WCW: Heart and Soul

[Satyr24]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. <strong>"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. <strong>"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? <strong>King Corino vs. Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>0</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): <strong>Eddie Guerrero, Nigel McGuinness & Sabu</strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>Scott Steiner</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>CM Punk</strong></p><p>

The Final Four: <strong>DDP, CM Punk, Eddie Guerrero and The Unnatural</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>DDP</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points):<strong>Eddie Guerrero</strong></p>

[kinnikuniverse]

<p>Rey-rey. This feud is amazing!</p><p> </p><p>

Goldberg. Sucks that sting is in time decline. Oh well, WHO'S NEXT?</p><p> </p><p>

Hardyz. I agree with the other guy, they should split up for the good of the division</p><p> </p><p>

AJ. A much needed break for him after those awesome matches against storm and rey.</p><p> </p><p>

O'haire. Sorry dave, but your time has passed.</p><p> </p><p>

Hayabusa vs AmDrag: WCW: WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE! Srsly though, really hard to choose...flipped a coin, landed on Danielson. </p><p> </p><p>

MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Surprise entrants: eddie guerrero ( could feud with punk over his drug issues), ric flair and THE SHOCK MASTER!!!!</p><p> </p><p>

Most eliminations: destroyer. Mike was a beast, and it should reflect that in the match. Also to make salvation look good.</p><p> </p><p>

Longest time in the match: CM punk</p><p> </p><p>

Final four: the unnatural, eddie guerrero, CM punk and Destroyer</p><p> </p><p>

Runner-up: CM punk</p><p> </p><p>

Winner: eddie guerrero.</p><p> </p><p>

Match of the night: Corino Vs rey</p><p> </p><p>

Title changes: 0</p>

[Danny_H22]

<p>Fan Scorecard:</p><p> </p><p>

World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr.</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p>

I toyed with the idea of Austin costing Goldberg the match, but he can’t lose this early into his return</p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys </strong>{©}</p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. "<strong>The Phenomenal" AJ Styles</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs.<strong> "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? Rey Corino</p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) 0</p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): angle, Stevie Ray, hacksaw </p><p>

Most eliminations: The Destroyer </p><p>

Longest time in match: Lance Storm</p><p>

The Final Four: Storm, Punk, RVD, Kurt Angle</p><p>

Runner up: Storm</p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): Angle</p><p> </p><p>

General diary comments/questions/critiques:</p><p> </p><p>

The new format is growing on me actually. Well done dude</p>

[ElectricX]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. <strong>"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. "<strong>American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? <strong>Corino/Mysterio</strong></p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>0</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): <strong>Steve Austin, Jeff Hardy, Sting</strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>Scott Steiner</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>CM Punk</strong></p><p>

The Final Four: <strong>Punk, RVD, Steve Austin, Unnatural</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>The Unnatrual</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>CM Punk</strong></p>

[JMike]

<p>Fan Scorecard:</p><p> </p><p>

World Heavyweight Championship: <strong>King Corino</strong> vs. Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}</p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. "The Phenomenal" <strong>AJ Styles {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. <strong>"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson </strong>{©}</p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? <strong>Corino/Mysterio</strong></p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>1</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): <strong>Kurt Angle, Steve Austin, Kenta Kobashi</strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>The Destroyer</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>CM Punk</strong></p><p>

The Final Four: <strong>Steve Austin, Kurt Angle, CM Punk, Lance Storn</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>Lance Storm</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>CM Punk</strong></p><p> </p><p>

General diary comments/questions/critiques: GOD DAMMIT JAMIE</p>

[crackerjack]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}</strong></p><p>

<em>Very back and forth on this. I think you reward Rey for re-signing and keep him with the strap. Unless Booker's out the door, I think he screws over Corino here.</em> <em><strong>EDIT: Whoops, didn't realize Booker T was gone-gone, not just in storyline. Screw it, Rey still retians</strong></em></p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p>

<em>C'mon</em></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys {©}</strong></p><p>

<em>Italy may be a pet project for you, but the Hardys are the Hardys</em></p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: <strong>Chuck Palumbo</strong> vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}</p><p>

<em>Gives us Chuck/O'Haire after Sean defends</em></p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire {©}</strong></p><p>

<em>See above</em></p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. <strong>"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? <strong>Corino/Rey</strong></p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>0</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): <strong>Eddie Guerrero, Samoa Joe, Nakamura</strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>Destroyer</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>Storm</strong></p><p>

The Final Four:<strong>Unnatural, Punk, Storm, Eddie</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>CM Punk</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>Eddie</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Going for the home-run here. But if you got Eddie/Rey for the belt at Starcade, there's tons of history there to build off of. Even if I don't love the idea of a WWE-guy getting the biggest match on the biggest show of the year.</em></p><p> </p><p>

General diary comments/questions/critiques:</p>

[Kijar]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. <strong>"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. <strong>"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? Corino/Mysterio</p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) 0</p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): <strong>Eddie Guerrero, Glacier, Jushin Thunder Liger</strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>The Destroyer</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>RVD</strong></p><p>

The Final Four: <strong>RVD, EG, Punk, Storm</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>RVD</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>EG</strong></p>

[Theheel]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr.</strong> {©}</p><p>

<strong>Rey just signed a contract extension so I don’t see as his reward in staying a title loss. I love Corino’s character though and it would be interesting storyline wise if he got the title for the </strong><strong><em>EMPIRE</em></strong><strong> </strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Sting</strong> vs. Bill Goldberg</p><p>

<strong>To me this one screams payback. Goldberg cost Austin a match at last months PPV, so I see Austin returning the favor here to give Sting the upset win</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys</strong> {©}</p><p>

<strong>I just don’t see MII in the World Title class yet, but knowing how Bret likes to keep us guessing maybe a switch here......naw</strong></p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}</p><p>

<strong>Can’t see the Marty Jannetty of the WCW tag team split beating AJ. </strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire</strong> {©}</p><p>

<strong>O’Haire retains the title for win #10 but on Nitro tomorrow declines the US title shot (unless there is a huge upset and Palumbo wins) so that he can get 5 more wins and get a World Title Match.</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. "<strong>American Dragon" Bryan Danielson </strong>{©}</p><p>

<strong>could steal MOTN</strong></p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? <strong>Several choices but if everyone is on their game I don’t see any topping Rey vs King Corino</strong></p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>Zero, nada, zilch, 0 I don’t see any titles changing hands here</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Sheldon Benjamin, The a Great Muta and Kurt Angle, </p><p>

Most eliminations: The Unnatural </p><p>

Longest time in match: RVD</p><p>

The Final Four: Punk, Scott Steiner, UnNatural and DDP</p><p>

Runner up: Unnatural </p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>I’m going with C.M. Punk, although it is probably the easy choice and Bret likes to tinker with things so they are not so obvious </strong></p><p> </p><p>

General diary comments/questions/critiques: <strong>Now that we are 2 game months with the new format, I’m going to surprise myself and say I like it. At first I was very skeptical but in looking at it, I think it works pretty good and if it’s easier for you to keep going with it like this then I’m all for it</strong></p>

[deanohbk]

<p>Corino</p><p>

Goldbergs</p><p>

Hardys</p><p>

AJ</p><p>

O'Haire</p><p>

Danielson</p><p> </p><p>

Rey v corino</p><p>

1</p><p>

Eddie Jericho Neidart</p><p>

Unnatural</p><p>

CM</p><p>

CM Jericho Eddie Unnatural</p><p>

Jericho</p><p>

Eddie</p>

[smartman]

<p>Sting: "Sure, I'll be Goldberg's first victim. It's at Mayhem so I'll be able to bring my baseball bat and use that, right?"</p><p> </p><p>

Bret: "No, that's just the name of the PPV and Royal Rumble rip-off match. So, no you can't use the bat."</p><p> </p><p>

Sting: "But the name of the PPV is Mayhem, surely the fans will expect it..."</p><p> </p><p>

Bret: "No! He'll likely grab it and end your career too <span style="font-size:10px;">(which I should be doing soon)</span>."</p><p> </p><p>

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

Can't wait for the new WWE signing to be the last elimination. Unless it is Eddie, who would likely be a face and win.</p>

[DGenerationMC]

I have no idea who the WWE signing could be and it's really bugging me. Decided to just give up and say it's Benoit.

[chrismday]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr.</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. <strong>"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}</strong></p><p><strong>

</strong></p><p>

World Television Championship: <strong>Fit Finlay</strong> vs. Sean O'Haire {©}</p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs.<strong> "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? <strong>Corino/Mysterio</strong></p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>1</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): <strong>Aja Kong, Jim Duggan, Chris Jericho</strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>The Destroyer</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>RVD</strong></p><p>

The Final Four: <strong>DDP, Jericho, Punk, Unnatural</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>Punk</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>Unnatural</strong></p>

[K-Nection]

I personally have Eddie coming in as a heel. I personally feel like aside from Salvation and The Empire, there aren't a lot of strong heel challengers for Rey's title.

 

As long as they don't fight for custody of Dominic in a ladder match I'm fine with that feud

[Dead_Jester]

World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}

-Went back and forth on this one a lot, figure that Corino wins it, drops it to Austin down the line and we get Austin vs. Goldberg at Starrcade.

 

Sting vs. Bill Goldberg

-Yeah it sucks to see Sting as a glorified JTTS but meh, whatcha gonna do?

 

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. The Hardys {©}

-If anyone takes the belts of the Hardy's I'm expecting it to be the Unbound.

 

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}

-Gambling big on this one, theory is Palumbo wins and serves as a transitional champion for O'Haire.

 

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. Sean O'Haire {©}

-See Above.

 

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}

-Can't see Bryan dropping the Title in rapid fashion twice.

 

What will be match of the night?

Rey vs. Corino

 

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count)

2

 

THE MAYHEM MATCH

 

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Angle, Jushin Thunder Liger and The Great Muta

Most eliminations: The Destroyer

Longest time in match: Lance Storm

The Final Four: Unnatural, CM Punk, Lance Storm and Shane Douglas

Runner up: Unnatural

Winner (worth 3 points): CM Punk

 

General diary comments/questions/critiques: This is a tough one to predict in spots, really looking forward to how this plays out.

[Beejus]

King Corino - Yep, I'm pulling for the challenger. He will make a great transitional champ to drop it to Austin in a month or two, which will then give Steve something to lure Goldberg into a match.

Goldberg - Looking strong.

Hardys - MII are more of a comedy team, they could get the belts in the future but the Hardys are the now.

Chuck Palumbo - I'm agreeing with Dead Jester, Chucky wins it here so he can lose it to O'Haire.

Sean O'Haire

Bryan Danielson

 

MOTN: Rey vs Corino

Titles: 2

 

Mayhem Match

Mysteries: Guerrero, Sabu, and Dusty Rhodes

Eliminations: Scott Steiner

Longest: Shane Douglas

Final Four: Douglas, Scott Steiner, Unnatural, DDP

Runner up: Douglas

Winner: Scott Steiner

 

I feel like I'm completely out of whack with the Mayhem match, but I guess we shall see!

 

EDIT: Well I guess that means Davey Boy isn't gonna make a run in the Mayhem match...

[DavidCorperial]

World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}

 

Sting vs. Bill Goldberg

 

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. The Hardys {©}

 

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}

 

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. Sean O'Haire {©}

 

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}

 

What will be match of the night? Corino/Mysterio

 

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) 1

 

THE MAYHEM MATCH

 

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Aja Kong, Great Muta, Big Show

Most eliminations: The Destroyer

Longest time in match: RVD

The Final Four: Great Muta, Big Show, Punk, Unnatural

Runner up: Punk

Winner (worth 3 points): Unnatural

[K-Nection]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="James The Animator" data-cite="James The Animator" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><strong>Where the *censored* was Vickie?!</strong></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> One of the most memorable quotes uttered out of his mouth lol.</p>

[Wolfman84]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. <strong>"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. <strong>"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? <strong>King Corino vs. Rey Mysterio Jr.</strong></p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>None</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Chris Jericho,<strong> Jushin Thunder Liger, Nakamura</strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>Destroyer</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>CM Punk</strong></p><p>

The Final Four: <strong>CM Punk, Lance Storm, Chris Jericho & Rob Van Dam</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>Storm</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>CM Punk</strong></p>

[Rateddc]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr. </strong>{©}</p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. <strong>"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. <strong>"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? Corino vs. Mysterio</p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>0</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): <strong>Eddie Guerrero, Sabu, Jushin Thunder Liger</strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>The Destroyer</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>CM Punk</strong></p><p>

The Final Four: <strong>CM Punk, Lance Storm, Eddie Guerrero, The Unnatural</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>The Unnatural</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>Eddie Guerrero</strong></p>

[Spirophore]

<p>World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr.</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Bill Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. <strong>"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles </strong>{©}</p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. <strong>"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson</strong> {©}</p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night?</p><p>

Corino VS Mysterio</p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count)</p><p>

None</p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each):</p><p>

Most eliminations: Scott Steiner</p><p>

Longest time in match: RVD</p><p>

The Final Four: RVD, Steiner, CM Punk & DDP</p><p>

Runner up: Steiner</p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): RVD</p>

[The Final Countdown]

<p>May 2003: Pre-Mayhem News and Notes</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p> </p><span>http://i.imgur.com/sDkxtEI.jpg</span> </div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>For the past year or more, New Japan has been treading water at best. I think our own rise to being a national player in Japan might spell doom for the lion mark, because they're a distant third to us and WWE and the Japanese fans know it. They've been demoted to Cult status, and they've also accumulated big amounts of debt. I'm under the impression that Inoki would probably sell his assets off to us if I made him an offer, but I'm not sure if that's a worthwhile purchase for us.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Amidst all that, they ran their Wrestling Dontaku show on May 11th. New champion Riki Choshu was in the semi main, where he and Osamu Nishimura beat Koji Kanemoto and Hawk in a subpar tag team match. The main event was Manabu Nakanishi and Masahiro Chono retaining the Heavyweight tag titles over Tatsumi Fujinami and Satoshi Kojima in a good match. The runaway match of the night was El Samurai beating Jushin Liger in the midcard. This was a big improvement over last month's weak show, and more in line with what their big shows have been doing recently. 'Par for the course' isn't really what they need right now though. </em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p> </p><span>http://i.imgur.com/nUYCk9q.jpg</span> </div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>Unfortunately, Chris Kanyon tested positive for hard drugs. He was going to be in the Mayhem battle royal, but I made the decision to suspend him for a month and give his spot to someone else. He seemed to appreciate the tough love, because he told me he was very happy with the wake-up call and he would not let this happen again. I'd booked myself into a corner by previously ruling out several eligible replacements in "Mayhem qualifier" matches on Nitro. I could have always ignored it and slipped one of them back in, but I'd like to honor our stipulations as much as possible so they mean something. As a result I called up Brian Kendrick, who was just about ready to hit the main roster anyway, and debuted him with a win over Mike Lockwood (aka Crash Holly, who was with us for one night only) in a qualifier. </em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Davey Boy's contract expired. He's nowhere near being finished with his rehab, so obviously I wasn't going to continue paying him ten grand a month. We'll revisit it once he's out, but if I do bring him back it'll probably be a pay-per-appearance deal only.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Looking to boost their careers, Shane Douglas and Konnan have both bulked up and are looking more muscular. It certainly doesn't hurt Shane, but his spot was relatively secure anyway. For Konnan, though, this could make a big difference.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Some fans have been spreading around a picture of Sting taken after a show in which he looks pretty flabby. I guess it's inevitable as he enters his mid 40's, but still sad to see. </em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> I've signed Madison Eagles, a young Australian women's wrestler who has previously worked with us as an enhancement talent, to a developmental contract. Opportunities for her to gain experience were almost nonexistent in Australia, but she'll be working plenty now that she's in 5SSW.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Devil Masami signed a 1-year contract extension.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Kimberly Page, Shawn Stasiak and Big Vito are all gone after I chose not to renew their contracts.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Lisa Maria Varon and Shelton Benjamin have both reported at our developmental territories, 5SSW and Wildside. I doubt either of them will be there very long though, because they're both pretty much ready. I've already got plans in place for Lisa on Renaissance, and I have the beginnings of an idea for Shelton that might amount to something if I can flesh them out.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Sumie Sakai and Wesna Busic have reached PPA agreements with us. They'll basically be working as enhancement talent on Renaissance. </em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> We've signed a deal with TPS to air our events across Europe.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> DDP has taken Ric Flair's son David on as a protege, which I'm sure Ric appreciates.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Nick Patrick's been looking pretty flabby, but I don't care. No one is buying a ticket or tuning in to see Nick Patrick, so as long as his refereeing isn't affected he can look as out of shape as he pleases. </em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/7AiYO6E.jpg</span> </div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>His first night in WWE, Booker T opened Raw with an in-ring promo about finally making it to the big time (har har), and then he beat Ron Waterman in a so-so match. He did the exact same thing to open Smackdown the next night, this time beating Rhyno in a good match. He was nowhere to be seen on either show the following week. Maybe Vince is already tired of paying him a 20% bonus on every single show he's booked?</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> In addition to the wrestler and non-wrestling personality I signed away from them, WWE let a handful of their contracts expire. Ivory is an obvious one, since I decided to offer her a PPA with us afterwards. They also did not re-sign Bob Holly, Crash Holly (another obvious one after his one night appearance with us), Rikishi, The Godfather and Samu. Charles 'Godfather' Wright announced his impending retirement days later.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em> Molly Holly's bulked up recently. I guess it's to make her look more physically imposing and hopefully boost her career, but I feel like she's working for the wrong company if that's the case.</em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p> </p><span>http://i.imgur.com/1eeVS9d.jpg</span> </div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>Samoa Joe is leaving Zero-One behind to sign an exclusive contract with Michinoku Pro. As a result the NWA World Tag Team titles, which he'd won with Kendo Ka Shin in February, have been vacated. Joe is someone I've had my eye on, and if I'd known Michinoku Pro was attempting to lock him down to a written deal I might have acted. I guess it's not the worst thing though. He's still young, and I'll keep an eye on his progress during his time in M-Pro. </em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p> </p><span>http://i.imgur.com/HLY8nvy.jpg</span> </div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>NOAH's 'Silver Explodes' show took place on May 15th. Akira Taue retained the GHC Heavyweight title against Yoshinari Ogawa in a good main event, but they were thoroughly outshined by the semi main event, where Jun Akiyama beat Kenta Kobashi in a MOTYC. The show would have come across very differently if those two matches had been flipped, but as it was this was at the same level as their last PPV, meaning it was well below their usual standard.</em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/JO5PDMM.jpg</span> </div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>TNA held their latest event, 'Adrenaline Rush', on April 29th. The best thing on the show was Frankie Kazarian beating BJ Whitmer in the semi main. The main event was once again devoted to Mantaur, who retained the TNA World title over former NWA champion Matt Sydal in a match that was better than it had any right to be. This was their best show since December, but it could be so much better if they let guys like Sydal and Jarrett headline without having to try and carry freaking Mantaur, who is one of the worst workers on their roster.</em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p> </p><img alt="ieBLbQ1.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/ieBLbQ1.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div><p></p><p></p><p> <em>Great Britain Hardcore (GBH) ran their last show in April and officially announced they're done. Another "extreme" promotion bites the dust. </em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <hr noshade size=3></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> Taking a break from writing Mayhem to get this up. I wrote the opening match, then got impatient and skipped ahead to start on the Mayhem match itself. #15 just came in, so I figured that was as good a place as any to take a break and post this update.</p><p> </p><p> So I've been mulling something recently. I feel like it's somewhat silly for WWE to have both the WWE and ECW titles as main event belts with their current setup, so I've been leaning towards temporarily taking control of them to turn Smackdown into ECW and institute a brand split. I was going to set up the rosters myself, but I thought it might be a good idea to offer this as a prediction prize for the current contest, with one person drafting for Raw and another for ECW. Anyone have any thoughts on that?</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> General diary comments/questions/critiques: Loving how you are keeping Bill away from Austin until a certain big deal PPV in the future <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> Didn't you hear Easy E? We're NEVER going to see that match! <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> (Watch one of them suffer a career-ending injury, and we really DON'T see it ever.)</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>Poor Book I almost feel bad for him if he wasn't such a traitor lol.</div></blockquote><p> Don't feel bad for him. Bret bent over backwards to appease him every time he complained about a loss. The least he could do was help give Big Sean and Knoble a rub on his way out. Not like I had him job to Lash Leroux or something. <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-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I really did not see you officially indoctrinating Jamie Knoble. I could have sworn you would have had him fight his way out eventually.</div></blockquote><p> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="<a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QiZNSzWIaLo" rel="external nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/embed/QiZNSzWIaLo"</a> frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></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>I'm putting all my eggs in the Eddie basket so I hope it is him.</div></blockquote><p> I can't wait for you guys to see the BIG signing! <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />:D:D</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> World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys {©}</strong></p><p><strong> </strong><em>You might have to split up the Hardys for the sake of the tag division. M.I.A.'s still not in their league... and so are the rest of the teams?</em></p></div></blockquote><p> Excluding the Steiners, who are a part-time team (and just failed in their shot last month anyway), the only team at or near the Hardys' level in popularity is True Heroes. But per the stipulation of their Starrcade match, those two teams CANNOT square off again until next Starrcade at the absolute earliest...</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>General diary comments/questions/critiques: <p> <em>Gotta admit, I wasn't too keen on the new format when it started, but it fits your writing style and it makes the month that much easier/faster so that's a huge plus. </em><em><strong>It also makes the flow of your plans and stories better, IMO</strong></em></p></div></blockquote><p> It really does make getting through my two weekly shows so much easier. And I completely agree with the bolded too. All in all, I'm really liking it so far.</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Danny_H22" data-cite="Danny_H22" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><p> The new format is growing on me actually. Well done dude</p></div></blockquote><p> Glad to hear it!</p><p> </p><p> </p><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>Sting: "Sure, I'll be Goldberg's first victim. It's at Mayhem so I'll be able to bring my baseball bat and use that, right?"<p> </p><p> Bret: "No, that's just the name of the PPV and Royal Rumble rip-off match. So, no you can't use the bat."</p><p> </p><p> Sting: "But the name of the PPV is Mayhem, surely the fans will expect it..."</p><p> </p><p> Bret: "No! He'll likely grab it and end your career too <span style="font-size:10px;">(which I should be doing soon)</span>."</p></div></blockquote><p> His best bet is to track Goldberg down in a desert in the middle of nowhere and hit him with a shovel! <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="K-Nection" data-cite="K-Nection" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>As long as they don't fight for custody of Dominic in a ladder match I'm fine with that feud <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> I'M YOUR PAPI! <img alt=":rolleyes:" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/rolleyes.png.4b097f4fbbe99ce5bcd5efbc1b773ed6.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p> I'm randomly reminded of some kid (or at least I hope it was a kid), who I guess didn't fully understand how wrestling works, saying they didn't understand why people were so sad about Eddie dying after all the horrible things he'd done to Rey and his family.</p>

[kinnikuniverse]

<p>Chill out, guys, knoble is still reluctant! Knoble mania will prevail!!!</p><p> </p><p>

Good thing that Kanyon is willing to change his ways</p><p> </p><p>

WUT??? JOE EXCLUSIVE IN JAPAN??? Now that, I didn't see coming! How long is his contract? Since when are michinoku pro able to do written contracts??? Will you make a working agreement with them so you can bring joe back to the states?</p><p> </p><p>

As for new japan, look, I don't know if it's possible in game, but the way I see it, in real life, bret would have bought NJPW, and inoki would retire from NJPW, bret would hire a better booker ( presumably jado and gedo) and just let them run the show themselves, only providing them financial help. Basically, what disney does with marvel studios.</p>

[JMike]

<p>Well, damn. Now I have to win the predictions to draft ECW and impress Countdown-senpai. I'm sorry for that.</p><p> </p><p>

Really though, I'd say go for the brand split, and also buy out New Japan if possible. Hire Godfather as a manager to someone? I don't know.</p><p> </p><p>

EDIT: If you want WWE, a company who really doesn't have enough workers to have a brand split to have one, why not have them buy NJPW? That could really shake things up</p>

[GingeyOne]

<p>Fan Scorecard:</p><p> </p><p>

World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. <strong>Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Sting vs. <strong>Goldberg</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. <strong>The Hardys {©}</strong></p><p>

<em>I do think that MiI may score some form of upset here, just to free the Hardys up. But Matt and Jeff deserve a long babyface reign.</em></p><p> </p><p>

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. <strong>"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. <strong>Sean O'Haire {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. <strong>"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}</strong></p><p> </p><p>

What will be match of the night? <strong>King Corino vs. Rey Mysterio Jr.</strong></p><p> </p><p>

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) <strong>0</strong></p><p> </p><p>

THE MAYHEM MATCH</p><p> </p><p>

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): <strong>Sabu, Eddie Guerrero, Great Muta </strong></p><p>

Most eliminations: <strong>The Unnatural</strong></p><p>

Longest time in match: <strong>Lance Storm</strong></p><p>

The Final Four: <strong>CM Punk, Lance Storm, Eddie Guerrero, The Unnatural</strong></p><p>

Runner up: <strong>Eddie Guerrero</strong></p><p>

Winner (worth 3 points): <strong>The Unnatural</strong></p><p> </p><p>

General diary comments/questions/critiques: Can't wait for this event! Love how you got rid of Booker on the way out. I am sure those wins helped Knoble and O'Haire quite a bit. WHO is the defector!?</p>

[The Lariat]

Fan Scorecard:

 

World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino vs. Rey Mysterio Jr. {©}

 

Sting vs. Goldberg

 

World Tag Team Championship: Made in Italy vs. The Hardys {©}

 

United States Heavyweight Championship: Chuck Palumbo vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}

 

World Television Championship: Fit Finlay vs. Sean O'Haire {©}

 

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa vs. "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson {©}

 

What will be match of the night? King Corino vs. Rey Mysterio Jr.

 

How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) 0

 

THE MAYHEM MATCH

 

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Sabu, Eddie Guerrero, Dusty Rhodes

Most eliminations: The Unnatural

Longest time in match: CM Punk

The Final Four: Scott Steiner, Lance Storm, Eddie Guerrero, The Unnatural

Runner up: Eddie Guerrero

Winner (worth 3 points): Lance Storm

 

General diary comments/questions/critiques: I was debating on whether to give it to Unnatural, but having the most eliminations and winning seemed a bit much. Plus, he does have the Fan Series to give him a shot when he decides. Storm winning hopefully shoots him up the card and allows him to be a big player for you.