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[GCW] Monday Night Explosion - 9/27/04

Snabbit888Posted on 12/16/04 at 22:15:20

Usually when you think about Idaho, you think about potatoes. But tonight, when people thought about Idaho, people thought about Global Championship Wrestling as Monday Night Explosion spilled into the Taco Bell Arena in Boise, the home of the Boise State Broncos! The final three first round matches in the North American Title Tournament were on tap tonight, including two big wrestler debuts! In one of those debuts, Chris Hero would take on the bizarre Goldust. In the other, John Bradshaw Layfield would make his heralded debut against a man freshly returning from injury, Justin Credible! The third tournament match would be Tommy Dreamer of the Revolution taking on Chris Jericho, whose Sensationals are in complete disarray! We also would have Chris Benoit, unless he has found a partner, taking on Perry Saturn and The Amazing Red! In addition, we would have a six-man tag team match with Shaniqua's forces of the World Tag Team champions, the Basham Brothers, and the massive Abyss, taking on the number-one-contenders, the Hardy Boyz, and the man Abyss tried to choke out on High Voltage last night, The Hurricane! Undoubtedly a big night of action! We were also going to get the first official matches of the next pay-per-view, Trick or Trouble, announced!

* * * * *

[The introduction and pyro for Monday Night Explosion come to a close as the packed Taco Bell Arena cheers on enthusiastically. Those cheers turn to jeers in a flash as "Medal" plays and out comes the GCW World Heavyweight champion. Kurt Angle has the title wrapped securely around his waist as the fans hurl insults at him. Angle jaws with a few select fans, hurling those insults right back. Angle gets in the ring and does his patented Olympic spin which gets even louder boos. Angle grabs the microphone from William Buck before pushing him out of the ring. The music dies down as the fans continue to chant "YOU SUCK!" at our champion. Angle is getting upset, but he bites his lip until the chants die down.]

KA: Are you done now?

[This, of course, prompts the chants to fire up again.]

KA: I'm the World Heavyweight champion and an Olympic gold medalist! All you people have won are Potato Eating Contests. I don't suck; you suck!

[Loud boos.]

KA: And you know who else sucks? Randy Orton.

[A huge mixed reaction for Orton. The fans are glad that he is out of the Sensationals, but he hasn't done anything other than that to win them over.]

KA: Randy Orton had it all. He was a member of the elite group in professional wrestling, the Sensationals. He was handpicked by yours truly to be a part of something special. I thought Orton had it. I thought he had that something special to be one of the best this business has ever seen, but I was obviously wrong. To be Sensational, you have to be a winner. In recent weeks, Randy Orton has shown everybody that he is anything but, it's true.

[Orton may not have been racking in the victories since he lost the North American Title to Lance Storm, but to say he's a loser is taking it a bit too far.]

KA: Randy, what happened? You had so much potential. It's just so sad that even at age 24, you have already reached your peak and are on the decline. You were a respectable North American champion, I'll give you that. But hey, second place is only the first loser, and that's why you will NEVER reach the heights that I have. You're never going to win a gold medal, and you're NEVER going to be the World Heavyweight champion! Not now, and not ever!

[Randy Orton has heard enough as "Take What's Mine" by Mercy Drive plays, getting a loud pop. Randy Orton comes out from the back and is definitely getting a lot more cheers than boos now. Orton has a bandage on his head due to Angle busting him open with the World Heavyweight Title last week. Orton stays at the top of the ramp with a microphone in tow.]

RO: I'm a loser, Kurt? You know what, Kurt? Maybe you're right. Maybe I am a loser. I mean, I have been on a losing streak. I lost to Chris Benoit at Retribution. It's not like Benoit is a former World champion, and it's not like Benoit is a guy that spent months kicking your ass or anything, right Kurt?

[Angle throws a mini-fit in the ring as a big smile grows on Orton.]

RO: But you know something, Kurt? That's fine. You can call me a loser, you can say I'm pathetic, but let's look at the facts here. You're the World Heavyweight champion, that's true. But if it weren't for a handful of tights, you wouldn't have that pretty piece of gold around your waist. And true, last week, you busted me open. You made me bleed in that very ring. I've heard that you've been going around, bragging about how you punked me out. Let's get one thing perfectly clear though. If it wasn't for your hired muscle, if it wasn't for Steve Bradley, do you think you would have taken me out like that? I had you backed in a corner. I saw the look of fear in your eyes, the fear that you were going to be the next to succumb to the most devastating three letters in wrestling: R... K... O. You can call me names, you can say what you want, but you know deep down that you can't beat me, Angle. You know that I am a legend in the making. And most importantly, you know that we've run around together for months now. I know how your mind works. I know you better than anybody, Kurt, and that scares you. It scares you because you know if you ever had to wrestle me, you and that World Heavyweight Title would be parting ways.

[Angle starts to laugh in the ring.]

KA: You're joking, right? Are you actually challenging me to a match? Not only a match, but a World Heavyweight Title match? Are you out of your freakin' mind? Have we not established that you're a loser? You can't beat Benoit, you can't beat Monty Brown, and now you want a shot at the most prestigious championship in wrestling? You say you know me better than anyone, but you obviously haven't picked up on any of my three I's, most notably, intelligence, because that is one of the dumbest things I've ever heard in my life! But you know what, Randy? I'm feeling extra generous tonight. I'll tell you what I'm going to do for you. I'm so convinced that you're such a pathetic waste of space and can't possibly win a match, I'm going to give you one week. You train real hard, you drink your milk, you do whatever you got to do to get ready. I, being the World champion, am going to hand select an opponent for you to face next week. You beat this man, I'll give you a Christmas present early and you can face me for the World Heavyweight Title at Trick or Trouble. And before you get any ideas, a countout or disqualification win doesn't count. Anyone can win by countout or DQ; you're going to have to pin him or make him submit.

RO: You're not going to have to worry about that, Kurt, because I will beat whoever you throw at me, and then I will take the World Heavyweight Title. But you know what I think, Kurt? [Orton undoes the buttons on his shirt, showing that he's ready for a fight.] These people didn't come out to the arena tonight to see us talk. They came here to watch me kick your ass all over Boise!

[Orton drops the mic and rips his shirt off and starts toward the ring. Angle throws his mic down and gets in a fighting stance, waiting for Orton. Orton rolls under the bottom rope allowing Angle to stomp him right off the bat. Orton struggles back to his feet as Angle kicks away at him. Angle whips Orton into the ropes and goes for a clothesline, but Orton ducks under it, hits the far ropes and flattens Angle with a clothesline. Angle still has the World Heavyweight Title on as Orton starts nailing him with right hands, obviously trying to bust Angle open. STEVE BRADLEY was in the ring now, favoring his injured knee as he nails Orton from behind with a forearm. Bradley nails Orton with a few punches to the head and tries for the Smashmouth, but Orton gets out of it and drops Bradley with the R.K.O. to a huge pop! Orton turns his attention back to Angle, but Angle pops him in the face with a hard shot with the World Heavyweight Title! Orton is out, and Angle isn't about to wait for him to come to. Angle grabs a groggy Bradley and helps him from the ring and they both disappear to the back. Orton slowly regains his bearings as blood trickles from under his bandage. We cut to commercial as a groggy Orton heads to the back in search of Angle and Bradley.]

* * * * *


Match #1
North American Title Tournament - First Round
Chris Hero (DEBUT!!!) vs. Goldust
What a huge opportunity for Chris Hero upon his GCW debut. This is Hero's first real shot at the big time, and what a way it would be to make an impact in a major federation by winning the North American Title Tournament. It wasn't going to be easy for him though as he had a tough opponent ahead of him in the form of the veteran Goldust. Hero wanted to make a good impact right away, and he looked to have a lot of nervous energy in the early going, making some rookie mistakes. Goldust knows all about taking advantage of situations (just ask Booker T about that) and Goldust made the youngster pay for it.

Hero's chances weren't looking that great after Goldust caught him in the Curtain Call, but rather then try to put the newcomer away, Goldust wanted to inflict more punishment. Goldust positioned Hero in the corner for the Golden Globes Kick. Goldust took a bit too much time playing to the crowd and when he charged in, Hero got himself out of the way. Goldust hit the corner hard and was a bit out of it when Hero got a burst of energy, hit a kick to the midsection, and nailed a move he likes to call the Hero's Welcome (Roll of the Dice) and pulled out a huge victory!

[North American Title Tournament - First Round]:
Chris Hero pinned Goldust with the Hero's Welcome in 0:09:13.
Rating: ** 1/2

What a way to debut for Chris Hero, earning himself a trip to the quarter finals and a match against AJ Styles. If things weren't bad enough for Goldust, BOOKER T was in the ring now and he was absolutely decimating Goldust! Booker's ribs were still taped, but he was working on pure adrenaline as he assaulted Goldust, knocking him out of the ring with a clothesline over the top. Goldust tried to retreat up the ramp, but he couldn't get away as Booker tossed him into the guardrail. Booker T was crazed, and it's hard to blame him after the things Goldust has done to him (especially last week's "first-aid treatment" administered by the Golden One). Booker managed to hit Goldust with the Axe Kick before the GCW Official Brigade got down there and broke it up. By the looks of things, this one is going to get worse before it gets any better.

* * * * *

[We see Randy Orton stomping around backstage, blood still on his face, in search of Kurt Angle and Steve Bradley.]

RO: ANGLE! ANGLE, GET YOUR ASS OUT HERE!

[Orton knocks on some random locker room doors, screaming for Kurt Angle to come out and face him. One of the doors opens, but it's Eric Angle, not Kurt.]

EA: What do you want?

RO: I'm not looking for you. Where's your brother?

EA: How should I know?

RO: You tell him I'm looking for him!

EA: I'm not telling him jack, loser.

RO: What did you say?

[Orton gets in Angle's face.]

EA: You better back away from me.

RO: And what if I don't?

EA: I'll just do what everyone else seems to be doing these days, and that's kick your ass.

[Angle laughs at Orton, who retaliates by slapping Angle across the face.]

RO: You think this is funny? I'm looking to kick your brother's ass, but don't think I won't take you out too.

EA: Is that so? Instead of talking about it, why don't we settle this in the ring? Though I think it's pretty obvious how this is going to turn out. Eric Angle? Undefeated. Randy Orton? Couldn't buy a win.

RO: Keep telling yourself that. Make sure your brother's watching.

[Orton walks away from Angle, a match apparently being set for tonight. With the mindset Orton is in, Angle's undefeated streak could be in jeopardy.]

* * * * *


Match #2
The World's Greatest Tag Team vs. Team Canada
Since Petey Williams' debut last Sunday, he and Teddy Hart have picked up two impressive wins, but tonight would be their biggest test as they took on the former two-time World Tag Team champions, the World's Greatest Tag Team. Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas undoubtedly had the experience advantage, but you get the feeling with Team Canada that they don't respect anybody, and they showed it by stepping up to the plate in this big time match. Haas and Benjamin had a lot of problems keeping up with the speedy Canadians, which is saying a lot because Haas and Benjamin are both world-class athletes. Hart and Williams rely on not letting their opponents get a hold of them, and that's how much of this match went.

What Haas and Benjamin didn't have in speed, they did have in tag team skill, and they got Petey Williams trapped in the ring after Benjamin caught him under the jaw with a spin kick. The World's Greatest Tag Team systematically worked Williams over, cutting off the ring with expert precision and using great double team moves to wear him down. Since Team Canada had been flying a lot early, Benjamin and Haas worked over Williams' legs, keeping him grounded, making him prone for the Haas of Pain to give the former champions the duke.

The World's Greatest Tag Team (Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin) defeated Team Canada (Teddy Hart and Petey Williams) when C. Haas defeated P. Williams when P. Williams passed out in the Haas Of Pain in 0:08:20.
Rating: ** 1/2

You have to hand it to Team Canada; they more than held their own against the World's Greatest Tag Team. But Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin weren't given that title out of nowhere, and they proved why they are amongst the elite in tag team wrestling. Like their attitudes or not, but Team Canada has a ton of potential, but this match showed they still have a ways to go.

* * * * *

[When we return from the commercial, the Prophecy - "Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels, Sean O'Haire, and Daffney are being introduced, as Sean O'Haire is about to meet Rey Mysterio Jr. Daniels is decked out in full priest's robe, with the large cross hanging around his neck and he's carrying a large Bible-esque book. Daniels' Television Title is being carried over the shoulder of Daffney, who is holding it like it's her prized blanket. The Prophecy enters the ring and Daniels takes the mic.]

CD: Rey Mysterio Jr., you must be asking yourself, "Why? Why has the Prophecy singled me out? Why did they cost me the World Heavyweight Title?" It's simple, Rey. At Retribution, He had a plan. The Prophecy's destiny is set in stone. It CANNOT be altered. President Ryan Niemiller has sinned against Him, and I have been sent to punish the sins of those heathens who do so. The sacrifice was set for Retribution, but you interfered with those plans. You tried to stand in the way of a destiny that cannot be changed! I have specific instructions from above to destroy whomever might stand in the way of the Prophecy, by any means necessary. Those means, Rey?

[Daniels points to O'Haire.]

CD: Those means stand 6'6" and weigh 280 pounds. Rey Mysterio, you're moments away from becoming nothing more than a footnote in the Book of the Prophecy. Oh, and Niemiller, there's a chapter in this book dedicated to you as well. It's not a matter of if... it's a matter of when.

["6-1-9" plays over the sound system and out comes Rey Mysterio Jr. to a thunderous ovation. Mysterio wastes no time as he sprints to the ring, slides under the bottom rope and goes after Daniels, but he's cut off by Sean O'Haire. Referee Petey Pluck calls for the bell as Daniels and Daffney scatter from the ring.]

* * * * *


Match #3
Rey Mysterio Jr. vs. Sean O'Haire (w/ Christopher Daniels/Daffney)
Rey Mysterio Jr. came into this match using emotion rather than strategy, and it cost him right away as Sean O'Haire put a hurting on him. O'Haire hit Mysterio with a powerslam, a power bomb, and a huge side suplex. It looked like this one was going to be over quickly as O'Haire propped Mysterio on his shoulders for the Prophecy, but Mysterio reversed it with an arm drag. O'Haire was back up, but Mysterio took him down with a spinning heel kick, that knocked O'Haire out of the ring. Mysterio got a running start and we thought he was going to jump on O'Haire, but instead of hitting the far ropes, he jumped over the far ropes right onto Christopher Daniels to a huge crowd pop! Mysterio started punching away at the Television champion Daniels was caught in his robe and couldn't really defend himself, but luckily for him, O'Haire came around, grabbed Mysterio, picked him up by the head, and tossed him into the ringpost. Referee Petey Pluck jumped to the floor, telling O'Haire to take it back in the ring, but O'Haire gave him a hard shove, knocking him to the floor. Pluck called for the disqualification immediately.

Rey Mysterio Jr. defeated Sean O'Haire by disqualification in 0:04:19.
Rating: * 1/2

Sean O'Haire was disqualified, but I don't think the Prophecy minded as the assault on Mysterio continued. Mysterio tried to fight back, but it was futile as O'Haire overpowered Mysterio and put him through the announce table with the Prophecy! Mysterio was wiped out as the sadistic O'Haire stood over Mysterio and the table wreckage as Daniels smiled widely. Barry Tarver and the medical staff ran down to check on Mysterio as the GCW Official Brigade ushered the Prophecy to the back. Christopher Daniels is dead set on destroying Rey Mysterio Jr., and with Sean O'Haire doing his dirty work, it could be very possible. After we went off the air, a press release was issued stating that the Prophecy was fined heavily for their actions tonight by GCW President Ryan Niemiller. You know that's not going to make Christopher Daniels very happy.


Match #4
North American Title Tournament - First Round
Justin Credible vs. John Bradshaw Layfield (DEBUT!!!)
The much heralded debut of John Bradshaw Layfield was next, as he took on the returning Justin Credible in a first round match of the North American Title Tournament. This match was ultra important for both men, and not just because it would move one of them closer to the North American Title. For JBL, a win was necessary because he has been talking a lot of smack through vignettes and now he had to put up or shut up. For Credible, it was his first match back from a knee injury and he had to prove to not only the fans, but to himself that he could perform at a high level once again.

Both men looked adequate in this match. JBL is not going to wow you by being an in-ring general. JBL won't outclass you with wrestling ability. What he will do is beat the living crap out of you though, and that's exactly what happened to Credible for much of this match. Credible was very hesitant about doing too much that could possibly re-injure that knee, and JBL picked him apart because of it. This match looked like it was going to be an easy win for JBL, but it only takes three seconds for a match to be over, and this was a perfect example of that. JBL, after successfully wearing Credible down, went for the Stock Market Crash (Clothesline From Hell) but Credible ducked under it. When JBL turned back around, Credible surprised him with a small package and was able to hold him down for the three!

[North American Title Tournament - First Round]:
Justin Credible pinned John Bradshaw Layfield after a small package in 0:05:25.
Rating: * 3/4

John Bradshaw Layfield was in absolute shock, as was most everybody in the building. Justin Credible pulled what has to be considered a huge upset over the man who was beating him senseless the entire match. JBL's shock soon turned to anger as he spun the celebrating Credible around and took his head off with the Stock Market Crash. Not only did JBL lose this match, but he showed that he was a poor loser as well. JBL raised his hands as if he won, but fact remains, it will be Justin Credible advancing to quarterfinals, not JBL.

* * * * *

[We are positioned outside of the Sensationals' locker room. The locker room door is cracked but we cannot see anyone inside. We can, however, hear the voice of GCW World Heavyweight champion Kurt Angle.]

KA: What do you mean what's in it for you? Isn't doing the World Heavyweight champion a favor payment enough? [Pause] Okay, okay. Fine. Here's the deal. You take out Orton next week, a handsome chunk of change is coming your way. But you gotta make sure that Orton's shoulders are pinned to the mat. Just beating him up doesn't do me any good. And if it doesn't do me any good, I'm not going to do you any good, got me? Excellent. So do we got a deal? [Pause] Good. Beat Orton, and you'll be heavily rewarded.

[After a couple of seconds, Shaniqua and Abyss emerge from the locker room and walk off. Moments later, Kurt Angle comes out of the locker room with a huge smile on his face.]

KA: Good luck next week, Orton. Because you're going to need it. It's true... it's DAMN true.

[We cut away to Mario Riviera.]

* * * * *

* * * * *

[Mario Riviera is in the backstage interview position with Paul London.]

MR: I'm standing by with GCW Cruiserweight champion Paul London. Paul, last week, your partner and friend, Billy Kidman, walked out during a match, leaving you all alone against the Italian Stallions. We have tried to contact Billy Kidman all week, but we haven't been able to do so. Have you spoken with Billy Kidman, and if so, did he have any explanations for his actions?

PL: I have tried to get a hold of Billy all week, but with about as much success as you've had. He's not returning phone calls, so I don't know where he is or what he's been doing. As for why he did what he did, your guess is as good as mine. Before Retribution, everything was fine. He was pumped up to become a World Tag Team champion, but after the match, he was really depressed. I didn't think much of it. I know him pretty well; he usually bounces back from those type of things.

MR: From what I understand, Billy Kidman is scheduled to be in action next week on Explosion. Perhaps he will give some insight into what he's thinking.

PL: I hope so, because I sure as hell would like to know.

MR: Thank you for your time, Paul.

PL: Don't mention it.

[London walks off. Before Riviera can say anything else, an angry John Bradshaw Layfield enters the area and starts throwing a fit.]

JBL: This is an absolute outrage! That referee is lucky I don't sue him for everything he's worth! My shoulder was obviously up before the three count! It's already beginning. I know that everyone in GCW is jealous of my success, but I didn't expect the screwing to start on my first night! And why did I debut in a pathetic town like Boise?

[Huge crowd boos.]

JBL: What is this place? The Taco Bell Arena? Hey, you must love this place, Riviera!

[Riviera shifts uncomfortably at that borderline racist comment.]

JBL: What happened earlier tonight does not change anything! When all is said and done, JBL will go down in history as the greatest wrestler that ever lived! And Justin Credible, enjoy your victory while you can. Enjoy your comeback, because if we ever meet again, you're going to go on another extended vacation! Now get out of my way, jackass!

[JBL pushes Riviera down to the ground before stomping off. Riviera gets back to his feet and straightens himself out before we cut back to the ring.]

* * * * *


Match #5
The Hardy Boyz/The Hurricane vs. The Basham Brothers (World Tag Team champions)/Abyss (w/ Shaniqua)
Six-man tag action on Explosion as the Hardy Boyz teamed up with The Hurricane to take on Shaniqua's forces consisting of the Basham Brothers and the man who apparently will take on Randy Orton next week on Explosion with Orton's potential title shot on the line, Abyss. You have to give The Hurricane a lot of credit for his guts, as after the brutal assault Abyss gave him on High Voltage, he probably shouldn't have been out here for this match. Matt and Jeff Hardy knew this too, and knew they would essentially have to wrestler a handicap match. It's daunting enough to fight any of Shaniqua's men when it's two-on-two, let alone with these odds.

The Hardyz tried as hard as they could, but Shaniqua has her men working like a well-oiled machine. The Hurricane was upset with himself that he couldn't contribute more to the team, but when you're hurting, you're hurting. The end of this match came as Jeff Hardy was getting on a roll against Doug Basham, taking him down with a series of dropkicks. Jeff got distracted though and tried to knock Abyss off the apron so he couldn't get involved when he tried to finish Doug off. Abyss took one forearm shot that made him reel a tiny bit, but as Jeff went for a second one, Abyss grabbed him by the throat and choke slammed him in the ring from the ring apron! Danny Basham joined his brother in the ring and finished Jeff Hardy off with the Ball And Gag Bomb.

The Basham Brothers (Doug Basham and Danny Basham) and Abyss defeated The Hardy Boyz (Jeff Hardy and Matt Hardy) and The Hurricane when Doug Basham pinned J. Hardy after the Ball And Gag Bomb in 0:04:55.
Rating: *** 1/2

Shaniqua wasn't content with her men just picking up a victory as she directed them to continue the assault. Matt Hardy jumped in the ring to come to the aid of his brother, and for a bit, he was doing a good job of fighting Doug and Danny Basham off, but once Abyss got in the ring, it was over for Matt as he was dropped with the Black Hole Slam. The Hardy Boyz were both out, and that's when The Hurricane got involved. The Hurricane jumped in the ring and stood up to the Bashams and Abyss. The Bashams both started laughing as The Hurricane struck his superhero pose, challenging all three of them to a fight! Abyss took a step forward and his massive size dwarfed The Hurricane, but the Man In Green didn't back down. Abyss took a swing at The Hurricane, but the speed of the superhero got him out of the way in time. The Hurricane nailed Abyss with a punch, and then followed it up with another one, but Abyss shook them off and grabbed The Hurricane around the throat. Abyss picked him up with a choke lift, but that was broken up when RANDY ORTON ran in and busted Abyss in the back with a chair! Abyss dropped The Hurricane and turned around only to be blasted in the skull with the cold steel! The Bashams made a hasty retreat as Orton took a swing at them. Orton turned back and blasted Abyss one more time, causing him to fall through the second and third ropes to the floor. Abyss was livid and tried to climb back into the ring after shaking out the cobwebs. The Bashams and Shaniqua had to physically hold him back as Orton taunted him to come back in the ring. Orton knows he has a tall order ahead of him next week, as he is going to have to pin Abyss or make him submit if he wants a shot at Kurt Angle's World Heavyweight Title, and that is something no one has done thus far. Orton has drawn first blood against Abyss, but I'm not sure it was wise to get Abyss so angry.

* * * * *

["Latino Heat" Eddie Guerrero is sitting alone in an undisclosed area of the arena. He is in a somber mood, sitting crouched in a corner. He speaks with his head down.]

EG: For months now, everywhere I've turned, Black Tiger has haunted me, lurking in the shadows, making my life a living hell. Black Tiger likes to play games, messing with my head, making me doubt myself, making me not trust my friends, my family...

[Guerrero shakes his head.]

EG: Because of you, Chavito isn't going to be able to wrestle for a long time! I feel horrible, but there's nothing I can do about that now. But with every passing second, my blood boils a little bit more. With every day that goes by that I don't know who you are, Black Tiger, I get a little more pissed off, essa!

[Guerrero looks up and stares right into the camera.]

EG: Well I'm tried of playing games, Tiger! I'm tired of you hiding! I'm tired of you getting involved in my matches, messing with my head, holmes! We're gonna settle this once and for all! No more hiding in the shadows! No more Chris Jericho to protect your identity! Black Tiger, I'm challenging you to a one-on-one match. What do you have to hide? You're ruining my life! Isn't that what you wanted, essa!? You wanted to make me snap!? WELL I'VE SNAPPED! I'm gonna do to you everything that you've done to me! I'm going to ruin your life! But I'm not going to do it through mind games, holmes, I'm gonna do it by kicking your ass!

[After a few moments of Guerrero burning a hole through the camera with his stare, we cut back to the ring. Whoever this Black Tiger might be, he may have finally gone too far.]

* * * * *


Match #6
North American Title Tournament - First Round
"The Innovator of Violence" Tommy Dreamer vs. "Y2J" Chris Jericho
We only had one more first round match in the North American Title Tournament left, and that final quarterfinal spot would either go to Tommy Dreamer or Chris Jericho. Dreamer didn't have the luxury of the rest of the Revolution being with him at ringside as they had a handicap match with Chris Benoit coming up next. Jericho was also in a tricky spot as not only were we unsure of how his back was, but we also haven't heard anything about his opinions on Randy Orton's departure from the Sensationals. No matter what Jericho's back is like and no matter what his thoughts on the Angle/Orton situation, he was on top of his game tonight. His back didn't seem to be bothering him at all as he moved smoothly in the ring, looking like the Chris Jericho of old. He needed to be too, as Dreamer brought his A-game as well. Since the Revolution formed, Dreamer's confidence levels have gone way up and his performance in the ring has improved accordingly.

A solid back and forth match from these two with both wrestlers trying to work over the other's back. This match became a matter of who would make the first major mistake, and that ended up being Tommy Dreamer. After Dreamer hit a big power bomb on Y2J, he uncharacteristically went to the top rope. Dreamer took awhile to get to the top, and it cost him as Jericho got to his feet and crotched him on the top turnbuckle. Jericho ascended the turnbuckle as well and brought Dreamer down with a superplex. Although it hurt Jericho as well, it hurt the Innovator of Violence more, allowing Jericho to lock on the Walls of Jericho, forcing Dreamer to submit.

[North American Title Tournament - First Round]:
Chris Jericho defeated Tommy Dreamer when Jericho made Dreamer submit to the Walls Of Jericho in 0:06:40.
Rating: ****

An impressive outing for both men, but Chris Jericho gets the win and moves on in the tournament. The quarterfinals are now set. In the upper bracket, it will be Monty Brown taking on the man who had the first round bye, Sean O'Haire. The winner of that match takes on the winner of a contest between Chris Jericho and Justin Credible. In the lower half, it will be newcomer Chris Hero taking on former Television champion AJ Styles, and it will be Steve Bradley of the Sensationals taking on the surprising Hurricane. The quarterfinal matchups will begin next week on Explosion.

* * * * *

[Mario Riviera is standing by backstage with "The Crippler" Chris Benoit.]

MR: I'm here with Chris Benoit. Chris, in just a few moments, you're going to have a match with Perry Saturn and Red of the Revolution. Have you been able to find a partner for this match, or are you going to go at it alone?

CB: It's not a matter of me not being able to find a partner. It's a matter of me not WANTING a partner. It doesn't take a lot to get me motivated, and I've ripped through better than Perry Saturn and Red. The Revolution want to make a name for themselves at my expense, but I'm the best technical wrestler in the world today! They want to rise up? Their first step is to PROVE ME WRONG!

[Not more than a second after Benoit says that, Brock Lesnar is in the shot, standing face-to-face with Benoit. After a tense staredown, Lesnar speaks.]

BL: You've got a lot of guts, Benoit, but you don't have much in terms of brains. You want to go out there and play hero? That's fine. But I want you to think about something. You're about to go out there against two men. Two capable opponents in a handicap match, but I want you to keep it in the back of your head that combined, they're no Brock Lesnar. And you made a big mistake last week. Last week had nothing to do with you, Benoit. I'm looking to get my fair shot at the World Heavyweight Title. I had two title matches against you when you were champion, but both matches were marred with interference. I can beat you, Benoit, and deep down in your heart, you know I can beat you, and it scares you.

CB: I am scared of no one, Brock! You can bitch and moan all you want, but you had TWO chances to take the title from me, and you couldn't get the job done.

BL: I couldn't get the job done? Well if you're so confident that I can't get the job done, why don't we do this one more time? You versus me, one-on-one at Trick or Trouble?

CB: You don't gotta ask me twice.

[The two exchange a very tense handshake, in essence sealing the deal for the match at Trick or Trouble. After they release, Benoit pushes past Lesnar and heads toward the ring. Lesnar looks toward Benoit.]

BL: Good luck out there.

[A big smile grows on Lesnar's face as we cut out to the ring.]

* * * * *


Match #7
Handicap Match
"The Crippler" Chris Benoit vs. The Revolution (Perry Saturn/The Amazing Red)
Chris Benoit had a tall order to contend with tonight as he was fighting not one, but two members of the Revolution in the form of Perry Saturn and The Amazing Red. Benoit came out with guns firing, holding his own very well against two men. Eventually the Revolution's double teaming got the better of Benoit and it looked like the odds were going to be too great for him. Saturn and Red were working tremendously as a team, wearing the former World Heavyweight champion down with great tag team strategy (and a lot of cheap tactics, truth be told). Benoit fought hard, but it seemed the numbers would get the better of him. Things looked even more bleak when BROCK LESNAR came down to the ring. However, instead of going after Benoit, Lesnar got in Benoit's corner and was shockingly cheering Benoit on! Benoit was given the right to have a tag team partner, and it looks like Brock Lesnar was taking that position!

Benoit didn't seem to notice that Lesnar was there as he was in the ring being assaulted. Saturn had Benoit up in his shoulders in an attempt for a Death Valley Driver. Benoit reversed and slid off of Saturn's shoulders, dropping behind him and hitting a German suplex. Two more Germans followed and it ended up with both Saturn and Benoit laid out on the mat. Referee JD Sanders started administering the count, but Saturn crawled over and tagged in Red. Benoit was crawling, but it didn't appear he knew Lesnar was in the corner. When he got close, Lesnar slapped him on the back, tagging himself in. Red jumped at Lesnar, but Lesnar caught him and dropped him with a huge powerslam. Saturn ran back in, but he was floored with a clothesline and thrown over the top. This must have been retaliation from Lesnar, as when the Revolution formed, they did so with an attack on the Minnesota Monster. Lesnar picked Red up and planted him with a huge power bomb, held on, lifted Red back up, and power bombed him again, nearly folding him in half! Benoit had slowly gotten to his feet, and when he did, Lesnar picked him up and hit the F-5! And with that, Lesnar jumped out of the ring and walked up the ramp to the back! Lesnar did what he wanted to do and effectively took Benoit out. Red had enough strength to throw an arm over Benoit and Red had pinned the former World Heavyweight champion!

The Revolution (Perry Saturn and Red) defeated Brock Lesnar and Chris Benoit when Red pinned Benoit after Lesnar hit Benoit with the F-5 in 0:10:02.
Rating: *** 3/4

This was an absolutely huge win for the Revolution, as they have proved to be dangerous before tonight, but hadn't secured a signature win. Although it wasn't the cleanest of wins, any time you pin a former World champion, it's a big deal. Saturn and Red retreated to the back, wisely going to the side of the ramp to avoid Brock Lesnar, who stood at the top of it smiling at Benoit, pointing to his head in celebration of what he considered to be a brilliant move. Benoit slowly recovered and saw Lesnar on the ramp and burned a hole through him with his eyes. If things are this tense now, imagine what it's going to be like at Trick or Trouble.


Match #8
MAIN EVENT
Randy Orton vs. Eric Angle
Before the match, Joey O'Donnell and Brian Wagner recapped the attack on Randy Orton by Kurt Angle and Steve Bradley earlier in the night, including the shot Orton took from the World Heavyweight Title wielded by the champion. They then showed Orton looking for the Sensationals but instead finding Eric Angle, Kurt's brother, thus leading to this match. Eric Angle is of course still undefeated, and this was definitely the biggest challenge to that streak to date. This was also Angle's first main event, so it would be interesting to see if nerves would get the better of him.

The most impressive part about Eric Angle's winning streak isn't how long it has lasted, but rather how much he has improved as the weeks have gone by. Angle took a lot of punishment in this match as Orton was running on a lot of emotion here, as the past 8 days have not been kind to him for certain. Angle showed how he has matured in the ring though by riding Orton's waves of offense and firing back, keeping himself in a position to be successful in this match. With Orton in the state that he was, he was being overzealous on many occasions, and Eric Angle was taking advantage of it. Angle may have taken a lot of punishment, but he dished it right back. But maybe the man who took the most damage was head referee Jimmy Appleseed, who got caught between Eric Angle and a turnbuckle as Angle tried for a clothesline but Orton ducked under it.

With Appleseed down, we knew things could get volatile really quickly, and that's exactly what happened. It wasn't long after Appleseed went down that STEVE BRADLEY was down in the ring, nailing Orton with some hard right hands. Orton blocked one though, and fired back with lefts and rights, backing Bradley into a corner. Orton spun around and was going to hit Bradley with the R.K.O., but he didn't see that KURT ANGLE was down on the ring apron now. Angle had something in his hand, and he threw a strange white powder right into Orton's eyes! Orton was blinded, which allowed not only for Bradley to slip out of the ring, but for a recovered Eric Angle to plant Orton with the Angle Slam. Jimmy Appleseed was shaking off the cobwebs and he counted a slow three, giving Eric Angle the biggest win of his career.

Eric Angle pinned Randy Orton with the Angle Slam in 0:08:59.
Rating: ** 3/4

The Sensationals had once again screwed Randy Orton, and Eric Angle reaped the benefits by winning his first main event. He didn't stick around the ring though as he didn't want to be around when Orton came to. Kurt Angle is obviously not content with just kicking Orton out of the Sensationals, but he wants to make his life a living hell. This is not how Orton wanted to go into next week's Explosion when he faces Abyss with his chance at Kurt Angle and the World Heavyweight Title on the line.

If Orton does beat Abyss, he will meet Angle at Trick or Trouble. We won't know that until next week, but we do know that as of now, there are currently three matches signed for the event that will take place on October 24th from the Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. As of now, we know these matches are signed:

World Tag Team Title Match - The Basham Brothers (c) vs. The Hardy Boyz

"The Crippler" Chris Benoit vs. Brock Lesnar

And signed after the show... "Latino Heat" Eddie Guerrero vs. Black Tiger

As soon as we hear of other matches being signed, you'll hear it here first!
Critic of the DawnPosted on 12/17/04 at 04:57:24

The build to Orton/Angle begins!  This should be an excellent match, and along with Angle/Michaels is one of the few "Dream Matches" WWE has left at the moment.  I've really been enjoying all of the Sensationals' stuff tremendously...  I wonder, though.  Will Angle recruit a new member to replace Orton?

Wow!  Impressive debut by Chris Hero!  Goldust makes the mistake of letting sadism get in the way of his victory and consequently loses badly.  Glad to see the feud with Booker is still going strong, though.

WGTT over Team Canada.  No real surprise there.  Interesting to see you using Teddy Hart, though.  I suppose he DOES fit, now that I think about it.  Just watch out for random moonsaults.

The Prophecy splats Misterio for interfering in their beatdown of the GCW president.  In all honesty, I'm not sure that I like this angle, if only because I generally dislike self-insertion in major roles, and because the Wrestler vs. Authority Figure feud has been done to death.  Granted, the authority figure being the babyface is a bit of a twist on the standard.

Bradshaw debuts and... loses to JUSTIN CREDIBLE?  JUSTIN FREAKIN' CREDIBLE?  Whoa.  I would not have predicted that.

The six man tag team match was short for a match with so many men, but I think the right team went over.  I'm liking the bit with Angle paying Shaniqua off to sic Abyss on Orton a lot, and am defiantely looking forward to the match next week.  Of course, Orton will win, but that's more or less necessary for the storyline.

Guerrero vs. Black Tiger!  Guerrero's gonna kill the mysterious masked... er... mysterious masked maniac of meddling mischief.  Yeah, that's it!

Jericho over Dreamer.  Sounds good to me.  The Sensationals needed a high profile victory here to keep Angle's decision rational.  The Revolution, on the other hand, can afford a loss to someone as high on the card as Jericho.

...And a Lesnar assisted victory over Chris Benoit certainly won't hurt their chances either.  Really looking forward to Benoit/Lesnar!

Eric Angle FINALLY gets on Explosion, and not only that, but he manages to headline the show!  Excellent.  Given his record, I'd like to see him on Explosion most of the time, even if he is just curtain jerking.

Great stuff as always.  Keep up the good work.

Eric "Critic of the Dawn"
Snabbit888Posted on 12/17/04 at 05:02:36

I understand your concerns with the Wrestler vs. Authority Figure, as I hate those angles as much as anybody.  It's not going to be Vince vs. Austin by any means.  It'll have a payoff, but I'm not going to push myself to the moon.  It just worked well to get Daniels out of the Triple X funk and into a bit more of a spotlight role.

Trick or Trouble is going to be a great card, IMO.  I'm excited about it... just gotta get there.  Thanks for the feedback, sparky!
91Posted on 12/20/04 at 20:34:36

Impressive stuff. I'm also in agreement with the whole Angle/Orton stuff being the big one to look forward to. I could well see Orton pulling this one out, but then I could see that being delayed by an Abyss victory (but I still pick Orton).

Also, it's about time there's some sort of tie in with Kurt and Eric. In fact, Eric might be a perfect replacement for Orton.

WHO IS THE BLACK TIGER??? You've kept me waiting a while now, I'm thinking the mask might finally come off to reveal... well, not Rob Van Dam anymore. I'm still stumped. When Michaels and Jericho were involved, I had ideas in my head, but now, I'm baffled.

AHAHAHA! JBL loses. I should be shocked (and I am) but I'm also amused.

Finally I'm thinking Monty Brown now will be the next NA champ, but only after my initial pick went pear shapred. Oh well.
Snabbit888Posted on 12/21/04 at 05:37:08

I'm extremely proud of this Black Tiger angle.  It's had a good shelf life, and no one (minus Eric, who worked with me on the angle) knows who it is.  Muhahahahaha.
Critic of the DawnPosted on 12/21/04 at 05:40:16

The identity of Black Tiger after RVD was injured was actually my idea.  And I'm not telling who it is.  Nyaa nya! ;D

Eric "Critic of the Dawn"
Snabbit888Posted on 12/21/04 at 06:38:20

Hey!  No taunting, or I'll kick you out of future booking meetings, mister!
HugeRockStar760Posted on 12/21/04 at 08:28:01

That Taco Bell Arena comment by JBL was priceless!  (And seriously, the Taco Bell Arena?!?!  Boise must be struggling for sponsors)  

You hear it a lot probably, but you really have a knack for capturing the wrestlers' character.

Interviews aren't always the easiest things to do, but you have no problem it seems.



Snabbit888Posted on 12/21/04 at 15:47:15

Thank you.  Usually I don't laugh at my own stuff, but I had myself rolling for the Taco Bell Arena comment, and that's sad. :)