World Championship Wrestling - 2001

[Pesci]

Well, I got two predictions right. I just thought that since The InSiders are FACES, it'd be the logical thing to have HEELS win the Tag Team Title #1 Contendership, unless KroniK ARE heels here, of course.

I think after his "Legend Killer" promo, we've pretty much established that the mystery man isn't Raven. I don't think anybody would choose to write him in that manner. I'm guessing Steve Corino as a long-shot, but like I said, 'tis a long-shot.

[ADG]

The Diary of Andrew Duncan Gray

January 14th 2001

Pay Per Views Are Only Good When Porn Is Involved……

“You’ll love the show Mr. Turner, trust me, it’ll be great.”

And with that one sentence my nose grew three inches, now if only another part of my anatomy would follow suit. Oh come on, it’s my diary. You think I’m not going to insert a few penis jokes when I can?

I felt bad about lying to my boss, but he must have known I was lying. He saw the show preview, he saw the commercials, he saw the look on my face when I told him it’d be a great event. Either he knew and didn’t say anything or he’s really fucking stupid.

Still everyone in the back seemed ready for tonight, even Goldberg was smiling when I shook his hand for the first time. The smile quickly disappeared though…….

“Okay Bill now we’re gonna do a bit where you’re attacked before the show and sent to hospital.”

“What?”

“It’s okay Bill, it’s okay.”

“I came here to be on the show.”

“And you are, you are.”

“Yeah, I get attacked. That’s all? Just a mention at the start, you’re just gonna get Schiavone to say ‘Oh Goldberg was attacked. He’s in hospital. Now on with the show!’?”

“No, no, no”

“No? So I’m actually wrestling?”

“Yeah the match starts and you arrive back.”

“I win the match?”

“Weeeellll……..”

“I win the match?”

“Um see…”

“If I don’t get to be out there for long I win at least right?”

Suddenly I have the feeling that Nash is going to be easy to handle compared to this man.

“Yeah of course, of course. You come out, kick some major league Magnificent Seven arse and win the match.”

“That’s better.”

“Right so can we get this attack on camera please?”

“Where do you want me?”

We got the bit filmed and Goldberg went off to his dressing room.

The show started well enough, Helms & Moore got a win in a good 4 way match, and then everything went to shit in the second match. It wasn’t pretty when we Sanders got to the back.

“What the fuck was that?”

“I know, I know.”

“You trying to screw us?”

“What? Of course not. The referee fucked up.”

“Yeah well he better not have a job anymore.”

“Don’t…don’t worry, he doesn’t.”

“Good.”

Kwee-Wee wasn’t that bothered though.

“It happens” was all he said. I like Kwee-Wee. He’s a nice guy.

The show must go on though and we sent the word out for KroniK to go over. The logic here was simple. Three big shit guys and Diamond Dallas Page surely will put on a great match? I wanted The Perfect Event but Nash of course decided to finally use his creative control. “I’m not wrestling Perfect Event or those two gymnasts!” So KroniK got the nod.

Then we came to the Funk part. Our mystery man did a good job with his promo although I’ve told him to be more like himself and less like he thinks we want him to be in the future.

The main event went well too. Goldberg got a MASSIVE pop when he won although his attitude is already annoying me. The moment he gets through the curtain, you know what his first words to me were?

“So when do I get the title?”

I just walked off………………………

Goodnight.

[KJE]

I marked like a bitch when Goldberg came out. Really good show. I'm surprised KroniK/Helms & Moore was good; Helms and Moore must have some okay brawling stats or something. The Funk match caught me off guard. Really good show, excited for Nitro now.

[Pesci]

Nice entry there, ADGray. Nice to see you taking the time and the effort to put out not only two top quality shows a week, but the occasional news report, a weekly meeting, AND diary entries. Awesome, awesome commitment and the awesome skill to go along with it.

Good job, I hope you keep it up dude

[Guest UmpireAJS]

Hehe, being stuck with Goldberg and Nash is not the nicest place to be, that's why Russo made them retire in consecutive months! so he was only stuck with Scott Steiner,who was not actually bad BTW.

But good entry,SiN getting a mega buy rate! I believe it was around 0.57 in the real life.

[ADG]

Booker’s Thoughts Memo – Jan 8th to Jan 14th.

Okay everyone, quite a number of things to cover this week so stick with me please alright?

PAY PER VIEW THOUGHTS

Overall our first pay per view of the year was average. Good strong showing from Shane, Shannon, Kaz and Yang in the opening match and the second match was also quite good. The Conservatory match sucked but that was expected. Terry is getting used to the cage but everyone else is finding it daunting. The 8 man could have been better but the crowd reaction was excellent at the end. All in all a thumbs up for the show but we’ve got a long way to go yet, so don’t get ahead of yourself.

TV THOUGHTS

In a total contrast to the PPV we had a weak week of programming. Special congratulations go out to Jim Duggan and Major Stash for putting on the worst match I have EVER seen. I have sent both to Montana for a while partly to improve and partly as punishment for that awful match.

HIRINGS

There have been rumblings from certain people over the hiring of O.G Ekmo and Kimo to the company. These two were brought in to add to a failing tag division. The pay cuts of our biggest earners there is more than enough to hire a couple more free agents but this won’t happen. Please note The Briscoe Brothers who went by Conquistadors 2000 on Wednesday night were paid for that one appearance. I was told of their availability by a friend in Denver and they woeked the show. There are no plans to bring anyone else in on written contracts although I will be taking advantage of some PPA contracts in the next few weeks, but only if we at least break even for this month.

SATURDAY NIGHT SLOT

Talking with Mr. Turner over the phone before Sin I brought up possibly getting Saturday night back. He told me to take my coffee cup and shove it up my anal passage. Obviously right now we haven’t done enough to warrant a return of Saturday Night. Keep working at it.

WEEKLY MEETING

Would the usual people please be there earlier than usual on Monday. I’d like everyone to be present and correct at 11am. Which means you need to get an early night on Sunday. Late comings will not be tolerated. *cough*KEVIN*cough*

VARIOUS NOTES

Major Stash: I’m very close to demoting you to Cadet. Enjoy Montana.

The “Time Crisis” Match: I’ll be working out a few kinks in the idea in the next few days. I’ll keep you all posted and it is nothing like the Royal Rumble to all those who said it was. Thinking about possibly introducing the TC Match as an annual thing if all goes well.

Goldberg: Thanks for being co-operative…………….mostly.

The Cruiserweights: You keep excelling yourselves in and out of the ring. You deserve all your praise. If anyone insults you, kick them, then run.

Pay Cuts: As you know with the financial difficulties of the company wages are a big concern for us. The biggest earners have led the way sacrificing about a quarter of their wages each. While I don’t expect those earning less to make that contribution, a thousand here and a thousand there wouldn’t go amiss.

That's everything. Okay guys and gals, see you at Nitro. :thumbsup:

[ADG]

WCW MONDAY NITRO PREVIEW

WCW Sin is over and done with and what a night it was! With Goldberg coming out on top getting the pinfall victory over Scott Steiner surely this would make him the #1 Contender? We’ve heard that Goldberg will be in action against Rick Steiner in the main event tonight. What kind of shape will Goldberg be in tonight? He can’t surely have recovered from the attack last night. Also we’ll find out what Larry Zbysko has to say about the situation tonight! Will the “Time Crisis” match go ahead?

We crowned #1 contenders for the WCW Tag Team Titles last night at Sin as KroniK emerged victorious. Tonight we crown a #1 contender for the WCW United States Championship in a 10 man over-the-top-rope Battle Royal!

Tonight Rey Misterio will hope to continue his recent momentum and put himself into contention for the WCW Cruiserweight Championship. It isn’t so much the title Misterio wants though, more to get his hands on Chavo Guerrero Jr.

Also tonight on Nitro, we’ll hear from Terry Funk. We know that David Flair was only a messenger for a still unknown foe but he still got beaten seven ways from Sunday by Funk anyway. We’ll get The Funker’s thoughts tonight!

- Confirmed Matches -

Goldberg vs. Rick Steiner

Battle Royal for the #1 Contendership for the WCW US Title

Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Elix Skipper

Straight Outta Samoa vs. Air Raid

Norman Smiley vs. Meng

Edited August 4, 2004 by ADGray

[ADG]

WCW MONDAY NITRO

Live from the Idaho Center in Boise, Idaho, it’s the one, the only, WCW Monday Nitro! Strap yourselves in……………..for the ride! Your hosts for this evening Tony Schiavone and Gary Michael Cappetta!

- HE DOES THE “BIG WIGGLE” AND GETS A BIG WIN -

Norman Smiley vs. Meng

Well for once we’ll be kicking off WCW programming WITHOUT the normal cruiserweight match, they’ve been moved up the card slightly, with Norman Smiley and the man known as Meng kicking us off. It feels weird not seeing Misterio, Chavo or Styles in there. I sort of miss it……

And I want it back pronto! Seriously give me my cruiserweights, give Meng a bath and Smiley a new gimmick! This match was painful to watch and painful to listen to as Schiavone repeatedly tried to convince us that those kicks just grazing Smiley’s stomach were in fact full contact blows and it was a wonder Smiley was still on his feet. Yeah right, really that was as convincing as the FOX Network reporting on the election. So we have Meng unloading with not-so-vicious kicks and Smiley over-selling them, what happens next? Why Smiley makes his comeback of course! An incredible comeback at that too, or so we’d be led to believe but Meng’s selling job was very weak at times and Smiley never got any momentum going before locking in the Norman Conquest (BEST.NAME.EVER) for the submission win.

Not much to say here. ¼* for your usual average opening match.

(55/59/57)

Winner: Norman Smiley

- THE FUNKER HAS SOMETHING TO SAY-

Backstage we go with “Mean” Gene Okerlund - the travelling minstrel - and the WCW Hardcore Champion, Terry Funk.

“Mean” Gene Okerlund: WCW fans, I am here backstage with the WCW Hardcore Champion, a certified wrestling legend Terry Funk. Now Terry, last night you defended your title against David Flair but we know now that it wasn’t David Flair who has been tormenting you in recent weeks. Indeed whomever it is, isn’t ready to reveal themselves. Can we get your thoughts on the subject?

Terry Funk: Well goddamn Gene Okerlund you sure use a lot of big words don’t ya? And you sure take your time asking a goddamn question! I don’t know who this son of a bitch is that is playing games with me, but I don’t care. He can play his games and run his mouth, but he’s a Grade A pussy for not coming straight out and facin’ me!

“Mean” Gene Okerlund: Well uh, well surely these mind games have gotten to you slightly? Last week you had a violent outburst and we saw you destroy David Flair last night.

Terry Funk: I destroyed David Flair because he got in my way. David Flair is a little snot nosed punk livin’ off a name Okerlund. I exposed him for what he is, a little no talent S.O.B! But I don’t care about Flair now. I don’t care about this mystery man. I am Terry Funk, Gene Okerlund. A former NWA Champion and I don’t need no punk ass kid like David Flair delivering any messages to me. That itself shows the cowardice of this man. He sends David Flair to do his dirty work!

“Mean” Gene Okerlund: Well I……I…….oh my!

All rejoice as “Mean” Gene is pushed out of the way by Funk just before a raging Crowbar arrives on the scene and tackles Funk to the ground. The two roll around for a few seconds before backstage workers and security manage to separate the two. So lucky they’re always nearby isn’t it? Anyway, we get some cat-fight style brawling as we head to commercial.

(80)

Terry Funk gained overness from this segment.

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- MISTERIO SQUEAKS OUT A WIN BUT HIS MIND IS ELSEWHERE -

Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Elix Skipper

We come back from the commercial and we get our CRUISERWEIGHT GOODNESS as everyone’s favourite cruiserweight Rey Misterio Jr. goes one on one with that loveable scamp from Team Canada, Elix Skipper. The big question on everyone’s lips is will Chavo have any impact?

Well Chavo didn’t make an appearance which really I’m glad about as it allowed these two to go for a full fifteen minutes uninterrupted. Hold followed hold as often as tick followed tock as Misterio and Skipper busted out every cruiserweight move under the sun to the partial delight of the fans. Skipper brought out moonsaults, missile dropkicks and the occasional plancha to the outside while Misterio made his contribution with a Swinging DDT, a 6-1-9, various head-scissor counters and a nice 450 Splash for a close two count. Misterio had the match won a number of times if it wasn’t for the appearance of first Mike Awesome and then his stable mate and running buddy Lance Storm. Both tried to swing the match in favour of Skipper but even with their help Mexico proved greater than Canada in this instance with Misterio scoring the win with the Flying Hurricanrana for the 1-2-3 win. Nitro went to commercial as Gary Michael Cappetta told viewers he would be interviewing Misterio “after the break!”

15 minutes of beautiful wrestling. Congratulations WCW, its’ taken you 2 weeks and 5 shows, but you’ve got your first *** match of the year.

(87/65/76)

Winner: Rey Misterio Jr.

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- REY REY HAS HIS SAY -

Nitro comes back from commercial and what the hell is this? Rey Misterio is actually getting time on the microphone? Okay he’s sharing it with Midget Man but still, this is not your daddy’s WCW that’s for sure!

Gary Michael Cappetta: Well fans as you just saw Rey Misterio Junior overcoming all the odds against Elix Skipper but Rey I and all these fans know that, that your mind is elsewhere at the moment isn’t it?

Rey Misterio Jr: Well that’s right Gary Cappetta. Two weeks ago on this very programme, Chavo Guerrero crushed the ankles of my best buddies Billy Kidman and Konnan essé. And since that day Chavo knows I have been after him for vengeance, but he’s scared to face me. Why is that Gary? He’s got those two fatsos as backup. I got Tygress, but she isn’t here holmes. She’s at home ill. She’s been ill since she drank a little too much tequila at New Year if you know what I mean essé. I’m here by myself, but still he won’t fight me.

Gary Michael Cappetta: Well perhaps Chavo is being a bit of a coward, but he might just say he’s picking his spots. We’ve seen the two of you exchange blows already this year. When do you think you would step into the ring with him?

Rey Misterio Jr: Whenever he wants to Gary Cappetta. Heck Chavo you’re back there right now, come on down here and we’ll get it on!

The crowd cheers this but instead of Chavo’s music beginning his henchmen come out to their own new music dressed for battle. Misterio steadies himself in the ring but from behind comes Chavo Guerrero in his street clothes! Chavo knocks Misterio down and S.O.S rush the ring. They get a couple of good blows in before referees rush the ring to pull Misterio out and away. Chavo pulls Cappetta across and grabs his microphone.

Chavo Guerrero Jr: I told you before essé. I told you before and I’ll tell you again. You don’t want to face me. This is my title and as hard as you try, no-one will take it from me! Now it’s time for another demonstration. Send out the opponents!

Air Raid come out from the back to a mild reaction and the match is on!

(73)

- THE SAMOANS THWART AN AIR RAID -

Straight Outta Samoa vs. Air Raid

We enter Squashville, turn right at the lights, take a left at the Post Office and you’re in front of the motel. The same motel housing Straight Outta Samoa and Air Raid. Maybe you can get an autograph if you see them.

Welcome to Squashville, home of entertaining if short matches. Population? O.G Ekmo and Kimo. Two loveable scamps who spend their days beating smaller babyface tag teams to a bloody pulp. As was evidenced here as the two Samoans destroyed Air Raid in little over 2 and a half minutes with a variety of slams, suplexes and double team power based moves, before finishing it with a Spinebuster from Ekmo and the top rope splash from Kimo for the 1-2-3. Well, the work was solid, even if there was only 3 minutes of it.

Well, 3 minutes of action still better than the main event will be. *½.

(81/46/63)

Winner: Straight Outta Samoa

- CHAVO MAKES HIS FEELINGS CLEAR -

Chavo rolls into the ring and hugs his friends before handing them a $100 bill each. They check to see it is real and put it in their pockets. Chavo then calls for a microphone:

Chavo Guerrero Jr: How many times holmes? How many times do I have to make it clear that these two men are unstoppable essé. Air Raid know it, those Conquistador dudes know it essé and after tonight Rey Misterio Jr. definitely knows it! But I’m gonna give you a chance Misterio, I’m going to give you a shot holmes. You see right now, you’re not the #1 contender to this WCW Cruiserweight Championship, but you earn a shot essé, and you can start………….at SuperBrawl Revenge. If you accept Misterio, it’ll be Rey Misterio Jr. versus Straight Outta Samoa! Let’s go holmes.

Chavo signals with his hand and he and S.O.S leave as Nitro goes to a break.

(69)

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- THE FRANCHISE GETS HIS SHOT -

10 Man Battle Royal

We come back from commercial and we are ready for the 10 man battle royal. Our 10 competitors are Team Canada’s Lance Storm and Mike Awesome, Chris Kanyon, perennial under-achiever Stevie Ray, The Cat –thankfully mamaless -, Big Vito, Dustin Rhodes, The MIA’s Sergeant A-WALL, “The Franchise” Shane Douglas and old school face Wayne DeBruce.

We start out with a big melee and right away we say goodbye to Wayne DeBruce and Stevie Ray, who takes the weakest over the top rope bump in all of wrestling history. I told you he was an under-achiever didn’t I? Stevie is pissed though and wants back in. Fuck off Stevie, you were eliminated, deal with it! DeBruce though looks alright, he’s still getting paid for tonight so he’s content. Awesome and Storm then become the Double Team of Doom and knock down everyone, with Vito and The Cat biting the dust……Doo doo doo doo, another one bites the dust!.......Anyway, The Cat doesn’t care much either, he just dances heading back up the aisle although much to his chagrin Vito won’t join in. Spoilsport. So we’re down to six, Douglas, Storm, Awesome, Kanyon, Rhodes and A-WALL. Oh, make that five as Sergeant A-WALL has just gone bye bye over the top rope and too the floor thanks to Team Canada. We went down to five guys and all watching got a flashback to the 1995 Royal Rumble as Team Canada went to one corner, Douglas to another, Kanyon to another and Rhodes to the final one. We got a quick staredown of each other before we were off again with Kanyon and Douglas going at each other and Team Canada beating down on Rhodes. Next to go was Awesome, but not because of Rhodes, instead Rhodes ducked a Superkick from Storm and Awesome went for the ride over the top and to the floor. He was quickly joined by Storm who went courtesy of a Dustin Rhodes backdrop. Down to three and Kanyon and Douglas were still trying to eliminate each other. Rhodes came across and tried to toss both out but while Kanyon hit the floor Douglas held on and with Rhodes turning away in celebration thinking the match was his “The Franchise” rolled back in and through Rhodes over the top to the floor. “The Franchise” Shane Douglas wins the battle royal!

A shoddy battle royal over all that just went by far too quickly. ½* for a good choice for winner.

(50/70/63)

Winner: “The Franchise” Shane Douglas

- “THE FRANCHISE” SPEAKS! -

Again Gary Michael Cappetta gets up from the broadcast booth with a microphone and climbs into the ring.

Gary Michael Cappetta: Well fans it looks like “The Franchise” Shane Douglas will be going to SuperBrawl Revenge to face the United States Champion General Rection. Franchise, congratulations on your win.

“The Franchise” Shane Douglas: Be smart little man and shut your mouth. Let “The Franchise” speak, like all these people out here want him to! These people know real wrestling talent and for too long, I have been held down. For too long, I’ve been over-looked in World Championship Wrestling. This battle royal was my saving grace and I grabbed my chance with both hands. At SuperBrawl, I step into the ring against General Hugh G. Rection for the WCW United States Championship. Those who hold the US Title, often go on to hold the World Title. I’ve been a World Champion before Gary Cappetta, and after I become US Champion and prove myself, I will be WCW World Heavyweight Champion.

“The Franchise” leaves to a chorus of boos from the crowd as we head to a quick recap of the main event at Sin. The match is signed. General Rection vs. “The Franchise” Shane Douglas for SuperBrawl Revenge!

(75)

**RECAP OF SIN MAIN EVENT**

- GOLDBERG IS WALKING! -

We come back from commercial and Rick Steiner is already in the ring, accompanied by his brother Scott Steiner. They’re already out there so the fans at home wouldn’t see the pathetic reaction Rick would get. We go backstage to a door with “GOLDBERG” plastered over it.

Backstage Worker: It’s time……..

There is a bang heard on the door and then it opens and Goldberg walks out to a cheer from the crowd. He starts to walk down the corridor to the curtain as Nitro head to its final commercial.

(74)

Goldberg lost overness from this segment.

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- AND MILLIONS TURN OFF THEIR TV SETS -

Goldberg vs. Rick Steiner

We’re back from commercial and it’s main event time here on Nitro! Rick Steiner is already in the ring pacing back and forth while his brother and WCW World Champion Scott Steiner stands on the apron on the far side of the ring. Goldberg comes out through the pyros kicking and screaming and we’re off.

And we come to a screeching halt. Goldberg and Steiner tried their damndest here – well no they didn’t but still they did try – to put on a good match and Rick especially looked happy to be in the main event but there is that little matter of them both sucking, gagging and throwing up on……………the cock. In what was very surprising Goldberg had the common sense to see where this one was headed and go into MONSTER MODE – Translation: No sell everything and scream a lot. But it worked and the crowd got into it slightly even though most were still wondering what the hell Rick Steiner was doing in the main event. Before they could come to a conclusion however the match was over, courtesy of a Spear and Jackhammer for the 1-2-3. HOWEVER it was not over as Goldberg would suffer the fate of a HUGE beatdown post match as both Steiners were joined in the ring by the rest of the Magnificent Seven. Goldberg suffered a Stroke, a Powerslam and a Bulldog before battling back against the odds. Bagwell, Luger and Animal were all tossed from the ring, Flair, Jarrett and Rick Steiner ate boot and Scott Steiner headed for higher ground before Goldberg could get to him. But this night wasn’t finished yet………

Sucked. DUD.

(49/68/62)

Winner: Goldberg

- ZBYSKO DECIDES ON STEINER’S SUPERBRAWL STATUS -

…..No we aren’t done as the President of WCW, good old Larry Zbysko comes out onto the stage. Steiner turns in shock to Zbysko who has a microphone. We’ve not got long left. Goldberg is watching on from the ring.

Larry Zbysko: Following last night’s main event, I have decided to go ahead and make a rash choice. Last night Scott Steiner, you…………were……..pinned. And as such, the person who pinned you deserves a shot at that title belt. So at SuperBrawl Revenge, it will be Scott Steiner versus Goldberg!

Nitro now chooses to go off the air with a smiling Zbysko, a grinning Goldberg, a shocked Steiner and even more alliterative adjectives for the rest of the Magnificent Seven.

(67)

Overall Show Rating: 68%

We got a 5.06 rating for 'Nitro'!

The attendance level was 5508 people.

We made $137700 from ticket sales.

[MalaCloudy Black]

Good show, sucks about Steiner/Goldberg being a complete fucking DUD though - but what do you expect from *them*? BTW, congratulations WCW on your first *** match

[Pesci]

Nice Nitro as usual, ADGray, and Goldberg VS Steiner should be... Interesting. I'm sure WrestleCrap would have a field day.

Oh, and make sure you write Mysterio VS S.O.S as a squash, or I'll be most disappointed

What's funnier than a team with a total combined weight of 800 pounds squashing a 150 pound midget? My sentiments exactly.

[Eric]

Great diary, and some great bad matches... I enjoy the sometimes sad realism, and how you aren't pushing the cruiserweights through the roof like a lot of other diaries. Many of us would like to see that happen in every fed, but it doesn't because of your creative control guys like Nash and such. Good work.

[ADG]

The Diary of Andrew Duncan Gray

January 15th 2001

Dealing With Egos………But Not Doing It Very Well

You ever seen that Simpson’s episode where Bart and Lisa keep bothering Homer about going to Itchy & Scratchy Land? Well replace Bart and Lisa with Bill Goldberg, Homer with me and the question “Can we go to Itchy & Scratchy Land?” with “So when am I getting the belt back?” As you could imagine this gets very tiresome, very quickly.

“So when am I getting the belt back?”

“Bill……”

“When am I getting it back?”

“Bill……..”

“When?”

“I don’t know!”

“Why not? You are the booker!”

“I know.”

“So why don’t you know when I’m getting the title back?”

“Because we haven’t written you into the title picture.”

“Why not? I’m the biggest star we have.”

“But I haven’t written you in yet.”

“Well I want written in!”

“Look I have my ideas for the title. You’re not in the title picture.”

“Look, either you write me in or I walk up north.”

“Fine…..”

“What I’m in the title picture?”

“No, go up north!”

I was trying to call his bluff. It didn’t really work……..

“Fine then.”

Ooohh shit!

“No, no, no Bill! Alright you’re in the title picture.”

“I am?”

“Yes, you and Scott, SuperBrawl Revenge.”

“And I get the title?”

“I’m not sure about that yet. But you’re in the title picture. That’s good enough for now I think.”

“Alright. Bye.”

What’s that phrase? ‘Out of the frying pan, into the fire’? Well I just dived into the fire. I had just sat down in my makeshift office when who should burst in but Kevin Nash.

“I’m not jobbing.”

“What?”

“I’m not jobbing.”

“To who?”

“KroniK”

“What!?!”

“I’m not jobbing to KroniK.”

“You asked that KroniK win. You used your CC over it!”

“Yeah I know.”

“I thought that meant you were gonna lose the titles to them?”

“No.”

“Oh God……”

“Not jobbing.”

“Why not?”

“They’re not in our league.”

“Well they’d be in your league if you lost to them.”

“But we’re not going to.”

“No you’re not going to.”

“Dallas is with me on this.”

“It doesn’t matter if Dallas agrees with you. He doesn’t need to agree with you. Your CC clause means I can’t make you lose.”

“Good that you know that.”

“Just think about it though ok?”

“Think about what.”

“Losing to KroniK.”

“Forget it.”

And with that he left.

“What………a……..bastard.”

The nerve of Kevin Nash! The Tag Titles mean nothing on him and Page. They’re too good for the titles – Bwahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha – or at least Sophie says so. Told you she wasn’t very bright didn’t I?

The meeting was the usual battle of egos, with Nash especially cheery, having refused to lose the title earlier in the day he knew anything I brought up he could just say “Remember earlier?” and I’d lose any momentum I had against him. I brought up Goldberg and Nash started on a big lecture about how he was “bad for business” but they have more in common than you’d think. Both of them refused pay cuts. Bloody creative control clauses.

Still, no sense crying over spilt milk and I'm knackered anyway.

Goodnight.

[ADG]

WCW THUNDER PREVIEW

Thunder will be explosive this week as World Championship Wrestling is still reeling from Larry Zbysko’s shock announcement on Nitro that has left the wrestling world in a frenzy. In less than one months time Scott Steiner will defend his WCW World Title against the man, the myth, the legend, Goldberg and we will see the first ever “Time Crisis” match at Superbrawl Revenge! All WCW Superstars are aware that if they impress they may just be one of the 20 in the “Time Crisis” and so this week we bring a lot of matches your way!

We’re a month away from Superbrawl and tonight on TBS we have a huge main event. Goldberg was made all too aware after his match on Nitro that the Magnificent Seven will do everything in their power to protect one another. Tonight Goldberg has been handed a lifeline from Larry Zbysko. Over the next few weeks Goldberg will face all the members of the Magnificent Seven except Scott & Rick Steiner. The men he defeats are banned from ringside at Superbrawl! So tonight Goldberg begins his quest as he goes one on one with Road Warrior Animal!

We have our first matches signed for Superbrawl and #1 contenders decided. Now is the time for them to raise their game. Tonight we’ll see superb six man tag action as WCW Tag Team Champions The InSiders team with WCW US Champion General Rection against KroniK and “The Franchise” Shane Douglas.

The antics of the self proclaimed “Killer of Legends” have affected Terry Funk in recent weeks and The Funker is becoming more and more on edge every day. Tonight Terry Funk looks to take out some of his pent up frustration in a Funkin’ Conservatory match!

Also tonight, Rey Misterio will be in action as he looks to solidify his hopes of being made #1 contender for the WCW Cruiserweight Championship when he faces Alex Wright!

All this and more on WCW Thunder!

- Confirmed Matches -

Goldberg vs. Road Warrior Animal

The InSiders & General Rection vs. KroniK & “The Franchise” Shane Douglas

Terry Funk vs. ???

Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Alex Wright

Straight Outta Samoa vs. Sergeant A-WALL & Corporal Cajun

Helms & Moore vs. The Perfect Event

Edited August 6, 2004 by ADGray

[ADG]

World Championship Wresting THUNDER!

================================================================

WCW Thunder comes at you this Wednesday night from the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada! Snake eyes!

- CHAVO OPENS THE SHOW -

Thunder opens up with Chavo Guerrero Jr and his backup Straight Outta Samoa in the ring. Chavo has a microphone but the crowd are already chanting “REY! REY! REY! REY!” Chavo waits for them to finish, but they won’t.

Chavo Guerrero Jr: SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!

This doesn’t work either as the crowd just gets louder…..

Chavo Guerrero Jr: You wanna know what Rey Misterio is holmes? He’s a loser essé. He’s a loser and at Superbrawl all of you will find that out. Now I know that Misterio hasn’t accepted my challenge yet holmes, but it’s all very simple. Misterio wants to get his hands on me, but if he wants to do that, he gonna have to get past my main men here. OG Ekmo and Kimo! So Rey, I know you’re gonna accept my challenge holmes and you better have your VCR back at home taping this here tonight and start studying essé. Bring out the next lambs to slaughter holmes.

From the back come the opponents for S.O.S tonight. Sergeant A-WALL and Corporal Cajun of the Misfits in Action.

(73)

Kimo gained overness from this segment.

- TAG TEAM TERROR!......ER……YEAH! -

Straight Outta Samoa vs. Sergeant A-WALL & Corporal Cajun

We start the wrestling portion of the show with Straight Outta Samoa who of course have Chavo Guerrero Jr. at ringside. And tonight SOS are facing Sergeant A-WALL and Corporal Cajun who have Major Gunns with them.

We get our usual SOS squash here as OG Ekmo and Kimo beat the living snot out of A-WALL and Cajun with all sorts of power moves as Gunns just stands on the outside looking kinda pretty. Chavo though was playing it up perfectly, smiling from ear to ear and shouting into the camera that Misterio didn’t stand a chance. A-WALL did take a chance after a few minutes to begin NO SELLING the offence of the Samoans, but they retaliated by just upping the stiffness of their offence and soon A-WALL was too sore to really defy them anymore. Cajun though was co-operating with all OG and Kimo wanted to do. Not surprising really when you consider they have a collective weight of over 700 pounds. I’d bet even Goldberg would sell for them. They sure pack a whallop. In the end Ekmo and Kimo ended it with their usual combo attack for the 1-2-3! Kimo sure can fly.

Well it wasn’t enjoyable and Sergeant A-WALL was more than tedious, but it didn’t go very long. ¼*.

(60/53/50)

Winners: Straight Outta Samoa

Sergeant A-WALL lost overness from this match. Corporal Cajun lost overness from this match. Kimo gained overness from this match. O.G. Ekmo gained overness from this match. Sergeant A-WALL didn't really sell very much, which hurt the match rating.

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- TAG TEAM TURMOIL -

Helms & Moore vs. The Perfect Event

We continue the tag team theme following the break as Shane Helms and Shannon Moore who gave a great account of themselves at Sin face Chuck Palumbo and Shawn Stasiak, The Perfect Event.

These four brought something not unlike the feelings you get at a Linkin Park concert. You’re there so you’re pleased they’ve shown up but when you take a good look you realise all the imperfections they have. That was what it was like with this match as while on the surface everything seemed smooth for the most part, if you listened and watched closely you could see the mistakes made. The most prominent mistake was that throughout you could hear the four calling the match as they went and when by accident Helms lost his balance on the top rope and so a pre-planned spot was lost, the four seemed lost for a couple of minutes before regaining their composure. This destroyed the crowd as well as they had been getting into the match a lot, but when the momentum went so did the crowd. The four did recover the match nailing a couple of nice spots beautifully before Helms & Moore got the victory with a Nightmare On Helms Street to Stasiak for the 1-2-3!

Well mostly solid and for four young workers you can’t expect perfection. The crowd died nearer the end but that was also an accident. **

(76/64/63)

Winners: Helms and Moore

Chuck Palumbo lost overness from this match. Shawn Stasiak lost overness from this match. Shannon Moore gained overness from this match. Shane Helms gained overness from this match.

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- THE FUNKER GRACES US ALL WITH HIS PRESENCE -

Thunder comes back from commercial and the Funkin’ Conservatory has been set up in the ring. Terry Funk – the WCW Hardcore Champion - is standing inside it with a microphone.

Terry Funk: Two weeks, five men. For the last two weeks I have come out here and defended this title belt. For two weeks I have successfully defended this title. For two weeks some smartass son of a bitch has been royally pissing me off! I gotta lot of pent up anger I need to take out, so the rules are simple. You come out here, and try and take this title from me.

The entrance music of Ron and Don Harris hits and both men come through the curtain and head to the ring. Tenay wonders which brother has accepted the challenge………

(68)

- FUNK FIGHTS THROUGH -

Terry Funk vs. The Harris Boys

Evidently both brothers accepted the challenge as Terry Funk now faced off against BOTH The Harris Boys inside the Funkin’ Conservatory. One would have been bad enough but both? It’s enough to make you sick.

And it very nearly did as Funk tried in vain to get a watchable match out of the Harris twins and failed miserably. With the 2 on 1 advantage The Harris Boys had control early on, bringing two steel chairs into play early on. Funk took the offence for a couple of minutes before starting his comeback. Funk knew to look as strong as he could now, no selling a couple of chair shots before Funkin’ Up and going on a wild streak, dishing out chair shots of his own left, right and centre. The Harris’ came back with some double team moves, with one particularly nasty moment when they threw Funk into the cage head first. Funk though picked himself back up. We got the compulsory “lack of communication” spot between the Harris’ with Don kicking Ron in the head, and this allowed Funk to nail a DDT on Ron Harris on a chair for the 1-2-3 win in a quick 7 minute match.

Nothing to be said except…………DUD.

(55/55/48)

Winner and still WCW Hardcore Champion: Terry Funk

Terry Funk is losing overness because of his weak gimmick.

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- MISTERIO MAKES HIS INTENTIONS CLEAR -

We come back from commercial and “Mean” Gene Okerlund is backstage with Rey Misterio Jr. We can hear Alex Wright’s music playing so his match is obviously coming up after this interview.

“Mean” Gene Okerlund: WCW fans, I’m backstage here with Rey Misterio Jr. and Rey, following the events of the last few weeks I know and I’m sure these fans all know that you want to get your hands on Chavo Guerrero Jr. And then, on Monday night, Chavo Guerrero, he…….he offered you a chance as it were. A challenge. You versus Straight Outta Samoa, a 2 on 1 handicap match, at Superbrawl Revenge. Can we get your thoughts on the challenge?

Rey Misterio Jr: Well “Mean” Gene, I hate to admit it, but the power here is with Chavo Guerrero. He took out my buddies and he got backup Gene. But Chavo, you seem to believe this is about the WCW Cruiserweight Title, it isn’t about a title, it isn’t about 7 pounds of gold. This is deeper than that. This is about revenge. What you did to my friends I will never forgive you for. You seem to believe holmes, that I want your title. I don’t. I want your blood. Your blood, for what you did to Kidman and Konnan. Chavo, I know you essé. I know I have to earn my shot, not at the title, but at you. But when I do Chavo, you better pray for mercy.

Rey Misterio walks off as his music is starting. “Mean” Gene turns to the camera.

“Mean” Gene Okerlund: It’s Rey Misterio Jr. versus Alex Wright, coming right up. Mike, Gary back to you.

(72)

- MISTERIO GETS THE WIN BUT CHAVO LEAVES HIS MARK -

Rey Misterio vs. Alex Wright

We stumble along now with “Das WunderJobber” Alex Wright go one on one, mano a mano, with Rey Misterio Jr. This one should be good. You’re probably looking at match of the night here. It’s hard to believe that Alex Wright is still in his mid 20’s.

Once again it is the smaller, quicker guys that bring the goods to the table and the asses to the seats as Misterio and Wright were given 15 minutes to do with what they wish. Anyone else remember that WCW Playstation game with the little movies of the guys convincing you to pick them? I always picked Alex Wright. “I’m Alex Wright, the German!” That ruled. A lot of back and forth action as far as the match was concerned with both men getting in a fair amount of offence. Tenay and Cappetta actually talked about the happenings of the match for a few minutes before going back to hyping Goldberg vs. Animal later on. But they did mention the problems with Chavo which shows they do pay attention some of the time. As if by magic Chavo Guerrero then appeared to watch the match, joining Tenay and Cappetta on commentary, leading to a wonderful moment when Cappetta asked Chavo: “Did you just call me a house?” Oh the witty banter. Back in the ring Misterio had noticed the appearance of Chavo and no one was fooled by Chavo’s insistence he was out to “just watch.” Indeed his premise was a lot more sinister. Following the win for Misterio with the Flying Hurricanrana for the 1-2-3 Chavo made his way to the ring. Misterio watched him closely, when he should have been watching his back as Wright attacked looking for revenge. Wright shook hands with Chavo, accepted a $20 note and left. Misterio got back up, only to be laid out with the belt. Chavo gets one up on Misterio.

A good match. Crowd could have been better but I don’t know, there’s something about tonight which seems off and so everything isn’t clicking. **

(77/69/65)

Winner: Rey Misterio Jr.

- “THE FRANCHISE” MAKES HIS THOUGHTS CLEAR…..KRONIK JUST GRUNT -

Backstage we go again to “Mean” Gene Okerlund and he has with him “The Franchise” Shane Douglas and KroniK. They’ll no doubt be on hype duty for the next match.

“Mean” Gene Okerlund: I’m “Mean” Gene Okerlund, backstage again and this time I’m joined by the #1 contender for the United States Championship “The Franchise” Shane Douglas and the #1 contenders for the WCW Tag Team Championships, KroniK.

“The Franchise” Shane Douglas: What is it about little men that they get drawn to me? On Monday it was that runt Cappetta and tonight you? Get out of here Okerlund!

Douglas grabs the microphone and pushes Okerlund away as KroniK laugh in the background.

“The Franchise” Shane Douglas: Tonight, “The Franchise” teams with the best tag team in the world today. The tag team that will take the WCW Tag Titles from The InSiders at Superbrawl. But that is their fight. Not mine. My fight, my quarrel is with you Rection. Hugh…..G……Rection. God I bet you were beat up as a kid huh? I bet you were and at Superbrawl I’ll bring back those painful memories on more time, when I beat you for that title. I’m on a quest Rection, you’re in my way. “The Franchise” deserves more than he’s getting, and step one is that US Championship. It’s coming now Rection, I get you in the ring. You might not even make it to Superbrawl.

(76)

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- SIX MAN MELEE IN VEGAS! -

The InSiders & General Rection vs. KroniK & “The Franchise” Shane Douglas

We’re approaching the end of the evening but before we get to the main event we have the SEMI MAIN EVENT~! Obviously something requested by Kevin Nash to make it seem important. For this match Nash is teaming with Diamond Dallas Page and General Rection against KroniK and “The Franchise” Shane Douglas. “Strap yourselves in folks” says Tenay. I on the other hand am telling you to get out the car.

Hey you listened to me! I’m so happy! Ahem. Yes well thank you for sticking with me but you’ll wish you didn’t as we bear witness to the spectacle that is this match. We started well enough, Douglas and Page got the crowd excited with Douglas using cheap tactics to stay in control, but as soon as the tag was made to Clarke things started to go downhill. Clarke tried to keep the standard up but couldn’t and when Page made the tag to Nash things really took a turn for the worse. We were treated to a lot of generic brawling after that, interspersed with some small sparks of technical wrestling from Douglas, but this was limited to a snapmare and a Boston Crab before Nash once again demanded complete control of the match. We continued stumbling along for a few minutes before we got to the obligatory pier six brawl with bodies flying everywhere and Tenay exclaiming “It’s a melee in Vegas!” With things in shambles Clarke managed to down Rection and slide a tag belt into the ring. This was then used by Adams on Page for the 1-2-3 pinfall victory.

Stuttered along after the first tag and never regained it’s momentum, even when Douglas and Page were the legal men again. ¾ *

(57/71/59)

Winners: “The Franchise” Shane Douglas & KroniK

- HEY WHAT DO YOU KNOW! GOLDBERG CAN WALK! -

Just before we head to commercial we go backstage to Goldberg’s locker room. We know it’s Goldberg’s because it has a “GOLDBERG” sticker on it. There are the usual security personnel and arena workers hanging about. One looks at his watch, saunters over to the door and knocks on it.

Backstage Worker: It’s time……..

We hear some banging and the door opens as we fade to commercial. Anyone else wish just once they’d say “It’s time” and he’d have to say “Just a minute” and we hear a toilet flushing? That’d rock.

(83)

**COMMERCIAL BREAK**

- WCW SURE CAN REPEL THOSE VIEWERS CAN’T THEY? -

Goldberg vs. Road Warrior Animal

We wrap the night up with the main event, and what a main event we have for you tonight. Actually I’m going to warn you now. CHANGE CHANNELS! Change it to anything. Honestly even FOX must have something better than Goldberg versus Road Warrior Animal.

If you’re still here then you’re now feeling a deep regret of not changing channels as Goldberg and Animal try to put on an entertaining match and fail miserably. The two tried to go old school with a slow paced psychology driven match, only Goldberg is shite at all things wrestling and Animal was exhausted after 4 minutes. All this together doesn’t add up to an entertaining wrestling match as you can imagine and the 5,500 of the 5,511 in attendance weren’t entertained in the slightest – the other 11 were those people you see at poorly attended WCW shows trying to start Mexican waves and “GOLDBERG” chants. With Animal too tired to care and just looking to go to bed, Goldberg took command of the match, nailed a few basic bodyslams and clotheslines before he did his usual squash routine of Spinebuster, Spear, ROOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAARRRRRR, stanp, stamp, stamp and a Jackhammer for the 1-2-3. We go off the air with Goldberg holding 2 fingers into the air. Yes, yes Bill. 2 down, 4 to go.

The WCW main event scene is shocking. Goldberg yes, but Animal? No. Rick Steiner? No. Next we’ve got Bagwell and Luger. They shouldn’t be there either. ¼*, Take it or leave it.

(59/68/58)

Overall Show Rating: 64%

We got a 4.94 rating for 'Thunder'!

The attendance level was 5511 people.

We made $137775 from ticket sales.

Edited August 7, 2004 by ADGray

[ClaRK! Kent]

Horribly conceived, excellently written - it's a recap of WCW in 2001! I'm loving this diary, and the way that you can get away with some heinous booking by simply being a smark in your match reports. Scott Keith would be proud of you, my man.

RK!

[Karizma]

Only a few mistakes here and there I see, Goldberg wasn't allowed to lose a match otherwise he'd be fired, whether it be by DQ or not, set by Vince Russo, and Lugar & Buff were out for him, and Bruce was brung in because he trianed Goldberg, etc, and it was Buff & Luger Vs. Goldberg & Bruce at Superbrawl, if I remember.

At the time the only people Nash & Page were willing to job to were Any of the Thrillaz, as they loved them, and Kronik were trying to be the APA at the same time.

Around this time Rey Mysterio was interestingly enough going after the CWeight title, too, I'm sure of it.(Or was this the month of the Cruiser Tag Titles)And for Sin, you shoulda teamed Sanders with the other NBT, Reno, instead of Kwee Wee, but overall I've found this enjoyable, except for the lack of Noble & Courageous, and Norman Smiley was a bitch in the hardcore division around now, and never did the Norman Conquest, from what I remember.He did have Ralphus, however.

[ADG]

Booker’s Thoughts Memo – Jan 15th to Jan 22nd.

Another week gone and it’s another week with a lot to cover so let’s get to it right now.

CRITICISMS

There has been some talk that we were wrong to scrap all our angles and start again on New Year’s Day. This has been followed up with comments from some that our current angles aren’t any better. Well I don’t see Russo about. I don’t see Flair in his boxers and I don’t see one of our champions riding around on a wooden pony. What I do see is carefully constructed angles which are progressing.

NEW ARRIVALS

I would extend my thanks to everyone in the company for their warm welcoming of O.G Ekmo and Kimo to the WCW family. By now no doubt you’ve all heard the identity Funk stalker. I had been trying to keep it secret and for the purpose of safety I’m not going to print it here. Just make him feel welcome.

FINANCIAL SITUATION

Well we’re three weeks into 2001 and so far we’re doing fine. We look to be on course to make a small profit this month, early guesses are in the region of $50,000. This is of course only if we pull in strong ratings for Nitro and Thunder next week. Which brings me onto……

TV RATINGS

While Nitro is still struggling along making small gains every week, Thunder has exploded, raising more than half a point in the ratings in only three weeks. Not sure why this is yet but I got the guys in market research working on it. Really I have no clue why the ratings are rising.

CONTRACTS

The situation with contracts are simple. If you’re contract is near expiration, go up north, go to the unemployment office or re-sign at a lot less money. Our biggest earners have still got at least 2 years to run on their contracts but they have taken pay cuts. (Most of them anyway) If your contract is coming up on renewal time, come and see me.

VARIOUS OTHER NOTES

Superbrawl Revenge: You might have noticed how we’ve tried to set up matches for Superbrawl now. The buy rate for Sin was shocking given we only had 2 weeks build up to it. With Superbrawl build up in full swing now, we expect the buy rate to be higher. Especially given the draw of Goldberg vs. Steiner and the Time Crisis match. Speaking of which……

Time Crisis Match: As far as I can see all the little kinks have been worked out. There has been some debate over whether the TC should be falls count anywhere. We’ve not settled on anything for that yet, but it is an option. And before anyone asks, we don’t know who we’ll put over yet.

Goldberg vs. Steiner: I know this was a shock to many of you as there hadn’t been any discussion about it before, but it was a spur of the moment decision, one which could seriously help us. Same as the TC, we don’t know who’ll go over.

Goldberg: On a slightly related note I would like to thank Bill for his acceptance to waive his creative control clause for the foreseeable future. This is a big help to the company and joins others such as Ric, DDP and Steiner in waiving their clauses. As of now only one person on the roster us still utilising their creative control.

New Japan Pro Wrestling: As you know, WCW and NJPW have had a working relationship for a few years now. While it has seemingly disappeared I would like you all to know I am now in contact with Antonio Inoki over a few small matters. I’ll tell you more if you need to know it.

[ADG]

WCW MONDAY NITRO PREVIEW

We are getting ever closer to Superbrawl Revenge on February 11th and tonight on WCW Monday Nitro we have another huge show for you! Goldberg looks to continue his run against The Magnificent Seven when he locks horns with Lex Luger in our main event and hopes to ban Luger from ringside at Superbrawl Revenge!

Also tonight Larry Zbysko will be in the house and watching closely as all the great WCW Superstars look to impress and earn a spot in the “Time Crisis” match. With that in mind, tonight we have another festival of wrestling for you! It is an unofficial #1 Contender night as alongside Goldberg we’ll see KroniK and “The Franchise” Shane Douglas in action.

We signed another match for Superbrawl Revenge on Thunder when Rey Misterio agreed to a 2 vs. 1 handicap match against Straight Outta Samoa. Tonight S.O.S will be at ringside to scout their opponent at Superbrawl as he goes one on one with Bam Bam Bigelow.

The mind games being played on Terry Funk continue as The Funker warms up for what has been promised will be the “fight of his life”. With Funk obviously not fully fit mentally following these games he’s vulnerable. Will the mystery stalker finally reveal himself tonight? Funk came through both Harris Brothers on Thunder to retain his WCW Hardcore Championship and tonight he has a night off, but you know that doesn’t mean he won’t be ready!

With so many wanting to impress, it comes as no surprise all WCW Superstars want to perform on TV, and tonight 8 men will get their chance in two Four Way Dances.

- Confirmed Matches -

Goldberg vs. Lex Luger

KroniK vs. Dustin & Dusty Rhodes

“The Franchise” Shane Douglas vs. Big Vito

Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Bam Bam Bigelow

Chris Kanyon vs. Wayne DeBruce vs. David Flair vs. Norman Smiley

The Cat vs. MI Smooth vs. Brian Knobbs vs. Mike Awesome

[fineintent]

Goldberg vs Rick Steiner.

Goldberg vs Animal.

Goldberg vs Luger.

WCW is alive again...!

Keep up the good/bad work. I like the idea of a slow evolution rather than a drastic revolution approach.

[TGC]

Two things brought me into The Dome to read some more. They were JHS and her WCW 1993 Diary, and the new syco diary featuring Terry Funk. However upon my visits back I noticed this new diary by yourself, so I scanned this a few days ago and found myself intrigued. I read it in more depth tonight and found myself enjoying it.

Don't misunderstand me and think that this diary is good, because quite frankly it is complete shit, but that is to be expectd at this point and time. However I am enjoying the hell out of the shit that you are providing. I think the meetings may be among my favorite parts, as your issues with Nash and now Goldberg are most enjoyable to read.

Good luck, and here's hoping we get to see Goldberg vs. Nash for the World Title very soon.

TGC