TNA: The Russo Years...?

[probablyoliver]

First of; for continuity and TNA booking sake, I'm saying Genesis was on the last day of November, not in the middle, this way I can just jump right in to TEW without having any phantom booking. It's not going to change anything; it just makes it easier for me. =]

-

Every time the name 'Vince Russo' was raised in the internet wrestling community, one of two responses was guaranteed to come up. On one side, many saw him as a destructive force in professional wrestling; someone who could destroy a promotion from the inside at the flick of a switch. He was responsible for such monstrosities as David Arquette; WCW Champion and the booking of Ed Ferrara as 'Oklahoma', a southern 'wrestler' which was an obvious parody of WWF Commentator Jim Ross. Needless to say, Russo's ideas were criticised heavily, and through it he made lots of enemies, both in the wrestling industry and out of it. However, there was also the argument that Russo was nothing short a genius. For every horrid idea, he also brought to the table something new and never seen before; Crash TV. In its most stripped back state, it made for exciting TV, anything could happen and wrestling lost its predictability and allowed for a further suspension of belief; not just with the 'marks' but also the more informed generation of wrestling fans. Under Russo, wrestling looked real again, and although he needed someone to sieve through his ideas and separate the best from the abysmal; he was able to create exciting TV once more.

These two arguments came up strong recently, when Russo was named as the new head-booker of second-by-default promotion; Total Non-Stop Action Wrestling. It was a ballsy move, Russo had been in the booking chair of the company before, and he never stayed long. But desperate times called for desperate measures, and as TNA began to slip back into obscurity, and people started to stop taking notice, one thing was needed; something gutsy and unpredictable. Something that only Vince Russo could bring to the table. And it seemed to work, in just one month TNA was beginning to become exciting again, the world title was no longer fought between the same, repetitive niche of Sting, Jeff Jarrett and Christian Cage, but it became sought after by everyone on the roster. Anything could happen, and it did; Samoa Joe's seemingly indestructible eighteen month unbeaten reign was snapped in less than fifteen minutes by one of the biggest names in the wrestling industry; Kurt Angle. Nothing was impossible, and it wasn't; Abyss, a man who had teetered on main event status for over two years was given that final nudge, and broke Sting's extremely brief run with the NWA World Heavyweight Title. People were once again taking notice, and TNA; the little company that couldn't was once more becoming the little company that just might.

But for how long?

Total Non-Stop Action: The Russo Years...?

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Champion Roll-Call

As of Monday, Week 3; December 2006

...:::NWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP:::...

'The Monster' Abyss

Champion Since: November 2006

Won from/at: Sting @ Genesis 2006

No. of Defences:

1. d. Sting & Raven @ Turning Point

...::::TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP:::...

'The Phenomenal One' AJ Styles

Champion Since: December, Week 4, 2006

Won from/at: Christopher Daniels @ Impact

No. of Defences:

N/A

...:::NWA WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS:::...

'Latin American eXchange' - Homicide y Hernandez

Champions Since: October 2006

Won from/at: AJ Styles & Christopher Daniels @ Bound for Glory 2006

No. of Defences:

1. d. The Naturals @ iMPACT!

2. d. America's Most Wanted @ Genesis

3. d. AMW, The Briscoes & Team 3D @ Turning Point

Edited January 12, 2007 by O!

[Michael]

Ollie, you are a great writer when you stick to brief results, as I hope you do here. You're right, Russo has made TNA very watchable, open and exciting as of late, but please bear in mind the kind of stuff he's done: making Petey Williams an American patriot, for example. The key to the Russo making is doing things that no one else would have really thought of - that are so strange sometimes, they just work. So what I'm trying to say is, try shit in this diary, as I'm sure you will, and we could see some very original material here. But the key is originality and creativity when it comes to Russo (for the better, or the worse sometimes).

[probablyoliver]

Monday, Week 1, December 2006

OFFICIAL PREVIEW FOR THURSDAY’S “iMPACT!” ON SPIKETV

Angle to answer Joe, Styles & Daniels vs. Naturals and much more

This Thursday night on “iMPACT!” on SpikeTV, the wrestling world will feel the aftermath of the “Genesis” Pay-Per-View event!

NEW NWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION “THE MONSTER” ABYSS TO APPEAR!

On Sunday night at “Genesis”, Abyss became the new NWA World Heavyweight Champion, defeating Sting by disqualification to earn the gold! This Thursday night on “iMPACT!”, the new world champion is scheduled to appear along with his devious manager James Mitchell! Will Sting be there this Thursday night? Will he address his actions during the match that got him disqualified?

THE LAX STRIPPED OF THE TAG TEAM TITLE – TO RELINQUISH CHAMPIONSHIPS ON “iMPACT!”

Also at “Genesis” TNA management director Jim Cornette dropped a bombshell on The Latin American Exchange when he announced he was stripping them of the gold! According to Cornette, the LAX are expected to be in attendance this Thursday night to turn over the championships! The question is, will Konnan, Homicide and Hernandez comply with the orders? Tune in to find out!

KURT ANGLE PROMISES TO ANSWER SAMOA JOE REGARDING A REMATCH

Samoa Joe’s epic win streak came to an end on Sunday night on Pay-Per-View as he was defeated by Olympic gold medalist Kurt Angle! What will be the fallout from the bout on “iMPACT!” on Thursday night? Samoa Joe asked Angle for a rematch, but the Olympic gold medalist left the ring without giving “The Samoan Submission Machine” an answer! TNAwrestling.com has learned that Angle will indeed give his nemesis an answer this Thursday night on SpikeTV!

AJ STYLES & CHRISTOPHER DANIELS VS. THE NATURALS

TNAwrestling.com has learned that this Thursday night, AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels will join forces in what will be their final bout as a tag team! On "iMPACT!", Styles and Daniels will battle another former NWA World Tag Team Championship duo in Tne Naturals along with manager Shane Douglas! Will it be a successful end to the tandem of Daniels and Styles, or will we see more tension between the two TNA stars?

THE VOODOO KIN MAFIA – “THE WAR STARTS THIS THURSDAY”

After beating Kazarian, Bentley and Devine at Sunday’s Pay-Per-View, The Voodoo Kin Mafia – BG and Kip James – announced their war against VKM would begin this Thursday night on SpikeTV! What do the Voodoo Kin Mafia have planned? Will they fire the first shot after their recent visit to Stamford, Connecticut? Watch “iMPACT!” this Thursday to find out!

All this and much more this Thursday night on “iMPACT!” on SpikeTV - don't miss the aftermath of "Genesis" as TNA begins the road to the December "Turning Point" Pay-Per-View event!

Edited November 28, 2006 by O!

[probablyoliver]

OOC: First show, I feel it could have been better, but I have always considered first shows to be a trial, just to see how it's coming off when I read it back. I'm sure the quality will increase as time goes by. Also, there's not much colour at the moment, but I plan on jazzing it up in the future, as it all looks a little... dull. TV shows will be like this, whilst PPVs will (most probably) be full results, not just recaps. Anywho, enjoy. =]

TNA presents; iMPACT! on SpikeTV;

Thursday, Week 1, December 2006

As iMPACT! begins we get the brand new NWA World Heavyweight Champion; "The Monster" Abyss in the ring with his manager and controller; "Father" James Mitchell". Mitchell comments on the controversial way in which Abyss won the title just five days ago at Genesis, saying that "the darkness took over Sting, smothering him in his own fears of losing the NWA World Title.", and that this was the sole reason why Sting was no longer champion. Mitchell continued, saying that Sting was once a great man and wrestler, but that as he was nearing his own demise, he had to clutch at straws to stay on top, and that his loss to Abyss, whom he dubbed "a new breed of psychopath" was "inevitable". Mitchell called Sting out, saying he wanted the "once bold icon, now bone idle one" to come to the ring and lay down for the new champion; however, that wasn't the case, and instead Mitchell got Raven, and his 'New Movement'; Johnny Devine, Kazarian and Matt Bentley. In the usual long-winded Raven-esque way, the former NWA World Heavyweight Champion said he was an "old breed of psychopath", but a psychopath nonetheless. Raven said over the years his hatred of Mitchell had turned into respect, but that was expected with them being identical in everything but looks. Raven said that since losing the NWA Title he began to crave it, even going as far to calling it his "prescious". Raven challenged Abyss to fight his New Breed tonight, 3-on-1, with the stipulation being that if Abyss lost; Raven would get a title shot. Mitchell accepted, and said that even though Abyss was far from 100%, he'd have no trouble dismantling Raven's 'droogs'.

Match One

'The War Machine' Rhino v 'Primetime' Elix Skipper

The crowd knew exactly what this match was for, to show off Rhino's immense power; and that's exactly what they got, they were so excited for Rhino that he even got a great pop coming out from the Impact Zone. The match itself was extremely short, not even reaching the minute mark, and Skipper's offence included nothing more than a weak chop and a desperation sunset flip pin attempt. The match was all Rhino, managing to hit two nasty clotheslines, a beautiful snap spinebuster and of course; the Gore, which picked up the easy victory. By no means a great match, just a nice little warm-up for the fans.

Result: Rhino d. Elix Skipper w/ a Gore. [0:44] [C+]

Although not a great speaker, Rhino had no problem grapping for the mike post-match. Rhino laid down the law and said he was pissed off about being left off from Genesis, and wants to get back into the NWA Title Picture, saying last time he was champion he didn't even hold the belt for a week, and that just won't do. Rhino made the open challenge for Turning Point, saying whoever would answer would "feel the gore. Gore. Gore!" This lead to TNA's resident Gold Medalist, Kurt Angle to come down to the six-sided ring. Angle said that now he was here, TNA management wanted nothing to do with circus acts like Rhino. Kurt accepted the Open Challenge, saying he'd destroy Rhino just like he destroyed another of TNA's landmark stars last week at Genesis. This of course prompted the formelly undefeated Samoa Joe out from the back and into the ring. Joe and Kurt went nose to nose, before Joe pushed Angle away and demanded a rematch at Turning Point, to prove he was the better man, and that Angle just got lucky. Rhino stepped in and went nose to nose with Joe, telling him to get in line, because he wasn't the only one wanting to destroy Angle anymore. Just as it looked like all hell was going to break out, former NWA World Heavyweight Champion Christian Cage made his way down to the ring. Cage first centred on Rhino, saying his bark was worse than his bite, and he should "get the hell out of my yard, or garden, I'm not even sure what's copyrighted now!". Cage then turned to Angle, saying he was going to welcome him to TNA in the "proper manner", which turned out to be dropping to his knees and shouting "We are not worthy". This angered Joe, who dragged him up and pushed him away. This forced Cage's attention to Joe, whom he mocked by flaunting his own undefeated streak in his face, saying there was only one man to beat left in TNA; himself. Cage challenged Joe to a match at Turning Point, saying he'd be the final nail in the coffin of Joe's winning streak, and that after Cage beat him, Joe would never want to show his face in TNA, let alone pick up a win in it. Cage turned around; preparing to say something to Angle, but Joe jumped in and locked in a choke, which was immediately broken up by Angle, who went for an Olympic Slam on Joe, but was instead Gore'd by Rhino. Cage and Angle quickly slid out of the ring and half way up the Impact Zone as Joe and Rhino stood in the ring looking on at them, before turning to each other and starring each other down.

After a short commercial break, we opened on Jim Cornette standing with Petey Williams in the ring. Cornette calls out LAX and says he wants them to bring the Tag Titles with them... No answer. Cornette says he's changed his mind and won't be stripping them of the titles, and instead just wants to speak to them... Still no answer. Cornette says if they don't comply and come down to the ring they will be fired on the spot, no question about it... Again; no answer. Cornette, now looking majorly pissed off starts to rant, but is stopped mid-sentence by the three members of LAX; Homicide, Hernandez and manager Konnan. Konnan begins to yell at Cornette, saying that Cornette was speaking against free speech, and that he was only silencing LAX because he feared them. Cornette seemed to back down and even agreed to fearing LAX. Cornette said he was a man of respect and tradition, and having "thugs" like LAX in TNA did strike fear into the roster, and Cornette didn't like that, and wanted them out of the company as soon as possible. Cornette then brought up his 'stripping' LAX of the NWA Tag Team Titles on Sunday night; Cornette said he'd made a mistake, and he didn't want "such prestigious belts" given a bad name by becoming vacant, so instead he was placing LAX in a Gauntlet at Turning Point against three great teams from three very different walks of life. When LAX lost, they'd be fired from TNA without question, and if they won? Cornette said that didn't matter, as with the three teams he had in mind, there was no chance of them winning. Cornette then denounced LAX, telling them to "leave my damn ring!", this angered Homicide, who started yelling at Spanish, before stepping up to hit Cornette, but at lighting quick pace, Petey dived in and took down Homicide, and the second match kicked off.

Match Two

'The Notorious 187' Homicide w/ LAX v 'The Canadian Destroyer' Petey Williams

The match started with all three members of LAX attacking Petey, before they were ordered out of the ring and away from ringside by referee Rudy Charles, they refused until Homicide told them he "had it covered", and LAX disappeared up the Impact Zone. The match seemed a little slower than what both guys are used to working, and it made for a slightly awkward bout, which only picked up in the last minute of action. The first three minutes were built around Homicide going for a few signature spots, including his nasty lariat and even an early Gringo Killah, but Petey kept managing to squirm out someway or other. The last two minutes saw Homicide snap, and it allowed Petey to get the upper hand, even managing to score the newly dubbed AmeriCanadian Destroyer, but not being able to pick up the pin after interference from Hernandez. As Petey went to pin, Homicide got a small package in for a two count, and the two men got back to their feet. Cide went for a lariat, but Petey ducked under and rolled Cide up for a sneaky three-count victory.

Result: Petey Williams d. Homicide w/ a Rollup. [6:15] [C+]

Following the bout, the Voodoo Kin Mafia; BG James and Kip James made their way ringside. They announced that the war was beginning now, but that they wanted to make a few things clear to the people who doubted them, and to their friends at Titan Towers. BG stated that he was old school wrestling till he died, a man who fought with his fists, and who didn't need midgets, scantily clad women or grown men sticking their heads up his ass to get over. Kip grabbed the mike and said he had been forced to do some pretty gruesome stuff under Vincent Kennedy, and said he did it because "VKM was a friend and a mentor", but he was cut out because Vince wanted someone else to ridicule, and that he didn't like to see those that were being laughed at playing along and enjoying themselves. Kip said McMahon's only goal in life was to "turn wrestlers into freaks", but Kip said TNA wasn't like that, and that's why TNA would be number one in five years time. BG laughed at said at the rate of WWE stars dropping out and coming into TNA, it wouldn't take five years; apparently it wouldn't even take six months. But BG said that he wouldn't take cheap shots at Vince, DX or WWE; instead BG said that he and Kip "will fight fairly and fight now!" Kip returned to the mike and said he was giving Vince until the end of the year to respond; otherwise VKM would take the fight to RAW! The crowd erupted at this idea, and chanted anti-WWE slogans around the Impact Zone as Impact went to a commerical break.

Backstage, and we were with LAX once more. Homicide looked pissed off, and continued to scream in Spanish and Hernandez tried and failed to calm him down. Along with Konnan, the three men made their way backstage and to a door with the name "JIM CORNETTE" written in large font. Homicide kicked down the door, expecting to see the Director of Authority, but was instead met by America's Most Wanted; 'Cowboy' James Storm and 'Wildcat' Chris Harris, carrying chairs. AMW brawled with LAX out of the door and throughout the Impact Zone, until they were in the crowd, brawling with chairs, dustbins and even a cable, which James Storm used to wrap around the neck of Hernandez. The two teams brawled for a few minutes before security, officials and other wrestlers had to run down to split them up and lead them away from each other. Homicide continued to yell in Spanish at AMW, before pretending to fire rounds from a gun with a loud 'Brrrrrap' noise.

Match Three

'The Phenomenal' AJ Styles & 'Fallen Angel' Christopher Daniels v The Naturals w/ Shane Douglas

Billed as the 'last match ever' for AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels, this was sure to be one to watch. The Naturals seemed to be void of all kinds of fan reaction as they made their way to the ring, which manager Shane Douglas was able to turn around by berating them for not working hard enough. AJ and Daniels of course got huge reactions, but something wasn't right; they weren't in their usual matching gear like they had been before, they were separate wrestlers. The match was generally very good, with the only flaw being a couple missed spots with all four men, leading to some timing issues and awkward spots. The match was also shorter than expected, meaning it was just a showcase of what all four men could do, rather than a down-and-out wrestling match that all four men can partake in. Despite this, the crowd ate up every moment of it, especially a beautiful dual no hands plancha from both Daniels and Styles on both Naturals and Shane Douglas. The Naturals also managed to impress, with some great double team work on both opponents. The ending came when The Naturals went for a Natural Disaster on Daniels, but Daniels slipped out and managed to hit a Last Rites on Stevens, whilst AJ hit the Styles Clash on Douglas for the double pin.

Result: Styles & Daniels d. The Naturals w/ a Dual Pin. [6:58] [b ]

Post match, as the Naturals were lead up the ramp by a very unhappy Shane Douglas, AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels stood in the ring to celebrate their last every match as a team. Styles picked up the X Division Title, and handed it to Daniels, and the two embraced, before breaking off and holding each others arms up high in the air. But then, out of nowhere, stepped forward and flipped back, hitting a Pelé Kick on Daniels, before stomping on him and berating him. AJ said he was too good for Daniels, and always has been. Styles said he was tired of being disregarded in TNA in favour of veterans, and in a complete Russo-moment, even broke the fourth wall, saying he hated management’s decision to put him in a throwaway team with Daniels. Styles stormed away from the ring, and even flipped the bird to the few fans in the arena to boo him.

Match Four

'The Monster' Abyss v The New Movement

Although the odds were firmly stacked against the new NWA World Heavyweight Champion, there wasn't a single look of fear on Abyss' face as he made his way down to the ring with James Mitchell. The reaction for Abyss was loud and mixed, with lots of people cheering and chanting for him. Next out, sans Raven were the New Movement, all looking a lot different to how they looked just a couple weeks ago. The three men climbed into the ring, and were all weary of going for Abyss alone, instead going with the numbers game and attacking him three on one. The match itself was very mismatched, with the New Movement having to throw nothing but high flying moves on Abyss to take him down, but it was Abyss who managed to keep the advantage throughout the match. There was only three moments when Abyss was actually knocked onto the floor, once by a great looking triple missile dropkick from The New Movement, which managed to get Abyss pinned for a two-count. But after a couple of minutes of this formula, the crowd were getting bored, and called for Abyss to really get going. Abyss got a Torture Rack on Devine, slamming him down with great ease, before focusing on Kazarian, who was met with a Big Boot, before being picked up for a choke toss out of the ring. Then there was no chance for Bentley, who was simply met with a Black Hole Slam and quick pin for the win.

Result: Abyss d. The New Movement w/ a Black Hole Slam [5:27] [C+]

Following the match, the leader of the New Movement; Raven finally made his presence known by walking down to the ring in his white suit, black face mask combo. Raven scowled his three droogs, even going as far to headbutt Bentley for taking the pin, knocking him to the floor. Raven then climbed into the ring and congratulated Abyss on taking out all three of his men. But Raven said that wasn't it, and instead wanted to take on Abyss himself; right here, right now. No title involved, Raven just wanted to show the New Movement how to dismantle a monster like Abyss. Mitchell tries to tell Abyss to not take the challenge, and instead leave because a man like Raven gets off on pain, but Abyss doesn't listen and goes straight in for the match.

Main Event

'The Monster' Abyss v Raven w/ The New Movement

Although it didn't break the ten minute mark, the match was easily one of the best free TV matches TNA had had in a long time, with both Abyss and Raven pulling out all the stops to show why you don't need weapons to pull out a hardcore spectacle. The two brawled in the ring, before inevitably leaving the ring and brawling outside the ring, with Abyss smashing Raven's head against a steel ring-post, opening up a cut on his forehead. As Raven stood groggy, Abyss stepped back and charged towards him, going for a splash against the metal, but Raven dropped down just in time sending Abyss into cold steel. Raven then followed up with a nasty low-blow, before rolling Abyss into the ring. Raven stomped on Abyss until the Monster was back to his feet, and the two continued to brawl; Raven in particular opened up a cut on Abyss head with some headbutts and jabs. The two men continued their tirade until Raven was able to gain enough momentum to hit the Evenflow DDT. Raven climbed out of the ring and pulled a table from underneath the ring, before setting it up against the side of the ring and the railing. Abyss got to his feet, and swept Raven off the ring apron with a clothesline, before grabbing for his bag of tacks, which he emptied on the table suspended across the ring and railing. Abyss then pulled Raven up by his throat and went for a double handed chokeslam through the tacked up table, but was stopped by the three members of the New Movement, attacking him from behind. Abyss dropped Raven down the floor before cleaning house of the New Movement, but then; the lights went down...

Result: Abyss v Raven went to a No Contest [9:51] [A]

...the crowd went berserk as the lights returned, and in the ring, pointing his baseball bat at Abyss was the former NWA World Heavyweight Champion; Sting!!! Sting looked pissed off as Abyss slid into the ring and went to attack the Stinger, but was stopped in his tracks by Sting swinging his baseball bat. It was in fact Raven who got the upper hand, as he swung Sting round, kicked him in the gut and hit a Evenflow DDT in the centre of the ring, as Abyss and James Mitchell made their way out from the Impact Zone. Impact went off the air with Raven pointing out towards Abyss as Sting laid stunned on the floor.

Short Results:

• Taped for Xplosion: Senshi d. Jerelle Clark [2.34] [C]

• Rhino d. Elix Skipper [0:44] [C+]
• Petey Williams d. Homicide [6:15] [C+]
• AJ Styles & Christopher Daniels d. The Naturals [6:58] [b ]
• Abyss d. Johnny Devine, Kazarian & Matt Bentley [5:27] [C+]
• Raven v. Abyss ended in a No Contest [9.51] [A]

[probablyoliver]

The Briscoe Brothers Set To Debut; This Week on "iMPACT!" on SpikeTV!

Jay and Mark Briscoe, the Briscoe Brothers are one of the most successful independent tag teams in the last ten years, and at just 21 and 20 years of age respectively, they've done it all in a very short time. They've captured tag titles in Ring of Honor, Combat Zone Wrestling, Full Impact Pro and have competed up and down the country, from California to Philadelphia, and now they're coming to TNA Wrestling.

How does it feel being a part of TNA?

JAY: "We grew up watching wrestling, and it's always been a huge dream to compete on national television; so to compete for a company like TNA is huge for the both of us, and we can't wait to compete against the best in the world."

MARK: "I remember watching Sting, Jeff Jarrett and Raven in WCW when I was just a teen, and I remember falling in love with the sport, so to be here, wrestling in the same ring and chilling out in the same locker room with such legends is hard to believe. To me, we're still these two kids from up North jumping on the beds and play wrestling. It's crazy to think we're actually getting national exposure."

JAY: "And it's not only the legends we'll be with, but to be with some of the biggest names of today and tomorrow; the Kurt Angle's and Christian Cage's of this world. To me, they're bigger names than Tom Cruise or Johnny Depp. I'm gonna have a hard time playing it cool and not rushing to ask for their autographs!"

Who are your favourite tag teams?

JAY: "Right now? Right now it's all about America's Most Wanted; pure and simple they are the team to beat here in TNA. I've studied them since TNA started back in '02, because they're that damn good."

MARK: "LAX. Without a doubt."

JAY: "Really?"

MARK: "Hell yeah, I'm gonna have a damn good time beating them in the ring!"

How are you preparing for your TNA debut?

JAY: "There's so much diversity in the TNA Tag Team ranks right now, so it's pretty tough to prepare for it. I mean, we've not been told our opponents yet, so for all we know we could be up against some of the most experienced teams around, BG and Kip James or Team 3D will be hard to prepare for especially. How do you prepare for a team that's been together ten years plus?"

MARK: "Yeah, and that's not even going into the guys in the X-Division. With the James' or 3D's of this world you just have to hope you're faster than them; they're slowing down, and although they've got the experience edge, we've got youth on our side. It's guys like Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt and The Naturals I'm worried about, how do you out-manoeuvre someone 20lbs lighter than you?"

JAY: "When it comes down to it, you've just gotta be prepared for all comers, and we are. We could be stuck in front of no-nonsense brawlers like LAX, and we'd put up a great fight. We could be thrown against the experience edge of Team 3D, and we wouldn't back down. Hell, you could throw us up against Samoa Joe and Kurt Angle, and we'd still come ready."

Both of you have wrestled against many of TNA's current stars across the country? Who's got what it takes to be a main eventer in five years time?"

MARK: "Alex Shelley, no doubt about it. He's one of the best wrestlers pound for pound, and he speaks a good game too. He looks pretty small stood next to Kevin Nash, but inside; the guy's larger than life."

JAY: "I'm on the other side of Paparazzi; I'm gonna say Austin Starr. There is no other like him in the ring, he's faster than anyone I've ever seen, his mat game is perfection and he's got one of the hardest punches I've ever felt. I don't even give him five years, I give him one!"

Catch Jay and Mark in action this Thursday, 9:00pm Central on iMPACT!, only on SpikeTV!

-

Monday, Week 2, December 2006

OFFICIAL PREVIEW FOR THURSDAY’S “iMPACT!” ON SPIKETV

#1 Contender named, huge tag team main event and much more

This Thursday night on “iMPACT!” on SpikeTV, the road to Turning Point continues.

ABYSS OPPONENT FOR TURNING POINT NAMED

Just four days after winning the title, Abyss was attacked by Raven and the New Movement in hopes of Raven regaining the NWA World Heavyweight Title, and the champion barely escaped in one piece! But Sting wanted a piece of the man who took his title too. This week, Jim Cornette addresses the situation and names the challenger for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship at Turning Point.

KURT ANGLE & CHRISTIAN CAGE VS. SAMOA JOE & RHINO

Last week, two challenges were made for Turning Point; Rhino made an open invitational and Kurt Angle answered, much to the anger of Samoa Joe who wanted a Genesis rematch. But instead, Joe was met with Christian Cage, who ridiculed him for losing his unbeaten streak. This week, Angle & Cage team up to take on their Turning Point opponents in an explosive main event!

JIM CORNETTE REVEALS THE SECOND TEAM AGAINST LAX

Although they were ordered to vacate their titles at 'Genesis', LAX were met with a different challenge by Jim Cornette; he would bring three different teams to Turning Point, and the titles would be taken from LAX fairly. After America's Most Wanted were revealed as the first team, Cornette has promised the second team will be even more notorious, but who will they be?

THE BRISCOES TO DEBUT

Independent tag team sensations; the Briscoe Brothers are one of the best teams in the United States today; and this week they make their impact in TNA on SpikeTV. Their opponents have not been named, but whoever they are, the Briscoes are going to be out to make a good first impression in TNA.

"WE'LL FIGHT FAIRLY; AND WE'LL FIGHT NOW!"

After declaring war on DX and Vincent Kennedy McMahon two weeks ago, the Voodoo Kin Mafia announced on last week's iMPACT! on SpikeTV that they would be fighting fairly, but fighting now. They gave DX until the end of the year to respond, or they'd be bringing the fight to them. What will the VKM have in store this week, and will they keep to their word?

All this and much more this Thursday night on “iMPACT!” on SpikeTV - don't miss the action on the road to Turning Point!

-

TNA News & Notes

www.GrappleFanatics.net

As mentioned on TNAwrestling.com, popular independent tag team, The Briscoe Brothers are set to debut this week on Impact, and management are said to be very high on the tag team. It has been reported that Christopher Daniels has praised the team for a few months, but the decision was made to not bring them in with the tag team division already being very diverse. However, it was Jeff Jarrett who made the pledge to Vince Russo to sign them when he saw their work at a recent Full Impact Pro event. Although their opponents have not been named as of yet, the interview on TNAwrestling.com hints at the possibility of Alex Shelley and Austin Starr, as well hinting at a possible feud with current tag team champions; LAX.

Senshi, aka Low-Ki is set to return to TNA within the next few weeks, after a short absence from Impact when he lost the X-Division Title a few weeks ago. He has been appearing on Xplosion recently, mostly in short matches against the lower-tier wrestlers of TNA, and it's been reported that management are still extremely optimistic that he could become a much bigger entity within the company. Although nothing has been confirmed, there is talk of having him join LAX, to bring a singles star into the group, which currently consists of Homicide, Hernandez and Konnan. There has also been talk of having him work a program with former Triple X team-mates; Christopher Daniels and Elix Skipper. However, to do this Skipper would have to regain some momentum, as he has practically became a whipping boy since the group disbanded.

The current plan for December PPV Turning Point is to have a triple threat main event for the NWA World Title, with Abyss taking on two former champions in Raven and Sting. The sudden main event push of Raven was said to be the idea of Vince Russo, who believes that Raven does have one more main event run left in him before he retires from the sport altogether. However, there has been some animosity over this decision backstage, as wrestlers believe that Raven should be helping to build younger talent than be in the main picture himself. Other matches set for the card are; AJ Styles v Christopher Daniels for the X-Division Title, Rhino v Kurt Angle and Samoa Joe v Christian Cage.

Jeff Jarrett, who has taken time off from TNA since losing the NWA World Title to Sting at Bound for Glory may not be returning to the ring for sometime. Jarrett has been working with Vince Russo booking Impact the last few weeks, and the two, who have been friends for years, are said to be making a great team. Jarrett took a backseat after poor crowd reactions to his main event status, and he recently stated in a radio interview that he enjoys working on the show just as much as he enjoys working in the shows. However, there have been ideas thrown about for possible programs for Jeff Jarrett, including a face turn and feud against AJ Styles. Whether or not the fans will accept a Jarrett face turn is another story altogether.

[probablyoliver]

TNA presents; iMPACT! on SpikeTV;

Thursday, Week 2, December 2006

Impact kicked off with Director of Authority; Jim Cornette standing in the centre of the ring. Cornette's usual ice cold expression was replaced with a smile, and he said he enjoyed watching LAX come closer and closer to losing the NWA Tag Team Titles and returning to obscurity. Cornette said they'd be out of a job before the end of the year; saying he was 'breathing a huge sigh of relief in regards to LAX's imminent departure from TNA!" Cornette requested LAX come down to the ring, so he can reveal to them their second batch of opponents for Turning Point; and sure enough, within time a pissed off looking Konnan lead the Tag Team Champions; Homicide and Hernandez down to the ring. Konnan said he hated Cornette's obvious racism, and was challenging to a strap match at Turning Point. Cornette said he didn't believe in fighting thugs. just making a mockery of them, and that was exactly why he chose to 'hire' the next team to take out LAX. Cornette brought out Team 3D; Brother Ray and Devon to a thunderous reaction from the crowd. The moment the tag team legends slid into the ring, LAX brought the fight to them, brawling with them, but Team 3D were able to get a quick advantage, throwing Homicide out of the ring and hitting a huge 3D on Hernandez. Team 3D then focused on Konnan, who tried his hardest to fight back, but was out-numbered and taken down with a Scoop Slam from Ray and a Whasssssup! Headbutt from Devon. The two members of Team 3D then raised Konnan to his knees as Cornette grabbed his infamous Tennis Racket and smashed it over the head of Konnan. Cornette finished off by announcing he would be drafting the third team next week by holding a tag team turmoil match!

The action cut backstage, with Christian Cage warming up for the Main Event. In walked Kurt Angle, and the two long time friends embraced and made their greetings. Christian made a belated welcome to TNA for Kurt, warning him about how vicious it could be without the restraints of ‘Up North!’. Kurt said he was ready for anything, but Christian didn’t look so sure. Cage started to ask about Kurt’s neck, saying that he ‘cared too much to see a friend get hurt’, but Angle quickly changed the subject to Christian’s workout regime, asking how Christian was preparing. Cage said he still had a chicken suit out back; and the room went silent. Christian broke the awkward silence, saying he had to leave to make a few calls, before leaving Angle looking confused in the dressing room.

Match One

'The Phenomenal' AJ Styles v Chris Sabin

Although he 'turned' last week, AJ still received a lot of crowd support as he came out of the iMPACT! zone and down the ramp. Chris Sabin also got a favourable reaction, as the two men squared up in the ring for an X-Division Showcase. The match was, as expected, extremely fast paced, with both men getting some great offence in. AJ heeled it up in the first couple of minutes, even going as far as to refuse to hit some of his signature top-rope spots that would have really had the crowd going. At one point, Sabin was knocked to the outside, and AJ set up for a No Hands Plancha, but just milliseconds away from diving out, AJ just rebounded off the ropes and taunted the fans; which garnered him his first true heel reaction in some time. In response, Sabin played super-face, and knocked AJ down mid-taunt with a Springboard Dropkick. Sabin scored some near falls, and it looked like he was going to win when he pulled AJ up for the Futueshock, but Styles managed to squirm to the floor, spin Sabin round, rake his eyes and hit a Styles Clash centre of the ring for the pinfall. A short match, that could have gone longer had there not been TV time restraints, but it was still a nice match to set the action off nonetheless.

Result: AJ Styles d. Chris Sabin w/ s Styles Clash[6:04] [b ]

As AJ Styles celebrated his cheap victory, former tag team partner, current advisory and X-Division Champion; 'Fallen Angel' Christopher Daniels sprinted down to the ring to confront Styles to elicit crowd response. But Styles was having none of it, and the moment he spotted Daniels he was out of the ring and up the other side of the Impact Zone. Daniels wasted no time in chasing up the ramp after Styles, running from the arena just as quick as he had run into it.

A short video package aired next, with Kevin Nash standing by with Paparazzi Productions; Austin Starr and Alex Shelley. Nash announced that they were going to be the one's to face the Briscoe Brothers tonight in their debut. Nash asked Starr and Shelley what he thought of the two, saying he was meant to be seeing them wrestle a few weeks back, but his "leg was playing up pretty bad". Shelley said they were good, but that Paparazzi were better. Starr chipped in, saying the exact same thing to the confusion of Nash. Nash asked how much they weigh; to which Starr responded with "about... something like... nineteen, perhaps?", once again to a lot of confusion from Nash and Shelley. Shelley asked if Starr had been hit on the head recently, to which Starr replied with "yeah, that Jay guy pinned me like 10 minutes ago." Shelley and Nash still look dumbfounded, with Shelley asking if Starr could see into the future; Starr shook his head, and began his sentence "nah, we're just tapping this afte...", but Nash cut him off, diving for the camera and shouting "kayfabe; keep the kayfa...!". End transmission!

Match Two

Paparazzi Production w/ Kevin Nash v The Briscoe Brothers

The Paparazzi came out to a mixed reaction from the crowd; there was no real solid reaction for them; some booed and some cheers. The Briscoes, on the other hand, seemed to get a fairly positive reaction, if any reaction at all. There were a few ROH fans chanting for them in the audience, but other than that, there was only a few standard cheers for them. Despite this, they got the crowd rallied behind them throughout the match, and if it wasn't for a blown spot mid-match that saw Mark Briscoe almost concussed by a missed Tope, the crowd would have been on their feet. The match itself was pretty good, although it could have been better if longer. The Briscoes took control early in the match, and seemed to run rings around Starr until Shelley was tagged in and managed to even the score with some beautiful chain wrestling with Jay Briscoe. The match was ended abruptly after the botched spot, with Jay quickly hitting a Jay Driller on Austin Starr to pick up the successful debut victory.

Result: The Briscoes d. Paparazzi Production w/ an assisted Jay Driller [6:55] [C+]

After a short commercial break we join NWA World Heavyweight Champion 'The Monster' Abyss in the ring with his manager 'Father' James Mitchell. Mitchell said that what happened last week proved how strong Abyss was; defeating three men in five minutes and still being able to fight Raven one-on-one. Abyss said Raven was scared of Abyss, and that was the only reason the New Movement were with him. Mitchell said he wanted to see Raven bleed, and so wanted Abyss to fight him at Turning Point; and not Sting. This prompted Raven to come out from the Impact Zone and down to face Mitchell and Abyss. Raven said he'd sacrificed everything to win the NWA World Title last year at Slammiversary, and said he'd have no trouble sacrificing everything again to get the title once more. Raven accepted Mitchell's challenge, but was cut off when the lights went down momentarily, only to return with an eerie red glow and a 'howl' coming through the PA. After some initial confusion Sting appeared on the Impact Zone ramp. Mitchell applauded, saying he knew Sting would embrace the darkness sooner or later and accept that his fate laid with the devil, and not with the Gods. Sting climbed into the ring and squared up to Abyss and then to Raven. Sting asked for his rematch to be taken at Turning Point in a No-DQ match, because he craved blood, and wanted to be in no fear of losing like he did at Genesis. Mitchell accepted straight away, saying that Raven was nothing but a pawn to lure Sting out. Mitchell said that Raven was nothing more than a shell of the psychopath that made him what he was today. Mitchell stepped up to Raven and slapped him hard across the face, knocking him down to one knee. Mitchell said that looking at him now made him feel ashamed for once believing he was once a worthy man. This prompted Director of Authority Jim Cornette out into the Impact Zone. Cornette said that Raven had proved he was worthy last week, and that Mitchell's manipulating games had to stop; and they would at Turning Point as we'd see a Triple Threat, No-Disqualification match; Abyss v Raven v Sting. Mitchell looked pissed at this, but had no chance to respond when The New Movement; Kazarian, Bentley and Devine sneak attacked from the other side, beating Abyss down with Kendo Sticks before each spewing mist over Sting. As Abyss and Sting laid beaten on the floor, the New Movement grabbed Mitchell, and pulled him towards Raven. Raven said he was disappointed that Mitchell didn't see that coming, before hitting him with a vicious headbutt that made both men recoil and even bleed. Raven said he'd take the NWA Title at Turning Point, and that 'Phase 2' of his plan would be complete...

We cut backstage, where we just see AJ Styles shoot past, knocking over some boxes in the backstage area in quick haste. A few seconds later, X-Division Champion Christopher Daniels runs into the scene, slightly out of breathe and looking around. Daniels looks pissed off, and asks a couple of near-by backstage hands where AJ went. They both seem to be slightly clueless, obviously seeing AJ, but not seeing where he went. Without a full answer, Daniels just looked more angered, kicking his foot into a few of the knocked off boxes with a loud "Dammit!", as the scene cuts back to the Impact Zone.

Match Three

Robert Roode w/ Miss Brooks v Lance Hoyt

Roode seemed to be playing a Bond Villian-esque gimmick as he came down to the ring. He wasn't dressed for wrestling, but in a tuxedo. His beard had been trimmed down and his hair was tied back, all in all he looked suave, especially with the stunning Brooks on his arm. It seemed as though Hoyt was only getting cheered by the few 'Hoytamaniacs' in the crowd; which had cut down considerably since his push had ended in 2005. The match itself was short, with Roode controlling the whole match, with Hoyt getting minimal offence with a couple of chops and jabs. Roode looked pretty good, and seemed to be in control, but Hoyt seemed lazy, which dragged the match down. After a few short clotheslines and a Pumphandle Slam, Roode put the match to an end with a nice looking Spiral Powerbomb.

Result: Robert Roode d. Lance Hoyt w/ a Spiral Bomb [3:34] [C+]

Post match, and Robert Roode was celebrating, he called for Miss Brooks to get something from his blazer pocket, and she produced a huge cigar. She dropped to one knee and placed it in the mouth of Roode, before flicking out a lighter from seemingly nowhere. She lit the cigar and Roode took one puff before speaking out to the audience. He said that he had his first taste of glory with the 'Fight for your Right' tournament, and said that although he didn't win, he felt he knew what it was like to be a future world champion; and that's exactly what he was. Roode said he may not be the #1 contender yet, but he will be coming for whoever holds the title, and will go through anyone to win it. Roode announced an open challenge at Turning Point, saying he'd make his full Pay-Per-View debut in spectacular fashion. Roode took another puff from the cigar before the show went to commercial.

Main Event

'The War Machine' Rhino & 'The Samoan Submission Machine' Samoa Joe v 'Captain Charisma' Christian Cage & Kurt Angle

The crowd were hot for the main event, and everyone in it. First out was Rhino; who got a surprisingly huge reaction. Joe got an equally nice pop for his entrance. The two seemed tense teaming with each other, and didn't really show much support for each other pre-match. Christian Cage got a pretty good heel reaction, but there was still some obvious support for the former NWA World Champion. Kurt, on the other hand, got a huge face welcome, which was a shame considering he had been heeling it up since Genesis. The match was, in all aspects of the word; amazing, and the crowd went insane every time Kurt and Joe came into any sort of contact. Christian and Joe got some nice chain wrestling going, setting up their match at Turning Point, and Joe managed to whip out some of his beautifully violent kicks and chops. Angle and Rhino also got some nice wrestling going, but Angle was just too agile for Rhino, as he kept getting the upperhand on the mat. The match spilled to the outside, with Christian slamming Rhino's head against the steel steps, before being taken down by Joe with a thru-the-ropes dive. A nice little spot followed, with Joe being thrown back into the ring, and Angle locking in the Anklelock, only to be taken out by a huge Gore! from Rhino. Christian and Rhino continued to brawl, and a chair even managed to make it's way into the ring, which Cage was soon Snap Suplexed onto! The action switched to Joe and Angle, with Joe going for a Muscle Buster, but Angle's agility shone thru again, and he slipped out and hit a beautiful German Suplex on Joe for a very near two count. Rhino and Kurt began to brawl out of the ring as Cage and Joe got to their feet and began brawling inside the ring. Cage went for an Unprettier, but Joe reversed it and locked in the Coquina Clutch on Christian, which saw him almost pass out, if it hadn't been for a very close save from Angle. Joe and Angle began to brawl, but Rhino dived into the ring and called for a Gore! on Angle, but the Olympic Gold Medallist managed to move just in time, and Rhino hit Joe instead. Kurt quickly took advantage, and hit an Olympic Slam on Rhino before locking in the Anklelock once more. Rhino could do nothing but tap, and the match was over...

Result: Christian Cage & Kurt Angle d. Samoa Joe & Rhino w/ a Unprettier on Rhino [11:40] [A*]

...but the action wasn't, as the four men continued to brawl; this time with weapons getting involved. Christian Cage set up a table outside of the ring, but was taken out by Samoa Joe with a few viscious kicks. This set up for Rhino and Kurt Angle brawling onto the table. Rhino managed to hit a few nasty jabs, making Angle groggy; allowing him to pull him up for a vicious RhinoDriver thru the wood. The crowd went berserk as Angle's already fragile neck met wood in one of the most violent displays in TNA history. The crowd looked on in shock, as did Mike Tenay and Don West. Even Cage and Joe looked gob smacked. Impact went off air with a close up Angle, who looked almost dead!

Short Results

• Taped for Xplosion: The Naturals d. Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal [4:41] [C]
• Taped for Xplosion: Senshi d. Cassidy Riley [2:34] [C]
• AJ Styles d. Chris Sabin [6:04] [b ]
• The Briscoes d. Paparazzi Productions [6:55] [C+]
• Robert Roode d. Lance Hoyt [3:34][C+]
• Christian Cage & Kurt Angle d. Samoa Joe & Rhino [11:40][A*]

Edited November 29, 2006 by O!

[probablyoliver]

Monday, Week 3, December 2006

OFFICIAL PREVIEW FOR THURSDAY’S “iMPACT!” ON SPIKETV

Tag Team Turmoil, Handicap Main Event and much more!

This Thursday night on “iMPACT!” on SpikeTV, the road to Turning Point continues.

LETHAL LOTTERY MAIN EVENT

Last week, Abyss and Sting were brutally attacked by Raven's New Movement Group. Now, this week in Handicap Action; the three members of the New Movement; Kazarian, Bentley and Devine take on the hostile team of NWA World Champion Abyss and former champion Sting. Will the two Turning Point opponents co-exist peacefully and defeat the New Movement, or will alliance beat experience?

TAG TEAM TURMOIL DECIDES LAX OPPONENTS

Jim Cornette announced last week on iMPACT! on SpikeTV that the third and final team to face LAX at Turning Point would be decided with a Tag Team Turmoil match. Four teams have entered, but only one team will go on to take on LAX alongside America's Most Wanted and Team 3D. Who will be in it, and more importantly; who's going to win the NWA World Tag Team Title shot?

KURT ANGLE; LIVE VIDEO FEED

After a brutal attack from Rhino, which saw the Olympic Hero get put through a table with a vicious Piledriver from the War Machine. This week Angle will appear by live video feed from his home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to reveal his current health status. The one question everyone's asking is; will Angle be ready for Turning Point? Only Angle can answer on iMPACT! on SpikeTV!

AJ STYLES AND CHRISTOPHER DANIELS WARM-UP MATCHES

Both AJ and Daniels have been synonymous with the X-Division since TNA opened in 2002, and the two have fought each other over the TNA X Division Title belt many times before; this week, both men prepare for their match at Turning Point with warm-up matches. Will both enter Turning Point strong, or will we see who has the advantage?

All this and much more this Thursday night on “iMPACT!” on SpikeTV - don't miss the last stop on the road to Turning Point!

TNA News & Notes

www.GrappleFanatics.net

Vince Russo has released an official statement of apology on TNAwrestling.com, after he arrived late at the Impact Tapings last week. Russo was working a 1PW show in the UK over the weekend, and was not able to return to Orlando in time for Monday's show after his return flight was delayed by three hours. Backstage at Impact was said to be hectic, with many wrestlers not knowing where or when they would be working on the show. The booking was instead taken into the hands of Jeff Jarrett and Shane Douglas. Despite the anarchy backstage, many have considered this week's Impact to be one of the best Impact's in a long time, with a PPV-quality main event, and some great segments between Raven, Abyss and Sting.

There was also some trouble at the Impact tapings with the Voodoo Kin Mafia (BG James and Kip James). It has been reported that both Kip and BG demanded more money for their current position (their deal, like many of the veteran wrestlers in TNA, is a spot on the card each week, with only real wrestling commitments taking place at Pay-Per-Views). This came out of the blue as they were seen as very respected workers, who were often wanting to put over the younger talent, rather than being in the spotlight. They did not appear live on Impact, and it's debatable whether or not they will appear in a taped segment, as Jeff Jarrett and Vince Russo are reportedly very annoyed at their recent behaviour. Their current gimmick, in which they are fighting a 'war' against the WWE and D-Generation-X was met with great support from the live crowd, but great animosity backstage and with home audiences. There is a possibility the angle will be dropped altogether, and both Kip and BG could be cut from their contracts.

The angle that closed this week's Impact, which saw Rhino put Kurt Angle through a table was reportedly Kurt's idea. A lot of internet sites were pointing blame at Russo for the angle, saying that with Angle's condition, it should have never even been thought of; but Angle said in an online radio show yesterday that he wanted to do it, and that even Russo and Jarrett were weary of him doing it on Impact. This has just gone to show how much of a company man Angle is, and it's garnered him a lot of respect both backstage at Impact and with the fans, despite it being an extremely risky move. Angle said his reasons for suggesting it was to make Rhino look like a maniac for their match at Turning Point. Angle also commented on Samoa Joe in the interview, saying he was really looking forward to fighting him again down the line; saying he didn't realise how good Joe really was until he stepped in the ring with him.

Former NWA World Champion; Ron "The Truth" Killings has reportedly left TNA for a WWE development contract, where he is set to start working in OVW. Killings has been floating in midcard obscurity since 3LK broke up in Summer 2005. Although he was well liked by both the wrestlers and management, Killings is seen as no great loss from the TNA locker-rooms, as there was no real plans for him to be pushed in the near future, and had even not been present to some tapings due to not having a position.

There is talk of replacing Hernandez with Senshi in LAX, after a few weak performances in recent tapings. LAX has already gone through Apollo and Ricky "Machete" Vega in LAX as partners to Homicide, and Hernandez was considered the best of the three. Adding Senshi to the group has been discussed a few times before, but usually it was just a case of adding him as a solos star, however, the current plan is to instead add Senshi as Homicide's partner, and have Hernandez as the muscle behind them, as well as being an occasional solo's star.

The Jim Cornette v Konnan Strap Match challenge that Konnan issued on Impact is still being taken into consideration. The idea would be to have it as a back-drop to the Tag Team Match, with Konnan picking up an easy victory to continue the feud with Cornette. The plan is to have LAX drop the titles at Turning Point but stick around and continue to feud with Cornette, so having him be beat by Konnan in quick time at Turning Point could help carry the feud into 2007.

[EMS]

I never usual like reading TNA Diarys, but this is very good!

[TGC]

EMS, don't postwhore again.

As for my thoughts:

-LOVED the line by Christian about his yard or garden or whatever because he didn't know what was and what wasn't copyrighted anymore. Sheer brilliance. I didn't so much like the chicken suit line though, and I'm not sure why.

-LAX going into the gauntlet type match at Turning Point is a good idea, but potentially giving away the results of the match in the news thing isn't a great plan in my eyes.

-So Team 3D return, and the fact that The Naturals put them through a table the week before Genesis is forgotten? Bad form. I hope The Naturals are the third team to face LAX, or at least interfere and cause Team 3D to lose.

-Speaking of The Naturals, The Franchise hasn't berated them since they stood up for themselves and bloodied his mouth. They are all acting more like a chohesive unit, and he finally respects them. Just saying, since he berated them for not being over enough.

-Sabin just turned heel at Genesis, and now he's playing face in favor of AJ's heel turn? I'd rather see the Sabin heel turn continue as he faces off with say Lethal and Sonjay. Just please don't ignore the heel turn.

-I hope VKM aren't gone. It might be a shit idea, but it is getting over. At the very least they could lose to some up and coming new team who challenged them based on the idea that this is TNA, and they don't like not getting TV time in favor of a war of words by VKM that will never result in anything.

-Your Paparazzi Productions thing was funny as all hell. I laughed out loud. Very nice.

-Good to see The Briscoes. Tag Team Champion within four months, mark my words.

-I like Hernandez, and while seeing Senshi join LAX is cool, having him pretty much replace Hernandez is not.

-Raven/Sting/Abyss could be great. I know it would rock on the mic, but the wrestling could be good too. Hope it is.

-Angle/Rhino and Christian/Joe has been stupendous thus far. I look forward to both matches at Turning Point.

-So Robert Roode tweaked his gimmick and his issues with Traci cane to an end? After he lost to EY at Genesis? Oooookay.

All in all, I like it a lot. You seem to have some continuity gaffs, but nothing too terrible. Overall Grade B

[probablyoliver]

yeah, the continuity gaffs are entirely my fault, because I've not been up to date with TNA for a long time, this diary really was spur of the moment after reading Genesis results and me thinking 'oooh, i reckon i'd like a go', so my bad on that; i'll be working to fix them things for sure.

The Hernandez thing is entirely through TEW telling me he's not good enough; so instead of dragging down Homicide as well, I thought I'd switch my original plans with Senshi as the solos star and move it onto Hernandez. But then saying that; i've still not entirely decided which way to go with it all; so it could go either way.

VKM aren't gone, they just both turned up late to the same show, along with Russo; so I thought I'd play up the curveball TEW threw me and suspend them.

Cheers for the comments tho TGC, I do appreciate it, and hope I can bump up my grade somewhere in the future.

As for now; I'm just booking Impact Week 3, and starting to write it. I am on fire!

[probablyoliver]

TNA presents; iMPACT! on SpikeTV;

Thursday, Week 3, December 2006

Impact starts off backstage, with NWA World Heavyweight Champion; 'The Monster' Abyss being led by 'Father' James Mitchell down a long, narrow hallway. As the two turn a corner, they run into Sting and the crowd go berserk. Abyss and Sting go nose to nose for a moment before Sting turns to Mitchell. Sting says that tonight he'll put personal feelings aside and do his best to get rid of the New Movement. Mitchell laughs it off, saying that now that Sting is shrouded in darkness, he won't be able to stop any personal feelings. But Mitchell continues, and says that when the tension snaps and Sting does fall into darkness tonight, Abyss will be prepared, and the Monster will snap Sting's frail old body like a twig. Sting looks pissed off, but Mitchell shrugs it off and continues, telling Sting that until that happens, they're on the same wavelength. Mitchell says that Sting is deteriorating without the NWA World Title strapped around his waist, and he'll do anything to get it back; and that is his downfall; he'll lose all focus and will be beat this Sunday at Turning Point. But Mitchell repeats himself word-for-word; "until that happens, we're on the same wavelength". Mitchell laughs and leads Abyss off, leaving Sting looking pissed.

Match One

'The Phenomenal' AJ Styles v Cassidy Riley

AJ still got a pretty good reaction coming out of the Impact Zone; which was a shame, seeing as his heel antics seem to be working for him. Cassidy Riley, on the other hand, got no reaction whatsoever, which was to be expected. AJ made light work of Riley, and was in control throughout the match, with Cassidy getting seemingly no offence in whatsoever. By the one minute mark; AJ was just toying with Cassidy; he hit some nice kicks and flips, but didn't pin him, which he could have done at any point. AJ put Riley down with a Pelé Kick, and pinned; getting a two count before raising his shoulders off the mat; and the crowd (unfortunately) ate it all up. The end came a few seconds later when AJ hit a simple Styles Clash and pinned for the three count.

Result: AJ Styles d. Cassidy Riley w/ s Styles Clash [1:40] [C+]

Backstage and Samoa Joe is standing by with Terry Taylor. Joe plays his usual intense self, saying that Christian Cage did a stupid thing by putting his unbeaten streak up against Joe, because the one and only time Joe's been cleanly beaten in the last 18 months in TNA, he was against "the better man". This time he's against a "joke of a wrestler, a spineless coward and a weasel". Joe says he'll make Cage pass out, and then he'll personally sit their and wait for him to come to, just so he can do it again. Joe's "on a pilgrimage" to the NWA World Championship, and Christian is nothing but a bump in the road to it and he has no chance of stopping Joe's "freight train". Joe says he's had a lot of worthy opponents in TNA before, but Christian will not be one of them. Joe says as soon as he's done with Cage, he's going to earn back his stripes and beat Angle at Final Resolution.

After a short Commercial break we're backstage with Konnan and the NWA World Tag Team Champions; LAX; Homicide y Hernandez. Konnan says he doesn't care that LAX are fighting three teams at Turning Point, saying that of the two teams already announced, the LAX have already destroyed one, and the other were past it long ago. Konnan said he still had the Strap Match challenge open; and he wanted Cornette to take it sooner rather than later; because the longer he waited the more pumped Konnan would get. Konnan said it didn't matter who was fighting tonight in the Tag Team Turmoil, whoever won would be destroyed at Turning Point anyway. Konnan said Cornette was making a big mistake booking this match, because it'd just make the three teams look like 'jobbers' when they laid down for LAX. Homicide yelled something in Spanish as the transmission ended.

Match Two

Christopher Daniels v Petey Williams

It was clear X-Division Champion; 'Fallen Angel' Christopher Daniels had other things on his mind as he made his entrance only to see his Turning Point challenger; AJ Styles sitting at the Commentary desk, so it was no surprise that his non-title challenge for the night; Petey Williams got the upperhand straight away in the match; rolling up Daniels for a quick two count. The two wrestled back and forth, and gave the fans plenty of hits and near misses to get into the match in the first couple of minutes. The first true near fall came when Daniels hit a beautiful BME off the top rope onto Petey which got a very close two-count. The two continued to wrestle like this; getting some chain wrestling going, before someone got the upperhand and a near fall to go with it. There was a nice spot with Daniels going for the Last Rites, but Petey spun out of it, rolled around Daniels and rolled him up for a quick one count which was met with a dropkick from Daniels to the seated Williams. The end came when Daniels hit the Angel's Wings, but got distracted by AJ who had jumped up on the apron. The two argued and AJ slapped Daniels hard round the face, giving Petey enough time to recover, spin Daniels round and hit the AmeriCanadian Destroyer for the three count victory in a good, but not great non-title match.

Result: Petey Williams d. Christopher Daniels w/ a AmeriCanadian Destroyer [6:01] [b ]

As Christopher Daniels looked on in disbelief at losing his Turning Point warm-up match, his Turning Point opponent; 'The Phenomenal One" AJ Styles laughed from the ramp. Daniels got up to his feet and called AJ down, calling him a 'coward' and a 'bastard'. AJ complied and swaggered back down the ramp and into the ring, going nose-to-nose with Daniels. This stance didn't last long though, and the two started a pushing war. Soon that broke down and they started to trade punches with neither getting the upperhand for a few seconds until AJ ducked a jab and hit a nice Roundhouse Kick on Daniels. The two continued to brawl on the mat, which ended up with both men rolling out of the ring and continuing the fight. Daniels got the upperhand, and managed to slam AJ into the ring steps, before throwing him into and over the crowd barrier. Daniels climbed over himself, and the two X-Division stars continued to brawl in the crowd, much to the delight of those in attendance. The two fought out of the crowd and into backstage, ending up in the backstage area. They brawled, using the items lying round at their disposal, which included sending AJ into a mass of steel pipes. Daniels picked AJ straight back up and the continued with their trading of blows, ending when AJ threw Daniels straight through a plate glass window, knocking him clean out. AJ taunted Daniels, saying he was going to take the X-Division Gold on Sunday at Turning Point, no matter what Daniels did about it. AJ then spat on the champion and left post-haste through the parking lot.

Following the huge brawl, former NWA World Heavyweight Champion; Christian Cage was interviewed regarding his match with Samoa Joe at Turning Point. Cage said he was prepared for Joe, and had studied his fighting style at freak shows and in backyards. Christian said Joe was nothing to fear, rather just a few too many Hershey’s and a mix up with the Slim Fast plan. Cage said the only thing he feared about fighting Joe was that his Insurance Policy didn't cover getting sat on by Psuedo-Sumos. After a couple of jokes, Christian went all serious, saying he did have an Insurance Policy lined up for Turning Point, and that Joe wouldn't know what hit him. Christian said he'd beaten every wrestler Joe had and more. Cage said he'd been a different man over the last few months, and that Joe couldn't comprehend just how much fight Cage had in him. Christian said he feasts on competition and winning, and that's why he'd never lost, he then chimed in saying that Joe lost because he just feasts on Subway and Ice Cream. Christian finished by saying he'd see Joe at Turning Point, and then he'd see Joe getting his ass kicked, and then finally he'd see Joe getting his shoulders pinned down to the mat - 1. 2. 3.

Match Three

The Naturals v The Briscoes v Dutt & Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

After a break; Impact came back with all four teams in the ring ready to compete, with Jeremy Borash running down the rules. It'd be an elimination bout, with the teams drawing numbers to determine who went first. The Naturals and Dutt & Lethal were up first, and they had a nice little bout going; some nice reversals early on from both teams, with Lethal looking like a future main eventer and really getting the crowds attention with some nice moonsaults and a couple of brutal kicks to Andy Douglas. The end came pretty quickly, with Dutt and Lethal hitting simultaneous Superplexs from opposite sides of the ring, and getting the double pin at [3.45]. As the Naturals were eliminated and making their way up the ramp, Austin Starr stood on the ring apron and laughed at them, mocking them for losing. This distraction allowed Jay Lethal to grab him from behind and hit his signature Release Dragon Suplex, sending him into the ring and into a Hindu Press from Sonjay Dutt, for a very quick surprise victory at [3.53]. This left only two teams left, the Briscoes and Dutt & Lethal. The two teams of independent superstars started off really quickly, with Lethal and Dutt retaining the momentum they had had throughout the bout, but it wasn't for long, as Jay and Mark hit simultaneous Plancha's out of the ring and into Lethal & Dutt. From there it all went down hill for Lethal & Dutt, who were met with lots of nice submissions and double team combinations from the Briscoes. The match ended with a Brainbuster / Diving Cross Bady Splash combo from the two brothers, giving them the victory just shy of ten minutes.

Result: The Briscoes won Tag Team Turmoil! [9:58] [C+]

As the Briscoes, Mark Briscoe and Jay Briscoe stood in the ring celebrating another successful night in TNA; they were ambushed by the NWA World Tag Team Champions; Homicide and Hernandez; the LAX. The warn-down Briscoes were no match for the fresh LAX; who made light work of them, tossing each Briscoe about like they were nothing. But as Homicide hit a Gringo Killah on Jay; the Briscoes got some help from America's Most Wanted; 'Wildcat' Chris Harris and 'Cowboy' James Storm. The former champs chased LAX out of the ring, and Homicide and Hernandez decided enough was enough and started to walk up the other side of the Impact Zone ramp. But it was no good as they were ambushed again; this time by Team 3D; Brother Ray and Devon who attacked with great force. This allowed AMW to join in the beatdown, and take down both member of LAX - 4-On-1. Hernandez was made light work of with a Death Sentence from AMW, as Homicide was hit with a Reverse 3D from Brother Ray & Devon. This led to Ray pushing his 'brother' and screaming his name, resulting in the entire crowd erupting with "GET THE TABLES!!!". Devon followed orders exactly, and laid a table out centre of the ring. Homicide was lined up aaaand... 3D - right thru the table. AMW and Team 3D celebrated together, along with the now risen Briscoes; as the LAX got their first full taste of Turning Point.

Following a commercial break, Mike Tenay announced it was time to join Olympic Gold Medallist Kurt Angle with his live press conference regarding this Sunday's Turning Point. Angle appeared on screen, sitting in a large armchair with a neck brace around his neck. Angle thanked TNA, Mike Tenay and the fans for the support he had received since last Thursday’s attack from Rhino, but said it wasn't enough; because an e-mail saying "U ROK ANKLE!" won't make him any better, it won't help him kiss his daughter's forehead before she sleeps and it won't help him get better in time to kick Rhino's ass Sunday at Turning Point. Angle said the fans were idiots, and that he hated their phoney support, because it didn't help him get anywhere; it didn't help him win the Olympics, it didn't help him taste his first Pro Wrestling Gold in 2000 and it didn't help him when he tried to bring a "second rate company out of the mud", and he wasn't talking about WWE. For the first time in Angle's TNA tenure, the crowd booed him, and even started the infamous "You Suck!" chant. Angle said he'd be at Turning Point, and he'd wrestle Rhino; not for the fans, but to put Rhino thru the same pain Rhino had put him thru in the last week. Angle said that if he hadn't signed a gridlock contract with TNA, he'd have already left; because he was above the likes of Sting, Samoa Joe and AJ Styles. Angle said he misses true competition and excitement, because TNA wouldn't know competition if it stepped right up and smacked them in the face. Angle said if he was there tonight he'd take the time to line up every fan, wrestler and road agent in TNA and personally spit on them, because it was a mockery of a company. Angle signed off with by flipping the birdie to the camera and ending transmission, as the entire Impact Zone erupted with boos!

Main Event

'The Monster' Abyss & Sting v The New Movement

The New Movement once again came out sans Raven, and it put both Sting and Abyss on edge, who although came out separate, got some pretty favourable cheers. Even Abyss got a pretty good reception coming out thru the Impact Zone. The match itself was pretty much a five minute squash, with the New Movement getting minimal offence in, in favour of giving the fans a reason to mark out with constant Sting and Abyss being on the constant offence. Sting hit Stinger Splashes on all three members of the New Movement, setting up for Abyss to mimic and hit his running Splash into the Turnbuckle on all three men. The two then shared some alliance, hitting a simultaneous Black Hole Slam / Scorpion Death Drop on Bentley and Kazarian respectively, before hitting a Double Chokeslam on Devine. The two then looked like they were going to clash themselves, having a short stare-down before returning to their opponents. Abyss threw Bentley and Devine from the ring as Sting locked in the Scorpion Deathlock, and the New Movement member had no choice but to tap out!

Result: Abyss & Sting d. The New Movement w/ a Scorpion Deathlock [6:34] [b ]

Following the match; Sting and Abyss stood starring each other down, before Sting out-stretched his hand and offered it respectfully to the NWA World Heavyweight Champion. But before Abyss could return the gesture, a voice came booming into the arena, and the camera's scanned the arena to find it, finally spotting Raven sitting in the rafters. Raven said that this was Phase 1 completed, and that neither Abyss nor Sting would know the implications of their alliance come Sunday night. Raven said the New Movement was only just beginning, and that the first church of Raven was now in session. Raven said he would collect the souls to worship him over time, and that Kazarian, Bentley and Devine were just the beginning. Raven said he was not going to make false promises, because he couldn't predict the future. Instead Raven said that no matter what the result was at Turning Point, he'd be NWA World Heavyweight Champion before the year was over. Raven told Abyss that Sting was not to be trusted, because he was still engulfed in darkness, and he should think twice before shaking hands with the devil reincarnated. Raven laughed as Sting looked to and from the rafters to Abyss, putting an end to the final Impact before Turning Point!

Short Results

• Taped for Xplosion: Senshi d. Shark Boy [1:39] [C]
• AJ Styles d. Cassidy Riley [1:40] [C+]
• Petey Williams d. Christopher Daniels [6:01] [b ]
• The Briscoes won a Tag Team Turmoil [9:58] [C+]
• Abyss & Sting d. The New Movement [6:34] [b ]

Edited November 29, 2006 by O!

[probablyoliver]

TNA News & Notes

www.GrappleFanatics.net

The Voodoo Kin Mafia, BG and Kip James have been suspended from TNAwrestling, it has been reported. They have been the bane of backstage over the last few weeks; demanding more money, better spots and refusing to job since given the VKM gimmick last month before Genesis. Vince Russo is apparently still really high on the angle and wants to continue it after their suspension is over mid January. The current kayfabe idea behind their sudden departure is to have them start to appear in taped segments, where they will be speaking against the WWE, before returning to competition to carry on with the angle in January.

Final Resolution will be the second TNA pay-per-view to move away from the Impact Zone, and will be held in the Tri-State area. TNA officials are adament that they can draw around 10,000 people in that market, and so are looking to set up in the Boardwalk Hall in New Jersey. It'd be great news if they could sellout Boardwalk, as it would really make TNA management optimistic about switching to a full touring schedule somewhere down the line.

Scott Steiner, who has not been seen in TNA for some months has stated he wants to return to action in the new year, but there is reportedly nothing for him as of yet. Many feel that with the recent addition of Kurt Angle, as well as the main event pushes of Samoa Joe and Raven, that the upper-tier of the card is getting too crowded, and that guys like Steiner would really add nothing to the product if put in an on-screen role. However, Dixie Carter is still adament that the best way to get TNA noticed is by using big names from 5-10 years ago in order to reach the old school fans, so a return for Steiner is not entirely out of the question.

It's believed that Chris Sabin will be kept off-screen for a few weeks, in order to return him with a new gimmick and possibly a new name. Vince Russo is said to be quite high on the X-Division as the main drawing point of TNA, and he's gone on record as to saying he wants to move AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels up to the Main Event scene in the new year, rather then keeping them in the X-Division. This means that guys like Chris Sabin, Petey Williams and Jay Lethal could be pushed as the new main draws of the X-Division, rather than playing second fiddle to AJ and Daniels.

It's possible that Raven's 'New Movement' will be 'christened' with new names, in order to make them sound less out of place in their current gimmicks. Many feel that having names such as 'Maverick' Matt attached to such a gimmick devalues it, and that they need more gothic sounding names to make them seem more likely for the gimmick.

[probablyoliver]

Total Non-Stop Action presents...

TURNING POINT 2006

NWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

NO DISQUALIFICATIONS

'The Monster' ABYSS =O= v STING v RAVEN

Since winning the NWA World Heavyweight Championship in controversial fashion last month at Genesis; Abyss has been on the top of the hitlist for two extremely experienced ring veterans, and two former NWA World Champions; Sting and Raven. Raven's 'New Movement' has given him the numbers edge over the past three weeks, but it's been Sting's burnign desire for gold and glory that has allowed him to stay afloat in the competition. So can Abyss retain his title over the psychopathic rage of Raven and the psychological mind of Sting, or will experience triumph over power, marking a Turning Point in the legacy of the NWA World Championship?

TNA X DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

'Fallen Angel' CHRISTOPHER DANIELS =O= v 'The Phenomenal One' AJ STYLES

X Division Champion, 'Fallen Angel' Christopher Daniels and 'The Phenomenal One' AJ Styles are no strangers to each other. In TNA alone they have fought against each other in one of the most excilirating rivalries and they've fought side by side in one of the most exciting tag teams in TNA history. Now they do battle again, but this time it's AJ Styles who's rage has taken over, showing a darker side to The Phenomenal One's arsenal. Will this new edge give AJ the advantage and the X-Division Title, or will the wit of the Fallen Angel shine through and allow him to triumph over AJ and retain the X-Division Championship at Turning Point?

NWA WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

LAX =O= v THE BRISCOES v AMERICA'S MOST WANTED v TEAM 3D

Since winning the NWA World Tag Team Titles at Bound for Glory; Konnan's Latin American eXchange have proved to be one of the most dominating and dangerous teams in the TNA history books. But during their title reign, they've made some very powerful enemies, including the Director of Authority of TNA Wrestling; Jim Cornette - who announced at the start of the month that LAX would have to put their titles on the line at Turning Point in a four-way match against three of TNA's most exciting tag teams; and when they lost they'd be fired! Will LAX defy all odds and come out with the gold, or will the combination of Team 3D, America's Most Wanted and The Briscoes trump LAX and put them on the unemployed list?

'THE WAR MACHINE' RHINO v KURT ANGLE

When 'The War Machine' Rhino made an open challenge at the start of the month; Kurt Angle answered, despite being locked in a bitter feud with Samoa Joe. Many thought it'd be a simple, almost friendly encounter until two weeks ago on Impact when Rhino destroyed Kurt Angle's already weak neck with a vicious Piledriver thru a table. Kurt then made his true feelings known in a live video feed, saying he'll come to Turning Point just to make a mockery of Rhino. Will Kurt's new lease of life and TNA give him the edge, or will his already broken down body allow Rhino to get the upperhand the victory at Turning Point?

'The Samoan Submission Machine' SAMOA JOE v 'Captain Charisma' CHRISTIAN CAGE

Since turning on Sting at Hard Justice; Christian's large mouth and cocky attitude has got him into some nasty feuds with some of TNA's top stars. None of them, however, compare to this; the 280lb 'Samoan Submission Machine' Samoa Joe. Christian has shared a war of words against Joe ove the last three weeks, and has said he'll gladly put his 'never been pinned or made to submit' unbeaten streak against Joe at Turning Point. Joe has only ever been defeated once in TNA at the hands of Kurt Angle last month at Genesis. Will this dip in momentum give Christian the edge, or will Joe be back on top form at Turning Point?

STRAP MATCH

'Director of Authority' JIM CORNETTE v KONNAN

Two weeks ago Konnan, the leader of the LAX challenged Director of Authority; Jim Cornette to a Strap Match at Turning Point. Though he initially declined the challenge, this week on TNAwrestling.com, Cornette accepted, saying he may not be actively trained, but he'll have no trouble beating Konnan with a Strap. Will Cornette's lack of training show, causing him defeat, or will he pull out the biggest upset in wrestling history at Turning Point?

ALSO FEATURING:

Robert Roode's Open Challenge

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

The New Movement in 6-Man X-Division Action!

-

Turning Point Prediction Contest

www.GrappleFanatics.net

Every month GrappleFanatics.net runs a prediction contest for the monthly TNA pay-per-views with prizes too be won! This month, the winner receives tickets to the Final Resolution Pay-Per-View next month in New Jersey, as well as a special behind-the-scenes meet-and-greet with all your favourite TNA stars! The winner will also receive a TNA t-shirt and Turning Point DVD.

All you have to do to enter is give us your predictions for the Turning Point PPV, as well as reasoning for your predictions. There are also bonus questions to answer to receive extra points!

Good luck to everyone who votes!

Scoring Key:

Championship Bouts: 2 points for each correct answer.

Regular Bouts: 1 point for each correct answer.

Bons Questions: 1 point for each correct answer.

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

Rhino v Kurt Angle

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

Jim Cornette v Konnan

Robert Roode v X

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

The New Movement v X

Bonus Questions

1. Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent?
2. How many titles will change hands?
3. Who will be pinned in the Main Event?

   Total Points available: 15

-

OOC: Just a disclaimer. The GrappleFanatics banner was made by ADGray yonks ago. All the other graphics have been expertly made by Evil Empire. Cheers lads.

Edited November 30, 2006 by O!

[Guest musclebuster]

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

Rhino v Kurt Angle

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

Jim Cornette v Konnan

Robert Roode v Petey Williams

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

The New Movement v X

Bonus Questions

Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent?

I'm just guessing Williams because he isn't on the card and could continue Roode losing too Team Canada members a pay per views.

How many titles will change hands?

I've gotta say just the X-Division title, i like Abyss as World Champ and LAX keeping the tag titles is something i wanna see lol, these guys are awesome.

Who will be pinned in the Main Event?

Sting, i think having Raven lose the match may defeat the object of the push, a Raven/Abyss feud would be awesome, it would be cool to see Raven as champ somewhere down the line but not just yet.

I have to say man, the diary is awesome i really enjoyed reading all of it. But i have to agree with godcomplex in the Hernandez thing don't drop him from LAX in favour of Senshi but bringing in Senshi is something i think TNA is starting over the next few weeks also so will be cool to see how you do it. Keep it up man. You got yourself a reader.

[Steve Corino]

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

I know we're dealing with Russo booking here, but Abyss should keep the belt here. He's only had it a month, leave it alone.

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

Meanwhile the X Division belt has jumped around three times in a month, so one more in order to put AJ's heel turn over more won't hurt anything.

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

I think LAX will continue to make good champions, if for no other reason than to just get Cornette's goat more.

Rhino v Kurt Angle

As much as I don't like it, Angle is being built here while Rhino isn't.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

Joe's going to need rebuilt after losing to Kurt, and no better place to start than here.

Jim Cornette v Konnan

If this isn't what happens then there'd better be some major interference happening.

Robert Roode v X

One of these two mystery opponents is going to win and it might as well be here. Though I've really no clue who it's going to be.

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

As hilarious as their segments have been, Shelley and Starr are going to need to win once in awhile.

The New Movement v X

Unless you're making a huge debut here, then it's better off for Raven's crew to win here. Oh, and if you're going this route on giving them more gothic names, go with Michael, Jonathan, and Frank, because Francis makes him sound like a woman.

Bonus Questions

1. Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? No idea.

2. How many titles will change hands? 2

3. Who will be pinned in the Main Event? I agree with musclebuster that Sting should be the one taking the fall here.

[Kwanzabot]

Turning Point Prediction Contest

www.GrappleFanatics.net

Every month GrappleFanatics.net runs a prediction contest for the monthly TNA pay-per-views with prizes too be won! This month, the winner receives tickets to the Final Resolution Pay-Per-View next month in New Jersey, as well as a special behind-the-scenes meet-and-greet with all your favourite TNA stars! The winner will also receive a TNA t-shirt and Turning Point DVD.

All you have to do to enter is give us your predictions for the Turning Point PPV, as well as reasoning for your predictions. There are also bonus questions to answer to receive extra points!

Good luck to everyone who votes!

Scoring Key:

Championship Bouts: 2 points for each correct answer.

Regular Bouts: 1 point for each correct answer.

Bons Questions: 1 point for each correct answer.

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

- Usually I wouldn't like another short reign, but I really think "The New Movement" needs a kick up the arse.

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

- Basically compensating for Abyss' short reign, not hotshotting another title.

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

- Not sure on this one, but to make it easy, I've gone with either LAX or Briscoes. I hope that LAX keep the title, and Briscoes pick them up later on, but you seem high on Briscoes, so it's a "either or" situation here.

Rhino v Kurt Angle

- This one I can't decide, but I'll go with Rhino, mainly because Kurt'll be gone soon enough.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

- Yeah, he's not losing two PPVs in a row. FACT.

Jim Cornette v Konnan

- Konnan Wrestles, Cornette doesn't. However, I see this forwarding an angle.

Robert Roode v X

- I see it being a returning star...

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

- Starr and Shelley need to really move towards the tag scene. Dutt and Lethal, whilst being "X-Division's Future" are basically not as charismatic as Shelley and Starr, and therefore need to be thier tag fodder.

The New Movement v X

- Like I said before, this group is going to be the future of TNA. So they need a kick up the arse.

Bonus Questions

1. Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? Senshi
2. How many titles will change hands? 1
3. Who will be pinned in the Main Event? Sting

   Total Points available: 15

[TheTruth]

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

- Abyss should look strong as a champion & having him beat these two here will help.

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

- It's an easy way to continue the feud.

NWA World Tag Team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

- You seem high on them, plus LAX doesn't need them anymore as their focus is on Cornette.

Rhino v Kurt Angle

- He should win because of his turn, even though I don't understand why you turned him.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

- He's only going to lose to Angle, not Cage.

Jim Cornette v Konnan

- Konnan will go over, you said in the news notes.

Robert Roode v X

- 'X' will go over because he will be returning.

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

- PP will go over, smell feud between them & Briscoes.

The New Movement v X

- They need to look strong.

Bonus Questions

Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? Senshi

How many titles will change hands? 2

Who will be pinned in the Main Event? Sting

[Michael]

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

-The real evolving issue here is the potential for a Sting/Raven feud so Abyss needs to retain in order to back away and face a new challenger.

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

- The new attitude needs to be legitimised.

NWA World Tag Team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

- Cause they're your handpicked chosen one's and LAX don't need the gold anymore with Senshi on board, making them a fully-blown faction.

Rhino v Kurt Angle

- Notch another one up for Angle on his route to the gold. I expect him to be the Champ within two months. Oh, and push Rhino, because honestly, you're wasting him right now. My favourite wrestler ever.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

- My guess is it's going to be Abyss/Joe for the Title, with Joe as Champ then taking Angle on again.

Jim Cornette v Konnan

- Cornette's going to bleed like a pig with Senshi interfering to solidify LAX's thug-like persona.

Robert Roode v X

- This'll be the last straw for Roode into a new direction.

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

- Even though I want Dutt and Lethal to win badly, PP are more rounded characters right about now.

The New Movement v X

- Require some slight rebuilding after being decimiated by Abyss.

Bonus Questions

Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? Scott Steiner

How many titles will change hands? 2

Who will be pinned in the Main Event? Sting

[TGC]

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

Even though it is Russo booking, for some reason I'm just not feeling a title change yet. Matbe in another month. But I do expect this threeway feud to continue on.

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

As Michael said, the new heelish ways needs a title win to cement it.

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

I don't know why, I'm just feeling that LAX somehow scrape out a win.

Rhino v Kurt Angle

I love Rhino, but Angle is the main man for TNA right now, and he won't lose until he finally lays down for Joe.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

Angle can defeat Joe, but not Christian. I almost went with some kind of DQ ending, but I'm going to say instead that Joe ends Christian's undefeated streak after a little over a year in TNA.

Jim Cornette v Konnan

Bloodbath? Yes.

Robert Roode v X

Roode is a walking failure right now, which just makes me so sad.

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

PP needs a win right now.

The New Movement v X

If The New Movement don't win here they lose any and all credibility forever.

Bonus Questions

Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent?Just going out on a limb, and damn Michael for getting it up before I did, but I'm going to go with Steiner since he was just mentioned.

How many titles will change hands?Just the X Title.

Who will be pinned in the Main Event?Raven is pinned by Abyss.

[Guest Power Master]

Just finished reading your diary, it's quite good!

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

- Abyss needs to keep the belt, to many title canges would make TNA feel to much like WCW 2000 (although Russo is booking this diary, or in Diary... I'm confused!)

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

- Personaly I think these two's feuds has been down to the death. But anyway! Daniels should win!

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

- 5150 all the way! LAX have really help make the Tag Titles mean a lot!

Rhino v Kurt Angle

- He needs to win to make Joe's Win (It must happen) Seem bigtime! Although I wish Rhino would go over, but wouldn't make any sense.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

- If Joe loses then almost all momemtum he had over the past 18 months has gone!

Jim Cornette v Konnan

- Got to be K-Dog! Cornette isn't a in-ring wrestler so it would make Konnan seem shit!

Robert Roode v X

- I dislike Roode alot, I think he is talentless, so I hope he loses!

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

- I hope Shelley gets a singles push like Jericho's soon!

The New Movement v X

- They should win, or they'll seem like complete jobbers!

Bonus Questions

Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? Norman Smiley

How many titles will change hands? None

Who will be pinned in the Main Event? Raven

[Nerf]

Total Non-Stop Action presents...

TURNING POINT 2006

Scoring Key:

Championship Bouts: 2 points for each correct answer.

Regular Bouts: 1 point for each correct answer.

Bons Questions: 1 point for each correct answer.

Abyss v Raven v Sting - You can't take the belt off him yet, even if you ARE Russo.

Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles - I'm a sucker for heel AJ, as long as he's holding gold!

LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes - With Senshi on board, there's nothing stopping them from taking over.

Rhino v Kurt Angle - Angle's being pushed. Rhino isn't. It's as simple as that.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe - You can't undo everything TNA did for Joe in the past year(s), so don't have him lose at a PPV twice in a row.

Jim Cornette v Konnan - If you want blood, you got it!

Robert Roode v X - Fodder?

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions - I'll never speak to you again if they lose.

The New Movement v X - Don't kill their heat, for God's sake.

Bonus Questions

1. Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? Petey Williams
2. How many titles will change hands? 1
3. Who will be pinned in the Main Event? Sting

   Total Points available: 15

-

OOC: Just a disclaimer. The GrappleFanatics banner was made by ADGray yonks ago. All the other graphics have been expertly made by Evil Empire. Cheers lads.

[Kyle730]

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting - He just won the belt, and I don't see it going off him that quick

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles - I'm expecting to see AJ to hit the ref or something to cause a DQ

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes - What a good debut it'd be for the Briscoes to beat LAX

Rhino v Kurt Angle - Rhino: TNA's resident jobber to the stars.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe - There's no undefeated streak to worry about, so I'm expecting a quick roll up

Jim Cornette v Konnan - Simple as this: Konnan's a wrestler, Cornette's not

Robert Roode v X - He better win. Roode isn't a jobber, or at least he shouldn't be. :pinch:

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions - It's Shelley! C'mon!

The New Movement v X - Their calling themselves a New Movement, and losing to people over and over again isn't going to really "move" anything, now is it?

Bonus Questions

1. Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? Petey Williams

2. How many titles will change hands? One

3. Who will be pinned in the Main Event? Sting

[ROZAY]

First, I have to commend you for writing an awesome diary. Your format is very simple, yet entertaining. You've got a real talent for writing not only your well-thought, brilliant segments, but your matches as well. Great stuff, and I shall continue reading and writing feedback. Like TGC mentioned, you ignored a couple of angles already going on here and there, but you're the booker, so I guess whatever you want to do for your diary is good, even if it's not completly realistic. Nevertheless, this is one of the best TNA diaries I've ever read, and actually has me very interested in things, as I'm normally not a fan of TNA diaries. Good job. (Y)

And now... onto the predictions:

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

Reason: Abyss's reign just got going, and you have many different ways to go with him. I see "money" in Raven/Sting later down the line for the belt, but I don't think it would be a smart move for you to just make Abyss a transitional champion, especially when he has one of the hottest things going for him. So... "The Monster" retains here.

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

Reason: Too much heat on AJ Styles right now, that a victory wouldn't hurt him, and in fact would add a lot to his heel persona. Besides, I like to go by the logic that whoever has the upper hand in the feud going into the PPV usually loses, and Styles has had the upper hand on Daniels thus far. So, Daniels retains here, but Styles gets the last laugh in.

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

Reason: In lighten of you stating that more then likely Hernandez will be pushed as a singles star, I say LAX drops the belt here, Homicide & Senshi chase them, and regain them soon enough. Team 3-D seems to be the right team here for LAX to chase, as AMW & The Briscoes don't really have much going for them right now.

Rhino v Kurt Angle

Reason: Kurt Angle is one of your biggest stars. While doing a job to Rhino won't hurt him, I can't see Angle losing on PPV just yet.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

Reason: Like my prediction above, Samoa Joe is the future of TNA. While doing a job to Christian Cage won't hurt him, I also can't see Joe losing here, especially after just losing to Angle the month before.

Jim Cornette v Konnan

Reason: Because it's fucking Konnan, that's why. Senshi interferes and helps Konnan get the V.

Robert Roode v X

Reason: Why not? Roode doesn't have much going for him. An upset win wouldn't hurt him in the long run either.

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

Reason: No real reason, but mainly because you seem focused on pushing these guys. What better way then to get some jobbers to be destroyed by them?

The New Movement v X

Reason: Same reason as above.

Bonus Questions

Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? Eric Young? I don't know...

How many titles will change hands? 1 - The Tag titles

Who will be pinned in the Main Event? Raven. I don't want him to be, but Raven wouldn't be hurt by taking the pinfall here.

[ClaRK! Kent]

Ollie-san, a marvellous start thus far. I won't bore you with a long-winded reply about everything that's gone on thus far, but suffice to say I'm really enjoying things. You've got a handle on the Russo-esque booking, but it's been done quite subtly so far and it's not mega-obvious which is nice indeed. I'm not too bothered about you ignoring a couple of 'in progress' angles, because most of the ones you've given up on weren't good to begin with, so huzzah for you. The format/style of the shows is very good also, you're playing to your strengths and covering the stuff you're not so good at well and all-around it's a solid start here. Well done, ***1/2 thus far and I'm sure there'll be more snowflakes heading your way once more happens. Jolly good.

So, now to predict, yes?

NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Abyss v Raven v Sting

No sense making Abyss merely a one-month thing, as he could be money with a decent reign with the belt, and going over Sting and Raven will cement him as a force to be reckoned with. Raven/Abyss, Raven/Sting and even Sting/Abyss could all be good top-tier programs, so you've got a lot to work with here and this'll be a good way to start off one of those angles if you decide to go that way.

TNA X Division Championship: Christopher Daniels v AJ Styles

Honestly, I can see Daniels retaining, but I don't think it's the way to go. These sort of feuds always work better when it's the face chasing the heel, and AJ going over here will give him the bragging rights and the momentum, leading Daniels to chase in order to get his title back. Daniels actually gains here from losing, so good for him.

NWA World Tag team Championships: LAX v AMW v Team 3D v The Briscoes

Pushing the Briscoes this hard, this fast is foolish and even Russo would know that. Team 3D are yawn-tastic at this point in time and something between them and LAX would be trite. With Senshi coming in, unless you're thinking of going the predictable 'Freebird Rule' route here, LAX need to drop the belts so Hernandez can be moved outta the equation, and thus somebody needs the win here. AMW are pretty much your cookie-cutter babyface champions, so I say put it on them for now and off we go.

Rhino v Kurt Angle

It's far too soon for Kurt to take a loss like this on PPV. Rhino to look badass, but Kurt to get the win and keep his momentum rolling.

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

It's a part of my religion that I never vote against Christian. Not ever. Even if I think he's going to lose, which in all honesty he probably will here. I'll forego the contest point in the hope that you do give him the nod, because, y'know, he's awesome. Pretty please?

Jim Cornette v Konnan

Ahem. Konnan beats Cornette so, even though LAX drop the straps, they're allowed to remain in TNA. Move along, nothing to see here.

Robert Roode v X

Because it's a badass gimmick, very Russo-esque, and it doesn't make sense to job him out now.

Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal v Paparazzi Productions

Lethal and Sonjay are TNA's resident job-boys, neither of them have remotely interesting characters at this point and IRL they're only made watchable by being in skits with Nash. Seeing as we're not here yet, they take the loss to two guys who are actually interesting.

The New Movement v X

Put 'em over, the mystery opponents should be somebody good so it's a big deal, and they look strong so that they're worthwhile backing for Raven in the future.

Bonus Questions

Who will be Robert Roode's Opponent? Bah, I dunno. Fuck it, Petey Williams, why not?

How many titles will change hands? 2 - X Division and Tag Team

Who will be pinned in the Main Event? Sting, just because he needs to hurry up and die. Oh, and also because Raven/Abyss is the better feud and if Raven takes the fall, he loses a lot of leverage as far as getting a rematch is concerned.

Edited January 1, 2007 by Sephiroth Clone

[probablyoliver]

OOC: It's been over a month, but TNA: The Russo Years...? is finally back, and Turning Point is finally here. I apologise for the wait; you won't have to wait this long for something for a long time. Anyway; enjoy, I've actually enjoyed writing it this past week; and on a whole I'm pretty damn happy with it.

Enjoy. =]

-

Total Non-Stop Action presents...

TURNING POINT 2006

Sunday, Week 3, December 2006

Match One

The New Movement v Shark Boy, Norman Smiley & Eric Young

Kicking off Turning Point was the 6-way between Raven's 'New Movement' and a triple threat of wrestlers who hadn't really been seen or heard from for weeks, so no prizes for guessing the result here! As they were welcomed by Jeremy Borash, The New Movement were announced with no names; just introduced as the unit of "the New Movement". All three members of the face team managed to get good responses, especially Eric Young who got some rather amusing chants of 'Where Have You Been?!' from the crowd...

The match itself was thankfully short, as the men involved just didn't seem to mesh very well at all, which was a damn shame considering some of the talent involved; especially the comedic talents of the face team. The New Movement made light work of Smiley and Young, hitting them both with a few nice triple team manoeuvres, including a beautiful moonsault from Kazarian into a raised Young. However, Shark Boy was able to get the crowd firmly behind him; out-witting all three members of The New Movement with a couple of nice flips, but was quickly put away by TAFKA Bentley who hit a beautiful Super Kick on the masked wrestler; almost ripping his head clean off. Following this little moment of glory; the faces were unable to get any momentum at all, and were just put away one by one in a showcase of spots from The New Movement; the end came soon after with Kazarian pinning Shark Boy with a German Suplex, following a Superkick from TAFKA Bentley.

Instead of celebrating their first victory as a team under the New Movement moniker, the three followers of Raven stood in triangle formation, just starring into space. After a moments silence, the three men bowed to each other and climbed out of the ring, exiting the arena through three different points in the crowd in a very, very bizarre celebration.

Result: The New Movement (Jonathon, Matthew & Kazarian) d. Shark Boy, Norman Smiley & Eric Young [C+] [4.55]

The action cuts backstage, with TNA Director of Authority; Jim Cornette in his office, wearing black and gold trim boxing shorts and a tank-top. Cornette stands with the Briscoe Brothers, who appear to be helping him train, giving him pointers and helping him tape up his fists. Despite the help from one of the top teams in the country though, Cornette doesn't look fit to fight at all. His gut shows under the tank-top, and his normally sinister smirk replaced by a much less sinister look of fear of fighting the leader of the LAX. Konnan. As Cornette prepares, in bursts former NWA World Heavyweight Champion; Christian Cage, who looks a lot more prepared for his fight later on against Samoa Joe. Cage looks a little perplexed at the image of an old, warn down Jim Cornette standing in front of him ready to fight, but doesn't let it stop him from opening his mouth. Cage gets the small talk out of the way quickly, acknowledging Cornette's attire for the night and commenting about how the DOA looks like a "white George Forman", to the obvious dismay of the Director of Authority. Cage says he's here to vent about Samoa Joe, saying he's actually genuinely scared about wrestling "Pillsbury" later tonight, because he was "terrifying in Ghostbusters!". Cage asks Cornette if everything was set, regarding what they had discussed earlier on; to which Cornette replied in the affirmative, before warning Christian, saying that if he went thru with everything he'd likely just piss off Joe. Cornette continued, saying Joe was rightfully feared throughout TNA; and it took more than just a man to derail him. After a moments silence, Cage laughed it off, calling Cornette a geek, before leaving Cornette and the Briscoe’s to continue training.

Back at ringside, and Robert Roode was standing centre of the ring with Miss Tracey Brooks; Roode's image was continuing to change; this time with new ring-wear that made him look instantly more suave than he had done before. Roode said he was the future of the wrestling industry; not just TNA, and that it was a "travesty" to see him on the bottom end of a PPV, and not Main Eventing. Roode said he'd be watching the NWA World Title match closely, because who ever won would be in for a "Roode Awakening in 2007", when Roode was coming full steam ahead for whoever held the most prestigious belt in the world today. Roode said he was ready for his challenger, whoever that may be; which brought out Roodes's former Team Canada stable partner; Petey Williams. As Williams slid into the ring, Roode pounced, and the match begun...

Match Two

Robert Roode v Petey Williams

The match itself was pretty good; with both men getting some decent offence in; however, the crowd seemed entirely uninterested, and it really came off bad on TV. Roode was able to get the upper hand straight away, pouncing on Petey the second he made his way into the six sided ring; Roode was able to keep this momentum for over a minute, tossing Petey from one side of the six sided ring to the other, stopping momentarily to hit some hard chops on Petey in each corner. However, Petey was able to counter one chop into a hammerlock, before attempting a German Suplex; but the heelish ways of Roode prevailed as he mule kicked Petey, dropping him to the floor and covering for a 2-count. Roode continued on his offensive, hitting a few short arm clotheslines on Petey, before hitting a nice Spinning Neckbreaker and posing for the fans; who still weren't fully involved. This little show of arrogance proved to be a mistake as Petey got to his feet, spun Roode round and hit a nice Hurracanrana. Petey pinned Roode, getting a two count before being dragged out of the ring by Miss Brooks. Petey didn't take too kindly to this, and stalked the beautiful Brooks at ringside. However, Roode had recovered and had come to protect his manager, attempting a Northern Lariat on Petey, but the Canadian Destroyed managed to foresee it, ducking and forcing Roode's arm hard against the steel ringpost. Petey rolled Roode into the ring, before climbing up onto the turnbuckle, waiting for Roode to get to his feet, but as soon as Roode was on his feet; Miss Brooks jumped onto the apron and shoved Petey off the top rope; sending him flying into a nasty Lariat from Roode.

After a failed pinfall attempt; Roode started to get annoyed, arguing with the ref and trying to convince him to count faster. In this time though, Petey got to his feet and spun Roode around for the second time in the match, Petey called for an AmeriCanadian Destroyer, but it was reversed into a beautiful spinebuster which was heard throughout the arena, finally generating some crowd interest. However, Roode didn't take the opportunity to capitalise, and instead just lifted Petey up, hoisting him onto his shoulders, before crashing the former X-Division Champion down with a vicious Powerbomb. Again, Roode didn't cover, and instead pulled Brooks up to the apron, where they shared a quick kiss. Roode then finally pinned Petey; who kicked out, just nanoseconds before the count of three. Roode looked on dumbfounded at Petey's will to survive, before pinning him again, this time hooking a leg - but once more Petey kicked out at two! Roode, now completely pissed off started to argue with the ref, before picking up Petey and aiming to hit the Northern Lariat for a second time, but Petey ducked just in time, before setting up and hitting a picture perfect Canadian Destroyer on Roode; taking no time out to pin him and get a quick three-count, and winning the match!!

Petey jumped to his feet, celebrating his victory before quickly rolling out of the ring, both arms in the air in victory pose. Roode just looked on in disbelief at his loss to the smaller Petey, but didn't let it stop him from getting to his feet and grabbing a microphone...

Result: Petey Williams defeated Robert Roode by pinfall [C+] [6:30]

With microphone in hand; Robert Roode announced that Petey's win was a fluke, and that he would never be able to win like that again. Roode requested a rematch, not for next month, not for impact, but for right now. Roode said he was in control the whole match, and that Petey's win was nothing but pure-luck. Roode wanted a chance to prove that he was the better man, and he wanted to do it now; and to the delight of the now interested audience, Petey Williams came straight back down to the ring to fight once more!

Match Two and a Half

Robert Roode v Petey Williams

Petey ran straight back down to the ring, and a grapple broke out between him and Roode. Petey got the upperhand, hitting Roode with a couple nice elbows, before kicking him in the gut and going for a second Canadian Destroyer, but Miss Brooks had a different idea as she slid into the ring with a steel chair in hand, which she used with great force, cracking it over the back of Petey Williams, forcing the referee to call a very early disqualification in the rematch. Petey had won again, but this time it wasn't a victory to write home about.

Roode and Brooks continued their assault of Petey, with Brooks slapping him hard across the face before Roode hit a Stunner centre of the ring. Roode and Brooks raised each others arm in victory before leaving the fallen Williams in the ring and exiting the ring and up the Impact Zone ramp.

Result: Petey Williams defeated Robert Roode by disqualification [C+] [0:22]

Following Roode's violent manhandling of Petey Williams; Turning Point goes backstage with the three members of the Paparazzi Productions; Alex Shelley, Austin Starr, and of course; Kevin Nash. The three men discuss Starr and Shelley's opponents for tonight; X-Division Superstars; Sonjay Dutt and Jay Lethal. Nash begins by warning the two of Dutt's recent addiction to "anabolic", saying he's now "strong, not unlike a bear, or Scott Hall", and that he weighs about 300lbs, the equivalent of eight of what he was just two weeks ago. Shelley asks about possible strategies, which sets Nash off on a trip down memory lane; where he recalls "wrestling in 'Nam with Bob Backlund, Aldo Montoya, Justin Credible and Peter Polaco". Starr questions this, saying that they're all one and the same, prompting utter confusion from Shelley, who informs Starr that "Montoya was Portuguese, jackass. That's in Europe! Europe!" An awkward silence falls over the three; and Nash struggles to break it "so... uh... wrestling, yeah?" Starr and Shelley; both glad the silence is over agree enthusiastically before jumping to their feet and leaving to wrestle their match.

Match Three

The Paparazzi v Sonjay Dutt & Jay Lethal

First out are Dutt and Lethal, once huge X-Division prospects for TNA, but now lost in the shuffle of midcard hell. Despite this, they get a pretty positive reaction from the crowd, who know that although not the most charismatic, you don't get much more athletic then Dutt and Lethal. As they reach the ring, out come the two core members of Paparazzi Productions; Alex Shelley and Austin Starr. The two men make their way to the ring, setting up a camera at ringside, before climbing into the ring to start the match.

Lethal and Starr start off with some very quick chain wrestling, exchanging Irish whips and leaping over each other with great ease; however, this was stopped after around 40 seconds when Lethal dropped to the floor following a whip of Starr. Starr stopped mid-run, and just jumped on the back of Lethal in an entirely heelish move. Starr kept the advantage for a while, hitting a few of his trademark elbow drops before allowing Lethal to crawl towards his corner, only to his a running dropkick on Dutt, knocking him off the apron and averting the tag. Starr continued this momentum with a few arm drags, before Suplexing Lethal and tagging in Shelley. Shelley continued the assault with a few double knee drops before lifting up Lethal and attempting his Total Non-Stop Alex facebuster, but it was countered into a sunset flip by Lethal, who got a quick two count, before Shelley rolled out and hit a dropkick on the seated Lethal, knocking him onto his back. Shelley then took the time to taunt the crowd, then taunt Lethal before emptying his nose all over Lethal's face, in a beautiful display of disrespect. Lethal didn't let this faze him though, and the young superstar jumped to his feet with a hard open-palm slap across the face of Alex Shelley. This didn't impress Shelley who went to lay a couple right hands on Lethal, but they were all caught and met with return punches. Shelley, now visibly annoyed then initiated a grapple with Lethal, who's speed and agility prevailed as he spun round and swept Shelley off his feet, before hitting a standing Senton and tagging in Sonjay Dutt.

Dutt dived straight to the top rope, coming off with a brilliant moonsault, which was able to get a two-count on Shelley. The Original Playa from the Himalayas seemed to have fun with Shelley for the next couple minutes, running rings around the more technical based wrestler with lots of twists and turns around the torso of Shelley, before jumping onto his shoulders and hitting a extremely violent Reverse Hurracanrana, Dutt then hit a jumping Springboard Dropkick on the illegal Austin Starr; showing shades of Chris Jericho, before once again focussing on Shelley with another quick cover which only got a one-count. Shelley got to his feet and stopped Dutt from twirling around him again with a stiff clothesline, before locking in a vicious looking Boston Crab that had Sonjay's feet almost touch his shoulders! This was broken up by Lethal, who hit a nice dropkick onto Shelley, and breaking the hold. Lethal wasn't able to showcase anything else as he was quickly taken down and out of the ring by Austin Starr. Shelley was soon also out of the ring, and three of the four competitors brawled outside, until Sonjay Dutt came shooting out of the ring with a no hands moonsault over the top rope and into the other three, much to the extreme delight of the crowd! Dutt and Starr were first to their feet, and they brawled back into the ring, with Dutt going for a Spinning DDT, but Starr stopped him in his tracks and stamped on his foot, allowing for Starr to get the advantage. Starr took little time in hitting a Shin-Breaker on Dutt, before lifting him up and hitting a brutal Brainbuster. Lethal, meanwhile, tried to stop Starr from going for his patented 450 Splash, but was stopped by Shelley who hit a Shellshock on Lethal before locking in the Border City Stretch at the same time as Starr hit the 450, for a dual pin/submission victory; despite Shelley and Dutt being the legal men!

The Paparazzi celebrated their victory with Shelley and Starr raising each others arms, and stepping out of the ring. Both men then walked straight up to Alex Shelley's camera, Shelley admitted he was a "cocky, arrogant bitch" but then commented "with that show of skill, I’ve ever right to be!" Starr followed up with a cocky laugh as Shelley collected the camera together and the two exited up the Impact Zone ramp.

Result: The Paparazzi defeated Sonjay Dutt and Jay Lethal with a dual pin / submission combo [b-] [8:01]

Match Four

No DQ Strap Match

Konnan v Jim Cornette

Next up was a match that was guaranteed to be violent, and possibly even violently bad, as an old, broken down, nothing-more-than-a-manager took on an old, broken down, nothing more than a manager with TNAs Director of Authority Jim Cornette took on the leader of the LAX; Konnan. Konnan was out first, alone. He walked down to the ring King Kong like, cracking his neck and punching at his bare chest. Out next was Cornette, accompanied by the two men who had been training him earlier; The Briscoe Brothers. Seeing this, Konnan shook his head and demanded a microphone. When his demand was fulfilled, Konnan told Cornette to get rid of the boys, because although this was going to be a bare-knuckled fight, it was going to be a fair fight too. He wanted to taste Cornette's blood, and didn't want anyone getting in the way. No Briscoe’s, no LAX, nobody but Corny and Konnan. Cornette took a moment to reply, but finally did, dismissing the Briscoe’s and walking down the ramp and climbing into the ring. Referee Earl Hebner strapped the two together, but Konnan seemed dissatisfied, he didn't want the straps round the wrists, but round the necks of him and Cornette. Hebner allowed for the change, and as the two men stood opposite each other, straps around their necks, it looked as though two snarling dogs were about to do battle.

From the word 'go' the match was excessively violent, and within seconds Konnan had ripped open a can of whoop-ass on Cornette, dragging at the strap, choking him and beating the Director of Authority senseless with some extremely vicious rights and lefts. Cornette was opened up with a nasty headbutt that even made Konnan recoil in grogginess, but the leader of the LAX wasn't done there, as he threw Cornette from corner to corner, before charging at him with splash’s and clotheslines. Konnan then lifted Cornette up and dumped him out of the ring, only to pull back on the strap as if it were a noose, lifting Cornette's feet off the ground. Konnan then climbed out of the ring himself, before lifting up Cornette again and crutching him on the guard rail. Konnan, still in control, proceeded to lift Cornette off the railing, then slide him into the ring, and slide him out again so they were separated by a metal ringpost. Konnan attempted to drag Cornette head-first into the post, but the DOA desperately tugged at the strap with all his strength. With one last tug, Konnan was sent into the ring post, opening up the Mexican Superstar. Cornette then rolled into the ring and out again, stopping the separation. After a few stomps from the DOA; Konnan got back to his feet and slapped Cornette hard across the mouth, knocking the tennis-racket wielding manager to the floor. Konnan then dragged Cornette into the ring, before climbing to the top rope; but Cornette managed to tug at the strap, bring Konnan straight back to the floor and onto his face. Cornette hit a standing double stamp on the lower-back of Konnan, causing the Mexican superstar to scream in agony. Cornette tried to cover Konnan, but Konnan reversed it, hit a snapmare on Cornette and delivered an extremely stiff kick to the back of the managerial legend. Konnan picked up Cornette, raised him high above his head and hit a beautiful Cross Powerbomb, before pinning Cornette and getting the easy three-count and victory in a surprisingly good squash.

Instead of a regular celebration, Konnan removed the strap from his neck, before removing it from the KO'ed Cornette. Konnan then whipped Cornette, bringing him straight back to life, squealing like a pig. Konnan then whipped Cornette a second and third time, before kicking him out of the ring, forcing Cornette to crawl up the Impact ramp. Konnan then raised his arms in victory, and the crowd ate it up, actually cheering for the LAX super-heel! Konnan, noticing the cheers then cussed down the crowd before leaving the ring and returning backstage.

Result: Konnan defeated Jim Cornette by pinfall [3:35] [C]

C

Match Four

NWA Tag Team Titles

Gauntlet Match

Latin American eXchange =TT= v America's Most Wanted v The Briscoe Brothers v Team 3D

After a few video packages pertaining to next month's 'Final Resolution' PPV; Turning Point was back in the ring for the next match; and the first title match of the evening, as the NWA Tag Team Titles were on the line with LAX defending them in a Gauntlet style match. First out were LAX; Homicide and Hernandez, with no sign of Konnan. The two made their way to the ring silently, as their first opponents; America's Most Wanted - Chris Harris and James Storm; the most successful team in TNA history made their way to the ring, but couldn't even get to the ring before the match started; as they were ambushed by LAX!

Homicide and Hernandez brought the fight to AMW with a few stiff punches outside the ring; with both Harris and Storm being sent into opposite sides of the guard rail; Homicide was able to his a nasty Lariat on Harris early on, as Hernandez knocked Storm about with some stiff shots before rolling him into the ring and pinning him; only to have the "Cowboy" kick out at two. 'Cide continued his assault on Harris outside of the ring, blocking an attempt to have his head slammed into the ringpost, only to slam Harris' head into instead. The two continued to brawl, with Harris getting a short burst of momentum, only to have the brakes slammed on with a Discus Elbow to the face. Homicide jumped onto the apron and got the quick tag in; where he unleashed a fury of kicks on Storm. 'Cide finished off with a Bridging Exploder Suplex; but was only able to get a two count. 'Cide tagged in Hernandez; who made his way to Storm, trying to lift him; only to get caught off guard with a Small Package from Storm for a quick two count. Storm used this momentum to tag in Chris Harris; who attacked Hernandez with a spear; followed by at attempted Sharpshooter, but 'Cide blindsided and took Storm down; before being sent out of the ring by the referee. Harris and Hernandez continued fighting, with Hernandez getting the upperhand, knocking Harris down with a stiff clothesline, before tagging in 'Cide, and distracting the ref whilst 'Cide pulled out a chain and clocked both Storm and Harris with it. 'Cide got rid of the chain and quickly pinned Harris; getting the three count in an underhand manner.

Result: LAX defeated America's Most Wanted by cheating [3.25]

Next out were the Briscoe Brothers; Jay Briscoe and Mark Briscoe, who wasted little time in attacking both Homicide and Hernandez and gaining a quick upperhand. Jay was able to put Hernandez down with a Sitout Suplex; whilst Mark caught Homicide with a Fisherman Suplex; but neither man was able to gain a pinfall. Jay left the ring, leaving it down to Mark and 'Cide; who exchanged blows with Homicide gaining momentum and attempting his brutal Gringo Killah; but Mark was able to use his agility to roll out of it, knock Homicide down with an Ace Crusher before jumping to the top rope and attempting a Moonsault. 'Cide moved and Mark was able to rotate the full 360 degrees back onto his feet; but was met with a vicious Lariat from Homicide; almost decapitating him. Homicide rolled to the other side of the ring and tagged in Hernandez, who lifted Mark up by the throat and hit a nasty CrackerJack on Mark. Hernandez attempted a pin, but was thrown off by Jay who springboarded off Hernandez with a Double Stomp, shooting into Homicide with a Dropkick; knocking him off the apron. Hernandez wasn't too pleased with this; and showed his frustration by hitting a brutal Powerbomb on Jay Briscoe. Hernandez then proceeded to lift Mark up, but was met with a desperation Enziguiri; sending him to the floor. Mark pinned; but only got a two, as 'Cide got back to his feet and threw the chain he'd used against AMW into the ring for Hernandez; but referee Andrew Thomas had different ideas; confiscating the chain and arguing with Hernandez; allowing Homicide to climb into the ring with a second chain; clocking it round the head of Mark Briscoe before leaving the ring; Hernandez then dropped to his knees and pinned for the easy three count; once again; thanks only to cheating.

Result: LAX defeated The Briscoe Brothers [7.11]

LAX would have a hard time cheating against the third and final team though, as Team 3D came down the ramp with table in hand; and it was time for one of the most experienced underhand teams to come face to face with the NWA Tag Team Champions! Homicide ran out to attempt a brawl with Brother Ray and Devon, but was just knocked straight to the floor by the table. Team 3D set the table up, and began to brawl with Hernandez; who was Flapjacked by Devon and dropped down, thru the table with a brutal 3D by Brother Ray, much to the delight of the crowd. Homicide tried his hardest to fight the two tag veterans, but was getting nowhere; just being constantly knocked down to the floor with punches from both Ray and Devon; before being finished off with a Full Nelson Bomb from Brother Ray; this prompted Ray to order Devon to "Get the Tables!", much to the further delight of the fans; who had no trouble watching Devon leave the ring and pull a second table from out of the ring. Devon set the table up outside the ring, as Ray dragged Homicide out; only to have the NWA Tag Team Champion fight back with a few jabs to the gut; followed by an Ace Cutter in the ring. 'Cide then focused on Devon, hitting a no hands Suicide Dive thru the middle rope and into Devon. 'Cide then helped Hernandez up, and the two took their anger out on Devon with an Assisted Powerbomb from Hernandez thru the table. The two members of LAX then climbed into the ring, and focused on Brother Ray; with Hernandez assisting Homicide in hitting the larger Brother Ray with a Piledriver in the middle of the ring. Homicide covered and got the three-count, and it was all over; LAX had retained!

Result: LAX defeated Team 3D [10.50] [C+]

Following the chaos and carnage of the tag title match; "The War Machine" Rhino was seen backstage with Jeremy Borash. Borash ran down Kurt Angle's accomplishments; saying he was an Olympic Gold Medallist and a former multi-time World Champion; before saying that Angle really isn't a man "you can just fight and expect to win." Borash asks how Rhino's prepared for the fight; sending Rhino on a tangent; saying he should be asking Kurt how he's prepared; because Rhino's a "dangerous man with a dangerous mind." Rhino said Kurt's in no state to wrestle; and he proved that two weeks ago when he almost snapped his neck in two after putting him thru a table on impact! Rhino said he's never been more ready for a fight; and he can't wait to prove Kurt's nothing but an old man who should have quit years ago. When asked if it'll be a fair fight; Rhino said he'll have no trouble doing what he did on impact again; and that Borash should prepare for a bloody fight; because he wants to rip Kurt's head from his shoulders. The War Machine finished by asking Kurt if he was prepared; not just for Rhino, but for the gore... Gore... GORE!

Match Six

Rhino v Kurt Angle

As the bell rang, both men circled each other, neither wanting to make the first move. Both men were smart, Rhino knew that Angle was by far the superior mat wrestler, whilst Angle knew that Rhino would out-power him any day of the week. After another few seconds of circling, both men pounced, launching into a grapple that Kurt had no trouble winning, spinning Rhino into a Hammerlock before hitting a Belly to Back Suplex onto the floor, and circling Rhino, still holding onto the Hammerlock. Kurt jumped to his feet after this show of technical savvy, and Rhino soon followed, climbing to his feet and initiating a second grapple, this time won by the man beast who was able to whip Angle into the turnbuckle and charge at him with a splash, but the Olympic Gold Medallist was able to move out of the way, allowing him to roll Rhino up with a school-boy pin; placing his feet on the ropes for extra leverage. Referee Rudy Charles refused to count, seeing Angle's illegal pin, and forced both men up. The two entered a third grapple, with Rhino once again winning, this time with a scoop slam and elbow drop onto the chest of Angle, only getting a one count. Rhino went for a second elbow, but Kurt rolled out of the of the way and jumped to his feet, waiting for Rhino before locking in to attempt a German Suplex; but the War Machine scouted Angle's move and in turn twisted round and out, locking a Hammerlock on Angle in the process; Angle further countered, hitting a snapmare on Rhino and locking in a Sleeper Hold.

With the Sleeper tightly locked in, Rhino struggled to climb to his feet, but did so with Kurt still attached to his back. Angle dropped down, still with the Sleeper in place, only to drop down to the floor again; applying a Rear Naked Choke on the former NWA Champion. Rhino once again battled to get to his feet, Angle still perched on his back, only to be pulled down a third time, still in the rear naked choke. Referee Rudy Charles lifted Rhino's arm, dropping it and calling for one, before doing so again and calling for two. On the third time though, Rhino was able to keep his arm up to fight once more. Rhino once more got to his feet, before backing into the turnbuckle to loosen Angle's grip. A second back into the turnbuckles and Rhino was free from Angle's hold. Rhino spun round, hitting Angle with a few strong right hands, before hitting a few shoulder thrusts into the corner and lifting Angle up for a Military press; but the Olympic Gold Medallist slipped away and attempted an Olympic Slam, only for Rhino to slip out himself and spin Angle round, hoisting him up and attempting a Powerbomb to the outside of the ring, but Angle reversed this and was able to hit a faux-Hurracanrana, dumping both men over the top rope.

The brawl continued outside, with the two exchanging rights, with Rhino getting the upperhand and whipping Angle shoulder first into the steel steps, before searching under the ring and pulling out a table; sliding it into the ring before attempting to lift Angle to his feet; the former WWE star was able to counter though, hitting a few groggy European Uppercuts before slamming Rhino's head into the ring apron and rolling the One Man War Machine into the ring. Kurt also climbed into the ring, and still clutching at his shoulder; set up the table in the corner. Meanwhile Rhino prepared to Gore Angle through wood, and as Angle turned round; Rhino charged, being able to just slam on the brakes as Angle slipped away outside the ring. Rhino climbed out the ring himself, and once again the two men exchanged blows, with Rhino getting the upperhand and attempting a Piledriver on the outside, but Angle was able to counter; hitting a Back Body Drop on Rhino and kicking him sternly in the ribs. Angle lifted up Rhino, who battled back with a few blows to the gut, before attempting a second Piledriver, but Angle dropped to his knees and hit a nasty low-blow on Rhino, putting a stop to his attempt. Angle threw Rhino back into the ring, before climbing in covering for a two count. Angle covered again, this time only getting a one, before lifting Rhino up and attempting a German Suplex; Rhino reversed, attempting his own German, but Angle was able to counter this; before hitting a beautiful Release German Suplex; right through the table set up in the corner. The crowd erupted with "Holy Shit!" chants as both men lay on the canvas, broken and battered from the match. Rudy Charles began his ten-count for a double knockout, reaching 'six' before Angle mustered up enough energy to pull Rhino out of the debris and attempt a pinfall.

1...2... but Rhino's foot somehow managed to find the bottom rope. But Kurt doesn't let it anger him, and shows his professionalism by just dragging Rhino further into the ring to attempt the pinfall again; but this time; Rhino somehow finds the desperate energy to kick out at two. Angle gets to his feet and yells at Rudy Charles for counting slow, giving Rhino enough time to get to one knee, but Kurt has it scouted, and turns round just to shove Rhino back to the floor with the bottom of his boot. This just angers the Man Beast, who quickly climbs to his feet, turns Kurt around and in an extremely desperate move, picks him up just to hit a beautiful Piledriver; again putting both men on the floor. Rudy Charles gets to 'seven', and the two men are both groggily on their feet, Rhino hits a few strong rights, before throwing Kurt into the corner and dropping to a Three-Point-Stance for the Gore! Rhino charges, but Kurt dives out of the way, and Rhino's just able to stop; but Kurt hits the Olympic Slam, before locking in his patented Ankle Lock. Rhino looks fit to tap when he just manages to crawl to the ropes, but Kurt brings him straight back to the centre of the ring, before dropping to the floor and Grapevining the move; and Rhino had no escape but to tap out, giving Kurt the submission victory.

Result: Kurt Angle defeated 'The War Machine' Rhino by submission [12:34] [A]

Following his victory, Kurt Angle jumped to his feet, spinning round arms-akimbo to celebrate his victory as Rhino lay clutching at his ankle. Angle looked fit to leave ringside and allow Rhino to fight another day, but decided against it, coming back just to lock on the Ankle Lock once more on the fallen Rhino, prompting TNA officials and agents to run to the ring to stop the Olympic Gold Medallist, but Kurt had other plans, stopping the hold just to deliver a few officials Belly-to-Belly Suplexs, before hitting one referee with an Olympic Slam. As the rest of the officials backed off, rather than trying their luck with the former Olympian, Kurt just locked the Ankle Lock back in and continued to punish Rhino; this prompted Samoa Joe to come charging down the Impact Zone; sliding into the ring and forcing Angle to break the hold and focus his full attention on the Samoan Submission Machine. The two brawled in the ring as the rest of the officials helped Rhino limp up the ramp and backstage. Joe got the upperhand with a flurry of chops, kicks and jabs, ending with an Enziguiri to the temple of Kurt. Joe locked in his Coquina Clutch to the already worn-out Angle, but it was quickly broken up by Christian Cage, who came running down to the ring to attack Joe and protect Kurt. Joe and Cage stared each other down, as referee Mark Johnson came running down the ring, calling for the bell to be rung and the next match to begin; with both competitors in the ring!

Match Seven

Christian Cage v Samoa Joe

Kurt Angle rolled out of the ring as the match started, with Joe and Cage swapping blows, but just like had happened with Angle moments ago; Joe got the upperhand, and was able to hit his trademark flurry of chops and jabs, before attempting a similar Enziguiri to the one he had used on Kurt Angle. But Cage, fresh and fighting fit was able to duck Joe's boot sending the 290lber to the floor, where Christian wasted no time, pouncing on Joe's back and locking in a weak sleeper hold, that Joe quickly shrugged off, jumping to his feet and flinging Cage off his back and onto the floor, before spinning round and booting Cage in the small of the back. Joe just shrugs it off and laughs with the audience as Cage clumsily climbs to his feet. Cage, seeing Joe not taking the match seriously dives at the Samoan wrestler, only to be thrown in a Hammerlock and given a huge chop down the back, making Cage almost jump out of his skin and squeal. Joe once again laughed, this time really pissing off Cage, who dived at Joe again, locking in a Headlock, but quickly being dropped with a Back Drop. Joe then further mocked Cage, pulling a '5 Second Pose', enraging Cage even more; who dived at Joe with a spear, knocking him into the turnbuckle and launching a flurry of punches on him, Joe went for a chop to reverse the momentum, but Christian ducked it, perched himself on the turnbuckle and attempted a Tornado DDT. Joe first shrugged it off, but Christian was able to rotate a full 360, allowing for the momentum to drop Joe and hit a DDT. Christian immediately covered but was thrown off after a quick one count. Cage locked up with Joe, but the Samoan once again proved his strength, delivering a knee to the sternum of Cage before whipping him into the ropes. Cage ducked a jab attempt, and attempted a Reverse DDT; but Joe reversed it and attempted a second Irish Whip, which was in turn countered, sending Joe into the ropes, where he had his foot grabbed by the recovering Kurt Angle who was still at ringside.

Referee Mark Johnson didn't look too happy with Angle's interference, and argued with the Olympian, giving Christian the opportunity to drop down to his knees and low blow Samoa Joe, giving the entire momentum to the former NWA World Champion. Cage hit a few stomps on Joe, as the Samoan Submission Machine slowly rose to his feet; only to have Christian knock him straight down again with a Dropkick to Joe's face. Cage continued his assault on Joe with a few knee drops, before hitting Joe square in the face with a beautiful boot, sending Joe onto his back. Cage covered, but Joe once again proved his brute strength, powering out at two and getting to his feet. Joe hit a few open palm slaps on Christian, until Cage ducked one and Irish Whipped Joe into the ropes, where he was once again distracted by Kurt Angle, tugging at his leg; this time Joe turned round to face Angle, allowing for Cage to sneak in and hit an Unprettier on Joe. Christian quickly covered, but referee Mark Johnson refused to count the pin with Kurt at ringside; Cage and Angle argued with Johnson about this decision, with Angle finally leaving up the ramp, still keeping his eye on the ring; but when he turned round; Angle was met with an extremely pissed off looking Rhino! The War Machine chased Angle back down the ramp, through the ring and out again, before chasing him out through the audience to the delight of the capacity crowd! In all the confusion, Cage attempted another pin on Joe; but just couldn't keep the Samoan down, who was quickly back to his feet and fighting once more.

Joe and Cage exchange blows, but once again; it was the former X-Division Champion's brute strength that proved best; hitting Cage with some nasty looking knee-lifts, only to have Cage rake the eyes of Joe, and once again get the upperhand! Cage hit a Reverse DDT, before dropping to his knees and attempting to pin Joe again, but it still wasn't going to happen and Joe just powered out once more. Back on his feet, and Joe regained some momentum, hitting a few chops, before hitting a beautiful Enziguiri to Cage, who averted a pin by rolling out of the ring. Joe taunted, and got up a 'Joe! Joe! Joe!' chant as he waited for Cage to climb to his feet; and as he did, Joe rebounded from the ropes and launched himself out with a picture perfect Suicide Dive into Cage Joe quickly climbed to his feet; followed slowly by Cage; Joe saw an opportunity and continued to assault Cage with slaps and chops, before smashing him head first into the steel steps and placing him on a chair near to the audience. The crowd knew exactly what was coming, and began an "Olé" chant as Joe tuned up the band. Joe threw himself towards Christian, who was able to just move, sending Joe crotched into the steel railings. Christian got to his feet, and hit Joe with a few jabs, before headlocking him and dropping him from the railing onto the floor with a nasty Spiked DDT. Christian then proceeded to lift Joe into the seat, and set up for his own Olé kick, which the crowd did not enjoy one bit. But just as Cage was about to boot Joe; he stopped and instead just spat on the Samoan Submission Machine; sending Joe into a spasm of anger, hitting Cage with a mass flurry of chops and slaps, before stepping back and charging Cage with a monstrous Lariat that almost ripped Cage's head clean off.

Joe pulled Christian up, rolling him in the ring before climbing in himself and attempting a pinfall; but Cage was just able to kick out at two. Joe raised Cage to his feet, before Irish Whipping him and attempting a chop, but Cage ducked and rebounded off the ropes, only to feel the sting of a Snap Powerslam from Joe, who pinned but deliberately pulled out at two to lock in a Crucifix Armbar. Cage was able to wiggle his way to the ropes, only to be raised again and hit with a vicious Powerbomb; Joe pinned, but once again pulled out at two, this time to lock in a High Angled Boston Crab that saw Cage come within seconds of tapping before Joe released the hold. Joe wastes no time, throwing Christian to his feet and slamming him straight into the turnbuckle, before charging him with a splash, only to eat turnbuckle as Cage slips out of the way to try and catch a breather, but Joe has other ideas as he rebounds off the ropes and hits a beautiful diving dropkick into the back of Christian's head, sending him out the middle rope and back to the floor. Joe stalks, climbing out of the ring and waiting for Cage to get to his feet, only to knock him down to his knees with a stern kick to the back of the legs, before grabbing him round the neck and throwing him back onto the chair adjacent to the crowd. Joe squares up and hits a beautiful Olé kick which opens Christian up.

Joe climbs back into the ring, still mad as all hell from Christian's fake Olé kick earlier in the match. Seeing Cage having trouble getting to his feet; Joe leaves the ring again, and assists Cage; throwing him back into the ring with great ease. Joe climbs back in, and lifts Christian to his feet, the former NWA Heavyweight Champion tries his hardest to fight back, hitting Joe with a few weak jabs, only to be pushed back with a vicious chop that sends Cage into the turnbuckle, where he drops down to a seated position. Joe brushes his boot against Cage's face before rebounding into the ropes to attempt his Face Wash Kick, but Cage rolls out of the ring, and in a desperation move, drags Joe's legs, crutching him on the steel ring post in Joe's third low blow of the match! Cage climbs back into the ring and stomps on Joe a couple of times, before using the ropes as a means to jump up and slam his feet down hard into Joe's chest. Cage pulls Joe out and covers, but the Samoan is able to kick out at two. Cage lifts Joe up and attempts his second Unprettier, but Joe shoves Cage into the turnbuckle, spinning him around and lifting him up onto the top to attempt a Muscle Buster. Cage fights back with some jabs, but Joe shuts him up with another stern chop across his already red raw chest. Joe lifts Cage up for the Muscle Buster but is stopped in his tracks with a brutal Yakuza Kick from Tomko! Joe drops Christian and falls to the floor, as Tomko looks down at the steel toe capped boots on his feet. Referee Mark Johnson calls for the disqualification as Tomko stands above the fallen Joe...

Result: Samoa Joe defeated Christian Cage by disqualification [21:40] [b+]

Samoa Joe lays on the floor motionless, as his attacker; Tomko stands above him with a smirk on his face. Meanwhile; Christian Cage begins to climb, groggily to his feet, blood covering his face as he looks up at his Problem Solver; reunited after almost two years! Tomko lifts Joe up to a standing position; even though Joe is in no state to be standing as Christian climbs onto the top rope and hits a beautiful Reverse Tornado DDT on Joe, putting him down once more. Cage lifts Tomko's arm in victory; but stops as the look on his face changes from glee to ambition; Cage has an idea and he wants Tomko to help. Cage orders Tomko to get down and count as he stands above Joe and places his foot on his chest. Tomko counts quickly; One... Two... Three, and Cage looks even happier! Cage jumps to his feet, celebrating like he's just won the World Series as Tomko hoists Cage up onto his shoulders to celebrate Cage's 'pinfall' on Samoa Joe!

Following the Cage/Joe match, we go backstage where Raven sits, decked out in his white suit, white shirt, white tie combo; looking more like a preacher than the usual Raven. He is surrounded by three men in triangle formation around him; covered by huge red hoods and cloaks. Raven says he's proud of what the New Movement has accomplished tonight; not the match that his "droogs" won tonight; but what happened before Turning Point; the words that were said and the names that were thrown. Raven said that phase two of his masterplan was in full operation, and that by the end of tonight phase three would be ready to go. Raven said that tonight was not just about winning the NWA World Title, but bringing one of wrestling's biggest names to his knees. With this, Raven removed the hood of his first droog; TAFKA Bentley; who had his face painted like Sting circa 1990. Raven said tonight was not just about fulfilling destiny, but fulfilling prophecies; before removing the hood of the second droog; TAFKA Devine who had his face painted like Sting in his red and black days. Raven followed up by saying tonight was not just about the gold that would be around his waist come the end of the night, but also the blood that would drench his hands; and it was with this he removed the third and final hood; showing the third and final droog; TAFKA Kazarian in full current day Sting make-up. Raven smirked as the three droogs replaced their hoods; before standing up and turning to face Raven and chanting in their triangle formation; much like they had at the start of the night. Raven himself then stood up before lifting up a fourth red cloak and holding it out. Raven said the New Movement was coming to an end tonight; and that the full prophecy would be filled in 2007. Raven laughed as the cameras faded out.

Match Eight

TNA X-Division Championship

Christopher Daniels =X= v AJ Styles

It was time for the secondary Main Event; the latest match in the long running rivalry of AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels; the match had happened numerous times before, and both men had been able to pick up victories over the other; this wouldn't be the first time they contested over the X-Division Title either. But that didn't stop it from being one of the hottest matches on the card; and one that the crowd couldn't wait for. First out was the challenger; "The Phenomenal One" AJ Styles, the first TNA Triple Crown Champion, and a former Mr. TNA; his reaction was mixed; due to his recent heel turn. As he reached the ring, out came the current, reigning and defending X-Division Champion; "The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels. Daniels came down to the ring, the X-Division Title hung around his shoulder. Daniels climbed into the ring and began a stare down with AJ, with neither man moving for a few moments. Daniels outstretched a hand to his former tag team partner; but AJ refused and just looked on, his eyes transfixed on the X-Division Gold.

As the bell rang and the match started, the two tied up; and they showed exactly why they'd been booked together so many times with a great show of chain wrestling, with neither man being able to get the upperhand for the first three minutes of action! It started with an Irish Whip from Styles, only to have it reversed into a Hammerlock by Daniels, which in turn was reversed into a German Suplex, which saw Daniels able to flip 360 degrees and just continue the fight. Daniels hit a couple arm drags, but was caught off guard by a Hurracanrana attempt, which like the German Suplex, he just rolled out of; springboarded and came back with a missed Elbow; AJ went for a standing Moonsault, but Daniels rolled out the way; forcing Styles to fall face first on the mat; but Daniels still couldn't get the momentum, rebounding off the ropes and being met with a Drop Toe Hold from Styles, who jumped into a headlock, only for Daniels to make his way to his feet, Irish whip AJ into the ropes and attempt a Powerslam, only for AJ to Cartwheel out of it, Springboard and Moonsault over Daniels, attempting an Inverted DDT, only for Daniels to twist out and attempt a Enziguiri; but the Phenomenal One scouted it and ducked, before spinning Daniels round and hitting a Discus Elbow, and getting the upperhand for the first time in the match. AJ went for a quick cover, getting a one count before Daniels kicked out and got back to his feet. Further chain wrestling occurred, with Daniels actually managing to hit some forearms, before whipping AJ into the ropes and attempting a Sidewalk Slam; but AJ reversed it, flipping round backwards and pulling Daniels up for a Sidewalk Slam of his own, but Daniels was able to wiggle his way out, whip AJ once more and hit a dropkick sending AJ to the floor.

Daniels attempted a pinfall following the dropkick, but AJ was able to kip-up into a Hurracanrana, sending Daniels under the bottom rope and out of the ring. AJ scouted Daniels and rebounded off the ropes, coming back to hit a No Hands Plancha over the top rope and into Daniels, taking both men out onto the floor. AJ got to his feet first, and the fight resumed, with both men exchanging blows. Daniels jumped up to the apron, kicking back to push AJ away before hitting an Asai Moonsault on Styles, taking his challenger down onto the floor. Daniels jumped straight back to his feet, before climbing back into the ring and waiting for Styles; who used his agility to springboard and take Daniels by surprise with a Superman Elbow which got a quick one count. As both men got to their feet; Daniels whipped AJ again, this time pulling him up for a Death Valley Driver; but AJ had it scouted, dropped off the back and hit a lungblower on Daniels; this time covering for a two-count. AJ rebounded off the ropes and came back, hitting Daniels with a knee drop to the head, before rolling back into the ropes and coming straight back for a second one. AJ pinned Daniels again, once again only getting a two before Daniels reversed the momentum and got his own pin of AJ. AJ kicked out by reversing into his own pin again, this time not getting more than a one, following this pin, both men rolled out and to their feet where they came eye to eye for the first time since the start of the match.

Both men stopped momentarily in a stare-down, causing the crowd to begin a "This! Is! Awesome!" chant before the match could begin again. AJ went for a standing Lariat, but it was ducked by Daniels who responded with an STO, putting Styles down on the mat; and getting a cover for two. AJ kicked back up, and attacked Daniels with a short flurry of forearms, sending him into the corner, before hitting a couple of weak European Uppercuts and finishing off with a Flapjack Facebuster. Daniels fell to the floor as AJ hopped up onto the turnbuckle, and as Daniels got to his feet; AJ flew from the turnbuckle attempting a Double Axe Handle; but Daniels instead countered with a mid-air dropkick to AJ's ribs, sending AJ rolling out to the floor. Daniels waited for AJ to get up before hitting a Plancha over the top rope and onto his opponent, but AJ caught Daniels and hit a Fall Away Slam, sending him into the steel guard rail. AJ refused to slap hands with a few fans, instead just lifting Daniels up and sending him back into the ring. AJ got into a small confrontation with a fan before jumping onto the apron and springboarding, but the fan distraction gave Daniels time to recover and hit another mid-air Dropkick, this time sending AJ straight out of the ring and back-first into the guard-rails causing another round of "This Is Awesome" chants! Daniels climbed onto the turnbuckle and hit the Best Moonsault Ever from inside the ring to outside in a beautiful, yet insanely crazy spot!

Both men took their time getting to their feet, but did so at almost the same time; they then followed each other back into the ring and to their feet where they exchanged groggy right hands, Daniels got the upperhand with a few chops, before spinning behind AJ and hitting a backbreaker that made AJ scream in agony. Daniels attempted another BME, but AJ was able to roll out the way; but Daniels somehow managed the full 360 degree rotation, landing on his feet; only to be met with an extremely desperate Pelé Kick from AJ. Referee Rudy Charles began a 10 count for a double count-out. Both men got to their feet around 'eight', and the fight somehow continued once more. This time AJ got the upperhand, hitting a few knees to Daniels gut before pulling him up for a Styles Clash, but Daniels rolled out and rebounded off the ropes coming back for a Bulldog, but AJ just shoved Daniels off, forcing him to land hard on his backside, and giving AJ the opportunity to boot Daniels hard in the back, before almost jumping to the top rope for a Spiral Tap. AJ launched himself off just as Daniels moved, and AJ felt the true meanings of the words "Nobody Home", this gave Daniels the full advantage, and the Fallen Angel lifted AJ up, just to drop him back down with the Angel's Wings. Daniels covered; One... Two... Three, and Daniels was victorious!

Daniels jumped up celebrating, before being handed the X-Division Title as AJ began to recover and look on in shock! AJ started to throw a tantrum, slamming his fists on the mat and drawing attention to himself. Daniels stopped him and helped him to his feet, before advancing his hand just like had done before the match. This didn't amuse AJ though, and the former X-Division Champion just looked pissed off. AJ slapped Daniels hard across the mouth and left the ring; leaving him the message that he wasn't done just yet!

Result: Christopher Daniels defeated 'The Phenomenal' AJ Styles by pinfall. Christopher Daniels retains the TNA X-Division Title [16:43]

Match Nine

NWA World Heavyweight Championship

Abyss =O= v Sting v Raven

It was finally time for the main event; and what a main event it was lined up to be; Abyss, Raven and Sting, one on one on one with Abyss' NWA World Heavyweight Championship. First out was Raven, sans entrance music but being followed closely by his three nameless 'droogs'. Raven stopped at the bottom of the ramp; turning round to face his droogs, before bowing to them as a sign of respect and climbing into the ring. Next out was Sting to a thunderous ovation from the crowd. Sting made his way to the ring, baseball bat in hand as Raven looked on intently. Sting was stopped at the bottom of the ramp by the droogs, who demanded Sting bow to them before being allowed into the ring, but the ring veteran just shoved the centre droog aside and climbed into the ring. Finally came the NWA World Heavyweight Champion; "The Monster" Abyss with his manager "Father" James Mitchell. Abyss made his way to the ring, climbing in to face his two challengers for his title as the match started.

The three men began by circling each other, none wanting to jump the gun and start the violence that was sure to commence. After a while Sting jumped to Abyss, only to be shoved back by Raven, who knocked Sting into the corner and attacked with a few knee lifts, before dropping him down to a seated position and continuing the attack with punches to the head. Raven turned to see Abyss just watching, before stepping aside and allowing Abyss a piece of Sting. Abyss attacked, running to the corner with a strong boot to Sting's face; only to be Axe Handled by Raven; who attacked with a few jabs to the face, before hitting a discus jab sending Abyss a few steps back; Raven repeated the jab-jab-jab-discus jab routine a second time before realising it would take more to get the huge Abyss off his feet. Raven tried for a third time but was grabbed by the throat by Abyss who lifted him up and sent him over the top rope into the Droogs below, leaving Abyss and Sting in the ring. Sting got to his feet and started to brawl with Abyss with the two trading blows, only for Abyss to get the upperhand, lifting Sting up by the throat with both hands and dropping him back down into the turnbuckle, before charging him with a running splash. Sting fell face first to the floor as Abyss focused his attentions back to Raven, who had just recovered outside the ring. Abyss climbed out of the ring and exchanged a few blows with Raven as the Droogs watched on, before attacking Abyss and knocking him down to the floor in a 3-on-1 assault. Raven took this opportunity to climb back into the ring and attack Sting; who quickly overpowered Raven and got the upperhand, hitting him with a few weak rights before knocking him down the floor with a pretty solid Dropkick and covering for a two count.

Sting picked Raven back up, before throwing him into the corner and rushing him with a short arm clothesline; forcing Raven to rebound off the turnbuckle and get caught with a Single-Arm Bulldog from the Stinger. Sting covered again; but was dragged out of the ring by one of the hooded droogs, and a brawl erupted with Abyss and Sting taking down all three droogs before coming face to face with each other. Sting out-stretched his hand to Abyss to start to strike up an alliance during the match, but was attacked with a Baseball slide from Raven. Abyss then came to blows with Raven, grabbing him by the throat and launching him over the steel barricade and into the crowd. Abyss climbed over the barricade; stalking Raven, who pushed himself away before picking up a chair and throwing it at the Monster; who just pulled the chair close to him and smashed it onto the ground before attempting to his Raven with it, but the former NWA World Heavyweight Champion used his experience edge to catch Abyss by the legs and take him down with a drop toe hold; forcing him to land head first onto the chair onto an unfolded chair. Raven jumped to his feet and pulled Abyss back before calling for the area to be cleared and hitting a bulldog over three different chairs. Raven then left Abyss down on the floor and climbed back over to ringside; where he attacked Sting who was once again busy with the Droogs. Raven called for the Droogs to "get some wood", and they complied, pulling out a table from under the ring and setting it up. Sting and Raven then brawled outside the ring, with neither man getting a full advantage until Sting used the table to his advantage; smashing Raven's head against it before pushing him back into the barricade. Sting went to attack, but once again Raven hit a Drop Toe Hold; forcing Sting's neck hard down into the barricade. Raven then dropped to one knee; removing part of his shoelace and wrapping it around Sting's neck before tugging hard; forcing the air out of Sting. Raven would have had Sting KO'ed there and then, but was blindsided by Abyss who had recovered to smash Raven hard across the back with a steel chair before talking to James Mitchell and getting his bag of trademark tacks!

Abyss poured the bag of thousands of tiny tacks into the ring before leaving again and grabbing Raven by the back of the neck. Abyss threw Raven into the ring, before attempting to choke toss Raven into the tacks; but the more experienced Raven kicked Abyss in the gut and pulled him up for a Piledriver onto the tacks; only to drop him down to his feet and quickly roll out of the ring to attack Sting again. The three droogs stepped over to Raven; looking at him confused by Raven's decision not to destroy Abyss. Raven ignored the droogs and continued to fight Sting; knocking him down with a Short Arm Clothesline before being attacked by Abyss with a shoulder tackle. Abyss went to pull Raven up again; only to get low-blowed and put down onto the floor. Raven then continued to focus his attention on Sting; throwing him onto the table before climbing on himself and attempting to hit his Evenflow DDT; only to be thrown off with a back body drop by Sting; who hopped back off the table; picked Raven up and threw him back into the ring. Back in the ring and the two men brawled, this time with Sting getting the upperhand; pulling Raven up and hitting a Scorpion Death Drop on the former NWA World Heavyweight Champion; only to be dragged out of the ring a second time by the Droogs when he attempted a pin. Sting brawled with the three members of the New Movement; but was soon taken down due to the numbers game; only to be saved by Abyss; who came to the aid with two big boots and an Belly to Belly Suplex. Abyss helped Sting to his feet, shaking his hand; only to instantly turn on him due to the wishes of James Mitchell and hit Sting with a brutal Black Hole Slam on the outside of the ring. Abyss then climbed back into the ring, picking up Raven, only to be kicked in the gut again, before receiving a nasty Evenflow DDT onto the tacks.

Both Raven and Abyss recoiled in pain from the tacks; with Abyss transferring the pain to momentum, getting to his feet and almost going crazy; throwing Raven from one side of the ring to the other; before attempting a Black Hole Slam; Raven countered it though, ducking Abyss grab attempt and rebounding off the ropes with a Bulldog; once again into the tacks! Abyss recoiled once again; but was caught by Raven who dropped him down with a second Evenflow DDT. Raven could have won right there; but to more confusion from the droogs neglected to attempt the pin; instead rolling out of the ring once more. Raven conversed with the Droogs; who instantly calmed down and allowed for Raven to search under the ring; pulling out a garbage can and lid, which Raven used to smash over the head of Sting; who was just recovering; forcing the former WCW star to tumble backwards and back onto the table. two of the Droogs held Sting down onto the table; as the third one climbed into the ring and onto the top rope. The third droog (TAFKA Matt Bentley) launched himself off the top rope; only to eat wood as Sting wrestled his way off the table and out of the impact. Sting climbed back into the ring; filled with a sudden urge of energy. Sting threw Raven into the turnbuckle; before hitting him with a beautiful Stinger Splash, knocking Raven down to the floor before locking in the Scorpion Death Lock. Raven was milliseconds from tapping; but was taken down by Abyss; who grabbed him by the throat; attempting a Chokeslam onto the tacks; only to be kicked in the gut by Sting; thrown into the turnbuckle next to the tacks; and hitting him with his second Stinger Splash of the match; before pushing Abyss down face first into the tacks; making the monster recoil from the pain for a third time!

Sting taunted for a moment, before being attacked by a groggy Raven. who attempted a few weak punches; only to have them countered each time. Raven Irish whipped Sting; but was taken down by a flying shoulder block from the Stinger; who continued to taunt; only to be blindsided by two of the three Droogs; who hit him with a few nice moves; only to be put down by punches and clotheslines. Sting then focussed on one of the droogs; knocking him down three times before pulling him up and hitting his second Scorpion Death Drop of the match; before locking in his second Scorpion Death Lock. The droog (TAFKA Johnny Devine) screamed and tapped in pain as the other droog grabbed Sting's trademark Baseball Bat and attempted to use it against its owner. But Sting had it scouted; letting go of the Death Lock and shaking his finger at TAFKA Kazarian. Sting attempted to attack the droog; but was caught off guard by Raven; who spun him round and hit his Evenflow DDT. Raven struggled to pin Sting; but did so; only to have the mysterious Stinger kick out at 2! Raven and Sting struggled to get to their feet; before struggling to put up a constant fight against the other; both of them having to take breaths before fighting. Meanwhile Abyss got back to his feet; before taking both men down with a Double Clothesline, Abyss then attempted to attack Raven; but the former ECW superstar shouted at Abyss; telling him to attack Sting instead. Abyss didn't listen and grabbed Raven by the neck. Meanwhile; the three Droogs began to recover, and started to take a triangle formation in the ring. Abyss pulled Raven up for the Chokeslam, but stopped immediately as he heard the three Droogs chanting. Abyss released Raven, who backed into the corner with a smirk on his face as Abyss grabbed Sting by the throat and Chokeslammed him in the centre of the ring. Abyss; still listening to the chanting then dropped to his knees and covered Sting. 1... 2... 3... Abyss had won.

Following his victory; Abyss got to his feet and continued to look at the three droogs; who were still chanting. Raven grabbed the NWA World Heavyweight Title from ringside and passed it to Abyss who lifted it high above his head as his manager and controller; James Mitchell also climbed into the ring. Mitchell lifted Abyss arm; but Abyss was still listening to the chants. Then, under Raven's command; Abyss grabbed Mitchell by the throat; before throwing him down; delivering another Chokeslam. Raven then commanded Abyss to lift up Sting. Abyss did so, and still under Raven's command; Abyss lifted Sting up and hit a vicious Black Hole Slam with 2 rotations. Raven laughed as Abyss growled into his championship and Turning Point went off the air!

Result: Abyss defeated Sting and Raven by pinfall. Abyss retains the NWA World Heavyweight Championship [20:39] [b+]

End Transmission

Edited January 9, 2007 by O!