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LIW Night of the 'Taker - 11/12/05

Critic of the DawnPosted on 02/20/05 at 05:15:23

Some interesting surprises in this card that I'm not sure I'm happy with.  Still, two more solid workers join LIW, and several extremely solid matches balance out some of the less watchable stuff which occurred.  On the whole, I'm fairly happy with this card.

*****

A motorcycle roars into the parking lot as the sun is just beginning to set.
On the motorcycle sits a tall figure in a long leather trenchcoat and a dark
hat - The Undertaker!  As he parks his bike, the International Thug Syndicate
emerges from the building.)

Booker T: Yo, dawg... you got a lotta nerve comin' here, talkin' 'bout teachin'
people lessons!  Ain't nothin' you know that alla us haven't already found out.

Simon Diamond: And worse... it's because of talentless big guys like you that
some of us have been held back as long as we have.

Atlantis: So the way I see it, homes, is that you've got a choice to make.  You
can walk through this door and earn the same kind of ass kicking that Paul
London got last week...

(Stevie Ray, still dressed like Mario, chimes in.)

Stevie Ray: Or'a I cana do to you the same thing that I dida to Bowser!

(The Undertaker appears unimpressed)

The Undertaker: Respect is something which must be learned... When men who have
been in the business as long as you have still haven't come to understand where
your living comes from, it is up to people like me to beat you all the way to
the learning tree.  Some men can learn from the mistakes of others, while
others only learn through pain.  But you... for your crimes, you will Rest...
In... Peace...

(The Syndicate clearly doesn't like the sound of that, and immediately try to
rush The Undertaker.  'Taker fends them off as best he can, but in a four
against one fight, even the Deadman is bound to fall quickly.  This is
prevented, however, when The Harris Twins and Scott Steiner dash out to make
the save.  In fear of being overpowered, the International Thug Syndicate
quickly flees.)

"The British Sensation" Jonny Storm vs. Vampiro in a Warmup Match

Vampiro gets back into the ring.
Jonny Storm rolls back in under the bottom rope.
Vampiro hits Jonny Storm with a vertical suplex.
Vampiro whips Jonny Storm into the ropes.
Jonny Storm goes for a clothesline, but Vampiro ducks out of the way.
Vampiro punches Jonny Storm.
There are lots of chants for Vampiro.
Vampiro punches Jonny Storm.
Vampiro whips Jonny Storm into the ropes.
Vampiro goes for a roundhouse kick, but Jonny Storm ducks out of the way.
Jonny Storm nails Vampiro with a T-Bone Suplex.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, KICKOUT.
Vampiro executes a flying spinning leg lariat on Jonny Storm.
The crowd is really behind Vampiro.
Vampiro goes for a power bomb, but Jonny Storm blocks it.
Jonny Storm uses a forearm to the back on Vampiro.
Jonny Storm executes a spinning leg lariat on Vampiro.

Jonny Storm whips Vampiro into the ropes.
Vampiro hits Jonny Storm with a kick.
Vampiro goes for a legdrop, but Jonny Storm rolls out of the way.
Jonny Storm nails Vampiro with a side suplex.
The decibel level in the building is unbelievable.
Jonny Storm runs into the ropes.
Jonny Storm executes a clothesline on Vampiro.
Jonny Storm whips Vampiro into the ropes.
Jonny Storm goes for a kick to the midsection, but Vampiro blocks it.
Vampiro takes Jonny Storm down with a series of slaps.
Vampiro executes a power bomb on Jonny Storm.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, kickout.
Vampiro goes for a legdrop, but Jonny Storm rolls out of the way.
Jonny Storm nails Vampiro with a springboard dropkick.
The crowd breaks into a "USA!  USA!" chant.
Jonny Storm uses a roundhouse right on Vampiro.
Jonny Storm attempts to place Vampiro on the turnbuckle, but Vampiro blocks it.
Jonny Storm takes Vampiro down with a dropkick.
Jonny Storm hits Vampiro with a jawbreaker.
Jonny Storm hits a faceslam on Vampiro.
Jonny Storm is being booed out of the building.
Jonny Storm uses a superkick on Vampiro.
Jonny Storm executes the Super Rewind Huracanrana on Vampiro.
Jonny Storm goes for the pin.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, three.
Jonny Storm is being booed out of the building.

The winner is Jonny Storm. Time of match: 0:10:49

Jonny Storm pinned Vampiro with the Super Rewind Huracanrana in 0:10:49.
Rating: *** 1/2
[MsChif interfered against Vampiro.]

Vampiro made his return here to face Jonny Storm in a "warmup" match, and despite Vampiro's noticable size and power advantage, Jonny Storm proved as always that his speed is exceedingly hard to counter.  Storm seemed unphased by his opponent's gothic appearance and mannerisms, going so far as to dance around the ring during Vampiro's entrance to Cradle of Filth's "Vampire."  Perhaps this disrespect took Vampiro out of his game, or perhaps Vampiro was simply less than a match for Storm - whatever the case, Jonny Storm picked up a fairly easy victory here in just about 10 minutes.

Cactus Jack vs. TBA in a Top Contender's Qualifying Match

And Cactus Jack's opponent is... Edward Chastain?  That's the 500 pound Iceberg!

Edward Chastain whips Cactus Jack into the ropes.
Edward Chastain misses with an elbow.
Edward Chastain misses with a clothesline.
Edward Chastain hits a powerslam on Cactus Jack.
Alan Tso counts: One, kickout.
Edward Chastain goes for a chokehold, but Cactus Jack counters it with
a kick to the midsection.
Cactus Jack gives the sign for the Stump-Pulling Piledriver.
Cactus Jack executes a Stump-Pulling Piledriver on Edward Chastain.
The crowd is on its feet cheering for Cactus Jack.
Cactus Jack is going for the cover.
Alan Tso counts: One, two, in the ropes...
Cactus Jack goes for a series of forearm smashes, but Edward Chastain
ducks out of the way.
Edward Chastain runs into the ropes.
Cactus Jack misses with an elbow.
Cactus Jack executes a fist to the midsection on Edward Chastain.

Edward Chastain goes for a headbutt, but Cactus Jack blocks it.
Cactus Jack uses a clothesline on Edward Chastain.
Cactus Jack nails Edward Chastain with a series of forearm smashes.
The crowd is going into a frenzy.
Cactus Jack whips Edward Chastain into the ropes.
Cactus Jack goes for the Double Arm DDT, but he can't do it.
Edward Chastain whips Cactus Jack into the ropes.
Cactus Jack hits a clothesline on Edward Chastain.
Cactus Jack covers Edward Chastain.
Alan Tso counts: One, two, kickout.
Cactus Jack hits Edward Chastain with a kneedrop.
Cactus Jack hits a fist to the midsection on Edward Chastain.
Cactus Jack shouts "BANG BANG!".
The crowd is going into a frenzy.
Cactus Jack goes for a jab, but Edward Chastain blocks it.
Edward Chastain throws Cactus Jack out of the ring.
Edward Chastain goes outside.

Alan Tso counts:  1.
Edward Chastain gets back into the ring.
Cactus Jack follows him back in.
Edward Chastain uses an avalanche on Cactus Jack.
A fan at ringside badmouths Edward Chastain.
Edward Chastain goes for a powerslam, but Cactus Jack counters it with
a Cactus Clothesline.
The crowd is going into a frenzy.
In turn, Edward Chastain counters it with a Fujiwara armbar.
Cactus Jack breaks the hold after 5 seconds.
Cactus Jack goes for a jab, but Edward Chastain blocks it.
Edward Chastain nails Cactus Jack with an eye gouge.
Edward Chastain hits an avalanche on Cactus Jack.
Edward Chastain is being booed like there is no tomorrow.
Edward Chastain takes Cactus Jack down with a legdrop.
Edward Chastain goes for a clothesline, but Cactus Jack ducks out of the way.
Cactus Jack whips Edward Chastain into the ropes.
Cactus Jack hits Edward Chastain with a shoulderblock.
Cactus Jack whips Edward Chastain into the ropes, but Edward Chastain
reverses it.
Cactus Jack hits Edward Chastain with a Cactus Clothesline.
Cactus Jack nails Edward Chastain with a short lariat.
Alan Tso counts: One, two, three.
The crowd is giving Cactus Jack a standing ovation.

The winner is Cactus Jack. Time of match: 0:14:13

[Top Contender's Qualifying Match]:
Cactus Jack pinned Edward Chastain after a short lariat in 0:14:13.
Rating: ***
[Don Callis interfered against Cactus Jack.]

Edward Chastain has wrestled once before in LIW under his Iceberg gimmick, but at the advice of Don Callis cleaned himself up.  The booking committee thus decided to book him against Cactus Jack in a qualifying match.  Chastain proved to be as dangerous as ever through his sheer overwhelming size, but in the end he was simply no match for a man with the Hardcore experience of Cactus Jack.  Jack took the fight outside of the ring, putting his body on the line to take Chastain down.  Chastain proved to be too large for Cactus to hit the Double Arm DDT on, but after another minute or so of brawling, a stiff short lariat accomplished the same thing.  With this victory, Cactus Jack advances to compete for the Top Contendership later on tonight.

Michael Shane & Frankie Kazarian vs. The Oldschool Express vs. International Thug Syndicate (Atlantis & Simon Diamond) vs. Don Juan & Octagon in a Top Contender's Tag Team Match

Atlantis hits Don Juan with a kick.
Atlantis puts Don Juan in a Boston crab.
Don Juan grabs the ropes after being locked up for 5 seconds.
Atlantis hits Don Juan with a monkey flip.
Atlantis is going for the pin.
Atlantis uses the ropes for leverage.
Phillip McAlpine counts: One, he sees it.
Phillip McAlpine threatens Atlantis with disqualification.
Atlantis works the crowd.
The crowd breaks into a "Where's Your City" chant.
Atlantis hits Don Juan with a dropkick.
Atlantis whips Don Juan into the ropes.
Atlantis hits Don Juan with a shoulderblock.
Atlantis sends Don Juan into the turnbuckle.
Atlantis charges into the corner.
Atlantis takes Don Juan down with a kick to the midsection.
Atlantis takes Don Juan down with a dropkick.

Octagon throws Arn Anderson back into the ring.
Octagon goes for a kick to the midsection, but Arn Anderson blocks it.
Arn Anderson sends Octagon into the turnbuckle.
Arn Anderson runs shoulder-first into the corner.
Arn Anderson hits a flying clothesline on Octagon.
Arn Anderson gets an abdominal stretch on Octagon.
Octagon inches his way towards the ropes after being locked up for 5 seconds.
Arn Anderson hits Octagon with a legsweep.
Arn Anderson runs into the ropes.
Arn Anderson misses with a clothesline.
Arn Anderson nails Octagon with a swinging neckbreaker.
The crowd is on its feet cheering for Arn Anderson.
Arn Anderson executes the Spinebuster on Octagon.
Phillip McAlpine counts: One, two, KICKOUT.
Don Juan enters the ring to make it two-on-one.
Don Juan hits Arn Anderson with the Ace Crusher.
Octagon goes for a flying cross body press, but Arn Anderson
ducks out of the way.
Octagon inadvertedly knocks down Phillip McAlpine.

Simon Diamond runs into the ropes.
Jimmy Snuka goes for a bodyslam, but Simon Diamond blocks it.
Simon Diamond chops Jimmy Snuka.
Simon Diamond is being booed out of the building.
Simon Diamond hits Jimmy Snuka.
The crowd is vociferously booing Simon Diamond.
Simon Diamond chops Jimmy Snuka.
The crowd is vociferously booing Simon Diamond.
Simon Diamond uses a bodyslam on Jimmy Snuka.
Simon Diamond tags out to Don Juan.
Don Juan hits a flying forearm on Jimmy Snuka.
Phillip McAlpine counts: One, kickout.
Don Juan tags out to Michael Shane.
Michael Shane whips Jimmy Snuka into the ropes.
Michael Shane misses with a clothesline.
Jimmy Snuka hits Michael Shane with a kick.
Jimmy Snuka nails Michael Shane with a reverse neckbreaker.
Jimmy Snuka has the crowd going wild.
Michael Shane begs off.
Jimmy Snuka goes for a kneedrop, but Michael Shane rolls out of the way.
Michael Shane goes for a dropkick, but Jimmy Snuka side-steps and Michael Shane
only hits air.
The crowd is going crazy.
Michael Shane begs off.
Jimmy Snuka executes the Superfly Splash on Michael Shane.
Phillip McAlpine counts: One, two, Frankie Kazarian doesn't make it in time...
three.
Jimmy Snuka has the crowd going wild.

The winners are The Oldschool Express. Time of match: 0:44:01

Number-One-Contenders-Four Corners Match:
The Oldschool Express (Arn Anderson and Jimmy Snuka) defeated
Michael Shane and Frankie Kazarian,
International Thug Syndicate (Atlantis and Simon Diamond) and
Don Juan and Octagon when J. Snuka pinned M. Shane with the Superfly Splash in
          0:44:01.
Rating: *** 1/2

It is a testament to just how much the New York State Tag Team Titles mean that these four teams went for nearly 45 minutes just to determine which team was worthy to contend for it.  Through most of the match, Shane and Kazarian and Don Juan & Octagon appeared to be trying to take it easy on The Oldschool Express out of respect for their veteran status, while the International Thug Syndicate laid into everyone equally.  This gesture of respect backfired big time when The Oldschool Express quickly became the freshest team despite their combined age of over 100 years.  Michael Shane ended up taking the fall, as once again Superfly Snuka flew across the ring with his patented Superfly Splash for the pinfall victory.  The Oldschool Express are the top contenders to the Tag Team Titles!

(A visibly tired Arn Anderson grabs a microphone as the other teams head out.)

Arn Anderson: Damn... that wasn't nearly as easy as it was back in the day...
but once again we've proven that we still have a little gas left in the tank,
and that even now, well past our primes, The Oldschool Express is more than a
match for any team out there!  Isn't that right, Superfly?

Jimmy Snuka: Well brother, I came out fighting in this match.  I had a good
feeling!  As a result, we won the match!  This is the way!

Arn Anderson: Riiiight.  Anyway, Tanaka, Sakata... Next month, you had best
be ready.  The Oldschool Express is raring to go, and by the time we walk out
of the arena, your titles will be around our waists!

Mikey Whipwreck vs. Rico

Rico sends Mikey Whipwreck into the turnbuckle.
Rico charges into the corner, but Mikey Whipwreck moves out of the way.
Mikey Whipwreck runs into the ropes.
Rico hits Mikey Whipwreck with a backdrop.
Mikey Whipwreck begs off.
Rico runs into the ropes.
Mikey Whipwreck hits Rico with an elbow.
Mikey Whipwreck takes Rico down with an eye gouge.
Mikey Whipwreck throws Rico out of the ring.
Mikey Whipwreck rolls out under the bottom rope.
The crowd is giving Mikey Whipwreck a standing ovation.
Todd Booher counts:  1.
Mikey Whipwreck climbs back into the ring.
Rico climbs back into the ring.
Mikey Whipwreck hits a low blow on Rico.
Rico bumps into Todd Booher.
Mikey Whipwreck nails Rico with a back suplex.
Mikey Whipwreck goes for a forearm smash, but Rico blocks it.
Martin Kester takes over as referee.
Rico hits a back suplex on Mikey Whipwreck.
Rico goes for a sidewalk slam, but Mikey Whipwreck counters it with a DDT.
The crowd is on its feet cheering for Mikey Whipwreck.
Mikey Whipwreck executes the Whippersnapper on Rico.
Mikey Whipwreck goes for the pin.
Martin Kester counts: One, two, three.
The crowd is giving Mikey Whipwreck a standing ovation.

The winner is Mikey Whipwreck. Time of match: 0:12:41

Mikey Whipwreck pinned Rico with the Whippersnapper in 0:12:41.
Rating: *** 1/2

This was a very competitive match unmarred by Rico's typical shennanigans... at least until the referee was bumped.  When the referee went down, Rico seemed to lose his focus, and instead of continuing to wrestle attempted to perform CPR on the poor referee, who wasn't hit nearly hard enough to require it.  Referee Booher was quite obviously disgusted when he regained his senses and discovered Rico's mouth where it shouldn't be, and consequently Martin Kester took over as the referee in this match.  Taking advantage of this distraction, Mikey Whipwreck came out with a quick volley of offense topped off with the Whippersnapper for three - Rico may not have been as hurt as it seemed, however, for a close examination of the footage reveals he was apparently more concerned with playing grab-ass with Mikey than kicking out, a fact which sent Mikey scampering for the locker room in a panic as soon as the count was administered.

"The Ironman" Mark Jindrak vs. TBA in a Top Contender's Qualifying Match

And Jindrak's opponent is... Aviv Maayan!  Maayan might just have a bit more than he can handle in Jindrak tonight...

Aviv Maayan goes for an enzuigiri, but Mark Jindrak ducks out of the way.
Mark Jindrak goes for a kick to the midsection, but Aviv Maayan
counters it with a legsweep.
Aviv Maayan goes for a side headlock, but Mark Jindrak throws him off.
Mark Jindrak gets a chokehold on Aviv Maayan.
Timothy Greer warns Mark Jindrak to let go.
Timothy Greer counts: One, two, three, four.
Timothy Greer counts: One, two, three, four.
Mark Jindrak nails Aviv Maayan with a bodyslam.
Mark Jindrak goes for a boot choke, but Aviv Maayan blocks it.
Aviv Maayan catches Mark Jindrak in a side headlock.
Mark Jindrak is valiantly trying to break the hold.
Mark Jindrak manages to grab the ropes after holding out for 5 seconds.
Aviv Maayan hits Mark Jindrak with a European uppercut.
Aviv Maayan goes for a side headlock, but Mark Jindrak counters it with
a back suplex.
Mark Jindrak hits a lariat on Aviv Maayan.
Mark Jindrak puts Aviv Maayan in a boot choke.
Timothy Greer warns Mark Jindrak to let go.
Timothy Greer counts: One, two, three, four.
Mark Jindrak whips Aviv Maayan into the ropes.
Mark Jindrak executes the Mark Of Excellence on Aviv Maayan.
The crowd is cheering on Mark Jindrak.
Mark Jindrak goes for the pin.
Timothy Greer counts: One, two, three.
The crowd is really behind Mark Jindrak.

The winner is Mark Jindrak. Time of match: 0:12:19

[Top Contendership Qualifying Match]:
Mark Jindrak pinned Aviv Maayan with the Mark Of Excellence in 0:12:19.
Rating: * 1/2

Mark Jindrak's first opponent this evening was none other than Aviv Maayan, an Israeli-born British high flier trained by the FWA promotion in Japan.  Maayan and Jindrak didn't really gel especially well in this match, but Maayan did pull out a few impressive nearfalls before The Ironman put him away with the Mark of Excellence.  Aviv Maayan clearly still has a ways to go before he can become a world class worker, but he did show some promise in this match.  Still, Jindrak gained the victory with relative ease, and consequently he will face Cactus Jack later in the show to determine who will become the new Top Contender to the New York State Heavyweight Title.

"Big Sexy" Kevin Nash vs. "The Ironman" Mark Jindrak

Kevin Nash attacks Mark Jindrak before the bell.
Kevin Nash executes an elbowsmash on Mark Jindrak.
Kevin Nash hits Mark Jindrak with the snake eyes.
Kevin Nash hits Mark Jindrak with the snake eyes.
The crowd is booing Kevin Nash.
Kevin Nash hits a lariat on Mark Jindrak.
Kevin Nash whips Mark Jindrak into the ropes.
Kevin Nash misses with a clothesline.
Kevin Nash misses with a shoulderblock.
Mark Jindrak misses with a clothesline.
Kevin Nash misses with an elbow.
Mark Jindrak hits Kevin Nash with a shoulderblock.
Mark Jindrak goes for a roundhouse right, but Kevin Nash blocks it.
Kevin Nash whips Mark Jindrak into the ropes.
Kevin Nash goes for a side suplex, but Mark Jindrak blocks it.
Mark Jindrak uses a gutbuster on Kevin Nash.
The crowd breaks into a "Jindrak!  Jindrak!" chant.

Mark Jindrak covers Kevin Nash.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, kickout.
Mark Jindrak throws Kevin Nash out of the ring.
Mark Jindrak goes through the ropes.
Jeffrey Brace counts:  1.
Mark Jindrak uses a powerslam on Kevin Nash.
Mark Jindrak gets back into the ring.
Kevin Nash follows him back in.
Mark Jindrak whips Kevin Nash into the ropes.
Mark Jindrak executes the Mark Of Excellence on Kevin Nash.
Mark Jindrak goes for the pin.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, shoulder up.
Mark Jindrak sends Kevin Nash into the turnbuckle.
Mark Jindrak runs shoulder-first into the corner, but Kevin Nash
moves out of the way.
Kevin Nash goes for a kick to the midsection, but Mark Jindrak blocks it.
Mark Jindrak goes for a belly-to-belly suplex, but Kevin Nash counters it with
a low blow.
Kevin Nash hits a kick to the head on Mark Jindrak.
A wave of boos is going through the crowd.
Kevin Nash nails Mark Jindrak with a backbreaker.
Kevin Nash is going for the cover.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, thr... kickout.
Mark Jindrak springs to his feet.
Mark Jindrak nails Kevin Nash with a springboard clothesline.
Mark Jindrak goes for a springboard clothesline, but Kevin Nash side-steps and
Mark Jindrak only hits air.
The crowd is booing Kevin Nash.
Kevin Nash takes Mark Jindrak down with a backbreaker.
Kevin Nash executes a low blow on Mark Jindrak.
Kevin Nash hits a chop on Mark Jindrak.
Kevin Nash uses an inside cradle on Mark Jindrak.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, shoulder up.
Kevin Nash executes the Jackknife Power Bomb on Mark Jindrak.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, three.
A wave of boos is going through the crowd.

The winner is Kevin Nash. Time of match: 0:09:45

Kevin Nash pinned Mark Jindrak with the Jackknife Power Bomb in 0:09:45.
Rating: * 1/4

Mark Jindrak didn't even have a moment to celebrate his qualification for the Top Contender's Match later tonight when Kevin Nash ambushed him from behind, quickly using his superior size and strength to take the advantage before Jindrak could get his bearings again.  Jindrak attempted a comeback and even hit the Mark of Excellence, but Nash kicked out, and after a heated exchange of blows, a Jackknife Power Bomb got three for Nash, who laughed at the ease with which he defeated Jindrak, saying "Was that all?  If you're the Ironman, I could probably beat a normal wrestler with my eyes closed."  Jindrak did not have time to comment, or even to rest, as "Born to Be Wild" hit, and Cactus Jack came out for the Top Contender's Match.  

Can Jindrak come back from this defeat?  He's proven before that he has incredible stamina, but he hadn't taken a move as impactful as the Jackknife Power Bomb in those cases.  We shall see!

Cactus Jack vs. "The Ironman" Mark Jindrak in a Top Contender's Match

Mark Jindrak runs into the ropes.
Mark Jindrak misses with an elbow.
Mark Jindrak hits Cactus Jack with a kick.
Mark Jindrak takes Cactus Jack down with a sidewalk slam.
Mark Jindrak nails Cactus Jack with an elbowdrop.
Mark Jindrak nails Cactus Jack with a vertical suplex.
Mark Jindrak hits Cactus Jack.
The crowd is behind Mark Jindrak all the way.
Cactus Jack punches Mark Jindrak.
Cactus Jack goes for a kick to the midsection, but Mark Jindrak blocks it.
Mark Jindrak executes the Mark Of Excellence on Cactus Jack.
The crowd is behind Mark Jindrak all the way.
Mark Jindrak goes for the pin.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, kickout.
Mark Jindrak goes for a kick to the midsection, but Cactus Jack blocks it.
Cactus Jack runs into the ropes.
Mark Jindrak hits Cactus Jack with a shoulderblock.

Cactus Jack comes back and rocks Mark Jindrak with an elbow.
Cactus Jack goes for a Cactus Clothesline, but Mark Jindrak blocks it.
Mark Jindrak throws Cactus Jack out of the ring.
Mark Jindrak goes through the ropes.
Jeffrey Brace counts:  1.
Mark Jindrak reenters the ring.
Cactus Jack climbs back into the ring.
Mark Jindrak hits Cactus Jack with a kick to the midsection.
Mark Jindrak whips Cactus Jack into the ropes.
Mark Jindrak hits Cactus Jack with a lariat.
Mark Jindrak goes for an elbowdrop, but Cactus Jack rolls out of the way.
Cactus Jack uses a DDT on Mark Jindrak.
The crowd is on its feet cheering for Cactus Jack.
Cactus Jack takes Mark Jindrak down with a facerake.
Cactus Jack goes for a series of forearm smashes, but Mark Jindrak
ducks out of the way.
Mark Jindrak executes the Mark Of Excellence on Cactus Jack.
The chants for Mark Jindrak are deafening.
Mark Jindrak goes for the pin.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, kickout.
Mark Jindrak throws Cactus Jack out of the ring.
Jeffrey Brace counts: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine,
Cactus Jack reenters the ring.
Mark Jindrak kicks Cactus Jack.
The crowd is behind Mark Jindrak all the way.
Mark Jindrak chops Cactus Jack.
The chants for Mark Jindrak are deafening.
Mark Jindrak executes a flying axhandle on Cactus Jack.
The crowd is behind Mark Jindrak all the way.
Mark Jindrak uses a powerslam on Cactus Jack.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, kickout.
Mark Jindrak takes Cactus Jack down with a Gorilla Press.
Mark Jindrak executes a Gorilla Press on Cactus Jack.
The crowd is behind Mark Jindrak all the way.
Mark Jindrak whips Cactus Jack into the ropes, but Cactus Jack reverses it.

Mark Jindrak is going for the pin.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, shoulder up.
Mark Jindrak goes for a belly-to-belly suplex, but Cactus Jack counters it with
a punch.
Cactus Jack goes for a jab, but Mark Jindrak blocks it.
Mark Jindrak uses a springboard clothesline on Cactus Jack.
Mark Jindrak takes Cactus Jack down with an inside cradle.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, thr... shoulder up.
Mark Jindrak goes for a lariat, but Cactus Jack counters it with
a Fujiwara armbar.
Mark Jindrak tries to escape the hold.
Mark Jindrak is valiantly trying to break the hold.
Mark Jindrak tries to escape the hold.
Mark Jindrak grabs the ropes after being trapped for 15 seconds.
Cactus Jack executes the Double Arm DDT on Mark Jindrak.
The crowd erupts.
Cactus Jack goes for the pin.
Jeffrey Brace counts: One, two, three.
The crowd is going into a frenzy.

The winner is Cactus Jack. Time of match: 0:11:14

Number-One-Contenders-Match:
Cactus Jack pinned Mark Jindrak with the Double Arm DDT in 0:11:14.
Rating: ****

Mark Jindrak was decidedly out of it during this match - perhaps even suffering the effects of a minor concussion from Nash's Jackknife.  Despite this, he still dished out a hell of a lot of punishment to Cactus Jack, and if he had been facing anyone else, it probably would have been enough to get the win.  If there is one thing Cactus Jack excels in, however, it is absorbing punishment and coming back for more.  Jindrak beat Jack from pillar to post, and each and every time he went for the pin, Jack kicked out with his characteristic borderline psychotic/masochistic fury.  As the minutes passed, Jindrak became increasingly tired, and as his attacks came less often and with less impact, Cactus Jack pulled out all the stops, first trapping Jindrak in an armbar (a move uncharacteristic of Jack's hardcore style) before turning that into a Double Arm DDT for the win!  Mark Jindrak has been rope-a-doped by Cactus Jack, who has become the new Top Contender!

Masato Tanaka & Wataru Sakata vs. Lance Storm & Kid Kash in a Non-Title Match

Masato Tanaka punches Kid Kash.
Masato Tanaka goes for a kick to the midsection, but Kid Kash counters it with
a legsweep.
Kid Kash tags out to Lance Storm.
Lance Storm and Kid Kash hit Masato Tanaka with a double vertical suplex.
Kid Kash leaves the ring.
Lance Storm puts Masato Tanaka in a chokehold.
Todd Booher warns Lance Storm to let go.
Todd Booher counts: One, two, three, four.
Lance Storm gives him an enzuigiri, but Masato Tanaka doesn't budge.
Lance Storm punches Masato Tanaka.
Lance Storm further incites the crowd.
Masato Tanaka punches Lance Storm.
The crowd breaks into a "Dangan!  Dangan!" chant.
Lance Storm kicks Masato Tanaka.
Lance Storm chops Masato Tanaka.
Lance Storm whips Masato Tanaka into the ropes.

Wataru Sakata nails Kid Kash with a roundhouse kick.
Wataru Sakata hits a kneelift on Kid Kash.
Wataru Sakata takes Kid Kash down with a waistlock takedown.
Wataru Sakata hits a kneelift on Kid Kash.
Wataru Sakata hits Kid Kash with a Tombstone.
Wataru Sakata takes Kid Kash down with a series of kicks to the midsection.
Wataru Sakata hits a kick to the midsection on Kid Kash.
Wataru Sakata executes a palm blow on Kid Kash.
Wataru Sakata hits a high knee on Kid Kash.
Wataru Sakata is going for the pin.
Todd Booher counts: One, two, in the ropes...
Wataru Sakata executes a chop on Kid Kash.
Wataru Sakata runs into the ropes.
Wataru Sakata goes for a spinning heel kick but Kid Kash pulls Todd Booher
in the way !
Kid Kash tags out to Lance Storm.
Kid Kash leaves the ring.
Lance Storm hits Wataru Sakata with a jawbreaker.

Wataru Sakata enters the ring to make it two-on-one.
Wataru Sakata leaves the ring.
Masato Tanaka uses a slap on Lance Storm.
Masato Tanaka executes a forearm to the back on Lance Storm.
Masato Tanaka hits the Diamond Dust on Lance Storm.
Masato Tanaka executes a legdrop on Lance Storm.
Masato Tanaka throws Lance Storm out of the ring.
Todd Booher counts: one, two, three, four, five, Lance Storm reenters the ring.
Masato Tanaka nails Lance Storm with a German suplex.
Todd Booher counts: One, two, shoulder up.
Masato Tanaka executes the Roaring Elbow on Lance Storm.
The crowd is on its feet cheering for Masato Tanaka.
Masato Tanaka goes for the pin.
Todd Booher counts: One, two, three.
The crowd is on its feet cheering for Masato Tanaka.

The winners are Masato Tanaka and Wataru Sakata. Time of match: 0:17:11

Masato Tanaka and Wataru Sakata defeated Lance Storm and Kid Kash when M. Tanaka
pinned L. Storm with the Roaring Elbow in 0:17:11.
Rating: *** 1/4

Masato Tanaka and Wataru Sakata proved why they are the tag team champions here, triumphing in non-title action against Lance Storm and Kid Kash, two extremely accomplished athletes.  This match was hard-hitting from beginning to end, with Sakata bringing his martial arts and submission skills to bear while Tanaka outbrawled whichever man stepped into the ring with him.  Tanaka picked up the victory for his team with a stiff Roaring Elbow to Lance Storm's temple, knocking him out cold for an easy three count.

(We head backstage now, where Alex Wright and Jonny Storm are preparing for
their match together.  El Mephisto sits in a corner watching a monitor.)

Jonny Storm: Alex, whatever happens I want you to remember: this is a friendly
contest.  No matter who walks out with the title, we both win because New
Europe still holds the gold.  That's the plan.  This match is just to keep
someone from outside the group from getting a shot.

Alex Wright: Ja ja, I know.  Someone like Cactus Jack.

Jonny Storm: That can't be helped.  I'm confident, though, that whichever of us
walks out with the title will be up to the task of defeating Cactus Jack.  I've
done it myself more times than I can count... and I know you're just as
capable.

Alex Wright: Thank you.

(MsChif approaches)

MsChif: Hey, guys... what do you want me to do in this match?  I mean, I guess
I can cheer for both of you from ringside, but...

Alex Wright: No.  Stay back here.  This is between Jonny and myself.  It is
simply a friendly competition, and whoever is the better man this evening will
walk out with the title.  It is as simple as that.

Jonny Storm: What he said.  We'll be fine.  Now... where's Sabin?

El Mephisto: I have not seen him.

MsChif: Well, he wasn't booked in a match this month... from the looks of
things he decided to take the day off.

Jonny Storm: How much are we paying him, again?

MsChif: A lot.  More than you're paying me... and I actually try to help out a
bit...

Jonny Storm: I'll have a talk with Sabin next time I see him.  For now,
though... we're up.  Good luck, my friend.

Alex Wright: Das ist gut, Jonny.  And to you.

"The British Sensation" Jonny Storm vs. "The Deutschland Destroyer" Alex Wright for the New York State Heavyweight Title

Alex Wright sets up Jonny Storm on the turnbuckle.
Alex Wright executes a belly-to-belly superplex on Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright executes the Bavarian Neckbreaker on Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright acknowledges the portion of the crowd which is cheering him.
Alex Wright goes for the pin.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, in the ropes...
Alex Wright attempts to place Jonny Storm on the turnbuckle, but Jonny Storm
blocks it.
Alex Wright hits the Deutsch Suplex on Jonny Storm.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, kickout.
Alex Wright hits Jonny Storm with a bulldog.
Alex Wright runs into the ropes.
Jonny Storm goes for a kick to the head, but Alex Wright blocks it.
Alex Wright whips Jonny Storm into the turnbuckle.
Alex Wright charges into the corner.
Alex Wright places Jonny Storm on the turnbuckle.
Alex Wright uses a belly-to-belly superplex on Jonny Storm.

Alex Wright hits Jonny Storm with a slingshot bodyblock.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, kickout.
Alex Wright takes Jonny Storm down with the Deutsch Suplex.
Ted Blandford counts: One, shoulder up.
Alex Wright uses a flying bodypress on Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright uses the ropes for leverage.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, in the ropes...
Alex Wright goes for a back heel kick, but Jonny Storm ducks out of the way.
Jonny Storm runs into the ropes.
Alex Wright hits Jonny Storm with a kick.
Alex Wright executes the Bavarian Neckbreaker on Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright goes for the pin.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, shoulder up.
Alex Wright executes an enzuigiri to the face on Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright nails Jonny Storm with a spinning leg lariat.
Alex Wright whips Jonny Storm into the ropes.
Alex Wright hits a Frankensteiner on Jonny Storm.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, kickout.

Alex Wright chops Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright uses an inverted power bomb on Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright dances for the crowd.
Alex Wright is getting a pissed look amidst all the boos.
Alex Wright executes a flying headbutt on Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright pulls the tights.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, thr... shoulder up.
Alex Wright sends Jonny Storm into the turnbuckle.
Alex Wright whips Jonny Storm into the ropes.
Alex Wright misses with a clothesline.
Alex Wright misses with a kick.
Jonny Storm hits Alex Wright with a kick.
Jonny Storm climbs to the top turnbuckle, but Alex Wright nails him
in the stomach.
Jonny Storm falls onto the top turnbuckle.
Alex Wright nails Jonny Storm with a belly-to-belly superplex.
Alex Wright is going for the cover.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, thr... shoulder up.
Alex Wright executes the Bavarian Neckbreaker on Jonny Storm.
Alex Wright seemingly enjoys the boos.
Alex Wright goes for the pin.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, three.
Alex Wright seemingly enjoys the boos.

The winner is Alex Wright. Time of match: 0:13:45

Match with Managers Banned From Ringside:
Alex Wright pinned Jonny Storm with the Bavarian Neckbreaker in 0:13:45.
Rating: **** 1/4
(Alex Wright retained the New York State Heavyweight Title.)

What a contest!  Alex Wright and Jonny Storm went all out against each other just as they had promised, and perhaps due to their familiarity with each other's styles, they had a hell of a match.  Alex Wright took full advantage of the fact that Jonny Storm had already competed in a "warmup" match earlier this evening to hit as many moves from his own arsenal of high flying maneuvers as possible.  Normally doing so would be exceedingly dangerous, but with Storm already worn out it worked beautifully.  Finally, after a series of stiff suplexes and two applications of the Bavarian Neckbreaker, the third time proved to be the charm, and Alex Wright won this hard-fought battle and retained the New York State Heavyweight Title.

Jonny Storm looked visibly upset at losing, but after a few moments he offered his hand to his good friend, who shook it with a smile as the crowd booed both men heartily.

Your Main Event:
"Violent R" Ron Harris & The Undertaker vs. Harlem Heat

Ted Blandford counts:  2.
The Undertaker sets up Stevie Ray on the announcers' table.
The Undertaker executes the Tombstone through the table.
The table is broken in half.
Ted Blandford counts:  3.
The Undertaker executes a clothesline on Stevie Ray.
Ted Blandford counts:  4.
Ted Blandford counts:  5.
The Undertaker works the crowd.
There are lots of chants for The Undertaker.
The Undertaker works the crowd.
There are lots of chants for The Undertaker.
The Undertaker works the crowd.
There are lots of chants for The Undertaker.
The Undertaker knocks Stevie Ray into the ringsteps.
Ted Blandford counts:  6.
The Undertaker gets back into the ring.

Stevie Ray enters the ring.
Stevie Ray nails Ron Harris with a bodyslam.
Booker T executes the Harlem Hangover and goes for the pin.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, shoulder up.
Booker T hits Ron Harris with a spin kick.
Booker T executes a bodyslam on Ron Harris.
Booker T hits Ron Harris with a forearm smash.
Booker T goes for an abdominal stretch, but Ron Harris counters it with
an elbowsmash.
Ron Harris goes for a belly-to-belly suplex, but Booker T counters it with
a facerake.
Booker T nails Ron Harris with a DDT.
The boos are resurfacing again.
Booker T takes Ron Harris down with a kick to the midsection.
Booker T hits a vertical suplex on Ron Harris.
Booker T takes Ron Harris down with the Book End.
Booker T executes a dropkick on Ron Harris.

The Undertaker goes for a DDT, but Booker T counters it with a low blow.
The Undertaker inadvertedly knocks down Ted Blandford.
Booker T goes for a Hotshot, but The Undertaker counters it with a lariat.
The Undertaker executes a sidewalk slam on Booker T.
The Undertaker goes for a headsmash into the turnbuckle, but Booker T blocks it.
Booker T tags out to Stevie Ray.
Stevie Ray nails The Undertaker with a punch.
Stevie Ray runs into the ropes.
The Undertaker gives him a powerslam, but Stevie Ray doesn't even care.
Stevie Ray hits a kick to the midsection on The Undertaker.
Stevie Ray uses a fist to the midsection on The Undertaker.
Stevie Ray kicks The Undertaker.
Stevie Ray hits The Undertaker.
The crowd breaks into a "We want Booker" chant.
The Undertaker punches Stevie Ray.
Stevie Ray kicks The Undertaker.
A wave of boos is going through the crowd.
Stevie Ray kicks The Undertaker.
A wave of boos is going through the crowd.
The Undertaker hits Stevie Ray.
The crowd is really behind The Undertaker.
The Undertaker kicks Stevie Ray.
There are lots of chants for The Undertaker.
The Undertaker whips Stevie Ray into the ropes.
Stevie Ray hits The Undertaker with a kick.
Stevie Ray hits an elbowdrop on The Undertaker.
Stevie Ray gives him a fist to the midsection, but The Undertaker doesn't budge.
Stevie Ray gives the sign for the Slapjack.
Stevie Ray executes the Slapjack on The Undertaker.
Stevie Ray goes for the pin.
There is no referee to count.
Keith Bancroft comes running down to the ring.
Keith Bancroft counts: One, two, kickout.

Stevie Ray punches The Undertaker.
Stevie Ray is eliciting a sizable round of boos.
Stevie Ray goes for a punch, but The Undertaker blocks it.
The Undertaker executes a bodyslam turnbuckle smash on Stevie Ray.
Ron Harris enters the ring to make it two-on-one.
The Undertaker and Ron Harris hit Stevie Ray with a double headbutt.
Booker T enters the ring and lays out Ron Harris.
Stevie Ray and Booker T whip The Undertaker into the ropes.
They hit The Undertaker with a double clothesline.
Booker T leaves the ring.
Stevie Ray takes The Undertaker down with a forearm to the back.
Stevie Ray gives the sign for the Slapjack.
Stevie Ray executes the Slapjack on The Undertaker.
Stevie Ray is eliciting a sizable round of boos.
Stevie Ray goes for the pin.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, shoulder up.
Stevie Ray goes for a facerake, but The Undertaker blocks it.

The Undertaker throws Booker T into the guardrail.
Ted Blandford counts:  2.
The Undertaker reenters the ring.
Booker T climbs back into the ring.
The Undertaker takes Booker T down with a kick to the head.
The Undertaker executes a bodyslam on Booker T.
The Undertaker executes a kneelift on Booker T.
The Undertaker punches Booker T.
Booker T chops The Undertaker.
The decibel level in the building is unbelievable.
Booker T chops The Undertaker.
Booker T is being booed out of the building.
Booker T chops The Undertaker.
Booker T takes The Undertaker down with a forearm to the back.
Booker T goes for a forearm smash, but The Undertaker blocks it.
The Undertaker executes the Tombstone on Booker T.
The crowd erupts.
The Undertaker goes for the pin.
Ted Blandford counts: One, two, three.
The crowd is on its feet cheering for The Undertaker.

The winners are Ron Harris and The Undertaker. Time of match: 0:26:38

Ron Harris and The Undertaker defeated Harlem Heat (Booker T and Stevie Ray)
when Undertaker pinned Booker with the Tombstone in 0:26:38.
Rating: * 3/4

there's one man in the wrestling business who knows something about respect, it's the Undertaker.  The Undertaker visited LIW today with a mission to teach the International Thug Syndicate the respect that they so obviously lack, and it turns out that he was just the man for the job.  ITS leader Booker T ended up being Tombstoned after a very competitive contest, and when Stevie Ray tried to break up the count he was met with a Big Boot from Ron Harris!  This is quite a defeat for the International Thug Syndicate!

LIW would like to thank WWE for allowing The Undertaker to appear for us in this capacity, and The Undertaker for agreeing to help in this regard.  It is hoped that after this lesson, the Syndicate will learn a thing or two about respect and humility.

After the match, The Undertaker raised Ron Harris' hand in a gesture of respect.  The Undertaker is a true class act, and there are few that excel more in the "big man" style of wrestling than he does.  For him to show respect for Ron Harris, he must have been impressed by Ron's potential...

We'll see you next month!

Card rating: ** 3/4

Match of the Evening: Jonny Storm vs. Alex Wright

*****

Eric "Critic of the Dawn"
VertigoPosted on 02/20/05 at 05:42:16

This was a good card.

You really put Undertaker over, haha, but it was cool how you brought him in and used him.

I don't quite understand how the fans booed Wright & J.Storm after their ****1/4 match.... maybe they booed because the match was so good and they didn't want these guys to stay friends?

Poor Jindrak - he's definatly my fav. in LIW after that earlier display of Ironman-ship (?) a couple cards back. Props to him for putting up a good fight against Nash & Cactus, but that's definatly too much.

I'm not familiar with the two new guys you brought in.
Critic of the DawnPosted on 02/20/05 at 07:03:29

I figure with the kind of indy fed that LIW is, a star of The Undertaker's calibre would be put over huge because he's almost certainly the biggest name (although one could make an argument for Foley) ever to appear for them.  So yes, 'Taker looked essentially invincible, but Harlem Heat got a good deal of offense in on him, and he put over Ron Harris after his victory.  So he gave a rub to a few LIW stars during his brief stay.  Seems pretty realistic to me.

The fans booed for exactly the reason you think.  The match was so good that they were just begging for one of the two men involved (almost certainly Jonny Storm) to turn face.  When their teased dissent was quickly resolved, the fans were understandably dissappointed, and consequently booed both of them.

Jindrak falling to Nash and then Jack was what dissappointed me.  Still, I suppose there's no shame in losing to a guy the size of Nash.  And battling for 10 more minutes against Cactus Jack (and nearly winning several times) afterward just shows how dangerous Jindrak is even when fighting wounded.

You can see a bit about Iceberg (Edward Chastain) here:
http://www.obsessedwithwrestling.com/profiles/i/iceberg.html

Aviv Maayan's FWA bio can be found here:
http://www.frontierwrestling.com/info/superstars/aviv.htm

At the moment, I expect both of them to be pretty much jobbers or lower midcarders, but who can say how things will work out with them?

Eric "Critic of the Dawn"
Critic of the DawnPosted on 02/20/05 at 22:38:11

LIW Newsline - 11/16/05

Night of the 'Taker is already receiving rave reviews from those who were able to attend, and should be available on VHS and DVD sometime in the next few weeks.  You will not want to miss the fantastic match between New Europe leader Jonny Storm and his partner and friend Alex Wright, a match that had fans desperately clamoring for something that would mean these two men would face off again.  LIW will return on December 9 to present what will be the final show of this year.  2005 has been huge for LIW, so don't miss the Final Battle before 2006 right here in Long Island!

After failing to capture the top contendership of the tag team titles and facing a defeat at the hands of Ron Harris and The Undertaker in the main event, the International Thug Syndicate is more than a little upset.  Despite having some extremely talented wrestlers working with them, they have announced that they will be bringing back one of the top high fliers in LIW's short history to support them.  All reports point to this man being none other than Too Cold Scorpio, but we cannot yet confirm that.  Assuming it is, ITS will be adding yet another style of wrestling to their already formidable arsenal.  They already have a power guy in Stevie Ray, a brawler in Booker T, a technician in Simon Diamond, and a submissions expert in Atlantis.  Adding a high flier will make them even more formidable than they already are.

After receiving such lofty praise from The Undertaker, Ron Harris has decided to try to focus on singles wrestling for the time being.  He will still tag with his twin brother Don Harris on occasion, but Ron has made it clear that the New York State Tag Team Titles are no longer one of his top priorities.  Therefore, we should expect to see Ron Harris in Singles action far more often in the future.

"The Ironman" Mark Jindrak has not been taking his defeats at the hands of Kevin Nash and Cactus Jack well, especially Nash's.  Kevin Nash has showed Jindrak nothing but disrespect since both of them joined LIW, and Jindrak has had no recourse but to put up with Nash's words... until last week, when Nash took advantage of Jindrak's decision to wrestle in multiple matches to gain a major victory with the Jackknife Power Bomb.  While Jindrak prides himself on his conditioning and his ability to fight as frequently as necessary, it is clear that he underestimated Nash.  Therefore, he has requested just one match for Final Battle 2005: a singles match against Kevin Nash at the start of the card.  Nash has accepted this match, so next month we shall see whether Nash is able to defeat Jindrak when he is fully rested, or whether his victory was the upset that many considered it to be.

The International Thug Syndicate's new high flier (believed to be Too Cold Scorpio) has leveled a challenge at Octagon, who is considered by most to be LIW's top high flier at the moment.  The Syndicate claims that their man is going to take back that title with ease next month.  When asked for comment, Octagon claimed that he was not impressed, and that he was looking forward to proving once again just how dangerous he is.  Still, Octagon's occasional tag team partner Mikey Whipwreck claims that Octagon has stepped up the intensity of his training regimen by several notches - clearly he doesn't want to leave anything to chance.

We will have more, including a detailed look at the Cactus Jack vs. Alex Wright title match on the next Newsline.

LIW Top 5
Champion: Alex Wright

1) Cactus Jack - Cactus Jack triumphs in a four man tournament for top contender status, defeating Edward Chastain and "The Ironman" Mark Jindrak in one night to earn himself a shot at Alex Wright at Final Battle 2005.  Cactus Jack has been fighting Jonny Storm's New Europe since the very beginning, and next month he will have the opportunity to take something extremely valuable to them: the New York State Heavyweight Title!

2) "The Ironman" Mark Jindrak - Jindrak comes up short against Kevin Nash and Cactus Jack, but still goes over Aviv Maayan in the qualifying round of the top contender's tournament.  Despite suffering two losses at Night of the 'Taker, Jindrak's spectacular 6-3 record more than speaks for itself.

3) Simon Diamond - Simon Diamond looked very good in the Tag Team Contender's match, and indeed was possibly the most dominant man in that entire match.  Despite not winning, he appears to be an extremely credible threat to the titles.  With the backing of the International Thug Syndicate, Diamond may well be in line for a title shot.

4) "The Enforcer" Arn Anderson - Arn Anderson's Oldschool Express successfully became the top contenders to the Tag Team Titles after a 45 minute match, and Anderson was in rare form despite his advancing age.  He has earned the shot that he will get at the Tag Team Titles, and his victory brings him one step higher in the Top 5 than he was last month.

5) Mikey Whipwreck - Mikey may not be facing to quality opponents in singles matches, but he is undefeated, and that counts for a lot.  Still, unless he can gain victories over people a bit higher up the card, it's doubtful that he'll break out of the bottom half of the Top 5.

*****

Eric "Critic of the Dawn"
VertigoPosted on 02/21/05 at 06:11:25

Bringing in Too Cold Scorpio would be a great idea for ITS. ITS could very well rule in LIW with the contrast in styles they would achieve with the addition of Scorpio.

It was good to see Jindrak's losses didn't push him further down the Top 5. I'm hoping he gets a victory over Nash at Final Battle 2005 and gets a shot to prove himself against someone the likes of Alex Wright. A Jindrak/Wright matchup would be a top notch wrestling contest and in LIW's case, has the potential to draw huge!
Critic of the DawnPosted on 02/22/05 at 20:31:59

LIW Newsline - 12/2/05

We are one week away from Final Battle 2005, and the card so far is looking very solid.  Both titles will be defended in what is sure to be a very solid night of action.  If you haven't been to a Long Island Wrestling show yet, you owe it to yourself to catch this one, as it looks like things are going to be very good indeed.

As you may have read on major wrestling news sites, LIW's Don Juan was recently involved in an "incident" in a Manhatten bar when WWE was in town.  Apparently he and WWE's Paul London had yet another confrontation, which escalated into an all out brawl when London made a crack about Don Juan's sexual preference.  Bouncers quickly seperated both of them, who consequently spent the night in the police station.  This is obviously not behavior becoming of an LIW wrestler or a WWE superstar, so Long Island Wrestling has issued Don Juan a one month suspension without pay to think about showing a bit more professionalism in public.  We are told that WWE is also planning disciplignary action against Paul London.  While London and Don Juan have had an issue with each other for quite some time, both WWE and LIW agree that the way they acted was totally out of line and inappropriate.

One match to watch at next week's show is going to be the New York State Tag Team Title match between The Oldschool Express and Tanaka & Sakata.  Both of these teams are undefeated in tag team action, and all four of these men are exceedingly talented in the ring.  This match should be an interesting showcase of traditional American chain wrestling against hardhitting Japanese strong style strikes and submissions.  Many insiders are giving the edge in this match to Tanaka and Sakata, but The Oldschool Express has proved that they are not to be underestimated.  Who will walk out of Long Island the Tag Team Champions next week?

LIW officials have decided that we should go into 2006 with a clear idea of who the top challenger to Cactus Jack or Alex Wright's New York State Heavyweight Title is.  Consequently, a match has been put together featuring four of the most deserving wrestlers on the roster in a match to determine the new Top Contender.  In this match, Frank Shamrock will face New Europe's Mercenary Chris Sabin, International Thug Syndicate member Simon Diamond, and the still undefeated Mikey Whipwreck.  All of these men are looking forward to this opportunity to earn a shot at the title... with the exception of Mikey Whipwreck, who practically peed himself in fear when he was informed.

Here is an in-depth rundown of the two contenders in the New York State Heavyweight Title match at Final Battle 2005:

The Challenger:
Cactus Jack
6'4" 280 lbs
Signiture Move: Double Arm DDT

Cactus Jack has had issues ever since founding LIW, suffering a long string of defeats at the hands of New Europe founder Jonny Storm until he finally gave in to his rage and reverted to his old Cactus Jack persona.  Cactus Jack's hardcore brawling has proven to be extremely effective against New Europe to the point that he has gone from a source of notoreity for them to a major thorn in their side.  His victory at Night of the 'Taker gives him the opportunity to finally strike back at Jonny Storm by taking the New York State Heavyweight Title away from New Europe, and if anyone can do it, Cactus Jack can.  Jack's brawling skills are nearly unmatchesd, and his willingness to take extreme risks for any gain make him the kind of dangerously unpredictable opponent that simply cannot be prepared for.  With a size and strength advantage as well, Jack appears to be a major threat to the title.

The Champion:
"The Deutschland Destroyer" Alex Wright
6'2" 222 lbs
Signiture Move: Bavarian Neckbreaker

Alex Wright has successfully held onto the title for the past six months after taking it from Kensuke Sasaki in a huge upset.  While Sasaki's wrestling style focused far more on power moves and submissions than Cactus Jack's, there are a lot of similarities in these two matchups.  Like in the match where he won the title, Wright gives up approximately 50 pounds to his challenger, who is built much more solidly in comparison.  And like in that match, Wright faces an opponent who can take him apart if given the opportunity.  Cactus Jack has shown that he doesn't deal well with a high flying speed based offense.  While Alex Wright is far from the master of that style that Jonny Storm is, he is still significantly faster than Cactus Jack.  This should be the focus of his offense throughout the match, as trying to take Jack to the mat or utilize his suplexes could land Alex Wright in a very difficult spot.  If Wright plays this match smart, he can take advantage of his strengths to defeat Cactus Jack... if not... there's a reason that Foley has held a World Title three times in his career.

Matches Confirmed for Final Battle 2005:
* Mark Jindrak vs. Kevin Nash
* The Oldschool Express vs. Masato Tanaka & Wataru Sakata for the New York State Tag Team Titles
* Octagon vs. ITS' high flier (Too Cold Scorpio?)
* Mikey Whipwreck vs. Simon Diamond vs. Chris Sabin vs. Frank Shamrock in a Top Contendership match
* Cactus Jack vs. Alex Wright for the New York State Heavyweight Title

Also confirmed for the show are Booker T, Ron Harris, Stevie Ray, Sgt. Slaughter, and the team of Lance Storm and Kid Kash.

*****

Eric "Critic of the Dawn"
Snabbit888Posted on 02/23/05 at 07:32:01

Undertaker almost gets punked out to start the show.  Makes sense... I'd be scared of him too if I were TITS.

You and your "warmup" matches.  Glad your #1 contender at least won his warmup match, and looked impressive doing it.  Good job, Jonny Storm!

Very cool that the guy fighting Cactus Jack was Iceberg.  Was this a mystery man or a specific angle?  It was a nice tie-in to old LIW stuff, and the right man went over.  So far, you're two-for-two.

The old guys pull it off, showing they can still hang with the big guns.  Will they get the belts off of the Japanese tandem though?  I'm banking on no, but I've surprisingly been wrong before.

Rico plays with Whipwreck's ass!  Rico is LIW's Goldust... do I smell future tag team?  I think I may.

Though I wish Jindrak had at least beat Nash, a very solid showing for LIW's Ironman.  Beats Aviv Maayan, which is expected, fights Nash hard, and still manages to be competitive against  ol' Cactus, but it's gonna be Cactus Jack/Alex Wright.  Interesting... right man won, and that match should climax at Final Battle.

Glad the tag champs won their match.  'Nuff said.

Good title match, and a great way to tease the breakup before telling the fans to suck it (but in a good way).  Now they shall want to see New Europe go down even more.

Main event, though I don't really like a Harris brother getting such a big rub, he did get a big rub from the Undertaker.  Main event went down perfectly.  So, booyah.