A Change In The Landscape - RWMod Beginning In 1995

corporate_icon · May 31, 2020

The year is 1995. The OJ Simpson trial is captivating a nation. 168 people are murdered in the Oklahoma City bombing. Microsoft releases Windows 95. Sony PlayStation debuts, and in the world of Professional Wrestling, war is underway between WCW and the WWF. The Monday Night Wars have launched, and professional wrestling is in a strange sort of middle ground from having nearly collapsed, and a boom period on the horizon that will be unlike anything ever seen in the industry before. Hulkamania has gone from running wild to jogging calmly, but Austin 3:16 has yet to be written. In Philadelphia, an Extreme Revolution is building steam and slowly beginning to have a presence outside of the Philly/New York area. But in Las Vegas, a whole new component is about to be thrown into the mix. Virtually unknown ring announcer T.C. Martin has been running a fledgling promotion called the National Wrestling Conference. That was until T.C. decided to find his way to the poker tables one hot August night. How T.C. ended up playing high stakes poker with the like of billionaire media mogul Rupert Murdoch, the world may never know. Nevertheless, he did. And he did surprisingly well for a while. The table came down to T.C. and Rupert. T.C. had a hot hand and was just short on the wager so he put the NWC into the pot. Sadly, the hand wasn’t as hot as he thought, and Rupert Murdoch walked away with a quaint story about how he won a wrestling promotion in a poker game while T.C. staggered away in financial ruin.

While Rupert hadn’t had any plans on doing anything with his new wrestling promotion, he was aware that Ted Turner had been pretty successful using a wrestling promotion to drive traffic to a couple of his stations. Rupert was also aware that the newest networks in his own portfolio – FX And FX Canada- needed something to be a traffic driver as well. A centerpiece to build the networks around if you will. He’d had luck pulling a certain segment of the audience with programs like The Simpsons and Married With Children on Fox, he suspected that he’d be able to draw that same audience to FX with the wrestling.

Rupert’s plan utilized wrestling for TV content in at least two different countries out of the gate, so a name like “National” Wrestling Conference wouldn’t do. With organizations like the WORLD Wrestling Federation and WORLD Championship Wrestling, he couldn’t have a name that sounded minor league. So he rechristened the NWC as the International Championship Wrestling Association.

The ICWA would take to the airwaves in October and get immediate coverage in the United States and Canada. ICWA’s weekly television show would air on Tuesday nights as to avoid fighting Monday Night Football and two other wrestling promotions for ratings.

While Rupert was more than capable of getting the TV slots worked out, and the financing worked out, what he struggled with was finding the right people to put in place to run the operation. It was at this point Rupert decided to turn things over to his network executives Anne Sweeny and Mark Sonnenberg. While Sweeny wasn’t particularly interested in a wrestling product, Sonnenberg was intrigued by the notion.

Sonnenberg recalled a time many years prior when he had been in the northeast visiting his cousin. Mark bumped into Andre The Giant, Tim White and a few other WWF guys in a bar. One thing led to another and he ended up sparking a bit of a friendship with Tim White. They’d grab a drink whenever one of them was in the other’s part of the country. Sonnenberg immediately recommended reaching out to Tim for some guidance in launching a wrestling property. When Sonnenberg got the okay to reach out to his friend, he was a little surprised to find out that Tim’s contract was open for negotiations, and he was interested in branching out.

Sonnenberg flew Tim White out to LA and had him meet with Anne Sweeny. Tim pitched himself to book and run the day to day operations of the ICWA. Between White’s industry experience and Sonnenberg’s endorsement, Sweeny saw hiring White as a win-win. If he fails, Sweeny could make the case she never thought wrestling was right for FX anyway and clearly she was right. If White is successful, it’d be because of Anne’s vision in hiring him to make Mr. Murdoch’s investment a successful one. Either way, it’d be beneficial to Anne, and as such she put her seal of approval on the deal and it was done. On screen, Tim White would serve as a referee of the ICWA much the same as he’d done for the WWF, and off screen he’d serve as the president and booker of the ICWA.

With only a couple of weeks until the ICWA launches on FX, Tim White was in a scramble to assemble a support staff and obtain a couple of performers he could rely on. There was already a small handful of agreements in place with some wrestlers. A few nobody had heard of, and a few they had. However, it was hardly enough to launch a major broadcast property. Tim’s first hire would be a play by play man. He knew from his years at the WWF that nothing made or broke a TV show like a good -or in turn a bad – commentator. Sonnenberg had a recommendation for that position. A guy he’d met in St. Louis at a work convention named Burt Busch. He was primarily a college football analyst, and an AM Sports Radio personality, but he loved pro wrestling. He’d tried previously to get a job with Sam Muchnick, but Muschnick was on the cusp of retirement and not looking to make any changes at the time. White was skeptical, but he agreed to meet him and try him out. Once they met they hit it off immediately, and Tim realized he had found the voice of the ICWA. He’d work on finding him a color guy or two to work with, but Burt Busch would be their guy.

Who else would Tim White bring in? How might the introduction of a third up scale, well financed organization with major network coverage effect the landscape? The ICWA wasn’t jumping into the Monday Night Wars, but it was one more place with a budget to draw major talent… Talent that might have otherwise swayed the tide for one of the Monday night organizations. And while the ICWA wasn’t starting out on Monday nights, what’s to say they wouldn’t find their way into the thick of things down the road? There were a lot of unanswered questions, but for now it was enough to know that the professional wrestling scene was about to undertake yet another ground shaking development that could only make things more interesting for the fans, and more cut throat for those inside the industry.

NOTES: Bear with me. If I’m not doing this right, or doing it poorly, it’s my first time trying my hand at one of these diaries. My hope is that it will get better with time.

I do realize that TEW 2020 just came out and here I am starting a diary on 2016. I’m really using this as a test run. If I like it and I can do a fair job, I have every intention of starting a TEW 2020 diary when more 90s MODs come out for 2020.

I’m running this game off of the 1995 War of the Worlds mod done by TheHive. Obviously, I’ve made some tweaks to reflect the above written scenario, including creating the character Burt Busch to be the voice of the ICWA.

Originally when I set this up, the ICWA was going to be owned by News Corp. However, in a test run of the mod I skipped a couple of shows and got the ICWA kicked off the network. I quickly realized how detrimental belonging to a broadcaster could be when News Corp blocked me from negotiating with any other networks worth joining. So for the purposes of the story the ICWA belongs to News Corp, but for functionality purposes just in case I get kicked off the network again, I’ve elected to make Rupert Murdoch the owner instead of News Corp.

My first month of TV won’t count in my mind. I’ll only be running TV because I couldn’t figure out a way to make my TV start a month in. So I’ll run some cards just to keep the TV slot and not upset the network by canceling shows, but in my mind this MOD starts in September but the first episode of ICWA TV will really be Wk 1 October. The month prior is all about getting the right talent in place.

The ICWA is starting out at Cult level. The justification for that in my mind is that there will have been a window from late August to Wk 1 October for the ICWA to be hyped and advertised on various Fox properties and FX, plus the significant fiscal backing of Rupert Murdoch/News Corp/Fox/Etc.

Aug 09, 2020: Since starting this diary I've had a chance to look around at some other diaries and I realized that most folks have an annex or a table of contents page if you will. Something to get folks through the character rp pieces and the general comments straight to the shows. So, I've come back to edit my first message in this thread to place links for folks to easily access shows.

1995

ICWA Demented: Wk 1 Oct 1995 (Debut Episode)

ICWA Demented: Wk 02 Oct 1995 (Main Event - Roddy Piper Vs Konnan)

ICWA Demented: Wk 03 Oct 1995 (Main Event - 6 Man Tag DOA Vs Terry Funk, Ron Simmons & Roddy Piper)

ICWA Demented: Wk 04 Oct 1995 (Main Event - Terry Funk Vs Vader)

ICWA Demented: Wk 01 Nov 1995 (Main Event - National Title: Cactus Jack Vs Sabu)

ICWA Demented & Collision Debut: Wk 02 Nov 1995 (Main Event - Steve Austin Vs Road Warrior Hawk)

ICWA Demented: Wk 03 Nov 1995 (Main Event - National Title: Steve Austin Vs Cactus Jack)

ICWA Collision (B Show): Wk 03 Nov 1995 (Main Event - Jake Roberts Vs Ron Simmons)

ICWA Demented: Wk 04 Nov 1995 ( Main Event - Terry Funk Vs Sabu)

ICWA Collision: Wk 04 Nov 1995 (Main Event - Cactus Jack Vs Maniac Manson)

ICWA Demented: Wk 01 Dec 1995 (Main Event - Steve Austin & Vader Vs Cactus Jack & Terry Funk)

ICWA Collision: Wk 01 Dec 1995 (Main Event - Hercules & Barbarian Vs The Steiner Brothers)

ICWA Demented: Wk 02 Dec 1995 (Main Event - Scott Steiner Vs Vader)

ICWA Collision: Wk 02 Dec 1995 (Main Event - National Title: Hacksaw Jim Duggan Vs Steve Austin)

ICWA Demented: Wk 03 Dec 1995 (Main Event - Tully Blanchard (w/ Baby Doll) Vs Terry Funk)

ICWA Collision: Wk 03 Dec 1995 (Main Event - Jake Roberts Vs Barry Windham Feat: Title Tournament Promos by Cactus Jack, Harley Race/Vader, & Others)

ICWA Demented: Wk 04 Dec 1995 (Main Event - Vader (w/ Harley Race) Vs Cactus Jack)

ICWA Collision: Wk 04 Dec 1995 (Main Event - World Title Tournament Promo by Roddy Piper)

1996

ICWA Demented: Wk 01 Jan 1996 (Main Event - Tournament Semi Finals: Roddy Piper Vs Tully Blanchard / Demented Gets A New Look)

joshspicer · June 1, 2020

A Fox proper owned wrestling company.

You have my attention.

corporate_icon · June 3, 2020

Preparing for October

A Change In The Landscape: Installment 002

Preparing For October

Written from the perspective of Tim White

So I’d done it. The one thing I thought I’d never do, I did it. I left Vince McMahon and the World Wrestling Federation. Had you told me in July that the day would ever come where I’d voluntarily part from the WWF, I’d have said you were crazy. But when Mark Sonnenberg called me up and started talking to me about building a new promotion, and getting people in place to debut on international television… All at a time when my own contract was entering a negotiation period? How could I not consider it? I’d always wanted to try my hand at the creative side of the business. I remember even back in the day when I’d be on car trips with Andre we’d talk about his angles and matches, and I’d always inevitably find myself going through months of fantasy booking, explaining what I’d do or who I’d get or how I’d have changed this or done that instead. As much as I loved Vince and the WWF, I was never going to get that opportunity there. Somehow or another I’d built a reputation as the lovable company guy who’d happily do any goffering you might need, but wasn’t somebody to look to for a creative contribution. I didn’t begrudge that reputation; the truth is, I earned it. I had spent most of my time with the WWF happy to just be on the road, drinking and having a great time with great friends. Over the years though, more and more of my friends were disappearing for one reason or another. My best friend Andre had died a couple of years ago, and it hit hard. Hulk left to go run wild on Hollywood and somehow ended up in Atlanta. Either way, he wasn’t with us in New York. Bobby Heanen and Gene Okurland both left. Piper would pop in and out, but he wasn’t around like he used to be. I loved all of these guys. I loved traveling and spending time with these guys. When they were around, it was like that old adage: “If you find a job you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” It was true. It never felt like work back then.

Listen, don’t get me wrong. I’m not ignorant to the fact that even now, I still have a great gig. I make a fair wage, I get to travel -and for me, that’s a plus because I love to travel-… I know I’ve got nothing to bitch about. But the fact remains that over the course of time I became less and less content just being a reliable goffer and a dependable referee. I wanted to branch out, to do more. At the very least I wanted to try. So, when Mark called and asked me to recommend somebody to run the day to day operations of a new wrestling promotion that was being financed by a billionaire atop of a media empire, I recommended me! Who else was going to recommend me? Besides, when was I ever going to get this type of opportunity again?

Now that I got the job, it was time to prove myself capable. I gave notice at the WWF that I wouldn’t be renewing my contract. I had a sinking feeling in my gut all day long leading to the conversation with JJ Dillon about my contract. I went into JJ’s office and I explained everything I’d already put on paper and sent to him and Vince. JJ simply nodded, said he understood and wished me well. It was very amicable. On my last event for the WWF, I spoke with Vince for the first time since I put in my notice. I had been kind of hurt by the fact that this man who I’d worked for diligently for a decade, hadn’t even bothered to say “I’m sorry to see you go,” or “Go f**k yourself,” or whatever… Something… Anything to let me know he thought I’d had even a miniscule impact on the company over the last ten years. I won’t lie, when I finally did see him I was kind of pouting inside, like a child. He’s had weeks to react to my notice and now on my last day he’s going to come talk to me? There was a part of me that wanted to stomp my feet and tell him off before I grabbed my ball to play somewhere else.

Vince walked up to me and he said, “Hey Pal, I guess this is it?”

I nodded, “Yeah…”

He nodded back and put a hand on my shoulder as he said, “In our business it’s hard to find someone you can depend on, and trust. To find someone who is willing to put ego aside when there’s work to be done that may not seem particularly becoming, and willing to show up and deliver a hundred percent all day every day. You have always been one of those guys, Tim. I want you to know that I realize that, and if things don’t work out with this new gig, there will always be a spot for you in the World Wrestling Federation.”

And like that I went from feeling like throwing a tantrum, to feeling about half an inch tall. We shook hands, we hugged, and before I could say anything back he got pulled away. I wasn’t sure if I’d ever see Vince again. The ICWA wasn’t going to air on Monday nights, so I wasn’t necessarily leaving to directly compete with Vince or the WWF. But, I was going to a place that could match money with Vince and Turner, and in many ways outside of Monday night ratings, we would be competing.

Of course, it wouldn’t be much of a competition if I didn’t start to assemble a team. I needed the right people around me. I needed people backstage to help with creative, and to help keep the talent in line… I needed TALENT. I had to have workers who could draw and workers who could become draws. I had to have some name power, and so far WCW had acquired the vast majority of anybody who was still active that had ever had a name. Nevertheless, I had some long-standing relationships that I’d be looking to utilize.

Technically speaking, the first guy I hired was Burt Busch. He was an unknown who I believed could end up being the next Gordon Solie or Lance Russell he was so good. He blew me away. But, that wasn’t a hire I went looking for. That was somebody Mark Sonnenberg wanted me to hire, and I just happened to get onboard with. The first guy I wanted to hire was Bruce Prichard.

Bruce Prichard was probably best known to fans for the Brother Love character he played on TV for a while. A red-faced preacher who was essentially a spoof of the big TV evangelists of the 80s. But inside the business Bruce was a well-respected part of the creative. He was a fantastic producer. He had a lot of great booking ideas and angles. Bruce went through cycles with Vince. A lot of the time he was Vince’s right-hand man, but periodically he’d get on the outs with Vince. Whenever you’re on the outs with Vince, life becomes miserable. It just so happened that now was one of those times. So, I approached Bruce. He was interested, but hesitant. I couldn’t blame him. It wasn’t like I was pitching him on WCW that had a track record and a structure well in place. Until we actually debut on TV, ICWA is just an idea. It’s a concept. It’s a lot to ask a man who has a paying gig to jump ship to something that has no evidence of being able to succeed and last. Nevertheless, Bruce was at least willing to fly out to LA and meet with Mark and I. Once he met Mark and got to visit an actual office and realized there really was a legitimate plan in place with serious backing, Bruce became much more receptive, and we made a deal.

Bruce was going to come on both as an on air personality, and to be my right hand man. He was going to school me in booking and all of the creative stuff. When Bruce and I got talking about talent, and who was available that didn’t have a long standing deal with either Turner or McMahon, we both zeroed in on one name almost immediately…. Rowdy Roddy Piper. We’d both been close with Piper, Bruce even more so than I. He was going to be our star talent if he’d sign with us. We’d build the rest of the roster from there.

Over the course of the next month the company was going to invest huge sums of money and TV Time into advertising the debut of the ICWA. Live on Tuesday October 3rd, 1995, the ICWA would debut on FX and FX Canada. And when we did, we needed to have the names to keep all those eyeballs that the advertising brought us, and to begin pulling even more eyeballs. We believed Piper could be a huge part of that, but with or without Piper, we’d need a whole lot more to make the return on this investment worth it for Rupert Murdoch and News Corp. Acquiring talent and staff and preparing for that debut episode of ICWA television will be our focus for the next few weeks.

corporate_icon · June 6, 2020

Trying To Get The Pied Piper To Lead Us Home

A Change In The Landscape: Installment 003

Trying To Get The Pied Piper To Lead Us Home

Written from the perspective of Tim White

Bruce and I had sent out a lot of feelers, and we had a lot of responses. There were a small handful of guys we knew were available, that we felt like we really needed to go out of our way to obtain. Anybody else would be icying on the cake, but these few guys would bring enough star power, experience, and ability to really get us out of the chute in a big way.

I had a few long meetings with Mark Sonnenberg and Anne Sweeny about budgets and expectations. Anne made it clear to me how much they were willing to invest in a talent pool, and I explained how I expected to need. Once we agreed on an overall budget, I was told how I allocated those funds were entirely up to me, but if I needed to exceed them I would have to make a Hell of a case. The truth was, what they were offering was well and above what I expected to need. The goal was to drive traffic to FX and FX Canada. Build these two infant brands, and this company that was used to shelling out Hollywood contracts, had no idea what the pay scale was in wrestling. That being said, I wasn’t going to go out and be nuts. We needed to be fragile… Or at least cautious. If we spent too much up front and lost our ass, there wouldn’t be anything left to try and pull it back up with. But, we certainly weren’t going to have to worry about not holding up next to our competitors. The company had invested in the finest production and backstage crew that the wrestling industry had ever seen.

FX took care of all of that, Bruce and I had to deal with getting the other parts of the team put together. Road Agents, on air talent… When I first went to work with Vince, Bruno was still around. I didn’t spend a ton of time with Bruno, but we got along really well when we did get around each other. He was one of the first people I thought to call to help keep the lockeroom in line, and help mentor the young guys. He was pretty receptive at first, but when I explained the direction I saw us going, he lost interest.

See, I feel like wrestling is in a state of flux. It’s undergoing a change. And I think we need to be a little more… I don’t know… aggressive? Push the envelope a little if you will. Look, I’m not reinventing the wheel here. Up in the North East I’ve been watching this promotion, ECW. If you haven’t seen it don’t feel bad, it doesn’t have a very broad broadcasting range. But I watch ECW and some of the stuff they’ve been doing there, and I kind of feel like they’ve got their finger on the pulse in many respects. Bruce doesn’t see it, but I do. Which consequently is why I’ve made some very solid offers to quite a few workers they’ve been using. Somewhere along the way Johnny Polo became “Raven,” and I gotta tell ya, I love it. What a unique character with great potentially. Raven talked me into bringing on Stevie Richards, Blue Meanie, Axel Rotten and the Pitbulls. He also paved the way for me to talk to a couple of other guys I was interested in that were working there.

Bruce got the ball rolling with Terry Funk. Terry Funk has been retiring for almost as long as I’ve been refereeing, but Bruce convinced him to give it a go with us for a while. That’s a huge win for us in the star power column. I grant you he’s not Hulk Hogan or Randy Savage, but he’s still a very legitimate name in our industry. Terry got me hip to Mick Foley who plays this weird Charlie Manson looking character Cactus Jack. I’ve seen some of Jack’s work in WCW and ECW… That’s a guy who defines the “I don’t know what ‘it’ is, but you’ve got it” cliché.

Bruce also got in touch with former AWA World Champion Nick Bockwinkle about doing our color. Bruce is still very close with Bobby The Brain, and Bobby put Bruce in touch with Nick. I don’t know if he’s going to be a permanent fixture at ringside with Burt Busch, but after my talks with Jesse Ventura about coming in, I was pretty easily sold on anybody not named Jesse Ventura.

Bruce and I both approached Harley Race about coming in as an Agent. He was interested, but felt he still had a few more years he could contribute on air. So we agreed on bringing him in as a manager. Interestingly, I’d already started talking Leon about coming in as Vader, so it really worked out that Harley wanted to do a little more managing. That Vader/Race package really worked I felt when I’d catch the occasional WCW show a few years ago.

But the center piece of this whole thing Bruce and I agreed was Roddy Piper. We had to get Roddy. Bruce and I had met up with Roddy a couple of times since we first set our sights on signing him, but he always had a reason not to commit. Either his agent had movie offers that Piper needed to field first, or he had heard from JJ in Stanford or Flair was calling him up in Atlanta, or he just wanted to stay at home for a while and relax… There was always something. There aren’t many performers I’d keep going back to after that many excuses. I can take a hint, and ordinarily I’d say that I have my pride. But both Bruce and I passionately believe that Roddy Piper is the only guy left out there who has enough star power, ability, and respect from fans and workers alike to build a company around. You could make the case that Terry Funk could be that guy, and if we can’t sign Roddy we may very well end up testing that theory. For my money though, Piper’s the key. We’re about a week out from our first TV and Bruce has finally gotten him to agree to meet us in Florida -the home of the debut episode of ICWA Demented- to have one last negotiation. We launch Demented on Tuesday, so we’re going to be cutting it close. We shall see how it goes.

corporate_icon · June 7, 2020

History Will Be Made

A Change In The Landscape: Installment 004

History Will Be Made

Written from the perspective of Tim White

Tonight was going to be the night! ICWA Demented LIVE On FX and FX Canada. That “live” part had been a huge debate within the company a few weeks ago. There were some who felt like we should air pre-recorded shows like Monday Night Raw -and like pretty much all televised wrestling pre-Nitro-. But, I really felt like Eric Bischoff had changed the landscape with putting live wrestling on TV last month. After watching that debut episode of Nitro on TNT, and just the whole big time feel of it… The genuine shock of seeing Lex Luger show up, and there having been no opportunity for somebody to report it to the sheets before it made TV… I was captivated by it. You simply couldn’t deny that Nitro felt much more spontaneous than Raw. I’ve always felt any sport feels more captivating if you know you’re watching it live. I may not have seen the ball game, but if it’s on VHS waiting for me when I get off the road, I just can’t get in the moment like I can if I’m able to catch it live.

We were going to debut at the Hard Rock Arena in Florida. Florida somehow had managed to remain a bit of a hot bed for wrestling. A lot of the country had seemingly lost interest over the last few years, but Florida still had solid turn outs for shows, so we hoped that we’d be able to get a decent crowd for our debut show if we held it in Florida. We sold about three thousand in advanced ticket sales. If we can get another thousand or so at the door, we’ll be about where we hoped to be.

A month ago I was worried about having the talent to launch a major wrestling promotion, but man have we got talent. Early on Bruce and I recognized the need to get some folks on board that could help us scout talent. Folks that’d probably serve as agents once we got up and rolling. We got Les Thatcher, Rick Steamboat, Dory Funk Jr, Kevin Von Erich and a couple of others and we looked long and hard at talent all over the place. We’ve got folks the world has seen, and folks that have no name recognition at all, but man do they have potential to be big time stars. We got a surprising amount of Canadians -not that there’s anything wrong with that of course-.

Bruce and I talked it over, and I’m going to continue to referee. I enjoy the work. Or at least the on air part of the work. Putting up and tearing down the ring and that other stuff can keep on keeping on. Anyway… Originally I contemplated being the senior referee, but then I got word that Tommy Young was interested in getting back in the game, and I immediately reached out and offered him the job. When the best in the business is available, you don’t pass ‘em up to put yourself over. Besides, it frees me up to really watch our main events as they’re going on, which is nice.

Speaking of main events, Bruce and I had to write TV tonight with two different main events in place because we’re still not sure where we stand with Piper. We met for dinner last night, and it seemed to go fine, but Roddy wanted to mull it over. So here we are hours from opening bell and I’ve not seen hide nor hair of Piper. Bruce thinks it’s time to accept that he’s not going to come on board. We knew going in that WCW had put out feelers to Roddy around the same time we did. I’m not ready to throw in the towel, but then again, it is show day and he’s not here sooo….. yeah.

On the flip side, there’s a whole lot of people who ARE here. And since we ended up putting together such a deep roster, we’ve decided to do a thirty one man World’s Heavyweight Title tournament to crown our first champion. I’m very excited about it. We have a bracket that features Piper, and a bracket that doesn’t. I’m very excited about both. I love tournaments. I don’t know why, I just always have.

Oh geez, is that the time? I guess I better get our final production meeting. Well, ready or not wrestling world, here we come! Tonight is going to be one for the history books, one way or the other. Hopefully it’s recorded as the beginning of something glorious, and not a footnote about prowrestling as a general topic during this period. We shall see.

corporate_icon · June 8, 2020

DEBUT EPISODE of ICWA Demented on FX & FX Canada

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As the clock strikes 9pm EST, for the first time ever on FX and FX Canada the music begins to play. A high energy heavy hitting rock tune that from this point on would simply be known as “The Demented Theme” as people across TV land see a video collage pulsing green lights and various imagery of in ring action where faces are mostly obscured or difficult to see.

As the music continues, we switch from the video to the where tight and precise camera shots make the crowd seem bigger than it is. At ringside, standing behind a commentary table in a suit and tie is an unknown to the wrestling world in newcomer commentator Burt Busch.

http://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/BurtBusch.jpg

Beside him, a man who should need no introduction, the former AWA World’s Heavyweight Champion, Nick Bockwinkle.

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The music continues as the crowd remains on their feet, but we focus on our standing commentators.

Burt Busch, “October third, nineteen ninety five! Mark it down, because HISTORY is in the making as for the first time ever, we present to you LIVE on FX and FX Canada… ICWA DEMENTED! My name is Burt Busch, and beside me is one of the most respected and decorated competitors to ever step foot between the ropes… Multi-time world heavyweight champion, Nick Bockwinkle!”

Bockwinkle, “Thank you Burt. Your adulation while accurate, is hardly adequate. Nevertheless, for as privileged as you are to have me, I feel equally privileged to be here tonight as the International Championship Wrestling Association begins to blaze a trail through the landscape of the professional wrestling world.”

Burt Busch, “Folks, we have got a stacked line up for you here tonight. Right here on FX we’re going to bring you LIVE a Tag Team championship contest as the number one ranked tag team in the world, Rick and Scott Steiner – The Steiner Brothers- will challenge the National Wrestling Conference Tag Team Champions in what will be the very last National Wrestling Conference tag team title match ever, and the very FIRST ICWA World Tag Team title bout ever!”

The Demented Theme fades in the background, leaving the sound of the crowd.

Bockwinkle, “The National Wrestling Conference has been absorbed by the ICWA, and if you weren’t familiar with the Conference prior to this evening, worry not as it won’t matter after this evening.”

Burt Busch, “Well…”

{END OPENING HYPE Angle: B –} { START PROMO ANGLE}

Before Burt can finish that thought, “8 Second Ride” by Chris LeDoux begins blasting over the PA. Out from behind the curtain to a ruckus reception emerges…

http://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/TerryFunk95.jpg

Burt Busch, “Hold That Thought! Here he comes…”

Ring Announcer, “Ladies and Gentlemen… Please Welcome, direct from the Double Cross Ranch in Amarillo Texas…. TERRRRRRRY… FUUUUUUNK!”

Funk throws his fist up and continues down the ramp as Burt Busch exclaims, “Straight from the Double Cross Ranch indeed! Former NWA Heavyweight Champion Terry Funk kicking things off here tonight on this inaugural episode of ICWA Demented.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Terry Funk is a master of this sport. The last I had heard however, Terry Funk was preparing for retirement. I’m interested to find out what his purpose here tonight is.”

As Terry gets into the ring and accepts the microphone from the ring announcer, the music fades as the crowd buzzes.

Terry Funk, “Ya know, at my age in this sport, you start to have to take some real long looks in the mirror, and have some very serious conversations with yourself. When’s the right time to hang it up and call it a career? I’ve been the NWA Heavyweight Champion, I’ve been to the mountain top a time or two… I’ve shed sweat and blood on every densely populated continent in the world. I’ve been hit with barbwire and baseball bats and brandin’ irons, and even a fireball or two. I’ve done some hittin’ of my own with all those things, and these two fists right here.”

Terry balls up his fists as the crowd cheers.

Terry Funk, “Anyway… I got to thinkin’ that maybe I’d done everything I needed to do, and it was time for this desperado to finally come down from the fences and call it a day. Then I started hearing this buzz on the streets about this brand new wrasslin promotion that was going to hit the airwaves. The ICWA… Where wrestling was going to be wrestling again, and where the sport of professional wrestling would be respected again. I began hearing all the buzz, and my phone started ringing off the hook. I started hearing about who all was gonna be here, and I realized that the ICWA was going to be the hotbed of professional wrestling in the nineties. I realized that for the first time in a long time, there was going to be a place where only the absolute best could prevail, and that was a place that I needed to be.”

Terry nods, “Ya see, I don’t know what I’ve got anymore, but I know this… Whatever I’ve got, I won’t be able to rest at night feeling like I’ve truly put in a full career without testing my mettle here in the ICWA. And as much as I respect and adore all of the other championships I’ve won over the years… I won’t be able to rest at night without fightin’ and scratchin’ and doin’ every thing in my power to become the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Wrestling Champion!”

The crowd cheers louder as Terry slowly paces the ring.

Terry, “So, my understanding is that the ICWA is throwing one Hell of a world title tournament, and I want everybody in that tournament to know…”

With that an instrumental sounding similar to an instrumental version of “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC abruptly cuts Terry Funk off.

Burt Busch, “Terry Funk mentioning our ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament, and folks we’re going to have more on that here in a little bit. Thirty one men will enter, only one will emerge as the crowned champion of our sport…”

Before Burt can get any more into that, the curtain moves to the side and out from the back emerge three big bad lookin SOBs in blue jeans, leather jackets, sunglasses, long hair and bandanas. Oh yeah, and a big bad lookin’ blonde “lady” and a brunette in similar garb.

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The crowd instinctively boos as the man in the center stands on the stage holding a microphone, allowing for the music to fade.

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“OLD MAAAN… Nobody’s given a good God damn about anything you’ve had to say for a long time!”

Burt Busch, “That ain’t true!”

“Incase you don’t already know, allow me to introduce ourselves. We’ve got Snake over there, Brian and Amy Lee over here, my Woman right here and me… I’m Cyrus, and we are the Disciples of Apocalypse. Now consider yourself on notice mother-Funker…. This territory belongs to the DOA, and if you don’t cart your broken ass outta here, we’ll make you DOA too…. Dead on Arrival.”

Burt Busch, “Oh man…”

Terry, “Is that so?”

Cyrus, “Yeah, that’s so.”

Terry, “Well then…. I guess you’re just gonna have to do, what ya have to do boys.”

Terry funk tosses the mic to the side and balls up his fists, taking a fighting stance. Cyrus smirks and snarls at the same time as he begins walking down the aisle with the DOA in tow.

Burt Busch, “Wait a minute… Wait just a minute… “

Nick Bockwinkle, “A lesson you learn early on in this sport is that sometimes discretion is the better part of valor. Evidently, that is a lesson that Mr. Funk has somehow failed to learn along the way.

As the DOA are about to get to ringside the crowd explodes as somebody darts down the aisle and cracks Snake across the back with a steel chair.

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Burt Busch, “RON SIMMONS! RON SIMMONS! Ron Simmons has come out to try and even the odds!”

As Cyrus and Brian Lee turn to see what’s going on, Funk darts out of the ring and rushes Cyrus from behind with a big forearm to the back as Simmons immediately begins engaging Brian Lee with fists. Woman scatters out of the way, and Amy Lee begins shouting at Ron and Terry, but stays far enough back to avoid the risk of engaging them.

Burt Busch, “Terry Funk and Ron Simmons and taking it to the Disciples of Apocalypse, and these fans are on their feet!”

Referees and Agents begin to flood the area to start pulling folks apart as all of the men involved are trying to lunge at each other.

Nick Bockwinkle, “We’ve been on the air for mere moments, and already it’s pandemonium here on ICWA Demented on FX! If this is how our night is beginning, what can we possibly expect from the rest of the evening?”

Burt Busch, “Well I’ll tell ya what, this is just the tip of the iceberg! Folks, when we come back we’ll talk more about the huge world title tournament Terry Funk alluded to moments ago, PLUS, We have got some real knock down drag out bouts set to take place tonight! The First ever ICWA World Tag Team Champions will be crowned here tonight! We’ll have our first world title qualifying bout, plus we’re going to continue to follow this situation between the DOA, Terry Funk and Ron Simmons. All this and SO MUCH MORE… DON’T TOUCH THAT DIAL!”

{Angle featuring Terry Funk/DOA/Ron Simmons received a C+ rating}

*Commercial Break*

[sEGMENT: Main Event Plug]

Somewhere between a replay of what fans may have missed before the commercial, and the entrances for the next bout, Burt Busch lets folks know that due to what happened moments ago, we will see a tag team main event as members of the DOA go toe to toe with Ron Simmons and Terry Funk live tonight.

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Opening Bout

Dean Malenko Vs Ultimo Dragon

Referee: Scrappy McGowan

Road Agent: Les Thatcher

Dean Malenko got a pin out of no where in a match that had little heat. Rating: D

{Interview Angle}

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[interview with Miss Elizabeth who says she’s glad to be in the ICWA, and looking forward to standing beside the next ICWA World Heavyweight Champion, Doug Gilbert. She mentions Doug is wrapping up commitments out of the country right now, but next week he’ll be here to take part in his world title tournament qualifying match. Before she can wrap up the interview, Lexi York walks into the scene and trash talks Elizabeth and the managerial structure of the ICWA, who left her man out of the tournament. Lexi threatens that Elizabeth and her man had better be careful. As she walks off, Elizabeth and Larry Matysik look at each other a little confused]

Liz/Lexi York Promo: C Rating

[Angle: Hype for Sabu up Next: B Rating]

*Commercial Break*

Sabu’s opponent is already standing in the ring as Sabu’s theme music hits. Sabu emerges from the curtain with the ICWA National Heavyweight Championship around his waist. Burt Busch explains more about how the National Wrestling Conference once existed where the ICWA is now, and Sabu was their National Heavyweight Champion. Our of respect for the lineage of the NWC, The ICWA will retained the National Heavyweight Championship as a singles wrestling title. Additionally, because Sabu is the ICWA National Heavyweight Champion, and because there is no World Heavyweight champion, Sabu has been acknowledged as the top contender for the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Championship. As such, Sabu has been given a Bye in the qualifying round of the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Title tournament, and has automatically been advanced to the first official round of the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Title Tournament. Hence why the World Title Tournament event is 31 man, and not 32 man.

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Sabu Vs Silver Wings

REF: MICKY JAY

RA: Kevin Von Erich

Busch and Bockwinkle get over that Sabu is a wild, aggressive champion with no regard for himself or anybody else. Sabu squashes Silver Wings in a couple of minutes for a D Rating

[backstage Segment Involving:

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Larry Matysik interviews Terry Funk and Ron Simmons, making sure to put over Ron Simmons as a former heavyweight champion and a college football star. Funk tells Ron he didn’t ask for any help, and Simmons lets Funk know that just because he wasn’t going to stand by and watch a three on one mugging of a legend doesn’t mean that Ron won’t jack Funk up himself if they should end up across from each other in the World Title tournament. Funk says he wouldn’t expect anything less, and while things are tense, it seems like they’ll be good to go as a team later on tonight.

{Funk/Simmons Promo garnered a C Rating }

*Commercial Break*

[Angle Involving:

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Beulah McGillicutty and Missy Hyatt are talking backstage when Reggie Bennett walks into the scene with the Women’s World Title on her shoulder. Burt Busch lets us know that there was a one night tournament in Japan recently to crown the first ever ICWA Women’s World champion in anticipation of the ICWA’s television debut tonight. He explains that Reggie dominated the tournament, and looks like she could do the same to the women’s wrestling scene back here at home. Reggie snickers at the women in her site and walks off.

{Reggie/Beulah/Missy Angle received a C- Rating}

Match

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QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

Cactus Jack Vs One Man Gang

Referee: Dick Woerhle

Road Agent: Bob Armstrong

Cactus Jack has successfully qualified to advance to the opening round of the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Title tournament as he defeated One Man Gang with a double arm DDT in a solid 8 minute match up that saw fair heat. C Rating

*Commercial Break*

When we fade back in from commercials, we find ourselves in what appears to be somebody’s living room. Sitting on a couch in that living room is…

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“For months now, I’ve been sitting right here on this couch with a torn bicep, just chompin’ at the bit to make my way back into the ring and do what I do better than anybody else in the world… Whip somebody’s ass! If you don’t already know who I am, then you better pull your dumpy ass out from under whatever rock you’ve been livin’, and pay attention. This little ICWA World title tournament… All the greatest athletes and wrestlers and in the world, competing to be thee number one wrestler in the world… Well EH-EH… I don’t think so! Because you are looking at the number one wrestler in the world, and if it wasn’t for this damn arm, I’d whip every last sum-bitch in that tournament and become the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Champion.”

Austin takes a deep breath through his nose and shakes his head.

“Since that ain’t an option, I guess I’m gonna have to do things another way. So Cactus Jack, Sabu, Terry Funk, Ron Simmons and whoever the Hell else… ya’ll go on ahead and have your little tournament. But you just know that when it’s all said and done, whichever damn one-uh-ya that walks away with the belt is walking your happy ass right out of the frying pan and into the God damn fire son! I will be waiting, and I WILL be, the World’s Heavyweight Champion like I always knew that I COULD and SHOULD be.”

With that Austin’s cold dark eyes stare into the camera as we fade from the video back to the ring.

{Austin Angle received a B+ Rating}

Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle put over Steve Austin as we transition into

Match

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ICWA World Tag Team Titles

RVD & Bobby Bradley Vs The Steiner Brothers

Referee: Mark Curtis

Road Agent: Larry Sharpe

The Steiners retire the NWC Tag Team Titles and become the very first ICWA World Tag Team champions when Scott Steiner pins Bob Bradley decisively in a short, onesided contest. C- Rating

As the Steiner’s celebrate, we go to an image we’re told is Satellite Footage of...

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...Bam Bam Gordy and Dr. Death in their gear in a lockeroom in Japan. Gordy explains that while the Steiners win was impressive, the Miracle Violence Connection just finished destroying the last tag team that the orient had left, and the Steiners will be their next victims, and the ICWA Tag Titles their next prize. The Steiners seem unintimidated, as Busch puts over what a huge clash of the titans that bout could be and we head to commercial.

{Gordy/Williams Angle rated C}

*Commercial Break*

Match

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QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

Tatanka Vs Tully Blanchard W/ Baby Doll

Referee: Tim White

Road Agent: Ricky Steamboat

Tully Blanchard advances by getting Tatanka to chase him on the floor, and then getting Baby Doll to hide around the ring, eventually snagging Tatanka’s leg as Tully slides in late in the count and Tatanka gets counted out on the floor. D+ Match rating

[Main Event Hype C+]

*Commercial Break*

MAIN EVENT

Cyrus joins on commentary with Woman in his lap as Brian Lee and Snake work the match with Amy Lee on the floor. Funk and Simmons start out hot, with frequent tags, but eventually Amy trips up a running Funk from the floor, which makes Funk stumble into a hell of a clothesline from Snake. From there on Snake and Brian Lee put the heat on Funk, keeping him isolated and really pounding on him. Funk eventually makes the hot tag, Simmons cleans house and then things start going back and forth. Amy distracts the referee which allows Cyrus to slide in and powerbomb Funk. Simmons clotheslines Cyrus to the floor, Which allows Brian Lee to shoot in and dump Simmons up and over to the floor as Well. Brian Lee goes to grab Funk, but Funk small packages him. Amy still has the referee, however he does turn around and get down. It might have been a 3 had he not started out distracted, but it’s only a two. Both men shoot up, but Funk is able to sweep the legs. Amy jumps back up which draws the ref. Funk starts to apply the spinning toe hold, but as he does he spins right into a kick to the gut from Snake, who drives Funk into the mat with the pump handle power slam. 1, 2, Simmons tries to save but Cyrus reaches in and trips him up, 3.

Simmons is about to come down after Cyrus but Brian Lee jumps him from behind. Snake and Brian Lee start stomping away at Funk and Simmons as Cyrus grabs a chair and heads into the ring.

Burt Busch, “Oh come on! For God Sakes man!”

Cyrus starts to slam the steel chair over the back of Terry Funk as Snake and Lee continue stomping away at Simmons. The bell is going off like crazy, the fans booing when all of a sudden the immortal sound of bag pipes hits the sound system making the crowd leap to their feet…

Burt Busch, “This is a damn mugging! It’s a mugging and… WAIT… IS THAT?! IS THAT?! MY GOD IT IS! IT’S ROWDY RODDY PIPER!!”

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Roddy Piper comes out of the curtain like a crazy man, in his white t shirt, kilt, and slapping his steel chair. Piper darts down and as he does, Cyrus grabs the attention of his boys just in the nick of time to have all three bail through the ropes as Piper slides in and threatens to smash anything moving with his chair.

Burt Busch, “THE HOT ROD, RODDY PIPER HAS ARRIVED TO THE EYE SEE DOUBLE-YOU EH! And Might I say, he couldn’t have arrived at a better time! The DOA is back peddlin on outta here, and RODDY PIPER is the one responsible!”

As the DOA begins back stepping up the aisle, Cyrus is waving his finger and shaking his head. The camera can pick him up saying, “Not Yet Hot Rod… Not yet.”

Piper is screaming, begging them to come back.

Burt Busch, “Roddy Piper is here, the DOA is heading out, and folks, what will this mean for next week when we return right here on FX?! The World title tournament will continue! We know that Doug Gilbert will meet Austin Idol in a qualifying match up, and… Wait a minute… What’s that? I’m being told through my headset that… yes… Yes I can confirm, Roddy Piper WILL be IN ACTION LIVE Next week, right here on Demented!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “That will be combustible to say the least.”

Burt Busch, “Absolutely! Folks, We’ve gotta go! For Nick Bockwinkle, I’m Burt Busch, this has been ICWA Demented, and we’ll see ya next week!”

The copyright information comes up as the bag pipes continue and we see Funk and Simmons beginning to stir in the background.

{Match was a C+, Post match angle with Piper's return was an A. Post Show promo by Piper is also an A.}

Historian · June 8, 2020

Really good first show!

corporate_icon · June 9, 2020

Thanks Historian!

General Notes:

So I had actually looked at some Diaries to get an idea of what the standard layout and format should look like a few weeks before I decided what I wanted to do a diary about. Once I got the concept for my diary, I got so excited about it I kind of forgot that there is some semblance of structure / uniformity to the diaries, and I just started posting stuff.

Once I got going, I ended up doing this will we or won't we sign Piper angle, so I didn't want to give it away by posting a roster -even though it was probably obvious ICWA would sign Piper-. So now, my next intended post to do a post with a roster, a summary of what this diary is about, and all of that sort of stuff. Consider everything up to the first Demented a prelude of sorts.

When I post the roster, you'll notice -as you may have in the first show I posted- that there are some familiar faces with unfamiliar names. In an effort to err toward realism -says the guy who started the game with Rupert Murdoch winning a wrestling company at a poker game, I know- I decided that certain gimmicks wouldn't fly based on the time frame. For example, I signed Adam Copeland but Edge was a WWF created gimmick that wouldn't occur for a couple of years, so in the ICWA he's been renamed Ty Adams. Brian Adams was famous at this point as Crush, but Crush is a WWF owned gimmick, so in the ICWA I've renamed him Cyrus (and the ECW Cyrus the Virus gimmick doesn't exist yet in 95, so no worries there). I did steal DOA which wouldn't be a thing for another year or two, and I'm pretty sure was probably a Vince Russo gimmick, but I've always thought that was the Perfect bike gang name, so I said Eff it in that case. Almost all other cases I tried to avoid just saying eff it.

Mankind during the brown outfit days is my favorite Mick Foley gimmick, but I won't use it unless he ends up going to the WWF at somepoint and I then get him back, because in my universe Mick doesn't go to the WWF in 96 and as such, Mankind has yet to be born.

So, I say all of that to say that when the roster comes out and you see Terri Runnels as "Lexi York" or Terri Powers changed to Traci Powers because WWF hasn't christened her Tori yet, and I didn't want a Terri Powers on the same roster as Terry Funk, this is why. It's not because I think that I can package them better than they were already packaged. I guarantee you Bubba Ray Dudley is infinitely better than the gimmick I have on the worker we all know as Bubba Dudley, it's just that in my world that worker gets picked up before he gets signed by ECW, and without going to ECW, He doesn't become a Dudley (although I may release him and resign him later, telling myself he surely got to ECW and became a Dudley while he was gone, because it seems like a travesty to deprive this game world of The Dudley Boy tag team).

So yeah. I'll have a roster up in the next couple of days. Followed by a non-show diary or two, and then Demented 002. Then I may ease off on the non-show diary entries to start getting some more TVs under our belt and dig through this World Title tournament. We'll see. Thanks!

corporate_icon · June 13, 2020

The Quest To Find Momentum

A Change In The Landscape: Installment 005

The Quest To Find Momentum

Written from the perspective of Tim White

The show had gone off the air, but Piper was still out there… Still riling them up. Finally from the gorilla area I heard Piper say, “WELL NOW FOLKS… I guess I better get outta here before they carry me out. Thanks fer comin’, tip the fellers at the door… Or ya know, don’t.”

With that a bag pipe melody began blasting over the PA again, narrowly denting the crowd’s chants of “ROD-IE! ROD-IE! ROD-IE!”

Piper found his way to the back where the DOA, Ron, and Terry were all waiting to shake his hand and give him the customary “Thanks” and “That-a-boy” exchanges. Piper did a lot of nodding and complimenting of his own. Bruce and I both waited for the crowd to disperse at the curtain before we approached him.

Bruce, “****ing fantastic Roddy…. I mean really… You haven’t lost a step.”

Roddy kinda shrugged as he said, “Well ya know…” in that way that he did.

Piper came through at the last minute and inked a deal. I can’t begin to express how huge this is for us. Roddy Piper is the guy. He’s the one guy not already signed by WCW or the WWF that I truly believe we can use to build the brand. He can be our rock to tie the ship to. In some ways, I think he might be the best guy we could have gotten, unsigned or even signed. I mean sure, it’s easy to say, “Well yeah, but Hulk Hogan is the biggest star in the cable TV era by far, “ and that’s true. But Hulk has to be fed stars, and sooner or later you run out of fodder, and the crowd gets burnt out on seeing the same schtick over and over. I LOVE Hulk. I think he’s a great guy, and he was a Hell of a lot of fun to be around when he was in New York, but you can see it over there in Atlanta… Hell you could see the last run he had in New York… People have had their fill. Hulkamania is Runnin’ Mild, brother. There’ll always be a spot in the business for Terry Boleba, but I’ll be surprised if Hulk Hogan makes it on TV another year, maybe two tops. Short of turning him heel, there’s nothing left to do with Hulk that’d be fresh. And I guarantee you Hulk Hogan isn’t turning heel. No way, no how, not a chance. Even if Terry would consider it for an inkling of a moment, who’d buy the Hulkster as a bad guy at this stage in the game anyway? Nope, the Hogan cash cow is all dried up.

Piper’s the guy. He’s still got mileage, he can work both ways, and he can both be the star, and build the stars. He can be on top, and help legitimize other guys as top guys to diversify the main event scene. I really feel good about this deal with Piper. And the beautiful thing about Piper is, he doesn’t need a belt. He’s proven it time and time again. He can get guys over, draw in fans, and do it all without having to wear a strap. I asked Bruce the other day, “Why didn’t Roddy ever get the strap in New York?” and he said, “He didn’t need it.” It was just true, Roddy didn’t need it.

We went out for steak and eggs at Denny’s after the show. Piper, Bruce and I. We discussed long term plans and I was pretty impressed by Piper’s vision not just for himself, but for other guys on the roster. He really put over Raven as a guy to keep an eye on for the future. He also suggested we reach out to a few guys that aren’t here yet. He didn’t mention anybody we hadn’t already short listed to call once their contracts were eligible for negotiations, but when a got like Roddy Piper’s showing enough interest to offer advice, you don’t say “Yeah-yeah Roddy, we know… We’ve got it covered… Just eat your eggs.” I mean come on. I’m just ecstatic he’s signed, and he appears to be all in.

Now the question was, can we turn tonight’s big debut into a precursor for next week’s big follow up? And could we take tonight and next week and officially declare the beginning of a successful momentum swing? It won’t be easy, but I feel good about the stuff Bruce and I have mapped out. This week the Hot Rod got Rowdy in Florida. What will we have in store next week? Hard to tell. What time is it? I guess I’ll call it a day.

Munit · June 13, 2020

Wow your roster is stacked! Great job with the first show. Loving that we get Steve Austin here <img alt="

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corporate_icon · June 13, 2020

Wow your roster is stacked! Great job with the first show. Loving that we get Steve Austin here

Thanks man, I appreciate that!

corporate_icon · June 14, 2020

ICWA Demented: Oct Wk 2, 1995 (Episode 002)

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[Angle: Show Opening]

As the previous program’s credits conclude, we fade into a well produced video giving us clips of what happened last week on the inaugural episode of Demented. We close that video on the image of Roddy Piper in the middle of the ring with a chair, the DOA back peddling up the aisle, and Funk and Simmons beginning to stir on the backside of the ring.

From there we go into the opening video and ICWA Demented theme song.

As the video wraps up we take some big shots around the arena showcasing the ruckus crowd on hand, and making it seem like the crowd is a bit bigger than it really is. At ringside are the tandem of Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle to give us the run down.

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Burt Busch, “Hello everybody, and WELCOME to ICWA Demented! Alongside the legendary Nick Bockwinkle, I’m Burt Busch and folks, have we got a hootenanny for ya tonight! We’re gonna have not one, not two, but THREE huge ICWA World Heavyweight Title tournament qualifying round match ups tonight!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “31 Men are in hot pursuit of the most prestigious prize in our sport, the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Championship. Or rather, as of last week there were thirty one. With the eliminations of One Man Gang via Cactus Jack and Tatanka via Tully Blanchard, we now have twenty nine competitors remaining on the tournament path. After tonight that number will shrink even further to twenty six.”

Burt Busch, “Absolutely… All three bouts are big time bouts. The young gun from Tennessee, Double J Jeff Jarrett, will have an opportunity to put his name on the map in a big-big way as he takes on the pride of Amarillo, Terry Funk.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “A huge opportunity for Mr. Jarrett to be sure, but perhaps an even larger challenge as Terry Funk showed the world last week that he is as prime as he has ever been.”

Burt Busch, “Speaking of last week, Elizabeth let us all know that her charge Doug Gilbert would be here tonight for his qualifying bout against Austin Idol. That could be the match of the night. Two seasoned veterans looking to take one giant leap toward capturing gold here tonight. And finally, our last and perhaps most highly anticipated tournament bout of the evening… Folks, it’s called a WORLD championship for a reason… One of the biggest stars in Latin America, Konnan, will challenge a man who made his presence known in no uncertain terms last week, the HOT ROD Rowdy Roddy Piper!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “This contest should be outstanding. Fans here in North America may feel like Konnan is out of his league being that he hasn’t made a name here in the states, but our fans south of the border might actually consider Roddy Piper at a disadvantage tonight. Make no mistake, just because Konnan hasn’t spent much time north of the border does not change the fact that he is a seasoned, well respected, main event player in our sport.”

Burt Busch, “Absolutely! A multi-time Heavyweight champion in his own right, if Konnan can get past Piper here tonight, he’d be an odds-on favorite to win this whole thing to folks in the know.”

[Opening Hype / Intro Received a B rating]

[Opening Match]

Opening Bout

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Rey Mysterio Vs Psicosis

Referee: Mark Curtis

Road Agent: Les Thatcher

{ In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Psicosis defeated Rey Misterio Jr. in 15:01 by pinfall with a Sky Twister Press. D+ Rating}

[Angle Involving…

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As the match wraps up we find ourselves backstage in front of the ICWA Banner as Larry Matysik is standing By with Konnan. Matysik runs through some of Konnan’s accolades in Mexico to get over that he’s a legitimate top guy despite a lack of name recognition here in the states. Konnan starts to talk about his pursuit of the ICWA World Heavyweight Title, and about knocking off Roddy Piper tonight when...

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...the full DOA Stable (Cyrus, Snake, Brian Lee, Woman & Amy Lee) walk into the scene. Cyrus recommends to Konnan that they may have a little business to discuss regarding the main event tonight. Konnan seems interested, and he leaves with the DOA, leaving Matysik in the lurch and Burt Busch speculating aloud about what this might mean for the world title tournament main event tonight as we fade to commercial.

{Segment Rated C - }

*Commercial Break*

When we return the Hardy Boys are already in the ring awaiting the next contest.

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Match Two

Tag Team

The Hardy Boys Vs The Miracle Violence Connection

Referee: Scrappy McGowan

Road Agent: Kevin Von Erich

{ In an extremely short match, Miracle Violence Connection defeated The Hardy Boys in 4:14 when Steve Williams defeated Jeff Hardy by pinfall with an Oklahoma Stampede. C – Match rating}

After the match Gordy and Williams do the title belt gesture around their wastes, reminding the Steiners that MVC is coming for their belts.

*Commercial Break*

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Paul Ellering is backstage with Larry Matysik to discuss the fact that his client, Roadwarrior Hawk is flying free, and coming to the ICWA to obtain his first ever SINGLES World’s Heavyweight Championship. Road Warrior Animal is out of the game for the foreseeable future, so Road Warrior Hawk is going to enter a new chapter in his storied career by becoming the first ever ICWA World’s Heavyweight champion. A chapter that will begin next week. Larry reminds Paul that might be easier said than done as Hawk’s qualifying match up next week is against none other than Jake “The Snake” Roberts. Ellering suggests that in the battle between Snake and Hawk, Hawk wins.

{D+ Rating}

Match

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Jeff Jarrett Vs Terry Funk

Referee: Dick Woehrle

Road Agent: Dory Funk Jr

{ In a bout that had fantastic heat and great wrestling, Terry Funk defeated Jeff Jarrett in 7:52 by pinfall with a fast roll up.}

Good match, Funk wins. Jarrett refuses to shake his hand. The lights go dark, and when they return Jarrett is gone, Funk is down on the mat and Sabu is on a knee pointing to the sky.

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Burt Busch, “What in the world?! SABU! Sabu was watching this one closely as the winner would meet Sabu in the next round of this World title tournament… Somewhere in the not so distant future we’re gonna see Sabu and Terry Funk go head to head in an effort to advance to the quarter finals of the ICWA World Heavyweight Tournament!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “And let us not forget that Sabu will go into that contest without having had to fight in a qualifying match up as a result of being automatically qualified due to his possession of the ICWA National Heavyweight Championship.”

Burt plugs that this is but the first of three qualifying match ups tonight, and when we return Doug Gilbert takes on Austin Idol in our second qualifier of the night.

{Jarrett/Funk post match segment w/ Sabu got a B - }

*Commercial Break*

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After the last commercial we go to the Reese’s Rewind which shows us the strange confrontation between Lexi York and Elizabeth last week on Demented.

{C Rating}

Match

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Austin Idol Vs Doug Gilbert w/ Elizabeth

Referee: Tim White

Road Agent: Bob Armstrong

{ In a decent match, Doug Gilbert defeated Austin Idol in 9:36 by pinfall with a Michinoku Driver. C -}

During the match we notice Lexi York sitting in the crowd next to a man in leather jacket with long curly hair and sun glasses. ECW Fans would recognize that man as Raven. They’d also recognize the three men seated to Raven’s left in order from nearest Raven to furthest as Stevie Richards, The Blue Meanie, and Axel Rotten.

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Throughout the match Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle will occasionally mention these folks, and how Raven (although they won’t use his name) must be the man left out of the tournament that Lexi York was talking about last week. As the match goes on Lexi, manages to get Elizabeth’s attention. Elizabeth tries to keep her distance, but Lexi throws a brown soda at her, soaking her hair and white dress as the crowd boos. Elizabeth takes a step forward, only for Raven and company to all stand up. Elizabeth stops in her tracks. Gilbert looks out and sees what’s going on. He’s about to come down through the ropes when Austin Idol school boys him from behind.

Burt Busch, “Idol’s gonna steal one! One! Two! Thre- OH! Gilbert kicks! Gilbert got distracted by what’s going on at ringside it almost cost him his shot at the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Championship!”

Gilbert and Idol both shoot up. Idol goes for a clothesline, Gilbert ducks under, Idol spins around and Gilbert scoops him up and drives him down with the sitout body slam.

Burt Busch, “OH MAN!”

Gilbert hooks the leg for the 1, 2, 3.

Gilbert wins via Pinfall

{End Match}

Gilbert immediately shoots out to the floor where Lexi and Elizabeth are shouting at each other. Doug grabs Elizabeth and pulls her back protectively, as Raven continues to stare a hole through Elizabeth. We can hear Gilbert deliver some choice words to Raven and company, although what those words are, we can’t quite tell. Gilbert grabs Elizabeth by the hand and walks backwards away from Raven, keeping his eyes on Raven as he scowls and talks inaudible trash. Raven never shows any reaction whatsoever, he just continues staring through Gilbert.

As Gilbert and Elizabeth make there way up the aisle, we see Larry Matysik come down to by them and to the ringside floor with his microphone.

Larry, “Sir… Last week Ms. York made grievance on air that her man was left out of the ICWA World Title Tournament. Are you her man?”

He turns the mic toward Raven who says nothing.

Larry, “Sir, What is your name?”

Again he turns the mic to Raven, and again Raven says nothing, but this time Stevie stretches over and says, “WHAT?! Everybody knows who this is! This is RAVEN!”

Raven turns to a proud Stevie Richards and snarls, before grabbing a big fist full of Stevie’s hair and yanking him forward.

Stevie, “AH! RAVEN?!”

Raven, “Did I ask you to speak for me?!”

Stevie, “I’m sorry! I’m sorry!”

The Meanie can be seen holding to his mouth, chuckling, as Axl Rotten glairs at Stevie and just shakes his head.

Raven turns back to Matsyik, glares, and then begins walking away through the crowd as Lexi York smirks, winks, and follows behind her man.

Burt Busch, “What in the world? Evidently he’s Raven… I don’t know what… I’m sure we’ll see more of this Raven, but when we come back it is finally time….”

{Raven’s Flock Vs Doug Gilbert Angle got a C Rating}

{Hype Angle}

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We cut to a split screen shot of two separate parts of backstage. Konnan is walking down one hallway in his gear, Piper is walking down another as the crowd goes wild.

Burt Busch, “When we return it’s our main event… Piper. Konnan. ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament Qualifier. NEXT!”

{B-}

*Commercial Break*

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When we return, a sweaty Doug Gilbert is backstage with a still soda wettened Elizabeth and our newest announcer, Carlos Cabrera standing by with a microphone.

Carlos Cabrera, “Doug Gilbert, congratulations on qualifying for the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Title tournament, but, what in the world was going on out there?”

Doug Gilbert, “I’ll TELL YOU what was going on! I just got done putting on a clinic with a GREAT Competitor in Austin Idol! I beat an all time great, One, Two Three! We in team Gilbert oughta be riding high right now! But we’re not! That little FLOOZY… That-that-that… TRAMP…”

Carlos, “Easy now…”

Doug Gilbert, “Easy nothin! Only thing easy is Lexi York! LEXI… You throw whatever crap on a woman-uh class… on MY woman… On Elizabeth, and then you stand there with your gang-uh morons lead by “Raven”… Who the Hell is Raven? Huh?! Can you tell me Carlos? Can you tell me the Hell is Raven?!”

Carlos, “Well…”

Doug Gilbert, “Well I’ll tell ya who the Hell Raven’s gonna be if him and his Girlfriend Experience wanta keep harassing Elizabeth and stickin’ their nose into our business! He’s gonna be a bird with clipped wings is who he’s gonna be! Raven, I’m only gonna tell you, Lexi, and your happy band of window lickers this ONE Time. Back off, or you’re not gonna like the end result!”

With that Doug turns away from the mic and says to Elizabeth, “Let’s go!” while pulling her by the hand. Elizabeth nods and follows as we head back to the ring.

Burt Busch, “Highly charged words from Doug Gilbert.”

{C -}

Match

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Konnan Vs Roddy Piper

Referee: Tommy Young

Road Agent: Rick Steamboat

{ In a superb match, Roddy Piper defeated Konnan in 12:13 by pinfall. B Rating}

Finish: Ref Bump. DOA Runs in.

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Funk and Simmons run in.

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Konnan goes for a somersault clothesline and gets a DDT on a chair. 1, 2, 3.

The chaos continues. As it does...

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...Harley Race emerges from behind the curtain and waves to the back. What is he waving for? We soon find out it’s…

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The Man They Call Vader.

Burt Busch, “IT’S THE MAN THEY CALL VADER!”

Vader dart powers down the aisle and climbs the steps to the ring. He steps through the ropes and as he does Terry Funk happens to turn around just in time to take a hard belly to belly suplex.

Burt Busch, “VADER! VADER just CRUSHED Terry Funk with that Belly to Belly!”

Vader pops up to Brian Lee patting him on the shoulder, giving him the thumbs up. Vader turns and gives Brian Lee a massive clothesline sending him up and over to the outside floor.

Burt Busch, “Prime Time Brian Lee just got sent out to the floor!”

Realizing Vader wasn’t picking sides, Cyrus and Konnan both dart out of opposite sides of the ring. Ron Simmons is getting up on the far end of the ring and Vader darts across and clotheslines him over the top to the floor as well. Snake gets up near by and Vader gives him and overhead belly to belly out of the ring.

Burt Busch, “VADER is hitting anything that MOVES!”

Vader gets up and turns around just in time to find that Piper is in his fighting stance with both fists clenched ready to go.

Burt Busch, “Piper and Vader! Piper and Vader! Piper is telling the big man to bring it, and Vader is snarling like a beast! My God, what a night this has been! Vader is here, and he and the Hot Rod might be fixin to get it on!”

By now Harley has made his way inside the ring. He’s between Vader and Piper trying desperately to get Vader to stay at bay as the copyright information is coming onto the screen.

Burt Busch, “Vader is on the war path!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “More accurately, he’s on the path to the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Title!”

Burt Busch, “That’s right! Are we seeing a vision of things to come in this ICWA World’s Heavyweight Title Tournament?! Next week Vader will have his qualifying match, but tonight these two men here may just get it on! They’re telling me we’ve gotta go… For Nick Bockwinkle, I’m Burt Busch and this has been ICWA Demented! What a night!”

The Cameras fade on Piper begging Vader to bring it and Harley with both hands on Vader’s chest trying desperately to keep him at bay.

{Segment rated B}

Show was an overall C+

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corporate_icon · June 19, 2020

ICWA Demented: Oct Wk 3, 1995 (Episode 003)

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As the previous program’s credits conclude, we fade into a well produced video giving us clips of what’s occurred previously on episodes of Demented. We conclude that video with scenes of Vader clearing the ring of Terry Funk, Ron Simmons, the DOA, and coming face to face with a wild and ready Roddy Piper, being kept at bay by his manager Harley Race.

From there we go into the opening video and ICWA Demented theme song.

As the video wraps up we take some big shots around the arena showcasing the ruckus crowd on hand, and making it seem like the crowd is a bit bigger than it really is. At ringside are the tandem of Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle to give us the run down.

Burt Busch, “Hello everybody, and WELCOME to ICWA Demented! Alongside the legendary Nick Bockwinkle, I’m Burt Busch and for the third week in a row, we are LIVE on FX!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “They haven’t thrown us off the air yet, I guess we must be doing something right.”

Burt Busch, “No doubt about it! And folks, tonight will be no deviation from the high impact, top tier action you’ve come to expect from us over the last couple of weeks! As a matter of fact, we’re taking it up a notch… Tonight we have got a HUGE main event on tap as the Disciples of Apocalypse will be in six man tag team action against… Are you ready for this Nick? Ron Simmons, Terry Funk, and the Hot Rod himself, Rowdy Roddy Piper!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “A huge clash indeed!”

Burt, “Plus, once again we have got THREE big ICWA World Heavyweight Title qualifying matches here tonight! Twenty six men remain in the hunt for the ICWA World’s heavyweight title, tonight that number will drop yet again as the self proclaimed agent to the stars, Brother Brucie, has vowed to bring a top competitor in tonight to challenge Iron Mike Jones in a qualifying match up… Additionally, we heard it from Paul Ellering last week… The Road Warrior Hawk will go one on one with Jake “The Snake” Roberts, and that one should be a Helluva bout!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Yes, I think it will be, Burt. Jake is a methodical, thinking man’s wrestler. Hawk tends to be more of a ragging bull of sorts. He swings first and asks questions later. It’ll be an interesting clash of styles to be sure.”

Before Burt can continue, an up beat 80s style rock instrumental hits.

[Opening Hype / Intro Received a C+ rating]

Burt Busch, “And this must mean our first of three tournament qualifiers is about to be under way!”

[Opening Match]

Opening Bout

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Ricky Morton Vs Vader (W/ Harley Race)

Referee: Dick Worhle

Road Agent: Les Thatcher

{Ricky Morton comes in fast and hot throwing dropkicks and flying axe handles, but he can’t knock the big man off his feet. With the big man rocking and reeling, Morton goes up and flips off the top looking for the moonsault, but instead is caught in a standing 69, and then crushed as Vader snaps forward and drives Morton to the mat back first, sandwiched between the mat and Vader. From there it’s all big throws and slams and forearms and fists from Vader with very little resistance from Vader. Finally Harley gives the order to “FINISH HIM VADDD-UH” in that gravely voice of his. Vader hits the Vader Bomb, 1, 2, 3. C+ Rating.}

Burt Busch, “My God, Vader has just demolished Ricky Morton!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Indeed he has. Vader has made it clear in no uncertain terms that he will be the king of the mountain here in the ICWA. Having now officially qualified for the ICWA World Heavyweight Title tournament, he very well may be on his way to claiming his throne.”

We fade on Vader snarling and growling as Harley shouts toward the camera in his gravely voice about the future world’s champion.

*Commercial Break*

When we return, we find ourselves taking fast, sharp shots on the street lit city streets of a major city; New York, Chicago, or LA Perhaps? We’re moving around so fast that lights and cars are mostly blurs. We dart down a dark ally and find our way to big beat up, graffitied door, which is muffling the sounds of heavy bass music. It just happens that as we arrive the door draws open with a threesome of gothic/punk looking young people laughing and stumbling out. We zip in through the entrance they’ve given us to see a darkened club scene on like anything in the mainstream. The lighting is dark and what lights there are, are mostly in shades of red and maroon. We zip around and notice that folks are hanging on each other. Men and women, women and women, men and men… We find our way to a back VIP table hidden away in the shadows, with just a touch of red light flashing. A goth/punk woman is sucking on a man’s wrist. The man has long curly blonde hair and he is ignoring the woman on his wrist, turned with his face in a woman’s neck on the other side. He slowly pulls up from her neck as she falls back seemingly in ecstasy, her head leaning so we can’t really see the area of her neck he had his mouth too. He slowly turns and we see his fangs, his mouth and teeth red. He smirks a sinister smirk as the words “Coming Soon to the ICWA” come to the bottom of the screen…

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and the scene fades back to Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle at ringside.

Burt Busch, “Well…….. I uh…….”

Nick Bockwinkle, “What, dear colleague, was that?”

Burt Busch, “I don’t know, but evidently whatever it was, it’s coming soon to the ICWA…”

{Vignette got a B-}

With that we head into our next bout…

Match Two

Tag Team

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Bill Dundee & Jimmy Valiant Vs The Miracle Violence Connection

Referee: Scrappy McGowan

Road Agent: Kevin Von Erich

Bill Dundee and Jimmy Valiant were brought in for the night to serve as fodder to the MVC. They were already in the ring after our vignette, and MVC made their entrances,

{In a decent match, Miracle Violence Connection defeated Bill Dundee and Jimmy Valiant in 6:36 when Steve Williams defeated Bill Dundee by pinfall with an Oklahoma Stampede.

Bill Dundee was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. D+ Rating}

As the MVC stand in the ring, celebrating and doing the title taunt, Burt Busch sends us to the back where…

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Larry Matysik is standing by with the tag team champion Steiner Brothers.

Larry Matysik, “Rick and Scott Steiner… The Miracle Violence Connection is on the hunt and it’s hard to deny that they’ve looked pretty impressive as of late, is it not?”

Scott scoffs, “Looked impressive doin’ what? Tossing around lil’ kids? Beating up senior citizens? Yeah, they’re impressive, but they’re not the tag team champions.”

Rick Steiner, “And they’re not gonna be! Gordy and Williams want our belts? Well we don’t book the matches, we just win ‘em. So whenever the ICWA decides those two big boys have paid their dues and earned their shot, we’ll be there, any time, any place!”

Larry Matysik, “As it stands, it sounds like next week you two will indeed be defending the ICWA Tag Team championships, albeit not against Bam Bam Gordy and Dr. Death Steve Williams, but rather against a tag team that Gary Hart is bringing with him to the ICWA a tribal region of South America. Rick and Scott, if you’ll take a look at the monitor, this is what Gary Hart had to say…”

Larry motions off screen where Scott and Rick focus their attention as the camera moves a foot or so to show a monitor set up on a stand. We switch from the Steiners backstage to…

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Gary Hart and the head hunters standing in what appears to be a tropical rain forest. The Hunters are in loin clothes and war paint, and Gary Hart is in his suit with the sleeves rolled up, wiping sweat from his brow.

Gary Hart, “PEOPLE! … People of the ICWA… If you do not already know, I am Gary Hart, and I am perhaps the finest wrestling manager there has ever been. There’s a reason for that. It’s not because I’ve managed the most champions -although I have managed many-. It’s not because I’ve managed the biggest names in the sport -although I have managed plenty-. And it’s NOT BECAUSE I am a brilliant strategist, who understands the importance of working with my clients to be students of the game -although I am and I do-. It is because I will go where others will not, and I will find the fighters and the warriors that other managers are afraid to touch. I’m not afraid to wrangle a killa or two, because folks, in a kill or be killed world, you’re either on the side gettin’ killed, orrr… you’re on the side with the killas!”

As Gary says “the side with the killas!” he he points behind him at the Head Hunter on either side with his thumbs.

Gary Hart, “I’ve been traveling the world, putting together a stable of monsters and killas, to bring back there to the ICWA and let run loose. I let one get away from me to Brother Brucie, but I was still able to keep the worst of the worst to myself. Next week I will finally return to the states, and with me I will bring my menagerie of savages to tear through the ICWA at every level. And I will start by leading these two Head Hunters STRAIGHT to the heads of the ICWA World Tag Team champions! Steiner Brothers! ……. Steiner Brothers…. The Head Hunters have demolished every team that has been put in front of them down here. They’ve torn them limb from limb and shown no mercy. Next week on Demented, they will be there to do the same to you, and they *will be* the ICWA World Tag Team Champions!”

The Head Hunters snarl as the TV goes black and we shift back to the Steiners looking at the monitor, shaking their heads.

Larry, “What do you think about that?”

Rick Steiner, “ Savages? Hey Scott… Gary Hart’s bringing us savages…”

Scott snickers, “They may be savages, but they ain’t more savage than us!”

With that the Steiners smash forearms like a high five and walk off as we start to fade.

Burt Busch, “Speaking of Savages, when we return we’ll find out just who Brother Brucie acquired from Gary Hart as the first of our three ICWA World Title Tournament Qualifiers takes place!”

{A freestyle segment called 'Angle with Matysik, Rick Steiner, Scott Steiner, Gary Hart, Headhunter A, Headhunter B' featuring Larry Matysik, Rick Steiner, Scott Steiner, Gary Hart, Headhunter A and Headhunter B garnered a C-}

*Commercial Break*

When we return we see a camera jarring about backstage as if its holder is jogging.

Burt Busch, “Folks, we apologize for the abrupt return here… We’ve been told that there’s been an incident backstage and we’re trying to get cameras there right now…”

As Burt says that we find ourselves backstage where Elizabeth is laid out on the floor. A small crowd of folks have already started to surround the scene and a paramedic is already down on a knee tending to the unconscious Liz.

Burt Busch, “My God, what has happened here?!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “It’s hard to tell… I will refrain from speculating until we know more.”

Burt Busch, “You don’t think…. You don’t think that that man we met last week… That Raven… You don’t think that he and his flock of followers had something to do with this do you? My God, what a…”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Again, I will refrain from speculating until we know more.”

Burt Busch, “Doug Gilbert’s not even here tonight. He had to tend to a ailing family member… If Raven and Lexi York…”

Nick Bockwinkle, “As far as we know, Elizabeth could have feinted, or had a health crisis of some sort.”

Burt Busch, “Well, I assure you folks that as soon as we have more information, we will let you know.”

{C Rating for Elizabeth segment}

Match

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Kamala (w/ Brother Brucie) Vs “Iron” Mike Jones

Referee: Mark Curtis

Road Agent: Bob Armstrong

{In a decent match, Kamala defeated "Iron" Mike Jones in 7:21 by pinfall with a Giant Splash. C-}

Brother Brucie, Agent to the Stars, presents his client he swiped from Gary Hart, the Ugandan Warrior Kamala. He obtains a decisive victory over Iron Mike Jones and officially qualifies for the ICWA World Title tournament.

As the commentators put over Kamala’s advancement to the ICWA World Title tournament, we fade from the ring to the parking lot where we can hear the unmuffled sounds of the motor cycles pulling in. On one is Brian Lee with Amy Lee riding on the back. On one is Snake by himself. And on the center Bike leading the pack is Cyrus with Woman on the back. The crowd boos as Burt Busch reminds us that later tonight the DOA will go head to head with Terry Funk, Ron Simmons and Roddy Piper.

{B- Segment}

*Commercial Break*

When the last commercial wraps up we fade not to the ring, but into clips from places like Extra and Inside Edition talking about MMA and the UFC. We see men just pummeling each other and hear different commentators / news personalities talking about the danger and the gruesomeness and the sheer violence and bloodshed. We see clips in particular of Ken Shamrock just going nuts in the cage. We see Dan The Beast Severn choking somebody out. We see Tank Abbott hammering somebody with those soup bones, and Oleg Taktarov driving someone into the mat… We see a couple of other guys exchanging shots with swollen eyes and bloody faces.

Finally we make our way back to ringside where Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle are seated.

Nick Bockwinkle, “What absolute barbarism.”

Burt Busch, “Ultimate fighting has grown a bit of a buzz as of late…. We here at the ICWA are dedicated to bringing you the absolute best competitors in the world, and that means scouting in all walks of life. I have it on good authority that the ICWA has acquired at least two of the very best in the underground fighting /ultimate fighting world, and there may be more yet to come.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Well, I have all the respect in the world for the tireless effort and training that goes into becoming a top tier competitor in any combat sport… However, I would recommend to anybody coming into the ICWA from that world, that they remember that at the end of the day while there may be room for all sorts of styles and techniques in our sport, this is still the sport of Professional Wrestling, not ultimate fighting or anything else. They will need to recognize that and adapt to this sport if they want their success to carry over.”

Burt Busch, “We shall soon see…”

{Ultimate Fight Segment: C Rating}

With that “Crawling King Snake” by the Doors hits the PA as we head into the entrances for the next bout

Match

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Jake Roberts Vs Hawk (w/ Paul Ellering)

Referee: Tim White

Road Agent: Rick Steamboat

{In an exceptional match, Road Warrior Hawk defeated Jake Roberts in 9:42 by pinfall with a Flying Lariat. B Rating}

Burt Busch, “And Road Warrior Hawk has just advanced to the ICWA World Title Tournament!”

As “Ironman” by Black Sabbath blasts over the PA and Hawk celebrates up on the ropes, we fade to commercial

*Commercial Break*

When we return a twangy instrumental hits the PA and out emerges…

http://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/JeffJarrett.jpg

…Jeff Jarrett. Jarrett gets some boos from folks who saw him slap away Terry Funk’s extended hand to him after their match last week, and Burt reminds folks of that moment and of the fact that despite that, Jarrett held his own put up a Hell of a fight against the seasoned veteran last week.

Once Jarrett gets in the ring, he swipes the microphone from the ring announcer as the music begins to fade.

Jeff Jarrett, “Last week, the ICWA witnessed a travesty! It was a… it was a… It was… what’s the horrible, rotten, rancid version of a miracle? Whatever that is, that’s exactly what it was last week when Terry Funk pinned my shoulders to the mat to advance to the ICWA World Title tournament! It was a disgusting, vile, DISGRACE!”

The crowd boos as Jarrett’s face scrunches with disgust and anger.

Jeff Jarrett, “And let me tell *you* something Terry Funk… I know you’re back there with your new best friend Ron Simmons and Roddy Piper getting ready for your bout with the D.O.A, and I know you’re probably too busy to bother listening to little ol’ me out here, but I hope that Cyrus wraps a chain around your neck and drags your wrinkly ass six feet behind his Harley all the way back down to Texas! That’s what I think about *you* Terry Funk!”

The crowd boos louder as Burt Busch exclaims, “Oh, come on now…”

Jeff Jarrett, “Terry Funk beating me was the biggest fluke in the history of sports, and I’ll prove it! I didn’t bring my gear this week, but NEXT week I’ll face ANYBODY one on one, and I won’t just BEAT ‘EM… Oh No, I’ll flat out humiliate ‘em!”

Burt Busch, “Jarrett’s issuing an open challenge?”

Jeff Jarrett, “That’s right! All you chumps back there or anywhere else, you come on down to this ring next week and I’ll take ya to class! You people just wait and see! Funk was a fluke! Next week I’ll beat anybody, and I’ll show the world that it should be me on the path to the ICWA World Heavyweight Title, not him! I’m greatest of all time! It’s about time I let the world know!”

And with that Jarrett tosses the mic out to the ring announcer on the floor as the music hits and he climbs the ropes to a chorus of boos.

Burt Busch, “Evidently Jeff Jarrett is going to take on all comers next week here on FX. I have to admit, I’m intrigued to see who ends up answering that call. Jeff Jarrett may end up regretting letting his pride get the best of him here tonight.”

{Jarrett promo got a B Rating}

With that we show the match graphic advertising the Six Man Main Event to the crowd’s delight as Burt Busch let’s us know that said main event is coming up… NEXT

*Commercial break*

When we return we find ourselves once again centered on Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle at ringside.

Burt Busch, “Welcome back to ICWA Demented… If you’re just joining us, earlier tonight Elizabeth was found unconscious backstage. We have finally received word that she has been checked into a near by medical facility, and that she has regained consciousness. Reports are that she’s still a bit incoherent and groggy, but she is conscious.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “That’s really the important thing.”

Burt Busch, “No word yet on whether or not she’s identified Raven or any of his lackies… his roadies… his “flock” if you will as having been responsible…”

Nick cuts in, “Again, that’s pure speculation. She could have just as easily feinted from exhaustion or over heating.”

Burt Busch, “It’s October, and we’re in New Jersey Nick.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “I’m just saying that we don’t have enough facts to be pointing fingers.”

Before Burt can comment further, the DOA theme music hits drawing boos. As the DOA make their entrance Burt Busch lets us know that next week Cyrus will have his ICWA qualifying match against none other than the incomparable Wahoo McDaniels. He’ll then give a quick gloss over of Wahoo’s accolades both in Football and wrestling.

When Ron Simmons makes his entrance, Burt Busch will let us know that Ron Simmons will also have his qualifying bout next week as he takes on another international superstar in the way of Gentleman Chris Adams.

Main Event

Six Man Tag

http://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/BrianAdamsDOA.jpghttp://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/BrianLee4.jpghttp://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/BryanClarke1.jpghttp://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/Woman952.jpghttp://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/AmyLee.jpghttp://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/RonSimmons94.jpghttp://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/TerryFunk95.jpghttp://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/RoddyPiper.jpg

DOA Vs Terry Funk, Ron Simmons & Roddy Piper

Referee: Tommy Young

Road Agent: Dory Funk Jr

{TEW Comments on the Match: In a superb match, Disciples of Apocalypse (Cyrus., Brian Lee and Snake) drew with Terry Funk, Ron Simmons and Roddy Piper in 12:54 when the match descended into chaos after Konnan, Vader and Wahoo McDaniel all became involved. In terms of in-ring work, Roddy Piper was head and shoulders above everyone else. Match Rating: B -}

This match ends up breaking down into a pier six brawl, as the referee loses control and there ends up being no contest. As everybody is brawling all over, Konnan comes in to jump Piper with Cyrus. Wahoo McDaniel shows up unexpected and darts down to even things up, and get some early shots in on Cyrus before their tournament match up next week.

http://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/Konnan.jpg

http://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/WahooMcDaniel.jpg

Burt Busch, “My God, fists are flying everywhere! This thing has gone completely off the rails! I have no idea how we’re gonna regain control! Somebody better call the swat team!”

As all of this is going on we see Vader dart down the aisle.

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Burt Busch, “Oh man, now VADER! I’m being told we have to go… It’s sheer pandemonium! What is gonna happen next week?! Tag titles on the line, qualifying matches, open challenge… I just don’t know!”

As Vader hits the ring we go off the air, bodies and fists abounding everywhere.

{C+ Show}

http://u.cubeupload.com/Corporate_Icon/Demented.jpg

Historian · June 19, 2020

Vader to win all the belts.

IronmanCampbell · June 19, 2020

Really enjoying this so far. The very first 'fantasy booking' I ever did (before TEW, on paper, when I was about 13) was starting from the beginning of 1998 as a merged ECW and USWA promotion, so a rival 3rd national brand to WWF and WCW during the mid to late 90's appeals massively. Looking forward to what comes next.

corporate_icon · June 21, 2020

Really enjoying this so far. The very first 'fantasy booking' I ever did (before TEW, on paper, when I was about 13) was starting from the beginning of 1998 as a merged ECW and USWA promotion, so a rival 3rd national brand to WWF and WCW during the mid to late 90's appeals massively. Looking forward to what comes next.

Thanks man, I appreciate it!

corporate_icon · June 24, 2020

ICWA Demented: Oct Wk 4, 1995 (Episode 004)

<div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="gOkV4sz.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/gOkV4sz.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/gOkV4sz.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div>

As the clock strikes 9pm EST, for the first time ever on FX and FX Canada the music begins to play. A high energy heavy hitting rock tune that from this point on would simply be known as “The Demented Theme” as people across TV land see a video collage pulsing green lights and various imagery of in ring action featuring the likes of Vader, Roddy Piper, The Steiners, Lexi York, Elizabeth, and others.

Finally we find our way into the venue as the crowd hoots and hollers with their signs. The Demented theme fades away, and as it does we’re immediately hit with an instrumental version of “Highway to Hell”.

Burt Busch, “Welcome everybody to ICWA Demented! Burt Busch here alongside the incomparable Nick Bockwinkle, and we’re gonna jump right into things this week!”

Cyrus emerges from the back in his DOA Leather and black sunglasses. With him is Woman in black leather pants, a black T and her own DOA Leather jacket and black sunglasses. The crowd boos loudly as they begin down the aisle. He will be followed by an entrance from Wahoo McDaniel, who Burt will put over as legend of both Grid Iron and Square Circle alike. During the entrances, Burt Busch also lets us know that they’ll have a pre-recorded one on one interview with Doug Gilbert and Elizabeth regarding what happened last week on Demented to Elizabeth, PLUS tonight’s Main Event is Terry Funk going one on one with Vader!

Opening Bout

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

<img alt="fUoKilF.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/fUoKilF.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/fUoKilF.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="BZCsktx.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/BZCsktx.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/BZCsktx.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="lE9tMkY.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/lE9tMkY.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/lE9tMkY.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Cyrus (w/Woman) Vs Wahoo McDaniel

Referee: Dick Worhle

Road Agent: Les Thatcher

{ In a decent match, Cyrus. defeated Wahoo McDaniel in 7:45 by pinfall with a Choke Slam. C- Match Rating}

As we fade from the ring, before we go to commercial, we find ourselves in an uptown swanky loft where a social gathering appears to be taking place. We see various young adults sprinkled about. Some look like they’re fresh from Wall St., but others look like they’re fresh from Hot Topic with their blue hair or purple hair and piercings and such. In society it’d seem like a strange hodgepodge, but here they all seem to mix and intermingle seamlessly. The lighting is dim, and we can hear a dark techno beat in the background. We notice that people are hanging on each other. Off on a love seat in a darkened area of the loft, we see the same blonde man from last week…

<img alt="FDg222w.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/FDg222w.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/FDg222w.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

On one side a gothic looking woman has her face into his neck. On the other side, a more upscale woman is presenting her neck to our focal character. He brushes a finger across her neck that has something metallic on it. We see a small cut begin to produce just a little bit of blood. He smirks, and his head swoops in as our screen goes black aside from a gothic looking, blood red logo using the letters D.C.

“COMING SOON”

{Vignette gets a C Rating}

*Commercial Break*

When we return we get the “Reese’s Rewind” showing us Jeff Jarrett’s promo from last week making an open challenge for tonight.

Jeff Jarrett’s theme hits the PA and he makes his way down to the ring where he grabs a microphone.

Jeff Jarrett, “Alright boys, I’ve given all of you a week to nut up and face me! So whose it gonna be?! Terry Funk, you want it again?! How about Silver Wings or the Navajo Kid?! It’s time for somebody to have their ass made an example of!”

{Jarrett promo gets a B-}

An Instrumental adaptation of “For Whom The Bell Tolls,” by Metallica blasts over the PA as the crowd buzzes in anticipation.

Burt Busch, “Who is this now?”

The curtain flies to the side and out emerges…

<img alt="Dgh8qom.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Dgh8qom.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Dgh8qom.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Burt Busch, “Why that’s… That’s… SHAMROCK! KEN SHAMROCK! The Ultimate Fight champion is answering Jeff Jarrett’s open challenge!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “We saw the clips and heard the announcement last week that athletes from this Ultimate Fight sport would begin making their way into the ICWA. I’m not sure how I feel about that, but I do know this… While Ken Shamrock is indeed a dangerous man…”

Burt interjects, “He may in fact be the world’s *most* dangerous man!”

Nick continues, “Perhaps… Regardless, if he can’t transition those skills from the octagon to the ring, he may remain dangerous but he won’t be successful. Professional Wrestling is an entirely different animal than this Super Fight stuff. We have rules and regulations. You can’t choke a man out here like he did to become the superfight champion. That’s illegal. He would have been disqualified.”

Burt Busch, “Well, I reckon we’re fixin’ to find out just how well Ken Shamrock can adapt, and I have to wonder if Jeff Jarrett isn’t second guessing his decision to lay down the open challenge here.”

Match

Open Challenge

<img alt="J3K702l.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/J3K702l.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/J3K702l.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="Dgh8qom.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Dgh8qom.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Dgh8qom.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Jeff Jarrett Vs Ken Shamrock

Referee: Scrappy McGowan

Road Agent: Kevin Von Erich

{ In a decent match, Ken Shamrock defeated Jeff Jarrett in 10:17 by submission with an Ankle Lock. C+ Match Rating}

Burt Busch, “What a hold! Ken Shamrock has just made Jeff Jarrett tap out to that Ankle Lock submission hold, and how can ya blame him?”

Nick Bockwinkle, “A very dangerous hold indeed. Hopefully Jarrett submitted before any serious damage could be done.”

Burt Busch, “As trainer Frank Matheson comes down here to check on Jarrett, we’re going to pay some bills, but when we come back… The second of two ICWA World Title Tournament Qualifiers will take place as Ron Simmons goes one on one with the Gentleman, Chris Adams! Don’t go away!”

*Commercial Break*

When we return, Larry Matysik is backstage with Ken Shamrock, fresh off his victory over Jeff Jarrett.

<img alt="PjdqpTl.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/PjdqpTl.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/PjdqpTl.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="Dgh8qom.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Dgh8qom.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Dgh8qom.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Larry Matysik, “Ken Shamrock, a victorious debut for you here on ICWA Demented LIVE On FX, and Ken… What’s your plan now that you’ve arrived in the ICWA?”

Ken Shamrock, “You just saw it, Matysik… My plan is to run through anybody and everybody that the ICWA has to offer until I become the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Champion! Jeff Jarrett? Jeff Jarrett came out on TV last week and issued a challenge… An OPEN Challenge. Well I’m ALWAYS gonna be up to answering any challenges! I won the Superfight title, and now I’m gunning for the ICWA Title! I may not have signed on early enough to get into the Tournament, but…”

Ken stops for a moment as both he and Larry seem to react to something we can’t see.

“So you’re one of those big bad ultimate fighters huh?”

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Mid-sentence we see Konnan swagger into the scene in front of Shamrock.

Ken nods, “Yeah…”

Konnan, “Yo, yo, yo, let me speak on this… You think you get to just walk in here and start talking about titles? Well yo, check it, I don’t think you’re anywhere near as big and as bad as you like to think you are homie.”

Ken Shamrock, “Let’s see what you think after you’ve been in the ring with me, “homie!”

Konnan snickers, “Yeah, alright man, whatever.”

Konnan waves dismissively and walks past Shamrock as Shamrock shakes his head and says, “Guys like that talk the talk, but…”

Before Shamrock can finish that thought he finds himself blasted across the back with a foreign object that moves to fast out of the scene for us to tell what it is. Shamrock drops to the ground as Konnan begins putting the boots to him.

Larry Matysik, “Hey now! We need security back here! SECURITY!”

Konnan finishes putting the boots to Shamrock, and spits down toward Shamrock before turning to Matysik and saying, “Who’s bad now? Huh? Who’s bad now?!”

Referees and staff rush into the scene as Konnan puts his hands up as if to surrender as he slowly walks off the scene and we head back to the ring.

Burt Busch, “How about that?! Konnan just attacking the World’s Most Dangerous Man, Ken Shamrock! Can you believe that?!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “I imagine that I’m not the only one here in the ICWA who is a little put off by the idea of men like Ken Shamrock coming over from this underground fighting or what have you as if they’re going to run roughshod over career professional wrestlers in a professional wrestling ring. I suspect that men such as Konnan might have taken a bit of exception to the brazen way in which a Ken Shamrock has entered the ICWA.”

Burt Busch, “Well Nick, if Konnan feels that way, he’s going to get the opportunity to do something about it. I have just been told that LIVE right here on FX next week we will see Ken Shamrock go one on one with Konnan!”

{Shamrock/Konnan Segment gets a D+}

From that match announcement we head into the entrances for the next match up.

Match Three

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

<img alt="1hCMAmd.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/1hCMAmd.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/1hCMAmd.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="Rz24UPh.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Rz24UPh.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Rz24UPh.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

“Gentleman” Chris Adams Vs Ron Simmons

Referee: Mark Curtis

Road Agent: Bob Armstrong

{ In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Ron Simmons defeated Chris Adams in 9:52 by pinfall with a Dominator. C+ Match Rating}

We fade backstage where Terry Funk is watching the monitor, nodding approvingly. Beside him stands Carlos Cabrera with the microphone.

<img alt="0Uz99Ox.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/0Uz99Ox.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/0Uz99Ox.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="sLoWYbm.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/sLoWYbm.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/sLoWYbm.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Carlos, “Ron Simmons, an ally of yours as of late, securing his place in the ICWA World Title Tournament and Terry Funk, you two just might meet somewhere along the line in this tournament…”

Terry nods, “We just may. And if that happens, all I can say is I know Ron’ll give it his all, and I’m sure gonna give it mine, and hey, may the best man win. But, before I can worry about Ron Simmons or anybody else in the tournament, I’ve got to give my undivided attention to the man they call Vader.”

Carlos, “Absolutely… Terry Funk, you go head to head with the monster himself, and rumor has it that you asked for this match?!”

Terry Funk, “Yeah, I asked for it Carlos… And I’m sure there’s more than a few folks out there who think that maybe I’ve finally lost my mind, pickin’ a fight with Vader. Well, maybe I have. But the way I see it, I didn’t pick this fight. For two weeks in a row Vader has come out and put his hands on me, suplexing me and attacking me… Well, something like that happens once and maybe I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Something like that happens twice? Well, now I’m starting to think that ol’ Vader thinks I’m a push over. Lets go toss ol’ Terry around, he’s not gonna do anything. That’s the attitude of a bully, Carlos. You ever deal with any bullies, Carlos?”

Carlos nods, “Of course…”

Terry, “Yeah, of course. Well there’s only two ways to deal with a bully… You can either live the life of a victim and hope the bully eventually gets bored with ya, or you can stand up, punch that big bastard in the nose, and prepare for whatever comes from that. Now, there’s a lot of folks who’ve called me a lot of things over the years, and more have been true than not. But one thing nobody’s ever called me is a victim. I’ve never been a victim, and I’m fixin’ to start bein’ one today. So VADER… You’re big, you’re bad, you’re nasty, but I’m no victim and tonight I’m gonna punch you in the nose… And then I’m gonna punch ya again, and again, and again, AND AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGAIN…”

Terry Funk starts walking off camera pounding his fist against his palm as he continues to yell, the words “And Again And Again” trailing as he sounds like he’s getting further and further away.

{C Rating for Funk Promo}

*Commercial Break*

When we return we show a replay of last week’s scene where Elizabeth was found backstage on the floor. From there we head to ringside where Burt Busch let’s us know that this past week Burt went to the home of Doug Gilbert to conduct a pre-recorded interview with Doug and Elizabeth. He warns us that it might be a bit intense, and the site of Elizabeth in her current state could be jarring for some viewers.

<img alt="t3zOHIg.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/t3zOHIg.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/t3zOHIg.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="kqAVAIN.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/kqAVAIN.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/kqAVAIN.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="tdcGly5.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/tdcGly5.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/tdcGly5.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

With that we find ourselves in a living room setting. Sitting on a couch is Elizabeth in a neckbrace, and her whole jaw line appears to be black blue. Next to her is Doug Gilbert with a look of anger on his face. In a chair across from them is Burt Busch in different sports coat and shirt combination than he’s wearing tonight.

Burt Busch, “Doug Gilbert, I want to start off by saying thank you for inviting us into your home today. I appreciate you having us, and I appreciate your hospitality.”

Doug nods, but doesn’t speak.

Burt Busch, “Elizabeth, I appreciate you being here as well. I know you’re in a lot of pain, and it takes a lot of courage to sit down for something like this in your current state.”

Elizabeth nods and winces.

Burt Busch, “Elizabeth, I’ll start with the question on everybody’s mind… What happened Tuesday Night in New Jersey?”

Elizabeth starts to respond by winces in pain as she goes to speak.

Doug puts a hand on her knee and looks to Burt, “Burt, it brings a great deal of pain to Elizabeth to speak with her jaw right now. We’ve all asked her what happened Tuesday night, she says she’s not sure. She turned a corner and before she knew what happened she was waking up in an ambulance.”

Elizabeth nods.

Burt Busch, “Now Doug, you weren’t at Demented on Tuesday. Some folks have had some disparaging remarks regarding that fact, but I know that you had a valid reason for not being there on Tuesday. Would you care to share that with folks?”

Doug Gilbert, “Well it’s real simple Burt, I wasn’t at Demented because my mother took gravely ill. I found out on Monday, while I was at the airport to board the plane for New Jersey. If my beeper would have gone off fifteen minutes later, I’d have actually been on the plane. I had Elizabeth go on ahead, and then I booked a flight down to Florida to be with my mother. On Tuesday night it was stop and go. There were times when we genuinely believed we were experiencing mama’s last moments on this earth. Now thank the good Lord she pulled through and is getting increasingly better with each passing day, but on Tuesday night I was holding mama’s hand praying to God that he’d leave her here just a little bit longer. That’s why I wasn’t at Demented.”

Burt Busch, “And Doug, I’m so glad to hear that your mama’s on the upswing now.”

Doug nods, “I appreciate that Burt, and mama appreciated the flowers as well.”

Burt nods, “The least I could do…. Now, Elizabeth went ahead without you to Demented…”

Doug nods and says, “Yeah, I thought it was important that one of us make it to the show. I never would have sent her had I known that the ICWA backstage environment was one where a defenseless woman who isn’t a wrestler, isn’t a trained athlete of any kind, would have to worry about her safety.”

Burt Busch, “So Doug, I’m going to go ahead now and address the elephant in the room… The thought on everybody’s mind… I know you can’t know for sure… We’re trying to get the security footage from the arena that night, but the venue’s legal team hasn’t authorized them to release it yet…. Doug, do you think that Raven and Lexi York are responsible for Elizabeth’s condition?”

Doug, “Do I think that Raven and Lexi York are responsible for Elizabeth’s condition? Man, does a bear crap in the woods? Hell yes I think Raven and Lexi York and that band of idiots had something to do with it. And let me tell you something Burt, I’m coming to Demented next week and you bet your Show Me State ass that I’m gonna come face to face with Raven if he’s there, and he and I are gonna get down to business.”

Burt Busch, “Don’t misread me here, my suspicions are just the same as yours, but, just to play devil’s advocate… What if it wasn’t Raven?

Doug Gilbert, “Well then, I guess on Wednesday my fist will owe his face an apology. But we both know full damn well it was Raven, and I’m done with it.”

Burt Busch, “Doug, do you have any idea how things with Raven have escalated to this level?”

Doug Gilbert, “Any idea how they escalated? Hell, I don’t even have any idea how they started. I’m in Puerto Rico finishing up my last commitments elsewhere during the inaugural episode of Demented -yet another time I sent Elizabeth in my sted- and Lexi York is bitchin’ that I’m in the ICWA Tournament and her “man” isn’t. Fast forward a week later and her “man” and their misfit band of fools are at ringside messing with Liz and I during my tournament match. This has been their beef since day one. And I’ve put up with it. I’ve tolerated it. Well NO MORE Burt! They crossed the G-- --MN LINE BURT! DO YOU SEE HER FACE?! DO YOU?!”

Burt puts up a hand and says, “I see it Doug… Just calm down now…”

Doug Gilbert, “No, I’m not gonna “calm down”! I’m done being calm. Next week I’m coming to Demented for one purpose and one purpose only… to kick Raven’s ass. And if he has any kind of balls, he’ll be there to answer for what he’s done. I’m done with this, and I’m done with Raven. It’s time for Raven to get his wings clipped.”

A concerned Elizabeth puts her hand on Doug’s back gently as Doug’s nostrils flair. We fade to commercial.

{Bush/Gilbert/Elizabeth Sitdown interview gets a C+ Rating}

*Commercial Break*

With that we return and head into the entrances for the next contest.

Match

ICWA World Tag Team Titles

<img alt="UR0pK2G.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/UR0pK2G.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/UR0pK2G.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="4B38G0F.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/4B38G0F.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/4B38G0F.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="Of5ftkC.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Of5ftkC.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Of5ftkC.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="MIkOpm0.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/MIkOpm0.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/MIkOpm0.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="PLulimF.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/PLulimF.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/PLulimF.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

The Head Hunters (W/ Gary Hart) Vs The Steiner Brothers

Referee: Tim White

Road Agent: Rick Steamboat

{ In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, The Steiner Brothers defeated The Headhunters in 7:45 when Rick Steiner defeated Headhunter A by pinfall with a Steinerizer. The Steiner Brothers make defence number 1 of their ICWA Tag Team Championship titles. C Match Rating}

We fade from the Steiners celebrating their tag team title victory to the back where…

<img alt="0Uz99Ox.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/0Uz99Ox.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/0Uz99Ox.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="4NltYHR.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/4NltYHR.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/4NltYHR.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="Nk0UZWY.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Nk0UZWY.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Nk0UZWY.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

…Carlos Cabrera is standing by with Harley Race and Vader.

Carlos Cabrera, “Gentlemen… I spoke with Terry Funk earlier tonight…. He issued the challenge for tonight’s main event match up. Harley, is the big man ready for Terry Funk?”

Harley, “Is the big man ready for Terry Funk? That is a question posed by a foolish man. Are you a foolish man Carlos?”

Carlos, “Well I…”

Harley cuts him off, “Let me be exact in my words right now. Vader is absolutely ready. He is as ready as he has ever been. And tonight Terry Funk… Terry Funk is an exceptional professional wrestler. Terry Funk is one of the finest world champions in the history of our sport, and I say that with all sincerity. But Vader is the single most destructive force ever to step between the ropes. I say that will due respect to the many bruisers and brawlers that I’ve seen and even tussled with over the years. But… And hear what I tell ya Carlos, because I say it with all sincerity… Vader is the baddest of the bad, and tonight as good as Terry Funk is, he can not and he will not measure up to Vader. Vader is going to be the first ICWA World’s Heavyweight Champion, and any who would try to obscure his path will be crushed at his feet.”

With that, Harley gives Vader a look, Vader snarls, and the two head off camera as Burt Says, “Stay with us… When we come back it’s finally time… Funk. Vader. NEXT!”

{Segment got a C+ Rating}

*Commercial Break*

Main Event

One on One

<img alt="sLoWYbm.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/sLoWYbm.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/sLoWYbm.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="Nk0UZWY.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Nk0UZWY.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Nk0UZWY.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="4NltYHR.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/4NltYHR.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/4NltYHR.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Terry Funk Vs Vader

Referee: Tommy Young

Road Agent: Dory Funk Jr

Vader and Funk have a fight. Funk is on defense more than offense, but he gets his shots in and has the big man reeling a time or two. However, in the end Vader beats him clean with a Powerbomb.

{Match grade B}

Burt Busch, “You have to give Funk credit… He stayed toe to toe with Vader, but in the end the big man… Wait a minute… What’s he doing?”

Vader drags Terry over toward the corner by his ankle and wrist.

Burt Busch, “Wait a minute… this match is over…”

The bell is ringing in the background as referee Tommy Young is yelling at Vader. Vader pie faces Young so hard he falls through the ropes.

Burt Busch, “OH COME ON! HE JUST ASSAULTED THE REFEREE!”

Vader climbs up onto the middle ropes and begins bouncing up and down…

Burt Busch, “No, don’t do this… Funk is still out from the power bomb….”

Vader tosses his legs back and splashes atop of Funk.

Burt Busch, “UGH! VADER BOMB! VADER BOMB ON THE DEFENSELESS TERRY FUNK!”

Vader gets up and snarls… He begins to climb again.

Burt Busch, “OH NOT AGAIN?! COME ON!”

The booing crowd starts to shift to cheers as…

<img alt="G6jn6wL.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/G6jn6wL.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/G6jn6wL.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="Rz24UPh.jpg" data-src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Rz24UPh.jpg" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Rz24UPh.jpg"</a> src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Piper and Simmons slide into the ring as Harley gets Vader’s attention and calls him out of the ring. Vader exits at Harley’s order, but he’s snarling and looking ready to get back in there.

Busch, “PIPER AND SIMMONS! PIPER AND SIMMONS! Thank GOD Piper and Simmons have chased Vader outta the ring!”

Simmons drops to a knee by Terry to check on him as Piper puts the bad mouth on Vader, begging him to get back in the ring. Vader starts to climb up but Harley grabs him and shakes his head, keeping Vader moving around the ring toward the aisle.

Burt Busch, “I think Vader wants to go ahead and get back there, but Harley’s keeping him away from Piper.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Harley Race is a master tactician. He’s not going to let Vader get goaded into fighting on Piper’s terms. He’ll pick his spot.”

We see trainer Frank Matheson for the second time tonight slide into the ring, making sure to keep his distance from Vader before he does so. He heads over to check on Funk across the ring as Vader is having to be pushed back by Race on the aisle way floor, and Piper’s calling him back in.

Burt Busch, “What a night it has been! Folks, next week we’re right back at it! More ICWA Tournament qualifiers, plus Doug Gilbert has vowed to confront Raven, Ken Shamrock is gonna go one on one with Konnan, plus Funk, Vader, Piper, Simmons… They’ll all be in the house LIVE On FX! For Nick Bockwinkle, I’m Burt Busch… Oh, what a night!”

{Closing angle got a B Rating – Overall show was a B rating}

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corporate_icon · June 25, 2020

Backstage At / The Aftermath of Demented: Episode 004

A Change In The Landscape

Demented Episode 004: Behind The Scenes Part 1

Written from the perspective of Tim White

Tuesday Night. It’s my favorite night of the week. Nothing gets the blood pumping like going to air with another episode of ICWA Demented. Every episode seems to be received better than the last and garners a bigger audience than the last. We have got a very solid card set up for tonight. Steiners and Headhunters for the tag straps, Cyrus and Wahoo in Wahoo’s first major TV match in a while. He worked a tag match last week after Demented went off the air with Cactus Jack against Konnan and Vader. You could tell he was having trouble keeping up with those three guys, but f*** man, it’s Wahoo. Bryan will work slow with him tonight, they should have a real solid brawl, and give the show a very decent start. Oh, hold that thought, there’s somebody knocking at my door. I shall return.

A Change In The Landscape

Demented Episode 004: Behind The Scenes Part 2

Written from the perspective of Jeff Jarrett

It was around 2pm when I got to the arena. We had a few fans waiting outside, looking to get a picture or word. I guess that’s a good sign. I’ve been thinking about tonight. I felt pretty good about that open challenge promo they had me do last week. I’m not sure where that’s going, but my hope is it’s gonna loop me into a more long term feud with Terry Funk. I know Terry and I can have some great matches. Hell, we had a great match on my debut. I’d of liked to of debuted with a win to get over strong, but I know I’ve gotta earn my stripes here. I have no illusions about my success in Memphis getting me on the fast track here. I just hope that this open challenge deal gets me some momentum.

Oh hey, there’s Kevin [Von Erich], I wonder if he’s agenting me tonight…

Kevin, “Hey Jeff…”

I shake Kevin’s hand, my bag still slung over my shoulder as I nod, “Hey Kevin, how ya been man?”

Kevin nods back, “Good. We just got out of the first production meeting for the day. I’m agenting your match tonight.”

I noded, “Good deal brother. So who am I workin’?”

Kevin, “Ken Shamrock.”

“Ken Shamrock… I’m not familiar.”

Kevin replied, “He’s one of the shoot fight guys we’re bringing in.”

“Fair enough. Whose going over?”

Kevin, “He is.”

“Oh. DQ? Something involving Terry maybe?”

Kevin, “No. We need ya to put him over clean with his finish.”

“Oh. What’s his finish?”

Kevin, “Ankle lock submission hold.”

“How’s he apply it? Can I take it on my back? Get pinned?”

Kevin, “Nah Jeff, we’re gonna need you to put him over by submission. We really want to feature this guy, and really get over this ultimate fighter / shoot fighter deal. Let people know out of the gate that he’s a dangerous man.”

“I see. So the pay off to my open challenge last week is I’m gonna get beat clean in the middle by submission to a guy fifteen people have heard of?”

Kevin, “Well we had that vignette last week hyping the shoot fighters coming in, and there’s been this buzz on this TV shows like Inside Edition and what not…”

“So where’s this leave me Kevin?”

Kevin, “You’ll be fine, Jeff. They’re givin’ ya ten minutes. It ain’t gotta be a squash or nothin’. Get your shit in man. Just make sure ya sell hard on the comeback, and get him over with that finish. Hey listen, I’ve gotta wiz, but I’ll catch up with you and Kenny a little later on and we’ll talk some more about it.”

Kevin patted me on my shoulder and walked off. Meanwhile, I was furious. They want me to go out and carry some greenhorn shootfighter turned pro wrestler for ten minutes so I can submit to his finish and look like an asshole yet again? To Hell with that. I’m gonna go drop this bag somewhere, and then I’m going to find Tim White and let him know just what I think about this horseshit.

A Change In The Landscape

Demented Episode 004: Behind The Scenes Part 3

Written from the perspective of Tim White

And I’m back. That was Jeff Jarrett at the door. I knew sooner or later somebody would have a problem with a booking decision I made, but I didn’t think it’d be this soon and I didn’t think it’d be a guy like Jarrett. I mean I think Jarrett’s a Hell of a worker. Bruce and I both do. That’s why we shelled out money that, frankly, would usually be reserved for somebody with a little more name value in an effort to keep him from signing with Vince. I understand they were gonna bring him in to be a country singer. I’m not sure how they were gonna do that, Jeff’s not much of a singer from what I’ve heard. But I digress. He’s hot about putting over Ken Shamrock, one of the shoot fighters I’m bringing in… Actually I really think he’s more hot about doing it clean by submission. I hope Jeff can get his attitude under control. I wouldn’t have Jeff out there doing this if I didn’t think he could do it and walk away unscathed. It’s only his second TV match. I know it puts him zero and two, but, he’s a second generation guy. If anybody ought to realize how little that really means, it ought to be Jeff. I guess I’ll have Terry talk to him. He seems to look up to Terry a bit.

Well, I suppose I’ll go ahead and continue getting ready for the show. I’ll check in throughout the show.

A Change In The Landscape

Demented Episode 004: Behind The Scenes Part 4

Written from the perspective of Tim White

I guess it had to happen sooner or later… Our first injury. I’m not even sure what happened. Bryan gave Wahoo the chokeslam finish, and Wahoo just couldn’t get back up. We were going to stretcher him out but he wouldn’t let us. He made us roll him to the floor and prop a body under each arm to get him to the back, but that’s that. If he can make it to his car it’s going to be a miracle. He won’t let us ambulance him out so I’ve got Layfield driving him to the hospital. He didn’t want to go to the hospital either, but I told him he wasn’t working again without seeing a doctor. So we’ll see how it goes. I hope it’s not bad. Hopefully that’s both our first injury, and our last. At least for awhile anyway. I know that injuries are gonna happen sooner or later, but my hope is it’ll be much, much later before the next one.

A Change In The Landscape

Demented Episode 004: Behind The Scenes Part 5

Written from the perspective of Tim White

Well shit… Two injuries in the same night. Vader man… I love Leon, but Jesus Chris. He hit Terry so hard across the jaw bone, you could tell he was hurt. To Terry’s credit he just reared back and blasted Leon in the eye so hard I thought he was gonna drop. It’s a miracle Leon’s eye isn’t swollen shut. That mask must have caught just enough of it that Leon’s face looks fin… well, as good as it ever did anyway. Man I hope Terry’s okay. I hope Wahoo’s okay too, but if Wahoo needs to sit out for a while there’s no worries. If Terry ends up on the shelf…. Man… That’d be a huge blow.

A Change In The Landscape

Demented Episode 004: The Aftermath

Written from the perspective of Tim White

It’s Thursday now and man… Just thinking about Demented… We got the numbers back and it was the highest rated show we’ve had. We almost drew a 9 TV rating, and from what I hear, the feed back from the sheets is that it’s the best Demented we’ve had so far. I’m not a big sheet guy, and Bruce can’t stand the sheets, but even without that, I really felt like we were on Tuesday. Although between Jarrett getting his panties in a bunch, and then Wahoo and Terry both getting hurt, I have to admit that I kind of thought somebody might have put the murk on us.

Speaking of; Wahoo is all jacked up. Doctors are saying three months of recovery at a minimum for his back issue. I don’t know exactly what happened. He didn’t even get much elevation for Bryan’s chokeslam, but I guess you never know which bump is going to be the one that puts you on the shelf. I think Wahoo’s workin’ days may be behind him. Maybe I’ll try him out as an agent when he gets back… Or maybe I’ll have him train guys at the developmental. Oh yeah, We might be getting a developmental territory. More on that some other time.

Terry Funk on the other hand says he’s ready to work tonight. I’m obviously not going to have him work tonight. He’s got a fractured cheek bone, but he wants to work through it. We’ve got a lot of big matches and big programs in mind for Terry, so I’m not going to risk him getting hurt on a house show, or even in a throw away match on Demented. We’ll keep out of matches while that heals, and hopefully he’ll be back at a hundred percent by the next tournament match he’s in. Prior to that I can get by without putting him in matches.

I also got Jarrett to calm down by making his envelope a little heavier than he expected it to be. He’s a good kid, just a little too easily excitable. Hopefully he’ll come around. He’s a Hell of a hand, and he has just enough charisma to be dangerous. He could a rising star if he doesn’t get in his own way.

corporate_icon · June 28, 2020

ICWA Demented: Nov Week 1, 1995 (Episode 005)

<div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="gOkV4sz.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/gOkV4sz.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div>

This week Demented cold opens outside in the parking lot. The crowd begins to cheer as we see...

<img alt="kqAVAIN.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/kqAVAIN.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="tdcGly5.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/tdcGly5.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

... Doug Gilbert in blue jeans and leather jacket pacing outside with a black crowbar in his hand. Off to the side Elizabeth, who’s face looks significantly better than it did during her interview last week, is pleading with Doug to just calm down. Doug however doesn’t respond, as he continues to pace with a cold dark look in his eyes.

From there we go into the opening video / theme for ICWA Demented on FX. From there we head into the arena as the crowd roars. We find our way to the commentary table where Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle are seated.

Burt Busch, “Hello again everybody, I’m Burt Busch alongside the legendary Nick Bockwinkle! Welcome to ICWA Demented, LIVE on FX! We have got a fully charged line up for you here tonight including two big ICWA World Title Tournament qualifiers, as well as a big time grudge match between Konnan and the World’s Most Dangerous Man, Ken Shamrock! Plus our main event… Sabu will defend the ICWA National Heavyweight Championship against Cactus Jack! But Nick, how about Doug Gilbert out in the parking lot here in Maryland?”

Nick Bockwinkle, “He told you last week he was coming for Raven. I warned you about jumping to conclusions about Elizabeth’s incident two weeks ago. We still don’t know that Raven or his flock had anything to do with Elizabeth’s mishap.”

Burt Busch, “Doug Gilbert is waiting in the parking lot with a crowbar for Raven, and we’ve got a camera stationed out there so that we’ll know as soon as Raven arrives tonight. In the meantime, let’s take you to the ring for our opening bout…”

{Cold Open / Demented Opening Segment: - B Rating}

Opening Bout

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

<img alt="To9xQRU.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/To9xQRU.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="0u08vLL.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/0u08vLL.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="UrK2F0P.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/UrK2F0P.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Hercules Hernandez (w/ Oliver Humperdink) Vs 2 Cold Scorpio

Referee: Dick Worhle

Road Agent: Les Thatcher

{In a decent match, Hercules Hernandez defeated 2 Cold Scorpio in 10:29 by pinfall with a Backbreaker rack. Match Rating: C+}

From there we fade back to the parking lot where Doug Gilbert is still pacing with a crowbar.

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

Burt Busch, “Doug Gilbert is still lying in wait out in the parking lot…”

A big ol’ Lincoln town car pulls in as Gilbert catches just a glimpse of the passenger. His interest seems to be peaked.

Burt Busch, “Wait a minute now… Do you think this is…”

Burt’s words trail off as the car parks and the doors draw open. The passenger gets out, his back to us with his long curled locks falling down over his leather jacket covered shoulders. Doug Gilbert darts over as he yells, “RAVEN YOU SON OF A B***H…”

The passenger turns around just in time for Doug Gilbert to put a forearm up and drive him back against the car, raising the crowbar high, but as he does he realizes it’s…

<img alt="OXj0fte.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/OXj0fte.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Burt Busch, “That’s not Raven! That’s Tom Prichard!”

Doug, “UGGGH!”

Doug let’s go of Tom as Tom’s partner…

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

Jimmy Del Ray comes around the car aggressively, only to throw his hands up in surrender when Doug steps back and points his crowbar at Jimmy with the fire in his eyes.

Burt Busch, “Doug Gilbert thought that Raven had arrived, but it’s the Heavenly Bodies Tom Prichard and Jimmy Del Ray. “

Del Ray and Prichard both back off, walking cautiously backwards toward the venue as Doug stands there looking like a man possessed.

Nick Bockwinkle, “The Bodies aren’t even getting their bags out of the car.”

Burt Busch, “I guess they’ll send somebody back out for ‘em. Doug Gilbert’s gonna end up hurting somebody here tonight, and if he has it his way that somebody’s gonna be Raven.”

{Segment Rating: C+}

*Commercial Break*

When we return

Match Two

One on One

<img alt="kXuubNz.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/kXuubNz.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="goA5Lqh.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/goA5Lqh.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Jake Roberts Vs Tatanka

Referee: Mickey Jay

Road Agent: Larry Sharpe

{ In an exceptional match, Tatanka defeated Jake Roberts in 10:25 by pinfall with a Tomohawk Chop. Match Rating: B}

After the match the lights go out. When they come back Jake is gone and Tatanka is looking around trying to figure out what’s going on. The lights go out again, The lights come back on and Tatanka is in the position to take a Pedigree. Gangrel hoists him up by the arms and does a sitout hitting what we now know as Christopher Daniels’ Angel’s Wings.

Burt Busch, “Who is… That’s…

<img alt="FDg222w.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/FDg222w.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

That’s Darius Cain!”

The hot new track by the Smashing Pumpkins “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” blasts over the PA as Darius Spins and stays down on the mat with his palms out forward, his knees out back and his head up looking almost serpentine as he bares his vampire like fangs and smirks.

Burt Busch, “We’ve seen the vignettes, and now Darius Cain has arrived to the ICWA and Nick… I don’t think Tatanka’s going to be a fan of this bizarre new comer.”

The lights flash in red as we fade on Darius still sliding around on his knees and palms.

{Darius Cain debut Segment: B-}

*Commercial Break*

When we return we see a “Moments Ago” replay of Darius Cain’s arrival.

Burt Busch, “Folks, if you just joined us, Darius Cain just made his mark here on the ICWA… And folks, I just got word right before we came back from the commercial break that we will see Darius Cain in action, LIVE next week right here on FX!”

As the replay wraps up, we head to the ring for the next bout. During Konnan’s entrance we see a replay of him disrupting Shamrock’s interview last week and then attacking him from behind with a foreign object.

Match Three

Grudge Match

<img alt="bL3EpDr.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/bL3EpDr.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="Dgh8qom.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/Dgh8qom.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Konnan Vs Ken Shamrock

Referee: Scrappy McGowan

Road Agent: Kevin Von Erich

After ten minutes, Konnan goes to whip Shamrock off the ropes, but Shamrock reverses… Konnan bounces back and Shamrock catches him and BAM!

Burt Busch, “Belly To Belly Suplex by Shamrock!”

Shamrock let’s out a mighty roar as Konnan starts to roll to his stomach. Shamrock shoots to his legs and drops to a knee, applying the ankle lock as the crowd roars.

Burt Busch, “OH! Ankle Lock! The same maneuver that made Jeff Jarrett submit last week!”

Konnan is screaming when… CRAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!

Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Burt Busch, “WHAT IN THE… WAIT A MINUTE… THAT’S… THAT’S DAN THE BEAST SEVERN FROM THE UFC!”

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

Scrappy has called for the bell as Shamrock has hit the mat and Konnan is pulling himself across the ring, holding his ankle in pain.

Burt Busch, “Dan “The Beast” Severn has come to the ICWA! Dan The Beast Severn, the former Ultimate Fighting Superfight Champion has come to the ICWA in pursuit of the man who took his superfight title, Ken Shamrock!”

By now Konnan has gotten up and he appears to be directing traffic as he yells at Severn to pick him up and slam him again.

Burt Busch, “What is this?! Are Konnan and Severn in cahoots? Do you think… Nick, do you think Konnan brought Dan Severn to the ICWA to go after Shamrock?”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Whether he did or he didn’t, that’s what’s happening.”

Severn does as instructed and drives Shamrock to the mat with a hard belly to belly suplex. Finally the ring starts to flood with officials and Konnan puts a hand on Severn’s chest as if to keep him back from the officials.

Burt Busch, “Dan Severn has arrived, Ken Shamrock has been assaulted, and Konnan has lost this contest but has certainly come out ahead in the budding rivalry.”

{C- Minus Match Rating}

*Commercial Break*

When we return we see the replay of Dan Severn attacking Ken Shamrock. Then we see “During The Break” Shamrock being assisted to the back, and defiantly shoving off the agents trying to assist him. We come back live where we find Shamrock backstage flipping a table over and screaming.

“WHERE IS HE?! WHERE’S SEVERN?! WHERE IS HE?!”

We come back to the ring as Burt Busch says, “Man oh Man, Shamrock is on the hunt and he is HOT! And speaking of the hunt, the hunt for the ICWA World title continues as we head into another ICWA World Heavyweight Championship Tournament Qualifying match up! Take it away T.C.”

{Segment Rating: C}

With that we head to ring announcer TC Martin as we head into the next bout.

Match Four

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Scott Steiner Vs The Barbarian (w/ Gary Hart)

Referee: Mark Curtis

Road Agent: Bob Armstrong

{ In a good match, Scott Steiner defeated The Barbarian in 7:32 by pinfall. Match Rating: C+}

Burt Busch, “And Scott Steiner advances in the ICWA World Title tournament.”

We switch from Steiner having his arm raised in the ring to

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Doug Gilbert out in the parking lot, pacing with his crowbar. Elizabeth at this point has given up on calming him and is just leaning against the car in a coat.

Finally Doug shakes his head and says, “Screw this, I’m not waitin’ anymore.”

Elizabeth perks up, “Good! Let’s just g…”

Doug, “I’m going to the ring!”

Burt Busch, “He’s coming to the ring?! Oh Man… Folks don’t go away, we’ll be right back!”

*Commercial Break*

When we return, Doug Gilbert’s theme hits and he makes his way to the ring, crowbar still in hand and an anxious Elizabeth still in tow.

Burt Busch, “Doug Gilbert has been waiting in the parking lot for Raven to show up since the start of this broadcast, and now he is on his way to the ring.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “But to what end, Burt? If Raven’s not here, what good is coming to the ring going to do?”

Burt Busch, “That’s a fair question, and I don’t have the answer, but I reckon we’re fixin to find out.”

Doug Gilbert and Elizabeth get into the ring, his music fading as he takes the microphone from TC Martin.

Doug Gilbert, “RAAAAAAAAAY-VEN! RAAAAAAAAY-VEN! Raven you chicks**t COWARD!”

Busch, “Whoa!”

Doug Gilbert, “I’m done playing games with you Raven! I’m DONE! You’ve known for a WEEK that I was coming here tonight to break my foot in your ASS! And if you were any kind of a REAL man you’d have been here to take your ass kicking like a MAN! But you’re not a man! You and your curly long locks and your pissy attitude… You’re not a man, you’re a B**CH!”

The crowd roars as Burt Busch exclaims, “OH MAN! Folks, we’re sorry for the language here…”

Doug Gilbert, “RAVENNN…”

“Whoa Whoa Whoa… Hold On a minute.”

Doug’s head snaps around to the entrance way. Through the curtain walks…

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…Stevie Richards with Blue Meanie & Axl Rotten.

Stevie Richards, “Now you just hold on a minute there bub! I’ll have you know….”

Doug Gilbert, “Shut your stupid MOUTH!”

Stevie seems taken aback as the crowd cheers.

Burt Busch, “Well I guess he told him.”

Doug Gilbert, “Unless the next words out of your mouth are, ‘And here’s Raven,’ I don’t want to hear ‘em. Understood?”

Stevie, “Well…”

Doug Gilbert, “AH-AH-AH… Are those the next words out of your mouth?”

Stevie shrugs, “And… here’s Raven?”

WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAM!”

Burt Busch, “OH!”

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Burt Busch, “RAVEN! RAVEN came from… well Hell, I don’t know where he came from, but he slid in behind Doug Gilbert and just BLASTED him from behind!”

Raven is putting the boots to Gilbert hard, but Gilbert is pushing his way up. Gilbert gets up and begins throwing hard right hands back at Raven as the crowd roars. Those roars however are quickly shifted back to boos as Stevie, Meanie and Rotten all slide in and jump on Gilbert, beating him down to the mat.

Burt Busch, “Oh come on! This is a four on one MUGGING!”

Elizabeth is screaming but Lexi York has her by the hair and is forcing her to watch as Raven and the flock stomp away at her man.

Burt Busch, “Come on already! Enough’s enough!”

Raven finally hoists Gilbert up by the neck, front facelocks him, grabs a fist full of his jeans and hoists him up, snapping back and driving his head into the mat.

Burt Busch, “Ugh! Evenflow! Evenflow DDT by Raven!”

And with that Ravem comes up and stretches his arms in the crucifix pose as “Come As You Are” by Nirvana blasts over the PA, nearly drowned out by the boos of the fans. Lexi York shoves Elizabeth down atop of Gilbert drawing more boos before she rolls her eyes, then smirks and finds her way back to Raven.

Burt Busch, “What a vile, disgusting group of individuals… We need some help her for Doug Gilbert and possibly Elizabeth as well… I just can’t… Unbelievable.”

{Gilbert/Liz/Flock Segment Rating: C+}

*Commercial Break*

When we return Burt walks us through a replay of what just happens. When the replay concludes we find ourselves at ringside with Burt and Nick.

Burt Busch, “Well folks, we were supposed to have a match here tonight featuring the Heavenly Bodies Tom Prichard and Jimmy Del Ray in tag team competition against a team called The Public Enemy. However, due to time restraints brought on by that impromptu chain of events sparked by Doug Gilbert coming to the ring moments ago, we will bring you that match up next week in an effort to make sure there is plenty of time left available for our ICWA National Championship Main Event! And speaking of, let’s take you to the ring with TC Martin as we get ready to kick things off.”

Main Event

ICWA National Heavyweight Championship

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Cactus Jack Vs Sabu

Referee: Tommy Young

Road Agent: Rick Steamboat

{ In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Cactus Jack defeated Sabu in 12:36 by pinfall with a Double Arm DDT. Cactus Jack wins the ICWA National Heayvweight Championship title. Match Rating: C+}

“Symphany of Destruction” by Megadeth begins blasting over the PA as the crowd cheers.

Burt Busch, “And Cactus Jack has just become the ICWA National Heavyweight Champion!”

Cactus Jack raises the championship high in the air as he slowly walks around the ring.

Burt Busch, “Well folks, live next week we’ll see…… Wait a minute, What is THIS?!”

Somebody in blue jeans and a camo jacket comes sliding into the ring with a steel chair as Cactus Jack’s back is to the aisle. Jack turns just in time…

CRAAAAAAAAAAAACK!

Burt Busch, “OH! He just nailed Cactus Jack!”

Jack goes spaghetti legged but he doesn’t go down. The man whose face we’ve yet to get a clear shot of stabs Jack in the gut with the top of the chair doubling him over and then CRAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK! Right across the upper back and back of the head he nails Jack making him drop. Sabu by now has gotten up, but hasn’t collected himself. The man turns…

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Burt Busch, “JACK IS OUT AND… AND… THAT’S STEVE AUSTIN! STEVE AUSTIN HAS ARRIVED IN THE ICWA”

Austin darts across and cracks Sabu over the head making him go through the ropes to the floor outside.

Burt Busch, “And there goes Sabu!”

The crowd roars with a mix of boos and cheers as Austin tosses the chair and powers back to where Cactus dropped the ICWA National Championship. Austin grabs the belt, picks it up, and drops down to a knee driving the title into back of the head of Jack as the fans boo.

Burt Busch, “Ugh!”

Austin stands up and does it again.

Burt Busch, “Come on now!”

Finally Austin gets up, unfolds the belt and lifts it up high with one hand as he looks down at Foley and lays in some inaudible trash talk. Finally what we assume to be Austin’s theme song hits as he throws the belt down at Cactus and raises both arms high in the air.

Burt Busch, “Steve Austin has made his first LIVE appearance in the ICWA and he has damn sure made it a memorable one! What will be the fall out next week on FX? I expect all of these men to be there, plus what will be the fallout with Raven and Doug Gilbert? The world title tournament continues, and so much more! For everybody here at the ICWA, we’ll catch ya next week!”

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corporate_icon · June 28, 2020

Meeting Nolan Davis

A Change In The Landscape

Meeting Nolan Davis

Written from the perspective of Tim White

As Bruce and I wait for our meeting with FX Executives Anne Sweeny and Mark Sonnenberg, I have to say I’m feeling pretty mixed with emotions and ideas right now. On the heels of what I can only describe as another successful episode of ICWA Demented, I think we are delivering on our commitments to FX, News Corp, and ultimately Rupert Murdoch. Ratings continue to increase, the feedback on our programs seems to continue to get better and better, and I’m slowly starting to get my sea legs under me as far as working as a booker/ executive in the wrestling business.

Bruce and I have been talking, and Bruce really wants us to push to get onto Pay Per View. He feels it’s absolutely vital in today’s wrestling marketplace to have Pay Per View in order to have legitimacy as a top wrestling organization. If this meeting goes well, I plan to bring it up, but I’m not sure how receptive they’re going to be given that the entire purpose of the ICWA was to generate ratings on FX. My concern is that in order to have any chance at Pay Per View I need to make sure that I don’t pitch it in such a way that makes it obvious that in our world nowadays weekly TV is really a commercial to get people to buy Pay Per Views. That’d be great as a revenue stream for the ICWA, but so far nobody has suggested to me that our goal is to be profitable so much as it is to just drive traffic to the network. That said though, surely being profitable would be perceived as a plus, and I can’t imagine losing money will be a non-issue forever.

I’d also like to get a developmental territory going so that we can get guys who have worlds of potential before the WWF or WCW can get them, but still have someplace for them to get polished and continue learning until they’re ready for TV or we’re ready to put them on TV. Another investment that may prove a difficult sell given that these folks are used to dealing with more traditional television where there’s not so much outside expense that’s hard to explain in TV terms just how it directly contributes to the goal of driving traffic to the network.

Speaking of Driving traffic, we do continue to be the most watched program on FX and FX Canada. So that’s a plus. Oh, wait a minute, the door’s opening… Oh, good, it seems Anne and Mark are ready for us now. Let’s head in.

Anne Sweeny, President of FX and Fox Movie Studio, was a woman who was a little tough to get a read on. Truthfully, I don’t think she thought much of us, or of professional wrestling. But she was smart enough to know that with the decision coming down from Rupert Murdoch personally, there wasn’t any point in fighting it. As such, to this point she’s pretty much let me run things however I’ve wanted to, and I haven’t heard much from her. Mark Sonnenberg, the director of programming for FX, was what I’d call an ally. It was actually his recommendation that got me here. However, I wasn’t sure who the third person in the room was. Whomever he was, I could tell that there was some friction between he and Anne just by watching their body language toward each other.

Anne, “Tim… Bruce… I know that you both know Mark, but I’m not sure you’ve had the opportunity to meet Nolan Davis… Nolan Davis has been appointed as the President of News Corps’ newest division, Sports and Uncategorized Entertainment, or SUE.”

An interesting development. I shook Nolan’s hand, as did Bruce, and we all sat down.

Anne Sweeny, “So gentlemen, I want to get the elephant out of the room right away. You’re probably wondering why Nolan is here today. Well, Nolan will from this point on be your direct supervisor in relation to News Corp as a corporate entity. So, while Mark and I will still be your main go-to on anything FX related, News Corp has realized that the ICWA is a unique item in that it is its own living breathing entity with it’s own revenue streams, and its own staffing needs and things that we don’t typically have to worry about with programing. Ordinarily we just say yes or no to a program, and they do the rest. But because we actually own this ICWA, and the ICWA in turn has become a part of News Corp, We had to have a division for the ICWA. It wasn’t logical that it be ran exclusively as a part of FX.”

Nolan pipes in, “Basically what you need to know is that I’m your new go-to. Anne and Mark will certainly still be involved with the ICWA, especially on matters that directly affect the FX network, but I’ll be handling ICWA as part of the S.U.E Division of News Corp. Now, that having been said, please don’t feel like this is an earth-shattering moment for you guys or for the ICWA. It is not. We’re only a month in so it’s far too early to tell if there needs to be any changes made, but from what I’ve seen so far, all of the numbers are showing upward trends. ICWA Demented is easily the highest rated program on the network by a runaway margin, so that’s fantastic. Revenue is at a loss right now, but that was expected being that you’re an entirely new entity and all of the start up costs and expenses that go with that. I’ll be your path to budget approvals moving forward, but I have no intention of touching the current budget you’re working with. You have a set amount of funds to spend however you see fit and I have no intention of stepping on that right now. But what I would like to do right now, gentlemen, is I’d like to hear from you. How are things at the ICWA? Is there anything that we can do to improve your ability to be successful with the ICWA?”

Bruce looked at me with the eyes of an eight year old looking at the big red shiny bicycle parked by the Christmas Tree. I could tell he was thinking that this was our chance to get Pay Per View and Development. My fear was if I pitched two items, I’d probably get one, but I’d probably be told no on one as well. Give me something to let me know they’re on my side, but keep something to negotiate with later. So I needed to throw in something I felt they’d want to veto more than Pay Per View or acquiring a developmental territory…

I cleared my throat, “Well first let me say that I’m delighted at the opportunity to work with you, Mr. Davis, to continue to build the ICWA brand.”

Nolan interjected, “Please, just call me Nolan.”

I nodded, “and Anne, Mark, I’m also glad we’ll still be working closely as well. You’ve been great to work with.”

Mark smiled and nodded, Anne seemed uninterested as she looked through her planner, but she gave me a slight head nod.

I continued, “However, Nolan, I have to tell you that there are a couple of things that the ICWA could use to continue our upward trend that on their face may not SEEM like a direct benefit to FX, but would certainly benefit the ICWA, which in the long run would benefit the network.”

Nolan nodded, “Please, continue.”

I took a deep breath, “Well, for starters, I don’t know how much you know about professional wrestling, but up until about ten years ago there was a territory system in place. Wrestlers would start out in some regionally based territory, and they would travel all across the country working in these different territories. You might break into the business, for example, with Verne Gagne in Minneapolis. And he’d train you and have you start to learn your trade by working shows in that Minnesota area territory, and you might just be a bottom of the card guy there while you’re learning the ins and outs of your trade. But it was okay that you were making mistakes and still learning, because you could eventually leave that area and go to Portland to work for Don Owens or head to Dallas to work for Fritz Von Erich, or the Carolinas with Jim Crocket or whatever… The point is, you had a lot of places to continue to tweak and perfect your craft so that eventually you’d be seasoned well enough that you could go to one of the bigger territories like the WWF or Crocket or World Class or Japan or wherever and have the skills to really draw fans and be a top tier performer. Right now the wrestling world doesn’t have that. So there are these guys out there who send us their tapes and we can tell that man, that guy’s going to be something special. Or at the very least, he COULD be something special with the right mentoring and the right experience, but he’s not ready to be on Demented yet, so we either have to leave him out there to be discovered by Vince McMahon or Eric Bischoff and risk that they turn this kid into the next Hulk Hogan, or we have to bring them on before they’re ready and HOPE that they can get their stuff together before the fans completely check out on them.”

Nolan, “It sounds like what you’re saying is, that the ICWA is Major League Baseball, but you need a Triple A Club to get guys ready for the major league, is that the sum of it Tim?”

Hmm…. I guess I could have saved us some time and just summed it up that way.

I nodded, “That’s right Nolan.”

Nolan, “How do you purpose we resolve that issue?”

“I’d like to invest some money into putting some superb trainers and legends of the sport in business to run a regional wrestling organization that we would own, but they’d operate, and send guys there who we think have the potential to be major players one day, but need the time to develop in the minors first.”

Nolan, “Alright. Get me a cost analysis of exactly what we’re looking at, and as long as it’s within the parameters of what I’d consider reasonable, I’ll take it under advisement. Anything else?”

“As a matter of fact… I’d like to be able to air our show with another network.”

And with that remark I suddenly had Anne Sweeny’s undivided attention. Mark Sonneberg’s eyes were as wide as saucers, and frankly Bruce’s eyes looked pretty similar there beside me as well. Nolan, however, was clearly intrigued.

Nolan, “Go on.”

Tim White, “Just in places that FX hasn’t penetrated yet. I want to get ICWA recognition outside the American and Canadian marketplaces. There are a lot of countries and cultures that LOOOOOOOOVE pro wrestling, and I want to increase our visibility with those folks. I want there to come a time where we can bring huge profitability to News Corp not JUST through our contribution to FX, but also on our own two legs as a prized part of the S.U.E. Division of News Corp.”

Anne, “That is ridiculous. You were brought in for one purpose, to drive traffic to FX.”

Nolan, “That might be the reason the ICWA came to be, but that doesn’t mean it has to remain all that they are… I like it. Tim, If you can find a broadcaster in an area that News Corp doesn’t have reach or you’ve given a News Corp affiliated network the first opportunity to carry your program and they turn it down, you may pursue TV deals elsewhere.”

Anne, “I don’t think Rupert’s going to like this.”

Nolan, “Let me worry about Rupert.”

Well Hell… So that was my “There’s no way this will be approved” play. I figured if I asked for our show to air on a non News Corp station, surely requesting Pay Per View would seem pretty tame by comparison.

Nolan, “Anything else?”

Tim, “Well… Just one other thing…”

Nolan nodded as if to tell me to continue.

“Pay Per View.”

Nolan shrugged, “If you want to order Tommy Boy to the room when you’re on the road, I don’t care. We’re not watching your travel expenses that closely.”

I shook my head, “No-no… I want to try and get some deals in place to get the ICWA on Pay Per View.”

Anne, “Again… You’re here to drive traffic to FX…”

Nolan, “Hmm… I must admit, I’m inclined to agree with Anne this time. If people are ordering an ICWA Pay Per View, by default they’re not watching whatever’s on FX when that Pay Per View is on. It feels like a conflict of News Corps’ interests.”

“Hear me out now… Both the World Wrestling Federation and World Championship Wrestling bring in major revenue by airing pay per view events every month or two. It’s a big draw, but more than that, for a major wrestling company it’s a final stamp of legitimacy. People know you’re big league when you’re on Pay Per View. That’s not just great for our image, but it’s also great for our ability to bring in top stars. You can’t get the Hulk Hogans or the Randy Savages without Pay Per View.”

Nolan, “I appreciate where you’re coming from here Tim, but I think we’re going to have to say no to Pay Per View. But get me the cost analysis on the ICWA minor league, and feel free to expand your footprint outside the FX reach if you think you can. In turn, though I need something from you guys.”

“I really can’t emphasis enough how much Pay Per…”

Nolan continued, making it clear to me the Pay Per View discussion was over.

Nolan, “I want you guys to do a second show.”

“A… Second show?”

Nolan nodded, “Yeah. Nothing the size or expense of Demented. I just want something to fill an hour time slot on Saturday nights on FX. We have a graveyard spot that needs to be filled, and Rupert doesn’t want us just running paid programming all night, so I’d like to put on wrestling. You can tape the matches the same night you guys do your Demented program, and then we’ll just air it on Saturdays in that graveyard time slot. Okay?”

I could tell there was only one answer to that question, so I nodded and said, “Sure thing.”

Nolan nodded and started to stand up, which seemed to prompt the rest of us to do the same.

Nolan, “Oh, and I want the first episode ready to air by next Saturday. Alright gentlemen, it’s been a pleasure meeting you. Let me know if you need anything, Anne has my card. I look forward to a long and prosperous relationship.”

And with that, Nolan grabbed his brief case and left. Anne, who was visibly annoyed handed a card to Mark, and then she turned and left as well.

Tim, “Well……”

Mark, “Yeah… Well hey, Nolan’s an okay guy. Keep doing what you guys are doing and he may come around on Pay Per View. Here ya go.”

Mark handed me Nolan’s card and gave me a supportive pat on the shoulder before he too left the conference room.

Bruce, “Is there a network interested in us outside of the FX reach?”

I shrugged, “I sure hope so, otherwise I may not have much to show for my over asking strategy.”

I sighed as we left. Interesting times were clearly ahead.

Historian · July 4, 2020

You've really been doing some interesting stuff here. I love the roster you've built. Give Vader all the belts. ALL THE BELTS.

corporate_icon · July 4, 2020

You've really been doing some interesting stuff here. I love the roster you've built. Give Vader all the belts. ALL THE BELTS.

Thanks man, I appreciate it. I think you'll enjoy the next episode of Demented where your love of Vader and your love of cowboy gunslingers collide!

corporate_icon · July 6, 2020

ICWA Demented: Nov Week 2, 1995 (Episode 006)

At the Arena before Demented could take air, there were -as there always are- several dark matches. However, for the first time in ICWA’s short life, there were “Taped for TV” matches that will air this Saturday on the brand new “ICWA Collision” set to air during the Graveyard hours of the night on FX here in the states, and TSN in Canada. FX Canada didn’t want anymore wrestling, so we got the approval to sell the show to TSN in the Great White North. The matches -which will air between re-caps / reruns of key moments from tonight’s Demented- will be / we as follows:

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{ In a terrible match, Miracle Violence Connection defeated Boogie Woogie Brown and Norvell Austin in 5:37 when Steve Williams defeated Norvell Austin by pinfall with an Oklahoma Stampede. D Rating}

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{ In a bout that had sub-par wrestling and little heat, La Parka defeated Psicosis in 9:33 by pinfall with a surprise roll up. D Rating}

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(In a poor match, DOA - Brian Lee & Snake defeated The Fantastics II in 10:39 when Snake defeated Jackie Fulton by pinfall with a Pumphandle Slam. D+ Rating)

Collision Main Event

LAST ICWA World Heavyweight Championship

Tournament Qualifier

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Maniac Mason Vs Jim Duggan

Referee: Tim White

Road Agent: Larry Sharpe

{In a decent match Maniac Mason defeated Jim Duggan by pinfall with a Moonsault. C Rating}

Ring Announcer T.C. Martin, “This has concluded our matches for ICWA Collision! Check your local listings to find out when Collision will air HERE in Alaska on Saturday night!”

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For our viewers at home, as the previous program on FX goes black, we head into our opening video with clips of The Steiners, Piper, Vader, Funk, Simmons, DOA, Lexi York, Elizabeth and others to the beat of the high energy ICWA Demented theme song. Finally we come out of the video and and begin takings shots around the venue as the music continues. Ordinarily we’d go to Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle at ringside, but tonight the ICWA Theme song fades only for another theme song to take it’s place.

T.C. Martin, “Ladies and Gentlemen, Please welcome from Victoria Texas… STEEEEEEEEVE AUSSSSSSSSSTIN!”

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As Austin emerges from the curtain and begins down the ramp, Burt Busch exclaims, “Welcome everybody to ICWA Demented! Live from Sullivan Arena here in beautiful Anchorage, Alaska. Steve Austin on his way to the ring, and folks, let’s take ya back to the end of Demented last week where we saw Steve Austin in person for the very first time…”

Burt Busch walks us through a replay of Austin doing a run in on Cactus Jack and Sabu after Cactus Jack won the ICWA National Championship last week. By the time he finishes, Austin has made his way into the ring and obtained a microphone.

Steve Austin, “I told each and every one of you sum-bitches six weeks ago…. I told you that I was coming to the ICWA, and I was coming to be the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Champion. Well here I am, and the mission is still the same! Now I couldn’t get here in time to be entered in the ICWA World Title tournament on account of the fact that I wasn’t medically cleared to get back in the ring. Well I’m cleared now, and I’m here to be the champion. Since the tournament isn’t an option, I had to choose another way. So I chose to set my sights on the ICWA National Championship. Ya see, the way I see it, if being national champion was enough to get Sabu’s ass a bye in the tournament, it ought-to damn well be enough to make me the top contender to challenge the sum-bitch that wins the tournament for the ICWA World Heavyweight title!”

Burt Busch, “Like him or not, the logic is sound.”

Steve Austin, “Which is why I let Cactus Jack know on no uncertain terms last week that his ass and that title belong to Steve Austin!”

The crowd boos.

Steve Austin, “So Cactus, there’s a couple-uh ways we can do this damn thing… Either you can walk your happy ass down that aisle and face me like a man. Or… I can come back there, whip your ASS all the way down to this ring, embarrass you like I did last week, and take your title by force. The choice is yours, but you better make it quick because I’ve got things to do and staying in this frigid throw-away chunk of land we bought from Canada for a six pack of American beer and a pallet of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese ain’t on the list!”

The crowd boos. Suddenly “WHHHHHHHHHHHHHAT-A-RUSSSSSSSSH!”

Burt Busch, “Wait a minute?! That’s not Cactus Jack… Why that’s….”

The curtain moves and out emerges…

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Burt Busch, “…. Roadwarrior Hawk!”

Hawk makes his way down the aisle as Austin paces the ring looking a little curious, but more annoyed.

Burt Busch, “Austin called out Cactus Jack, but it’s Roadwarrior Hawk on his way to the ring.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Well for what it’s worth, I don’t think Cactus Jack is even here tonight.”

Burt Busch, “No, you’re absolutely right. Cactus Jack is representing the ICWA at an international event in Japan this week. We’re planning on showing you some highlights of that event next week.”

Hawk makes his way up the steps and into the ring, Microphone in hand. His music begins to fade.

Austin, “Well gah-damn Cactus, you’ve had a Helluva make over since last week.”

Hawk seems unamused as he says, “AUSTIN! I don’t know who you THINK you are, but you’ve got SOMMMMMMMMME Nerve walking in here and demanding your first match in the company be for a championship title! I know you been paying dues in the sport for a few years, but let me tell ya, none of that means do-diddly-SQUAT here! And I’ll tell ya ANOTHER THING… You don’t just GET a title shot because you beat up a couple of guys after they beat the Hell out of each other for fifteen minutes first! You wanta fight for a title?! Well get in linnnnne. You wanta fight in general? Well there’s no line for that. We can fight, TONIGHT!”

Austin, “Well if you wanta fight tonight, then I say…….. Hell no, I ain’t gonna fight your ass tonight!”

The crowd boos as Burt Busch inquires, “Why not?!”

Hawk snickers, “What’s the matter Austin, afraid to fight a man face to face? You can only jump a guy from behind?!”

Burt Busch, “Legitimate question.”

Austin snickers, “I ain’t afraid of any sum-bitch walkin. What I *am* however is a man who doesn’t work for free. You wanta get your ass whipped tonight, I’ll gladly be the man to put that ass-whoopin’ on ya son. But I ain’t doin’ it unless you can get somebody up the ladder to agree to give me my title match once I stomp a mudhole in your ass and WALK IT DRY! You make that happen, and I’ll gladly whip your ass tonight. Otherwise, go find somebody else to lace up their boots tonight, because it damn sure ain’t gonna be me.”

With that Austin’s music retakes the PA as Austin tosses the mic aside and puts up his hands as if to say “Hey, ball’s in your court.”

Austin hops out of the ring as Hawk simply stares him down.

Burt Busch, “How about that… Hawk looking to go one on one with Steve Austin here tonight, but the only way Austin will accept the match is if it’s essentially a number one contenders match for the ICWA National Heavyweight Championship. I understand that calls are already being made. Hopefully we’ll be able to tell you whether or not that match will take place tonight when we come back from this brief commercial break.”

{Austin/Hawk Opening Segment: B- Rating}

*Commercial Break*

When we return Burt Busch reminds us that the up coming contest was supposed to take place last week, but we ran out of time due to the in ring confrontation between Doug Gilbert and Raven. We have been told that Doug Gilbert and Raven have both been banned from the building tonight, however, next week they will finally go one on one. However, Raven refused to sign the match contract unless the match was contested under “Raven’s Rules.” Burt doesn’t know what that means exactly, but Gilbert has agreed and he and Raven will finally meet one on one.

Burt also lets us know that later on tonight he’ll have a sit down interview with Terry Funk discussing his health, and his injury at the hands of Vader two weeks ago. Speaking of Vader, he will be in action later on here tonight as well. Plus, Roddy Piper is in the house, and we’ll get his take on the recent developments in the ICWA World Title Tournament.

In the midst of this next match, Burt will get word from the back that Austin/Hawk will happen tonight and the winner will indeed challenge Cactus Jack live on FX next week for the ICWA National Heavyweight Title.

Opening Bout

Tag Team

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The Heavenly Bodies (w/ Dawn Marie) Vs The Public Enemy

Referee: Dick Worhle

Road Agent: Les Thatcher

{In a poor match, The Heavenly Bodies defeated The Public Enemy in 8:03 when Tom Prichard defeated Rocco Rock by pinfall by using underhanded tactics D+ Match Rating}

With that we head backstage where Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner are standing by with Larry Matysik. Rick is in his head where as Scott is in blue jeans, a Steiner Brothers T Shirt and his Michigan jacket.

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Larry Matysik, “Solid tag team action there between the Heavenly Bodies and The Public Enemy. Those are just a couple of the teams nipping at your heels for a shot at those ICWA World Tag Team championships. Last week, Scott Steiner, you formally qualified for the ICWA World Heavyweight Title tournament when you beat The Barbarian in a qualifying match up. Moments from now, Rick, you will have the opportunity potentially to do the same as go up against Buddy Landel in an ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament qualifying match up of your own. Gentlemen, with these big single’s opportunities, does it distract from your efforts to remain ICWA World Tag Team champions?”

Scott pipes up, “No it don’t Larry! My brother and me are the best tag team in all of professional wrestling! We’ll beat anybody! Heavenly Bodies, Public Enemy, Miracle Violence Connection… ANYBODY! And that don’t change just because one of us is probably gonna be the next ICWA World’s Heavyweight Champion!”

Rick Steiner, “That’s right! We know how to chew gum and walk at the same time, Larry!”

Larry Matysik, “Well, how about that then? What happens if somewhere along the line in this tournament you two end up going head to head?”

Scott, “We’ll cross that bridge if we get to it, but my brother and me have been fighting all our lives. Usually it’s against other people, but if we gotta fight each other, all I can say is I hope it’s in championship fight, because the only challenger who could take a Steiner to their limit, would be another Steiner.”

Rick, “That’s right! No matter whether it’s Scott or it’s me, we’ll just be proud to see the ICWA World Heavyweight title with the name Steiner on it. And whichever one of us becomes world champion, we’ve already made it perfectly clear with ourselves, and we’ll make it perfectly clear with anybody else, we will NOT sherk our responsibilities as ICWA World Tag Team champions. These tag team champions mean as much to tag team wrestling as the ICWA World Heavyweight title means to singles wrestling. All one of us winning the ICWA title means is that in addition to the Steiner Brothers best tag team in the world, one of us will be recognized as the best individual wrestler in the world too!”

Scott, “Yeah! Alright big brother, Go get ‘em man! Go get ‘em!”

Rick nods, clearly pumped up as he heads away and we fade to break, Burt Busch in the background reminding us that that match up is coming up when we return.

*Commercial Break*

When we return we head right into the entrances for the next match.

Match

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Buddy Landel (w/ Missy Hyatt) Vs Rick Steiner

Referee: Scrappy McGowan

Road Agent: Kevin Von Erich

{In a decent match, Buddy Landel defeated Rick Steiner in 7:41 by pinfall after interference from Missy Hyatt. During the match we also saw Bam Bam Gordy distract Rick Steiner, and Steve Williams also distract Rick Steiner. C- Match Rating }

Match Finish: Rick Steiner hits a bulldog on Buddy Landel. He's about to go for a cover when he realizes that...

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... Bam Bam Gordy and Steve Williams have walked down to the bottom of the aisle. Steiner and the referee both head to the aisle side ropes. As the official yells at the Miracle Violence Connection to get back, Missy slides a foreign object into Buddy Landel that he can slip on his hand. Steiner steps back, turns and WHAAAAM! Hard right hand drops him down. He tosses the object back out to Missy and yells for the referee as he drops down for the cover, 1, 2, 3.

*Commercial Break*

We return with a “Moments Ago” recap of MVC costing Rick Steiner his ICWA Title tournament match up. After that we find Larry Matysik standing with Bam Bam Gordy and Dr. Death Steve Williams.

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Larry, “Gentlemen… You just cost Rick Steiner his opportunity to potentially become ICWA World’s Heavyweight Champion… Why would you do something like that?!”

Gordy, “Cause if we’d of sat around waiting for these Steiners to go through this world title tournament, it’s all that either one of ‘em would have been thinkin’ about and it’d take us forever to get our World Tag Team title match.”

Larry, “Well I understand that you guys are currently ranked as the top contending team to the ICWA World Tag Team titles, but you just heard the Steiners say moments ago that they wouldn’t allow this tournament to prevent them from keeping up with their obligations as ICWA World Tag Team champions…”

Gordy, “Man, they already have. We should have been had our tag team…”

Larry’s e yes get big as he says, “Oh wait a minute fellas…”

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Suddenly the Steiners are in the scene and these four big ol’ boys are throwing the soup bones.

Larry, “We’re gonna need security back here! Somebody send Security!”

Burt Busch, “Oh man, the Steiners are furious after Gordy and Williams cost Rick his shot at the ICWA World Hevayweight Title… And they may knock out every wall in this arena if we don’t get somebody back there quick.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Yeah, but who? Security? Come on. You’re going to at least require the National Guard to separate these four guys.”

Burt Busch, “You’re probably right about that.”

Agents and referees all start to try and separate the Steiners and MVC as Burt says, “Well, we’re gonna try and get this backstage situation resolved. When we come back, we’ll show you the sit-down interview I had with Terry Funk this past weekend out at the Double Cross Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Funk has got plenty to say, you won’t want to miss that.”

{MVC/Steiner's Segment Rating: C }

*Commercial Break*

When we return rather than fading back into the arena, we instead find ourselves looking over the famed Double Cross Ranch.

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As we view various shots of the Ranch, we hear Burt Busch narrate, “Welcome to the Double Cross Ranch, just on the outskirts of Amarillo in Canyon, Texas. This is the estate of the former NWA Heavyweight champion, Terry Funk. The NWA is, for all practical purposes, dead and gone. But the drive and determination in Terry Funk to be professional wrestling’s premier World Heavyweight Champion is as profound as it has ever been. Terry Funk was recently sidelined with a fractured jawbone at the hands of the man they call Vader. I met with Terry Funk here at the Double Cross Ranch to discuss his pursuit of the ICWA World Heavyweight title, the injury from Vader, and where he sees things going from here.”

With that we finally find ourselves sitting out on an elaborate patio area. Terry Funk is in a pair of blue jeans, and blue jean looking cotton button up shirt with the top couple of buttons undone. Across from him is Burt Busch in a tan sports coat with a black button up left unbuttoned at the top and blue jeans.

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Burt Busch, “Terry Funk… First and foremost, thank you for allowing us at your home today.”

Terry nods, “Oh, you know you’re always welcome here Burt. You guys too…”

Terry motions to folks off camera who we assume are ICWA staff operating lights and camera and what not.

Burt Busch, “So Terry, how’s the jaw?”

Terry rubs his face and says, “Well, it’s still in pain but when you get to be my age living the kinda life I’ve lived, you’re in pain every day anyway. So this really isn’t anything new. It’s just that my mind is more focused on my jaw than my knees or my back for a change.”

Burt Busch, “What have the doctors said as far as a return time?”

Terry Funk, “They want me to stay out at least another two weeks. I told the powers that be that I didn’t need to miss any time. If it were up to me, you’d be seeing me in action when this airs instead of seeing an interview. But they wanted me to stay home until I’m medically cleared. I’ve never worried about a medical clearance before in my life, but they tell me if I show up at the arena to get my receipt on Vader, they’ll fire my ass. I’m not ready to be unemployed, I’m still trying to be the ICWA World Heavyweight Champion.”

Burt Busch, “Speaking of the ICWA World Heavyweight Championship, we have been told that your return match to the ICWA will be your ICWA World Title Tournament match up against the now former ICWA National Heavyweight Champion, Sabu. Do you think you’ll be ready to head straight back into the title tournament, and against such a capable young competitor?”

Terry Funk, “Well, I don’t know Burt… You’re right, Sabu is a very capable wrestler. He’s certainly much younger than I am. He’s one of the few wrestlers in the world who can take as much punishment as I have and keep moving forward. I saw that fight he and Cactus Jack had for the National title this past Tuesday, and it was just a Helluva fight Burt… I mean a HELL-OF-A-Fight. But listen, the fact remains that this ol’ cowboy’s only got so many rodeos left in him. Sabu will have plenty of time and opportunity to become world champion if he doesn’t do it in this tournament. This may very well be my one and only shot. So you can bet that I’m gonna come back ready to do whatever I’ve gotta do. And if that means I’ve gotta put a thumb in Sabu’s eye, or bite a thumb or whatever it means… Well, so be it. I’m in it to win it Burt.”

Burt Busch, “There are a lot of folks who might have something to say about that; Cyrus, Vader, your friend Ron Simmons, Roddy Piper…”

Terry Funk, “You’re not wrong Burt. This tournament has more talent than any other tournament I’ve ever seen in the sport of professional wrestling. There have been legitimate top tier competitors who haven’t even gotten past the qualifying round. Cyrus… Cyrus is a real bastard. But he’s a talented bastard. He’s strong, he’s deceptively fast, and he’s got that band of thugs with him at all times. Tully Blanchard and Babydoll have always been a winning combination… Cactus Jack just won the National title, he’s no pushover. Ron’s an all American and former World Champion… Roddy Piper… Well come on, what can ya say that hasn’t already been said about Roddy Piper?”

Burt Busch, “I’d be remiss if I didn’t make the observation that of all the people you just mentioned, Vader wasn’t on that list…”

Terry Funk, “Of course Vader makes the list. Vader is a force of destruction. It takes a lot to put me on the shelf for any length of time, and Vader did it. But where Vader made his mistake was, he left air in my lungs. See, if you’re gonna take a shot at me… If you’re gonna try and take me out, you had better damn well make sure that there’s no breath left in my lungs. Because if there is, I will be back, sooner or later, I will be back. And When I come back, sooner or later, ol’ Vader and I are gonna cross paths again. And if it’s for the ICWA World Title, then great. If not, I’ll keep my focus enough to get that championship first, and then, I’m gonna come for Vader. And when I do, I’m bringing Hell with me!”

Burt Busch, “Clearly Terry Funk, you are fired up and ready to go. Before we wrap this thing up, do you have any last remarks?”

Terry Funk, “I’ll remark on this… Vader, Piper, Cyrus, Simmons, Tully, Whoever… I’m coming back soon, and when I do, I’m going for gold and I’m not fixin to let anybody stand in my way.”

We fade on Terry’s dark stare into the camera.

{Funk/Busch Interview: B Rating}

*Commercial Break*

When we come back we find ourselves in the ring for an interest site to be seen…

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It’s a midget cowboy with a T Shirt cannon, firing T Shirts into the crowd.

Burt Busch, “Welcome back folks. Don’t mind ol’ Cowboy Lang dropping by to fire some hot new official ICWA Swag into the crowd. Some lucky fans tonight getting some free ICWA Demented T Shirts here tonight.”

Suddenly the unmistakable theme of Vader hits the PA as the crowd goes from a dull buzz to a chorus of boos.

Burt Busch, “Well ol’ Cowboy Lang’s getting the hook, and we’re gonna head into this next match up.”

From behind the curtain they emerge:

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T.C Martin, “Ladies and Gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for onefall with a ten minute TV Time limit! Introducing first, accompanied by his manager, Harley Race… He weighs in at four hundred fifteen pounds, making his way from the Rocky Mountains in Colorado… He is The Man They Call…. VAAAAAAAAAAAAY-DERRRRRRR!”

Vader and Harley make their way down the aisle, and into the ring. As they do, Cowboy Lang is about to fire another shirt into the audience when he notices Vader standing across the ring from him. The music has begun to fade.

Nick Bockwinkle, “If I were Cowboy Lang, I would saddle up my steed and make for an expeditious retreat.”

Cowboy suddenly brings the T Shirt Cannon down to his side and side starts acting like a cowboy outside the Saloon getting ready to have a gun duel. Vader just stands at the other end of the ring, snarling. Finally Cowboy “quick draws” the cannon and blasts a T Shirt at Vader, which hits him in the stomach and falls to the mat with seemingly no affect.

Burt Busch, “Aww boy… I don’t know that this is a bull you wanta jump on son.”

Lang gives Vader a sheepish look and drops the T Shirt cannon. However, Vader darts across the ring and before realizes it, SMAAAAAAAAAAAACK! He drives his boot right into the face of the micro-grappler Cowboy Lang.

Burt Busch, “Oh, come on!”

The crowd boos, but Vader is not done. He reaches down, grabbing Cowboy Lang by the belt and waste band of his blue jeans, and with one arm he hoists him up into the air, releases him in the air, catches him, turns and plants him into the mat in a devastating Belly To Belly suplex!

Burt Busch, “UGHHH! He just DROVE Cowboy Lang into the mat! You may need a spatula to get Lang off that canvas!”

Vader is back on his feet as Lang lays there, his arms outstretched and his leg occasionally twitching. But Vader doesn’t appear to be done as he reaches down and drags the midget wrestler over to the corner by his arm.

Burt Busch, “Come on already, he’s had enough! The guy’s not even four feet tall for God’s sake!”

Vader starts climbing up on the ropes and begins bouncing on the middle ropes as Burt Busch pleads, “No… he can’t do this… Surely he WON’T do this?!”

Suddenly we hear the Native American war cry over the PA and the crowd roars as the music hits. Out from behind the curtain…

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Burt Busch, “Tatanka! It’s Tatanka! Oh thank God it’s TATANKA!”

Vader hops down and stands over Lang like a Lion over it’s freshly hunted Gazelle. Tatanka slides into the ring but when he does his music cuts off with the sound of a record scratch, the lights go out and we hear

“The World Is A Vampire…”

“Bullet With Butterfly Wings” by the Smashing Pumpkins begins blasting as the crowd is going wild with a mix of boos, cheers and just overall anticipation.

Burt Busch, “Now what is this?!”

The lights are flashing in shades of Red and for a split moment we get clear enough lighting to see…

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…Darius Cain perched on the aisle side top rope. The lights flash clear again for a split second as we see Darius fly through the air and land a missile dropkick on an unexpecting Tatanka. The crowd is booing as in the flashes of red lights we can see Tatanka come back up only to find himself once again doubled over, his arms hooked, and being hoisted up and slammed face first with the sitout pancake Tiger driver / Chris Daniels Angel Wings.

Burt Busch, “What the Hell is going on?!”

The lights go dark again as we hear another record scratch. Tatanka’s theme picks up where it left off and the lights come up. Tatanka’s theme fades as Tatanka is laying unconscious in the middle of the ring, Vader is looking around with his fists up as Harley Race is looking bewildered on the floor.

Burt Busch, “For the second week in a row this Darius Cain has shown up just to leave Tatanka laying on the mat. What in the World is going on?!”

Vader reaches down, grabs Cowboy lang by the waist band again and picks him up with one hand, his arms and legs dangling.

Burt Busch, “Oh for the love-uh….”

Vader tosses Cowboy ontop of Tatanka so that Cowboy’s back is on Tatanka’s chest and they’re both facing up. He then puts his foot on Lang’s chest essentially “pinning” the pile of bodies as he screams at a bewildered referee in the corner, “COUUUUUNNNNNNT ITTTTT!”

Burt Busch, “Oh give me a break…”

Mark Curtis drops down and counts ………………….ONE………………TWO……………………THREE!

As he does Harley Race screams at the time keeper who sounds the bell. T.C. Martin is by the time keeper getting the business from Harley as well.

T.C. Martin, “Here is your winner… VAAAAAAAAAA-DER!”

Vader’s theme hits the PA as the fans continue to boo. Harley Climbs up and joins his charge in the ring, raising Vader’s arm.

Burt Busch, “Unbelievable. We’re gonna have to get some medical attention out here for Cowboy Lang, and maybe Tatanka too… I can not believe what has gone on here… I’m still not entirely sure exactly what went on there with Tatanka… I don’t know. But folks, while we sort it out, don’t go anywhere…”

We fade from Vader in the ring to a shot of Carlos Cabrera standing backstage outside a door marked “Roddy Piper.” The crowd roars with approval.

Burt Busch, “When we return, we’re gonna hear from the Hot Rod himself, Rowdy Roddy Piper! Plus, more ICWA action as the ICWA World Title Qualifying match ups continue, plus still to come… Our huge main event as Steve Austin goes one on one with Road Warrior Hawk! Don’t miss a thing, we’ll be right back!”

{Cowboy Lang/Vader/Race/Tatanka/Darius Cain Segment Rating: B-}

*Commercial Break*

When we return from commercial Carlos Cabrera is backstage in the same hallway, but this time Roddy Piper is outside with him.

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Carlos Cabrera, “Rowdy Roddy Piper… We have two qualifying match ups to go before the ICWA World Title Tournament is set. One of those match ups will occur in just a few moments when Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart takes on Barry Windham, and the last one will occur this Saturday Night when ICWA Collision debuts as Maniac Mason goes one on one with Hacksaw Jim Duggan! Terry Funk is on the mend, we just saw Vader looking as devastating as ever… So many other great names are in this tournament… What are your thoughts as this tournament continues to progress?”

Roddy Piper, “Well ya knnnooow… Hahaha… Oh, I don’t knnnow. Ya know, Vader looks real impressive tossin’ around a midget in a cowboy hat. He looked even more impressive tossing around Cowboy Lang. HA-HA-Ahhh… I’m just kiddin’ Terry, ya know I love ya man… Get well soon and all that… But Vader’s a real force to be reckon with. He’s a real big man, that Vader is. Everytime he turns around it seems to be his birthday. Ya know the only thing more feared at the Chinese Buffet than a visit from the health inspector is a visit from Vader. He’ll eat every cat in the place and chase it down with a Doberman pincher!”

The crowd seems to dig it but Burt Busch remarks, “Eee… We’re sorry about that folks, you never quite know what you’re going to get when you put a live microphone in front of Roddy Piper.”

Roddy Piper laughs and slaps Carlos on the shoulder just hard enough for it to be awkward as he says, “I’m just kiddin. I love Chinese food. I ate a whole quart of Lo Mein an hour ago -although come to think of it, I’m getting pretty hungry again-. But what I’m really hungry for Carlos is the ICWA World Heavyweight Championship. And I don’t care if it’s all six chins-uh Vader, or Terry or anybody else…”

“You don’t deserve to be world champion!”

Piper and Carlos both turn as the camera adjusts and we see…

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… Jeff Jarrett walking into the scene, looking salty.

Roddy Piper, “Now who the Hell are you there goldy locks?”

Jeff Jarrett, “I’ll tell you just who the Hell I am, I’m Jeff Jarrett! And I’m sick and tired of you fossils taking up what oughta be MY TV time!”

Roddy Piper, “A fossil eh?”

Jeff Jarrett, “You heard me! Now I’ve gotten nothing but disrespected since I walked in the door here, and I’m sick of it! I’m done with it! I could have had a match tonight and made some money, maybe earned my way up the rankings, but instead we had to have time for a sitdown interview with Terry Funk! Instead we had to have time for you to stand outside a dressing room you don’t even need because you’re not wrestlin’, and run your mouth about this stupid tournament!”

Roddy Piper, “Well geez now Jarrett… Let me tell you something… I know your father. I know your whole family. I don’t know what the Hell happened to you Jeff, maybe ya got spoiled. I don’t know and I really don’t care. But if you’re gonna come get in *my* face, you better damn well be ready to do more than run your mouth.”

Jeff Jarrett, “I’m ready… I’m ready to knock that stupid little skirt off your waist and that smirk off your face!”

Piper laughs, “Well ya knowwwww….”

WHAAAAAAAAAAAM! The crowd roars and Carlos leaps back as Piper drives a hard, unexpected right into the head of Jeff Jarrett. The two begin to scuffle as agents and security are much faster to this backstage scene, evidently realizing from the tone it was taking that they might be needed.

Jeff Jarrett as he’s being pulled apart, “Fight me you coward! You fight me next week you coward!”

Piper, “You want me you got me kiddo!”

The crowd cheers as Burt exclaims, “Oh, Roddy Piper and Jeff Jarrett one on one next week!”

Security and such get them further separated as we fade to the ring.

Burt Busch, “How about that? We already know that next week the tag team championships will be on the line as the Steiner Brothers defend against the Miracle Violence Connection, Raven is going to finally go one on one with Doug Gilbert in a Raven’s Rules match up -whatever that means- and now, Rowdy Roddy Piper will also be in one on one action against the new comer, Jeff Jarrett.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Jeff Jarrett has had a difficult time trying to find victory here in the ICWA. I, however, would recommend that challenging such a well versed, experienced competitor in Roddy Piper is not a very prudent strategy to rectifying that success deficit.”

{Piper/Jarrett Segment: C+ Rating}

Match

QUALIFYING MATCH

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

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Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart Vs Barry Windham

Referee: Tim White

Road Agent: Dory Funk Jr

{In a good match, Barry Windham defeated Jim Neidhart in 9:33 by pinfall with a Flying Lariat. C+ Match Rating}

Burt Busch, “Barry Windham is Back folks! And… Hold on a second… It looks like we’ve got company…”

The camera goes from Barry Windham celebrating in the ring to the ringside commentary table where…

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Ken Shamrock is approaching in a tight fitting Gold’s Gym T Shirt and blue jeans. He picks up a headset as Burt and Nick both stand up.

Burt Busch, “Ken Shamrock, welcome to ringside.”

Ken Shamrock, “Burt Busch, Nick Bockwinkle… I keep hearing about all of these matches set to take place next week. Well I’ve spent all night looking high and low and I can’t find a trace of Konnan or Dan Severn. So hopefully they’re watching this wherever it is that they’re laying around, curled up in each others arms.”

Burt Busch, “Whoa…”

Ken Shamrock, “Well, I want to fight BOTH of those guys next week at the same time!”

Burt Busch, “Easy now Kenny… I know how much you want those guys, but two on one?”

Ken Shamrock, “That’s what I want! But I was told I had to a t least TRY to get a tag team partner. So next week, Dan Severn, Konnan…. You two belong to me! And, oh yeah, If somebody out there wants to join me and be my partner, then fine. You can stand on the apron, just don’t get in my way!”

With that Shamrock takes off the headset and drops it on the commentary table.

Burt Busch, “There you have it! Ken Shamrock to take on Dan The Beast Severn and Konnan, and he may or may not have a tag team partner when eh does so. Meanwhile, when we come back, it is finally time for our big main event match up… Steve Austin going one on one with Road Warrior Hawk, and the winner will compete for the ICWA National Heavyweight Title live next week! Don’t go anywhere folks, this one’s coming up… NEXT!”

{Shamrock Segment: C Rating}

*Commercial Break*

Main Event

One On One

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Steve Austin Vs Road Warrior Hawk

Referee: Tommy Young

Road Agent: Rick Steamboat

{In a bout that had superb wrestling and great heat, Steve Austin defeated Road Warrior Hawk in 12:55 by pinfall with a Stun Gun. Match Rating: B}

Burt Busch, “Austin has won, and next week we will see Austin face Cactus Jack for the ICWA National Championship!”

As Tommy Young raises Austin’s hand, Austin snatches it back and begins putting the boots to Hawk till Hawk rolls out of the ring. Finally Austin goes up on the ropes and raises his arms, his theme blasting in the background as the fans boo.

Burt Busch, “Steve Austin is cerntainly making his presence felt here in the ICWA… But can he become the National Champion? We will find out live next week right here on FX, Plus, The Hot Rod Rowdy Roddy Piper is in action with Jeff Jarrett, Raven finally meets Doug Gilbert in a Raven’s Rules match… What is that gonna look like? The Steiners will defend their tag team titles against Gordy and Williams, and the World Title tournament continues. Don’t forget that this Saturday ICWA Collision debuts on FX here in the states and TSN in Canada. Check your local listings for that. Our final ICWA World Title Qualifier will take place on Collision as Hacksaw Jim Duggan meets Maniac Manson, so by the time we get to Demented we will be in the official opening round of this ICWA World Title Tournament. So much going on… Folks, we’ve gotta go… From Anchorage Alaska, I’m Burt Busch… Goodnight Eveyerbody!”

Overall Show Rating: B-

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corporate_icon · July 12, 2020

Talent Relations

A Change In The Landscape

Talent Relations

Written from the perspective of Tim White

It’s been almost two week since our meeting with Nolan Davis, President of FX’s parent company, News Corps, newest division: S.U.E. – Sports and Uncategorized Entertainment - . Nolan, who in his new position has become the man I now report to at News Corp, agreed to allow the ICWA to set up a developmental territory. As such, we now have Pacific Coast Wrestling based out of Los Angeles and it’s being ran by Bill Watts and Rick Bassman.

Nolan also signed off on letting me shop our programing to other broadcasters as long as either News Corps didn’t have a presence in the market, or the News Corp station in the market chose not to carry our shows. We’ve already begun expanding our marketplace as we’re now officially on the air in Ireland and Australia. We have terrible time slots and the broadcasters aren’t huge, but it’s a step in the right direction. I have no illusions about the situation we’re in here with News Corps. ICWA was brought to life to drive traffic to FX and FX Canada. Once it’s done that, somebody is going to raise the question of whether or not we’ve outlived our usefulness. In order for the ICWA to continue to be a thing once that question gets asked, we need to have made a transition from being a tool to aid in FX’s success, to being an independently successful and profitable division of News Corps. I don’t think I’m the only one who realizes that either. Anne Sweeny -and even my friend Mark Sonnenberg- have their careers linked directly to FX. If the ICWA dies tomorrow, as long as there’s something to replace us with to get eyeballs on FX, they’re sitting pretty. Nolan Davis getting assigned as President of the “Sports and Unspecified Entertainment” division of News Corps -a division I’m sure was invented specifically for the ICWA -… Well, our success or failure does have an impact on him and how he’s perceived within News Corps. I think that’s why he was open to allowing us to explore outside networks and investing in a developmental territory. I also think that’s why I’ll win him over on Pay Per View as long as we continue to build success.

In an effort to build that success, I’ve assigned Burt Busch as the head of our talent relations. Burt and I have had several very in-depth conversations about the direction of ICWA and who and what we need to get there, and I just feel like he gets it. I waited to hire him, however, until after I let Nick Bockwinkle know that we’d be making some changes to the announce team. Bruce and I have been at odds about Nick as our color guy for a while. I love him. I think he’s great. But Bruce feels he is too stuffy, and too well spoken. I know how absurd that sounds given the job he has, but Nick told me when I first hired him that he was ready to be off of television and in a role where he could serve as more of a mentor in the lockeroom. At the time, we really needed him as our color guy, but now we’re in a position where we’re better able to fill those types of rolls. So, I’m reassigning Nick Bockwinkle from commentary to a Road Agent roll. This way he’ll be able to do exactly what he originally wanted to do, and mentor talent. I let Nick know that our up coming Demented will be the last one he’ll have to do Color on, and then we’ll transition him backstage. He seemed pleasantly surprised. I didn’t feel the need to let him know about Bruce’s feelings, I just told him I was sticking to our agreement now that we had some other options available for t hat roll.

In his place, we’ve hired Jesse Ventura. I always liked Jesse’s work in New York. I met with Jesse over the weekend and explained what I was looking for. I didn’t want the tie-dye and whatever else. I just wanted a guy in a suit. He seemed okay with that. We’ll see how it goes, he’ll be joining Burt at ringside on the Demented following this up coming episode.

Speaking of talent negotiations, Lex Luger recently came on the market. I guess Eric must have signed him to a very short term deal because Lex just signed with WCW in September. Nevertheless, we had a couple of conversations and talked numbers. In the end, however, he’s elected to resign with WCW. We had a few other talent negotiations that did go our way. One of them was with Rich Landrum, who we’re going to try out as our play by play guy for Collision. Carlos and Larry were doing a fine job, but I already have them doing plenty of backstage mic work. I’m also going to try Captain Lou Albano as the color guy for Collision. He might be a little to 80s for the job, but he’s a friend and he called me personally, so I wanted to at least try it out. Bruce isn’t in love with the idea, but Collision’s a B show so he agrees that if we’re going to give Lou a shot, that’s the show to do it.

We also signed Alundra Blaze from the WWF. Of course we can’t call her that. Prior to the WWF she went by Madusa, and I think that’s what we’ll call her as well. I’m hoping to bring her in and build a half way decent womens division of women who can have half-way believable matches, and look good having them. Originally I had high hopes of Reggie Bennett being my unstoppable monster champion for a while until the right babyface came along who could be the underdog challenger to knock King Kong off the Empire State Building. Sadly, all of Reggie’s matches have absolutely sucked. That’s why I haven’t booked her on TV, I’m going to scrap all of that now and go another direction. If this doesn’t pan out, I may scrap my aspirations of having a women’s division, axe anybody who doesn’t have enough sex appeal to make a thirteen year old boy want to bounce the mattress to their 8x10 and call it a day.

I had another big hiring victory, but I won’t get into that now. From here on out, Burt will handle all of that and I’ll just give a final stamp of yay or neigh.

corporate_icon · July 13, 2020

ICWA Demented: Nov Week 3, 1995 (Episode 007)

As the time strikes 9pm, the now familiar sounds of the ICWA Demented theme song plays us in. Finally, we switch from the video package of ICWA highlights and superstars to a sweeping shot of the crowd in attendance, making sure to make the venue seem larger than it is, and fuller than it is.

Burt Busch, “Welcome once again to ICWA Demented LIVE On FX!”

Suddenly the Demented theme is taken over by the sounds of the snares and the bag pipes…

Burt Busch, “And what a way to open the show…”

Out from behind the curtain in his gear emerges…

Burt Busch, “There he is folks… Rowdy Roddy Piper! Last week he was confronted by Jeff Jarrett, and tonight they go head to head!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “I have a great deal of admiration for the pedigree and the raw potential of Jeff Jarrett, but he may be biting off more than he’s able to chew with the incomparable Roddy Piper.”

Burt Busch, “I think you might be right about that. Folks, we have got a jam-packed night in store. Piper and Jarrett are kicking off a line-up that is perhaps our biggest line-up to date. Tonight, Tully Blanchard will go one on one with Roadwarrior Hawk in the first official round of the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Title tournament. If you missed it this past Saturday night, Jim Duggan and Maniac Manson had the final qualifying match up on the debut episode of ICWA Collision. This week on Collision the DOA will be in tag team competition against a hot new tag team called Sudden Impact. Ron Simmons will go one on one with Jake the Snake Roberts, Barry Windham will be in action and so much more. Make sure to check it out!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Yes, but that’s Saturday. You haven’t even begun to scratch the surface of what’s going on tonight.”

Burt Busch, “No question about that. Ken Shamrock will team up with Tatanka to take on Konnan and former Super Fight champion Dan “The Beast” Severn. Doug Gilbert’s gonna finally get his hands on Raven in a “Raven’s Rules” match -more on that later-, the tag team championships will be on the line as The Steiners defend against the Miracle Violence Connection, AND… Our main event… Steve Austin will go one on one with Cactus Jack for the ICWA National title and folks, joining us for that match up tonight for special guest commentary will be none other than the cowboy from Amarillo himself, Terry Funk!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “It is a big night here in the ICWA.”

Burt Busch, “Absolutely!”

As Jeff Jarrett makes his entrance, Burt and Nick continue to hype the night ahead, and also highlight that Jeff Jarrett seems to have a world of potential but he just hasn’t been able to turn that potential into a tangible path for success since arriving in the ICWA.

Opening Bout

Grudge Match

Rowdy Roddy Piper Vs Jeff Jarrett

Referee: Mickey Jay

Road Agent: Larry Sharpe

{ In a bout that had fantastic heat and great wrestling, Roddy Piper defeated Jeff Jarrett in 8:26 by submission from the Sleeper Submission Hold. B- Match Rating}

Burt Busch, “Oh! And the Hotrod with that expertly applied Sleeper!”

We fade on Piper having his hand raised, his music playing in the background as Jarrett rolls around on the mat coughing and holding his neck.

*Commercial Break*

When we return Larry Matysik is standing backstage with a sweaty Roddy Piper who is toweling off from his previous bout.

Larry, “Hotrod, another win for you here tonight. Next week it’s back to the World Title Tournament as you’re set to take on Hercules Hernandez in the first official round. What are your thoughts heading into that big time tournament match up?”

Roddy, “Well ya knooowww… Ol’ Hercy-Jerky and I have crossed paths a time or two before. I have all the respect in the world for Hercules Hernandez. Really man, I mean it. He’s a big, tough, bad man. Well that’s all well and good, but I’ve fought bigger, I’ve met tougher, and I’m as bad as they come! No retreat, no surrender! No sirie! As a matter of fact…”

Piper pauses and Larry backs up as into the scene walks…

…Steve Austin in his blue jeans and his camo jacket. He’s dragging his gear luggage with him.

Burt Busch, “It looks like Steve Austin has arrived, and he’s walking right through Piper’s interview!”

Austin snickers and says, “G** damn son, you’re taking up the whole hallway.”

Piper, “Aww gee mister Austin Sir, I’m sowwwwrry, Please, allow me…”

Piper steps back and widely motions for Austin to go ahead. Austin narrows his brow, clearly unimpressed with Piper’s sarcasm. Nevertheless he goes on, keeping an eye over his shoulder as he does.

Burt Busch, “Oh man, there’s some tension brewing there.”

Piper is glaring a hole through Austin as Larry awkwardly says, “Uhh Burt… I think we’ll send it back to you and Nick at ringside.”

{Piper/Austin Segment: B Rating}

We fade from Piper’s stare to the ring as our entrances for the next match up begin.

Match Two

ICWA World Heavyweight Title Tournament

Tully Blanchard (w/ Baby Doll) Vs Roadwarrior Hawk

Referee: Dick Worhle

Road Agent: Les Thatcher

{ In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Tully Blanchard defeated Road Warrior Hawk in 10:11 by pinfall with a Slingshot Suplex after Baby Doll interfered. C+ Match Rating}

Burt Busch, “And just like that we have our first entrant into the quarterfinals of the ICWA World’s Heavyweight Title tournament in Tully Blanchard.”

We fade from Baby Doll and Tully celebrating in the ring to the back where Carlos Cabrera is standing by with…

Ken Shamrock in his ring entrance robe and Tatanka in his gear.

Carlos, “Ken Shamrock, last week you challenged Dan Severn and Konnan to a two on one match. Tatanka here stepped up and decided to even the odds…”

Ken Shamrock snickers, “Yeah, Tatanka decided to even the odds…”

Shamrock shifts so he can look at Tatanka and still have the mic in front of him.

Ken Shamrock, “Look Tatanka, I appreciate it. Really, I do. But I’d have been just fine on my own, and if you wanta be out there, you better stay out of my way! Now Severn, Konnan… You two are walking into the Danger Zone, and I’m about to SNAP!”

Carlos, “Tatanka, I know you’ve signed up to join Ken Shamrock in this tag team bout tonight, but I have to imagine your focus is at least partially split between this bout and the man who has attacked you two weeks in a row now in Darius Cain.”

Tatanka, “DARIUS CAIN?! If I get my hands on Darius Cain I’m gonna BEAT HIM from Pillar to Post! I don’t know what this blood suckin’ freak’s problem is, but I’m ready to solve it! Now Ken, don’t you worry about me! I signed up to be your partner because I’ve got a lot of pent up anger and frustration! I’m ready to take that out on somebody and Konnan and Severn seems like as good a somebodies as anybody!”

Tatanka does the battle cry as Shamrock gives a nod of respect and the two punch fists before walking off.

Carlos, “There you have it folks… Ken Shamrock and Tatanka heading off into battle against Konnan and Dan “The Beast” Severn. That one’s coming to you LIVE right here on FX, Next!”

{Shamrock/Tatanka promo Rated: C}

*Commercial Brreak*

When we return we show the Reese’s Rewind which show cases how two weeks ago Shamrock had Konnan in the ankle lock ready to tap out when Dan Severn came in and cracked Shamrock with a chair. We then see the post match attack. Finally we head out of the rewind and into the match entrances where the commentators discuss Ken Shamrock and Dan Severn being Ultimate Fighters and Konnan’s clear frustration since being bounced out of the ICWA Title tournament in the qualifying round. They discuss how Konnan was a huge star in Mexico who was in TV shows and released a CD and was just this megastar, but he hasn’t been able to duplicate that success yet here in the ICWA.

Match Three

Grudge Match

Konnan & Dan “The Beast” Severn Vs Ken Shamrock & Tatanka

Referee: Mark Curtis

Road Agent: Bob Armstrong

Finish: Darius shows up on the aisle, causing Tatanka to bolt away from the match. Which leaves Shamrock in a two on one situation. Shamrock still manages to get Konnan into an Ankle lock, but when he does Severn jumps in, they start beating down Shamrock. Mark Curtis tries to get control, but he finally has to call it a DQ in Shamrock’s favor as Severn and Konnan both continue pummeling Shamrock, neither relenting to the corner.

{ In a decent match, Ken Shamrock and Tatanka defeated Konnan and Dan Severn in 9:53 when Konnan was disqualified while fighting Ken Shamrock. During the match we also had Darius Cain distract Tatanka. In terms of in-ring work, Tatanka was head and shoulders above everyone else. Match Rating: C+}

The crowd boos as Burt Busch says, “Mark Curtis doing what he has to do. Ken Shamrock’s gonna get the Dubbya by disqualification here… And these two are just laying it in the world’s most dangerous man.”

Suddenly the chords of “War Machine” by KISS Begin blasting over the PA.

Konnan and Severn just keep putting the boots to Shamrock as Burt says, “What’s this now?”

Suddenly from behind the curtain…

Being that we’re in New York, a good solid reaction is heard from the crowd.

Burt Busch, “Who in the world is this?!”

The man we all know as Taz powers down the aisle and slides into the ring. Konnan turns just in time for Taz to grab him, and pop back with a TBone Suplex that makes the crowd cheer.

Burt Busch, “Oh!”

Dan Severn turns and notices Taz. He goes to grab him but Taz ducks the grapple, swings behind, hooks the waist and pops back with a release German suplex. Konnan gets back up by the ropes and Taz charges him, sending him through the ropes to the floor with a hard clothesline. Severn has already rolled to the floor and the two join each other on the aisle way floor as “War Machine” by KISS continues playing.

Burt Busch, “I’m being told that this… this… this Suplex Machine…. That they call this human suplex machine, TAZ! And Taz has just put Konnan and Severn on their heels!”

Taz jumps up on the middle of the ropes, one foot on the second rope and one on the bottom as he calls for Konnan and Severn to bring their asses back. Never the less, while Konnan appears to be spitting mad, he and Severn are still both walking backwards up the aisle way.

Burt Busch, “Taz has joined this frey of ultimate fighting / pro wrestling / whatever, and the odds have finally evened up!”

Shamrock has gotten back to his feet as Taz comes down off the ropes. Taz takes a couple steps back and bumps into Shamrock. Taz spins around and he and Taz both push each other back.

Burt Busch, “Oh, then again, maybe not. Now Taz and Shamrock are having words… Well folks, I hate to do it but we’ve gotta take a break. When we come back, Cactus Jack will join me LIVE in the ring to talk about his trip to Japan, his title match tonight and a few other things he wants to address. We’ll be right back!”

{TAZ debut segment rating: C+}

*Commercial Break*

When we return we see…

…Burt Busch standing in the ring with the microphone.

Burt Busch, “Ladies and Gentlemen… I’d like to introduce my guest at this time… He is the ICWA National Heavyweight Champion… Cactus Jack!”

“Symphony of Destruction” by Megadeth begins blasting over the PA as the crowd cheers. Finally the curtain moves aside…

Nick Bockwinkle, “There he is. The ICWA National Champion. He’ll be defending that championship title a little later on tonight against Steve Austin. Of course Cactus Jack has only just recently become the champion himself, having defeated Sabu for the title two weeks ago on this very broadcast.”

Jack makes his way down the aisle firing the finger guns along the way. Finally he gets in and the music begins to fade as he stands in the middle with Burt Busch.

Burt Busch, “Cactus Jack, firstly allow me to welcome you back to the States. I know you were in Japan last week representing the ICWA in an international event taking place. How was that?”

Cactus Jack nods, “It was good Burt. It could have even been great, except that the whole time I was over there I couldn’t help but think of what was going on here. Ya see, there are some things happening in the ICWA that I’m not so happy about. One of those things is that Vader is running around here, hurting people I care about…”

Burt Busch, “Vader has indeed been on a tirade since arriving in the ICWA several weeks ago. It is a possibility that if both you and he are victorious in your next ICWA World Title Tournament bouts, you could end up meeting one another in the quarter finals. That’s quite the bridge to cross to get to the semi finals and perhaps even the finals.”

Cactus Jack, “Yeah, it is. And I don’t want to overlook anybody. I’ve gotta fight Maniac Manson to get there and I’m not going to underestimate him like my friend Jim Duggan did. Plus, Vader would have to beat Scott Steiner, and beating anybody named Steiner is no easy task. So we’ll cross that bridge if we get to it. But if we do get to it, I want Vader to know that aside from our own history, which I won’t get into tonight… Terry Funk is a friend of mine. More than that, he’s a mentor of mine. And watching him get sidelined by Vader… Well frankly, it pisses me off.”

The crowd cheers as Burt Busch says, “Terry Funk will be back in action live next week against Sabu, but even though he hasn’t been medically cleared yet, he will be here tonight in a non-competitive status as he joins Nick Bockwinkle and I at ringside for tonight’s main event. Of course that main event is your National title defense. Cactus, how are you feeling about this title defense here tonight against Steve Austin?”

Cactus Jack, “I feel a little aggravated Burt. You see, I don’t like rewarding a guy for jumping me after I’ve spent fifteen grueling minutes with a top tier competitor like Sabu, by giving him a title match. I watched Demented last week and I appreciated what Road Warrior Hawk had to say about Austin demanding a title shot two minutes after arriving. Now to Austin’s credit, he did beat Hawk and that’s no easy task. And I’m not a guy who backs away from a challenge, so I’m happy to get between these ropes and take out my recent frustrations on Austin.”

Burt Busch, “Cactus, I know you need to continue preparing for your title defense tonight, but do you have any last words for Austin, Vader, or the ICWA in general?”

Cactus Jack, “Terry Funk, I’m glad you’re going to be out here watching tonight. Vader’s a different problem for a different day. And Austin, you wanted me one on one? Well you’ve got me, and I hope you’re prepared for all that that entails. BANG! BANG!”

With that “Symphony of Destruction” by Megadeth restrikes the PA.

{Busch/Jack Interview: C+ Rating}

As That is going on in the ring, we fade backstage where Raven is sitting on a steel chair in a dark corner of the building in his jean shorts, Silver Surfer T Shirt and open black leather jacket. Sitting on the floor between his legs is Lexi York.

Raven, “Doug Gilbert, tonight you leave your world and enter mine. Raven’s Rules are the only rules I’ve ever abided by. You’re the one who started all of this Doug. Well before the ICWA ever existed, you sparked the match that brought us to this point. You think that this has all been about you being entered in the ICWA Tournament, and me being left out? I’ve grown used to being overlooked and dismissed by the decision makers in our sport. I’ll make them take notice, and I will be the ICWA champion soon enough. This isn’t about that. This is about you, and me, and it’s about your family name. All will be revealed soon enough. Tonight is not the end, but merely the beginning of what I have in store for you Doug Gilbert. Quote the Raven, Nevermore.”

Raven puts his arms out in the crucifix pose as we fade to break.

{Raven/Lexi Promo: C+}

*Commercial Break*

As we return and head into the entrances for the next match, Burt Busch and Nick Bockwinkle speculate about what a Raven’s Rules match might be. As the match gets going it’ll become evident that a Raven’s Rules match means there are no rules, at least not that Raven has to abide by.

Match Four

Raven’s Rules

Doug Gilbert (w/ Elizabeth) Vs Raven (W/ Lexi York)

Referee: Scrappy McGowan

Road Agent: Kevin Von Erich

{ In a good match, Raven defeated Doug Gilbert in a Singles match in 9:36 by pinfall with an Evenflow DDT after a distraction from Stevie Richards. During the match we saw Axl Rotten also distract Gilbert. Match Rating: C}

Finish:

Stevie Richards comes down as Doug Gilbert is working on a hot comeback. Richards will stalk Elizabeth, who tries to back away, but bumps into Lexi York who shoves Liz into Stevie. Stevie scoops Liz up over her shoulder like a sack of potatoes as Liz screams and squirms.

Burt Busch, “What in the world… Unhand that woman! Unhand her right now!”

Stevie begins walking back up othe aisle as Doug Gilbert finally hears Liz screaming. He spins around and spots Stevie half way up the aisle with Elizabeth. He darts to the aisle side ropes and baseball slides out of the ring. Stevie darts up the aisle way with the struggling Elizabeth as Doug darts after them. Stevie gets through the curtain. Doug starts to go through the curtain but as he does we see a blue steel chair crash atop of his head making him spin around, stagger several feet back toward the ring and drop to the floor.

Burt Busch, “Doug Gilbert was in hot pursuit but…”

Axl Rotten comes out from behind the curtain holding a chair. He tosses it to the side as Gilbert gets on all fours and starts crawling toward the ring.

Burt Busch, “Axl Rotten cut off Doug Gilbert while he was trying to get to Elizabeth… Now Stevie Richards has absconded with Elizabeth to do God knows what, God knows where. And Doug Gilbert is trying desperately to clear the cobwebs and get back to his feet. At this point, Gilbert’s just running on instinct.”

Doug does start to push himself up. Axl Rotten comes up from behind him and nails him across the back with a hard forearm making him stumble closer to the ring. Doug Gilbert turns around and Axl drives a hard right hand between the eyes of Gilbert making Gilbert stumble back, his back landing against the ring. Axl comes down looking to nail Doug again, but this time Gilbert blocks and drives Axl back with a hard right of his own. Then another. And another.

Burt Busch, “He’s comin’ back!”

Lexi York runs up from behind and grabs two fist fulls of Gilbert’s hair, yanking him back. Doug snaps around breaking Lexi’s grip. Lexi gets wide eyed and starts back peddling.

Burt Busch, “Oh, I think Lexi York just realized she went a step too far!”

Gilbert reaches out and grabs Lexi right by the throat, but he only has her for a moment before Axl Rotten clocks Gilbert across the side of his head. Gilbert hits the side of the ring and instinctively rolls back in. He pushes himself up, turns around and Raven kicks him in the gut and hits the Evenflow DDT on top of a Stop sign that was already in the ring from earlier in the match. 1, 2, 3.

Burt Busch, “Evenflow DDT and Raven has won, but the bigger picture here is, where did Stevie Richards go with Elizabeth?!”

*Commercial Break*

When we return the scene is still and set on the backstage area with a heading of “Moments Ago…”

Burt Busch, “Welcome back… During the commercial break Raven and his flock got out of here while Doug Gilbert was still unconscious from that Evenflow DDT on the metal stop sign. Our cameras picked back up with them backstage…”

The scene begins to play and we see Axl Rotton carrying what appears to be all of the bags for himself, Raven, and Lexi York as Raven and Lexi head to the parking lot with Axl trailing behind. In the parking lot we see a beat up black panel van, The back door draws open and we can see Stevie Richards holding the door open. We can’t see well enough into the van to tell if Elizabeth is in there or not. Raven climbs up in the van, and then Axl lifts Lexi into the van. Axl begins tosses in the Flock’s bags and finally hops in himself as we hear Stevie yell, “Gun it Meanie!” before slamming the door shut. The Van takes off.

Burt Busch, “I can only assume that the Flock has Elizabeth in that van, and they’ve just taken her… well God knows where they’ve taken her.”

As we come back to real time we see Doug Gilbert still in his gear darting toward the back door of the arena. As he does he grabs a security guard and screams, “WHERE’D THEY GO?! WHERE’D THEY GO?!”

Quickly realizing the guard, who is a scrawny little guy who is clearly terrified, isn’t going to be much help, he shoves him away and darts out the door.

Burt Busch, “Well folks… At this point this thing has transcended beyond the realm of professional wrestling, and we may need to get some legal intervention here. I mean we’re talking about kidnapping now.”

Nick Bockwinkle, “I will not begin to try and defend the indefensible. Raven and his flock have crossed a very clear line here, and I think you’re absolutely correct. “

{Doug Gilbert Segment: C+}

During the entrances of the next bout Burt and Nick remind folks of what happened last week when Rick Steiner was in the tournament match up against Buddy Landel, and MVC ran in and cost Steiner the match to avoid having the Steiners too distracted with the world title to defend their tag belts against the MVC.

Match Five

ICWA World Tag Team Championships

Miracle Violence Connection Vs The Steiner Brothers

Referee: Tim White

Road Agent: Dory Funk Jr

{ In a bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Miracle Violence Connection drew with The Steiner Brothers in 11:24 when the match descended into chaos. Match RATING: C+}

Burt Busch, “Despite his best efforts, referee Tim White has completely lost control of this match up, and at this point there’s nothing left to do but throw it out. These four big ol’ alphas may fist fight their way all the way into time square before anybody’s able to reign ‘em in.”

With the Steiners and MVC having basically brawled off camera to the back, we fade to the back hallway where we see Cactus Jack coming down the hallway with his belt.

Burt Busch, “Well folks, when we return Cactus Jack will defend that ICWA National… OH, WHAT IS THIS?!”

All of a sudden from somewhere off camera we see the full weight of…

Vader drive Cactus Jack hard against the concrete wall.

Burt Busch, “Vader has just attacked Cactus Jack!”

Harley Race suddenly comes into the scene, handing Vader a folded steel chair. Vader begins driving the chair down across Jack’s neck, shoulders, back, and side.

Burt Busch, “OH COME ON! SOMEBODY STOP THIS!”

As if on que the hallway suddenly floods with security, referees, and agents. Harley pulls his monster back as Burt Busch exclaims, “What the Hell was this about?!”

Nick Bockwinkle, “Cactus Jack did have some disparaging remarks for Vader earlier on in his interview with you…”

Burt Busch, “Perhaps he did, but it sure as Hell didn’t warrant this reaction! We’re supposed to have a National title match here! I don’t even know if Cactus Jack is gonna be able to stand, much less defend his title! Folks, we’ll figure out what’s going on by the time we return. I promise ya, we’ll have something for ya, one way or the other.”

{Vader attack on Jack Rating: B-}

*Commercial Break

When we return, it’s to the sound of Austin’s theme song hitting the PA.

Burt Busch, “Folks, if you’re just joining us, Cactus Jack was just viciously attacked backstage on his way to the entrance area for this upcoming match up. He was supposed to be defending the ICWA National Championship against Steve Austin, but now I’m not sure what’s going on. Steve Austin is still on his way down, I assume we’ll have a replacement opponent for Austin tonight and we’ll bring you that National title bout as soon as we can. It may not be next week depending on how severe the injuries are to Cactus Jack, but just as soon as Jack is back at a hundred percent we’ll get you the title match you were promised here tonight.”

As Austin takes the ring the music fades and he grabs the mic.

Steve Austin, “Cactus Jack… I realize you just had yourself a little run in with Vader. Maybe the next time you have yourself a little interview with ol’ Burt Busch you’ll watch all the names you’re throwing around. But whatever it is you made Vader do, that don’t concern Steve Austin one damn bit son! What does concern Steve Austin is that you live up to your reputation of a guy who follows through on his commitments. You and I have a title match tonight, and I’ll be damned if I’m gonna get screwed out of my title because you couldn’t keep your mouth shut. So what is it son? Are you a tough son of a bitch like everybody says, or are you a chickens**t whose gonna blow off this match and let all your fans down because Vader gave you a boo-boo?”

“Hooked on an 8 Second Ride” by Chris LeDoux blasts over the PA as the crowd roars.

Burt Busch, “Well that’s not Cactus Jack. That’s…”

Burt Busch, “..Terry Funk! Terry Funk is scheduled to join us tonight for commentary on this match us. He’s still on a medical leave for a jaw injury from Vader a couple of weeks ago…”

Terry Funk climbs up the steps and gets into the ring. He grabs a microphone as his music begins to fade.

Terry Funk, “Austin… I’ve had about enough of you disparaging my friend Cactus Jack.”

Austin snickers, “So what about it? Are you down here to shut me up?”

Terry Funk, “Don’t think I don’t get all warm and fuzzy inside just thinking about that prospect, but no Austin, I’m not here to shut you up. Somebody else is gonna do that, because he *is* one tough son of a bitch! He *is* a man who keeps his commitments. And he *is* one of my best friends in this world, CACTUS JACCCCKKK!”

“Symphony of Destruction” hits the PA as the crowd goes wild. Sure enough, from behind the curtain he emerges…

Burt Busch, “Well there he is. The ICWA National champion, Cactus Jack. And you can tell just by the way he’s walking and the way he’s favoring his side that Vader did a number on him. He almost certainly shouldn’t be competing here tonight.”

Terry Funk sits on the middle rope and lifts the top rope as Jack climbs up onto the apron. Jack comes through the ropes and Terry stands back up. Terry and Jack shake hands and share a hug. However, it’s short lived as Austin darts forward and hammers Funk with a sucker punch that sends him through the ropes to the floor. Jack turns around just in time to get a hard right from Austin as well, as Tommy Young quickly calls for the opening bell.

Main Event

ICWA National Championship

Steve Austin Vs Cactus Jack

Special Guest Commentator: Terry Funk

Referee: Tommy Young

Road Agent: Rick Steamboat

Funk finds his way to the commentary table and explains that he’s fine and he’ll leave Austin to Jack for now.

{ In a superb match, Steve Austin defeated Cactus Jack in 14:10 by pinfall while using the ropes for leverage. Steve Austin wins the ICWA National Heayvweight Championship title. Match Rating: B-}

Burt Busch, “Well, by hook or by crook, Austin has won this thing and become the ICWA National Champion. Still, you have to take your hat off to Cactus Jack. Jack should have never competed in this match up to begin with after that attack from Vader. But he not only competed, he had one Hell of a bout here with Austin.”

Tommy young hands Austin his belt and raises his arm, but Austin snatches his arm back and starts putting the boots to Jack as the crowd boos loudly.

Burt Busch, “Oh come on! You already beat the man and took his title, is this really necessary?!”

Terry Funk, “This isn’t gonna happen!”

Burt Busch, “Wait a minute Terry… Terry, you’re not cleared yet!”

By now we’ve already heard Terry’s headset hit the table. He muscles over to the time keeper and yanks the ring bell away from him.

Burt Busch, “Oh, Funk’s got the ring bell!”

Funk slides in and Austin turns just in time to see Funk coming. Austin darts to the ropes and slides out as Funk lunges and takes a swipe, just missing the new National Champion.

Burt Busch, “We have got a new National Champion, but this thing is far from over! Austin, Funk, and Jack are all going to be at Demented next week, as well as the man they call Vader! Plus, we’ll hopefully have an update on the Elizabeth situation. Roddy Piper will compete in an ICWA World Title Tournament match up against Hercules Hernandez… All of this and so much more, LIVE right here on FX, Next week. From New York City, I’m Burt Busch saying Goodnight Everybody!”

{Funk/Jack/Austin Segment: B}

Overall Show Rating: B-

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