WCW: Heart and Soul

[The Final Countdown]

<p>March 2002: Clash of the Champions Wrap-up</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/nUYCk9q.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>The sell-out of 13,500 we drew tonight in Brisbane is our biggest crowd since I relaunched the company in May of last year, and I bet it had been quite some time since the old WCW had drawn a house that big too. Obviously we'll be looking to make this Australia/New Zealand trip a pretty regular thing. I think we'll hold two PPVs a year here easily, if not three. </em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Buff didn't want to lose to the Hardys, but he was okay with it once I specified that Luger would be the one to take the fall. Lex voiced no complaint, which I found interesting considering his ego. Maybe he's grown more humble, or maybe he just realizes that I don't really want him here. He doesn't fit in our modern product and routinely stinks the joint up in the ring. But I know firing him would upset Sting, so I'm stuck with him for awhile. I do have an idea for a gimmick change that I think will be good for a laugh if nothing else, and the wheels should be set in motion on that soon.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> It was crucial that Candido get the win tonight, but I wasn't sure if I'd be able to get Flair to go along with it without his attitude going from simple irritation to genuine anger. He was absolutely furious with the idea at first, but I was eventually able to convince him that it was the right thing for the story (though the fact that the ending with Corino, Bischoff and Sytch all interfering protected him and kept him as strong as possible probably had something to do with changing his mind.)</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Vampiro has been mercilessly mocking Yang for his lack of push, and I'd had enough of it. I fined him, which seemed to make him pretty upset with me. Yang appreciated it though. Vampiro was also annoyed about losing to Kidman, but that was a decision I'd already made prior to this incident.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Some seemed to think that I used American Dragon too much on this show. He didn't have any non-wrestling segments, but he and TAKA did have a pretty long match.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> I praised RVD, Misterio and Douglas for their performances after the show. Really DDP deserved the same treatment for his own performance.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> I was surprised to see Jeff Hardy paying close attention to the pre-show battle royal, but I realized that he was focusing specifically on the winner of said battle royal, AJ Styles. He is clearly a huge fan of AJ's work and wants to work with him bad.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Dustin trashed the selling of Shawn Stasiak and said the kid needs to learn how to work. </em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Vampiro thinks Elix Skipper doesn't connect with the fans. He might have a point there, though it's not like Elix is being given anything of significance to do right now. Aside from that, I'm not in the mood to listen to any of Vampiro's suggestions or opinions at this point.</em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/sDkxtEI.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>There were a dizzying number of things that developed in NJPW over the past day. The biggest was their purchase of FMW. It wasn't a great surprise to hear that FMW was gone considering the recent Yakuza stories, but I'm surprised that New Japan would spend the money to purchase them considering their recent setback in falling to Cult.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> NJPW had the money to buy out FMW, but they couldn't find the money to pay their talent I guess. They went on a huge firing spree, terminating contracts left and right. Here's the complete list of everyone they released today:</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Nicho el Millonario (Psicosis)</em></p><p><em> Jado</em></p><p><em> Super Crazy</em></p><p><em> Gran Naniwa</em></p><p><em> Tetsuhiro Kuroda</em></p><p><em> Osamu Kido</em></p><p><em> Kengo Kimura</em></p><p><em> Yutaka Yoshie</em></p><p><em> Dick Togo</em></p><p><em> Super Boy</em></p><p><em> Silver King</em></p><p><em> Katsushi Takemura</em></p><p><em> Yoshiaki Fujiwawa</em></p><p><em> Damien 666</em></p><p><em> Hisakatsu Oya</em></p><p><em> MAZADA</em></p><p><em> Phil La Fon</em></p><p><em> Black Warrior</em></p><p><em> Jun Kasai</em></p><p><em> Ricky Fuji</em></p><p><em> Mitsuhiro Matsunaga</em></p><p><em> Daio QUALLT</em></p><p><em> Miguel Perez Jr.</em></p><p><em> El Pantera</em></p><p><em> Headhunter A</em></p><p><em> Simon Diamond</em></p><p><em> Maxx Justice</em></p><p><em> GOKU-DO</em></p><p><em> El Oriental</em></p><p><em> Tanomusaku Toba</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Wow. Talk about a spring cleaning. I could potentially bring in one or two of these guys, but I don't want to overdo it and let my roster get too much bigger than it already is. It'll be hard enough just to find time for our current roster, especially as we start to integrate more of our women into the programming.</em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/ebDwXEW.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>Dusty's got some problems in TCW: apparently New Jack is so pissed at head booker Dutch Mantell that he's made some serious threats towards him, and the local police have gotten involved. Considering who New Jack is, I don't think I'd show up to work anymore if I were Dirty Dutch.</em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <hr noshade size=3></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><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: 11)<p> </p><p> K-Nection: 10</p><p> Happy0wns: 10</p><p> franticloser: 10</p><p> </p><p> deanohbk: 9</p><p> Rateddc: 9</p><p> Wolfman84: 9</p><p> jscotty: 9</p><p> LordofGustav: 9</p><p> Dead_Jester: 9</p><p> Satyr24: 9</p><p> BHK6: 9</p><p> KnowYourEnemy: 9</p><p> Cro Cop Rules: 9</p><p> </p><p> evileddie10: 8</p><p> Beejus: 8</p><p> chrismday: 8</p><p> </p><p> Ian carlisle: 7</p><p> Warhawk8492: 7</p><p> crackerjack: 7</p><p> The Lariat: 7</p><p> Theheel: 7</p><p> </p><p> Uncrewed: 6</p><p> Briskout: 6</p><p> DGenerationMC: 6</p><p> GingeyOne: 6</p><p> Nobby_McDonald: 6</p><p> </p><p> michgcs: 5</p><p> smw88: 5</p><p> sportsfanmas: 5</p><p> </p><p> Kijar: 4</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Final Standings in prediction contest after 3 shows<p> </p><p> <strong>1. K-Nection: 31</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong> 2. Wolfman84: 30</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong> 3. deanohbk: 29</strong></p><p> </p><p> LordofGustav: 28</p><p> franticloser: 28</p><p> </p><p> crackerjack: 27</p><p> Dead_Jester: 27</p><p> Rateddc: 27</p><p> Cro Cop Rules: 27</p><p> </p><p> Warhawk8492: 26</p><p> Satyr24: 26</p><p> BHK6: 26</p><p> jscotty: 26</p><p> </p><p> GingeyOne: 25</p><p> Nobby_McDonald: 25</p><p> evileddie10: 25</p><p> chrismday: 25</p><p> Beejus: 25</p><p> </p><p> KnowYourEnemy: 24</p><p> Happy0wns: 24</p><p> </p><p> michgcs: 23</p><p> The Lariat: 23</p><p> </p><p> smw88: 22</p><p> DGenerationMC: 22</p><p> Briskout: 22</p><p> Uncrewed: 22</p><p> </p><p> sportsfanmas: 21</p><p> Theheel: 21</p><p> </p><p> Kijar: 19</p><p> </p><p> onewithsergio: 9</p><p> AMarc9-8: 9</p><p> SomeLazyMagic: 9</p><p> </p><p> 2Sweet: 8</p><p> </p><p> Ian carlisle: 7</p><p> </p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><p> Congrats to the top 3 finishers. I'll pm you for your prizes soon...once I actually figure out what they're going to be! <img alt=":eek:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/eek.png.0e09df00fa222c85760b9bc1700b5405.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Dead_Jester" data-cite="Dead_Jester" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Channels my inner Bobby Heenan: What are you talking about, I had complete faith in my guys from the very beginning. <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><p> <em>Sure.</em> Well, they're now into the finals despite your lack of faith! <img alt=":p" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> </p><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>I'm curious on why you are always turning my team members against each other ha ha! <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><p> Hey, YOU'RE the one who chose to have Booker and Sting fight each other for the world title shot! <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> (And then you just so happened to put RVD and Rey together, AND select them as the tiebreaker team, with me knowing I was going to have them main event the Clash. No way I could pass that one up. <img alt=":cool:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/cool.png.f00d2562b2c1d873a09323753efdb041.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />)</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Beejus" data-cite="Beejus" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><p> Shane Douglas - <em>I'm looking for a Kim turn here, as she gets involved to cost Page the match and also forces him out for 90 days.</em></p></div></blockquote><p> I considered this, and probably would've pulled the trigger if she'd had managerial chemistry with Douglas.</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Cro Cop Rules" data-cite="Cro Cop Rules" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><p> Also, Shane Douglas = Next world champ please <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p></div></blockquote><p> I wouldn't have given this much chance when the diary started, but he's really impressed me.</p><p> </p><p> </p><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>Here is 4 more loading screens for anyone who wants them....I feel these goes hand in hand with this era mod</div></blockquote><p> Awesome work! I added them into my folder right away. You're not only enhancing the diary with these posters; you're enhancing my own enjoyment with time-appropriate load screens too! <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="michgcs" data-cite="michgcs" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><p> Glad to see AmDrag excelling. Hopefully he feuds with Daniels which leads to a hair vs mask match? LOL I actually can't tell if Daniels still has hair from his pic.</p></div></blockquote><p> I think he's bald in that pic. He was already bald by this point in real life anyway, because he was bald before ROH opened.</p><p> </p><p> That reminds me...ROH should've opened by this point, but I haven't seen anything. <img alt=":confused:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/confused.png.d4a8e6b6eab0c67698b911fb041c0ed1.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>And the Alexis Laree pic doesn't look anything like Mickie James <img alt=":eek:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/eek.png.0e09df00fa222c85760b9bc1700b5405.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div></blockquote><p> That's definitely her; I've seen the picture it was cut from. It's just a time-appropriate picture. She looked quite a bit different by the time she made it up to WWE (not saying whether it was good or bad; just different.)</p><p> </p><p> </p><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><p> Lex maybe only useful for putting over midcarders at this point and he seems barely useful for that. Honestly if you ask me Buff deserves way better and should HBK his way out of that team lol.</p></div></blockquote><p> The problem there is that BOTH members of The Rockers were better than Buff Daddy ever was! <img alt=":eek:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/eek.png.0e09df00fa222c85760b9bc1700b5405.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Beejus" data-cite="Beejus" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div> I like michgs's idea of a two falls-two titles match, but I won't be surprised to see Mysterio dropping the US belt to Douglas soon. He's been on a real roll, and beating Page here in what I would assume almost has to end that feud must have put him over huge. There has to be gold in store for "The Franchise".</div></blockquote><p> It helped him, but not as much as you might think, at least not in the US. His popularity really didn't go up noticeably in the US, but he got nice gains in Australia and Japan. Hooray for big TV and PPV exposure! Is it any wonder I'm trying to run these two regions so much? </p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Interesting to see Corino "join" The Empire(?) It looks as though they at least have a common foe in Flair and now Sting, which is going to lead to a really good tag team match next month I would believe. As long as Sting makes sure Flair isn't going to swerve him like every other time!</div></blockquote><p> He is officially in The Empire, yes. I can see that might not have been made clear in the segment.</p>

[DGenerationMC]

<p>Really hope to see Super Crazy in WCW soon! Psicosis too! Hell, maybe even Simon Diamond.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

Kidding about that last one <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/wink.png.686f06e511ee1fbf6bdc7d82f6831e53.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p>

[K-Nection]

 

Awesome work! I added them into my folder right away. You're not only enhancing the diary with these posters; you're enhancing my own enjoyment with time-appropriate load screens too!

 

Oh well in that case....

 

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Booker%20T%20Loading%20Screen_zpshmsq5ynk.jpg

 

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Chris%20and%20Tammy%20Loading%20Screen_zpsywsrg5fk.jpg

 

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Lance%20Storm%20Loading%20Screen_zpsdnxnwasb.jpg

 

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Stacey%20Kiebler%20Loading%20Screen_zpspk72f1pq.jpg

 

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Torrie%20Wilson%20Loading%20Screen_zpsgv81hshb.jpg

[The Final Countdown]

<p>Spring 2002 Roster Update</p><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong>March 25th, 2002</strong></p><p><strong> 3:42 a.m. Australian time</strong></p></div><p></p><p> </p><p> No matter how much I tried to ignore it, the steady knock at my hotel room door would not go away. I put a pillow over my head to try and muffle the sound, but the pretty blonde Aussie girl sharing my bed for the night gave up on trying to sleep and got up to answer the door herself. I stayed where I was, but I did crack one eye open to enjoy the sight of her scantily clad body in motion.</p><p> </p><p> "Is Mr. Hart present?" I heard the voice (a woman) say once my companion opened the door. I sat up in bed and looked over to see that it was a hotel employee.</p><p> </p><p> "Is this really something that can't wait until the morning?" I asked, rubbing my eyes. She shook her head and smiled apologetically.</p><p> </p><p> "I'm sorry to disturb you, sir, but there is an incident between two of your employees in the hotel lobby. They're being restrained for now, but if it can't be resolved soon we will be forced to call the police. Mr. Rhodes suggested we come get you first."</p><p> </p><p> Great. "Just let me get dressed," I said, now much more alert. I picked up my jeans and shirt from the floor where I'd hurriedly discarded them last night (or did my lady friend do that?) and slipped them on, then followed the hotel staffer. I glanced back at my companion to suggest she get back to sleep, but she was already putting her own clothes back on. Clearly I would be returning to an empty room.</p><p> </p><p> A hallway and one flight of stairs later, and I saw quite a few of the boys gathered together. On one side of the lobby was Dallas Page, looking more furious than I'd ever seen him. Most of the boys were clustered around him, so obviously he was the one they were worried about. On the other side of the lobby stood CM Punk, looking sheepish.</p><p> </p><p> "I asked for an 8:00 am wakeup call. There better be a damn good reason I'm out of my bed at quarter to four," I said, my voice rough from both tiredness and frustration.</p><p> </p><p> DDP proceeded to explain the situation. I won't attempt to quote him directly, because if I were to clean up the foul language it wouldn't really be a sentence. The point was made loud (VERY loud) and clear though: Kimberly was leaving him, and she and CM Punk were now a thing. DDP of course wanted to rip the kid's head off, and I can't say I blamed him. I obviously couldn't allow that though. </p><p> </p><p> "Page, you were due to go on vacation after tomorrow's Nitro anyway. Let's just start that vacation early. We'll pay for a ticket for you on the first plane back to the States." Dallas wasn't too happy about that idea.</p><p> </p><p> "You're sendin' me home and you aren't doing a thing to this little piece of..." Well, you get the gist of it.</p><p> </p><p> "It's not a punishment, Dallas," I said. "I obviously can't trust you guys to be in the same building right now, and you were already going home for a bit after the end of your program with Shane Douglas."</p><p> </p><p> "And Punk? What about him?" he snarled.</p><p> </p><p> "What do you want me to do to him?" I asked. "I know you're pissed. I would be too. I'd want to tear him apart if I were you. But this is a personal issue, not a professional one. He hasn't done anything I can punish him for."</p><p> </p><p> Dallas was still angry. Again, I'm not going to try and sift through the curses to get to the few phrases that wouldn't set off the censors. Basically, he said he wasn't going to leave the hotel before knocking Punk out.</p><p> </p><p> "Dallas, if you knock Punk out right now you're going to jail. It'll also be a big story, both back home and here in Australia. You wanna risk hurting our reputation over here, especially after the night we just had? You love WCW as much as anybody. Don't let your personal life drag the company down."</p><p> </p><p> That seemed to break through, at least to a degree. He was still angry, naturally, but he left the hotel without further incident, saving us from a very unwanted headline story that no doubt would've been exploited the next night on Raw. The boys began to disperse, and I returned to my room. </p><p> </p><p> The company was saved from embarrassment, but my bed was now cold and empty. The things I do for this business.</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><p> <hr noshade size=3></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>Spring 2002 Roster Breakdown: (Faces in </strong><strong><span style="color:#0000FF;">blue</span></strong><strong>, heels in </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF0000;">red)</span></strong><strong> </strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Main Event:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Diamond Dallas Page</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Ric Flair</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Rob Van Dam (World Heavyweight Champion)</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Sting</strong></span></p><p> </p><p> <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Booker T</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Buff Bagwell</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Lex Luger</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Mortis</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Rick Steiner</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Scott Steiner</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Shane Douglas</strong></span></p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Upper Midcard:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Brian Adams</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Bryan Clark</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Chuck Palumbo</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Hugh Morrus</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Jeff Hardy</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Rey Misterio Jr. (United States Heavyweight Champion)</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Sean O'Haire</strong></span></p><p> </p><p> <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Chris Candido</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Lance Storm (World Tag Team Champion)</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> The Destroyer</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> The Unnatural</strong></span></p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Midcard:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>AJ Styles</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Alex Wright</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Billy Kidman</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Ernest Miller</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Konnan</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Matt Hardy</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Norman Smiley</strong></span></p><p> </p><p> <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Chavo Guerrero Jr.</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> CM Punk (World Tag Team Champion)</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Disco Inferno</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Fit Finlay</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> King Corino</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Mark Jindrak</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Shane Helms</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Shawn Stasiak</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> TAKA (Cruiserweight Champion)</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Vampiro</strong></span></p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Lower Midcard:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>American Dragon</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Big Vito</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Jamie Knoble</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Johnny the Bull</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Yang</strong></span></p><p> </p><p> <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Cash</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Elix Skipper</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Kaz Hayashi</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Mike Sanders</strong></span></p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Opener:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Jason Jett</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> M.I. Smooth</strong></span></p><p> </p><p> <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Alan Funk</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Evan Karagis</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Shannon Moore</strong></span></p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Enhancement Talent:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Air Paris </strong></span></p><p> </p><p> <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Christopher Daniels</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Flash Flanagan</strong></span> </p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Occasional Wrestler:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Jim Duggan</strong></span></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Women's Division:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Alexis Laree</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Madusa</strong></span></p><p> </p><p> <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Etsuko Mita (World Women's Champion)</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong> Takako Inoue</strong></span></p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Announcer:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Mike Tenay</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Tony Schiavone</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> </strong></span></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Color Commentator:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Bret Hart</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Don West</strong></span></p><p> </p><p> <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Bobby Heenan</strong></span></p><p> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Road Agent:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Dusty Rhodes</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Ricky Steamboat</strong></span></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Personality:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong>Arn Anderson</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Gene Okerlund</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#0000FF;"><strong> Roddy Piper</strong></span></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">On Vacation:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <strong>Road Warrior Animal</strong></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Active Tag Teams:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <strong>3 Count</strong> <em>(Evan Karagis and Shannon Moore)</em></p><p> <strong>Doomsday </strong><em>(Brian Adams and Bryan Clark)</em></p><p> <strong>Mark Jindrak and Shawn Stasiak</strong></p><p> <strong>The Natural Born Thrillers </strong><em>(Sean O'Haire and Chuck Palumbo)</em></p><p> <strong>The Hardys </strong><em>(Jeff Hardy and Matt Hardy)</em></p><p> <strong>The Mamalukes </strong><em>(Johnny the Bull and Big Vito)</em></p><p> <strong>True Heroes </strong><em>(CM Punk and Lance Storm)</em> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Factions:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <strong>Salvation </strong><em>(Father Isaac, Mortis, The Destroyer, The Unnatural and Vampiro)</em></p><p> <strong>The Empire </strong><em>(Chris Candido, Eric Bischoff, Etsuko Mita, King Corino, TAKA and Tammy Sytch)</em> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Managerial Assignments:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <strong>Eric Bischoff </strong><em>(King Corino, TAKA and Etsuko Mita)</em></p><p> <strong>Father Isaac </strong><em>(Mortis, The Destroyer and The Unnatural)</em></p><p> <strong>Kimberly Page </strong><em>(None)</em></p><p> <strong>Midajah </strong><em>(Scott Steiner)</em></p><p> <strong>Miss Jones </strong><em>(Ernest Miller)</em></p><p> <strong>Stacy Keibler </strong><em>(Kaz Hayashi)</em></p><p> <strong>Tammy Sytch </strong><em>(Chris Candido)</em></p><p> <strong>Torrie Wilson </strong><em>(Billy Kidman))</em> </p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">In Developmental:</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> <strong>Allison Danger</strong></p><p><strong> Boby Roode</strong></p><p><strong> Brian Kendrick</strong></p><p><strong> Cheerleader Melissa</strong></p><p><strong> Chris Harris</strong></p><p><strong> Colt Cabana</strong></p><p><strong> Daffney</strong></p><p><strong> David Flair</strong></p><p><strong> Harry Smith</strong></p><p><strong> James Storm</strong></p><p><strong> Johnny Parisi</strong></p><p><strong> Kaoru Ito</strong></p><p><strong> Kid Romeo</strong></p><p><strong> Lacey</strong></p><p><strong> Lash Leroux</strong></p><p><strong> LuFisto</strong></p><p><strong> Manami Toyota</strong></p><p><strong> Mercedes Martinez</strong></p><p><strong> Momoe Nakanishi</strong></p><p><strong> Nattie Neidhart</strong></p><p><strong> Paul London</strong></p><p><strong> Reno</strong></p><p><strong> Teddy Hart</strong></p><p><strong> TJ Wilson</strong></p><p><strong> Tony Mamaluke</strong></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><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;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="font-size:18px;">Creative Meeting:</span></span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Franchise Players:</span></p><p> 1. Booker T</p><p> 2. Sting</p><p> 3. Scott Steiner</p><p> 4. Ric Flair</p><p> 5. Rob Van Dam</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Next Big Things:</span></p><p> 1. Jeff Hardy</p><p> 2. CM Punk</p><p> 3. AJ Styles</p><p> 4. Alexis Laree</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Hot Prospects:</span></p><p> 1. American Dragon</p><p> 2. AJ Styles</p><p> 3. Johnny the Bull</p><p> 4. CM Punk</p><p> 5. Alexis Laree</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Talk the Talk:</span></p><p> 1. Ric Flair</p><p> 2. Roddy Piper</p><p> 3. Dusty Rhodes</p><p> 4. Booker T</p><p> 5. Diamond Dallas Page</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Show Stoppers:</span></p><p> 1. Rey Misterio Jr.</p><p> 2. Jeff Hardy</p><p> 3. Rob Van Dam</p><p> 4. Booker T</p><p> 5. CM Punk</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Ring Generals:</span></p><p> 1. Rey Misterio Jr.</p><p> 2. Lance Storm</p><p> 3. American Dragon</p><p> 4. King Corino</p><p> 5. Ric Flair</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Who's Hot:</span></p><p> 1. Fit Finlay</p><p> 2. AJ Styles</p><p> 3. TAKA</p><p> 4. King Corino</p><p> 5. Chris Candido</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Who's Not:</span></p><p> 1. Jim Duggan</p><p> 2. Mike Sanders</p><p> 3. Ernest Miller</p><p> 4. Big Vito</p><p> 5. Johnny the Bull</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Time Decline:</span></p><p> 1. Ric Flair</p><p> 2. Lex Luger</p><p> 3. Jim Duggan</p><p> 4. Sting</p><p> 5. Diamond Dallas Page</p><p> </p><p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Hidden Gems:</span></p><p> 1. Yoshihiro Tajiri</p><p> 2. Jay Briscoe</p><p> 3. Trent Acid</p><p> 4. Scoot Andrews</p><p> 5. Lizzy Valentine</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><p> <hr noshade size=3></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> So before anyone asks: no, the Punk/Kimberly thing was not due to any oversight with the mod like the Lita/Shane McMahon story. In this case, Wolfman84 decided to be a troublemaker and use his prediction prize to create a dating relationship between Punk and Kim. <img alt=":eek:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/eek.png.0e09df00fa222c85760b9bc1700b5405.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> I then changed DDP and Kimberly's relationship to Divorced, and also created hatred between DDP and Punk as the logical fallout.</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="DGenerationMC" data-cite="DGenerationMC" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Really hope to see Super Crazy in WCW soon! Psicosis too! Hell, maybe even Simon Diamond.<p> </p><p> Kidding about that last one <img alt=";)" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/wink.png.686f06e511ee1fbf6bdc7d82f6831e53.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p></div></blockquote><p> How dare you mock Simon Diamond!</p><p> </p><p> ...But yeah, his skills are pretty mediocre. I thought he was decent, but I wouldn't expect him in WCW.</p><p> </p><p> </p><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>Oh well in that case....</div></blockquote><p> You're on a roll!</p><p> </p><p> I was a very big fan of that Torrie Wilson poster as a teenager...</p>

[Kijar]

Completely bombed. <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

[K-Nection]

I was tempted to start a CM Punk and Stephanie relationship with my prize but I thought it would be too game breaking lol!

[The Final Countdown]

<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>I was tempted to start a CM Punk and Stephanie relationship with my prize but I thought it would be too game breaking lol!</div></blockquote><p> Yeah, I would've declined that one.</p>

[LordofGustav]

I love how do you develop what's going on behind the scenes.

[KnowYourEnemy]

<p><strong>Observing Wrestling January 2002: The Big Boys Return to WCW</strong></p><p> </p><p>

WCW Clash of the Champions was unlike any other PPV in wrestling history. Held in Brisbane, Australia, the show produced two Match of the Year competitors: Diamond Dallas Page vs. Shane Douglas in an I Quit Match, and Rey Mysterio vs. Rob Van Dam in a World Title Tilt. The main event delivered beyond anything else this year -- despite going to a no-contest, interference and being a face-vs-face matchup, many immediately praised the Brisbane, Australia match.</p><p> </p><p>

From our vantage, the match in-ring was the best any promotion put forward this year. Had it been held in the States or ended cleanly, it would be undisputed the best match. </p><p> </p><p>

Bret's finish, in hindsight, was genius. With neither Rey or Van Dam going over, we get set up for a rematch on the card. But what will the future hold? Will Robbie V. and Rey-Rey feud over his World... or Rey's United States Title? With the heat and match quality, the WCW doesn't really need the World Title in the feud. </p><p> </p><p>

And what about Booker T? If he ends up in a triple threat, it would extend the feud, but it also would drag down the match.</p><p> </p><p>

We at Observing Wrestling think the Book-end should take the World strap, and elevate it on television. With the UFS rounding up, he'll have a ready-made challenger waiting. Rey and RVD have become the new Steamer and Flair, and their feud can headline without a strap attached. </p><p> </p><p>

In fact, a ladder match probably would go over great with the WCW crowd wherever they globetrot next. </p><p> </p><p>

However, there are some clouds on the WCW Horizon. For starters, the Main Event lacks over, capable faces. Could we see a turn in the future? And how? We're keeping an eye on The Natural Born Thrillers. With the losses mounting up, will one thriller turn? Or maybe the team go there separate ways? The crowd has gotten behind Chuck Palumbo. Does he have what it takes to challenge for either the U.S. or the World Title? He looked strong in a loss to True Heroes at the Clash. </p><p> </p><p>

Match of the Year (So Far): Rob Van Dam drew with Rey Mysterio Jr. after Booker T got involved, A, at WCW Presents Clash of the Champions</p><p>

Dud of the Year (So Far): Chris Candido d. Ric Flair, C+, at WCW Presents Clash of the Champions</p><p> </p><p>

Observing Wrestling "Impact Player" for WCW [spring 2001]: <strong>Shane Douglas. </strong>He's been called "The Franchise", "The Dean" and "Dog Food" but the former Champion of Extreme has turned in quality performance after quality performance. His excellent match which saw him beat DDP in a thriller caught our attention at Clash of the Champions -- DDP seemed over-the-hill for several months, and "The Franchise" dragged him to a classic. Will Dean O' Douglas turn face? With his UFS team "The Dead Jesters" headed into the finals, we think he could be on his way to a program with the World Champion -- a classic way to turn a challenger face.</p>

[Briskout]

New baby means I've been missing the boards so seeing your Clash (and the fact I'm booking mine tonight/tomorrow morning) was exciting. As usual I sat in the middle of the pack for predictions which means our booking styles are really different, which is great. I love the show, I love the fact we might get Booker/RVD/Rey, I love that Dustin Rhodes/Steiner teaser... It was such a great show. And the post show chaos added to the drama of a GREAT show. So the number to beat is 13.5k by Spring 2002?

[jscotty]

Sooooo......potential DDP/Punk feud in the future?

[Wolfman84]

Troublemaker? Me?

[The Final Countdown]

...Anybody wanna hop into the game for one night only and run WrestleMania? I swear to God, I can't take the AI's stupid booking, not on this show. I've simulated it three times and they haven't put Austin in a match once. <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/rolleyes.png.4b097f4fbbe99ce5bcd5efbc1b773ed6.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

[K-Nection]

<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>...Anybody wanna hop into the game for one night only and run WrestleMania? I swear to God, I can't take the AI's stupid booking, not on this show. I've simulated it three times and they haven't put Austin in a match once. <img alt=":rolleyes:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/rolleyes.png.4b097f4fbbe99ce5bcd5efbc1b773ed6.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> I'll do it...heck if you want I'll run the big 4 every time so it could at least look like they are trying lol.</p>

[Briskout]

I would love to do it if need be. I have the data already + I'm running into a mini block with my next show so can use a brief break. Can even do a write up / anything else needed.

[Wolfman84]

The last two post are proof that not all heroes wear capes.

[KnowYourEnemy]

<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>I'll do it...heck if you want I'll run the big 4 every time so it could at least look like they are trying lol.</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> On board with this idea.</p>

[Rateddc]

<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>...Anybody wanna hop into the game for one night only and run WrestleMania? I swear to God, I can't take the AI's stupid booking, not on this show. I've simulated it three times and they haven't put Austin in a match once. <img alt=":rolleyes:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/rolleyes.png.4b097f4fbbe99ce5bcd5efbc1b773ed6.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> This totally needs to be a prediction prize, maybe even for each of the big 4.</p>

[K-Nection]

This totally needs to be a prediction prize, maybe even for each of the big 4.

 

In that case that would still be me because I won the last one....

[Rateddc]

In that case that would still be me because I won the last one....

 

Showoff.

[K-Nection]

Showoff.

 

 

[Briskout]

Then I'll never do it :'(

[The Final Countdown]

So since there were two people who volunteered, I decided the fairest thing would be to flip a coin. It came up in Briskout's favor, and I've sent him a copy of the save. Check your PMs if you haven't already, Briskout.

 

The Observing Wrestling staff continue to do great work. Someone may want to tell them that we're now in 2002 rather than 2001 though.

 

I love how do you develop what's going on behind the scenes.

Glad you're enjoying it! That's honestly one of the most fun aspects of this diary for me.

 

New baby means I've been missing the boards so seeing your Clash (and the fact I'm booking mine tonight/tomorrow morning) was exciting. As usual I sat in the middle of the pack for predictions which means our booking styles are really different, which is great. I love the show, I love the fact we might get Booker/RVD/Rey, I love that Dustin Rhodes/Steiner teaser... It was such a great show. And the post show chaos added to the drama of a GREAT show. So the number to beat is 13.5k by Spring 2002?

We're definitely going in different directions, which is fun. Sure wish I could swipe Eddie Guerrero in MY game though! Then again I do have the Hardys, and Jeff seems like he's poised to be one of the two or three biggest stars in the entire world in a few years.

 

Sooooo......potential DDP/Punk feud in the future?

We shall see.

 

Troublemaker? Me?

Yes, you, Mr. Stinson.

 

The last two post are proof that not all heroes wear capes.

I guess it's good we have them around to counteract your villainy then!

 

This totally needs to be a prediction prize, maybe even for each of the big 4.

This is what I'm thinking as well, though I might leave Survivor Series out and just make it Rumble, Mania and Summerslam. Mania could become one of the options in the January-March prediction contest, Summerslam can go in the April-June contest, and the Rumble can be a consolation prize for whoever just misses the cut for the UFS (or I could even leave the option open in case anyone in the top 8 would rather book the Rumble, and their UFS spot could then go to whoever wound up finishing #9.)

[K-Nection]

<p>Here is some more loading screens!</p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Etsuko%20Mita%20Loading%20Screen_zpsqj3xeobj.jpg</span></p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/James%20Mitchell%20Loading%20Screen_zpssnfejt1d.jpg</span></p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Kimberly%20Page%20Loading%20Screen_zpscqugwlin.jpg</span></p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Madusa%20Loading%20Screen_zpsomk9k5pw.jpg</span></p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/kevincumpton/Ric%20Flair%20Loading%20Screen_zpseupegkdi.jpg</span></p>

[Briskout]

<p>So that was fun. </p><p> </p><p>

</p><p><img alt="20120415194311logo-wm18.jpg" data-src="https://ballsandbrawls.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/20120415194311logo-wm18.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

The RantReview for WWE Wrestlemania X-8 – 03.31.02</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

Live from Montreal, Quebec</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

Your hosts are Jim Ross and Tazz</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-The show is being styled as “X-8.” </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-Show starts with Saliva playing Superstar… Glad to have bought this pay per view just to see this for five minutes, I guess I can go to sleep now.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-Next up is a video package with different wrestlers reminiscing about what WrestleMania means to them.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-Opening match, </div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>Chris Benoit & Chris Jericho v. William Regal & Eddie Guerrero</strong></div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">.This sets the standard pretty high for the rest of the show as the four men who should be nearing the main event, find themselves much like they did prior to leaving WCW: aimless. Benoit and Regal start and exchange hold after hold before Guerrero does the same with Benoit, tag to Jericho and the pace quickens. The pace slows back down with Regal however. Crowd going back and forth between all four men and it’s Regal who manages to pull the victory when he connects with the Power of the Punch on Benoit for the win.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-</div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>European Title Match, Spike Dudley v. Mr. Perfect</strong></div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">. This is a glorified squash match as Perfect, who had been pretty relegated to a veteran hang up role as of late, manages to tap into the glimpse of what made him so great in the last decade. As Tazz put it, “the swagger was back” and Perfect makes quick work of Spike finishing him off in under 6 minutes for his first European title reign.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-In one of the strangest decisions of the night, </div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>Funaki defeated Jerry Lynn for the Light Heavyweight belt.</strong></div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> The crowd saw this as somewhat of a bathroom break though and missed a good display of wrestling between Lynn and Funaki. Funaki came away when he hit the Fisherman Buster which means in the two top US promotions, two members of Kai En Tai hold their lightweight belts. Interesting.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-</div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>Hardcore Battle Royal</strong></div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> time as it was weapons galore. Paul Heyman joined the announce team for this one. 29 men and Chyna were involved as was a ton of weapons. Kane, as he tends to do, eliminated the majority and the final four were Tommy Dreamer, the Hardcore champ, Rhyno, Kane and Jake “the Snake” Roberts. The attempt to eliminate Kane by the other three was backfired when Jake turned on Dreamer quickly, meaning there’d be a new Hardcore champion. Robert was next as he was unceremoniously dumped by Kane who turned around into the GORE - GORE - GORE of Rhyno, giving us a new Hardcore champion!</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-In a quickly shocking maneuver, Paul Heyman jumped into the ring the ECW title as referee Jim Korderas was handing Rhyno the Hardcore title. Rhyno threw the Hardcore title on the ground as Paul Heyman declared that men like Rhyno weren’t hardcore, they were EXTREME and declared that Rhyno was once again the REIGNING AND DEFENDING ECW World Champion!</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

</div></div></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/001/555/658/Rhino2_display_image.jpg?1321208483</span></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-</div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>TLC III was ready to take place as Too Cool defended the tag titles against the APA, T&A and Edge & Christian.</strong></div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> While team E&C was definite favorites in this bout, they were facing brutes in both T&A and the APA and perhaps it was this brutality, or the lack of scouting, or even the fact it was a four team TLC but Edge and Christian, who went 2-0 in the previous TLC matches, fell short and instead it was T&A who came out on top after 17 minutes of brutal action.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

</div></div></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://www.wwe.com/f/styles/wwe_16_9_s/public/video/thumb/2012/09/889-20020317_wm18_hall_USE.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-The next match showed that Scott Hall was still struggling with demons as </div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>Hall lost to Steve Austin</strong></div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> in what should have been a great match but was rushed due to Hall’s condition forcing Steve Austin and referee Tim White to improvise much of the ending to keep Hall safe.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-Another bathroom break as </div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>Jacqueline quickly handled Ivory to win the WWF Women’s title.</strong></div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-Backstage, The Rock was interviewed by Kevin Kelly and promised that tonight against three other men, the Rock would walk out on top with the WWF belt. Kurt Angle interrupted and reminded Rock that he was the milk drinking, son of a gun that would end the reign of Bubba Ray Dudley. The two faces had a brief staredown before going their separate ways.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

</div></div></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://wrestlersbioa.weebly.com/uploads/8/6/8/1/8681413/7471553_orig.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-Number one contender’s match as another multiman match came up as </div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>Big Show defeated Triple H and The Undertaker</strong></div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> after hitting both with a chokeslam. Jim Ross makes a big deal out of the loss, noting it’s the first time Undertaker suffered defeat WrestleMania.</div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

</div></div></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="912936a157c2647ec9c0cd3cfad6b13a.png" data-src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/91/29/36/912936a157c2647ec9c0cd3cfad6b13a.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-</div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>Billy Gunn marked another title change as he lost his Intercontinental title to Rikishi in 5 minutes.</strong></div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

</div></div></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="wrestlemania-18-the-rock-and-hollywood-hogan1.jpg?resize=642%2C361" data-src="https://i2.wp.com/lylesmoviefiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/wrestlemania-18-the-rock-and-hollywood-hogan1.jpg?resize=642%2C361" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

-In the main event, </div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>Hollywood Hogan won the fourway dance pinning Bubba Ray Dudley after hitting the leg drop.</strong></div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> This match was hot for the crowd, but the crowd couldn’t overcome the fact that Dudley was the champion and it dragged away from the fact that Hogan, Angle and the Rock were involved in the match. As Hogan posed with fellow heels Mr. Perfect & Scott Hall, Jim Ross expressed it best </div></div></div></div><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><strong>”this was supposed to be WrestleMania damn it!”</strong></div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"> </div></div></div></div><p></p><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;"><div style="margin-left:25px;">

Overall the show fell flat. The heel antics of Hogan, Perfect and Hall were minimum really but well aware. Whether the Federation takes action against Hall is yet to be seen as he was clearly drunk, but otherwise it just felt flat. The best match of the night (the opening tag match) set the stage for a great match moving forward but everything else sort of seemed iffy at best. Last year’s WrestleMania set the stage for another great show this year and with the return of Hogan and Hall, matches like Hogan vs. Austin, Hogan vs. Rock, Hogan vs. HHH were all possible as well as Hall against the same people, but instead we saw a drunk Scott Hall, a really bad main event (thanks to both booking decisions tonight and booking decisions leading into the show) and strange set up moving forward, after Mania (with Big Show winning a number one contender’s match). There were some highlights of the night still. The tag match was phenomenal, some of the undercard pushes coming were great such as Test & Albert gaining their first tag titles and Rhyno reclaiming the ECW title could be interesting, but this felt more like Backlash than WrestleMania and may go down as one of the worst WrestleManias in WWF history.</div></div></div></div>