WCW: The one where Russian oligarch bought the company

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #23

 

Last Week: Ken Shamrock made his WCW in-ring debut and won against Chris Kanyon. In 6 days, he will challenge Goldberg for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. (74)

WCW Monday Nitro starts with Mike Tenay as the only commentator at the table.

Tonight - Chavo Guerrero, Chris Kanyon and Vampiro vs Booker T, Diamond Dallas Page and Sting. (67)

Tonight - Contract signing for a Halloween Havoc match between WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg and former UFC champion Ken Shamrock. (77)

WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes opens the show with a special announcement. introduces a new commentator for WCW Monday Nitro... JERRY 'THE KING' LAWLER! (67)

Match 1: Jamie Noble (w/ Marty Jannetty) and Air Raid (AJ Styles and Air Paris) (w/ Torrie Wilson) vs Rey Mysterio, Juventud Guerrera and Kid Kash. In a cool 6-man cruiserweight action Noble catches Juventud on the Jumping Tombstone for the win. (8:52) (67)

Match 2, 1/4 Finals of $100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational: Elix Skipper vs mystery participant. Skipper’s opponent is… TAJIRI! Elix was good, but Tajiri just couldn’t lose in his debut match. Tajiri won after Buzzsaw Kick. (4:36) (63)

Match 3, 1/4 Finals of $100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational: Billy Kidman vs Chris Hero (w/ Claudio Castagnoli and Kevin Nash). Yes, we have a mistake in tournament graphics: there is Castagnoli instead of Hero. I know. It's still WCW, what do you expect from us?... Anyway, to enter the main bracket of the tournament, Hero defeated Lance Storm with the help of his friends. Now he goes against Storm's partner. The wrestlers put on a good show with Kidman taking the lead towards the end. Kidman goes for a Shooting Star Press. Nash and Castagnoli has no other options, but to intervene, resulting in a DQ. (5:42) (66) After the match, The Band attacks Kidman, but Lance Storm with a chair comes to his rescue. (48)

Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Steve Corino and CW Anderson arrive at the arena in a luxurious limo. (62)

Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Steve Corino and CW Anderson in-ring promo. Flair does the talking. “Maybe one day, we can call ourselves the Four Horsemen. But for now we have more short-term goal. I trust this young guy, Steve Corino, as we will be the next WCW World Tag Team Champions in 6 days. That's something that will be on your resume for the rest of your life, buddy! WHOOOOOOO!" (69)

Match 4: Steve Corino (w/ Ric Flair, Arn Anderson and CW Anderson) vs Sean O’Haire (w/ Chuck Palumbo). Commentators call O'Haire one of WCW's most promising superstars and recall that O'Hair and Palambo have held their titles since January 14, 2001 (with a short break for a week) - for 9 months already. Corino actively plays dirty. O'Haire accidentally knocks the ref down, and a brawl begins between all the competitors outside the ring. During the fight, a chair ends up in the ring. Corino attempts to grab it, but Ric Flair takes it first to hit his attacker Palambo. As a result, Corino is left in the ring with nothing, turns around, and receives a Reverse DVD from O'Haire. 1...2...3. (5:33) (69) 

WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg arrives at the building. (78)

Match 5: Dark Society (Shannon Moore and Christopher Daniels) vs Havana Pitbulls (Ricky Reyes and Rocky Romero). Rematch from Fall Brawl. Moore and Daniels dominated, but Daniels' mistake at the end, missing with the Best Moonsault Ever, resulted in Reyes and Romero knocking him out of the ring with a Double Superkick, then performing a Cuban Missile Crisis on Moore to win. (8:33) (68)

Ken Shamrock arrives and got caught by Gene Okerlund for an interview. ”UFC has taught me that signing a contract can be a powerful psychological weapon. So I to use it today to my advantage." (66)

Match 6: Chavo Guerrero, Chris Kanyon and Vampiro vs Booker T, Diamond Dallas Page and Sting. Each contestant receives an equal amount of time. Sting kicks Vampiro out of the ring, and in the ring, Booker T performs Bookend on Chavo to make a pin for three. (15:40) (74)

WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes welcomes us to the contract signing for a main event at Halloween Havoc. Ken Shamrock is here first. “I can guarantee Goldberg that he's never been in the ring with a fighter as dangerous as me before. At Halloween Havoc, Goldberg won't be in the ring; Goldberg will be in the Shamrock zone, where there will be a lot of pain and suffering." Ken Shamrock signs the contract. Now it's time for the WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg. Dusty hands the microphone to him and offers him a chance to speak, but Goldberg pays no attention. He silently signs the contract and tosses it to Rhodes. Goldberg and Shamrock face off, and their match is only 6 days away! (88)

Overall: 73

================================================

WCW Halloween Havoc 2001
Final Card

1/2 Finals of $100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational 
Alex Wright vs CM Punk

1/2 Finals of $100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational 1/2 Finals
Billy Kidman vs Tajiri

$100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational Final
??? vs ???

WCW Cruiserweight Championship
Jamie Noble (w/ Marty Jannetty) vs Kid Kash

WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship
Air Raid (w/ Torrie Wilson) vs Rey Misterio and Juventud Guerrera

"The Band is banned from the ringside" Match
Lance Storm vs Kevin Nash

Full Mayhem Match
Dark Society vs Sting and Havana Pitbulls

WCW World Tag Team Championship
Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire vs "Nature Boy" Ric Flair and "Old School" Steve Corino

Falls Count Anywhere
Diadmond Dallas Page vs Chris Kanyon

WCW United States Championship
Chavo Guerrero vs Booker T

WCW World Heavyweight Championship
Goldberg vs "The World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock

[DHK1989]

CM Punk

Billy Kidman

CM Punk

Jamie Noble

Air Raid

Kevin Nash

Dark Society

"Nature Boy" Ric Flair and "Old School" Steve Corino

Diadmond Dallas Page

Booker T

Goldberg

[Dimos]

WCW Halloween Havoc 2001

 

We have an opening video that puts a lot of attention on our main event. A few weeks ago, WCW President Eric Bischoff stepped down from full management, entrusting the wrestling part to the famous Dusty Rhodes, the new WCW Commissioner. One of Dusty's first decisions was to bring former UFC champion "The World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock to WCW. Tonight at WCW Halloween Havoc, Ken Shamrock will fight Goldberg for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. (74)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcome us at Halloween Havoc 2001 from MGM Grand Arena in Paradise, Nevada.

Match 1, Semifinals for $100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational: Billy Kidman vs Tajiri. Famous ECW wrestler Tajiri made his WCW debut just a week ago, takig a spot in the tournament, which is designed to help young talents. Kidman, who has not had the best win-loss stats in the new WCW, sees this tournament as a great opportunity to get back in the fold. However, the match doesn't go as expected due to a total incompatibility of styles between the wrestlers. Despite this, Kidman manages to defeat Tajiri with a Facebuster and a Shooting Star Press. (8:44) (51)

Backstage, Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Steve Corino, and CW Anderson arrive in a cool limousine. Flair suggests they quickly win WCW World Tag Team Championship, then they can head to a party where luxurious girls are already waiting for them. (54)

Match 2, Semifinals for $100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational: Alex Wright vs CM Punk. Wright is determined to deal with the upstart CM Punk quickly, but it doesn't turn out to be that easy. Even though Wright is more experienced, Punk avoids the German Suplex and forces Wright to tap out with an Anaconda Vice. (7:30) (59)

WCW Cruiserweight Champion Jamie Noble backstage interview. Tony Schiavone asks him about the match. Noble stated that he didn't care about the match and would like to talk about other things. He respected Marty Jannetty, who was supposed to be in his corner that day, but it's time to tell the truth: Marty had been drinking and brawling instead of respecting others since he joined WCW. He is not even here tonight. Noble doesn't want to end like him. Tonight he is determined to beat Kid Kash and show everybody what true cruiserweight champion should look like. It sounded like a real shoot… (44)

Match 3, WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Noble vs Kid Kash. It was a first match tonight with a proper crowd reaction. Kash jumps from the top rope, but Noble kicks him with a dropkick - and accidentally hits him in the groin. Jumping Tombstone, three counts and Noble retains the title. Although after the match Kash claims he got a low blow, with Noble trying to justify that it was unintentional. Some controversy here, but Jamie Noble remains the WCW Cruiserweight Champion. (14:02) (69)

Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera backstage interview. Rey found Juventud in Mexico and believed that a wrestler of his caliber should be in the best league in the world, WCW. Yes, Juventud wasn't the easiest person to work with before, but right now they are determined to become WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions. (41)

Backstage, Air Raid are preparing for the match. AJ Styles is distracted by a few girls wanting autographs from him. (40)

Match 4, WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship: Air Raid (AJ Styles and Air Paris) (w/ Torrie Wilson) vs Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera. It was an excellent match up until a minor injury to Air Paris occurred due to Juventud's botch. Paris and Styles took Rey down with a Double Superkick. Styles goes for a Spiral Tap, but misses. Juvi Driver for AJ... and three counts. We have the NEW WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions! (13:50) (71)

CM Punk backstage interview. "Most wrestlers backstage are drinking, injecting, or taking drugs. Straight-edge lifestyle gives me the edge over them. So it would be easy for me to win tonight and dominate in WCW after that”. (58)

Match 5, $100,000 Dusty Invitational Final: Billy Kidman vs CM Punk. The fans didn't react that well to CM Punk, but he made them pay attention with a few moves. Punk kicked out from a pinfall after Kid Krusher. Kidman did the same after Pepsi Plunge. Punk goes for an Anaconda Vice, Kidman rolls him up into a pinfall, but Punk turns this into a roll-up of his own and grabs Billy's tights. 1-2-3! (12:47) (64) After the match, CM Punk gets his hand raised as the winner, and Kidman is frustrated about the lose, but looks at his young opponent with respect.

Backstage, Kevin Nash prepares for his match against Lance Storm. Nash leaves his partners, Claudio Castagnoli and Chris Hero, as they are banned from the ringside for the next match. 

Lance Storm backstage interview. “Nash can do nothing without his partners, so I'm gonna set the record straight with him tonight.” (73)

Match 6: Lance Storm vs Kevin Nash. Not a bad match, and we should thank Lance Storm for that because Nash just wasn't interested. He walked around and didn't even do a lot of damage. Nash tries for Jackknife Powerbomb, Storm blocks it and accidentally hits the referee. Facebuster on Nash. Storm goes for the top rope maneuver... some guy in a cap attacks him! Superplex! Wait... it's... CHRIS CANDIDO! Candido runs away, and Nash finishes Storm with the Jackknife Powerbomb to win. (10:54) (76)

Focused Ken Shamrock arrives at the building. 

Dark Society backstage interview. "What is Full Mayhem Match? It's a steel cage. Steel chains. And readiness to kill your opponent if you want to win.” (54)

Sting and Havana Pitbulls backstage interview with Gene Okerlund. Sting praises Pitbulls as a very promising young WCW team. He's happy to be in the same ring and in the same cage with them today. (50)

Match 7, Full Mayhem Match: Sting and Havana Pitbulls (Ricky Reyes and Rocky Romero) vs The Dark Society (Vampiro, Shannon Moore and Christopher Daniels). .It was a bloody brawl, but honestly, the match didn't went so good. Sting looked confused as it wasn't his style at all. On the other hand, the cruiserweights didn't manage to show their full arsenal in those conditions either. Vampiro and his Society managed to chain Sting to the cage wall, and then Ricky Reyes got Angel Wings on the chair to lose. (14:51) (49)

Now it's time to arrive for WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg. (74)

Match 8, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chuck Palumbo and Sean O’Haire vs Ric Flair and Steve Corino (w/ Arn Anderson and CW Anderson). The match was much worse than expected. There was an obvious miscommunication between Flair and Corino. Althrough Arn Anderson tried to bring them to the same page. And CW Anderson's interference with a spinebuster at the ringside on Chuck Palumbo brought an advantage to the contenders. But Corino accidentally knocked Flair down and got Reverse DDT from O'Haire. Sean makes a pinfall for three. (13:16) (62)

Chris Kanyon backstage interview. "Rules are on my side tonight as there is no count outs, DQs and other shenanigans. In fair match DDP has no chances with me. I’m gonna retire him”. (67)

The video highlights of the feud between Diamond Dallas Page and Chris Kanyon. (75)

Match 9, Falls Count Anywhere: Diamond Dallas Page vs Chris Kanyon. Both wrestlers made extensive use of the entire ringside space with all the weapons they could find. After several nearfalls Kanyon counters Diamond Cutter into a Flatliner on the chair and pins for three. (14:03) (76)

The video highlights of the feud between Booker T and Chavo Guerrero. (65)

Match 10, WCW United States Championship: Chavo Guerrero (w/ L.A.X.) vs Booker T. Homicide and Hernandez tried to interfere, but the referee removed them from the arena. While Chavo was complaining, Booker hit him with the Harlem Side Kick for two and took the advantage after that. Chavo goes for Gory Bomb, Booker counters into the Bookend. 1... 2... NO! Booker T picks the champion up, but Chavo performs jawbreaker and piledriver! Only for two. Frog Splash... missed! Booker T immediately goes for a Harlem Sidekick, but misses and takes down the referee. Booker T does Axe Kick, but there is no one to count. Booker tries to wake the referee up... low blow from Chavo! Brainbuster and pin with feet on the rope for three. (14:59) (73)

The video highlights of the events that led up to Goldberg and Ken Shamrock's match for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. (78)

Match 11, WCW World Heavyweight Championship: Goldberg vs Ken Shamrock. Before the match, the wrestlers were announced in the best traditions of boxing or MMA. The wrestlers started the match slowly, as if studying each other. Each of them knows how dangerous their opponent is. Shamrock consistently breaks from three move attempts of Goldberg, kicking the champion out of the ring every time. Goldberg regroups. Shamrock goes for an Ankle Lock, but Goldberg counters into Cross Armbreaker. Shamrock managed to reach the ropes. Ken fights back with a dropkick, snap suplex and belly-to-belly suplex, but only for two. Hurricanrana from Shamrock! That was cool. But only for two again. Both are pretty exhausted. Goldberg goes for a Spear... and misses. Shamrock immediately takes him down with a German suplex and goes for an Ankle Lock... Goldberg is too close to the ropes, so he grabs it and dodges a dangerous hold. Spear out of nowhere! 1...2... NO! Goldberg goes for a Jackhammer, but Shamrock jumps on his feet behind the champion... rolls him up... into the Ankle Lock in the center of the ring! Long struggle for the champion. He almost reaches the ropes... but Shamrock pulls him back to the center. Somehow the champion rolls Shamrock up into the Cross Armbreaker... and then puts him into Ankle Lock, causing Ken to experience his own pain. After the long struggle, Shamrock rolls Goldberg up into the pinfall, but only for two. Both got up on their feet. Spear from the champion! Jackhammer! Pinfall... 1... 2... 2,5... Shamrock puts his foot on the rope... 3! Wait, the referee didn't see it? (15:40) (71)

After the match, despite the controversy Goldberg was declared the winner and still WCW World Heavyweight Champion. the commentators praise Goldberg for his victory while debating whether Ken's foot was on the rope before or after the referee counted to 3. Ken is too exhausted to argue. Goldberg received the championship belt as the WCW Halloween Havoc event came to an end.

Overall: 68

=====================================

 

Memo 007: The worst PPV of the new WCW

Cool.

The event I planned to be awesome was a flake. Absolutely the worst show of the new era. All the matches I counted on to perform great were average at best. Mostly they were just awful.

Plus:

* Kevin Nash's conduct at work was a disaster. Nash has been unhappy for a while. I told about his brawls, pranks and missed appointments before. Now he failed to attend a meeting with the road agent who was supposed to prepare him for his match with Lance Storm. When he was fined for it, Nash became even angrier and decided to spoil his match. At one point, Nash's botch could have resulted in a serious injury to Lance. After the match, Arn Anderson and half of the locker room calmed Storm down, who was going to kick Nash’s butt. (Not my order, I would let Lance do it, honestly.)

* Juventud Guerrera's shitty attitude and bad performance resulted in a muscle sprain for Air Paris. However, Paris' injury was not severe enough to cause him to miss the Monday Nitro tapes, he will just need to take some time off. And maybe protect himself more in next couple of matches.

* Marty Jannetty was once again unable to make it to the show due to alcohol poisoning. Good ratio: he missed half of his booked appearences. Or showed up for the half. Depends how to look at it (glass half-full?). As a result, his entire plot where he becomes Jamie Noble's mentor was canceled. This plot was already struggling due to Marty's behavior. I prepared on the spot a shoot promo for Noble at Halloween Havoc. And I fired Marty Jannetty next.

* Sean O'Haire performed at the PPV with a neck injury he suffered a few weeks ago. The injury affected the quality of his match, but doctors report that the injury has healed and Sean can return to more active performances. Good news, but tag team match at PPV sucked. 

* Chris Candido won't be able to perform fully until seven days later due to commitments to other companies. This means he won't be present for at least the next Monday Nitro.

Fall Brawl was great.

Halloween Havoc sucked big time.

What about our next PPV, WCW Mayhem?..

And more importantly...

What about Starrcade?

Edited April 12, 2023 by Dimos

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #24

 

Last Night: Goldberg secured controversial win against former UFC champion Ken Shamrock and retained WCW World Heavyweight Championship. (76)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcomes us to WCW Monday Nitro from Bren Events Center, Irvine, CA. (71)

WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes opens the show discussing who should be the next challenger for WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg. Because according to win-loss statistics there are a few people with an equal chance. These include... (67) ... However, he is interrupted by Ken Shamrock, who argues that if Dusty watched the previous night's match, Goldberg's win cannot be considered a sure thing. In the UFC, it would cause doubt and controversy. WCW cannot afford to have a questionable world champion, especially not in these times. Shamrock demands a rematch with Goldberg for the title. Goldberg-Shamrock II. (79) Dusty is about to respond but does not have time...

... because Diamond Dallas Page enters the arena. DDP mentions that he has always believed that if you lose, you lose. And crying says something about Shamrock. He suggests that Shamrock should give way to other contenders like... DDP! (64) ....

.... Chris Kanyon is here! "I deserve a title match more than anyone else since I have never won one before, despite dominating WCW for a long time. And considering that I won over Page at at Halloween Havoc..." (74) ... Before Dusty responds, Sting is here too! He make his own claim for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. (54) Dusty Rhodes calms everyone down and acknowledges that they are all deserving of a title shot in their own way. That's why next week there will be a fatal-4-way match between all of them. The winner will face Goldberg for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship at WCW Mayhem. And tonight they will have a chance to get a closer look at each other in a tag team match: Sting and Diamond Dallas Paige vs. Chris Kanyon and Ken Shamrock. (68)

The video highlights of Tajiri's career. (26)

Match 1: Tajiri and TAKA Michinoku vs Jung Dragons (Kaz Hayashi and Yang). TAKA and Tajiri, two experienced Japanese wrestlers, decided to try their hand in the tag team division after some setbacks in the $100,00 Dusty Rhodes Invitational. And they did quite well. Their first opponents were the Jung Dragons, who had been performing as a team for quite some time. Tajiri dodges moonsault from Yang, and TAKA catches him with the Michinoku Driver. Kaz Hayashi tries to save the partner, but Tajiri stops him with the Buzzsaw Kick. TAKA and Tajiri wins. (7:49) (62)

Last Night: CM Punk wins the $100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational, defeating Billy Kidman in the finals. (43)

Backstage, Billy Kidman congratulates CM Punk on his win last night. "You remind me of me during my early months in WCW". CM Punk points out that Kidman drinks Coke during the conversation, which is full of chemicals and sugar. "This is what makes Americans fat and unable to move. Don't even breathe that sugary drink in my direction". (43)

The Band in-ring promo. Kevin Nash speaks: "I have nothing to do with what happened during my match with Lance Storm. I always play by the rules. I clearly followed them yesterday as Claudio Castagnoli and Chris Hero didn't interfere in the match. And I can't be responsible for every crazy fan who gets in the ring". Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler point out that it's bunch of lies as everyone saw that it wasn't a random fan, but former WCW Cruiserweight Champion Chris Candido. (46)

Match 2: Claudio Castagnoli (w/ Kevin Nash and Chris Hero) vs Alex Wright. Nash joins the commentators and continies to justify himself. He suggests that WCW management should consider improving security during matches. In the match Hero grabs Wright's leg as he climbed on the top-rope, allowing Claudio Castagnoli to execute the Superplex and the Neutralizer for the win. (7:01) (54) Post match, Lance Storm chases the Band away, grabs the mic and challenges Chris Candido. (57)

Backstage, Air Raid prepare for their rematch for the WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship. Paris urges Styles to focus on team success rather than being a "WCW wonder boy". (37)

Match 3, WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship: Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera vs Air Raid (AJ Styles and Air Paris) (w/ Torrie Wilson). Air Paris hasn't been in the ring much, due to an injury sustained in their PPV match the previous night. This affected the match, making it worse than their previous bout. Nevertheless, Rey and AJ manage to pull out the great show. At the end, Juvi whips Styles into the corner, where Paris prepared a high-risk maneuver. Paris goes down, and Guerrera finishes Styles with the Juvi Driver to retain the titles. (12:17) (56) Post match Air Paris helps AJ Styles up... only to plant him with the Reverse DDT. Paris spits on the lying Styles and leaves the arena as Torrie tries to help AJ. (41)

Booker T in-ring promo. "I have something important to tell you today... You see, I have been in WCW for a long time. I was in the back of this company when it was run by Hogan, Nash, Hall, Savage, Luger, and other guys who, quite frankly, were receiving huge checks even though they were performing at half strength, not going out at all, or only holding a microphone. But that did not stop them from getting the best hotel rooms in the cities where WCW came. However, if my name was on the billboard, you could be sure I'd give it my all in that ring. It was always important to me not to let you, fans, down. You can cheer me, you can boo me, you can see me win or lose, but you will have a good time seeing me in that ring. I was patiently waiting for my chance for my all career. And I got it. WCW World Heavyweight Championship. Everything I dreamed of. Then you all know what happened - a new era, new rules. And those rules brought back everything that was sick in the WCW. Unfairness. Unjustice. I lost to Goldberg and never got my rematch. I got screwed several times during the U.S. title matches. Frankly, I'm sick of it. I want Dusty Rhodes, the WCW Commissioner as management representative, to come out here because I want to say something right to his face."...

A few seconds later, WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes comes to the ring. Booker continues, "I'm sick of it. It's no secret that last night at Halloween Havoc was the last day my old WCW contract was in effect. I know that both you and Eric were trying to get me on the phone to sign a new one. I wasn't going to do that, and I see that I was right. WCW is becoming the same hole it was in the days of Hogan, Savage, and others. Talent isn't valued here. It's where politics and guile are starting to be valued. So I decided to seek my fortune elsewhere. Like... Vince McMahon. I think he'll have a decent offer for me. But WCW is my home, and I'm gonna give you one last chance to do the justice. I want what's rightfully mine, a rematch for the WCw World Heavyweight Championship against Goldberg at Mayhem... or I QUIT!"

Dusty Rhodes responds that it pains him to hear that Booker wants out of WCW. But Booker saw for himself what was going on at the beginning of the show - four guys have every right to a title match. They have great stats, and Booker has lost most of his matches. Dusty Rhodes can't give him a title shot. Rhodes can't bypass the rules. Booker T replies: "Then, like I said... I quit!." Booker drops the microphone and leaves the ring. (64)

After a commercial break, we see Booker T leaving the building and taking a last glance at his former home, World Championship Wrestling, before driving away (70).

Backstage, Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Steve Corino, and CW Anderson are discussing their titles match from the previous night. They have another opportunity to fight for the titles today, but tensions rise as Flair and Corino exchange complaints. Flair suggests that Ric and CW Anderson participate in the match, but Corino stops him and tells that it's not his decision - the Enforcers will be the ones to compete. (64)

Backstage, Glen Gilberti accidentally hits James Mitchell while opening a door. Mitchell wants apologies. Gilberti scoffs at the idea and James' appearance (30).

Match 4, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire vs The Enforcers (Steve Corino and CW Anderson) (w/ Ric Flair and Arn Anderson). Steve Corino and CW Anderson almost become the new champions, but in the end, O'Haire uses a unique armbar variation on Corino. Flair has a perfect chance to hit Sean with the championship belt as referee don't see him.... but Flair passes. Corino is forced to tap out. (6:32) (63) Post match, Steve Corino confronts Flair, but Arn Anderson intervenes and calms everybody down (70).

WCW US Champion Chavo Guerrero, accompanied by LAX, in-ring promo. He complains that he has not received the recognition and respect he deserves, even after defeating Booker T for the third time and retaining his title. Chavo brags about being the best U.S. Champion in history and promises that one day, people will tell their grandchildren about seeing him live (70).

Match 5, WCW United States Championship: Chavo Guerrero (w/ LAX) vs Glen Gilberti. Homicide and Hernandez tried to intervene, but even with that Gilberti prevailed and had his chance to become the US champion. However, James Mitchell suddenly appears and throws some powder in his face, allowing Chavo to capitalize with a Brainbuster and pin to retain the title. (6:31) (73)

Match 6: Ken Shamrock and Chris Kanyon vs Diamond Dallas Page and Sting. Both teams had difficulty working together. Chris Kanyon became so frustrated with Ken Shamrock that he shoved him into the corner, prompting Shamrock to retaliate by pummeling him with punches. Diamond Dallas Page then knocked Shamrock out of the ring, leaving Sting to finish Kanyon with the Scorpion Deathdrop for the win. (15:38) (73)

The commentators remind us that next week, these four competitors will compete in a fatal 4-way match to determine the next contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. Who will earn the opportunity to fight Goldberg at Mayhem? Tune in to next week's WCW Monday Nitro to find out!

Overall: 71

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #25

 

Last Week: WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes was having trouble deciding who would be the next opponent for WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg. As a result, a four-man contender match was scheduled for tonight's event. (72)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcome us from United Center, Chicago, IL. (74)

Tonight - Former champions Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore will get another shot for the WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship against Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera. (38)

Tonight - Ken Shamrock, Chris Kanyon, Diamond Dallas Page and Sting will decide who'll become #1 contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship at WCW Mayhem. (72)

Match 1, WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Noble vs Air Paris (w/ Torrie Wilson). Air Paris was still injured, so match quality was hurt by that. Noble ultimately wins after Jumping Tombstone. (8:56) (68) Post match, AJ Styles attacked Air Paris, until WCW officials intervened. (41)

After a commercial break, Torrie Wilson approaches AJ Styles. She expresses her admiration for him and offers to be his manager, as Air Raid is no longer active. Styles declines, saying that he did not need a manager at the moment. (38)

Backstage, Tony Schiavone interviews WCW Cruiserweight Champion Jamie Noble, asking about his quite long title reign.  Kid Kash appears, accusing Noble of winning unfairly at Halloween Havoc. Noble again apologized for an accidental low blow. (39)

Match 2, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire vs Havana Pitbulls (Ricky Reyes and Rocky Romero). Everyone initially predicted an easy victory for the current champions. However, it didn't turn out to be that easy, as Palumbo accidentally knocked Sean down several times. In the end Palambo put Reyes down with the Backbreaker, and O'Haire instantly did Senton Bomb to win. (7:40) (65) Post match, Gene Okerlund come to interview the champions. Palambo starts talking about how they've beaten every WCW team. However, O'Haire isn't happy. He angrily remarks that Palambo should have focused better, or their title reign would come to an end. (56)

Last Week: Booker T officially left WCW. (69)

In his office, WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes is on the phone, apparently with Eric Bischoff, as he makes excuses for the Booker T situation. Rhodes promises to fix the problem with Booker, so he won't do something stupid and go to WWF. (54)

Last Week: Glen Gilberti had a bit of a backstage spat with James Mitchell, which led to Mitchell later interfering in the match and preventing Glen from becoming the WCW United States Champion. (57)

Glen Gilberti enters the ring and cuts a promo about how last week was the closest he had come to fulfilling his long-held dream of finally becoming the WCW US Champion. He was closest to the peak of his career, but weasel Mitchell got in his way. Gilberti calls him out... James Mitchell enters the arena. "You represent everything wrong with wrestling today. It's supposed to be the sport of real fighters, real monsters. And you? Dancing clown? Disco Inferno? Pathetic. You want to fight me? I'm not a fighter. I can't 'outfight' you. But I can 'outthink' you. So you don't have a problem with me right now, but with someone else." Black Reign attacks Gilberti from behind and performs Blackout to the delight of his manager. (54) 

At Halloween Havoc: CM Punk wins the $100,00 Dusty Rhodes Invitational tournament. 

WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes welcomes to the ring CM Punk and presents him with a $100,000 check. CM Punk takes the mic and talks about how he is already better than everyone else. When everyone in the WCW locker room doing drugs, drinking alcohol, smoking, and engaging in debauchery - Punk locks himself in a hotel to be ready for the next day. He introduces the straight edge era in WCW. Billy Kidman interrupts. Kidman wants a rematch and challenges Punk to a match at WCW Mayhem. Punk accepts, and Dusty Rhodes makes the match official. (53)

Match 3: Lance Storm vs Elix Skipper. In the match between former Team Canada members Storm's experience helped him capture Skipper in a Half-Boston Crab and forced him to surrender. (5:57) (62) Post match, Storm calls for Chris Candido to come out. Candido sneaks from behind and hits him with a chair. WCW Security is here, but Candido escapes.

In his office, Dusty Rhodes tries to call Booker T, but no one picks up the phone.

Match 4, WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship: Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera vs Dark Society (Shannon Moore and Christopher Daniels) (w/ Vampiro). Moore goes for a powerbomb, but Mysterio turns it into a quick Hurricanrana to win. (10:51) (66) Post match, Dark Society attacks the winners. TAKA Michinoku and Tajiri come to save and chase them away. (38)

Backstage, Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Steve Corino, and CW Anderson grieve over the loss in a tag team titles match. Arn reminds them that their group was formed to help Flair reclaim the gold, and he has a plan to do just that. (60)

Backstage, WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes talks to Stevie Ray and asks him to deliver a message to his brother.

WCW US Champion Chavo Guerrero, accompanied by LAX, in-ring promo. He talks about how he finally realized his dream and became U.S. champion. And that's not enough for him. He wants to be the best U.S. champion in history. He's ready to beat every U.S. champion, former or potential, because… Ric Flair, Arn Anderson and The Enforcers interrupt. "To be the man you must beat the man. And to be the greatest US champion you must beat the greatest US champion... like Ric Flair!" Flair challenges Chavo to put title on the line at WCW Mayhem. Chavo accepts. Ric immediately challenges him to a 3-on-3 match right now! (80)

Match 5: Chavo Guerrero and LAX (Homicide and Hernandez) vs Ric Flair and The Enforcers (Steve Corino and CW Anderson) (w/ Arn Anderson). Nice match, but LAX were the weak link due to their lack of experience. At the end all six pour into the ring. Chavo takes down Flair with Three Amigos, but Flair blocks the last one and rolls US champion into Figure-Four Leglock! Chavo taps out. (7:50) (62)

Match 6, #1 Contendership for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship: Ken Shamrock vs Chris Kanyon vs Diamond Dallas Page vs Sting. The match started slowly as all the participants were cautious. Shamrock and Sting were in one corner, while Page and Kanyon were in the other. Kanyon goes for Flatliner... DDP blocks and does Diamond Cutter! Meanwhile, Sting tries to put Shamrock into Scorpion Deathlock, but Shamrock avoids and uses Ankle Lock on Sting! Booker T makes his way to the ring and attacks Shamrock with a Harlem Sidekick. Page pins Kanyon... but Booker T attacks him too. The referee had no choice but to stop the match with no winner declared. (14:00) (76) 

Post match, Bookend on Sting! Bookend on DDP! Bookend on Shamrock! Booker T is the last man standing. WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes rushes to the ring with WCW Security, and show goes off the air.

Overall: 75

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #26

 

Last Week: Booker T intervened in a #1 contendership match for the WCW World Heavyweight Title, so there was no winner. (68)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcomes us to WCW Monday Nitro from World Arena, Colorado Springs, CO.

WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes opens the show, adressing the issue of not having an opponent for Goldberg at WCW Mayhem, which is only 13 days away. Rhodes expressed his frustration with people who don't have contracts and still attack wrestlers, causing chaos in the matches. From now on everything would be by the rules. And those incident will be fought mercilessly. Decision #1: Chris Candido would receive a WCW contract for one match against Lance Storm at WCW Mayhem. As for Booker T, Rhodes is willing to give him a platform to speak if he had anything to say. Regarding the #1 contender, Rhodes promises to review the previous match to determine who was closest to winning before Booker interfered, and he will announce his decision about who would face Goldberg before the end of the show...

... before Rhodes could leave, Ken Shamrock arrives. He reminds Rhodes that he was close to winning at Halloween Havoc. He would be the champion if not the referee's mistake. Diamond Dallas Page then appears and argues that he should get the title match as he had already taken down Kanyon and could have done the same to Sting had Booker T not interfered. Rhodes promised to take everything into consideration and scheduled two matches for that night: Shamrock vs. Page and Kanyon vs. Sting. The winners of these matches would have a better chance of becoming Goldberg's opponent at Mayhem (62).

Match 1: CM Punk vs Lance Storm. CM Punk goes for Anaconda Vice, but Storm blocks. After leg sweep Lance puts Punk into Half-Boston Crab. Punk is ready to tap out, but fortunately for him Chris Candido attacks Storm again, causing a DQ. (6:26) (69) Post match, Chris Candido does a top-rope legdrop on Storm and offers Punk to continue what he began. Punk puts Storm in Anaconda Vice. Billy Kidman comes to make a save. (33)

Match 2, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chuck Palumbo and Sean O’Haire vs Bam Bam Bigelow and Crowbar. The hardcore wrestlers performed well, although Bigelow was noticeably slow. It was later revealed that he was under the influence of drugs. Palumbo kicks Crowbar with Jungle Kick. Sean O'Haire goes to finish him with Senton Bomb, but Palumbo uses his new finisher Yokosuka Cutter to pin Crowbar for three himself. O'Haire is standing on the top-rope like an idiot. (5:39) (57) Post match, Sean O’Haire is frustrated. Bobby Heenan stops the argument! He appears on the ramp and announces that he found new clients who are ready to challenge Palumbo and O'Haire for the WCW World Tag Team Championship at Mayhem. The champions accept the challenge. (56)

Last Week: TAKA Michinoku and Tajiri saved WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera from Dark Society. 

Match 3, WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship: Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera vs TAKA Michinoku and Tajiri. Tajiri gets the hot tag at the end and hits the champs with a Double Handspring Elbow. He follows up with the Shining Wizard on Juventud, but Rey breaks the pin. Michinoku attacks Rey and sets him up for the Michinoku Driver... but Dark Society attacks everyone in the match. No contest. (11:28) (69)

Booker T in-ring promo. He talks about how he carried WCW through their worst times, but his contributions have gone unrecognized. Booker shares that he has an offer from WWF, but he's willing to return to WCW with one condition: a WCW World Heavyweight Championship match at Mayhem. He is about to leave, but is stopped by... 

…. Ted DiBiase! Ted understands Booker T as he also came to WCW full of hope but never got the attention he deserved. DiBiase offers to sign the contract not with WCW or WWF, but with his Million Dollar Corporation. DiBiase assures Booker that he'll be his most valuable asset and is willing to invest in him to make him the new WCW World Heavyweight Champion. Booker hesitates, but ultimately declines. Ted warns that he'll regret this decision and tells that Booker will remain a "mere Harlem trash" if he doesn't take up his offer. Booker T puts his hands on Ted, but Mark Jindrak comes to save and knocks Booker out with Superkick. (61)

Match 4, WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Noble vs AJ Styles. The commentators hype up the fact, that Styles got his well-deserved title shot. AJ misses with 450 Splash. Noble goes for Jumping Tombstone... block into Styles Clash attempt... block again. AJ kicks Noble with Springboard Dropkick and ready for another 450 Splash... Air Paris comes to the ringside. This distraction enables Noble to knock Styles off the top-rope and execute Jumping Tombstone to retain the title. (11:01) (61) Post match, Torrie Wilson is here to stop the fight between former partners, but accidentally was hit by Paris. She needs help. (40)

Backstage, Steve Corino tells Ric Flair, Arn Anderson and CW Anderson he was at WCW Commissioner's office and got a US title shot tonight! Arn tells him about their plan - to make Flair the US champion at Mayhem. Corino responds that he can become the champ tonight and bring the first gold to the Horsemen. Flair reminds him that there are no more Horsemen and Corino isn’t one of them. (58)

Backstage, Kid Kash again accuses Jamie Noble of winning unfairly at last PPV. Noble challenges him to a title match at WCW Mayhem. (40)

Match 5, WCW United States Championship: Chavo Guerrero (w/ LAX) vs Steve Corino. Corino was accompanied by nobody. That ultimately decides the match result, as Hernandez kicks Corino with a big boot, while Homicide distracted the referee. Chavo finishes the match with a Frog Splash. (7:40) (72) Post match, Homicide performs Gringo Killer. Nobody is here to save Corino. 

Chris Kanyon backstage interview. He claims that he should be the #1 contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, because all the other candidates have already lost to Goldberg, and Chris never got his chance. (62)

Match 6: Chris Kanyon vs Sting. A very cool match, worthy of a main event. After two Stinger Splashes Sting applies Scorpion Deathlock. Kanyon screams in pain, but refuses to tap out. He manages to reach the rope. However Scorpion Deathdrop puts an end to the match. Sting wins. (10:41) (81) Post match, Sting celebrates, but Kanyon attacks him and performs Flatliner.

Match 7: Ken Shamrock vs Diamond Dallas Page. In back and forth match Shamrock goes for an Ankle Lock. Page blocks and tries Diamond Cutter, but it's blocked. Double clothesline puts both of them down. Chris Kanyon attacks both of them. Sting immediately comes to save, causing the match to be no contest. (11:52) (68) 

Post match, there is a huge brawl in the ring between all four wrestlers. WCW Security is here to stop the chaos. WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes comes out onto the ramp. He's thought about it and has made a decision that will satisfy everyone. So, at WCW Mayhem, Goldberg will defend the title... in a six-man match! Goldberg will face Ken Shamrock, Chris Kanyon, DDP, Sting... and Booker T! (72)

Overall: 69

===================================

 

Memo 008: One fired, one suspended... for now

Two big news items for today.

How smart do you have to be to initiate a full-scale brawl with Goldberg? Apparently, not much. However, Kid Kash managed to do just that. For real, he started a fight with Goldberg backstage, and this was not his first altercation. When I confronted him about it, he became angry and threatened to resign. And if I won't release him from the contract (fresh one, signed just 2 months ago) Kash also threatened to sabotage the show in any way possible.

As a result, Kid Kash is no longer affiliated with WCW. 

Fired. 

The status of the announced match between Kash and Jamie Noble for the WCW Cruiserweight Championship at Mayhem is unclear. 

I need to consider my options and to do it fast.

In other news, Kevin Nash has been suspended from WCW without pay for 30 days. This is due to repeated violations of discipline and a general negative attitude in the WCW locker room. 

Look...

After the departure of my top stars like Scott Steiner (who is now in WWF as a tag team champion with his brother Rick), Mike Awesome (who is a big star in Japan), Rob Van Dam (who is taking indy bookings), Shane Helms, and others, I was willing to give everyone a chance, even those who weren't skilled in the ring. I was committed to create a good role for everyone. Unfortunately, it seems that not everyone is ready to take advantage of this.

Now I need to decide what to do with Chris Hero, Claudio Castagnoli, and the entire Band storyline.

There is only one Nitro left before Mayhem, so I need to act fast.

P.S. Booker T’s contract is ending for real. And he has an offer from WWF. Where this will end? Will he stay with us? Or go to Vince like Hulk Hogan (current WWF champion), Scott Steiner (current WWF Tag Team Champion with his brother Rick) and others? We’ll see, but for now I do a storyline with it.

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #27

 

Last Week: WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes scheduled a six-man elimination match at WCW Mayhem. Goldberg will defend the WCW World Heavyweight Championship against Booker T, Chris Kanyon, Diamond Dallas Page, Sting, and Ken Shamrock. (66)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcome the audience from Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center, Augusta, Georgia with WCW Mayhem only 6 days away.

WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg in-ring promo. "I came back to WCW to dominate and had already defeated anyone who dared to challenge me. No one can take this title from me in a fair match. But in six-man match anyone could pin anyone, and I can lose the title without losing the match." WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes is here to agree and offer a compromise. "It will be an elimination match. No one can take the title away from you without pinfall or making you give up." Goldberg: "Then I will leave as the champion, as it is simply not possible". (70)

Tonight - All the contenders for the WCW World Heavyweight CHampionship will come together in a six-man match. Goldberg, Chris Kanyon and Booker T will face off against Ken Shamrock, Diamond Dallas Page and Sting.

Match 1: Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell) vs Alex Wright (w/ Glen Gilberti). The commentators mention that Reign and Gilberti are scheduled to have a match at WCW Mayhem. Alex Wright takes control and knocks Reign down for a couple of times. In the end he is distracted by Mitchell and gets Blackout with following pin for three. (7:10) Post match Black Reign attacks Gilberti and attempts Blackout, but Gilberti kicks with the low blow and does Chartbuster! (53)

WCW Cruiserweight Champion Jamie Noble is here for a promo. "I had to defend the title in 6 days at Mayhem and I was ready to prove that my win over Kash at Halloween Havoc was legitimate. But Kash is not here anymore. He prefers to drink and get in a fights in the locker room. WCW is the place for legitimate fighters. I still want to defend the title. That's why I challenge anyone to face me for this title... tonight! And if I'll still be the champion, I will issue another open challenge at Mayhem". Elix Skipper answers the challenge. (41)

Match 2, WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Noble vs Elix Skipper. Elix Skipper was struggling lately, but in this match he was good and came closer than ever to reclaiming the WCW Cruiserweight Championship. Skipper managed to put Noble down with the Spicoli Driver for two. But after that Noble blocked an Overdrive attempt and did a Jumping Tombstone to win. (9:29) (65)

Backstage, Steve Corino is not happy that he didn't receive any help during the U.S. title match last week. Arn Anderson explains to him that it was his own fault since he got the match without consulting others. They have a plan and they should follow it as it is. (72)

Ric Flair pre-match promo. "WCW United States Championship has a history. So many great men have carried that title. In 6 days I'll be fighting for it again and intend to become 7-time US champion. WHOOOOOO!" (78)

Match 3: Ric Flair vs Homicide (w/ Hernandez and Chavo Guerrero). Homicide had the biggest match of his career. Despite Flair's experience, Homicide showed that he could perform in big arenas against big stars. He used his speed and youth to gain an advantage over Flair. But in the end Flair blocks Gringo Killer attempt with a low blow and puts Homicide in Figure-Four Leglock to win. (68) (6:01) Post match Hernandez and Chavo Guerrero attack Flair. Steve Corino and CW Anderson come to save. (48)

Booker T in-ring promo. He announces that he has signed a new contract with WCW and intends to become 6-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion at Mayhem. But he has some 'side project': rat DiBiase and his pet Jindrak. Booker T challenges Mark Jindrak to a match tonight. Ted DiBiase is here to respond. "My best asset Mark Jindrak will fight only whey I say so. He is young, talented, and strong, and will be the foundation of my empire. But I have a place for you too." DiBiase again offers Booker T a place in his corporation, promising him money, titles, and the most expensive things. Booker T refuses again and is immediately attacked by Mark Jindrak. Jindrak knocks him out with a Superkick and then throws steel steps on his leg. It seems that Booker T is injured. (67)

Match 4: Rey Mysterio (w/ Juventud Guerrera) vs TAKA Michinoku (w/ Tajiri) vs Christopher Daniels (w/ Shannon Moore). Shannon Moore interferes, leading to a brawl outside the ring. During the chaos, Michinoku executes a Michinoku Driver on Daniels. Rey tosses TAKA out of the ring and delivers a Slingshot Legdrop on Daniels, winning the match. (10:03) (72)

CM Punk and Chris Candido backstage interview. They have a tag team match tonight. CM Punk once again promotes the benefits of living a straight-edge lifestyle and talks about his intention to defeat Kidman at the upcoming PPV. Candido claims that he has always been superior to Lance Storm in both ECW and WCW, and he plans to establish himself as a top player in WCW by defeating Storm. (39)

Match 5: CM Punk and Chris Candido vs Lance Storm and Billy Kidman. Punk and Storm go to brawl outside the ring, but before that Kidman got a blind tag and he finished Candido with a Shooting Star Press, resulting in a pinfall victory. (7:27) (54)

Chris Kanyon backstage interview. "At Mayhem my dream will come true and I'll finally become the WCW World Heavyweight Champion." (57)

Match 6: Goldberg, Chris Kanyon and Booker T vs Ken Shamrock, Diamond Dallas Page and Sting. Each wrestler in the match received roughly equal time. Kanyon and DDP predictably focused on each other, while Shamrock attempted to get to Goldberg. Booker T was the weakest link after being attacked by Mark Jindrak earlier in the show. This determined the outcome of the match, with Booker T receiving a Diamond Cutter from Page and a Scorpion Deathdrop from Sting. He was pinned for three. (14:02) (68) Post match, all six continue to fight. The commentators anticipate the championship match on Mayhem, and the show goes off the air.

Overall: 71

================================================

WCW Mayhem 2001
Final Card

WCW World Heavyweight Championship
6-Man Elimination Match
Goldberg vs "The World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock vs Diamond Dallas Page vs Chris Kanyon vs Sting vs Booker T

WCW United Stated Championship
Chavo Guerrero vs "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair

WCW World Tag Team Championship
Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire vs Bobby Heenan's Clients

WCW Cruiserweight Championship
Jamie Noble's Open Challenge

WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship
Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera vs TAKA Michinoku and Tajiri vs Shannon Moore and Christopher Daniels

Lance Storm vs Chris Candido

Billy Kidman vs CM Punk

AJ Styles vs Air Paris

Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell) vs Glen Gilberti

[DHK1989]

Goldberg

Ric Flair

Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire

Jamie Noble

TAKA Michinoku and Tajiri

Lance Storm

CM Punk

AJ Styles

Black Reign

[Dimos]

WCW Mayhem 2001
 

A video is playing, promoting tonight's main event, the most significant match in recent WCW history - Goldberg vs Ken Shamrock vs. Chris Kanyon vs DDP vs Sting vs Booker T. It's an elimination match with the WCW World Heavyweight Championship on the line. (74)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcome the audience to WCW Mayhem! We are at Cellular Arena in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

WCW Cruiserweight Champion Jamie Noble opens the show. "I promised you'd see the title defense at Mayhem. I gonna keep my promise. Anyone who wants to try their hand and take that title from me can come out here and do it." Kaz Hayashi answers the challenge.

Match 1, WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Noble vs Kaz Hayashi. Kaz Hayashi proved once again that he is underrated and worthy of a singles career in WCW. The wrestlers put on an amazing match with a lot of drama that you don't usually see in cruiserweight matches. Jamie Noble kicks out after Hayashi Cutter, one of the finishers from Kaz. Hayashi goes for Hurricanrana from the Top, but Noble avoids and does Powerbomb. Top-Rope Legdrop... only for two. Hayashi tries Hayashi Cutter again... but Noble blocks and performs Jumping Tombstone for the win. (14:13) (76)

Match 2: AJ Styles vs Air Paris. A fight between former teammates and now enemies. Just a few months ago they were successful team with manager Torrie Wilson by their side. Air Paris used cheap tactics to give himself advantage. For example, Styles missed with a 450 Splash. Paris immideately rolls him up and puts feet on the rope. Only for two. Paris picks up his former partner, Styles blocks the punch and plants him with a Styles Clash for three. (14:23) (75)

Post match, Torrie Wilson appears on the ramp. "Congratulations, AJ! With that kind of effort, you could have made it to the top of WCW, but unfortunately, you don't have a good manager by your side. You refused my offer. Well... Not everyone is such an idiot. Let me introduce my new client... The Future of that company. The Future of professional wrestling. "The Future"... Frankie Kazarian!" Frankie Kazarian jumps into the ring from behind and executes the Wave of the Future on Styles. AJ lies unconscious in the ring as Frankie Kazarian and his new manager leave the arena. (38)

WCW World Tag Team Champions Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire pre-match promo. They boast about how they've been champions almost without a break since January 2001, and that no team in the world can stop them. Bobby Heenan interrupts. He agrees that there is no team in WCW right now that can stop the champions. But he has made some calls and brought someone from the outside... Lex Luger and Randy Savage!

Match 3, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chuck Palumbo and Sean O’Haire vs Lex Luger and Randy Savage (w/ Bobby Heenan). Mike Tenay points out that Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire are facing their most serious opponents yet. Between them, they have six WCW World Heavyweight Championships and numerous other titles. Plus Bobby Heenan, one of the most successful managers in wrestling history, is in their corner. Though Luger and Savage aren't in their prime, the audience still reacts well. Palumbo and O'Haire start off strong, but Heenan's intervention turns the match in Luger and Savage's favor. O’Haire gets a hot tag in the end. Bobby Heenan has a trick prepared… and takes out a baseball bat from under the ring. Luger strikes Palumbo with the bat, as the referee is distracted by Heenan. O’Haire kicks Luger out with big boot, picks up bat… and hits Savage in the head! One, two, three. Palumbo and O’Haire retain the titles. (13:41) (62)

Match 4: Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell) vs Glen Gilberti.  Gilberti focuses on attacking Black Reign's leg throughout the match. In the end Gilberti attempts to do a Chartbuster, but Black Reign moves it into a Blackout and wins the match. (11:40) (74)

Video of Chris Candido attacking Lance Storm in his WCW debut a month before. Tonight, they will face off in a one-on-one match.

Match 5: Lance Storm vs Chris Candido (w/ Tammy Sytch). Mike Tenay mentioned the long history between the wrestlers back in ECW. The match itself was pretty good, full of drama and interesting moves, typical of ECW style. Tammy repeatedly tried to interfere in the match, but it didn't bother Lance Storm much. At one point, Storm chases Tammy around the ring, and Chris Candido meets him halfway, planching from the ring into the steel barricades. Later Lance climbs onto the top rope, and Tammy Sytch tries to get in his way, but he shoves her off with his foot. This gives Candido the opportunity to attack Storm, but Lance manages to turn an attempted Powerbomb into a Top-Rope Hurricanrana. Storm then immediately grabs Candido into the Half-Boston Crab, and Chris gives up. (13:41) (72)

Match 6: Billy Kidman vs CM Punk. Mike Tenay reminded that Punk had won the $100,000 Dusty Rhodes Invitational and had been one of the most promising young wrestlers in WCW ever since. The match was Kidman's attempt to get revenge for his loss in the finals. Kidman catches Punk up into Kid Krusher and it might be the end... but only for two counts. Shooting Star Press attempt... Punk attacks Kidman on the top rope and does Super Samoan Drop. CM Punk wastes no time and immediately grabs Kidman into the Anaconda Vice. Kidman endures and endures but eventually taps out. (13:58) (72)

WCW US Champion Chavo Guerrero backstage interview. Chavo says that defeating Ric Flair will grace his championship journey and put him forever in the list of the best US champions in history. And no Horsemen, or whatever Flair calls them, can do anything about it. (64)

Match 7, WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship: Rey Mysterio and Juventud Guerrera vs TAKA Michinoku and Tajiri vs Dark Society (Shannon Moore and Christopher Daniels) (w/ Vampiro). There was some risk in putting this match near the end of the card, but that risk paid off. There guys put on one of the best matches of the entire show. A lot of high-risk spots, quich interceptions, fast moves etc. In the end Michinoku plants Juvi with a Michinoku Driver. Moore knocks Michinoku out of the ring and follows him. Tajiri puts Rey down with the Chokeslam Power Bomb! Daniels breaks the pin. Daniels and Tajiri trade punches. Vampiro jumps on the apron and hits Tajiri with the championship belt to the head! Daniels immediately catches his opponent on the Angel Wings to win. And we have the NEW WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions! (13:53) (80)

Match 8, WCW United States Championship: Chavo Guerrero vs Ric Flair. Both wrestlers broke the rules multiple times, but Ric Flair always managed to get away with it, while Chavo got reprimended by the ref and go his portion of boos. Chavo misses with a Frog Splash. LAX come to the ringside. Flair goes out of the ring and gets big boot from Hernandez. LAX place Flair back in the ring. Steve Corino and CW Anderson come here and attack LAX! Chavo goes for a second Frog Splash... While the referee tried to stop the fight outside the ring, Corino hits Chavo with the title belt to the head. Chavo flies down. And Flair immideately places him into a Figure-Four Leglock! Chavo's shoulders down... the referee counts to three... and we have the NEW WCW United States Champion! (15:33) (74)

Post match, an exhausted Ric Flair received the championship belt from the ref, becoming the 7-time US Champion. Steve Corino enters the ring to congratulate him... and knocks him out with a Superkick! Old School Expulsion on Flair! Corino puts the championship belt on Flair's body and leaves the ring. (80)

Match 9, WCW World Heavyweight Championship, Elimination Match: Goldberg vs Ken Shamrock vs Chris Kanyon vs Diamond Dallas Page vs Sting vs Booker T. The wrestlers quickly split into pairs: Goldberg and Shamrock, Sting and Booker, and DDP and Kanyon. They immediately move into their heavier moves and finishers. Sting catches Kanyon with the Scorpion Death Drop and gets a two-count. Goldberg takes down Sting with a Spear and gets a two-count as well. Shamrock breaks up the pin and tries to put Goldberg into an Ankle Lock, but Goldberg blocks and kicks him out of the ring. Meanwhile, Page and Kanyon trade blows outside the ring, and Page sends Kanyon into the steel steps.

The wrestlers then begin to take apart the commentary table, and Kanyon tries to get a Flatliner through it. However, Page blocks and hits a Diamond Cutter. Both wrestlers are down, but DDP gets up first and rolls Kanyon back into the ring. Booker T sneaks here and finishes Kanyon with a Bookend for the three-count at 13:34. Chris Kanyon is eliminated.

Diamond Dallas Page staggers back into the ring, but gets a Spear from Goldberg. 1... 2... 3... and DDP is eliminated at 14:01.

Shamrock drops Sting with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex for a two-count. He then attempts an Ankle Lock, but Sting wriggles out and turns it into his Scorpion Deathlock attempt. Vampiro slowly walks to the ring, and Sting gets distracted. Shamrock takes advantage and turns things around with another Ankle Grab, causing Sting to tap out at 16:10.

Vampiro leaves the arena. And we've got a classic triple threat with Goldberg, Shamrock and Booker T, with two wrestlers fighting while one rests. Booker T misses with the Harlem Sidekick and knocks the ref off his feet. Goldberg immediately Spears Booker. Shamrock attacks Goldberg from behind and puts him down with a German Suplex. He then puts an Ankle Lock on the WCW World Heavyweight Champion! Goldberg screams in pain... and... wait?!... Goldberg gives up! The referee is out cold. But undefeated Goldberg taps out for the first time in his career! Booker T gets back in the ring and hits Shamrock with his championship belt to the head. Pinfall. The referee gets back and slowly counts for three. Ken Shamrock is eliminated at 18:50.

Both wrestlers are down. Booker T gets up first and walks out of the ring. Someone comes to the ringside... It's Mark Jindrak! Jindrak sends Booker into the steel steps. Side Belly-To-Belly Suplex on the steel chair! Jindrak rolls Booker back into the ring… Goldberg finishes him off with a Jackhammer. One, two… and three. Goldberg retains the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. (20:04) (75)

Post match, Goldberg gets the championship belt but struggles to stay on his feet and falls. He is exhausted from the crazy match, but he is still the champion, and that's all that matters to him. WCW Mayhem comes to an end, and the road to the biggest PPV of the year, WCW Starrcade, begins!

Overall: 75

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #28

 

Last Night: Goldberg retained the WCW World Heavyweight Championship in a crazy six-man elimination match. 

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler greet the viewers at WCW Monday Nitro from Metro Centre, Rockford, IL.

WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes is here to introduce our WCW World Heavyweight Champion, Goldberg. Goldberg takes the mic and states that he is not into any championship speeches much. Yesterday he beat the top 5 WCW wrestlers. And now Rhodes must find him a new opponent. Until then he has no need to be here. Goldberg is about to leave...

... but Ken Shamrock interrupts. He reminds him of what happened at WCW Mayhem and shows a moment of the match when Shamrock grabbed Goldberg in the Ankle Lock. Goldberg endures the pain, but suddenly gives up. Goldberg is furious after the footage. Shamrock tells Goldberg that technically he can still be the world champion and terrify every professional athlete and fighter in the world with his athleticism, speed, ferocity, and ruthlessness. However, people will always remember that their champion gave up. Fans start chanting, "You tapped out" which angers Goldberg even more. Shamrock challenges Goldberg to a rematch, Goldberg-Shamrock, part II, tonight in Rockford!..

... Jerry Lawler remarks that Shamrock must be an idiot for deciding to piss off Goldberg like that. Dusty Rhodes intervenes and reminds Shamrock that he doesn't set the matches there. Shamrock lost the last night's match, no matter what the circumstances were. But Shamrock is right about controversy, so that fact will put him at the top of the contenders race. If he can beat Sting next week, he will get a title match. If Sting wins, he will be the challenger. Nevertheless, the fans in Rockford deserve a great spectacle. So, tonight, Shamrock and Sting will fight as a team against Vampiro and Goldberg. (89)

After the break, Torrie Wilson is here. "I'm excited to inform you that AJ Styles made some bad career decisions and, as a result, suffered a serious shoulder injury last night. Hopefully, he won't be able to step into the ring again. But don't worry... As I am here to introduce you to the future of professional wrestling - and my new client - Frankie Kazarian!"

Match 1: ‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson) vs Paul London. Paul London is known as one of the most talented and promising cruiserweights, and he shows it from the start. London blocks a Wave of the Future attempt and does forward twisting neckbreaker. Only for two. London goes for a 450 Splash, but misses. Kazarian quickly gets up and finishes the match with a Wave of the Future. (6:53) (23) Post match, AJ Styles is here with a bandaged shoulder! Despite having only one working arm, he attacks Kazarian. But Frankie quickly gains control and finishes Styles with the Wave of the Future, before leaving the ring with Torrie. (40)

Backstage, Chavo Guerrero runs into Juventud Guerrera. Juventud mocks him, saying his championship reign ended yesterday and now the Guerrera name will be more popular than the Guerrero name. Chavo challenges Juventud to a match, right now after the commercial break. (50)

Match 2: Chavo Guerrero vs Juventud Guerrera. Guerrero counters Juvi Driver and hits a Gory Bomb. After that he easily wins via Frog Splash. (6:37) (69) Post match, Chavo doesn't stop. He puts Juventud's leg into the chair and delivers another Frog Splash on it! Juvi screams in pain. Medics and Rey Mysterio rush to the ring to help. (43)

Booker T in-ring promo. "Turn off the music! I want to say something important to every fan sitting here and watching on TV. I have felt your support throughout my career. Even when I was in a dark place a couple of weeks ago and was ready to leave my home - WCW - I still felt your support. I felt your support every time... When I became a US champion... When I became the TV champion... When I became a tag teamchampion. I felt tremendous support when I fulfilled my dream and became the WCW World Heavyweight Champion for the first time. And all four times after that. Even yesterday, I felt your support. Not all of you, it makes sense as there were five other tremendous athletes. But many of you supported me, and for your sake, I was very close to becoming the world champion again. But Mark Jindrak, at the behest of the rich rat Ted DiBiase, robbed me of that chance. Jindrak, I don't care what DiBiase whispered in your ears. I don't care that he messed with your head. You chose your own path and signed your own death warrant. I'll get you sooner or later, so don't make it hard for yourself. Come out here and get the beating you're due, sucka!"... (71) …

… Ted DiBiase comes to the ramp. He smiles… and goes straight to the ring! Jerry Lawler: “It’s a suicide! Someone, stop him!”. Ted speaks: “First of all, Mark Jindrak will only fight when and where I tell him to. Jindrak works for me. Are you surprised to see me here in the ring, one step away from you? I ain't afraid of you, Booker. I'm not afraid of anybody in the world. Because I have the power in my hands. I have the truth in my hands. Believe it or not, deny it or not, the truth is in the money. If you'd joined me when I offered it to you, you'd have a WCW World Heavyweight Championship right now. You'd have the money. You'd have the fame and the best PR - I'd take care of that. You'd be the face of WCW. I still believe in you. I still see tremendous potential in you. That's why I did what I did at Mayhem. It was a business decision. You didn't become a champion, and your stock went down a lot. You won't get as good offers as you used to. But I'm still willing to offer you a million-dollar contract with my Corporation. Work for me. Do the right choice. Let's go to the top together."... (72)...

… Booker T declines and grabs Ted. Mark Jindrak pops up from behind in the ring ... but this time Booker, having learned from his previous experience, turns around and meets him with a series of punches! Jindrak is ready for a Bookend... low blow from DiBiase! Jindrak takes Booker down with a Mark of Excellence. (65)

After the break, Sting in-ring promo. He shares his frustration about Vampiro interfering in his business yet again last night and declares that he wants to put an end to it once and for all. Sting challenges Vampiro to a match, anytime and anywhere. Suddenly, the lights in the arena go out, and ominous music starts playing. Monks holding torches enter the ramp, and Vampiro's voice booms through the arena. "Sting... How these people love you. You're a legend to them, Sting. They all follow you. They buy your merch. People are sheep. They can't choose their own path. They have to follow someone. They have to have a leader. I don't have followers. I only have brothers and sisters who do my will. I am not a leader. I am their spiritual father. And you and all your people, Sting, you're pathetic. I'm ready to destroy the legend of Sting forever. You and me. Starrcade." (72)

In pre-match promo returning Fit Finlay introduces his new mentee debuting in WCW, the man who just loves to fight, Ken Anderson.

Match 3: Ken Anderson (w/ Fit Finlay) vs Diamond Dallas Page. Despite his mentor's guidance, Anderson lacks experience, so Page easily dominates the match. Just as DDP is about to finish Anderson off with a Diamond Cutter, Chris Kanyon enters the ring and attacks him, causing the match to end in DQ. (6:28) (52) Post match, Chris Kanyon and Diamond Dallas Page brawl all over the arena, and it takes a lot of help from referees and officials to separate them.

Steve Corino in-ring promo. “Are you people unhappy about something? Let me explain what happened just 24 hours ago at WCW Mayhem. When I came to WCW, I knew I could dominate here soon. I have a lot of experience and all the skills. This company needs some old school. That's when I met Arn Anderson. I thought it would be nice to have a veteran and legend by my side who could give me some pointers. But all I heard every day around Arn was how great Flair is and how Arn spent the best years of his career next to Flair. But now, your best years are gone, Arn. You spent your best years behind Flair in his shadow. And when Arn brought up the idea that we could be the new Horsemen, that's when Flair came into my life. We have to do what Flair pleases. We have to help his crumbling calf become champion again because he can't do it himself. What did I get in return? He wouldn't even consider us Horsemen! Oh we are not so good for him... He is better than us. Right? I don't want my best years to pass in the shadow of Ric Flair. I don't need his parties, his clubs, or his girls. I'm here to destroy my opponents. That's what I do. I'm here to dominate. I'm here to be the best in the world. I'm my own Horseman now, whether you like it or not!”... (69)...

… Arn Anderson walks into the ring to his own music to answer. "Is that your explanation for what you did? Ric Flair put you in the shade, that's your excuse? I know what it's like to be around Ric Flair. I've been his partner for almost 20 years. No matter what city we went to or what ring we walked into, I was always compared to Ric Flair. Did it hurt me? No, it motivated me to be better every day. Because I was compared to the best in the business, Ric Flair. It made me what I became. Do you think you're unique? Let me tell you something about the old school times, 'Old School'. We had a lot kids like you. They did nothing but complain. Do you know where they are now? Nobody knows. They're gone. But everybody knows Ric Flair's name, everybody knows Arn Anderson's name, and everybody knows who the Four Horsemen are. And let me tell you, boy, you'll never be even half a Horseman."....

…. Steve Corino: "You know what, Arn... I may be old school, but you're just old." Corino slaps Arn! Anderson holds his face, then speaks into the mic, "Yes, I'm old. Yes, I'm not an enforcer anymore. Yes, I'm missing a few vertebrae in my neck. But that doesn't mean I won't be enough to throw one punch to your jaw." Corino smirks again and takes another slap, and this time, Arn Anderson pounces on him and starts to take the lead. Anderson hits a series of punches to the head. CW Anderson rushes to the ring. Corino and CW team up against Arn. Corino sends the veteran into the ropes, and CW Anderson delivers a powerful Spinebuster. Arn Anderson lies motionless and holds his neck; it seems to be a severe injury. Steve Corino and CW Anderson leave the ring while referees and medics appear in the arena. (68)

WCW World Tag Team Champions Chuck Palumbo and Sean O’Haire backstage interview. They are perplexed as to why they have to defend their titles again today against Luger and Savage, even though they beat them yesterday. Tony recalls that the previous match was full of controversy, so Dusty Rhodes scheduled a rematch for tonight. (67)

Backstage, the medics put Arn Anderson in an ambulance. Ric Flair goes with his friend.

Match 4, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chuck Palumbo and Sean O’Haire vs Lex Luger and Randy Savage (w/ Bobby Heenan). The match was even better than the one on Mayhem, probably because it was faster. In the end Randy Savage goes with O'Haire to the ringside. Luger puts Palumbo in the Torture Rack. The referee is distracted by the brawl at ringside. Bobby Heenan jumps on the apron and hits Luger with a baseball bat! The referee turns around and sees Palambo lying on Luger. One, two, three - and Palumbo and O'Haire retain the titles. (12:05) (69) Post match, Chuck Palumbo is puzzled about what happened. He grabs Heenan... but is immediately attacked by Sean O'Haire! O'Haire gives him a Widow Maker and leaves the ring with both championship belts and Heenan.

Match 5: Ken Shamrock and Sting vs Vampiro and Goldberg. Both teams took the lead for an equal amount of time. Shamrock constantly provokes Goldberg to get in the ring and fight him, but Vampiro barely passes him the tag. Goldberg finally gets frustrated and enters the ring himself, tossing the ref aside. Vampiro tries to stop him but...  ends up getting Spear! Goldberg attacks his own teammate! Goldberg then goes after Shamrock at ringside and attempts Spear... but misses and hits the steel steps. Shamrock grabs him in an Ankle Lock! Meanwhile, in the ring Sting finishes off Vampiro with a Scorpion Death Drop. One, two, three. The referee breaks Shamrock's hold on Goldberg, saving the champion, as he was looking ready to tap out for the second time. (14:56) (81)

Post match, Goldberg lays on the ground holding his ankle, unaware of what was happening. Shamrock yells that he was going after Goldberg and his belt. And the show goes off the air at this point.

Overall: 80

===================================

 

Memo 009: Wanna some insider news?

Let's get straight to business...

News:

* Juventud Guerrera, Chris Candido and Tammy Sitch officially left WCW. The reason was horrible behavior backstage and constant conflicts in the locker room. I liked them, but no. Candido did only one match and it was enough. Juventud took WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team belt, but I had to get him lose it. That's why Dark Society became the champions again at Mayhem and Juvi was 'injured' on last Nitro.

* AJ Styles's shoulder injury that was shown at last Nitro is real. It was sustained in a match against Air Paris at Mayhem. Styles was supposed to have a match at Nitro, but the plans had to be rewritten in a hurry due to the injury. He will return to regular appearances in two weeks.

* Also, Tajiri was injured at Mayhem. This injury will leave him out of the ring for the next month.

* I have no plans for Lex Luger and Randy Savage. They were only signed for two appearances and have now left WCW. Their return was due to a lack of worthwhile contenders for team titles at Mayhem, as well as to promote a solo storyline for Sean O'Haire.

* Due to the suspension of Kevin Nash and the firing of Chris Candido, the Band storyline was put on hold. Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli continue to perform in dark matches and will return to the ring after a little rebranding.

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #29

 

Last Week:  Ken Shamrock and Sting defeated Goldberg and Vampiro, with Shamrock once again trapping Goldberg in an Ankle Lock during the match (76)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler is here to start WCW Monday Nitro from Pershing Auditorium, Lincoln, NE. 

Tonight - Ken Shamrock vs Sting for the right to fight for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship at the main PPV of the year - Starrcade.

Ken Shamrock opens the show. “Tonight I can make Goldberg-Shamrock part II at Starrcade a reality. But that's not what this is about right now. Now I want to show you a little video. Mostly because I would like to watch it myself...". Footage of Goldberg in Ankle Lock last week.  "Look at that hand! Look at how the great and terrible Goldberg was ready to tap out again and beg for me to let him go. I remind you of this not to brag. You all deserve the truth here. And the truth is that I knew - in his heart Goldberg had already given up. I could feel it. I've felt it whenever I've faced guys scarier than Goldberg. Before a man gives up, you can feel him stop fighting. You can feel the fighting spirit leaving him. And I could feel that in Goldberg. I felt it at Mayhem, I felt it a week ago. But you know what the most important thing is? If a person has given up on that hold once, they're going to give up again and again and again. Because I not just break my opponent's ankle. I break his spirit. And after I defeat Sting today, I'll do it one more time - at Starrcade."... 

… WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg is here! No words. He just rushes to the ring to fight, but is stopped by referees and road agents. Goldberg scatters them like toys. WCW Security is here. One of them gets speared! Police come to help. One of them uses a stun gun on Goldberg. Goldberg is handcuffed. WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes shows up and orders Goldberg out of the building for the safety of the show and tonight's main event. (82)

During the commercial, Goldberg was put into a police car and taken away from the arena (77).

Match 1: CM Punk vs Ricky Reyes. Reyes gets a couple of good moves, but eventually CM Punk wins via Anaconda Vice. (5:09) (67)

After the commercial break, CM Punk is greeted by Lance Storm backstage. Storm congratulates on a win and compliments his submission hold. Punk replies that he doesn't need congratulations for something that's too easy. He also remembers how Storm once almost gave up after this hold, but only a miracle helped him. (62)

Match 2: ‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson) vs Brian Kendrick. Brian Kendrick makes his WCW debut. Torrie Wilson distracts Kendrick, allowing Kazarian to hit him with a dropkick to the back. Kazarian then delivers the Wave of the Future, pinning Kendrick for a three. (5:03) (61)

In the office, AJ Styles tells WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes that he has almost recovered from his injury and demands a match against Frankie Kazarian. Dusty has other plans for AJ: a shot at the WCW Cruiserweight Championship at Starrcade! (48)

Last Week - Chavo Guerrero injured Juventud Guerrera's leg.

Dusty Rhodes backstage promo. Goldberg will be fined for assaulting WCW employees and suspended for the rest of the night. Dusty personally asked the police to hold him for the safety of the Shamrock-Sting match.

Rey Mysterio in-ring promo. He reveals that Juventud has been seriously injured by Chavo and may never be able to get in the ring again. Rey believes that Chavo should be punished for this, so he challenges Chavo to a match tonight. Chavo Guerrero and LAX are here. Chavo rejects the challenge, but if Rey can beat one of them, Guerrero promises to think about it. (54)

Match 3: Rey Mysterio vs Homicide (w/ Chavo Guerrero and Hernandez). Rey Mysterio unleashes all his fury on Homicide. Chavo Guerrero distracts Rey, and that allows Homicide to grab the lead. Homicide prepares to end the match with the Gringo Killer, but Rey sends him into the ropes. He hits the 6-1-9 and follows up with a West Coast Pop and a pin for three. (6:36) (61) Post match, Rey Mysterio was attacked by Hernandez and Chavo Guerrero. Chavo again puts Rey's leg in the chair and goes for a Frog Splash... WCW Security come to save Mysterio. (46)

Last Week: Bobby Heenan betrayed his clients Lex Luger and Randy Savage and joined Sean O'Haire, who attacked his tag team partner Chuck Palumbo and took both title belts. 

Sean O'Haire (with two WCW World Tag Team title belts and new entrance music) and Bobby Heenan in-ring promo. O'Haire talks: “It's hard to sit backstage at WCW knowing how much potential you have in you. It's hard to sit at the back of the bus that is called WCW, knowing that I can wipe out 99 percent... no, all 100% of that roster any day of the week. And what was I getting instead? I was forced to fight for tag team gold and was forced to do all the work for Palumbo while he stood there and took my glory. We were WCW World Tag Team Champions. But you want the truth? I was the WCW World Tag Team champion, while Palumbo was just wearing that belt. Now justice has been served. I'm taking what's always belonged to me. Now I'm a two-time WCW World Tag Team champion at the same time. The only one in WCW. I need no one to defend it. And now, when I met the greatest manager in the history of professional wrestling, Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, it's my time to shine. Now it's my turn to be the best, the most pumped, and the most athletic giant in WCW. Now it's my turn to be the real face of WCW"... Chuck Palumbo rushes to the ring and attacks O'Haire. Bobby Heenan tries to help, but only distracts Chuck. Sean O'Haire uses it and does Widow's Maker on Palumbo. (70)

Backstage, Fit Finlay approaches Diamond Dallas Page. Finlay likes a fair fight. Last week Page and his mentee Ken Anderson didn't finish what they started because of Kanyon. Finlay offers Ken's services as a tag team partner tonight. (61)

Match 4: Diamond Dallas Page and Ken Anderson (w/ Fit Finlay) vs Chris Kanyon and Crowbar. Diamond Dallas Page tries to get to Kanyon, but he slips away. Finally DDP catches him at ringside. Meanwhile, Fit Finlay comes to the ring and hits Crowbar with the shillelagh. Anderson finishes him with a Reverse STO to win. (7:10) (66)

Last Week: Steve Corino and CW Anderson attacked attacked Arn Anderson, causing his neck injury to worsen. Arn had to go to the hospital.

WCW US Champion Ric Flair and Arn Anderson (in a wheelchair) in-ring promo. "A week ago Steve Corino stood in this very ring and talked about how I'm shadowing him, how I don't consider him a Horseman,, how I don't consider him... nobody, really! And that if I had handed him the torch of leadership, maybe nothing would have happened. Listen to me, buddy! You don't become great by accident. Nobody comes to you and makes you great. You become great when you're the best for a while. That's why the Flair and Anderson names will still be at the top of the list for the next 50 years. And you can't become a Horseman by crying. No one can come along and nominate you as a Horseman. It comes to you on its own. When the time comes. We could talk about this forever, but you made a huge mistake when you and your CW buddy hit my friend. You put him in a wheelchair! So - I will stop at nothing. Corino! I don't care about the terms of the match, I don't care about the time or the place. You and me, one on one. I don't care what will be on the line. You want the WCW US title?" Flair drops the belt and throws it in the ring. "It'll be on the line, no problem. I'll put it all on the line. My suit?" He takes off his jacket and tosses it to the title. "Take it! Rolex with diamonds?" He takes off his watch and throws it in the pile. "Take it! My house? My limo? My airplanes? Take it all. It could all be on the line. But you have to take the challenge."... 

… Steve Corino and CW Anderson at the ramp to answer. "After we shook your buddy a little bit, Ric, you're really willing to do a lot for our match. But you see, I was constantly being told by others what to do and how to do it. I was always doing the will of others. But now I'm my own boss. And if you want a match, just your championship belt isn't enough for me. Nor is your shabby suit or your watch. So I'm sorry, but no. But I can still kick your butt though."..

… Corino and Anderson rush to the ring and attack Ric Flair. Flair fights back, but the odds are uneven as Arn Anderson is unable to help. Flair and CW falls out of the ring. Meanwhile, Corino attacks Arn Anderson and slams him with an Old School Expulsion. Corino and CW leave while Flair tends to his friend. Arn again needs medical attention. Flair shouts, "Anything on the line! You hear me, anything!" Corino responds, "I'll let you know." (83)

After the commercial break, Arn Anderson goes to the hospital again.

Match 5: Mark Jindrak (w/ Ted DiBiase) vs Billy Kidman. Booker T comes to the ringside and goes after Ted DiBiase. Jindrak rushes to his manager's rescue, and he and Booker trade punches. Booker gains the upper hand and executes a Bookend onto the steel ramp. Billy Kidman wins by countout. (8:07) (63)

Backstage, a police car pulls up to the building. Furious Goldberg emerges and storms into the arena.

Match 6, #1 Contendership for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship: Ken Shamrock vs Sting. A great match by two masters. Both tries to put their opponent into a submission hold. Both were exhausted in the end. Sting misses with a clothesline and knocks out the referee. Scorpion Deathdrop on Shamrock. Goldberg comes to the ring... and takes Sting down with a Spear! Shamrock recovers and pins Sting as the referee counts to three. (16:10) (82)

Post match, Goldberg immediately attacks Ken Shamrock with a Spear! He then puts him into his own Ankle Lock! Shamrock screams in pain, and the show ends at this point.

Overall: 75

========================================

Memo 010: Major superstar leaves World Championship Wrestling

I told you before, so it is not a secret:

Diamond Dallas Page was a real outcast in the WCW locker room. Nobody talked to him. Nobody wanted to do anything with him. And when Kevin Nash got suspended, he really was all alone.

The overall morale in the locker room had dropped below the plinth, which couldn't help but affect the wrestlers performance.

So...

Page officially asked to be released from his contract with WCW, threatening to openly sabotage his participation in the shows.

I had no other choice.

That's why Diamond Dallas Page now has nothing to do with WCW.

What now with the plans for Starrcade, where the final match between Diamond Dallas Page and Chris Kanyon was scheduled?

Well, maybe we'll see at the next Nitro.

Edited April 29, 2023 by Dimos

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #30

 

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler open WCW Monday Nitro from Centurytel Center, Bossier City, LA.

Tonight - To ease the tension around the Goldberg/Ken Shamrock match, WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes decided that Goldberg will fight Shamrock's opponent of choice, and Ken in his turn will face the opponent of Goldberg's choosing, which is... Black Reign. 

Match 1: AJ Styles vs Christopher Daniels. We start the show off with an amazing match between two wrestlers. They put on an impressive performance for free TV. Towards the end, Styles breaks through a rolling lariat and executes a quebrada inverted DDt for two. Styles misses with a 450 Splash. Daniels goes for an Angel's Wings, but Styles blocks and rolls him up. Only for two. Samoan Drop from Daniels. Best Moonsault Ever... miss! AJ wins via Styles Clash right after that. (10:10) (73) Post match, 'The Future' Frankie Kazarian attacks exhausted Styles and performs Wave of the Future.

Last Week: Goldberg attacked Ken Shamrock and put him in an Ankle Lock.

Ken Shamrock in-ring promo. "It seems like over the last few months, Goldberg and I have developed a mutual self-loathing. That's why I'm excited to see how we handle it at Starrcade. I made Goldberg give up twice. He interferes in my matches. We pick each other's opponents. We try to mess with each other every chance we get. But you know what, Goldberg? I'm not hard to find when it comes to a fight. You can tackle me any way you want - I'm used to it. You can fight me as much as you want - I'm used to fighting the most dangerous fighters in the world. I'm ready to fight you anywhere because I'm the World's Most Dangerous Man. And at Starrcade, I'm going for your ankle and your title! As for tonight's opponent, I've chosen someone who's really tough to beat in the ring. I know that from experience. And who wants to get to you almost as much as I do. It's... STING!" (89)

In the office, AJ Styles demands a match against Frankie Kazarian. WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes reminds that he has other plans for Styles. AJ will fight for the WCW Cruiserweight Championship. At this point, Kazarian attacks Styles again! They brawl back-and-forth until WCW Security separate them. Dusty has had enough. He wants Styles in a title match, Styles wants Kazarian, Kazarian wants Styles... So be it! It will be a triple threat match for the WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Noble vs AJ Styles vs Frankie Kazarian. (41)

Last Week: Rey Mysterio defeated Homicide, but was attacked after the match by Chavo Guerrero and Hernandez. Rey was saved from serious injury only by WCW Security intervention.

Match 2: Rey Mysterio vs Hernandez (w/ Chavo Guerrero and Homicide). The significant size difference between the wrestlers made the match even more intriguing. Chavo and Homicide interfered, but the referee noticed and sent them backstage. Hernandez lifted Rey up for the final Release Powerbomb, but Rey quickly turned it into a hurricanrana and pinned Hernandez for the win. (5:55) (64) Post match, Chavo and Homicide returned to the ring to attack Rey, but Billy Kidman is here to save! (53)

After a commercial break, WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes confronts Chavo Guerrero and sets up a match between Chavo and Rey Mysterio at Starrcade. (63)

Chris Kanyon in-ring promo. He announces that Diamond Dallas Page had left WCW and would not be participating in their scheduled match at Starrcade. Kanyon then complains about older wrestlers who could not accept change and states that he intends to stay here and continue to entertain the WCW crowd, even if they did not deserve it. (74)

Backstage, Sean O’Haire (with two WCW World Tag Team Championship belts) and Bobby Heenan arrive at the arena. Dusty Rhodes is here to ask Sean to hand over the belts due not having a tag team partner to defend them. Sean refuses, stating that he is ready to defend the titles on his own. Dusty then advises to change his attire as his opponents are waiting for him in the ring. (74)

Match 3, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Sean O’Haire (w/ Bobby Heenan) vs Paul London and Brian Kendrick. The young and talented duo of Kendrick and London got off to a sharp start, and for a moment, it looked like they might actually become the tag team champions tonight. But O'Haire caught Kendring from springboard crossbody and took him down with the Widow's Maker. London tried to interfere but was met with the same move. One, two, three and O'Haire retains the titles. (5:38) (59) Post match, Chuck Palumbo is at the ramp. He calls the such title defense a joke and challenges O'Haire to a match at Starrcade where both titles will be on the line. Heenan tries to protest, but O'Haire quickly accepts the challenge, much to his manager's displeasure. (70)

Match 4: CM Punk, Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli vs Lance Storm, Jamie Noble and TAKA Michinoku. Each wrestler was able to showcase their skills, but the highlight of the match was when everyone was in the ring at the same time. Castagnoli and Noble falls out of the ring. Punk blocks Michinoku Driver and puts TAKA in Anaconda Vice, while Storm holds Hero in Half-Boston Crab at the same time. Punk and Storm turns up the pressure to make their opponents give up faster. But they tap out at the same time, resulting in a draw. (10:00) (66)

Backstage, Bobby Heenan is not happy that his client accepted Palumbo's challenge. O'Haire: "In case you don't get it - I am the most dominant force in WCW. I'm the champion. And I'm ready to prove it anywhere, anytime. Against any opponent. Including Palumbo at Starrcade!" (60)

Last Week: During the match between Mark Jindrak and Billy Kidman, Booker T attacked Mark's manager, Ted DiBiase.

Ted DiBiase (w/ Mark Jindrak) in-ring promo. “For the past few weeks, I've been trying to recruit Booker T into my team because I see great potential and opportunity in him. Booker T is the kind of stock I'm willing to invest in without hesitation because I know the return will be substantial. I want him to become the WCW World Heavyweight Champion, but as part of my Corporation. So, my main weapon, Mark Jindrak, interfered in Booker's match at Mayhem to lower his stock price. However, something went wrong, and that led to Booker committing the biggest sin imaginable. He attacked me, millionaire Ted DiBiase. You see, Booker, America is built on certain values, and none of those values say you can punch a millionaire in the face, at least not with impunity. You want me? Or Jindrak? You'll have Jindrak... at Starrcade!"

… Booker T at the ramp. He accepts the challenge and promises to make their stock collapse at Starrcade. Ted stops Booker and says he hasn't heard all the terms yet. "You see, neither I nor my clients fight just for fun. It doesn't make sense. It's shortsighted. That's why I propose we make it an exciting match. You get to face Jindrak, but you want me, right? If you win, you get five minutes in the ring with me, one-on-one. But if Mark wins, you become a Million Dollar Corporation employee and sign a contract with me. You'll be my property! Can you dig that?!" Booker T accepts the challenge and promises that Ted's five minutes with him will last forever. (81)

Match 4: Ken Shamrock vs Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell). What a match! Both wrestlers showed that they were ready to headline, judging by the ratings. The fans became more and more excited as the match progressed. Ken Shamrock works mostly on the leg of his opponent. Towards the end, Black Reign's leg starts to hurt badly. Shamrock does a hurricanrana and goes for an Ankle Lock. James Mitchell distracts him, allowing Reign to do Blackout. Only for two as Ken puts foot on the rope. Black Reign goes for a second Blackout, Shamrock counters into Ankle Lock! Mitchell interferes again, attacking Ken, leading to a disqualification. (8:43) (86) Post match, Ken Shamrock catches James Mitchell and puts him in an Ankle Lock to the delight of the fans. WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg rushes out to the ring and speared Ken, leaving him lying on the mat.

Last Week: Steve Corino and CW Anderson attacked Ric Flair and Arn Anderson, injuring Arn severely.

Backstage, Ric Flair is getting ready to come out for a promo. He asks Arn Anderson to stay in the locker room this time. 

After a commercial break, WCW United States Champion Ric Flair is here for a promo. “WHOOOOOOO! I'm here to talk about serious stuff, Steve Corino! You're hiding behind your gorilla, Anderson, instead of facing Nature Boy. You may want to be a Horseman, but you never will be. It's eating you up inside, buddy. Your gorilla will never be Arn Anderson, and you'll never be the Nature Boy or a Horseman. To be great, it takes more than beating someone who's been out of the game for a long time. You want to be the best? Get in the ring 350 times a year for 20+ years, sleep with 3,000 women, party with other locker room guys, and win the love of all those people in every city and every state you visit. WHOOOOOOOO! But I'm tired of our unfinished business. I want a match with you at Starrcade. You want my WCw United States Championshipon the line? Done. My suits, my limousines, my Rolexes? Done! Take it all, but accept the challenge! WHOOOOOOO!”...

… Steve Corino and CW Anderson at the ramp. Corino speaks: “WCW United States Championship? Okay. But I don't want your old man suits and everything. You come out here every week bragging. I don't have to. I show everything in the ring. While you're partying, I was winning people's love in smaller arenas and even basements. You never were there. You could never take it. You know what the difference between this and indy? In indy you really get beat up. If you can't take it, you disappear. I went through all of it. Now I want recognition. Recognition of who I am and what I've accomplished. That's why I accept the challenge. You and I at Starrcade. And I'll tell what I want on the line... I want two things, or this match won't happen. WCW United States Championship is one, and two: all rights to the Four Horsemen. Name rights, music rights, merchandise rights. I want to give these people the Horsemen they deserve. Real ones. You win, and I'm out of your life. If I win, neither you nor Arn have anything to do with the Horsemen. All rights belong to me." Ric Flair accepts the challenge, promising to erase all memory of Corino. (89)

Match 6, Non-Title Match: Goldberg vs Sting. Sting is proving to be a dangerous opponent for Goldberg. Goldberg attempts a piledriver, but Sting reverses it into his own piledriver! Sting throws Goldberg into the corner and does a Stinger Splash, and then again into the other corner and another Stinger Splash. Spear from Goldberg out of nowhere! 1...2... NO! Jackhammer attempt... blocked. Chop block from Sting. And Scorpion Deathlock right after it! Suddenly arena goes dark... Vampiro promo is shown on the titantron, distracting Sting. Goldberg takes advantage and quickly switches the hold to an Ankle Lock. Sting gives up. (14:25) (80)

Post match, Goldberg continues to keep Sting in the Ankle Lock. Referees and officials show up, but are hesitant to get into the ring. Ken Shamrock slowly walks to the ring... and that's where the show goes off the air.

Overall: 82

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #31

 

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler open the show. Tonight we are at Arco Arena, Sacramento, CA. And WCW Starrcade is only six days away! (81)

Tonight - Ric Flair and Lance Storm vs Steve Corino and CW Anderson. (54)

Tonight - Goldberg and Mark Jindrak vs Ken Shamrock and Booker T. (73)

Tonight - WCW President Eric Bischoff will return to Nitro for a special announcement! (72)

Match 1: AJ Styles and Jamie Noble vs ‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson) and Kaz Hayashi. Tenay reminds about triple threat for the WCW Cruiserweight Championship at Starrcade with Noble, Styles, and Kazarian competing. The teams have good chemistry in the ring. Noble jumps in with a springboard crossbody but misses and hits Styles instead. A misunderstanding between Styles and Noble leads to Kazarian taking advantage and pushing AJ into Noble before putting him down with Wave of the Future for the victory. (8:38) (77)

Last Week: Lance Storm and CM Punk were comparing their submission holds in six-man match. As a result, there a match between them scheduled at Starrcade.

Match 2: CM Punk vs Brian Kendrick. Kendrick goes for a Frog Splash, but runs into Punk's knees. Punk executes a spike DDT and puts Kendrick in Anaconda Vice for the win. (5:36) (70) 

CM Punk post-match promo. He proclaims that the Anakonda Vice is the most devastating submission hold in WCW, and he's willing to prove it to Lance Storm at Starrcade. (57)

Match 3: Sting vs Christopher Daniels. There's nobody in Christopher's corner for the match. Daniels tries every move in his playbook, but turns the tables on him with a bulldog, a Stinger Splash. Then Scorpion Deathdrop, which is followed by the Scorpion Deathlock, forcing Daniels to surrender. (6:18) (76) Post match, lights go out, and a Vampiro promo appears on the titantron, announcing "Vampiro vs Sting, the final chapter. Starrcade." (58)

Chris Kanyon in-ring promo. He reminds the audience that he doesn't have a match at Starrcade because Diamond Dallas Page was so scared of him that he ran away from WCW. Nevertheless, Kanyon promises to provide genuine entertainment to the WCW audience at Starrcade. He will be here... for a promo! The best entertainment promo ever. (70)

Chavo Guerrero (w/ LAX) pre-match promo. He reminds everyone that Dusty Rhodes scheduled him for a match against Rey Mysterio at Starrcade, but Chavo doesn't think Rey is worthy of that match. As he is not worthy of representing the luchador tradition. Unlike Chavo, a man that all of Mexico is proud of. And he aims to prove it at Starrcade. (67) 

Match 4: Chavo Guerrero and Homicide (w/ Hernandez) vs Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman. Kidman and Mysterio showed their excellent teamwork, reminding everyone of their Filthy Animals days. Rey Mysterio tags in and plants Homicide with a spinning DDT. 1...2. Chavo tries to break the hold but accidentally attacks Homicide instead. Mysterio sents Chavo out of the ring with a spinning kick. Hernandez catches Chavo. Kidman and Mysterio throws Homicide right into Hernandez and Chavo! All three fell to the ground. They started getting up... only to get a plancha from Rey and Shooting Star Press from Kidman! Back in the ring, Rey Mysterio executed a West Coast Pop on Homicide and made the pin for three. (7:39) (68)

Match 5: Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli vs Chuck Palumbo and Hugh Morrus. Although Hero and Castagnoli had more team experience, Palumbo and Morris were more expierenced overall. By the way, Hero and Castagnoli are back. They weren't introduced as The Band this time. And their ring attire had changed a bit. Chris Hero kicks Palumbo out of the ring with a Discus Big Boot. Sean O'Haire is here! He hits Palumbo head first into a steel post. With Palumbo out of the way, Hero and Castagnoli double-teamed Morris, ending with a Helicopter Crash and pinning him for three. (4:54) (66)

WCW United States Champion Ric Flair and Lance Storm backstage interview. Flair thanks Storm for agreeing to be his partner and calls him the future of WCW, unlike Corino. Flair vows to protect the legacy of the Four Horsemen and not let Corino's dirty paws touch it. (70)

Match 6: Ric Flair and Lance Storm vs The Enforcers (Steve Corino and CW Anderson). Lance Storm showed his teammate great respect. Steve Corino avoided any direct conflict with Ric Flair. At the end Ric applied the Figure-Four Leglock to Anderson and Storm applied the Half-Boston Crab to Corino. CM Punk is here! Storm is distracted by him and lets Corino go. Anderson taps out, but he is not a legal man. The referee deals with Punk and orders him to leave the arena. Meanwhile, Corino hit Flair with a brass knuckle and pins him for three. (11:32) (77)

Ken Shamrock and Booker T backstage interview. Ken Shamrock promised to make Goldberg give up on Starrcade, while Booker T anticipated getting five minutes with Ted DiBiase in the ring after beating Jindrak. (70)

Backstage, WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg is warming up, when he is approached by Ted DiBiase with an offer to join his Million Dollar Corporation. Goldberg stops it and threatens to shove Ted's million dollar up his millionaire ass if Jindrak will mess up tonight. (77)

Backstage, WCW President Eric Bischoff arrives. His will address the fans… NEXT! (67)

Eric Bischoff in-ring promo. “Thank you! I took a short break from all my bureaucratic business to come here because I have something important to tell you. It's been almost a year since I saw the press release with my own eyes. It said that WCW would continue to live on and that I would be responsible for its continued success. Then Monday Nitro appeared on Bravo TV. We were given only a couple of weeks or months at most to live, but look where we are now. No Hogans, Steiners, Pages, or Savages. We've got a whole cast of young stars: AJ Styles, CM Punk, Jamie Noble, Rey Mysterio, Chavo Guerrero, Kanyon…. And in six days, we'll have our biggest pay-per-view of the year - WCW Starrcade. We'll celebrate the fact that we're still here and we're alive. And it won't be the season finale; it'll be a continuation of what we're building. Nne of this would be possible without you, the loyal WCW fans. Every one of you is important to us. Starrcade is our way of thanking you. I have a personal surprise for you. At Starrcade, I'm going to give you something that will make many of you happy. A man will show up whose appearance here just a couple of months ago seemed impossible. But now he's here, he believes in us, and we believe in him. He will come to WCW in just 6 days. So wait for Starrcade. We're turning over a new page in WCW history. In the meantime, enjoy the main event of tonight's Nitro. Thank you!" (64)

Match 7: Goldberg and Mark Jindrak (w/ Ted DiBiase) vs Ken Shamrock and Booker T. Ken Shamrock tried to get to Goldberg, but WCW Champion didn't rush into the match. At the end Shamrock gets a hot tag. He dodges the Spear and tries to put Goldberg in an Ankle Lock. Goldberg quickly grabbed the ropes and rolled out of the ring. Jindrak attacks Ken, Shamrock quickly takes him down with a belly-to-belly suplex. Ankle Lock! Goldberg hesitates to get in the ring to save his partner. The commentators talk about the first time Goldberg had ever been afraid of anyone. Jindrak gives up. (12:38) (69)

Ted DiBiase walks into the ring with a chair but is blocked by Booker T. Booker T throws him to Shamrock... right into an Ankle Lock! Ted is in excrutiating pain! Shamrock holds him for a few seconds and lets him go. Ken and Goldberg exchange glances... And Starrcade is in just six days!

Overall: 70

==================================

World Championship Wrestling presents...

The Biggest Show of the Year!

WCW STARRCADE 2001

Final Card

WCW World Heavyweight Championship
Goldberg vs "The World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock

WCW United Stated Championship and All Rights for Four Horsemen on the line
"The Nature Boy" Ric Flair vs Steve Corino

WCW World Tag Team Championship
Chuck Palumbo vs Sean O'Haire (w/ Bobby "The Brain" Heenan)

WCW Cruiserweight Championship
Jamie Noble vs AJ Styles vs "The Future" Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson)

"Booker T's Contract vs 5 Minute with Ted DiBiase"
Booker T vs Mark Jindrak (w/ Ted DiBiase)

No DQ Match
Sting vs Vampiro

Lance Storm vs CM Punk

Rey Mysterio vs Chavo Guerrero

PLUS…

“Personal Surprise from Eric Bischoff” will debut in WCW!

Edited May 5, 2023 by Dimos

[DHK1989]

Goldberg

Steve Corino

Sean O'Haire

Frankie Kazarian

Mark Jindrak

Sting

CM Punk

Chavo Guerrero

[Dimos]

WCW Starrcade 2001

 

A beautiful video is shown for Starrcade, the main PPV of the year. Historical moments are featured, including the transition to the new WCW days. The main event of the night will be the WCW World Heavyweight Championship match between Goldberg and Ken Shamrock. (78)

Commentators Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcome the audience to the biggest PPV of the year... WCW STARRCADE! 

WCW President Eric Bischoff starts the show. delivers a speech about WCW and its new stars. He promises that in 2002 they will give an even better entertainment, featuring new stars and all the best that professional wrestling can give. 2001 was the year when 99% of people doubted WCW would still be alive, but they're here, and they're ready for the biggest show of the year. Eric teases with upcoming appearing of his new signing. But it's not the only gift from Eric to the fans. He noted that at the main PPV there was no WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship match scheduled. So he makes an impromptu match for those titles... and it is NOW! (69)

Match 1, WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship: Dark Society (Shannon Moore and Christopher Daniels) vs Brian Kendrick and Paul London vs Jung Dragons (Kaz Hayashi and Yang) vs TAKA Michinoku and Tajiri. The participants try their best, but the match doesn't turn out as great as expected. After the opening spot exchange, Paul London puts Daniels down with a hurricanrana. Kaz Hayashi attacks London and delivers a TKO. Hayashi and Young catch Kendrick and hold a double tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Dragons put Tajiri on the top rope... Hurricanrana from Yang! 1...2. TAKA Michinoku breaks the pin and performs Michinoku Driver on Yang. 1...2. Hayashi breaks the pin. All the competitors pour back into the ring, and in the turmoil, Christopher Daniels finishes Yang with Angel's Wings for three. (14:30)

Chuck Palumbo backstage interview. He talks about what the WCW World Tag Team Championship means to the WCW locker room and all wrestlers. He promises to get the titles back and then find the right teammate to defend them with honor and dignity. (60)

In pre-match promo Bobby Heenan introduces us to his client, the "The Face of WCW" Sean O'Haire, who will soon dominate all of WCW. 2002 will be the year Sean begins his quest for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, and we can all be witnesses to that. (63)

Match 2, WCW World Tag Team Championship: ‘The Face of WCW” Sean O’Haire (w/ Bobby Heenan) vs Chuck Palumbo. It was a real brawl between the two heavyweights. Palumbo knocks down O'Haire with a flying clothesline followed by a Reverse DDT. Bobby Heenan distracts Palumbo, allowing O'Heir to take advantage and hit him with a belly-to-back suplex. Both go to the ringside, where O'Haire sends Palumbo into the steel steps. While the ref is distracted, O'Haire hits Palumbo on the head with a chair, causing him to bleed. Half nelson suplex at the ring, but Palumbo kicks out at two. Jungle Kick from Palumbo out of nowhere, causing O'Haire to fly out of  the ring and hit the commentary table. Palumbo then chases his opponent. Heenan distracts him. Palumbo walks right into a bicycle kick from O'Haire. Back to the ring... Widow's Maker! 1...2...NO! Sean O'Haire goes onto the top-rope... Senton Bomb! And that's it. (11:51) (67)

Video footage about Sting and Vampiro rivalry, that started in 2000 and has continued with a little break for over a year. 

Match 3, No DQ: Sting vs Vampiro. Great match, that was perfect culmination of their long feud. At the end both wrestlers struggle to get up. Vampiro hits Sting with a piledriver, but Sting still manages to kick out at two. Vampiro climbs the top rope and attempts a missile dropkick, but Sting dodges and puts him into a Scorpion Deathlock. Vampiro eventually reaches the ropes. But Scorpion Deathdrop puts an end to this match. (13:55) (78)

Chris Kanyon in-ring promo. He talks about being the only one who knows how to entertain. Who is more interesting in the ring? Who looks better on TV? Who cuts better promos that him. Who's better than Kan... He is interrupted by... RODDY PIPER! Piper talks about how great it is to be back in the WCW ring, and how many people didn't believe the WCW was still alive, much like himself. Kanyon tells Piper to leave the ring and go back to the nursing home he escaped from. He claims that Piper didn't want to be here during its worst time, and that he only showed up now because guys like Kanyon resurrect WCW. Roddy Piper offers Kanyon to help him get out of that ring. Kanyon almost attacks, but changes his mind… only to make a cheap shot from behind! However, Piper quickly regains his momentum and knocks Kanyon down with a series of punches. Chris leaves the ring, and Piper poses for the fans. (76)

Ted DiBiase (w/ Mark Jindrak) backstage interview. Ted DiBiase promises to make Booker T work for him, and if he performs well, he could become the employee of the month. Eric Bischoff passes by. Tony Schiavone stops the interview and congratules Eric on signing Piper. Bischoff replies that it is not his surprise. His surprise is still to come. (62)

Video about rivalry between Booker T and Ted DiBiase. If Booker T wins tonight, Ted will have to spend 5 minutes in the ring one-on-one with him. If Mark Jindrak wins, Booker will be forced to sign a contract with the Million Dollar Corporation and work for Ted DiBiase. (55)

Match 4, Booker T's Contract vs 5 Minute with Ted DiBiase: Booker T vs Mark Jindrak (w/ Ted DiBiase). Booker T takes the lead with some impressive moves, but Ted DiBiasi interferes, allowing Jindrak to knock Booker off the clothesline. Jindrak attempts a suplex, but Booker blocks it and hits him with a Harlem Sidekick. Booker then climbs the ropes and lands a missile dropkick. Only for two. Jindrak counters with a powerful lariat, causing Booker to do a flip. Jindrak follows up with a sidewalk slam and prepares to execute the Mark of Excellence, but Booker counters with a Bookend. 1... 2... NO! Ted DiBiase puts Jindrak's leg on the ropes. Booker T sees it and goes after Ted. He chases DiBiase around the ring, Mark Jindrak catches him with a baseball slide. Back to the ring... Mark of Excellence! 1...2... NO! Jindrak wants to repeat the finisher. Block by Booker T and Bookend attempt... Ted DiBiase holds his leg. Jindrak takes advantage of the distraction and rolls up Booker with his feet on the ropes for the win. (15:17) (74)

CM Punk backstage interview. He boasts about being undefeated in WCW and having the best grappling skills and abilities. He believes his lifestyle gives him a competitive advantage over Lance, who he thinks should have stayed in ECW, where people only drink and shoot drugs. (53)

Match 5: Lance Storm vs CM Punk. A fantastic match full of drama and impressive technique. Both tried to put each other in their submission holds very early, but it wasn't that simple. So they moved on to simpler moves.  Punk catches Storm with a backdrop. Shining Wizard! 1...2...NO! Reverse Hurricanrana from Punk. 1...2...NO! Anaconda Vice! Lance found himself close to the ropes and grabbed onto them. Both get back to their feet. Punk comes with a Pepsi Plunge. 1...2...NO! Punk goes for a top-rope maneuver, but misses. Storm immideately puts him in a Half-Boston crab. Punk screams in pain and tries to reach the ropes. Just a little more... a little more... almost there... and he grabs onto the ropes! Both back to their feet. Superkick from Storm! 1...2...NO! Punk blocks some move from Lance and tries another Pepsi Plunge. Roll up from Storm, Punk counters with a roll up of his own... and grabs the tights. 1...2...3. Storm kicks out just a merely moment after third count. (16:44) (80)

A video aired showcasing the feud between Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero, which began when Chavo broke Juventud Guerrera's leg. Juvie was forced to leave WCW, and Chavo and his teammates tried to injure Mysterio after that as well. They failed, and tonight, Rey will get his revenge. (65)

Match 6: Rey Mysterio vs Chavo Guerrero (w/ LAX). In terms of ratings, this match was the best match of the year in the WCW. The match had a quick start with Rey Mysterio jumping onto the counter and Chavo hitting him with a dropkick, causing Mysterio to fly out of the ring and land awkwardly on his knee. Chavo Guerrero immediately started working on Rey's knee, trying to send him to the hospital like he did to his teammate Juventud Guerrera. Mysterio attempted to intercept the lead several times, but his injured knee hindered him each time. Rey Mysterio takes back advantage... but LAX interfere. The referee noticed and kicked them backstage! However, it still distracted Ryy, and Chavo knocked him down with a chop block to his sore knee. Rey kicks back with a hurricanrana. 6-1-9! West Coast Pop! 1...2...NO! Chavo goes for a Gory Bomb. Rey countered with an enziguri. Mysterio puts Chavo on the top rope for a hurricanrana attempt, but Chavo convertsH it into a super powerbomb. Frog Splash! 1...2...NO! Half-Boston crab from Chavo on an injured knee. Rey is awfully close to giving up but manages to reach the ropes. It takes too much of energy from Rey. Both are up... and Gory Bomb from Chavo. 1...2...3. (15:58) (88)

Ric Flair and Arn Anderson interview backstage. Flair talked about the WCW United States Championship and the Four Horsemen, both of which represented dominance in WCW. If someone wants to be the U.S. Champion, they have to beat the U.S. Champion. And if someone wants to be the Horseman, they have to beat the Horseman, and do it in style. WHOOOO! Arn added that Corino won't achieve a quarter of Flair's success, even if he tries really hard. Plus, Steve made the mistake of not finishing off Arn. Now, Arn is going to recover, get to Corino, and wring his neck so he can feel for himself what it's like.

Video highlights of WCW Cruiserweight division.

Match 7, WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Noble vs AJ Styles vs ‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson). The match was more of a spotfest, which ultimately hurt its quality. Kazarian, in particular, struggled to keep up with his more experienced opponents. There were numerous nearfalls that were interrupted by the third contestant. AJ lands a pumphandle backbreaker on Kazarian. Noble attempts to interfere, but ends up receiving a gutbuster. 1...2. Kazarian breaks the pin and delivers an inverted DDT on Styles. Frankie then puts the champion in a Cobra Sleeper, but AJ breaks the hold and sends Kazarian into the corner. However, Noble catches him with a Northern Lights Suplex! 1...2...NO! Noble tries a Jumping Tombstone on Styles, but Kazarian makes the save. Kazarian then lands the Wave of the Future on Noble! 1...2...NO! At the last moment, AJ Styles breaks the pin and quickly executes the Styles Clash on Kazarian. 1...2...3. We have a NEW WCW Cruiserweight Champion! (14:12) (70)

Steve Corino with CW Anderson backstage interview. Corino promises to win and recreate the best version of the Four Horsemen possible.

Match 8, WCW United States Championship and Four Horsemen’s rights on the line: Ric Flair (w/ Arn Anderson) vs Steve Corino (w/ CW Anderson). Who will win? Classic Horseman or the new one? That's what we'll find out. The wrestlers got off to a very slow start, with the first 5-7 minutes consisting mainly of a mat and technical wrestling match. Steve Corino attempted to get to Arn Anderson a couple of times, but Flair prevented him from doing so. Corino comes with a spinebuster. 1...2. Front suplex by Corino. 1...2. Ric Flair strikes back with eye rack. Couple of chops. CW Anderson jumps onto the apron, but gets a hit from Flair. Accidental ref bump. Chop block from Flair and Figure-Four Leglock! Corino screams and taps out... but the referee is still unconscious. CW Anderson is at the ring! Flair meets him with a series of punches. Steve Corino pulls out brass knuckles! Flair dodges and hit him in the face. The knuckles fell out of the ring... right near Arn Anderson. Arn tries to retrieve it. CW Anderson too... but Arn was first! Ric Flair asks to pass him the knuckles. Arn Anderson comes to him... and hits Flair in the face with them! Wait, what?! Steve Corino pins Flair. 1...2... and 3! We have a NEW WCW United States Champion! (14:57) (79)

Post match, Arn Anderson easily removes the protective corset from his neck, walks into the ring and hugs Corino and CW Anderson! Flair lays on the floor, his face drenched in blood and unable to believe what just happened. Arn comes to him... and punches him! Again! And again! He orders Corino and Anderson to lift Flair up... and delivers his famous Spinebuster! Arn, CW and Steve poses over the bloodied Flair and shows the sign of the Four Horsemen! (73)

Video promo about our main event. (76)

Match 9, WCW World Heavyweight Championship: Goldberg vs ‘The World's Most Dangerous Man’ Ken Shamrock. Ken Shamrock immediately utilized his UFC experience and attempted to take down Goldberg with the Ankle Lock in the opening minutes! Goldberg managed to get out of it. But now he Goldberg began avoiding Ken, refusing to approach him. Later Shamrock almost succeeded in capturing Goldberg in the Ankle Lock, but Goldberg twisted and grabbed his opponent in the Cross Armbar! Ken quickly breaks free of the hold, and he now looks at his opponent with respect. The match continies in a more traditional style. Backbreaker from Shamrock. 1...2. Shamrock knocked the champion out of the ring with a clothesline. Ken follows and gets caught into a spinebuster on the mat. Goldberg clears the commentary table, then picks Ken up... Shamrock rolls Goldberg into an Ankle Lock at ringside! Goldberg screams... and gives up! That don't count as they both outside the ring. Ken rolls Goldberg back to the ring and attempts to repeat the hold, but the champion quickly grabs the ropes. Goldberg blocks belly-to-belly suplex attempt and turns it into a powerful DDT. Powerslam! 1...2...NO! Spear... miss! Shamrock catches Goldberg into a German suplex... and another one... and another one! STF from Shamrock! Goldberg reaches the ropes. Both get up. Spear from Goldberg out of nowhere! 1...2... NO! Goldberg goes for a Jackhammer... Shamrock blocks and does belly-to-belly suplex. And now it's time... ANKLE LOCK! Now Goldberg is at the center of the ring and has no way out. Unless he does as he grabs the referee by the shirt and throws him out of the ring. Shamrock lets him out. Now Ken is confused as he doesn't know what to do. Shamrock decides to put Goldberg into another Ankle Lock, but Goldberg turns it out into a Cross Armbar. Shamrocks breaks free. And does Spear! Shamrock goes at ringside and tries to bring the referee back to life. Goldberg attacks him from behind and delivers Jackhammer through the announcers table! Back to the ring... and another Jackhammer! 1... 2... and 3! Goldberg retains the WCW World Heavyweight Championship again! (14:39) (84)

Post match, Goldberg is exhausted. The referee hands him the "big gold" title belt. But... there is a familiar music! The fans literally jump out of their seats...

Really?!...

... Indeed...

It's...

... SHAWN MICHAELS!

The Heartbreak Kid is here. He steps onto the ramp. He is at WCW Starrcade! Shawn Michaels looks at the ring and the World Heavyweight Champion with a smile. And the show goes off the air. See you tomorrow at Nitro!

Overall: 76

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #32

 

Last Night: The photo highlights of Starrcade, including Steve Corino's victory in the US Championship match, Goldberg's defense of the World Heavyweight Championship, and debut of Shawn Michaels. (74)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcome us to the last Monday Nitro in 2001, just a day after Starrcade!

WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes opens the show. He proceeds to make several announcements. Firstly, by his decision, the WCW World Tag Team Championship has been declared vacant. Therefore, once Sean O'Haire arrives in Richmond, he will be required to relinquish his championship belts, regardless of his opinion. Tonight we gonna see the start of a special wildcard tournament for the WCW World Tag Team Championship, with the finals taking place at WCW Sin in 4 weeks. Next... Tonight also we gonna see start of Triple Chance Cruiserweight Tournament.  It begins with an open battle royal for all cruiserweights, with the winner advancing directly to the final. The remaining six finalists will compete in 1-on-1 matches during the next Nitro. The winners of the semifinals and the battle royal will face each other in a 4-way match at WCW Sin. The victor will earn a WCw Cruiserweight Championship shot at the February PPV, WCW Superbrawl. And last, third, announcement... About WCW World Heavyweight Championship. After reviewing the wrestling stats from the past year, Dusty is ready to reveal the #1 contender for the title at Sin. Goldberg's opponent will be... Black Reign! And now, let's give a warm welcome to the reigning WCw World Heavyweight Champion...! (76)

... Goldberg does a short promo. He's ready to defeat Reign anytime, anywhere. Suddenly, the familiar music blares, causing the audience to leap out of their seats. This is it! Shawn Michaels steps into the ring, making his first appearance ever on WCW Monday Nitro!...

… Shawn Michaels takes the microphone and says, "Thank you! I'm sorry, Bill, that I had to interrupt your moment. I'm feeling a mix of emotions right now. It's my first time in the WCW ring, after all. It takes me back to the moment when I first ever stepped into the ring. I had the desire to win, to become a world champion, and to experience the glory, honor, and lavish lifestyle that comes with it. And I had it all. But then, an unfortunate incident in another company abruptly ended my career. Now, I can't step into the ring anymore, and I can't chase the world championship. So, I'm kinda surprised why WCW wanted me on their shows. But I do have a theory. Perhaps they see me as the face of WCW, a symbol for all the young guys backstage. Maybe they want me to be their advisor, to help take WCW to new heights. I'm not sure, but I'll do my best for it. The only thing is... I really wish my back was still in good shape. I would love to have one more match for that title, Bill. You're doing an outstanding job as the world champion, and it would be an incredible match." Goldberg and Shawn Michaels exchange looks, and HBK nods before exiting the ring to his music. (100)!!!!!"

Match 1, Triple Chance Cruiserweight Battle Royal: Air Paris, American Dragon, Brian Kendrick, Elix Skipper, Jack Evans, Julio Dinero, Kaz Hayashi, Low Ki, Matt Sydal, Paul London, Sonjay Dutt, Sonny Siaki, TAKA Michinoku, Tajiri, Yang. There were some seasoned cruiserweight division members as well as new talents making their WCW debuts. For instance, American Dragon, Jack Evans, Matt Sydal, Sonjay Dutt, and Sonny Siaki had their first Monday Nitro match. Mike Tenay gave a special mention to American Dragon, who had already achieved success in the indy and was personally trained by Shawn Michaels. To stay in the tournament, participants had to make it to the final 7. First four eliminations: Sonny Siaki, Sonjay Dutt, Yang, Jack Evans. Skipper and Low Ki tried to eliminate Dragon, but he managed to grab the ropes and return. American Dragon then took down Elix and Low Ki with a double DDT. Michinoku attempted a missile dropkick on Dragon but missed and hit Tajiri instead, causing him to fall out of the ring. Dragon eliminated Air Paris but was soon got Michinoku Driver and was eliminated himself. Matt Sydal went next, leaving us to the final 7: Brian Kendrick, Elix Skipper, Low Ki, Kaz Hayashi, Julio Dinero, Paul London, and TAKA Michinoku. Dinero was eliminated by powerful double kick from Skipper and Low Ki. Low Ki attempted to push London out of the ring, but Skipper ended up eliminating both of them! Kendrick caught Skipper in the Dragon Clutch, but Michinoku intervened and eliminated both of them. Immediately after, Kaz Hayashi attacked Michinoku and executed a piledriver, ultimately eliminating him and winning the Battle Royal. (11:17) (71)

Backstage, 'The Face of WCW' Sean O'Haire arrives with his manager Bobby Heenan, who carries the WCW World Tag Team Championship belts. Tony Schiavone meets them and asks about Rhodes' earlier comments. "I don't care about Rhodes. I will continie to defend MY titles. And if Rhodes doesn't like it, he can try to take it from me." (64)

Match 2, WCW World Tag Team Championship: ‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire (w/ Bobby Heenan) vs Simon Diamond and Johnny Swinger. Once again O'Haire showcases his power by catching a bouncing Diamond and slamming him down with a Bossman slam. He executes a DDT on Swinger and finishes off Diamond with a final Widow Maker for three. (4:59) (65)

Post match, Dusty Rhodes is here to demand the titles. O’Haire offers to come and get them. Dusty sends WCW Security, but O’Haire easily dispatches all of them. O'Haire tells that Rhodes has no power that can stop him. He takes the belts and leaves. (69)

Match 3, 1/4 Finals for WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli vs Fit Finlay and Ken Anderson. Finlay continues to mentor the young Anderson, and they had a strong start in their match. Finlay is ready to execute a Tombstone Piledriver on Castagnoli, but Hero hits them both with a Disqus Big Boot! Anderson rushes into the ring and get a Double Brainbuster from Hero and Castagnoli. The ref counts for three. (6:24) (58)

Backstage, Sting expresses his confusion to Dusty Rhodes about Black Reign beign the next contender. Rhodes explains it with a win/loss stats. Sting offers to assist Dusty with a delicate matter that only a few people can help with. After some negotiation, Sting and Rhodes strike a deal: Sting will provide his help, and in return, he gets a match with Reign, winner will become #1 contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. (72)

Ted DiBiase (w/ Mark Jindrak) in-ring promo. He reminds everyone that Jindrak defeated Booker T the previous night, which means according to the match rules, Booker T is required to sign a contract with the Million Dollar Corporation. Booker T now belongs to him — his name, his career, his titles — all under DiBiase's control. The match stipulates that Booker must sign the contract, or he will effectively end his wrestling career. And he can't survive without it. He will be unable to pay for his house or his children's education. Contract says that Booker T is obligated to participate in all matches sanctioned by Ted, while also being forbidden from touching DiBiase. He calls Booker T to make it official... Booker T is here. And he wants a clarification... Once he becomes Ted's employee, he can't touch him? DiBiase confirms. Booker T: "Then eat that, sucka!". Bookend for DiBiase! Mark Jindrak attacks Booker, but gets Axe Kick. Spinarounie. Only now Booker T signs the contract. (72)

Match 4, 1/4 Finals for WCW World Tag Team Championship: Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman vs Dark Society (Shannon Moore and Christopher Daniels) (w/ Vampiro). Does it mean that Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman are back as regular team again? We'll see. Moore and Daniels still hold the WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship, but now they have set their sights on the "adult" tag team titles. Kidman climbs the turnbuckle, but Vampiro gets on the apron and holds Kidman's leg. Moore takes advantage, springing off the ropes to perform a hurricanrana. Meanwhile, Christopher Daniels ducks Mysterio's attack and hits him with Angel's Wings. The referee counts for three. (9:25) (74)

WCW US Champion Steve Corino, CW Anderson and Arn Anderson arrive in a limo.

James Mitchell and Black Reign backstage interview. Whatever Sting may have promised Rhodes, Mitchell claims that he won't be able to fulfill it after tonight's encounter with the Black Reign. (53)

WCW US Champion Steve Corino, Arn Anderson and CW Anderson come to arena with the Four Horsemen's music. Arn grabs the microphone and expresses his gratitude to everyone who has shown concern for his health over the past month. He assures them that he is perfectly fine and has been all along. Arn explains that when he saw potential in CW Anderson and Steve Corino, he also saw an opportunity for them to extend his youth and prolong his careers, which was cut short by injury. He saw them as a chance to preserve the legacy of the Four Horsemen. Arn acknowledges that he has spent most of his life in Ric Flair's shadow, but being a part of the Four Horsemen is what will be remembered by the fans in the years to come. He reveals that Flair has always been the kind of person who tries to take everything for himself, even taking advantage of Arn's friendship when he needed it. In return, Arn ended up with a few removed vertebrae, a small pension from WCW, and the perpetual reputation of Flair's sidekick. He saw an opportunity to change all that by teaming up with CW Anderson and Steve Corino. He believes that Corino can surpass Flair as a champion, while CW Anderson has the potential to be even better than Arn himself. Arn sees his role as providing guidance from his own successful career, and together, they will become the best version of the Four Horsemen ever imagined…

… Steve Corino takes the mic. Corino acknowledges that they have performed in various wrestling rings, big and small, but it is with Arn as their teacher and mentor that they have found their path to the top. Their quest to create the ultimate incarnation of the Four Horsemen has just begun, starting with Corino's WCW US Championship victory and what they see as the end of Ric Flair's career…

… Nothing like that, as Ric Flair interrupts them! He has a few bruises and a bandaged head. Flair pulls out brass knuckles from his pocket and goes to the ring. WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes is here to stop him with the help of WCW Security. Rhodes understands Flair's emotions and offers a solution. Flair can choose his partner and face Corino and Anderson in a match scheduled for the following week. (72)

Match 5, #1 Contendership for WCW World Heavyweight Championship: Sting vs Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell). Sting blocks Blackout and delivers three consecutive Stinger Splash. Sting is ready for a Scorpion Death Drop... James Mitchell throws white powder into Sting's face. Black Reign capitalizes by executing a Blackout for a win. (9:53) (70)

Post match, WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg is here to stare down Black Reign. (80)

Overall: 77

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro heads to primetime!

Bravo! has announced that the WCW Monday Nitro show, produced by World Championship Wrestling, will move to primetime starting in January 2002.

Frances Berwick, Executive Vice President of Bravo Media, states, "WCW Monday Nitro consistently delivers impressive ratings and attracts a growing audience."

WCW Monday Nitro returned to television in May 2001 after a brief hiatus caused by the company's sale proceedings.

"The shift to primetime is a significant milestone for World Championship Wrestling," remarks WCW President Eric Bischoff. "I'm proud of everyone who contributed to saving WCW. The dedication of our team played a vital role in keeping World Championship Wrestling alive. Moving to primetime not only confirms our survival but also signifies our growth. To be honest, WCW has always belonged in primetime. We are excited to continue expanding the WCW brand as we work together."

=============================================

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #33

 

We have a new intro for WCW Monday Nitro. Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcome us from Xcel Energy Center, Saint Paul, Minesota. It's the first Monday Nitro in 2002 and first in prime time!

Tonight - Ric Flair and Sting vs Steve Corino and CW Anderson.

Tonight - WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg will be in action vs Vampiro.

Match 1, Triple Chance Cruiserweight Tournament: Brian Kendrick vs Low Ki. Kaz Hayashi has already secured a spot in the finals. Kendrick and Low Ki had a chance to join him since they were among the final seven competitors in last week's battle royal. The match itself wasn't bad, but the audience seemed disinterested. Lawler wonders where Low Ki acquired his ninja skills and questions his fluency in English. Low Ki attempts a Ki Krusher, but Kendrick rolls him for two. Both wrestlers quickly get back on their feet, and this time Low Ki catches his opponent with the Ki Krusher. The ref counts to three, and Low Ki goes to PPV just 2 weeks after his debut! (4:58) (26)

Post match, Kendrick barely has time to leave the ring before the 'The Face of WCW' Sean O'Haire with Bobby Heenan comes here. Widow Maker! O'Haire doesn't stop there - he hurls the cruiserweight out of the ring and unleashes a relentless assault, pummeling him against the steel barricade! We need to stop for a commercial break…

… after the commercial break, Sean O’Haire does a promo. He proudly proclaims himself as the greatest tag team champion in history, boldly asserting his readiness to defend those titles against any team in the world, single-handedly... Sting enters the ring! Sting acknowledges Sean's impressive physique and athleticism, admitting that O'Haire could indeed be the face of WCW. Sting even offers some advice, having been the face of WCW himself. O'Haire needs to go after the biggest, the baddest opponents. He needs to declare war on the entire nWo by himself. He needs to defend the company when it is needed. That's how one becomes the face of the company. As for the titles... Sting struck a deal with Dusty Rhodes last week. Dusty grants him a #1 contendership match, and in return, Sting assists Rhodes in taking the belt from Sean. And despite Sting's loss, he is committed to honoring his end of the bargain. O'Haire can make it all easy, or else they'll find themselves in trouble. O'Haire responds: "I need to go after the baddest opponents? You look bad enough for me, Sting!". O'Haire begins to approach Sting, but Sting smiles and reveals the baseball bat! O'Haire backs off. He gives Sting the championship belts... only to make a cheap attack from behind. Series of punches and Widow Maker attempt... Blocked by Sting. Sting launches his own series of punches and kicks O'Haire out of the ring. Sting retrieves the belts. It looks like the WCW World Tag Team Championship is back to WCW! (75)

Match 2, 1/4 Finals for WCW World Tag Team Championship: Johnny Swinger and Simon Diamond vs LAX (Homicide and Hernandez). LAX had no problem winning when Homicide performed Gringo Killer on Diamond. (5:12) (50)

Backstage, Sean O'Haire is furious and unleashes his anger at production set. Bobby Heenan tries to calm him down, but with no success.

Backstage, Ted DiBiase talks to Mark Jindrak and Booker T. Ted forgives Booker for what happened last week. However, today, Booker is working for him. Ted has arranged for Jindrak and Booker to participate in a tag team tournament, with the task of retrieving the WCW World Tag Team Championship for him. (74)

In the office, Jamie Noble asks WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes, why he is not included in the Triple Chance Cruiserweight Tournament. Rhodes reveals different plan: Noble will fight Frankie Kazarian next week to determine #1 contender for WCW Cruiserweight Championship at Sin. CM Punk enters, complaining that he kept his promise by defeating Lance Storm at Starrcade, yet he doesn't even have a match scheduled for tonight. Noble retorts that Punk seemed to have promised to make Lance give up, not just win. Punk is ready to make Noble surrender now, especially since Noble deserved it for bringing a drunk fool Marty Jannetty to WCW. Dusty Rhodes calms them down and makes a match between them. (62)

Match 3, 1/4 Finals for WCW World Tag Team Championship: Booker T and Mark Jindrak (w/ Bobby Heenan) vs Bobby Roode and James Storm. Roode and Storm is a very promising tag team, that already made a name for himself in NWA. Now they have their chance in WCW. Booker T blatantly sabotages the match. He fails to notice the tags, refuses to assist his partner, and simply lingers in his corner. Ted becomes furious. Taking advantage of Booker's distraction with the manager, Jindrak sneaks in a blind tag. Booker T enters the ring and initially states that he doesn't really want to fight. However, Storm launches a cheap attack from behind, forcing Booker T to defend himself. Harlem Sidekick for Roode, Axe Kick to Storm. Jindrak makes a pin for three. (6:02) (59)

Match 4: Jamie Noble vs CM Punk. Both used a lot of submission holds. Noble unveils a new side of himself by executing some intriguing holds. Northern Lights Suplex from him for two. Noble locks Punk in a triangle chokehold! CM Punk manages to reach the ropes. Spinning DDT from Punk and Anaconda Vice! Noble is forced to tap out. (6:25) (77)

Post match, CM Punk refuses to release Noble. Referees and road agents rush in to intervene, but Punk maintains his tight hold. Lance Storm finally makes the save! (58)

Backstage, Ric Flair thanks Sting for being his partner tonight. Sting brings back all the previous matches in that combination: he and Flair against some Horsemen... It didn't go well before. But now? He trusts Flair. Ric will be very sorry for himself, if he betrays that trust tonight. (75)

Four Horsemen arrive in a limo. Steve Corino sends Arn Anderson and CW Anderson to the locker room, as he has some things to do. (69)

Match 5, Non Title Match: Chavo Guerrero vs AJ Styles. Great match. Dropkick from Styles. Styles Clash attempt... Chavo blocks and delivers Gory Bomb. 1...2...NO! Frog Splash from Chavo... missed. Now AJ Styles goes to the top rope. 'Future' Frankie Kazarian and Torrie Wilson come to the arena. Styles is distracted. It is enough for Chavo to do a superplex followed by Frog Splash. 1...2...3. (6:53) (79)

Post match, WCW US Champion Steve Corino is here. "Congratulations on the win, Chavo. That was truly impressive. We're all amazed by your performance. The crowd here is impressed too. Now, I have both a suggestion and an apology for you. First, let me apologize for my involvement in taking the U.S. title away from you at Halloween Havoc. It was purely business, and I want you to know that I hold great respect for you as an athlete. You see, we're in the process of building a new version of the Four Horsemen here—a better version. And you, Chavo, are a perfect fit. You're just like us. Throughout your entire career, you've been overshadowed by guys like Flair or Sting. You've given your all, just as I have in the basements and small indie companies. But together, you and I can give these people the best show imaginable. That's what the new Four Horsemen should represent—youth, talent, and success. It's time to move away from the old guys, like Flair, and embrace the future. So here's my suggestion, Chavo Guerrero. Make the best move of your career and become a member of the Four Horsemen. Let's rise to the top of WCW together." Corino extends his hand to Chavo.  Guerrero hesitates. He glances at the audience, who clearly disapprove of this proposition. Chavo states that he needs some time to think about it and exits the ring. Corino: "OK, Chavo. Take all the time you need. But deep down, you know that we're the driving force in this industry. It's in your best interest to be with us."

Chris Kanyon in-ring promo. He runs down Roddy Piper and complains about being ignored again. "You know, not too long ago, I was offered a chance to go to Hollywood. I was promised a ton of money for my entertainment skills, with the notion that I'd be better off there than in WCW. But I turned it down. See, in addition to my cosmic level of entertainment, I'm also an innovator of violence. The ring is where I truly shine and captivate. That's why it's doubly frustrating that I still don't have a match tonight. Because..."...

... He is interrupted by Shawn Michaels. "Nice to meet you. I'm the Heartbreak Kid. I apologize for cutting you off, but I couldn't bear to listen any longer. Especially when you mentioned Roddy Piper's name. You see, I entered wrestling when Piper was still kicking ass. He was a true mentor to all of us. When we shared locker rooms, he was just as passionate about criticizing the new generation as he is now. He used to say that his generation was accustomed to making things happen if they wanted something. If you want something, then go out there and get it. That applies to you too, Chris. Now, I may be new here... But from what I see, all you do is come out here and complain about how people don't appreciate your entertainment and in-ring skills. Instead of doing what guys from Piper's generation or even my generation would do—go out there and take what's rightfully yours! Oh yeah, and let's talk about entertainment. No one entertains better than HBK."...

... Kanyon responds: "You're here to entertain? Okay, but remember, we're in the wrestling business. If we wanted pure entertainment, we'd hire a clown. You can stroll around here, cutting promos and targeting everyone... But what the fans want to see are wrestlers. So, Shawn, how's that working out for you? How's your back? Does it still ache? Let me tell you something. You can show up every week, but in a month, a year, or a couple of years, it'll get stale. And I'll still be here, delivering captivating wrestling matches. So, if you want to talk, I'm not interested. But if you want to wrestle, you know where to find me. In the meantime, I don't need advice from a washed-up veteran who was deemed unnecessary by another company." Kanyon leaves the ring. (93)

Match 6, Non Title Match: Goldberg vs Vampiro. Vampiro goes for a top-rope crossbody, but Goldberg catches and takes him down with a powerslam. Spear! Jackhammer! And that's it. (5:23) (77)

Post match, James Mitchell at the ramp. "Goooldberg! You're an unstoppable force. You've annihilated all of your opponents, just as expected. But Sin has a roadblock waiting for you on your champion's path. You may be the most pumped up, the fastest, the most powerful, but what awaits you at Sin transcends human capabilities. And that's just a glimpse of what's to come." Lights out. They're back - and Black Reign with the steel steps is standing behind Goldberg. BAM! Steel steps shot to the head. Goldberg drops to his knee. Another shot! And another! And another! Goldberg is laying down. His head is drenched in blood. Black Reign takes the WCW World Heavyweight Championship belt. Goldberg struggles to get back to the feet and grab the belt, but he’s soaked in blood and falls back down. (73)

Match 7: Ric Flair and Sting vs Steve Corino and CW Anderson (w/ Arn Anderson). There was a tension in the match as everybody was waiting for a swerve. But Flair remained loyal to his word. Hot tag to Sting in the end. Stinger Splash on Anderson! Stinger Splash on Corino! Arn Anderson attempts to enter the ring, but Sting catches him and executes a Scorpion Deathdrop, much to the delight of the fans! Sting throws CW to the ringside and follows him. In the ring Ric Flair puts Corino in Figure-Four Leglock! Sean O'Haire runs to the ringside... and slams Sting into the steel steps! CW Anderson reenters the ring and breaks the hold. Spinebuster on Flair! Steve Corino finishes the match with an Old School Expulsion. (14:10) (77)

Post match, happy Sean O’Haire watches from the ramp as Sting is laying down unconscious and Horsemen continue to beat down Flair.

Overall: 80

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #34

 

Last Week - Sean O'Haire attacked Sting during the main event, helping the Four Horsemen to beat Sting and Ric Flair. (65)

WCW Monday Nitro kicks off from Allen County War Memorial, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler are our annoucing team.

Tonight - Ric Flair and Sting will get their revenge in a match aganst Steve Corino and Sean O'Haire. (65)

Tonight - Piper's Pit will make its WCW debut, and the guest will be #1 contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship Black Reign!

Match 1, Triple Chance Cruiserweight Tournament: Elix Skipper vs Paul London. This match will determine the third participant in the #1 contendership for WCW Cruiserweight Championship match at Sin. Paul London quickly takes the lead and impresses the fans with a Standing Shooting Star Press. Only for two.  Elix Skipper catches London with a Rock Bottom on the knee! Skipper wins via Play of the Day. (5:23) (62)

Last Week - Intense promo exchange between Chris Kanyon and Shawn Michaels. (75)

Chris Kanyon in-ring promo. “I'll admit, I was a little angry at you after everything that happened last week. But then, I forgave. I understand that I have no reason to be upset with you for wanting Shawn Michaels here, especially in Indiana. My jacket is worth more than your trailers. Throughout my entire career, you've looked down on me and preferred guys like Michaels. But you know what? HBK didn't care about you. He was making money up north while you were looking at me and other guys here in WCW. I have no reason to be mad at you for that. You react like primitive people should react. You don't understand talent. I forgive you for that.  But let me tell you something. Whether you like it or not, HBK is an old and worn-out veteran who won't ever compete in this ring. But if he could, I would defeat him and show you all what real talent, innovation, and entertainment are. Because I'm better than Shawn Michaels was in his prime. I'm better than Bret Hart at his best. I'm better than Sting and Flair during their peak years. In fact… No one is better than Kanyon.”...

… The fans chant "We want Michaels", but it's Lance Storm who enters the ring. "I believe, and I'm sure they'll agree with me, that you're delusional. From the start of my career, I aspired to be like Shawn Michaels, my mentor Bret Hart, Sting, and Flair. Those guys earned their reputations by stepping into that ring and delivering live performances, just as you're talking about. All you do is boast about how tough you are. But you know what? When I joined WCW, I knew I had to make an impact. Every week, I gave my best in the ring. Every week, I strived to reach the level of wrestlers like HBK or Sting. I won the WCW US Championship, Hardcore Championship, and the Cruiserweight Championship. I did not complain. I prove them wrong. Maybe you should give it a try"...

… Kanyon challenges Storm to a match to show him what top-notch talent looks like. Lance accepts. As Lance Storm is about to exit the ring, Kanyon cheap attacks! Lance Storm fights back and even prepares for Sweet Chin Music! Really? CM Punk intervenes. He and Kanyon join forces... until Shawn Michaels comes to save. HBK and Storm handshakes. (63)

Match 2: Kaz Hayashi and Low Ki vs American Dragon and Brian Kendrick. Kaz Hayashi and Low Ki deliver a double superkick, knocking Dragon out of the ring. Hayashi follows up with a Hayashi Cutter on Kendrick to win the match. (5:35) (72)

Match 3, Semifinals for WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli vs Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman. Hot tag to Rey Mysterio. Mysterio hits a hurricanrana on Castagnoli and follows it up with another one on Hero! Kidman climbs the top rope. Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore is here to get their revenge for losing to Rey and Billy! Daniels pulls Mysterio out of the ring to deliver Angel's Wings. In the ring, Kidman receives a double superplex and a Disqus Big Boot from Hero. 1...2...3. (7:17) (76)

The Four Horsemen arrive at the arena in a limo. (63)

Backstage, Ted DiBiase expresses his displeasure with Booker's behavior in last week's tag team match and reminds him that he works for Million Dollar Corporation. Jindrak has a singles match tonight, and Ted is relying on Booker's assistance. Booker T doesn't appear to be paying much attention. (78)

Backstage, WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes welcomes Roddy Piper and wishes him luck with the first episode of Piper’s Pit at Nitro. (75)

“Piper’s Pit”:
Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell) is our guest. Mitchell begins speaking, but Piper interrupts him. He invited Black Reign, #1 contender for WCW World Heavyweight Championship, not his talking parrot. James Mitchell smiles: "Ah, good old Piper the Clown. Let me tell you this. The man standing in front of you is a future WCW World Heavyweight Champion. But more importantly, he will achieve far greater success in this business than you ever did with your silly faces, smirks, and clown jokes." Piper retorts that he has no issue with Reign as Reign is a serious athlete. However, Roddy can still kick Mitchell's ass. Black Reign attacks Piper and is ready to destroy him... but WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg saves him. Mitchell throws white powder into the champion's face. Black Reign takes advantage and performs Blackout through the table. Reign and Mitchell quits the ring. Goldberg recovers fairly quickly but holds his back in pain. (87)

Match 4: Chavo Guerrero vs Mark Jindrak (w/ Ted DiBiase and Booker T). Ted DiBiase climbs up on the apron, but Chavo knocks him down. Guerrero evades a superkick and counters with a rolling vertical suplex. Chavo climbs the top rope. Ted calls for Booker T to intervene, but Booker ignores him, pretending not to hear. Meanwhile, Chavo wins via Frog Splash. (5:44) (74)

Post match, Ric Flair is here! He knows that Chavo has received an offer to join the Four Horsemen. Under different circumstances, Flair would readily agree that Chavo is the most deserving candidate. Their match was one of Flair's toughest, and Chavo deserved to remain the WCW US champion. But Flair has his own offer to Chavo. Flair has a tag team match against Steve Corino and CW Anderson scheduled for Sin, but he lacks a partner since Sting is preoccupied with Sean O'Haire. Ric Flair offers Chavo to become his partner and get his revenge. Chavo thanks for offer, but leaves the ring without an answer. (88)

Match 5, #1 Contendership for WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Jamie Noble vs ‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson). WCW Cruiserweight Champion AJ Styles joins the announcers. Jamie Noble leaps off with a top-rope moonsault — only to land on Kazarian's knees! Frankie swiftly attempts a Wave of the Future, but Jamie Noble reverses it into a chokehold. Kazarian manages to reverse it into a roll up with his feet on the ropes. 1...2...3. (10:57) (76)

Post match, Kazarian attacks Noble and does Wave of the Future, before AJ Styles drives him away. (53)

Sting backstage interview. He personally requested a match against Sean O'Haire at Sin and got it. Now he is ready to prove to O'Haire that earning the title of "The Face of WCW" requires more than just empty talk. (62)

Match 6: Ric Flair and Sting vs Steve Corino (w/ CW Anderson and Arn Anderson) and ‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire (w/ Bobby Heenan). The managers actively interfered in the match, giving Corino and O'Hair the upper hand for most of the match. Sting receives a hot tag. Stinger Splash on Corino. Stinger Splash on O'Haire... Sean catches him and takes down with a belly-to-belly suplex. Low blow from Ric Flair! Flair throws O'Haire out. Corino attacks Flair from behind and goes for an Old School Expulsion... Flair rolls him up for three. (10:13) (79)

Post match, we see that Chavo Guerrero watched the match. 

Match 7: Lance Storm vs Chris Kanyon. Awesome match. Storm with a cradle piledriver for two. Half-Boston Crab, but Chris was too close to the ropes. Kanyon dodges the superkick… Flatliner! 1…2…NO! Kanyon argues with the ref. He goes for a second Flatliner, but Lance rolls him up into the Half-Boston Crab again! Chris Kanyon almost gets the ropes, but Storm pulls him back to the center. CM Punk is here. He distracts Storm allowing Kanyon to escape. CM Punk and Lance Storm argue. Lance turns around and gets Flatliner. 1...2...3. (14:25) (81)

Post match, CM Punk and Chris Kanyon beat down Lance Storm. Shawn Michaels saves him. Sweet Chin Music for Kanyon! And that’s it for tonight. (71)

Overall: 78

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #35

 

Last Week - Shawn Michaels saved Lance Storm from Chris Kanyon and CM Punk, delivering long-awaited Sweet Chin Music to Kanyon. (75)

Shawn Michaels opens the show. "It was an incredible feeling to deliver Sweet Chin Music once again after such a long time. I wish I could do it more often, but my back is still recovering from what happened last week."...

… CM Punk interrupts! “Take a good look at me. You see the new Shawn Michaels. Time will pass, and they will remember my matches, my moments, the crazy things I did in the ring. You and I share something in common, but you know what sets us apart? My moments will endure longer. They won't end with a single match when my back gives out. Do you know why? Because I treat my body like a sacred temple. What did you do for your body? You filled it with alcohol. You put pills and drugs into it. You thought it would last forever. So you can come out here and reminisce all you want... or you can face reality, look in the mirror, and see who you really are and what you've done to your body. And then walk away. Make room for future superstars like me."...

HBK: "You know, Punk, you're right about one thing. I haven't always made the best decisions in my career. I haven't always treated my body the way I should have. But every time I stepped into that ring, I put my body on the line for all these people. And yes, you're right about living a healthy lifestyle. But if everyone thought that way, the world would be incredibly boring. Just as boring as you are."... CM Punk: "Am I boring? Am I boring? You can complain all you want about your back, but let's put that aside for one night, for one match. Tonight, on Monday Nitro, so I can retire you once and for all!"...

... HBK rejects. Then Punk informs him that he will retire HBK without a referee or a ring bell... Punk attacks Shawn Michaels. HBK tries to fight back, but Chris Kanyon joins the attack! Finally, Lance Storm makes the save. From the ramp CM Punk challenges them to a tag team match. Shawn rejects again, but thinks that Storm won't have a problem to find himself a partner. So we have our main event: Lance Storm and his partner vs Kanyon and Punk. (84)

Tonight - Ric Flair vs ‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire. 

Match 1, Triple Chance Cruiserweight Tournament: TAKA Michinoku vs Julio Dinero. This match will determine the final competitor in the Sin #1 contendership match for WCW Cruiserweight Championship. Dinero attempts to target Michinoku's leg, but TAKA breaks through with a shining wizard. Followed by the Michinoku Driver and a pinfall. (5:46) (73)

In the office, Kaz Hayashi and Low Ki speak. Hayashi is speaking rapidly in Japanese, while Low Ki hisses and communicates in an incomprehensible language. Looks comical. Dusty Rhodes holds onto his temples, exclaiming that he's been with them for 15 minutes and still doesn't understand what the hell they want. Hayashi and Low Ki seem to be expressing that they are not a bad team and that they need a match. Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman enter. They request a match against Moore and Daniels for the WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship at Sin. Dusty Rhodes yells that everyone is driving him crazy. Mysterio and Kidman will get their title match, and tonight they will face Hayashi and Low Ki. (49)

Backstage, Shawn Michaels meets American Dragon. HBK is pleased to see his student getting an opportunity in the wrestling world and wishes him good luck in the match.

‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian and Torrie Wilson pre-match promo. Torrie states that you don't have to wear masks, have a peculiar name, or possess an obscure style to be the future of professional wrestling. Winning is enough. Kazarian will win tonight and in six days at Sin he will become the WCW Cruiserweight champion. (46)

Match 2: ‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson) vs American Dragon. Great technical performance. American Dragon surprised the audience with some impressive takedowns. He applies a guillotine choke in the end. Torrie Wilson distracts him. Kazarian uses it and hits Wave of the Future. 1...2...3. (6:48) (73)

Post match, Frankie Kazarian continues to attack Dragon until WCW Cruiserweight Champion AJ Styles makes the save. (42)

In the office, CM Punk complains about Shawn Michaels. Dusty reminds that he has a problem with Lance Storm. Punk retorts that he has beaten Storm before. Rhodes then reminds him that CM Punk never made Storm submit as he promised. Dusty Rhodes makes a match for Sin: CM Punk vs Lance Storm in a submission match. (57)

Match 3: Kaz Hayashi and Low Ki vs Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman. Hayashi and Low Ki attacked before the bell to gain an early advantage. Later Low Ki does a Tidal Crush on Mysterio. Ki Krusher attempt, but Kidman saves his partner. Hurricanrana by Mysterio. Kidman goes the top rope to finish the match... WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore are here. Moore shoves Kidman down. Mysterio jumps with quebrada onto Daniels. Meanwhile, in the ring Hayashi hits Kidman with the Hayashi Cutter. Ki Krusher from Low Ki, and that' it. (8:12) (76)

“Piper’s Pit”:
Last week's debut edition of the Pit encountered some difficulties. However, there will be no difficulties today because his guest is none other than WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg! Piper asks about the upcoming match at Sin. Goldberg responds that he's not one for talking, he prefers taking action. Those who enjoy talking can go on various talk shows, but he's focused on preparing for his match. He's about to leave the ring... when lights go out. Arena enveloped in fog. Out of the fog emerges Black Reign and floats to the ring above the ground, making the entrance similar to Seven's gimmick. Goldberg is ready to fight. Wait... that figure is just a mannequin! Real Black Reign is behind Goldberg! Blackout through the table once again! (92)

Backstage, Ted DiBiase is angry with Booker T not helping Mark Jindrak last week. Tonight there is no place for mistakes as they have an opportunity to secure a spot in the WCW World Tag Team Championship match at Sin. (55)

Ric Flair backstage interview. Flair is still waiting for Chavo Guerrero to make his choice and hopes he chooses wisely. If Chavo says no, Ric is prepared to compete at Sin alone and prove who the real Horseman is. (74)

Match 4, Semifinals for WCW World Tag Team Championship: Booker T and Mark Jindrak (w/ Ted DiBiase) vs LAX (Homicide and Hernandez). Homicide and Hernandez demonstrate great teamwork, unlike Booker and Jindrak. Booker T once again intentionally sabotages the match. In the end Mark Jindrak has enough and confronts his partner. Booker T answers by hitting with a Harlem Sidekick, but misses and takes down Homicide! Jindrak seizes the opportunity and finishes off Homicide with Mark of Excellence. (7:12) (55)

Post match, Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli attack Booker T as he was closer to them than Jindrak. Mark wants to help, but is stopped by Ted DiBiase. (55)

Chavo Guerrero arrives at the arena.

‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire and Bobby Heenan backstage interview. O'Haire emphasizes that WCW needs to move forward into the future with athletes like himself. O'Hair promises to retire Flair today. (69)

Match 5: Ric Flair vs ‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire (w/ Bobby Heenan). O'Haire displays superior power, but Flair relies on his experience and cheating. Bobby Heenan interferes in the match, but the referee catches it and orders him to leave the arena. Flair targets leg and later applies Figure-Four Leglock. Steve Corino and CW Anderson make their way to the ring. Flair breaks the hold and invites them to come inside. Sean O'Haire uses the distraction and hits Widow Maker. 1...2...NO! O'Haire breaks the pin himself. Senton Bomb! 1...2...3. (10:11) (71)

Post match, Four Horsemen and O’Haire beat down Flair. Sting is here to save, but it’s still 3-on-2 (4-on-2 if we count Arn). Chavo Guerrero runs to the ring! He attacks Horsemen! Guerrero, Sting and Flair clean the ring… and it looks like we have Flair/Guerrero vs Corino/Anderson match at Sin. (75)

Shawn Michaels joins the announcers. 

Match 6: Lance Storm and mystery partner vs Chris Kanyon and CM Punk. Partner turns out to be... Ken Shamrock! Kanyon and Punk attempted to keep Ken Shamrock out of the ring. Storm knocks Kanyon down with a dropkick and tags Shamrock in. German Suplex for Punk! Belly-to-belly suplex to Kanyon! Kanyon tries to save the match by grabbing a steel chair at ringside... but he is stopped by Sweet Chin Music from Shawn Michaels! Ken Shamrock puts CM Punk into Ankle Lock. Punk taps out. (14:12) (86)

Post match, Shawn Michaels, Lance Storm and Ken Shamrock celebrate. See you at WCW Sin!

Overall: 80

 

================================================

WCW Sin 2002

Final Card

WCW World Heavyweight Championship
Goldberg vs Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell)

"The Nature Boy" Ric Flair and Chavo Guerrero vs Steve Corino and CW Anderson (w/ Arn Anderson)

WCW World Tag Team Championship
Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli vs Booker T and Mark Jindrak (w/ Ted DiBiase)

"The Face of WCW" Sean O'Haire (w/ Bobby Heenan) vs Sting

Submission Match
Lance Storm vs CM Punk

WCW Cruiserweight Championship
AJ Styles vs "The Future" Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson)

WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship
Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore vs Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman

#1 Contendership for WCW Cruiserweight Championship
Elix Skipper vs Low Ki vs Kaz Hayashi vs TAKA Michinoku

[DHK1989]

Goldberg

Steve Corino and CW Anderson

Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli

Sean O'Haire

CM Punk

AJ Styles

Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore

TAKA Michinoku

[Vandal]

Goldberg

Corino/CW

Hero/Claudio

Sting

Punk

Styles

Mysterio/Kidman

TAKA

[Dimos]

WCW Sin 2002
 

Intro video for WCW Sin 2002. The main emphasis is that 2002 opens a new era for WCW. Plus moments from storylines involving Ric Flair and the Four Horsemen, as well as Goldberg and the Black Reign.

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler welcome us at the first PPV of 2002, from Conseco Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Match 1, #1 Contendership for WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Elix Skipper vs Low Ki vs Kaz Hayashi vs TAKA Michinoku. After the initial exchange of quick moves, chairs and ladders went into action. Well, there is no DQ, so you can't lose. But you can gain a lot by performing the right move with the right weapon. STO face-first into the ladder for Skipper by TAKA Michinoku. 1...2. Hayashi climbs the ladder. Low Ki stops him with a tough kick and does a German Suplex. Michinoku superkicks Low Ki, climbs the top rope... Moonsault! 1...2...NO! Michinoku goes for a Michinoku Driver, but is attacked by Skipper. Hayashi kicks them both out of the ring with a dropkick, picks already unconscious Low Ki... Hayashi Cutter! 1...2...3. Michinoku almost won, but it's Kaz Hayashi who becomes the next contender for WCW Cruiserweight Championship. (13:44) (71)

Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli backstage interview. They call themselves the most talented team to appear in WCW. They have talent, athleticism and team spirit, all things Jindrak and Booker don't have. So tonight they gonna become WCW World Tag Team champions for the first time. (57)

Match 2, WCW Cruiserweight Championship: AJ Styles vs ‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian. The wrestlers started off slowly, but they eventually picked up the pace and delivered a solid performance. Styles hits Kazarian with a Hangman's neckbreaker. 1...2. Kazarian counters and locks in a submission hold he calls Back to the Future! 1...2. Kazarian attempts a second similar hold, but AJ blocks it and knocks his opponent off with a bicycle kick. 1...2. AJ goes for a Styles Clash, but Kazarian reverses it into a roll up. 1...2. Kazarian goes to the top rope, but gets a Pele kick. Styles ducks underneath him and delivers a Crusifix Bomb. 1...2...NO! AJ Styles climbs the top rope, but Kazarian stops him with a superkick. Both are on the top rope... Kazarian attempts a Wave of the Future... Styles blocks it and prepares for his own move... Kazarian doesn't give up. Styles then pushes Kazarian down and performs the Spiral Tap. 1...2...3. (14:52) (74)

Ted DiBiase, Mark Jindrak and Booker T backstage interview. Ted urges Booker to step up his game and win the WCW World Tag Team Championship for them. (63)

Match 3, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli vs Mark Jindrak and Booker T (w/ Ted DiBiase). Booker T tried to ignore the match again, but quickly found himself provoked, leading to an active and intense match this time. Hero and Castagnoli dominated for the majority of the bout. Towards the end, Booker T receives a hot tag. However, he misses with a Harlem Sidekick and inadvertently hits his groin on the ropes. Jindrak takes the tag from him and delivers a spear to Castagnoli. Hero receives a Mark of Excellence. 1...2...NO! Hero breaks free and retaliates with a devastating Disqus Big Boot. 1...2. Booker T breaks up the pin. He lands an Axe Kick on Hero, but unfortunately, he is not the legal man in the ring. Ted DiBiase climbs onto the apron and engages in an argument with the referee. Seizing the opportunity, Hero strikes Jindrak with the championship belt, then sends Booker T out of the ring. Castagnoli capitalizes and secures the victory. 1...2...3. We have the NEW WCW World Tag Team champions. (13:51) (65)

'The Face of WCW' Sean O'Haire and Bobby Heenan backstage interview. Heenan reminds everyone of his disdain for Sting and declares that O'Haire, his chosen weapon, would love to retire him., as this company is in need of new heroes. (62)

Match 4, WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship: Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore (w/ Vampiro) vs Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman.  Christopher Daniels locks Mysterio in the Camel Clutch. He executes the Camel Clutch Slam and applies the Camel Clutch once again. He then tags in Shannon Moore. Moore chokes out Rey and transitions into a surfboard hold. Rey Mysterio manages to break free and quickly tags in Kidman. Billy Kidman bursts into the ring, taking down all his opponents. He delivers a double bulldog on Moore and Daniels. Kidman lifts Daniels up for a suplex, and at the same time, Rey leaps off the ropes with a crossbody! 1...2...NO! Shannon Moore breaks up the pin and hits Kidman with a Rocker Dropper. Mysterio attacks Moore. sends him flying with a hurricanrana into the ropes. Rey attempts the 6-1-9, but Vampiro pushes Moore out of the way, causing Rey to miss. Rey attacks Vampiro and does a hurricanrana at ringside! Meanwhile, Daniels hits a Best Moonsault Ever on Kidman. 1...2. He attempts the Angel's Wing, but Rey jumps in with a springboard dropkick. Daniels rolls out of the ring. Shannon Moore falls victim to a hurricanrana from Rey Mysterio and a Shooting Star Press from Kidman. 1...2...3. Great match... and we have the NEW WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team champions. (15:29) (82)

CM Punk backstage interview. Punk refers to himself as a master grappler and confidently promises to make Lance Storm submit. (62)

Match 5: ‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire vs Sting. The match quickly spills out of the ring. Sean O'Haire hurls Sting into the steel barricades and lands several punches on the commentary table. O'Haire chokes him with a cable. Sting turns the tables and sends O'Haire knee-first into the steel steps. Sting attempts the Scorpion Deathlock in the ring but it's too early. Springboard clothesline by O'Haire! 1...2. He follows up with a sidewalk slam. 1...2. Sting counters with a dropkick to the knee. Sting applies the Scorpion Deathlock again. O'Haire demonstrates his resilience and refuses to give up. Sting then sends his opponent into the corner and delivers a series of Stinger Splashes — six in a row in fact! O'Haire becomes disoriented and Sting capitalizes with a Scorpion Death Drop. 1...2...NO! Bobby Heenan places O'Haire's leg on the ropes. Sting notices this and grabs Heenan. Scorpion Deathlock on Heenan at ringside! O'Haire strikes Sting with a big boot to the back of the head. Back to the ring. Gutbuster by O'Haire. Sean goes the top-rope... Senton Bomb... missed! Sting quickly rolls up into a pinfall... 1...2...3. (12:45) (74)

Post match, Sean O'Haire is in disbelief over his loss. He is furious. takes down the referee with a clothesline and then launches an attack on Sting. Widow Maker! O'Haire goes for the table... Senton Bomb through the table! (77)

The Four Horsemen backstage interview. Arn Anderson states that if Chavo Guerrero decided to decline the Horsemen, he made a grave mistake. Unless it's a clever move in true Horsemen style, and Chavo is planning to betray Flair right in the middle of the match. (62)

Match 6, Submission Match: Lance Storm vs CM Punk. The wrestlers didn't immediately rush into grappling. On the contrary, they employed moves aimed at weakening their opponent. CM Punk executes a shoulderbreaker and follows it up with some knee drops to the shoulder. Lance Storm begins targeting Punk's knee. CM Punk seizes the opportunity and applies a cross armlock, but Storm reaches the ropes. CM Punk then traps Lance Storm in a Tarantula, but the referee doesn’t count it as Storm is already on the ropes. Storm attempts the Half-Boston Crab, but Punk blocks it and applies a Crippler Crossface. Storm grabs the ropes. Anaconda Vice attempt, blocked with a backbreaker. Storm climbs the turnbuckle, but CM Punk attacks him and executes a Pepsi Plunge. Anaconda Vice! Lance Storm once again reaches the ropes. Undeterred, Punk pulls Storm away from the ropes and attempts a submission once again. Storm rolls Punk up into a Half-Boston Crab! CM Punk screams in pain and desperately reaches for the ropes. He is close... but Storm drags him back to the center ring and locks in the Half-Boston Crab once again. CM Punk eventually is unconscious, and the referee is forced to stop the match. (13:28) (82)

Ric Flair and Chavo Guerrero backstage interview. Flair begins to suspect Chavo of a possible betrayal, considering he has done it himself more than once. Chavo denies it, but fails to truly convince Flair. (76)

Match 7: Ric Flair and Chavo Guerrero vs Steve Corino and CW Anderson (w/ Arn Anderson). Corino and Anderson act as if they're anticipating a betrayal from Chavo Guerrero at any moment. However, Chavo gets the tag and immediately starts taking down his opponents. From there, the match progressed more or less as expected. Ric Flair doesn't trust Chavo and it gives advantage to the Horsemen. Anderson applies a bearhug on Flair. Flair retaliates with an eye rake and executes a backdrop. Tag to Steve Corino. Hot tag to Chavo Guerrero. Anderson receives a dropkick, and Corino quickly becomes the victim of a Gory Bomb! 1...2...NO! Chavo Guerrero goes to the top rope for a Frog Splash... but at the same moment Flair grabs Corino and locks him in a Figure-Four Leglock! Chavo is puzzled by what is happening. Arn Anderson seizes the opportunity to hand CW the brass knuckles and distracts the referee. CW enters the ring, but Chavo notices him and delivers a missile dropkick! Chavo grabs the brass knuckles and attempts to strike Corino but misses and accidentally hits Flair in the head! Anderson knocks Chavo out of the ring, and Corino makes the pin. 1...2...3. (14:16) (84)

Post match, Four Horsemen thank Chavo Guerrero, and that's what Flair sees when he regains his senses.

Video about the main event. (74)

Match 8, WCW World Heavyweight Championship: Goldberg vs Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell). James Mitchell wasted no time and immediately threw white powder in Goldberg's face, allowing Black Reign to gain the advantage right from the start. He targeted Goldberg's shoulder, using steel steps, barricades and even the commentary table. Goldberg starts to fight back, but again Mitchell interferes. Back to the ring. In the corner Black Reign does powerful shoulder strikes to the ribs. Fisherman suplex. 1...2. Goldberg fights back with a Flying Clothesline from the top rope. The brawl goes to the ringside again. Powerbomb on the steel steps by Goldberg! Back to the ring. Goldberg goes to the top rope, Black Reign attacks him. Goldberg improvises, jumps off the turnbuckle and rolls Reigns into a cross armbar. Black Reign manages to escape... but right away becomes the victim of Spear! 1...2... NO! Goldberg goes for a Jackhammer, but accidentally strikes the referee. Reign does a spinebuster. James Mitchell throws the WCW World Heavyweight Championship belt to the ring. Reign picks it... and shots Goldberg to the face! BLACKOUT! The ref is back. 1...2... 2,5... NO! James Mitchell is frantic. Black Reign throws Goldberg out of the ring and prepares the commentary table. Goldberg fights back. Jackhammer through the table! Black Reign is out, but so is Goldberg. The referee counts them out to ten. (14:04) (85)

Post match, Black Reign regains his senses, only to realize that the world title had slipped through his fingers. James Mitchell orders the destruction of Goldberg. Blackout by Reign! Mitchell shouts that it's not enough. Black Reign leads Goldberg to the ramp... Chokeslam into one of the spotlights! Goldberg smashes through the glass. Sparks are all over. The spotlight even began to burn! The announcers scream that Black Reign had lost his mind. James Mitchell is happy with his protege. Security guards and officials rushes to the scene. Black Reign stands still, and that's the end of WCW Sin 2002.

Overall: 83

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #36

Last Week - The match between Goldberg and Black Reign ended no contest. After the match, Reign attacked the champion and did a Chokeslam into the spotlight. (75)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler start WCW Monday Nitro from Baltimore, Mariland and say that they have no information on Goldberg's condition at this time.

Black Reign and James Mitchell in-ring promo. Mitchell congratulates the fans that they will never see Goldberg again. Last night's match should have ended in a convincing victory if not the referee. You can't destroy Reign the way Goldberg tried. But... Black Reign doesn't need the ref's recognition. He convinces differently. He convinces everyone that he is stronger than Goldberg by doing the only thing he knows how to do - destroying him. The last six months have been Goldberg's era. He dominated. But now he's gone - and the era of terror begins. There's a new big player. And it's the Black Reign...

... Shawn Michaels interrupts! Michaels says he doesn't know about terror, but HBK knows Goldberg is a very tough guy. Yesterday's spot looked tough. But if Goldberg could have been destroyed like that, someone else would have done it a long time ago. Instead, Goldberg came back time after time and made his opponents regret what they had done. The HBK is sure that Goldberg will still come back, and will come back very angry. So good advice is to think about it now... (90)

... Mitchell replies that they're not interested in Michaels' advice. By the way, Black Reign may remove another "hero" from WCW. Finish what was started by another dark character, so to speak. Reign attacks HBK and goes for a Chokeslam... Lance Storm is here to make a save! Springboard Dropkick! Reign falls out of the ring and is ready to get back, but is stopped by James Mitchell. Lance Storm challenges Black Reign to a match tonight! (74)

Last Week - American Dragon lost, but made Frankie Kazarian sweat in their match. Post match, Kazarian started to beat up Dragon, but AJ Styles made a save.

Match 1: American Dragon and AJ Styles vs ‘The Future’ Frankie Kazarian (w/ Torrie Wilson) and Kaz Hayashi. Great match. American Dragon locks Hayashi in a crossface submission hold. Kazarian breaks it and goes for a Wave of the Future... blocked by Dragon. Dragon whips Kazarian right into a springboard dropkick from Styles. Dragon takes Hayashi to the ringside, and Styles finishes Kazarian with a Styles Clash. (7:08) (82)

Backstage, Four Horsemen arrive at the building. They're happy and openly announce that Chavo Guerrero will join them tonight. They're met by WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes. He reminds them that Steve Corino still holds the WCW United States Championship... and he will defend it tonight! (69)

Last Night - In a tag team match against Steve Corino and CW Anderson, Chavo Guerrero accidentally (?) hits Ric Flair with a brass knuckle. (66)

Ric Flair in-ring promo. He calls out Chavo Guerrero. has watched the video of the end of their match multiple times, but he still cannot determine whether Chavo's actions were a mistake or a deliberate attack. If it was a mistake, Flair suggests that Chavo can apologize, they can shake hands, and together they can go kick the Four Horsemen's asses once again. However, if it was an intentional attack, Flair challenges Chavo to admit it now, align himself with the Horsemen, and become Flair's mortal enemy. Chavo is tired from the accusations and suspicions that have surrounded him ever since he stood alongside Rick. Chavo owes no explanations. Throughout his career, he has always tried to please others, but now he is free to do whatever he wants. And that's exactly what he intends to do. Chavo Guerrero drops the mic and leaves the ring. (88)

Backstage, Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore demand a rematch for the WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship. Vampiro tells them they're not ready yet. Daniels doesn't agree. Despite his mentor's advice, Daniels defies him and heads off to inform Rhodes that the rematch is taking place tonight. 

Last Night - Sean O'Haire lost to Sting, but after the match he brutally beated him down.

Match 2: ‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire (w/ Bobby Heenan) vs TAKA Michinoku. TAKA did great until Heenan tried to interfere. TAKA catches him and goes for a Michinoku Driver… O’Haire saves his manager with a big boot. Widow Maker and that’s it. (4:46) (78)

Post match, Bobby Heenan grabs the mic. He says that no one can defeat him without consequences. Everyone will face punishment for such actions. That's why Sting was punished yesterday. And today, TAKA Michinoku will face it as well. O'Haire does another Widow Maker on Michinoku. Heenan gives Sean a chair and orders to finish TAKA off. Sting's music starts to play! Heenan and O'Haire go full alert... Sting lands from the top right behind them! Scorpion Death Drop on O'Haire! Sting grabs Heenan and goes for a Scorpion Deathlock, but O'Haire pulls his manager out of the ring and retreats. (77)

Backstage, Kevin Nash is walking. He has returned after the suspension!

Kevin Nash in-ring promo. He acknowledges that much has changed since his absence. And the most important that his proteges, The Band, became WCW World Tag Team champions. He calls them out. Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli enter the ring. Nash congratulates them and tells that he saw their potential right from the start. He viewed them as the young, hungry guys that he and Hall were when they first entered the wrestling ring. Now, they are champions. The Band's spirit, the spirit of the Kliq, lives on in them. And with Nash's return, they can once again dominate WCW together, just as they had envisioned. Nash offers 'wolfpac' high-five sign... Castagnoli accepts. Same offer to Hero, but Chris answers with a right hand punch! Disqus Big Boot! Castagnoli looks puzzled... He stops Hero... only to give Nash Euro Uppercut himself. Champions laugh. Euro Uppercut/Disqus Elbow combo on Nash. (71)

Match 3, WCW United States Championship: Steve Corino (w/ Arn Anderson and CW Anderson) vs Chuck Palumbo. Horsemen tried to interfere, but the referee catched it and ordered to leave the arena. As the match progresses, Chavo Guerrero makes his way to the ring and observes the action. Palumbo gets distracted by Chavo and starts arguing with him. Chuck attacks him. But before Chavo could answer, Corino attacks Palumbo and performs an Old School Expulsion. 1...2...3. (6:37) (70) Post match, Chavo Guerrero does a Frog Splash on Palumbo and leaves the arena.

“Piper’s Pit”:
Before Roddy Piper could announce his guest, he is interrupted by Chris Kanyon. “You've got to be kidding me! Piper's Pit here? In 2002?  I already shared my thoughts on it at Starrcade, and I'm more than willing to repeat them right here and now. This is the third week I've witnessed an old guy like you, with a beer belly, trying to act young and entertaining. How can you disrespect me and WCW like this? These fans want to witness real entertainment, and Chris Kanyon is the one who can deliver. He's the best there is. Nobody is better than Kanyon. As far as I'm concerned, you can go back to the 80s or to hell, wherever you feel most comfortable. I kicked your ass at Starrcade, and I'm ready to do it again, right here and right now. I'm gonna save this damn show!"...

… Roddy Piper: "Hold on, hold on... Let me set something straight for you, buddy. Do you know why I show up here with my Pit every time? Do you know why they call and ask me to appear at Starrcade? It's for one reason only: because I deliver what I promise. These people want to see Roddy freaking Piper. News for you... Nobody wants Kanyon!"...

… Kanyon is ready to attack, but interrupted by… KEN SHAMROCK! Shamrock states that Roddy Piper is a living symbol of sports entertainment. If Kanyon wants a fight, he needs to choose an opponent who can match him. Like Ken. Kanyon hesitates, but decides to leave... only to get a cheap attack on Shamrock and Piper! Quick Flatliner on Piper! Kanyon escapes before Shamrock can get him. Shamrock checks on Piper, while Kanyon looks happy at the ramp. (80)

Match 4, WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship: Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman vs Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore (w/ Vampiro). Vampiro joins the announcers and says that in his opinion Moore and Daniels aren’t ready. Well, they could use a lesson tonight. They will lose tonight and after that Vampiro will prepare them with his system. Anyway, Moore and Daniels dominated until slingshot double DDT from Kidman. Mysterio does a hurricanrana on Moore. 6-1-9! Daniels goes for a championship belt, but Vampiro stops him! Daniels and Vampiro argue. Vampiro performs Nail in the Coffin at ringside! In the ring, Kidman finishes Moore with a Shooting Star Press. (10:46) (74)

Match 5: Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell) vs Lance Storm. Lance Storm was in control. He kicks Reign with a superkick. James Mitchell jumps onto the apron, but receives a superkick as well! Dropkick to the knee of Reign. Lance goes for a Half-Boston Crab... Powerful Reign pushes Lance out of the ring. CM Punk is here! He whips Storm into the steel steps and rolls him back to the ring. Blackout by Reign. 1...2...3. (10:03) (80)

Post match, Black Reign celebrates. Maybe it indeed the beginning of a new era? We'll see at the next Nitro. 

Overall: 84

Edited May 25, 2023 by Dimos

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #37

James Mitchell and Black Reign backstage promo. Mitchell declares that tonight's Nitro will mark the beginning of a new era, the era of absolute terror. (77)

Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler kick off WCW Monday Nitro from Bancorpsouth Center, Tupelo, Mississippi.

Match 1: American Dragon vs Kaz Hayashi. Kaz Hayashi sets up for a Hayashi Cutter, but Dragon counters with a back suplex. 1...2. American Dragon executes an airplane spin with an impressive 15 turns, leaving both wrestlers disoriented. Dragon puts Hayashi on the top rope, but Hayashi fights back and jumps off with a crossbody, Dragon catches him into a roll up. 1...2. Both wrestlers get up. Hayashi Cutter out of nowhere from Kaz. 1...2...3. (5:42) (74)

Post match, James Mitchell leads Black Reign to the ring. American Dragon gets Blackout and later is thrown into the steel steps. Mitchell is satisfied. 

“Piper’s Pit”:
Our guest tonight is the man who interfered in last Nitro's main event - CM Punk. Piper questions his audacity to mess with a main event at his age and with his reputation. Piper wonders who Punk thinks he is, as in the 80s, someone like him would have been taken care of backstage. CM Punk retorts that Piper is stuck in the 80s and suggests that if he ate better and drank less, he wouldn't have that belly that's embarrassing to professional wrestling. Maybe he still could do a match or two now. Punk challenges Piper to take a good look at himself before attempting to teach him about life. Regarding last week, Punk explains that he acted out of frustration. He was tired of being reminded of Lance Storm and felt unappreciated for his victory over him because he didn't make Storm submit. Punk finds it annoying that he was credited with a loss at Sin even though he never gave up. To set the record straight, Punk challenges Storm to I Quit match at Superbrawl. To win, Punk knows he'll have to make Storm say the words so that the entire audience and everyone watching the pay-per-view can hear it. Lance Storm comes out. He accepts the challenge and then charges to the ring. CM Punk fights back and attempts Anaconda Vice. Storm blocks and goes for a Half-Boston Crab. Not successful as well. Finally WCW Security is here to separate them. (71)

After a commercial break, Roddy Piper is walking backstage. He receives congratulations from various wrestlers for his outstanding talk show. As Piper turns a corner, he is suddenly ambushed by Chris Kanyon. Kanyon throws him through the garage door. Chris declares that this is what happens to those who mock him. (77)

Backstage, Vampiro talks to Christopher Daniels and Shannon Moore. He says they weren’t ready for a rematch for the WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championship last week. Fortunately, Vampiro has arranged another title match at Superbrawl, and he begins outlining a training program to prepare them. He will choose the opponents and strategy to reclaim the titles back.

Backstage, Roddy Piper is getting help from paramedics. Ken Shamrock shows particular concern. 

Match 2: Christopher Daniels (w/ Shannon Moore and Vampiro) vs TAKA Michinoku. Daniels misses with the Best Moonsault Ever and gets a backbreaker. 1…2. Daniels goes at the ringside and reaches after the chair, but is stopped by Vampiro. Vampiro wants him to win without it. In the meantime, TAKA Michinoku attacks Christopher with a baseball slide. Back to the ring. Michinoku Driver. 1…2…3. (5:19) (77)

Post match, there is Black Reign again! He grabs Michinoku by the throat and throws him into a corner. Splash! Blackout!

Backstage, WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes is angry with Black Reign’s actions. Ken Shamrock is here to ask for the match vs Chris Kanyon. It’s scheduled for a Superbrawl. Shamrock wants it tonight. Rhodes explains that it's not possible. However, if Ken needs an outlet to release his frustration, he can take on CM Punk today. (78)

Backstage, Ted DiBiase blames Booker T for not winning the WCW World Tag Team Championship. Booker T doesn't care. DiBiase reminds him that Booker works for him, which means Ted has the authority to give him matches. He intends to punish Booker T tonight with a special match. (73)

‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire and Bobby Heenan in-ring promo. Heenan taunts the crowd, asserting that Sting's mystical tricks are just illusions. Sting is nothing more than a regular person who chose to paint his face and rely on carnival tricks. He claims that Sting is no match for his superhuman client, Sean O'Haire. He challenges Sting to a match at Superbrawl, daring him to face O'Haire in any stipulation. Heenan calls out for Sting, expecting him to appear dramatically. The lights in the arena go out, and when they come back on, only O'Haire remains in the ring. Bobby Heenan has vanished. O'Haire looks around for his manager. The lights go out once more, and when they're back, Sting has Heenan locked in a Scorpion Deathlock on the ramp! Heenan screams in pain. O'Haire rushes to help. The lights go out again, and when they return, only a terrified Heenan remains on the ramp, with his client by his side. (78)

Backstage, Ric Flair talks to Dusty Rhodes and wants a match against Steve Corino. Rhodes responds that he can't simply grant him a match against the WCW US Champion. However, Flair will have the opportunity to face Corino under two conditions. First, he must defeat CW Anderson tonight. Second, Rhodes will personally determine the time, place, and stipulations of the match. (79)

Match 3, WCW World Tag Team Championship: Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli vs The Havana Pitbulls (Ricky Reyes and Rocky Romero). Pitbulls started the match strong, but overall, the champions appeared much more dominant. Ricky Reyes gets Euro Uppercut/Disqus Elbow combo. Romero receives a Neutralizer from Castagnoli. 1...2...3. (5:46) (69)

Post match, WCW World Tag Team Champions do a promo. Hero states that Kevin Nash didn't give them anything. He's only using them to cling onto his fading youth. But why should they care? What has Nash achieved? He's just an old wreck who can't even go the distance in a full match. On the other hand, they are the most talented young team in professional wrestling today. They don't need Nash. They've already champions. Angry Kevin Nash makes his way to the ring. He attacks both of them, briefly gaining the upper hand. Hero strikes Nash with the championship belt, followed by another Euro uppercut and Disqus Elbow combo. The champions leave, leaving Nash lying down. (64)

Match 4: Booker T (w/ Mark Jindrak and Ted DiBiase) vs Fit Finlay and Ken Anderson. Before the match, Finley and Anderson remind Ted DiBiase to pay them for their services. As it's a handicap match, Finlay and Anderson had advantage. Towards the end, Booker T manages to turn the tide and knocks Anderson down with a Harlem Sidekick. Spinaroonie! Finley falls victim to the Axe Kick, and Anderson gets a Bookend. Ted DiBiase sends Jindrak to the ring. Mark attacks Booker T with a clothesline to the bac. DQ. (4:46) (67) Post match, Jindrak destroys Booker T with a Mark of Excellence. 

Backstage, Black Reign attacks The Havana Pitbulls and beats them down. 

Match 5: Ric Flair vs CW Anderson (w/ Steve Corino and Arn Anderson). Anderson was much more powerful than Flair. Plus he had Arn and Corino in his corner. In the middle of the match, Chavo Guerrero comes to the ringside, capturing everybody's attention. CW Anderson goes for a DDT, Flair grabs the ropes and counters with a Figure-Four Leglock. CW Anderson grabs the referee and pushes him down. Corino throws a chair into the ring. Chavo enters, takes the chair and leaves with it. Corino and Arn Anderson argue with Chavo. CW Anderson is distracted. Flair rolls him up. 1...2...3. (6:18) (77)

Post match, Horsemen attack Ric Flair and beat him down. Chavo Guerrero is going to leave the arena. But Chuck Palumbo is here to make a save! He knocks Chavo with a clothesline on his way. And then runs Horsemen away. (75)

Match 6: Ken Shamrock vs CM Punk. Shamrock performs a belly-to-belly suplex. As Shamrock attempts to apply the Ankle Lock, CM Punk pushes him into the corner using his free leg. Punk puts Shamrock on the top rope... Pepsi Plunge! 1...2...NO! Shamrock manages to place his foot on the ropes. Punk tries to lock in the Anaconda Vice. Shamrock blocks. Lance Storm comes to the arena. Punk is distracted. Shamrock rolls him up. 1...2...3. (11:57) (81)

WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes in-ring promo. He wants to deal with Black Reign. He cannot allow such incidents to occur under his watch. Reign must have some motives behind his actions. Rhodes is willing to listen to his demands. James Mitchell and Black Reign come to the ring. They indeed have one demand. Did they succeed in destroying Goldberg? They did. Will Goldberg never show up in WCW again? Yes. Therefore, WCW World Heavyweight Championship should be transferred to Black Reign. Mitchell urges Rhodes to do the right thing and hand over the championship belt to Black Reign, or the chaos will continue…

…. Dusty Rhodes acknowledges that logically, it may seem like the right decision. However, there is at least one person here who disagrees. It's GOLDBERG! He's back! He immediately takes down the Black Reign with a Spear! Reign and Mitchell retreat to the ramp, while Goldberg stays in the ring. Dusty Rhodes says that he could suspend or even fire Black Reign for his actions, but at this moment he believes that the ultimate punishment would be to face Goldberg once again. At SuperBrawl. At No Holds Barred match. (100)

Overall: 85

[Dimos]

WCW Monday Nitro
Episode #38

Last Week - Black Reign led by James Mitchell, unleashed a reign of terror on Nitro. However, their era of dominance came to an end when WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg made his return! (78)

WCW Monday Nitro kicks off from Coast Coliseum, Biloxi, Mississippi with Mike Tenay and Jerry Lawler as our announcers.

WCW World Heavyweight Champion Goldberg opens the show. He speaks to Black Reign telling that if they had attempted to eliminate him at Sin, their biggest mistake was not finishing the job. They needed to ensure that Goldberg never returned. They needed to complete what they started. Now, Black Reign has a target on his back. He's next, and at Superbrawl, Goldberg will utterly demolish him. The champion is interrupted by... CM Punk? "You can blabber all you want about Black Reign and all, but right now, you're stealing airtime from the legitimate athletes, the ones these people came to see..." Punk's sentence is abruptly cut short as Goldberg delivers a Spear. (86)

After the commercial break, the main event for tonight is announced: Goldberg and Lance Storm will take on the Black Reign and CM Punk. (68)

WCW Cruiserweight Champion AJ Styles pre-match promo. He will defend his title against Kaz Hayashi at Superbrawl. But he also has a match tonight. And as defending champion he puts the title on the line. (54)

Match 1, WCW Cruiserweight Championship: AJ Styles vs Low Ki (w/ Kaz Hayashi). Styles attempts a Styles Clash but is blocked. Low Ki goes for a Ki Krusher but also blocked. Low Ki then locks Styles in a Dragon Clutch! Styles fights back and reverses into a roll up. 1...2. Both wrestlers get back on their feet. Styles executes a Styles Clash out of nowhere. 1...2...3. (8:18) (77) Post match, the champion is attacked by Kaz Hayashi. Low Ki joins him. American Dragon makes a save!

Backstage, Vampiro is subjecting Shannon Moore and Christopher Daniels to a kendo stick shots as part of their training for the title match. (60)

Kevin Nash in-ring promo. "You know about my situation with Hero and Castagnoli.  I saw in those guys what we once had. Scott Hall, Shawn Michaels... We were young, hungry, and eager to overthrow the reign of the older generation. There guys are the same. And I respect that. They decided to go their own way. I respect that too. However, if you kick Big Sexy, you must deal with the consequences. I asked for a tag team match at Superbrawl against these guys. I've got it. WCW World Tag Team Championship is on the line.  I've spent a considerable amount of time contemplating who I could partner with – someone I can trust, someone I can rely on. Only one name comes to mind. I want that person to come out here into the ring so I can personally for his help. It's... SHAWN MICHAELS!"...

... wait, what?!

… Shawn Michaels comes to the ring. Nash continues: “When I found out you were in WCW, it was the best news I ever received. I want us to team up and fight for the WCW World Tag Team Championship together at Superbrawl. Like the old times. Like the Kliq." The HBK responds: “Kev, I appreciate the sentiment, but it seems like you missed something. I'm no longer an active wrestler. My back is so injured that one wrong move could leave me confined to a wheelchair. And my family, Kev, they're not...”....

…. Nash interrupts him: "Cut the crap, Shawn! Look at yourself. The Heartbreak Kid, the Showstopper. Where is he? I've known you for years. You're not someone who can be easily taken down by a single bad fall. I was thrilled when you arrived here. But what do I see? You come out to the ring just to talk. You walk around with a smile plastered on your face. You have someone like Lance Storm stepping in for you! Have you lost the ability to handle your own problems? Where is the Michaels who used to dish out Sweet Chin Music to anyone who dared to give him a bad look? Where's the HBK who came in as a rookie, got pushed around by everyone, and within a couple of years had the entire locker room in his grasp? Where is the Showstopper who consistently delivered incredible matches at every show? I refuse to believe he's not still inside you. I don't believe you're so afraid for your own back that you don't want to kick a few more punks' asses. I don't believe you don't want to give these people what they've been yearning for since day one when you stepped foot into the WCW ring – another match from the magnificent Heartbreaker. Or do you want to wander around here for the rest of your life, playing the part of a 'talking wrestling legend' and hiding behind those who still respect you and are willing to defend you? But what's next? Think about it. My offer still stands. And next week, six days before Superbrawl, I want to hear your answer." Kevin Nash exits the ring, leaving Shawn Michaels deep in thought. (92)

Backstage, Ted DiBiase runs into Fit Finlay and Ken Anderson. They ask about payment for their services last week. Ted responds that they didn't fulfill what was expected of them since Booker T is still walking around. Finlay threatens him. Ted is happy to pay them - with a kicks from his clients at the ring tonight. The match is set. (57)

Match 2: Shannon Moore (w/ Vampiro and Christopher Daniels) vs Jamie Noble. Shannon Moore has injured ribs as a result of "training" from his mentor Vampiro. Jamie Noble takes control early on. Daniels creates a distraction, allowing Moore to seize the opportunity and knock Noble down with a flying leg lariat. 1...2. Moore does a corkscrew moonsault! It connects, but his ribs now are really hurt. So Noble gets up first and finished Moore with a Jumping Tombstone. 1...2...3. (8:20) (78)

Post match, Dark Society attack Noble. Angel’s WIngs from Daniels! Vampiro is ready to finish Jamie off, but Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman come to save. (53)

Backstage, Ric Flair talks to WCW Commissioner Dusty Rhodes. he has met all the requirements and now demands his match against Steve Corino at Superbrawl. Dusty agrees and makes a stipulation: it will be a steel cage match. And Chavo Guerrero will be a special guest referee. (76)

Match 3: Booker T and Mark Jindrak (w/ Ted DiBiase) vs Fit Finlay and Ken Anderson. Booker T once again appears disinterested in the match. Towards the end, Booker T receives the hot tag. Finlay immediately launches an assault, engaging in a heated brawl with Booker T. Booker knocks him down. Anderson gets a Harlem Sidekick. Finlay grabs his special weapon - shillelagh - but gets a Bookend before he could use it. 1...2...3. (8:34) (66)

Post match, Booker T picks up shillelagh himself. Ted DiBiase orders him to finish the opponents. Booker T wants to hit Ted with shillelagh instead! DiBiase reminds him about the contract: Booker can't hit him. Booker takes a moment to assess the situation and then knocks Mark Jindrak out with the shillelagh. He drops shillelagh and exits the ring, leaving Ted DiBiase behind. Finlay picks up his weapon. DiBiase pleads for Booker T to return. No way. FInlay hits DiBiase with a shillelagh!

Backstage, Ken Shamrock arrives at the building. Only to be attacked by Chris Kanyon with a steel pipe! Couple of shots at the leg and one vicious one to the head. (88)

‘The Face of WCW’ Sean O’Haire and Bobby Heenan in-ring promo. Heenan speaks again. “You see, that's your problem, people! You crave mysticism. You want entertainment. You cheer for a man who emerges from the shadows or descends from above to attack an innocent manager who isn't even a wrestler. Because that's what you are. Cowardly. Jealous. Unable to run a business or provide for your family. The only difference between you and Sting is that Sting can perform those tricks. They're like children's magic tricks from a book. You fail to appreciate a true athlete. You fail to appreciate someone who doesn't need tricks to defeat their opponents. You fail to appreciate real strength. You call Sting the face of WCW? Well, here is the true face of WCW: Sean O'Haire. And at Superbrawl, he will dismantle your hero Sting without any gimmicks or tricks." The fans are booing. Heenan continues: “What? Is this the moment when your beloved Sting is supposed to appear? Are the lights supposed to go out now? Where is he? Is he going to emerge from under the ring? Descend from above? Well, I'm not afraid of Sting. We're ready to fight. A fair fight. A righteous fight..." The lights suddenly go out in the arena! And when it come back... nothing has changed, except Heenan is now on his knees, hiding behind O'Haire's leg! The audience bursts into laughter. Sting may be gone, but his brief presence was enough to scare the living daylights out of those in the ring. Sting's symbol and the caption "Superbrawl" appear on the titantron. (84)

Match 4: Ric Flair and Chuck Palumbo vs Steve Corino and CW Anderson (w/ Arn Anderson). Horsemen used a lot of cheap tactics to get themselves an advantage. Ric Flair gets a hot tag. He and Palumbo start to clear the ring. Arn Anderson grabs Palumbo’s legs and pulls him out of the ring. Chuck knocks him down with a Jungle Kick at ringside! Chavo Guerrero rushes to the arena and attacks Palumbo, seeking revenge for last week. Ric Flair becomes distracted by this and immediately falls victim to the Old School Expulsion. 1...2...3. (12:50) (84)

Post match, Four Horsemen are going to attack Flair, but Chavo stops them. That moment allows Flair to leave the ring. Chavo then leaves the ring himself without any words. 

Match 5: Goldberg and Lance Storm vs Black Reign (w/ James Mitchell) and CM Punk. Storm avoids Blackout and tags in Goldberg. Goldberg clears the ring. He is going to Spear Reign, but Reign manages to escape the ring, leaving CM Punk alone. Punk gets hit with a Spear and a Jackhammer. 1...2...3. (11:39) (86)

Post match, Goldberg promises revenge to Black Reign, who stands at the ramp. 

Overall: 87