Obviously love you for the kind words, BT. Hopefully this is a decent follow up to the PPV...
Extreme Championship Wrestling
ECW Hardcore TV
ECW Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
March 9th, 2001
We’re less than one week removed from Living Dangerously, and the atmosphere is as explosive as ever inside the infamous ECW Arena. As the rabid, faithful fans of extremely bellow out chants of “ECDUB”, ‘The Voice Of ECW’ himself, JOEY STYLES stands, a sole figure in the middle of the ring. Ever the professional, Styles is wearing a suit to go along with his smirk, enjoying the moment. After letting the fans make some noise for a while, Joey gets the show on the road by basically yelling over the top of the fans.
Joey Styles: Hello everyone and welcome to the 399th edition of Extreme Championship Wrestling’s Hardcore TV!
It’s crazy to think we’re almost at 400 episodes. The fans cheer for Styles fact drop, and Joey’s smirk gets a little bigger.
Joey Styles: The rumour mill is going crazy currently in ECW, as the word on the street is that there may be a celebration of sorts in store for episode 400 next week. Hopefully we’ll get more information on that later, but right now I want to focus on Living Dangerously this past Sunday. More or less, I want to focus on the main event. It was a Three Way Dance for the ECW World Heavyweight Championship. Justin Credible. Steve Corino. And The Sandman. By the end of the match, we saw the shocking return of Raven, who took out both Corino and The Sandman, ensuring there was no winner of the match. What that means is we’re now four weeks into this new era of ECW and there is still no ECW World Heavyweight Champion.
The fans buzz in anticipation, wondering what’s next in this situation.
Joey Styles: So at this time I’d like to bring out the man who caused all of this controversy at Living Dangerously… RAVEN!!!
“Come Out And Play” hits almost immediately, and the nostalgia fills the arena. The fans mark out, cheering loudly as RAVEN makes his first proper entrance in the ECW Arena for far to long. He looks as moody and tortured as ever as he makes his way to the ring. Once inside of the ring, Raven unzips and opens up his leather jacket, revealing THE ECW TITLE AROUND HIS WAIST!!!
As much as the fans show their appreciation, and Styles tries to get a handshake, there is no reaction from Raven. Instead, he simply unstraps the title, and sits in the corner like only he can, placing the stolen title across his lap. Looking a little awkward for a moment, Joey crouches down, realising this is the only way this interview will begin.
Joey Styles: Raven, the question on everybody’s mind has to be what made you want to come back to ECW?
As calculated as ever, Raven just thinks for a moment before answering.
Raven: The answer of why I came back to ECW is rather complex but at the same time, it’s not all that complicated. You see, I was in talks with the World Wrestling Federation, but they were looking for the Johnny Polo… They were looking for the Scotty Flamingo inside of Scott Levy.
The arena is near silent, listening to Raven, outside of some heat at the mention of some less extreme gimmicks. Raven looks miserable but is his usual hypnotic self.
Raven: I can hear the distaste throughout the arena, but I can reassure everyone that all three of those men are dead. Disintegrated, cremated, gone, and standing in their ashes is a person neither Eric Bischoff nor Vince McMahon could kill. Standing in their ashes is the man known as Raven.
Big pop for the former ECW Champion, who holds both arms out wide, performing his trademark pose.
Raven: That left the WWF out of the equation, WCW is a shambles, so I decided to pay attention to what was happening within my old stomping grounds here in ECW. It’s safe to say what I’ve seen over the last few weeks of programming was disgusting. The Network and Steve Corino ruined and almost drove to bankruptcy a once great company a-…
???: CUT… CUT!!!
We don’t see the man yet, but we know the voice.
???: WAIT A MINUTE…
The heat is LOUD, as more and more fans clue in.
???: STOP FILMING…
With those words, CYRUS steps through the curtain, causing the boos from the audience to get even louder. Cyrus isn’t alone tonight either, THE NETWORK is out in full force behind him. Despite the numbers advantage, Cyrus and his men opt to stand atop the small entrance way the ECW Arena possesses. Not trusting anybody, Raven still keeps the ECW Title in his grasp, but he stands up now, ready to defend himself if required.
Cyrus: I don’t want to hear your convoluted reasons why, or your manipulation of words to get these people on your side, Raven. Let me come at you with some facts. What you did to Corino and to the main event at Living Dangerously was uncalled for and ridiculous. As a matter of fact, if I even knew what your contract status is with ECW, there would be severe consequences. I’d fine you or worse, but as of right now, I can’t do that.
All of The Network, especially Cyrus and Corino are extremely frustrated by the situation. Raven remains emotionless.
Cyrus: That frustrates me but that doesn’t mean you’re getting off without any form of punishment. I want to stress the point that The Network aren’t the chickenshit heels we’re painted out to be. Actually, I don’t want to just stress the point, I’m going to prove it right now and cut a little deal with you, Raven.
The fans and Raven seem legitimately interested in where this is going.
Cyrus: I knew old predictable Joey Styles over there would be clamouring to get a word with you tonight, so prior to coming out here, I had a discussion with Paul Heyman. With the blessing of Paul Heyman, I have an announcement to make. I have come to the decision that the ECW World Championship will be up for grabs at Barely Legal when Raven and Steve Corino go one on one. Oh and unlike Living Dangerously, there must be a winner.
HUGE pop for the fans for that announcement, and Corino looks pumped up, getting encouraging pats on the back from his Network cohorts. The slightest hint of a smirk appears on Raven’s face as well at the announcement.
Raven: That all sounds good to me, but since I’m such a master manipulator, and you want to come out here and cut deals, well I’ve got a deal of my own that I want to cut with you.
Cyrus tilts his head ever so slightly, concerned or curious, or both.
Raven: Being the ECW World Champion means anytime, anyplace, you’re ready to go to war. To prepare ourselves, both Corino and I should have matches with a variety of the best ECW has to offer leading up to Barely Legal. To make things interesting, if either of us loses, we’re deemed not worthy, and we are out of the championship match at Barely Legal.
The fans like it, as does Raven, but Corino stomps his feet and frantically begins complaining to Cyrus. He doesn’t like the stipulation one bit.
Raven: Being the champion takes more than skill and having the right connections, it takes grit and determination. This will prove who really wants it more, and since he’s never held this title before, it will prove if Corino is dedicated and ready to be a World Champion. Can he talk the talk? Can he fill the shoes of greats like Raven? Is Corino the guy to step up and confirm if the torch is ready to be passed?
Boos from the fans as they don’t think so, but Corino is rambling off mic, telling everybody he definitely is. The Network and Cyrus agree.
Raven: We’ll find out, and if not, then it’s simple. As far as Steve Corino goes… Quote The Raven, Nevermore.
A loud pop emanates from the fans for hearing the catchphrase for the first time in so long. Cyrus thinks for a moment, taking his time to respond.
Cyrus: I wouldn’t normally let somebody like you take the lead on this sort of thing, but I agree with your proposal under one circumstance. You hand back the ECW Championship.
Raven looks down at the title clenched in his left hand, pondering.
Raven: I can’t do that, the answer is no. You’re dealing with somebody different here, Cyrus, there is no negotiation. I have the upper hand. Even if you reject the idea I proposed, it doesn’t change what’s in my hand right now. I’m still keeping the belt.
The Network, especially Corino jump up and down, having a tantrum. Cyrus is forced to reply quickly, trying to keep things together.
Cyrus: Ah… Fine, I agree. You get your series of matches, as does Corino. Keep the belt in your hand for now and have fun in your match later tonight against… STEVEN RICHARDS.
Raven doesn’t react as first, until STEVEN RICHARDS steps out from behind Corino and Cyrus, taking centre stage. He straightens his tie, as he and Raven now stare each other down. Richards looks smug and confident, whilst Raven still barely changes his facial expression, but his eyes scan Richards’ soul, trying to determine if his old friend is still in there somewhere. Raven then breaks out the ‘Raven pose’ yet again, standing tall in the ring, as we cut away…
…
*OPENING CREDITS*
“Another Body Murdered” plays throughout the arena, getting a mixed reaction as the newcomer known as SAMOA JOE storms down the ramp. Towel draped across his shoulders, Joe looks in a foul mood, stepping into the ring and immediately snatching the mic from the ring announcer. Without a second thought, Joe signals for his music to be cut and starts speaking.
Samoa Joe: I’m angry, I’m furious, I’m irate, I’m pissed off because I wasn’t booked at Living Dangerously. There were guys on that card who haven’t done half of what I’ve done in my few weeks here. Who do I have to beat to get a pay per view match?
He paces as he vents, unhappy.
Samoa Joe: Big bad ECW veteran my ass. I destroyed Brian Lee. I did it with ease, I decimated him, and I’ll take on anyone else until ECW realises what they’ve got.
Well, that sounded like an open challenge of sorts. Joe drops the mic, continuing to storm around the ring, when “Cherub Rock” answers the call. Due to it being another ECW alumni making an appearance, it’s a damn good reaction as the masked luchador, PSICOSIS steps into the ECW Arena. The Cruiserweight takes his time, slapping hands with the fans, enjoying the moment, as Joe just snarls away, waiting for him to enter the squared circle…
Match One
Psicosis vs. Samoa Joe
Despite the positive reaction from the fans, and the fact that he’s clearly trying hard, it’s a rough night for Psicosis tonight. He’s just out of his element and outmatches by the specimen that is Samoa Joe. Picking up from where he left off in his match with Lee, Joe dominates, although he looks more impressive here, because Psicosis is a lot easier to thrown around than Lee was. The luchador has plenty of heart though, and at one point gets a burst of offense, managing to send Joe crashing to the canvas.
Sensing his chance, Psicosis stepped to the apron, before climbing up to the top rope, but Joe basically no sold everything, and was already back to his feet. Joe interrupted Psicosis before he could leap from the top, nailing him with some right hands, With Psicosis dazed, Joe climbs up to the top with him, before manhandling the Mexican… SUPER MUSCLEBUSTER!!!
Another impressive wrinkle to Joe’s game earns an “ECDUB” chant. The match could probably be over there, but Joe almost looks angry that Psicosis even attempted to challenge him. Instead of finishing things off, Joe continues to dominate, just throwing Psicosis around like a rag doll. Psicosis fights to the very end though, literally. Joe drags Psicosis to his feet and tees off with some right hands, before Irish whipping Psicosis to the ropes… PSICOSIS JUMPS TO THE SECOND ROPE…
SPRINGBOARD SOMERSAULT PRESS!!!
NO!!! JOE CATCHES HIM…
WITH THE COQUINA CLUTCH!!!
Psicosis’ body flails around for a few moments, desperately trying to escape, but he’s unable to, and Psicosis passes out. This one is over.
Winner: Samoa Joe
Another appearance by Samoa Joe and another victory. Again, he shows off a bit of a mean streak and shows he belongs here in ECW. He gets another mixed reaction, but he doesn’t care, barely celebrating, and instead storming to the back, just as he arrived…
…
Standing in the back in front of the dingy banner with the ECW logo is a man who was victorious in his ECW debut last Sunday, CURT HENNIG. The perfect one stands proudly, ready to cut his first promo in the land of extreme.
Curt Hennig: Firstly, I just wanted to start off by saying that I hope everybody enjoyed my performance at Living Dangerously. Coming into a new promotion, especially one with the reputation of ECW and it’s die hard fans, there’s a certain pressure to impress. I’m very proud of my match with Eddie Guerrero at Living Dangerously, and if that’s what it feels like to be in ECW, I’m extremely excited to be here. I took a look around earlier, and I could almost feel the ghosts of the past. I’m astonished with the aura of the ECW Arena to.
The fans are eating this up, babyface Hennig is saying all the right things.
Curt Hennig: I’m not here blowing smoke, the win over Eddie wasn’t easy. Not even a little bit. But if that is what it’s going to be like against the best that ECW has to offer… Then I know I made the right choice and maybe this is the place to be.
Hennig smiles, genuinely excited.
Curt Hennig: I’ve done a lot in my career and have a lot of history in the professional wrestling industry. I’ve had perfect times spent in the AWA, the WWF and WCW, but getting a sense of the way things work around here, the land of extreme may suit me the best yet. My guarantee to all the fans out there is that I’m going to make ECW absolutely perfect.
Hennig is still very obviously excited by his future here in ECW, as we cut away…
…
To the Eagle’s Nest, where JOEY STYLES is once again riding solo at the desk.
Joey Styles: Ladies and gentlemen, you can see that once again, I’m performing commentary duties on my own tonight. My broadcast colleague Joel Gertner is not by my side. I wish I could share more information on where Joel is, but I have no clue what his whereabouts are this time.
Styles looks concerned.
Joey Styles: I can’t help but have a bad feeling about all of this. Gertner was in Stamford, Connecticut last Friday, we found that out as he arrived late to last week’s Hardcore TV. Not only that, but when I tried to press him for further information, he was extremely shady at Living Dangerously.
Another pause from Joey, a sombre look across his face.
Joey Styles: I don’t know what else to really comment here. All I can say is I’m rather nervous at what his explanation will be this time.
And with an eerie silence, we head to our first commercials of the evening.
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
After the break, JOEY STYLES is back out in the ring, of course being serenaded with “ECDUB” chants. He lets the fans get some of their rowdiness out of their systems before deciding to yell over the top of them.
Joey Styles: Ladies and gentlemen, it’s my pleasure and honour as the voice of ECW to introduce our special guest at this time. Please give an ECW welcome to former WCW and WWF superstar… DUSTIN RHODES!!!
Stepping through the curtain to no music is DUSTIN RHODES. He’s wearing a casual pair of blue jeans and a tee, looking much more like ‘The Natural’ as opposed to Goldust. Some fans give Rhodes some applause at first, but as he makes his way down the ramp, the fans begin hitting him with “GOLDUST” chants. It’s a mocking tone from the fans, but Rhodes ignores it, stepping in and shaking hands with Joey.
Joey Styles: Firstly, I just wanted to say thanks so much for your time. Considering your family pedigree, and the career that you’ve put together for yourself so far, I have to admit I was pretty excited when I heard you were going to be here tonight. Are you thinking about joining the land of extreme?
Rhodes smirks at Styles’ question, looking around the arena, where the fans await his response.
Dustin Rhodes: The short answer would be no, Joey. I’m not considering joining ECW at this point in time. I’m not out here to perform. I’m not out here to make any type of commitment, I’m not here signing a contract, none of that. As disappointing as it might sound for some of you, I’m just here visiting.
Joey looks disappointed with the answer, whilst the fans start heckling the former Goldust again.
Dustin Rhodes: I don’t have anything against ECW at all, but I didn’t even proactively attend this event tonight. Paul Heyman invited me to come enjoy the show. No string attached, and that’s all I’m here to do.
Rhodes seems pretty genuine, as Joey clearly accepts his answer as truth.
Dustin Rhodes: So I won’t take up anymore time, I want the show to go on. I just want to wish everyone well and now I’m going to go find my seat.
Dustin bids Styles farewell with another handshake, before exiting the ring and walking around ringside. Rhodes eventually climbs over the barricade, finding his seat in the audience, conveniently next to Hat Guy and Tye Dye Guy. He shakes both of their hands as well, before it’s time to get on with the rest of the show…
…
In a locker room backstage, there’s a makeshift folding table set up in the centre of the area, with stacks of paperwork on it. Sitting behind the table is PAUL HEYMAN, who is clearly using this particular space as an office of sorts. Heyman continues to sort through some paperwork when the LATIN AMERICAN XCHANGE, HERNANDEZ and HOMICIDE burst into the space. Heyman looks up, perturbed.
Hernandez: Yo, Paul, we demanding to face Styles and Daniels tonight.
Heyman doesn’t look to pleased with anybody demanding anything from him. Surprisingly though, he takes a deep breath, maintaining his composure.
Paul Heyman: I appreciate the gusto and the hunger, but it’s just not possible. There’s no room on tonight’s show for an additional match, we’ve already got a full card.
LAX are pissed, almost looking at Heyman threateningly.
Paul Heyman: Before you do anything stupid, let me finish. I’ve got a deal for you both. Behave this week, don’t ruin any parts of the show, and you can face them next week on the 400th episode of Hardcore TV.
Homicide and Hernandez share a fist bump, happy with the outcome. Heyman looks to go back to his paperwork, but they don’t leave.
Homicide: Yeah, we’re down with that, but that isn’t all we want. We want a tag team title shot at Barely Legal since you’re all about giving out title shots like you did for Raven. I mean, he hasn’t even wrestled yet, he just came back.
Now Heyman is annoyed.
Paul Heyman: I told you both to behave tonight. I’m ordering you both out of here right now, otherwise you won’t even get the opportunity next week.
Realising they may have pushed to far, LAX leave the area. The cameras follow them though, with the big man speaking to Homicide.
Hernandez: Alright, next week is our chance to prove to the world what we already know. To prove to that fat jew bastard what everybody’s going to know, the Latino Nation is not to be messed with.
They share another fist bump, seemingly ready for next week’s big match…
…
We’re back at ringside when “Alpha Male” plays throughout the arena. Looking to continue his undefeated streak, the dominant MONTY BROWN storms towards the ring, garnering a mixed, yet enthusiastic response from the fans. No nonsense as usual, Brown enters the ring and paces back and forth, awaiting his next victim. The nostalgia hits as “Animal” plays throughout the arena, bringing out EDDIE GUERRERO. Eddie gets a mixed reaction also, taking his time at the top of the ramp. On commentary, Joey Styles puts over the fact that since joining ECW Monty has been undefeated and unstoppable, especially at Living Dangerously against Masato Tanaka. Once at ringside, Eddie wears a smirk, showing off some of his charisma, but he slithers around ringside, refusing to enter the ring, instead opting for a mic.
Eddie Guerrero: I’m really sorry to upset everybody but I’m not doing this tonight. I’m not physically capable, I’m too banged up from wrestling Curt Hennig.
MAJOR heat from the fans, disliking the cowardice from Eddie. Monty looks furious, managing to get a mic from somewhere.
Monty Brown: Nah, that’s bullshit. Eddie, you better get your ass in the ring…
Eddie doesn’t, shaking his head in defiance before placing his mic down. Eddie looks to start his way around ringside to leave up the ramp, but Monty slides out after him. Guerrero begins frantically running around the ring, with Brown in hot pursuit… AND BROWN SHOWS HIS CRAZY BURST SPEED, CATCHING EDDIE!!!
Eddie freaks out as Brown begins pummelling him outside of the ring, before rolling Eddie inside…
Match Two
Eddie Guerrero vs. Monty Brown
Monty Brown follows in after Guerrero, and the referee signals for the bell, this match is now official. Brown picks Eddie up, and sends him to the ropes, before charging forward himself… LOOKING FOR THE POOOOUUUUUNCE!!!
NO!!! EDDIE GRABS AHOLD OF THE ROPES, STOPPING HIMSELF FROM COMING BACK TO BROWN!!!
Instead the wily veteran of the game drops down and slides out underneath the bottom rope. The fans are furious as Eddie escapes up the ramp, not even looking back at the furious Monty Brown. With Eddie cowardly disappearing through the curtain, the ref has no choice but to award the match to the less than impressed Brown…
Winner: Monty Brown
The fans are upset and so is Monty Brown. There’s no satisfaction for the ‘Alpha Male’ in this victory tonight, so he doesn’t even celebrate. Instead, he exits the ring, shaking his head in disgust, still undefeated, but not happy about it tonight…
…
In an undisclosed location in the back, we see BIG DICK DUDLEY and SPIKE DUDLEY both somewhat deep in concentration. As the camera angle changes, we see that they are in the middle of a game of chess. As the camera zooms in further, we see that Spike looks out of it, mostly likely off on an LSD trip somewhere, whilst Big Dick is chewing on the rook. The unique version of Dudleyz chess continues, until both men tense up when STEVEN RICHARDS enters the fray.
Steven Richards: Whoa, let’s settle down. I come in peace. Firstly, you may both remember me from my previous, mind numbing stint in ECW, so please let me reintroduce myself. I am Steven Richards, not Stevie.
He offers his hand but neither Dudley accepts it. Richards grimaces, before straightening up his tie and pressing forward.
Steven Richards: Fine, let’s skip the small talk and get straight to the formalities. I’m here to inform you, Spike, that you have a match tonight. You will be going one on one with the next ECW Champion, Steve Corino.
Spike shrugs, not looking concerned or afraid in the slightest.
Steven Richards: Maybe that will be the beginning of two more vile, brainless cretins such as yourselves being banished from The Network’s ECW…
Before the big mouth can say anything else, and angry Big Dick jumps out of his chair and throws the chess board across the ring. Sensing the danger here, Richards scurries off, with the irritated larger Dudley keeping an eye on him the entire time…
…
The next scene picks up in the Boiler Room of the arena, but it has been decorated. Instead of just pipes and concrete walls, there’s Italian flags and Italian memorabilia spread across the walls. Hanging out in the room are THE FULL BLOODED ITALIANS, but after the way Living Dangerously went for them, the quartet all look to be in terrible moods.
Little Guido: We screwed up at Living Dangerously so bad. We let Raven take us out which prevented us from doing our favour for The Network. The Network are the powerful conglomerate in ECW, and now, hell, now The Network won’t even talk to us.
Guido looks down at the ground, shaking his head. The disappointment is still raw for all of them, when suddenly JOHNNY STAMBOLI looks over at Guido.
Johnny Stamboli: Hey, Guido, I’m confused. You promised me I would become made after Living Dangerously.
The leader of The FBI shoots Stamboli an incredulous look.
Little Guido: I did, but look how Living Dangerously went down. You’ve done nothing to show you deserve it yet.
Stamboli is pissed and there’s a tension filled silence, when suddenly there’s a knock on the door. They all look curious as SAL E. GRAZIANO goes to open the door, and when he does, in walks TRACY SMOTHERS. The wannabe zip comes in and greets Guido, Big Sal and TONY MAMALUKE with hugs, whilst just kind of nodding at Stamboli. All the Italians look confused to see Smothers, and he notices, a knowing grin on his face.
Tracy Smothers: I got some good news. I just got done signing a new contract for ECW with Paul E.
The FBI take in what they’ve heard for just a moment.
Little Guido: Welcome back!
Guido puts his arms out wide and Smothers, Mamaluke and Big Sal join for another hug. The band is back together. Sitting to the right of the band is Stamboli, anxiety written all over his face, his future in The FBI perhaps more certain than ever now…
…
Back at ringside, standing in the middle of the ring are the former ECW Tag Team Champions, DANNY DORING and ROADKILL. They are a little lower energy than normal, subdued and annoyed at not being champs anymore, and the reaction they get from the fans is surprisingly mixed. Of course, Doring has a mic in hand, ready to get something off his chest. Before he can speak though, he notices DUSTIN RHODES in the crowd.
Danny Doring: Before I get started, I just want to shout out a man I respect a hell of a lot who’s sitting in the crowd tonight. Dustin Rhodes, thanks for being here, man.
The fans politely applaud as Dustin shoots Doring a thumbs up and thanks him.
Danny Doring: Now onto business… We may have lost our Tag Team Titles fair and square, we can call a spade a spade and admit that. But, we do have a rematch clause. And we feel naked without those titles and don’t want to wait to long to get them back. We want to use our rematch clause next week on the 400th episode of Hardcore TV.
This declaration gets a loud cheer from the fans, and then “Sinister Music” interrupts. Without the champions themselves, THE SINISTER MINISTER comes out to address the challenge, smartly remaining at the top of the ramp. Once the cheers from the crowd die down, TSM answers the challenge.
The Sinister Minister: Doring, Roadkill, I appreciate the openness and honestness of your challenge. I’m out here alone tonight not to play games or set up a sneak attack, so you can rest easy. Tajiri and Mikey have been given the night off on my expense. They will be back next week though, so your challenge for next week has been accepted. What I will say is that The Unholy Alliance wants to move past you two next week, so expect it to be 100 times more violent, 1oo times more extreme, and 100 times more hardcore than Living Dangerously.
Having answered the challenge and sent a message, TSM leaves. Inside the ring, Doring and Roadkill look eager at the opportunity to reclaim their gold, not at all frightened by the warning from The Sinister Minister…
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
It’s another week meaning we get another video package, showing highlights of SCOTT NORTON decimating people with Lariats. This time the video includes clips of Norton’s merchandise freaking out DON WEST and SID at Living Dangerously, before concluding with words announcing that Scott Norton will be debuting in ECW in the very near future…
…
Now back at ringside, “Vicious” hits and the crowd are immediately up in arms, booing loudly as DON WEST makes his way out, with SID not to far behind him. Despite the way Living Dangerously ended for them, West is all smiles, waving at the fans, looking like a complete douchebag. Meanwhile, Sid carries a box filled with merchandise, as potentially the events of Living Dangerously have caused them to change strategy, and not leave the merch lying across a table inside the ring. Once they get inside the ring, the easily excited West gets a mic, surprisingly not even paying attention to the merch.
Don West: Being the sales guru that I am, I know I can’t just come out here every night with the same old pitch, so we’re changing it up tonight. Without further ado, I want to invite two guests to the ring who have brand new merchandise to the ECW line… None other than The Chair Swingin’ Freaks, Axl Rotten and Balls Mahoney!
“Big Balls” improves the fans mood, with loud cheers filling the arena as THE CHAIR SWINGIN’ FREAKS, AXL ROTTEN AND BALLS MAHONEY do come down the ramp. In typical fashion, they both have steel chairs in their hands, and they raise them above their heads, greeting the adoring audience. Even with the chairs in possession, Mahoney and Rotten are extremely aware of Sid, who shows no sign of doing anything but staring at them. West signals for the music to be cut, wanting to continue now his guests are in the ring.
Don West: Thanks so much for agreeing to be a part of this presentation tonight. Back to the business at hand, if you fans act now, we’ve got a very special deal for you. You can get your very own personalised Chair Swingin’ Freaks steel chairs.
The fans don’t mind the announcement, giving it a decent reaction. West encourages them to wield and show off their steel chairs, and after some initial hesitation, Mahoney and Axl show off the chairs.
As Balls begins to head to a corner of the ring to give the fans a better view, Sid steps in his path. The tension builds between the two until Sid speaks.
Sid: I don’t want any problems, but can I see one of the chairs?
The fans urge Balls to decline the offer, but he’s stuck in a tough spot. He reluctantly hands the chair over to Sid, who begins examining it. Sid holds it up in the air, twirling in his hands, slowly and methodically examining it, living up to his previous psycho moniker.
Sid continues to stare at the chair, and once Mahoney’s guard drops ever so slightly, Sid turns… AND SID WALLOPS AXL ROTTEN ACROSS THE SKULL WITH THE STEEL CHAIR!!!
Balls snaps into gear, freaking out and charging at Sid… WHO LEVELS BALLS WITH A CHAIR SHOT TO THE SKULL AS WELL!!!
Sid has completely snapped, as Mahoney rolls onto his stomach…AND SID WEARS OUT THE BACK OF MAHONEY WITH THE CHAIR REPEATEDLY… UNTIL THE CHAIR SNAPS!!!
Sid is supposed to be a heel, but the ECW fans can’t help but cheer the brutal nature of his actions. With one chair broken, he throws it out of the ring and picks up Rotten’s chair. Sid sets the chair up for somebody to sit on, before dragging Axl up… SID CHOKESLAMS ROTTEN RIGHT THROUGH THE STEEL CHAIR!!!
Somehow, Balls has managed to stagger up, so Sid meets him with a kick to the gut… SID POWERBOMBS BALLS ON TOP OF ROTTEN!!!
Jumping up and down like a lunatic is West, loving what he is seeing. Sid just starts through his downed enemies, almost absentmindedly sharing a fist bump with West. With the damage done, West leads Sid out of the ring, having perhaps sent a message after the issues with Norton last at Living Dangerously…
…
After the destructive scene, we head up to The Eagle’s Nest, so JOEY STYLES can give his thoughts.
Joey Styles: You might not like the man but the mark Don West and his man, his, ugh, bodyguard I guess, Sid, have cause and left on ECW thus far is undeniable. They seem borderline unstoppable and I’m not sure if it’s going to stop anytime soon.
Joey pauses for a moment, before continuing on with his next thought.
Joey Styles: The only thing I can see that could challenge their dominance right now is the message sent, or at least supposedly sent by none other than Scott Norton at Living Dangerously. I can’t help but wonder what will happen when Scott Norton physically debuts in the ECW Arena. When Norton is going to debut has not been revealed, but what I’ve heard is that it could apparently happen at any time.
A little bit of extra hype there from Joey, before he sends us to ringside for our next match…
…
Match Three
Spike Dudley w/Big Dick Dudley vs. Steve Corino w/CW Anderson
Both men have their back up with them, but this initially starts off as a one on one contest. Not overly happy with how the night started, and the issues he’s having with Raven holding the ECW belt, Corino unleashes in the early stages. He goes to town on Spike immediately, overwhelming and beating down his smaller opponent. Corino refuses to relent, landing an array of punches, before RUNNING THROUGH SPIKE WITH A LARIAT THAT CAUSES HIM TO DO A 360 IN MID AIR!!!
CORINO HOOKS THE LEG TO FINISH THIS EARLY…1…2…NO!!! SPIKE KICKS OUT!!!
Despite the strong start from Corino, Spike shows tremendous heart and refuses to be out of the match. He fights back and turns it into an even contest, before Corino grabs Spike by the arm, and Irish Whips him into the ropes. When Spike bounces back, Corino impressively Leap Frogs Spike, who then bounces off the opposite ropes. When Spike comes back again, Corino drops to the canvas, forcing Spike to jump over him. Spike’s momentum carries him to the ropes again, and he bounces back one last time, before leaping in the air… looking for a Flying Headbutt in the mid-section… No! Corino sidesteps Spike. Dudley lands on his knees but scrambles to his feet… TURNING STRAIGHT INTO AN STO FROM CORINO!!!
It's a big move from Corino which literally stops Spike in his tracks. On the outside, Big Dick looks concerned but slaps his hands on the canvas, doing all he can to support Spike. Inside the ring, Corino ignores it, bullying Spike back to his feet… AND CORINO LOCKS IN A COBRA CLUTCH!!!
Corino uses his strength advantage to roughly throw Spike around the ring in the hold, and Spike starts to fade. Suddenly, Corino gets ripped off of Spike by Big Dick… AND BIG DICK DUDLEY HOISTS CORINO UP FOR THE CHOKESLAM!!!
NO!!! DUDLEY LETS GO OF CORINO WHEN CW ANDERSON COMES FROM BEHIND WITH A CHOP BLOCK!!!
Favouring his left leg, Big Dick stumbles and limps… RIGHT INTO AN ANDERSON SPINEBUSTER!!!
As this is happening, Spike has recovered and managed to beat Corino to the punch. Corino blocks up high, so Spike unleashes a flurry of punches to the mid-section of Corino. Eventually, Corino is forced to bend over, grabbing at his stomach, allowing Spike to get a grip on his head and neck and run up the ropes… ACID DROP!!!
SPIKE HOOKS THE LEGS…1…2…3!!!
NO!!! CW JUST BREAKS UP THE COUNT!!!
Looking to help his buddy out, CW stays on Spike, dragging him to his feet and hammering away with left hands. CW then sends Spike bouncing off the ropes, and when Spike comes back… ANDERSON SPINEBUSTER!!!
NO!!! SPIKE BREAKS FREE AND LANDS ON HIS FEET!!!
Spike kicks Anderson in the stomach and grabs his head and neck… ACID DROP!!!
NO!!! CW THROWS SPIKE OVER THE TOP ROPE AND OVER THE CROWD BARRICADE!!!
THE FANS ATTMEPT TO BUT FAIL AT CATCHING SPIKE… WHO LANDS TERRIBLY ON THE CONCRETE FLOOR!!!
Despite their obvious concern, the fans can’t help but start up an “ECDUB” chant. Having taken care of business, Anderson checks on Corino, whilst outside the ring, Big Dick has gone over the barricade and after Spike. Big Dick brings Spike back to ringside, by having Spike seated on his shoulders. Just as they get over the barricade… CORINO JUMPS OFF THE TOP ROPE… LANDING A DIVING CLOTHESLINE ON SPIKE…
MEANING SPIKE JUST GOT DRILLED WITH ACCIDENTAL DOOMSDAY DEVICE!!!
“ECDUB” chants reign supreme, Big Dick almost looks in shock, which allows CW to run through him with a Lariat to drop him. With Big Dick taken care of, Corino struggles but gets the dead weight of Spike and rolls him back inside of the ring. Spike’s done for at this point, and Corino simply stalks Spike, BEFORE TEEING OFF WITH THE OLD SCHOOL KICK!!!
CORINO HOOKS THE LEG…1…2…3!!!
Winner: Steve Corino
It’s hard to tell who is more disappointed in the result after the match, the fans or Corino himself. He just sits himself in the corner, shaking his head, looking devastated that it took him so long and he struggled to badly to beat Spike. CW Anderson approaches Corino and pulls him to his feet, trying to get him more upbeat, and Corino signals for the title, although realistically still doesn’t look overly content…
…
For the second time tonight, we’re at the makeshift office of PAUL HEYMAN, where he is yet again sorting through some paperwork. Of course, he is interrupted yet again, except this time he seems pleased at being approached by EDDIE GUERRERO. Eddie and Paul shake hands, with ‘Latino Heat’ laying on his charisma thick, before eventually speaking.
Eddie Guerrero: Look, Paul, I know you wanted to see me, holmes, and I know you’re probably not happy with how my match tonight went, but we go way back, esse. We go way back, vato. Think about what I helped do for you back in 1995.
Eddie smiles at Heyman, but Heyman chuckles to himself.
Paul Heyman: That’s funny, Eddie, I remember it slightly different. I remember giving you the exposure you needed to make it big in the United States. And let me remind you about how you left for WCW at a time I could’ve used you, as well as your buddies Dean and Chris.
Guerrero completely ignores everything Heyman just said, not even reacting to it.
Eddie Guerrero: Anyway, bottom line is Paul, I didn’t sign on with ECW to face jobbers like Monty Brown or has beens like Curt Hennig.
Heyman rolls his eyes, not agreeing with Eddie’s assessment. Yet again, Guerrero pays no attention to Heyman’s reaction.
Eddie Guerrero: Come on, holmes. I’m in my prime and I want true talent…
The owner of ECW nods, finally agreeing with Eddie on something.
Paul Heyman: You are in your prime, Eddie, but I disagree with everything else you said. Monty Brown is true talent and is the future of ECW. I want you to be the now of ECW, but if you keep ducking matches, I’ll have to fire you sooner or later.
For the first time during this conversation, now Eddie’s pissed. He places both hands on Heyman’s desk, leaning over to get closer to Heyman.
Eddie Guerrero: I dare you to fire me, esse.
Heyman waves off the threat from Eddie.
Paul Heyman: Maybe I won’t have to fire you, Eddie. Maybe you’re such a liability that if you keep this shit up, ducking matches and being a coward, Monty might just make you be forced to retire.
Guerrero trembles with rage, but Heyman doesn’t back down.
Paul Heyman: I’ll give you the rest of the night to figure out how you want your time in ECW to play out. Until then, you need to pack up and leave the arena for the night.
‘Latino Heat’ isn’t happy, but he knows to pick his battles. Eddie storms out of the room, leaving Heyman to sigh at his thankless job, and get back to the never ending stack of paperwork…
…
Match Four
Justin Credible vs. The Sandman
On commentary, Joey Styles is really excited for this one, as he talks about the main event for Living Dangerously, and how ECW is basically giving away a pay per view quality match on free TV. These two hated each other beforehand, but would be even more mad at each other after both were unsuccessful at claiming the ECW Championship. Interestingly enough, before the action commenced, THE SANDMAN WENT OVER AT RINGSIDE AND SHOOK THE HAND OF DUSTIN RHODES!!!
The Sandman and Rhodes being friendly in 2001 wasn’t exactly something on my bingo card. Anyway, there’s no feeling out process between these two hated rivals, as they stand nose to nose, both wielding their own trusty Singapore Cane… AND THE MATCH BEGINS WITH SOME DUELLING CANE ACTION!!!
Those famous “ECDUB” chants commence right away, with the crack of Cane against Cane echoing throughout the arena. The two almost comically get into a sword fight type deal, until the Cane battle becomes more of a test of strength. The Sandman gets the advantage, forcing Credible to drop to a knee, now holding his Cane horizontally with both hands. The Sandman remains standing, using all his weight to put pressure on Credible’s Cane, until he takes a step back… AND WHACK… THE SANDMAN DRIVES HIS CANE AS HARD AS HE CAN INTO CREDIBLE’S CANE…
AND BOTH SINGAPORE CANE’S BREAK!!!
“ECDUB” chants ring out for the crazy moment, whilst Credible looks worried at the predicament he’s stuck in here. He attempts to crawl away, now on both knees, but Sandman grabs him in a headlock, whilst picking up one of the broken Canes… SANDMAN BEGINS STABBING THE SKULL OF CREDIBLE WITH THE SHARP, BROKEN END OF THE CANE!!!
All Credible can do is scream in agony, it’s a brutal sight as the fans urge Sandman on. Once he’s done with the stabbing, Sandman drags Credible to his feet, wrapping the broken Cane around his throat… WHITE RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP!!!
THE SANDMAN ROLLS INTO THE COVER…1…2…NO!!! CREDIBLE MANAGES TO GET A SHOULDER UP!!!
The Sandman confirms with the referee, thinking it was a three count. As this is happening, he doesn’t realise that Credible gets his hands on a new, unbroken Singapore Cane, because LANCE STORM has snuck down to ringside and slid it to him. Oblivious to the introduction of the new weapon, Sandman looks to drag Credible back up, but Credible rolls onto his back… AND WALLOPS SANDMAN IN THE SKULL WITH THE CANE!!!
As Credible continues to stomp all over the now fallen Sandman, he barks some instructions to his tag team partner. Storm listens and hunts around ringside, finding a TRASH CAN. Storm slides into the ring and wedges the trash can in between the middle ropes in the corner of the ring. With a deadly plan in mind, Credible drags Sandman to his feet, and towards the corner, before lifting him up… FALLAWAY SLAM SENDS SANDMAN CRASHING INTO THE TRASH CAN!!!
It's a cool spot devised by Credible, and it gets the deserved “ECDUB” chants. Storm now joins Credible in stomping all over the fallen Sandman, UNTIL STORM GETS TRIPPED AND PULLED OUT OF THE RING…
BY DUSTIN RHODES!!!
Rhodes has hopped the barricade, and he’s punching away at Storm with no remorse. Coming to the aid of his friend, Rhodes hammers away on the surprised Storm… AND DUSTIN THEN HITS THE CURTAIN CALL ON THE OUTSIDE!!!
The fans are marking out for Rhodes’ involvement, as a furious Credible leans over the top rope, throwing verbal abuse at Dustin… So Dustin picks up a Singapore Cane… RHODES CRACKS THE CANE OVER THE SKULL OF CREDIBLE!!!
It’s a knockout blow as Credible falls to the canvas, staring up at the arena lights. With the fans at a fever pitch, The Sandman recovers, smirking at Rhodes, before ascending to the top rope… ROLLING ROCK SENTON BOMB CONNECTS!!!
THE SANDMAN JUST REMAINS LYING ON CREDIBLE FOR THE COVER…1…2…3!!!
Winner: The Sandman
The arena is rocking as the bell rings, the fans pretty pumped with the way things went down. The Sandman gets a few moments to enjoy the victory on his own, before Dustin Rhodes comes in and raises Sandman’s hand in victory. The Sandman thanks Rhodes for the assist, as the fans continue to cheer loudly.
Suddenly though, something in Rhodes demeanour changes and he pulls Sandman in close. Dustin begins whispering to Sandman, and the words are inaudible, however the colour completely drains from Sandman’s face.
The Sandman looks confused, shaking his head and pleading with Rhodes to say it again. Dustin once again shares his words with Sandman and Sandman only, however this time he cups his mouth to ensure the cameras can’t pick up what he’s saying.
Whatever the news, The Sandman is shook. He just sort of leaves the ring, no conviction in his movements, looking completely dishevelled. The Sandman heads to the back, with Dustin not to far behind, looking concerned but also oh so mysterious with this entire situation…
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
A pre-taped segment greets us from the break, as we see a burning cross in the middle of a dark field. As the cameras pick up bits of the environment lightened by the blaze, THE HARRIS BROTHERS appear, dressed in their bikie gear.
Ron Harris: A lot of people have been wondering why we joined The Network so let us explain. We joined The Network because they align with our core values, The Network is the definition of white power. The power for our people is something we believe strong in, which is exactly what New Jack is not about obviously.
The twins screw up their faces at the mention of New Jack.
Don Harris: We aren’t discriminating either, we hate all sorts of races. Some are more difficult than others, as some can be dealt with in time.
Don looks over to Ron to take back over.
Ron Harris: We are dealing with New Jack now so to be more specific, as far as blacks go, it’s one or the other. There all two types.
Don holds up his fingers, signifying two.
Don Harris: One is blacks, and the other type is negroes.
I know, controversial again. Sorry, folks, this is the gimmick.
Ron Harris: Both types aren’t good, hell, they should all be exterminated like the Jews were. The only difference is the negroes need to be dealt with quicker and more violently.
Ron cracks his knuckles.
Don Harris: We’re here to save the world really. In a world where a black man could one day become president, that’s not somewhere we want to live. That needs to be prevented ahead of time by taking out knuckle draggers like Nope Jack!
Just as this was getting really awkward, a loud WHOOOOSH sound can be heard, and suddenly, the flaming cross flame dies out. It’s pitch black outside, really difficult to see, when NEW JACK is shown, spraying the cross with a fire extinguisher.
Furious, the brothers go after New Jack… BUT THEY BLINDLY RUN STRAIGHT INTO JACK SPRAYING THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER INTO BOTH OF THEIR EYES!!!
As The Harris Brothers stagger around blindly, JACK NAILS BOTH OF THEM IN THE HEAD WITH THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER!!!
With his enemies down, New Jack stands over them and raises a solitary fist in the air. Jack then looks right into the camera, ready to deliver a message.
New Jack: BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY!!!
It’s quite the sight, New Jack standing over The Harris Brothers in a dark field, as we cut away…
…
Backstage, walking through a hallway is SAMOA JOE, wearing his trusty white gym towel over his head. The same foul look on his face, Joe looks like he’d be ready to fight somebody right now, despite already winning a match tonight. As Joe walks on down the hallway, THE NETWORK is walking the other way. They are accompanying JACK VICTORY ahead of his match, when Joe walks passed. Joe refuses to budge, brushing shoulders rather harshly with CW ANDERSON as he walked past, causing CW to almost stagger into the wall.
Irritated by the moment, CW turns around, grabs Joe from behind, AND ANDERSON THROWS JOE AGAINS THE WALL!!!
CW Anderson: You need to look around, realise who you’re dealing with, and apologise…
Joe ponders it for a moment… BEFORE HEADBUTTING CW INSTEAD!!!
The headbutt breaks CW’s grip on Joe, and the two begin brawling, WITH THE NETWORK QUICKLY INTERVENING AND BREAKING THEM UP…
With both men held back, a flustered CYRUS gets right up in Joe’s face.
Cyrus: Listen, kid, if you want to make a name by being a dick to the Network, that’s a mistake. But you’ve made your bed and now you have to lay in it. Next week, you’ll step up a level in competition and face CW Anderson.
Joe looks right into the eyes of Cyrus, before taking a quick glance at Anderson. Joe then smiles sadistically at them, creeping them both out. He then leaves the scene, placing his towel back over his head and walking away…
…
Match Five
Jack Victory w/The Network vs. Rob Van Dam
On commentary, Joey Styles quickly recaps what went down at Living Dangerously. RVD demanded this match to take place tonight, after Victory interfered, and cost RVD the TV Title at Living Dangerously. Looking for strength in numbers, the entire Network minus Steven Richards, who is booked in the main event, are at ringside. RVD doesn’t seem to mind though as he goes to work on Victory in the early stages. It’s really basic offense from RVD, mainly punches and other arm strikes, as he’s hindered by his left knee being taped up, and suffering with quite an obvious limp.
Out of desperation, the overmatched Victory tries to start working on the leg, but Van Dam’s educated feet are ambidextrous. He reverses anything that Victory throws at him, and it turns out he’s just as sufficient throwing kicks with the other leg. After beating up Victory some more, basically having his way with him, RVD drops Victory close to the corner of the ring, before pulling himself up… SPLIT LEGGED MOONSAULT!!!
“ECDUB” chants ring out for the athletic move, as The Network shout threats from ringside. Hearing the noise, Van Dam doesn’t even go for the pin, instead hobbling across the ring… SUICIDE DIVE FROM RVD TAKES OUT THE NETWORK ON THE OUTSIDE!!!
A big time pop comes from the fans, as RVD hobbles back into the ring… AND HITS THE ROLLING THUNDER ON VICTORY!!!
Getting back to his feet is a battle for RVD, as he limps around, the Suicide Dive looking like it has done further damage to his bad leg. Once he steadies himself though, he looks to impress the fans, pointing at his shoulders with his thumbs so they can chant along, “ROB…VAN…DAM”! RVD then heads up to the top rope… THINKING FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH!!!
NO!!! BEFORE HE CAN COME OFF THE TOP… THE NETWORK STORM THE RING!!!
SO RVD CHANGES TACTIC, AND LEAPS OFF THE TOP… TAKING OUT JERRY LYNN WITH A DIVING KICK!!!
It’s another awkward landing on the leg for RVD, as he’s forced to clutch at his left knee. As RVD straightens back up… HE’S RUN THROUGH WITH A LARIAT BY CW ANDERSON!!!
Now the entire Network swarm like animals, stomping all over the carcass of RVD, much to the dismay of the fans. After a barrage, STEVE CORINO grabs RVD and drags him by the legs to the corner of the ring. ‘The King Of Old School’ then heads to the outside… AND REPEATEDLY SLAMS THE LEFT KNEE OF RVD INTO THE RING POST!!!
All RVD can do is scream in agony, as CW now gets his hands on a STEEL CHAIR… AND CW NAILS CHAIR SHOT AFTER CHAIR SHOT… SANDWICHING RVD’S BAD LEG BETWEEN THE CHAIR AND THE RING POST!!!
Having recovered from the Diving Kick he received, and looking furious about it, now it’s Lynn’s turn to get involved…. LYNN APPLIES A RINGPOST FIGURE FOUR!!!
With The Network just decimating RVD here, referees and officials run down to attempt to break things up. They have their hands full though, as Lynn refuses to relinquish the hold. Meanwhile, back in the ring, Cyrus raises the out of it but on his feet Victory’s hand. It’s not an official victory here tonight, but The Network will classify this as a success…
No Contest
The fans are more in shock than vicious with their heat, as the officials finally manage to convince The Network to stop destroying RVD’s left knee. Van Dam is clearly in a bad way, as ‘Damage Control’ run down, armed with a stretcher.
Even as they try and manoeuvre RVD from outside of the ring and onto the stretcher, the fan favourite yelps in pain. There’s an eerie silence throughout the arena, as RVD is carted off, whilst The Network gleefully watch on from inside the ring…
…
Backstage, SPIKE DUDLEY is lying on a locker room floor, groaning in pain, as BIG DICK DUDLEY stands over him, not exactly the nurturing type. Suddenly, Big Dick looks confused, and even Spike sits up, albeit holding his back, a quizzical look on his face also. It’s because a man The Dudleyz were once very familiar with, JOEL GERTNER has walked into the room.
Joel Gertner: Big Dick… Spike… It has been a long time. I came here to talk to you both face to face because the rumours are afloat. I want to let you know they aren’t just rumours, I want to let you both know the truth. The truth is in just a few weeks’ time, they’re coming home. Your brothers are going to be back to make the family whole once again.
With a confident wink of the eye, Gertner turns and leaves The Dudleyz to share an uncertain look.
Spike Dudley: Brother, does that mean what I think it means?
Big Dick shrugs nonchalantly, not buying into it too much.
Big Dick Dudley: Who knows? I’m a Dudley. You’re a Dudley. Everyone wants to be a Dudley.
The brothers continue to look uncertain as we cut back to ringside…
…
Where standing inside the ring is TOMMY DREAMER, being serenaded with a “HE’S HARDCORE” chant from the die hard fans. Tommy smirks at the crowd response, before raising the mic to his mouth to speak.
Tommy Dreamer: I’m out here tonight because I’m feeling relieved. Not only am I relieved, but I’m feeling good because at Living Dangerously, I was able to close out an unhappy chapter in my life. I’ve finally taken CW Anderson out of my life.
Dreamer pauses to take a breath, the fans listening intently.
Tommy Dreamer: I don’t want to understate it. I’m extremely happy beating CW the way I did at Living Dangerously, but that’s in the past. Now I feel it’s time to set my sights on bigger things, such as the ECW Championship.
Pop from the fans Tommy nods and smirks, wanting that achievement again.
Tommy Dreamer: I’ve been ECW Champion once before but not for anywhere near as long as I would have liked. I beat Taz for the title after the Mike Awesome scandal, and I was on top of the world, only to have it robbed from me minutes later by Justin Credible.
The memory is still painful judging by the expression etched on Dreamer’s face.
Tommy Dreamer: That reign isn’t good enough for me. I don’t want a 20 minute title reign to be my legacy. I want to be remembered as not only one of the most hardcore wrestlers, and the heart and soul of ECW… I want more. I want to have a proper World Title run to boast.
The fans cheer, liking the sound of that. Before Dreamer can continue, “Perfect Strangers” by Deep Purple hits and the fans ERUPT as ‘The Franchise’ SHANE DOUGLAS steps back into the ECW Arena. The tension is automatically there as these two have quite the history, as FRANCINE accompanies Douglas down the ramp. Douglas and the head cheerleader perform their usual entrance, with the fans surprisingly cheering for Douglas. Once in the ring, in typical fashion, Douglas doesn’t wait for the music to stop.
Shane Douglas: CUT THE FUCKING MUSIC!!!
Epic pop from the fans as the production team obliges. Dreamer puts his hands to the side, wondering why Douglas is out here right now.
Shane Douglas: Tommy, Tommy, Tommy, it been to long. You know, it’s crazy to me that with all this time gone, it’s like the ECW Arena is in a time warp. It’s great to see as much as things change, with you, Tommy, they stay the same.
Douglas laughs to himself, whilst Dreamer cocks his head, not liking the tone Douglas is using.,
Shane Douglas: I mean, this new era of ECW has done wonders for the professional wrestling industry. There are tons of new stars in ECW, that’s something we can call out as change.
‘The Franchise’ takes a beat before pointing at Tommy.
Shane Douglas: On the other end of the time warp, poor old Tommy Dreamer is winning matches by the skin of his dick and still bitching for title shots that he really has never done anything to deserve.
There’s the Douglas of old. The fans turn on him in an instant, delivering him some heat.
Shane Douglas: Tommy, hate it or love it, it’s the truth. Your whole life has been made up of failures. A prime example is you had the perfect opportunity to be the sexual god of the ECW locker room by having both Beulah and Kimona. Instead, how long did that last?
Tommy shakes his head, not really caring about that.
Shane Douglas: It wasn’t that much longer than your pathetic ECW Championship run, maybe three weeks tops.
More heat for Douglas.
Shane Douglas: Face the facts, Dreamer. You’re a horrible wrestler, even worse, you’re a piss poor lover, and even worse than that, you’re a sorry excuse for a man.
‘The Franchise’ is really coming on strong now. Tommy is annoyed and looks to rebut, BUT DOUGLAS SLAPS THE MIC OUT OF TOMMY’S HANDS. Oh shit. Dreamer gets right in Douglas’ face now, the rage building within…
Shane Douglas: The truth hurts, Tommy, but that’s enough about you. Let’s talk about somebody these people find interesting, ‘The Franchise’. Even though I made my return just this past Sunday, I’ve been making moves long before that. I’ve been having two people trained to be apart of the NEW Triple Threat.
Dreamer rolls his eyes, but the fans buzz in anticipation.
Shane Douglas: I’ve learned from my previous mistakes. Benoit and Malenko ditched me, they ditched me twice. Looking back, Brian Lee was a mistake, and then in another iteration, Bam Bam and Candido just couldn’t cut it anymore.
Douglas shakes his head when mentioning the standard of Bigelow and Candido.
Shane Douglas: Bam Bam and Candido were so bad WCW didn’t even want them. Talk about scraping the bottom of the barrel, I’m shocked Paul Heyman wasted any of his newfound money on bringing back Chris Candido. I did Heyman a favour when I had Candido taken care of last week thanks to the two men I’ve been training.
Having heard enough, TOMMY SNATCHES THE MIC FROM DOUGLAS. ‘The Franchise’ is in shock but deals with it.
Tommy Dreamer: The two guys are obvious; you spoke to them in the middle of the ring at Living Dangerously. I know exactly who they are and I know that eventually, that time warp will kick in and history will repeat itself. Just like everyone else, just like Benoit, Malenko, Lee, Bigelow, Candido, they’ll outgrow you. They’ll usurp your power and go on to be much bigger stars than you could ever imagine to be.
Big pop from the fans but Douglas shakes his head in disagreement, leaning into the mic.
Shane Douglas: No, that’s impossible.
Tommy takes the mic further away from Douglas.
Tommy Dreamer: I beg to differ. Looking at those two young kids, I can’t see CM Punk or Colt Cabana becoming Vince McMahon’s bitch by pretending to be a teacher.
The fans cheer LOUDLY, as Douglas’ eyes go wide in fury. Even Francine is getting mad.
Tommy Dreamer: I mean, come on. Professor Punk and Counsellor Cabana just don’t have a good ring to it. On the other hand, Dean Douglas? Wow, now there’s a keeper, that sounds like money. There’s something HARDCORE that the Franchise can live by.
Douglas kicks the ropes in anger, but Tommy holds his finger in the air as if to say there’s more.
Tommy Dreamer: Oh and there’s a saying about not throwing stones if you live in a glass house. And as far as lovers go, you should keep your mouth shut. Woman left you, that’s one, Kimona left you, that’s two, and even Francine has left you before.
Oh. Douglas shoots Francine a quick look, and she’s not happy with being put on the spot like that.
Tommy Dreamer: It sounds to me like everything you said about me applies to you as well. The only thing that’s different between us is I am a real man, and that’s something you can never be.
The fans are cheering like crazy and Douglas is furious… UNTIL TOMMY GETS CLOBBERED FROM BEHIND BY CM PUNK AND COLT CABANA!!!
The boos are loud as Douglas encourages them, and his two proteges beat the shit out of Tommy. Punk eventually brings Dreamer to his feet, only to send him off the ropes… RIGHT INTO THE FLYING ASSHOLE FROM CABANA!!!
With Tommy down, Punk quickly locks in a .45 SPECIAL, and keeps it locked in, as Cabana ascends to the top rope… GULLIOTINE LEG DROP RIGHT ACROSS TOMMY’S THROAT!!!
A beaming Douglas watches on, as does Francine, as Punk looks to pay tribute to his new mentor, dragging Tommy up… AND NAILING A FRANCHISER!!!
Smirking, Colt now drags Tommy up… DELIVERING A FRANCHISER OF HIS OWN!!!
Tommy is damn near out cold and the fans inside the ECW Arena are livid. Douglas stands in between the two youngsters, raising their hands in the air, with Francine applauding. Douglas now steps away from the youngsters, showering them with some more applause, before FLASHING THE TRIPLE THREAT SIGN AT THEM!!!
Douglas chuckles and tells them, “SOON ENOUGH, IT WILL BE TIME”!!!
And with Tommy in trouble and this powerful heel group celebrating, we cut to a break…
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
Before the main event, we’re back at The Eagle’s Nest where JOEY STYLES welcomes the viewers back, before strangely stopping mid-sentence. Out of nowhere, a smiling JOEL GERTNER has joined Joey in his usual position, placing a headset on, as casual as ever.
Joel Gertner: Hey, Joey, what did I miss?
Styles isn’t happy.
Joey Styles: I’m not even going to bother trying to catch you up. It’s ridiculous you get paid to miss shows like you do.
Gertner rolls his eyes at Joey’s response.
Joel Gertner: Who’s missing shows? I’m here, aren’t I?
Joey no sells Gertner’s comment.
Joey Styles: Anyway, we’re about to head to the ring for our main event, where former friends, Raven and Steven Richards will go at it, and if Raven loses, he’ll no longer be in the ECW Championship Match at Barely Legal.
…
Match Six
Raven vs. Steven Richards
This one is plenty personal so despite the whole strength in numbers strategy The Network often uses, it isn’t happening here. Richards is surprisingly out alone, and once in the ring, Raven and Richards have a long, tense stare down. Looking at his former friend with disgust, RICHARDS SLAPS RAVEN ACROSS THE FACE…
BUT RAVEN IMMEDIATELY RETALIATES WITH A SLAP OF HIS OWN!!!
The two get into a slap battle, but Richards gets a kick to the gut to take the advantage. After landing a few right hands, Richards sends Raven into the ropes, and when Raven comes back… STEVEN KICK!!!
NO!!! RAVEN DUCKS…
And continues running, bouncing off the opposite ropes, RAVEN COMES BACK AND LANDS A DIVING KNEE DROP BULLDOG ON RICHARDS!!!
RAVEN GOES FOR THE PIN…1…2…NO!!! RICHARDS KICKS OUT WITH EASE!!!
Now Raven is able to just go nuts on Richards, unleashing right hands, trying to beat the sellout out of him. After beating Richards like a mad man, Raven heads to the outside, grabbing himself a STEEL CHAIR. Once he returns to the ring, Raven sets up the chair in a seated position. Raven casually sits in the chair, waiting for Richards to get up, and when he does, Raven gets up… DROP TOE HOLD ONTO THE CHAIR!!!
NO!!! RICHARDS UNLOCKS HIMSELF OUT OF THE HOLD…
AND IMMEDIATELY KICKS THE CHAIR AWAY!!!
This garners heat from the fans, but being distracted with the chair isn’t good for Richards. Raven meets him with a kick to the gut, before grabbing his head… EVENFLOW DDT!!!
NO!!! STEVEN MANAGES TO PUSH RAVEN AWAY!!!
After staggering backwards a couple of steps, Raven charges forward… RIGHT INTO THE STEVEN KICK!!!
RICHARDS HOOKS THE LEG…1…2…NO!!! RAVEN JUST GETS A SHOULDER UP!!!
A lot of men have fallen to that move, but Raven somehow keeps his World Title aspirations alive. A devilish smirk on his face now though, Richards picks up the dazed Raven… AND NAILS A DOUBLE KNEE FACEBREAKER!!!
There’s no pinfall attempt this time, as Richards climbs to the top rope, amongst the fans stunned silence. Richards leaps off the top… DIVING SPLASH!!!
NO!!! RAVEN ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY!!!
Richards grabs at his mid-section, feeling pretty uncomfortable after the bad landing. Raven gets back to his feet and approaches his former friend… BUT STEVEN SNATCHES A SMALL PACKAGE OUT OF NOWHERE…1…2…NO!!! RAVEN ESCAPES!!!
As they scramble to their feet, a frustrated Raven grabs the steel chair from earlier… SMASHING IT ACROSS THE SKULL OF RICHARDS!!!
Raven drops the chair, enjoying the “ECDUB” chants for the first time in a long time. He hoists the dead weight of Richards up, applying a Crossface Chicken wing, and using it to drag Richards across the ring. Once standing in front of the steel chair, Raven repositions himself… FRONT RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP SENDS RICHARDS FACE FIRST INTO THE CHAIR!!!
The match is probably over if he wants it to be, but Raven doesn’t go for the cover. Instead, he grabs Richards’ legs, spreading them… RAVEN DROPS A FIST DROP RIGHT INTO RICHARDS’ NUTS!!!
As Richards rolls around in agony, Raven grabs the steel chair once more. Now he spreads Richards legs again… THIS TIME RAVEN STABS THE TOP OF THE BACK REST OF THE CHAIR INTO STEVEN’S GROIN!!!
Every male in the crowd gasps at the move, as Richards rolls around in agony. A close up of Richards shows he now has a small cut on his forehead as well, blood trickling from it. As Raven stands over his former friend, planning his next move, Richards gets on his knees. Richards clasps his hands together, begging for forgiveness, “STOP, STOP, PLEASE, I’M SORRY… FORGIVE ME… I’LL COME BACK TO YOU”!!!
Raven hesitates for the slightest moment, before pressing forward… BUT RICHARDS GETS A LOW BLOW OF HIS OWN OUT OF NOWHERE!!!
Whilst Raven goes down, this allows Richards time to recover after the one sided beatdown he’s been on the wrong side of for the past few minutes. Having recouped enough, Richards grabs Raven… AND HITS A ROCKER DROPPER ON TOP OF THE STEEL CHAIR!!!
Steven now stands over Raven, signalling for the Stevie-T, before grabbing a hold of Raven… BUT RAVEN EXPLODES WITH A NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX OUT OF NOWHERE!!!
RAVEN SURPRISINGLY MAINTAINS THE BRIDGE… SHOWING GREAT TECHNIQUE…1…2…3!!!
Winner: Raven
It’s a massive reaction from the fans for Raven’s first win in his first match in ECW in years. He gets up, feeling a little worse for wear, rubbing his head, before busting out the famous ‘Raven pose’. Holding his arms out to his side, Raven looks every bit the winner, whilst Richards holds his face in his hands, still struggling on the canvas.
After what feels like an eternity, Raven allows for the referee to raise his hand in victory, but as this is happening, RAVEN GETS WHIPPED IN THE BACK WITH THE ECW CHAMPIONSHIP…
BY STEVE CORINO!!!
Corino snuck down to ringside behind Raven’s back, taken the title from the timekeeper’s table, and now delivered a killer blow. The blow causes Raven to fall to his knees, placing a hand on his back were the belt connected, and Corino walks around Raven… AND SMASHES THE TITLE INTO HIS FACE!!!
With a sinister look on his face, Corino turns his attention towards Richards and barks out some instructions. Richards is back up, and locks in the Rat Trap, holding Raven in a position so he can face Corino. In this position, it’s easy to see that Corino has Raven busted wide open.
Corino drops to his knees in front of Raven, holding the ECW Title in front of Raven’s face and screaming at him…
“YOU SHOULD’VE STAYED IN THE LOVING ARMS OF VINCE MCMAHON BECAUSE ECW IS NOT HARDCORE ANYMORE AND ITS NOT FOR PEOPLE LIKE YOU ANYMORE… QUOTE CORINO… NEVERMORE~!”
Raven is still in a defenceless position, but before more can go down, “Extreme” hits over the pa system. Meaning business, PAUL HEYMAN steps out onto the stage, immediately interrupting proceedings, and speaking over the cheering crowd.
Paul Heyman: Steven Richards, if you know what’s good for you, you’ll get off of Raven right now.
A concerned look appears on Richards’ face, so he lets Raven go. Meanwhile, Corino remains in possession of the ECW Title, standing tall and proud.
Paul Heyman: Play time is over. I hope you both had fun because next week will be a different story.
Corino doesn’t look as cocky as he did a moment ago.
Paul Heyman: Next week, yes, as per the ECW Championship match at Barely Legal arrangement, Raven will have another match. But as per that agreement, so will you, Steve Corino.
The fans begin to murmur in anticipation, as Corino begins looking around, worried.
Paul Heyman: To give you adequate time to prepare, at this time, because I’m a fair man, I’d like to introduce you to your opponent… CURT HENNIG!!!
No music hits or anything but the fans mark out, as CURT HENNIG comes out and stands next to Heyman. Chewing on his gum like only he can, Hennig stands with his hands on hips, smiling away. Hennig looks around the arena, with the fans going nuts, and spits his gum, before slapping it away. The connection of hand and gum is perfect, and Hennig follows that up with tossing his towel up in the air and catching it behind his back.
The fans LOVE it as Corino is flipping his lid inside the ring. Richards tries to calm Corino down, but isn’t having much success. Suddenly, a blood Raven returns to his feet and looks to grab Corino, but Corino shrugs Raven off, dropping the ECW Title in the process, and escapes the ring. Richards isn’t so lucky as Raven pops him with a boot to the gut, FOLLOWED BY AN EVENFLOW DDT ON A STEEL CHAIR!!!
It's chaos and it is awesome. A blood soaked and dishevelled Raven stands tall in the ‘Raven Pose’, once again holding onto the ECW Championship. Much like Living Dangerously, the last shot in ring we get is of Raven standing tall, looking every bit of the ECW Champion…
…
That would be a nice ending visual, but this is Hardcore TV, which means it’s PULP FICTION~! Time, baby. The first man we see, standing in front of the ECW banner in the back is SAMOA JOE. Towel draped over his head; Joe looks just as intense as every other time we’ve seen him on our screens.
Samoa Joe: CW Anderson… Joe’s gonna’ kill you!
That’s all from Joe, who keeps giving a vicious, scary look into the camera, before we cut away…
…
Having taken over a concession stand somewhere inside the arena; DON WEST is wielding one of the steel chairs that Sid used to destroy The Chair Swingin’ Freaks earlier tonight.
Don West: Anybody want this SUPER AWESOME steel chair? It’s only half price, because it’s already been BROKEN IN HALF!!!
West laughs like a true villain, whilst SID remains stoic in the background. Fans walk past the stand but show no interest in the steel chair.
Don West: Okay, fine. I could look into selling the man, but first we’ve got to ask the age old question. Who’s the man?
Sid: I’M THE MAN!!!
The two then share a fist bump, West laughing hysterically as Sid looks as scary as ever…
…
Inside a locker room, TOMMY DREAMER is lying on the floor, grimacing in pain, but still willing to spit some knowledge.
Tommy Dreamer: Shane Douglas… Second City Saints…Enjoy this moment because it won’t happen again. I now understand that things have changed and I can’t come alone when people are out for my head.
On cue, Tommy rubs his head, suffering from bumps and bruises.
Tommy Dreamer: What that means is that next week, it won’t just be me on my own. I’m bringing backup, and Shane, it’s not going to please you one bit.
Despite the grimacing and the pain, there’s an intriguing look of confidence on the face of Dreamer…
…
Another locker room door opens and closes and stepping out of the room is DUSTIN RHODES. He notices the camera immediately, and understands people may have some questions.
Dustin Rhodes: Okay, I can give an update on my friend. The Sandman is fine right now, but he’s got a lot on his plate. He’s having some real personal problems.
Dustin looks down on the ground, looking rather sombre.
Dustin Rhodes: It’s my duty as a true friend, to remain by his side. I’m here for Sandman until my job is done.
Short and sharp from Rhodes, and it’s still all rather mysterious to…
…
We’re back at the ECW logo backed interview set, where the PHENOMENAL ANGELS, AJ STYLES and CHRISTOPHER DANIELS are standing by.
Christopher Daniels: We were sitting in the back watching the show on a monitor, and we saw LAX’s challenge.
AJ nods in agreement.
Christopher Daniels: Well, be careful what you wish for boys because we accept. We’re going to send you two and the entire Latino Nation straight to hell.
AJ rubs his hands together in excitement.
AJ Styles: Yes, we are…
Erm, thanks AJ. The two youngsters definitely look ready for a big time tag team match next week…
…
Another promo recorded in front of the ECW banner, this time it’s a pissed off EDDIE GUERRERO.
Eddie Guerrero: I can’t believe this. I came back to ECW for this MIERDA…
He shakes his head in disgust.
Eddie Guerrero: I said it earlier and I’ll double down on it again now to; Monty Brown is a jobber. I’m done with him, as a matter of fact, I’m not wrestling again ‘til I get some gringos and some esse’s that are real superstars…
‘Latino heat’ thinks for a few seconds.
Eddie Guerrero: You know, stars like CHRISTIAN YORK… stars like, uh, PSICOSIS, and uh, especially stars like RUCKUS..
Guerrero is being dead serious even if what he is saying is ludicrous. He then punches his chest and lets out a little shimmy.
Eddie Guerrero: ODALAY!!!
Eddie stares into the camera, true in his convictions before we cut away…
…
We now head to another area within the ECW Arena, where an irritated looking STEVE CORINO stands.
Steve Corino: I was so close to finally being in possession of the ECW Championship. I dropped the belt in the ring and I’m pissed.
He shakes his head, almost looking like he’s angry at himself.
Steve Corino: Surprisingly though, I’m not pissed that the loser Raven has my title in his grubby little hands. I’m pissed off that I have to face Curt Hennig because Curt was a childhood hero of mine. I’m not going to lie; Mr. Perfect was awesome.
Almost a sad smile appears on the face of the ‘King Of Old School.
Steve Corino: Despite all that, a man’s got to do what a man’s got to do. Next week, I can promise you one thing. It’s not going to be so perfect for the son of Larry the Ax, I promise.
That’s all from Corino, who now seems in a much better mindset about his match next week than he was earlier…
…
Our final vision is of RAVEN, still bloody and bruised, but still holding onto the ECW Championship.
Raven: Quote the Raven… Nevermore!
And the show comes to a close with Raven holding the ECW Championship, a title he’ll hope too legally own after Barely Legal…
*END OF SHOW*
ECW Hardcore TV 400th Episode
March 16th, 2001
New York City, New York
Hammerstein Ballroom
Curt Hennig vs. Steve Corino
Raven vs. ?
Tag Team Match:
Latin American Xchange vs. Phenomenal Angels
CW Anderson vs. Samoa Joe
ECW World Tag Team Championship Match:
The Unholy Alliance (c) defends against Danny Doring and Roadkill
…
ECW Barely Legal
April 15th, 2001
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
ECW Arena
ECW World Heavyweight Championship Match:
Raven vs. Steve Corino
