in May and holding onto it over a three series classic. But none of that mattered tonight - because tonight was different; tonight was Starrcade.
The opening minutes were a cagey affair; both men knew exactly what the other would try to do to get the early advantage - Steamboat brought the pace, whilst Blanchard looked for a shortcut. The match went to form as far as the expected game plans were concerned - Tully looked to nullify the speed disadvantage and Steamboat kept Blanchard in check.
The first real moment came as Blanchard and Anderson were regrouping on the outside after a Steamboat flurry - but the Dragon had run out of patience and launched himself clean over the top rope, taking both men out on the outside to a huge eruption from the fans.
Steamboat tool Blanchard back into the ring and continued to build momentum - he mixed his expert technical offence with an array of dives from the middle and top ropes scoring several near falls. As Tully repeatedly had to kick out at two he realised that he would have to fight fire with fire and got back into the match after reversing a suplex into one of his own.
Tully worked away at the legs of the Dragon, trying to ground him and remove at least one element of his attack. But Steamboat refused to stay down - not even an expertly executed Slingshot Suplex could do the job as the Dragon got the shoulder up within a split second of the three.
Frustration seemed to be getting the better of Blanchard, but Ole stayed calm at ringside - even when Steamboat regained control. As the Dragon went up to the top rope; Ole made his move onto the apron. The referee was pulled out of position to deal with Ole; giving Barry Windham the perfect opportunity to interfere. Windham clobbered Steamboat from behind - before planting him with a huge Superplex from the top rope.
Tully regained his footing as the announcers screamed in protest that Windham had ruined potentially the greatest match of the year, if not the decade. But Blanchard was not bothered in the slightest; he dragged the limp body of the Dragon up - only to drill him into the canvas with a Piledriver; the three count was academic and the Four Horsemen had once again stolen the NWA World title!

Winner and New NWA World Heavyweight Champion: Tully Blanchard in 21:25
Grade: 100 (A*)

We join the AWA World Champion backstage, and Ric Flair is fired up. He talks directly to his long term friend and rival Arn Anderson ahead of their imminent clash. The Nature Boy knows that Arn beat him back in April, and he knows that Double A has only gotten better since then - but so has Ric Flair. When they last wrestled, the loss took Flair out of the World title picture - but He has reevaluated a lot of things I've the last eight months and this Ric Flair is much better, much more like the old Ric Flair. The Nature Boy is the epitome of the NWA, and in order for Arn to fulfil his promise and become the man, he must beat the man - and there is no doubt in anybody's mind right that Ric Flair is the man.

Grade: 95 (A*)

Back in the Four Horsemen locker room the brand new NWA World Champion Tully Blanchard is celebrating his victory with Ole Anderson and the man who played a big role in that win - Barry Windham. The three men are proud of the hatchet job they pulled on Ricky Steamboat - with Tully confident that together, the Horsemen will ride again and Blanchard will be the Unified World Champion. But Harley Race arrives with a spanner to throw in the works; Race is disgusted by the actions of the Horsemen and if he could strip Tully of the title and nullify his victory he would do - but he can't, the referee's decision is final. But Race can do one thing to ensure the same thing doesn't happen later tonight - Barry Windham is barred from ringside for both remaining matches; if he so much as pokes his head out from behind the curtain he will be fired! Race leaves with the Horsemen fuming at the decision; Tully having much less confidence than he did just minutes earlier.

Grade: 82 (B)

AWA World Heavyweight Championship Match
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/awaworld_zpsa9d7c292.jpg
“Nature Boy” Ric Flair © vs. “The Enforcer” Arn Anderson
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/RicFlair89_zpsd6e041c0.jpg vs. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/ArnAnderson89_zpsa5f467c4.jpg

Ric Flair and Arn Anderson have a well documented history; from best friends to bitter enemies - through the Four Horsemen, the NWA and AWA World titles but all of that have came to a head tonight. They met one-on-one in April at the Crockett Cup with Anderson leaving the victor and ruining Flair's redemption story. Whilst Flair claims to be a different man tonight; so does Anderson - and you can guarantee that no masked man would be interfering in this one.
We went straight into the action; and despite both men's technical ability - it was a wild slugfest that started the bout. Flair and Anderson throwing everything but the kitchen sink at one another in order to get the early advantage. It was the Enforcer who broke ranks first; ducking under a Flair haymaker and landings double leg takedown - he quickly transition into a single leg crab, but the Nature Boy was equally as fast to the ropes to break the hold.
Double A was taking the "defence is the best offence" approach as he began to target the legs of Flair - attempting to nullify the effectiveness of the Figure Four. To his credit, Flair refused to stay on the proverbial back foot for long - living up to his "Dirtiest Player in the Game" moniker and using an eye poke to turn the tide.
With Flair in control it was like watching a mad man - the Nature Boy constantly on the move, trying out everything he had. From suplex's to chop blocks, arm drags, right hands, left hands, kicks to the shin - Flair was hitting Arn from every angle. Eventually, Flair settled on an approach - and that was targeting the legs himself - setting up for his trusty Figure Four.
Anderson was quick to the ropes, forcing the break - but it was clear from their slow rise back to their feet that both men were suffering from injured legs, the war taking its toll. Flair remained in control, hitting Double A across the chest with stinging knife edge chops that drew blisters and blood. But Anderson was still in the fight; fighting back with short, sharp right hands out of the corner.
We cruised past the twenty minute mark and then past the mark set by Steamboat and Blanchard earlier on. But Flair was to make a crucial error; just like back in April - he went to use Arn's patented Spinebuster against him - but with weak legs he couldn't power Double A up. Arn broke free with elbows to the neck; changed his grip and in one swift movement had Flair up, over and slammed into the mat with a monumental Spinebuster! Arn used his last bit of energy to hook both legs as he made the cover; One! Two! Three!!!

Winner and New AWA World Heavyweight Champion: Arn Anderson in 23:25
Grade: 97 (A)

The bell sounds and the realisation spreads across Arn's face - he's done it! Not only has he defeated Ric Flair for the second time in 1989 - he has become a World Champion! Flair slowly gets back to his feet as Double A rests on his knees soaking in the crowds cheers - the Nature Boy takes the AWA World title from the referee and looks at it with a tear in his eye. Anderson gets up to his feet and the two men exchange a look before Flair hands his old friend the World title and the two embrace! Anderson and Flair have put the last year behind them and celebrate the Enforcer's ascension with a hug; before the Nature Boy raises Anderson's arm aloft in victory. But the night is still young, and he sound of hooves fills the arena - signalling the arrival of a less than impressed Tully Blanchard. Fasten your seat belts folks!

Grade: 95 (A*)

Unified NWA/AWA World Heavyweight Championship Match
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/nwaworld_zpsb9238e81.jpghttp://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/awaworld_zpsa9d7c292.jpg
Tully Blanchard (NWA Champion) vs. “The Enforcer” Arn Anderson (AWA Champion)
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/Tully%20Blanchard%2089_zps5mrgc9ww.jpg vs. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i304/Anderz_Baz/JCP/ArnAnderson89_zpsa5f467c4.jpg

The expression on the faces of both men as the introductions were made told the whole story; Anderson was on the crest of a wave of momentum and Blanchard was furious that his supposed best friend had just embraced his arch nemesis. At the bell, Tully got straight into Arn's face - if there was any doubt about the status of the Four Horsemen before tonight it was gone in one act. Tully raised four fingers high - but they were quickly slapped down by Double A , the symbolic four fingers were no longer Blanchard's to raise.
Blanchard was fuming and swing for the fences immediately; but the Enforcer kept a cooler head causing Tully to miss repeatedly - Arn connected with a short right hand and Tully retreated to the floor. There was no Ole Anderson at ringside to help either man - so it was left to Blanchard to collect his own thoughts and reassess.
The occasion seemed to help Tully refocus and he was a different man on his return through the ropes; engaging Anderson with a very technical catch-as-catch-can style offence that was highly effective. Blanchard broke out several holds and throws and put the Enforcer on the back - even a simple Hammerlock can change a match when applied properly.
The battle wore on with the slightly fresher Blanchard being half a step ahead and controlling the technical exchanges. The throws became more hard hitting with Tully getting a number of near falls and as we reached the fifteen minute mark there was a clear favourite.
But the resiliency of Anderson was on display, and after forty minutes of punishment the Enforcer refused to back down. Blanchard was relentless and wouldn't ease up for a second; and when he set up for the Piledriver the writing was on the wall. But Double A blocked it; and with a sudden burst, he had Tully up and over with the Spinebuster. Just like he had done to Flair earlier, Anderson made the cover - One! Two! NO! Blanchard kicked out a fraction before the three.
The rest period had made all the difference; Anderson had spent his last energy but Blanchard was able to get back to his feet first. The boots came raining in; gone had the technical wrestling - this was a desperate fight. Once again, Blanchard was in position for the Piledriver - but once again Double A had a counter; this time a simple back drop sent Tully crashing onto the mat.
Anderson was slow to make the cover - and it told as Blanchard kicked out again. Both men got back to their feet, and Arn tried to quickly grab a DDT - but Tully match him, blocked the move and followed with a swift kick to the leg. Blanchard kept a hold of the front chancery and used it to lift Double A up; he bounced him across the top rope - but Arn landed back on his feet; countering the Slingshot Suplex and planting Tully with a Gourdbuster. Again, the cover was slow and again Tully kicked out.
The two warriors had thrown everything st each other and everything was met with some sort of counter. Tully was now resorting to shortcuts - an eye poke gave him the advantage. A scoop slam was followed by four swift elbow drops to the chest and another cover; but Double A refused to stay down. An angry Blanchard screamed in Arn's face for him to just give it up; Blanchard dragged Arn up and this time the Piledriver was executed without a counter - Arn had been drilled head first.
Tully made the cover; One! Two! Thr- NO! We were a fingertip away from crowning Blanchard as the new Unified Champion but Double A still, somehow, had life left in him. Tully couldn't help himself, the frustration had bubbled over - he grabbed the referee by the collar and berated him. This was the opening that the Enforcer needed. The official had managed to calm Tully down and pull himself free but Anderson was lying in wait.
The unsuspecting Blanchard turned straight into Double A - who grabbed his former best friend; lifted him high, spun on the spot - and droveTully almost through the ring with perhaps the biggest Spinebuster ever. Arn hooked both legs and the crowd stood as one, counting along - ONE! TWO! THREE!! ANDERSON HAD DONE IT!

Winner and New Unified NWA/AWA World Heavyweight Champion: Arn Anderson in 26:53
Grade: 86 (B+)

The emotion shown just half an hour ago is dwarfed as the bell sounds and Arn Anderson is announced as the first ever Unified World Heavyweight Champion. From never having won a World title to two in a single night; the Enforcer is spent - holding himself up across the top rope with a title belt in each hand as Tully is helped to the back by officials. The ring belongs to Double A; the moment belongs to Double A - will the 1990's belong to Double A? We head into a new decade and a new era of the NWA with a single World Champion - a man who has the respect of both his peers and the fans - it truly is the start of something special for the National Wrestling Alliance.

Grade: 100 (A*)

Overall Show Grade: 95 (A*)

Beejus · June 30, 2016

Yes! My gawds, I love it!

The show was entirely worth all of the wait, Anderz. You definitely knocked Starrcade out of the park. Straight from the new champion at the start of the show until the new champion at the end.

smartman · July 1, 2016

Oh the thing that your partner wouldn't do in giving Piper the title, you gave it to two of my other favorite wrestlers of my childhood in Steamboat (yes, he gave the WWF title to him too then gave up on him) and now Arn. What an amazing way to close out the 80's! He was always pigeonholed into being just the sidekick, mainly to Flair but also Tully. Not to mention that giving the person that actually needs the belt instead of any of the ones that everyone knows whether they have the belt or not is a good idea (see Chris Jericho). Just a shame that the show didn't hit a 99. Oh the problems of booking the finals right after the semis as I'm sure both were listed as tired.

Hashasheen · July 1, 2016

Goodness gracious, Arn Anderson is the MAN!

I had a thought you were gonna go rogue with Anderson after recent episodes, but there was a part of me that figured Flair had to be the guy to close out the decade. Shocking stuff, Anderz, just shocking.

KnowYourEnemy · July 1, 2016

I've been cheering for this outcome for a while, and now that it has come through, it clearly worked out well. Arn was being built like a champion, and deserved the title here.

Would Flair-Steamboat draw significantly more with the belt? Or is it already such a classic match that it doesn't really need the belt to stay on top? I'll go with the latter. Steamer-Flair will tear the house down on any time with a good build -- the two are natural, over opponents with a storied history.

Looking forward to Windham-Arn build -- his match with Steamer should be great. Will be interesting to see where you go from here.

K-Nection · July 2, 2016

That was brilliant! I never thought Arn could shine like that and you proved me wrong! Another note is how about that Tully and Steamboat match!!!

Anderz · July 9, 2016

As you will have no doubt read over in the WWF TGAAB thread, this is the end for the Race to the Top. This is due to a number of reasons, principally - I want to buy TEW16 and have all the shiny new features, but I can't do that if I'm still doing this. Second to that; Starrcade is a perfect close to this chapter - if I were to continue I'd have to go at least another year to tell the story properly - stopping in three months wouldn't have felt right. And the straw that broke the camel's back and stopped me from even trying to go for another year was that the Anderson vs Blanchard main event at Starrcade got dinged heavily by the pass/fail psychology issue that was discussed a few months ago quite heavily over in TFCland. If my hot new main event program is going to cap out at 86 when they're both capable over 95+ then it takes my heart out of it. I plan to do a wrap up of 1989 - listing best matches, shows and workers for JCP and then once TFC has reached his conclusion at WrestleMania I'll look to do a "these were my plans for 1990 and beyond" post as I don't want to indirectly spoil anything going on over there. Onto some responses to comments: <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Beejus" data-cite="Beejus" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Yes! My gawds, I love it! The show was entirely worth all of the wait, Anderz. You definitely knocked Starrcade out of the park. Straight from the new champion at the start of the show until the new champion at the end.</div></blockquote> Thanks for the kind words Beej; glad it was worth the wait. It's just a shame that the two of the four matches that I really put a lot of effort into didn't get the ratings I felt they deserved (Funk/Dusty and Arn/Tully) but the story of the rise of Arn is still something I'm proud of. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="smartman" data-cite="smartman" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Oh the thing that your partner wouldn't do in giving Piper the title, you gave it to two of my other favorite wrestlers of my childhood in Steamboat (yes, he gave the WWF title to him too then gave up on him) and now Arn. What an amazing way to close out the 80's! He was always pigeonholed into being just the sidekick, mainly to Flair but also Tully. Not to mention that giving the person that actually needs the belt instead of any of the ones that everyone knows whether they have the belt or not is a good idea (see Chris Jericho). Just a shame that the show didn't hit a 99. Oh the problems of booking the finals right after the semis as I'm sure both were listed as tired.</div></blockquote> If only the problem was fatigue! Very proud of Arn's rise and glad that it resonates well. Steamboat and Flair don't really need the title any more (same cane really be said for Tully at this stage) but Arn is now in that class above with them. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Hashasheen" data-cite="Hashasheen" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Goodness gracious, Arn Anderson is the MAN! I had a thought you were gonna go rogue with Anderson after recent episodes, but there was a part of me that figured Flair had to be the guy to close out the decade. Shocking stuff, Anderz, just shocking.</div></blockquote> Flair was the man of the eighties that's for sure; but this was the start of a new decade! I thought I might have been telegraphing the Arn victory too strongly over the last few months. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="KnowYourEnemy" data-cite="KnowYourEnemy" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I've been cheering for this outcome for a while, and now that it has come through, it clearly worked out well. Arn was being built like a champion, and deserved the title here. Would Flair-Steamboat draw significantly more with the belt? Or is it already such a classic match that it doesn't really need the belt to stay on top? I'll go with the latter. Steamer-Flair will tear the house down on any time with a good build -- the two are natural, over opponents with a storied history. Looking forward to Windham-Arn build -- his match with Steamer should be great. Will be interesting to see where you go from here.</div></blockquote> My next project would probably have been to build Windham up into this top group as well. No doubt a Windham vs Steamboat feud would follow this show after Barry cost Steamer the gold. Glad you enjoyed Arn's big win! <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="K-Nection" data-cite="K-Nection" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>That was brilliant! I never thought Arn could shine like that and you proved me wrong! Another note is how about that Tully and Steamboat match!!!</div></blockquote> Tully and Steamboat certainly stole the show as far as pure ratings - and that was even including the Windham interference! Blew all of their previous matches out of the water and stole MOTY from the WWF! Couldn't have predicted that before the show. Thank you everyone for the comments; please feel to post and ask questions or discuss anything if you want to and I'll respond as quickly as I can. As I said I'll have a couple of wrap up posts whilst TFC winds up the TGAAB story. My next project you ask? Well I've got one in mind - but I need to actually buy TEW16 first. It probably won't be making an appearance for another month or so but I'll be back with a project I think should be really fun.

Beejus · July 9, 2016

As much as I'm a little sad to see this go, it's getting time for us "13 players" to make the jump. In many ways, both you and Ritchardo were playing "The Ballad of the Four Horsemen", and the game ending here with Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard splintering the group is in many ways the perfect end. The way the game went, this was the logical conclusion all along.

I can't wait to see what you bring us next time! <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/smile.png.142cfa0a1cd2925c0463c1d00f499df2.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

smartman · July 9, 2016

Oof, I can't believe one of those two didn't have 85 psych, especially since it had been going on for a few years. I fully understand ending it at Starrcade. Just like WM is the logical end for WWF, so is Starrcade for JCP. Look forward to both of you guys writing TEW16 dynasties.

The Final Countdown · July 9, 2016

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Anderz" data-cite="Anderz" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div> My next project you ask? Well I've got one in mind - but I need to actually buy TEW16 first. It probably won't be making an appearance for another month or so but I'll be back with a project I think should be really fun.</div></blockquote> Thrilled to hear this, and can't wait to see what you have in store next. I was a fan of your work long before you joined TGAAB, and I'm sure I'll enjoy whatever you bring us in the future. Depending on when Beejus wraps up War of the Thrones and begins his next project, as well as when the Summer of Punk mod is released, I may be the last straggler to make my way over to the new forum. Hopefully I won't be a forgotten man by then! <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> I could probably write several paragraphs thanking you for your contributions to this game world, but somehow it seems more appropriate to hold off until after I get through Mania and am ready to close the book on this work. For now, I'll just say thanks for not only enriching this game universe, but providing a great dynasty all on its own. Oh, and Starrcade was awesome! I cheated and read the results beforehand, but knowing Anderson was going to win didn't diminish my enjoyment of the show at all. That was a really fitting way to wrap up the story in JCP. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="smartman" data-cite="smartman" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Oof, I can't believe one of those two didn't have 85 psych, especially since it had been going on for a few years. I fully understand ending it at Starrcade. Just like WM is the logical end for WWF, so is Starrcade for JCP. Look forward to both of you guys writing TEW16 dynasties.</div></blockquote> Arn's at 83, Tully at 82. Just further enforces the flaws of the way psychology is handled, when Arn's rating being two points higher probably would have improved the match score by ten points or more. I'm assuming nothing has been changed with this system in TEW2016, which worries me.

smartman · July 10, 2016

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="The Final Countdown" data-cite="The Final Countdown" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Arn's at 83, Tully at 82. Just further enforces the flaws of the way psychology is handled, when Arn's rating being two points higher probably would have improved the match score by ten points or more. I'm assuming nothing has been changed with this system in TEW2016, which worries me.</div></blockquote> Yeah, you can say that. I'm playing the alt mod of TGA in 16 which has Magnum alive and as World Champ. He faced Arn on my 2nd Big Event and got slaughtered for both lack of Psych (Magnum 74/Arn 77) and Selling (Arn has 77 or 78 with Magnum slightly below that). It got an 86 only because of their great chemistry which gets added in after the hatchet is done slaughtering the score. So an 83 (only the top score matters) would make me want to quit the game too.

K-Nection · July 11, 2016

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="smartman" data-cite="smartman" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Yeah, you can say that. I'm playing the alt mod of TGA in 16 which has Magnum alive and as World Champ. He faced Arn on my 2nd Big Event and got slaughtered for both lack of Psych (Magnum 74/Arn 77) and Selling (Arn has 77 or 78 with Magnum slightly below that). It got an 86 only because of their great chemistry which gets added in after the hatchet is done slaughtering the score. So an 83 (only the top score matters) would make me want to quit the game too.</div></blockquote> 16 has brutal psych ratings and even now when a wrestler hits a certain level (I believe its 70 but I could be hugely mistaken) they can only increase when they are in the ring with someone who has higher or the road agent that is doing the match is higher than said wrestler. So now wrestlers have to be against the top performers in the world to show their true caps and you can't find out by keeping them in development....but the other shiny features would make the E be really interesting. Anderz I'm sad to see you go but this was really a fantastic swan song for you! I hope you are enjoying 16 as much as I am.

BHK6 · July 12, 2016

Sorry to see you put this diary down. I knew really followed anything out of WWF as a child so new nothing about half of your roster. I remember Tully as a Brainbuster not a Four Horseman. I enjoyed learning more about this era. Your build up of Arn was legendary. Too bad about that bad psych score because the Tully/Arn story line would have been gold.

It was one of my favourite reads, next to TGAAB, you were the "minor leagues" after all. <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> The little shots that you guys took at each other heading me laughing and people looking at me. LOL literally.

Can't wait to see what you had in store for 1990. Just who do the Horseman war explode? Where does Flair and Steamboat do next? Who else you pick up from the WWF? And when to the Steiner Brothers win the tag team titles?

smartman · July 13, 2016

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="K-Nection" data-cite="K-Nection" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="38832" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>16 has brutal psych ratings and even now when a wrestler hits a certain level (I believe its 70 but I could be hugely mistaken) they can only increase when they are in the ring with someone who has higher or the road agent that is doing the match is higher than said wrestler. So now wrestlers have to be against the top performers in the world to show their true caps and you can't find out by keeping them in development....but the other shiny features would make the E be really interesting. Anderz I'm sad to see you go but this was really a fantastic swan song for you! I hope you are enjoying 16 as much as I am.</div></blockquote> I've actually seen some of the best stat growth in TEW history without having to do that, but that's only with young guys. I have seen people say what you're saying though. Now, if only the mod makers would actually understand and accept that because having only a few guys that can main event is really not good. Giving deserving people 84+ psych doesn't break the mod. I do hope you enjoy 16 Anderz. You might want to pick a mod that doesn't have a bunch of jerks though because oh boy can that make your game go sideways in a hurry. Just to ease into all the changes.

tg01 · August 13, 2016

I just wanted to add a message of gratitude for your work on this Dynasty Anderz....it has taken me about a year to read through everything, well almost everything still not 100% caught up with the WWF, but it was an amazing ride along the way. As it was getting closer to the end and I saw that Countdown was ending at WM VI I was sort of hoping that Starrcade would be the end for you as it just seemed so natural a place to end. Wish you all the best with your new project and in life!

BlueStar · September 8, 2016

Great, Great, GREAT read!!

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