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Post by snabbit888 on Mar 29, 2010 17:23:00 GMT -5
August 6, 1973 - Cobo Arena - Detroit, MI
Blackjack Lanza made Jerry Lawler submit to the Blackjack Claw in 0:14:55. Rating: *** 1/2 [Bobby Heenan interfered against Jerry Lawler.]
For the second show in a row, Jerry "The King" Lawler insisted that he wrestle against Blackjack Lanza, wanting to be the man who ends that undefeated streak. Lawler learned from his mistakes in the first match, and took Lanza closer to the limit than anyone has up to this point. It took Bobby Heenan jumping up on the ring apron after Lawler had hit the Piledriver to buy Lanza the time to recover. Lawler grabbed Heenan by the shirt and was going to deck him, but Lanza spun him around and locked on the Blackjack Claw to get the win. Lanza is still undefeated, but that was as close as it gets.
Gorilla Monsoon and Tony Garea defeated The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) when Monsoon defeated Bockwinkel by countout in 0:04:34. Rating: * 3/4 (Dominic DeNucci no-showed.)
The next match was supposed to be The Cripplers defending the World Tag Team Titles against former champs Dominic DeNucci & Tony Garea, but DeNucci apparently had some travel issues and was unable to make it into Detroit in time for the show. That left Garea without a partner, but he was allowed to pick a new one, but unfortunately, it wouldn't be for the titles anymore. Garea did pick a partner, and it was a great one in GORILLA MONSOON, a former 2-time tag team champion and one of the most feared men in wrestling. Since the titles were no longer on the line, Bobby Heenan made the executive decision that he would lead Ray Stevens & Nick Bockwinkel to the back for a countout loss instead of risking injury in a match they weren't ready for. So Monsoon & Garea get the win. However, the plan looks to have backfired on Heenan, as it has just been announced that on September 14 in Philadelphia, The Cripplers will be defending the straps against Monsoon & Garea!
Baron Von Raschke made Baron Mikel Scicluna submit to the Claw in 0:11:57. Rating: ** 1/2
Baron Von Raschke was forced to dispatch of Baron Mikel Scicluna one more time as Lou Albano continues to refuse to fight him on his own. Seeing how dominant Raschke is, I can't say I blame Captain Lou. For the third time, Scicluna couldn't slow down his former tag team partner, falling to the Claw. Raschke still might not get Albano, but we did find out that if Pedro Morales retains the World Title tonight, he will get him instead for the gold!
Bobby Duncum defeated Jimmy Snuka by disqualification in 0:05:21. Rating: ** 1/2
Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka was far more prepared for Bobby Duncum than he was the first time around, bringing the fight right to Heenan's new charge. Snuka has a lot of pent up anger toward his former manager, and he took it out on Duncum, giving him a receipt from last month by nailing him between the eyes with his own cowbell, resulting in a DQ. Snuka didn't seem much to care though, savoring getting a bit of revenge on Duncum. With the repeated use of the bullrope, Snuka & Duncum have been signed to another match in Philly, a bullrope match! This one should be a barn burner!
Carlos Colon and Ivan Koloff battled to a double countout in 0:12:07. Rating: ** 1/4
Carlos Colon came within an eyelash of winning the World Title in Chicago, and is in the process of trying to obtain a rematch. Lou Albano offered him a shortcut, saying he could get a rematch right away - if he could defeat Ivan Koloff. Problem is, no one has been able to defeat Ivan Koloff, as he may be an unstoppable monster. Colon was up to the challenge though, as he will do anything to get that rematch. Colon took the fight right to Koloff, pushing the Russian Bear further than anyone has to date. In fact, Colon would go down as the first man Koloff hasn't beaten soundly in a match. Colon fought hard and wrestled Koloff to a double countout. Koloff is still undefeated, but he seemed furious that he didn't put Colon away like he has so many before him. Koloff tried to put Colon's lights out post-match, but Colon ducked the Russian Sickle, causing Koloff to connect with the ring post instead and perhaps injure his arm. A rematch will be taking place in Philly, and it will be interesting to see how Koloff's arm injury affects him, if at all.
Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka defeated Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) when Fuji pinned Bruiser after spitting blue mist in his eyes in 0:12:35. Rating: ** 1/2
Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher were in a foul mood tonight, still miffed over losing the World Tag Team Titles back in Chicago. They looked to take that out on mr. Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka, but they got a whole different kind of frustration. Late in the match, Tanaka jumped in the ring to brawl with The Crusher, taking the attention of referee Danny Bartfield with him. With the ref predisposed, Fuji spit blue mist right in Bruiser's eyes! Bruiser was in a ton of pain, and was easy prey to a pinfall from Fuji. Fuji & Tanaka stole a win, but the bigger story is the health of Dick the Bruiser.
Interview: Ernie Ladd demands to be added to the tag team match.
Before our semi-main event which was supposed to be Billy Graham & Spiros Arion taking on Billy Robinson & Don Muraco, The Grand Wizard came out with all of his men, including Ernie Ladd. The Grand Wizard grabbed the mic and demanded that this match become a 6-man tag team match. Robinson & Muraco came out and agreed to the match, and brought out their third, LUKE GRAHAM!
Billy Robinson, Don Muraco and Luke Graham defeated Billy Graham, Ernie Ladd and Spiros Arion when Muraco pinned B. Graham after a powerslam in 0:33:35. Rating: 1/4
The addition of Ernie Ladd & Luke Graham made this a tremendous 6-man tag team match that went over 30 minutes. A lot of personal issues were involved and it led to a lot of hard-hitting intense wrestling. After a very hot match, we had a huge shocker as Don Muraco surprised US champion Billy Graham with a beautiful powerslam and got an upset pinfall victory! Nobody could believe it, but the rookie Muraco just pinned the US champion! As a result, Muraco has been granted the opportunity of a lifetime as he will challenge Billy Graham for the US Title in Philadelphia!
Pedro Morales pinned The Sheik after a crucifix in 0:04:49. Rating: 1/2* (Pedro Morales retained the GCW World Title.)
World champion Pedro Morales & local Detroit legend The Sheik have a storied history. It was The Sheik who Morales defeated to win his first singles title back in 1969. There was a lot at stake here though as The Sheik was trying to wrestle the World Title away from the most hated man in wrestling. Sheik came out fast and with much brutality, looking to put Morales away early. Sheik made one mistake though and left himself open to a crucifix from the champion, which was just enough to get the pinfall. The Sheik may have lost, but he sent the fans home happy by busting Morales open with his patented spike.
Card rating: ** 1/4
Match observations:
The Spectrum in Philadelphia better get themselves ready, because on September 14, GCW is coming back!
WORLD TITLE - Pedro Morales (c) vs. Baron Von Raschke UNITED STATES TITLE - Billy Graham (c) vs. Don Muraco WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES - The Cripplers (c) vs. Tony Garea/Gorilla Monsoon BULLROPE MATCH - Jimmy Snuka vs. Bobby Duncum Dick the Bruiser/The Crusher vs. Mr. Fuji/Toru Tanaka Carlos Colon vs. Ivan Koloff Billy Robinson vs. Ernie Ladd And also, the debut of a new tag team, Mr. Wrestling I & Mr. Wrestling II!
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Post by mamushi on Mar 29, 2010 19:08:24 GMT -5
Looking forward to the debut of the Mr. Wrestlings.
AND A BULLROPE MATCH CONSARNIT! *prospector dance*
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Post by rey619 on Mar 30, 2010 7:15:58 GMT -5
I liked the fact that Luke Graham made his return. Without Sammartino, I felt you didn't have a top babyface. I can see you're grooming Carlos Colon to become it, but Graham can certainly fit the bill
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Post by snabbit888 on Mar 30, 2010 15:06:48 GMT -5
September 14, 1973 - The Spectrum - Philadelphia, PA
Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II defeated Baron Mikel Scicluna and Spiros Arion when I defeated Arion when Arion submitted in an abdominal stretch in 0:10:23. Rating: ***
To kick off our show in Philly, we were excited to see the debut of a team that comes with a lot of fanfare, the masked duo of Mr. Wrestling I & Mr. Wrestling II, taking on the makeshift team of Baron Mikel Scicluna & Spiros Arion. Scicluna & Arion did not mesh all that well at all, which is especially unhelpful when you saw how much of a well-oiled machine I & II were. Not a lot of douby in the result of this one - a successful debut for Mr. Wrestling I & II.
Billy Graham defeated Don Muraco when Don Muraco passed out in the Bearhug in 0:07:42. Rating: ** 1/2 (Billy Graham retained the GCW United States Title.) [The Grand Wizard interfered against Don Muraco.]
This was the chance of a lifetime for young Don Muraco, who shocked everyone by getting a pinfall over the reigning uS champion Billy Graham in a 6-man tag team match in Detroit. The Superstar had to put the gold on the line against Muraco, and to say that Muraco was jazzed would be a vast understatement. Everyone was strongly behind Muraco, wanting to see a huge upset take place. We thought we had it when Muraco was able to hit the Flying Crossbody, but Superstar Graham was too close to the ropes and grabbed them before the 3. Muraco made a rookie mistake and argued with the referee, letting Graham recover. Graham caught Muraco with a thumb to the eye before locking on the Bearhug and squeezing the life out of his challenger. Muraco held on, but eventually passed out from the pain. A valiant effort, but Muraco falls just short in his bid to win the US Title.
Blackjack Lanza defeated Dominic DeNucci when Dominic DeNucci passed out in the Blackjack Claw in 0:10:10. Rating: ** 3/4
Blackjack Lanza's undefeated path of destruction continued tonight with a win via the Blackjack Claw over Dominic DeNucci.
Gorilla Monsoon and Tony Garea defeated The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) when Garea defeated R. Stevens by disqualification in 0:04:18. Rating: ** 1/4 (The Cripplers retained the GCW World Tag Team Titles.) [Bobby Heenan interfered against Tony Garea.]
Dominic DeNucci's normal tag team partner Tony Garea was hoping to have a little more success than DeNucci had, teaming with Gorilla Monsoon to challenge The Cripplers for the World Tag Team Titles. Ray Stevens & Nick Bockwinkel are tough guys, but they don't always show it as their manager Bobby Heenan appreciates the money in having the World Tag Team champions in his stable. Heenan showed that again here tonight, as instead of having Stevens & Bockwinkel go all out to win the match, he got them disqualified on purpose so they retained the championships. Not the most noble way to do so, but at the end of the day, the Cripplers are still the champs. Monsoon & Garea are going to get one more shot at the gold on October 3 at Madison Square Garden, and the kicker is, Bobby Heenan will not be allowed at ringside!
Bullrope Match: Bobby Duncum defeated Jimmy Snuka in 0:07:21. Rating: ***
Jimmy Snuka wasn't about to let Bobby Duncum come into GCW and walk all over him, but you have to question whether or not the Superfly dove into the deep end too soon by agreeing to wrestle Duncum in a Bullrope match, a match Duncum is clearly quite skilled at. Snuka did his best, but Duncum knew his way around this match, and it ultimately led to a victory for Heenan's charge. It looks like it's back to the drawing board for Jimmy Snuka.
Handicap-Match: Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka defeated The Crusher when Fuji pinned Crusher with the Thrust Kick in 0:12:40. Rating: *** 1/4
Our next match was scheduled to be a tag team encounter, but Dick the Bruiser is still having difficulty with his vision after Mr. Fuji spit blue mist into his eyes in Detroit, so The Crusher agreed to wrestle a handicap match against Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka instead. The Crusher fought like the tough guy that he is, but Fuji & Tanaka are one of the best teams in the world - any one man is not going to stand up to them. Fuji would hit the Thrust Kick to get the pin. Afterwards, Fuji & Tanaka looked to do to Crusher what they did to Bruiser, Tanaka holding Crusher open for Fuji to spew the mist into his eyes, but DICK THE BRUISER ran down with his chain in hand to chase the rulebreakers from the ring. If Bruiser is cleared to wrestle, the tag team match we should have had tonight will take place at Madison Square Garden!
Billy Robinson pinned Ernie Ladd with the Double-Arm Suplex in 0:12:30. Billy Robinson suffered a back injury. He will be out for approximately 4 months. Rating: *** [The Grand Wizard interfered against Billy Robinson.]
Ernie Ladd's confidence seems to have been rocked ever since Luke Graham came back and put him in his place, as he didn't seem like the same arrogant jerk we have grown accustomed to during this match against Billy Robinson. Ladd had his power offense working earlier, but once Robinson grounded him and worked the left leg of the much larger Ladd, it was all just a matter of time before Robinson hit the Double-Arm Suplex to put another one in the win column. Unfortunately for Robinson, during the match, he seemed to severely tweak his back, and the Double-Arm Suplex may have been a mistake as it aggravated it even more. Robinson may have a slipped disk in his back and will need a few weeks to recover as a safety precaution.
Ivan Koloff pinned Carlos Colon with the Russian Sickle in 0:13:08. Rating: *** 1/4
Carlos Colon took Ivan Koloff further than any competitor has been able to do thus far when he wrestled him to a double countout in Detroit. Not only that, but the Russian Bear injured his arm in the post-match fight when he accidentally hit the Russian Sickle on a steel ringpost. Colon worked that injured arm throughout this match, and he looked like he was going to be the one to finally end this undefeated streak. It even looked like Koloff was going to submit a couple of times, but then the Russian Bear got angry. Once he was riled up, Colon couldn't slow him down and got a face full of the Russian Sickle for the 1-2-3. A valiant showing by Colon in a losing effort.
Baron Von Raschke defeated Pedro Morales by disqualification in 0:14:25. Rating: ** 1/2 (Pedro Morales retained the GCW World Title.) [Lou Albano interfered against Baron Von Raschke.]
The way that Baron Von Raschke sees it, if he can't get his hands on Lou Albano, the next best way to hurt him would be to take the World Title from his top charge Pedro Morales. Morales has been on the receiving of quite a few beatings in recent months, but he has managed to escape with the World Title in tow every time. Thanks to Captain Lou, he would do the same once again. Neither man could get a clear advantage throughout this match as both were a little one-dimensional in trying to set their opponent up for their respective submission finishers. Raschke would be the one to finally lock his on, getting the Claw on Morales deep. Morales was moments away from being unconscious when Albano jumped in the ring and blasted Raschke in the back with his cane! The blow itself didn't do much, but it did cause the DQ and thus, Morales retains the World Title.
Interview: Baron Von Raschke wants to put his career on the line against Lou Albano.
Having being screwed out of the World Title, just the next in a long line of transgressions against him by Lou Albano, Baron Von Raschke has had enough. As Morales & Albano were heading to the back with the World Title, Raschke grabbed a microphone. Maybe it was just the heat of the moment, but Raschke challenged Albano to a match for our next show at MSG. Knowing that Albano would never accept the match under normal circumstances, Raschke said that to sweeten the deal, he would put his career on the line in the match! If Albano could somehow defeat Raschke, Raschke would leave GCW forever. After consulting with Morales, Albano agreed to the match!
Card rating: ***
Match observations:
Back to our home on October 3, MADISON SQUARE GARDEN! The landscape of GCW could very well change after this huge event!
WORLD TITLE - Pedro Morales (c) vs. Carlos Colon WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES - The Cripplers (c) vs. Gorilla Monsoon/Tony Garea RASCHKE'S CAREER ON THE LINE - Baron Von Raschke vs. Lou Albano Dick the Bruiser/The Crusher vs. Mr. Fuji/Toru Tanaka
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 1, 2010 22:29:37 GMT -5
October 3, 1973 - Madison Square Garden - New York, NY
Don Muraco pinned Baron Mikel Scicluna with the Flying Crossbody in 0:05:50. Rating: ** 1/4 [Lou Albano interfered against Don Muraco.]
Don Muraco didn't win the US Title at our last show, but he has shown that he has the skills to compete with the big boys. Muraco got back on the winning track by hitting the Flying Crossbody on veteran Baron Mikel Scicluna.
Ernie Ladd defeated Dominic DeNucci by countout in 0:02:58. Rating: ** 1/4
Ernie Ladd had a fire lit under him tonight, absolutely blitzing Dominic DeNucci from the opening bell en route to hitting him with the Thumb to the Throat on the concrete floor, leaving DeNucci unable to answer the count and eat a countout loss.
Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II defeated The Heenan Family (Blackjack Lanza and Bobby Duncum) when Wrestling II pinned Duncum with the Million Dollar Kneelift in 0:21:58. Rating: 1/4 [Bobby Heenan interfered against Mr. Wrestling I.] [Bobby Heenan interfered against Mr. Wrestling II.]
Mr. Wrestling I & II have already garnered quite a buzz in the wrestling world, and that has followed them to Global Championship Wrestling. They showed the type of skills they are bringing to the table here in their MSG debut, taking on Blackjack Lanza & Bobby Duncum of the Heenan Family. This was a tremendous athletic contest, a match that had the crowd on its feet by the end. For over 20 minutes, the result of this one was up in the air as the two teams jockeyed for position. Wrestling I & II are of course masked wrestlers, and that would make all the difference in the finish. Wrestling I was in a lot of trouble, but while the referee was distracted keeping Blackjack Lanza out of the ring, Wrestling I & II made a switch, which allowed Mr. Wrestling II to hit what he calls his Million Dollar Kneelift on Duncum to get the 1-2-3.
Match with Managers Banned From Ringside: The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) defeated Gorilla Monsoon and Tony Garea when R. Stevens pinned Garea after a piledriver in 0:10:15. Rating: ** 3/4 (The Cripplers retained the GCW World Tag Team Titles.)
This had all the makings to be a horrible night for Bobby Heenan. Not only was he outsmarted by Mr. Wrestling I & II in the previous match, but he was also banned from ringside as The Cripplers defended the World Tag Team Titles against Gorilla Monsoon & Tony Garea. Ray Stevens & Nick Bockwinkel have started calling themselves the team of the 70s, and until somebody proves them wrong, it's hard to argue with them. Stevens & Bockwinkel wisely prevented Monsoon from getting into the ring for the majority of this match, methodically wearing Garea down before Stevens dropped him with a piledriver to retain the gold.
Ivan Koloff pinned Jimmy Snuka with the Russian Sickle in 0:07:20. Rating: ** 1/2
Ivan Koloff cannot be stopped! Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka made his attempt to be the first man to put a mark in the loss column for the Russian Bear, but once again, Koloff picked Snuka apart before nearly taking his head off with the Russian Sickle.
Interview: Ivan Koloff makes a surprising challenge.
After the match, Ivan Koloff unexpectedly grabbed the microphone while his manager Captain Lou Albano was trying to lead him to the back. Koloff made mention of putting yet another unfortunate competitor down and out, and said that it was time for the Championship Committee to make the right call and grant him a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. That clearly surprised Albano, as the reigning champion is another one of his charges, Pedro Morales. Albano tried to calm Koloff down, saying they would talk about it in the back, but Koloff reaffirmed his stance about wanting a World Title shot. This brought out PEDRO MORALES himself, and he did not look happy, getting right into Koloff's face! The fans in the Garden wanted to see these two go at it, but fortunately for Albano, cooler heads prevailed and he got his two men to shake hands and head to the back peacefully.
Luke Graham pinned Spiros Arion with the Thumb to the Throat in 0:04:17. Rating: *** [The Grand Wizard interfered against Luke Graham.]
Luke Graham is wanting to get back in title contention after a long layoff this year due to injuries, and he keeps making big strides to do so. Tonight's stride was the decimation of Spiros Arion. Luke Graham is starting to look a lot like the Luke Graham of old who terrorized GCW in the late 60s. Now that he's healthy, I'd hate to be anyone who has to stand across the ring from Crazy Luke.
Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) defeated Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka when Crusher defeated Fuji by disqualification in 0:14:00. Rating: ** 1/2 [Dick Murdoch and Dusty Rhodes interfered against Dick the Bruiser.] [Dusty Rhodes interfered against The Crusher.]
What an absolute shocking ending to this grudge match between Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher and Mr. Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka. The Bruiser was fortunate not to have any lasting damage to his eyes after Fuji spewed blue mist into them a couple of months back, but that didn't make him any less desiring of ripping Fuji's head off. Bruiser & Crusher aren't pretty when they do it, but they are the best brawlers in all of wrestling if you want my humble opinion. After a brutal match, it looked like Bruiser & Crusher were about to finish Fuji & Tanaka off, when two large men jumped in the ring and smashed Bruiser & Crusher in the back with chairs! These two individuals unleashed hell on Bruiser & Crusher, leaving both men a bloodied mess in the middle of the ring, completely motionless. We found out these two assailants were DUSTY RHODES & DICK MURDOCH, collectively known as The Texas Outlaws. These young bulls were looking to make a statement, and beating Bruiser & Crusher down worse than anyone ever has is a helluva way to do so!
Billy Graham defeated Jerry Lawler when Jerry Lawler passed out in the Bearhug in 0:15:16. Rating: *** 3/4 (Billy Graham retained the GCW United States Title.) [The Grand Wizard interfered against Jerry Lawler.]
"Superstar" Billy Graham has been the US champion for almost all of 1973, turning back opponent after opponent as he continues to improve every match he wrestles. He had to defend the title against another up-and-coming superstar, Jerry "The King" Lawler, who would love to earn his first championship in Madison Square Garden. As we have seen time and time again, Lawler fought his heart out, but the brute strength of Graham was too much as he knocked Lawler out by throwing him into the ringpost before putting him away officially with the Bearhug. Billy Graham refused to release the hold until his brother LUKE GRAHAM walked out. Billy wanted no part of his older brother, releasing the hold and leaving the ring at the request of manager The Grand Wizard before they came to blows.
[BARON VON RASCHKE'S CAREER ON THE LINE]: Baron Von Raschke made Lou Albano submit to the Claw in 0:07:13. Rating: * 1/2
Baron Von Raschke has finally got the monkey off his back that is Captain Lou Albano once and for all! Raschke was so desperate to get his hands on Albano that he put his career on the line in a match against Albano. Now on paper, this match was a no-brainer - Raschke should have killed Albano. But Albano is as crafty as they come, and he had a plan. Unfortunately for him, that plan was Baron Mikel Scicluna, who as of late has been hapless and hopeless. After referee Terry Taranova had been knocked down and was out of it, Albano called Scicluna in the ring who had a roll of quarters in his hand. Scicluna went to nail Raschke, but Raschke moved and Scicluna cleaned Albano's clock instead! Raschke threw Scicluna out of the ring, and put the Claw on Albano to a huge ovation! Albano wasted no time in submitting, giving this win to Raschke and preserving his career.
Raschke's celebration was shortlived though as out of nowhere, BLACKJACK LANZA put Raschke in the Blackjack Claw! It took several officials to finally pry Lanza off of Raschke, but the damage had been done. The question still remains though - what motivated Lanza to attack Raschke like that?
Pedro Morales pinned Carlos Colon after a sunset flip in 0:19:34. Rating: *** 3/4 (Pedro Morales retained the GCW World Title.) [Lou Albano interfered against Carlos Colon.]
Our main event was for the World Title, and it was a rematch of the fantastic match that we saw at the Rumble at Wrigley pitting champion Pedro Morales against challenger Carlos Colon. Colon got himself disqualified in the last match when he lost his cool, so he knew he had to keep himself under control if he wanted to pry the World Title away from the most hated man in wrestling. What we got was a second fantastic match between the two native Puerto Ricans, dazzling the fans at MSG who strongly were hoping to see a brand new World champion crowned. Colon came close to doing so on several occasions, but Morales escaped again, catching Colon in a sunset flip and putting his feet on the middle ropes for extra leverage and ultimately, a 3 count.
Morales didn't get to gloat for long as JOHNNY VALENTINE ran out from the crowd and tackled Morales, unloading on him with punches before officials realized what was going on and split them up. Valentine has been out for months after suffering a heart attack, but he is back, and he wants his hands on the man who has been taking credit for putting him on the shelf, the World champion!
Card rating: ***
Match observations:
The weather is starting to cool down, but the action in GCW continues to heat up! Our next stop will be on November 1, as GCW invades Lowell, MA!
WORLD TITLE - Pedro Morales (c) vs. Johnny Valentine Dick the Bruiser/The Crusher vs. The Texas Outlaws Mr. Wrestling I & II vs. Mr. Fuji & Toru Tanaka In addition… Blackjack Lanza will explain why he assaulted Baron Von Raschke!
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 1, 2010 22:31:25 GMT -5
November 1, 1973 - Memorial Auditorium - Lowell, MA
The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) defeated Dominic DeNucci and Tony Garea when Bockwinkel pinned DeNucci with the Piledriver in 0:14:27. Rating: *** 1/4
The show tonight kicked off what should have been a World Tag Team Title match a couple months ago with The Cripplers taking on Dominic DeNucci & Tony Garea, but DeNucci & Garea were not given the title shot based on DeNucci's no-showing a title match a few months ago. They could get that title shot back if they could pull out a win over the reigning champions. DeNucci & Garea fought hard, but couldn't overcome the champs here in Lowell.
Carlos Colon made Spiros Arion submit to the Figure-Four Leglock in 0:10:52. Spiros Arion suffered a neck injury. He will be out for approximately 2 months. Rating: *** 1/4
Sometimes when it rains, it pours. Well it has been pouring on Spiros Arion for about a year now. Not only did Arion lose another match here, falling to Carlos Colon and his Figure-Four Leglock, but during the match, Arion injured his neck. It isn't a super serious injury, but he will need to take off the rest of 1973 in order to heel up his wounds. The Grand Wizard continues to be disappointed in Arion.
Ivan Koloff pinned Don Muraco with the Russian Sickle in 0:06:22. Rating: ** 3/4 [Lou Albano interfered against Don Muraco.]
Another show, another dominant win for Ivan Koloff. Tonight's victim? Don Muraco. Lou Albano was able to make cooler heads prevail last month when Koloff said he wanted a World Title shot, but with every win, one has to wonder - how long will Koloff have to wait before he gets the title shot he feels he so richly deserves?
Interview: Blackjack Lanza explains why he attacked Baron Von Raschke.
Blackjack Lanza and manager Bobby Heenan were out for an interview next, where Lanza explained why he attacked Baron Von Raschke in the Garden on October 3. Lanza said it was simple - Raschke stole his move. Lanza said he is the Master of the Blackjack Claw, saying that Raschke's Claw finisher was a cheap imitation. Lanza finished by saying that if Raschke knew what was good for him, he would stop using the Claw immediately before he got hurt even worse.
Jerry Lawler pinned Ernie Ladd after a small package in 0:04:40. Rating: ***
Jerry Lawler's win-loss record isn't going to blow anyone away, but as a young competitor, he is learning every single time he wrestles a match. One man he has had an impeccable record against is Ernie Ladd, and that good fortune continued in the Memorial Auditorium thanks to a small package. Ernie Ladd is definitely suffering from a huge confidence problem, which is ironic given Ladd's reputation over the last decade or so. It would be funny if it wasn't so sad.
Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka defeated Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II when Fuji pinned I after a backslide in 0:10:21. Rating: ** 3/4
Mr. Wrestling I & II have come into GCW a complete house of fire, but they learned the hard way tonight that there are some teams that will do anything to pick up a win. That team was Mr. Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka, a team that has found a plethora of success using the most underhanded tactics in wrestling. That trend continued in Lowell as Fuji & Tanaka gave I & II their first loss in a GCW ring after Fuji caught Mr. Wrestling I with a backslide, propped his feet up on the ropes for extra leverage to get a tainted victory. GCW officials have reviewed this match, and have come to the following decision: on November 29 in Baltimore, these two teams will meet in a rematch, the winners earning a World Tag Team Title shot at the year end show at MSG on December 25, Christmas afternoon!
Jimmy Snuka pinned Baron Mikel Scicluna after a flying headbutt in 0:05:21. Rating: ** 1/2
Captain Lou Albano was already not too pleased with Baron Mikel Scicluna, blaming him Baron Von Raschke still being around. Albano told Scicluna he better defeat Jimmy Snuka in this match or there would be hell to pay. Well, Scicluna did not win, falling to a picture perfect flying headbutt from the Superfly that would have put just about anybody down and out. After the match, Albano let loose on Scicluna, berating him and even going as far as slapping the royal from Malta right across the face! That didn't sit well with Scicluna, who pulled the roll of coins out of his trunks and knocked Albano out cold! It looks like Albano's managerial services will no longer be necessary.
Bobby Duncum pinned Gorilla Monsoon after a flying bodypress in 0:06:07. Rating: ** 3/4
While Lou Albano is having all kinds of trouble with his charges, one man who isn't is Bobby Heenan. The Heenan Family is firing on all cylinders, including the newest member of the Family, Bobby Duncum. Duncum had his hands full with veteran Gorilla Monsoon, no easy task for anybody. Duncum showed that not only can he wrestle a power game, but he can go to the air when necessary, taking Monsoon off-guard with a flying bodypress to get the 3 count.
The Texas Outlaws (Dusty Rhodes and Dick Murdoch) and Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) battled to a double countout in 0:13:09. Rating: * 1/4
Dusty Rhodes & "Dirty" Dick Murdoch shocked everyone with the way they debuted, attacking Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher and completely wiping them out. The Texas Outlaws were looking to make an impact, and they sure did. Problem is though, now they've made Bruiser & Crusher angry, something that no one wants to do. Rhodes & Murdoch looked overwhelmed when the match actually started, the reality of what they have gotten themselves into all too clear. The Texas Outlaws have a lot of raw talent though and showed that despite their lack of experience, they sure do know how to fight, leading to a double countout with Bruiser & Crusher when the fight spilled to the floor and all the way to the locker room. Nothing was solved here, but that may change in Baltimore when Dick the Bruiser meets Dusty Rhodes and The Crusher meets Dick Murdoch in singles matches.
Interview: Luke Graham wants a shot at his younger brother and the United States Title.
Before our main event, LUKE GRAHAM came out to speak to the fans in Lowell. Graham said that after taking some time off this year, he is as healthy as he has ever been, and he is ready to once again be the most dominant man in all of professional wrestling. Graham continued that no one could slow him down, and issued a challenge to his own brother, BILLY GRAHAM, and he wanted it to be for the United States Title! Instead of Superstar Billy, Luke was greeted by THE GRAND WIZARD, Billy's manager. The Grand Wizard told Luke that he can't just demand a title shot whenever he wanted, especially against the best wrestler in the world today. Luke smirked at this, mentioning that he taught Billy everything the Superstar knows, but added he didn't teach him everything Luke knows. Luke said he would prove to The Grand Wizard, Billy Graham, and everyone else he should get the next shot at the gold. The Grand Wizard said that was good, as in Baltimore, he'd have to get through ERNIE LADD before they would even consider giving Luke a title shot. Luke agreed to the match, and it will take place on November 29.
Pedro Morales pinned Johnny Valentine after a back suplex in 0:12:35. Rating: ** 1/2 (Pedro Morales retained the GCW World Title.)
The mere fact that Johnny Valentine was even back in a wrestling ring was a small miracle, considering it was only 7 months ago that the man suffered a heart attack. It is downright ridiculous that the man was back and wrestling in the main event for the World Title against his old rival, Pedro Morales. Morales has taken credit for giving Valentine that heart attack, and even if that's true or not, Valentine is a man of pride and isn't going to let any man talk down to him. Valentine worked really hard to get himself back into shape, and against all odds, is back in GCW. Valentine did have some ring rust, that is true, but his immense hatred for Morales helped propel him to do things he may not have been able to do otherwise. However, Valentine still has a way to go before he is 100% healthy, and he fell to Morales and a big back suplex. Pedro Morales retains the World Heavyweight Title.
Before Morales got back to the locker room, the tough Valentine grabbed the microphone and declared he knew he could beat Morales, but he wants to hurt him as well. Valentine wants one more shot at Morales… in A STEEL CAGE MATCH! Morales looked nervous, but his manager Lou Albano not being with him thanks to being knocked unconscious earlier, Morales may have let his ego get the better of him as he agreed to the match!
Card rating: ** 1/2
Match observations:
The Civic Center in Baltimore is our next stop in 1973, our last show before the Madison Square Garden year end event! Mark your calendars, Baltimore area, for November 29!
WORLD TITLE CAGE MATCH - Pedro Morales (c) vs. Johnny Valentine #1 CONTENDERS MATCH - Mr. Wrestling I/Mr. Wrestling II vs. Mr. Fuji/Toru Tanaka Luke Graham vs. Ernie Ladd Dick the Bruiser vs. Dusty Rhodes The Crusher vs. Dick Murdoch Baron Mikel Scicluna vs. Ivan Koloff Don Muraco vs. Blackjack Lanza
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 1, 2010 22:32:42 GMT -5
November 29, 1973 - Civic Center - Baltimore, MD
Baron Von Raschke pinned Johnny Rodz after a diving shoulderblock in 0:10:00. Rating: ** 1/2
The opening match featured the debut of "The Unpredictable" Johnny Rodz. Unfortunately for him, that debut was against Baron Von Raschke in a foul mood. Rodz showed a little fire, but he ended up being little more than a punching bag for Raschke who takes the win.
Dick Murdoch defeated The Crusher by countout in 0:06:43. Rating: * 1/2
The Texas Outlaws have grabbed the bull by the horns, and they were looking tonight to show Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher what they had. There were two singles matches signed, the first of which being The Crusher taking on "Dirty" Dick Murdoch. Murdoch may not have the same experience, but he is under Crusher's skin and he used that to set him up. The fight had spilled to the outside and the two were brawling to a near double countout. At the last second, Murdoch ducked a swinging punch and shoved Crusher face first into the ringpost. Murdoch got back into the ring before the count to steal a victory.
Ivan Koloff pinned Baron Mikel Scicluna with the Russian Sickle in 0:09:34. Rating: ** 1/4 [Lou Albano interfered against Baron Mikel Scicluna.]
Baron Mikel Scicluna has broken free from Captain Lou Albano and has branched out on his own, and is looking to make an impact. Unfortunately, the first impact he got to make was in the canvas after he fought Albano's monster, Ivan Koloff. Scicluna was fighting motivated, but like so many have before, the Russian Bear put Scicluna down and out. Albano berated Scicluna after the match, grabbing the microphone and telling Scicluna he is still a loser, and to prove it, he will beat Scicluna himself at MSG on Christmas day!
Blackjack Lanza defeated Don Muraco by disqualification in 0:04:06. Rating: * 1/2 [Baron Von Raschke interfered against Blackjack Lanza.]
Blackjack Lanza said he wanted Baorn Von Raschke. Well, by golly, he's got him! Lanza was in a match with Don Muraco, but the match itself didn't last long before RASCHKE ran out and attacked Lanza, leading to a disqualification. This was a huge receipt for Lanza's unprovoked attack on Raschke a couple of months ago. Raschke tried to lock his Claw on, but Lanza rolled out of the ring and got to higher ground. These two badly want to tear each other apart, and they will get their chance at MSG. To make it even more interesting, they have both agreed that the only way the match can end is with the Claw finisher! We will get to see once and for all who has the best Claw in the business.
Ernie Ladd pinned Luke Graham with the Thumb to the Throat in 0:07:57. Rating: *** 1/4 [The Grand Wizard and Billy Graham interfered against Luke Graham.]
For our next match, US champion Billy Graham & his manager The Grand Wizard agreed that if Luke Graham could defeat Ernie Ladd, he would get a title opportunity at the year end show. Luke Graham was more than willing to oblige, especially having another chance to beat the tar out of Ernie Ladd. Luke & Ladd had themselves a nice power brawl, but ultimately it wouldn't be a clean decision for either man. BILLY GRAHAM got involved, nailing Luke Graham in the head with the US Title while referee Jack Davis was checking on Ladd who had been inadvertently poked in the eye. Ladd followed with the Thumb to the Throat and stole a victory. Not only did Luke get cheated out of a win, but it looks like he's also been cheated out of a US Title shot.
Dusty Rhodes pinned Dick the Bruiser with the Bionic Elbowdrop in 0:03:31. Rating: * 1/4
Dick Murdoch stole a victory from The Crusher earlier, so Dick the Bruiser wasn't going to fall in the same way that his partner did in his match against Dusty Rhodes. Bruiser wouldn't let Rhodes throw him to the outside, defending against a potential countout. Instead, Rhodes set Bruiser up by having a loaded elbow pad, hitting the Bionic Elbowdrop on Bruiser with a steel plate in the pad. This knocked Bruiser clean out and made the Texas Outlaws 2-0 for the evening.
Number-One-Contenders-Match: Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II defeated Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka when Wrestling II pinned Tanaka with the Million Dollar Kneelift in 0:23:49. Rating:
This match was exactly what tag team wrestling should be all about. Two top teir teams putting it all on the line for an opportunity to wrestle for the World Tag Team Titles. Mr. Wrestling I & II lost their first match in a GCW ring under nefarious circumstances to Mr. Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka back in Lowell, but the rematch would determine who would face The Cripplers for the World Tag Team Titles. There weren't any bells or whistles in this one - just a straight up wrestling match that did not disappoint. In the end, I & II cut off Fuji & Tanaka before they could do any of their patented cheating, Mr. Wrestling II plastered Tanaka with the Million Dollar Kneelift, and earned he and his partner a tag title shot in the Garden.
20-Man Battle Royal for $5,000: Luke Graham won a 20-man Battle Royal: x Ernie Ladd threw out Lawler in 0:02:53 x DeNucci threw out Bockwinkel in 0:04:26 x Duncum threw out Garea after a snap suplex in 0:04:57 x Scicluna threw out Murdoch after a hiptoss in 0:05:05 x Scicluna threw out Duncum in 0:06:11 x Rodz threw out Raschke in 0:08:33 x L. Graham threw out R. Stevens in 0:08:57 x Ernie Ladd threw out Scicluna after a back suplex in 0:10:36 x Bruiser threw out Lanza in 0:10:50 x J. Snuka threw out Rodz in 0:11:33 x Dusty Rhodes threw out Crusher in 0:14:25 x Bruiser threw out Dusty Rhodes after a back suplex in 0:15:54 x Muraco threw out Ernie Ladd in 0:17:12 x Bruiser threw out DeNucci after an airplane spin in 0:19:12 x Monsoon threw out Bruiser in 0:20:28 x L. Graham threw out J. Snuka in 0:20:58 x Monsoon threw out C. Colon in 0:22:44 x L. Graham threw out Muraco in 0:22:51 x L. Graham threw out Monsoon after a boot choke in 0:23:36 Rating:
Before our main event, we had a special treat as we had a 20-man over-the-top-rope battle royal where the winner would receive a $5,000 cash prize. Though he didn't have the best result earlier in the night, Luke Graham ended his night on a good note, outlasting 19 other wrestlers to win the battle royal and take home the $5,000 cash prize.
Cage Match: Pedro Morales defeated Johnny Valentine by escaping the cage in 0:18:50. Rating: *** (Pedro Morales retained the GCW World Title.) [Lou Albano interfered against Johnny Valentine.]
Johnny Valentine had his ultimate chance at revenge against World champion Pedro Morales, as not only did he have the chance to become the World Heavyweight champion, but he also would get to do so inside the confines of a 15-foot high steel cage. As you would expect from two hard-nosed wrestlers who are engaged in a blood feud like this, this was absolutely brutal. Whoever won this match wasn't going to look like a winner when it was over - both men had the crimson mask by matches end. Valentine is one of the stiffest men in all of wrestling, even after his heart attack, and he laid them in against Morales. It would take Captain Lou Albano slamming the cage door in Valentine's face as the only thing that saved Morales' title reign, but when it was all said and done, Pedro Morales was still the World champion.
Interview: Ivan Koloff is named the #1 contender.
As Pedro Morales was being handed his World Title, IVAN KOLOFF, another of Lou Albano's charges, came out to tell everyone that he had officially been named the #1 contender and would be getting the shot at the World Title on Christmas night! Morales was outraged, but the man who looked most flustered by it was Lou Albano. His only two charges currently under contract are going to do battle at Madison Square Garden! The argument got heated, but Albano was just barely able to keep these two separated. Will Albano find a way to keep this match from happening? We'll find out on Christmas day!
Card rating: ***
Match observations:
The year end show in Madison Square Garden is always one of the most anticipated shows of the year, and this year will be no exception as it will take place on Christmas Day!
WORLD TITLE - Pedro Morales (c) vs. Ivan Koloff UNITED STATES TITLE - Billy Graham (c) vs. Jerry Lawler WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES - The Cripplers (c) vs. Mr. Wrestling I/Mr. Wrestling II TEXAS DEATH MATCH - Dick the Bruiser/The Crusher vs. The Texas Outlaws MATCH MUST END W/ THE CLAW - Baron Von Raschke vs. Blackjack Lanza Baron Mikel Scicluna vs. Lou Albano Also, making his first appearance since a career-ending back injury, a special award will be presented to wrestling legend, BOBO BRAZIL!
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Post by LillaThrilla on Apr 1, 2010 22:59:53 GMT -5
Wrestling I & II made a switch, which allowed Mr. Wrestling II to hit what he calls his Million Dollar Kneelift on Duncum to get the 1-2-3. So Mr. Wrestling II is Ted Dibiase? But Million Dollar KNEELIFT? WTF??? After the match, Ivan Koloff unexpectedly grabbed the microphone while his manager Captain Lou Albano was trying to lead him to the back. Koloff made mention of putting yet another unfortunate competitor down and out, and said that it was time for the Championship Committee to make the right call and grant him a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. Ivan Koloff speaks English? Koloff to turn face by beating Morales for the title? An award for Bobo Brazil? If the award is a trophy the only question is who it gets smashed over the head of.
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 2, 2010 0:13:30 GMT -5
Mr. Wrestling II called his running kneelift the Million Dollar Kneelift in certain territories.
Koloff speaks enough English.
And there will be chaos for sure!
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Post by mamushi on Apr 2, 2010 8:52:29 GMT -5
Ivan Koloff speaks English? I should hope so. He's Canadian.
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Post by LillaThrilla on Apr 2, 2010 15:37:21 GMT -5
I should hope so. He's Canadian. But his character is Russian and this is the 1970s.
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Post by mamushi on Apr 2, 2010 16:09:23 GMT -5
Hence my use of the winky face. The really need a smiley that expresses sarcasm better
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 2, 2010 16:54:58 GMT -5
I was operating under the impression that it was broken English, but established enough that he is the #1 contender and proud of it.
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 3, 2010 19:34:33 GMT -5
December 25, 1973 - Madison Square Garden - New York, NY
The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) defeated Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II when R. Stevens pinned Wrestling II with the Bombs Away Kneedrop in 0:16:42. Rating: *** 1/4 (The Cripplers retained the GCW World Tag Team Titles.) [Bobby Heenan interfered against Mr. Wrestling I.] [Bobby Heenan interfered against Mr. Wrestling II.]
The year end show at MSG is always one of the most monumental nights of the year, and tonight would be no different. Some huge matches, including 3 big titles on the line. Our first match was one of those title matches with The Cripplers defending the World Tag Team Titles against the top contenders, Mr. Wrestling I & Mr. Wrestling II. If you had to go on just technical ability, you'd be hard pressed to find two finer teams than these two. As they have done before, Mr. Wrestling I & II tried to do the double switch, but referee Terry Taranova made a good call when he caught them and didn't allow it to happen. While I & II argued the call, Bockwinkel clipped II's knee, which allowed Ray Stevens to come off the top with the Bombs Away Kneedrop for a successful title defense.
Carlos Colon made Johnny Rodz submit to the Figure-Four Leglock in 0:05:33. Rating: ** 1/4
Johnny Rodz debuted last month in a losing effort, but he was looking to turn that around in his Madison Square Garden debut. To do so, he was going to need to use his best effort as he took on Carlos Colon. Colon spent his 1973 almost capturing the World Title, so it was going to be a tough row to hoe for Rodz. Rodz got in some early offense, but it didn't take Colon too long to recover and put on the Figure-Four Leglock to get the duke.
Baron Mikel Scicluna pinned Lou Albano with the Fistdrop in 0:06:58. Rating: * 3/4
Lou Albano was looking to humble and humiliate his former charge Baron Mikel Scicluna, going as far as to challenge him to a match. I'm not sure if Albano had a plan that didn't pan out, or if in his demented mind he thought he actually had a chance, but Scicluna kicked the crap out Albano en route to getting a clean victory. This would be only the first in a line of bad news for Captain Lou on this night.
Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka defeated Dominic DeNucci and Tony Garea when Tanaka defeated DeNucci when DeNucci passed out in a nerve hold in 0:14:50. Rating: ** 3/4
Mr. Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka fell short of becoming the top contenders for the World Tag Team Titles, but they have promised through an interpreter that in 1974, they will become the World Tag Team champions again. They took the first step in that direction with a win over Dominic DeNucci & Tony Garea to close out 1973 on a positive note.
Interview: Luke Graham buys Jerry Lawler's US Title shot.
Billy Graham was scheduled to defend the United States Title against Jerry "The King" Lawler, but before Billy Graham could be introduced, LUKE GRAHAM came out, and he had a bag with him. Luke announced that Lawler and himself had made a deal, and that using the $5,000 he won in last months battle royal, Luke Graham had purchased Lawler's title shot! Graham handed Lawler the bag, the two shook hands, and it looks like we have a different match than we expected!
Luke Graham pinned Billy Graham with the Thumb to the Throat in 0:14:57. Rating: ** (Luke Graham won the GCW United States Title.) [The Grand Wizard interfered against Luke Graham.]
Billy Graham was not at all prepared to wrestle against his brother Luke, but that's exactly what he had to do in this unexpected match. The Grand Wizard couldn't believe that this match was even allowed to take place, but it took place, and Luke took full advantage of it. Billy couldn't overcome the surprise of this match, and in the end ate the thumb to the Throat. Luke Graham is now a 3-time United States champion! Billy Graham & The Grand Wizard have vowed to take Luke Graham & GCW to court if this situation is not straightened out, but as of now, Luke is the reigning champion.
[WINNER MUST WIN WITH THE CLAW]: Baron Von Raschke made Blackjack Lanza submit to the Claw in 0:14:08. Rating: *** 1/4
Baron Von Raschke and Blackjack Lanza have been feuding and attacking each other for the past few months, all based on who has the best Claw in wrestling. It would be decided definitively here as the only way this match could end is with the Claw. The match was as brutal as we expected with both men make multiple attempts to put on the Claw throughout the match. Lanza even got the move applied at one point, but after a minute or so in the hold, Raschke managed to break his way out. This proved to frustrate Lanza, who took the turnbuckle pad off the top turnbuckle, looking to inflict some serious damage. It backfired though as it would be Raschke sending Lanza's head into the exposed steel, busting him wide open. Raschke put on the Claw after, and with the amount of blood Lanza was losing, he had to submit. Lanza is no longer undefeated thanks to a Herculian effort by Baron Von Raschke.
Bobby Duncum pinned Johnny Valentine with the Full Nelson Slam in 0:02:07. Rating: **
Blackjack Lanza may not be undefeated anymore, but another one of Bobby Heenan's charges still is, that being Bobby Duncum. Duncum was to have that challenged though when he took on veteran Johnny Valentine. Valentine exerted a lot of himself in Baltimore in a losing effort to Pedro Morales in a cage match, and that wear and tear showed as Duncum put Valentine away in just over two minutes. Valentine has decided that he will be leaving GCW to recover his body and wrestle a little closer to home. We wish Valentine all the best in the future.
Interview: Bobo Brazil is presented with an award, but Bobby Heenan interrupts.
This was supposed to be a very emotional moment in GCW history, as former World champion BOBO BRAZIL was making his first appearance in a wrestling ring since his career was tragically ended due to a severe back injury in March of 1971. Brazil was there with his son, Bobo Brazil Jr., to be presented with a special plaque to thank him for his service and contributions not only to Global Championship Wrestling, but to the entire world of wrestling. The ceremony was quite touching - that is, until BOBBY HEENAN came down to interrupt. Heenan was in rare form here, running Brazil down about being washed up and that no one cared about him anymore. Heenan kept pushing the line more and more until he finally called Brazil a cripple. This set Bobo Brazil Jr. off, who got in Heenan's face and grabbed him by the collar, demanding that he apologize. Unfortunately, this left Brazil Jr. wide open to an attack from behind by THE CRIPPLERS, who put the boots to the young kid. It was a sickening display, especially considering that Brazil Jr. is just a kid and not a wrestler. Bobo Brazil Sr. had to sit in horror and watch his son get beaten to a bloody pulp, and he could do nothing about it. Thankfully, someone had finally seen enough, and that man was shockingly ERNIE LADD. Ladd & Brazil never got along during their careers, but you can tell that there was a respect there. Ladd cleared the ring of The Cripplers and went to check on Brazil Jr. When he did so, Nick Bockwinkel got back in the ring, took Brazil's award plaque, and smashed it over the back of the head of Ladd, leaving him unconscious. This has to go down as one of the most disgusting things I have ever seen in my life.
Texas Death Match: Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) defeated The Texas Outlaws (Dusty Rhodes and Dick Murdoch) when Crusher pinned Dusty Rhodes with the Bolo Punch in 0:24:07. Rating: ** 3/4
The Texas Outlaws attacked the top dogs of the tag team world when they assaulted Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher. Tonight they would get to prove if they were tough enough to eat at the big dog's table as the two teams squared off in a Texas Death match. Talk about a massacre of a match. I don't know how to explain this match other than it was pure carnage and very bloody. Dusty Rhodes & Dick Murdoch showed a lot of gumption, finding ways to get back to their feet after every pinfall, and even got a few falls of their own. In the end though, Bruiser & Crusher showed that they're not ready to give up their spot as the top dogs, winning what was a brutal and intense match.
Ivan Koloff pinned Pedro Morales with the Russian Sickle in 0:21:13. Rating: *** 1/2 (Ivan Koloff won the GCW World Title.)
All day prior to this match, Captain Lou Albano did his best to make our main event not happen. World champion Pedro Morales was scheduled to defend against #1 contender Ivan Koloff, both men being under the management of Albano. He couldn't get either man to back down, so going into the match, he knew he was going to have to make a choice. Albano made it clear early that his choice, reluctantly, was with the champion Morales. This turned out to be a huge mistake, as all this did was light a fire under the Russian Bear. It was a good match, and Morales took Koloff further than anyone else had before. That's not a surprise - you don't become a World champion for no reason. However, Morales let his pride get in the way as he was trying everything he could to submit Koloff to the Boston Crab. I just can't see anyone ever making Koloff submit, and it didn't happen here. Morales didn't stray from his game plan at all though, and this allowed Koloff to make his comeback, hit the Russian Sickle, and become the brand new World Heavyweight champion. What a way to cap off an amazing first year in GCW for Ivan Koloff.
After the match, Albano tried to buddy up with Koloff, trying to convince him that he knew he could do it all along. Koloff saw through it though and took Albano's head off with the Russian Sickle to a thunderous ovation! It'll be quite some time before we see Captain Lou again.
Card rating: ** 3/4
Match observations:
The wrestling world was changed forever tonight as we had two brand new champions! What will 1974 bring us? Our first stop will be in Detroit on January 17!
WORLD TITLE REMATCH - Ivan Koloff (c) vs. Pedro Morales Jerry Lawler vs. Billy Graham Plus, we will find out the condition of Bobo Brazil Jr. after the cowardly attack by The Cripplers tonight.
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 3, 2010 19:38:51 GMT -5
WRESTLER OF THE YEAR: Ivan Koloff TAG TEAM OF THE YEAR: The Cripplers MANAGER OF THE YEAR: Lou Albano MATCH OF THE YEAR: World Title Match - Pedro Morales (c) vs. Ivan Koloff, New York, NY - 12/25/73 FEUD OF THE YEAR: Baron Von Raschke vs. Lou Albano MOST POPULAR: Billy Robinson MOST HATED: Pedro Morales NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR: Ivan Koloff
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Post by rey619 on Apr 4, 2010 6:13:29 GMT -5
Wohoo! Looking forward to 1974 now, as 1973 ended with back-to-back greatness. I liked the Luke Graham-twist, as he bought the title shot from Lawler. He should grant "the King" a title match, though. Finisher matches are very popular on the boards nowadays... so I' ve heard Did Johnny Valentine suffer a legitime heart attack IRL?
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 4, 2010 12:09:10 GMT -5
Wohoo! Looking forward to 1974 now, as 1973 ended with back-to-back greatness. I liked the Luke Graham-twist, as he bought the title shot from Lawler. He should grant "the King" a title match, though. Finisher matches are very popular on the boards nowadays... so I' ve heard Did Johnny Valentine suffer a legitimate heart attack IRL? I think finisher matches were just more popular in the 70s. And yes, Johnny Valentine legit had a heart attack in 1973. Craziness.
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Post by My Name is Not... on Apr 4, 2010 21:16:49 GMT -5
Just wanted to say I really enjoy this little circuit, not alot of feedback to offer really. Especially loved the finish to World Title Match with Albano losing his head... especially since I just got back from watching Alice in Wonderland and I have "off with his head" burned into my memory.
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 5, 2010 0:55:56 GMT -5
Just wanted to say I really enjoy this little circuit, not alot of feedback to offer really. Especially loved the finish to World Title Match with Albano losing his head... especially since I just got back from watching Alice in Wonderland and I have "off with his head" burned into my memory. Thanks bud. I appreciate it. Though Albano didn't really get decapitated, it may be an angle to consider in the future.
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 12, 2010 0:29:51 GMT -5
January 17, 1974 - Cobo Arena - Detroit, MI
Interview: The Cripplers take pride in what they did at MSG.
Our first show of 1974 kicked off with Bobby Heenan and The Cripplers coming out to brag about what they did at the year end show in New York, ruining Bobo Brazil's award ceremony, assaulting his son Bobo Jr., and smashing the plaque over the head of Ernie Ladd when he ran out to make the save. Ray Stevens & Nick Bockwinkel took great pride in doing what they did, saying that they are the focal point of the wrestling world now, and old crippled has-beens like Bobo Brazil have no place in the ring anymore. This brought out ERNIE LADD, and he kept it short and simple - he wanted a match against one of the World Tag Team champions, and he wanted it NOW! Ladd couldn't be 100% after the shot he took to the head last month, so Bockwinkel gladly accepted the challenge.
Nick Bockwinkel pinned Ernie Ladd after an inside cradle in 0:09:09. Rating: ** 3/4
Ernie Ladd may not have been in top physical condition to take this match, but he was running on pure anger as he beat the holy living tar out of Nick Bockwinkel. Bockwinkel & Bobby Heenan looked concerned as if they possibly made a mistake by being so confident in taking this match. Ladd was dominant in the opening minutes, but Bockwinkel got a forearm to Ladd's skull, which knocked him loopy. From there, Bockwinkel went after Ladd's head, trying to cause him severe physical harm. Ladd tried to fight back, but Bockwinkel caught him in an inside cradle, grabbed the tights, got the win, and got the hell out of town. This will only serve to make Ladd even more angry than he already was.
Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II defeated Baron Mikel Scicluna and Spiros Arion when Wrestling II pinned Scicluna with the Million Dollar Kneelift in 0:10:34. Rating: *** 1/4 (Johnny Rodz no-showed.)
This match was supposed to see Mr. Wrestling I & II taking on Johnny Rodz & Spiros Arion, but Johnny Rodz wasn't here, getting stuck in the Northeast thanks to a snow storm. Baron Mikel Scicluna stepped in to take his place. Scicluna may be free of Lou Albano, but frankly, he is still a jerk. Scicluna & Arion got along as a team surprisingly well, but I & II were firing on all cylinders, taking the win with relative ease. They came close to winning the tag titles last month, which has resulted in Mr. Wrestling I & II being granted a title rematch on February 11 in the Boston Garden!
Billy Robinson pinned Baron Mikel Scicluna with the Double-Arm Suplex in 0:05:45. Rating: ***
Baron Mikel Scicluna still had a scheduled singles match, and unfortunately with the way the card lined up, it was immediately following the tag team affair against the returned from injury Billy Robinson. Robinson didn't miss a beat, up to his old tricks as he picked up the win with the Double-Arm Suplex.
Harley Race pinned Don Muraco after a flying headbutt in 0:06:03. Rating: ** 1/2
We were all shocked to see the GCW debut of HARLEY RACE! Race is currently one of the top wrestlers in the world, and he had held out from wrestling for Global Championship Wrestling for years. Apparently a deal has been brokered, and he is now on the GCW roster! He made an immediate impact, winning in impressive fashion over Don Muraco. Afterwards, Race grabbed the mic and said 5 simple words: "I want the World Title." What an impressive debut for a world class athlete.
Jerry Lawler defeated Billy Graham by disqualification in 0:08:17. Rating: * 3/4 [The Grand Wizard interfered against Jerry Lawler.]
Billy Graham is still fuming over losing the United States Title. The Grand Wizard made several attempts to get GCW officials to return the US Title to the Superstar, but they would have none of it - Luke Graham remains the US champion. Billy Graham will be getting a rematch, but first, he wanted a match with Jerry Lawler, the man who sold the title shot to Luke Graham in the first place. Billy was in the foulest mood we have ever seen him, and poor Lawler suffered the consequences of it. Ironically, Lawler would actually get the win here, but it was when Graham got disqualified for destroying him with the ring bell. To send an even further message to his brother, Billy Graham locked the King in the Bearhug before officials peeled him away. The next chapter in this sibling rivalry promises to be a violent one.
The Texas Outlaws (Dusty Rhodes and Dick Murdoch) defeated Dominic DeNucci and Tony Garea when Murdoch pinned Garea with the Gourdbuster in 0:18:17. Rating: *** 1/4
The Texas Outlaws fell short in doing what they set out to do for their debut in GCW, and that's eliminate Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher. Dusty Rhodes & Dick Murdoch had to start all over again, taking on Dominic DeNucci & Tony Garea. DeNucci & Garea have been on a bit of a slump as of late, but you can't take away from the fact that they are former World Tag Team champions and not an easy win for anybody. The Outlaws had to work hard for it, but they would eventually take the victory when Murdoch hit the Gourdbuster on Garea to earn them a trip to the winner's circle.
Luke Graham pinned Bobby Duncum with the Thumb to the Throat in 0:14:25. Rating: *** 1/2 (Luke Graham retained the GCW United States Title.) [Bobby Heenan interfered against Luke Graham.]
Since Billy Graham chose to take his rematch for the US Title in Boston, Luke Graham was left without an opponent to make his first title defense of his third title reign. That shot was granted to the impressive youngster, Bobby Duncum. Bobby Heenan's newest wrestler has yet to lose in singles action, so this was by no means going to be an easy task. Duncum didn't show any sign of being intimidated by the GCW legend, going toe-to-toe with the US champion. Heenan had a great strategy in place too, having Duncum focus his attack on Graham's neck. Graham's neck issues are well documented, so this was sound strategy. However, Duncum couldn't quite get Graham in position to hit the Full Nelson Slam, his last attempt being countered with the Thumb to the Throat to become the first man to pin Duncum's shoulders to the mat, and retain the US Title in the process.
Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka defeated Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) when Tanaka made Crusher submit to a front facelock in 0:15:22. Rating: ** 1/4
The tag team division in GCW is really heating up, and this match here showed that no team is unbeatable. Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher have come out on the winning side of the coin more often than not, even when wrestling tonight's opponents, Mr. Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka. However, Fuji & Tanaka are opportunists, taking advantage of the fact that Bruiser & Crusher were still hurting from their Texas Death match on Christmas day. Fuji & Tanaka never let off the gas, the match coming to a close when Tanaka pretty much choked Crusher out with a front facelock.
Blackjack Lanza defeated Baron Von Raschke when Baron Von Raschke passed out in the Blackjack Claw in 0:15:50. Rating: ** 3/4
Baron Von Raschke is officially referring to himself as the "Claw Master" after defeating Blackjack Lanza in a battle of the clawholds at the 1973 year end show, something that was sitting in Lanza's craw. The two had a rematch tonight, and the result was very different. You could tell Lanza was having some doubts wrestling Raschke, not entirely sure that he could beat Raschke straight up. When Raschke was looking to be on his way to a repeat win, Lanza got desperate, being handed a pair of brass knuckles from Bobby Heenan and waffling Raschke right between the eyes with them. Raschke dropped like a sack of bricks as Lanza stashed the knux in his tights. Lanza put on the Blackjack Claw right away, and since raschke was knocked out cold, referee Danny Bartfield called for the bell. Lanza is your winner, by hook or by crook.
Ivan Koloff defeated Pedro Morales by countout in 0:13:04. Rating: ** 1/2 (Ivan Koloff retained the GCW World Title.)
Ivan Koloff has been absolutely unstoppable, so far undefeated in his GCW career en route to winning the World Title at MSG a few weeks back. In his first title defense, he put the gold on the line against the former champion, the most hated man in wrestling, Pedro Morales. Not only is Morales furious about how he lost the championship, but because of Koloff, Morales is also without a manager. Morales was all fired up tonight, willing to do anything it took to put Koloff away and get back what he thinks is rightfully his. Morales cut every corner and used every trick in the book to try to beat Koloff, but the Russian Bear would have none of it as he continued to defend against Morales' offense. Eventually after a big boot to the face sent Morales to the floor, Morales decided that discretion was the better part of valor, allowing himself to be counted out. Koloff was furious now, wanting to get his hands on Morales in the worst way. Morales has used this aggression to get another opportunity at the World Title in Boston, and surely he will have even more tricks up his sleeve.
Card rating: ** 3/4
Match observations:
The Boston Garden will be rocking on February 11 as GCW action returns to Beantown!
WORLD TITLE - Ivan Koloff (c) vs. Pedro Morales UNITED STATES TITLE - Luke Graham (c) vs. Billy Graham WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES - The Cripplers (c) vs. Mr. Wrestling I/Mr. Wrestling II Baron Von Raschke vs. Blackjack Lanza
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 12, 2010 0:31:11 GMT -5
February 11, 1974 - Boston Garden - Boston, MA
Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka defeated Dominic DeNucci and Tony Garea when Fuji pinned DeNucci after a small package in 0:17:03. Rating: *** 1/4
Mr. Fuji & Toru Tanaka are putting many wins together in succession these days, which is exactly what you need to do if you want to get a title shot. Tonight, Fuji & Tanaka got the better of Dominic DeNucci & Tony Garea. The veteran DeNucci made a rare mistake and got out countered in the ring, Fuji reversing a small package on DeNucci to get the 1-2-3.
Carlos Colon pinned Johnny Rodz after a headbutt in 0:02:02. Rating: **
Johnny Rodz didn't last long in this one against Carlos Colon. Colon decided he wasn't working by the hour, putting Rodz's shoulders to the mat after a vicious headbutt.
Harley Race pinned Jimmy Snuka with the Piledriver in 0:13:59. Rating: ** 1/4
Harley Race's second match was just as impressive as his first, getting a pinfall victory over Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka. What makes Race so dangerous in the ring is the pace that he sets. He takes his time and manipulates his opponent to his whims. Race savored in punishing Snuka, putting a hurting on him before putting him away with the Piledriver.
Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) defeated Baron Mikel Scicluna and Spiros Arion when Crusher defeated Scicluna by countout in 0:04:40. Rating: ** 3/4
Baron Mikel Scicluna has decided to take on The Grand Wizard as his manager, hoping it will bring him more success than Captain Lou Albano did. The Grand Wizard has Scicluna teaming up with Spiros Arion, who is in the middle of a huge losing streak himself. They don't have a lot of experience teaming, but they were thrown straight to the wolves as they were matched up against Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher. It didn't take long into the match for Scicluna & Arion to realize they were in trouble, so they decided that walking out for a countout was their best bet. An inauspicious start to the team of Siclcuna & Arion.
Baron Von Raschke defeated Blackjack Lanza by disqualification in 0:08:40. Rating: ** [Bobby Heenan interfered against Baron Von Raschke.]
The feud between Baron Von Raschke & Blackjack Lanza got more intense last month when Lanza knocked Raschke out with a pair of brass knuckles. This has fueled Raschke even more to take Lanza out. Another stiff brawl between these two that saw Lanza again try to use the brass knux. This time, though, referee Dick Kroll caught Lanza and made a great call, disqualifying him on the spot! To make matters worse for Lanza & Bobby Heenan, while they argued with the referee about the decision, raschke nailed Lanza, took the brass knux away, and clocked him in the jaw with it! Some sweet redemption for Raschke, but I have my doubts that this is the last chapter in this feud.
Billy Graham and Luke Graham battled to a draw in 0:20:00. Rating: ** 3/4 (Luke Graham retained the GCW United States Title.) [The Grand Wizard interfered against Luke Graham.]
Billy Graham got his rematch for the United States Title against his brother Luke Graham, and it was a pier sixer if I've ever seen one. How two brothers can have this much animosity toward each other is still mind boggling to me, but at least we get to enjoy the matches. This one would go to the time limit after both men took turns beating the crap out of each other. When the match came to a close, Billy had the Bearhug on Luke, who has a history of back problems. It looked like Luke was about to give it up, but he held until until the bell rang to make this a time limit draw. Billy & The Grand Wizard were livid when they found out they didn't regain the US Title, but the right call was made. However, a rematch has been signed between these two battling brothers for the March 2 MSG show.
Billy Robinson and Don Muraco defeated The Texas Outlaws (Dusty Rhodes and Dick Murdoch) when Muraco pinned Murdoch after a powerslam in 0:00:26. Rating: *
This match was shocking in that it only lasted 26 seconds. Billy Robinson & Don Muraco returned to teaming to take on The Texas Outlaws, and Muraco caught a cocky Murdoch by surprise with a quick powerslam to get a 3 count, that even shocked Billy Robinson. The Outlaws were not happy and a brawl erupted after the match that had to be pulled apart by officials. A rematch has been signed for the March 2 MSG show.
Gorilla Monsoon pinned Bobby Duncum after a splash in 0:02:08. Rating: * 3/4
Bobby Heenan was not pleased with Bobby Duncum's performance tonight as a mistake in judgment cost him a match against Gorilla Monsoon. Duncum is young and talented, but that youth also means he is inexperienced. Duncum got suckered into trying to bodyslam Monsoon, which is a mistake as Monsoon is over 400 pounds. Duncum got him up momentarily, but collapsed under the weight and knocked the wind right out of him. Monsoon followed up with a big splash and this one was over in a hurry. Heenan was mad at Duncum and told him he had a rematch with Monsoon next month, and that the result better be different.
Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II defeated The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) when Wrestling II pinned R. Stevens with the Million Dollar Kneelift in 0:11:15. Rating: ** 3/4 (Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II won the GCW World Tag Team Titles.) [Ernie Ladd interfered against Ray Stevens.]
We have brand new World Tag Team champions, and The Cripplers & Bobby Heenan are certainly regretting what they did to the Brazil family now! Ray Stevens & Nick Bockwinkel defended the tag team titles against Mr. Wrestling I & II, and this was a tremendous wrestling contest. After a neck and neck contest, it looked like the The Cripplers were on their way to a successful title defense, but ERNIE LADD had other plans. While referee Jack Davis (Ladd's old manager, coincidentally) was being contained by Bobby Heenan with the intention of Bockwinkel interfering, Ladd ran down and knocked Bockwinkel off the apron, jumped in the ring, and hit the Boot to the Face on Stevens to completely wipe him out! Mr. Wrestling II followed with the Million Dollar Kneelift and that was game, set, match! The masked men from Georgia are the World Tag Team champions! Bobby Heenan was beside himself, vowing that this was the last thing that Ernie Ladd will ever do.
Ivan Koloff pinned Pedro Morales after hitting him with a foreign object in 0:19:39. Rating: ** 1/2 (Ivan Koloff retained the GCW World Title.)
Pedro Morales is becoming obsessed with beating Ivan Koloff and regaining the World Title, but so far, it hasn't turned out well for him. In our main event, Morales had another opportunity to get his hand raised and become a 2-time World champion, and he pulled out all of the stops to derail the undefeated Russian. Koloff is still a beast though, and with every show, he shows more and more of just how dominating he could be. After referee Dick Kroll inadvertently got smashed into the corner, Morales dropped Koloff and grabbed Koloff's own steel chain. Morales wrapped it around his fist, but in doing so gave the Russian Bear time to recover. Koloff blocked the punch and hit Morales with a bodyslam. Koloff got the chain from him, wrapped it around his arm, and absolutely blasted Morales with the Russian Sickle. A groggy Kroll crawled over and made the count, and the match was over. Morales wants one more shot at Koloff, and Koloff has agreed to give him just one more shot - in a steel cage match! One way or another, this one is going to be settled.
Card rating: ** 1/4
Match observations:
March 2 at Madison Square Garden, you do not want to miss this great night of action!
WORLD TITLE CAGE MATCH (Morales' last shot) - Ivan Koloff (c) vs. Pedro Morales UNITED STATES TITLE - Luke Graham (c) vs. Billy Graham WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES - Mr. Wrestling I/Mr. Wrestling II (c) vs. Mr. Fuji/Toru Tanaka Ernie Ladd/Baron Von Raschke vs. The Cripplers Gorilla Monsoon vs. Bobby Duncum Billy Robinson/Don Muraco vs. The Texas Outlaws
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 12, 2010 0:32:43 GMT -5
March 2, 1974 - Madison Square Garden - New York, NY
Carlos Colon made Johnny Rodz submit to the Figure-Four Leglock in 0:10:15. Rating: *** 3/4
We are back in Madison Square Garden, and we had a huge lineup of matches in store for you all, starting with Carlos Colon taking on Johnny Rodz. Rodz has been impressive in his young GCW stint, but hasn't gotten to the winner's circle yet. He is consistently hanging with his opponents every match, but can't quite find the combo of moves to get the duke. He would again come up short here, as the fiery Colon opened up the show with a win.
Colon had a bit of a run-in as while he was celebrating, HARLEY RACE, who was scheduled to wrestle in our next match, decided Colon was taking too long and got into it with him. After a heated exchange, Colon tried to head to the back without incident, but Race nailed him with a forearm from behind and knocked him to the floor. Colon tried to get back in the ring after Race, but officials held him at bay and took him to the back.
Harley Race pinned Dominic DeNucci with the Piledriver in 0:05:57. Rating: ** 3/4
Harley Race is causing all kinds of problem since coming to GCW, but one thing he hasn't done is disappoint. Race continued looking like a top tier competitor as he took on Dominic DeNucci in a winning effort. After the match, CARLOS COLON tried to get back to the ring to get himself a piece of Race, but was held back by officials once again. There will be no officials in the way as they will go one-on-one on April 4 at our debut show in Landover, Maryland!
The Texas Outlaws (Dusty Rhodes and Dick Murdoch) defeated Billy Robinson and Don Muraco when Dusty Rhodes pinned Muraco with the Bionic Elbowdrop in 0:11:24. Rating: *** 1/4
Don Muraco surprised The Texas Outlaws when he helped he & Billy Robinson to get a quick victory in only 26 seconds. Dusty Rhodes & Dick Murdoch were far better prepared and wrestled far more intelligently. They are a young team and rough around the edges, but there is a lot of raw talent here. They were able to get Muraco in the ring and cut it in half en route to picking up the win. There will be a rubber match in Landover between these two teams.
Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II defeated Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka when Wrestling II pinned Fuji with the Million Dollar Kneelift in 0:20:53. Rating: *** 3/4 (Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II retained the GCW World Tag Team Titles.)
Mr. Wrestling I & II have been fantastic in GCW rings so far, and tonight they made their very first title defense since becoming the new World Tag Team champions. Their first title defense would be against a team that has beat them before and surely has the skills to beat them again in Mr. Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka. The Mr. Wrestlings have certainly lived up to their monikers as they have put on wrestling clinics. When you see these two in the ring, you know you're going to get a lengthy wrestling clinic. Fuji & Tanaka can wrestle that style, and they held their own and then some in this chance to regain the titles they held two years ago. They fell short in this attempt, but there is no shame losing in this match. Fuji & Tanaka will surely get a rematch in the near future, but the next rematch goes to the recent former champions, The Cripplers.
Blackjack Lanza made Tony Garea submit to the Blackjack Claw in 0:04:38. Rating: ***
Blackjack Lanza got a bit of a break from his battles with Baron Von Raschke as he took on Tony Garea. A game outing from Garea, but this one was never in doubt as Lanza racks up another victory with the Blackjack Claw.
Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) defeated Baron Mikel Scicluna and Spiros Arion when Bruiser made Scicluna submit to the Stomach Claw in 0:06:50. Rating: ** 1/2
A second attempt by Spiros Arion & Baron Mikel Scicluna to defeat Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher was met with similar results as the first one, a sound victory for the former 7-time tag champions.
Bobby Duncum pinned Gorilla Monsoon after a flying bodypress in 0:10:54. Rating: * 1/2
Bobby Heenan told Bobby Duncum his performance against Gorilla Monsoon better improve, and that's exactly what he did. Monsoon is still a good athlete, but years in the ring have caused him to lose a step or two. Duncum dragged this match out a bit, took his lumps early but tired Monsoon out en route to hitting a flying bodypress to get a huge win here in the Garden.
Luke Graham pinned Billy Graham with the Thumb to the Throat in 0:18:56. Rating: *** (Luke Graham retained the GCW United States Title.) [The Grand Wizard interfered against Luke Graham.]
Billy Graham felt that he should have been the United States champion after the show in Boston when he had Luke Graham locked in the Bearhug when the time limit expired. Superstar Billy has not gotten that signature win over his older brother that he so desperately craves. Luke has been with this company since 1965 and has done it all, holding every major title. As a result, he knows all the tricks of the trade, and he uses these to perfection against his little brother. Billy is so dead set on beating his brother, that he makes a lot of foolish mistakes. Luke took advantage of these mistakes on his way to hitting the Thumb to the Throat to retain the US Title. Superstar Billy is going to have to keep waiting for that signature win over his brother.
The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) and Jimmy Snuka and Ernie Ladd battled to a double countout in 0:03:28. Rating: ** 1/2 (Baron Von Raschke no-showed.)
Our semi-main event was intended to be The Cripplers taking on the team of Ernie Ladd & Baron Von Raschke, but Raschke never made it to the ring. We weren't sure at the time where he was, but we later received word that the car Raschke has his driver take him to the shows with "mysteriously" had its tires slashed. That left Ladd without a partner, but thankfully for him, JIMMY SNUKA stepped up to the plate and agreed to team with him. The Superfly certainly has no love lost for the Heenan Family, so this was a good development for Ladd. The match itself didn't last long though as both Ladd & Snuka were highly charged and motivated, taking the fight directly to The Cripplers, making this contest end in a double countout. If this wasn't a chaotic enough scene for you, in Landover on April 4, it will be a 6-man tag team match with The Cripplers & Blackjack Lanza taking on Ernie Ladd, Jimmy Snuka, & Baron Von Raschke!
Cage Match: Ivan Koloff defeated Pedro Morales by escaping the cage in 0:32:38. Rating: *** (Ivan Koloff retained the GCW World Title.)
This was Pedro Morales' last opportunity to get the World Title back around his waist, and to do so, he would have to beat the undefeated juggernaut that is our champion, "The Russian Bear" Ivan Koloff inside of a 15-foot high solid steel cage. Though being trapped in any confines with Koloff isn't a great idea, this was Morales' best chance to defeat him. In a cage match, it's not always about pinfalls and submissions - it's about beating your opponent down and getting out of the cage. Morales can dish out a beating as good as anyone in the business, and he did that. Each time these two face off, Koloff is pushed a little closer to the brink, and it looked like this could be the night that saw Koloff getting his first loss handed to him. It was looking like it would be all Morales when Pedro busted Koloff open early by throwing him into the cage. Koloff was in trouble, but once he saw the blood pouring down his face, it was like he kicked it into a whole other gear, dishing out the punishment in spades. Still, the comeback looked like it was too little too late as Morales wore Koloff out with the Boston Crab. Morales had a lot taken out of him too during this match, so his climb over the top was taxing on him to say the least. Koloff showed great heart and determination by catching Morales before he got all the way over the top, and brought him back into the ring with a bone-rattling superplex! This was enough for Koloff to crawl over to the door and escape the cage, giving him the victory in what may be the greatest cage match in GCW history.
Card rating: ** 3/4
Match observations:
GCW is super excited for our debut at the Capital Center in Landover, MD on April 4!
Ernie Ladd/Baron Von Raschke/Jimmy Snuka vs. The Cripplers/Blackjack Lanza Carlos Colon vs. Harley Race Billy Robinson/Don Muraco vs. The Texas Outlaws
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Post by snabbit888 on Apr 18, 2010 14:35:05 GMT -5
April 4, 1974 - Capital Center - Landover, MD
Dominic DeNucci defeated Billy Graham by disqualification in 0:01:14. Rating: * 1/4
The first match to ever take place at the Capital Center didn't last long, but it was memorable as "Superstar" Billy Graham took on Dominic DeNucci. Billy Graham is still fuming that he has yet to figure out a way to beat his brother Luke, and he took it out on DeNucci. DeNucci got the win, but it was because the Superstar got disqualified for beating the ever-living nonsense out of him. It looks like Billy's desire to step out of his brother's shadow may run deeper than we originally thought.
Interview: The Grand Wizard wants Ernie Ladd back under contract.
After that match, The Grand Wizard stuck around the ring and he wanted Ernie Ladd to come out. The Grand Wizard said that he had let it slide to this point, but Ladd left him high and dry without warning and without compensation. He reminded Ladd that they had a written contract for him to be his manager, and that Ladd broke that contract. Ladd came out to deal with this, telling The Grand Wizard that he wanted no part of him anymore. The Grand Wizard retorted that that was perfectly fine, as long as he paid him $10,000 to terminate the contract or face a breach of contract lawsuit. That made Ladd lose it, grabbing Wizard by the shirt and yelling at him. Ladd forgot that Billy Graham was still lurking around and got attacked from behind, being put in the Bearhug before officials broke it up. Ladd was not going to be at 100% for tonight's main event after this cowardly attack.
Mr. Wrestling II pinned Johnny Rodz with the Million Dollar Kneelift in 0:08:40. Rating: *** 1/2
The World Tag Team champions were in singles action tonight to stay sharp for their title defense against The Cripplers on April 19 in Philadelphia, starting with Mr. Wrestling II taking on Johnny Rodz. This was a wrestling clinic from II, not having a lot of trouble in putting Rodz away with the Million Dollar Kneelift.
Jerry Lawler defeated Pedro Morales by disqualification in 0:07:44. Rating: * 1/2
Pedro Morales was unable to regain the World Title from Ivan Koloff, and he took that out tonight on an old enemy of his, Jerry "The King" Lawler. Just like Billy Graham in the opener, Morales lost his cool and cost himself the match. Morales originally had won the match with the Boston Crab, but refused to let go of the hold, leading to referee Terry Taranova reversing the decision.
The Texas Outlaws (Dusty Rhodes and Dick Murdoch) defeated Billy Robinson and Don Muraco when Dusty Rhodes pinned Muraco with the Bionic Elbowdrop in 0:08:44. Rating: ***
This match was a rubber match of sorts as these two teams have exchanged wins the past 2 months. Billy Robinson may be the best wrestler of the four, but Dusty Rhodes & Dick Murdoch have more experience working together as a team, traveling together and basically being inseparable for the past several years. They used this to pick up the win. GCW officials have to be considering giving The Texas Outlaws a title shot soon.
Luke Graham pinned Spiros Arion with the Thumb to the Throat in 0:04:35. Rating: ** 1/4
This wasn't much more than a workout match for United States champion Luke Graham, facing the hapless singles competitor Spiros Arion in a non-title match. Not a whole lot of offense from the Golden Greek before Graham put him away with the Thumb to the Throat.
Harley Race pinned Carlos Colon with the Piledriver in 0:18:56. Rating: *** 1/4
A great wrestling match as Carlos Colon looked to be the first man to shut Harley Race up. Race is proving himself to be highly dangerous in the ring, as the veteran has a methodical style. He is not content simply winning a match - he wants to torture his opponent. Colon fired away on Race for a lot of this match, but Race certainly controlled the pace. In the end, Race outlasted Colon to put him away with the Piledriver.
Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) defeated Billy Graham and Toru Tanaka when Crusher pinned Tanaka with the Bolo Punch in 0:08:35. Rating: ** 1/2 [The Grand Wizard interfered against Dick the Bruiser.] (Mr. Fuji no-showed.)
Mr. Fuji had some travel issues after he made a trip back to his homeland of Japan, so Professor Toru Tanaka was left without a partner to take on Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher. "Superstar" Billy Graham answered the call as he was still in a foul mood. Graham didn't wrestle much in the ring, but what he did was impactful. When he got tagged in, he came in and laid out The Bruiser, but after that, immediately tagged Tanaka back in and then just went to the back. While Tanaka was trying to figure out why Graham was leaving, Bruiser crawled over and tagged in The Crusher, who came in and flattened Tanaka with the Bolo Punch for the 1-2-3. Strange actions from the Superstar.
Baron Mikel Scicluna pinned Mr. Wrestling I with the Fistdrop in 0:09:39. Rating: *** 3/4 [Spiros Arion and The Grand Wizard interfered against Mr. Wrestling I.]
Mr. Wrestling II didn't have a lot of trouble earlier with Johnny Rodz, but Mr. Wrestling I found difficulty against Baron Mikel Scicluna thanks to outside interference from both The Grand Wizard and Spiros Arion. After a good competitive match, Wrestling I had Scicluna locked in the Sleeperhold when Arion jumped up on the apron. This brought out Mr. Wrestling II, who pulled him down and fought with him on the floor. During the commotion, The Grand Wizard tossed a roll of coins into Scicluna, who barely managed to grab them while in the Sleeper, and then reached back to clock Wrestling I in the face. He followed with a coin-aided Fistdrop and got the 3 count. With this win, this could skyrocket Scicluna & Arion up to get a title shot. If they can somehow find a way to get past Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher in Philly, they very well might get that shot sooner rather than later.
Ivan Koloff pinned Bobby Duncum with the Russian Sickle in 0:21:58. Rating: (Ivan Koloff retained the GCW World Title.)
Ivan Koloff had to reach deep down to turn back the challenges of Pedro Morales, but he is finding that when you're the World champion, it doesn't get any easier. He had a tough challenge in Bobby Duncum, and even with the big 6-man tag main event to focus on, you knew Bobby Heenan was going to pull out every dirty trick he could to try to get the World Title. It almost looked at one point like he did when Duncum hit a running bulldog on Koloff and went for the cover. Koloff got his foot up on the ropes before the 3 count, but referee Dick Kroll originally missed it and counted the 3. The fans were irate as Duncum & Heenan celebrated with the championship before referee Terry Taranova ran down and explained what happened. The match restarted, and not long after, Koloff hit a flustered Duncum with the Russian Sickle for the 1-2-3. Heenan has been a pain since this event took place, complaining to the GCW Championship Committee that Duncum should be the World champion right now. The Championship Committee believes he may have a point, and as a result, has granted Duncum a rematch on April 19 in a 2/3 falls match!
The Heenan Family (Blackjack Lanza, Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) defeated Baron Von Raschke, Ernie Ladd and Jimmy Snuka when Bockwinkel pinned Raschke with the Piledriver in 0:13:22. Rating: *** 3/4
The main event was a big 6-man tag team match with a lot of emotion involved as the strange team of Baron Von Raschke, Jimmy Snuka, & Ernie Ladd joined forces to fight the common enemy of Ray Stevens, Nick Bockwinkel, & Blackjack Lanza of the Heenan Family. The fans in the Capital Center were solidly behind the fan favorite team, especially after all of the vile things that the Heenan Family has done over the months. Ladd was not at his best after the attack from Billy Graham earlier in the evening, but he was running on pure emotion. They would add another vile action to that ever-growing list as during this great match, Lanza would nail Raschke in the ribs with a pair of brass knuckles from the apron during a lot of commotion. Raschke was in intense pain, which allowed Bockwinkel to his the Piledriver and get a cheap pin. Raschke will get one last opportunity for retribution on April 19, as for the first time ever, Raschke & Lanza will meet in a Brass Knuckles of a Pole match!
Card rating: *** 1/4
Match observations:
The card for April 19 in Philadelphia is stacked, with the following matches already signed, sealed, and ready to deliver:
WORLD TITLE 2/3 FALLS - Ivan Koloff (c) vs. Bobby Duncum WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES - Mr. Wrestling I/Mr. Wrestling II (c) vs. The Cripplers BRASS KNUCKLES ON A POLE MATCH - Baron Von Raschke vs. Blackjack Lanza Ernie Ladd vs. Billy Graham Dick the Bruiser/The Crusher vs. Baron Mikel Scicluna/Spiros Arion
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Post by snabbit888 on May 5, 2010 2:08:44 GMT -5
April 19, 1974 - The Spectrum - Philadelphia, PA
Baron Mikel Scicluna and Spiros Arion defeated Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) when Scicluna pinned Bruiser with the Fistdrop in 0:10:18. Rating: ***
The opening match was as big of an upset as we have seen in quite some time as Baron Mikel Scicluna & Spiros Arion somehow got a win over Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher. It wasn't a clean victory and involved a lot of tomfoolery, but when you look in the record books, it will say that Scicluna & Arion own a victory over the former 7-time World Tag Team champions. And with this win, as well as Scicluna's win last month in singles action, Scicluna & Arion have been granted the next title match for the tag titles on May 16 from Baltimore!
Jimmy Snuka pinned Johnny Rodz with the Superfly Splash in 0:05:45. Rating: ** 3/4
"The Unpredictable" Johnny Rodz is still searching for that first win in GCW after dropping a match to Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka tonight. Snuka has really come into his own since taking some lumps early in his career as a rookie, and now as he gets more and more experience, he looks primed to become a contender for a championship in the future.
Gorilla Monsoon made Toru Tanaka submit to the Airplane Spin in 0:04:02. Rating: ** 1/2
Gorilla Monsoon may not be what he once was, but he is still a 400 pound monster that is a tough out for anyone. Just ask Professor Toru Tanaka, who didn't have an answer for the Manchurian Mauler. Monsoon picks up the victory to the delight of the fans in Philadelphia.
Pedro Morales defeated Don Muraco by disqualification in 0:09:27. Rating: * 1/2
Talk about your miscarriages of justice! During this match between Don Muraco & Pedro Morales, the match degenerated into a pier six brawl when referee Danny Bartfield got caught with an errant elbow. During the brawl that ensued, Morales hit a low blow and then grabbed the ring bell from the timekeeper's table. When he got back into the ring, Muraco hit a boot to the gut and got possession of the ring bell! Unfortunately, this was when Bartfield recovered and he saw Morales down and Muraco holding the ring bell and called for the DQ. Muraco and the fans couldn't believe it as he pled his case to Bartfield, but the decision was final. To make matters worse, Morales jumped Muraco from behind and put him in the Boston Crab before BILLY ROBINSON ran down and chased him off, setting up a match between the two on May 16 in Baltimore.
Billy Graham pinned Ernie Ladd after a piledriver in 0:03:25. Rating: ** 1/4
The relationship between Ernie Ladd & his former manager The Grand Wizard has completely fallen apart after Ladd did the right thing a few months back and saved Bobo Brazil & his son from a beating from the Heenan Family. The Grand Wizard told Ladd that he was in breach of contract and wanted Ladd to either report back to duty or pay him a hefty fee to buy out the contract. Instead, Ladd grabbed Wizard by the shirt. Enter "Superstar" Billy Graham, who left Ladd laying, hence the reason for this match. Ladd's back was still bothering him somewhat from Graham's attack on him in Landover, and the Superstar used that to his advantage to get a fairly easy win. If Ladd was 100%, this would be an entirely different ball game. Ladd is going to rehab his injury, and will have another chance against Billy Graham in Baltimore.
The Texas Outlaws (Dusty Rhodes and Dick Murdoch) defeated Dominic DeNucci and Tony Garea when Dusty Rhodes pinned DeNucci with the Bionic Elbowdrop in 0:04:13. Rating: **
Dusty Rhodes & "Dirty" Dick Murdoch are wanting to get into contention for a World Tag Team Title shot, and they've been doing everything right so far. They took Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher to the limit in late 1973, and tonight they got a big win over the former champions, Dominic DeNucci & Tony Garea. Rhodes & Murdoch haven't been granted their title shot yet, but if the two gruff brawlers keep this up, it's only a matter of time.
Interview: Harley Race wants some competition.
Harley Race has not been shy since coming to GCW that he feels he is a superior wrestler to anyone in GCW. Tonight he grabbed the microphone and made sure to single out World champion Ivan Koloff as running scared from him. Race ended by practically BEGGING anyone in the back to come out and give him some real competition. Race got his wish as United States champion LUKE GRAHAM answered the challenge!
Luke Graham and Harley Race battled to a double disqualification in 0:08:08. Rating: * 3/4
If Harley Race wanted competition, he got it in spades from the US champion Luke Graham. This match was non-title due to its spontaneous nature, but I don't think that mattered much to either man as they were looking for a fight. Luke Graham has proven over the last decade that he is one of, if not the toughest man in all of wrestling, but Race showed he is just as tough by going toe-to-toe with the US champ. In the end, this one fell apart and both men were disqualified when they stopped listening to referee instructions in lieu of beating the tar out of each other. Still a lot to settle in this one, and they will try to do just that when the US Title is on the line in Baltimore.
Carlos Colon pinned Mr. Fuji with the Figure-Four Leglock in 0:15:39. Rating: *** 1/2
Just as his partner Toru Tanaka was earlier, Mr. Fuji was in singles action tonight, taking on Carlos Colon. This was a highly competitive match that showed that Mr. Fuji may have a future in the singles division one day if Tanaka & he ever go their separate ways. However, Colon is one of the finest singles competitors in the world, proving it with a hard fought victory here in Philly.
Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II defeated The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) when Wrestling II pinned R. Stevens with the Million Dollar Kneelift in 0:11:55. Rating: ** 1/2 (Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II retained the GCW World Tag Team Titles.) [Bobby Heenan interfered against Mr. Wrestling II.]
This was a rematch that a lot of people were looking forward to, myself included. The Cripplers were looking to become 3-time World Tag Team champions in their rematch against the team that bested them for the titles, the masked duo of Mr. Wrestling I & Mr. Wrestling II. This was a hotly contested match for the most important tag team titles in the world, showing the important that having these titles means. No one knows that better than Bobby Heenan, who has seen his wallet become a little lighter since losing control of the tag titles. Heenan did his normal interfering in hopes to give his men the advantage, but the current champs had no desire to see their reign come to a halt as they found a way to pull this one out and turn away the challenge of Ray Stevens & Nick Bockwinkel.
Brass Knux On A Pole Match: Baron Von Raschke made Blackjack Lanza submit to the Claw in 0:11:09. Rating: ** 1/4 [Bobby Heenan interfered against Baron Von Raschke.]
The feud between Baron Von Raschke & Blackjack Lanza has reached the point where GCW officials announced that this would be the last match these two had against each other for quite some time (for the safety of both men). To settle this one once and for all, for the first time in GCW history, we were going to see a Brass Knux on a Pole match. Considering how many times these two have nailed each other with brass knuckles over the past several months, it makes sense that the feud would end in such a manner. Both Raschke & Lanza are large men and they found it difficult in their early attempts to ascend the pole to get to the brass knux. They were okay with that though, as instead they focused on beating the trash out of each other. Late in the match after these two slugged it out, Lanza took the advantage when he sent Raschke into the pole that held the knux, knocking him loopy. Lanza then put Raschke down with the Blackjack Claw, but in this match, there couldn't be a winner until someone got the brass knux. With Raschke out cold, Lanza made an attempt, but he couldn't climb up the pole. Lanza sent his manager, BOBBY HEENAN up the pole as the weasel scurried up to get the knux. However, with the time that was taken to do so, Raschke had recovered and hit Lanza in the back, sending him crashing into Heenan! The brass knux went sprawling on the mat, where Raschke grabbed them. Raschke dusted Lanza in the jaw with them, knocking him senseless before putting on the Claw to officially get the win and end this blood feud once and for all.
Raschke seems to have a dark cloud surrounding him though, as for the past two years, whenever one violent feud ends, another seems to begin. Raschke literally got all of 30 seconds before his next blood feud started, as Bobby Heenan had an emergency plan in place. Before Raschke could get out of the ring, BOBBY DUNCUM nailed him in the back of the head with a cowboy boot! Raschke, already tired from his match, fell like a sack of bricks. To make matters worse, Duncum took the boot which had a spur on it and used it to carve up Raschke's forehead, leaving the burly German a bloody mess! Raschke finally received help when Duncum's opponent in the main event, World champion IVAN KOLOFF ran down to start our main event!
Two-out-of-three-Falls Match: Ivan Koloff beat Bobby Duncum 2 falls to 0: x I. Koloff beat Duncum via a foreign object in 0:14:03 x I. Koloff beat Duncum via the Russian Sickle in 0:21:23 Rating: *** 3/4 (Ivan Koloff retained the GCW World Title.) [Bobby Heenan interfered against Ivan Koloff.]
The main event kicked off while the medical staff was trying to help Baron Von Raschke to the back. The action was hot and heavy from the word go, and it didn't let up throughout the course of this World Title affair. Bobby Duncum had a tough row to hoe as to win the title, not only was he going to have to beat the undefeated Ivan Koloff, but he was going to have to beat him twice as this match was 2/3 falls. Duncum managed to put a hurting on Koloff in the early minutes, throwing the Russian Bear off his game with the way that the match started. Duncum took a chance and grabbed Koloff's chain while Bobby Heenan had referee Dick Kroll's attention, but Koloff wrestled the chain away from Duncum and clocked him with it, opening up a cut on his forehead and getting the first fall in the process. After the rest period, Duncum regained the advantage with a poke to the eye, but his time on the offensive would be short lived as the cut on his forehead was really pouring into his eyes, obscuring his vision. It was only a matter of time before Koloff hit the Russian Sickle and the mighty World champion retained his championship.
Card rating: ** 3/4
Match observations:
We are off to the Civic Center in Baltimore, Maryland next on May 16 with the following matches signed, sealed, and ready to deliver!
WORLD TITLE - Ivan Koloff (c) vs. Blackjack Lanza UNITED STATES TITLE - Luke Graham (c) vs. Harley Race WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES - Mr. Wrestling I/Mr. Wrestling II (c) vs. Baron Mikel Scicluna/Spiros Arion Ernie Ladd vs. Billy Graham Billy Robinson vs. Pedro Morales Jimmy Snuka vs. Bobby Duncum Dick the Bruiser/The Crusher vs. Mr. Fuji/Toru Tanaka Don Muraco vs. Johnny Rodz
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Post by snabbit888 on May 5, 2010 2:13:30 GMT -5
May 16, 1974 - Civic Center - Baltimore, MD
Don Muraco pinned Johnny Rodz after a lariat in 0:01:51. Rating: ***
Johnny Rodz is still in need of that first win, but he is going to have to keep searching as he fell in our opening contest in under two minutes to Don Muraco. Muraco countered a Rodz clothesline with a huge lariat that rattled his cage. Rodz was originally thought to have a concussion after the match, but further tests were run and showed that he will be okay.
Mr. Fuji and Toru Tanaka defeated Crusher & Bruiser (The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser) when Fuji pinned Crusher with the Thrust Kick in 0:21:38. Rating: ** 3/4
It was a very competitive contest, but once again, Dick the Bruiser & The Crusher came out on the losing end of a match. Their opponents in Baltimore were Mr. Fuji & Professor Toru Tanaka, two men they are very familiar with. There is no shame in losing to a team the caliber of Fuji & Tanaka, but this is now a series of losses for Bruiser & Crusher. A lot of people are starting to wonder out loud if Bruiser & Crusher have lost their edge. I wouldn't let them hear you say that though - they'll still knock your teeth out if given the chance.
Pedro Morales and Billy Robinson battled to a draw in 0:20:00. Rating: ** 1/2
Billy Robinson came to the aid of his protege' and tag team partner Don Muraco last month when Pedro Morales insisted on continuing the assault, prompting this match between two of the best of the world to be signed here for Baltimore. This match could be a main event in any arena in the world, and the way these two wrestled again each other proved that they thought the same thing. Normally Robinson can keep his opposition grounded with his superior wrestling technique, but the fiery temper of Morales, though dangerous and not very popular, helps to keep himself out of precarious situations in the ring. Robinson & Muraco jockeyed for position throughout the match, neither man getting the advantage for very long. As a result, nothing was settled as a winner could not be determined within the 20 minute time limit, resulting in a draw. The two tremendous athletes will go at it once again on June 9 at MSG, this time with a 30 minute time limit. We'll see if that is enough to determine who the better man is.
Interview: Bobby Heenan & The Cripplers want a rematch for the World Tag Team Titles.
Bobby Heenan was in a foul mood as he came out with Ray Stevens & Nick Bockwinkel - The Cripplers. Heenan had his big book of excuses and he read from chapter one, complaining about all of the illegal tactics that Mr. Wrestling I & II allegedly used in the World Tag Team Title match last month. The list ranged from pulling the tights and hair to how wrestlers in masks shouldn't be allowed to compete because, "Hey, what are they trying to hide anyway!?" The tirade was seemingly never going to end until Heenan was unexpectedly interrupted by THE TEXAS OUTLAWS - Dusty Rhodes & Dick Murdoch! Rhodes & Murdoch told Heenan to "quit yer belly achin'" and take your loss like a man. This didn't sit well with Stevens & Bockwinkel, who got in the Outlaws' faces and challenged them to a match on the spot!
The Texas Outlaws (Dusty Rhodes and Dick Murdoch) defeated The Cripplers (Nick Bockwinkel and Ray Stevens) when Murdoch defeated Bockwinkel by countout in 0:09:08. Rating: *** [Bobby Heenan interfered against Dusty Rhodes.]
We had an impromptu tag team match between two of the more unpopular teams in all of wrestling, The Cripplers & The Texas Outlaws. Rhodes & Murdoch don't care who is in the ring with them - they are always just looking for a fight, and they were more than willing to take it to Stevens & Bockwinkel, known as two of the toughest men in GCW. Stevens & Bockwinkel asked for the fight, but after taking their lumps, they decided that discretion was the greater part of valor as Heenan walked them to the back for a countout. Heenan is not counting the loss though, saying they weren't prepared so it shouldn't count. They'll have time to prepare now though, as a rematch has been signed for MSG, and as an added stipulation, the winners will become the #1 contenders for the World Tag Team Titles.
Harley Race pinned Luke Graham after outside interference in 0:14:59. Rating: *** (Harley Race won the GCW United States Title.) [Billy Graham interfered against Luke Graham.]
If you thought the fight between Luke Graham & Harley Race was intense last month, take these two, give them a month to prepare, and put the United States Title on the line. Now there's an intense fight. Two tough guys trying to prove who is the tougher man will always be fun to watch, and this one was no exception. Referee Terry Taranova had all kinds of trouble keeping order, and as a result, he got knocked out when he was trapped in the corner trying to separate the two men. Race used this to bodyslam Graham to the canvas, go to the timekeeper's table, and grab the US Title. Race swung wildly at Graham, but Graham ducked and hit a clothesline. Luke Graham grabbed the US Title and waffled Race, knocking him out cold. Problem was, Taranova was still out as well. While Luke had the cover, BILLY GRAHAM ran out from the back, grabbed the US Title, and smashed his brother in the back of the head with it! Billy put Race on top of Luke, stirred the referee, and in a huge miscarriage of justice, we have a new US champion! Billy's obsession with defeating his brother Luke has reached a new low, costing his own flesh and blood the US Title.
Bobby Duncum pinned Jimmy Snuka with the Full Nelson Slam in 0:08:37. Rating: *** 1/4
Bobby Duncum may come to regret making an enemy out of Baron Von Raschke. Raschke has a way of making you regret messing with him, and Duncum is finding out in a hurry that when you play with fire, you're going to get burned. After Duncum got the better of Jimmy Snuka with the Full Nelson Slam, Raschke came out to the ring with a look of pure rage and insanity etched on his face. Luckily for Bobby Duncum & Bobby Heenan, they saw him coming and ran away through the crowd, but is is crystal clear that Raschke has his sights on making Duncum pay for his cowardly attack with his spur in Philly.
Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II defeated Baron Mikel Scicluna and Spiros Arion when Wrestling II pinned Arion with the Million Dollar Kneelift in 0:15:22. Rating: *** 1/2 (Mr. Wrestling I and Mr. Wrestling II retained the GCW World Tag Team Titles.)
Baron Mikel Scicluna & Spiros Arion did a lot of great work in the last couple of months to earn a chance at the World Tag Team Titles, but against Mr. Wrestling I & II, they were going to have to put up or shut up. Scicluna showed in Philly that a couple lucky breaks and some well-timed cheating and anyone can win a match, so this title defense being a successful one for I & II was no guarantee. Scicluna & Arion made them work for it, but I & II were just a little better tonight and are still the tag team champions.
Billy Graham defeated Ernie Ladd by disqualification in 0:00:42. Rating: * [Luke Graham interfered against Billy Graham.]
Luke Graham is not want to sit back and pick his spot, as he chose this match to get his hands on his younger brother Billy for costing him the United States Title earlier in the night! Superstar Billy was set to wrestle Ernie Ladd, but it was barely 30 seconds into the match when LUKE was down in the ring and laying into Billy with hard right hands. Billy tried to get away but Luke was all over him like white on rice. Luke picked Billy up and sent him into the ropes, looking to hit the Thumb to the Throat on the rebound, but Billy hooked the ropes and took a powder to the floor. Luke wants to end this one way or another, and that is going to happen on June 9 in MSG. Luke vs. Billy in a Lights Out Bunkhouse Match! No rules, come dressed as you are, unsanctioned fight to the finish. One way or another, this sibling rivalry comes to an end on June 9!
Ivan Koloff defeated Blackjack Lanza by disqualification in 0:18:16. Rating: ** 1/2 (Ivan Koloff retained the GCW World Title.)
Our main event was a tough test for the undefeated World champion as Ivan Koloff put the gold on the line against Blackjack Lanza. The longer Koloff holds the title, the tougher his title defenses seem to get. The legend of the Russian Bear is growing, and being the man to end his winning streak is becoming almost as important as the World Title itself. Lanza brought everything he had to the table, trying to bust Koloff open to make him more vulnerable to the Blackjack Claw. While this is a good strategy on paper, trying to bust open the thick head of Koloff while not getting mauled by the Russian Bear is much easier said than done. Lanza's attempts to bust Koloff open became so extreme that he deliberately got himself disqualified by breaking a wooden spike off of a chair and jabbing Koloff in the head with it. The blood only served to make the Russian Bear angry, who snapped and chased Lanza off. Koloff will have a chance to get a hold of Lanza again at our next show in the recently signed tag team main event.
Card rating: ** 1/2
Match observations:
Summer will be heating up with our return to Madison Square Garden, with a monumental card set to take place!
MAIN EVENT - Ivan Koloff (World champ)/Baron Von Raschke vs. Blackjack Lanza/Bobby Duncum UNITED STATES TITLE - Harley Race (c) vs. Ernie Ladd WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES - Mr. Wrestling I/Mr. Wrestling II (c) vs. Mr. Fuju/Toru Tanaka LIGHTS OUT BUNKHOUSE MATCH - Luke Graham vs. Billy Graham 30-MINUTE TIME LIMIT - Billy Robinson vs. Pedro Morales #1 CONTENDERS MATCH - The Cripplers vs. The Texas Outlaws
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