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World Championship Wrestling - 1989

The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/04/10 at 06:01:06



January

On the business side, 1989 began with major news that was only known to wrestling insiders that Jim Crockett Promotions had been purchased by media mogul Ted Turner. For years, TBS had aired NWA wrestling. Ted Turner embraced the company' focus on athleticism over the three ring circus atmosphere of their competitor. The company was renamed to World Championship Wrestling. Despite the emphasis on the name World Championship Wrestling, Ted Turner made it clear that they would continue their partnership with the National Wrestling Alliance, in large part due to the history and prestiege of the NWA World Heavyweight Title.

On the wrestling end of things, the year began off the heels of WCW's marquee event, Starrcade, where Ric Flair successfully defended his NWA World Heavyweight Championship against Lex Luger. Ric Flair vowed that Lex Luger would never receive another title shot as long as he was the champion. Unfortunately for Ric Flair, there was another challenge looming on the horizon from a former rival. On an episode of NWA World Championship Wrestling, Eddie Gilbert challenged Ric Flair and the NWA United States Heavyweight Champion Barry Windham to a tag team match for the following week. The Horsemen duo wondered who his tag team partner was going to be but Eddie Gilbert said it would be a huge surprise. This was a surprise that shocked Ric Flair as none other than Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat emerged as Eddie Gilbert's tag team partner. The match ended with Ricky Steamboat pinning the NWA World Heavyweight Champion Ric Flair and quickly becoming a threat to his title.

February

The month started with Clash of the Champions V on February 5th. The big highlight of the show again focused around Ricky Steamboat and Ric Flair. The segment put over the big differences in lifestyles between the two but also put over their upcoming NWA World Heavyweight Title match at the Chi-Town Rumble pay per view. The segment ended with Ric Flair's high priced suit torn to shreds by Ricky Steamboat.

At the Chi-Town Rumble pay per view on February 20th, history was made as three titles changed hands. Mike Rotundo regained the NWA World Television Title, Lex Luger became a two time NWA United States Heavyweight Champion as he defeated former friend Barry Windham, and last but certainly not least, Ricky Steamboat defeated Ric Flair to win his first NWA World Heavyweight Championship. Also, The Midnight Express, managed by Jim Cornette, finally rid themselves of The Original Midnight Express and Paul E. Dangerously as they defeated their rivals to make them leave World Championship Wrestling.

March

The Great Muta, managed by Gary Hart, made his debut in World Championship Wrestling. Gary Hart introduced him as the son of The Great Kabuki, who Hart also had managed years earlier. It became apparent early on that The Great Muta brought a completely different and unique wrestling style that set him apart from the rest of the competition. With the Moonsault as his finishing move, The Great Muta would begin his undefeated streak.

April

Clash of the Champions VI was held in New Orleans, Louisiana on April 2nd. It featured a shocking title change as The Road Warriors lost the NWA World Tag Team Titles to The Varsity Club team of Mike Rotunda and Steve "Dr. Death" Williams. The main event of the card featured Ricky Steamboat successfully defending the NWA World Heavyweight Championship against Ric Flair in a 2 out of 3 Falls Match, winning 2 falls to 1. The match was not without controversy as videotape seemed to prove that the Ric Flair's leg was under the rope during Steamboat's second pinfall.

As a result of the controversial finish, Ric Flair hired a lawyer and threatened to sue World Championship Wrestling if he did not receive another title shot. Ricky Steamboat, being a man of honor, recognized that their match did not end in a clear winner. As a result, Ricky Steamboat granted Ric Flair another title shot but made it clear it would be his last as there were more challengers on the horizon he wanted to compete against. That match would be held at WCW's next pay per view, WrestleWar in Nashville on May 7th.

In other news, Sting defeated Mike Rotundo to win the NWA World Television Title. This was Sting's first championship in World Championship Wrestling. Also, Michael Hayes turned his back on Lex Luger to set up a NWA United States Heavyweight Championship match at WrestleWar.

May

WrestleWar proved to be a defining moment that set the stage for the rest of 1989. Michael Hayes shocked the wrestling world as he defeated Lex Luger to win the NWA United States Heavyweight Championship. Michael Hayes' title reign would prove to be short as Lex Luger regained the title a few weeks later, along with a noticeable change in attitude. The Road Warriors defeated The Varsity Club by DQ but were unable to regain the titles as a result. Due to their actions, The Varsity Club were stripped of the NWA World Tag Team Titles and a tournament was announced to determine new champions going forward. The main event featured Ric Flair regaining the NWA World Heavyweight Title for the sixth time in one of the greatest matches ever against Ricky Steamboat. Ric Flair shook hands with Ricky Steamboat and put over their trilogy of matches as being the best the sport has ever seen.

Afterwards as Jim Ross was trying to conduct an interview with the new champion, Terry Funk, who was one of three judges at ringside in case the match went to a draw, congratulated Ric Flair but quickly changed the tone of the conversation to indicate that he wanted the first title shot. Ric Flair politely refused and noted that he's obligated to defend the title against WCW's Top 10 and Terry Funk has been too busy in Hollywood to crack the top 10. Terry Funk, believing his integrity was challenged, attacked Ric Flair and would end up putting him through a table with a piledriver. Ric Flair, on the heels of such a great moment, laid on the ground with a neck injury.

In other news, Scott Steiner, the brother of "The Dogfaced Gremlin" Rick Steiner, made his debut to form The Steiner Brothers. Also, for unknown reasons, the NWA United States Tag Team Titles were stripped of Eddie Gilbert and Rick Steiner.

June

It was announced that Ric Flair would be out of action for a considerable amount of time due to his neck injury. Due to his injury being the result of an unprovoked attack by a then unsanctioned member of the roster, WCW extended the usual rule about title defenses every 30 days to 60 days to accomodate Ric Flair should he attempt to make a comeback and defend the title.

Terry Funk became a regular member of the WCW roster and quickly showed how unorthodox he was. At every opportunity, he reminded everyone what he did to Ric Flair and demanded a shot at the NWA World Heavyweight Title.

Brian Pillman, billed as "Flyin' Brian," made his debut in WCW and wowed the audiences with his high flying, athletic style.

Lex Luger continued to show his attitude change by disagreeing with WCW's decision to extend Ric Flair's title defense window. He also put over that in his eyes, as the NWA United States Heavyweight Champion, he should be the automatic number one contender.

July

At the beginning of the month, Ric Flair held a press conference to announce that he would be ready to return to the ring at The Great American Bash pay per view on July 23rd. He also urged World Championship Wrestling to sign him to a match against Terry Funk with the NWA World Heavyweight Title on the line. They ultimately gave Ric Flair what he wanted and the match was officially signed for The Great American Bash in Baltimore.

On July 14th, Clash of the Champions VII was held in Fayetteville, North Carolina on the base of Ft. Bragg. The NWA World Tag Team Titles were won by The Fabulous Freebirds team of Michael Hayes and Jimmy Garvin, as they defeated The Midnight Express in the finals of the tournament. In the main event, Ricky Steamboat and Terry Funk fought for the right to become the number one contender to the NWA World Heavyweight Title. The match ended in a DQ when Terry Funk hit Ricky Steamboat with a microphone. Terry Funk continued to assault Ricky Steamboat until Lex Luger chased him out of the ring with a chair. After explaining his controversial comments over the past several weeks as being about "pride", Lex Luger blindsided Ricky Steamboat with a vicious clothesline. Lex Luger hit him with the steel chair and proceeded to put him the Torture Rack. Afterwards, Lex Luger made a comment that explained his actions, "there lays your number one contender."

As a result, Ricky Steamboat demanded a no disqualification match against Lex Luger. However, Lex Luger balked at Steamboat's demands but the match was signed for The Great American Bash. Lex Luger insinuated that he would not wrestle Ricky Steamboat if the match was held with no disqualification.

The Great Muta continued his impressive run through World Championship Wrestling. His combination of high flying moves and martial arts skills overwhelmed the competition. The Great Muta's manager, Gary Hart, mocked Sting as a paper champion and insisted The Great Muta could easily defeat him. Sting decided to test that theory out and he issued the challenge to The Great Muta. The match was signed for The Great American Bash with the NWA World Television Title on the line.

The Great American Bash was held on July 23rd and was quickly described as the greatest wrestling card in American history by Pro Wrestling Illustrated. Here were the results:

The Skyscrapers (Sid Vicious and Dan Spivey) won a "King of the Ring" Battle Royal
Brian Pillman defeated Bill Irwin
The Skyscrapers beat The Dynamic Dudes
Jim Cornette defeated Paul E. Dangerously in a Tuxedo Match
The Steiner Brothers defeated Kevin Sullivan and Mike Rotunda
Sting and The Great Muta fought to a no decision. The ending was a double pin and The Great Muta stole the belt afterwards, thinking in his mind that he was the champion.
Lex Luger defeated Ricky Steamboat by DQ. Before the match, Lex Luger threatened to walk out if the No DQ stipulation was kept. Ricky Steamboat relented and gave in to Lex Luger's demand. Ricky Steamboat snapped and hit Lex Luger with a chair repeatedly to earn the DQ.
In a War Games match, the team of The Road Warriors, The Midnight Express and Steve Williams defeated The Samoan Swat Team and The Fabulous Freebirds
In the main event, Ric Flair defeated Terry Funk to retain the NWA World Heavyweight Title. After the match, Terry Funk and The Great Muta began a beat down of Ric Flair until Sting ran down to make the save. What ensued was a brawl throughout the arena.

It was announced that the NWA World Television Title would be vacated due to the double pin ending in Sting and Great Muta's match.

August

In an amazing turn of events from a year earlier, Sting and Ric Flair put the past behind them and formed an alliance to compete against Terry Funk and Gary Hart.

It was also announced that Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, upon rumors that he would be leaving World Championship Wrestling, had actually re-signed with the company. Besides competiting for World Championship Wrestling, Ricky Steamboat's biggest reason for staying with WCW was to teach Lex Luger a lesson in respect and take the NWA United States Heavyweight Title. Unfortunately, during Ricky Steamboat's contract signing, Lex Luger viciously attacked him, focusing on Steamboat's right ankle. This put Ricky Steamboat on the shelf going into September.

In late August, Nick Bockwinkel was signed to become WCW's Commissioner. This coincided with WCW's Saturday night program being renamed WCW Saturday Nitro. The new Saturday show would be held in Atlanta at the Center Stage Theater.

With the greater part of 1989 being a turning point for the company, what would the rest of 1989 hold for World Championship Wrestling?
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/04/10 at 06:02:41

WCW Roster

Faces:
Animal (w/Paul Ellering)
Bobby Eaton (w/Jim Cornette)
Eddie Gilbert
Hawk (w/Paul Ellering)
Johnny Ace
Ric Flair
Rick Steiner
Ron Simmons
Scott Steiner
Shane Douglas
Stan Lane (w/Jim Cornette)
Steve Williams
Sting
Tommy Rich

Heels:
Butch Reed
Dan Spivey (w/Teddy Long)
Fatu (w/Paul E. Dangerously)
Great Muta (w/Gary Hart)
Jacko Victory
Jimmy Garvin
Kevin Sullivan
Lex Luger
Michael Hayes
Mike Rotunda
Rip Morgan
Samu (w/Paul E. Dangerously)
Sid Vicious (w/Teddy Long)
Terry Funk (w/Gary Hart)

TAG TEAMS
The Road Warriors
The Midnight Express
The Dynamic Dudes
The Steiner Brothers
The Skyscrapers
The New Zealand Militia
The Fabulous Freebirds
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/04/10 at 06:03:44

WCW Title History - 1989

NWA World Heavyweight Championship

Ricky Steamboat - February 20, 1989 - Chicago, IL - Chi-Town Rumble PPV

Ric Flair - May 7, 1989 - Nashville, TN - WrestleWar PPV

NWA United States Heavyweight Championship

Lex Luger (2) - February 20, 1989 - Chicago, IL - Chi-Town Rumble

Michael Hayes - May 7, 1989 - Nashville, TN - WrestleWar PPV

Lex Luger (3) - May 22, 1989 - Bluefield, WV - Live Event

NWA World Television Championship

Mike Rotunda - February 20, 1989 - Chicago, IL - Chi-Town Rumble

Sting - March 31, 1989 - Atlanta, GA - Live Event

Title vacated after controversial finish between Sting and The Great Muta at The Great American Bash on July 23, 1989.

The Great Muta - September 2, 1989 - Atlanta, GA - WCW Saturday Nitro

NWA World Tag Team Championship

The Varsity Club - April 2, 1989 - New Orleans, LA - Clash of the Champions VI

Titles vacated on May 7, 1989 after misconduct in their title defense.

The Fabulous Freebirds - June 14, 1989 - Clash of the Champions VII
*Michael Hayes and Jimmy Garvin won the vacated titles in the tournament final.

NWA United States Tag Team Championship

Eddie Gilbert and Rick Steiner - February 28, 1989 - Columbia, SC - Live Event

Title vacated in May 1989.
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/04/10 at 06:16:48

WCW Saturday Nitro
Date: September 2, 1989
Location: Atlanta, GA - Center Stage Arena

Interview:
The show began with Gary Hart introducing his prized possession, The Great Muta, to the ring. Gary Hart stated that the uncertainty involving the NWA World Television Title had gone on long enough. He demanded that The Great Muta be awarded what is his rightfully his. This brought out Nick Bockwinkel, who was announced as the WCW Commissioner last week. Nick Bockwinkel agreed with Gary Hart that the situation involving the NWA World TV Title needed some clarity and a resolution. Much to Gary Hart's chagrin, the title will not be awarded to either Sting or The Great Muta. It'll be won in a match tonight pitting the two against each other in the main event. Sting walked out and howled to the audience and told The Great Muta he'll see him in the ring later on.

The Steiner Brothers (Rick Steiner and Scott Steiner) defeated New Zealand Militia (Jacko Victory and Rip Morgan) when R. Steiner pinned Victory with the Steiner Bulldog in 0:05:14.
Rating: *

Jacko Victory and Rip Morgan held an early advantage but The Steiner Brothers quickly recovered to take control. After the match, the NWA World Tag Team Champions attacked The Steiner Brothers but the Steiners were able to overcome the sneak attack and clotheslined Michael Hayes and Jimmy Garvin out of the ring. Nick Bockwinkel came out to make an announcement that The Fabulous Freebirds will defend their titles against The Steiner Brothers at Clash of the Champions VIII!

Interview:
Backstage, Missy Hyatt interviewed NWA World Heavyweight Champion Ric Flair. He talked about the alliance he formed with Sting. He put over the fact that despite all the bad things he's done in the past, Sting still came to his aide at The Great American Bash when it looked like Terry Funk and The Great Muta were aiming to end his career. Tonight, Ric Flair vowed to watch Sting's back to ensure he becomes the NWA World Television Champion and to keep him at 100% for the Clash of the Champions tag team match against The Great Muta and Terry Funk.

Brian Pillman pinned Agent Steel with the Air Pillman in 0:03:16.
Rating: **

During the match, Brian Pillman cut an insert promo discussing his match at Clash of the Champions VIII against Norman the Lunatic. Brian Pillman acknowledged that Norman was big and bad but said that the bigger they are, the harder they fall.

The Samoan Swat Team (Samu and Fatu) defeated George South and Lee Scott when Samu pinned L. Scott with the Flying Bodypress in 0:04:06.
Rating: ** 1/2

Paul E. Dangerously's team wrestled this match with their faces painted like The Road Warriors. They demolished their opponents like Animal and Hawk as well. Afterwards, Paul E. Dangerously warned The Road Warriors that they will be made obsolete at Clash of the Champions by The Samoan Swat Team.

Interview:
A promo was shown hyping the debut of "The Z-Man" Tom Zenk to World Championship Wrestling.

Match for the vacant NWA World Television Title:
Great Muta pinned Sting with the Moonsault in 0:24:19.
Rating: **** 1/2
(Great Muta won the NWA World Television Title.)
[Gary Hart interfered against Sting.]

In the first main event of the revamped WCW Saturday Nitro, the fans witnessed another classic between rivals Sting and The Great Muta. At stake to the winner was the right to be called NWA World Television Champion. The match had numerous attempts at outside interference by Gary Hary but each time it was thwarted by the Stinger. However, Sting could not avoid the green mist, which lead to The Great Muta hitting the Moonsault for the victory and the NWA World Television Championship.

After the match, Terry Funk ran down to the ring and joined The Great Muta in beating down Sting. Terry Funk had his branding iron with him and repeatedly struck Sting with it. The crowd were on their feet as Ric Flair ran down to the ring with a steel chair to make the save. The Great Muta and Terry Funk quickly exited the ring but not before Ric Flair connected with a chairshot to Terry Funk's back. Ric Flair checked on Sting and then asked for a microphone. Ric Flair said that he's had enough of the outside interferences. It's time that they settle their issues inside a structure that will prevent Gary Hart from playing a role in the outcome, a steel cage! Nitro goes off the air with Terry Funk, The Great Muta and Gary Hart in disarray and anxiety over the challenge.

Card rating: ***


Match observations:

Current card for WCW Clash of the Champions VIII: Fall Brawl

MAIN EVENT
Ric Flair and Sting vs. Terry Funk and The Great Muta

NWA United States Heavyweight Title Match:
Lex Luger (c) vs. Tommy Rich

NWA World Tag Team Title Match:
The Fabulous Freebirds (c) vs. The Steiner Brothers

Brian Pillman vs. Norman the Lunatic

The Road Warriors vs. The Samoan Swat Team
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/04/10 at 06:27:30

WCW Main Event
Date: September 3, 1989
Location: Greensboro, NC

Tommy Rich pinned Butch Reed after a flying forearm in 0:09:00.
Rating: *

One of the comeback stories of 1989, besides the return of Ricky Steamboat earlier in the year, has to be the success of Tommy Rich's comeback. The former NWA World Heavyweight Champion many considered to be done has come back to take the WCW by surprise and earn a NWA United States Heavyweight Title shot against Lex Luger at Clash of the Champions. The feel good story of "Wildfire" Tommy Rich continued tonight as he defeated Butch Reed.

After the match, Missy Hyatt tried to get a few words with Tommy Rich when he was suddenly attacked by Lex Luger. He rammed Tommy Rich into the steel guard railing and repeatedly kicked him in the mid-section. Lex Luger grabbed the microphone from Missy Hyatt and warned Tommy Rich that he will suffer the same fate at the Clash of the Champions that Ricky Steamboat encountered in August. He'll be taken out of the sport once and for all!

Interview:
The Steiner Brothers talked about their first title shot at the NWA World Tag Team Championship when they face The Fabulous Freebirds at the Clash of the Champions. Scott Steiner also told brother Rick that he doesn't have a good feeling about Rick's girlfriend Robin Greene. Rick waved him off and told him to mind his own business.

Norman the Lunatic pinned Joe Cruz with the Big Splash in 0:03:07.
Rating: 3/4*

Teddy Long's client from the mental ward, Norman the Lunatic, made short work of Joe Cruz. It also appeared that Teddy Long wanted to send a message to the young upstart Brian Pillman, as he had Norman hit not one but two splashes from the top rope before going for the pin.

Interview:
Missy Hyatt was backstage with Jim Cornette and The Dynamic Dudes. Jim Cornette explained that he was merely an advisor to The Dynamic Dudes and not their manager. He believes that there is something special with the Dynamic Dudes but that his heart is still with The Midnight Express as their manager. Shane Douglas thanked Jim Cornette for his wisdom and tonight, the things they've learned will help them defeat The Varsity Club.

Terry Funk made Stan Lane submit to the Spinning Toe Hold in 0:09:13.
Rating: ** 1/2

Despite his comments from the segment before, Jim Cornette was nowhere to be found during this match. Jim Ross played up the fact that Stan Lane was trained by Ric Flair and considered him his protege. This fact must've not been lost on Terry Funk as he was relentness in his brawling with the sweet one. Terry Funk continued to maul Stan Lane in between short bouts of offense from Lane. Funk finished the match by making Stan Lane submit to the Spinning Toe Hold.

After the match, Terry Funk wasn't satisfied with winning the match. He brought a chair into the ring and set Stan Lane up for the piledriver. His tag team partner Bobby Eaton ran down to the ring to make the save, hitting Terry Funk with lefts and rights. The Great Muta ran to the ring and surprised Eaton with the green mist to the eyes. Terry Funk and The Great Muta were ushered out of the ring by WCW Security.

The Dynamic Dudes (Johnny Ace and Shane Douglas) defeated The Varsity Club (Mike Rotunda and Steve Williams) when Ace pinned S. Williams after a small package in 0:11:04.
Rating: * 3/4

For several weeks, tension had been brewing in The Varsity Club. The former NWA World Tag Team Champions were on a losing streak which Mike Rotunda was seemingly blaming on "Dr. Death" Steve Williams with sarcastic remarks on past WCW TV shows. It all came to a head tonight. However, during the course of this match, it appeared The Varsity Club was on the same page as they worked as a finely tune unit against The Dynamic Dudes, who were being advised by Jim Cornette. Things would turn sour between Williams and Rotunda after Johnny Ace was able to counter out of an Oklahoma Stampede attempt by Williams into a small package for the victory.

After the match, Mike Rotunda got on the microphone and said that the ending of the match proved Steve Williams was not only the weakest link but a loser. Mike Rotunda insisted that for now on, Williams will listen to orders because Rotunda is now the captain of the team. Rotunda punctuated that with a shove. As Mike Rotunda had his back to Steve Williams, he was met with a hard charging tackle! Dr. Death picked Mike Rotunda up and hit the Oklahoma Stampede! The crowd cheered Dr. Death as the show ended.


Card rating: * 3/4
King_Of_Old_SchoolPosted on 04/06/10 at 11:37:44

Great circuit, looking forward to see how it progresses.
LillaThrillaPosted on 04/07/10 at 05:18:03

"Saturday Nitro"?  Not a fan of "WCW Saturday Night"?  And if the circuit makes it to 1995 what will you call the Monday night show?

Seems like someone is doing writeups in the style of Peter's WWF '94 circuit. Not that I'm complaining - it's a good and effective style.

Off to a good start & looking forward to more!  
Drunken FoolPosted on 04/07/10 at 22:44:24

Oh my god. I've been looking for exports of Joe Cruz and George South forever, where did you get them or did you make them yourself?
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/08/10 at 06:22:48

On 04/07/10 at 05:18:03, LillaThrilla wrote:"Saturday Nitro"? Not a fan of "WCW Saturday Night"? And if the circuit makes it to 1995 what will you call the Monday night show?

Seems like someone is doing writeups in the style of Peter's WWF '94 circuit. Not that I'm complaining - it's a good and effective style.

Off to a good start & looking forward to more!
I did the style before Peter with my ECW circuit and I'm sure someone did it before me too. It's much easier than writing word for word account of what happened in a fictitious match. It's very manageable, especially for a show based in the era of squashes.

It's not that I don't like WCW Saturday Night, I'm just taking a different approach and tweaking it. If it makes it to 1995, I'd likely rename it WCW Monday Nitro. That would mean I'd book 6 years of this circuit...Highly ambitious and unlikely but thanks for the comments. :-)
fwarocPosted on 04/10/10 at 18:45:10

On 04/07/10 at 22:44:24, Drunken Fool wrote:Oh my god. I've been looking for exports of Joe Cruz and George South forever, where did you get them or did you make them yourself?
For George South, all you got to do is copy these lines into any match result:

Samu locks in a side headlock on George South.
Tommy Young asks George South if he wants to give up.
George South says "I'm thinking about it."

Great start to the fed.  As far as borrowing from WWF 1994?  Nah, he wouldn't do that....say...look!  Is that a giant squirrel with the head of Bushwacker Luke over there?

(fwaroc steals some ideas and heads off to his own fed)
Snabbit888Posted on 04/10/10 at 23:56:04

I don't think there's really any issue with "stealing" an idea.  If a format looks good and works, I don't think anyone in this small community is going to get pissed about it.  I've borrowed from people, and I know people have borrowed from me.  It's no big deal.  It's essentially wrestling fan fiction here - not life or death. :)  As long as the writing is good, who cares what the template is?  And this writing is good.
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/11/10 at 02:53:12

Yeah, it's an easy style that allows you to provide the right amount of detail without spending too much time. I used it with my ECW 2006 circuit and it allowed me to get through a lot of cards while still providing enough information so people knew what was going on.

As far as the jobber exports, there's no rocket science going on. I basically cloned another jobber and changed the name.
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/12/10 at 05:06:36

WCW Saturday Nitro
Date: September 9, 1989
Location: Atlanta, GA - Center Stage Theater

Steve Williams pinned Bob Emery with the Oklahoma Stampede in 0:03:53.
Rating: *

After the match, "Dr. Death" Steve Williams told Jim Ross that he was through with The Varsity Club. Steve Williams said that Mike Rotunda had become an overbearing jerk. Last week on WCW Main Event, Mike Rotunda found out the hard way what happens when someone questions his heart. At Clash of the Champions, Mike Rotunda will find out that while he might be the captain, Steve Williams is Dr. Death!

Interview:
After the commercial break, NWA United States Heavyweight Champion Lex Luger told Jim Ross that someone like Tommy Rich has no business being in the same building as him, much less the same ring. Nevertheless, Tommy Rich will get his title shot but he will be taken care of quickly. That's because Lex Luger is just hitting the peak of his game while Tommy Rich is over the hill and holding onto a fluke NWA World Heavyweight Title victory years ago to keep his name in the mix. Lex Luger also gave a shout out to Ricky Steamboat, hoping he has a speedy recovery, just so he can knock him back out of action.

The Road Warriors (Hawk and Animal) defeated Lee Scott and The Italian Stallion when Hawk pinned L. Scott after the Doomsday Device in 0:01:23.
Rating: **

After quickly demolishing their opponents, Animal and Hawk talked about how imitation is the surest sign of flattery. It's also the quickest way to get your butt kicked according to Hawk. Animal promised they will get their payback for the Samoan Swat Team screwing them out of regaining the NWA World Tag Team Titles.

Interview:
Another promo was shown highlighting the exciting action that The Z-Man, Tom Zenk will be bringing with him to World Championship Wrestling. Afterwards, Jim Ross announced to the television audience that Tom Zenk will make his WCW debut at Clash of the Champions.

Great Muta and Terry Funk defeated The Midnight Express (Stan Lane and Bobby Eaton) when Muta made Eaton submit to the Figure-Four Leglock in 0:14:47.
Rating: *** 1/4

This match was a result of last week's WCW Main Event match between Terry Funk and Stan Lane that saw The Great Muta spray green mist in the eyes of Bobby Eaton after he came to the aide of his tag team partner. Jim Cornette was again absent and not in the corner of The Midnight Express. As The Great Muta and Terry Funk prepare for their tag team match against Sting and Ric Flair, they worked well as a team which could provide problems for their opponents. The Midnight Express continue to be in disarray and suffered another loss as they try to figure out what is going on with their manager Jim Cornette.

Interview:
After the commercial break, Gary Hart, Terry Funk and The Great Muta were at the interview set with Jim Ross. The obvious question that Jim Ross presented to Gary Hart was whether he would accept Ric Flair's challenge for a steel cage match at the Clash of the Champions. Gary Hart said that Ric Flair made a big mistake because he is playing into their plan. They wanted Ric Flair and Sting in a cage all along because it would provide them the perfect opportunity to end their careers in such a ruthless structure. Tonight, Gary Hart promised Ric Flair a small preview of the pain coming his way when he steps into the ring with J-Tex Corporation's Dragonmaster.

Norman the Lunatic pinned George South with the Big Splash in 0:03:36.
Rating: 1/4*

During the match, Norman the Lunatic cut a pre-taped insert promo talking about Brian Pillman's high flying moves. Norman compared him to the flies he'd see in his room at the mental ward that annoyed him. Just like he squashed those flies, he promised to squash Brian Pillman.

Interview:
The NWA World Tag Team Champions, The Fabulous Freebirds, cut a promo that basically put The Steiner Brothers down as meatheads. Michael Hayes thought that Scott Steiner was too preoccupied worrying about Rick Steiner's squeeze Robin instead of concentrating on The Fabulous Freebirds. Jimmy Garvin predicted that'll be The Steiners downfall and tomorrow on WCW Main Event, everyone will get a preview as he'll strut and stroll all over Scott Steiner.

Sid Vicious pinned Eddie Gilbert with the Power Bomb in 0:05:13.
Rating: * 3/4

One half of The Skyscrapers, Sid Vicious had a tougher challenge this week as Eddie Gilbert stepped up to the plate. While Gilbert proved to be more competitive, Sid Vicious went on to overwhelm him with his power and brute strength. Even after pinning Eddie Gilbert with the Powerbomb, Sid Vicious was not satisfied as he nailed another.

Interview:
A skit was shown of Missy Hyatt shopping with Rick Steiner's girlfriend, Robin Greene. They were shopping for clothes for Clash of the Champions. Interestingly, Robin was shopping for clothes way over her means. When Missy Hyatt inquired about it, Robin flashed Rick Steiner's American Express and said that he was such a great boyfriend. She wanted to look her best for Clash of the Champions and despite Scott Steiner's opinion of her, she is looking forward to seeing The Steiner Brothers capture the NWA World Tag Team Titles.

Ric Flair defeated The Dragonmaster when Flair made The Dragonmaster submit to the Figure-Four Leglock in 0:09:46.
Rating: ** 3/4

The Dragonmaster maintained a level of competitiveness if only for the involvement of Gary Hart. At one point it appeared Gary Hart's involvement was going to cost Ric Flair the match as he threw brass knux into the ring. However, Ric Flair caught the knux and knocked Gary Hart off the apron with them. The Dragonmaster looked over the ropes at Gary Hart but should've paid attention to Ric Flair as he surprised him with a tackle to his left leg. Ric Flair worked on the leg some more and shouted this was Terry Funk as he applied the Figure Four Leglock. The Dragonmaster immediately submitted to the hold.

After the match, Ric Flair wasn't interested in mercy as he locked in the Figure Four even tighter. From out of the crowd, The Great Muta entered the ring and put the boots to Ric Flair to break the hold. Ric Flair and The Great Muta traded punches that gave way to Ric Flair hitting some hard hitting chops to the chest. Terry Funk ran down to the ring with his branding iron and hit Ric Flair's right knee with it. Ric Flair grabbed his leg in pain as Terry Funk looked to take out Ric Flair before the Clash of the Champions. This wasn't to be as Sting made the save. Sting was a house of fire in the ring as he single handily removed Gary Hart's J-Tex Corporation out of the ring and away from Ric Flair.


Card rating: **


Match observations:

Clash of the Champions VIII - Fall Brawl!

MAIN EVENT
Steel Cage Match:
Ric Flair and Sting vs. The Great Muta and Terry Funk

NWA United States Heavyweight Title Match:
"The Total Package" Lex Luger (c) vs. "Wildfire" Tommy Rich

NWA World Tag Team Title Match:
The Fabulous Freebirds (c) vs. The Steiner Brothers

"Flyin'" Brian Pillman vs. Norman the Lunatic

The Samoan Swat Team vs. The Road Warriors

"Dr. Death" Steve Williams vs. Mike Rotunda

Plus, Tom Zenk will make his debut! Watch it live on the Superstation TBS, September 12th at 8 PM.
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/12/10 at 07:13:51

WCW Main Event
Date: September 10, 1989
Location: Norfolk, VA

Great Muta pinned Ron Simmons after the Moonsault in 0:07:05.
Rating: * 1/4
(Great Muta retained the NWA World Television Title.)

The Great Muta made his first title defense of the NWA World Television Championship and he started off on the right foot. He defeated Ron Simmons in under 10 minutes to continue his undefeated streak in singles action.

Interview:
Jim Ross and Magnum T.A. hyped the upcoming Clash of the Champions card. Magnum was of the opinion that it was inevitable that neither Ric Flair and Sting and The Great Muta and Terry Funk will walk out in the same condition as they walked into the cage. There's too much animosity and hatred between the two teams.

Mike Rotunda pinned Agent Steel with the Airplane Spin in 0:04:39.
Rating: -1/4*

In a pre-taped insert promo, Mike Rotunda questioned Steve Williams' intelligence for breaking away from The Varsity Club. According to Mike Rotunda, everyone with a brain could tell that he was the far superior member of the team to Dr. Death. At Clash of the Champions, he will prove to everyone that brains are better than brawn!

Interview:
Ric Flair and Sting gave a pre-taped promo hyping their steel cage match against The Great Muta and Terry Funk at Clash of the Champions. Ric Flair thanked Sting for coming to his aide last night and put over how much of a force he is going into 1990. Sting said that they are a team and it's a honor to learn from the best. Ric Flair warned Gary Hart that if he thought the steel cage was going to put Sting and him out of professional wrestling, he better think again. Sting concluded by saying that they are going to war against the J-Tex Corporation.

The Dynamic Dudes (Johnny Ace and Shane Douglas) defeated New Zealand Militia (Jacko Victory and Rip Morgan) when Douglas pinned R. Morgan with the Belly to Belly Suplex in 0:08:03.
Rating: * 1/2

Once again, Jim Cornette was in the corner of The Dynamic Dudes as they went to battle with the New Zealand Militia. After The Dynamic Dudes notched another impressive victory, Jim Cornette looked to be very pleased with the outcome.

After the match, Jim Ross cornered Jim Cornette on the obvious question about what is going on with The Midnight Express and Jim Cornette's tutelage of The Dynamic Dudes. Jim Cornette didn't want to talk about it but did say he was unable to attend last night's WCW Saturday Nitro due to travel issues. His heart will always be with The Midnight Express but he sees something special in Shane Douglas and Johnny Ace for the future and they want to learn, so he is going to continue to mentor them.

Jimmy Garvin pinned Scott Steiner after an inside cradle in 0:11:41.
Rating: ** 3/4

During the match, Rick Steiner's girlfriend Robin came down to the ring to watch the match. This didn't sit well with Scott and he let her know about it. Jimmy Garvin's tag team partner Michael Hayes also came down to the ring to watch the match. After Michael Hayes had attacked Scott Steiner outside the ring, Rick Steiner had had enough and he ran down to the ring to confront him. During the melee, Robin got knocked down inadvertently by Rick Steiner. The commotion outside the ring distracted Scott Steiner which allowed Jimmy Garvin to use an inside cradle with tight pulling to get the three count.

After the match, Scott Steiner argued with Rick Steiner and Robin about the finish of the match as The Fabulous Freebirds celebrated in the aisle.


Card rating: * 3/4


Match observations:

Clash of the Champions VIII - Fall Brawl

MAIN EVENT
Steel Cage Match:
Ric Flair and Sting vs. The Great Muta and Terry Funk

NWA United States Heavyweight Title Match:
"The Total Package" Lex Luger (c) vs. "Wildfire" Tommy Rich

NWA World Tag Team Title Match:
The Fabulous Freebirds (c) vs. The Steiner Brothers

"Flyin'" Brian Pillman vs. Norman the Lunatic

The Samoan Swat Team vs. The Road Warriors

"Dr. Death" Steve Williams vs. Mike Rotunda

Plus, Tom Zenk will make his debut! Watch it live on the Superstation TBS, September 12th at 8 PM.
LillaThrillaPosted on 04/13/10 at 03:05:02

Good stuff.

Any particular reason you started the circuit when you did (Sept 1989)?
The TNM Members ChampPosted on 04/13/10 at 04:44:32

Probably two reasons. Originally, I was thinking about running this circuit in tandem with a TEW 1989 scenario that was released. However, I found that to be too time consuming. Secondly, I feel that the first part of 1989 is too good to really re-book. Things kind of fell apart in the latter half of 1989 going into 1990, in my opinion.

Also, someone released a What If scenario about 1989 in another forum, and I'm going to be following that somewhat. It involves certain WWF stars who were rumored to be approached by WCW actually coming in (per the Wrestling Observer at the time). As you might remember, only Arn Anderson ended up coming in.

Definitely fantasy booking but it should make it enjoyable for me. All I can say is that I wish Ted Turner had been more active with the checkbook back then instead of later on.
Larry MondelloPosted on 04/14/10 at 06:43:15

This is an interesting read.  I'm hoping Ron Simmons scores big somewhere down the road.  He was always one of my favorite talents, so I hate seeing him go down to Muta in the opening match, even though Muta was great.