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WWF
Feb 25, 2012 18:27:32 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Feb 25, 2012 18:27:32 GMT -5
March 1988
Just days before Wrestlemania IV, and the tournament to decide the next WWF Champion, WWF owner Vince McMahon announced a revolution in wrestling. From now on, there would be no “jobbers” feeding easy victories to the “Superstars” of the WWF. All wrestling programs were cancelled, and a new wrestling show would debut on the night after Wrestlemania IV, titled Monday Night Raw. Showing every Monday, the show would last for two hours and feature high quality wrestling action pitting the “Superstars” against each other, which had only ever been seen before on TV in pay-per-view events. The wrestling calendar would still feature the 4 main pay-per-view events (Royal Rumble, Wrestlemania, SummerSlam and Survivor Series), together with Wrestlefest each summer and the King of the Ring annual tournament, which would now be a new pay-per-view each year. Making the announcement at a press conference McMahon said he hoped this would take WWF to a whole new level of competition and set the standard for wrestling for years to come. Finally, McMahon announced he would be taking over the responsibilities of WWF President from the current incumbent, Jack Tunney, who many had seen as a puppet figure for McMahon anyway. The card for Wrestlemania IV has not been changed, it is as follows:
WWF World Title Tournament
1st Round
“Hacksaw” Jim Duggan v Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase Don Muraco v Dino Bravo Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat v Greg “Hammer” Valentine Macho Man Randy Savage v “Natural” Butch Reed Jake “Snake” Roberts v “Ravishing” Rick Rude Bam Bam Bigelow v One Man Gang
2nd Round
Hulk Hogan v Andre the Giant
WWF InterContinental Title Match
Brutus “Barber” Beefcake v Honky Tonk Man
WWF World Tag Team Titles Match
Strike Force v Demolition
British Bulldogs v The Islanders Ultimate Warrior v Hercules
16 Man Battle Royal
The Rougeaus, The Killer Bees, Young Stallions, The Hart Foundation, The Bolsheviks, “Outlaw” Ron Bass, Bad News Brown, Harley Race, Ken Patera, Junkyard Dog and Hillbilly Jim
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WWF
Feb 25, 2012 21:15:32 GMT -5
Post by murphy42782 on Feb 25, 2012 21:15:32 GMT -5
Glad your posting again. Followed your circuits on the old boards. Always felt they were simple and easy to follow. I like things from this time frame too. Like you promoting it as the death of jobbing. Makes it feel like everyone will have a chance to get ahead. Hopefully you get off to a good start and keep the ball rolling
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WWF
Feb 26, 2012 13:50:32 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Feb 26, 2012 13:50:32 GMT -5
Thanks for that, it's nice to get good feedback.
I have a lot more responsibilities than when I used to post circuits (children, work, studying), but I couldn't stay away from TNM!!
I am going to try and be a bit more detailed on this circuit and take my time over storylines rather than just churning out cards too quickly and losing the track of the circuit.
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WWF
Feb 26, 2012 16:21:39 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Feb 26, 2012 16:21:39 GMT -5
Wrestlemania IV
Results
Bad News Brown won a 16 man Battle Royal
WWF World Title Tournament
1st Round
Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase defeated “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan via DQ (11:12)
Don Muraco defeated Dino Bravo via pinfall (7:08)
Greg “Hammer” Valentine defeated Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat via pinfall (11:14)
Macho Man Randy Savage defeated “Natural” Butch Reed via countout (8:08)
Jake “Snake” Roberts and “Ravishing” Rick Rude fought to a time limit draw (15:00)
One Man Gang defeated Bam Bam Bigelow via countout (3:40)
Grudge Match
Ultimate Warrior defeated Hercules via pinfall (7:23)
WWF World Title Tournament
2nd Round
Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant fought to a double countout (14:36)
Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase defeated Don Muraco via pinfall (9:03)
Macho Man Randy Savage defeated Greg “Hammer” Valentine via pinfall (2:54)
One Man Gang received a bye
WWF World Tag Team Titles Match
Demolition defeated Strike Force when Smash pinned Tito Santana (15:19)
(Demolition won the WWF World Tag Team Titles)
WWF World Title Tournament
Semi Finals
Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase received a bye
Macho Man Randy Savage defeated One Man Gang via DQ (5:53)
WWF InterContinental Title Match
Honky Tonk Man defeated Brutus “Barber” Beefcake via pinfall (15:28)
(Honky Tonk Man retained WWF InterContinental Title)
Grudge Match
British Bulldogs defeated The Islanders when Davey Boy Smith pinned Haku (8:57)
WWF World Title Match
Macho Man Randy Savage defeated Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase via pinfall (13:21)
(Macho Man Randy Savage won the WWF World Title)
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WWF
Feb 27, 2012 12:31:53 GMT -5
Post by JoshiQ on Feb 27, 2012 12:31:53 GMT -5
I'll be reading. Kind of weird seeing a promotion announcing there will be no more jobbers. Raw being around in the '80s could be intriguing. This'll definitely be a unique circuit.
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WWF
Feb 28, 2012 18:54:16 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Feb 28, 2012 18:54:16 GMT -5
Thanks for the comments.
Although it served a purpose I never liked the shows where jobbers got beat in most of the matches each week, but I'm aware that too much action each week also weakens the pay per views (WWE 2012 is proof of that!), hence just 1 show per week.
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WWF
Feb 28, 2012 19:01:40 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Feb 28, 2012 19:01:40 GMT -5
March/April 1988 - roster
FACES
Macho Man Randy Savage (WWF Champion) Hulk Hogan Jake "Snake" Roberts Brutus "Barber" Beefcake Ultimate Warrior Ricky "Dragon" Steamboat "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan Junkyard Dog Don Muraco Ken Patera Hillbilly Jim Koko B.Ware
Strike Force British Bulldogs The Rougeau Brothers The Killer Bees Young Stallions
HEELS
Andre the Giant Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase "Ravishing" Rick Rude Honky Tonk Man (I-C Champion) Greg "Hammer" Valentine "Natural" Butch Reed Harley Race Bad News Brown Hercules Dino Bravo "Outlaw" Ron Bass One Man Gang
Demolition (WWF Tag Team Champions) The Hart Foundation The Islanders The Bolsheviks
I think I have most of the actual roster from the time, but it looks a little weak to me, so I may have to change history in terms of bringing wrestlers in etc. (I didn't want to just copy what happened in real life anyway, because what would the point of that be?).
Anyway, watch out for the next card, the 1st ever Monday Night Raw!!!!!
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WWF
Feb 29, 2012 16:35:14 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Feb 29, 2012 16:35:14 GMT -5
THE 1st MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 28/3/1988
WWF Owner and President Vince McMahon opened the first ever episode of Monday Night Raw. He promised WWF fans all over the world that a revolution was happening in wrestling and from now on fans watching each week on their television sets at home as well as those watching live in the arena would witness the highest quality of wrestling entertainment ever seen – and it would be happening each and every Monday night!! McMahon finished his opening speech by announcing that tonight there would be 2 title matches. Strike Force would get a chance to win back their WWF World Tag Team Titles when they face up in a rematch against Demolition and the main event would see WWF World Champion Macho Man Randy Savage defend his title against Andre the Giant!!!!!!
British Bulldogs and The Hart Foundation battled to a time limit draw (20:00)
The first ever match on MNR was a cracker between two of the greatest tag teams of all time as The British Bulldogs and The Hart Foundation renewed their rivalry from 1987. On this occasion, at the end of a tremendous match, neither side was able to gain the 1-2-3 and the match ended in a time limit draw. Nothing was settled here……
Interview: Honky Tonk Man (and Jimmy Hart)
In an interview with Mean Gene Okerlund, the WWF InterContinental Champion bragged about his victory over Brutus “Barber” Beefcake, dismissed any future opportunities for Beefcake and questioned whether anyone on the WWF roster was good enough to challenge and dethrone him.
Bad News Brown defeated Koko B.Ware via pinfall (5:45)
The newcomer from Harlem continued his impressive start to his tenure in the WWF as he made short work of the “Birdman” delivering his “Ghetto Blaster” finish to gain a relatively easy victory.
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat defeated “King” Harley Race via pinfall (15:49)
A classic match between 2 wily veterans went back and forth throughout with neither man able to gain a sufficient advantage until eventually Steamboat gained the upper hand, leaping from the top rope to finally pin Race’s shoulders to the mat and gain a solid victory, which could possibly be a stepping stone to a title opportunity?
Interview: Macho Man Randy Savage (with Elizabeth)
Mean Gene Okerlund congratulated the Macho Man on his newly won WWF World Title but questioned whether or not he was in the right physical condition to meet the challenge of the Giant. Savage said he was ready for anything and anyone as he was on top of the world right now and that’s where he intended to stay, no matter who tried to take his title away. At this point Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase showed up with Virgil, Andre the Giant and Bobby Heenan. DiBiase grabbed the microphone stating that he would do whatever it takes at whatever cost to make sure he was the next WWF Champion. The interview descended into chaos as Savage tried to get to DiBiase and security and a number of WWF officials had to intervene.
WWF World Tag Team Titles Match
Demolition defeated Strike Force via pinfall (18:27)
Much to the dismay of Ax, Smash and their manager Mr Fuji, Demolition were forced to face the former champions again, just the night after defeating them for the titles. Demolition dominated in the early stages, but gradually Strike Force took control of the match. Just when it looked as though Martel and Santana would regain the titles, and Demolition’s reign would be a very short one, the devious one interfered, distracting Santana and the referee long enough for Ax to use his cane on Martel, giving Smash an easy cover and Demolition retained the titles. Due to the nature of the victory however, Strike Force are bound to be looking for another chance at the titles.
“Ravishing” Rick Rude defeated Jake “Snake” Roberts (7:55)
A surprisingly one sided match ended abruptly when Rude managed to hit his patented “Rude Awakening” finisher on Roberts, giving him the victory. Immediately after the match, Rude grabbed a microphone and declared he was looking for some gold to complement his simply ravishing body and he didn’t care who he had to step over on his path towards becoming a champion in the WWF!!!!
Main Event
WWF World Title Match
Macho Man Randy Savage defeated Andre the Giant via pinfall (12:53)
The challenger from Grenoble completely dominated the champion using his near 300lb weight advantage to good effect with a number of crushing moves on the Macho Man. The Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase came to ringside early in the match and whenever Savage looked like making a comeback either DiBiase, Virgil or Heenan distracted him long enough for Andre to gain the upper hand once again. Finally, the referee made all 3 leave the ringside area. This led to a comeback from Savage, and after a number of high flying moves left the Giant on the mat, one final flying elbow was enough for the Macho Man to retain his WWF World Title. As soon as the announcement was made, DiBiase and Virgil were back and together with the now recovered Giant, they destroyed Savage, leaving him lying in the middle of the ring. The first edition of Monday Night Raw ended with Miss Elizabeth kneeling over her fallen champion and DiBiase and his cohorts leaving the ring, laughing.
NOTES:
The 1st ever Monday Night Raw certainly lived up to its billing as it was filled with incredible action and no shortage of controversy. How will the WWF Champion recover from the beating he received tonight? Who will be next in line to challenge for the InterContinental title? Will Strike Force be granted another opportunity after the controversial finish to their match tonight? Stay tuned next week for the answers to these, and many more questions!!!
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WWF
Mar 3, 2012 14:32:49 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 3, 2012 14:32:49 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 4/4/1988
As Monday Night Raw started, the fans went crazy as Hulk Hogan made his way to the ring to address the fans. Hogan talked about his disappointment at not winning back the WWF title, but that he was happy for his good friend the Macho Man. Hogan then apologised for not being at Raw last week, but promised that in future he would always be around to watch the back of the Macho Man and make sure there was no repeat of last week’s cowardly attack by DiBiase and any of his paid mercenaries. The Hulkster then talked about how anyone who crossed his path would be sorry as he was determined to fight his way back to the top, starting with Butch Reed tonight!
Bret “Hitman” Hart defeated Dynamite Kid via submission (17:27)
After opening last week’s Raw with their respective partners, the Hitman and the Dynamite Kid opened again this week, this time in singles competition. Arguably two of the best technical wrestlers on the current WWF roster, this match was a true wrestling clinic sending the fans into raptures throughout its duration. Eventually, Hart managed to lock one half of the British Bulldogs into a submission move and eventually, Dynamite was left with no choice but to submit.
Ultimate Warrior defeated Hercules via disqualification (3:06)
Another rematch from Wrestlemania IV pitted these two muscle men against each other. Bobby Heenan’s man was in charge in the very early stages but the Warrior very quickly managed to change the momentum of the match, as none of Hercules’ blows were having any effect on him. In the end Hercules resorted to some devious tactics pulling the referee between himself and the Warrior to avoid another blow, but costing himself a DQ loss in the process.
Interview: Strike Force
Mean Gene Okerlund made his way to the interview area to talk to the former tag team champions. Martel and Santana were clearly still furious about the way they lost their match last week, thanks to the underhand tactics of Mr Fuji and Demolition. Their tirade continued for a few minutes as they demanded another chance at the champions. Unexpectedly, WWF President Vince McMahon came out to the interview area as well. After calming down both men, McMahon announced that as far as he was concerned, Martel and Santana were still the No.1 contenders for the tag titles and they would be getting another match against Demolition very soon, much to the approval of both Strike Force and the majority of fans in the arena.
Killer Bees and The Islanders fought to a time limit draw (20:00)
A fine match between two teams both trying to put themselves into the title picture remained unresolved as neither team could find a way to get a 1-2-3 within the time limit.
WWF InterContinental Title Match
Honky Tonk Man defeated Don Muraco via pinfall (9:43)
To the surprise of some, WWF President Vince McMahon granted a title shot to “The Rock” and in the early stages it looked as though the former champion might well reclaim the title, many years after his first reign. Muraco, a wily veteran did not fall for any of the tricks of the champion, or his manager Jimmy Hart and he was about to set up the Honky Tonk Man for the finish, when suddenly Dino Bravo appeared from the back and, as Hart distracted the referee, he blindsided Muraco, eventually leaving him lying in the ring, ripe for the Shake, Rattle and Roll from the Honky Tonk Man, enabling him to retain his beloved WWF I-C title. Muraco was justifiably furious and as soon as he recovered, he chased off after Bravo!
Interview: Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase (with Virgil)
Again, Mean Gene Okerlund was on interviewing duties as he spoke to a clearly delighted Million Dollar Man, who openly bragged about the attack on the WWF Champion Macho Man Randy Savage on last week’s Monday Night Raw. DiBiase told Savage he was lucky to win the title at WM IV, but his luck wouldn’t last forever, and that he would be the next WWF champion, no matter what it took, or how much it cost. Finally, DiBiase warned Savage to watch his back, because everybody had a price for the Million Dollar Man!!!
Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase defeated Ken Patera via pinfall (17:00)
Straight after his interview DiBiase went into action as he faced former Olympian Ken Patera. The Million Dollar Man was like a man possessed as he dominated the match, even pulling Patera’s head up when he was in a pinning predicament. In the end DiBiase decided he had made his point as he easily covered an almost unconscious Patera at the 17 minute mark, although in truth the match could have been over in less than a quarter of that time.
Main Event
Hulk Hogan defeated “Natural” Butch Reed via DQ (11:29)
The final match of the night saw the Hulkster in action for the first time since his disappointment at WM IV. Butch Reed was not only accompanied by his manager Slick, but One Man Gang also made his way down to ringside before the bell rang for the start of the match. After a slow start Hulk was going for his patented legdrop finish when Gang pulled the rope down, causing “Natural” to be disqualified. Even though the match was over the attack continued as Hogan was eventually beat down in the middle of the ring, before One Man Gang landed his 747 splash, causing Hulkster to writhe in agony. Finally, the locker room emptied as Hacksaw Duggan, British Bulldogs and others chased Slick, Reed and Gang from the ringside area. The show ended with Hulk being helped to the back, in obvious agony.
NOTES:
For the 2nd week in a row, Monday Night Raw ends with a fan favourite being helped from the ring, this time it was the turn of Hulk Hogan. Another marred title defence for Honky Tonk Man but he won’t care, as long as he keeps that InterContinental Title around his waist, this time helped by Dino Bravo. The Million Dollar Man was a man on a mission tonight and he had a point to prove, and prove it he did, with a decisive one sided victory over Ken Patera. DiBiase is not going to rest until he is the WWF Champion, the Macho Man should be warned!! Strike Force have been granted what they were after, and felt they deserved, as they were awarded another title shot at Demolition. Martel and Santana will be out to show they can overcome the devious Mr Fuji and his men, to regain the belts. Finally, from the offices of WWF President has come the announcement that on next week’s Monday Night Raw, any wrestlers who have not so far appeared, will be in action.
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WWF
Mar 4, 2012 18:16:17 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 4, 2012 18:16:17 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 11/4/1988
The Rougeaus defeated The Bolsheviks via DQ (11:57)
The first surprise of the night saw Jimmy Hart accompany Slick and The Bolsheviks down to ringside for this opening match, leaving the fans trying to guess why? The match itself was a contrast in styles as the more technical Canadians took on the brawling Russians. The finish came when Slick got involved just as it looked like The Rougeaus might pick up a clean pinfall victory, instead costing his men a DQ loss.
Interview: “Ravishing” Rick Rude (with Bobby Heenan)
Boasting a new look with a much shorter hair cut, Rude was all business from the start of the interview with Mean Gene. The arrogance was still evident, but it was being channelled into a new found determination to climb the ranks of the WWF. Rude stated that he had worked out how to really make his mark in the WWF and he had a plan that would ultimately lead him to the WWF World Title. When Okerlund tried to find out more, Rude simply said he knew who he had to target to make a real impact on the WWF and that man had better watch his back! With that he stormed away from the interview area, with his manager Bobby Heenan, following him looking just as determined.
Junkyard Dog defeated “Outlaw” Ron Bass via pinfall (5:24)
The crowd absolutely loved seeing one of the most popular wrestlers on the WWF roster take on the dastardly Bass, even more so when he was able to gain a solid victory in his first appearance on Monday Night Raw.
Dino Bravo defeated Brutus “Barber” Beefcake via countout (5:48)
No sooner had this match started before it descended into chaos as Jimmy Hart led Honky Tonk Man and Greg “Hammer” Valentine down to ringside. Beefcake tried his best but he couldn’t battle 5 men, and with the referee constantly distracted, the InterContinental champion hit his patented “Shake, Rattle and Roll” on the outside of the ring, causing “The Barber” to lose via a countout decision as there was no way he was going to beat the count. After the match, the punishment continued for Beefcake until Ricky Steamboat and Don Muraco came down to make the save, chasing the heels off.
Interview: Hulk Hogan & Hillbilly Jim
Once again, Mean Gene Okerlund was joined in the interview area, this time by the Hulkster and Hillbilly Jim. Hogan started by thanking Vince McMahon for allowing him the chance to gain some revenge over Butch Reed and One Man Gang so quickly, after their vicious attack on him last week. Then, turning his attention to his partner, he thanked Hillbilly Jim for volunteering to step up and be his tag team partner. Hulkster finished by guaranteeing to make Reed and Gang (and Slick) sorry for what they did last week!!
Non-Title Match
Demolition defeated Young Stallions via pinfall (11:43)
The world tag team champions were absolutely ruthless in this non-title match up against the youthful pairing of Jim Powers and Paul Roma. The Young Stallions gave it their best but they were not match for Fuji’s men, who gained a comfortable victory.
“Ravishing” Rick Rude defeated “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan via pinfall (19:07)
A fine match between 2 no nonsense superstars, both on the top of their game, gave the fans plenty of exciting action to appreciate. Duggan was continually distracted by Bobby Heenan at ringside but he should have realised he had more than enough to handle in the ring with an incredibly focussed Rude. Ultimately, Rude had too much for “Hacksaw” and he landed his patented “Rude Awakening” from nowhere to gain the 1-2-3.
Interview: “Natural” Butch Reed & One Man Gang (with Slick)
Slick led his men to the stage, all 3 men smiling and happily gloating about their actions last week. While Mean Gene Okerlund tried to berate Slick for orchestrating the attack, the “Doctor of Style” continued to brag and promised Hulk Hogan that he and Hillbilly Jim would be getting some more of the same in the main event tonight. With that, they left the interview area and headed for the ring.
Main Event
Hulk Hogan & Hillbilly Jim defeated “Natural” Butch Reed & One Man Gang via pinfall (17:20)
Slick’s men dominated large parts of this match, particularly targeting Hillbilly Jim, who they clearly thought was the weak link on the team. Slowly, the Hulkster and the Hillbilly came back into the match, and eventually it was a big slam on the Gang, followed by a big legdrop on Reed that gave Hogan and his partner the win. Celebrations were short however, because as Slick’s men took care of Hillbilly Jim, “Ravishing” Rick Rude rushed to the ring and blindsided the Hulkster, followed by a brutal beating that left blood pouring from Hogan’s head. Earlier in the night Rude promised to send a message and target a high profile member of the WWF roster and he certainly achieved both here.
NOTES:
Just when the Hulkster thought he had a reason to celebrate after gaining a quick revenge over Slick, Butch Reed and One Man Gang, his joy was brought to a sudden halt, thanks to a vicious sneak attack from the “Ravishing” one. Clearly Rude was sending a message, not only to Hogan, but also to WWF Champion Macho Man Randy Savage and the rest of the WWF. Rude is not going to be stopped easily, if indeed he is going to be stopped at all. Always a very talented wrestler, his new level of focus may help to take him to the next level in the WWF. As for the Hulkster, it may take him a little while to recover from this latest setback, but there is no doubt as soon as he is back, he will be gunning for Rick Rude!
As a result of the chaos during and following the Beefcake/Bravo match, WWF President has announced a big 6 man tag match for next week’s Monday Night Raw. Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat, Don Muraco and Brutus “Barber” Beefcake will battle InterContinental champion Honky Tonk Man, Greg “Hammer” Valentine and Dino Bravo!!
There is also expected to be an announcement from WWF President Vince McMahon about a new pay per view event in the WWF calendar.
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WWF
Mar 5, 2012 8:51:40 GMT -5
Post by mdale2k on Mar 5, 2012 8:51:40 GMT -5
I am really digging this start.
Rick Rude with a new attitude is awesome, one of my favourites, hopefully he goes to the top
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WWF
Mar 5, 2012 15:47:44 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 5, 2012 15:47:44 GMT -5
Thanks.
Rude and DiBiase were two of my favourites but in a time of Hogan and Warrior dominating, I don't think either really got the credit they deserved, Rude certainly didn't until he went back to WCW in 1991.
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WWF
Mar 9, 2012 17:36:07 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 9, 2012 17:36:07 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW 18/4/1988
Monday Night Raw opened with WWF President Vince McMahon making his way to the ring. McMahon started by getting the crowd going before making a series of announcements. First of all, a new pay per view event was being added to the calendar. In June, the King of the Ring tournament would make its debut as a full pay per view event. On the night there would be an 8 man tournament to decide the WWF’s King of the Ring. Not only that, but the tournament winner would also gain an InterContinental Title shot at Wrestlefest 88!!! As the fans started to go wild, McMahon then announced that there would be a series of qualifying matches to determine the 8 participants in the tournament, and these matches would feature almost all of the WWF roster! Not only that, but the qualifying matches would start tonight!!!!
McMahon then went on to say he had already decided that as well as the tournament King of the Ring 1988 would feature a World Tag Team Titles Match between Demolition and the No.1 contenders – Strike Force. Finally, Macho Man Randy Savage would also be defending his WWF World Title against the No.1 contender – Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase.
McMahon – “Without further ado, let’s get straight to the action and the first King of the Ring qualifying match!!!!”
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
“Outlaw” Ron Bass defeated B.Brian Blair via pinfall (12:55)
The Killer Bee started off at a frantic pace showcasing his full array of wrestling moves, but ultimately, it was the underhand tactics of his mean opponent who managed to gain both the victory and a place in the 2nd round of the tournament.
Interview: Andre the Giant (with Bobby Heenan)
Mean Gene Okerlund introduced Andre the Giant and his manager Bobby “Brain” Heenan! Andre, a man of few words made his intentions very clear. He was going to fight his way back to the top of the WWF and he didn’t care who got in his way, they would just be another victim on his way back to the WWF Championship, starting with Hillbilly Jim!!!
Andre the Giant defeated Hillbilly Jim via pinfall (8:00)
This match got ugly early as Andre the Giant absolutely crushed his opponent, toying with him throughout, delivering one devastating blow after another until he finally put the Hillbilly out of his misery with an easy victory. Unfortunately, although the match was over the punishment wasn’t as Andre continued his assault, leaving Hillbilly Jim in agony, clutching his ribs, in the middle of the ring. Eventually, as a smiling Andre and his manager, Bobby Heenan, went backstage, paramedics rushed out to assist Hillbilly Jim, onto a stretcher and then to an ambulance to rush him to hospital.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Bad News Brown defeated Ken Patera via pinfall (4:19)
The 2nd qualifying match of the night saw Patera start off on fire, gaining the upper hand in the early stages of the match, but quickly the momentum turned and it was Bad News Brown who advanced with a crushing victory over the former Olympian. Davey Boy Smith defeated Jim “Anvil” Niedhart via pinfall (6:18) Following the match between their respective partners the two powerhouses of the British Bulldogs and The Hart Foundation faced off against each other. This time, it was the men from England who were celebrating though as Davey Boy managed to gain a good victory over the “Anvil”.
Interview: Bad News Brown
Gene Okerlund once again moved into the interview area nervously, as his guest was the dangerous loner from Harlem, Bad News Brown! Bad News seemed to genuinely intimidate the veteran interviewer as he detailed how he had no friends, and he wasn’t in the WWF to make friends, he was here to make a name for himself and whoever got in his way would regret it, as Ken Patera found out tonight!!!
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
“Hacksaw” Jim Duggan defeated One Man Gang via pinfall (2:17)
A surprisingly one sided match was over almost before it began, much to the embarrassment of the Gang, and he left the ring, head hanging in shame, without his manager Slick, looking very downbeat. Duggan meanwhile, happily advanced to the next round of the tournament.
Main Event
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat, Brutus “Barber” Beefcake and Don “Rock” Muraco fought to a time limit draw with Honky Tonk Man, Greg “Hammer” Valentine and Dino Bravo (20:00).
The main event was set up as a result of a brawl on last week’s Monday Night Raw. Throughout the match, InterContinental Champion Honky Tonk Man failed to enter the action as he seemed determined to avoid 3 of the main contenders to his title, leaving the work to Bravo and mainly Greg Valentine. Momentum switched back and forth numerous times and just when it seemed as though the “Dragon” might get a 1-2-3 the bell rang, leaving everyone disappointed with a time limit draw finish. Due to the time constraints of tv, pleas for an extension of 5 minutes by Steamboat and his colleagues fell on deaf ears, much to the delight of Honky, Bravo and Valentine as they rushed to the backstage area.
NOTES:
What a huge night in the WWF, with the announcement of a new pay per view, and the qualifying matches getting underway the very same night!!!
Bad News Brown, “Outlaw” Ron Bass and “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan were the first 3 men through to the 2nd round of the tournament, but the main talking point of the night was the devastation wrought by Andre the Giant that left Hillbilly Jim in hospital and facing a lengthy lay-off from the ring!
Next week, more qualifying matches as well as an interview with WWF Champion Macho Man Randy Savage!!!
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WWF
Mar 11, 2012 5:08:26 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 11, 2012 5:08:26 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 25/4/1988
Interview: “King” Harley Race (with Bobby Heenan)
Monday Night Raw started with a clearly disgruntled Harley Race (with his manager Bobby Heenan) being interviewed by Mean Gene Okerlund. Race said he was furious about this “tournament” to find the King of the Ring when everyone in the WWF already knew that he was the one and only King! He said is Vince McMahon and the whole of the WWF wanted to go through this nonsense, then he had no choice but to win the tournament and prove what everyone already knew – that he was indeed the King!!
“King” Harley Race defeated Koko B.Ware via pinfall (14:30)
Race followed his interview with the opening match of the night against the “Birdman” Koko B.Ware. Koko was looking to bounce back from a long losing streak and he started well, with plenty of aerial moves to leave Race stunned. The wily veteran soon recovered however and methodically he began to take control of the match until finally (with the help of some leverage from the ropes) Race gained the victory.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
“Natural” Butch Reed defeated Jacques Rougeau via pinfall (12:00)
The first tournament match of the night saw Butch Reed (accompanied by a clearly distracted Slick) defeat one half of the Rougeau brothers, Jacques. Reed’s main problem seemed to be getting his own manager to focus on the match rather than continually looking out into the audience, as if he was searching for someone.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Hercules defeated Raymond Rougeau via submission (10:46)
The other half of the Rougeaus, Raymond, was up next as he hoped to go one better than his brother and progress in the tournament. It wasn’t to be however as despite a fine effort, he came up short against the mighty Hercules, who gained the victory when he managed to get Raymond into his backbreaker submission finisher.
Interview: Macho Man Randy Savage (with Elizabeth)
A fired up WWF Champion talked about his upcoming title defence against the Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase at the King of the Ring, telling the world that this time he was going to make DiBiase regret all of his cheap and dirty tactics once and for all. He said money was not the answer to everything and he had won the World Title because he had earned it the hard way, in the ring!!!!
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Jake “Snake” Roberts defeated Haku via countout (11:59)
A fine match ended when Roberts hit his patented DDT finisher outside the ring area, leaving the Islander unable to beat the 10 count, helping Jake to progress to the 2nd round of the tournament. There was no time to celebrate though, as from out of nowhere, Bad News Brown appeared, attacking Roberts before hitting the Ghetto Blaster on the “Snake” leaving him lying in the ring!
Strike Force defeated The Bolsheviks via DQ (8:26)
Tito Santana and Rick Martel seemed to have a spring in the step following the announcement of their title match at the KotR pay per view. They certainly dominated the much bigger and much stronger Russians who never really had a chance to get into the match. Such was their desperation, the Russians (and their manager Slick) resorted to underhand tactics and it was the attempted use of the cane that saw The Bolsheviks disqualified.
Interview: Slick
For the final time tonight Mean Gene Okerlund was in the interview area, this time talking to a very worried looking Doctor of Style, Slick. Slick explained that he was very worried as he had not seen the One Man Gang since his embarrassing loss on last week’s MNR. Slick seemed genuinely worried for his charge and explained he would search the whole world if he had to, to find the Gang. With that, he rushed from the interview area, leaving a very bemused Okerlund looking on.
Main Event
Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase defeated The Ultimate Warrior via DQ (11:24)
The first surprise of the match was the appearance of Andre the Giant at ringside, in the corner of the Million Dollar Man once again. The reasons for this were clear from the start as he continually tried to interfere in the match distracting the Warrior. Suddenly, the crowd erupted as WWF Champion Macho Man Randy Savage took it upon himself to head to the ringside area in an attempt to even the score. The end was somewhat controversial as the referee continued to miss Andre’s interference until the Macho Man had had enough and he attacked DiBiase and the Giant. The referee (having been distracted by Virgil) saw this and immediately disqualified the Warrior. Although disappointed at the loss, the Warrior joined forces with Savage to drive DiBiase, Andre and Virgil from the ring!!!!!
NOTES:
The main event saw a disappointing finish but there was no shortage of action and controversy both before, during and after the match! Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase clearly felt he needed some insurance against the powerful Ultimate Warrior so he enlisted the help of his former cohort Andre the Giant to watch his back. The appearance of Macho Man Randy Savage evened the odds, but also cost the Warrior as Savage’s infamous temper got the better of him, leading to the DQ finish. The rivalry between Savage and DiBiase shows no sign of losing momentum in the build up to their title match at King of the Ring. What happens next between Ultimate Warrior and Andre the Giant? We shall find out in a few weeks when they meet in the first round of the King of the Ring tournament!!
Although he wasn’t scheduled to appear tonight, Bad News Brown certainly made an impact, attacking Jake Roberts after the “Snake” successfully progressed to the 2nd round of the tourney with a fine victory over Islander Haku. No one is quite sure why Bad News got involved, but the man from Harlem doesn’t usually need a reason to get involved in a fight and he has certainly raised the ire of the man from Stone Mountain, Georgia.
The whereabouts of the One Man Gang remain unknown, even to his manager Slick.
Next week, 3 more 1st round tournament matches as well as a rematch between The Killer Bees and The Islanders, together with 2 more as yet unnamed matches.
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WWF
Mar 11, 2012 5:13:43 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 11, 2012 5:13:43 GMT -5
Rankings
WWF Top Ten – end of April 1988
Champion – Macho Man Randy Savage
1. Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase 2. Honky Tonk Man (InterContinental Champion) 3. Hulk Hogan 4. “Ravishing” Rick Rude 5. Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat 6. Bad News Brown 7. “King” Harley Race 8. Brutus “Barber” Beefcake 9. Andre the Giant 10. Junkyard Dog
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WWF
Mar 13, 2012 7:15:26 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 13, 2012 7:15:26 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 2/5/1988
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Junkyard Dog defeated Boris Zhukov via DQ (5:04)
In truth, this was a poor match which JYD dominated against one half of The Bolsheviks, Boris Zhukov. In the end, Zhukov and his manager Slick had to resort to the use of Slick’s cane to try and turn the match around. Unfortunately for them, the referee saw this and disqualified the Russian, allowing the Dog to progress.
Interview: The Hart Foundation (without Jimmy Hart)
As Mean Gene Okerlund introduced his first guests of the night, The Hart Foundation it become clear, something was not quite right. Bret Hart and Jim Niedhart arrived at the interview area without their manager Jimmy Hart and they were clearly not happy. The Hitman answered most of the questions, telling Okerlund that they had heard the rumours too, about the Mouth of the South looking for another tag team, and that he had been scouting matches from ringside, using his managers licence to full effect. They agreed they were not comfortable with the situation but they were also fully focussed on progressing in the King of the Ring tournament as well as settling their issues with The British Bulldogs once and for all. As for Jimmy Hart, they would be speaking to him very soon about the situation!!!
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Dynamite Kid defeated Nikolai Volkoff via countout (9:16)
The other half of The Bolsheviks, Nikolai Volkoff was hoping for better luck as he faced off against one half of The British Bulldogs, the Dynamite Kid. In a clear collision of wrestling styles Dynamite used his superior speed and technical wrestling ability to good effect in the early stages, keeping Volkoff at arms length. Volkoff mounted a comeback and the match eventually went outside where Dynamite managed to hit his patented snap suplex, before rolling back into the ring, to beat the referee’s count and progress at the expense of The Bolshevik.
The Killer Bees defeated The Islanders via DQ (14:03)
In a surprising turn of events, Jimmy Hart accompanied Bobby Heenan to the ring with The Islanders. Neither team were able to gain the upper hand long enough to dominate in a very entertaining match, warmly received by the fans in the arena. The finish eventually came out of nowhere, when for no reason, Tama refused to break a choke hold he had on Jumpin Jim Brunzell. The referee had no choice but to disqualify The Islanders, much to the annoyance of manager Bobby Heenan, who was not happy with Tama!
Interview: Jimmy Hart (with Honky Tonk Man and Greg Valentine)
Mean Gene Okerlund introduced Jimmy Hart, together with InterContinental Champion Honky Tonk Man and Greg “Hammer” Valentine, all men with big smiles on their faces. Okerlund explained how Hart had requested this interview time but before that, he had to ask about the situation with The Hart Foundation and the rumours about Hart looking for a new tag team? Hart tried to side step the issue by saying everything was fine with him and The Hart Foundation and it was no one else’s business. As Okerlund tried to ask again, Hart explained he was always on the lookout for new talent to join his stable and with that in mind, he had an announcement to make. With that, he introduced the newest member of his stable, Dino Bravo!!!!!! As Hart, Honky and Valentine looked on smiling, Bravo made his way to the stage, also smiling. Hart explained that Bravo’s former manager, Frenchy Martin, had had some problems with his visa, under the new anti-stereotyping laws, meaning he was unable to fulfil his duties as Bravo’s manager, a situation Hart was happy to take advantage. Okerlund quickly pointed out that this meant Hart now had 2 men in the King of the Ring tournament. As Hart and his stable looked on in confusion, Okerlund explained his thinking. This now meant Hart had two men who would potentially be challenging the Honky Tonk Man for his InterContinental Title! Valentine and Bravo did not seem bothered by this but the same could not be said for Honky Tonk Man and Jimmy Hart was trying to act as peacemaker as he ushered his men away from the interview area.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat defeated Jim “Anvil” Niedhart via pinfall (16:13)
The former InterContinental champion was wrestling like a man possessed in this qualifying match up against the “Anvil”, much to the delight of his many fans. Only sheer will and determination enabled Niedhart to extend the match as long as he did but the inevitable happened when Steamboat connected with a flying cross body press to get the 1-2-3 victory and progress to the 2nd round of the tourney.
“Ravishing” Rick Rude defeated Ken Patera via pinfall (11:52)
Fresh from his attack on the Hulkster on Monday Night Raw 3 weeks ago, Rick Rude was still in an aggressive mood as he took on the former InterContinental champion, Ken Patera tonight. Patera was clearly overmatched as Rude showed no mercy, punishing the former Olympian over and over again until he had finished toying with him and hit his “Rude Awakening” finisher for an easy win.
Interview: Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat
A smiling Mean Gene Okerlund welcomed “The Dragon” to the stage. Steamboat expressed his determination to regain the InterContinental title, and if he needed to win a 32 man tournament to become King of the Ring to get his title shot, then so be it, that’s what he would do, starting tonight against Jim Niedhart. When Okerlund asked about the WWF title and that a man he had beaten at WMIII now held the title, Macho Man Randy Savage, Steamboat smiled and said he was concentrating on getting his I-C Title back and nothing else.
Main Event
Hulk Hogan defeated “Outlaw” Ron Bass via DQ (17:34)
The main event of tonight’s Monday Night Raw saw the fully recovered former WWF Champion take on the “Outlaw” Ron Bass. Hogan started on fire but he was soon cut down thanks to the illegal use of his spurs by Bass. Slowly, methodically Bass continued his assault on the Hulkster, but never able to gain enough of an advantage to keep Hogan’s shoulders down on the mat for the victory. Just when all hoped seemed to be gone, Hulk summoned the energy, courage and desire to win from inside himself and was able to mount a comeback. Just when he was about to hit his patented legdrop finisher, Rick Rude rushed to the ring and attacked Hogan again, causing the DQ finish. Rude continued his assault for several minutes, until a number of referees and officials ushered Rude and his manager Bobby Heenan away from the ringside area. Again Monday Night Raw ended with the sight of former WWF Champion Hulk Hogan having to be helped to the back.
NOTES:
Rick Rude clearly sees Hulk Hogan as a stepping stone towards the WWF World Title. Another episode of Monday Night Raw and another crushing attack leaving Hogan unable to walk from the ring. How will Hulk respond, and what will WWF President Vince McMahon do to control Rude and Heenan, who is clearly behind the strategy?
Dissention seems rife within Jimmy Hart’s stable. The Mouth of the South has some work to do to keep all of his men happy, and it looks like he is thinking of expanding his stable even further, with Dino Bravo not the last WWF superstar in his sights!
Bobby Heenan was not happy with Tama, after the Islander cost his team the match against The Killer Bees tonight. Heenan seems to be running out of patience with his tag team’s lack of progress and it is clear he thinks Tama is to blame.
Finally, there is still no news on the whereabouts of the One Man Gang………..
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WWF
Mar 14, 2012 6:56:11 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 14, 2012 6:56:11 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 9/5/1988
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Don Muraco defeated Tama via pinfall (6:57)
Despite the presence of Haku and Bobby Heenan at ringside, “The Rock” dominated this match from start to finish. Tama again displeased his manager as he wasn’t able to sustain any offence in the match, given Muraco a surprisingly easy victory and passage through to the 2nd round of the tourney.
Interview: “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan
The first interview of the night was as usual conducted by Mean Gene Okerlund with “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan as his guest. Answering the question that Honky Tonk Man had requested a match against Duggan as he needed some practice, Duggan immediately shot back that Honky was going to pay for his arrogance! Asked about the fact that tonight’s match was a non-title match, “Hacksaw” said that was fine with him, because he was going to win the King of the Ring tournament and then beat Honky for the title! The fans went absolutely crazy as Duggan saluted them before leaving the stage.
The Rougeaus defeated The Bolsheviks via pinfall (14:39)
A strange match saw The Rougeaus using some questionable tactics to gain the advantage during the course of the match, to the surprise of the fans, who felt unable to continue cheering for Jacques and Raymond as the match progressed. The end came when Jacques snatched the cane from Slick and used it on Nikolai Volkoff, all behind the referee’s back, to get the pinfall victory for his team.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Dino Bravo defeated Koko B.Ware via pinfall (14:30)
Accompanied by his new manager, Dino Bravo looked confident as he prepared for his first match against the “Birdman”. It turned out Bravo had every reason to be confident as, despite being occasionally bothered by some high flying moves from Koko, he was able to secure a solid victory with his patented side slam.
Special Report:
In a new feature, Mean Gene Okerlund reported from the WWF Television Centre. Okerlund discussed the upcoming King of the Ring pay per view, the title matches already signed as well as the ongoing King of the Ring tournament, using the tournament brackets to illustrate potential future match ups, as the second round line up is beginning to take shape.
Handicap Match
Andre the Giant defeated The Young Stallions via pinfall (1:57)
Much to the amusement of Andre and his manager, Bobby “Brain” Heenan, the Young Stallions (Jim Powers and Paul Roma) were both embarrassed and angry at practically being reduced to the role of jobbers in this rare handicap match. Unfortunately for them, they couldn’t channel those feelings into anything useful as Andre destroyed them in less than 2 minutes! Even the fans were amused at the end, increasing the annoyance of Powers and Roma!
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Bret “Hitman” Hart defeated “Jumpin” Jim Brunzell via submission (7:04)
A fine, technical match saw Hart use none of the devious tactics he and his partner have become well known for. Instead, it was a good, clean match which ended when Hart managed to make Brunzell submit after just over seven minutes!
Interview: The Rougeaus
Mean Gene Okerlund started the interview by questioning The Rougeaus on their tactics earlier in the night in their match against The Bolsheviks. Jacques smiled, explaining that in the heat of the moment, they had got carried away in their desire to get a win to please their many fans. Both Okerlund and the fans seemed a little unsure about this, but Jacques continued, dismissing rumours that had been circulating about The Rougeaus taking on Jimmy Hart as their manager, saying they were just determined to rise to the top of the WWF rankings and get a title shot at Demolition. With that, the brothers left the interview area, smiling, leaving a bemused Mean Gene in their wake.
Main Event
Non-Title Match
“Hacksaw” Jim Duggan defeated Honky Tonk Man via DQ (13:47)
Honky Tonk Man was well prepared for this match as not only Jimmy Hart, but Dino Bravo and Greg Valentine accompanied him to ringside. Duggan dominated in the early stages, clearing the ring on more than one occasion but gradually he was worn down, both by his opponent and the constant interference from outside the ring. Stoked up by the fans, “Hacksaw” made a strong comeback and was about to gain a big pinfall victory over the InterContinental champion when Bravo and Valentine once again leapt into the ring, this time leaving the referee with no choice but to call for the bell and award a DQ win to Duggan.
NOTES:
Andre the Giant continued his destructive path back to the top of the WWF with both Young Stallions his latest victims this time. Jim Powers and Paul Roma were clearly not happy at the booking of this match, feeling it made them a laughing stock across the WWF. Whether or not this was the intention of WWF President Vince McMahon is not clear at this stage.
There were impressive wins for Don Muraco, Dino Bravo and Bret Hart as they progressed to the 2nd round of the King of the Ring tournament.
The Rougeaus showed a mean streak tonight, not seen before by the WWF fans. It could be a momentary lapse, as they suggested in their interview, or it could be something more sinister, only time will tell….
Next week sees both Hulk Hogan and “Ravishing” Rick Rude in action, as they both face tough 1st Round tournament matches against “King” Harley Race and Brutus “Barber” Beefcake respectively. What will happen with both men in the same arena, with so much animosity between them at the moment? Tune in next week to find out!!
Finally, the One Man Gang is still missing, his whereabouts unknown……..
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WWF
Mar 14, 2012 10:59:48 GMT -5
Post by mdale2k on Mar 14, 2012 10:59:48 GMT -5
I must say I am intrigued by the where in the world is One Man Gang Saga...
KOTR is shaping up nicely.
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WWF
Mar 20, 2012 16:07:14 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Mar 20, 2012 16:07:14 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 16/5/1988
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat won a 30 man Battle Royal (21:52)
Monday Night Raw opened for the first time with a Battle Royal. The biggest surprise was the late entry of WWF Champion Macho Man Randy Savage. Things quickly went south for Savage though, as his nemesis Ted DiBiase managed to eliminate the champ over the top rope, with the help of Andre the Giant. DiBiase was in confident mood as he was one of the last 3 men in the ring, with the mighty Hercules and Ricky Steamboat. Hercules and DiBiase teamed up against Steamboat until he was able to draw on some inner reserves to not only eliminate Hercules, but also the Million Dollar Man.
Special Report: Mean Gene Okerlund introduced a special report from WWF TV Centre, giving a full report on the King of the Ring pay per view, including an update on the brackets for the King of the Ring tournament.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Greg “Hammer” Valentine defeated Davey Boy Smith via pinfall (13:45)
A fine match between two former combatants in the tag team division ended when Valentine and his manager, Jimmy Hart conspired to use both the megaphone and the ropes to gain the 1-2-3, much to Davey Boy’s annoyance. The referee didn’t see anything though so it is the “Hammer” who progresses in the tournament.
Interview: Hulk Hogan
The Hulkster was in a fiery mood as he was being interviewed by Mean Gene Okerlund. Hulk talked about how sick he was of sneak attacks and in particular Rick Rude and his manager Bobby Heenan. Hulk said he was tired of being a victim and from tonight things would be much different. With that, Hogan left the stage.
Tito Santana defeated Smash via pinfall (14:11)
In a prelude to their match (with their tag team partners) at King of the Ring Strike Force’s Tito Santana took on Smash from Demolition. Despite both men being unused to singles action lately, they both put on a fine technical encounter, until Santana experience in singles wrestling told, and he was able to gain the victory and the momentum heading towards the big WWF World Tag Team Titles match.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Brutus “Barber” Beefcake defeated “Ravishing” Rick Rude via countout (7:01)
A fine match between two top superstars quickly descended into chaos as Hulk Hogan appeared at ringside, clearly distracting Rude. Eventually, Rude was hauled outside the ring by the Hulkster and as they battled each other, Beefcake, the referee and the crowd all counted to 10, giving Beefcake a relatively simple victory and progression in the tournament.
Interview: Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase (with Virgil)
A smiling Million Dollar Man was bragging extensively as he talked about what he would do to the Macho Man at the King of the Ring. Not only was he going to win the title but he would make Savage suffer like he has never suffered before! DiBiase and his valet Virgil, looked very happy and confident as they left the stage.
Main Event
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
“King” Harley Race defeated Hulk Hogan via pinfall (14:50)
The main event of the night saw the Hulkster in action inside the ring as he took on another of the Heenan Family stable, “King” Harley Race. The match between the 2 former World Champions went back and forth until the time limit was almost up. However, Rick Rude suddenly ran to the ringside and hit Hulk over the head with a chair, all while the referee was being distracted by Race and Heenan. It was then a simple task for Race to cover Hogan and get not only the 1-2-3 but also a spot in the 2nd round of the King of the Ring tournament.
NOTES:
Another stormy night in the WWF and the animosity grows between Hulk Hogan and “Ravishing” Rick Rude. Tonight, they both cost each other an opportunity to be in the finals of the King of the Ring tournament. WWF President has promised to address this situation on next week’s Monday Night Raw. Rude and Hogan’s loss was Brutus Beefcake and Harley Race’s gain however as both men progressed to the 2nd round of the King of the Ring tourney. Greg “Hammer” Valentine also made it through the next round.
The rivalry between Macho Man Randy Savage and Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase continues to grow, with not even 28 other men in a Battle Royal able to distract them from each other tonight.
Next week’s Monday Night Raw sees the last King of the Ring 1st round match as the Ultimate Warrior and Andre the Giant collide in what will no doubt be an epic encounter!
No further update on the whereabouts of One Man Gang………………………..
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WWF
Apr 2, 2012 14:52:26 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Apr 2, 2012 14:52:26 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 23/5/1988
Ax defeated Rick Martel via pinfall (11:24)
A fine match between two men usually found in tag team action, ended when Ax and the devious Mr Fuji, combined to great effect, a blow from Mr Fuji’s cane managing to make Martel easy prey for a simple 1-2-3.
Special Report: From the WWF Television Centre, Mean Gene Okerlund gave a rundown on the King of the Ring pay per view that is just a few short weeks away.
The Rougeaus defeated The Islanders via pinfall (2:47)
Once again Jacques and Raymond showed an unusual mean streak in this match, as they used some very cheap shots and dirty tactics, to the surprise of everyone, including their opponents, giving the French Canadians an easy victory over Heenan’s men.
British Bulldogs defeated The Hart Foundation via countout (18:32)
This match signalled the end of a feud, almost two years in the making. A fantastic technical encounter, which saw the Harts being cheered as well, for the first time in the WWF ended when The Rougeaus decided to put in an appearance, much to the annoyance of Hart and Niedhart in particular, although their manager, Jimmy Hart, did not seem too bothered. The match continued to go back and forth until, under instructions from the Mouth of the South, The Rougeaus attacked the Hart Foundation, leading to a 4 man brawl outside the ring. As the referee’s count reached 10, The British Bulldogs gained the victory. However, The Rougeaus and Jimmy Hart had the biggest smiles as they left The Hart Foundation lying at ringside. Dynamite and Davey Boy helped the Hitman and the Anvil to their feet, and all 4 men left the ring area to the cheers of the fans. British Bulldogs will no doubt be looking to challenge the winners of the Tag Team title match at King of the Ring, while the Harts will surely be looking for revenge over The Rougeaus and also their manager who has clearly betrayed them!!!
Interview: Vince McMahon
WWF President Vince McMahon was Mean Gene’s first guest tonight and he got down to business straight away. McMahon said he had been aware of the growing animosity between Hulk Hogan and “Ravishing” Rick Rude, which exploded last week and with that in mind, he has made the match that everyone wants – Hulk Hogan v Rick Rude at the King of the Ring pay per view!!!! As the crowd went crazy McMahon shook Mean Gene’s hand and left the interview area.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Jake “Snake” Roberts defeated “Outlaw” Ron Bass via pinfall (3:24)
A tough brawl dictated this King of the Ring 2nd round match up. It was Jake Roberts who prevailed however, as he managed to land his patented DDT finisher from out of nowhere to gain the victory and become the 1st man into the Quarter Finals and the pay per view itself.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Bad News Brown defeated Don Muraco via pinfall (11:05)
The next 2nd round match followed very quickly and again this was a brutal match between two very tough WWF superstars. Former I-C champ Muraco has put in some fine performances of late, without getting the wins he has deserved and once again he came up short in this match as it was Bad News (and his ghetto blaster finisher) that gained a fine victory for the loner from Harlem.
Interview: The Ultimate Warrior
Mean Gene Okerlund’s final assignment of the night was to interview the unpredictable, but ever popular Ultimate Warrior. The Warrior was focussed on his match against Andre the Giant tonight and said that he was just another victim on the Warrior’s path towards ultimate glory in the WWF!!!!!
Main Event
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Ultimate Warrior and Andre the Giant fought to a double countout (12:47)
The main event of the night was also the final 1st round match in the King of the Ring tournament. Andre tried to use his superior bulk to his advantage but did not anticipate the incredible strength of The Ultimate Warrior, still a relative newcomer in the WWF. Both men tended to ignore the referee, such was the hostility in the match and when Warrior managed to send Andre to the outside with a big clothesline, the brawl continued on the floor, as the referee began his count. They both realised too late that they needed to get back in to the ring and eventually both men were counted out of both the match and the King of the Ring tournament.
NOTES:
Happiest man of the night wasn’t even competing. Greg “Hammer” Valentine has secured a coveted spot in the Quarter Finals of the King of the Ring tournament, thanks to the double countout finish between The Ultimate Warrior and Andre the Giant. Nothing has been settled between these two men and they were both swearing vengeance as Monday Night Raw went off the air.
Meanwhile, both Jake Roberts and Bad News Brown will accompany Valentine at the pay per view, thanks to fine victories tonight.
So, the truth has finally come out regarding The Rougeaus, or The Fabulous Rougeaus as they would now like to be called. Jimmy Hart also showed his true colours, casually betraying The Hart Foundation, who he has managed for several years, in favour of Jacques and Raymond Rougeau. You can bet Bret Hart and Jim Niedhart, already being cheered by the WWF fans, will not take this situation lying down and Hart and the Rougeaus had better watch their backs!!!
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WWF
Apr 6, 2012 14:31:17 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Apr 6, 2012 14:31:17 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 30/5/1988
The Killer Bees defeated The Bolsheviks via DQ (13:15)
A tag team encounter of contrasting styles saw the high flying Killer Bees take on the grounded, brawling Bolsheviks. The match went back and forth with The Bolsheviks manager, Slick doing whatever he could to assist his men. Ultimately though it was interference from outside that cost The Bolsheviks. As Jim Brunzell went for another move from the ropes, Slick pulled down the rope in full view of the referee, costing his men a DQ loss. Special Report: Once again, Mean Gene Okerlund gave a special report on the latest news regarding the King of the Ring pay per view, including the latest on the brackets for the tournament, now the 1st round had been completed, as well as the newly signed match between Hulk Hogan and Rick Rude.
Greg “Hammer” Valentine defeated Ken Patera via pinfall (14:37)
The 2nd match of the night was contested between 2 former Inter Continental champions. Unfortunately for Patera, his losing streak shows no sign of ending as once again he was outclassed by Valentine, still smiling from his relatively easy passage through to the King of the Ring pay per view tourney.
Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase defeated Koko B.Ware via submission (9:06)
The Million Dollar Man was in a ruthless mood tonight, clearly sending a message to the Macho Man as he decimated the Birdman during the course of this match. Try as he might, Koko could not mount any offense and it was only a matter of time before the demonstration was over and DiBiase gained the victory, before he moved over to the interview area.
Interview: Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase (with Virgil)
For the 2nd time in 3 weeks the Million Dollar Man made his way to the interview area, with Virgil one step behind him, to be greeted by Mean Gene Okerlund. DiBiase talked about how the Macho Man’s days were numbered as the WWF Champion. Nothing could stop DiBiase from becoming the next WWF Champion and after King of the Ring, that is exactly what he would never lose the title, not to the Macho Man and not to anybody else!!!
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat defeated Dino Bravo via pinfall (11:48)
The first tournament match of the night saw the high flying Steamboat battle the Canadian strongman, Dino Bravo. Despite being on the receiving end of a lot of punishment during the match, Steamboat managed to rally well enough to secure a fine victory, and progression to the pay per view.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
“Natural” Butch Reed defeated Dynamite Kid via pinfall (8:57)
Another close match was decided when Butch Reed’s manager, Slick interfered on behalf of his wrestler, distracting Dynamite Kid, and enabling his man to win the match and make his way to the quarter finals of the King of the Ring tournament.
Interview: Strike Force
Mean Gene Okerlund welcomed Tito Santana and Rick Martel for an interview. Santana started by saying that they were ready for Demolition and this time no dirty tricks by Ax, Smash or even Mr Fuji would stop them. Martel continued that Strike Force were in the best condition of their careers and this time there would be no mistakes and they would regain the WWF World Tag Team Titles!!!
Main Event
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
“Hacksaw” Jim Duggan defeated Bret “Hitman” Hart via pinfall (11:53)
A strange atmosphere greeted this match as the fans did not know which man to cheer on, as The Hart Foundation had recently turned into fan favourites and were becoming increasingly popular. Unfortunately for Hart, once again their foes The Fabulous Rougeaus interefered in the match causing Hart to lose to the ever popular Jim Duggan, although Hacksaw was not happy to gain a victory in such circumstances.
NOTES:
3 more men have made it through to the King of the Ring tournament quarter finals and the pay per view event, which is now less than 2 weeks away. Next week will see the final 2 qualifying matches on the last Monday Night Raw before the big pay per view.
The rankings for the end of May show little change from last month with only Andre the Giant and Brutus Beefcake swapping places and Greg Valentine moving into the Top 10 for the first time.
Rankings
WWF Top Ten – end of May 1988
Champion – Macho Man Randy Savage
1(1) Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase 2(2) Honky Tonk Man (InterContinental Champion) 3(3) Hulk Hogan 4(4) “Ravishing” Rick Rude 5(5) Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat 6(6) Bad News Brown 7(7) “King” Harley Race 8(9) Andre the Giant 9(8) Brutus “Barber” Beefcake 10(-) Greg “Hammer” Valentine
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WWF
Apr 7, 2012 14:18:10 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Apr 7, 2012 14:18:10 GMT -5
MONDAY NIGHT RAW – 6/6/1988
The Fabulous Rougeaus defeated Young Stallions via pinfall (7:53)
The final Monday Night Raw before the King of the Ring pay per view started with a tag team encounter between The Fabulous Rougeaus (accompanied by their new manager Jimmy Hart) and the Young Stallions. Try as they might Roma and Powers could not break their recent slump and it was the Fabulous Rougeaus, and their new attitude, that came out on top of this match. Special Report: On the final Monday Night Raw before the big pay per view event, Mean Gene Okerlund gave a full rundown on the card for the King of the Ring. With just two spots to be filled in the tourney, the full card was almost set.
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat defeated “Outlaw” Ron Bass via DQ (3:46)
Once again Ricky Steamboat was in action on Monday Night Raw as he took on the despicable “Outlaw” Ron Bass. Steamboat has been in top form of late and he dominated this short match to such an extent that Bass was forced to use his spurs to try and even the contest. However, in plain sight of the referee this cost Bass the match via a disqualification and Steamboat continued to build momentum towards the pay per view.
Ultimate Warrior defeated Tama via countout (9:34)
An unusual piece of booking saw the Ultimate Warrior take on one of the Islanders, Tama. Rumour had it that Bobby Heenan had signed the match as some kind of punishment for Tama, for his poor performances of late, costing The Islanders some big matches. Certainly, it was the Warrior who dominated this match crushing Tama with some brutal offence throughout the match. In the end Tama decided retreat was the best form of defence and much to annoyance of Bobby Heenan again, Tama ran from ringside as the Warrior looked on. Suddenly from behind, Warrior was attacked by Haku and Andre the Giant, who beat down the Ultimate Warrior in a nasty 2 on 1 attack that left Warrior down in the ring, as Heenan, Haku and Andre walked away laughing!
Interview: Demolition (with Mr Fuji)
Mean Gene Okerlund welcomed the WWF World Tag Team Champions to the interview area. A very confident Ax and Smash talked about being the champions, and how they were determined to stay as champions for a very long time. Once Strike Force were dealt with they would turn back the challenge of anyone, and become the most dominant team in WWF history!!!!!!
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Brutus “Barber” Beefcake defeated Hercules via DQ (13:57)
The penultimate qualifying match was between two veteran superstars as Brutus Beefcake took on the mighty Hercules. Bobby Heenan was back at ringside and he tried to influence the match on behalf of his man, but in the end Heenan’s interference cost Hercules the match as he pulled the ropes down, sending Beefcake to the outside. Unfortunately for Hercules, it was in full view of the referee who called for the bell and awarded the win to Beefcake.
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
“King” Harley Race defeated Junkyard Dog via pinfall (10:42)
The final qualifying match was a rematch from Wrestlemania III as Harley Race took on JYD. The pace of the match was very slow and this suited Race as he slowly asserted his authority over the Dog during the course of the match. Both men were determined to be in the pay per view but it was over enthusiasm from JYD that cost him his place as he made a vital slip which enabled Race to gain the pinfall victory, thanks to two feet on the rope for some additional leverage.
Interview: Macho Man Randy Savage (with Elizabeth)
With the King of the Ring pay per view less than a week away, Mean Gene Okerlund welcomed the WWF Champion, together with the lovely Elizabeth for his final interview before the big event. Savage was in determined mood as he talked about seeing off the Million Dollar Man once and for all. Savage also said that if Virgil got involved he would regret it as well!!!! Macho Man talked about a new era in the WWF and as WWF Champion, he was going to take the WWF forward to new heights. Oh Yeah!!!!!!!
Main Event
“Ravishing” Rick Rude defeated Don Muraco via pinfall (17:54)
The main event saw a brutal match between two very powerful wrestlers as the “Ravishing One” took on “The Rock” in a fine match. Muraco has been very unfortunate of late as he has wrestled very well but not got the results he has deserved. Rude has been almost unstoppable of late and once again he proved himself to be a top superstar as he managed to gain the victory at just short of the 18 minute mark in a fine main event, and the final match before the big pay per view event next Sunday.
NOTES:
So, the quarter final brackets are in place for the King of the Ring tournament:
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat v “Natural” Butch Reed Greg “Hammer” Valentine v Jake “Snake” Roberts Brutus “Barber” Beefcake v Bad News Brown “King” Harley Race v “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan
Together with the two title matches and the grudge match between Hulk Hogan and Rick Rude, it should be a fantastic night of action for the WWF fans to enjoy!!!!
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WWF
Apr 8, 2012 8:34:17 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Apr 8, 2012 8:34:17 GMT -5
KING OF THE RING 1988
King of the Ring Tournament
Quarter Finals
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat defeated “Natural” Butch Reed via DQ (16:11)
The first match of the night was a fine start to the pay per view as the fans were treated to a superb match. Ultimately, it was Steamboat who progressed as Reed’s frustration got the better of him and he deliberately pushed the referee over, causing himself to get disqualified and therefore eliminated from the tournament.
Greg “Hammer” Valentine defeated Jake “Snake” Roberts via pinfall (14:29)
Some fans were stunned at the outcome of this match as Greg Valentine managed to gain a hard fought victory over Jake Roberts, thanks in no small part to putting his feet on the ropes when he went for the pinfall, out of the sight of the referee. Roberts complained bitterly but it was too late as Valentine had already left the ring and headed to the back to prepare for his semi final match.
Brutus “Barber” Beefcake defeated Bad News Brown via countout (14:54)
The man from Harlem dominated the early stages of this match, and it looked like just a matter of time before he gained the victory. However, the resilient Beefcake managed to stage a come back and in the end it was Beefcake who managed to gain the win when Bad News was unable to beat the 10 count following a lengthy exchange of blows outside the ring.
“King” Harley Race defeated “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan via pinfall (1:26)
A stunningly short match was over almost before it began as Harley Race dominated the popular “Hacksaw”. In less than 90 seconds a piledriver condemned Duggan to defeat and allowed Race to progress to the semi finals.
WWF World Tag Team Titles Match
Demolition defeated Strike Force via pinfall (18:03)
(Demolition retained the WWF World Tag Team Titles)
A fine match of contrasting styles, between the high flying Strike Force and the more grounded, brawling style of Demolition kept the fans on the edge of their seat throughout. At one stage Demolition had Rick Martel in their corner for almost 5 minutes of continual punishment, tagging frequently to continue the punishment. Slowly, Strike Force began to force their way into the match and they looked to be gaining the upper hand when the devious one, Mr Fuji got involved in the match. As he distracted the referee, Fuji threw his cane to Smash, who then used it on Martel, enabling him to gain a simple pinfall decision and allowing Demolition to retain their titles.
King of the Ring Tournament
Semi Finals
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat defeated Greg “Hammer” Valentine via pinfall (10:14)
The first semi final was a rematch from the WWF tournament match at Wrestlemania IV. On this occasion though, it was Steamboat who managed to gain the pinfall victory, and a place in the tournament final when he executed his patented flying cross body press to gain the victory over the “Hammer”.
“King” Harley Race defeated Brutus “Barber” Beefcake via pinfall (11:17)
Harley Race continued to impress as he progressed to the final of the King of the Ring tournament, with Beefcake unable to stop the “King” on this occasion. Both men had their moments in the match but Race has started to look like a multi NWA World Champion again of late, and he showed that again here, gaining a fine pinfall victory.
Hulk Hogan and “Ravishing” Rick Rude battled to a time limit draw (20:00)
After weeks of build up these two men finally got their hands on each other and the hatred they have for each other clearly showed from the beginning. A brutal match, the Hulkster resorted to some devious tactics to try and counter both Rude and his manager, Bobby Heenan, who were prepared to stoop to any level to gain a victory. This physical encounter went all over the arena several times as no ring could contain them. Eventually, the end came out of nowhere as the two men battled, the timekeeper suddenly rang the bell. Much to the annoyance of both men and the fans, the referee refused to allow more time for the match to continue. Referees and WWF officials then had to keep Hogan and Rude apart as they wanted to continue the fight. No doubt they will be meeting again as nothing was settled at the end of this brutal encounter.
King of the Ring Tournament
Final
Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat defeated “King” Harley Race via pinfall (11:50)
The final of the tournament lived up to all expectations as these two combatants put on a wrestling clinic for the WWF fans, with neither man able to gain enough of an advantage to put his opponent away. Finally, it was over confidence on the part of Harley Race that was his undoing as Steamboat managed to roll Race up in a small package to gain the 1-2-3 and victory in this prestigious tournament, the reward for which will be a shot at the InterContental Title.
Main Event
WWF World Heavyweight Title Match
Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase defeated Macho Man Randy Savage via pinfall (11:51)
(Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase won the WWF World Heavyweight Title)
Just two short months after winning the title at Wrestlemania IV, the Macho Man Randy Savage was defeated by the No.1 contender, Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase. A fantastic main event title match between two veteran wrestlers, was also a surprisingly clean encounter, with DiBiase not employing any of the underhand tactics he has become well known for. The end came when DiBiase managed to roll through following a flying axhandle from Savage, and DiBiase got the 1-2-3 to win his first major title in the WWF!!!!
NOTES:
A top class pay per view full of exciting wrestling action (only 1 match lasted less than 10 minutes!), saw a new WWF World Heavyweight Champion crowned as the Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase managed to defeat Macho Man Randy Savage to win the title and gain revenge for his loss at Wrestlemania IV. The biggest surprise of all was that it was also a clean victory for DiBiase, so beginning his reign as champion.
Earlier in the night Demolition once again managed to hold off the challenge of Strike Force, but once again it was thanks to the use of Mr Fuji’s cane! The complaints of Strike Force fell on deaf ears as the referee allowed the result to stand and Demolition retained their titles. Tito Santana and Rick Martel will surely be after another opportunity but they may have to wait their turn now as the British Bulldogs appear to be next in line for an opportunity.
The King of the Ring tournament was won by Ricky “Dragon” Steamboat, giving the former InterContinental champion a guaranteed title shot against the man who defeated him for the title a year ago, the Honky Tonk Man. That match will be taking place very soon, exactly when will be decided by WWF President Vince McMahon. Steamboat can be rightly proud of himself after coming through 3 very tough matches to win the tournament.
Talking of the McMahon, he is going to have quite a few decisions to make in the near future. Not only deciding who is in line to challenge for the WWF World and WWF Tag Team titles, but also what to do with the situation between Hulk Hogan and Rick Rude. Much to the disappointment of all concerned, nothing was settled tonight as the match ended in a time limit draw. No doubt these two will face each other again in the very near future.
The next pay per view event will be Wrestlefest 88, which takes place at the end of July.
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WWF
Apr 8, 2012 8:37:53 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Apr 8, 2012 8:37:53 GMT -5
Having got to just about two months of gametime and my first pay per view event, now seems a good time to take stock of the situation in my circuit.
Things I have learned so far:
It's not easy putting on a weekly show with no jobbers (but I will persevere as I think it is the best approach). I need a bigger roster (watch this space!) The King of the Ring tournament was too big (32 wrestlers was a round too many I think, it seemed to drag on a bit too much).
Apart from that I think some storylines are starting to develop nicely, and I am quite pleased with how things are going so far (although a WWF Title change so soon wasn't part of the plan!!).
Hope everyone is enjoying it so far (apologies for the recent delay in posting cards, I was very ill for about 3 weeks).
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WWF
Apr 18, 2012 13:11:52 GMT -5
Post by ianclark on Apr 18, 2012 13:11:52 GMT -5
I hate to do this (especially as I promised I wouldn't) but with work and studying I don't think I am going to have the time to continue this circuit in so much detail (a weekly show with no jobbers has proven very difficult for me to maintain in a limited amount of time).
So, I am calling time on this circuit (with apologies to those who enjoyed reading it), but I will be back with a new circuit (starting in the same time frame), but with a slightly different format and style..........
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