WCW 2001: A Wrestling Odyssey

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

In 2001, WCW suffered a major change when AOL Time Warner determined it was time to sell the Wrestling Company they didn’t want. Not only was WCW on the market for a new buyer, but soon AOL also announced that WCW programming would be cancelled as of April 1, 2001. WCW had two potential buyers in Vince McMahon and Eric Bischoff. A war of money started between the two sides. Ultimately WCW Nitro aired for the last time on March 26, 2001 and the fate of the company was yet to be sealed by the end of the show. Who owns WCW? What will happen to the company who was the leader in the pro wrestling industry for half the decade?

Following the March 26, 2001 edition of Nitro, WCW went black. The websites, the news reports, everything in the company shut down without any notice. Fans were confused by the fate of the company they once loved.

June 1, 2001 WCW.com relaunched with the WCW Slamboree Logo. Under the logo was a clock counting down to 8:00 PM EST on Saturday, June 30, 2001. At the bottom of the page it says “It all begins again live from Charlotte, NC and only on Pay-Per-View.”

Tickets went on sale the same day for WCW in Charlotte, and following the news on WCW.com Charlotte was sold out by June 5.



In the weeks leading up to WCW Slamboree; WCW.com uploaded more information on their website. The updates occurred everyday at 12:00 noon with fans making it a ritual to head over to WCW.com. So many fans started going to the website at noon that WCW.com started crashing on a frequent basis. The updates included the talent roaster, the championship titles, and their history.


WCW.com UPDATES

AJ Styles
Alex Wright
Big Vito
Billy Kidman
Booker T
Brian Adams
Brian Clarke
Buff Bagwell
Chavo Guerrero
Christopher Daniels
Chris Kanyon
Chuck Polumbo
Curt Henning
Diamond Dallas Paige
Disqo Inferno
Don Harris
Goldberg
Jeff Jarrett
Johnny the Bull
Juventud Guerrera
Lex Luger
Mark Jindrack
Psychosis
Rey Mysterio Jr.
Ric Flair
Rick Steiner
Scott Steiner
Sean O’Haire
Shane Douglas
Shane Helms
Shannon Moore
Shawn Stasiak
Sting
Vampiro

Charles Robinson
Slick Johnson
Nick Patrick

Arn Anderson
David Penzer
Dusty Rhodes
Fit Finlay
Jeremy Borash
Mean Gene Oakerlund
Rowdy Roddy Piper
Tony Schaivone

WCW Heavyweight Championship of the World: Vacant
WCW United States Championship: Vacant
WCW Television Championship: Vacant
WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Vacant
WCW World Tag Team Championship: Vacant

The final updates made to WCW.com in the week leading up to the June 30^th Pay-Per-View include details concerning WCW Monday Nitro. WCW Nitro is slated to air on Monday, July 2, 2001 at 9:00 PM EST on USA Network live from Greensboro NC. WCW.com announces that Nitro will be hosted by Rowdy Roddy Piper, and the new WCW Heavyweight Champion of the World will be on hand.

WCW spends a lot of money in the week leading up to their return pay-per-view and programming by building on their marketing campaign. Billboards with the WCW Slamboree logo are put up all around North America, while commercials for the Pay-Per-View air during most sport shows and also on WWF’s television programming. TSN is announced to be the network airing WCW Nitro in Canada while Sky promotes the show in the UK. Magazine ads are in most fitness magazines and other men magazines. The market is completely saturated with news the WCW is returning.

Stay Tuned For the Announcement of the Main Event for WCW Slamboree 2001

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING
AND SNICKERS PRESNT



Live From Charlotte, North Carolina
Saturday, June 30, 2001



KEN SHAMROCK VS. BILL GOLDBERG



WCW HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
OF THE WORLD


6 MAN GAUNTLET FOR THE GOLD
RIC FLAIR/BOOKER T/SCOTT STEINER/BUFF BAGWELL/STING/CURT HENNING


WCW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP


JUVENTUD GUERRERA VS. REY MYSTERIO JR.


WCW WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP


KRONIK VS. TO BE ANNOUNCED

[The Mac]

very cool will be watching out for this

[DramaShark]

Awesome, I love WCW but the WCW creatives never seem to last. Hope this one does.

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

World Championship Wrestling
And Snickers Present
WCW SLAMBOREE 2001
Live From Charlotte, North Carolina
June 30, 2001

The Metallic WCW Logo flashes on the screen prior to the pay-per-view starting. With no extra video or theme music, the cameras go to a black screen in Charlotte, North Carolina. A huge pyro display goes off and the WCW Slamboree set lights up with a huge video tron setup on top of the WCW Slamboree logo. Spot lights flash from the set around the arena as about 15,000 fans fill the Charlotte Coliseum.

Tony
What a huge night this is going to be for fans here in World Championship Wrestling. A new day has dawned. Welcome everyone to WCW Slamboree 2001; I’m Tony Schiavone here at ringside calling all the action. One of the big questions that fans have been asking is WHO OWNS WCW? Hopefully tonight we will find out.

“Great Gate of Kiev” plays and Jerry “The King” Lawler comes out. The fans in Charlotte jump to their feet as the King heads down to the ringside broadcast booth where he joins Tony Schiavone.

TonyI can’t believe what I’m seeing; Jerry “The King” Lawler is here in World Championship Wrestling. Welcome to WCW King.

King
The Pleasure’s all yours Tony. The one and only king of professional wrestling has finally done what I have always wanted to do. I’m here in WCW.

Tony
It’s truly an honour to have you here with us.

King
I have been waiting for this opportunity for a long time Schiavone, and now the King has arrived and WCW is on the road to success.

Tony
It’s been three months since we shut the doors on our last chapter, and now tonight here on pay-per-view we kick things off with you making your first WCW appearance.

King
Tonight is going to be a night full of surprises. If you haven’t had the chance to order a WCW pay-per-view before, this is definitely the one you want to see. Ken Shamrock is here in WCW and will be debuting tonight, and do you know who he’s going to be facing?

Tony
I have no idea, I didn’t even know Shamrock was in WCW.

King
Tonight Ken Shamrock is going to wrestle Bill Goldberg. The World’s Most Dangerous Man against the man simply called GOLDBERG. I can’t wait.

Tony
Let’s send things to the ring with David Penzer.

David Penzer stands in the ring and introduces the first match for WCW Slamboree.

WCW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Rey Mysterio vs. Juventud GuerreraBoth men return to WCW with their signature masks, and immediately make their impact in WCW. Mysterio gets a huge reaction from the crowd in Charlotte and as always remains a fan favourite. Juvi gets a mixed reaction as Tony and the King refer to this match as a classic cruiserweight match that put this company on the map. The two of them move around the ring following the bell, and finally lock up in the middle of the ring. An arm drag sends Juvi to the canvas and Rey Mysterio follows up with a wrist lock. Juvi gets to his feet and reverses the wrist lock with a series of flips. Mysterio falls to the canvas and kicks Juvi in the jaw. The two of them get back to their feet and continue to lock up in the ring. Mysterio whips Juvi across the ring and leap frogs over him. A head scissors sends Juvi flying to the ground and onto the outside of the ring. Mysterio hits a baseball slide and knocks Guerrera onto the floor, then springboards with moonsault off the top rope. Mysterio lands on Juvi and the crowd in Charlotte go wild. The match continues inside the ring with Mysterio climbing to the top rope. Juvi gets to his feet and drop kicks the feet of Rey off the rope. Juvi climbs to the top and hits a hurricanrana off the top rope. Rey falls to the canvas and Juvi covers him for a 1...2...kickout. The match continues with both cruiserweights continually trying to out manoeuvre each other. Juventud hits a Juvi driver and covers Rey, but Mysterio kicks out once again before three. They both get back to their feet and finally, Mysterio dropkicks Juventud onto the ground. Mysterio hits a West Coast Pop and is able to cover Juventud for the 1....2...3.
NEW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION, Rey Mysterio Jr. @ 9:15

Mysterio is handed the WCW Cruiserweight Championship and raises it high in the air. This is his sixth title reign in WCW. Mysterio climbs to the top rope with his championship then leaves the area.

Backstage,
JB Jeremy Borash is standing by with Big Poppa Pump Scott Steiner

Jeremy
Hello everyone, JB Jeremy Borash is here with a man who is determined to walk out of the building tonight as the NEW World Heavyweight Champion; I’m talking about Big Poppa Pump Scott Steiner.

Scott
Shut your mouth and listen up JB cause I don’t care what you have to say. Big Poppa Pump is the Mack Daddy of WCW. I’m the Genetic Freak around here. The ladies are flocking from all over to get a show, and after being out for 3 months I’m determined to make a statement tonight in Charlotte. I’m going to walk out of here the new world champion.

JeremyI understand that tonight’s main event has some pretty stiff competition for you since you have to successfully defeat 5 other men here in Charlotte.

Scott
It’s been a long time since WCW has had a gauntlet style match, and I’ve been successful before in coming out on top. Tonight’s going to be no different because Big Poppa Pump is your hook up; holla’ if ya hear me!

Steiner poses before JB and the interview booth.

Back in the arena, Tony Schiavone and Jerry Lawler talk about the Gauntlet for the Gold tonight.

Tony
What a unique Gauntlet Match we have tonight. 5 matches will occur throughout the night with the final one determining the man who will leave as the WCW Heavyweight Champion of the World.

King
This definitely is a unique set of circumstances to be in because normally you would wrestle in a tournament. A wrestler would win three matches and then call it a day, but in order to be the champion tonight if you’re at the start of the gauntlet you will have to win all five matches. The first two competitors are at a huge disadvantage.

Tony
We know that Scott Steiner, Sting, Ric Flair, Booker T, Curt Henning, and Buff Bagwell are all competing in tonight’s gauntlet; it’s a matter of who will wrestle in what order. The Gauntlet for the Gold is going to be very unique.

King
I can’t wait for this tonight start. Let’s go back to David Penzer.

GAUNTLET FOR THE GOLD Match 1
WCW Heavyweight Championship of the World
Booker T vs. Buff BagwellBoth men come down as fan favourites for this contest and receive a warm reaction. Booker T was the last man recognized as the WCW Champion so in order for him to once again prove that he’s worthy to be champion he must beat all five other men in the gauntlet match. Booker kicks of the match with a lock up against Buff Bagwell. Buff is backed into a corner and referee Slick Johnson starts the five count. Booker lets go of the lock up at 3 and backs off. They lock up again in the ring, but this time Buff Bagwell is in control as he knees Booker in the mid section then whips him shoulder first into the ring post. Bagwell receives a lot of heat from the crowd as he poses for them then continues to work on Booker’s shoulder. Bagwell pulls on Booker’s sore arm, trying to pull it out of his socket. The former champion retaliates with a knife edged chop on Buff Bagwell. Buff whips Booker across the ring and sends him to the canvas with a shoulder block. Buff follows up with a snapmare and covers Booker for a 1...2...kickout. The match continues with Bagwell in control. Buff drives a knee across the sore shoulder of Booker T. From there Buff slaps the head lock on the former champion. Booker fights out of the hold and whips Bagwell across the ring. Booker follows through with a spin kick and Bagwell is sent to the canvas. Picking up momentum in the match, Booker follows through with a series of clotheslines that keep Buff to the canvas, and then Booker T whips him into the corner. The former champion climbs to the top rope and starts dropping right hands on the side of Bagwell’s head. By the 5^th right hand, Buff grabs a hold of Booker and pulls him off of the ropes, driving him to the canvas with an atomic drop. Buff climbs to the top rope and dives off with a Buff Blockbuster, but Booker manages to move and Bagwell falls to the canvas. Booker does the spinaroonie and follows through with the Book End. The former champion covers Buff for the 1...2...3.
WINNER, Booker T @ 10:41

Booker T favour’s his shoulder following the pin, but is still able to celebrate his win with the crowd in Charlotte. Booker leaves the ring and is joined by Mean Gene half way up the aisle.

Mean Gene
What a way to kick off the Gauntlet for the Gold with a huge victory over Buff Bagwell. You must be proud of your efforts so far tonight.

Booker TBuff Bagwell was quite a tough competitor, but Booker is here for one reason and one reason only. You see on the last WCW Monday Nitro, I became the WCW Heavyweight Champion, now I have to fight for it all over again. Do you know what it feels like to earn something only to have it taken away?

Mean GeneWell, that’s what happens Booker.

Booker T
That’s been happening to me all my life. No matter how hard I have worked for something, as soon as I turn around it’s taken away. That’s bullsh** Gene. Once I prove that I’m deserving of that WCW belt, there ain’t nobody going to take it away from me again.

Booker is nailed from behind by Scott Steiner and the lead pipe. Steiner strikes the pipe across the shoulder of Booker T, forcing him to collapse onto the ground. Steiner beats Booker T with the pipe in a very viscous assault, then with the pipe against Booker T’s throat, Steiner chokes Booker in the Steiner recliner. Security race down and pull Steiner off, but the damage has already been done and Big Poppa Pump leaves the ring area.

Tony Schiavone and Jerry Lawler continue their commentary on the situation between Steiner and Booker and how this might affect the Gauntlet for the Gold.

Video
Tomorrow Night, the most electrifying, unpredictable, anticipated program in professional wrestling history returns. WCW Monday Nitro comes to you live from Greensboro Coliseum. The greatest wrestlers in the world today collide in the ring for what promises to be a very historic night. Hosted by the Legendary Rowdy Roddy Piper, who will emerge from Slamboree as the New WCW Heavyweight Champion of the World? And after making his debut on pay-per-view what will Ken Shamrock have to say to the WCW fans? Tune in this Monday on USA Live 9:00 PM EST.
Back inside the arena, fans eagerly await the following contest. David Penzer makes the official announcement.

WCW WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
Road Warriors vs. KronikRoad Warrior Hawk and Animal remerge in World Championship Wrestling, with a huge reaction from the Charlotte crowd. Driving out on Harleys LOD make their way down the aisle, before driving around the ring; they park their bikes in the aisle then climb into the ring. Kronik are the next team to come out and receive a very poor ovation from Charlotte. The fans are solidly behind Hawk and Animal as they chant “LOD” repeatedly. The match kicks off with Hawk and Brian Adams. Adams drives a series of right across the face of Hawk, backing him into the corner. An Irish whip sends Hawk across the ring. Adams charges after and drives a hard clothesline across the chest of Hawk. The former WCW Tag Champions isolate Hawk from Animal and continue to beat him down in the corner. Animal attempts to get involved, but Charles Robinson keeps in him the corner, allowing for the double team to continue. Adams sends Hawk to the canvas with a chokeslam. A pin attempt finds Hawk kicking out by the two count. Both Adams and Clark get in the ring and whip Hawk across the ropes. The Road Warrior ducks under a clothesline and follows through with a double clothesline of his own. Soon the tag is made to Animal and all hell breaks loose. Animal takes out both members of Kronik before whipping Adams over the top rope. Road Warrior Animal sets his sights on Clark and starts pounding hard right kicks into the sternum of Brian Clark. Animal picks him up and whips him across the ring, following through with a drop kick. Adams gets back in the ring, but is met with a far away slam from Animal. The Road Warriors show their dominance now in the match. Hawk and Animal double team Clark in the corner before Animal drives him down with a back breaker. Hawk meanwhile starts working on the outside of the ring on Adams. Just as Animal is about to pin Clark, Jimmy Hart races down to the ring with his megaphone in hand; he distracts the referee long enough for Clark to get back to his feet. Clark grabs the megaphone that Hart left on the apron and uses it on Animal. Clark covers Road Warrior Animal for the 1...2...3.
NEW WCW WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS, Kronik @ 9:22
Kronik and Jimmy Hart celebrate their championship victory by taking the belts and racing up the ramp. Hawk checks in on his partner before cursing Kronik and the Mouth of the South.

Backstage,
Ken Shamrock is shown entering the arena. The fans inside the Charlotte Coliseum give him a great reaction while watching on the videotron.

Also backstage, Goldberg’s security is shown outside his door.

Tony
We still have two of the toughest men in profession wrestling squaring off here tonight at Slamboree; Bill Goldberg and Ken Shamrock. I’ve been waiting for a long time to see this.

King
You have the World’s Dangerous Man and what many believe is the World’s Baddest Man competing here tonight. I for one am putting my money on Ken Shamrock.

Tony
We also have another exciting contest coming up later tonight with two of WCW’s youngest and most exciting wrestlers today squaring off. Its AJ Styles verses Christopher Daniels later on tonight.

David Penzer announces the next contest for WCW Slamboree

GAUNTLET FOR THE GOLD Match 2
WCW Heavyweight Championship of the World
Booker T vs. Big Poppa Pump Scott Steiner
Big Poppa Pump struts his stuff as he heads on down to the ring. The Big Bad Booty Daddy poses for the crowd as he waits for Booker T to make his entrance. Booker, injured earlier in the show by Scott Steiner isn’t able to come out to the ring. After playing his opening music 3 times, referee Nick Patrick starts the 10 count. Booker is unable to make the count and ultimately is counted out.
WINNER, Scott Steiner @ 0.11
Scott Steiner is awarded the victory of the match and moves on to the next Gauntlet Match. Steiner, gloating his victory asks for the microphone.

Scott
You see all my freaks, if you want to be successful in life you have to take out anyone who stands in your way. That chump black ass thinks he has what it takes to be the World Champion, but I proved him wrong just like I’m going to prove everyone else wrong. I defy anyone who thinks they have what it takes to beat me tonight.

Out of nowhere, a man in a black ski mask climbs into the ring with a baseball bat. The mystery man hits Scott Steiner in the back of the head with the bat then orders the referee to call for the bell.

GAUNTLET FOR THE GOLD Match 3
WCW Heavyweight Championship of the World
Big Poppa Pump Scott Steiner vs. Mystery Man
The mystery man slaps the figure four leg lock on Scott Steiner. Knocked out from the hit from the baseball bat, Steiner isn’t able to break out of the hold. The referee raises his arm off the ground three times, and all three times Steiner’s arm falls back down. The referee calls for the bell. The mystery man pulls off his mask to reveal his true identity.
WINNER, Nature Boy Ric Flair @ 1:00

The Nature Boy receives a huge pop from the Charlotte Fans as “Also Sprach Zarathustra” plays. Flair raises his hands in the air as fans give a “WOOOOOOO” to him. Mean Gene Oakerlund climbs into the ring.

Mean Gene
I know that you were part of this Gauntlet Match, but what a way to make an entrance.

Ric
WOOOOOOO Mean Gene WOOOOOOO Oakerlund! The Nature Boy is back in Flair country. You are standing in the house that Naitch built. (Fans continue with the huge response). This right here is what WCW is all about. I’ve shown the world time and time again that to be the man you have to beat the man! I’ve held the Heavyweight Championship of the World 14 times, more than anyone else in the history of this business, and tonight I’m going to make history again. The Nature Boy is going to walk out of here the WOOOOO 15 Time World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion.

Mean Gene
In order to do that my friend you have to now defeat both Sting and Curt Henning; two men you have a history with.

Ric
What you fail to understand is this; the Nature Boy has done it before. I’ve been to the top of the mountain many times. Space Mountain is exclusive to the Nature Boy. Tonight it’s going to be no different. I’m going to beat Sting, and I’m going to beat Curt Henning. When it’s all said and done I’ll be stylin’ profilin’ because WOOOOO baby, the Nature Boy is now and always will be... THE MAN....WOOOOOOO

“Also Sprach Zarathustra” plays and Flair leaves the ring.

Mean Gene
Alright gentlemen, let’s head backstage to JB Jeremy Borash.

Backstage,
JB is standing with AJ Styles.

Jeremy
Hello again everyone, JB Jeremy Borash here again; this time with my guest; a man who refers to himself by one word...PHENOMENAL. I’m talking about AJ Styles. AJ, I’ve been watching your matches in the past, you are said to be in a class of your own; tonight you have an opportunity to jumpstart your WCW career when you square off against another newcomer in Christopher Daniels.

AJ Styles
Jeremy, you’re right about my style; I am in a league all of my own. Sure there are wrestlers around here who can be classified as cruiserweights, or heavyweights, high flyers, but no one in WCW can be classified as PHENOMENAL. I am phenomenal; I am the man who’s going to be the future of World Championship Wrestling; I’m going to be the man who defies all the odds in this industry. Starting tonight a new chapter begins. AJ Styles comes to WCW and wrestles Christopher Daniels. After tonight, the world will be talking; not about WCW, and not about the World Heavyweight Championship. They’re going to be talking about the amazing wrestling match between AJ and Daniels. Then I’m going to go further. It doesn’t end tonight, it’s only starting tonight. I guarantee you that by this time next year, WCW Slamboree 2002, AJ Styles will be competing for the Heavyweight Championship of the WORLD, now that’s Phenomenal...

AJ Styles leaves JB in the locker room and heads out to the ring.

Jeremy
I don’t think I’ve ever met someone as confident as AJ Styles, let’s go back to the ring to David Penzer.

David Penzer announces the next contest for WCW Slamboree.

“Fallen Angel” Christopher Daniels w. Vampiro vs. “Phenomenal” AJ StylesThe Fallen Angel is lead to the ring by Vampiro. They wait in the ring as “I Am Phenomenal” plays. A huge pyro display goes off and AJ Styles comes out to the ring. AJ charges towards the ring and dives through the ropes; then he climbs to the middle rope and poses for the crowd in Charlotte as Tony refers to him as simply electrifying. The bell rings and both men lock up in the middle of the ring. AJ whips Daniels to the ropes and follows through with a flying forearm. Daniels immediately rolls to the outside the ring and regroups with Vampiro. The Fallen Angel gets back into the ring and locks up with AJ once again. AJ backs Daniels into the corner and nails him with a series of chops. AJ whips Daniels across to the other corner and charges after, but once again Daniels is able to get out of the ring. He regroups for the second time with Vampiro as fans in Charlotte start getting upset. Daniels rolls back into the ring once more and is about to lock up with AJ Styles, but then asks for a time out. He goes outside to chat with Vampiro. AJ charges over and springboards off the top rope with a dive on both Daniels and Vampiro; the fans in Charlotte erupt and AJ quickly starts work on Daniels. He whips Daniels into the ring steps before rolling him back into the ring. The Phenomenal One climbs to the top rope and dives off with a 450 splash on Daniels. AJ covers him for a 1...2...kickout. Daniels is now at the mercy of the Phenomenal One as Styles quickly starts building a huge offense. AJ nails a brainbuster on Daniels and follows up with a pin, but Daniels is able to get a shoulder up before three. Daniels fights back with a low blow on AJ that evens the match up. Daniels gets back to his feet and DDTs Styles to the canvas. Daniels hits a Moonsault on AJ and covers him. The referee is about to count the three when Daniels pulls AJ off the canvas. Daniels toys with AJ longer, much to the delight of Vampiro outside the ring. The Fallen Angel sits AJ on the canvas and jumps off the ropes with a sit down drop kick. AJ falls back down and Daniels is now the one building the offense. Daniels hits a running neck breaker and AJ, then starts arguing with a fan at ringside. The Fallen Angel goes back on the assault with a sleeper on the Phenomenal One. Daniels is stunned when AJ fights back to his feet. The Phenomenal AJ Styles gets back to his feet and breaks out of the sleeper. A Pele Kick makes its mark on Daniels and both men fall to the canvas. AJ Styles slowly gets to his feet and the two of them exchange rights back and forth. AJ backs Daniels into the corner and whips him across the ring. Style charges after and dives with a knee to the face of Daniels. Daniels falls to the canvas and AJ hits the Spiral Tap. He covers him again for the 1...2...kickout. The match continues and Styles can’t believe that Daniels kicked out. AJ and Daniels continue to beat each other down in the middle of the ring. Daniels nails AJ with an Enzuigiri and follows up with a Sidewalk Slam. Daniels covers AJ for another near fall. Fans in Charlotte cannot believe the match is still going on after so many pin attempts. AJ is hit with Daniels’ finish the Angel Wings. Christopher Daniels covers AJ once again and the ref counts 1...2...kickout. AJ has again managed to kick out. Daniels is about to hit a powerbomb when AJ fights out. He counters with a Styles Clash and covers Daniels for the 1...2...3.
WINNER, Phenomenal AJ Styles @ 23:09

The Phenomenal AJ Styles has his hand raised in victory following the contest. Daniels and Vampiro haven`t had enough though and the two of them jump AJ Styles following his match. As the two of them beat AJ Styles down in the ring, Shane Helms races down. Helms charges after them with a steel chair and both Daniels and Vamprio flee. Helms helps AJ to his feet and the two of them stand tall in the middle of the ring.

Tony
Now that was probably the most intense match I’ve ever witnessed here in WCW.

King
Daniels put up a good fight, but in their first ever encounter it was AJ Styles who picked up the victory here at Slamboree.

Tony
This match will definitely go down as a candidate for match of the year.

King
They was a good match, but let’s not forget that we still have three more exciting matches to come right here at Slamboree.

Video
Join the superstars of professional wrestling in an all out bash as WCW and Coca Cola present the Great American Bash. Live from Washington, DC. On this night, some wrestlers will return, others will debut, and the fate of WCW rests inside a 15 foot high steel cage. Live on Pay-Per-View Saturday, July 28.

Slamboree continues with David Penzer announcing the next contest for the Pay-Per-View.

GAUNTLET FOR THE GOLD Match 4
WCW Heavyweight Championship of the World
Nature Boy Ric Flair vs. Sting
The Nature Boy comes out with a huge pyro display and wearing his red/silver robe. The fans in Charlotte immediately jump to their feet and cheer for Flair as the Nature Boy styles and profiles down to the ring. “The Crow Theme” plays and Sting comes out to an equally warm reception. The two of them shake hands and the bell rings. The locks up with a collar elbow tie up and Flair slaps a side headlock on Sting. Sting whips Flair into the ropes and drops him with a shoulder block. Flair and Sting lock up again, this time in a test of strength. Sting over powers Flair in the middle of the ring, and the Nature Boy resorts to a knee to the Sting’s mid section; then follows up with raking the eyes of Sting. Flair knocks Sting into the corner and delivers a series of chops. Sting gets a second wind, grabs Flair and throws him into the corner. Sting chops Flair and then whips him across to the other corner. Sting charges after and hits the Stinger Splash. Flair walks out of the corner and falls face first to the canvas. Sting gives a Woooo to the crowd then picks up Flair. Flair is sent to the canvas with a back breaker and Sting covers him for a 1...2...kickout. Flair remains on the receiving end of Sting’s assault for several more minutes. The Nature Boy finally gets an opportunity to get a pin when he rolls Sting up in to a small package. Sting kicks out by 2 and they both get to their feet. Flair starts working on the back of Sting’s knee and shin. Flair picks Sting up and drops him with a shinbreaker. Sting lays on the canvas, allowing the Nature Boy to do his running/jumping knee drop on him. Flair sits Sting up and drives a knee into his back. Nature Boy dominates his long time rival; working on the sore leg of Sting. Flair attempts a Figure Four, but Sting counters and rolls Flair up in a Small Package. Flair kicks out before three and the two of them continue. Sting kicks Flair in the mid section and attempts a vertical suplex, but Flair blocks and delivers his own vertical suplex. A split screen shows Curt Henning backstage watching the action in the ring as Flair and Sting put on one of their most exciting matches ever. Sting and Flair both start a knife edge chop war, and soon the Stinger gets the advantage. Sting whips Flair into the corner, and vintage Nature Boy style, Flair dives over the turnbuckles and onto the apron. From their Flair runs across to the other corner and climbs the rope, only to me met by Sting who throws him across the ring. Flair and Sting continue battling. The Nature Boy drives a shoulder into the knee of Sting and then starts kicking Sting. Flair slaps the Figure Four on in the middle of the ring. Sting screams in pain, but refuses to tap out. As the Stinger attempts to counter, Flair holds on and forces Sting to tap out.
WINNER, Nature Boy Ric Flair @ 20:56
“Also Sprach Zarathustra” plays again as Flair’s hand is raised high in the air. The Nature Boy advances to the main event against Curt Henning later tonight. Flair and Sting shake hands and hug each other following their classic match moments ago.

Tony
At 52 years of age, the Nature Boy has the opportunity of a lifetime when he gets the opportunity to once again become the Heavyweight Champion of the World. He’s only one more win away.

King
There are many people who believe that Ric Flair will or should never be the World Champion again, if he’s successful tonight, Flair will defies the odds by not only being one of the oldest men to become a Heavyweight Champion, but also the only man to hold the championship 15 times!

Backstage,
Mean Gene interviews Curt Henning
Mean Gene
Ladies and Gentlemen, we just witnessed history in the making as Ric Flair defied the odds to be in the Main Event for tonight’s WCW Heavyweight Championship of the World. One more match and The Nature Boy will be the 15 time Champion; however, the only way for him to do it will be to beat this man standing beside me. I’m talking about Curt Henning.

Curt
Get it right Mean Gene, it’s “The Perfect One” because that’s who I am; PERFECT.

Mean Gene
Tonight you get the opportunity of the lifetime, a shot at being the World Heavyweight Champion.

Curt
That’s right Gene, after all these years of showing the world how perfect I am, tonight I finally get my just desserts. I’m the man who’s going to walk out of Charlotte with the World Championship, not Ric Flair.

Mean Gene
You and Ric Flair have a history with each other, and some feel that you know Ric Flair better than most.

Curt
I know what Ric Flair is all about, and I know that even though he has been to the top of the mountain before, he doesn’t have the desire, the drive, and the passion to do it again. Tonight is my night to be at the top of this mountain. Tonight I secure my legacy as the NEW Heavyweight Champion of the World.

Mean Gene
Alright, Curt best of luck to you later on tonight; Tony, King let’s send things back to you!

Inside the arena, Tony and the King are shown at their broadcast booth.

Tony
Coming up next is a match the fans have been talking about since it’s been announced for tonight. Two men who have never wrestled each other before will finally get the opportunity to square off against each other here at Slamboree.

King
You have The Most Dangerous Man, Ken Shamrock. A former UFC World Champion, and a former Intercontinental Champion; he comes to WCW tonight in hopes of making a name for himself.

Tony
Then you have the man simply known as GOLDBERG. Bill Goldberg started out in WCW back in 1997 and has had a winning streak that is unprecedented in this industry, a record 173 wins. This is considered a dream match that many never imagined, until now when for the first time ever we will see these two collide.

The bell rings 3 times with Michael Buffer standing in the ring. Buffer makes the formal Main Event announcement to kick off the segment.

MAIN EVENT 1:
Ken Shamrock vs. Bill Goldberg
The two of them meet in the middle of the ring in a stare down as Charles Robinson calls of the bell to start the match. Shamrock head butts Goldberg, busting him open. The World’s Most Dangerous Man slams Goldberg to the canvas and starts pounding him with rights and lefts. Goldberg is busted open and in a very vulnerable position as Shamrock continues his beat down. Shamrock gets up and poses for the crowd as Goldberg attempts to get to his feet. Ken goes up behind him and slams him with a German Suplex. Shamrock tackles Goldberg to the canvas when he gets back up, and remains in complete control of the match. Fans in Charlotte start chanting “Goldberg” as Bill Goldberg is left to the mercy of Shamrock. Goldberg finally makes a comeback with a clothesline that sends Shamrock straight to hell. The crimson mask over Goldberg’s face doesn’t stop him from battling Shamrock into the corner. A series of shoulders are driven into the abdomen of Shamrock and Goldberg starts nailing him with a series of uppercuts. Goldberg whips Shamrock across the ring and charges after him with another clothesline. Goldberg hits a double hook slam on Shamrock and covers him for a near fall. The match continues with Goldberg in control. Goldberg spears Shamrock to the canvas then prepares for the Jackhammer. As Goldberg is about to set up the Jackhammer, Shamrock fights out and slams Goldberg to the canvas. Goldberg ends up rolling out of the ring to regroup, but soon Shamrock goes off after and the two of them continue their fight on the arena floor. Shamrock slams Goldberg’s head into the ring post before kicking him on the ground. The World’s Most Dangerous Man picks up Goldberg and, with a Cradle Suplex, slams him through the announce table. Shamrock rolls back into the ring to break the count then rolls back out. He pounds Goldberg with stiff right hands then pulls him back up to his feet. Goldberg is rolled back into the ring and Shamrock goes in after him. Ken slaps the Ankle Lock on Goldberg in the middle of the ring. Goldberg is thriving in pain as he manages to power out of the ankle lock. Shamrock gets up to his feet, but is speared to the canvas again by Goldberg. The former World Champion hoists Shamrock up and slams him to the canvas with a Jackhammer. Goldberg covers Shamrock for the 1...2...3.
WINNER, Bill Goldberg @ 10:33

Goldberg leaves the ring following his victory over Ken Shamrock.

Backstage,
A split screen shows Ric Flair and Curt Henning getting ready for their World Title Match.
Tony
This is going to be a match for the record books here on Slamboree; Ric Flair and Curt Henning for the first time ever on pay-per-view for the World Title. Can Ric Flair walk out with a record 15 World Titles, or is this going to be the night Curt Henning finally wins his first WCW Title.

King
This is a big night for both men as they look to make history here at Slamboree.

Tony
Monday Night, WCW Monday Nitro returns on a new network and a new time. Join us on the USA Network at 9:00 PM. WCW executives announced that Rowdy Roddy Piper will be the special guest host for the debut. What can we expect from Piper?

King
My history with Piper tells me that we can’t expect anything. He’s so unpredictable, and when he’s in charge anything can happen. Monday Night’s going to be a can’t miss night for Nitro.

Tony
Let’s go back to the ring with Michael Buffer.

Michael Buffer makes the second Main Event announcement for Slamboree.

MAIN EVENT II:
GAUNTLET FOR THE GOLD Match 5
WCW Heavyweight Championship of the World
Nature Boy Ric Flair vs. The Perfect One Curt Henning
A huge pyro goes off for both men. This time the Nature Boy comes out strong following the bell, with stiff chops against Henning. Flair back Curt into the corner then rakes his eyes. The Nature Boy jabs Henning repeatedly then whips him into the ropes. Flair ducks and sends Henning with a back flip. The Nature Boy pulls Henning up and nails him again with uppercuts before backing him into the ropes. Flair is on fire for the first several minutes of the match. The match changes when Henning knees Flair in the mid section then whips him into the ring post. Curt throws Flair to the outside of the ring then follows out after. Henning drives a knee into the back of Flair and the Nature Boy slams into the ring post. Flair falls to the ground and Curt continues punching Flair repeatedly then slams his head into the ground. Flair’s head is busted open, but the Nature Boy isn’t finished in the match. Flair is rolled into the ring by Henning, and the Perfect One whips Flair into the ropes. Henning dropkicks Flair to the canvas and covers him, but Flair kicks outs before three. Henning slaps a headlock on Flair in the middle of the ring. Flair passes out momentarily, but fights back to his feet. The Nature Boy picks Henning up and slams him to the canvas with a side slam. The Nature Boy crawls over and covers him for a 1...2...kickout. The fans are completely behind Flair in the match as Ric gets back in the driver’s seat. Flair kicks Henning in the groin then slaps the Figure Four on him. In the heat of the submission hold, Henning throws the referee out of the ring. Flair applies more pressure on Henning’s leg and Curt taps out, but the referee isn’t around to count it. Shane Douglas comes down to the ring and attacks Flair. The Franchise is boo’d by the fans in Charlotte as he kicks and punches the living hell out of Ric Flair. Henning and Douglas continue their assault on Flair, when out of nowhere, Sting returns. Sting comes down to the ring with his baseball bat and evens up the war between Douglas and Flair. The Nature Boy and Sting slap their respective submission holds on both men. Sting finally gets Shane Douglas out of the ring now and the Nature Boy is left in control again. Flair hits a vertical suplex on Henning and covers him for a near fall. Bobby the Brain Heenan comes down to the ring now and chats with Flair, allowing Curt the opportunity to get back up. Henning slams Flair to the canvas and starts working on the leg of the Nature Boy. Curt kicks Flair out of the ring and chats with the referee, allowing Heenan to clothesline Flair to the canvas. The Nature Boy is rolled into the ring and Henning continues to beat down Flair. The Perfect One slaps the Henning Plex on Flair and covers him for the 1...2...kickout. Astonished by the fact that Flair kicked out, Henning continues to beat down the 14 time champion, with rights to the side of his head. Henning is about to hit another Henning Plex, but Flair counters with a small package. Henning’s foot is on the rope, but the referee continues to count 1...2...3.
NEW HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION OF THE WORLD, Nature Boy Ric Flair @ 25:48

The Nature Boy is victorious in making history as he is awarded the Heavyweight Championship for the 15^th Time in his WCW career. Flair’s hand is raised high as Henning and Heenan argue with the Referee about his foot being out of the ring. Flair nails Henning with the belt and chases Heenan off. Then Ric Flair poses in the ring with the Championship around his waist. Fans in Charlotte are standing tall as a huge explosion of fireworks are set off. Slamboree goes off the air with Flair.

Slamboree Quick Results:
WCW Cruiserweight Championship - Rey Mysterio def. Juventud Guerrera
Gauntlet For The Gold Match 1 - Booker T def. Buff Bagwell
WCW World Tag Team Championship - Kronik def. Road Warriors
Gauntlet For The Gold Match 2 - Scott Steiner def. Booker T
Gauntlet For The Gold Match 3 - Ric Flair def. Scott Steiner
AJ Styles def. Christopher Daniels
Gauntlet For The Gold Match 4 - Ric Flair def. Sting
Goldberg def. Ken Shamrock
World Heavyweight Championship - Ric Flair def. Curt Henning

[DramaShark]

Wow, fantastic 1st show! Every match was nicely done, your dialog is spot on and your booking is very smart. Loved both main events, and it was interesting to imagine The King in WCW

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

Thank you for your comments, I'm working hard to make sure that my WCW has the feeling of tradition that is missing from the company. I figured Slamboree was a good start on making WCW move in a new way. Stay tuned for Nitro.

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

WCW.com Updates

ROSTER
AJ Styles
Alex Wright
Billy Kidman
Booker T
Buff Bagwell
Chavo Guerrero
Christopher Daniels
Chris Kanyon
Chuck Polumbo
Curt Henning (with Bobby Heenan)
Diamond Dallas Paige
Disqo Inferno
Jeff Jarrett
Juventud Guerrera
Mark Jindrak
Rey Mysterio Jr.
Ric Flair
Rick Steiner
Scott Steiner
Sean O’Haire
Shane Douglas
Shane Helms
Shannon Moore
Shawn Stasiak
Sting
Vampiro

Kronik - Brian Adams and Bryan Clark (with Jimmy Hart)
Roadwarriors - Hawk and Animal
Totally Buff - Buff Bagwell and Lex Luger
Harris Brothers - Ron and Don Harris
Mamalukes - Big Vito and Johnny the Bull

Arn Anderson
David Penzer
Dusty Rhodes
Fit Finlay
Rowdy Roddy Piper

Jeremy Borash
Jerry "The King" Lawler
Mean Gene Oakerlund
Tony Schaivone

Charles Robinson
Nick Patrick
"Slick" Johnson

WCW Heavyweight Championship of the World: Nature Boy Ric Flair
WCW United States Championship: Vacant
WCW Television Championship: Vacant
WCW Cruiserweight Championship: Rey Mysterio Junior
WCW World Tag Team Championship: Kronik


WCW Monday Nitro Preview
July 2, 2001

Coming off the heels of one of the most historic WCW Pay-Per-Views in recent years Slamboree, the landscape of WCW has completely changed. With a new era of tradition, what will be in store for the fans when WCW Nitro debuts on the USA Network?

"A Flair for the Gold" has been sonomynous with the Nature Boy Ric Flair, now following the Gauntlet for the Gold at Slamboree, the new World Heavyweight Champion will be on hand when Nitro eminates from Flair Country. What will the 15 time World Champion have to say in his inaguaral address as the World Champion? His championship victory has some controversy behind it though according to Curt Henning and Bobby Heenan. Will we see a rematch for the World Championship?

The WCW executice team announces the start of the 8 man wildcard tournament for the WCW United States Championship. The tournament will be concluded with the crowning of a new US Champion at the Great American Bash.

After a successful victory over the Roadwarriors, Kronik will defend their Tag Team Championships against Totally Buff. What roll will Jimmy Hart play in this match? Will the Roadwarrior's be on hand as well?

Tune into the debut of WCW Monday Nitro on the USA Network live from Charlotte, North Carolina at 9:00 PM EST.

[RasslingFanatic]

I liked the Scott Stiener promo, it can difficult to write for characters like these, but I sense some Big Poppa Pump in there. I am excited to read some more and see where you take it.

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

WCW Monday Nitro
Live on USA Network from Greensboro, NC
Monday, July 2, 2001

Video:
Quick Results from Slamboree including Rey Mysterio winning the Cruiserweight Championship, Jimmy Hart helping Kronik defeat the Road Warriors, Booker T being sidelined by Scott Steiner, AJ Styles being jumped from Vampiro and Daniels following his match and Shane Helms coming to his aid, Goldberg defeating Shamrock, and Ric Flair defeating Steiner, Sting, and Flair to become the 15 Time WCW Champion.

“Revolution Man” from Union Underground is the new WCW Nitro Theme as the show debuts with images of Ric Flair, Sting, AJ Styles, Booker T, Kronik, Stacey Keibler, DDP, Rey Mysterio, Buff Bagwell, and Scott Steiner in the background of the WCW Nitro logo.

The pyro goes off in the Greensboro Coliseum as about 12,000 fans cheer. Tony Schiavone and Jerry “The King” Lawler welcome fans to WCW Monday Nitro.

Tony48 Hours removed from one of the most historic wrestling events in recent memory, we are coming to you live from Greensboro, North Carolina. Hello everyone and welcome to the debut of WCW Monday Nitro live on the USA Network.

KingYou think that WCW Slamboree was history in the making, you haven’t seen anything yet. Tonight’s WCW Nitro is the return of this company to the Monday Night Wars, and with the 15 Time World Champion coming out and Rowdy Piper as the Guest Host, I’m sure you’re going to see a whole new kind of war happening here in WCW.

TonyWe’re going to continue crowning our champions as we start an 8 man wildcard tournament for the United States Championship. The winner will be crowned at the Great American Bash on July 28^th Live from Washington.

“Also Sprach Zarathustra” plays and the new WCW Heavyweight Champion of the World comes out through the WCW Metallic Logo stage. A small pyro display goes off as Flair styles and profiles down into the ring. He grabs a microphone and addresses the crowd in Greensboro.

Ric
This is FLAIR COUNTRY!!! (fans give a huge WOOOO) and this is what this ride is all about (Flair raises his title in the air). And with a tear in my eye, I say thank you to all of you who believed that at 52 years of age, I could still go 40 minutes plus in one night to become a record 15 time champion. I couldn’t have done this without you.

Fans in Greensboro start a “Thank you Flair” chant and the Nature Boy gets more emotion.

RicBut we’re here for a party! Tonight’s all about WCW making a comeback and tonight on the USA network Nitro is going to be explosive. There is never a better time to be a Jet Flyin’, Limousine Ridin’, Kiss Stealin’, Whealin’ Dealin’, Son of A Gun! WOOOOO

Flair is interrupted when Curt Henning and Bobby Heenan come out to the ring. They get in his face.

Bobby
I think we have a major problem Ric because you shouldn’t be the WCW Heavyweight Champion of the World, because you didn’t beat Curt Henning. When you pinned Curt, his foot was on the rope. You didn’t pin him successfully.

Ric
Listen Curt, I beat your fairly at Slamboree, so why don’t you take your little weasel, pack up your locker room and hand on out of Flair country?

CurtDon’t you deny the fact that my foot was out of the ring when you pinned me. That match should have continued.

Bobby
This is the problem that has been haunting Curt Henning his entire life. Just when he gets his opportunity to finally become the champion he is instantly slapped down by people like you Flair, and I’m not going to stand for this anymore.

“Scottish Soldier” plays as Rowdy Roddy Piper comes out to the ring. Piper gets a warm reception from the crowd in Greensboro.

PiperThe Hot Rod is back in WCW baby! (Fans cheer) and tonight we’re going to make some noise, isn’t that right Boob? You’re always making noise, the problem is that nobody wants to hear you complain.

Bobby
I do take offense to that!

Piper
I’m sure you do Boob.

CurtThe bottom line is that I deserve another shot at the Nature Boy right here tonight. I deserve to be the WCW Heavyweight Champion. These fans deserve a perfect champion!

Piper
I think a rematch is perfect Curt, but this is what we’re going to do. Since you can’t seem to beat Flair on your own, and don’t deny having anything to do with Shane Douglas interfering in that match because we all saw it. Since you two can’t fight in the ring for a classic wrestling match, we’re going to have ourselves a Steel Cage Match right here tonight, so gets yourselves ready because it’s going to be Rowdy!

Piper’s music hits and he leaves the ring following his announcement.

Tony
Ric Flair and Curt Henning II right here tonight on Nitro. This time it’s going to be inside a steel cage.

King
I can’t wait!

Commercial Break

Backstage,
A fight breaks out backstage as Sean O’Haire and Chuck Polumbo beat down Diamond Dallas Paige. The two of them gang up on Paige, assaulting the former WCW Champion. They throw him into the lockers in the locker room then slam him against the wall. The two on one assault continues down the hallway and into a stair well. Paige attempts to fight back, but is not able to take one both men. Polumbo and O’Haire throw Paige down the concrete stairs and leave him knocked out.
Tony
I can’t believe that horrific act of violence against Diamond Dallas Paige, what the hell did they do that for?

King
Well in case you didn’t get the memo Tony, DDP is supposed to be wrestling Mark Jindrak in the US Championship Tournament. Obviously Jindrak sent his friends in to do the dirty work for him.

Tony
Let’s go to the ring for the opening contest

David Penzer announces the opening contest for WCW Monday Nitro.

Mark Jindrak comes through the WCW Logo stage and climbs into the ring. He waits for DDP to come out.

“Self High Five” plays, but DDP isn’t able to come down to the ring. The cameras go backstage to show Kimberly Paige helping DDP in the stairwell.

Tammy Lynn Sytch comes out to the stage area.

TammyJust because Diamond Dallas Paige is unable to wrestle tonight, don’t think you’re going to get to the next round of the US Title Tournament that easily. I just finished talking with Piper and we both agree that its time WCW finally gets a little Extreme.

“Enter Sandman” plays and the cameras pan over the Greensboro Coliseum. Finally fans spot former ECW Champion, the Sandman. He holds his kendo stick on one hand and a beer can in the other. He makes his way down to the ring through the Greensboro crowd. The Sandman gets on the ropes, drinks his beer, then cracks the can repeatedly on his forehead; cutting him open.

KingI hate these guys. When will they ever learn to just stay away?

WCW UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP WILDCARD TOURNAMENT
Mark Jindrak vs. The SandmanThe bell rings and Jindrak jumps the Sandman at the very opening of the contest; backing him into the corner and preventing the Sandman from getting out. Jindrak beats down the Sandman before whipping him across the ring. Mark charges after and hits a high knee into the chest of the Sandman. Jindrack dropkicks his opponent out of the ring. Jindrak goes outside after the Sandman, but is immediately nailed in the gut then sent into the ring post. The Sandman hits a bulldog on Mark Jindrak outside the ring then rolls him back under the ropes. The Sandman remains dominant once more in the match and manages to drop Jindrak to the canvas with a DDT. He covers Mark for a near fall when Jindrak manages to get a shoulder up. The match continues with the Sandman in control. Charles Robinson inadvertently gets knocked out of the ring, and the Sandman uses the opportunity to get his Singapore Cane out. He hits the White Russian Legsweep on Jindrak and covers him, but Robinson is unable to make the count. Polumbo, O’Haire and Stasiak come out to Jindrak’s aid and jump the Sandman in the middle of the ring. The three on one assault escalates into an all out brawl as Mike Awesome, Lance Storm, and Chris Candido all come out to the ring. They attack the Natural Born Thrillers in the ring and soon all hell has broken loose. The wrestlers all end out on the floor when the lights go off in Greensboro. When they come back on the Homicidal, Suicidal, Genocidal Sabu is found in the ring with a steel chair. Sabu puts the steel chair on and does the Air Sabu over the top rope, landing on everyone outside the ring. Mark Jindrak pulls the Sandman back in and slams him to the canvas with a piledriver. He covers him as Charles Robinson slowly gets back in for the 1...2...3.
WINNER, Mark Jindrak @ 6:42

Jindak gets out of the ring as the war continues between the Natural Born Thrillers and the former ECW wrestlers break out. Soon security comes down to the ring and breaks up the fight and the ECW wrestler’s get into the ring. Tammy Lynn climbs through the ropes and grabs a microphone. Chris Candido, Mike Awesome, Lance Storm, Sandman, and Sabu all stand behind her.

TammyWCW likes to go to war with every wrestling company that likes to stand in its way. In the 1990s, Eric Bischoff challenged the WWF and then had to create his own New World Order. However, while he was fighting the WWF he was taking away the lives of the Extreme wrestlers. So the question I pose to WCW tonight is this; how would you like to get EXTREME? These boys behind me, they like getting Extreme and they like causing revolutions. WCW are you ready for a revolution?

“Bodies” by Drowning Pool plays and the Extreme Revolution leaves the ring area.

TonyWhat is going on here?

King
I can’t believe they would allow those Extremely Crappy Wrestlers into this place. What is WCW coming to?

Commercial Break
Tony Schiavone and Jerry Lawler are shown at their broadcast booth following the commercial break.

TonySo far we have seen Rowdy Piper announce the World Title rematch between Ric Flair and Curt Henning inside a steel cage, the start of our WCW US Title Tournament, and the start of an Extreme Revolution.

KingYou wanted an unpredictable night, well you’re getting it Tony. I can’t believe what I’m seeing here in WCW.

Tony
Let’s go backstage with Jeremy Borash

Backstage,
JB Jeremy Borash is shown in the backstage interview area.

Jeremy
Thanks Tony; joining me right now is the new WCW Cruiserweight Champion, Rey Mysterio Junior. At Slamboree you seized the opportunity to once again hold the Cruiserweight Belt by defeating Juventud Guerrera.

Rey
This past Saturday was a night I’ll never forget because it was the night that I brought back my mask; this mask that my father so proudly wore before me, and I dedicated that match to him; and luckily I was able to walk out of Slamboree with the championship around my waist.

Jeremy
Now that you’re the champion you’re once again a marked man for the WCW Cruiserweight Division. One person that you need to watch out for is.

Jeremy Borash is interrupted by AJ Styles. AJ and Rey stare each other down in JB in the background.

AJ
I applaud you and congratulate you on becoming the Cruiserweight Champion once again. You definitely put on an amazing match at Slamboree. The fact of the matter though is that you are the champion, and I am the man who’s destined to take that title away from you. I have a lot of respect for you as a wrestler and as a champion, but as I said at Slamboree, the Phenomenal One is going to climb the ladder all the way to the top. I am determined to be the first man to win every singles championship in WCW, and that starts with you Rey.

Rey
I appreciate that, but I want you to realize that although your dream is to become the champion, my dream is to fight for this belt. You have a very hard battle to fight through if you expect to beat me for this belt. I am Rey Mysterio Junior, the master of the 6-1-9.

AJ
I can’t wait to eliminate you from the title picture.

Both men shake hands when they are attacked from behind by Christopher Daniels and Vamprio. The assault finds Daniels and Vampiro decimating AJ and Rey on the ground. Finally Shane Helms comes along with a steel chair and chases both men off.

In the parking lot,
Booker T gets out of his car and comes into the arena.
Commercial Break

Backstage,
Rowdy Piper meets with Vampiro and Daniels in their locker room, and tells them to get another partner because later tonight there’s going to see a 6 man cruiserweight match against Styles, Helms, and Mysterio.
Back in the ring, David Penzer introduces the next contest for WCW Nitro.

WCW WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS
Kronik (c) with Jimmy Hart vs. Totally Buff
The team of Lex Luger and Buff Bagwell fair well against Adams and Clark in this tag team contest, but the help of Jimmy Hart on the outside gives the champions the advantage throughout the match. Bagwell is isolated from his partner and left to the mercy of the champions. A sidewalk slam from Clark sends Bagwell to the canvas, and a quick tag is made to Adams. Brian Adams pounds on the side of Bagwell’s head until the referee asks him to stop; but the damage continues as Bagwell is put in the opposing team’s corner. Adams beats down on Bagwell then chokes him. Slick Johnson pulls Adams off and confronts him, allowing Clark to use the tag rope to continue choking Bagwell. The match gets back on even playing field when Bagwell and Adams collide in a double clothesline. Both men fall to the canvas and the ref starts the 10 count. By 6 Bagwell and Adams start moving to their respective corners. Adams tags Clark in before Bagwell can get to his corner. As Bagwell is about to tag Luger, Clarke grabs his leg. Bagwell fights him off and dives to the corner. The Total Package is in the ring and cleans house with clotheslines for both Clark and Adams. Lex Luger scoop slams both of them to the canvas and drops and elbow on Clark. Adams gets back to his feet and is clotheslined over the ropes. Totally Buff is now in full control of the match. Luger puts Clark in the Torture Rack, but the referee is distracted by Jimmy Hart being on the ropes. Luger is nailed with the megaphone from Adams, who then decks Buff with the megaphone as well. Kronik hits the High Times on Luger and covers him for the 1...2...3.
WINNER – Kronik @ 5:32

The tag team champions grab their belts. Mean Gene gets in the ring and interviews them.

Mean Gene
I’d hardly call that a win Jimmy Hart.

Hart
Well you know somethin’ Mean Gene. These boys are at the top of the Tag Team Division right now. These guys are the World Tag Team Champions baby and it doesn’t matter how they keep their belts as long as they walk out with the titles still around their waist.

Mean GeneI beg to differ, and I’m sure the Road Warriors have something to say about that as well.

Hart
Well the Road Warriors aren’t here tonight are they Mean Gene. Kronik is going to do whatever it takes to remain the WCW World Tag Team Champions. Clark and Adams are the toughest, and most dominant men in this company today, and until someone else comes along it’s going to be a long time baby before these boys lose their Gold.

Commercial Break

Backstage,
Rowdy Roddy Piper is walking through the backstage area when he finds Jimmy Snuka visiting some of the wrestlers.

PiperHey, it’s Jimmy Superfly Snuka. You know something Snuka, I think I might have something for you in my office. You know it’s been a long time since I’ve seen you, so I’m going to make this special Jimmy. Meet me in the ring.


At the broadcast booth Tony Schiavone and Jerry Lawler are shown.

TonyI wonder what gift Piper has for Jimmy Snuka?

King
I don’t know, but one things for sure, when Rowdy Piper and Jimmy Snuka get together, expect the unexpected.

Tony
Well, we’ll find out what’s in store later in the broadcast, but for now let’s go back to the ring with David Penzer.

WCW UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP WILDCARD TOURNAMENT
Big Poppa Pump Scott Steiner vs. StingSting and Scott Steiner lock up in the middle of the ring. Big Poppa Pump nails Sting in the mid section then whips him across the ropes with an Irish Whip. Steiner clotheslines Sting to the canvas then drops and elbow across his chest. Steiner picks Sting back up and nails him with a series of uppercuts, backing him into the corner. The Big Bad Booty Daddy chops Sting, but it doesn’t have an effect on him. Stinger chops Steiner and the two engage in a chopping war back and forth. Sting pokes Steiner in the eyes then backs him into the corner. Sting climbs onto the second rope and starts pounding him with rights into the side of his head. Sting gets down and sends Steiner to the opposite corner. Sting hits the Stinger splash on Big Poppa Pump in the corner then whips him across to the opposite corner. Another Stinger Splash sends Scott Steiner falling face first to the canvas. Sting gives a WOOOO to the fans then slaps the Scorpion Death Lock. Steiner fights his way out to the ropes and Sting is forced to let go of the hold. Steiner gets back to his feet and punches Sting with a stiff right hand. Sting retaliates and soon both of them are engage in a huge grapple. Steiner hits a belly to back suplex on Sting and follows up with work on the lower back area. Big Poppa Pump pulls Sting up and backs him into the corner. Steiner drives his shoulder repeated into Stings ribs then puts him on the top rope. Steiner puts Sting on the top rope then climbs up after him. Scott hits the Frankensteiner on Sting. Steiner covers Sting when Booker T’s music plays Scott gets up and waits for Booker T to come out, but nobody comes out. Sting gets up and hits the Scorpion Death Drop on Steiner. He covers Big Poppa Pump for 1...2...3.
WINNER – Sting @ 6:40
Sting moves on to the next round of the US Title tournament. As he leaves the ring Steiner gets back to his feet. Booker T jumps over the steel guard rail with a lead pipe and cracks it across the back of Scott Steiner. Booker continues to beat Steiner with the pipe in the back of his head. Steiner is busted wide open as Booker continues his assault. Security comes down and pulls Booker off.

Commercial Break

Backstage,
Bill Goldberg and Ken Shamrock run into each other backstage. They thank each other for the hard fought match at Slamboree. Shamrock vows to get another opportunity to face Goldberg once again. Goldberg tells him to name the time and the place.
David Penzer announces the next contest for WCW Nitro.

SIX-MAN TAG TEAM MATCH
AJ Styles/Rey Mysterio Jr./Hurricane Helms vs. Vampiro/Daniels/Billy KidmanThe cruiserweights take flight in this six man tag contest. AJ starts off with Kidman in their altercation. Soon AJ is sent to his opposing team’s corner and is isolated from his partners. Making quick tags to each other, Vampiro’s team is able to remain fresh. Styles is sent to the canvas and a moonsault from Vampiro makes it mark on the Phenomenal One. Kidman hits the Shooting Star Press and covers him, but AJ kicks out. The match continues with AJ out of nowhere hitting the pele kick. He tags Helms in and the Hurricane takes out Kidman. They both end up fighting outside the ring. One by one each of the other wrestlers perform high flying moves onto the outside of the ring until AJ is the only one left. AJ spring boards off the top rope with a 450 splash that lands on everyone. Rey and Daniels get into the ring and Mysterio hits the West Coast Pop. He covers Daniels, but Kidman is able to make the save for his team. The cruiserweights continues with their high flying assault on each other. Helms hits the Nightmare on Helms on Kidman and covers him, but only manages a two count. Finally with all hell breaking loose once again, Daniels hits the Angel Wings on Mysterio. He covers him for the 1...2...3.
WINNERS – Vampiro, Daniels, and Kidman @ 4:01
The brawl continues on the outside of the ring until Rowdy Piper finally comes down.

Piper
I may not be the guest host next week, but I’m going to make this match happen anyway. Vampiro, AJ, and Mysterio for the WCW Cruiserweight Championship will be one match, and Helms, Daniels, and Kidman in a Number 1 Contenders match for the Great American Bash!

Commercial Break

Video:
Coca Cola presents the 2001 Great American Bash, Saturday, July 28 live from Washington D.C. and only on Pay-Per-View.



“Scottish Solider” plays and Rowdy Piper comes back out to the ring. This time piper is holding a bag in his hand as he climbs through the ropes. Piper is handed a microphone.

Piper
Tonight being the special night that it is, I’d like to call by good friend Jimmy Snuka out to the ring. Come on Jimmy, come on out if you can understand English!

Snuka comes down to the ring.

PiperNow Jimmy, you and I go a long way back my friend. We go all the way back to the 1980s to what I refer to as the pit. Do you remember that time Jimmy?

Piper holds the microphone up to Jimmy, but before he could say anything Piper immediately takes it away.

Piper Of course you don’t Jimmy. You had one, too many coconuts to the head. Speaking about Coconut Jimmy; I want you to think back to that time. I nailed you in the head with a coconut, I knocked you out and it was good. Do you remember?

Piper holds the microphone up to Jimmy again, and for the second time takes it away before Snuka can speak.

PiperWell of course you don’t. You were knock out cold because of that coconut. Seeing you here visiting WCW tonight made me remember that time, and I wanted to let you know just how sorry I really am about that Jimmy. So I wanted to give you a gift to say “I’m Sorry”.

Piper goes into the bag and pulls out another coconut. He cracks it against the skull of Jimmy Snuka, knocking him out cold.

PiperIn case you haven’t realized Jimmy, I’m sorry I haven’t had the opportunity to do that to you sooner. My name is Rowdy Roddy Piper and I’m the big dog in this yard boy.

Piper’s music plays and the Hot Rod leaves the ring. Snuka is left unconscious as the medics come in.

Commercial Break

Video:
Next week on an all new WCW Monday Nitro, we go to the wild side when women wrestling icon and playboy cover girl Rena Mero is the special guest host. Nitro just got a whole lot hotter. Live from Atlanta, Georgia and on the USA network 9:00 PM

Tony Schiavone and Jerry the King Lawler talk about Rena Mero hosting WCW Nitro new week.

The bell rings three times to indicate the start of the main event. Michael Buffer stands in the cage to make the formal introduction.

MAIN EVENT
STEEL CAGE MATCH
WCW Heavyweight Championship of the WORLD
Nature Boy Ric Flair (c) vs. Curt Henning (with Bobby Heenan)The pyro goes off and the fans in Greensboro are electric for the Nature Boy Ric Flair as he makes his entrance down to the ring. The WCW World Champion is the master of the steel cage as he prepares to square off against Curt Henning. Henning and Flair lock up in the middle of the ring following the opening bell. A head lock from Flair sends the two of them to the ground. Flair applies pressure with the head lock and soon Henning is being asked if he wants to give up. Henning gets to his feet and turns the head lock into an atomic drop. Flair goes flying into the steel cage and falls onto the floor. Henning pulls his opponent up and whips him into the cage once again. Flair trips and falls face first onto canvas. Henning climbs onto Flair and pounds the Nature Boy with stiff right hands. The challenger catapults Flair, launching him again face first into the steel cage and the champion is now busted wide open. Henning hits the Henning plex, but the Nature Boy kicks out. They both get to their feet and the champion kicks Henning in the mid section. Flair chops him into the corner, then sends him to the canvas with a hip toss. The champion follows up with a snapmare on Henning and covers him for a near fall. The bloody champion now takes a huge offense to his challenger; using the steel cage as a weapon, the Nature Boy is able to capitalize on a vulnerable Curt Henning. Flair rakes Henning’s face across the cage like a cheese grater and cuts him wide open. From there the Nature Boy hoists Henning into the air and hits a shin breaker on the Perfect One. The Nature Boy continues to work on the leg of Henning inside the ring. A Figure Four is slapped on Henning, but the Perfect One is able to get to the ropes. Henning slowly gets back to his feet and the two of them exchange rights back and forth. Henning knees Flair in the mid section then suplexes him to the canvas. When Flair gets up Henning dropkicks him back to the ground. Henning makes a perfect comeback in the match and slaps the abdominal stretch on the Nature Boy. Working as a traditional dirty heel, Henning uses the ropes to his advantage when the referee isn’t looking. Nick Patrick questions Henning on the use of the ropes for leverage, but Perfect denies it. The third time Nick Patrick finally catches Henning and kicks the arm off the ropes, Flair hits a hip toss that sends Henning to the canvas. Flair crawls to his feet and starts climbing the cage. Henning gets up and chases after Flair. The two bloody men fight at the top of the cage; ramming each other’s heads into the steel. Flair is the first to fall, but Henning follows and they both land on the ground. Flair and Henning get back to their feet and engage in warfare once again. Flair slams Henning with a vertical suplex then crawls to the door. Just as Flair is about to get out of the door, Bobby Heenan slams the cage door shut on his head. Flair is momentarily knocked out and Henning starts climbing to the top of the cage. Flair follows after him this time and we find the two of them at the top battling. Flair hits a superplex off the cage with Henning in the moment of the night as both men fall onto the canvas once again. The Nature Boy finally gets mobile and starts climbing the cage once more. As the Nature Boy is going down on the other side, Henning starts crawling out the door. They move in a race against each other until Flair lands feet first onto the floor.
WINNER –Still WCW Champion, Ric Flair @ 13:10

“Also Sprach Zarathustra” plays as the champion is handed his belt. The fans in Greenboro cheer for the Nature Boy as he is about to head up the ramp. Shane Douglas jumps him from behind and immediately gets heat from the fans. The Franchise slams Flair into the guard rails then grabs the WCW World Championship off the ground. He uses it to nail the Champion in the head. Nitro goes off the air with Shane Douglas holding the WCW title above the Nature Boy Ric Flair.



Next Week
Live From Atlanta, Georgia

Hosted By Rena Mero

WCW Cruiserweight Championship
AJ Styles vs. Vampiro vs. Rey Mysterio Jr. (c)

No. 1 Contender's Match
WCW Cruiserweight Championship
Hurricane Helms vs. Christopher Daniels vs. Kidman

United States Championship Wildcard Tournament Continues...

[CradleXShock]

great first two shows! love the way u gave the belt to Ric, as for predictions,

Mysterio
Kidman

Keep up the great work!

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

WCW MONDAY NITRO PREVIEW
July 9, 2001

WCW Monday Nitro returns once again with total non-stop action as the greatest wrestlers in the world battle it out in Atlanta, Georgia.

The United States Wildcard Tournament continues this week with two more wrestlers advancing to the next round. Who will join Mark Jindrak and Sting in the quest for the United States Title at the Great American Bash? Find out this Monday Night.

Last week, Booker T found vengeance when he cost Scott Steiner the opportunity to advance in the US Title Tournament, now that they are even what will Big Poppa Pump have to say? Will Scott Steiner and Booker T lock horns this week?

The Road Warriors plan on addressing the World Tag Team Champions Kronik after Jimmy Hart's interferance at Slamboree. Are the Road Warriors still contenders for the WCW Tag Titles or will they have to move to the back of the line?

Cruiserweights take flight this week with two triple threat matches to determine the Crusierweight Championship Match at the Great American Bash. In the first contest, Rey Mysterio defends his title against AJ Styles and Vampiro, while Billy Kidman, Christopher Daniels, and Shane Helms battle it out to see who will become the Number 1 Contender.

All this and more will take place when Playboy Cover Girl Rena Mero hosts WCW Nitro this week. Tune in 9:00 p.m. EST on the USA network.

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

WCW Monday Nitro
Live from Atlanta, Georgia
July 9, 2001

“Revolution Man” from Union Underground is the new WCW Nitro Theme as the show debuts with images of Ric Flair, Sting, AJ Styles, Booker T, Kronik, Stacey Keibler, DDP, Rey Mysterio, Buff Bagwell, and Scott Steiner in the background of the WCW Nitro logo.

The pyro display goes off in the arena as about 10,000 Fans cheer for WCW. Tony Schiavone and Jerry “The King” Lawler welcome everyone at home to another edition of WCW Monday Nitro.

Tony
WCW Nitro returned with a bang last week during our debut on the USA network. We’d like to thank all the fans for tuning in and helping to make WCW Nitro a huge ratings success for the USA network, over 4,500,000 viewers tuned it.

King
That’s an impressive start, and tonight we’re going to continue with the huge success as one of my favourite women hosts WCW Nitro, I’m talking about Rena Mero.

Tony
Plus, we’ll hear from Shane Douglas regarding his attack on the Nature Boy last week, as well as more information on the Extreme Revolution, but for now let’s go to the ring with our opening contest.

TRIPLE THREAT MATCH
WCW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
AJ Styles vs. Vampiro vs. Rey Mysterio (c)That match kicks off with Rey Mysterio and AJ Styles working together to take Vampiro out of the action immediately. They double team their opponent before whipping him outside the ring. AJ turns and attacks the champion inside the ring. A whip sends Mysterio into the ropes, but Rey ducks under Styles and hits a head scissors that sends him onto the ground. They both get up and Mysterio dropkicks AJ to the canvas. The Cruiserweight Champion whips AJ out of the ring and onto Vampiro, then the champion takes flight off the top rope with a dive right on both men. The champion is in full control as he brings Vampiro into the ring. Rey dives off with a moonsault and covers him for a two count. Vamprio gets up and fights back against Mysterio then drops him to the mat with a jaw breaker. As Styles climbs to the top rope, Vamprio meets him and slams him to the canvas with a frankensteiner. Vampiro drops an elbow on AJ and covers him, but Rey is able to break the count. The champion hits a bulldog on Vampiro and climbs to the apron. The champion spring boards off the top rope with a leg drop and covers him. AJ pulls Mysterio off the challenger before the three count; and they engage in rights back and forth. Mysterio hits the West Coast Pop on AJ then follows up with the 6-1-9. He covers him but only gets a two count as AJ is able to kick out. Vampiro gets up but is knocked out of the ring by a enzuguiri by Mysterio. AJ nails Rey with a gut buster and pulls him back onto his feet. He follows up with the Styles Clash and covers Rey for the 1...2...kickout. Rey is about to be hit with a second Styles Clash when Vampiro returns with a steel chair. Vampiro uses it on the back of AJ Styles, forcing a Disqualification.
WINNER – AJ Styles @ 5:19

Vampiro cracks the chair across the backs of both AJ Styles and Rey Mysterio before putting a Boston Crab on Mysterio. Security runs down to the ring and pulls Vampiro off, but the damage is done. Vampiro leaves the ring.

Backstage,
The Altanta fans erupt as Goldberg comes into the building.

Commercial Break

“Invasion” plays as Bill Goldberg comes out to the roaring crowd in Atlanta. The hometown hero climbs into the ring and is handed a microphone.

Goldberg
I wanted to get out here and have a chance to thank all of you WCW fans for supporting this company over the last several years. I have had an incredible journey in this ring and it’s because of you I have been able to overcome obstacles and build the foundation that I have. 2001 has really been a shake up for WCW. A new owner, a new network, and a new focus has really left this company and the wrestlers in the ring wondering if what we do on a weekly basis is good enough. Tonight I’m starting a new journey; one that will allow me to put my stamp on the future of this business. Tonight, I announces that Ken Shamrock was Number 1... Shamrock was the first victim of my new streak. The streak that will surpass my last one and will lead Goldberg to the future; the future that is full of innovation and challenges; and I will challenge anyone in this industry who thinks they have the guts to take me out.

Goldberg is interrupted by the Total Package Lex Luger. Luger comes down to the ring.

Luger
I don’t mean to interrupt, but your time in this company is over. You’ve had your run as an undefeated champion, but now it’s time for you to step aside and let the rest of us get on with our lives. This is not just a playground for guys like you, this is WCW, this is my livelihood and I will be damned if you come out here and make a mockery of this business.

Goldberg
What the hell are you trying to get at? I’ve done nothing to make WCW or professional wrestling a joke.

Luger
I think you have. People look at you and laugh at the fact that a football player can make it in professional wrestling when the reality is you can’t. You were handed everything that was given to you by WCW, and I for one am sick and tired of seeing you get everything handed to you.

Goldberg
Well if you are, then why don’t you do something about it?

Luger
Maybe I will

Luger gets in the face of Goldberg and serves as a distraction for him while Buff Bagwell and Ken Shamrock come out through the barricades. They attack Goldberg from behind and the three of them assault Goldberg. Shamrock hits an ankle lock on Goldberg while Luger and Buff continue to kick him in the back of the head. Rena Mero comes out to the ring and gets a huge reaction from the crowd as she addresses the situation.

Rena
Excuse me! Just wait one minute gentlemen. It seems to me that the three of you have an issue with Goldberg.

The three men stop their attack on Goldberg long enough to listen.

Rena
This is what I’m going to do tonight. WCW was at one point the place where the big boys play; well tonight I’m going to give you that opportunity. Tonight WCW will see Goldberg attempt to solidify his new streak. He wants to make a statement, then what better way to do that then to beat all three of you in the middle of that ring, right here in Atlanta, Georgia.

Fans give a huge pop to Rena as she continues on.

Rena
Goldberg verses Lex Luger, Buff Bagwell, and Ken Shamrock in a three on one handicap match, and I hope you boys are ready to play.

Rena Mero leaves the ring with the three of them still standing around Goldberg.

Tony
What a huge main event we have coming up here tonight.

Commercial Break

Backstage,
Rena Mero confronts Kimberly, Tammy Lynn, Elizabeth, Torrie Wilson, and Stacey Keibler about their roles in WCW. Mero gives them all a message from the anonymous owner of WCW telling them to shape up and start doing something or get out of WCW. Rena suggests the WCW women make a name for themselves starting tonight. Rena leaves the women of WCW alone to question their role in the company.
Back inside the ring David Penzer announces the next contest for WCW Nitro.

WCW UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP WILDCARD TOURNAMENT
Jeff Jarrett vs. Dustin Rhodes
The Chosen One mounts an early offense on Dustin Rhodes; isolating him in a corner where Jarrett is able to have complete control. The Chosen One whips Rhodes across to the other corner and charges after, but Rhodes is able to get out of the way and Jarrett crashes into the turn buckle pads. Dustin follows through with an inverted DDT and follows through with a pinfall, but only manages a 2 count before Jarrett escapes. Jarrett rolls out of the ring to regroup but Dustin follows him out on the outside. The two of them fight on the arena floor before Rhode finally rolls Jarrett back into the ring. They continue the contest in the middle of the ring. Jarrett regains the upper hand and hits the Stroke, but Rhodes kicks out before 3. Dustin goes vintage “Goldust” with the shattered dreams on Jarrett. He covers Jeff for the 1...2...3.
WINNER – Dustin Rhodes @ 4:01
The American Nightmare leaves the ring as Jarrett is left lying in the middle of the ring.

Backstage,
Rena Mero is in the office when Big Poppa Pump comes in.

Rena
What can I do for you?

Scott
Hey pretty lady; it’s not what you can do for me, but rather what freakzilla can do for you. You see, the Big Bad Booty Daddy knows a hotty when he sees one and you know that I can take you on the ride of your life all night long; all you have to do is ask.

Rena
Well I don’t really need you for that. I’m more into a different kind of man. Have you ever heard the saying “once you go black, you never go back?”

Scott
What? What are you talking about?

Booker T comes from behind and slams Scott Steiner onto the desk. Booker starts beating down Big Poppa Pump until Rena tells him to stop.

Rena
You see Scotty, Booker T is the hook up, and at the Great American Bash you too are going to get it on in a Last Man Standing Match.

Commercial Break

Sean O’Haire comes out to the ring for the next contest in the US Title Tournament. As he gets in the ring, he is joined by Rena Mero who announces that there will be a little change to the program tonight. The special guest referee is Diamond Dallas Paige. DDP comes down and re leaves Charles Robinson of his duties. Rena Mero now introduces his opponent, her ex husband, Johnny B. Badd.

WCW UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP WILDCARD TOURNAMENT
Sean O’Haire vs. Johnny B. BaddSpecial Referee: Diamond Dallas Paige
O’Haire is beside himself as Johnny B. Badd returns to WCW. Badd gets a quick advantage in the match and knocks O’Haire out of the ring. Soon Johnny goes out after him and rolls him back under the ropes. As he climbs on the apron he is soon pulled down by Chuck Polumbo. Polumbo takes Badd out with a clothesline. DDP sees this and climbs to the outside. He grabs a steel chair and uses it across the back of Chuck Polumbo, then throws him over the steel guard rail. DDP helps Johnny B. Badd back into the ring. Badd continues to take the fight to Sean O’Haire and soon hits the Bad Day on him. Johnny B. Badd covers him for the 1...2...3.
WINNER – Johnny B. Badd @ 3:12

Following the match, Paige and Badd celebrate in the ring as the Natural Born Thrillers (Jindrak, O’Haire, Polumbo, and Stasiak) all leave the arena.

Backstage,
Mean Gene is interviewing the Road Warriors about the events that happened at the Great American Bash. Hawk and Animal show that they are pissed off by the fact that Jimmy Hart has once again stuck his nose in their business. The Road Warriors demand a shot at the World Tag Team Championships once again. They are soon joined by Bagwell and Luger who remind them that they two were screwed by Kronik, and believe they should be next in line for the titles. The Road Warriors challenge Totally Buff to a match next week, but they refuse. Instead Totally Buff tells them to set aside the Great American Bash.

Commercial Break

Ric Flair is heading out towards the ring when he is attacked by Chris Candido, the Sandman, Lance Storm, and Mike Awesome. The three of them beat the WCW World Heavyweight Champion down in the backstage area, then drag him out to the parking lot where Tammy Lynn Sytch is standing.

Tammy
If the owner of WCW wants the women to be something, then I’ll give him something to watch.

Tammy orders the boys to pick the bloody World Champion up and throw him into the garbage dumpster in the back. Then they move out of the way as Shane Douglas comes along. He deuces a in gas, sets it on fire and throws it into the dumpster where the Nature Boy is. The Garbage dumpster catches on fire with the Nature Boy inside and the Extreme Revolution head back into the building.

King
I can’t believe what just happened, somebody get out there and help Ric Flair out.

Tony
The Extreme Revolution has definitely made an impact here in WCW. They made the first strike against the Nature Boy.

King
Somebody has to do something.

Commercial Break

David Penzer announces the next contest for WCW’s Monday Nitro.

NUMBER ONE CONTENDER’S TRIPLE THREAT MATCH
WCW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Billy Kidman vs. Christopher Daniels vs. Shane Helms
The match kicks off immediately with Helms getting full control over both men in the ring. He clotheslines Kidman over the top rope and isolates Daniels in the corner. The Fallen Angel is thrown across the ring and Helms follows through with a sling shot from the corner to the floor. As Kidman gets back into the ring he is whipped across the ring with a arm drag. Helms gets up immediately and dropkicks Daniels out of the ring. Hurricane Helms then follows through with the Nightmare on Helms Street and covers Kidman, but Daniels is able to make it back in and break the count. Daniels then takes Helms out with a Hurricanrana. Kidman and Daniels fight back and forth for a while until Daniels hits the Angel Wings on Kidman. Daniels follows up with the Best Moonsault Ever. As Helms is about to get into the ring he is clotheslined to the canvas by Vampiro and Daniels is able to pick up the win with the 1...2...3.
WINNER – Christopher Daniels @ 4:44
The Fallen Angel and Vampiro immediately run back up the ramp following the victory over Helms and Kidman.

Backstage,
The EMTs are shown loading a severely wounded Nature Boy Ric Flair into the ambulance. They leave and Tony Schiavone promises to have an update on Flair’s condition soon.

Commercial Break

Video

Next Week, WCW Monday Nitro is hosted by the one, the only Jesse Ventura. The Governor of Minnesota makes his long anticipated return to WCW.
Rena Mero is standing in the middle of the ring with a microphone in hand.

Rena
I just wanted to come out here and thank the WCW fans for giving me the opportunity to host tonight’s Nitro, but what would a Rena Mero Nitro be without a bikini contest, so I’m asking all the WCW ladies to come down here and show us what you’ve got.

Revolutionary Man plays as the Girls of Nitro come out; Kim Paige, Elizabeth, Torrie Wilson, and Stacy Keibler; all wearing short little robes as they climb into the ring.

Rena
I’d like to ask all of you so show us what you’ve got to offer.

One, by one, they all de robe with nothing really scandalous to show, until Torrie Wilson shows off a very attractive 1 piece that accentuates all of her curves. The fans give Torrie a very huge pop and Rena has had enough.

Rena
Excuse me; you think she has it all? You think Torrie Wilson is the best? I don’t think so.

Rena pulls off her dress to reveal her body painted bikini, this time with the WCW logo painted instead of just hand prints (like she did in WWF). The fans in Atlanta erupt until Miss. Elizabeth removes her bikini top to reveal even less then Rena. The fans are solidly behind Miss Elizabeth. The referee hands them their robes, then Rena jumps Liz. The other WCW women help pulls Rena off of Liz and they go to commercial break.

Commercial Break

The bell rings three times and Michael Buffer makes the formal ring introductions.

MAIN EVENT
3 ON 1 HANDICAP MATCH
Ken Shamrock, Lex Luger, Buff Bagwell vs. Goldberg
Goldberg single handily takes out all three of his opponents within the first two minutes of the match. Shamrock and Totally Buff regroup outside the ring. The Atlanta fans are solidly behind Bill Goldberg as they chant his name. Goldberg goes to the outside of the ring and ram Totally Buff’s heads together. He then goes after Ken Shamrock, and whips him into the ring steps. Goldberg rolls Shamrock into the ring, but soon is attacked by both Bagwell and Luger. Totally Buff double team him outside the ring with a double suplex on the arena floor. Luger rolls Goldberg under the ropes where Shamrock is waiting to beat the holy hell out of him. Shamrock slaps the ankle lock on Goldberg, but Goldberg counters out. Luger is tagged in and puts the boots to Goldberg. Luger whips Goldberg across the ropes and powerslams him to the canvas. Goldberg is covered for a near fall before kicking out. The match continues with the three on one numbers working to their advantage. The three of them all make quick tags in and out and make quick work of Goldberg. However, things change when Bagwell whips Goldberg into the ropes, Goldberg hits Bagwell with a spear out of nowhere. Bagwell rolls out of the ring and Goldberg gets back to his feet. Shamrock gets back in the ring and jumps Goldberg, but he’s kicked in the side of the head and falls to the canvas. Goldberg slams Shamrock to the canvas and he rolls out of the ring. Goldberg then points to Luger and waves him into the ring. Luger gets in and the two of them start exchanging rights back and forth. Goldberg whips Luger to the canvas and follows through with a spear. Goldberg picks Luger up and slams him to the canvas with a jackhammer. Goldberg covers him for a 1...2...3.
WINNER – Goldberg @ 6:49

Following the match, Goldberg is attacked again by all three men. The Road Warriors come down to the ring and fight off Totally Buff, leaving only Ken Shamrock. Goldberg fights back to his feet and Shamrock quickly heads up the ramp. Goldberg grabs a microphone.

Goldberg
Shamrock... You’re NEXT! Great American Bash... Steel Cage.

Goldberg drops the mic and stands in the middle of the ring as Nitro goes off the air.


Coca Cola Presents
World Championship Wrestling’s
The Great American Bash


Goldberg/Shamrock II
Steel Cage Match
Bill Goldberg vs. Ken Shamrock

Last Man Standing MatchBig Poppa Pump Scott Steiner vs. Booker T

WCW Cruiserweight ChampionshipRey Mysterio Junior (c) vs. Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels

Number 1 Contenders
WCW World Tag Team ChampionshipsThe Road Warriors vs. Totally Buff

[We_Want_WCW_Back]

World Championship Wrestling News and Updates

WCW and USA
WCW is slowly making the adjustments to being on a new network with USA, and although there have been some growing pains over the last few weeks both USA executives and WCW executives have said to be very positive and happy with their new relationship. WCW is currently sitting at the top as one of USA's most highly anticipated shows, filling the gap left by WWF earlier in the year. Over 2.5 Million fans have been tuning into WCW, a slight increase over their TNT fans; however this has only feuled both USA and WCW more to build on strong marketing and increase the exposure of WCW.

Ric Flair Update
Following Monday Nitro, expect Ric Flair to be off WCW Nitro this upcoming week in order to sell his injuries from the Extreme Revolution. Ric Flair will be returning for WCW's Great American Bash and will defend his championship, but no word yet who his opponent might be. Some within the company believe it might be someone from the Extreme Revolution, maybe even Shane Douglas.

Hulk Hogan Update
Expect to see Hogan return to WCW soon. Hulk Hogan has been away from wrestling since last July when he walked out of the company at the Bash at the Beach following his controversial match with Jeff Jarrett and segment with Vince Russo. Hogan is expected to play a major role in the company moving forward.