[Open with an excerpt from the Armed Forces' interview from Wednesday night. NavCom and DefCon are all business as they stare at the camera:] NC: High Plains Drifters. Easy, Pale. On August 24th, we stepped into the ring with you, and took the tag team championships away. On October 12th, we met again in the ring... and we pinned you a second time. Don't expect much else on Saturday Night. DC: Rising Sun Revolution! You have done nothing but taunt the lion, and you'll feel the power of its roar and attack. When you took the titles from us, it was a shot in the arm for me. I'm that lion. And after we beat the tar out of the Drifters, we're coming for two things. To end your lucky streak, and slip into those belts as the two-time champions. [Cut to a montage of IIWF action accompanied by hard rock music. The final chord lingers as Lord Byron clotheslines the Masked Marauder. Suddenly, the screen explodes into a mass of fire and smoke, through which emerges the IIWF's familiar logo:] ##### ###### ### ########## ########## ########## #### ## ########## ########## ########## #### # #### ######## ##### ##### #### ## ##### #### #### #### #### ### #### #### #### #### ############# ######### #### #### ########### ######### #### #### #### #### #### ######### ######### ### #### #### ######### ######### ### ## #### ######## ######## ## # #### =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ## =-=-=-= INTERNATIONAL INTERNET WRESTLING FEDERATION ================================================= "COUNTDOWN TO SATURDAY NIGHT" - November 29, 1996 ================================================= [Cut to the IIWF Studio. The remote camera zooms down the aisle as members of the studio audience scream and wave. A man with a black eye proudly displays his "Steve Kowalski Kicked My Butt" t-shirt. An old woman screams at the camera and slaps on her El Super Gecko souvenir mask. A nearly-bald man with wisps of stringy blond hair, and a four-foot Puerto Rican beside him proudly display their "N.W.O." t-shirts. Zoom to Larry Morton, who is wearing a Pilgrim costume, and Becky LaRue sitting at the broadcast desk.] LM: Hello again, everyone, and welcome to "Countdown to Saturday Night." I'm your host Larry Morton, and beside me is my broadcast partner Becky LaRue. It's a new night for us, but we're ready to roll. BL: Larry... why the hell are you dressed like a Pilgrim? LM: The boss thought it would be a good idea since yesterday was Thanksgiving and... hey, didn't YOU get the memo? BL: Do you _really_ think I read memos? Besides, do you really think anyone would mistake me for a Puritan? LM: You didn't even show up at the IIWF Cafeteria for the Thanksgiving Day feast! We had pressed turkey roll with all the trimmings. And those darned Alphabet Boys kept moving my bowl of stuffing and my bowl of cranberry sauce. BL: Gee, I didn't think anyone had a regular bowl movement on Thanksgiving Day. LM: Are you QUITE finished with the bathroom humor? BL: Not even close. I kept hearing "High Roller" John McClain yelling "craps!" And then... LM: That's enough! Let's just get on with the show. As you heard at the top of tonight's show, The Armed Forces have another shot at the IIWF Tag Team belts if they can get by another former champion, The High Plains Drifters tomorrow night. With a title shot on the line, what a match that will be! We'll hear more from the Forces later on. BL: Hehe, that little hat covers your pointed head perfectly. LM: Cut it out! We have some serious business to discuss tonight in addition to that big tag team matchup. BL: Like, why didn't Pilgrims put zippers on their pants? LM: NO! I'm talking about Hakiro Matsuoko and the Syndicate. Every indication from last weekend seemed to point toward Matsuoko making amends with Brian Lau and Tiger Claw. Not only did Tiger Claw help him avoid possibly losing the title to the White Phoenix, but Claw actually helped Hakiro from ringside. BL: Which made us believe that Matsuoko had finally come to his senses and returned to the Syndicate. LM: Well, we may have been premature in believing that. BL: Hehe. Premature. THERE's a word you know something about. LM: [ignoring her] Well, Hakiro has asked for a few moments tonight to address these allegations. We take you now LIVE via satellite to Japan for those comments: [Cut to a shot of Hakiro Matsuoko is in the rock garden at his Tokyo dojo. He is sitting under a tree, much like the Buddha sat under years ago. Hakiro is still bruised from his match. He does not seem to be in pain, just meditation.] HM: Shinja Chow, I applaud your efforts. You fought valiantly. I have been contacted by many fans since Saturday night. They all ask the same question, "Hakiro, are you back with the Syndicate?" And they all get the same answer, "No." I am not sure what Brian Lau is trying to do. Our relationship is well-documented -- as is mine with Tiger Claw. Just before the match Saturday, I learned that Rising Sun Revolution would not be in my corner. So, I talked to the only other person I thought I could trust, Gecko. He agreed. He has no loyalty to the powers that be, so he was the perfect choice. I had no idea that Tiger Claw took his place. And I am still in the dark as to why Tiger Claw carried me away. Billy Shakespeare, you seem to be focusing all your anger on me. Why? Do you still harbor ill will toward me for what happened weeks ago? I told you, you made your choice and I have made mine. I fight for myself and my clan. That is it. You speak of a match in the future? I welcome it. Your memory is short, Billy. Do you forget the feud you had with Tiger Claw? I know Claw. He covets that IC title. Do you not think that this whole situation with me is just to divert the attention from the real foe? It is Brian and Claw you should worry about. My business with the Syndicate is done. I am my own man now. Shakespeare, know your enemy. [Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: Hakiro Matusoko pleads his innocence, but I'm not convinced. BL: I'm sure THAT really bothers him. LM: And I'm sure plenty of the wrestlers are wary of his intentions as well. Even Ryudo and Hiroshi of Rising Sun Revolution refused to be in his corner last weekend -- and we'll hear more about that later. BL: You're just too mistrusting, Larry. I thought Pilgrims were supposed to have faith in their fellow man. Hehehehe...snort. LM: Be that as it may, we still have a lot to cover tonight. Let's begin with our: ************************************************************************** -------------------- IIWF WEDNESDAY WAR ROOM RECAP ---------------------- ************************************************************************** LM: As Tim Dross and Becky reported on Wendesday, the action was hot and heavy in the War Room. Let's check the fallout from those great matches. ************************************* HARLEQUIN TRAGEDY defeated NICK NAME ************************************* LM: Lord Byron watched from the wings as Tragedy easily put away Nick Name. Tragedy and Byron meet in a grudge match live tomorrow night in the Sombrero Dome in Mexico City in what should be a fantastic matchup. BL: Yeah, Tragedy will really live up to his name when Byron puts him away. *************************************** LORD BYRON defeated "NIFTY" NED NORTON *************************************** LM: As if answering Tragedy's challenge, Byron came out as aggressive as we have ever seen him and literally punished Norton. Byron really seems to be focused on tomorrow night's match: [SCENE: The study of Lord Byron's New Orleans home. Byron is seated at his desk, writing. As the camera pans around, Byron looks up and leans back, steepling his fingers. His face is deadly serious, with no trace of his trademark sneer.] LB: Harlequin Tragedy. You know, this is a man about whom I have heard great things. Tales of championships won, battles fought, a history not too dissimilar from my own. It is a pity that we had to meet under such... unforgiving circumstances, but still, come Saturday, I will be looking forward to facing you in the ring. [Byron's hands drop to the desk, and he picks up his gold pen, turning it end over end in one hand.] Tragedy, it's very rare that I come across someone who I actually carry a great deal of respect for. You are not the only one in this federation who I think that way about, of course, but I can assure you that I intend to take your challenge very seriously indeed. As I would with anyone who has a reputation like yours. [Byron carefully puts the lid on the pen and leans forward, his voice lowering to almost a whisper] You see, Tragedy, while I am a man who does not particularly enjoy being mocked by _Ms. Comedy_, I hate losing even more. And so, when Saturday comes, whichever way the match goes, I intend to give you a battle that will be remembered for years to come. You can count on that. [Byron stands up, picks up his brass topped cane and makes as if to leave, before turning back around with a sneer...] Oh, and Mr. Warnett. I'm so glad that you're making an appearance on Saturday as well. Regardless of the outcome of my match, I'll have some words for you later in the night. It's about time we ended this little spat once and for all. Ciao. [Byron turns around and walks out. Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] ******************************************************** ONSLAUGHT defeated "PAINBRINGER" BILLY SEXTON [default] ******************************************************** LM: Is there really a conspiracy afoot against Billy Sexton? His evidence, a photograph of Billy Shakespeare, IIWF President Dan Spreadbury, and Poutine Janois, head of the IIWF Special Concerns Committee, in -- shall we say -- compromising positions, certainly was strong. But there can be no denying that Sexton was himself to blame for being counted out of the ring Wednesday night. BL: Hey, Sexton has the IIWF brass squirming in their seats. He has proof -- and the suits are running scared. LM: These developments have also lighted a fire under Sexton, who seemed to be contemplating retirement just a week ago: [SCENE: Billy Sexton is once again sitting on a couch in his highrise apartment overlooking scenic downtown Toronto. Sexton, still frustrated over the events that have transpired over the past week, turns to the camera.] BS: Like I said, the IIWF powers that be are all against me. You saw the proof this Wednesday. And even the beloved president won't even comment on the matter. I know what's going on, and now Billy Sexton gets to take on Shakespeare but for some unknown reason, the title is not on the line. Why? I'll tell ya, baby. The injury that Shakespeare has is a farce. Billy boy likes to act and he did a good job convincing our president that he was hurt.... [The phone rings. Sexton turns on the speaker phone] CALLER: Mr. Sexton? BS: It's you. What do you want now? CALLER: Mr. Sexton, you will not win tomorrow night. BS: WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?! CALLER: Shakespeare has paid off the referee, the timekeeper and the president of the IIWF. BS: Why? The cat's out of the bag now. Everyone knows Shakespeare bought himself that title. CALLER: Mr. Sexton, please. The IIWF has made sure that you will not win. Mr. Sexton do you have a fax machine? BS: Yeah. Why? CALLER: There is something you must see. Please, what is the number? BS: It's 833-2212. But make it quick. CALLER: Good. I'm sending it now. I will talk to you soon. Remember Mr. Sexton, watch your back. [Click] [Sexton goes over to the fax machine. As the pages come off Sexton's facial expressions reflect more and more anger. Sexton takes the pages and shoves them into the camera. One pictures shows Shakespeare handing a package to a IIWF referee. The other shows another package from Shakespeare being passed to one of the IIWF timekeepers.] BS: This is what I have been talking about all along. Shakespeare, your time will soon come. Baby, I don't want your title anymore. Now I want your LIFE! [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] *********************************************** TIGER CLAW & CASEY JAMES defeated THE ROTUNDOS *********************************************** LM: Tiger Claw and Casey James are impressive as singles wrestlers, but they proved to be a very cohesive tag team on Wednesday night. James continued to brutalize opponents, and made his future intentions very clear in the following tape: [SCENE: The camera seems to be at an odd angle, sitting in a car seat. The only thing seen is the glove compartment. The camera is turned to show Casey James sitting in the driver's seat.] CJ: Hey, folks. I'm just out for a drive. Collecting my thoughts, you know. So, a lot has happened, hasn't it? That cripple Tony Starks is back, and what does he get for his troubles? A boot to the head. See, I run with people who run with people that want to see Starks taken out. The money's good, so how can I say no? I'm sure a lot of you will moan about me becoming a man of the dollar, but isn't that the way our country works? Onslaught seems to have problems with me, since I beat up his friend. Well, I'd love to beat the crap out of one of those Mexican wrestlers. And Tony? Don't think for a minute that I'm done with you. I got paid for a lot more than just that one attack. Of course, that's all business. I'm out here for pleasure. [Casey pulls out a thermos and pours something hot into the cup. It is obvious by now that Casey isn't driving. In fact, the car isn't even running. Casey sips the beverage.] CJ: Nothing like a hot chocolate to help warm you up on a chilly day. I swear, Maryland isn't the nicest place in November. Anyway, on to the festivities. You see, every so often I like to take a ride out somewhere and enjoy the scenery. Today is no exception. I've been sitting here for a couple of hours now checking out the wildlife. I've been waiting for one particular beast to come out of hiding, and I think I might see it right now. [Casey looks through a pair of binoculars] CJ: Yep. There it is. Wanna see? [Casey picks up the camera, and the shot swings wildly around until the camera points out through the windshield. A modest house can be seen.] CJ: This is the home of a fairly common creature in the States, but I've never seen one with such prominent markings and behaviors of his kind. You've really got to see this... [The door to the house opens, and Dan Kauffman walks out with a dog on a leash.] CJ: There it is! The Yellow Bellied Coward! And he's got a friend with him! Fans, I happen to know the name of that cute little puppy. His name is Bosco. Bosco is a loyal pet to Dan, providing unconditional love and affection. In fact, I have a feeling if anything ever happened to Bosco, Dan would be _very_ upset. We'll just have to hope that nothing like that happens. [Casey falls silent for a while, watching Kauffman walk the dog. Kauffman turns a corner, and Casey puts the camera down on the passenger seat again. Casey starts the car quickly, and begins talking as he drives.] CJ: Oh, no, Dan, you can't get away from me that easily. See, folks. Dan has something that I've had my eye on ever since I started wrestling, and that's the IIWF World Title. Some might think I was a little obsessed at the time, but what do they know? Now it's perfect. The Syndicate has a problem with Kauffman holding that belt, and I want to be the one to grab it from him. [Casey slows the car down and follows Kauffman down the street.] CJ: [singing] I'm watching you, Danny boy... [Casey begins to laugh as the shot fades. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: Casey James apparently thinks he is ready for a shot at Dan Kauffman's title. But _stalking_ him?! BL: BOSCO! Hehehehehe... snort. ********************************************** FISTO FLASH defeated "BADBOY" RANDY ACORN [DQ] ********************************************** LM: Fisto Flash had Acorn ready for a pin when Stud Stetson whacked Fisto with a baseball bat, giving Flash the win by disqualification. BL: Yeah, but Fisto refused to discuss Stetson after the match. It's clear, however, that Onslaught is still on his mind: [Fisto Flash stands inside a steel cage inside an empty arena.] FF: [looking around] Welcome, Onslaught. Welcome to MY domain. This, here, is where the wimps whine and the warriors fight. Where the babies cry and the fighters brawl. And this is ALSO where the chickens run and the masters RULE. I AM THE MASTER! This is MY castle! And you will NOT invade my palace! NEVER forget that you are on my Fist List. Because as soon as you forget... BASH! And it's over. You MUST be destroyed. And you WILL be destroyed. And it's all because of THIS man. [Mr. Kobiashi walks into the cage.] MR.K: [with a sly smile on his face] I guess it's not a secret anymore. HA HA HA! I was in cahoots with the Iron Destroyer LONG before Robo Stone was a manager in wrestling. I had made LOTS of money with Fisto Flash in boxing. Then I sold the managing rights of Fisto to Robo Stone. But now I'm BACK. I'm here to CONTROL the IIWF. Between the Stone Stable, MY mind, and The Syndicate, this wrestling world will be OURS. FF: STARKS! I put you away LONG AGO! It's good to have you back; now I can WHOOP you all over again! HA! HA! HA! HA! HA! HA! [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: Is Fisto Flash really going to ignore that attack by Stetson? BL: Why should he tell everyone about his plan for revenge? Let it be a surprise. LM: Well Stetson certainly had some words for Fisto Flash -- in addition to Marty Warnett: [SCENE: Late night on a deserted country road. All is silent until a large transport truck roars across the road. As the truck passes, a figure carrying a baseball bat can be seen walking on the road. As the camera slowly zooms in, it is revealed to be Superstar Stud Stetson carrying his patented aluminum baseball bat. Stetson continues to walk down the road as he speaks.] SS: Lately here in the IIWF, I have caused more chaos than any wrestler in this federation's history. I have let the wannabe superstars realize that I am the focal point of this organization. And when I say be ready for a "Superstar Attack," you better listen. I come with a 100% guarantee that I will kick your ass. If all the moronic fans here in the IIWF have been upset with what I have done so far, you just wait -- because it going to get a whole lot worse. [He stops walking for a moment and seems to ponder something.] Now let me see. It seems there are several punks out there in IIWF land who are a little upset by the way I run my mouth. Well, like I said before, I do it because I can. I say I am the best because it is a proven fact. Just ask the supposed "People's Champion" whose ass I whipped so hard in my debut he went running for the dressing room before it was even over. [he starts to chuckle] Yes indeed, I have been making many enemies here. To be perfectly honest, I wouldn't have it any other way. I enjoy seeing disappointment -- all those worthless fans as they see their heroes carted away on a stretcher. I enjoy people wanting a piece of me because that gives me the chance to unleash my fury. Now, Mister Warnett, you pathetic little burn out. You are the perfect model of what I detest. You are the hero of all these worthless fans. You are a punk who takes recognition that the one and only true superstar, myself, deserves. But when I finally decide to finish you off, not only will all your snot-nosed fans mourn your loss but it will be a sad day for the drug and whore business because they would have lost a valuable customer. But Warnett, let me warn you that I am not ready to end this thing quickly. It will be very slow and painful. I have your number Walnut, you must admit that. Lace and myself have suckered you on two occasions and the third time will be the charm when I wipe you out. But that doesn't mean that there will not be torment until that final encounter. Beware Warnett, you should forget all your other vendettas and focus your attention on ME, because I am the worst thing that has happened to you since you hit puberty last week. Now Fisto Flash, I am sure that you are very angry. But you brought that attack upon yourself. You should have never laid a hand on me a few weeks ago. Nobody, Flash, lays a hand on greatness like myself and gets away with it. Now you can take that as a warning and back out now or you can flush your whole career down the drain by trying to get me back. Because if we do meet in the ring, somebody is going to be a broken man... and I am unbreakable. There is another wrestler I would like to address here this fine evening and that is one J.P. Steele. You are hoping to make it here to the number one federation in the nation and you say that you have been watching it very closely lately. Well watch this [Stetson lifts up his middle finger to the camera]. Little boy, if you do get in, you will find out what the IIWF is all about because I am going to give you the beating of a lifetime. I am the next leader of the IIWF and you, along with the rest, will find that out. [Stetson crosses the road and makes his way through a farmer's field.] Now, as for you, Mr. Dross, what do you mean I need an ally? I work alon, which is always the best way. Because nobody is worthy of being my partner. Which of course brings me to "Snow Brawl." Now I understand the IIWF had to put me on a PPV due to my amazing star power but sticking me with a partner is a total crock. Worst of all I have no idea who my partner is and it possibly could be that awful Warnett. Let me just say this to whoever my partner is, you better be on the top of your game that night because I am not going to let some putz ruin my chances of making it to and winning that battle royal. So let this be fair warning that if you screw up, there will be hell to pay. Speaking of "Snow Brawl," that night I will have the ultimate treat for all you unworthy punks out there in television land. All you couch potatoes across the world will witness the unveiling of my ultimate surprise. What I am about to introduce to the IIWF will be a treat for you all. It will make "Snow Brawl" just that much more prestigious. And that night, my surprise will once again prove that when it comes to Superstars, I put everyone to shame! [Stetson whacks a tree with his bat snapping off a branch which flings towards the camera. The shot goes black. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: What arrogance! The only person whose ego surpasses Steton's is... [he glances over at Becky] BL: Don't even THINK about saying it! ******************************************************* "LONE WOLF" BRODY THUNDER defeated VENUSIAN DEATH CELL ******************************************************* LM: In one of the best matches of the night, the talented newcomer Brody Thunder got the hard-fought win with his "Thunderbolt" finisher. Thunder gets another shot at Robski tomorrow night, and he is getting fired up about the rematch: [SCENE: Brody Thunder stands on his porch at the T-Bolt Ranch. It's sunset and menacing storm clouds can be seen rolling in from the horizon.] BT: As a great man once said "the rumors of my death were greatly exaggerated." And no, I'm not referring to Paul Orndorff. I'm talkin' 'bout that martian misfit VDC. I'll say this fer ya, spaceman, you DO pack a wallop, son. I'm still answerin' the bells in my head. That's the price I pay fer bein' the best. No shame in defeat, son. That's just how it goes sometimes. Now it's time to settle another score. [Brody lights up a cigar. He takes a drag then appears to be listening to something.] Listen. Can you hear that, Robski? That's the sound of thunder comin'. Saturday night, this Thunder's comin' fer you. An' this time there won't be any o' yer friends to pull a Pearl Harbor job to help save yer hide. It's gonna come down to just me an' you. It's gonna come down to respect, Robbie ol' boy... plain n' simple... respect. That's what THIS match is really about. You want it. I want it. The winner gets it. [Brody blows a few smoke rings into the air.] Now, you've accepted this rematch with me, an' I admire you fer that, but the truth is, after I kick yer tail Saturday night, you AND the world will respect the fact that I AM just what I claim to be -- the best there is at what I do. An' what I do is wrestle, son. Just like the sign says. No snakes. No birds. No dogs. No Tammy Faye make-up jobs. No skirts with dangerous spiked heels. Just wrestlin'. Just good ol' fashion hook-'em-up-an'-take-'em-down wrestlin'. But talkin' 'bout it ain't gonna get the job done. I understand that. So Saturday night when that bell rings an' my hand is raised, I will have YOUR respect, son... [Tight close up of Brody's face with the picture tilted at a 45 degree angle.] ...even if I hafta beat it outta you! [Fade to black as a clap of thunder is heard. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: The Venusian Death Cell has been on a bit of a slide lately. He met up with our Tim Dross yesterday and seemed a bit... disoriented: [SCENE: The Venusian Death Cell is in the IIWF interview room with Tim Dross. Dross has a cup of coffee in his hand.] TD: Hi Cell! Here, have a coffee. VDC: Don't you "Hi!" me, Dross. What the hell is this? [The VDC takes the coffee and pours it straight into his mouth from a position about 10 feet in the air] VDC: Ugh. What was that stuff, Dross? TD: Don't worry, Cell, it's just a little something to calm you down. Here, have a mint. [Dross hands the Cell a packet of mints. The Cell puts the entire packet, wrapper and all into his mouth and swallows them.] TD: Hmmm, I guess I'll have to go to the 7-11 for another packet. Never mind, as long as it does the trick. VDC: Dross, please tell me what was in that coffee. TD: I can't, Cell, it'd only make you angry. Better you don't know. [pause] So, recently things have not been going too well for you in the ring, what with losing to the Subway Psycho TWICE and then losing to Brody Thunder on Wednesday evening. VDC: Tell me about it, Tim. I just can't believe it. Things were going so well for me, being number one contender to the World Title. Now look at me. It's ridiculous. I should be beating guys like Brody Thunder. I'm better than them. I know I am. TD: Well, you didn't prove it on Wednesday.. VDC: I know, Tim. Don't rub it in... please. TD: Okay, I'm sorry. So, what's next? VDC: Well, I guess I'm just going to have to work my way back up to the top, aren't I? TD: Anyone in particular you are after? VDC: Well, I'd like another shot at Thunder [VDC attempts to spit his green fluid, but nothing comes out] if that's not too much to ask, and if I could beat him, maybe I could get a shot at Billy Shakespeare for the Intercontinental Title. Hopefully, my recent slip ups in the ring won't have affected my rankings too much. I know I could beat Shakespeare given the chance. TD: [looking at his producer] This is so much easier, you know. What exactly _is_ in that drink? VDC: What are you whispering about, Tim? TD: Oh, nothing, Cell. Well? PRODUCER: I can't tell you on air, Tim. Maybe later. We've got plans to market it if it proves successful. Problem is, we're not sure how long the effects last. This is just a prototype. TD: Oh geez. [rushing] Well, Cell, thanks for your time. Maybe we can do this again some time. VDC: Is that it? Thanks a lot, Tim. I sure hope so. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] BL: Oh great, now our producer Roger Hare is having flashbacks to the 60s and is playing around with mushrooms and certain... illegal substances. LM: Now don't go making allegations! BL: I hear the Cell called Dross "sir" after that interview. LM: Oh boy. ************************************************* DEATHBRINGER defeated "HIGH ROLLER" JOHN McCLAIN ************************************************* LM: Black Death hit McClain hard, but the big story was Dan Kauffman making an appearance in the crowd during the match. He and Deathbringer had a staredown from about fifty yards, but that was it. BL: I hear Kauffman just wanted to get a good look at the _next_ IIWF World Champion. LM: I don't know about that, but Deathbringer had some curious comments for us yesterday. We'll hear that interview a little bit later. ******************************************************** THE ALPHABET BOYS defeated THE PLAYERS' CLUB [countout] ******************************************************** LM: Controversy continues to surround this match. The Alphabet Boys were up to their usual antics, eventually forcing Dynamite and Reyna to leave the ring. BL: I said it on Wednesday and I'll say it again -- I don't like The Players' Club, but to give them a loss in that match was a travesty. I guess some of Shakespeare's money is going to other matches now. ******************************************* HEAVY METAL defeated THE BARNACLE BROTHERS ******************************************* LM: Speaking of The Players' Club, they are certainly on the minds of Heavy Metal, who soundly thrashed The Barnacle Brothers: [SCENE: Robo Stone stands with HEAVY METAL, Atlas and Apollo Steele.] RS: You know, I've been kinda busy. Between LaRue's Lair, the tag-team scene, Kobiashi, and Onslaught; I haven' known where to turn my head. But, Rising Sun Revolution, don't you forget that my boys are STILL lurking in the shadows of the tag-team ranks. AT: We'd like to challenge The Player's Club to a tag-team matchup. We haven't wrestled for a while, and we need a warm-up match for RSR. Believe me, RSR, you ARE looming on our horizon. AP: PLAYER'S CLUB! We DO have alternative reasons for fightin' you. But that don't mean that we're gonna take it easy on you. RS: Think about it, Player's Club. Do you think that you're ready for THIS? [HEAVY METAL flex their biceps.] If not, then we can find some OTHER suckers to be our human bodybags. But if you're NOT chickens, then please step up to the plate. I don't think that you're losers. You'll be there. We'll be waitin'. HA! HA! HA! HA! HA! HA! [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: We'll hear more from Heavy Metal in a LIVE interview a bit later. ************************************************************************** --------------------------- IIWF TRASH TALK ---------------------------- ************************************************************************** LM: Dan Kauffman is almost one week removed from his cathartic battle with Cadaver and, judging from his staredown with Deathbringer on Wednesday night, he has a new lease on life. BL: Yeah, but _lease_ is the operative word. Kauffman is merely buying time until Deathbringer plants him. And with Casey James stalking him... LM: Let's hear from the IIWF World Champ now: [SCENE: The sun rises from the east across the horizon as a gnarled tree sends shadows stretching 100 feet or further across a desolate graveyard. Birds sing their tunes and squirrels run around minding not anything in the world. An owl screeches in either joy or alarm at the dawning of the new day. And in the distance, far away, a figure sits with his back turned to the camera, facing the dawn.] DK: So another day arrives in the secret of life. Even if I wasn't here to see it, I know that life always goes on. That was the knowledge I had not understood, that while death can take away our own existence, as it can take away the existence of our loved ones, it can never conquer life in its complete entirety. It's amazing what lessons can be learned, even at the most chaotic of times. [The camera slowly begins to zoom in and the figure, his blond hair swirling in the wind, becomes recognizable. So does the IIWF Championship belt by his side.] And yet, the meaning of death does not go away. Death is around every corner, inside the mind of every living object. Hell, without death, life could not exist. So it is that life and death walk hand in hand, watching one another from the corners of their collective eyes, waiting for a moment to intercede. [Dan Kauffman stands, stretches out, then walks back towards the camera, which is still a good 75 feet away.] What all of this has to do with my wrestling life, I still haven't the faintest idea. But everyone says I'm too philosophical for my own good, so let's put that idea to the test. Cadaver, as Tim Dross stated on Wednesday, neither one of us accomplished our mission when we clashed. We're not supposed to accomplish that mission. Life and Death walk hand in hand... We balance each other out. BUT, with that knowledge, my life has seemingly become complete. One match was all it took. Cadaver, you have your own path to walk. Maybe some other man will learn from your existence. So now the road leads to the past. And to an old rivalry. Deathbringer, we know one another well. But perhaps we don't know one another well enough. Let me explain. In the world of wrestling, my so called natural world, there are no such things as allies. I know that as well as anyone. We may have helped one another out from time to time, but still, there is no such thing as allies. Enemies, hell yes... they come in bunches, often without warning or remorse. But allies... eventually, they have no choice but to try to defeat the men with whom they have associated. I am a member of a group, and indeed, the Player's Club are my friends. But someday, I may just have to test my own friends as well. There are no such things as allies. Deathbringer, you complain that I did not look out for you in your time of crisis. I wasn't supposed to. You never seemed eager to help me out in my trials either. I didn't expect you to. When you enter the wrestling world, the ones who are successful are such because they understand that to succeed, you must watch your own back, and watch it at all times. No help is guaranteed. Help never is. Most would rather see your demise than risk helping a possible future enemy. That's the way of the world. But now you have decided to come after me in an attempt to right my wrongs. Whose wrongs are you attempting to right? Do you want to right your own wrong, since you saw me as an ally? What wrong did I do that changed you? Surely, I make mistakes, but not any of that kind. Actually, this really doesn't have anything to do with mistakes. This has to do with you wanting your gold back. You were never happy with how you lost this IIWF Championship, and I don't blame you. But now you blame me for your troubles. I was not a cause of the troubles. It is not me who you wish to fight. But you say it is. So there can be no other way. We've had our wars in the past, as we all know. We all know who came out on top. You. But keep in mind that it was also you who said that you and I shall never meet again. Not all you say in life is true. A couple of quick facts for you, Bringer. One: I am not scared to fight you, I only understand the fact that, in a blink of an eye, you can defeat me at will. Two: I am the only man to ever pin you on three separate occasions, whether by hook, crook, or cleanly. You know this as well as I do, so it is not automatic that you shall win our second war. Three: Cadaver is history, and I am a different man than I was six months ago. The battle, win or lose for me, will not have the same result. So Deathbringer, it seems as if our winding roads cross yet again. Tell me, did you foresee this happening? Or are Life and Death just simply walking hand in hand? [Kauffman finally reaches the camera and keeps walking past as the shadows from the sunlight start to close in as the shot fades to black. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: With a title defense coming up tomorrow night against the dangerous Steve Kowalski, Kauffman appears to be back at top form -- both physically and mentally. BL: Uh-huh. And then we get a cryptic message from Deathbringer. Just when you think you've got this death thing figured out... LM: Let's go to the tape: [SCENE: The graveyard. Deathbringer is standing in front of the known crypt.] DB: Well, well, well... Kauffman. You are still alive... and you were lucky that I came to your aid. But I know that you will not honor my efforts. You will say that I interfered in your match with Cadaver... and you will not recognize that it was over already. [The camera zooms in to Deathbringer's masked face] DB: But it was me who saved your worthless mortal life this past Saturday from extinction. It was me who stopped Cadaver in his devastating work and it was me who executed the spike piledriver in a way you could survive it. However, as I said, you will not honor that work -- although you should. A vast journey lies ahead of you. It will take you through good and troubled times, it will take you through the wilderness and dark moors, through peace and war. And in the end, it will take you to the dark side and your final rest. [Zoom in to Deathbringer's black eyes] DB: Once again, Fate has decided upon our Destiny. But it is different this time. There is no compassion left within me, nor is justice. You made me what I am today and you will pay the ultimate price. Kauffman, watch your back, because I stand behind you. In the weeks to come, I will walk at your side and I will take care of you. Then, as our time comes, I will collect the toll. And you will _finally_ meet your maker. Kauffman, trust me, follow me, obey me... Kauffman, fear the Reaper... [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: Whew. Did that make sense to you? BL: I don't think it had to. I think that message was meant exclusively for Dan Kauffman. LM: Perhaps Tim Dross will be able to make sense of it on "Inside the IIWF" next week. BL: All that for a shameless plug. LM: Yes, well. Steve Kowalski is ready to make the most of his title shot tomorrow night. I can't think of anyone who has earned a title shot after such a short time in the IIWF, but Kowalski may still have Shinja Chow on his mind after Chow cost him a loss at the hands of Mr. Damage: [SCENE: Steve "The Fury" Kowalski is punching a heavy bag in some forgotten gym. The bag is worn and ripped, not that Fury cares. He is working the bag at a monstrous pace. Oscar Smiles and the mysterious Pennywise are present and watching the workout. The conversation is going only two ways.] PW: He won't stop! I hear he has a shot against Kauffman's title but all I hear is... SK: [Hitting the bag] Chow... Chow... Chow. OS: He told me Mr. Damage is out of his mind now. Hell, the Australian jerk has been blessed with a 2-0 record against Fury, without really winning a match. Chow is on his mind. If I were him, I would worry about Kauffman. SK: [Stopping and turning to Oscar] Kauffman... has the title. Chow wants it. That will be the lure. Gotta break Trash Kauffman. Then Chow will come to me. Then all _hell_ breaks loose! PW: I never did understand his philosophy. OS: The most coveted belt in wrestling is just bait for Chow to him. Some of the greatest minds were mad. SK: [Continuing on the bag] Kauffman... Chow... Kauffman... Chow.... [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: While Kowalski is focusing on Kauffman and Chow, he may want to keep an eye over his shoulder. Mr. Damage seems to have yet _another_ score to settle with the New Jersey Nightmare. [SCENE: Mr. Damage stands in the IIWF interview area waving his cricket bat.] MD: Well, well, well, Kowalski. How's that head of yours after I hit it for six? My wielding willow had a crack in it after that one. That was for that "Ring Bell" incident, but you have one more beating coming from me. I see Kowalski got his title shot against Kauffman on Saturday, It's no secret that I don't like either of them, but I must say in light of recent events that I'm rootin' for Kauffman! We'll see what DAMAGE will be caused on Saturday. Now I must get my mind off Kowalski and look towards the people's puke, Subway Psycho. We have crossed swords once before and Psycho felt the wrath of the Guns Of Navarone. Psycho, you are going down quicker than Divine Brown. I will be on the top turnbuckle and I will see you down on the mat... and you will look up at me with a fear in your eyes. You will be pleading with me not to do it. But you ARE going to be THUNDERSTRUCK! And all the little Psychos around this stinking planet will be in tears because their fallen hero will be carried out on a stretcher. You may be a former WORLD CHAMP, but that don't mean nothing in my book. You are just a piece of White American Trash. You are no better than Kowalski. And one more thing. Whoever I get drawn with in the Lethal Lottery at this Eskimo Convention, I will show you one thing... RESPECT. But if you cross me, you'll be out of the match so fast you will think you have been hit by a freight train. I'll win the match by myself, if necessary. I'm in this federation to hurt people. If I get to be World Champ and get paid a lot of money for it, then so be it. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: A former champion who seems intent on getting another title shot is Otto Verhoeven. BL: Yeah, and he's got techonology on his side now: [SCENE: Otto "The Butcher" Verhoeven is standing in front of what looks like a high-tech punchbag. The whole room is filled with futuristic looking devices [like Ivan Drago's gym in Rocky IV]. A gaunt, bald man in his late forties is taking notes from a monitor which displays some stats. Nurse Heidi is there, too.] NH: Harder, liebling, you can hit that thing much harder, nicht wahr, Doctor Hinterhalt. [The gaunt man looks up.] DH: Oh, I am sure he can. After all, this is one of the most advanced pieces of equipment in the world today, so we can be optimistic that his performance will increase vastly. OV: [Snorting] This is ridiculous! First, I have to run 13 miles so you could measure my pulse and examine me like a newborn baby, then you stick all of those wires into me and I again have to run on that conveyor belt or whatever, and now you measure the strength of my punch and say it is not good enough?! Perhaps you want to meet my fist firsthand, you little... NH: Otto, please. Our German sponsors sent Doctor Hinterhalt and all of this equipment to help. Please, try again. [Otto raises his hand and delivers a hard punch to the rubber surface of the techno-sandbag. Several lights begin to blink and data begins to scroll down the monitors. Doctor Hinterhalt nods.] DH: Ja, much better. Since we started two days with your new training schedule your punching strength has already improved by three percent. I am very pleased with this development. OV: Whatever. [he turns to the camera] As you can see, I am training hard to make my way to the top again -- while other IIWF athletes prefer hanging out in bars or in alleys, wasting their time and losing their edge. These are below my concern. I am happy to see that I am in the Lethal Lottery, an event I will use to win a title shot. You see, Kauffman, I do not want your pity or your presents. I prefer to wait for an opportunity, wait until you and Deathbringer have crippled each other and then I will step in and take the title from whichever of you two holds it. NH: I only hope you can tag vith a decent vrestler and not vith one of the imbeciles vich swarm into this federation. OV: Of course I'll hope to team up with one of the true world-class athletes like Tiger Claw, Byron or Booby Lincoln, but knowing that sinister American fool, Spreadbury will surely choose some drooling pig as my partner. NH: You are talking about Onslaught, Varnett, Harlequin I'm-a-Tragedy and so on? OV: Naturlich, but if it is necessary, I am will win that tag-match alone. No one can stop the German juggernaut from reaching his goal! But someone tries, and the Subway Beggar is an obstacle on my path. So his girly does not want to come down to the ring anymore to watch how I destroy that bastard? Who cares? She was no help for him, anyway, so nothing has really changed and I will be able to tear him limb from limb in front of his beloved American fans! The Psycho will feel the Meathook, and then, I'll drag him into the SLAUGHTERHOUSE! [Verhoeven swings around and lands a powerful blow to the sandbag. The computers begin to beep shrill and Doctor Hinterhalt takes off his glasses to take another look at the data.] DH: [excited] Oh my god! That was a 42 percent improvement over the last punch! [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: One of the matches we'll be watching closely tomorrow night is Marty Warnett's matchup with Bobby Lincoln. There is definitely bad blood between these two: [SCENE: Marty Warnett paces in the IIWF interview area. He is clearly upset.] MW: So, I have one half of the Universal Flaws this weekend; namely Bobby Lincoln. A big guy, with a big mouth. And yet, it seems he can't make up his mind. Does he wrestle singles, does he wrestle tag bouts? And it seems he wants a piece of me. It speaks volumes of the improvement I've made in my short time in the IIWF that people like Lincoln and Franklin want to get in my face to boost their own careers! So, it seems the Machismo Chicken, Stud Stetson, has to hide behind the non-existent skirt of his woman. Stetson, the day will come when we meet. In fact, Prez Man Dan told me that next Saturday is the appointed date for you to meet the true new star in the IIWF. And Lace, honey, you're not the only person who can pull stunts. Last, and by all means, least, Byron. God forbid, you call me a pup? Wrong, sucker, I'm a son-of-a[BLEEP], and don't you forget it! Again, it ain't over till the rock man sings. And now the IIWF is going to the North. Gee, there had better be some men in that area or LaRue will freeze her buns off. The downside to being in the crazy tag event is that I won't be wrestling for a title, but the upshot is I'll be fighting for a title shot, the way it should be done. Who could be my partner? Byron? Stetson? Lincoln? All I care about is making it to the battle royal intact, and if that means having to carry some moron, so be it. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: We heard earlier from Casey "The Stalker" James, but the rest of the Syndicate are busy preparing for the IIWF's World Tour -- and of course "Snow Brawl." BL: With the Dark Disciples part of the Syndicate now, I wonder if Brian Lau even NEEDS Hakiro Matsuoko. He still seems to want him as a member, though: [SCENE: Brian Lau stands with Don McQueen outside the ring in the Dojo while Kane, Wulf, and Tiger Claw work on some techniques inside. By the looks of it, Tiger Claw is both impressed and amused by the unorthodox tactics of the Dark Disciples. Tiger Claw nods occasionally, and shouts out "yes!" at some points.] BL: Tiger Claw likes the style of the Dark Disciples, Don. DM: Kane and Wulf have improved remarkably since they began training with Tiger Claw and Casey James, Brian. The Disciples had the raw savagery and talent, and now those skills are being honed by two seasoned veterans. Once all that power and brutality is channelled in the right direction, we can really get ready to destroy. Our next opponents are not gonna' enjoy that, do you hear me Takezo Musashi and Domination? [The shot cuts to Tiger Claw demonstrating to Wulf how to perform martial arts kicks on a wrestling dummy, but Wulf just charges into it and stomps the dummy into pieces. Tiger Claw laughs and nods his head.] BL: These two guys are definitely the type of people I like to associate with. They've got the killer instinct. DM: I've never seen any wrestlers who just love to stomp and maim as much as Kane and Wulf. With their rising reputation for brutality, all the miserable excuses for IIWF tag teams are gonna be hiding behind Daniel Spreadbury's skirt, hoping to heaven they won't get booked for a match against these two deranged animals! Intimidation means as much as skill and everybody knows that my boys don't mess around. They get in the ring and cause damage. Guys like Pain Inc think they're big tough men, but I guarantee you that they start to tremble and go faint when they hear the names Kane and Wulf. BL: Well, we saw that brutality when they fought the Alphabet Boys, and those two idiots would have been crippled right now if it hadn't have been for Rising Sun Revolution. DM: The Alphabet Boys are just a couple of clowns hired to amuse the small children in the audience. They would have been perfect hospital fodder for the Dark Disciples. Instead, Rising Sun Revolution had to play the resident Sir Galahad role and come to their rescue. Well listen up RSR! The Dark Disciples hate it when ignorant fools like you meddle with their affairs! They hate it especially when those meddlers stand for fair play and honor and all that guff. How the hell have you guys been undefeated in this league when you're too scared to break even the most miniscule rule? That proves how weak the tag division is, and the Dark Disciples are gonna tear it down piece by piece before stampeding over RSR for those big tag straps. BL: Trust me, Don, those guys are as much a thorn in my side as they are in yours. Anyway, there's some other things we have to tell the people at home about. By now, I'm sure the fans have noticed that Casey is not here right now. Well, he's a little busy doing a little camera work of his own. He's involved with quite the situation right now... Another person involved is Tony Starks, and another is Mr. Kobiashi. [Mr. Kobiashi steps into the shot, and Brian chuckles and pats him on the back.] BL: My friend, how are you? MK: Very good, Brian. I trust everything is in order? BL: Hey, think about who you're talking to! I get the feeling the people at home are confused. You see, they think The Syndicate have been hired on by Mr. Kobiashi. This is the farthest thing from the truth. I was a businessman long before I ever came to the IIWF, and Mr. Kobiashi is one of my associates. He did me a favor long ago, and it's time for me to repay that favor. MK: And you are doing a great job taking care of Starks. That little insect has been defying me for some time now. I have tried every method I know to show him that my way is the one that will keep him alive, yet he still speaks ill of me. Well, he'll know what respect is all about after you take care of his... problem. BL: Casey is very skilled in the ways of punishment. I am honored that you came to us, Mr. Kobiashi. MK: How could I choose otherwise after I saw what Casey did to that Joe Latta? BL: Of course... I can understand that. Casey really knows how to hurt a man, and he's really come a long way since I found him. He's a man that you really want on your side, and when he sets his mind to something, he does it. Right now I have him taking care of an old enemy. MK: Don't you think that would spread him a bit thin? BL: Oh, no... Don't worry about it. Casey can handle the extra workload. Now, I have a few words regarding the Intercontinental Champion, Billy Shakespeare. Billy, how are those ribs? It seems that every time you show your face, you get beaten again by Tiger Claw. Now it sounds as if you're going to take a break for a while. Just you remember that you owe Tiger Claw a return match for that belt. I don't want you even thinking about Lincoln, Kowalski, or anyone else until you can own up to your part of the championship contract. That includes this silly notion of fighting Hakiro Matsuoko to unify the IC and CW belt. Speaking of which, I have a few words for Matsuoko. Hakiro, I've helped you and I've helped you. How do you repay me? With vicious attacks and insults. Tiger Claw made sure you kept that belt on Saturday, and he even helped you back to the locker room. So what do you do? You pick a fight with him, claiming that you didn't need our help. Hakiro, you'd better think hard about who your friends are. We're not going to be around to help you for much longer. DM: Hakiro, stop messing around and come back to the Syndicate. You know it's the only way you can succeed in the IIWF. Do you really think that Cruiserweight championship would be around your waist right now if it wasn't for your trusted friend here Brian Lau? Come back to us and we shall crush your hated rival Takezo Musashi together once and for all! BL: I think it's just that he needs to really think about it, Don. Oh well, what can I do right now? I assure you, though, that it won't be pretty if Hakiro chooses to stand against us. With that, I see that we're just about out of time. [Brian looks to Kobiashi and McQueen] Any last words? [Kobiashi shakes his head.] DM: Let's blow this joint and get some lunch. I know a real expensive place just round the block. We can take the limo and leave these hick reporters behind, they wouldn't get in dressed like that anyway. [Don puts his hand over the camera and the shot goes black. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: We mentioned Onslaught earlier in the show and his battles with Fisto Flash. Although Onslaught is not on tomorrow night's card, let's not forget that he is from that area and is sure to be lurking around the building. For now, he's still in New York: [SCENE: Onslaught is in the New York apartment of Tony Starks. He is sitting watching tapes of opponents.] ON: Flash, my blood vow is fulfilled. Why do you still seek to try to destroy me? It is over. But if you want to continue it, that can be done. The vow might have been avenged, but Starks is still here... hurt. I will not forget that for a long time. Neither will Tony. I know you might not have known about Kobiashi's plans with Lau, but I still hold you responsible for what happened to my ally. I hold you just as responsible as Lau and Kobiashi. You reap what you sow. Remember that, Lau. You don't know who you have made a deal with. The Devil himself. You shall be brought down just as he will be. Kobiashi, you know me. You know I will stop at nothing to destroy you. Nothing. No one is safe. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: As you heard at the top of the show, one of the top tag team contenders will earn a title shot against Rising Sun Revolution. Will it be the High Plains Drifters or the Armed Forces. Aaron wants to make sure his men come out on top: [SCENE: DefCon's office in the United States Army building near Arlington, Virginia. NavCom and DefCon, the Armed Forces, are sitting in easy chairs watching television. Aaron the Caddy is across the hallway at a pop machine. Aaron rushes in with three Coca-Colas in hand.] ATC: One for you, and one for you, and one for me. NC: Thanks, Aaron. DC: Yeah, man, thanks a bunch. That 40 cents a can can really add up. ATC: Alright, alright. I get the point fellas. Shouldn't you be a little more focused on tomorrow night's match? NC: Hey. We're focused completely. Right now we're just trying to stay loose, keep calm. That's why we're kickin' back. ATC: Okay, okay. I guess you deserve a little rest; you _have_ been on a roll as of late. DC: Yeah, yeah, big deal. The Players' Club was merely a fledgling organization which we quickly destroyed, the Alphabet Boys were nothing, and the match tomorrow night, well... NC: There's no doubt that Pale and Easy will put up a heck of a fight. They have never laid down for us in the past, and they won't do it here, either. However, I know that every match we've had with them, we have in fact left them Pale. Tell 'em Def... DC: High Plains Drifters, it's time for a little history lesson. On August 24th, a Saturday Night no less, we pinned you 1-2-3 in the center of the ring to win the IIWF World Tag Team Titles from you. Two belts you haven't worn since. On October 12th, I personally rolled one of you bozos up for a pinfall, and eliminated you from the four-team title match. 0 for 2. NC: Yeah, but now I think we need to focus on the bigger picture here. Like, for instance, I'll give you some history. Long, long ago there was a man named John Brown. Brown was the leader of a band of ruthless renegades, such as yourselves. His group of thugs thought that they could overpower the military, teach them a lesson. Brown's brigade attacked a military outpost in Harpers Ferry, Virginia, thinking they would be successful and take it over. The result: Within 24 hours the entire group was captured and later killed by army soldiers. There is a lesson to this story... rebels never beat the Armed Forces. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] BL: I understand Pale and Easy have secluded themselves at Josey Wales' ranch to prepare for this match. They declined to even speak to us. I mean, I can understand them not wanting to talk to Larry, but... LM: While the High Plains Drifters and the Armed Forces will be battling for a shot at the IIWF Tag Team titles tomorrow night, we will also have a big eight-man tag match for you. BL: I understand the IIWF brass didn't want to sign this match because it could lead to more gang warfare in the tag ranks, but the combatants demanded that the match be signed. LM: Indeed. Pain Inc. has forfeited its spot in the match to the Arabian Knights, who will team with Heavy Metal to take on the terrific combination of Domination and Rising Sun Revolution. What a four-man combo those two teams should make! BL: Yeah, yeah, we know all about their great friendship. But maybe Mistress can find out during the match why Rising Sun Revolution have been ducking Domination and cheating them of a title shot. LM: Oh please. If you must know, Tim Dross asked Ryudo to address that very topic when he met RSR at a charity event. He also learned more about the duo's decision to ignore Hakiro Matsuoko's plea for a corner man last weekend: [SCENE: Tim Dross arrives at a IIWF photo-shoot, where the Tag Team champions are making a charity appearance.] RYUDO: [signing an autograph] Hey Tim, what can we do for you? TD: I was wondering whether I could pick up a few comments. RYUDO: No problem Tim... [Ryudo looks across to where Hiroshi is being mobbed by a bunch of young kids. Hiroshi waves at the other two, before lifting a kid onto his shoulder.] RYUDO: ...although it looks as though Hiroshi is tied up with his fan club right now. He may not be able to speak English, but he's still good with the kids... TD: Anyway Ryudo, I was meaning to ask... why the no-show on Saturday? Hakiro had asked you to be his corner man... RYUDO: And I would have been happy to, had he not left Billy Shakespeare to the not-so tender mercies of the Syndicate a while back. He's accomplished a lot in a short time since he left the Brian Lau's company, but I still feel that not all the ties have been severed. Lau at least doesn't seem to think so. While I'm happy that he's made the effort to break away, I still don't know exactly where he stands, and with his new attitude, you have to wonder whether he truly cares for anyone but himself now. I would have been more than happy to watch his back, but who would have been there to watch mine? TD: [grinning] Domination, maybe? Or are they looking for something else from the Dragon and the Demon now? RYUDO: [shaking his head] We haven't been in touch with Domination recently, but if they feel that they're ready for a title shot, then they should petition the booking committee. We've stated time and time again that we'll defend the belts against anyone who asks for a title shot, but ultimately it's the booking committee's decision as to who are the number one contenders. TD: At the moment that appears to be the High Plains Drifters and the Arabian Knights... RYUDO: [breaking Tim off] Hold on, Tim, every team here in the IIWF could be the one to take our belts. Bar none. We're not going to take any of them for granted. First, we've got the eight-man tag match against Pain. Inc and Heavy Metal tomorrow night. TD: Do you think that Domination's title ambitions could hamper your teamwork? RYUDO: Not a chance. We're friends, and we're professionals. We know we can count on Domination as partners. They'll put aside any differences they have until they get their chance to face us in the ring. [Hiroshi staggers over, with a laughing youngster under each arm and one wrapped around his neck. He looks shattered. He says something to Ryudo, who bursts out laughing.] TD: What was that? RYUDO: He feels like he's gone half an hour with the Alphabet Boys. I'm afraid we'll have to leave you there, Tim. Duty calls. TD: Okay, guys. Thanks for the comments! [As Ryudo wanders off to join Hiroshi, a young boy approaches Dross with a pen and paper.] BOY: Hey Mister, aren't you Tim Dross? TD: [beaming and puffing his chest] Why, yes I am, sonny. Would you like an autograph? BOY: Would I ever! [He hands the pen and paper to Dross.] Just ask Becky LaRue to sign it and send it back to me! [Dross sulks as the scene fades. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] BL: Bwahahaha! Did you... snort... see that? The kid dusted Dross! Bwahaha... snort. LM: Uh-huh. Very funny. You probably paid the kid to do that. Moving on, Domination will enter tomorrow's match after suffering their first IIWF loss. Mistress wants to make sure Pain Inc. won't cost them any more losses: [SCENE: Mistress sits with IIWF rookie reporter Steve Summer in an office.] SS: Thank you for your time Mistress. You and Domination have been very quiet since your defeat at the hands of the Arabian Knights. MI: Defeat, no. Setback, yes. It was irritating to lose, but there can be no excuses. SS: Not even Pain Inc. jumping Domination before the match? MI: As I said, there can be no excuse. There never should be. That is why, for the past week and until next Wednesday, when I hope Domination will get a match against the High Plain Drifters, a match we never fully finished, my boys have been in disciplining. SS: Don't you mean training? MI: No, I mean disciplining. How do you think they can withstand so much pain? It is because I work so hard on enabling them to take pain, absorb it, then fire it right back at their opponents. SS: That would explain a lot. MI: Yes, it would. However, I do not wish to talk about that any longer. SS: Can I ask you about these reports that you feel Domination are all that is what is keeping RSR as the tag team champions. MI: I will not comment on that. What I will comment on is my new proposal. SS: And what is that? MI: It's an exclusive to you Mr. Summer. You see, I am led to believe that at "Snow Brawl" on December 21st will see my team & RSR face Dark Disciples & Pain Inc. Good, I say, very good. But until then, order must be restored within the tag-ranks of the IIWF. I know it has been chaos, and I know a lot of it has been our fault, but the chaos must end. That is why I have had this contract prepared, to be upheld by all tag teams that sign it. SS: And what does this contract say? MI: It says that if any of us interfere in another's match before "Snow Brawl," there will be a punishment. SS: And that punishment would be? MI: Nothing drastic. Just another number in the loss column for the person who interferes. SS: Why have you developed this contract? MI: Because now we want to wrestle. We've had our fun, we've had our fights. Now we want to fight recognized, legitimate fights, and push ourselves towards the title that we so truly deserve. SS: Mistress, thank you very much. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: Wow, Steve Summer has been doing some good work lately. BL: [looking off in the distance and purring] Mmmmmm. I'll say. There is a lot to be said for youthful vigor. LM: Well I won't ask what _you're_ thankful for this Thanksgiving! BL: Let's just say I enjoyed a little _stuffing_ with my turkey. Hehe. LM: Ahem. Moving on, I can tell you that Pain Inc. will NOT be a part of that big eight-man match because they apparently are still training in Indonesia. That word came down from a rather large individual named Hades who... LM: Just take a look for yourself: [SCENE: A press conference in Jakarta. There are quite a few Indonesian reporters present, as well as journalists from CNN, ESPN, TSN, etc. There is a explosion of flash bulbs as a huge man -- approx 7'3" and 375 lbs -- steps up to the podium. He has no expression on his face.] MAN: My name is Hades, and I am now the personal assistant to Mr.Mic! ESPN: [laughing] Awww, does Mr.Mic need a babysitter now? Ha ha ha! [Hades stares at the man with a look of contempt. His eyes seem to breathe fire. The ESPN reporter stops laughing and appears to be forced back into his seat with a resounding THUD!] HADES: NO, pathetic little man, he does not need a babysitter. Mr.Mic is a very smart businessman and does not want his investments jeopardized in any way. THAT'S WHY I'M HERE. CNN: Where is Mr.Mic now and what are your duties, Hades? HADES: Mr.Mic and Pain Inc. are off in a secluded place in the countryside. They are all training, including Mr.Mic. When Pain Inc. comes back in two weeks, the IIWF and more importantly, the Rising Sun Revolution and Domination, won't know what hit them. As for my duties, that is none of your business. But I will tell you that no one is going to lay a hand on Mr.Mic anymore! TSN: What kind of training are they doing Hades? HADES: Everything -- spiritual, physical, mental. I know that Morningstar is working on his martial arts and inner strength and that Hellraiser is having... how you say... a complete overhaul? This team that comes back will be deadlier, stronger, and more focused than ever before... just in time for "Snow Brawl." ESPN: What about Mr.Mic? HADES: Mr.Mic is more in spiritual training. He is learning to control his emotions and be more in control of his team. [he smiles] Don't worry though, his vocal chords will be more active than ever. I will be back next week to report on the new Pain Inc. and Mr.Mic. [Hades leaves the podium. Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: Just when you think Mr. Mic has found all of the monsters in the world.... BL: Yeah, but I understand The Arabian Knights aren't too thrilled about being substituted for Pain Inc. in this eight-man match. Remember, it was Heavy Metal who injured the Prince awhile back. Those two teams aren't the best of friends. LM: Indeed. Let's hear from the Knights now: [SCENE: Mr Kaseem and the Arabian Knights stand in the IIWF interview area. All three men seem quite happy.] MK: Well, well, well. Who would have thought it? Pain Inc. actually helped the Arabian Knights secure a victory. It just shows how some things have changed [he laughs] It also shows how some things remain the same and why certain teams will never hold the tag team belts, allowing themselves to be sucked into petty feuds which cost them victories. PA: Not that we needed any help from those infidel pigs, but at least it meant we did not have to even break into a sweat. In fact, Omar was quite disappointed. It has been some time since he has been able to give someone a real beating, eh Omar? [Omar rubs his hands and grins maniacally ] MK: Now on to our next match. It would seem that we are going to get a chance to go up against Rising Sun Revolution this Saturday, only it's not in a straightforward tag team competition for the titles. It's in an eight-man tag match, and who are our partners? Heavy Metal. PA: I cannot believe this. Is the IIWF President trying to purposely wind me up? He knows how I feel about those two lead-headed morons. After what they did to me, how can we hope to win? Even if they hadn't attacked me we still wouldn't stand a chance. They are so stupid that they even make Omar look like a brain surgeon! I cannot believe this -- we get a chance to finally go up against the champions and all the odds are weighted against us. This is just not fair! [Prince Abdul storms off] MK: The Prince will soon calm down. I don't think things are as bad as Prince Abdul thinks, but he does have a valid point. There is a lot of bad blood between us and Heavy Metal. On Saturday I'm also going to be keeping a very close eye on the match between the Armed Forces and the High Planes Drifters. It is strange, but we have yet to come up against either of these two teams. I am sure though, that this situation will change in the very near future... especially if either of those teams manages to wrest the tag team belts from Rising Sun Revolution. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: [holding a finger over his ear piece] I'm told we now have a LIVE satellite feed from the Stone Mansion. Let's get some comments on this big matchup from one of the top contenders here in the IIWF tag ranks, HEAVY METAL. [Cut via satellite connection to the Stone Mansion. Robo Stone sits with Atlas and Apollo Steele.] Hello, Robo. Hello Atlas, Apollo. How are you guys feeling today? RS: Better than you, Morton. LM: Yes, well, anyway. HEAVY METAL has been kind of quiet these days. I think it's strange that this team is not active due to their competitive nature. RS: They've been trainin'. They're meaner, tougher, and stronger than EVER before. LM: Atlas and Apollo, how did you react when you first heard that you were going to team up with the Arabian Nights against Rising Sun Revolution and Domination? AT: EVERYBODY knows that HEAVY METAL don't need NOBODY to team up with! But it wasn't OUR decision, it was President Spreadbury's. But it's okay. 'Cause this is OUR chance to DESTROY the team that's been keepin' us down from the top a' the hill. And that's Rising Sun Revolution. AP: We've been quiet for a while because Rising Sun Revolution has come back with a vengeance. They are STILL undefeated! They've taken OUR spotlight away! It's PAYBACK time, baby! LM: So I assume you'll go right after RSR, huh? RS: That's what they just said, numbskull. BL: Hehehe... snort. Hey Robo, Becky LaRue here. I understand there is some history between HEAVY METAL and the Arabian Knights. Is the tension still left from when you guys injured the Prince? RS: Of course, there's tension. Any time two teams fight against each other, tension is left in the two teams' minds. But we are comin' into this four-man tag match with confidence that the Arabian Knights are our FRIENDS, NOT our ENEMIES. And if they should happen to decide to pull a Benedict Arnold; well, then, that's the end of ANOTHER team's career here in the IIWF. LM: Well, our satellite feed has just about run out. Thank you, Robo Stone and HEAVY METAL, for your time. Good luck tomorrow night. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] BL: Good luck? You KNOW you didn't really mean that! You're such a suck-up. LM: [ignoring her] Another big tag matchup tomorrow night will pit the Zodiac Connection against G.W.R. We sent Bulldog Brown to get the scoop from G.W.R.: [SCENE: Outside a large house. There are still leaves lying about. No one seems to be around. The camera pans, taking in the surroundings, lingering on the house for a bit, then comes to a stop. Bulldog Brown's voice can be heard, obviously directed to the camera man.] BB: What time do you make it? VOICE: About ten past. BB: They're late. [The camera pans back around as Loco and Spoiler run into view. They come to a stop, slightly out of breath. Loco seems to have a bruise over his eye.] SP: Are you early or are we late? BB: You're late. SP: Great. We're getting slow. [He massages the back of his head slightly.] Give us five minutes. [The scene shifts inside. The room is quite large, and is very well furnished. Spoiler and Loco are seated, with Bulldog opposite them.] SP: Ask away. BB: First of all, how did the tour go? SP: Not too bad. We won on A Question of Sport for a start. [he pauses.] Apparently there's a highlight package of the tour being put together, which you should see next week. [he looks off camera for a second and then nods] BB: Since you've come back though, you've lost your unbeaten record to The Armed forces. SP: Yeah, we have. Can't say that I'm too pleased. And he's even less pleased [points to Loco] Anyone who gets hit with a golf club is going to go down. He's no exception, I'm no exception. Mind you, in a way, it's a compliment that they needed to use a golf club to beat us. BB: A compliment? SP: Yeah. It means they couldn't outwrestle us, doesn't it? BB: That's a matter of debate. Anyway, after the match your manager, General Kane, [he looks around] who is conspicuous by his absence by the way, had a few words with Aaron. Do you know what was said? SP: Let's just say that he wasn't pleased, shall we? No, actually let's just say he was spitting mad, as you can well imagine. BB: Rumour has it that you've asked for a rematch. [Spoiler nods] SP: Yep. I think the request has already gone to the president's office. BB: But first, of course, you have the match this Saturday with the Zodiacs. SP: Yeah. It's tempting to just write the Zodiacs off, just like the daily rubbish in the papers. But it would be a mistake. Like all the teams here, they have a fair modicum of talent. It could prove a tough match. BB: Any predictions for the match? SP: What a stupid straight line, Brown. BB: Worth a try. SP: No it wasn't. [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: Spolier and Loco aren't taking the Zodiacs lightly, and it may be a good thing based on Taurus and Scorpio's impressive win over the Players' Club earlier this week: [SCENE: A blur of colors fills the screen. As the camera zooms out, the image of the Zodiac Wheel is seen. Taurus and Scorpio, The Zodiac Connection, step in front of the wheel.] SCORPIO: Well, well, well, look at what we have here! It seems that the Zodiac Connection has been ignored by the powers that be in spite of that great we win we had over The Players' Club! TAURUS: It doesn't matter my friend. In due time the Zodiac Connection, with the support of the powers that count -- the fans in the IIWF -- will emerge victorious over the forces of evil. SCORPIO: You have a point big man! Teams like the Arabian Knights, Pain, Inc., Armed Forces.... none of these teams has a chance when they face us by our rules: good clean wrestling! I am glad that the Arabian Knights have accepted our little offer for a match. It seems that they are the first ones who need to be knocked from their self-created ladder of success! TAURUS: There will be others. Pain, Inc. realizes that things between us have not been resolved. Pisces may have departed the IIWF but that does not mean that we do not have any friends here in the IIWF. But instead of forming alliances with other wrestlers, we have chosen to make a contract with the fans... because they are the greatest supporters that any wrestler can truly have! SCORPIO: Make no mistake about it! We will climb the highest mountain in order to attain our goal -- success in the greatest league in wrestling... the IIWF! [Fade. Cut back to Larry and Becky in the studio.] LM: Taurus and Scorpio -- looking to the crowd for support. BL: Hey, the fans have never won a match in the IIWF. I'd rather have Aaron's golf club any day of the week! LM: I'll bet it's not the first time you said that! HAHAHAH... ow, ow. Let go! Please! Please! BL: Awww, does that hurt, little Pilgrim? Now leave the funny stuff to me and get on with the preview. LM: Gasp. Okay, okay. ************************************************************************** --------------------- IIWF SATURDAY NIGHT PREVIEW ---------------------- ************************************************************************** LM: Fans, our first IIWF World Tour kicks off tomorrow night from the raucous Sombrero Dome in Mexico City. There is a great tradition of professional wrestling in that city, and you can bet the Dome will be rocking. BL: I've had the burritos in the Sombrero Dome. The place will _definitely_ be rocking. LM: And here are the outstanding live matches we'll be bringing you: * Lord Byron vs. Harlequin Tragedy * EIGHT-MAN TAG MATCH: Rising Sun Revolution & Domination vs. Arabian Knights & Heavy Metal * NON-TITLE MATCH: Billy Shakespeare vs. Billy Sexton * FOR THE CHANCE TO BECOME #1 CONTENDERS: High Plains Drifters vs. Armed Forces * Tiger Claw vs. White Phoenix * Marty Warnett vs. Bobby Lincoln * Brody Thunder vs. Robski * Subway Psycho vs. Mr. Damage * Zodiac Connection vs. G.W.R. * IIWF WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH: Dan Kauffman vs. Steve "The Fury" Kowalski LM: So if you just happen to be in the Mexico City area tomorrow night... BL: Find something else to do because the show is a sellout. ************************************************************************** -------------------------- IIWF NEW BLOOD ----------------------------- ************************************************************************** LM: Fans, I'd like to tell you about a couple of newcomers who could be shaking things up during the next few weeks. First up is Harlequin Chaos, who... BL: NO! NO! NO! No more Harlequins! They're coming out of the woodwork! LM: But I think that... BL: These people are looney! Can you imagine what the holidays are like around their house? They hang stockings from the mantle! LM: What's wrong with that? BL: Harlequin Grandma is still wearing them! LM: Yes, well... BL: Inbreeding only gets you so far before extra appendages come into play! LM: Let's just go to the stats: [The following statistics roll on the screen:] Harlequin Chaos ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Weight: 325lbs Height: 6'7" Origin: Sleepy Hollow, Illinois Manager/Valet: Harlequin Melody Appearance: Black tights and boots, a vest that appears to be a straitjacket with the sleeves torn off. Down the left leg of his tights is airbrushed the word CHAOS with the A being an anarchy symbol and the O a yin-yang symbol. He also wears a steel mask that appears to be a twisted combination of Tragedy's and Comedy's which he removes to reveal a face completely painted in a random multicored pattern. He has brown hair, and his eyes change color as his personality [and wresling style] changes. Melody wears a silver women's singlet with music notes in black on it, and a steel mask with muic notes for eyeholes. She removes the mask to reveal a beautiful face with music notes painted in blue on both cheeks. She has blonde hair and blue eyes. Theme Music: "Mathematics of Chaos" by Killing Joke Orientation: Neutral [basically does whatever Tragedy tells him to] Five Favorite Moves: 1. Jacknife Power Bomb 2. Side Russian Leg Sweep 3. Moonsault 4. Headbutt [preferably with his mask on] 5. Figure Four Leglock Finishing Move: Sanitybreaker - puts immense pressure on the temples, and then Chaos lifts his opponent into the air by his head after clamping it on. Primary attributes: 1. Strength 2. Technical 3. Teamwork Profile: Tragedy's insane younger brother. Only 16 years old, his size and mental condition are the result of a bizarre chemical imbalance in his brain. In the ring, Chaos' personality changes along with his wrestling style. From technical, to aerial, to brawling etc. The only one who has any luck in controlling Chaos' mood swings is the beautiful singer Melody, Comedy's college roommate and tag team partner. Tag team partner: Harlequin Tragedy Name of team: The Harlequins Tag team finisher: Harlequin Hellraiser [Tragedy goes to the top rope, Chaos sets up opponent in a vertical suplex. Tragedy leaps off and piledrives opponent to the mat.] [Handler: David Lawson ] LM: Tim Dross met earlier this week with another newcomer to the IIWF -- although this man has been around for quite awhile. BL: Oh jeez, it ain't Hogan, is it? LM: Nope. I'm speaking of Mad Dog Watkins, and he had some strong words for a few wrestlers in the IIWF: [SCENE: A dimly lit gymnaseum whose tattered and boarded windows offer only the slightest amount of sunlight inside. Around the gym are boxing hopefuls, working out and sparring in the hopes of one day reaching their dreams. In the middle of the room stands a makeshift wrestling/boxing ring that has seen better days. Slowly, the front door opens and in walks Tim Dross. Slowly at first and then a little more assuredly after surveying the surroundings. Dross makes his way toward the ring, where a large black male is having his way with his smaller and apparently younger opponent. Dross checks his watch, and then starts to call out to the black man in the ring. He is cut off by Ned Kowalcyk, the owner and proprieter of the gym, who is dressed in a dirty grey sweatsuit. The cigar he smokes fills the air.] NK: I wouldn't interrupt him, if I wuz you. TD: Excuse me? NK: Mad Dog doesn't take to kindly to being interrupted. TD: Oh, I see. I'm Tim Dross from the IIWF. Mr. Watkins was expecting me at 5 o'clock. NK: Da name's Kowalcyk...Ned Kowalcyk - owner of the place. Take a seat -- Mad Dod works on his own time table. [The two men shake hands and then sit down on a well-worn bench to watch the action in the ring. Watkins is sweating profusely as he methodically works over the youngster's back and ribs. After a few minutes of pounding, Watkins hits with his finisher "Every Dog has His Day", a Samoan Drop from the second rope, and finishes his workout. Kowalcyk throws him a towel and helps the youngster out of the ring. Watkins towels off, and then heads over to where Dross is sitting.] TD: Mr. Watkins, I'm... MD: [in a low and gravely voice] I know who you are. Your name's Dross and you're one of Spreadbury's boys. TD: Yes sir. How'd you... MD: I've seen your work. You think that Spreadbury hasn't been sending me the tapes of Saturday Night for the last two months or so? Of course, I don't know if I'm suppossed to be impressed or what. TD: Well, I can assure you that the talent level in the IIWF is the best in the world. Our roster is filled top to bottom with some of the most recognizable and talented wrestlers in the business today. MD: Yeah, yeah, yeah -- save the sales rap, son. I've been hearing that song and dance from your brass for far too long. Let me tell you one thing, I see the boys you have in the IIWF and I'm not too impressed. Talent? It's all in the eye of the beholder. TD: Well I've been sent here to get an exclusive interview with you, Mad Dog, so you must have seen something that helped to make your decision to sign a contract with the IIWF. Now, you haven't seen much action outside of the various independent shows you've done in the past few years since the end of the Supercards. What makes you think you can step into the IIWF and be successful right away? MD: First off, son, it's not a matter of thinking. I know. I've only got one man in this world to impress and convince, and you're looking at him right now. Spreadbury sent me a plane ticket to come and see Ring Wars II, and I joined him in the IIWF skybox. I practically laughed through the whole show. Guys like Quigly, Kauffman, Shakespeare... all jokes. TD: Well, you're entitled to _your_ opinion. What about others -- men like Tiger Claw, Otto Verhooven, Subway Psycho? MD: Hah. You think any of these boys could have lasted one minute in the ring 15 years ago? Not quite. They've got no heart. Only kid in the whole damn fed that even measures up is Bruno's kid, Kowalski -- and he's green. My question for you is what makes Spreadbury think the IIWF can handle me? TD: Your track record notwithstanding, it has been a while since you last competed against major competition. I'm sure many will question your ability to match up with the IIWF's best. MD: Let 'em. That's the way I like it. Overlook me and it makes it all the easier for me to whoop you. Prepare for me, and I'll change the game. Let me tell you what... I've got a open contract. Let's see if any of your supposed big boys are man enough to sign it. Until then, I'll wrestle your dark matches, destroy your preliminary wrestlers, play your little waiting game. But one day, someone will decide to take that step out onto the ledge and sign their name. Just remember that the first step is a doozey, and I guarantee you that your fall will come hard and fast. You can take that to the bank. [He gets up from his seat and throws his sparring partner back into the ring.] Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to get back to what I do best. [As the shot fades, the following statistics roll on the screen:] Mad Dog Watkins ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Weight: 6'5" Height: 269lbs Origin: Detroit, MI Appearance: Mad Dog is an older wrestler, somewhere in his mid to late thirties. He is a black man of decent build. He's never done the "Juice" in his life, nor has he had to - one look at him and you can tell how naturally big and strong he is. He has a thick upper body with broad shoulders, but is muscular without being exceptionally defined. He is not handsome, and his face shows the reminders of years of ring experience. He is completely bald [shaved], and sports a modest goatee. He is not a flashy dresser, both in and out of the ring. His ring attire is fairly simple -- he wears long black tights with purple trim around the waist and black kneepads, black wrestling boots, and always has black or white tape on his wrists. Theme Music: "Paint it Black" by the Rolling Stones Orientation: Heel 5 Favorite Moves: 1. Spinebuster 2. Tiger Driver 3. Lariat 4. DDT 5. Suplex [of all shapes and forms. Especially likes to set for a vertical suplex, but drop his opponent face first instead, either on the mat or, more often than not, across the top rope.] Finishing Move: "Every Dog Has His Day." The maneuver is a Samoan Drop from the second rope. Being naturally gifted with good upper body and leg strength, Watkins will either sit his opponent on the top rope and then pick him up for the Samoan Drop, or [in the case of a lighter opponent] he will put them up on his shoulders first, and then climb to the second rope for greater impact and emphasis. Primary attributes: 1. Strength 2. Endurance 3. Intelligence Profile: Watkins is a cagey veteran, who was a "Lone Wolf" type of wrestler before it was cool to be so. He wrestles in the Anderson-style school [relentless, persistent, focused, few mistakes], but since he is considerably stronger than any of the Andersons, his style is a bit more flashy and higher impact. He is not a man known for his good nature or humor, but he can respect a wrestler who he finds similar in ability and mindset. He has been around for over a decade, wrestling for various independent promotions - mostly notably the Independent Supercards where he met the man he still claims to be "the craziest S.O.B. ever to step foot in the ring with me", Bruno the Sandman [father of "The Fury" Steve Kowlaski]. Watkins has never been a wrestler driven by the need to earn a bigger paycheck or to hold a title [even thought many have come his way over the years]. He simply loves to wrestle. He is sort of a mix of two different generations of wrestling. For example, he doesn't believe in being flashy, and being popular is not a high priority. What is important is being sucessful. He is not an advocate of the sneak attack ["I'm man enough to look a guy in the eye, tell him I'm going to whoop his ass, and then remind him of what I told him after I've done it." - Mad Dog], but he is not above it either. He never has given out his real name, simply going by the moniker of Mad Dog, a name derived from his fierce style in his early matches [One commentator - "Watkins is going after his opponent like a mad dog, unmercifully punishing this poor man"! His partner replies, "Yeah, but a bullet could stop a mad dog...would it even faze this guy?"] Above all, Watkins is about respect and success. His childhood was not a luxorious one, growing up in the ghettos of Detroit. But he has never let that hinder him or used it as a crutch. The one thing he learned was that in order to be successful and to earn respect was to work hard and simply be the best at what you do, a philosophy learned from his bluecollar parents. Such a philosophy lead him to 4 All-City honors while playing linebacker at his Detroit highschool. But the gridiron wasn't to be his calling, having to turn down major scholarship offers in order to take a job out of high school to help support his mother and sisters after his father passed away near the end of his senior year. A few years later, Watkins was convinced to try his hand in the ring by a local wrestling promoter, and his intensity and love of football successfully transfered to the "sport" of wrestling. The rest, as they say, is history. His desire to be the best and earn the respect of his peers makes Watkins come off with a "heelish" attitude, both to the fans and to his fellow wrestlers. Of course, it doesn't matter to Watkins what the others think about him as long as he keeps on winning, knows his the best at what he does, and others respect him, if not like him, for his ability and success. [Handler: Joey Oakes ] ************************************************************************** --------------------- LATEST IIWF SINGLES RANKINGS --------------------- ************************************************************************** ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Name F/H Fought W L D Win% Ranking (old) new ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Dan Kauffman F 21 15 4 2 76% (WC) WC Billy Shakespeare F 24 17 6 1 73% (IC) IC Hakiro Matsuoko N 24 13 10 1 56% (CW) CW ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Deathbringer H 23 18 3 2 83% (1) 1 "Enigma" Takezo Musashi N 17 13 4 0 77% (2) 2 Otto Verhoeven H 15 11 3 1 77% (3) 3 The White Phoenix F 12 9 3 0 75% (4) 4 Steve Kowalski H 8 6 2 0 75% (5) 5 Subway Psycho F 21 14 5 2 71% (7) 6 Lord Byron H 7 5 2 0 71% (10=) 7= Onslaught F 7 5 2 0 71% (10=) 7= Stud Stetson H 5 3 1 1 70% (9) 9 Bobby Lincoln H 3 2 1 0 67% (12) 10 Billy Sexton H 20 13 7 0 65% (13) 11 Venusian Death Cell H 8 5 3 0 63% (8) 12 Harlequin Tragedy N 4 2 1 1 63% (19) 13 The Sandman F 18 11 7 0 61% (14) 14 Tiger Claw H 32 18 12 2 59% (16) 15 Marty Warnett F 22 13 9 0 59% (15) 16 Casey James H 24 13 9 2 58% (17) 17 Robski H 21 11 10 0 52% (18) 18 Mr. Damage H 17 8 9 0 47% (20) 19 Fisto Flash H 24 10 12 2 46% (22) 20 "Badboy" Randy Acorn H 16 6 8 2 43% (21) 21 John McClain F 5 1 4 0 20% (23) 22 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Brody Thunder H 3 3 0 0 100% (24) 23 Harlequin Chaos N - - - - - (-) - Mad Dog Watkins H - - - - - (-) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Chris Quigley F 11 8 3 0 73% (-) - Vinny Cappicola F 12 5 4 3 54% (-) - Don Antonio F 20 10 10 0 50% (-) - The Hangman H 11 4 4 3 50% (-) - Legion F 15 7 8 0 47% (-) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ************************************************************************** -------------------- LATEST IIWF TAG TEAM RANKINGS --------------------- ************************************************************************** ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Name of team F/H Fought W L D Win% Ranking (old) new ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Rising Sun Revolution F 8 8 0 0 100% (WT) WT ------------------------------------------------------------------------ High Plains Drifters H 20 14 5 1 73% (1) 1 The Arabian Knights H 11 8 3 0 73% (2) 2 Domination F 5 3 1 1 70% (3) 3 Heavy Metal H 10 7 3 0 70% (5) 4 The Armed Forces H 20 13 6 1 68% (4) 5 Pain Inc. H 12 7 5 0 64% (5) 6 The Alphabet Boys F 12 6 4 2 58% (7) 7 The Zodiac Connection F 13 6 7 0 46% (8) 8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ GWR N 3 2 1 0 67% (9=) 9= The Dark Disciples H 3 2 1 0 67% (9=) 9= The Players' Club F 5 1 4 0 20% (11) 11 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Atomic Destroyers H 12 7 4 1 63% (-) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ************************************************************************** ----------- COMING TUESDAY: "INSIDE THE IIWF" WITH TIM DROSS ----------- ************************************************************************** LM: Be sure to catch up on all the IIWF news and rumors on "Inside the IIWF" with your host Tim Dross, coming your way Tuesday night along most of these same stations. Tim and Steve Roberts will call all the action tomorrow from the Coliseum on "IIWF Saturday Night." Becky and I will be back with you next week for more news and interviews, so until then, this is Larry Morton for Becky LaRue saying... BL: Larry is a turkey! LM: ...so long, folks! BL: [clucking at Larry] Gobble, gobble, gobble! [The remote camera zooms back up the aisle as a group of IIWF fans begin to beat the crap out of the two geeks wearing "N.W.O." t-shirts. The credits roll by too quickly to read. Fade.] +=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= I * I * W * F =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+ | President: Daniel Spreadbury | Vice-President: Steve Owens | | univ0322@sable.ox.ac.uk | sowens@admin.presby.edu | | iiwf@sisko.demon.co.uk | IIWFadmin@aol.com | +=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- http://www.sisko.demon.co.uk -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=+