[Fade up on footage shot by a hand-held camera, subtitled "Earlier Tonight." The cameraman runs down a hallway, a door is reached, and the cameraman goes through it, exiting to the parking lot. The cameraman catches the entire Syndicate beating on Ned Norton and El Super Gecko. Casey holds Gecko while Tiger Claw labels him with some round kicks, and Wulf gnaws on Norton's head while Kane kicks him in the gut. Brian Lau and Don McQueen stand back and cheer their men on.] BL: Yes! That's it! Punish them! [Claw gives a final kick to Gecko, and Casey spins him around and hits a spinebuster onto the concrete floor.] BL: You! With the camera! Come here! We've got some things to say! [The cameraman comes closer, and the Syndicate all stand in the shot.] BL: As if we haven't proven our superiority already... First the Dark Disciples dominate every tag team contender in the IIWF to get a shot, and then Casey defeats everyone in the Lethal Lottery to get a shot at Kauffman. Wait... Can you hear that? That's the sound of opportunity knocking! Soon, half of all the titles will be in the possesion of Syndicate members. It could have been three quarters, but Musashi continued on his cheating ways to steal the Cruiserweight Title. That's something we'll have to remedy in the future, but for now, Tiger Claw is a little upset. He's going to need someone to beat up! [Tiger Claw sneers, and lays a kick into Gecko, who whimpers through his mask.] BL: But the one thing I am most proud of is Casey's victory. Casey, in the time you've been a member of the Syndicate, you've progressed so much that I can hardly believe it. CJ: I've had the best teachers in the world, Brian. How can anyone expect less of me when I'm being guided by some of the most devious minds in the IIWF, and some of the most intense atheletes in the world? I'm going to meet Kauffman on the fourth, but for some reason that's not good enough. I want the belt, but I really want to do a number on Dan at the same time. I'm worried about being disqualified. BL: Worry no more, Casey. I've started negotiations with the championship committee to get your match booked as a no DQ, no countout affair. [Casey's eyes light up.] CJ: Oh, joy of joys... Dan, did you hear that? There's only going to be one reason a referee is going to be in the building for our match, and that's to count your shoulders down for the three count. Dan, I suggest you take advantage of this as much as I do, because I'm looking for the match of the century. Of course, your morals may hold you back... You're a nice guy, see? And you know what they say... Nice guys finish last. This will be no different, Dan... But don't give up. I want to work for that title. Maybe you need an incentive? Maybe if I were to tell you something that would just set you off... Dan, have you been wondering where your best friend is? No, I'm not talking about Joe Latta... I've already finished him... I'm not talking about Brandon Bennett... He's not worth any more of my time. I'm not talking about Quigley... From the looks of it, he's looking to beat on you as well... No, I'm talking about Bosco. [The Syndicate looks at each other, confused.] BL: Bosco? [Casey pulls out a dog collar.] CJ: Bosco... Dan's dog... he's been missing from the Kauffman home for a while... But I know where he is... Dan, this just _has_ to set you off! Collect that anger and hatred for me together and bring it to the ring, little Khaos... As Tim Dross might say, we're gearing up for a slobberknocker. BL: It all comes together here... I want... [Suddenly a black and red Jeep Ranch Cherokee pulls up and screeches to a halt just behind the interview set. The door opens and Brody Thunder steps out and starts walking towards James.] BT: They said you'd be here, ya flamin' backstabber! CJ: Come and get some, puppy... Here, puppy! BT: You better fergit 'bout gettin' to that pencil-neck Kaufman cuz I'm gonna wring YER stinkin' neck right now! [Thunder lunges at James only to be rebuffed by Kane and Wulf. As they hold Thunder back James offers the opportunity to Tiger Claw. Claw smiles broadly, then grabs a chair and hoists it over his head.] BT: Ya better make it a good one son! [Claw then waffles Thunder with metal chair. Thunder collapses as if he'd been shot. Laughter is heard from the Syndicate members. Thunder slowly tries to get off the ground. As he gets to his knees Claw potatoes him with another chairshot. Down goes Thunder again. More laughter. Thunder tries to sit up but falls back down. The Dark Disciples and Casey then hoist Thunder up and take him to his Ranch Cherokee. Once there, they throw him through the windshield. Thunder is now motionless. Throughout this incident a voice is heard saying "Are you getting all this?!" and "Are you still rolling?"] CJ: What's the last thing that goes through a bug's mind as he hits a windshield? That's right, his ass! That's all you are, Thunder, an insect! I had your number from day one! I'm smarter than you, I'm tougher than you, and _I'M_ going to be the next IIWF champ! Tiger Claw, man... He's yours... You want him? TC: Sure... I need a warmup. He's not really that tough, though. CJ: [laughing] You got that right! [Turns to the camera] Kauffman? Can you take a beating like that? I hope so, because if you can't, you're going to be sharing a room with Joe Latta! BL: I hear pine boxes are cheap these days! [The entire Syndicate begin to walk off the scene, celebrating their little victory. The camera cuts out as the voice says "Man, this is going to win me a Golden Grapple Award for sure!" The opening graphics explode onto the screen:] ##### ###### ### ########## ########## ########## #### ## ########## ########## ########## #### # #### ######## ##### ##### #### ## ##### #### #### #### #### ### #### #### #### #### ############# ######### #### #### ########### ######### #### #### #### #### #### ######### ######### ### #### #### ######### ######### ### ## #### ######## ######## ## # #### =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ## =-=-=-= INTERNATIONAL INTERNET WRESTLING FEDERATION =============================================== W + E + D + N + E + S + D + A + Y W + A + R R + O + O + M ----------------------------------------------- + 1 January 1997 + [Fade up on a darkened studio: two figures are seated at a large, curved desk, behind which there is a video wall. The IIWF logo fades onto the video wall as the lights rise, revealing the figures to be Tim Dross and Becky LaRue, who has her head in her hands and is wearing sunglasses. She flinches as the lights rise. Dross finishes shuffling papers on his desk, and looks up at the camera.] TD: Happy New Year, folks, and welcome to IIWF Wednesday War Room! I'm Tim Dross, and alongside me is the lovely -- but hungover -- Becky LaRue. It must have been some New Year's party, since she only made it to the studio less than twenty minutes ago. BL: Don't push me, Timmy. I'm not in the mood to be messed with. TD: That doesn't surprise me at all, Becky. The same could certainly be said for the Syndicate, as we saw at the top of the hour. That attack on "Lone Wolf" Brody Thunder took place just less than an hour ago, after the last match in the Coliseum tonight. A medical team was quickly on the scene, and it transpires that Thunder refused treatment. Amazingly, he sustained only superficial injuries, although he has suffered some serious bruising as a result of the Syndicate's onslaught. BL: That Brody Thunder is a tough nut to crack. TD: You can say that again. I understand that Thunder will not miss any appearances in the rings despite his minor injuries, and he will be back in the Coliseum on Saturday Night to face the "Real Deal" Luke Steele. The superstars of the IIWF are in no mood to be messed with in the aftermath of Snow Brawl, which went down some ten days ago. All eyes are now turned to this Saturday night's live event, at which all four of the IIWF's Champions will be in action. We'll be talking a whole lot more about that spectacular card later in this hour, but we'll also be taking a look at the results of tonight's show, which went down in the IIWF Coliseum. A number of the IIWF's premier athletes are currently touring in Japan, but there's no shortage of action here in the States for us to discuss: [On the video wall, the IIWF logo spins into the corner of the screen, and various clips from the night's action roll: Ronnie Paris ducks under a clothesline from Mad Dog Watkins, and fires back with a dropkick of his own.] We'll find out how the rookie Ronnie Paris fared against the undefeated cagey veteran, Mad Dog Watkins. [Footage of The Hangman chokeslamming Mr. Damage is shown.] Did Mr. Damage get strung up by the Hangman? [Footage of Otto Verhoeven and the Sandman getting in each other's face rolls.] We'll find out just how well the Butcher and the Sandman were able to work together when they went up against the Harlequins. [Footage of Chris Quigley standing beside Tim Dross in the middle of the ring rolls.] We'll hear what "Quickstrike" Chris Quigley has to say about his role in the events at Snow Brawl... [The IIWF logo spins back into the centre of the screen.] ...and we'll also have details of matches involving Marty Warnett, "Badboy" Randy Acorn, Pain Inc., Cheshire, and the Players' Club. We were scheduled to be joined by "Soundbite" Steve Roberts in the Coliseum tonight, but for some reason, Steve has failed to appear. Instead, our field reporter tonight will be Larry Morton. [Tim and Becky turn to face the video wall, on which appears the image of Larry Morton standing by the empty ring in the deserted Coliseum.] LM: Good evening, folks. I'll be bringing you updates here from the Coliseum itself over the course of the hour... and after the time I've had tonight, I can understand why Steve Roberts decided to stay at home. BL: Aw, poor widdle Lawwy. TD: Please, Becky. We'll come back to you later, Larry. [The IIWF logo once again fades onto the video wall. Tim and Becky turn back to face the cameras.] TD: But before all that, let's go straight to footage of a bizarre incident which occurred before the action got underway tonight in the Coliseum. The "CEO" Jack Montgomery and Creed made an unscheduled appearance in the ring -- take a look: [Cut to footage subtitled, "Earlier Tonight." The lights drop in the arena and the increasingly familiar, "Anyone, anywhere, anytime" resonates throughout the building. Led by "The CEO", Creed enters with gloved hand aloft, bathed in a red spotlight. The crowd reaction is still mixed, but there is some noticeable heel respect following Creed's performance at Snow Brawl. The CEO and Creed step into the ring, and Montgomery takes the ring mic:] CEO: I knew a man once... loved him like a brother... maybe because we had the same parents. He gave me my first job when I was six years old, took me to school for a month when I wouldn't ride the bus. He introduced me to my first girlfriend. A few years ago, that man was working for me in the Corporation and was put in charge of a very important acquisition. It was a difficult job -- and he was unable to do it. He made a mistake and cost the Corporation a good deal of money. So, I did what I had to do. I fired my brother. Dropped him like a counterfeit quarter. I haven't seen him since. You see, in the Corporation, mistakes are accounted for -- and if you make one, you pay the consequences. At Snow Brawl, the fans of the IIWF got another glimpse of the man who will dominate professional wrestling into the next millenium. You all saw Creed stand toe to toe with two of the toughest men in the world today... [The video wall at the head of the aisle shows Creed's multiple near falls against Otto Verhoeven, and Creed hurling new IC champ Steve Kowalski into the steel steps.] ...and there is no doubt who the best man was in that ring on December 21. No doubt that if it hadn't been for the mistakes made by two men, Creed would have advanced to the Battle Royal and on to his first title shot. Well, Sandman, you were one of those men who made a mistake that night. All you had to do in the world was occupy an official for five seconds and you would have advanced on Creed's coattails. Five seconds, Sandman. I thought even you could handle a job that simple. But you couldn't -- and at Snow Brawl, you found out just how we deal with mistakes. [The video wall shows Creed pummelling Sandman on the floor following their disqualification at Snow Brawl.] The other man who made a mistake, the man who will pay for it right here and now, was me. [The video wall shows The CEO throwing powder in Verhoeven's face. Cut back to the ring, where Montgomery has dropped the microphone and stands in front of Creed, his arms outstretched at his sides. The crowd's loud murmur turns into an astonished gasp as Creed approaches The CEO and delivers a crackling right-handed slap to his manager's face. Montgomery drops to the mat as Creed momentarily lingers over him. Creed then backs off and The CEO rises, his blue eyes dancing wildly as he raises the microphone to his now lightly blooded lips.] CEO: Sandman! Sandman! That's how we deal with mistakes in the Corporation. If you ever put your hands on me again, it will be the biggest mistake of your life. [Montgomery exits as Creed remains in the ring, his left arm dangling at his side, red glove twitching as he awaits seemingly anyone to step into the ring. Cut back to the studio.] TD: I may not agree entirely with the actions of the CEO and the Corporation, but there's no disputing that Montgomery lives by the sword, and is prepared to die by the sword. I wouldn't want to be the Sandman when that gloved left hand is raised at him. What do you say, Becky? [pause] Becky? [Becky has her head on her hands, and her eyes are obscured behind her dark shades. She lets out a slight snort.] TD: Can somebody get her a cup of coffee? Okay, folks, without further ado, let's get to the recap of tonight's action. [The video wall behind the desk shows images of the wrestlers in each match, along with their stats:] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= The Players' Club: The Rotundos: DYNAMITE & REYNA vs. ROTUNDO #1 ROTUNDO #2 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 5'11" 6' HEIGHT 6'4" 6'3" 235lbs 235lbs WEIGHT 530lbs 550lbs Endurance Intelligence ATTRIBUTES Obesity Obesity Aerial Technical Brawling Brawling Teamwork Teamwork Teamwork Teamwork ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: The Players' Club have been the picture of determination recently here in the IIWF, and I think we're finally beginning to see just what they're capable of. Their strong performance in the tag team battle royal at Snow Brawl suggests that they could be title contenders before too long -- that's if they don't get too caught up with Pain Inc. in the meantime. Dynamite and Reyna were scouted from the aisle in their match tonight by Mr. Mic and Hades, and the spectators couldn't have failed to be impressed by the high-impact, high-flying offense of the Players' Club. BL: Snort. TD: Charming. The end came when the Players' Club performed a modified version of their Heartbreaker finisher on the Rotundos. Reyna was unable to perform a tilt-a-whirl suplex on his huge opponent, but he took him down instead with a tremendous enzuigiri, and Dynamite's legdrop from the top rope was hit with pinpoint accuracy and deadly force. An easy pinfall victory for the Players' Club. [WINNERS: The Players' Club by pinfall in 3:56.] TD: Before we go to our next match, let's think back to one of the great encounters that went down on the Free For All at Snow Brawl ten days ago. One of the most fiercely-contested matches in recent IIWF history saw two rookie hopefuls, "Real Deal" Luke Steele and "Jackhammer" J.P. Steele, battle it out for an IIWF contract. In the final analysis, Luke Steele pulled the rabbit out of the hat, but both men competed admirably. Let's hear from both of them now, starting with the noble loser, the "Jackhammer": [Cut to footage subtitled, "Last Week": a training facility in River Valley, suburban Detroit. Sat in the corner watching a tape of his Contract match with Luke Steele, J.P. Steele watches intently. He winces as he sees himself missing with the springboard spin wheel kick, and then shakes his head with a sad sigh as he watches the end, in which he is pinned. J.P. freezes the screen on the shot of Luke, pen in hand, signing a contract.] JP: That could of been me... [sighs] what a pity. As someone famous once said, "'Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all." For me, it was better to have wrestled just this once here, than never at all. Luke, let me tell you it was a privilege to face you, and best of luck in IIWF. But another thing I'd like to remind you all in TV land is this: the stipulation was the winner to receive an immediate contract. It never said the loser would _never_ get one, just not then. I think you catch my drift. Because if anyone thinks I'm just going to forget about my dream of wrestling for the best fedaration on this planet, don't count on it. It may not be for a couple of months, but sooner or later the IIWF's going to decide to raid that talent pool again, and I have a good impression I'm closer to the top of their lists than the bottom. From my talks with the top brass, it appears I have a good chance of _eventually_ wrestling here. Seems it's just a matter of time. I guess I'll just have to play the waiting game some more. I can live with that. To wrestle in the same organazation as Dan Kauffman, Chris Quigley, Serge Annis, Deathbringer, and the rest is a dream come true. And you know what? Sometimes, if you're patient, if you wish hard enough, if you want it bad enough, somewhere... sometime... your dreams do come true. IIWF, this may be the last time you hear my name or see my face, but believe me, if there is a wrestling god, the "Jackhammer" will wrestle here, somewhere... sometime. It may not be today, tomorrow, this week or the week after. It may not be this month, or the next. But before it's all said and done, J.P. Steele _will_ make his mark on the IIWF, I promise you that! [Steele re-starts the tape, and with a sad sigh of his head continiues to watch as Luke Steele pens the contract to a large pop. J.P. turns it off with a flip of the switch, pivots in his seat to face the camera and mouths the words "I will be back." Cut back to the studio.] BL: The only mark that loser made on the IIWF was the imprint of his shoulders on the canvas for the three count. TD: That's not nice, Becky. Men like J.P. Steele have a lot to offer the IIWF, and we could well see him compete here again in the future. We won't have to wait very long to see the "Real Deal" in action, however, as he takes to the ring again this Saturday Night. For now, though, let's go back to the night of Snow Brawl to get the victor's comments: [Cut to footage subtitled, "December 21": a locker room in the US Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska. Luke Steele is a mere four hours removed from his battle with J.P. Steele in the "Winner Gets A Contract" match. He is decked out in a pair of blue jeans, red IIWF sweatshirt, and a black baseball cap. Behind him on the wall is a winter parka, and a pair of thick gloves with flip down-cover over the fingers.] LS: Hello IIWF faithful. It's me again, the newest entry into the Double I, Double U, F. I went out there tonight and proved why I came here, to be the best. J.P., I have to hand it to you. You had me worried there for a few moments in that match. But I managed to pull it off, and show everyone the Real Deal Press. J.P., don't feel bad. It had to be one of us, and that's a shame. I think we put on a hell of a show for all these fans, and the IIWF should find a way to bring you in too. What a night of action... every champion lost tonight. New Cruiserweight and Intercontinental Champions, and two DQs by the World and Tag champions. Wow. All I can say is I'm glad to finally be aboard, and look out IIWF, 'cause you're all gonna learn why I am the Real Deal. Real Deal, baby doll, all the way. And now if you'll excuse me, I have a dogsled to catch. [Fade out slowly as Steele puts on the parka, gloves, and finally heads out the door. Cut back to the studio.] BL: I'm beginning to think I was a little hasty in calling Luke Steele cute. The guy's about as interesting as a night in bed with Larry Morton. TD: I wouldn't know, Becky. Steele is more than capable of doing his talking in the ring, and I, for one, am looking forward to seeing him in action again this weekend. Now let's move on and discuss more action that went down in the Coliseum tonight: =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= The Hangmen: Pain Inc.: HANGMAN #1 & HANGMAN #2 vs. MORNINGSTAR HELLRAISER =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 360lbs 355lbs HEIGHT 280lbs 305lbs 7' 6'11" WEIGHT 6'4" 6'5" Mat Mat ATTRIBUTES Endurance Teamwork Strength Strength Aerial Strength Technical Brawling Teamwork Brawling ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Having scouted the Players' Club earlier in the evening, Mr. Mic and Hades brought their men, Pain Inc., out for a hard-fought match with the Hangmen. Both teams have recently returned from sabbaticals, and have found themselves thrown right back into the fray. Let's go to comments made by Mr. Mic as he reflected on Snow Brawl last week in his palatial home: [Cut to footage subtitled, "Last Week." A long-distance shot of a huge mansion and what looks like two men near the pool. As the shot pans in, scenes from Snow Brawl appear on the screen: firstly, Morningstar and Omar of the Arabian Knights knocking someone out of the ring. The shot continues to close in; one of the men is talking on a cellular phone and the other is working on a portable computer. Further footage from Snow Brawl shows Morningstar fighting with one of the Players' Club. Cut back to poolside, where the identity of the two men is revealed: the man on the cellular phone is Mr.Mic, the gentlemen using the computer is Hades. Pain Inc. is nowhere to be seen. They both look up to the camera as the final scene from Snow Brawl is shown: Dan Kauffman distracting Morningstar as he is knocked out over the top rope. Cut to Mr.Mic and Hades.] Mr.Mic: [with a very cold, stern look on his face] Well, Hades, it seems that Snow Brawl didn't turn out as planned! Hades: [still pounding away on the computer, looks up, and in a seething voice] Sir, only because of that low-class, pathetic, chumpion tha.... Mr.Mic: Now, Hades, remember: no whining, no excuses! Hades: [adjusting his glasses and with a smile on his face] Of course, my apologies. Mr.Mic: No apology necessary, Hades, please continue with your work. As for you, Kauffman, I must say that you are the epitome of the phrase, "more guts than brains." You already have men such as Deathbringer and Otto Verhoeven wanting to destroy you, and as if that wasn't enough, you stick your nose somewhere where it shouldn't have been. [Mr. Mic gets up, smiles at the camera, walks over and pours some lemonade into a glass. He starts to chuckle as he turns back to the camera.] Mr.Mic: Oh Mr.Kauffman, the IIWF champion, Mr.Unstoppable, [he starts flexing and acting tough] Mr. "I can do anything I want because I am Mr. IIWF." Well, Kauffman, we will soon find out if you really are who you say you are! You appear to be a good singles wrestler. Let's see what happens when you take on _two_ wrestlers, huh? Let's see what has happened in the past. [He waves his hand and a graphic of a big "#1" appears and then fades out: cut to the debut of Pain Inc. in the IIWF. Footage shows them giving the Simply Pain to the ESPN reporter. "#2" appears: Pain Inc. perform the Simply Pain on Prince Abdul in the "Manager leaves Town" match. They raise their arms in victory. The screen fades to black again as a voice is heard:] Mr.Mic: Not a pretty sight, is it, Kauffman? [Next on the screen "#3","#4", and "#5" appear: Demolition come out to the ring and Pain Inc., disguised as spectators, attack them. They throw salt into Mr. Psycho's eyes and attack Monster with the Simply Pain. Mr. Mic is seen giving Mistress a tongue-lashing. Fade to black.] Mr.Mic: And finally... ["#6" appears on the screen: Hades grabs a photographer and brings him into Pain Inc.'s locker room. Mr. Mic throws the photographer towards Hellraiser, who grabs him in a chokeslam as Morningstar hits the photographer with a superkick. Cut back to poolside once more. Mr. Mic is seated on a lounge chair sipping a drink. Hades stares at the camera as he closes the notebook computer and sits in a chair directly across from Mr. Mic. Mr. Mic smiles as he addresses the camera.] Mr.Mic: So, Kauffman, it seems that by your actions you wish to become the seventh on the list of people who have suffered via the Simply Pain or the Demolition Drop. Now, Danny Boy, we understand that sometimes people get a little over-zealous, heat of the moment, that kind of thing, so here's what we propose. I have bought some of the IIWF interview time, either on Friday or Saturday Night, especially for you. I've bought this time so you can publicly apologize for your actions. Surely, the IIWF Champion doesn't want to be known as a sneak attacker, a man who performs his dirty deeds and then runs away like... well, I won't say it. Kauffman, I look forward to hearing your apology. [Mr. Mic and Hades raise their glasses] Ta-Ta. [Cut back to the studio.] TD: I'm not sure that Mr. Mic is going to get an apology out of Dan Kauffman as easily as that, and I have a feeling that the Players' Club might be interested in settling the score in a different way. Meanwhile, the Hangman have returned to their roots, the Badlands of California. Let's catch one of their number in a break from training: [Cut to footage subtitled, "Last Week": the Hangmen's ranch located in the Badlands just outside the small community of San Jaciento, CA. The familar logo of the Hangmen appears: The Hangman's red noose against a black backgroud. The Hangman is seated on a charcoal-grey horse looking out over the dark brown hills that surround the ranch.] TH: Well, we just received word that the IIWF has been awarded the Best Federation in the world. We all knew this even before a vote was taken. All of the athletes in the IIWF wouldn't be here if this was not the place where the toughest competition is to be found. But enough back-slapping. [The camera swings around to reveal a ranch house in the background as The Hangman continues speaking.] TH: When The Hangmen made thier return at Snow Brawl not everything went as planned. We became a little complacent and forgot that the level of competition here in the IIWF is a little higher than elsewhere in the world, where we spent the last part of 1996. So, my friends, a warning to all in the IIWF. The unrelenting force and drive that has been the trademark of The Hangmen will return. No one is safe, heads are going to pop. [The Hangman brings a red Hangman's noose up from the far side of his horse.] TH: This noose will fit around many necks. We here at the ranch have remembered what has made us the great tag and singles wrestlers that we are. In our matches last week a few new enemies have been uncovered, and a few friends new and old were remembered. Let me say hello to Josey Wales and his boys, and reassure them that old friends are not to worry. The Hangmen keep their promises and during the coming New Year we will have our eyes on your backs. If anyone should attempt to attack from the rear... well, let's just say that justice will be served. [The Hangman points to the east and the camera swings to a vast desert pass.] TH: Gentlemen, the area we are now looking over is one of the driest areas in the western United States. The boys and I have come here to train and remember what it takes to quench the thirst of our drive to the top. IIWF, do not tempt fate. [The camera zooms in on a figure that appears to be buried up to his neck in the sand and suddenly goes black. Cut back to the studio.] TD: The Hangmen are without a doubt three of the most intimidating competitors in the IIWF, but if there's one team that isn't going to be intimidated by a pair of near seven-foot monsters staring at them from the other side of the ring, it's Pain Inc. The match between these two teams was a real slobberknocker, and thanks to the underhanded tactics of the Hangmen, went to a time limit draw. Time and time again, the newly-focused Pain Inc. trapped one of the Hangmen in a hold that could have finished the match, but each time, the other Hangman was able to distract the official sufficiently for the third Hangman, who accompanied his partners to the ring, to swap places with the legal Hangman in the ring, thus getting a fresh man into the fray. Confused? So was the referee. Clearly the front office must be mandated to take a stand on this breach of the rules. [Match declared a draw after twenty minute time limit expired.] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= RONNIE PARIS vs. MAD DOG WATKINS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6' HEIGHT 6'5" 210lbs WEIGHT 269lbs Technical, Mat, Intelligence ATTRIBUTES Strength, Endurance, Intelligence ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: In one of the most surprising upsets in recent months here in the IIWF, Ronnie Paris defeated the veteran Mad Dog Watkins at the climax of a match which saw Paris on the receiving end for the majority of the time. The fans in the Coliseum were treated to a real athletic battle between these two men, who looked as if they were willing to wrestle all night. In fact, Watkins came out on the offensive, and gave Paris a tremendous beating, but the youngster displayed considerable resilience in absorbing everything Watkins could throw at him. However, despite some impressive reversals and near falls, Watkins always seemed to be one step ahead of the youngster. Nevertheless, Paris managed to survive the onslaught right up to the twenty-minute time limit. Watkins was so frustrated at not being able to put Paris away that he demanded the match continue until there was a winner. Paris seemed only too happy to oblige, and after a further twelve minutes, in which both men could have scored the victory with any number of holds, Paris managed to hit a well-executed crucifix on Watkins for the three-count and the victory. BL: So the kid got lucky. So what? TD: It was a great deal more than luck, Becky. Paris and Watkins wrestled one of the best technical encounters we've seen in the IIWF, and went at it for more than half an hour. Both men gave it their all, and it was only Watkins' pride in his undefeated streak that caused him to demand the match continue. Some might say that it was his competitive spirit which cost him the match, but whichever way you look at it, Paris demonstrated tonight that he is capable of beating the best in the IIWF on any given night, and the crowd expressed their appreciation with a fabulous ovation. Watkins, on the other hand, was jeered as he left the ring. He looked absolutely furious as he stormed up the aisle, and I think he'll be looking for a rematch in the very near future. [WINNER: Ronnie Paris by pinfall in 32:41.] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= "BADBOY" RANDY ACORN vs. EL SUPER GECKO =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'3" HEIGHT 6'1" 227lbs WEIGHT 225lbs Technical, Mat, Brawling ATTRIBUTES Mat, Technical, Aerial ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: "Badboy" Randy Acorn may have never truly left the IIWF, but he certainly returned in a very big way at Snow Brawl, pulling one of his infamous disguise attacks on the White Phoenix. Our broadcast colleague Larry Morton went backstage before Acorn's match tonight to ask Acorn the hard questions... BL: Like why he dressed up as a woman a while back? TD: Er, no, not exactly. Let's go to that interview: [Cut to footage subtitled, "Earlier Tonight." Larry Morton is seen standing impatiently outside Randy Acorn's locker room. Just as he's about to leave, Randy Acorn is seen walking up the hallway with his hand behind his back. Larry immediately approaches him.] LM: Mr. Acorn, I've been waiting here for twenty minutes. Where have you been? RA: Don't smart off to me, [BLEEP], you're lucky you're the one getting this [BLEEP]ing interview. I'm sure Roberts or Dross would've happily taken it, but I thought you were the perfect one for it. So shoot with your questions and don't say anything stupid, or else I'm out of here. [Larry is a little taken aback by Acorn's colourful language.] LM: Uh, oh yes, uh, first off, let me ask you why you attacked the White Phoenix at Snow Brawl when you and him have never had a problem? RA: I wanted to make a point and I believe that point was made. Phoenix is gone from the IIWF for awhile and the true "Badboy" is back with 110% ass-whipping ready to dish out to the comepetition. Some people say I have an attitude, I just say it's my way of letting people know how I feel about them. LM: You have certainly been doing that ever since you've been here. I think you've managed to infuriate just about everyone that you've ever stepped into the ring with. RA: Very true, and I love doing it. Frankly, those wrestlers can go [BLEEP] themselves, because it's a dog eat dog world out there and with me being the top dog, there's not going to be too many survivors. LM: Well, I only have one more question to ask you: why are you even going to bother stepping back into the ring after losing your last five matches. I mean, some might suggest that there's not really any point in it. Some have even gone so far as to suggest that you are pretty much washed up and... RA: [interrupting] Let me tell you something, Barry Moron, or whatever your name is. _You're_ washed up. You're the worst play-by-play man in the world, and you're such a retard that the word "clown" sends you into spasms of fear. Face it Barry, you're no more! Quit your job, run away, JUST LEAVE! [Larry, who had begun to shake with the mention of the word "clown", drops the microphone and slinks out of shot, his upper lip quivering. Acorn smiles as he picks up the microphone Larry has dropped.] RA: What a loser. I wonder if he'll ever be the same. I sure as hell hope not. Well, I'm going to answer his final question just because I'm a nice guy. I'm stepping into the ring to redeem myself. You see, I've been sick lately which means that I've had to basically throw every match that I've wrestled, but no more of that. I'm going to destroy the opposition one by one until I regain a title of some kind, whether it be the Cruiserweight, Intercontinental, World, or hell, even that Superstar Title. I'm a man on a mission and that mission is to kick the [BLEEP] out of everyone... and I mean everyone. I have no friends because I have no need for them. Step in my way and you'll be dealt with. For now, I'm outta here... later, the competition will be outta here. Now get out of my face. [Acorn enters his locker room and slams the door shut. Cut back to the studio.] BL: You've got to hand it to Acorn. He may be an obnoxious, devious little man... TD: [interrupting] And that's just his good points. BL: Don't interrupt me, Timmy. He may be a weasel, but he sure knows how to upset Larry Morton, and that puts him up in my estimation any day. TD: I can only assume that Acorn must have some kind of agreement with Larry's therapist. Until Snow Brawl, the clown therapy was going rather well, but I understand Acorn's little stunt put progress back two or three months. Anyway, I digress. You may remember that Acorn and El Super Gecko worked together a couple of months ago to rid the IIWF of an imitation "Badboy", but in the ring tonight, there was no sign of any teamwork whatsoever. Acorn came down to the ring and demonstrated the kind of form that took him to the Cruiserweight championship last year, but which disappeared. The good news for Acorn is that his Newark Knife cloverleaf is as deadly as ever -- and that's bad news for the rest of the IIWF. [WINNER: "Badboy" Randy Acorn by submission in 2:15.] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= SERGE ANNIS vs. MAJESTIC MAURICE McARTHUR =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'8" HEIGHT 6'1" 293lbs WEIGHT 250lbs Intelligence, Brawling, ATTRIBUTES Mat, Brawling, Cheating Endurance ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: One of the more bizarre twists of the World title match at Snow Brawl was the role played by Serge Annis, a sworn enemy of Champion Dan Kauffman, who came down to the ring and brawled with Casey "Blackheart" James. Neither man was thus able to interfere in the course of events between Kauffman and Deathbringer -- although that didn't stop Chris Quigley, but that's another story. Let's hear Annis's take on the situation: [Cut to footage subtitled, "Earlier Tonight." Complete darkness. A flickering light appears as Serge Annis holds a Zippo lighter. Annis stares into the fire.] SA: Some say I have a strange fascination -- no, obsession with fire... But that is certainly not the case... White Phoenix, I have no apologies to give to you. You weren't a fully functional partner, too concerned with the Cruiserweight title. Brody Thunder, the only thing I regret is missing you with the flame... hehehe.... and Casey James... you little weasel... [Annis shuts the lighter and the lights are turned on in the locker room.] SA: Why do I say you are a weasel? Because you, my friend, tried to stick your nose in Dan Kauffman's affairs. You tried to interfere... and save your excuses for the lesser man would believe you... but I know the truth... you wanted to cost Danny boy his title, and you paid for it. If you think you're tough for smacking me upside the head with the camera, you think again long and hard because if I ever see you in the ring in the near future, you _will_ pay. And Danny Kauffman... hehehe... I am _truly_ sorry I couldn't stop Quigley... or am I? Bottom line is, you'll never know. But you have the title... yet that isn't what I want, unlike Quigley and James. I want you... I want your soul... I certainly do know what I am doing... always. You have yet to see Serge Annis out of control and I don't think you will welcome the sight... I don't give a damn about the Lethal Lottery! I don't care that I lost! I never intended to win... oh no... I have better plans than that... AND NOW TONIGHT I STEP INTO THE RING WITH A MAN NAMED MAJESTIC MAURICE McARTHUR! WHAT THE HELL KIND OF FREAK ARE YOU, MAJESTIC ONE? Are you the freak that thrives on the darkness? Are you the freak that is powered by the fans? Or are you the freak that believes he is the best there is? It doesn't matter... tonight, oh Majestic one, you will go down in a majestic defeat... It's time for Serge Annis to prove why he is the Epitome of Evil...and to start taking names in IIWF... It will end with Kauffman... but the question you should all ask yourselves is... WHO WILL BE FIRST?! [Cut back to the studio.] TD: Annis clearly feels that Kauffman owes him one after the events of ten days ago, and the World Champion made an unscheduled appearance tonight to get a closer look at Annis in his match against Triple M. BL: Kauffman must have a death wish, coming out to taunt Annis when he has that cup of paraffin, or gasoline, or whatever it is, with him. TD: Certainly that lethal liquid also played a part in events tonight. Annis looked very impressive in the ring, taking McArthur apart with volley after volley of high-impact manoeuvres, before scoring the pinfall with his trademark chokeslam. However, the real interest occurred after the match. Annis beckoned Kauffman, who had been standing in the aisle, to get into the ring with him, but the Champion simply shook his head and turned to leave. He was stopped in his tracks by the sudden arrival of Deathbringer, who forced Kauffman down to ringside. Any suggestion of a Deathbringer/Annis alliance were quickly smashed, however, when Annis attempted to spew flame on Kauffman, and inadvertently singed the dark destroyer as the Champion dodged out of the way. BL: Probably the warmest Deathbringer's been for a few centuries. Anyone for barbecued corpse? TD: Deathbringer didn't take kindly to becoming a target for Annis' flamethrower, and the two men were quickly involved in a wild brawl, allowing Kauffman to disappear up the aisle to safety. A security team and the Jobber Justice Squad struggled to separate Deathbringer and Annis, but ultimately, the former IIWF Champion managed to hit the Tombstone on the "Epitome of Evil", leaving him laid out in the ring. Within a minute or so, Annis was sufficiently recovered to walk from the ring, but by that time, Deathbringer had already performed his characteristic disappearing trick. I can only imagine that Annis is going to want Deathbringer in the ring very soon, and what a match in prospect that would be... [WINNER: Serge Annis by pinfall in 4:30.] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= MARTY WARNETT vs. "NIFTY" NED NORTON =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 5'11" HEIGHT 6' 245lbs WEIGHT 245lbs Intelligence, Technical, Mat ATTRIBUTES Mat, Technical, Aerial ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: This Saturday Night, Marty Warnett will get his first title shot here in the IIWF as he goes up against newly-crowned Intercontinental Champion, Steve "the Fury" Kowalski. Warnett has certainly shaken off his rookie reputation, and earned the respect of many IIWF superstars in the past two months with his impressive showings, not least in the Battle Royal at Snow Brawl which earned him his title shot. However, his impressive string of victories has not been amassed without personal cost, and by the time Snow Brawl rolled around, Warnett was suffering the effects of not only a punishing schedule, but all manner of attacks by "Superstar" Stud Stetson... BL: [interrupting] Not to mention getting to know all those young, nubile teeny-bopper fans of his. TD: And what's that supposed to mean, Becky? BL: What do you think it's supposed to mean, Sherlock?! TD: There's no need to take that tone with me, Becky. The good news, though, is that when he stepped into the ring tonight to face "Nifty" Ned Norton, Warnett looked to be back on top form. Gone is the knee brace and the signs of fatigue -- the ten day layoff has clearly done wonders for Warnett's conditioning, and he finished off Norton in very short order, debuting a new trademark move -- a stomachbreaker followed by a flying headbutt from the top rope to the midsection of the downed opponent. I spoke to Warnett after the match, and he told me that he calls the move the Hangover. Rather appropriate, don't you think, Becky? BL: Shut up. [WINNER: Marty Warnett by pinfall in 2:49.] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= CHESHIRE vs. JUMPIN' JACK =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6' HEIGHT 6'2" 220lbs WEIGHT 240lbs Endurance, Technical, ATTRIBUTES Tripping, Pratfalls, Aerial Squirting ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: The bizarre Cheshire has made quite an impression on the IIWF since his debut last month, and on the strength of tonight's showing, appears to have turned the head of Dr. Hinterhalt, medical advisor to fellow countryman and former IIWF Champion, Otto "the Butcher" Verhoeven. Hinterhalt appeared in the aisle during Cheshire's match tonight and took copious notes on the clown's performance. BL: I didn't see Steve Roberts out there at ringside. TD: I was talking about Cheshire, Becky, but I'll be sure to pass on your comments to Steve. Cheshire's opponent tonight was the similarly-attired Jumpin' Jack. BL: Larry Morton's worst nightmare -- two clowns in the ring at once. TD: Quite. However, it was obvious that Jack was no match for Cheshire, who applied the Humorizer mandible claw within three minutes, having spent much of the match leaping around, giggling uncontrollably. I don't mind telling you that I think Cheshire is more than a little unbalanced. BL: And I don't mind telling you that I think you stink. [WINNER: Cheshire by submission in 2:39.] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= MR. DAMAGE vs. THE HANGMAN =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'3" HEIGHT 6'10" 245lbs WEIGHT 322lbs Endurance, Intelligence, ATTRIBUTES Strength, Brawling, Cheating Endurance ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: The Hangman had a warning for his Antipodean opponent before this match tonight: [Cut to footage subtitled, "Earlier Tonight": a close-up of the Hangman's masked face.] TH: Mr Damage, it seems the promoter has forgotten our little alliance of the past. I just want you to understand that friendship and business are two separate things. You, sir, will be in for the fight of your life. My road to the Championship here at the IIWF will not be postponed due to the warped sense of humor that the promoter has demonstrated in booking this match. My friend, just remember to look all ways before you step up for this match. The Hangmen are everywhere... and fire has been known to fly. [Cut back to the studio.] TD: The Hangmen had already demonstrated the advantages in looking very much alike when they battled Pain Inc. earlier in the evening. Who knows which of the three Hangmen it was in the ring tonight against Mr. Damage? BL: I don't think their mothers could tell them apart. TD: Possibly not. The Hangman looked very impressive in action tonight, but was cost the victory thanks to a very bizarre occurrence indeed. Let's go to Larry Morton, who has the details. [Tim and Becky turn to face the large video wall, on which appears the image of Larry Morton standing up in the stands in the now-empty IIWF Coliseum.] LM: Thanks, Tim. I'm standing here, in section F, row 15 of the IIWF Coliseum's seating, the precise spot on which a disturbing and unsettling event occurred. BL: Okay, Larry, you're not auditioning for Unsolved Mysteries now. Get on with it. LM: Er, okay. The Hangman was dominating Mr. Damage in the ring, as he had throughout the match, when suddenly there was a disturbance up here in the stands. The crowd scattered as if it had seen a ghost, and perhaps it had -- because having spoken to a few of the fans who were seated in this area, they all claim that a mysterious figure appeared as if out of nowhere, and they also claim that the figure was none other than the Senator. BL: You are aware how ridiculous that sounds, aren't you, Larry? LM: Well, of course. But perhaps the rumours of the Senator's demise are wildly exaggerated... certainly the Hangman was confused, and once he caught a glimpse of the figure up here, he took off into the stands, leaving Mr. Damage in the ring to gain an easy victory via countout. However, when the Hangman approached this area of the stands, the Senator had disappeared. TD: Do we have any footage of this, er, visitation, Larry? LM: Sadly not. By the time the director had worked out where the Hangman was headed, the figure had already vanished. BL: Surprise, surprise. I don't think I've heard anything so ridiculous in my entire life. Except for that time I heard Larry on the phone to that 1-900 number... LM: [interrupting] Becky! TD: Thanks, Larry. That's all for now. [The IIWF logo fades back onto the video wall. Tim and Becky turn back to the camera.] TD: We'll do our best to get to the bottom of this strange incident, folks, and we'll try to get comments from the Hangman in time for Friday's report. [WINNER: Mr. Damage via countout in 11:32.] =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= OTTO "THE BUTCHER" The Harlequins: VERHOEVEN & SANDMAN vs. TRAGEDY & CHAOS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6'8" 6'7" HEIGHT 5'10" 6' 340lbs 275lbs WEIGHT 220lbs 235lbs Strength Strength ATTRIBUTES Technical Strength Brawling Intelligence Endurance Technical Cheating Technical Aerial Teamwork ----------------------------------------------------------------------- TD: Our suspicions that the Sandman and Otto "the Butcher" Verhoeven wouldn't be able to work together in this match were quickly confirmed when these four men hit the ring. Let's go back down to Larry for the details: [Tim and Becky turn to the video wall, on which appears Larry Morton, standing beside the empty ring:] LM: Thanks, Tim. As you will remember, the Sandman appears to have taken a shine of sorts to Nurse Heidi, and was responsible for her loss to Mistress Sasha in the special Valet Match at Snow Brawl. Needless to say, that incident didn't do a great deal to endear the Sandman to Otto Verhoeven, and their simmering rivalry exploded in the ring earlier tonight. The Harlequins came out and looked focused for what was sure in any event to be a very tough and unpredictable match, but they weren't prepared for what actually happened, which was that they were completely ignored. The Sandman came out next, and Verhoeven, with Heidi nowhere to be seen, charged out behind his partner, and attacked him in the ring, laying him out with two vicious Slaughterslams. After the onslaught, Verhoeven grabbed the microphone. Let's go to footage of what happened next: [Cut to handheld footage subtitled, "Earlier Tonight." The Harlequins stand on the arena floor, watching from a distance as Verhoeven stands over the laid out form of the Sandman. Verhoeven shouts at the hostile crowd to shut up before speaking:] OV: Sandman, you imbecile, you schwacher Hundesohn, did you really believe I would fight on your side after you attacked my beloved Heidi? [He stomps the Sandman.] Did you really believe these fools [points to the Harlequins] would interest me so much that I would put our animosity aside? You are nothing but a pathetic wanze, a bug which can be squashed without real effort. Tonight you paid the price for your own stupidity, and I am kind enough to give you this last warning. Don't you ever appear at ringside during one of my matches, or you will truly learn what the wrath of the Butcher feels like! [He spits on the Sandman and throws down the microphone. However, at that moment, Harlequin Tragedy rolls into the ring and confronts Verhoeven. Big pop! Verhoeven goes to hit Tragedy with a hard right hand, but the Harlequin blocks, and a slugfest breaks out. On the outside, Harlequin Chaos appears to convulse with anger before grabbing a steel chair and leaping into the ring to his brother's aid. Verhoeven manages to chokeslam Tragedy to the mat to a big heel pop before Chaos jabs the chair into Verhoeven's ribs, knocking the Teutonic terror through the ropes to the outside. The Butcher lands on his feet, and threatens Chaos, who stands guard over his felled brother. Verhoeven makes his way up the aisle to the jeers of the crowd. Cut back to Larry at ringside.] LM: Remember, Verhoeven is signed to face Harlequin Tragedy in a Cage Match this Saturday Night -- and both men have tremendous records inside the steel cage. As for the Sandman, you can bet that despite the unfinished business he has with Creed following their match at Snow Brawl, he's going to want another shot at Verhoeven. Back to you in the studio. [Tim and Becky turn back to face the cameras as the IIWF logo fades back onto the video wall.] TD: Thanks, Larry. It might be worth mentioning that Harlequin Tragedy has never lost a cage match in his entire career... will Saturday Night be his first? [Match declared a no contest.] TD: Folks, we're nearly out of time for tonight, but before we leave you, let's get comments from "Quickstrike" Chris Quigley. I had the honour of interviewing Quigley in the ring earlier on this evening. He had some very interesting things to say about the events at Snow Brawl, and to Dan Kauffman in particular. [Cut to footage subtitled, "Earlier Tonight." Tim Dross stands in the ring, holding an IIWF microphone.] TD: Ladies and gentlemen... I give you "Quickstrike" Chris Quigley! [Huge crowd pop as "For Those About to Rock" starts piping through the arena, and Quigley emerges through the curtain, wearing dark blue jeans with a rip in the knee, a white New Orleans "Hard Rock Cafe" shirt, a black Quickstrike leather jacket, and silver wire rimmed shades. Quigley absently slaps a few hands on his way to the ring, before climbing between the top and second ropes, and walking up to Dross, as his laser symbol shines down on the canvas:] ______ / _ _ \ / / \/ \ \ | \_/\_/ | \ /\ / |______| |||||||| ________ |______| ________ /_____ /______ ______\ _____\ /______ /__\ ______\ ____/ ____ \_____ /_______\ /_______/ [The symbol fades and the music dies down, as Dross begins to speak, while the occasional fan still screams something positive towards Quigley, who responds with a wink or a thumbs up.] TD: Well, Snow Brawl is in the history books, Chris, and your name is among the most prominent in the events that took place there. I'll skip right past the tag team match that featured you and Hangman teaming up. Let's go to the Battle Royal. You were _so_ close to getting a title shot, yet so far. Casey James and Marty Warnett... CQ: [grabbing Dross' wrist and moving the microphone to his own mouth] Marty Warnett is a mid-carder who got lucky, bottom line! [confused pop] As for Casey James... this guy has been after Kauffman even longer than I've been, he's paid his dues, and he gets the World title shot. I can live with that. What I can't live with is knowing that I am still better than both James and Warnett _combined_, and yet, somehow I didn't win that Battle Royal! [crowd gives another semi-shocked pop as Quigley releases Dross's wrist] TD: Well, that may be a matter of opinion. You did, however, make your presence felt in the main event between Dan Kauffman [Big face pop!] and Deathbringer [Big heel pop!]. It looked as if you were helping Kauffman, but ended up costing him the match. What was going through your mind? CQ: Dammit, Kauffman! I did _not_ want to do what I did! I didn't want to have to save your ass! I didn't want to have to save your title! You shoulda been able to beat Deathbringer, but for some reason, I don't know, maybe you choked, but you _couldn't_ beat him! It's time to face facts, Kauffman. You are the IIWF World Champion because I _allowed_ it! [Shocked pop!] You _won_ that World title because of me! You _kept_ that World title because of me! And why break with tradition? You're going to _lose_ that World title because of me! [mixed pop] TD: That leads us to an interesting question... what about Deathbringer? CQ: [takes off his shades and hangs them on his collar] What _about_ Deathbringer? TD: Well, you did cost him his chance to win the IIWF World title, a feat many think he would have accomplished had it not been for you nearly cracking his skull with a chair. CQ: [slowly nods as he looks around] Yeah, no doubt about it. I cost Deathbringer the IIWF World title. So what?! Unlike someone else, you don't see me hiding behind women or trying to fight off inner demons in order to stand up to him! Deathbringer, I think you should save yourself the humiliation and back off! But if you want to "settle the score"... if you want a piece of me? You know where to find me! [At that moment the lights flick a little, but are quickly restored. Dross looks a little nervous, but Quigley merely rolls his eyes.] CQ: There's an example of either faulty wiring, or Deathbringer's mind games. Neither one of them scares me. The fact of the matter is this... Dan Kauffman owes me _big_ time! How can he pay me back? I think that World Title will do just fine! Kauffman, your days as IIWF World Champion are numbered, because I don't feel like letting you be champion any longer! [Quigley walks away from Dross and vaults over the top rope to the floor, as "For Those About to Rock" starts up again, and the fans respond with another loud pop, although some Kauffman fans are visibly offended. Quigley slaps a few more hands, and stops to sign a poster, before disappearing behind the curtain. Cut back to the studio.] TD: I'm not sure exactly what Chris Quigley means, but his comments tonight certainly throw a whole new light on Kauffman's title match this Saturday Night against Casey James. What a show it's going to be this Saturday Night. Steve Roberts and myself will be there to call all the action as three of the IIWF's Championships are put up for grabs, as well as other fantastic matches. Becky and Larry will be with you on Friday to look ahead to the weekend in Countdown to Saturday Night... perhaps Becky will be back to her normal self by then. BL: Somebody get me some aspirin. TD: Until then, this is Tim Dross, for Becky LaRue and Larry Morton, saying: so long, everybody! [The lights drop in the studio once more, and Becky can be heard muttering, "Ah, that's better..." as the audio cuts out. 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 -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=+