July 2004

[managermike99]

River City Wrestling #990
2 Hour Edition of RAGE in Syndication
Taped Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Air Date, Saturday July 10, 2004


Bronco Gym
Boise, Idaho

Attendance: 1,235 (sold out)


<<< cue "One Big Rush" by Joe Satriani >>>

Joe Aiello] Welcome fans to another edition of Saturday Rage. This one was taped a week and a half ago and was originally supposed to air last Saturday. However, due to some scheduling conflicts that arose due to some of our syndication partners' special Independence Day programming we had to delay this broadcast one full week. In just a second we will take you to the event, which was a 16-man tournament to crown a new RCW Heritage Champion. Traditionally this belt is held by someone who knows his way around the mat, as often it is defended in multiple falls situations and other ways of a by-gone era. The brackets were drawn up by RCW officials and the wrestlers were ranked from 1-16, and no re-seeding would be done between rounds. As you will see there were some tremendous upsets in the tournament. Due to the length of the event, 14 matches were held, we will only be able to show you the highlights of most of the matches. So kick back and enjoy the crowning of your new RCW Heritage champion.

Tournament Seedings
1) Sam Holiday v 16) Lord Valmont
8) Menele v 9) Al Hardamann

4) Diamond Rhodes v 13) Eddie Chavez
5) Bam Bam Bigelow v 12) Chris Jons

2) Raymond Bingham v 15) Ryland Roxbury
7) Jamie Knoble v 10) Alex Wright

3) Jack Voight v 14) Asp Evergreen
6) Ron Waterman v 11) Vincent Regliatti


Round Of 16

Sam Holiday v Lord Valmont (/w Sherry Valmont)
(joined in progress)
...Holiday has Valmont against the ropes, he nails a couple of kicks and a chop. Holiday tries to send Valmont across the ring to the ropes, but its reversed. Holiday though is in control and rocks Valmont with a lariat. A hammerlock takedown results in a one count for Holiday. Spinning toe hold and Valmont has to get to the ropes for a break to keep this match alive. It's all Holiday though as he nails a spinning mule kick and follows up with a double arm DDT and picks up the win.
Sam Holiday pinned Lord Valmont after a double arm DDT in 0:03:13
Rating: 3/4*


Menele v Al Hardamann
(joined in progress)
...Menele has Hardamann down on the mat and goes for a stomp but Hardamann rolls out of the way, and kips up to his feet. Hardamann rallies with a kick to the gut and a dropkick, Menele's momentum takes him backward where he collides with long time inept official Jurgen Hermann who falls to the mat. Hardamann picks Menele to his feet but is surprised with a knee to the groin. The beast attacks Hardamann with an armbreaker followed with an overhead head and arm suplex that awes the crowd. Menele goes for the pin but there is no referee to count.
Menele hits a chop to the throat, and Hermann is back on the job but Menele gets only a 2 count. He then asserts his superiority in the match over one of RCWs biggest stars Hardamann, by taking him to the middle of the ring and nailing his wheelbarrow suplex finisher to end a long match.
Menele pinned Al Hardamann with the Wheelbarrow Suplex in 0:15:31
Rating: * 3/4


Diamond Rhodes (/w Paisley) v Eddie Chavez
(joined in progress)
...Chavez takes Rhodes down with a chop and then picks him up and sends him to the buckle. Rhodes bounces out of the corner and both men nail each other with a clothesline and they both go down. Both men get to their feet and again both go for the clothesline and nail each other to the mat. This time Rhodes exerts his size and power advantage by recovering first, and whips Chavez face first into the buckle. He then drags Chavez into the middle of the ring and nails a piledriver. He gets the 1, 2, and Chavez kicks out. Rhodes sends Chavez into the buckle again, ducks a clothesline attempt by Chavez coming out of the corner, and then nails him with a flying bulldog for the win.
Diamond Rhodes pinned Eddie Chavez with the flying bulldog in 0:13:36
Rating: * 1/4


Bam Bam Bigelow v Chris Jons
(joined in progress)
...Bigelow is in control and nails Jons with a forearm smash. But when he goes for a second forearm it's blocked by Jons who then nails the Beast from the East with a kick to the gut. Jons then backs Bigelow across the ring with a series of chops. The fans are solidly behind Jons. Bigelow and Jons then get into an exchange of punches and chops, an exchange which the much smaller Jons realizes he can't win. So the cruiserweight goes for a spin kick but Bigelow moves out of the way and then nails Jons with a quick scoop into a powerslam. Jons manages to just avoid the 3 count, but then falls prey to the Greetings from Asbury Park and it's all over.
Bam Bam Bigelow pinned Chris Jons with the Greetings from Asbury Park in 0:18:56
Rating: ** 1/2


Raymond Bingham v Ryland Roxbury
(joined in progress)
...the second seeded Bingham nails young Roxbury with a dropkick outside the ring, followed by an armdrag takedown before throwing Roxbury into the guardrail. Back inside the ring Bingham goes for a legsweep faceslam but it's blocked by Roxbury who then scoops Bingham up into a backbreaker. He then rakes Bingham's head across the the top rope drawing a cheer from the crowd. Bingham though blocks an attempt by Roxbury to put him onto the top turnbuckle. Roxbury re-establishes control in the corner with a pair of kicks to the midsection, but when he tries to whip Bingham out of the corner, the former PWI rookie of the year reverses it and sends Roxbury hard into the corner. Bingham though misses with an elbow and is caught off guard by Roxbury who nails a rana and picks up a shocking victory.
Ryland Roxbury pinned Raymond Bingham after a rana in 0:07:28
Rating: *


Jaimie Knoble (/w Sable) v Alex Wright
(joined in progress)
..Knoble stomps away at Wright, and then nails a powerslam. He continues to punish the German with a Russian legsweep and a flying senton but only gets a one count. Knoble then pushes his luck too far and Wright moves out of the way of a springboard moonsault attempt. It's all Wright now with an inverted power bomb, jumping elbow thrust and a reverse neckbreaker fiisher.
Alex Wright pinned Jaime Knoble with the Reverse Neckbreaker in 0:09:39
Rating: *** 1/4


Jack Voight v Asp Evergreen
(joined in progress)
...Evergreen attempts to kick Voight in the gut but the German catches his foot and rocks him with a clothesline. The fans are actually cheering the hated German over the foolhardy Evergreen. Voight tosses Evergreen out of the ring and follows him to the floor. He tosses Evergreen into the guardrail and then rams him back first into the ring apron. Back inside it's time for the Tombstone piledriver.
Jack Voight pinned Asp Evergreen with the Tombstone piledriver in 0:13:29
Rating: * 3/4


Ron Waterman v Vincent Regliatti
(joined in progress)
...Waterman nails Regliatti with a scoop slam, and then repeats with another scoop slam on the Playboy. Regliatti though fights back with a well timed thumb to the eye and then wows the crowd with a Soviet suplex on H2O. He follows up with a back suplex and a flying cross body press, and gets a count of 2. Regs continues the punishment with a legsweep faceslam, but then makes the mistake of putting Waterman in a standing chokehold. The fans cheer as H2O blasts his way out of the choke with an elbowsmash to the head of the Canadian wrestler. The fans cheer as Waterman surprises them with a dropkick and then covers Regliatti for a count of 2. Regliatti tries to beg off but Waterman picks him up and delivers an elbowsmash. But when he tries to follow up with an armbar Regs blocks it only to fall victim to an enzuilirato. Again Regs backs into a corner and begs for time. Waterman responds with another elbowsmash and then tries to finish him off with a Gorilla Press slam. But he takes too long showing off his strength which allows Regliatti to slide down his back into a victory roll. The ref counts 1, 2, Regs grabs a handful of tights, 3. 
Vincent Regliatti pinned Ron Waterman after a Victory Roll in 0:09:21
Rating: * 3/4



Quarter-Finals

Sam Holiday v Menele
(joined in progress)
...this is a huge match for Menele, a real chance to establish himself in the upper tier of RCW. Holiday goes for a double arm DDT but Menele blocks it, and tries for a knee to the face but Holiday gets his hands in the way at the last second deflecting most of the punishment. Holiday fights back with some punches and then a side suplex. A series of chops and punches have the fans to their feet and Menele reeling. Holiday nails a powerslam, but gets only a 2 count. Holiday signals for the Holiday legdrop and climbs to the top rope. He nails his finisher and finally someone has beaten Menele clean one on one.
Sam Holiday pinned Menele with the Holiday Leg Drop in 0:09:38
Rating: ** 1/2


Diamond Rhodes (/w Paisley) v Bam Bam Bigelow
(matched shown in its entirety)
Oh what a cruel web fate spins for Rhodes. He finally had Bigelow commit to joining him in an allegiance if he could beat him, and he did so with the help of his valet Paisley. But now old wounds are being opened again as the two must once more face off.
Rhodes begins the match by offering a handshake to Bigelow but the Beast from the East shakes him off. Rhodes with a kick to Bigelow's leg, and then scoops him with a partial bodyslam. He goes for an early pin but only gets a 1 count. Rhodes attacks with an elbowsmash, bodyslam, inverted atomic drop, and Bigelow leaves the ring for a breather. He takes a few seconds out to warn Paisley not to interfere this time.
Rhodes catches Bigelow returning to the ring with a kick to the ribs and then nails a swinging neckbreaker. Rhodes wastes time posing for the crowd. Rhodes hits a dropkick but when he goes for a punch its blocked by Bigelow who responds with a kick and then a DDT. Both men are down. Bigelow is up first and goes for a moonsault but Rhodes is playing possum and moves out of the way.
Rhodes sends Bigelow to the ropes and nails him with a shoulderblock. He then repeats but this time uses a clothesline. Bigelow though is back on his feet and fights back with kicks and punches but when he goes for a dropkick Rhodes moves out of the way.
Rhodes waits for Bigelow to get up and then nails him with a DDT for the win.
Diamond Rhodes pinned Bam Bam Bigelow after a DDT in 0:02:27
Rating: * 3/4


Alex Wright v Ryland Roxbury
(match shown in its entirety)
Wright attacks Roxbury from behind before the opening bell sounds. After an initial flurry he tries for a Frankensteiner but Roxbury counters with a powerbomb. He gets a two count as Wright just manages to lift a shoulder.
Roxbury is all over Wright with a legdrop, followed by a boot twist. He picks him up, nails a headbutt and then puts him down with an enzuigiri. Again he goes for the pin, possibly smelling an upset, but gets only a 2 count.
Roxbury tries to send Wright to the ropes but the German reverses and then nails Roxbury with a shoulderblock. He follows up with a short clothesline. Wright then tries to nail a bulldog but Roxbury counters by throwing Wright off and into the buckle. Roxbury throws Wright into the buckle again and nails him with a boot to the gut. He then shocks the crowd with a Northern Lights Suplex and the upset win.
Ryland Roxbury pinned Alex Wright after a Northern Lights suplex in 0:01:27
[Ryland Roxbury suffered a dislocated left knee. He will be out for approximately 3 weeks.]
Rating: 1/2*

Post-Match: The trainers have to come out and see to Roxbury who comes up limping. The fans give him a huge ovation as the youngster is aided to the back.
A real tough break for the youngster.


Jack Voight v Vincent Regliatti
(joined in progress)
...Voight goes for a clawhold but Regliatti counters with a lowblow. The ref admonishes Regs but allows the match to continue. Regs goes for a dropkick but Voight just swats him away. Again Voight goes for the clawhold but Regs counters with a fist to the midsection and follows up with a kick. Voight fires right back and the two exchange punches which favours the big German. Regs backs into the ropes and comes off with a kick to the gut of Voight. He continues to go to the midsection with kicks and punches, making the announcers wonder if he knows of an abdominal weakness. It seems to work as Voight is out of breath, and Regs climbs to the second rope and comes off with a dropkick, right to the groin! The Playboy then nails the Centerfold staple (brainbuster) and picks up another upset victory.
Vincent Regliatti pinned Jack Voight with the centrefold staple in 0:17:59
Rating: * 3/4



Semi-Finals

Sam Holiday v Diamond Rhodes (/wPaisley)
(joined in progress)
...Rhodes is in charge with a bodyslam and a swinging neckbreaker. Rhodes gets a two count and complains to the ref about a slow count. Rhodes continues to punish with a kick and a gutwrench suplex which yields another 2 count. Rhodes nails an elbowsmash and then goes for a DDT but Holiday blocks. Several punches by Holiday are followed by a hammerlock take down before Rhodes makes it to the ropes for the break. Holiday locks on a standing short arm scissors and once again forces Rhodes to fight for a break. Holiday nails a double underhook suplex and then covers, but only gets a two count. Rhodes lashes out with a kick to the gut on Holiday. He nails Holiday with an elbow right between the eyes. Rhodes tries to send Holiday to the ropes but the Texan reverses it and sends Rhodes to the ropes. As they meet in the middle of the ring Rhodes tries for a flying clothesline but Holiday ducks out of the way. Rhodes hits the ground hard, but is near the ring apron, close enough to get consolation from Paisely, in addition to being handed a set of knuckle dusters (or Diamond dusters in this case). Holiday goes to pick up Rhodes while Paisley jumps on the apron to attract the attention from referee Melissa Coates, and Rhodes surprises Holiday and ~waffles~ him with the knux.
Diamond Rhodes pinned Sam Holiday after hitting him with a foreign object in 0:12:25
Rating: * 1/2


Vincent Regliatti v Ryland Roxbury
Roxbury is injured and has to default the match.



Tournament Final
RCW Heritage Title Match
Diamond Rhodes (/w Paisley) v Vincent Regliatti
(match shown in its entirety)
Rhodes obviously has an advantage in experience over Regliatti as well as size and power, not to mention the rather industrious Paisley at ringside. On the other hand, although both men have spent roughly the same amount of time in the ring tonight, around 26-28 minutes, Regliatti is coming off of a bye while Rhodes just finished a hard match with Sam Holiday five minutes before this match began.
The Cinderella story finally has the fans cheering for Regliatti against the perverse Rhodes, and he strikes fast with some kicks and then a reverse neckbreaker. Regs nails a belly-to-belly suplex and gets a 2 count. He then goes to the well once more for a back suplex, but Rhodes counters with a go-behind, only to have Regs do the same. Regs tries for a sleeperhold but Rhodes blocks it and then turns it into a swinging neckbreaker to turn the tide in the match.
Rhodes throws Regs hard into the buckle, but makes the mistake of going in with abandon only to watch the former RCW champion move out of the way. The two trade punches and chops, and one big elbow from Rhodes. But it's Regs that hits hard first with a tilt-a-whirl suplex. A double underhook faceslam follows by Regs but only garners a 1 count.
Rhodes punches back and then throws Regliatti out of the ring. He follows and punishes the youngster by whipping him into the guardrail. Rhodes tries to hit an inverted atomic drop but Regs blocks it, rolling off to the side and then sends Rhodes crashing into the announce table. Regs throws Rhodes back into the ring and then nails a piledriver on the veteran.
The two men continue to fight back and forth, tooth and nail. Finally Regliatti really loses his temper and repeatedly puts Rhodes into a chokehold, breaking at the count of 4 only to reapply the hold. He then tosses Rhodes to the floor below and goes right after him. He introduces him shoulder and head first into two ringposts, but when he tries for a third Rhodes reverses it and sends Regs to the steel instead. Back inside the ring Rhodes punishes Regs with an inverted atomic drop, followed by a flying clothesline. Rhodes chops Regs into the corner. He then takes him down with a flying bulldog, and its over, 1, 2, FOOT ON THE BOTTOM ROPE. Regs is still alive in the match.
Paisly places the diamond dusters on the ring apron for Rhodes and then walks to the other side of the ring and jumps on the apron to distract head referee Buddy Lane. Rhodes retrieves the knux and punches Regs, but the punch is blocked, and Regs drops down with a low blow on Rhodes. He then pulls him up and nails the Centerfold staple. Tucking the hand of Rhodes that has the brass knux still on underneath him, he makes the cover.
Vincent Regliatti pinned Diamond Rhodes with the centrefold staple in 0:14:45
Rating: **
[Vincent Regliatti won the River City Wrestling Heritage Title]

Post-Match:
The fans give Regliatti, a long time heel,  a well deserved ovation as commissioner Bob Backlund along with his Executive Assistant Debra McMichael come down to the ring to present the Heritage title strap to Playboy Vincent Regliatti of Toronto, Canada.

As we...


Fade to Black


Ed. note] Pretty sure I ran this whole tournament unbooked which explains some of the upsets (Roxbury), as well as the injury.

[managermike99]

River City Wrestling #991
2 Hour Edition of RAGE in Syndication
Taped Wednesday, July 14, 2004
Air Date, Saturday July 17, 2004

Kohl Center,
on the campus of The University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI

Attendance: 5,809


<<< cue "Oh Canada" by Marc Labossiere >>>
Playboy Vincent Regliatti comes to the ring to a chorus of jeers. He is wearing the RCW Heritage Championship belt around his waist, and holds his head high. He is wearing his ring robe over-top of his red and white boots and trunks.

Regliatti] Thank-you Madison Wisconsin. Thank-you very much. I'm not sure why you are booing me, I'm the epitome of the American Cinderella story; defying all odds to win the Heritage title. Of course it should be no surprise, as I am also one-half of the rightful owners of the RCW Tag Team Titles, as me and Eric Scott never lost those titles...he simply got injured when RCW shut down. NOBODY beat us for the titles. But I guess that's the only way you Americans can beat us Canadians. 1812 was a long time ago, get over it, move on.

Tonight, I am going to prove that I am a fighting champion. You see the American whack-o commissioner Bobby Backlund came to see me before the show. It seems that Sam Holiday was knocked out in his semi-final match against Diamond Rhodes by brass knuckles, diamond dusters, or whatever you want to call those things. The same dusters that Rhodes tried to use on me, but I outwitted his American ass. Anyway, Backlund seems to think that Holiday deserves a fair shot at the title since he was cheated out of his by Rhodes. So bring it on Holiday, and let me beat your American punk ass.

<<< cue "Ain't Going Down 'till the Sun Comes Up" by Garth Brooks >>>
The fans cheer as Sam Holiday comes to the ring ready to wrestle.


Opening Bout
RCW Heritage Title Match
Playboy Vincent Regliatti (champion) v Sam Holiday
Despite going in as the champion, make no doubt about it, Regliatti was the underdog in this match, and the fans were hoping for a short reign as Heritage champion.
Holiday starts strong, nails a clothesline and locks on an abdominal stretch. The Texan then gets uncharacteristically aggressive by throwing Regs out of the ring and going after him on the floor.
However, outside and then back inside the Playboy gives as good as he gets. Holiday tries to slap on a figure-four leglock, a move often used by Regliatti, but the champion blocks.
Holiday exerts control now with a stump puller, bodyslam, lariat, only to have the champion come roaring back. Regs takes control of the match with a single-arm DDT, but only gets a one count. He then applies more pressure with a pair of double underhook faceslams, but still only gets a 2 count.
The match goes back and forth for a few minutes but the fans are surprised as Regliatti actually continues to hold the advantage more often then not. Holiday though will just not give up.
Finally Regs gets the break he needs as after reversing a whip to the buckle, Holiday collides with long time inept official Jurgen Hermann. The champ retrieves a chair and enters the ring, and ~waffles~ Holiday over the head. The Playboy discards the chair and then nails the fan favourite with his Centerfold Staple finisher (a brainbuster). Hermann of course wakes up in time to make the count.
Vincent Regliatti pinned Sam Holiday with the centrefold staple in 00:08:52
Rating: * 1/2
[Vincent Regliatti retained the River City Wrestling Heritage Title]


<<< cue "Won't Get Fooled Again" by the Who >>>
The Commissioner Bob Backlund comes to the ring, along with his Executive Assistant Debra McMichael.

Backlund] Hello fans of RCW, it's about time we arrived in Wisconsin, and judging by the sea of humanity here tonight you have been waiting too long for this night to happen! Well as you know on Rage's June 26th edition Adam Riggs went crazy trying to get his hands on Robert Bayley, or more precisely trying to ambush Bayley. In his efforts he assaulted both myself and Debra, which is just not an option. In RCW we have rules and regulations gosh darnit, and we expect them to be followed. So, Riggs, you want to fight so bad, tonight we have two matches for you! First, you can have your hands full with the man who was finally able to subdue you during that encounter, H2O Ron Waterman! Secondly, in the main event tonight you will get to exercise your option as the #1 contender and face off with champion Vendetta for the RCW Heavyweight title. Of course that match will happen only AFTER you have had your tussle with Waterman. Good luck - you'll need it.

Backlund listens to the fans cheer the announcement that Riggs with have two matches tonight against tough opponents.

Backlund] And just in case you decide to take matters into your own hands again Riggs, or any of you other maniacs in the back, I have been allowed to hire some insurance by Jack Larkin. So, ladies and gentlemen please feast your eyes on the new executive bodyguard.

<<< cue "Crush 'em" by MegaDeth >>>
The fans cheer as the bald visage of Bill Goldberg passes through his pyrotechnics. Goldberg enters the ring wearing an "RCW Means Heritage" t-shirt and black jeans. He poses for the crowd, leaning over the ropes and sticking out his tongue. Debra seems to size him up with a smile on her face while Bob Backlund rubs his hands together like a kid in a candy store.

Backlund] Welcome to Middle America Mr. Goldberg.

Goldberg] Thanks Bob, Debra. It's good to be back in a wrestling ring, and it's good to belong to a stable organization who's leaders can tell the difference between what is right and moral, from what is not right and immoral, and then have the fortitude to stand firmly on the side of justice and morality. And my new job here in RCW is to help Mr. Backlund, Ms McMichael, and Mr Larkin, dispense some of that justice, and enforce their judgment. Mr. Backlund is the judge, you fans are the jury, and I most certainly relish this chance to be the executioner.

Backlund] I hope you heard that Riggs, Silva, Severn, and everyone else in the back who might be thinking that this landscape is without law and order.

<<< cue "Phenomenon" by LL Cool J >>>
The fans jeer and boo Adam Riggs as he goes to the ring accompanied by the amazon like April Hunter. He looks pissed off and takes the time out to pick out a few fans to jaw with and flip off. One of the fans tries to jump the guardrail to get at Riggs but the hands of his friends slow him down and he plops over the other side to the ground. Riggs closes in and is about to lay the boots to the fan when security rushes to the scene and intervenes, removing the fan from the arena.

Riggs finally enters the ring.

Riggs] IS THAT FAT LAZY **** PATHETIC PIECE OF **** THE BEST YOU CAN THROW AT ME WISCONSIN? Where's the Crusher when you need him? How about Lenny and Squiggy they're about the toughest two sons of bitches to ever come out of this godforsaken state. Bow down to me, your god of wrestling. And Backlund is that the best you can throw out at me? That 'roided up, busted up, Goldberg that *** boy? And Waterman? What kind of nickname is H2O? Is that supposed to be scary? It's just plain stupid. I heard you're a born again Christian Waterman. I don't know if its true, but I tell you what, if you cross my path again Waterman, I will rip you a second belly button so the whole world will be able to see that you were born again. Just like those goddamn Mexicans and their refried beans, how come your momma couldn't get it right the first time she gave birth to your sorry excuse of a life Waterman?

<<< cue "Rock the Hell Out of You" by Stryper >>>
The fans cheer, and the announce team gives thanks, as the music of Ron Waterman interrupts the racially intolerant tirade of Adam Riggs. Waterman comes running down to the ring and Riggs allows him to enter with a mic.

Waterman] I'm going to bust you up so bad Riggs. I am going to introduce you to the concept of smiting your enemies.

Riggs] Yeah, your so tough Backlund had to give me two matches tonight instead of one, shows how little faith he has in you to get the job done! I guess he just considers you to be an appetizer.

Waterman] I guarantee you Riggs, you will not be able to walk into that main event match tonight. No way do you walk out of this one on your own two feet.

Riggs] Are you kidding me? You couldn't even defeat my valet here April Hunter...never mind the god of wrestling Adam Riggs!!

Waterman] I could beat you both from pillar to post.

Riggs] Okay then, why don't you make this match a little more interesting, and a little more even then. Let's make it a handicap match, me and April against your worthless 'roided up piece of garbage body.

Waterman] You're on Riggs.


Bout #2
Handicap Match
Adam Riggs & April Hunter v Ron Waterman
After a brief consultation Riggs had Hunter start the match. She challenged Waterman to a test of strength which of course H2O won, turning Hunter's wrists, forcing her to drop to her knees and scream in pain. This reaction caused Waterman to release his hold and back up a few steps. Hunter tried to shake it off but she was in obvious pain. Waterman kept his distance and waved Hunter away, telling her to tag in Riggs. April Hunter though refused and locked up, collar and elbow again with Waterman. This time Waterman walked her into a neutral corner and released clean - only to have Hunter deliver a stinging smack across his face. She tried to follow up with a punch but he just blocked it, holding onto her hand. She then tried to kick him in the "lower" midsection but he anticipated the move and caught her leg with his other arm. He then spun her around and plopped her down to the mat onto her back. Again he urged her to tag but again she would have nothing of it. The two locked up again a couple more times with the fans growing more and more restless, and each time Waterman controlled her, despite her strength but refused to punish her. In frustration Hunter directed referee Jimmy Appleseed to try and make Waterman wrestle a proper match. While Appleseed talked it over with Waterman, and it became obvious that he was refusing as he tried to leave the ring, Riggs played his hand and went to the attack. Riggs left the apron, ran around and blindsided Waterman pulling him down, bouncing his side against the ring apron. Riggs then tossed Waterman into the ringsteps while Hunter looked on with glee, cheering for her man Riggs. As soon as Riggs grabbed a chair referee Appleseed called for the bell DQ'ing Riggs, just as the Irishman ~waffled~ Waterman with a chairshot to his already busted open forehead.
Riggs grabbed the chair again and was about to nail Waterman with another chairshot when from the back came a charging Robert "Blaze" Bayley. Blaze nailed Riggs with a double axhandle to the back knocking him to the ground. Bayley then slammed Riggs into the announce table and set him onto the table. He set him up for a piledriver as inside the ring April Hunter was leaning through the ropes yelling at Bayley to stop. That's why she didn't see Kimberly Page enter the ring from the other side and nail her with a running knee to the back driving Hunter to the floor below.
Bayley drove Riggs through the announce table with a piledriver, and then watched with satisfaction as Kimberly Page devastated April Hunter with a Diamond Cutter on the outside.
Bayley and Page embraced before going to see Waterman, to a huge ovation from the crowd.
Ron Waterman defeated Adam Riggs & April Hunter by Disqualification in a handicap match when Riggs was DQ'd for using a foreign object at 2:27



<<< cue "Diamonds and Rust" by Judas Priest >>>

The fans boo as Diamond Rhodes, and Bam Bam Bigelow make their way to the ring, followed several steps behind by a subservient Paisley. As they climb the ringsteps though, Paisley rolls into the ring and scrambles to pry the ropes apart for the men. They enter the ring and Rhodes gives her an approving pat on the head.

Rhodes] Big-Big-Big-elow...when was the last time you won a wrestling match? Perhaps when flames on pants were still in style? You are o-for here in Middle America big man, and we are all wondering, and waiting for you to get it on track. Now don't get mad big guy, cool your heels a bit, and listen up. I know that you have, well, pent up frustrations that make it hard for you to wrestle. That's why I have Paisley to help me out. And that's why, as a last chance Big-elow, I am offering you this help.

<<< cue "Diamonds and Rust" by Judas Priest >>>

The crowd cheers as Tylene Buck comes down to the ring. She is wearing black and red latex bra and shorts. Her face is a pasty white, with lots of extra make-up splattered across her face along with a white foundation. She does not enter the ring, stopping short on the floor below and crossing her arms behind her back.

Rhodes] Feast your eyes on that Big-elow. I know she's damaged goods, hardly new, but still quite serviceable. My present to you. IF, IF, IF, you can get the job done tonight in the ring. So, Hard-amann Brothers....ohhh..I love the sound of that....so, Hard-amann brothers, if your ready to begin?


Bout #3
Diamonds & Rust: Diamond Rhodes & Bam Bam Bigelow (/w Paisley & Tylene Buck)
v
The Hardamann Brothers: "Lucky" Luke Hardamann & "Wild Thing" Al Hardamann
Bigelow starts the match against Luke like a man possessed, and seeing Buck standing at ringside reminds us why. He chops Luke, followed by a headbutt, bodyslam, and a slingshot splash and gets a near fall.
Bigelow though gets over aggressive, after Luke rolls out of the way of an elbowdrop, the Beast from the East still tries for a dropkick, but Luke again moves out of the way.
Luke tags in Al, and then gives his brother an advantage to work with by dropkicking Bigelow from behind, a move that does not seem to please the straight shooting Al.
Soon Rhodes is tagged in for the first time and he is set upon by Al Hardamann who attacks with a dropkick to the knee and a bulldog. Rhodes though turns in mid-air and lands on Al to counter a back suplex attempt.
The match goes back and forth for a few minutes with Luke continually trying to get Al to help him double team Rhodes or Bigelow. The initial fury shown by Bigelow seemed to have waned a bit, and sensing this Rhodes had Buck stand on the apron and show off her goods, inspiring Bigelow to raise his game to a new level.
Bigelow blocked a punch attempt by Luke, and puts him into an armbar submission. Luke finally makes his way to the ropes for a break, but he's hurting. Rhodes comes in and helps Bigelow double team Luke, while Al goes berserk telling referee Melissa Coats to get Rhodes out of there. Finally Al takes matters into his own hands entering the ring and tossing Rhodes to the outside. He follows Rhodes, and this leaves Bigelow one on one with a damaged Luke. Bigelow sets up Luke for a suplex, only to have it countered with an inside cradle. However, Coates is not their to count as she is distracted trying to get Rhodes and Al Hardamann to stop their brawl outside the ring.
Tylene Buck slides into the ring, behind Luke, and counts the 1, 2, 3, and then slides back out of the ring. Luke untangles himself from Bigelow and is celebrating his victory, and wondering why he is practically alone in the ring, when he is blindsided by Bigelow from behind.
Outside the ring both Paisley and Buck manage to break up the Rhodes and Al brawl by putting themselves between the two men. This frees up Coates to return to the action inside the ring, just in time to watch Bigelow nail his finisher on Luke and pick up the win.
Diamond Rhodes and Bam Bam Bigelow defeated Al Hardamann and Luke Hardamann when Bigelow pinned L. Hardamann with the Greetings from Asbury Park in 0:10:46


Bout #4
Chris Jons v Manny Silva
Jons comes into this match very much the underdog, against the bigger, aggressive former champion Manny Silva.
However, Jons starts strong and soon finds himself with Silva in a cobra clutch, forcing his opponent to flee to the ropes. Jons acquits himself quite well in the opening stanzas of this match, but is forced to play a punch and kick style of game against Silva, which does not favour the cruiserweight. Silva tries to put on an abdominal stretch only to have Jons reverse it. That's the kind of match Silva is having, and it happens again when he goes for a DVD but Jons counters with a small package but only gets a 1 count.
Working in Silva's favour though is his physical toughness and thickness as he is able to shake off much of Jon's offensive maneuvers. Silva nails Jons with a top-rope neckbreaker and the crowd figures it's over, but surprisingly Jons kicks out of the pin attempt after a count of 2. Silva then takes the action outside the ring, bouncing Jon's head off the ringsteps, and then back inside he punishes him with a front-layout superplex, and gets the 1, 2, NO KICKOUT BY JONS!!!
Silva goes for a kneebreaker but Jons fights out of it with punches to the head of the big Hawaiian.
From there the match really turns into a knockdown - drag out brawl that brings the crowd to their feet. The action spills to outside the ring where Silva whips Jons into the guardrail and then rocks him with a football tackle. Jons though fights right back and returns the favour sending Silva into the guardrail, then nailing him with a flying senton, and then a dragon suplex.
Back inside the ring Jons puts Silva into the Dragon sleeper and forces Mad Dog Manny Silva to endure the pain for almost 30 seconds before he reaches the ring ropes for a break. Jons then manages to muscle Silva to the top turnbuckle, but it takes too long to do so and expends too much energy. Silva punches Jons a couple times in the head, then brings him back down to the mat, and perhaps back down to earth with a DDT from the buckle. Silva scoops up Jons and nails him with a powerslam to pick up the win.
Manny Silva pinned Chris Jons after a powerslam in 0:13:48
Rating: ***


Interview
Raymond Bingham is interviewed inside the ring by Joe Aiello. Bingham is upset and a bit embarrassed by his early loss in the Heritage tournament to the youngster Ryland Roxbury. He says its a good thing for the kid that he got injured or else he would be made to pay here tonight. Bingham says he would have liked to have added the Heritage title to his resume, which includes being the PWI Rookie of the year in 2001 (just look at his shirt for a reminder), as well as being the WWA Wrestler of the Year for 2003, and of course being a former WWA North American champion. Aiello says that is all fine and good, but what have you done for me lately? This really makes Bingham lose it, and he puts Aiello in a chokehold.

<<< cue "Crush 'em" by MegaDeth >>>
The music of Bill Goldberg is like a cold shower for Bingham, shaking him from his actions. Even though we never see Goldberg appear just his music is enough to get Bingham to release his hold on the announcer and leave the ring, through the crowd.



Bout #5
NWA WORLD TAG TEAM TITLE MATCH
The Spinebusters: Bryan Caruthers & Jerry Orth (NWA & RCW Champions)
v
From the South African Wrestling Federation: Jayson Moorhouse & MetalHead (SAWF Champions)
Well, three sets of belts were displayed prior to this match, but only one set, the NWA titles were up for grabs. It seems that Commissioner Bob Backlund thought that the 'busters weren't getting enough work lately from the NWA so he brought in the tag champions from the recently revamped SAWF, which at this time is not a member of the NWA.
Moorhouse and MetalHead are a pair of very energetic, hard working, and risk taking youngsters, making them quite the opposite from the Spinebusters. It was all South Africa early on until the NWA champs took over by finally grounding their opponents, cutting the ring in half, and using quick tags coupled with double teaming. MetalHead's mask, complete with soft horns, proved a liability as the busters twisted it around to blind him, distracted him by trying to remove it, and then used the horns for Orth to hold onto wrapped around the ringpost while Caruthers punished MetalHead. In the end the NWA champs were just too much for the youngsters.
The Spinebusters defeated Jayson Moorhouse & MetalHead when Caruthers pinned MetalHead after a spinebuster slam at 7:45


Pre-Match:
<<< cue "Dirty White Boy" by Foreigner >>>
Jamie Knoble comes to the ring accompanied by Sable. They get a mix of cheers with some boos, which seems to confuse Knoble who hasn't clued in yet that the fans are starting to take a disliking to his manipulative valet. Knoble has a mic and says that he has a score to settle with Menele from June when he was taken away on a stretcher.

We are shown highlights from June 19th Rage as Knoble defeats Johnny Rivale, only to have his valet Sable make an open challenge. That turns out to be a mistake as it is accepted by Menele who beats Knoble with a wheelbarrow suplex in decided fashion. We then cut to backstage following that match with Knoble being taken off on a stretcher as a precautionary measure. Sable is confronted by an upset and jilted Al Collins, who is then blindsided by Menele who knocks Collins onto the prone body of Knoble. Menele beats the tar out of Collins and looks like he would have done the same thing to Knoble but stops short when Sable uses her body to shield Knoble.

Coming back to Knoble inside the ring he says that it was those actions that he wants to avenge. Knoble claims that he wasn't ready for Menele last time, because of the impromptu condition of the match, but today is a different story.

He shocks and electrifies the crowd by challenging Menele to a Table Match!!!

<<< cue "Flee" by Kindred >>>

As way of an acceptance match Menele comes charging from the back and enters the ring, immediately attacking Knoble. Referee Jimmy Appleseed comes flying down to the ring seconds later to officiate.


Bout #6
Table Match
Jamie Knoble (/w Sable) v Menele
It's all Menele at the start with a vicious chop right to the throat, followed up with an armbreaker, knee to the back, and shoulder tackle into the buckle. Menele then downgrades to punches and kicks before nailing the West Virginian with a double underhook powerbomb.
Menele retrieves a chair from under the ring and sets it up inside the ring. He tries to put Knoble into a full nelson beside the table but Knoble fights back. He forces a break and then ducks under a clothesline attempt, but before he can get any offense he receives a knee to the gut, taking the wind out of his sails.
Menele throws Knoble to the floor and whips him into the guardrail. He then retrives another table and sets this one up on the floor.
Menele sets Knoble up on the table for a DDT but Knoble blocks it, and suplexes Menele off the table to the ground below. Jamie is up first and throws Menele head first into the ringpost. He then sets him up on the table and climbs to the top rope. He comes off with a splash, but Menele moves out of the way. Knoble catches the edge of the table in a nasty looking spot, upending the table without breaking it.
Menele punishes Knoble with a pair of headbutts before nailing him with his wheelbarrow suplex finishing move on the floor. Menele sets up Knoble again for a DDT, and this time it's Sable making the surprise save by pulling Menele's feet from underneath him. Menele gets up and menaces Sable but before he can get his hands on her, Knoble is up and attacking from behind.
The match stays on the floor and Menele takes control again, overpowering Knoble. He punishes his opponent with a bodyslam, a full nelson slam, and then a shot into the guardrail. Menele lines up Knoble beside the table for a full nelson slam, but it's countered by Knoble with a backward kick to the family jewels.
Knoble takes the action back inside the ring where he nails a springboard dropkick, jumping sidekick, flying lariat, missile dropkick, and a spinnig heel kick which knocks the beast Menele from the ring again.
Knoble sets Menele up on the table and then comes off the ring apron with a moonsault. He hits Menele slightly off center, and the two spill to the ground, along with the table, and it remains intact.
A frustrated Knoble whips Menele into the guardrail, and then repeats, seemingly buying time while he thinks this out. Menele lashes out with a fist to the face of Knoble and then drives a knee to the midsection. Menele goes for an armbreaker but Knoble counters with an elbowsmash to the nose. Knoble ducks under Menele and then takes him down to the ground with a Samoan drop. Knoble sets up Menele on the table and climbs to the top turnbuckle.
But Menele shows signs of life, until Al Collins comes charging to ringside and nails Menele with a running axhandle chop. He then sets up Menele on the table and even holds his legs down as Knoble comes off the top with a moonsault, and this time the table does break.
Very entertaining match.
Jaime Knoble defeated Menele by putting him through a table in 0:11:25
Rating: ****


Post-Match:
Knoble celebrates with Sable, this is a big victory and a bit of an upset. Collins spins Knoble out of the embrace though, and then starts wagging his finger in the face of Sable, much to the pleasure of the fans. Knoble returns the favour spinning Collins out of the conversation, but goes a step further pushing Collins. Al just takes a step back and starts to try and explain to Knoble about Sable being a manipulator, but this just upsets Knoble. He takes Sable by the arm and is about to lead her away when Collins grabs him by the arm again. This time Knoble loses it and turns with a punch to the jaw of Collins. He then kicks the veteran in the stomach and nails a spinning leg lariat. He gets up and looks to do more damage but notices Menele is back on his feet. As he listens to the fans rain down a chorus of boos, Knoble flips the fans off and backtracks. However, when he looks back he sees that instead of following him to the back, his valet Sable is cautiously approaching Menele trying to calm him down. Knoble looks apprehensive but it seems to be working, and Sable is able to with some more coaxing take Menele by the arm. Both Menele and Knoble look a little confused as Sable takes them both by an arm back up the ramp.


Public Service Announcement;
Vendetta is shown wearing a white t-shirt that says "iabolish.com".

Vendetta] Good day wrestling fans. I ask you to suffer me for a few moments as I speak on a condition that unfortunately still exists today, despite our modern world. Slavery. The American Anti-Salvery Group works hard around the clock, and around the globe, to try and end slavery, and to shine the light of public scrutiny onto the evil-doers who keep slavery alive.

Forced work for no pay under the threat of violence - this is the reality for millions of people enslaved today worldwide.

Currently the government of Sudan is committing repeated war crimes and crimes against humanity. Those are not my words but rather the words of Bertran Ramcharan, acting U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. Yet, the security council of the U.N. refuses to act, even re-electing Sudan to a third term on the Human Rights Commission, the world body's human rights watchdog.

I urge you as Americans, living in the land of the free, to do the most important thing you can do - educate yourself. Read about it. You can start at iabolish.com.

Thank you for your time.



Joe Aiello] Well ladies and gentlemen, it has been quite an eventful night. But we haven't maxed out yet, it's now time for our Main Event, for the RCW Heavyweight Title.

<<< cue "Phenomenon" by LL Cool J >>>
Adam Riggs comes to the ring accompanied by April Hunter. Riggs is working his neck from side to side, trying to shake off the effects of being put through a table by Robert Bayley with a piledriver. The pain in the neck however, has not stopped him from continuing to be a pain in the ass.

Riggs] Vendetta, that was so sweet. I can understand why you would be so concerned about those...err...Sudanese indigenous peoples...but why the hell should anyone else care? When Ireland was being torn in half by Britain did we Irish whine and cry? Hell no! We fought back with every weapon we could find, including fear, the greatest weapon of them all. If I could give some advice to the Sudanese it would be to do what the rest of the world does. Find something valuable to sell to America, like oil, and in turn they will sell you weapons of modern military mite. Shock and awe can be yours too, for a price. And if you are unlucky enough to be sitting on nothing worth a damn, then you need to organize some communist rebels, and you can sell your freedom of political process to the U.S. in return...SHUT THE HELL UP, WISCONSIN or I will enter those stands and bitch slap every last one of your putrid faces...BOW DOWN to Adam Riggs the god of pro wrestling...

<<< cue "Dirty Deeds" by AC/DC >>>
Aiello] Its about damn time someone got here to shut his mouth.

Tolbert] For once Joe, I agree with you. I'm eager to see this match too, but I wouldn't bank on Riggs being the one to be shut up.

Vendetta comes to the ring wearing his black trench coat, black wrestling pants and boots. His hair is of course in dreadlocks, with beads the colours of orange, white, and green intermingled in the ends. He has the RCW title held high over his head with both hands as he walks slowly to the ring, never taking his eyes off of Riggs.

April Hunter tries to intercept Vendetta attacking him on the ramp, but he just shoves her to the side, sending her spilling to the ground. He never takes his eyes off of Riggs who urges him on.


MAIN EVENT
RCW Heavyweight Championship Match
Vendetta (champion) v Adam Riggs (/w April Hunter)
Riggs controls early and gets a 2 count after a slingshot splash. Vendetta fights back but a spear attempt is countered by a Riggs' DDT. Riggs controls the match but Vendetta manages to stay alive with some nice counters such as countering a powerbomb attempt with a backdrop. Riggs continues to amaze with his athleticism, for such a big man to do a slingshot splash, and an enzuigiri is amazing.

Riggs continues to control and the fans fear the title is going to change hands. Vendetta stays alive by ducking a clothesline attempt, and then blocking a DDT attempt. Vendetta goes for a waistlock takeover but Riggs counters with a backkick to the groin.

The punishment continues from Riggs as he dishes out an elbowsmash, legsweep facelsam, and a thumb to the throat. Vendetta though blocks an attempted kick and takes Riggs down with a dragon screw. Vendetta chops at Riggs then takes him back down with a reverse Russian legsweep. He then tries to put the Haitian Deathlock on Riggs but Riggs counters it with a roll-up. His hands reach out and lock with April Hunter's for extra leverage as Buddy Lane counts 1, 2, and then makes Riggs break after spotting the help from Hunter.

The fans are going nuts as he struggles in a bearhug in the middle of the ring. Vendetta gets the break, but then falls victim to a tiger suplex, and just barely raises a shoulder to stop the 3 count and a title change. Riggs scoops up Vendetta and runs, delivering the Phenomenal Performance!! Hunter raises her hands in victory as Lane counts 1, 2, KICKOUT!

Riggs can't believe it and slaps the mat, until he regains his composure and begins to pound away at a still fallen champion. Riggs nails a slingshot suplex and then tosses Vendetta over the top rope to the floor below. While Buddy Lane tries to hold back Riggs, April Hunter grabs a chair and runs at Vendetta. The Haitian champ though sees it at the last second and sends Hunter away with a standing side kick.

Vendetta turns around just in time to see Riggs clear the top rope with a dive, and the champ manages to dive out of the way, causing Riggs to wreck himself on the ground.

Vendetta takes the match back inside and nails Riggs with a snap suplex, but only gets a 1 count. Vendetta follows up with an Asai leg lariat, and a springboard back elbow. The champ nails a DDT, and gets a 2 count this time.

Riggs makes a comeback trading punches with the champ, and then nails a spinning DDT and gets a 2 count. The two men continue to brawl, standing toe-to-toe in the middle of the ring. Vendetta sends Riggs to the ropes and Riggs goes for a clothesline, but the champ exhibits some athleticism of his own countering with a crucifix. The champ would have got the pinfall but Hunter reached under the bottom rope and pushed the two men with just enough force to tumble them forward.

Vendetta picks up Riggs and goes for the DDT only to have the big Irishman counter with a lowblow. Riggs nails Vendetta with a swinging punch and then locks on the cobra clutch. Vendetta manages to make his way to the ropes after only a few seconds. The two men then begin to exchange kicks and punches once more. Vendetta goes for a piledriver but Riggs counters with a backdrop. Riggs sends Vendetta to the ropes but it's the champ with the initiative and he nails Riggs with a spear. Riggs is on the mat, stunned as Vendetta locks on the Haitian Deathlock. Riggs tries his best to overcome the pain but he begins to fade. A concerned April Hunter jumps up on the apron and looks like she is going to interfere until Robert Bayley and Kimberly Page come running down to ringside and pull Hunter away. Riggs cries out to Hunter for help, reaching his arms out to no avail. His shoulders are on the mat, and Lane counts, 1, 2, Riggs lifts his shoulder.

Finding some hidden strength, probably fuelled by his intense anger, Riggs finally manages to reach the ropes after over a minute in the deathlock. Riggs uses the ropes to pull himself to his feet and lashes out with a kick to the groin on the champ. He follows with a couple more kicks before taking his arms off the ropes and nailing Vendetta with a legsweep faceslam. Riggs goes for an armbar submission but Vendetta counters it, taking the arm of Riggs, and putting his shoulder under his opponent, picking him up into a fireman's carry. In one smooth motion he has Riggs off his feet, and a fraction of a second later he slams Riggs back first onto the mat. He lies his back across Riggs, unable to hook a leg or even turn over, but it doesn't matter..Riggs is exhausted too. Lane counts the 1, 2, 3.
Vendetta pinned Adam Riggs after a Samoan drop in 0:26:23
Rating: ***1/2
[Vendetta retained the River City Wrestling Heavyweight Title]

Referee Buddy Lane helps Vendetta to his feet and presents him with his RCW title belt as we


FADE TO BLACK

[managermike99]

River City Wrestling #992
2 Hour Edition of RAGE in Syndication
Taped Wednesday, July 21, 2004
Air Date, Saturday July 24, 2004

La Crosse Center,
La Crosse, WI

Attendance: 3,835


<<< cue "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead" >>>
The fans come to their feet and watch the entrance way as Owner and President Jack Larkin makes an unannounced appearance to open the show. He strides to the ring in his Hugo Boss 3-piece suit, and waves politely to the crowd. This is the first time we've seen Larkin in the building for an RCW event since its rebirth several months ago.

Larkin] Hello Wisconsin, and hello fans of RCW wrestling everywhere. A special hello goes out to little 11 year old Sally who's letter I received last week. Sally is in hospital in Omaha, Nebraska and from our family to yours Sally we wish you a speedy recovery.

Now, onto business, and specifically why I am here. First off, I wouldn't have made an appearance just for this reason, but since I am here anyway I should touch on the subject. The fans of RCW come to the shows to be entertained, both by the in-ring action as well as the out of the ring antics and promos of the wrestlers. However, last week's show in my opinion, went dangerously close to crossing the line on many occasions between edgy and unacceptable. This is a public warning to all the boys, and gals, in the back - be careful, damn careful of what you spout.

Another reason I am out here is to promote a big show next Wednesday night in the Twin Cities, July 28th at the Excel Center. It will be our second ever "Night of Champions". And yes, the first one ironically turned out to be our last show before a long black out from television. Let's all hope that history does not repeat itself. However, because of some holidays as well as production changes we will not be taping another show for TV for 3 weeks. Therefore, the footage of what promises to be a 3-4 hour live show next week will be used to produce our weekly Rage TV show for the Saturdays of July 31st, August 7th, and August 14th.

The line-up for Night of Champions II will be jam packed of course. The card so-far is set up as follows;
•NWA Champion Chris Benoit defends his belt against RCW Champion Vendetta
•NWA & RCW Tag Team Champions The Spinebusters will defend their belts against a surprise team.
•NWA Junior Heavyweight Champion Rey Mysterio Jr. will defend his belt against Chris Jons.
•RCW Heritage Champion Vincent Regliatti will defend his belt against an opponent that will decided upon tonight.
•South African Champion Frans van der Heever will defend his belt against Jody Christmas.
•South African Tag Champions Jayson Moorhouse and MetalHead will defend their tag championships against Robbie Royal and Lee Vakis.
•more matches yet to be added

Larkin] And lastly, the primary reason that I've come here in person tonight is to introduce to the great fans of RCW our latest signing, a young man with a whole ton of talent and promise. This is the most promising young talent I have seen come through my door in years. Ladies and gentlemen of Middle America, please welcome to the heartland, "The Tiger" Adam Burke !!!

<<< cue "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor >>>
The physically impressive Adam Burke comes to the ring wearing blue wrestling pants and boots. He enters the ring to a smattering of cheers from the crowd and steps forward shaking hands with the President. Burke looks slightly hesitant but is smiling from ear to ear.

Larkin] Welcome to RCW kid, it's great to have you on the payroll.

Burke] Gee, thanks Mr. Larkin for everything, and thanks to my great fans. It's always nice to receive a second chance, a new lease on life as it may be. The last time I was in a wrestling ring I was just a kid really, I didn't know how to assert myself and how to get ahead. I've grown up a lot since then and I'm finally ready to reach out and grab that brass ring.

Larkin] There you have it ladies and gentlemen, Adam Burke, the eye of the tiger. One day each of you will be able to turn to your kids and say, I was there the night that Adam Burke first appeared in RCW.

Burke and Larkin shake hands vigorously once again.



<<< cue "Phenomenon" by LL Cool J >>>
Adam Riggs and April Hunter come down to the ring drawing the ire of the crowd. Riggs pauses to flip them off and Hunter can be heard calling them all a bunch of cheesehead losers.

They finally enter the ring and Riggs has a mic, which can never be a good thing.

Riggs] BOW DOWN scum to the GOD of pro wrestling Adam Riggs, the Phenom of the squared circle. The man who will retire Vendetta right after I cripple the useless tit known as Robert "Blaze" Bayley. Hey Bayley, what's with the stupid nickname? Are you trying to tell us something? I've long suspected that you are a flaming **** but you don't have to flaunt it. Tonight though *** your ass is mine, and I'm going to make you sore in way that you haven't felt in a long time. I'm going to send you to the hospital tonight because I have your puny little self in the main event match.

Hunter] You tell them LORD Riggs, you tell them all! You are the GOD of pro wrestling and all these useless pieces of shit in the audience should shut the hell up and listen when you speak. SHUT UP! Now, Bayley, just in case you think that little whore girlfriend of yours Kim Page is going to save your scrawny ass tonight I have some bad news for you. I have a contract to wrestle her, right now, right here, and then you can schedule the ambulance to take her to the hospital. But don't you try and leave in the back of the ambulance with her like you did last time, chicken shit piece of..

<<< cue "The Tenth Dimension" by Blaze >>>
The crowd get to their feet and put their hands together for the energetic arrival of Robert "Blaze" Bayley along with Kimberly Page. Page is in shorts, a tank top, and boots and looks ready to wrestle.

They enter the ring together and have a mic of their own.

Bayley] Oh shut the hell up already! You two are both going down in a blaze tonight, a blaze of glory for us, and gory for you two ingrates. I have all the faith in the world in Page and she has learned enough from my friend DDP to take care of herself, even against an Amazonian freak like you Hunter!

Riggs] Hey, sorry man, didn't mean to call you a *** early. It seems pretty obvious that you do in fact like women. And I have to admit that Kimberly, you are one fine piece of ass. Of course, back in the days of the Wolfpack, you were my fine piece of ass, and soon you will be again. That wedding ring didn't stop you from ****** around on your hubby during the days of the pack, obviously it isn't stopping you from servicing Blaze now, and it sure as shit won't stop you when I straddle your prone body in the hospital bed, the tubes coming out of your arms, your head all groggy...

Blaze has heard all he can take and attacks Riggs. The two exchange punches and kicks with Bayley getting the better of the bigger Riggs. Page though turns her back on Hunter to cheer on her man and pays for it with a knee to the back. Bayley and Riggs spill out of the ring and are finally separated by RCW officials and sent to the back, as inside Hunter is slamming Page around the ring.

By the time referee Jimmy Appleseed calls for the bell Page is already in la-la land.


Opening Bout
April Hunter v Kimberly Page
Page never stands a chance. Hunter toys with her, nailing a DDT, a full nelson slam, and then rubbing Page's face across the mat. She lays Page on her back and then delivers a vicious knee to the "sternum". Page rolls over and looks like she is going to vomit. Hunter picks up Page from behind and delivers a "hairplane" spin as Page screams in pain. The vicious Hunter is all business and scrapes Page's face across the top rope. When she rolls Page over and then slingshots her face first into the corner we can see that Page is bleeding slightly from abrasions to her face. Hunter then rips off Page's tank top and starts to choke her with it, with Page trying to cover up as she is only wearing a flimsy white bra underneath. Appleseed has seen enough and calls for the bell.
Kimberly Page defeated April Hunter by disqualification at 2:19
Rating: not-rated

Post-Match:
Hunter continues to try and choke out Page while Appleseed tries to pull her off. Robert Bayley comes running from the back and Hunter makes herself scarce. Bayley takes off his "Blaze" shirt and puts it over Page to cover her up. He helps her to her feet as she looks very wobbly....and then she kisses him squarely on the mouth. When she pulls away he looks surprised but pleased, but she still looks very dazed so he helps her from the ring.


In ring promo:
The fans cheer the Hardamann brothers, Luke and Al who are in the ring with mics.

Al] Well Luke you called for this interview, so let's hear what's on your mind. I have to tell you first though, that I haven't exactly been pleased with your tactics since you've come back to wrestling as my tag team partner. I know how strong your desire to win is big brother, but without honour there can be no glory.

Luke] I guess we just don't see the world the same way little brother. Maybe that's because you had the luxury of eating off of my table when you were little, while I had to drop out of school and take up dock work and pro wrestling to pay the bills, to help out Mom and Dad. Still, I'm very proud of you brother, you have taken your game further then I ever went, and hopefully one day we will see you with the RCW gold around your waist once again. However, my days are done. I just finished consulting with a second doctor this week, and as a result of my most recent concussion I received at the end of our last tag match I am taking the advice of the good doctors and hanging up my boots.

Al] I'm so sorry bro', and I feel like such an ass.

Luke] Don't have to feel that way. I kept you in the dark, because this had to be my decision, and mine alone. I don't have a wonderful wife like your Shiela, or great kids like your Skylar and Ashley. So, this was my decision to make - alone. And I feel better today than I have in a long time. Don't worry about me bro', I already have another job lined up. So best of luck to you Al, and to the fans and management of RCW, thanks for your time and your cheers, and good luck.

The brothers embrace in the middle of the ring, and Luke gives a wave to the fans as he leaves the ring.


Bout #2
Kai Hanson v Marcus Schultz
Strictly a work-out for Hanson. The German wastes no time crossing the ring and disrespecting Schultz with a big slap across the face. Schultz fired right back with a right hand, but was then annihilated with a lariat. Hanson laid in the stomps and then went to work with a hotshot, and an over the shoulder stomach breaker. Hanson wasted time jawing with the crowd and taunting them with a pelvic thrust. The result was Schultz coming within an eyelash of picking up the upset with an inside cradle. Hanson then rocked Schultz again with a lariat and a series of stomps. The former Axis Power member then threw Schultz out of the ring and went to work, sending him hard into the ringsteps, announce table and guardrail. Back inside it was elementary with a German suplex finish.
Kai Hanson defeated Marcus Schultz by pinfall with a German suplex at 3:07
Rating: *


Backstage Interview;
Joe Aiello is backstage with Diamonds & Rust (Diamond Rhodes, Bam Bam Bigelow, Paisley, and Tylene Buck).

Aiello] Dusti..I mean Diamond Rhodes, can you tell me what your plans are for this motley crew?

Rhodes] Joe...Joe...Joe...did you see that sappy display of emotions in the ring from Luke and Al Hard-amann? Those guys seemed like pretty softies to me..nothing hard about them. It was US who gave Luke that concussion, it was us who have forced him from wrestling. Right Bam-Bam?

Bigelow] Yeah right partner. Our motto is we mess with you before you get the chance to mess with us. One less team for us to deal with here in RCW. And one less cry baby pussy to listen to.

From out of camera range we hear someone shout "hey", and Rhodes and Bigelow look displeased. Sam Holiday enters the picture as the cameraman takes a step back.

Holiday] You guys are pathetic standing back here gloating when a man has his career taken away from him. You give yourselves too much credit, a concussion can happen at any time. It's just a freak thing. You should know about freak things.

Rhodes] Ohhhhh..watch it..cow-boy. Or we might just have to saddle you up and ride out into the sunset. Just like poor little Luke. What you bitchin' about anyway boy, your the guy who told him to his face that ya don't like him. We agree with you, we just took it a step further.

We hear more voices and then the cameraman takes more steps back and we see the Spinebusters looking smug, wearing both pairs of belts over their shoulders.

Caruthers] Union meeting boys?

Orth] Nah, looks more like a mensa meeting.

Holiday] What the hell do you two cheaters want?

Caruthers *chuckling*]..cheaters...that's a ripe one. We don't want for nothing man, we have all we need right over our shoulders here. But cowboy you look like General Custer's last stand here, surrounded by the enemy, all looking for your scalp. The only question is which one of the 4 of us is going to take it.

Rhodes] Now hang on their busters. Those are very nice straps you have there, you wear them well. Don't think for a second we care about this cow-boy, what we want is those 10 lbs. of gold over your shoulder. And we are coming..coming..coming for them. So watch your backside.

Holiday] Whooo..hold on their buddy. What makes you think your the number one contenders? I'l bet my bottom dollar that me and Al can beat you boys from pillar to post at Night of the Champions. And then we'll take that gold from you other fellas.

Rhodes] We'll take that challenge cow-boy. And when I am done with you I am going to hot brand your ass like a piece of cattle. I'll be digging my spurs into your sides and making you scream like a little boy.

Holiday] You're a sick ****

The scene breaks up with everyone going their separate ways.



<<< cue "Dirty White Boy" by Foreigner >>>
Just a few weeks ago that music would have brought cheers from the crowd. But tonight it brings jeers as Jamie Knoble and Sable make their way to the ring, doing their best to ignore the crowd.

Knoble] Al Collins, fat Al Collins, fat, old, Al Collins. Get your lard ass down to this ring.

<<< cue "Burning Heart" by Survivor >>>

The fans cheer the long time mid-western staple, Al Collins who brushes aside his comb-over hair as he climbs into the ring.

Knoble] I've had it with you stalking my girlfriend here Sable. She don't want anything to do with you, git it? Now I know you'ben feeling used, well git over it. What the hell do you want?

Collins] What I want is that jezebeel to pack her bags and head East where I'm sure that Vince McMahon will be able to find a use for her limited talents in a more applicable capacity.

Knoble] Huh?

Collins] I want her out of town.

Knoble] Oh. Well that ain't gonna happen. But I'll tell ya what Collins. Let's fight it out right now. If I win then you leave Sable and me alone, forever. You keep your nose out of our bidness.

Collins] I can deal with that. But if I win then she blows town. Oh maybe I should clarify what I mean, she LEAVES town.

The match is set and referee Melissa Coates is sent down to officiate.


Bout #3
Jamie Knoble (/w Sable) v Al Collins
Collins strikes first with a kick to the gut. He then applies some strategy and tries to ground Knoble with some kicks to the legs. Once Knoble is off his feet Collins works his legs over with elbowdrops to the thighs, and slamming his knees into the mat. Collins places his foot on the back of the thigh of Knoble and alternates between wrenching up on the leg and slamming the knee into the mat. Knoble makes it to the ropes for a break and Sable helps him leave the ring. Collins though goes right after him, but Sable steps in the way. Collins tries to get around Sable, but she surprises him with a slap. Sable tries to follow up with an enzuigiri but Collins catches the leg. He has Sable hopping around as he holds her leather encased leg under his arm. He takes his hand and puts it on her thigh and then keeps pulling her towards him, his grip on her leg getting closer to the knee. When he finally has her close enough he gives her a quick peck on the lips and then unceremoniously drops her on her back.
Knoble leaps up and rocks Collins with a flying clothesline. Knoble is incensed and punishes Collins with stomps. He then throws Collins face first under the ring. Knoble straddles Collins's back and sticks his head under the ring apron. He seems to be slamming Collins' head into the ground or an object under the ring. Knoble pulls Collins partially out, and then turns him around. Knoble then slingshots Collins up into the air, and the veteran's head hits the underside of the ring as his chest hits the steel frame with a sickening thud.
Melissa Coates gets in the way, and threatens Knoble with disqualification if he doesn't back up. She then sticks her head under the mat to take a look. When she emerges she's waving her arms and calling for the bell. Knoble and Sable jump up and down and embrace in celebration.
Jamie Knoble defeats Al Collins by referee decision at 3:49
Rating: *1/2


Interview:
Joe Aiello is in the ring.

Aiello] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the man who wants to become the new NWA Heavyweight Champion of the woooorlllld. Vendetta!!

<<< cue "Dirty Deeds" by AC/DC >>>
The Haitian warrior comes down to the ring wearing a white billowy shirt, the RCW title wrapped around his waist, black wrestling pants and boots. His hair is done in dreadlocks with orange, green, and white beads. He enters the ring and gives the "peace" sign to the fans.

Aiello] Welcome Vendetta, the floor is yours.

Vendetta] Hello good peoples of middle America. Thanks for the welcoming most warming. Nobody around the globe wants to beat Mr. Benoit like I want to beat him. Nobody else wants to be the World Champion more than I do. Since I was a little boy I've had such dreams. Windham, Race, Brisco, Funk, they showed the way. I only have to follow it. One night Chris Benoit will be caught, in the wrong place at the wrong time, to the right guy. That right guy wants me to be. I mean I want to be that guy. At the Night of Champions I will have my shot. I have been preparing for weeks for this, while Benoit has to prepare for different adversary every week, over and over again. Someone will beat him, someone will be me.


Bout #4
Bad Intentions Triangle Match - NO DQ, No Countout
Winner to get an RCW Title Match
Dan Severn  v  Manny Silva  v  Menele
This match was set-up featuring three of the most despised, and three of the most dangerous men in RCW. The winner would get a title shot against Vendetta in August, and all 3 men would have no qualms about doing whatever it takes to win.
Appropriately enough the referee assigned to this match was long-time inept official Jurgen Hermann.
The match started with a triple collar-elbow hookup, and Severn and Silva backed Menele into the ropes. Severn caught Silva sideways with an elbow to the chops, and was then given the same by Menele. Menele floated behind Severn into a waistlock and was about to take him up and over when Silva kicked Severn in the gut. Despite that Severn managed to float around and reverse positions with Menele. He took Menele over with a German release suplex, and then was clotheslined to the ground by Silva.
The match quickly turned into a brawl with no attempt to hide low-blows, chokeholds, eye gouges, etc from referee Hermann. The match alternated between the floor and the ring. None of these 3 attempted to stay out of the action at all and let the others do the work. All 3 seemed to gleam happiness out of handing out hurt.
Silva nailed Menele with the wheelbarrow suplex but Severn broke up the pin attempt. Severn took Silva down with a Northern Lights suplex but it was Menele's turn to break up the pin. Finally Menele completed the triumvirate by taking Severn over with a T-bone suplex, but when Silva tried to break up the pin Menele moved out of the way. This caused Silva to stomp on Severn, and then Silva found himself going up and over with a belly-to-back suplex by Menele. He covered for the pin and picked up a huge upset win.
Menele defeated Manny Silva and Dan Severn in a 3-way dance when Menele pinned Silva after a belly-to-back suplex at 9:05
Rating: ***


Interview:
Joe Aiello is backstage with RCW's newest superstar, Adam "the Tiger" Burke. He begins to ask him some question about how he feels now that he has landed in RCW, but Burke is distracted by some noise off screen.
Burke excuses himself and the cameraman follows him. We see Asp Evergreen slinging his gym bag over his shoulder and gives a kick to a chalkboard, sending it flying. Asp walks a few more feet muttering to himself before taking his wrath out again, this time on a defenceless vending machine.

Burke] Hey, hold on their buddy. What's wrong?

Asp] What the hell does it matter to you? Hey wait, you're that new kid Adam Burke right? You failed in a few other feds and now we're taking you in?

Burke] Well that's not really what happened. But what's wrong with you? I thought this was a great place to work, why would you be upset?

Asp] I'm done here. Larkin and Backlund have had it in for me from day one, just because I'm a little different then their idea of a RCW star. Now you, you're their kind of guy.

Burke] Hey man, that's probably not true. I tell you what friend, I used to be just like you. I sure didn't think much of myself or my abilities. Even when I had success in the ring I attributed it to luck or the help of others. But man let me tell you something..."you reap what you sow"...or something like that.  Anyway my point is that it's probably not so bad as all that. What can I do to show you that you shouldn't just quit?

Evergreen] Well it would be nice if I could get a match. It's been weeks since I've been on TV inside the ring. It's humiliating. And when I have been in the ring they've matched me against animals or green rookies, and not professionals. I've never had a match where I could show my aerial, high flying abilities against a classy opponent.

Burke] I tell you what friend. Larkin said if there was anything I needed to just ask. So, I'm going to ask him to put you in the ring against me in my premiere at Night of Champions. We'll have an old fashioned gentleman's match, and both of our abilities will get shown off well. Feel better now?

Asp] Yes, buckets full. Thanks a lot. You really are a nice guy, I guess I shouldn't have doubted that..even after all the bad things the other guys in the dressing room were saying about you.

At this point Asp shakes the befuddled hand of Adam Burke and walks past him, getting a huge grin on his face. Asp winks at the camera as he walks by.

Asp] See you next week for our Gentleman's match. And thanks a lot.


Bout #5
4 Way Match
#1 Contender for the Heritage Title Title Shot at Night of the Champions
Ken Shamrock v Chris Jons v Raymond Bingham v Jack Voight
It would seem that new Heritage champion Vincent Regliatti will have his hands full at Night of the Champions with whichever of these 4 talents emerges the winner of this match.
This was a typical 4 corners match with no-one really grabbing much of an advantage. At around the 5 minute match Voight rocked Jons with a tombstone piledriver and would have got the 3 count but before he could make the cover Bingham reached out and tagged himself in on the back of Voight. Bingham then put Jons in a figure-four leglock. In a very strange move Voight climbed to the top rope and then flung himself down with a crunch right across all 4 legs of Jons and Bingham as they were locked in the figure-four. The move worked all right, as the match had to be stopped temporarily for stretchers to take both Jons and Bingham out of the ring.

When the match resumed it was a brawl between Voight and Shamrock. The two fought from inside the ring to the outside. They stood on the announce table and traded punches, with Voight knocking Shamrock off the table. The World's Most Dangerous Man then reached out and pulled Voight down to his back on the table with a double leg. Shamrock pulled Voight off the table to the ground below. He locked on the ankle lock submission but had to let go after only a few seconds in order to get back into the ring and beat the 10 count of referee Buddy Lane.
Voight and Shamrock continued their battle inside the ring. Shamrock was unable to get a 3 count after nailing Voight with a superplex, and the German was unable to pin Shamrock even after nailing a tombstone piledriver. Voight pulled Shamrock to the top rope and signalled for the tombstone from the top rope. This was a move that Voight used to use as his finisher in his younger days. That was several years and 20 pounds ago. Today it looked like it was going to be a risky venture.
As he lined up Shamrock and the fans held their breath, Chris Jons came hobbling out, returning from the backstage area. He caught up to Voight just in time to throw him off, sending him down to the middle of the mat. Jons went for the pin but Lane wouldn't allow it as Jons wasn't the legal man. Shamrock nailed Voight with a German suplex and Jons watched as he got the 3 count.
Ken Shamrock won the 4-way match by pinfall when he pinned Voight after a German Suplex at 14:24
Rating: *1/2


Interview:
Linley Tolbert is in the middle of the ring.

Tolbert] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome, returning from representing your country, the USA, at the World Cup, J.C.....Jody Christmas !!!

The fans give J.C. a standing ovation as he makes his way down the aisle to the ring. He's going to tell us about the World Cup and..

WHERE DID HE COME FROM??

A man wearing a black and red mask suddenly attacks Jody from behind. He lays him out with a shot to the back of the head. He then slams Jody's head several times into the steel barricade, busting him wide open. The masked man sticks a finger across the bloodied forehead of JC and smears the blood all over Jody's face. He pulls JC's prone body up and then brings him down hard onto the floor with a brain buster. Who is this? Garrison Cade? Michael Shane? A new enemy for Jody Christmas? As security floods the scene the dangerous masked man leaves through the crowd.



MAIN EVENT
Special Guest Referee Bill Goldberg
Robert "Blaze" Bayley vs Adam Riggs

<<< cue "Crush 'em" by MegaDeth" >>>
The fans cheer as Goldberg makes his way through his pyro display to the ring. He is wearing an RCW official referee jersey and takes up station in the ring. The announce team confirms for us that Goldberg will indeed be the special guest referee tonight to try and control the action between Robert Bayley and Adam Riggs.

<<< cue "Blaze" by the Tenth Dimension >>>
Robert "Blaze" Bayley makes his way down to the ring.

ADAM RIGGS comes running down the rampway and ~waffles~ Bayley across the back with a chair. Bayley is down on his hands and knees and Riggs kicks him in the ribs, turning him over. Riggs is poised above him for another chairshot, but he doesn't see the boot of Bayley snake up and ~crunch~ Riggs right in the family jewels. Riggs stumbles away and Bayley struggles to his feet. RCW officials and security come down and struggle with both wrestlers to get into the ring so the bell can sound and the match can begin. Goldberg hasn't moved, opting instead to stay in the middle of the ring the whole time.

Both men are inside the ring, the bell sounds, and promptly both men lock up and tumble out of the ring. Riggs punches, kicks, slaps, and then bodyslams Bayley. He tries to drop a knee but Bayley moves out of the way and then strikes with a backfist to the face of Riggs. Bayley picks up Riggs by the hair, takes a running start to the guardrail and leaps over, hotshotting Rigg's neck across the top of the guardrail. But Bayley wrecks himself into a row of fans and is slow getting up himself. The two men exchange punches and kicks until April Hunter shows up from the back and attacks Bayley from behind. She leaps onto his back, kind of applying a choke sleeper and kind of just screaming into his ear. It works to distract Bayley as Riggs lashes out with a kick to the groin of Blaze. Finally Goldberg leaves the ring and orders Hunter to the back. She refuses, so Goldberg scoops her up in a fireman's carry and takes her up the ramp to the back.

However, this leaves Riggs alone with Bayley and he goes to work. The Irishman grabs a steel chair and nails Bayley across the head, and again, and a 3rd time. Bayley is busted wide open and Riggs throws the chair to the ground. Grabbing Bayley by the hair he then delivers a DDT onto the chair. As Goldberg comes back to the ring Riggs rolls Bayley back inside.

Adam Riggs climbs to the top rope and comes off with a kneedrop right to the forehead of Bayley, sending a splatter of blood flying into the air. Bayley's head pops up, and then drops down. Riggs covers, and gets 1, 2, he pulls him up!

Riggs jaws with Goldberg for a few seconds and then scoops up Bayley. Riggs runs across the ring and delivers the Phenomenal Performance on Bayley. He goes to cover but then thinks better of the idea and just kneels there over his bloodied opponent and smiles at the crowd.

Goldberg tells Riggs to get on with it, so the big man climbs to the top turnbuckle. Kimberly Page runs down from the back, sporting a bandage on her face from the abrasions. She goes to pull Bayley out of the ring by the legs, but Riggs sees her. He reverses course and leaps off the top and axhandles the back of Kimberly as she is prone over top of the ring apron, holding onto Bayley's feet. Page snaps back and hits hard onto the ground where she doesn't move.

Goldberg quickly leaves the ring and puts himself between Riggs and Page. Adam Riggs actually thinks better of hitting Goldberg from behind as paramedics are called for from the back. Riggs goes back inside the ring and peppers Bayley's head with more shots, each one causing the cuts to open up deeper. This is no longer a wrestling match, it's a mugging.

Riggs covers Bayley and taps out the 3 count, but Goldberg isn't there to count as he kneels protecting Kimberly. Riggs leaves the ring and harasses Goldberg to come and make the count. Riggs can hear the crowd go nuts, but unfortunately for him has no idea why. Finally Riggs gives up on Goldberg who is now helping the paramedics, and rolls under the bottom rope. He stands up in the ring, ~and quite unexpectedly finds himself face to face with Vendetta~.

Vendetta knees Riggs in the gut, and then nails him with a DDT. The champion then rolls out of the ring and leaves through the crowd.

Goldberg rolls back into the ring and is surprised to see Riggs is now laying down beside Bayley. He begins a very slow count, and Riggs is on his feet first at the count of 8. The Phenom picks Bayley up into a hanging vertical suplex that he holds for a few impressive seconds before turning it into a brainbuster. Riggs goes for the pin and gets the easy, 1, 2, KICKOUT! Bayley kicked out, and then collapses again to the mat. Riggs scoops up Bayley over his shoulder for another Phenomenal Performance, but as he begins to move Bayley flails away grasping for whatever he can to hold onto. His hands hook on Riggs' kneepad and he manages to drive his weight forward, tripping Riggs, as both men go down in an ungraceful heap. Goldberg counts to 5 before Riggs is on his feet first.

Adam Riggs goes to pick up Bayley but Blaze nails him with a shot to the gut and then tries for the fireman's carry but can't hold the weight. Riggs crashes down onto Bayley, and gets 1, before Bayley rolls Riggs over into a cradle, and gets 1, before Riggs powers out of the cradle reversing it for 1, grabs a hold of the pants of Bayley, 2, kickout.

Both men scramble to their feet. Bayley goes for a clothesline, but Riggs ducks, then Riggs nails Bayley with a clothesline of his own. Riggs nails a scissors kick to Bayley and then drops two knees right into the back of the neck of Blaze. Riggs throws Bayley into the ropes and goes for another clothesline but this time Bayley counters with a crucifix, for a 2 count.

The men stand now in the middle of the ring and exchange punches. Riggs is winning the battle until Bayley surprises him by going for a hurancanranna. But Riggs is too powerful and manages to stay on his feet. He swings Bayley around in the air before powerbombing him to the ground. He pulls Bayley back up and repeats the powerbomb. The big man then flips over pulling the legs of Bayley and bridging his back for a pinfall attempt but only gets 2.

Riggs goes to throw Bayley over the top rope but Blaze manages to hang on to the top strand and swing himself back through the ropes. He catches Riggs by surprise with a standing sidekick to the chest. He takes Riggs down with a single leghook, and tries to turn Riggs over for a half-Boston. Again though Riggs is too big and he rolls to the ropes for a break.

Again both men exchange punches and kicks. You can feel that Bayley is making a comeback. Bayley nails Riggs with a forearm smash uppercut, followed by a pair of swinging punches that back Riggs into the corner. Bayley launches Riggs out of the corner with a belly-to-belly-suplex. He goes to attack Riggs again but suddenly loses his balance, possibly disorientated from loss of blood as he is bleeding profusely now. This delay costs him dearly as Riggs hurts Bayley with a kick to the thigh, and then a flying clothesline. He covers but only gets 2.

Riggs applies more pressure on Bayley for a couple of minutes without being able to get the three count. Bayley catches a break, countering a clothesline with an armdrag takedown and then dropping a legdrop across the throat of Riggs. Bayley then goes on the offensive but he too grows frustrated at not getting the three count. Bayley goes for the Blaze Bomb but Riggs rolls out of the way.

Riggs nails Bayley with a legsweep facelsam, and then follows up with a fistdrop from the top-rope right to the bloodied forehead of Blaze.

Riggs covers Bayley again, this time draping his feet over the second rope and finally gets the 1, 2, 3.

The fans boo unmercifully and begin to pelt the ring with soft drink containers and paper airplanes. An errant Sam Holiday bobble-head bounces off the canvas and nails Goldberg in the thigh.

Adam Riggs defeated Robert Bayley by pinfall after a fist-drop from the top-rope, aided by feet on the ropes at 15:16
Rating: ***1/4


Post-Match:
Vendetta comes running to the ring. He complains to Goldberg about Riggs having his feet draped over the second rope. Goldberg though just seems kind of annoyed at Vendetta being there. Riggs looks like he is going to go after Vendetta but Goldberg intercepts him and orders him out of the ring. The Haitian champ is trying to get Bayley to just stay on the mat and wait for medical help, while he continues to complain to Goldberg about the antics of Riggs.

As we

FADE TO BLACK

[managermike99]

River City Wrestling #993
Taped: Wednesday, July 28, 2004
Air Date: Saturday, July 31, 2004

From the Xcel Energy Center
St. Paul, Minnesota

Attendance; 6,092


We are welcomed to Night of Champions 2 by our ringside hosts, Joe Aiello, Linley Tolbert, and a newcomer to RCW Steven Regal (who just arrived in the Twin Cities via plane 2 hours before bell time).

The event will be split into 3 episodes of Rage and will also feature some "classic" matches and highlights from RCW events of the past.


Opening Bout:
Pacific Coast Jr. Heavyweight Title Match
Haida Warrior (ch) v Jamie Knoble (/Sable)
The promoters made a wise move bringing in this fast rising star from the west coast, as an estimated 600 extra tickets were sold to the local native communities to come see the Warrior.
The Warrior did not disappoint starting strong off the start, returning fire from Knoble's fist with chops to the chest that backed Knoble out of the ring and into the arms of lovely Sable.
Knoble returned to the ring but faired no better, and the Haida Warrior got a near 3 count after nailing a hurancanrana on Knoble out of the corner. Spurred on by his success the Native Canadian star finally made a mistake missing a flying bodypress, and bouncing out of the ring.
Sable laid in the boots on a fallen champ while Knoble distracted referee Jimmy Appleseed. Then the RCW star flew out of the ring and squashed the champion with a Tope Suicida. Knoble took the time out to go to the announce table, grab the mic, and announce to the crowd that they could all kiss his ass because he and Sable were heading to the West Coast right after he took the Warrior's title.
Knoble took it back inside and punished Warrior with a back suplex, moonsault, and a sling-shot legdrop, but could only get a 2 count. Knoble went to the top rope and came down for the leg drop, but the Warrior rolled out of the way.
Both men struggled to their feet but Warrior struck first with a pair of standing side kicks, one to the chest, and then one to the knee that dropped Knoble like a rock. The champ then nailed a rocker dropper on the challenger and was prepared to cover when he saw Sable trying to sneak into the ring. The Haida Warrior though cornered Sable and backed her into a corner. She then tried to distract him by blowing kisses, as the crowd jeered Knoble who was back on his feet and trying to sneak in on the Haida Warrior. Sable then unzipped the front of her black latex catsuit, giving the younster a full frontal view.
Knoble struck with a running knee to the back...but no...the Warrior was not tricked...and he moves out of the way at the last second. Knoble goes smashing into Sable and the Warrior locks the Dragon Sleeper in on Knoble who quickly taps out.
Haida Warrior submitted Jamie Knoble with the Dragon Sleeper at 9:16
[Haida Warrior retains the PCW Junior Heavyweight Title]


Classic Footage:
September 27/03: Rage, Night of Champions....
Dr. John Manfried v Bob Sapp
This feud has been building for several weeks, with Manfried taking offense at Sapp's trying to make a gimmick for himself by injuring younger, smaller wrestlers. Then Sapp made light of Manfried's past, specifically his jail time for manslaughter. These two didn't need to wait for the bell to ring before they were slugging it out in the middle of the ring.
Not a whole lot of scientific wrestling going on in this one. Sapp took control with a chop to the throat, followed by a full nelson slam. He then punished Manfried with a hangman, followed by a choke lift. He released the choke at the 5 count to avoid being disqualified by referee Melissa Coates. Sapp then took the match outside the ring where the two brawled and refused to re-enter the ring. Manfried grabbed the upper hand by pulling Sapp into the ringpost. He then placed the safety guardrail over the Beast's throat and put his entire weight onto it. This was all Coates was willing to take and she called for the bell.
[Manfried and Sapp battled to a double countout at 5:53]

Post-Match:
The two big men continued to try and hurt each other after the match. The first couple attempts to break up the encounter by security were met with force by both combatants. Finally the two were pulled off of each other and taken to the back.


Bout #2
South African Heavyweight Title Match
Frans van Der Heever (ch) v Jody Christmas
Coming off the World Cup Christmas looked tired, and Van Der Heever was probably looking at this as a once in a lifetime opportunity to make a bigger name for himself.
These contrasting levels of motivation showed early as Christmas was on the defensive while van Der Heever did everything he could to try and end the match in his favor. The South African got near falls after a Samoan drop and after a diving headbutt, but Christmas managed to kick out each time.
Then something seemed to click and JC took over the match getting a near fall after a flying forearm smash. JC was tapping his foot and getting ready to administer his superkick...when suddenly the same masked man we saw on RAGE (wearing a black and red mask) slid under the bottom rope. The masked man had a lead pipe and used it to hamstring Christmas and then cracked him right over the head with a vicious shot from the pipe. Christmas fell flat on his face. Referee Melissa Coates bent down to examine him and her hands came away crimson red from blood. She called for help and for the bell.
No Contest at 8:11
[Frans van Der Heever retained the SAWF Heavyweight Title]

Post-Match:
RCW security stormed the ring and this sent the masked man away through the crowd the same way he came. Van der Heever grabbed his title and left, taunting the crowd. The paramedics arrived and tried to take Christmas away on a stretcher. However, JC rose up and fought them off, his head wrapped in an already dark red bandage. Christmas struggled on his own to the backstage area.


Backstage:
Pamela Paulshock makes her return to RCW. She stands outside a non-descript dressing room door.

Paulshock] Hello wrestling fans. I'm Pamela Paulshock, and right now I'm standing outside the dressing room door of the surprise opponents for the Spinebusters tonight...

A very loud crashing sound is heard as something heavy hits the back of the dressing room door, followed by high pitched maniacal laughter.

Paulshock] I was about to say we are going to barge in there and uncover just who these superstars are, but maybe that isn't such a good idea?

From out of the picture comes Bob Backlund and Debra McMichael.

Backlund] What are you doing Pamela? You think you just get paid to stand there looking pretty?

Debra taps Backlund on the shoulder, and then nods to him.

Backlund] Oh, I see. Well I have business to conduct in there because I think that Buddy Lane is inside there right now discussing the rules..

Another loud crash is heard, more laughter, and then the door opens. Buddy Lane flees from inside the dressing room but we are unable to see anyone inside. There is another loud crashing and the dressing room door slams shut.

Lane] Those guys are nuts!!

Backlund] Don't mind them right now Buddy. I need you. Jack Larkin needs you! Adam Burke's match is next and we want you to ref this one personally.

Lane] Sorry Bob, it's Jurgen Hermann's draw.

Backlund] Hermann? That long time inept referee? Forget it Buddy, we need you in this one.

Lane] Sorry Bob, I'm the head referee. I wouldn't do that to one of my officials, and besides, if he's so inept then why don't you guys finally fire him?

Backlund] I donna...he's been here like 20 years I think. Wouldn't really be fair I guess. But look Lane, we're asking you, we're begging you, please ref this one yourself. We want to make sure that Burke gets a square shot against that manipulative jerkoff Asp Evergreen. What do you say? Please?

Lane] Oh, all right, just this time.

Lane wanders off, followed by Backlund and McMichael. Paulshock goes up the dressing room door and is contemplating knocking until she hears a wild, loud scream of pain from inside. She turns away.


<<< cue "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor >>>
Adam "tiger" Burke comes running down the aisle. He slows down enough to high-five many fans, and to throw his sunglasses into the audience. He circles the ring continuing to high-five the fans who are giving him a luke warm reception, uncertain whether this much hyped youngster is the real deal. Inside the ring Burke grabs a mic.

Burke] Asp Evergreen. Last week you seemed to be a guy who just needed a break, someone to say, "don't give up, keep going". I'm glad I did that for you, and I'm happy to share this spotlight that has been given to me with you. I want to be your friend, I really do. But don't for one second think I am a green rookie. I know about your past, I know how you have treated your friends, like Eddie Chavez, and I know enough not to trust you. If you really want to be my friend Asp then you have to earn my trust. I'm not sure why you haven't returned my phone calls this week, I was worried about you, worried you might do something rash. Anyway, our friendship is not getting off to a great start, but hopefully that will change with our little gentlemen's match here tonight.

<<< cue "Asp" by Savatage >>>
Asp Evergreen comes down to the ring to jeers from the crowd. He is accompanied by his manager Derek St. Holmes, ESQ who takes up position in the corner. Inside Asp takes the mic gently from Burke.

Asp] Did you call? I'm sorry Burke I didn't know. I guess Eddie Chavez' Mom didn't give me the message. But that's okay that's about all she didn't give to me. Anyway, yes Adam I am ready for our little gentleman's match here tonight. But you know what? I was wandering around backstage earlier and I bumped into this incredible young guy. His name is "Hawkeye" Trent Hirst and he's been wrestling up North in Winnapig and he came down here tonight, on his own dime, in hopes of getting on TV. I know how hard you and I had to work for our opportunities Adam, and that's why, if it's all right with you that is, I have invited Hirst to join us in this match, making it a 3-way dance.

Burke] You know something Evergreen, that was real nice of you. Maybe I really have misjudged you. Of course it's okay for Hirst to join us.

Trent Hirst comes down to the ring looking quite happy. He enters the ring and shakes hands with Burke and then with Evergreen. Asp and Adam then also exchange a handshake. Buddy Lane now joins them inside the ring. He announces that this will be a Triangle match, meaning only two men will be legal at a time, with the 3rd man having to tag in. It will be one pinfall only.


Bout #3
Triangle Match
Adam Burke v Asp Evergreen (/w Derek St. Holmes) v Trent Hirst
Evergreen "graciously" offers to let Burke and Hirst start things off. Burke takes Hirst down to the ground with a hiptoss but Hirst then knocks Burke down with a legsweep. Both men kip up their feet, stare at each other, and then lock up again. Burke soon takes control and punishes Hirst with a pair of clotheslines and a German suplex. He goes for a frog splash but Hirst rolls out of the way.
Suddenly Evergreen is going crazy asking for the tag from Hirst. The RME star crawls over to the corner and tags in Evergreen who quickly scrambles over and covers Burke, but only gets a 1 count. Asp presses the attack on Burke with some high-flying moves but can't hurt the athletic Burke enough to get a 3 count. Frustrated Evergreen signals for Hirst to come in while he holds Burke from behind and to double team. Hirst though shakes his head no, and Burke drops down and rolls Evergreen over into a pinning predicament and gets a near fall.
Burke goes right after Evergreen and punishes him with a slingshot splash and then a Tornado DDT but only gets a 2 count. Evergreen managed to evade the Tiger's Claw by leaving the ring. When Asp returned he tagged in Hirst. "Hawkeye" had some initial success against Burke but the Tiger soon fought back. Evergreen entered the ring to attack Burke from behind but instead Hirst used the hunched over back of Burke to spin off of and deliver a well timed kick to the solar plexes of Evergreen, knocking him onto his butt.
Hirst however then turned around, right into the Tiger's Claw (superkick). Burke then looked undecided whether to pin Hirst after seeing the downed Evergreen. However he relented and pinned Hirst, but NO, Hirst kicked out at the count of 2. Reluctantly Burke waited for Hirst to get to his feet again to deliver another Tiger's Claw. However, Derek St. Holmes decided to jump up on the apron and begin to climb into the ring, so Burke reeled around and ~waffled~ Holmes with the Tiger's Claw.
This time it was Burke's misfortune to turn around right into a finisher, a Dungeon's Bridge submission taught to Hirst in the Hart's infamous dungeon. Huge upset!
Trent Hirst defeated Asp Evergreen and Adam Burke when he submitted Burke with the Dungeon's Bridge at 9:31


Classic Footage:
September 27/03: Rage, Night of Champions
#1 contendership for the RCW Heavyweight Title
Ron Simmons v "Mad Dog" Manny Silva
Started off as a slug fest but Silva gained early control with a powerslam. He dropped a series of elbows to the sternum, and followed up with a series of stomps. He then climbed the top rope and came off with a big knee again to the sternum. He went for the pin but only got a 2 count from Jimmy Appleseed.
Simmons blocked a vertical suplex attempt, which made Silva resort to kicks and punches once more. Simmons finally blocked a punch, and spun Silva into the corner where he peppered him with shots to the gut and then added a vicious headbutt for good measure.
The company enforcer then slid out of the ring and pulled Silva face first to the mat by yanking on his feet. He then pulled Silva backwards, crotching him into the ringpost. He received a stern warning from Appleseed for this, but Simmons seemed pretty angry and gave Jimmy a bit of a push to the side.
Silva tried to fight back but Simmons was on a roll now, and nailed a pair of elbows to between the eyes, and then delivered his running powerslam finisher. He got the 1, 2, kickout! by Silva.
Frustrated Simmons tossed Silva over the top rope to the floor below. He then climbed to the top turnbuckle and attempted to come off with an axhandle to the back of the former champ. However, the mad man turned around just in time and got in a gut shot to Simmons. He followed up with a series of very controlled short knees to the head of Simmons before rolling him back into the ring.
Silva put Simmons in the camel clutch, but Simmons managed to bridge his back and get out of the hold. Silva then took Simmons face first into the corner, and then delivered a series of elbows to the lower back. He then grabbed onto the ropes on either side of Simmons and pushed his head into the lower back of Ron Simmons until having to break it at a count of 5.
Silva then went for a suplex, but Simmons hooked the leg to block it, and rolled Silva up into a pinning combination, for a 1 count before Silva rolled through it, hooked the tights, and got a near fall. Back onto their feet Silva ducked under a Simmons clothesline and then retaliated in kind, knocking the Georgian on his back. Silva grabbed the raised legs of Simmons, and then dropped a knee right into the groin. Appleseed missed this as he was changing positions and it was blocked from his view. Silva then rolled up Simmons and got the 1, 2, 3.
[Manny Silva defeated Ron Simmons by pinfall at 7:51 after a kneedrop to the groin]
[Manny Silva is the #1 contender for the RCW Heavyweight Title]


Bout #4
RCW & COMPLEX Mixed Tag Match
Ron Waterman (RCW) & John Walters (Complex) v Raymond Bingham (RCW) & Gabriel Moore (Complex)
Walters appeared pumped for this match and wanted to start it off against his nemesis from COMPLEX, Gabriel Moore. But Moore demurred and had the cocky Bingham start the match instead. Walters locked up with Bingham, and the former PWI Rookie of the year sent Walters down with a hiptoss, then another when he regained his feet. Walters got up a third time, only to once again go down, this time to a Bingham standing dropkick. Bingham backed away and then mocked Walters by doing some warm-up jumping jacks.
This was a mistake as when they locked up again Walters put Bingham into a hammerlock, and then picked him up, and slammed him to the mat still in the lock. He dragged Bingham to his feet again, screaming in pain, and then slammed him back to the mat, still in the hammerlock. Walters tried to end the match early with a Gory driver but Bingham punched his way out of the hold and then took Walters down with a clothesline.
Walters tagged in Waterman who came in a house of fire, kicking and headbutting Bingham in the gut and chest. Waterman poured on the offence with a running clothesline followed by a bulldog. He would have got the 3 count but Bingham managed to drape a foot over the bottom rope.
Waterman then set up Bingham for the Water Bomb, only to have Gabriel Moore enter the ring and strike from behind with a kick to the back of the calf. Moore then nailed Waterman with a reverse DDT before being taken out by John Walters.
Referee Jimmy Appleseed tried his best to restore order but Moore and Walters were going at it outside the ring, and Waterman and Bingham were exchanging pleasantries inside as the legal men.
Bingham took an opportunity to low blow Waterman and make a tag to Moore. The self-proclaimed prophet took it to Waterman with a series of kneedrops, followed by a moonsault which got a 2 count. Moore tried to scoop up H20, presumably for the WWJD, but Waterman was too heavy and strong, and managed to shift his weight and come crashing down on Moore. Waterman pinned Moore, and got 1, 2, but Moore reached out and slapped hands with Bingham to make the tag.
Bingham went to work on Waterman with a dropkick, ropeflip clothesline, and a revere neckbreaker. He tried to get Waterman to submit with a surfboard submission but H2O powered out and tagged in Walters.
The Hurricane took it right to Bingham with a series of chops, a snap suplex, and then a missile dropkick. He went for the pin but it was broken up rudely by a stomp to the back of the neck from Gabriel Moore. Waterman bull rushed Moore and bodychecked him right out of the ring. Walters still feeling the effects of that boot to the back of the neck tagged in Waterman. The big man sent Bingham to the ropes and then took him down with a drop toe hold, that he then converted into an ankle lock submission. Bingham lasted only a few seconds in the hold, and tapped out as Walters took out Moore who once again tried to interfere.
Ron Waterman & John Walters defeated Raymond Bingham & Gabriel Moore by submission when Waterman made Bingham submit to the ankle lock at 10:29



MAIN EVENT #1
NWA & RCW TAG TEAM TITLE MATCH
The Spinebusters: Bryan Caruthers & Jerry Orth (champions) v "mystery opponents"

<<< cue "Till it Sleeps" by Metallica >>>
The fans jeer as the pair of very pissed off looking Spinebusters make their way to the ring, title belts draped over each shoulder. They enter the ring and demand to know who their opponents will be.

<<< cue "Psycho Man" by Black Sabbath >>>
TEAM EXTREME !! One of the most dominant tag teams in PWA/WWA history have returned to North America! Despite being long term villains the fans cheer the duo wildly, partly due to surprise and partly due to visions of seeing the Spinebusters pay for their bad deeds in blood. Kit Carson and Khris Germany waste no time, trying to make the best of their surprise they hit the ring fast.

Referee Buddy Lane calls for the bell as all 4 men go at it tooth and nail.

Kit Carson takes an early advantage on Jerry Orth, and Team Extreme shows the Spinebusters just who perfected the double team, frustrating the champs with quick tags and double team bodyslams and kneelifts.
Carson thinks about bringing in a steel chair but Buddy Lane warns him that will be a DQ, so he drops it. The delay however allows Orth to roll to his corner and make the tag to Caruthers.

Germany enters the ring and Caruthers takes him down with a single leg takedown and then drops an elbow into his "lower midsection". Caruthers spreads Germany's legs and drops a heel again just above the groin. "Plan B" Bryan Caruthers then locks in a sleeperhold on the kneeling Germany, who fights his way to the ropes after about 20 seconds.

Carson runs along the apron and knees Caruthers right in the head on the break. This allows Germany enough time to recover to make the tag. Caruthers tags out as well.

Both teams get into a rhythm after that and take turns with the advantage until Orth once again finds himself face to face with Carson just after the 12 minute mark.

Orth tries to punch it out with Carson but ends up on the short end of the stick. Carson goes to work with an eye gouge, a kick to the midsection, a lariat, and a swinging neckbreaker for a count of 2.

Carson sets up Orth for a piledriver near the corner and Germany climbs to the top for the stuffed piledriver, a double team move that the Spinebusters have been using a lot. But that sort of double teaming is illegal in RCW and referee Buddy Lane steps between the two Extreme team members. Germany loses it and is about to come off the top rope and nail Buddy Lane but Caruthers had entered and gets in the way. Germany comes off the top rope and eats a fist to the gut from Caruthers, and both men topple backward and smack into Buddy Lane. The ref is down and out.

All hell breaks loose. Caruthers and Orth double team Germany until Carson goes and gets a chair from under the ring. Apparently this is a chair that Team Extreme must have planted because it is wrapped up in barbed wire and Christmas lights. Carson nails first Caruthers and then Orth with the chair. Caruthers is bleeding from the back, and Orth from the forehead. Carson then bodyslams Orth right onto the chair and the broken glass from the Christmas tree bulbs.

Referee Jimmy Appleseed comes onto the scene and rolls Lane out of the ring to safety. Khris Germany leaves the ring and bullies Appleseed into coming into the ring to make the count. The earlier cheers that Team Extreme heard are now being replaced by mostly jeers.

Carson nails Orth with a piledriver and then covers him for the 1, 2, KICKOUT!! Somehow Orth managed to kick out.

Appleseed gets in the face of Germany and forces him out of the ring. This allows Carson though to choke and then chop the throat of Orth. Carson nails a swinging neckbreaker and goes for the pin, and gets 1, 2, Caruthers breaks it up!

Khris Germany comes into the ring and nails Caruthers with a flying forearm. He takes him outside and the two fight around ringside with Germany gaining control. Germany drags Caruthers onto the announce table and bounces his head off of it with a DDT.

Back inside Carson lines up Orth for another piledriver on the barbed wire chair but Appleseed kicks the chair out of the ring. Carson nails the piledriver anyway, and this time he does get the 3 count.

We have new champions!!!

Team Extreme defeated The Spinebusters by pinfall when Carson pinned Orth after a piledriver at 17:01
[Team Extreme have won the NWA & RCW Tag Team Titles]


Team Extreme celebrates in the ring and the fans boo, filling the ring with debris. Jimmy Appleseed is explaining the situation to a revived Buddy Lane as we


FADE TO BLACK