WWF '94: New Stars Rising

ZigZagMan · January 9, 2019

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WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER

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Here are some interesting tidbit's from Dave Meltzer in his 'Wrestling Observer Newsletter'...

<ul><li>The World Wrestling Federation continues to sweep information under the rug after one of their top superstars tested positive for steroids last week. After speaking to sources inside the promotion it has been confirmed that this superstar was also one of the WWF stars popped for failing a drug test last week. This is a troubling trend that the WWF will no doubt try to avoid leaking to the media. </li><li>Bam Bam Bigelow has officially agreed to terms on a contract extension with the WWF. Bigelow remains one of the top in-ring performers the company has and continues to cement himself as a strong heel presence. </li><li>Fans hoping for a reunion of the World Wrestling Federation and 'Macho Man' Randy Savage will be very disappointed to see that the wrestling legend will officially leave the WWF at the end of the week. It would be a major surprise if he didn't head down south and find a place on the World Championship Wrestling roster. </li><li>It appears the World Wrestling Federation will be taking The Headshrinkers in a different direction as was rumored before with Samu leaving the company over the weekend at the end of his contract. Look for the WWF to bring in a new tag team partner of Fatu, who the company remains very fond of. Fatu will be managed by Captain Lou Albano who signed a pay-per-appearance contract extension this week. </li><li>The WWF is also officially parting ways with several other stars as the 'New Generation' roster continues to take shape. Jacques Rougeau, Johnny Polo, Bastion Booger, and Jim Powers will officially see their contracts end at the end of the week. </li><li>It's unclear what direction the WWF will take Quebecer Pierre going forward following the departure of Rougeau and Johnny Polo but some seem to think his upside is limited, including one prominent star who says Pierre "doesn't connect with the fans." </li><li>Typhoon was expected to be let go by the company but Vince McMahon stepped in and personally negotiated contract extension for the big man. </li><li>Monday Night RAW received outstanding reviews this week, posting a 3.48 TV rating and drawing over 14,000 fans to Las Vegas, NV. This last week's taping of WWF Superstars received a 0.33 rating. </li></ul>

BHK1978 · January 10, 2019

Damn all of those firings are harsh.

At least Johhny Polo can go to ECW and become Raven.

Shocked that Vince wanted you to keep Typhoon.

ZigZagMan · January 10, 2019

Just trimming the fat! Or at least trying to as I'm not sure what to do with Typhoon. Thanks, Vince!

ZigZagMan · January 10, 2019

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TATANKA VS. THE BROOKLYN BRAWLER

In a poor match, Tatanka defeated Brooklyn Brawler in 5:45 by pinfall with a Tomohawk Chop.

MATCH RATING: 62 C

MONDAY NIGHT RAW RECAP

Jim Ross and Vince McMahon recap another exciting episode of Monday Night RAW where we saw the 1-2-3 Kid answer a challenge from Diesel following the Kid and Razor Ramon's tag team victory over the Quebecers, Jeff Jarrett attacking Mabel from behind costing him his match against Yokozuna, and Lex Luger attacking Bret 'Hitman' Hart from behind following his World Heavyweight Title defense against Bam Bam Bigelow.

SEGMENT RATING: 88 B+

BOB 'SPARK PLUG' HOLLY & DUKE 'THE DUMPSTER' DROESE VS. WELL DUNN

In a terrible match, Bob Holly and Duke Droese defeated Well Dunn in 8:17 when Bob Holly defeated Timothy Well by pinfall with a Dropkick.

MATCH RATING: 53 C-

MABEL JOINS 'THE HEARTBREAK HOTEL'

Shawn Michaels hosts another edition of 'The Heartbreak Hotel' with special guest Mabel who has strong words for 'Double J' Jeff Jarrett. "Double J! You look like the kind of person who can't stand it when other people are having a good time. Well let me tell you something, I LOVE having a good time, and it just so happens that my idea of a good time involves tossing around guys like you! You may have made a major mistake, but you seem like a smart fella, Double J. So I highly recommend, you make Monday night, the last time you cross paths with me!"

SEGMENT RATING: 82 B

ADAM BOMB VS. CRUSH

In a poor match, Adam Bomb defeated Crush in 10:44 when Crush was disqualified when Yokozuna ran in and attacked Adam Bomb.

MATCH RATING: 60 C

FOLLOWING THE MATCH...

Yokozuna continues his assault on Adam Bomb after the match, delivering a Samoan drop, a huge leg drop, and dragging Bomb to the corner where he delivers not one, not two, but three Bonsai Drops! Jim Cornette finds a camera to deliver a message. "Take a look everybody, you see Crush there in that ring? Let me introduce you to 'Crushed!' Hahahaha!"

SEGMENT RATING: 94 A

THE SMOKING GUNNS VS. THE NEW FOUNDATION

In a decent match, The New Foundation defeated The Smoking Gunns in 9:33 when Owen Hart defeated Bart Gunn by pinfall by using underhanded tactics.

MATCH RATING: 76 B-

WWF SUPERSTARS RATING: 78 B

Bigelow Cartwheel · January 10, 2019

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="ZigZagMan" data-cite="ZigZagMan" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="46048" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Just trimming the fat! Or at least trying to as I'm not sure what to do with Typhoon. Thanks, Vince!</div></blockquote> I think you do. Get a misfitting helmet and a whole load of tinfoil.....

ZigZagMan · January 10, 2019

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Bigelow Cartwheel" data-cite="Bigelow Cartwheel" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="46048" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I think you do. Get a misfitting helmet and a whole load of tinfoil.....</div></blockquote> That would definitely be shocking!

ZigZagMan · January 11, 2019

UPDATED ROSTER - BEGINNING OF OCTOBER 1994

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Bigelow Cartwheel · January 11, 2019

Wahay, Sione!

ZigZagMan · January 11, 2019

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BHK1978 · January 12, 2019

I forgot how bad some of the folks that were on the roster were back then...

Undertaker

Diesel

Headshrinkers

Texasrangers13 · January 12, 2019

I think Tune In! has a decent shot!

Undertaker

Diesel

Headshrinkers

Love the presentation. Also love the fact that PCO is kicking around WWF at this time... makes me laugh to see the resurrection his career has had of late.

Lord Byron · January 12, 2019

Here's one wrestler I hope the WWF gets in this diary: Paul Wight, aka the Big Show. IRL, he sent an audition tape to Mike Chioda around this time (if not earlier) and Chioda sent it to Pat Patterson, who didn't watch the tape because he mistook Wight for another wrestler, Kurrgan; it wasn't until Wight debuted in WCW that he realized his error, to Vince McMahon's displeasure.

If Wight goes to the WWF at this point, at least he avoids his initial booking as Andre the Giant's son in WCW (when Scott Hall asked him about it when he was inducted into the NWO, Wight shot him a look that said "Don't ask that ever AGAIN!!!")…

Heck, I can see him going to upper midcard, if booked properly...

Waiting for more...

ZigZagMan · January 15, 2019

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Texasrangers13" data-cite="Texasrangers13" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="46048" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I think Tune In! has a decent shot! Undertaker Diesel Headshrinkers Love the presentation. Also love the fact that PCO is kicking around WWF at this time... makes me laugh to see the resurrection his career has had of late.</div></blockquote> Thanks for the kind words. Pierre is definitely still kicking. I extended Jacques Rougeau's run between he and The Quebecers because I feel like I'm lacking a true heel tag team that isn't just comprised of two singles wrestlers. I may start looking outside the WWF. <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Lord Byron" data-cite="Lord Byron" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="46048" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Here's one wrestler I hope the WWF gets in this diary: Paul Wight, aka the Big Show. IRL, he sent an audition tape to Mike Chioda around this time (if not earlier) and Chioda sent it to Pat Patterson, who didn't watch the tape because he mistook Wight for another wrestler, Kurrgan; it wasn't until Wight debuted in WCW that he realized his error, to Vince McMahon's displeasure. If Wight goes to the WWF at this point, at least he avoids his initial booking as Andre the Giant's son in WCW (when Scott Hall asked him about it when he was inducted into the NWO, Wight shot him a look that said "Don't ask that ever AGAIN!!!")… Heck, I can see him going to upper midcard, if booked properly... Waiting for more...</div></blockquote> This is interesting stuff! I never knew that the WWF had Wight right under their noses. Vince loved his big monsters so I'm sure he was very upset after seeing what Wight went on to do in WCW. This is definitely something I'll keep in mind.

ZigZagMan · January 18, 2019

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“Welcome, everyone, to Albany, New York! Welcome, everyone, to Monday Night RAW! I’m Vince McMahon here with Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler and tonight we’re going to hear from World Heavyweight Champion Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart after he was attacked from behind last week by ‘The Million Dollar Champion’ Lex Luger!”

“I can’t wait to hear what Bret Hart has to say, McMahon. He’s avoided Luger as long as he possibly could but Luger is done playing nice and got a piece of the ‘Hitman’ last week!”

“We’re also going to see ‘Big Daddy Cool’ Diesel in action as he’ll take on the 1-2-3 Kid!”

“There must be nothing but cobwebs inside the skull of the Kid because he’s stepping into the ring in a match that he has no chance of winning!”

“Money, money, money, money, money…”

“Before that it looks like we’re going to be joined by ‘The Million Dollar Man’…”

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Ted DiBiase’s music hits and he makes his way down to the ring with four members of the Million Dollar Corporation. The WWF Tag Team Champions Bam Bam Bigelow and Irwin R. Schyster walk behind him along with King Kong Bundy and Nikolai Volkoff. The lights are dim and green dollar signs light up the aisle as a video package of the Corporation shows on the large video screen which stands at the entrance.

The all make their way into the ring, taking turns taunting the crowd and DiBiase grabs a microphone.

<div style="text-align:center;">“Each and every week, my Million Dollar Corporation cements itself as the most dominant force in the World Wrestling Federation. Take a look at the men that stand before you. You might notice that one man, who made an impactful statement last week couldn’t be with us tonight. Lex Luger is a man who can take care of business on his own. He couldn’t be with us tonight because I’ve put him in touch with some very powerful people whom he’s rubbing elbows with as we speak. But I want you to take a look at each man in this ring. What you see is a group of men who are very capable of taking care of business.”</div>

The camera gives a close up of the face of each man. Bam Bam and King Kong Bundy looking menacing, I.R.S. looking as smug as usual, and Nikolai Volkoff who stands straight-faced, accepting of his circumstances which has led to his ownership by ‘The Million Dollar Man.’

<div style="text-align:center;">“As someone who has had more success than any one of you poor, needy people sitting in this arena, I can recognize that you have all failed in your lives. You have failed time and time again. Look at you! But I’m not like you. Oh no, I can’t stand having unfinished business and as I stand here today, there is unfinished business that needs to be taken care of and I’m talking to you Undertaker. Tonight, one of my men will take care of business once and for all. Will it be Bam Bam Bigelow? How about I.R.S.? No. King Kong Bundy! Hahahahaha, not tonight. I’m going to prove the power of the Corporation by calling on a man who is on the lowest rung of the Million Dollar Corporation’s ladder. Nikolai Volkoff…”</div>

Volkoff has an uncomfortable look in his eyes.

<div style="text-align:center;">“Nikolai, tonight you will step in the ring against The Undertaker and you will end him once and for all! Hahahahaha! And if you don’t, you’ll be right back on the street corner with a big cardboard sign that says ‘Will Work For Food!’ Hahahahaha….”</div>

DiBiase’s music hits again and they all leave the squared circle, with Volkoff being the last to exit.

“There you have it, ladies and gentlemen. Tonight we’ll see Nikolai Volkoff do the bidding of ‘The Million Dollar Man’ one more time as he attempts to put an end to The Undertaker’s reign of terror over the Million Dollar Corporation…”

<div style="text-align:center;">SEGMENT RATING: 86 B+

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The Heavenly Bodies stand in the ring as we return from commercial. The Headshrinkers music hits and the lights dim as Captain Lou Albano leads Fatu and his new partner Sione down to the ring. Fatu shouts in Samoan at the camera and sticks out his tongue. As they enter the ring, Albano walks around the ring and grabs a headset to do guest commentary for the match.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it’s Captain Lou Albano!” says Vince.

“That's right Vinnie, often imitated, never duplicated. It’s an absolute pleasure to join you! I can’t say the same for you, King.”

“Captain Lou, give us an update on your team, The Headshrinkers.”

“Vinnie, it’s terrible. Terrible, I tell ya! Poor Afa and Samu contracted a very serious illness and they’re back home in Samoa. I think it’s called ate-a-bad-a-fisha. But have no fear because Sione is here and The New Headshrinkers are going to pick up right where the old left off!”

In the ring, Fatu sizes up Jimmy Del Ray and as the bell rings, the two men lock up.

In a poor match, The New Headshrinkers defeated The Heavenly Bodies in 7:39 when Fatu defeated Jimmy Del Ray by pinfall with a Double Diving Headbutt.

Comments: The New Headshrinkers had a strong debut taking control early in this one and leaving little doubt they'd be victorious. It was also a strong showing for Sione who was the most impressive of the four men in the match.

<div style="text-align:center;">MATCH RATING: 55 C-

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“An impressive debut for The New Headshrinkers, Fatu and Sione! But right now let’s take you back to last week, where Lex Luger attacked Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart following his World Wrestling Federation Title match,” says McMahon.

After a video package is shown highlighting RAW last week, Bret Hart’s music hits and the crowd goes wild as he makes his way down the aisle in jeans and a leather jacket with his World Heavyweight Title belt slung over his shoulder. He hypes the crowd in the ring before hopping to the outside and putting his shades on the face of a little girl sitting at ringside.

Bret climbs back in the ring where Vince McMahon holds a microphone. Vince gets right down to business asking the ‘Hitman’ about Luger’s cheap shot last week.

<div style="text-align:center;">“Vince, last week we saw Lex Luger’s true colors. He’s no longer ‘Made in the USA.’ He’s no longer red, white, and blue. After last week, when I look at Lex Luger, the color I see is yellow. Last week I did what I set out to do and I defended this World Wrestling Heavyweight Title like I always do and I went toe-to-toe with one of the toughest men in the World Wrestling Federation, Bam Bam Bigelow. And after a long, hard-fought match, Luger attacked me from behind, and threw me up in the torture rack like I was a slab of meat! Luger, if you want a piece of me, you know where to find me. And if you want a shot at this title, all you have to do is ask because I never step down from a challenge, not from you, not from anybody! And when we do step in that ring, I’ll show you once and for all why I am the best there is, the best there was, the best there ever will be!”</div>

<div style="text-align:center;">SEGMENT RATING: 94 A

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We return as the 1-2-3 Kid’s theme music hits. He jogs down to the ring slapping the hands of the fans before hopping onto the ring apron then hurdling over the top rope. As he loosens up in the ring, the big Diesel horn blares and the cheers quickly turn to jeers.

Diesel slowly walks down the aisle, adjusting the fingerless glove on his right hand as he looks on at the ring with a cocky look on his face. He knows he’s got a big edge in this one. As he approaches the ring he climbs onto the apron then steps over the top rope. A spotlight shines on him as he raises a fist in before pulling off his leather jacket and tossing his hair back, glaring at the Kid.

The bell rings and the 1-2-3 Kid comes at him with everything he’s got delivering multiple kicks, then a spin kick which barely phases the 6’10” Diesel. Diesel grabs him by the head and neck with two hands, spins and hurls him into the corner.

In a decent match, 1-2-3 Kid defeated Diesel in 12:57 by pinfall after a distraction from Razor Ramon. During the match we also had Shawn Michaels run in and attack 1-2-3 Kid.

Comments: Diesel's size advantage predictably allowed him to dominate this contest but Shawn Michaels wouldn't sit back and leave any room for error. Unfortunately, Michaels would indirectly cost Diesel the match.

With the 1-2-3 Kid beginning to finally turn the tables, Shawn Michaels would run down to ringside and shove him off of the top rope behind the referees back sending the Kid crashing to the mat.

Razor Ramon would sprint down to ringside, chase Michaels around the outside of the ring and to the back. With Diesel distracted watching Michaels and Razor sprint through the curtain, the 1-2-3 Kid would take advantage rolling Diesel up for a quick pinfall to earn the upset victory before making a quick exit! Diesel would pound his hands on the mat before grabbing the shirt of the referee, yelling in his face!

<div style="text-align:center;">MATCH RATING: 72 B-

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"Let's see if our cameras can catch up with Razor Ramon and Shawn Michaels backstage!" shouts Vince.

A camera catches up with Razor Ramon who is walking through the halls of the building in search of Michaels.

Razor opens a door to one dressing room where the Smoking Gunns and Duke ‘The Dumpster’ Droese are playing cards at a table.

“Heartbreak Kid. Come on out, chico. Come get a piece of ‘The Bad Guy.’”

“He ain’t in here,” says Billy Gunn.

Razor continues down the hallway and opens another door where DiBiase is having a conversation with Bam Bam Bigelow and IRS.

“Hey, get out of here!" shouts Bigelow charging at the door.

Razor slams the door in Bigelow’s face with a loud thud! He keeps looking for Michaels as we go to commercial.

<div style="text-align:center;">SEGMENT RATING: 99 A+

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We return from the break with Nikolai Volkoff standing in the ring with ‘The Million Dollar Man.’ Suddenly, the lights go off and the bells begin to toll. Fog rolls from the entrance as purple lighting lights the aisle and the creepy organ of the Undertaker’s funeral march rings through the arena.

The fans wait in eager anticipation as Paul Bearer and The Undertaker emerge from the fog, causing a loud cheer from the crowd. Paul Bearer holds the urn high as The Undertaker walks slowly behind him. As they reach the ring steps he slowly climbs up and raises his arms bringing up the house lights. He steps in the ring and slowly removes his trench coat before tilting his head down and removing his hat. He stands glaring at Volkoff through the dark hair that hangs in his face. As he approaches the middle of the ring the bell rings and Volkoff immediately tries to throw a haymaker. The Undertaker blocks it and sends Volkoff back with a thrust to the throat!

In a decent match, The Undertaker defeated Nikolai Volkoff in 10:31 by pinfall with a Choke Slam.

Comments: Nikolai Volkoff used his power to punish the The Undertaker to the best of his ability in this one but eventually The Undertaker would prove to be too much for DiBiase's hired gun, earning the pinfall victory.

<div style="text-align:center;">MATCH RATING: 78 B

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As The Undertaker and Paul Bearer stand in the ring after the win there’s a commotion at the entrance. Shawn Michaels stumbles backward and begs off as Razor Ramon walks slowly after him, dusting off his hands and taunting 'The Heartbreak Kid.' Michaels makes his way back to his feet and slides in the ring, putting up his fists ready to tangle with Razor but backs right into The Undertaker! Michaels gets a fearful look on his face and slowly turns around, looking up at the grim face of the man from the dark side.

With Razor looking on, The Undertaker grabs Michaels by the throat and delivers a huge chokeslam!

“Oh my goodness! Shawn Michaels just got buried by The Undertaker! Fans we’ve gotta go! We’ll see you next week!” shouts Vince as the show ends.

<div style="text-align:center;">SEGMENT RATING: 99 A+

MONDAY NIGHT RAW RATING: 85 B+</div>

Armando Payne · January 19, 2019

I'm digging the look of this real good. One question, you say you're trimming the fat but how do you explain The Bushwhackers still being there?

ZigZagMan · January 19, 2019

Thanks! I don’t typically end contracts before they lapse but once The Bushwhackers contracts are up, they’ll likely walkabout into the sunset.

BHK1978 · January 21, 2019

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="ZigZagMan" data-cite="ZigZagMan" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="46048" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Thanks! I don’t typically end contracts before they lapse but once The Bushwhackers contracts are up, they’ll likely walkabout into the sunset.</div></blockquote> Out of curiosity, just how old are Luke and Butch in your game? They have to be in their late 40's early 50's right?

ZigZagMan · January 21, 2019

Luke is 47 and Butch is 49.

ZigZagMan · January 21, 2019

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WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER

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Here are some interesting tidbit's from Dave Meltzer in his 'Wrestling Observer Newsletter'...

Lex Luger's contract is set to expire at the end of the month, presenting a unique situation for the World Wrestling Federation to navigate. The WWF obviously wishes to keep Luger in the fold as they're currently pushing him as a top heel after his turn at SummerSlam, but could Luger's perceived greed give the WWF an out should he decide to look for a more lucrative contract from World Championship Wrestling? It's already known that Luger will be taking time off in 1995 to film a motion picture. This could get interesting!
Shawn Michaels voiced some heavy criticism of Mabel this past week, telling insiders that Mabel "can't sell worth a damn, in my opinion. He needs to learn how to work." Given his sway in the company, I think it's safe to say that we're not likely to see Michaels and Mabel lock up in the ring anytime soon.
Alundra Blayze has not found herself in the good graces of WWF management as she's physically let herself go. One source says she's looking "flabby" these days. The WWF hasn't actively been promoting the Women's Division, only using Blayze in house shows, and that doesn't appear likely to change anytime soon.
Sgt. Slaughter has taken Duke "The Dumpster" Droese and The Black Phantom under his wing.
The WWF has extended the contract of Jack Lanza who will remain with the company as a road agent.
Monday Night RAW received fantastic reviews this week, posting a 3.47 TV rating and drawing nearly 14,000 fans to Albany, NY. Last week's taping of WWF Superstars received a 0.32 rating as ratings for the show remain steady.

ZigZagMan · January 21, 2019

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BOB 'SPARKPLUG' HOLLY V. RICK 'THE MODEL' MARTEL

In a poor match, Bob Holly defeated Rick Martel in 9:54 by pinfall with a Dropkick.

MATCH RATING: 59 C

THE BRITISH BULLDOG CHECKS IN TO 'THE HEARTBREAK HOTEL'

Shawn Michaels introduces his special guest this week, 'The British Bulldog' Davey Boy Smith and asks him about his ongoing feud with Owen Hart. "Owen Hart, you're barking up the wrong tree, my good friend. But if it's a fight you want, then it's a fight you'll get, because this dog never backs down from a challenge!"

SEGMENT RATING: 92 A

A.C. CONNER VS. YOKOZUNA

In a decent match, Yokozuna defeated A.C. Conner in 5:49 by pinfall with a Bonzai Drop.

MATCH RATING: 62 C

FOLLOWING THE MATCH...

Jim Cornette grabs a microphone and climbs in the ring, raising Yokozuna's arm high following his squash victory. "If you ignoramuses would shut your mouths for one second, you might have a chance to learn something! Yokozuna has left a path of destruction since he came to the World Wrestling Federation and nobody with even half a brain would dare cross his path. Adam Bomb, you made that mistake last week, and after learning what true total destruction looks like, that's a mistake you'll never make again!"

SEGMENT RATING: 77 B

'DOUBLE J' GIVES MABEL A NEW ENTRANCE THEME

With Mabel headed down to the ring, we see a live camera shot 'Double J' Jeff Jarrett in the sound booth with the sound tech. "Cut this garbage off, son. Not only is 'Double J' the greatest wrestler in the World Wrestling Federation, but he's also the greatest sound man in the business. Hit it!" Mabel's music is cut and a slow, hokey country waltz hits as Mabel and Oscar make their way down to the ring. Mabel's normally jovial look has turned to rage as he steps over the top rope which spells bad news for his opponent, the Brooklyn Brawler.

SEGMENT RATING: 86 B+

MABEL VS. THE BROOKLYN BRAWLER

In a poor match, Mabel defeated Brooklyn Brawler in 5:43 by pinfall.

MATCH RATING: 53 C-

MONDAY NIGHT RAW RECAP

Jim Ross and Vince McMahon recap this week's Monday Night RAW, highlighting The New Headshrinkers debut, the 1-2-3 Kid's upset victory over Diesel and Razor Ramon leading Shawn Michaels' right into the cold grip of an Undertaker chokeslam after the man from the dark side's win over Nikolai Volkoff.

SEGMENT RATING: 96 A+

TATANKA VS. QUEBECER PIERRE

In a decent match, Tatanka defeated Pierre in 7:55 by pinfall with an End of the Trail.

MATCH RATING: 71 B-

WWF SUPERSTARS RATING: 79 B

ZigZagMan · January 21, 2019

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UltimateJerichoFan · January 22, 2019

Bulldog

Hart

Kwang (My boy)

Push Kwang or face consequences.....

ZigZagMan · January 22, 2019

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As RAW opens up we see Diesel approaching a backstage entrance to the arena which is blocked by two hefty security guards. He’s wearing a scowl on his face as the larger of the two men steps in the way of the door and holds a hand up to Diesel’s chest. Diesel is wearing a leather jacket over a black t-shirt and jeans.

“Sir, I need to see your pass before you can go in.”

In an instant, Diesel delivers a hip to the midsection of the man before banging the heads of the two security guards together as the two men collapse to the ground.

“There’s my pass.”

Diesel lets himself in the building.

<div style="text-align:center;">SEGMENT RATING: 95 A+

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“’Big Daddy Cool’ Diesel is here in East Lansing, Michigan and he looks like he means business! Welcome everyone, to Monday Night RAW! I’m Vince McMahon here with Jerry “The King” Lawler! Tonight we’ll see ‘The Million Dollar Champion’ Lex Luger take on an ally or Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart, the British Bulldog!”

“That’s right McMahon. Bret’s too much of a coward to show his face so he had to send the Bulldog to do his dirty work!” chimes in Lawler.

“We’ll also see Bob ‘Spark Plug’ Holly in action against the mysterious martial arts expert Kwang!”

Vince is interrupted by the theme music of Owen Hart.

“But first it looks like we’re going to hear from the self-proclaimed ‘King of Harts’ Owen Hart.”

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Owen Hart makes his way down to the ring in his wrestling gear. He’s got a sour look on his face as usual as he jerks his arm away from an overzealous fan. He climbs onto the ring apron and leaps over the top rope before grabbing a microphone.

<div style="text-align:center;">“Day in and day out, I prove that I am one of the greatest wrestlers in the World Wrestling Federation and week after week I have to sit back and watch while other get the recognition that I deserve! I am the King of the Ring, but that’s not enough! You’re looking at a man who has soundly beaten the World Wrestling Federation champion, my brother Bret Hart, and you’re looking at a man who would have the WWF World Heavyweight Title belt around his waist if not for the despicable acts of a man who I once called family, the British Bulldog. Bulldog, I’m ashamed to call you family and I’m ashamed that you married into the Hart Family. I treated you like a brother and you stole what should’ve been the greatest achievement of my life right out of my hands! I should have my place in the spotlight at the top of the World Wrestling Federation but you couldn’t let that happen, could you? Because you’re too damn selfish just like Bret! Now every day I hear how great the ‘Hitman’ is despite proving without a doubt that I’m better! I’m the best technical wrestler in the WWF. And I’ll prove it again tonight because I’m issuing an open challenge to anybody in that locker room to come down and face me! And I'll prove once again who the real 'Excellence of Execution' and I'll do it in a submission match!</div>

Owen waits for someone to answer the challenge. All of the sudden a fight song hits!

“Well look who it is! One of the greatest technical wrestlers in World Wrestling Federation history! It’s Bob Backlund!” shouts Vince.

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Backlund makes his way down the aisle in his basic wrestling gear with a letterman jacket and a towel wrapped around his neck. He climbs in the ring and grabs the microphone from Owen and gets right in his face.

<div style="text-align:center;">“Sonny, I’m getting really tired about hearing people like you complain about a lack of respect… </div>

“Bob...” Owen holds his hands up and attempts to cut him off.

<div style="text-align:center;">“That’s Mr. Backlund to you! It’s about time somebody teaches you a lesson on what respect is all about!”

SEGMENT RATING: 93 A

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Backlund whips off his jacket as the referee steps between the two men. He calls for the bell and Backlund and Owen begin circling each other.

In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Bob Backlund defeated Owen Hart in 10:50 by submission with a Cross Face Chicken Wing.

Comments: Owen Hart and Bob Backlund went back to back in a match featuring a lot of technical wrestling. Owen really used his athleticism to get this match over but his cockiness would cost him. Instead of capitalizing on an opportunity to lock Backlund in the Sharpshooter, Owen would lean over the top rope to scold some 'Hitman' fans at ringside allowing the veteran Backlund a window to lock in the Crossface Chicken Wing to humble his much younger foe!

<div style="text-align:center;">MATCH RATING: 81 B

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We return from commercial where we see Diesel roaming the hallways, his shouts echoing through the halls.

<div style="text-align:center;">“1-2-3 Kid! You think you can pull a fast one on ‘Big Daddy Cool’ and not face the consequences? It’s time to face the music, you little punk!”</div>

Diesel tosses chairs, tables, and equipment trunks around leaving a path of destruction in his wake. Typhoon turns a corner and stands in Diesel’s way.

“Why don’t you pick on someone your own size?” he says.

“I’d love to!”

Diesel nails Typhoon with a right and goes to work on the big man before eventually tossing him headfirst into a storage locker!

<div style="text-align:center;">SEGMENT RATING: 96 A+

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As we return to ringside Kwang stands in the ring awaiting his opponent.

“I would hate to be the next person to get in Diesel’s way, McMahon,” says Lawler.

“You can say that again!” replies Vince.

Bob ‘Spark Plug’ Holly’s theme music hits and he makes his way down the aisle in a red and checkered-flag singlet and tights with a racing jacket on. He smiles and slaps the hands of the cheering fans at ringside before climbing into the ring. He jumps up to the second turnbuckle and holds his arms in the air taking in the cheers from the crowd before hopping down and removing his jacket.

The bell rings but before the two men lock up Kwang does a few martial arts movements then spits red mist into the sky. They circle each other before locking up as this one gets underway.

In a bout that had sub-par wrestling and little heat, Kwang drew with Bob Holly in 6:19 when the match descended into chaos after Diesel got involved.

Comments: Bob Holly and Kwang went back and forth in this one but not for long as Diesel would make his way down to the ring and attack both men, giving each man a Jackknife Powerbomb of their own in what turned out to be a no-contest draw!

<div style="text-align:center;">MATCH RATING: 53 C-

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Diesel grabs a microphone, standing in the middle of the ring with Kwang and Bob Holly recovering from the attack.

<div style="text-align:center;">“1-2-3 Kid! Last week, you took advantage and scored a cheap victory over ‘Big Daddy Cool.’ I’d congratulate you but you and I both know you don’t deserve it. If it wasn’t for a little distraction from Razor Ramon, you and I both know you were seconds away from being Jackknifed into oblivion. Payback is coming, Kid, and we can do it the easy way or the hard way. If you want to do things the easy way, you can step back into the ring with me. One-on-one, tag team match, it doesn’t matter. Now, if you want to do things the hard way, I’ll find you and I’ll make you regret the day you stepped into the path of the big Diesel engine!”</div>

Diesel steps over the top rope and exits the arena to boos as we cut to commercial.

<div style="text-align:center;">SEGMENT RATING: 98 A+

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“Money, money, money, money, money!” We return from the break as the lights dim and dollar signs light the aisle and the Million Dollar Corporation's theme music rings through the arena. Lex Luger makes his way down the aisle led by a laughing ‘The Million Dollar Man’ Ted DiBiase. Luger has the Million Dollar Belt around his waste and finds a camera.

“Hitman! I hope you’re watching closely because you’re next!”

DiBiase and Luger climb into the ring where Luger bounces from rope to rope before pausing in the middle and flexing, taking in all loud boos from the crowd.

The house lights come back on and ‘Rule, Britannia’ hits! The British Bulldog steps out from the curtain wearing the British flag across his shoulders. He climbs into the ring and spreads his arms wide showing his patriotic colors as the flag is projected on the ring mat as well.

The Bulldog removes his entrance attire and approaches the middle of the ring as the bell rings. Luger holds a hand up in the air and the two men lock into a test of strength which is broken up when Luger delivers a cheap kick to the midsection.

In a good match, The British Bulldog defeated Lex Luger in 18:01 by pinfall with a Running Powerslam following botched interference by Irwin R. Schyster. During the match we had Irwin R. Schyster accidentally hit Luger.

Comments: Luger and Bulldog put on quite a show in what was a pay-per-view quality matchup between the two competitors. Both men would take turns overpowering the other in this one, but with the referee knocked cold in an accidental collision with the Bulldog, Irwin R. Schyster would run down to ringside and attempt to swing things Lex's way, hopping on the ring apron.

I.R.S. would accidentally clock Luger in the head with the briefcase and the Bulldog would put the finishing touches on the match, nailing a running powerslam on 'The Million Dollar Champion!' The referee would come to just in time to count the 1..2..3!

"Fans that's all we have time for this week! Tune in Saturday on WWF Superstars!" shouts Vince as RAW goes off the air.

<div style="text-align:center;">MATCH RATING: 75 B-

MONDAY NIGHT RAW RATING: 83 B+</div>

ZigZagMan · January 23, 2019

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WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER

------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>

Here are some interesting tidbit's from Dave Meltzer in his 'Wrestling Observer Newsletter'...

<ul><li>In somewhat of a shocking development, Lex Luger has agreed to terms on a contract extension with the World Wrestling Federation. World Championship Wrestling has been hot after any WWF star with name recognition that hits the market, but Luger must feel pretty strongly about his status after a very effective heel turn at SummerSlam. </li><li>The WWF set a ratings record for Monday Night RAW on Monday after earning a 3.68 rating last week. This spells good news for 'Big Daddy Cool' Diesel as he was featured on the show and it appears the fans are really buying into the big man. Last week's taping of WWF Superstars also saw a ratings boost earning a 0.35 rating. </li><li>Rick 'The Model' Martel is struggling to physically keep up with a WWF roster that continues to get younger as his body has been really feeling the affects of a grueling schedule. Look for him to be used less in the coming months. </li><li>Paul Bearer drew the ire of WWF management last week after showing up late to a pre-show media appearance. It's highly unlikely this will develop into anything notable as Bearer's place in the company is extremely secure as The Undertaker's manager. </li><li>Former WWF Intercontinental and Tag Team Champion Jacques Rougeau has inked a pay-per-appearance deal with Ontario-based Border City Wrestling. The veteran left the WWF as he was no longer interested in full-time work and travel. </li></ul>

ZigZagMan · January 23, 2019

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DUKE 'THE DUMPSTER DROESE VS. CRUSH

In a bout that had sub-par wrestling and little heat, Crush defeated Duke Droese in 8:47 by pinfall after hitting Droese in the head with Jim Cornette's tennis racket.

MATCH RATING: 56 C-

FOLLOWING THE MATCH...

The assault on Duke 'The Dumpster' Droese continues as Crush drags him to the corner, allowing Yokozuna to enter the ring and squash him with a Bonzai Drop! Jim Cornette finds a camera. "There is only one true source of destruction in the World Wrestling Federation and it's that man right there! Yokozuna!"

SEGMENT RATING: 88 B+

'DOUBLE J' JEFF JARRETT STOPS INTO 'THE HEARTBREAK HOTEL'

Shawn Michaels invites this week's guest 'Double J' to the stage to ask him about his recent feud with the Men on a Mission. Jarrett carries an unlikely accessory with him, Men on a Mission's boombox. "With all do respect, Michaels, I know you like the Sweet Chin Music. But to me there's nothing sweeter than the heart and soul in country music and 'Double J' is flying up the charts." Jarrett tosses the boombox off the side of the stage where it smashes on the concrete below! "Mabel, that was the best sound that boombox has ever made. Consider it another smash hit by the greatest wrestler in the WWF, 'Double J' Jeff Jarrett. That's J-A-Double F J-A-Double R-E-Double T."

SEGMENT RATING: 93 A

DOINK VS. 'GIGOLO' JIMMY DEL RAY

In a terrible match, Doink The Clown defeated Jimmy Del Ray in 4:44 by pinfall with a Whoopie Cushion following interference from Dink.

MATCH RATING: 55 C-

TODD PETTENGILL INTERVIEWS 'THE MILLION DOLLAR MAN'

Todd Pettengill stands backstage with Ted DiBiase, King Kong Bundy, and Nikolai Volkoff. DiBiase addresses Volkoff's failed attempt to defeat The Undertaker two weeks ago on Monday Night RAW. "Nikolai, you didn't just let me down. You didn't just let the 'Million Dollar Corporation' down. You let your family down. One more slip like that, and you'll be right back on the streets. Undertaker! You may have escaped your fate for a few weeks but it's only a matter of time before King Kong Bundy gets you in his grasp and puts an end to you once and for all. As for the rest of the World Wrestling Federation superstars, each and every one of you need to keep looking over your shoulders you never know who I'll buy next. Everybody's got a price!

Hahahahaha!"

SEGMENT RATING: 83 B+

BARRY HOROWITZ VS. JIM 'THE ANVIL' NEIDHART

In a poor match, Jim Neidhart defeated Barry Horowitz in 6:17 by pinfall with an Anvil Flatenner.

MATCH RATING: 65 C

MONDAY NIGHT RAW RECAP

Jim Ross and Vince McMahon recap this week's Monday Night RAW, where viewers saw 'Big Daddy Cool' wreak havoc by destroying Typhoon, Bob 'Spark Plug' Holly, and Kwang to send a message to the 1-2-3 Kid. We also saw Bob Backlund teach Owen Hart a lesson in humility with a submission match upset and the British Bulldog earn a victory over 'The Million Dollar Champion' Lex Luger.

SEGMENT RATING: 95 A+

TYPHOON VS. 'BIG DADDY COOL' DIESEL

In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Diesel defeated Typhoon in 9:46 by pinfall with a Jacknife Power Bomb.

MATCH RATING: 77 B

WWF SUPERSTARS RATING: 82 B

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