Post by Deleted on Nov 13, 2013 19:38:47 GMT -5
I am adding short dark matches as a test of format for this week. This is being done for the new year as Saturday Night is being dropped starting in 2014 / 1994 as I really see no point in continuing it and I will want to work people into matches weekly that might not otherwise get the chance, so just trying to get a good format / presentation down for them. The results are meaningless to the big picture, just intended for the live audience like any dark match.
Dark match: U.S. champion Ice Train defeated Brad Armstrong via pinfall after a scoop powerslam. This was a non-title match. Before the match, Armstrong ran down the fans, bringing out Train to defeat him quickly, as in the 30 seconds to a minute range. Big pop for that, and afterward after some recovery time, Armstrong grabbed a mic to get some heat by saying that Train jumped him before he was ready and exclaim that even in defeat, he is still better than all the fans here in Ashville. All this done during lighting tests.
Live from The Civic Center
November 11, 1993
8:00 pm eastern
Ashville, North Carolina
Tony Schiavone: WCW Monday Nitro is on the air! Coming to you live on TNT from Ashville, North Carolina, the best in professional wrestling over the next 2 hours is set to come into your living room. Hello wrestling fans, I'm Tony Schiavone alongside The Living Legend Larry Zbyszko, and tonight Legend, what a show we have in store for the fans. Later on tonight, Cactus Jack to take on Yoshi Kwan in a No Holds Barred match, the King of Cable tournament continues, but perhaps above all else, Sting is here tonight and he has a lot to get off his chest.
Larry Zbyszko: Black Scorpion, the bell tolls for thee. In just 2.5 weeks at the next Clash of Champions, the match has been signed. Sting and Cactus Jack against Big Van Vader and The Scorpion, and you have to think that after what we've seen over the last couple weeks out here, Sting will be going into that match with a purpose. He wants to know who's been attacking him and that mask could be coming off. Tonight though, it'll be interesting to hear what he has to say. It's not only The Scorpion, but also all this talk of Hulk Hogan. J.J. Dillon had better be sure he's listening loud and clear.
Tony Schiavone: In addition to that, the Computer Contenders Challenge continues tonight. Which champion will it be? J.J. Dillon set to join us just a moment to make that announcement. Last week of course, a huge match with Ravishing Rick Rude retaining the World title over The Natural Dustin Rhodes.
Larry Zbyszko: And what a match it was. Who will it be tonight? We heard Sting asking for Big Van Vader in a rematch a couple weeks ago, could the computer grant that wish tonight? Anything's possible.
Tony Schiavone: Anything is. Also here tonight is The Nature Boy Ric Flair, as is The Lone Wolf Barry Windham. The challenge made a week ago for an I Quit match at the Clash of Champions, Windham not accepting over the weekend. He wants more. We'll see if he gets it tonight.
Fans boo as out comes WCW commissioner J.J. Dillon to join them.
Tony Schiavone: Joining us now though, and you hear these fans. Not the biggest fans of you as of late out here, commissioner J.J. Dillon.
J.J. Dillon: And maybe I deserve it. Hopefully what I have to say right now changes some of that. First of all, the situation with Ric Flair and Barry Windham. He wants more right? Well I'm going to give them both more. If Mr. Windham agrees to the match, the winner will be deemed the #1 contender to whichever man walks out of the Steel Cage match with the World Title between current champion Rick Rude and challenger Roddy Piper.
Larry Zbyszko: Wait a minute though. What about the title shot for Johnny B. Badd?
J.J. Dillon: It's like I said a week ago, Mr B. Badd will get his shot. But last week, you can't just go out there and take on a top competitor like Sting, lose, and expect to get things handed to you. He'll get a shot, and it will be on the Monday Nitro following the Clash of Champions. That's Monday night December 2, Johnny B. Badd against either Rowdy Roddy Piper or Ravishing Rick Rude, whoever wins in the cage. And then the winner of that will take on the winner of Ric Flair and Barry Windham in the I Quit match, should Windham accept.
Tony Schiavone: A lot of possibilities there.
J.J. Dillon: There are. Of course should Windham accept and win, Flair quits and we will never see him wrestle again here in WCW. On the historic 10th anniversary of that first Starrcade, an event where Flair defeated Harley Race for the World title after appearing to have had to retire only weeks earlier. History repeats itself guys, and the question here would be, which part of history could we see repeated? Moving on from that though, tonight. Let's talk tonight. The Computer Contenders Challenge continues and after much speculation I can now announce that the championship to be defended will be the WCW Tag Team Title held by 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell. It was just 2 weeks ago that they won the title for the first time, and now they could find themselves without a-
Fans boo as out to interrupt is Scotty Flamingo.
Larry Zbyszko: What smells out here? Oh.
Scotty Flamingo: Hardy har har Larry. The only thing that smells out here is the stale stench of your career, so step aside because I have business to attend to. My team of Beautiful Bobby and Charismatic Chris, nickname pending approval, they have a rematch clause whereby they get a rematch at those belts. I don't care if the computer spit out The Road Warriors, Harlem Heat, The Nasty Boys, The Hollywood Blonds, because they want their rematch at Scorpio and Bagwell. That's the team that beat them, that's the team they should face. I consider this whole concept a complete and utter joke. This isn't Star Trek J.J., it's WCW. There's no room for computers making decisions in wrestling. I mean just imagine it if it did, that computer could 1 day make your job completely worthless J.J. Imagine it, a computer virtually booking matches. Next thing you know, you'll figure out a way to combine this all with live and interactive where fans sit at home, booking matches on their computers. It's pathetic J.J., you're pathetic.
J.J. Dillon: Can I finish?
Scotty Flamingo: Go ahead then. Tell me whatever second rate, undeserving team gets that shot. Whoever it is, they should have that shot stripped from them and given away to the real top contenders.
J.J. Dillon: As I was saying it was 2 weeks ago that 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell won the titles and tonight they could find themselves former champions as the team that the computer drew to challenge them was ... Beautiful Bobby Eaton and Chris Benoit. But you know, as you were saying, maybe they should have the shot taken from them and-
Scotty Flamingo: No, no. As I was saying J.J., this is a great idea. Having computers pick matches is the way to go and the future of this industry. This is like WCW merged with Star Trek, 2 great things brought together at long last. This is what the fans want to see, nay, what they deserve to see! I say well done good sir. Well done.
Larry Zbyszko: Please.
Tony Schiavone: Alright, well after the series of matches they have had, expect the unexpected in their match tonight because this time, it's on no preparation. 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell defending the titles against Bobby Eaton and Chris Benoit tonight. Right now though, let's send it up to David Penzer for tonight's opening match.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
vs 
Big opportunity for both of these men in tonight's opener to pick up a big win on the WCW flagship program. For The Z Man, this comes only 2 days after slugging Brad Armstrong on Saturday Night, following 2 tainted wins by Armstrong and then a request by him for Zenk to join him. He refused and Armstrong tried a cheapshot, but Zenk was too quick on the draw. For Jean Paul Levesque, this match gives him a golden opportunity to pick up a win ahead of his King of Cable tournament match this weekend on Saturday Night against Johnny B. Badd. The match has a hot start with the fans into it, Zenk in control for much of it. Levesque does get his chance to shine though, working on the arm of Zenk for a brief period. Zenk gets in the babyface comeback, but before that, out comes Armstrong to boos from the packed house. Maybe more than would be expected to the TV viewer at home, but his dark match appearance set the stage for it. Zenk tells the referee to get rid of him, but Armstrong only argues and gets up to the apron. Zenk goes after him, but Armstrong hops down before he can reach him. This gives Levesque recovery time and when Zenk turns, he eats a kick to the gut. Levesque hooks him up and connects with a double underhook facebuster and the 3 count for the win. Some revenge for Armstrong from Saturday Night over the weekend, and probably not the last we will see of the former partners. Levesque heads into his King of Cable match with Badd this coming weekend on a winning note, the wins coming more frequently since his return under Lord Steven Regal at Fall Brawl.
-- First commercial break --
Tony Schiavone: Welcome back to WCW Monday Nitro, live on TNT. Still to come tonight, Cactus Jack and Yoshi Kwan No Holds Barred, but as we just learned before the break, it will be 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell defending the Tag Team Title against former champions Bobby Eaton and Chris Benoit in the Computer Contenders Challenge. Not only that, but J.J. Dillon laying it down. Ric Flair and Barry Windham, I Quit match, winner gets a World Title shot, assuming of course Windham accepts.
Larry Zbyszko: And why wouldn't he at this stage? In 1 match, he can accomplish more than some wrestlers do in a lifetime. Drive Ric Flair to quit WCW, and earn himself a World Title shot. He could be on top of WCW by the new year while his current arch rival is nowhere to be found.
Tony Schiavone: Indeed he could very well be. A lot of variables in that equation with that big Steel Cage match as well. Right ow we want to bring in somebody with a tie in to all of this ...
... that of course being the once Horseman in training, Shane Douglas. Want to start by asking on the status of your relationship with Ric Flair, now that Arn Anderson has been indefinitely suspended.
Shane Douglas: Don't worry about me and Ric Flair, or me and Arn Anderson. What people should be thinking about is the future of Shane Douglas, the future of WCW! See this past weekend, I had my shot at the King of Cable tournament against Lord Steven Regal, only for Jean Paul Levesque to come out and cost me that match. Losing by countout. That's all fine and good for them, but it didn't sit too well with me. King of Cable would've been nice, but I'm setting my sights on something else. That something being Regal's TV title.
Larry Zbyszko: I know better than anybody out here what those 2 stand for and I wish you all the best in your quest. I have to ask though, how are you going to balance the fact that there's 2 of them, only 1 of you.
Shane Douglas: I'm going to start at the bottom and work my way up. That means I'm starting with you Levesque. You come from France with your aristocratic attitude like you're better than everybody out here. I have news for him though, there isn't a single frenchman alive that's better than all these people here in the good old U.S. of A. And then once he's out of the way, I'm getting that title away from Regal. And that's just the beginning! From the prospective Horseman, to the future of WCW. I will not be denied!
Tony Schiavone: Ok, and that's Shane Douglas. You can look for him in action this coming Saturday on TBS at 6:05 eastern. Right now though, let's head back up to the ring as WCW Monday Nitro continues, right here on TNT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
vs 
Weeks of losing brought The Hollywood Blonds to the brink of breakup with a 1 on 1 match last week. Just when it seemed all hope was lost for them, out came Col. Robert Parker, seemingly abandoned in WCW when the wrestler he managed was indefinitely suspended 2 weeks ago. Parker convinced the Blonds that their failures were due to a lack of management keeping the 2 egos in check and got a second chance for the team and himself here in WCW. Starting at the bottom of the ranks, their opponents tonight are a team that has defeated them not once, but twice in the last couple of months on Nitro. The Cole Twins have become the upset kings of WCW, but at this point, would defeating The Blonds even be an upset? Certainly not early on when the bell rings as nothing seems to have changed. Steve Austin and Brian Pillman spend the match in argument and trying to show each other up, leading to The Coles taking the early advantage. The Colonel settles things down and The Blonds start to recuperate, even showing some teamwork. The finish comes with a heated series of exchanges, but Austin legal is able to catch Keith Cole coming off the ropes and lift him up, giving him the Stun Gun across the top rope and covering for the 3 count. Larry Zbyszko exclaims that hell has froze over with The Blonds finally back in the win column in WCW, while Tony Schiavone gives the background of the first win for them on Nitro since August 5, over 3 months ago. Parker gives early results and The Blonds show signs of a second life, hoping to continue that in a move back up the ranks.
-- Second commercial break --
Tony Schiavone: We are back here on WCW Monday Nitro, live on TNT. Before the break, you saw it. The Hollywood Blonds are back Legend, and back with a win.
Larry Zbyszko: This could be the start of something big for them. I'm sure you remember the days of them against Ric Flair and Arn Anderson, they were all over this show. Now I don't exactly long for those days, but if this pairing with Col. Robert Parker is a success, it's not out of the realm of possibility. This team could not only be WCW Tag Team champions again if they get their focus back, but maybe even more.
Tony Schiavone: And speaking about champions ...
... we are joined by the WCW United States champion, the Ice Train. It was just a week ago that you were the victim of a double team from Tex Slazenger and an unknown wrestler. 2 on 1, can you handle it?
Ice Train: Look here Mr. Schiavone. I didn't get to be the U.S. champion the easy way, see. I didn't even get to the WCW no easy way either. I had to work my way into the company, and then work my way through some of the biggest names in the Strongest Arm tournament. Not only did I win, but I then went on to win this. And ever since that day, I've beat all comers. So Tex Slazenger, you wanted a piece of me? You just had to ask. But if you want to bring this other guy to the dance with you, the more the merrier. I'll take you both on if I have to, but be assured that nobody does that to the Ice Train.
Tony Schiavone: Also wanted to ask about this Computer Contenders Challenge. Last week it was Ravishing Rick Rude, this week 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell. Are you ready to answer the call next week if it's you?
Ice Train: I'm always ready! You know when I was a kid, we didn't have them computers back in my hood.
Larry Zbyszko: It's 1993 Ice Train. I don't think when any of us were kids we had computers.
Ice Train: That might be true Mr. Zbyszko, but what I'm getting at is that I'm not big on technology. I don't really understand what this whole thing's about. I'm the Ice Train. That's pure locomotive power. These muscles here, they get me through matches the old fashion way. Power and speed. I don't care who that computer picks, I'll beat anybody in the back. Anybody! I'm undefeated and I intend to stay that way. CHOO! CHOO!
Tony Schiavone: Ok, and you hear it from the fans out here, Ice Train! Could we see him defend the U.S. title next week in the Computer Contenders Challenge? We'll see. Right now it's back up to the ring as the action continues here tonight on WCW Monday Nitro.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
vs 
Since introducing the iron claw into his repertoire, a move helped made famous by his father Blackjack Mulligan, The Lone Wolf Barry Windham has seemed unstoppable in recent weeks. Interesting opponent tonight, announced as "Fabulous Lance", known formerly as Lance Von Erich, cousin to the famed Von Erich family and masters of the iron claw (announced as formerly following a jump from World Class Championship Wrestling to Wild West Wrestling in 1987 that led to an upset Fritz Von Erich exposing his true non relationship and preventing him from using the trademarked surname, but of course none of that is mentioned here, just the reasoning behind it). Fabulous Lance seems to be pushing gimmick infringement here as he is out with a snake for some reason, maybe looking at getting noticed to turn this into a permanent position. He gets in some offense here, although for the most part it is pretty obvious that he was just brought in solely to his previous associations and their association to the iron claw. Windham blasts the not so Fabulous Lance with a lariat and then locks in the iron claw. Another victory with the hold and now the commentators say, Windham has a choice to make following J.J. Dillon's announcement. Ric Flair's challenge to a rematch denied, then the stakes raised to an I Quit match where Flair will literally quit WCW, and now earlier the winner becoming #1 contender to the World Title. Windham looks into the camera and says that he accepts and he will see Flair Thanksgiving night at the Clash of Champions. The commentators make mention that Flair will be out here earlier and now that the match is made, hopefully get his comments on putting his WCW career on the line.
-- Third commercial break --
Tony Schiavone: We are back and just about set to go to the ring for our main event here in hour #1, Road Warrior Animal to battle Booker T from Harlem Heat. We all know the recent history between those 2 tag teams, and as heard on the weekend over on TBS and Saturday Night, they will look to finish their rivalry on Thanksgiving night at the Clash of the Champions. A little preview of that here tonight.
Larry Zbyszko: And you know that there's no love lost in this. When you try and take a man out of action for good, take away his living, take away his will to live, like Harlem Heat did to Animal, you really put yourself in a difficult position when you don't finish the job. They aren't the first and I'm sure they won't be the last to make that mistake, but they'll find out the hard way that you don't mess with The Road Warriors.
Tony Schiavone: But before that, we want to bring in a couple of guests right now ...
... speaking of course about the WCW champion Big Van Vader and his manager Harley Race. Still to come tonight, it's Cactus Jack against your other man Yoshi Kwan, No Holds Barred match, but we just heard from Ice Train about the Computer Contenders Challenge. Wanted to get your thoughts on that.
Harley Race: My thoughts are that computers have no place in wrestling! There were no computers when I wrestled and won the World title countless times gentlemen. They're unnecessary as far as I'm concerned, and the last thing they should do is be picking opponents for this man. Back in my time, computers and sport stopped at man vs machine in chess-
Larry Zbyszko: The game of computer chess. What your man could be playing next week.
Harley Race: This man'll play whatever chess he wants! He'll take the board, flip it over, and smash it to pieces, do you understand that? He'll take that computer, lift it up, and powerbomb it straight to hell! There is nobody in the back that can defeat this man. He has proven it time and again. Whether it was Sting at Halloween Havoc or anybody else that's made the mistake of getting his way. And as for Cactus Jack, he wants to be the WCW champion? Let me reiterate for all of you. Cactus Jack is not, I repeat, not championship material if you know what I mean.
Tony Schiavone: Not sure I do.
Harley Race: Then maybe Vader can clarify it for you.
Big Van Vader: Cactus Jack! WCW and your super computer! You want to pick my opponent? Pick the man, to meet his doom against me? Noooooo. No. You bring me 1, you bring them ALL! I'll beat, any man. I'll destroy, any challenger. Nobody can stop Vader. NOBODY! I am, WCW, chammmmmpion haha. You want this belt? Come try to take it. You fail, you ALL FAIL! It's not your time, it's my time. Vader time! Believe it.
Tony Schiavone: And that we do. Big Van Vader and Harley Race, who will be back later when his man Yoshi Kwan battles Cactus Jack. Right now though, back up to the ring for more action. WCW Monday Nitro rolls on, here on TNT!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
vs 
The main event for hour #1 sees a preview of the Clash of Champions in 2.5 weeks time. It was roughly 3 months ago that Harlem Heat tried to take out Road Warrior Animal, putting him on the shelf for several weeks. While taken out of the War Games match, their mission ultimately failed as he would return and The Road Warriors would come back stronger than ever. The 2 tag teams have since fought several times without definitive conclusion, leading to the match being signed for the Clash. Tonight though, it's 1 on 1. A chance for some personal revenge for Animal, and he is out first to a big pop from the fans here in Ashville. Booker T is out next and the match follows, after a commercial break.
-- Fourth commercial break --
WCW Saturday Night Preview for November 16
- Shane Douglas is in action
- Tex Slazenger is in action
- Johnny B. Badd vs Jean Paul Levesque in a King of Cable tournament match
- All that and more, this Saturday at 6:05 eastern on TBS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Back from break and Booker T is in ring, music playing from his introduction. Upon the bell ringing, he decides to start out with a break. A rare tactic as he stalls by going outside the ring, perhaps to throw Animal off his game. Heading back inside, the match gets started and Animal has early control over Booker. Ducking a clothesline though, Booker quickly readjusts and as Animal turns, blasts him with a scissors kick to the head to put him down. Booker starts feeling the crowd and goes down to 1 knee! But being this is 1993, he immediately continues to 2 knees and starts punching away at Animal and trying to wear him down on the mat. Several 2 counts follow. Animal briefly regains the advantage, but Booker is able to get out of the way as he charges into the corner and continues on the offense. Booker then heads up to the top rope. He dives off with a legdrop, but Animal manages to get out of the way in time. As the 2 wrestlers get up, Animal starts going on the offensive and is able to catch Booker coming off the ropes with a scoop powerslam. Animal hooks the leg and grabs the 3, but little time to celebrate because Stevie Ray is quickly in. He downs Animal and kicks away, eventually joined by Booker. It is not long before this bring Hawk racing out from the back. Harlem Heat duck out as Hawk swings for the fences trying to get at them. Animal may be the winner of the match, but Harlem Heat also get some for themselves. Larry Zbyszko says that it has been a while before he seen 2 tag teams with this much hatred for each other, and when they collide at the Clash of Champions, they had better reenforce the place because they are liable to bring it down.
-- Fifth commercial break --
Dark match: U.S. champion Ice Train defeated Brad Armstrong via pinfall after a scoop powerslam. This was a non-title match. Before the match, Armstrong ran down the fans, bringing out Train to defeat him quickly, as in the 30 seconds to a minute range. Big pop for that, and afterward after some recovery time, Armstrong grabbed a mic to get some heat by saying that Train jumped him before he was ready and exclaim that even in defeat, he is still better than all the fans here in Ashville. All this done during lighting tests.
Live from The Civic Center
November 11, 1993
8:00 pm eastern
Ashville, North Carolina
From ringside ...
Tony Schiavone: WCW Monday Nitro is on the air! Coming to you live on TNT from Ashville, North Carolina, the best in professional wrestling over the next 2 hours is set to come into your living room. Hello wrestling fans, I'm Tony Schiavone alongside The Living Legend Larry Zbyszko, and tonight Legend, what a show we have in store for the fans. Later on tonight, Cactus Jack to take on Yoshi Kwan in a No Holds Barred match, the King of Cable tournament continues, but perhaps above all else, Sting is here tonight and he has a lot to get off his chest.
Larry Zbyszko: Black Scorpion, the bell tolls for thee. In just 2.5 weeks at the next Clash of Champions, the match has been signed. Sting and Cactus Jack against Big Van Vader and The Scorpion, and you have to think that after what we've seen over the last couple weeks out here, Sting will be going into that match with a purpose. He wants to know who's been attacking him and that mask could be coming off. Tonight though, it'll be interesting to hear what he has to say. It's not only The Scorpion, but also all this talk of Hulk Hogan. J.J. Dillon had better be sure he's listening loud and clear.
Tony Schiavone: In addition to that, the Computer Contenders Challenge continues tonight. Which champion will it be? J.J. Dillon set to join us just a moment to make that announcement. Last week of course, a huge match with Ravishing Rick Rude retaining the World title over The Natural Dustin Rhodes.
Larry Zbyszko: And what a match it was. Who will it be tonight? We heard Sting asking for Big Van Vader in a rematch a couple weeks ago, could the computer grant that wish tonight? Anything's possible.
Tony Schiavone: Anything is. Also here tonight is The Nature Boy Ric Flair, as is The Lone Wolf Barry Windham. The challenge made a week ago for an I Quit match at the Clash of Champions, Windham not accepting over the weekend. He wants more. We'll see if he gets it tonight.
Fans boo as out comes WCW commissioner J.J. Dillon to join them.
Tony Schiavone: Joining us now though, and you hear these fans. Not the biggest fans of you as of late out here, commissioner J.J. Dillon.
J.J. Dillon: And maybe I deserve it. Hopefully what I have to say right now changes some of that. First of all, the situation with Ric Flair and Barry Windham. He wants more right? Well I'm going to give them both more. If Mr. Windham agrees to the match, the winner will be deemed the #1 contender to whichever man walks out of the Steel Cage match with the World Title between current champion Rick Rude and challenger Roddy Piper.
Larry Zbyszko: Wait a minute though. What about the title shot for Johnny B. Badd?
J.J. Dillon: It's like I said a week ago, Mr B. Badd will get his shot. But last week, you can't just go out there and take on a top competitor like Sting, lose, and expect to get things handed to you. He'll get a shot, and it will be on the Monday Nitro following the Clash of Champions. That's Monday night December 2, Johnny B. Badd against either Rowdy Roddy Piper or Ravishing Rick Rude, whoever wins in the cage. And then the winner of that will take on the winner of Ric Flair and Barry Windham in the I Quit match, should Windham accept.
Tony Schiavone: A lot of possibilities there.
J.J. Dillon: There are. Of course should Windham accept and win, Flair quits and we will never see him wrestle again here in WCW. On the historic 10th anniversary of that first Starrcade, an event where Flair defeated Harley Race for the World title after appearing to have had to retire only weeks earlier. History repeats itself guys, and the question here would be, which part of history could we see repeated? Moving on from that though, tonight. Let's talk tonight. The Computer Contenders Challenge continues and after much speculation I can now announce that the championship to be defended will be the WCW Tag Team Title held by 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell. It was just 2 weeks ago that they won the title for the first time, and now they could find themselves without a-
Fans boo as out to interrupt is Scotty Flamingo.
Larry Zbyszko: What smells out here? Oh.
Scotty Flamingo: Hardy har har Larry. The only thing that smells out here is the stale stench of your career, so step aside because I have business to attend to. My team of Beautiful Bobby and Charismatic Chris, nickname pending approval, they have a rematch clause whereby they get a rematch at those belts. I don't care if the computer spit out The Road Warriors, Harlem Heat, The Nasty Boys, The Hollywood Blonds, because they want their rematch at Scorpio and Bagwell. That's the team that beat them, that's the team they should face. I consider this whole concept a complete and utter joke. This isn't Star Trek J.J., it's WCW. There's no room for computers making decisions in wrestling. I mean just imagine it if it did, that computer could 1 day make your job completely worthless J.J. Imagine it, a computer virtually booking matches. Next thing you know, you'll figure out a way to combine this all with live and interactive where fans sit at home, booking matches on their computers. It's pathetic J.J., you're pathetic.
J.J. Dillon: Can I finish?
Scotty Flamingo: Go ahead then. Tell me whatever second rate, undeserving team gets that shot. Whoever it is, they should have that shot stripped from them and given away to the real top contenders.
J.J. Dillon: As I was saying it was 2 weeks ago that 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell won the titles and tonight they could find themselves former champions as the team that the computer drew to challenge them was ... Beautiful Bobby Eaton and Chris Benoit. But you know, as you were saying, maybe they should have the shot taken from them and-
Scotty Flamingo: No, no. As I was saying J.J., this is a great idea. Having computers pick matches is the way to go and the future of this industry. This is like WCW merged with Star Trek, 2 great things brought together at long last. This is what the fans want to see, nay, what they deserve to see! I say well done good sir. Well done.
Larry Zbyszko: Please.
Tony Schiavone: Alright, well after the series of matches they have had, expect the unexpected in their match tonight because this time, it's on no preparation. 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell defending the titles against Bobby Eaton and Chris Benoit tonight. Right now though, let's send it up to David Penzer for tonight's opening match.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
vs Big opportunity for both of these men in tonight's opener to pick up a big win on the WCW flagship program. For The Z Man, this comes only 2 days after slugging Brad Armstrong on Saturday Night, following 2 tainted wins by Armstrong and then a request by him for Zenk to join him. He refused and Armstrong tried a cheapshot, but Zenk was too quick on the draw. For Jean Paul Levesque, this match gives him a golden opportunity to pick up a win ahead of his King of Cable tournament match this weekend on Saturday Night against Johnny B. Badd. The match has a hot start with the fans into it, Zenk in control for much of it. Levesque does get his chance to shine though, working on the arm of Zenk for a brief period. Zenk gets in the babyface comeback, but before that, out comes Armstrong to boos from the packed house. Maybe more than would be expected to the TV viewer at home, but his dark match appearance set the stage for it. Zenk tells the referee to get rid of him, but Armstrong only argues and gets up to the apron. Zenk goes after him, but Armstrong hops down before he can reach him. This gives Levesque recovery time and when Zenk turns, he eats a kick to the gut. Levesque hooks him up and connects with a double underhook facebuster and the 3 count for the win. Some revenge for Armstrong from Saturday Night over the weekend, and probably not the last we will see of the former partners. Levesque heads into his King of Cable match with Badd this coming weekend on a winning note, the wins coming more frequently since his return under Lord Steven Regal at Fall Brawl.
-- First commercial break --
Tony Schiavone: Welcome back to WCW Monday Nitro, live on TNT. Still to come tonight, Cactus Jack and Yoshi Kwan No Holds Barred, but as we just learned before the break, it will be 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell defending the Tag Team Title against former champions Bobby Eaton and Chris Benoit in the Computer Contenders Challenge. Not only that, but J.J. Dillon laying it down. Ric Flair and Barry Windham, I Quit match, winner gets a World Title shot, assuming of course Windham accepts.
Larry Zbyszko: And why wouldn't he at this stage? In 1 match, he can accomplish more than some wrestlers do in a lifetime. Drive Ric Flair to quit WCW, and earn himself a World Title shot. He could be on top of WCW by the new year while his current arch rival is nowhere to be found.
Tony Schiavone: Indeed he could very well be. A lot of variables in that equation with that big Steel Cage match as well. Right ow we want to bring in somebody with a tie in to all of this ...
... that of course being the once Horseman in training, Shane Douglas. Want to start by asking on the status of your relationship with Ric Flair, now that Arn Anderson has been indefinitely suspended.
Shane Douglas: Don't worry about me and Ric Flair, or me and Arn Anderson. What people should be thinking about is the future of Shane Douglas, the future of WCW! See this past weekend, I had my shot at the King of Cable tournament against Lord Steven Regal, only for Jean Paul Levesque to come out and cost me that match. Losing by countout. That's all fine and good for them, but it didn't sit too well with me. King of Cable would've been nice, but I'm setting my sights on something else. That something being Regal's TV title.
Larry Zbyszko: I know better than anybody out here what those 2 stand for and I wish you all the best in your quest. I have to ask though, how are you going to balance the fact that there's 2 of them, only 1 of you.
Shane Douglas: I'm going to start at the bottom and work my way up. That means I'm starting with you Levesque. You come from France with your aristocratic attitude like you're better than everybody out here. I have news for him though, there isn't a single frenchman alive that's better than all these people here in the good old U.S. of A. And then once he's out of the way, I'm getting that title away from Regal. And that's just the beginning! From the prospective Horseman, to the future of WCW. I will not be denied!
Tony Schiavone: Ok, and that's Shane Douglas. You can look for him in action this coming Saturday on TBS at 6:05 eastern. Right now though, let's head back up to the ring as WCW Monday Nitro continues, right here on TNT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
vs Weeks of losing brought The Hollywood Blonds to the brink of breakup with a 1 on 1 match last week. Just when it seemed all hope was lost for them, out came Col. Robert Parker, seemingly abandoned in WCW when the wrestler he managed was indefinitely suspended 2 weeks ago. Parker convinced the Blonds that their failures were due to a lack of management keeping the 2 egos in check and got a second chance for the team and himself here in WCW. Starting at the bottom of the ranks, their opponents tonight are a team that has defeated them not once, but twice in the last couple of months on Nitro. The Cole Twins have become the upset kings of WCW, but at this point, would defeating The Blonds even be an upset? Certainly not early on when the bell rings as nothing seems to have changed. Steve Austin and Brian Pillman spend the match in argument and trying to show each other up, leading to The Coles taking the early advantage. The Colonel settles things down and The Blonds start to recuperate, even showing some teamwork. The finish comes with a heated series of exchanges, but Austin legal is able to catch Keith Cole coming off the ropes and lift him up, giving him the Stun Gun across the top rope and covering for the 3 count. Larry Zbyszko exclaims that hell has froze over with The Blonds finally back in the win column in WCW, while Tony Schiavone gives the background of the first win for them on Nitro since August 5, over 3 months ago. Parker gives early results and The Blonds show signs of a second life, hoping to continue that in a move back up the ranks.
-- Second commercial break --
Tony Schiavone: We are back here on WCW Monday Nitro, live on TNT. Before the break, you saw it. The Hollywood Blonds are back Legend, and back with a win.
Larry Zbyszko: This could be the start of something big for them. I'm sure you remember the days of them against Ric Flair and Arn Anderson, they were all over this show. Now I don't exactly long for those days, but if this pairing with Col. Robert Parker is a success, it's not out of the realm of possibility. This team could not only be WCW Tag Team champions again if they get their focus back, but maybe even more.
Tony Schiavone: And speaking about champions ...
... we are joined by the WCW United States champion, the Ice Train. It was just a week ago that you were the victim of a double team from Tex Slazenger and an unknown wrestler. 2 on 1, can you handle it?
Ice Train: Look here Mr. Schiavone. I didn't get to be the U.S. champion the easy way, see. I didn't even get to the WCW no easy way either. I had to work my way into the company, and then work my way through some of the biggest names in the Strongest Arm tournament. Not only did I win, but I then went on to win this. And ever since that day, I've beat all comers. So Tex Slazenger, you wanted a piece of me? You just had to ask. But if you want to bring this other guy to the dance with you, the more the merrier. I'll take you both on if I have to, but be assured that nobody does that to the Ice Train.
Tony Schiavone: Also wanted to ask about this Computer Contenders Challenge. Last week it was Ravishing Rick Rude, this week 2 Cold Scorpio and Marcus Alexander Bagwell. Are you ready to answer the call next week if it's you?
Ice Train: I'm always ready! You know when I was a kid, we didn't have them computers back in my hood.
Larry Zbyszko: It's 1993 Ice Train. I don't think when any of us were kids we had computers.
Ice Train: That might be true Mr. Zbyszko, but what I'm getting at is that I'm not big on technology. I don't really understand what this whole thing's about. I'm the Ice Train. That's pure locomotive power. These muscles here, they get me through matches the old fashion way. Power and speed. I don't care who that computer picks, I'll beat anybody in the back. Anybody! I'm undefeated and I intend to stay that way. CHOO! CHOO!
Tony Schiavone: Ok, and you hear it from the fans out here, Ice Train! Could we see him defend the U.S. title next week in the Computer Contenders Challenge? We'll see. Right now it's back up to the ring as the action continues here tonight on WCW Monday Nitro.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
vs Since introducing the iron claw into his repertoire, a move helped made famous by his father Blackjack Mulligan, The Lone Wolf Barry Windham has seemed unstoppable in recent weeks. Interesting opponent tonight, announced as "Fabulous Lance", known formerly as Lance Von Erich, cousin to the famed Von Erich family and masters of the iron claw (announced as formerly following a jump from World Class Championship Wrestling to Wild West Wrestling in 1987 that led to an upset Fritz Von Erich exposing his true non relationship and preventing him from using the trademarked surname, but of course none of that is mentioned here, just the reasoning behind it). Fabulous Lance seems to be pushing gimmick infringement here as he is out with a snake for some reason, maybe looking at getting noticed to turn this into a permanent position. He gets in some offense here, although for the most part it is pretty obvious that he was just brought in solely to his previous associations and their association to the iron claw. Windham blasts the not so Fabulous Lance with a lariat and then locks in the iron claw. Another victory with the hold and now the commentators say, Windham has a choice to make following J.J. Dillon's announcement. Ric Flair's challenge to a rematch denied, then the stakes raised to an I Quit match where Flair will literally quit WCW, and now earlier the winner becoming #1 contender to the World Title. Windham looks into the camera and says that he accepts and he will see Flair Thanksgiving night at the Clash of Champions. The commentators make mention that Flair will be out here earlier and now that the match is made, hopefully get his comments on putting his WCW career on the line.
-- Third commercial break --
Tony Schiavone: We are back and just about set to go to the ring for our main event here in hour #1, Road Warrior Animal to battle Booker T from Harlem Heat. We all know the recent history between those 2 tag teams, and as heard on the weekend over on TBS and Saturday Night, they will look to finish their rivalry on Thanksgiving night at the Clash of the Champions. A little preview of that here tonight.
Larry Zbyszko: And you know that there's no love lost in this. When you try and take a man out of action for good, take away his living, take away his will to live, like Harlem Heat did to Animal, you really put yourself in a difficult position when you don't finish the job. They aren't the first and I'm sure they won't be the last to make that mistake, but they'll find out the hard way that you don't mess with The Road Warriors.
Tony Schiavone: But before that, we want to bring in a couple of guests right now ...
... speaking of course about the WCW champion Big Van Vader and his manager Harley Race. Still to come tonight, it's Cactus Jack against your other man Yoshi Kwan, No Holds Barred match, but we just heard from Ice Train about the Computer Contenders Challenge. Wanted to get your thoughts on that.
Harley Race: My thoughts are that computers have no place in wrestling! There were no computers when I wrestled and won the World title countless times gentlemen. They're unnecessary as far as I'm concerned, and the last thing they should do is be picking opponents for this man. Back in my time, computers and sport stopped at man vs machine in chess-
Larry Zbyszko: The game of computer chess. What your man could be playing next week.
Harley Race: This man'll play whatever chess he wants! He'll take the board, flip it over, and smash it to pieces, do you understand that? He'll take that computer, lift it up, and powerbomb it straight to hell! There is nobody in the back that can defeat this man. He has proven it time and again. Whether it was Sting at Halloween Havoc or anybody else that's made the mistake of getting his way. And as for Cactus Jack, he wants to be the WCW champion? Let me reiterate for all of you. Cactus Jack is not, I repeat, not championship material if you know what I mean.
Tony Schiavone: Not sure I do.
Harley Race: Then maybe Vader can clarify it for you.
Big Van Vader: Cactus Jack! WCW and your super computer! You want to pick my opponent? Pick the man, to meet his doom against me? Noooooo. No. You bring me 1, you bring them ALL! I'll beat, any man. I'll destroy, any challenger. Nobody can stop Vader. NOBODY! I am, WCW, chammmmmpion haha. You want this belt? Come try to take it. You fail, you ALL FAIL! It's not your time, it's my time. Vader time! Believe it.
Tony Schiavone: And that we do. Big Van Vader and Harley Race, who will be back later when his man Yoshi Kwan battles Cactus Jack. Right now though, back up to the ring for more action. WCW Monday Nitro rolls on, here on TNT!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
vs The main event for hour #1 sees a preview of the Clash of Champions in 2.5 weeks time. It was roughly 3 months ago that Harlem Heat tried to take out Road Warrior Animal, putting him on the shelf for several weeks. While taken out of the War Games match, their mission ultimately failed as he would return and The Road Warriors would come back stronger than ever. The 2 tag teams have since fought several times without definitive conclusion, leading to the match being signed for the Clash. Tonight though, it's 1 on 1. A chance for some personal revenge for Animal, and he is out first to a big pop from the fans here in Ashville. Booker T is out next and the match follows, after a commercial break.
-- Fourth commercial break --
WCW Saturday Night Preview for November 16
- Shane Douglas is in action
- Tex Slazenger is in action
- Johnny B. Badd vs Jean Paul Levesque in a King of Cable tournament match
- All that and more, this Saturday at 6:05 eastern on TBS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Back from break and Booker T is in ring, music playing from his introduction. Upon the bell ringing, he decides to start out with a break. A rare tactic as he stalls by going outside the ring, perhaps to throw Animal off his game. Heading back inside, the match gets started and Animal has early control over Booker. Ducking a clothesline though, Booker quickly readjusts and as Animal turns, blasts him with a scissors kick to the head to put him down. Booker starts feeling the crowd and goes down to 1 knee! But being this is 1993, he immediately continues to 2 knees and starts punching away at Animal and trying to wear him down on the mat. Several 2 counts follow. Animal briefly regains the advantage, but Booker is able to get out of the way as he charges into the corner and continues on the offense. Booker then heads up to the top rope. He dives off with a legdrop, but Animal manages to get out of the way in time. As the 2 wrestlers get up, Animal starts going on the offensive and is able to catch Booker coming off the ropes with a scoop powerslam. Animal hooks the leg and grabs the 3, but little time to celebrate because Stevie Ray is quickly in. He downs Animal and kicks away, eventually joined by Booker. It is not long before this bring Hawk racing out from the back. Harlem Heat duck out as Hawk swings for the fences trying to get at them. Animal may be the winner of the match, but Harlem Heat also get some for themselves. Larry Zbyszko says that it has been a while before he seen 2 tag teams with this much hatred for each other, and when they collide at the Clash of Champions, they had better reenforce the place because they are liable to bring it down.
-- Fifth commercial break --
vs 
vs 
vs 