WCW: Heart and Soul

Hashasheen · January 16, 2018

<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> Unlike the train wreck that was WCW in 2000, I have what I believe is a character explanation that makes sense, as well as a long-term plan for all of this. It's not being done just for the sake of a nonsensical "SWERVE!"</div></blockquote> I trust you to do a good job of it. It's just to me that Goldberg is one of those eternal babyfaces who probably wouldn't work very well as a heel IRL, like a Dusty Rhodes or Ricky Steamboat. I know Dusty worked heel with Murdoch, but he's so iconic as a babyface that it's hard to remember. Sidenote on old WCW stuff, but is it just me or does the "cops come out with wrestler" gimmick work far better for a Scott Steiner than a Bill Goldberg? Scott not only had the police siren but also had a habit of charging fans and being a wildcard, whereas Goldberg was always a lone wolf with a bit of a stone face.

K-Nection · January 16, 2018

Oh I just realized that Goldberg wasn't the one being "REDACTED" Y2J or Eddie here we come!

Beejus · January 16, 2018

A huge to-do in Toda! I don't think anyone would have ever seen Goldberg coming, and especially not joining the Empire. It's a little too bad that we are so far away from Starrcade, because Goldberg vs. Austin is now your headline feud. There may be other feuds that you can do that will be better written or better matches, but something has gone very wrong if your #1 PPV event is not main evented by that match now.

On the note of who all is coming and going, I feel very bittersweet about it. Rey staying is great news, as you've done so much to push him, and to lose him now would make it all for naught. I am pleased that it wasn't Scott Steiner leaving, I really just somehow knew that was just a red herring, but it's a little sad to see Booker go. The biggest reason I see is because it feels as though he had way higher potential than what you were able to get out of him. He never quite managed to come off as much more than an occasional main eventer, useful when you needed someone to fill a slot, save for his heel turn. But, that is very true to real life, where Booker was given the ball to run with mainly because there was barely anyone left in 2000s WCW who could carry it.

I'm excited to find out the WWF signing, I have a few names I think it could be. The suspense! I shiver with the anticipation.

evileddie10 · January 16, 2018

A bit gutted my boys (and girl) didn't win the UFS. But, Dustin Rhodes/Unnatural as been killing it. Always next time for the Sin-free Society.

sportsfanmas · January 16, 2018

Goldberg is back! Goldberg vs. Austin is gonna be a heck of a feud, I'm looking forward to it. Glad you were able to keep Rey, but sucks about Booker. He was always one of my faves in the WCW. I can't wait to see who the WWF signing could be. Keep it up, yours is one of the few dynasties I actively follow, even though I'm not predicting right now.

The Final Countdown · January 17, 2018

April 2003 Renaissance Update and May 2003 National Battle Report

http://i.imgur.com/2aDyraK.png

April 2003 Update

-The big news came on the first Renaissance after the Unified PPV, when we revealed that an 8-team tournament to crown tag team champions would begin in May. In the three weeks of TV before the tournament began, it would be up to the roster to form their teams. That was the main point driving all story development for those three weeks.

-Our Generation and Daffney/LuFisto are pre-established teams, so we didn't bother doing any teasing there.

-Devil Masami and Aja Kong showed some great chemistry in their previous matches together, so we had Devil come out after a Kong squash and suggest that they join forces to demolish every other team in the tournament.

-Veteran Chigusa Nagayo and youngster Meiko Satomura wrestled to a 30-minute draw on April 12th, and the next week an impressed Nagayo praised Meiko for the limit and offered to team with her in the tournament. Meiko accepted.

-Manami Toyota said the idea of becoming a dual champion appealed to her, so she wanted to enter the tournament with her regular partner Toshiyo Yamada. Toshiyo didn't immediately respond though. Etsuko Mita beat Yamada in the next week's main event, but after the match she applauded Yamada for pushing her to the limit. She also said that if Yamada wanted to step out of Toyota's shadow, the two of them could reform their old Dream Orca tag team in the tournament. Yamada finally gave her answer on the next show, when she came to the ring after Toyota's match and agreed to be her partner. That leaves Mita out in the lurch and scrambling to find a different partner, which won't make her happy.

-Kyoko Inoue and Takako Inoue were both looking for partners--but not each other! Kyoko did find a willing partner in Momoe Nakanishi on the May 3rd show, but Takako was still searching.

Show Summaries:

4/12:

Notes from this show:
-Sonoko Kato complained about her lack of push after this show and asked me to start giving her some wins.

4/19:

Notes from this show:
-Etsuko Mita injured her thigh during the main event, but fortunately she was able to shrug it off after a few days' rest.

5/2:

Notes from this show:
-Dusty brought Allison Corino before the wrestler's court, allegedly for forgetting to shake Manami Toyota's hand. She had to buy drinks for everyone after the show.

-Masami and Corino didn't have any chemistry as opponents. That match also included Masami's partner Aja Kong getting in some cheap shots on Allison.

National Battle Report: May 2003

USA

#1:

World Wrestling Entertainment

Top 5 Stars:

1) The Rock (1000 points)
2) Hollywood Hogan (853)
3) Triple H (814)
4) The Undertaker (810)
5) Kurt Angle (725)

Total Points: 4,202

#2:

World Championship Wrestling

Top 5 Stars:

1) Steve Austin (974 points)
2) Bill Goldberg (914)
3) Rey Mysterio Jr. (759)
4) CM Punk (746)
5) Rob Van Dam (734)

Total Points: 4,127

British Isles

#1:

World Wrestling Entertainment

Top 5 Stars:

1) The Rock (1000 points)
2) Hollywood Hogan (879)
3) The Undertaker (810)
4) Triple H (801)
5) Big Show (728)

Total Points: 4,218

#2:

World Championship Wrestling

Top 5 Stars:

1) Steve Austin (975 points)
2) Bill Goldberg (914)
3) Rey Mysterio Jr. (748)
4) Scott Steiner (696)
5) Rob Van Dam (693)

Total Points: 4,026

Japan

#1:

World Championship Wrestling

Top 5 Stars:

1) Steve Austin (966 points)
2) Bill Goldberg (914)
3) CM Punk (834)
4) Rey Mysterio Jr. (802)
5) Sean O'Haire (749)

Total Points: 4,265

#2:

World Wrestling Entertainment

Top 5 Stars:

1) The Rock (1000 points)
2) Hollywood Hogan (861)
3) Triple H (820)
4) The Undertaker (810)
5) Kurt Angle (725)

Total Points: 4,216

#3:

New Japan Pro Wrestling

No Data Available--New Japan has now been downgraded to Cult status, and their score is no longer being tabulated.

I trust you to do a good job of it. It's just to me that Goldberg is one of those eternal babyfaces who probably wouldn't work very well as a heel IRL, like a Dusty Rhodes or Ricky Steamboat. I know Dusty worked heel with Murdoch, but he's so iconic as a babyface that it's hard to remember.

I know what you mean. He definitely works better as a face, and it was beyond stupid for WCW to turn him when they were struggling and he was the one guy who MIGHT have been able to help (but probably not, because they were such a mess in general.) I've actually written out Goldberg's promo within the Road to Mayhem post you'll be seeing eventually, so hopefully his motivations will make sense.

I never really saw the Dusty and Murdoch run. Right after Dusty died I watched him vs. Inoki on NJPW World, and it's the only time I've ever seen him wrestle as a heel. It was weird.

Sidenote on old WCW stuff, but is it just me or does the "cops come out with wrestler" gimmick work far better for a Scott Steiner than a Bill Goldberg? Scott not only had the police siren but also had a habit of charging fans and being a wildcard, whereas Goldberg was always a lone wolf with a bit of a stone face.

Yeah, what does Goldberg need those cops for anyway?

Oh I just realized that Goldberg wasn't the one being "REDACTED" Y2J or Eddie here we come!

I considered leaving this unanswered and continuing the tease, but I might as well come out and say it now:

"REDACTED" actually applied to TWO people on that creative meeting. Goldberg was the one on the franchise players list. The WWE signing appears on the show stoppers and ring generals lists.

A huge to-do in Toda! I don't think anyone would have ever seen Goldberg coming, and especially not joining the Empire. It's a little too bad that we are so far away from Starrcade, because Goldberg vs. Austin is now your headline feud. There may be other feuds that you can do that will be better written or better matches, but something has gone very wrong if your #1 PPV event is not main evented by that match now.

In terms of star power, that's absolutely the biggest match I can book. I don't think even WWE has two guys with that level of popularity that they can book together. But does that mean it's the match Bret Hart would want to put in the main event of the biggest show of the year? I guess we'll have to find out.

On the note of who all is coming and going, I feel very bittersweet about it. Rey staying is great news, as you've done so much to push him, and to lose him now would make it all for naught. I am pleased that it wasn't Scott Steiner leaving, I really just somehow knew that was just a red herring, but it's a little sad to see Booker go. The biggest reason I see is because it feels as though he had way higher potential than what you were able to get out of him. He never quite managed to come off as much more than an occasional main eventer, useful when you needed someone to fill a slot, save for his heel turn. But, that is very true to real life, where Booker was given the ball to run with mainly because there was barely anyone left in 2000s WCW who could carry it.

It's ironic because he held the world title for 7 months, but calling him an occasional main eventer isn't off the mark with how often he was either bumped out of the main event or not even put in a match on the show. It played into the storyline, but it was also done because other matches were more important or had the potential to be better.

Wolfman84 · January 17, 2018

Serious question how close was Rey Mysterio to leaving? Also with so much new talent the lost of Booker T. can't hurt long term but might short due to remaking one key story line. All and all great show TFC and interesting signing of Goldberg.

K-Nection · January 17, 2018

Wow Sean O'Hare squashing Book really helped him in Japan for him to take RVD's spot????

DGenerationMC · January 17, 2018

I was already pumped about the inevitable(?) Punk-Austin feud, but we get Austin-Goldberg now?

I'm over the frickin' moon.

kinnikuniverse · January 19, 2018

SEAN O'HAIRE is big in japan? HOW??? I mean, yeah, this is the country that turned Bob Sapp into a national icon, but still...

Speaking of sean, how's his growth skill wise and pop wise? Considering that he just squashed booker t AND he's big in japan, it must be big, right?

The national battle is getting tighter and tighter! Boy, this is an exciting time!

Man, new japan becoming cult. Well, this is 2003, so it's realistic, but damn... really want to see how dragon gate in this universe would be like. Would the toryumon wrestlers come back, or will it use its own roster?

Also, how's ROH in this timeline? Did candido get a job there?

Can't wait to see who the WWE signing is! My guess is that he won't be revealed til next PPV.

Uncrewed · January 19, 2018

Sean O'Haire is top 5 in Japan and we still have a surprise signing from WWE.

Life is good in WCW.

Satyr24 · January 19, 2018

I'm wondering if the WWE signing will put you higher then WWE in the national battle, I'm guessing he isn't appearing on it yet as his contract has started yet

The Final Countdown · January 20, 2018

May 2003: Road to Mayhem <div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="DZfKm2b.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/DZfKm2b.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> The Backstories:</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">The King Comes for his Throne</div> -Even if it was extremely tainted, the fact remained that King Corino pinned Steve Austin at Clash of the Champions. In the face of that, he was made the new #1 contender for Rey Mysterio Jr's world title, which was revealed on the April 28th Nitro when a Mysterio highlight package transitioned into a pre-taped promo from Corino. In a fantastic segment, Corino said that Rey's inspirational, improbable world title run would surely become a box office smash if the people from Hollywood got their hands on it. But the feel-good story of the year was about to come to an end, because the King was coming for his throne at Mayhem. Champion and challenger met in Piper's Pit, where Corino bragged about The Empire being united in their goal to make sure he brought home the World Heavyweight Championship. To prove the point, Eric Bischoff ordered the group to attack. Rey had brought his friends Konnan and Kidman out with him to even the odds in the event something like that happened, but Jamie Knoble getting in on the action caught them by surprise. With the rest of the group dealing with Kidman and Konnan, a seemingly reluctant Knoble blindsided Mysterio and locked him in the guillotine choke. Corino and Bischoff watched with glee as the champion was choked out. Mysterio met Knoble one on one in the main event of the go-home show. Knoble worked over Rey's surgically repaired knees extensively, almost to the exclusion of anything else, before Mysterio did eventually come away with the win. Corino tried to attack him after the match, but with the rest of the group having already left the building for the night (thanks to a certain Hellraiser), it was a fair fight. Champion and challenger fought, neither one getting a clear upper hand as the show faded to black. These two had a great match in the finals of the Stu Hart Classic, and then an even better one on Nitro in February when they went to that double count out in a UFS match. Now, with both guys being hotter than ever before, in a PPV main event and the world title worked in, my expectations are sky high. </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">We Can't Always Get What We Want</div> -After being forced to take a week off by management in a futile hope to let things blow over, Steve Austin was back on May 5th, and he wanted one thing: Goldberg! Unfortunately for him, Eric Bischoff had some bad news: he employed Goldberg personally, instead of him being a normal contracted WCW wrestler. That meant it was up to him to sign off on any matches WCW wanted to put Goldberg in, and he promised that he would NEVER agree to a match between Austin and Goldberg! "I'd say I'm sorry to disappoint you, but who am I kidding? I love it!" Bischoff said with a laugh. When Bobby Heenan caught up to him later in the night, Austin said that if Bischoff didn't want to make that match, he'd just have to convince him--and he'd been told he was a VERY persuasive SOB! Arn Anderson met Austin in the parking lot the next week, saying he knew his blood was running hot and he understood the feeling, but he warned him not to do anything rash. Austin didn't heed the advice, because he later crashed an Empire backstage promo wielding a chair, forcing Bischoff and most of the group to flee the building! Later still, Arn called Austin into his office and said that his hands were tied, and action had to be taken. Since Austin had violated the restraining order Bischoff had on him, Arn was compelled to suspend Steve effective immediately--meaning his spot in the Mayhem match was now gone! Austin wasn't happy with that, but he said he respected Arn as a "straight shooter" and knew he was only doing what he had to do. However... <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Steve Austin, 5/12/03 "You can take me outta that match if that's what you gotta do, Double A. But if Bischoff or Goldberg think they're safe from me this Sunday, they've got another thing comin'!"</div></blockquote> </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Company Man</div> -Everyone was waiting to hear Bill Goldberg explain why he'd aligned himself with Eric Bischoff upon his return to WCW. They didn't have to wait long, because he cut a promo at the beginning of the next Nitro. He talked about bursting onto the scene and picking up the torch as the leader of WCW, a position he'd held with pride. But when WCW left Turner and the 'new era' began, where was he? <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Bill Goldberg, 4/28/03 "I sat there waiting for a phone call I knew was going to come. WCW was here to stay, and Goldberg was ready to continue being 'the man' as soon as they offered me a contract! But the phone call never came. "The new owners had a different vision for what WCW was gonna become, and Bill Goldberg just didn't fit. Or at least that's what they told me. Personally I think somebody was jealous of my success and didn't want me around anymore, but it doesn't matter. What matters is that even though I was the biggest superstar in the history of WCW, there was no longer a place for Bill Goldberg. And it pissed me off. Then I saw Steve Austin show up in WCW, and it REALLY pissed me off. There's no room for me, but you roll out the red carpet for THAT guy, on MY turf? You might as well have spit right in my face! And you fans, you cheered him! You turned your backs on me, just like the company did! "Then Eric Bischoff called me. Now I know a lotta people hate Eric, but fact is, it was him that first gave Goldberg an opportunity. Eric agreed that it wasn't right for a guy like Austin to come back and collect a nice big fat paycheck in the company that I helped keep alive, and he offered to hire me personally. If WCW didn't want to pay me, that's fine, because I could work directly for Eric. "A lot of people have been telling me I 'sold out', but WCW didn't want me anymore, and now I've found a new home! And if you don't like it, you can try and do something about it! But be careful, or you might get hurt just like Austin did!" </div></blockquote> Sting appeared when Goldberg was done and said he was disappointed in Bill. He thought Bill was smart enough to see through a guy like Bischoff, who is a user and a manipulator. After a short squash on May 5th, Goldberg grabbed the mic and called Sting a hypocrite, because how dare Sting question him when WCW kept Sting around like an old relic of the past while the hottest star of today, Goldberg, was left out in the cold? But if Sting was so disappointed in him, he'd happily give Sting the chance to show him the "error of his ways" one on one at Mayhem, a challenge Sting was quick to accept. Goldberg had another relatively quick squash on May 12th, but when he tried to inflict further punishment on Ernest Miller after the match, Sting hit the ring with his baseball bat. Goldberg backed down that time, but there'll be no bats allowed at Mayhem. Who knows what to expect here? Sting's way past his prime and Bill is still rusty, not that he was ever a ring general anyway. At least the fans should react. </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Not So Hardcore?</div> -Bobby Roode and Ric Flair continue to play up their chair assault of Rob Van Dam, laughing at the idea of one-upping "Mr. Hardcore" at what's supposed to be his own game. RVD was seen speaking on the phone backstage on May 5th, and he agreed with the person on the other end: he really has been missing something lately, especially after being left lying by Bobby Roode and the steel chair. He was having another chat on the phone the next week, and was saying he didn't need any help and would be fine on his own when Roode and Flair interrupted. They advised him to call that person back and tell them he'd changed his mind, because he was going to need all the help he could get if he found himself in the ring with "the new hardcore icon", Bobby Roode, during the 30-man Mayhem match. </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">30 Men Enter, One Stands Tall</div> -Our answer to the Royal Rumble returns with the second annual Mayhem match. 30 participants entering at timed intervals, just like the Rumble, but there are no over the top rope eliminations here. There are four ways to be eliminated: pinfall, submission, knock out or referee stoppage. With a World title shot at Great American Bash going to the winner, all the contenders are lining up. Will it be CM Punk or Lance Storm breaking out from True Heroes? Will Shane Douglas command the spotlight again, and this time claim the ultimate prize? Can Scott Steiner put on a show for all his freaks en route to becoming a three time champion? Might DDP win the match for the second year in a row? Or will it be a member of Salvation, who staked their claim by interrupting a True Heroes pre-taped promo and beating both Punk and Storm down? Or, perhaps, could it be a dark horse? Hopefully we've presented multiple viable options that can keep the fans guessing. </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Palumbo Looms Large</div> -In an interview, AJ Styles said he was obviously disappointed to lose in his World Heavyweight Championship match, but he was proud of his effort and gave all the credit to Rey for being just a little bit better. Chuck Palumbo strolled in, laughed in his face and said that AJ and Rey might both be really good, but a good big man like himself can always beat a good little man. Palumbo sat in on color commentary during AJ's match against Psychosis the following week, where a title match for Mayhem was announced. Palumbo spent the match giving AJ backhanded compliments, calling him a "great little wrestler", but saying that everybody knows size matters in the ring. They didn't have any interaction on the May 12th show, though The Empire did comment on the match and on bringing the US title under their control before they were chased out of the building by Austin. This will be an interesting test for Styles to see how good a match he can get out of the limited Palumbo. AJ's stock has never been higher after last month's match with Rey, and he'll want to produce something great here. </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Dragon vs. Phoenix</div> -Bryan Danielson joined commentary for Hayabusa's win over Psychosis on 4/28, and he said he respected the death-defying aerial style of "The Phoenix" and knew his first title defense would be a tough one, but he couldn't afford to lose the title quickly for the second time. Danielson had a tune-up win over Hayabusa's frequent partner Jinsei Shinzaki on May 5th, with the challenger watching on from the aisle. It's a babyface vs. babyface match here, but the action should be really good. Though I haven't mapped it all out yet, this is a strong candidate to open the show and get the crowd rocking. </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">A Makeover for the Tag Team Titles</div> -Made in Italy won a three-way match against Volador & Aguila and The Shooting Stars, in the process earning a title shot against the Hardys at Mayhem. They took the mic after the match to say that Matt and Jeff had disgraced the tag team titles with their outlandish fashion sense and multicolored hair long enough, and it was time that the division got a much-needed makeover on top. The challengers made a nuisance of themselves the next week, with Tony, Johnny and Dawn Marie all getting involved to help The Unnatural beat Matt in a singles match. The two teams were on opposite sides of a six man on May 12th, with the Hardys' side winning when Sean O'Haire beat Mamaluke. Their feud with the Steiners was big, but this is the biggest spot yet for Made in Italy. Hopefully they can deliver. </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Revenge via Roadblock</div> -Sean O'Haire's win over Hugh Morrus on 4/28 was his 9th successful defense, putting him just one away from being able to vacate the title and challenge for the US belt. Fit Finlay reached this same mark before O'Haire won the title from him, and it was for this reason that he attacked O'Haire following the match with Morrus. O'Haire called Finlay a baby for doing something like that. If he'd wanted a rematch, all he had to do was ask. He was going to talk to the front office and insist that match was made, and it would be perfect for him to make his tenth defense at Mayhem by beating Finlay. In a six man tag on May 12th, Finlay could only watch from the apron as O'Haire pinned Tony Mamaluke. But he knew that on Sunday, it'd be all up to him to return the favor O'Haire dealt him in January by ending his title reign one defense shy of the US title benchmark. </div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;">Show Summaries: 4/28: <img alt="aL75H5U.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/aL75H5U.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Notes from this show: -This was Booker T's last appearance before leaving for WWE. He was furious about putting Knoble over clean, as if I was going to care. -The Harry Smith/Shawn Stasiak and Minoru Tanaka/Elix Skipper matches were billed as qualifiers for the Mayhem battle royal, a gimmick we ran with some lower card matches to add a bit of intrigue. -You could see Bobby Roode showing some more charisma in his promo just from hanging around Flair. -"You need to get ridda this Mini Coop Tanaka guy. Nobody wants to watch no karate man doin' that UFC bull--!" -Scott Steiner 5/5: <img alt="3d2ocx5.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/3d2ocx5.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Notes from this show: -The Jung Dragons beat Volador and Aguila in a Mayhem qualifier. -Chuck Palumbo was on color commentary for the AJ Styles/Psychosis match. -Jamie Knoble officially turned heel during the Piper's Pit segment by attacking Mysterio. The turn went well. 5/12: <img alt="dWFye0K.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/dWFye0K.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Notes from this show: -One week after his heel turn, Jamie Knoble moved away from his old young lion gimmick and into being a glorified lackey for The Empire. It's looking like a big success to start with. -This was the debut of Brian Kendrick after his developmental call-up. Mike Lockwood, aka Crash Holly, was furious about putting over the unknown kid in this Mayhem qualifying match, but he was only here for one day, so that's his problem. -Kendrick's cocky youth character got off to a very good start. -Lisa Moretti, the former Ivory, didn't convince the crowd very much with her attempt at an old school heel. -The Shooting Stars beat 3 Count in a Mayhem qualifying match. -"Who the hell's Brian Candlestick? Nobody wants to see that skinny geek!" -Scott Steiner -"Kendrick's going to be money. You should give him a big push right away." -CM Punk </div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div> Fan Scorecard: 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? How many championships will change hands? (the Mayhem match does not count) THE MAYHEM MATCH Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Most eliminations: Longest time in match: The Final Four: Runner up: Winner (worth 3 points): General diary comments/questions/critiques: </div></blockquote> Mayhem entrant list: 1. Alexander 2. Billy Kidman 3. Bobby Roode 4. Brian Adams 5. Brian Kendrick 6. Chavo Guerrero Jr. 7. Christopher Daniels 8. CM Punk 9. Diamond Dallas Page 10. Harry Smith 11. Hugh Morrus 12. Jamie Knoble 13. Kaz Hayashi 14. Konnan 15. Lance Storm 16. Mark Jindrak 17. Minoru Tanaka 18. Rick Steiner 19. Rob Van Dam 20. Scott Steiner 21. Shane Douglas 22. Shane Helms 23. TAKA 24. Teddy Hart 25. The Destroyer 26. The Unnatural 27. Yang Plus three mystery entrants! <hr noshade size=3> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Wolfman84" data-cite="Wolfman84" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Serious question how close was Rey Mysterio to leaving? Also with so much new talent the lost of Booker T. can't hurt long term but might short due to remaking one key story line. All and all great show TFC and interesting signing of Goldberg.</div></blockquote> It was very close. I could never get him to the point that he clearly favored one offer over the other. He remained at 'seriously considering both offers', so all I could do was cross my fingers and hope for the best, because I decided I wasn't going to cheat the system by going back to a prior save and renegotiating if things didn't go my way. Fortunately he agreed to the deal the day of the Clash go-home show. If he'd taken even one day longer, that PPV would have looked very different. <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>Wow Sean O'Hare squashing Book really helped him in Japan for him to take RVD's spot????</div></blockquote> Yep, it gave him a nice little boost in popularity worldwide. He's at B+ in Japan now. RVD is still more over than him in every region, but O'Haire's not too far behind in Japan now, and his star quality puts him over the top. His star quality is equal to that of Mysterio (who bulked up, don't forget), and the only males who are above them are Goldberg (#1), Austin (2), Jeff Hardy (3) and Punk (4). <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="kinnikuniverse" data-cite="kinnikuniverse" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>SEAN O'HAIRE is big in japan? HOW??? I mean, yeah, this is the country that turned Bob Sapp into a national icon, but still... Speaking of sean, how's his growth skill wise and pop wise? Considering that he just squashed booker t AND he's big in japan, it must be big, right?</div></blockquote> I just covered his popularity gains, which have been nice. In-ring and on the mic he's okay. He's never going to be one of the best workers in the company, not with the roster I've got, but he should be able to have very good matches with strong opponents to work with. Fortunately there is no shortage of great workers to choose from. As for why he's more popular in Japan than elsewhere, that's a byproduct of getting a strong TV deal there earlier. I got a good one early on in Australia as well, so if you were to look at my roster, you'd see that most of the guys who weren't as over at the start and were built up by me are more popular in Japan and Australia than anywhere else. That gap is starting to close a bit now that I'm on the USA Network though. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>The national battle is getting tighter and tighter! Boy, this is an exciting time!</div></blockquote> That's the single biggest reason I signed Goldberg. I do have plans for his character that I'm excited about, but he's a huge difference-maker in the national battles. I still have some catching up to do outside of Japan though. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Man, new japan becoming cult. Well, this is 2003, so it's realistic, but damn... really want to see how dragon gate in this universe would be like. Would the toryumon wrestlers come back, or will it use its own roster?</div></blockquote> The situation is VERY bad in New Japan, which you'll hear a bit more about in the next news update. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Also, how's ROH in this timeline? Did candido get a job there?</div></blockquote> ROH is just kind of there. They've actually lost popularity in their region since their debut, but they were at a lower point several months ago and have been bouncing back so far in 2003, so there's room for a bit of hope at least. Their big problem is that so many of the great young workers that made up the foundation of early ROH are in my WCW. Candido hasn't been signed by anyone. He's done a big pile of absolutely nothing since he asked for his release. He hasn't even worked on an indy show! <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Satyr24" data-cite="Satyr24" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I'm wondering if the WWE signing will put you higher then WWE in the national battle, I'm guessing he isn't appearing on it yet as his contract has started yet</div></blockquote> If we're looking at the US, I'm about 70-80 points behind WWE. So his score would need to be 70-80 points higher than RVD's, assuming everything else from both companies remained the same as last month. Not too many of those guys around.

Uncrewed · January 20, 2018

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)- 0

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each):Eddie Guerrero, Jim Duggan, & Stevie Ray

Most eliminations: Scott Steiner

Longest time in match: RVD

The Final Four: CM Punk, Rob Van Dam, Lance Storm, Shane Douglas

Runner up: Rob Van Dam

Winner (worth 3 points): CM Punk

The Final Countdown · January 20, 2018

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Uncrewed" data-cite="Uncrewed" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="43035" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div> Name the three mystery entrants (one point each):WWE guy, Jim Duggan, & Stevie Ray</div></blockquote> You'd have to actually name the WWE guy to get credit for it. <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

K-Nection · January 20, 2018

Fan Scorecard:

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

I've officially changed my mind three times on this. I say the smart money is with Rey for National Battles sake.

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 {©}

Sean is your future and he looks like he is going to be a guy that help you in national battles.

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

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

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Eddie Guerrero, David Flair and Shinsuke Nakumara

Most eliminations: The Destroyer

Longest time in match: Rob Van Dam

The Final Four: Scott Steiner Shane Douglas

Runner up: Lance Storm

Winner (worth 3 points): CM Punk

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" />

Poor Book I almost feel bad for him if he wasn't such a traitor lol.

I really did not see you officially indoctrinating Jamie Knoble. I could have sworn you would have had him fight his way out eventually.

I'm putting all my eggs in the Eddie basket so I hope it is him.

DGenerationMC · January 20, 2018

Fan Scorecard:

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

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Chris Benoit, Sabu, Jim Duggan

Most eliminations: The Destroyer

Longest time in match: CM Punk

The Final Four: Storm, Punk, Benoit, Destroyer

Runner up: Chris Benoit

Winner (worth 3 points): Lance Storm

michgcs · January 20, 2018

Fan Scorecard:

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

I dunno. Rey's done a good job and though I'd root for Corino any day of the week, I think Rey-Rey keeps his title

Sting vs. Bill Goldberg

LOL Sting's lucky he even HAS a match

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

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?

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

I like AJ as US Champ, and I think he holds it for a while as he develops his skills and popularity

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

Sean's right, Finlay's a bitter old coot!

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

This was my last chance for a title change, but I can't see it, especially not when it's face vs face

What will be match of the night?

Corino-Mysterio

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Chris Jericho, Aja Kong, Nigel McGuinness

Most eliminations: CM Punk

Longest time in match: CM Punk

The Final Four: RVD, Lance Storm, Jericho, Shane Douglas

Runner up: Jericho

Winner (worth 3 points): Lance Storm

I have a feeling that it's gonna be one of the mystery guys (fingers crossed for Jericho) but I'm gonna go with someone we know. I think this match should be used to build someone up rather than having it be an extra accomplishment for an already-accomplished worker, but it might be too early for Punk so how about we be serious for a minute and reward Lance Storm; he's earned it!

General diary comments/questions/critiques:

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. It also makes the flow of your plans and stories better, IMO

bonnie · January 20, 2018

World Heavyweight Championship: King Corino

Bill Goldberg

World Tag Team Championship: The Hardys {©}

United States Heavyweight Championship: "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles {©}

World Television Championship: Sean O'Haire {©}

Cruiserweight Championship: Hayabusa

What will be match of the night? Rey v Corino

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Duggan, Nakamura, wwe guy (the giant)

Most eliminations: the destroyer

Longest time in match: Punk

The Final Four: storm, punk, RVD, Shane Douglas

Runner up: Punk

Winner (worth 3 points): Storm

Warhawk8492 · January 20, 2018

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

Sting vs. Bill Goldberg

As much as I like Sting, Goldberg just turned he ain't losing

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

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

Move AJ on to the main event

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 Vs Mysterio

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Eddie Guerrero, Jim Duggan and David Flair

Most eliminations: The Destroyer

Longest time in match: Lance Storm

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

Runner up: Shane Douglas

Winner (worth 3 points): RVD

General diary comments/questions/critiques: Great booking so far.

evileddie10 · January 20, 2018

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?

Rey/Corino

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

0

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Chris Jericho, Sabu, Jim Duggan

Most eliminations:The Destroyer

Longest time in match: CM Punk

The Final Four: CM Punk, Jericho, Destroyer, RVD

Runner up: Chris Jericho

Winner (worth 3 points): CM Punk

Happy0wns · January 20, 2018

Fan Scorecard:

Sting vs. Bill Goldberg

What will be match of the night? Corino v Mysterio

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): wwe guy (fine eddie), masato tanaka (long shot but maybe it could be a nice moment to former ECW fans wit destroyer yaknow), stevie ray (a thank you for warning you about booker! <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />)

Most eliminations: the destroyer

Longest time in match: CM Punk

The Final Four: WWE Guy (Fiiiine Eddie), CM Punk, DDP & The Unnatural

Runner up: CM Punk

Winner (worth 3 points): WWE Guy (Fine EDDIE GUERRERO)

General diary comments/questions/critiques:

Mayhem entrant list:

cbacon87 · January 20, 2018

Fan Scorecard:

Sting vs. Bill Goldberg

What will be match of the night? Corino/Rey

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Chris Jericho, Kenta Kobashi and Mitsuharu Misawa

Most eliminations: Unnatural

Longest time in match: Jamie Knoble

The Final Four: Jericho, RVD, Punk, Unnatural

Runner up: Unnatural

Winner (worth 3 points): Chris Jericho

DHK1989 · January 20, 2018

Sting vs. Bill Goldberg

What will be match of the night? Mayhem Match

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Chris Jericho, Jushin Thunder Liger and Jim Duggan

Most eliminations: Scott Steiner

Longest time in match: Rob Van Dam

The Final Four: The Unnatural, CM Punk, Rob Van Dam, Shane Douglas

Runner up: Shane Douglas

Winner (worth 3 points): CM Punk

jscotty · January 20, 2018

Sting vs. Bill Goldberg

What will be match of the night? Corino/Rey

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

THE MAYHEM MATCH

Name the three mystery entrants (one point each): Chris Jericho, Jushin Thunder Liger, Kenta Kobashi

Most eliminations: Scott Steiner

Longest time in match: Lance Storm

The Final Four: Jericho, Storm, CM Punk, Shane Douglas

Runner up: Storm

Winner (worth 3 points): CM Punk

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