WCW: Heart and Soul

K-Nection · January 17, 2017

That would be a terrible idea. It would be incredibly easy to "botch" a ladder spot. It wouldn't necessarily be a "Superfly Effect" spot, but it could easily be very bad for Shane.

So I'm guessing the Matt/Lita relationship got left out for some reason? I was under the impression that they were already dating by this point? Weird that the Mod Squad would miss that.

Have you seen any of Shane's matches from this time period?....he is the king of dangerous spots. That is literally his thing is he either jumps off something high or gets put through something brutal. The man has been put through glass and fallen of the titantron. That elbow drop through the announce table spot was made famous by Shane McMahon. Shane is not a full time worker so he could always do the most craziest stuff because he never has to worry about going to work the next day.

I think the relationship they are talking about is Shane is supposed to be married to a character that is not in the game world.

GingeyOne · January 17, 2017

Fan Scorecard:

World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©}

Ultimate Fan Series Finals Tiebreaker: #1 Satyr's Hopeful Few (Kanyon, "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, Buff Bagwell and Chavo Guerrerp Jr. vs. #2 The K-Nections (Booker T, Sting, AJ Styles and Alex Wright)

World Tag Team Championship: Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. The Natural Born Thrillers {©}

Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Knoble vs. Jushin Thunder Liger {©}

Rob Van Dam vs. Mike Awesome

Rey Misterio Jr. vs. "The Total Package" Lex Luger

Billy Kidman vs. "Sugar" Shane Helms

The Jung Dragons vs. True Heroes

What will be match of the night? DDP vs Steiner

How many championships will change hands? 0

The wrestler signed from the WWF will debut on this show. Who is it? Eddy Guerrero

Who will Vampiro and Father Isaac offer "salvation" to? Dustin Rhodes

Who will be the survivors of the eight man tag team elimination match? Sting and Booker T

The Final Countdown · January 18, 2017

September 9th, 2001: Fall Brawl <div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/PTzZk7H.jpg September 9th, 2001 From Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana Attendance: 9,943 Announce Team: "The Professor" Mike Tenay and Bret "The Hitman" Hart http://i.imgur.com/y93UBAQ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/4Xw5lCb.jpg Official Theme Song: "Toxicity" by System Of A Down <iframe width="560" height="315" src="<a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bWSxELGNShk?rel=0" rel="external nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/embed/bWSxELGNShk?rel=0"</a> frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> </div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Billy Kidman (w/Torrie Wilson) vs. "Sugar" Shane Helms http://i.imgur.com/jL0KtAH.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/VMwitRH.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EiVoLiY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/hlbUlLo.jpg</div> The show opened with some cruiserweight action which also served as the conclusion to this three month story. I thought Billy and Shane did a good job straddling the line between having a flashy and exciting opening match and working like they genuinely disliked each other. All of our PPV openers have done a good job getting the crowd into the show right away, and this one was no exception. There was a pretty good stretch run where both guys went back and forth with near-falls and finisher teases. Kidman hit his sitout spinebuster and was all set to deliver the shooting star press, but... <div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/OZDc3yZ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/omw6AWI.jpg</div> Chris Candido and Tammy Sytch walked down to ringside and began taunting him. He took his eye off the ball long enough that Helms was able to roll out of the way once he finally took flight, and moments later Shane gave him the Vertebreaker to win the match. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B-</div> Mike and I began speculating that Candido and Sytch's search for allies had led them to Helms, but that tease was squashed when Helms went to the back with no acknowledgment from either side. Candido and Sytch entered the ring, and Chris said that he and Tammy knew that in order to accumulate power, anyone they chose to align themselves with would need to be exceptionally talented. Then he handed the mic over to Tammy. "Luckily for us both, I still have some friends in high places up in New York, and when a certain superstar in the making was about to hit the open market, I found out right away and got to him before anyone else could. There was a man up there with all the ability in the world who was being looked over, ignored and held down. He knew he needed a change, and that's exactly what we're going to give him. We're all about power, and power means championships. Our new ally is going to be the cruiserweight champion of WCW very soon, but for now we'll settle with having him make an example out of you, Billy Kidman." <div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/ncMyE2p.jpg</div> Out came Taka Michinoku (who we'll be referring to simply as TAKA.) He entered the ring, picked Kidman up off of the mat and gave him a Michinoku Driver (guess I'll need a new name for that.) Torrie Wilson watched helplessly from the floor as TAKA shook hands with Candido and Sytch, cementing their new alliance. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: C</div> </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">The Jung Dragons vs. True Heroes http://i.imgur.com/s9FsjTY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/mCg9320.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EiVoLiY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/sOdsktm.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/SAWQKXw.jpg </div> This was not only the PPV debut of the True Heroes team, but the first PPV match for the Jung Dragons since our relaunch. It was obviously a big spotlight for both teams, and all four guys delivered. The great chemistry between Storm and Punk was evident once again, but Kaz and Jimmy held up their end too. All four guys performed well under my instructions to go all out and produced a sleeper candidate for match of the night. The Jung Dragons got plenty of chances to show some cool aerial stuff and were presented as a quality team, but I don't think anyone really thought they had much chance to win. This was ultimately about establishing the new kids on the block in the tag team division and everybody knew it. They beat Yang with a sequence where Storm connected with a superkick just as Punk was delivering a russian legsweep, and then Punk transitioned right into his Second City Stretch for the submission. That's going to be their primary match-ender, and we're calling it the Heroic Finish. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/Wi1oegS.jpg</div> We gave Scott a live microphone backstage, and I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best. Fortunately, he stuck to promoting the match with DDP. He was shockingly coherent tonight, with some good lines that actually made sense. Some might say insane and illogical promos are part of his appeal, but I digress. "Diamond Dallas Page, you think you're gonna be a 4-time champion? You think you're gonna beat the man with the largest arms in the world? Think again, Page! Tonight I'm gonna prove that I'm the only man great enough to be WCW champion, and you're gonna have to go home to your trailer park and cry about it!" <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: A</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Rey Misterio Jr. vs. "The Total Package" Lex Luger http://i.imgur.com/9v49DN6.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EiVoLiY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/zJ5f3EO.jpg</div> I think everybody knew what was coming here, and who I value more. The way this match played out validated my opinions on both guys. Luger was really off of his game, and considering his mediocre level of work when he's actually 'on', that's a frightening thought. His basic power offense looked like garbage here, and I swear he was moving in slow motion. Thankfully Rey is one of the best around, and he was able to drag Lexy kicking and screaming to a pretty good match. Misterio escaped an attempt at the Torture Rack and hit a speedy hurricanrana to win the match. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B-</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/egREuu7.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/u4Nhu66.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/3b4L6vE.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/DhzkzHt.jpg </div> We did a backstage promo with Satyr's Hopeful Few, and all four guys got a chance to speak. Chavo didn't do very well as he talked about wanting to use the UFS to regain the cruiserweight title, but the other three picked up the slack with some good performances. Bagwell was pretty entertaining as he said he was going to show that he was 'the stuff' tonight and earn a future championship to go around his buff waist, and Kanyon was also good as he talked about adding more gold to go along with his United States title. To no one's surprise, Flair stole the show. "All I hear is Booker T and Sting arguing about who should get a world title shot, like they've already won. Boys, let me tell you right now: NEVER underestimate the Nature Boy! I am the greatest professional wrestler OF ALL TIME, and don't you ever forget it! Stinger, I respect you, but you know better than anybody that I'm at my best when titles are on the line, and tonight might as well be a title match! Booker, pal, you're a great athlete and a great champion, but you haven't stood the test of time like Ric Flair! Tonight, with these three men by my side, I will walk that aisle and prove that even at 52 years old, I'm STILL the man! WOOO!" <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Extreme Rules: Rob Van Dam vs. Mike Awesome http://i.imgur.com/uj4FkBt.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EiVoLiY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/wnP6Ftg.jpg</div> Yeah, with no announced notice, this was another extreme rules match. Boy did I screw the sequence of this storyline up. Shane Douglas, back from vacation, was on color with us, and we played up the ECW connection between him, RVD and Awesome. Shane was pretty bad on color, sadly. The focal point of this match was Van Dam's kayfabe leg injury. Awesome worked the leg throughout, and RVD made a show of moving gingerly at times and not executing his usual offense with the kicks and acrobatic stuff. Awesome was free to work his normal style, though I have to say he looked a little rough at times with some poorly delivered moves. It was still a good match; one of the best of the night in fact. A lot of that is down to the hardcore format, because both of these guys are so comfortable working that style. Rob tried to use his Van Daminator, but Awesome adjusted and swung the chair into the injured leg instead. Several chair shots to the leg followed, and RVD really sold the agony of the attack on his leg. He was easy pickings after that for an Awesome Bomb and a 3-count. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/5AB1rzg.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/l0qRIIJ.jpg</div> We did a ringside interview where Dustin discussed his recent struggles. He admitted being frustrated at coming up short in big matches recently, including against Shane Douglas at The Big Bang, in the UFS against Sean O'Haire and in the #1 contender's battle royal. Bobby was entertaining as he grilled Dustin on what he was going to do to turn his fortunes around, and Rhodes was also good as he calmly said that he wasn't going to change anything. He was going to keep putting in the work, and eventually his luck was bound to change. <div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/kccSmqv.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/4Hgahfk.jpg </div> Vampiro and Father Isaac interrupted, which wasn't much of a surprise to our fans given the comments I've seen on our website. Vampiro said they had the answer to all of Dustin's troubles. They had come to offer...salvation. (There's that word again.) He talked for a bit more, then handed the mic to Isaac. "You have everything, Dustin. You have the genetics, you have the size, you have the talent, you have a long career of modest successes. But why, with all of your attributes, have you never reached the pinnacle of your profession? I know you entered this business to please your legendary father, and what better way to do that than by following in his footsteps and becoming heavyweight champion of the world? That elusive dream can be yours, Dustin. You've allowed your failures to cloud your vision, but we can help you see clearly. Join us, Dustin. I offer to you salvation--and I guarantee that if you accept, you will finally achieve your dream and become the world champion." Dustin was baffled by all of this and walked away without giving an answer, but Isaac smiled and laughed. Isaac's delivery was strong here. So was Vampiro's, and his overall performance was great too. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: C</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/u0cJ04Z.jpg Jamie Knoble vs. Jushin Thunder Liger {©} http://i.imgur.com/CCq92jB.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EiVoLiY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/RvGrceu.jpg</div> What an opportunity this was for Knoble. His first PPV match since the relaunch, and he was in there with one of the best in the world. I told these guys to go out there, lay it all on the line and do their best to steal the show. I don't know if they quite accomplished that, thanks in part to Jamie's submission holds just not looking as good as they normally do, but it was still a pretty good match that got the fans in the arena buzzing. The match obviously wasn't as heated as it could have been since both guys are faces, but the action was still good. Knoble spent a decent portion of the match working Liger's legs with submissions, but Mike and I played up the idea that Liger is versatile enough to change his strategy on the fly. He did little flying and eschewed his rolling koppu kick during his late match comeback, relying instead on countering a modified figure four into a really painful-looking surfboard/dragon sleeper combination. Knoble had nowhere to go and was forced to submit, but I really need to find ways to get this kid more exposure. We could have something special there. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B-</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/sJZr1Hv.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/cxjgZpP.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Ht8KF88.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/eLttffP.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/iWrsHvp.jpg </div> It was time for the K-Nections to cut a promo. Styles and Wright were basically relegated to the background here, with Booker and Sting doing all the talking. Predictably both of them made it clear they hoped to get a world championship match out of the UFS, though it was played as a respectful thing with no animosity. This wasn't a great night for Sting on the mic; I think he got a little overexcited and it hurt his performance. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B+</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/S0cu0uO.jpg Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. The Natural Born Thrillers {©} http://i.imgur.com/nfnKuFX.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/a0mKYEd.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EiVoLiY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/zbQxlTu.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/9QpxTLI.jpg </div> I didn't really expect much when I made this match. The Thrillers' previous title defenses haven't been BAD, but outside of last month's match in Japan with Gedo and Jado they haven't been particularly good either. Given that this was an all-face match, I figured we'd get something around the level of the matches they had with the likes of 3 Count and Luger/Bagwell. Instead, for whatever reason, this match was a real pleasant surprise. It very nearly walked away with match of the night honors in fact. This was pretty much a back-and-forth match where neither team held the edge for long, with Morrus and Konnan able to brawl their way to a standstill in the face of the Thrillers' power. Eventually Konnan was taken out of the picture with a diving shoulder block from Palumbo, and O'Haire finished Hugh off with a fireman's carry into a facebuster. As the match ended, Mike and I openly wondered whether any tag team could hope to end the dominant run the Thrillers had been on since the start of 2001. That's called foreshadowing, folks. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B http://i.imgur.com/uY8UroB.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/hjNw7kz.jpg </div> Moments after our question was asked, Brian Adams and Bryan Clark came to the ring and got in the Thrillers' faces. The two teams stared each other down, with Adams and Clark making it clear they were back and coming after those titles. I thought this segment did exactly what it was designed to do, which was show that the Thrillers aren't the only asskicking tag team in WCW. This was the TV return of both Adams and Clark after they recovered from nagging injuries suffered in the old WCW. I don't want to use the name 'Kronik' with its obvious drug connotations, so we'll need to come up with a new name for them. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/WWA8fPj.jpg</div> DDP cut an intense promo about what tonight meant to him. "This isn't just about the title. Between me and you, Scotty, it's always been personal. You talk about me, that's one thing, but talking about my wife is WAY over the line. I'm gonna take your title tonight, Scott, but first I'm going to hurt you. BAD." I'm not sure Dallas totally hit the mark with this one, but the crowd was so hot for both the show and this feud that it didn't matter much. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: A</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">UFS Final Round Tiebreaker: #1 Satyr's Hopeful Few vs. #2 The K-Nections http://i.imgur.com/egREuu7.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/u4Nhu66.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/3b4L6vE.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/DhzkzHt.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EiVoLiY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/sJZr1Hv.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/cxjgZpP.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Ht8KF88.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/eLttffP.jpg</div> As noted, this was worked under the classic Survivor Series set-up. Booker started off for his team, with Mike and I saying he obviously wanted to get things off to a great start and state his case for deserving the world title shot if his team wins. Book was great both in kayfabe and in actual performance, having good battles with first Chavo and then Kanyon. He refused to tag out, intent on making his statement. It didn't seem like it would hurt him, as he had Flair down and out and was all set to finish him with the Harlem Hangover. But Flair wasn't nearly as down and out as he appeared. Ric rolled out of the way, and after Booker's crash landing he cradled him for a surprising three count in the match's first elimination. The K-Nections rebounded from Booker's elimination with Styles getting a pin on Bagwell (thank god we got him out of there quick, because he looked terrible tonight.) Buff was angry, and he responded by giving Flair a sucker punch as he stepped into the ring and then DDTing him! Buff shouted down, demanding to know why Flair didn't make the save for him (he was in the best position to do so.) Flair was caught off-guard by the cheap shot and was easy prey for a Scorpion Deathdrop that eliminated him. Satyr's Hopeful Few was at a numbers disadvantage, but not for long: Chavo blocked an Alex Wright german suplex and pinned him after a brainbuster. It was now 2-on-2, with established upper card guys Sting and Kanyon supported by talented cruiserweights AJ Styles and Chavo Guerrero Jr. It remained two on two for a good deal of time, with both teams going back and forth, knowing full well that the next elimination would be a crucial one. Sting and Kanyon did their job as stars, really shining when they were in there either with either opponent and joining Booker as the standouts of the match from a performance standpoint. Chavo had AJ up for his grandfather's Gory Special, but Styles countered it into an <a href="" rel="">http://i.imgur.com/mCQkHFW.gif[/img]"]amazing-looking sunset flip powerbomb</a> to get the pin. That left Kanyon all alone against Sting and Styles. He fought as best he could, but with both faces tagging in and out to stay fresh it was only a matter of time. AJ softened Kanyon up with a springboard forearm, and Sting finished the job with the Scorpion Deathlock. Sting and Styles survive, and the K-Nections win the UFS! <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B http://i.imgur.com/l0qRIIJ.jpg</div> Wright and Booker came back out to celebrate the win with their surviving teammates, and Bobby also came out to interview the victors. He only got a few words out before Booker grabbed the microphone and said that this was exactly what he was talking about! They'd won the UFS, and now he could get the world title rematch he should've gotten the moment he lost his title without even being pinned or submitted! Sting naturally took issue with that, saying that he eliminated two guys and survived until the end while Booker was the first man out, so the results spoke for themselves as far as who deserved to challenge either Scott Steiner or DDP for the world title. Even if he himself wasn't chosen, AJ Styles had done more to earn a world title shot than Booker during this final round. Booker brushed it off, saying that their victory wouldn't have been possible if he hadn't come out like a house of fire and gotten the match started hot, and Sting replied by reminding him that this entire tiebreaker wouldn't have even been necessary if he had just beaten Flair last week on Nitro. It got pretty tense between the two top picks of the K-Nections after that, but Styles and Wright kept the peace while Heenan said that the decision would ultimately belong to team manager Kevin Gaines, and we'd find out his choice next month at Halloween Havoc during the official trophy presentation. Booker was really good here as the energetic, somewhat delusional ex-champion trying to justify why he should be getting the title match, but Sting wasn't all that great in his role as the guy providing the reality check. Bobby didn't do very well either; it looked like he almost forgot to mention the role Kevin Gaines will play in all this. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: A</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/haJKoFv.jpg Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner (w/Midajah) {©} http://i.imgur.com/WWA8fPj.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EiVoLiY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Wi1oegS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QEoXr2L.jpg </div> In looking to play off of the real-life animosity between these guys, we structured this as much less a match and more a fight. They had the classic uncontrollable pier six brawl, beating the crap out of each other in the ring, out of the ring, up the aisle, etc. They didn't hit each other with weapons or anything like that, but they did throw each other into the guardrail, the steps and the ring post. On commentary we made sure to credit referee Nick Patrick for understanding the emotion here and giving the guys plenty of leeway despite having cause to disqualify and/or count either or both men out. It was a fun brawl, but there wasn't a whole lot of psychology on display. Dallas' age is catching up to him too, which you could see as he struggled to keep up physically. Scott looked to have things all set up for the Steiner Recliner, but Page blocked it and punched his way back to his feet. A discus clothesline dropped Steiner, and DDP flashed the Diamond Cutter sign. Steiner got back up, and Page struck. Or tried to at least. Steiner blocked the Diamond Cutter and shoved Page towards the turnbuckles, with Patrick having to scramble out of the way to avoid being trampled. That put him out of position, and Steiner exploited this by kicking DDP in the groin. Patrick got back into position just in time to count the tainted pinfall. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: B</div> The match was over, but the action was far from finished. DDP tackled Steiner to the ground as he was being handed his belt, and they started trading punches on the mat. Patrick was completely incapable of pulling the enemies apart so he started waving to the back for reinforcements. They rolled underneath the bottom rope and out to the floor, still fighting the entire time. Officials were finally able to pull them apart out on the floor--but then DDP broke free and tackled Steiner right on top of our announce table! The crowd popped big for that. They were hot for this entire segment really. Mike and I put the headsets down and scurried out of the way as the brawl continued, and that seemed as good a way as any to close this show out. The match may not have been a blowaway, but that brawl was magic. <div style="text-align:center;">Grade: A*</div> </div></blockquote> <div style="text-align:center;">Show Overall Grade: B+</div>

K-Nection · January 18, 2017

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I don't want to use the name 'Kronik' with its obvious drug connotations, so we'll need to come up with a new name for them. </div></blockquote> I vote for BtoB Bryan to Bryan lol.... As far as my decision goes I have an interesting idea that I will send you via PM.

smartman · January 18, 2017

<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="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Have you seen any of Shane's matches from this time period?....he is the king of dangerous spots. That is literally his thing is he either jumps off something high or gets put through something brutal. The man has been put through glass and fallen of the titantron. That elbow drop through the announce table spot was made famous by Shane McMahon. Shane is not a full time worker so he could always do the most craziest stuff because he never has to worry about going to work the next day. I think the relationship they are talking about is Shane is supposed to be married to a character that is not in the game world.</div></blockquote> I wasn't sure when Shane got married. And there's a great big difference between doing stunts in matches when the opponent doesn't hate your guts and one where the guy could make a huge name for himself by hurting Shane. Hell, as was pointed out in a video of the bloodiest matches on YT, Joey Mercury took an accidental ladder shot from one of the Hardys and busted his orbital bone and had to be rushed to the hospital due to blood loss lest he die. So, putting yourself at risk like that is just dumb. It would be too easy for Matt to make the severe damage look accidental thus avoiding a lawsuit.

K-Nection · January 18, 2017

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="smartman" data-cite="smartman" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I wasn't sure when Shane got married. And there's a great big difference between doing stunts in matches when the opponent doesn't hate your guts and one where the guy could make a huge name for himself by hurting Shane. Hell, as was pointed out in a video of the bloodiest matches on YT, Joey Mercury took an accidental ladder shot from one of the Hardys and busted his orbital bone and had to be rushed to the hospital due to blood loss lest he die. So, putting yourself at risk like that is just dumb. It would be too easy for Matt to make the severe damage look accidental thus avoiding a lawsuit.</div></blockquote> Well that didn't stop the WWE from doing a match between Edge and Matt. It never stopped NWA from doing a match between Tully Blanchard and Magnum TA. It didn't even stop Bret Hart from booking Scott Steiner against DDP. The boys know that real hate puts buts in seats....

The Lariat · January 18, 2017

Just for reference, Shane got married back in 1996. So, yeah, extra-marital affair here.

BHK6 · January 18, 2017

Congratulations on winning the UFS K-Nection. You put together a great team.

K-Nection · January 18, 2017

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="BHK6" data-cite="BHK6" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Congratulations on winning the UFS K-Nection. You put together a great team.</div></blockquote> Thanks bud I don't see me having that kind of luck next time around:p

Briskout · January 19, 2017

Love it but I am disappointed in one thing - how was the ufs final not a war games match??

LordofGustav · January 19, 2017

I'm back! Sorry if i had too long, but i was focusing on other things in life!

Good diary and good perspective of the matches from Bret Hart's POV.

The Final Countdown · January 19, 2017

September 2001: Fall Brawl Wrap-up <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>"So can I count you in?" I asked. The voice on the other line remained hesitant. "I dunno, Bret. I'm kind of enjoying actually being at home with my family for a change. Not sure I wanna give that up." "You won't have to," I assured him. "I'm not asking you to go back on the road. I'm not even asking you to sign a written contract with us. We're probably only talking one or two shows a month. Three tops." "And no bumps? "No bumps," I repeated. " No bumps, no matches, no physical stuff. All I want from you is to come to TV a couple times a month, maybe the PPV too, to do interview segments to get our storylines and characters over. I know you'd be great at it. Your track record speaks for itself." "Can I have a week or two to think it over?" he asked. I could tell he was strongly considering the idea. "Of course. Take as much time as you need, and get in touch with me once you've decided."</div></blockquote> Negotiations never stop just because I have PPVs to run. I hope to hear good news on that negotiation over the next few days, but we'll have to wait and see. There were no tremendous matches tonight, but several good ones. The main event narrowly edged out the tag title match and True Heroes/Jung Dragons for match of the night. I praised Booker for going along with tonight's booking swerve without complaint, and also thanked DDP for giving it his all to keep up in a physically taxing brawl. I was less kind to Lex Luger. I publicly called him out for a lackluster performance and made it clear to him and everyone else that effort like that is the surest way to get your push and even your job taken away, no matter how big a star you might have been in the past. Lex didn't really react to my criticism, at least not publicly. It seemed like some of the fans thought AJ Styles got too much time on the show given his current standing in the company. That's not a booking decision I regret though, because I thought this show was a big boost for him. Buff isn't happy with his recent booking. Duly noted. Hugh Morrus was really impressed with the performance of TAKA. Interesting to see the reactions from some of these WCW guys who were always doing their own thing and never able to see him work in WWF. That match with Jamie Knoble took a lot out of Jushin Liger. Between working for us, New Japan, All Japan and German company Westside Xtreme Wrestling, Jushin's got a very busy schedule right now. He asked not to be booked on tomorrow's Nitro and I readily agreed. Jason Jett was caught looking at his phone during our pre-show meeting, and Dusty called him out for it in front of the boys. I usually leave these kind of minor disciplinary things to Dusty because he handles it in such a way that everybody, even the guy being put on notice, is usually laughing by the end. Johnny Swinger's still a job guy right now, but Sting continues to work with him on becoming a more polished performer. Eventually I'm going to have to find something substantial for him to do. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Prediction scores (maximum possible points: 13) ((+3 = correctly predicted K-Nections to win UFS)) Uncrewed: 12 Dead_Jester: 11 DGenerationMC: 11 crackerjack: 11 K-Nection: 10 (+3) jscotty: 10 (+3) deanohbk: 10 (+3) franticloser: 10 (+3) evileddie10: 10 Satyr24: 10 chrismday: 10 SomeLazyMagic: 10 (+3) Beejus: 9 (+3) Superkickparty: 9 BHK6: 9 rjhabeeb: 9 GingeyOne: 9 Rainmaker: 8 smw88: 8 (+3) Cro Cop Rules: 8 (+3) Warhawk8492: 8 michgcs: 8 (+3) Nobby_McDonald: 8 Happy0wns: 7 KnowYourEnemy: 7 (+3) The Lariat: 7 </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Standings in prediction contest after three shows (three shows remaining): Beejus: 27 Uncrewed: 27 K-Nection: 27 SomeLazyMagic: 27 deanohbk: 27 jscotty: 26 Satyr24: 25 Dead_Jester: 25 Cro Cop Rules: 25 franticloser: 25 evileddie10: 24 smw88: 24 crackerjack: 23 michgcs: 23 Rainmaker: 22 BHK6: 21 KnowYourEnemy: 21 Happy0wns: 20 Nobby_McDonald: 18 DGenerationMC: 17 StarshipAwsome: 14 GingeyOne: 14 Superkickparty: 14 Warhawk8492: 13 Wolfman84: 12 chrismday: 10 rjhabeeb: 9 Armando Payne: 7 The Lariat: 7 PopeBrandonBrownson: 5 </div></blockquote> <hr noshade size=3> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="chrismday" data-cite="chrismday" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Hey man ... was a silent follower of TGAAB and been following this too. Thought I'd have a crack at some predictions!</div></blockquote> Thanks for following, and welcome! Happy to have you here, and as your first post on the board even! <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="rjhabeeb" data-cite="rjhabeeb" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©}</div></blockquote> Wow, blast from the past! Always good to see you around these parts. <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="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Well that didn't stop the WWE from doing a match between Edge and Matt. It never stopped NWA from doing a match between Tully Blanchard and Magnum TA. It didn't even stop Bret Hart from booking Scott Steiner against DDP. The boys know that real hate puts buts in seats....</div></blockquote> You're not wrong, but the key difference here is that the other party is Vince's son. Vince had no problem putting Edge in there with Matt and playing off of their real life situation, but I doubt he'd take that same sort of chance with Shane. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="The Lariat" data-cite="The Lariat" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Just for reference, Shane got married back in 1996. So, yeah, extra-marital affair here.</div></blockquote> Yep. He should've been set to an out of the business marriage, and Matt and Lita should've been dating. <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="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Thanks bud I don't see me having that kind of luck next time around:p</div></blockquote> You're counting your chickens before you hatch there, friend. You'll have to quality for the field of eight first. Still three more shows to go! <img alt=":p" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Briskout" data-cite="Briskout" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Love it but I am disappointed in one thing - how was the ufs final not a war games match??</div></blockquote> I did consider that, but I want to hold off on War Games. There'll definitely be War Games matches in this dynasty because I love the entire concept, but it's not going to be something I do with little to no notice or story buildup. I'm going to use War Games matches only in spots where I feel like it's a logical storyline destination. I honestly have no clue when we'll see the first one pop up, but it'll happen eventually. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="LordofGustav" data-cite="LordofGustav" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I'm back! Sorry if i had too long, but i was focusing on other things in life! Good diary and good perspective of the matches from Bret Hart's POV.</div></blockquote> No problem man. Great to see you!

Cro Cop Rules · January 19, 2017

Fall Brawl shaped up to be a great wrestling show. I love the decision to extend Steiner and DDP; it truly seems that they dislike each other (as they do in real life) which is often a hard thing to convey in a wrestling feud. You have definitely managed to do so.

The UFS finals gave a rub to whoever needed it. AJ being a survivor really lets him stand out, and Kanyon & Chavo looked good being the last two. Booker getting put out early adds another wrinkle to his character, giving him more dimension.

The Matt Hardy/Shane McMahon thing is funny, hopefully it leads to Matt (and maybe Jeff) jumping ship. Perhaps Matt becomes broken about 15 years earlier? <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

I also enjoyed the return of (the artists formerly known as) Kronik, it was a genuine surprise as I had forgotten they were on the roster.

Hopefully the mystery man Bret was talking to is Piper. Piper's Pit in WCW would be amazing.

As always, keep up the good work. Hopefully I can sneak into the next UFS <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/cool.png.f00d2562b2c1d873a09323753efdb041.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

K-Nection · January 19, 2017

<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="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>You're counting your chickens before you hatch there, friend. You'll have to quality for the field of eight first. Still three more shows to go! <img alt=":p" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div></blockquote> Hey this is the first time I have won anything in any capacity in your prediction contests and I've been playing for almost two years <img alt=":p" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />....if there is anyone that is humble it is this guy <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Rateddc · January 19, 2017

Loved the show man. I read through the entirety of TGA and then saw this and have just caught up. Shame I missed the predictions but I'll be right on board with the next lot. You've actually inspired me to try my hand at my own WCW Lives game.

Nobby_McDonald · January 19, 2017

Mmmm, I'm not doing very well with the predictions.

lnic · January 22, 2017

Hey haven't been predicting but wanted to let you know been following this diary top notch as always also like the new format

rjhabeeb · January 22, 2017

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Wow, blast from the past! Always good to see you around these parts.</div></blockquote> Thanks for the appreciation, I haven't really been following around here a lot but this dynasty is great so far. I need to go back and read TGA and re-read your fantastic ROH dynasty

The Final Countdown · January 24, 2017

October 2001: Road to Halloween Havoc <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/C7WWlCZ.jpg September 10th, 2001 From the Athletics-Recreation Center in Valparaiso, Indiana Attendance: 4,794 Announce Team: "The Professor" Mike Tenay and Bret "The Hitman" Hart </div> DDP in ring to demand rematch w/Steiner; Arn Anderson tells him he can earn another title shot by defeating Scott's brother Rick in tonight's main event. (B+) TAKA made his WCW in-ring debut (televised, at least) and looked very impressive in flying to victory in convincing fashion over Air Paris. (B) Kidman comes out to demand match with TAKA, Tammy Sytch responds: "We're big money players, so if you want your revenge you'll have to do it on the big stage that is Halloween Havoc!" (C-) K-Nections backstage; tension between Booker and Sting as they discuss who should receive the world title match. (B) The former Kronik returned to the ring in dominant fashion, with Chris Harris and James Storm being the unfortunate victims. (D+) Adams and Clark grab microphone after match, state that no matter what people might have heard, they're the only true dominant tag team in WCW. The Natural Born Thrillers come out and say if they want to prove that, they know where to find the real kings of the mountain. © Unseen backstage footage from Fall Brawl, where True Heroes poke fun at Hugh Morrus and Konnan for failing in their tag team title shot. Morrus and Konnan are not pleased. (C+) More footage from Fall Brawl; Shane Douglas walks into the trainer's room and mockingly asks Rob Van Dam if his leg's okay. Trainers hold RVD on the table when he tries to confront him. (B-) Vampiro was on color commentary to observe Dustin Rhodes in action, and he made it clear that he and Father Isaac were not giving up on offering "salvation" to Dustin. Rhodes was aware of his presence but did not let it distract him or keep him from defeating Shawn Stasiak. © DDP promo: "If I gotta go through the Gremlin to get to the Freak, that's fine by me. Scotty, you're the one who brought family into this when you insulted my wife, so I'm gonna take extra pleasure in laying out your big brother tonight!" (A) Local wrestler Danny Dominion was no match for Steve Corino. (C+) Corino grabs mic after match, warns AJ Styles not to bask in his UFS win for too long, because they still have unfinished business to settle! AJ (w/Keibler) replies from backstage, says he hasn't forgotten Corino and looks forward to shutting his mouth for good. (B-) Interview with Shane Helms, the new #1 contender for the cruiserweight title: "There's no Kidman to get in the way this time, so I'm taking that belt back, Liger!" (C-) Ric Flair and Buff Bagwell were in the ring as opponents one night after their tentative UFS partnership imploded. Buff tried to strut his stuff, but won't be strutting anywhere for awhile after being forced to tap to a figure four. (C+) Lex Luger joins Buff for assault on Flair, but Sting makes the save. Afterwards, Flair grabs the mic and asks Sting to join him for a tag match against Luger and Bagwell next week! (B) Rey Misterio Jr. wants a rematch at Kanyon for the US title; Kanyon tells him if he can beat his S.H.F. partner Chavo Guerrero Jr. next week, he'll "think about it." (B-) The stakes were very high for DDP in the night's main event, but it was also a chance for him to send a bit of a message by giving a beating to Scott Steiner's brother. Rick was no pushover though, and he gave DDP quite a beating with some painful power moves and suplexes geared to weaken the back. Dallas absorbed a lot of punishment, but still was able to catch the elder Steiner with a Diamond Cutter to win the match and earn another crack at the world champion. (B) Scott Steiner attacks DDP after the match; Page fights back. Despite failed efforts to break them apart by officials, the bitter enemies brawl around ringside and even into the crowd! (A*) <div style="text-align:center;">Show Grade: B+ http://i.imgur.com/pBTSX2H.jpg Taped immediately after Nitro Announce Team: Tony Schiavone and Don West </div> After months of struggle, Cash won for the second week in a row when he took care of local Danny Dominion. (D+) AJ Styles and Stacy Keibler interview; AJ discusses Corino feud, refuses to give hint on what title he hopes to challenge for thanks to his UFS victory. (C-) Ernest Miller prevailed over Johnny Swinger and likely celebrated with a night of dancing. (D+) Jamie Knoble interview; he was disappointed to come up short against Liger, but considers it a learning experience and something to grow from. © The Mamalukes wanted to prove they were still a player in the tag team division, but a Heroic Finish made sure that Lance Storm and CM Punk got the win instead. (C+) <div style="text-align:center;">Show Grade: C </div> </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/C7WWlCZ.jpg September 17th, 2001 From Lundholm Gym in Durham, New Hampshire Attendance: 3,500 Announce Team: "The Professor" Mike Tenay and Bret "The Hitman" Hart </div> Patriotic video; Mike Tenay voiceover proclaims that everyone in WCW extends their sympathies to all who were affected by the September 11th terrorist attacks. (D) The entire roster surrounds the ringside area as Dusty Rhodes stands in the ring and cuts a passionate promo about America being the land of the free and the home of the brave. "New York, Washington DC, everybody from coast to coast, all corners of the globe are thinkin' about you. We are so humbled that you've chosen to give us two hours of your time to entertain you and hopefully help you forget about your troubles for just a moment in time. Me, you, the WCW roster, the brave men and women who rushed to help in our darkest hour, and anyone who waves that flag and honors what the stars and stripes stands for--all of us, together, will make sure the true American Dream never dies! Thank you, and may God bless America!" (B) The in-ring action opened with Ric Flair and Sting joining forces to defeat Totally Buffed when Sting submitted Luger with the Scorpion Deathlock. (B-) Vampiro and Father Isaac approach Dustin Rhodes to again try and convince him to join them; he warns them to leave him alone. © Hugh Morrus and Konnan barge into a True Heroes interview session to demand match; Punk and Storm accept, saying it's about time these has-beens make way for the next great tag team. © Perhaps energized by his match with Jushin Liger, Jamie Knoble thoroughly outwrestled and defeated Alan Funk. © Mike Awesome lays out Knoble after the match; complains about being left off of Nitro last week after destroying RVD at Fall Brawl. "You should be shining the spotlight on stars like me, not on common rednecks like Jamie Knoble!" (B-) Steve Corino interrupts AJ Styles/Stacy Keibler WCW.com chat session to suggest they finally finish this at Halloween Havoc, "if you can find time for me in between your adolescent flirting and your undeserved UFS ceremony." Styles accepts the challenge. (B-) Shane Douglas interview: "I've heard people gushing about Rob Van Dam for years, and I'm sick of it! I was the true leader of the hardcore revolution, not him! Now it's carrying over here to WCW, but I'm not gonna let that happen!" © Booker T easily defeated Johnny Swinger. (B-) Booker post-match promo: "Kevin Gaines, I hope you're watchin', because there ain't nobody who deserves that world title shot more than Booker T!" (B) Shane Helms interview; mocks Jushin Liger and says he can throw away his passport and stay in Japan permanently after Shane gets HIS belt back at Halloween Havoc! (C-) Elix Skipper's a talented athlete, but he could not avoid Billy Kidman's Shooting Star Press. Kidman won the match despite Chris Candido, Tammy Sytch and TAKA stepping out into the aisle midway through. (C+) Kidman challenges TAKA to come fight him right now. Candido and Sytch deny the challenge, and the three of them exit ringside and leave the building in a fancy limo. © Natural Born Thrillers interview: "Hopefully Adams and Clark are still as tough as they think they are, because we could use an actual challenge!" (C+) Kanyon promo; he doubts Rey Misterio will get past Chavo up next. "But even if you do, Rey, we already found out you ain't betta than Kanyon back in Tokyo, and that ain't gonna change!" (B-) Rey Misterio and Chavo Guerrero know each others' styles very well, and this led to a competitive back-and-forth match. Chavo had some success targeting Rey's legs and preventing him from using his aerial skills, but Misterio escaped a brainbuster and executed a swinging hurricanrana to win the match and earn his rematch with Kanyon. (B) Arn Anderson conducts satellite promo w/DDP and Scott Steiner, who were barred from the building as safety precaution. Arn says that in order to protect the fans and ensure the only bodies DDP and Steiner put at risk at Halloween Havoc are each others', their rematch will be held inside a steel cage! (A) <div style="text-align:center;">Show Grade: B+ http://i.imgur.com/pBTSX2H.jpg Taped immediately after Nitro Announce Team: Tony Schiavone and Don West </div> After looking impressive in a losing effort against True Heroes at Fall Brawl, the Jung Dragons returned to their recent winning ways by taking care of Chris Harris and James Storm. © Rey Misterio interview; he can't wait to get the United States title back at Halloween Havoc. (C+) Chris Candido didn't have much trouble defeating Jason Jett. (D+) True Heroes interview; Hugh Morrus and Konnan are nothing more than cannon fodder for them. © UFS winner Alex Wright came away with his hand raised after beating Mike Sanders, building momentum for whichever championship he'll be chosen to eventually challenge for. (C+) <div style="text-align:center;">Show Grade: C+ </div> </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/C7WWlCZ.jpg September 24th, 2001 From Flowers Hall in Florence, Alabama Attendance: 4,000 Announce Team: "The Professor" Mike Tenay and Bret "The Hitman" Hart </div> Jushin Liger was back for non-title action. Cash gave him a good match, but the Japanese star picked up the win with his Liger Bomb. (B) Shane Helms attacks Liger from behind, gives him the Vertebreaker! "There's more where that came from at Halloween Havoc, Liger, because I'm takin' back my belt that you never shoulda gotten in the first place!" (C+) Mike Awesome makes fun of Jamie Knoble during backstage interview, calls him "ordinary"; Knoble barges in, and some harsh words lead to a brief scuffle! Knoble surprisingly gets the upper hand after getting on a guillotine choke! (C-) Steve Corino enjoyed himself as he beat Air Paris in singles action, making sure to trashtalk both Paris and his Air Raid partner AJ Styles the entire time. (B-) Corino continues to taunt and beat Paris after the match; Styles races out to make save, chasing Corino from the ring. (C+) Announce team briefly hypes a major announcement concerning the K-Nections later on tonight. (C+) DDP and Rey Misterio interview about tonight's main event tag match against Scott Steiner and Kanyon. Rey not afraid of mixing it up with either opponent; DDP wants Steiner's head, but wouldn't object to beating up "old friend" Kanyon on the side. (B+) What was supposed to be a singles match between Hugh Morrus and Lance Storm featured copious distractions thanks to their tag team partners. As the referee warned Konnan to keep his distance, CM Punk took Morrus out with a Devil Lock DDT to allow Storm to get the win. (B) Candido handles an interview on behalf of his crew. He calls Kidman "small potatoes" and refuses to answer any questions about the recent lavishness the group has displayed. © Ric Flair and Chavo Guerrero Jr. backstage promo reveals that they'll receive a tag team title match thanks to the 2nd place finish of Satyr's Hopeful Few in the UFS. They agree that they should hold off on using the shot so they can have some matches as a team first. (B) Vampiro made it look easy as he dispatched Jason Jett. (D+) Dustin Rhodes comes out after the match, says he's fed up of Vampiro and Father Isaac bothering him and wants to settle it in the ring. Vampiro gives a cryptic answer in which he doesn't accept or refuse the challenge. © Arn Anderson is forced to gather officials and other wrestlers to pull Natural Born Thrillers and Adams/Clark apart backstage. "If you four wanna beat each other's brains out so bad, you can do it at Halloween Havoc with the titles on the line!" (B) 3 Count hasn't had much to sing or dance about lately, but picking up a win over local tag team The Naturals had to make them feel almost as happy as they do when a new Britney Spears album is released. © Scott Steiner and Kanyon promo on the upcoming main event. Kanyon calls them the "team of champions" and guarantees victory. Steiner just wants to beat up some white trash tonight, and if Rey gets in his way, he'll suplex him all the way back to Tijuana! (B+) Shane Douglas interview: "If Rob Van Dam is stupid enough to show his face in WCW again, I'll finish what Mike Awesome started and ensure that he can NEVER steal the spotlight and capitalize on my hard work ever again!" (C-) We had a pretty star-studded tag team main event on our hands. Rey and Kanyon did good work, but the intensity went up several notches whenever DDP and Steiner were in the ring together. They did lots of brawling, but Steiner was taken out of the equation late when Misterio wiped him out with a daring dive over the top rope. This meant there was no one to prevent Kanyon from being finished with the Diamond Cutter. (B+) The entirety of the K-Nections are assembled in the ring per Arn Anderson's request. Arn says that the title shots were supposed to be revealed at Halloween Havoc during the trophy presentation ceremony, but manager Kevin Gaines has made a decision that requires a slight change of plans. "There's only one world heavyweight title shot to be gained from the UFS, and we'll find out who's going to get it at Halloween Havoc when Booker T and Sting meet in a #1 contender's match!" (A) <div style="text-align:center;">Show Grade: B+ http://i.imgur.com/pBTSX2H.jpg Taped immediately after Nitro Announce Team: Tony Schiavone and Don West </div> The True Heroes had no trouble beating The Naturals. (C+) Unseen backstage footage from Nitro: AJ Styles and Stacy Keibler are checking on Air Paris when Steve Corino walks by, taunts AJ and calls him a poor friend for abandoning Paris, both tonight and during the UFS. AJ angrily chases him off, dares him to come back and fight. (C+) Motivated by his upcoming match with TAKA, Billy Kidman came away with a win over Kid Romeo, much to Torrie Wilson's pleasure. (C+) Post-match interview from Kidman: "TAKA can bring his entire entourage out to the ring in a limo if he wants; I'll still beat him!" © Former, and hopeful future, cruiserweight champion Shane Helms dispatched of an unnamed preliminary wrestler (who avid independent tape traders might recognize as promising young developmental talent Bryan Danielson.) (B-) <div style="text-align:center;">Show Grade: C+ </div> </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/C7WWlCZ.jpg October 8th, 2001 From the Avron B. Fogelman Arena in New Orleans, Louisiana Attendance: 3,600 Announce Team: "The Professor" Mike Tenay and Bret "The Hitman" Hart </div> We hadn't seen Air Raid team up in some time, but they took on Steve Corino and Fit Finlay tonight. Unfortunately they had a miscommunication when Corino avoided a Styles dropkick that hit Air Paris instead, and it led to their downfall. (B-) DDP and Scott Steiner were banned from the arena tonight to avoid any incidents, but Steiner sent in some pre-recorded thoughts: "Diamond Dallas Trash, you wanna get into a cage with me? Well that's the worst mistake of your whole life! Your wife's gonna have to use her unemployment check to buy a spatula so she can scrape you off the side of the cage!" (A) Impressive young talent Paul London was back in a WCW ring tonight, but his high flying was not enough to defeat Shane Douglas. (C+) Douglas grabs the mic and takes more shots at RVD--- <div style="text-align:center;"> http://i.imgur.com/FIVYBul.jpg</div> Roddy Piper appears on screen to say that Douglas and RVD are "cordially invited" to Piper's Pit at Halloween Havoc! (C+) The True Heroes were not worried about their tag team match against Sting and Booker T tonight; if Sting and Booker can't even stand in the same ring without arguing about who deserves a world title match, what hope do they have against the hottest tag team in the sport? (B) A singles match between Chuck Palumbo and Bryan Clark served as a preview for the tag team title match on Sunday. Clark won the physical battle after Brian Adams got involved. © Predictably, a post-match brawl broke out between the Natural Born Thrillers and Adams and Clark (now being called Doomsday.) (B) Shane Helms interview; gloats about giving Jushin Liger the Vertebreaker last week and says he'll do the same on Sunday. © Jamie Knoble has been at odds with the menacing Mike Awesome recently, but tonight he took on someone of his own size in Cash. Knoble showed increased aggression en route to winning the match. (C+) Knoble dares Awesome to come and fight him right now. Awesome appears on video screen, says he's not going to come out because he wants there to be something left of Knoble at Halloween Havoc. © Sting attempted to talk to Booker T about working together so they could get a win tonight, but Booker blew him off and told him to just stand on the apron and watch the true number one contender in action. (A*) Rey Misterio Jr. showcased some of his high flying skills before finishing off Johnny Swinger. (B) Kanyon comes out in aisle to taunt Rey by displaying the United States title, says it'll be staying right where it is at Halloween Havoc and everyone's happy to see the title on a deserving champion, not a fluke. Rey says he's used to being underestimated and he's never let it stop him before. (B) Billy Kidman and Torrie Wilson had an altercation with Candido, TAKA and Sytch, with Kidman telling TAKA that he's not about to let him use him as a stepping stone here in WCW and the talent level in the cruiserweight division is far above that joke of a division he came from. (C-) Ric Flair and Chavo Guerrero Jr. teamed up tonight to prep for their future title shot, and they did a good job of overcoming Elix Skipper and Kid Romeo, Flair holding Skipper's leg while Chavo finished Romeo with a brainbuster. © Dustin Rhodes thanks Arn Anderson for granting him his request to wrestle Vampiro at Halloween Havoc. © Sting and Booker T have more big match experience by far, but tension existed between them even before they found out they'd be squaring off against each other at Halloween Havoc. That served as a neutralizer, because they displayed no semblance of team work while True Heroes were functioning like a well-oiled machine. Thanks to Hugh Morrus and Konnan showing up and causing a momentary loss of focus for True Heroes, Sting was able to catch Punk with a Scorpion Deathdrop. Booker then tagged himself in and stole the pin as Sting stared at him. (B) DDP pre-taped promo: "No excuses, Scotty. Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, nobody gets in or out. Just you and me, and finally we can settle this thing once and for all inside that cage. You call me white trash? Well one thing I learned growing up in Jersey, while you were rolling around on amateur wrestling mats, was how to fight like a caged animal. Sunday, Halloween Havoc, you're not stepping into that cage for a championship wrestling match. You're stepping into a fight, and you're not leaving until they pry open that door and your brother carries your unconscious body outta there!" (A*) <div style="text-align:center;">Show Grade: B+ http://i.imgur.com/pBTSX2H.jpg Taped immediately after Nitro Announce Team: Tony Schiavone and Don West </div> Chris Candido withstood the efforts of Paul London and won the opening match. (B-) Jamie Knoble interview; all men are the same size when they're flat on their back, and that's just where Awesome will be at Halloween Havoc once he gets on the guillotine choke. (C-) The Mamalukes have had a rough time of it recently, but perhaps a win over Chris Harris and James Storm will boost their confidence a bit. (D-) RVD promo; he welcomes the chance to step into Piper's Pit with Shane Douglas. (C+) Dustin Rhodes has a match with Vampiro coming up at Halloween Havoc, but he stayed focused and took care of the massive Hell Raiser in fairly easy fashion. © <div style="text-align:center;">Show Grade: C </div> </div></blockquote> The first match between DDP and Steiner didn't go as well as I'd hoped, but the story required a rematch. Hopefully we'll get a better result inside the cage. I decided to go back to the Misterio/Kanyon matchup. I'll admit to having some regret about switching the title, especially after Kanyon's drug issues, but would it hurt the title to switch it again so soon? I don't really know what to expect from the tag title match. The Thrillers have had good matches on the last two PPVs, but the rechristened Doomsday aren't the workers that Gado, Jedo, Hugh Morrus or Konnan are. Hopefully these four can have a good brawl, but we'll see. I'm not using Liger every week so it's a bit different booking his storylines, but I think Shane Helms did fine carrying the feud verbally in his absence. I think this is a sleeper MOTN contender. Sting and Booker T should be a great one. Initially I was going to announce this match during the PPV ceremony and have it main event Nitro the following night, but I needed to do it early because we'll be starting a big tournament right after this show and the loser of this match will be part of it. Dustin and Vampiro have had some passable promos, and I think it's been an interesting midcard story. Both guys are solid workers and so should be capable of having a very good match, but hopefully Vampiro will come to the show with a clear head. The AJ Styles/Steve Corino feud got put on the backburner a bit thanks to AJ's involvement in the UFS, but we're back at it here. I'm not sure if I did as good a job as I would've liked at playing up Corino's love of old school fueling his hatred of AJ's flashy style. A month after both teams nearly stole the show in their respective matches at Fall Brawl, Hugh Morrus and Konnan are working with the True Heroes. That should be a good one. Ultimately I want to push Knoble as a cruiserweight, but I've got him in there with Mike Awesome this month. Matches like this have to be put together delicately, because having heavyweights smash the cruisers and make them look inferior could hurt the entire division. TAKA has been putting on really strong TV matches with the low-level guys he's worked with in his first month, so putting him in there with Kidman should bring out a great one if all goes to plan. I'll probably have them open the show and get us off to a positive start. <hr noshade size=3> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">http://i.imgur.com/S8R6TjK.jpg</div> Fan Scorecard: Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©} United States Heavyweight Championship: Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Kanyon {©} World Tag Team Championship: Doomsday vs. Natural Born Thrillers {©} Cruiserweight Championship: "Sugar" Shane Helms vs. Jushin Thunder Liger {©} Winner receives the UFS World Championship prize: Sting vs. Booker T Dustin Rhodes vs. Vampiro AJ Styles vs. Steve Corino Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. True Heroes Jamie Knoble vs. Mike Awesome Billy Kidman vs. TAKA What will be match of the night? How many championships will change hands? </div></blockquote>

Texasrangers13 · January 24, 2017

Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©}

United States Heavyweight Championship: Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Kanyon {©}

World Tag Team Championship: Doomsday vs. Natural Born Thrillers {©}

Cruiserweight Championship: "Sugar" Shane Helms vs. Jushin Thunder Liger {©}

Winner receives the UFS World Championship prize: Sting vs. Booker T

Dustin Rhodes vs. Vampiro

AJ Styles vs. Steve Corino

Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. True Heroes

Jamie Knoble vs. Mike Awesome

Billy Kidman vs. TAKA

What will be match of the night? Sting/Booker T

How many championships will change hands? 1

Love the layout and feel of this. Clever way to do a weekly show.

franticloser · January 24, 2017

Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©}

United States Heavyweight Championship: Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Kanyon {©}

World Tag Team Championship: Doomsday vs. Natural Born Thrillers {©}

Cruiserweight Championship: "Sugar" Shane Helms vs. Jushin Thunder Liger {©}

Winner receives the UFS World Championship prize: Sting vs. Booker T

Dustin Rhodes vs. Vampiro

AJ Styles vs. Steve Corino

Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. True Heroes

Jamie Knoble vs. Mike Awesome

Billy Kidman vs. TAKA

What will be match of the night?DDP vs Steiner

How many championships will change hands? 2

Uncrewed · January 24, 2017

Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©}

United States Heavyweight Championship: Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Kanyon {©}

World Tag Team Championship: Doomsday vs. Natural Born Thrillers {©}

Cruiserweight Championship: "Sugar" Shane Helms vs. Jushin Thunder Liger {©}

Winner receives the UFS World Championship prize: Sting vs. Booker T

Dustin Rhodes vs. Vampiro

AJ Styles vs. Steve Corino

Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. True Heroes

Jamie Knoble vs. Mike Awesome

Billy Kidman vs. TAKA

What will be match of the night?- Steiner/DDP

How many championships will change hands?- 1

Happy0wns · January 24, 2017

Fan Scorecard:

Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©}

Winner receives the UFS World Championship prize: Sting vs. Booker T

Dustin Rhodes vs. Vampiro

AJ Styles vs. Steve Corino

Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. True Heroes

Jamie Knoble vs. Mike Awesome

Billy Kidman vs. TAKA

What will be match of the night? DDP v Steiner

How many championships will change hands? 2

Superkickparty · January 24, 2017

Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©}

Winner receives the UFS World Championship prize: Sting vs. Booker T

Dustin Rhodes vs. Vampiro

AJ Styles vs. Steve Corino

Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. True Heroes

Jamie Knoble vs. Mike Awesome

Billy Kidman vs. TAKA

What will be match of the night? Booker T V Sting

How many championships will change hands? 2

rjhabeeb · January 24, 2017

Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship: Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Big Poppa Pump" Scott Steiner {©}

Winner receives the UFS World Championship prize: Sting vs. Booker T

Dustin Rhodes vs. Vampiro

AJ Styles vs. Steve Corino

Hugh Morrus and Konnan vs. True Heroes

Jamie Knoble vs. Mike Awesome

Billy Kidman vs. TAKA

What will be match of the night? Booker T vs Sting

How many championships will change hands? 2

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