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SSW: Getting Smart and Snarky! (June 2017 Draft Diary)


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CHAPTER ONE: A NEW ERA IN PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING

 

The year is 1998. The Monday Night Wars have been put to a screeching halt, not by the hands of WCW or the WWF, but by fate. Suddenly, every talent around the world is available for drafting by one of 10 enterprising companies, all with unique owners and products. The very fate of the wrestling world lies in the hands of these powerful people. However, at this precise moment, one of these sets of hands, the one in charge of molding Smart and Snarky Wrestling...is quite greasy.

 

---

 

http://i.imgur.com/TnN95xM.jpg

 

Dusty Rhodes sits at the counter of a diner in the southern United States. He's chowing down on a breakfast of bacon and eggs, and his wide body ensures ample elbow room. In fact, nobody walks up to sit next to him until another older gentleman files in.

 

http://i.imgur.com/GM5AtzK.jpg

 

Pat Patterson, an in-ring legend whose peak technical prowess is exceeded only by his match-building genius, takes the seat next to Dusty.

 

PP: "Strange times make for strange bedfellows, Dusty."

 

DR: "You don't have to tell me, buddy. This draft business ain't for the faint of heart."

 

PP: "So how are we going to do this?"

 

DR: "Well, the plan is for us to get the guys who can work. We've got the first overall pick, and I've traded for an extra pick in the top 20. If we can nail those three picks and flesh the locker room out with guys we like, I think we'll do well. We'll create a product the smart, snarky fans love, while also making ourselves very hard for those other guys to go against."

 

PP: "Who's the first pick?"

 

DR: "There's only one choice."

 

On cue, in walks...

 

http://i.imgur.com/4Ej3a9q.jpg

 

Steve Austin: "Ready to kick some ass, boys?"

 

DR: "Hell yeah, daddy."

 

Pat rolls his eyes at the first of many Dusty-isms he's likely to hear, but he's relieved to see the biggest star in the business walk through the door.

 

PP: "Alright, let's plan this out. Also, can I see a menu?"

 

---

 

SPREADSHEET OF DRAFT RESULTS: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1AHddq74tS4nNXnciTnlT8RYwlIZI35vm63nwj7IMDmw/edit

 

(OOC Note: My next few posts will largely serve as setups/exposition, just because there are a few changes being rolled out in version 1.2 of the mod that I don't want to miss when it gets posted. Still, I hope you follow along and enjoy what you read, as told by the members of the SSW booking committee. This'll be fun!)

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<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">CHAPTER TWO: THE DRAFT'S AFTERMATH</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>"...what the heck do we have here?"</em></p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i.imgur.com/GM5AtzK.jpg</span></p><p> </p><p>

<em>The voice saying these words belongs to an exhausted </em><em><strong>Pat Patterson</strong></em><em>, who's going up and down the Smart and Snarky Wrestling roster with a quizzical look on his face.</em></p><p> </p><p>

PP: "I mean, SOME of these guys are good. Your trade to get an extra top-20 pick really worked out. But some of them? These guys don't fit our original mission at all!"</p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i.imgur.com/TnN95xM.jpg</span></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Meanwhile, SSW owner </em><em><strong>Dusty Rhodes</strong></em><em> seems far from concerned.</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: "Daddy, you're a genius at getting the best out of people. Why do you think I wanted to work with you? You're gonna be our main road agent and part of this booking committee, and on top of all that, you're The Dream's right-hand man!"</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Patterson buries his head in his hands for a minute.</em></p><p> </p><p>

PP: "I can work with some of this. <strong>Steve Austin? Goldberg? Triple H?</strong> Great. Shoot, <strong>DDP, Dean Malenko, Jeff Jarrett,</strong> and even <strong>Lex Luger</strong> are good guys to have. But <strong>Sid Vicious? Ultimate Warrior?</strong> Dusty, what're you thinking? You want something the Internet's gonna like, and you take THEM?!?!"</p><p> </p><p>

DR: "You gotta have the big guys to draw people in. And who knows? Maybe we can get 'em to put a few guys over."</p><p> </p><p>

PP: "That's the other thing. Who, among this roster, is going to be helping us put matches together?"</p><p> </p><p>

DR: "Funny you should ask."</p><p> </p><p>

<em>The two men look up from their seated positions as large footsteps are heard. The camera swivels around, and we see...</em></p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i.imgur.com/lMArTkZ.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/ekwqUR6.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/5lBoku5.jpg</span></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Jesse Ventura</strong>: "This better be good. I could've been governor of Minnesota."</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Jim Cornette</strong>: "Dusty! You look SO much better without those polka dots. Lose the french fries, and you'll be onto something!"</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Charles Robinson</strong>: "I don't really know why I'm here."</p><p> </p><p>

JV: "Because we needed a fifth guy to break ties and someone to go on coffee runs."</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Dusty smiles wide, while Patterson's eyes get bigger as he digests the situation and the personalities in the room.</em></p><p> </p><p>

PP: "When's the first show?"</p><p> </p><p>

DR: "Wednesday, LIVE on TNT, under all those bright lights and broadcast to the US and Canada. I'm gonna try to get us on in some other markets, too. You may hate some of those guys, daddy, but they'll draw, and we're gonna be a force worldwide."</p><p> </p><p>

PP: "If you say so. Now, can we get to work?"</p><p> </p><p>

<em>The three newcomers sit down, and they begin pitching ideas as our scene fades to black.</em></p>

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PRESS RELEASE: SSW Expands Globally, Adds Worldwide TV Coverage

 

Smart and Snarky Wrestling is proud to announce a massive expansion of its television programming. The company's flagship show, "SSW Mayhem!," will debut Wednesday night on TNT (U.S./British Isles), TSN (Canada), Canal 5 (Mexico), Eurosport (Europe), and J Sports 1 (Japan), providing fans around the world with a glimpse of premier wrestling action.

 

"We're happy to be joining forces with some of the top broadcast networks in the world," remarked SSW owner and president Dusty Rhodes. "'SSW Mayhem!' is going to quickly establish itself as the best weekly wrestling show on the planet, and it's going to be an honor to show it on TNT, TSN, Canal 5, Eurosport, and J Sports 1."

 

Rhodes also added that the company is in talks to expand its pay-per-view distribution. Currently, fans in the U.S. and Canada can watch SSW's seven pay-per-view events on Cox and Rogers, but the man known worldwide as "The American Dream" says it's a major goal of his to be on pay-per-view in all major wrestling markets.

 

Mike Tenay and Jesse Ventura have the call of all televised SSW events, including the first-ever edition of "SSW Mayhem!," which is coming up this Wednesday night from the Spectrum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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OK, let's get the excitement going; the first-ever "SSW Mayhem!" card is up! I'll have the card written up tomorrow during the day. In the meantime, post predictions using the form at the bottom of the page.

 

SSW MAYHEM!: JUNE 1998, WEEK #1

 

PRE-SHOW: Ultimate Warrior vs. Brad Armstrong

 

PRE-SHOW: Terry Funk vs. Bobby Eaton

 

MAIN SHOW

 

http://i.imgur.com/xqTcAaj.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/rsjTdti.jpg

??? vs. Fit Finlay

 

World-renowned brawler Fit Finlay has demanded a match on the first-ever edition of "SSW Mayhem!," and SSW owner and president Dusty Rhodes has not only agreed, but signed another star to SSW's roster that was not drafted by the company!

 

http://i.imgur.com/lARSSZP.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Al9ezSK.jpg

Madusa Micelli vs. Luna Vachon

 

SSW made a concerted effort to grab the top women's wrestlers available during the draft, and two of them will go at it in the very first women's match in company history! Who will prevail in a matchup between two veterans?

 

http://i.imgur.com/wm7ft95.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/G8wgPm0.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/nMwtwFQ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/qEVApab.jpg

Jun Akiyama and Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow (w/Jim Cornette)

 

Much to the dismay of traditional wrestling fans, Jim Cornette is here, and he's brought not only his mouth and tennis racket, but former associates Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow. Their first match sees the behemoths battle young lions Jun Akiyama and Tiger Mask IV, both of whom are managed by globe-trotting discoverer Percy Pringle!

 

http://i.imgur.com/AyFKIRx.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Pp8mJBm.jpg

Dean Malenko vs. Jeff Jarrett

 

Dean Malenko has long been thought of as one of the top in-ring technicians in professional wrestling. His SSW debut, though, doesn't figure to be a day at the beach. He faces another promising prospect, Jeff Jarrett, one whose trusty guitar is never far away when things get rough!

 

http://i.imgur.com/KRH4pFD.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/VTlWuMu.jpg

Diamond Dallas Page vs. Savio Vega

 

One of the most improbable wrestling success stories in recent years has been the rise of Diamond Dallas Page, who, at 42 years of age, has become one of the most popular wrestlers in the world. His SSW unveiling sees him matched up against Puerto Rican brawler Savio Vega, who mustn't be taken lightly!

 

http://i.imgur.com/4Ej3a9q.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/MsgaSTp.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/7gHaFo1.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/LkwpTHA.jpg

Steve Austin and Goldberg vs. Triple H (w/Chyna) and Lex Luger (w/Jim Cornette)

 

Our main event is a main event anywhere on the globe. Two of the most well-known superstars in wrestling, Steve Austin and Goldberg, will team up to take on rising star Triple H and the narcissist himself, Lex Luger. Joining the latter team at ringside will be both Chyna and Jim Cornette. Can Austin and Goldberg overcome the odds that are stacked against them?

 

----------

 

PREDICTION FORM (bold your projected winner)

 

Ultimate Warrior vs. Brad Armstrong

 

Terry Funk vs. Bobby Eaton

 

??? vs. Fit Finlay

BONUS POINT: Who is the mystery wrestler?

 

Madusa Micelli vs. Luna Vachon

 

Jun Akiyama and Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow (w/Jim Cornette)

 

Dean Malenko vs. Jeff Jarrett

 

Diamond Dallas Page vs. Savio Vega

 

Steve Austin and Goldberg vs. Triple H (w/Chyna) and Lex Luger (w/Jim Cornette)

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Ultimate Warrior vs. Brad Armstrong

 

Terry Funk vs. Bobby Eaton

 

??? vs. Fit Finlay

BONUS POINT: Who is the mystery wrestler?- Bob Backlund

 

Madusa Micelli vs. Luna Vachon

 

Jun Akiyama and Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow (w/Jim Cornette)

 

Dean Malenko vs. Jeff Jarrett

 

Diamond Dallas Page vs. Savio Vega

 

Steve Austin and Goldberg vs. Triple H (w/Chyna) and Lex Luger (w/Jim Cornette)

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<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">SSW MAYHEM!: June 1998, Week #1</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>LOCATION: Philadelphia Spectrum</p><p>

ATTENDANCE: 15,830</p><p> </p><p>

PRE-SHOW</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

MATCH #1: Ultimate Warrior defeated Brad Armstrong in 3:51 following a press slam and big splash. MATCH RATING: 52.</p><p> </p><p>

MATCH #2: Terry Funk defeated Bobby Eaton in 9:54 following a double-arm DDT.</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Fireworks and loud music bring us in to the first-ever broadcast of SSW Mayhem!, complete with a capacity crowd.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/FQ1ikVe.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/lMArTkZ.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Hello everyone, and welcome to a landmark night in the industry! I’m <strong>Mike Tenay</strong>, alongside the one and only <strong>Jesse Ventura</strong>, and we’ve got a fantastic night of wrestling for you!”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “For all of you tuning in around the world on TNT, TSN, Canal 5, Eurosport, and J Sports 1, you’re in for a treat. We’ve got some of the top wrestlers in the world in that locker room, and we’re going to give you what you want to see: Hard-hitting professional wrestling from bell to bell…”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Jesse’s introduction is cut off by southern rock music, and out walks wrestling legend </em><em><strong>Dusty Rhodes</strong></em><em>.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/TnN95xM.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

JV: “…oh, come on. What’s Dusty doing interrupting the man everyone tuned in to hear talk?!”</p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Smart and Snarky Wrestling’s owner and president, Dusty Rhodes, is headed to the ring to address this crowd. He’s the man who drafted everyone in that locker room, and there’s no telling what he’s going to say!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Dusty gets into the ring, dances to his music for a few seconds, and pulls a microphone out of his jeans pocket.</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: “Good evening, everybody! I won’t take up too much of your time tonight. But first of all, I’d like to welcome you to a new era in professional wrestling. Everybody all around the world is gonna LOVE what they’ll see tonight, and before we get going, I’ve just got one little announcement.</p><p> </p><p>

“You see…what we need are the champions. The standard-bearers. The figureheads of the company. And that’s why, starting next week, we’ll have tournaments to crown many of our first-ever SSW champions!”</p><p> </p><p>

MT: “WHOA!”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “Control yourself, Tenay.”</p><p> </p><p>

DR: “You’ll all know the eight men who’ll take part in the SSW World Championship tournament by the end of the night. That starts next week. Next week, we’ll also announce the format for our North American and Women’s Championship tournaments. It’s gonna be a lot of fun…”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>“HOLD IT.”</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/7gHaFo1.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/LkwpTHA.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>The crowd instinctively boos as </em><em><strong>HHH</strong></em><em> and </em><em><strong>Lex Luger</strong></em><em> show up at the top of the ramp and meander down to ringside.</em></p><p> </p><p>

HHH: “Dusty, with all due respect, the only two people you need to worry about competing for the World title are right here. This is the Total Package, Lex Luger. And me? Well…I’m the Game. You drafted me for a reason, Dusty. I’m the man designed to take SSW into the new millennium. And Lex…you’ve got some matches left, too. Just put us in a match, put up the title, and get the champion you need.”</p><p> </p><p>

LL: “We’ve known each other for a long time, Dusty. Like me or not, you MUST respect me. I don’t care what anyone else in the back thinks, and I don’t care how it looks. I want that title shot, RIGHT NOW.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>On that note, glass breaks, and the two bald-headed babyfaces, </em><em><strong>Steve Austin</strong></em><em> and </em><em><strong>Goldberg</strong></em><em>, march to the ring, getting in the faces of HHH and Luger.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/4Ej3a9q.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/MsgaSTp.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

SA: “You two…you’re funny. You really think I’m just gonna let you two cut me in line? Not a chance, boys. That’s not the way the Texas Rattlesnake does business.”</p><p> </p><p>

DR: “Whoa, whoa, whoa. None of y’all are getting a title match tonight, or next week. What I’ll tell you is this: All four of you are in the tournament, and you’ll all know your matches when I decide you should know ‘em. In the meantime, all four of you have a tag match in the main event tonight, and you best get ready for it.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>None of the four men budge, except for Goldberg, who grabs a microphone.</em></p><p> </p><p>

G: “HHH, Luger, tonight…you’re BOTH next.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>The crowd pops, but then Goldberg turns to Austin.</em></p><p> </p><p>

G: “And then…YOU’RE next.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Another pop, as all four men take turns staring each other down while Dusty leaves the ring.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>SEGMENT RATING:</strong> 79</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Well, folks, we’re not quite sure what to tell you. <strong>Fit Finlay</strong> demanded a match on the first-ever edition of ‘SSW Mayhem!,’ and he’s gotten it, but against who?”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “<strong>Dusty Rhodes</strong> says he found someone. Must’ve met somebody down at McDonald’s!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Smoke billows up at the top of the entrance ramp. We see a masked silhouette, and as the smoke dies down, it’s revealed to be…</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/f6RLb6g.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “That’s <strong>Dos Caras</strong>! Dusty Rhodes has brought in one of the top workers in Mexico, and he’ll be taking part in the very-first match in the history of this program!”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “OK, Mr. International Expert, who is this guy?”</p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Dos Caras is a legend in Mexico. He’s been in some of the most-watched matches in the history of the business in that country, and his rivalries with the likes of <strong>Mil Mascaras</strong> are some of the fiercest ever. This man’s seen a lot in a career that’s spanned nearly three decades, and we’re happy to have him here in SSW!”</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/f6RLb6g.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/rsjTdti.jpg</span><p>

MATCH #1: Dos Caras vs. Fit Finlay</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Given the two combatants involved, you’d expect a long, physical, technically-savvy affair, and that’s exactly what is delivered in this spot. Fans take some time to warm up to Dos Caras, but even though the legendary luchador is noticeably past his prime, he and Finlay work a reasonable opener that gets plenty of time. The end comes at 17:44, when Finlay scores a clean pin.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>WINNER:</strong> Fit Finlay (pinfall)</p><p>

<strong>MATCH RATING:</strong> 62</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/9kQmqBG.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>We go backstage, where we see </em><em><strong>Chyna</strong></em><em> standing outside </em><em><strong>HHH’s</strong></em><em> dressing room. The menacing woman stands with her arms folded, but we see her roll her eyes. It quickly becomes apparent why, as the camera pans left to reveal </em><em><strong>Madusa Micelli</strong></em><em>.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/B5TQmA3.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

C: “What do YOU want?”</p><p> </p><p>

MM: “The same thing you want, Chyna. You heard what Dusty said. There’s going to be a tournament to crown the new SSW Women’s Champion. I say, why wait?”</p><p> </p><p>

C: “Do you REALLY think I’m going to waste my time on a relic of the past? Madusa, you were spunky once…10 years ago. Now? You’re damaged goods. I could break you in half, and you know it.”</p><p> </p><p>

MM: “Care to try? Let’s do it now!”</p><p> </p><p>

C: “Like I’d waste my time.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>From offscreen, up walks </em><em><strong>Luna Vachon</strong></em><em>.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/QF2wmnp.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

LV: “Ooh, can I join this party, ladies? It seems like you’ve forgotten someone VERY important. Chyna, you seem to think you’re above everyone. But this is a new era. And Madusa…well, you and me have always wondered who’s best. Our match is next…and Chyna, I can’t promise you there’ll be any of her left when I’m done!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Luna slithers offscreen, and Madusa follows in close pursuit while Chyna, again, rolls her eyes.</em></p><p> </p><p>

C: “Freaks.”</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>SEGMENT RATING:</strong> 54</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/lARSSZP.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/Al9ezSK.jpg</span><p>

MATCH #2: Madusa Micelli vs. Luna Vachon</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Women’s wrestling isn’t known as an art form in 1998, and as such, this match doesn’t go over well with the crowd. The two women try hard, but this is certainly a step down from the opener. However, the crowd does get a chance to pop at 8:08, when Madusa scores a pin by way of a surprise rollup.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>WINNER:</strong> Madusa Micelli (pinfall)</p><p>

<strong>MATCH RATING:</strong> 48</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Backstage, </em><em><strong>Dusty Rhodes</strong></em><em> is working in his office, and a knock is heard at the door.</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: “Come in.”</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/ekwqUR6.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/nMwtwFQ.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/qEVApab.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/LkwpTHA.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>The camera pans, and we see the one and only </em><em><strong>Jim Cornette</strong></em><em>, tennis racket in hand, accompanied by three men: </em><em><strong>Vader</strong></em><em>, </em><em><strong>Bam Bam Bigelow</strong></em><em>, and </em><em><strong>Lex Luger</strong></em><em>, who we saw earlier this evening.</em></p><p> </p><p>

JC: “Dusty! It’s good to see you. I’m hoping you can hear me out. I’ve got a proposition for you.”</p><p> </p><p>

DR: “Oh, god.”</p><p> </p><p>

JC: “You see, Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow are the two most immovable objects on this entire roster. You will not be able to find two men to stop them from wreaking havoc on your entire band of misfits, and that includes anyone you’ll be able to bring in from around the world of wrestling, too. So why don’t you stop pretending there’s any competition for them out there, give us the SSW Tag Team titles, and allow us to defend them tonight against those two boys from Japan?”</p><p> </p><p>

DR: “I don’t much care for your attitude, Cornette. And what’s Luger doing here?”</p><p> </p><p>

JC: “Oh, he signed me as his official agent. So when Lex Luger wins the World title, and my two monsters win the tag titles, Team Cornette is going to sit atop the wrestling world.”</p><p> </p><p>

DR: “I’m not giving you those titles. You’ll have to earn them like everybody else, daddy.”</p><p> </p><p>

JC: “You go try to find two guys, Dusty. Whoever you find, and put in front of these guys, they’ll destroy.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Cornette leads his charges out of Dusty’s office as the owner/president shakes his head.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>SEGMENT RATING:</strong> 73</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/wm7ft95.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/G8wgPm0.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/nMwtwFQ.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/qEVApab.jpg</span><p>

Jun Akiyama and Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow (w/Jim Cornette)</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>True to Cornette’s word, Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow go out and attempt to throw Akiyama and Tiger Mask around the ring. They do, but the resilience of Akiyama and Tiger Mask makes for a surprisingly competitive match, one that spotlights the heart of the underdogs. However, at 10:00 even, Vader pins Tiger Mask following a Vader Bomb.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>WINNERS:</strong> Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow (pinfall)</p><p>

<strong>MATCH RATING:</strong> 62</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Backstage, </em><em><strong>Dusty Rhodes</strong></em><em> watches the end of the match and shakes his head. A heavy, deliberate set of footsteps are heard, and Dusty’s eyes get wide.</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: “What do you…what do you want?”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>“Oh, don’t worry, Dusty. I’m not here to hurt you…trust me.”</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/rcWJ0uC.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>The camera pans, and we see </em><em><strong>Jake Roberts</strong></em><em>, with his trusty snake bag slung over his shoulder.</em></p><p> </p><p>

JR: “You see, <strong>Cornette</strong> irritates me. Not as much as you, but I bet it’s close. He said he’s looking for two guys to take on his boys, is that right? Well…<strong>Vader</strong> and <strong>Bam Bam Bigelow</strong> have size. But the ultimate equalizer to any size difference is a willingness to go to any extreme to get what you want. You drafted me for that willingness, Dusty. Let me use it.”</p><p> </p><p>

DR: “…can you find another guy?”</p><p> </p><p>

JR: “You think we’re the only people who want to shut that little moron up? It may take a little time. But I’ll find a partner.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Dusty nods, and Jake exits.</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: “Did I just make a deal with the devil?”</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>SEGMENT RATING:</strong> 62</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/AyFKIRx.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/Pp8mJBm.jpg</span><p>

MATCH #4: Dean Malenko vs. Jeff Jarrett</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>This match was put here with the potential to steal the show, and that’s exactly what it does. Two of the top younger wrestlers in the business put on a fast-paced wrestling clinic that wows the crowd and shows the world what SSW was put together to do. Melanie gets the upper hand and appears to be going for a Texas Cloverleaf, when…</em></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Hey, what’s…what’s HE doing here?!”</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/ubGveVr.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

JV: “I don’t know, but I’m glad he’s here! That’s <strong>‘Ravishing’ Rick Rude</strong>, and for a guy who hasn’t wrestled full-time in a few years, he looks great!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Rude goes ringside and distracts Malenko, who shouts back at him. This allows Jarrett to sneak up behind his opponent and escape with a pinfall victory thanks to a rollup.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>WINNER:</strong> Jeff Jarrett (pinfall)</p><p>

<strong>MATCH RATING:</strong> 81</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

<em><strong>Jeff Jarrett</strong></em><em> leaves the ring, and </em><em><strong>Rick Rude</strong></em><em> pulls a microphone out from his trunks.</em></p><p> </p><p>

RR: “I’ve been told that the man in that ring is the best technical wrestler on the planet. I’ve been told that the wrestlers here are the best in the world. Forgive me, but after seeing that…I’m more convinced than ever that the best wrestler in the world is the one holding this microphone right now.”</p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Good to see Rick Rude hasn’t lost his ego!”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “It’s not ego if it’s true, Tenay!”</p><p> </p><p>

RR: “It’s taken a LONG time for me to get back into wrestling shape. But I’m 100 percent…and what I’d like to have right now is for all you fat, out-of-shape, smart and snarky sweat hogs…”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>The crowd boos wildly.</em></p><p> </p><p>

RR: “…to respect the man who will re-establish himself as the most ravishing wrestler in the history of the sport.”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Rude spikes the mic down and storms off as </em><em><strong>Dean Malenko</strong></em><em> boils inside the ring.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>SEGMENT RATING:</strong> 71</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/KRH4pFD.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/VTlWuMu.jpg</span><p>

MATCH #5: Diamond Dallas Page vs. Savio Vega</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Diamond Dallas Page comes out to a monster pop, and the SSW fans clearly appreciate seeing one of the company’s top draft picks in action. Savio Vega is a capable hand, and the two produce a solid match, but the outcome is never in doubt. Page pops the crowd one more time with a Diamond Cutter at 11:57, which is enough to end the match.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>WINNER:</strong> Diamond Dallas Page (pinfall)</p><p>

<strong>MATCH RATING:</strong> 64</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

<em><strong>Diamond Dallas Page</strong></em><em> celebrates on the turnbuckles, playing to the crowd. What he doesn’t see, though, is a mountain of a man bulling through the crowd, stepping over the guardrail, and hopping into the ring!</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/BFCo8n4.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “That’s <strong>Sid Vicious</strong>! And DDP has no idea he’s there!”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “The level of competition just changed around here, Mike!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Vicious lives up to his name, pounding DDP with haymakers as the crowd boos the assault. Sid then picks his target up, hoists him high in the air, and brings him down in a ring-shaking power bomb, one that lays Page out. Paramedics tend to him as Sid grabs the microphone.</em></p><p> </p><p>

SV: “Page! Consider this a week’s notice. I had a little chat with your buddy <strong>Dusty Rhodes</strong>. You see…I’m in the SSW World Championship tournament. And my first match is next week…against YOU. So if you want that title, you’ll have to conquer the master…and the ruler…of the WORLD!!!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Sid spikes the microphone down and gets in a few stomps as he storms to the back.</em></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Well, that’s six of eight spots filled. Dusty said we’d know all eight combatants by the end of the night, and I can’t imagine any of them making the impact that Sid Vicious just did!”</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>SEGMENT RATING:</strong> 83</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/4Ej3a9q.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/MsgaSTp.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/7gHaFo1.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/LkwpTHA.jpg</span><p>

MAIN EVENT: Steve Austin and Goldberg vs. Triple H (w/Chyna) and Lex Luger (w/Jim Cornette)</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>The faces are at a considerable numbers disadvantage, and Chyna and Cornette pull out all the tricks in the proverbial book to keep their clients in the match. For more than 18 minutes, the talent of Austin and Goldberg is met by the evil cunning of their opponents in an even clash. As the crowd gets worked into a frenzy…</em></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Irish whip by Austin…and Luger hits Charles Robinson! Our referee is down, and this could get ugly quick.”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “You mean things could get FUN quick!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Indeed, Luger gets the upper hand on Austin and holds him in a full nelson. Chyna then rolls into the ring with brass knuckles on her hands. She winds up…BAM!!!</em></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Austin ducked! Austin ducked, and she hit Luger!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Goldberg clears Chyna out of the ring and levels a charging HHH with a spear, while Austin revives the referee! Robinson counts the pinball, and the crowd erupts.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>WINNERS:</strong> Steve Austin and Goldberg (pinfall)</p><p>

<strong>MATCH RATING:</strong> 79</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

<em><strong>HHH</strong></em><em> and </em><em><strong>Lex Luger</strong></em><em>, naturally, react badly to the circumstances that end the main event. They attack </em><em><strong>Steve Austin</strong></em><em> and </em><em><strong>Goldberg</strong></em><em>, and they get some company after a few minutes.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/Pp8mJBm.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “Oh, come on! What’s <strong>Jeff Jarrett</strong> doing here?!”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “Making a name for himself, that’s what!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Jarrett rolls into the ring and quickly strikes a deal with HHH and Luger before stomping away at Austin and Goldberg. The crowd roars when reinforcements come, but said reinforcements are more than a bit wounded.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/KRH4pFD.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “There’s <strong>Diamond Dallas Page</strong>, but he’s clearly not 100% after what happened following his match…OH, COME ON!”</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/BFCo8n4.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>DDP hasn’t even gotten to the ring when </em><em><strong>Sid Vicious</strong></em><em> storms out and re-engages. This time, Page returns fire, and the fight spills into the ring.</em></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “These seven men are beating the living daylights out of each other! Are they even going to make it to the tournament to crown a World Champion?”</p><p> </p><p>

JV: “Whoever is saving himself is the smartest man of the bunch…”</p><p> </p><p>

Suddenly, hard rock music hits, and the fans come to their feet as the eighth man reveals himself by running to the ring at full-speed.</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/b0A62zw.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

JV: “I IMMEDIATELY RETRACT MY STATEMENT! WHAT IS THIS FACE-PAINTED BUFFOON DOING HERE?!?!”</p><p> </p><p>

MT: “I think we’ve just found the eighth man, and he’s here to even up the odds!”</p><p> </p><p>

<em><strong>The Ultimate Warrior</strong></em><em> joins Austin, Goldberg, and Page on one side of the ring, while HHH, Luger, Sid, and Jarrett line up on the other. After a moment, the group of eight converges in the ring, all swinging wildly as the crowd erupts. Security runs out in a futile attempt to separate the combatants.</em></p><p> </p><p>

MT: “What a way to end the first edition of ‘SSW Mayhem!,’ and with this, we’re out of time! For Jesse Ventura, I’m Mike Tenay. Join us next week for the start of the World Championship tournament!”</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>SEGMENT RATING:</strong> 87</p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating:</strong> 80</p><p>

<strong>TV Rating:</strong> 30.79</p><p>

<strong>Increased Popularity:</strong> 15 regions</p><p>

<strong>Lost Popularity:</strong> 11 regions</p>

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BOOKING MEETING: June 1998, Week #2

 

It's morning, and Dusty Rhodes is waiting patiently for the rest of the members of his booking committee. The first episode of "SSW Mayhem!" was solid, albeit unspectacular, and it's left "The American Dream" anxious to get back at it ahead of the show's second broadcast. In front of him sits a full piece of paper, complete with notes composed in chicken-scratch handwriting.

 

http://i.imgur.com/TnN95xM.jpg

 

DR: "Where IS everyone?"

 

On cue, the four remaining members of the booking committee strut in, all carrying breakfast.

 

http://i.imgur.com/GM5AtzK.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/lMArTkZ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ekwqUR6.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/5lBoku5.jpg

 

DR: "Where have y'all been?"

 

Jesse Ventura: "Sue us. We figured you'd be downstairs at the diner."

 

DR: "What made you think that?!"

 

Jim Cornette: "Your entire gimmick the last 20 years, perhaps?!"

 

Dusty shakes his head as the other members of the booking committee share a hearty guffaw.

 

DR: "Okay, let's get down to business. Pat, what's up in the locker room?"

 

Pat Patterson: "Well, Goldberg mouthed off to me after the show. He thinks Vader doesn't resonate with the fans and that we should write him off."

 

DR: "Yeah, right. Vader's the easiest guy we can book. Next?"

 

PP: "We got a few contracts back that you'd sent out. Bob Backlund will be joining us..."

 

JC: "Bob Backlund?! He's almost as old as you are, Pat!"

 

DR: "I know, but he can still work. We could use him. What else?"

 

PP: "Fuerza Guerrera, Genichiro Tenryu, and Simon Diamond are all coming in on pay-per-appearance deals."

 

Charles Robinson: "Why pay-per-appearance deals?"

 

JV: (disgusted) "Oh, come on, Chuckie. Don't ask questions. The quicker we handle business, the quicker we can get on the road!"

 

DR: "Well, we don't intend on pushing any of them too heavy, at least right now. Guerrera and Tenryu are recognizable in countries where we've got TV distribution, and Diamond's an OK prospect. That all, Pat?"

 

PP: "Yep. Chuckie, what's up elsewhere?"

 

CR: "Well, NAWU is firing at us hard. They put on a Bret Hart-Chris Jericho match that got a 95 rating. Also, HPP is actively trying to push Sylvester Stallone as a main eventer. I don't know if any of you saw, but they're putting him with The Giant..."

 

Cornette laughs so hard he spits out his drink all over Dusty's desk.

 

JC: "Sorry, Dusty, but GOD, that's funny!"

 

CR: "It's pretty comical, actually. Anyway, that's all from me."

 

DR: "Alright, boys, let's hammer out this week's show. We've got a tournament to start."

 

The group of five huddles around Dusty's desk as our scene fades to black.

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<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">SSW MAYHEM!: June 1998, Week #2</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">PRE-SHOW</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. Lex Luger</p><p> </p><p>

Rick Martel vs. HHH</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">MAIN SHOW</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/b0A62zw.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/122pTB0.jpg</span><p>

Ultimate Warrior vs. Simon Diamond</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>The legendary Ultimate Warrior made headlines last week, showing up as the eighth and final entrant in the SSW World Championship Tournament. His first-round match is next week; here, he faces SSW debuter Simon Diamond, a hot prospect with plenty of talent (and an ego to match!).</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/xPJg44z.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/ubGveVr.jpg</span><p>

Genichiro Tenryu vs. Rick Rude</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>World-renowned for his in-ring prowess, veteran Genichiro Tenryu will make his SSW debut this Wednesday night. In doing so, he'll face a man who is making his in-ring return after several years on the sidelines. That's Rick Rude, who made a splash last week when costing Dean Malenko his match with Jeff Jarrett!</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/AyFKIRx.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/SEXaVNb.jpg</span><p>

Dean Malenko vs. Fuerza Guerrera</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Dean Malenko is understandably angry about being robbed in his match last week, but he mustn't lose focus. Across the ring from him Wednesday night will be Mexican legend Fuerza Guerrera, himself no stranger to using dirty tactics to win matches. This one has the potential to be a technical wrestling clinic, and you won't want to miss it!</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/rcWJ0uC.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/rsjTdti.jpg</span><p>

Jake Roberts vs. Fit Finlay</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Jake "The Snake" Roberts agreed to be one of Dusty Rhodes's representatives in the challenge laid down by Jim Cornette, and he'll make his SSW debut this week against someone else who loves a good fight. That's Fit Finlay, who won the very first televised match in SSW history when defeating Dos Caras.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/MsgaSTp.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/KIUtZ9c.jpg</span><p>

Goldberg vs. Bob Backlund</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Like Warrior, Goldberg will have to wait another week for his tournament match. In order to quench his thirst for in-ring violence, he'll go up against SSW newcomer and former world champion Bob Backlund, long considered one of the world's premier mat wrestlers!</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/KRH4pFD.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/BFCo8n4.jpg</span><p>

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Diamond Dallas Page vs. Sid Vicious</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>The first half of our co-main event sees Diamond Dallas Page taking on the fearsome Sid Vicious. Vicious and Page brawled twice last week, and it's safe to say that their first official in-ring encounter will be a true battle, especially with a spot in the SSW World Championship Tournament semifinals on the line!</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/4Ej3a9q.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/Pp8mJBm.jpg</span><p>

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Steve Austin vs. Jeff Jarrett</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Jeff Jarrett escaped last week after a show-stealing match with Dean Malenko, but the going doesn't get much tougher than what he'll face on Wednesday night. His opponent in the SSW World Championship Tournament is "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, a man who would love nothing more than to be the first world champion in company history!</em></p><p> </p><p>

-----</p><p> </p><p>

Here's the prediction form. As usual, bold your picks, and submit any and all comments you may have (including feedback on the thread to this point!). I'm hoping to have a writeup up tomorrow or Monday, so get those predictions in if you want to play!</p><p> </p><p>

Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. Lex Luger</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Rick Martel vs. HHH</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Ultimate Warrior vs. Simon Diamond</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Genichiro Tenryu vs. Rick Rude</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Dean Malenko vs. Fuerza Guerrera</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Jake Roberts vs. Fit Finlay</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Goldberg vs. Bob Backlund</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Diamond Dallas Page vs. Sid Vicious</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Steve Austin vs. Jeff Jarrett</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Other comments:</p>

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<p>Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. <strong>Lex Luger</strong></p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Rick Martel vs. <strong>HHH</strong></p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Ultimate Warrior</strong> vs. Simon Diamond</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

Genichiro Tenryu vs. <strong>Rick Rude</strong></p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Dean Malenko</strong> vs. Fuerza Guerrera</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Jake Roberts</strong> vs. Fit Finlay</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Goldberg</strong> vs. Bob Backlund</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Diamond Dallas Page</strong> vs. Sid Vicious</p><p>

Comments:</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Steve Austin</strong> vs. Jeff Jarrett</p><p>

Comments:</p>

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SSW MAYHEM!: June 1998, Week #2

Location: Greensboro Coliseum

Attendance: 16,917

 

PRE-SHOW

 

MATCH #1: Lex Luger defeated Tiger Mask in 8:13 via submission with the Torture Rack. MATCH RATING: 59.

 

MATCH #2: HHH pinned Rick Martel in 13:09 after a Pedigree. MATCH RATING: 79.

 

- - - - -

 

Following a pyrotechnic display in the arena, our show kicks off with a shot of the parking garage, where a pickup truck pulls in at a high rate of speed. The truck stops, and out walks “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.

 

http://i.imgur.com/4Ej3a9q.jpg

 

Mike Tenay: “There he is! Steve Austin will compete in the first round of the SSW World Championship Tournament tonight, and he looks as focused as ever…”

 

Suddenly, he stops in his tracks as a familiar face shows up wearing a cowboy hat.

 

http://i.imgur.com/Pp8mJBm.jpg

 

Jeff Jarrett: “Hello, Steve.”

 

SA: “What the hell do you want?”

 

JJ: “Now that’s no way to treat somebody who’s about to give you the opportunity of a lifetime. Not sure if you’re aware, but I was born to be a star in this business. Tonight, I get my chance to take a big step down that road, except you’re the sucker standing in my way. So here’s what I’m gonna do. I’ll give you one chance and one chance only to get back in that truck, turn around, and save yourself from a whipping.”

 

SA: “So you’re saying all I’ve gotta do to save myself is leave the building? Hmm…”

 

Austin goes to his truck, but not to the driver’s side door. Instead, he pulls a steel chair out of the bed of the truck and whacks Jarrett over the head!

 

SA: “Son, you picked the WRONG guy to mess with. I’ll finish this later tonight.”

 

Austin leaves Jarrett in a heap outside the building as he storms off, with a steel chair still in his hand.

 

Jesse Ventura: “What ELSE does he have in that truck? I demand an investigation!”

 

SEGMENT RATING: 83

 

- - - - -

 

http://i.imgur.com/b0A62zw.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/122pTB0.jpg

Ultimate Warrior vs. Simon Diamond

 

Simon Diamond made his SSW debut here, but ran up against a juggernaut. Warrior looked tremendous in preparing for the SSW World Championship Tournament, and he finished things off quickly, pinning the newcomer in 3:37 following a press slam and big splash.

 

WINNER: Ultimate Warrior (pinfall)

MATCH RATING: 46

 

- - - - -

 

Ultimate Warrior celebrates his victory, but the celebration is short-lived, as two familiar faces rush in from the back.

 

http://i.imgur.com/7gHaFo1.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/LkwpTHA.jpg

 

MT: “Oh, what are THEY doing here?”

 

JV: “Doing a public service, that’s what! That face-painted buffoon has no business being here.”

 

HHH and Lex Luger hit the ring and double-team their target, beating him down to the mat as the crowd’s cheers turn to raucous boos and catcalls. The beatdown continues for several moments, but reinforcements come to even the odds.

 

http://i.imgur.com/MsgaSTp.jpg

 

MT: “That’s Goldberg! Goldberg is…”

 

JV: “…ruining the best part of the evening!”

 

Goldberg chases HHH and Luger off, helping Warrior to his feet as he taunts the attackers fleeing up the ramp.

 

MT: “There are no allies once the tournament starts, but Goldberg did the right thing and helped Warrior fend off HHH and Luger!”

 

JV: “The right thing?! Have you no decency, Tenay?!?!”

 

SEGMENT RATING: 86

 

- - - - -

 

http://i.imgur.com/xPJg44z.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ubGveVr.jpg

Genichiro Tenryu vs. Rick Rude

 

Tenryu turned plenty of heads in his SSW debut, showing why he’s one of the most respected grapplers in the entire world. However, for every tactic Tenryu tried, Rude had an answer, and he made his in-ring return a winning one at 10:08 following a Rude Awakening.

 

WINNER: Rick Rude (pinfall)

MATCH RATING: 65

 

- - - - -

 

Rick Rude gets his hand raised in victory, but out from under the ring comes a man in search of vengeance.

 

http://i.imgur.com/AyFKIRx.jpg

 

MT: “That’s Dean Malenko! Rude cost him his match last week against Jeff Jarrett, and he’s come out looking for payback!”

 

Malenko and Rude trade blows, battering one another around the ring with stiff shots until familiar southern rock music hits. At that point, SSW owner and president Dusty Rhodes walks out, microphone in hand.

 

http://i.imgur.com/TnN95xM.jpg

 

DR: “Guys, guys, guys. I know you two want a piece of one another. But Dean, you’ve got a match coming up, and I need you healthy. So I’m going to make this interesting. Y’all know about the World Championship Tournament that starts tonight. However, I’m also gonna start a tournament for the SSW North American title, and fellas, you’re both in it…but on opposite sides of the bracket. You want a piece of one another? Get to the finals, and we’ll make it happen.

 

“Now Rick, get outta there. Dean, since you’re already here, let’s get your match started.”

 

SEGMENT RATING: 69

 

- - - - -

 

http://i.imgur.com/AyFKIRx.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/SEXaVNb.jpg

Dean Malenko vs. Fuerza Guerrera

 

Dean delivered his typical world-class effort, and despite his advanced age, SSW newcomer Fuerza Guerrera kept up pretty well, delivering one of the top matches of the entire night. The end, though, came at 10:01, when a Guerrera hurricanrana was reversed into Malenko’s trademark Texas Cloverleaf, which produced a submission.

 

WINNER: Dean Malenko (submission)

MATCH RATING: 76

 

- - - - -

 

Backstage, our cameras catch three strong, stubborn women in the midst of an unintelligible shouting match in Dusty Rhodes’s office.

 

http://i.imgur.com/9kQmqBG.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/B5TQmA3.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QF2wmnp.jpg

 

Finally, after several seconds of uninterrupted shouting, Dusty stands up and throws his hat across the room.

 

DR: “Ladies! You’re givin’ me a headache! Now. You all clearly think you’re the best women’s wrestler in the world. There’s only one way to prove that. Next week, you three, plus Selina Majors and Toshie Uematsu, will compete in a five-way match. The winner of that match becomes the first-ever SSW Women’s Champion. The rest of you will all get a chance to compete for a title shot at the SSW Fan Festival next month. Now, if you’re going to fight, do it outside my office.”

 

Chyna, Madusa Micelli, and Luna Vachon all leave, immediately resuming their shouting match in the hallway as Dusty shakes his head.

 

SEGMENT RATING: 58

 

- - - - -

 

http://i.imgur.com/rcWJ0uC.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/rsjTdti.jpg

Jake Roberts vs. Fit Finlay

 

For various reasons, this match was difficult to watch. Most notably, it was very clear from the outset that Jake Roberts was under the influence of alcohol and hard drugs. That the match didn’t stink up the joint is a credit to Finlay, who somehow kept things moving amidst trying circumstances. Roberts did come out on top (as booked), defeating Finlay at 10:13 following a DDT.

 

WINNER: Jake Roberts (pinfall)

MATCH RATING: 61

 

- - - - -

 

Jake Roberts struggles to get to his feet, but his hand is raised. However, he’s joined by several antagonists that, given the circumstances, actually get some cheers from the crowd.

 

http://i.imgur.com/ekwqUR6.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/nMwtwFQ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/qEVApab.jpg

 

MT: “Oh god. Here comes Jim Cornette with his lackeys Vader and Bam Bam Bigelow.”

 

JV: “For obvious reasons, I’m glad to see them!”

 

The numbers advantage proves too much for Roberts, and it’s not hard to see Vader and Bam Bam being a little stiff with their shots. After a minute, though, a fellow legend of the ring runs out.

 

http://i.imgur.com/Y4Aa52K.jpg

 

MT: “Here comes Terry Funk! The hardcore legend is here!”

 

JV: “Is he here to HELP Jake Roberts? The old man’s lost his marbles!”

 

Funk grabs a chair from ringside and swings wildly, sending the big men out of the ring to regroup.

 

MT: “Well, Jake DID say he’d find a tag team partner, and it looks like he’s got one!”

 

JV: “Yeah, but right now, I think Jake’s got MANY bigger things to worry about.”

 

SEGMENT RATING: 69

 

- - - - -

 

http://i.imgur.com/MsgaSTp.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/KIUtZ9c.jpg

Goldberg vs. Bob Backlund

 

Those who may be unfamiliar with Bob Backlund got a glimpse of his technical genius here. He actually put up a fair fight for a while against his younger rival, showcasing several of his world-renowned submission moves in an attempt to outfox his powerful opponent. However, Goldberg gained the upper hand, and drove Backlund down for good at 9:37 with a spear and Jackhammer.

 

WINNER: Goldberg (pinfall)

MATCH RATING: 70

 

- - - - -

 

Following the match, we once again see an unfriendly face running to ringside.

 

http://i.imgur.com/LkwpTHA.jpg

 

MT: “What’s he doing back here? Hasn’t he done enough tonight?”

 

JV: “Not at all whatsoever! This guy really IS the total package, and Goldberg robbed him of a chance to show his skills!”

 

Lex Luger hits the ring and targets Goldberg’s left leg, which was the subject of several of Backlund’s submission moves. As such, Goldberg goes down, and Luger hammers away to the disdain of the paying audience. Security finally separates them, and Luger pulls out a microphone.

 

LL: “Goldberg, I paved the way for guys like you. I left money on the table from a football career so I could wrestle. And I won’t allow you to think you can come here and do whatever you want.

 

“Your tournament starts next week…against me!”

 

Luger spikes the microphone down and gets in a few more stomps to the leg before leaving.

 

SEGMENT RATING: 87

 

- - - - -

 

Backstage, we see Jesse Ventura surrounded on both sides by Diamond Dallas Page and Sid Vicious.

 

http://i.imgur.com/KRH4pFD.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/lMArTkZ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/BFCo8n4.jpg

 

JV: “This is being filmed Wednesday afternoon, and I’ve been asked to interview DDP and Sid ahead of their tournament matchup tonight. First question goes to Page: How do you expect to match up with Sid’s brute strength?”

 

DDP: “Let me tell you something, Jesse. That oaf hit me with a power bomb last week, and it HURT. I’m not going to stand here and tell you he’s not strong, not a threat, and not on my level. But I’ve got the hottest finisher on the planet, the Diamond Cutter. Sid, you’ll never see it coming, no matter how hard you try to look.”

 

JV: “Sid, Page has never been shy with his mouth. How do you intend to shut him up?”

 

SV: “Page, last week was just the beginning. You think that’s all I’ve got? Tonight, I’m going to dismantle you. I’m going to tear you apart limb from limb. And tonight, I’m going to put the fear of God in the hearts of everyone else in this tournament.”

 

DDP: “Fear is a powerful thing, Sid. Except I’m not scared of you. No matter how strong you are, no matter how hard you try, you can’t psych me out. But by all means, keep thinking that you can. I’ll see you out there tonight. Be ready.”

 

Page storms off, and Sid stares a hole into Jesse’s head as we come back to ringside.

 

SEGMENT RATING: 87

 

- - - - -

 

http://i.imgur.com/KRH4pFD.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/BFCo8n4.jpg

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One

Diamond Dallas Page vs. Sid Vicious

 

As foreshadowed in the interview, Page attempted to wrestle a thinking man’s match while dealing with a vicious (no pun intended), powerful onslaught from Sid. Several attempts at reversals into Diamond Cutters were unsuccessful, and after Page was crotched on the top turnbuckle, Sid delivered an impressive power bomb for the pinball at 9:44, advancing him to the tournament’s semifinal round.

 

WINNER: Sid Vicious (pinfall)

MATCH RATING: 71

 

- - - - -

 

http://i.imgur.com/4Ej3a9q.jpghttp://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Pp8mJBm.jpg

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One

Steve Austin vs. Jeff Jarrett

 

This match had a lot to live up to after the show-opening segment, and it delivered in spades. Austin brought his usual stellar performance, Jarrett was game, and the two got plenty of time to work a strong, physical match, one that ended at 17:40 when Austin hit a stunner to send the crowd home happy.

 

WINNER: Steve Austin (pinfall)

MATCH RATING: 86

 

- - - - -

 

After the match, Steve Austin does his usual beer-swilling celebration, posing on every turnbuckle. The crowd eats it up, but one person in the locker room is having none of it.

 

http://i.imgur.com/BFCo8n4.jpg

 

MT: “Steve Austin and Sid Vicious will meet in the semifinals of the SSW World Championship Tournament, and it’s pretty clear they don’t like each other.”

 

JV: “We’ll see the other two first-round matches next week, but Mike, this one is gonna be a LOT of fun to look forward to!”

 

Sid climbs into the ring, going chest-to-chest with Austin…who promptly flips him off. This sparks a brawl that quickly brings out SSW security, and for the second straight week, the show ends with brawling combatants being separated from one another as the crowd roars in anticipation!

 

SEGMENT RATING: 88

 

- - - - -

 

Show Rating: 84

TV Rating: 32.84

Increased Popularity: 30 Regions

Lost Popularity: 0 Regions

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<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">EMERGENCY STAFF MEETING</span></strong></p></div><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>After "SSW Mayhem!," the creative team hastily assembles in a back room of the Greensboro Coliseum, with the exception of </em><em><strong>Dusty Rhodes</strong></em><em>, who has yet to arrive.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/GM5AtzK.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/lMArTkZ.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/ekwqUR6.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/5lBoku5.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Charles Robinson:</strong> "What are we gonna do?"</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Pat Patterson:</strong> "From where I sit, there's not much we CAN do, besides the obvious."</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Jim Cornette:</strong> "That guy's had a LOT of demons for a very long time. He convinced Dusty he was over them, and your guess is as good as mine as to if Dusty will keep him around."</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Jesse Ventura:</strong> "I sure wouldn't. We've got enough issues going up against every other promotion in the world right now. The last thing we need is an issue with one of our guys not being able to stay clean."</p><p> </p><p>

<em>On that note, SSW's owner and president walks in, and the room gets eerily quiet.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/TnN95xM.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Dusty Rhodes:</strong> "OK. I've come to my decision."</p><p> </p><p>

<em>A pause.</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: "I'm not going to fire him. <strong>Jake Roberts</strong> made a big mistake tonight showing up wasted. I'm gonna give him a chance to go to rehab and get clean. He'll be away from us for four months, and hopefully, he comes back with his head on straight."</p><p> </p><p>

JV: (under his breath) "Don't bet the house on it."</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Dusty shoots Jesse a dirty look. Jake's a friend of his, and it's clear this hasn't been easy on "The American Dream."</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: "Now, we're in need of a guy to fill in for him leading up to the SSW Fan Festival. He was supposed to tag with <strong>Terry Funk</strong> against <strong>Vader</strong> and <strong>Bam Bam Bigelow</strong>. I think I've got that under control. Pat, did you get the email I forwarded you?"</p><p> </p><p>

PP: "Yes, I did. It's not a perfect fit, but he'll be fine."</p><p> </p><p>

DR: "OK. Also, I saw <strong>Fit Finlay</strong> was really angry when he came back."</p><p> </p><p>

JC: "Justifiably so. He did a heck of a job carrying Jake out there."</p><p> </p><p>

DR: "I agree."</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Dusty pulls an envelope out of his pocket.</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: "Charles, go into the locker room and give this to him. That oughta satisfy him for the time being."</p><p> </p><p>

<em>Charles nods and heads out of the room.</em></p><p> </p><p>

DR: "Alright, I think that's it. It's been a stressful night. Let's all head to the hotel and get some shut-eye. We'll meet in the morning."</p><p> </p><p>

<em>The remaining members of the committee exit, and Dusty shakes his head as our scene fades to black.</em></p>

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<p><strong>BREAKING NEWS:</strong> Ahead of SSW's third week of operations, the company has come to terms with <strong>Mascara Sagrada</strong> on a pay-per-appearance deal. He'll make his debut on the pre-show of "SSW Mayhem!," which will originate this week from the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado.</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">SSW Mayhem!: June 1998, Week #3</span></strong></p><p> </p><p>

PRE-SHOW</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

Match #1: Dos Caras/Mascara Sagrada vs. Bobby Eaton/Brad Armstrong</p><p> </p><p>

Match #2: Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. Jeff Jarrett</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>MAIN SHOW</p><p> </p><p>

<span>http://i.imgur.com/9kQmqBG.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/B5TQmA3.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/QF2wmnp.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/qdvTrei.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/y5jZGJu.jpg</span></p><p>

SSW Women's Championship</p><p>

Chyna vs. Madusa Micelli vs. Luna Vachon vs. Selina Majors vs. Toshie Uematsu</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>For the first time ever, an SSW championship belt will be on the line! The five members of SSW's women's division will go at it, with the victor earning the SSW Women's Championship.</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/ALtHVPj.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/rsjTdti.jpg</span><p>

SSW North American Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Rick Martel vs. Fit Finlay</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Two of the world's most renowned, respected veterans will lock up in the first round of the North American Championship Tournament. Technicians Rick Martel and Fit Finlay will do battle, with one advancing to the semifinals to face the winner of our next matchup...</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/AyFKIRx.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/KIUtZ9c.jpg</span><p>

SSW North American Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Dean Malenko vs. Bob Backlund</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>In another encounter sure to please fans of world-class technical wrestling, Dean Malenko will battle Bob Backlund. Backlund held his own with Goldberg last week, while Malenko is on a mission to firmly establish himself as the top mat wrestler in the world!</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/Y4Aa52K.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/nMwtwFQ.jpg</span><p>

Falls Count Anywhere</p><p>

Terry Funk vs. Vader (w/Jim Cornette)</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>With news that Jake Roberts has been sent to rehab, Terry Funk will go it alone this week, and his task is not an easy one. Standing in his way is the monstrous Vader, and this falls count anywhere match is sure to be a war!</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/b0A62zw.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/7gHaFo1.jpg</span><p>

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Ultimate Warrior vs. HHH (w/Chyna)</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>In a rematch of Wrestlemania XII, Ultimate Warrior will look to keep his momentum going against HHH, the ultimate degenerate! The winner earns a spot in the tournament semifinals against the winner of...</em></p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://i.imgur.com/MsgaSTp.jpg</span><span>http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/shawkes/USPW_14/VS.jpg</span><span>http://i.imgur.com/LkwpTHA.jpg</span><p>

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Goldberg vs. Lex Luger (w/Jim Cornette)</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>

<em>The war between these two has gotten heated and figures to come to a head this Wednesday night! Who will prevail in a main event that features two true powerhouses?</em></p><p> </p><p>

- - - - -</p><p> </p><p>

Prediction form; as usual, bold your projected winner! I'd like to run something where the winner over a period of time gets something, and if we have the interest, I'll do that!</p><p> </p><p>

Dos Caras/Mascara Sagrada vs. Bobby Eaton/Brad Armstrong</p><p> </p><p>

Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. Jeff Jarrett</p><p> </p><p>

SSW Women's Championship</p><p>

Chyna vs. Madusa Micelli vs. Luna Vachon vs. Selina Majors vs. Toshie Uematsu</p><p> </p><p>

SSW North American Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Rick Martel vs. Fit Finlay</p><p> </p><p>

SSW North American Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Dean Malenko vs. Bob Backlund</p><p> </p><p>

Falls Count Anywhere</p><p>

Terry Funk vs. Vader (w/Jim Cornette)</p><p> </p><p>

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Ultimate Warrior vs. HHH (w/Chyna)</p><p> </p><p>

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Goldberg vs. Lex Luger (w/Jim Cornette)</p>

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<p>Dos Caras/Mascara Sagrada vs. <strong>Bobby Eaton/Brad Armstrong</strong></p><p> </p><p>

Tiger Mask IV (w/Percy Pringle) vs. <strong>Jeff Jarrett</strong></p><p> </p><p>

SSW Women's Championship</p><p>

<strong>Chyna</strong> vs. Madusa Micelli vs. Luna Vachon vs. Selina Majors vs. Toshie Uematsu</p><p> </p><p>

SSW North American Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Rick Martel vs. <strong>Fit Finlay</strong></p><p> </p><p>

SSW North American Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

<strong>Dean Malenko</strong> vs. Bob Backlund</p><p> </p><p>

Falls Count Anywhere</p><p>

Terry Funk vs. <strong>Vader (w/Jim Cornette)</strong></p><p> </p><p>

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

Ultimate Warrior vs. <strong>HHH (w/Chyna)</strong></p><p> </p><p>

SSW World Championship Tournament: Round One</p><p>

<strong>Goldberg</strong> vs. Lex Luger (w/Jim Cornette)</p>

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