----Real South Wrestling Federation starts this weekend with a weekly show in Olive Branch, MS. The show is going to be run by Soultaker. I am being told that “24/7" [Kross & JR Mauler] are also going to involved in the booking of the show, which is the reason they lost a loser leave XOW match Saturday night. The show should do well in Olive Branch, if they do some advertising and put on a good show. Rumors are that TV5 out of Memphis is going to be looking at the show for possible Saturday morning spot.
----The major story coming out of all of this though is that RSWF debuts with a lot of the regular XOW talent and will hurt them at the start. Along with “24/7”, it looks like Justin Rhodes, Bonecrusher. Cassonova Kidd [for two weeks] and to everyone’s surprise XOW Champion – Danny B is headed there. Apparently people knew that Soultaker was going to start a promotion, but was surprised it was so quick and soon. It also put XOW on the ropes when their champion walks out without dropping the belt. I am sure they will bounce back and it should be interesting to see what happens with RSWF.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
RassleResults: TLCW Ripley, TN 4.14.07
Tattoo beat Rockin' Randy
Dell Tucker came out in the middle of the match. They said he was checking out his competition. He held Tattoo's hand up after he won.
"The Golden Boy" Greg Anthony beat Tommy Redneck in a non title match. Crowd did not know Redneck. It was a real long match. TGB got on the mic afterwards and said everyone had to respect him.
"The Filthy Freaks" (Tim Grind, Matt Foley, Alex Krisis, and Hollywood) came out.Tim introduced Krisis as the new member of the freaks. Tim told Flash that if he wanted a match with him he had to run the Filthy Freaks Gauntlet. He said if he could beat Foley, Krisis, and Hollywood he could have a match with him.
Seth Knight beat Foxy Hayes to retain his TLCW hardcore title. Afterwards Rockin' Randy attacked Knight, and busted him open.
"Picture Perfect" [Jon Michael/Christian Jacobs] came out and said they did the fans a favor, by putting "Hot Topic" [Derrick King/Stan Lee] back together. This got loud Hot Topic chants going. They then said they wanted a match with Hot Topic. They then said that Hot Topic's careers would be just like their parents....dead, which brought out Hot Topic who chased Picture Perfect away.
Rude beat Chris Lexx after Blaylock the Blazer (not Jimmy) interfered.
"Genocide" [Maxx Corbin/Albino Rhino] and Ike Tucker came out to basically promote The big TLCW Mayhem show on May 12th, at the Ripley National Guard Armory. Genocide said they wanted a tag title shot against whoever the champs was at Mayhem. Tucker said that him and his Rhythm & Blues would also be there. Ike hummed a few bars, and got a big pop from the crowd.
Picture Perfect beat Hot Topic
PP won clean in the middle which makes you wonder where this feud is going.
Flash Flanagan beat Foley. He then beat Krisis. Hollywood came out, but ran back to the back. Grind said that there was one more member of the Freaks he had to beat before he got to fight him. He introduced him as the biggest and baddest Filthy Freak....Jethro. Flash won that by DQ. Grind beat Flash with a lot of interference. They busted Flash open pretty good. Tim said he was gonna kill Flashamania. He then said to borrow a line from his brother from another mother..." That's the business dawg"
----About 250 in the building, about 200 paid. A gate of $1200. It was a huge crowd. It was about as big as when Brian Christopher was there and the "First Big Show of The Year". There wasn't any room for anyone else, to even stand. Good show for the most part...Not sure all the storylines leading up to the big "May Mayhem" show, but this group should break their attendance record at the National Guard Armory that night. Wrestling overall is drawing good numbers and this promotion has been hot all year long.
Dell Tucker came out in the middle of the match. They said he was checking out his competition. He held Tattoo's hand up after he won.
"The Golden Boy" Greg Anthony beat Tommy Redneck in a non title match. Crowd did not know Redneck. It was a real long match. TGB got on the mic afterwards and said everyone had to respect him.
"The Filthy Freaks" (Tim Grind, Matt Foley, Alex Krisis, and Hollywood) came out.Tim introduced Krisis as the new member of the freaks. Tim told Flash that if he wanted a match with him he had to run the Filthy Freaks Gauntlet. He said if he could beat Foley, Krisis, and Hollywood he could have a match with him.
Seth Knight beat Foxy Hayes to retain his TLCW hardcore title. Afterwards Rockin' Randy attacked Knight, and busted him open.
"Picture Perfect" [Jon Michael/Christian Jacobs] came out and said they did the fans a favor, by putting "Hot Topic" [Derrick King/Stan Lee] back together. This got loud Hot Topic chants going. They then said they wanted a match with Hot Topic. They then said that Hot Topic's careers would be just like their parents....dead, which brought out Hot Topic who chased Picture Perfect away.
Rude beat Chris Lexx after Blaylock the Blazer (not Jimmy) interfered.
"Genocide" [Maxx Corbin/Albino Rhino] and Ike Tucker came out to basically promote The big TLCW Mayhem show on May 12th, at the Ripley National Guard Armory. Genocide said they wanted a tag title shot against whoever the champs was at Mayhem. Tucker said that him and his Rhythm & Blues would also be there. Ike hummed a few bars, and got a big pop from the crowd.
Picture Perfect beat Hot Topic
PP won clean in the middle which makes you wonder where this feud is going.
Flash Flanagan beat Foley. He then beat Krisis. Hollywood came out, but ran back to the back. Grind said that there was one more member of the Freaks he had to beat before he got to fight him. He introduced him as the biggest and baddest Filthy Freak....Jethro. Flash won that by DQ. Grind beat Flash with a lot of interference. They busted Flash open pretty good. Tim said he was gonna kill Flashamania. He then said to borrow a line from his brother from another mother..." That's the business dawg"
----About 250 in the building, about 200 paid. A gate of $1200. It was a huge crowd. It was about as big as when Brian Christopher was there and the "First Big Show of The Year". There wasn't any room for anyone else, to even stand. Good show for the most part...Not sure all the storylines leading up to the big "May Mayhem" show, but this group should break their attendance record at the National Guard Armory that night. Wrestling overall is drawing good numbers and this promotion has been hot all year long.
RassleResults: LAW Rector, AR 4.13.07
Tim Alfonso beat Rockin' Randy
"Cosmic Cowboy" Brian Steele beat Shannon Lee - Cowboy used a chain.
Stan Lee beat TGB by DQ when "Picture Perfect' [Jon Michael/Christian Jacobs] interfered. They told Stan to find him a partner for later on.
Psycho beat Dell Tucker and Alex Krisis in a 3 way Hardcore match. They sold trash can lids autographed for 3 dollars to fans for the wrestlers to use in this match.
Stan Lee & Chris O'Neal versus Picture Perfect
It ended in a no contest after TGB interfered. They beat down Lee and O'Neal. The LAW owners come down, and got beat down too. It was the same ending they have had for the last three weeks.
----80 people was there with a gate of $480...I was told that "the show pretty much sucked cause everyone was in Tunica."...Best Match was the main event...This group has a few big shows in May at Rector with Kid Kash, Brian Christopher and Jerry Lawler.
"Cosmic Cowboy" Brian Steele beat Shannon Lee - Cowboy used a chain.
Stan Lee beat TGB by DQ when "Picture Perfect' [Jon Michael/Christian Jacobs] interfered. They told Stan to find him a partner for later on.
Psycho beat Dell Tucker and Alex Krisis in a 3 way Hardcore match. They sold trash can lids autographed for 3 dollars to fans for the wrestlers to use in this match.
Stan Lee & Chris O'Neal versus Picture Perfect
It ended in a no contest after TGB interfered. They beat down Lee and O'Neal. The LAW owners come down, and got beat down too. It was the same ending they have had for the last three weeks.
----80 people was there with a gate of $480...I was told that "the show pretty much sucked cause everyone was in Tunica."...Best Match was the main event...This group has a few big shows in May at Rector with Kid Kash, Brian Christopher and Jerry Lawler.
RassleResults: TIWF Jackson, TN 4.14.07
----Lawman Williams beat Azreal...TIWF Tag Team Title Match: Steven Rampage beat "Highrollers" in a handi cap match set up by Allen Walker to win the belts...TIWF Cruiserweight Title Match: Way Cool by Dq over PK Ripper, when the ref caught PK with chair that WC had threw at him to catch...TIWF Title Match: Big Boy Bob beat a "Fake" Steven Rampage [Azreal]..."Missouri Bad Boys" [Renegade/Mark Southern] beat "Black Label Society] [AJ Bradley/Void.
----112 in the crowd with a 86 paid and a gate of around $430...Azreal came out dressed just like Rampage and took a beating from Bob. Rampage ran out after the match and put his finisher on Bob. Rampage has been a heel here for a long time, but is getting good face cheers in the "Old School" feud...MBOYS vs BLS in on 4.28.07 with AJ's Hair vs Allen Walker in the ring for 5 minutes.
----112 in the crowd with a 86 paid and a gate of around $430...Azreal came out dressed just like Rampage and took a beating from Bob. Rampage ran out after the match and put his finisher on Bob. Rampage has been a heel here for a long time, but is getting good face cheers in the "Old School" feud...MBOYS vs BLS in on 4.28.07 with AJ's Hair vs Allen Walker in the ring for 5 minutes.
RassleResults: XOW Ecru, MS 4.14.07 - "24/7" Leave XOW
David Cross d. Cassanova Kid. Buzz Harley d. Pappy. Izzy Rotten d. Brett Michaels. "Canadian Brotherhood" [Big Canadian & DK] d. Bonecrusher & Soultaker. Neil Taylor d. Jay Webster. “Pure Destruction” [Cody & Brody Hawk] won a three-way tag team match over "24/7" [Kross & JR Mauler] & The Manson Brothers. PD retains Tag Team belts. Match stipulation was that if “24/7” did not win they would have to leave, so “24/7” is gone from XOW. Danny B. Good d. Cassanove Kid to retain the XOW title.
Crowd was about 85 with a gate close to $425.
Crowd was about 85 with a gate close to $425.
RassleResults: TFW Tupelo, MS 4.13.07 - New Champ!!
Chris Styles d. Jay Webster by count out. Mark Mayhem d. Little Stevie Davis. DC d. Chris Chaos by DQ. Chazz & Chop Top the Clown d. Dirty Sanchez & Mr. Nasty. Josh Matthews d. Chris Styles. Hitman vs. Judas Thorn ended in a double count out. Special Ed defeated Tony Dabbs to win the TFW Championship.
Crowd was about 100 with a gate close to $500.
Crowd was about 100 with a gate close to $500.
DVD Release Dates!!!
----Here are all the release dates for upcoming DVDs. I will annouce more as soon as they become available. These will also be listed in the SHOP from the main page.
*May 1 “As Good As Gold” “The Golden Boy” Greg Anthony
*May 8 “Human Highlight Reel” – Austin Lane
*May 15 “New Daisy Theatre Hardcore Homecoming” – All Pro Productions 3.10.07 show from Memphis, TN
*May 22 – “Spring Break-out 2007” – NBW Special Event from 4.14.07
*May 29 – “My Life with Jimmy Valiant” Kenny Valiant release with clips never shown on TV!!
*June 4 – The Two Faces of Brian Tramel – Coach BT/BT Express – “Bad As It Gets” aka “The Very Very Worst of BT!”
*May 1 “As Good As Gold” “The Golden Boy” Greg Anthony
*May 8 “Human Highlight Reel” – Austin Lane
*May 15 “New Daisy Theatre Hardcore Homecoming” – All Pro Productions 3.10.07 show from Memphis, TN
*May 22 – “Spring Break-out 2007” – NBW Special Event from 4.14.07
*May 29 – “My Life with Jimmy Valiant” Kenny Valiant release with clips never shown on TV!!
*June 4 – The Two Faces of Brian Tramel – Coach BT/BT Express – “Bad As It Gets” aka “The Very Very Worst of BT!”
Monday, April 16, 2007
Extreme Wrestling Entertainment Ripley, MS 4.13.07
*"Kings of Rock" (Chris Fontaine and Tysin Starr) beat Omega and Kage w/ Kandi
*Cassanova Kidd beat Keylo Green w/ Bobby Wylde after a Frog Splash off the 2nd rope
*Dalton Storm and Slammer beat Danny Morris and Nathan Williams
*AC Styles beat Prime Time Nick Grymes in a No DQ Match to become the first EWE Intercontinental Champion after making Nick tap to a Texas Cloverleaf. After the match while AC Styles was celebrating, Nick hit AC in the back with a chair, handcuffed him to the ropes and hit him in the head several times with a chair, before taking the microphone and telling AC that it wasn’t over, and that next week he'd be taking the belt away from AC and putting it where it belongs, around his waist.
*Bonecrusher beat Kross by dq when Kross through powder in the eyes of Bonecrusher.
*Buzz Harley beat "Juicy" Johnny Morton after a Buzz-cutter
1st of 2 Number One Contender Battle Royals
*Buzz Harley won a 11 man Battle Royal to advance to 4/27's EWE US Heavyweight Title Match.
Participants Included - Buzz Harley, Cassanova Kidd, Chris Fontaine, Kross, Prime Time Nick Grymes, Bonecrusher, Slammer, Dalton Storm, Danny Morris, Nathan Williams, and Johnny Morton.
---- 60 people in the crowd with a gate close to $300…I believe this was their debut show in this town and they plan to run weekly...They announced that next week Bonecrusher and Justin Rhodes will defend the Southern Tag Titles against 24/7 (Kross and JR Mauler) This group is already in talks of running Saturday night road shows. The promoter is suppose to be meeting with the Walnut, MS town committee about running a show at the Freedom Festival which is held every July 4th night, thousands of people attend this event to see the bands, and big firework shows. So if they get this, it should be great publicity for the new company...No date is set but look for Traci Brooks, ODB, and Christi Ricci to be appearing soon as well.
*Cassanova Kidd beat Keylo Green w/ Bobby Wylde after a Frog Splash off the 2nd rope
*Dalton Storm and Slammer beat Danny Morris and Nathan Williams
*AC Styles beat Prime Time Nick Grymes in a No DQ Match to become the first EWE Intercontinental Champion after making Nick tap to a Texas Cloverleaf. After the match while AC Styles was celebrating, Nick hit AC in the back with a chair, handcuffed him to the ropes and hit him in the head several times with a chair, before taking the microphone and telling AC that it wasn’t over, and that next week he'd be taking the belt away from AC and putting it where it belongs, around his waist.
*Bonecrusher beat Kross by dq when Kross through powder in the eyes of Bonecrusher.
*Buzz Harley beat "Juicy" Johnny Morton after a Buzz-cutter
1st of 2 Number One Contender Battle Royals
*Buzz Harley won a 11 man Battle Royal to advance to 4/27's EWE US Heavyweight Title Match.
Participants Included - Buzz Harley, Cassanova Kidd, Chris Fontaine, Kross, Prime Time Nick Grymes, Bonecrusher, Slammer, Dalton Storm, Danny Morris, Nathan Williams, and Johnny Morton.
---- 60 people in the crowd with a gate close to $300…I believe this was their debut show in this town and they plan to run weekly...They announced that next week Bonecrusher and Justin Rhodes will defend the Southern Tag Titles against 24/7 (Kross and JR Mauler) This group is already in talks of running Saturday night road shows. The promoter is suppose to be meeting with the Walnut, MS town committee about running a show at the Freedom Festival which is held every July 4th night, thousands of people attend this event to see the bands, and big firework shows. So if they get this, it should be great publicity for the new company...No date is set but look for Traci Brooks, ODB, and Christi Ricci to be appearing soon as well.
RassleResults: CWA Selmer,TN 4.14.07
*Brian Steele with Jim Casey beat Chris Gilgore
*JJ Fuller vs Danny Morris – Dustin Starr/Matt Boyce jumped both guys
*Chris Rocker/Chris O’Neal over “Blackout Squad” [Bishop/Oz] when Bishop used the skull for DQ.
*Don Bass beat Shannon Lee
*CWA Tag Team Title Match The Posse beat Dustin Starr/Matt Boyce – BOS and Hollywood Jimmy jumped them after the match – O’Neal/Rocker made the save..
*Battle Royal – End of it had O’Neal and Don Bass..The Posse jumped BOS in the battle royal and they brawled to the back.
----150 in attendance with a gate close to $1,650…Bert Prentice was backstage to see the Posse vs Boyce/Starr match…Setup for Tennessee Street Fight with Posse vs BOS on May 5, 2007...Grady Watson got hit with Bass’ guitar. “The Singing Cowboys” were formed with Brian Steele and Don Bass.
*JJ Fuller vs Danny Morris – Dustin Starr/Matt Boyce jumped both guys
*Chris Rocker/Chris O’Neal over “Blackout Squad” [Bishop/Oz] when Bishop used the skull for DQ.
*Don Bass beat Shannon Lee
*CWA Tag Team Title Match The Posse beat Dustin Starr/Matt Boyce – BOS and Hollywood Jimmy jumped them after the match – O’Neal/Rocker made the save..
*Battle Royal – End of it had O’Neal and Don Bass..The Posse jumped BOS in the battle royal and they brawled to the back.
----150 in attendance with a gate close to $1,650…Bert Prentice was backstage to see the Posse vs Boyce/Starr match…Setup for Tennessee Street Fight with Posse vs BOS on May 5, 2007...Grady Watson got hit with Bass’ guitar. “The Singing Cowboys” were formed with Brian Steele and Don Bass.
RassleResults: MEWA Batesville, AR 4.14.07
*“The Southern Submission Machine” Wild Bill over Eric Wayne by submission with a “A Southern Dream”
*Hillbilly Tiny over Kid Nickels with a “Boulder Roll”
*Scottie Graham and “The Brazilian Bad Boy” Rozzi over Righteous Punishment Jack “Lockdown” Johnson and “Byg Daddy” Moose with a “Spine Buster”
*Light Heavy Weight Title Match :“The Suicide King” Ray Ray over Johnny Harper with a “School Boy Roll-Up”
*Main Event: Non-Title Tag Team Match - Danger Zone “Dangerous” Dave Cox and “Hot Rod” John Ellison over with a “Russian Leg Sweep with a Super Kick” MEWA Tag Team Champions Casino Kid and “The Velvet Lover” Cody Thunder
A great crowd this week with 257 in the stands.
*Hillbilly Tiny over Kid Nickels with a “Boulder Roll”
*Scottie Graham and “The Brazilian Bad Boy” Rozzi over Righteous Punishment Jack “Lockdown” Johnson and “Byg Daddy” Moose with a “Spine Buster”
*Light Heavy Weight Title Match :“The Suicide King” Ray Ray over Johnny Harper with a “School Boy Roll-Up”
*Main Event: Non-Title Tag Team Match - Danger Zone “Dangerous” Dave Cox and “Hot Rod” John Ellison over with a “Russian Leg Sweep with a Super Kick” MEWA Tag Team Champions Casino Kid and “The Velvet Lover” Cody Thunder
A great crowd this week with 257 in the stands.
RassleBits: Leveigh, DVD Releases and Videos
----Larry Goodman had this to say about the opening match from NWA Wrestle Birmingham. Full report is posted on www.gerweck.net.
“(1) Anton Leveigh pinned Brandon Barbwire after the Border Destroyer. These were two talented, young guys from Mississippi that had worked out a nice match. They went a fast-paced 8-10 minutes with lots of hot moves. It would have fit in well on an NWA Anarchy show. WB fans have seen very little of this style, and they got into the technical quality of the wrestling. The Border Destroyer is a version of Petey Williams’ move. An unexpectedly strong opener.”
----Please get ready for a ton of releases coming out on DVD. I am working on TGB and Austin Lane right now. I have reached a deal with Kenny Valiant to do at least 3 Titles. There is a possible series of DVDs to do with Bill Dundee. And I also just reached a deal with NBW and I will produce a title of the show from Saturday night.
----Some videos at http://www.youtube.com/ that I thought the readers might find interesting.
**CLICK HERE for video with highlights clips from NBW Saturday night. Rikishi was left out for some reason.
**CLICK HERE and CLICK HERE - I am not sure what time period these two clips are from, but I am thinking the 70s. British wrestling is fought in rounds. The reason I want to pass these along, because if you are a young wrestler and want to see some very unique hold for hold stuff, please take a look at these guys.
“(1) Anton Leveigh pinned Brandon Barbwire after the Border Destroyer. These were two talented, young guys from Mississippi that had worked out a nice match. They went a fast-paced 8-10 minutes with lots of hot moves. It would have fit in well on an NWA Anarchy show. WB fans have seen very little of this style, and they got into the technical quality of the wrestling. The Border Destroyer is a version of Petey Williams’ move. An unexpectedly strong opener.”
----Please get ready for a ton of releases coming out on DVD. I am working on TGB and Austin Lane right now. I have reached a deal with Kenny Valiant to do at least 3 Titles. There is a possible series of DVDs to do with Bill Dundee. And I also just reached a deal with NBW and I will produce a title of the show from Saturday night.
----Some videos at http://www.youtube.com/ that I thought the readers might find interesting.
**CLICK HERE for video with highlights clips from NBW Saturday night. Rikishi was left out for some reason.
**CLICK HERE and CLICK HERE - I am not sure what time period these two clips are from, but I am thinking the 70s. British wrestling is fought in rounds. The reason I want to pass these along, because if you are a young wrestler and want to see some very unique hold for hold stuff, please take a look at these guys.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Arena Report: NBW Dyersburg, TN 4.14.07 - NBW PACKS 316 FANS INTO THE BUILDING!!
----The crew has grown and the dressing rooms are better since my last visit to New Blood Wrestling. It was their second show and they were just trying to establish things with their new booker Greg Anthony. Sir Mo shortly took over and TGB is now TLCW Champion. As I arrived at 6:45 PM for the 8:00 PM show, I was thinking to myself that I had arrived early, but as soon as I pulled on the parking lot I knew it was going to be a big crowd. The building was almost completely full when I arrived and the fans kept piling in. This show proved that if you put on a good show, then people in Dyersburg, TN are going to come out to see wrestling. I have written before that Dyersburg was dead, but it just needs a kick in the ass and some good entertaining wrestling. And, believe me, that was what I got to see at this show.
----The Sicilian Kid won a battle royal that featured I believe 8 guys. Most of them I knew from either seeing their pics or seeing them work, but a few were new and very green. Even though they were green as grass though, when their music hit and they came out – the crowd ate it up!! J Weezy, Slim “the Bulldog” Pickens and even the Kid got a pop coming out. Even though Kid won the bout, Tank was the star of the battle royal leading most of the young guys into being eliminated and calling the right stuff at the right time. Tank had been out for few weeks and the crowd was hot for him. Tank threw Kid thru the top and second rope, so he was not eliminated. After Tank eliminated Weezy, then he jumped over the top rope thinking he won, but then Kid got in. Crowd liked the finish and Weezy/Kid/Tank all shook hands at the end. [**1/2]
----Psycho beat Gunner Thompson and Tim Edwards in a triple threat elimination hardcore match. Crowd was hot for the match almost all the way. I think Gunner got juice first, then Psycho, but both juiced good. Gunner got a good pop coming out. Edwards got eliminated and leaving Gunner/Psycho to beat the hell out of each other. This was much like the Psycho/Krisis hardcore match in that they were giving and getting in the right spots and the crowd was eating up the stiff spots. Psycho took a couple of shots with a R&R sign that were just nasty. Crowd popped big! Psycho set up Gunner and put a HP Printer/Scanner [I donated it!!] in between Gunner’s leg and took off with a spinning shoulder smash. That broke the glass on the scanner and Psycho was bleeding from the arm. Crowd popped big for the spot with the crowd getting louder as Psycho got closer to the printer. I really can’t believe I am doing this, but a match involving Gunner/Edwards gets [***].
----“Team X” [Phoenix/Gryffon] beat Fire/Flame. Team X did a great double spot with each diving outside the ring from the top turnbuckle onto Fire/Flame. I really had a hard time telling Phoenix/Gryffon apart, but the crowd was hot as Fire/Flame got the heat. Hot tag got a pop and [I think] Phoenix pinned Flame. Good basis psychology match. Team X are just so small compared to Fire/Flame and some of their offense just did not look real. [**1/2]
----“Cruzin 4 Pain” [Motley Cruz/187] with Tasha Simone beat “East Coast Bad Boys” [C-Money/Serpent] in the best bout of the night. This is the best pure wrestling tag team bout I have seen this year. When these two teams come out it was apparent that they are something different. Both teams are dressed alike in great gear and know how to wrestle. They look like wrestlers and they wrestle. The crowd popped so big for ECBB. Rikishi was the only person to get a bigger pop. Too many moves for me to mention here, but it was not a spot feast without meaning. Every move meant something. My only complaint of the bout is that it felt like it lasted a bit too long as they lost the crowd building up to the finish. Hot tag to C-Money was good C4P ended up winning after finishing off C-Money. [****] Great match!!
----NBW Title Match: Flex beat by DQ Alan Steele. This was just your basic wrestling match and both guys worked real hard. During one point, Steele puked, but I didn’t even notice it. [He was trying to be like Big Steve] They just kept working. You could tell that Flex was not use to the going so long, but did a great job except for a few hold for hold spots in the beginning of the match. Memphis Wrestling is missing out on having Flex as a singles babyface. He would be so over. Steele is the best wrestler in this area. I have seen them all and he is a step above when it comes to just pure wrestling. He is missing SOMETHING and I am not sure what – a great gimmick maybe?? Steele used a chain that the ref seen for shitty finish, but a damn good match. [***]
----Rikishi/Jeremy Moore/Big Red beat by DQ “Ca$h Flow” [Mark Justice/Kilo/”Pretty Sexay” Gaylon Ray] with Big Money Gripp when Stumaga interfered. This was just your basic match with Kilo really shining in the ring with Rikishi. Lots of comedy in the front and the heels took over getting the heat on Moore. Moore and Ray were put in the perfect spots getting over with the good workers. Moore doesn’t even look like a wrestler, but has improved tons and the crowd loves him. Justice did an elbow drop from the top rope that looked great!! Hot tag to Kishi and crowd popped big!!! Stumaga [Tommy Boy] jumped Rikishi and he gave him the stink face. Crowd was nuts. Rikishi danced after the match. [**1/2]
RassleNotes: Crowd was 316 paid with a gate close to $3476...As the show got started people were still coming into the building. I would say close to 30 people stood for the whole 4 hour show…The Kid is horrible and so small. But the crowd popped for him…Weezy, Pickens, Ray, Team X and Jeremy Moore all need seasoning, but are over with the crowd and try really hard…Tank needs to get Tasha to make him some gear and he would look more like a wrestler…C-Money is the younger brother of Serpent and 187 and is going to be a good worker if he sticks with it. If he keeps on improving I can see his name in the “rookie of the year” balloting for this year…Simone looked to be suffering from a hurt knee, but looked in great shape. I am not sure if it was the tan, the suit or whatever, but she looked about 10 years younger…I have a hard time telling Fire/Flame apart on TV, but it is easy seeing them live. Fire was great on the mic, which is funny since we have never heard them talk on TV…It was great to see some old friends in the crowd – Big Dave, Auburn Thunder, Cane with his beautiful wife, all the new kids and tons more of the workers that I have not seen in a long time…RRO “Manager of the Year” Rashard was backstage…They took a very long intermission for Rikishi to do Polaroids. He sold easily 80 Polaroids at $5 a pop. He was super backstage to all the boys and stayed to autograph everything for the fans….For all the bs I give this promotion for pushing some of the younger guys and such, Mo has done a great job getting over the young talent and did an excellent job putting on a big event…Good time was had by all and a thank you to the NBW cast and crew for a great show.
----The Sicilian Kid won a battle royal that featured I believe 8 guys. Most of them I knew from either seeing their pics or seeing them work, but a few were new and very green. Even though they were green as grass though, when their music hit and they came out – the crowd ate it up!! J Weezy, Slim “the Bulldog” Pickens and even the Kid got a pop coming out. Even though Kid won the bout, Tank was the star of the battle royal leading most of the young guys into being eliminated and calling the right stuff at the right time. Tank had been out for few weeks and the crowd was hot for him. Tank threw Kid thru the top and second rope, so he was not eliminated. After Tank eliminated Weezy, then he jumped over the top rope thinking he won, but then Kid got in. Crowd liked the finish and Weezy/Kid/Tank all shook hands at the end. [**1/2]
----Psycho beat Gunner Thompson and Tim Edwards in a triple threat elimination hardcore match. Crowd was hot for the match almost all the way. I think Gunner got juice first, then Psycho, but both juiced good. Gunner got a good pop coming out. Edwards got eliminated and leaving Gunner/Psycho to beat the hell out of each other. This was much like the Psycho/Krisis hardcore match in that they were giving and getting in the right spots and the crowd was eating up the stiff spots. Psycho took a couple of shots with a R&R sign that were just nasty. Crowd popped big! Psycho set up Gunner and put a HP Printer/Scanner [I donated it!!] in between Gunner’s leg and took off with a spinning shoulder smash. That broke the glass on the scanner and Psycho was bleeding from the arm. Crowd popped big for the spot with the crowd getting louder as Psycho got closer to the printer. I really can’t believe I am doing this, but a match involving Gunner/Edwards gets [***].
----“Team X” [Phoenix/Gryffon] beat Fire/Flame. Team X did a great double spot with each diving outside the ring from the top turnbuckle onto Fire/Flame. I really had a hard time telling Phoenix/Gryffon apart, but the crowd was hot as Fire/Flame got the heat. Hot tag got a pop and [I think] Phoenix pinned Flame. Good basis psychology match. Team X are just so small compared to Fire/Flame and some of their offense just did not look real. [**1/2]
----“Cruzin 4 Pain” [Motley Cruz/187] with Tasha Simone beat “East Coast Bad Boys” [C-Money/Serpent] in the best bout of the night. This is the best pure wrestling tag team bout I have seen this year. When these two teams come out it was apparent that they are something different. Both teams are dressed alike in great gear and know how to wrestle. They look like wrestlers and they wrestle. The crowd popped so big for ECBB. Rikishi was the only person to get a bigger pop. Too many moves for me to mention here, but it was not a spot feast without meaning. Every move meant something. My only complaint of the bout is that it felt like it lasted a bit too long as they lost the crowd building up to the finish. Hot tag to C-Money was good C4P ended up winning after finishing off C-Money. [****] Great match!!
----NBW Title Match: Flex beat by DQ Alan Steele. This was just your basic wrestling match and both guys worked real hard. During one point, Steele puked, but I didn’t even notice it. [He was trying to be like Big Steve] They just kept working. You could tell that Flex was not use to the going so long, but did a great job except for a few hold for hold spots in the beginning of the match. Memphis Wrestling is missing out on having Flex as a singles babyface. He would be so over. Steele is the best wrestler in this area. I have seen them all and he is a step above when it comes to just pure wrestling. He is missing SOMETHING and I am not sure what – a great gimmick maybe?? Steele used a chain that the ref seen for shitty finish, but a damn good match. [***]
----Rikishi/Jeremy Moore/Big Red beat by DQ “Ca$h Flow” [Mark Justice/Kilo/”Pretty Sexay” Gaylon Ray] with Big Money Gripp when Stumaga interfered. This was just your basic match with Kilo really shining in the ring with Rikishi. Lots of comedy in the front and the heels took over getting the heat on Moore. Moore and Ray were put in the perfect spots getting over with the good workers. Moore doesn’t even look like a wrestler, but has improved tons and the crowd loves him. Justice did an elbow drop from the top rope that looked great!! Hot tag to Kishi and crowd popped big!!! Stumaga [Tommy Boy] jumped Rikishi and he gave him the stink face. Crowd was nuts. Rikishi danced after the match. [**1/2]
RassleNotes: Crowd was 316 paid with a gate close to $3476...As the show got started people were still coming into the building. I would say close to 30 people stood for the whole 4 hour show…The Kid is horrible and so small. But the crowd popped for him…Weezy, Pickens, Ray, Team X and Jeremy Moore all need seasoning, but are over with the crowd and try really hard…Tank needs to get Tasha to make him some gear and he would look more like a wrestler…C-Money is the younger brother of Serpent and 187 and is going to be a good worker if he sticks with it. If he keeps on improving I can see his name in the “rookie of the year” balloting for this year…Simone looked to be suffering from a hurt knee, but looked in great shape. I am not sure if it was the tan, the suit or whatever, but she looked about 10 years younger…I have a hard time telling Fire/Flame apart on TV, but it is easy seeing them live. Fire was great on the mic, which is funny since we have never heard them talk on TV…It was great to see some old friends in the crowd – Big Dave, Auburn Thunder, Cane with his beautiful wife, all the new kids and tons more of the workers that I have not seen in a long time…RRO “Manager of the Year” Rashard was backstage…They took a very long intermission for Rikishi to do Polaroids. He sold easily 80 Polaroids at $5 a pop. He was super backstage to all the boys and stayed to autograph everything for the fans….For all the bs I give this promotion for pushing some of the younger guys and such, Mo has done a great job getting over the young talent and did an excellent job putting on a big event…Good time was had by all and a thank you to the NBW cast and crew for a great show.
My Favorite Paul Wight Story
----Even though Brian Thompson did give us history of Memphis, TN and Paul Wight, he forgot to mention my favorite visit EVER of Paul Wight to Memphis.
From http://www.thesmokinggun.com/
“Paul Wight, the 500-pound wrestling star, was arrested in December 1998 by Memphis cops for allegedly exposing himself to a female motel employee. The criminal case, though, was subsequently dropped due to insufficient evidence. Wight--then billed as The Giant--was in town for a World Championship Wrestling (WCW) event.”
----The story that I was told at the time was that the female
employee ask Wight something like, “why do they call you the Giant” or something stupid like that. Since he is this huge monster of a man, then why would you not call him “the Giant” Wight proceeded to say, “this is why they call me the Giant” and pulled out his penis to show her. I am surprised Vince never billed his as “The Big Penis Man”. LOL Oh yea..btw...I also loved it when Wight was coming to the ring smoking!!! LOL The cigarette looked like a toothpick!!!
From http://www.thesmokinggun.com/
“Paul Wight, the 500-pound wrestling star, was arrested in December 1998 by Memphis cops for allegedly exposing himself to a female motel employee. The criminal case, though, was subsequently dropped due to insufficient evidence. Wight--then billed as The Giant--was in town for a World Championship Wrestling (WCW) event.”
----The story that I was told at the time was that the female
employee ask Wight something like, “why do they call you the Giant” or something stupid like that. Since he is this huge monster of a man, then why would you not call him “the Giant” Wight proceeded to say, “this is why they call me the Giant” and pulled out his penis to show her. I am surprised Vince never billed his as “The Big Penis Man”. LOL Oh yea..btw...I also loved it when Wight was coming to the ring smoking!!! LOL The cigarette looked like a toothpick!!!
RassleResults: Arkansas Championship Wrestling Paragould, AR 4.14.07
*Show open when sexy sam brings out the roll call of champs Hambones/Hamhock/Cannon. All did mic spills with Loose Cannon complaining about still not having his belt. Buster Johnson comes out and intros the new temp commish – Rottn Randy. Randy announces Cannon vs Treat for the Final rematch.
*Arnez with Kayte beat Shakedown with Sam Dollar
*ACW Tag Team Title Match – Hambones beat Adrian Stratton Banks/The Menace to retain the belts. Cannon checked Menace’s bag [looking for his belt] after the match and got one of those kid belts again.
*Next Division Title Match: The Enforcer beat Hamhock with Dollar to win the Title.
*ACW Title Match: San Francisco Treat beat Sam Dollar/Loose Cannon, but Cannon retains the belt. Before the bout, Rottn Randy gave two stips for the match – they had to have one hand tied behind their backs and SFT had to PIN Cannon to win the belt. SFT pinned Dollar.
*Main Event: No TL/No DQ – 8 Man Tag Match: Buster Johnson/Midnight Cowboys/Bryan Knight/The Enforcer beat “Labeled Social Deviants” [Deadly Dale/Idol Bane/Cody Daniels/Arnez]
----Crowd was 85 to 90 fans with a gate close to $560…I like the angle with Cannon trying to find his belt…I also like the way this promotion has been promoting “final” matches in feuds. It is easy for the fans to follow and let’s you know – no matter what – this feud is over…Randy had Cannon/Dollar doing everything during the whole show from sweeping out the ring to Cannon polishing Treat’s wrestling boots…I did not like the finish of the Title match because IMHO these finishes piss of fans and you get bad heat…Kelly Warner of LAW was backstage talking with Buster Johnson, Loose Cannon and Sam Dollar about coming into LAW in the future.
*Arnez with Kayte beat Shakedown with Sam Dollar
*ACW Tag Team Title Match – Hambones beat Adrian Stratton Banks/The Menace to retain the belts. Cannon checked Menace’s bag [looking for his belt] after the match and got one of those kid belts again.
*Next Division Title Match: The Enforcer beat Hamhock with Dollar to win the Title.
*ACW Title Match: San Francisco Treat beat Sam Dollar/Loose Cannon, but Cannon retains the belt. Before the bout, Rottn Randy gave two stips for the match – they had to have one hand tied behind their backs and SFT had to PIN Cannon to win the belt. SFT pinned Dollar.
*Main Event: No TL/No DQ – 8 Man Tag Match: Buster Johnson/Midnight Cowboys/Bryan Knight/The Enforcer beat “Labeled Social Deviants” [Deadly Dale/Idol Bane/Cody Daniels/Arnez]
----Crowd was 85 to 90 fans with a gate close to $560…I like the angle with Cannon trying to find his belt…I also like the way this promotion has been promoting “final” matches in feuds. It is easy for the fans to follow and let’s you know – no matter what – this feud is over…Randy had Cannon/Dollar doing everything during the whole show from sweeping out the ring to Cannon polishing Treat’s wrestling boots…I did not like the finish of the Title match because IMHO these finishes piss of fans and you get bad heat…Kelly Warner of LAW was backstage talking with Buster Johnson, Loose Cannon and Sam Dollar about coming into LAW in the future.
RassleResults: ASWF Tuckerman, AR 4.14.07
*Show started with Austin Lane and Princess Naychole doing interview challenging Jerry The King Lawler and demanding an answer next week. Aaron Polston came out and told Austin that he would have an ASWF Championship defense right now and brought out Matt Rivera.
*ASWF Title Match: Austin Lane defeated Matt Rivera after interference from Justin “The Juice” Smart.
*X Kaliber defeated Morgan Lane. Afterwards X Kaliber & Morgan Lane is attacked by Michael Myers(from Halloween movies).
*Justin “The Juice” Smart defeated Kid Krazzy after interference by Austin Lane. Matt Rivera made the save and challenged for tag match later.
*Michael Myers defeated X Kaliber. X Kaliber came out before the match and challenged the "Hollywood Monster."
*Kid Krazzy & Matt Rivera defeated Austin Lane & Justin “The Juice” Smart. Afterwards Aaron Polston offered the chance to face Jerry the King Lawler next month to the winner of a battle royal.
*Battle Royal: Austin Lane was the last in the ring but Tuckerman Fire Department firefighter Terry Adams slid into the ring and eliminated Austin. Austin Lane was furious and demanded a rematch for the shot against Lawler. Austin said he would give up anything! Terry Adams said he would find a partner for next week to take on Austin & Smart with Princess Naychole in a pen outside the ring. Plus with ten fans surrounding the ring with leather straps.
----Crowd was in the 100 to 150 range with a gate close to $600…I have talked to a few people that were at the Tuckerman debut last week and they had great things to say about the arena. The Valiant Arena was described as a mini TNA arena seating about 300 people. They have “state of the art” bleachers surrounding the ring. Every seat is a good seat.
*ASWF Title Match: Austin Lane defeated Matt Rivera after interference from Justin “The Juice” Smart.
*X Kaliber defeated Morgan Lane. Afterwards X Kaliber & Morgan Lane is attacked by Michael Myers(from Halloween movies).
*Justin “The Juice” Smart defeated Kid Krazzy after interference by Austin Lane. Matt Rivera made the save and challenged for tag match later.
*Michael Myers defeated X Kaliber. X Kaliber came out before the match and challenged the "Hollywood Monster."
*Kid Krazzy & Matt Rivera defeated Austin Lane & Justin “The Juice” Smart. Afterwards Aaron Polston offered the chance to face Jerry the King Lawler next month to the winner of a battle royal.
*Battle Royal: Austin Lane was the last in the ring but Tuckerman Fire Department firefighter Terry Adams slid into the ring and eliminated Austin. Austin Lane was furious and demanded a rematch for the shot against Lawler. Austin said he would give up anything! Terry Adams said he would find a partner for next week to take on Austin & Smart with Princess Naychole in a pen outside the ring. Plus with ten fans surrounding the ring with leather straps.
----Crowd was in the 100 to 150 range with a gate close to $600…I have talked to a few people that were at the Tuckerman debut last week and they had great things to say about the arena. The Valiant Arena was described as a mini TNA arena seating about 300 people. They have “state of the art” bleachers surrounding the ring. Every seat is a good seat.
Memphis Wrestling TV Report 4.14.07
Memphis Wrestling TV Report 4.14.07
----This show was taped in the studio with a big “Memphis Wrestling” sign being the backdrop in the TV studio ring with Corey Maclin and Jimmy Hart sitting the side of the ring. There was very little mention of Jerry Lawler except making note of the change of the match and small clip from the press conference. No in depth report this week as it was just clips of various things. Here is what was shown.
----Corey Maclin interviews Willie Hearton. Thanks to Willie. Hearton is ringing the bell at the Forum.
----FedEx Forum show commercial features only footage of press conference and XWF footage.
----Press Conference footage with other news pieces from Memphis TV.
----Platinum Ticket holders $60 get a "Meet and Greet" with all the legends. First 5,000 get $20 Sam's Town card. Even though I was surprised at the ticket prices, then is a good deal for the first 5,000 people. It was also a great idea from Maclin to get fans down to the “Sam’s Town” shows.
---- Other names that I don't think have been mention on my site to be on the show: Jimmy Vaiant, Buff Bagwell, Dutch Mantell and Kid Kash.
----Corey interviews Paul Wight.
----Greg Valentine vs Jimmy Snuka from Legends PPV.
----Abdullah The Butcher beating up Dutch Mantell -- PR footage from late 80’s during the time Jaggars/Mantell were teaming.
----Lance Russell interview via phone.
----Hulk Hogan interview with Hogan promoting the show and saying that Lawler turned his back on Memphis, TN and put his head between his legs and went back to Stanford, CT.
----Only other match announced: Triple Threat Ladies: Jazz vs Christie Ricci vs ?? They actually called her Christina Ricci. MY GOD!! GET HER NAME RIGHT!!!
----This show was taped in the studio with a big “Memphis Wrestling” sign being the backdrop in the TV studio ring with Corey Maclin and Jimmy Hart sitting the side of the ring. There was very little mention of Jerry Lawler except making note of the change of the match and small clip from the press conference. No in depth report this week as it was just clips of various things. Here is what was shown.
----Corey Maclin interviews Willie Hearton. Thanks to Willie. Hearton is ringing the bell at the Forum.
----FedEx Forum show commercial features only footage of press conference and XWF footage.
----Press Conference footage with other news pieces from Memphis TV.
----Platinum Ticket holders $60 get a "Meet and Greet" with all the legends. First 5,000 get $20 Sam's Town card. Even though I was surprised at the ticket prices, then is a good deal for the first 5,000 people. It was also a great idea from Maclin to get fans down to the “Sam’s Town” shows.
---- Other names that I don't think have been mention on my site to be on the show: Jimmy Vaiant, Buff Bagwell, Dutch Mantell and Kid Kash.
----Corey interviews Paul Wight.
----Greg Valentine vs Jimmy Snuka from Legends PPV.
----Abdullah The Butcher beating up Dutch Mantell -- PR footage from late 80’s during the time Jaggars/Mantell were teaming.
----Lance Russell interview via phone.
----Hulk Hogan interview with Hogan promoting the show and saying that Lawler turned his back on Memphis, TN and put his head between his legs and went back to Stanford, CT.
----Only other match announced: Triple Threat Ladies: Jazz vs Christie Ricci vs ?? They actually called her Christina Ricci. MY GOD!! GET HER NAME RIGHT!!!
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Guest Column: Brian Thompson Looks At Memphis Wrestling and the WWE
No matter how you analyze it, Memphis Wrestling grabbed national pro wrestling headlines all week long due to the upcoming "Clash of the Legends" event that will now feature a main event of Hulk Hogan vs. Paul Wight (the former WWE "Big Show"). While making the one-hour drive to my place of work, I have a lot of time to think about a lot of things. This situation has really grabbed my attention.
I won't rehash the story about the removal of Jerry "The King" Lawler from the event or the WWE's request to Corey Maclin that the show be cancelled completely. You can read that (cheap plug) right here at http://www.rasslinriotonline.com/. What I will do, however, is take a look back and a look ahead. I love the history of the wrestling business and this is just another piece of the Memphis Wrestling history puzzle. Here's a look back and a look ahead at the rocky relationship of Memphis promotions with the WWE during the last 10 years and some other ironic happenings.
- Feb. 14, 1999: Paul Wight makes his World Wrestling Federation debuting, interfering in the "Stone Cold" Steve Austin/Vince McMahon match at the St. Valentine's Day Massacre pay-per-view. This event was held at the Pyramid in Memphis with, I believe, a sold out crowd. Yours truly was in attendance and actually missed the final moments of the main event to wait outside the arena to get good seats for the next WWF Memphis event - a June 1999 Raw.
- Late 1999: Others who were more on the "inside" of this will have more details, but anyway here goes. Apparently Jerry Lawler and Randy Hales, promoter of Power Pro Wrestling have a falling out. Lawler ends up working with Terry Golden, promoter of Kick Ass Wrestling, to form Memphis Championship Wrestling. MCW has a developmental deal with the WWF, while PPW does not. PPW has a Saturday morning broadcast on WMC TV-5, while MCW airs on UPN-30.
- 2000: Sometime during the first year of the new millenium, MCW and PPW end up working together - although not merging under one universal banner. PPW regains its status as a WWE developmental territory. Future WWE stars work for PPW on TV again. PPW and MCW also retain their seperate TV shows, using the same talent.
- March 2001: Jerry Lawler leaves the WWE after his wife, Stacy "The Kat" Carter is released. Lawler is scheduled to appear on PPW TV following his WWE departure on a live Saturday morning telecast. Due to Lawler's planned appearance, WWE pulls its developmental deal from PPW - again. MCW remains a developmental territory. Talent on an MCW card in Corning, AR, are informed that if they appear on PPW's TV show the next morning, they will also no longer have a job. Yours truly is at the Corning show, working for MCW. Some of the developmental talent on the show included today's WWE stars Victoria, Umaga, Lance Cade, Brian Kendrick, among others who have either went on to WWE and have been released or were released later that year. Only a few weeks after losing its WWE developmental deal, PPW shuts down.
- July 2001: MCW loses its developmental deal and several talents are released. Those not released are moved to either Ohio Valley Wrestling or Heartland Wrestling Association.
- Spring 2002: Memphis Wrestling debuts on UPN-30. During much of the company's run, it has experienced good relations with the WWE.
As you can see, it has been a rocky road for Memphis in its relationship with WWE. However, I should note that this only shows how important the Mid-South has been and even continues to be for wrestling. This show, not counting his XWF show in 2001, will be Hogan's first non-WWE/WCW show in the United States.
So many questions will need to be answered. Here's a few.- Where does this leave Lawler and his status with Memphis Wrestling?- Will Hogan and Maclin begin working together on the rumored Hogan "legends wrestling promotion" project? - Will WWE attempt to put a developmental territory back in the Mid-South? Maybe using some other promotion or by starting a promotion? It happened before.- Will Maclin begin working with TNA?- Could VH1 be interested in doing something along the lines of wrestling? What about MTV after its failed project with WSX? Hogan could be the catalyst. So crazy!
Just some food for thought. Hope everyone enjoyed. One last thing to ponder . . . the Memphis-Hogan-Lawler-WWE chaos grabbed the wrestling world's attention during a week that should have been a TNA celebration week. Tomorrow night the company holds its second PPV outside Orlando since going to three hours in November 2004. It is in St. Louis, MO, a true wrestling capitol where "Wrestling at the Chase," dominated the airwaves. It is taking place in the home of the Major League Baseball World Champion St. Louis Cardinals. Should have been a lot of hype for that one, but not if Hogan, Memphis, WWE and company have anything to say about it.
I won't rehash the story about the removal of Jerry "The King" Lawler from the event or the WWE's request to Corey Maclin that the show be cancelled completely. You can read that (cheap plug) right here at http://www.rasslinriotonline.com/. What I will do, however, is take a look back and a look ahead. I love the history of the wrestling business and this is just another piece of the Memphis Wrestling history puzzle. Here's a look back and a look ahead at the rocky relationship of Memphis promotions with the WWE during the last 10 years and some other ironic happenings.
- Feb. 14, 1999: Paul Wight makes his World Wrestling Federation debuting, interfering in the "Stone Cold" Steve Austin/Vince McMahon match at the St. Valentine's Day Massacre pay-per-view. This event was held at the Pyramid in Memphis with, I believe, a sold out crowd. Yours truly was in attendance and actually missed the final moments of the main event to wait outside the arena to get good seats for the next WWF Memphis event - a June 1999 Raw.
- Late 1999: Others who were more on the "inside" of this will have more details, but anyway here goes. Apparently Jerry Lawler and Randy Hales, promoter of Power Pro Wrestling have a falling out. Lawler ends up working with Terry Golden, promoter of Kick Ass Wrestling, to form Memphis Championship Wrestling. MCW has a developmental deal with the WWF, while PPW does not. PPW has a Saturday morning broadcast on WMC TV-5, while MCW airs on UPN-30.
- 2000: Sometime during the first year of the new millenium, MCW and PPW end up working together - although not merging under one universal banner. PPW regains its status as a WWE developmental territory. Future WWE stars work for PPW on TV again. PPW and MCW also retain their seperate TV shows, using the same talent.
- March 2001: Jerry Lawler leaves the WWE after his wife, Stacy "The Kat" Carter is released. Lawler is scheduled to appear on PPW TV following his WWE departure on a live Saturday morning telecast. Due to Lawler's planned appearance, WWE pulls its developmental deal from PPW - again. MCW remains a developmental territory. Talent on an MCW card in Corning, AR, are informed that if they appear on PPW's TV show the next morning, they will also no longer have a job. Yours truly is at the Corning show, working for MCW. Some of the developmental talent on the show included today's WWE stars Victoria, Umaga, Lance Cade, Brian Kendrick, among others who have either went on to WWE and have been released or were released later that year. Only a few weeks after losing its WWE developmental deal, PPW shuts down.
- July 2001: MCW loses its developmental deal and several talents are released. Those not released are moved to either Ohio Valley Wrestling or Heartland Wrestling Association.
- Spring 2002: Memphis Wrestling debuts on UPN-30. During much of the company's run, it has experienced good relations with the WWE.
As you can see, it has been a rocky road for Memphis in its relationship with WWE. However, I should note that this only shows how important the Mid-South has been and even continues to be for wrestling. This show, not counting his XWF show in 2001, will be Hogan's first non-WWE/WCW show in the United States.
So many questions will need to be answered. Here's a few.- Where does this leave Lawler and his status with Memphis Wrestling?- Will Hogan and Maclin begin working together on the rumored Hogan "legends wrestling promotion" project? - Will WWE attempt to put a developmental territory back in the Mid-South? Maybe using some other promotion or by starting a promotion? It happened before.- Will Maclin begin working with TNA?- Could VH1 be interested in doing something along the lines of wrestling? What about MTV after its failed project with WSX? Hogan could be the catalyst. So crazy!
Just some food for thought. Hope everyone enjoyed. One last thing to ponder . . . the Memphis-Hogan-Lawler-WWE chaos grabbed the wrestling world's attention during a week that should have been a TNA celebration week. Tomorrow night the company holds its second PPV outside Orlando since going to three hours in November 2004. It is in St. Louis, MO, a true wrestling capitol where "Wrestling at the Chase," dominated the airwaves. It is taking place in the home of the Major League Baseball World Champion St. Louis Cardinals. Should have been a lot of hype for that one, but not if Hogan, Memphis, WWE and company have anything to say about it.
The Ratings Are In!!
----This week’s show was a bit below the average, but still a strong show in the sense that not a lot of people turned off the show. Even though you see three of the four quarters scoring 2.6, there is slight difference in the count of viewers due to me rounding off the numbers. I hope everyone enjoys the new format, as it gives a little bit more info.
Overall – 2.6 - 42,812 viewers
[Derrick King interview opened the show. DK talked about the “mask” that keeps haunting him. DK visited a magic shop and the owner told him to watch his back. Derrick King vs Johnny Dotson ended in No Contest. Tatt2 tried to interfere to help Dotson, but it backfired. Flash Flanagan then came out running off DK…“Hollywood” Jimmy Blaylock with Fire/Flame/Chucky. Jimmy said that Chucky will be in the corner of Kamala this Friday night. Then Corey Maclin announced that Boogeyman will have Little Boogey at ringside with him.]
1st Quarter – 2.6 – 43,148 viewers
[“New Nature Boy” Kevin White by DQ over Dustin Starr. A real good TV bout, but with a crappy finish. White was getting the heat on Starr and started using a chain, so Lord Humongous II made the save for him. Here is the problem – no build up except for Maclin saying Bill Dundee would reveal his mystery partner today and then Huey showing up. Just a couple of weeks ago, Huey was with the “Hollywood Clique” and now no turn or explanation…Another piece with Jazz/Maclin at the home of Jazz. Grady Watson joins them. Watson talks about not being able to control The Moondogs. Jazz attacks Watson trying to rip his shirt. This was horrible. Jazz does a good promo after the angle.…Video is shown of Corey Maclin and Jimmy Hart. They are on the roof of Hulk Hogan’s house waiting on him. Maclin promises Hogan later on the program. Hart then calls in and talks to Maclin. ]
2cnd Quarter – 2.6 – 44,323 viewers [+1175] - Best Quarter
[Jerry Lawler video interview from his home surrounded by Superman memorabilia. Lawler talks about Hogan should not worry about who is going to be the most popular, because he will be since they are in Memphis. Lawler puts over the fact that they felt the Mid-South Coliseum would not hold all the people for the event, so they are now using the Fed-Ex Forum. ----Hulk Hogan video interview aired next with Corey Maclin. Hogan puts over the point on whether Jimmy Hart is going to be in his corner or Lawler’s corner. Something weird about the video as it looked like Maclin/Hogan were transposed in the scenery]
3rd Quarter – 2.4 - 39,958 viewers [-4365] - Worst Quarter
[Shelton/Hass video interview aired next. Same one as last week’s show…Grind/Flex squash “Blackout Squad” [Oz/Bishop] in quick bout. “Too Cool” got a huge babyface reaction from the fans even though they are heels. And, aren’t the BOS heels here?? Grind/Flex used a combo driver/stunner finish, which looked awesome!!!...Koko Ware interview as The Grizz comes out to a pop. Grizz whispers something in Maclin’s ear and Maclin then announces he is the special ref for the match Friday night…They announced Hulk Hogan will be live in the studio next week…“Insane Clown” with Rashard come out. Clowns vs Cujo in a handicap match. Clowns have water and food for Cujo. Cujo gets down and looks at the food. He then hikes his leg up like he pees in it. Then the Clowns jump him with silly string. God!! I wished I was making all that up!!! Show goes off before the finish of the match as Cujo was making his comeback.]
4th Quarter – 2.6 - 43,987 viewers [+4029]
12 week average – 3.0 - 49,528 viewers
12 week High – 4.1 – 67,583 viewers - 1.27.07
12 Week Low – 2.2 – 36,936 viewers - 2.03.07
Growth from start to finish: +839
**This report is shown on www.gerweck.net and www.prowrestlingpress.com.
Overall – 2.6 - 42,812 viewers
[Derrick King interview opened the show. DK talked about the “mask” that keeps haunting him. DK visited a magic shop and the owner told him to watch his back. Derrick King vs Johnny Dotson ended in No Contest. Tatt2 tried to interfere to help Dotson, but it backfired. Flash Flanagan then came out running off DK…“Hollywood” Jimmy Blaylock with Fire/Flame/Chucky. Jimmy said that Chucky will be in the corner of Kamala this Friday night. Then Corey Maclin announced that Boogeyman will have Little Boogey at ringside with him.]
1st Quarter – 2.6 – 43,148 viewers
[“New Nature Boy” Kevin White by DQ over Dustin Starr. A real good TV bout, but with a crappy finish. White was getting the heat on Starr and started using a chain, so Lord Humongous II made the save for him. Here is the problem – no build up except for Maclin saying Bill Dundee would reveal his mystery partner today and then Huey showing up. Just a couple of weeks ago, Huey was with the “Hollywood Clique” and now no turn or explanation…Another piece with Jazz/Maclin at the home of Jazz. Grady Watson joins them. Watson talks about not being able to control The Moondogs. Jazz attacks Watson trying to rip his shirt. This was horrible. Jazz does a good promo after the angle.…Video is shown of Corey Maclin and Jimmy Hart. They are on the roof of Hulk Hogan’s house waiting on him. Maclin promises Hogan later on the program. Hart then calls in and talks to Maclin. ]
2cnd Quarter – 2.6 – 44,323 viewers [+1175] - Best Quarter
[Jerry Lawler video interview from his home surrounded by Superman memorabilia. Lawler talks about Hogan should not worry about who is going to be the most popular, because he will be since they are in Memphis. Lawler puts over the fact that they felt the Mid-South Coliseum would not hold all the people for the event, so they are now using the Fed-Ex Forum. ----Hulk Hogan video interview aired next with Corey Maclin. Hogan puts over the point on whether Jimmy Hart is going to be in his corner or Lawler’s corner. Something weird about the video as it looked like Maclin/Hogan were transposed in the scenery]
3rd Quarter – 2.4 - 39,958 viewers [-4365] - Worst Quarter
[Shelton/Hass video interview aired next. Same one as last week’s show…Grind/Flex squash “Blackout Squad” [Oz/Bishop] in quick bout. “Too Cool” got a huge babyface reaction from the fans even though they are heels. And, aren’t the BOS heels here?? Grind/Flex used a combo driver/stunner finish, which looked awesome!!!...Koko Ware interview as The Grizz comes out to a pop. Grizz whispers something in Maclin’s ear and Maclin then announces he is the special ref for the match Friday night…They announced Hulk Hogan will be live in the studio next week…“Insane Clown” with Rashard come out. Clowns vs Cujo in a handicap match. Clowns have water and food for Cujo. Cujo gets down and looks at the food. He then hikes his leg up like he pees in it. Then the Clowns jump him with silly string. God!! I wished I was making all that up!!! Show goes off before the finish of the match as Cujo was making his comeback.]
4th Quarter – 2.6 - 43,987 viewers [+4029]
12 week average – 3.0 - 49,528 viewers
12 week High – 4.1 – 67,583 viewers - 1.27.07
12 Week Low – 2.2 – 36,936 viewers - 2.03.07
Growth from start to finish: +839
**This report is shown on www.gerweck.net and www.prowrestlingpress.com.
RassleReview: Memphis Wrestling Ratings - 1st Quarter 2007
Memphis Wrestling – 1st Quarter of 2007
----I had written about the downfall of Memphis Wrestling being the move from the morning slot to the night time slot. I actually considered that the “story of the year”. But, as the year ended, the show continued to surprise me with good ratings. The show finished with overall yearly average of 4.2 which is close to 70,000 fans watching Memphis Wrestling on a weekly basis. The show was averaging a 3.8 [63,798 viewers] in the night time slot and it looked as if the change was not affecting them.
----Well, with the combo of airing horrible wrestling shows and the move to night time, the ratings have started to fall. The program had the worst overall rating average and worst overall people viewing of the show in the first quarter of 2007 than anytime during 2006. The show scored an average of 48,578 viewers with a 2.9 rating. So, they have dropped on a weekly basis 15,220 fans from the past quarter [4th quarter 2006]. Last year the first quarter of the year, the program scored a whopping 5.1 [85,623 viewers], which is losing 37,046 viewers from last year.
----If you do not include the big first quarter of last year in the study and just look at the constant of around 3.8 [63,798 viewers] for rest of the year, then you are still seeing a 24% decrease in viewers. If that happens for rest of the year and we see another 24% decrease in the next three months, then the show could be doing a 2.2 rating, which would be in the danger zone for this promotion. We may also see it level off for the next three quarters and do just the norm of the 2.9.
More Facts
*Best Quarter 4.8 [80,400 viewers] 1st Quarter 1.27.07
*Worst Quarter 1.4 [22,472] 1st Quarter 2.03.07
Quarter with highest rating overall: 4th Quarter
Quarter with lowest ratings overall: 1st Quarter
Best Rated Show Overall – 4.1 [67,583 viewers]– 1.27.07
Worst Rated Show Overall – 2.1 [34,597 viewers] -1.06.07
----I had written about the downfall of Memphis Wrestling being the move from the morning slot to the night time slot. I actually considered that the “story of the year”. But, as the year ended, the show continued to surprise me with good ratings. The show finished with overall yearly average of 4.2 which is close to 70,000 fans watching Memphis Wrestling on a weekly basis. The show was averaging a 3.8 [63,798 viewers] in the night time slot and it looked as if the change was not affecting them.
----Well, with the combo of airing horrible wrestling shows and the move to night time, the ratings have started to fall. The program had the worst overall rating average and worst overall people viewing of the show in the first quarter of 2007 than anytime during 2006. The show scored an average of 48,578 viewers with a 2.9 rating. So, they have dropped on a weekly basis 15,220 fans from the past quarter [4th quarter 2006]. Last year the first quarter of the year, the program scored a whopping 5.1 [85,623 viewers], which is losing 37,046 viewers from last year.
----If you do not include the big first quarter of last year in the study and just look at the constant of around 3.8 [63,798 viewers] for rest of the year, then you are still seeing a 24% decrease in viewers. If that happens for rest of the year and we see another 24% decrease in the next three months, then the show could be doing a 2.2 rating, which would be in the danger zone for this promotion. We may also see it level off for the next three quarters and do just the norm of the 2.9.
More Facts
*Best Quarter 4.8 [80,400 viewers] 1st Quarter 1.27.07
*Worst Quarter 1.4 [22,472] 1st Quarter 2.03.07
Quarter with highest rating overall: 4th Quarter
Quarter with lowest ratings overall: 1st Quarter
Best Rated Show Overall – 4.1 [67,583 viewers]– 1.27.07
Worst Rated Show Overall – 2.1 [34,597 viewers] -1.06.07
RassleResults: Memphis Wrestling "Sam's Town" Tunica, MS 4.13.07
“The Posse” [Lil Chris/Simon] beat “Naughty By Nature” [Rude/Pokerface] with Rashard
Jimmy Hart called out Corey Maclin to announce changes
Tatt2 by DQ Dustin Starr – Dotson jumped Tatt2
Chucky with Blaylock beat Sawed Off – Chucky took off his mask and revealed Hollywood the Midget and said he would challenge any midget.
Little Boogeyman beat Hollywood
Flash Flanagan beat Derrick King for JR Title – Fantasio/Spellbinder was on stage
Sir Mo by roll up Humongous II with Hollywood Jimmy
“The Moondogs” [Cujo/Fifi] with Grady Watson vs Rodney Mack/Jazz – No Contest
Bill Dundee/Kishi [Rikishi] beat Kevin White/Mr. Hughes
“The Moondogs” [Cujo/Spike] with Richard Lee squashed “Too Cool 2” [Tim Grind/Flex] for the Southern tag team titles.
Koko Ware vs The Grizz – Special ref Corey Maclin – Grizz by DQ – pull apart with Koko/Corey again!!
----$9600 gate with around 400 in the building. A third of the crowd missing from the last show. This time without Lawler. Gate puts them 2cnd behind their last show in gates of the year though…Chris got busted open. I really hope they use “Naughty By Nature” instead of that stupid clown gimmick!!!...Dustin Starr vs Tatt2 was face vs face match with Starr working more heel with Starr leaving Tatt2…Mo blew up. Why was Huey with Hollywood?? Damn!! Follow the storylines!!…Lots of DK playing around at front of match. Match was not as good as expected. Fantasio/Spellbinder looked great!! DK was looking at him on the stage and Flash pinned him…Watson was trying to control Moondogs and Moondog Spike with Richard Lee [who is so big he looks like a Moondog] came out to help and the Moondogs turned on Grady Watson…White got the stinkface and Dundee hit with DDT and then Kishi sit on him for the pin. Kishi got over big time – crowd went nuts when Dundee called him out and it was a fun match…”Too Cool 2” got squashed because they were told 7 minutes, but The Moondogs spent 6 minutes to get into the ring and then squashed them Lee said after the match that some people thought they had lost a “brother” meant the Moondogs were gone, but the Moondogs were still alive…I was told Koko was getting stiff with The Grizz. Koko was challenging Maclin for a “Negro Street Fight” for the FedEx Forum. NO!!! NO!!!...Kimala was in the building at the start of the show, but ended up leaving before even getting dressed. Maybe he heard that you work this show Vince will not use you for anything…I was told that Kishi/Dundee vs White/Hughes and Moondogs vs Mack/Jazz got the biggest reactions of the night. It seems that from a worker’s standpoint this was not a great show, but was a good show for the fans.
Jimmy Hart called out Corey Maclin to announce changes
Tatt2 by DQ Dustin Starr – Dotson jumped Tatt2
Chucky with Blaylock beat Sawed Off – Chucky took off his mask and revealed Hollywood the Midget and said he would challenge any midget.
Little Boogeyman beat Hollywood
Flash Flanagan beat Derrick King for JR Title – Fantasio/Spellbinder was on stage
Sir Mo by roll up Humongous II with Hollywood Jimmy
“The Moondogs” [Cujo/Fifi] with Grady Watson vs Rodney Mack/Jazz – No Contest
Bill Dundee/Kishi [Rikishi] beat Kevin White/Mr. Hughes
“The Moondogs” [Cujo/Spike] with Richard Lee squashed “Too Cool 2” [Tim Grind/Flex] for the Southern tag team titles.
Koko Ware vs The Grizz – Special ref Corey Maclin – Grizz by DQ – pull apart with Koko/Corey again!!
----$9600 gate with around 400 in the building. A third of the crowd missing from the last show. This time without Lawler. Gate puts them 2cnd behind their last show in gates of the year though…Chris got busted open. I really hope they use “Naughty By Nature” instead of that stupid clown gimmick!!!...Dustin Starr vs Tatt2 was face vs face match with Starr working more heel with Starr leaving Tatt2…Mo blew up. Why was Huey with Hollywood?? Damn!! Follow the storylines!!…Lots of DK playing around at front of match. Match was not as good as expected. Fantasio/Spellbinder looked great!! DK was looking at him on the stage and Flash pinned him…Watson was trying to control Moondogs and Moondog Spike with Richard Lee [who is so big he looks like a Moondog] came out to help and the Moondogs turned on Grady Watson…White got the stinkface and Dundee hit with DDT and then Kishi sit on him for the pin. Kishi got over big time – crowd went nuts when Dundee called him out and it was a fun match…”Too Cool 2” got squashed because they were told 7 minutes, but The Moondogs spent 6 minutes to get into the ring and then squashed them Lee said after the match that some people thought they had lost a “brother” meant the Moondogs were gone, but the Moondogs were still alive…I was told Koko was getting stiff with The Grizz. Koko was challenging Maclin for a “Negro Street Fight” for the FedEx Forum. NO!!! NO!!!...Kimala was in the building at the start of the show, but ended up leaving before even getting dressed. Maybe he heard that you work this show Vince will not use you for anything…I was told that Kishi/Dundee vs White/Hughes and Moondogs vs Mack/Jazz got the biggest reactions of the night. It seems that from a worker’s standpoint this was not a great show, but was a good show for the fans.
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