WCW in '99- Fixing a Hole (repost)

[Commander Sheepard]

Thursday, January 28th, 3 days before Genesis:

Thunder!

*As we begin another edition of Thunder, a video is shown detailing the matches on the card for Genesis. Each match is given the full treatment, showing the participants and how they got to this point. It closes with a graphic reading:Genesis-WCW is Reborn this Sunday, only on Pay-Per-View!*

*With that, we go "live" to the arena, were 6024 screaming fans welcome us to tonights Thunder! We go to ringside with our hosts, Mike Tenay and "CLUBBERIN, CLUBBERIN, THEY BE CLUBBERIN if ya weeeeeelll" Dusty Rhodes. They discuss some of the events that will take place tonight, before throwing us to the ring for the first match*

**Buff Bagwell vs. Yoshohiro Tajiri**

The announcers explain that Bagwell requested this match to prove a point to Chris Daniels. Since Daniels first match in WCW was against Tajiri, Buff stated that he wanted to prove a point. And he does, as he dominates most of the match with some underhanded tactics, before reaching into his tights and nailing Tajiri with what appears to be a chain. He then covers for the three count.

*After the match, Bagwell appears to be about to lay some more damage on Tajiri, but he has to clear the ring as his opponent for Sunday, Chris Daniels comes running down to the ring*

(63/42/85; **)

**Buff is MAD**

Bagwell grabs a mic after leaving the ring, and tells Daniels that what he just saw was a taste of what he is gonna give to Daniels on Sunday. The fans seem to be behind Daniels, and Bagwell becomes disgusted, throwing the mic down and walking back up the aisle.

(76%)

Our fearless announcers discuss that match at Genesis, and heavily put over the fact that Chris Daniels has not been beaten since joining WCW. They question if Bagwell is the man, and advise us to order the PPV to find out. We then go backstage for an interview with THE MAN, Ric Flair!

**WHOOOOO is it gonna be at Genesis?**

In the back, Ric Flair has a mic, and wastes no time verbally laying into Bret Hart. He talks about respect, about tradition, about passion for the business, and says that Bret Hart has none of these things anymore. He tells Bret that no matter WHO he faces on Sunday, he's going to prove to Bret Hart and the world that Ric Flair is STILL the man. WHOOOOOOOO!

(95%; Ric Flair gained overness)

Tenay and Rhodes again put over the fact that we don't know who Ric Flair's opponent will be, but that Bret Hart is devious, so it's sure to be somebody very dangerous. Rhodes says that he has known Ric Flair for a long time, and that he knows that Flair can handle whoever Bret Hart has in store for him. They then introduce the next match, which they dub a "warm-up" match for the tag team champions, Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko. They will be taking on the men they defeated for the titles in Ric Steiner and Kenny Kaos.

**Chris Benoit/Dean Malenko vs. Kenny Kaos/Rick Steiner**

As the teams make their way to ringside, Tenay reminds us that this is a non-title match. He also brings up the problems Rick Steiner and Kenny Kaos have been having lately. Those problems continue into this match as well, as Benoit and Malenko control from the opening bell, not allowing Steiner and Kaos to get any kind of advantage. The end comes when Malenko locks Steiner into the Texas Cloverleaf in the middle of the ring, leaving Steiner no choice but to tap out.

*Steiner and Kaos again get into it, with Steiner asking Kaos why he didn't try to make the save. Kaos tries to answer, but Steiner responds with a SLAP across his face and leaves the ring*

(67/57/78; **1/2)

**Arn tells it like it is**

As Benoit and Malenko make it to the stage, they are joined by Arn Anderson, who has a mic. He addresses The Triad, and informs them that at Genesis, nothing is gonna stop Benoit and Malenko from doing to them, what they just did to Kaos and Steiner. As usual Benoit and Malenko don't say a word, prompting Dusty to dub them the "Silent Assassins".

(71%)

**Hardcore Hype**

We are then shown a video showing more in-depth coverage of the events leading up to this Sunday's hardcore match for the Television Title. Scenes of Jericho using chairs and anything else he can find are interspersed with Booker T's speech from Nitro, challenging Jericho. The video ends with a shot of Jericho and Booker in the ring together, face to face, about to go at it, then closes with a graphic that simply says "Hardcore action. This Sunday".

(86%)

The announcers hype up that match even more, talking about how both men are great wrestlers, but that this isn't gonna be about wrestling, it's gonna be about pure fighting. Dusty, of course, is very excited about this in particular, and is about to start talking about his days competing in Bunkhouse matches, when the music hits for the next match, which is also the main event.

**Kidman/Rey Mysterio, Jr. vs. Eddie Guerrero/Chavo Guerrero, Jr.**

Tenay reminds us of the great tag match these two teams had a few weeks ago, and talks about how this is a great chance to see the three men involved in the cruiserweight title match on Sunday. He also informs the fans that the reason for the 3 way match is because Eric Bischoff wanted to give Rey the shot based on the tremendous matches he's been having, but that Eddie got to him first and convinced him to allow him into the match as well. The two teams put on a great show for the fans, with tons of high flying moves coming from every direction. Eventually, the match breaks down as tempers flare between the 3 men who are involved in the match. They are all fighting in the ring, and when the referee tried to separate them, he gets a push from Eddie and Kidman, leaving him no choice but to call for a Double DQ.

*The end of the match doesn't stop the fighting however, as all four men continue to battle in the ring while a host of road agents and other executives try to separate them*

(77/60/94; ***)

Tenay and Dusty talk about what we just witnessed and how exciting that match will be at Genesis. They inform us that before we go, we're going to take one last look at the main event for Genesis. Tenay hypes up the PPV heavily, reminding everyone of all of the matches that will take place. Rhodes also reminds everyone that if you miss this PPV, you're missing what could be one of the greatest nights in WCW history. Tenay agrees, and throws it to the closing video with one last reminder of how to order.

**Handicap-2 on 1- For the title shot**

The last thing we are shown is a video detailing in-depth the events of the past few months concerning Goldberg and Kevin Nash. We are shown from the end of last year all the way up to Nitro this past Monday, as images from Goldberg and Nash's last match flicker in and out. We see Scott Hall using the taser on Goldberg, and The Outsiders subsequent attacks on Goldberg. The last image is from this past Nitro, as Goldberg stands face to face, nose to nose with The Outsiders. The closing graphic reads: Goldberg. Nash. Hall. One time. This Sunday. Genesis. Don't miss it.

(74; Goldberg LOST OVERNESS! )

Overall: 75

[Commander Sheepard]

WCW.com, in conjunction with WCW: The Magazine has released the final card for WCW Genesis, live on Pay-Per-View, January 31st:

-Special Pre-PPV bonus match featuring Juventud Guerrera against Psicosis-

-Chris Daniels takes on Buff Bagwell in a special grudge match-

-Booker T defends his Television Title against Chris Jericho in a hardcore match-

-Ric Flair goes against a mystery opponent, determined by Bret Hart-

-Billy Kidman faces Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio, Jr. in a Cruiserweight Title match-

-Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko versus Triad members Diamond Dallas Page and Kanyon for the WCW Tag Team Titles-

And finally, the main event-

-The Outsiders Kevin Nash and Scott Hall versus Goldberg, with Goldbergs shot at the World Title on the line-

Remember to contact your local cable providers for information on how to order WCW Genesis. LIVE, this Sunday, the Rebirth of WCW continues, and it all happens at Genesis!

[Commander Sheepard]

Sunday, January 31st:

Genesis!

*As the crowd of 13254 people file into the arena, a continuous loop of video footage of the past few weeks of WCW play's, showing all the high AND lowlights. When the audience if in place, new ring announcer Scott Hudson introduces the special Pre-Pay-Per-View bonus match, featuring Juventud Guerrera versus Psicosis*

**Juventud Guerrera vs. Psicosis**

Both men make their out to the ring, and the crowd is very ready for some action. They begin the match slowly, feeling each other out, before going into a complex series of moves and counter moves, ending in a stand-off, which draws a series of applause from the crowd. They then go at it again, this time with Psicosis gaining the upper hand when he reverses a Juvi hurricanrana attempt into a big powerbomb. He continues the punishment with a whip into the corner, followed up by a big clothesline. Juvi slumps down into the corner, and Psicosis charges in with a dropkick right to the face. He covers, but only manages a 2 count. Juvi rolls out of the ring, but this doesn't prove to be a safe place for him, as Psicosis follows him out with a splash from the top rope. He rolls Juvi back into the ring, where he continues the punishment with a series of kicks and basic moves, including a pair of vicious snap suplexes. He makes a mistake however, when he tries to go to the top rope again, but takes too long and misses a twisting senton. Juvi regains his feet and starts laying in the chops to Psicosis' chest. He whips Psicosis into the ropes and catches him with a big cross heel kick. When Psicosis is able to stand back up, Juvi meets him with a boot to the stomach, followed up by a Juvi Driver. Juvi wants to make sure he finishes him off, so he goes up top to try for a big move. However, he also takes his time getting to the top, allowing Psicosis to be able to get to his feet and land a shot to Juvi's stomach. He tries for a superplex, but Juvi blocks and pushes him down to the mat. With Psicosis down, Juvi is able to finally nail his big move, the 450 Splash, while the referee counts the 1-2-3!

*After the match, Juvi helps Psicosis up to his feet, then extends his hand in a show of respect. After looking at it for a moment, Psicosis takes his hand and shakes. The crowd applauds this display of mutual respect*

(64/50/79; **)

*With the pre-show finished, Scott Hudson announces that the Pay-Per-View begins, NOW!*

*The PPV music hits loud and the crowd EXPLODES as they are ready to see all the rest of the great action that they're in store for tonight. We join our announcers for the PPV, Mike Tenay and Dave Meltzer*

Mike Tenay: Good evening everybody, and WELCOME to the first pay-per-view of the new WCW era, welcome to GENESIS! With me tonight is Dave Meltzer. Dave, I haven't been this excited about a pay-per-view in a long time.

Dave Meltzer: I'm with you on that one Tenay. We have a great line-up of matches for you this evening fans. A lot of bad blood between a lot of people will hopefully get settled here tonight.

MT: Fans, you don't need me to remind you of what to expect. You ordered this pay-per-view because you're just as excited about seeing these men in action as we are. Our first match of the evening features a young man who is making his pay-per-view debut tonight, as Chris Daniels takes on Buff Bagwell.

DM: I can't wait to see how Daniels handles the pressure of competing on the biggest stage of his career.

MT: All the talk is over for Chris Daniels and Buff Bagwell now, as we're ready to OFFICIALLY begin Genesis! Let's go to the ring.

**Chris Daniels vs. Buff Bagwell**

Daniels makes his way to the ring to a decent sized reaction, with the fans becoming more and more familiar with him with each appearance. Bagwell does not receive as positive a reaction, and this seems to bother him. When he reaches the ring, he doesn't even wait for the bell, but immediately jumps Daniels, who has his back turned. Buff beats him down with punches and stomps, adding in some chokes and a foot to the throat for good measure. Buff tries to whip Daniels into the ropes, but ducks his head and almost gets caught with a Double Underhook Powerbomb for a quick loss. He backdrops out of it however, and takes over again with more choking. When he turns to the referee, who was trying to pry him off, Daniels is able to get back to his feet, and nails Bagwell with a dropkick right to the chin. Daniels goes on offense, hitting Bagwell form all directions, including a big twisting springboard splash from the second rope. Daniels can't hold him down, but maintains his advantage with a backdrop suplex. He goes up top, and hits Buff again with a splash. As they land, Buff shifts his weight and rolls over on top of Daniels, almost holding him down for the 3 count. Daniels kicks out, which seems to frustrate Buff. He starts to go crazy on Daniels with more stomps, before throwing him outside the ring. When Buff tries to go outside, the ref stops him, and goes out to check on Daniels. Buff seizes the moment to reach into his boot and pull out a length of chain, which he wraps around his fist. When Daniels staggers back into the ring, Buff nails him in the chin with the chain-wrapped fist, knocking him flat out. Buff covers, and the referee has no choice but the count the 3, making Bagwell the victor.

*Bagwell doesn't wait around for the ref or Daniels to see the chain, and instead sprints back up the aisle, pausing only long enough to "celebrate" with the crowd.*

(75/68/82; **3/4)

MT: What a cheap way for Daniels to lose his first match. It took a chain for Buff Bagwell to gain the victory. I hope he's happy with himself.

DM: Knowing Buff Bagwell, he probably is, Tenay. But one thing you have to say for Bagwell, he certainly knows how to take advantage of a situation. Speaking of taking advantage of a situation, it's time to see if DDP and Kanyon can take advantage of their opportunity to win the Tag Team Titles.

MT: This should be a great match, Dave. Let's see if Benoit and Malenko can hold on, or if we have new champs to look forward to.

**Chris Benoit/Dean Malenko vs. DDP/Kanyon; WCW Tag Team Title match**

The Triad makes it way out to a chorus of boos from the crowd, while the tag champs enjoy a much better reaction. The match begins with all four men in the ring, brawling back and forth. Benoit and Malenko manage to clear the ring by clotheslining their opponents over the top rope. After things settle down, the match proper begins. Benoit squares off with Kanyon, and the two show off some technical wrestling for the opening minutes of the match, wowing the crowd with their back and forth moves. Kanyon takes over with a poke to the eyes, and immediately tags in DDP. He comes in and uses his brawling skills to keep Benoit down, including ramming his head into the turnbuckle several times. When he tries to whip Benoit into the ropes, Benoit is able to reverse and takes him over with a huge backdrop. He tags Malenko in, then takes DDP down with a drop toehold. While Benoit holds him, Malenko uses a sliding dropkick to knock DDP goofy (goofier anyway). He continues to control the match with some mat wrestling, including a combination move where he takes a dragon screw legwhip and turns it into a cross legbreaker. Kanyon breaks up the hold with a boot, and when Malenko goes to knock him off the apron, DDP is able to get to his feet and nail him from behind with a low blow. He then tags Kanyon back in, and the two stomp away on Malenko, doubleteaming him on the canvas. They continue their dominance with a series of high impact moves, including a swinging fisherman's neckbreaker from Kanyon. He only manages a two count, and quickly tags DDP back in. Page resorts to choking in the corner to maintain his advantage, but also uses a big spinning clothesline to knock Malenko down. The fast tags and double teams continue as DDP and Kanyon keep Malenko cut off in their corner, not enabling him to reach his partner. They almost get the victory when DDP uses an inverted atomic drop , and turns Malenko around into a Kanyon I'm Betta Than You. Benoit breaks up the pin, but the ref has to escort him back out, allowing DDP and Kanyon and easy chance to double team even more. The momentum swings however, when Malenko ducks a clothesline and catches Kanyon with one of his own. This puts Kanyon down long enough for Malenko to make the tag, just as Kanyon tags in DDP. Benoit goes crazy with chops and kicks to both men, and almost takes Kanyons head off with a huge clothesline of his own. Malenko goes after Kanyon on the outside, leaving Benoit and DDP in the ring alone. With Page disoriented, he's easy pickings for Benoit to take him down with a set of Rolling German Suplexes. He gives the "slash the throat" signal, and goes up top, where he nails a Diving Headbutt that puts DDP down for the 1-2-3!

*Malenko rolls back into the ring, and the two men celebrate with the crowd. As the crowd expresses their appreciation for the two men, Kanyon rolls back into the ring, holding a chair. A shot to the back of both men put them down, where Kanyon delivers more chairshots. DDP adds in some shots of his own as he manages to get to his feet, and the two men walk off after making sure Benoit and Malenko are down and out*

(81/72/90; ***1/4; Tag Titles gained image)

MT: A great match there, ruined by The Triad's actions after the match.

DM: Benoit and Malenko showed that they truly deserve those Tag Titles, but The Triad also proved that they can hang with the best in the business. Their actions after the match may not have been the most sportsmanlike, but they were proving to the champs that they are NOT going to give up on the chase for the Tag Team Titles.

MT: Be that as it may, a great match for the Tag Titles. And we have another title match coming up next, as Kidman defends his cruiserweight title against Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio, Jr. Your pick for this match, Dave?

DM: This is a tough one, Tenay. All three men are great wrestlers, and it could go either way. I know one thing though. Eddie Guerrero wants to get his hands on both Billy Kidman AND that cruiserweight title.

MT: Let's see if he can GET his hands on either one, now!

**Billy Kidman vs. Eddie Guerrero vs. Rey Mysterio, Jr. ; Cruiserweight Title match**

All three men make their way to ringside to varied reactions, and the match is soon underway. At first, all three takes turns exchanging moves on each other, with no one being singled out. Soon however, Kidman is knocked out of the ring by a Mysterio dropkick, leaving him and Eddie alone inside the ring. Eddie uses his slight size advantage to take Rey down with some actual power moves, including a nice snapped powerslam. Kidman breaks up the pin by slingshotting back into the ring with a legdrop, them attempts his own cover on Eddie. Rey breaks THIS pin attempt up by grabbing Kidman's arm and rolling him into a pin with La Magistral. Kidman kicks out, and him and Rey start to go at it, exchanging blows back and forth. Eddie scoots over to a corner out of the way, content to let them two men duke it out. Kidman sends Rey into the ropes and tries a hiptoss, but Rey lands on his feet. He keeps his hold on Kidmans arm and runs up the ropes, where he springs off into a hurricanrana, which almost gets him the 3 count. Eddie breaks it up however, then does his OWN version of the same move, snapping Rey into the hurricanrana. He can't hold him down, but still manages to keep him down long enough to attempt the same move on Kidman. Kidman manages to push him off the top rope however, sending Eddie down to the floor. He follows him out with a big pescado, getting major air-time before crashing into Eddie's chest. Both men lay on the floor, temporarily out. This give Rey a chance to recover and he flies over the ropes with his OWN move, this one a suicidal springboard senton that lands on both men on the FLOOR! All three are now down and out on the outside, and the referee has no choice but to start a count. Kidman is the first to reach his feet, followed by Rey. Kidman tries to throw Rey into the barrier separating the ring from the crowd, but Rey jumps up onto it, then twists off into another rana that puts Kidman back down on the floor. By this time, Eddie has gotten back to his feet, and he catches Rey with a chop, then throws him back inside. He uses the ropes to give himself momentum for a slingshot senton back into the ring, but only gets a 2 count on the cover. He picks Mysterio back up, only to drop him again with a big Brainbuster. Again it's not enough, and Eddie gets frustrated, leaving him wide open for a recovered Kidman to come off the top rope with a big crossbody, which again results in a near 3 count. As Rey stands back to his feet, he runs and tries another Rana on Kidman, but YOU CAN'T POWERBOMB...err, RANA Kidman, and he reverses into a powerbomb that puts Rey down. With Eddie still out, Kidman has the chance to ascend the turnbuckle and come off with a picture perfect Shooting Star Press. Eddie desperately tries to stop the count, and is able to do so by hitting Kidman with a sliding dropkick that puts him right back outside on the floor. With Kidman now down, and Rey knocked out, Eddie seizes the chance, and rolls Rey up, grabbing a handful of tights as WELL as putting his feet on the rope to gain the cheap victory and the title!

*Eddie doesn't even wait for the referee to raise his hand, instead grabbing his belt and leaving through the crowd, looking behind him for signs of pursuit. All Kidman can do is stand in the ring and stare after him, before pounding the canvas in frustration and anger*

(76/61/91; ***; Cruiserweight Title gained image)

DM: What a match that was fans. That's some of the best cruiserweight action that's you're going to find any place, bar none.

MT: Well, I have to agree it was a sensational match, Dave, although I'm not happy about the WAY Eddie Guerrero won the title. But nevertheless, he IS the new cruiserweight champion. You just know that Kidman has to be beside himself right now, as he lost his title without getting pinned for it.

DM: That's the chance you take in those kinds of matches Tenay. Besides, I'm sure that Kidman will get his shot at Eddie's title. I just don't think that Eddie's going to be losing that title for a long, long time.

MT: Hmm, you may be right Dave. Well fans, next we have a match that will feature a distinct change in styles from what you just witnessed. You just saw some great high flying action. Well now it's time to see some great fighting. The Television Title is on of the most prestigious titles in the business, and it's on the line next, in a hardcore match of all things.

DM: All I have to say is that the champion Booker T better be on his guard, because the challenger, Chris Jericho, has proven that he's VERY comfortable using weapons.

MT: This should be a bloodbath fans, no doubt. Let's go back to the ring.

**Booker T vs. Chris Jericho; Hardcore match for the Television Title**

The boo's that accompany Chris Jericho to the ring don't seem to faze the young man, who seems exceptionally focused tonight. The same can also be said for the champion, Booker T, as he enters to the entire arena "raising the roof" in time to his music. As this is a hardcore match, with no rules, Jericho doesn't wait for the bell, instead attacking Booker T as he comes through the ropes. Jericho pounds on Booker, chopping and punching him in a frenzy. booker responds with his own chops and punches, before putting Jericho down with a big spinning kick. He finally manages to get his belt off, but uses it to deliver a shot to Jericho's head before handing it to the ref. Booker covers, but the ref only gets a 1 count before Jericho kicks out. Booker continues to press his advantage, using his brawling skills to keep Jericho unbalanced. Booker knocks him outside the ring, which proves to be a mistake, as Jericho can get to a chair, which he drives into Booker's stomach. He then proceeds to use the chair on Booker's back and chest, knocking him down repeatedly. He then throws Booker into the guardrail, putting him down once again. Jericho then uses some basic moves, performed on the concrete floor for more impact, including a big suplex that appears to seriously injure Booker T. Jericho does not attempt a cover, but instead grabs another chair, putting one underneath Bookers head, then using the other to try to squash Booker between the two. Booker rolls out of the way just in time, and is soon back on his feet. He uses another spinning kick which puts the chair right back into Jericho's face to take control back. However, he is too hurt to really press the advantage, and Jericho is able to roll back into the ring. He meets Booker with a diving forearm to the back, then tries for a Lionsault, but Booker gets his knees up to block. Booker slides back outside long enough to grab another chair, then cracks Jericho in the head when he rises. Booker covers, but can only get a 2 count before Jericho kicks out. Booker picks him up, before putting him back down with a sidewalk slam. He then leaves the ring again, but this time he comes back with a table. The crowd starts to buzz as they anticipate what could happen next. Booker sets the table up in the middle of the ring, but takes too long doing so, which allows Jericho to nail him with a dropkick. Jericho grabs the chair again, and catches Booker right on the top of the head. As the camera focuses in on Booker, we see that Booker has been busted open, which apparently gives Jericho incentive for even more violence. He continues to use the chair again and again on Booker, before suddenly stopping. He seems to have an idea, and in fact, does. He picks Booker up, then drags him over into the corner. He places him up on the top rope, then points to the table in the middle of the ring The crowd is on their feet, expecting Booker to go through the table. Booker has other ideas however, and fights Jericho off, pushing him to the mat. He comes off the second rope when Jericho stands back up, and catches him with a sidekick which cause Jericho to slump over on the table. Booker then decides to put the table to good use. He ascends to the top rope himself, then launches himself onto Jericho and the table with a Harlem Hangover which pops the crowd big-time. This is not enough for Booker though, and he decides to finish Jericho off for good. He places a chair under Jericho, then waits for him to rise again. He then bounces off the ropes with a huge Axe Kick, attempting to drive Jericho's head down into the chair at full speed. Jericho moves out of the way however, and Booker lands hard on his back, on the chair. Jericho bounces off the ropes himself, landing on Booker hard with a Lionsault. He then covers, and Booker cannot raise his shoulder in time to avoid the 1-2-3!

*Despite his win, Jericho doesn't appear satisfied, and grabs the chair again, beating Booker down with it. He bloodies Booker even more before throwing down the chair, and leaving to huge boo's from the crowd*

(92/91/94; ****1/4 ; Television Title gained image)

MT: What a sensational match that was! One of the most brutal matches I've ever been a witness to Dave.

DM: You're right there, Tenay. Neither man can be ashamed of their effort, but in the end, Jericho managed to pull out a little bit more and gain the pinfall. He also managed to leave Booker T a bloody mess.

MT: That he did Dave, that he did. Now fans, our next match-up, well, I don't know what to say about it. Ric Flair has been trying for the past month to get Bret Hart to agree to a match with him, but Bret has been showing nothing but disrespect to "The Nature Boy". He DID finally agree to give Ric Flair a chance to "prove himself", by wrestling a match against an unknown opponent. I personally don't agree with his tactics, but Flair agreed to the match. But who's his opponent going to be?

DM: Your guess is as good as mine, Tenay. The only way to find out, is to go to the ring now.

**Ric Flair vs. ???**

Flair makes his way to the ring first to a huge reaction from the audience. He waits in the ring, as the audience buzzes about who his opponent is going to be. Suddenly, some familiar music hits, and out comes...Scott Steiner! Flair has no visible reaction, although the crowd explodes at the match-up they are about to witness. Unfortunately for them, and for Flair, Steiner is in a bad mood tonight, and jumps in the ring ready to fight. He uses his strength and size advantage to take the early advantage, alternating big punches and kicks with a variety of suplexes, including a T-bone suplex that almost puts Flair right on his head. Steiner talks to the crowd the entire time, taunting them as well as Ric Flair. He powers Flair into a press slam, using Flair as a dumbbell to show off this power to the crowd. Seeing that he is in control, Steiner slaps on the Steiner Recliner, but Flair is too close to the ropes, and Steiner must break the hold. As Steiner argues with the referee, Flair lives up to his reputation as the "Dirtiest Player in the Game" by giving Steiner a low blow that puts him down on the canvas. Then, WHOOO, it's time to go to school. Flair begins to work on the leg of Scott Steiner, using knee-breakers and stomps to the leg to soften him up. When Steiner tries to fight back, Flair starts chopping, leaving red welts on Steiner's chest. Flair clips Steiner, taking him down again, then slaps on the Figure Four Leglock, to the delight of the crowd. The delight soon turns to disgust however, as Bret Hart comes sauntering down the aisle. Flair breaks the hold when he sees Hart, and begs him to come into the ring so he can take him apart. This allows Steiner to nail his OWN low-blow on Flair and take him down again. The ref sees this and tries to admonish Steiner, but gets pushed down. Hart then grabs one of the chairs left over from the hardcore match and gestures to Steiner to hold Flair. The plan backfires though, as Flair moves out of the way at the last minute, and Steiner catches the chair in the head. Flair drops Hart with a right hand, then falls on top of Steiner as the ref revives. He sees Flair on top of Steiner, and counts the pinfall, giving Flair the victory!

*Enraged, Bret Hart jumps back into the ring with the chair, and uses it to brutalize Flair, hitting him with chairshot after chairshot, bloodying Flair. The crimson is flowing freely, when suddenly the crowd erupts again...*

(83/89/70; ***1/4)

**It's SHOWTIME, folks!**

*The eruption comes from the fact that sprinting down the aisle is none other than STING. Hart clears out of the ring, as the ref helps Flair out of the ring. Steiner leaves as well, disgusted with the events that just took place. Sting grabs a mic and speaks..*

Sting: Bret Hart, you think you're tough with that chair? Huh? You think you're tough to beat the crap out of a man who just finished a match? Well guess what Hart? I've been watching what you've been putting Ric Flair through the past few weeks. And it makes me SICK. I've had to stand by and watch, because I had my own problems to deal with, but I'm not watching anymore. I want your ass, in the ring, for the title, RIGHT NOW! What do you say, "Hitman"?

*In response, Hart nods his head and slides into the ring, apparently accepting Sting's challenge*

(87%)

**Bret Hart vs. Sting; United States Title match**

The action begins fast and furious, with both men exchanging blows back and forth. Sting proves to be the better brawler of the two, and takes Hart down hard with a pair of clotheslines, followed up by a big dropkick that leaves Hart down and begging for mercy. Sting shows him none however, whipping him into the corner. He gets over anxious and tries for a Stinger Splash, which Hart is able to avoid. Bret takes over and slows the pace down with some technical moves, focusing closely on the knee of Sting even going so far as to wrap his leg around the ring post outside 3 times in a row. Hart re-enters the ring and begins with the "Five Moves of Doom", but Sting breaks them up by nailing Hart in the stomach when he tries the second rope elbowdrop. Sting again uses his strength to take Hart down with a big powerslam, followed by another whip and an even bigger backdrop. He covers, but can only get a 2 count. Sting tries to slip Hart into the Scorpion Deathlock, but Hart reaches the ropes before he can get it locked in. Sting breaks, but continues the assault by backing Hart into the corner and giving him the count along punches in the corner. Hart counters by giving him an inverted atomic drop out of the corner, followed up by a Russian legsweep. He then manages to catch him with the elbow drop out of the corner, and covers for 2. Hart goes back to the leg, and actually manages to put Sting in the Sharpshooter. Sting tries to fight out of it, but cannot break the hold. However, he does manage to pull himself closer to the ropes, and gets a hand out to grab the bottom rope. The ref doesn't see this, but Hart turns his head to see that Sting has grabbed the rope. He ignores this fact and pulls Sting further into the center of the ring. Sting tries again to fight out, but Hart leans back further, which puts even more pressure on Sting's back and legs. Sting will not quit, but in the end, he cannot stop himself from blacking out. When the referee sees that Sting is out, he quickly calls for the bell, giving Bret Hart the victory.

*Hart refuses to release the hold, keeping it on for at least another 2 minutes after the bell. Sting is still passed out, and can offer no resistance to Hart. Finally, Bret breaks the hold, grabs his belt, and leaves the ring, looking satisfied with all his actions tonight*

(87/90/81; **** ; US Title gained image)

DM: Now THAT'S what I call two pay-per-view quality matches. That whole sequence of events has obviously gotten the crowd excited, although they can't be too pleased with the results of that last match.

MT: No, they can't Dave. But I think that one positive thing DID come out of that whole Bret Hart fiasco. I think Ric Flair "proved" to Bret Hart that he can still get the job done in the ring. Maybe this will convince Bret to FINALLY grant Flair's request for a match.

DM: I don't know Tenay. After that last match, Ric Flair might should stay out of Bret Hart's way. Sting is just NOW getting to his feet and leaving the ring.

MT: You may be right Dave, but something tells me that Ric Flair isn't finished with Bret Hart yet. But now fans, the match I've personally been waiting for all evening. The Outsiders, Kevin Nash and Scott Hall have been causing problems for a lot of people lately. But one man has been bearing the brunt of their assaults. That man, is Goldberg. And tonight, in that ring, he gets a chance, not only for revenge, but for a chance to wrestle for the World Heavyweight Title. That match, is NOW!

**Handicap match: The Outsiders vs. Goldberg**

Goldberg enters the ring first, to a huge reaction from the crowd. The Outsiders soon follow, to an equally huge negative reaction. The entire crowd grows silent as Goldberg goes face to face with The Outsiders. This is the moment they've been waiting for. Goldberg dares either Nash or Hall to take the first show. Hall turns away as if he's about to leave, but spins around with a punch aimed at Goldberg. Goldberg blocks, and levels Hall with a right hand of his own. Nash tries to attack Goldberg, with similar results. Goldberg nails each man again and again with right hands, then levels them both with a clothesline. Nash stands up, with Hall right behind him. Goldberg rushes them and delivers a Spear to both men, knocking them out of the ring. The crowd explodes as The Outsiders re-group on the outside. They decide to try a more strategic approach, and re-enter the ring at separate points, managing to catch Goldberg from both sides and take him out. As the referee gets Nash out of the ring, Hall continues the assault, nailing Goldberg with right hand after right hand. He grabs Goldbergs hand and drives his shoulder repeatedly into Goldberg, taking him back down to the canvas. He stomps Goldberg several times, before tagging in Nash. Nash continues to pound away on Goldberg. He pushes him into the corner, delivering knees to Goldberg's mid-section, before following up with a big elbow. He then uses his foot to choke out Goldberg, only breaking when the referee threatens a DQ. Hall is tagged in again, and picks Goldberg up into a bodyslam position. He doesn't bodyslam him though, instead sending him back over his head in a fall-away slam. The cover is shrugged off after a 2 count, but Hall presses his advantage, delivering another fall-away slam, then yet ANOTHER fall-away slam. Again, Goldberg kicks out of the pin attempt at 2. Nash is tagged in again, and catches Goldberg with a big sideslam, before picking him up to deliver a Snake Eyes in the corner. Goldberg is down and obviously hurt, but keeps kicking out of every pin attempt. Nash and Hall grow frustrated, and begin double-teaming Goldberg with more punches and kicks, trying to wear him down and beat him. Their plan backfires on them when they try a double clothesline, which Goldberg ducks, and then delivers a big superkick to Nash, knocking him into the ropes. Hall then feels another Spear from Goldberg, and both The Outsiders are down. Nash gets up, but is soon put right back down by another huge Spear from Goldberg which knocks him through the ropes, all the way down to the floor. With the crowd roaring, Goldberg turns to Hall, waiting until he gets up, then grabbing him in a suplex position. As the crowd registers it's approval, Goldberg delivers not a suplex, but his patented Jackhammer, and covers Hall to gain not only the victory, but a chance to wrestle Kevin Nash for the World Heavyweight Title!

*As The Outsiders, stumble back up the aisle, Goldberg celebrates in the ring, soaking up the massive cheers from the crowd*

(78/83/68; ***)

MT: What an ending! What a match! And what a Pay-Per-View!

DM: You're right there, Tenay, this event more than lived up to it's promise! I can't wait to see what happens when Goldberg gets Kevin Nash one on one in the ring.

MT: Fans, all I can say is, WOW. What a night we've had this evening. But this is only the beginning for the new WCW. To see what happens next, tune into Nitro, tomorrow night. Good night everybody!

*As the PPV goes off the air, Goldberg is still in the ring, with the fans on their feet showing their support. The final shot is over Nash's shoulder as he watches Goldberg in the ring, making the "I want the belt" motion over and over and over...*

Overall: 82%

[Commander Sheepard]

Monday, February 1st:

*Hi, I'm Sophie. You know, Kris' assistant. He's with his family today(probably playing with his dog again, grr), so it's up to me to carry things on for right now. He asked me to send him an e-mail with the info from last nights PPV, and the past month. So here goes nothing, I guess*

Sophie's Email: Well, I got your message, and here's the info you requested. first off, let me say, I thought last night went VERY well. Everybody seemed to really be "on", and the crowd noticed. They were into just about every match in a big way, and it definitely made a difference. Booker T and Jericho stole the show, in my opinion, and I'm glad to see that you decided to continue that feud for a while. The cruisers also put on a great match, as well as the guys in the tag match. I'll confess, I was a little concerned with the whole Ric Flair-Scott Steiner-Bret Hart-Sting thing, but it all worked out very well, and Sting and Bret put on a great match. The ending was also effective, and I think the fans really liked seeing Scott Hall "get his" so to speak. Overall, the approval rating was and 82%, which is the highest we've had in a long, LONG time. Congratulations on that. I won't have info on the buy-rate for a few days, but I think it'll be fairly high.

Now, onto the monthly news. Financially, we did well. We made over 9,000,000 this past month, which Mr. Turner is VERY happy about. I think that this gives us the financial room to hire that one free agent you were talking about. I agree with what you said, I think he's gonna be a big star in the business, if he's pushed right. I can't BELIEVE WWF let him go. Also, all of our guys in training and development have improved. I'll have the exact number for all the guys in you desk, but I think that the most improvement overall came from Mike Sanders in training. According to Sgt. Buddy Lee Parker, he's really getting better in all area's of his in-ring performance. By the way, Sarge agrees with your decision to let Killer Kowalski take over the main training duties. He said that he has some independent work he can do, and he's ready to take a break from training new guys. Our image with the public is really improving, and I'm hopeful that this translates to increased TV ratings. On that front, Fox turned us down, but I still think we need to keep plugging away at them. I took the liberty to send them a tape of last night, so maybe that will impress them enough to give us a show. We'll have to see.

Anyway, that's all I have to report for now. I've distributed your plans for Nitro, and things seem to be in place. Hope you have a good time with your family. And your dog too. Woof, woof. If you need anything, just e-mail back, or give me a call. See you in the office tomorrow. Happy Memorial Day.

Sophie

Later:

Monday, January 31st:

*It's me again, Sophie. I found out some concrete numbers for you know who. He e-mailed me and asked me to confirm them, so here we go again*

Sophie's Follow-up E-mail: Well, here's the specific numbers you wanted. I was able to get an early confirmation on the buy-rate for Genesis. From what we can tell, it was about 1.12. Not bad compared to what we have been pulling in. WWF did beat us by a fair margin. They got a 1.99, so we still have a ways to go before we can compete with them directly. But we're getting there. From a financial standpoint, we pulled in 9,366,300.00. As I said before, Mr. Turner was extremely pleased with those numbers.

Also, I forgot to mention before, I got a note from Psicosis. He asked to be "moved up the card", the same way you did Kidman. I told him I'd pass the message along. Also, Ric Flair requested the same thing. Didn't think either of those would be a problem, but I didn't want to overstep my bounds.

Well, that's all for now. Hope you had a good day. Mine was spent here. But that's ok. I appreciate the offer to come spend the day with you and your family, but I got together to eat lunch with Mindy, so that was ok. Once again, I'll see you tomorrow with the stat sheet for Nitro.

Sophie

[Hajjhowe]

I remember this! It was awesome stuff. Can't wai until...

Well I won't ruin it. Keep up the good work!

[JStarr]

Good stuff thus far, Sheep...the results are bite-size without being too skimpy (except on Thunder, but that's understandable for the B-show), and the booking is a hell of a lot more sensible than anyone would ever expect from WCW...which ain't saying much, but it's still a compliment.

From reading my stuff, you know I'm a fella that likes the backstage goings-on, so the Sophie segments are entertaining ways to present all the EWR information.

One complaint about the early stuff, though...Hardcore Hak changes his gimmick to Fun Drunk. No problem with that, but how do we see it? Does he come to the ring chugging beers, a la Sandman? Does he inherit Scott Hall's problem with staggering around the ring during a match? It might up the entertainment value if we see some illustration of the new gimmicks during the match write-ups...if not, oh well, it's only Hardcore Hak, after all.

Oh, and one more question...I didn't get the whole kitty reference, could you explain?

[Commander Sheepard]

Monday, February 1st:

Nitro!

*We begin with a video package showing some of the highlights of last night's Genesis pay-per-view. We see short snippets of all the matches, showing the title changes, the great moves, and of course, the ending, with Goldberg standing triumphant in the ring. The final shot is of Kevin Nash, looking at Goldberg celebrating in the ring, and we can see the fear in his eyes...*

*With that, the pyro explodes and a huge (for Nitro) crowd of 6548 rise to their feet to welcome us to another edition of Monday Nitro. Instead of joining our announcers, we head straight to the ring for our first match. As announce by ring announcer Scott Hudson, this match is for the Cruiserweight Championship*

**Eddie Guerrero © vs. Juventud Guerrera, Cruiserweight Title match**

Juvi enters to a nice reaction from the crowd, while Eddie receives nothing but boos. He doesn't seem to care, and in fact tells the fans to kiss his...well, you know. The match begins, and the two men exchange lightning fast moves for the opening minutes, with Juvi seeming to be trying to end the match early He actually knocks Eddie down, and goes for the 450 Splash, but Eddie is too fresh and moves out of the way. Eddie takes control with some crisp offense, including a beautiful slingshot senton from the ring apron to inside the ring. Juvi proves his determination however by kicking out of everything Eddie is throwing at his. Finally, Eddie misses a charge to the corner, allowing Juvi to roll him up for a close 2 count. Juvi uses the momentary advantage to try several more pin attempts using various combinations of moves, but he tries one two many. When he goes for a sunset flip near the ropes, Eddie is able to roll through and put his feet on the ropes to hold Juvi down for the 3 count, and the victory.

*Juvi is obviously disappointed, but offers to shake Eddie's hand anyway, in a show of sportsmanship similar to what he and Psicosis displayed last night. Eddie looks at his hand, then spits right in his face, rejecting the offer. Juvi seems upset, but controls his temper and leaves quietly.*

(69/72/82 uh oh, looks like "one of THOSE nights"; **1/2; Cruiserweight Title gained image)

**Eddie lays it out**

*Eddie isn't done though, and grabs a mic and rolls back into the ring. He speaks...*

Eddie: Hey hey hey, don't feel bad man. You just lost, but you lost to the BEST cruiserweight wrestler in the world. There isn't any shame in losing to the best. OF course, there IS shame if your name is Billy Kidman. You see Kidman, last night, I proved what I've been saying all along. You're nothing but a pretty boy. You don't have any heart, you don't have any GUTS, you don't have any SOUL, man. And I exposed you last night. I exposed you for the pretender you are. I hope you enjoyed your time with the title. Because you're NEVER going to get you hands on it again. Oh, and I heard you've got a match tonight there you'll be teaming up with your little buddy Rey. Good luck man, because neither one of you is good enough to carry my boots. You got me, essa?

*Eddie drops the mic and leaves, playing up to the fans, who respond only with more boos*

(94% ; Eddie Guerrero gained overness)

*We finally cut to our hosts for the evening, Mike Tenay and Dave Meltzer*

Mike Tenay: An explosive way to open things up here on WCW Monday Nitro. Good evening everybody, I'm Mike Tenay, with me tonight is of course...

Dave Meltzer: Cut it, Tenay, I think they know who I am by now.

MT: Seems like somebody’s in a mood this evening.

DM: You would be too, if you had lost money like I did last night. After the PPV, me and a few of "the boys" went out for some gambling. I lost my shirt at the craps table.

MT: Well, we're just glad you found it again Dave. Fans, coming up tonight, we have some great action for you. We'll see the Tag Team Champions, who are coming off a successful title defense last night, defend their belts against Bam Bam Bigelow and Diamond Dallas Page of The Triad.

DM: This was supposed to be a re-match from last night, but apparently Kanyon got hurt at some point in the match. I didn't see when it happened, but Benoit and Malenko have agreed to let The Triad substitute Bam Bam for Kanyon.

MT: Just goes to prove what fighting champions they are, Dave. Fans, we'll have that match in just a few moments. We also are looking forward to an announcement from Eric Bischoff concerning Goldberg and his shot at the World Heavyweight Title. We don't know for sure WHEN Goldberg will receive that shot, but we know for a fact that he WILL.

DM: Maybe Bischoff will clear things up tonight. We've also got Chris Jericho defending his newly won Television Title against a man making his return to WCW after a few weeks absence, Konnan.

MT: Certainly something to look forward to. But now fans, I've received word that Eric Bischoff has requested a camera in his office. Maybe this is the announcement concerning the Goldberg title match. Let's find out...

**Eric makes a match**

*We cut to Eric Bischoff's office, where he is sitting behind a large mahogany desk. Seated across from him are...Bret Hart and Scott Steiner?*

Eric Bischoff: Gentlemen, and I use that term loosely, I'm sure you're wondering why I asked you to some back here right now. Wait, don't say anything. You see, I've had it up to HERE with all of the sneak attacks and 2 on 1 attacks here in WCW as of late. So I've decided to take some action. And it starts with you two gentlemen. You see, last night, you beat the hell out of Ric Flair for absolutely NO reason. Bret, you had to resort to blatant CHEATING to defeat Sting in your match, and quite frankly, I'm sick of it. So tonight, you two WILL be wrestling. And you WILL be wrestling in the main event. And your opponents? In case you haven't figured that out yet, you're going to be facing Sting and Ric Flair.

Bret Hart: Now wait a minute...

Eric Bischoff: No, YOU wait a minute. The match is made. Period, end of story. Go get ready, both of you.

*With that, Bischoff stands up and walks out, leaving Hart and Steiner seething in his office. Steiner lets out some of his frustration by grabbing the chair and slamming it against the wall, while Bret just looks pissed.*

(87%)

MT: Another blockbuster announcement from Eric Bischoff! That's a HUGE tag team main event for tonight.

DM: You know, I have to hand it to Eric. He really seems to know how to put together some potentially great matches.

MT: Speaking of great matches, let' go down to ringside for out Tag Team Title match, coming up NEXT!

**Chris Benoit/Dean Malenko© vs. The Triad 2 (Bam Bam Bigelow/DDP); Tag Team Championship match**

DDP and Bam Bam enter the ring to a large amount of negative reaction from the crowd, while the champions enjoy a much better response. The action is quickly underway, with all four men in the ring brawling. It settles down after a few minutes, leaving Malenko in the ring with Bam Bam. Malenko tried to use his wrestling know-how to attack the legs of the big man, but Bigelow's power proves too much as he catches Dean in a HUGE powerslam. He tags in DDP, who uses some old fashioned cheating to maintain the advantage, including a greco-roman thumb to the eye. After a few more minutes of punishment, DDP goes for a backdrop off the ropes, but ducks too soon, allowing Malenko to roll him up for a small package. DDP kicks out, but is disoriented enough to let Malenko make the hot tag to Chris Benoit. Benoit enters the ring with thunderous chops and two consecutive snap suplexes on DDP. Bam Bam tried to interfere, but Malenko has recovered enough to cut him off, and it's soon BONZO-GONZO! Suddenly, as the action continues in the ring, a figure can be seen emerging from underneath the ring. It's Chris Kanyon! He jumps in the ring with a chair, attempting to hit Chris Benoit without the referee seeing it. Unfortunately, the ref turns around to see him in the ring, and calls for the bell, DQ'ing Bam Bam and DDP.

*The members of the Triad continue on the attack, as Benoit and Malenko can't fight back, due to a numbers handicap this is soon remedied however as Arn Anderson comes running down the aisle to a huge pop from the crowd. With the numbers evened up, Benoit and Malenko are able to fight off The Triad members, running them out of the ring.*

(71/67/91; **1/2; Tag Team titles gained image)

**Arn lays down a challenge**

*Arn beckons for a mic, and is soon given one. He addresses the fleeing Triad members*

Arn Anderson: Hey, listen to me! Before you three jackasses leave, I've got one thing to say. You're mighty tough when it's 3 against 2, and you can attack from behind with a chair. But how about we see how you do, when it's 3 against 3! This Thursday night, at Thunder, the three of you against Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko. Oh wait, that's right, whatagoof I am sometimes. The third member of their team, is gonna be ME!

*The fans explode at this challenge, as DDP and the other Triad members look doubtfully at Anderson and the tag champs*

(80%)

DM: Is Arn Anderson crazy? He knows he can't wrestle. He knows that his doctor told him that if he wrestles again he risks serious damage to his neck. What's he THINKING?

MT: Evidently he's tired of watching Benoit and Malenko get attacked by members of The Triad. But I agree with you, it's a very dangerous proposition Arn Anderson is making. We'll have to see how it turns out on Thunder.

DM: I know I'll be watching. Besides the morbid curiosity factor, it should also be a great match between 6 very solid wrestlers.

MT: That it should Dave, that it should. Now fans, coming up next, we're going to see the return of a WCW superstar who hasn't been seen in the last few weeks, as Konnan takes on WCW Television champion, Chris Jericho.

**But first**

*The camera cuts backstage to see Kevin Nash and Scott Hall hanging out backstage, talking and apparently unconcerned about what happened last night. We then see Scott Hudson walk up to the pair, and clears his throat*

Scott Hall: Hey there chico, what do you want man?

Kevin Nash: Yeah, spill it Scotty.

Scott Hudson: Well Kevin, I just wanted to let you know that, after this next match, Eric Bischoff wants to see you in the ring.

Scott Hall: What's Eric Bischoff want with us chico?

Scott Hudson: Actually, its JUST Kevin that he wants.

Kevin Nash: Well, Scotty, you tell Eric that I'm more than happy to meet him whenever or WHEREVER he wants.

Scott Hudson: Um, sure thing, Kev. I'll pass that along.

*Hudson walks off while Nash and Hall exchange worried glances*

(83%)

DM: I wonder what THAT'S all about.

MT: I don't know Dave, but we'll find out, after this next match.

**But second...**

*Chris Jericho makes his way down to the ring, showing off his Television Title belt as the crowd nearly boos him out of the arena. He has a mic in his hand, and decides to speak*

Chris Jericho: Isn't like great? I mean, look at me. The most charismatic, athletic, good-looking man in WCW. And now that I beat Booger T last night, I'm a champion too. Booger, I don't know if you're in the building tonight, but I hope you're watching, because I want you to see this.

*Jericho holds the belt high above his head in a "championship" pose, as the boos cascade down*

Chris Jericho: Remember that look Booger, because when you look at me, you're looking at a TRUE champion. Now bring this guy Konnan the mini barbarian guy down to the ring, so I can kick his ass just like I kicked Booger T's ass last night.

*Jericho drops the mic and gives the ref his belt to get ready for his first title defense*

(86%)

**Chris Jericho© vs. Konnan; Television Title match**

Jericho doesn't have long to wait, as Konnan's music brings the fans to their feet. They seem to have missed having Konnan on TV lately. Jericho seizes the advantage as Konnan plays to the crowd outside the ring to hit a baseball slide dropkick to knock Konnan down. He goes outside the ring, whipping Konnan into the barriers and ring apron a few times. He throws Konnan back into the ring and goes back on the attack, using his brawling skills more than his high-flying offense to keep Konnan down. Konnan does manage to fight back with some of his usual offense, including a rolling clothesline that almost takes Jericho's head off. Konnan continues on the assault, even managing to put Jericho in the Tequila Sunrise. Jericho grabs the bottom rope to break the hold, and rolls outside the ring as the referee keeps Konnan from following. Jericho grabs his Title belt and turns his back to the ring. Konnan pushes the referee aside and goes to grab Jericho by the hair. When he feels Konnan's hands on him, Jericho spins and nails him right in the head with the belt, knocking him out. Jericho rolls back in the ring as the referee revives enough to make the 3 count.

*After the match, Jericho looks as if he's going to continue his assault, but is not able to as Booker T comes sprinting down the aisle and catches Jericho with a big clothesline to knock him down. Booker whips Jericho into the ropes for a big move, but Jericho holds onto the top rope and pulls himself out of the ring, grabbing his belt on the way out and stumbling back up the aisle as Booker watches.*

(74/82/85; **3/4)

MT: Jericho manages to sneak out of this match with his title still around his waist, but Booker T saved Konnan from any more of a beating.

DM: Yeah, something tells me that Jericho and Booker T aren't finished with each other.

MT: Now fans, as you saw earlier, Eric Bischoff ordered Kevin Nash to meet him in the ring after that last match. Who knows that Eric has in store for Nash?

DM: Well, since I hear Bischoff's music, I'd say we're about to find out.

**Eric Bischoff makes the match**

*Eric Bischoff makes his way down to the ring to the cheers of the crowd. He has a mic, of course, and raises it to speak*

Eric Bischoff: Now, at this time, I would like to say a few things. Last night was one of the best nights of my career. You see, last night Goldberg defeated Kevin Nash and Scott Hall, definitively, in the middle of the ring. And, as was agreed upon by Kevin Nash and myself, that means that Goldberg WILL receive a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. Now, the only question is, when? Well, let's bring out our World Champion before we answer that question. Kevin Nash, COME ON DOWN!

*The music of the Wolfpac fills the arena, as the fans explode in boo's as the World Champion saunters onto the stage Bischoff motions for Nash to stop there, which he does*

Kevin Nash: Yeah? I'm here, so uh, what's on your mind, Eric?

Eric Bischoff: Well, "Kev", I just wanted you to be out here to hear this announcement. You see, I debated as to when your World title defense against Goldberg will take place. I thought about putting it on next weeks Nitro, but as much as I want to see Goldberg tear you apart, I'm a business man, and I think a match of this size needs to be on a much larger stage. I'm thinking, World title match, Goldberg versus Kevin Nash, pay-per-view, SUPERBRAWL!

Kevin Nash: Eric, you think you can just come out here and do whatever you want, don't you? Well I'll tell you what, me and Goldberg at Superbrawl? That sounds fine to me. As a matter of fact, I'm looking forward to getting that big lug in the ring one on one. But let me tell you this, MR. Bischoff. If I were you, I would watch my back. Remember Eric, "He flies through the air with the greatest of ease..."

*With that, Nash walks back off the stage, as Eric Bischoff looks after him in the ring*

(88%)

DM: So there you have it Tenay, Goldberg and Kevin Nash at Superbrawl. What a huge announcement from Eric Bischoff.

MT: You can say that again. It's only the night after Genesis, and we already know that Goldberg will get his shot at the World Title at Superbrawl. You have to wonder though if Goldberg and Kevin Nash will hook up before then. It might be difficult to keep them apart.

DM: Fans, you'll want to keep a close eye on this situation. Coming up next, we have a tag team match, with the winners receiving a shot at the Tag Titles next week on Nitro.

MT: That's right, and this will feature 4 of the young stars of WCW, including the former cruiserweight champion, Billy Kidman. Kidman and Rey Mysterio, Jr. take on the "Dancing Fools" Alex Wright and Disco Inferno, next!

**Kidman/Rey Mysterio, Jr. vs. The Dancing Fools**

Both teams enter the ring, looking very determined to do their best and gain a Tag Team Title shot. The action begins fast and furious, with Kidman and Mysterio breaking out some high-flying offense to keep The Dancing Fools off balance. Wright and Disco manage to gain a small advantage when Disco catches Rey coming off the top rope with a boot to the stomach, followed by a swinging neckbreaker. The advantage is short lived however, as Rey gets a tag to Kidman, who cleans house on The Dancing Fools. He takes out Wright with a clothesline over the top rope, then catches Disco with a Rydeen Bomb. He then goes up top and nails the Shooting Start Press for the pinfall.

*Wright attacks Rey after the bell, but Kidman cannot make the save. The reason for this is that Eddie Guerrero comes sneaking down the aisle and grabs Kidman's foot, pulling him out of the ring, where he proceeds to lay a beating on him, reinforcing his point from earlier in the evening. Finally, Eddie leaves Kidman alone just as Mysterio knocks Wright down and comes to Kidman’s rescue. He kneels over Kidman as Eddie backs up the aisle, smirking at what he has done*

(57/47/81 *1/2 ; the crowd was still pumped up from the last segment, so the reaction suffered)

MT: Yet another great match ruined by extra-curricular activities after the bell. Eddie Guerrero and Kidman aren't done with each other yet Dave.

DM: That's obvious Tenay. Eddie seems like he still wants to prove to Kidman that HE'S the superior wrestler. Should be interesting to see if they hook up again inside the ring.

MT: If they do, it's sure to be another great match like the one we saw last night. Now fans, coming up next, we have our main event. As you saw, Eric Bischoff made this match in reaction to what happened last night between Bret Hart, Scott Steiner, Sting, and Ric Flair.

DM: You have to know that Ric Flair has drawn a bull’s-eye on Bret Hart. He wants to get his hands on Hart more than anything else right now. If he's not careful, he could get ahead of himself and cost his team the match.

MT: I have to believe that Ric Flair is too much of a veteran to make a mistake like that. But let's find out for sure, NOW!

**Bret Hart/Scott Steiner vs. Sting/Ric Flair**

The reaction to both teams is on opposite sides of the spectrum. Hart and Steiner's music can't be heard over the boos from the crowd, while the introduction of Sting and Ric Flair almost blows the roof off the arena. The match begins as a huge brawl, with all four men in the ring. Bret Hart is very careful not to let Ric Flair near him, and let's Steiner handle the "Nature Boy". This continues even as the match settles down, with Bret only getting in the ring when Ric Flair is on the apron. He seems content to let Steiner handle the majority of the match, although Sting manages to dominate with a series of basic moves like slams and suplexes. Steiner comes back with his own suplexes, including a big belly-to-belly that puts Sting in the corner with Hart. Hart seizes the opportunity to choke Sting out, breaking only when the referee threatens a DQ. Sting fights out of the corner with his "judo" chops and punches, before Bret grabs his hair and pulls him back down. Steiner tags out, and Hart comes in, working over Sting with his usual repertoire of moves, focusing especially on the back and legs. Some more fast tags between the Steiner and Hart keep Sting on his back, although the fans try their best to rally him back. Sting finally gets back to his feet when Steiner goes for an elbowdrop and misses. He tries to fight back to his corner, but Steiner grabs his foot, trying to pull him back. Sting hops on his other foot, then delivers an enziguiri(!) to the back of Steiners head, to put him down. Sting lunges to his corner and makes the tag, bringing in Ric Flair to a huge explosion from the crowd. Flair cleans house on Steiner with chops and punches, following up with more of his classic Flair offense. Steiner stops his offensive onslaught with a low blow, and tries to make the tag to Hart. However, Hart obviously doesn't want any part of Ric Flair, even with him down on the ground, and jumps down off the apron to avoid the tag. Steiner looks confused, and turns around only to be met by Sting, who has tagged back in. He throws Steiner into the corner, delivering a Stinger Splash, then grabbing Steiner as he goes to fall and delivering a Scorpion Deathdrop, covering Steiner for the 1-2-3!

*As Sting celebrates in the ring with Ric Flair, Bret Hart sneaks back into the ring, nailing Sting from behind and shoving him into Flair. Steiner gets back to his feet and the four men start brawling again, with Hart still keeping his distance from Flair. The crowd goes crazy as they battle back and forth in the ring.*

(76/89/77; ***)

MT: What an ending here on Nitro! All four men tearing each other apart in the ring, and the referee can't do anything to stop it!

DM: They might tear this place down, Tenay! Somebody get some security out here, now!

MT: Fans, we don't know where this will end up. Tune in to Thunder to find out!

*We close out this edition on Nitro with one last shot of all four men brawling back and forth in the ring*

Overall: 78%

OOC: Thanks for the comments Hajihowe and jstarr. starr, as far as Hardcore Hak goes, I just dropped the ball with having him DO something to show a gimmick change. As far as the backstage stuff, well, that gets a little more prominent later one as well. Maybe TOO much though, lol. Anyway, thanks again, and I hope you (both) keep reading. Can't wait to get to get everything posted so I can get started on some new stuff!

Oh, and as far as the kitty goes, obviously she's an animal lover. Probably used to work at a vet's office. What ELSE could it mean?

[Commander Sheepard]

Tuesday, February 2nd:

*I'm baaaaaaaack! And better than ever. At least, I FEEL better than ever. The PPV went well, and in my own opinion, so did last nights Nitro. I'm sitting here with my assistant Sophie, to find out if anyone ELSE agrees with Me.*

Me: So, you have the numbers for Nitro?

Sophie: Sure do. They're right here.

Me: Let me have it then.

Sophie: Alright, here goes. The approval rating was good. VERY good as a matter of fact.

Me: How good is very good?

Sophie: A 78%. One of our highest rated shows yet.

Me: Hey, that IS pretty good. I'm glad to see the audience enjoyed it.

Sophie: Me too. Also, we scored a 5.48 TV rating, which is ALSO good, considering it got the network off our back for another week. It looks like slowly but surely they're starting to ease up on us.

Me: I hope so; especially considering that deal with Fox fell through. Thanks for sending the tape of the PPV though. If that doesn't convince them, NOTHING will.

Sophie: I agree. Oh, we also had 6548 people at Nitro last night.

Me: Great. Our in-house audience is getting bigger too.

Sophie: Yep, sure is.

Me: Sophie, let me ask you, what did YOU think of Nitro?

Sophie: Personally, I thought it was an excellent follow-up for the pay per view. The crowd really seems to be getting into Goldberg and Nash, not to mention the fact that Booker T and Jericho are almost stealing the show every time they get together.

Me: You're right about that. I KNEW it was just a matter of giving those two guys a chance to shine.

Sophie: I'd say they're seizing their opportunity.

Me: No doubt.

Sophie: By the way, what did you decide about Psicosis and Ric Flair?

Me: What about them?

Sophie: They asked to be moved up the card, remember?

Me: Oh yeah, sorry, thought I had already told you. I got in touch with both guys and told them I would do what the wanted in this regard. Both guys, in particular Flair, have worked hard lately. And Psicosis has REALLY been tearing it up on the house show circuit.

Sophie: I agree. And I think that Flair and Hart are gonna be another show-stopper, when they get in the ring.

Me: Who says they're ever GOING to get in the ring, hmm?

Sophie: Well, I just naturally assumed...

Me: Sophie, you know what happens when you assume, don't you?

Sophie: Yeah, I do, I do. *Sighs* So, what ARE you going to do about Flair and Hart?

Me: Let's just say, the fans will get what they want out of this feud.

Sophie: Good, I hope so. The last "regime" didn't seem to be so good at closing the door on this kind of thing.

Me: Well, I hope I'll prove MUCH better than they were. Hey listen, Sophie, I hate to cut this meeting short, but I have to run. I have that interview with that "insider" site.

Sophie: Oh yeah. What's the name of it again?

Me: Insiderwrestling.com**(see below)** I promised them I would give this interview for free. Trying to build up a good online presence and all that.

Sophie: I know what you mean. Well, you go and take care of that. I distribute the plans for Thunder so everyone can go ahead and start planning. I think it's gonna be another good show.

Me: Me too. That six-man main event should really rock the house, I'm thinking. And I think Arn will be careful so that he doesn't do anything to aggravate his condition.

Sophie: Hopefully you're right again on BOTH points. Well, I'll run now. See you later at the production meeting.

Me: Bye Sophie, and thanks.

*Sophie exits, leaving me alone once again. I really, REALLY don't want to do this interview. I have a feeling I'm gonna have to tap dance around answering questions about the storylines and backstage going's on. Oh well such is the price of...not fame, but whatEVER I have. Better run. The 17-year-old "insiders" await...*

**My apologies if there really IS a site with this name. It juts seemed like a good, generic name. No offense intended.**

[Commander Sheepard]

Thursday, February 4th:

Thunder!

*As is the usual, a video runs prior to the start of Thunder, detailing the events of last week's event and this past Monday night on Nitro. Particular attention is paid to Arn Anderson challenging The Triad to a match right on Thunder*

*As the pyrotechnics explode, we are taken straight to our announce booth, where we are joined by "The Professor" Mike Tenay and "The American Dream, if ya weeeeeeeel" Dusty Rhodes. The first thing our announcers do is inform us that The Triad has accepted the 6 man match for tonight, and that will be our main event. They then throw us to the ring for our first contest.*

**Psicosis vs. Lash Leroux vs. Chavo Guerrero, Jr.**

The announcers hype this match up as being an important match to move up the cruiserweight rankings. All three men go at it in fast and furious action, each controlling at various points. After LeRoux knocks Chavo out of the ring, he falls prey to a Psicosis powerbomb, which is followed up by a top rope Guillotine Legdrop to give Psicosis the victory.

(68/53/84; **1/2)

Our announcer’s talk about what a fantastic match that was, before sending up backstage for a word with Arn Anderson and the Tag Team Champions.

**Arn hypes it up**

Arn delivers a great interview, promising The Triad that he's going to carry his weight in the 6 man match tonight, and that in the end, The Triad is getting beaten down.

(98% ; Arn Anderson gained overness)

After hyping up the main event for a few more minutes, Tenay and Rhodes tell us that the next match is going to feature the young man who was cheated out of a win at Genesis, Chris Daniels, taking on another young superstar in Disco Inferno.

**Chris Daniels vs. Disco Inferno**

Tenay talks about how this is a test for Daniels to see how he reacts to his first loss at this past weekends PPV. He seems to handle it well, as after several minutes of back and forth action, he catches Disco with his Double Underhook Powerbomb for the 3 count!

*As Daniels leaves quietly, slapping hands with the fans, Disco throws a tantrum in the ring, pounding his fists on the mat and generally acting like a crybaby*

(70/55/85; **1/2; Chris Daniels gained overness)

The announcers inform us that next we're going to hear from Ric Flair concerning all of the things that Bret Hart has put him through as of late.

**Flair and Bret duke it out...with words**

As Flair is introduced and enters the ring, he is joined by none other than his nemesis Bret Hart. The two men trade heated words, with Flair getting in Bret's face several times. After repeatedly asking for match, Flair is turned down yet again when Bret Hart smiles condescendingly at him, and just walks out, leaving Flair alone in the middle of the ring.

(93%; Bret Hart gained overness)

Dusty says that this is no way to treat a veteran like Flair, and that Bret Hart needs someone to beat some respect into him. He sounds as if he's about to challenge Bret himself, when Tenay mercifully announces that next we have a pre-taped interview with the World Champion, Kevin Nash.

**Nash speaks on Goldberg**

The interview was obviously taped after Nitro Monday night, as Nash talks about Eric Bischoff making the match for Superbrawl. He tells Goldberg that he STILL hasn't pinned him, and he never will. Nash says that he doesn't need anyone to back him up to beat Goldberg, because Goldberg is nothing but a product of hype. He closes the interview by challenging Goldberg to meet him face to face in the ring on Nitro.

(91%; Kevin Nash gained overness)

After discussing Nash's challenge to Goldberg, the announcers tell us that from here on out it's nothing but matches for the rest of the night. The first match is for the Cruiserweight Title, and features Eddie Guerrero defending his belt against Rey Mysterio, Jr.

**Eddie Guerrero© vs. Rey Mysterio, Jr.; Cruiserweight Title match**

As Tenay and Rhodes fill us in on the past few weeks’ history between these two men and Billy Kidman, they also remind us that Kidman and Mysterio have a shot at the Tag Team Titles on Nitro. The match is extremely fast paced, with both men showing off some of their best offense. After some awesome exchanges, Eddie manages to sneak out with a win by nailing Rey between the legs, and pinning him with his feet on the rope.

*Eddie tried to continue the beating on Rey, but has to stop when Kidman comes running down to the ring. Eddie clears out as Kidman checks on his fallen partner*

(81/69/94; ***1/4; Cruiserweight Title gained image)

The announcers repeatedly put over the fantastic match the two men just had, before remind us yet again to tune in to Nitro to see if Rey and Kidman can win the Tag Titles. They then announce the next match, which will feature the return of the British Bulldog as he challenges Chris Jericho for the Television title.

**Chris Jericho© vs. The British Bulldog**

Tenay informs us that Jericho asked for a match against anyone in WCW to prove his worth as champion, and the Bulldog decided to make his return to challenge for the title. Bulldog controls most of the match with his power, with Jericho using every sneaky tactic and underhanded trick, along with his speed, to fight back. In the end, Jericho causes the Bulldog to be DQ'ed, as he bumps into the referee. With the ref down, Jericho grabs his title belt and tries to nail the Bulldog. Bulldog wrestles it away, but the referee wakes up just in time to see Bulldog holding the belt, and disqualifies him.

*Jericho doesn't wait around for the Bulldog to get revenge, instead choosing to grab his belt and sprint back down the aisle, away from the Bulldog.*

(86/82/91 WTF? a BULLDOG match?; ***1/2; Television Title gained image)

Tenay and Rhodes talk about what a cheap way that is to hold onto you belt, but Jericho seems to not be above resorting to such tactics. They then tell us to get ready, as the big 6-man tag match is NEXT.

**Arn Anderson/Chris Benoit/Dean Malenko vs. Diamond Dallas Page/Kanyon/Bam Bam Bigelow**

The whole match is a big brawl, with all 6 men in the ring at various points. The Triad tries to get Anderson isolated in the ring, but they are unsuccessful in doing so. In the end, after yet another huge brawl that leaves 4 of the 6 men outside the ring, DDP turns around only to be met by a patented AA Spinebuster, which knocks him out for the 1-2-3!

(66/50/82 **; The crowd was still pumped from the last segment so this was viewed as something of a let down )

*As the brawl continues in the ring and outside, Tenay and Rhodes remind us to tune in for all the great action on Nitro, including the Tag Team Title match, and Goldberg and Kevin Nash's confrontation!*

Overall:79

[Commander Sheepard]

Welcome to Insidewrestling.com's exclusive interview with WCW Head Booker, Kris Vick. If you read our site, you know me, "The Insider" Mike Daniels. And if you've been watching WCW lately, then you've seen what our guest today has been doing. This interview took place February 2nd. Sorry about it taking so long to be posted, but you how busy the life of a wrestling insider can be, lol. Anyway, let's get to the interview, where I ask the hard-hitting questions you all want to read.

Insider: Kris, welcome to our site.

Kris: Thanks, it's always good to talk with some real wrestling fans.

Insider: Well, we're certainly that. Let' start right off with our first question. How did you get this job?

Kris: Well, as I'm sure has been explained elsewhere, I had known Ted Turner for quite a while, and he liked my work. I was in the right place at the right time.

Insider: And how did the "boys" take the news that you would be taking over?

Kris: Well, as far as I can tell, everyone took it well. I think that most of them we ready for some new, fresh ideas, and that’s what I try to provide.

Insider: I'd say you were successful. Let's move on. What prompted your decision to go with Goldberg and Kevin Nash as your big angle?

Kris: You mean besides the fact that they're two of the biggest names in wrestling today? I think it was that they already had the history from leading up to Starrcade, so it made it easier to connect with the fans.

Insider: Well, they certainly seem to be enjoying it. What about Ric Flair and Bret Hart? Some might say that this angle is counterproductive to pushing new talent.

Kris: They might, and I'm sorry if they do. They way I look at it, just because we are pushing two veterans like that, does NOT mean that we aren't still giving the younger talent some exposure. Look at Chris Daniels, Booker T, Jericho, and some of the cruiserweights.

Insider: Very true, very true. Personally, I think that the ratings show that the audience is enjoying the shows. I know that a lot of my fellow insiders are definitely enjoying it.

Kris: Well, great, I guess. I mean, I try to put on the best product I can. That's what we all do. And if we succeed, then great. If we don't then we go back to work and try to make things better.

Insider: So, can you tell us anything about upcoming angles?

Kris: Nothing specific, but I CAN tell you that Superbrawl is shaping up to be even better than Genesis. Keep an eye out for Goldberg and Nash, as well as Hart and Flair. We're also looking to shake up the tag division here by adding some more competitive teams. Overall, I think things are really going to be exciting the next few weeks, and months really.

Insider: Awww, come on, just a little HINT at what we might see? For example, will Nash and Goldberg fight in a regular match? Or some type of gimmick match?

Kris: Let's just say, we're going to put them in a type of match where they can have success based on their abilities, and leave it at that.

Insider: A tough nut to crack, this one. Anyway, it was good to have you here. Maybe we can do this again sometime?

Kris: Yeah, maybe. Thanks for asking those "hard hitting questions" too.

Insider: That's my job. Because I, am The INSIDER! Bye for now fans.

[Commander Sheepard]

Monday, February 8th:

Nitro!

*A buzz of anticipation fills the air as the crowd files in, anxious for another great night of WCW action. As the music kicks in, and the pyro explodes, all 6,520 fans jump to their feet and roar their approval at the beginning of what is sure to be an exciting evening. We go to our ring announcers, Mike Tenay and Dave Meltzer*

Mike Tenay: Good evening everybody, and welcome once again to WCW Monday Nitro! Fans, I think you're in for a treat tonight, as we have some great action lined up. With me as always, my broadcast partner, Dave Meltzer. Dave, what do YOU think about tonight's line-up?

Dave Meltzer: Well Tenay, I have to say, I've seen the itinerary, and things look explosive here tonight. We're going to see Eddie Guerrero defend his cruiserweight title against a young man looking to prove his worth in the cruiserweight division, in Blitzkrieg. We also have Chris Jericho defending his hard won Television Title against a young man that has been making some waves here in WCW, Chris Daniels. And of course, the Tag Team Title match between Kidman and Mysterio, Jr. and the champs, Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko.

MT: Not to mention the main event of the evening, as Sting will be facing Scott Steiner. Apparently Dave, BRET HART asked for this match? Why would Bret Hart ask for a match that doesn't even feature him?

DM: There's no telling what goes on in the mind of "The Hitman". But I'm sure that whatever the reason, Bret Hart has a plan.

MT: No doubt about that fans. But now, let's get right to the ring for our first match-up of the evening, a cruiserweight title defense by Eddie Guerrero!

**Eddie Guerrero© vs. Blitzkrieg; Cruiserweight Title match**

Blitzkrieg enjoys a small reaction from the fans, who seem ready for some cruiserweight action. Eddie Guerrero's entrance draws the ire of the fans, as he casually saunters down the aisle, taking his time to stop and polish his belt along the way. The fans aren't the only ones tired of his act however, as Blitzkrieg takes a running jump and dives onto Eddie over the top rope with a huge tope. He wipes Eddie totally out to the delight of the fans. Blitzkrieg throws Eddie back in the ring and attempts quick cover. Eddie kicks out at one, but can't regain his feet, as Blitzkrieg shows some aggression by going right after Eddie. He nails him with some quick moves, including a beautiful dropkick right to the chin of the champ. Thinking he has the match won, Blitzkrieg goes to the top to attempt his Sky Twister Press, but misses as Eddie rolls out of the way. He lands hard, seeming to hurt his back. This gives Eddie the opening he needs, and he proceeds to spend the next few minutes working on the lower back of his opponent, using various suplexes and a vicious tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. With Blitzkrieg down and hurting, it's Eddie's turn to go up top and attempt his big move. He rolls Blitzkrieg onto his stomach, and signals to the crowd. This time, Eddie manages to land a Frog Splash right into the lower back of Blitzkrieg. This is enough to keep him down for the easy 3 count.

*After the match, Blitzkrieg is understandably slow getting to his feet. He puts out his hand for Eddie to shake, but Eddie just pushes his hand away and throws him outside the ring. He goes over to the corner and signals for a mic, which he is soon given...*

(69/60/94; **1/2; Cruiserweight Title gained image)

**Eddie Speaks**

*Eddie grabs the mic out of Scott Hudson's hand, and walks back to the center of the ring. He speaks...*

Eddie Guerrero: You see that? You see that? THAT'S what happens when you screw with me. That's what happens when you try to take my belt away from me. I hope you were watching real close Kidman. Because that's what I'm gonna do to you, if YOU ever stick your nose into my business again. You, or anybody else. There's NOBODY, nobody going to take this belt away from me. And Kidman, by the way? I hear you've got a Tag Team Title match tonight with your little buddy Rey. All I can say is, good luck. And I hope nothing happens to you.

*Eddie gives a smirk into the camera, as the crowd reacts in a negative fashion to his remarks. Eddie doesn't seem to care, as he leaves the ring slowly, strutting his way down the aisle.*

(92%; Eddie Guerrero gained overness)

DM: Another great match from Eddie Guerrero. Say what you want about his words, but he backs them up in the ring with his actions.

MT: I have to agree with that Dave. But I also have to wonder what Eddie meant when he said he hopes nothing happens to Billy Kidman. If I were Kidman, I'd keep my eyes open.

DM: If you were Kidman, I don't think you'd be a former cruiserweight champion either, Tenay.

MT: Thanks, partner. Fans, regardless of any of this, we still have a lot of great action to look forward to...

**Nash...has entered the building**

*As is the custom, Tenay is interrupted as we cut backstage to where a limo has just arrived. The driver exits the limo and goes to open the door. The passenger is none other than the World Champion, Kevin Nash. He steps out, not even bothering to acknowledge the driver, and begins to walk into the building. He stops to look at the camera, then smirks and says "I hope Goldberg's ready for tonight", as he shoulders his bag and walks into the arena.*

(76%)

MT: What was THAT all about? He hopes Goldberg's ready for WHAT tonight?

DM: I guess we'll just have to find out later Tenay. Because coming up next, we have a match to determine the number one contender for Chris Jericho's Television Title. The former champion, Booker T will be facing Rick Steiner for the opportunity to wrestle Jericho at the up-coming pay-per-view, Superbrawl.

MT: You know Dave, some fans might look at this as a little bit of a mismatch. You have Booker T, former Television champion, who besides his loss to Jericho has been on something of a roll lately. While Rick Steiner hasn't been having much success the past few weeks.

DM: That's an understatement. Rick Steiner has been on a losing streak the likes of which he's never seen before. I talked with him earlier, and he WASN'T in a good mood.

MT: Let's see if he can break that streak, coming up next.

**Booker T vs. Rick Steiner; Television Title #1 Contenders match**

Steiner enters to a fairly good-sized reaction from the crowd, although he doesn't seem to acknowledge any of it. He looks all business as Booker T makes his way to the ring accompanied by a large pop from the fans. The two lock up, and immediately start brawling with each other, nailing the other man with right and left hands. Steiner gets the advantage first, whipping Booker into the ropes and catching him with a Steinerline that almost puts Booker down for the count. Steiner continues to use power moves on Booker, going for a pin after every big move. He even manages to catch Booker with a big belly-to-belly suplex that puts him down in the corner. Steiner misses a charge as Booker rises however, and catches the turnbuckle hard. Booker starts to fight back, using some stiff kicks and clotheslines of his own to take Steiner down. He tried for an Ax Kick, but Steiner gets his head up in time. The two men go back to brawling in the middle of the ring, with neither one able to get a clear advantage. Soon however, Booker starts to gain an edge. As he goes for another Ax Kick and hits it, Rick Steiner’s tag team partner Kenny Kaos comes running down the aisle. He looks as if he's going to try to interfere and help his partner win, but all he manages to do is distract Rick as he is trying to get up, which allows Booker to go up top. He comes off, nailing a perfect Missile Dropkick, pinning Steiner to get the 3 count.

*As Booker leaves, celebrating his future title shot with the fans, something is happening in the ring. It's obvious that Rick Steiner is NOT happy with Kaos. Kaos appears to be trying to apologize, but Rick won't have any of it. He goes to leave, but Kaos tried again to make Rick listen. Instead of listening, Rick nails Kaos with a big Steinerline, before proceeding to beat him down with an array of stomps and punches. He continues to pound on Kaos until a host of officials in suits manages to pull him off. On the way up the ramp, Steiner shows his true colors by spitting on a fan that was trying to reach out and slap his hand. The crowd does not appreciate this turn of events*

(67/70/81; **1/2; Rick Steiner completed his turn, Rick Steiner gained overness from this turn)

MT: What a shocking turn of events from Rick Steiner! Obviously he was frustrated by yet another loss, but did he have to take it out on Kaos?

DM: The truth is Tenay, maybe he did. Rick Steiner is a veteran, and all Kaos was going to do was hold him down. Rick Steiner obviously felt that the only way to settle the matter was to do what he did. And it certainly seems to have sent the message loud and clear.

MT: I would say so. You have to wonder though if Rick Steiner is going about this the right way.

DM: Hold on Tenay, I just got word in my headset that apparently there's something going on in the back. Let's get a camera back there...

**What about the title match**

*As we cut away to the backstage area, it becomes clear what's going on. Lying on the floor, in a pool of his own blood, is Billy Kidman. It seems like someone has attacked him, but no one saw who did it. His partner, Rey Mysterio, Jr. stands over him, with a concerned look on his mask.*

(41% DAMMIT! :ohwell:I forgot Kidman has CRAP for charisma)

MT: What a scene in the back. You have to wonder who was behind that attack, don't you Dave?

DM: Come on Tenay, it's obvious that you have someone in mind. Who do YOU think it was?

MT: Well, going strictly by what he had to say earlier this evening, I would say that Eddie Guerrero has to be a prime suspect.

DM: You may be right Tenay. But maybe the Tag Champs decided to get their licks in early, to soften him up for the match later.

MT: That doesn't sound like Benoit and Malenko to me Dave. And judging by what we saw just then, I don't think Kidman is going to be in ANY shape to wrestle later on. Fans, we'll keep you posted on that situation as we learn more about it. As hard as it is after something like that, we have to continue with the show. Coming up next, a moment that I can't wait to see, as Goldberg will be in the ring with Kevin Nash, face to face. Nash called Goldberg out last week, and we just received word that confrontation is happening right now!

**Nash goes face to face...to face with Goldberg**

*The Wolfpac's music plays, and Nash enters, alone. He gets into the ring, holding his belt above his head. He then stands with a mic, waiting patiently for Goldberg. He doesn't have to wait long, as the familiar music crashes overhead, and the crowd erupts. Goldberg soon enters the arena, and walks with a purpose down the aisle, into the ring. He stands facing Nash, both men tense and ready for action*

Kevin Nash: Nice to see ya again, Billy. Listen, here's the reason I called you out for tonight. I just wanted to clear the air on a few things between us. First things first. Congratulations. You heard me, congratulations. You managed to win the handicap match at Genesis fair and square. You earned a shot at my title. So congratulations for that. But there's just one thing there Billy boy. You see, you pinned Scott Hall at Genesis not me. You didn't pin the World Champion. As a matter of fact, you've NEVER pinned me. You see, like I said one time before, while you were off being Mr.WCW and doing all those good deeds for the charities and doing those commercials and all that other crap, I was doing one thing. Getting ready for you. And at Starrcade, I beat you. And you STILL haven't beaten me. So that tells me one thing: I don't have to SWEAT this match at Superbrawl. Because it's like my momma always told me: "Kev, until anyone takes you down, you're always going to be on top of them". Smart woman, my momma. She also told me this: Look both ways before crossing the street.

*Goldberg looks confused at this somewhat odd statement. The meaning soon becomes clear however, as Scott Hall comes jumping out of the audience with a taser in his hand. Goldberg doesn't see him coming until it's too late as Hall uses the taser to once again shock Goldberg down. Nash then uses this chance to deliver a beating to Goldberg, climaxing in a big Jackknife Powerbomb that shakes the ring. Nash and Hall raise their hands as the crowd boos them, showering the ring with drink cups and garbage*

(93%; Kevin Nash and Scott Hall gained overness)

MT: This is quickly turning into a crazy night here in WCW. There's sneak attacks going on everywhere! And what can you say about Kevin Nash and Scott Hall's behavior?

DM: You can say that Nash is the World's Champion that's what you can say. And until Goldberg gets in that ring with Nash, that’s the way it's going to stay. Goldberg has to know that he's a target for The Outsiders right now.

MT: Goldberg may be a target now, but the only target at Superbrawl is going to be Kevin Nash. Now fans, this next match was scheduled to be the Tag Team Title match between featuring Kidman and Rey Mysterio, Jr., against Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko. But of course, you all saw what happened to Kidman in the back. We just received word that two important things have been decided about that event. First, Kidman is unable to compete tonight. Second, and this is very interesting, Eddie Guerrero left the building right after his interview earlier this evening.

DM: You see? So it COULDN'T have been Eddie. But what about the match, Tenay?

MT: I was coming to that. The WCW executive committee has named new #1 contenders for the Tag Team Titles. And they're supposed to be sending someone out to make the announcement any time now...

**Who's bettah than BANG?**

*On cue, the music of The Triad comes up, bring DDP and Kanyon out to a chorus of boos. They enter the ring slowly, with big smiles on their faces. Each has a mic*

Kanyon: Before we get started, I just have one thing to ask. WHO'S BETTAH THAN KANYON? *Crowd-EVERYBODY!* That's right, NOBODY.

DDP: Look, I'm gonna make this short and simple, so all you idiots out there can understand it. Thanks to Kidman's little "accident" in the back, there had to be new #1 contenders named for the Tag Team titles tonight. And who's more deserving of the shot, than DDP? Don't even bother to answer, there ain't NOBODY who deserves the shot more than me. So Benoit, Malenko, get you're scrawny butts out here, cause Kanyon and me are gonna kick 'em, right NOW. Oh wait wait, wait I almost forgot. Just to spice things up a little, we got the executive committee to give us a special stipulation for this match. It's gonna be a tag match alright. A HARDCORE tag match. Anything goes. So bring it Benoit, Malenko. Cause The Triad is ready.

(72%)

**Chris Benoit/Dean Malenko© vs. DDP/Kanyon; Hardcore match for the Tag Team titles**

DDP and Kanyon don't have long to wait, as Benoit and Malenko come running down the aisle. They jump in the ring, and the fight is one. All four men battle in the middle of the ring, brawling back and forth. Benoit and Malenko get the advantage as they clothesline their opponents over the top rope. The action continues on the outside, as DDP and Kanyon grab chairs to try to fight back Kanyon is successful in catching Malenko with the chair, and proceeds to use it to batter him on one side of the ring. Meanwhile, Benoit ducks the chairshot from DDP, and grabs the chair away, using it to his own advantage. After catching DDP with a hard shot that puts him down, he sees Malenko getting brutalized on the other side of the ring. He rolls back into the ring, then gets a running start and nails Kanyon's chair with a baseball slide dropkick, knocking the chair right into Kanyons head. Benoit soaks up the cheers from the crowd, but is soon back on the attack, as DDP gets back up to his feet. He attempts the same move Benoit used, but Benoit moves, then nails DDP again with the chair right to the head. By this point, Malenko is back up and starts to contribute to the beating by adding some stomps of his own. He rolls Kanyon back in the ring, and locks him in the Texas Cloverleaf, trying for a submission victory. However, DDP manages to get to his feet and block Benoit's chairshot with his own chair, before hitting Benoit in the stomach to put him down. He gets into the ring and blasts Malenko in the back with the chair, putting him down again. With Malenko down, DDP gets an idea. He goes back outside the ring and gets a table from ringside, dragging it back into the ring. As Kanyon struggles to his feet, Benoit is doing the same on the outside. He goes back into the ring, but is met by a Kanyon double axehandle. DDP sets up the table in the middle of the ring and makes a signal to Kanyon. They wait for Benoit to rise, the Kanyon grabs him, hoisting him up into a firemen’s carry position next to the table. He swings Benoit around like he going for a flapjack, but this is only have the move, as DDP comes from the other side and catches Benoit with a Diamond Cutter on the way down. This breaks the table, and puts Benoit out. With Benoit knocked out, DDP has any each chance to cover, while Kanyon prevents Malenko from even attempting a rescue by grabbing the chair and blasting him with it again. DDP covers, and the referee has no choice but to count the 1-2-3, and crown new Tag Team Champions!

*As the brutal match ends, DDP and Kanyon celebrate in the ring with their newly won title. The celebration is short-lived however, as none other than Rey Mysterio, Jr. comes sprinting down the aisle. He jumps up onto the ring apron, the springboards into the ring with a dropkick right to Kanyons chest. DDP is too slow to react, and Rey hops back up top for a hurricanrana on DDP. This offensive onslaught is too much for the new champs, and they scurry out of the ring as quickly as they can, with Rey pointing after them and shouting to them” You did it! You did it!"*

(79/82/95; *** ANOTHER ONE OF THOSE DAYS!!!!!; Diamond Dallas Page and Kanyon gained overness from this feud ending; Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko gained overness from this feud ending; the Tag Team Titles gained image)

MT: What a match! Those four men just put on one of the most brutal matches in the history of Monday Nitro! And to top it off, new Tag Team Champions!

DM: I agree, it was a great match. But I wanna know just what Rey Mysterio meant when said "You did it" to DDP and Kanyon.

MT: It sounds to me like maybe Rey Mysterio, Jr. knows something that we don't. Maybe it's concerning the attack to Kidman. Could be DDP and Kanyon are responsible for it, or at least Rey thinks so.

DM: Maybe so, but that STILL doesn't give him the right to come out here and interrupt the new champions in their moment of celebration. And after such a grueling match, too.

MT: Nevertheless fans, that truly was a fabulous match here on Nitro. All four men put everything they had into that one. Now coming up next...

DM: Wait a minute Tenay, it's my turn now. Coming up next, we're gonna hear from Scott Steiner, concerning his actions in recent weeks.

**Scott Steiner...Hey, it must be the money?**

*We cut to a pre-taped interview, where Scott Steiner is talking to someone off camera. We hear the interviewer ask him why he decided to team up with Bret Hart*

Scott Steiner: Team up? Is that what you think this is about? Me and Bret Hart becoming buddies? Hell no, that's not what this is about. This is about me being a businessman. And Bret Hart, as a businessman, came to me and offered me a large sum of money to take out some trash for him. And I did it. It wasn't my fault that Ric Flair cheated to beat me. Hell, I had already beaten him so bad he could barely stand up. And it doesn't matter if I won or lost. I got paid to do a job. Beat the hell out of Ric Flair. And I did it. Just like, on Nitro, I got paid to beat the hell out of Sting. And I'm gonna do THAT too. So Stinger, we used to be friends. But this ain't about friendship no more. This is about my bankroll. And my bankroll tells me that tonight, you're going down.

(73%)

DM: Sounds like a reasonable explanation to me.

MT: Are you kidding? Steiner doing Bret Hart's dirty work, all for the sake of a payout? I have to say, I'm extremely disappointed in Scott Steiner.

DM: You can be disappointed all you like Tenay, but like Scott Steiner said, he's a businessman. And tonight, his business is taking Sting out.

MT: That's going to be easier said than done, Dave. Coming up next though fans, we have an exciting moment here on Nitro. We're going to see a young man get his first shot at a title here in WCW. Chris Daniels has certainly impressed a lot of folks with his performances on television and on our tour stops as of late, and he's been rewarded by being given a shot at Chris Jericho's Television Title.

DM: You know, I have mixed feelings about this match. On one hand, I think that Chris Daniels is the future, not only of WCW, but also of this business. On the other hand, Chris Jericho is another man who can lead WCW into the future. This should be a great contest.

MT: No doubt Dave. Let's go to t he ring now for all the action.

**Chris Jericho© vs. Chris Daniels; Television Title match**

The challenger is greeted by a nice reaction from the fans, and shows his appreciation by slapping hands as he comes down the aisle. Jericho on the other hand is not greeted as warmly. The fans can't forget his actions the past few weeks, boo him mercilessly. The match gets underway with some quick reversals form both men, ending in a standoff that draws applause from the crowd. They go into another reversal sequence that ends with Daniels hitting Jericho with a dropkick. Jericho doesn't appreciate this, slaps Daniels across the face, which cause Daniels to bounce off the ropes. He uses his momentum to hit ANOTHER dropkick to Jericho, sending him outside the ring. Daniels tries to follow with a plancha, but Jericho anticipates this and moves out of the way, allowing Daniels to crash onto the floor. Jericho takes advantage of this mistake, sending him back into the ring and following him with his own dropkick, this time from the top rope. Jericho showboats however, and can't get the pin. Jericho keeps up the pressure, using some of the moves he learned in Japan to keep Daniels down, including a nice Lionsault. Jericho pauses between each move however to taunt and play to the crowd, which almost results in his downfall. When Jericho tries his "Arrogant Cover", Daniels grabs his foot, and uses it to shift Jericho's balance until he falls to the ground. With both men down, it's a race to see who gets up first. In the end, Jericho rises first, but misses when he tried for a spinning heel kick. Daniels come back with a springboard crossbody, and looks to have the match almost won. However, when he goes for his Double Underhook Powerbomb, Jericho counters with a low blow. This allows him to roll Daniels up with a small package and pull the tights to get the cheap win.

*Jericho tries for his usual post match beating, but it is broken up as Booker T comes down the aisle to Daniels rescue. Jericho sees Booker coming, and bails out, leaving through the crowd.*

(75/74/95 ; **3/4 )

MT: It's a shame that someone as talented as Chris Jericho has to resort to measures like that to win his matches.

DM: I'm not so sure. Jericho is above all things, a very smart man. He's going to use every trick he can to hold onto that title, ESPECIALLY with Booker T getting another show at Superbrawl.

MT: Hopefully Booker T will be able to face Jericho in a one on one setting, with no tricks from Jericho. I'm already looking forward to that rematch. Now fans, we come to the main event of the evening. We heard Scott Steiner say earlier that Bret Hart paid him money to take out Sting tonight. Will he be able to do it? Let's find out, NEXT!

**Sting vs. Scott Steiner**

Both men are quick to enter the ring, with Sting taking a little more time to play to the crowd. The crowd is on the edge of their seats of the two lock-up. They push each other around for a few minutes, with Steiner showing his power by hurling Sting into the corner. Another lock-up produces the same result. The third time, Sting ducks the lock-up, choosing instead to nail Steiner with some big right hands to start to action off. Sting uses this early advantage to catch Steiner with several high impact moves, including a big powerslam and back bodydrop. Steiner fights back using his own strength and a variety of suplexes. He catches Sting with a released German Suplex that almost folds Sting in half. The advantage is short-lived however, as Sting won't stay down. The entire match continues along these lines, with both men having the edge at various points. Sting hits Steiner with a Stinger Splash in the corner, but Steiner powers out of a Scorpion deathlock attempt. Steiner is not able to lock on the Steiner Recliner however, as Sting manages to get to his knees, then to his feet, and drives Steiner backwards into the corner. With both men exhausted, the referee starts the 10 count. Sting is back to his feet at 8, catching Steiner on the way up with more right hands and some "martial arts" chops, which knock Steiner into the corner. Sting whips him to the other corner, following up with a Stinger Splash. The crowd’s attention is distracted at this point. as Bret Hart comes walking down to the ring Sting doesn't see him, and whips Steiner back to the other corner. When he tries to follow in with another Stinger Splash, Steiner pulls the referee partially in the way, leaving him semi-squashed between the two men. Hart seizes the opportunity and jumps in the ring after having grabbed a chair from ringside. As Sting turns around, he is blasted with the chair, knocking him out cold. Hart revives the ref as Steiner rolls Sting over and puts him in the Steiner Recliner. As the referee looks up, he sees Sting passed out in the Recliner and calls for the bell, giving the win to Scott Steiner.

*Hart and Steiner continue their assault on Sting in the ring, using the chair to nail him in the back and legs. At one point, Steiner holds Sting up for Hart to hit him in the head. They are not able to finish their plan however, as the audience erupts at the entrance of Ric Flair. He comes down to the ring, and Hart panics, throwing the chair at him as he quickly exits. Flair catches the chair, and uses it to nail a charging Scott Steiner right in the head. Hart backs up the aisle, as Flair bangs the chair against the mat, daring Hart to come inside the ring*

(72/85/73; **3/4; Scott Steiner gained overness)

MT: What an ending to tonight's Nitro! Ric Flair is in the ring, begging Bret Hart to get inside!

DM: You know something Tenay? One of these days, those two men are going to be face to face in the squared circle in a match, and I want to be there when it happens!

MT: Me too, Dave! That will be an explosive night, whenever it happens. That’s all for tonight fans, thank you for joining us, and remember to tune in to Thunder for more great WCW action Good night!

**We close with a shot of Ric Flair helping Sting to his feet in the ring, as he glares down the aisle at the still retreating Hart**

Overall: 73

[Commander Sheepard]

Tuesday, February 9th:

*Well, here I am again. In my office. With Sophie. Just sitting here. Waiting for her to finish talking to her cousin Mindy. Sigh...ahh Mindy...Anyway, she's looks to be about finished, and personally, I can't wait to hear the reaction to last nights show*

Sophie: Alright, it was good talking to you too. Yes, I'll tell him.

Me: Tell him what?

Sophie: Bye now. Oh Mindy just said to tell you hi.

Me: Tell her I said hi too.

Sophie: Too late, I already hung up. Besides, we have more important things to discuss right now.

Me: True. So what's the bad news?

Sophie: Actually, it's GOOD news. The show got a 73% approval rating, which I KNOW is a little below what you wanted. But it just seemed like kind of an off night, so I don't think it's too bad. Also, we scored a 5.70 in the ratings. Once again, we stave off being kicked off the network.

Me: Good, I was getting worried about that. You're right, I WAS hoping for a higher approval rating, but all things considered, not too shabby.

Sophie: Not at all. And the fans in attendance really seemed to enjoy the show.

Me: Good. I was afraid, since we had some stretches of interviews and backstage stuff, that we would lose them.

Sophie: I don't think we did. Or if we did, the perked up for the matches. Besides, everyone really seems to be getting into Nash/Goldberg and Flair/Hart. Not to MENTION the reactions that Chris Jericho is getting. Him and Booker T just might steal the show at Superbrawl you know.

Me: I know. That's why I went with another match for them. After the match they put on last time, I think they deserve it. And I'm hoping they can duplicate it.

Sophie: I do have to ask, what were you THINKING by putting Kidman in that "skit" to act hurt?

Me: I don't know, I just thought that rolling around on the floor acting hurt doesn't require great charisma. Guess I was wrong.

Sophie: Unfortunately, I have to agree. That almost killed the show right there. But the Tag Title match saved the whole thing later. By the way, we got an e-mail from a fan asking that we put up a roster list of everybody under contract. Do you want to do it?

Me: Naw, too long. Send him an e-mail back thought, if he wants it. And maybe I'll put up a list on the website later, just for kicks.

Sophie: Gotcha. Oh, one other thing. Jericho is asking, politely I might add, to be moved up the card. What should I tell him?

Me: Tell him it's a go. I really want to get behind him with a major push. I think that he may be world championship material in the not too distant future. that's why I'm trying to give him a little more of an "edge" right now.

Sophie: I know, and I think it's working. Anyway, I need to run and talk to the development booker to find out what he has planned for some of or new signee's.

Me: Yeah, do that. I really want these guys to get a good solid base of interview and performing skills. I think we've got a good crew.

Sophie: Me too. So, let me run. I'll be back later to get the booking sheet for Thunder.

Me: It'll be ready. Have fun.

Sophie: OH yeah, ha ha ha. Bye for now.

Me: Bye.

*Sophie leaves. So I'm again alone. Thunder is coming up in a few days, and I really want a great show and great rating to impress the network. Guess I'd better get to work then...*

WCW.com has released the following preview for tomorrow nights edition of Thunder:

- Rey Mysterio, Jr. takes on an unknown member of The Triad in retaliation for their alleged attack against Kidman on Nitro!

- Eddie Guerrero defends his cruiserweight title against Lash Leroux!

- A special interview with Rick Steiner, as he explains his actions from this past Monday!

- And in our main event, Chris Jericho teams up with Buff Bagwell to take on Booker T and Chris Daniels!

- Plus more of the great action you can only find in WCW!

[Commander Sheepard]

Thursday, February 11th:

Thunder!

*Blaring music and tons o' pyro fill the air as 6521 people rise to their feet and cheer for the beginning of another episode of Thunder. We go immediately to the ring for our first match of the evening*

**Yoshohiro Tajiri vs. Juventud Guerrera**

As the match gets underway, our announcers Mike Tenay and Dusty Rhodes explain that Eddie Guerrero has asked Eric Bischoff to give him some "real competition" so Bischoff has decided to let some of the cruiserweight show their stuff in order to potentially gain a title shot in the near future. The action is fast paced, with both men controlling at various points. In the end, Tajiri pulls off the upset when he sprays green mist in Juvi's eyes while the referee's back is turned. He nails him with a brainbuster to pick up the win.

*After the match, Tajiri gives Juvi a huge kick to the head as Juvi tries to stand*

(68/55/81; **1/2)

We go to ringside for the official introduction of our announcers, "Iron" Mike Tenay, and "The Bull of the Woods, Fruit of My Loins Tony if ya weeeeeeelllll" Dusty Rhodes. They discuss the events of Monday Nitro, before throwing us backstage for an interview.

**Jericho and Bagwell lay out the challenge**

We see Television Champ Chris Jericho and Buff Bagwell in the back, as they talk about their tag match with Booker T and Chris Daniels. Jericho informs everyone that he picked Buff as his partner because they are the only two men who have had the skill to defeat Daniels. He promises to duplicate this feat tonight. Bagwell doesn't say much, preferring to pose in the background.

(84%)

After briefly discussing the interview, we go to the ring as Kanyon comes down the aisle...

**Who's bettah than Kanyon? Maybe Mysterio**

Kanyon grabs a mic and proceeds to call out Rey Mysterio, Jr. He say's that Rey's attack on The Triad on Nitro was un-called for, and that's why he told DDP that HE wanted to be the one to face Rey tonight. HE tells Rey to get out here, right NOW!

(74%)

**Kanyon vs. Re Mysterio, Jr.**

Rey comes sprinting to the ring as Tenay fills us in on what brought about this match. Rey matches his speed up against Kanyon's "innovative" offense, and the match is extremely well put together as a result. After a flurry of moves, Rey catches Kanyon with a flying hurricanrana from the top rope to put him down for the three count.

*Rey can't celebrate for long however, as DDP soon comes running down to ringside, blindsiding Rey with a Clothesline and following up with a Diamond Cutter. Kanyon adds an I'm Bettah Than You for good measure, and the two members of The Triad leave, satisfied with their dirty work.*

(78/69/88; ***)

Tenay and Rhodes talk some about the previous match, then inform us that coming up next is a video for a new debuting WCW superstar. The only thing is, no one knows WHO the superstar IS!

**Video for ?**

We are shown a video, filled with sights of men and women going through tortuous training regimens, running, jumping rope, lifting weights, and swimming. We see the sweat pour off of them and the strain on their faces. The scene then shifts to show them "performing" at their various endeavors, with each one winning his or her event. The end of the video shows the words: Pride. Coming soon to WCW.

(92% ; gained overness)

Our fearless announcers discuss just who the video could be referring to, but come to the consensus that whoever it is has a lot to live up to based strictly on that one video. They then throw to the ring for the next match, a Cruiserweight Title match.

**Eddie Guerrero© vs. Lash Leroux; Cruiserweight Title match**

As could be expected, Eddie uses every cheap trick in the book to dominate this match, although Lash fights back valiantly, finally managing to get some close pins on the champ. In the end however, Eddie catches him with a dropkick as Lash tries a crossbody from the top rope. This puts Lash down long enough for Eddie to go up top and hit a big Frog Splash for the victory.

*As he grabs his belt, Eddie looks in the camera and says" You see Eric Bischoff? I need some REAL competition!*

(78/72/85; ***; Cruiserweight Title gained image)

After putting over what a great match that was, Tenay goes to the ring to interview Rick Steiner. He vows to get an explanation on why Rick turned his back on his tag team partner.

**Rick Steiner explains it all**

Tenay is soon joined by Steiner, who gets a noticeably negative reaction from the fans. He tells Tenay that ever since he came into WCW, he's been one of the top dogs. And one day not too long ago he realized that he was teaming with a guy who couldn't even carry his jock on his WORST day. So he decided that just like anybody else, when the trash starts to stink, you take it out. He says that now that he dumped his dead weight, he's going to be back on top, alone if he has too. But he says that he may not have to go it alone...

(74%)

As Tenay rejoins Dusty, they talk wonder about what Rick Steiner meant when he said he might not have to go it alone. After debating on this for a few minutes, Rhodes announces that it's time for the main event, if ya weeeeeelll...

**Chris Jericho/Buff Bagwell vs. Booker T/Chris Daniels**

The action starts with the opening bell and doesn't let up the entire time, as all four men are in the ring at various points, hitting each other with everything they have. The end of the match occurs when Jericho is trying to hold Daniels for Buff to nail him. Daniels moves however, and Buff hits Jericho. Booker takes out Buff with a Harlem Sidekick, and this leave Daniels the chance to catch Jericho with a Double Underhook Powerbomb(gotta think of a NAME for this move, any help?) for the surprise 1-2-3!

*The action doesn't stop with the bell ringing, as after Jericho manages to get to his feet, all four men continue brawling, spilling out into the ringside area as the fans cheer wildly*

(84/78/91; ***1/4)

Tenay and Rhodes tell us to tune into Nitro, as they have word that Goldberg, Ric Flair, Bret Hart, and Sting will all be there!

*As the cameras fade, Bagwell, Jericho, Daniels and Booker T continue to fight up the aisle, heading towards the back. Who knows how long it will last...*

Overall: 79

[Commander Sheepard]

Friday, February 12th:

*Here I am, in my office. Again. But at least Sophie is here. And apparently she has good news. I'm just waiting for her to get her papers organized*

Sophie: Alright, I think I've got everything I need now. So anyway, where were we?

Me: You were going to tell me about last night Thunder. The stat sheet and all, remember?

Sophie: Right, the stat sheet. Umm, ok, well, as far as the audience goes, we got a 79% approval rating. Everybody seemed to really be "on" last night, and it definitely showed in how the crowd responded to the matches. I especially thought the tag main event was well done.

Me: Me too. Of course, like you said, everybody seemed to really be hitting their stride last night. Hope everybody can continue with that for the next few weeks. I really want Superbrawl to be a blow-away show. What about the TV ratings?

Sophie: Well, they're back up. We scored a 2.10 last night, which is higher than the past few weeks. The network is of course very pleased.

Me: Great, I was beginning to worry about Thunder. I mean, the ratings probably will NEVER be a high as Nitro, but I don't want them to get TOO low. I really think that we can use Thunder to push some lesser-known guys.

Sophie: I think so too. As a matter of fact, I think that the way things have been going, with the mixture of established stars and newcomers is the right path. And as long as the audience is happy, I think Mr. Turner will be happy.

Me: And as long as Mr. turner is happy, then I'M happy. By the way, what was the attendance for Thunder?

Sophie: 6,521. It was a good crowd. And the best part is, everybody seemed to enjoy themselves, and we had SEVERAL people ask on their questionnaires when the next time we might we coming through is. So I'd take that as a good sign.

Me: No doubt. Oh, also, did you talk to Bischoff yet?

Sophie: Not yet. I think that, since you gave him a week off, he went out of the country on a trip. I left a message to call you when he gets back.

Me: Thanks Sophie. I really need to go over with him his interview for Nitro. I want it to be good, since I'm gonna be using it to fill out the card for Superbrawl. Sophie, you've seen the proposed card. What do you think?

Sophie: I think it can be a very good show. I think that the audience will respond. And I KNOW that they should be happy with the results of at least a few of the matches.

Me: Good, that's what I'm hoping for. I want to promote Superbrawl as one of the "big" shows for WCW. And I'm hoping that we can get that feeling across to the audience.

Sophie: I think they're getting the picture. What with Goldberg and Nash already announced, Booker T taking on Jericho again, and ESPECIALLY with a couple of the matches you're announcing on Nitro, I think everyone will be pleased.

Me: I just hope you're right.

Sophie: I know I am. I have faith in you.

Me: Thanks, Sophie, that means a lot to me. Of course, if Mr. Turner doesn't like the show, then I have faith that it won't MATTER if you have faith in me or not.

Sophie: Oh, I'm sure he'll like it. By the way, I got word that he may want to meet with you sometime soon. I think he wants to talk over "old times" with you, plus give you his thoughts on the state of the company so far.

Me: Great. Now I won't be able to sleep. Thanks a lot Sophie.

Sophie: I'm sorry. Just thought you should know.

Me: It's OK; I guess I'm just nervous. I really want to do a good job. I'm just glad all the guys seem to be behind me. And hey, even Bischoff seems to be in agreement with the direction of the company.

Sophie: Would it matter if he wasn't?

Me: MMM, no, not really. Ha ha ha, but it's still nice to have everyone on the same page. Speaking of which, let me get finished WRITING the pages of the booking sheet for Nitro. I'll let you know when I'm done.

Sophie: Sure thing. If you need anything else, you know where to find me.

*With that, Sophie leaves. I know I need to get to work on Nitro. This needs to be a good show to set up some of the big matches for Superbrawl. But I'm confident that I can do it. After all, what’s the worst that could happen? Besides being fired of course. Wait, that IS the worst that would happen. I'd better get going...*

WCW.com, in conjunction with WCW the Magazine has released the following preview for the February 15th edition of Nitro:

- Eddie Guerrero defends his Cruiserweight Title against Dean Malenko!-

- Buff Bagwell tries to get revenge on Booker T after the events on Thunder!-

- Chris Jericho takes on Chris Daniels again in a rematch for the Television Title!-

Plus:

- Eric Bischoff speaks concerning the upcoming Superbrawl PPV!-

All this and more, only on Nitro! Don't miss a second of the action!

[Commander Sheepard]

Monday, February 15th:

Nitro!

*As the opening music for Nitro plays and the pyro explodes, we are taken immediately to the ring for a match, which is announced as a Cruiserweight Title match between Eddie Guerrero and former WCW Tag Team champion Dean Malenko*

**Eddie Guerrero© vs. Dean Malenko; Cruiserweight Title match**

Both men make their way to the ring, with Dean looking very focused and, of course, stone faced. Eddie plays to the crowd more as he walks down the aisle, seeming to enjoy their taunts and boo's. Once in the ring however, he is also all business. The two men go at it immediately, exchanging holds and counter holds almost faster than the eye can move. Dean gets the advantage when he catches Eddie with a big back bodydrop coming off the ropes. He tries to press his advantage by slapping on various leg submission holds, but Eddie won't quit. Dean uses a knee crusher, followed up by a dragon screw leg whip to put Eddie down, but when he slaps on the Texas Cloverleaf, Eddie reaches the ropes. As Dean tries to move in for the kill, Eddie uses a thumb to the eyes to gain control. He runs through some of his faster paced offense, but seems to be having trouble with his leg. This is proven true when he goes up top for a Frog Splash but collapses onto the turnbuckle. Dean goes to the corner and is obviously about to attempt a superplex, when suddenly Eddie's nephew Chavo Guerrero, Jr. comes running down to ringside. He jumps up on the ring apron right as Dean goes to superplex Eddie off the top. Chavo grabs Eddie's foot, keeping him from falling, but letting Malenko crash to the floor. Eddie then manages to somehow finish Dean off with a Frog Splash, although it takes him a moment to cover, as the impact jars his knee. He does manage to finally cover Malenko, and get the 3 count.

*After the match, Eddie and Chavo attack Dean Malenko, kicking and stomping at him in the corner. Soon they are forced to flee however, as Kidman comes running down the aisle to a big reaction from the crowd. Eddie and Chavo leave the ring quickly, but don't leave ringside. Instead, Eddie grabs a mic...*

(78/78/96; ***; Cruiserweight Title gained image)

**Eddie makes a challenge**

*Eddie grabs the mic and gets as close to the ring as he dares, staying just out of Kidman's reach*

Eddie: Hey hey hey, slow down their man. Listen essa, who the hell do you think you are? Huh? Coming down here, interfering in MY business? I'm the cruiserweight champion essa. You're just a nobody, a little man who got his butt kicked last week before his match. That's pretty sad essa. To get you butt kicked BEFORE you get in the ring. That sounds like something my GRANDMA would be able to do, essa. Listen, Kidman, I've had it up to HERE with you man. So here's what it's gonna be. Eric Bischoff, if you're listening in the back, I want you to make a match. At Superbrawl, let me get MY hands on this little punk Kidman. Cause Kidman, essa, I'm gonna rip you to pieces.

*Eddie throws down the mic and limps out, with Chavo helping support him. Kidman stands in the ring and keeps nodding yes and yelling for Eddie to "Not wait until Superbrawl"*

(93%; Eddie Guerrero gained overness)

*With that, we now "officially" join our announcers at ringside*

Mike Tenay: What a way to begin a Monday Nitro! I'm still out of breath from that last sequence of events. Fans, we're so glad you joined us this evening for WCW Monday Nitro. I'm Mike Tenay, and with me of course, my broadcast partner and friend...

Dave Meltzer: Don't push it Tenay. They know who I am. Right now I'm more concerned with what happened inside that ring. Eddie Guerrero, the cruiserweight champion, just issued a challenge to Kidman for Superbrawl in two weeks. But you saw him limping Tenay. I have to question if Eddie will be READY by Superbrawl.

MT: Well, you can say what you like about Eddie Guerrero's tactics, but even I can't deny that he is a fighting champion.

DM: That's right Tenay, a fighting champion ALWAYS is ready for a match. I'm just not sure that Eddie's KNEE is ready for a match.

MT: Hopefully it will be all right, because Eddie Guerrero versus Kidman for the cruiserweight title could be a CLASSIC if it goes down at Superbrawl.

DM: You're absolutely right, Tenay. Two of the best cruisers in the world, for that title? I hope Eddie is ready.

MT: Well fans, that's not all we have for you tonight, not by a long shot. Hopefully you all visited our website, www.wcw.com, and read the preview for tonight's Nitro. We still have Chris Jericho and Chris Daniels-part two tonight, as well as Booker T taking on Buff Bagwell in a match that Bagwell requested.

DM: And coming up right now, a match that, well, let's just say I don't think was REQUESTED by at least one of the participants.

MT: You're right, Dave. Fans, coming up next, Rick Steiner will be taking on his former tag team partner, Kenny Kaos. Rick Steiner asked for this match, so that he could, and I quote: "Beat the hell out of that punk for all the crap he put me through." Harsh words form Rick Steiner.

DM: Harsh, but true Tenay. Kaos was holding Rick Steiner back. And now, it's time for some payback.

MT: Let's head back to the ring for more action.

**Rick Steiner vs. Kenny Kaos**

Kaos arrives to a very small reaction, as not many people seem to be behind him. They do however give a larger, albeit negative reaction to Rick Steiner. The match begins, and quickly degenerates into a brutal beating of Kaos at the hands of Rick Steiner. Steiner tosses Kaos around the ring with ease, giving him several huge belly-to-belly and German suplexes. Kaos does manage a brief spurt of offense, even managing to come off the top rope with a cross body. Steiner kicks out easily however, and nearly takes Kaos' head off with a huge Steinerline. After several more suplexes and Steinerlines, Steiner goes up to the top rope himself, and catches Kaos from behind with a Top Rope Steinerdog. This is more than enough to put Kaos down for an easy three.

*Even though the match has ended, Rick Steiner continues to pummel Kaos with right hands and stomps, before delivering another belly-to-belly suplex. He then goes back up top to deliver ANOTHER Top Rope Steinerdog, before finally exiting the ring, leaving Kaos in a lump in the center.*

(49/52/58; 1/2*)

MT: What an absolute brutal beating by Rick Steiner to Kenny Kaos. I wouldn't be surprised if Kaos is seriously injured after that MAULING Rick Steiner gave him.

DM: All I can say is, I'm glad it was Kaos and not me. Rick Steiner is an animal in that ring, and nobody, and I mean NOBODY can throw those clotheslines and suplexes like him. It'll be a while before we see Kaos in a WCW ring I think.

MT: I think you're right Dave. And now fans, let's take a look a soon to be debuting superstar in WCW. We saw a video for him on Thunder, but the problem is, is that we STILL don't know who this superstar is. Dave, any thoughts?

DM: I've got some ideas, Tenay. But I don't know any more than you do. Let's let these people take a look and decide for themselves.

**Video about ?**

*A video, similar to the one played on Thunder is shown. Pictures of men and women competing, grappling, running, fighting, giving their all, are followed by more pictures showing the sweet pleasure of winning. Streets filled with people screaming as their hero's go by in parades, and shots of various athletes and other achievers shaking hands with presidents are show. Finally, one picture is shown on the screen, of a young man in a military uniform shaking the presidents hand is shown, as a crowd of people cheer in the background. Then these words fill the screen: Honor. Coming soon to WCW.*

(80%)

MT: Well fans, even after that, we STILL have no idea about who this debuting superstar might be, or WHEN we might see him.

DM: Like I said, Tenay, I have some ideas on who it might be. Eric Bischoff is gonna make sure it's somebody good though, you can bet on that.

MT: And speaking of Eric Bischoff...

DM: Another nice segue way Tenay.

MT: Thank you. Speaking of Eric Bischoff, we've just received word that he'll be joining us in the ring, right now!

**Bischoff makes the matches**

*The sounds of Bischoff's music fill the air, as the fans rise to their feet in anticipation of what announcements he might be making. He steps out onto the stage, with a mic in hand of course, and begins to speak*

Eric Bischoff: Thank you, thank you. You know, a few weeks ago, when Kevin Nash powerbombed me off this very stage, it made me realize something. You see, there’s been a lot of things’ going on in WCW. A lot of people, going into business for themselves, you might say. And quite frankly, I'm TIRED of it. I'm tired of sitting back and letting things become chaos all around me. So I decided that I was going to DO something about it. And it starts here tonight. I've decided to use my executive power to make some matches, to let some of these superstars go one on one to clear the air. Therefore, let’s start off with the cruiserweight champion. You all heard Eddie Guerrero challenge Kidman for the Cruiserweight Title earlier this evening. Well, I'm GRANTING that match. At Superbrawl, Eddie Guerrero WILL defend his Cruiserweight Title against Kidman. However, this leaves me with a little dilemma. You see, I was going to let Kidman and Rey Mysterio, Jr take on The Triad for the Tag Titles in retaliation for their attack on Kidman. But with Kidman challenging for the Cruiserweight Title, we're going to have to alter those plans. Instead, Rey Mysterio, Jr will take on Diamond Dallas Page in a one on one match. And if Rey Mysterio wins, then the next night on Nitro, Mysterio and Kidman WILL receive their shot at the Tag Team Titles. Now, moving on to a match that, personally, I've wanted to see for the past several weeks. Back a few weeks ago, Ric Flair challenged Bret Hart. And since that time, Bret Hart has been constantly ducking Ric Flair's challenge. Well, that ends NOW. Because, as Superbrawl, Bret Hart has AGREED to wrestle Ric Flair, one on one, in the ring. However, before any of you get too excited, there IS a catch. Bret Hart agreed to this match on one condition. You see, as Bret is the United States Champion, I had decided to make the match for the title. But in order for Bret to agree to the match, I had to agree to one certain stipulation. And that stipulation is this: Tonight, in that ring, Ric Flair will take on another mystery opponent. I gave Bret full control to choose whomever he wants. And if Ric Flair can defeat his mystery opponent, then the U.S Title will be on the line at Superbrawl. If HE is defeated, then the match is non-title. But either way, I know personally, I'm looking forward to seeing two of the best wrestlers ever. And on that note ladies and gentlemen, I'll be leaving you for the evening. Enjoy the rest of the show.

*Bischoff leaves to an excited buzz from the audience who are in great anticipation of the matches he has just announced*

(79%)

MT: What a set of announcements from Eric Bischoff! Three great matches announced for Superbrawl, and ESPECIALLY the Bret Hart-Ric Flair match. That’s one match I've been looking forward to for a LONG time now. But who can the mystery opponent be tonight?

DM: Who knows? Bischoff didn't even seem like HE knows who it is. But whoever it is, you know if Bret Hart picked them, it'll be somebody good.

MT: Fans that will be coming up later in the evening. But coming up next...

**DA MAN is HERE!**

*Tenay is once again interrupted in mid-sentence, as we suddenly cut to the back. We see a car arrive, and a large man steps out. It's GOLDBERG! The fans erupt, as Goldberg asks a nearby crew member if he's seen Kevin Nash. The man answers in the affirmative, and Goldberg thanks him, before stalking off in the direction indicated by the crew member.*

(92%)

DM: I wonder what Goldberg wants with Kevin Nash. Those two men meet up at Superbrawl for the World Title, in match that's been building for the past several months. But what's going to happen if they meet up TONIGHT?

MT: Whatever it is, you know it'll be intense. Those two men have a great amount of bitterness toward each other, and it's sure to be an explosion WHENEVER they meet. But now fans, as I was saying before we cut away, coming up next we have Buff Bagwell taking on Booker T. This is a match requested by Buff, in retaliation for what happened on Thunder this past week.

DM: These are two of the bright young stars of WCW here, Tenay. And we know that Booker will be going for the Television Title against Jericho at Superbrawl, so this will be a good warm-up match for him. Of course, you never know what Jericho may have up his sleeve.

MT: Very true Dave. Jericho has proven to be able to accomplish exactly what he wants recently. We'll have to see if he gets involved with this match tonight. And that match is coming up now!

**Booker T vs. Buff Bagwell**

Bagwell and Booker make their way quickly out to the ring to opposite reactions from the crowd. The two tear into each other quickly, exchanging blows in the middle of the ring. Buff uses some underhanded tactics to take control, and proceeds to keep Booker down with some basic maneuvers including a nicely executed swinging neckbreaker and an inverted atomic drop. He throws Booker into the corner, but misses a charge and hits the turnbuckle. Booker takes over with some lightning fast kicks, knocking Buff off his feet. Booker attempts a cover, but only manages a two count. Bagwell uses a low blow to take the advantage back, but can't capitalize as Booker fights right back with some chops. The two exchange blows again in the middle of the ring, but Buff misses a clothesline attempt and walks right into a Harlem Sidekick, which puts him down on the canvas. Booker goes up top, and nails a Harlem Hangover onto the prone Bagwell, which keeps him down long enough for the referee to count 1-2-3.

*Booker does not have a chance to celebrate for long however, because as soon as the referee raises his hand, Chris Jericho jumps out of the crowd and runs into the ring holding a chair. He blasts Booker in the back with it, then proceeds to pummel him repeatedly on the head and back area, before pulling back and nailing a HUGE shot across Booker T's head, which busts him open. As Booker lays knocked out on the mat, Jericho grabs a mic, and speaks to the fallen wrestler.*

(76/83/87; ***)

**Jericho digs it in**

Chris Jericho: You see this Booker? You see this chair? That's what put you down. That's what beat you for the Television Title at Genesis. And THAT'S what's gonna keep you down at Superbrawl. Because you know something Booker? There's no way in HELL that you're gonna beat me for the Title at Superbrawl. And there's no way, and I mean NO way that you're EVER going to get your hands on this belt again. Because I'M better than YOU. And there's nothing you can do to change that. Booger, I'll see you at Superbrawl. Now bring out that idiot Daniels, so I can finish what I started the last time.

(98% ; Jericho gained overness)

**Chris Jericho© vs. Chris Daniels; Television Title match**

Jericho doesn't have long to wait, as Daniels comes running out to the ring as officials take Booker out of the ring. Daniels and Jericho go at it face to face, exchanging blows back and forth. They then segue into a series of chain wrestling, with neither man getting a clear advantage. After a breathtaking sequence of moves, Jericho gets the advantage with a thumb to the eyes. He proceeds to use some of his fast paced moves, including a nice springboard dropkick to keep Daniels form getting to his feet. Daniels ducks another attempt at a dropkick however, and takes control himself. HE uses all of his innovative moves to wow the crowds and take Jericho down. He almost gets the win with his OWN springboard move, this one a springboard clothesline. Jericho kicks out however, preserving his title. Jericho and Daniels then both go for a dropkick at the same time, which manages to knock them both out. As the ref starts the 10 count, Booker T walks slowly back down to ringside and starts pounding on the mat, cheering on Chris Daniels. Both men slowly rise to their feet, and start trading punches back and forth again. The crowd starts to get behind Daniels as he begins to gain momentum. He whips Jericho into the ropes and gives him a big dropkick to the chin. He picks Jericho up and goes for the Double Underhook Powerbomb. Jericho blocks with a low blow however, which draws the referee over. He attempts to admonish Jericho, but gets pushed away. When he goes back to warn Jericho, Daniels pushes him back away again so that he can get to Jericho. The ref tries one more time, but gets pushed away by both men, leaving him no choice but to call for the double DQ.

*Jericho and Daniels continue to brawl, but are soon broken apart by Booker T. Surprisingly, he backs Daniels away from Jericho and seems to be trying to calm him down. He reveals his true intentions as he turns around and nails Jericho with a spinning kick that knocks Jericho right out of the ring. The fans cheer enthusiastically as Booker and Daniels celebrate in the ring*

(79/84/95 ; ***; Television Title gained image)

MT: What a great match, ruined by that kind of ending. Things continue to heat up between Jericho and Booker T leading up to their re-match at Superbrawl.

DM: I have to say, I may be looking forward to that match more than just about any other. Those two men stole the show at Genesis, and they look like they're poised to do it again at Superbrawl. And Chris Daniels continues to prove why he's the future of wrestling, as he matched Jericho move for move in that match.

MT: You're absolutely right, Dave. Daniels has proven time and time again that he's got what it takes to compete against the best in the business. It's only a matter of time before he gets his hands on some gold.

DM: Hold on Tenay, I just got notice in my headset that apparently Goldberg has FOUND Kevin Nash's dressing room. Let's see if we can get a camera back there...

**Clash of the Titans**

*We cut backstage to see Goldberg walking up to Kevin Nash's locker room. He doesn't bother to knock, instead deciding to kick in the door. He storms into the room, only to find Nash not there. He looks around in anger, then turns to leave. As he does so, another door opens and Nash emerges, hitting Goldberg from behind. He starts to beat on Goldberg, but Goldberg fights back, and the two men quickly destroy the dressing room as they throw each other around the room. A flood of officials fills the room to break the two men apart, but the fighting still continues. Finally, they are separated, but are obviously still straining to get to each other. They yell across the room at each other, but finally Goldberg is escorted from the room.*

(87%)

DM: It's like you said Tenay, Goldberg and Nash met up and they EXPLODED.

MT: I can't WAIT until those two men get into the ring together. With all the hatred they have for each other, I wonder if one ring can contain it all.

DM: We'll find out at Superbrawl. But now, we're going to find out just WHO the mystery opponent that Bret Hart picked out for Ric Flair is.

MT: That's right fans, we're going to find out in the ring, with a shot at the U.S. Title on the line, NEXT!

**Ric Flair vs. ?**

Flair makes his way out to a large reaction from the crowd, who seem to be in great anticipation of who his opponent might be. Some familiar music fills the arena, and out walks... Chris Benoit? The crowd seems confused as to why this former Horsemen member is coming out to take on his former teammate. Benoit doesn't seem very pleased with the situation. As he makes his way into the ring, he walks over to Flair, and can be heard explaining that he's doing this against his wishes, but that there wasn't anything he could do to avoid the match. Flair doesn't seem happy, but tells Benoit that he doesn't blame him. The two men shake hands, and the match begins. As can be expected, it soon turns into a chop-fest, with both men blistering the other's chest. Benoit does manage to grab a headlock and take Flair down on the mat eventually, and the two men work form there in a short series of reversals and pin attempts. Benoit keeps on the offensive with a big clothesline and backdrop suplex that almost earns him the victory. Flair comes back with some more chops, then dives for Benoit's knee. He takes him down and begins to work on the knee as "Now, WHOOOOOO, we go to school!". He uses all of his knee breaking tactics to great advantage, and finally slaps on the Figure Four Leglock. Benoit tries to fight out of it, but Flair scoots back into the middle of the ring. Finally, after almost being counted down several times, Benoit manages to reverse the Figure Four. Flair releases the hold, and Benoit struggles to his feet. The chopping contest resumes, with Flair this time getting the upper hand. He whips Benoit into the ropes, but ducks his head too soon, and gets caught with a DDT from Benoit. With Flair down, Benoit puts on the Crippler Crossface and cranks back on the hold, trying to make Flair submit. He is unsuccessful, as Flair manages to make the ropes. With both men hurting, the match continues at a slower pace, with the crowd getting more and more into it. Another series of counters ends up with Benoit giving Flair a chop that sends him into the ropes. When he comes off, Benoit takes him down again with the Crippler Crossface, this time dead in the center of the ring. Flair still does not give up, but despite his best efforts, cannot break the hold. The referee raises Flair's hand three times, and three times it drops, giving Chris Benoit the victory.

*After the match, the crowd cheers the effort of both men, as Benoit helps Flair to his feet. The two men hug, as the crowd cheers even more. The cheers soon turn to boo's however, as Bret Hart makes his way down the aisle. He has his belt in his hand, and proceeds to nail Benoit in the back of the head with it, before using it on Flair as well. He then slaps on the Sharpshooter on Flair as the crowd shows their disgust at his actions by booing and throwing garbage in the ring at Hart*

(72/77/86; **3/4; Ric Flair lost overness, Chris Benoit gained overness)

MT: What a dastardly attack by Bret Hart! Not only does he make on of Ric Flair's best friends wrestler him, but then he cheap shots him after a grueling match! Is there anything Bret Hart WON'T do?

DM: I don't know Tenay, but I do know that even though it's not for the title, Ric Flair will get his chance at revenge on Bret Hart at Superbrawl!

MT: You're right there Dave. And fans, I personally can't WAIT. Fans, don't forget to tune in to see Thunder on Thursday, and DON'T miss next weeks Nitro! Goodnight everybody!

Overall: 79

Notes: (Normally I don't do this, but I HAD to this time) Chris Daniels is now at 83 overness! Didn't see THAT happening.

[kliq]

I loved this diary back on EWBIII, I'm glad to see it back.

[Commander Sheepard]

Tuesday, February 16th:

*Love is NOT in the air, even this soon after Valentines Day. In fact, the only thing in the air, is my cold and flu germs. Apparently I caught something from one of my nieces this past weekend. Great. My cough has gotten bad enough, QUICK enough, that I told Sophie not to come into the room. Instead, we're communicating by telephone*

Sophie: (via phone) Are you SURE you're OK to do this?

Me: Yeah, yeah, I'll be alright. *COUGH HACK COUGH* Sorry.

Sophie: It's OK, just try not to hack up a lung, alright?

Me: I'll do my best. So what's the news for last night?

Sophie: Well, it's kind of mixed. Let's start with the TV ratings. It was down a little, to a 5.61.

Me: Man that sucks. I thought last nights show went really well.

Sophie: I did too. And hey, don't panic, the network is still OK with that rating, so we're safe, for now. And as far as like the show goes, how does a 69% approval rating sound?

Me: Sounds horrible.

Sophie: Good, because what we GOT was a 79%.

Me: That's so cruel to toy with me like that while I'm sick, Sophie.

Sophie: Sorry, just trying to lighten the mood.

Me: So what did the surveys indicate the favorite segment of the night was?

Sophie: Well, surprise surprise, Jericho's interview against Booker T. The fans really seem to be getting into Jericho's new "persona". Well, at least MOST of them.

Me: Good, because I really like it. I tell you what, Jericho is gonna be a huge star, and not too long from now. I thought that him and Daniel's tore the place DOWN last night.

Sophie: I agree. I thought ALL of the matches were solid last night.

Me: Me too. *cough cough* I'm glad that Bischoff practiced that interview a little. There was a lot of information he had to get over, and I think he did it well.

Sophie: I agree. When do you think you're going to be announcing the final card for the show?

Me: Should be done by next Monday. I only have two more matches to put together. One of them is a "quickie" angle that I've put together that will start on Thunder. The other is...

Sophie: Yes? You can tell me. I AM your assistant you know.

Me: It's not that, it's just that I'm trying not to...not to...

Sophie: Not to WHAT?

Me: *ACHOOOOOO!* That.

Sophie: Bless you.

Me: Thanks. Anyway, the other involves out mystery person. I've decided I'm going to debut him at the PPV.

Sophie: Hmm, I see. Could be risky though. If things don't go well...

Me: Oh, they'll go well. I mean, you know yourself the guy is a world-class athlete. It's just a matter of putting him in the right situation at the right time, and I think the PPV is the place to do it. *cough cough, hack, cough*

Sophie: Hmm, you don't sound very good. Listen, why don't I let you go so that you can go see a doctor? I'll check back with you later.

Me: OK Sophie, sounds good. I'll talk to you later.

Sophie: Bye.

*She hangs up, and so do I. I don't go get my jacket on and get ready to go to the doctor, however. I have too much to do to get ready for the next few weeks to worry about getting sick. Guess I'll just have to tough it out, with nothing but my will against the fever. Well, my will, AND some Nyquil. Better yet, a hot toddy. Yeah, a hot toddy. I think I WILL pause long enough to get one of those made up...*

Edited December 19, 2004 by bigsheep305

[JStarr]

AN-GLE!! AN-GLE!!

Um, if I'm spoiling anything, sheep, I apologize...I've never really read the first posting of this diary, so if the mystery debuting superstar is who I think it is, I'm really sorry...and also really excited. I've always wondered what...um...this guy...could have done if matched against real wrestlers from the get-go, rather than the sportz-entertainerz that ruled the WWF in '99.

Will you be continuing this effort from where you left off, or will we be left with the eternal mystery of whether Kris hooks up with Mindy?

Dammit, man, readers need to know...

Oh, and take care of that cold...

[Commander Sheepard]

Oh, I'll be continuing from where I left off, once I get everything reposted. And don't worry about spoiling anything. I should have the show where the mystery man is revealed up in a day or two. But me hooking up? I'm a married man I'll have you know! Ahem...

The funny thing is? I really DO have a cold right now.

[Commander Sheepard]

Thursday, February 18th:

Thunder!

*As the sounds of 6,536 people exploding fills the arena, the pyro explodes and the music blasts us into another edition of WCW Thunder! We go to ringside with our hosts Mike Tenay and "Goldust's Father if ya weeeeeeelllll" Dusty Rhodes. The briefly go over the card for the evening, before sending us to ringside for our first match.*

**Hardcore Hak vs. Bam Bam Bigelow**

The announcer’s talk about both men’s extreme backgrounds, and the match certainly lives up to this reputation, as it consists of some very intense brawling. After several minutes of back and forth action, Bigelow "accidentally" knocks out the referee, allowing him to grab a chair and nail Hak in the head. The ref wakes in time to count the 1-2-3.

*Hak quickly is back to his feet, and the pair brawl all around the ring again, before Hak grabs the chair and chases Bam Bam out. Hak asks for, and is given, a microphone*

(73/68/79; **3/4)

**Hak makes the hardcore challenge**

Hak: Bigelow, you think that one chairshot is enough to put me down? You ought to know better than that. I've been through more hell than you can even DREAM of. More hell than YOU could ever put me through. So I tell you what. I haven't been on PPV in a while now, and I'm itching to get that nice big paycheck, so why don't we make a deal, "Bam Bam"? How about, at Superbrawl, you and me, in a match. Not just any match though. A HARDCORE match. That way, I can show you how a REAL man uses a chair. What about it "Bam Bam"?

*The camera cuts to Bigelow, who is nodding and yelling at Hak as he slowly backs away*

(83%; Hardcore Hak gained overness)

Rhodes and Tenay talk about what an intense brutal match that will be, and add that they hope that Eric Bischoff will agree to sanction it. We are then taken to another video clip for the mysterious unknown wrestler that's been causing lots of talk around the water cooler lately...

**Who is it?**

A video clip similar to the ones we have previously seen is shown on the big screen. This time, the focus is on various athletes at the END of various athletic events, showing a runner breaking the tape, a swimmer finishing just ahead of an opponent, and relay team making a perfect handoff, a football team celebrating after a big win, and numerous other moments of victory. As the scenes flash by faster and faster, some words fill the screen: Glory. Coming soon to WCW.

(88%; gained overness)

After another discussion about who the mystery man could be, our announcers throw us back to the ring for our next match.

**Rey Mysterio, Jr. vs. Chavo Guerrero, Jr.**

Tenay and Rhodes fill us in our Rey's problems with The Triad the past few weeks and talk about Rey's big match against DDP at Superbrawl, with a shot at the Tag Team Titles on the line. This match is a back and forth, fast paced affair, filled with numerous highflying moves and some great reversals. In the end, Rey manages to get Chavo on the top rope, and deliver a Top Rope Hurricanrana to get the pinfall victory.

*As soon as the match is over, Diamond Dallas Page comes running down to ringside and tries to attack Rey. Rey dodges him however, and nails DDP with a dropkick that knocks Page down, giving Rey enough time to slide out of the ring. DDP seethes inside the ring as Rey walks down the aisle to the cheers of the fans*

(75/59/91; **3/4)

**Finally, Flair vs. Hart, one on one...**

We are then taken to a video presentation of the history between Bret Hart and Ric Flair, leading all the way back to when Bret Hart first came into WCW, then going forward to his actions against Ric Flair more recently. A clip is shown of Eric Bischoff announcing the match between the two for Superbrawl, as well as highlights of Chris Benoit against Flair from later in the evening. The last shot of the video is of Ric Flair locked in the Sharpshooter, screaming in agony as Bret refuses to let go.

(87%)

Tenay talks about the past two segments, and informing the audience that either Rey Mysterio, Jr. vs. DDP OR Bret Hart vs. Ric Flair have the potential to be showstoppers. We then go back to ringside for our next match.

**Kidman vs. Buff Bagwell**

The announcers discuss Kidman’s own problems with The Triad, but more especially his conflict with Eddie Guerrero. Both men say they are looking forward to the match between the two for the Cruiserweight Title at Superbrawl. This match is surprisingly dominated by Kidman, who looks more focused and determined than ever before. Bagwell manages only a brief flurry of offense before Kidman is able to knock him down and go up top for the Shooting Star Press. Eddie Guerrero sneaks down the aisle however, and pushes Kidman off the top, leaving him knocked out for the easy cover by Bagwell.

*Eddie immediately jumps in the ring and commences to beat Kidman down, using stomps and punches before picking him and hitting a brutal Brainbuster, leaving Kidman down and twitching in the ring.*

(77/69/85; ***)

After denouncing Eddie Guerrero for his cheap actions, Tenay again re-iterates how excited he is about the Cruiserweight Title match at Superbrawl. He then announces our last match of the evening, featuring the rising young star Chris Daniels against a man with a new attitude, Rick Steiner.

**Chris Daniels vs. Rick Steiner**

Tenay and Rhodes discuss both men, talking about Rick Steiner’s apparent new attitude towards the fans and his opponents, while putting over the impressive performances Daniels has been giving lately. The trend continue, as despite their difference in styles, Daniels and Steiner manage a nice back and forth match, ending with a DQ when Steiner gets frustrated with Daniels innovative moves and uses a low blow to gain the advantage, then won't break a choke hold.

*Steiner refuses to break the choke even after the bell has rung, and Daniels quickly is turning blue. Finally, Steiner breaks the hold and dares Daniels to come after him. Daniels attempts to, but is talked out of it by the referee, who convinces him to go to the back for medical treatment on his throat.*

(77/75/80; ***)

**Steiner sits-in, but not for long!**

*Steiner leaves the ring, only to grab a chair, re-enter, and sit down right in the center of the ring*

Rick Steiner: You know something? WCW is filled with punks. Young punks, like that kid there, and my punk ex tag team partner. They got no respect for the veterans. Well I'm gonna beat some respect into somebody tonight, and since that punk kid Daniels had to run home and cry to his mommy, I'm gonna sit out here until somebody makes me leave. Come on, anybody in the back, come get some.

*Steiner does not have long to wait, as some very familiar music fills the arena, and out steps...STING! Sting also has a mike, and speaks briefly*

Sting: You know something Rick? You're right. Somebody DOES need some respect beaten into them. And you know what else? I think that I'M just the guy to do it.

*With that, Sting throws down the mike and runs to the ring, sliding in as the fans go crazy. Sting and Rick Steiner start brawling in the ring as the fans eat it up, chanting Sting's name. The brawling continues back and forth as we go back to our announcers for closing thoughts on the show*

(74%; Sting lost overness)

*As the two men continue to brawl all around the ring, Mike Tenay and Dusty Rhodes remind us of Nitro on Monday, Thunder next week, and especially Superbrawl in just another week.*

Overall: 78