ECW (5/13) Recap: CM Gets Punked!
Our resident philosopher, Jay Shannon, brings us the extreme action and drama from this week’s ECW on Sci-fi
The show opened with a look back at Colin Delaney earning his WWE/ECW Contract. He overcame all the odds to defeat ECW General Manager, Armando Estrada/ Colin was so thrilled to finally get his contract.
Armando Estrada talked with Colin. He told Colin that the odds of beating Armando were astronomical. Armando decided to make Colin an even larger target than before. Colin took the clipboard with the contract but hesitated, for just a moment. When Armando questioned him about whether he would sign or not, Colin flipped the page and scrawled his name on the paper. Armando grinned as he told Colin that his first match as an active member of the ECW roster would be against Mike Knox. Colin had a look of confidence on his face as we went to the ECW opening montage.
The music of C.M. Punk rippled through the arena as Mr. Money-in-the-Bank made his entrance for our first match. Mike Adamle informed us that C.M. Punk and Kane will unite to face the WWE tag champs, Miz and Morrison, on Sunday, at Judgment Day.
Miz strolled out onto the rampway as his entrance theme echoed off the rafters. Miz had his tag partner, John Morrison, at his side. Miz stopped and asked Morrison to go to the back. Miz had a confident look as he held up his title belt.
The Miz d C.M. Punk
The men locked up in a Collar and Elbow. Punk used a Go Behind into a Gut Wrench to take Miz to the canvas. Miz tried to get free by twisting and turning as he got to his feet. Punk refused to let go and slung Miz around with another Gut Wrench. Miz finally made it to the ropes to force the break.
Miz tried for a cheap shot on the break, but Punk blocked and tried for an Irish Whip. Miz reversed it, but Punk came back with a Sunset Flip. Miz kicked out at two, but got caught with a boot to the ribs. Punk Irish Whipped Miz to the corner in preparation for the Elevator Knee. Miz brought up the boot to stop Punk. Punk caught the ankle, but Miz brought up the other foot and kicked Punk in the chest. Miz ran out of the corner and forced Punk, face-first, into the mat. Miz shot a half to roll Punk over and then pounded on the skull of Punk. Miz stomped on Punk and hit several hard Crossfaces. Miz locked in an extended Arm Bar with a Jaw Clutch.
Punk got to his feet and turned into Miz. He hit several hard knees to stun the tag champ. Punk hit several sharp kicks to the legs of Miz. When Punk missed a Roundhouse Kick, Miz Dropkicked the back of Punk. Punk fell into the ropes. Miz ran up the back of Punk, hopped over the ropes and pulled Punk’s neck down across the ropes, on the way down. Nice move. Miz slid back in the ring and tried, several times, to pin Punk. Miz locked in a Rear Chin Lock.
Punk got to his feet and elbowed the ribs of Miz. Miz answered the blows with a sharp crack to the back of Punk’s neck. Miz Irish Whipped Punk to the corner and hit the Full Body Clothesline on Punk. Miz planted his knees in the back of Punk and locked in a Rear Chin Lock that was almost a modified Camel Clutch. Miz hit several brutal Crossfaces. Punk finally got to his feet and sent Miz to the ropes. Miz dropped Punk with a Shoulder Block. Miz came off the ropes with a Fore-arm that struck Punk in the sternum. Miz charged at Punk who nailed a Snap Powerslam. Miz kicked out at two.
Miz clutched at his back. Punk broke out a version of his old Whirling Dervish series of Backfists and kicks. Punk whipped Miz to the corner and nailed the Elevator Knee. Miz shoved out of the Bulldog, but fell victim to a Spinning Leg Lariat. Punk hit a nasty Clothesline on Miz. Punk Irish Whipped Miz to the ropes and hit a sweet Leg Lariat. Punk tried to lock the arms for a Butterfly Suplex, but Miz broke free and tripped Punk. Miz grabbed the legs and floated over for a bridge pin. Punk showed incredible strength to arch up out of the pin. Punk rolled around and tried for a Backslide. Miz rolled through that and booted the ribs of Punk. Miz called for the Reality Check, but Punk dodged the Mr. Wrestling II-like Kneelift. Punk caught Miz in the Fireman’s Carry. Miz got free before going down to the G-T-S and hit the Falling Neckbreaker portion of the Reality Check. Miz snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.
Grade: A-
Morrison came out and hugged his tag team partner. The two men held their titles up in unison to show their dominance. Cherry, Kelly Kelly, and Michelle McCool walked backstage as Adamle told us all that he had Diva Feeva. I just had a 70s flashback to Denny Terrio in a polyester leisure suit. Thank the heavens we got a break so I could get that image out of my head.
We got a John Cena promo. It was a lead-in to the Cena v JBL match at Judgment Day, this Sunday.
The crowd really popped when Kelly Kelly, Michelle McCool, and Cherry made their entrance. Their opponents were Layla, Natalya and Victoria.
Kelly Kelly, Cherry and Michelle McCool d Natalya (Neidhart), Victoria and Layla
Six-Diva Tag Match
Michelle and Natalya opened up this contest. Natalya caught Michelle with a Go Behind. Michelle landed an elbow to the face of Natalya to get free. Natayla lifted Michelle and ran her into the corner. Natayla kicked and Fore-arm Smashed Michelle and then tagged Victoria into the match. Victoria kicked Michelle in the ribs and then used the arm to flip Michelle to the mat. Victoria scissored the arm and twisted to add more pain.
Michelle got to her feet and used the ropes to flip over. She then Arm Dragged Victoria across the ring. Michelle, not Kelly Kelly, threw a Dropkick into Victoria. Michelle dragged Victoria to the corner to tag in Cherry. Cherry slid under the legs of Victoria and went for a roll-up. Victoria kicked out at two. Cherry used Fore-arms and kicks to move Victoria to the ropes. Natayla blind tagged herself into the match. Natayla caught Cherry with a version of her father’s Flying Lariat. Natayla kicked the ribs and nailed a Snap Suplex. Natayla locked in a Shino-Numaki Sleeper. Cherry broke free and flipped Natayla to the canvas.
Natayla held the arms of Cherry in a Standing Surfboard. She called for Victoria to help her. When the ref blocked Victoria, Natayla turned Cherry towards Layla. Layla shouldered the ribs of Cherry. Victoria tagged back in the match. Natayla slammed Cherry and lined her up on the mat for Victoria. Victoria hit a Slingshot Guillotine Leg Drop over the top rope and onto the throat of Cherry. Victoria was shocked when Cherry kicked out at two. Cherry crawled towards her corner, but Victoria kept her blocked. As Natayla yelled “Finish Her!”, Victoria slammed Cherry in the center of the ring.
Victoria shook her backside at Cherry and then went for a Standing Moonsault. Cherry got the knees up. Cherry almost made the tag, but Victoria stopped her. Victoria locked in a Front Face Lock. As they got close to the “good girls” corner, Victoria turned and knocked Kelly off the apron. Michelle ducked a shot from Victoria. Cherry caught Victoria by surprise with a School Girl roll-up. Cherry scored one of the biggest upsets in recent history with that move.
Grade: (a surprising) B+
The heels screamed about the loss as Cherry’s new theme music played. Kelly, Michelle and Cherry raised their arms in victory.
Lena Yada talked with Shelton about losing twice to Kofi Kingston. Shelton talked about Kofi “having a horseshoe stuck where the sun don’t shine”. and the next time they meet he would “pull it out”. Kofi walked up and wished Shelton “Good Luck”. Shelton shoved Kofi. Kofi then rushed Shelton into a loading bay door. Shelton crumpled to the floor. Shelton seethed with anger as we faded out to break.
We got the promo for the Triple H edition of WWE magazine. Mike called his broadcast partner “THE” Tazz. Mike asked Tazz what he thought about the Triple H and Randy Orton situation, on Raw. This lead into a video presentation of the feud between Triple H and Orton. We saw Triple H capture his 12th title. That led William Regal to stipulate that the match between Triple H and Orton, at judgment Day will be fought in a steel cage.
Colin Delaney taped up in preparation for Mike Knox. We took a look at the rise of Colin. He so seriously got trashed by the likes of Big Daddy V, The Great Khali, Mark Henry, The Big Show, JBL and Shelton Benjamin. We then got to see the miracle moment when Colin took down Armando Estrada to win his contract. Colin was set for action, after a break.
Colin Delaney has Theme Music, finally. It sounds like a combination of screaming guitars and screeching birds, but it’s still kind of hip. The crowd was on their feet for Colin. The mood changed as Mike Knox stomped to the ring.
Mike Knox d Colin Delaney
Colin threw a Dropkick into the chest of Mike. Mike missed with an Elbow Drop. Mike caught Colin with a boot to the chest. Mike picked Colin up and nailed a Decapitation Clothesline on the rookie. Mike threw Colin in the corner and hit a Running Splash. Mike set Colin in the corner, backwards, and pounded on the back and neck. Mike brought Colin to the center of the ring and finished this massacre with the Knox U Out.
Grade: C
Armando Estrada came out and told Colin that he has to face the newest member of the ECW Roster, Armando Estrada.
Armando Estrada d Colin Delaney
Armando kicked Colin in the head. Armando said that he used his power as GM to sign himself to a lucrative salary and contract. Armando slapped the nearly unconscious Colin and then lifted him up. Armando lifted Colin up in a Reverse Stall Suplex. Instead of flipping his victim over, Armando dropped Colin straight down. Since that one doesn’t have a name yet, let’s just call it the Cuba-Plex.
Grade: D-
Estrada grinned as he noticed that Colin was bleeding from the nose. We went to the back and saw a crimson-lighted Kane waiting for his match. It was set to occur, after a break.
We got a promo for next week’s show. Kofi and Shelton are going to battle, yet again. One would assume that will be next week’s main event.
Morrison and Miz came out on the ramp. They did a dual slow-mo intro. Miz walked down with his partner, unlike earlier. Morrison posed until the pyros exploded fro Kane. Kane walked with purpose to the ring. Kane got in the ring and set off the ring post explosions.
John Morrison d Kane
Morrison used his speed to duck and weave. Morrison slipped under Kane and opened up with some serious kicks to the legs of the Big Red Champion. Morrison went for Kane’s leg, but Kane just over-powered the tag champ. He threw Morrison in the corner like most people toss a towel in the laundry hamper. Morrison spun himself between the ropes and stood on the apron. When Kane approached, Morrison slid between the legs and looked proud of himself. Pride often comes before a fall, and it did for Morrison. Kane grabbed the hair and threw Morrison to the mat.
Kane Snap Mared Morrison to the mat and threw a Low Dropkick to the face. Morrison kicked out at two. Kane twisted Morrison into what looked like a Neckbreaker. Kane lifted Morrison instead of dropping him. It turned into a Reverse Hangman’s Noose. Kane released Morrison, who hit the mat like a sack of cement. Kane popped Morrison and then choked him on the ropes. Kane whipped Morrison to the ropes and nailed a Back Elbow. Kane locked in the Rear Chinlock.
Morrison fought out and started using kicks to the left knee of Kane. Morrison kicked and hit the knee. Kane kicked the chest of Morrison, several times. Kane sent Morrison to the corner, but Kane got caught with a Back Elbow. Morrison used kicks, knees and punches to weaken the ECW champ. Kane reversed an Irish Whip and sent Morrison into the corner. Morrison responded with a few hard kicks. Morrison started throwing machine gun punches in the corner. When the ref moved Morrison back, Miz grabbed Kane’s leg.
Kane turned to confront Miz. Morrison tried for the Pearl Harbor, but Kane swung around and nailed Morrison right between the eyes. C.M. Punk walked rapidly down the rampway to counter Miz’s presence. We took a break while the ref sorted things out.
Kane held Morrison up for a Stall Suplex. Punk smiled at the move. Kane used a knee across the throat to choke Morrison. Kane nailed a Neckbreaker. Kane locked in a Rear Chin Lock. Kane dropped an elbow onto the top of Morrison’s skull. Morrison started attacking the knee of Kane, again. Kane filed off an Uppercut. Kane sent Morrison to the ropes, but dropped his head. Morrison booted the chest of Kane and then threw a Dropkick. Morrison kicked Kane in the corner and then climbed the ropes to pummel the Big Red Machine. Kane shoved Morrison off of him. Morrison quickly rushed back to the corner for more punishment. Kane pushed Morrison off the ropes, again.
Kane came out with a Big Boot, but Morrison ducked. The Shaman of Sexy let loose with several savate kicks to the legs of Kane. Morrison came off the ropes and Chop Blocked the knee of Kane. Morrison stomped on the knee. Morrison locked in a Spinning Toe Hold on Kane. Kane battled out of the crimped leg hold. Morrison hit a Dropkick to the knee of Kane. Morrison kept up the attack on the knee. Morrison slid out of the ring and slammed the knee into the ring post. Morrison kicked at the knee, over and over.
Kane hit an Uppercut, but Morrison came right back. Morrison locked up the knee in the ropes. Morrison dropped his whole weight onto the knee of Kane. Adamle talked about Kane being like the One-LEGGED Man in The Fugitive. OK, now I think they are scripting these mistakes. Morrison twisted the knee of Kane and then beat on the face of Kane. Kane got some momentum by turning around and working over Morrison with fists of his own. Morrison reversed things with several, well-placed kicks to the thigh and knee of Kane. Morrison tried to hyper-extend the knee of Kane. Kane punched at the head of Morrison. Kane kicked Morrison off him. Kane limped towards Morrison and nailed a monster set of Uppercuts. Kane whipped Morrison to the corner and hit a pair of Limping Clothesline in the corner. Kane went for the Side Slam, but Morrison flipped over and kicked Kane.
Morrison went for an Irish Whip, but Kane turned and caught Morrison with the Side Slam. Morrison kicked out at two. Kane climbed the ropes and leaped off with the Flying Clothesline.Kane reached up to signal the Chokeslam. Miz jumped on the apron, but Punk ran around to pull him down. Kane caught Morrison with a huge boot to the face. Miz whipped Punk into the steel steps. Kane turned to look at the carnage on the outside. This allowed Morrison to grab his tag title belt. When Kane turned around, Morrison blasted him between the eyes with it. Morrison then caught Kane with a Springboard Crescent Kick. Morrison scored the pin and the win.
Grade: A-
Miz slid in the ring and lifted his partner’s arm in victory. Kane slapped the mat in frustration. Miz stomped on Kane. Morrison joined in. Punk rushed the ring to aid his partner. The Miz/Morrison team double teamed Punk. Miz caught Punk with the Reality Check. They then turned to attack Kane. Miz held Kane as Morrison hit a Running Knee to the face. Miz and Morrison left the ring and held their belts up to taunt Kane and Punk.
Final Grade: B
Final Thoughts:
OK, Adamle is a total mess. He can’t even get his own partner’s name right. He can’t tell one Diva from another. He can’t even pass Wrestling Moves 101. Who’s brilliant idea was it to put this car wreck of an announcer behind the mic? I’ve tried my best to be fair, but it’s getting to the point of insulting. I so want to see Kane pull a Pete Rose on this goof. Let Adamle get in the ring and mess up an interview with the Big Red Machine. Kane could Chokeslam Adamle and then Tombstone him. Could I yell “Bring Back Joey” a little louder? I don’t think so.
Now that I’m done ranting about Adamle, I have some positive things to say about ECW. I like Knox’s finisher. It is definitive, and quick. I also think the feud between Kofi and Shelton is working well. Both men are fantastic talents that really help each other shine. This feud was a stroke of booking genius. Maybe the writers will get the hint and start setting up a few more of these great feuds. There are rumors that Umaga is about to move over to either ECW or Smackdown. An Umaga/Kane feud would be great.
One last thought. If Armando is going to be on the active roster, does that call for a new GM? I realize that he said he wanted to do both, but shouldn’t he do one or the other? He’s got a great physique and some decent talent. I see him as this generation’s Diamond Dallas Page. This is meant as a strong compliment to Armando.
–Jay Shannon
JayofPWD@SBCGlobal.net
(5/14/08)
ECW (5/6) Recap: A Tag Challenge!
Our resident philosopher, Jay Shannon, brings us the centennial edition of ECW on Sci-Fi
I’ve got my party hat on and a soda and some hot popcorn. Let me throw out a trivia question to start things off. Who fought in the very first ECW on Sci-Fi match? Check the end of the recap for the answer.
We started with a look back at the stars that have joined us each week for the last 100 years. We saw clips of Paul Heyman, Sabu, Big Show and others. Even Vinny Mac was on the screen.
Tazz welcomed us to the show. Mike Adamle was introduced. Tazz talked about walking off last week’s show in support of his partner. Mike got in the ring to a huge round of cat-calls and “We Want Joey” chants. Mike grabbed the mic and started talking about his exit, last week. Mike apologized for losing his cool. He apologized to Tazz for leaving him in the lurch. He also apologized to the fans. Mike talked about his career in football, American Gladiators, and other places. Mike sounded really cocky as he talked about announcing longer than most of the fans had been alive. The crowd was brutal. Mike didn’t realize how hard the job was. Mike tried to suck up to the fans, but they weren’t buying it. Mike talked about the wrestlers giving him grief about his mistakes. Mike told the fans to despise him, if they will, but enjoy the 100th episode of ECW. You could see the anger on his face as he left the ring.
Tommy Dreamer came to the ring with the shopping cart full of toys. The crowd erupted with joy. Stevie Richards joined Tazz and Mike at the announce table. Mike Knox stomped to the ring. Mike Adamle told us that Stevie Richards fought in the very first ECW match, ever. It was before ECW even had a television deal.
Mike Knox d Tommy Dreamer.
Extreme Rules Match
Knox pounded away on Tommy and dropped him with a Shoulder Block. Tommy blasted Mike and Clotheslined him over the ropes. Tommy went to the floor and used his shirt to choke Mike. Tommy went to get the cast, but Mike took Tommy out with a Clothesline. Mike grabbed a cookie sheet and wallopped him.
The two got back in the ring and Mike caught Tommy with a Stall Suplex. Mike laid Tommy across the ropes and hit the Leg Lariat on the ropes. Mike went to the floor and grabbed some hockey sticks. Tommy kicked a trash can into the face of Mike. Tommy beat on Mike with a hockey stick, a kendo stick and an OAR!. Tommy broke the oar over Mike’s head. Tommy emptied the shopping cart and threw it in the ring.
Tommy tried to suplex Mike onto the cart, but Mike reversed it. Mike climbed the ropes, but Tommy locked him in the Sullivan Tree of Woe and bashed him with the Singapore Cane. Tommy placed the can against Mike Knox. Tommy then placed the shopping cart next to the can. Tommy hit the Hesitation Dropkick, which sent the can and cart into Mike. Tommy sent and got a table. Tommy tried for a Bulldog, but Mike converted it into a Back SUplex through the table.
Mike went to the floor and got a chair. Mike missed with the chair shot to Tommy’s head. Tommy blasted the back of Mike with the chair. Mike recovered and caught Tommy with the Knox U Out onto the steel chair. Mike upset the Hardcore Icon.
Grade: A-
We saw the flashback appearance of the Zombie and the Sandman. Sandman whipped Zombie like a government mule in that match. We went to break.
Kelly’s Expose made an appearance. Kelly did a serious bump and grind in black leather. She had that Catwoman thing going. The crowd was both thrilled and bored at the same time. Layla joined the cance session. Kelly and Layla jockeyed for position in the ring. Layla was in jeans and a red and silver top. This was the longest Expose, ever. Kelly slapped Layla and it broke down into one heck of a catfight. Makes me miss Joey’s voice, even more. Ok, I’ll do my best Joey Styles for this one…CatFiiight!
We saw a flashback to RVD v Hardcore Holly. It wa the match where Holly had his back sliced open by landing on a table. That Suplex off the apron is a part of the “Please don’t try this at home” video on all WWE DVDs. Tazz reminded us that Holly got 17 stitches in his back because of that landing.
We saw Roddy Piper crashing Matt Striker’s birthday party. We also got to see the Boogeyman show up and put the worms in Striker’s mouth. I miss the Boogeyman.
We saw last week’s match between Chuck Palumbo and C.M. Punk. Palumbo was DQd because of failing to heed the ref’s demands. Lena talked with Chuck. He told Punk that he would knock Punk out if he got in his face again.
We went back to the arena for Shelton Benjamin’s arrival. Shelton was dressed in street clothes. Shelton joined the announce team. Kofi Kingston then danced his way to the ring. The crowd loved the Jamaican Sensation. Mike asked Shelton if he could beat Kofi. Shelton said it was like asking Mike if he could stay at the announce table for a whole show. Ouch.
Matt Striker stormed to the ring. Striker got introduced to Mr. Socko, last week.
Kofi Kingston d Matt Striker
Matt popped Kofi in the face and then hit a Belly to Back Suplex. Kofi hit a huge Dropkick and then cut loose with the Jamaican War Cry. Kofi dropped the Double Legs over the chest. Matt threw Kofi into the ropes. Kofi bounced back and hit Trouble in Paradise. Mike called it a Flying Scissors Kick, but it’s actually a Buzzsaw Enziguri.
Grade: C
After the match, Shelton attacked and hit the Gold Rush (Slider Face Plant) on Kofi. We went to the back where C.M. Punk led the talent in clapping for Colin Delaney. Colin was scheduled to battle Armando Estrada, next.
We saw the battle betwen the Originals and the New Breed. Sadly, most of the eight men in the match have left the company.
Colin Delaney got a nice pop as he walked to the ring. The Ricky Ricardo-sounding music sounded. Armando was in incredible shape as he came to the ring. He was referred to as the former Cuban Heavyweight Champion.
Colin Delaney d Armando Estrada
Contract Match.
Colin tried for a quick roll-up. Armando hit a Clothesline and then slapped Colin. Armando moved Colin into the corner and punched the kid. He then Bieled Colin all the way across the ring. Armando locked in a Keylock Armbar. Colin fought to his feet and blasted the ribs of Armando. Armando sent Colin to the mat by the hair.
Armando missed a splash in the corner. Colin opened up with fitst to the face. Colin hit an Irish Whip, but Armando held onto the ropes. Colin hit a Dropkick. Armando tossed Colin to the floor.Colin slipped back in the ring. Collin caught Armando with a roll-up and won his contract!
Grade: B
Tazz called for Colin to come over to him. Colin ran around the ring and slapped hands with the crowd. Colin thanked Tommy Dreamer for being his mentor. Colin thanked the doubters, because they made him come out, each and every week. Colin looked like he was going to cry with happiness as he realized that he was now an ECW Superstar. Way to go, Colin.
We went to the Smackdown Rebound. It was part three of the “What the Heck?” events of last week. First, WIlliam Regal pulled the plug on Raw. Second, Mike Adamle (and Tazz) took a walk. The third part was Vickie Guerrero stripping Undertaker of the World Title. Vickie sent Khali to take the title from Undertaker. ‘Taker locked in the Gogoplata Choke Hold on Khali. Vickie’s forces ran to the ring and grabbed the title. Undertaker looked ready for revenge.
Miz and Morrison joined Mike and Tazz at ringside. They gave Mike grief about mispronouncing Miz’s name in the past. Miz gave Tazz a “Chick Magnet” T-Shirt.
Bam Neeley and Chavo Guerrero made their way to the ring. THe crowd exploded as C.M. Punk made his entrance. Punk had his Money in the Bank briefcase. Punk was joined by the ECW champion, Kane. The entire arena was bathed in crimson light.
Bam Neely & Chavo Guerrero v C.M. Punk and Kane
Kane beat on Bam as the newcomer tried to take out Kane’s knee. Knae hit an Uppercut, a Clothesline and a big Bodyslam. Punk tagged in and hit a Springboard Senton. Punk worked over the arm and shoulder of Bam. Punk hit a pair of Flying Fore-arms to Bam’s face. Bam took Punk down with a Shoulder Block. Bam dragged Punk to his corner, tagged in Chavo and Bodyslammed Punk. Chavo came over the ropes for a Springboard version of the Frog Splash, but landed on the knees of Punk. Punk tried to cradle Chavo for the win, but Chavo kicked out. Punk hit a Snap Suplex. Chavo kneed Punk in the ribs and then nailed a European Uppercut. Chavo moved Punk to the corner and popped him in the head. Chavo tried to distract the ref so Bam could get some shots in. Punk turned and knocked Bam off the apron. Chavo charged at Punk and ended up flipped up and over the ropes. Bam caught Chavo before he landed. We went to break.
Punk worked on Bam’s arm with an Arm Wringer. Punk also broke out several martial arts kicks to the chest and arm of Bam. Miz and Morrison grumbled about not being talked about. Miz, Morrison and Tazz started giving Mike a hard time. I actually felt sorry for Mike. Bam reversed an Irish Whip and sent Punk into the corner. Bam blasted the back of Punk and then tagged Chavo into the match.
Chavo took down Punk with a European Uppercut. Morrison was really baiting Adamle during this match. Chavo punched the skull of Punk and then moved him to the corner. Chavo took Punk to the mat and hit the Guerrero Senton onto Punk’s back. The move was a Senton Back Splash, but Chavo tucked his arms and legs in to provide more torque to the move. Chavo locked in a Rear Choke on Punk. Chavo changed the move to bar Punk’s arm and twist the neck, at the same time. Punk got to his feet and began to throw knees to get free. Chavo used the hair to send Punk to the canvas. Chavo brought Punk to the corner, and tagged Bam back into the match.
Bam stomped on Punk and yelled at him. Miz started to get in Tazz’s face, but the ECW Original stood his ground. Punk battles to his feet, but a knee to the ribs slowed Punk down. Bam hit a Belly to Back Suplex on Punk. Chavo tagged back into the match. Chavo hopped over the ropes and planted a boot in the center of Punk’s chest. Chavo stomped on Punk. Chavo hit a Belly to Belly Suplex. Chavo shot the Half-Nelson to cradle Punk into a pinning position. Punk kicked out at two. Chavo worked on Punk’s neck. Chavo turned and punched Kane. That brought the Big Red Machine into the ring. Scott Armstrong headed Kane off at the pass.
Chavo and Bam double teamed Punk in the corner. Bam officially tagged into the bout. Bam dropped Punk with a huge fist to the face. Bam Irish Whipped Punk to the corner, but Punk jumped over the ropes and landed on the apron. Bam charged, but Punk hit a sharp Fore-arm shot to Bam’s face. Punk hit a Springboard Clothesline to drop Bam to the mat. Kane and Chavo tagged into the match. Chavo hit a Flying Crossbody on Kane, but the ECW Champ just turned and rushed Chavo into the corner. Kane cut loose with fists on Chavo and then hit a Big Boot. Kane sent Chavo flying with a Back Body Drop. Chavo scampered to the corner, only to be hit by Kane’s Running Clothesline. Kane hit the Sidewalk Slam. Kane showed the sign for the Chokeslam. Before he attacked Chavo, Kane turned and blasted Bam. Bam fell to the floor.
Chavo rushed at Kane. Kane lifted him up and dropped him over the ropes. Chavo got caught in the ropes on the way down and landed hard on the apron. Kane climbed the ropes and hit his Kane Flying Clothesline. Kane seemed to jam his knee on the landing. Kane tagged out. Punk flew off the ropes, but missed the move he wanted. Punk recovered and nailed a Leg Lariat. Punk hit several Kneelifts, but Chavo moved into a Go Behind. Punk reversed the Go Behind and shoved Punk into the corner. Punk then hit the Elevator Knee to the face of Chavo. Chavo pushed out of the Bulldog attempt. Punk turned and hit the Step-Up Enziguri. Bam made the save. Kane came in the ring and hit the Big Boot. Chavo clipped the knee of Kane. The distraction allowed Punk to catch Chavo in the Fireman’s Carry. Punk put the icing on the cake with the G-T-S. Say goodnight, Gracie. Punk laced the leg and got the pin.
Grade: A
Miz and Morrison lifted their tag teams belts to issue a challenge to Kane and Punk. We faded to black as Punk held his briefcase up. There just may be a tag title match in our near future.
Trivia Answer: The Sandman used a White Russian Leg Sweep to defeat The Zombie. The match lasted less than three minutes.
Final Grade: C
Final Thoughts: ECW 100 should have pulled out all the stops. It didn’t. There weren’t any surprise guests, like former ECW stars. The highlight match of the night was the Colin Delaney match. Even that one was a case of Who really cares?. I would imagine the ratings are going to seriously disappoint the WWE brass.
While I hope to be able to celebrate the 200th episode of ECW, I don’t think that it’s going to happen. Part of me was actually hoping that Vince was going to stroll out and tell the world that he was pulling the plug on ECW, tonight. In my fantasy version of tonight’s show, Punk would turn on Kane. He would then cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase. Punk would attack the knee and upset Kane for the ECW title. Vince would then have come out to congratulate the new champion. He would then inform Punk that he would have the honor of being the last ECW champion. Vince would look in the camera and say “Paul (Heyman), I just killed your child, for a second time.” The screen would then go black. I guess it’s a good thing I’m not on the writing team.
–Jay Shannon
JayofPWD@SBCGlobal.net
(5/7/08)
Int’l Wrestling Cartel (4/25) Recap: Super Indy VII!
The Super Indy is one of the independent wrestling scene’s preimer annual events. Get all the details on this year’s edition, right from the official source!
The International Wrestling Cartel’s seventh and final Super Indy Tournament spectacular emanated from IWC’s home, The Court Time Sports Center in Elizabeth, Pa on April 25, 2008. Super Hentai, Colt Cabana, Chris Sabin, John McChesney, Delirious, and Larry Sweeney all hit new career heights following their Super Indy Tournament victories. Who would join that illustrious list?
The evening started in an attempt to fill the 8th and final seed as Michael “The Bomber” Façade battled “Snapshot” CJ Sensation in an effort to fill the void left by Super Hentai who was under doctor’s orders to sit out Super Indy VII as a result of the savage, criminal beating delivered at the hands of The Gambino Family. However, an 8th entrant could NOT be determined here, as “Fabulous” John McChesney, irate over not being given the 8th seed himself, emerged dressed to fight, attacking both competitors and making a major statement that he will make his mark at Super Indy whether he’s given an opportunity or whether he has to take it.
Official first round action kicked off with “Future of Fashion” Shiima Xion defeating “Altar Boy” Luke Hawx, no doubt looking for his second opportunity to impress IWC brass after failing to move beyond the first round in IWC Heavyweight Title tournament in September 2006. Shiima unveiled a new maneuver, a double knee strike he calls Bible Black, to advance to the semifinal round.
Shiima’s tag team partner Jason Gory attempted to make it a BFF vs. BFF semifinal round match, as well as equal the success he attained last year when he captured the Super Indy Title -albeit only for an hour- but had a tough test in front of him in former ECW World Champion Jerry Lynn, competing for the Super Indy Title for the first time in six years. After an amazing contest, Lynn moved on to the next round with the cradle piledriver.
The first man to qualify for Super Indy VII, Davey Richards battled the man who many feel should have won at Super Indy V, “Balls Hot” Troy Lords. Davey made a big time statement early on by doing the one thing no one could do at Super Indy V no matter how hard they tried: forcing Troy Lords to tap out. Richards cinched in a lethal Texas Cloverleaf to move on to the semifinals.
John McChesney made his presence known once again, demanding the 8th seed in Super Indy, despite losing his chance to qualify when he was defeated by Jake “The Snake” Roberts two weeks earlier. McChesney stated he would wrestle ANYONE to get the Super Indy seed. McChesney was nearly forced to eat those words as the 6’1 272 3/8 lb. TNA Women’s Knockout Champion Awesome Kong came to the ring. As McChesney stared into what could be a painful fate, promoter Norm Connors decided to spontaneously award McChesney the Super Indy seed against Ricky Reyes - While Reyes was applying the Dragon Sleeper onto McChesney. Just 6 seconds later, McChesney had no choice but to tap out, leading to another decisive victory as Reyes’ combined match time for the qualifying and quarterfinal round matches totaled less than 2 minutes combined.
In the semi-final round, Jerry Lynn conquered the second half of the IWC Tag Team Champions in another stellar match, this time besting Shiima Xion. Xion’s hopes of advancing to the final round just as he did last year were put to rest by Lynn’s second cradle piledriver of the evening.
Ricky Reyes and Davey Richards finally met in the rubber match from their competitive series seen at IWC’s Call to Arms weekend this past December. Both men split victories with one another using the exact same move: a kimura lock that Richards had perfected, but Reyes had retaliated with. On this night, Richards’ weapon of choice continued to be the Texas Cloverleaf, and the man who made the likes of Low-ki, Homicide, and Brent Albright tap out in IWC rings… was forced to tap out himself. Davey Richards advanced to the final round.
Lynn and Richards battled through fatigue in the hopes of attaining the ultimate prize, pushing their bodies beyond normal limits, and finding the true heart and determination worthy of a champion. It was an extra exclamation point put on the victory, as Jerry Lynn not only survived Richards’ offense, but delivered - not a cradle piledriver - but a cradle tombstone piledriver to officially bring Super Indy 7 to an end. Lynn adds to his resume, which includes an ECW World Title, WWE Light-heavyweight title, NWA Tag Title, and TNA X Division Title, the IWC Super Indy Title.
A humble Jerry Lynn was presented the Super Indy Title by previous champion and tournament winner Larry Sweeney, but Jerry Lynn shockingly refused the title. Lynn stated he hasn’t truly earned it until he’s defeated Larry Sweeney himself for the honor, and as a result a match has been signed for May 17 pitting Larry Sweeney against Jerry Lynn for the Super Indy Title.
In non-tournament action, Dennis Gregory survived a Boot Camp Match to pin The Sandman and become the unprecedented five-time IWC champion, however he did not do it alone. Although Gregory’s War Machine has been somewhat divided in recent times, John McChesney still was not done as he delivered the knockout shot to The Sandman with Sandman’s own championship belt to give Gregory a record-setting victory.
Super Indy champion “Sweet & Sour” Larry Sweeney had two goals stepping into the four-way elimination match on this night: successfully retain the Super Indy Title against Delirious and Ruckus, but perhaps just as importantly, regain his most prized personal possession, the Sweeney-created ICW-ICWA Texarkana Television Title that he was defeated for under dubious circumstances by, of all people, Figure Four newsletter writer and Wrestling Observer correspondent Bryan Alvarez.
Ruckus was the first athlete to be eliminated after Larry Sweeney countered one of Ruckus‘ breathtaking high risk moves to roll him up. Delirious seemed in prime position to eliminate champion Sweeney after Shadows Over Hell, but once Dennis Gregory made his way to ringside to confront Daizee Haze, who Gregory had had a distasteful confrontation with earlier, Delirious took his attentions off of the ring long enough to unfortunately be counted out. It was down to Sweeney and the man who stole his prized possession, and the man who had been running from him all match, Bryan Alvarez. Alvarez attempted to fight, but the 12 Large Elbow led to the retaining of the Super Indy Title and the regaining of the Texarkana Title, as Sweeney if for only a moment and only in his mind, was a dual champion.
The entire Gambino Family came to the ring to gloat about their criminal assault on Super Hentai that cost Hentai his dream of a second Super Indy tournament victory. The Family even went as far as to attempt to toll the bell ten times in honor of Hentai’s ‘dead career’. However, before the count could hit ten, another bell began to toll in the form of Super Hentai’s entrance music. Hentai, Michael Façade, and mentor Shirley Doe, all armed with weaponry stormed the ring for a wild and ugly gangfight that spilled all over the building and even outside of it. All six men are on a collision course, with deeply personal emotions and wreckless intent driving all involved.
Perhaps the most cohesive team today, Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin, The Motor City Machine Guns, battled perhaps the most focused in Eric Xtasy & Justin Idol, Sexual Harassment, with the winners receiving an IWC Tag Title shot at Babyface Fire in May. Shelley & Sabin dazzled those in attendance with their seamless double team offense, but it was not enough to conquer the focus and determination of Sexual Harassment, who found a way to win and march one step closer to Xtasy & Idol’s first tag team title together. However, after the match, an angry Shelley & Sabin attacked the winning team and showed that just because they were not victorious, they still were not going to go away quietly.
The IWC debut of the physically imposing Awesome Kong saw her as angry and dangerous as ever, dominating the double-tough Daizee Haze. Haze refused to back down and give Kong everything she had, but after Awesome Kong’s Awesome Bomb, IWC’s second ever women’s singles match was history.
Future events include:
Hell Hath No Fury 3 – Saturday, May 17, 2008 Elizabeth PA 7:30 PM
IWC Heavyweight Championship: Dennis Gregory vs Delirious
IWC Super Indy Championship: Jerry Lynn vs Larry Sweeney
IWC Tag Team Championship: Babyface Fire vs Sexual Harrassment
Ricky Reyes vs Fabulous John McChesney
Ray Rowe vs J-Rocc
Troy Lords vs Johnny Gargano
Super Hentai, Shirley Doe, and Michael Facade vs The Family
Summer Sizzler 2008 – Saturday, June 7, 2008 Elizabeth PA 7:30 PM
– The IWC Headquarters Staff
(5/5/08)
Univeral Wrestling Alliance (4/26): Hardcore Virus!
From the opening match to the hardcore main event, this show lit up Ontario. Get all the info from the official source!
PWA Niagara (4/26) RecapL Zero Hour!
Get all the highlights and sidelights of this sizzling indy benefit card — right from the official ringside source!
PWA Niagara: Zero Hour
(Benefit show to support Jon Hintenbergers fight against Leukemia)
Wellend
Club Social
Attendance: 180-200
Ring Announcer: Chris Chaos
Referees: Sam Cino, Moe Mantha, Andrew Mollen & about a dozen other guys
1) Dark Match: A Battle Royal with the final 2 competitors wrestling for a PWA Niagara contract. Came down to Ethan Page and Mike Rollins. Their match ended in a No Contest when Jessy Jones, Gordon Gustav, Eddie Osbourne and Eric Everlast rushed the ring and attacked them both.
Promo - Jessy Jones announced that Rip Impact had joined the Sports Generation. Jones told fans that Pepper Parks had been stripped of the PWA Niagara Championship. Jones called Ron Falco to he ring and declared him the #1 contender but he’d have to fight Notorious TID for the vacant title. TID also came to the ring. Suddenly Johnny Puma came out to the ring and began running his mouth about deserving a shot since he’s the current NWA Empire Heavyweight champ. A 3 way brawl broke out and officials & wrestlers had to pull the 3 apart setting up a 3-Way main event for the PWA Niagara title
2) PWA Tag Team Championship
The Italianos (Primo Scordino & Tony “Stickball” Carbonie) with “The Bodyguard” Gary Gambino def Eric Everlast & Eddie Osbourne w/ Gordon Gustav
3) GM Challenge Match
“The Sport” Jessy Jones w/ Gordon Gustav def Corey Mason
4) 5-Way Elimination Match to Crown First Ever PWA Niagara Primadonna Champion
Krystal Banks def Deanna Conda, Jodi D’Milo, Synndy Synn & Sabrina Kyle
5) New Tradition Title Match
Special Guest Referee: Rip Impact
Gabe Saint def champion Kris “Rip Impact” White by DQ. Rip Impact began slugged White after the match but was attacked by Gordon Gustav & Jessy Jones. White nailed Impact with Sliced Bread and dumped a loaf of Wonder Bread on him.
Promo - Zakk Atticus & Krystal Banks came to the ring and Zakk (doing a hilarious Randy Savage imitation) ranted about “Dangerboy” Derek Wylde being a chicken. Jimmy “Jam” Olsen came to the ring and told Atticus that Wylde wanted him in a Dog Collar Match.
6) Zakk Atticus w/ Krystal Banks def Jimmy “Jam” Olsen
7) Pistol Pete Must Win or Be Fired Match:
“Too Sweet” Pistol Pete def Chris Cooper by DQ
“The Bodyguard” Gary Gambino came out to ringside to watch the match and was attacked after the bell by Ice and Cooper. The Italianos ran out to attack Ice & Cooper and the 4 brawled to the back. Pete asked Gambino if he would be his manager for his remaining days in the ring. Gambino said yes.
Jon Hintenberger’s wife & sister came to the ring and delivered a heartfelt thank you to the fans & PWA Niagara for all their support. It was a VERY touching moment. All the winners of the raffle & 50/50 prizes gave their winnings to the cause as well.
PWA Niagara Champinship (Title vacant)
Ron Falco def Notorious TID and Johnny Puma by count-out to win the championship.
Falco called his kid into the ring to celebrate. GM Jessy Jones (who watched the bout from ringside with Gordon Gustav) declared that Johnny Puma was the new #1 contender and got a match for the title immediately. Puma grabbed the title belt and smashed Falco in the head, busting him wide open. Puma covered Falco and referee Moe Mantha delivered a fast 3 count and awarded the belt to Puma. Notorious TID entered the ring and demanded a title shot from Jones but the GM said no. TID knocked Jones to the mat and stood on his throat until he agreed to grant TID a title shot against Puma at the next show.
To conclude the show, all the wrestlers entered the ring for a final salute to the fans and Jon Hintenberger
– The PWA Headquarters Staff
(5/2/08)
Showtime All-star Wrestling (4/12): Doomsday Blockbuster!
Our ringside analyst brings you all the action and angles of episode 40!
ECW (29) Recap: Wrestling in silence!
Our resident philosopher, Jay Shannon, provides the missing commentary for Tuesday’s ECW broadcast.
I wanted to take just a moment, before I get started, to send out my deepest condolences to the Anoa’i and Fatu families. Over the week-end, the mother of Umaga, Rikishi and the Tonga Kid lost her battle against cancer. To the family of Mrs. Fatu: May the joy of her life serve as a comfort in this time of grief. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this toughest of times.
ECW came from Atlantic City, tonight. Matt Striker was scheduled to take Mike Foley to school. Also, Kane battled Bam Neely and Chavo Guerrero in a Handicap match.
Mike Adamle welcomed us to Atlantic City and then threw it to The Tazz to run down the card.
Shelton Benjamin made his entrance. He had a new gold outfit, this week. Shelton was hot that Kofi Kingston beat him, last week. Shelton asked for a rematch against the Jamaican Sensation. Kofi danced his way to the ring. He got a huge pop from the crowd.
Shelton got on the mic and told Kofi that his win, last week, was a fluke. Shelton promised to end Kofi’s win streak this week.
Kofi Kingston d Shelton Benjamin
Match Highlights:
Shelton went on the attack from the get go. A huge Clothesline and several slams rocked Kofi. Shelton hit a Side Backbreaker. Shelton arched Kofi’s back across his (Shelton’s) knee. Kofi used chops and kicks to fight back. Shelton caught the leg of Kofi and Back Heel Tripped him. Shelton then used beat on Kofi.
Kofi got to his feet and ended up on the business end of several kneelifts. Shelton placed Kofi on the ropes and pounded away. Shelton tried for a Superplex, but Kofi fought back. Kofi hit a mile high Flying Crossbody off the ropes, but Shelton rolled through. Shelton nailed a Running Clothesline in the corner. He missed the second try. Kofi nailed the Trouble in Paradise (Buzzsaw Enziguri), out of nowhere, to take the win.
Grade: B+
Shelton looked ready to explode as he watched Kofi walk back up the ramp. We went to break.
We got a promo for Smackdown. Three championship will be defended. All I ask is that they keep William Regal away from the control room.
The Hardcore Legend, Tommy Dreamer, made his way to the ring. Colin Delaney was at Tommy’s side. Tommy faced Mike Knox.
Mike Knox d Tommy Dreamer
Match Highlights:
Tommy blasted Mike with fists and kicks. Mike reversed an Irish Whip. Tommy blocked a Hip Toss and went for a Clothesline. Mike ducked and hit a Clothesline of his own. Mike worked on Tommy’s neck and then hit a Side Suplex. Mike popped Colin in the face. Mike slid out of the ring and whipped Colin into the steel steps. Tommy Baseball Slid into Mike. Tommy went to the floor to check on Colin. Mike whipped Tommy into the steel post. Mike rolled Tommy into the ring and caught Tommy with the Knox U Out (Spinning Face Plant).
Grade: C
Tazz talked about Mick Foley getting promoted to the Smackdown announce team. I think that’s a great move. Coachman has been doing some announcing, outside of wrestling. Hopefully, Coachman will be brought back as an assistant to William Regal. Maybe, just maybe, he will replace Regal as Raw’s GM.
Matt Striker was in the ring. The crowd cut loose with a huge round of boos. Striker wanted to teach us all. Striker got a great Rush quote in. Striker threw respect to Mike Adamle. I have to admit, Adamle’s getting better. Striker then introduced Mick Foley, the newest member of the Smackdown announce team.
Striker had a lesson for Mick Foley. Mick got some seriously cheap plugs in for his books. He also highlighted his friendship with Katie Couric. Matt told Mick that “you have a face more suited for radio”. I seem to remember an old instructor of mine telling me the same thing. I did do a three year stint on radio, not television, during college. Matt talked about Mick’s smile and the missing teeth in the smile. Matt tried to make fun of Mick’s weight and hair. Mick derailed Matt’s rant. Mick told Matt that the missing teeth and ear are scars of honor that he earned. Mick then called Matt a “pretty boy”. Matt suggested that Mick looked like his just rolled out of a dorm room after “smoking the pot and listening to Bob Seger”.
Mick talked about his testicular fortitude. Matt tried to make fun of Mick’s knowledge of wrestling. Mick brought out Mr. Socko to teach Matt an English lesson. Mick cut a hilarious sentence breakdown to fake out Matt. Mick then locked in the Mandible Claw. Matt dropped to the mat like a stone. Class dismissed. Mick threw Mr. Socko to Mike Adamle. Adamle got a passing shot in at those who have called for his removal as an announcer. Mike, despite my earlier thoughts, I think you are going to work as a WWE announcer. A little more time and you will be tossing barbs with the best of them. Keep it up.
We took a look at the highlights from Backlash.
C.M. Punk made his way to the ring. I so expected him to cash in his Money in the Bank case on Sunday. One Night Stand would be a great place for the ECW Superstar to take out someone for the gold. One Night Stand was originally an ECW-exclusive Pay-per-view. Chuck Palumbo joined us from Smackdown for our next match.
C.M. Punk d Chuck Palumbo (by DQ)
Match Highlights
Chuck went straight at Punk, before the bell. Chuck moved Punk to the corner. Punk got free and caught Chuck with a Go Behind. Chuck rushed them into the corner. Punk protected his face from a shot by Chuck. Chuck Kneed Punk and slammed him. Chuck misssed a Flying Elbow Drop. Punk broke out a flurry of kicks and knees. Punk sent Punk into the corner. Punk tried to boot Chuck, but Chuck caught the foot. Chuck pulled Punk into a Clothesline.
Chuck pounded on Punk and hit a Belly to Back Suplex on Punk. Chuck locked in a Rear Choke on Punk. Punk made it to his feet and threw several elbows. Chuck over-powered Punk and moved him to the corner. Punk switched position and threw several Fore-arms. The ref dragged Punk out of the corner. Palumbo hit a cheap shot and then started to beat down on Punk. Chuck refused to break in the corner so Mike Posey disqualified Chuck.
Grade: D
Punk took the fight to Chuck, after the bell. Chuck hit a Lariat that nearly took Punk’s head off.
We went to the Raw Rebound. It was another showing of the whole situation with William Regal. Regal cheated the fans out of the ending of the title match between Triple H and Randy Orton. Regal cut the show off due to the disrespect by the fans and Mr. Kennedy. Regal will likely face serious consequences for that action. They say it’s a fine line between brilliance and insanity. I would say that they writers may have crossed that line, last night. Only time will tell on which side of the line the writers ended up.
Next week will be the 100th episode of Raw. Colin Delaney will face Armando Estrada. If Colin wins, he finally gets his contract. Tommy Dreamer will battle Mike Knox in an Extreme Rules Match.
Chavo Guerrero and Bam Neely walked to the ring. We saw Chavo lose to the ECW Champ at Backlash. It was a Chokeslam, from nowhere, that took out the Mexican Warrior. Mike Adamle left the announce table before the match. Adamle gave no explanation for his exit. Tazz was confused by the whole thing.
Kane strolled to the ring after the fire erupted. Bam took off his suit jacket as Kane called for the corner explosions. Tazz promo’d the newest Rambo movie. It will be released soon on DVD.
Chavo Guerrero & Bam Neely d Kane
Match Highlights:
Kane went at Chavo with a fury like you wouldn’t believe. He flipped Chavo over and hit a Low Dropkick. Chavo got a few shots in, but Kane Body Slammed him. Chavo moved to the corner and tried for a Tornado DDT. Kane tossed him off with no effort. Bam dragged Chavo out of the ring as we took a quick break.
Kane launched Chavo from the turnbuckle as we returned. Chavo hit a Dropkick to Kane’s thigh and tagged Bam into the match. The two men threw huge fists at each other. Bam Irish Whipped Kane to the ropes and Chavo kneed him in the back. Chavo double teamed Kane as often as possible. We had no commentary during this part of the match. Chavo hit a European Uppercut, but Kane pushed Chavo off. The two men went to the floor.
When Kane tried to get back in, Bam pulled Kane off the apron. Kane jammed his knee on landing. Chavo came out of the ring and kicked at the thigh. He rolled Kane back in the ring and tagged Bam back into the ring. Bam brutalized Kane with kicks and punches. He then tagged Chavo back into the match. Chavo worked over the leg of Kane and then moved Kane to the corner. Chavo choked and punched Kane in the corner. Kane went for a Double Choke Slam but the leg fave way. Kane sat up and freaked out Chavo. Kane hit a huge Back Body Drop on Chavo. Bam broke up a pin attempt. Chavo tagged out.
Kane caught Bam, coming in, with shots to the face. Kane hit the Running Clothesline in the corner. He then lifted Bam up for a Sidewalk Slam. Kane climbed the ropes and hit his Flying Clothesline. Kane went to Chokeslam Chavo, but Bam clipped the knee. Chavo hit the Frog Splash off the top rope to take the win.
Grade: B
A view to the announce table over Chavo’s shoulder showed it to be empty. I’m not sure what went down with Mike Adamle and Tazz but that was bizarre. Chavo celebrated as we went to silent black.
Final Grade: B-
Final Thoughts:
I am so confused by the last two nights on WWE programming. I’m wondering if this whole Adamle walk out was a work to set up a feud between Adamle and Mick Foley over the announce job on Smackdown. Adamle might be getting ready to demand a bigger announcer job. I could see the whole “I’m an announcing legend and I deserve better than ECW”.
ECW’s matches continue to slide in their intensity. These five minute mini-matches are killing any potential forward movement for the stars. The matches are about as interesting as the old vignettes in the AWA. Next week’s 100th episode of ECW will be a Make it or Break It show. Hopefully, the whole announcer situation will be ironed out. Who will join Tazz on the mic? Adamle? Coachman? Joey Styles? Join me next week and we will learn together.
–Jay Shannon
JayofPWD@SBCGlobal.net
(5/1/08)
Full Impact Pro (4/26) RecaoL Dangerous Intentions 2008!
This major annual indy event had some exciting and controversial matches. Find out all the details, right from the official ringside reporter.
Dangerous Intentions 2008
Crystal River, FL
4.26.08
FIP World Heavyweight Title Match - Last Man Standing
Roderick Strong def. Erick Stevens to retain the FIP World Heavyweight Championship in a brutal match that went all over the Crystal River National Guard Armory.
FIP Tag Team Title Match
Kenny King & Jason Blade of The YRR def. Jay Briscoe & Austin Aries. After the match Tyler Black came out and told the crowd that next month he will be joined by fellow Age of the Fall member Jimmy Jacobs to challenge The YRR.
Tyler Black def. Davey Richards in an excellent match.
Black Market vs. The Dark City Fight Club was a no contest as the officials could never gain control of the brawl. It ended when the DCFC poured gasoline onto Joey Machete and threatened to light him on fire until the locker room cleared out.
FIP Florida Heritage Title Match
Sal Rinauro def. Delirious after interference from The YRR
Damien Wayne w/ Heartbreak Enterprises & Babydoll def. Seth Delay
Rex Sterling w/ Heartbreak Enterprises & Babydoll def. Chris Jones. After the match Seth Delay came out and challenged Heartbreak Enterprises which led to…
Jigsaw def. Chasyn Rance
– The FIP Headquarters taff
(4/29/08)
TNA (4/24) Recap: The Rematch!
Our resident philosopher, Jay Shannon, steps in to bring us all the twists and turns in this week’s TNA broadcast
Our main event was Samoa Joe v Kurt Angle, in a re-match for the TNA World Title. We were also scheduled to get an update on the tag team situation and the Knockout special stipulation at Sacrifice.
Matt Morgan talked with the new interview girl, Lauren. Matt attacked Kip James and told Lauren to watch. He kicked Kip in the head.
We then went to a look back at the title matches from last week. We saw Petey Williams win the X-Title, Kong defend the Knockout title, and the tag team titles won by Kaz and Super Eric/Eric Young and then held up.
Tonight’s Episode: What are you willing to sacrifice?
The pyros exploded as Mike Tenay ran down the card. West joined in to cheer lead the TNA title re-match. Tenay is the best play-by-play man in the industry. He is the Gordon Solie of this generation. While I didn’t care for Don West, at first, I’ve warmed up to him. His enthusiasm isn’t faked. He truly seems to enjoy what he does.
The music of Booker T rocked the Impact Zone. The crowd gave Booker a slightly mixed reaction. Booker had a mic with him. TNA seems to be teasing a heel turn. Booker wanted to talk to Sting. He asked Sting to come to the ring. The music of Sting echoed through the building. Sting shook hands with the fans as he walked down the ramp. Sting looked a little cautious as he stepped between the ropes.
Booker talked about the wars that Sting and he battled in. Booker talked about watching a company crumble around us. Booker admitted to disrespecting Sting, last week. Booker asked for forgiveness. The two men shook hands as James Storm, Jacqueline Moore and Robert Roode came out. Storm ridiculed Sting and Booker about talking about their past glories. Storm suggested that Sting and Booker “should just get married” on national TV. Roode grabbed the stick and suggested that everyone wanted to see Sting and Booker fight. Roode tried to create a match between Sting and Booker.
Jim Cornette stopped Roode’s rant. He reminded everyone that Jim Cornette was the match-maker. Jim made a special announcement about the tag team tournament. He unveiled the Deuces Wild Tag Team Tournament. Over the next two weeks, 8 teams will compete in 4 tag team matches. The winners of those four matches will be going to Sacrifice. At Sacrifice, 8 singles wrestlers will be randomly partnered in 4 additional tag team matches. This is so similar to the old Lethal Lottery of the WCW days. I always loved that concept. The winners of the Deuces Wild tourney at Sacrifice will be the new tag team champions. Before Jim left the ring, he made our second main event: Robert Roode & James Storm v Booker T & Sting. Roode and Storm were livid at the announcement.
We went to the back, where JB talked with A.J. Styles. Styles mentioned that he and Tomko were going to win their match, next week, and go on to Sacrifice to regain their titles. Styles mentioned that Tomko was in Japan. Styles brought out Karen Angle. Karen started freaking out that she was in the Impact Zone. JB asked about what Kurt would think about Karen being in the building. Styles and Karen told JB that Kurt wasn’t going to find out. They forced JB to swear to secrecy.
We came to the ring for the first tag team qualifying match. Black Reign and RelliK made their entrance. They were scheduled to face the most decorated tag team in wrestling history, Team 3D. Ray and Devon looked dead serious as they came to the ring.
Team 3D d The Monsters (Black Reign & RelliK)
Deuces Wild Tag Team Tournament Qualifying Match
The two teams stared each other down. RelliK and Ray locked up with a Collar and Elbow. They moved to the corner. RelliK threw a shoulder and then beat down on Ray. Ray caught RelliK with a Sidewalk Slam. Devon tagged in and they brother hit a Double Suplex. Black Reign tagged in and beat on Devon.Black Reign used the Irish Whip to send Devon to the ropes. Devon ducked a Clothesline and hit a Flying Shoulder Tackle. RelliK prevented the pin. Ray ran in and threw RelliK to the floor. Team 3D Double Irish Whipped Black Reign to the ropes. Reign came off the ropes and hit dual Goldust Uppercuts on Ray and Devon. Ray went for the Flip, Flop and Fly but Reign moved. Devon almost Clotheslined Ray due to a miscommunication. They had problems, last week. They started yelling at each other. Reign nailed Devon from behind. Devon crashed into Ray, who fell out of the ring. We went to a commercial break.
RelliK and Reign double teamed Team 3D as we returned. RelliK locked in a Rear Chinlock. The crowd was almost 100% behind Team3D. RelliK went for a Big Boot, but Devon caught the foot. Devon spun RelliK, who hit a Spin Kick to drop Devon. RelliK sent to the top rope, but got caught. Devon hit a Superplex. Reign stopped the count. RelliK and Devon were both down. Devon made the tag out to Ray.
Ray came in and dropped RelliK, numerous times. Ray caught both RelliK and Reign with Back Body Drops. Ray then hit Stereo Clotheslines on The Monsters. He whipped Reign into RelliK, who had propped himself up in the corner. Ray then hit a monster Splash onto both men. Ray caught RelliK with the Uranage. Everyone thought Ray had the pin, but the ref said no. Ray planted Reign and went for the Whazzup!. RelliK shoved Devon off the ropes before they could hit the move. Ray got double teamed by the Monsters, but Devon made the save. It looked bad for Team 3D, but they caught RelliK with the 3D. The sudden change of momentum was enough for Team 3D to advance to Sacrifice as one of the Great Eight.
Grade: A-
Ray and Devon seemed to have a tense moment as they looked at each other. They then slapped hands and hugged. All seemed back on track for the Brothers, formerly from Dudleyville.
We went to the back with Lauren and the Knockouts. Gail Kim tried to figured out what the special invitations are for. They all suggested different concepts. The Beautiful People (Velvet Sky and Angelina Love) started to make fun of ODB. It looked like we were heading for a rumble, but we went to break, instead.
JB talked with Kurt Angle about the re-match, tonight. JB tried to tell Kurt about Karen, but Kurt stopped JB before he could say anything. Kurt talked about regaining the title and battling Rick Steiner. JB corrected Kurt about the defense being against Scott Steiner. Kurt answered “Whatever.” JB then told Kurt that Karen and Styles were together in the arena. Kurt lost his focus and stormed off with JB to find Styles and Karen.
We went to a great promo for the Angle v Joe feud. It talked about Kurt Angle being the first TNA champion, ever. It talked about Kurt’s 12 World titles and 3 NCAA wins. It then switched to Samoa Joe. The video talked about how Joe lost 1 match in 3 years, before joining TNA. We saw Joe claim the TNA title at Lockdown.
We went to a training session with Samoa Joe that was filmed earlier in the day. Kevin Nash was working with Joe. Mike Tenay asked Joe if he realized that if Kurt didn’t beat him that it might be Angle’s last shot at the title. Joe sounded totally confident in his ability to get past Angle, and then battle Scott Steiner at Sacrifice. We went to break.
We looked at the whole Kaz/Super Eric/Eric Young situation. Super Eric pinned Styles to win the titles. Styles claimed that Eric Young was responsible for outside interference by having Super Eric wrestle in the match. When Super Eric denied being Eric Young, Jim Cornette stripped them of the tag team titles.
Lauren tried to talk with Eric Young. Eric denied that he was Super Eric. Kaz tried to talk with Eric about losing the tag team championships due to Eric’s weird behavior. Next week, Eric Young and Kaz will be able to fight in the Deuces Wild tournament. Kaz begged Eric to call Super Eric and tell him to stay away from the match, next week.
We went back to the ring for our next match. It was our second Deuces Wild Tag Team Tournament Qualifying match. The Motor City Machine Guns came out first. Rhino came out to a new, earthquake rocking a city intro video. Rhino hit the ring at a dead run. Christian Cage rounded out the quartet.
Rhino & Christian Cage d The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin)
Deuces Wild Tag Team Qualifying Match
Shelley and Cage started the match. Shelley worked over the arm of Cage and flipped Cage to the mat. Shelley tried to hyper-extend the arm of Cage, but Cage got free and rolled over the body of Shelley. The two men got to their feet and Cage hit a Shoulder Block to drop Shelley. Shelley flipped out of a Hip Toss and hit a Back Kick on Cage. Shelley went for an Acid Drop, but Cage pushed Shelley off. Cage went for the Unprettier but Shelley unhooked his arms and leaped over Cage. Shelley hit a Back Elbow and then quickly climbed the ropes. Shelley sent Cage to the mat with a Crossbody. Cage rolled through t he move and almost pinned Shelley.
The two men slapped hands as a show of respect. Cage grabbed the arm of Shelley and dragged him to the Cage/Rhino corner. Rhino tagged into the match. Shelley kicked at Rhino’s knee. Shelley hit a Jawbreaker and then tagged Sabin into the match. Shelley held Rhino’s arm extended as Sabin vaulted over his partner and landed on Rhino’s arm. Rhino kicked Sabin and flipped him to the mat. Sabin tried several acrobatic moves to get free from Rhino. Rhino just over-powered Sabin. Rhino Irish Whipped Sabin to the corner, but caught a Back Spin Kick. Sabin charged out of the corner, only to fall victim to a Clothesline. Rhino chopped at Sabin and then nailed a Belly to Belly Suplex. Rhino set for the Gore! but Sabin moved. Rhino hit the corner and then fell to the floor. Sabin climbed to the top turnbuckle, but Cage pushed him off his perch. Sabin crashed into the barrier, outside the ring. Shelley rushed in and sent Cage to the floor. Shelley then hit a Tope Con Hilo to take out both Cage and Rhino. We went to break.
Shelley tagged in and hit a Senton over the ropes. Sabin hit a move over the ropes as well. Rhino recovered and hit the Anderson Spinebuster. Cage tagged in and chopped Shelley. Cage locked in a Rear Headlock. Shelley chpped and punched his way out. Cage caught Shelley off the ropes with a Back Elbow. Rhino tagged back in and pounded on Shelley. Rhino hit a Shoulder Block in the corner. Cage tagged back in and caught Shelley with a Powerslam. Cage twisted the neck and head of Shelley. Shelley fought out. Cage tried for the Inverted DDT, but Shelley converted into Sliced Bread. Shelley crawled to his corner. Sabin tagged in.
Sabin flew off the ropes with a Missile Dropkick to Cage. Sabin then blasted Rhino with a Step-up Enziguri. Sabin launched Cage with a Back Body Drop. Sabin threw Rhino out of the ring. Sabin threw his whole body into Cage, in the corner. Sabin flew off the ropes with a Clothesline. Sabin tried for the Cradle Shock, but Cage battled free. The Guns went for a double team move, but Cage flipped out of harm’s way. Shelley ran into Rhino, who hit the T-K-O on Shelley. Cage planted Sabin with a Brainbuster. Sabin kicked out at two. Cage and Rhino lifted Sabin for a Flapjack, but Sabin turned it into a Double DDT.
Sabin placed Cage on the ropes. Sabin and Cage fought on the ropes. Cage knocked Sabin off the ropes. Cage went for the Frog Splash, but missed. The Guns loaded up for their Firing Both Barrels finisher (a pair of Superkicks, followed by a Front/Back Kick to the head). Rhino Gored Shelley and Cage nailed the Unprettier to seal the deal on this one.
Grade: A-
The Knockouts all left the make-up room. They were going to find out the answers behind the special invitation, after a break.
Jim Cornette was back in the ring. The invitation had to do with a special match for Sacrifice. Jim called out all the Knockouts. Every single Knockout, except Kong and Raesha Saeed, made their way to the ring. Jim announced the TNA Knockout Battle Royal. Kong and Saeed stood on the rampway to listen. All the women, except Kong, would fight in an Over-the-top rope Battle Royal. The final two girls would battle in a Ladder Match to recover a contract for a title shot against Kong. The runner-up will find herself with a make-over. The make-over will get a Brittany Spears, head shaved, make-over in the ring. I’m putting my money on ODB to lose her hair.
Lauren talked with Booker T and Sting. Lauren accused Jim Cornette of “losing it”. Lauren asked Sting and Booker about having to possibly face each other. Booker said it’s all about winning. Sting asked Booker if Booker meant winning as partners or opponents. Booker simply talked about tonight. Sacrifice was another day.
Robert Roode made his way to the ring. Roode was missing Payton Banks, again this week. I’m not sure if she’s gone or just taking a break. James Storm and Jacqueline Moore made their entrance. Storm is probably the most under-rated star in TNA.
Booker T came out to a huge cheer from the crowd. Tenay kept talking about the possibility of Booker facing Sting at Sacrifice in the Deuces Wild tournament. I so smell a heel turn for Booker. The lights went out to herald the arrival of Sting.
Booker T & Sting d Robert Roode & James Storm
Roode Pearl Harbored Booker to start the match. Booker recovered and used a ton of Knife Edge Chops on Storm. Booker hit the Crescent Kick to drop Storm. Booker tagged Sting into the match. Sting went after Storm. Storm raked the eyes and tagged Roode into the match. Roode and Sting traded nasty fists and kicks. Sting moved Roode to the corner and rained down punches. Sting Hip Tossed Roode out of the corner and hit a Dropkick.
Booker tagged back into the match. Sting and Booker used the Double Irish Whip to send Roode to the ropes. Double Back Elbows sent Roode onto his back. Booker chopped Roode in the corner, several rimes. Booker hit a kneelift, but Roode went to the eyes. Roode Irish Whipped Booker to the corner, but Booker hit a Back Elbow to stun Roode. While the ref checked on Roode, Storm hit an Enziguri, from the apron, to the back of Booker’s head. Roode caught Booker with a Dropkick. Roode tagged Storm into the match, as we went to break.
Booker and Storm traded blows as we returned. Roode and Storm worked together to hit a Whirlwind Running Clothesline on Booker. Roode used the Hennig Neck Snap on Booker. Storm dropped the leg of Booker. Roode then dropped a knee onto Booker’s chest. Storm tagged back in and pounded on Booker in the corner. Storm grabbed his cowboy hat and donned it. He chomped down on the skull of Booker. Storm tagged out and Roode locked in a Front Face Lock. Booker fought to his feet, but Roode slowed Booker’s momentum with a couple of shots. Roode came off the ropes and straight into a Spinebuster.
Both Storm and Sting tagged into the match. Sting threw elbows and fists at both of his opponents. Sting then hit Stinger Splashes in opposite corners on Storm and Roode. Sting Face Planted Storm but Roode made the save. Booker went after Roode. Booker went for the Ax Kick, but Jacqueline grabbed Booker’s ankle and tripped him. Roode hit a DDt on Booker. Roode climbed the ropes but Sting caught him. Sting tried for the Superplex on Roode, but both Roode and Sting hit the mat as Storm Powerbombed Sting in mid-Superplex. Storm and Booker Double Clotheslined each other. Sting went to the floor. Roode grabbed the beer bottle and almost smashed it into the face of Storm. Storm and Roode had a shouting match in center ring. Sting slipped up behind Storm and dropped him with the Scorpion Death Drop. Sting hooked the leg for the win.
Grade: A
Roode and Storm got into a major shoving match after the match. Jacqueline did her best to break the two apart.
We went to the back where Kurt Angle got in A.J. Styles’ face. Kurt went off on Karen about coming to the show. Styles and Kurt almost came to blows over Karen. That feud is going to be amazing. We took a break before our TNA World title match.
Lauren was in Jim Cornette’s office. Cornette talked about all the spoiled wrestlers. Cornette pulled out another “back in the old days” rant. Jim hinted about a brutal, life-threatening match. Cornette called himself “The Puppet Master”. Jim giggled as he walked away. I’m liking the “new” Jim Cornette. He’s moving back to the mastermind that elevated multiple versions of the Midnight Express and the Heavenly Bodies to tag team supremacy.
It was time for our main event of the evening. It was a TNA World title re-match.We started with a “Tale of the Tape”. The two were pretty well matched.
Kurt Angle rose from the depths to a hail of boos and jeers. Angle showed absolutely no emotion and he jogged to the ring. Samoa Joe walked to the ring with the belt draped over his shoulder.The match was set to go after another break.
Samoa Joe d Kurt Angle
TNA World Heavyweight Title Match
Joe and Angle stalked each other. Joe moved Angle to the corner. The ref forced the break. Angle caught Joe with the Go Behind, but Joe reversed it. Angle moved them to the ropes. Angle grabbed a Headlock. Joe shoved Angle into the ropes and then dropped him with a Shoulder Block. Angle went to the floor.
When Angle returned to the ring, Joe grabbed another Headlock. Angle sent Joe to the ropes. Joe dropped Angle with the Shoulder Block. Angle rolled out the floor. Angle clutched his ribs. Joe grabbed the Headlock on Angle when he got back in the ring. Angle sent Joe to the ropes and then dropped to the mat. Joe ran over Angle and bounced off the opposite ropes. Angle tried for a Hip Toss, but Joe blocked it. Joe then almost decapitated Angle with a Clothesline. Joe took Angle to the mat with the Side Headlock Take-over. Angle got to his feet and moved Joe to the corner. Angle Irish Whipped Joe to the corner. Joe moved out of the way of Angle’s charge. The former champ hit the corner at full speed. Joe used the Side Headlock Take-over to flip Angle onto his back.
Joe kept most of his weight on Angle’s chest. Angle got to his feet and moved Joe to the corner, again. Angle raked Joe’s eyes and then nailed a European Uppercut. Angle threw fists and another European Uppercut. Angle went to Spear Joe in the corner, but ended up Spearing the corner post. Angle fell to the floor. Joe stepped back and then took off at a dead run towards the ropes. Joe sailed through the ropes with a Suicide Dive into a Flying Fore-arm. We took a quick break.
Angle hit several European Uppercuts on Joe as we returned. Angle Irish
Whipped Joe to the ropes. Angle went for the Leapfrog but Joe caught him and turned it into an Inverted Atomic Drop. Joe then backed up and hit a Running Boot. Joe then flew onto Angle with a Sen ton Back Splash. Angle kicked out at two. Joe hit several kicks and dropped the knee to Angle’s head. Angle retreated to the corner. Joe Face Washed Angle with the boot. Joe hit a Snap Suplex. Angle kicked out of the pin. Joe locked in a Cross Armbreaker. Angle scooted to the ropes to force the break.
Joe punched the face of Angle but Angle kicked the ribs and hit the German Suplex. Angle locked in the Rear Chin Lock. Joe got to his feet but we sent flying with an Overhead Belly to Belly Release Suplex. Angle locked in a Rear Chinlock. Joe fought to his feet. Angle raked the eyes. Angle charged at Joe, who caught Angle with the Chokeslam.
Joe punched at the ear of Angle. Angle seemed to be dazed. Joe flew over the ropes and landed on his knee. Joe collapsed when he tried to get to his feet. Angle slid out of the ring and attacked the knee. Earl Hebner slid out of the ring to check on the knee. Joe refused to give up. Would Joe be able to continue? We had to wait for another round of commercials to end before we found out.
Angle locked in a Figure Four LegLock on Joe as we returned. The crowd began to “whoo” for Angle. Kevin Nash and the trainers came out during the break to check on Joe. Nash told Joe to continue and not to fail “us”. Joe tried to crawl to the ropes. He also tried to unlock the legs. Joe reached with the last of his strength to force the break. Angle wrenched the knee of Joe. Joe chopped his way free. Joe and Angle exchanged fists. Joe Irish Whipped Angle to the corner. Joe caught Kurt with the Anderson Spinebuster. Angle kicked out at the last possible moment.
Angle hit another European Uppercut on Joe. Joe caught Angle with the Snap Slam. Angle went for the Anglelock, but Joe rolled over to send Angle to the corner before the Olympian could cinch in the move. Joe charged the corner, but Angle side-stepped the charge. Angle hit the AngleSlam. Amazingly, Joe kicked out at two. Angle showed a lot of frustration. Angle climbed the ropes and went for the Top Rope Moonsault. Joe moved at the last minute so Angle hit nothing but canvas.
Joe rolled over and tried to lock in the Kokina Clutch. Angle dropped down and locked in the AngleLock. Joe couldn’t roll out, initially. Joe was able to trip Angle. Angle fell backwards into the Kokina Clutch. Angle was able to grab the ropes to break the submission hold. Joe lifted Angle up onto the top rope. Joe wanted the Muscle Buster, but Angle fought free. Joe went for the Enziguri, but Angle moved and Earl Hebner took the full blow. There was a huge roar from the crowd when Earl got blasted.
Angle kicked Joe in the groin and then planted him with the AngleSlam. Angle dropped the straps. Angle tried to wake up Earl Hebner. Angle locked in the AngleLock, again. Joe rolled onto his back and pushed Angle off. Angle fell into the ropes. Scott Steiner came out of nowhere and blasted Angle in the head with a lead pipe! Joe lifted Angle up and hit a Powerslam/Brainbuster to take the win.
Grade: A+
Scott Steiner climbed into the ring and stared at Kurt Angle. Scott told Kurt “you never disrespect me”. Scott screamed at Joe. Joe slapped Scott. Jim Cornette came out and warned Scott that he would fine Scott Steiner “six months pay” if he touched anyone. Jim changed the World title match at Sacrifice to a Three Way match between Samoa Joe, Kurt Angle and Scott Steiner.
Final Grade: A
Final Thoughts: That was the way to put on a wrestling show. The action was excellent. The vignettes were a little silly but they fit perfectly into the whole scheme of things. Sacrifice is going to be a killer Pay-per-view. The tag team tournament is going to be absolutely incredible. The three way match should be really great. Samoa Joe v Scott Steiner would have been a good match. Throwing Kurt into the mix elevated it to the level of awesome.
Don’t forget that Backlash is this week-end.
–Jay Shannon
JayofPWD@SBCGlobal.net
(4/25/08)
ECW (4/22) Recap: Family Matters!
Our resident philosopher, Jay Shannon, takes us ringside for all the Extreme action.
Tonight’s show came from the Land of Flair, Greensboro, North Carolina. I’ve been to Greensboro and it’s absolutely one of the most beautiful areas of this country. The title montage started the show.
Kelly Kelly, dressed in neon blue bikini top and pants, bounced to the ring. She was joined by her partner, Tommy Dreamer. We looked back at last week, when Tommy was pulled from a match with Mike Knox in favor of Colin Delaney. Knox totally destroyed Colin with the Knox U Out finisher.
Layla strutted her way down the ramp, dressed in shiny black top and black pants. Layla showed incredible flexibility as she entered the ring. Layla’s partner was Mike Knox.
Tommy Dreamer & Kelly Kelly d Layla & Mike Knox
Mixed Tag Team Match
Layla pounded on Kelly’s back and locked in a Full Nelson. Kelly broke free and kicked Layla in the face. Layla rushed over and tagged out. Kelly made it to her corner, as well. Tommy came in and beat on Knox. Knox reversed an Irish Whip, but Tommy kicked Knox in the face. Knox bounced back with a Clothesline. Knox rushed at Tommy who hit a boot and a Bulldog.
The girls tagged back in. Kelly hit a high Crossbody but Knox made the save. Kelly tried for the Rocker Dropper, but Layla reversed out. Kelly ducked a Clothesline and then did hit the Rocker Dropper.
Grade: B
Mike Knox rushed in the ring and attacked Tommy. He planted Tommy with the Knox U Out.
We got a quick promo for Smackdown, where Batista will try to take the gold from Undertaker. Sadly, a lot of fans will miss the show due to baseball games. I know it’s America’s pasttime, but I really don’t like baseball. Maybe it’s because Nevada doesn’t have a team. Either that or 27 years of the Texas Rangers being the home team soured me to the sport.
We looked back at the political speeches of the Presidential candidates from last night. We saw clips of the “real” Hillary, Barack and McCain. Mike Adamle thanked all three for doing the wrestling-oriented speeches. I still question why WWE would promote politics to a lot of kids too young to vote. Go figure that one out.
We then saw the entrance of John Morrison. Miz seconded his tag team championship partner to the ring. Adamle talked about Morrison’s “8-Pack Abs”. Miz threw some respect towards Mike Adamle. Shannon Moore and JImmy Wang Yang came to the ring. Yang was set to battle the tag champ. Adamle, in his infinite lack of wrestling knowledge, called Shannon “Kofi”. He’s just got to get better. He sure couldn’t be any worse.
Jimmy Wang Yang d John Morrison
Morrison elbowed out of a Go Behind. Yang hit a Hurancanrana out of an Irish Whip. Yang then Cltoheslined Morrison over the ropes. When Morrison got back in the ring, he grabbed a Headlock. Yang got free and went for another Hurancanrana, but Morrison hooked the leg on the LeapFrog and slammed him. Guess Morrison has watched a few old Rick Steiner matches.
Morrison grabbed the leg but ate an Enziguri. Yang hit a Flying Monkey Flip. Yang got hit with a Back Elbow. Yang went to the top rope, but Morrison hit the ankle. Yang went to the mat. Morrison tried for Split Legged Moonsault, but Yang moved. Yang then hit his Moonsault Press from the top rope to pick up the win.
Grade: A
We went to the Raw Rebound. It focused on the King of the Ring tournament. It started off well, but fell apart in the Semi-Finals and Finals. William Regal won the match by forcing C.M. Punk to tap out to the Regal Stretch. The tournament featured MVP, Chris Jericho, Finlay, William Regal, Hornswoggle, C.M. Punk, The Great Khali and Matt Hardy. There really weren’t any decent top name stars in the tourney. Triple H, Undertaker, Edge, Orton and others were thrown in an 8 man battle. The 8-man should have been the King of the Ring contenders. This was yet another example of poor booking by WWE.
Tazz threw congrats out to Regal. We then took a look at the Backlash card. Kofi Kingston was warming up in the back. Shelton Benjamin walked up to talk with the Jamaican Sensation. Kofi offered a handshake but Shelton refused. Shelton asked Kofi about him being unbeaten. Kofi acknowledge his unbeaten streak. Shelton looked at him and said “That ends tonight”. We went to break.
Kofi Kingston ran to the ring as Mike Adamle talked about Ja maican me crazy. Sigh. The crowd showed their support of Kofi. The tone turned sour as Shelton Benjamin walked down the ramp.
Kofi Kingston d Shelton Benjamin
Shelton took Kofi to the mat by the Hair. Kofi kipped up and hit a huge Dropkick. Shelton grabbed a Headlock. Kofi sent Shelton to the ropes. Shelton caught Kofi and nailed a Shoulder Breaker. Shelton focised on the arm of Kofi. The crowd went wild for Kofi.
Shelton hit a knee. Kofi went to the ropes and hit a Crossbody. Shelton hit a Flying Arm Bar.Shelton threw Kofi to the ropes. Kofi hung on and flipped Shelton over the ropes. Shelton hit a reverse Hot Shot on Kofi. Shelton climbed the ropes and launched. Kofi hit a Dropkick on Shelton, on the way down!
Shelton recovered and locked in a vicious Arm Bar. Shelton fliipped Kofi around by the arm. Shelton Freight Trained the Jamaican. Kofi ducked a Fore-arm by Shelton and nailed the Trouble in Paradise (Buzzsaw Enziguri) out of nowhere to take the win. That sudden ending screams an injury.
Grade: A- (It would have been higher if not for the sudden ending)
We saw that absolutely ridiculous match with Lexie Fyfe playing Hillary Clinton. The best thing about the whole stupid thing was when Umaga came out and destroyed both of them.
Mark Henry d Nunzio
We didn’t get any kind of introductions for this match. Mark Henry just went after Nunzio from the get-go. Mark Henry hit a Headbutt on Nunzio. Henry stomped on Nunzio. Henry tossed Nunzio into the corner. Henry threw a straight fist and then bounced Nunzio off the corner turnbuckle, several times. Nunzio was set of the top turnbuckle. Nunzio jumped off and got caught in a Bear Hug. Mark Henry finished things up with The World’s Strongest Slam.
Grade: D
We saw a grinning Kane in the back. He was set to talk with Edge, next.
We saw another look at the European tour. Our dearest friends in the world live in Leeds, England. I raise my glass of tea to Lady Jane and Ray.
Edge made his way to the ring with his posse, the Edgeheads, in tow. I liked Ryder and Hawkins better when they were the Major Brothers. At least they wrestled. Edge shook hands with Ryder and Hawkins.
Edge told the home audience that they weren’t on the wrong channel. Edge had brought The Cutting Edge to ECW. He talked about beating Kane, last night. Edge then introduced the ECW champ. The fires exploded us Kane entered the ring. He set off the corner post pyros. Kane picked up his mic and stared at the Rated R Superstar.
Edge started talking about “family” in the industry. Edge talked about the Brothers of Destruction. Edge cringed as he talked about Undertaker being the World Champion. Edge talked about the fact that Kane’s parents must be proud. Kane growled “My parents are dead and if you mention it again, you may be too”. Edge gave a quick history lesson about Kane’s relationship with his brother. He talked about Lita leaving Kane for Edge. He also brushed by the whole Katie Vick thing, too. Edge talked about how Kane has been intertwined in Edge’s life. Edge talked about how he was going to marry Lita and Kane spoiled it. He also talked about how Kane injured Edge and cost him the World title. Edge then thanked Kane for the injury because it brought him together with Vickie. Edge went on a bizarre rant about Chavo being his nephew and Ryder/Hawkins being sons to him and Vickie. Ok.
Edge stopped and told Kane that La Familia would be reclaiming their “family heirlooms” (the ECW and World championships). Kane threatened Bam Neely that if he got near him, Kane would destroy him. “After Backlash, the only remaining member of your family would be your fiance, Vickie Guerrero, all by herself. Don’t worry, me and my brother will take real, good care of her…I promise”. Edge and the Edgeheads attacked. Bam and Chavo jumped in, as well. It was a straight up mugging. They held Kane down. Edge handed a chair to Chavo for a Con-Chair-To to Kane’s knee. Chavo spent a long time taunting the ECW champ. Chavo whacked the leg oof Kane, over and over again. Kane screamed in pain. The crowd cut loose with a deafening “You Suck!” chant. Kane clutched his knee in agony. Bam grabbed the ankle of Kane. Chavo used the chair on the knee, one last time. The heels exited the ring, clutching a destroyed steel chair. Kane’s face was a mask of tortured pain. We faded to black as Kane stared at La Familia.
Final Grade: B-
Final Thoughts:
Well, ECW was a little easier to watch this week. Mike Adamle kept quiet for most of the night. As far as the action, it was mediocre, at best. Thankfully, the Cutting Edge was short. I really think that either Kofi or Shelton was injured during their match. With the way that Shelton worked on Kofi’s shoulder, I would put my money on a shoulder injury for Kofi.
We had to look back at the whole Clinton/Obama situation. Strangely, I had my head down, last night, when the “real” Obama started doing his political speech. I actually thought it was The Rock on the screen. All three looked really dumb throwing out all the wrestling catch phrases. McCain actually made me laugh. I waited for him to cut loose with a “Whooo”.
Well, Backlash is this Sunday. Kane may be working with a bum knee in his match. Surely, the writers aren’t going to give the title back to Chavo. I kind of expect the possibility of C.M. Punk vulturing the title away from Kane. Punk is due for a heel turn. I’ll have all my predictions for you, later in the week.
–Jay Shannon
JayofPWD@SBCGlobal.net
(4/23/08)
NWA Wisconsin (4/20) Recap:Fire in the Ring!
Standing room only, indeed. It was a very nice house
at Liquor Sweets in Milwaukee. Up by me in the
balcony, we had to re-arrange tables and chairs
(sorry, no ladders) to make room for all the kids that
wanted a night of ICW action…and they got it in
spades.
Michael Dakota (accompanied by NWA Midwest’s own Ed
Chuman) hits the ring, and we’re underway for Insane
Championship Wrestling’s 4/20 Classic! (Or, “Night Of
A Thousand Belts.” All kinds of gold displayed
tonight…makes you realize the scope of influence of
an NWA promotion.)
Sure was a little hazy, though.
MATCH 1: “Mr. Canada” JASON RILEY vs. BLAZING BENJAMIN
* Riley had himself a nice Toronto Maple Leafs
jersey…and that motherCanuckin’ maple leaf flag.
* Benjamin wins by setting up Riley for a Death Valley
Driver, but spinning it into a neckbreaker and pinning
Riley.
* Then, Corporal Robinson (with 3 belts: Juggalo
Championsh*t Wrestling heavyweight, NWA Midwest tag,
and another one I don’t know) hits the ring to
congratulate Benjamin and call out his tag team
partner (and fellow NWA Midwest tag champ) Hardcore
Craig. Each wants to know where the other’s been;
Chuman takes the opportunity of having ‘em both in the
same building to book a title defense against a
debuting tag team: Venom and Krush (formerly
SkullCrusher), The SkullCrushers.
MATCH 2: THE SKULLCRUSHERS vs. CORPORAL ROBINSON &
HARDCORE CRAIG (c) (NWA Midwest Tag Team Championship)
* Hardcore Craig turned on his partner and hit him
with an NWA Midwest tag title belt, and Venom gets the
pin.
* NEW NWA Midwest Tag Team champions: The
SkullCrushers.
MATCH 3: TROY WALTERS vs. “The Impact Bully” BRANDON
THOMACELLI (sp?) (C) (Elite Pro Television
Championship)
* The Elite Pro TV title looks a lot like the old NWA
TV title belt…good to see.
* This match featured the first kickout of this year’s
4/20 classic, weirdly enough.
* Thomacelli wins with a PAIR of powerbombs into
inverse backbreakers. Impressive.
MATCH 4: “Pink Cadillac” NICK COLLUCI vs. CORPORAL
ROBINSON (w/ 2 Tuff Tony & Cousin Cletus) (Loser must
dress like the other next show)
* Understandably upset at what happened with his
now-ex-partner earlier on, Robinson brought out Cletus
and Tony to watch both entrances.
* Robinson absolutely PUNISHED Colluci on the outside
for several minutes before the bell even rang to start
the contest.
* Robinson wins with a sleeper-type hold into a leg
sweep. Now Colluci must dress like a juggalo at ICW’s
May event.
MATCH 5: JAYSON CA$H (w/ Val Malone) vs. THOMAS WALTON
III (w/ Derek St. Holmes, Esq.)
* Seeing TW3 come out to Wayne Newton’s “Danke Schoen”
(from “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” for you newbies) was
very amusing…but not as much as his “golfer”
schtick. Sweater vest, plaid-print chinos, and teeing
off in the center of the ring, then admiring his drive
and holstering his club a’la the Chicago White Sox
heel hitter from Major League 2. But I digress…
* Some nice outside action, with TW3 whipping out a
top-rope cross-body onto Ca$h on the outside.
* Derek St. Holmes proves his intellect yet again. He
chases Malone acting like he’s gonna slap her; she
runs up onto the apron for safety. Ca$h wants to know
why she’s up there; while the ref gets her down,
Holmes slides TW3 the TOME OF KNOWLEDGE….OF DOOM.
TW3 clocks Ca$h with the book for the pin.
* After the match, an irate Ca$h fires Malone, grabs a
nearby ICW staffer, and delivers 2 double-handed
sitout chokeslams. Uncalled for!
MATCH 6: THE McCOYS (w/ Val Malone) vs. DYSFUNCTION &
BOBBY V. vs. KEEPIN’ IT GANGSTA (Elimination Match for
ICW Tag Team Championship)
* Mickey McCoy, despite not being the legal man,
eliminated KIG by pinning TC Washington, aided by a
fistful of tights.
* Dys and Bobby somehow got Val in the ring, and
invited an unknown (to me) friend of theirs. Both
McCoys and Val were all put in identical figure-4s;
and submitted.
* NEW ICW TAG TEAM CHAMPS: Dysfunction & Bobby V.
MATCH 7: “Tattooed” MARK PRIEBE vs. JASON HADES vs.
“Psycho Shooter” DRAKE YOUNGER vs. KRUSH vs. CHRIS
HERO (5-way elimination match) * Hades had some sort
of IWA championshp; I couldn’t identify the belt Drake
Younger wore.
* Hades eliminated Priebe with a running back bodydrop
(the Vaporizer?)
* Krush eliminated Hades with a spinning variant of a
DVD.
* Younger eliminated Krush…but I forget how.
* Down to Hero vs. Younger…Hero gets him with a
spinning arm into an inside cradle for the pin; they
hugged afterwards. Younger grabbed the mic to tell the
crowd what a good guy Hero is, and to buy his
merch…and that took us to intermission.
MATCH 8: MACE MORGAN & THE JACKAL vs. “K-Train” KODY
RICE & “The Featherweight of the Future” JASON DUKES
* The Jackal brought his ICW Cruiserweight title;
Dukes trumped that with his NWA Midwest X-Division
belt.
* Kody spinebustered Mace, followed up by a top-rope
moonsault by Dukes for the pin.
MATCH 9: SILAS YOUNG vs. EGO FANTASTICO (Special guest
referee: AUSTIN ARIES)
* Pre-match, Silas grabbed the mic and cut on Aries
for being here as a ref, and on the music guy…c’mon,
now!
* VERY energetic match…Ego wins with what I’ll call
a muscle-buster. (If I’m wrong, lemme know!)
MATCH 10: THE NINJA VS. RYAN ROGUE (w/ Gina
Mattalata?) (sp?)
* The Liquor Sweets crowd went GAGA for Ryan Rogue.
* The Ninja went for a top-rope move, but Gina shoved
him down to the canvas. Ninja grabbed her and put her
on the apron, and she slapped him good. Rogue used the
opening to hit a sitout powerslam and win.
MATCH 11: MASON QUINN VS. “Simply Amazing” JUSTIN
DREDD (ICW Midwest & Heavyweight Championships)
* Best 2-outta-3 falls: 1st fall is First Blood, 2nd
fall is submission, 3rd (if necessary) fall is KO.
* Dredd brought both belts, but Quinn didn’t have his
NWA Wisconsin heavyweight title belt with him.
* 1st fall: Quinn jumping DDT’s Dredd onto a steel
chair; Dredd busted open.
* 2nd fall: After a lot of energetic attacks, Dredd
catches Quinn with a crossface; Quinn taps.
* 3rd fall: Dredd went for a top-rope springboard
move, but Quinn intercepted him with a vicious
clothesline. Both men struggling, but Dredd failed to
answer the 10-count.
* NEW ICW MIDWEST AND HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMP: Mason Quinn.
* Post-match, Quinn grabbed the mic and said how much
getting back the ICW title meant to him…but that the
Midwest belt was nothing, and THREW IT DOWN. I can
only assume the ICW Midwest championship is now
vacant.
MATCH 12 (MAIN EVENT): HARDCORE CRAIG vs. 2 TUFF TONY
(w/ Cousin Cletus) (Special Enforcer: ADRIAN SERRANO!)
* Serrano was a nice surprise for the main event. He
came out to his old “shoot World order” music. How ya
like that?)
* This fight went outside the ring quickly, with one
moment where a dazed Craig was seated up against the
wall, and Tony threw his body at him like a battering
ram!
* Craig responded by DVD’ing Tony through a pair of
steel chairs.
* At least 3 chairs and somebody’s belt were used in
this match; both men were bloody messes halfway
through.
* It looked like Tony had the match won with another
muscle-buster when “Pink Cadillac” NICK COLLUCI ran in
to attack. Serrano grabbed Colluci’s arm and twisted
the hell out of it, culminating in a top-rope
armdrag/legdrop combo! Incredible move from the NWA
and MMA legend!
* Tony brought out THUMBTACKS, and top-rope
superplexed Craig into the silvery pile of doom.
* Both men ended up in the tacks numerous times.
* At one point, Craig and the referee got into it. The
ref got uranage’d into the tacks and hit with a
chair…at which point Serrano took over as referee.
* Cousin Cletus poured high-proof booze onto Tony’s
right hand…and he lit it! FIRE PUNCH! That did Craig
in.
* After the match, Colluci, The Ninja, and Jason Riley
attacked Tony…only to be driven off by Corporal
Robinson and “The Weedman!” The Ninja paid heavily for
the sneak attack, ending up in the thumbtacks at least
twice.
* Tony, who hadn’t been to Milwaukee in 6 years,
closed the show by thanking the ICW fans for coming,
and everybody drank.
3 title changes and a long list of action in an
intimate venue that saw several brawls spill right out
into the crowd? Now THAT’S entertainment. Helluva show
by Insane Championship Wrestling.
– The NWA Wisconsin HQ Staff
(4/21/08)
NWA East/PWX (4/19): Chaos Reigns!
The night began on a high note and a low note. First
off, the manager of the Franchise Players, JC Slick
made his way to the ring with a very apparent change
in attitude. He announced that he was appointed to an
empty spot in the NWA East Championship Committee, and
that he wanted to be very fan-friendly. But he had the
unfortunate duty of informing the fans that NWA
Upstate talent Brodie Lee, Hellcat, and Jimmy Olsen
would be unable to appear, with the NWA Upstate
contingent giving no reason.
He informed everybody
that the card needed to be slightly revamped due to
the no-shows. The main event would be chosen by the
fans, as they would vote for who would take on Scottie
Gash and Chris LeRusso!
This drew out the Franchise Players, who saw their
friend’s newly-found place of power as a bargaining
tactic, attempting to get an NWA North American Title
shot. But Slick told them he wouldn’t do them any
favors, and they promptly fired him.
“Syko” Sean Dahmer eliminated NWA East Three Rivers
Champion Dash Bennett in the Burgh Brawl battle royal
and earned himself a shot at the title as a result.
But he was attacked after being eliminated himself by
members of Team Bennett, Dash, Stacy Hunter, and
Bulldozer.
Those members of Team Bennett accompanied
Dash in the title defense, while Dahmer’s Straight
Jacket Mafia partner Apollyon was in his corner. The
match went well enough, with both men having an even
advantage. But with outside shenanigans as Team
Bennett and SJM brawled around, referee Cowboy Bill
Wright ruled the match a no-contest and turned it into
a tag team match.
Team Bennett focused on Dahmer’s arm, bruising it
severely throughout the course of the match. But he
finally got himself a breather, tagging in the fresher
Apollyon. But the smaller Apollyon got taken out by
the much larger Bulldozer, taking a huge cannonball in
the corner.
Dahmer came back in and had Dash up for
the Syko Driver 07 when Team Bennett member Bobby
Shields appeared at ringside, distracting the referee.
This allowed Stacy Hunter to slip in unseen,
delivering a low blow to Dahmer. Dash hit the Skull
Splitter for the win. Team Bennett attacked SJM, and
it took James Ross hitting the ring with a chair to
fend them off.
Afterwards, Dahmer issued a challenge
to Dash for a rematch at May 3rd’s In Harm’s Way 2,
where both members of SJM would get a title shot if
they won. Dash responded, accepting only with the
stipulation that if Team Bennett wins, the Straight
Jacket Mafia will split up! Also, James Ross
challenged Bobby Shields to a match… later that
night!
While Sterling James Keenan was across the pond in
England, two of his trainees had big matches in NWA
East. “The Legacy” Samuel Elias took on Patrick Hayes.
Hayes was obviously distracted by members of the crowd
when Elias was able to roll him up for a big win. But
this was not the last we’d hear from Hayes that night.
The Franchise Players were able to somehow weasel
themselves into an NWA East Tag Team Title match with
Iron Justice. They seemed to be more focused in this
match than any previous effort of theirs. They had the
champs down and out, but Gregory Iron was able to
execute his Handicapped Parking finisher along with a
Matthew Justice springboard dropkick to score the win
and retain the titles.
As a result of the chaotic tag team match that opened
the night, “Division 1″ James Ross took on Team
Bennett member Bobby Shields. The crowd was solidly
behind the hometown boy Ross, who picked up the
victory with a Red & Blue Scare.
After months of being attacked, called out, and
threatened, Pepper Parks was set to defend his NWA
National Heavyweight Title against his tormentor,
Crusher Hansen. Before the match, Hansen’s manager &
NWA East ring announcer BC Steele announced the match
as a 2 out of 3 falls match, old-school NWA style.
Parks quickly picked up the win with a Pepper Shaker.
But Steele helped Hansen win the second fall with a
steel chain after Hansen accidentally took out referee
Tom Dunn. In the final fall, Parks went for the Pepper
Shaker again but Crusher caught him coming off the top
and delivered a Crusher Slam, winning the NWA National
Title and picking up possibly the biggest win of his
storied career.
Kid Cupid answered the NWA’s open challenge to take on
the Wrong Crowd. This was his first assignment as a
manager, and he picked a young team to take on Curtis
Stevenson’s team: another SJK trainee, Ashton Amhurst,
and coming wrestler from the Cleveland area, Bobby
Beverly. The young men were answering the NWA’s open
challenge. Unfortunately for them, their opponents
were the veteran NWA North American Tag Team Champions
the Wrong Crowd. Atlas & BA were able to dispose of
the young wrestlers with relative ease. But the real
story is after the match, when the Franchise Players
hit the ring and brawled with the North American Tag
Champs. The Franchise Players showed showed they are
willing to step up and answer the open challenge, and
Atlas & BA finally have some competition whether they
like it or not!
“The Spotlight” Scottie Gash was out for his match
against the fans’ choice. If he won and LeRusso lost,
he would get LeRusso’s Burgh Brawl title shot. He was
informed he had 2 opponents that evening. The first
was somebody from Gash’s past who has a huge win over
the former NWA East Heavyweight Champion… weighing
in at 112 kilos… from the Soviet Union…
There’s more to come. Just click to continue:
Read more
Ind. Wrestling Fed. (4/19) Recap: Reckless Abandon (Day 2)
We’ve got the details from the Day Two card of the 11th annual Reckless Abandon Weekend!
Independent Wrestling Federation
11th Annual Anniversary Reckless Abandon Weekend (Day 2)
Sunday, April 20, 2008 @ IWF Centre, West Paterson, NJ
1. Franciz defeated Playboy Vik Voorhees.
2. Justin Corino defeated IWF Junior Heavyweight Champion Antonio Rivera in a non-title match.
3. Jana defeated Joanna in a Women’s Match.
4. IWF American Champion Kevin Knight defeated Chris Steeler to retain the title.
5. Dan Marques defeated Jason Roberts.
6. IWF Heavyweight Champion Travis Blake defeated Tony Torres in a Best 2/3 Falls Match.
7. WWE Legend Honky Tonk Man & IWF Tag Team Champions Biggie Biggs & Mike Jenkins defeated Frank Scoleri & Bryan Harley & Evan Schwartz in a Six-Man Tag Team Match.
Independent Wrestling Federation
11th Annual Anniversary Reckless Abandon Weekend (Day 1)
Friday, April 18, 2008 @ IWF Centre, West Paterson, NJ
1. IWF Junior Heavyweight Champion Antonio Rivera defeated Evan Schwartz to retain the title.
2. Tony Torres defeated Dan Marques. Afterwards, Torres was attacked by IWF Champion Travis Blake.
3. Jana defeated Jennifer in a Women’s Match.
4. IWF Tag Team Champion Biggie Biggs defeated Frank Scoleri in a No Disqualification Match.
5. Kareem West defeated Matt Saxon.
6. IWF Tag Team Champion Mike Jenkins defeated Bryan Harley.
7. WWE Legend Honky Tonk Man & IWF American Champion Kevin Knight defeated IWF Champion Travis Blake & Franciz & Chris Steeler w/ Rich Ross in a Handicap Tag Team Match.
– The IWF Headquarters Staff
(4/21/08)
Ind. Wrestling Fed (4/18): Reckless Abandon (Day 1)!
The first day of the 11th annual Reckless Abandon Weekend in the pro wrestling history. Find out all about the it — right from the official source!
Independent Wrestling Federation
11th Annual Anniversary Reckless Abandon Weekend (Day 1)
Friday, April 18, 2008
IWF Centre, West Paterson, NJ
1. IWF Junior Heavyweight Champion Antonio Rivera defeated Evan Schwartz to retain the title.
2. Tony Torres defeated Dan Marques. Afterwards, Torres was attacked by IWF Champion Travis Blake.
3. Jana defeated Jennifer in a Women’s Match.
4. IWF Tag Team Champion Biggie Biggs defeated Frank Scoleri in a No Disqualification Match.
5. Kareem West defeated Matt Saxon.
6. IWF Tag Team Champion Mike Jenkins defeated Bryan Harley.
7. WWE Legend Honky Tonk Man & IWF American Champion Kevin Knight defeated IWF Champion Travis Blake & Franciz & Chris Steeler w/ Rich Ross.
=========================================================
UPCOMING EVENT:
Independent Wrestling Federation
Presents:
11th Annual Anniversary Live Event (Day 2)
Reckless Abandon Weekend
Featuring:
WWE Legend Honky Tonk Man
“The Greatest Intercontinental Champion of All-Time!”
This Sunday, April 20, 2008, 4:00 pm (Day 2)
@ IWF Centre, 32 Willow Way, West Paterson, NJ
Triple Main Event: Six-Man Tag Team Match
WWE Legend Honky Tonk Man and Biggie Biggs & Mike Jenkins (Tag Team Champions)
vs.
Frank Scoleri & Bryan Harley & Evan Schwartz
Triple Main Event: IWF Heavyweight Title Match…Best 2/3 Falls
Tony Torres vs. Travis Blake (IWF Champion) of The Ross Family
* Commissioner Rich Ross banned from ringside!
Triple Main Event: IWF American Title Match
Kevin Knight (Champion) vs. Chris Steeler
Non-Title Match:
Antonio Rivera (Junior Champion) vs. Justin Corino
Battle of the Behemoths: Over 700-Pounds in the Ring!
Playboy Vik Voorhees vs. Franciz of The Ross Family
Women’s Match:
Joanna w/ Miss Kristina vs. Jana
Jason Roberts vs. Dan Marques
And: Matt Bennett, BPA Barry & more.
* Special Autograph & Photo Session with Honky Tonk Man!
* VIP Front Row Ticket: Includes private post-event wrestler meet-n-greet with Honky Tonk Man!
– The IWF Headquarters Staff
(4/19/08)