IMPACT! Wrestling: Hard to Kill (RW 2020+)

[Texasrangers13]

 

Founded in June of 2002 as Total Nonstop Action, the modern-day Impact! Wrestling has undergone a number of changes over the past 17+ years and over that time the climate of the industry has changed dramatical, and numerous time has been seen as on its last legs. As recently as three years ago Impact! was seen as floundering and was left for dead. In early 2017, Anthem Sports & Entertainment, a Canadian-based sports media company took majority ownership of the company and the Anthem owl briefly reigned over the company. With it came a year of turbulence as the company chose to reconnect with original founder Jeff Jarrett and with it came more challenges as Jeff and his wife Karen suggested a merger with their floundering Global Force Wrestling company but that partnership lasted fewer than six months before Impact! Wrestling was official "reborn" again. Under the leadership of Scott D'Amore and Don Callis, Impact! Wrestling has slowly and steadily rebuilt its reputation and help bring it back to relevance in the wrestling scene.

 

2019 was another year of growth and change for the industry as All Elite Wrestling was born and the WWE spun their developmental group NXT out as a defacto third brand. At the same time, New Japan Pro Wrestling began to attempt aggressive maneuvers into the American market. But, Anthem Sports and Entertainment wasn't going to sit idly and allow their brand to just be brushed aside again, instead they aggressively moved into the digital space launching Impact! Plus and beginning to air their shows for free on Twitch. As the year reached the end of the third quarter, Anthem took their first major step into the American market when they purchased the majority share of AXS TV! and gave Impact a true home on televisions across America once again. Now as the calendar turns to 2020, Impact Wrestling is poised to make history as Tessa Blanchard and Sami Callihan's months long feud over the Impact! World Championship comes to a head at Hard To Kill. Will Tessa Blanchard become the first ever female to hold the World Championship or will Sami Callihan reign supreme once again...

 

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Impact! Wrestling is a unique company with a deep connection to the 2000's rebirth of professional wrestling. The originally named TNA brought names such as AJ Styles, Abyss and Robert Roode to prominence. They relaunched the careers of names such as Raven and Ron Killings. And they gave the stars of WCW such as Jeff Jarrett a place to call home in the immediate aftermath of the Vince McMahon. In the mid-2000's they became the home of names such as Kurt Angle, Booker T and Christian and things began to look good for the second strongest company in the world. But perhaps it was greed, or perhaps arrogance, that led them to directly challenge the WWE in 2010 when they brought in Hulk Hogan, Eric Bischoff and their merry bunch of friends for what was intended to be a head to head challenge to the McMahon's... Instead it was a colossal disaster and all the progress the company had made, and trust they had earned evaporated. It has taken nearly a decade to course correct, but now, Impact! Wrestling is comfortable in its own skin and is ready to continue to be a company that pushes the boundaries and continues to provide a home to the ultra-creative and ultra-competitive superstars. While they may not be in the same sphere as the WWE, AEW or even NXT, Impact! is striving to be the alternative source for truly fun and unique storytelling, backed by great wrestling...

 

So follow along, this is Impact! Wrestling, and we are Hard to Kill.

 

 

 

 

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OOC: Hey, hey, we are here, my new diary for TEW 2020. For those of you who followed our odyssey with Ring of Honor (cheap plug, read the conclusion here, CLICK HERE in TEW 2016 you'll know that I tend to present things in chunks and like focusing on the events while giving just the rough and dirty of how we got there. That story-telling style will continue here. In fact Impact! fits this very well and the new game features will allow me to actually tape multiple events at once. I want to create stories and characters that people care about, but also make it simple enough for anyone to just jump in and follow along. I've spent the first 17 days of the "demo" period updating a thorough DB (thanks to TheWho87 for a solid base) and testing out numerous aspects to make sure my game world was going to operate the way I wanted it to. We are at the point that I am comfortable launching this. I've seen some diaries launch and say they are waiting for the full release of the game, but this is ready to roll now and will be posting the first event tomorrow.

 

Being that Hard to Kill was a major turning point in Impact!'s actual path, I've decided that would be my starting point as well and it helps that it was in January, when the demo lets us start. Thanks to Adam for giving us three months to play. We won't get nearly that far before the full launch of the game, but it is nice to be able to test that far. I am not going to follow their results directly, and I'm taking into account some events that happened in the real world to make this a very unique challenge and hopefully fun diary.

 

Up next is the full roster and the preview for the first event, Hard to Kill.

[Texasrangers13]

<p></p><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="FXNovjE.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/FXNovjE.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><p> </p><p> </p><p>

<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Full Roster (Alphabetically)</span></strong></span></p><p> </p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">"One True Ace" Ace Austin</span> <span style="color:#FFD700;">(Current X-Division Champion)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Acey Romero</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(One half of XXXL)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Adam Thornstowe</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(One half of RENO Scum)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Alisha Edwards</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Bhupinder Singh</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(Member of the Desi Hit Squad)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">"The Ultimately Finesser" Chris Bey</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">"Git'R" Cody Deaner</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(One half of the Deaners)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Cousin Jake Deaner</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(One half of the Deaners)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Daga</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Dave Crist</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(Member of OVE)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Dez </span><span style="color:#FF8C00;">(Member of The Rascalz)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Eddie Edwards</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">"All Ego" Ethan Page</span> (<span style="color:#FFD700;">Tag Champion</span> and <span style="color:#FF8C00;">one half of The North</span>)</p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Fallah Bahh</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Gama Singh</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(The leader of The Desi Hit Squad)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Glenn Gilbertti</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">"The Golden Draw" Jake Crist </span><span style="color:#FF8C00;">(Member of OVE)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Jessicka Havok</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Joey Ryan</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Johnny Swinger</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Jordynne Grace</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">"The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander</span> (<span style="color:#FFD700;">Tag Champion</span> and <span style="color:#FF8C00;">one half of The North</span>)</p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Katie Forbes</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(Part-Time wrestler, and valet of Rob Van Dam)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">"The World's Deadliest Man" Ken Shamrock</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Larry D</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(one half of XXXL)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Luster the Legend</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(one half of RENO Scum)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">"The Locker Room Leader" Madison Rayne</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Madman Fulton</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(Member of OVE)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Mahabali Shera</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(Member of the Desi Hit Squad)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Michael Elgin</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Moose</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Petey Williams</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Raj Singh</span><span style="color:#FF8C00;"> (Member of the Desi Hit Squad)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">"The War Machine" Rhino </span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Rich Swann</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">"The Whole F'n Show" Rob Van Dam</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Rohit Raju</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(Member of the Desi Hit Squad)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Rosemary</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Sabu</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Sami Callihan</span> <span style="color:#FFD700;">(The Impact World Champion </span>and <span style="color:#FF8C00;">leader of OVE</span>)</p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">"The Undead" Su Yung</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Taya Valkyrie</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(The Impact Knockouts Champion)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#FF0000;">Tenille Dashwood</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">TJ Perkins</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Tommy Dreamer</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Trey</span> <span style="color:#FF8C00;">(member of The Rascalz)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">Wentz </span><span style="color:#FF8C00;">(member of The Rascalz)</span></p><p>

<span style="color:#0000FF;">"Chocolate Thunder" Willie Mack</span></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Additional Staff</strong></p><p>

<strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Referees:</span></strong></p><p>

Brandon Tolle</p><p>

Harry Demerjian</p><p>

Mike Posey</p><p>

"Kid Ref" Riley</p><p> </p><p>

<strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Road Agents:</span></strong></p><p>

Chris Sabin</p><p>

D'Lo Brown</p><p>

Don Callis</p><p>

Gail Kim</p><p>

Jimmy Jacobs</p><p>

Konnan</p><p>

Paul London</p><p>

R.D. Evans</p><p> </p><p>

<strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Announcers:</span></strong></p><p>

Josh Matthews (Play-By-Play)</p><p>

Don Callis (Television Colour)</p><p>

Madison Rayne (Colour for Xplosion and Special Events)</p><p>

D'Lo Brown (Colour for Xplosion and Special Events)</p><p>

Scott D'Amore (Colour for Xplosion and Special Events)</p><p> </p><p>

<strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Backstage Personalities:</span></strong></p><p>

Gabby Loren</p><p>

Jimmy Jacobs</p><p>

Melissa Santos (Also host of Twitch Specials)</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

<strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Current Champions:</span></strong></p><p>

<em><strong>Impact! World Champion</strong></em></p><p>

<strong>Sami Callihan</strong></p><p>

<img alt="TraOka3.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/TraOka3.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p>

<img alt="OgBGKYp.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/OgBGKYp.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p>

<strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Impact! X Division Champion</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">

Ace Austin</span></strong></p><p>

<img alt="nvAKqcF.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/nvAKqcF.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p>

<img alt="M2SY5WB.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/M2SY5WB.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p>

<strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Impact! Tag Champions</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">

The North</span></strong></p><p>

<img alt="rmUyvrl.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/rmUyvrl.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p>

<img alt="W5KEKgz.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/W5KEKgz.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="VuVJc1U.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/VuVJc1U.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p>

<strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Impact! Knockouts Champion</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">

Taya Valkyrie</span></strong></p><p>

<img alt="1IZHtOs.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/1IZHtOs.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p>

<img alt="YtopcJv.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/YtopcJv.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p></div><p></p><p></p>

[Texasrangers13]

<p>Impact! Wrestling 2020 Events Schedule</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="hHwNsQv.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hHwNsQv.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><p>

</p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</p><p> </p><p>

OOC: To bring a little context to this, there will be FOUR "Major" Events, this are the special events of the year and the ones we really build to, these are also the only four full Pay-Per-View events. There will also be eight "special" events monthly and these events will occasionally be promoted in partnership with smaller promotions. These events will still see occasional title changes and events, but they will be Impact! Plus exclusives.</p><p> </p><p>

I may add some to the schedule as we go. Additionally, we will have <strong>Impact! Wrestling on AXS TV</strong>! weekly, we will be taping in blocks though (just like they do in reality) and <strong>Xplosion</strong> on Twitch and Impact! Plus.</p>

[Texasrangers13]

<p>Hard to Kill 2020 Preview</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="znGNt1Z.jpg?1" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/znGNt1Z.jpg?1" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><p> </p><p> <img alt="ibOK6fE.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/ibOK6fE.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="49163" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Full Card Preview:<p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>The Main Event, Impact World Championship</p><p> <strong>Sami Callihan {C} vs. Tessa Blanchard</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> Nearly a year-long feud that has seen Blanchard rise to prominence and become a legitimate threat. She looked like she was about to capture the title in the fall but Callihan snatched the title from his grasp and became the champion on the debut show of Impact! Wrestling on AXS TV. This bout is guaranteed to be a barn burner and Blanchard is a true threat to the title. If she wins she will be the first female World Champion!</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>Impact X-Division Championship</p><p> <strong>Ace Austin {C} vs. Trey</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> This feud is personal as Ace Austin proudly wears his Austin 3:16 shirt, which says on the back "I just banged your mom" to poke and prod at the challenge Trey. Trey's mother is frequently on the first row cheering her son on, but Ace Austin has made it personal and seems to have a thing for Trey's mom. This one is bound to be a brutal bout.</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>Impact Tag Championship, Handicap Match</p><p> <strong>The North {C} vs. Willie Mack</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> The North are the reigning and defending Tag Champions having held the titles for the majority of 2019, and now as 2020 starts up they faced a strong challenge from Willie Mack and Rich Swann, but Rich Swann came down injured in late December. Impact officials offered Mack the chance to pick a new partner, but The North insisted that Willie Mack must challenge here or lose his place in line. For his part, Willie Mack has never backed down from a fight and accepted the handicapped match rather than seek a replacement partner.</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>Impact Knockouts Title</p><p> <strong>Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> Wera Loca Taya Valkyrie has been a solid Knockouts champion but here she faces not one but two of the toughest women the Knockouts division has seen. "Little Mama Pump" Jordynne Grace stood out throughout 2019, but towards the end of the year ODB made a surprise return to Impact and will challenge here in a triple threat!</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>Gore vs. Spear</p><p> <strong>Rhino vs. Moose</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> Rhino is the well-known master of the Gore, but Moose has set out to "rid Impact! Wrestling of washed up wrestlers like Ken Shamrock and Rhino". The former NFL star also uses a spear, which he calls "No Jackhammer Needed", as his finish and he promises that he will defeat Rhino here and continue his tour of domination.</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>Grudge Match</p><p> <strong>Ken Shamrock vs. Madman Fulton</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> For the last year OVE has carefully controlled the Madman's movements, but in the fall of 2019 Shamrock returned to Impact and that seemed to trigger something in the madman. Now at Hard to Kill, Madman Fulton has been freed and has his eyes set on the World's Most Dangerous Man, for his part, Shamrock has never backed down from a fight and a big win here could establish him as a true threat to Sami Callihan and the Impact World Title.</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>Singles Bout</p><p> <strong>Daga vs. Rob Van Dam</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> Impact's rising X-Division star Daga challenges the recently "distracted and disconnected" Whole F'n Show, Rob Van Dam. RVD returned to Impact with his girlfriend Katie Forbes and has sure seemed way more interested in showing her assets off to the crowd than truly focusing on the in-ring action...</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><p>Call Your Shot Trophy</p><p> <strong>Eddie Edwards vs. Michael Elgin</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> Eddie Edwards won the Call Your Shot trophy fair and square but Michael Elgin has taken exception to the lack of attention he's received and went as far as to steal the physical trophy from Edwards. Edwards, still as unhinged as usual, was thoroughly upset by this theft and demanded that Impact! officials let him face Elgin one on one, and he evened offered up his trophy as the prize to the winner. So this one is not only personal, but the winner will be the official holder of the Call Your Shot trophy, meaning they can Call Their Shot and cash in for the a title shot at any time.</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Confirmed Card for Quick Picks</span></strong></p><p> Sami Callihan {C} vs. Tessa Blanchard</p><p> Ace Austin {C} vs. Trey</p><p> The North {C} vs. Willie Mack</p><p> Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB</p><p> Rhino vs. Moose</p><p> Ken Shamrock vs. Madman Fulton</p><p> Daga vs. Rob Van Dam</p><p> Eddie Edwards vs. Michael Elgin</p>

[20LEgend]

<p>Sami Callihan {C} vs.<strong> Tessa Blanchard</strong></p><p>

Not sure with this one, so went with what happened in reality. Could see you sticking with Sami though</p><p>

<strong>Ace Austin {C}</strong> vs. Trey</p><p>

Fan of The Rascals, but think Austin can keep the title for a little longer.</p><p>

<strong>The North {C}</strong> vs. Willie Mack</p><p>

Unless Willie can find a replacement, he's got no chance</p><p>

Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. <strong>Jordynne Grace</strong> vs. ODB</p><p>

ODB taking the fall I reckon</p><p>

Rhino vs. <strong>Moose</strong></p><p>

I expect the younger guy to go over</p><p>

<strong>Ken Shamrock </strong>vs. Madman Fulton</p><p>

The opposite of above, because I think Shamrock can build something of a special attraction</p><p>

<strong>Daga</strong> vs. Rob Van Dam</p><p>

I'm a fan of Daga and don't think RVD's in-ring work is up to much these days</p><p>

Eddie Edwards vs. <strong>Michael Elgin</strong></p><p>

Think he can be set up as a top heel to feud with Tessa</p><p> </p><p>

Looking forward to seeing how Impact develops as you book them, interested to see who you bring in.</p>

[Munit]

<p>Man I give you all the luck in the world with this. I always have loved TNA since I first saw them in 04... all the way to the time I saw Jeff Hardy Beat Austin Aries for the TNA World Title live in Phoenix. Even to this day i'll tune into impact because I just love wrestling and really wan't to support whatever is left of it. They have a pretty decent roster with what has been taken away months/years prior. Would love to see you do some big things with them <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/smile.png.142cfa0a1cd2925c0463c1d00f499df2.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p>

Sami Callihan {C} vs<strong>. Tessa Blanchard</strong></p><p>

<strong>Ace Austin</strong> {C} vs. Trey</p><p>

<strong>The North</strong> {C} vs. Willie Mack</p><p>

Taya Valkyrie {C} vs.<strong> Jordynne Grace</strong> vs. ODB</p><p>

Rhino vs. <strong>Moose</strong></p><p>

<strong>Ken Shamrock</strong> vs. Madman Fulton</p><p>

Daga vs<strong>. Rob Van Dam</strong></p><p>

Eddie Edwards vs. <strong>Michael Elgin</strong></p>

[olivertaylor276]

<p><p>Sami Callihan {C} vs. <strong>Tessa Blanchard</strong></p><p> </p><p></p><p>

<strong>Ace Austin {C}</strong> vs. Trey</p><p> </p><p></p><p>

<strong>The North {C}</strong> vs. Willie Mack</p><p> </p><p></p><p>

<strong>Taya Valkyrie {C}</strong> vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB</p><p></p><p>

<em>Taya pins ODB here, allowing Grace to get her true moment in a future singles match</em></p><p> </p><p></p><p>

Rhino vs. <strong>Moose</strong></p><p> </p><p></p><p>

Ken Shamrock vs. <strong>Madman Fulton</strong></p><p></p><p>

<em>This could go a long way toward establishing Fulton, and Shamrock can be protected by taking the loss via stoppage rather than pinfall or submission</em></p><p> </p><p></p><p>

Daga vs. <strong>Rob Van Dam</strong></p><p></p><p>

<em>I really like Daga, but I think giving RVD a PPV win with his new heel character could help</em></p><p> </p><p></p><p>

<strong>Eddie Edwards</strong> vs. Michael Elgin</p><p></p><p>

<em>After the Tessa controversy, I wondered if Impact would have Eddie turn heel and cash-in on Tessa at Hard to Kill... I'll double down on that theory here</em></p></p>

[Nightshadeex]

Needs more Rohit Raju and Cousin Jake.

[Texasrangers13]

Hard Open to Hard to Kill

 

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="

https://www.youtube.com/embed/VLQjM7QxifY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

(This is the actual hard open to Hard to Kill that Impact did. It was awesome and gives anyone wanting some backstory to the main event a good look... we will diverge moving forward, but what a start!)

 

 

In the process of writing this event up, ran really smoothly and the game threw a great twist. Trying something new for presentation which I want to test here with our Pre-Show bout. Love the initial predictions and support, some of thoughts you guys have had have impacted the booking direction, and that's perfect!

 

 

 

 

Thoughts?

[Powerbrock100]

Nice to see a diary from you so soon I loved the ROH one on 16

 

Sami Callihan {C} vs. Tessa Blanchard

Hopefully you right this wrong. Not a massive fan of Sami but it's the lesser of 2 evils

 

Ace Austin {C} vs. Trey

This is a nice filler feud but hopefully if anyone of the trio get the belt it's Dez

 

The North {C} vs. Willie Mack

 

Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB

Taya likely sneaks away with the belt so Grace can beat her one on one

 

I also like the new style but I like anything you do so maybe I'm a bad judge

 

Rhino vs. Moose

Gotta build those future stars and Moose's spear is better then Rhino's in 2020

 

Ken Shamrock vs. Madman Fulton

See very little in Fulton was a weird signing back then fits well with OvE but seems like generic enforcer for life

 

Daga vs. Rob Van Dam

RVD is a debuting a new character and Daga can't cut promo's. Maybe it's tainted to continue this feud

 

Eddie Edwards vs. Michael Elgin

Eddie is just the better wrestler and has been champ before would be nice to see if he can do it in this dynasty. Obvious bias in this prediction

 

I like the new style of presenting matches but maybe I'm bias because I like almost everything you do. Has a very in universe feel. Obviously I like seeing numbers/grades but that's because I'm nosey and love me some numbers/seeing people improve

[Texasrangers13]

Impact! Wrestling Presents: Hard to Kill

 

[Texasrangers13]

 

Impact! Wrestling held their first pay-per-view of 2020 and it was a solid, if not unspectacular show. The major build-up to what should have been Tessa Blanchard's crowning achievement came to a crashing halt when some dark messages and claims of racism surfaced among other wrestlers. For their part Impact! and their locker room has stood behind Tessa whole-heartedly but it certainly had to weigh into the decision to book the match this way.

 

The match itself disappointed slightly, but I think part of that was caused by an injury that Tessa legitimately suffered towards the end of the bout. Rumor has it that it is a Torn Quad and she was helped to the back by medical personnel as the show went off the air. I'm sure we will learn more on Impact!

 

As for the World Title picture, Sami Callihan seemingly had a contingency plan in Ace Austin, but now one has to one what Callihan offered Austin for his help. After all, Austin captured the X-Division title by defeating Jake Crist. Additionally, Michael Elgin and Eddie Edwards both have legitimate claims to the Call Your Shot trophy so the path doesn't get any easier for Mr. Callihan.

 

With that weighing on my mind, the surprise match of the night for me was definitely Moose vs. Rhino. Moose has been blossoming into a star before our eyes and his "No Jackhammer Needed" put away Rhino as promised. Moose's next victim appears to be Ken Shamrock, and Moose's "rid the world of washed up stars" tour seems to be rolling on.

 

Although we didn't see it live, I'm hearing that Dez really impressed officials in the pre-show match. He's the most talented of The Rascalz, but the trio as a whole is entertaining and will likely all continue to work together.

 

On the Knockouts side, Taya defended the title by stealing a win over Jordynne Grace by pinning ODB. Grace still has a legitimate claim to challenge Taya and I'm sure this one isn't over... Additionally, we saw the Undead Realm spin to life again as James Mitchell and his monster Havok indoctrinated "Susie" to life in the realm... but did they know that Rosemary was watching?!

 

Willie Mack fell short, and we can now confirm that Rich Swann will be out for the better part of the next three months as he recovers from a Sprained ACL. Maybe there is hope for Johnny Swinger after all!

 

Rob Van Dam sure doesn't care about the fans anymore. He says he's taking full advantage of the "Me Generation" and is more than happy to publicly show off his girlfriend. Curious what path he'll take next.

 

Last but not least, we can officially confirm that GutCheck is returning for a brief stay as an Impact Plus and Xplosion special. We've heard that the winner is guaranteed a full-time contract and that there are six men vying for the opportunity. I've heard that Impact! will be posting the names in a coming day, so stay tuned to learn about the six-men who will vey for the chance!

 

 

 

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Sami Callihan {C} vs. Tessa Blanchard

Not sure with this one, so went with what happened in reality. Could see you sticking with Sami though

Ace Austin {C} vs. Trey

Fan of The Rascals, but think Austin can keep the title for a little longer.

The North {C} vs. Willie Mack

Unless Willie can find a replacement, he's got no chance

Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB

ODB taking the fall I reckon

Rhino vs. Moose

I expect the younger guy to go over

Ken Shamrock vs. Madman Fulton

The opposite of above, because I think Shamrock can build something of a special attraction

Daga vs. Rob Van Dam

I'm a fan of Daga and don't think RVD's in-ring work is up to much these days

Eddie Edwards vs. Michael Elgin

Think he can be set up as a top heel to feud with Tessa

 

Looking forward to seeing how Impact develops as you book them, interested to see who you bring in.

 

Thank you, thank you. I was very close to going the Elgin/Tessa immediate feud route, but ultimately decided on the longer path. Having four "focal" PPVs and eight small ones makes the long-term story-telling aspect more of a challenge for me. Part of that will be developing and signing some new talents as the current roster has a good base but needs some fleshing out. I have a couple talents in mind, and did begin the "re"-debut of Tenille Dashwood here. You nailed the Moose/Shamrock predictions for the exact reasoning I am leaning. ... As for Daga/RVD. Daga is an interesting talent, but I need a firm direction or story before I'll put him over RVD.

 

Man I give you all the luck in the world with this. I always have loved TNA since I first saw them in 04... all the way to the time I saw Jeff Hardy Beat Austin Aries for the TNA World Title live in Phoenix. Even to this day i'll tune into impact because I just love wrestling and really wan't to support whatever is left of it. They have a pretty decent roster with what has been taken away months/years prior. Would love to see you do some big things with them

 

Sami Callihan {C} vs. Tessa Blanchard

Ace Austin {C} vs. Trey

The North {C} vs. Willie Mack

Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB

Rhino vs. Moose

Ken Shamrock vs. Madman Fulton

Daga vs. Rob Van Dam

Eddie Edwards vs. Michael Elgin

 

Appreciate it. I'm in the same boat, I've always enjoyed the company for whatever reason. I guess I've always been drawn to things that aren't the biggest mainstream company. Lived in Phoenix for a number of years and went to a number of shows in the area over the years. Actually went to a Championship Wrestling from AZ show last year and saw Chris Bey. Always kinda surprised that Phoenix has a rich population of wrestling fans, but limited exposure to premiere indys. I think TNA's visit for Bound For Glory was probably the last non-WWE/NXT show that drew more than 500ish. I think modern Impact would do well in the Comerica Center there (but I digress).

 

Sami Callihan {C} vs. Tessa Blanchard

 

Ace Austin {C} vs. Trey

 

The North {C} vs. Willie Mack

 

Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB

Taya pins ODB here, allowing Grace to get her true moment in a future singles match

 

Rhino vs. Moose

 

Ken Shamrock vs. Madman Fulton

This could go a long way toward establishing Fulton, and Shamrock can be protected by taking the loss via stoppage rather than pinfall or submission

 

Daga vs. Rob Van Dam

I really like Daga, but I think giving RVD a PPV win with his new heel character could help

 

Eddie Edwards vs. Michael Elgin

After the Tessa controversy, I wondered if Impact would have Eddie turn heel and cash-in on Tessa at Hard to Kill... I'll double down on that theory here

 

Your prediction on the cash-in made me think really hard about going that route. The whole Tessa controversy did bake into my decision here, and in the DB I set her to have some mild toxicity (3 months) and a group of girls who hate her. Ultimately I backed away from Eddie going heel/tweener here as it would leave me with no real babyface for the top of the card at the moment.

 

Needs more Rohit Raju and Cousin Jake.

 

I've been glad to see Raju and Jake starting to show more of their personalities and skills over the last few months. Need to get them there her but they will both be present throughout without a doubt.

 

Nice to see a diary from you so soon I loved the ROH one on 16

 

Sami Callihan {C} vs. Tessa Blanchard

Hopefully you right this wrong. Not a massive fan of Sami but it's the lesser of 2 evils

 

Ace Austin {C} vs. Trey

This is a nice filler feud but hopefully if anyone of the trio get the belt it's Dez

 

The North {C} vs. Willie Mack

 

Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB

Taya likely sneaks away with the belt so Grace can beat her one on one

 

I also like the new style but I like anything you do so maybe I'm a bad judge

 

Rhino vs. Moose

Gotta build those future stars and Moose's spear is better then Rhino's in 2020

 

Ken Shamrock vs. Madman Fulton

See very little in Fulton was a weird signing back then fits well with OvE but seems like generic enforcer for life

 

Daga vs. Rob Van Dam

RVD is a debuting a new character and Daga can't cut promo's. Maybe it's tainted to continue this feud

 

Eddie Edwards vs. Michael Elgin

Eddie is just the better wrestler and has been champ before would be nice to see if he can do it in this dynasty. Obvious bias in this prediction

 

I like the new style of presenting matches but maybe I'm bias because I like almost everything you do. Has a very in universe feel. Obviously I like seeing numbers/grades but that's because I'm nosey and love me some numbers/seeing people improve

 

Always great to have you! It honestly was really hard to pull away from what we had built in TEW 2016, but after 2+ years I realized it was time and thought this would be a fun modern challenge that hopefully will have some followers since they have a broader scope! I also wanted to get this going right away as I have some time now and can test out a bunch of stuff so that when things get rolling again I'll be a good position to carry it forward.

 

Appreciate the feedback on the new style. I'm working on the numbers/grades and how to incorporate them. In the past I built my grades off what the game graded them (using C's and B's as *** and **** matches, never did manage a B+ match haha)... Here with the new numbers only model I'm trying to comprehend things a bit better. In the interest of transparency, the company's popularity in the Mid-South was a 40 and this show did a 36 (clearly I'm still trying to get a hang of the new system).

 

The best match was actually Moose vs. Rhino, but was closely followed by the Edwards/Elgin double pin. Callihan had the best match rating 53, followed by Edwards (48) and RVD (45). Dez (43) in the pre-show was fourth best and you nailed it in the predictions, if any Rascal is to be the X-division champ it's Dez. I cannot disagree. You also nailed the Shamrock and Moose paths, and I can't disagree. I personally have enjoyed Moose since his time in ROH, he's gotten a ton better also which helps.

 

 

Not sure if we will run a prediction contest, but since you guys gave solid predictions let's keep track!

 

The draw in Elgin/Edwards cost everyone, but solid jobs across the board. And I counted these quickly, so if I'm wrong... my bad. But just know I read all the comments, and take the thoughts into consideration. They are appreciated.

 

Powerbrock100: 7/8

Olivertaylor276: 5/8

Munit: 5/8

20Legend: 4/8

 

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Post-Show Takeaways:

 

First show is up with the new format. For now I'm planning on using this format for all four "major" events, and a slightly modified version for the other events. I also plan on presenting the Impact episodes much in the same way I did in my ROH diary with them being information "dumps" more than graphical wizardry. That said, I may drop some images in here and there to spice up the story. Xplosion, the B-show, is exactly that, a B-show. It'll be treated like that for the most part.

 

As I mentioned in the comments, still getting a feel for the new booking engine and ratings and such. I'll always be transparent if people are curious, but for now will likely hold off posting every single score until I get a better feel for what is good and bad... seeing a 14 (sorry Tenille) on an angle was... shocking.

[Powerbrock100]

TENILLE GOT A 14? I assume it was based on her overness that could not of been based on Sex Appeal or Entertainment. A good start to what I'm sure will be a good and lengthy diary. Ace with Sami feels like a natural fit. I have turned the corner on Moose he lost me when he was with Aries & Kross but been loving him recently.

 

I personally loved the way you did taping results on the ROH diary so no complaints with not switching it up. Nice that tapings are finally in TEW.

 

Side note not a complaint just my 2 pence. It's weird not to see Lockdown (I get why) or Destination X (I always liked that since it was one of the few times in the year where TNA cared about the X-Division post 2010)

[Blodyxe]

Dodged a bullet by not giving the title to Tessa, a torn quad would not help her matters at all. Will be following this

[PacoAce]

Pretty nice... My main "meh" would be Moose going again after Ken Shamrock after beating him at BFG...

Can't wait to see what you have in store for Tessa after not giving her the belt.

[chopps4312]

Awesome first PPV. As a TNA and now Impact fan I hope you can do what they have failed and push Alisha Edwards. She is phenomenal up here in New England. They just need her to be the little devil she can be like Alexa Bliss. Looking forward to this dynasty.

[Texasrangers13]

 

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TENILLE GOT A 14? I assume it was based on her overness that could not of been based on Sex Appeal or Entertainment. A good start to what I'm sure will be a good and lengthy diary. Ace with Sami feels like a natural fit. I have turned the corner on Moose he lost me when he was with Aries & Kross but been loving him recently.

 

I personally loved the way you did taping results on the ROH diary so no complaints with not switching it up. Nice that tapings are finally in TEW.

 

Side note not a complaint just my 2 pence. It's weird not to see Lockdown (I get why) or Destination X (I always liked that since it was one of the few times in the year where TNA cared about the X-Division post 2010)

 

Not sure what I did with Tenille's promo, other than screw up, her promos on the tapings I just ran were MUCH better (like high 30's, which for me is good). Ace and Sami are a bit of odd bedfellows, and I think you'll see that, but they did fit here and will continue to work together in certain aspects.

 

Ya, I'm still planning on adding some additional special events, and Lockdown and Destination X are on the potential card. Also the World X Cup is on that list, always loved that... plus I have Petey Williams and Scott D'Amore... haha...

 

Thrilled tapings are in, just ran my first real batch in this game and it went perfectly! Love the new features too.

 

Dodged a bullet by not giving the title to Tessa, a torn quad would not help her matters at all. Will be following this

 

Oh man, I know, definitely dodged a bullet and now my storylines will build for a longer run, which I'm good with. Appreciate the follow, as always!

 

Pretty nice... My main "meh" would be Moose going again after Ken Shamrock after beating him at BFG...

Can't wait to see what you have in store for Tessa after not giving her the belt.

 

Ya... I screwed that up, totally forgot Moose/Shamrock happened at BFG. But I think the route I'm going will make sense, I hope.

 

Awesome first PPV. As a TNA and now Impact fan I hope you can do what they have failed and push Alisha Edwards. She is phenomenal up here in New England. They just need her to be the little devil she can be like Alexa Bliss. Looking forward to this dynasty.

 

Ya, I like Alisha as well. Trying to figure out the whole Knockouts division. I've always struggled booking the women, but this division has some natural stories to follow and I've already looked into adding a couple new names to it also.

 

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Wanted to get a quick Gutcheck preview up. Graphic didn't come out exactly as I envisioned, but it's for a B-Show... so... oh well. I taped the two Xplosion episodes the "Gutcheck" will run on, and they ran smoothly. I wanted to use Gutcheck to introduce some characters (all from the actual Gutcheck, Impact ran this year) that might get a spot here... that said, all I'll say is that I didn't go the same route they did.

 

Will post the Xplosion and Impact tapings (through end of January, so two of each) in the next day. Appreciate the early follows!

[Texasrangers13]

[NowThenMates]

Really enjoying this, great work!

[Texasrangers13]

<p>February First Half Television!</p><p> </p><p>

</p><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="K2he8X5.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/K2he8X5.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div><p></p><p></p>

[Texasrangers13]

Initial Preview for Sacrifice

 

End of Week 2, February 2020

 

Impact! Wrestling released the first preview of the card for Sacrifice. As a reminder, Sacrifice is an Impact Plus exclusive event and is co-promoted with OVW. With that in mind they've announced that two OVW Champions will be entered into the Feast or Fired match. Those two are both former TNA Wrestlers and will have an opportunity to earn a full-time contract if they make it to the final two. Additionally Impact! officials have clarified that the OVW competitors are only eligible for a contract if they finish in the top two. If they don't finish top two, nothing else happens. Additionally, no matter the result the first Impact competitor to be eliminated will be fired.

 

The two OVW superstars who will be participating are:

 

Jay Bradley and Jessie Godderz.

 

Jay Bradley is the current OVW Heavyweight champion and at 39-years old has over 21 years in the business. He had a brief run as Aiden O'Shea and appeared in a early iteration of Gutcheck. Always ready for a fight, O'Shea has promised to bring the Boomstick and claims he's a lock for the final two.

 

"Mr. PEC-Tacular" Jessie Godderz is looking to make a return to Impact where he was in a team with Robbie E years back. Now 34, Godderz is an established soap-opera star but now he steps back into the ring looking for even more exposure!

 

With that, here is the current card, we have one more set of tapings prior to the event, so stayed tuned!

 

[Blodyxe]

<p>I am not familiar with Ace Austin, but you're booking him so strong that I'm googling him in a minute <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/tongue.png.ceb643b2956793497cef30b0e944be28.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p>

Enjoying RVD's "skits" too <img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p> </p><p>

Not sure if there's a prediction contest, but looking forward to Sacrifice</p>

[Texasrangers13]

I am not familiar with Ace Austin, but you're booking him so strong that I'm googling him in a minute

 

Enjoying RVD's "skits" too

 

Not sure if there's a prediction contest, but looking forward to Sacrifice

 

Appreciate it, I think you'll be impressed with Austin. He's got those real heel qualities in a "I just want to punch this guy in the face way". Pretty gymnastic, and creative in ring. YouTube has a solid Top 20 moves video.

 

He's only 23 also, so some real upside. Eddie Edwards had a really enjoyable feud with him over the summer.

 

Impact's done a great job with him in reality building him into a top name, and I want to build some of the youth on the roster.

 

Speaking of Impact, RVD's skits in reality are great and I'm glad they are coming through... We haven't even be banned from Twitch yet like RVD and Katie were haha!

 

Predictions are always welcomed and I haven't formally announced a contest, but I am keeping track and will likely incorporate one.

[Texasrangers13]

Impact Live and Tapings for Late February 2020

 

[Texasrangers13]

Impact Plus Presents: Sacrifice, Preview

 

 

 

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Impact Plus special Sacrifice booked in coordination with Ohio Valley Wrestling is up next, I've hinted at this earlier but we will have four "main" Pay-Per-Views, one per quarter (Hard to Kill being the first) and eight "Impact Plus" specials. Sacrifice is one, and in two weeks game-time the next, Homecoming, will be presented. These Impact Plus shows will frequently feature talents from other promotions, or special appearances. They will occasionally feature a bunch of storyline advancement but may not always feature title defenses or huge matches. There are times where the local talents may win, so they aren't always slam dunks, but generally I'll be pushing my own talent. Much like Impact actually presents the shows currently.

 

 

Quick Picks for Sacrifice

Impact World Championship

Hardcore Rules

Sami Callihan {C} vs. Tommy Dreamer

 

Ultimate Sacrifice

If Shamrock Loses He Must Retire

Ken Shamrock vs. Moose

 

Impact Tag Titles

The North {C} vs. The Rascalz (Trey and Wentz)

 

Impact Knockout Title

Taya Valkyrie {C} vs. Madison Rayne

 

Tenille Returns to Impact

Tenille Dashwood vs. Jessie Belle (OVW)

 

Undead Realm Tornado Tag

Crazzy Steve and Rosemary vs. Jessicka Havok and Su Yung

 

Match Two of Best of Three

Edwards Leads 1-0

Eddie Edwards vs. Michael Elgin

 

Feast or Fired Elimination Match

Bhupinder Singh vs. Cody Deaner vs. Jay Bradley (OVW) vs. Jessie Godderz (OVW) vs. Rob Van Dam vs. Willie Mack

 

(Feast or Fired got a bit convoluted, basically just pick the overall winner above, he'll get the Impact World Title shot, below we will call it bonus and leave this here)

Will one of the OVW wrestlers earn a contract by finishing in the final two? (Yes or No?, If Yes, Who?)

Who will be the final elimination?

Who will be fired (First non-OVW elimination)?