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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Oct 28, 2021 14:48:22 GMT -5
In this version of the circuit I've just completed its 6th year, 90-95, and not included here is a sort of prequel I did to stretch this version of WCW back to Fall of 1988 which I'm considering the start of WCW. So I took the time (by that I mean I got really bored at work one day) to compile a complete history of the circuit in case anyone's interested. Title histories, year-by-year awards and a few other things. A little retrospective as I get prepared to enter perhaps the biggest boom period of professional wrestling. docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1OHtaB2b6Pcy0UdjgVfvOJGeP2u59huJcbl-fzGl5eb8/edit?usp=sharing
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Post by thesubverse on Oct 28, 2021 16:36:29 GMT -5
That's really cool! Thanks for sharing. Really enjoying this fed.
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Oct 30, 2021 14:41:02 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (Jan. 1, 1996) Eddie Guerrero pinned Greg Valentine with the Frog Splash in 8:20. Rating: *** 1/2Eddie Guerrero continued his positive momentum from beating Dean Malenko at Starrcade with a victory tonight over tough veteran Greg “The Hammer” Valentine. After the match, Gene Okerlund met Guerrero in the ring and told them the Championship Committee has put Guerrero next in line for a shot at the TV Title. This brought out current champ DDP. Page said he only gives shots to people he wants to give shots to. He said when he is ready to give Guerrero a shot, then, and only then will he get a shot. And Guerrero will know when DDP wants to give him a shot. He then proceeded to Diamond Cut Guerrero. Sabu pinned Mike Enos with the Triple Jump Moonsault in 9:31. Rating: *** 1/2Disco Inferno has been offering a “generous reward” to anybody that can put Sabu through a table. Mike Enos was the latest to try, and the latest to fail. Sabu, as has become custom, set up Enos on a table preparing to splash down through it after the match. However, it seems someone else was aiming to claim the bounty as Scott Norton attacked Sabu from behind. Enos cleared out and Norton was able to lift Sabu high and then powerbomb him through the table. Interview with Ric FlairThe leader of the Horsemen Ric Flair did an interview saying he proved at Starrcade, Steve Austin is a nobody. Everything he ever was, Ric Flair and the Horsemen made. He announced he's putting Austin in the past and focusing on the World Heavyweight Title. When asked about whether or not a new Horseman would be unveiled to take Steve Austin’s spot, a sly smile grew on Flair’s face as all he said was “Time will tell.” The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) defeated Arn Anderson and Marcus Alexander Bagwell when R. Steiner pinned A. Anderson after the Top Rope Bulldog in 12:56. Rating: **** 1/4Following Flair’s interview, the other two Horsemen, Anderson and Bagwell, the two men probably most responsible for Flair's win over Austin, went to the ring to face the now former tag champs, the Steiners. Austin showed up going after the Horsemen, which helped the Steiners pick up a win. He chased Bagwell around the ring then all the way to the back leaving Anderson alone and easy pickings for the Steiners. Hulk Hogan pinned Ron Simmons with the Big Leg Drop in 8:51. Rating: * 1/2Hulk Hogan picked up a win in a typical Hogan match, then called out Big Van Vader. Hogan said he will have his day to face the Macho Man again, but he can't wait to get his hands on Vader. Card rating: ** 3/4 -------------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (Jan. 8, 1996) The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeated The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) when Riggs pinned Barbarian after a slingshot bodyblock in 7:52. Rating: 1/4*Kicking off tonight’s edition of Monday Nitro, Alex Wright and his new partner Scotty Riggs made their Nitro debut picking up what many would consider an upset, beating the Faces of Fear. Disco Inferno pinned Ice Train after a neckbreaker in 7:43. Rating: *Disco Inferno was in a great mood after someone finally put Sabu through a table for him last week. Disco stayed hot with a big win over Ice Train then kept dancing in the ring after. Scott Norton came out to try and collect his bounty for being the one to put Sabu through a table. Disco told Norton he'll get it real soon, but this is a time of celebration and tried to get Norton to dance. Norton wasn't in the dancing mood and kept insisting on his money. Sabu, though, crashed the party, rushing down and going after both Norton and Disco with chairs, chasing them to the back. INTERVIEW WITH STEVE AUSTINSteve Austin talked about his loss to Ric Flair at Starrcade and said sooner or later he will get another chance to get his hands on Flair. If he has to go through Bagwell, Anderson or whoever else, he will do whatever it takes. Bobby Walker pinned Johnny B. Badd after a small package in 7:24. Rating: 3/4* (Mr. J.L. no-showed.)Johnny B. Badd's losing streak continued as Bobby Walker pulled off the upset, but Badd totally snapped after attacking Walker with a chair until security had to come pull him off. Sting defeated Ric Flair by disqualification in 14:49. Rating: *** 1/4 (Sting retained the WCW UNITED STATES TITLE.) [Randy Savage interfered against Sting.]Before his match with Ric Flair, Sting made a point that while he is proudly defending his US Title, no one should forget, he won that title from Randy Savage. Now that Savage is the World Champ, maybe Sting will have to take another title from him. During the match, Sting had Flair set up in the Scorpion Death Lock, but Savage ran in from behind and attacked Sting. When Sting was down, Savage then went and started stomping away at Flair. Savage said after, that anyone that tries to come after his title is going to pay. That includes, Sting, Flair and even Hulk Hogan.
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Nov 2, 2021 16:21:36 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (Jan. 15, 1996) Eddie Guerrero pinned Chris Candido with the Frog Splash in 12:40. Rating: *** 3/4Eddie Guerrero made a statement to Diamond Dallas Page in his quest to get a TV title shot by beating Page’s protege Chris Candido. Page looked on as Guerrero looked impressive getting the win. Jim Duggan pinned Disco Inferno with the Three Point Stance in 7:51. Rating: **Disco Inferno got a visit again from Scott Norton in the middle of his match. The distraction led to Disco suffering the loss. But after, Norton again asked for his bounty and again, Disco said he didn't have it on him but will get it soon. Interview with Johnny B. BaddJohnny B. Badd spoke to Gene Okerlund and said he's sick and tired of losing and the time has come for him to do something about it. He's been too nice, too concerned about having a good time for the fans, and it cost him matches. That's all over now. Jim Duggan then came out and told Badd that's not the right attitude to have. He said there's greatness inside of Badd and everyone goes through a little slump. Things will turn around and sooner or later, he'll be back to his winning ways. Badd replied that those words might've meant something if they didn't come from a no-talent, over the hill piece of garbage. He then knocked out Duggan with a right hook. Lex Luger pinned Davey Boy Smith after a running forearm in 9:04. Rating: ** 1/4Luger put to rest his feud with Davey Boy Smith with a clean win tonight one on one. However, after the match and Luger left, Smith was ambushed by Ron Simmons. Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) defeated The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) when Booker pinned Knobbs after a sidewalk slam in 10:41. Rating: * 1/2 (Harlem Heat retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)Harlem Heat successfully defended their world tag titles against their old rivals, The Nasty Boys. After the match, Harlem Heat was approached by The Steiners requesting their world title rematch. Harlem Heat said it didn’t matter, they proved their the best and would gladly do it again. Interview with WCW Commissioner Nick BockwinkleA lot of people are asking for shots at Randy Savage's world title. WCW commissioner Nick Bockwinkle met in the ring with Hulk Hogan, Sting, Ric Flair and Vader and said we will decide the No. 1 contender at Clash of the Champions on the 23rd. It will be a four man elimination match with the last man left getting a title shot at Randy Savage at Superbrawl. Savage came out and spoke from the entrance way saying the four can go beat each other up and he will wait to see whoever's left. ------------------------------------ MONDAY NITRO (Jan. 22, 1996) Jim Duggan pinned Johnny B. Badd with the Three Point Stance in 7:58. Rating: * 1/4After last week’s confrontation, Badd and Duggan faced off. The younger, more athletic Badd had control of the match, but Badd’s new attitude didn’t sit well with the fans who let him know it. Badd was busy arguing with the fans, unaware Duggan was setting up in his three-point stance. Badd turned around right in time to get ran over. Steve Austin pinned Shark after a faceslam in 8:09. Rating: 1/2*Austin is dead set on working his way up to a rematch with Ric Flair. He had a big test tonight but past it swimmingly. After the match he called out the Horsemen said he was coming for all of them. Dean Malenko made Disco Inferno submit to the Texas Cloverleaf in 0:10:43. Rating: *** 1/2Dean Malenko picked up a victory over Disco Inferno. As soon as the bell rung, Scott Norton walked out with a mic and told Dean not to let go of the Cloverleaf. Malenko didn't seem to have a problem keeping him in the hold. Norton entered the ring and squatted down next to Disco, who was in incredible pain. Norton pointed out for weeks now he's been looking for this bounty Disco promised him. Norton asked Disco if he was going to ever get it and Disco shook his head yes. Norton then asked when, and Disco, still in pain, could just say soon. Norton said that's not good enough and then asked Malenko if he could tighten the hold. He then asked Disco again, when was he going to get his bounty and Disco managed to say "Clash.” Norton double checked if Disco meant Clash of the Champions? and he shook his head yes. Norton then gave Malenko permission to release the hold. Sabu then charged out and chased away Norton and Malenko with a chair, but Disco couldn't get away and ended up getting put through a table. Big Van Vader and Ric Flair defeated Sting and Hulk Hogan when Vader pinned Sting after a short lariat in 12:05. Rating: ***The four men who will face off in a four corners match at tomorrow night’s Clash of Champion met in tag action tonight. Sting and Hogan worked well together, while there was little trust between Vader and Flair. Midway through the match, Austin ran to the ring to go after Flair, but as he chased Flair around the ring, he was ambushed by Arn Anderson and Marcus Bagwell. Vader and Sting have quite a history against each other and know each other well. Sting set up Vader for a Stinger Splash, but Vader came out of the corner, meeting Sting with a vicious lariat that scored the pin. Vader went on to attack Hogan after the match while Flair snuck away before he could be next. World Champion Randy Savage came out to celebrate Vader’s decimation of their rivals, but Vader made it clear that once he gets past everyone else, he’ll take the title match against Savage he earned. Card rating: ** 3/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Nov 10, 2021 15:44:29 GMT -5
CLASH OF THE CHAMPIONS XXXV (Jan. 23, 1996) Diamond Dallas Page pinned Eddie Guerrero with the Diamond Cutter in 12:58. Rating: ** 3/4 (Diamond Dallas Page retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Tonight’s Clash opened up with a great match for the TV title. Eddie Guerrero was hungry for his first taste of gold in WCW, but DDP was looking to take another step toward being one of the greatest TV champions of all time. Guerrero looked positioned to take the title, as he had DDP in position for a frog splash. But as the referee wasn’t looking, Guerrero climbed to the top, only to have Chris Candido jump on the apron and shove Guerrero off. This enabled Page to recover, hit a Diamond Cutter and retain his title. The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeated The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) when A. Wright pinned Knobbs after a belly-to-belly superplex in 9:59. Rating: * 1/4The newest team to hit the scene in the WCW tag division scored a huge upset tonight as the Ultimate Males knocked off the Nasty Boys. With this win, the team is likely to shoot up the top contender rankings. Johnny B. Badd pinned Jim Duggan after a flying sunset flip in 14:59. Rating: 3/4*Johnny B. Badd had a return match against Jim Duggan. Badd took this match more seriously as showboating played a big part in his downfall in the first encounter. Still, the rugged veteran Duggan is tough to put away and eventually worked his way to having all the momentum on his side. Badd tried to escape the ring for a breather, but Duggan reached over the ropes and tried to pull him back in, but Badd looked to take an object out of his tights and used it in his fist to seemingly knock out Duggan who slumped over the ropes. Badd came back in with a sunset flip and got the pin. Interview with Disco Inferno and Scott NortonScott Norton finally got Disco Inferno in the ring ready to collect his bounty for putting Sabu through a table. Disco told Norton, don't worry. He's ready to pay up his end of the deal. But while Norton was expecting a check or even cash. Disco presented him with a wrapped package. Norton unwrapped it to reveal an Autographed Disco Inferno, Shake Your Booty CD. Norton was furious asking Disco if this was a joke. But Disco was dead serious, saying this is worth a fortune. Norton backed Disco into a corner, but before he could attack, Sabu ran to the ring with a chair and chased away both men. Konnan made Psychosis submit to the Tequila Sunrise in 11:29. Rating: **** 1/4In a special showcase match, two of Mexico’s top wrestlers came to WCW to display their talents in front of an American audience. The match was a tremendous back and forth affair with both high flying moves and physical wrestling. In the end, Mexican heavyweight champion Konnan forced his rival submit. Steve Austin defeated Marcus Alexander Bagwell via pinfall in 18:39. Rating: *** 1/2It wasn’t too long ago when Austin and Bagwell were tag team champions together. But Bagwell made it clear he had no loyalty to his former partner and his split with the Horsemen when he smacked him with a chair at Starrcade. Austin dominated the match early, but Bagwell got a boost from fellow Horseman Arn Anderson at ringside to turn the match around. But Austin was able to persevere, fight off Anderson with a Stun Gun outside the ring over the steel guardrail, then with Bagwell all alone, Austin came out on top once again. Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) defeated The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) when Booker pinned S. Steiner after an Axe Kick in 21:45. Rating: *** 1/2 (Harlem Heat retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)Harlem Heat and the Steiners met one more time to settle once and for all who the best tag team in WCW is. The match was a slugfest with both sides exchanging the momentum, yet unable to put the other away. In the end, Harlem Heat once again emerged victorious, retaining their titles. They spoke quickly after the match how this should undoubtedly prove that they are the best team WCW has ever seen. But at that moment, over the sound system it could be heard … “Ohhhhhh What a Rush!!” To the shock of Harlem Heat and just about everyone in the arena, the Road Warriors, the team that became the first ever WCW tag champions and held that title for over 300 days, made their return to WCW standing on the entryway. They didn’t say anything, just making sure Harlem Heat felt their presence. Davey Boy Smith pinned Ron Simmons with the Running Powerslam in 6:48. Rating: ***Former partners faced off in another hard-hitting match. The two powerhouses clashed to settle their grudge. For the first time in nearly a year, Davey Boy Smith had the crowd behind him, and it helped carry him to a win. Smith left the ring, high-fiving many in the crowd on his way to the back. Top Contenders Match Four Corners Match: Sting defeated Big Van Vader, Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair: x Sting beat Flair via a small package in 13:45 x Vader beat Hogan via a powerbomb in 16:56 x Sting beat Vader via a powerslam in 20:45 Rating: *** 3/4
Four of the biggest names in wrestling collided for a shot at the game’s ultimate prize. The four are all well familiar with each other and old rivalries reignited. The match was conducted in elimination style. The first casualty was Nature Boy Ric Flair, who was trying to set up Sting for his Figure Four Leg Lock when Steve Austin started to come down to the ring. Arn Anderson and Marcus Bagwell took care of Austin, but Flair continued to yell at Austin while trying to lock his hold in on Sting. This distraction gave Sting the opening to counter with a small package and eliminate Flair. Sting and Hogan tried to team up to take down Vader. At one point they hit him with a double clothesline sending him over the top rope and to the floor. This left the two fan favorites alone in the ring to go at it in the ring as the crowd roared. Sting got the upperhand at first and had Hogan in the corner. He went for a Stinger Splash but Hogan moved and Sting crashed into the corner. Hogan hit Sting with a big boot, then went to the ropes to come for his big leg drop. However, from the floor Vader grabbed Hogan’s feet tripping him up. Vader came back in the ring and worked over Hogan, hitting a powerbomb that pinned and eliminated Hogan. Down now to Vader and Sting, Vader had control for a while but made one mistake, coming off the ropes, he charged at Sting, only to be caught in a powerslam. Sting held him for the three count winning the match. Vader was stunned but after the bell, he started attacking Sting. Hogan then came back and helped make the save for Sting and the two sent Vader back out of the ring. Once again alone in the ring with the match over, Hogan shook Sting’s hand, telling him to go get the title. Card rating: *** 1/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Nov 18, 2021 12:04:02 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (Jan. 29, 1996) Eddie Guerrero pinned Chris Candido with the Frog Splash in 9:39. Rating: *** 3/4After seeing Guerrero beat his protege, Diamond Dallas Page offered Eddie Guerrero a rematch for the TV Title. DDP said he doesn't feel he beat Guerrero good enough at the Clash, perhaps a reference to Chris Candido getting involved in the match. Page said he wants to leave no doubt that he's the better man. Guerrero answered “any time, any place.” Lord Steven Regal interviewSteve Regal made a return to Nitro after a bit of an absence. Regal said he came back because what he saw on his TV at the Clash made him sick. WCW bringing in wrestlers from Mexico, referencing Konnan's match with Psychosis. Regal said Mexican wrestling in an abomination. WCW should instead pay more attention to British wrestling, as that is what real wrestling should be. The Road Warriors (Animal and Hawk) defeated The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) when Hawk pinned Barbarian after The Doomsday Device in 10:57. Rating: *The Road Warriors wrestled their first match in WCW in six years picking up the win over The Faces of Fear. They said after they’ve been listening to Harlem Heat claim to be the best ever. But they will always be the first, and best. Johnny B. Badd interviewBadd promoted his change in attitude as what helped him beat Jim Duggan. In the middle of the interview, Lex Luger came out. Luger said Badd needs to listen to him, because he's the kind of person that will tell the truth even if someone doesn't want to hear it. And the truth is, Badd just isn't good enough. Badd may have had a nice run once, but that was before Luger came in, and the talent level got raised up. Badd tried to take a cheap shot at Luger, but he blocked it and laid Badd out with a clothesline. Scott Norton pinned Sabu with the Power Bomb in 5:02. Rating: ** 1/2Scott Norton got the win over Sabu thanks to Disco's interference. Although it looked like Disco may have been aiming for Norton when he came to the ring with a chair, but Norton ducked and Sabu got hit. After the match, Norton asked Disco if he was trying to hit him. Disco told him no, that was his plan all along, and tried to raise Norton's hand in victory. Norton however laid out Disco. Hulk Hogan and Sting and The Four Horsemen (Arn Anderson and Ric Flair) battled to a draw in ::00:02. Rating: ** 1/4All heck broke loose in the main event tag match. Hulk Hogan has given his full support to his friend Sting, saying if he couldn't get the title match against Randy Savage, he's glad Sting got it. Vader thinks Hogan cost him the match at the Clash and came down to attack Hogan during the match. But also, Steve Austin came down after Ric Flair. People were fighting all over but in the ring, Sting got the win over Anderson. Savage however ran in after the match and nailed Sting from behind with the title belt. Card rating: *** ----------------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (Feb. 5, 1996) Lord Steven Regal defeated Psychosis when Psychosis passed out in the Regal Stretch in 8:11. Rating: *** ½Regal has been criticizing the influx of Mexican wrestlers into WCW, not respecting their style of wrestling and saying WCW should more focus on European style of wrestling. He aimed to prove his and his style’s superiority in a match against Psychosis. Regal defeated him with the Regal Stretch but refused to let go even after he was awarded victory. Konnan, the Mexican heavyweight champion, ran down to the ring to force Regal to break the hold. He challenged Regal to a match at Superbrawl to prove who’s country was better. The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeated The Road Warriors (Animal and Hawk) when Riggs pinned Animal with the Rocker Dropper in 10:57. Rating: *** ¼Harlem Heat made it clear they want no part of the Road Warriors. Hawk & Animal faced off with the Ultimate Males to see who would challenge the champs for the titles at Superbrawl. Heat made sure the Males won the match so they wouldn't have to face the Warriors. During a post match interview, the Males said Harlem Heat better be careful what they wish for. Johnny B. Badd pinned Bobby Walker with the Tutti Frutti in 7:28. Rating: 1/2*After avenging an upset loss a few weeks ago, Badd called out Lex Luger after their confrontation last week. Luger came to the ring and Badd needs to stop being a sniveling baby. Badd again tried to sucker punch Luger, but the Total Package was expecting it, ducking it and slugging Badd in the stomach. Badd dropped to a knee, but came back up with a low blow that dropped Luger to a knee. He took advantage of a weakened Luger knocking him out with a left hook. Disco Inferno defeated Sabu by countout in 6:08. Rating: *** ¾Scott Norton showed up at ringside during the Sabu-Disco match, and seemingly put a scare into Disco, who seemed conflicted, wanted to run away from Sabu, but not wanting to run into Norton. But instead it was Sabu who grabbed a chair and went after Norton, still upset from Norton putting him through a table recently. Hulk Hogan and Sting defeated Randy Savage and Big Van Vader when Sting pinned Savage with the Scorpion Death Drop in 17:17. Rating: ***Less than a week before challenging for his world title, Sting scored a pin over world champion Randy Savage. But as Sting and Hogan were celebrating the win, Savage and Vader attacked both from behind. They continued the onslaught with Savage hitting a flying elbow on Sting, then Vader powerbombing Hogan on to Sting. Savage celebrated with his foot on Sting’s chest, posing holding his title belt high. Card rating: ** 3/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Nov 28, 2021 11:31:23 GMT -5
SUPERBRAWL VI (Feb. 11, 1996) Diamond Dallas Page pinned Eddie Guerrero with the Diamond Cutter in 12:27. Rating: ** (Diamond Dallas Page retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Diamond Dallas Page granted Eddie Guerrero a rematch for the TV title. Guerrero came to the ring ready and eager to take advantage of his second chance. Guerrero gained an edge and had Page set up for a frog splash. He spotted Chris Candido running down trying to get on the apron, which is what cost him his first match. This time, Guerrero kicked Candido in the head, knocking him down. However, this gave Page time to recover. He caught Guerrero and gave him a Diamond Cutter off the top rope. Konnan defeated Lord Steven Regal via pinfall in 9:39. Rating: *** 3/4Regal wanted to promote his more ground-and-pound style of wrestling, not thinking the Mexican Konnan could handle. However, Konnan proved to be more than capable at beating Regal at his own game. Konnan produced an efficient blend of wrestling styles that Regal wasn’t prepared for as he claimed victory. Scott Norton and Sabu battled to a double countout in 9:07. Rating: * 3/4Nothing seemed to get settled between these two, and Disco Inferno tonight. Disco came to ringside and was cheering on Norton, but Norton didn’t seem to want anything to do with it. He went outside and started yelling at Disco, only to have Sabu splash down on top of both. The fight continued all over the floor with Disco even jumping in. The ref had no choice but to throw the match out. Lex Luger made Johnny B. Badd submit to the Torture Rack in 17:21. Rating: *** ¾Badd started the match blindsiding Luger when he was walking down the ramp to the ring. He kept the early advantage but Luger soon countered was able to hit numerous power moves. Badd’s athleticism enabled him to avoid getting in too much trouble, but Luger eventually locked Badd in the Torture Rack to get a submission. The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) when A. Wright pinned Booker after a bulldog in 14:18. Rating: ** (The Ultimate Males won the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)In what has to be considered a major upset, we have new world tag team champions. Harlem Heat controlled most of the match but couldn’t put the upstart team away, leading to growing frustrations. Stevie Ray resorted to pulling out a slapjack, but the Road Warriors ran down to prevent Harlem Heat from using any foreign objects. This also occupied Harlem Heat’s attention allowing Wright to hit a Bulldog and get the win and the titles. Steve Austin defeated Ric Flair by disqualification in 16:09. Rating: ***Austin finally got his rematch from Starrcade but some of the same issues plagued him, that being the other Horsemen lurking around. But if anyone knows about that, it’s Austin. The former Horsemen was one step ahead of every move they tried to make. But even so, the numbers game was too much as when it looked like Austin was getting ready to put Flair away Anderson and Bagwell rushed the ring causing a disqualification. Hulk Hogan pinned Big Van Vader after the Leg Drop in 15:38. Rating: *** 1/2Hogan finally settled a score with Vader that stretched back five months and along the way cost him the world title. Hogan withstood Vader’s powerful onslaught, weathering the storm until he finally was able to force Vader into a mistake. Vader tried for a moonsault from the top rope, only to have Hogan move out of the way just in time. This led to a “Hulk up” scenario that has become a mainstay, with Hogan finally putting Vader away after a boot and leg drop. Sting pinned Randy Savage after a superplex in 25:29. Rating: **** 1/2 (Sting won the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)Another long standing rivalry came to a climax tonight in the world title match. Sting and Savage have had quite a few epic encounters in recent months, but this latest chapter in the saga may have been the greatest of all. The two took turns with momentum, trading their best shots back and forth. Late in the match, Sting had things going in his favor, he went in for a Stinger Splash, only to have Savage move. Savage clotheslined Sting to the mat and went up top for his famous flying elbow. But Sting wasn’t quite down and out. He popped up and ran to the corner to meet Savage. Sting climbed the ropes and traded punches with Savage but the exchange ended with Sting getting the upper hand. With Savage reeling, Sting brought him down with a vicious Superplex. He covered and got the 1-2-3!! A number of Sting’s friends, including Hogan, Luger and the Steiners came to the ring to celebrate Sting’s newly won world championship. Card rating: *** 1/2
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Nov 30, 2021 19:49:57 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (Feb. 12, 1996) Psychosis defeated Super Calo by pinfall in 8:50. Rating: **Nitro opened with a luchadore match between Psychosis and Super Calo. After Psychosis got the win, Steve Regal ran down and attacked both. He called out Konnan saying Superbrawl was a fluke once again calling the Mexican style garbage. As Konnan began to walk down to the ring to help out his countrymen, he was attacked from behind by two men. Regal introduced them as two of Europe's best, and real wrestlers. The Belfast Bruiser Fit Finlay, and one of Great Britain's best and brightest, David Taylor. Davey Boy Smith pinned Arn Anderson with the Running Powerslam in 11:38. Rating: ***With United States champion Sting winning the world title, it was announced the US title is now vacant and will be awarded to the winner of a battle royal at the upcoming Uncensored PPV. Two former champions, Arn Anderson and Davey Boy Smith came out to state their intentions of becoming the next champ, which led to an impromptu match. Smith scored the win, but that brought out Flair and Bagwell to attack after the match. Steve Austin came down and helped Davey Boy clean house. Flair offered them a challenge if they're up to it, next week Austin and Davey Boy can compete in a handicap match against The Horsemen. INTERVIEW WITH STINGSting was being interviewed after his World Title win. He was asked about Hulk Hogan beating Vader which likely makes him the No. 1 contender. Sting said he's looking forward to a match with Hulk, but he was interrupted by former Champ Randy Savage. Savage said he's due a rematch and he wants next week on Nitro. Sting pointed out he beat Savage for the US title and for the World Title, and he would love to do it one more time. The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) defeated Hawk and Stevie Ray when R. Steiner pinned Hawk with the Steiner Bulldog in 8:19. (Animal no showed) Rating: ** 1/2The Road Warriors were set to face the Steiners with the winners in line for a title shot. But before the match, Harlem Heat attacked Animal leaving him laid out in the back. Hawk began the match 2 on 1. Then of all people, Stevie Ray ran down himself. He said he was going to be Hawk's partner tonight. This went about just how you thought it would. Stevie laid out his "partner" letting the Steiners get the win. Randy Savage pinned Lex Luger with the Flying Elbowdrop in 12:17. Rating: ****In the main event, ahead of his return match for the World Title against Sting, Savage faced Sting's best friend Lex Luger. Savage got an added boost from Johnny B. Badd. Badd wasn’t as much helping Savage as he was trying to screw over Luger. Badd gave a cheap shot to Luger with a loaded glove that helped Savage get the win. Card rating: *** 1/4 ----------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (Feb. 19, 1996) Handicap-Match: The Four Horsemen (Arn Anderson, Marcus Bagwell and Ric Flair) and defeated Steve Austin and Davey Boy Smith when Flair pinned Austin in 13:30. Rating: ** 3/4Last week, Ric Flair challenged Austin & Davey Boy Smith to face the Horsemen tonight in a handicap match. Little did anyone know, he meant all 4 Horsemen. Introducing Jeff Jarrett, the newest member of the Horsemen. Jarrett ran in and smashed a guitar over Austin's head leading to Flair getting the pin. David Taylor and Fit Finlay defeated The Destruction Crew (Mike Enos and Wayne Bloom) when Finlay pinned W. Bloom after a short clothesline in 9:55. Rating: ** ¾The two fellow European gentlemen Steve Regal brought in to help fight WCW’s growing Mexican contingent had their in-ring debut in tag action. Taylor and Finlay lived up to Regal’s way of wrestling being physical and good mat technicians. They scored a relatively easy win over the Destruction Crew. Interview with Diamond Dallas PageGene Okerlund interviewed Diamond Dallas Page about his TV title asking who his next challenger was going to be. DDP said he didn't know. He only wants to wrestle and beat the very best so he can be the greatest champ of all time. And quite frankly, he doesn't know anyone deserving enough for a title shot. This led to Page's protege, The Diamond in the Rough Chris Candido to ask for a shot saying he helped DDP so many times, he's due a shot. Page laughed this off saying Candido wasn't ready and DDP beating him would do nothing to elevate his prestige. But Page made Candido a deal. Page was entering the US Title Battle Royal. When he wins, he will hand the TV belt over to Chris Candido. Scott Norton pinned Disco Inferno with the Power Bomb in 5:32. Rating: ** 1/2Disco Inferno again tried to settle his debt with Scott Norton with a bribe. Norton had previously rejected Disco’s offer of a signed CD, so this time he offered VIP passes to his New York City Discotech. Again, Norton wasn’t satisfied and proceeded to take out Disco in a pretty quick match. After, Sabu again ran down with a chair and went after both men. Norton was able to get out of the way and run to the back, leaving Disco at Sabu’s mercy, which meant a leg drop through a table. Sting pinned Randy Savage after a flying dropkick in 15:38. Rating: *** 3/4 (Sting retained the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.) Sting injured his neck. He will be out for approximately 12 months.Sting retained his world title, having to fight off an attack from Vader to do so. In fact, it was Vader who cost Randy Savage the match. At one point, the referee was knocked down, Vader attempted to run in while Sting was in the corner punching away at Savage. Vader charged and Sting moved out of the way, leaving Vader to inadvertently splash Savage in the corner. Hulk Hogan came down after and held Vader at bay while Sting got the pin. After the match however, Sting looked a little shaken up and had to be helped to the back. Card rating: *** -------------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (Feb. 26, 1996) Lex Luger pinned Johnny B. Badd after a clothesline in 5:39. Rating: ** ½Luger owed Badd for costing him a match against Randy Savage a couple weeks ago. Luger took out his frustrations tonight. He controlled most of the match until Badd started to turn things around. He went for a springboard move, but Luger caught him coming down with a vicious clothesline that led to a pin. David Taylor and Fit Finlay defeated Super Calo and Psychosis when D. Taylor pinned Psychosis with the Double Underhook Suplex in 8:23. Rating: *** 1/2Lord Steven Regal stood at ringside watching his friends trying to prove the point he’s been making of European wrestling being superior to the Mexican style. But once Calo and Psychosis began to turn the match around, Regal got involved helping his team get the win. He jumped in the ring after the match and helped Taylor and Finlay in a 3-on-2 attack until Konnan ran to make the save, chasing everyone away. Eddie Guerrero pinned Mr. J.L. with the Frog Splash in 9:59. Rating: **An announcement was made during this match that WCW is creating a new Cruiserweight Championship with a tournament to crown the inaugural champ to begin next month. Guerrero and JL were both named as competitors in the tournament. Both tried to pick up momentum heading into the event, but it was Guerrero coming out on top tonight. The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeated Booker T and Scott Steiner when A. Wright pinned Booker with the Reverse Neckbreaker in 9:17 Rating: *** 3/4 (The Ultimate Males retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)Harlem Heat did it again. The tag champions Ultimate Males were scheduled to defend against the Steiner Brothers. Harlem Heat took out Rick Steiner in the locker room right before the match and Booker T offered to come out as Scott's new partner. But just like last week, Booker came in, cleared out the opponents, then laid out Scott Steiner and left. This left the Ultimate Males with an easy time to retain their titles. They made a statement after that no one gets a title shot, but them. Hulk Hogan defeated Randy Savage by disqualification in 15:39. Rating: **
The announcement was made earlier tonight that the upcoming Uncensored PPV would be headlined by a 4-man cage match for the World title, but now it looks like 2 of the 4 scheduled to be in the match might not even make it. It was announced that during last week's match world Champion Sting suffered an injury and was undergoing tests this week, and his status for Uncensored was unknown. Hulk Hogan was also supposed to be in the match, but was brutally assaulted by Vader and Savage, the other two men scheduled to be in the cage, With Sting not in the building, Hogan had no back-up as Vader ran in during tonight’s main event and started brutally attacking Hogan. Vader performed multiple powerbombs on Hogan with Savage repeatedly dropping elbows. Hogan had to be helped to the back after. Vader and Randy Savage may have accomplished their goal they stated back in October of clearing out the rest of the top contenders for the World Title. Card rating: ** 3/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Dec 5, 2021 21:53:11 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (Mar. 4, 1996) Chris Candido pinned Ice Train after a Hotshot in 8:13. Rating: 3/4*Chris Candido is trying to prove to his mentor DDP that he'd be a worthy challenger for the TV Title. Candido beat Ice Train, a wrestler he gave up quite a bit of size to, then asked again for a title shot. Page said that's good but Candido still has a long way to go. Page in fact has found his next opponent, and announced that next week he will defend his TV Title against one of the greatest in the world, Jushin Thunder Liger. Scott Norton defeated Sabu by disqualification in 7:21. Rating: *WCW matchmakers seemed to catch on tonight that normal matches aren’t going to settle the score between Norton and Sabu, as well as Disco Inferno. After tonight’s match ended when Sabu assaulted Norton with a chair, it was announced that at Uncensored, the three men will face off in a 3-way tables match. Interview with Randy SavageSavage comes to the ring with three glasses and a bottle of champagne. He hands one glass to Gene Okerlund and pours drinks in all three glasses. Okerlund looks confused until Savage finally speaks, “One for you Mene Gene, One for me as we celebrate.” Savage then takes the third glass and pours it out onto the mat, “And pouring one out in memory of Sting.” Savage then took credit for injuring Sting saying there’s no way he is making it to Uncensored and he demanded Sting come to Nitro next week and hand the World title belt over to him. Davey Boy Smith pinned Marcus Bagwell with the Running Powerslam in 4:53. Rating: * ¼Davey Boy Smith was very impressive in tearing through Four Horsemen member Bagwell. He ended the match so quickly, the rest of the group didn’t have the chance to rush the ring to interfere. The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) when Sags defeated Booker by countout. Rating: * ½Harlem Heat got a taste of their own medicine. Before their scheduled match against the Nasty Boys, they were jumped by both the Road Warriors and the Steiner Brothers. Each team then tried to take Harlem Heat’s match, which led to the Steiners and Warriors beginning to fight each other. It'll go down in the record book as a countout win for the Nastys. Jeff Jarrett pinned Steve Austin after a figure-four leglock in 13:51. Rating: *** 1/4Steve Austin was out to get revenge on new Horsemen member Jeff Jarrett for his guitar attack last week. He was well on his way to getting his revenge before the Horsemen made their presence felt. Ric Flair passed a pair of brass knuckles to Jarrett who used them to knock out Austin while the ref was distracted. Jarrett put an unconscious Austin in the Figure Four and picked up a pin. After the match, the rest of the Horsemen jumped in and attacked Austin. Davey Boy Smith tried to run down to help, but Anderson and Bagwell went out to meet him and the two fought Smith all the way to the back. In the ring, Flair began yelling at Austin “You know what you’re problem is Austin?! You’re jealous of me. You want to be the Nature Boy. But you can never be the Nature Boy!” Flair then pulled out scissors and started snipping away at Austin’s flowing blonde hair. A number of officials finally had to run down to try to stop Flair as the show faded out. Card rating: ** ------------------------------ MONDAY NITRO (Mar. 11, 1996) Diamond Dallas Page pinned Jushin Thunder Liger after The Diamond Cutter in 9:28 Rating: *** 1/2 (Diamond Dallas Page retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Diamond Dallas Page likes to throw out challenges, but has been doing a good job of backing up his talk. He had another great match tonight, this time against Jushin Liger. Page took advantage of Liger missing on a moonsault, picking him up and hitting him with a Diamond Cutter. After, Page took a mic and listed the men he’s defending his title against. Great Muta, Johnny B. Badd, Steamboat, Eddie Guerrero and now Jushin Liger. Page asked for the best, he’s gotten the best and he’s beaten the best. And at Uncensored, he’s ready for a golden upgrade and becoming U.S. Champ. Dean Malenko made Bobby Walker submit to the Texas Cloverleaf in 8:08. Rating: **Dean Malenko, nicknamed the Iceman by commentators, was all business picking up a win. After, he addressed the upcoming Cruiserweight Title tournament saying there’s not a man in that bracket that can beat him. He was asked what about Eddie Guerrero. Malenko responded that Guerrero did get him once, which means there’s no way it will happen again. The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) and The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) and The Road Warriors (Hawk and Animal) when A. Wright pinned Hawk after a German suplex in 13:56. Rating: ***Uncensored will include a 4-way dance for the World Tag Titles. Those teams were thrown into an 8 man match tonight. The Ultimate Males and Steiners seemed to get along as a team, but Harlem Heat and the Road Warriors began fighting during the introductions and refs had to separate them. We finally got a match underway but not much changed. Heat and the Warriors fought each other just as much as their opponents. Late in the match, Stevie Ray knocked out Hawk with a foreign object leaving him to be pinned by Alex Wright. Davey Boy Smith and Steve Austin defeated Arn Anderson and Marcus Alexander Bagwell when D.B. Smith pinned A. Anderson with the Running Powerslam in 10:08. Rating: ** 3/4Austin sported a noticeably trimmed hairstyle after Ric Flair’s barberwork last week. He was eager to get his hands on Flair but instead had to settle for Anderson and Bagwell. Smith proved to be a solid ally give Austin backup and team with him to get the win. Flair and Jarrett tried to run down after the match but were fought off by Smith and Austin. The groups again needed to be separated by refs. Flair and Austin traded comments on the mic. The challenge was made and accepted for a Hair vs. Hair match between the two at Uncensored. Interview with StingSting came out with a neck brace. He admitted Savage may have been right last week when he said Sting wasn't going to make it to Uncensored. But he'll be damned if he hands the belt right over. Savage and Vader both came out and said Sting shouldn't have come here. Not only will they make sure Sting doesn't make it to Uncensored, but they can very easily end Sting's career. Sting though countered saying he knew Savage would try something here tonight, so he made sure he had someone to watch his back. As Savage and Vader tried to corner Sting, out from the back ran Sting's best friend Lex Luger. Luger cleared out Savage and Vader. Luger said he will always have Sting's back and if he needs someone to step into the cage for him, then he'll take the spot Card rating: ** 3/4 --------------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (Mar. 18, 1996) Sabu pinned Disco Inferno with the Triple Jump Moonsault in 4:30. Rating: **Less than a week before being part of a tables match at Uncensored, Sabu and Disco met in just a standard match, although Sabu still tried to turn it into a tables match. After getting the pin, Sabu tried to bring a table into the ring, but Disco was able to fight him off just long enough to run away to the back. Konnan defeated Lord Steven Regal by disqualification in 8:38. Rating: ** 1/2 [Fit Finlay and David Taylor interfered against Konnan.]The leaders of WCW’s Mexican and European contingents faced off before Sunday’s 6-man match. The two were in the middle of a producing a solid match, but once Konnan looked to be getting the advantage, David Taylor and Fit Finlay ran in to attack him causing a disqualification. The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeated The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) when Riggs pinned Sags after a diving elbow smash in 11:04. Rating: * 3/4 (The Ultimate Males retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)The Nasty Boys first came out giving a speech about being overlooked, upset they weren’t included in the tag title match at Uncensored. They had a lot of negative comments about the Ultimate Males, or two young pretty boy punks as they put it. The champs came out and said they don’t care how big another team is, they’re not going to let anyone get away with talking down to them. They offered a fight right then and there. The Males pulled off the victory in the impromptu match, further enraging the Nasty Boys. While the Ultimate Males were leaving, the Nastys stayed in the ring throwing a fit. The Faces of Fear came out to the ramp way. Gene Okerlund caught up with them asking what they were doing out here. Haku responded by saying something in Tongan and pointing at the Nasty Boys in the ring who looked confused. But everyone understood what happened next, as the Faces of Fear marched to the ring and began a vicious fight with the Nasty Boys. Lex Luger defeated Randy Savage by disqualification in 14:38. Rating: ** 3/4 [Vader interfered against Lex Luger.]
Luger went one on one with Randy Savage six days before jumping into the cage with him and Vader for the World Title. Luger had Savage in the torture rack when Vader came down to run in. Luger, though, fought off Vader and Savage and was standing tall.
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Dec 9, 2021 18:12:21 GMT -5
UNCENSORED 96 (March 24, 1996) No-Countout-No-DQ-Match: The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) defeated The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) when Meng pinned Sags with a kick in 13:32. Rating: * 1/4The animosity between these two teams goes back a long ways and came to a head in a violent affair to kick off tonight’s show. The four men brawled all around ringside. Knobbs set up Barbarian on a trash can and tried to go for a flying elbow, but Barbarian moved and Knobbs landed on the trash can. Meanwhile, Sags came into the ring with a chair ready to attack, but Meng caught him, kicking the chair into Sags’ face. David Taylor, Fit Finlay and Lord Steven Regal defeated Konnan, Psicosis and Super Calo when Regal pinned Calo after a dragon suplex in 15:05. Rating: ** ½Lord Steven Regal’s European group picked up a big victory over Konnan’s Mexican contingent. Whether or not they accomplished their mission of proving their style’s supremacy is up for debate since it took Fit Finlay using a pair of brass knuckles, knocking out Super Calo and allowing Regal to hit him with a suplex, to get the job done. Table Triangle Match: Sabu defeated Disco Inferno and Scott Norton. x Norton put Disco through a table in 6:29 x Sabu put Norton through a table in 14:14 Rating: ***While all three men had a strong dislike for each other, Norton and Sabu were at least willing to fight out their differences. Disco rathered hide under the ring and let the other two fight. It worked briefly, but soon the other two caught on with Norton dragging Disco out of his hiding spot by his feet and Sabu splashing down on him with a chair. Norton quickly powerbombed him through a table to eliminate Disco. Sabu and Norton then got a real fight in. Sabu had Norton up against a table leaning in the corner and attempted to run in and splash through it. Norton, however, caught him, turned around and went to power bomb Sabu through it, but Sabu slipped out of it, pickup a chair and threw it at Norton’s head. From there, Sabu set the table up, put Norton on top of it, and delivered an Arabian Facebuster crashing Norton through the table. 15-Man Battle Royal for the vacant WCW UNITED STATES TITLE: Davey Boy Smith won a 15-man Battle Royal: x Candido threw out D. Malenko x Shark threw out Candido x Duggan threw out Regal x Sabu threw out Page x A. Anderson threw out Duggan x A. Anderson threw out Sabu x Konnan threw out Bagwell x E. Guerrero threw out Badd x E. Guerrero threw out A. Anderson x Norton threw out Shark x J. Jarrett threw out Konnan x D.B. Smith threw out Norton x J. Jarrett threw out E. Guerrero x D.B. Smith threw out J. Jarrett Rating: *** 1/4 (Davey Boy Smith won the WCW UNITED STATES TITLE.)For the second time in his career, Davey Boy Smith is the United States champion, tossing out the newest Horseman Jeff Jarrett in the end to win the match. Among others, Eddie Guerrero also had a good run in the match before being eliminated by Jarrett. Earlier in the match, Sabu threw out TV champion Diamond Dallas Page who became livid. Once Sabu was eliminated, DDP came back to ringside and hit Sabu with a Diamond Cutter on the floor. [HAIR VS HAIR]: Ric Flair pinned Steve Austin after a low blow in 20:45. Rating: ***
Flair had been claiming Austin was jealous of Flair and trying to be like him. He even went as far as clipping Austin’s blonde hair, which led to tonight’s match. Flair had his Horsemen, Arn Anderson, Marcus Bagwell and Jeff Jarrett in his corner. To counter, Austin had newly crowned US champion Davey Boy Smith, who’s been having his own problems with the Horsemen in his. The third installment of the Austin/Flair rivalry was another great match. Austin was intent on finally getting past Flair and looked like he would finally do it. He hit Flair with a Stun Gun, but before he could go for the pin, Bagwell and Jarrett pulled Flair out of the ring by his legs. While the referee was talking to them, Anderson tried to sneak into the ring with a chair, but Davey Boy also slipped in the ring holding up his title belt. But as everyone faced off, Smith turned and clocked Austin in the head with the belt. Flair came back in the ring and hit Austin with a low blow for good measure and then pinned him. All four Horsemen, plus Davey Boy Smith, attacked Austin after the match with Flair taking the razor and shaving the head of the nearly unconscious Austin. Four Corners Match: The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeated The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner), The Road Warriors (Hawk and Animal) and Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T): x Stevie Ray pinned S. Steiner in 13:45 x Booker pinned Hawk in 17:03 x Wright pinned Booker in 22:04 Rating: ** 1/2 (The Ultimate Males retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)There was a lot of hatred in the ring between all the teams, especially the three challengers. And it seems, that’s what kept anyone for taking the belts since all three were more focused on each other. The Road Warriors hit their Doomsday Device on Scott Steiner, but Harlem Heat wanted to take the credit for the elimination, attacking the Warriors and then pinning Scott. From there, Heat and the Warriors took aim at each other with Stevie Ray hitting Hawk with a slapjack and Booker getting the pin. Harlem Heat was then left to go after the champs and tried to use the same cheapshot tactics. However, the Warriors refused to sit back and let that happen. They came back to the ring and behind the ref’s back, Animal smacked Booker with a chair. Alex Wright didn’t see what happened, but still covered and pinned Booker to retain the titles. But after the match, after Harlem Heat cleared the ring, the champs were celebrating when two men came out of the stands and brutally attacked them. One was Barry Windham, who had a run in with Alex Wright back during World War 3. The other looked like a clone of Windham, tall and cowboyish. Together they decimated the champs. Gene Okerlund tried to catch up with Windham after the beating. Windham said he owed Alex Wright a butt kicking and tonight was the night before it. He said he noticed Wright picked up a partner since they last met so he found one of his own, someone that reminded him of himself 10 years ago. He introduced his partner as Justin Bradshaw and said we can refer to them as The Unforgiven. Triangle Cage Match for the vacant WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE: Randy Savage defeated Big Van Vader and Lex Luger when Savage pinned Luger with the Flying Elbowdrop in 21:29. Rating: **** 1/4 (Randy Savage won the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)Randy Savage is once again World Champ, beating Vader and Lex Luger inside a cage. While Vader has been a strong ally of Savage, even he was caught off guard when Savage came to the ring with his ex-wife Miss Elizabeth. Despite it being a triangle match, Savage and Vader kept their alliance strong early, but Luger did his best to survive the doubleteam. But soon, Savage and Vader began arguing about who would be the one to put Luger away and the two seemed to agree to fight for it. Late in the match, Miss Elizabeth came into play, pulling out some mace from her purse. Luger was up against the cage after taking out Savage. Vader though was closing in on Luger when Miss Elizabeth went to spray Luger, but Luger ducked and Vader was the one blinded. Luger took down Vader with a vicious forearm. But Savage came from behind striking Luger, knocking him down. Miss Elizabeth then passed the Mace can through the cage to Savage who then sprayed Luger with it and hit him in the head with the can. He went up and hit his flying elbow to pin Luger and win the title. Card rating: *** 1/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Dec 12, 2021 11:44:09 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (March 25, 1996) Interview with the Four HorsemenTo open Nitro, Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Marcus Bagwell, Jeff Jarrett and Davey Boy Smith all came to the ring celebrating Flair’s victory over Steve Austin. He said that chapter is over and done with and now wants to focus on getting back the world title. However, some business needed to be done. They pointed out that anyone that can count can see there’s five men in the ring, but there’s only supposed to be four Horsemen. Arn Anderson turned to Jarrett and said, Jeff, thanks for the help, but Austin needed to see a full Horsemen group so he wouldn’t suspect Davey Boy Smith of turning on him. Jarrett looked puzzled so they made it clearer. The used him and now they no longer need him. Anderson offered him the choice to leave on his own, or to leave with help. Jarrett refused to go so Davey Boy smacked him in the head with his US title belt, much like he did to Steve Austin, and the four all stomped away on Jarrett. [CRUISERWEIGHT TOURNAMENT 1ST ROUND]: Mr. J.L. pinned Juventud Guerrera in 6:56. Rating: **To the surprise of everyone, Johnny B. Badd came to the broadcast table. He was outraged he wasn’t allowed in the tournament since he was 10 pounds too heavy. After J.L.’s win, Badd said it was a travesty that Juventud was able to be in a title tournament instead of him. He then went in the ring and started attacking Juventud. Eventually, Eddie Guerrero ran down and chased Badd off. Badd pointed to Guerrero saying he made a huge mistake. Sabu pinned Diamond Dallas Page with the Triple Jump Moonsault in 7:18. Rating: *** 1/4 (Sabu won the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.) Diamond Dallas Page injured his right knee. He will be out for approximately 4 monthsAfter the events of Uncensored, Page picked Sabu as his next TV title defense. Page said Sabu ruined his road to glory and needed to prove he was the better man. Only one problem, Sabu beat Page. When Page attempted a Diamond Cutter, Sabu fought his way out and shoved Page into the corner, then caught him with a leg lariat as he bounced out. He hit his triple jump moonsault to get the pin and win the title. After the match, Page needed some help as he limped to the back. Lord Steven Regal pinned Jim Duggan after a lariat in 7:16. Rating: ** 1/2Also coming out of Uncensored, Regal challenged Jim Duggan to a match since he eliminated him for the US title battle royal. Regal got the win, again with some help from his friends Fit Finlay and David Taylor. After the match, the three attacked Duggan until Konnan ran down to help Duggan fight the Europeans off. Duggan and Konnan shook hands. Lex Luger pinned Big Van Vader in 14:38. Rating: ** 1/2Randy Savage came out to celebrate his world title victory but the celebration was short lived. His ally Vader came out and said they had a deal that the world title should come down to them two and called out Miss Elizabeth for spraying him with Mace. Lex Luger also came out pointing to Elizabeth’s Mace costing him the match. This turned into an impromptu Luger/Vader match to determine the No. 1 contender. Despite giving up size to Vader, Luger was able to match him in strength. Savage and Elizabeth got involved with Elizabeth distracting the ref while Savage went after Luger with a chair. Only Luger got out of the way and Savage smacked Vader. Luger knocked Savage out of the ring, then pinned Vader. Card rating: ** 1/2 ------------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (April 1, 1996) [CRUISERWEIGHT TOURNAMENT 1ST ROUND]: Eddie Guerrero pinned Jushin Liger after a small package in 9:34. Rating: *** ½The next first round matchup had all indications of being a classic. Unfortunately we didn’t get the clean finish we’d hope for, but fortunately for Guerrero, he was able to overcome Johnny B. Badd’s interference. Toward the end of a grueling match, Liger went for a moonsault on the outside, only to have Guerrero move and Liger crash to the mat. Guerrero rolled back in the ring while the ref checked on Liger. Meanwhile, Johnny B. Badd ran into the ring and sucker punched Guerrero while wearing a boxing glove, knocking him out. Liger didn’t see what happened. Recovered and got back in the ring looking confused. He went to pick Guerrero up, only to have Guerrero roll him up in a small package for the pin. Guerrero advances to the semifinals against Mr. J.L. Barry Windham pinned Alex Wright after a flying clothesline in 5:22. Rating: ***Alex Wright called for a one-on-one match with Barry Windham after the attack at Uncensored. Wright’s the one he has a problem with so let’s settle it just the two of them. Windham’s strength and mean streak had him dominating the match in which he got a quick pin. Afterwards, he and his new partner Justin Bradshaw weren’t satisfied and continued attacking Wright. Scotty Riggs ran down to help, but was also beaten down by the new team, The Unforgiven. Interview with The Faces of FearMeng and The Barbarian come out for an interview with Gene Okerlund who said he heard the team called for this interview to get something off their chest. Meng proceeded to give what seemed to be a passionate speech entirely in Tongan. But what seemed to be clear were the two holding up 1 finger and motioning around their waists. Arn Anderson pinned Jeff Jarrett with the DDT in 7:26. Rating: *** 1/2Jeff Jarrett didn’t take kindly to being used by the Horsemen. He got his first chance at revenge against Arn Anderson but fell victim to Horsemen shenanigans. Chris Candido pinned Disco Inferno in 8:26. Rating: *** ½Candido looked impressive beating Disco Inferno. After the match, The Diamond in the Rough grabbed a mic and said he owes everything he’s become to his mentor, Diamond Dallas Page. He said thanks to Sabu, Page injured his knee last week and will be out of action for a while, but he wants revenge. He challenged the new TV champion Sabu to face him for the title next week so he can bring it home. Lex Luger pinned Ric Flair after a Gorilla Press in 13:38. Rating: ** 1/2Ric Flair took exception to Luger’s position of No. 1 contender he earned by beating Vader last week. He challenged Luger to tonight’s match. But Luger has been around long enough, he’s ready for all the typical Horsemen games trying to steal a match. He also got a bit of aid from Jeff Jarrett. With Flair distracting the ref, Davey Boy Smith went to attack Luger with his US title belt but Jarrett came down grabbing Smith’s leg preventing him from his attack. Luger clotheslined Smith out of the ring, then put Flair away with a slam. After beating Vader and Flair in consecutive weeks, Luger is primed to get a shot at Randy Savage. Card rating: *** 1/4 ----------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (April 8, 1996) Chris Candido pinned Sabu after a powerbomb in 9:15. Rating: *** 1/2 (Chris Candido won the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Chris Candido made a vow to avenge his mentor’s title loss and injury and tonight he made good on it. He did what few have been able to in WCW, tame the wildman Sabu. Sabu and Candido were fighting on the top rope til Sabu kicked him off. He then went for a flying hurricanrana, but Candido caught him and dropped him in a powerbomb. He got the pin and won the title. [CRUISERWEIGHT TOURNAMENT 1ST ROUND]: Dean Malenko made Super Calo submit to the Texas Cloverleaf in 5:15. Rating: ***In the latest first round match, Dean Malenko advanced with a pretty quick victory. He gave a quick interview after saying that this tournament was just a formality. No one can beat him, the title is his. BACKSTAGE FIGHTThe cameras cut to the backstage area where Harlem Heat and the Road Warriors are engaged in an all-out brawl. The four are fighting in and out of the locker rooms and through hallways in the back of the area. Trash cans are picked up and used as weapons. Basically anything not bolted down was used as a weapon. Eventually, officials and other wrestlers came by to break up the fight and finally separate the two sides. Johnny B. Badd pinned Juventud Guerrera with the Tutti Frutti in 7:44. Rating: *** 3/4Badd has been livid he wasn’t included in the Cruiserweight tournament for being 10 pounds too heavy, so he took his frustrations out on Guerrera who lost his first round match and Badd questions how he could be included in a tournament but not him. While Guerrera caught Badd with a couple nice moves, Badd controlled most of the match and ultimately got the win. After, he spoke to Guerrera to tell his buddy Eddie Guerrero to keep his nose out of his business. The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) defeated The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) when Barbarian pinned A. Wright after a belly-to-back suplex in 11:12. Rating: 1/2* (The Faces of Fear won the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)The Ultimate Males were still hurting from several attacks from The Unforgiven over the past few weeks. It was evident early as The Faces of Fear were the fresher team and controlled the early stages. However, the Males weathered the storm and started to mount a comeback, only to have Justin Bradshaw put an end to it when he ran down and hit Alex Wright with a vicious lariat on the floor the ref didn’t see. Wright was easy pickings from there as the Faces of Fear put him away and won the world titles. Fit Finlay and David Taylor defeated Jim Duggan and Konnan when Taylor pinned Duggan after hitting him with a foreign object in 0:19:05. Rating: ** 1/2Lord Steven Regal sent his two friends to fight his two enemies who’ve newly aligned. Despite being their first team teaming together, Duggan and Konnan worked well together, but a shot from what appeared to be brass knuckles gave the Europeans the win. Interview with Randy Savage and Lex LugerWorld champion Randy Savage and Lex Luger were together in the ring in a joint interview. Savage pointed out everyone who tried to challenge him he sent away. Hogan ran away to make movies and Sting is still in a hospital bed. Luger said he will be the one to end Savage’s reign of terror. He’s standing up for Sting, for Hogan and everyone Savage has stepped on to get where he is. The two went back and forth and they agreed not to wait to settle this. Next week on Nitro they’ll meet for the World Title! Card rating: ** 1/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Dec 20, 2021 20:58:27 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (April 15, 1996) Parking Lot FightThe show opens with the Road Warriors pulling into the parking lot in their car. Immediately, Harlem Heat ambushes them and a brawl commences in the parking lot. The Road Warriors were getting the best of things, but Animal went to whip Booker T into the car but Booker reverses it and sends Animal into the car. He then opened the car door and pounded on Animal until he was half in and half out of the car. Booker then slammed the open door a couple times on Animal’s exposed ribs until finally, officials chased them away as they checked on Animal. [CRUISERWEIGHT TOURNAMENT 1ST ROUND]: Ultimo Dragon made Psychosis submit to The Dragon Sleeper in 8:11. Rating: ****Dragon made his WCW debut in the final cruiserweight first round tournament match. He had a classic with Psychosis that he finally put away with his Dragon Sleeper hold. He advances to face The Iceman Dean Malenko in the semifinals. The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) defeated The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) when Bradshaw pinned Sags with the Lariat in 8:35. Rating: *** 1/4After a few weeks of brutal attacks on the Ultimate Males, The new team of The Unforgiven made their official in-ring debut. They were just as impressive in an official match as they were in sneak attacks. Longtime WCW fans are well familiar with what Barry Windham can do in the ring, but his rookie partner Justin Bradshaw opened eyes showcasing a combination of size, strength, speed and technical prowess. Interview with The Faces of FearIt was promoted ahead of time, that new tag champions, The Faces of Fear would host a victory party tonight and give their victory speech. Meng and The Barbarian came into a ring consisting of a podium and 1 inflatable palm tree. Meng got behind the podium, spoke for a minute in a speech entirely in Tongan, then the two raised their belts in the air and left. Arn Anderson and Marcus Alexander Bagwell defeated Jeff Jarrett and Ricky Steamboat when A. Anderson pinned Steamboat after a DDT in 12:26. Rating: *** ¾ Jeff Jarrett was still out for revenge on the Horsemen, so they challenged him to find any partner to face them in a tag team match. Jarrett surprised just about everybody by revealing his partner as one of Ric Flair’s oldest rivals, Ricky Steamboat. Steamboat proved to be a good choice as he worked well with Jarrett and they gave the Horsemen duo of Anderson and Bagwell a heck of a match. However, it wasn’t enough as the Horsemen pulled it out. Lex Luger defeated Randy Savage when Randy Savage passed out in the Torture Rack in 16:33. Rating: *** 1/4 (Lex Luger won the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)Lex Luger is the NEW World Champion after a very physical match against Randy Savage. Luger overcame Miss Elizabeth’s presence at ringside. He was maced at one point in the match allowing Savage to set him up for his flying elbow. But even a temporarily blinded Luger was able to roll out of the way as Savage crashed down to the empty mat. Luger cleared his eyes and went on the offensive. This brought out Savage’s partner Vader who watched from the entrance way. Luger went to get Savage in the torture rack, but Savage inadvertently kicked the ref. He then lowblowed Luger and everyone was down. Savage motioned for Vader to come to the ring, but instead, Vader turned around and walked to the back. Savage looked a combination of shocked and upset. Luger got back to his feet and nailed Savage with a couple clotheslines. At the referee got back to his feet, Luger put Savage in the rack and the ref called for the bell, awarding Luger the world title! Card rating: *** 3/4 ------------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (April 22, 1996) Big Van Vader pinned Mike Enos with the Vader Bomb in 3:05. Rating: ***Vader opened the show with a dominant win over Mike Enos. But as soon as the bell rang, Randy Savage stormed the ring with a mic demanding to know what Vader was thinking and where we went last week when Savage needed him. Vader responded that they formed their partnership to be a two-way street, but over the last few months, Vader has been giving everything and receiving nothing and he was tired of it. He refuses to do Savage’s dirty work anymore. He slammed the mic into Savage’s chest and left the ring. The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) and Hawk defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) and Scott Norton when S. Steiner pinned Norton with the Frankensteiner in 13:43. Rating: ** ¾ After Harlem Heat assaulted the Road Warriors injuring Animal last week, the Steiners offered to stand by Hawk’s side and challenged Harlem Heat to get a partner and face them in a 6-man match. Harlem Heat recruited Scott Norton to their side, but as soon as times got rough in the match, Harlem Heat abandoned Norton, leaving him to suffer the defeat. Interview with Chris CandidoThe New TV Champion talked to Gene Okerlund. He said he owes everything to his mentor Diamond Dallas Page and will follow DDP’s model of how to become a legendary champion. He said he will fight the biggest and baddest to become one of the best champions of all time. Hearing these words, Shark came out and joined the interview saying they don’t get bigger or badder than him. If Candido really wants to prove something, meet him in the ring next week. Jim Duggan pinned Fit Finlay with the Three Point Stance in 7:00. Rating: *Duggan scored an impressive win over one of Steven Regal’s friends in Fit Finlay. After, Duggan challenged Regal to face him like a man, one on one at the upcoming Slamboree PPV. Ric Flair defeated Jeff Jarrett when Jeff Jarrett passed out in the Figure-Four Leglock in 13:20. Rating: *** ½ Flair before the match spoke in the back with his Horsemen alongside him, saying he’s going to tie up the final loose end tonight by taking care of Jeff Jarrett then going after Lex Luger. He said the WCW title has always been his. He made the title and soon it will be his again. Jarrett fought with a lot of emotion against Flair for everything the Horsemen have put him through. But there were still 4 of them against him. Davey Boy Smith got involved smacking Jarrett with his US title belt while the others had the ref distracted, which led to Flair putting Jarrett in the Figure Four until he couldn’t respond. After the match, the other Horsemen entered the ring stomping away at Jarrett while Flair grabbed the mic and again called out Luger. Card rating: ** 3/4 ----------------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (April 29, 1996) In-ring Interview with Lex LugerTo open the show, Gene Okerlund was in the ring and then brought in the new world heavyweight champion Lex Luger. Luger came out with the big gold belt around his waist. He pointed out he went through everyone to get this, Flair, Vader and Savage. He doesn’t know who’s first to come after it, but he said he’s ready for any challenge. Ric Flair came out and said he’s been ignored for title matches for too long. His name is synonymous with the WCW title and is ready to take it back. Savage came out next saying he’s owed a title rematch, but Vader also came out saying Savage was only in the position he was in because of him. The three then kept arguing amongst themselves to which Luger told everyone to figure it out and then he’ll see whoever’s left standing. [CRUISERWEIGHT TOURNAMENT SEMIFINALS]: Eddie Guerrero pinned Mr. J.L. with the Frog Splash in 9:41. Rating: *** 1/4The first of two Cruiserweight title semifinals saw Eddie Guerrero advance, despite Johnny B. Badd once again trying to get involved. Badd was at ringside and JL tried to whip Guerrero into Badd who was waiting for a loaded punch. But Guerrero reversed it. JL stopped short of Badd, but Guerrero dropkicked JL into Badd, knocking him to the ground. Guerrero then hit his frog splash to advance to the finals at Slamboree against the winner of next week’s Dean Malenko/Ultimo Dragon match. Backstage attackThe Steiner Brothers were getting interviewed backstage about tonight’s match against Harlem Heat in a top contenders match. But Harlem Heat ambushed the Steiners, brutally attacking the two and leaving them laid out in the back. Chris Candido pinned Shark after a DDT in 8:41. Rating: * 1/2 (Chris Candido retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Candido definitely wasn’t backing down from this massive challenge. Despite giving up size and strength, he weathered an early storm then used his speed advantage to take over the match. He delivered an array of quick hitting moves, then put Shark away with a DDT. Arn Anderson and Marcus Alexander Bagwell defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) when A. Anderson pinned Booker with the DDT in 11:57. Rating: *** 1/4Anderson and Bagwell came to the ring when no one even expected them. They said if the Steiners can’t make it for the No. 1 contenders match, they’ll be happy to step in. Harlem Heat came out next saying they don’t care who’s in the ring, they’ll take them out then go be champions once again. The match was pretty even until Hawk came to ringside and caused a ruckus. Everyone was temporarily distracted and no one saw a bandaged up Animal come out of the crowd and into the ring with a lead pipe. He used it to lay out Harlem Heat and then left. Anderson capitalized, hitting Booker T with a DDT for good measure. The Horsemen earned the right to face The Faces of the Fear for the titles. Triangle Match: Ric Flair defeated Big Van Vader and Randy Savage when Flair pinned Savage in 10:55. Rating: ** 1/2All three were willing to pull out all the stops to earn a title shot against Lex Luger. The developing issues between Vader and Savage boiled over in the match, while it seemed like Flair was willing to let those two take each other out. Sure enough, Vader put Savage down with a vicious powerbomb but before he could go for the pin, Flair clipped out his knee and then crawled on top of Savage. While the ref started to count, Anderson and Bagwell could be seen holding on to Vader’s legs, keeping him from breaking up the pin. This let Flair get a pin and put him in line for a title shot against Luger.
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Dec 30, 2021 12:15:18 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (May 6, 1996) [CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE TOURNAMENT SEMIFINALS] Dean Malenko made Ultimo Dragon submit to the Texas Cloverleaf in 14:42. Rating: *** 3/4Dean Malenko earned the right to face his old rival Eddie Guerrero to determine the first WCW Cruiserweight Champion. He had a classic fight against Ultimo Dragon out of Japan before finally putting him away with his Texas Cloverleaf hold. Interview with The Faces of Fear
The tag champions came out for an interview about their recently signed title defense against the Horsemen. As usual, Meng gave the entire interview in Tongan, but he was interrupted by Arn Anderson and Marcus Bagwell attacking them from behind. The sneak attack gave them an edge in the fight and Anderson and Bagwell hit Double DDTs on each member of the Faces of Fear. The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) defeated The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) when Bradshaw pinned S. Steiner after hitting him with the ring bell in 11:40. Rating: *** 1/4The Unforgiven have been running through everybody in their way since emerging in WCW. Though their main targets have been the Ultimate Males, they’ve been destroying everyone that’s crossed their path. Tonight, they finally found a team that wouldn’t let them run through them - The Steiner Brothers. The Steiners took everything The Unforgiven could dish out and gave it right back to them. In the end, while Windham had the referee’s attention, Bradshaw snuck in the ring bell and smacked Scott Steiner with it, helping him get the win. After the match, the victors kept stomping away at the Steiners. Finally, the Ultimate Males ran down to fight off their rivals, and for the first time in weeks, they were getting the upperhand on the Texas duo. Johnny B. Badd pinned Mr. J.L. with the Tutti Frutti in 6:48. Rating: ** 1/4After their miscommunication played a role in JL getting eliminated from the Cruiserweight tournament, JL and Badd fought tonight with Badd controlling most of the match before getting the win. Badd spoke after the match saying it’s a crime that some Cruiserweight will be able to hold a title instead of him. He said the weight limit was purposely placed as low as it was to exclude him. He put an open challenge to any cruiserweight to face him. Interview with Chris CandidoThe TV Champ again said he’s drawing inspiration from his mentor Diamond Dallas Page who taught him to be the best he has to beat the best. He issued a challenge to any former TV Champion to face him next week so he can prove he belongs at the top of the list of great champions. Non-title match Lex Luger defeated Davey Boy Smith by disqualification in 10:15. Rating: *** 1/4 [Ric Flair interfered against Lex Luger.]The World Champion Luger and US champion Smith, old rivals, faced off tonight with neither’s belts on the line. But the match was mostly a ploy to weaken Luger ahead of his title defense against Ric Flair. The Horsemen all rushed the ring to jump Luger causing the disqualification, but no one seemed to care. They were going after Luger’s knee, but then Jeff Jarrett ran out from the back with a chair in hand and helped Luger fight off the Horsemen. Luger and Jarrett stood tall in the ring and the Horsemen retreated. The two shared an uneasy look as Luger didn’t seem totally convinced he could trust Jarrett. Gene Okerlund went into the ring with the two while all Four Horsemen stood at the entranceway. Jarrett said it doesn’t matter what Luger might think of him, they got a common enemy and if Luger needs someone to watch his back, he will be there. Luger wasn’t totally sure he could trust Jarrett but said if anyone knows how the Horsemen operate it’s him as he’s been dealing with them going back 10 years. But he will fight alongside any other enemy of the Horsemen, and then shook Jarrett’s hand. Card rating: *** ------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (May 13, 1996) Johnny B. Badd pinned Jushin Liger after a sunset flip in 6:48. Rating: *** 1/2Badd challenged any Cruiserweight to face him and Jushin Liger answered that challenge. Badd, though, got a cheap win catching a sunset flip then holding on to the rope for extra leverage. He said afterwards he’s proud to prove his superiority over the Cruiserweights, but that wasn’t the one he hoped accepted his challenge. He wishes Eddie Guerrero would be a man and face him. This brought out Guerrero who began to walk to the ring to address Badd, but he was blindsided by Dean Malenko, who he’s scheduled to face in the Cruiserweight title tournament finals next week at Slamboree. Malenko clipped Guerrero’s knee out and kept working on it, while Badd just stood in the ring laughing. Interview with Lex Luger and Jeff JarrettGene Okerlund interviewed the unlikely pairing of Luger and Jarrett about a tag match tonight against the Horsemen. Luger emphasized the same stance he declared last week, he’ll ally with any enemy of the Horsemen. The duo talked about how they realize it’s going to be tough just the two of them knowing all four will be lurking about. At that moment, the world tag champion Faces of Fear came out to interrupt the interview. Meng spoke something in Tongan that no one could understand, but then they reached out their hands and shook with Luger and Jarrett. It was later announced the main event tonight will be an 8-man tag. Chris Candido pinned Junkyard Dog with the Blonde Bombshell in 7:45. Rating: * (Chris Candido retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Chris Candido put out a challenge to any former TV champion and it was answered by the Junkyard Dog. Candido was caught off guard a bit at first, but weathered JYD’s early storm to pick up the win. After the match, he opened up his challenge even more, saying anybody who has ever been a champion in any league can step up to challenge him at Slamboree. Randy Savage pinned Shark with the Flying Elbowdrop in 6:18. Rating: ** 1/4Randy Savage wanted to show he wasn’t scared of Vader and that it didn’t matter how big or strong an opponent is. He used Shark as his example that he could beat a bigger opponent, but after the match, once Vader appeared at the entryway, Savage instead left through the crowd then to cross paths with his former partner. The Four Horsemen (Arn Anderson, Ric Flair, Davey Boy Smith and Marcus Bagwell) defeated The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian), Lex Luger and Jeff Jarrett when A. Anderson pinned Barbarian with the DDT in 15:54. Rating: **It was perhaps the most unlikely of foursomes going up against the premier group in WCW’s history. You could see a lack of trust on several participants, most notably Luger’s. But as the match wore on, things began to get more cohesive on his side. The climax was a chaotic scene that saw Luger and Flair fighting on the floor, and Jarrett and Davey Boy spill into the stands. But in all the madness, Marcus Bagwell grabbed Davey Boy’s US title belt that was sitting at ringside, and smacked The Barbarian in the head with it, sending him into an Arn Anderson DDT. After the finish, the Horsemen regrouped in the center of the ring, all standing together celebrating their big win with Slamboree right around the corner.
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 1, 2022 12:41:50 GMT -5
SLAMBOREE '96 (May 19, 1996) Match for the vacant WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE: Dean Malenko made Eddie Guerrero submit to the Texas Cloverleaf in 16:24. Rating: **** 1/4 (Dean Malenko won the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)No one knew if Malenko and Guerrero could live up to their first WCW match back at Starrcade, but they produced another classic. While Guerrero won that first encounter, he was slowed this time around by an injured knee that Malenko attacked last week at Nitro. While Guerrero powered through the injury, it ended up being too much to take. Malenko put him in the Texas Cloverleaf for over 2 full minutes before Guerrero finally gave in. The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) defeated The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) when Bradshaw pinned S. Riggs with the Lariat in 10:01. Rating: ** 1/4Since they arrived as a team in WCW, the Unforgiven has put the Ultimate Males firmly in their crosshairs. They finally met in the ring, no sneak attacks this time. While the Males’ athleticism helped them out, the two Texans were too much. Lord Steven Regal defeated Jim Duggan when Jim Duggan passed out in The Regal stretch in 8:02. Rating: * ¼Regal has been out to prove the superiority of his European style over all others. Jim Duggan challenged to represent the USA, but Regal forced him to pass out. Chris Candido pinned Honky Tonk Man after a diving headbutt in :06. Rating: * (Chris Candido retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Candido laid out an open challenge to any past champion from any promotion. It was answered by none other than the Honky Tonk Man. Candido stood in the ring while Honky danced his way to the ring then began to play his theme song on his guitar. Candido got tired of waiting, grabbing the guitar out of Honky’s hands then smashing him over the head with it. The ref told Candido he couldn’t do that. Candido said the bell hadn’t rung yet so he couldn’t be DQed. The ref agreed, rang the bell and Candido pinned Honky. [PARKING LOT BRAWL]: Falls-Count-Anywhere Match: Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) defeated The Road Warriors (Hawk and Animal) when Booker pinned Animal with the Axe Kick 13:53. Rating: ** 3/4There has been a lot of animosity built up between these two teams over the past few months. It all came to a head. The Road Warriors were a bit weakened after recent attacks from Harlem Heat, but despite being taped up, they took the fight right to them. The match was brutal and both teams were bloodied as any weapon laying around, plus various cars stationed in the lot were used. In the end, Booker T came off the hood of a car with a crushing axe kick that got the win. Davey Boy Smith pinned Jeff Jarrett with the Running Powerslam in 11:12. Rating: *** 3/4 (Davey Boy Smith retained the WCW UNITED STATES TITLE.)Jarrett came out a house on fire looking to get revenge on Smith and take his title. Smith almost had to leave to regroup with fellow Horsemen Anderson and Bagwell until Jarrett ran down, hit everyone and drug Davey Boy back into the match. Jarrett put Davey Boy into the Figure Four but the Horsemen did Horsemen things. Anderson distracted the ref while Bagwell came off the top rope with a leg drop on Jarrett. Smith got to his feet, picked up Jarrett and hit him with a powerslam to retain his title. The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) defeated Arn Anderson and Marcus Bagwell when Meng pinned Bagwell in 12:50. Rating: 3/4* (The Faces of Fear retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)While the three were celebrating Davey Boy’s win, the Faces of Fear came out, Meng began speaking Tongan, then the champs charged the ring and it appeared the tag title match was starting then and there. The power of the champs gave them an early edge, but the willingness of the Horsemen to take any cheap shot they can turned the match. But the Faces of Fear came back. And although the Horsemen again tried to go cheap, Anderson distracted the ref while Bagwell brought in a chair, but Meng kicked the chair into Bagwell’s face knocking him out and allowing the Champs to retain. Big Van Vader pinned Randy Savage with the Vader Bomb in 17:20. Rating: ***Vader had enough of not getting anything out of his partnership with Savage and blamed him for his recent losses to Luger. He began taking out all his frustrations on Savage tonight. Savage knew he couldn’t match strength with Vader so he used a combination of speed, cheap shots and Miss Elizabeth at ringside to get an advantage. But all that combined wasn’t enough to stop Vader who overpowered Savage and got the win. Lex Luger pinned Ric Flair in 21:41. Rating: *** 3/4 (Lex Luger retained the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)The Total Package knew defending his title against Ric Flair meant the three other Horsemen were gonna do everything possible to ensure Flair wins the title. The match went back and forth with minimal interference thanks to Jeff Jarrett keeping an eye on things at ringside. Luger got Ric Flair up in the torture rack but Flair’s legs caught the ref in the head. Flair was submitting but with no ref to count it. Luger went to go check on the ref, but Flair hit him low from behind. Meanwhile, Anderson DDTed the ref to keep him down while the Horsemen pounced on Luger. Jarrett was no help as the numbers engulfed him too. The Horsemen used chairs and title belts to knock out their adversaries. With the ref down, Jarrett out on the floor and Luger knocked out, Flair went to go to revive the ref so he could count the pin. But then out of nowhere, the sound of glass shattering could be heard and as the music began, it was Steve Austin running down to the ring. Austin sported a much different look than we’ve grown accustomed to. His head was fully shaved and he had a goatee. But he was also intense as ever. He plowed through Anderson, Bagwell and Smith to get into the ring. Once there, he ran over Flair and starting pounding away at the Horsemen’s leader. He picked up Flair and hit him with a facebuster. Austin left the ring, the ref recovered and Luger crawled on top of Flair for the pin to retain his title. Card rating: ** 3/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 7, 2022 10:21:42 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (May 20, 1996) Interview with the Four HorsemenNitro opened up with all four Horsemen in the ring standing side by side as an angry Ric Flair spoke, claiming he was robbed of the world title and demanded another match with Luger. At the same time he complained about Steve Austin’s return. But all four couldn’t see Austin sneaking in from the crowd, climbing over a set of four empty front row seats, picking up one of the chairs as he climbed over the guardrail and slid into the ring behind the Horsemen. He swung it and smacked Flair in the back. He went to the far left side of the line and smacked Bagwell in the face with it, then to the other side and hit Davey Boy in the face. He then jabbed Arn Anderson in the ribs with it then smacked him in the back. With everyone now down, he repeatedly pounded on Flair with the chair. He then threw it down and picked up the mic. Austin said “You thought you got rid of me, you wanted to take out Stunning Steve Austin. Well congratulations you son of bitch. You did it. Stunning Steve Austin is gone, but now here to stay is Stone Cold Steve Austin.” He hit everyone with the chair one more time before leaving. Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) defeated The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) when Booker pinned Riggs with the Axe Kick in 8:07. Rating: ** 1/2After beating the Road Warriors in their grudge match last night, Harlem Heat wants to get back into the picture for the world tag titles. After beating the team that took the belts away from them, they called out the new champs Faces of Fear. The Faces of Fear came out, and as has been typical, they responded with a string of words in Tongan. Chris Candido pinned Disco Inferno with the Blonde Bombshell in 7:52. Rating: ** 1/2 (Chris Candido retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Candido had yet another successful title defense, this time beating Disco Inferno. After the match, Diamond Dallas Page came to the ring on crutches. Candido let him in the ring and proudly showed off his title belt to his mentor, only to have DDP slap it away. DDP said he made the TV title one of the most prestigious in the sport and claimed Candido is throwing his hard work away. He railed against Candido for fighting against, as he put it “fossils and comedy acts.” Page’s hit list included Great Muta, Johnny B. Badd, Ricky Steamboat, Eddie Guerrero, while Candido’s has Shark and Honky Tonk Man. DDP challenged Candido to be more like him, find the best and beat the best to become a truly great champion. Konnan pinned Lord Steven Regal after a sitdown faceslam in 11:11. Rating: *** 1/4A continuation at what’s become a pretty intense feud, Konnan scored another victory over Regal. Afterwards, as Konnan was getting his hand raised in victory, he was blindsided by Chris Candido who started pummeling the Mexican Champion. Candido said he was now taking after Page, the greatest champion he’s known. He’s picking out the best to fight and wants Konnan. Backstage with the HorsemenFlair found WCW Commissioner Nick Bockwinkle in the back, asking what he’s gonna do about his title shot and about this madman Austin running around. Bockwinkle said Flair’s right, there was so much interference in the title match at Slamboree, there should be another match with a clear winner, and Flair won’t have to worry about Austin next week when he faces Luger for the title in a steel cage. Big Van Vader pinned Jeff Jarrett with the Vader Bomb in 11:55. Rating: *** 3/4After beating Randy Savage, Vader said he wants the world title. To send a message to Luger, he’s going to take out any friend Luger may have. Luger doesn’t have many, but Jarrett is close enough. Vader made an example of Jarrett, hitting a couple Vader Bombs before finally putting Double J away. As the show ended, Vader was seen screaming into the camera pointing to Jarrett and saying that’s going to be Luger. Card rating: *** 1/2 -------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (May 27, 1996) La Parka, Psychosis and Villano IV defeated Super Calo, Lizmark Jr. and Juventud Guerrera when La Parka pinned Lizmark Jr. after a powerslam in 8:02. Rating: ***Nitro has been extended to a two-hour show each week beginning with tonight’s broadcast. The supersized show opened with a 6-man Luchador match that was high-flying and highly entertaining. At one point, Psychosis was up against the railing when Juventud flew at him knocking both men over into the crowd. Fortunately, it was at a spot where there were four empty front row seats. La Parka earned the win for his team catching Lizmark Jr. coming off the top rope with a powerslam. Booker T pinned The Barbarian with the Axe Kick in 9:56. Rating: ** ¾Harlem Heat wants a shot at The Faces of Fear and the world tag titles. But tonight in singles action, the brothers made a statement when Booker T picked up a win over The Barbarian. Glacier pinned Van Hammer after the Cryonic Kick in 7:36. Rating: ** 1/4Tonight saw the debut of a heavily promoted rookie, Glacier, who uses a mix of wrestling and martial arts. Glacier came to the ring with a spectacular entrance with blue and white laser lights and “snow” falling around ringside. In his debut match, Glacier was impressive in getting a win over a returning Van Hammer, putting him away with a vicious kick to the head. Konnan defeated Chris Candido by disqualification in 13:19. Rating: *** 1/2 (Chris Candido retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.) [Lord Steven Regal interfered against Konnan.]Candido showed a bit more aggressive side than we’ve been accustomed to seeing from him, which was needed against a wrestler Konnan’s calibur. The two delivered a great match which sadly was left inconclusive. Candido was in control, but Konnan countered an attempted top-rope powerbomb into a facebuster. But with both men down, Steve Regal ran in and started pounding away at Konnan causing a DQ. This upset Candido who wanted to beat Konnan and blamed Regal for costing him the chance. Regal told Candido if he wanted to face the best, Regal claimed to be the greatest TV champ of all-time. Candido challenged him for next week, Regal accepted, then the two began brawling. Johnny B. Badd defeated Chavo Guerrero Jr. by disqualification in 9:01. Rating: * 1/4 [Eddie Guerrero interfered against Johnny B. Badd.]Badd came to the ring and called out Eddie Guerrero. He said while they have unfinished business to settle, he realizes Guerrero is still hurt and it wouldn’t be fair to fight tonight. So Badd said he found an opponent to fill Guerrero’s spot. Eddie asked who, but didn’t like the answer as his nephew Chavo Guerrero Jr. came to the ring. Badd dominated the inexperienced Chavo as Eddie looked on. But despite being in control, Badd refused to end the match instead kept hitting moves on Chavo. Finally, Eddie rushed the ring to attack Badd ending the match. But with his hurt knee, Badd was able to handle Eddie and ended up leaving both Guerreros lying in the ring. The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) and The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) battled to a double countout in 12:01. Rating: *** ½This was a return match from a few weeks ago that the Unforgiven won by using the ring bell. This time, the fight between the two spilled out of the ring and onto the floor where both teams were more concerned with wailing away on the other instead of getting back in the ring. Cage Match: Lex Luger made Ric Flair submit to the Torture Rack in 11:43. Rating: *** 3/4 (Lex Luger retained the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)While the cage kept Stone Cold Steve Austin from attacking Flair, it also kept the Horsemen from interfering as well. That didn’t stop Flair at one point, though, for trying to call for backup. Only no one came. Instead, shots of the Horsemen locker room were shown with Anderson, Bagwell and Davey Boy all laid out. Austin then came out from the back with a chair and a cooler. He put the chair up in the entryway, opened a beer and sat there to watch the match. Flair was incensed, but it did little good. With the match closed out to any outside help, Luger put away Flair, making him submit to the Torture Rack. Rick Rude comes to broadcast areaAs announcers Eric Bischoff, Bobby Heenan and Steve “Mongo” Michael were closing out the broadcast, in an unexpected appearance, former 3-time world champ Rick Rude came to the broadcast area and grabbed a mic. “It’s been almost two years since I’ve been in a WCW ring. And no, this isn’t my illustrious return. Nobody invited me here, nobody even knew I was coming. But here I am. If you want to know where I’ve been all this time, I’ll tell you. In my last match working for this company, I broke my back. I went home to rest and try to recover and see if I was able to come back. But I soon realized my in-ring career was over. And while I was home, laid up, how did WCW decide to reward me for the years I’ve put into this company? I get a pink slip coming to my door via Fed Ex. In the eyes of the new executive vice president Eric Bischoff, if I couldn’t get in the ring, I was worthless. That was the day I decided, to hell with WCW. My mission was once to get back in the ring and win more titles, but that’s changed. My mission now is to burn this company to the ground. I am declaring war on WCW. My army is ready. Is yours?” With that, Rude threw the mic at Bischoff on commentary and walked out. Card rating: ***
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 14, 2022 19:15:02 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (June 3, 1996) Animal defeated Shark by disqualification in 9:17. Rating: 1/2* [Scott Norton interfered against Animal.]With his partner injured during their match at Slamboree, Animal was going for a singles run. There are some that aren’t taking kindly to him being around and included in that is Scott Norton. Norton ran in during the match and began attacking Animal. Rick Rude arrivesMuch like in previous weeks, there was a set of four empty front row seats right next to ringside. Early in the night, Rick Rude came down through the crowd and sat in one of the seats. Dean Malenko made Mr. J.L. submit to the Texas Cloverleaf in 6:13. Rating: ** 1/2 (Dean Malenko retained the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)Malenko retained his title with a dominant win over JL. It was also announced that Malenko’s next defense will be at The Great American Bash against the man who nearly knocked Malenko out of the Cruiserweight tournament, Ultimo Dragon. Eddie Guerrero and Chavo Guerrero Jr. defeated Johnny B. Badd and Ricky Steamboat when E. Guerrero pinned Steamboat after a Frog Splash in 7:49. Rating: ***
After last week’s encounter with Eddie Guerrero and his nephew Chavo, Johnny B. Badd turned to his old friend Ricky Steamboat to partner against him. Steamboat agreed, not because he supports Badd, but because he feels Badd has got down the wrong path since they stopped teaming up. During the match, Badd did a few cheapshots that drew Steamboat’s ire. When Steamboat tried to admonish him, Badd sucker punched him and left. The Guerreros went on to win the match, but after helped Steamboat up and helped him to the back. Lord Steven Regal and Chris Candido battled to a draw in 15:00. Rating: *** (Chris Candido retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)The champion Candido threw out the challenge for this match and Regal, a four-time former champion gladly accepted. While Konnan has been Regal’s biggest rival lately and has unfinished business with Candido, he chose to take the route of letting the match play out, but watching it from the ramp. However, nothing was settled anyway as the 15-minute time limit couldn’t produce a winner. The Boss pinned Prince Iaukea with the Boss Slam in 3:11. Rating: ** 1/4Over the past few weeks, we’ve been seeing vignettes of The Boss undergoing a change from his law and order police officer persona to a mafia mob boss. The new Boss re-debuted tonight against a WCW rookie Prince Iaukea who could do little against the bigger, stronger Boss. Randy Savage comes to the ringAfter his diatribe last week, Rick Rude has been quiet simply sitting in his seat watching the show. But out of nowhere, Randy Savage came to ringside and grabbed a mic and went right in front of Rude. “Rick Rude, the two of us have never crossed paths. I came to WCW two years ago, right at the time you left. The last two years, this place has been my home. There have been some ups and downs, there’s a lot of people here I don’t see eye-to-eye with, but through it all, I bleed WCW colors. So if you got a problem with WCW, you got a problem with me. You’re upset with WCW cause you got hurt in a match? Take a freaking Advil and get over yourself. You say you got an army, all I see is you, me and an open ring.” Rude’s calm expression never changed during Savage’s speech. He then reached for the mic and Savage handed it to him. “You have absolutely no idea what’s going on around here, or the hornet’s nest you’re about to kick up. We’ll see you next week.” Rude then threw the mic back at Savage, got out of his seat and left. The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) defeated David Taylor and Fit Finlay when Barbarian pinned Finlay after a kick to the head in 7:33. Rating: * (The Faces of Fear retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)The world tag champs had another successful title defense, however the celebration didn’t last long. Almost immediately after the final bell rang, Harlem Heat rushed the ring and attacked the champs. Arn Anderson, Davey Boy Smith and Marcus Alexander Bagwell defeated The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) and Jeff Jarrett when D.B. Smith pinned J. Jarrett with the Running Powerslam in 15:49. Rating: ***For tonight’s main event, Jeff Jarrett teamed with old Horsemen enemies, the Steiners. But the brothers have new problems of their own with Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw, the Unforgiven. Midway through the match, the Unforgiven showed up and fought the Steiners all the way to the back, essentially leaving Jarrett in a 3-on-1 situation. The Horsemen easily put away their nemesis to win the match but then kept stomping away at Jarrett after the bell. That was until the glass shattered and Stone Cold Steve Austin ran down to the ring. Austin hit, what he’s calling Stone Cold Stunners on all the Horsemen leaving them laying. Jarrett got up and tried to offer Austin his hand, but Austin gave Jarrett a stunner as well. With everyone out in the ring, Austin climbed to the second turnbuckle, someone threw him a beer and he drank it before raising his hands up victoriously. Card rating: ** 1/4 -------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (June 10, 1996) The show opens with a shot of Rick Rude sitting next to three open seats in the front row ringside as the announcers talk about Rude’s rant two weeks ago and Randy Savage confronting him last week. Johnny B. Badd pinned Ricky Steamboat with the Tutti Frutti in 13:50. Rating: ***After last week’s developments while they were partners, Steamboat asked for a shot at Badd one-on-one to “smack some sense into him.” Instead, it looked like Badd was able to load up a glove and knock his former partner out with one punch. Glacier pinned Fit Finlay with the Cryonic Kick in 7:21. Rating: ** ½ Back again with his spectacular entrance, Glacier again posted an impressive win, using his custom martial arts and wrestling combination style to beat the brawler Fit Finlay. Villano IV and Villano V defeated Lizmark Jr. and Super Calo when Villano IV made Calo submit to the Quebradora En Todo Lo Alto in 10:08. Rating: *** 1/4In luchador tag team action, Los Villanos got the best of their opponents in a fast-paced, high flying tag match, though ended it with a submission. Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) and The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) defeated The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) and The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) when Bradshaw pinned The Barbarian with the Lariat in 12:23. Rating: ** ½Four of the top tag teams in the world faced off in a wild 8-man match in which none of the teams seemed to work well with their partners. The match was very physical and very intense, but in the end, the Booker T thought he was putting The Barbarian away after his axe kick, and in the process giving Heat momentum ahead of their world title shot at the Great American Bash. But instead, Barbarian was trying to rise to his feet while Booker was celebrating his kick. Bradshaw blind tagged himself into the match and hit Barbarian with a vicious clothesline for the pin. After, the Unforgiven and Harlem Heat had a stare down in the middle of the ring before their opponents recovered and a brawl recommenced. Handicap-Match: Big Van Vader defeated Juventud Guerrera and Mr. J.L. when Vader pinned J. Guerrera with the Vader Bomb in 6:56. Rating: **Vader will challenge Lex Luger for the world title at the Bash. His tune-up was facing two Luchadores at the same time. If you put JL and Juventud together, you might equal the mass of Vader. The big man squashed the two, aiming to make a statement to Luger. Lex Luger and Jeff Jarrett defeated Davey Boy Smith and Arn Anderson when J. Jarrett pinned D.B. Smith after a small package in 11:44. Rating: *** 1/4Speaking of the world champ, he teamed with his newest friend Jeff Jarrett against two of the Horsemen. Jarrett had a lot to prove, being in the ring with Davey Boy Smith as the two will meet in a cage for the US title at the Great American Bash. Ric Flair had been paranoid of if and from where Stone Cold Steve Austin would strike. Flair was stationed on the entry ramp during the match and Bagwell was patrolling ringside looking in the crowd. Toward the end of the match, The Glass shattered signaling Stone Cold’s music. Bagwell and Flair took positions, but no one saw Stone Cold come out from under the ring. He came up behind Bagwell and Stunned him, then ran to where Flair was on the rampway and starting brawling with him all the way to the back. Meanwhile, after the chaos, Jarrett hit a small package to pin Davey Boy. Randy Savage comes to the ringAfter all the chaos, Randy Savage came down to the ring with a mic and again confronted Rude, who again had just been sitting peacefully in the front row all night. Savage asked Rude if he’s for his fight yet Rude only pointed to the broadcast location back near the entrance way. A familiar voice began to speak as he approached the booth. The man was recognized as Scott Hall, who was previously known as Razor Ramon, a member of the WWF. “Well, if it isn’t the Nacho Man!! Ooooo .. no. Hey Nacho Man, you want a fight? You want a war? You’re gonna get one. Here’s a challenge, for you, for Billionaire Ted, and for anyone in ‘Dubya C Dubya.’ This is where the big boys play? What a joke. Three guys. If you can find any friends, which I know you don’t have many of anymore, or if Billionaire Ted or this Ken Doll wannabe (pointing to announcer Eric Bischoff), has anyone, we want WCW’s three best. Get anyone you want. It don’t matter. We are taking over. Let’s do this right. In the ring, where it matters. You wanna war? You got one.” Hall throws his mic at Eric Bischoff and he walks off as the show fades out.
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 16, 2022 17:49:40 GMT -5
THE GREAT AMERICAN BASH (June 16, 1996) Eddie Guerrero pinned Johnny B. Badd with the Frog Splash in 15:22. Rating: *** ½The biggest event of the summer opened up with a phenomenal match between Guerrero and Badd, two highly athletic competitors. The match went back and forth with each hitting numerous impressive moves. Late, Badd had Guerrero on the top rope and was going for a hurracanranna, only to have Guerrero fight him off and throw him down to the mat. Guerrero then came off hitting a frog splash for the win. Scott Norton pinned Animal after a powerbomb in 7:34. Rating: * ½There was nothing fancy about this match. It was power on power, to decide who is the biggest and baddest. They traded hard hitting moves for a while before Norton finally put Animal away with a powerbomb. The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) defeated The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) when Bradshaw pinned R. Steiner with the Lariat in 11:11. Rating: *** ¼The Unforgiven weathered an early storm from the Steiners and seized control of the match. However, the Steiners turned the match in their favor when Scott caught Barry Windham out of nowhere with a Frankensteiner. He had taken a pretty big beating until that point and couldn’t go for the pin, but was able to tag in his big brother Rick who came in and began to clean house. Rick ran through both Bradshaw and Windham for a stretch. But out of nowhere, Bradshaw came and hit Rick Steiner with a vicious lariat and before anyone knew it, it was a three count and an Unforgiven victory. Dean Malenko pinned Ultimo Dragon after a Victory Roll in 11:22. Rating: *** 1/2 (Dean Malenko retained the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)Malenko got quite a test for his title, as the match was even more of a toss up than their tournament semifinal match a few weeks prior. This one looked like it might go Dragon’s way, but Malenko was able to roll him up, grab the rope for extra leverage where the ref couldn’t see, and get the victory. Triangle Match: Chris Candido defeated Konnan and Lord Steven Regal when Candido pinned Regal after a sitout power bomb in 13:24. Rating: *** 3/4 (Chris Candido retained the WCW WORLD TELEVISION TITLE.)Candido has been trying to prove himself a worthy champion, scoring a victory over two top contenders including a four-time former champion in Regal will go a long way to do that. During the match, Candido’s mentor, Diamond Dallas Page came to ringside on crutches. At one point, the ref had his back turned, admonishing Regal for hitting a low blow on Konnan. Candido tried to get DDP to pass him a crutch so he could hit Konnan, but Page refused telling Candido he can do this on his own. Candido took his words to heart. For a second, he teamed with Regal to knock Konnan out of the ring, then Candido turned on Regal, hitting him with a powerbomb to get the pin. DDP applauded as he watched Candido raise the belt high. Cage Match: Davey Boy Smith pinned Jeff Jarrett with the Running Powerslam in 18:34. Rating: *** 1/4 (Davey Boy Smith retained the WCW UNITED STATES TITLE.)The only way to possibly keep the other Horsemen out of this match was to put Jarrett and Davey Boy inside a steel cage. Arn Anderson and Marcus Bagwell were at ringside to encourage their partner, but they wouldn’t be able to interfere. So we thought. Jarrett put Davey Boy in the figure four and nearly got a submission, then Jarrett spotted Bagwell trying to climb the cage. Jarrett broke the hold to go over and stop Bagwell, the ref did the same. In doing so, Smith was able to go over to Anderson who slipped some sort of pouch through the cage to Davey Boy. Smith opened it, took out some powder, and tossed it in Jarrett’s eyes when he came back over. With Jarrett temporarily blinded, Davey Boy hit his powerslam and retained his title. Interview with Rick Rude and Scott HallWCW announcer Eric Bischoff brought out Rick Rude and Scott Hall to talk about the challenge Hall gave to WCW last week on Nitro. Bischoff announced that Hall will get his wish, agreeing to the match to be held at the next WCW PPV, Bash at the Beach. Hall and Rude were pleased to hear this, they then asked who WCW’s guys were going to be. Bischoff said that was still to be determined. Randy Savage then came out and confronted Rude and Hall and said he will be there proudly representing WCW. Hall and Rude laughed saying Savage has no friends and asked if he was going to go out there himself. Savage pointed to the ring and said no one has to wait. They can go right now since it was only Hall and Savage there. Hall though said he wasn’t the only one there. Walking out was a 7-foot tall monster referred to as Kevin Nash, previously Diesel in the WWF. When Savage turned around to see him, Nash kicked him in the face. He yelled down at the fallen Savage. Bischoff spoke up admonishing Nash for his cheap shot. But Hall then punched Bischoff in the stomach and Nash powerbombed Bischoff off the stage. Security rushed out as Rude, Hall and Nash left. The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) when Barbarian pinned Booker with the Flying Clothesline in 14:08. Rating: DUD (The Faces of Fear retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)The Faces of Fear have been getting the crowd behind them in recent weeks and it seems they’ve been enjoying the support. When Harlem Heat had the match tilted in their favor, the crowd rallied behind Meng and The Barbarian and it seemingly brought them back. Booker T, though, got back in control of Meng, setting him up for a Harlem Hangover, but Meng rolled out of the way and Booker crashed to the mat. He got up, stumbled around, and caught a flying clothesline from the Barbarian that helped the champs retain their titles. Stone Cold Steve Austin pinned Ric Flair with the Stunner in 18:45. Rating: *** 3/4 [Jeff Jarrett interfered against Ric Flair.]This was the first time Austin had an actual match with his new Stone Cold persona. His feud with Ric Flair goes back a long ways with Flair always getting the best of his former Horseman. However, things were different with Stone Cold. Austin had always been a gifted physical athlete, but also now mixed in physicality and a brawling nature making him perhaps an even more complete wrestler. But Flair is still the dirtiest player in the game and swung the match in his direction. He had Austin in the Figure Four, but Austin wouldn’t give in. In fact, he flipped Flair a double bird and reversed the hold. The rest of the Horsemen tried to run down to save Flair when Austin went on a rampage, but Austin took care of them all. Then once again 1-on-1 in the ring with Flair, Austin hit Flair with his Stunner and put Flair away. Big Van Vader pinned Lex Luger after a powerbomb in 15:44. Rating: *** 1/2 (Big Van Vader won the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)Luger is one of the rare specimen’s that can match power with Vader. It helped carry Luger past him when he was on his path to the championship, but this time around, not so much. Vader injured Luger’s back in the match when he was outside and caught Luger diving at him, powerslamming him to the floor. He continued to work on it with an array of power moves. But Luger rallied back and even tried to get Vader in the Torture Rack. That wasn’t happening. Luger collapsed to the mat and Vader hit a powerbomb that the Total Package with a hurt back couldn’t come back from. Vader was once again, WCW World champion. Card rating: ***
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 20, 2022 12:43:40 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (June 17, 1996) Dean Malenko pinned Psychosis after a Victory Roll in 11:54. Rating: **** 1/4 (Dean Malenko retained the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)Malenko and Psychosis had an absolutely phenomenal match, but sadly it was marred by a controversial ending. In much the same fashion he defeated Ultimo Dragon with at last night’s Great American Bash, rolling up Psychosis but using the ropes for extra leverage without the ref seeing. Ulitmo Dragon ran down to try to tell the ref what happened, but as he and Psychosis pleaded their case, the ref just kept saying he didn’t see it. Malenko escaped to the back with his belt. Barry Windham pinned Meng after a gutwrench suplex in 8:37. Rating: * ½The Unforgiven are the No. 1 contenders to the Faces of Fear’s tag titles. Windham and Meng faced of 1-on-1 tonight. Well, allegedly 1-on-1. Bradshaw snuck in the ring and hit Meng with a vicious lariat that left him easy pickings for Windham. After the match, Bradshaw and Windham continued to attack Meng and even The Barbarian when he came to help. The No. 1 contenders left proud of their devastation of the champions. Interview with Chris Candido and Diamond Dallas PageTV champ Chris Candido came out with his mentor Diamond Dallas Page, Page still using a crutch as he’s recovering from a knee injury. Page applauded Candido for winning the match on his own, as that is going to elevate him to becoming a truly great champion. Candido thanked Page for his help, but then mentioned when he asked Page for help, Page said no. But that’s Ok. DDP was right. Beating one of the greatest TV champs ever, like Regal, will only help his legacy. Candido then pointed out Page was also one of the greatest TV champions. Before Page realized what Candido was getting at, Candido attacked him. Candido knocked Page to the mat, then took DDP’s own crutch and repeatedly pounded Page with it so much it broke. Candido then took the broken crutch to the back like a trophy. Glacier pinned Disco Inferno after the Cryonic Kick in 5:46. Rating: *** 1/4Disco Inferno came to the ring doing his typical dancing and seemed upset when his music was interrupted by Glacier’s grand entrance. But while he was upset at the interruption, he probably felt even worse when Glacier began showcasing his martial arts expertise, nearly kicking his head off. The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) defeatedGreg Valentine and Honky Tonk Man when A. Wright pinned Valentine after a dragon suplex in 9:53. Rating: *** 3/4Two of the more veteran members of the WCW roster, The Hammer and Honky haven’t been seeing much success lately. Honky convinced them to team up to “relieve the glory days.” But that didn’t fare to well either as the team fell to the former champs, Ultimate Males. After the match, however, The Males were ambushed by The Nasty Boys. Sags and Knobbs have said the WCW tag division once belonged to them. They need to get back to being Nasty to take it back. Apparently, the Males are first on their new Nasty hit list. Interview with Lex LugerGene Okerlund interviewed the now former champ about his plans now that he lost the belt to Vader. Luger said there will be a time for him to go back after the world title, but there are bigger issues. He then called Randy Savage to come out here and face him. Savage honored Luger’s request. Luger said he got a call today from Eric Bischoff, who’s OK but recovering after the attack from the Outsiders last night. Bischoff asked Luger to step up to represent WCW and fight this attempted invasion. And Bischoff specifically requested Luger work with Savage. Luger said despite the issues the two have had in the past, he’s seen the passion Savage has shown confronting Rude and the Outsiders defending WCW and said Savage is the type of warrior he wants on his side to go into a battle like this. Savage agreed that he and Luger have never seen eye-to-eye, but admitted there is no greater representative for WCW than Luger, and he’d want him in the foxhole with him any day. Savage said let’s leave the past in the past and let’s do this. The two shook hands. Eddie Guerrero pinned Lord Steven Regal with the Frog Splash in 14:46. Rating: *** ½
Regal claimed before the match, he would’ve won the TV title at the Bash if it wasn’t for Konnan, once again noting his superiority over the Mexican style and he’d prove it tonight. But again, he couldn’t back up his words in the ring. Guerrero got the win, but was attacked after the match by Regal’s associate David Taylor. Konnan came to even it up and he and Guerrero fought off the Brits. Big Van Vader pinned Ricky Steamboat with the Vader Bomb in 12:08. Rating: *** 1/2 (Big Van Vader retained the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)One night after winning the world title, Vader faced a former champ in Steamboat. During the match, Steamboat’s former friend who left him laying in the ring a few weeks ago, Johnny B. Badd., joined the guys in the broadcast booth badmouthing Steamboat throughout. In the match, despite getting in a few flashes of offense, Steamboat was no match for Vader. Vader proudly raised up his title and shouted various things like “I’m the man!” and “I’m unstoppable.” But then the glass shattered, music played and Stone Cold Steve Austin came out. He rushed the ring before any confrontation could be had, Vader slipped out of the ring, telling Austin “Not today, but soon.” Card rating: *** 1/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 24, 2022 16:58:49 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (June 24, 1996) The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) defeated The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) when Meng pinned Riggs with the Tongan Death Grip in 8:51. Rating: 3/4* (The Faces of Fear retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)The Faces of Fear put their titles up against former champs the Ultimate Males and had a successful defense. After the match, the champs headed to the back and the Males remained in the ring, The Nasty Boys came out of the crowd, jumped in the ring and attacked the Males. As the Faces of Fear saw what was happening and seemed about to head back to the ring to help, they were blindsided by the Unforgiven who viciously attacked the champs. Konnan defeated David Taylor via pinfall in 11:59. Rating: ***After their confrontation last week, Konnan and David Taylor met in the ring with Eddie Guerrero standing in Konnan’s corner and Steven Regal in Taylor’s. The presence of both ensure the match in the ring was kept 1-on-1. Konnan took the win and he and Guerrero celebrated heading to the back as Regal and Taylor stood upset in the ring. Interview with the Four HorsemenWith all Four Horsemen in the ring, spaced so they could see any possible attacks from behind, Ric Flair took the mic, livid at Stone Cold Steve Austin’s claim as the No. 1 contender for Vader’s world title. After bad mouthing Austin, Stone Cold’s music hit and he came out from the back. The Horsemen readied for a fight but Austin stayed at the top of the ramp. Austin said Flair couldn’t possibly think he should be No. 1 contender cause Austin whooped his ass at the Bash. Flair thought pointed to Davey Boy Smith, saying the US Champion has always been considered the top contender for the world title, and Smith has dominated everyone for four months. If anyone deserves a shot, it’s him. Austin said he has no problem whooping Davey Boy’s ass as well. And a top contenders match between the two was made for later tonight. Ultimo Dragon defeated Lizmark Jr. with the Dragon Sleeper in 9:01. Rating: *** 3/4In a Cruiserweight battle, Ultimo Dragon got the best of Lizmark Jr., putting him away with his Dragon sleeper hold. After the win, he shouted into the TV camera, “That’s how you win a match, Dean.” The Boss pinned Disco Inferno with the Boss Man Slam in 6:35. Rating: * ¼Much like last week, Disco Inferno was upset when his prematch dancing was interrupted by The Boss’ music and entrance. And also just like last week, Disco couldn’t get any sort of vengeance. The Boss put him away quickly, but still taking time to punish Disco first. Mr. J.L. pinned Johnny B. Badd after a small package in 8:58. Rating: ** 3/4Badd has been a bully of Cruiserweights since the division’s inception, since he was too heavy to be included. His target tonight was JL and Badd was in control and toying with his opponent. But a distraction from Badd’s former friend Ricky Steamboat drew his attention away, and JL caught him in a small package for the win. Steve Austin defeated Davey Boy Smith by disqualification in 13:09. Rating: *** [Arn Anderson and Marcus Bagwell interfered against Steve Austin.]Austin and Davey Boy had their match to determine a top contender for Vader’s world title. Austin still had a desire for vengeance since Davey turned on him back at Uncensored. The match was a good one, going back and forth until Austin looked ready to take full control and put Smith away. But Arn Anderson and Marcus Bagwell ran in and caused a DQ. Austin was able to fight them off for a bit but the numbers took over. But Jeff Jarrett ran down with a chair and helped chase off Anderson and Bagwell. Austin and Smith were both left in the ring, but this left the door open for Vader to come down and deliver powerbombs to each of his two potential challengers. Lex Luger and Randy Savage defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) when Savage pinned S. Ray with the Flying Elbowdrop in 14:22. Rating: *** 1/4The unlikely team of Lex Luger and Randy Savage will represent WCW at Bash at the Beach against the two outsiders, Hall and Nash, who are out to destroy WCW. Luger and Savage got a warm-up match against Harlem Heat. Despite some early struggles, the two actually worked well together winning the match. But after, at the back side of the ring, Hall and Nash came down and jumped the guardrail with baseball bats. Luger and Savage held firm in the ring as security raced down to prevent an ugly incident. A standoff ensued, but after a bit, the familiar music of Hulk Hogan hit and for the first time in months, the Immortal appeared coming down to the ring. Security ended up escorting Hall and Nash out as Hogan joined Luger and Savage in the ring. Hogan told them he knows he has rough history with both, but like they’ve showed, when it comes to fighting for WCW, that’s something that pulls everyone together. He offered to join their team for Bash at the Beach and the two accepted. Card rating: ** 3/4 -------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (July 1, 1996) Scott Steiner defeated Chris Candido by countout in 7:04. Rating: *** (Chris Candido retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Candido has a standing challenge to any former TV champion, and Scott Steiner answered it. But Candido was unfinished business with another former champion. After being attacked two weeks ago, Diamond Dallas Page returned on crutches. Candido temporarily snuck out of the ring to confront and laugh at DDP. He even knocked the crutch away. However, nothing changed. DDP showed he didn’t need it anymore and then chased Candido away from the ring. Candido jumped the guardrail and ran off through the crowd as DDP chased. Meng comes to the broadcast areaAfter a couple weeks of being attacked by the Unforgiven, Meng, announced, stormed the broadcast table, spoke in Tongan in an angry tone, then left. The Boss pinned Psychosis with the Boss Man Slam in 5:01. Rating: ** 1/4The Boss picked up another quick and dominant win. But he was approached after the match by Road Warrior Animal. Animal said Boss sure has been impressive beating up on smaller guys. But maybe it’s time to see how he fares against someone his own size. The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) defeated The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) when Knobbs pinned A. Wright after a powerslam in 7:36. Rating: ** ¼After a couple weeks of sneak attacks, The Nasty Boys faced the Ultimate Males in the ring. Things weren’t as easy with the Nastys facing them straight up as opposed to sneak attacking them, but they were able to overpower the smaller team and claim a win. They commented after that the Males were just the first team crossed off their hit list. The Outsiders arriveAfter Hall and Nash jumped the guardrails with baseball bats last week, there was a heavy security presence all around the building tonight. Despite this, Hall and Nash made their way down to a set of empty front row seats. Security came to question them, but they produced purchased tickets. Security let them stay, but kept a heavy presence around them. Mr. J.L. pinned Dean Malenko after a sunset flip in 9:52. Rating: ** 3/4 (Mr. J.L. won the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)Malenko before the match seemed more concerned with Ultimo Dragon, saying he doesn’t care if Dragon has a problem with how he wins matches. He’s winning and will keep on winning. But that changed tonight. Dragon came to ringside during the match. At one point, JL tried to hit a sunset flip, but Malenko dropped down and grabbed the rope. But Dragon from the outside knocked Malenko’s hands off the rope, JL continued his sunset flip and pinned the champ! Lord Steven Regal made Chavo Guerrero Jr. submit to the Regal Stretch in 7:44. Rating: *** ½Regal wanted to make a statement to Eddie Guerrero and Konnan by beating Chavo. He refused to let go of his hold after the match until Eddie and Konnan ran down. But Regal let go and left before there could be any conflict. Outsiders make their moveHall and Nash were able to get a microphone then paraded through the crowd badmouthing WCW mentioning they were taking over a little early. They jumped the guardrail near the entrance ramp and immediately security converged. This also brought out of the locker room Luger, Savage and Hogan, along with several other WCW wrestlers who were ready to fight. But security was able to hold both sides apart and eventually again escorted Hall and Nash out of the arena. Ric Flair and Davey Boy Smith defeated Jeff Jarrett and Steve Austin when D.B. Smith pinned Jarrett with the Running Powerslam in 11:48. Rating: *** 1/4To say Jarrett and Austin was an uneasy pairing would be an understatement. Jarrett seemed like he wanted to make it work, but Austin rather do it all himself. It worked for a while, but the Horsemen got the better of it. But he came back and hit Flair with a spinebuster. But instead of tagging out, he flipped Jarrett the double bird then went back to work. Jarrett though, eventually tagged himself into the match, but ended up taking the pin. After the match, the world champ Vader came down to ringside and again attacked both Austin and Davey Boy, all while Jarrett and Flair continued to brawl. It was announced after that at Bash at the Beach, it will be a 3-way world title match, Vader vs. Austin vs. Davey Boy Smith. Randy Savage, Lex Luger and Hulk Hogan defeated The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) and Scott Norton when Luger made Norton submit to the Torture Rack in 14:34. Rating: ***Much like last week, Luger, Savage and Hogan got a warm-up match to help gel the team together. Rick Rude came out of the crowd up near the rampway and began to walk down to the ring with a bat, but Hogan caught a glimpse of this, quickly grabbed a chair and cut off Rude’s progress. Rude was caught off guard and began treating, only to have Hogan give chase all the way to the back. Luger and Savage were left alone in the ring, but they still managed to get the win. After the match, however, an official came running down saying they needed help in the back. The two raced back there and found Hogan bloodied and laid out, barely conscious. Savage and Luger asked what happened, asking if the Outsiders came back, thinking they were in jail. Hogan, as he was being worked on my EMTs only managed to get a few words out. “No … Sting. It was Sting.” Card rating: ***
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Jan 31, 2022 18:08:37 GMT -5
BASH AT THE BEACH (July 7, 1996) Eddie Guerrero, Konnan and Chavo Guerrero Jr. defeated Fit Finlay, David Taylor and Lord Steven Regal when Konnan defeated Finlay when Finlay passed out in the Tequila Sunrise in 16:33. Rating: *** ¼The two sides, especially Konnan and Regal, have been going at it for months trying to prove who’s wrestling was better, Mexico or Europe. That issue may have been settled after a win for Konnan’s group tonight. While Konnan got the decisive submission, Eddie Guerrero put on a show, as no one on the European side seemed to be able to handle his skill and athleticism. There was some dissension with Regal’s group after the match as Regal and Taylor weren’t happy that Finlay gave the match up. Backstage interview with Randy Savage and Lex LugerGene Okerlund was interviewing Team WCW for tonight’s Hostile Takeover match. They said Hogan was undergoing medical evaluation to get cleared to wrestle tonight after being attacked on Nitro. Savage and Luger said they were waiting to hear word on whether or not Hogan will join them in the match, but they addressed Hogan’s claims it was Sting that attacked him. Luger was especially upset, calling out the man whom he called his best friend for turning his back on WCW. Luger said we needed Sting to live up to being the Franchise of WCW, instead he’s been invisible and is now being pointed to as working against the company he helped build from the ground up. He said whether it’s true or not, Sting’s got some explaining to do. Johnny B. Badd pinned Ricky Steamboat with the Tutti Frutti in 15:27. Rating: *** 3/4Former partners collided. Steamboat has been unhappy with Badd’s recent change in attitude, while Badd doesn’t seem to care. Steamboat was on the offensive early, catching Badd off guard and having him retreating. But Badd has developed a fondness for cheap shots lately, and that turned the match around. Steamboat was able to regroup and went for a splash from the top rope. But Badd moved out of the way and Steamboat crashed to the mat. When he got up, Badd was able to put him away. The Boss pinned Animal with the Boss Slam in 11:11. Rating: ** 3/4The Boss has been having his way lately with smaller wrestlers. Animal offered him a chance to prove what he can do with a man his own size. The match was hard hitting and each exchanging power moves, but Boss was able to hit the final one, getting the win. Four Corners Match: Mr. J.L. defeated Dean Malenko, Rey Misterio Jr. and Ultimo Dragon when J.L. pinned D. Malenko with the Moonsault in 19:01. Rating: **** (Mr. J.L. retained the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)JL drew quite a difficult task in his first title defense, facing former champ Malenko, top contender Ultimo Dragon and newcomer Rey Misterio Jr. who’ve been seeing vignettes announcing his arrival. Malenko and Dragon have had issues with each other and seemed to devote most of their attention to their rival. However, that thinking allowed the others to hit big moves on them when they weren’t expecting it. The match as a whole was fantastic. Fast paced and featuring a lot of innovative offensive moves. Dragon had Malenko in his Dragon Sleeper trying to close the match, but Mysterio came over and hit Dragon with a hurracanrana that sent him rolling to the floor. But JL quickly hit Mysterio with a dropkick that sent him outside as well. JL then jumped to the top rope and came off with a moonsault that caught Malenko and got the win. Chris Candido pinned Diamond Dallas Page with the Blonde Bombshell in 11:03. Rating: ** (Chris Candido retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)DDP, in his first match back after suffering a knee injury, was eager to gain revenge on his former protege that attacked him a few weeks ago. DDP was a bit rusty at first, but quickly got back in the flow of things during the match. Candido was running scared early before turning the match around by targeting DDP’s knee. That kept him in control for a while, but Page again turned the match around, only to have Candido hit him low and toss him out of the ring. While Candido was getting admonished by the ref, Page was recovering outside when a woman in the front row pulled some hairspray out of her purse and sprayed it in Page’s eyes. A blinded DDP stumbled back in the ring and Candido took advantage, putting him away to retain his title. After, he walked over to the woman who sprayed Page who was about to get escorted out by security. He pulled her over the guardrail, gave her a kiss and walked to the back with her. Ric Flair made Jeff Jarrett submit to the Figure Four Leg Lock in 11:23. Rating: *** 1/2 Jeff Jarrett tore his right calf muscle. He will be out for approximately 6 months.After months of going after the Horsemen, Jarrett got the chance to go right after the leader. He took at months of frustration out on Flair, but the dirtiest player in the game has plenty of tricks up his sleeve. Flair went with cheap shots every chance he could, but somehow Jarrett shook them off and continued to go at Flair. However, Jarrett took a rough fall, trying to dive off the apron attempting a flying clothesline on Flair who was walking on the floor. After that, Flair took over, and ended up putting him away with the Figure Four. The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) defeated The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) when Bradshaw pinned Barbarian with the Lariat in 13:59. Rating: ** 3/4 (The Unforgiven won the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)The match began as a brutal fight as the champions got the jump on the challengers. The Faces of Fear attacked the Unforgiven during their ring entrance and the brawl commenced. Once the match settled down in the ring, the Unforgiven gained control, working mostly on The Barbarian. But when the hot tag was made to Meng, Meng cleaned house. From that point on, the match became more of a fight at which the champs excelled. However, all it took was one moment where Bradshaw hit Barbarian with a lariat to crown new champions. Triangle Match: Big Van Vader defeated Davey Boy Smith and Stone Cold Steve Austin when Vader pinned D.B. Smith with the Vader Bomb in 19:04. Rating: *** 1/2 (Big Van Vader retained the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)When the bell rang to officially start the match, Smith ducked out, seemingly feeding Austin to Vader. He didn’t quite expect Austin to get the better of the monstrous world champ. Austin then waived Davey Boy into the match and was getting the best of him as well until Vader came back around and joined Davey in a 2-on-1 against Austin. The match went back and forth with each taking turns in control. There were points where various alliances formed, even at one point Austin and Davey Boy teaming up to go after Vader. Late, Austin hit Vader with a stunner, but walked right into an clothesline from Davey that knocked him outside. Austin dragged Davey Boy to the floor and the two fought, but Davey threw Austin into the ring post taking him momentarily out. Davey went back into the ring, but Vader was recovered and waiting. He caught Davey, hit a Vader Bomb and put him away. As Vader raised his title victoriously, Austin sat outside seething looking on. Hulk Hogan, Lex Luger and Randy Savage and Kevin Nash, Scott Hall and ?? battled to a no contest. Rating: *** Luger and Savage came to the ring together without Hogan who announcers said was still trying to get doctors to clear him to compete in the match. In turn, Hall and Nash came down without their third man, although Rick Rude was with them as their manager. They said they didn’t want any excuses, so their third guy will stay in the back unless he needs to be out here. The match’s intensity was kicked up a bit with the mystery surrounding it and the stated intentions of the Outsiders. Savage and Luger started off hot early, but the Outsiders eventually swung the match, mostly targeting Luger. Luger powered through and eventually made the hot tag to Savage. Savage came in a house of fire, running through the Outsiders before Scott Hall caught him with a low blow, leaving for the moment all four men down. At that time, Hulk Hogan hobbled his way out from the back to a big ovation from the crowd. Hogan jumped into WCW’s corner, got the crowed riled up as he implored Savage to come over to tag him in. But he wasn’t the only one coming out from the back. For the first time in months, Sting had arrived!! Sting got to the ring, pulled Hogan down from the apron and started unloading on the Hulkster to the shock of everybody. This drew Luger who jumped in between Sting and Hogan, asking him what he was doing. Sting tried to tell him that Hogan wasn’t who he thinks he is. He made up his attack last week and claimed to be no where near the building. Officials raced down to get in between what was a heated situation between Sting and Luger as they walked about halfway back up the aisle. Meanwhile, Hogan shook off Sting’s punches and got back to the apron as Savage crawled over and tagged him in. But instead of going after the Outsiders, Hogan picked up Savage, whipped him into the ropes and hit a big boot to the face, and followed it with a big leg drop!! Realizing what was happening in the ring, Luger raced back only to have Hall and Nash converge on him as Hogan continued to drop leg drops on Savage. By this time, Sting was at the top of the ramp, looking on with disgust before walking alone to the back. In the ring, Hogan stood with Hall, Nash and Rude as the crowd began throwing garbage in the ring. Gene Okerlund tried to come in to get a word with Hogan. Hogan said this group is the future of wrestling, you can call it, the New World Order of professional wrestling. They are going to take over the whole wrestling world. He said he took Billionaire Ted’s money but accused WCW on turning their back on him. The fans are here because of him, and if that’s how he’s going to be treated, the fans can “Stick it!” Card rating: ***
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Feb 8, 2022 17:45:18 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (July 8, 1996) Mr. JL pinned Super Calo with the Moonsault in 8:21. Rating: ** 3/4 (Mr. JL retained the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)Nitro has taken up residence for the month outside at Disney Universal Studios in Orlando. Opening the show was JL defending his Cruiserweight title. One night after retaining it in a four corners match, JL had enough left to score the victory over Super Calo. Interview with Randy Savage and Lex LugerSavage and Luger were interviewed about the chain of events at the end of Bash at the Beach. Luger started out making an apology to Sting and admitted to being duped by a con-man referencing Hulk Hogan. Then each address Hogan saying he threw away everything he’s built over the past decade and told Hogan he’s the one that could “Stick It!” Lord Steven Regal and David Taylor defeated The Destruction Crew (Mike Enos and Wayne Bloom) when D. Taylor pinned Enos with the Double Underhook Suplex in 7:13. Rating: *** 1/4Regal and Taylor showed great teamwork to post a victory. After the match, Fit Finlay, who had been teaming with Regal and Taylor, came to the ring to help them celebrate the win. However, Regal and Taylor where still upset with Finlay for last night’s loss, and then attacked their, I guess you can say, former partner. The nWo arrivesA limo pulled up into the parking area on the side area behind the set up bleachers. Scott Hall, Kevin Nash and Rick Rude get out and take a seat right there. Stone Cold Steve Austin pinned Arn Anderson with the Stunmer in 14:07. Rating: *** 1/4Austin was impressive in victory over Arn Anderson of the Horsemen. After the match he had a message for US Champion Davey Boy Smith who was in Anderson’s corner. Austin said he’d be world champion right now if it wasn’t for Smith, and said to make things right, he thinks he should take that US title off of him. Davey Boy kept saying he wasn’t scared of Austin, but stopped short of agreeing to a title match. Interview with Chris CandidoTelevision champion Chris Candido came out to talk to Gene Okerlund with the lady whom was key to his victory over Diamond Dallas Page last night. Candido introduced the woman as Tammy Lynn, saying she is much better company than DDP ever was, and “Chicks dig winners.” Dean Malenko defeated Chavo Guerrero Jr. when Chavo passed out in the Texas Cloverleaf in 8:04. Rating: *** ¾Malenko made Chavo submitted to the Texas Cloverleaf. After, Malenko had a message for Ultimo Dragon. He said if Dragon has a problem with how he wins matches, he’ll prove he can win in many ways. He challenged Dragon to a submission match. Interview with The OutsidersHall, Nash and Rude are sitting around their limo catching the action from a distance when Gene Okerlund walks over to them. He asks them about Hulk Hogan and they he’s fine, on set on a movie right now but he’ll be here next week. They all reveled in their victory at Bash at the Beach and called WCW a sinking ship they’re happy to be the cause of. Number-One-Contenders-Match: The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) when R. Steiner pinned Stevie Ray in 10:57. Rating: **It was announced the winners of this match would receive a title shot against new champions, The Unforgiven, at the next WCW PPV, Hog Wild. The champs came out to get a closer look as Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw stood in the entryway to get some up close scouting. The two teams in the match had a phenomenal series of matches for the titles last year, and while this one might not have been at the level of their previous meetings, there was still a lot of intensity with the high stakes. The Steiners ended up getting the win, hitting their top-rope bulldog on Stevie Ray. After the win they stared down the new champs who didn’t look too impressed. Randy Savage pinned Johnny B. Badd with the Flying Elbowdrop in 11:52. Rating: *** 1/2Lex Luger stood in Savage’s corner as he fought Badd. Badd stayed right with Savage for a good portion of the match having a bit mor quickness and athleticism than Savage. But as the match wore on, Savage looked about ready to put it away when Hall and Nash get off their limo and start to make their way to the ring. Rick Rude is right alongside of them. The match stops as Savage sees them coming, Luger gets in the way. Badd tried to take advantage of the distraction and went for the Tutti Frutti, but Savage countered knocking Badd down. He climbed up to the far turnbuckle, pointed at the Outsiders then came off with a flying elbow to win the match. He quickly turned his attention back to the confrontation with The Outsiders. Security rushed into the middle of the teams and the face off continued as the show came to a close. Card rating: *** ------------------------------ MONDAY NITRO (July 15, 1996) Nitro is once again outside at Disney’s Universal Studios, but it’s noted early in the show that several of WCW’s top stars including Randy Savage, world champion Vader, Stone Cold Steve Austin and Ric Flair of the Horsemen are overseas in Japan. It’s said that Lex Luger is one of the few of WCW’s top stars here on a night where the nWo has said Hulk Hogan would be here to talk about his teaming with the outsiders. Rey Misterio Jr. pinned Disco Inferno with the Super Huracanrana in 11:15. Rating: ****Rey Misterio Jr. made his WCW debut at the four corners Cruiserweight title match at Bash at the Beach. This was his Nitro debut as he interrupted Disco’s dancing. Rey showcased a quickness that may be unmatched in WCW. Every time Disco seemed to have Rey set up to hit a move, Rey slipped out and caught him with a counter. In fact, that’s how the match ended, Rey ducked an attempted strike from Disco and hit him with a version of a Frankensteiner, then held on for the pin. The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) defeated The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) when Windham pinned Barbarian with after the Superplex in 16:06. Rating: ** 1/2 (The Unforgiven retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)The Unforgiven’s first title defense was a return match against the former champions. The match went mostly the same as their previous match. The Faces of Fear had the edge when they were able to make the match a fight, while the Unforgiven controlled once things settled into a wrestling match. But FOF seemed like they might be able to get revenge. Barbarian was on the top rope set to finish off Windham, but Bradshaw came from behind and pulled his foot down. Barbarian was now compromised on top when Windham came up and hit him with a superplex. The Boss pinned Greg Valentine with the Boss Man Slam in 7:06. Rating: ** 3/4Boss has been dominating since he repackaged himself with a new Mafia persona. His path of destruction continued with an impressive outing over tough veteran Greg Valentine. Lord Steven Regal defeated Ice Train by disqualification in 13:08. Rating: * 1/4Regal might have made a mistake disassociating himself with Fit Finlay. Finlay jumped Regal in the middle of what was a relatively even match against Ice Train causing a disqualification. David Taylor ran down to help Regal, but Finlay was able to escape with the damage already done. Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) defeated The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) by disqualification in 12:22. Rating: ** 3/4The Nasty Boys have been on a quest they’ve been calling their “hit list” to climb back up the tag team rankings. Harlem Heat seems to be next on that list. Midway through the match, The Nasty Boys produced steel chains, brought them into the ring and attacked Harlem Heat with them. They Nastys got DQed for it, but they didn’t seem to care. Lex Luger defeated Marcus Alexander Bagwell when Marcus Bagwell submitted to the Torture Rack in 14:14. Rating: ***Two of the top stars present faced off in the main event. Although the rest of the Horsemen weren’t there, Bagwell still had Horsemen tricks to use such as low blows and cheap shots that had him in control of Luger for a good portion of the match. However, Luger turned the match back around and ended up getting Bagwell in the torture rack that forced a submission. But Luger’s celebration was shortlived as toward the end of the match, Hogan, Hall, Nash and Rude began to make their way into the ring and the Outsiders blindsided Luger, brutally attacking the Total Package. They brought Bagwell to his feet, then attacked him too as Hogan stood by and laughed. Interview with the nWoAs the crowd tossed garbage into the ring, Hogan, dressed all in black, spoke about his actions at Bash at the Beach. Hogan said his only regret is he didn’t do this two years earlier. Hogan claimed he’s the one that made professional wrestling and he’s bigger than the sport. He said he is responsible for everyone being in the crowd and getting people like Lex Luger in the business in the first place. He said the nWo is going to take over the wrestling world, but left the question out there that as he builds his empire, will be bring in more outsiders, or will those supposedly loyal to WCW right now, see where the future is heading and join his side. Hogan then went on to challenge Big Van Vader saying he wants to make the WCW title belt, the nWo title belt and bring down WCW piece by piece. Card rating: ** 1/2 ------------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (July 22, 1996) Match for the vacant WCW TELEVISION TITLE: Konnan pinned Chris Candido in 12:23. Rating: **** 1/4 (Konnan won the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)Konnan challenged Chris Candido for the TV title and the two produced a great match. Candido had Tammy Lynn by his side who took several opportunities to help Candido out over the course of the match. Konnan, however, kept fighting back. Late, Tammy distracted the ref as it looked like she slipped an object to Candido to use on Konnan. But from the back, Diamond Dallas Page ran out, thanks to Tammy’s distraction, the ref couldn’t see DDP hitting Candido with a Diamond Cutter on the floor. Page rolled the champ back in the ring and Konnan covered Candido to become new TV champion. Interview with Randy Savage and Lex LugerDuring an interview, instead of directing another tirade toward the nWo, Savage and Luger instead called out the rest of WCW. They said this isn’t just about Savage or Luger, the nWo is attacking WCW and WCW as a whole needs to come together. The Horsemen, Vader, everyone needs to rally together. La Parka, Villano IV and Villano V defeated Prince Iaukea, Lizmark Jr. and Juventud Guerrera when La Parka pinned Iaukea after a flying dropkick in 11:44. Rating: *** ½In a Cruiserweight 6-man match, Prince Iaukea was set to put Villano IV away with a flying splash, but La Parka slipped a chair to Villano. The ref was tending to bodies flying everywhere on the outside. Villano put the chair on his chest and Iaukea splashed down on it. La Parka came back with a flying dropkick on Iaukea and got the win for his team. After the match, La Parka used the chair for a couple more shots on Iaukea and then did a little dance with the chair. A limo arrivesIn the same area the nWo showed up in week’s past, a limo pulled up to the location. However, no one got out this time as it just sat there. Diamond Dallas Page pinned Greg Valentine with the Diamond Cutter in 5:56. Rating: ** 3/4Still riding a high after costing Candido the TV title, Page took a victory lap as he called it with a quick win over Greg The Hammer Valentine. Candido tried to run down after the match, but Page snuck out first, laughing at the frustrated Candido in the ring. Interview with Stone Cold Steve AustinGene Okerlund interviewed Austin, first asking him about the arrival of the nWo and their threats. Austin said Steve Austin only worries about Steve Austin. He adapted a philosophy a long time ago, “Don’t Trust Anyone.” If the time comes when this becomes his problem, he’ll deal with it. But for right now, all he cares about is giving Davey Boy Smith an ass whooping and taking his US Title. Big Van Vader pinned Animal with the Vader Bomb in 7:24. Rating: *** 1/4 (Big Van Vader retained the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)Vader was dominant in a match against Animal, perhaps sending a message to Hulk Hogan with the beating he put on him. He spoke after the match saying if Hogan wants a piece, he wanted to remind everyone that he’s already beaten Hulk Hogan. He’s left Hulk Hogan laying unconscious. And there is no way, Hogan is taking his belt off of him. David Taylor pinned Fit Finlay with the Double Underhook Suplex in 3:55. Rating: ** 1/2Fit Finlay is done trying to appease his former partners Taylor and Steven Regal and has turned to going after vengeance. Unfortunately tonight, it was 2 against 1. Regal gave his partner an extra hand to beat Finlay, and then jump in after the match for a 2 on 1 beat down. Lex Luger and Randy Savage defeated Arn Anderson and Marcus Bagwell when Savage pinned Bagwell with the Flying Elbowdrop in 14:17. Rating: *** ½The match was supposed to be Ric Flair and Arn Anderson against Luger and Savage, but Flair was nowhere to be found, so Bagwell stepped up to represent the Horsemen in his place. A cloud of the nWo hung over which was a pretty solid match. No one knew what the limo outside was waiting for and the announcers speculated on if there are any more nWo members waiting to reveal themselves. Savage and Luger got the win, then as the match ended, a door on the limo opened up and out rolled a beaten up and bloodied Ric Flair. The limo then drove away. Card rating: ***
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Feb 26, 2022 12:38:02 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (July 29, 1996) Stone Cold Steve Austin pinned Scott Norton with the Stone Cold Stunner in 7:11. Rating: * ¼Back again outside at Disney’s Universal Studios, tonight’s Nitro opened with Scott Norton challenging Stone Cold Steve Austin. Norton took exception to Austin getting a United States title shot over him. Norton tried to use his size and power over Austin, but Austin was a little quicker and brought a newfound intensity that came with his recent persona change. That combination was one Norton couldn’t top. Ultimo Dragon made Psychosis submit to the Dragon Sleeper in 11:22. Rating: * ¾Ultimo Dragon has accepted Dean Malenko’s challenge for a submission match at the upcoming Hog Wild PPV. He showed how dangerous he could be in a match like that when he made Psychosis tap out to his Dragon Sleeper. Interview with the HorsemenRic Flair addressed when he was attacked last week. He said it’s not the first time he’s been jumped and it probably won’t be the last. But he foolishly thought the Horsemen and Hogan’s nWo could coexist. But now that they went right after the Nature Boy, there will be hell to pay. He has unfinished business tonight, but soon he will make Hogan and his nWo pay. Randy Savage and Lex Luger and Davey Boy Smith and Ric Flair battled to a double countout in 9:22. Rating: ** 3/4In the middle of this match, all heck broke loose. It started out as a typical match of four guys who didn’t like each other, but soon, an official came out of the back to interrupt the match. He said the nWo was in the back on a rampage. All four men in the ring rushed to the back. Cameras got there to see Arn Anderson on the ground in agony, clutching his arm. Alex Wright was laid out with Kevin Nash standing over him with a baseball bat. Scotty Riggs arrived to look after his partner, but Scott Hall picked up a light fixture and smashed Riggs over the head with it. Rey Mysterio came out of a trailer and tried to dive at the Outsiders, but Nash caught him and javelined him into the side of the trailer. At this time, Savage, Luger and the rest of the Horsemen arrived on the scene, and the Outsiders fled into a limo and sped away. Around the corner, more men were down. The Barbarian was knocked nearly unconscious, whie Diamond Dallas Page was down holding his recently repaired knee. Luger came to DDP asking if it was Hall and Nash. Page, out of all the injured, was most able to get words out about what happened. He said he saw Nash and Hall with bats. He was going to help but got attacked from behind by someone else. Luger asked if it was Hogan, DDP said no. He saw Hogan in the limo. There were more. More wrestlers came to the aid of the injured before ambulances came and took the injured away. The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) defeated Greg Valentine and Honky Tonk Man when R. Steiner pinned Valentine after a German suplex in 7:36. Rating: ** 3/4After the chaos was taken care of, the night’s card resumed with some replacements set for some of the injured wrestlers. The Steiner Brothers were supposed to wrestle the Ultimate Males, but in their place, Greg Valentine and Honky Tonk Man filled in. But no matter their opponents, the Steiners made quick work, getting tuned up for their shot at the world tag team titles. Glacier pinned Mike Enos after a Cryonic Kick in 7:09. Rating: *** 1/2Glacier continues to impress. He got a touch challenge in Mike Enos, a rugged brawler, but was able to showcase his martial arts expertise to pick up the win. Big Van Vader pinned Meng with the Vader Bomb in 8:01. Rating: * (Big Van Vader retained the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)Vader proved that no matter what the nWo claims, he is still the biggest and baddest in the sport and controls the sport’s top prize, the WCW World Title. Meng gave him quite a challenge, but Vader triumphed. After the match, he spoke into the camera to Hulk Hogan, whom he knows was somewhere watching. Vader said Hogan can not beat him, he’s proven that in the past. Hogan’s crusade will end at Hog Wild. Card rating: ** 1/4 ----------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (August 5, 1996) After last week’s assault from the nWo on several members of the WCW roster, WCW is sending out various wrestlers to surround the ring to ensure there is no repeat. Konnan pinned Scott Norton after a flying elbowdrop in 8:05. Rating: *** 3/4 (Konnan retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)A week after complaining about his lack of title shots, yet being unable to beat top US Title Contender Steve Austin, Scott Norton took aim at new TV Champions Konnan. But once again, Norton failed in his mission. Konnan got the win, but yet another new challenger emerged. The Boss came out and says he’s in line for a shot next and he doesn’t care if Konnan agrees to it or not. He’s taking it. Marcus Bagwell and Ric Flair defeated The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) when Flair defeated Knobbs when Knobbs passed out in the Figure-Four Leglock in 10:50. Rating: *** 1/2Ric Flair is angry. First the nWo targeted him two weeks ago, then last week they sent his best friend Arn Anderson to the hospital. It’s gotten personal for Flair. He and Marcus Bagwell went against the Nasty Boys, two known close friends of Hulk Hogan. The Horsemen won the match, but didn’t stop there. They continued to assault the Nasty Boys. Davey Boy Smith came down to join in, and even Arn Anderson, arm in a cast, stomped away as well. Flair yelled at Hogan, saying this has gotten personal and any friend of Hulk Hogan’s is on his list. He will cripple anybody and everyone that is on Hogan’s side. Diamond Dallas Page pinned Mike Enos with the Diamond Cutter in 3:46. Rating: ***DDP was one of the WCW wrestlers attacked backstage last week, but he wanted to show that they can’t keep him down. He has unfinished business with Chris Candido at Hog Wild, but right after that, he’s coming for the nWo. Ricky Steamboat pinned Glacier after a belly-to-back superplex in 10:42. Rating: *** 1/4The former world champion Steamboat challenged Glacier to this match and became the one to stop his unbeaten streak. But after the match, Steamboat kept Glacier in the ring and said he wanted this match to see what Glacier was made of. Outside he can see the skills, but wanted to see what Glacier had inside. Steamboat went on to say he sees the potential, and he offered his services to help Glacier realize that potential. Glacier thought for a moment, then shook Steamboat’s hand. The Boss pinned Eddie Guerrero after a powerbomb in 10:37. Rating: *** 1/2After already coming out once tonight to challenge Konnan, The Boss furter made a statement by scoring an impressive win in a back and forth contest against Konnan’s friend Eddie Guerrero. Randy Savage and Lex Luger defeated David Taylor and Lord Steven Regal when Luger made D. Taylor submit to the Torture Rack in 10:48. Rating: ** 1/4Savage and Luger, who will face the Outsiders at Hog Wild, made a statement with their win tonight. During the main event, however, a limo pulled up to the back. A number of the WCW wrestlers serving as de facto security took alert. Savage and Luger closed out the match then turned their attention to the limo. They made the approach, opening the back door, but all that was in there was a bouquet of flowers with a note saying “Our condolences on the death of WCW.” Card rating: ***
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Mar 13, 2022 13:57:43 GMT -5
HOG WILD (Aug. 10, 1996) Mr. J.L. pinned La Parka with the Moonsault in 12:06. Rating: *** 1/2 (Mr. J.L. retained the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)WCW invaded the Sturgis Motorcyce Rally for its latest PPV. The outdoor show in front of hundreds of thousands of motorcyclists opened with JL defending his cruiserweight title. JL had control causing La Parka go for a chair in what has become his style. La Parka brought the chair into the ring and swung it at JL who ducked, then dropkicked the chair right back into him. La Parka was down and JL finished him off with a moonsault. Lord Steven Regal pinned Fit Finlay in 14:11. Rating: ***Two former partners had a hard-hitting affair. It was very physical and very even. That is until David Taylor got involved and tilted the match in Regal’s favor for good. I-Quit Match: Dean Malenko defeated Ultimo Dragon when Ultimo Dragon passed out in the Texas Cloverleaf in 14:31. Rating: ** ¼Malenko laid out this challenge to prove he could beat Dragon any way he wanted. He took advantage of one big Dragon mistake. Malenko snuck outside the ring for a break, Dragon didn’t want to let him have it. He tried to moonsault from the apron to hit Malenko, but Malenko moved. However, Dragon saw him move and landed on his feet, but Malenko came from behind and clipped out Dragon’s knee. This led to Malenko targeting the knee for the remainder of the match. He eventually locked in the Cloverleaf and Dragon never quit, but he did pass out and that forced the referee to call off the match. Konnan pinned The Boss after a jumping neck snap in 8:46. Rating: * (Konnan retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)
The Boss had the size and came out with aggression, but Konnan was patient and was able to counter Boss’ attacks. This was especially true at the end, with the Boss tried to go for his Boss slam, but Konnan slipped behind and brought Boss down by his neck and got the pin. Diamond Dallas Page pinned Chris Candido with the Diamond Cutter in 10:58. Rating: *** 1/2Chris Candio had gained an upper hand in his feud with his former mentor by enlisting the service of his new valet, Tammy Lynn. However, Page countered this by coming to the ring with his own Diamond Doll. Despite neutralizing the outside interference, Candido still gained the advantage in the match, but he got a little too confident. He had DDP down and took time to pose to the crowd, but didn’t see DDP getting up behind him. Candido turned around right into a Diamond Cutter. The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) defeated The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) when B. Windham defeated S. Steiner via pinfall in 18:34. Rating: *** (The Unforgiven retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)The Steiners were looking to become an unprecedented five-time world champions. However, The Unforgiven have been an unstoppable force since teaming up in WCW and weren’t gonna let their titles go easily. It looked good for the Steiners when Scott got Barry Windham up on his shoulders and Rick Steiner came off with his top rope bulldog. But before he could go for a pin, Bradshaw ran over and knocked him out with a vicious lariat. The referee tried to get Bradshaw out of the ring, who resisted. Scott Steiner came over and got in Bradshaw’s face, but all this did was give Barry Windham a chance to recover. Windham snuck behind Scott and low blowed him, then rolled him up. The ref never saw Bradshaw holding Windhams feet on the ropes for extra leverage. Stone Cold Steve Austin pinned Davey Boy Smith with the Stone Cold Stunner in 15:14. Rating: *** 1/2 (Stone Cold Steve Austin won the WCW UNITED STATES TITLE.)Austin started the match a rampaging beast, mowing through the bigger Davey Boy with pure brawling. But a Horseman always has tricks up his sleeve and Davey Boy turned the match by drawing him outside getting an over-aggressive Austin to charge at him, to which Davey moved and Austin smashed into the stairs. Austin though fought back and regained control, only to get caught By Davey Boy who set him up for his Powerslam, but as Davey ran, Austin slid down his back. He shoved Davey into the corner, when he bounced off he kicked him in the stomach, then hit his Stone Cold Stunner. Kevin Nash and Scott Hall defeated Randy Savage and Lex Luger when Nash pinned Savage with the Jackknife Power Bomb in 14:08. Rating: **The first of two big WCW vs. nWo battles tonight. It was the same combination we saw face off last month, but without any of the mind games surrounding third men, this was a straight fight that the WCW duo seemed to get the best of. Outside the ring, Luger had Scott Hall in the torture rack, but the ref was out there with them, trying to tell Luger he couldn’t get a submission outside the ring. Meanwhile, Savage had Kevin Nash set up for flying elbow. However, Rick Rude smacked Savage with a chair that caused him to drop down, where Kevin Nash was waiting to hit him with a powerbomb. Luger couldn’t get in the ring quick enough to make the save. Hollywood Hogan pinned Big Van Vader after the Big Leg Drop in 12:48. Rating: *** (Hulk Hogan won the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)Vader and Hogan have had quite a history in WCW with this latest encounter putting a whole new spin on the rivalry. A common theme through just about every encounter has been Hogan being unable to match Vader’s strength. That was evident again tonight. Vader also seemingly was expecting nWo interference. He spotted Hall and Nash coming running down to the ring when he was looking to put Hogan away. He chokeslammed Nash, he powerbombed Scott Hall. But all the while he didn’t see Hogan sneak back in the ring with the world title belt. While the referee was trying to clear the carnage, Hogan smacked Vader with the belt. He then dropped the leg on the unconscious champion and pinned him. The celebration carried on with Rude, Hall, Nash and Hogan all in the ring as garbage was getting thrown in around them. Hogan took a can of black spray paint and painted the letters “N W O” on the face of the title belt. Card rating: ** 3/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Mar 19, 2022 15:49:23 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (Aug. 12, 1996) Interview with Lex Luger and Randy SavageNitro opened up with Lex Luger and Randy Savage storming the ring. They said they weren't making excuses for the way their Hog Wild loss to the Outsiders, but they wanted another fight tonight. They then called out the WCW locker room, saying the only way WCW is going to survive this attack is to unite together and watch each other's backs. This brought out former world champion Vader who asked Savage and Luger if their actions were going to back up their words. Because when Vader was fighting Hogan for the title, Nash, Hall and Rude were all there for Hogan, but there was no one from WCW there for him. Savage and Luger both admitted they should've been there, but tonight is the night WCW comes together and they promised to stand alongside whoever is fighting the nWo. The segement ended with all three shaking hands. Eddie Guerrero pinned Marcus Bagwell with the Frog Splash in 13:31. Rating: ** 1/2Eddie Guerrero got a big win over Bagwell, putting him away with his frog splash. After, he called out his good friend Konnan saying he's ready for gold, asking for a shot at the TV title. Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) defeated Billy Kidman and Scotty Riggs when S. Ray defeated Kidman by countout in 10:36. Rating: ** 1/2 (Alex Wright no-showed.)With the top contender spot for the world tag titles open, Harlem Heat wanted to make a statement they wanted that spot. However, they didn't get to beat the former champ Ultimate Males like they hoped. As Alex Wright was nowhere to be found, so Scotty Riggs picked up Rookie Billy Kidman to fill in. Kidman showed that he has some ability, but was in a bit over his head against a team like Harlem Heat. Interview with the nWoThe nWo are shown in their dressing room, Hogan with the spraypainted title belt over his shoulder. They question how many times they gotta beat down WCW. Hogan mentions he was already being forced to defend his title against Ric Flair next week, but said he wouldn’t mind getting a sparring session in tonight. Nash and Hall agreed that they had a lot of fun beating up Luger and Savage in Sturgis and wouldn’t mind doing it again. Chris Candido pinned Ice Train with the Blonde Bombshell in 7:59. Rating: * 3/4Candido looked unconcerned about his loss to Diamond Dallas Page, looked as cocky as ever with Tammy Lynn by his side as he scored a win over the bigger Ice Train. Glacier pinned M. Wallstreet after a Cryonic Kick in 9:25. Rating: **This was Glacier’s first match since agreeing to take on Ricky Steamboat as a mentor. Steamboat watched from ringside, giving instructions when needed as saw his man pick up a win. Stone Cold Steve Austin pinned Ric Flair with the Stun Gun in 12:38. Rating: ** 1/4 (Stone Cold Steve Austin retained the WCW UNITED STATES TITLE.)
Austin and Flair put on a great match, but late, while Austin had momentum, Flair kicked him low then slid out of the ring. But while Austin was down and the ref was checking on him, Hogan came out with a steel chair and smacked Flair with it before rolling him back into the ring. Austin recovered, never seeing what happened was a bit confused, but hit a Stunner on Flair and got the pin. Lex Luger, Big Van Vader and Randy Savage and The Outsiders (Kevin Nash and Scott Hall) and Hollywood Hogan battled to a double countout in 8:37. Rating: -3/4*Luger, Savage and Vader united under the WCW banner to fight the nWo. For a few minutes, Team WCW was getting the upperhand until the nWo turned to low blows and chair shots. But before they could do extra damage, WCW roster members Diamond Dallas Page, The Faces of Fear and members of the Horsemen ran down and the nWo retreted through the crowd. Card rating: * 1/4 ------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (Aug. 19, 1996) Mr. J.L. pinned Silver King with the Moonsault in 7:01. Rating: * ¾ (Mr. J.L. retained the WCW WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE.)JL opened the show with a successful defense of his Cruiserweight title against the debuting Silver King. After the match, however, Dean Malenko ran in and attacked the champion, locking him in the Texas Cloverleaf, demanding a title shot. Rey Mysterio Jr. ran down to break Malenko off. Carl Ouellet pinned Ice Train with the Cannonball in 9:52. Rating: * ¾New on the scene in WCW, Carl Ouellet is a tough, physical competitor and he showed that in his debut match, beating Ice Train. Lex Luger made Greg Valentine submit to the Torture Rack in 11:06. Rating: * 1/2Luger got a victory, after his match, he was approached by Diamond Dallas Page. DDP said last week Luger called out the WCW locker room, and DDP was answering the call. Luger said he admires that, but that he looks at DDP and sees someone who used to manage Scott Hall, someone who was Kevin Nash's tag team partner. DDP said that was a lifetime ago. In the modern day, he's ready to defend WCW against anyone. Luger simply replied, "Then show me." Interview with Stone Cold Steve AustinStone Cold Steve Austin was interviewed about what happend last week in his match with Ric Flair, and the ending has many questioning if he's the next member of the nWo. Austin said he didn't see Hogan come down and sure as heck didn't invite him. Austin went on to say he's run with gangs before and he's doing much better for himself on his own. So that's how he's going to stay on his own. But he'll open up a can of whoopass on anyone in front of him, nWo or WCW. Glacier pinned Van Hammer after a Cryonic Kick in 7:49. Rating: *While Glacier was on his way to another win with Ricky Steamboat in his corner, Johnny B. Badd shocked the announcers by joining them in the broadcast booth. He kept criticizing his former partner in Steamboat and making fun of Glacier who he kept calling a “Mortal Kombat” wannabe. Interview with The Ultimate MalesThe Ultimate Males, both of them this time, did an interview. Riggs asked Wright where he was last week. Wright said he needed some time to think things over. They had a good run, reached the top together, but lately it doesn't seem to be working anymore and he's wondering if it’s still worth it. Riggs pleaded with Wright and made a case that they became champions once and they can do it again. Wright seemed reluctant, but ended up shaking Riggs hand. The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw defeated The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) when Bradshaw pinned Meng with the Lariat in 14:37. Rating: *** (The Unforgiven retained the WCW WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES.)Speaking of the WCW tag team scene, the world champions, The Unforgiven scored yet another victory over the team they took the titles from. Meng was in and dominating Barry Windham, but he took his eye off Justin Bradshaw who came hit and hit a vicious lariat that led to a pin. Hollywood Hogan pinned Ric Flair with the Big Leg Drop in 17:08. Rating: * 1/2 (Hollywood Hogan retained the WCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE.)Ric Flair had Hogan in the figure four and it looked like Hogan was getting ready to submit. But Hogan grabbed hold of the ref, keeping him from calling for the bell. Meanwhile, Rick Rude grabbed a can of spraypaint and sprayed Flair in the eyes. A blinded Flair let go of the hold and Hogan regrouped, dropped his leg and got the pin. This brought out the other members of the Horsemen into the ring, but Nash and Hall also jumped in and used spray cans to blind the Horsemen and attack them. Luger, Savage and Vader all ran down but all met the same fate. Diamond Dallas Page ran down but was quickly dispatched. The nWo took many of the downed WCW stars and spraypainted “nWo” on their backs, leaving them lying in a sea of carnage. Card rating: * 3/4 ----------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (Aug. 26, 1996) Diamond Dallas Page pinned M. Wallstreet with the Diamond Cutter in 3:50. Rating: * ½DDP made quick work of M. Wallsreet then made a plea. He said he knows Lex Luger questioned his past and he couldn’t hide who he teammed with before. But he is 100% WCW. He knows War Games is coming up, and he wants in. The Destruction Crew (Mike Enos and Wayne Bloom) defeated The Ultimate Males (Alex Wright and Scotty Riggs) when Enos defeated Riggs when Riggs passed out in the Double Hammerlock Submission in 11:33. Rating: ** ½The Ultimate Males were back together tonight after Alex Wright admitting questioning the team last week. Wright started off the match hot, but eventually, things turned when the Destruction Crew isolated Scotty Riggs. After taking a beating for a while, Riggs finally broke free and went to make his way to make the tag, but Wright, instead of tagging in, jumped down off the apron and walked to the back. Riggs was no match alone for the Destruction Crew. Konnan made Greg Valentine submit to the Tequila Sunrise in 9:28. Rating: ** 1/2 (Konnan retained the WCW TELEVISION TITLE.)After a successful TV title defense, Konnan was asked about Eddie Guerrero's challenge from a few weeks ago. Konnan said Eddie was like a little brother to him. He helped train Eddie and was a mentor to Eddie. He was responsible for Eddie's rise in the Mexican leagues and coming to the United States. But if the little brother thinks they can take down the big brother, lets see what he has. Chris Candido pinned Van Hammer with the Blonde Bombshell in 0:09:37. Rating: ** 1/2
Eddie Guerrero getting a TV title shot did not sit well with Chris Candido. After his win, Candido spoke saying it was a travesty Eddie gets a shot before he gets a rematch for his belt. Eddie can have his match, but Candido said he's gonna keep a real close eye on it. The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) defeated David Taylor and Steve Regal when R. Steiner pinned D. Taylor with the Steiner Bulldog in 12:53. Rating: *** ¼The Steiners want to work their way back up the tag team ladder, but so did Regal and Taylor. But the Steiners had a little too much for the two British stars on this night. Stone Cold Steve Austin pinned Davey Boy Smith with the Stone Cold Stunner in 11:18. Rating: * 1/2 (Stone Cold Steve Austin retained the WCW UNITED STATES TITLE.)Davey Boy Smith was upset with what happened last week, and he demanded another shot at Steve Austin. However, the former US Champion didn’t far much better than the night he lost the title to Austin. Randy Savage confronts Ric FlairRandy Savage was scheduled to have a match against Ric Flair, but Savage instead had another idea. Savage came with Luger and Vader to the ring and made an offer to the Horsemen. They wanted Ric Flair to join with them to fight the nWo at Fall Brawl in War Games. The two sides went back and forth professing their allegiance to WCW and what they have given to the company and what they're willing to do to stop the nWo. Flair was a little skeptical that he'd be better off with the three of them rather than the Horsemen. But they convinced him that a show of unity was the best option and all cards being put on the table, these were the four best WCW had to fight against the nWo. It took a while, including Flair getting his fellow Horsemen's approval, but he accepted the offer. Card rating: ** 1/4
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Post by cardsflyinhigh on Mar 26, 2022 13:19:41 GMT -5
MONDAY NITRO (Sept. 2, 1996) Rey Misterio Jr. pinned Dean Malenko with the Top-Rope Frankensteiner in 12:24. Rating: *** ¾In a match designated a top contender’s match for the Cruiserweight title, Misterio and Malenko put on a fantastic match despite their contrast in styles. Misterio used his quickness and athleticism with his high flying moves, while Malenko was more methodical, trying to take Misterio apart. In the end, Malenko tried to go for a powerbomb off the top rope, but Misterio reversed it and ended up getting the win and a shot at Mr. JL’s title. The Destruction Crew (Mike Enos and Wayne Bloom) defeated Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) when W. Bloom pinned Booker with the Butterfly Suplex in 10:32. Rating: ** ¼Harlem Heat have been adamant about getting a world tag title shot, but the Unforgiven don’t seem to want to defend against them. The Unforgiven struck tonight, attacking Harlem Heat during their match with the Destruction Crew costing them the match. Interview with Diamond Dallas PagePage spoke with Gene Okerlund, upset that he wasn’t chosen to be on Team WCW at War Games. He wanted to know who made guys like Lex Luger and Randy Savage the head of WCW. He is all willing to help fight for WCW but it seems they don’t want him around. Page pointed out what a great job Luger and the group have been doing leading WCW as they have done absolutely nothing to stop the nWo since Day 1. He tried to step up to help lead the fight and can’t understand why he got shut down. Carl Oulette pinned Ice Train with the Cannonball in 10:45. Rating: *Newcomer Carl Oulette posted another impressive victory, getting a win over Ice Train. Oulette is proving very quickly to be a very tough competitor. Konnan and Eddie Guerrero defeated Lord Steven Regal and David Taylor when Konnan made D. Taylor submit to the Tequila Sunrise in 13:08. Rating: ** 3/4Ahead of their TV title match at Fall Brawl, Konnan and Eddie Guerrero teamed together, and things seemed to be going well for the most part. But near the end of the match, their team was on the verge of winning. Eddie went up top and came off hitting David Taylor with his frog splash. But while he was standing on the turnbuckle, Konnan blind-tagged himself in. Guerrero didn't notice and tried to go for the pin, but the referee wouldn't let him and forced Guerrero out of the ring. Konnan meanwhile came in and locked Taylor in the Tequilla Sunrise, getting the submission. After, Guerrero looked confused as Konnan wanted to celebrate their win. Alex Wright pinned Billy Kidman with the Reverse Neckbreaker in 5:47. Rating: ** ¾Alex Wright wrestled in singles and beat Billy Kidman, showing a bit of a more aggressive side to him. After the match, Scotty Riggs came down to confront Wright about what's going on lately. Wright just said this doesn't work for him anymore, and walked away while Riggs didn't seem to get the answer he was looking for. Big Van Vader, Lex Luger and Randy Savage defeated Marcus Bagwell, Arn Anderson and Davey Boy Smith when Savage defeated A. Anderson by disqualification in 15:53. Rating: ** 1/4While the team of Luger, Vader and Savage asked for and received Ric Flair's help to go against the nWo in War Games, the rest of the Horsemen wanted to make sure they could live up to their end of the bargin, challenging them to a 6 man match tonight. After a while, Rick Rude showed up at ringside with a chair while Davey Boy and Luger were fighting on the floor. Luger saw him and started pursuing Rude who was backing up around the ring. However, this just led to a trap, as Hogan and the Outsiders came over the guardrail and jumped Luger. They had chairs and cans of spraypaint and began attacking everybody. Rude even produced a few sets of Handcuffs as they locked up Luger to the guardrail and beat him, they locked up Vader in the ropes. They decimated the Horsemen. Flair even ran down to try to help, but the same fate befelled him. Leaving carnage in the ring, the four nWo members went over to the broadcast booth, chasing away Eric Bishoff and Bobby Heenan. They spraypained "NWO" over the WCW logo displays. Card rating: ** 1/4 --------------------------- MONDAY NITRO (Sept. 9, 1996)
Johnny B. Badd pinned Ricky Steamboat with the Tutti Frutti in 8:57. Ricky Steamboat suffered an elbow injury. He will be out for approximately 2 months Rating: ** ½Johnny B. Badd showed no mercy on his former partner Steamboat. Once again, Badd again mocked Glacier's martial arts style through the match. Badd got the win, but kept attacking Steamboat after the match, putting him in an arm lock until Glacier ran down for the save. Diamond Dallas Page pinned Shark with the Diamond Cutter in 10:20. Rating: *Page scored a quick victory, but as soon as the match was over, Lex Luger came out to confront him. Luger brought up Page's complaining about not being apart of team WCW, but when they needed help last week, where was he? Page said after his interview he left the arena to catch a flight back to Atlanta since no one wanted him around. Luger brought up that the nWo hasn’t revealed their fourth man for War Games, how is he supposed to know it wasn’t Page. Page asked if he smacked himself in the knee with a bat backstage in Orlando? Then countered and said how does he know Luger isn’t the fourth guy since all he’s done is lay down for the nWo in every match. As the two argued, Rick Rude came out and began talking down to them and WCW as a whole. This momentarily united Luger and Page who both left the ring and started after Rude chasing him all the way to the back and out the back door. But this was just another trap as a car raced by attempting to run both Page and Luger over. Page, fortunately, was able to avoid it, pulling Luger out of the way as well before he was ran over. Rude was about to get in the car when Page came back with a brick he found laying nearby and spiked it at the car breaking the back window. The car took off before Rude could get in, and Rude began to run away. Page, though, chased him and they both ran out of sight. Other Team WCW members, Savage, Vader and the Horsemen came out to check on Luger. Psychosis pinned Juventud Guerrera after a back suplex in 13:40. Rating: *** ¾Psychosis made a big jump up the cruiserweight rankings scoring a victory over Guerrera, catching him coming off the ropes for a move, countering with a back suplex. The Faces of Fear (Meng and The Barbarian) and Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T) defeated The Unforgiven (Barry Windham and Justin Bradshaw) and The Destruction Crew (Mike Enos and Wayne Bloom) when Booker pinned Bradshaw with the Axe Kick in 15:35. Rating: * ½The Unforgiven told the Destruction Crew if they teamed up and kept Harlem Heat away from a world tag title match, the shot would go to them instead. They didn't think Harlem Heat could find partners. They found the Faces of Fear, a team that had just as much of a grudge against the champs. Carl Ouellet pinned Chris Kanyon with the Cannonball in 12:42. Rating: ** 3/4Carl Ouellet has been turning heads since his arrival in WCW. But it hasn’t just been fans and the WCW executives taking notice. During his match, a big beast of a man in a black trench coat was seen hanging around near the side entrance. Announcers noticed it was independent wrestling star 911. Interview with The Horsemen
The Horsemen spoke together, with the rest of the group giving a warning to Luger, Vader and Savage that they better hold up their end of the deal working with Ric Flair at War Games. But they also said they know those guys bleed WCW. Arn Anderson said he’s starting to wonder where other loyalties lie, bringing up Stone Cold Steve Austin, who’s been conspicuous by his absence whenever the nWo comes around. Except for when Hulk Hogan hit Ric Flair with a chair during a match a few weeks ago. He knows more than anybody how close Austin and Rick Rude were years ago. And he demands to know where Austin stands. Ric Flair and Randy Savage and The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) battled to a double countout in 17:27. Rating: **To show they can work together, Flair and Savage teamed together in the main event against the Steiners. There was some obvious distrust between Savage and Flair, but they seemed to be able to put that aside to work toward the common goal of leading WCW. The match was good but after a while, Diamond Dallas Page came running out from the back saying the nWo came back. They’re in the parking lot right now. Page was saying he lost track of Rude, but hid and waited til they came back for him. Once everyone got to the back, there were two nWo limos. Once seeing WCW come running out, nWo members, including Rude all piled into one and quickly took off. WCW members though took it upon themselves to get in the second, where the nWo left behind a couple cans of their trademark spraypaint. WCW then took a page from the nWo, tagging the Limo painting “WCW” all over it. Card rating: ** 1/4
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