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Post by DTP. on Mar 2, 2011 22:18:37 GMT -5
WWF Royal Rumble: Sunday 18th January 1998 San Jose, California - San Jose Arena
WWF Royal Rumble 1998 - 7:00-9:35 CT | A video package aired, highlighting the night and showcasing all of the card, from the Royal Rumble match to the Legion of Doom facing the New Age Outlaws. Shawn Michaels against The Undertaker in a Casket match was also showcased primarily, highlights of In Your House: Badd Blood's Hell in a Cell match shown. The opening Royal Rumble graphic airs, and we go to the live San Jose Arena here in California, pyrotechnics going off, and Jim Ross alongside Jerry "King" Lawler on commentary, and they hype up this night full of action! | 1) Vader vs The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust (w/Luna Vachon)
This one started in November at the Survivor Series, as the Artist Formerly Known As Goldust walked out on the United States of America, after turning his back on his wife. Following this, he underwent a bizarre change of personality, dressing as other WWF superstars along the way. Luna Vachon became his main squeez, and this infuriated Vader to no end. Vader went right at it with Goldust, Goldust wearing a strange green singlet tonight, and Vader clubbed Goldust with TAFKA Goldust holding nothing back, but when Luna tried jumping onto the back of Vader, Goldust chop blocked Vader and began to go right to work on the leg of the big mastadon. Vader was kept down and Goldust stomped away at the leg, keeping right on top of him. Goldust applied a camel clutch and continued to fire back at Vader, a single legged Boston crab also attempted. Vader fired back as he delivered a massive powerbomb and winded TAFKA Goldust, Goldust trying to run from him and heading up the aisleway! Steve Blackman stood in front of the aisleway though, and Goldust and Luna were left no option! Vader met them on the aisleway, Vader continued the torture of Goldust but Goldust delivered a low blow behind the official's back. Goldust went back to the leg, during this time it was revealed that both men would be in the Royal Rumble later tonight. Goldust soon set Vader up for the Curtain Call, but Vader overpowered him and nailed a reverse suplex, Vader setting up for the Vader Bomb. He climbed to the second turnbuckle but Luna dived on his back, Vader ignoring and still nailing the Vader Bomb on TAFKA Goldust! Luna flew out of the ring from the rebound, Vader getting the three!Winner: Vader @ 8:32 [**]
Vader celebrated his win as the crowd popped, Luna Vachon at ringside terrified of what just happened, being launched out of the ring from being on the back of a Vader Bomb. The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust remained down, wounded. But it didn't matter to the Man They Call Vader, as Vader motioned that this was not going to be it for him tonight!
| Michael Cole's voice was heard as he stood in the backstage area with the wild card in tonight's Royal Rumble match, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and Austin cut Cole off when saying that Austin would have twenty-nine people trying to get him out of the Royal Rumble match as quick as possible. Austin says that he intentionally kicks peoples asses because he tests their masculinity. Austin tells Cole to get out of his face, because whether it's one man or ten men, Stone Cold will leave San Jose the winner of the Royal Rumble!
| 2) WWF Light Heavyweight Championship: TAKA Michinoku (c) vs Brian Christopher
This match was originally scheduled for RAW is WAR tomorrow night, but for whatever reason, it was forwarded to tonight, an impromptu addition to the card. Not that I'm complaining. Jerry Lawler was incredibly hostile to the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion, TAKA Michinoku, especially after TAKA beat Brian Christopher last month at In Your House: D-Generation X. Brian Christopher showed potential, and was very eager to try and fight the title away from the champion, as Lawler was heavily on his side. Jim Ross once again would bring up the "Jerry's Kid" gag. TAKA caught Christopher off guard in the first two or three minutes, using many of his high-flying antics to keep the challenger off-balance. Armdrags and moonsaults galore, TAKA got an ovation out of this crowd. Christopher lured Michinoku to ringside, and TAKA would miss a suicide dive and slam into the announce table, Christopher then working on the ribs and keeping Michinoku at his mercy. A series of backbreakers and ground-based moves, Christopher still kept with the quick style, springboard dives getting near falls. Christopher got more and more frustrated as the match went on that TAKA wouldn't stay down, and Michinoku soon made a comeback, "The King" getting involved but TAKA dropkicked him from the apron! Christopher tried to backdrop TAKA, but he landed on his feet and nailed Christopher with the Michinoku Driver for the win! Winner and STILL WWF Light Heavyweight Champion: TAKA Michinoku @ 7:14 [**3/4] TAKA Michinoku celebrated his win as the fans were pleased, Jerry "The King" Lawler looking angry from a seated position on the floor. TAKA celebrated with the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship as Brian Christopher rolled out of the ring with Lawler, Lawler giving a word to his 'associate', Christopher, Brian heading to the back.
| D-Generation X arrived at the building in a limousine, Shawn Michaels seemingly sort've confident going into the Casket match for the WWF Championship tonight. The "Heartbreak Kid" talked to Triple H about how tonight was the night that The Undertaker's flame was deflamed! Triple H followed with Chyna via crutches, and DX seemed to have a game set plan for tonight.
| The Rock was shown in the backstage area with Sunny, as Sunny talked about potential dissension in the Nation of Domination. Rock called it false, as the Nation are gradually getting only stronger. He has Faarooq, his second hand man; D-Lo Brown, his up and coming man filled with potential. And Kama Mustafa, the muscle. The brute. Rock talks about how he was once a member of the Nation, but now as WWF Intercontinental Champion he leads them into a stronger era. He tells Sunny that tonight he will shut the "World's Most Dangerous Man" up. The Nation join him as they make a walk through the halls.
The Nation of Domination reached the Gorilla position as they were prepared to head out to the ring for The Rock's upcoming WWF Intercontinental Championship defense, but D-Lo Brown, Faarooq and Kama Mustafa were cut off by Mark Henry, Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie. Rock asked what this was all about, but Charlie set up his chainsaw, Cactus telling the Nation that they'd be standing guard and only Rock may go to the ring! The Nation looked angry, but stepped back as Charlie stepped forward with the chainsaw. Rock powerwalked to the arena. | 3) WWF Intercontinental Championship: The Rock (c) vs Ken Shamrock
The "World's Most Dangerous Man" finally met the WWF Intercontinental Champion, and Shamrock sure was pretty motivated to take the title away from the former Rocky Maivia. Shamrock was in different motivation than Brian Christopher earlier tonight though, as Shamrock was vicious and tried ripping Rock to shreds with the belly to back suplex connecting early on, and Shamrock made a point of marking the ankle of Rock so he could attempt to apply the Ankle Lock for easier submission. This match was made better with the fact that the Nation of Domination weren't around to try and get involved. Shamrock nailed an outstanding top rope hurricanrana, but momentum seemed to switch as Rock caught Shamrock off guard and poked him in the eyes, Rock nailing a big clothesline and starting to show off his obnoxious side. The fans chanted 'Rocky Sucks' as Rock applied a Sharpshooter, the crowd booing and Shamrock seemed to be trapped with nowhere to go. Shamrock managed to get the ropes, but Ken fired back, nailing a belly to back suplex out of nowhere. Shamrock went to go for the Ankle Lock but he accidentally bumped the referee, falling over. Shamrock went after Rock again but almost fell to the Rock Bottom. Shamrock kicked Rock in the ribs before applying the Ankle Lock again, but Mark Henry got into the ring, body slamming Shamrock!? The "World's Strongest Man" splashed Shamrock and placed Rock on top, Rock getting the three! Winner and STILL WWF Intercontinental Champion: The Rock @ 11:45 [**1/2]
The Rock celebrated his victory as the crowd were genuinely shocked by what had transpired here in San Jose! Mark Henry helped the leader of the Nation up, The Rock grabbing his WWF Intercontinental Championship and standing over Ken Shamrock. Rock smirked as he hugged Mark Henry, a new member of the Nation of Domination? Why!? | In the backstage area we see Stone Cold Steve Austin enter the locker room as he was instantly attacked by Los Boricuas! Austin fought Savio Vega and Jesus Castillo off, but the Godwinns joined in and Austin was pounded down, left to be pounded into the locker door repeatedly! | A video package aired, reminding us of the feud between the New Age Outlaws and the Legion of Doom, how legendary the team of Hawk and Animal were, and then led to Billy Gunn and Road Dogg stealing LOD's shoulderpads, winning the WWF Tag Team Championships and then shaving Hawk's head and demolishing LOD.
| 4) WWF Tag Team Championship: The New Age Outlaws (c) vs The Legion of Doom
This was it for the New Age Outlaws, it was time for the Legion of Doom to make a grand comeback, as Hawk and Animal returned to a grand ovation, then tossing Billy Gunn and Road Dogg around the ring before trying for the Doomsday Device just for Gunn to get involved. LOD seemed intense and ready to take the titles from the New Age Outlaws, though, as Hawk powered against Gunn, however before long Road Dogg teamed with Gunn to pound down on Hawk. They went right for the head, where he had previously received a concussion with thanks to the New Age Outlaws. They made quick tags, keeping into a flow and rhythm and isolating Hawk away from Animal; the better technique as Animal got more and more reered up. It also didn't help that Jesse James kept taunting Animal. Billy even motioned mooning Animal, as Hawk was in desperation, but as the Outlaws nailed the Spike Piledriver, Hawk got right back up! The classic Hawk no-sell in effect, he took Gunn's head off with a clothesline before tagging in Animal, and LOD double-teamed Gunn and James. James was given a double suplex by LOD as Animal nailed a big powerful on Gunn; Animal then scooping him up and setting up the Doomsday Device, and Gunn fell unconscious! Hawk went to cover but James broke it up, Animal then clotheslined him to ringside, and Hawk nailed another big suplex just as Billy Gunn rolled to the ringside area! Jesse James and Billy Gunn recruited up the ramp with the belts, and the Outlaws had escaped with the belts yet again! Winners by count-out: The Legion of Doom, but STILL WWF Tag Team Champions: The New Age Outlaws @ 8:18 [**1/4]
The crowd booed loudly as the Legion of Doom looked angry, storming around. | A video package aired that promoted the Royal Rumble match, and in a few moments, thirty men will participate for a future WWF Championship opportunity, at WrestleMania XIV!
We go to the sky box in San Jose Arena, as Vince McMahon introduced us to Mike Tyson! "Iron" Mike talked about how the Royal Rumble match was so exciting and he can't wait to find out who's going to WrestleMania, telling us that he hopes Stone Cold Steve Austin wins the Rumble! | 5) The 1998 Royal Rumble match #1: Dude Love | #2: D-Lo Brown
Dude Love and D-Lo Brown started things off as #1 and #2. A back and forth way to kick off the 1998 Royal Rumble, as D-Lo Brown seemed to fend up well against Dude Love, though Dude Love's popularity with these fans really managed to get the fans into the contest. Basic elimination attempts were made throughout. Mark Henry arrived at #3, and the newest addition of the Nation of Domination got an extreme amount of heat. It was sort've fishy why two members of the Nation had gotten back-to-back numbers, but Dude Love still kept fighting both men off, Mark and D-Lo pounding away at the Dude and attempting to eliminate him. 8-Ball was #4, and he seemed to manage to even things up for Dude Love to the surprise of everyone. 8-Ball fended off D-Lo. 8-Ball was then eliminated by Mark Henry with ease. TAKA Michinoku was #5, and whilst he would have been a good choice for the Rumble and a true underdog, he was there with Dude Love and two members of the Nation. TAKA did catch D-Lo off guard with a few armdrags however. Mosh of the Headbangers came out at #6, and he benefited little, as Mark Henry quickly took him down. Dude Love managed to tip Mark to the apron, but he managed to return to the ring. Chainz was #7, and he managed to power lefts and rights at Mark, and Mark Henry would be eliminated by Mosh, Chainz, Dude Love and TAKA Michinoku. Jerry Lawler was #8, "The King" easily tipping TAKA Michinoku over the top! Marc Mero came in at #9, and he seemed to go after anybody, D-Lo Brown still focusing on going after Dude Love, but Dude kept in there. Kurrgan the Interrogator was #10, and he made a slow walk to the ring, Dude Love mainly targeting Kurrgan as everybody tried to get a shot in. Kurrgan easily tossed Mosh out before resuming the Truth Commission/DOA feud with Chainz. [Remaining Entrants: Dude Love, D-Lo Brown, Chainz, Jerry Lawler, Marc Mero & Kurrgan the Interrogator]
Billy Gunn arrived at #11, and he seemed to make things interesting, the WWF Tag Team Champion that had slyly avoided losing the titles against Legion of Doom earlier tonight being the target of tag team wrestler, Chainz. Savio Vega entered at #12, and he went right after Chainz, aiding Gunn, his recent associate. Kurrgan continued his reign of terror by eliminating Jerry Lawler, Dude Love suddenly clotheslining Kurrgan into the ropes, eliminating both Dude Love and Kurrgan the Interrogator! An interesting sacrifice to make, as Dude Love got up and continued to trade blows with the massive Truth Commission member, the two seperated by officials at ringside. Chainsaw Charlie arrived at #13, and Charlie joined the fray with a chainsaw, scaring Marc Mero out of the ring! Charlie was then dropkicked by Billy Gunn from behind, the chainsaw falling out of the ring. Gunn pounded at Charlie, trying to eliminate him quickly. Steve Blackman was #14, the "Lethal Weapon" appearing in a dash and eliminating Savio Vega quickly with a dropkick. Owen Hart was even at #15, and the "Black Hart" darted to the ring and took out D-Lo Brown with a fast array of kicks. Owen was put over as being one of the main players to win, Charlie and Owen soon beginning to brawl. Blackjack Bradshaw was #16, Bradshaw entering without the mustache as he took Chainz down with a big Western Lariat! Bradshaw continued as he traded heavy shots with Blackman. Skull was #17, entering the battle with Chainz and double-teaming D-Lo, who had been in there well over a half hour now. D-Lo managed to eliminate Chainz, as Billy Gunn still went at it with Charlie. Cactus Jack was #18, and the crowd cheered loudly for Mick Foley's second face appearance in the Rumble! Jack running to the ring with a baseball bat and swinging for Billy Gunn, but Gunn ducked and took it out of Jack's hands, slamming it into Charlie's skull! Gunn and Jack then brawled. Road Dogg arrived at #19 to even the odds, Jesse James and Billy Gunn trading fists with Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie. Steve Austin was #20 as the crowd erupted, Stone Cold wandering out with a bandaid on his forehead, Austin getting into the ring and getting into brawls from everybody in the ring! Austin dumped Blackjack Bradshaw and then traded fists with Owen Hart! Austin and Owen were jumped by the New Age Outlaws, but Austin and Owen respectively sent Billy Gunn and Road Dogg flying from the ring! [Remaining Entrants: D-Lo Brown, Billy Gunn, Steve Blackman, Chainsaw Charlie, Owen Hart, Skull, Cactus Jack & Road Dogg]
Kama Mustafa was #21, and he came out to give D-Lo some support, Brown surpassing 45 minutes now. They went for Austin, and D-Lo Brown was eliminated, as was Chainsaw Charlie! Vader arrived at #22, the mastadon entering the ring and knocking Skull out of the ring. Vader soon traded blows with Austin, and Owen Hart got involved too! Vader then shrugged them off, a big powerbomb over the top on Steve Blackman! Thrasher was #23, and he did not do very well, as Cactus Jack easily eliminated Thrasher. Jack then resumed the brawl with Vader and Owen, Austin stomping a mudhole in Mustafa. Jeff Jarrett was #24, and "Double J" arrived, Jarrett quickly tipping Cactus Jack over the top within seconds! Faarooq was next at #25, and another member of the Nation appeared, Faarooq joining Kama Mustafa on the attack of the biggest man in the match, Vader. Owen and Austin were going at it again near the corner. Mankind was #26, and the fans were going insane, the third persona of Mick Foley arriving after only five minutes of Cactus Jack being eliminated! Mankind went back for Vader, both men continuing their fight in particular, the Mandible Claw on Vader but Vader slammed him! The Rock came at #27, and the WWF Intercontinental Champion seemed confident, joining Kama and Faarooq in going after Steve Austin and Owen Hart, Owen managing to tip Kama Mustafa over the top rope. The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust hit the ring at #28, Goldust seemingly damaged from earlier tonight against Vader, and Goldust walked right into the Mandible Claw! Austin nailed the Stunner on Goldust, and Vader splashed him, and Vader quickly disposed of The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust! Ken Shamrock was #29, and the "World's Most Dangerous Man" hit the ring, Shamrock angry with Rock, and he had to go through Faarooq first! Shamrock nailed a belly-to-back suplex on Faarooq before trading blows with Rock, Owen then cutting both off with a dropkick to both men! Triple H was #30 unsurprisingly, and the WWF European Champion was finally off of crutches, getting into the ring and heading for "Black Hart" from behind! [Remaining Entrants: Owen Hart, Steve Austin, Vader, Jeff Jarrett, Faarooq, Mankind, Ken Shamrock, The Rock & Triple H]Vader dumped Faarooq over the top and The Rock was locked in the Ankle Lock in the corner, Vader surprisingly going for Shamrock. Jeff Jarrett applied a Figure-Four Leglock on Steve Austin, but it didn't last as Mankind applied the Mandible Claw on Jarrett, Jarrett the man who eliminated Cactus Jack earlier. Jarrett and Mankind traded blows as they neared the ropes, Rock dumping both but only Mankind was eliminated! Jarrett and Rock went at it, as Vader almost had Shamrock out, Owen fighting out of the brawl with Triple H then dropkicking Vader and he fell into Shamrock, Ken Shamrock going over! Owen and Jarrett exchanged blows, as Austin suddenly delivered a Stunner to Vader, then a second one. Austin power clotheslined Vader over the top rope, and the big man was out at last! "Black Hart" went for Stone Cold Steve Austin, Owen Hart pounced on Austin, Jeff Jarrett with a heavy chop to the WWF Intercontinental Champion, Rock. Rock seemed to have contention in Jarrett, but Austin suddenly was cut off by Triple H, the Pedigree connecting! Jeff Jarrett tried to go for Austin, but Steve tossed Jeff Jarrett out! [The Final Four: Owen Hart, Steve Austin, Triple H & The Rock]Down to four, no pause as Owen Hart and Triple H traded blows, Owen motivated to get the WWF European Champion out of the ring but Steve Austin clotheslined Owen! The Rock tried eliminating Austin but he hung onto the apron. The Rock was then eliminated by Owen shoving him into Austin, Austin with a big back body drop! Austin got back in as Triple H nailed the running high knee, Owen falling into the ropes. Owen sent Triple H to the apron as Austin clotheslined Owen Hart from the apron! Triple H remained on the apron but Austin took Triple H with a hard shot!Winner of the 1998 Royal Rumble: Stone Cold Steve Austin @ 58:28 [**3/4]
Stone Cold Steve Austin celebrated an epic victory, Austin having outlasted the competition and now going to WrestleMania XIV for a WWF Championship shot! "Iron" Mike Tyson seemed pleased that Austin won too, but who Austin will face, Shawn Michaels or The Undertaker, we will find out in a few minutes! | A video package aired highlighting the rivalry between The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels, HBK crossing the "Deadman" and the "Heartbreak Kid" defeated Undertaker with the debut of Kane in a brutal Hell in a Cell match at In Your House: Badd Blood. Hinted also was the alliance of Kane and Undertaker, HBK and 'Taker lock up in a Casket match for the WWF Championship now!
| 6) WWF Championship - Casket Match: Shawn Michaels (c) vs The Undertaker
The heated climax to this rivalry, an intense rivalry indeed as the "Heartbreak Kid" started this by betraying The Undertaker and slamming a steel chair into his spine at SummerSlam. D-Generation X had grown upon the way, as Undertaker and Michaels met in match of the year candidate, Hell in a Cell at In Your House: Badd Blood. But this was different, Shawn Michaels was denying the fear of caskets, and The Undertaker was showing how legitimately supernatural he was. Undertaker scared Shawn to ringside in the early goings, the "Showstopper" slowed down by 'Taker, heavy hits taking down the WWF Champion. Undertaker dropped Shawn on top of the casket, and HBK wrived in pain because of it! The big boot had HBK in the casket, but he managed to get out quickly as possible. Michaels soon fired back, using a steel chair, and we were reminded that all was legal in this match. Shawn cut the head of Undertaker open, and a Sweet Chin Music to Undertaker almost had the "Deadman" in the casket. The piledriver on the steel steps by Shawn expected to finish him, but Undertaker kept on fighting, 'Taker then giving Shawn the Tombstone Piledriver on the steel steps! Shawn had to be dead, as 'Taker dragged the "Main Event" and put him in the casket, about to close the lid when Kane's pyrotechnics hit the ring posts! 'Taker looked confused when suddenly Kane broke through the canvas and grabbed 'Taker by the throat! Kane delivered a powerful Chokeslam on 'Taker on the floor, the "Big Red Machine" raising his hand in the air, Paul Bearer making his way out to the aisleway, the crowd booing as Bearer was pleased. Kane delivered a Tombstone Piledriver on the stairs like 'Taker did to Shawn, then placed his brother's carcuss into the casket, Michaels managing to get out, and Kane shut the lid!
Winner and STILL WWF Champion: Shawn Michaels @ 14:51 [**3/4] Shawn Michaels celebrated his WWF Championship defense, leaving as quick as possible. The Undertaker was locked in the casket, Kane carting it up the ramp and padlocking it. Paul Bearer led the "Big Red Machine" to the middle of the aisle, where Kane lit a match, poured lighter fluid all over the casket and set the casket containing the "Phenom" on fire! The crowd booed, Kane getting ultimate retribution for all of his facial burns tonight on The Undertaker! The Brothers of Destruction had gone up in flames, literally tonight as the Royal Rumble went off the air.
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Post by Matt on Mar 3, 2011 23:27:24 GMT -5
Dan, I just want to say I read your show and it was great (would I ever expect anything else?) But there is just something that rubs me the wrong way. I'm on my phone and its too much of a pain to formally reply, so that will come sometime tomorrow.
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Post by Jord on Mar 4, 2011 12:37:16 GMT -5
The graphics are all great, I'm assuming Chaz done them? A weak opener here, Vader going over was the right call but you could have opened with a more exciting match. TAKA retaining over Brian Christopher is good since you could push someone else to the Light Heavyweight Championship. Would have loved Shamrock to go over Rock here since I was a huge Shamrock fan, but I guess Rock winning is alright. Gunn and Road Dogg losing via count-out just leads me to believe that it's only a matter of time before Animal and Hawk do actually win the tag straps. Austin winning the Rumble is making me think Michaels will beat Undertaker to have a HBK/Austin WrestleMania main event. Wouldn't have minded someone else winning the Rumble here, but whatever. Michaels retaining was what I expected. Good ending but the pay-per-view was pretty much a carbon copy of what went down in real life, if I'm correct.
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Post by Deleted on Mar 5, 2011 10:35:45 GMT -5
Royal Rumble was an excellent show, as always. First, I must say those are some fine graphics! The opening match was pretty decent, realistic that Goldust would work on the legs on Vader. I'm happy with the outcome as it ends the feud. The finish was great. Lightheavyweight championship match was also decent, I'm glad you went with TAKA retaining, keep the belt on him for awhile and I'll be happy. IC title was an exciting match. The Rock getting the win in controversial fanshion helps set up a match for the next PPV, or even Wrestlemania. The Stone Cold segment was interesting, wonder what the attack was for. The tag team match was ok, wasn't a fan of the ending, though. I would have rather seen LOD get the belts, but yet again, it does drive the angle a little more. It'll be interesting where that goes. RR match was a huge write up! I love the detail you have always put into your matches, adds to the show greatly! The match was very exciting, especially coming down towards the end. I would have rather seen Triple H or Owen Hart win it all, but I think Steve Austin was the more logical choice. I could see myself going nuts at the ending, tbh. And the main event, easilly my favorite match of the night. I loved the many false finishes and back and forth matches are always great. Kane interferring is awesome, and I loved the end of the PPV, looks like Taker/Kane will face eachother at Mania. Overall, loved the show, and I love this sim. And once again, the details are incredible, but I shouldn't be too shocked considering its you. Keep up the awesome work!
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Post by chaz on Mar 5, 2011 15:00:37 GMT -5
Good starter. Very typical of the WWF at this time, rather than a fast-paced 'exciting' bout. Vader picking up the win was the right call, and I loved the finish. Makes Vader look like an absolute monster. Glad we'll see both men in the Rumble too.
Don't know whether I liked the Austin interview, just on the principle that it's hard for me to believe Austin would just be standing there ready to be interviewed. It would have been more realistic for Cole to chase after Austin to get a word from him, which he gives reluctantly.
TAKA winning is also the right call. Brian Christopher isn't a beliveable Champion. Nice little addition to the undercard.
Nice segment with The Rock, here's hoping he retains the title and continues to build momentum.
Really liked the inclusion of Henry, Funk and Foley in the Gorilla Position. I can see Henry turning on them though.
Glad Rocky retained, and although I expected Henry to make the turn, it was still a nice little surprise here. Adds more depth to the Nation, as you now have your powerhouse, big guy of the group. I see Rock dropping the belt to Shamrock at WrestleMania and moving on to bigger and better things.
Austin being attacked is cool. Very reminiscent of real life, though I'm glad it was Austin and not actually one of the DOA or whoever it was. It should add more to the Rumble match, though most of it being expectation that Austin will win.
Outlaws cheap win leads me to believe there will be a rematch with LOD. I'd like to see the belts stay with the Outlaws. LOD doesn't need them.
Tyson introduction is cool. Nice to see Vince with him rather than Shane. Makes his appearance seem more important.
The Royal Rumble was very well written. Similar to Stuffs' layout, but I like both! Glad we saw the three faces of Foley in there. That was a nice touch to keep. 'Owen Hart was dead on #15' was probably the wrong choice of words, tbh. Final four was a good choice, and Austin winning in the end doesn't surprise me at all.
Expected Michaels to win. Again, the finish was good, though not surprising. It builds Kane/Taker well. I see you put in a spot where Michaels hurt his back on the casket. I'm interested to see how far you go with that, if at all, or if it was just a simple bump in the match. Kane setting the casket on fire was cool. Looking forward to the build you give to their feud now 'Taker is 'gone'.
Great pay-per-view, though I understand there's not much you can change about your direction at this point, which let's most of the event become a bit predictable. However, the detail and smaller segments/matches were very well booked and written. Looking foward to more, dude!
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Post by DTP. on Mar 6, 2011 9:50:07 GMT -5
WWF RAW is WAR: Monday 19th January 1998 Fresno, California - Selland Arena
WWF Monday Night RAW - 8:57-10:01 CT | [Q1] A replay from this past week on RAW is WAR aired, focusing mainly on the situation where the Brothers of Destruction were a union, The Undertaker and Kane's rivalry put to a stop for an alliance, much to Paul Bearer's depression. This past Sunday the Undertaker could have won the WWF Championship against Shawn Michaels in a Casket match but Kane turned on 'Taker, locking him inside and then setting the casket on fire!
The opening video package for Monday Night RAW aired, as Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler introduced us to the program and reminded us of happenings from last night at the Royal Rumble!
The theme of Paul Bearer hit, and the crowd booed extremely loud for the man who set this all up. The announcers mention how it seems as though Bearer and Kane had planned this for weeks, to try and break The Undertaker down from the inside. And it seemingly worked. Bearer laughed maliciously, mentioning how it was him all along. The dissension with the "Big Red Machine" Kane and The Undertaker, all a method of destruction. Bearer says that he watched 'Taker grow, the "Deadman" rose to unreachable heights and became seemingly invincible. Last night and the last couple of weeks have been to prove to everybody that the Undertaker is no threat to everybody, and is no dark lord. The "Big Red Machine" is the dominant one in the family, not Undertaker. His Undertaker was a mere toy to his powers. Fuelled on the powers of the urn, the "Phenom" was only limited! But the "Machine" that is Kane, is much much greater, he is unstoppable! Kane will rise until the Undertaker is no more, and when he is no more, the "Machine" will simply keep rising and rising, and quickly destroy everybody in the World Wrestling Federation! The pyrotechnics of Kane hit as the crowd booed, the "Big Red Machine" walking to the ring and standing before Bearer. Bearer told Kane that what happened to him last week in their act was simply heinous, and he has been granted a match between Kane and the man who put his hands on him last Monday on RAW, Stone Cold Steve Austin tonight! Kane nods as he sets off the pyrotechnics.
A graphic airs, promoting the WWF Royal Rumble encore presentation. | - Commercial Break - |
Jim Ross, Kevin Kelly and Michael Cole promoted the upcoming hour of Monday Night RAW, scheduled to feature comments from D-Generation X, The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust takes on Steve Blackman, the NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament resumes, plus Stone Cold Steve Austin takes on Kane!
1) The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust (w/Luna Vachon) vs Steve Blackman @ 4:42 - This was retribution to Goldust, as Steve Blackman had blocked TAFKA Goldust's easy exit from the match with Vader last night at the Royal Rumble. Goldust had taped ribs and wore a purple singlet with matching wig, the "Lethal Weapon" not giving Goldust any offense and keeping him down with dropkicks and armdrags. Goldust soon powered his way into momentum with a running clothesline, Goldust keeping on it with a running bulldog and a spinning suplex. Blackman fired back and went for the Martial Arts Kick but Luna got in the way and Blackman laid out Luna! Goldust nailed the Curtain Call for the win! **
[Q2] The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust celebrated his win to boos, Steve Blackman still down, and Goldust checked over Luna Vachon, Goldust calling for officials. Goldust stomped at the "Lethal Weapon" blaming him for the accident as officials carried Luna away.
In the backstage area we see Marc Mero talking to Sable, telling his valet that she has a contract with Mero to keep managing him, and he'll be damned if she tries to breach it! Sable looks angry as Mero tells Sable to put on something non-revealing but nice in his tournament match tonight.
A WWF Magazine aired, highlighted by head writer, Vic Venom. | - Commercial Break - | 2) NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament Match: Marc Mero (w/Sable) def. Ahmed Johnson @ 3:57 - Ahmed Johnson's in-ring return as he had been out with an injury since December. "Marvelous" Marc Mero's ego was high, but he was still insecure as Sable stood at ringside. Ahmed easily overpowered Mero though, and Johnson seemed to be on the way to victory with the Pearl River Plunge, but Mero managed to slip out and the fight resumed. Jim Cornette, once again on commentary commented on how Ahmed didn't seem to follow the NWA's method of wrestling, as Johnson continued to beat Mero down. Sable was handed a bouqet of flowers by mini, Mosaic! Mero noticed and grabbed the flowers away from Sable. Ahmed tried to attack Mero but Mero stunned Ahmed with a knockout punch! Mero rolled Johnson up for the win. *1/4 Marc Mero celebrated his win to boos, but Mero seemed angry with Sable, shouting at her for receiving the flowers from Mosaic. Mero seemed to be looking for Mosaic as he stormed to the back.
[Q3] The WWF Slam of the Week showed a replay from last night, Vader defeating the Artist Formerly Known As Goldust with the Vader Bomb whilst Luna Vachon was on Vader's back. | - Commercial Break - | Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie were shown in the backstage area as Cactus was talking about retribution on Jeff Jarrett for contributing to his elimination last night. Charlie nodded and powered his chainsaw.
3) Kane (w/Paul Bearer) vs Stone Cold Steve Austin ended in a double count-out @ 8:48 - It was a surprise to see this match main event on the Monday Night RAW portion of the show, but the announcers were hyping "Iron" Mike Tyson's press conference in the ring in the main event of the WarZone. The Royal Rumble winner, Stone Cold was the target of the "Big Red Machine" because of the Stunner to Paul Bearer last week on the War Zone, and Austin found it hard to take down the much larger man in red. Kane overpowered Austin and tossed him around, repeatedly choking on him. Austin kept fighting Kane and taking him down, but Kane just kept sitting up. Austin had Bearer in the ring ready for a Stunner when Kane came from behind with the Tombstone Piledriver! The lights flickered as Kane was distracted, allowing Austin to get up, and the two brawled to ringside, continuing as Austin wouldn't stop fighting Kane, the two going into the crowd and getting counted out! *3/4
[Q4] Stone Cold Steve Austin and Kane kept fighting into the deeper regions of the crowd, and the "Big Red Machine" kept getting back up, Austin had a steel chair and slammed it into Kane's skull but Kane kept brawling, sending Austin down the steps in the crowd! Kane left with Paul Bearer as the crowd were shocked by the Royal Rumble Winner being laid out by Kane!
In the backstage area, Shawn Michaels and Triple H were shown with Chyna as they seemed to find it amusing how Stone Cold Steve Austin, the supposed number one contender to the WWF Championship was laid out by Kane. The "Heartbreak Kid" noted how Austin must be weak if he can get laid out by Kane, let alone Shawn! Triple H laughed as Shawn stated how he was very saddened by the demise of The Undertaker last night at Royal Rumble, but he must admit that he did beat the "Deadman" silly, and it was an honor to be Undertaker's final opponent. He finally killed the legend of Undertaker. Michaels talked about various other opposition, then noting how Triple H was to defend the WWF European Championship later tonight against one of the big ones, Vader. | WWF WarZone - 10:01-10:55 CT | The opening video package for the War Zone aired, and Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler promoted the upcoming hour of RAW is WAR, scheduled to feature Mike Tyson's press conference, Triple H defending the WWF European Championship against Vader, Cactus Jack against Jeff Jarrett, plus the New Age Outlaws will have some words!
4) Street Fight: Jeff Jarrett def. Cactus Jack @ 6:35 - This was the opportunity for "Double J" to further get known in the World Wrestling Federation. After eliminating Cactus from the Royal Rumble match last night, it seemed as though Cactus was out for revenge in this Street Fight. Jack pummeled Jarrett early on, the match involving kendo sticks, a 2x4 but the barbwire bat was quickly taken out of the game by Jarrett's agility. Jarrett picked the ribs and used a steel chair to manhandle Jack, but Jack would not stay down. Jack suddenly fired back and went for the Double Arm DDT but Jarrett headbutted Jack in the gut and used a guitar lying around, clocking Jack in the skull! Jarrett covered for the three! **
[Q5] Jeff Jarrett celebrated his win as he seemed pretty shocked at himself, "Double J" checking the smashed guitar and smirking, Chainsaw Charlie then appearing! The crowd roared as Jarrett stood not knowing what to do, Charlie getting into the ring with the chainsaw, and Charlie sawed the already broken guitar in front of Jarrett in two! Jarrett fled as Charlie attended to Cactus, then slapped him conscious! Charlie grabbed a mic and told Cactus to get up and watch a true hardcore wrestler do it right. He invites anybody in the back to a match, the theme of the Nation of Domination hitting!
An advertisement aired, promoting WWF No Way Out of Texas, live on pay-per-view on Sunday 15th February from Houston.
| - Commercial Break - |
5) Chainsaw Charlie def. Mark Henry (w/The Nation) by disqualification @ 2:48 - The Rock had the Nation in the ring across from Chainsaw Charlie and Cactus Jack as we returned to the War Zone, the WWF Intercontinental Champion telling the fans to stop chanting 'Rocky Sucks' because Fresno absolutely sucks! Rock talks about how Chainsaw Charlie is a bad son of a bitch if he thinks he's going to be here and fight someone at his age and physical ability. Rock mentions how last night he underwent a hard-hitting brawl with Ken Shamrock, a mad man that couldn't get his own way. D-Lo Brown endured fifty minutes in the Royal Rumble, so he can't compete. Faarooq's away on a family emergency, and Kama Mustafa's wrist is fractured, leaving the newest addition of the Nation, Mark Henry to take on Charlie! *1/2
Cactus Jack was quickly outnumbered as Kama Mustafa and D-Lo Brown entered the ring, and Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie tried fending Kama, D-Lo and Mark Henry off, but the numbers game was just too much! The Rock delivered a WWF Intercontinental Championship to the head of Jack, and Charlie's ribs seemed to be in a bad way after another two splashes, but Ken Shamrock and the Disciples of the Apocalypse ran to the ring, running the Nation off!
| - Commercial Break - | In the backstage area we see Shawn Michaels, Chyna and Triple H lurking as they run into the boss in the World Wrestling Federation, Vince McMahon, Vince asking the trio if they were up to something against Vader tonight. Shawn seemed offended, reassuring Vince that they'd never do that. They may cause mischief, but that's going against his orders! Vince tells D-Generation X to keep away from his Mike Tyson press conference and he'll be happy. DX wanders off.
[Q6] Marc Mero was shown in the minis locker room as "Marvelous" Marc found himself being restrained by four or five of the little guys, Mero's target being Mosaic! Sable came in and facepalmed as he was held back by the group. The New Age Outlaws were shown on their way to the ring as the WWF Tag Team Champions were talking about how they were offended by the actions of Animal and Hawk last night at the Royal Rumble, and their attempts to end the careers of two of the World Wrestling Federation's hottest projects, "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn and "Road Dogg" Jesse James. The Outlaws state that the Legion of Doom were blatantly trying to destroy them, and ruin their prettyboy looks that everybody secretly loves. The Outlaws mention how the Legion of Doom they had a problem with, because all along they were trying to kill younger careers, and so they made a mark, and if Hawk and Animal want, they can try to take their careers. Just not in a sanctioned match in the WWF, and not for their titles! The theme of LOD hit, and the crowd roared, Hawk and Animal coming out to the rampway to a loud ovation, Hawk talking about how all of which the Outlaws just said was absolute bullsh*t! The crowd cheered at the profanity, Animal telling Gunn that it's not that they're pretty boys, but they need to respect them! Jesse James comments on how old-school the Legion of Doom were, and how they would never score with the mohawks. Hawk answered by telling James that the Outlaws probably don't get action either, because the Outlaws look like a couple of queers! Hawk tells the Outlaws that they've been asking around and managed to hunt out a match, that being on February 15th at No Way Out of Texas, a steel-cage match for the WWF Tag Team Championships, but if the Outlaws win, then Hawk and Animal are no more! The crowd roars as the Outlaws look at each other, then accept!
The WWF European Championship was shown as being on the line next between Triple H and Vader!
| - Commercial Break - | Steve Austin was shown trashing the locker room backstage, and the winner of the 1998 Royal Rumble was not pleased at how he was assaulted by Kane earlier tonight! Austin was mad and running around as officials followed.
[Q7] 6) WWF European Championship: Triple H (w/Shawn Michaels and Chyna) def. Vader to retain @ 6:21 - D-Generation X had problems with the big man they call Vader, as the challenger in this match pounded away at the WWF Championship before the bell began, jumping the gun, taking down Triple H and pounding into Shawn Michaels! Triple H managed to get Vader off though, but Vader dominated Triple H for the majority of the match. Triple H was still a little rusty off of that leg injury from last month, his first match back tonight, and Vader pinpointed it perfectly. Vader soon quickly prepared the Vader Bomb to annihilate and take the WWF European Championship, but Michaels got involved! Owen Hart ran to ringside and pulled HBK down, "Black Hart" laying the "Heartbreak Kid" out at ringside, then shoving Chyna down! The official was distracted, and Triple H slammed the title belt into Vader's skull twice for the win! ** Triple H rolled out of the ring as Owen Hart slid in, attending to Vader. DX headed up the rampway, Shawn Michaels worn out, and "Black Hart" yelled at Shawn and D-Generation X that he'd had enough!
Mike Tyson was shown with a grin on his face, his crew behind him and he was heading for the ring, his interview with Vince McMahon up next! | - Commercial Break - | [Q8] Vince McMahon was in the ring as he told the WWF fans in Fresno to calm down because the boss had a surprise for everybody, the multi-time boxing champion of the world, "Iron" Mike Tyson! The crowd cheered and booed Tyson as he got a mixed reaction, Tyson accompanied by his crew and Tyson got in the ring, shaking Vince's hand and hugging him, Tyson then being asked by McMahon about his reaction in the World Wrestling Federation. Tyson tells Vince that he feels positive about this, and he would love to be in the main event of WrestleMania XIV, what about Stone Cold against Shawn Michaels, Mike Tyson as the referee!? The crowd cheered as Vince smirked and told him that it could happen, he's now an authorised member of the WWF roster after all. Suddenly, the theme of Stone Cold hit and the arena erupted! Austin came to the ring and told everybody to forget about the "Biggest, Baddest Man on the Planet", because Stone Cold had a problem, and it's regarding Kane! The crowd cheered more as Vince tells Austin to get out of here. Austin tells Vince to do his job right for once and not crooked, and give him a match with Kane where the rules are fair! Mike tells Austin to lay off the boss, Steve reacting negatively, telling sternly he wants Kane's ass whipped in this ring by Stone Cold, and this jokester that doesn't belong in a WRESTLING ring should get out! Tyson shoved Steve, and Austin ran at him! Officials hit the ring as Austin was restrained, and Tyson was restrained! Tyson yelled at Stone Cold telling him that the WWF sucked! Vince was yelling as he tried to restrain Tyson, yelling to Austin and saying that he ruined it! The War Zone goes off the air as Stone Cold leaves angrily! |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 7, 2011 15:43:44 GMT -5
THE BRIT REPORT Presented by Mike Potter on Thursday 22nd January 1998
-- The Royal Rumble this past Sunday was considered a decent success for the World Wrestling Federation. It featured an ideal mix between wrestling and entertainment, although wrestling took up the majority of the show [as it usually does]. The Royal Rumble match seemed to show the evolution of next generation talent, and showed the possible targets for big stars in 1998 and beyond; such as technicians like Jeff Jarrett, Owen Hart, Ken Shamrock, Triple H and The Rock. As well as big men that can bring entertainment through, such as Mick Foley's personas, Kurrgan and Vader. However, it seemed likely that Stone Cold Steve Austin would win the Rumble match, which he did. In other action on the show, TAKA Michinoku and Brian Christopher were praised for putting on a solid impromptu title match. Other matches such as The Rock against Ken Shamrock & Shawn Michaels against The Undertaker proved as strong outings.
-- The Brit feels however that RAW is WAR the next night had a mediocre effect. It was more based and filled with storylines, as expected with the Road to WrestleMania beginning. The storyline with Kane and The Undertaker is inspiring a new dark storyline which among the dirtsheets, have not been as popular as expected. Many believe that Kane is not ready, and that the storyline cannot be taken seriously, but the Brit feels it could definitely work if they pull it off correctly. Other situations such as Steve Austin's brawl with Mike Tyson, that angle on RAW has received a mass amount of publicity for the WWF, with Austin vs Tyson for WrestleMania XIV being hinted. Other scenarios, like the New Age Outlaws and the Legion of Doom in a steel cage match was nice, but the 'intense' promo on RAW was not as good as expected. On the wrestling side of the show, matches such as Kane vs Stone Cold; Steve Blackman vs TAFKA Goldust and Jeff Jarrett vs Cactus Jack were the calling card on the show, the European title main event also had a positive reaction on the crowd. The rest of the card received faulty finishes, or simply not allowed to get off the ground with time allocations.
-- WWF's RAW rating this week received a 3.9 rating, which still does not compare to WCW Nitro's 4.6 rating. It is expected that Mike Tyson's debut in the World Wrestling Federation boosted the rating.
-- The media have been focusing on the Mike Tyson and Steve Austin brawl a lot this past week. Tyson has been told by WWF officials not to accept any public appearances to add drama and ratings to RAW next week, where all will be revealed. Apparently a Tyson vs Austin match at WrestleMania XIV is in the ranks, but it's unlikely since Austin won the Royal Rumble and has been guaranteed a WWF Championship 'Mania match. Austin will also face Kane at No Way Out of Texas, most likely in a gimmick match.
-- WWF No Way Out of Texas: In Your House is on 02/15/98. The current card consists of: - Steve Austin vs Kane - The New Age Outlaws vs The Legion of Doom in a steel-cage match for the WWF Tag Team Championships; if LOD loses, they must leave the WWF.
-- In results from the WWF's Royal Rumble on 01/18/98: - Vader def. TAFKA Goldust - TAKA Michinoku def. Brian Christopher to retain the WWF Light Heavyweight Title - The Rock def. Ken Shamrock to retain the WWF Intercontinental Title - The Legion of Doom def. The New Age Outlaws by count-out; the Outlaws retain the WWF Tag Team Titles. - Steve Austin def. Triple H & 28 other superstars in the 1998 Royal Rumble match. - Shawn Michaels def. The Undertaker to retain the WWF Title in a Casket match
-- In results from RAW is WAR on 01/19/98: - TAFKA Goldust def. Steve Blackman - Marc Mero def. Ahmed Johnson in an NWA North American Heavyweight Title Tournament match - Kane vs Steve Austin; double count-out - Jeff Jarrett def. Cactus Jack in a Street Fight - Mark Henry def. Chainsaw Charlie by DQ - Triple H def. Vader to retain the WWF European Title
-- In results from Monday Nitro on 01/19/98: - Rick Martel def. Eddie Guerrero - Chris Benoit def. Marty Jannetty - Ernest Miller def. Jerry Flynn - The Steiner Brothers def. Buff Bagwell & Konnan - Booker T def. Mortis to retain the WCW World Television Title - Chris Jericho def. Juventud Guerrera - Lex Luger def. Scott Hall - The Giant def. Hollywood Hogan by DQ
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Post by duan on Mar 9, 2011 13:09:54 GMT -5
Royal Rumble 1998... Sorry its taken me so long to get to replying, but better late than not! Awesome graphics and I expect no less from Chaz. Good start to open the PPV and hopefully end this terrible feud. Vader going over is logical and hopefully there is a decent push in store for him. Austin looking to raise hell no matter what is exactly what I want to hear! YES! TAKA retains even though King tried to get involved! Nice job booking there. Rock becoming the #1 in the Nation already? FAAROOQ NOT OBJECTING?! DISLIKE! But I do like how the Rock has to face Shamrock one-on-one! I knew it! Things were going too well for Henry and Shamrock and Henry goes to turn on him. Makes perfect sense though, so nice job. Austin is the victim of revenge here. Having LOD win, but the NAO retain is probably the smartest thing to do here. LOD would have no use for the tag belts now. Tyson wants Austin to win! Wow, really like the format you used for the actual Rumble. Everything was easy to follow and I like the whose in the ring reminders. No surprise Austin picks up the win and that is one elite final four man. A rumble under an hour? Strange. YES! Thank god you went the same way as in real life with Kane screwing Taker and lighting him ablaze. Perfect way to end a solid PPV my man.
Raw 1/19/98... Here we go, Rumble aftermath! Very nice opening promo from Bearer and Kane. Kane/Austin should be crazy for a Raw main event, but this is the era of awesome live tv. Damn, Goldie gets the win, but I rather see the Blackman push! VIC VENOM! YESSSSSSSSSSS! Thank god for Mero over Johnson. I'm not the biggest Mero fan, but for god sake I HATE Johnson. Such a terrible worker. Possible Austin/Kane at No Way Out...I can see it happening definitely. Beauty of TV matches is that they don't always need a resolution. Solid main event for Raw Dan. Kane lays him out even after a chair shot, that's crazy! When was this made a street fight? Dislike. Although I do like Jarrett going over! Don't blow his push man. Oh man, looks like a competition between Charlie/Jack. Henry/Charlie must have been pretty brutal and I'm happy it ended fast. Shamrock & the DOA! The Sable/Mero/Minis segment made me laugh out loud. Like the tag stipulation for No Way Out, as it definitely fits this feud. Triple H steals the win because of Owen Hart...how ironic. Glad to see Vader have a title shot though. The Tyson/Austin segment was one of my favorite moments of all time and the 7 year old in me is marking out hard after reading this. Nice job with Raw man, you definitely deserve the spotlight.
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Post by DTP. on Mar 9, 2011 15:00:24 GMT -5
WWF Shotgun Saturday Night: Saturday 24th January 1998 Fresno, California - Selland Arena # | Match Result | Time | 0 | Flash Funk def. El Pantera after the 450 Splash. | n/a | 1 | Kurrgan def. The Black Phantom after the Paralyzer. | 1:09 | 2 | El Torito def. Tarantula after the Bullsault. | 3:23 | 3 | Savio Vega & Jose Estrada def. The Headbangers after the Spinning Heel Kick by Vega on Mosh. | 4:23 | 4 | TAKA Michinoku & The Godwinns def. Jerry Lawler, Brian Christopher & Scott Taylor after the Slop Drop on Lawler. | 5:34 |
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Post by shiftyeyes on Mar 9, 2011 16:08:37 GMT -5
A solid promo with Paul Bearer to open the show, glad that the reasons have been adressed for the assault on Taker the previous night, and the 'unity' they showed last week was certainly enough to put me off the scent of a possible Kane/Taker feud. Blackman catching Luna with a a kick is sure to start a feud between TAFKAGoldust and Blackman, just feel it's a shame Goldust isn't comedy Goldust as those two feuding would be pretty fun to watch. I see Sable breaking away from Mero soon. Vic Venom is Vince Russo, right? Mero going over Johnson is the right call, as I feel Johnson's time has passed now. I like the amount of exposure Goldust is getting, getting the feeling he's going to be pushed soon. A huge main event for RAW with Kane and Austin going at it, that would pull in some viewers for the WarZone. I like how ridiculous Shawn Michaels is in his claims, such as surprise at Kane being a threat, and how he 'beat' Undertaker. Very clever way of telling the viewer about the European Championship match. I don't see Vader going over if I'm honest. Jarrett getting a huge rub there from going over Jarrett. I expect he'll win the NWA Tournament you have going on to continue his push. Funk coming out is cool to see, and I expect he'll be used as a jobber here. Yes, definitely jobbing to Mark Henry! Only by disqualification? Hmm. Beatdown by the Nation, but a save by the DOA and Shamrock tells me Shamrock's still wanting Rock's title. This Sable and Mero thing seems pretty amusing, keep with it. I loved the promo between the LOD and the NAO, awesome stuff, and the comeback of Hawk to the not scoring comment was pretty win! I expect a screwy finish to the match at NWO, and to see the feud close at Wrestlemania. As expected HHH goes over against Vader, though I'm glad it's not clean. The closing promo with Tyson, Vince, and Austin was okay, but I'm not sure about how Tyson went from saying he felt positive to saying the WWF sucked. That is kind of burying the product if I'm honest, and I wouldn't have had him say that, especially in the middle of the Monday Night Wars, though saying that my knowledge of this time is kind of hazy, haha. Solid show up unti the end in my opinion, just wasn't feeling that part of the show, but it certainly wasn't enough to bring down what was otherwise a good show!
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Post by DTP. on Mar 10, 2011 17:47:16 GMT -5
WWF RAW is WAR: Monday 26th January 1998 Davis, California - Recreation Hall
WWF Monday Night RAW - 8:57-10:02 CT | [Q1] Highlights from last week's episode of the RAW is WAR aired, as Stone Cold Steve Austin met Kane in a ruckus match that ended with a double count-out. Austin was laid out, but proceeded to go on a rampage, interrupting Mike Tyson's debut in the World Wrestling Federation. The two got into a massive brawl, which gained media attraction throughout the past week. Tyson responds tonight! The opening video package to Monday Night RAW aired, as pyrotechnics go off and Jim Ross & Jerry "The King" Lawler introduced us to the show. We open up RAW tonight with Mr Vince McMahon in the ring accompanied by Pat Patterson, Gerald Brisco and Commissioner Slaughter; the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation talking about how this is meant to be the most exciting time in the company since the man in yellow and white was facing the muscled freak with facepaint. He reminded us that Mike Tyson made his World Wrestling Federation debut last week to poor fanfare from the fans. He says that they need to respect the former World Boxing Champion, as he cost a lot of cash to bring in to entertain us! McMahon reminded us that Stone Cold Steve Austin was the man who won this year's Royal Rumble, but what he did last week was so in bad taste that it should really punish Austin. And he could take the "Texas Rattlesnake"'s WWF Championship shot at WrestleMania XIV away from him, or he could put Austin in a bad, bad place. McMahon tells us that tonight we will see Stone Cold in the ring issuing an APOLOGY to "Iron" Mike Tyson, and Mike will be wearing boxing gloves in case of an attack. But that's not it! Stone Cold wanted the "Big Red Machine" and he'll have the documents next Monday night on RAW is WAR, Stone Cold vs Kane at No Way Out of Texas in the first ever Last Man Standing match! The crowd seemed intrigued, suddenly the theme of the Nation of Domination hit, and McMahon and his corporate trio left.
Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler promoted the matches on this hour of RAW is WAR, six man tag action as the Nation takes on Cactus Jack, Chainsaw Charlie and Ken Shamrock; Jerry Lawler takes on TAKA Michinoku; the NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament resumes, plus Stone Cold apologises to Mike Tyson!? | - Commercial Break - | The Rock stood in the ring with Faarooq, Kama Mustafa, Mark Henry and D-Lo Brown as the Nation of Domination had taken over the ring. The WWF Intercontinental Champion talked about how he had led the Nation to their highest point thus far, but they need to wait and see what heights they can reach. 1998 will be the year of the African American Dream Team, and the World Wrestling Federation will be electrified!
[Q2] 1) Cactus Jack, Ken Shamrock and Chainsaw Charlie def. The Rock, Faarooq and Mark Henry (w/D-Lo Brown and Kama Mustafa) @ 6:16 - Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie actually seemed interested in getting involved with the match rather than getting themselves disqualified instantly. Cactus and Charlie were suffering from a previous beating at the hands of the Nation of Domination last week, and Ken Shamrock made the save. The "World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock seemed motivated to go after the WWF Inercontinental Champion, and chaos broke up as Jack and Chainsaw gave Mark Henry a double DDT onto the steel steps at ringside. D-Lo and Kama then got involved. Inside the ring, Faarooq was given the belly-to-back suplex by Shamrock and that was it! *1/2
Ken Shamrock rolled out of the ring as Kama Mustafa and D-Lo Brown slid in, Faarooq attended to. Chainsaw Charlie and Cactus Jack turned Kama and D-Lo around to stereo-chair shots from the "Hardcore Legends"! The Nation fled as Rock looked angry with this competition!
In the parking lot we see Triple H and Shawn Michaels with Chyna arriving at the arena, D-Generation X talking about their plans for tonight, involving Shawn Michaels taking on Owen Hart!
| - Commercial Break - | An advertisement for WWF Magazine aired, as promoted by editor, Vic Venom.
Returning to RAW is WAR, the current semi-finalists in the NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament consisting of Jeff Jarrett, Barry Windham and Marc Mero shown on chairs at ringside, Jim Cornette; the leader of the NWA division here in the World Wrestling Federation in the ring as the crowd seemed to dislike him. Cornette talked about how they've reached the final match in the quarter-final round of the title tournament, and with only two weeks until No Way Out of Texas, he has decided that next week we will see the two semi-finals take place, and the finals will occur on pay-per-view at No Way Out of Texas! He takes a seat at commentary.
2) NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament Match: Vader def. Savio Vega (w/Los Boricuas) @ 3:48 - Los Boricuas had a lot to fare off tonight, as Savio Vega went up against the massive Vader, Vader managing to easily throw Vega around the ring with ease. The interruptions from Los Boricuas managed to catch Vader off though, and Savio used his agile feet to get in the way of the big man's power. Savio attempted a moonsault but Vader caught him and powerslammed him with authority. Vader took out Jose Estrada and Miguel Perez before semi-finalist Barry Windham aided him, Windham with a hard lariat to Jesus Castillo! Vader nailed the Vader Bomb on Vega for the win. *1/2
Vader celebrated his win as Los Boricuas remained unconscious and destroyed around him. Barry Windham got into the ring and glared at Vader, but next week we will see Jeff Jarrett go up against Windham, and Marc Mero will face Vader in the semi-finals of this NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament!
In the backstage area Triple H is talking to Chyna about how they really need to watch themselves because so many people are gunning for that massive D-Generation X team of ultimate chaos. Shawn came from the bathroom, saying he'd stunk that place out, and managed to blame it on Ahmed Johnson as Hunter laughed at how Ahmed was a potential WWF Champion last year. They keep walking as they were confronted by the hostile Legion of Doom! The crowd cheered, but Hawk and Animal told DX that they were looking for the New Age Outlaws. DX told them they hadn't seem them.
| - Commercial Break - | [Q3] 3) Jerry Lawler (w/Brian Christopher) def. TAKA Michinoku @ 4:40 - This match was set up last Monday night on RAW is WAR during commentary by the "King". Jerry Lawler had TAKA Michinoku outsized, overpowered and outnumbered, but the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion surprisingly used his agility to keep on top of RAW's color commentator to the affection of these fans. Flash Funk was shown in the backstage area wearing black and wearing a bandana, spectating on this, and Jerry Lawler soon found offense after a hard-hitting clothesline. Lawler worked over TAKA's neck, and seemed to be preparing the Piledriver but Michinoku fired back, the Michinoku Driver attempted, but Lawler was too heavy and splashed TAKA! Moments later, the Piledriver ended it. **
Jerry Lawler celebrated his win by stomping away at the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion, Brian Christopher his 'accomplish' joining in on the double team attack of TAKA Michinoku. Flash Funk made the save, dropkicks to both men and running Lawler and Christopher away!
Stone Cold Steve Austin was shown on his way to the ring, and he will apologise to "Iron" Mike Tyson, next!? | - Commercial Break - | [Q4] The crowd went crazy as Stone Cold Steve Austin made his way down the rampway tonight on Monday Night RAW, Austin climbing into the ring and getting straight to the point, Austin mentioning how he's been told to apologise by the authority that is Vince "I Have A Cockroach Or Two Hundred In My Ass" McMahon and Commissioner "I Supported America Once" Slaughter. The fact of the matter is that it was "Iron" Mike Tyson that crossed him last week, not the "Texas Rattlesnake". Austin stated how in two weeks at No Way Out of Texas he faces the "Big Red Machine" Kane in this Last Man Standing match, whatever the hell that is, and he doesn't know what the hell to do! Austin does however guarantee that he will obliterate this undefeated force, Kane and it will be in the most violent way he can think of! The theme of Tyson cut him off, and the crowd actually erupted for "Iron" Mike, the Boxing World Champion arriving with his crew backing him up, Tyson wearing his gloves to add effect in case of Austin outraging. Tyson tells Austin to calm down, Mike removing his gloves and telling Austin that it is him who apologises. This has been all over the media all week long, and he does not want to be enemies with Austin. The man he predicted to win the Royal Rumble was Steve Austin and he will be backing him all the way to the WWF Championship at WrestleMania XIV! Tyson asks Austin for one chance to be his bodyguard from outside the ring assaults. Austin glares at everybody before shaking his hand! The crowd cheer as they seemed to have formed a union, and RAW goes off the air!
| WWF WarZone - 10:02-10:57 CT |
We open up the War Zone to the video package as well as the pyrotechnics, Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler introducing us to the War Zone and reminding us of what occurred on RAW is WAR in its first hour.
4) Steve Blackman vs The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust @ 5:24 - This was a rematch from last week's edition of RAW is WAR, The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust apparently trying to avenge his girlfriend, Luna Vachon as this past Monday night on RAW is WAR, Steve Blackman inadvertently nailing Luna with the Martial Arts Kick. Apparently Luna was traumatised and was at home recovering during this match, the "Lethal Weapon" seemingly just trying to chop the Artist Formerly Known As Goldust down with his hard-hitting kicks. TAFKA Goldust worked the shoulder of Blackman, seemingly going for the Curtain Call later on but Blackman small packaged Goldust for a near fall. Goldust got up and walked right into the Martial Arts Kick for the win! **
[Q5] Steve Blackman celebrated his win as The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust backed up, Goldust leaving in disapproval. Blackman was then attacked from behind by Kurrgan the Interrogator, with the Jackyl! Kurrgan nailed the Chokeslam on the "Lethal Weapon", leaving Blackman unconscious.
Coming up in the War Zone this week, we will hear from Sable; plus the New Age Outlaws take on the Headbangers in non-title action; Paul Bearer has some comments for us, plus some announcements by Mr McMahon, and in non-title action, Shawn Michaels takes on Owen Hart! | - Commercial Break - | D-Generation X were shown in their locker room as Triple H was sat down talking to Shawn in the other room about how tonight he will face Owen Hart and give the nugget something else to whine about. Shawn's voice echoed, agreeing as the "Heartbreak Kid" yelled for Chyna to throw him his tights. Chyna threw them as Shawn mentioned how tonight was a good night for DX, just like every night!
Jim Ross talked to us about how Sable had officially parted ways from "Marvelous" Marc Mero, and he had caught some pre-taped words from the luscious diva earlier today. Sable talked about how she was trying her best to be the most standout woman in the World Wrestling Federation, stating how hard that was against women like Chyna and Sunny. Sable offered her managerial assistances to any WWF superstar on the roster.
5) Non-Title Match: The Headbangers def. The New Age Outlaws @ 5:22 - The Headbangers were all over the New Age Outlaws tonight, but Road Dogg and Billy Gunn remained cocky against Mosh and Thrasher. The former WWF Tag Team Champions' managed to keep on top of Road Dogg using their agility though, double DDT almost scoring the upset victory against the Outlaws. Billy Gunn got into the ring and "Bad Ass" went right to work, putting the boots to Mosh and keeping him away from Headbanger Thrasher. Mosh was given the diving legdrop [dubbed the 'Fameasser'] but Thrasher managed to get in to make the save. Jesse James came into the ring and traded fists with Mosh, the theme of the Legion of Doom playing! Thrasher came out of nowhere with the Stage Dive, and Thrasher stole the win! **
[Q6] Mosh and Thrasher dashed out of the ring, the Headbangers with a big win over the WWF Tag Team Champions tonight! The New Age Outlaws looked on in outrage from the ring, the Legion of Doom appearing on the rampway, big smirks on show. They signal them wanting the titles, and it could happen at No Way Out of Texas!
| - Commercial Break - | 6) Skull and 8-Ball def. D-Lo Brown and Kama Mustafa by disqualification @ 4:25 - A continuation from the opening contest of RAW is WAR tonight, The Rock teaming with Faarooq and Mark Henry to take on Ken Shamrock, Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie, and it was Shamrock's team who was succesful. D-Lo Brown really showed potential as he managed to put down 8-Ball, in fact managing to put the Disciples of the Apocalypse on hiatus, but Kama's martial arts attempt was a failure, 8-Ball tagging in Skull and the DOA managed to fire their way back into offense. The match ended unfaithfully as The Rock hit the ring and took 8-Ball's head off with the WWF Intercontinental Championship! *1/2
The Nation of Domination filled the ring as they had handcuffs, The Rock and Faarooq beating apart Skull and 8-Ball of the Disciples of the Apocalypse. Everybody wondered where Ken Shamrock, Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie was at, cutting to the backstage area to notice a forklift blocking a locker room down! Banging was heard as Rock, Mark Henry, D-Lo Brown, Kama Mustafa and Faarooq taunted over DOA's bodies.
A vignette aired, promoting the return of Fatu. It showed plenty of street fights and casualties in street fights. | - Commercial Break - | [Q8] Mr McMahon was shown in his office with Commissioner Slaughter, Pat Patterson and Gerald Brisco revealing to us that the No Way Out of Texas pay-per-view is in three weeks on February 15th. He reveals to us that currently, the WWF Tag Team Championships are at stake in a steel cage match, the New Age Outlaws defending against the Legion of Doom; but if LOD lose, then they must leave the WWF forever; He also announces Stone Cold Steve Austin against Kane in the first-ever Last Man Standing match, the stipulations to that match revealed next week on RAW; McMahon also decides to make TAKA Michinoku defend the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship against Flash Funk and Brian Christopher; plus, The Nation of Domination will take on Ken Shamrock, Cactus Jack, Chainsaw Charlie and the Disciples of the Apocalypse in a no holds barred ten-man tag team match; But also, if Owen Hart beats Shawn Michaels tonight, he will get a WWF Championship shot at HBK at No Way Out of Texas! McMahon looks content.
In the backstage area, "Black Hart" Owen Hart is shown and he is heading to face Shawn Michaels in non-title action, our main event! He passes Stone Cold Steve Austin, and those two could end up meeting at WrestleMania XIV. Owen vs Shawn; next!
7) Non-Title Match: Owen Hart def. Shawn Michaels (c) (w/Triple H and Chyna) @ 11:54 - This was a grand main event, the type of action we have not yet seen in the year 1998 on WWF RAW is WAR until tonight. Owen Hart and Shawn Michaels, long time rivals dating as far back as 1995 took on each other and went all out. "Black Hart" was definitely after that WWF Championship, and Shawn Michaels continuously tried to escape, almost getting himself disqualified and counted out, but Owen dragged him back. The show went through a Commercial Break as the fans watched biting their fingernails. The WWF European Champion, Triple H tried to get involved but luckily Vader came out and scared Triple H up the ramp! Chyna took a swing at Vader but found herself cowering too! Shawn Michaels set up the Sweet Chin Music and connected, but Owen kicked out! HBK tried another, getting irritated, but Owen played possum and rolled through into the Sharpshooter, and Shawn had nowhere to go! He almost got the ropes but Owen pulled him a long way away! Shawn tapped as the crowd roared! ***1/4
[OVR] "Black Hart" celebrated to an outrageous response, Owen Hart jumping with joy at the fact he was now in contention to the WWF Championship! Owen watched as the WWF Champion, Shawn Michaels slipped away with help from Triple H and Chyna, the "Heartbreak Kid" had tapped out to Owen, and Owen was now facing Shawn Michaels at No Way Out of Texas! RAW is WAR goes off the air. |
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Post by chaz on Mar 11, 2011 17:02:33 GMT -5
I liked the McMahon promo to open. Seems most logical to address Tyson's debut. Nice Hogan/Warrior reference. I like the attitude that you have Vince portray, focused on cash and reputation. Seems like Austin should have had his title shot taken away if Vince is going to threaten him with it, though I understand that he'd want to make him suffer. The apology segment should be interesting especially with Tyson "geared" up. If you're going to announce the "first ever" Last Man Standing match then I think the rules should be explained too. Kane/Austin should be great though.
So when did The Rock take leadership of the Nation from Faarooq? Because I remember it being much later on. Despite that mistake, I am excited at the prospect of a push for the Nation.
Big win for Shamrock/Cactus/Chainsaw. I probably would have had Rock go all cowardly like he was during this period and throw in D'Lo or Kama in his place. This would be good build in his feud with Shamrock. I can imagine Shamrock "snapping" about not being able to get to Rock.
Interesting Cornette announcement. It's nice to see the tournament mapped out as I think it needs to end. The whole NWA invasion was a bit odd in my opinion.
Vader progressing is cool, and I can definitely see him beating Windham in the final.
The DX segment was alright. Didn't really serve much purpose other than the LOD interaction.
TAKA losing didn't do him many favours, but did develop his feud with Brian Christopher. I like the inclusion of Lawler in this. Flash Funk making the save is interesting. Expecting some sort of tag match at NWOT.
Really would have saved the Austin segment until last. Seems like a typical Austin promo. The swerve is too obvious because it's definitely not in Tyson's nature to act apologetic nor wanting to form any sort of alliance with Austin.
Blackman vs. Goldust is alright, nice to see Blackman winning too. Dislike the post-match Kurrgan attack for the fact that Kurrgan is awful.
Interested to see who you pair Sable up with now, though I think soon it should be time for her to break away on her own, considering how popular she was at this time.
Mosh and Thrasher beating NAO is cool. Good finish with the LOD distraction. Would prefer to see LOD/NAO at WrestleMania rather than NWOT, purely because three PPV title matches in a row may be too much (I assume we'll be getting three).
Nice interview with Bearer. Standard stuff.
Not seeing why the Nation attacked the DOA. Locking Shamrock, Cactus and Chainsaw in their locker room didn't do much either.
Fatu? Awesome!
LOD having to leave the WWF forever? I can see them losing and being repackaged. Hopefully Owen earns the title shot! It'd do a lot for him to be considered a credible main event, though I suspect it'll just be build for a WrestleMania match between him and Triple H.
Very, very big win for Owen. I like what you're doing with him. He and Shawn should put on another great performance at NWOT. Nice ending, though I would have switched this with the Austin segment.
Decent episode. Booking was a little odd in places but generally you have this era nailed. Can't wait for more!
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Post by duan on Mar 12, 2011 14:27:40 GMT -5
Monday Night Raw 1/26/98... Pumping these out pretty fans Dano. Austin public apology/Last Man Standing is something to look forward to man. Really dislike Faarooq stepping aside with no problems and the Rock taking over. Just doesn't seem right. Interesting to see the makeshift team over the Nation, but it progresses the feud I guess. VIC VENOM~! Hopefully Vader takes the win in this match as the final four would be pretty stellar. Yes! Vader with help from Windham, awesome stuff there! Lawler over TAKA is meh, but I guess TAKA needs to lose momentum a bit. DUDE YES, TYSON WITH AUSTIN IS PURELY AWESOME! I love it so much, I'm marking out hard. Blackman with the win, but gets destroyed by Kurrgan. This could be an interesting feud if you go that way. Holy moly, Headbangers over NAO is surprising, but this is 1998. Good Bearer promo to state that Kane is indeed afraid of nothing. Nation looking pretty dominant in the next segment. Still don't like the Rock taking over without confrontation. Fatu? Badass. No Way Out sounds stacked already. Owen getting a shot is logical and it should be a solid Pay-Per-View, nice Raw Dan.
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Post by DTP. on Mar 12, 2011 15:26:49 GMT -5
THE BRIT REPORT Presented by Mike Potter on Thursday 29th January 1998
-- WCW Souled Out last night appeared to have obliterated the World Wrestling Federation's Royal Rumble pay-per-view in the ring and entertainment wise, apparently. Souled Out featured a massive blend of technical wrestling with high-flying action, and everybody seemed to put on a wrestling clinic. The match of the night was Chris Jericho against Rey Mysterio Jr, which should be telling management something about the younger stars, such as the cruiserweights. Bret Hart made his in-ring debut at this event, defeating Ric Flair.
-- RAW is WAR on Monday was decent, it featured superior in-ring action blended with some entertaining segments. A lot of hype was put into No Way Out of Texas in two weeks time. In fact, the card for No Way Out of Texas is apparently all we have for the show, surprisingly. The Brit believes that the show lacked something, though. They could have capitalized on a feud between Stone Cold and Mike Tyson, maybe leading to WrestleMania XIV in some capacity, but instead the situation was shot dead with an alliance made. We're expecting Austin to end this scenario with a Stunner on Tyson... The matches were highly praised last night, in particularly, Owen Hart against Shawn Michaels & TAKA Michinoku against Jerry Lawler. TAKA should surely be getting some respect now.
-- Kurrgan is currently being repackaged from being in the Truth Commission to becoming more of a solo performer. Kurrgan has been a favorite of the WWF higher-ups since his inaugural appearance last fall. Sniper and Recon's futures are uncertain, but odds are they will remain a tag team.
-- The WWF dropped back down to a 3.5 this week for RAW is WAR, losing to WCW Monday Nitro's 4.7.
-- The WWF has No Way Out of Texas on 02/15/98. The current card is as follows: - Owen Hart vs Shawn Michaels for the WWF Championship - Stone Cold vs Kane in a 'Last Man Standing' match - The Nation of Domination vs Ken Shamrock, Chainsaw Charlie, Cactus Jack and the Disciples of the Apocalypse in a no-holds barred ten-man tag team match. - The New Age Outlaws vs The Legion of Doom in a steel-cage match for the WWF Tag Team Championships; if LOD lose, they must leave the WWF. - TAKA Michinoku vs Flash Funk vs Brian Christopher for the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship
-- In results from RAW is WAR 01/26/98: - Ken Shamrock, Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie def. The Rock, Mark Henry and Faarooq - Vader def. Savio Vega in an NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament match - Jerry Lawler def. TAKA Michinoku - Steve Blackman def. TAFKA Goldust - The Headbangers def. The New Age Outlaws in a non-title match - Skull and 8-Ball def. Kama Mustafa and D-Lo Brown by DQ - Owen Hart def. Shawn Michaels in a non-title match
-- In results from Souled Out on 01/24/98: - Juventud Guerrera, Super Calo, Lizmark Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr def. La Parka, Psychosis, Silver King and El Dandy - Chris Benoit def. Raven in a No Disqualification match - Chris Jericho def. Rey Mysterio Jr to win the WCW World Cruiserweight title - Booker T def. Rick Martel to retain the WCW World Television title - Larry Zbyszko def. Scott Hall by DQ - Ray Traylor, Scott Steiner & Rick Steiner def. Konnan, Buff Bagwell & Scott Norton - Kevin Nash def. The Giant - Bret Hart def. Ric Flair - Lex Luger def. Randy Savage
-- In results from Monday Nitro 01/26/98: - Ultimo Dragon def. El Dandy - Bill Goldberg def. Brad Armstrong - Konnan def. Jerry Flynn - Buff Bagwell def. Rick Steiner - Jim Neidhart def. Lane Bloom - Psychosis def. Chavo Guerrero Jr - Louie Spiccolli def. Juventud Guerrera - Raven def. Mortis - Diamond Dallas Page def. Wrath to retain the WCW US Heavyweight Title - Booker T def. Saturn by DQ to retain the WCW World Television Title - Davey Boy Smith def. Steve McMichael - Ray Traylor def. Kevin Nash - Lex Luger def. Scott Hall
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Post by Planktung on Mar 13, 2011 15:52:41 GMT -5
A good start to Raw with McMahon and company addressing Austin's actions towards Mike Tyson. Looking forward to seeing what goes down during Austin's 'apology'. Same goes for the Last Man Standing Match at No Way Out Of Texas. Solid Six Man Tag Match. Not a bad call to have Shamrock, Charlie and Cactus Jack go over The Nation. Glad to see Vader advance in the NWA Championship Tournament. Predicting a Vader/Double-J Finals. Lawler over TAKA is fine, interested in the Father/Son pairing with Lawler and Christopher. Very odd to see Tyson be the one to apologize. Despite that, I'm intrigued to see what McMahon's reaction is. A solid win for Steve Blackman over Goldust. Not really into a Kurrgan/Blackman feud tbh. The Headbangers over The NAO due to distractions for LOD adds some great heat to the fued. Looking forward the their bout at No Way Out Of Texas. Decent stuff with The Nation beating down and handcuffing Skull and 8-Ball. Can't really see LOD losing at No Way Out Of Texas now with the stipulation being added. HOLY crap! Owen over Shawn? Love it, Love it, Love it. Can't wait to see the rematch at No Way Out Of Texas for the World Wrestling Federation Championship. A great show overall.
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Post by DTP. on Mar 13, 2011 16:12:31 GMT -5
WWF Shotgun Saturday Night: Saturday 31st January 1998 Davis, California - Recreation Hall
# | Match Result | Time | 0 | Tom Brandi def. Scott Taylor after the full nelson slam. | n/a | 1 | Blackjack Bradshaw def. Michael Modest after the Western Lariat. | 2:49 | 2 | Brian Christopher def. El Pantera after the Tenessee Jam. | 4:34 | 3 | El Torito & Mosaic def. Battallion & Max Mini after the Bullsault by Torito on Mini. | 5:29 | 4 | The Godwinns def. Phil LaFon & Doug Furnas after the Slop Drop on Furnas. | 5:12 |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 14, 2011 20:37:12 GMT -5
WWF RAW is WAR: Monday 2nd February 1998 Indianapolis, Indiana - Market Square Arena
WWF Monday Night RAW - 8:57-10:12 CT | [Q1] We kick off RAW is WAR tonight with Stone Cold Steve Austin arriving at the Market Square Arena with his good friend, "Iron" Mike Tyson, and Austin will sign the contract to face Kane tonight on RAW! The opening video package for Monday Night RAW hits, and we go to the live arena, Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler introducing us to the show.
The theme of Cactus Jack hit and the crowd seemed pleased to see him out here, Cactus Jack climbing into the ring and talking about how The Rock was a man who needed to wake up, man up and give him a chance to ram his teeth down his throat! The crowd cheered as Cactus talked about how he has been on the block many of times, he's been in Japan, Mexico, Europe and of course, the United States, and he's seen grizzled veterans, obnoxious rookies and randomers that believe they can make it with a simple elbow drop. But nothing and none of those compare to The Rock! The crowd cheered as he talks about how he will enter the war on February 15th, the ten man no-holds-barred tag match a lone star, out to destroy the Nation of Domination. But tonight, The Rock needs to get ready, because he's in for a really fun game.
1) Non-Title Match: Cactus Jack def. The Rock by disqualification @ 7:03 - The Rock was an arrogant man going into this match, as the WWF Intercontinental Champion seemed pretty uncertain when it came to stepping in the ring with the maniacal Cactus Jack. These fans wanted to see Mick Foley utterly destroy Rock in the ring tonight, but Rock managed to skip ahead, Rock going for the knee of Cactus and keeping him down off of his feet. Rock continuously kept taunting the fans, perhaps getting a little unfocused, it was really bizarre that none of the Nation had came out with Rock. Rock nailed a running elbow called the 'People's Elbow' by "The King" but Foley just got right back up and started fighting back, the Double Arm DDT prepared but Rock low-blowed him! **
The Rock clotheslined Cactus Jack, the WWF Intercontinental Champion stomping on Jack before Chainsaw Charlie stumbled to the ring with a chainsaw, Rock scared away. The crowd cheered, but Mark Henry arrived in the ring and attacked Charlie from behind with a steel chair! The "World's Strongest Man" nailed a big splash on Charlie, still to come tonight we have Faarooq and Mark Henry taking on the DOA!
[Q2] D-Generation X were shown in the backstage area looking concerned, Triple H telling Shawn Michaels that they need to think optimistic, because there's still potential for the "Heartbreak Kid" to utterly smash Owen Hart's hopes and dreams yet again. They looked behind them, Chyna carrying a barbeque, Shawn and Triple H putting on baker hats, DX up next! | - Commercial Break - | Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler promoted what else was coming up in this hour of Monday Night RAW, the Legion of Doom taking on the Godwinns; the first of two NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament semi-final matches; Flash Funk and TAKA Michinoku against Brian Christopher and Jerry Lawler & DX!
The theme of DX hit, and D-Generation X began to make their way to the ring, Shawn Michaels and Triple H now wearing aprons as well as baker hats, Chyna accompanying with a barbeque in hand. Chyna set it up and D-Generation X talked some innuendo, breaking the boundaries of the 'family hour' in RAW. The WWF European Champion mentioned how they've been finding themselves a little burn lately, and it's understandable from that "Black Hart", Owen. The WWF Champion mentioned how Owen got lucky last week on RAW. He's man enough to admit that, but if anybody can believe that a second-rate brother of a loser, son of a loser, and a nugget like Owen freakin' Hart can win the WWF Championship from a man who has beaten his superior brother, The Undertaker, Ken Shamrock and many, many others in the past three months, then it's absolutely ludicrous. Triple H comments on how everybody wants to be in the D-Generation X, and nobody can, why? Because it's all about them and the New Age Outlaws! The crowd were shocked, and the theme of Road Dogg Jesse James heard. James and Billy Gunn appeared, James talking over his theme song about how they're a member of DX, and if anybody isn't down with that, they've got two words for us, SUCK IT! The fans were stunned by this act on pre-War Zone RAW, Triple H and Shawn Michaels grinning at their addition to DX, the WWF Tag Team Champions!
An advertisement aired, promoting WWF magazine, featuring main editor, Vic Venom.
| - Commercial Break - | [Q3] 2) NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament: Jeff Jarrett def. Barry Windham @ 4:36 - "Double J" was in for a game tonight, as Barry Windham was not about to take anything from Jeff Jarrett and allow him to get away with it. Barry hammered into Jarrett repeatedly, Windham preparing for the Lariat early on just for Jeff Jarrett to take Windham down to the mat and work over his legs, perhaps setting the psychology for a Figure-Four Leglock. Jim Cornette was at ringside, hyping up No Way Out of Texas being highlighted by the debut of the NWA North American Heavyweight Championship and how it will become the most revolutionary in the World Wrestling Federation. Windham went for the Lariat and missed, Jarrett then nailed a variant Russian Legsweep for the win. *3/4
Jeff Jarrett celebrated his win like he had won the Superbowl, "Double J" strutting to the boos of the capacity crowd. Jeff Jarrett was now going to No Way Out of Texas to face either Vader or Marc Mero for the NWA North American Heavyweight Championship.
"Black Hart" was shown in the backstage area, as Michael Cole was standing by, Owen telling Michael that he cannot wait until February 15th. He's been in the wrestling business for ten years, and he has never once been given the respect. He's feuded with his brother and almost defeated him for the WWF Championship, but now he will avenge everything damaged by D-Generation X about the Hart Family. Because he made Shawn Michaels tap out last Monday night, and he will do it again! But this time, he will break his back in two.
| - Commercial Break - | [Q4] 3) TAKA Michinoku and Scorpio def. Jerry Lawler and Brian Christopher @ 5:35 - It was revealed by Mr McMahon last Monday night on RAW is WAR that we would see TAKA Michinoku defend the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship take on Flash Funk and Brian Christopher at No Way Out of Texas. Last week Jerry Lawler took on TAKA Michinoku and defeated him, but after the bell they tried continuing the attack on Michinoku, Flash Funk sporting a new persona making the save. Now known as 'Scorpio', he was here to stand behind Michinoku, and Scorpio was impressive, his high-flying antics taking "The King" right from the apron with a single dropkick. Jerry Lawler attempted the Piledriver and worked over Michinoku with Christopher, but Scorpio made the hot tag and TAKA took out Christopher! Lawler was taken down by a head-plant hurricanrana, Scorpio then nailing the 450 Splash for the win! **1/4
Scorpio celebrated with TAKA Michinoku, Scorpio handing him his WWF Light Heavyweight Championship belt and telling him he was here for this!
In the backstage area we see the "Big Red Machine" as Kane is stood with Paul Bearer, Bearer seemingly motivated Kane going into the contract signing later on tonight. Bearer tells Kane that they will smash the bones of Stone Cold Steve Austin to the point where he is paralyzed and cannot move an inch! Kane nods as Bearer cackles.
The Legion of Doom were shown walking, and Hawk and Animal will be in action next! | - Commercial Break - | [Q5] 4) The Godwinns def. The Legion of Doom @ 2:40 - The Godwinns haven't been seen on RAW is WAR as of late, having been local residents on Shotgun Saturday Night instead, but tonight they took on their old rivals, the Legion of Doom and LOD were in no time for games. Animal and Hawk powered through both of them, Animal with many powerslams and Hawk clotheslining Henry O. Godwinn almost on his head! LOD went for the Doomsday Device on Phineous I. Godwinn in what was virtually a one-sided affair, when Billy Gunn ran to the ring as the official was tied up with Road Dogg Jesse James, Gunn nailing Hawk with a WWF Tag belt! The Slop Drop connected and the Godwinns stole the win! *1/2
The Godwinns celebrated their win as Animal hit the ring, clotheslines to both Phineous I. and Henry O. Godwinn, and Legion of Doom had just been duked in the exact same way that the New Age Outlaws had been duked by LOD last week! The WWF Tag Team Champions smugly backed up the rampway as RAW goes off the air!
| WWF WarZone - 10:12-10:54 CT |
Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler introduce us to the War Zone, as the ring was already set up, two chairs and a table in the ring for the contract signing between Kane and Stone Cold Steve Austin.
Mr McMahon wandered to the ring to loud boos, and he welcomed us to the War Zone and began to talk about how he was looking forward to this great match between Stone Cold Steve Austin and the "Big Red Machine" Kane in two weeks time. He mentions how Austin may have became associated with "Iron" Mike Tyson, and to be totally honest he's not too pleased with that, but it's fine and dandy because if Mike Tyson gets in the way of the "Big Red Machine" Kane at No Way Out of Texas, he will find himself punished against Vince's will. McMahon introduces Kane, and the pyrotechnics went off scaring everybody in the arena, Paul Bearer leading the "Big Red Machine" down the rampway. Bearer thanked McMahon for this amazing opportunity to find Kane a way to rising to the almighty top in the World Wrestling Federation. Vince was then cut off by the arrival of Stone Cold, Steve Austin getting a loud ovation, and an even louder one as Mike Tyson made his way to the ring with him! The two men locked eyes in the ring, Austin looking high up at Kane, Mike in the background. Mike tells Vince that he doesn't exactly know the rules to this Last Man Standing match, and so he wants to find out for everybody. Vince tells Mike the 'backstabber' that it is highly revolved around Mike's profession. Boxing. No disqualification, no count-outs, and your opponent has to remain down and unconscious for ten seconds. Austin tells Vince that this is fine and all, but he'd like to find out what the big deal is with him being the boss and suddenly being too good for commentary. Austin says he loved the days of Vince on commentary, it made him want to tear his own eyes out. Austin tells Kane that he will be knocking Kane out, as many times as he wants to get up again, because the "Texas Rattlesnake" will destroy him! Kane shook his head and grabbed Austin by the throat, Mike then punched Kane in the face! Tyson laid Kane down, Austin and "Iron" Mike standing over Kane to the shock of Paul Bearer! Kane then sat up, and the first ever Last Man Standing match will definitely be interesting!
A preview of what's still to come on this edition of the War Zone is shown, Vader taking on Marc Mero in the other semi-final match of the NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament; plus, the Disciples of the Apocalypse take on two members of the Nation of Domination and Ken Shamrock takes on Triple H in non-title action! | - Commercial Break - | [Q6] Mr McMahon was shown in his office, as he was confronted by The Artist Formerly Known as Goldust wearing a suit. McMahon asks Goldust if he realises that Halloween was four months ago. The Artist tells McMahon to cut the jokes, because Luna Vachon is in a bad way, and he really wants Steve Blackman to suffer. Goldust asks for Blackman to face Kurrgan the Interrogator this Saturday on Shotgun. McMahon says he cannot allow man-on-woman violence, and that's exactly what'll happen this weekend!
5) NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament Match: Vader (w/Sable) def. Marc Mero @ 4:13 - "Marvelous" Marc Mero was not quite expecting to see Sable accompanying Vader to the ring, and this crowd was excited for this one. Vader smashed Mero around, as Jim Cornette joined commentary for this semi-final match. Mero got in some shots, using his boxing skills to hammer Vader as well, stunning the big mastadon to his knees. Mero soon attempted the TKO, but Vader was simply too big for him. Vader delivered several scoop slams and began the Vader Bomb just for Mero to fire back. Sable cheered Vader on and this distracted Mero, Mero grabbed Sable by the hair and Vader delivered a heavy clothesline to get the win! *3/4
Vader celebrated his victory as the crowd cheered, the man they call Vader now going to No Way Out of Texas to face "Double J" Jeff Jarrett in the finals of the NWA North American Heavyweight Championship Tournament for the vacant title. Jim Cornette was happy with the outcome of this tournament, boasting how he was going to officiate this match and make history!
| - Commercial Break - | An advertisement aired, promoting WWF No Way Out of Texas, live on pay-per-view on Sunday 15th February 1998 from Houston, Texas.
The burning Undertaker logo was shown, as rain trickling was heard. A gong caused the logo to fade to black.
We return to the War Zone as Faarooq was in the ring with Mark Henry and Kama Mustafa, Faarooq talking about everybody's assuming dissension in the World Wrestling Federation with the Nation of Domination, but they are merely expanding, and they will knock these Disciples of Apocalypse down one big step tonight.
6) Faarooq and Mark Henry (w/Kama Mustafa) def. 8-Ball and Skull (w/Chainz) by disqualification @ 2:13 - This was intended to be a tag team match with disqualifications active, but Chainz and Kama Mustafa got involved and it seemed like a six man tag team match. Or brawl. Mark Henry was definitely the dominance factor, and the Disciples of the Apocalypse targeted the larger member of the Nation of Domination, as the "World's Strongest Man" had Skull beaten with a bear hug. 8-Ball started to get involved, and the DOA were double-teaming Mark with an outstanding double suplex on Mark. Faarooq got the tag and chaos ensued as Skull and 8-Ball got into a four-man war with Mark Henry and Faarooq. Faarooq nailed 8-Ball with a big Spinebuster, then preparing for the Dominator but Mark Henry delivered a Big Splash on him! Chainz tried to break it up, but instead Chainsaw Charlie ran in dressed as Terry Funk! Funk pounded on Mark causing the disqualification! *1/2
[Q7] Terry Funk refused to let go of Mark Henry as the official dragged him off. Funk continued as Cactus Jack dressed as Mick Foley appeared, trying to pull Funk off as well! D-Lo Brown hit the ring as Kama Mustafa and Faarooq brawled with the Disciples of the Apocalypse! Everything was going down as officials got involved, and imagine the ten-man no-holds barred tag team war in two weeks!
A graphic aired as Jim Ross revealed that he'd received word that next week we will see The Rock defend the WWF Intercontinental Championship against Cactus Jack in a no-disqualification match; Mark Henry faces Chainsaw Charlie in a Street Fight with no interference allowed; Plus the Legion of Doom takes on D-Generation X!
Shawn Michaels was shown with Triple H, the WWF European Champion facing Ken Shamrock in non-title match up next!
| - Commercial Break - | Steve Blackman was caught up by Kevin Kelly as Kelly asked the "Lethal Weapon" what he was going to do this Saturday night when Blackman faces Kurrgan the Interrogator on Shotgun. Blackman tells Kelly that he has a message to The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust; how cowardly can a man get! Blackman tells Goldust to quit hiding behind a big man like Kurrgan, he'll handle this, but he will get his hands on Goldust and not be interrupted by Kurrgan.
7) Non-Title Match: Ken Shamrock def. Triple H (w/Shawn Michaels and Chyna) @ 7:22 - This was a hard-hitting main event as the WWF European Champion found himself in a hard fought battle with the "World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock. Shamrock took Triple H down repeatedly, almost definitely reminding us of how Shamrock almost became WWF Champion against Shawn Michaels last month at In Your House: D-Generation X. Shamrock worked the ankle of Triple H, as well as his previously harmed leg that was in a cast. Triple H used his dirty tactics, and Shawn and Chyna at ringside also got involved. The "Heartbreak Kid" even pounded on Shamrock when he was laid out at ringside and Hunter had the referee's attention. Owen Hart was shown watching from a backstage monitor, as Shamrock soon fought out of an indian deathlock, Shamrock delivering a belly-to-back suplex to Triple H, then one to Shawn Michaels, applying the Ankle Lock to Chyna!? Shawn then delivered the Sweet Chin Music to the side of his skull to boos. **1/2
[OVR] Ken Shamrock was laid out as Shawn Michaels and Triple H stood tall in the ring with Chyna helped up on her now bad ankle. D-Generation X stood over Shamrock before Owen Hart ran to the ring with the Legion of Doom, and in two weeks Owen faces Shawn for the WWF Championship & LOD faces new DX associates, the New Age Outlaws at No Way Out of Texas! Another chaotic end to the War Zone as Owen had Shawn Michaels in the Sharpshooter yet again! |
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Bob Bob Bobelow
Main Eventer
Joined on: Jul 10, 2008 19:32:38 GMT -5
Posts: 2,203
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Post by Bob Bob Bobelow on Mar 15, 2011 11:04:54 GMT -5
After doing a quick scroll through, this show looked to be loaded. A fine opener to kick off the show, which I would think woul get the crowd riled up despite a weak low blow finish. Pretty sure the Outlaws didn’t join DX until after Mania, but having them join now is alright, I suppose. Having all the championships with DX really makes them look like a strong group. I’m really mixed on having a Last Man Standing match between Kane and Austin. If Kane is going to those that, you are going to have to come up with something really strong because Kane was a really dominate force at this point. I like the finals of Vader/Jarrett for the NWA Championship. I can see Jarrett winning it. A fine main event to close out the show. Pretty obvious that your hyping Owen up strong only to have him lose at the pay per view. A fine overall episode.
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Post by DTP. on Mar 16, 2011 16:30:29 GMT -5
THE BRIT REPORT Presented by Mike Potter on Thursday 5th February 1998
-- RAW this week seemed to have an average amount of wrestling and more focus on storyline entertainment. The Brit believes that the strongest piece of wrestling on the show was Ken Shamrock and Triple H's match, but followed by the TAKA Michinoku & Scorpio vs Brian Christopher & Jerry Lawler match. Everything else that happened in the ring was under expectations of ring quality, but the Brit commends the efforts of The Rock in his match with Cactus Jack. However, I don't feel Rock is ready for the big time just yet. The contract signing with Stone Cold & Kane was intriguing, but the no-selling from Kane could be a bad thing as well as the main selling point of their Last Man Standing match at No Way Out of Texas. The multi-man feud with WWF superstars and the Nation of Domination are too 1997 for me to enjoy.
-- The Last Man Standing match is actually not an original idea and not the first ever match of said style. The original match took place at In Your House in December 1996 between the Undertaker & the Executioner (Terry Gordy) with the exact same rules as Mr McMahon revealed on RAW.
-- The WWF really seem to be pushing to build Adam Copeland, Sean Morley and Tiger Ali Singh to the main card especially soon. The trio have been outstanding examples of good talent in WWF's developmental area, and led the way enough to catch management attention.
-- The RAW is WAR episode this week received a 3.5 rating compared to Monday Nitro's 4.9 rating. The ratings for WCW seem to continue to tower over the WWF.
-- All-Japan has a show at the Tokyo Dome on May 1st 1998, and Kenta Kobashi has shown great interest in shortly after competing in the World Wrestling Federation.
-- The current card for No Way Out of Texas on 02/15/98 seems to include: - Owen Hart vs Shawn Michaels for the WWF Championship - Stone Cold vs Kane in a 'Last Man Standing' match - The Nation of Domination vs Ken Shamrock, Chainsaw Charlie, Cactus Jack and the Disciples of the Apocalypse in a no-holds barred ten-man tag team match. - Jeff Jarrett vs Vader for the vacant NWA North American Heavyweight Championship - The New Age Outlaws vs The Legion of Doom in a steel-cage match for the WWF Tag Team Championships; if LOD lose, they must leave the WWF. - TAKA Michinoku vs Flash Funk vs Brian Christopher for the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship
-- In results from RAW is WAR on 02/02/98: - Cactus Jack def. The Rock by DQ; Rock retains the WWF Intercontinental title - Jeff Jarrett def. Barry Windham in an NWA North American Heavyweight title Tournament match - Scorpio & TAKA Michinoku def. Brian Christopher & Jerry Lawler - The Godwinns def. The Legion of Doom - Vader def. Marc Mero in an NWA North American Heavyweight title Tournament match - Faarooq & Mark Henry def. Skull & 8-Ball by DQ - Ken Shamrock def. Triple H by DQ in a non-title match
-- In results from Monday Nitro on 02/02/98: - Juventud Guerrera def. Psychosis - Ultimo Dragon def. Billy Kidman - Chris Jericho def. Super Calo - Booker T def. Steven Regal to retain the WCW World Television title - Konnan def. Hugh Morrus - Scott Hall def. Jim Neidhart - Bill Goldberg def. Mark Starr - Steve McMichael vs Davey Boy Smith; no contest - Raven def. Disco Inferno - The Steiner Brothers def. Kevin Nash & Buff Bagwell - Sting def. Randy Savage
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Post by DTP. on Mar 17, 2011 11:40:53 GMT -5
WWF Shotgun Saturday Night: Saturday 7th February 1998 Indianapolis, Indiana - Market Square Arena
# | Match Result | Time | 0 | Fatu def. Sniper after the Samoan shuffle kick. | n/a | 1 | The Headbangers def. Savio Vega & Jesus Castillo after the Stage Dive to Castillo. | 5:04 | 2 | Blackjack Bradshaw def. Tom Brandi after the Western Lariat | 3:20 | 3 | El Pantera, Scott Taylor & Mosaic def. Jose Estrada, Miguel Perez & El Torito after the Tornado DDT by Taylor on Estrada. | 6:17 | 4 | Kurrgan the Interrogator def. Steve Blackman after the Artist Formerly Known As Goldust distracted Blackman leading to the Paralyzer. | 2:55 |
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