[DOTM]WCW 1998: Too Big To Fail?

Kimberly · September 7, 2020

Monday January Week 1, 1998:

Most people would look at my situation as the calendar turned to 1998 and say I shouldn’t have a care in the world. My company, WCW, was on top. I had just lured one of the biggest names in wrestling from my competition after a rather…dubious situation in Montreal. I still had the most exciting and groundbreaking stable in wrestling history although I would be the first to admit it had strayed a little from what made it great. I had just secured television deals that will make WCW an even stronger international property. So what could I complain about?

How about a corporate structure that was against us whether I lost $1 or made a million? A structure that has already cancelled my planned expansion on television. How about a den of weasels who were looking for any reason to bad mouth me and my employees at every board meeting? And don’t even get me started on Dr. Harvey Schiller - the buttoned up ex military who doesn't understand entertainment. From the outside it looked like WCW was on top of the world but I knew that internally we were being set up; so I had to do something or else World Championship Wrestling would become what we all feared: too big to fail.

(Image credit: This image was found due to a Google search. I manipulated the center logo, but the concept was done by someone else.)

----------------------------------------------------------------

Time for a couple OOC things:

This diary will be a "real time" diary even though I am rebooking WCW from 22 years ago (it's why I chose Labor Day to launch it since Nitro was launched on Labor Day 25 years ago). So what that means is that I will be posting each item on the day that it is happens in game. So, this is the schedule for the diary;

Mondays - Nitro

Thursday's or Fridays - News

Saturday's - WCW Saturday Night (and on some occasions ppv's)

One Sunday a month or so - ppv's

Also, two other things to note. I retconned the finish to Starrcade 1997 and did what the real WCW should've done and had Sting beat Hogan clean. That was done for a storyline that will begin tonight on Nitro. The second thing is that, due to the Ryland calendar, I retconned the night after Starrcade Nitro from Baltimore and instead am saying that tonight's show on Jan Week 1 from the Georgia Dome is the immediate aftermath of Nitro.

I hope you enjoy this diary, please let me know if there is anything I can do differently. And see everyone this evening for Nitro!

Kimberly · September 7, 2020

Roster - October Week 1, 1998

Kimberly · September 8, 2020

WCW Monday Nitro - Episode #120 - The Night After

<div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="r5Snw6g.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/r5Snw6g.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="JT48RSk.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/JT48RSk.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="7ldNadO.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/7ldNadO.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="v5uLMT3.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/v5uLMT3.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="NZewICG.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/NZewICG.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="n4Gq718.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/n4Gq718.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="hF0jMUe.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hF0jMUe.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="fvbycaV.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/fvbycaV.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="UuXfCTR.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/UuXfCTR.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

As the show begins several long black limousines pull up to the arena and after a moment the members of the New World Order begin trickling out and heading to the building. No one is joking or laughing or even talking. Hollywood Hogan is in the front of the line with a deep scowl on his face as they file in.

<div style="color:rgb(26, 26, 26);font-family:Roboto;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;text-align:center;"><div style="font:44px Roboto;">WCW MONDAY NITRO

THE GEORGIA DOME

ATLANTA, GEORGIA</div>

<img alt="wBHGKlN.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/wBHGKlN.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="W4lq9rR.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/W4lq9rR.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Tony and Mike welcome us to WCW Monday Nitro. Not nWo Nitro and this happened because of this man…

<img alt="vaPODr4.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/vaPODr4.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

He introduces Larry Zbyszko who comes out to a thunderous applause. The announcers mock Eric Bischoff and the nWo’s failures last night. They confirm that we have a new World Heavyweight Champion in Sting who made Hollywood Hulk Hogan quit in the middle of the ring. We are told that tonight WCW Commissioner Rowdy Roddy Piper will be here to kick off our second hour with a big announcement. But we go to the ring with our first match of 1998 here on Nitro.

NUMBER ONE CONTENDER FOR WCW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

<img alt="G41H991.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/G41H991.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="RoiHdy4.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/RoiHdy4.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="UO2r8tZ.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/UO2r8tZ.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

<img alt="CqM5BmM.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/CqM5BmM.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="RoiHdy4.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/RoiHdy4.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="n63FMlN.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/n63FMlN.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

CHRIS JERICHO VS JUVENTUD GUERERRA VS REY MYSTERIO JR VS CHAVO GUERERRO JR

The match is fast paced and energetic as all four men show off what they can do in the ring. As Jericho and Mysterio tangle on the outside, it appears that Juventud is primed for a huge victory. He climbs to the top rope with Chavo prone in the middle of the ring but suddenly someone comes running down the aisle.

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

WCW Cruiserweight Champion Eddie Guererro shoves Guererra off the top and he crashes in the ring. The referee doesn’t see it because he’s busy with Mysterio and Jericho. Chavo, who hasn’t seen any of this transpire, gets to his feet and seeing Juventud down, he himself climbs to the top and comes off with a frogsplash. The referee turns in time to see this and counts to three.

WINNER BY PINFALL AND NEW NUMBER ONE CONTENDER: CHAVO GUERERRO JR

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

We’re shown the Castrol GTX Replay which clearly shows Eddie Guererro’s interference in the match and then how Chavo sealed the deal.

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

Mean Gene brings us back from the commercial break with an interview with The Nature Boy Ric Flair in the ring. Flair says that the nWo tried to take him out and tried to keep him from finishing things with Curt Hennig but WCW has assured Flair that he will be cleared to wrestle in nineteen days at Souled Out. Flair thanks Diamond Dallas Page for stepping in last night at Starrcade and he congratulates DDP for winning the United States Heavyweight Championship last night. Flair congratulates Sting for winning the World Title last night. But, Starrcade has come and gone and now The Nature Boy, WOOOOO, will get a piece of Hennig’s ass! At Souled Out, Curt Hennig will walk that aisle and face the greatest wrestler alive, Ric Flair, and he will do it inside the steel cage. Wooooo!

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

We’re shown a small hype video for Goldberg. Will the streak continue? The Man who beat Mongo last night will be in action when Nitro returns!

<img alt="bNYOhmZ.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/bNYOhmZ.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="RoiHdy4.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/RoiHdy4.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="xUR3D8X.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/xUR3D8X.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

GOLDBERG VS BOBBY DUNCUM JR

As soon as the bell rings Duncum charges Goldberg but gets a kick straight in the chest for his trouble. It is speculated something happened during the kick because Goldberg visibly reacted for a second when he took a step and hopped a little. He plows through it however and hits a running clothesline followed by a spear and then the Jackhammer for a convincing victory.

WINNER BY PINFALL: GOLDBERG

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

We go to some still photos and voice over from Starrcade last night where Diamond Dallas Page won the United States Heavyweight Title. When we come back, the new champ is in action live on Nitro!

<img alt="9aPVx9J.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/9aPVx9J.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="ED0HVhz.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/ED0HVhz.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

In a promotional video for WCW Saturday Night promo we learn that Steven Regal will challenge Disco Inferno for the TV Title this week.

<img alt="rCLR0W7.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/rCLR0W7.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

<img alt="hbmnsDN.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hbmnsDN.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="RoiHdy4.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/RoiHdy4.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="VukTRok.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/VukTRok.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

DIAMOND DALLAS PAGE © VS ALEX WRIGHT

Wright puts up a hell of a fight against Page who has to work for everything he gets in the match. Wright begins to put some momentum together near the end of the match and Page looks a little winded but with the Champion at his feet Wright thinks it’s a good time to start dancing. When he turns his back he doesn’t see Page get up and by the time the champion spins him around and hits the Diamond Cutter it’s all too late.

WINNER BY PINFALL AND STILL WCW UNITED STATES CHAMPION: DIAMOND DALLAS PAGE

<img alt="W4lq9rR.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/W4lq9rR.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Just before the 9pm hour, Tony tells us to call our friends because Rowdy Roddy Piper returns to Nitro when we come back!

<img alt="wBHGKlN.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/wBHGKlN.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="W4lq9rR.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/W4lq9rR.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="xDE82Ot.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/xDE82Ot.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Bobby Heenan joins the broadcast booth as the pyro begins again before we hear the sound of bagpipes.

<img alt="HoLFfOQ.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/HoLFfOQ.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="7TBUrjN.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/7TBUrjN.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

[Piper comes down to meet Mean Gene in the ring. Piper announces two things. First, he thanks the fans for being here tonight - 30,000 strong - and says that they will get to come back here one more time in 1998. And that will be at the end of this year. Because WCW will return home to the Georgia Dome for the 15th Anniversary of the Granddaddy of Them All, Starrcade. It will be week 4 December 1998 and it will come from the Georgia Dome. Tickets will be on sale later this summer.

The second announcement isn’t even Hot Rod’s, it belongs to someone that Roddy knows very well. His cousin. The man that helped save Nitro last night. The Excellence of Execution, Bret Hart.

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

Bret comes out to a huge ovation and hugs Roddy Piper. Bret says he is happy to be in this great organization. A company that respects wrestling and respects tradition. And by now we all know how Bret came to WCW, but the why is what’s important here tonight. Because the Hitman could have walked away from professional wrestling. The Hitman never needed to come to WCW. But the reason he did is two fold. Two people. Two people that the Hitman has never fought. Hollywood Hulk Hogan and Sting. Bret Hart has beaten everyone there is to beat, but these two men he has never had the opportunity to fight. And Bret cannot walk away until he has Excellently Executed both the Stinger and Hogan. So, Starrcade 98: the 15th Anniversary is from the Georgia Dome at the end of this year, eh? Perfect. Consider this a challenge…..for you, Sting. Last night you beat Hogan. I am giving you one year to get ready. At Starrcade 98 the Excellence of Execution wants Sting. And Hogan? One day, we’re going to settle this as well. But, Stinger? Champ, if you’re the man I think you are...you’ll say yes and in eleven months, we’re gonna dance in this building. Bret and Roddy hug while Gene hypes the hell out of this. Will Sting answer the call? Nitro is coming right back, don’t you dare go away!

<img alt="n4Gq718.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/n4Gq718.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="v5uLMT3.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/v5uLMT3.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="NZewICG.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/NZewICG.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="RoiHdy4.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/RoiHdy4.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="n37qEE9.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/n37qEE9.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="wkET1EH.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/wkET1EH.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

VICIOUS AND DELICIOUS W/VINCENT VS HARLEM HEAT

A pretty solid match which sees Stevie Ray isolated in the enemy corner for large parts of the match but when Booker gets the hot tag he cleans house. Things are setting up perfect for a Harlem Heat victory when Stevie blind tags himself in. Booker seems confused and as they argue for a moment Scott Norton blasts Stevie in the back, knocking him into Booker who tumbles out of the ring. Norton whips Stevie towards his corner where Buff is already on the second rope. Buf flies off and hits the blockbuster on Stevie and scores the win.

WINNERS BY PINFALL: VICIOUS AND DELICIOUS

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

We go to a black and white nWo paid announcement with Scott Hall. He bad mouths Larry Zbyszko and taunts him about the beating that will be coming his way at Souled Out. He ends it with ‘don’t sing it, bring it!’

<img alt="S8SQE9E.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/S8SQE9E.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

A commercial plays hyping the first pay per view of 1998. It’s WCW/nWo Souled Out sponsored by Snickers. It’ll happen live January Week 3 form The Crown in Cincinnati, Ohio.

<img alt="qRYpDuC.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/qRYpDuC.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="t6SPsjc.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/t6SPsjc.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="rdR3ybd.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/rdR3ybd.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="wke0PMK.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/wke0PMK.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="qhUA2p8.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/qhUA2p8.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Raven and his flock are hanging out in the crowd. When the camera nears he launches into a rambling poetic monologue about how sad life is and how it is filled with pain and soon, Chris Benoit will feel his pain.

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

Mean Gene is at the Nitro set on the stage and calls out Eddie Guerrero. Gene asks him why he helped his nephew win earlier tonight. Eddie says that because it’s all about family and at Souled Out, Chavito will do the right thing. Gene asks what that means but Eddie just smiles and says we’ll see.

<img alt="qZqtFBw.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/qZqtFBw.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="RoiHdy4.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/RoiHdy4.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="kfcu86Y.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/kfcu86Y.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

LEX LUGER VS GREG VALENTINE

Even for his age Valentine has some power and strength but it’s nothing compared to Luger who looks to be in great shape. Luger hits all his normal offense, wearing Valentine out before he puts him in the Torture Rack for a quick submission.

WINNER BY SUBMISSION: LEX LUGER

<img alt="hF0jMUe.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hF0jMUe.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="fvbycaV.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/fvbycaV.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Randy Savage is in the crowd with Elizabeth. He cuts a promo on Bret Hart and says that Hart may want Sting in eleven months, but the Macho Man wants Bret in nineteen days. Randy Savage demands that Bret Hart make his in ring debut at the nWo’s event Souled Out and if he doesn’t, well the Macho Man will just find where that cowardly Canadian is hiding and make him feel the Madness!

<img alt="wBHGKlN.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/wBHGKlN.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="W4lq9rR.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/W4lq9rR.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="xDE82Ot.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/xDE82Ot.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Tony, Mike and Bobby hype what Savage just had to say and tell us to stick around. The main event is next on Nitro!

<img alt="hUpCBH9.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hUpCBH9.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="RoiHdy4.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/RoiHdy4.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="YNfbyR2.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/YNfbyR2.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

The Giant vs Konnan

Before the match begins we catch sight of new WCW Champion Sting up in the rafters above the ring. Konnan knows he has to start fast in the match and he does, attacking the Giant’s legs to weaken him but that only lasts for a few moments before the Giant shoves him halfway across the ring. When Konnan runs in to attack again the Giant hits a huge dropkick. From there the big man is firmly in control and hits a monstrous chokeslam for the win.

WINNER BY PINFALL: THE GIANT

<img alt="7ldNadO.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/7ldNadO.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="v5uLMT3.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/v5uLMT3.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="NZewICG.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/NZewICG.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="n4Gq718.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/n4Gq718.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="hF0jMUe.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hF0jMUe.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="UuXfCTR.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/UuXfCTR.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="G0W0gJE.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/G0W0gJE.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="hbmnsDN.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hbmnsDN.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="hUpCBH9.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hUpCBH9.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

No sooner does the bell ring than most of the nWo hits the ring and begins attacking the Giant. Suddenly DDP runs down with a chair and Sting rapels down with his bat. Together they fend off the nWO until the Giant can recover.

<img alt="r5Snw6g.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/r5Snw6g.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="JT48RSk.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/JT48RSk.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

Hogan and Bischoff come out in the aisle and Hogan stands there watching his people get beat with a disgusted look on his face. He throws his hands up and walks to the back with Bischoff giving chase. As Giant, Sting and Page hold court, the camera follows Hogan. Bischoff is screaming “Hollywood where are you going?”. They go to the parking lot where a limo is waiting. Hogan tells Bischoff “they failed me last night and they failed me again. They’re worthless. I’m done.” Bischoff pleads for him to reconsider, but Hogan gets in the limo. Bischoff jumps in and the limo speeds off into the night as Nitro goes off the air.

<img alt="9s5VjYZ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/9s5VjYZ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

cappyboy · September 8, 2020

Very good title for this. That certainly would have been my understanding of the company at the time. In every wrestling discussion I had in the months and years leading up to the final Nitro, I kept saying I'd have to see WCW fall to believe it could. Sadly I was made to believe.

Dalton · September 8, 2020

Very very very good first show! The Hogan/nWo drama is already intriguing.

The Nickman · September 8, 2020

This is brilliant, although I think you have a few wrestlers missing from your pictures... where is Bret Hart? And where is Kevin Nash?

Kimberly · September 8, 2020

Oooh thanks for the catch. The images went through several tries. Will be updated ASAP!

Kimberly · September 8, 2020

Should be good to go. Thanks again!!

Jaysin · September 8, 2020

Can't wait for more. Very good show.

The Nickman · September 8, 2020

Should be good to go. Thanks again!!

Ahhh yes, much better... great stuff! Excited to see where you go with this.

What mod have you used? Did you convert it yourself??

Kimberly · September 8, 2020

One of the Genaldi 97 Mods and converted to TEW 2020 and fixed the natural errors.

Kimberly · September 10, 2020

Levinux · September 10, 2020

Oh man, Mean Gene has the scoop. Love the authenticity!

EpicCorey · September 10, 2020

that castrol GTX replay gave me a vietnam flashback, wicked start, by chance are you going to run predictions or no?

smw88 · September 10, 2020

Really good start, will be following

Kimberly · September 10, 2020

that castrol GTX replay gave me a vietnam flashback, wicked start, by chance are you going to run predictions or no?

Hahaha glad you liked it. I’m trying to stay true to the authentic WCW presentation.

In the past when I ran predictions they would often be left ignored. It you guys want them, I’ll gladly do them though. Thanks everyone for the support!!

EpicCorey · September 10, 2020

I do love me some predictions I would definitely predict for sure!

LeotheLion · September 10, 2020

Adoring this so far. Keep up the good work!

Kimberly · September 12, 2020

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kimberly · September 12, 2020

Decided to give the predictions a try. Predict away, folks!

EpicCorey · September 13, 2020

Jericho

Guerrero

Malenko (Unless its a dancing contest then its Wright...Those MOVES!)

smw88 · September 13, 2020

savage

eddie

dean

Kimberly · September 15, 2020

WCW Monday Nitro Jan Week 2, 98 - Episode #121–The nWo Unraveling?

A video plays recapping last week’s happenings with the nWo. From their melancholy arrival to the end which saw Hollywood Hogan storm out, telling Eric Bischoff “...they failed me last night and they failed me again. They’re worthless. I’m done.” We then see footage of Bischoff pleading with him to reconsider but Hogan gets in the limo. Bischoff jumps in and the limo speeds off into the night

<div style="color:rgb(26, 26, 26);font-family:Roboto;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;text-align:center;"><div style="font:44px Roboto;">WCW MONDAY NITRO

Jacksonville Coliseum

Jacksonville, FL

</div>

Tony, Larry, and Mike welcome us to WCW Monday Nitro. The announcers hype up the apparent dissention in the nWo. Will the nWo respond tonight? They also recap that Bret Hart challenged Sting last week for Starrcade next December, but also received a challenge of his own by the Macho Man Randy Savage. Savage will be in the main event tonight when he takes on Chris Jericho. Will Bret accept the challenge for Souled Out? A lot to get to tonight on Nitro as Snicker’s Souled Out is only 12 days away, but let’s go to the ring for our opening contest.

ALEX WRIGHT VS DEAN MALENKO

These two actually put on a good match with a high energy pace. Malenko seems to be building to the win when Wright surprises him with a pinpoint standing dropkick. Stunned, Malenko falls victim to a bridged german suplex which gets the three count.

WINNER BY PINFALL: ALEX WRIGHT

Mean Gene is at the Nitro set and does a WCW Hotline promo, he says “please welcome to Jacksonville the Hitman Bret Hart”. Bret comes out to a thundering applause and says that the reason that he challenged Sting last week was for an epic match and to test his skills, but then someone challenged the Hitman. And that is Macho Man Randy Savage. Apparently Savage wants an epic match of his own. Well, the Hitman cannot think of a better way to make his WCW in ring debut than at Snickers Souled Out. And he can think of no one better to excellently execute for the first time than Randy Savage. So, Macho Man? If you want to Snap Into the Excellence of Execution, consider your challenge accepted. See you at Souled Out.

Coming back from commercial we see the sexy Nitro Girls in the ring doing a routine. They leave the ring a few moments later to the crowd’s cheers.

CHRIS BENOIT VS DAVE TAYLOR

Benoit takes an early beating from the very sound and mean spirited Brit but the Crippler fights back and lights up Taylor with stiff chops and chops him down to size. Benoit hits the diving headbutt off the top but instead of a pin he puts Taylor in the Crippler Crossface which gets the tap out.

WINNER BY SUBMISSION: CHRIS BENOIT

Benoit barely has a moment to celebrate his win when he’s swarmed by the Nest. Raven watches from the crowd enjoying the attack. The crowd roars suddenly when Mongo runs down.

McMichael and Benoit clean house and the Nest flees into the crowd. Mongo and Benoit share a quick hug as the crowd cheers.

Snickers presents WCW/nWo Souled Out commercial as we come back from break. Souled Out is 12 days away, Saturday Week 3, January 1998 from the Sold Out Crown Arena in Cincinnati, Ohio and is live only on pay per view.

NON TITLE MATCH

THE STEINER BROTHERS VS MORTIS AND WRATH W/JAMES VANDENBERG

Announcers tell us that at Snickers Souled Out, the Steiner Brothers will defend their WCW Tag Team Titles against Vicious and Delicious. The Steiners handle their opponents pretty easily. The finish of the match shows Buff and Scott Norton coming out to ringside as Scotty lifts Mortis up onto his shoulders and points at Buff and Norton when Rick sails off for the bulldog. Scotty stands guard but the nWo members don’t make a move.

WINNERS BY PINFALL: THE STEINER BROTHERS

Vicious and Delicious tease going to the ring but back off saying they will see the Steiners in twelve days.

We go back to the announce booth where they are about to do the handover to hour two when there is a commotion in the crowd. Scott Hall has made his way down through the crowd and hops the barricade near the announce booth.

Larry takes off his headset as Tony and Mike plead with Larry to leave it until Souled Out. When Scott approaches Larry meets Hall with punches and the fight is on. They brawl up toward the barricade as WCW officials and officers rush to try break the fight up. The fight between Hall and Zbyszko continues as Tony tells the producer to go to commercial and bring us back for hour two.

Hour two kicks off with officials finally separating Larry and Hall and dragging Larry away while he shouts “I’ll kill you”. nWo music suddenly sounds as Kevin Nash comes out to the stage followed by the entire nWo minus Hollywood Hogan.

Hall joins his buddy and they do the Wolfpac sign as they make their way down to the ring. Nash grabs the microphone and says that the reason he was not able to fight The Giant at Starrcade is because Kevin spent the night before Starrcade and the day of Starrcade in a hospital. All is good with Big Sexy, but it forced Nash to miss his match with Giant. Oh, and Giant? That match is still on, we’re just going to do it in Dayton at Souled Out.

Nash says he got home from the hospital last Monday and turns on Nitro and what does he see? Hogan throwing a bitch fit and claiming the nWo let Hogan down. Nash calls Bischoff over and says I want you to tell something directly to Hogan. The nWo is not Hulk Hogan. It never was. The nWo is me, Scott and kid who will be back very soon by the way. That is the foundation of this group. It was us up in New York dying to get out of that cesspool to come down here and try to right this industry. And then you and Hogan decided to hop on board and suddenly it was all about Hulk Hogan. Well, that ends now.

The nWo was never Hogan’s, it was never yours Bischoff and it never will be. We used you and now we don’t need you. Go fly down to Tampa and tell “Hollywood” that he is no longer needed in the nWo – and that goes double for you Eric. Bischoff tries to talk him out of it but Savage throws Bischoff out of the ring. Bischoff walks away looking dejected.

Nash turns and faces the remainder of the group and says that since someone needs to be a “leader”, Big Sexy will get the job done. And that means he and Scott and Syxxx Pace when he returns, are going to remake the nWo in their image. In the image of the Wolfpac. And everyone here in this ring has to prove their worth now. The nWo is going to thin the herd and the best way to do that is a little test at Souled Out. Whomever loses their matches in 12 days is out of the nWo. We’re going to refocus, rebuild and then make WCW pay because one way or the other the “good ol’ boy network” in this business is going to die. Nash throws his fists in the air while everyone else seems to be surprised.

A graphic tells us that Eddie Guerrero defends the Cruiserweight Championship when Monday Nitro returns from Jacksonville.

Coming back from commercial we see the Nitro Girls on the stage. This time Sharmell is focused on with a solo dance routine.

Tony, Mike and Bobby officially welcome us to hour two and talk about the firing of Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff from the New World Order. They take us to footage “during the commercial break” where Nash walks up the aisle with everyone following behind him.

Scott stops Nash just before they go backstage at the set and the camera catches him saying “Big Kev, if everyone in the nWo has to win their matches at Souled Out...that includes you.” Nash looks taken back but shrugs and high fives Hall and they walk to the back.

Eddie is in rare form in this one and completely dominates the match. Calo barely gets in any offense in, though he does botch a hurricanrana almost dropping Guererro on his head. After that the match is quickly wrapped up with a frogsplash from Guererro to retain his title.

WINNER BY PINFALL AND STILL WCW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION: EDDIE GUERERRO

After the match Mean Gene catches Eddie in the aisle and asks him why he interfered last week to allow his nephew to win the match and become the #1 contender for the Cruiserweight title at Souled Out. Eddie says he was just looking out for La Famila, congratulates his little nephew for the breakthrough opportunity and reminds Chavo that family protects family and to remember that at Souled Out. Eddie smirks and walks off.

A video of Raven shown walking in the alley near the Jacksonville Coliseum airs. Raven says that Benoit and Mongo may have ran his nest out of Nitro, but Dayton will be their new home. Raven challenges Chris Benoit & Mongo to pass the test and face Kidman & Riggs and Raven then turns his attention to Diamond Dallas Page and says that Raven’s assassin is Saturn and at Souled Out, Saturn’s job is to bring the Nest its treasured gold. Souled Out may be all about WCW and the nWo but it is the Nest that will reap the souls of Benoit, Mongo and Page and feast on their anguish.Quote the Raven...Nevermore.

Mean Gene is with Curt Hennig at the Nitro set as we return from commercial break and asks Hennig about the ultimatum that Nash put out there. Hennig says he does not care about the ultimatum because he is not worried about losing. Ric Flair was a dinosaur ten years ago and now he is just a broken, sad, pathetic old man hanging onto the glory days. At Souled Out inside a Steel Cage, Hennig ends the legacy of Ric Flair and then he helps the nWo take out WCW. Now watch this clinic I am about to show. Hennig walks down to the ring to meet Ultimo Dragon

CURT HENNIG VS ULTIMO DRAGON

True to his promise this is a terrific showcase of the skills of Hennig who is able to ground Dragon from his aerial prowess and after a good back and forth match, Hennig shows a masterclass of technical holds before nailing the HennigPlex for the 3 count.

WINNER BY PINFALL: CURT HENNIG

Hennig starts slapping Ultimo Dragon when Ric Flair bursts down the aisle like he was shot out of a cannon. Hennig doesn’t see him as Flair blasts Curt from behind. Naitch goes for Hennig’s eye but Curt is able to drag to the ropes and drag himself out of the ring.

As Hennig runs back up the aisle with Flair giving chase as Nitro goes to commercial with a graphic that Macho Man vs Chris Jericho is our featured contest on Nitro and it is next.

Nitro returns with a special look at WCW World Heavyweight Champion Sting whose first title defense is scheduled to be at SuperBrawl VIII from the Cow Palace in San Francisco next month. The video focuses on Sting as the silent protector and when it ends, we see search the rafters to see if Sting is there but the champ doesn’t appear to be around.

RANDY SAVAGE W/ELIZABETH VS CHRIS JERICHO

This is an excellent match with both men showing what they can do and even at his age Savage is firing on all cylinders. Jericho goes for a Lionsault but Savage brings the knees up. He then hits some of his usual moves and ends the match with the big elbow off the top.

WINNER BY PINFALL: RANDY SAVAGE

After the bell, the Macho Man goes bezerk and isn’t done with Jericho. He gets on a mic and says “Hitman this is for you” and grabs a ring bell and goes back into the ring and blasts Jericho in the head with it. Savage starts wailing away at Jericho when Bret Hart runs down from the back.

Bret and Savage get into a brawl that ends with Savage bailing from the ring and Bret checking on Jericho.

Tony Schiavone suddenly yells “something is going down in the back” and we cut to a camera racing up the hallway backstage to the parking lot where a commotion of people are crowded around someone. We see a figure down on the ground and people screaming for help. The camera zooms in and we see that it is Lex Luger down face first. It is obvious that someone has beaten the hell out of him. Medical personnel tell him to hold on as an ambulance wails in the distance as Nitro goes off the air.

EpicCorey · September 16, 2020

Amazing show Kimberly its like I am right there watchin, Thank God Hogan is out of the NWO

Kimberly · September 17, 2020

Sign In

[DOTM]WCW 1998: Too Big To Fail?

Recommended Posts

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Top Posters In This Topic

Popular Days

Top Posters In This Topic

Popular Days

Popular Posts

sonny912

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Join the conversation