World Wrestling Federation: 1991

[Chrononaut]

Quite a few people hae asked me to repost my WWF 1991 diary, so I got all the files (except for one week) and I will post them here, starting with the first month. I'm not planning to continue the diary though, this is just for the people who wanted to see it again. However, I will still be doing /forum/index.php?showtopic=17507">my WWE 2004 diary (cheap plug), so if you like this diary, you might like the other one too. Anyway, thanks for reading and enjoy

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I'm not going to go through a complicated backstory of "how I got the job" as I personally find that they don't add much to diaries. The diary should be the main focus, not the writer, in my opinion. Just know that this is January 1991, a fresh start while also retaining some of the then-current storylines, and as always remembering history. I was 11, turning 12, during this era and was a huge WWF fan as were many of my classmates, so this should be fun. Even back then I was doing "fantasy booking", so I see this finally as a chance to put some of my ideas into action.

Yes I do use the Arsenic Editor. Deal with it. I don't go crazy with it though, I only make changes that I believe are realistic, i.e. I'm not going to give 100's to the Bushwhackers. I also use it when I really want to get rid of guys and they won't accept my release. I don't think it's a big deal, since to me EWR and diaries are about the action and storylines.

On my first day, I recommended that the WWF release the following talent, and they complied with my request. Here's the list:

General Adnan

Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake

Dino Bravo

Earthquake

Elizabeth

Haku

Hillbilly Jim

Sensational Sherri

Saba Simba

Sgt. Slaughter (due to mounting media pressure over the pro-Iraq angle)

Tugboat

Jack Tunney

We hired writers Eddie Chandler, Ed Ferrera, Todd Gordon, Vince Russo, and George Scott in order to script our television shows. They have shown some talent, so we'll see how they do in the "big show" now.

The WWF arranged a development deal with Calgary's Stampede Wrestling, which will be overseen by Pat Patterson.

WORLD WRESTLING FEDERATION BUSINESS

Owner: Linda McMahon

Money: $9,500,000

Size: Global

Public Image: 22%

Risk Level: 31%

Production Values: 100%

Merchandising: 100% / $2,000,000 per month

Advertising: 85% / $850,000 per month

Sponsors: Sports Illustrated (16 months), Nintendo (9 months), Coliseum Video (8 months), Sega (6 months)

MEETING: TUESDAY, JANUARY 1, 1991

Personal Assistant, Sophie:

The market is quite strong at the moment.

Looking at the stats, I'd say the industry is at 64% of its peak.

The signs are that the market is beginning to weaken.

We currently have 68 workers on the overall roster.

We are currently running two house shows per week.

Head Writer, Eddie Chandler:

Our top draw is Hulk Hogan, who is off making a movie.

#1 babyface: Hulk Hogan

#2 babyface: Ultimate Warrior

#3 babyface: ...

#4 babyface: Andre The Giant

#5 babyface: Roddy Piper

#1 heel: Randy Savage

#2 heel: ...

#3 heel: Mr. Perfect

#4 heel: Bobby Heenan

#5 heel: Ted DiBiase

Head Medic, Dr. Zahorian:

No injuries to report.

Development Booker, Pat Patterson:

There are currently eight workers in Stampede Wrestling.

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Here are my current titleholders.

WWF World Championship (Image: 95)

• Ultimate Warrior (April 1, 1990 - present)

WWF Intercontinental Championship (Image: 80)

• Mr. Perfect (November 19, 1990 - present)

WWF Tag Team Championship (Image: 72)

• Hart Foundation (August 27, 1990 - present)

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Well, here's my active roster. I have omitted some of my "surprise signings" for obvious reasons, but rest assured I will be keeping things pretty realistic. You won't see me bring in Steve Austin and shoot him straight to the top, I guarantee you.

MAIN EVENT

Hulk Hogan: Face, 37, Main Eventer, "Hero", 100 Over.

"Macho Man" Randy Savage: Heel, 38, Main Eventer, "Egomaniac", 92 Over.

Ultimate Warrior: Face, 34, Main Eventer, "Power and Paint", 95 Over. Current WWF World Champion.

UPPER MIDCARD

Mr. Perfect: Heel, 30, Upper Midcarder, "Cocky", 85 Over. Managed by Bobby Heenan, current WWF Intercontinental Champion.

MIDCARD

Animal: Face, 30, Midcarder, "Power and Paint", 75 Over. One-half of Legion Of Doom with Hawk.

Big Boss Man: Face, 28, Midcarder, "Law Enforcer", 78 Over.

Bret "Hit Man" Hart: Face, 33, Midcarder, "Old School Face", 77 Over. One-half of Hart Foundation with Jim Neidhart, current WWF Tag Team Champions.

Butch: Face, 46, Midcarder, "Fun Babyface", 75 Over. One-half of The Bushwhackers with Luke.

Crush: Heel, 26, Midcarder, "Power and Paint", 66 Over. One-half of Demolition with Smash.

"British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith: Face, 28, Midcarder, "Old School Face", 70 Over.

Hawk: Face, 33, Midcarder, "Power and Paint", 75 Over. One-half of Legion Of Doom with Animal.

Jake "The Snake" Roberts: Face, 35, Midcarder, "Mysterious", 81 Over.

"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan: Face, 37, Midcarder, "Pro USA", 80 Over.

Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart: Face, 34, Midcarder, "Old School Face", 74 Over. One-half of Hart Foundation with Bret Hart, current WWF Tag Team Champions.

Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka: Face, 45, Midcarder, "Savage", 78 Over.

"Texas Tornado" Kerry Von Erich: Face, 30, Midcarder, "Old School Face", 76 Over.

Luke: Face, 43, Midcarder, "Fun Babyface", 75 Over. One-half of The Bushwhackers with Butch.

Rick "The Model" Martel: Heel, 35, Midcarder, "Prima Donna", 74 Over.

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper: Face, 39, Midcarder, "Crazy", 83 Over.

Smash: Heel, 31, Midcarder, "Power and Paint", 66 Over. One-half of Demolition with Crush.

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase: Heel, 36, Midcarder, "Rich Snob", 77 Over. Managed by Virgil.

The Undertaker: Heel, 25, Midcarder, "Supernatural", 75 Over. Managed by Brother Love.

LOWER MIDCARD

Barbarian: Heel, 32, Lower Midcarder, "Savage", 62 Over. Managed by Bobby Heenan.

Brian Knobbs: Heel, 36, Lower Midcarder, "Slob", 64 Over. One-half of Nasty Boys with Jerry Saggs, managed by Jimmy Hart.

Dustin Rhodes: Face, 24, Lower Midcarder, "Old School Face", 67 Over. One-half of Rhodes Family with father Dusty Rhodes.

Dusty Rhodes: Face, 46, Lower Midcarder, "Old School Face", 75 Over. One-half of Rhodes Family with son Dustin Rhodes.

Greg "The Hammer" Valentine: Heel, 39, Lower Midcarder, "Grizzled Veteran", 62 Over. Managed by Jimmy Hart.

Hercules: Heel, 40, Lower Midcarder, "Old School Heel", 62 Over. One-half of Power & Glory with Paul Roma, managed by Slick.

Jerry Saggs: Heel, 29, Lower Midcarder, "Slob", 64 Over. One-half of Nasty Boys with Brian Knobbs, managed by Jimmy Hart.

Jim Powers: Face, 27, Lower Midcarder, 52 Over.

Kato: Heel, 29, Lower Midcarder, "Evil Foreigner", 56 Over. One-half of Orient Express with Tanaka, managed by Mr. Fuji.

Koko B. Ware: Face, 33, Lower Midcarder, "Fun Babyface", 54 Over.

Marty Jannetty: Face, 28, Lower Midcarder, "Teen Idol", 69 Over. One-half of The Rockers with Shawn Michaels.

Paul "Romeo" Roma: Heel, 30, Lower Midcarder, "Old School Heel", 62 Over. One-half of Power & Glory with Hercules, managed by Slick.

Shawn Michaels: Face, 25, Lower Midcarder, "Teen Idol", 69 Over. One-half of The Rockers with Marty Jannetty.

Tanaka: Heel, 29, Lower Midcarder, "Evil Foreigner", 56 Over. One-half of Orient Express with Kato, managed by Mr. Fuji.

The Mountie: Heel, 30, Lower Midcarder, "Corrupt Law Enforcer", 67 Over. Managed by Jimmy Hart.

Tito Santana: Face, 30, Lower Midcarder, "Old School Face", 60 Over.

Warlord: Heel, 30, Lower Midcarder, "Monster", 64 Over. Managed by Slick.

OPENERS

Brooklyn Brawler: Heel, 28, Opener, "Slob", 40 Over.

Iron Mike Sharpe: Heel, 35, Opener, "Old School Heel", 45 Over.

JOBBERS

Barry Hardy: Face, 29, Jobber, 20 Over.

Bob Bradley: Heel, 30, Jobber, 25 Over.

Butch Stanley: Heel, 34, Jobber, 10 Over.

Chris Walker: Face, 24, Jobber, 25 Over.

Duane Gill: Face, 30, Jobber, 25 Over.

Italian Stallion: Face, 33, Jobber, 15 Over.

Kevin Krueger: Heel, 22, Jobber, 10 Over.

Reno Riggins: Face, 28, Jobber, 15 Over.

NON-WRESTLERS

Andre The Giant: Face, 44, Non-Wrestler, "BFG", 85 Over.

MANAGERS

Bobby "The Brain" Heenan: Heel, 46, Manager, "The Brain", 84 Over. Clients include Mr. Perfect and Barbarian.

Brother Love: Heel, 31, Manager, "Obnoxious", 69 Over. Clients include The Undertaker.

Jimmy Hart: Heel, 38, Manager, "Obnoxious", 70 Over. Clients include Greg Valentine, The Mountie, Brian Knobbs, and Jerry Saggs.

Mr. Fuji: Heel, 45, Manager, "Evil Foreigner", 60 Over. Clients include Tanaka and Kato.

Slick: Heel, 33, Manager, "Evil Preacher", 66 Over. Clients include Hercules, Paul Roma, and Warlord.

Virgil: Heel, 28, Manager, "Servant", 70 Over. Clients include Ted DiBiase.

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My three weekly television shows are...

Monday: WWF Prime Time Wrestling (USA Network - Prime Time)

Saturday: WWF Wrestling Challenge (NBC - Early Evening...since Challenge used to be shown on my local NBC affiliate back in the day )

Sunday: WWF Wrestling Superstars (FOX - Early Evening)

This week I've auto-booked the weekend shows, but next time I'm booking and doing full recaps. Here's what went down on the weekend:

SATURDAY, JANUARY 5, 1991 -- WWF WRESTLING CHALLENGE

Booker: Vince McMahon (Announcer)

Quality: 62%

Rating: 5.06

Attendance: 5,002

Ticket Sales: $300,120

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 6, 1991 -- WWF WRESTLING SUPERSTARS

Booker: Shane McMahon (Referee)

Quality: 64%

Rating: 3.57

Attendance: 5,019

Ticket Sales: $301,140

[Chrononaut]

It was reported in the "dirt sheets" that Pat Tanaka of The Orient Express suffered a torn calf during a house show tag team match against The Rockers. He will most likely be on the shelf for up to nine months.

There was also a report on the new format for WWF Prime Time Wrestling. Apparently, Vince McMahon somehow convinced the higher-ups at USA Network to help finance a LIVE wrestling show, every Monday night, with the commentators sitting at ringside. Fans of the traditional PTW format need not worry, however, as the old studio set-up will still be used for in-depth interviews and promos sprinkled throughout the program. The hope is that this innovative approach will restore interest in the product, and it is rumored that the change came about via heavy lobbying from some of the new members of the booking team. Commercials running all weekend on USA have indeed hinted at a big change "for the 1990s and beyond". Time will tell if this plan will sink or swim.

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MONDAY, JANUARY 7, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Prime Time Wrestling opened with a new montage, followed by a shot of the inside of a small arena, packed to the rafters with screaming fans, as a graphic in the corner of the screen read "LIVE!". Ring announcer Howard Finkel stood in mid-ring and proclaimed: "Ladies and gentlemen, WELCOME to the NEW PRIME TIME WRESTLING! And now, please welcome BACK to the WORLD WRESTLING FEDERATION... JESSE "THE BODY" VENTURA!" The crowd popped big-time and chanted "JESSE, JESSE" as the colorful color commentator strutted out, stopping in the ring for a brief posedown before joining Vince McMahon at ringside, declaring that while it was great to be back in the WWF, "I was hoping I'd never have to sit next to you again, McMahon!" This was truly surprising, as most Observers presumed that after the bitter falling-out between "The Body" and the WWF last year, they would never work together again; in fact, it had been rumored that Ventura was "thisclose" to signing with WCW. Smart move by the WWF to swallow their pride and bring back "The Man Who Tells It Like It Is".

Back in the old (spruced-up) Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon sat alongside Bobby "The Brain" Heenan. After some of their trademark banter, Monsoon announced that due to health problems, Jack Tunney had stepped down as WWF President. He thanked Tunney for his years of service and wished him well, before introducing the new WWF President: Andre The Giant! The humongous Giant lumbered into the studio and shook hands with Gorilla, glaring menacingly at Heenan before sitting next to Gorilla at the desk. Andre said it was an honor to be named WWF President, discussing how much he loves the WWF and wants to give something back to the Federation, and vowed that he would do everything in his power to ensure the longevity of the WWF. Should be a good role for the declining Andre, and he will undoubtely connect with fans more than the stuffed-suit Tunney, based on his existing popularity. (91%)

Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal) vs. Brooklyn Brawler & Iron Mike Sharpe

Basically a squash, as the LOD steamrolled over the two WWF veterans, ending when Hawk covered the Brawler following the Doomsday Device. During the short match, McMahon and Ventura hyped tonight's main event between Randy Savage and Roddy Piper, as well as a big "Blindfold Match" between Jake Roberts and Rick Martel. LOD looked good out there. (67%)

A vignette aired, featuring clips of none other than Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat during his last run in the WWF. The pre-recorded voice-over of that guy who does a lot of voice-overs for movie trailers proclaimed Steamboat as "arguably the greatest Intercontinental Champion in the history of the WWF" and finished by announcing that he would soon be returning to the WWF, closing with the tagline "The Fire Still Burns Within The Dragon". Looks interesting, as Steamboat will be a welcome addition to the roster. (68%)

Back in the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan were joined by the reigning WWF Intercontinental Champion, Mr. Perfect. Perfect and Heenan shared a laughing embrace, but Perfect short-armed Gorilla on a handshake, pulling his hand away. They officially mentioned that Perfect would be mostly on his own from now on, but that Heenan would still be advising him. Perfect then brought up the Ricky Steamboat video that had just played, wondering how ANYBODY could argue over who the greatest Intercontinental Champion of all time was. "After all, there's only been ONE... PERFECT... Intercontinental Champion... hasn't there, Bobby?" Heenan of course agreed, but Monsoon challenged Perfect to put his title on the line against "The Dragon" upon his return to back up his claim. Perfect appeared nervous momentarily before informing Gorilla that it's been three long years since Steamboat was in the WWF, and he'd have to work his way back up to EARN a title shot. Heenan agreed profusely, before Perfect did his patented "gum spit" and walked off as the show went to commercial. (92%)

Crush vs. "British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith

Crush of Demolition flew solo tonight, assaulting the Bulldog as soon as the corn-rowed Englishman stepped foot in the ring. A surprisingly good power struggle match-up, with the rookie Crush showing signs of future superstardom. In the end, Davey Boy scooped Crush up for the Running Powerslam, but Smash appeared and pulled his "brother in paint" off the Bulldog's shoulder. While Smith turned his attention to Smash, Crush was able to score with a brutal savate kick to the head and pick up the three-count. Afterwards, both members of Demolition double-teamed the Bulldog and left him laying. (75%)

In the studio, Monsoon and Heenan brought in current WWF Tag Team Champions The Hart Foundation. As Bret Hart & Jim Neidhart entered the studio, suddenly out of nowhere Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs of The Nasty Boys blindsided them. While manager Jimmy Hart barked orders through his megaphone, the Nasties stomped and kicked the Anvil & Hit Man, battering them around the studio. Gorilla expressed outrage at this despicable sneak attack as the Nasties and the Mouth Of The South exited triumphantly after wiping their armpits with the Tag Team Title belts. (75%)

Back at the arena in the locker room, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed "The Doctor Of Style" Slick and his Power & Glory tag team of Hercules & Paul Roma. Slick put them over as a "team of the '90s", combining brawn, brains, and beauty into one world-class unit. Good promo. (77%)

Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma) vs. Koko B. Ware & Jim Powers

The suave Slick escorted Herc & Romeo for this glorified squash, which saw the Birdman & Powers get in some offense. After the upset was teased a couple of times, Power & Glory regained control and put Koko away with the impressive Powerplex (Hercules superplex followed by Roma swandive splash off the top). Afterwards, Hercules & Roma continued the punishment, beating down Powers as well until Dusty & Dustin Rhodes raced out to a great pop and chased off the heels, who vowed revenge as they retreated. (67%)

Blindfold Match: "The Model" Rick Martel vs. Jake "The Snake" Roberts

This was the big blow-off (originally scheduled for WrestleMania VII) for the angle that saw Martel temporarily blind Roberts with his "Arrogance" cologne spray, thus leading to this Blindfold Match so that Martel would have some idea of what Roberts went through for several months. A slow start as the competitors felt around looking for each other, which led to Martel mistaking the referee for Jake and dropping him with a backbreaker across the knee. The official called for a disqualification, at which point both men pulled up their hoods and Roberts refused the DQ victory, requesting the match be restarted, which it was. Martel pounced on "The Snake" immediately before pulling the hoods back down, taking advantage of the opportunity. After some back-and-forth action, Jake got his hands on "The Model" and snapped on the DDT for the definitive 1-2-3. Afterwards, Jake unleashed his pet python Damian on Martel until he awoke and ran off through the crowd. (75%)

Backstage, Mean Gene caught up with Jake Roberts and asked him how his vision was now. Roberts said that his eye was "almost 100%" and would be back to normal within the next few weeks, especially now that he had disposed of Rick Martel. Suddenly, Jake jumped and looked around him, claiming to have seen something in the shadows. Okerlund attributed it to Jake's vision problems before going to the final commercial break. (77%)

"Macho Man" Randy Savage vs. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper

A very heated brawl between two of the WWF's wildest, craziest veterans. Both men got in their trademark spots, Piper with the double-poke to the eyes and an attempted sleeperhold, and Savage nailing his flying axhandle from the top turnbuckle down to the floor. During the skirmish on the floor, Hot Rod took the advantage, tossing the Macho Man into the ringpost before rolling him back into the ring. While the referee checked on Savage, Ted DiBiase ran down the aisle and waylayed Piper, whacking him in the back of the head with his "Million Dollar Belt". DiBiase then rolled the slumping Scotsman under the bottom rope and walked off laughing as a groggy Macho Man dove from the top turnbuckle with the patented Flying Elbowdrop, covering Piper for the big win. Afterwards, Savage motioned to his waist, yelling about taking the Ultimate Warrior's WWF Championship, as Prime Time faded out. (83%)

Overall: 77%

Rating: 5.62

Attendance: 5,038

Ticket Sales: $302,280

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While driving to the Challenge/Superstars television tapings on Tuesday night, Virgil damaged his right hand in a minor car accident. It wasn't serious though, and he should be back on the road next month.

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 12, 1991 -- WWF WRESTLING CHALLENGE

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan opened the program from the usual broadcast stage at the back of the crowd area, running down the lineup of The Rockers, The Nasty Boys, and The Undertaker all in action, plus the "double main events" of Hacksaw Duggan taking on Kato, and the Rhodes Family battling Greg Valentine & The Mountie.

The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs) vs. Barry Hardy & Duane Gill

Jimmy Hart accompanied Saggs & Knobbs and was his usual obnoxious self, shouting through his megaphone as the Nasties had a fairly easy time with Gill & Hardy, who did manage to fight back when the Boys' arrogance got the better of them. Finally, Saggs rubbed Gill's face in Knobbs' armpit (the "Pit Stop") before powerslamming him to the canvas, followed by the flying elbowdrop from Knobbs for the finish. Afterwards, the Nasties tossed their opponents around and claimed they would do the same to The Hart Foundation. (55%)

Another vignette aired for Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, showing his intense workout routine as he prepares for his return to the WWF. The video put him over as a great legitimate athlete, and he looks like he may be in the best shape of his career. It closed with the "Fire Still Burns" tagline. (72%)

The Rockers (Marty Jannetty & Shawn Michaels) vs. Brooklyn Brawler & Iron Mike Sharpe

Gorilla Monsoon talked up The Rockers, calling them possibly the best young tag team "to come down the pike" in quite some time, while Heenan made fun of their hair. The veteran Sharpe/Brawler tandem actually controlled the bout after a brief opening flurry from Jannetty, but eventually the "Masters Of Motion" made the comeback and put away Iron Mike with the trademark Flying Double Fistdrop from opposing corners. (67%)

The Undertaker vs. Reno Riggins

Brother Love led his undead charge out, as the fans stood silent in awe. Heenan pointed out that he wouldn't want to be Reno's drycleaner, as Reno looked scared shitless. Undertaker made short work of Riggins, planting him with the Tombstone after getting in his now-patented spots. Afterwards, the Pale Destroyer zipped Riggins up in a bodybag and carried him away as Love looked very pleased with his disciple. (54%)

A video package aired showing "behind the scenes" footage of Hulk Hogan on the set of his new movie, Suburban Commando. Of course, the movie looks like it will totally suck, but I'm sure the little Hulkamaniacs will love it. Good promo though, getting fans interested in seeing the Hulkster return to the ring in a month or so. (99%)

Kato vs. "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan

Mr. Fuji accompanied the masked Kato, as the commentators (as usual) made no mention of his injured tag team partner Tanaka. The usual "America vs. Foreign Guy" contest, with the fans chanting "U-S-A", inspiring Duggan to break out of Kato's nerve pinch and eventually cut him down with the Three Point Stance for the three-count. Afterwards, Duggan went after Fuji, giving Kato time to recover and attack from behind. Hacksaw brawled with Kato up the aisle until they disappeared through the curtains. (68%)

In front of the good ol' "green screen", Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Jimmy Hart along with The Mountie & Greg Valentine. They talked about what they were going to do to the Rhodes Family, with "The Hammer" finishing up by saying that he was finally going to put the American Dream out of his misery once and for all. (73%)

The Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes) vs. Greg "The Hammer" Valentine & The Mountie

A true old-school tag team match-up, with the heels dominating the young Dustin after Jimmy Hart got involved, then using quick tags to control the pace. Finally, Dustin escaped and made the hot tag to dad Dusty, who cleaned house on Mountie & Hammer. Dustin was tagged back in and along with Dusty, drilled Valentine with a big-time Double Bionic Elbow before pinning the former Intercontinental Champion. The Rhodes Family celebrated while Monsoon and Heenan signed off. (71%)

Overall: 70%

Rating: 5.00

Attendance: 5,043

Ticket Sales: $302,580

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 13, 1991 -- WWF WRESTLING SUPERSTARS

Mean Gene Okerlund and Lord Alfred Hayes introduced this week's program, highlighting the main event featuring Rick Martel taking on Big Boss Man, as well as a special interview with the Ultimate Warrior, plus Texas Tornado, Tito Santana, and The Bushwhackers all in action.

The Bushwhackers (Luke & Butch) vs. Bob Bradley & Kevin Krueger

Lord Alfred expressed disgust at the behavior of The Bushwhackers as they shared sardines and licked each other's heads. This was a quick, fan-pleasing squash ending when Luke covered Bradley after the double-team Battering Ram. Bad bad match, but the crowd loves these idiots. (52%)

In the locker room, Sean Mooney interviewed Mr. Fuji and Kato. Fuji talked about what happened with Jim Duggan on Wrestling Challenge and threw out a challenge for Hacksaw to face Kato again next week on Superstars. The rematch the world was waiting to see, I'm sure. (76%)

A promo aired announcing the return of Piper's Pit next week on Superstars, when his guest will be none other than Ted DiBiase. Could be trouble, since the Million Dollar Man cost Hot Rod the match on Prime Time Wrestling. Nonetheless, Piper's Pit is almost always pure gold. (90%)

Tito Santana vs. Iron Mike Sharpe

Slow, plodding match with Santana hooking an armbar numerous times. The commentators discussed the Ultimate Warrior's upcoming interview, wondering if it had anything to do with Randy Savage's body language on Prime Time. They also talked about other things, until finally Tito nailed Sharpe with the Flying Forearm for the pinfall. (60%)

Something we've not really seen too much before: a camera backstage caught the Texas Tornado tying up his robe and walking out of the room, ready for his match. (70%)

"Texas Tornado" Kerry Von Erich vs. Butch Stanley

Interesting that they've put the "Kerry Von Erich" back into his name. I wonder why. Even with his full name, Von Erich did not look good, but neither did Stanley. The match mercifully ended when Von Erich clobbered Stanley with the Tornado Punch for the 1-2-3. Even the commentators barely paid attention. (48%)

Sean Mooney was standing on the old interview platform, where he introduced WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior, who rushed out looking pumped up. After some long-winded rant on his Gods of War and other deities, Mooney asked Warrior about Randy Savage motioning around his waist on Prime Time Wrestling and saying that he'd take Warrior's title. The Warrior nodded and went off on a tangent about people who demand accolades instead of earning them, and said that he takes on all comers, because he truly is "The Ultimate... WARRRRRRRRRRRRIORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!" (100%)

"The Model" Rick Martel vs. Big Boss Man

A typical power vs. finesse/cheating match-up, with Boss Man overwhelming Martel with his size, and Martel using his superior experience and chicanery to turn the tide. Boss Man was able to kick Martel back when he attempted to apply the Boston Crab, tossing him into a corner. Boss Man then charged in for an avalanche, but "The Model" sidestepped the 340-pounder and rolled him up with his feet on the ropes to grab the victory. Martel quickly took off afterwards, leaving Boss Man to look very pissed off while Okerlund and Hayes closed the show. (74%)

Overall: 71%

Rating: 3.64

Attendance: 5,005

Ticket Sales: $300,300

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura opened this week's LIVE Prime Time, listing off The Hart Foundation and Big Boss Man in action, plus Power & Glory facing the Legion Of Doom, the British Bulldog against Demolition's Smash, and the main event Intercontinental Title match featuring Jake Roberts challenging Mr. Perfect, as well as a special studio interview with Randy Savage.

Big Boss Man vs. Bob Bradley

A basic squash, although Bradley snuck in some brief offense after a thumb to the eye. During the match, McMahon and Ventura mentioned that the big Georgian would have a much tougher challenge this weekend on Superstars against The Mountie, hyping that bout. The former corrections officer finished Bradley off with the Boss Man Slam. (55%)

Back in the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan discussed this weekend's Boss Man/Mountie match-up before introducing Jimmy Hart and his group of The Mountie, The Nasty Boys, & Greg "The Hammer" Valentine. The Mouth Of The South said that his boys were as "serious as a Hart Attack, baby!" and that the Big Boss Man would find that out the hard way on Superstars. Heenan congratulated Jimmy and the Nasties on their sneak attack on The Hart Foundation last week; the Mouth then thanked Bobby for allowing them access to the studio, which set Gorilla off, scolding the Brain for his previously-unknown involvement. Monsoon asked Knobbs & Saggs why they assaulted the Hit Man & Anvil, to which the Nasties responded that it was all about the gold and causing mayhem, the two reasons Jimmy brought them to the WWF. Jimmy said that he'll never forgive the Foundation for leaving him high and dry, and the Nasties would be the team to finally put the Harts out of commission for good, taking the WWF Tag Team Championship in the process. When asked about Valentine's role in the gang, Jimmy called him his "all-purpose enforcer" and said that when he gives the word, Greg drops "The Hammer". The quintet then shook hands with Heenan before exiting the studio, at which point Gorilla reminded Bobby that new WWF President Andre The Giant was "waiting in the wings" and would be joining them later on. Heenan nervously asked if Monsoon thought Andre had been watching when he was implicated in last week's attack, before holding his head in his hands and sobbing. (71%)

A promo ran, similar to the one on Wrestling Challenge, hyping the return of Piper's Pit this weekend on Superstars where Rowdy Roddy's guest will be "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. It showed some quick clips of classic Piper's Pits and closed with a split-screen of Piper and DiBiase. (82%)

Smash vs. "British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith

Prior to the match, footage was shown from last week's Prime Time when Smash helped Crush defeat the Bulldog, followed by the post-match beatdown. The Bulldog came in fired up, opening up on Smash with lefts and rights right off the bat. Another good power contest following the same basic formula as last week's Crush/Bulldog match, with Smith displaying his impressive strength, press-slamming the 270-pound Smash, and later holding him up in the delayed vertical suplex before dropping him to the canvas. Smash used his typical power-heel tactics such as face rakes, chokeholds, clotheslines, stomps, and double-axhandles, but Smith mounted a comeback and eventually planted the former Tag Team Champion with the Running Powerslam. Before referee Shane McMahon could register the three-count, Crush appeared and got up on the apron, attracting the Bulldog's attention. Smith ducked a swing from Crush and clotheslined him off the apron, then turned around into a surprise hotshot from Smash, who quickly hooked the Bulldog's legs for the 1-2-3. Afterwards, the Bulldog began hammering on Smash until Crush entered the ring. The Bulldog exchanged fists with the 310-pounder momentarily before the numbers game overwhelmed him and Smash & Crush double-teamed him. Smash draped Smith across his knee as Crush went to the very top turnbuckle and dove off with the new-and-improved Decapitation Elbow, leaving the Bulldog down and hurting while they left to a chorus of boos. (76%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon lamented the once-popular Demolition's pronounced vicious streak and hoped that the British Bulldog would get his revenge; Bobby Heenan applauded their attitude and claimed that "the mutt" deserved the beating. Monsoon just shook his head before bringing in their next guests, Dusty & Dustin Rhodes. Dusty talked about his legacy as the "American Dream", and how proud he was of his son Dustin "followin' his daddy's footsteps, eeeeeeif yew weeeeeeill", saying that he knew Dustin would be able to handle himself whenever it was time for Dusty to hang up the ol' boots. Dustin talked about what an honor it was to be tagging with his legendary father and said it was an opportunity not many children have. He added that since he could remember, his dad was his biggest role model, always standing up for the common man, and that's why they couldn't take it anymore last week when Power & Glory kept working over Jim Powers & Koko B. Ware. Dusty said that they don't tolerate bullies, and that if Hercules & Paul Roma want a fight, they'd get one courtesy of the Rhodes Family. Dustin issued a challenge to Power & Glory, revealing that Jim Powers had been injured in that post-match attack, and said that if they wanted to prove they were real men, they'd accept and get their "butts whooped" at the Royal Rumble. Dusty told his son to watch his language, but agreed that they would send Herc & Romeo home "with they tails between they legs, eeeeif yew weeeill!" Gorilla thanked the Rhodes Family for joining them, while Heenan remained silent until they left, at which point he mercilessly insulted them, calling them rednecks and wondering if the movie "Deliverance" meant anything to them. (71%)

Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma) vs. Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal)

On their way down the aisle, Roma & Hercules stopped at the camera and posed while Slick yammered on and on, finally accepting the Rhodes Family's challenge and high-fiving his men before they all continued to the ring. McMahon called this the biggest challenge in Power & Glory's young tag team career, which Ventura agreed with but said that Herc & Romeo would be able to wipe the mat with the "mascara-wearing" Legion Of Doom. This turned out to be a well-worked tag match, back-and-forth action featuring a lot of power moves and quick tags on both sides. Power & Glory took control on Hawk, using some nice double-teams but were unable to finish him off, Hercules trapping him in a reverse chinlock as the show went to a commercial break. When they came back, Hawk broke out and finally made the hot tag to Animal, who cleaned house with a series of clotheslines on both opponents. Eventually, they disposed of Hercules, and Animal lifted Roma up on his shoulders while Hawk went to the top turnbuckle. However, before they could trigger the Doomsday Device, a balding man in a pinstriped suit and tie, wearing mirrored sunglasses, appeared in the aisleway, carrying a rolled-up newspaper. Both Hawk & Animal looked shocked at the sight of him, dropping Roma as McMahon loudly inquired as to the identity of the man. Ventura also seemed surprised that the man was there, exclaiming, "My God, McMahon, that's... that's Paul Ellering!" The Body quickly explained that Ellering was the LOD's original business manager and that he hadn't been heard from "in years". Suddenly, Hercules blindsided Animal, knocking him out of the ring, while Roma rolled up Hawk with a handful of tights for the upset victory. Ellering shook his head in disappointment and turned on a dime, marching back up and through the curtains. Power & Glory retreated with Slick, all three looking surprised at Ellering's appearance, as Hawk & Animal looked at each other, speechless. (81%)

Another vignette for the impending return of Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat was shown, this one showing the former Intercontinental Champion, eyes closed, meditating in a darkened room lit only by candles, while the voiceover guy ran down his accomplishments during his previous WWF tenure. The voiceover said that Steamboat "has something left to prove", when the Dragon's eyes opened suddenly and stared into the camera as flames erupted around him. The scene faded out and ended with the "Fire Still Burns" tagline. (76%)

After a commercial break, we returned to the Prime Time studio where Gorilla Monsoon appeared to be alone. He welcomed viewers back to the show before looking under the desk and telling Bobby Heenan to get back up in his chair, which he finally did after some more coaxing, begging Gorilla, "don't let him hurt me!" Gorilla chuckled before introducing WWF President Andre The Giant, who entered the studio. Heenan immediately went into full kiss-ass mode, telling Andre what an honor it was to have him join them again this week, and how much of a privilege it was for the Brain to have managed him. Andre grinned broadly and offered a handshake, which Bobby cautiously accepted but soon regretted, as the Giant squeezed his hand while waving his big finger as if to scold him. Andre said that if Heenan ever used his position as a "broadcast journalist" inappropriately again, he would be kicked off the show, before releasing his grip. Heenan collapsed into his chair as Andre sat on the other side of Monsoon, who properly welcomed the President and asked what brought him on Prime Time again. Andre said that the 1991 Royal Rumble would be taking place on January 27, and that athletes from all around the country were vying for a spot in the 30-man Rumble, the winner of which would receive a shot at the WWF Championship at WrestleMania VII. He announced the lineup thus far as: Animal, Barbarian, Big Boss Man, Butch, Ted DiBiase, Jim Duggan, Hawk, Marty Jannetty, Kato, Luke, Rick Martel, Shawn Michaels, The Mountie, Mr. Perfect, Roddy Piper, Dustin Rhodes, Dusty Rhodes, Jake Roberts, Tito Santana, Jimmy Snuka, Ricky Steamboat, The Undertaker, Greg Valentine, Kerry Von Erich, Koko B. Ware, and Warlord. After the list was read, "Macho Man" Randy Savage charged into the studio, yelling and pointing at Andre as several stagehands tried (unsuccessfully) to hold him back. Savage said that the new President was biased against him, and that he was protecting the Ultimate Warrior by not putting the Macho Man in the Royal Rumble. Andre stood up, towering over Savage, and said that after this outburst, if he wanted a spot in the Rumble, he would have to earn it next week on Prime Time. While the Macho Man foamed at the mouth, the Giant announced his opponent, who would be available next week only... none other than "The Immortal" Hulk Hogan! Savage fell silent and stopped struggling with the stagehands as his eyes bulged from their sockets. He quickly turned and walked off as Andre smiled and rubbed his hands together, while Gorilla shouted again the announcement that Hulk Hogan would return for one week only to take on Randy Savage next week on Prime Time Wrestling. (91%)

Non-Title Match: The Hart Foundation (Bret "Hit Man" Hart & Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart) vs. Barry Orton & The Black Phantom

The masked Phantom is apparently indy wrestler David "The Vampire" Heath, and he looked solid against the WWF Tag Team Champions even though this was basically a glorified squash. McMahon spent most of the match hyping next week's huge Hogan/Savage match, while Ventura expressed his outrage at the discrimination against the Macho Man. They also discussed The Nasty Boys and their pursuit of the Harts' belts. This contest ended when the Hit Man covered Orton after the Hart Attack. (67%)

Prior to the commercial break, a camera in the shadowy locker room caught Jake Roberts sliding Damian in his bag and tying it up in preparation for the upcoming match. Jake slung the sack over his shoulder and was about to leave the room when he stopped and looked around as if he had heard or seen something. After shaking his head, he went out into the hallway. Just before cutting to commercial, it looked like something (or somebody) moved in the shadows. (86%)

WWF Intercontinental Title Match: Mr. Perfect [champion] vs. Jake "The Snake" Roberts

McMahon wondered aloud if he had seen someone or something move in the shadows of the Snake's locker room, but Ventura said that both Vince and Jake were hallucinating, adding that Jake must be hallucinating if he thinks he can beat Mr. Perfect. This was a good back-and-forth contest, with Roberts scoring several near-falls, showing his mastery of psychology while Perfect displayed his tremendous athletic skills. Roberts floored Perfect with the short-arm clothesline, the set-up for the DDT, which the fans began chanting. He bent over to pick up the Intercontinental Champion, but suddenly something caught his eye up the aisle. The cameras quickly showed a shot of the entrance curtain, which were moving as if someone had stuck their head out and then quickly left. Jake shook his head and rubbed his eyes before turning around into a kick to the midsection from the Flawless One, who then hooked him up and snared him in the Perfectplex to score the pinfall. Afterwards, while Perfect celebrated with his belt, the Snake grabbed Damian and dumped him out of the bag, sending Perfect running for the hills. (83%)

Vince McMahon and Jesse Ventura closed out the show hyping Hulk Hogan vs. Randy Savage for next week.

Overall: 76%

Rating: 5.64

Attendance: 5,034

Ticket Sales: $302,040

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A report in the Observer confirmed that Jim Powers indeed suffered a fractured bone in his leg and could be out for upwards of six months. However, the injury occured during a dark match against Shane Douglas before Prime Time, but in the storyline was attributed to Power & Glory as part of their ongoing push. We wish him a speedy recovery.

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 1991 -- WWF WRESTLING CHALLENGE

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan kicked off Wrestling Challenge with their usual hilarious exchanges before hyping this week's show, featuring the Legion Of Doom and Demolition in action, Koko B. Ware taking on Greg Valentine, "The Brother Love Show" with special guest Jimmy Snuka, and in the main event, Ted DiBiase squaring off against Kerry Von Erich.

Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. Scott Taylor & Rob Zakowski

Pretty much a squash for the big face-painted warriors, although Zakowski & Taylor showed some flashes of brilliance; Zakowski in particular bears a striking resemblance to Jean-Claude Van Damme, from that movie "Bloodsport". During the match, Monsoon mentioned that the British Bulldog would be in action this week on Superstars and apparently has a message for Demolition. This one ended when Crush pinned Taylor following the Decapitation Elbow. (66%)

A vignette aired, showing the outside of a large Graceland-style mansion in the South. Once inside, we see that the interior is just as spacious as the exterior, with servants and maids keeping themselves busy. After the camera has panned back and forth, allowing us to see the splendor of this magnificent home, it stops at the foot of the long, winding staircase as a pair of feet are making their way down. The camera pulls back as the apparent owner of this house finally gets to the bottom of the stairs. The man is wearing a long, flowing, purple robe, carrying a regal crown under his arm, and seems to have an air of royalty about him. The more educated wrestling fans immediately recognize him, as the man introduces himself as "The King" Jerry Lawler, "the one and only TRUE King of Professional Wrestling". He said that as a true King does, he has traveled the world conquering territory after territory, country after country, continent after continent, amassing the kind of fame and wealth most can only dream of. However, there is only one place his dominion hasn't stretched to yet, and that is the World Wrestling Federation. He announced that he has entered himself in the 30-man Royal Rumble, befitting of a King, and claimed that when he arrives, all of the WWF peons and commoners will bow before him and kiss his royal feet. The scene faded out, with "The King, Jerry Lawler" written across the screen in gold cursive writing. (82%)

Greg "The Hammer" Valentine vs. Koko B. Ware

Jimmy Hart annoyed everyone with his constant jabbering through the megaphone, while Heenan gushed over the arrival of Jerry Lawler to the WWF, telling Monsoon that he'd better show "The King" the proper respect he deserves. Gorilla scoffed and said Lawler would have to earn respect just like everybody else, since the WWF is the only place that matters. They also found time to hype the Hulk Hogan/Randy Savage match on this Monday's Prime Time, while the Hammer and the Birdman engaged in a solid match-up, although the commentators ignoring the bout really didn't help. In the end, Koko crash-landed on his knee after Valentine avoided the flying cross-body, but when the Hammer went to apply the newly-named "Hartbreaker" (figure-four leglock) Koko was able to wrap him up in a small package for the upset. Valentine couldn't believe it, and when Koko got up to celebrate, Greg dropped him with a harsh elbowsmash to the back of the head before locking him in the Hartbreaker. Valentine used the ropes for added pressure, while the Mouth Of The South got in some cheap stomps on the Birdman. Finally, Valentine released him and left to a smattering of catcalls as Monsoon bemoaned his actions. (65%)

Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal) vs. Bob Bradley & Kevin Krueger

A very quick squash, as the LOD went on the offensive as soon as they hit the ring, knocking Bradley out to the floor and hammering on Krueger. Monsoon wondered if the business-like attitude had something to do with Paul Ellering's appearance on Prime Time and the subsequent upset loss to Power & Glory, but before Heenan could answer, Hawk was already covering Krueger after the Doomsday Device. (58%)

Sean Mooney rushed out with a microphone to interview the Legion Of Doom, asking Hawk & Animal if they had any idea why Paul Ellering showed up on Prime Time Wrestling. Animal said that they hadn't seen or heard from Paul "in a long, long time" and that when they saw him, their first thought was that they were glad he was okay. Hawk claimed that Ellering was their original business manager and he was the one who introduced Hawk & Animal to each other and broke them into professional wrestling. That said, they seemed unsure of why he appeared, but said that they hoped he would show up on Prime Time again this Monday so that they could ask him some questions. Hawk finished by growling, "If Precious Paul wants back with the LOD... OHHHHH, WWWWHAT A RRRRRRUUUUUUUSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHH!!" (84%)

After a commercial break, the familiar music of "The Brother Love Show" echoed throughout the arena as red light bathed Brother Love, standing on his usual set, holding a microphone and grinning. "AHHHHHHHHHHHH LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE YEWWWWWWWWWWWW!", he exclaimed, before explaining that his guest today was "a man who knows no LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE", and in fact wasn't a man at all, but rather a "wild animal trying to live as a man" from a "savage, primitive, LOOOOOVEless land". He introduced "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka, who walked out looking very insulted, staring down Love with bulging eyes. Calling him "Brother Fly", Love asked Snuka what it was like to grow up in a place where people eat each other and "have no LOOOOOVE" for their fellow man. Snuka began to explain that Fijians are very loving, but Love yanked the microphone away and continued to insult the Superfly, correcting his "fellow man" comment and suggesting that Snuka and his people were "almost like a whole different species", at which point Snuka grabbed Love by the lapels and got right in his face. The red-faced preacher said that "Brother Fly" needed a "lesson in LOOOOVE", when suddenly from behind Snuka was struck by a big double-axhandle from The Undertaker, who then gripped the Superfly by the throat, lifted him in the air, and chokeslammed him down to the concrete floor beside the stage. Brother Love adjusted his tie, yelling at the downed Snuka before leaving with his Dead Man. (75%)

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase vs. "Texas Tornado" Kerry Von Erich

Take away the nicknames and gimmicks and you'd have a damn good athletic contest, which is what this turned out to be, hopefully proving that whatever caused Von Erich's dismal performance on last week's Superstars is behind him now. The two athletes traded the advantage, even going through some impressive chain-wrestling, while Monsoon and Heenan chatted about the upcoming Hogan/Savage match before discussing the Million Dollar Man being the guest on Piper's Pit on Superstars. As for the match, the Tornado freed himself from DiBiase's grueling front-facelock, mounting a comeback that eventually saw him go for the twisting Tornado Punch, which DiBiase ducked and cinched in the Million Dollar Dream. Von Erich struggled to escape but eventually succumbed to the lethal hold, as referee Joey Marella dropped the arm three times, awarding the hard-fought victory to the Million Dollar Man. (80%)

After tossing the barely-conscious Texas Tornado over the top rope to the floor, Ted DiBiase took the microphone and ranted about "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, warning the Scotsman not to try anything funny on him when he visits the Piper's Pit. He claimed that Virgil was currently away on a special business trip, securing yet another home for him in Italy, but that Hot Rod had still better watch himself around the Million Dollar Man, because "everybody's got a price, and everybody pays, even the Piper!" (83%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan closed the show with more bickering over the Hogan/Savage match on Prime Time.

Overall: 75%

Rating: 5.50

Attendance: 5,049

Ticket Sales: $302,940

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 20, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING

Mean Gene Okerlund and Lord Alfred Hayes began the program talking about (what else) the upcoming Prime Time Wrestling match between Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan, before going through the lineup for today's show: the main event of The Mountie facing Big Boss Man, the rematch between Kato and Jim Duggan, plus British Bulldog and Power & Glory in action, and of course, Ted DiBiase as the guest on Piper's Pit.

Backstage, Sean Mooney interviewed Jimmy Hart and The Mountie, who said that the Big Boss Man would finally have to answer for all of his crimes. Jimmy said that Boss Man was a complete fake and the Mountie was "the real law" in the WWF. The Mountie finished with his catchphrase, "I'm da Mountie, and I ALWAYS get my man!" (76%)

"British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith vs. Barry Orton

A squash for the Bulldog, who took the opportunity to show off his various power moves, while Okerlund and Hayes discussed how Davey Boy must still feel banged-up after the double-team assault from Demolition on Prime Time. Smith finished off Orton easily with the Running Powerslam. (66%)

Afterwards, the British Bulldog was interviewed in the aisle by Sean Mooney. Davey Boy said that he was sick of getting outnumbered, and that if Demolition would accept his challenge, he would find a partner and face them, two-on-two, at the Royal Rumble. He seemed very fired up and almost cut a coherent promo. (71%)

Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma) vs. Al Perez & Chris Walker

Slick and his boys seemed extra cocky, which Okerlund attributed to their victory over the Legion Of Doom on Prime Time, which Lord Alfred agreed was "indeed a very sizeable feather in their collective cap". Just another float in the squash parade, as the commentators talked about Power & Glory's match against the Rhodes Family coming up at the Royal Rumble. Perez has "the look" but doesn't seem to have "the talent", as Roma covered Walker following the Powerplex. (63%)

A pre-recorded (duh) segment featuring WWF President Andre The Giant aired next. He of course hyped the Hogan/Savage match, reiterating that if the Macho Man can pin the Hulkster on Prime Time, he will earn entry into the 30-man Royal Rumble. Andre then announced another match for the Rumble card, pitting The Undertaker against Jimmy Snuka, due to what took place on "The Brother Love Show". In addition, he had signed a non-title bout between The Hart Foundation and The Nasty Boys, mentioning that Hit Man & Anvil wanted to defend their WWF Tag Team Championship but that Andre felt it would be wrong to reward Knobbs & Saggs for their "nasty" behavior. The President closed by saying how much he was looking forward to the 1991 WWF Royal Rumble and hoped that the fans would enjoy it just as much. (90%)

Kato vs. "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan

As always, Mr. Fuji escorted his masked protege, while Mean Gene and Lord Alfred discussed last week's Duggan/Kato match-up on Challenge. Duggan came not only with his 2x4, but also the American flag, which led to him being blindsided by Kato while he was waving Old Glory. An okay match-up although slow in spots, as Kato seemed a bit slower and more methodical this week, while Duggan used his brawn. Eventually, Duggan planted Kato with a big powerslam and hooked the leg, but before he could pick up the win, Fuji climbed up on the apron to distract him. Duggan charged over and nailed Fuji with a big right hand, knocking him off the apron, while Kato attempted a sneak attack. However, Hacksaw anticipated it and blocked the shot, instead opening up on Kato with a series of left hands before whacking him with a roundhouse right. Duggan went into position for the Three Point Stance, when suddenly a masked man ran out to ringside. Duggan looked confused, as the man at ringside was...Kato?! While this was happening, the first Kato snuck up behind and grabbed Hacksaw in a reverse cradle for the 1-2-3. The fans seemed confused as both Katos waited for Duggan to get back to his feet after the bell, at which point they caught him with a vicious double savate kick to the jaw, knocking him unconscious. Fuji entered the ring smiling and removed the first Kato's mask, revealing...Sato, the original partner of Tanaka when The Orient Express first came to the WWF. A cackling Fuji left with both Sato & Kato while the referee revived Hacksaw. (63%)

After a commercial break, the strains of the bagpipes blared through the arena as the ever-popular "Rowdy" Roddy Piper strutted out onto the Piper's Pit set, looking basically the same as it did in the '80s. Hot Rod sat on one of the stools and said that it was great to be back in the Pit, and that he cried tears of joy when he was able to get the Million Dollar Man as his first guest. He said some people were afraid Piper might get a bit out of hand, considering that Ted DiBiase cost him a match a couple of weeks ago, but assured everybody that "anybody who knows ol' Hot Rod will tell ya, revenge AIN'T what I'm all about, no sir!" He said that DiBiase was a complicated man, with many complex layers to his personality, and that was the reason he wanted to interview him. After this, he introduced Ted DiBiase, who came out in a suit and tie, looking very smug and full of himself but still cautious of the unpredictable Piper. Piper sat back on his stool and invited DiBiase to sit on the other stool, but he declined, muttering sarcastically, "I'd rather stand, thanks." Piper asked if that was because DiBiase thinks he's better than Piper, to which DiBiase responded, "No... it's because I KNOW I'm better than you." The Scotsman jumped up and got in the Million Dollar Man's face as a heated argument broke out, ending when Piper decided to be the bigger man, asking DiBiase to leave the Pit. DiBiase gladly accepted, telling Piper they could settle it in the ring anytime before walking off the set. Suddenly, Piper picked up the stool and tossed it at DiBiase, then did the same with the other stool before running and diving on top of him. They rolled around on the floor brawling until finally several referees pulled them apart. (77%)

The Mountie vs. Big Boss Man

Jimmy Hart and his megaphone accompanied The Mountie but didn't last long, as the Big Boss Man chased the Mouth Of The South around ringside and up the aisle before the match officially started. When Boss Man returned to the ring, Mountie was all over him with kicks and punches to kick off the contest. A very solid bout, nothing fancy, with the Canadian looking good against the popular Georgian. After some back-and-forth action, Boss Man was able to avoid the dreaded Carotid Control Technique and whip The Mountie into the ropes, burying him on the rebound with the Boss Man Slam to score the pinfall. Afterwards, Mountie tried to attack but the Boss Man fought him off, much to the delight of the crowd. (72%)

Before signing off, Mean Gene and Lord Alfred had one final plug for the Hogan/Savage match, reminding viewers to tune into this Monday's Prime Time Wrestling.

Overall: 70%

Rating: 3.49

Attendance: 5,044

Ticket Sales: $302,640

(Once again, we squashed USWA Challenge, which scored a 0.34 rating in the same timeslot. Rumor has it that WWF Wrestling Challenge may be getting a name change to avoid being confused with the USWA.)

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, JANUARY 21, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Prior to the opening montage, an excellently-produced video package documenting the past history between Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage was played. It spanned from their first matches in 1986-87, to their Mega Powers partnership in 1988, their heated feud throughout 1989, and everything since then. Great stuff. (97%)

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura opened the show LIVE in the arena, shilling the Hogan/Savage main event, The Nasty Boys against The Bushwhackers, Kerry Von Erich taking on Rick Martel, Paul Roma battling Dusty Rhodes, and a whole lot more, less than a week away from the 1991 Royal Rumble.

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper vs. Brooklyn Brawler

Ventura spent the match running down Hot Rod, saying that when he used to host "The Body Shop", he never treated his guests the way that Piper treated Ted DiBiase on Piper's Pit. This turned out to be mostly a comedy match, with Piper borrowing liberally from the "Three Stooges" playbook, eye-poking, face-slapping, and toe-stomping the New Yorker. McMahon pushed the Scotsman as a viable contender in the 30-man Rumble this Sunday, as Piper wrapped the Brawler up in the Sleeper to secure the victory. (65%)

Back in the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan discussed tonight's lineup, including Hogan/Savage, before showing footage of the British Bulldog's challenge to Demolition from Superstars. Afterwards, they introduced Smash & Crush as their guests, wearing the trademark facepaint, leather, and studs, with black jeans and tank tops. Gorilla asked the former WWF Tag Team Champions why they've demolished Davey Boy the past two weeks on Prime Time, to which Crush answered, "WHY NOT?" Smash explained that after running roughshod over the WWF for the last four years, he felt Demolition was being taken for granted and now it was time to "start bustin' heads" again, starting with the Bulldog. Gorilla questioned why it was always two-on-one, and Smash said it wasn't their fault Smith has no friends. Monsoon then brought up the Bulldog's challenge, wondering whether or not the facepainted ruffians would accept. Crush became perturbed, asking Heenan if Monsoon was calling them cowards, but Smash calmed him momentarily and said they would love to hack Davey Boy to pieces in front of the world at the Royal Rumble, adding that they enjoy any opportunity to "kick that filthy dog's stinkin' teeth in!" Monsoon inquired if the identity of the Bulldog's partner mattered, but Smash insisted that "it don't matter who he brings with him, WE'LL KICK THEIR STINKIN' TEETH DOWN THEIR STINKIN' THROAT TOO!" Demolition left, threatening to hit Gorilla while Heenan just laughed. (68%)

"The Model" Rick Martel vs. "Texas Tornado" Kerry Von Erich

Throughout the match-up, McMahon hyped a non-title bout for this weekend's Superstars pitting Martel against the Ultimate Warrior, which is definitely a HUGE match for Superstars. Ventura said that if the Model can beat the Warrior in the non-title match and then win the 30-man Rumble on Sunday, he would have to be the favorite going into WrestleMania VII if Warrior is still WWF Champion at that time. This was a solid contest, although ended prematurely when Von Erich seemed to twist his knee when he was going for the Tornado Punch. Martel immediately applied the Boston Crab and got the quick submission. Afterwards, the Tornado had to be helped out of the ring. (74%)

Highlights of the February 1978 match where Bob Backlund won the WWF Championship from "Superstar" Billy Graham were aired, followed by the ending of the December 1983 match which saw Backlund lose the title to The Iron Sheik when Arnold Skaaland threw in the towel while the Sheik had Backlund trapped in the Camel Clutch. Then the screen went black, as the voiceover said, "Five years. One mistake. Seven years in exile." New footage was then shown, of an older Bob Backlund running up and down the steps of New York City's empty Madison Square Garden, working up a sweat, as the voiceover of Backlund himself announced, "But I'm not finished yet." The scene faded out on the Royal Rumble logo. Not the greatest return vignette, but surprising to see Backlund returning to the WWF. (67%)

In the arena, McMahon wondered if this meant that Bob Backlund would be a participant in the 30-man Rumble, while Ventura called Backlund a "relic" who should be part of a display in a wrestling museum, not returning to the WWF. They were interrupted by the growling "OHHHH, WWWWHAAAAAAT AAAAAA RRRRRRRUUUUUUUSSSSSSSHHHHHHH!!" followed by the music of the Legion Of Doom. Hawk & Animal marched out to the ring and took the microphone from a surprised Howard Finkel, who quickly jumped out to the floor. Animal apologized for the interruption (man, the WWF needs to quit sanitizing these guys!) but said that what happened last week with the appearance of "Precious" Paul Ellering was too important for them to sit in the locker room and wait for Ellering to show up again. They wanted to talk to him NOW. "Tell 'em Hawk!" Hawk reiterated that they hadn't seen Ellering in years and asked that if he was in the building tonight, they wanted him to come out. When he didn't appear after a couple of awkward minutes, the LOD went to leave, but their music cranked up again and the curtains parted, revealing the stone-faced Ellering, who slowly walked to the ring and was handed the mic. Ellering said it had been too long since he saw his "boys", and even longer since he had heard from them. He insinuated that once Hawk & Animal became big stars and signed with the WWF, they dropped him like a bad habit, drawing looks of confusion from the LOD. "But that's okay, and you know why? When I looked at the LOD, I didn't see a couple of friends and business partners. I saw two big, muscular, facepainted, butt-kicking, money-making DOLLAR SIGNS." Ellering continued, explaining that he had formed the LOD to line his own pockets, and that he was in the WWF to claim some of his "royalties". "But if you won't give them to me... gentlemen, meet the NEW Legion Of Doom!" Suddenly, Animal & Hawk were blindsided by two huge, facepainted monsters, quickly identified by Ventura as Warlord & Barbarian. McMahon questioned their affiliation with Precious Paul, who barked orders as the apparently-reformed Powers Of Pain swiftly and brutally beat down the Legion Of Doom using the element of surprise. Soon, a bevy of WWF officials flooded out to break it up, at which point Ellering called his dogs off and exited with Barbarian & Warlord, leaving the once-invincible LOD laid out as Prime Time went to commercial. (75%)

The Bushwhackers (Luke & Butch) vs. The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs)

As usual, Jimmy Hart accompanied the Nasties, while McMahon and Ventura talked about Paul Ellering apparently reforming the Powers Of Pain to take out the Legion Of Doom. They also discussed the Nasties' non-title match against The Hart Foundation at the Royal Rumble. This was a wild and woolly brawl, with Knobbs kicking out of the Bushwhacker Battering Ram when Saggs made the save. Several minutes later, Saggs covered Butch following the powerslam/flying Nasty Elbow combination to score the pinfall. Afterwards, at the orders of the Mouth Of The South, Saggs & Knobbs massacred Luke & Butch, battering them with kicks, stomps, punches, and other nasty tactics. They finished by clobbering each Bushwhacker with Jimmy's megaphone before leaving, looking proud of their dirty work. (69%)

Another vignette for "The King" Jerry Lawler aired, this one showing the arrogant Memphis legend in his "trophy room", lined with wrestling magazine covers, newspaper articles, trophies, medals, championship belts, various pictures (including the Andy Kaufman incident on David Letterman's show, although it was not pointed out specifically), and other memorabilia from his illustrious career. Lawler said that he realizes a lot of WWF fans aren't aware of who he is, but that would soon change. He then said there were a few special photographs he wanted to share, and pointed out some framed photos that featured the King mauling Randy Savage, choking Hulk Hogan, piledriving the Legion Of Doom's Hawk, facing off with Andre The Giant, battling Dusty Rhodes, and standing victorious over Kerry Von Erich, all from various territories throughout the late '70s and '80s. Lawler boasted about beating all of the WWF's major stars as they were making their way up, adding that for a long time he's been a big fish in a small pond, but now the "Kingfish" would finally be invading the biggest pond of them all at the Royal Rumble. The scene faded out on the Royal Rumble logo. (90%)

Paul "Romeo" Roma vs. "American Dream" Dusty Rhodes

Slick seconded Romeo, as this bout was used mostly to push the Power & Glory vs. Rhodes Family tag team match at the Royal Rumble. Not a great match by any means, although the fans were pretty into it. Roma outmaneuvered and outclassed the much older and slower American Dream, but the Dream fought back with his trademark crowd-pleasing spots. Dusty escaped from a prolonged armbar, at which point Slick hopped up on the apron to attract his attention. It appeared that the veteran "Son Of A Plumber" had fallen for the trap, but when Roma charged from behind, Dusty sidestepped him and Roma crashed into his own manager. After the Doctor Of Style fell to the floor, Roma turned around straight into a devastating Bionic Elbow from the American Dream, who picked up the three-count. Dusty immediately took off while Slick and Roma fumed in the ring. (73%)

Following the commercial break, Howard Finkel introduced WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior, who charged out to his music and ran around ringside before climbing into the squared circle, where he pumped his fists and beat his chest. After climbing on each turnbuckle and pointing to the cheering fans, the Warrior shook the ropes and screamed to his omnipresent gods. The Warrior then joined Vince McMahon and Jesse Ventura at ringside in an attempt to add the title of "Worst Guest Commentator Of All Time" to his resume. (93%)

"Macho Man" Randy Savage vs. "The Immortal" Hulk Hogan

After both superstars received long, drawn-out ring entrances, they engaged in a lengthy staredown while McMahon reminded viewers of the stipulation that if Savage can pin Hogan, he will earn a berth in the 30-man Royal Rumble this Sunday. Ventura questioned why a perennial top contender and former WWF Champion like Savage should have to earn his entry into the Rumble while guys like Lawler, Backlund, and Steamboat were given free rides. Warrior mumbled something about "the loudest wheel NOT ALWAYS getting the grease", as the Hulkster and the Macho Man finally locked up, with Hogan muscling Savage back into a corner. The bout continued at a leisurely pace until Savage took over and turned it up a few notches, keeping the advantage by wearing down the larger Hogan with high-impact, high-risk maneuvers such as running elbowsmashes, flying axhandles, jumping kneelifts, and the leaping guillotine across the top rope. However, with the Hulkamaniacs solidly behind him, Hogan made the big comeback, Hulking up and no-selling Savage's punches, answering with his own series of closed fists. When Hogan whipped Savage off to the ropes, though, referee Earl Hebner got in the way and was bumped. Savage retreated to the floor, yanking ring announcer Howard Finkel out of his seat and grabbing his chair. Hogan slid out and began chasing Savage, until the Macho Man stopped and swung the chair, which Hogan ducked. The Immortal stole the chair away and chased his former Mega Powers partner, who rolled back into the ring. Hogan followed back in with the chair and missed his shot, giving Savage the opportunity to low-blow the Hulkster and regain the chair, which he pasted Hogan with across the forehead. The official was regaining consciousness as the Macho Man tossed the chair out to the floor and climbed to the top turnbuckle, diving off with the patented Flying Elbowdrop. The ref came-to in time to count the 1-2-3 as Savage hooked Hogan's leg. McMahon sounded as if he was in shock, while Ventura praised the Macho Man for "overcoming the odds" to earn his place in the Royal Rumble. Warrior rambled on about something that translated to "the game is afoot" before the show ended on a shot of Savage standing on a turnbuckle absorbing the sea of boos. (89%)

Overall: 79%

Rating: 5.62

Attendance: 5,014

Ticket Sales: $300,840

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According to the Observer, Kerry Von Erich suffered a legitimate knee injury during the match with Rick Martel on Prime Time Wrestling, and could be out for a year and a half. We hope that the Texas Tornado can overcome this devastating injury and return to action as soon as possible.

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 1991 -- WWF WRESTLING CHALLENGE

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan introduced the program in their own way, hyping this Sunday's Royal Rumble, as well as today's non-title main event pitting Ultimate Warrior against Rick Martel, plus Koko B. Ware & Big Boss Man facing Greg Valentine & The Mountie, and Jake Roberts in action.

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund was standing by with the Powers Of Pain and Paul Ellering, who said that he was proud of what he did to the Legion Of Doom. When Okerlund asked Ellering how he acquired the services of Warlord & Barbarian who were previously under different management, Precious Paul replied that he made very lucrative deals with Slick and Bobby Heenan (respectively) behind the scenes to purchase their contracts, using the old adage "you gotta spend money to make money". Ellering said he would prove to all of the doubters that it was he who made the LOD, and since he made them, he could break them. (70%)

Powers Of Pain (Barbarian & Warlord) vs. Duane Gill & Barry Hardy

"Precious" Paul Ellering led out his new facepainted charges, while Heenan laughed, saying that "for some reason" whenever he sees Ellering, he thinks of money. Monsoon told Heenan that he should be ashamed of himself. This was a total squash, with the POP annihilating their opponents right away, tossing Gill out of the ring and focusing on Hardy. Hardy was quickly put away with an impressive finisher in which Warlord hoisted Hardy up into a powerbomb while Barbarian came off the top turnbuckle with a diving shoulderblock, driving the opponent to the canvas. Heenan said that Ellering calls the move the "End Of Days", and it was an easy 1-2-3 for the Barbarian. The Powers Of Pain looked like monsters and could be an impressive heel force with Precious Paul behind them. (58%)

Before a commercial break, cameras backstage showed Jake Roberts looking violently paranoid as he searched the locker room, opening every locker and closet, looking under tables and behind objects. He also questioned a couple of near-by jobbers if they had seen anybody following him, but they said they hadn't. Satisfied, Jake grabbed the sack containing Damian, and the camera followed him out into the hallway. After Jake had left, it looked like a masked man, far down the hallway watching the Snake, moved in the shadows. (83%)

Jake "The Snake" Roberts vs. The Black Phantom

Heenan claimed to have not seen anything, so Gorilla called him "ridiculous" and said it was apparent that somebody was stalking the Snake. Of course, it didn't help Jake's paranoid state of mind that his opponent this week wears a mask, causing him to point his finger at the Phantom, accusing him of following him around. The Phantom shook his head, but Jake cheapshotted him anyway and continued to hammer away with lefts and rights. Roberts dominated the match-up, drawing out the punishment before flooring the masked man with the short-arm clothesline. He yanked the Phantom up and snapped on the DDT to score the pinfall. Afterwards, Jake drilled the Phantom with another DDT and proceeded to yank off the mask, revealing...just some blond guy. Jake then left with Damian, as Monsoon pointed out how unusual it was that the Snake did not unleash his snake on his fallen opponent. (67%)

Sean Mooney interviewed Jimmy Hart, The Mountie, & Greg Valentine by the entrance curtain. Mooney first asked why Jimmy had ordered The Nasty Boys to destroy The Bushwhackers after their match on Prime Time, to which the Mouth Of The South responded that he heard that two more spots opened up in the 30-man Royal Rumble now that Luke & Butch were unable to compete, and he hoped the WWF would be able to fill them. Before Mooney could ask a follow-up question, The Mountie interrupted and said that he and the Hammer had business to attend to, namely teaching Koko B. Ware & Big Boss Man the true meaning of "law and order" after their crimes last weekend. (73%)

Greg "The Hammer" Valentine & The Mountie vs. Big Boss Man & Koko B. Ware

A solid tag team contest with a bit of a back story, as both the Birdman and the Boss Man defeated Jimmy Hart's men in singles match-ups last week. The Mouth Of The South got involved a couple of times, but paid for it when Boss Man nailed him with a straight right hand when he got up on the apron for the third time. This gave Mountie the chance to knock Boss Man out to the floor, following him out to brawl with him at ringside. Meanwhile on the inside, Valentine capitalized on Koko being distracted, dropping him with a vicious kneebreaker before tying him up in the Hartbreaker. Koko had no choice but to submit, as Gorilla pointed out that Koko's knee was still banged up from last week. Afterwards, the heels retreated while Boss Man came in to check on the Birdman. (69%)

After the commercial break, Slick made an unscheduled appearance, taking the microphone from Howard Finkel. The Doctor Of Style announced that since he had made so much money from selling the Warlord's contract to Paul Ellering, he had been able to re-sign a former protege of his and give him all the incentives that he deserves. He then introduced the newest member of his "elite group of beautiful people"... "The Model" Rick Martel! (77%)

Non-Title Match: "The Model" Rick Martel vs. Ultimate Warrior

Slick and Martel looked very pleased with each other, but their smiles soon disappeared when the Ultimate Warrior came charging down the aisle and immediately clotheslined the Doctor Of Style over the top rope. This gave Martel the opportunity to blindside the WWF Champion and take control, getting in some offense. After a couple of minutes, the Warrior began to no-sell the Model's offense, shaking the ropes as he made his comeback. Warrior pounded Martel with punches before mowing him down with a series of hard clotheslines, working the crowd into a frenzy. Warrior then Gorilla Pressed the Model and dropped him on his face, following up with a big splash off the ropes to earn the non-title victory in about five minutes. (80%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan hyped the Royal Rumble this Sunday as the Ultimate Warrior celebrated and the show ended.

Overall: 73%

Rating: 5.50

Attendance: 6,027

Ticket Sales: $361,620

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I think we have some pretty good storylines that are beginning to warm up as we head into the Royal Rumble, which looks like this...

30-Man Royal Rumble: Animal, Bob Backlund, Barbarian, Big Boss Man, Ted DiBiase, Jim Duggan, Hawk, Marty Jannetty, Kato, Jerry Lawler, Rick Martel, Shawn Michaels, The Mountie, Mr. Perfect, Roddy Piper, Dustin Rhodes, Dusty Rhodes, Jake Roberts, Tito Santana, Sato, Randy Savage, Jimmy Snuka, Ricky Steamboat, The Undertaker, Greg Valentine, Koko B. Ware, Warlord, ???, ???, ???

Non-Title Match: The Hart Foundation vs. The Nasty Boys

British Bulldog/Mystery Partner vs. Demolition

Rhodes Family vs. Power & Glory

Jimmy Snuka vs. The Undertaker

Three open slots in the Rumble due to the storyline injuries to The Bushwhackers, as well as the unfortunately legitimate injury suffered by Kerry Von Erich. It should be interesting to see who the WWF will put into those spots.

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BREAKING NEWS!

Straight from the Observer and confirmed by an article in Variety, NBC has been so pleased with the constant high ratings for the early-evening airing of WWF Wrestling Challenge that they have offered the WWF an incredible deal that would present weekly Saturday Night's Main Events, LIVE in prime time from 9:00-11:00, as the lead-in to local news which of course is followed by Saturday Night Live. This is an unprecedented move, one which Vince McMahon immediately agreed to, and should only serve to boost the sagging wrestling industry. As per the contract, NBC were able to select the commentators and surprisingly hired sports announcer Marv Albert. Joining him will be wrestling historian Mike Tenay, who despite his inexperience in the broadcast booth, should be able to make up for Albert's lack of wrestling knowledge. According to the report, there will also be guest commentators joining Albert and Tenay, including not just WWF stars, but also stars of other NBC series, in the interest of cross-promotion. To make room for the new program, "Golden Girls" and "Empty Nest" will be moved to 8:00 and 8:30, providing an interesting lead-in for the WWF. The changes are scheduled to take effect the first weekend in February, which is just in time for sweeps month.

FOX has also signed a similar deal for Sundays that will see WWF Superstars move to prime time on that young network, airing just before "Married... With Children", a popular sitcom. Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan will be co-hosting that program, which will be a taped show.

All of this in addition to the weekly Prime Time Wrestling live broadcasts on USA Network every Monday, hosted by Vince McMahon and Jesse Ventura, with Monsoon and Heenan still appearing in studio segments.

A new and exciting era in the WWF has been born!

[Chrononaut]

SUNDAY, JANUARY 27, 1991 -- WWF ROYAL RUMBLE

The Preview Show prior to the pay-per-view was hosted by Mean Gene Okerlund and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, who picked at each other while running down the matches and the stories behind them, as well as highlighting some of the favorites to win the 30-man Royal Rumble. As time counted down to the PPV, footage was shown from "Earlier This Afternoon" of various competitors drawing their random number for the Rumble as WWF President Andre The Giant supervised. Mr. Perfect drew his number, shrugging his shoulders before turning and accidentally bumping into Ricky Steamboat, who was waiting for his turn. Perfect took it personally and shoved the Dragon, who shoved back. The WWF Intercontinental Champion then hauled off and slapped Steamboat across the face, enraging him and triggering a brief pull-apart brawl which was quickly broken up by the surrounding wrestlers and officials, as well as the President himself. Perfect hollered that he would get Steamboat during the Rumble. (76%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura kicked off the pay-per-view broadcast from the stage at the back of the arena, hyping the matches and pushing the unpredictability of the 30-man Rumble.

Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes) vs. Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma)

Slick was decked out in some fine threads, living up to his "Doctor Of Style" moniker as he escorted Herc & Romeo for this opening match-up, which saw the Rhodes Family take the early lead on Roma with some quick tags between father and son. However, with some assistance from Slick, the heels took control as they worked over Dustin with some very nice double-team power moves. Eventually, Hercules and Dustin collided head-to-head and both crawled to their respective corners, making the tags. The American Dream charged in and cleaned house on both members of Power & Glory using fists and elbows. Dusty floored Roma with the Bionic Elbow and covered him, but Slick broke the pinfall by jumping up on the apron and distracting referee Danny Marsh. Dusty also went over to Slick, while Dustin did the same on the outside, giving Hercules the opportunity to slide in and clock the Dream with his trademark steel chain to the back of the head, then drag Roma on top of Dusty before exiting. The official turned in time to see Romeo covering Dusty and counted the 1-2-3 as the crowd booed. Hercules reached in and dragged Roma out to the floor just as Dustin rushed in. Power & Glory retreated with the Doctor Of Style while Dustin attended to his fallen father, who was bleeding, and vowed revenge on the heels. (77%)

Backstage, Jimmy Hart caught up with WWF President Andre The Giant outside of his office and asked him if he had found anybody to replace The Bushwhackers in the Royal Rumble. Andre said that he hadn't yet, so the Mouth Of The South asked if they could step into the President's office to discuss his proposal. Andre nodded and they both entered the office, slamming the door behind them. (79%)

The Undertaker vs. "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka

The crowd stood in awed silence as The Undertaker made his way down the aisle, with some of the older fans booing his manager Brother Love. The Superfly received a nice ovation upon his entrance, as Monsoon reminded viewers that the Dead Man had "throat-slammed" Snuka to the concrete floor on "The Brother Love Show". Ventura claimed that Snuka provoked the action by putting his hands on Love. A good "next step" in the continuing effort to get The Undertaker over, as he no-sold much of the respected veteran's offense including chops, punches, and even headbutts. Snuka managed to put the Grim Reaper down with a savate kick and climbed up top, diving off with the picture-perfect Superfly Splash. Undertaker kicked out and sat up, surprising the crowd. He then caught Superfly when he went for a flying bodypress, turning him upside-down and burying him with the Tombstone to pick up the victory. Afterwards, after Brother Love performed last rites, Undertaker sealed Snuka in a bodybag and carried him away. (77%)

Non-Title Match: The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs) vs. The Hart Foundation (Bret "Hit Man" Hart & Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart)

Monsoon speculated that Jimmy Hart's meeting with Andre The Giant earlier was an attempt to get Knobbs & Saggs into the Royal Rumble, thereby increasing his odds of coming out on top. Ventura said that was a great idea and maybe that's why Jimmy had the Nasties put The Bushwhackers out of action. This was a good, if somewhat formulaic, tag team bout in which the advantage shifted back and forth several times. It featured mostly brawling, with the Hit Man also displaying his "Excellence Of Execution", outwrestling the Nasties, while the commentators stressed how important non-title matches can be, as they can lead to title shots. The Mouth Of The South got involved a couple of times, most notably near the end when he climbed up on the apron after leaving his megaphone in the corner, as the Anvil was slugging it out with Knobbs. With referee Shane McMahon distracted, Saggs tossed the megaphone to Knobbs, but Neidhart intercepted it. Saggs rushed in and got clobbered with the megaphone, knocking him back outside. Just as the ref turned back to the action, Neidhart pasted Knobbs with the weapon, prompting an immediate disqualification. Realizing what he had done, the Anvil lost his temper, hurling the megaphone out to the floor, almost hitting Jimmy Hart. Anvil also grabbed the official by the neck, threatening him, until Bret was able to calm his partner and convince him to leave the ring. (79%)

The ring introductions for Demolition took place next, followed by Davey Boy Smith. The British Bulldog stopped at ringside, pointing at Smash & Crush in the squared circle and promising that they would pay for what they had done to him over the past few weeks. Davey Boy turned and pointed at the entrance curtains as Howard Finkel introduced his mystery tag team partner: "making his return to the WWF, from Manchester, England... THE DYNAMITE KID!!!" The older fans popped and Monsoon and Ventura couldn't believe it as the Dynamite Kid marched down to ringside wearing Union Jack tights to match those of Davey Boy. (68%)

Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith & Dynamite Kid)

Demolition were obviously not expecting the return of the Dynamite Kid, as they were immediately overwhelmed by The British Bulldogs when they charged into the ring and swarmed Smash & Crush. Ventura said that he thought Dynamite had suffered a career-ending back injury, allowing Monsoon to put over the recuperative powers of the risk-taking Englishman. The Bulldogs worked together almost as well as they did in their prime, cutting the ring in half and utilizing quick tags to wear down the larger Smash. Eventually, thanks to a cheap shot from Crush on the apron as the Kid ran into the ropes, Smash was able to escape and tag in the big man, giving Demolition the chance to rain double-axhandles down on Dynamite, who was then punished for several minutes as the crowd rallied behind him. Finally, Dynamite nailed Smash with an enziguiri when Smash caught his foot, allowing the Kid to make the hot tag to Davey Boy, who ran in and cleaned house. After a couple of minutes, Smith tagged Dynamite back in before planting Smash with the Running Powerslam, followed by the Diving Headbutt from the top turnbuckle by the Kid, who scored the pinfall. Afterwards, Crush attempted to exact some revenge but received a sweet double-dropkick from the Bulldogs, who left victorious to the delight of the fans. (81%)

Mean Gene Okerlund was live on the scene in the locker room, where a brawl had erupted between Ted DiBiase and Roddy Piper. Several other wrestlers intervened, trying to separate the two, but it just turned chaotic as the others began shoving and fighting with each other as well. Mean Gene said that this could be the wildest Royal Rumble of all time and evacuated the area after sending it back to Gorilla and Jesse. (78%)

30-Man Royal Rumble: Animal, Bob Backlund, Barbarian, Big Boss Man, "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan, Hawk, Marty Jannetty, Kato, "The King" Jerry Lawler, "The Model" Rick Martel, Shawn Michaels, The Mountie, Mr. Perfect, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Dustin Rhodes, "American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Tito Santana, Sato, "Macho Man" Randy Savage, "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, The Undertaker, Greg "The Hammer" Valentine, Koko B. Ware, Warlord, ???, ???, ???

The crowd buzzed with anticipation for the annual event as Howard Finkel introduced the man who drew #1: former WWF Champion Bob Backlund! He received a respectable reaction from the older fans and looked to be in fantastic shape as Monsoon put him over as arguably the greatest pure wrestler to ever hold the Heavyweight Championship of the World. Some familiar music cranked up when Finkel introduced entrant #2: Jimmy Hart came out first, followed by none other than the Honky Tonk Man! The crowd booed the former Intercontinental Champion as he wiggled his way down the aisle, while Ventura expressed his happiness with Honky Tonk's return. Gorilla guessed that this was why Jimmy met with Andre The Giant earlier. The bell rang and Backlund went right after the cocky Elvis impersonator, disorienting him with a succession of fireman's carry takedowns and other amateur maneuvers while Monsoon pointed out the distinct contrast in style and personality between the two. This continued for two minutes until Jake "The Snake" Roberts entered at #3, going after his WrestleMania III opponent, Honky Tonk. Roberts and Backlund worked together trying to oust Honky, until Rick "The Model" Martel ran out as #4, accompanied by Slick, and attacked Jake. Martel and Roberts slugged it out, while Backlund charged Honky, who dropped and pulled down the top rope, sending the former WWF Champion sailing out to the floor as the first elimination in the 1991 Royal Rumble. Backlund seemed frustrated, while Honky helped the Model double-team the Snake. #5, Big Boss Man, rushed out next and cleaned house, hammering both heels with stiff punches. Jimmy Hart then caught the Boss Man's attention, making the big Georgian the second elimination when Martel and Honky snuck up from behind and dumped him over the top rope. Boss Man chased the Mouth Of The South around ringside until the referees forced him to return to the locker room, just as Hawk came out at #6. The Legion Of Doom member hit the ring and pounded both Honky and Martel, cutting them down with a double-clothesline. He pressed the Model over his head, ready to toss him out, but Honky made the save by clipping Hawk's knee. Mr. Fuji led out #7, Kato, who bowed to his manager before entering the fray, stomping and kicking Hawk along with Honky Tonk while Martel and Roberts both rested. Tito Santana entered at #8, catching Kato right off the bat with the Flying Forearm and raining down punches on him. Hawk fought off the Honky Tonk Man and tried to put him out, as the buzzer went off again and after some hesitation, Dynamite Kid came out as #9, apparently substituting for "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka, according to Monsoon, who said that nobody had seen Snuka since his match with The Undertaker. Dynamite went right after Martel, hammering away with a series of nasty headbutts, while Honky escaped from Hawk after a thumb to the eye. The crowd reacted with a huge heel pop when Mr. Perfect stepped out at #10, leisurely strolling to the ring as he surveyed the ongoing carnage. Perfect watched from the outside until #11, Animal, roared down the aisle, grabbing the WWF Intercontinental Champion along the way and forcing him in under the bottom rope. Animal followed in and went to work on Perfect, who attempted to scramble away but ran into Hawk. The LOD worked Perfect over, as Roberts punished the masked Kato. Gorilla reminded viewers of the Snake's situation with masked men, and Ventura said that Jake lost his vision to Martel last year, and now he was losing his mind. Jake tried to unmask Kato, until Greg "The Hammer" Valentine came in at #12 and drilled his rock-hard elbow across the back of Jake's head, trying to put him over the top rope. Kato and Honky Tonk tried to help, but the Snake wrapped himself around the ropes and held on tight. The Barbarian entered as #13, escorted by "Precious" Paul Ellering, and immediately attacked the Legion Of Doom, saving Perfect, who repaid the favor by running away and taking a breather. LOD overpowered the lone Barbarian, but their double-team backfired when Barbarian ducked and Animal accidentally clotheslined Hawk over the top rope, making him the third elimination. Hawk went to take his frustration out on the laughing Ellering, but the officials stopped him and sent him back. Barbarian choked Animal down as "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase entered at #14 and joined the growing heel contingent trying to oust Jake Roberts, who still held on. He was followed by #15, Shawn Michaels, who attempted to disperse the mob by hitting each one, so they turned their attentions to the Rocker and tried to put him out. Jake slithered back in and made the save, punching DiBiase, Martel, and then Kato. Dynamite Kid caught Valentine with a surprise dropkick that knocked him over the top rope for the fourth elimination, just as The Undertaker, with Brother Love, marched out as #16. Undertaker went after anyone that moved, heel or face, with supernaturally-quick lefts and rights, before gripping Santana by the throat and hurling the former Intercontinental Champion over the top rope for the 5th elimination. The Pale Destroyer continued his path of destruction as Randy "Macho Man" Savage entered at #17 to a loud chorus of boos. Savage came in like a wildman, knocking down the few superstars that Undertaker hadn't victimized yet, leaving the Macho Man and the Dead Man staring each other down as Dusty Rhodes joined the Rumble at #18. Showing no fear, Savage went toe-to-toe with the Reaper, as some of the other competitors (including Rhodes, Roberts, Dynamite, Animal, and Michaels) got up and joined the former WWF Champion in ousting The Undertaker, putting him over the top rope as the 6th elimination. Undertaker landed on his feet on the floor and glared up at those who had eliminated him, threatening to get back in until Brother Love promised that "their time will come" and led him away. At the same time, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan marched out as #19 and went right after Kato, unleashing a series of closed fists on the masked man. The ring was getting crowded, and only got worse when Sato ran out at #20, attacking Duggan from behind and saving his partner Kato. The Orient Express double-teamed Hacksaw, while Barbarian and Animal slugged it out. #21 was The Mountie, who high-fived Jimmy Hart at ringside before entering the fracas, rescuing the Honky Tonk Man from the American Dream. Mountie and Honky worked Dusty over, while Michaels fought Martel near the ropes. A mini-tag match had also broken out, with Duggan & Roberts battling The Orient Express, as Dynamite traded fists with Perfect. Still no more eliminations as the buzzer went off again and the crowd popped big-time for the return of Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat at #22. The Dragon immediately targeted Honky Tonk, dragging him away from Mountie and Rhodes as Gorilla reminded viewers that it was Honky who took the Intercontinental Title from Steamboat in 1987. Steamboat chopped away at the reddening chest of Honky before grabbing him by the hair and charging across the ring, tossing him over the top rope for the 7th elimination. It was time for entrant #23, and the Texas Tornado's music began to play, confusing Monsoon and Ventura, who said that the Tornado was out injured. Out came a young man looking a bit like the Tornado, identified by Monsoon as Kerry's older brother Kevin Von Erich, substituting for his sidelined sibling. Kevin went right after Rick Martel, Monsoon speculating that Von Erich blamed the Model for his brother's injury. The buzzer sounded and the bagpipes blared as "Rowdy" Roddy Piper raced out at #24, aiming for the Million Dollar Man but was intercepted by Barbarian at the orders of Paul Ellering. Monsoon suggested that DiBiase had been spreading his money around again as Barbarian choked Piper with his foot in a corner, while DiBiase and Savage joined forces to dump Dusty Rhodes over the top for the 8th elimination. DiBiase and Savage then joined Barbarian in punishing Hot Rod in the corner, as the French National Anthem cranked up and Jimmy Hart stood by the aisleway applauding. Gorilla wondered why, until Dino Bravo (with a new buzzcut) emerged as #25, shaking hands with Jimmy on the way down as Ventura called the Mouth a "genius" and welcomed the return of the Canadian Strongman. Bravo saved The Mountie from Dynamite Kid, hammering the British Bulldog with heavy forearms across the back. The crowded ring got even fuller when "The King" Jerry Lawler made his long-awaited WWF debut at #26, entering with trepidation and picking his spots as Ventura put him over as a very cerebral competitor in the class of Perfect and DiBiase. Meanwhile, Dynamite fought off Bravo and back-bodydropped The Mountie over the top rope when the Canadian charged, becoming the 9th elimination. Mountie threw a tantrum at ringside as Marty Jannetty rushed out at #27, saving partner Shawn Michaels from the King. The Rockers took turns punching Lawler until Savage blindsided Jannetty with a double-axhandle. Lawler then fell flat on his face a la Ric Flair, fueling rumors that the King will be built up as the WWF's answer to the Nature Boy. Steamboat and Kevin Von Erich struggled to put Mr. Perfect out, as the Warlord lumbered out at #28, going after Animal, who almost had the Million Dollar Man eliminated. Barbarian also came over, making it a three-on-one assault on the LOD member. Soon after, #29 was Dustin Rhodes, who tossed out Sato as soon as he hit the ring, marking the 10th elimination. Kato attacked Dustin immediately, chopping and kicking the second-generation superstar. The commentators remarked at the mass of humanity in the squared circle as the final entrant, Koko B. Ware, made his way out; Ventura made a snide comment that the 30th spot was wasted on the Birdman since he had no chance of winning anyway. The Model was pressed overhead by Animal, who had fought off DiBiase and the Powers Of Pain with help from Duggan and Roberts, and tossed to the floor for the 11th elimination. Meanwhile, the Million Dollar Man shifted his weight during a brawl with Duggan on the ropes, ousting Hacksaw as the 12th elimination. A couple of minutes later, Kevin Von Erich was tossed out as the 13th elimination by the Macho Man. The Rumble continued with random fights breaking out, as a heated exchange went on between Dynamite Kid and Mr. Perfect, trading vicious reverse knife-edge chops, putting welts on each other's chests. Perfect however snuck in a kick to the groin, then picked Dynamite up in a fireman's carry and dumped him out to the floor as the 14th elimination. Dino Bravo had Steamboat pressed over his head and walked over to the ropes to drop him out, but the Dragon slipped out and landed behind the Canadian, dropkicking him in the back to send him over the top rope for the 15th elimination. The ring continued to finally empty when the King ducked a charging Shawn Michaels, who accidentally knocked Jannetty over the top rope, the 16th elimination. Lawler then grabbed Michaels by the tights and heaved him out on top of Jannetty for the 17th elimination. The Rockers argued with each other as they headed back to the locker room. Dustin Rhodes jumped Lawler, trying unsuccessfully to push him over the ropes, while elsewhere Jake Roberts choked Kato against the ropes, then stepped back and spiked the masked man with a stiff right hand, making him the 18th elimination. Savage elbowsmashed the Snake and struggled with him on the ropes, as the Warlord scooped up Koko B. Ware over his shoulder and charged across, hurling the Birdman out to the floor for the 19th elimination. Ventura pointed out to Monsoon that he was right about "the Birdbrain". Animal charged from behind, clotheslining Warlord over the top for the 20th elimination. Warlord and Animal yelled at each other, when suddenly Barbarian snuck up and nailed Animal with a boot to the back of the head; Warlord helped by grabbing the LOD member by the head and pulling him out for the 21st elimination. Animal and Warlord then brawled up the aisle, while on the inside Perfect slugged it out with Dustin Rhodes, as Piper and DiBiase also traded fists. Savage and Lawler worked over Steamboat in the corner, stomping and choking the former Intercontinental Champion. When the Barbarian headed over to help the Million Dollar Man, Jake the Snake struck out, stopping the Power Of Pain with a succession of quick jabs, backing him against the ropes. Roberts took a few steps back and charged, but Barbarian ducked and back-bodydropped the Snake over the top rope. However, Jake landed on the apron on his back and waited for Barbarian to face him, at which point Jake reached up with his long legs and gripped the big man in a headscissor, sliding back under the bottom rope as he yanked Barbarian over the top rope out to the floor to score the 22nd elimination. Savage immediately pounced on Roberts, banging his head on the mat repeatedly, while the King still attempted to eliminate the Dragon. Elsewhere, Rhodes hammered away on Perfect with the old "Flip, Flop, and Fly" before winding up for the big punch, but the Intercontinental Champion ducked and back-bodydropped the Son Of The Dream out to the floor as the 23rd elimination. Monsoon put over Dustin's performance as very respectable for a "rookie", while Ventura mocked him. Perfect then snuck up on DiBiase and Piper, who were tangling near the ropes, and was able to shove them both over the top, earning the 24th and 25th eliminations. The Million Dollar Man and Hot Rod fought back to the locker room, while Ventura chastised Monsoon for not "giving the devil his due" where DiBiase was concerned, as he entered at #14 and lasted over 45 minutes. Perfect finally squared off with Steamboat to the crowd's delight, exchanging chops, kicks, and punches, while the Macho Man took a breather. The Snake and the King were going at it, with Lawler sneaking in a kick to the gut and hooking Roberts up for his trademark Royal Piledriver, but Jake somehow blocked it and stood up, tossing Lawler over the top to the floor as the 26th elimination, leaving Roberts, Savage, Steamboat, and Perfect as the "final four" of the 1991 Royal Rumble. Ventura praised Lawler, pointing out how well he hung with the WWF's top stars and predicting that the King would be a force to be reckoned with in the weeks to come. A sweaty, exhausted-looking Snake went after Savage in the corner, but the Macho Man dropped down and used his leverage to catapult Jake over the top rope, making him the 27th elimination. The fans gave the Snake a standing ovation, as Gorilla announced that he had lasted almost 90 minutes, a superhuman feat. Understandably, Roberts had to be helped back to the locker room as he looked just about ready to pass out. Meanwhile, Savage rested again while Steamboat and Perfect continued their own private war, now blocking and reversing each other's hiptosses until they reached the ropes and the Dragon hiptossed the Intercontinental Champion over the top out to the floor as the 28th elimination. The commentators put it over as another "iron man" performance, the Flawless One lasting a little over an hour. Savage immediately blindsided Steamboat with a knee to the back, knocking him over the top rope, but the Dragon "skinned the cat", lifting his legs back up and grabbing Savage in a headscissor. However, Savage held onto the ropes and would not go over, instead yanking Steamboat back into the ring by his legs and stomping him on the mat. Savage dragged Steamboat to his feet and ran across the ring, trying to toss him out, but Steamboat put on the brakes and Savage went over instead. Savage landed on the apron and rolled back in, then attempted to overpower his WrestleMania III opponent, but Steamboat refused to go out. Savage lifted Steamboat and propped him up on the top turnbuckle, following him up there and slugging it out in an attempt to knock him down to the floor. After a few shots, the Dragon blocked the fists and fired back, knocking the Macho Man back down to the canvas. Steamboat gained his footing on the top turnbuckle as Savage stood up, and the Dragon dove with his patented Flying Bodypress, but Savage dodged it and Steamboat crashed to the mat. Steamboat limped to his feet and Savage quickly clotheslined the Dragon over the top rope, winning the 1991 WWF Royal Rumble. Savage celebrated on the turnbuckles while the crowd gave the Macho Man a mixed reaction, with some fans respecting his effort while others still hated him. (74%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura signed off the pay-per-view raving about the Royal Rumble and hyping the proposed Randy Savage vs. Ultimate Warrior WWF Championship match for WrestleMania VII.

Overall: 76%

Buyrate: 1.15

Attendance: 13,620

PPV Revenue: $2,875,000

Ticket Sales: $817,200

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, JANUARY 28, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura kicked things off from ringside, talking about the previous night's Royal Rumble. Ventura talked about Randy Savage's "against all odds" victory in the 30-man Rumble, while McMahon announced that tonight we would see the Macho Man and the Ultimate Warrior face-to-face, as well as the Rockers challenging the Hart Foundation for the Tag Team Title in the main event, Dustin Rhodes taking on Hercules, Jerry Lawler in action, and the return of the Conquistadors.

"The King" Jerry Lawler vs. Italian Stallion

The King made a royal entrance similar to those of past WWF Kings such as Harley Race and Haku, being carried upon a platform by several muscular men, as the commentators put over his performance in the 30-man Royal Rumble. Lawler scoffed at the pudgy Italian Stallion and proceeded to dismantle him with his deliberate, methodical offense, including suplexes, slams, and the diving fistdrop from the middle turnbuckle. The King finished off the Stallion with his patented Royal Piledriver. (57%)

After his match, Jerry Lawler kicked the Italian Stallion out of the ring and took the microphone. The King claimed that he was well on his way to winning the Royal Rumble last night, but Jake "The Snake" Roberts "cheated" and had him eliminated. Lawler said that he would not stand for such "insubordination" in his new kingdom and challenged Roberts to meet him one-on-one this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. (80%)

A promo aired, hyping a huge match between "Macho Man" Randy Savage and Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat for this weekend's Saturday Night's Main Event on NBC. The video featured highlights of their heated feud throughout 1986-87, including Savage crushing Steamboat's larynx, and the Dragon capturing the Intercontinental Championship from the Macho Man at WrestleMania III. It concluded with their battle at the end of last night's Royal Rumble, claiming that the two long-time rivals had some "unfinished business". (76%)

The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith & Dynamite Kid) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

McMahon discussed the return of the masked Conquistadors, wondering if they would be able to improve upon their previous win/loss record, while Ventura reminded him that any competitor can come out victorious in any given match. The Bulldogs received a nice ovation from the fans, and this actually turned out to be a pretty good match. It looks like the WWF has put two different workers under the gold masks and bodysuits of the Conquistadors, as they pulled off some very athletic maneuvers and gained a few near-falls on the Englishmen. During the match, McMahon hyped a special sit-down interview with Hulk Hogan for Saturday Night's Main Event. Eventually, Dynamite put #2 away with the Diving Headbutt, following the Running Powerslam from Davey Boy. Afterwards, while the Bulldogs were celebrating, Demolition stormed the ring and assaulted Dynamite & Davey Boy from behind. Smash & Crush pounded on them with their spiked leather gloves and left the Bulldogs laid out. (71%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon was horrified at the villainous actions of Demolition, while Bobby "The Brain" Heenan was glad that they were unleashing their killer instinct. They quickly talked about the Royal Rumble and the returns and debuts that took place within the 30-man Rumble, highlighting their next guest, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, who entered the studio. Gorilla congratulated the Dragon on his impressive return and chiseled physique, calling him one of the most well-conditioned athletes ever to step foot in the squared circle. Steamboat thanked him, as well as the fans for giving him such a warm welcome back to the WWF, before Heenan snidely asked him how it felt when Randy Savage brought his hopes and dreams crashing down by tossing him over the top rope. The Dragon took it in stride and said that there would be other opportunities and that his ultimate goal was to one day win the WWF Championship. Monsoon pointed out that he would definitely rise in the rankings if he could once again pull off a victory over the Macho Man this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event, "check your local listings". Steamboat said that he was looking forward to the challenge, and promised to put in his best effort against the Macho Man, who he named as "probably my toughest opponent" in his career. Steamboat also mentioned his family when asked by Monsoon, saying that his wife and son were doing great, but that this time around he would be leaving them at home, concerned for their safety. Gorilla wished him well while the Brain offered a sarcastic comment, before the Dragon shook hands with Gorilla and left. (79%)

Backstage at the arena, Slick was shown giving Hercules a pep talk, preparing him for his match with "that jive turkey rookie" Dustin Rhodes. Herc caressed his steel chain and grinned, telling the Doctor Of Style that he was "more than ready" for the Son Of The Dream. (72%)

Hercules vs. Dustin Rhodes

Slick accompanied the Mighty One, while Dustin came out alone, looking a bit nervous. Ventura said that the rookie Rhodes had no chance against the experienced veteran Hercules, and it looked that way from the start when Herc easily muscled the lean Dustin into a corner off the opening lock-up. Hercules continued to overpower Dustin throughout the match, with the Son Of The Dream getting in a few hope spots, using roll-ups, small packages, and a sunset flip. Eventually, McMahon pointed out that the older and heavier Hercules seemed to be running out of steam, as Dustin kept kicking out of his pin attempts. Dustin mounted a comeback, firing off punches, elbows, and a nicely-executed standing dropkick, sending Herc rolling out to ringside to consult with Slick. Referee Tim White had to keep holding back the exuberant Rhodes from following his opponent to the floor, while Slick passed the steel chain to Hercules, who returned to the ring and bashed Dustin in the head from behind. The ref immediately called for the disqualification, as Herc continued to smash Dustin in the head with the chain. When the official tried to stop him, Hercules shoved him back through the ropes and went back to work, yelling at the rookie as he punished him. Finally, Dusty Rhodes appeared with his head bandaged from last night, fighting off Paul Roma along the way, and was able to chase away Hercules. Power & Glory left with Slick, smirking at the Rhodes Family. (76%)

In the studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan argued over the on-going mayhem in the WWF, before bringing in the Legion Of Doom, who wore Zubaz pants and their LOD t-shirts along with the trademark facepaint. The Brain kept quiet as Gorilla welcomed Hawk & Animal, and asked them about their past relationship with Paul Ellering. Animal said that he and Hawk were bodybuilders, and that they met Precious Paul during a weightlifting exhibition, where they began talking because Paul was also from Chicago. Hawk said that Ellering told them there was no money in weightlifting, but said if they were tough enough, he could get them into professional wrestling. Hawk added that "deviating septums and cashing checks" sounded good to them, so Ellering used his contacts to break them into wrestling. Animal claimed that they were naturals and started "kicking butts" all over the world, while Ellering started doing less work and taking bigger cuts of their "winners' purses". He said that didn't bother them because they owed everything to Paul and without him, they might never have made it to the WWF. Hawk was quick to point out that just because Paul got them into wrestling didn't mean that he "made" the LOD, and that he sure wasn't going to "break" them. Animal continued his story, telling Gorilla that they were forced to sever ties with Ellering due to his increasing demands, but that he and Hawk were under the impression that the three could still be friends. After that, Hawk explained that Ellering moved and changed his phone number, and they hadn't seen or heard from him again until he showed up on Prime Time during the LOD's match with Power & Glory. Hawk said he had had his suspicions before, but now it was clear that Ellering was all about money, and that he had used the LOD for his own personal gain for all those years. Animal expressed disappointment that Paul had hooked up with "those two Legion Of Doom wanna-bes", the Powers Of Pain, and said that he was crazy if he thinks that he can recreate the success of the LOD. Hawk said that the LOD is a "force of nature", not created by man, and that Barbarian & Warlord are "soulless", which is why Ellering's plan won't work out. Animal added that if the POP can knock off the LOD, they'll be the first ones to pass the torch, but that it wouldn't happen "in a million years". Hawk finished by growling that the LOD "dine on danger and snack on death, and Paul, dead men don't make money!" Wow. An amazing interview, one that has really kicked this feud into a higher gear, I think. (85%)

WWF Tag Team Title Match: The Hart Foundation (Bret "Hit Man" Hart & Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart) [champions] vs. The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty)

McMahon informed viewers that the Nasty Boys would be interviewed in the Prime Time studio following this match-up, and hyped a singles bout between Bret Hart and Jerry Saggs for this weekend's Superstars. The Hit Man shook hands with Shawn Michaels prior to the initial lock-up, signaling the sportsmanlike contest that would occur. A very athletic match, with the crowd cheering both sides for their impressive maneuvers. Even the Anvil pulled out his old standing dropkick to wow the fans. The Rockers briefly displayed some heelish tendencies, which could either be foreshadowing or just to create a better dynamic within the bout. This one went about 15 minutes, ending when Neidhart covered Jannetty after the Hart Attack. A heel turn by the Rockers was teased afterwards, but instead all four men shook hands, which the crowd really seemed to appreciate. (82%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan agreed that the Tag Team Title match was fantastic, although the Brain was hoping for more hair-pulling and eye-gouging. Heenan said that that was why he was a big fan of their next guests, introducing the Nasty Boys along with Jimmy Hart, who came in and acted like the rude slobs that they are, wiping their hands on Gorilla's jacket and putting their feet up on the desk. Knobbs bragged about their non-title victory over the Hart Foundation at the Royal Rumble, neglecting to mention that it was a disqualification win, instead boasting that they "wiped the mat" with the WWF Tag Team Champions, in their first match with them, no less. The Mouth Of The South jabbered about WWF President Andre The Giant now "owing" the Nasties a title shot, and that it should have been Saggs & Knobbs challenging the Harts tonight, not the Rockers. Monsoon claimed that the Harts/Rockers match was signed weeks ago, and Knobbs said that was okay, because one day they will get their chance and they will take the gold back home to Allentown, PA. Saggs pointed out that he wouldn't have to wait, because he was going to "Nastify" Bret Hart this weekend on Superstars, since the Hit Man wouldn't have "his big buddy", the Anvil, around to protect him. Jimmy asked Knobbs if he was busy on Sunday, and when Knobbs said no, the three of them laughed like rabid hyenas before taking off. (85%)

Back in the arena after a commercial break, "Pomp And Circumstance" blared triumphantly as "Macho Man" Randy Savage made his way down to the ring, where Mean Gene Okerlund was waiting. Savage bragged about winning the 30-man Royal Rumble, adding that he "singlehandedly" eliminated five men. He said that his WWF Title shot at WrestleMania VII in April seemed a long way off, and he planned to fill the time by facing each man he eliminated, one-on-one, starting with Ricky Steamboat on Saturday Night's Main Event. Savage claimed to be the reason that the Dragon left the WWF in the first place and predicted that he would send him packing once again. He then mentioned that April must seem like a distant future to the Ultimate Warrior as well, cryptically hoping that "nothing happens" to the Warrior before WrestleMania. The Macho Man claimed that he heard that the Warrior was somewhere in the building tonight and challenged him to come out and stand nose-to-nose "with the man who's going to take your career, your life, and your WWF Championship, OHHH YEAH!" The Warrior's music hit, and the WWF Champion came charging down the aisle, stopping on the apron to beat his chest and call out to all of his "Little Warriors". Warrior stepped into the ring, pointing at Savage as he told Mean Gene that "this WILL NOT BE the man to end the legacy of the chosen Warrior", amidst other rambling statements. Savage responded that the Warrior's days were numbered, and he would prove it by mowing down all of the top contenders over the next couple of months, before taking the belt at WrestleMania, challenging Warrior to try to do the same. The champ responded affirmatively, vowing to defend his "Warrior's honor" leading up to WrestleMania, where he promised to finally vanquish the Macho Man. Warrior and Savage stood face-to-face and nose-to-nose in the middle of the ring as Mean Gene signed off on behalf of McMahon and Ventura. (87%)

Overall: 78%

Rating: 5.83

Attendance: 6,040

Ticket Sales: $362,400

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BREAKING NEWS!

Despite experts' predictions, the WWF is expecting an upturn in business as a result of their new prime-time television deals with NBC and FOX. They have been adding to the existing roster, and now have implemented a revolutionary pay-per-view schedule, featuring six events at the regular price, with six other events at a cheaper price. The cheaper events are intended mostly to build the major shows and will be aired free of charge in sports bars around the world, in hopes of attracting more casual viewers, who will then order the more expensive "major" PPVs in the comfort of their own homes. The schedule, shown in a press release issued today (January 30, 1991), looks like this...

January: Royal Rumble

February: Battle Lines

March: March To WrestleMania

April: WrestleMania

May: War Zone

June: King Of The Ring

July: Wrestlefest

August: SummerSlam

September: Showdown

October: Black Sabbath

November: Survivor Series

December: No Holds Barred

Certainly an "experiment" of this magnitude has never before been attempted, and it could make or break the WWF, but this company has always pushed the envelope as it relates to territories, cable, and PPV, and apparently will continue to do so.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Celebrating birthdays in January were...

Animal (31)

Conquistador #1 (26)

Ted DiBiase (37)

"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan (38)

Jimmy Hart (39)

Honky Tonk Man (38)

Kato (30)

Bushwhacker Luke (44)

Paul Roma (31)

Kevin Von Erich (34)

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

After a new opening montage featuring the familiar Saturday Night's Main Event theme, we see NBC sports announcer Marv Albert alongside a new face: a young "goldfish in a bowl" looking man, identified as "wrestling historian" Mike Tenay. Both men are wearing tuxedos, and they are in a broadcast booth high above the arena, similar to the position on Monday Night Football. Already we are getting a more "credible/legitimate sport" type feeling, as Albert welcomes viewers to the brand-new weekly LIVE Saturday Night's Main Event series and introduces Tenay. They talk about what a huge night this will be, featuring Roddy Piper against Greg Valentine, Jake Roberts facing Jerry Lawler, Koko B. Ware meeting The Undertaker, and a whole lot more, capped off by the big main event of Ricky Steamboat taking on Randy Savage.

Powers Of Pain (Barbarian & Warlord) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

Paul Ellering accompanied the Powers Of Pain, as Tenay gave an abbreviated history of both tag teams and the current storylines, which is a valuable service both for Albert to familiarize himself even more with the product (although apparently he has done a lot of research in preparation for his new job) as well as for casual fans just tuning in. Tenay would continue to do so throughout the broadcast. The POP thoroughly dominated their masked opponents, finally putting #1 away with the End Of Days, after which Barbarian made the academic cover. (66%)

Mean Gene Okerlund came out to ringside to interview the Powers Of Pain and Paul Ellering following their match. Precious Paul said that he watched Prime Time Wrestling on Monday and he felt sick to his stomach. When Okerlund asked why, Ellering told him that he was "absolutely disgusted" with the Legion Of Doom's interview and their whining and crying over friendships lost. He claimed that Hawk & Animal were "weak" now that they were feeling "human emotions" and would be easy prey for his new creation. Ellering promised to reveal his side of the story this Monday on Prime Time. (78%)

"Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich vs. Dino Bravo

Tenay correctly identified this as Kevin Von Erich's singles debut in the WWF, and his first appearance under the "Texas Twister" moniker. Jimmy Hart accompanied his returning Canadian Strongman, now sporting a naturally brown buzzcut and red and black trunks and boots, for this contrast of styles match-up. Kevin seems to have bulked up a bit since the last time I saw him in the USWA, but he still seems to have the skills as evidenced in this solid bout. Bravo's power moves still looked crisp, but when he executed the Airplane Spin, the Twister wriggled down in mid-spin and surprised Bravo with a sunset flip for the upset pin. A red-faced Bravo immediately shoved referee Mark Johnson away and attacked Von Erich, scooping him up and slamming him viciously with the trademark Side Suplex. Bravo then yelled in the Twister's face about respect, while the Mouth Of The South snuck in a few cheap stomps before they left together. (70%)

In the locker room, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed The Undertaker and Brother Love, who predicted "certain death" for Koko B. Ware, but promised that his burial would be full of "LOOOOOOOOVE". Okerlund questioned the gruesome twosome on the whereabouts of "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka, who he claimed had not been seen since being carried away in a bodybag at the Royal Rumble. Love assured Mean Gene that Snuka was in a "better place", while Undertaker warned the veteran interviewer not to ask questions that he didn't want to know the answers to. "And trust me... that is a question... you DON'T want to know the answer to." (73%)

Koko B. Ware vs. The Undertaker

Albert was in awe of the sheer size and aura of the Dead Man, who was as always escorted by Brother Love, while Tenay put him over as the most impressive newcomer to the WWF in a long time. The Bird Man tried to get in some of his high-flying offense, but most of it was no-sold by the Undertaker, who finally planted Koko with the Tombstone for the 1-2-3. Afterwards, Love performed last rites on Koko as the Reaper dropped a handful of dirt on his unconscious opponent. Tenay still wondered what happened to Jimmy Snuka. (72%)

A pre-recorded sit-down studio interview between Vince McMahon and Hulk Hogan aired next. They began by talking about the Hulkster's new movie, "Suburban Commando", which Hogan said he has high hopes for. He described it as an action-adventure/sci-fi film that the whole family can enjoy, adding that he was very proud of it and called it his best work yet. McMahon asked when Hogan would be back in the squared circle, giving the legendary Immortal pause for thought. After a few awkward moments, Hogan replied that he wasn't sure if he would ever come back to the WWF. When asked why, Hogan answered that he was disappointed with his loss to Randy Savage in his last appearance on Prime Time Wrestling and said that, even though the Macho Man cheated, "the old Hulkster" would have been able to overcome that and win the match. He said that he felt like he let down WWF President Andre The Giant, as well as his little Hulkamaniacs all around the world, speculating that maybe he's "gone soft" during his time in Hollywood. He suggested that perhaps the WWF had passed him by, and that Hollywood was where he belongs now. Hogan seemed very down, and told Vince that he hadn't made up his mind yet, but when he makes his final decision, he promised that McMahon, Andre, and all the Hulkamaniacs will be the first ones to know. McMahon shook the Hulkster's hand and wished him well in his future endeavors, whatever they may be. (96%)

"The King" Jerry Lawler vs. Jake "The Snake" Roberts

The commentators talked about the Hulk Hogan interview, expressing their hope to see the Immortal return to the WWF and how sad it would be if the Hulkster were to retire. The King made his grand entrance again, while the Snake brought his sack containing Damian. Tenay reminded viewers that the Snake eliminated the King from the Royal Rumble and lasted almost an hour and a half, as Lawler blindsided Roberts while he was placing the sack in his corner. The two veterans traded the advantage back and forth in an old-school style match-up, with Lawler taking every shortcut in the book while Jake fought back with his usual cunning maneuvers, although he seemed slightly distracted. Tenay recalled Jake's recent paranoia over masked men and suggested that maybe that was what was on his mind. Eventually, Lawler capitalized on Jake's lack of focus, ducking the short-clothesline and rolling the Snake up using a handful of tights to score the pinfall. The King quickly took off afterwards raising his hand in victory, while Roberts pounded the mat in frustration. (77%)

Backstage in the locker room, Jesse "The Body" Ventura was standing between Greg Valentine and Jimmy Hart, holding a microphone. Ventura said that the Mouth Of The South was 0-for-1 so far tonight, but Jimmy promised that would change when Valentine gets his hands on Roddy Piper. Ventura inquired whether Jimmy had made any business deals with the Million Dollar Man as it related to Piper, but all the Mouth would reveal was that there was indeed a price on the Scotsman's head. Greg added that he's hated Hot Rod for as long as he could remember and that tonight he would finally "drop the Hammer" on the Rowdy One. (72%)

Greg "The Hammer" Valentine vs. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper

Jimmy Hart accompanied the Hammer, as the announcers brought up Dino Bravo's upset loss to the Texas Twister earlier, pointing out how embarrassed the Mouth Of The South looked. Once Piper hit the ring, the two veterans stared each other down while Tenay alluded to their past history (including a bloody, brutal Dog Collar Match in the NWA nearly 10 years ago) without mentioning anything specific. This was a basic slugfest, with both Piper and Valentine pulling out some heavy-duty punches and kicks, along with more underhanded tactics such as eye gouges and facerakes. The brawl also went out to ringside, where Valentine took control after some distraction from the Mouth and began working over Piper's leg in preparation for the Hartbreaker. However, in the ring, Hot Rod mounted a comeback, countering the Hartbreaker with an inside cradle for a near-fall. A few moments later, Piper clamped the Sleeperhold on the Hammer, who finally succumbed and let his arm drop three times, giving the victory to the Scotsman. (73%)

After the match, Roddy Piper was still hobbling around celebrating his big win, when Ted DiBiase came rushing down the aisle, carrying his Million Dollar Belt. Hot Rod saw him coming though, and ducked the belt shot, firing back with a rapid-fire succession of lefts and rights before winding up and flooring the Million Dollar Man with a big-time roundhouse right. DiBiase fell through the ropes out to the floor and began to retreat, but realized that he had left his self-made "championship" belt in the ring, where Piper was now holding it and taunting him. DiBiase had a tantrum at ringside and vowed to take back his belt, before heading back to the locker room. (79%)

"Macho Man" Randy Savage vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat

Tenay ran down the history shared by these two men and all of their individual accomplishments, while Albert remarked that they are two of the greatest and most well-conditioned athletes he has seen in his career. This was a hot match-up that had the fans hooked from bell to bell, showcasing the incredible talents of both superstars, although they still seemed to be holding something back, possibly for a future rematch. The action spilled to the floor, where Savage gained the upper hand, mauling his babyface opponent. This led to an extended heat sequence featuring the Macho Man punishing the Dragon, who did what he does better than almost anybody: selling the offense to the point that the crowd actually fears for his safety, but kept kicking out of Savage's pinfall attempts. Finally, Savage went to the top turnbuckle and dove off with the Flying Elbowdrop, but Steamboat rolled out of the way and made his big comeback, unleashing chop after chop across Savage's chest and neck area. He followed those up with several other impressive maneuvers for a couple of near-falls, before going up top himself and launching with the Flying Bodypress, which Savage rolled through and almost got the 1-2-3 with a handful of tights. The bout continued, with Steamboat catching Savage in a cool double-chicken-wing bridging suplex, but they were too close to the ropes. After a few more minutes, Mr. Perfect strolled down to ringside as Steamboat climbed to the top again. While Savage held referee Earl Hebner close to him, Perfect jumped up on the apron and shoved the Dragon off the turnbuckle crashing to the canvas. The WWF Intercontinental Champion then stood back with a smirk on his face as the Macho Man went to the top and came off with the Flying Elbowdrop on the Dragon to secure the three-count. Afterwards, Perfect joined Savage in ruthlessly stomping and kicking the downed Dragon, as Tenay pointed out that Steamboat eliminated Perfect in the Royal Rumble and that this was a form of payback. Suddenly, WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior raced out, swinging his title belt, to clear the heels out of the ring. Savage and Perfect walked off together as Warrior checked on Steamboat, while Albert and Tenay closed the show, hyping that "the Battle Lines have been drawn!" (87%)

Overall: 77%

Rating: 6.28

Attendance: 6,003

Ticket Sales: $360,180

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan opened the show, welcoming viewers to prime-time on the FOX Network, before introducing the lineup for this week's program including Tito Santana, The Mountie, and the Rockers in action, the Orient Express facing the Conquistadors, "The Brother Love Show" with special guest Jerry Lawler, and Bret Hart battling Nasty Boy Jerry Saggs in the main event. They began to bicker over the Saggs/Hit Man match until some music interrupted them.

The Mountie came down the aisle along with Jimmy Hart as his new "I'm The Mountie" theme song blared throughout the arena. The Mouth Of The South passed a microphone to the Canadian once they were in the ring. Mountie asked the "stupid American" to all shut up so that they could hear him sing, so they booed a bit louder. Mountie invited Jimmy to join him, and they sang the first verse of the new song until suddenly the Mountie ran over and attacked his unsuspecting opponent. (79%)

The Mountie vs. Al Perez

Jimmy Hart hopped out to ringside as the Mountie bombarded Perez in the corner with punches, forearms, and kneelifts to the midsection. The Mountie continued the punishment, although Perez made a brief comeback with a nice dropkick, but the Canadian subdued him with the Carotid Control Technique for the submission victory. Afterwards, the Mountie read the unconscious Perez his rights and handcuffed him to the ring ropes before leaving with the Mouth Of The South. (64%)

Sean Mooney interviewed Mr. Fuji and the Orient Express in the locker room as they were getting ready for their match against the Conquistadors. Fuji claimed that Sato & Kato were two of the most feared and lethal assassins in all of Japan, and they would demonstrate their skill and efficiency against the Conquistadors tonight just as they would against any other "foolish American" in the WWF, including Jim Duggan. (65%)

The Orient Express (Kato & Sato) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

Mr. Fuji waddled out with his Orient Express, who engaged in a solid (but unfortunately, rather heatless) match-up with the two masked men. Heenan said that this match must be Jake Roberts' worst nightmare, as three of the four competitors wear masks. This one came to an end when Sato covered #1 following the Double Thrust Kick from he and Kato. (59%)

After a commercial break, Brother Love was on the set of "The Brother Love Show", crooning his usual "AHHHHHHH LOOOOOOOOVE YEWWWWWWWW!" He said that his guest this week was a monarch who had "plenty of LOOOOVE" for his "subjects", so he asked all of the fans to get on their feet and show respect as he introduced "The King" Jerry Lawler. Love dropped to one knee and kissed the ring on the King's hand as the crowd booed. Lawler, whom Love called "Brother King", claimed to be a long-time fan of "The Brother Love Show" and said it was an honor to finally be a guest. Love questioned Lawler on his goals now that he is in the WWF, and the King told him it was simple: he came to conquer, just as he has done all across the globe. Lawler named superstars like Hulk Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, Roddy Piper, and the Legion Of Doom as examples of the top names he was planning to knock off on his way to asserting his crown and throne as the "one true King of Professional Wrestling". Love kissed up, saying that Lawler is already the King as far as the "Ministry Of Love" was concerned. The King thanked the preacher and they shook hands as the crowd booed heartily. (72%)

The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty) vs. Barry Orton & The Black Phantom

Monsoon put the Rockers over for their tremendous effort in the Tag Team Title match on Prime Time Wrestling, adding that they deserve another shot in the near-future. The usual "face squash" that allowed the Masters Of Motion to showcase their innovative double-team maneuvers, while also selling for their opponents. It ended when Jannetty pinned the masked Phantom after the Double Flying Fistdrop from he and Michaels. (69%)

There was a special report from backstage, where Sean Mooney was standing by a fallen "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan, who was laid out on the floor. Mooney claimed that nobody had seen who committed the evil deed, but Mr. Fuji and the Orient Express could be seen in the background exiting the arena, with grins on their faces. (76%)

Tito Santana vs. Brooklyn Brawler

The designated match that gives the commentators an opportunity to talk about everything except what is going on in the ring, Monsoon and Heenan discussed the attack on Jim Duggan, Hulk Hogan's interview on Saturday Night's Main Event, Warrior/Savage, Steamboat/Perfect, Paul Ellering's upcoming interview on Prime Time Wrestling this Monday, and the disappearance of Jimmy Snuka. Finally, Santana put the Brawler away with the Flying Forearm. (60%)

A promo aired for a match between Bob Backlund and the Honky Tonk Man next week on WWF Superstars, featuring comments from both competitors. It also showed Honky pulling down the top rope to eliminate Backlund from the Royal Rumble, and ended with a split-screen of the two faces. (75%)

Cameras backstage showed Jimmy Hart huddling with the Nasty Boys in the locker room, presumably concocting some type of scheme. (72%)

Bret "Hit Man" Hart vs. Jerry Saggs

The co-WWF Tag Team Champion came out alone, while Saggs had Jimmy Hart with him, but Brian Knobbs was nowhere to be found. Saggs took an early lead with his superior size and strength, but the Hit Man responded with his speed and finesse, taking the larger man off his feet several times. They also brawled to the outside, where the Mouth Of The South tried to interfere, but the Hit Man saw it coming and knocked the Mouth down with a hard right hand. Saggs took this opening to blindside Bret and continue the punishment in the ring. Around this time, Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart appeared in the aisle, drawing a nice pop from the crowd, as Monsoon assumed he was there to prevent any interference. Saggs seemed distracted by the unexpected visit from the Anvil, giving Bret the chance to mount a comeback, using his usual offense to put down the Nasty Boy. Bret grabbed the legs for some sort of leglock, but Jimmy Hart jumped up on the apron, drawing the Hit Man's attention. Hit Man and referee Tim White went over to Jimmy, while Neidhart marched down to ringside where the skinny manager was on the apron. With everybody distracted, Knobbs came charging out of the audience and picked up the Mouth's strategically-placed megaphone, before sliding into the ring and clobbering Bret with the weapon from behind. Knobbs quickly bailed out as Saggs covered Bret for the 1-2-3 when the ref returned to the action. Saggs rolled out of the ring, joining Knobbs and Jimmy at ringside as the Anvil stood over the dazed Hit Man, threatening the Nasty Boys. (79%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan finished this week's show with more discussion on the top storylines, hyping that "Battle Lines have been drawn" as it relates to Ultimate Warrior, Ricky Steamboat, Randy Savage, and Mr. Perfect.

Overall: 70%

Rating: 5.34

Attendance: 6,009

Ticket Sales: $360,540

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura opened this week's broadcast live from ringside, announcing tonight's Intercontinental Championship main event featuring the Dynamite Kid challenging Mr. Perfect, plus Dusty Rhodes battling Hercules, Legion Of Doom against the Conquistadors, Kevin Von Erich facing The Mountie, Bob Backlund in action, and a special interview with Paul Ellering.

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase kicked things off by coming out to the ring and grabbing the microphone from Howard Finkel. DiBiase ranted about "Rowdy" Roddy Piper stealing his Million Dollar Championship belt on Saturday Night's Main Event, calling him a dirty thief "just like the rest of Scotland". After a couple of minutes, DiBiase questioned Hot Rod's guts and challenged him to come out to the ring, which Piper did, to a great pop. DiBiase demanded to know where his Million Dollar belt was, and Piper claimed that he was wearing it under his kilt, daring the Million Dollar Man to reach up there and get it himself. They continued trading insults until the "Million Dollar Lackey", Virgil, emerged from underneath the ring and tried to blindside Piper, who dodged out of the way and sent Virgil crashing into DiBiase. Hot Rod took off, shaking his head in disappointment at Virgil before flashing the Million Dollar belt under his kilt. DiBiase shoved Virgil, blaming him for "screwing up again", before ordering him to hold the ropes open for him. Virgil did so, biting his lip, and they left together, Virgil following several paces behind the Million Dollar Man. (82%)

Bob Backlund vs. Iron Mike Sharpe

The 40-year-old Backlund was in peak form, but that didn't stop Ventura from mercilessly ridiculing him. McMahon said it was great to see the former WWF Champion back in action, and hyped his match with the Honky Tonk Man this weekend on Superstars. Backlund wore out his fellow ring veteran here, finishing Sharpe with an atomic drop followed immediately by a lateral guillotine for the 1-2-3. (67%)

Back in the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon praised Bob Backlund's impressive conditioning, while Bobby "The Brain" Heenan insulted the former WWF Champion. Monsoon then announced that their next guest, Greg "The Hammer" Valentine, would be challenging the reigning WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event, before introducing the Hammer himself, along with Jimmy Hart. The Brain congratulated the Mouth Of The South for acquiring the title shot and asked how he did it. Jimmy told him that WWF President Andre The Giant owed him, because Jimmy was able to fill the two vacant spots in the 30-man Royal Rumble, so now he has a series of title shots lined up for his men, if the Hammer fails. Valentine told Jimmy that he wouldn't have to worry about that, because he was going to take full advantage of the opportunity and get the job done. Valentine promised to bring the big belt home to the "First Family", which is apparently the name of the Mouth's stable. Heenan wished them luck before they left. (78%)

The Mountie vs. "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich

McMahon was relieved that Jimmy Hart was in the studio with Greg Valentine, because that meant he wouldn't be in the arena with the Mountie. However, the Mountie did not come out alone; instead, he was seconded by Dino Bravo, who waved the Canadian flag. The commentators brought up the Texas Twister's upset victory over Bravo on Saturday Night's Main Event and suggested that's why Bravo was out there. This was a solid contest that went back and forth, with the fans seeming to gain more respect for the Twister, who scored a few near-falls. Eventually, Von Erich seemed poised to put the Mountie away, signaling for the Tornado Punch, but when Von Erich ran into the ropes, Bravo whacked him across the back with the flagpole. Von Erich staggered towards the Mountie, who wrapped him up in a small package to pick up the win. Afterwards, Bravo joined his fellow Canadian in stomping and kicking the second-generation superstar, until the Big Boss Man raced out and chased the heels off, swinging his nightstick. (69%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan introduced a "Face Off", bringing both "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan and Mr. Fuji into the room, sitting on opposite ends of the desk. Monsoon brought up the backstage attack on Duggan on Superstars this past weekend, asking Hacksaw himself if he had seen the culprits. Before he could answer, Fuji interrupted, happily confessing that it was the Orient Express, acting on his orders. Fuji said that Kato & Sato were lethal assassins, and that if they didn't want to get caught, they wouldn't have been seen in the background. Fuji laughed at "Duggan-San", who tried to reach across the table and grab the portly Japanese manager, but was prevented from doing so by Gorilla. Duggan was understandably upset, and threw out a challenge for a Handicap Match this weekend on Superstars against both Sato & Kato. Fuji chuckled some more before accepting the offer on behalf of his team, warning Hacksaw that this was "worse mistake of your life, Duggan-San." Duggan bellowed some defense, then began chanting "U-S-A, U-S-A" as Heenan covered his ears and Fuji walked out of the studio. (67%)

Hercules vs. "American Dream" Dusty Rhodes

Slick accompanied the Mighty One, while the American Dream walked out alone, as a camera showed Dustin Rhodes watching anxiously on a monitor in the locker room. This one turned out to be a good old-school contest, with Hercules dishing out most of the punishment on Dusty, who can still sell despite his advanced age and diminishing skills. Herc eventually missed a charging clothesline in the corner, giving Dusty the opportunity to stage a comeback as the crowd cheered him on. After Rhodes downed Hercules with a running Bionic Elbow, Slick predictably hopped up on the apron, which drew Dustin Rhodes out to ringside. Dustin yanked the Doctor Of Style off the apron, and while referee Mark Johnson was busy trying to separate the two on the floor, Paul Roma came sprinting out, grabbing Herc's steel chain from the corner before entering the ring. Romeo charged with the chain wrapped around his fist, but Dusty ducked and Roma accidentally nailed Hercules, who was just getting up behind the Dream. Dusty quickly knocked Roma out of the ring with the Bionic Elbow before rebounding off the ropes and landing on Herc with the Polka Dot Drop elbowdrop, hooking the leg for the three-count. The Rhodes Family left while Power & Glory licked their wounds along with Slick. (73%)

Back in the studio, Bobby Heenan called the Rhodes Family a pack of cheaters, "and that includes Old Lady Rhodes!" Gorilla Monsoon basically ignored the Brain as he welcomed Paul Ellering and the Powers Of Pain to the show. Warlord & Barbarian wore their wrestling tights along with tank tops and the new and improved, more demonic facepaint. Precious Paul began by professing his admiration, "from manager to manager", for Heenan, who brought up the business deal that saw Ellering purchase the Barbarian's contract from the Brain. Heenan wished Barbarian luck and said it was great managing him, but was met with only a cold stare from the facepainted warriors. Monsoon asked Ellering for his side of the story in response to the Legion Of Doom last week, which Ellering was prepared to provide. Ellering claimed that before he met them, Hawk & Animal were two "talentless, brainless muscleheads", whom he had to mold for months before they were ready for the ring. He said he turned them from "punk street kids wearing bad mascara" into two of the most ruthless, merciless, brutal killing machines that the wrestling world had ever seen, and how did they repay him? Once they became big stars, they cut him out, which forced him to sell his expensive home and relocate to a much less desirable area. Since that day, Ellering said he plotted the demise of the LOD, and that when he was able to acquire the contracts of the Barbarian and the Warlord (using the money he made in the stock market over the years), the final pieces of the puzzle fell into place. Precious Paul said that with the Powers Of Pain, the "raw materials" were much greater than with the Legion Of Doom, and thus would result in a much more impressive force as they gain experience. Monsoon asked Paul about Hawk's comment that the POP are "soulless", making the manager laugh out loud. Ellering said that that was precisely the reason that he selected Barbarian & Warlord, because they are remorseless and feel no emotions but the need to inflict pain and torture upon all who oppose them, and won't stop until they are the last ones drawing breath. Ellering predicted that it would indeed be the "End Of Days" for the Legion Of Doom when they meet the Powers Of Pain, repeating his vow that since he "made" the LOD, he could "break" them. (79%)

Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

The LOD were all business when they marched out, as the commentators discussed Paul Ellering's interview. Ventura believed Precious Paul, while McMahon suggested that it was just "sour grapes". As for the match, the masked men surprisingly got in some offense, which Ventura pointed to as proof of Ellering's claims that the LOD had "gone soft", reminding us that the Powers Of Pain had no problem vanquishing the Conquistadors last week. The LOD then took over and finished off their opponents when Hawk covered #1 following the Doomsday Device. Afterwards, an angry Animal dragged #2 into the ring, putting him away with the Doomsday Device as well. (71%)

A camera near the parking lot showed a red-faced Ted DiBiase violently berating Virgil as the servant escorted him out to his limousine. The Million Dollar Man kept up the constant verbal abuse even as he got into his limo and a stone-faced Virgil slammed the door before going around and getting in the driver's seat. The limo drove off with the muffled yelling still audible as McMahon lamented DiBiase's treatment of his loyal lackey. (82%)

Elsewhere in the locker room, Davey Boy Smith wished Dynamite Kid luck as he was preparing for his Intercontinental Title shot at Mr. Perfect. Dynamite looked to be in tremendous shape and embraced his British Bulldogs tag team partner before heading out. (79%)

WWF Intercontinental Title Match: Mr. Perfect [champion] vs. Dynamite Kid

The great, athletic match-up you would expect from this pairing, considered two of the best workers ever in the WWF, and this was a perfect example. They exchanged stiff chops and other maneuvers with superb back-and-forth high-impact action, as Perfect sold quite a bit to put Dynamite over as a legitimate singles threat. Several near-falls brought the fans to their feet, with a title change being teased on a few occasions. Unfortunately, Demolition appeared mid-match, slowly stalking down the aisle as Perfect ducked a high cross-body from the Kid, who tumbled out over the top rope to the floor at the feet of Smash & Crush. While Perfect feigned injury to distract referee Earl Hebner, Demolition pounced on Dynamite, assaulting him with double-axhandles, stomps, and kicks before rolling him back into the squared circle, where the Intercontinental Champion trapped the Kid in the Perfectplex for the winning pinfall. Demolition joined Perfect in beating down Dynamite afterwards, until Davey Boy Smith and Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat ran out to make the save. Smash, Crush, & Perfect left ringside, and Steamboat & Smith checked on Dynamite, as McMahon and Ventura ended the show. (85%)

Overall: 76%

Rating: 5.88

Attendance: 6,049

Ticket Sales: $362,940

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay kicked off the network broadcast from the booth high above the crowd, announcing tonight's star-studded lineup: Big Boss Man facing Dino Bravo, Demolition meeting Tito Santana & Koko B. Ware, the Conquistadors taking on the Rockers, the Orient Express in action, and the main event of the Ultimate Warrior defending the WWF Championship against Greg Valentine.

A pre-recorded video segment featuring WWF President Andre The Giant aired first. The 7'4" President announced that there would be a new "affordable" pay-per-view taking place on Sunday, February 24, called WWF Battle Lines, which will be headlined by a Steel Cage Match between Randy Savage and Ricky Steamboat. Andre said that the 15-foot-high solid steel cage is designed to prevent the interference that we saw in the Dragon/Macho Man match-up on last week's Saturday Night's Main Event. He added that more matches would be announced for the card over the next couple of weeks and invited WWF fans to join us LIVE for WWF Battle Lines! (85%)

The Orient Express (Sato & Kato) vs. Scott Taylor & Rob Zakowski

Albert and Tenay discussed President Andre's announcement regarding WWF Battle Lines and the Steamboat/Savage Steel Cage Match, as a smiling Mr. Fuji accompanied his Orient Express to the ring. A competitive squash, during which the commentators hyped the Express' handicap match against Jim Duggan tomorrow on Superstars, calling them "devious" and "underhanded" for their sneak attack on Hacksaw last week. Kato covered Zakowski following the Double Thrust Kick from he and Sato. (61%)

Mean Gene Okerlund appeared at ringside to interview the Orient Express and Mr. Fuji, who tried once again to use his broken English to get Sato & Kato over as his own personal assassins. Fuji promised to kill the spirit of the United States by taking out Jim Duggan on Superstars. (72%)

Backstage cameras showed the Big Boss Man walking down the hall, twirling his nightstick, as he was on his way out for his match...NEXT! (76%)

Dino Bravo vs. Big Boss Man

Tenay explained that Jimmy Hart was not accompanying the Canadian Strongman because he was busy preparing Greg Valentine for his WWF Title shot later; instead, Bravo was seconded by The Mountie, who carried the Canadian flag. Boss Man came out alone, and they engaged in a spirited slugfest featuring lots of punching and power moves. Eventually, an Irish-whip was reversed and Boss Man caught Bravo with a hard-hitting spinebuster. The big Georgian went to run into the ropes but stopped just before the Mountie could hit him with the flagpole and grabbed the flag, pulling Mountie up onto the apron, choking the corrupt law enforcer. Meanwhile, Bravo got to his feet and hammered Boss Man with a forearm across the shoulderblades, then scooped him up and planted him with the Side Suplex to pick up the victory. Afterwards, the Mountie climbed in and began whacking Boss Man with the flagpole as Bravo stomped his head, until Kevin Von Erich sprinted out and chased the Canadians away. The commentators explained that the Texas Twister was repaying the Boss Man's favor from Prime Time Wrestling last Monday. (75%)

The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

This was an athletic match-up, although fans still seemed confused over the "tweener" Conquistadors. Tenay and Albert put the Rockers over as potential top contenders, bringing up the very competitive Tag Team Title bout from almost two weeks ago on Prime Time. They also hyped Shawn & Marty as the guests on "The Brother Love Show" this week on Superstars. In the end, Jannetty pinned #2 after the Double Flying Fistdrop. (72%)

Up next was a promo hyping next week's main event for Saturday Night's Main Event, pitting "Macho Man" Randy Savage against "American Dream" Dusty Rhodes. The video featured highlights of their feud throughout 1989-90, as well as clips of them slugging it out in the Royal Rumble this year, including Savage and Ted DiBiase eliminating Rhodes from the match. It finished with brief soundbites from both the Dream and the Macho Man regarding next week's match-up. (85%)

Tito Santana & Koko B. Ware vs. Demolition (Smash & Crush)

The commentators discussed next week's Dusty Rhodes/Randy Savage main event, as well as Demolition's on-going feud with the British Bulldogs. This was a solid match, with the fans actually getting behind the face squad, cheering them on even when Smash & Crush beat them down with double-axhandles. Koko & Tito made a comeback, but unfortunately it ended when Crush covered the Bird Man following the Decapitation Elbow. (68%)

A video hyped the "return" of "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka next week on Saturday Night's Main Event. The promo showed clips of the Superfly throughout his career, and noted that he hasn't been seen since the Undertaker defeated him and carried him away in a bodybag at the Royal Rumble. (70%)

Backstage, Jimmy Hart was readying Greg Valentine for his WWF Title shot at the Ultimate Warrior, telling the Hammer that he "deserves" to be the WWF Champion after all of his hard work during his career. The Hammer looked focused and intense, with a nasty sneer on his grizzled face as the Mouth Of The South kept jabbering. (68%)

WWF Championship Match: Ultimate Warrior [champion] vs. Greg "The Hammer" Valentine

Jimmy Hart escorted the Hammer down to the ring, as Tenay and Albert did a fairly effective job of putting the former Intercontinental and Tag Team Champion over as a threat. The Warrior came charging out as usual and kicked off the match by mowing down Valentine with a series of massive clotheslines. After a couple of minutes, the Mouth Of The South interfered, allowing Valentine to take control, punishing the Warrior with his methodical, deliberate offense including Hammer elbowsmashes. Tenay pointed out that Valentine could join the elite "Triple Crown Club" if he can capture the WWF Title, as the grizzled veteran worked over the Warrior's leg, eventually locking him in the Hartbreaker. With the fans rallying behind him, Warrior began shaking and looking up at his "gods", before reversing the figure-four and using his immense leg strength to kick Valentine off. Warrior got up and went through his usual routine, finishing off Valentine with the Gorilla Press followed by the big splash for the 1-2-3. Albert and Tenay signed off, hyping next week's show as the WWF Champion celebrated his successful title defense. (77%)

Overall: 73%

Rating: 6.26

Attendance: 6,013

Ticket Sales: $360,780

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan introduced this week's program, including the handicap match pitting Jim Duggan against the Orient Express, Honky Tonk Man facing Bob Backlund, the Rockers on "The Brother Love Show", as well as Ricky Steamboat, the Hart Foundation, and the Million Dollar Team in action.

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase & Virgil vs. Duane Gill & Barry Hardy

Monsoon said that the Million Dollar Man should be ashamed of the way that he treated Virgil on Prime Time Wrestling, while Heenan responded that Virgil deserved it for messing up. DiBiase was still angry with his long-time bodyguard, forcing him to wrestle the entire match while DiBiase stood on the apron and heaped on the verbal abuse. Virgil almost lost a couple of times, but came back and put Hardy down with a cobra clutch slam. When he went for the pin, DiBiase yelled at him, ordering Virgil to tag him in. After some hesitation, Virgil tagged his boss in and stood by, his eyes fixed on Gill across the ring as DiBiase trapped Hardy in the Million Dollar Dream to pick up the win. Afterwards, DiBiase continued to berate his loyal lackey all the way up the aisle. (59%)

As Ted DiBiase & Virgil got closer to the curtain, Sean Mooney popped out to interview the Million Dollar Team, first asking Virgil how he felt about the way his boss was treating him. The Million Dollar Man interrupted before Virgil even attempted to open his mouth, telling Mooney that his servant had no comment, as usual. DiBiase ranted about Roddy Piper stealing his Million Dollar belt, promising to get it back "as long as SOMEBODY doesn't screw it up again", while glaring at Virgil. DiBiase pushed Virgil, ordering him to hold open the curtains as they headed back to the locker room. (80%)

After a commercial break, Mean Gene Okerlund was backstage with WWF Tag Team Champions The Hart Foundation, who put over the Rockers for their tenacious effort in the championship match almost two weeks ago. They promised to give the Rockers another title shot in the future, and also said that they looked forward to getting their hands on the Nasty Boys again to settle the score. (71%)

Non-Title Match: The Hart Foundation (Bret "Hit Man" Hart & Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart) vs. Bob Bradley & Kevin Krueger

A basic squash, as the commentators discussed the Rockers' appearance on "The Brother Love Show" later, as well as the WWF Tag Team Champions' non-title match with the Nasty Boys at the Royal Rumble, with Heenan saying that the Harts got what they deserved for cheating and that the Nastys should be granted a title shot immediately. The Anvil covered Bradley following the Hart Attack. (64%)

A vignette aired, featuring "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich at home on his ranch, showing some of his day-to-day activities when he's not in the ring. It briefly featured his father, Fritz Von Erich, and his pets, as well as his recuperating brother, "Texas Tornado" Kerry Von Erich, who was laid up with his knee injury but wished Kevin the best of luck in the WWF during his absence. (55%)

The music of the Honky Tonk Man cranked up in the arena, as the self-proclaimed "Greatest Intercontinental Champion Of All Time" made his way out alone, wearing a flashy silver-and-gold jumpsuit and carrying his guitar. Honky took the microphone and said that he knew all the fans were glad to be able to see the Honky Tonk Man sing his song, play his guitar, and do his dance all over the WWF again. He claimed that his long-time manager and confidant, Jimmy Hart, was too busy with his First Family to manage the career of a "mega-star" like Honky, so with the blessing of the Mouth Of The South, Honky had found a new business manager. He introduced us to... Colonel Robert Fuller! The tall, lanky USWA star strutted out in a white suit, bolo tie, and cowboy hat on top of his short wavy bleached-blond hair, a wide Southern grin on his face. The Colonel embraced Honky and raised his arm as they awaited Bob Backlund. (78%)

Honky Tonk Man vs. Bob Backlund

The commentators explained that this match-up came about as a result of the Royal Rumble, where Honky eliminated Backlund. For most of the match, Colonel Robert Fuller did not interfere, instead just standing at ringside and encouraging Honky Tonk Man verbally. This was a very entertaining contrast of styles, with Backlund disorienting Honky with his amateur holds and maneuvers, while the Elvis impersonator slowed things down by stalling and running away from the former WWF Champion. In the end, Backlund was chasing Honky around ringside; Honky went around a corner and slid into the ring, but when Backlund came around the corner, the Colonel surprised him with a vicious clothesline that left the All American Boy momentarily motionless. Fuller followed up with some nasty stomps while Honky distracted referee Tim White, then "helped" Backlund back into the ring. Backlund staggered to his feet and fell victim to the Shake, Rattle, & Roll neckbreaker from Honky Tonk, who then hooked the leg for the three-count. Honky quickly bailed out and took off with the Colonel, laughing as they left. (77%)

Following a commercial break, Brother Love was bathed in red spotlights on the set of "The Brother Love Show", professing his "LOOOVE" for his "brothers and sisters" in the audience. He claimed that a lot of the teenage girls in the crowd did not have "LOOOOVE", but instead lust in their hearts for his guests this week, the Rockers. Marty Jannetty & Shawn Michaels walked out to a nice pop, looking skeptically at the red-faced preacher. Love congratulated the Rockers on their performance against the Hart Foundation, suggesting that the other tag teams might try to knock them off now as they vie for title shots. Shawn & Marty started to talk, but Love pulled the microphone away and said that he "forgot" to introduce his other guest who had something to say to the Rockers, then brought out Jimmy Hart. The Mouth Of The South explained that he was sick to death of hearing about "Rockers this, Rockers that" and challenged the Masters Of Motion to take on his Nasty Boys to determine the next contenders to the WWF Tag Team Championship. Michaels & Jannetty told Hart that they'd meet Knobbs & Saggs anytime, so the Mouth replied, "how about...now?" Suddenly, the Nasty Boys appeared and blindsided the Rockers, bludgeoning them down with a motorcycle helmet and Jimmy's megaphone as Hart and Love encouraged them. Finally, the Nastys relented and exited with the Mouth, leaving the Rockers laid out on the stage. (72%)

Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. Brooklyn Brawler

Monsoon and Heenan argued over the Nasty Boys' attack on the Rockers, before moving on to talk about the upcoming WWF Battle Lines PPV and the Dragon's Steel Cage Match with Randy Savage. This was a semi-competitive squash with the Brawler getting in some offense, but Steamboat put him away with the Flying Bodypress, now called the "Reign Of Fire". (68%)

Handicap Match: "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan vs. The Orient Express (Kato & Sato)

Duggan marched out first, carrying his trusty 2x4 and waving the American flag, while the devious Mr. Fuji escorted his Orient Express, who looked slightly overconfident. This Handicap Match was contested under tag rules, although Sato & Kato often took advantage of the five-second rule, as well as distraction from Fuji, to get in their double-teams. Hacksaw took a lot of punishment, but mounted a comeback as the fans chanted "USA" to motivate him. He used big closed fists to knock the Express around, and floored them with a series of double-clotheslines. After a pair of bodyslams, Duggan got in the Three Point Stance position, waiting for Kato & Sato to rise. However, Fuji hooked Duggan's foot with his cane, drawing his attention. Duggan reached for the sneaky Japanese manager, but was stopped by referee Joey Marella. When Hacksaw turned back to his opponents, they nailed him with a picture-perfect Double Thrust Kick, after which Sato made the winning pinfall. (65%)

After the match, the Orient Express continued to assault the dazed "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan with kicks and chops as Mr. Fuji egged them on. The crowd booed the Japanese tag team, until finally Jake "The Snake" Roberts sprinted out, unleashing lefts and rights on both Sato & Kato, before clotheslining Sato over the top rope. Jake grabbed hold of Kato and tried to rip his mask off, but he was able to escape. The Express retreated with Fuji while Roberts stood over Duggan. Meanwhile, Monsoon and Heenan mentioned WWF Battle Lines again before signing off. (69%)

Overall: 69%

Rating: 5.12

Attendance: 6,050

Ticket Sales: $363,000

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura opened the show live from ringside, hyping tonight's lineup featuring the Undertaker and Jake Roberts in action, the Conquistadors taking on Dino Bravo & The Mountie, Dynamite Kid meeting Crush, a rematch pitting the Legion Of Doom against Power & Glory, and a special interview with Randy Savage.

Mean Gene Okerlund conducted a backstage interview with Jake "The Snake" Roberts, who had stern words for Mr. Fuji and the Orient Express. He went off on a tangent about masked men, claiming to have seen a lot of them lately and vowing to take out Kato, whom he called a "spineless coward" for hiding behind a mask. (75%)

Jake "The Snake" Roberts vs. Iron Mike Sharpe

The commentators talked about the possibility of Roberts & Jim Duggan facing the Orient Express in a tag team match at WWF Battle Lines, as well as Jake's recent obsession with masked men, during this basic squash. It ended when the Snake put Iron Mike away with the short-arm clothesline, followed by the DDT. Afterwards, Jake unleashed his python Damian on the unconscious Sharpe, while still looking around in a paranoid fashion. (66%)

In the Prime Time studio, Bobby "The Brain" Heenan suggested that Damian should be banned from ringside, while Gorilla Monsoon announced that the match for WWF Battle Lines had indeed been signed between the Orient Express and Jake Roberts & Jim Duggan. After some jokes from the Brain, Gorilla introduced their first guests, the Honky Tonk Man and Colonel Robert Lee Fuller, dressed in their "finest" attire. The Colonel proclaimed himself the "Greatest Promoter Of All Time", and said it was a great honor to now be managing the career of the "Greatest Intercontinental Champion Of All Time" in the WWF. Monsoon asked if it was a bad break-up between Honky Tonk and Jimmy Hart, but Honky responded that it was a mutual agreement that the Mouth Of The South was just too busy with the rest of his First Family to give the proper time and attention that a "mega-star" like Honky needs and deserves, so he decided he needed to put together his own "Memphis Mafia". Honky claimed that Colonel Fuller was just the man for the job, and that he would take Honky higher than he's ever been, both in the WWF and in all other business aspects. The Colonel said the marketing campaign he is preparing for Honky will surpass even that of Hulkamania, and will indeed supercede the WWF itself. Fuller warned any of Honky's future opponents not to try attacking him at ringside, because he has the brawn to back up his brains, as he proved when Bob Backlund "maliciously molested" him on Superstars. Monsoon debunked this claim, but said that Fuller would get the opportunity to truly prove himself when he meets Backlund one-on-one at the WWF Battle Lines PPV. The Colonel seemed confident, as he and Honky promised that they would soon rocket straight to the top of the WWF charts. (82%)

The Undertaker vs. Al Perez

Brother Love accompanied his dark disciple as usual, a wide smile plastered across his red face, while McMahon mentioned that wherever he's been over the last couple of weeks, "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka will apparently be returning to the ring this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. Total squash here, as the Pale Destroyer buried Perez with the Tombstone after only a couple of minutes. Afterwards, the Undertaker dropped a handful of dirt on the motionless Perez while Love performed the last rites. (68%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed The Mountie, Dino Bravo, and Jimmy Hart, who announced that they would be meeting the Big Boss Man & Kevin Von Erich in a tag team match at WWF Battle Lines. The Mouth Of The South informed Mean Gene that the Mountie & Bravo were a duo to be feared, and that American fans better learn to respect "Les Canadiens", or they would beat some respect into them. (81%)

Les Canadiens (Dino Bravo & The Mountie) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

Jimmy Hart and his irritating megaphone escorted Les Canadiens to ringside, the Mouth Of The South also waving the Canadian flag. This was a solid match-up, during which the commentators discussed the lineup forming for WWF Battle Lines, including the Canadiens/Boss Man-Von Erich, Orient Express/Snake-Hacksaw, and Bob Backlund/Colonel Fuller bouts. The masked Conquistadors got in some crisp offense, but they eventually lost when the Mountie put #2 out with the Carotid Control Technique following the Side Suplex from Bravo. (67%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan ran down the card for WWF Battle Lines, adding a "Number One Contenders" match pitting the Nasty Boys against the Rockers, winners to meet the WWF Tag Team Champions in April at WrestleMania VII. They discussed the Steel Cage main event between Randy Savage and Ricky Steamboat, before introducing the Macho Man himself as their guest. The former WWF Champion came in and sat down, immediately promising to take the WWF Title from the Ultimate Warrior or whomever is the champion by WrestleMania. Gorilla reminded him that this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event, he will go head-to-head with his old nemesis, Dusty Rhodes, whom he lost to at last year's WrestleMania VI. Savage explained that those were different circumstances, but that this time it would be one-on-one and he would rip through the American Dream. Monsoon said that after that, Savage still has to deal with the Dragon within the confines of the 15-foot-high solid steel cage at WWF Battle Lines. The Macho Man said he's already beaten the Dragon, but this time he'll defeat him so soundly that nobody will be able to blame the outcome on outside interference. After that, he claimed that he'd be on his own personal "March To WrestleMania", the path that would lead to his second reign as the WWF Heavyweight Champion of the World, "OOOHHHH YEEEAHHHHH!" (88%)

Cameras backstage showed Crush, decked out in the trademark fearsome Demolition leather-and-studs entrance attire complete with mask, marching down the hallway, on his way out for his match...NEXT! (67%)

Crush vs. Dynamite Kid

Both men came out alone, as McMahon pointed out that Demolition interfered in the Dynamite Kid's match with Mr. Perfect last week, costing him his shot at the WWF Intercontinental Championship. Dynamite started off fast and furious, unleashing his anger and frustration on the much larger Crush, chopping and stomping him back into a corner at the outset. The big man took control a bit later, using his superior size and strength to overwhelm the British Bulldog, coming close to the victory on a few occasions. Dynamite countered the power with his speed and agility, mounting the comeback and looking ready to put Crush away following a missile dropkick from the top turnbuckle. Smash soon appeared at ringside and climbed up on the apron, distracting the Kid. However, when Crush charged from behind, Dynamite dodged the attack and sent the two Demolition members crashing into each other, knocking Smash down to the floor. Dynamite quickly hopped up on Crush's shoulders and wrapped him up in a victory roll for the 1-2-3. Afterwards, Smash slid into the ring and assaulted Dynamite from behind just after the bell rang, hammering him down to the canvas using a succession of double-axhandles across the back, which Crush joined in on when he got up. Davey Boy Smith sprinted out to make the save, but was soon overwhelmed by the ferocity of Demolition, who continued the carnage until the Legion Of Doom roared out to a great pop, scaring Smash & Crush off. (79%)

While the Legion Of Doom remained in the ring waiting for their match as WWF officials helped the British Bulldogs, Mean Gene Okerlund was backstage to interview Slick and Power & Glory, who preened and posed while the Doctor Of Style did the talking. Slick bragged about Hercules & Paul Roma winning the last time they faced Animal & Hawk, and predicted that they would do the same tonight. He added that they would soon be coming after the WWF Tag Team Championship, which he claimed were theirs for the taking. (79%)

Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal) vs. Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma)

Slick came out with Herc & Romeo, who tried to stall the start of the match by walking around at ringside and refusing to get in the squared circle right away. Hawk & Animal hopped out to the floor and chased them into the ring, where the LOD proceeded to righteously kick both of their asses. Hercules got knocked back to the outside, leaving Roma to be victimized by the LOD, whom Ventura said had something to prove tonight after Paul Ellering's interview last week. As the match went on, Power & Glory asserted themselves with a little help from Slick, punishing Animal and coming close to a repeat victory. Animal fought back though and made the hot tag to Hawk, who rushed in and cleaned house, even knocking the Slickster off the apron when he jumped up. Before the LOD could go for the Doomsday Device, the Powers Of Pain invaded the ring, pouncing on Hawk & Animal, prompting a disqualification from referee Dave Hebner. Barbarian & Warlord wreaked havoc on the LOD with some help from Roma & Hercules, until the British Bulldogs limped back out, trying to repay the favor from Animal & Hawk. Unfortunately, the Englishmen didn't last long in their weakened condition and got beaten down as well, until the Rhodes Family finally charged out, dealing out Bionic Elbows to help clear the heels out of the ring. Warlord & Barbarian left with Paul Ellering, warning Dusty & Dustin that they would pay, as McMahon and Ventura closed the show. (79%)

Overall: 75%

Rating: 5.82

Attendance: 6,003

Ticket Sales: $360,180

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

From high above, Marv Albert and Mike Tenay introduced tonight's LIVE network broadcast, hyping the main event pitting Dusty Rhodes against Randy Savage, plus the return of Jimmy Snuka, Bob Backlund facing Ted DiBiase, the Conquistadors against the Texas Twister & Big Boss Man, and more.

"The King" Jerry Lawler vs. Louie Spicolli

Another grand royal entrance for the cocky King, who Tenay explained has been champion in "territories around the world" and could very well win some gold in the WWF one day soon. The commentators also announced that an eight-man tag team match had been signed for WWF Battle Lines, featuring the British Bulldogs & Legion Of Doom against the Powers Of Pain & Demolition. Lawler dominated the youngster here, but when the King got a little too overconfident and pulled him up before the three-count following the diving fistdrop, Spicolli made a brief comeback and scored a near-fall. Lawler quickly regained control and finished Spicolli off with the Royal Piledriver. (66%)

After his match, Jerry Lawler took the microphone and stood on Louie Spicolli's throat, pointing the mic in his face and asking him who "The King" was in the WWF. Choking and gasping for air, Spicolli sputtered, "Y-y-you are!" Lawler proclaimed that the rest of the "so-called WWF superstars" would soon be saying the same thing, because he is "the one true King of Professional Wrestling". (88%)

In the locker room, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed the Big Boss Man & Kevin Von Erich, who talked about their upcoming match with Les Canadiens at WWF Battle Lines. They said that despite their inexperience as a tag team, they had the passion and dedication to take home the victory at the PPV. (69%)

Big Boss Man & "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

Albert referred to Boss Man & Von Erich as a "unique" tag team, as they polished their tag team skills here against the masked Latin Americans. Tenay suggested that the babyfaces had the right mix of speed and strength to overcome Dino Bravo & The Mountie at Battle Lines. They ended this competitive squash when Von Erich covered #2 after nailing him with the spinning corkscrew Twister Punch from the middle turnbuckle while the masked man was being held in a bearhug by the Boss Man. (66%)

Jesse "The Body" Ventura was in the locker room to interview Rick Martel and Slick, who said that their reunion was going very well. The Model said that the Doctor Of Style knew how to exploit his "immense beauty", while Slick claimed that after Martel ruins Jimmy Snuka's big return tonight, his name would be in lights. (73%)

"The Model" Rick Martel vs. "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka

Rick Martel strutted out first alongside Slick, but when the Superfly's music cued up, nobody came out. After a few moments, there was movement behind the curtain, and Snuka finally appeared, his face and eyes blank and emotionless as he marched down the aisle like a zombie. The commentators seemed disturbed by his behavior as Snuka rolled into the ring and was pounced on by the Model, who stomped and kicked the Fijian. Martel continued the punishment, while Snuka basically just took it without no-selling nor trying to fight back. Martel and Slick looked at each other, confused, as the Model locked the Superfly in the Boston Crab. Referee Joey Marella called for the bell when Snuka was open-eyed but completely unresponsive, awarding the decision to Martel via submission. The baffled Model released the Crab, at which point Snuka rolled out of the ring and staggered up the aisle as if his mission was accomplished. Slick and Martel shrugged their shoulders before leaving as well. (75%)

A camera backstage showed Roddy Piper having a private conference with Virgil, far down a hallway, consisting mostly of Hot Rod talking and Virgil nodding his head. Ted DiBiase walked into view at the end of the hall where the camera sat, and started hollering for his lackey when he saw him chatting with the Rowdy One. Virgil glanced at Piper apologetically before leaving him to join the Million Dollar Man, who berated Virgil as they headed out of view. Piper just shook his head in disappointment and walked off. (82%)

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase vs. Bob Backlund

All the way down the aisle, the beltless Million Dollar Champion verbally abused Virgil, reminding him that he owns him and warning him to stay away from Roddy Piper if he wanted to continue collecting paychecks to support his "bag lady of a mother" back in his hometown. Virgil remained stone-faced at ringside during this technical masterpiece, which saw the two ring veterans exchanging holds and counterholds, with DiBiase eventually taking the upper hand with some underhanded tactics. Backlund made a comeback after using his incredible leg strength to counter the Million Dollar Dream, suplexing DiBiase around the ring. Referee Tim White was bumped when DiBiase ducked a running forearm shot from Backlund, who looked extremely remorseful as he attempted to revive the official. The Million Dollar Man blindsided the former WWF Champion and held him open for Virgil, who was climbing to the top turnbuckle. However, Backlund escaped and Virgil accidentally crashed into his boss with a flying clothesline. Backlund quickly knocked Virgil out of the ring and hooked DiBiase in a lateral guillotine as the ref came-to and made the three-count. Afterwards, a happy Backlund exited and celebrated in the aisle, while DiBiase fumed in the ring. (81%)

After the match, Ted DiBiase kicked the ropes in frustration as Virgil rose on the floor. The Million Dollar Man screamed and yelled, ordering Virgil to get in the ring and be held accountable for his "own stupidity". Virgil slowly climbed in and went nose-to-nose with his boss, still not saying anything. DiBiase ranted at him, before surprising Virgil with an unexpected right hand, followed by a kneelift that knocked the servant to the mat. DiBiase threw in a couple of disgusted stomps, before grabbing hold of Virgil and cinching in the Million Dollar Dream. Virgil quickly fell limp, but DiBiase refused to release his grip until Roddy Piper came rushing down the aisle and into the ring, where he jumped on the Million Dollar Man. DiBiase immediately let go of the hold and was able to escape, leaving the Rowdy Scot on the inside checking on Virgil. DiBiase had a tantrum as he headed up the aisle, swearing revenge now on both Piper and Virgil. (89%)

Backstage, Dustin Rhodes was hugging his father Dusty, wishing him luck and telling him to be careful in his match with Randy Savage. The American Dream said he would, but made Dustin promise not to get involved, no matter what happens. Dustin reluctantly agreed and sat down in front of a monitor while Dusty headed out. (78%)

"Macho Man" Randy Savage vs. "American Dream" Dusty Rhodes

Tenay built up this main event, bringing up all of the past history between these two, including the "tag team match" (wouldn't want people to remember Sapphire or Sensational Sherri now that they're not around, would we, WWF?) at WrestleMania VI last year where Rhodes was victorious over Savage. He added that the latest chapter in their history was written when Savage helped to eliminate Rhodes from this year's Royal Rumble. Not a technical masterpiece by any means, this one turned into a pretty good brawl with some nice crowd heat that saw Rhodes and Savage battle around ringside and half-way up the aisle before returning to the squared circle. Dusty turned it up a few notches and suddenly it was the early-to-mid 1980s all over again for the American Dream, who actually scored some believable near-falls, but Savage kicked out of the Polka Dot Drop, and was able to get his leg over the bottom rope following the Bionic Elbow. The Dream appeared to be running on empty after a while, allowing the Macho Man to take advantage of the situation and finally put Dusty away with the Flying Elbowdrop from the top turnbuckle. Afterwards, the Macho Man glared down at the sweaty Dusty with a hint of respect, before turning toward a camera with a sneer on his face and promising the same result for both Ricky Steamboat and the Ultimate Warrior. Albert and Tenay signed off, hyping WWF Battle Lines one week from tomorrow. (79%)

Overall: 77%

Rating: 6.23

Attendance: 6,048

Ticket Sales: $362,880

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan kicked things off from the back of the audience, running through tonight's lineup: the Texas Twister facing Greg Valentine, Ted DiBiase on "The Brother Love Show", the Nasty Boys, Demolition, and Koko B. Ware in action, as well as Tito Santana challenging WWF Intercontinental Champion Mr. Perfect in the main event.

The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs) vs. Duane Gill & Barry Hardy

Jimmy Hart accompanied his Nasties, proclaiming them the Number One Contenders already, which Heenan agreed with due to their non-title victory over the Hart Foundation at the Royal Rumble. Monsoon argued that it was a tainted win, and that the Rockers had a strong case for contendership after their tremendous effort against the Tag Team Champions a couple of weeks ago, but we will find out who the true Number One Contenders are when the two teams rumble at WWF Battle Lines. Basic squash here, with Saggs covering Gill following the Pit Stop Drop. (57%)

As the Nasty Boys and Jimmy Hart headed up the aisle, Sean Mooney came out to interview them, asking about their match with the Rockers at Battle Lines. The Mouth Of The South claimed that everybody already knows the Nasties are the Number One Contenders, but promised to prove it at the PPV. Knobbs & Saggs added that a win at Battle Lines would secure their title shot for WrestleMania, where they could humiliate the Hart Foundation at the "biggest party of the year" and have the whole world watching them capture the WWF Tag Team Championship. (74%)

A promo aired, hyping the match pitting Bob Backlund against Colonel Robert Lee Fuller for the WWF Battle Lines PPV next week. The voiceover referred to it as the Colonel's WWF wrestling debut and wondered how he might fare against a former long-time WWF Champion. (83%)

Koko B. Ware vs. The Black Phantom

A solid but rather heatless competitive squash, which saw the masked Phantom get in quite a bit of offense while the commentators mostly talked about Battle Lines. The Bird Man put away the Phantom with the Ghostbuster. (60%)

In the locker room, Sean Mooney interviewed Demolition, who growled about wanting to muzzle the British Bulldogs. Smash & Crush were looking forward to joining forces with their "brothers in paint", the Powers Of Pain, to annihilate the Bulldogs and "those Demolition rip-offs", the Legion Of Doom, at Battle Lines. They warned their opponents to watch them in the ring tonight so they could see what they were in for in one week at the PPV. (77%)

Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. Al Perez & Louie Spicolli

WWF Battle Lines was the topic of discussion, as usual, throughout this extended squash, which saw the fearsome Demolition draw out the punishment on their young opponents. Monsoon even objected to their sadism, until finally Smash pinned Perez after Crush dropped across his neck with the Decapitation Elbow. (69%)

Jake "The Snake" Roberts & "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan cut a pre-recorded promo in front of the old "green screen", which displayed the American flag. They promised to defend the honor of the United States at WWF Battle Lines against the Orient Express, with Jake singling out Kato and vowing to unmask him. He started to ramble about masked men, but Duggan reminded him to focus on their match. The segment ended with the Snake uttering the "Don't Tread On Me" patriotic slogan, followed by Hacksaw's "HOOOOOOOOOOO...TOUGH GUY!" (79%)

Greg "The Hammer" Valentine vs. "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich

Jimmy Hart seconded the grizzled Hammer, as Monsoon reminded viewers of the Texas Twister's victory over fellow First Family member Dino Bravo and suggested that Valentine would attempt to soften up Von Erich rather than win outright. The commentators discussed Von Erich's tag team match with the Big Boss Man against Les Canadiens at Battle Lines, as well as applauding the Hammer's effort against WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior on last week's Saturday Night's Main Event. Valentine controlled the slow pace of the contest, working over the Twister's leg while the Mouth Of The South jabbered about putting Kevin in the hospital "right next to his brother", the Texas Tornado. Eventually, Von Erich mounted a comeback and leapt up to the middle turnbuckle, then turned and jumped off with the Twister Punch on Valentine, putting him down long enough to hook the leg for the 1-2-3. (69%)

Following a commercial break, Brother Love was on the set of "The Brother Love Show", grinning and smiling as always. He apologized to his "originally scheduled guest" for tonight, the Reverend Billy Graham, because this morning, he received a call from his long-time benefactor, Ted DiBiase, requesting the guest spot because he needed to speak out. Monsoon doubted that Reverend Graham was the original guest, but Heenan told him it was true. Love brought out the Million Dollar Man, who thanked the preacher before going off on a rant about Roddy Piper stealing his Million Dollar belt and Virgil apparently quitting after last night's Saturday Night's Main Event that naturally turned his face almost as red as Love's painted face. Love asked for more details on Virgil's resignation, sending DiBiase off on another tangent about what an ingrate his now-former servant was, and that he knew Piper was behind the insubordination, so he called out the Rowdy Scot. Piper emerged and turned back to the curtain, pointing proudly as a smug Virgil followed out. The crowd cheered as Piper and Virgil walked up to the stage and taunted the Million Dollar Man, with Hot Rod flipping his kilt up to expose the Million Dollar belt. DiBiase became even more outraged and challenged Piper and "your new best friend" Virgil to a tag team match at WWF Battle Lines, with a partner to be named later, adding that "whoever I get will obviously be a MILLION times better than you, Virgil". Piper immediately accepted and recommended that DiBiase get looking for a partner since he doesn't have a lot of friends. DiBiase pulled a wad of cash out of his pocket and claimed that "these will buy me all the friends I'll ever need!" He then did his trademark laugh and walked off, leaving Virgil & Piper standing there making threatening gestures with their fists. (81%)

A video package aired, featuring highlights of Tito Santana's career thus far, including his appearances at all six WrestleManias to date. It also showed his two WWF Intercontinental Championship victories, over Magnificent Muraco in 1984 and Greg Valentine in 1985, as well as his fine performance in the final round of last year's Intercontinental Title Tournament, where he was narrowly defeated by Mr. Perfect. This segment made it seem like he has a chance tonight, and it worked. (64%)

WWF Intercontinental Title Match: Mr. Perfect [champion] vs. Tito Santana

This was a great, well-worked contest between two of the WWF's scientific masters that went a good ten minutes. The commentators discussed Perfect's issues with Ricky Steamboat as well as the WWF Battle Lines PPV, but stuck to calling the match for the most part. After a number of near-falls from both competitors, Perfect finally finished Santana off when he trapped him in the Perfectplex. Perfect stood on the turnbuckles holding his Intercontinental belt aloft as Monsoon and Heenan ended this week's program. (79%)

Overall: 72%

Rating: 5.34

Attendance: 6,043

Ticket Sales: $362,580

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura introduced the show LIVE from ringside, counting down the days until WWF Battle Lines. They ran through tonight's lineup: Power & Glory meeting the British Bulldogs, Tito Santana & Koko B. Ware taking on the Orient Express, Ricky Steamboat and Dustin Rhodes both in action, and Roddy Piper facing The Undertaker in the main event.

Footage aired from "Earlier This Afternoon" of Ted DiBiase arriving to the arena in a long black limousine. DiBiase still looked angry as he looked around before heading into the building. McMahon explained that the Million Dollar Man has been hunting all day for a tag team partner to take on Virgil & Roddy Piper at WWF Battle Lines. (94%)

Dustin Rhodes vs. Brooklyn Brawler

The commentators hyped a tag team match between the Rhodes Family and the Powers Of Pain for this weekend's Saturday Night's Main Event. McMahon also put Dusty Rhodes over for his effort against Randy Savage this past Saturday night. This was a pretty competitive squash, with the Brawler getting in more offense than he has since 1989, furthering Dustin's "rookie" angle. The end came when Rhodes took down the Brawler with the Rodeo Bulldog. (64%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan talked about the Number One Contenders match between the Rockers and the Nasty Boys coming up at WWF Battle Lines. They announced that they would be interviewing Marty Jannetty & Shawn Michaels tonight, but their first guests were the WWF Tag Team Champions themselves, the Hart Foundation. Bret Hart & Jim Neidhart were wearing street clothes, carrying their championship belts, as they came in and sat at the desk. Monsoon welcomed the titlists and asked them for their thoughts on the Nasties/Rockers match-up at the PPV, and the Hit Man revealed that he and his partner were split on who they wanted to win. Bret put the Rockers over, praising them for their incredible effort during their match a few weeks ago, and welcomed a rematch, so he hoped that Shawn & Marty would win. The Anvil, on the other hand, was fueled by revenge and expressed his wish that Knobbs & Saggs would emerge victorious so that the Harts could "kick their smelly butts" in front of the world at WrestleMania VII. Bret admitted that it didn't really matter who wins, because he and Neidhart could take care of both teams. Neidhart added that he wished there was a way for he and the Hit Man to meet both the Nasties and the Rockers in one match, just to prove what kind of champions they are. They finished by announcing that they would be watching the Number One Contenders bout very closely. (74%)

The Orient Express (Kato & Sato) vs. Tito Santana & Koko B. Ware

McMahon applauded Tito Santana's great showing against WWF Intercontinental Champion Mr. Perfect this past weekend on Superstars, and brought up the Orient Express' upcoming match against Jim Duggan & Jake Roberts at Battle Lines, adding that the Snake & Hacksaw would be facing the Conquistadors this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. Mr. Fuji accompanied his personal assassins for this competitive little match-up, which saw Koko & Tito come close to victory on a number of occasions. However, Kato pinned the Bird Man after the Double Thrust Kick from he and Sato. (67%)

Back in the studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan discussed some more of the WWF Battle Lines card before introducing Bob Backlund, who walked in and shook their hands, although the Brain made a face afterwards. Gorilla asked the former WWF Champion about his match with Colonel Robert Lee Fuller at Battle Lines, and Backlund sounded a bit frustrated as he recounted how his big return to the WWF at the Royal Rumble was ruined when the Honky Tonk Man made him the first elimination. He explained that then he went one-on-one with Honky on Superstars to gain some revenge, but "this character" the Colonel ruined that for him as well, so he vowed to make an example out of the Southern promoter at the PPV. Backlund was dismayed at the "proliferation of gimmicks and caricatures" in the WWF during his self-imposed hiatus, and looked forward to proving that "pure athletics and scientific wrestling" can still get the job done. (78%)

Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. Iron Mike Sharpe

The talk during this bout centered on the Steel Cage Match against Randy Savage at Battle Lines, with McMahon also hyping the Dragon squaring off with the Honky Tonk Man the night before the PPV on Saturday Night's Main Event. McMahon called Steamboat an "iron man", while Ventura disapproved of his schedule, wrestling three times in six days, including the Steel Cage Match. The Dragon put Iron Mike away with the Reign Of Fire to a nice pop. (69%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan were in the Prime Time studio, where they were soon joined by the Rockers, wearing tight jeans and tank tops. Monsoon announced that on Saturday Night's Main Event the evening before WWF Battle Lines, the Rockers would meet the Nasty Boys in singles matches: Marty Jannetty against Jerry Saggs, and Shawn Michaels against Brian Knobbs. Both Rockers said they were raring to go, and while the Number One Contendership was important, they were also out for vengeance, after the Nasties' sneak attack on "The Brother Love Show" a week ago. Michaels added that it was an honor for Bret Hart casting his support for the Rockers at Battle Lines, and hoped to provide the rematch that the tag team world was waiting for at WrestleMania VII. (72%)

Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma) vs. The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith & Dynamite Kid)

Slick escorted his charges for this fantastic tag team bout, which featured plenty of hard-hitting action. The commentators briefly mentioned the eight-man match at Battle Lines teaming the Bulldogs with the Legion Of Doom against the Powers Of Pain & Demolition. Romeo & Herc looked great against the former WWF Tag Team Champions here, scoring several near-falls while controlling the middle of the match. Davey Boy fought back and made the hot tag to Dynamite, who rushed in and took on both opponents with headbutts, chops, and snap suplexes. As Dynamite was exploding on Power & Glory, Demolition stalked down to ringside, looking even more evil than usual. Dynamite was on the top turnbuckle preparing for the Diving Headbutt but became distracted by Smash & Crush, allowing Hercules to take his legs out, forcing him to straddle the turnbuckle. Demolition went around to take care of Smith while Herc & Romeo executed the Powerplex on the Kid, giving the Mighty One the pinfall. The Legion Of Doom quickly charged out to rescue their Battle Lines teammates before anymore damage could be done. (81%)

Backstage in a darkened locker room, Brother Love seemed to be holding some kind of prayer service next to the Undertaker, readying him for his match with Roddy Piper...UP NEXT! (82%)

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper vs. The Undertaker

Hot Rod entered first, as the commentators discussed Ted DiBiase's ongoing search backstage to find a tag team partner to take on Piper & Virgil at Battle Lines, and mentioned that Virgil was back home visiting his sick mother tonight. Brother Love seconded the Grim Reaper, and this main event provided a very interesting contrast of styles, with the Scotsman getting some shots in on the Pale Destroyer, who also looked strong, dominating Piper. Piper was able to knock the Dead Man off of his feet with a Lou Thesz Press from the middle turnbuckle, and got a few other near-falls with roll-ups and a backslide. When the brawl spilled out to the floor, Piper turned it up a few notches, whipping the Undertaker hard against the ringpost, at which point Brother Love hopped up on the apron, distracting referee Joey Marella. While the Undertaker was doing his old "zombie sit-up", Ted DiBiase sprinted down to ringside and waffled Hot Rod with a metal folding chair across the back of the head, before shoving Piper back in under the bottom rope. The Undertaker had also returned to the ring and scooped up Piper, planting him with the Tombstone and covering him for the three-count as McMahon proclaimed this the biggest victory thus far in the Dead Man's young career. (79%)

After the main event, the Million Dollar Man climbed in the ring with a microphone and laid some vicious stomps into the motionless Roddy Piper, while the Undertaker and Brother Love stood off to the side. Ted DiBiase pointed down in the Rowdy Scot's face and ranted about his stolen Million Dollar belt, then brought up the tag team match at WWF Battle Lines and said that Virgil was lucky he wasn't in the arena tonight. DiBiase finished by standing between Love and the Undertaker and announced, "Well Piper... I guess you've met my tag team partner for Battle Lines." He did his trademark laugh as the show came to an end. (83%)

Overall: 77%

Rating: 5.90

Attendance: 6,034

Ticket Sales: $362,040

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Prior to the opening montage, a video package ran to hype tonight's main event pitting Ricky Steamboat against the Honky Tonk Man. It featured some highlights of their battles in 1987, including the TV match where Honky captured the WWF Intercontinental Championship from the Dragon, as well as Steamboat eliminating the cocky Elvis impersonator from this year's Royal Rumble. The promo ended with soundbites from both competitors. (80%)

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay kicked off the LIVE network broadcast, hyping WWF Battle Lines tomorrow night, and tonight's show, including Shawn Michaels facing Brian Knobbs, Jerry Saggs meeting Marty Jannetty, the Rhodes Family taking on the Powers Of Pain, Honky Tonk Man against Ricky Steamboat in the main event, and a whole lot more.

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase & The Undertaker vs. Scott Taylor & Rob Zakowski

Brother Love accompanied Undertaker & DiBiase as Tenay recalled their history together, from DiBiase financing "The Brother Love Show" to the Undertaker making his WWF debut at last year's Survivor Series as a member of the Million Dollar Man's Million Dollar Team. The commentators also hyped DiBiase & Undertaker against Roddy Piper & Virgil at Battle Lines. The Dead Man wrestled most of the match, dominating his smaller opponents until burying Taylor with the Tombstone. He then tagged in the Million Dollar Man, who placed one foot on Taylor's chest to pick up the 1-2-3. When Zakowski tried to make the save, the Undertaker caught the Jean-Claude Van Damme lookalike and planted him with the Tombstone as well. Love performed the last rites on both men before the heels left. (72%)

Backstage in the locker room, Jim Duggan was hanging out with Jake Roberts, who was feverishly searching the room. Hacksaw assured him that no one else was in the room except for them, suggesting that the Snake needed help. Jake said the only therapy he needs takes place in the ring, so they headed out. After they left, there seemed to be some movement behind a row of lockers. (81%)

Jake "The Snake" Roberts & "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

The commentators hyped Roberts & Duggan's match at Battle Lines against the Orient Express, as Jake immediately went after both masked opponents as soon as he hit the ring. Duggan joined in as well, as all four men went at it, trading kicks and punches. The Conquistadors fared well during the bout, while Duggan & Roberts did not have a lot of chemistry as a team, but were popular with the fans. In the end, the Snake drilled #2 with the DDT to win the contest. Afterwards, Jake kept punishing the Conquistador until Hacksaw pulled him off and told him to focus on their match tomorrow night. (67%)

Jerry Saggs vs. Marty Jannetty

Jimmy Hart escorted the Nasty Boy, who engaged in a solid match with the Rocker. They traded the advantage numerous times as the commentators hyped the Rockers/Nasties match at Battle Lines. This one came to an end when Jannetty avoided an avalanche and brought Saggs down with the Rocker Dropper to score the three-count. Afterwards, Brian Knobbs invaded the ring and assaulted Jannetty, beating him down to the canvas until Shawn Michaels made the save. A swarm of WWF officials flooded the ring and held Michaels and Knobbs apart until after the commercial break. (73%)

After the break, the Texas Twister & Big Boss Man cut a promo in front of the "green screen", which displayed both superstars' respective logos. They talked about their WWF Battle Lines match against Dino Bravo & The Mountie tomorrow night, promising victory over Les Canadiens. (76%)

Brian Knobbs vs. Shawn Michaels

The officials helped Marty Jannetty back to the locker room and let these two go at it tooth-and-nail while Jimmy Hart tended to Jerry Saggs on the outside. Similar contest to the Jannetty/Saggs match-up, with both competitors looking strong against each other, exchanging holds and fists. Eventually, Saggs climbed up on the apron, but Michaels reversed Knobbs' Irish-whip and sent the Nasty Boys crashing into each other, knocking Saggs down to the floor. When Knobbs turned back toward his opponent, Shawn smacked him with a sweet superkick, hooking the leg for the pinfall. Afterwards, Shawn escaped before Saggs could attack him. (75%)

From the locker room, Sean Mooney interviewed the Powers Of Pain and Paul Ellering, who were preparing for their match tonight against the Rhodes Family. Warlord & Barbarian snorted and grunted, intimidating Mooney, as Precious Paul promised the slaughter of the entire Rhodes clan, and then spoke about Battle Lines. He referred to the POP's alliance with Demolition in the eight-man tag team match as an "Armageddon Coalition" and vowed that it would be "Doomsday" for the Legion Of Doom & The British Bulldogs at the PPV. (75%)

Powers Of Pain (Barbarian & Warlord) vs. Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes)

Paul Ellering accompanied his Powers Of Pain, while the Rhodes Family came out to a nice pop from the fans. Barbarian & Warlord controlled the flow of the contest with devastating power moves and quick tags, hammering on both Dustin & Dusty, who managed to fight back a few times and surprise the facepainted hellions. During the bout, Power & Glory along with Slick appeared in the aisle and seemed to be scouting the Rhodes Family, which unfortunately distracted young Dustin just when he was gaining momentum against the Barbarian, who took advantage of the situation and dragged the Son Of The Dream back to the POP corner, tagging the Warlord. They unleashed the End Of Days on Dustin, and Warlord covered him while Barbarian dropped the American Dream with a big foot to the face when he tried to stop the pin. The Powers Of Pain left victorious with Ellering as the commentators hyped the eight-man tag team match at WWF Battle Lines. (75%)

Sean Mooney was in the locker room to interview the Honky Tonk Man and Colonel Robert Lee Fuller, who called their joint venture "Honkyland Promotions". The Colonel said he was more than prepared to go head-to-head with Bob Backlund tomorrow night at Battle Lines, while Honky bragged about how "easily" he defeated Ricky Steamboat four years ago, adding that it should be even easier now that the Dragon has just come out of the "retirement home". Honky said Steamboat would be just another repeat name on his list of "Greatest Hits". (77%)

Honky Tonk Man vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat

Colonel Robert Lee Fuller seconded the Honky Tonk Man, who was in vintage form for this main event. He used every underhanded trick in the book to gain control, eye-gouging and choking Steamboat as the commentators worried about what kind of shape the Dragon would be in for Battle Lines tomorrow night. When Steamboat took over, Honky and the Colonel headed up the aisle, preferring to let referee Earl Hebner count them out instead, but Steamboat followed them and grabbed them by their heads, dropping both with the good ol' double noggin-knocker. Steamboat dragged Honky back to the ring and tossed him in, leading to several more minutes of hot back-and-forth action, with Honky actually using some wrestling skill, while Steamboat showed why many view him as the "total package" in the WWF. Finally, the Dragon finished off his long-time rival with the Reign Of Fire. Albert and Tenay put the final touches on the WWF Battle Lines hype as the Dragon celebrated to close the show. (79%)

Overall: 75%

Rating: 6.29

Attendance: 6,040

Ticket Sales: $362,400

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Here's the official card for WWF Battle Lines...

Steel Cage Match: Ricky Steamboat vs. Randy Savage

"Number One Contenders" Match: The Rockers vs. The Nasty Boys

Eight-Man Tag Team Match: Legion Of Doom & The British Bulldogs vs. Powers Of Pain & Demolition

Roddy Piper & Virgil vs. Ted DiBiase & The Undertaker

Jim Duggan & Jake Roberts vs. The Orient Express

Big Boss Man & Kevin Von Erich vs. Les Canadiens

Bob Backlund vs. Colonel Robert Lee Fuller

On paper, this looks like a one-match show, but I think it will be a good opportunity to expose some of the under-appreciated undercard talent, and I really believe that this PPV could be a "sleeper" hit. With the new monthly PPV schedule, the "more affordable" events should be used to showcase the undercard storylines while still advancing the main angles, with the "Big Five" events devoted to the top feuds. We'll see how it goes.

[Chrononaut]

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1991 -- WWF BATTLE LINES

The half-hour Preview Show prior to the pay-per-view was hosted by Mean Gene Okerlund and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, exchanging verbal barbs as they went through the card for WWF Battle Lines, recalling highlights from the preceding weeks leading up to the PPV for each bout. The program closed with a slickly-produced video hyping the Randy Savage/Ricky Steamboat Steel Cage Match, featuring the outside interests of Mr. Perfect and the Ultimate Warrior. (90%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura opened the broadast from the stage at the back of the arena, welcoming fans to this brand-new pay-per-view and briefly discussing some of tonight's matches before handing it over to ring announcer Howard "The Fink" Finkel in the squared circle.

Bob Backlund vs. Colonel Robert Lee Fuller

Both men came out alone, and the Colonel wore long blue tights when he wrestled, leaving his cowboy hat in the corner. The commentators stated that the WWF newcomer had "some wrestling experience" but did not elaborate. This match was definitely the surprise of the night, as both competitors worked hard to put on an entertaining contest. The Colonel used his height advantage for leverage, as well as using some typical heel tactics, while Backlund utilized his amateur wrestling background and superior scientific skills to counter Fuller's brawling technique, working over Fuller's shoulder. The Honky Tonk Man came down to ringside mid-match and rooted for his new business partner/promoter, the distraction allowing Fuller to assert himself and dominate Backlund for a few minutes, until he missed a running shoulderblock in the corner and ended up smashing his own shoulder into the ringpost. The Colonel staggered back and was immediately locked into the Cross-Face Chicken-Wing with bodyscissors, Backlund taking him down to the canvas and wrenching back on the shoulder. Finally, Honky could stand no more and threw his scarf into the ring, signaling a submission from the Colonel and a victory for Backlund. Backlund was wide-eyed, almost in a trance, at the decision, as the commentators recalled that that was basically how Backlund lost the WWF Championship over seven years ago. Honky helped Fuller back up the aisle while Backlund snapped out of his "trip down memory lane" and began celebrating his first-ever WWF PPV win. (77%)

Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed the Orient Express and Mr. Fuji in the locker room as they were preparing for their match against Jake Roberts & Jim Duggan. Fuji promised to bring the United States crumbling to its knees, and that if things didn't work out tonight, he still had another ace up his sleeve. (64%)

The Orient Express (Kato & Sato) vs. "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan & Jake "The Snake" Roberts

As usual, Mr. Fuji accompanied Sato & Kato, while their opponents came out waving the American flag, along with Hacksaw's trusty 2x4 and the Snake's bag containing his python Damian. Duggan had "Old Glory" trunks with stars and stripes on them, while Jake's tights were covered with the "Don't Tread On Me" rattlesnake flag motif. A decent match as far as tag teams go, although Roberts & Duggan did not use a lot of quick tags, which allowed the Express to control a good portion of the bout, displaying their flashy double-team maneuvers. The Americans battled back, and looked ready to take home the win after Duggan mowed down both Kato & Sato with the Three Point Stance. However, Jake tagged himself in and went after the masked Kato, while Hacksaw knocked Sato to the floor and followed him out. Jake drilled Kato with the DDT, but pulled him up before the three-count and started choking him while trying to rip off his mask, yelling incomprehensibly. When the Snake wouldn't break the chokehold, referee Danny Marsh called for the disqualification, awarding the decision to the Orient Express. This didn't faze the Snake, who kept choking and punching the masked man. Finally, Duggan got back in and pried Roberts off of Kato, but Roberts shoved him away and went right back to work on Kato until a sea of WWF officials were able to drag him out of the ring. (69%)

Number One Contenders Match: The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs) vs. The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty)

Jimmy Hart came out with his Nasty Boys as the commentators discussed the Mouth Of The South pulling double-duty back-to-back tonight, as Les Canadiens' bout was the next scheduled match. The Rockers received a great squealing pop from the females in the audience, and they wrestled a great match, trying to keep the larger Nasties off-balance with their combination of quick tags and lightning-like double-teams. Saggs & Knobbs also worked well together, battering Marty & Shawn down with tooth-rattling street-fight techniques. As the action progressed, WWF Tag Team Champions The Hart Foundation stood in the aisleway, closely scouting both tag teams, which seemed to distract Knobbs and allowed both Jannetty & Michaels to score a few near-falls. The Anvil & Hit Man just smirked as the Rockers continued to outmaneuver the distracted Nasties, who managed to get back on track a bit later, after some interference from the Mouth. Some more hard-fought action finally resulted in Knobbs covering Jannetty following the Pit Stop Drop. The Harts nodded and headed back through the curtain as Knobbs & Saggs, along with Jimmy Hart, rubbed their victory into the fans' faces. (77%)

Les Canadiens (Dino Bravo & The Mountie) vs. Big Boss Man & "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich

With only a brief break to promote next month's "affordable" PPV (March To WrestleMania) between this match and the last, Ventura claimed there was a conspiracy against Jimmy Hart, who didn't have much time to confer with his proteges and change into his Canadiens outfit. The Mouth Of The South waved the Canadian flag throughout this solid tag team contest, which saw the experienced Canadiens dominate Von Erich with fast tags and bone-shaking power moves, but the Texan kept kicking out. Eventually, Von Erich ducked out of a double-team, causing Bravo to crash into the Mountie, and allowing the Twister to make the hot tag to the Boss Man, who rushed in and punched away on both heels before clotheslining Bravo over the top rope. Shortly thereafter, Boss Man tagged Von Erich back in and held the Mountie up in a bearhug, letting the Texan bounce off the middle turnbuckle with the Twister Punch to put the Canadian down for the three-count. Afterwards, the faces dragged Jimmy Hart in and searched him, retrieving the Mountie's handcuffs and key. With a slightly sadistic grin on his face, Boss Man handcuffed the groggy Mountie to the ring ropes and mockingly read him his rights. They left with the key, as Jimmy freaked out, trying to free his Mountie. Some WWF officials, armed with a hacksaw, eventually came out to help. (73%)

Eight-Man Tag Team Match: Powers Of Pain (Barbarian & Warlord) & Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal) & The British Bulldogs (Dynamite Kid & Davey Boy Smith)

Paul Ellering, carrying his ever-present rolled-up Wall Street Journal, escorted the Powers Of Pain & Demolition; when the British Bulldogs came out with the Legion Of Doom, Davey Boy & Dynamite had on facepaint made up to look like a couple of vicious dogs. This was a one-fall bout, with plenty of wild and woolly brawling involving all eight competitors. Late in the contest, the Bulldogs fought into the crowd with Warlord & Barbarian, leaving Animal & Hawk to slug it out with Crush & Smash on the inside. After the LOD knocked Demolition down, Precious Paul attempted to interfere, but it backfired as Animal dragged him into the ring, while Hawk and Smash battled out to ringside. Animal gripped Ellering by the neck, holding him in the air and choking him until Crush attacked from behind, freeing Ellering, who quickly rolled out to the floor. Animal fired back, opening up on Crush with punches, kicks, and forearms before displaying his immense strength, pressing the 6'6" 320-pound beast over his head and holding him up there. Suddenly, another bulky, facepainted man in a black sweater and black pants appeared at ringside, reaching in under the bottom rope and yanking Animal's leg, bringing Crush crashing down on top of him. When they both got up, Crush caught the confused Animal in a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker and hooked the leg for the winning pinfall. The man in black joined Crush in stomping Animal after the bell, and was quickly identified as none other than original Demolition member Ax! Ax & Crush took off when Hawk rushed back in to rescue his partner. Ax, Crush, & Smash left together, raising their arms and sticking out their tongues as Monsoon and Ventura were surprised at the return of Ax to the WWF. (78%)

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper & Virgil vs. "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase & The Undertaker

Hot Rod looked a little beaten up, nursing a sore neck, which the commentators attributed to the Undertaker's Tombstone last Monday on Prime Time Wrestling; however, he still had the Million Dollar belt, and brought it out with him. Brother Love accompanied his Grim Reaper as usual, with a big fake smile on his red face. Wearing blue trunks and "RP" boots matching those of the Rowdy Scot, Virgil was set to start off against DiBiase, but the Million Dollar Man demanded he tag in Piper, promising to deal with his former servant later. Piper was more than happy to comply, gaining the upper hand to the delight of the fans and holding onto it until he decided to go after Brother Love, giving DiBiase the opportunity to blindside Hot Rod and tag out to the Dead Man. The Undertaker dominated, although Piper got in his shots and actually came close to making the tag, but DiBiase ran around the ring and pulled Virgil off the apron, then sent him head-first into the ringpost. The Pale Destroyer floored Piper with the awe-inspiring "walk across the top rope" forearm across the back, and tagged in the Million Dollar Man, who excused the Undertaker from the match, assuring he and Love that he had it all wrapped up. They slowly walked up the aisle while DiBiase methodically kicked and stomped the downed Scotsman, while Virgil was still laid out on the floor at ringside, only now starting to stir. DiBiase executed a spinning neckbreaker and called for the Million Dollar Dream, which of course means that Piper went on to escape his grasp and instead clamp on his own Sleeperhold. While DiBiase flailed in the clutches of the Sleeper, he accidentally kicked referee Joey Marella, knocking the official to the canvas. DiBiase was fading fast, when suddenly, Virgil whacked Piper in the back of the head with the Million Dollar belt, which he had retrieved from underneath Hot Rod's kilt in the corner. Piper collapsed to the mat as the crowd booed heavily, while Virgil dragged DiBiase on top of Piper and woke up the ref, who groggily administered the 1-2-3. Virgil collected the gold-and-diamond-studded "championship" belt and helped the Million Dollar Man out of the ring as Monsoon was in shock at Virgil's re-turn, while Ventura called it a great business decision. (82%)

Steel Cage Match: "Macho Man" Randy Savage vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat

There was a palpable buzz for this huge main event, even during the ring entrances of the two superstars. This one went a little over half an hour and was everything you would imagine, with some absolutely jaw-dropping high spots from both competitors in their endless quest to one-up each other. Steamboat hit a flying karate chop from the top turnbuckle, so a bit later Savage nailed him with a flying double-axhandle from the middle of the blue-bar cage. Neither man was able to escape, so the battle raged on with some very hot action. Savage came close when he climbed the cage after dropping the Flying Elbowdrop from the top turnbuckle, but Steamboat staggered to his feet and climbed up as well, catching Savage at the very top of the structure and bringing him crashing down to the canvas with a devastating double-underhook superplex. This brought the crowd to their feet, while leaving the competitors both laid out. Finally, the Dragon crawled toward the cage door, which was being opened by referee Dave Hebner, when WWF Intercontinental Champion Mr. Perfect sprinted out and slammed the steel door on Steamboat's head, busting him open. BLOOD IS BACK IN THE WWF! Perfect shoved the ref aside and entered the cage, going to work on Steamboat, who rallied back with the fans behind him and went toe-to-toe with the Flawless One until several WWF officials flooded into the cage and dragged the Intercontinental Champion out. WWF President Andre The Giant made an appearance, ordering Perfect to be tossed out of the building, as the main event continued with the bloody Dragon brawling with the Macho Man. Savage somehow made a comeback, planting Steamboat with a piledriver and scaling the cage wall, about half-way up, before diving with the Flying Elbowdrop. Savage climbed the cage and almost made it over the top, but once again the resilient Dragon caught up with him, grabbing a handful of hair and ramming Savage's head against the steel bars repeatedly until the former WWF Champion fell to the mat. Upon further inspection, Savage looked to also be bleeding from his forehead, but got back up. When he saw Savage coming, Steamboat turned at the top of the cage and flew off with the Reign Of Fire onto the Macho Man, drawing a huge pop from the fans. Steamboat scaled the cage, bleeding and breathing heavily, as Savage stumbled to the ropes and followed him up. After a brief slugfest, Savage gouged Steamboat's eye and hooked him up, dropping both of them with an incredible super Russian legsweep off the cage wall to the canvas. The dazed Macho Man headed up again, but unbelievably, Steamboat rose again and grabbed Savage by the ankle, trying to pull him back down. Savage kept kicking but Steamboat was tenacious, not letting go until finally Savage caught him with a nice heel shot to the wound on his forehead, knocking the Dragon on his back. Savage contemplated going over the top, but instead stood on THE VERY TOP OF THE CAGE, balancing 15 feet in the air before swooping down with a gigantic Flying Elbowdrop that absolutely crushed the sternum of the Dragon. The weary Macho Man crawled toward the door, dragging himself out the door and dropping out to the floor to secure the victory in a grueling war. Afterwards as he staggered to his feet, Savage mumbled something about going back in to finish Steamboat off once and for all; meanwhile, WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior ran in from the audience and climbed into the cage from the opposite side, so when Savage slid back into the ring under the bottom rope and stood up, he was unexpectedly face-to-face with the Warrior. They stared each other down until Warrior blocked a right hand from Savage and answered back with a salvo of punches, then hoisted him overhead and tossed the Macho Man against the cage wall. Savage dropped to the apron and Warrior beat his chest before kneeling to check on the Dragon, while Monsoon and Ventura thanked fans for joining WWF Battle Lines and invited them to order the March To WrestleMania on Sunday, March 31st. (87%)

Overall: 77%

Buyrate: 1.25

Attendance: 14,445

PPV Revenue: $3,125,000

Ticket Sales: $866,700

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura kicked things off from ringside, talking about the previous night's WWF Battle Lines and what a great Steel Cage Match it was between Ricky Steamboat and Randy Savage. Then they ran down tonight's program, including the Rhodes Family against the Conquistadors, Colonel Fuller meeting Koko B. Ware, Big Boss Man facing Jerry Lawler, and more, adding that the Macho Man, the Dragon, Mr. Perfect, and the Ultimate Warrior were all in the building this evening.

The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs) vs. Al Perez & Louie Spicolli

Jimmy Hart looked as full of himself as ever when he came down with his Nasties, as the commentators brought up their "Number One Contenders" victory over the Rockers at Battle Lines, calling it a hard-hitting match-up. That was the preferred topic of conversation, while the Nasties abused their opponents, finishing them off when Saggs covered Perez following the Pit Stop Drop. (65%)

After the match, the Nasty Boys dragged Louie Spicolli into the ring and squashed him with the Pit Stop Drop as well. Knobbs & Saggs kept kicking and stomping their opponents, until the Bushwhackers surprised everybody, charging out and knocking the Nasties out to the floor with a pair of Bushwhacker Battering Rams. McMahon reminded viewers that the Nasties put Luke & Butch out of action prior to the Royal Rumble last month, and now the New Zealanders were back for revenge. (75%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan talked about WWF Battle Lines, with Monsoon claiming that one of the surprise upsets came from the Big Boss Man and their first guest tonight, Kevin Von Erich. The Texas Twister entered the room wearing blue jeans, cowboy boots, and a Texas Tornado t-shirt, and was congratulated by Gorilla on winning his first WWF pay-per-view outing. Gorilla asked for his thoughts on his first WWF PPV, but Heenan piped in, arguing that the Twister's brain wasn't big enough to have thoughts "from that long ago". Von Erich ignored him and said that he was nervous last night, but he was grateful to have the Boss Man as his partner, and he was almost as surprised as anybody else when he pinned the Mountie. Monsoon asked what was next in his career, to which Von Erich had four words: "The Model" Rick Martel. He blamed the Model for putting his younger brother, the Texas Tornado, on the shelf for the next year and a half and vowed to get even, "because when you mess with one Von Erich, you mess with ALL the Von Erichs!" (72%)

Back at the arena in the locker room, the Honky Tonk Man was getting ready to play his guitar for Colonel Robert Lee Fuller, nursing a sore shoulder, but looked at the others in the room (mostly jobbers and hangers-on) and deemed them "not worthy" to hear him play. The Colonel agreed and said it was time for his match anyway, so they headed out. (83%)

Colonel Robert Lee Fuller vs. Koko B. Ware

The Honky Tonk Man and his guitar accompanied the World's Greatest Promoter and joined Ventura and McMahon on commentary at ringside, putting Fuller over for his effort against Bob Backlund at Battle Lines in his WWF wrestling debut. Fuller looked good here as well against Koko, handling the WWF mainstay with heelish tactics and power brawling technique, while Koko responded with his aerial offense. In the end, the Colonel avoided a missile dropkick from the top turnbuckle and locked in a modified inside toehold, called "Whistlin' Dixie" by Honky (as in, "he ain't just Whistlin' Dixie, McMahon!"), on the Bird Man, who soon submitted. After a few kicks, the Colonel left with Honky Tonk. (69%)

In the studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan discussed another surprise from WWF Battle Lines: the return of Ax to the WWF, which led to them introducing Demolition (Ax, Smash, & Crush) as their next guests. When asked why he came back, Ax explained that he was sick and tired of the "WWF brass" not taking the "new" Demolition seriously, and he was back to ensure that Crush & Smash lived up to the "original" Demolition's standards. Smash added that over the last couple of months since Ax had left, something was missing, and now that Ax was back, Demolition would be firing on all cylinders again. Crush just nodded as Ax stated that his eventual goal was to lead Smash & Crush to the WWF Tag Team Championship, but first they had to take out the British Bulldogs and the Legion Of Doom. In fact, Ax issued a challenge for Hawk & Animal to take on Smash & Crush next week on Prime Time Wrestling, adding that they would be at this weekend's Saturday Night's Main Event to get the answer personally. Smash ended the interview by barking that if the LOD accept the challenge, they'll "kick yer stinkin' teeth in!" (70%)

Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

The commentators discussed the Rhodes Family's on-going feud with Power & Glory during this solid tag team bout, which saw an extended heat sequence on the American Dream, who eventually came back and made the hot tag to son Dustin. The Son Of The Dream cleaned house, looking impressive, as McMahon suggested that Dustin has the potential to surpass even his father one day. Soon after, Dustin pinned #1 after the Double Bionic Elbow from he and Dusty. (69%)

After the match, Mean Gene Okerlund appeared in the aisleway to interview the Rhodes Family, who talked some trash about Power & Glory. The American Dream was looking forward to "gettin' funky like a monkey, daddy" all over Hercules & Paul Roma, while Dustin noted that the heels were nothing in a fair fight without their steel chain, so maybe the Rhodes Family would have to fight fire with fire. (82%)

"The King" Jerry Lawler vs. Big Boss Man

During the King's regal entrance, McMahon made sure to note that the Boss Man just wrestled the night before at Battle Lines, while Lawler was not in action, so Lawler already had an advantage. Ventura retorted that the King already had an advantage anyway because he had an IQ above 50 and Boss Man didn't. The crowd was into this de facto main event, cheering on the Boss Man as he chased the weasely King around ringside and into the ring. The match continued in a similar vein, with Lawler stalling and cheating to combat Boss Man's superior size and strength. The former corrections officer scored a near-fall with the Boss Man Slam, but Lawler was able to get his leg over the rope. Eventually, Boss Man reversed an Irish-whip but ducked his head too early for a back-bodydrop, which allowed the King to hook up the 340-pounder and plant him with the Royal Piledriver, then hooked the leg for the 1-2-3. The crowd booed as the King quickly took off with his victory. (77%)

Back in the studio, Bobby Heenan forced Gorilla Monsoon to give credit to Jerry Lawler for cleanly pinning an established WWF superstar like the Big Boss Man. Monsoon changed the subject, showing footage from last night's WWF Battle Lines of Jake Roberts being disqualified for refusing to release his chokehold on Kato of the Orient Express, and continuing to beat on the masked man after the match. He then brought in the Snake, wearing a sweater and snakeskin pants, followed by WWF President Andre The Giant, who sat down beside Monsoon across the desk from Jake. Jake wondered why the President was there, and soon found out as Andre explained that the Snake's actions lately have been erratic and unpredictable. He said that many top WWF officials feared for Jake's mental health since he seems paranoid and delusional, seeing masked men around every corner and in every shadow, but Roberts tried to explain it by blaming it on recurring vision problems as a result of Rick Martel spraying Arrogance in his eyes a few months ago. Andre persisted, informing Roberts that he was suspended from in-ring action until he completed several sessions with a psychiatrist, at which point his psychological fitness for in-ring competition would be re-assessed. The Snake protested, but the Giant stood up and boomed that "the decision is final" and Roberts could take it or leave it. Jake looked incredibly pissed as he got up and stormed out of the studio. Monsoon congratulated the President on standing his ground, while Heenan also agreed profusely, although Andre saw through the Brain's blatant ass-kissing and ignored him as he shook Gorilla's hand. (88%)

After a commercial break, "Macho Man" Randy Savage marched down to the ring to a thunderous heel pop and took the microphone. He said that he had "a hell of a match" (oh no, he said hell!) last night at Battle Lines, adding that it was the fight of his life and he was a lucky man to emerge with the victory. The Macho Man claimed that he wanted to personally thank his opponent for such a mind-blowing contest and called him out. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat cautiously walked out, wearing street clothes, and got in the ring, standing face-to-face with Savage, who put Steamboat over big-time as he rambled about what a narrow win it was. The Dragon responded that Savage proved last night that he was the better man, Steamboat's toughest opponent ever, and more than worthy of the WWF Title shot at WrestleMania VII. Steamboat then offered his hand, wishing Savage luck in April at WrestleMania as the fans were split in their reaction. Savage looked around, deciding what to do, before finally accepting the Dragon's handshake, to a nice pop from the fans. Suddenly, the Macho Man nailed the Dragon with a cheapshot right hand and proceeded to follow up with several more closed fists as the crowd booed heavily. Steamboat battled back, slugging it out with Savage until Mr. Perfect sprinted down to the ring and attacked Steamboat from behind. Perfect and Savage stomped and kicked the downed Dragon, mercilessly assaulting him as McMahon cried out for "somebody, ANYBODY" to make the save. The Ultimate Warrior charged down the aisle and into the squared circle, where he traded fists with both the Macho Man and the WWF Intercontinental Champion as Steamboat pulled himself up and joined the fray again. The brawl continued until a sea of WWF agents and officials flooded down to separate the four men, as McMahon and Ventura ended the show. (77%)

Overall: 75%

Rating: 6.08

Attendance: 6,515

Ticket Sales: $390,900

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Celebrating birthdays in February were...

Conquistador #2 (26)

Marty Jannetty (29)

Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart (35)

Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat (38)

Kerry Von Erich (31)

Warlord (31)

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SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay opened the LIVE network broadcast, briefly discussing last Sunday's WWF Battle Lines before moving on to tonight's lineup: the main event featuring Mr. Perfect defending the WWF Intercontinental Championship against Davey Boy Smith, Jim Duggan meeting Dino Bravo, Tito Santana taking on former partner Rick Martel, the in-ring return of the Bushwhackers, and Bob Backlund squaring off with Greg Valentine.

The Bushwhackers (Luke & Butch) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

Definitely not a mat classic, but it entertained the fans while the commentators discussed the Bushwhackers' appearance on Prime Time Wrestling, surprising the Nasty Boys. This was a competitive squash highlighted by the zany antics of the New Zealanders, ending when Luke covered #1 following the double-team Bushwhacker Battering Ram. (65%)

After the match, Mean Gene Okerlund caught up with the Bushwhackers in the aisleway, asking them about their grudge against the Nasty Boys. The wild New Zealanders babbled about their training regimen of "eating sardines and drinking beer" during their lay-off, and how it prepared them to come back to the ring to get some revenge. Luke & Butch issued a challenge for the Nasty Boys to meet them in a "New Zealand Rules" match at the WWF March To WrestleMania PPV, before licking a disgusted Mean Gene's bald head and marching away. (70%)

A pre-recorded vignette showed Jake "The Snake" Roberts, wearing a leather jacket and snakeskin pants, walking into what appeared to be a doctor's office, looking very disgruntled. He gruffly checked in with the receptionist, who told him that Dr. Schultz would be right with him. Jake still seemed a bit paranoid as he glanced around the empty waiting room, looking behind a couple of chairs and in the closet, then slumped down into a chair, muttering about WWF President Andre The Giant under his breath. After a couple of minutes, the door opened and there stood a man wearing a suit and tie, about 5'10", with a white face-mask on, which set Jake off. He jumped to his feet and charged toward the man, who backed up and slammed the door, yelling from behind that he was Dr. Schultz. An irate Snake demanded to know why a psychiatrist would be wearing a mask, to which the doctor replied that it was part of his therapy plan. Dr. Schultz lifted his mask, revealing his rather unremarkable face, and promised that he was only there to help Jake get better and return to the ring. Finally, Jake calmed down and agreed not to get worked up anymore, so that he could finish the sessions and get back to action in the WWF. Dr. Schultz congratulated him and opened the door, allowing Jake to stomp into his office as the segment ended. (81%)

In the locker room, Jesse "The Body" Ventura interviewed Rick Martel and Slick, who promised that the Model would once again prove who the team captain of Strike Force was when Martel snaps Tito Santana in half tonight. Ventura then asked about "the laughable vow" that the Texas Twister made on Prime Time to avenge the injury to the Texas Tornado, blaming it on Martel. The Model and the Doctor Of Style chuckled amongst each other and said that if Kevin Von Erich wanted to end up in the hospital alongside his brother Kerry, he was knocking on the right door. (81%)

Tito Santana vs. "The Model" Rick Martel

Albert promised that we would see more of Jake Roberts' visits to Dr. Schultz in the weeks to come, while Slick escorted the Model to ringside. This was a well-worked contest, although the fans weren't as hot as expected, most likely due to Tito's stock dropping in the WWF over the last year or two. The advantage shifted back and forth, with Martel working on Santana's lower back throughout the contest, although Tito scored several near-falls. This led to Martel applying the Boston Crab on Santana, who struggled valiantly to reach the ropes, but was too far away and had to submit. Afterwards, the arrogant Model pranced and preened in celebration, much to Slick's delight. (72%)

Mean Gene Okerlund was in the locker room to interview Dino Bravo and Jimmy Hart, who announced that the Canadian Strongman would be challenging the Ultimate Warrior for the WWF Championship next week on Saturday Night's Main Event. Bravo beat his chest and (apparently) threatened the WWF Champion in French, but Okerlund reminded him that he still had to deal with Jim Duggan tonight. Jimmy jabbered about Canada's superiority to the United States in all aspects, and claimed that Bravo would prove that fact once more tonight against Hacksaw. (72%)

Dino Bravo vs. "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan

Jimmy Hart waved the Canadian flag as he accompanied his Canadian Strongman for this hard-hitting brawl, which WCW's Jim Ross might refer to as a "slobberknocker". The commentators hyped next week's Bravo/Warrior WWF Title match during this one. As expected, the favorite move in this match from both men was the closed fist, along with some slams and vertical suplexes. Duggan actually seemed to have the bout won after the Three Point Stance, but the Mouth Of The South hopped into the ring to break the count. Hacksaw clobbered Hart with a big roundhouse right, then got into position for the Three Point Stance, which knocked the Mouth out to the floor. By this time, Bravo had gotten up, and grabbed hold of Duggan before slamming him with the Side Suplex for the 1-2-3. Bravo left right after the bell, stopping at ringside to sling Hart over his shoulder and carry him up the aisle. (72%)

Following a commercial break, a new "more evil" version of the heavy metal Demolition theme blared throughout the arena as Ax led Smash & Crush down to the ring, where Vince McMahon was waiting with a microphone. Ax reminded fans of his challenge to the Legion Of Doom issued on Prime Time, and explained that Demolition were there to get their answer, so he called out "those two yellow-bellied mascara-wearing punks". Hawk & Animal strode down the aisle, game faces on, and climbed into the squared circle, where both facepainted tag teams sized each other up. Animal said that if Demolition wanted another "butt-kicking from the originals", they would be more than happy to do it, especially after what happened at Battle Lines. Hawk added that they'd be there on Monday and warned that Prime Time would be a "RRRRRRRUUUUUUUSSSSSSHHHHHHHH" for Crush & Smash. When the LOD went to leave, Demolition tried to jump them on the orders of Ax, but Animal & Hawk were ready, and a big brawl erupted. The four warriors slugged it out until a horde of WWF referees came down to break it up, as the commentators hyped the LOD/Demolition match for Prime Time this Monday. (71%)

Greg "The Hammer" Valentine vs. Bob Backlund

The Hammer came out alone, as Tenay explained that Jimmy Hart was still dazed from the beating he took from Jim Duggan earlier. This was a true old-school technical match-up between two of the WWF's premier ring veterans, each man working on a specific body part: Valentine punished the leg for his Hartbreaker figure-four leglock, while Backlund targeted the shoulder area in preparation for the Cross-Face Chicken-Wing. The commentators did a great job of putting over the effectiveness of both submission finishers, as Backlund and Valentine put on a real mat clinic, while also using stiff chops and forearms as well. After about 15 minutes of solid action, the Hammer was controlling the match and went to apply the Hartbreaker, but Backlund wrapped him up in a small package for the surprise three-count. The former WWF Champion exited victorious, while Valentine threw a temper tantrum. (75%)

Backstage, Dynamite Kid was chatting with Davey Boy Smith, who was warming up for his shot at Mr. Perfect's WWF Intercontinental Championship. Tenay suggested that Dynamite was giving some last-minute advice to his fellow British Bulldog, as the Kid just wrestled the Perfect One almost a month ago on Prime Time. Dynamite patted Smith on the back before he headed out for his match-up. (75%)

WWF Intercontinental Title Match: Mr. Perfect [champion] vs. Davey Boy Smith

The crowd was hot for this one, although it was not quite at the superb level of the Perfect/Dynamite contest from a few weeks ago, it was still a tremendous match-up, with Davey Boy showing that he still has the skills underneath his added muscle mass. Plenty of near-falls and athletic maneuvers, with both men at the top of their games, trading the advantage back-and-forth numerous times throughout the approximately 20-minute bout. In the end, Smith went for the Running Powerslam, but Perfect slipped out the back door, and when Smith turned around, the champion snared him in the Perfectplex for the winning pinfall. Afterwards, Perfect yelled to the camera that the same was in store for either Ricky Steamboat or the Ultimate Warrior if they ever wanted to get in the ring with him. (84%)

Mike Tenay and Marv Albert hyped Monday's Prime Time Wrestling, as well as next week's Saturday Night's Main Event, before wrapping up the show.

Overall: 75%

Rating: 6.45

Attendance: 6,549

Ticket Sales: $392,940

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SUNDAY, MARCH 3, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan introduced this week's program, announcing Demolition, Power & Glory, Jim Duggan, and the Rockers all in action tonight, plus Greg Valentine taking on Tito Santana, and in the main event, the Honky Tonk Man & Colonel Robert Fuller against the British Bulldogs.

"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan vs. Iron Mike Sharpe

Slow, plodding, semi-competitive squash, giving Heenan the opportunity to mock and insult Hacksaw for a good three minutes straight. Duggan finished Sharpe off with the Three Point Stance. (62%)

After the match, Mr. Fuji appeared in the aisle, clutching his cane in one hand and a microphone in the other. Jim Duggan looked on from the ring pointing at the Devious One, as Fuji challenged Hacksaw to meet a Mystery Opponent of Fuji's choosing at WWF March To WrestleMania. Duggan responded affirmatively, telling Fuji he had a deal. Fuji smiled and laughed before nodding and wobbling back through the curtains. (78%)

Sean Mooney was backstage with Power & Glory and Slick, who called Dustin Rhodes a "foolish little kid" for saying he wanted to "fight fire with fire". Paul Roma & Hercules tugged on Herc's steel chain, laughing as they warned the Rhodes Family that when you play with fire, "you might get burned!" (75%)

Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma) vs. Italian Stallion & Reno Riggins

The definition of "squash", as Herc & Romeo, with a gleeful Slick in their corner, absolutely massacred the Stallion, before forcing him to tag in a frightened Reno. After taking a beating, Roma pinned Riggins after the Powerplex. (58%)

Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. Duane Gill & Barry Hardy

Ax was clad in black pants and a black sweater, with his traditional facepaint, when he accompanied Crush & Smash to ringside. The commentators argued over Demolition's match with the Legion Of Doom tomorrow night on Prime Time Wrestling, while the facepainted demons massacred their opponents. Crush covered Gill following the Decapitation Elbow to end the slaughter. (62%)

After Demolition left the ring, Sean Mooney caught up with Ax, Smash, & Crush at ringside to ask them about their upcoming Prime Time match against the Legion Of Doom. Ax kept it short and sweet, barking about putting the "Demolition imitators" out of action, while Smash finished with his "kick yer stinkin' teeth in" catchphrase. (73%)

The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty) vs. Bob Bradley & Kevin Krueger

Competitive squash while Bradley was in the ring, but Krueger went down to the Double Flying Fistdrop, after which Jannetty scored the pin. (64%)

Backstage, Jimmy Hart was holding an icepack to his jaw, apologizing to Greg Valentine for not being at ringside for his match last night on Saturday Night's Main Event. The Hammer wasn't pleased, asking Hart what he pays him for, to which the Mouth Of The South promised to make it up to him. (67%)

Greg "The Hammer" Valentine vs. Tito Santana

Monsoon was pleased that Jimmy Hart had the icepack on his jaw because it meant that he wouldn't be jabbering through his megaphone, while Heenan called Gorilla a "sick, sick man". Another good old-school contest, with some interference from the Mouth Of The South, which allowed the Hammer to drop Santana with a kneebreaker, followed by the Hartbreaker. Santana tried to reverse it, but Valentine turned on the pressure, forcing Tito to submit. (71%)

Sean Mooney was in the locker room, interviewing the Honky Tonk Man & Colonel Robert Lee Fuller, who insulted Mooney as they engaged in their own personal mutual admiration society. They planned on adding the British Bulldogs to their "Greatest Hits" list...NEXT! (73%)

Honky Tonk Man & Colonel Robert Lee Fuller vs. The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith & Dynamite Kid)

Great tag team main event that saw the heels get in quite a bit of their underhanded offense, utilizing surprising quick tags in and out to cut the ring in half as they worked over Davey Boy, whom Monsoon put over for his performance last night against Mr. Perfect. Even Gorilla remarked at how well Fuller & Honky worked as a team, leading Heenan to predict that "Honkyland Promotions" had a bright future ahead of them. Eventually, Smith caught the Southerners with a double-clothesline and made the hot tag to Dynamite, who rushed in and cleaned house. Soon after, the Kid tagged Smith back in and went to the top turnbuckle as Davey Boy planted Honky with the Running Powerslam. Dynamite followed with the Diving Headbutt and blocked the Colonel from interfering as Davey Boy hooked the leg for the three-count. Monsoon and Heenan closed the program as the Bulldogs celebrated at ringside and the Colonel & Honky complained to referee Tim White. (82%)

Overall: 70%

Rating: 5.34

Attendance: 6,518

Ticket Sales: $391,080

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From now on, I'm not going to bother recapping Superstars, instead I will auto-book and post the ratings, etc. like I did in my WWE 2005 diary for Heat. Just assume that it's full of squashes with one or two midcard-level feature matches, while Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan exchange hilarious verbal barbs. God, I miss those days...

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, MARCH 4, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Prior to the opening montage, a video aired hyping tonight's main event pitting Demolition against the Legion Of Doom. It featured highlights of Ax & Smash winning their three WWF Tag Team Championships in 1988, 1989, and 1990, followed by clips of Smash & Crush dominating opponents later in 1990. Some ominous music began playing as footage from SummerSlam '90 was shown of Hawk & Animal distracting Demolition, causing them to lose the title to the Hart Foundation. The rest of their history together was shown, mostly the LOD beating Crush & Smash in tag and six-man matches, up until WWF Battle Lines, where Ax re-appeared and helped Demolition defeat the LOD, getting across the point that the Demos basically dominated the WWF tag team division until Animal & Hawk arrived on the scene, and now Demolition was regrouping to take back what was theirs. The segment finished with soundbites from both Ax, Smash, & Crush and Hawk & Animal. (83%)

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura introduced the show, running down tonight's lineup: a rematch between the Texas Twister and the Mountie, Dino Bravo in action, Tito Santana & Koko B. Ware taking on the Powers Of Pain, the Legion Of Doom battling Demolition in the main event, and more.

Dino Bravo vs. Rob Zakowski

Jimmy Hart accompanied the Canadian Strongman, again waving the Canadian flag, as the commentators hyped Bravo's shot at WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. A semi-competitive squash here, as Zakowski tried to knock the veteran off-balance with high-risk stuff, but Bravo basically shrugged it all off and planted the youngster with the Side Suplex for the win. (71%)

After the match, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Dino Bravo and Jimmy Hart at ringside regarding the upcoming WWF Championship match against the Ultimate Warrior. The Mouth Of The South claimed that Bravo was more powerful than Warrior and would crush "that musclebound geek", before the Canadian Strongman motioned to his waist and yelled something in French. (80%)

Powers Of Pain (Barbarian & Warlord) vs. Tito Santana & Koko B. Ware

The commentators brought up the Powers Of Pain and the British Bulldogs brawling out of sight during the eight-man tag team match at WWF Battle Lines, as Paul Ellering led his facepainted charges down the aisle. Sadly, this was just a glorified competitive squash to put over the 300-pound beasts, who manhandled their much smaller opponents throughout the contest. Santana did score a near-fall on the Barbarian after the Flying Forearm, but in the end, the Warlord covered the Bird Man following the End Of Days. (72%)

On the orders of Paul Ellering at ringside, the Powers Of Pain attacked Tito Santana when he was checking on Koko B. Ware, and slammed him with the End Of Days as well. Warlord & Barbarian continued to hammer their beaten opponents, until the British Bulldogs ran down and slugged it out with the POP. Dynamite Kid clotheslined the Barbarian over the top rope, while Davey Boy Smith did the same to the Warlord, although both Powers immediately scrambled to their feet on the floor and glared at the Bulldogs before leaving with Precious Paul, who promised not to forget what just happened. (65%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan welcomed viewers to the Prime Time studio, but Heenan said he was sick of greeting "the humanoids" every week ("Mondays are already bad enough, Monsoon") and introduced their first guests, Slick and "The Model" Rick Martel, who both looked very stylish as they entered the room and shook hands with the Brain, ignoring Gorilla. Heenan said it was nice to have somebody with class on the show, as opposed to "a redneck cowboy" like Kevin Von Erich last week. Martel snickered as Slick went on a fast-talking tirade insulting the Texas Twister, insinuating that the Von Erichs were a product of inter-species breeding with horses. The Model sneered when Monsoon called the Twister a great athlete, and said that he would put Kevin out of action just like he did to the Texas Tornado. In fact, Martel promised to do it next week on Prime Time if the Twister had the guts to show up. Monsoon suggested that the Von Erichs are always ready for a fight, and Martel just smiled. (77%)

Backstage at the arena, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Jimmy Hart and The Mountie, who was getting ready for his match against the Texas Twister. The Mouth Of The South said that Slick and Rick Martel's "testimony" was enough to convict the Twister on "animal abuse" charges, and tonight the Mountie would make him pay for his crimes. Mountie was also seething over Von Erich's pinfall on him in the tag team match at Battle Lines, and vowed revenge. (79%)

The Mountie vs. "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich

Jimmy Hart, still carrying the Canadian flag, seconded his corrupt law enforcer for this solid match-up that saw the more experienced (in WWF terms) Mountie control the pace, using some unique submission holds to wear down the Texan. The commentators hyped a Rick Martel/Kevin Von Erich match for next week, explaining that the Twister had gladly accepted the challenge from the Model backstage. This one came to an end when Von Erich nailed the Mountie with the spinning Twister Punch off the middle turnbuckle to garner the three-count. (72%)

A pre-recorded vignette aired of Jake "The Snake" Roberts and his masked psychiatrist Dr. Schultz, who kept repeating to Jake that not all people who wear masks are evil. When Jake disagreed and asked why anybody would wear a mask unless they had something to hide, Schultz explained that in some cultures, masks are ceremonial, while for others, it is an extension of their personality. In some cases, the reasons are much more tragic, as Schultz said he had some big "Jake The Snake" fans that he wanted Jake to meet. Jake looked puzzled but agreed, and the doctor opened the door, bringing in four small children wearing plastic facemasks. Schultz explained that the kids had all been involved in horrific fires and were patients of his, but that they loved watching the WWF, and Jake in particular. Although a little freaked out at first, Roberts warmed up to the kids, hugging them and signing autographs, promising to get them ringside seats the next time the WWF was in town. The segment finished with the Snake smiling and admitting that maybe masked people weren't all that bad. (91%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan discussed Jake Roberts' improving psychological condition, before introducing their next guests, Ted DiBiase & Virgil, wearing expensive suits and wide smiles. When they sat down, they proudly propped up the Million Dollar belt on the desk, drawing a disgusted sigh from Monsoon, who asked Virgil right away why he stabbed Roddy Piper in the back at Battle Lines. Virgil grinned as the Million Dollar Man explained that it was about "the almighty dollar", and that Hot Rod was a complete simpleton to think that DiBiase would let Virgil leave his employ just like that. He said he would do anything to get his Million Dollar belt back, and all it took was a big-time raise for Virgil, calling his lackey a smart man who learned everything he knows about business from DiBiase himself. Monsoon sarcastically asked Virgil how much his pride and self-worth cost, prompting a nasty glare from the muscular bodyguard while DiBiase said that it was none of Gorilla's business, and all that mattered was that he had the Million Dollar belt in his possession again, and both DiBiase and Virgil were happy. For the first time ever, Virgil spoke, looking directly into the camera and informing Piper that if he had a problem with what Virgil did, they could settle it at WWF March To WrestleMania, adding that he feels no remorse because he didn't see the Rowdy Scot offering any money to help take care of his family back home. The Million Dollar Man laughed and ended the interview with his "Everybody has a price" catchphrase, before he and Virgil walked off with the Million Dollar belt. (78%)

Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal)

Ax marched out in black pants, black sweater, and facepaint with his fellow Demolition members, acting as a barking, hard-nosed coach at ringside during this titanic clash, which McMahon referred to as a "tag team dream match". One of the best pure power brawling encounters seen in a while, both teams traded the advantage back and forth, with Ax interfering on more than one occasion to turn the tide in Demolition's favor. The LOD looked strong, as Ventura suggested that perhaps they were trying to not only win the match, but send a message to former manager Paul Ellering. Near the end, Animal & Hawk were building momentum, knocking Crush over the top rope with a double clothesline and then charging at Smash with a double leaping shoulderblock. However, Smash dropped to the canvas and the LOD ended up crashing into referee Joey Marella, flooring him. Ignoring the ref, the LOD went after Smash, slamming him with a double Gorilla Press, after which Animal hoisted him up on his shoulders while Hawk went to the top turnbuckle. Before they could trigger the Doomsday Device, though, Ax had grabbed a metal folding chair from ringside and whacked Hawk with it, knocking him off the top all the way down to the floor. Meanwhile, as Animal still had Smash up on his immense shoulders, Crush returned to the ring and speared Animal from behind, driving his shoulder into the small of his back and freeing Smash. Crush then scooped up Animal and viciously dropped him across his knee with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker as Smash went to the middle turnbuckle and dove off with the Decapitation Elbow. Smash covered Animal while Crush and Ax revived the official, who came-to long enough to register the 1-2-3. Afterwards, Ax joined Crush & Smash in a three-on-one thrashing of Animal in the ring while Hawk was still laid out on the floor at ringside. (84%)

Vince McMahon and Jesse Ventura wrapped up the show hyping the Ultimate Warrior's WWF Title defense against Dino Bravo this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event.

Overall: 78%

Rating: 6.09

Attendance: 6,547

Ticket Sales: $392,820

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SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay kicked off the live network broadcast, shilling tonight's main event WWF Championship bout featuring Dino Bravo challenging the Ultimate Warrior, as well as the Texas Twister taking on the Honky Tonk Man, the Rhodes Family against the Nasty Boys, and the British Bulldogs and Jim Duggan in action.

"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan vs. The Black Phantom

Semi-competitive squash, allowing the commentators to talk about Mr. Fuji's challenge to Duggan last week on Superstars. Tenay said that the "Mystery Opponent" at WWF March To WrestleMania could be anybody, as Japan is full of fantastic athletes, adding that Fuji has talent scouts around the world, so the opponent might not even be from the Land of the Rising Sun. Albert suggested that it could even be somebody already in the WWF, and announced that Fuji would be in the Prime Time Wrestling studio this Monday for a special interview. Hacksaw put the masked Phantom away with the Three Point Stance. (64%)

Mean Gene Okerlund came out to interview Jim Duggan at ringside after the match, asking him if he was worried about Mr. Fuji's "Mystery Opponent" at March To WrestleMania. The patriotic American responded that "ol' Hacksaw don't worry about nothin'" and promised to show the mystery man "a good ol' fashioned 100% U.S.A.-grade butt-kicking...TOUGH GUY! HOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" (81%)

A vignette aired, showing "The King" Jerry Lawler in his trophy room at home, admiring his vast collection of championship belts, awards, trophies, medals, press clippings, and more. The King said this was his favorite room in his "palatial estate", as it reminds him of all the great things he has achieved in his lifetime. However, he explained that this room can also be very scary for potential opponents, knowing of his amazing accomplishments throughout his career. The King then wondered if it was a coincidence that once he finally arrived in the WWF, Hulk Hogan announced that he was considering retiring to Hollywood. Lawler claimed that the Hulkster has been "reigning" over the WWF as a "false monarch" for years, but has apparently realized that, now that "the one true King" is invading the WWF, there was nothing left for him in the ring except humiliation and embarrassment at the hands of the King. Lawler sat down in his throne, looking out a window, as he warned that if Hogan decided to return to the WWF, the King would have the "so-called Immortal" hung, drawn, and quartered, just like any other peasant who dared defy royalty. (81%)

Backstage in the arena, the Honky Tonk Man was seated at a table, reading what appeared to be a contract as Colonel Robert Lee Fuller stood behind him, thumbs tucked in his lapels with a big Southern grin stretched across his face. Honky seemed happy with the contract and signed it before passing it to the Colonel, who told the Greatest Intercontinental Champion Of All Time to prepare for "the marketing blitz of a lifetime". They laughed and shook hands before heading out. (80%)

Honky Tonk Man vs. "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich

Colonel Robert Lee Fuller escorted the Honky Tonk Man down to the ring, the unidentified but freshly-signed contract proudly protruding from the Colonel's pocket. The commentators hyped the Texas Twister's match with Rick Martel this Monday on Prime Time, as this solid bout took place, Honky Tonk controlling Von Erich by any means necessary, legal or illegal. The tide turned when Honky got too cocky, dancing and pointing at the Colonel at ringside, which allowed Von Erich to mount a comeback. This took the Elvis impersonator by surprise, and led to Von Erich nailing the Twister Punch on Honky, followed by the victory. Afterwards, Honky Tonk and the Colonel complained to referee Mark Johnson, while Albert and Tenay suggested that Honky was too wrapped up in his new business venture to concentrate on wrestling. (74%)

After a commercial break, Vince McMahon was on the old interview platform holding a microphone as he introduced Paul Ellering and the Powers Of Pain, who joined him on the platform. Precious Paul was irate at the way that the British Bulldogs were allowed to run rampant in the WWF, attacking Barbarian & Warlord "from behind" on Prime Time, just because they are fan favorites. McMahon stated that Dynamite & Davey Boy were just rescuing Koko B. Ware & Tito Santana, which Ellering scoffed at, accusing the interviewer of making up excuses for the bad behavior of "those mutts". Ellering said that if the Bulldogs wanted to be men, stand on two feet instead of four paws, and meet his Powers face-to-face, they would be more than happy to "housetrain" them at WWF March To WrestleMania. Ellering then told McMahon to take a hike and get them some chairs so that they could watch the Bulldogs in action. Three folding chairs were produced and Paul, Warlord, & Barbarian sat on the platform, facing the ring. (80%)

The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith & Dynamite Kid) vs. Brooklyn Brawler & Iron Mike Sharpe

The Powers Of Pain and Paul Ellering watched on from the interview stage, as the Bulldogs engaged in a surprisingly competitive little contest with the two WWF veterans. Albert blamed it on the presence of Barbarian, Warlord, & Precious Paul distracting the former WWF Tag Team Champions, while Tenay referred to Sharpe & Brawler as underrated athletes in their own right. The end came when Dynamite pinned the Brawler with the Diving Headbutt following the Running Powerslam from Davey Boy. Afterwards, the Bulldogs looked out across the crowd at Paul and the Powers and nodded yes, which the commentators interpreted as accepting the challenge for March To WrestleMania. (70%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed the Nasty Boys, who explained that Jimmy Hart wasn't with them tonight because he was preparing Dino Bravo for his WWF Title shot later. Knobbs & Saggs publicly wished the Canadian Strongman luck against the Ultimate Warrior, before Okerlund asked them about the Bushwhackers' challenge from last week to a "New Zealand Rules" match at WWF March To WrestleMania. The Nasties admitted that they had no clue what "New Zealand Rules" were, but that it didn't matter because there was no place tougher and grittier than the streets of Allentown, PA, where they grew up. They officially accepted the challenge and told the Hart Foundation to watch and see what they were in for in April at WrestleMania VII, and also to stay tuned tonight to watch them "Nastify" the Rhodes Family. (74%)

The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs) vs. Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes)

The Rhodes Family got a great pop from the fans, while the Nasties were booed even without Jimmy Hart. As one might expect, this was basically a brawl, although Dustin used his superior speed and agility to outmaneuver both Saggs & Knobbs on several occasions. Power & Glory and Slick showed up mid-match on the interview stage, taking the empty seats left by the Powers Of Pain and Paul Ellering earlier, which seemed to distract Dustin, who had been building momentum. Dusty hollered for his son to ignore them and pay attention to the match, but the young rookie didn't listen and fell victim to the Pit Stop Drop. Saggs covered Dustin for the 1-2-3 while Knobbs blocked Dusty from breaking the count. Slick, Paul Roma, & Hercules all laughed from the platform as the American Dream checked on his son after the Nasties left. (77%)

Jesse "The Body" Ventura was in the locker room alongside Dino Bravo and Jimmy Hart, who commended his Nasty Boys on their victory without him and promised that the Canadian Strongman would make it two-for-two tonight by winning the WWF Championship from the Ultimate Warrior. Bravo yelled in French and began doing bodybuilding poses, as Ventura squeezed Bravo's muscles and declared, "I smell title change!" (80%)

WWF Championship Match: Ultimate Warrior [champion] vs. Dino Bravo

Jimmy Hart carried his megaphone as well as the Canadian flag when he emerged alongside the challenger, as Tenay reminded viewers that Bravo came very close to winning the WWF Intercontinental Championship from the Warrior many times during their feud in 1989, suggesting that now with even more experience, the Canadian Strongman might pull off the upset "for the richest prize in all of professional wrestling" tonight. This was the definition of "power vs. power", as both hulks tore into each other like wild rhinos, exchanging sledgehammer-like blows. Bravo gained the advantage thanks to a well-timed flagpole shot from the Mouth Of The South at ringside, which led to Bravo working on the Warrior's lower back, softening him up for the Side Suplex with backbreakers, suplexes, and bodyslams, before cinching in the dreaded bearhug. Warrior seemed to be fading as referee Earl Hebner let his arm drop twice, but on the third try, the WWF Champion raised his arm and began shaking. The fans rallied behind the Warrior as he used his immense strength to break the bearhug and unleashed clothesline after clothesline on the Canadian Strongman. The flying shoulderblock off the ropes was next, followed by the impressive Gorilla Press, and he capped it off with the big splash across the back. Warrior flipped Bravo over and earned the three-count, completing another successful defense of the WWF Championship. The Warrior celebrated his hard-fought victory as Albert and Tenay signed off. (81%)

Overall: 76%

Rating: 6.49

Attendance: 6,534

Ticket Sales: $392,040

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SUNDAY, MARCH 10, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING

Booker: Gerald Brisco (Road Agent)

Quality: 73%

Rating: 5.02

Attendance: 6,506

Ticket Sales: $390,360

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Here's the card so far for WWF March To WrestleMania on Sunday, March 31...

New Zealand Rules Match: The Bushwhackers vs. The Nasty Boys

The British Bulldogs vs. Powers Of Pain

Jim Duggan vs. Mr. Fuji's Mystery Opponent

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, MARCH 11, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura kicked things off LIVE from ringside hyping tonight's program, including Rick Martel facing the Texas Twister, the Hart Foundation defending the WWF Tag Team Championship against the Conquistadors, the Big Boss Man in action, Dino Bravo locking up with Ricky Steamboat in the main event, and more.

Big Boss Man vs. Iron Mike Sharpe

Semi-competitive squash, during which McMahon announced that Hawk of the Legion Of Doom was injured last week when he fell from the top turnbuckle to the floor, so Animal would be taking on Demolition's Smash one-on-one this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. As for this bout, the big Georgian put Iron Mike away with the Boss Man Slam. (65%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan bickered briefly before introducing their first guest, Mr. Fuji, who wobbled out with his cane and sat beside the Brain. Monsoon brought up the issues between Fuji and Jim Duggan over the last couple of months, asking what the Japanese manager has against Hacksaw. In his usual broken English (although improved, thankfully, maybe to utilize the Devious One better) Fuji explained that Hacksaw is the embodiment of the United States, and in Fuji's opinion, he represents everything that is wrong with America, calling Duggan fat, lazy, and ignorant of other cultures, like most Americans. Fuji claimed that by destroying Duggan, he could destroy the wills and spirits of all of "Duggan-San's fat, lazy, ignorant, American fans" and bring Old Glory crashing down. Monsoon inquired as to the identity of Fuji's "hired gun" for WWF March To WrestleMania, but the Devious One just grinned and told Gorilla he would find out on March 31 just like Hacksaw. (73%)

WWF Tag Team Title Match: The Hart Foundation (Bret "Hit Man" Hart & Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart) [champions] vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

Ventura sounded very insulted as he asked how in the world the Conquistadors earned a Tag Team Title shot, but McMahon explained that the Hart Foundation were fighting champions and would defend their belts against any tag team. They also discussed the Nasty Boys' "New Zealand Rules" match with the Bushwhackers at WWF March To WrestleMania, and the scheduled Nasties/Harts championship bout for WrestleMania VII. This was surprisingly competitive, with the masked Central Americans stepping up their game and getting a couple of near-falls, but it came to an end when the Anvil covered #1 following the Hart Attack. (74%)

Back in the studio, Bobby Heenan called the Hart Foundation "weak champions" for defending against teams like the Conquistadors and said that they're lucky he wasn't managing anymore, before Gorilla Monsoon brought in their next guest, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, wearing his "Hot Rod" t-shirt and a kilt. Piper did not seem to be his babyface "happy-go-lucky" self as Monsoon villified Virgil for stabbing the Rowdy Scot in the back at WWF Battle Lines, then asked Piper what went through his mind when it happened. Piper said "nothing", because one minute he had Ted DiBiase locked in the Sleeperhold, and the next minute, his own lights were turned out. He recalled waking up with a massive headache after the bell rang and seeing Virgil at ringside, holding the Million Dollar belt and helping the Million Dollar Man up the aisle, and wondered what had happened. Piper said he became enraged when he got back to the locker room and "the boys" told him how Virgil had blasted him across the skull with the "faux championship" belt, allowing DiBiase to pin him. At first, he didn't want to believe it, but when he saw the tape of the match, he realized what kind of "bottom-dwelling scum" Virgil really was, and took his anger out on some "defenseless lockers and chairs". At this point in the interview, Hot Rod hopped out of his seat and climbed up on the desk, offending the Brain, as he stared directly into the camera. Looking deadly serious, Piper told Virgil that if he meant what he said about "settling things" at WWF March To WrestleMania, he could consider his challenge accepted, and promised to "beat some sense" into the Million Dollar Lackey at the PPV. (94%)

"The Model" Rick Martel vs. "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich

Slick looked pretty confident when he escorted the Model out for this heated contest, which saw the Texas Twister go after Martel with reckless abandon as the commentators brought up Martel putting the Texas Tornado out of action a couple of months ago. Martel used his experience advantage to weather the storm (no pun intended) and took control, but Von Erich eventually made his comeback, and even managed to whallop the Model with the Twister Punch. When he went for the pin, Slick ran in and began kicking the Twister, drawing a disqualification from referee Tim White. (74%)

The Texas Twister no-sold Slick's kicks, and after the bell rang, got up and grabbed the Doctor Of Style by the lapels and drove him back into a corner. As Von Erich wound up for a punch, Power & Glory charged into the ring and blindsided him. Hercules dragged Von Erich off of his beanpole-like manager and pounded him with forearms before holding the Twister's arms behind him as Paul Roma ran off the ropes and leapt in the air, smashing the Twister in the face with Herc's steel chain wrapped around his fist. Rick Martel got to his feet and joined his fellow "Beautiful People" in stomping a mudhole in the Texan. (71%)

After a couple of minutes of Rick Martel and Power & Glory beating Kevin Von Erich down while Slick encouraged them, the crowd popped as the Rhodes Family charged down the aisle in their street clothes. Dusty & Dustin hit the ring and dished out Bionic Elbows for the Model, Hercules, & Paul Roma, driving them out of the squared circle, leaving Slick all by himself. The fans cheered as the American Dream pointed at the Doctor Of Style, who was soon dropped by a Double Bionic Elbow from the Rhodes Family. With the heels disposed of, father and son checked on the unconscious Texas Twister. (75%)

Another Jake "The Snake" Roberts vignette aired, showing a slightly more relaxed Snake with his masked psychiatrist Dr. Schultz in the doctor's office. They were discussing Jake's vision problems dating back to last year when Rick Martel sprayed him in the eyes with Arrogance cologne, including his feelings of anger and revenge toward the Model. Dr. Schultz suggested that there might be some lingering vision difficulties contributing to his acute paranoia and advised Jake to get a second and third opinion on his eyes. The doctor asked Jake if he had done his therapy homework, and they went through an exercise designed to lessen his delusional feelings. Schultz seemed extremely pleased with Jake's progress and gave a "best-case scenario" of a couple more weeks of therapy before he will recommend his reinstatement into the WWF. Roberts grinned and shook hands with Dr. Schultz, thanking him for all of his help. (91%)

Dino Bravo vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat

The Canadian flag waving Jimmy Hart accompanied his Canadian Strongman as the commentators put Bravo over for his tremendous effort against WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior this past weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. The Dragon came out to a great pop while Ventura reminded viewers that Steamboat eliminated Bravo from this year's Royal Rumble, so there could be a revenge factor in this great main event, which saw the brawny Quebecer overpower the former WWF Intercontinental Champion for a majority of the contest. Steamboat had a few hope spots, but Bravo kept regaining the advantage and eventually planted the Dragon with the Side Suplex. Surprisingly, Steamboat kicked out and proceeded to mount a comeback, chopping away at the burly chest of the Canadian Strongman, flooring him with a beautiful standing dropkick before climbing to the top turnbuckle and waiting on Bravo. Once Bravo got back up, the Dragon dove with the Reign Of Fire to score the three-count. Afterwards, Bravo tried a revenge attack, but Steamboat dodged it and knocked the Canadian over the top rope with a perfect savate kick. (83%)

As Ricky Steamboat celebrated in mid-ring, WWF Intercontinental Champion Mr. Perfect sprinted out past the departing Dino Bravo and attacked the Dragon from behind. Perfect knocked Steamboat to the canvas and began stomping and kicking him as the boos from the crowd suddenly turned into a huge pop when the Ultimate Warrior rushed down the aisle. The WWF Champion pulled Perfect off of Steamboat and unleashed a series of right hands on the Intercontinental Champion before signaling for a clothesline and running into the ropes. However, Randy Savage was waiting at ringside and tripped up the Warrior, allowing Perfect to move in with a nasty kneelift. Perfect hammered Warrior with forearms, then held him open as the Macho Man came off the top turnbuckle with a flying double-axhandle. Savage and Perfect laid into Warrior with kicks until Steamboat dragged himself to his feet and went after both heels, as a bevy of WWF officials hit the ring to try and break up the brawl. Warrior got up as well and the four-way brawl continued as the show went to commercial. (93%)

Following the short break, Mr. Perfect, Ricky Steamboat, Randy Savage, and the Ultimate Warrior were still all trying to get at each other, pushing and shoving WWF officials out of their way. This continued until a booming voice could be heard throughout the arena telling them to cut it out, which was the voice of WWF President Andre The Giant, who emerged from behind the curtain carrying a microphone as the four superstars turned to look up the aisle. The President said that he could see how badly they all wanted to wrestle each other, so he announced that the main event for WWF March To WrestleMania would be a tag team match pitting Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect against the Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat. McMahon and Ventura approved of the decision, and the show faded out on a shot of Andre's big, smiling face in the aisleway as he nodded toward the competitors in the ring. (86%)

Overall: 80%

Rating: 6.02

Attendance: 6,546

Ticket Sales: $392,760

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SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay opened the live network broadcast, shilling the recently announced main event for WWF March To WrestleMania featuring the Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat against Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect, before going on to hype tonight's lineup: Shawn Michaels taking on the Macho Man in the main event, Smash battling Animal, Slick and his Jive Soul Bros on "The Brother Love Show", Bob Backlund in action, and Virgil meeting Tito Santana.

Tenay informed viewers that a limousine had pulled up just before the program went on the air, and the footage was shown. A long black stretch limousine drove up outside the arena and the door opened as the camera zoomed in on the occupant's feet. As the man got out and stood up, the camera panned up, revealing none other than the bulbous, robed form of "Playboy" Buddy Rose, clutching a box of his "Blow Away" diet powder. He took a big bite of a huge submarine sandwich and smiled before heading into the building. (71%)

Bob Backlund vs. "Playboy" Buddy Rose

Backlund had entered the ring when the limo footage was being shown, and Tenay chuckled over the return of the Playboy, telling Albert about the infamous Blow Away Diet Powder "commercials" that the 300-pound slob once advertised on WWF TV. Rose wore his silk bathrobe down to the ring and began to seductively peel it off of his flabby body before locking up with Backlund, who asserted himself early on with his amateur style. Rose did get some offense in, but the former WWF Champion wrapped him up for the 1-2-3 in a lateral guillotine following the atomic drop. Afterwards, the Playboy chowed down on his sub on the way up the aisle. (68%)

Jesse "The Body" Ventura was backstage along with Virgil and Ted DiBiase, who bragged about regaining his Million Dollar belt from Roddy Piper. The Million Dollar Man warned that Hot Rod had better be watching Virgil's "warm-up" tonight against Tito Santana to see what he was in for at WWF March To WrestleMania. DiBiase patted Virgil on his broad shoulders and reminded Ventura that "everybody's got a price" as they headed out. (84%)

Tito Santana vs. Virgil

Ted DiBiase accompanied his Million Dollar Lackey as the commentators mentioned that it seemed DiBiase and Virgil might be taking Tito Santana lightly. This was a solid bout, Virgil wearing wrestling attire similar to that of his boss and showing some surprising skill against the former WWF Intercontinental Champion, who got in several near-falls. The Million Dollar Man distracted Santana long enough for Virgil to sneak in and apply the Million Dollar Dream, taking Santana down to the mat and adding bodyscissors. Soon, referee Mark Johnson dropped Tito's arm three times, signaling the submission win for Virgil. DiBiase climbed in and shoved a $100 bill in the unconscious Santana's mouth before raising Virgil's muscular arm as he talked trash to Roddy Piper. (69%)

Brother Love was on the set of "The Brother Love Show", espousing his "loooove" for all of the WWF fans, before introducing a man who he claimed has "spread a lot of looooove" in his lifetime, Slick, along with Rick Martel, Hercules, & Paul Roma. Love brought up the Rhodes Family saving the Texas Twister from Slick's boys on Prime Time, saying that it didn't show "a whole lot of loooooove" for Dusty & Dustin to attack them from behind. Of course, Slick agreed and said he was sick and tired of "that redneck inbred family" interfering in Power & Glory's business, and now that they put their hands on the Doctor Of Style and assaulted the Model as well, it has gone too far. Martel angrily added that the Bionic Elbows almost messed up his pretty face, and that's the last straw for him. Power & Glory comforted the Model and said that nobody puts their hands on their manager, threatening to do "some real damage" to the Rhodes Family now. Slick explained that if both Kevin Von Erich and the Rhodes Family wanted a piece of his "Beautiful People", then they should accept his challenge to a six-man tag team match at WWF March To WrestleMania to settle their differences. Roma, Hercules, & Martel all nodded and reiterated the challenge before leaving with Slick. (80%)

Footage was shown from "Moments Ago" of Randy Savage assaulting Marty Jannetty from behind in the backstage area. The Macho Man snuck up and nailed the Rocker with a double-axhandle between the shoulderblades, then grabbed him by the hair and rammed him head-first several times against a row of lockers. Savage finished his attack with a nasty chairshot across the forehead. Tenay explained that Savage must have been worried about Jannetty interfering in his match with Shawn Michaels later, but that this was totally uncalled for. (80%)

Elsewhere, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Animal in a locker room. The Legion Of Doom member said that Hawk was hurt in the match against Demolition a couple of weeks ago due to the interference of Ax, but that he would be all healed up in time for WWF March To WrestleMania, issuing a challenge to all three members of Demolition for a handicap match against the LOD at the PPV. Animal roared that he knew they would be at a disadvantage, but that the LOD has never backed down from their enemies, no matter what the odds. He ended the interview vowing to kick Smash's butt tonight. (77%)

Smash vs. Animal

Ax and Crush both came out with Smash, but referee Tim White stopped Crush and sent him back to the showers as Tenay endorsed the decision, explaining that Crush did not have a manager's license, unlike Ax. A true power match, with Animal grappling with even more intensity as he took out a measure of revenge on Smash, beating him around the ring until Smash snuck in a thumb to the eye and established some heavy offense. They continued to clash back-and-forth, each man trying to outmuscle the other, until Ax got involved, tripping up Animal as he ran into the ropes. When Animal turned to yell at Ax, Smash charged over with a knee to the back, then used Animal's momentum from hitting the ropes chest-first to roll him up with a handful of tights to score the three-count. (78%)

After the match, Animal did his best to try and fight off Ax & Smash, having moderate success until Crush ran down to join the party, catching the Legion Of Doom member across the back of the neck with a double-axhandle. The three members of Demolition proceeded to dismantle Animal with sadistic glee until finally the British Bulldogs sprinted out to make the save, chasing off Demolition. On their way up the aisle, Ax barked to the camera that Demolition accepted Animal's challenge to a handicap match at WWF March To WrestleMania. (75%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Shawn Michaels, who showed more emotion cutting this promo than he has ever before in his career. Michaels was incensed at Randy Savage's vicious assault on his partner Marty Jannetty earlier and planned to avenge his fellow Rocker tonight by picking apart the Macho Man and showing the world exactly what a Rocker can do if he is pushed far enough. (80%)

Shawn Michaels vs. "Macho Man" Randy Savage

This one started off fast and furious, with Michaels entering first but not staying there long, as he went after the Macho Man in the aisle when he was introduced. They traded fists in the aisleway, but Savage grabbed the advantage with a knee to the gut before slamming the Rocker head-first against the iron guardrail and dragging him into the ring. This was an incredible main event that really showcased the talent of young Shawn Michaels as he fought back with his innovative high-risk offense, keeping Savage on his toes throughout the contest. The crowd was hot, popping for every near-fall and booing heavily whenever Savage reasserted himself. Eventually, Shawn knocked the former WWF Champion down with a beautiful superkick and went to the top turnbuckle, but missed the Flying Fistdrop. Savage quickly scampered up to the top, diving off with the Flying Elbowdrop to pick up the victory. Afterwards, Savage looked down at Michaels with a hint of respect, but then shook his head as if to clear these thoughts from his mind. The Macho Man stood with one foot on the Rocker's chest, motioning around his waist for the Ultimate Warrior's WWF Championship, while Albert and Tenay signed off, hyping WWF March To WrestleMania's tag team main event. (87%)

Overall: 78%

Rating: 6.44

Attendance: 6,511

Ticket Sales: $390,660

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SUNDAY, MARCH 17, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING

Booker: Pat Patterson (Road Agent)

Quality: 70%

Rating: 5.34

Attendance: 6,523

Ticket Sales: $391,380

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During the Superstars taping, Kato of the Orient Express suffered a minor arm injury in a tag team match against the Bushwhackers. He should return within the next couple of months. This is not a good year to be a member of the Orient Express, as Kato joins former partner Tanaka on the disabled list.

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For your viewing pleasure, here is the updated card for WWF March To WrestleMania on Sunday, March 31...

Main Event: Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat vs. Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect

New Zealand Rules Match: The Bushwhackers vs. The Nasty Boys

Handicap Match: Legion Of Doom vs. Demolition

Six-Man Tag Team Match: Rhodes Family & Kevin Von Erich vs. Power & Glory & Rick Martel

Roddy Piper vs. Virgil

The British Bulldogs vs. Powers Of Pain

Jim Duggan vs. Mr. Fuji's Mystery Opponent

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, MARCH 18, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura introduced tonight's show, including the Honky Tonk Man facing Roddy Piper, Animal taking on the Conquistadors in a handicap match, Slick's Beautiful People in six-man action, and the huge main event featuring Dino Bravo & The Mountie against the Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat.

Big Boss Man vs. "Playboy" Buddy Rose

The Playboy tried to sell his Blow Away diet plan to the Boss Man, but the former corrections officer knocked the box out of his hands and went right to work on the chunky Rose, as the commentators hyped the Boss Man meeting Virgil this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. This semi-competitive squash came to an end courtesy of an impressive Boss Man Slam on the bulbous Playboy. (68%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan discussed WWF March To WrestleMania, particularly the New Zealand Rules match between the Bushwhackers and the Nasty Boys. They argued over what "New Zealand Rules" actually meant, before deciding to bring in Luke & Butch themselves. The Bushwhackers marched in wearing the usual, doing their goofy walk around the studio, stopping only to threaten the Brain with some head-licking, but they decided against it because "weasels don't taste too good, mate!" The Bushwhackers finally sat down and cracked open a can of sardines, sloppily eating while Monsoon asked about their month-long lay-off after the Nasty Boys attacked them prior to the Royal Rumble. Luke & Butch explained that they went back home to New Zealand for the "three R's": rest, recuperate, and "rassle", but since they were the toughest blokes on the island, they had to fight each other, pointing out some new scars they had given each other during this time. Heenan called them idiots and inquired about the "New Zealand Rules" for the upcoming PPV match. Butch told him that they wouldn't be letting the cat out of the bag just yet, while Luke announced that the Nasty Boys and everybody else could find out what "New Zealand Rules" were all about next week on Prime Time. The Bushwhackers then got up and marched around the desk over to Heenan, who became the unhappy victim of a vigorous head-licking from the zany New Zealanders. They spit afterwards and swallowed some more sardines to "get rid of that Weasel taste" before marching out of the studio. (68%)

Six-Man Tag Team Match: Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma) & "The Model" Rick Martel vs. Louie Spicolli/Scott Taylor/Rob Zakowski

Slick looked very pleased with himself when he escorted his arrogant trio to the ring, as the commentators hyped their six-man match at WWF March To WrestleMania against the Rhodes Family & Kevin Von Erich. The Model, Romeo, & Herc worked very fluidly together, making quick tags and punishing their opponents with double and triple-team maneuvers. After some brief offense from the preliminary squad, Slick's boys took it home when Taylor submitted to Martel's Boston Crab, which was preceded by the Powerplex from Power & Glory. (67%)

Jake "The Snake" Roberts appeared in another vignette in the psychiatrist's office with the masked Dr. Schultz, who was speaking about fear. Jake said that he thought he knew all about fear, how to control his own and manipulate the base fears of others, but admitted that he has learned a lot over the course of his sessions with Schultz. Schultz pinpointed Jake's fear manipulation, combined with his weeks of living with sudden blindness last year, as a possible cause of what he called "prosoponophobia" - the fear of masks. The doctor advised Jake to adopt a new mindset, which he was accomplishing with his therapy homework, and said that would help him very much in his quest to be cured. At that point, the doctor said, the "masked man" hallucinations should dissipate and Roberts will be back to his winning ways in the WWF. (84%)

Back at the arena, Mean Gene Okerlund was in the locker room interviewing Jimmy Hart, The Mountie, & Dino Bravo regarding the match later with the Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat. The Mouth Of The South boasted that Bravo had taken both the WWF Champion and the Dragon to the limit in singles matches over the last couple of weeks, and that experience, along with the "international law enforcement" skills of the ruthless Mountie, would bring Les Canadiens to tag team victory tonight. (76%)

Handicap Match: Animal vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

McMahon wished a speedy recovery to Hawk and hoped that he would indeed be ready to go for the 2-on-3 handicap match at WWF March To WrestleMania against Ax, Smash, & Crush of Demolition. Animal looked impressive here, manhandling both of the masked Latin Americans with press slams and clotheslines for the most part, although they did get in a flurry of offense before the Legion Of Doom member reasserted his dominance. Animal finished both Conquistadors off with a double flying shoulderblock from the middle turnbuckle, covering both men simultaneously for the 1-2-3. (66%)

In the studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan went through some more of the WWF March To WrestleMania card, including the Powers Of Pain against the British Bulldogs, before bringing in Dynamite Kid & Davey Boy Smith as their guests. Monsoon started off by congratulating Dynamite on such a triumphant return to the WWF, noting that he hasn't lost a step. Dynamite thanked him and talked about the long recovery process from his severe back injury, which took him about two years, but said that he feels better than ever now. He jokingly asked Davey Boy where he was over those two years, but then laughed, as the Brain interrupted to ask about their pet bulldog, Matilda, who tortured Heenan during the Bulldogs' last WWF stint. They said that Matilda was happily enjoying her "retirement" at home, to which Heenan suggested that they would need a whole kennel full of vicious hounds by their side when they take on the Powers Of Pain. Davey Boy admitted that the Powers were dangerous, especially with Paul Ellering in their corner, but broke it down by saying that he was more powerful than the Warlord, and Dynamite was quicker than the Barbarian. Monsoon announced that they would have their chance to prove those statements in singles matches first, when Smith meets Warlord on Saturday Night's Main Event, while the Kid will tangle with Barbarian next week on Prime Time. Kid claimed that they were used to wrestling larger men and promised to take a bite out of the competition. (72%)

Sean Mooney, back at the arena, was standing by in the locker room alongside the Honky Tonk Man and Colonel Robert Lee Fuller, who were preparing for Honky's match against Roddy Piper. They spent most of the interview teasing and mocking Mooney, but said that Hot Rod was "just another guy in a dress" destined to be added to Honkyland's Walk Of Shame. (81%)

Honky Tonk Man vs. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper

Colonel Robert Lee Fuller seconded the Greatest Intercontinental Champion Of All Time, for this solid bout, which the crowd got into, jeering Honky Tonk while popping for Hot Rod. This one was out of control, with both men employing dirty tactics to get ahead, trading the advantage numerous times while the commentators discussed the business contract Honky signed with Fuller recently, as well as Piper's upcoming match with Virgil at WWF March To WrestleMania. The Colonel's interference allowed Honky to gain control, wearing down the Rowdy Scot with a front-facelock before attempting the Shake, Rattle, & Roll neckbreaker. Piper countered the finisher by swinging all the way with it and trapping Honky in a backslide for a very close near-fall. The Colonel jumped up on the apron as both Piper and Honky got to their feet, trying to get involved, but Hot Rod grabbed Honky and Fuller by the hair and cracked their heads together. Fuller fell to the floor while Honky staggered back into the Sleeperhold from Piper, earning the victory for the Scotsman three drops of the arm later. McMahon noted Piper's "even more crazed than usual" demeanor and warned that Ted DiBiase and Virgil could be in some serious trouble. (79%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat, who were looking forward to honing their tag team skills tonight against Les Canadiens in preparation for their WWF March To WrestleMania bout with Mr. Perfect & Randy Savage. They admitted that they had almost no experience as a tag team, but predicted that the fire of the Dragon combined with the force of the Warrior would be enough to overcome their foes. (91%)

Les Canadiens (Dino Bravo & The Mountie) vs. Ultimate Warrior & Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat

Jimmy Hart proudly waved the Canadian flag as he led Les Canadiens down the aisle to a round of boos. As expected, their opponents each received a deafening pop upon their individual entrances, and this hot tag team main event got off to a rocking start, with the WWF Champion starting for his team and cutting down both Canadiens with a salvo of heavy clotheslines. The faces kept the advantage as the Dragon was tagged in and went to work on the Mountie, who eventually took control after a well-timed distraction from the Mouth Of The South at ringside. Les Canadiens assumed dominance with quick tags in and out, working like a well-oiled machine as they wore Steamboat down using power-based offense and double-team maneuvers. Steamboat kept kicking out, frustrating Hart, who jabbered through his megaphone for Bravo & Mountie to put the former WWF Intercontinental Champion away. Bravo tagged out to the Mountie, who climbed to the top turnbuckle as his partner held Steamboat up in a bearhug. Mountie came off the top with his legs spread for the Rougeau Brothers' old finisher, Le Bombe De Rougeau, but Steamboat ducked and Mountie crashed to the mat. Steamboat chopped away at Bravo's head to gain release, then dodged out of the way and sent Les Canadiens crashing into each other when the Mountie charged from behind. The Dragon tagged in the Warrior and they cleaned house together, knocking the Canadians out to the floor, where they consulted with their manager. Several minutes later, the faces were still in the driver's seat, using their own quick tags to wear down the Mountie, who was almost pinned with the Dragon's Reign Of Fire, but Bravo made the save. The WWF Champion was tagged back in and seemed to have the decision wrapped up when he covered the Mountie following the Gorilla Press, but Jimmy Hart hopped up on the apron. Referee Earl Hebner went over to admonish the Mouth, as Warrior got up as well and Steamboat went around the ring to pull Hart off the apron, which drew Bravo's attention. Bravo and Steamboat brawled at ringside as the referee tried to separate, when suddenly Randy Savage raced down to the squared circle, stopping to pick up the Warrior's WWF Title belt along the way. The Warrior turned just as the Macho Man scampered up to the top turnbuckle and dove off, cracking Warrior on top of the head with the championship gold, laying him out. Savage dragged the Mountie on top of the fallen Warrior and retreated, as the official returned to the action and registered the fateful three-count, signaling the upset victory for Les Canadiens. Bravo reached in and pulled the Mountie out to the floor as Steamboat slid into the ring a few seconds too late and checked on the WWF Champion. The camera focused on the Macho Man meeting up with Mr. Perfect in the aisle near the entrance curtain, and they pointed toward the ring, laughing and mocking their WWF March To WrestleMania opponents as McMahon and Ventura closed the show. (81%)

Overall: 76%

Rating: 6.10

Attendance: 6,504

Ticket Sales: $390,240

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SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay kicked things off on the LIVE network broadcast by announcing tonight's lineup: Davey Boy Smith taking on the Warlord, Virgil facing the Big Boss Man, "The Brother Love Show" with special guest The Undertaker, the Rhodes Family & Kevin Von Erich in six-man action, and the Rockers squaring off against Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect in the big tag team main event.

Six-Man Tag Team Match: Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes) & "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich vs. "Playboy" Buddy Rose/Brooklyn Brawler/Iron Mike Sharpe

The commentators hyped a tag team contest for this Monday's Prime Time Wrestling pitting the Rhodes Family against Demolition, as well as a WWF Title bout featuring the Mountie challenging the Ultimate Warrior. This was a competitive squash, beginning with the American Dream pretending to try out the Playboy's Blow Away diet powder, pouring the powder on his obese belly, but when Rose went to blow it off, Dusty opened up on him with the old "Flip, Flop, & Fly" routine. This one ended in submission when the Twister applied the Von Erich Claw on the Brawler after the Double Bionic Elbow from Dustin & Dusty. (64%)

Mean Gene Okerlund joined the Rhodes Family & Kevin Von Erich at ringside after the match to interview them about their upcoming six-man tag team match with Rick Martel & Power & Glory at WWF March To WrestleMania. The Texas Twister said that it was about time somebody evened the odds against Slick's boys, and that these three "desperados" were declaring "martial law", while Dustin added that they were going to exact "some good ol' Texas justice" at the PPV. Dusty, however, claimed that he and his son weren't looking past Demolition this Monday, admitting that it will be a war. (78%)

After a commercial break, "The Brother Love Show" commenced with the evil red-faced preacher declaring his "LOOOOOOVE" for all of his "brothers and sisters", before introducing this week's guest, his very own personal "Grim Reaper of Love", the Undertaker, who stalked onto the set as he glared at the fans. Brother Love ranted on about everybody in the WWF being too scared of the Undertaker to wrestle him, and claimed that the Dead Man was just misunderstood and should not be feared. He explained that, like the Brother himself, the Undertaker is all about "looooove", a merciful love that allowed those who would otherwise be tortured souls to rest in peace courtesy of the Pale Destroyer. The preacher stated that "Love works in mysterious ways" and continued to praise the silent Undertaker as a "Soldier of Love" until Bob Backlund marched out onto the stage. Love greeted "Brother Backlund" and asked what he wanted, to which the former long-time WWF Champion responded that if the Undertaker wanted a challenge, he would wrestle him in the ring right now. Backlund said that if there was "any 'Man' left in the Dead Man" he would accept the invitation, and headed off the stage toward the ring. Love directed the Undertaker toward the aisle and told Backlund to remember one thing when he is lowered six feet into the ground tonight: "AHHHHHHHH LOOOOOOOOOOVVVVVVVVVE YYYYYYEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWWW!!" (71%)

Bob Backlund vs. The Undertaker

Brother Love followed his Grim Reaper down to the ring, where Bob Backlund was doing his trademark warm-up dance. This was a very eclectic contest, with Backlund taking the fight right to the Undertaker, trying to combat his size and strength with skill and science. The former WWF Champion was able to power the Pale Destroyer back into a corner with a double-leg attempt, earning a pop from the crowd, but the Undertaker shoved him off and put him down with an impressive boot to the face. Backlund kept battling back, but eventually the Undertaker buried him with the Tombstone for the pinfall. Tenay put this win over as a huge feather in the cap of the Dead Man due to Backlund's five-year legacy as WWF Champion. (80%)

In the locker room, Jesse "The Body" Ventura interviewed Randy Savage & WWF Intercontinental Champion Mr. Perfect, who gloated about causing Ricky Steamboat & Ultimate Warrior to lose their match on Prime Time. The Flawless One said that their record as a tag team was still "perfect" and would remain that way tonight against the Rockers, and at WWF March To WrestleMania against Warrior & Dragon. The Macho Man gave Shawn Michaels his due, claiming that the blond Rocker took him "to the edge of that lightning bolt" last week, but he proved that he was "just this much better" than the rest of the WWF superstars. Perfect shot Savage a classic Hennig "what the hell?" look as the former WWF Champion finished with his usual "OOOOOOHHHHHHHH YEEEEAAAAHHHHH, DIG IT!" (90%)

Warlord vs. Davey Boy Smith

Paul Ellering accompanied his fearsome Warlord to ringside for this power struggle between two of the WWF's strongest men. The commentators discussed the British Bulldogs/Powers Of Pain match for WWF March To WrestleMania as the larger Warlord muscled Smith into a corner, then swung him around the ring by his long cornrowed hair. They fought back and forth, each man one-upping the other in different tests of strength, until Davey Boy scooped up the 333-pound monster over his shoulder in preparation for the Running Powerslam, stopping to turn and show off to the crowd, who cheered him. From ringside, Ellering reached in and grabbed hold of the Bulldog's ankle, tripping him up and bringing the Warlord crashing down on top of him. Precious Paul held Davey Boy's leg (a la Bobby Heenan at WrestleMania V) as young referee Mark Johnson completed the three-count for Warlord. Afterwards, Davey Boy reached through the ropes to grab Ellering, but Warlord stomped him across the back to stop him. The Barbarian charged out, and the Powers Of Pain began punishing Smith as Ellering spurred them on. Dynamite Kid finally ran out swinging a metal folding chair to chase off Warlord, Barbarian, & Ellering. (76%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund was with the Big Boss Man, who swung his nightstick around as he talked about the evils committed by Ted DiBiase and Virgil throughout their tenure in the WWF, including "trying to buy the law...namely ME!" last year. He said that Virgil stabbing Roddy Piper in the back at WWF Battle Lines was the final charge on what was already a lengthy rap sheet, and vowed to make the Million Dollar Man's lackey serve some "hard time" tonight. (71%)

Virgil vs. Big Boss Man

Ted DiBiase, wearing a broad smile, an expensive suit, and the Million Dollar belt, seconded his loyal servant, who was dominated by the Big Boss Man from the opening bell. The much larger Boss Man kept the advantage until he began slugging it out with Virgil, who showed off his pugilistic skills as Tenay put over his boxing background. After that, the match went back and forth until the former corrections officer planted Virgil with the Boss Man Slam and went for the cover. The Million Dollar Man, in referee Tim White's blind spot, reached into the ring and pulled Boss Man by the leg, stopping the count. Boss Man went after DiBiase, leaning through the ropes and grabbing him by his jacket as the ref attended to Virgil, who was exaggerating his condition while dragging himself to his feet using the ropes. Meanwhile, DiBiase whacked the Boss Man with the Million Dollar belt, at which point Virgil snuck up from behind and cinched in the Million Dollar Dream on the big Georgian, taking him down to the mat in the bodyscissors. Already unconscious from the belt shot, the official dropped the Boss Man's arm three times and declared Virgil the winner. Afterwards, DiBiase entered the ring as the bell rung and began stomping and kicking the Boss Man, still trapped in Virgil's Million Dollar Dream with bodyscissors, until Roddy Piper came screaming down the aisle. Virgil quickly released the Boss Man and took off with DiBiase as the Rowdy Scot was swinging his leather belt, trying to whip the Million Dollar Man and his lackey. (73%)

A pre-recorded vignette aired, showing "The King" Jerry Lawler strolling through a Gold's Gym, adorned with the red and yellow of Hulkamania. Lawler watched some scrawny kids working out as he referred to this gym as Hulk Hogan's "kingdom", pointing at the kids and wondering if the Hulkster was proud of his "subjects". Lawler compared the sweaty, stinky, ugly gym to his own dominion, which includes the entire wrestling world, and again bragged about conquering every territory he has entered, claiming that the WWF would be no different. He said that the key to victory was to eliminate the ruling head of state, which he identified as the Immortal One in the WWF, and called Hogan a "weak coward" for just rolling over and letting the King take over the WWF. The King warned that he doesn't like to be ignored, and demanded that the Hulkster respond before serious repercussions are felt. (84%)

Mean Gene Okerlund was in the locker room to interview the Rockers, who seemed a bit nervous as they prepared to take on Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect. Shawn Michaels said that he had the match of his life last week against Savage and was ready to "rock and roll" again, while Marty Jannetty promised he would never forget what the Macho Man did to him backstage last week and vowed revenge on both Savage & Perfect tonight. (72%)

The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty) vs. "Macho Man" Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect

There was a big buzz surrounding tonight's main event after last week's superb Michaels/Savage bout, which Albert put over as a true break-out performance. Marty Jannetty's forehead was bandaged as a result of the Macho Man's backstage assault last week and he wrestled a very intense style, taking the fight right to Savage to start the match. A classic tag team contest featuring four of the WWF's top athletes going full-force with quick tags and double-teams, as well as numerous near-falls from both squads that the crowd popped for. Late in the match-up, Perfect was exchanging chops with Michaels and coming out on top when the Ultimate Warrior rushed down the aisle and ran around ringside, pointing at and challenging Savage, who hopped down to the floor and chased the WWF Champion back to the locker room, leaving Perfect all alone. Naturally, this distracted the WWF Intercontinental Champion and left him vulnerable to a series of stinging double-teams from the Rockers, culminating in the Double Flying Fistdrop, after which Jannetty scored the 1-2-3 on the Perfect One. Tenay and Albert called it a huge upset and signed off as the Rockers celebrated and a dazed Mr. Perfect looked up the aisle, confused and disoriented. (90%)

Overall: 78%

Rating: 6.43

Attendance: 6,547

Ticket Sales: $392,820

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SUNDAY, MARCH 24, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING

Booker: Tony Garea (Road Agent)

Quality: 65%

Rating: 5.34

Attendance: 7,015

Ticket Sales: $420,900

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WWF March To WrestleMania on Sunday, March 31...

Main Event: Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat vs. Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect

New Zealand Rules Match: The Bushwhackers vs. The Nasty Boys

Handicap Match: Legion Of Doom vs. Demolition

Six-Man Tag Team Match: Rhodes Family & Kevin Von Erich vs. Power & Glory & Rick Martel

Roddy Piper vs. Virgil

The British Bulldogs vs. Powers Of Pain

Jim Duggan vs. Mr. Fuji's Mystery Opponent

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, MARCH 25, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura kicked this week's show off LIVE from ringside, announcing the following for tonight's program: the Bushwhackers meeting the Honky Tonk Man & Colonel Fuller in a "New Zealand Rules" match, the Rhodes Family battling Demolition, the Barbarian facing the Dynamite Kid, Sato taking on Jimmy Snuka, and in the main event, the Mountie challenging the Ultimate Warrior for the WWF Title.

Sato vs. "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka

Mr. Fuji accompanied Sato, as the commentators mentioned the Orient Express member's upcoming match against Jim Duggan this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. The Superfly wandered out, blank and emotionless, and took a thrashing from Sato without fighting back, as McMahon wondered why he seemed like such a zombie. Ventura blamed it on the Undertaker knocking a few of Snuka's screws loose back at the Royal Rumble with the Tombstone. Sato got the win following a sweet savate kick. Afterwards, Snuka rolled out and staggered up the aisle, still looking like he was in a trance. (63%)

After the match, Sean Mooney appeared in the aisle to interview Sato and Mr. Fuji, who claimed to have no idea what was wrong with Jimmy Snuka, but that the result was never in question anyway. Fuji warned that Jim Duggan was a "moron" for accepting a match with Sato on Saturday Night's Main Event the evening before he will meet Fuji's "secret weapon" at WWF March To WrestleMania. (77%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Ax, Smash, & Crush of Demolition, who growled about massacring the Rhodes Family tonight. Ax barked that his boys would deal with Dusty & Dustin, "warming up" for WWF March To WrestleMania where he would help them steamroll over the Legion Of Doom in the handicap match. (76%)

Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes)

Ax led his fellow "brothers-in-paint" down to the ring for this rather formulaic tag team bout, which saw Crush & Smash dominate Dustin with quick tags and bruising power maneuvers. The Son Of The Dream turned things around when he countered a double back-bodydrop by dropping to his knees and nailing both Demolition members with simultaneous uppercuts, which looked cool. He was then able to make the hot tag to the American Dream, who came in and cleaned house with punches and elbowsmashes on both Smash & Crush, as well as Ax when he climbed up on the apron. Dusty continued in control until Ax tripped him up from ringside, which brought out the Rhodes Family's six-man partner for WWF March To WrestleMania, Kevin Von Erich, who went after Ax. Ax rolled into the ring when he saw him coming, and the Texas Twister followed him in. Ax began pounding on the Twister until Dusty attacked Ax, at which point everybody began brawling and referee Tim White called for the bell, ruling the match a double-disqualification. All six men continued to slug it out until several WWF officials intervened and broke it up. (70%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan discussed the brawl that just happened and pointed out that Power & Glory & Rick Martel must have enjoying it, in the hopes that it would wear down the Rhodes Family & Kevin Von Erich for this Sunday. They ran through the entire WWF March To WrestleMania card, finishing with the main event of Ricky Steamboat & Ultimate Warrior against Mr. Perfect & Randy Savage, before introducing the WWF Intercontinental Champion as their guest. Perfect and Heenan shook hands and hugged like old friends, but Monsoon was ignored. Monsoon stated that he was going to ask about the big tag team war this Sunday, but first announced that Perfect would be defending the Intercontinental Title the previous evening on Saturday Night's Main Event against Marty Jannetty, who pinned him this past Saturday in the tag bout. Perfect said that it was a fluke and would never have happened if the Macho Man hadn't taken off after the Warrior and abandoned him, and told Gorilla he would prove it to the world this weekend when he outclasses Jannetty one-on-one. Monsoon asked if there were any hard feelings between Perfect and Savage after what happened, and also inquired how Perfect felt when Savage claimed to be better than the rest of the WWF superstars. Perfect and Heenan both became irate, accusing Monsoon of trying to start trouble less than a week before the big PPV match, and Perfect said that nothing was wrong, and that they would systematically pick Warrior & Steamboat apart. Perfect warned that he would show the Dragon that he is the "most perfect" Intercontinental Champion in the history of the WWF, and that he and the Macho Man would emerge victorious on Sunday. "And you know why? Because I'm Mr. Perfect." (82%)

Backstage at the arena, the Honky Tonk Man & Colonel Robert Fuller were having a loud argument with the Bushwhackers, with a few WWF agents standing between the teams to separate them. The Southerners were angry, asking Luke & Butch "what in tarnation 'New Zealand Rules'" were, but the New Zealanders just "WHHHOOOOAAAA"'ed and "YYYEEEEAAAAHHHHHHH"'ed before marching away. (72%)

New Zealand Rules Match: Honky Tonk Man & Colonel Robert Lee Fuller vs. The Bushwhackers (Luke & Butch)

The commentators were clueless as to what New Zealand Rules were, while the Colonel & Honky Tonk seemed very unhappy and frustrated on their way down to the ring. The Bushwhackers entered next and handed a small cue card to ring announcer Howard "The Fink" Finkel, who announced that New Zealand Rules meant "NO disqualification, NO count-out, NO holds barred, ANYTHING goes, FALLS COUNT ANYWHERE!" The crowd popped as Luke & Butch went right after their opponents, taking them by surprise as Ventura complained about how unfair it was that Honky & Fuller weren't prepared for the stipulations, while McMahon advised that they should read the contracts more carefully next time. The match went on with all four men in the ring at once, the Bushwhackers knocking the Southerners around with their unorthodox double-teams, until the fight spilled out to ringside, where Honky took control by busting Butch over the head with his guitar. The heels scored a few near-falls on the floor as McMahon called New Zealand Rules "as unorthodox as the Bushwhackers themselves", in reference to the fact that there has never been a televised Falls Count Anywhere match in the WWF before. The end came later when Luke & Butch squashed both Honky & Fuller at ringside against the ringpost with the Bushwhacker Battering Ram, after which Butch pinned the Colonel while Luke covered Honky Tonk. The Bushwhackers marched away as McMahon claimed that the Nasty Boys might be in for a long night at WWF March To WrestleMania. (70%)

Another Jake "The Snake" Roberts vignette aired with the Serpentine One in the office with his masked psychiatrist Dr. Schultz. Roberts was explaining that he had seen three different doctors, who all told him that his eyes were pretty much healed, but that there would probably always be some residual damage, which could cause him to see "shadowy images". Jake admitted that he had to get used to it, and that the shadows he saw weren't really masked stalkers following him around. Schultz agreed and told Jake that he would always be there to help him, and informed him that he had spoken with WWF President Andre The Giant. Jake perked up as the doctor said that he told the President that the Snake's final session would be next week, and after that he would recommend clearing him to return to the ring. Jake was very happy and thanked Schultz profusely before saying, "See you next week then, doc." (82%)

Barbarian vs. Dynamite Kid

McMahon applauded Dr. Schultz's decision and welcomed the return of Jake Roberts, while Ventura claimed that the Snake was still unbalanced and it would create an unsafe working environment for guys like Kato and the Conquistadors. Paul Ellering seconded his Power Of Pain, while the Dynamite Kid came out alone. They put on a fairly entertaining match-up, with the Barbarian manhandling the Kid, who fought back with speed and aerial tactics. Dynamite gained control and came off the top turnbuckle with a flying cross-body, but Barbarian dodged it and referee Shane McMahon took the blow. The Warlord immediately ran down and jumped Dynamite from behind, beating him down with heavy forearms until Davey Boy Smith charged down into the ring. Davey Boy teed off on Warlord with a series of right hands before running into the ropes for a running clothesline, which accidentally caught Dynamite when Warlord moved just as Dynamite was getting up. The two Powers Of Pain tossed Smith out to the floor before executing the End Of Days on Dynamite, whom Barbarian then covered while Warlord went out to ringside to keep Smith at bay. Ellering revived the official, who slowly made the three-count to give the victory to the Barbarian. The Powers Of Pain left with Precious Paul, laughing at the British Bulldogs. (72%)

Mean Gene Okerlund was in the locker room to interview Jimmy Hart and The Mountie, who looked very intense and ready for his WWF Title shot against the Ultimate Warrior tonight. The Mouth Of The South bragged about predicting victory last week in the tag team match and predicted that it would be a repeat performance tonight: the Mountie covering the WWF Champion as the referee counts 1-2-3. (84%)

WWF Championship Match: Ultimate Warrior [champion] vs. The Mountie

Jimmy Hart escorted his Mountie, waving the Canadian flag and jabbering through his megaphone about the Mountie becoming the new WWF Heavyweight Champion of the World this evening. The Warrior sprinted out and completed a lap around the ring, threatening the Mouth Of The South, before climbing in and flooring the Mountie with a barrage of stiff clotheslines. The Mountie got some offense in after interference from Hart, allowing the Canadian to try to wear down the WWF Champion using some of his corrupt law enforcement "crowd control" submission techniques. The Warrior fought back, powering out of a half-nelson sleeperhold and hammering the Mountie with fists, clotheslines, and a flying shoulderblock. The Ultimate One put the Mountie away with the Gorilla Press, followed by the Warrior Splash, for the 1-2-3 and another successful defense of his WWF Championship. McMahon and Ventura signed off, hyping WWF March To WrestleMania this Sunday as the triumphant Warrior celebrated on the turnbuckles. (72%)

Overall: 74%

Rating: 6.01

Attendance: 7,036

Ticket Sales: $422,160

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SATURDAY, MARCH 30, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay opened the LIVE network broadcast, shilling WWF March To WrestleMania tomorrow night before discussing tonight's program: Mr. Perfect defending the WWF Intercontinental Championship against Marty Jannetty in the main event, Ted DiBiase taking on the Big Boss Man, Rick Martel facing Animal, Jim Duggan battling Sato, the Nasty Boys on "The Brother Love Show", and Jerry Lawler in action.

The regal entrance music of Jerry Lawler kicked in as the King was carried down the aisle by his slaves. The King stepped into the ring, where his young opponent was waiting, and grabbed the microphone from ring announcer Howard "The Fink" Finkel. Lawler asked the youngster his name, which was PJ Montoya, and then asked him if he liked Hulk Hogan. Montoya nodded, and Lawler asked him if he considered himself a true Hulkamaniac. Montoya thought about it before nodding again, at which point Lawler produced a "Hulk Rules" tank top and gave it to him. The young rookie gladly accepted it and put it on at the insistence of the King, who of course cheapshotted Montoya once he was wearing the shirt. (83%)

"The King" Jerry Lawler vs. PJ Montoya

The King continued his savage attack, totally wasting Montoya, whom Lawler kept referring to as "Hulk Hogan" as he tortured the youngster mercilessly. After an extended beating, the King planted Montoya with the Royal Piledriver for the win. Afterwards, the King continued the punishment and tossed Montoya to the floor, yelling into the camera about the real Hulkster ducking him. (63%)

Sato vs. "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan

Mr. Fuji waddled out with Sato as the commentators claimed that his Orient Express partner Kato was back in Japan, undergoing intense training in the ways of the samurai. Hacksaw got a nice pop as Tenay again speculated on who Fuji's "secret weapon" will be at WWF March To WrestleMania, and suggested that Hacksaw was underestimating Sato by taking him on the night before the PPV. This was a solid, if unspectacular, contest that saw Sato get in quite a bit of his martial arts offense and lock on a nerve pinch, which Duggan eventually broke out of as a "USA" chant shook the rafters. Soon after, he put Sato away with the Three Point Stance, and threatened Fuji. (69%)

Brother Love was on the set of "The Brother Love Show", putting down the Bushwhackers and their "unwashed, inbred, backwards culture", claiming that "loooove" had not yet touched an uncivilized nation like New Zealand, before introducing the Nasty Boys and Jimmy Hart as his guests this week. The Mouth Of The South babbled about how unfair it was that the Nasties had no idea what "New Zealand Rules" were until this past Monday on Prime Time, and that it gave them less than a week to prepare for the stipulations. However, Brian Knobbs claimed that it didn't matter anyway, because the Nasties grew up fighting on the street with no rules. Jerry Saggs added that it would be "no sweat" to bust up Luke & Butch and add them to the pile of broken, battered bodies. They finished by warning the Hart Foundation that the match with the Bushwhackers tomorrow night wouldn't get in the way of the Nasty Boys coming to WrestleMania VII and taking the WWF Tag Team Championship. (80%)

Backstage in the locker room, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Slick and Rick Martel, who complained about having to wrestle Animal, afraid that the Legion Of Doom member might mess up his pretty face. The Doctor Of Style said that the Model was going to make the LOD's bout tomorrow night a "true handicap match" by breaking Animal's back tonight. They also talked about the six-man tag team match at WWF March To WrestleMania, claiming that the team of the Model, Paul Roma, & Hercules was the best-looking combination ever put together. (72%)

"The Model" Rick Martel vs. Animal

Slick escorted the Model to ringside for this entertaining match-up, in which Martel tried to keep the bigger, stronger Animal on the canvas, wearing him down with mat holds, along with some treachery and interference from the Doctor Of Style. The Legion Of Doom member battled back with his impressive power, as Tenay reminded viewers that Animal eliminated Martel from this year's Royal Rumble. Slick attempted to get involved again, which brought out the Rhodes Family, who dragged Slick away from the ring. Power & Glory came down in defense of their manager, which distracted Martel and allowed Animal to powerslam the Model for the 1-2-3. (78%)

Jesse "The Body" Ventura was in the locker room along with Virgil and Ted DiBiase, who was preparing to face the Big Boss Man. The Million Dollar Man said he knew the Boss Man was stupid, but he didn't know he was stupid enough to challenge the Million Dollar Champion after Virgil "singlehandedly" put him to sleep last week. DiBiase told Roddy Piper to keep his nose out of his business and watch him dismantle Boss Man tonight. (92%)

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase vs. Big Boss Man

The Million Dollar Man was all smiles as he walked out wearing the Million Dollar belt, with Virgil by his side. Virgil held the belt during this great match-up, which went back and forth. It was a classic "power vs. science" bout, with DiBiase also using some skullduggery to get ahead, as the commentators discussed last week's Boss Man/Virgil match and tomorrow night's Virgil/Piper contest. Boss Man took control and looked ready to score the win as he Irish-whipped DiBiase to the ropes for the Boss Man Slam, but DiBiase reversed the whip and when Boss Man hit the ropes, Virgil grabbed his ankle. Boss Man quickly turned to look at Virgil, giving DiBiase the opportunity to sneak in and roll up the big Georgian with a handful of tights to pick up the three-count. (81%)

After the match, the Big Boss Man got up and grabbed Ted DiBiase by the throat, backing him into a corner and unloading a salvo of hard right hands on the Million Dollar Man. Virgil quickly slid into the ring and charged from behind, whacking Boss Man in the back of the head with the Million Dollar belt. As the Boss Man collapsed to the canvas, DiBiase and Virgil began putting the boots to the former corrections officer until "Rowdy" Roddy Piper raced down the aisle, swinging his leather belt and emitting a Scottish war cry. Hot Rod rolled into the squared circle and went after Virgil and DiBiase, who wasted no time in retreating and heading back to the locker room, telling Piper he would get his tomorrow night. (81%)

In the locker room, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Marty Jannetty, who said that his physical wounds from Randy Savage's sneak attack a couple of weeks ago were healing, but the scars on his soul were still there. The Rocker claimed that one thing that would help his soul recover would be to win the WWF Intercontinental Championship from Mr. Perfect this evening, the night before Perfect & Savage are thrashed by the Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat. (77%)

WWF Intercontinental Title Match: Mr. Perfect [champion] vs. Marty Jannetty

The commentators really went into hype overdrive during this tremendous contest, pushing tomorrow night's WWF March To WrestleMania main event between Mr. Perfect & Randy Savage and Ricky Steamboat & Ultimate Warrior. This was another in a string of fast-paced, athletic Saturday Night's Main Event main events, with Marty Jannetty coming close to capturing the Intercontinental belt on several occasions. Perfect also scored a number of near-falls, the crowd popping for all of the hot action in this contest. In the end, Perfect ducked a superkick from Jannetty and trapped the Rocker in the Perfectplex for the 1-2-3. (85%)

Albert and Tenay squeezed in some final WWF March To WrestleMania hype for tomorrow night before closing the show.

Overall: 78%

Rating: 6.85

Attendance: 7,011

Ticket Sales: $420,660

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I'm looking forward to the PPV. Here's the lineup, one last time...

Main Event: Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat vs. Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect

New Zealand Rules Match: The Bushwhackers vs. The Nasty Boys

Handicap Match: Legion Of Doom vs. Demolition

Six-Man Tag Team Match: Rhodes Family & Kevin Von Erich vs. Power & Glory & Rick Martel

Roddy Piper vs. Virgil

The British Bulldogs vs. Powers Of Pain

Jim Duggan vs. Mr. Fuji's Secret Weapon

[Chrononaut]

SUNDAY, MARCH 31, 1991 -- WWF MARCH TO WRESTLEMANIA

The PPV Preview Show was hosted by Mean Gene Okerlund and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, who went through tonight's card top-to-bottom in their own colorful way. The half-hour program ended with a slick video package hyping the main event tag team war pitting the Ultimate Warrior & Ricky Steamboat against Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect, featuring highlights from the ongoing feud. (91%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura kicked off the pay-per-view broadcast from the stage at the back of the arena, discussing some of the lineup for this evening, before sending it to ring announcer Howard "The Fink" Finkel in the squared circle.

Six-Man Tag Team Match: Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes) & "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich vs. Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma) & "The Model" Rick Martel

Slick was in his finest threads when he accompanied his cocky squad down to the ring, while the Texas trio received a great pop from the fans. This was a solid, heated contest with the heels bending the rules and utilizing double and triple-teams to control the Texas Twister, who would not stay down and kept kicking out. Eventually, Von Erich avoided a Power & Glory double-team, causing Hercules to crash into Roma. Roma and Von Erich both made the tag, bringing in the American Dream to do a number on the Model and his allies. Dusty then tagged in son Dustin, who scored the pin on Martel following the Double Bionic Elbow. Slick tried to get involved to stop the count, but the Twister neutralized him with the Von Erich Claw at ringside. (73%)

Powers Of Pain (Barbarian & Warlord) vs. The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith & Dynamite Kid)

Paul Ellering led his monstrous Powers to ringside, looking more bloodthirsty than ever as they tore into the British Bulldogs in a ferocious, relatively fast-paced match-up. Ventura pointed out Davey Boy's new short haircut, suggesting that he got rid of the "dreadlocks" after the Warlord swung him around by the hair during their singles match a couple of weeks ago. The classic battle of speed vs. power, with the Englishmen trying to keep their much bigger opponents off-balance with their agility and quick double-team maneuvers, while Warlord & Barbarian dominated with their overwhelming strength. During the match, as the Dynamite Kid was making a comeback against the massive Warlord, Demolition crept down to ringside while Precious Paul distracted referee Danny Marsh. Crush & Smash yanked Davey Boy off the apron and battered him with double-axhandles across the back, before producing a studded leather dog collar attached to a steel chain. They locked the collar around Smith's thick neck, then tied the chain around the ringpost, in effect hanging the muscular Briton, as the crowd booed. Demolition headed back up the aisle, leaving Smith hanging from the post, as Warlord tagged in the Barbarian, at which point they flattened Dynamite with the End Of Days. Barbarian covered the Kid while the ref administered the three-count. Medical personnel immediately rushed down to ringside to free Davey Boy, who had passed out. Monsoon was horrified at the shade of red that Davey Boy's face had turned, and hoped that he would be alright. (83%)

New Zealand Rules Match: The Bushwhackers (Luke & Butch) vs. The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs)

The commentators went over the history between these two teams, including the Nasties putting the Bushwhackers out of action prior to the Royal Rumble, as Jimmy Hart escorted Saggs & Knobbs out for this wild brawl. The match started in the ring, but soon spilled out to the floor, where all four men went at it, ramming each other against the ringpost, ring steps, the iron railing, the timekeeper's table, and anything else that was around. During the bout, Monsoon announced that Davey Boy Smith had been taken to the hospital and would hopefully have an update before the end of the PPV. Saggs, Butch, Luke, and Knobbs brawled up the aisle and even out into the crowd, going up the stairs and toward the concession stands, where a food fight erupted. Hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, peanuts, and soda were all used as weapons before the battle moved on throughout the arena and out the doors onto the street, where Butch scored a near-fall in a snowbank on Knobbs after a Bushwhacker Battering Ram against a parked car. Saggs broke the count and the match continued down to the parking garage, ending up backstage in the arena. Monsoon was shocked at the Bushwhackers' street-fighting skills, as the New Zealanders assumed control and showed a side of themselves not seen since their pre-WWF days as The Sheepherders. After having knocked down both Knobbs & Saggs with Bushwhacker Battering Rams, Butch & Luke were jumped by Dino Bravo & The Mountie before they could go for the pins. They fought off Les Canadiens, which gave the Nasty Boys enough time to recuperate and go back on the offensive, pummeling their distracted opponents down. The Nasties tossed Butch into the wall head-first, knocking him out, before Saggs climbed a near-by ladder as Knobbs scooped up Luke and powerslammed him on the hard floor. Saggs followed with the Pit Stop Drop off the ladder and covered Luke while Knobbs pinned Butch, both Nasty Boys scoring a three-count. The exhausted Nasties staggered away from the scene as the commentators put over the crazy brawl and hyped the Nasties' upcoming shot at the WWF Tag Team Championship at WrestleMania VII. (77%)

Virgil vs. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper

Wearing an Armani suit and carrying the Million Dollar belt over his shoulder, Ted DiBiase seconded Virgil, who looked to be in great shape and more than ready for the biggest match in his career. Hot Rod came screaming down the aisle and opened up on both Virgil and the Million Dollar Man before even taking off his kilt. After throwing DiBiase out to the floor, Piper dominated Virgil, beating the servant from pillar to post with an assortment of kicks, stomps, punches, backrakes, eye-pokes, and other dirty tactics, much to the delight of the audience. Virgil did get in some offense after some assistance from his boss, choking out the Scotsman and using his boxing skills. Piper soon regained control, which Monsoon attributed to his Scottish temper, especially since Virgil stabbed him in the back last month at WWF Battle Lines. The fight spilled out to ringside, where Piper kept up the intensity, whipping Virgil into the ring steps and bodyslamming him on the floor. The Million Dollar Man attempted to intervene, but was stopped by referee Joey Marella; while the ref was busy with DiBiase, the savvy Piper used his bootlaces to choke Virgil, before dragging him up and shoving him back into the ring under the bottom rope. The official went to check on Virgil while Piper climbed up on the apron, when DiBiase sprang into action, grabbing Hot Rod's leg and pulling him back down to the floor with a thud. DiBiase quickly hurled Piper into the ringpost, but the proud braveheart still managed to stumble back to his feet, at which point DiBiase pasted him across the head with the Million Dollar belt. The Million Dollar Man fled the scene, returning to Virgil's corner, as the official began counting Piper out, reaching ten and awarding the decision to Virgil via count-out. DiBiase laughed and left with Virgil after sneaking in a few more stomps on the unconscious Scotsman. (76%)

Handicap Match: Demolition (Ax/Smash/Crush) vs. Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal)

The commentators hyped this as a clash between the two dominant forces in tag team wrestling over the last five to ten years, as Hawk made his return from the injury suffered at the hands of Demolition during their last encounter. Ax looked in relatively good shape, and this titanic battle kicked off with all five men brawling in the ring at once. After a couple of minutes, the chaos settled down and this turned out to be a pretty entertaining match-up, with Crush & Smash doing most of the work for Demolition, focusing their attack on Hawk's bad leg as Animal could only watch from the LOD's corner. Occasionally, Animal would rush in illegally and get stopped by referee Tim White, allowing Demolition to triple-team Hawk in their corner. Ax would tag in, unload some heavy artillery, and tag back out throughout the match, but eventually he found himself trapped in the ring when Hawk mounted a comeback and tossed Ax toward the LOD corner, where Hawk made the hot tag. Animal roared in and took on all three members of Demolition, putting each one down with clotheslines, shoulderblocks, and powerslams, before clotheslining both Smash & Crush over the top rope by himself. Around this time, the Dynamite Kid staggered down the aisle, looking groggy but still challenging Demolition for what they did to Davey Boy Smith earlier. Ax saw what was happening as the match came to a temporary halt, and surprisingly barked at his teammates to go after Dynamite. Confused, Smash & Crush followed orders and went after Dynamite in the aisle, brawling back through the curtain as Ax's right hand was blocked by Animal, who tagged Hawk back in and lifted Ax up on his shoulders. Hawk flew off the top turnbuckle, triggering the Doomsday Device, and covered Ax to pick up the victory as the commentators wondered what Ax was thinking when he ordered Crush & Smash to abandon him. (76%)

After a brief WrestleMania VII promo, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan was introduced for his match and received a loud pop from the fans. Ring announcer Howard Finkel then introduced Mr. Fuji, who appeared and stood beside the entrance curtain clutching a microphone. Fuji told Duggan that he warned him that his secret weapon would deliver pain and destruction, before finally introducing the newest member of his "Dojo Of Pain", the man who would "bring United States to its KNEEEEES", none other than The Great Muta! (80%)

"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan vs. The Great Muta

The Great Muta, who has made appearances in the NWA/WCW over the last couple of years, emerged wearing his usual pants and facepaint, as he and Mr. Fuji bowed to each other before heading down to ringside together. Ventura claimed to have "heard a lot about him" and noted that Fuji's introduction of Muta seemed to have thrown off Duggan, who looked slightly more confused than usual. This was a definite contrast in styles, as Duggan seemed unsure how to approach his debuting opponent, who kept Hacksaw on his toes with his incredible speed and agility. Duggan battled back, catching the smaller Muta when he went for a cross-bodyblock and powerslamming him to the canvas. He controlled Muta with his basic power arsenal but couldn't keep him down for a three-count, as Ventura predicted a bright future for Muta in the WWF. Duggan finally got into position for the Three Point Stance, but Fuji climbed up on the apron and distracted referee Shane McMahon. When Hacksaw charged toward Muta with the running clothesline, the Japanese sensation shocked him by spewing red mist from his mouth into Duggan's face, apparently blinding him. Muta quickly scampered to the top turnbuckle and did a back flip, taking Duggan down with a picture-perfect Moonsault press and hooking the leg as the official returned to the action and counted the 1-2-3. His job done, Muta rolled out to the floor, where he and Fuji bowed to each other again before heading back to the locker room as the commentators put over the Great One's victory over the rugged WWF veteran. (78%)

"Macho Man" Randy Savage & Mr. Perfect vs. Ultimate Warrior & Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat

The crowd got hotter and hotter as each superstar got their own individual entrance, building to a fever pitch when the WWF Champion was introduced, drawing a thunderous ovation. A very heated main event, while not a textbook tag team match by any means, it had a very special feeling as the hatred between the two sides could be felt in the air. This war went back and forth, as Ventura accused Monsoon of trying to start trouble between Perfect & Savage last week on Prime Time Wrestling. The heels took the advantage with some underhanded maneuvers and cut the ring in half, controlling the Dragon while making fluid tags in and out. Steamboat kept kicking out though, showing great heart as he absorbed an enormous amount of punishment and eventually countered an attempted Perfectplex with a small package for a near-fall. Soon after, the Warrior was tagged in and exploded on the WWF Intercontinental Champion, who was beaten back into his corner and forced to tag out to the Macho Man. Savage seemed surprised as Warrior slingshotted him into the ring and unloaded on him with a heavy barrage of right hands. The WWF Champion's dominance continued until Savage avoided an avalanche in a neutral corner and rolled the Warrior up for another near-fall. Savage put the Warrior right back down with an impressive hotshot across the top rope before charging over and knocking Steamboat off the apron. The Dragon slid into the ring and tried to go after Savage but was stopped by referee Earl Hebner, at which point Mr. Perfect grabbed a metal folding chair from ringside and climbed up on the apron, ready to swing as Savage whipped Warrior toward him. However, the Warrior reversed the Irish-whip and Perfect accidentally whacked Savage across the head with the chair, the impact also knocking the Intercontinental Champion down to the floor as the WWF Champion scooped up the dazed Macho Man and dropped him with the Gorilla Press. He followed up with the Warrior Splash to end the contest and take home the victory. The Dragon joined the Warrior to celebrate their big win in the squared circle as Monsoon and Ventura signed off, inviting fans to join them next month for WrestleMania VII. (89%)

Overall: 80%

Buyrate: 1.39

Attendance: 15,671

PPV Revenue: $3,475,000

Ticket Sales: $940,260

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Celebrating birthdays in March were...

Paul Ellering (38)

Rick Martel (36)

Mr. Perfect (31)

The Undertaker (26)

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Time for our quarterly meeting...

WORLD WRESTLING FEDERATION BUSINESS

Owner: Linda McMahon

Money: $31,725,300

Size: Global

Public Image: 54%

Risk Level: 42%

Production Values: 100%

Merchandising: 100% / $2,000,000 per month

Advertising: 100% / $1,000,000 per month

Sponsors: Sports Illustrated (13 months), Nintendo (8 months), Coliseum Video (5 months), Sega (3 months)

MEETING: MONDAY, APRIL 1, 1991 -- 9:00AM

Personal Assistant, Sophie:

I think the market is in a pretty healthy state at the moment.

Looking at the stats, I'd say the industry is at 56% of its peak.

The signs are that the market is beginning to weaken.

We currently have 93 workers on the overall roster.

We are currently running two house shows per week.

Head Writer, Eddie Chandler:

Our top draw is Hulk Hogan, while our most talented superstar is Ricky Steamboat.

#1 babyface: Hulk Hogan

#2 babyface: Ultimate Warrior

#3 babyface: Andre The Giant

#4 babyface: Roddy Piper

#5 babyface: Ricky Steamboat

#1 heel: Randy Savage

#2 heel: ...

#3 heel: Mr. Perfect

#4 heel: Bobby Heenan

#5 heel: Ted DiBiase

Head Medic, Dr. Zahorian:

Kato will return from his arm injury in one month.

Jim Powers will return from his broken leg in 4 months.

Tanaka will return from his torn calf in 6 months.

Kerry Von Erich will return from his knee injury in 13 months.

Development Booker, Pat Patterson:

There are currently 13 workers in Stampede Wrestling.

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, APRIL 1, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura opened the show LIVE from ringside, briefly discussing last night's WWF March To WrestleMania before running down tonight's lineup: the Hart Foundation defending the WWF Tag Team Championship against the Bushwhackers, a rematch between Rick Martel and the Texas Twister, Greg Valentine meeting Koko B. Ware, The Great Muta making his Prime Time Wrestling debut, and more.

Greg "The Hammer" Valentine vs. Koko B. Ware

Jimmy Hart accompanied the Hammer for this solid match-up, which the commentators used to announce that Davey Boy Smith would be out of action for two weeks due to Demolition's horrific assault last night, and hyped the official contract signing for the WWF Championship match at WrestleMania VII between the Ultimate Warrior and Randy Savage on this weekend's Saturday Night's Main Event. They also pushed a match featuring another member of the Hart Organization, the Mountie, against Ricky Steamboat this Saturday night. As for this match, the Bird Man was forced to submit when Valentine applied the Hartbreaker. (69%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan ran down the results of last night's WWF March To WrestleMania, before Heenan told Monsoon that despite all his teasing, he really liked Monsoon. Gorilla was surprised, until the Brain said, "April Fool's!" and laughed at him. Gorilla soldiered on, introducing "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan as their guest. Hacksaw walked in wearing blue jeans, his own WWF "Hacksaw" t-shirt, and a pair of sunglasses, explaining that his eyes were still a bit sensitive from "whatever Moto spit in my face" last night, repeatedly mispronouncing The Great Muta's name. Duggan announced that WWF President Andre The Giant had granted him a rematch with Muta for this weekend's Saturday Night's Main Event, but this time Mr. Fuji would be banned from ringside, blaming the mysterious red mist on Fuji somehow. Duggan said that he was sure he could beat Muta in a fair fight. (74%)

The Great Muta vs. Rob Zakowski

Mr. Fuji waddled out with his newest charge as Ventura complained that Fuji being banned from ringside on Saturday Night's Main Event would interfere with his managerial abilities. This was actually an entertainingly competitive squash that played to Muta's strengths, allowing him to show off some of his flashy spots, while Zakowski showed that he may have a future in the WWF with some more experience and training. Muta finished him off with a beautiful moonsault, which Ventura said was called the "Rising Sun". (76%)

Mean Gene Okerlund appeared in the aisle after the match to catch up with the Great Muta and Mr. Fuji, who claimed that Jim Duggan was deluding himself if he thought that barring Fuji from ringside would be the key to defeating Muta this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. Fuji said that the "mind-to-mind communication" technique he employs with his proteges works over thousands of miles, so not being at ringside with Muta wouldn't matter. (81%)

After a commercial break, Slick and Rick Martel were in the ring, although the Model stood in the corner away from the Doctor Of Style, who was in mid-ring holding the microphone. Slick began to whine about losing the six-man tag team match last night to the Rhodes Family & Kevin Von Erich, but cast a glare toward Martel as he blamed the loss on one man's mistake. Moving on, he said that too many WWF superstars have been putting their hands on the Doctor Of Style lately, so he went out and hired the "baddest, meanest, BLACKEST" bodyguard money can buy. Slick asked the fans to put their hands together and welcome back to the WWF... Bad News Brown! Bad News marched out in street clothes with the nastiest look on his face and stood by Slick's side, his arms crossed as they awaited the Model's opponent. (79%)

"The Model" Rick Martel vs. "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich

Slick and Bad News Brown stood at ringside and watched as the Model engaged in a well-worked rematch with the Texas Twister, trading the advantage back and forth as the Doctor Of Style yelled orders at his protege. Surprisingly, Martel passed up a couple of opportunities to take short cuts, instead choosing to compete using his natural skills, as McMahon reminded viewers that Slick got Martel disqualified in his last match against Von Erich. Eventually, Martel locked the Boston Crab on Von Erich, who somehow made it to the ropes to force the break and mounted a comeback, culminating in the Twister Punch. However, Martel got his leg over the rope to stop the count, surprising the Twister, who then slapped the Von Erich Claw on Martel. The Model tried to escape, but finally was forced to surrender. (75%)

Following the match, as Kevin Von Erich headed up the aisle, an unhappy Slick grabbed the microphone and entered the ring, while Bad News Brown stayed at ringside. Looking down at Rick Martel, who was attempting to pull himself up by the ropes, the Doctor Of Style expressed his disappointment with the Model's recent performances and said that he was embarrassing not only Slick, but also his other clients, Power & Glory. Slick continued to berate Martel until the former co-WWF Tag Team Champion had had enough and grabbed the beanpole manager by the lapels, shaking and threatening him as the crowd turned and began rooting him on. Suddenly, Bad News whacked Martel across the back with a metal folding chair, and delivered a couple more shots to the back as Martel collapsed to the mat. Raising the chair up, Bad News drove it down edge-first into Martel's lower back, continuing in this jackhammer-like fashion until the Texas Twister rushed back out to make the save, chasing Brown and Slick from the ring. Von Erich stood over Martel and pointed at Slick and Brown as they retreated up the aisle. (71%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed the Bushwhackers, who looked a little banged-up from last night's New Zealand Rules match with the Nasty Boys, but claimed that they had a great time slugging it out with Knobbs & Saggs even though they lost. Luke & Butch said that they appreciated the Hart Foundation offering them a title shot tonight based on their effort at WWF March To WrestleMania, and were also looking forward to locking horns with Les Canadiens in the future for their interference last night. (75%)

WWF Tag Team Title Match: The Hart Foundation (Bret "Hit Man" Hart & Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart) [champions] vs. The Bushwhackers (Luke & Butch)

Ventura accused the Hart Foundation of offering the title shot tonight because they knew the Bushwhackers were still beaten up from last night's match with the Nasty Boys, which McMahon denied. This was an interesting contrast of styles, with the pure wrestling of the Hit Man combined with the straight-ahead brawling technique of the Anvil against the unpredictable, unorthodox antics of Butch & Luke. The Bushwhackers put on a respectable showing, scoring several near-falls, but it wasn't enough to vanquish the WWF Tag Team Champions, who finished off the New Zealanders when Bret covered Butch following the Hart Attack. Afterwards, all four competitors shook hands, congratulating each other on a clean, fair match. (78%)

After the Bushwhackers marched off and the Hart Foundation were celebrating with their championship belts, the Nasty Boys emerged from the crowd and assaulted the WWF Tag Team Champions in the ring. However, the Anvil & Hit Man fought back and brawled with Saggs & Knobbs, slugging it out until a bevy of WWF referees and officials flooded out to separate the four superstars. (72%)

Another Jake Roberts vignette aired, showing an uncharacteristically happy Snake arriving at his psychiatrist's office for his final session. The receptionist led Jake into the empty office and informed him that Dr. Schultz should be with him soon. Jake nodded and sat down, waiting a couple of moments until the masked doctor came out of the private bathroom and sat across from Jake as usual. The Snake began talking about how he has his problem under control and how much he was looking forward to returning to action in the WWF, babbling excitedly as Schultz just kept nodding and taking notes. As he slowed his talking, Jake heard some noise coming from the closet and got up, asking Schultz if he could check what it was. Schultz nodded some more, and Roberts went over and opened the closet, revealing the maskless Dr. Schultz tied up and gagged, kicking and moaning. As Roberts turned back to look at the masked man he thought was Schultz, the man was waiting and whacked him over the head with the chair he was sitting in, flooring the Snake. The masked man stomped and kicked Roberts before dragging him to his feet and twisting his head, dropping him through the coffee table with a vicious reverse neckbreaker. With Roberts laid out on the floor in the wreckage of the broken table, the man removed his mask, revealing none other than... Ravishing Rick Rude, who sneered down at Jake and spit on him before saying, "April Fool's, Roberts." The show faded out on the deviously triumphant snarl of the Ravishing One, returned to the WWF. (91%)

Overall: 77%

Rating: 6.30

Attendance: 7,008

Ticket Sales: $420,480

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SATURDAY, APRIL 6, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay kicked off the LIVE network broadcast, announcing tonight's program: the rematch pitting Jim Duggan against The Great Muta, Ricky Steamboat taking on the Mountie, Tito Santana & Koko B. Ware meeting the Million Dollar Team, the Rockers in action, Rick Martel on "The Brother Love Show", and the official contract signing for the WWF Championship match at WrestleMania VII between the Ultimate Warrior and Randy Savage.

A pre-recorded segment was shown featuring WWF President Andre The Giant, who publicly apologized to Jake Roberts for what happened during what was supposed to be his final session with Dr. Schultz, and officially reinstated the Snake back into the WWF. Andre announced that to make it up to him, he was granting Jake a match with "Ravishing" Rick Rude to exact some revenge...at WrestleMania VII! (85%)

The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty) vs. "Playboy" Buddy Rose & Brooklyn Brawler

Tenay and Albert discussed the WWF return of the Ravishing One and the just-announced Rick Rude/Jake Roberts match for WrestleMania VII during this semi-competitive squash, which began with a laughable posedown between the flabby Rose and Michaels, who was in great shape. This one came to an end when Shawn covered the Playboy following the Double Flying Fistdrop. (65%)

A video aired on the Big Boss Man, who was recovering from a concussion suffered when he was smashed in the head with the Million Dollar belt by Ted DiBiase and Virgil two weeks in a row. His doctor explained that he told the Boss Man to take it easy after the first week when the Million Dollar Man nailed him with the belt, but that the big Georgian was too proud and he paid the price for it last week when Virgil whacked him with the belt again. The Boss Man promised he would return soon to watch Roddy Piper's back. (79%)

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase & Virgil vs. Tito Santana & Koko B. Ware

The commentators talked about the Big Boss Man's condition and mentioned that Roddy Piper was also recuperating from a mild concussion suffered last Sunday at WWF March To WrestleMania when Ted DiBiase bashed him with the Million Dollar belt. Virgil did most of the work here, trading the advantage with his opponents, who got a couple of near-falls on the loyal servant. The Million Dollar Man was tagged in and put the Bird Man away with the Million Dollar Dream. (66%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Jim Duggan, who seemed very optimistic about his chances tonight against the Great Muta with Mr. Fuji barred from ringside. After mispronouncing Muta's name several times, Hacksaw predicted a resounding victory over the Great One that would send Muta, Fuji, and the rest of the Dojo Of Pain packing back to Japan, "TOUGH GUY...HOOOOOOOOOOO!" (79%)

The Great Muta vs. "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan

The Japanese Sensation walked out alone, as Tenay put over Mr. Fuji's alleged "mind-to-mind communication" technique, while Hacksaw marched with the American flag and his trusty 2x4. This was a solid contest, although not as long as their match-up at WWF March To WrestleMania, with the advantage going more back-and-forth as Albert noted that as goofy as Hacksaw looks, he obviously learned from his experience in their last bout. In fact, Duggan countered the mist by punching Muta in the jaw as he was preparing to spew it, sending the green mist spraying in the face of referee Danny Marsh, who fell to the mat and signaled for the bell as he clutched at his eyes. The bell rang, awarding the decision to Duggan via disqualification, but Duggan continued to go after Muta, slugging it out with the Great One. The slugfest continued until a caramel-skinned, wide, bald man covered with scars charged down the aisle, grabbing Hacksaw's 2x4 before entering the ring and whacking it across Hacksaw's back repeatedly. Finally, Duggan collapsed to the canvas as Tenay identified the interloper as Caribbean legend Abdullah The Butcher! The Sudanese Madman retrieved the American flag from the corner and began jabbing the flagpole down into Duggan's face, as a grinning Mr. Fuji waddled out into the aisleway and nodded his head in approval. Abdullah and Muta continued their vicious assault until several WWF referees intervened and Fuji led his men away from the carnage. Abdullah took the flag and flagpole with him as they left. (72%)

After a commercial break, "The Brother Love Show" began with Brother Love talking about how "looooove" cannot always be unconditional, and things can change. He claimed that sometimes people turn into "big fat losers undeserving of loooooove", introducing his guest this week, Rick Martel, who walked out in street clothes, looking very humble and walking with a bit of a limp. Martel explained that he was no longer "The Model", and then shocked the fans by announcing that due to cumulative back injuries, exacerbated by Bad News Brown's assault last Monday on Prime Time Wrestling, he would be retiring from professional wrestling. He expressed guilt and remorse for the horrible things he has done over the last couple of years, from stabbing Tito Santana in the back to blinding Jake Roberts with his "Arrogance" cologne to injuring the Texas Tornado, and said he wanted to be remembered for the good things, such as holding the WWF Tag Team Championship as a member of Strike Force with Santana. Martel added that he was grateful for Kevin Von Erich's help and went on to praise the Texas Twister, mentioning that he might have a match or two in him before he's through for good. All the while, Love made faces as if what he was hearing from Martel was making him sick. As Martel was saying that he wanted to somehow make up for what he had done, Slick appeared along with Bad News Brown and insulted his former client, calling him a whiny crybaby and telling him to take his sob story back to Canada. The Doctor Of Style brought up Martel's claim about having a couple of matches left in him and challenged him to back it up by wrestling Bad News next week. Martel thought about it for a moment and told Slick he had a deal, promising to see them next week before walking off the set to a nice reaction from the fans. (70%)

Mean Gene Okerlund was back in the locker room with Jimmy Hart and The Mountie, who was preparing to face Ricky Steamboat tonight. The Mouth Of The South claimed that the Dragon was being indicted on arson charges, and the Mountie vowed to bring him to justice...NEXT! (79%)

The Mountie vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat

Jimmy Hart accompanied his corrupt Canadian law enforcer for what turned out to be a pretty good match-up, as the commentators mentioned that the Dragon was working his way up the ladder and should soon be in line for a crack at Mr. Perfect's WWF Intercontinental Championship. The Mountie looked good, overpowering Steamboat and gaining a few near-falls, as well as wearing him down with a painful double-chicken-wing submission, which Steamboat fought out of with the crowd cheering him on. After some more action, the Dragon was able to finish the Mountie off with the Reign Of Fire, much to the chagrin of the Mouth Of The South. (73%)

Following the match, as Ricky Steamboat was out at ringside greeting some of his fans, Mr. Perfect sprinted out and blindsided him, putting the Dragon down with a shot from his WWF Intercontinental belt. Perfect draped the gold over his shoulder as he laid in some stiff kicks on the Dragon, yelling at Steamboat about embarrassing Perfect in the tag team match last Sunday at WWF March To WrestleMania. The Flawless One finally stopped his attack after telling Steamboat that he was the "ONLY perfect Intercontinental Champion there ever will be!" (83%)

After the final commercial break, there was a red carpet in the ring, with a conference table set up with chairs around it. Mean Gene Okerlund was there as well holding a microphone, alongside WWF President Andre The Giant, who got a huge pop from the fans when Okerlund announced his name. Okerlund explained that they were there to oversee the official contract signing for WrestleMania VII on Sunday, April 28, pitting this year's Royal Rumble winner, Randy Savage, against WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior for "the richest prize in all of sports". Mean Gene then introduced the two superstars, first the Macho Man, followed by the WWF Champion himself, who stared each other down as they sat on opposite sides of the table, surrounded by various WWF agents and officials. Showing their contrast in personalities, Savage looked the contract over very thoroughly before signing it, while the Warrior affixed his signature almost immediately. Afterwards, they both got to their feet and exchanged words, becoming more heated as President Andre warned them to keep cool. However, the advice fell on deaf ears, as the Warrior flipped the table over and got right into Savage's face, going nose-to-nose and shoving each other while the officials tried to break them up. The staredown continued, with Andre in the middle trying to keep them separated, as Albert and Tenay signed off. (90%)

Overall: 77%

Rating: 6.89

Attendance: 7,046

Ticket Sales: $422,760

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SUNDAY, APRIL 7, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING

Booker: Ed Ferrera (Writer)

Quality: 67%

Rating: 5.29

Attendance: 7,010

Ticket Sales: $420,600

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It's early yet, but here is how the WrestleMania VII card is shaping up so far...

WWF Championship Match: Ultimate Warrior [champion] vs. Randy Savage

WWF Tag Team Title Match: The Hart Foundation [champions] vs. The Nasty Boys

Jake Roberts vs. Rick Rude

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, APRIL 8, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura kicked things off LIVE from ringside, announcing tonight's lineup: the first interview with Rick Rude since his return to the WWF last week, the Dynamite Kid taking on Crush, Bad News Brown and the Bushwhackers in action, Randy Savage meeting Hawk in the main event, and a whole lot more.

The catchy tune of "Jive Soul Bro" cranked up as Slick strutted down to the ring and took the microphone from ring announcer Howard "The Fink" Finkel. The Doctor Of Style claimed to be the only man capable of introducing his man, one of the most feared and lethal "brothers" walking this planet, and the man who ended Rick Martel's career... directly from Harlem, New York, BAD NEWS BROWN! Bad News marched out with his trademark scowl on his face, wearing his usual black trunks and black boots with one black glove on his right hand. (71%)

Bad News Brown vs. Louie Spicolli

Slick exited out to ringside as Bad News went right after Spicolli, giving his younger opponent a sound, one-sided thrashing. The commentators discussed Brown's upcoming bout with Rick Martel this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event, calling it possibly the last match of Martel's career. After toying with the youngster, Bad News put Spicolli away with the Ghetto Blaster enzuigiri kick. (66%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan briefly argued over the return of Bad News Brown and the impending retirement of Rick Martel, before announcing that the Ultimate Warrior would be defending his WWF Championship this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event against their first guest tonight, Ted DiBiase, who entered the studio with Virgil and greeted the Brain. The Million Dollar Man said that it was about time he was granted another shot at the WWF Title and claimed that he would become a "double champion" on Saturday night: the WWF Champion, and the Million Dollar Champion. When asked about Roddy Piper, DiBiase gloated over he and Virgil giving both Hot Rod and the Big Boss Man concussions, and hoped that they would have enough sense to give up and not come back, or else he would force them both out of action again, this time permanently. DiBiase added that Virgil would be by his side during his match with the Warrior this Saturday, just in case Piper tries to stick his nose where it doesn't belong, and he would be adding the WWF Championship gold to the Million Dollar Corporation's assets. (85%)

Backstage at the arena, cameras caught the Powers Of Pain bursting into a locker room and assaulting Animal from behind. Using the element of surprise and the numbers advantage, Warlord & Barbarian hammered the Legion Of Doom member with punches, kicks, and heavy forearms across the back, before hurling him into the row of lockers. With Paul Ellering shouting encouragement, the Powers tossed Animal head-first against the brick wall and began to stomp him on the floor until Hawk rushed in and they took off as Hawk yelled for help for his tag team partner. (73%)

The Bushwhackers (Luke & Butch) vs. "Playboy" Buddy Rose & Brooklyn Brawler

Your basic competitive squash featuring some offense from the Playboy & Brawler, as the commentators announced that Butch & Luke would be taking on Power & Glory on this weekend's Saturday Night's Main Event. They also put the Bushwhackers over for their hard-working effort against the Hart Foundation last week, while the New Zealanders ended this one when Luke covered the Brawler following the Bushwhacker Battering Ram. (66%)

In the studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan talked about this past Saturday night's Great Muta/Jim Duggan rematch, which featured the WWF debut of the infamous Abdullah The Butcher as he ran in out of nowhere and attacked Hacksaw, before introducing Abdullah and Mr. Fuji as their next guests. Fuji waddled in with a devious grin on his evil face and sat down, while the Butcher wandered into the room, shirtless, chewing on some raw, bloody meat. The Brain put the Butcher over as a sadistic, bloodthirsty legend in the sport who has been banned in "numerous states, provinces, and countries across the globe", while Gorilla asked Fuji how he came to acquire the services of the Sudanese Madman. Fuji explained that he wanted a master of agony and torture, and had come across Abdullah during his travels years ago, but had recently found him again through one of his talent scouts in Puerto Rico, where Fuji claimed that Abdullah was carving people up and covering the island red with his victims' blood. He decided to finally bring the Butcher to the WWF and unleash him on Jim Duggan, again insulting the United States. Fuji finished by issuing a challenge to Duggan that if he was looking for some revenge, he could face Abdullah one-on-one next week on Prime Time. (76%)

Backstage at the arena, Rick Martel was speaking with Tito Santana, apologizing for letting his ego get in the way two years ago when he broke up their Strike Force tag team. Santana forgave him and they shook hands as Santana wished his former partner luck this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event against Bad News Brown, which Martel appreciated. Martel then mentioned that he really wanted to retire as a champion, and suggested that if he can survive Bad News on Saturday, maybe they could re-form Strike Force for one night only to challenge the WWF Tag Team Champions in his final match. Santana accepted the offer and said it would be an honor. (67%)

Crush vs. Dynamite Kid

Ax seconded his Demolition protege, as the commentators brought up Demolition's brutal actions at WWF March To WrestleMania, where they hanged Davey Boy Smith with a dog collar. McMahon still wanted to know why Ax ordered Crush & Smash to abandon him in the handicap match and sacrificed himself to the Legion Of Doom, while these two engaged in a heated, energetic, "David vs. Goliath" style match-up. Crush controlled the Kid with suplexes and press slams, while Dynamite answered with speed, agility, and an unmatched intensity. Dynamite looked to be on the verge of victory, putting Crush down with a missile dropkick from the top turnbuckle before going back up to the top. However, Ax climbed on the apron and distracted referee Tim White, while Smash raced down the aisle and tripped up Dynamite, causing him to straddle the top turnbuckle. Ventura pointed out that Davey Boy Smith was not around to help his fellow British Bulldog due to injuries suffered at the hands of Demolition, as Crush climbed up with Dynamite and brought him crashing down to the canvas with a huge belly-to-belly superplex, after which he scored the three-count. Afterwards, Ax and Smash joined Crush in raining double-axhandles down on Dynamite until Ricky Steamboat sprinted out to make the save, sending Demolition running. (85%)

In the studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan ran through the lineup thus far for WrestleMania VII, including the grudge match between Jake Roberts and their next guest this evening, "Ravishing" Rick Rude, who sauntered into the room and embraced the Brain, his former manager. Heenan said it was great to see Rick back in the WWF and what a privilege it was for he and Monsoon to conduct Rude's first interview since his surprise reappearance last week. Monsoon interrupted and asked the Ravishing One exactly what he's been up to and why he did what he did to the Snake last week. Rude mentioned then-WWF President Jack Tunney suspending him last year, blaming it on jealousy, and claimed to have been plotting a comeback since that time. Rude told Monsoon that the whole "masked stalker" thing was orchestrated by him in order to mentally break Roberts down, explaining that the Snake prides himself on being the "master of mind games", so he thought he would turn the tables. The former WWF Intercontinental Champion bragged that he did what nobody else has ever done, and that was to beat Jake Roberts at the game of human chess, referring to him masquerading as Dr. Schultz last week as "checkmate". Rude suggested that Jake was on the edge of a nervous breakdown, and promised to knock him over that cliff at WrestleMania VII, which he said would be a "rude awakening" for Jake. (90%)

Back at the arena, Mean Gene Okerlund was in the locker room with Hawk, who was getting ready for his upcoming match against Randy Savage. Hawk wondered if the Macho Man had anything to do with the Powers Of Pain attacking Animal earlier, but vowed to annihilate Barbarian, Warlord, & Paul Ellering anyway. But first, the Legion Of Doom member was looking forward to locking up with Savage and dedicated the match to his "brother-in-paint", the Ultimate Warrior. "OOHHHHHH, WHAT A RRRRRUUUUUUUSSSSSSHHHHHH!" (83%)

Hawk vs. "Macho Man" Randy Savage

This was a hot brawl that went back and forth, both men getting in their trademark spots and playing to their strengths, Savage with his cunning and agility, Hawk with his raw power. The commentators hyped this weekend's WWF Title match pitting the Ultimate Warrior against Ted DiBiase, and wondered what kind of impact it would have on the Macho Man's title shot at WrestleMania VII if the Million Dollar Man were to win the championship on Saturday Night's Main Event. There were a few near-falls in this one, most notably Savage's narrow kick-out after Hawk blasted him with a flying clothesline from the top turnbuckle. After that kick-out, the Powers Of Pain appeared in the aisle, holding a groggy Animal while Paul Ellering slugged away on his former friend and protege. Naturally, this distracted Hawk and allowed Savage to nail him from behind with a double-axhandle, followed by a hotshot across the top rope. Savage quickly ascended to the top turnbuckle and dove with the Flying Elbowdrop, hooking the leg for the 1-2-3. Afterwards, the Macho Man invited Warlord & Barbarian to drag Animal down to the ring and get a piece of Hawk. As the Powers dragged Animal, and Savage stomped Hawk, the Ultimate Warrior came roaring down the aisle, punching both Barbarian & Warlord to free Animal, before heading into the squared circle. The WWF Champion chased the Macho Man from the ring, and Savage took off with the Powers Of Pain and Precious Paul. McMahon and Ventura closed the show as the Warrior pointed up the aisle at Savage, Ellering, Barbarian, & Warlord. (84%)

Overall: 77%

Rating: 5.85

Attendance: 7,001

Ticket Sales: $420,060

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SATURDAY, APRIL 13, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay introduced tonight's LIVE network broadcast, hyping the main event for the WWF Title featuring Ted DiBiase challenging the Ultimate Warrior, as well as Animal taking on the Barbarian, Rick Martel facing Bad News Brown, the Bushwhackers battling Power & Glory, Abdullah The Butcher's WWF wrestling debut against Koko B. Ware, and the Hart Foundation on "The Brother Love Show".

Abdullah The Butcher vs. Koko B. Ware

Mr. Fuji waddled out alongside the psychotic Butcher, as Tenay shed some light on Abdullah's history of bloodshed and terror throughout Japan, the Caribbean, Europe, Mexico, and now the WWF. Koko gave it the old college try with high-risk offense, but the Sudanese Madman beat him down and totally massacred him, tossing him out to the floor and battering him around ringside as the commentators hyped Abdullah's upcoming match with Jim Duggan this Monday on Prime Time Wrestling. Back in the ring, the Butcher finished off the Bird Man with a charging double-axhandle to the face that Tenay referred to as the "Meat Cleaver". Afterwards, Abdullah hurled Koko out of the ring on the orders of Fuji. (68%)

Power & Glory (Hercules & Paul "Romeo" Roma) vs. The Bushwhackers (Luke & Butch)

Slick, trailed by bodyguard Bad News Brown, escorted Romeo & Herc down to the ring for this solid tag team bout, in which both squads looked strong, using quick tags and unique double-teams. Energetic but not quite fast-paced, there were several near-falls from both sides, including Butch almost getting three on Roma following the Bushwhacker Battering Ram, but Hercules stopped the count. The presence of Bad News at ringside caused the commentators to briefly discuss Brown's match with Rick Martel later tonight, before distraction from the Doctor Of Style allowed Power & Glory to drop Butch with the Powerplex, after which Roma scored the pinfall. (76%)

After the match, Slick tossed the steel chain to Hercules, who wrapped it around his fist and then clocked both Bushwhackers with it. Paul Roma joined the Mighty One in stomping Butch & Luke until the Rhodes Family charged down the aisle, armed with a bullrope with cowbell attached, and chased Power & Glory out of the ring. Romeo, Herc, Bad News Brown, & Slick took off, making threatening gestures toward Dusty & Dustin, who held their bullrope and cowbell aloft as the crowd cheered them. (70%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed the Powers Of Pain and Paul Ellering, who announced that a match had been signed for WrestleMania VII pitting Warlord & Barbarian against the Legion Of Doom. Precious Paul claimed that his Powers would eradicate the LOD and take their place in wrestling history, but before that, they would prove their superiority in singles matches against Hawk & Animal, as the Barbarian faces Animal tonight, while the Warlord will face Hawk on Monday's Prime Time. (82%)

Barbarian vs. Animal

Paul Ellering accompanied his solitary Power Of Pain, as the commentators talked about Barbarian & Warlord's vicious backstage assault on Animal on Prime Time, as well as the recently announced POP/LOD match for WrestleMania VII. As expected, this was a total power struggle, with the Barbarian also using his slight edge in speed and agility to keep the Legion Of Doom member on his toes. Animal still seemed bruised from the attack on Monday night, but battled back with his rage and intensity and was on a roll, knocking down the Barbarian with a series of clotheslines before going to the top turnbuckle. At this point, Precious Paul signaled to the back, bringing out the Warlord as Animal clobbered Barbarian with a diving shoulderblock off the top. Warlord climbed up on the apron, distracting both Animal and referee Shane McMahon, while on the other side of the ring, Ellering appeared to be loading something into the Barbarian's boot. Meanwhile, Animal had had enough arguing and knocked the Warlord off the apron with a huge roundhouse right, before turning around straight into a nasty foot to the face from Barbarian, who quickly covered the LOD member for the 1-2-3. Afterwards, both Powers Of Pain prepared to punish Animal, but Hawk rushed out and chased them off. (80%)

Following a commercial break, the familiar gospel tune of "The Brother Love Show" was playing as Brother Love went through his usual "AHHHHHHH LOOOOOOOVVVE YYYYEEEEEEEWWWWWWWW!" routine, before talking about how some people "loooooove" gold and success, including his guests this week, the Hart Foundation. The WWF Tag Team Champions walked out onto the set to a nice pop and talked about being "fighting champions", taking on any and all challenges. Bret Hart announced that they had accepted Strike Force's challenge, and would defend the belts against Rick Martel & Tito Santana next week on Saturday Night's Main Event, adding that it should be a great match-up. Love accused the Harts of forgetting about the Nasty Boys coming up at WrestleMania VII, but Jim Neidhart informed him that they take each challenge one at a time and that the Nasties would get what was coming to them. Jimmy Hart unexpectedly appeared on the stage, whining about how sick he was of hearing about Strike Force, the Rockers, the Bushwhackers, and every other tag team except the Nasty Boys. The Mouth Of The South warned the titlists that he would never forget how they left him "high and dry" and weaseled out of his managerial contract, and promised that the Nasties would make the Harts' lives miserable on his behalf. The Mouth claimed that WrestleMania would start now, as Knobbs & Saggs suddenly assaulted the Anvil & Hit Man from behind, beating the champions down. With both Jimmy and Love egging them on, the Nasties battered the Hart Foundation with punches and stomps before leaving with the championship belts, to the Mouth's delight. (74%)

Jesse "The Body" Ventura was in the locker room along with Virgil and Ted DiBiase, who looked very confident as he discussed his WWF Title shot tonight against the Ultimate Warrior. The Million Dollar Man promised that after this evening, none of his detractors would be able to call him a "fake champion", because he would finally have the WWF Championship. DiBiase added that when he wins the title, he would send "that trashy-looking hunk of leather and tin they call the WWF belt" straight to the dump, replacing it with his own Million Dollar belt. Virgil also promised to keep an eye out for Roddy Piper, although he was still supposed to be at home recovering from his concussion. (85%)

Bad News Brown vs. Rick Martel

The Harlem streetfighter had Slick by his side, while Martel was no longer "The Model" and wore white trunks and boots similar to his Strike Force days. Albert mentioned that Strike Force's WWF Tag Team Championship shot next week hinges on whether or not Martel can survive this match, which was a very solid bout, mixing straight-ahead brawling with some surprisingly scientific mat wrestling from both men. Tenay recounted Brown's impressive history and claimed that he was an underrated grappler, not just a brawler, while also putting over Martel and lamenting his impending retirement. During the contest, Slick hopped up on the apron and attracted the attention of Martel, who walked over to his former manager and had some heated words with him. Meanwhile, Bad News snuck up from behind and went for the Ghetto Blaster, but Martel felt it coming and ducked, causing Bad News to inadvertently kick the Doctor Of Style in the face, knocking him to the floor. Martel wasted no time in wrapping Bad News up in a reverse cradle for the three-count. Afterwards, Bad News jumped the former Model as he was celebrating and growled about ending his career for good, until the Texas Twister flew down the aisle and made the save before anymore damage could be done. (78%)

In the locker room, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior, who rambled about money being the root of all evil, springing forth soulless devils like Ted DiBiase and Randy Savage. The Warrior vowed to bankrupt the Million Dollar Man tonight and uphold the integrity of the WWF Title, right through to WrestleMania VII, where he predicted that he would vanquish the Macho Man and exile him to the farthest corner of the universe, once and for all. (94%)

WWF Championship Match: Ultimate Warrior [champion] vs. "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase

The commentators hyped this as one of the biggest main events ever on television, as Virgil marched out alongside the self-proclaimed Million Dollar Champion. The Warrior charged out and started off fast and furious as usual, but the superior ring skills of the veteran DiBiase eventually took over and slowed down the pace, as he worked over the WWF Champion with a variety of holds and maneuvers, showing that the Million Dollar Man came prepared. The commentators brought up the Nasty Boys stealing the Hart Foundation's WWF Tag Team Championship belts earlier and wondered if DiBiase would be able to "steal" the WWF Title here, as the Warrior began to make a comeback, no-selling DiBiase's punches and kicks. Warrior opened up with big right hands before running off the ropes for a clothesline, but DiBiase sidestepped the WWF Champion and sent him sailing over the top rope to the floor, where Virgil got in some cheap shots. While DiBiase distracted referee Earl Hebner, Virgil raised the Million Dollar belt, preparing to hit the Warrior with it, but Roddy Piper emerged from the crowd behind the lackey and grabbed the belt out of his hands. Virgil turned and began slugging it out with the Rowdy Scot, drawing the attention of the Million Dollar Man and allowing the Warrior to crawl back into the ring, where he clotheslined DiBiase in the back of the head before scooping him up and dropping him with the Gorilla Press. The WWF Champion followed up with the Warrior Splash off the ropes to earn the victory for another successful title defense. Afterwards, a dazed DiBiase joined the scuffle at ringside and brawled with Hot Rod and Virgil up the aisle. (86%)

While the Ultimate Warrior celebrated with his WWF Championship after the match, Randy Savage sprinted out and climbed to the top turnbuckle behind Warrior. When the Warrior turned around, the Macho Man dove with the flying double-axhandle, but Warrior held up the title belt and Savage crashed onto it, hurting his hands. The Warrior took immediate advantage of the stunned Savage, quickly clotheslining him over the top rope to the floor and warning him not to re-enter the squared circle. The frustrated Macho Man cursed the Warrior as he rubbed his sore hands and backed up the aisle slowly. Albert and Tenay signed off as the Warrior and the Macho Man exchanged threats from a distance. (90%)

Overall: 81%

Rating: 6.30

Attendance: 7,524

Ticket Sales: $451,440

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SUNDAY, APRIL 14, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING

Booker: George Scott (Writer)

Quality: 67%

Rating: 5.23

Attendance: 7,506

Ticket Sales: $450,360

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Here is the updated card for April 28's WrestleMania VII...

WWF Championship Match: Ultimate Warrior [champion] vs. Randy Savage

WWF Tag Team Title Match: The Hart Foundation [champions] vs. The Nasty Boys

Jake Roberts vs. Rick Rude

Legion Of Doom vs. Powers Of Pain

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, APRIL 15, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura opened the show LIVE from ringside, announcing the following lineup for tonight: Ricky Steamboat & Dynamite Kid taking on Demolition in the main event, Hawk battling the Warlord one-on-one, Jim Duggan facing Abdullah The Butcher, Les Canadiens in action, a special interview with Jake Roberts, and more.

Backstage, Sean Mooney interviewed Mr. Fuji and Abdullah The Butcher, who was bashing his head against a locker until finally a little bit of blood began to trickle down from the scars on his forehead. Fuji said that this was Jim Duggan's final opportunity to give up and go home before the Butcher hacks him into tiny, bite-size pieces tonight. (69%)

"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan vs. Abdullah The Butcher

Mr. Fuji waddled out behind the Madman From Sudan, who was carrying the American flag and flagpole he stole from Hacksaw a couple of weeks ago. As one might expect, this was an all-out brawl, with both men tearing into each other with brutal punches, kicks, headbutts, eye gouges, and facerakes. Neither man even attempted a pin, more intent on destroying each other instead. After a few minutes of ruthless action, Abdullah went for the flagpole while Duggan retrieved his 2x4, drawing a double-disqualification as they both went after one another with their chosen weapons. After the bell rang, they brawled up the aisle and disappeared through the curtains, while Fuji still seemed pleased at ringside. (73%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan discussed the frightening presence of Abdullah The Butcher in the WWF, before introducing their first guest this evening, WWF President Andre The Giant, who lumbered in and shook hands with Gorilla. Gorilla congratulated the President on putting together a fantastic card thus far for WrestleMania VII, naming off a few of the top matches for the big event. Andre thanked him and announced that he had some additions to the card: the Rhodes Family taking on Power & Glory in a "Coin Toss" specialty match, Ted DiBiase defending the Million Dollar belt against Roddy Piper, and Ricky Steamboat challenging Mr. Perfect for the WWF Intercontinental Championship. Heenan was surprised at that last announcement and did a "spit take" before complaining that the Dragon just returned to the WWF and had not yet earned a title shot. Andre told the Brain that Steamboat was a world-class athlete and had been very impressive since his return, also pointing out that he never received a proper rematch for the belt after losing it to the Honky Tonk Man in 1987. Heenan was flustered, but Andre just laughed at him and expressed his hope that the WWF fans would enjoy WrestleMania VII on Sunday, April 28. (92%)

Back at the arena, Sean Mooney was in the locker room to interview Dino Bravo, The Mountie, and Jimmy Hart, who put over Les Canadiens as a dangerously underrated tag team and claimed that they would prove it this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event against the Rhodes Family. The Mountie & Bravo spoke to each other in French while pointing and laughing at Mooney, before heading out with the Mouth Of The South. (77%)

Les Canadiens (Dino Bravo & The Mountie) vs. Duane Gill & Barry Hardy

Jimmy Hart was as annoying as always, constantly babbling through his megaphone as Les Canadiens squashed their opponents, giving the commentators the opportunity to discuss the new WrestleMania VII matches that were just announced. They also hyped the Canadians' upcoming bout with Dustin & Dusty Rhodes on this weekend's Saturday Night's Main Event, as the Great White Northerners throughly dismantled Hardy & Gill, finishing off Hardy with Le Bombe De Rougeau. (59%)

In the studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan ran through the updated WrestleMania VII card, including the "Coin Toss" specialty match, which Monsoon explained: prior to the bout, there will be a coin toss to determine the stipulation; if the Rhodes Family wins, it will be a Texas Bullrope Match, but if Power & Glory win the toss, it will be a Steel Chain Match. Then they brought in Slick along with Power & Glory as their next guests. The Doctor Of Style's bodyguard, Bad News Brown, accompanied them and stood silently behind Slick's chair when he sat down, scaring the Brain a bit. Monsoon asked them about the upcoming "Coin Toss" match against the Rhodes Family, at which point they all smiled, except for Bad News of course. Slick called the Rhodes boys "stupid" for falling into their trap, claiming that the Chain Match is Power & Glory's specialty, even though Monsoon pointed out that they've never even been in a Chain Match as a tag team. Hercules explained that he has been "master of the chain" ever since the steel links were forged and joined together on Mount Olympus by Zeus himself, and that he has taught Paul Roma everything he needs to know. Romeo confirmed the story and said that he could hardly wait to make "those two little piggies" squeal and bleed all the way home, no matter what the stipulations were. (81%)

Mean Gene Okerlund was backstage at the arena, interviewing the Legion Of Doom, who roared about blazing a trail of death and destruction right through the Powers Of Pain at WrestleMania VII. Animal promised to watch Hawk's back tonight against the Warlord, since he knew that Paul Ellering would be at ringside and that the Barbarian couldn't be too far behind. Hawk said that it would be a "RRRRRUUUUUUUSSSSSSHHHHHH" for the Warlord one-on-one...NEXT! (87%)

Warlord vs. Hawk

Paul Ellering strode out alongside his Power Of Pain, while McMahon and Ventura discussed the brutal on-going war between the Legion Of Doom and the Powers Of Pain, hoping that the issue could be resolved at WrestleMania VII. This was another total power brawl similar to the Animal/Barbarian match from Saturday Night's Main Event, with Hawk outmaneuvering the bigger and stronger Warlord, who used his immense muscle to overpower Hawk. The advantage shifted back and forth until Hawk was tripped up by Precious Paul as he ran into the ropes, allowing Warlord to plant him with a powerslam. He hooked the leg for the pin but it was broken up by Animal, who charged out when he saw Ellering's interference on the monitor backstage. Referee Tim White immediately called for the bell, signaling a disqualification victory for the Warlord, who was being double-teamed by the angry LOD. The Barbarian rushed out just as the LOD were about to set up the Doomsday Device and saved his fellow Power Of Pain. Warlord, Barbarian, & Ellering took off while Animal & Hawk threatened them from the squared circle and said they would get them at WrestleMania. (79%)

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan, in the studio, talked about Rick Rude's recent return to the WWF and his vile, pre-meditated attack on Jake Roberts, whom they introduced as their guest. The Snake slithered in wearing a jacket and snakeskin pants, looking very paranoid and pissed-off once again as he sat at the desk and stared at the Brain. Heenan claimed that he didn't have anything to do with the Ravishing One anymore and that he was very sorry for what had happened a couple of weeks ago, while Roberts snapped back that he wasn't buying Heenan's story, but that it didn't matter because he wasn't going to trust anybody again. He did acknowledge that Dr. Schultz had cleared him to return to the ring and in fact encouraged Jake to exact revenge against Rude at WrestleMania, which Jake promised would happen "come hell or highwater". Monsoon brought up their last feud in 1988 which involved Jake's wife, Cheryl, at which point Heenan began to egg Jake on, teasing him about Rude almost breaking up their marriage since "everybody" knew that Cheryl wanted to be with a real man like Ravishing Rick. This set Jake off, as he jumped out of his seat and attempted to lunge at Heenan, who abandoned his post while the studio security guards flooded into the room to drag the raging Snake away. (84%)

Back at the arena, Mean Gene Okerlund was in the locker room with Ax, Smash, & Crush of Demolition, who were preparing for their upcoming match with the Dynamite Kid & Ricky Steamboat. When asked why he ordered Crush & Smash to abandon him during the handicap match against the Legion Of Doom at WWF March To WrestleMania, Ax explained that he sacrificed himself to become a martyr and a better manager, something he learned from their former master, Mr. Fuji. Ax threw out a challenge, saying that if Dynamite can survive tonight's match and if Davey Boy Smith ever gets out of the "kennel", Demolition wanted to put the British Bulldogs to sleep at WrestleMania VII. Crush & Smash then held up the studded leather dog collar, complete with reinforced steel chain leash, that they used to hang Davey Boy, as Ax added the stipulation that they wanted a tag team Dog Collar Match. Demolition all cackled before marching off. (79%)

Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat & Dynamite Kid

Ax marched out alongside his Demolition "brothers-in-paint" as the commentators brought up last week's Dynamite/Crush match in which Smash, Ax, and the Dragon all got involved, leading to this main event. They also mentioned that Davey Boy Smith was still recovering from Demolition's hanging at WWF March To WrestleMania, but should be back soon. This one turned out to be a very heated war, with Crush & Smash pulling out the heavy artillery and dominating Dynamite, cutting the ring in half and utilizing power and quick tags. Dynamite kicked out of all pin attempts, showing his heart and stamina as he absorbed an inhuman amount of punishment from the former WWF Tag Team Champions while the crowd rallied behind him. Ventura accused Steamboat of "goldbricking" on the apron, not really wanting to get involved because of his upcoming WWF Intercontinental Title shot at WrestleMania VII, but McMahon shot that theory down. Finally, the Kid rolled out of the way of a flying kneedrop from Crush and scrambled over to his corner after nailing Smash with a standing dropkick when he ran in as well. The Dragon was tagged in and chaos erupted as all four men slugged it out in the ring, before Dynamite and Smash tumbled out to ringside to continue their fight. Steamboat wasted no time in going to the top turnbuckle and flattening Crush with the Reign Of Fire, but there was no official to count as referee Joey Marella was busy trying to separate Smash and Dynamite. Ax climbed up on the apron to interfere, but Steamboat knocked him back down to the floor with a beautiful savate kick. When Steamboat turned back to his opponent, Mr. Perfect was waiting and waylayed him with the Intercontinental belt to the head. Perfect quickly exited the ring and hid while Crush covered Steamboat, as the ref returned to the in-ring action and administered the three-count. Afterwards, the combined forces of Demolition and Mr. Perfect assaulted Steamboat & Dynamite, until Davey Boy Smith made a surprise appearance, sprinting to the ring swinging a metal folding chair to clear the heels out of the squared circle. Smith shouted, "You're ON!" in response to Demolition's earlier Dog Collar Match challenge, which McMahon and Ventura hyped as the show ended. (85%)

Overall: 79%

Rating: 6.30

Attendance: 7,547

Ticket Sales: $452,820

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In some unfortunate news, Luke of the Bushwhackers tore his calf during a house show tag team match against Les Canadiens on Tuesday night. He could be out for close to a year, and we wish him luck during his recovery.

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SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay kicked off the LIVE network broadcast by hyping tonight's program, featuring the Hart Foundation defending the WWF Tag Team Championship against the reunited Strike Force, the Rhodes Family battling Les Canadiens, Koko B. Ware taking on the Great Muta, Mr. Perfect in action, WWF President Andre The Giant on "The Brother Love Show", and in the huge tag team main event, the Ultimate Warrior & Roddy Piper joining forces against the Million Dollar Team.

The Great Muta vs. Koko B. Ware

Mr. Fuji waddled out with the facepainted Muta for this surprisingly good opening match-up, most likely the Bird Man's best match in his WWF career. The commentators mostly talked about issues related to WrestleMania VII, but Koko and Muta put on a very fast-paced, aerial-based contest, trading high-risk maneuvers and close near-falls as the crowd got more and more into it as the action got hotter. In the end, Muta put the Bird Man away with the Rising Sun. (77%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed the Rhodes Family, who were preparing to face Les Canadiens. Dustin began to talk about the upcoming "Coin Toss" match against Power & Glory at WrestleMania VII, but Dusty interrupted his son's youthful exuberance and told him to focus on tonight's tough veteran opponents, the Mountie & Dino Bravo. Dustin immediately shut up while the American Dream yammered on about "gettin' funky like a monkey" this evening. (86%)

Les Canadiens (Dino Bravo & The Mountie) vs. Rhodes Family (Dusty & Dustin Rhodes)

Jimmy Hart escorted his Canadiens, waving the Canadian flag while jabbering through his red-and-white megaphone. This was a solid old-school tag team bout that saw the Canadians focus on the rookie Dustin, pounding him with vicious double-team maneuvers and dirty heel tactics. At one point, Dustin mounted a comeback and had an opportunity to tag out, but ignored it and took the Mountie down with the Rodeo Bulldog for a near-fall, broken up by Bravo. This led to another heat sequence on Dustin, who eventually made the hot tag the next chance he had, bringing in daddy Dusty, who cleaned house. Soon after, the American Dream pinned Bravo following the Double Bionic Elbow. (77%)

After a commercial break, Brother Love was on the set of "The Brother Love Show", wailing at the pulpit about "looooove", when he was interrupted by WWF President Andre The Giant, his scheduled guest this week. Love told "Brother Andre" he was early, to which the Giant responded that Love should refer to him as "Brother President", and since he was the WWF President, as well as being 7'4" and 500 pounds, he could basically come out whenever he wanted. Andre informed the red-faced preacher that due to all the attacks perpetrated on "The Brother Love Show" over the years, including last week when the Nasty Boys blindsided the Hart Foundation and stole the WWF Tag Team Championship belts, he was putting Love and his show on probation, which got a big pop from the fans. Love tried to protest, but Andre grabbed the microphone away and ordered the Nasty Boys to return the tag title belts to him immediately. Jerry Saggs & Brian Knobbs walked onto the stage carrying the gold and briefly taunted the President with them, predicting that the belts would legally belong to them after WrestleMania VII, before handing them over. Andre held the belts up and called the Hart Foundation out to retrieve the gold, but he got more than he bargained for when Jim Neidhart & Bret Hart came storming out and began brawling with the Nasties. A horde of WWF agents and officials quickly arrived on the scene to break it up, as Andre returned the championship belts to the Anvil & Hit Man, wishing them good luck at WrestleMania. (84%)

WWF Intercontinental Title Match: Mr. Perfect [champion] vs. Rob Zakowski

Prior to the opening bell, Mr. Perfect announced that just to show Ricky Steamboat and the rest of the wrestling world what a "perfect" Intercontinental Champion he was, he had decided to put his title on the line tonight. The commentators pointed out that Zakowski had yet to score a victory in the WWF and did not rate a title shot, but acknowledged that he had shown some flashes of brilliance and that Perfect may be taking him a little bit too lightly. Perfect dominated the majority of the contest, as Tenay and Albert hyped his upcoming championship defense against the Dragon at WrestleMania VII, until Zakowski capitalized on Perfect's cockiness and made a surprise comeback, firing back with his unique high-flying offense mixed with some martial arts. The Jean-Claude Van Damme lookalike shocked the audience by sneaking in a couple of near-falls, but Perfect straightened up and snared Zakowski in the Perfectplex for the 1-2-3. (79%)

Following the match, Mr. Perfect assaulted the departing Rob Zakowski from behind, beating him down and slapping him across the face while yelling at him about trying to embarrass the "perfect" WWF Intercontinental Champion in front of the world on network television. Perfect continued to humiliate the youngster until Ricky Steamboat sprinted out and went to the top turnbuckle, diving with the Reign Of Fire when Perfect turned to face him. The Flawless One bailed out afterwards as the Dragon checked on Zakowski. (91%)

A video package aired featuring highlights of Rick Martel & Tito Santana's tag team days as Strike Force. They were shown winning the WWF Tag Team Championship from the then-heel Hart Foundation in October of 1987 when Jim Neidhart submitted to Martel's Boston Crab, after which clips of Strike Force's successful title defenses against teams such as the Harts, the Bolsheviks, the Islanders, the New Dream Team (Greg Valentine & Dino Bravo), the Rougeau Brothers, and the Conquistadors were shown. The cheesy music video for their horrible "Girls In Cars" song was briefly featured, before they were shown losing the belts to Demolition at WrestleMania IV, followed by Martel abandoning Santana during a tag team match against the Brain Busters at WrestleMania V, thus breaking up Strike Force. Fast-forward to last week when Martel and Santana made up after Martel announced his forthcoming retirement, and then live to the locker room, where the reunited Strike Force were getting a pep talk from road agent Tony Garea, who held the WWF Tag Team Championship with a young Martel twice in 1981. Nice nod to history and a classy send-off for Martel's retirement. (70%)

WWF Tag Team Title Match: The Hart Foundation (Bret "Hit Man" Hart & Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart) [champions] vs. Strike Force (Rick Martel & Tito Santana)

While the challengers made their entrance wearing the old white Strike Force jackets, trunks, and boots, Tenay went through an abbreviated history of Rick Martel's career, marking his pro debut in 1972 as a bright-eyed 16-year-old through his various WWF Tag Team Championship reigns, adding that he won singles titles throughout his native Canada, the United States, Japan, and around the world. This was a well-worked, clean, scientific-style match-up that started off with a handshake between Martel and the Anvil, and continued with some basic back-and-forth old-school action, as the commentators pondered what would happen if Strike Force won the belts, since Martel would be retiring. After a contest filled with narrow near-falls and athletic double-team maneuvers from both squads, the Hit Man caught Martel in a crucifix to earn another successful title defense. Afterwards, all four men shook hands and Neidhart, Hart, and Santana carried Martel around on their shoulders, allowing him to hold the championship belts, as the crowd cheered him. (82%)

Jesse "The Body" Ventura was backstage along with Ted DiBiase & Virgil, who were warming up for the main event against the Ultimate Warrior & Roddy Piper. The Million Dollar Man blamed Hot Rod for spoiling his WWF Title shot last week and claimed that he had the Warrior all but beaten before the Rowdy One got involved. He said that tonight Piper wouldn't be able to attack from behind, and the Million Dollar Team would be able to kill two birds with one stone, a week before WrestleMania VII. (90%)

Elsewhere in another locker room, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Roddy Piper & WWF Champion Ultimate Warrior, who both looked very intense as they snorted and grunted about their individual matches coming up at WrestleMania VII. The Warrior then paced around the room, scaring Gene, while Hot Rod ranted and raved about what a strange tag team he and Warrior were, as well as concussions and the Million Dollar belt. To cap it off, the Warrior smeared some of his war paint on Piper's face before they ran off together. (100%)

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase & Virgil vs. Ultimate Warrior & "Rowdy" Roddy Piper

Tenay claimed that despite the "star power" of Piper & Warrior, the so-called Million Dollar Team had to be the favorites here due to their experience working together over the last several years. As expected, this was a heated, chaotic brawl that served mostly as hype for WrestleMania VII, with the fans popping like mad as Virgil & DiBiase worked over Piper, hoping to soften him up for WrestleMania. Eventually, after the WWF Champion received the hot tag and ignited a donnybrook, the match broke down and referee Earl Hebner lost control, as Hot Rod knocked Virgil out cold with a roundhouse right. While the official tried to get Piper, who was not the legal man, out of the ring, Randy Savage tore down the aisle carrying a metal folding chair and slid into the squared circle. The Macho Man charged at the Warrior but the WWF Champion ducked and Savage accidentally plastered the Million Dollar Man with the chair. Warrior quickly tossed Savage out to the floor and pounced on DiBiase with the Warrior Splash to pick up the three-count when the referee returned to the action. Afterwards, the Warrior rolled DiBiase out under the bottom rope with his foot before he and the Rowdy Scot celebrated their victory as Albert and Tenay signed off. (85%)

Overall: 83%

Rating: 6.92

Attendance: 7,527

Ticket Sales: $451,620

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SUNDAY, APRIL 21, 1991 -- WWF SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING

Booker: Todd Gordon (Writer)

Quality: 69%

Rating: 5.23

Attendance: 7,505

Ticket Sales: $450,300

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Once again, the updated card for WrestleMania VII on Sunday, April 28...

WWF Championship Match: Ultimate Warrior [champion] vs. Randy Savage

WWF Intercontinental Title Match: Mr. Perfect [champion] vs. Ricky Steamboat

WWF Tag Team Title Match: The Hart Foundation [champions] vs. The Nasty Boys

Million Dollar Belt Match: Ted DiBiase [self-proclaimed champion] vs. Roddy Piper

Dog Collar Match: The British Bulldogs vs. Demolition

Texas Bullrope/Steel Chain Match: Rhodes Family vs. Power & Glory

Jake Roberts vs. Rick Rude

Legion Of Doom vs. Powers Of Pain

[Chrononaut]

MONDAY, APRIL 22, 1991 -- WWF PRIME TIME WRESTLING

Vince McMahon and Jesse "The Body" Ventura kicked off the show LIVE from ringside, hyping this Sunday's WrestleMania VII as well as tonight's program: the Rockers taking on the Powers Of Pain, Jim Duggan & Koko B. Ware teaming up against Abdullah The Butcher & The Great Muta, Roddy Piper and the Undertaker both in action, and in the big six-man main event, Mr. Perfect joining forces with Demolition to battle the British Bulldogs & Ricky Steamboat.

The Undertaker vs. Scott Taylor

Brother Love escorted his Pale Destroyer, as McMahon announced that Rick Rude would be the guest on "The Brother Love Show" this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event. Squash city here as the Dead Man manhandled Taylor with ease while the commentators mostly talked about WrestleMania VII, ending when the Undertaker buried the youngster with the Tombstone. Afterwards, Love performed last rites while Undertaker dropped a handful of dirt on Taylor. (70%)

In the Prime Time studio, Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan hyped their interview later with the Number One Contender to the WWF Title, Randy Savage, before introducing their first guest tonight, "The King" Jerry Lawler, who walked into the room and shook hands with the Brain. Heenan put the King over as a man after his own heart, while Monsoon mentioned Lawler's recent challenges to Hulk Hogan, which have gone unanswered so far. Lawler explained that that was why he was on Prime Time tonight, to extend another offer to the Hulkster; since Hogan hadn't accepted his wrestling challenges, Lawler suggested a war of words. The King claimed that he would be the guest on a very special edition of "The Brother Love Show" this Sunday at WrestleMania VII, and challenged Hogan to show up as well. The Memphis legend said that this would be the only way to get the Hulkster to come face-to-face with him, calling Hogan's massive ego into question and bringing up the fact that Hogan has appeared at all six previous WrestleManias, and that if Hogan doesn't appear this Sunday, his streak will be over, since he isn't scheduled for a match. The King told Monsoon that the ball was in the Hulkster's court now, but he would be there waiting for him at WrestleMania. (85%)

The Great Muta & Abdullah The Butcher vs. "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan & Koko B. Ware

Mr. Fuji waddled out with his dangerous Dojo henchmen, as the commentators discussed the history behind this match, putting over the great Muta/Koko contest from this past weekend's Saturday Night's Main Event. This was a rather sloppy but entertaining tag team encounter, with neither duo having much experience as a team, but doing their best to work together. The bloodthirsty heels worked over the Bird Man, who eventually rolled out of the way of Muta's Rising Sun and made the hot tag to Hacksaw, while Muta tagged in the Butcher. Abdullah and Duggan slugged it out for a while with neither man gaining much of an advantage, until Duggan impressed the fans by scooping and slamming the 360-pound Madman From Sudan. Duggan tagged Koko back in and the match got a bit out of control, with all four men squaring off in the ring until the Bird Man knocked Muta out to the floor with a high dropkick and then crouched down behind Abdullah. Duggan charged and nailed Abdullah with the Three Point Stance, allowing Koko to get the schoolboy roll-up on the Butcher for the upset pinfall. Afterwards, Muta returned to the ring and helped the Butcher clear Hacksaw and the Bird Man out to ringside. (75%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed the Powers Of Pain and Paul Ellering, who announced that Warlord & Barbarian would be joining forces with Randy Savage this weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event to square off against the Legion Of Doom & Ultimate Warrior in a six-man tag team bout. Okerlund mentioned tonight's match with the Rockers, as well as this Sunday's war with the LOD at WrestleMania VII, asking Ellering if such a grueling schedule was wise. Precious Paul explained that it was a continuation of the POP's evolution into finely-tuned killing machines and predicted that they would pass the test and tear through the competition. (70%)

The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty) vs. Powers Of Pain (Barbarian & Warlord)

Jannetty & Michaels got a great pop upon their entrance, while Paul Ellering and his Powers received a round of boos. The commentators hyped the POP's upcoming WrestleMania VII match against the Legion Of Doom, as well as the big six-man bout the night before, while these two squads put on a classic "speed vs. power" contest, trading the advantage back and forth playing to their strengths. The Rockers scored several near-falls, but the Powers were able to overwhelm their smaller opponents when the Barbarian covered Michaels following the End Of Days. (83%)

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper vs. "Playboy" Buddy Rose

This started off as a comedy match, with Hot Rod making fun of the obese Playboy before going on to torture and punish him, bringing back memories of Piper's heel character in the mid '80s. McMahon and Ventura argued over the upcoming Million Dollar Belt match at WrestleMania VII between Piper and Ted DiBiase, while the Rowdy Scot put Rose away with the Sleeperhold for the submission. (71%)

After the match, Roddy Piper continued to take out his aggressions on Buddy Rose, punching and choking him on the canvas, until Ted DiBiase & Virgil stormed into the ring and jumped the Rowdy One, knocking him off the Playboy, who rolled out to the floor. The Million Dollar Man and his loyal lackey stomped and kicked Piper before DiBiase ordered Virgil to hold the Scotsman up, raising the Million Dollar belt over his head and threatening to give Piper another concussion. Before his plan could be executed, the Big Boss Man charged out and drove away the so-called Million Dollar Team with his nightstick. McMahon reminded viewers that Boss Man also suffered a concussion at the hands of DiBiase & Virgil, and was glad that he came out to save Hot Rod before serious long-term damage could be done. (82%)

In the studio, Gorilla Monsoon was relieved that Roddy Piper did not receive another concussion, while Bobby Heenan joked that it wouldn't have made a difference because Piper has been suffering from brain damage for years. They then ran through the entire WrestleMania VII card, ending with the WWF Championship main event featuring the Ultimate Warrior defending his title against their next guest, Randy Savage, who strutted in looking very intense. The Macho Man growled about how long he had been chasing the Warrior, and said that it was all coming to a head this Sunday when he finally gets his hands on the Warrior one-on-one, vowing to recapture the WWF Title. Savage recounted his long road to WrestleMania, including his victory in the 30-man Royal Rumble and the breathtaking Steel Cage Match win over Ricky Steamboat at WWF Battle Lines, calling himself "the hardest-working man in wrestling" as the only thing on his mind has been "my" WWF Championship. Monsoon questioned him about his recent misguided interference that cost he and Mr. Perfect the tag team match at WWF March To WrestleMania, plus causing Ted DiBiase & Virgil to lose to the Warrior & Roddy Piper this past weekend on Saturday Night's Main Event, inferring that the Warrior was outsmarting and frustrating the Macho Man. Savage admitted that he had made some miscalculations lately, but that none of it would matter come WrestleMania, and told Warrior he would get a taste of what was in store for him during the big six-man tag team match the previous evening on Saturday Night's Main Event, "OOOHHHHH YEEEEAAAHHHH...DIG IT!" (90%)

Back at the arena, Mean Gene Okerlund was in the locker room to interview WWF Intercontinental Champion Mr. Perfect, while Demolition were in the background warming up for tonight's six-man main event. Perfect claimed that Ricky Steamboat didn't deserve a title shot at WrestleMania VII, but he would give it to him anyway because he still wanted revenge from this year's Royal Rumble when the Dragon eliminated him. Perfect added that tonight and this Sunday, he would prove to Steamboat and everybody else exactly who the best Intercontinental Champion in the history of the WWF was, "and that's me, because I'M MR. PERFECT!" (94%)

Six-Man Tag Team Match: Mr. Perfect & Demolition (Smash & Crush) vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat & The British Bulldogs (Dynamite Kid & Davey Boy Smith)

Ax marched out with the heel contingent, as McMahon claimed that this main event was several weeks in the making, while Ventura brought up the fact that Demolition & Perfect teamed together in an eight-man elimination tag team match at last year's Survivor Series, so they had the edge tonight. This was a great, action-packed battle with all six men looking strong, although Davey Boy still seemed to be suffering from the effects of Demolition's hanging at WWF March To WrestleMania, causing the commentators to question the intelligence of the Bulldogs accepting the Dog Collar Match with Crush & Smash this Sunday at WrestleMania VII. After plenty of intense, athletic action, Davey Boy & Dynamite began brawling with Demolition at ringside, eventually slugging it out up the aisle and disappearing through the curtains, leaving Steamboat and Perfect to square off, giving a preview of their upcoming WWF Intercontinental Championship bout this Sunday. They kept it brief for obvious reasons, but did not disappoint, as they traded holds, counter-holds, and near-falls until the Dragon came off the top turnbuckle with the Reign Of Fire to score the surprising three-count, which got a huge pop from the crowd. (84%)

Following the match, McMahon went wild with hyperbole, calling Ricky Steamboat the odds-on favorite at WrestleMania VII due to his pinfall on Mr. Perfect tonight. As soon as the Dragon got up, Perfect attacked him from behind and opened up on him with a series of right hands, until Steamboat blocked a punch and began firing back on the WWF Intercontinental Champion. Perfect seemed dazed as Steamboat knocked him over the top rope to the floor with a beautiful standing dropkick, while the fans cheered the Dragon. Steamboat celebrated and motioned to his waist as McMahon and Ventura hyped WrestleMania VII this Sunday before closing the show. (91%)

Overall: 82%

Rating: 6.23

Attendance: 8,001

Ticket Sales: $480,060

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SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 1991 -- NBC/WWF PRESENT: SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT

Marv Albert and Mike Tenay introduced tonight's LIVE network broadcast, featuring the following lineup: the huge six-man tag team main event pitting the Ultimate Warrior & Legion Of Doom against the Powers Of Pain & Randy Savage, as well as the Big Boss Man & Roddy Piper taking on the Million Dollar Team, Rick Rude on "The Brother Love Show", the Texas Twister facing Bad News Brown, the Nasty Boys meeting the Conquistadors, and we will hear from Hulk Hogan!

The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs & Jerry Saggs) vs. The Conquistadors (Conquistador #1 & Conquistador #2)

Jimmy Hart accompanied his Nasty Boys as the commentators hyped their WWF Tag Team Championship shot tomorrow night at WrestleMania VII against the Hart Foundation. The masked Conquistadors put forth a nice effort in this competitive squash, but the Nasties outbrawled them and took it home when Saggs covered #2 following the Pit Stop Drop. (69%)

After the match, the Nasty Boys stomped the Conquistadors a few more times before tossing the masked men over the top rope to the floor. Jimmy Hart grabbed the microphone and announced that Saggs & Knobbs couldn't wait until tomorrow night and that they wanted to kick WrestleMania off a day early, calling out the Hart Foundation. The WWF Tag Team Champions raced down the aisle and into the squared circle, where they began hammering away on their Number One Contenders, who fired back with their own hard-hitting punches and kicks. Finally, the Anvil & Hit Man drove the Nasties out of the ring, predicting that the same thing would happen tomorrow night. (83%)

Backstage, Mean Gene Okerlund interviewed Kevin Von Erich, who was preparing to face Bad News Brown tonight. The Texas Twister first praised Rick Martel's change of heart and wished him a happy retirement, then told Bad News that he might be considered tough in Harlem, but the Von Erichs grew up wrestling bulls and steers in Texas, and he was ready to take Brown down a peg or two. (64%)

Bad News Brown vs. "Texas Twister" Kevin Von Erich

Slick escorted his personal bodyguard, and brought out Power & Glory with him for "protection purposes". This was a solid bout, with Brown controlling most of the action with deliberate and methodical brawling maneuvers, slowing down the pace, as the commentators hyped WrestleMania VII. Late in the match, Von Erich mounted a comeback and floored Bad News with a high cross-body off the ropes, drawing in Power & Glory, who blindsided the Twister. Referee Mark Johnson called for the bell, disqualifying Bad News, as Paul Roma & Hercules shoved the ref out of the way and continued their assault on the Twister, pounding him relentlessly. (74%)

As the bell kept ringing, Bad News Brown got up and joined Power & Glory in laying waste to Kevin Von Erich, as Slick shouted about this being a message to Dustin & Dusty Rhodes. Hercules retrieved his steel chain and began wrapping it around his fist as Paul Roma and Bad News held the groggy Texas Twister up for a shot, but the Rhodes Family ran out armed with their bullrope, chasing the heels from the ring. Bad News was a bit slow, however, and got bashed across the head with the cowbell, opening up a small cut. Tenay predicted that no matter who wins the coin toss, it would be a brutal family feud between Power & Glory and the Rhodes Family tomorrow night at WrestleMania VII. (73%)

Following a commercial break, "The Brother Love Show" began with Brother Love moaning about WWF President Andre The Giant's warning last week, calling it "unfair" and "another step in the unloving separation of church and state", before he said that he was looking forward to having Jerry Lawler as his guest tomorrow night at WrestleMania VII, and hoped that Hulk Hogan would be able to make it. Love added that his guest tonight was also eagerly anticipating WrestleMania, and introduced "Ravishing" Rick Rude, making his first televised appearance in front of a live crowd since his return to the WWF a few weeks ago. Rude received a rather loud heel pop as he greeted Love like an old friend and immediately began talking trash about Jake Roberts. He claimed that the last time they feuded, he took the Snake's wife, but this time he was going to take his sanity, pointing out that it wouldn't take much after the last couple of months. The Ravishing One again took full credit for his master plan with the masked stalkers, bragging about becoming "the new master of the mind game", at which point Roberts slowly walked out, standing several feet away from the set. Roberts was yelling but could not be heard, while Rude continued to run him down on Love's microphone, telling Jake that he already broke him down mentally, and tomorrow night at WrestleMania he would break him down physically. When the enraged Snake could take no more and tried to charge the stage, Rude called for security, who flooded out and held Jake back. The WWF agents and officials restrained Jake and forcibly dragged him away, while Rude mockingly told Jake to "sleep on it" and promised to see him tomorrow night. (84%)

Mean Gene Okerlund was in the locker room along with the Big Boss Man & Roddy Piper, who made a lot of noise about their tag team grudge match tonight against Virgil & Ted DiBiase. They briefly traded concussion stories before warning the so-called Million Dollar Team that they were going to give them a headache they would not soon forget. (86%)

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase & Virgil vs. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper & Big Boss Man

The Million Dollar Man did not bring the Million Dollar belt with him, telling the camera that Piper would get his "title shot" tomorrow night, then laughed. The face squad tore down the aisle and started off fast and furious, going right to work on the Million Dollar Team taking them by surprise. The commentators pointed out that the Boss Man & Piper had a lot of pent-up anger due to the concussions suffered, and were taking it out on the perpetrators. This one went back-and-forth with DiBiase & Virgil concentrating on the Boss Man, whom Tenay explained had the more serious concussion. Eventually, the big Georgian escaped from the heel corner and made the hot tag to Hot Rod, who rushed in and cleaned house, capping it off with a double noggin-knocker that knocked Virgil through the ropes out to the floor. Piper clawed and scratched the Million Dollar Man, showing his rage, while on the outside, Virgil yanked the groggy Boss Man off the apron and sent him head-first into the ringpost. Virgil grabbed Boss Man's nightstick and snuck around the ring, waiting for his opportunity, which came soon when DiBiase reversed Piper's Irish-whip, and when Piper hit the ropes, Virgil whacked him across the back of the head with the nightstick. Piper staggered forward into a quick small package from DiBiase for the three-count. Afterwards, Virgil tossed the nightstick to DiBiase, who waited for Piper to stumble to his feet and clobbered him on the head with it, knocking the Scotsman out to the floor near the semi-conscious Boss Man. The Million Dollar Team left, proud of their work, as the commentators wondered if the Rowdy One would be able to compete tomorrow night at WrestleMania VII. (82%)

A video aired, recapping Jerry Lawler's recent comments regarding Hulk Hogan, as well as a clip from the King's interview on Prime Time Wrestling this past Monday when he challenged the Hulkster to appear with him on a special edition of "The Brother Love Show" at WrestleMania VII. It then cut to Hogan sitting in a red-and-yellow director's chair with his back to the camera, when suddenly the Hulkster jumped out of his seat and turned to face the camera, going through his usual routine, calling Lawler "an insignificant piece of dirt on the boot of Hulkamania" before announcing that he would be at WrestleMania tomorrow night to confront the King. The Immortal One finished by posing and flexing his muscles as he snorted, "WHATCHA GONNA DO, KINGFISH, WHEN HULKAMANIA, WRESTLEMANIA, AND THE 24-INCH PYTHONS RUN WILD ON YOU!" (97%)

In the locker room, Jesse "The Body" Ventura interviewed Paul Ellering and the Powers Of Pain, while Randy Savage could be seen pacing back and forth in the background. Precious Paul prognosticated complete and utter victory for Warlord & Barbarian tomorrow night against the Legion Of Doom at WrestleMania VII, as well as tonight in the big six-man main event. (69%)

Six-Man Tag Team Match: "Macho Man" Randy Savage & Powers Of Pain (Barbarian & Warlord) vs. Ultimate Warrior & Legion Of Doom (Hawk & Animal)

Paul Ellering led his Powers out for this main event, which turned into a chaotic brawl right off the bat with all six competitors slugging it out at numerous opportunities throughout the match. Tenay pointed out that the LOD & Warrior had quite a bit of experience teaming together, although it didn't really come into play here as pretty much every tag led to a six-man donnybrook. As the war went on, the Powers Of Pain were able to subdue Animal & Hawk on the floor after interference from Precious Paul, while on the inside the WWF Champion mounted a comeback against the Macho Man and began thrashing him. The Warrior looked ready to finish Savage off, but when he ran into the ropes, the Powers tripped him up. When Warrior turned to face Warlord & Barbarian, Savage snuck in and rolled up the WWF Champion with a handful of trunks, putting his feet on the middle rope for added leverage as referee Earl Hebner counted the 1-2-3. Afterwards, the Macho Man slipped out to ringside and taunted the Warrior, telling him he only had 24 hours left with the WWF Championship, as the broadcast ended with Albert and Tenay hyping tomorrow night's WrestleMania VII. (80%)

Overall: 78%

Rating: 6.77

Attendance: 8,048

Ticket Sales: $482,880

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Here we go, coming up, WrestleMania VII on Sunday, April 28...

WWF Championship Match: Ultimate Warrior [champion] vs. Randy Savage

WWF Intercontinental Title Match: Mr. Perfect [champion] vs. Ricky Steamboat

WWF Tag Team Title Match: The Hart Foundation [champions] vs. The Nasty Boys

Million Dollar Belt Match: Ted DiBiase [self-proclaimed champion] vs. Roddy Piper

Dog Collar Match: The British Bulldogs vs. Demolition

Texas Bullrope/Steel Chain Match: Rhodes Family vs. Power & Glory

Jake Roberts vs. Rick Rude

Legion Of Doom vs. Powers Of Pain

"The Brother Love Show": Jerry Lawler and Hulk Hogan