June 2004

[managermike99]

River City Wrestling #986
2 Hour Edition of Rage
Taped Wednesday June 2nd, 2004
Air Date Saturday June 5th, 2004

From the campus of Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa
Hilton Coliseum

Attendence; 3,806


The NWA logo flashes quickly on the screen, followed by the RCW logo..followed by,

"Tomorrow America and its neighbour Canada and the rest of the free world, remember the fallen heroes of 60 years ago, who stormed the beaches of Normandy, and took back our freedom, paying the ultimate price."

A silhouette is on a lovely anthem singer in the middle of the ring. The arena is dark except for the occasional flash bulb as she belts out "America the Beautiful."

Silence. Close up of a waving American flag.


Joe Aiello] Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the company that believes in tradition, where old school is not used as a gimmick or a punch-line. Welcome to the heartland of America, welcome to Ames, Iowa, and the campus of Iowa State University!!!

Linley Tolbert] Thats right, only in America do we have the freedom to name a village like this one after a failed TV sitcom actor like Willie Aames.

Aiello] You really have no idea what you are talking about do you?

Tolbert] Do you?

Aiello] Ames has consistently made prestigious lists of the top 50 places to live in America,

Tolbert] ...you mean if you're dead right?

Aiello] And is a world renown center of biotech research and development...

Tolbert] And Charles is in charge right?

Aiello] Oh give me a break,

Tolbert], is this where I'm supposed to call someone a ham and egger?

Aiello] Folks, we have a lot of great action coming your way tonight, not the least of which will be the crowning of our tag team champions, as the Hardamann brothers clash with the Spinebusters.

Tolbert] And don't forget Joe we have the pleasure of hosting an NWA Heavyweight Tournament match here tonight as Nic Cross tangles horns with Orlando Jordan.

Aiello] So without further fanfare lets go to the ring.


Opening Bout
NWA Heavyweight Tournament Preliminary Match
Nic Cross v Orlando Jordan
This match started with Cross in control, but Jordan soon roared back and picked the tempo up a notch. Both men seemed very uncomfortable facing each other, and the match was very tight with little fluidity. However, tempers soon began to rage and the match spilled out of the ring. Referee Jimmy Appleseed got knocked out when Cross reversed a whip and sent Jordan flying into the RCW referee. Cross seized the opportunity to nail a distracted Jordan with a running clothesline. He then set up the PCW star for piledriver on top of a steel chair outside the ring. However, the crowd erupted when Adam Riggs came flying out from the back. Cross saw this in time and released the hold, and Riggs and Cross exchanged punches. Riggs got the better of it by poking Cross in the eyes. By this time Jordan had recovered, grabbed the steel chair and would have wrapped it around the head of Cross if it weren't for Riggs who shocked the crowd by grabbing the chair away from Jordan. Cross flew into the picture and took Jordan down from behind clipping his leg. Cross then rolled Jordan back inside the ring and went to work on the leg for a minute before nailing a high knee lift, and then the finisher. Riggs had already left for the back, and Appleseed regained his consciousness to officiate the end of the match.
Nic Cross defeated Orlando Jordan by pinfall with the double underhook piledriver at 11:07

The announce crew make mention of our own RCW stars who will be traveling around the globe to participate in NWA World Tournament matches this week. They wish the best to Adam Riggs, Jody Christmas, Vendetta, and Manny Silva.


In-Ring Interview;
Joe Aiello is in the ring with the West Hollywood Blondes, Lenny Lane & Lodi. Usual stuff about challenging the winner of tonight's tag team championship match, claiming to be the #1 contenders. The fans cheer them on and they thank the fans for their support. This brings out the Sheepherders, Jim Nancy and Sexton Cage. Nancy tears into the WHB calling them a bunch of west coast idiots, and says they will beat the tar out of them, and then go on to win the belts. Cage tells Nancy to be careful as that ain't tar coming out of them. The fans get on the 'herders case chanting "Naaannncyyy Booyyyy". The WHB have seen and heard enough and attack the 'herders. But in this kind of brawl they are no match for the double tough New Zealanders who quickly introduce Lane to the steel post, and then Lodi to the broadcast table.


The next match was set-up last week when Raymond Bingham told Joe Aiello to pick any name from the RCW roster and he would beat him the following week to prove he deserves to be the #1 contender for the Heavyweight title. Aiello picked the "World's Most Dangerous Man", Ken Shamrock, and Bingham was either too stupid or too cocky to show any displeasure at the choice. In fact he claimed he would make Shamrock tap out to his own Ankle lock submission hold.

Prior to the match tonight, Commissioner Bob Backlund sent out his assistant for the week, Tylene Buck, one of 3 lovely ladies taking a turn as apprentice, and all vying for the position as Executive Assistant. Buck energizes the crowd with her camouflage bikini top which quite clearly does not do the intended job of making anything hard to see, and a pair of tight white shorts, Buck announces that this match has so intrigued Mr. Bob Backlund that he has decreed that in fact, the winner of tonight's match will get a shot at the RCW Heavyweight champion!!

Raymond Bingham comes to the ring wearing his "2001 PWI Rookie of the Year" t-shirt and reminds the audience of not only that prestigious award but also the 2003 WWA wrestler of the year award.

Bout #2
Raymond Bingham v Ken Shamrock
This may have been the best match we have seen in this short re-birth of RCW as Bingham pulled out all the stops to try and get the win over Shamrock. A flurry of flying, standing, and missile dropkicks, aided by a handful of tights or a well placed boot on the bottom rope rendered a couple of near falls. Shamrock had his moments and dealt out some punishment too with German suplexes, a superplex, and several variations of armbars and armwringers, but overall Bingham won the first 15 minutes of this match on points. Bingham rocked Shamrock with a jawbreaker, a jumping neck snap reminiscent of Curt Hennig, and a pair of swinging neckbreakers but could still not get Shamrock to stay down for the count. Bingham seemed to be on the verge of one of his usual temper tantrums which would see him lose control and likely the match, but much to everyone's shock he regained his composure. He applied a front facelock, then a DDT, and got another 2 count. At this point we were 16 minutes into a 20 minute time limit match. He nailed a snap suplex and then his front faceslam finisher, but again only got a 2 count. This time Bingham did lose his temper, kicking the bottom rope and screaming at referee Buddy Lane, threatening him with a closed fist. Shamrock pounced on Bingham from behind delivering a kick to the back of the thigh, and then a short kick to the ribs, and another to the back of the head. Buddy Lane counted, 1, 2, kickout. Shamrock stomped repeatedly on the ankle and the fans cheered in anticipation of what was next, the ankle lock submission. However, before he could apply it Shamrock fell victim to a sneaky kick to the groin and then a leg whip. Bingham rolled towards Shamrock, grabbed a leg, and remarkably got to his feet in the middle of the ring with the ankle lock submission firmly locked on the "World's Most Dangerous Man". Referee Lane asked Shamrock who kept saying "no", but he got too close and as Shamrock managed to topple Bingham, the cocky young star's head smacked into Lane's head. Shamrock recovered and locked the ankle lock submission on Bingham a few seconds after the announcers had called out last minute remaining in this match. The fans went nuts as Bingham began to tap wildly on the mat, but Lane was out cold. Finally Shamrock gave up, released the hold and tried to revive Lane. However, it was futile as the last few seconds ticked off the clock, Bingham managed to literally crawl away as he couldn't stand on his ankle, and the bell sounded with Shamrock still trying to wake up Lane. Shamrock called for help from the back and the paramedics came to attend to the fallen referee.
Raymond Bingham and Ken Shamrock battled to a 20-minute time limit draw


Backstage:
We see NWA young stars, the Hartbreakers, Michael Shane & Teddy Hart walking around backstage, being followed by a cameraman who they are prompting to follow along. They walk to the dressing room door of Commissioner Bob Backlund and knock rather loudly.

Backlund from far inside the room] Who the hell is it?

Hart] Ahh..just a couple of jobbers from up north you ordered. We just need help finding something.

Backlund] I'm kind of busy right now boys, why don't you come back later? Much later.

Hart] Oh this won't take long, and we don't want to tie up your valuable time Mr. Backlund, I'm sure your assistant Tylene Buck could help us out just fine.

Hart & Shane giggle to themselves and pat each other on the back.

Backlund] Well, to tell you the truth boys..she's kind of busy at the moment too.

Hart & Shane look at each other bewildered before a look of understanding crosses their face.

Shane] Okay, Mr. Backlund, it's just that my uncle Jody Christmas sent me...

Backlund] Well why didn't you just say so, wait just a minute.

There is some rustling and banging sounds like moving furniture, and then Tylene Buck opens the door just far enough to peak out, a towel covering her chest.

Buck, whispering] What do you guys need?

Shane] Oh just the key to my Uncle's dressing room. We know he's not here but I have a gift from his mother...

Shane holds up a crucifix dangling at the end of a gold chain.

Shane] ...that she wanted me to leave with his gear. I know he would be very disappointed if he didn't get it.

Buck] Sure, I understand, just a second.

Buck closes the door, and opens it a few seconds later handing them a key, and pointing across the hallway to an unmarked doorway. She closes the door.

We watch as the boys cross the hallway and open a door just a few yards down. Inside the very small room are several equipment bags, but Shane immediately spots the one he is looking for and opens it up. He pulls out some of JC's ring attire and smiles at his partner. Hart turns and smiles at the camera, turns again so his back is to the camera, and unzips his pants. We hear the unmistakable sounds of two men taking a whiz.


Bout #3
Re-Match: Grudge Match Rules (No countout, No DQ)
Ron Waterman v Bam Bam Bigelow
These two big men waste no time reuniting and the match soon spreads to outside the ring. The fans boo as Bigleow gets the upper hand smashing Waterman through a table. Jeers turn to cheers though as Waterman fights back inside the ring and denies Bigelow a victory by nailing the Waterbomb practically out of nowhere.
Ron Waterman beat Bam Bam Bigelow by pinfall after the Waterbomb at 6:49

Post-Match: A very frustrated Bigelow tastes his own blood in the ring as both his and Waterman's foreheads had been busted open. We go to break with Bigelow pounding his fists into the mat in frustration.


Backstage:
Teddy Hart & Michael Shane are getting ready to get into a rental car, and are just giving some final goodbyes to the camera and a message to JC to take them more seriously, as they are the future, he is the past. Hart laughs and says not only are they the Hartbreakers, but if need be they will be the backbreakers. But before they can exit, Pistol Greg Pawluk comes into the picture, wandering by. He says hi to Hart who bursts out laughing which stops Pawluk in his tracks. Shane asks Hart if he knows this putz, and Hart says that he was a student in the Hart Dungeon. Hart tells Shane with a lot of disdain that Pawluk tried to make a name for himself in the indy circuit for years trying to pass himself off as a nephew of the Hart family. Shane begins to laugh, which then sets Hart off laughing as well. Pawluk is insulted and starts to tell the pair off until Hart lashes out with a kick that catches Pawluk in the gut. Hart and Shane are quick to the attack laying in the punches and kicks to an overwhelmed Pawluk. Shane slams Pawluk onto the trunk of the rental car, before the Hartbreakers jump in and squeal away, sending Pawluk tumbling off the car smashing into the concrete parking lot.


<<< cue "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana >>>
The fans are shocked and get to their feet when they hear the familiar music of DDP. The air comes out of the arena like a giant balloon however when Kimberly Page makes her way down to the ring wearing shorts, a tank-top, kneepads, and wrestling boots. She gets into the ring with a mic.

Kimberly Page] Last week Bob Backlund made the biggest mistake of his stay here in RCW. He dismissed me from consideration for the Executive Assistant position, claiming I wasn't loyal enough. Well Bob, you'll have to excuse me because unlike Kim Kanner, Tylene Buck, and Debra McMichael I have gone over your head, as opposed to just reaching your head. I know a way to get onto the good side of the big guy himself, Jack Larkin. And that way is to embarrass a little twerp in the back by the name of Asp Evergreen! So Evergreen, if you're in the back, and I know you are because I can smell your Brute cologne from here, then come on down and lets get it on!

<<< cue "Nookie" by Limp Bizkit >>>
Derek St. Holmes, ESQ comes down to the ring apron with a mic. He tells Page she has no business in the ring with a great wrestler like his client Asp. He says they won't take the challenge because they have nothing to gain. Page tries to goad him into the match by calling them chickens, cowards, etc. None of this has any effect as Holmes walks away, almost reaching the top of the ramp before Page makes one last desperate attempt.

Page] I tell you what then Holmes. You tell Asp, that if he wins I will throw in a box of Oxy-Pads, and I tell you what, he can have this.,

Page bends over and touches her toes, wiggling her backside at Holmes, who trips on his jaw, and drops his mic on his toes, as the crowd cheers and whistles.

Holmes however regains his composure, wiggles his finger no, and backs of the ramp, as the crowd boos.

<<< cue "Asp" by Savatage >>>
Asp Evergreen comes walking down the aisle dressed in blue jeans and a grey hoodie, with Holmes trying to hold him back. Asp has a wild look on his face and pushes past his manager. He enters the ring and goes right after Page, grabbing an early advantage and a handful of hair.

Bout #4
Asp Evergreen (/w Derek St. Holmes) v Kimberly Page
Evergeen grabs the advantage and keeps it as referee Jurgen Hermann comes down to the ring to officiate. Asp could have tried and probably got an early pin but his fascination for Page's backside distracted him constantly. Finally Page fought back with a kick to the shin, then one to the groin, a chop to the throat, and then a "hairacarana", that left Asp grabbing at his head. He was reeling and walked right into a DDT. Derek St. Holmes tried to rush the ring but was suddenly taken out from behind as Eddie Chavez came running from the back. Inside the ring Page blew a kiss to referee Hermann and gave him a wink that caused him to count possibly the quickest, 1,2,3, in NWA history.
Kimberly Page beat Asp Evergreen by pinfall after a DDT, and assisted by a wink and a smile, at 5:12


Backstage;
A camera is set up in Bob Backlund's office, where he is seated ready to make some sort of statement. Standing over him is Tylene Buck.

Backlund] Next week on Rage...

The door bursts open and referee Jimmy Appleseed enters.

Appleseed] Boss, boss,

Backlund] Calm down Johnny, calm down, what's wrong?

Appleseed] It's Jimmy sir, not Johnny.

Backlund] You interrupted me to tell me your name?

Buck] No Bob, he interrupted you first, then you got his name wrong, but then he thought...

Backlund gives her a quizzical look that causes her to stop talking.

Backlund] Haven't you done enough damage already for one night?

Backlund turns to Appleseed and mutters] If only those were brains. Now what the hell is wrong?

Appleseed] It's Buddy, they had to take him to the hospital, he might have a concussion. He's scheduled to referee the main event tonight between the Hardamann's and the Spinebusters for the tag titles.

Backlund] Oh dear that is a problem isn't it...CONSIDERING I HAVE 3 OTHER REFEREES...

Appleseed] Well I guess there is that but,

Backlund] But your right Johnny, those Spinebusters are a devious lot aren't they! I need a man inside the ring that can keep control, that can dish it out as well as take it, a man of integrity.

Appleseed has a big smile, and is puffing out his chest.

Backlund] But where could I possibly find such a man?

Buck] Well I know one man, who is strong, fair, and as tough as the day is long.

Backlund] Yes I know but I am far too busy with administrative matters to ref a match!

Buck] I meant Sam Holiday, I saw him wandering around backstage earlier tonight.

Backlund] That's brilliant!! You may just have turned this night from being a total disaster for your job chances to being a possible home run! Sam Holiday will be the referee for tonight's main event. Thanks for dropping by Johnny.


Bout #5
"Extreme" Jack Voight v Al Collins (/w Sable)
Sable wore a devious smile, and very little else down to the ring. Collins seemed taken aback and embarrassed by Sable's outfit and her flirting with the crowd, but still helped her into the ring feeling sorry for her after her act last week that seems to have made him smitten.
As the match began Sable took a seat at the announce table, actually on the announce table, actually it turned into a bit of a table dance. She did manage to speak enough to tell Bob Backlund to take his Executive Assistant job and shove it up his backside, and that he could eat his heart out, cause there was nothing on her that he could, that sentence was cut short by Joe Aiello.
Inside the ring Collins would have a tough time with such a ruthless animal like Voight on the best of days, but add in the distraction of his own new valet and he was lost in this match. Voight punishes Collins with a bearhug, continues working on the back with a couple of backbreakers, and takes Collins down with a short lariat that literally knocks one of Collins' boots off and tumbles out of the ring. Voight locks on the cobra clutch and Collins submits.
Jack Voight beat Al Collins by submission with the Cobra Clutch at 4:35

Post-Match:
Sable joins a dazed Collins in the ring and helps him to the back, looking very concerned about his well-being, or at least she would if it wasn't for the smirk on her face which seems to come and go.


In-ring promo;

<<< cue "Diamonds and Rust" by Judas Priest >>>
Mist, darkness, mixed with flashes of light bring Diamond "Dustin" Rhodes and Paisley to the ring. He is dressed in a black trenchcoat and boots, she is wearing a purple latex catsuit. Once in the ring she gets down on all fours and cozies up to his leg as he speaks. He mutters more of the same stuff about being the hardest force in the universe, and about being every women's best friend. Then Rhodes says that he has spotted the "Rust" that will ideally compliment his own agenda. Soon enough he promises his new partner will be unveiled. The crowd doesn't really seem to care though, and chants of "freak" are heard sporadically throughout the venue.


Main Event
RCW Tag Team Championship Match
Special guest referee Sam Holiday
Al & Luke Hardamann v The Spinebusters; Bryan Caruthers & Jerry Orth
The Hardamanns start strong, taking the style of the Spinebusters and shoving it right back down their throat with quick tags, cutting the ring in half and using some double-teams on the tags. Caruthers plays Ricky Morton for a few minutes until the Spinebusters manage a double team hotshot on Al and take control. Now it's the Spinebusters turn to use the same tactics, and Luke begins to lose his temper on the apron. He misses a sure tag when Al finally does fight free because he was inside the ring trying to intefere but Holiday would have none of it.
Soon the match deteriorated into a four man brawl, a series of 2 on 1's, and then some real good tag team chain wrestling that brought the fans to their feet. The Spinebusters managed to grab control again when Orth held Al's neck under the bottom rope, yanking up in a slingshot position, and then Caruthers came off the apron with a knee drop right onto the prone forehead of the "Wild Thing".
Luke lost his temper and tried to interfere again, and once again Sam Holiday called it right down the middle struggling with Luke to put him back out of the ring. However, while his back was turned Orth put Al into a piledriver position, Caruthers slid a steel chair into the ring and then climbed to the top rope. "Plan B" Caruthers then came off the top to aid Orth in piledriving the younger Hardamann brother onto the steel chair. After that the pin was a foregone conclusion.
The Spinebusters beat the Hardamann Brothers by pinfall when Jerry Orth pinned Al Hardamann after a stuffed piledriver onto a steel chair at 13:45
[The Spinebusters win the RCW Tag Team Titles]

Post-Match
Luke continues a heated debate with Sam Holiday, and when the two get into a shoving match a bloodied and wobbly Al has to try and step between them. Immediately both men forget their differences for a minute to help Al, only to begin to argue again over who is going to help him to the back. Finally Sam Holiday throws his arms up and leaves it to Luke.

Meanwhile, the Spinebusters grab their newly won tag team belts and celebrate standing on top of the announce table, as we

Fade to Black

[managermike99]

River City Wrestling #987
2 Hour Edition of Rage
Taped, Friday June 11, 2004
Air Date, Saturday June 12, 2004


From the campus of Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho
Holt Arena

Attendence; 2,009


Joe Aiello] Welcome ladies and gentlemen to another edition of RCW Saturday RAGE !! Tonight we are coming to you live from...

Linley Tolbert] ..please Joe, allow me.

Aiello] Oh no, here we go again. Please don't make an ass out of yourself again.

Tolbert] Like I was saying, from Pocatello, Idaho. Where men are men, and women wear sweatshirts proclaiming they are whores!!

Aiello] WHAT ?

Tolbert] Look at them...I, da, ho.

Aiello] Sometimes I can't believe that you are a former champion of South Africa.

Tolbert] Believe it Joe. But here's something that I can't believe, that this arena, here in nowhere USA, was the first covered football stadium to be built on any college campus in America. Of course it's named after a guy named Dubby Holt. I mean what kind of name is Dubby? Did his parents already use up Bubba on the first kid? And you know what else I can't believe Joe?

Aiello] I don't even want to fathom a guess.

Tolbert] Well I visited the local grocery stores here in town and asked to buy some of their world famous namesakes, Pocatello Mushrooms. And none of the stores had them. This one Korean grocer though showed me his and they looked just like normal white mushrooms? What a scam, I thought they were some sort of gourmet, dark mushrooms that you have with wine sauce.

Aiello] ...errr...maybe you're thinking of Portabello mushrooms? You're such a putz.

Tolbert] Well enough of your mindless banter Joe, let's go to the ring as there is a man waiting there with something on his mind.



In-ring promo;
Luke Hardamann stands in the middle of the ring, wearing street clothes, and holding a microphone.

Luke] Sam Holiday! Last week you stuck your nose where it doesn't belong, in my family business and in my match. I was trying to give the Spinebusters a little taste of their own medicine, and you wrestled the chair out of my hands and ended up costing my brother Al and I the tag team titles. I'm sick and tired of goody two shoes like yourself. We're not all 18 feet tall like you, some of us have to kick, scratch, and gouge eyes to get to where we want to be. You may not like it but I don't think these fans really care, as long as the Spinebusters are forced to eat some of their own crap once in a while. Now, I'm willing to give you the benefit of the doubt, only because I know you and my brother go back several years, and are close friends. But I want to hear it out of your own mouth, right now, and I want you to hear it from me, to stay out of our business.


<<< cue "Ain't Going Down 'till the Sun comes Up" by Garth Brooks >>>
The fans are on their feet cheering a long time favourite. They had been giving Luke a mixed reaction, and no where near as loud as they give for Sam Holiday. Instead of his usual charge to the ring, and slide under the bottom rope, Holiday walks slowly to the ring, shaking his head. He enters through the ropes and takes the mic from Luke.

Sam] You know something Luke, there is a fine line sometimes between what animals like Manny Silva, cheats like the Spinebusters, and guys like you, me, and Al do, and the way we conduct business in this ring. Last week Luke, you crossed that line. I did my job, I called it right down the middle. I didn't like to see Al taking all that punishment thanks to the rule bending done by the Spinebusters. But maybe Luke, maybe I have more faith in your brother then you do? As for staying out of your business, well Al is my friend. I know we're not kin, and I know that you are important to him, more important I am sure then I am. However, my integrity is more important to me then any friendship, so if our paths meet again in similar circumstances you can bet I will act the same way. I can promise you Luke that I will not poke my nose into your business. However, as far as Al's business is concerned, until I hear otherwise from him, his business is my business.

Sam tosses the mic back to Luke.

Luke] Have it your way Tex, but this is the only warning you will get from me. Next time the effect will be immediate.

Both men just stare at each other before Sam walks away, with Luke glaring at him.


Opening Bout
Dan "the Beast" Severn v "Lethal" Chris Jons
Jons came to the ring quite agitated from his earlier dealings with the "New Right" squad of Alex Wright, Jack Voight, and now Dan Severn. He wanted to go right after Severn but the Hall of Famer played mind games with the former PWA cruiser, asking referee Jurgen Hermann to check the trunks and boots of Jons for foreign objects. Severn stalled some more by leaving the ring and playing to the crowd as soon as the bell sounded.
Jons lost his temper and tried to nail Severn from behind with a plancha, but Severn was waiting for such a mistake and side-stepped it. Jons wrecked himself on the floor. Severn nailed a German suplex on the floor and then rolled Jons back inside. Another German suplex, a powerbomb, and Severn picked up a real quick win. Severn then rolled out of the ring and left in a hurry, not allowing Hermann to raise his arm in victory.
Dan Severn defeated Chris Jons by pinfall after a powerbomb at 1:40


Backstage;
The camera picks up a rapid moving Dan Severn walking through the backstage area. Joe Aiello stops him.

Aiello] Dan, that was real quick work on Jons, where are you going in such a hurry?

Severn] Do you always stop someone who can cripple a man in under 60 seconds, and ask him an inane question when he is obviously in a hurry? Do you want me to punk out your fat Italian ass?

Aiello] Any truth to the rumour you are dealing with Team Germany and their upcoming World Cup bid?

Severn] My friends Alex Wright and Jack Voight are competing for Team Germany. As I am in RCW I am mapping strategy for them to compete in the World Cup. They are in good hands with Moses Luke, a young man who I scouted last year when I went to a trip in your hometown Joe, Winnipeg.

Aiello] But Dan, you're American, how come you are helping Team Germany?

Severn] Why the hell not? It's not like the ******* who put together team USA considered me, a hall of famer for the team. Nothing would be sweeter then to see my kinsmen lead Team Germany in a route over the Americans including that **** Jody Christmas. 

With that Dan Severn brushes past Aiello and walks quickly down the hallway.


Bout #2
Menele v Marcus Schultz
First appearance for the technically sound Schultz since RAGE and RCW made their return. And it wasn't a good one.
Schultz started strong by keeping Menele off balance with a stick and run attack, consisting of a couple hip-tosses, flying armbar, standing dropkick, and running clothesline. Things turned bad for Schultz though when Menele caught Schultz with a Greco-Roman kick to the gut, and followed up with a clothesline. A series of stomps set-up an overhead release German suplex, which was only a precursor to a wheel-barrow suplex and the pinfall.
Menele defeated Marcus Schultz by pinfall after a wheel-barrow suplex at 4:01


Backstage;
Linley Tolbert is standing in the back beside Kimberly Page.

Tolbert] Kim, I understand you have brought with you tonight a couple of guests that the fans should know very well.

Page] Oh yes Linley, they just happened to be dropping by, and RCW is lucky to have them in the house tonight.

The camera pans backwards and we see standing beside Kimberly her husband Diamond Dallas Page and his friend Robert "Blaze" Bayley.

Tolbert] Gentlemen, what are you really doing here tonight?

DDP] Hey Linely, wassup? We're just chilling out here jack, and banging with some old friends in the back. Just glad you could make the trip with me Blaze.

Bayley] It's been a while Dallas since I've been around the ring and I would be lying if I said I didn't miss it. I've enjoyed pursuing my music but it doesn't provide the same adrenaline rush as you get kicking some idiot's ass all over the ring.

Tolbert] Be that as it may, DDP, I figured you might be here tonight to put out a little New Jersey welcome on Bob Backlund for the way he treated your wife Kim.

DDP] Let me tell you something Jack, my wife can fight her own battles. As Asp Evergreen found out, and as Bob Backlund will figure out sooner or later.

Tolbert] Thanks guys and enjoy your visit tonight.

The interview is breaking up but instead of cutting away we see the camera begin to focus in on something on the other end of the hallway. It looks like a clandestine conversation between Sable and Jamie Knoble.


Sable] ...and what has it got you? Nothing! One match in four weeks of Rage, one lousy match against Alex Wright. A wrestler of your caliber deserves more.

Knoble] Hey I agree with you 100% baby doll, but there's nothing standing around here talking with you is going to do about it.

Sable] Don't be so hasty, what if I told you I could get you a match next week on Rage? Would that impress you?

Knoble] Heck I would love another shot at prime time, but what are you going to do for me? Backlund tossed your ass to the curb like an empty Swanson TV dinner tray. And you fed Collins to the wolves last week. With friends like you a guy doesn't need enemies.

Knoble tries to walk past her but she steps partially in his way. Her arm drapes around his shoulder, her other hand goes to his chest. She smiles at him and begins to whisper something into his ear, all the while caressing his chest. He seems to like either whatever she has to say, or the caressing because he begins to smile.

Knoble] Okay, you get me that match next week on Rage and you can be my manager, for that match.

Knoble walks away shaking his head, while Sable licks her lips.



Bout #3
#1 Tag Team Contenders Match
Sheepherders: Jim Nancy & Sexton Cage  v West Hollywood Blondes: Lenny Lane & Lodi
The WHB gave it a good effort but Jim Nancy was too cagey, and Sexton Cage too strong. The Blondes took advantage of Cage's mistake of going to the top too early to have a mid-match flourish but it lasted only a couple of minutes. The 'herders were ready to wrap it up when they were distracted by the champion Spinebusters who came down to ringside to take a closer look at their #1 challengers.
Cage turned his back on Lodi who then nailed him with a low blow, and rolled him up for 1, 2, broken up by Nancy. Lenny Lane then threw Nancy out of the ring. Lodi hooked the arms of Cage and Lane climbed to the top turnbuckle. Nancy tried to get to Lane but the Spinebusters stepped into his way and got into a shoving match. However, inside the ring, Cage overpowered Lodi, and when Lane came down with a missile dropkick his victim became his own partner Lodi. Cage powerbombed Lane, then delivered a running powerslam on Lodi and got the pin.
The Sheepherders defeated the West Hollywood Blondes by pinfall when Cage pinned Lodi after a running powerslam at 7:52



<<< cue "Choke" by Kittie >>>
Joe Aiello is in the ring to interview "Pistol" Greg Pawluk, who fell victim to a two on one attack last week from the NWAs Heartbreakers.

Aiello] Greg, first of all Jody Christmas couldn't be here tonight, he is at home resting his back, and from what I gather trying to get his blood pressure under control!

Pawluk] That's right Joe, we're both pretty worked up over the disgusting antics of those sophomoric morons. They think the way to the top of this business is to make a name for themselves by running around making jackasses of themselves. Well if you boys want a refresher on what we learned Teddy in the Hart Dungeon, what Stu taught us both, what Bret tried to instil into your worthless ass, then Jody and I can come up the NWA and kick your butts. You just let us know when and where.

Aiello] Well there you have it fans, the challenge has been made. We'll see how the Heartbreakers respond.


<<< cue "Oh Canada" >>>
Playboy Vincent Regliatti comes to the top of the ramp with a mic. Regs is a former RCW tag team champion Eric Scott, and a former RCW Heavyweight champion.

Regliatti] Greg it's good to see you finally found yourself a ride to the top, all the way on JC's coattails. You have all the personality of a 4 day old sponge cake. The fans might not know this but yours truly was also a graduate of the Hart Dungeon, but unlike you I took the tools that were offered and left the "teachings" about life where they belonged, in the last century. Give it up Pawluk, the Heartbreakers have it at least partially right, you have to stand up and get noticed.

Pawluk] Perhaps you would like to put your money where your mouth is and take me on next week in this ring?

Regliatti] You got it chump.



Backstage;
Kim Kanner stands behind Bob Backlund, who is sitting at his desk with a paper in front of him. This is Kanner's week to try-out for the executive assistant position.

Backlund] Hello great fans of RCW, I'm here to announce some great upcoming house shows all through the mid-west, so get a pen and paper ready to take down the date in your town. Starting Monday...

There is a knock on the door and we see a look of exasperation cross the face of the commissioner. He dispatches his assistant Kim Kanner to the door as the knocking continues. As Kanner reaches for the door it suddenly flies open, apparently kicked open by Asp Evergreen, who is standing with Derek St. Holmes, ESQ. Kanner goes flying across the room, knocked right out. Backlund is in shock and the two twits are oblivious to what just happened.

Asp] BACKLUND....we have waited patiently long enough. No match for us tonight? And last week I was humiliated by that bitch Kimberly. What are you going to do about it?

Backlund is ignoring them and tries to walk past them to get to Kanner. This upsets the twits as they don't like being ignored. They stand in Backlund's way, which makes the commish snap. He rocks Asp with a forearm to the chin, then kicks Holmes in the gut and follows up with an atomic drop that sends the young manager into the wall. Backlund rushes to the side of Kanner and calls for a medic.



Bout #4
Re-Match: Winner to get RCW Title shot
Ken Shamrock v Raymond Bingham
The two men met in the middle of the ring and began to exchange punches before the opening bell. This favoured Shamrock who took early control with some swinging punches, savate kicks, a pair of clotheslines, and a cobra clutch suplex that resulted in a 2 count. Shamrock worked over the right arm of Bingham with a series of armbars and knees to the arm. He then wrapped it around the top ring rope and damaged it some more. A back suplex yielded another 2 count and the cocky Bingham was in big trouble.
Bingham backed into a corner though fought back like a champion with a couple kicks to the gut, and then a flying headscissors out of the corner. Bingham then delivered a pair of shoulderbreakers to Shamrock and then stomped away on the weakened shoulder. Bingham slowed things down with a short arm scissors.
The match went back and forth for a few minutes after this including spending some time in a brawl outside the ring. This again favoured Shamrock who looked to be in control in the middle of the ring. Bingham though keeps fighting back and after an eye rake he delivers a stretch slam on Shamrock followed by a well placed kneedrop between the eyes. A back drop driver turns up the heat and yields a 2 count. Bingham attempts a piledriver but Shamrock counters with a back flip, but Bingham manages to cradle him on the way down, and when long-time inept official Jurgen Hermann is making the count he grabs extra leverage with a handful of tights.
Raymond Bingham defeated Ken Shamrock by pinfall after a sunset flip with a handful of tights at 11:34


Promo:
The scene is a dark back alley, it's drizzling, and we hear sirens in the background. Standing against the wall, actually grinding against the wall is a latex clad Paisley. Standing away from the wall, the rain pouring off his hat, is Diamond Rhodes in his customary black trench coat, black boots, black leather pants, and white sweater. His face is painted white, with grey under his eyes.

Rhodes] For weeks I have watched you, fumble and stumble around the set of Rage. You know something is happening but you are not yet attuned to listen for me. I have been calling you, rust to my diamonds. Together we will have both the power and the glory to rule the rings of this place, and anywhere we desire. Together we will give the women pleasure and the men extreme pain. Together we will be diamonds and rust. Bam Bam Bigelow, be lost no more, listen to me, listen for me, I am calling you. Diamonds are the hardest substance on earth, and rust the most destructive. What a team we will make.


Bout #5
NWA World Heavyweight Championship Sweet 16 Match
"The Prophet" Gabriel Moore v Nic Cross
I don't think you could find two nastier s.o.b.'s then these two, with the possible exception of Adam Riggs who just happened to come down to ringside to do guest commentary.
In the ring Moore started things off on a high point with a kick to the groin of Cross before spitting in his face. Cross retaliated with a haymaker that caught Moore off guard. Cross tackled Moore and landed some mounted punches, before dragging him to his feet. This turned into a nasty, ugly brawl. Cross seemed to have the advantage of experience and strength but Moore just seemed more willing to do WHATEVER it takes to win.
Time and again referee Melissa Coates tried to warn both men, but since they both seemed hell bent to slug it out she eventually just let them do as they wished.
Both men were busted wide open and soon bleeding profusely.
Cross tried to bring some order back to the match by punishing Moore with a back suplex, a full nelson, and then a double axhandle chop, but then he lost control once more and tried to choke out Moore. This caused Coates to try and get between the two men. The distraction allowed Moore another chance for a low-blow followed by a chop to the throat and then a hotshot off the top rope.
Adam Riggs left the announce table position and went to the apron. He picked up Moore's Kendo Stick and placed it in the outstretched hand of the fallen Nic Cross!!
Riggs then got up on the apron and began to argue with both Coates and Moore. The fans of course knew exactly what would happen. Cross got to his feet, and before Moore could turn around Cross Bertuzzi'd him in the side of the head with the kendo stick. Cross tossed the stick and picked up the easy win.
Nic Cross beat Gabriel Moore by pinfall after hitting him with a Kendo Stick at 10:49

After the match Riggs stood outside the ring laughing at Cross. The mic picked him up saying, "you're the same old Nic Cross, you still play the game, and you still are my bitch".


Pre-Match:
Nic Cross is shown backstage, he is furious and is shouting that he wants a piece of Adam Riggs right now. Suddenly security shows up in mass and swarms Cross, forcing him to his rental car. Finally, in frustration Cross agrees, gets in his car and speeds out of the arena.


Main Event
RCW Heavyweight Title Match - 3 Way Dance
Vendetta (champion) v Manny Silva v Adam Riggs
All 3 men clash in the middle of the ring exchanging punches in a free for all. That comes to an abrupt halt when Riggs smashes the heads of his two opponents together. He rams Vendetta into the ringpost and then whips him into Silva. Silva sees it coming though and ducks, sending Vendetta over top with a huge back drop. Silva pulls up only to be knocked down by a running clothesline from the Phenom Adam Riggs.
The fans are booing Riggs without mercy as he throws Vendetta outside the ring. He then powerbombs Silva, and looks to win the title without even working up a sweat, 1, 2, Kickout by Silva.
Riggs clotheslines Silva back down and then brings the fans to their feet when he shows unbelievable co-ordination for such a big man nailing Vendetta outside the ring with a plancha! Phenomenal!
Riggs throws Vendetta into the guardrail and then clotheslines him over the rail. He follows him into the crowd, backing the champ up with continued shots to the head. Grabbing the Haitian by the dreadlocks he pulls him over to the guardrail, and tosses him over the guardrail in a show of strength with a release vertical suplex.
However, when Riggs goes to step over the guardrail he is caught by surprise by Silva, who he hadn't seen leave the ring. Silva yanks up on the guardrail crotching Riggs and then smashes his head into the guardrail.
Silva then takes turns stomping away at Vendetta and Riggs. Sensing Vendetta is the weaker of the two he takes him into the ring and nails a bulldog. He goes for the pin, and gets 1, 2, kickout!
Silva continues to punish Vendetta with a neckbreaker, kneedrop, and belly to belly suplex. He goes for the pin, 1, 2, broken up by Adam Riggs coming off the top rope with a splash on both his opponents.
All 3 men are down and take their time getting to their feet. Riggs is up first and dropkicks Silva into Vendetta. But the Haitian is alert enough to catch Silva and send him right back at Riggs with an atomic drop. Riggs takes down Silva with a running clothesline and then collides with Vendetta in a huge collision as both men go for a flying bodypress. Riggs rolls out of the ring for a breather.
Inside Silva is on his feet first and begins to punish Vendetta while keeping an eye out for Riggs. He can't find Riggs as he has retreated into the crowd for a breather. Vendetta makes a comeback and takes control of Silva. Neither man though can seem to finish it off, and after about 5 minutes of one-on-one Riggs makes his way back into the ring. He clotheslines both men down to the ground, and then powerbombs both. He elects to cover Vendetta and would have got the pin, but a fallen Manny Silva reached out, grabbed the leg of referee Buddy Lane and pulled him away from the pin.
Lane was warning Silva when he got run over from behind by Vendetta (thanks to a whip from Riggs). With the ref knocked out Adam Riggs left the ring and returned with a steel chair. He smashed the chair over both his opponents heads. Long-time inept official Jurgen Hermann ran down to ringside but rather then let him make a count Adam Riggs menaced him with the chair until he left the ring and retreated backstage.
Riggs apparently didn't want the RCW title, he seemed intent on crippling his opponents. He tried to nail Silva again with the chair but the Hawaiian managed enough energy to roll away from the swing, roll out of the ring and head for the back. Riggs turned his attention to Vendetta and tried another chair shot. This time though Vendetta ducked under, and turned the tables on the Irish thug with a kick to the gut and a DDT on the dropped chair. Both men were trying to recover as Buddy Lane was getting to his feet.
Manny Silva turned around and ran back into the ring, and sent Vendetta head first into the chair with a bulldog. Silva then laid the boots to Riggs before driving him head first into the ringpost. The former RCW champ then took Vendetta to the ropes and wrapped the top two ropes around his throat. He left the ring and in his controversial fashion grabbed Vendetta's legs and pulled down with all his might, choking Vendetta in the ropes!
Buddy Lane was still too dazed to help out, but Adam Riggs came over and nailed Silva with a baseball slide. Vendetta had just managed to put his feet back onto the ring apron when Riggs took Silva's place outside the ring and began to pull down on Vendetta, choking the champ.
The fans went nuts as from the back came Kimberly Page charging just ahead of her husband Diamond Dallas Page and Robert Blaze Bayley. DDP went right after Silva, with fists of fire, driving him into the crowd. Bayley went after Riggs and after a few punches drove him head first into the ringsteps.
Blaze and Kim Page were both on the ring apron untangling Vendetta from the ropes when Riggs came striking back with a steel chair. He nailed Bayley in the knee dropping him from the ring apron. Then in a terrible act of cowardice he turned the chair on Kim nailing her in the back, and she too fell to the ground.
Buddy Lane calls for the bell, this match is declared a no-contest at 15:43

Riggs lifted the chair into the air in victory, but as he turned to the crowd he was struck from behind by a last ditch effort of Vendetta jumping off the ring apron. The Haitian used all his energy to just try and keep the crazy Riggs pinned to the ground. DDP returns, jumping over the railing and sliding to the side of his wife, as we

..no wait a sec, as the closing credits appear on screen we see Nic Cross jump the rail from the crowd. Cross has returned! He kicks Vendetta off Riggs..he has a sledgehammer! Cross swings the sledgehammer at Riggs...as we


FADE TO BLACK

[managermike99]

River City Wrestling #988
2 Hour Edition of RAGE in Syndication
Taped Wednesday, June 16, 2004
Air Date, Saturday June 19, 2004


Mariucci Arena,
University of Minnesota Campus
Minneapolis, MN

Attendance; 3,116


Statement;
Jody Christmas is shown sitting on the couch in his home, dressed in jeans and a Dallas Mavericks T-shirt. He looks relaxed but that is about to change.

Christmas] This will be my final statement before going to the NWA King of the Ring. Heartbreakers you say I am not a legend which is fine. 

But you know what? I don't even need to sing my own praises as punks like you two do it for me. Tell me why, if I am not a legend, that you would bother to travel half way across the country just to urinate on my ring attire? Tell me why you would choose myself and Bret Hart as the targets to try and elevate yourselves to stardom if we are not legends? Your actions speak louder than any words that I could use. I thank you both for the compliment of your level of adoration, usually only seen from high school girls with a crush.

What you guys did to Greg Pawluk was simply wrong. But now it seems to have back fired on you as Garrison Cade has stepped up to be my partner. Cade as you know is a tremendous athlete, and a real talent. He doesn't need to run around making an ass out of himself to elevate himself to main event status. He has REAL talent, and I am looking forward to joining forces with him once again.

As for you Bret Hart and Lance Storm, just stay the hell out of my way. I have no problem hurting you guys but would prefer to leave you intact, so long after I have my victory over the Heartbreakers, you will still be around in one piece to continue to pour out the punishment on those jerkoffs.

I will see you all at King of the Ring.



Promo segment:
Commissioner Bob Backlund is in the ring with his lovely assistant for the night Debra McMichael, the 3rd and final tryout for the Executive assistant position, following in the high heeled steps of Tylene Buck and Kim Kanner.

Backlund has a mic and calls out Asp Evergreen and Derek St. Holmes, ESQ.


<<< cue "Nookie" by Limp Bizkit >>>

Derek St. Holmes leads out Asp Evergreen to the ring, they are looking extremely cocky.

Holmes] This had better be good old man...

Backlund] Oh it will be skippy, it will be. Listen up you ingrates, after your actions last week, knocking out poor Kim Kanner, sending her to the hospital...

The fans boo, and Debra puts on a fake pouty face.

Backlund] ...it's time for a little bit of payback. Now there is a young man backstage by the name of Eddie Chavez who used to be your friend Asp, but now he just wants your head on his fireplace mantle. And I was going to set up that match now, but you know what? Holmes, you've pissed me off with your arrogance. So, you might as well take part in the action too, I'll make it a tag team match and will find a partner right now for Eddie.

Debra whispers something in Bob's ear, and this gives him a huge smile.

Backlund] Wonderful idea dear. Okay Eddie's partner will be none other then "H2O" Ron Waterman!!!

The fans go nuts and Asp and Holmes jump up and down in indignation.

Holmes] You can't do this Backund, I'm a manager not a wrestler.

Backlund] Well, it's you two against Chavez and Waterman, and you're right skippy, I can't make you wrestle. You can stay in the dressing room if you like, stand on the floor and manage, you can do announcing, or sell popcorn for all the hell I care. But then it will be Asp against those two men, so the choice is yours, and it happens, right now!!


Opening Bout
Asp Evergreen & Derek St. Holmes, ESQ v Eddie Chavez & Ron Waterman
Evergreen & Holmes are relieved when Chavez starts the match, and they try and exploit him as the weakest link in the team. However, Chavez is on fire and more than holds his own. Evergreen and Holmes get nothing going in this match except for the occasional double team or eye gouge. Soon they can't take any more punishment and make a run for it.
Eddie Chavez & Ron Waterman defeated Asp Evergreen & Derek St. Holmes by countout at 5:17


The announce crew, Joe Aiello & Linley Tolbert give us a rundown on what to expect the rest of the show. Vincent Regliatti was slated to take on Greg Pawluk, but since Pawluk was injured another opponent will need to be found for Regliatti. Robert Blaze Bayley will be on hand for a special interview. Jamie Knoble will also see action as Sable has set up a match for him later in the show. The Tag Team titles are on the line tonight when the Sheepherders take on the Spinebusters. Bam Bam Bigelow is expected to announce his intentions to Diamond Rhodes, and finally the main event tonight will be a CAGE MATCH, between Manny Silva and Adam Riggs!!!


<<< cue "Ride of the Valkryes" by Wagner >>>

The fans boo and the announcers rail against being interrupted as the New Right take to the ring. Dan Severn leads out Extreme Jack Voight and Alex Wright.

Severn] Shut the hell up you bunch of mid-western ****. Go home to momma like you belong. That way you can see who she is sleeping with today. I'm not out here for your benefit, you bunch of retards, I'm out here to make a statement to the World. Listen up. The Germans are coming. World Cup, July, the Germans are coming. If you thought that Blitzkrieg was something to behold, wait until you see this little army destroy everything in its path. It's too bad John Fredrickson wasn't still around to witness this!

The fans boo Severn unmercifully.

Severn] Jody Christmas, I saw your little crying session from your house. It's good to see you hiding at home instead of coming here and fighting like a man. You're just proving that you are the little bitch that the Heartbreakers say you are. I'm ashamed to have shared the same ring as you. So, next week, the world has to know, who will stand up to the Germans? What country, whether it be Canada, United States, France, Upper Volta, Sudan, or whatever, who will send their best 3 athletes to come face us in a tune-up? It doesn't matter if you are in the World Cup or not. We will take on the most worthy challengers. The match will be a 6-man street fight. So, if you have the balls, World, then send us your best.

Severn hands Wright the mic.

Wright]
Schließen Sie die Hölle herauf Sie amerikanische Schweine. Wir sind die Deutschen, sind wir das neue Recht, und wir sind in der Welt das beste. Folgende Woche verkrüppeln wir Sie irgendwie weakling senden uns. Die Weltschale ist- so gut wie unsere.

The fans boo The New Right and begin to throw debris into the ring as the 3 men pose for the crowd.


Bout #2
Vincent Regliatti v Shane Madison
Madison is making his first appearance on RAGE since RCW has made its return, taking the place of the injured Greg Pawluk.
This may have been the most exciting sub minute match ever in RCW. It was one long chain wrestling segment, which went from flying armdrags, headscissors, crucifixes, to roll-up's. In the end Reglaitti used a back mounted side roll cradle to pick up the quick win.
Vincent Regliatti defeated Shane Madison by pinfall with a back mounted side roll cradle at 0:58



<<< cue "Tenth Dimension" by Blaze >>>
The fans come to their feet as a legend makes his way down to the ring of RCW. Robert "Blaze" Bayley is all smiles as he high-fives the crowd wearing an Iron Maiden t-shirt, blue jeans, and a blue denim jacket with a "Blaze" crest across the back. Linley Tolbert makes a crack about it being 1989 all over again, but no one else in the arena seems to mind.

The former World champion is in the ring and has a mic.

Bayley] The media have been asking me, Blaze, how has the RCW been treating you? Well all I got to say, and this is coming from a California boy, is that the mid-west farmer's daughters really make you feel all right...hehehehe

The crowd cheers Blaze.

Bayley] But what I don't like is coming back to the same old crap from the likes of a racist pig like Adam Riggs. In fact, after all these years I think I finally have you figured out Riggs. You're not a racist...you hate EVERYONE...probably even your own parents...everyone except for yourself that is. After what happened last week Riggs I've decided to stick around these parts for awhile longer.

The crowd once again cheers loud enough that Bayley has to pause and wait them out.

Bayley] THANK-YOU Middle America! But tonight I'm just going to sit back and relax. Tonight's main event will feature Adam Riggs and Manny Silva one-on-one in a steel cage...no quarter will be asked for...and none will be given. Personally I hope you two kill each other, and I will be in the back, along with half the dressing room, watching it on the monitor, and enjoying every punch, kick, eye gouge, and rake of a bloody forehead across the steel cage.

The crowd cheers once again.

Bayley] Vendetta, you seem like a good champion, but what this federation needs to put it on the map, to put its name beside the likes of the WWF and the WCW is a champion who is known the world around. I am that man, and after I am done with Riggs, I am coming for that title.


Bout #3
Jamie Knoble (/w Sable) v Johnny Rivale
Another first appearance on the new RAGE, this time for "Cool" Johnny Rivale who has a bit of a throw-back "greaser" image, or perhaps he is just white-trash?
Knoble comes to the ring accompanied by Sable, and looks proud as punch to have her on his arm. Unlike when she seconded for Al Collins, this time she manages to keep her focus and stay in the corner cheering on Knoble. The fans cheer for Knoble as well, but they give Sable a mixed reaction.
Inside the ring, while Rivale is a fairly small guy he is also not all that fast. He relies mostly on brawling and taunts, ala a young Roddy Piper. It doesn't take long for Knoble to ground him and then finish the job.
Jamie Knoble beats Johnny Rivale by pinfall after a top-rope guillotine legdrop at 3:53

Sable entered the ring after the victory and embraced Knoble with a rather enthusiastic hug. Knoble looked smitten. Sable grabbed a mic and started to gush on Knoble about how he was such a great wrestler, and between the two of them they would go to the top of the RCW ranks. She said there was no-one in the back that they had to fear, that no-one was going to get in their way on the road to the title.


<<< cue "Flee" by Kindred >>>
The fans popped and then began to boo as Menele made his way down to the ring looking very menacing. Knoble was taken aback and when he looked at Sable she too was looking afraid. Menele grabbed referee Jimmy Appleseed by the collar as he was walking up the ramp and dragged him back to the ring. He walked around to the timekeepers table and rang the bell before entering the ring again. Sable took off between the ropes and stayed a safe distance away from the ring apron. Appleseed elected not to risk angering Menele and stayed to officiate the impromptu match.


Bout #4
Jamie Knoble (/w Sable) v Menele
Knoble started strong trying to get Menele off his game with a hard and fast attack that included dropkicks, a thrust kick to the chest, and a senton off the top rope, but could not keep the beast down. Menele struck back hard with a spinebuster, a double underhook suplex, and a wheelbarrow suplex, and it was all over.
Menele beat Knoble by pinfall after a wheelbarrow suplex at 4:05

Post-Match:
Waiting until after Menele had vacated the premises Sable went back into the ring and helped Knoble to his feet and out of the ring. He seemed pretty dazed and confused, and Sable looked very worried.


Backstage;
A camera follows Sable and Jamie Knoble into the back, where paramedics rush forward and take Knoble from Sable. They have him lie down on a spinal board and immobilize his neck (ummm..too late). One of them snaps at Sable and says he shouldn't have been moved. As they work on him Al Collins comes into the scene and puts his arm around Sable. When she sees who it is she stiffens in shock.

Collins] Remember me Sable? I'm the guy who stuck his neck out for you, only to be abandoned when the action got hot. I guess even though I got stung I got off lucky compared to that poor dude. You really are the black widow of wrestling aren't you?

Suddenly from nowhere Menele is back and strikes Collins from behind with a fist to the back of the neck. Collins is knocked straight onto the spinal board, and sprawls across Knoble. When the paramedics protest Menele responds with a big boot into the face of one, and scoops up the other and runs him into the wall. Collins is on his feet and fires back at Menele with a punch, but it's blocked and Menele clotheslines Collins to the ground. He then turns his attention to Knoble, but Sable is there, covering Knoble's body and putting a hand up, begging Menele to stop. She is afraid, but Menele just snears at her and walks away.


In-Ring Promo;
<<< cue "Won't Get Fooled Again" by the Who >>>
Commissioner Bob Backlund comes to the ring accompanied by Debra McMichael.

Backlund] Well Miss Debra I have to admit you have done a pretty good job tonight of helping me out, keeping things in order. Much better then either Kim Kanner or Tylene Buck.

Debra] Thank you so much Mr. Backlund, I know that I would make a great Executive assistant.

Backlund] Not so fast my dear. Things have got a little more complicated the last couple of weeks. You see maybe I misjudged one Kimberly Page...

The fans cheer the mention of Page.

Backlund] She has shown that she is practical, intelligent, resourceful, and loyal. So in the interest of competition, which is how this search was supposed to be conducted, I think one final competition is in order. Right after the tag team match we will have an impromptu match. You Debra will lock horns with Kimberly in a big ol' pool of grape jello. It will be a bikini jello wrestling match with the first one to remove either the top or bottoms of the opponent to be declared the winner...and the new Executive Assistant. And if either of you declines to participate then your ass will be fired.

Debra] You are a sick son of a bitch. You're telling me you just HAPPEN to have a pool full of jello handy for this IMPROMPTU match?

Backlund] Well you know, just in case.

Debra] That little princess is no match for me, I'm a Texas woman and I will kick her ass.


Bout #5
RCW Tag Team Title Match
The Spinebusters: Bryan Caruthers & Jerry Orth (champions) v The Sheepherders: Jim Nancy & Sexton Cage
Despite their dislike for the Sheepherders the fans were solidly behind the New Zealand duo in this match against the hated Spinebusters.
The 'busters started strong and out-cheated Nancy to start, then wore him down with some armbusters and armbars, keeping him on his knees or his back while they worked with leverage. Finally Nancy got free with an eye rake and tagged out to the younger, stronger Cage. He caught Orth with a kick to the gut and quite unceremoniously delivered a painful looking powerbomb to change the tide of the match.
Cage worked over Orth but couldn't put him away. Caruthers got tagged in but soon was being worked over by the veteran Jim Nancy. The 'herders took the match to the floor, and while referee Melissa Coates was busy trying to get Orth to return to his corner Cage and Nancy double teamed Caruthers using the metal guardrail to full advantage.
Caruthers was busted wide open.
Back inside Nancy and Cage double teamed Caruthers, holding him by all four limbs and ramming his shoulder straight into the ringpost. Jerry Orth entered the ring one more time, this time brandishing a steel chair which he used to nail Sexton Cage, who fell out of the ring. Nancy fled for safety as Melissa Coates called for the bell.
The Sheepherders defeated the Spinebusters by disqualification when Jerry Orth was DQ'd for using a steel chair at 10:05
[The Spinebusters retained the RCW Tag Team Titles]


Bout #6
Bikini Jello Match
Kimberly Page v Debra McMichael

<<< cue "Won't Get Fooled Again" by the Who >>>
Commissioner Bob Backlund comes down to the pool of jello, and he's wearing a referee shirt! Looks like we have a guest referee for this match.

Well the ladies pretty much rolled, played, slapped, and ogled, it's more of a visual thing then a recap type item, until...

Adam Riggs showed up. Debra managed to escape as he had eyes only for Kimberly. Backlund shouted and warned Riggs, but was for the most part just ignored. Scooping her up he slammed her back into the jello, then reached down and emerged with both her bottoms and tops. Security ran out to help Kimberly maintain her dignity but Riggs began to slap them away. He grabbed a hold of Kimberly by the hair and was about to pull her out of the pool of jello and "expose" her, when Robert Blaze Bayley came to the resuce, nailing Riggs with a flying forearm. Those two went at it as RCW officials helped Kimberly cover up and flee to the back.
No Contest 3:32

While the jello match had been going on, the ring crew had been assembling the cage for the main event. Bayley and Riggs fought their way to the cage area and into the ring.

Bayley hammered Riggs with a swinging punch, and a jumping DDT. Bayley was preparing for the Blaze Bomb when Riggs gouged his eyes. A punch straight to the throat allowed Riggs more time to go and fetch a wrench that the ring crew had been using. Bayley turned around right into a shot to the head with the wrench. He was down, and stayed down as Riggs taunted him and spit on his back. Security returned to the scene to help Bayley to the backstage area, his head busted wide open.


In ring promo;
<<< cue "Diamonds and Rust" by Judas Priest >>>

Diamond Rhodes comes to the ring accompanied by Paisley. They are both wearing an assortment of black and white leathers.

Rhodes] Bigelow...you are a powerful force. You have the ability to weaken men like rust on steel. I need you, and judging by your results as of late, you need me just as much. Together we will rule middle America.

<<< cue "The Zoo" by Bruce Dickinson >>>

Bam Bam Bigelow comes to the ring with a weary look on his face. For a long time he stares straight at Paisley, ignoring Rhodes. Paisley seems to shirk from his stare as she crawls behind Rhodes.

Bigelow] I need you? I don't even know what the hell you two are supposed to be! I'll find my stride soon enough and while I have lost a couple, at least I've stepped in the ring which is more then I can say about you. There's an old saying, that if you can't beat them join them. You want me to join you Rhodes, then you're going to have to beat me. Next week, one on one, me and you. Can you handle that?

Rhodes nods and smiles. Bigelow just shakes his head and backs out of the ring.



After a lengthy delay for the live crowd, the cage is finally finished constructing. The announcers inform us that Blaze Bayley has been sent to the hospital for stitches and a possible concussion, and that Kimberly Page has gone with him.

A camera is shown on the backstage area, where most of the RCW roster stand around watching the closed circuit monitor, waiting for the mayhem that is to follow.



Main Event - Cage Match
16' high steel cage surrounds the ring - pinfalls and submissions only, no cage escape - One fall - 60 minute time limit
Manny Silva v Adam Riggs (/w April Hunter)
The two men attack each other before the bell sounds. Riggs gains an immediate upper hand, lacing some forearms to the back of Silva and muscling him to the cage wall. Several knees to the head and gut punish Silva, before Riggs goes for a powerbomb but Silva blocks the attempts to lift him up.
The brawl goes to the mat and this time it's Silva who comes out ahead, mounting Riggs and peppering him with shots to the head.
Silva attempts to whip Riggs into the cage wall but it's reversed and Silva goes into the cage. He bounces off though and ducks under a clothesline attempt, and then nails Riggs with a back elbow.
The two men continue to brawl, each one managing to smash the other's head into the cage and open it up. Both men are bleeding profusely.
Riggs attacks by biting Silva's face, then ramming him into the cage. He goes for a thumb to the throat but Silva deflects it and takes Riggs down with a fingerlock. He lowers Riggs hand to the mat and then drops a knee on the same finger.
Silva nails a vertical suplex, but when he goes to cradle Riggs for a pin the Irishman knees him squarely in the groin. Riggs applies pressure with an inverted atomic drop, followed by a neckbreaker. He goes for a cobra clutch but Silva counters and smashes Riggs' head into the cage.
April Hunter leaves ringside.
Silva continues to punish Riggs but can't put him away. Hunter returns and she has a long thin package which she quickly unwraps to reveal a singapore cane. Inside the ring Riggs manages to keep Silva at bay long enough with an elbow and then a clothesline for Hunter to pass him the cane through the links of the cage.
But Silva is back too quick and throws a shoulder into Riggs driving him back into the turnbuckle. The cane drops to the mat and both men take turns exchanging punches.
Silva delivers a vicious forearm to the face of Riggs and then recovers the cane. He swings at Riggs who ducks and then kicks the Hawaiian in the gut. Riggs nails Silva with a DDT. He puts him up on the top turnbuckle and executes the Phenomenon Performance for the win.
Adam Riggs beat Manny Silva by pinfall after the Phenomenon Performance at 15:51

As we


FADE TO BLACK

[managermike99]

River City Wrestling #989
2 Hour Edition of RAGE in Syndication
Taped Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Air Date, Saturday June 26, 2004

Alerus Center
Grand Forks, ND

Attendance: 2,915


<<< cue "Won't Get Fooled Again" by the Who >>>
Commissioner Bob Backlund and Executive Assistant Debra McMichael come down to the ring to a mixture of cheers and jeers.

Backlund] First off I'm here to congratulate the new WORLD champions, Bryan Caruthers and Jerry Orth, the Spinebusters !!

The fans boo.

Backlund] Yes, I know how you feel, that was my first reaction too. But stop the jeering for a moment, and realize that this is a big vindication for River City Wrestling, it shows that we do indeed breed champions here in the heartland of America.

The fans cheer Backlund.

Backlund] Having said that, I am also out here to make sure the integrity of the RCW tag team titles remains intact. I don't want a situation where we might have someone throw the tag belts into the trash can or similar antics. So, at this time I would like to call out the Spinebusters and hear what their intentions really are.


<<< cue "Till it Sleeps" by Metallica >>>
Bryan Caruthers & Jerry Orth walk down the aisle to a mixture of cheers and jeers. They each have two title belts over their shoulders, the RCW tag titles and the NWA World titles.

Caruthers] Not a trusting sort are you Backlund? You know my momma taught me to be weary of those who don't trust, she said those are likely to be the ones who aren't trustworthy themselves, the first ones to stab you in the back.

Backlund] Oh I trust you Bryan, I trust you and Jerry to do exactly what is best for yourselves, as you always have.

Caruthers] You know something Backlund, you're not as stupid as that bow-tie makes you look.

Backlund] So answer the damn question, what are your intentions?

Orth] We intend to be the best NWA World Champions ever. As for these RCW titles, well they are kind of redundant now, so you can take them...

The fans boo.

Orth] ...from our cold, dead hands, you stupid little turd. We've worked too hard, too long to get every piece of gold we could, we sure as hell aren't going to hand them over. We will travel the globe defending the NWA titles but we will be here on RAGE to defend these titles as well. Starting tonight when we get those idiotic foreigners the Sheep*bleep* in a rematch. And if you suck up enough to us Backlund....maybe lend us that hot little piece of ass Debra for awhile...maybe, just maybe we'll give you a whiff of these NWA World titles too.

The fans boo as the Spinebusters end the interview and display their title belts proudly.


Opening Bout
Bam Bam Bigelow v Diamond Rhodes (/w Paisley)
This match was set up by the freaky Diamond Rhodes' request for Bam Bam to join him as partners in RCW. Bigelow seemed put off by the strange antics of Rhodes but told Rhodes he would partner with him, if Rhodes could beat him.
Well Rhodes surprised Bigelow before the bell by attacking him from behind, a tactic you wouldn't normally associate with a recruitment attempt. Rhodes smashed Bigelow's head into each turnbuckle and then slammed him shoulder first into the ringpost. Leaving the ring Rhodes stood outside and punished the arm of Bigelow wrapping it around the ringpost, and slamming it onto the ring apron. Back inside he whipped Bigelow into the corner and then rocked him with a clothesline. Rhodes kept up the punishment but and after a failed pin attempt he went for the flying bulldog finisher only to have Bigelow throw him off and through the ropes.
Outside Bigelow made a comeback, slamming Rhodes into the guardrail, ringsteps, announce table, and the ringpost. He then worked over Rhodes' back with a bearhug, slam Rhodes back first into the ring apron, then reapply the bearhug, repeat, repeat.
Finally referee Jimmy Appleseed got both men to get back inside the ring. As Bigelow climbed into the ring though Paisley came over and looked like she was going to grab Bigelow's foot. However, the big man saw her and gave her a menacing look which backed her away. This was the time and distraction though that Rhodes needed as he nailed the Beast from the East with a kick to the groin. With his hands covering his injured parts he then fell prey to a pair of elbow drops from Rhodes. A flying clothesline was followed by a pin attempt but Bigelow tossed Rhodes off at a count of 2.
Both men were on their feet and exchanging punches. They went toe to toe, and then took turns coming off the ropes and rocking their opponent with a clothesline. Bigelow went back to the ropes, but this time instead of waiting for him, Rhodes followed him to the ropes and surprised him with a knee to the groin. Appleseed tore into Rhodes backing him away from the ailing Bigelow and warning him severely about the tactics.
In the meantime Bigelow draped himself over the second rope to recover his breath, which made him an easy target for Paisley who used pepper spray into the big man's eyes. Bigelow was blinded and wandering around the ring throwing phantom punches, and Rhodes nailed him from behind with a flying bulldog.
Diamond Rhodes defeated Bam Bam Bigelow by pinfall after a flying bulldog, and pepper spray attack by Paisley, at 10:49


<<< cue "Denial" by Sevendust >>>
The fans boo as Raymond Bingham comes down to the ring with a mic. He is wearing his "2001 PWI Rookie of the Year" t-shirt, blue wrestling trunks and boots. He is also waving a Canadian flag.

Bingham] 'allo les peoples ov forks d'grande. J'mappelle Raymond Bingham. I used to hail from the United States of America but as of last week I have changed my citizenship to Montreal, Canada, where mon grandmere was born and raised. You see people Canadians are just much more smart than Americans. While the USA were fighting a civil war over slaves, Canada was welcoming them over the border. While America exiled the best ball players in the world to the negro leagues, Montreal welcomed Jackie Robinson to play for them. While the USA sent their soldiers over to Vietnam to die by the shitload, Canada welcomed the draft dodgers over the border. And now while America stirs up the hornets nest over in Iraq, the Canadians send more peacekeepers to Afghanistan. North Dakota here has the biggest concentration of nuclear warheads in the world, so it's a good thing you are located right next to Canada so we don't need to build our own. Instead we can spend that money on universal medicare!

The fans boo and start a chant of U-S-A, U-S-A...

Bingham] It's a good thing your founding fathers only made the acronym 3 letters or you bunch of rednecks wouldn't be able to get it right. Tonight, I take on a man who, while you cheer him, has no more love for America than I do. Vendetta has been a great interim champion, while the management of RCW has kept back the future, me, Raymond Bingham, long enough. Tonight I will wrestle the present out of the hands of Vendetta, and I will discard the future, take my place as the present, and kick Vendetta into the past. I know that is hard for you folks to understand so let me sum it up for you. I will win the RCW Heavyweight title from Vendetta tonight, and then he will have a long rest for his ailing back.

Bingham throws the mic to the ground and waves the Canadian flag as the fans boo and jeer him, again starting up the U-S-A chant.


Bout #2
Vincent Regliatti v Chris Jons
Chris Jons beat Vincent Regliatti by pinfall after a double underhook superplex at 5:40


In-ring interview;
Joe Aiello is in the ring with Sable.

Aiello] Sable everyone wants to know just what are you playing at?

Sable] What do you mean Joe?

Aiello] Oh come on. First Al Collins goes out of his way to help you, he lets you manage him...

Sable] Let's me??!!

Aiello] Yes, let's you, as I recall up to that point your bags were packed and you were headed east on the sleazeball express. Then you sweet talk poor Jamie Knoble into letting you manage him, after I might add, you pretty much abandoned Al Collins when you were out there with him. Anyway, because of your bragging and challenge, the monster Menele comes out and beats up on an ill-prepared Knoble, and then later attacks Collins and Knoble again. What did Collins call you last week? Oh yeah, a black widow!

Sable] Are you done Joe? If I could just speak for a second I'll clear all this up. With poor Al, well our agreement was just for me to come to rinside with him, I didn't say I would watch his back. As far as letting him manage me, and sweet talking Knoble, well Joe look at me! Any guy in the RCW, and probably most of the women too, would give anything to have me manage them! I'm a hottie damnit~

Joe] Even I can't deny that Sable, you are hot. But it seems that heat is starting to get a lot of wrestlers burned around here.

Sable] The pain is worth the ecstasy Joe...

Sable begins to run her fingertips up and down Joe's chest, then brushing his hair back.

Sable] Jamie should be out of the hospital next week Joe, and then I will be at his side once again. As for Al, well he's a sweet man, kind of an Uncle figure. You know the kind of Uncle I mean Joe. The one with the beer belly, the comb-over, makes rude body movement noises at the dinner table and then laughs. The kind with the wandering hands and the leachers smile. I'm done with Al Collins, good luck to him.

Joe] Well maybe you are done with him, but he is still feeling the effects of the fallout with you. Next, right here, he has a match against Menele who has been on a rampage as of late.

Sable] Well, that does sound exciting doesn't it...are you as excited as I am Joe? humm....looks like it. I might just have to stay for that match, perhaps I can join you in the booth?

Joe] You mean at the broadcast table?

Sable] Oh, that's what I meant, not sure why I was thinking of booths.

Sable's theme plays and she walks her latex covered ass over to the announce table, as the fans give her a mix of cheers and boos.


Bout #3
Al Collins v Menele
Menele starts strong with a series of punches and kicks and a chop to the throat. He nails Collins with a release overhead suplex, but then pauses to stare at Sable who is sitting at the announce table.
Collins strikes with a kick to the gut, an uppercut forearm smash, and a backdrop. Collins then too makes the mistake of getting distracted, standing at the ringropes staring her down.
Menele strikes from behind with a knee to the back that drives Collins out of the ring. Menele nails another release overhead suplex onto the floor. He then puts Collins on the announce table and stares into the eyes of Sable as he applies a chokehold to Collins. At first Sable finds it kind of amusing but soon it becomes apparent that Menele will not break the hold, despite the counts of referee Melissa Coates. Sable begins to get worried as Collins is turning colour. Coates calls for the bell as she and Sable are both yelling at Menele to release the choke. Finally the monster releases the hold, and begins to walk over to Sable who quickly scampers over the table and flees to the back.
Al Collins defeated Menele by disqualification when Menele wouldn't release a chokehold at 3:24


Bout #4
Robert "Blaze" Bayley v Lord Valmont (/w Sherry Valmont)
The premiere match for Bayley, is also the first we have seen Valmont since RCW Rage came back on the air. Valmont is just no match for the international superstar Bayley who wins the match with little trouble.
Robert Bayley beat Lord Valmont by pinfall after a Blaze Bomb at 4:49

Post-Match
Bayley] Riggs, you son of a bitch! Last week you sent both me and Kimberly to the hospital with one of your sneak attacks. The shot with the wrench left me with a concussion, but don't worry my memory is still intact, and I will get my payback. You beat Manny Silva last week in the main event cage match, so that pretty much makes you the number one contender for whoever emerges tonight as the RCW champion. Well Riggs, you might never get the chance to exercise that #1 contenders right, because I'm going to take you out before you get the chance.


Bout #5
RCW Tag Team Title Match - Rematch
The Spinebusters: Bryan Caruthers & Jerry Orth (Champions) v The Sheepherders: Jim Nancy & Sexton Cage
These two teams met last week and getting a taste of their own medicine, Jerry Orth grew so frustrated by the tactics and cheating of the Sheepherders that he finally snapped and nailed them with a steel chair, causing the 'busters to lose the match by DQ, but not the titles.
Prior to this match the 'herders tried to goad the Spinebusters into putting up the NWA World titles, but the Spinebusters just gave them a look of contempt.
The match started with a test of strength between Nancy and Caruthers with Nancy getting the better of it, and control into a hammerlock. It only took seconds though before this match turned downright nasty.
There wasn't much flow to the match as it was constant interference and double-teams. Finally the Spinebusters gained control and cut the ring in half, isolating the bigger but inexperienced Sexton Cage. They worked over his right arm and shoulder to the point where he couldn't even swing a punch. Caruthers then surprised him with a sudden spinebuster slam, and would have got the 3 count except for Nancy entering the ring to break it up. This brought in Orth, and the Spinebusters double-teamed Nancy, taking him out with a stuffed piledriver.
However, Cage recovered and nailed Caruthers with a big boot to the face. Referee Buddy Lane escorted Orth out of the ring, and then counted, the 1, 2, kickout by Caruthers!
Cage whipped Caruthers into the ropes and caught him with a powerbomb which instead of releasing, he pulled the champ back up and pounded him back to the ground a second time. The attempted pin was broken up by Jerry Orth. Cage and Orth now went at it tooth and nail and they spilled out of the ring. Jim Nancy was still feeling the ill effects of the previous few minutes. Referee Buddy Lane applied the count, and the stubborn youth in Sexton Cage was either tuned out or just ignored the count, instead continuing his winning battle against Orth. Cage slammed Orth into the guardrail. He then threw him into the crowd. Standing on a chair he reigned down punches on the busted open forehead of Jerry Orth.
Inside the ring Bryan Caruthers stood in the middle, allowing the beating of his partner to continue, not wanting to break up the count. Nancy finally managed to revive long enough to break Cage from the distraction. However, it was too late as by the time Cage made a break for the ring Buddy Lane was already calling for the bell.
The Spinebusters defeated The Sheepherders by countout when Sexton Cage was counted out of the ring at 12:38


Backstage;
Lord Valmont and his wife and valet Sherry Valmont are standing in the dressing room corridor with Linley Tolbert.

Tolbert] Okay Mr.Valmont, you don't mind me calling you Mister do you? It seems a bit pretentious for someone who just got the crap beat out of them by a heavy metal wannabe to refer to himself as Lord. Anyway, you called me out here, so what do you have to say?

Valmont] I have a challenge for Robert Bayley. You caught me off guard, but that won't happen again. Let's do this, right here, right now. Me and you in a streetfight.

Tolbert] Well you have a lot of nerve, if not brains, but this is no street, it's an arena corridor, and I don't think that Bayley is going to answer the call because frankly it's not very glamorous...well look who's here...

The fans cheer as Robert Bayley comes into the picture. He's about to say something to Valmont when his valet Sherry hauls off and slaps him in the face. Then her husband blindsides the distracted Bayley with a shot into the wall. He begins to pepper in a few shots but already Bayley is making a comeback. Then it becomes apparent it's a rouse as Adam Riggs appears behind Bayley and lays him out with a kick to the back. Riggs tells the Valmonts to scram as he starts to lay the boots into Bayley. He then slams Bayley's face into the concrete floor, and it comes up bloody. RCW security arrives on the scene but Riggs slams the first two into the wall, and the other 2 back off trying to talk Riggs down. But the crazy Irishman isn't about to stop and he starts to stomp away again at Bayley. The other 2 security guards jump in trying to grab the arms of Riggs, but he tosses them away and then slams them into the wall also.

Finally Bob Backlund arrives with Debra McMichael tailing behind. Backlund though doesn't even get a word out of his mouth before Riggs boots him in the chest and then rams him head first into the concrete wall. Riggs then surprises Debra with a shove into the wall and she goes down as well.

Finally help arrives big time in the frame of Ron Waterman who tackles Riggs from behind and holds him down while officials try and help Bayley to his feet. Riggs and Waterman are wrestling around the ground until officials can finally get in and break them up.


Not Really a Bout?
World Cup Warm-Up
Open Invitation 6-Man Street Fight

<<<cue "Ride of the Valkryies" by Wagner>>>
Team Germany RCW; represented by Dan Severn, Jack Voight, and Alex Wright come to the ring first. Severn gets on the mic.

Severn] Shut the hell up you bunch of farm *******, there's no pigs here to **** for you mid-western hicks. As predicted TEAM USA was too chicken shit to show up tonight. SHUT THE HELL UP. Bow down to Team Germany, the Gods of wrestling. But at least Team Mexico was not too afraid to send a team.

<<< cue "La Bamba" by Richie Valens >>>

Joe Aiello] What the hell is this? Some sort of joke? Who are these guys, and what's up with "La Bamba" is that supposed to be the Mexican National Anthem now?

Three men make their way to the ring cautiously. The first one is dressed entirely in red, including a red mask, he is announced as being the 428 lb. "El Spinkter Bungholio" and his gut hangs out below his red t-shirt. A gut, which like his arms looks suspiciously white and pasty. The second member of the contingent is announced as being 155 lbs. "Sin Nombre", and he is wearing all yellow, including his mask, and his name spelled in red across his t-shirt. Aiello informs us that "Sin Nombre" apparently is Spanish for "no-name". Finally, dressed in mocking fashion of Jody Christmas's image is 188 lb., "Puta Masculina" which is in fact Spanish for Boy Toy.

The bell rings and this isn't really a match, as all 6 men go at it in the ring and all around it. Team Mexico doesn't stand a chance obviously and are getting the hell beaten out of them.

<<< cue "Star Spangled Banner" by Jimi Hendrix >>>

Dressed in street clothes Jody Christmas, Sam Holiday, and Al Hardamann, come racing from the back and jump into the action. The three "Mexicans" bail out and head for the back as the Americans go toe to toe with the Germans. Severn and Christmas go at in the middle of the ring while Holiday and Hardamann go at with Voight and Wright outside the ring. Severn tries to lock on an armbar submission on Christmas but he counters it and within a minute has Severn locked in a sharpshooter.

<<< cue "South African National Anthem" >>>
Three men come running down the aisle.

Aiello] Who the hell are these guys? Where did they come from?

Tolbert] Joe, that is Frans van der Heever, 7 time and current South African Wrestling champion, the big man is Wyld Boer, and lastly Duane van Staden. To answer your question Joe, they came from South Africa, and were invited by me! This should be fun to watch.

The newcomers are no push overs and they go right after both of the other teams, so now we have a 9 man brawl which brings the fans to their feet. Boer gores Hardamann into the guardrail knocking him completely out. Van Staden however falls victim to a Jack Voight powerbomb on the announce table.

Tolbert] I would say these guys are a bit pissed at not being invited to the World Cup!!


<<< cue "Ride of the Valkryies" by Wagner >>>

Aiello] Why is the German music playing now? Is this match over?

The fans get to their feet as they stare at the entrance ramp.

Tolbert] Far from over Joe, this looks like it is about to hit overdrive!! That's KAI HANSON !! What the hell is that animal doing here??

Former Axis Power PWA and IPW star Hanson joins the fray, grabbing a steel chair on his way which he uses to ~waffle~ Sam Holiday over the head, busting him wide open. Back inside the ring Jody Christmas is in trouble as he is being double teamed now by Dan Severn and Alex Wright. Hanson goes right after Van Der Heever on the outside.

The crowd is on their feet once more as someone jumps over the guardrail.

Aiello] What the hell is going on here..that's MOSES LUKE..the German captain is here tonight!!

Luke goes to work on the Wyld Boer from behind smashing him into the ringsteps. He then picks up those steps and uses them to bust the Boer's head wide open. Luke then goes over and gives Voight a hand with Van Der Heever. The Germans control the day, with Wright and Severn busting Christmas open inside the ring, and Hanson, Voight, and Luke standing amidst a scattering of downed bodies outside the ring.

RCW security comes out and floods the scene, with the Germans declaring their own victory as we cut to a commercial break.



Main Event
RCW Heavyweight Title Match
Vendetta (champion) v Raymond Bingham
Bingham won the right to this title shot, his first big title opportunity, by beating Ken Shamrock, a very impressive feat.

They lock up.
Raymond Bingham nails Vendetta with a punch.

Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with a savate kick.
Raymond Bingham hits a flying cross body press on Vendetta.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, kickout.

What is long time inept official Jurgen Hermann doing officiating this match???

Raymond Bingham uses a low blow on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham nails Vendetta with a jawbreaker.
Raymond Bingham executes a low blow on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham uses a reverse neckbreaker on Vendetta.
A wave of boos is going through the crowd.
Raymond Bingham whips Vendetta into the ropes, but Vendetta reverses it.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with an elbow.
Raymond Bingham runs into the ropes.
Vendetta hits Raymond Bingham with a clothesline.
Vendetta goes for a Gory Special, but Raymond Bingham blocks it.
Raymond Bingham uses a dragon screw leg whip on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham nails Vendetta with a thumb to the eye.
Raymond Bingham takes Vendetta down with an atomic drop.
Vendetta goes for a jumping side kick, but Raymond Bingham ducks out of the way.
Raymond Bingham hits a hammerlock on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham takes Vendetta down with an armdrag takedown.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta.

Impressive showing so far for Bingham.

Vendetta kicks Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta kicks Raymond Bingham.
A small "Vendetta" chant is being started.
Vendetta whips Raymond Bingham into the ropes.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with a clothesline.
Vendetta falls out of the ring.
Raymond Bingham goes through the ropes.
They're brawling inside the ring area.
Jurgen Hermann counts: 1.
Raymond Bingham uses a standing moonsault on Vendetta.
Jurgen Hermann counts: 2.
Raymond Bingham reenters the ring.
Vendetta follows him back in.
Raymond Bingham goes for a punch, but Vendetta counters it with
an armbar submission.
Raymond Bingham reaches the ropes after being trapped for 5 seconds.
Vendetta hits a roundhouse kick on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta locks Raymond Bingham in a Gory Special.
Raymond Bingham reaches the ropes after being trapped for 7 seconds.
Vendetta whips Raymond Bingham into the ropes.
Vendetta uses a chop on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta goes for a Gory Special, but Raymond Bingham blocks it.
Raymond Bingham takes Vendetta down with a reverse neckbreaker.
The crowd is booing Raymond Bingham.
Raymond Bingham hits a vertical suplex on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham places Vendetta on the turnbuckle.
Raymond Bingham hits a belly-to-back superplex on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham throws Vendetta out of the ring.
Raymond Bingham goes for a Pescado, but Vendetta moves out of the way.
Vendetta catches Raymond Bingham totally by surprise.
Vendetta nails Raymond Bingham with a DDT.
Vendetta throws Raymond Bingham back into the ring.
Vendetta takes Raymond Bingham down with a bodyslam.
Vendetta takes Raymond Bingham down with a clothesline.
Vendetta raises his arms to the crowd.

The champion is coming back strong now!

Vendetta uses a snap suplex on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta uses a waistlock takedown on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta gets a Gory Special on Raymond Bingham.
Raymond Bingham breaks the hold after 5 seconds.
Vendetta locks Raymond Bingham in a Gory Special.
Raymond Bingham reaches the ropes after being trapped for 5 seconds.
Vendetta throws Raymond Bingham out of the ring.
Vendetta goes through the ropes.
Vendetta knocks Raymond Bingham into the ringsteps.
Vendetta goes for the Haitian Deathlock, but Raymond Bingham counters it with
a kick to the groin.
Jurgen Hermann counts: 1.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with a reverse neckbreaker.
Raymond Bingham reenters the ring.
Vendetta follows him back in.
Raymond Bingham uses a savate kick on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham takes Vendetta down with a jumping neck snap.
The crowd is booing Raymond Bingham.
Raymond Bingham whips Vendetta into the ropes.
Vendetta misses with a kick.
Raymond Bingham hits flying headscissors on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham puts Vendetta in a full nelson.
Vendetta is struggling to reach the ropes.
Vendetta reaches the ropes after being trapped for 10 seconds.
Raymond Bingham whips Vendetta into the ropes.
Vendetta nails Raymond Bingham with a clothesline.
Vendetta whips Raymond Bingham into the ropes, but Raymond Bingham reverses it.
Raymond Bingham takes Vendetta down with flying headscissors.
Raymond Bingham gets a drop-toe hold into a leglock on Vendetta.
Vendetta is struggling to reach the ropes.
Vendetta is valiantly trying to break the hold.
Raymond Bingham lets go after 20 seconds.
Raymond Bingham goes for a thumb to the eye, but Vendetta blocks it.
Raymond Bingham begs off.
Vendetta goes for a Gory Special, but Raymond Bingham blocks it.
Raymond Bingham places Vendetta on the turnbuckle.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with a belly-to-back superplex.
Raymond Bingham whips Vendetta into the turnbuckle.
Raymond Bingham runs shoulder-first into the corner, but Vendetta
moves out of the way.
Vendetta hits Raymond Bingham with a springboard back elbow.
Vendetta is going for the pin.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, kickout.
Vendetta uses a series of slaps on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta locks Raymond Bingham in a surfboard.
Raymond Bingham tries to escape the hold.
Raymond Bingham is struggling to reach the ropes.
Raymond Bingham reaches the ropes after being trapped for 24 seconds.
Raymond Bingham begs off.
Vendetta hits Raymond Bingham with a punch.
Vendetta goes for a left hook, but Raymond Bingham counters it with
an armbar submission.
Vendetta breaks the hold after 5 seconds.
Vendetta nails Raymond Bingham with a headbutt.
Vendetta throws Raymond Bingham out of the ring.
Vendetta goes through the ropes.
Vendetta whips Raymond Bingham into the guardrail.
Vendetta nails Raymond Bingham with a DDT.
Jurgen Hermann counts: 1.
Vendetta knocks Raymond Bingham into the ringpost.
Vendetta goes for a clothesline, but Raymond Bingham counters it with a crucifix.
Jurgen Hermann counts: 2.
Raymond Bingham reenters the ring.
Vendetta follows him back in.
Vendetta brings the table into the ring.
Vendetta throws Raymond Bingham out of the ring.
Jurgen Hermann counts: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine,
Raymond Bingham reenters the ring.
Vendetta locks Raymond Bingham in a bearhug.
Raymond Bingham breaks the hold after 10 seconds.
Raymond Bingham goes for a ropeflip clothesline, but Vendetta blocks it.
Raymond Bingham begs off.
Vendetta runs into the ropes.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with a thumb to the eye.
Raymond Bingham punches Vendetta.
The arena is exploding in a chorus of boos.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham further incites the crowd.
Raymond Bingham chops Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham is being booed like there is no tomorrow.
Vendetta punches Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta has the crowd going wild.
Vendetta gets a bearhug on Raymond Bingham.
Raymond Bingham is struggling to reach the ropes.
Raymond Bingham tries to escape the hold.
Raymond Bingham reaches the ropes after being trapped for 15 seconds.
Raymond Bingham begs off.
Vendetta takes Raymond Bingham down with a clothesline.
Vendetta executes the Haitian Deathlock on Raymond Bingham.
Raymond Bingham summons one last burst of energy.
Jurgen Hermann asks Raymond Bingham if he's had enough.
Raymond Bingham shakes his head.
Jurgen Hermann asks Raymond Bingham if he's had enough.
Raymond Bingham shakes his head.
Jurgen Hermann tells Raymond Bingham to respond or he'll stop the fight.
Raymond Bingham nods.
Raymond Bingham is writhing in pain.

The fans are on their feet, this looks like it is over. Finally we will see the ego of Raymond Bingham take a step backward!

Jurgen Hermann asks Raymond Bingham if he's had enough.
Raymond Bingham shakes his head.
Jurgen Hermann checks Raymond Bingham's arm.
He lifts it... it falls.
He lifts it... it stays up !
Raymond Bingham fights his way out of the hold after 43 seconds.
Raymond Bingham throws Vendetta out of the ring.
Raymond Bingham jumps onto him with a plancha.
Raymond Bingham goes for an armbreaker, but Vendetta counters it with
a sleeperhold.
Jurgen Hermann counts: 1.
Vendetta whips Raymond Bingham into the guardrail.
Vendetta knocks Raymond Bingham into the ringsteps.
Vendetta hits a piledriver on Raymond Bingham.
They're brawling inside the ring area.
Raymond Bingham takes Vendetta down with a spinning leg lariat.
Jurgen Hermann counts: 2.
They're brawling inside the ring area.
Jurgen Hermann counts: 3.
Raymond Bingham reenters the ring.
Vendetta follows him back in.
Raymond Bingham catches Vendetta in a short arm scissors.
Vendetta reaches the ropes after being trapped for 5 seconds.
Raymond Bingham goes for an armdrag takedown, but Vendetta counters it with
a backslide.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, two, in the ropes...
Vendetta nails Raymond Bingham with a series of slaps.
Vendetta uses an Asai leg lariat on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta hits a Russian legsweep on Raymond Bingham.

The crowd is going into a frenzy.

Vendetta uses a waistlock takedown on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta takes Raymond Bingham down with a kick to the midsection.
Vendetta goes for a hiptoss, but Raymond Bingham reverses it.
Raymond Bingham goes for a ropeflip clothesline, but Vendetta blocks it.
Vendetta hits Raymond Bingham with a chop.
Vendetta uses a series of slaps on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta goes for a headbutt, but Raymond Bingham blocks it.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with a low blow.
Raymond Bingham chops Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham kicks Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham hits a punch on Vendetta.
Vendetta goes for a German suplex, but Raymond Bingham counters it with
a backward kick.
Raymond Bingham nails Vendetta with a dropkick to the knee.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with a legsweep faceslam.
Raymond Bingham hits a bodyslam on Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham is going for the pin.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, two, kickout.
Raymond Bingham gets a full nelson on Vendetta.
Vendetta is struggling to reach the ropes.
Vendetta reaches the ropes after being trapped for 5 seconds.
Raymond Bingham goes for a punch, but Vendetta counters it with
a roundhouse right.
Vendetta executes a chop on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta nails Raymond Bingham with a snap suplex.
Vendetta is going for the pin.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, two, in the ropes...

Vendetta raises his arms to the crowd.

The crowd is going into a frenzy.

Vendetta executes the Haitian Deathlock on Raymond Bingham.
Raymond Bingham is struggling to reach the ropes.
Raymond Bingham is valiantly trying to break the hold.
Raymond Bingham tries to fight the pain.
Raymond Bingham summons one last burst of energy.
Jurgen Hermann checks Raymond Bingham's arm.
He lifts it... it falls.
He lifts it... it stays up !
Raymond Bingham fights his way out of the hold after 30 seconds.

Raymond Bingham chops Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham takes Vendetta down with a jawbreaker.
The arena is exploding in a chorus of boos.
Raymond Bingham goes for a flying cross body press, but Vendetta
rolls through with the move.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, two, thr... kickout.
Vendetta goes for a backdrop, but Raymond Bingham blocks it.
Raymond Bingham goes for a bodyslam, but Vendetta counters it with an elbowsmash.
Vendetta whips Raymond Bingham into the ropes.
Raymond Bingham hits Vendetta with an elbow.
Raymond Bingham nails Vendetta with an atomic drop.
Raymond Bingham goes for a bodyslam, but Vendetta counters it with
a small package.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, two, thr... kickout.
Vendetta hits Raymond Bingham with a waistlock takedown.
Vendetta uses a jumping side kick on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta takes Raymond Bingham down with a punch.
Raymond Bingham begs off.
Vendetta whips Raymond Bingham into the ropes, but Raymond Bingham reverses it.
Vendetta misses with a clothesline.
Vendetta takes Raymond Bingham down with an Asai leg lariat.
Vendetta runs into the ropes.
Vendetta goes for a clothesline, but Raymond Bingham counters it with a crucifix.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, kickout.
Raymond Bingham goes for a flying cross body press, but Vendetta
counters it with a running powerslam.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, two, thr... kickout.

That was damn close!!

The crowd is on its feet cheering for Vendetta.
Vendetta whips Raymond Bingham into the turnbuckle, but Raymond Bingham
reverses it.
Vendetta comes back and rocks Raymond Bingham with a springboard back elbow.
Raymond Bingham begs off.
Vendetta uses a savate kick on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta goes for a Gory Special, but Raymond Bingham counters it with
an armdrag takedown.
In turn, Vendetta counters it with a lariat.
Vendetta hits a kick to the midsection on Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta kicks Raymond Bingham.
Vendetta hits Raymond Bingham.
The crowd is on its feet cheering for Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham punches Vendetta.
Raymond Bingham kicks Vendetta.
The arena is exploding in a chorus of boos.
Raymond Bingham places Vendetta on the turnbuckle.
Raymond Bingham takes Vendetta down with a superplex.
Raymond Bingham executes the No Way Out on Vendetta.

That's his finisher, a Northern Lights Suplex into a pin.

Jurgen Hermann counts: One, two, thr...

Raymond Bingham pulls Vendetta up.

What the hell is he doing? He had the match won! He isn't happy with just winning though, he seems to want to embarrass the champ.

Raymond Bingham nails Vendetta with a reverse neckbreaker.
Raymond Bingham executes a top-rope legdrop on Vendetta.

Vendetta rolls out of the way.

Vendetta nails Raymond Bingham with an inside cradle.
Jurgen Hermann counts: One, two, three.
The crowd is giving Vendetta a standing ovation.

The winner is Vendetta. Time of match: 0:19:58

Vendetta pinned Raymond Bingham after an inside cradle in 0:19:58
Rating: ***
[Vendetta retained the River City Wrestling Heavyweight Title]

The fans cheer Vendetta, and Raymond Bingham is visibly upset at himself. He had this match won, the title was his, but he let his ego get in the way. The fans are soaking it up, as we


FADE TO BLACK