##### ###### ### ########## ########## ########## #### ## ########## ########## ########## #### # #### ######## ##### ##### #### ## ##### #### #### #### #### ### #### #### #### #### ############# ######### #### #### ########### ######### #### #### #### #### #### ######### ######### ### #### #### ######### ######### ### ## #### ######## ######## ## # #### =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ## =-=-=-= INTERNATIONAL INTERNET WRESTLING FEDERATION =============================================== W + E + D + N + E + S + D + A + Y W + A + R R + O + O + M ----------------------------------------------- + 4 December 1996 + [The opening graphics fade through to a darkened studio. Two figures sit at a curved desk in front of a large television set. Behind the desk, a large window is seen, and through it, the lights of Paris glimmer silently. The studio lights rise as the video wall comes to life with the IIWF logo. Seated at the desk are Tim Dross and Becky LaRue.] TD: Welcome everybody to another edition of IIWF Wednesday War Room! I'm Tim Dross, and beside me is my broadcast colleague, the lovely Becky LaRue. We're coming at you live from Paris, France, and what a beautiful city it is. BL: It's the city of love, Timmy, but I don't think the IIWF superstars are in the mood for moonlit walks down the Seine at the moment. TD: No, they most certainly are not. Fans, on tonight's show we'll be giving you all the low-down on the action that went down earlier on in the Michelin Centre, where the IIWF's top superstars have been battling it out. Larry Morton is at the arena as we speak. Larry? [Tim and Becky turn to face the television set, on which the image of Larry Morton appears. He is standing outside a large arena. A few fans remain behind him, and they wave and pull faces as Morton looks at the camera.] LM: Yes, Tim, I'm here outside the Michelin Centre in central Paris. The technical crew have already finished packing up the ring and the rigging, and they're preparing to take all of the equipment across the Channel to set up in the Royal Albert Hall for Saturday Night's show. What a night of action it's been -- you won't believe some of the things that have gone down here. TD: We'll be back to hear from you again over the course of the show, Larry. [A street performer dressed as a clown wanders into shot behind Larry.] BL: Hey, Larry, turn around and look behind you! [Larry turns, and nearly jumps out of his skin. The clown looks on bemused as Morton practically falls out of shot. The IIWF logo once again fills the television screen. Tim and Becky turn back to their desk.] TD: That wasn't very nice, Becky. BL: Paris is a great place -- all those weird street performers. The Harlequins must feel right at home here. TD: The Harlequins were in action earlier on tonight, with Chaos making his in-ring debut, and another new IIWF superstar, the vicious Mad Dog Watkins, also made his first IIWF appearance tonight. Let's hear some comments from this unsavoury individual, taped before he hit the ring: [SCENE: Backstage in the corridor leading to the arena dressing rooms. The camera cuts back immediately to see Mad Dog Watkins slam the door to his dressing room, and push past a startled ring attendant who was unfortunate enough to get in his way. Watkins places his hand on the camera, and rushes on by towards the aisle entrance, but then stops and turns around and addreses the camera.] MD: Come here, boy. I don't have time for you, but I've got a message for the rest of the chumps out there, including the suits up in the office. Don't expect me to take it easy on your super jobbers. This chump tonight will pay for his lack of talent and his bad interview skills that keep him as the IIWF's whipping boy. And so will the rest until someone is man enough to step in the ring with me. McAuthur damn sure ain't ready for what I'm going to bring, and neither is the rest of the IIWF. Everyone might just get used to seeing me destroy punks like this guy, 'cause Mad Dog has arrived and the IIWF ain't gonna know what to do! [Watkins throws his water bottle at the cameraman, who quickly dodges, and then puts his towel over his head and walks off determinedly towards the ring. Cut back to the studio.] TD: That's one fired up individual, and he was certainly effective in the ring. Let's go to the results recap: [The television set displays images of the wrestlers and their stats:] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= MAD DOG WATKINS vs. MAJESTIC MAURICE McARTHUR =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'5" HEIGHT 6'1" 269lbs WEIGHT 250lbs Strength, Endurance, ATTRIBUTES Mat, Brawling, Cheating Intelligence ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Watkins was completely dominant in his IIWF debut, making very short work indeed of Triple M. Watkins is clearly a very punishing athlete, as evidenced by his high-impact style. BL: This guy knows every single suplex in the book, and I think McArthur felt the effects of about twenty different types in the space of three minutes. TD: McArthur was finished by the combination of a facebuster suplex and a Samoan drop from the second rope, known as "Every dog has his day." Watkins may not have made any friends in the crowd, but he certainly made an impact, and he was watched from the aisle by Steve "the Fury" Kowalski. There's a definite connection of some sort between Watkins and Kowalski, due to the fact that Watkins feuded with Kowalski's father, Bruno the Sandman, back when he was a rookie. From what I've heard of those encounters, that's how Watkins came to be as tough as he is today. Whether Kowalski wants to follow in his father's footsteps, or join forces with the Mad Dog, is unclear, but we'll be keeping our eyes on this situation, folks. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= HARLEQUIN CHAOS vs. "NIFTY" NED NORTON =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'7" HEIGHT 6' 325lbs WEIGHT 245lbs Strength, Technical, Teamwork ATTRIBUTES Mat, Technical, Aerial ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Another IIWF newcomer made his debut earlier tonight: the genetic wonder that is Harlequin Chaos. BL: Genetic wonder?! That kid may be huge, but he's really not all there. TD: He may be slightly differently advantaged, Becky, but... BL: [interrupting] He's a few sandwiches short of a picnic. TD: Please, Becky, that's un... BL: [interrupting] He's two cans short of a six-pack. TD: We get the point, Becky. In any case, the prodigous Chaos hit the ring tonight and showed just why he's such an unpredictable force. He started things off with a couple of nice takedowns, a few frustrating submission holds, just to assert himself over Norton, but as soon as "Nifty" Ned got a shot or two in, Chaos suddenly seemed to snap, and he went into overdrive on his hapless opponent, hitting him with high-impact move after high-impact move. It was only the singing of his beautiful valet, Harlequin Melody, that eventually calmed him down. Chaos was very impressive in the ring, Becky. BL: He's not bad, but he's just a kid, and he's green as grass. Once he goes up against some of the more experienced stars in the IIWF, like Tiger Claw, Otto Verhoeven or Lord Byron, you'll see a whole world of difference. TD: You might be right, Becky, but with that wild streak, Chaos isn't one to underestimate. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= "BLITZ LIGHTNING" BOBBY LINCOLN vs. EL SUPER GECKO =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'8.5" HEIGHT 6'1" 347lbs WEIGHT 225lbs Strength, Aerial, Toughness ATTRIBUTES Mat, Technical, Aerial ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Speaking of underestimation, one man who is adamant that he will not be underestimated and looked over here in the IIWF is Bobby Lincoln. Becky, I've been looking over Lincoln's career, both singles and in tag action with brother Todd Franklin as the Universal Powers, and while I must concede that he is a huge powerhouse with a great deal of skill... BL: ...not to mention a mean streak about a mile wide... TD: ...Lincoln is, nonetheless, one of the most self-centred and egotistic wrestlers to hit the IIWF in a long time. There is a certain irony in his campaigning for the arrogant "Showstopper" Simon Lebec to be instated as IIWF President, given that Lebec's unbelievable self-assuredness has been matched only by Lincoln himself. BL: What's your point, Timmy? TD: My point, Becky, is that self-confidence is one thing, particularly when it's backed up with success around the world of wrestling, like Lincoln's undoubtedly is, but in the IIWF, past triumphs mean nothing. If a wrestler walks in here and starts acting like he owns the place, he'll put the suits' backs up, he'll put the other wrestlers' backs up, and life will become very unpleasant for him. However, Lincoln is unrepentant. According to him, there is only one way -- _his_ way -- and he's going to make the IIWF President understand that, even if it means beating it into him: [Cut to the Power Station Gym in Pacific Palisades, California, where Bobby Lincoln is hammering the heavy bag with side roundkicks and spinning back punches. Todd Franklin is finishing a set of curls with 150lbs barbells.] BL: Warnett! [hits bag] We're not done YET! Besides, I will make it a goal to END your CAREER! If you didn't have the President protecting your ass, you would be losing, just like the rest of the people I face. I've held more titles than your AGE, and the President and his sucking staff have to job someone of my calibre. Well, Jack-off Spreadbury, listen up -- I have a video I will be bringing in a few weeks, and after I show this video, if you DON'T give me a title shot or a PUSH, I will do what I do on this tape, TO YOU! Sue me, arrest me, suspend me, NOTHING will stop me from CRIPPLING you, if you don't START paying the [bleep] attention to ME! TF: Finally, they get that GIMP, Shakespeare Thompson to wrestle. Thompson, you're wrestling tonight. Be ready, because we have a present to give you later. BL: Spreadbury, this WILL be YOU! [Lincoln jumping spinkicks the heavy bag, sending the heavy bag flying and crashing partially into the wall, as the bag starts sending sand and filler all over the floor. Cut back to the studio.] TD: I don't know what Lincoln thinks he's doing, but I can tell you one thing: the IIWF President will not react well at all to threats of physical violence from wrestlers under the IIWF's employ. Lincoln had better grow up, and fast, or he might find himself looking for a new job. BL: Give me a break, Timmy -- can't a guy speak his mind round here any more? TD: Of course, but when it comes to threatening top-ranking IIWF officials with grievous bodily harm, the line must be drawn. In any case, folks, Lincoln is stirring up trouble, which is all he wants, so we shall say no more for now. In the ring, there wasn't quite so much to talk about -- Lincoln completely dominated the Gecko, who looked off-form tonight, utilising his high-impact gutbusters and spinebusters to take the wind out of the lizard's sails. In the end, he hit the Lightning Strike for the victory. Lincoln is one angry guy, and his rage showed no sign of subsiding. He played a significant part in proceedings later in the evening, too, but more on that later. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= IIWF Cruiserweight Champion HAKIRO MATSUOKO vs. "HIGH ROLLER" JOHN McCLAIN =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'2" HEIGHT 6'5" 215lbs WEIGHT 240lbs Aerial, Technical, Endurance ATTRIBUTES Toughness, Intelligence, Technical ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Hakiro Matsuoko continues to live more up to the nickname of his nemesis, the "Enigma", than his own, as he defeated "High Roller" John McClain in a defence of his Cruiserweight Championship. However, speculation concerning his allegiance to the Syndicate continues to mount, due to a strange incident in the coure of the match. Let's go over to Larry, who has the details: [Cut to Larry Morton, slightly out of breath and ruffled. He looks over his shoulder, and is unable to see any clowns. He straightens his tie and speaks.] LM: That's right, Tim. During Matsuoko's match against McClain, who continues to look really off-form here, who should come to ringside but Tiger Claw. Everybody expected Claw to interfere on Matsuoko's behalf, and that was at first what he appeared to attempt. Standing by the apron, Claw waited until McClain was whipped into the ropes by the champion, and then attempted to trip him. However, Claw missed with his first attempt, and was gearing up for a second when McClain whipped Matsuoko into the ropes instead. Claw then indiscriminately tripped Hakiro, behind the referee's back, and Hakiro left the ring to brawl with Tiger Claw, the official eventually forcing Claw away from the ring. Matsuoko then got back into the ring, and, despite the distractions, managed to put McClain away with the Butsumetsu Drop. Clearly there are still tensions between Matsuoko and the Syndicate, and I hear from the locker rooms that a match between these two might be close to being signed. [Cut to the studio. Tim and Becky face the television screen, on which Morton can be seen.] TD: Really? A match between Claw and Matsuoko? LM: Apparently so. I believe Lau is campaigning for this match because he sees it as an opportunity to teach Matsuoko the true benefits of being in the Syndicate -- being on the same side as Tiger Claw, and not an opponent. TD: Of course, Claw and Matsuoko have met before in a stellar encounter at the first Ring Wars, when Matsuoko dropped the Intercontinental Championship to Claw. LM: That's right. And one has to admit that, leaving the issue of loyalty aside here, it would be a tremendous rematch. TD: It certainly would. Thanks very much, Larry. LM: My pleasure. [The television screen fades. Tim and Becky face the cameras once more.] TD: Becky, what do you make of the prospect of a rematch between those two incredible athletes? BL: It would be a tremendous match, Timmy, but for now I'm more concerned about when the IIWF front office are going to eject that no-hoper John McClain from the rings. He gets handed a victory on a plate by Tiger Claw, and he's still unable to finish the job. The guy's hopeless. TD: McClain refuses to speak to the IIWF's interviewers, but I've heard that he has lobbied the front office to release him from his contract. Pending legal clearance, McClain may well be on his way out of the IIWF. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= "ENIGMA" TAKEZO MUSASHI vs. ROBSKI =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 5'9" HEIGHT 6'3" 211lbs WEIGHT 320lbs Aerial, Technical, ATTRIBUTES Brawling, Cheating, Intelligence Strength ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Somebody else who is apparently on their way out of the IIWF is the self-proclaimed "English sensation" Robski, although we have yet to hear official confirmation of his decision to leave. He did, however, give the impression tonight that he would rather have been anywhere else than in the ring, and the "Enigma" took him to task for it, finishing things off with the Starsault Press. However, after the match, the Dark Disciples came down with their manager, Don McQueen, who waved the contract papers which hold the "Enigma" under his employ against his will under Musashi's nose. Of course, as soon as Musashi tried to grab them, the Disciples attacked him, and it was only when the White Phoenix made the save that the situation was defused. It's all going to come to a head this Saturday Night, though, when the Phoenix and Musashi team up in a match with Musashi's IIWF career on the line: if he wins, the "Enigma" is freed from the contracts held by McQueen, but if he loses, he's out of the IIWF. BL: So you'd better get used to the idea of never seeing the Starsault Press again, Timmy. Those two runtweights don't stand a chance against the Disciples. They're monsters, and they have the might of the Syndicate behind them. TD: That's true, Becky. It's going to be an incredible match in London this Saturday Night! Let's switch gears for a moment and discuss the fortunes of the Senate, who preempted the IIWF's world tour by laying the foundations for international agreements. Of course, as we reported three weeks ago, the Senator was tragically killed in a plane crash, but the Hangman and the Atomic Destroyers have vowed to continue. Let's hear their latest comments: [Opening graphics: A hangman's noose swinging from side to side. The camera pulls into the centre of the noose and we see The Hangman standing on the Scaffold next to the drop lever.] TH: Good evening to you all out there. As you are all aware, The Senator passed on a few weeks go. The boys and I have just finished putting all of the Senator's affairs in order. We completed all bookings that he had contracted us for. We brought the best and the worst of the IIWF to the world. The IIWF is selling out all over the world on the latest tour. Our work for the promotion and the Senator was a great success. [Camera pulls back so a set of stairs can be seen on the Hangman's left.] TH: The boys and I have been in contact with some of the greatest managers that the sport has to offer, but in the end, and Dross should appreaciate this, the training and guidance by The Senator was all part of the grand plan. The Senator passed on enough knowledge to us that we will not need a manager. We will manage ourselves and our affairs. We also have decided that our team will be just that: a team. [Coming up the stairs are two men dressed in the exact same way as The Hangman. As they approach the Hangman, the three are all so much alike in build and dress that as they move around it is impossible to tell them apart.] TH: IIWF, as you can see, we have become The Hangmen. Our singles matches or our tag matches could have any one of us involved, maybe all of us. To bar one of us from the ring or all of us during matches would be a precedent that the President would have to weigh considerably. Managers are allowed at ringside. We are all wrestlers as well as managers. This is a Corporation and we have only one goal in mind. Make money. To achieve this goal we have to be the best. To be the best we have to not only beat but eliminate the best. [The Hangman reaches towards the handle and pulls it slowly as the camera swings to a figure that has the noose around his neck. As the camera goes black we see the figure's feet kicking wildly. Cut back to the studio.] TD: Those men never fail to send a chill down my spine, Becky. BL: I don't think black suits them, Timmy. Shame, that. TD: I understand that the Hangmen will be returning to the IIWF within the next four weeks. By the sounds of things, both the singles and tag team divisions had better be on their guard. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= G.W.R.: The Dark Disciples: LOCO & SPOILER vs. KANE & WULF =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 5'10" 5'11" HEIGHT 6'6" 6'4" 305lbs 240lbs WEIGHT 269lbs 346lbs Strength Endurance ATTRIBUTES Cheating Brawling Brawling Intelligence Intelligence Strength Teamwork Teamwork Teamwork Teamwork ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: The Armed Forces interjected themselves in this match, proving that as far as they're concerned, turnabout is fair play. You'll remember that G.W.R. were responsible for the Forces losing their big match with the High Plains Drifters on Saturday Night to determine #1 contenders to Rising Sun Revolution's IIWF World Tag Team Championship -- and that match between the Drifters and RSR will take place live in London on Saturday Night -- and the Forces tonight came down to the ring and distracted Loco and Spoiler sufficiently for Kane and Wulf to really do a number on them, jumping them from behind and hitting the Darkmoon Deathdrop for the victory. The Disciples are also going into a big match this Saturday, as they face the tandem of Takezo Musashi and the White Phoenix, and they've never looked more dangerous. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Alphabet Boys: Zodiac Connection: ABIE & ZED vs. SCORPIO & TAURUS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'7" 6'4" HEIGHT 6'1" 6'8" 300lbs 289lbs WEIGHT 225lbs 350lbs Strength Cheating ATTRIBUTES Endurance Brawling Brawling Brawling Aerial Strength Cheating Strength Teamwork Teamwork ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: There was other tag team action as the unpredictable Alphabet Boys bested the Zodiac Connection. Abie and Zed came to the ring through the crowd, and managed to find a character who can only be described as a fanatic Alphabet Boys fan, who they brought to ringside to be their corner man. Let's go to Larry for the details. [Becky and Tim turn to the television screen, on which Larry appears.] LM: That's right, Tim. This individual looked so similar to his heroes that he could have been the third Alphabet Boy. Dressed in exactly the same way, this young man was clutching a bag of sugar, which was quite enough to make friends for life in Abie and Zed in any case. The Zodiac Connection seemed unsettled by the presence of a lookalike -- and act-alike -- at ringside, and the unorthodox ABoys eventually scored the victory with their double running clothesline finisher. [Cut back to the studio.] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= ONSLAUGHT vs. CASEY "BLACKHEART" JAMES =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'1" HEIGHT 6'6" 229lbs WEIGHT 320lbs Aerial, Technical, ATTRIBUTES Brawling, Strength, Endurance Mat ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Casey James has been living up to his moniker in recent weeks, really showing his true colours since his assault on former stablemate, Joe Latta. Now, of course, James has turned his attention to the IIWF World Heavyweight Champion, Dan Kauffman, whom he is stalking... BL: [interrupting] Stalking? Casey's just keeping an eye on Kauffman, making sure nothing _nasty_ happens to him. TD: Of course he is, Becky. Casey came down to the ring along with Brian Lau and Mr. Kobiashi, who stuffed a cheque into the lapel pocket of the Syndicate's manager as they approached the ring. Casey took to the ring with his usual power offense, but his heart didn't seem to be in the match. BL: I'll tell you why that is, Timmy -- he was getting paid to do a job, rather than do it for fun. TD: Only a sadist enjoys beating up on other people, Becky. Onslaught, however, seemed more distracted by the presence of Mr. Kobiashi at ringside, and his preoccupation allowed Casey to capitalise. Kobiashi taunted Onslaught from the outside, and Casey had no compassion whatsoever, catching Onslaught from behind, then turning him around and administering the Blackheart Punch and the Black Death spinebuster for the pinfall victory. After the match, Kobiashi stood over the stunned form of Onslaught and stuffed a banknote in his mouth. This man disgusts me, Becky. BL: He's not much of a looker, but he does have money. TD: Is that all you ever think about? BL: What else is there? TD: [sighs] The situation between Onslaught and Mr. Kobiashi will come to a head in the near future, folks. For now, however, we must move on. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= OTTO "THE BUTCHER" VERHOEVEN vs. HARLEQUIN TRAGEDY =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'8" HEIGHT 5'10" 340lbs WEIGHT 220lbs Strength, Brawling ATTRIBUTES Technical, Endurance, Cheating Aerial ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: This always looked like a real mismatch on paper, and Tragedy by and large found himself coming up short -- literally -- against the huge German juggernaut. However, the former IIWF Champion wasn't able to capitalise on his size advantage to the fullest extent, because Tragedy utilised his speed and stamina to outpace the Teutonic terror. With his unbalanced brother Chaos, along with Melody and Comedy, at ringside, outside interference at least seemed unlikely, but nonetheless the match came to a premature end when the Sandman walked down the aisle, and without so much as a pause, proceeded to throw dust in the eyes of Tragedy, temporarily blinding him. The referee immediately signalled for the disqualification, but Verhoeven took out his frustrations on the helpless Harlequin, prompting Chaos to take to the ring to save his brother, allowing the Sandman to make a quick exit. BL: Are we going to see a return to the Sandman of old? He spoke to Larry in the locker room after the attack, and this is what he had to say: [Cut to Larry Morton standing with the Sandman in the locker room.] TS: I've had it! I have seen enough! The darkness once brought death and the light brought legions, but only I remain. With that in mind, I will claim no alliegance to either side. I have open contracts and I'm leaving my services open to those who want to enlist them. Those who want to fight, sign the dotted line, those who want my services, make me an offer... [The Sandman looks darkly at Morton, and walks out of the shot. Cut back to the studio.] TD: I think the Sandman was sending out a strong message to everybody here in the IIWF tonight, Becky. All his previous partners have fallen by the wayside, and perhaps he has now realised that to make headway in the IIWF, one can only rely on oneself. BL: What a maverick attitude, Timmy. You surprise me. TD: I just tell things the way I see them. Let's move on. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= IIWF Intercontinental Champion "SPOTLIGHT" BILLY SHAKESPEARE vs. "LONE WOLF" BRODY THUNDER =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'2" HEIGHT 6'2" 230lbs WEIGHT 267lbs Aerial, Technical ATTRIBUTES Intelligence, Endurance, Endurance Technical ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Before we can discuss this match, I must first report an encounter I had with "Painbringer" Billy Sexton earlier today. Mr. Sexton continues to come up with so-called "evidence" for a conspiracy being in place here in the IIWF to keep him away from the gold. Billy Shakespeare, IIWF President Dan Spreadbury, Special Concerns Committee head Poutine Janois, and various referees and timekeepers have so far had the finger pointed in their direction; I've got to wonder, folks, where this conspiracy is going to stop. In any case, Mr. Sexton brought with him a video cassette, which I played in his presence. Let's go to that footage: [Cut to pretaped footage of Dross and Sexton in the studio. It is still light outside. The two men are watching the large television set, which shows home video footage Billy Shakespeare working out in his back yard in Ashland, Oregon. The date shown on the screen is "11/28/96", just two days before his match with Sexton. The footage appears to show Billy working out without any difficulty. Sexton is clearly agitated, and shouts:] BS: You see that right there, baby? Shakespeare's faking it! I know it, you know it, the whole world knows it. Shakespeare doesn't want to lose his title so he's faking an injury. Well, baby, if that's the way he wants it. I'm going to give him a real injury, BABY! [Cut back to live footage of the studio.] TD: Folks, I'd just like to state that I've spoken with Billy Shakespeare, and I have seen the bruising on his ribs. I can't explain this cassette, but I know that Billy isn't faking his injury. BL: You have such faith in little Willie, Timmy. But it's misplaced. TD: Becky, how easy would it be to find some old tape of Shakespeare working out and superimpose a new date on it? BL: Pretty easy. TD: Well, there you go then. Until I see concrete proof of this conspiracy, I shall not believe Billy Sexton. And there was plenty of evidence in tonight's match that Shakespeare most certainly is not faking his injuries. Before we discuss those events, however, let's go to some pretaped comments from his opponent, the promising newcomer "Lone Wolf" Brody Thunder: [Cut to an empty arena. In the wide angle shot of the seats we can see a figure sitting about 50 rows up from the arena floor with his feet on the seat in front of him. As the camera slowlys pans in on him, the figure speaks...] "Fame. It's been said that everyone gets an opportunity for fifteen minutes of it in their lifetime. Others seize the opportunity by the neck an' turn it INTO a lifetime. They're called winners. [The camera slowly pans in...] "Yer lookin' at the man who plans on stayin' just that... a winner. This Wednesday night I'm fixin' to give one Mr Billy Shakespeare the wrestlin' lesson o' his life. I have watched yer career since I arrived here in the IIWF. You are tough... no doubt 'bout it. But I also know that yer not exactly 100 percent. Them ribs sure hurt don't they, Billy? An' I also know that because of some political strings you got pulled around here that you managed to have this match declared a non-title match. S'okay. The way I look at this deal is as a win-win situation. [Brody Thunder lights up a cigar. He blows a few smoke rings into the air, smiles and then begins again...] "Y'see, when I beat you... and I WILL beat you, son... that gives me a little leverage against el Presidente Spreadbury on gettin' a title shot. An' then he won't be able to protect his precious Intercontinental strap from bein' put around my waist. It's gonna happen... that's a fact. There's someone else I wanna say somethin' to. That's the so-called Syndicate. You boys got a problem with ol' Billy-boy that's between you an' him. Work it out on yer time. You guys stick yer nose in MY match with him, then it becomes MY problem. An' I have a pretty effective way o' solvin' my problems... [Brody picks up his leather strap from the seat beside him and snaps it between his hands.] "...comprende, amigos? This is MY shot. I aim to make it count. Shakespeare... I ain't talkin' to hear myself, son. Wednesday night when you step through those ropes yer gonna stand across the ring from the toughest man you've ever faced. That's not braggin' m'man... that's the flamin' truth. [An arena attendant comes over and politely informs Mr Thunder about the 'No Smoking' policy. Brody stands up almost ignoring the man..] "I am the best there is at what I do. Now I know some johnny-come-latelys may steal that line but I back it up in the ring where it counts. Yer about to enter my game now. An' you can't be the dealer... [Brody drops the cigar on the floor right at the feet of the attendant without looking at him or missing a beat. The attendant gives him a look of disdain as he sweeps up the cigar.] "...unless yer holdin' ALL the cards. See ya Wednesday night, Billy-boy. HEY.. [Brody points at the floor] ...ya missed a spot. [Brody laughs and walks away. The attendant sweeps the spot with a look of disgust. As the camera fades to black,a clap of thunder is heard and the following familiar insignia appears on the blackened screen....] /\______________/\ /XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX/ /XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX/ \/====/XXXX/====\/ /XXXX/_ /XXXXXX/ ==XXXX/_ /XXXXX/ ==XXX/ lX/ l/ [Cut back to the studio.] TD: Thunder made short work of the injured Shakespeare in the match, although he didn't get a chance to finish things off thanks to the interference of the Universal Powers, who ran to the ring and attacked both combatants, thus ending the match in a no contest. Lincoln and Franklin decimated Shakespeare with their high-impact offensive, surely exacerbating his injuries further, but they were stopped in their tracks by a furious Brody Thunder, who did not appreciate the interference, and a massive brawl broke out between Thunder and the Powers, which at least drew the fire away from Shakespeare. BL: Thunder and the Universal Powers should be on the same side, not fighting one another. TD: You heard Thunder yourself, Becky -- anybody who interferes in one of his matches becomes his problem, and the Powers just made themselves Thunder's problem in a big way. Folks, we must move on, but we'll have an update on Shakespeare's condition in Friday's report. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Rising Sun Revolution & Domination vs. Heavy Metal & Arabian Knights -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= TD: This match was scheduled to take place on Saturday Night in Mexico City, but as we all know, there was a customs problem with the Arabian Knights and they were refused entry to the country. However, there were no such problems tonight here in Paris. Let's go to the action in that match, called by "Soundbite" Steve Roberts and Larry Morton. The four teams are already in the ring: [Mr. Psycho of Domination and Prince Abdul Akbar of The Arabian Knights start it off, as Psycho quickly charges Akbar with hard left and right forearm smashes to the skull, driving him to one knee. Psycho takes him over with a snap suplex, and drops an elbow along his throat. Akbar works his way up to his hands and knees as Psycho tags in Monster and both men start to go to work with double axehandle chops on Akbar's back, driving him into the mat. Monster grabs Akbar and chokeslams him down, then tags back out to Mr. Psycho, who grabs Akbar and whips him to the ropes, nailing him with a kick to the midsection, and then attempting a power bomb, but getting backdropped by Akbar instead. Akbar tries to crawl to his corner, but Psycho grabs his ankle and drags him back to the middle of the ring, locking on a half crab.] LM: So far it's been Domination living up to their name, as they've dominated Akbar of The Arabian Knights! SR: Not for long, Morton. Soon as Omar gets in there, the tables will turn! [Akbar reaches the ropes after some degree of difficulty, and Mr. Psycho backs off, allowing Akbar to haul off with a low blow out of nowhere, doubling Psycho up, and allowing Akbar to crawl across the ring and tag in Omar.] SR: Here he comes! [Omar walks across the ring and grabs Mr. Psycho by the neck... big chokeslam by Omar! Omar whips him to the ropes, and on the bounce Psycho tagged in to Monster! Omar didn't notice that and he meets Psycho with a big kick to the midsection and sets him up for a power bomb... but Monster sends Omar sprawling with a big clothesline, as Mr. Psycho slides out of the ring!] LM: The two big men are in there now! This is gonna be a donnybrook! SR: It'll be a pretty good brawl too! LM: [sighs] [Omar gets back to his feet, and he and Monster staredown! They trade shots back and forth, as Monster looks to get the advantage, blocking a right hand and sending three hard shots back at Omar. He whips Omar to the corner and charges in with an avalanche, and Omar staggers out into the center of the ring, as Monster gets on to the second rope and flies off with a flying lariat to the back of Omar's head, sending him flat on his face! Monster grabs Omar... and does a devestating SuperFaceSlam right onto the turnbuckle! Big crowd pop!] SR: That's cheating, Morton! LM: That's called a snake eyes, Steve... [Monster tags to Mr. Psycho, as Omar gets over to Atlas Steele of Heavy Metal, and both Mr. Psycho and Monster enter the ring, and whip Steele to the ropes and meet him with a double clothesline. Monster exits the ring, and Mr. Psycho starts stomping away on Omar...] LM: I've noticed that Domination have yet to tag in to Rising Sun Revolution, and the champs don't look too happy about it. SR: I'm surprised the ring has room for the egos of Rising Sun Revolution and Domination anyway, Morton. [Mr. Psycho grabs Atlas up to this feet and hooks him in a headlock. He brings him over to the his corner and tags out to Hiroshi Kasai, who flies in the ring with a double axehandle to Atlas Steele's prone back. Mr. Psycho leaves the ring, as Kasai gives him a kind of glare as he starts chopping at Atlas's chest. He whips Atlas to the ropes and nails him with a spinwheel kick! Kasai tags in Kenjinata and they nail Atlas with a double side Russian leg sweep. They both go up on the top rope in opposite corners... double flying fistdrop! Kasai leaves the ring, as Kenjinata goes up top again... and flies off with a somersault legdrop and hooks the leg... 1 - 2 - 3!] LM: Well, Rising Sun Revolution and Domination have done it... although they weren't exactly working like a well oiled machine. SR: Neither team looks really happy with the win either, Morton. Can these guys get any more arrogant? [Cut back to the studio.] TD: Steve might have a point there, Becky... BL: Makes a change. Hehehehe... snort. TD: Relations between the tag champs and Domination might well be growing somewhat strained. Domination went on record as stating that without them, Rising Sun Revolution would no longer be holding the titles, and as you would imagine, those sentiments are certainly not shared by the Demon and the Dragon. Although outwardly both teams remain civil with one another, it seems that each partnership believe that they are superior to the other. Mr. Psycho would only tag in Monster, and vice versa, while Ryudu would only tag Hiroshi, and vice versa. I may be overstating the case here right now, but somewhere down the line, tensions are going to reach breaking point. BL: Ooh, you stirrer, Timmy. TD: I'm not done yet, Becky. I also hear talk that Robo Stone may be withdrawing his men from the IIWF in the very near future, and in fact, tonight's match may have been the last appearance to be made by Heavy Metal. I haven't got any confirmation at this stage, but I am hoping that the front office will make an announcement this Friday. Speaking of announcements, let's go to the offices of the IIWF President for the latest announcements concerning IIWF Snow Brawl, which is coming your way in just over two weeks! [Cut to pretaped footage of the IIWF President, Dan Spreadbury, seated in his office.] DS: I am here tonight to announce more matches for the IIWF's next pay-per-view spectacular, which is only just over two weeks away. As already announced, the Free For All will include an over-the-top-rope tag team battle royal to determine #1 contenders to the IIWF World Tag Team Championships, but I can also now announce that the Free For All will host two other matches. Firstly, two potential newcomers to the IIWF, one "Real Deal" Luke Steele, and "Jackhammer" J.P. Steele -- no relation, I hasten to add -- will square off, with the victor being granted an IIWF contract, and the loser having to leave the federation. The other match will be a special Valets Match between Nurse Heidi and Mistress Sasha, for which their respective charges, Otto Verhoeven and the Subway Psycho, will be suspended in cages above the ring. I will be announcing the challengers to the IIWF's championships on Saturday Night, but for now, here are four more names entered into the Lethal Lottery draw: Subway Psycho; Harlequin Chaos; and two newcomers to the IIWF, Mad Dog Watkins, and Creed. That's all for now -- more names on Saturday Night. Thankyou for your time. [Cut back to the studio.] TD: So there you have it, folks. More matches announced for Snow Brawl. What an event that's shaping up to be! Call your local cable operator now to make sure you don't miss any of the action! We're out of time for tonight here in Paris, but Larry and Becky will be back on Friday for another Countdown to Saturday Night, and on Saturday itself, Steve and myself will bring you all the action live from the Royal Albert Hall, London, England, with some superb matches in store, including Marty Warnett battling Lord Byron in an all-British main event! For now, though, this is Tim Dross, for Becky LaRue, saying: so long, everybody! [The shot pulls back as the lights in the studio dim, and Dross shuffles the papers on his desk, while Becky appears to be slightly agitated about not being able to say "Nighty-night." 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 -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=+