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Post by vertigo on Jan 8, 2013 16:58:09 GMT -5
Backstory:
The Global Championship Wrestling Board of Directors had always unanimously agreed on the direction of the company, its representatives, and its Champions. That is until 1983 when the decision was made to put the GCW World title on Ric Flair. Longtime Director Howard Beauchamp vehemently disagreed with the decision. In his eyes, Terry Funk should have been GCW's next World Champion. Beauchamp was outnumbered and the decision was made to move forward with Flair as World Champion.
Despite a policy stating that no member of the Board of Directors is to discuss internal affairs with talent, Beauchamp notified Terry Funk directly to inform him that a reign as World Champion would never happen in GCW. Funk confronted Mark Niemiller face-to-face to confirm what Beauchamp had told him. The best answer Niemiller could give Funk was that "it wasn't in the cards right now." Funk immediately gave his notice. Rumors swirled that Funk had already been in negotiations with the National Wrestling Federation when in fact it was Howard Beauchamp putting in the calls on Funk's behalf.
While Funk continued his career in NWF, Beauchamp became notably outspoken on many decisions by the Board. When Ric Flair took a walk in September and almost took GCW's World title with him, Beauchamp could only laugh. After all, he had warned them that Flair was not the right choice for World Champion and he was correct.
For the remainder of 1983 and throughout 1984, Beauchamp continued to disagree with the direction of GCW before finally putting his notice in just before Christmas. During this time no one seemed to notice that Beauchamp had been laying the groundwork for his very own regional wrestling organization. His target territory was the west coast; specifically San Francisco and the Bay Area as its headquarters. And who is at the top of his list for talent? Terry Funk. It didn't take much convincing for Funk to leave the NWF, where he was already growing unhappy.
So Howard Beauchamp, with his sights set on presenting professional wrestling in his vision, started the World Wrestling Association with Terry Funk being his first big acquisition. On February 16, 1985, live from Fresno, California, the WWA will present its very first show. And with the roster the WWA is rumored to have, this regional wrestling company could become a world-wide sensation in no time!
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Post by snabbit888 on Jan 8, 2013 17:06:13 GMT -5
Here we go. It's going to get a whole lot more competitive in the universe.
Glad to have you onboard. Another place for all my talent to go when they quit.
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Post by JoshiQ on Jan 8, 2013 18:10:43 GMT -5
Guess I'm not the new kid on the block anymore. Terry Funk is a good foundation for what should be a fun circuit to read. Really happy to have you be a part of the Universe.
Love the story as to how it all came to be. The Niemillers can only not keep the talent happy, but the people behind the scenes don't seem too happy with them either.
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Post by snabbit888 on Jan 8, 2013 18:23:45 GMT -5
Guess I'm not the new kid on the block anymore. Terry Funk is a good foundation for what should be a fun circuit to read. Really happy to have you be a part of the Universe. Love the story as to how it all came to be. The Niemillers can only not keep the talent happy, but the people behind the scenes don't seem too happy with them either. We're just awful.
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Post by wickedrex1 on Jan 9, 2013 6:23:20 GMT -5
Well, this should be interesting...
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Post by vertigo on Jan 9, 2013 9:47:22 GMT -5
WWA - February 16, 1985 from Selland Arena in Fresno, CA
The Selland Arena is buzzing with anticipation as a new breed of professional wrestling is about to open its doors right here in Fresno, California. Through radio and television promotions, to newspaper ads and street flyers, The World Wrestling Association has promised to bring the best and brightest wrestling stars from across the globe right here to the west coast!
Tito Santana pinned Wayne Farris with the Flying Forearm in 0:11:25. Rating: ** 1/2
The cheers for Tito Santana nearly blew the roof off the Selland Arena as he made his way to the ring! Santana has already made quite a name for himself and many feel that he is on the verge to really breaking out as a major star in the sport. His opponent tonight, Wayne Farris, didn't garner much fan fare as he made his way to the ring shouting rude comments in his thick, southern accent. Both wrestlers understood how important this match was as it not only sets the tone for the rest of the evening but its also the first impression the fans get of the WWA. Santana set the pace early wrestling circles around Farris demonstrating his speed and technique. It wasn't until Farris stuck his thumb in Santana's eye that the momentum swung the other way. Farris really slowed the pace down as he took his time laying in punches and kicks while taunting his opponent and the fans. The fans never once stopped cheering for Santana and this helped Santana fight his way back until he was able to put Farris away with his patented Flying Forearm!
Abdullah the Butcher pinned Bob Armstrong with the Sudanese Elbowdrop in 0:05:32. Rating: * 1/4
"Bullet" Bob Armstrong had his hands full tonight with the ultraviolent Abdullah The Butcher. Both of these men are no strangers to the mat wars as they have clocked in a combined 50 years of wrestling under their belts. However, they have followed very, very different paths in making a name for themselves. Abdullah attacked Armstrong before the opening bell and Armstrong never really had a chance to mount any sort of offense. Abdullah's style isn't pretty and he was threatened with disqualifications on more than one occassion for using chokeholds. Armstrong started a firery comeback with a series of forearms, punches to the midsection, and a solid European uppercut, but Abdullah caught him coming off the ropes with clothesline and followed that up with the Sudanese Elbowdrop for the win.
After the match, Abdullah continued his assault by nearly choking Armstrong unconscious. Just when we thought it couldn't get any worse, The Butcher pulled a fork from his boot! He lunged at Armstrong who was flat on his back and with what little energy Armstrong had, he grabbed Abdullah's forearms, stopping the fork just inches from his face. The struggle lasted for what felt like an eternity before Bob's son, BRAD ARMSTRONG hit the ring! Abdullah was staggered by a couple of dropkicks before stumbling through the ropes to the floor. Abdullah looked more shocked and irritated than hurt. Brad helped his father to his feet as a wide-eyed Abdullah threatened both of them before heading to the back. Brad is eager to get his hands on Abdullah but Bob has warned his son that he isn't ready for a guy like Abdullah. "Bullet" Bob is looking to get revenge for himself in a rematch against The Madman from Sudan.
The Ninja Express (Kendo Nagasaki and Mr. Pogo) defeated Billy Jack Haynes and S.D. Jones when K. Nagasaki pinned S.D. Jones after a power bomb in 0:05:57. Rating: 1/2*
Gary Hart, a villainous looking manager, led The Ninja Express to the ring for our next match. From all accounts this duo from Japan are the first members of Gary Hart International. They looked very impressive as they picked apart S.D. Jones in this tag team match. Billy Jack Haynes, a relative newcomer to pro wrestling, held his own and showed signs of promise as he gave as good as he took from the Ninja Express. When all was said and done, S.D. Jones fell victim to a power bomb and defeat. Haynes helped his partner to the back as Gary Hart celebrated his stables first victory despite the crowd's jeers.
Tiger Mask pinned Rick Rude after a flying cross body press in 0:08:36. Rating: ***
Rick Rude, a man who has adopted the moniker of "Ravishing", had a tall task ahead of him tonight. Tiger Mask is known worldwide as one of the greatest high flyers to ever lace up the wrestling boots. His innovative style has been widely talked about for many, many years and even some fans in Fresno were able to witness him live and in person in 1981 at the LA Supershow, his last match in the states. Tiger Mask did not disappoint as he took to the air multiple times, overwhelming his much younger and unknowing opponent. Rude showed great tenacity and that he has all the tools to be a major player someday but if he's going to pick up victories over men the likes of Tiger Mask he's going to have to put his ego aside. He's good looking and arrogant and the worst part is he knows it. When he felt he had the match well in hand he wouldn't hesitate to strike a pose or gyrate his hips for the ladies in the ringside seats. One gyration too many and he was caught out of nowhere with a flying cross body press for the win!
Jake Roberts pinned Marty Jannetty with the DDT in 0:08:02. Rating: ** 1/2
Jake "The Snake" Roberts is quite possibly the most methodical wrestler out there today. He always seems two steps ahead of his opponent at all times. Roberts knows how to get into his opponent's head even before the opening bell. His opponent tonight was rookie Marty Jannetty and as Roberts slithered his way into the ring you could see a look of uncertainty on face of Jannetty. Roberts picked Jannetty apart rather easily, almost toying with him throughout the match. Roberts begged Jannetty to show some life almost as if he enjoyed prolonging the inevitable. And the inevitable was the dangerous DDT, a move Jake Roberts innovated. Many duplicate the move but no one's DDT is as certain to end a match any quicker than his.
Hector Guerrero pinned King Tonga after a gutwrench suplex in 0:12:08. Rating: * 1/2
Hector Guerrero has had a taste of the big time in past, not to mention being quite popular in lucha libre in Mexico. His popularity looks to continue here in WWA as he received a resounding ovation upon arrival. His opponent tonight comes from the South Pacific and he's already built up a reputation for being very tough and aggressive in the ring. King Tonga proved his reputation precedes him as his aggressive style and martial arts strikes were on full display tonight. Guerrero had to reach deep down to overcome Tonga. With Tonga's aggressive start the only way he was going to beat Tonga was to let him punch himself out and wear him down. In the end, Guerrero had sunk in a deep armbar but miraculously Tonga powered out of it. Tonga may have expended his last bit of energy in escaping though and Guerrero was able to capitalize with a gutwrench suplex for the win.
INTRODUCING THE WWA HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE:
After a brief intermission a podium was set up in the ring. Officials carried out a glass case and set it up on the podium. A championship belt was on display inside of the case. Then out came a man in a suit who introduced himself as Howard Beauchamp, owner and promoter of the World Wrestling Association. He thanked everyone in attendance and hoped they were having a great time. He promised to promote excellent wrestling in the area for a long time and then announced that next month, on March 16, WWA makes its debut in San Francisco at a building that's hosted historic wrestling in the past… the Cow Palace! Inside the glass case, he announces, is the WWA Heavyweight Title and next month we will crown our very first Champion in an 8-man single elimination tournament!
Beauchamp says that already entered in the tournament are Bill Eadie, Big John Studd, Tito Santana, and Hector Guerrero! That's not all! Making his WWA debut next week, a legend known the world over… Mil Mascaras! As he makes that announcement Mil Mascaras himself comes to the ring to a huge ovation. He climbs in the ring and starts to speak before being interrupted by a commotion by the curtain. Out walked Terry Funk who received a mix reaction. He's hollering about something and climbs into the ring. He starts shouting into the microphone at Beauchamp that he's in tonight's main event match but he's not even announced for a spot in the tournament! Beauchamp informs him that not all spots have been filled yet and he still has a good chance of getting in. He then starts shouting something about Mil Mascaras not even wrestling tonight but getting a spot. Mil looks toward the fans as if to say what's this guys problem? But he shouldn't have turned his back because Funk leveled him across the shoulders sending him careening to the floor. Funk turned his attention towards the glass case and using he branding iron, shattered the case! Howard Beauchamp dropped the microphone and got the hell out of the ring as Terry Funk reached in and pulled the WWA Heavyweight Championship from the broken glass. He held it high above his head as the fans boo'd him mercilessly! Then, as quick as lighting, Mil Mascaras ascended the top rope and came crashing down onto Funk with his signature cross body block! Funk then rolled out of the ring fuming, kicking the steel railings and chairs nearby. These two will have an opportunity to settle their differences next month in San Francisco when they face each other in the opening round of the tournament!
Ray Stevens pinned Ron Garvin with the Bombs Away Kneedrop in 0:10:19. Rating: ** 3/4
Ray Stevens is no spring chicken but that doesn't mean he still can't go. The San Francisco native didn't elicite much cheers tonight despite being very close to his hometown. He's made a living off being a true bad guy in the sport of wrestling and at times, seriously injuring his foes. They don't call him "The Crippler" for nothing. Ron Garvin has an interesting nickname as well - "The Hands of Stone". When he lays one of those right hands across your chin it's lights out, forget about it. Garvin has always been a guy who was just one win or two away from taking it to the next level and a victory over Ray Stevens on WWA's debut show could have been that win. It wasn't to be however. As Ray Stevens pulled himself to his feet in the corner following a Garvin bodyslam, Garvin charged. Stevens side-stepped and Garvin went shoulder first through the ropes right into the steel ring post. Knocked silly, Garvin stumbled backwards and fell leaving him wide open for the Bombs Away Kneedrop! Stevens wins the match but barely.
The House of Humperdink (Big John Studd and Bill Eadie) defeated The Fantastics (Bobby Fulton and Tommy Rogers) when Eadie made Fulton submit to an armbar submission in 0:11:41. Rating: ** 1/2
Sir Oliver Humperdink came to the ring alone before the next match and grabbed a microphone. He introduced himself to the fans who already have taken a disliking to him, especially after demeaning all of those in attendance. He said they will soon be able to call him the Manager of Champions because he has signed the biggest names in the WWA to his army, The House of Humperdink. He called his men Superstars of the sport. He then introduced Bill "the Ax" Eadie and Big John Studd!
The Fantastics were the clear underdogs in this match, which made the fans cheer for them even more. They're smaller and have less experience than the House of Humperdink but they are definitely courageous. They never once stopped coming at Eadie & Studd and didn't seem intimidated for a second. Unfortunately, tonight wasn't their night. The House zero'd in on Fulton's arm and never let up. Fulton kicked out of plenty of pin attempts but once Eadie cinched in an armbar Fulton had no choice but to submit. As of now The House of Humperdink looks like they could dominate the ranks of WWA.
Terry Funk defeated Rocky Johnson by countout in 0:08:41. Rating: 3/4*
Terry Funk was already in a sour mood as he made his way to the ring for tonight's main event. Not only did Mil Mascaras make him look like a fool but he will have to face the Mexican legend in the opening round of the Heavyweight Title tournament next month. But he has some solid competition tonight in the form of "Soulman" Rocky Johnson! Funk rushed Johnson as he removed his ring jacket and knocked him through the ropes. Right then we knew we were going to have a wild match. A back and forth brawl around ringside ended after Rocky landed a series of quick left-handed jabs before dropping Funk with a big right haymaker. Johnson rolled back in the ring where he really got the crowd pumped up. Funk was a little hesitant now. After some encouragement from the crowd, Rocky had enough of Funk's stalling and went out after him. Funk ran halfway around the ring before sliding back in. Rocky slid in but Funk caught him with an elbow flush to the back as he entered. Funk then focused on the leg of Rocky. Johnson was resiliant but Funk really grinded away at his leg softening it up for the Spinning Toe Hold. Johnson was able to get to the ropes the first time Funk applied the hold, and the second time Rocky caught Funk in a small package for a near fall. Funk was unwavering in his attempts and the third time he tried for the hold, Rocky used his good leg and foot to shove Funk straight the ropes and back to the floor. Funk regained his bearings, reached into the ring, and dragged Rocky out. A fight ensued on the floor as the referee was getting close to counting both men out. Rocky had staggered Funk enough to try to climb in the ring but as he stepped up, Funk chop blocked his leg! Johnson was in serious pain now on the floor while Funk rolled in the ring beat the 10 count! Terry Funk has won by way of countout! The fans showered Funk with boos but Funk egged them on. He wanted to really get under this crowd's skin so he went back out and threw Johnson in the ring. Johnson pulled himself up in the corner while Funk paintbrushed his face with slaps. This only got the Soulman fired up and he started tagging Funk with rights and lefts backing him up to the other side of the ring before clotheslining him hard over the ropes! Funk retreated shouting all kind of threats and obscenities in every direction.
Card Rating: **
March 16, 1985 - COW PALACE - San Francisco, CA
WWA HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE TOURNAMENT - Mil Mascaras, Terry Funk, Tito Santana, Hector Guerrero, Bill Eadie, Big John Studd, Rocky Johnson, and Ray Stevens Abdullah The Butcher vs. "Bullet" Bob Armstrong
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Post by wickedrex1 on Jan 9, 2013 11:06:11 GMT -5
Good first card. Lots of big names signed. Looks like Funk's wasting no time to make as many enemies as possible.
It's touching that Brad Armstrong came out to save his "Pops", but he's lucky he doesn't have to step into the ring with the "Madman from Sudan".
A young Rick Rude. Interesting. I can't wait to see what you do with him.
How can you go wrong with Oliver Humperdink!?
Looking forward to the tournament. I kinda see neither Funk nor Mascaras really caring about the belt at this point, because they will both be out for revenge.
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Post by JoshiQ on Jan 9, 2013 11:36:00 GMT -5
Here we go!
Great to see Tito start up a serious singles career. He has mostly been in the tag division since entering the Universe, but he needs some time in singles to cement his legacy. Wayne Ferris should be a fun addition. I wonder how long it will take him to pick up the guitar?
Bob Armstrong! The Armstrongs are a family that needed to finally get some air time. I think Brad Armstrong is going to have a tough time with Abdullah, but with his father by his side, he at least should get some good advice.
Ninja Express shows the first of your tag division. I like pairing them up with Gary Hart. Hart was always a good manager for international talent. I was never a big fan of Billy Jack Haynes, but he had the look and was massively over with the fans. I can see big things ahead for him once he gets some experience. His team with SD probably won't last long.
Tough loss for Rick Rude. He could have had the match won but lost due to his arrogant ways. Guys like Tiger Mask have always been hard for me to book. Looking forward to seeing what you do with him.
And there he is. I was wondering when he'd debut, and we now have him! Marty Jannetty in pre-Rocker form should be noted, but I'm all about Roberts. I take it he hasn't started to bring the snake out with him yet?
Hector would be way over in California. Took a second to remember that Haku was King Tonga first. Can't wait to see what you do with him as well. Big fan of Tonga. You have an interesting setting for your roster. Lucha stars are going to get massively over. I wonder if they will be the guys to get the big pushes?
Hot segment between Funk and Mascaras. Probably a precursor of the finals for the World Title. I think Funk has a good shot at finally getting the title that has eluded him for so long. Anyways, really good segment.
I had a hard time booking Garvin in the NWF. Hope you have better luck. I already like the way you write him more. Slightly surprised to see Stevens go over him, but he's no weakling.
The team of Eadie and Studd is very impressive. They immediately become a threat to the tag division. Looks like you have a couple of strong heel teams. Besides the Fantastics, I wonder how you will fill the face side of things? Submitting to an armbar is rather embarrassing, but when it is applied by a guy the size of Eadie it is understandable.
A really hot main event to end the show. Don't normally like countouts/DQs to end a show, but they have a place in wrestling. As long as they aren't used that often they don't bother me all that much. Plus Johnson clearing the ring afterwards gives him some momentum as well going into the tournament.
This really felt like a house show for the time period as I read it. It was a great show that has me waiting for more. Bravo, Vertigo.
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Post by murphy42782 on Jan 9, 2013 12:02:10 GMT -5
Pumped theres gonna be a "third wheel" so to speak. having a big three just feels so right. Only a matter of time before wwa is at the same level. Good card overall. Hope Funk gets his title, but something tells me it wont be right away. No idea who the favorite is at this point if not him though. Like your roster and hope shawn michaels isnt far behind jannetty.
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Post by snabbit888 on Jan 9, 2013 15:19:05 GMT -5
And here we go! A viable third promotion in this universe. Any reason in particular for changing Ferris to Farris? Is this a Rotundo/Rotunda deal? Either way, the match was all about Tito. Tito was someone that would probably be my IC champ by now had he re-signed with me. I've even tried rehiring him a couple times, so glad to see him getting another go with WWA. I don't think he's going to get a long wrestling run, but glad to see Bob Armstrong get some universe love. And really nice to see Abdullah back. Hell, I can't even remember when I last used him. The 60s maybe? And I think he was on the Supershow (kudos to you for referencing that with Tiger Mask later, by the way). Brad Armstrong should get a better push in this universe than in real life. But I think he'll be bleeding at the hands of Abdullah soon. I know Gary Hart was a big deal, but I'm not super familiar with his work, so I'm glad you're bringing him in. Ninja Express look to be solid. How long before they start to get hardcore? Tiger Mask/Rude is an interesting matchup. Tiger Mask is tough to book, if you ask me, but so far, so good. Rude might need a manager to keep him focused - Humperdink, perhaps? Roberts is going to be a HUGE deal. I'm very interested to see what you do with him to get the ball rolling on his career. He's a great character, but a little intimidating to take on. A bit surprised to see Tonga get beat so cleanly, but that's fine. Hector was a big star in California, so he'd be very over at this point. Great segment with the World Title. Immediately sets up Funk as the top heel, and with Mascaras' history, he may not be around long, but you should get some hot main events out of him in the meantime. Very happy to see Ray Stevens get a little love. His career is almost over, but he is awesome. In hindsight, I wish I had gotten him a good singles title reign, but he is 1/2 of my most successful tag team ever, so he did okay for himself. Thought Garvin would win the match though, but no complaints. I kind of dislike Garvin. Studd/Eadie as a team is beastly. They're going to be a hard team to slow down. They're my early pick for first tag team champs, but admittedly, I need to see what the rest of the division will look like. Great main event. Countout finishes for a main event generally bug me, but this one was well done because Johnson got his heat back, and Terry Funk is entertaining enough to not make anyone go home unhappy. A great first outing. Very happy to have to on board. This is going to be a lot of fun.
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Post by vertigo on Jan 9, 2013 15:43:53 GMT -5
Thanks for the feedback guys!
I'm happy everyone is considering my locale when reading the results. I'm not going to be bringing in a ton of lucha guys but guys like Hector Guerrero or Tito Santana are huge in company trying to make a name for itself on the west coast.
Even Ray Stevens - San Fran actually has a Ray Stevens day honoring him... but that doesn't happen until 1995.
I thought it was Ferris too, but his real name is Farris, and all indications from wikipedia and youtube indicate it was Farris. So Farris it is.
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Post by snabbit888 on Jan 9, 2013 15:51:46 GMT -5
I know the real name is Farris, but I thought he wrestled as Ferris. Ah well, it won't be overly wrong before he's HTM anyway, so, no biggie.
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 9, 2013 16:30:35 GMT -5
Nice start and quite an impressive roster for the "third wheel"
A young Marty Jannetty is here. Is a young Shawn Michaels close behind?
I love Abdullah, looks like he'll be carving up the Armstrongs for a bit
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Post by rey619 on Jan 10, 2013 2:44:31 GMT -5
And we have a third promotion in the Universe! Awesome! I didn't know Farris was Honky Tonk Man. Learned something new today as well. Check. Another father and son duo in the Universe. Picking a fight with the Butcher was probably not the wisest idea. I like it that you have brought in some Japanese and Mexican guys, it makes perfect sense for a So-Cal based promotion. Really liked the segment where Funk broke the case and took the belt. Funk looks even more heelish here than in his last NWF-run, where he was more of an edgy face. Ray Stevens is still at it, eh? Looks like he's about to revive his career here, good win! You've scored big with Studd. He fell a little to the wayside in NWF eventually, but we all know it's difficult to book such big guys for a prolonged period of time. Good luck! The main event was probably better than its star rating, you always get low ratings at the start of new promotions. Doesn't look like things are over between Funk and Johnson, but doesn't that leave Funk with two to feud with? A good start, your writing style is similar to Ryan's and Josh's and the card format is also the same, so I think you'll fit right into the Universe
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Post by murphy42782 on Jan 11, 2013 19:10:23 GMT -5
Also will there be a wiki page for wwa similar to gcw and nwf pages?
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Post by vertigo on Jan 11, 2013 23:04:33 GMT -5
I guess it wouldn't officially be a part of the Universe without a wiki, huh? wwa.wikidot.com/
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Post by JoshiQ on Jan 11, 2013 23:36:54 GMT -5
Very nice, Vertigo. Funny how we all came up with the same format.
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Post by hammerfist on Jan 21, 2013 17:56:39 GMT -5
We have a third fed in the Universe. Let's get to commenting. Great, the Niemillers' magic touch in ticking off associates continues. Tito is a great guy to build around. If he sticks, you should have a solid upper card guy for the rest of the decade. Farris could also be a good roster performer. Will he become Honky at some point remains to be seen. Abby!! Potential feud with the Armstrongs. This looks promising. Gary Hart and the Ninja Express. I know of Pogo and Nagasaki and Gary Hart is a great manager for them. Haynes could be a solid hand and of course, the legendary SD Jones does what he does so well. Tiger Mask and Rude is a style mismatch but good match. Tiger Mask is a tricky guy to handle, but I think the key is finding someone for him to interact off (either as a rival or a partner). Jake Roberts has arrived and I await to see how sinister he can get. Also good to see Jannetty. I imagine Michaels might pop up at some point, but for now I think it'll be Jannetty solo. Did you know that he and Tommy Rogers used to a tag team known as the Uptown Boys? Hector Guerrero would definitely be very over in California. He's a great guy to help build your potential main eventers. King Tonga also has potential. Very good segment to establish the tournament, Mascaras and Funk. I can see these two feuding with or without the title. Stevens is another guy you can use to establish your main eventers. Ron Garvin is someone that can fill different roles. I think the House of Humperdink is the strongest and scariest force so far in the WWA. These guys could really run rampant over the other wrestlers. Solid team in the Fantastics, they definitely enhance your tag scene. Funk vs. Soulman is a good main event for your first show. That's two guys Funk has angered on his first night. I have a guess as to who's walking away with the title. Let me know if it's okay to make the guess. Overall, you have the base for a potentially great circuit. I'll be watching to see how it turns out.
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Post by vertigo on Jan 21, 2013 21:30:15 GMT -5
Welcome hammerfist and thank you for the feedback. I was not aware of the Uptown Boys. That's an interesting duo.
By all means, predict away!
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Post by hammerfist on Jan 22, 2013 11:27:44 GMT -5
All right, I have a feeling that it'll be Rocky Johnson winning the title. If I get this right, I'll try some lotto tickets.
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Post by vertigo on Jan 29, 2013 13:29:27 GMT -5
WWA - March 16, 1985 from The Cow Palace in San Francisco, CA
For the first time in years, professional wrestling returns to The Cow Palace! Tonight, WWA crowns its first Heavyweight Champion in an 8-Man single elimination tournament!
The first match of the Quarterfinals kicks off this historical night. Sir Oliver Humperdink accompanied the largest man in WWA, Big John Studd, to the ring. Studd has to be the odds-on-favorite to win here tonight due to his sheer size and power. His opponent received a great ovation, Hector Guerrero!
[Quarterfinals Match] Big John Studd pinned Hector Guerrero with the Backbreaker in 0:11:28. Rating: * [Sir Oliver Humperdink interfered against Hector Guerrero.]
Guerrero can't match power with Studd but no one ever questioned his heart and determination. It was an uphill battle for the feisty latino but the fans were behind him all the way. When Studd was able to catch him, the pace of the entire match really slowed down. There was nothing technical about Studd's offense as he just clubbed away at Hector's back. In one last burst of energy, Hector fought his way out of the corner with rights and lefts staggering the giant. Hector got some momentum off the ropes and attempted a cross body block but Studd easily caught him and nearly broke Hector in half over his knee with the Backbreaker. Studd picks up the win and looks dominate in the process.
To the fans disdain, Sir Oliver Humperdink returned for our next match as he accompanied the other representative of the House of Humperdink, Bill "the Ax" Eadie. Humperdink grabbed the microphone upon entering the ring and explained to the crowd that Tito Santana was not competing tonight. Santana apparently had a personal matter to tend to at home in Mexico but Humperdink claimed Santana was just terrified of Eadie. Humperdink went on to complain that rather than Eadie receiving a bye in the tournament, a new wrestler was given Santana's spot. Eadie chimed in saying that Santana was lucky he didn't show up and that he feels sorry for his replacement having to match up against "The Ax" tonight! A man by the name of Steve Williams accepted the opening. Williams was an All-American football player out of the University of Oklahoma who also earned the nickname "Dr. Death." Williams may only have a few years of professional wrestling under his belt but he's already gained small recognition nationwide and now he's here in WWA.
[Quarterfinals Match] Steve Williams defeated Bill Eadie by disqualification in 0:03:46. Rating: 3/4* [Sir Oliver Humperdink interfered against Steve Williams.] (Tito Santana no-showed.)
Eadie & Humperdink went from arrogant to angry upon Williams arrival. Completely thrown off his game from the start, Eadie floundered a bit looking for some kind of opening to get an advantage on Williams. He never could. Williams defended all of Eadie's attacks and simply out-wrestled Eadie for three and half minutes. Eadie's frustration boiled over. He left the ring and came back with the timekeeper's bell! Referee Bill Alfonso attempted to stop him but Eadie just shoved him to the ground. Alfonso immediately disqualified Eadie who still charged Williams. Williams blocked the shot, grabbed the bell, and tossed it back out of the ring before sending Eadie to the floor with a clothesline over the ropes! Eadie & Humperdink retreated to the locker room voicing their frustration the entire way. Williams was instantly a fan favorite and he soaked it in before heading to the back to prepare for his next match.
Mr. Pogo headed to the ring for our next match accompanied by his tag team partner, Kendo Nagasaki, and their manager Gary Hart. His opponent tonight also comes from Japan, the exciting Tiger Mask!
[Non-Tournament Match] Tiger Mask pinned Mr. Pogo after a flying cross body press in 0:09:40. Rating: ***
Kendo Nagasaki really wanted to get involved in this match but Gary Hart wouldn't allow it. Each time Kendo lunged toward the ring Hart put the Kendo stick in front of him. Hart appeared to be scouting Tiger Mask. That's exactly what he was doing because as soon as Tiger Mask picked up the win, Gary Hart climbed into the ring and approached him with microphone in hand. Hart told Tiger Mask he was very impressed with his skills and that he would like to make Tiger Mask a member of Gary Hart International. The fans certainly didn't want Tiger Mask to accept Hart's offer. Gary Hart looked irritated by the boos and he told Tiger Mask not to listen to the fans. He told Tiger Mask that he's the top manager of international talent in the entire country and that if he wants reach bigger heights in the U.S.A. then he should join his stable. Tiger Mask shook his head no and turned to leave but Hart grabbed his shoulder. Tiger turned around and Hart slapped him across the face saying no one turns their back on Gary Hart. Tiger Mask shoved Hart onto his backside and that's when Kendo & Pogo jumped on Tiger Mask. They started pummeling him before MIL MASCARAS hit the ring throwing haymakers and clearing the ring. Hart vowed revenge as he and his men retreated.
Ray Stevens may be wrestling in his own backyard here in San Francisco but the fans certainly don't want him representing them. He reciprocated the boos by shouting insults at anyone within earshot. "Soulman" Rocky Johnson got a great response as he came to the ring. He has a bit of extra support on his left knee most likely from Terry Funk's offense last month in Fresno during their match.
[Quarterfinals Match] Rocky Johnson pinned Ray Stevens with the Johnson Shuffle in 0:11:57. Rating: *** 1/2
Johnson's juking and jiving got under the skin of Stevens very quickly. And while Johnson was enjoying himself entertaining the fans, he was also here tonight to win a Championship. Stevens was able to get Johnson off his feet and really go to work on the left leg. The extra support Johnson had on his knee was like a target for Stevens. In the end, Stevens ascended to the second rope with a prone Johnson laying on the mat. He pulled his knee pad down as if he were going to hit his Bombs Away kneedrop from the second rope but Johnson moved. Stevens staggered to his feet and Johnson nailed him with the Johnson Shuffle for the win! Johnson was favoring his knee as he made his way to the dressing room area.
Up next, Terry Funk came to the ring to a deafening arena of boos. He didn't seem to mind though as he did a few laps around the ring to antagonize the fans. Then Mil Mascaras made his grand entrance and nearly blew the roof off the building!
[Quarterfinals Match] Terry Funk defeated Mil Mascaras by countout in 0:12:02. Rating: * 3/4 [Kendo Nagasaki interfered against Mil Mascaras.]
Funk and Mascaras went hold for hold in opening minutes of the match before Mascaras started to get the upper hand with a variety of counters and submissions. Funk couldn't find an answer for Mascaras other than grabbing a handful of tights and using leverage to yank him through the ropes. It only rattled the luchadore and he didn't appear to be in much danger of being counted out. That was until Kendo Nagasaki ran to ringside with his kendo stick in hand. Funk caught a glimpse of Nagasaki and grabbed the referee's attention. As Mascaras started to reenter the ring Nagasaki drilled him across the back with kendo stick! Mascaras crumbled to the floor as Funk let the referee go. Nagasaki had to run as fast as he could back to the dressing room to avoid being hit by objects thrown by the fans. The referee eventually counted out Mascaras. The fans and Mascaras protested but not too long as Mascaras took off for the dressing room most likely looking for Nagasaki or any other member of Gary Hart International.
Our next match is a Special Attraction 6-Man-Tag Team Match! Out first, was the trio of King Tonga, Wayne Farris, and "Ravishing" Rick Rude. Tonga looked all business and Farris took a few moments to jaw-jack with some fans in the first row. Rude took his sweet time getting to the ring. He only finally entered the ring when The Fantastics and Ron Garvin made their entrance. "Hands of Stone" Garvin looked like he was ready to take on all three by himself! Meanwhile The Fantastics made sure to high-five every willing fan within reach.
[Special Attraction Match] The Fantastics (Bobby Fulton and Tommy Rogers) and Ron Garvin defeated King Tonga, Rick Rude and Wayne Farris when T. Rogers defeated Farris via pinfall in 0:14:00. Rating: ** 1/2
There were a lot of different personalities in this match, especially on the team of Tonga, Farris, and Rude. They didn't have much of a strategy and they were slow to get any momentum going. The Fantastics had a clear advantage here as they made quick tags in and out. Even Garvin got into a bit of a rhythm with the quick tags but he didn't come in the ring grabbing holds. Garvin came in slugging away just brutalizing his opponents with stiff strikes. Finally, Rude, Farris, and Tonga regrouped outside of the ring. With Garvin the legal man, Tonga and Farris rushed the ring. The referee forced Farris out and while Garvin was busy with Tonga, Rude nailed him with a knee to the lower back. Now the bad guys were taking over! They continued to work over Garvin's back trying to force him into submission. That's a lot easier said than done as Garvin could possibly be the toughest man in WWA. Rude locked on a camel clutch but Garvin, showing tremendous power and guts, stood all the way up with Rude still on his back and rushed him backwards into the corner breaking the hold. Garvin crawled to make the tag and Fulton came in on fire. Rude managed to tag Farris who was greeted with a pair of clotheslines from Fulton. Fulton then dropkicked Rude & Tonga off the ring apron before tagging in Tommy Rogers. They sent him into the ropes and hit a double dropkick which proved to be enough for Rogers to pin Farris!
Next, our tournament continues with Semifinals action! Out first, accompanied by Sir Oliver Humperdink… Big John Studd! As expected Studd didn't win any fans over with his first round victory over Hector Guerrero. His opponent, "Dr. Death" Steve Williams! Williams on the other hand seems to have picked up an enormous amount of fans following his victory over Bill Eadie earlier tonight!
[Semifinals Match] Steve Williams pinned Big John Studd with the flying shoulderblock in 0:07:15. Rating: * 3/4
We weren't long into this match before Bill Eadie joined Humperdink at ringside. Eadie was still fuming about losing to Williams! Williams may have had a slight power advantage over Eadie but not over Studd. Studd dominated this match from the opening bell. Humperdink made it clear that he and his guys were sending Williams a message and that was to never get in the path of the House of Humperdink. Williams would throw some desperation punches to the midsection of Studd but nothing that had any major effects. Humperdink had seen enough and instructed Studd to finish off Williams. Eadie, too, signaled for Studd to "break him in half!" Studd picked up Williams for the Backbreaker, but Williams managed to slip behind Studd and stagger backwards into a corner. Studd charged, but Williams moved! Williams, way more agile than anyone expected, quickly climbed to the top rope and came soaring off with a flying shoulderblock knocking Studd off his feet!! Williams covered him and got the 1..2..3! Williams has upset Studd! Almost immediately Eadie jumped into the ring and started putting the boots to Williams. Studd soon joined in! Once again Humperdink instructed Studd to give Williams the Backbreaker and Studd did it not once, but twice! Williams was barely moving as the House of Humperdink left ringside pleased with what they had done.
Continuing on with the tournament, Terry Funk made his way to the ring. After going 12 minutes earlier with Mil Mascaras he looks slightly fatigued but not too tired to shout at the fans who were throwing taunts in his direction. "Soulman" Rocky Johnson makes his way to the ring and he looks to be in much worse shape than Terry Funk. Johnson is clearly favoring his left leg after his bout with Ray Stevens.
[Semifinals Match] Terry Funk made Rocky Johnson submit to the Spinning Toe Hold in 0:16:11. Rating: ***
Last month in Fresno these two headlined in a hard hitting match that saw Funk get his hand raised via countout. In that match Funk did some damage to Johnson's leg. And tonight Johnson's leg took even more punishment from Ray Stevens. His speed and strength were heavily impaired but his toughness was at all time high. Despite Funk's best efforts Johnson kept him away from his leg. Then, on a routine up-and-under counter from Johnson, his knee gave out. Funk capitalized immediately and aggressively! At one point Funk dragged Johnson to the corner of the ring and slammed his leg into the ring post! Johnson fought as long as he could but in the end when Funk locked in the Spinning Toe Hold, Johnson reluctantly had to submit.
Our next match is a grudge match and out first is the frightening Abdullah The Butcher! Fans in attendance actually look mortified at the sight of this man. His opponent is gritty veteran of the squared circle, "Bullet" Bob Armstrong! Bob is accompanied to the ring by his son, Brad Armstrong, who last month saved his dad from possible permanent damage at the hands of The Butcher.
[Grudge Match] Abdullah the Butcher and Bob Armstrong battled to a double countout in 0:03:48. Rating: ** 1/4
"Bullet" Bob had a different approach for Abdullah this time around. He didn't try to pace himself or try to beat Abdullah with wrestling holds. No, this time, he came out with guns blazing! The fists were flying right from the get go! Abdullah tried to slow him down with chokeholds but he was having none of it. The fans were solidly behind him and he looked to gain revenge. Even when the action spilled to the floor he didn't let up. The referee threatened to have them counted out if they didn't return to the ring but both men were oblivious to it. And yes, they were both counted out effectively ending the match. But the sound of the bell didn't stop the fight. The battle raged on at ringside and it looked like we were going to need some major assistance from officials to seperate these two men. That is until Abdullah reached into his boot and pulled out a fork! As Abdullah winded back, Brad Armstrong grabbed his wrist and yanked the fork from his hand! Abdullah's eyes widened as Brad threatened to use it on him! This is when officials and other wrestlers jumped into the mix and seperated everyone. "Bullet" Bob was seen taking the fork from his son and throwing it to the ground. He lectured Brad that the Armstrong's don't have to stoop to that level as they walked to the back.
The fans had little time to settle in from that wild brawl because it was already time for our Main Event! The very first WWA Heavyweight Champion was about to be decided. Out first was the loud and obnoxious Terry Funk. He wasn't as animated as normal but that's likely due to his matches earlier with Mil Mascaras and Rocky Johnson. Then "Dr. Death" Steve Williams came to the ring. He looked to be in terrible condition after the beating he received at the hands of the House of Humperdink. No matter, he was walking to the ring with a purpose and that was to become the WWA Heavyweight Champion in his first night with the company!
[Finals Match for the vacant WWA Heavyweight Title] Terry Funk pinned Steve Williams with a piledriver in 0:07:55. Rating: ** 1/2 (Terry Funk won the WWA Heavyweight Title.)
Williams was obviously worse off than Funk when this match started but Williams showed a ton of heart and determination. Funk cautiously avoided Williams at the start of the match, peppering him with left jabs whenever he could. Throughout the night Williams has shown that he is a great mat wrestler and Funk did not want to find himself on the receiving end of any slams. Which is why, after frustrating Williams with jabs, he did not see a gigantic clothesline coming! Funk looked like he had just been hit by a car as the clothesline sent him on the back of his head and bouncing out of the ring. Williams didn't give Funk any time to recuperate as he went out to the floor after him. Williams showed that he could brawl with the best of them and it wasn't long before Funk was bleeding from his head. Funk looked lost as he swung wildly at Williams who rolled him back in the ring to finish him off. He scooped Funk up on his shoulders for a powerslam, but Funk reached out a grabbed the top rope halting Williams momentum. Williams tried to rip Funk away but he had a death grip on the rope. So instead, Williams just dumped Funk back out to the floor! Williams was in complete control of the match and this drew Sir Oliver Humperdink out from the locker room. He made his way down the aisle but Dr. Death caught sight of him as did referee Eddie Gersh. Williams shouted threats at Humperdink while Gersh attempted to order him away from ringside. Williams then reached out to pull Funk back in the ring but from nowhere Funk swung backwards with his BRANDING IRON hitting Williams square across the top of the head! Williams fell backwards, but he staggered back up to his feet. Funk couldn't believe Williams was still standing! The fans couldn't either but they cheered him on! Williams was up, but he was dazed. Humperdink saw Funk was back in control and retreated allowing Gersh to turn his attention back towards the match. Funk, bloody and woozy, acted as quickly as he could. He rolled back in the ring, stuffed Williams, and dropped him on his head with a piledriver! Funk covered, Gersh counted, and with that, TERRY FUNK IS YOUR NEW WWA HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION!!
Terry Funk ripped the Heavyweight title from the hands of Eddie Gersh and held it up as the fans boo'd. He nearly fell out of the ring as the blood continued to run down his face and chest. Barely, he was able to walk out of the ring on his own. Meanwhile, Steve Williams needed assistance from a couple officials to get to his feet but he once he was up he was somehow able to walk to the dressing room on his own power.
Card Rating: **1/2
April 13, 1985 - ARCO ARENA - Sacramento, CA
WWA HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE - Terry Funk © vs. "Dr. Death" Steve Williams No Countouts - Abdullah The Butcher vs. "Bullet" Bob Armstrong The Ninja Express vs. Mil Mascaras & Tiger Mask
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Post by snabbit888 on Jan 29, 2013 13:57:37 GMT -5
Woo! Hey, you get to post again, vertigo. And we're crowning a World champion! Hector Guerrero did what he could, but let's face it - he just didn't have enough firepower to stop Big John Studd. Depending on the draw, Studd could win this whole thing. And more Humperdink right away. Sounds like Tito no-showed, which sucks. He is probably someone you're going to push hard, so hopefully this doesn't derail him too much. Dr. Death makes his debut, and that's a great way to do it. Not only is he moving forward in the tournament, but he got himself over huge by thwarting Humperdink and Eadie. I imagine he's also made himself an enemy right out of the gate too. Shocked to see Pogo get *** in a match, but when your opponent is Tiger Mask, that will happen. Tiger Mask turns down Gary Hart, as an exciting high-flyer should, and also got himself killed for it before Mascaras makes the save. I predict a tag match where Tiger Mask does all the heavy lifting and Mascaras scoops in to get the pin like the glory hound he is. Rocky Johnson gets the win over Stevens, but his knee took a lot of damage in the process. That surely will cause him a lot of grief in the semis. Would have liked to see Funk just beat Mascaras, but as we've established, behind-the-scenes Mascaras is a dick. The important thing is, Hart gets a little revenge and Funk is in the semis. A fun 6-man tag that really established the Fantastics as a legit team. I also like how you write up these matches kind of like it's an old mark magazine. It's a nice touch. Big upset for Dr. Death! He's getting a damn big push to start off for a rookie. He didn't look like much of a winner after though. It's going to be really hard for him to win a third match after that beatdown. Rocky held on a lot longer than I thought he would, but that match was never much in question. Funk is looking to be in prime position to be the top dog of WWA. There's some fire from Brad Armstrong. I was popping for him to use that fork on Abdullah and give him some of his own medicine. I don't think these brawls are over by any stretch. Damn good main event that you built some great drama to. Funk is finally the man, and even if it's not a World Title, it's still the most important regional title in the universe. Excellent angle, and you have made Williams a star in WWA already. Kudos on a great tournament.
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 29, 2013 16:50:43 GMT -5
Funk winning the title was pretty predictable, but necessary going off of how this circuit came to be. This tournament though really established Williams as a main eventer and a future star.
Nice feud going on between the Armstrongs and Abdullah. Interesting bit where Bob kept Brad from using the fork. Wonder if some tension will build up between the two over how to fight him.
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Post by JoshiQ on Jan 29, 2013 23:42:42 GMT -5
Yes! It's time for some hot WWA action!
Glad Studd went over, but you didn't totally squash Hector. Studd's a pretty big name at this point so it makes perfect sense he'd head into the semifinals.
And your first no-show. Sucks because Tito could have won the whole thing. Dr. Death making his debut was a nice replacement.
Pretty big win for Tiger Mask. I like the bit with Hart asking Tiger to join him, getting turned down, and having his men swarm. Classic booking right there. Mascaras siding with Tiger Mask should be fun.
Good win for Johnson, but favoring the knee can only lead to bad things in the rest of the tournament.
I didn't know how you'd get Mascaras out of the tournament, but a countout was as good as any other choice. Funk could go all the way in this thing.
Haku, Rude, and the Honnky Tonk Man have to win for the most bizarre trio I've ever seen. Garvin and the Fantastics winning was the right choice as they make far more sense. They also can remain friends going into the rest of the year.
Big, big, big win for Williams! Loved the ending as it came off as sort of flukish but not really. Keeps Studd strong while letting Williams pick up the win. Looks like he has his first feud with Humperdink's men, and unfortunately for him, those Backbreakers are probably going to cost him the finals.
Johnson put up one hell of a fight, but there was no way he was getting past Funk with a bad leg.
Poor Bob. He is behind the times. You may not need to resort to stabbing someone with a fork, but it is fun! No problem with the double countout to continue the feud between the Armstrongs and the Butcher. Thinking maybe Brad gets his shot at Abdullah next.
Hell of a match to end the show. You've made Williams into a superstar even with the loss. You showed he can take a massive amount of damage but keep getting back up. It's a feel good moment for Funk, too, since he finally becomes the top wrestler in a company. Like Ryan said, it may not be a World Title, but Funk has worked long and hard to be the top guy, and he's finally done it.
Good show, Vertigo! Can't wait to see where it goes from here.
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Post by vertigo on Jan 30, 2013 12:29:02 GMT -5
Thanks for the feedback!
Tito no-showing was a tough break. I planned on bringing in Dr. Death next show and build him up slow but he was my only replacement option here. He's still young, but he's so athletic and tough he's believable in this role.
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