Most likely my last show of the year. Thanks for the big year, everybody.
Extreme Championship Wrestling
ECW Hardcore TV
ECW Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
March 30th, 2001
“ECDUB” chants reverberate around the arena as Hardcore TV opens for another explosive week. It’s the same loyal fans, in the same damn seats, but by god, they are as pumped as ever, ready for another big show. Once the cameras done panning around the arena, passion of the audience translating through TV screens around the world, we focus in on ringside. ‘The Voice Of ECW’, JOEY STYLES is already in the ring, prompting a “JOEY” chant from the ECW faithful. With a face wide smile on his face, the excited commentator begins.
Joey Styles: Welcome to Extreme Championship Wrestling!!!
EPIC pop from the fans, everybody wants to be here. More promotional chants start up; Styles can’t stop beaming before continuing.
Joey Styles: We’re in the infamous ECW Arena for another episode of Hardcore TV! We’ve got a huge night of action set up ton-…
Before Styles can finish his sentence, “Debonaire” plays to MAJOR heat because it signals the arrival of arguably the most hated man in ECW, CYRUS. Surprisingly, Cyrus walks down the ramp alone tonight, all smiles, as he adjusts his headset that connects him back to Network executives. Ignoring the heat from the fans, ‘The Virus’ let’s off a smug smirk towards the frustrated Styles, grabbing a mic to speak.
Cyrus: I’m sorry, Joey, I mean no disrespect, but I just had to interrupt. It’s the same thing week after week in this place. The old status quo where you come out, welcome everybody to the show, ramble and then mayhem ensues. As far as The Network is concerned, this company is out of total control, and it needs to be stopped.
The fans boo, clearly disagreeing and Joey shakes his head as well. Cyrus ignores the negative reactions.
Cyrus: You all might not realise it yet but I’m out here fighting the good fight. With that being said, I can only try my best. I don’t have full authority or power so as only a consultant to Miss Jamie Kellner, I’m limited. Sometimes there’s not much that I can do.
Cyrus looks frustrated at this admission, whilst the fans cheer loudly, salt into the wounds.
Cyrus: Whilst I can’t always make the definitive call, I know the man that can. At this time, respectfully, I’d like to invite the ECW owner, your beloved Paul Heyman down to the ring.
That’s right, folks. It’s another week meaning we’re getting another Cyrus/Heyman confrontation. “Extreme” plays to huge cheers and the no nonsense PAUL HEYMAN storms to the ring, shooting Cyrus the stink eye the entire time. Long black trench coat and all, once Heyman is in the ring, he shakes Joey’s hand and borrows his mic, before shooting more daggers at Cyrus.
Paul Heyman: I don’t really appreciate being called down to the ring during MY show by some Network ass kissing nobody, but I digress… For the first time in a long time, I actually agree with something you said. Firstly, let me inform you, if anyone is going to declare ECW out of control it should be me. And your damn right, yes, since the return, ECW is out of control.
The fans cheer, Cyrus nods along with Heyman’s words, a concerned expression on his face. What he doesn’t realise is Heyman is speaking with pride.
Paul Heyman: We’ve been back for a little while now and I admit, since the relaunch after two months off, ECW has been crazy. It’s been hectic, hell, it has been insane and I wouldn’t change a thing. This is our nirvana because this is what ECW has been striving for since day one in 1992.
Now Cyrus screws up his face, not liking the direction Heyman is going.
Paul Heyman: This has been the vision since day one, this is what ECW wanted. National Television, check. USA Network, check. Regular pay per views and all of the fans in the ECW Arena every week. That sounds pretty damn good to me.
Big pop from the crowd as Heyman smirks, with Styles low key cheering him on in the background. Cyrus isn’t happy, shaking his head with contempt.
Cyrus: I disagree wholeheartedly with your approach to running this company. One thing I do have a say in is the World Title situation, so I’d like to disc-…
Heyman interrupts.
Paul Heyman: I’m glad you brought that up, Cyrus. I have had an idea for awhile now and this week, I’m pulling the trigger and using it.
Cyrus looks concerned as the fans murmur, wondering what it will be from the mad scientist.
Paul Heyman: We’re doing something a little different this week. Both Corino and Raven will team with each of their fiercest rivals to take on an established tag team.
The fans seem genuinely excited, and even Cyrus’ interest is gained.
Paul Heyman: Things are going to be turned up this week as both men will need to rely on someone they hate to survive.
A sly grin appears across Heyman’s face, and Cyrus uses the opportunity to jump in.
Cyrus: Great idea, Paul. Tonight Raven will have to team with Tommy Dreamer against the Second City Saints.
The fans pop with Cyrus almost laughing but Heyman shrugs, not backing down.
Paul Heyman: I like it. And Steve Corino will team with The Sandman to face The Pitbulls!
Another big pop from the fans with Cyrus not looking as confident now. With that, Heyman’s music hits and for once we get an opening to the show that doesn’t break down into absolute chaos…
…
*OPENING CREDITS*
…
Up at The Eagle’s Nest, JOEY STYLES and JOEL GERTNER are ready to call the action of the opening match, when they are joined by EDDIE GUERRERO. The greet him and offer him a headset, but he refuses, opting to just eerily sit next to them in silence and watch the action…
…
Match One
Curt Hennig, Monty Brown, Sabu and Samoa Joe vs. The Network (CW Anderson, Don Harris, Jerry Lynn and Ron Harris)
Right from the get-go, this is not a tag match with rules and regulations. There’s no law and order here, as all eight men going about doing whatever the hell they please to inflict pain on their opponents. Continuing their issues from last week, ECW Television Champion Jerry Lynn and Sabu pair off, brawling deep into the crowd. Due to the fans mobbing both competitors, we don’t see it all, but it’s likely the fans even get in a few cheap shots on Lynn. As they’re in the crowd, Sabu does get the advantage, our cameras picking… SABU LANDING A FEW BIG CHAIR SHOTS ON LYNN!!!
“ECDUB” chants echo for the weapon use, whilst The Harris Twins team up, trying their best to take down the two young monsters, Monty Brown and Samoa Joe. What we get between all four men is an absolute bloodbath, with all four men getting busted open during their hardcore war.
Inside the ring, the remaining two competitors Hennig and Anderson battle it out, but they maintain a wrestling match. Hennig manages to keep the bigger man at bay… BEFORE ATTEMPTING A SUPLEX…
BUT ANDERSON SPINS OUT…
BEFORE PULLING HENNIG INTO A SPINNING ANDERSON SPINEBUSTER!!!
Meanwhile back up in the bleachers, Sabu has Lynn backing away, allowing him to set up a steel chair in a seated position. Sabu runs towards the chair, and leaps off it… AIR SABU!!!
NO!!! LYNN SIDESTEPS IT…
AND SABU CRASHES HEADFIRST INTO A DOOR WHICH LEADS TO OUTSIDE THE ARENA!!!
As this is happening, more chaos has joined the ring, with The Harris Twins, Joe and Brown all getting back inside. After dropping Don, Joe and Monty team up to beat down Ron. Joe then picks up Ron Harris, Irish Whipping him into the ropes… AND MONTY BOUNCES OFF THE OPPOSITE ROPES… LOOKING FOR THE POUNCE…
NO!!! AS BROWN BOUNCES OFF THE ROPES…
EDDIE GUERRERO SMASHES HIM IN THE BACK WITH A STEEL CHAIR OUT OF NOWHERE!!!
Despite the heat from the fans, Eddie lets out his patented sneaky smirk, happy with the damage inflicted on his rival. Joe sees it and loses his head, exiting the ring and chasing after Eddie. They do an entire lap around ringside, until Joe turns a corner, getting closer to Guerrero… ONLY TO CUT OFF FROM A LARIAT BY ANDERSON!!!
Meanwhile, Lynn has found his way back to the ring with Sabu struggling from the missed Air Sabu. The opportunistic Lynn ascends to the top rope… FROG SPLASH LANDS ON MONTY BROWN!!!
LYNN STAYS ON TOP FOR THE PIN…1…2…
MONTY TRIES TO KICK OUT…
BUT EDDIE HOLDS HIS FEET DOWN FROM THE OUTSIDE…
…3!!!
Winners: The Network
The Network pick up a strong win tonight. The fans are furious, but The Network all reconvene inside the ring and celebrate, with Lynn especially enjoying himself. He grabs his TV Title and raises it above his head confidently. As the celebration continues, Sabu is starting to crawl back through the fans, almost as if he wants to make it to the ring and keep fighting. Eddie Guerrero slowly backs up the ramp, all smiles, as Monty stares at him from a distance, absolutely livid. Once the celebration is over with, Curt Hennig enters the ring and tries to help Monty back to his feet, patting him on the back. Hennig looks to walk away… WHEN SOMETHING IN BROWN SNAPS AND HE RUNS THROUGH HENNIG WITH THE POOOOOOOOOOUNCE~!
It's a mixed reaction from the fans with the ‘Alpha Male’ just lashing out at Hennig. Without paying any attention to the fans, a furious Brown heads out of the ring and storm up the ramp, perhaps hoping to catch up with Eddie Guerrero…
…
We get another pre-taped segment this week highlighting THE FULL BLOODED ITALIANS, and this time, according to the caption at the bottom of the video, they are in a Pizza Parlor in Brooklyn. LITTLE GUIDO sits at the head of the table, ready to address his pizza eating colleagues.
Little Guido: I don’t really like it, but we’ve got to be ready, Paul E has made the decision. We’re going to be in an eight man tag at Barely Legal against the Phenomenal Angels and LAX.
Guido looks displeased, but TRACY SMOTHERS looks confident.
Tracy Smothers: Don’t worry, boss. Those wet behind the ears kids won’t be able to do nothin’ to us.
The quartet all nod in agreement with Smothers’ words, when a bell rings, signalling the opening of the restaurant doors. Guido speaks without even looking to see who entered the establishment.
Little Guido: Sorry, we’re not open…
But as Guido turns to face the customer, a MASSIVE smile appears across his face. The rest of The FBI look excited to and it’s easy to see why… JT SMITH HAS JUST ENTERED THE PIZZA PARLOR!!!
Guido, Smothers, TONY MAMLAUKE and SAL E. GRAZIANO mark out, all wanting a piece of the new arrival. Everybody except for JOHNNY STAMBOLI who stands in the background, looking pissed off at another person potentially stepping ahead of him in The FBI pecking order…
…
Back up at The Eagle’s Nest, JOEY STYLES and JOEL GERTNER look curious after what we’ve just seen.
Joey Styles: Seeing Johnny Stamboli’s demeanour and attitude at these gatherings of The FBI lately, I can’t help but think he’s hanging on by a thread here. I saw the look on his face when JT Smith became the most popular guy in the room, how much longer is it until Stamboli loses it? And if it’s not in the next few weeks, could it happen at Barely Legal?
Joel Gertner: You might want to be careful with how much you’re running your mouth, Joey. The FBI doesn’t take kindly to rats.
Joey Styles: On that note, I will move on. Coming up next, we’ll see the future of ECW on display. Two new wrestlers in ECW who were both trained by Shawn Michaels.
The mention of HBK gets some heat from the fans, so Gertner speaks over the top of them.
Joel Gertner: That’s right, two debutants, ‘The American Dragon’ Bryan Danielson and Spanky are up next.
Our commentators send us to a break before our next match can start…
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
Match Two
Bryan Danielson vs. Spanky
It’s ECW which means you have to earn your respect in this place. The ECW Arena is in pure silence for the most part as both men step in with the idea to make a name for themselves. The relative unknowns lock up and get going and they don’t hold anything back. There are a lot of incredible counters, both men showing they do in fact know each other quite well after years of training. Danielson looks the slower, more technical of the two and looks to ground Spanky somewhat, but Spanky broke free… AND SPANKY SPRINGBOARDS OFF THE ROPES…
INTO A TORNADO DDT!!!
SPANKY IMMEDIATELY HOOKS THE LEG…1…2…NO!!! DANIELSON GIFTS A SHOULDER UP!!!
The match progressed and Danielson was able to show dominance, using his strength to keep the resilient Spanky shut down. Spanky does eventually fight back though, showing great fiery strength, before rocking Danielson enough to head to the top rope. After a deep breath to steady himself… SPANKY LEAPS OFF THE TOP.
RIGHT INTO A ROARING ELBOW FROM DANIELSON!!!
It’s a cool counter which gets some cheers from the fans, as Spanky is out of it. Danielson grabs Spanky, peeling him off the canvas… AND LOOKS FOR THE CATTLE MUTILATION!!!
NO!!! SPANKY MANAGES TO SQUIRM HIMSELF FREE…
AND THEN ROLLS UNDERNEATH THE BOTTOM ROPE AND TO THE OUTSIDE FOR A REPRIEVE!!!
Spanky tries to regain his composure, shaking out his weaknesses and getting back in to try and figure Danielson out. Danielson shows his submission prowess… IMMEDIATELY FINDING A WAY TO APPLY A CROSSFACE CHICKENWING!!!
The determined Danielson keeps the locked in, as Spanky refuses to submit. Spanky battles to his feet, Danielson keeps the hold applied… UNTIL SPANKY RUNS THE ROPES…
AND HITS A SLICED BREAD #2 OUT OF NOWHERE!!!
SPANKY ROLLS INTO THE COVER…`…1…2…3!!!
Winner: Spanky
Both men pout on an impressive performance, and the audience give them a standing ovation. Spanky is the victor, but he waits as a disappointed Danielson gets to his feet. Having trained and been through the journey together, the two men share a handshake, which quickly turns into a hug. It’s clear that both are very grateful for their extreme opportunity here tonight. It’s a feel good moment but suddenly both men look confused, as the fans start booing because somebody unexpected has appeared on the entrance ramp… DON WEST.
West looks bemused by what he’s seeing in the ring, mic in hand of course.
Don West: I don’t know you two personally, nor do I care to, but I wanted to clear the false premise that you two are bringing some sort of linkage to Shawn Michaels to ECW. You see, I’ve got the one man who was associated with Shawn Michaels, and I know for a fact that this man isn’t impressed at all with either of you.
Boos at West, who isn’t trying to sell merchandise for once. Spanky and Danielson still seem confused by the whole situation.
Don West: Of course, the man I’m talking about, this man is the master and the RULER of the world.
The fans know what that means, beginning to buzz, with the two youngsters still looking confused. The mood in the arena gets louder, more tense, and the youngsters look to turn away from West, wondering what’s going on… AND SID RUNS THROUGH THEM BOTH WITH A DOUBLE LARIAT!!!
Sid has appeared from the crowd to decimate the youngsters. He watches, eyes wide as both men get to their feet, so he goozles them both… DOUBLE CHOKESLAM!!!
A mixed reaction emanates from the fans because there’s something about Sid causing mayhem that is just fun. He isn’t finished though, now picking up the prone body of Danielson… POWERBOMB!!!
Sid isn’t finished, relishing the moment, now getting Spanky in position… POWERBOMB!!!
It’s a scary display from Sid, as Don West finally joins him inside the ring. The two men share a fist bump, and then Sid takes the mic from West.
Sid: I’m not ready to wrestle yet but I’m not afraid. I’m not fully healed from my leg injury in January so I’m not facing Scott Norton at Barely Legal. Well, I’m not facing Norton officially but Norton, I dare you to show up anyway!
Eyes wide, Sid snaps his neck, looking at the fans, a mixture of water and sweat dripping from his curls as he does so.
Sid: I’m not medically cleared, I may not be able to wrestle, but I can fight and I can still kick your ass!
West applauds his clients strong words, when suddenly the arena lights flicker for a moment, and then we hear a noise. A deep, burly laugh plays over the arena’s sound system, sounding a lot like Scott Norton, and that’s enough to get Sid and West both looking around frantically. There’s no actual appearance from Norton though, so with both men in the ring looking panicked, we head to a break.
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
Returning from the break, we’re backstage with the ECW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS THE IMPACT PLAYERS. JUSTIN CREDIBLE and LANCE STORM are both in wrestling gear, ready for their respective matches tonight. JASON looks as arrogant ever in the background, and DAWN MARIE just extravagant.
Justin Credible: Tonight, they’ve split us and our challengers at Barely Legal into two Triple Threat matches. I’ve got Mikey and Roadkill, and I’ve got no problem going out there and proving why I’m one half of the best tag team in the world.
Credible cockily smirks, as the more serious Storm takes a step forward.
Lance Storm: That leaves me with Tajiri and Danny Doring. Two great competitors but they aren’t the best technical wrestler alive today. I am.
Jason and Dawn watch on adoringly, the tag champs opting to forego a long winded promo or catchphrases tonight. Instead, they are simply ready for the challenge at hand…
…
Back at ringside, we see a solemn DUSTIN RHODES standing in the ring, wearing a t-shirt and denim jeans. Much like he has the last few weeks, he seems pretty understated, waving at a few fans, a slightly concerned look on his face as he begins speaking.
Dustin Rhodes: I don’t want to waste anybody’s time, so I’ll get straight down to the business at hand. At this time, I’d like to welcome my close, personal friend The Sandman to give an update on his personal situation.
After a beat, “Enter Sandman” hits and the ovation is as loud as you’d expect it to be. THE SANDMAN still isn’t back to his usual entrance, simply opting for a low key walk down the ramp. Whilst he still doesn’t have his Singapore Cane, beer or cigarette, he does look in a better mood than last week. He almost politely nods at a few fans, before getting into the ring. He pulls a mic out of his pocket and shares a quick hug with his good friend, Dustin.
The Sandman: It’s not easy to come out here and talk about this but the situation has improved since last week. My son, who you’ve all seen before… Tyler, he’s okay. He’s run away from home, which is pretty devastating but he’s safe. We do have contact with him, but he doesn’t wanna’ come home yet.
Sandman pauses for a moment, taking a breath, ensuring his emotions are in check before continuing.
The Sandman: I’m feeling a lot better though. I know everything’s going to be okay, and I mainly wanted to show my face tonight to thank everyone for the kind wishes.
It’s not the usual dialogue you’d expect from The Sandman, but the fans politely applaud. Sandman turns to leave; however Dustin raises his mic.
Dustin Rhodes: I have a confession to make… I know where Tyler is at…
The slightest sign of a devious look flashes upon Rhodes’ face but vanishes before anybody notices. Sandman takes a confused step forward.
The Sandman: What, where?
He takes another step towards Dustin.
Dustin Rhodes: He really is safe. He’s at my house in Texas.
Gasps emanate from the crowd as they don’t believe the development. The Sandman immediately grips Dustin by the neck, ready to beat his ass. The fans urge him to do so but a panicked Rhodes holds his hands up, pleading innocence.
Dustin Rhodes: Wait, please listen. When I found Tyler, he wasn’t in a good state. He was on the streets a few days after leaving home and he was too scared to go home.
Sandman shakes his head, in denial or disbelief or both.
Dustin Rhodes: He looked at me in my eyes, lip quivering and he said, Uncle Dustin… Please… Can I come with you?
The Sandman is distraught once again. Looking a beaten man, he shakes his head at Rhodes, before relinquishing him and leaving the ring. Sandman begins making his way up the ramp, when that hint of a smile appears back on Rhodes’ face. The Sandman turns back to face Rhodes, but by then, the smile that was barely there has vanishes, instead replaced by a look of sympathy. Sandman is downtrodden, confused, doesn’t know what to think and he leaves the arena…
…
Up at The Eagle’s Nest, both JOEY STYLES and JOEL GERTNER look concerned with the disturbing scenes they’ve just witnessed.
Joey Styles: I understand in the pro wrestling industry we have good guys, bad guys, conflicts and everything in between. There’s a line you don’t cross though, and you don’t mess with another man’s family. I can’t help but wonder what Dustin Rhodes is really up to?
Joel Gertner: I agree with you, Joey. I don’t have much else to say on that topic, but I do want to switch to something a little more upbeat. I want to promote that later on tonight, before the show is up, I have a major announcement to make in that very ring.
Joey Styles: You have been acting kind of shady lately. Tell us more…
Gertner smugly smiles and shakes his head, refusing to reveal anymore details. Styles can’t help but roll his eyes in annoyance.
Joey Styles: Fine, let’s move on. For the folks at home, prepare yourselves, we have footage to share from earlier tonight before the show went to air…
We cut away from the commentary position…
…
The video from earlier tonight comes to life and shows NEW JACK with a sports bag draped over his shoulder, arriving to the ECW Arena. Before he can make it through the entrance door, NEW JACK GETS ATTACKED FROM BEHIND BY THE HARRIS TWINS!!!
They just beat the hell out of New Jack with clubbing blows, causing him to crumble to the concrete. After what feels like an eternity, Jack stops moving, showing no signs of being able to defend himself. Not done, DON HARRIS grabs a hold of Jack, dragging him and putting his mouth against the curb…
DON HARRIS LINES UP FOR A LITERAL CURB STOMP!!!
NO!!! RON HARRIS STOPS HIM!!!
Ron settles his brother down, telling him they’ve done what they had to for today. The two leave with New Jack in trouble on the curb, potentially lucky to not be worse off…
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
Match Three
Danny Doring vs. Lance Storm vs. Yoshihiro Tajiri
We’ve got two Triple Threat matches lined up for tonight, but based on the competitors involved, they’re set to be two very different matches. This one will arguably be the more technical of the three, with all three men adequate wrestlers. The trio go back and forth in the early stages, plenty of three men spots, with nobody able to sustain an advantage… UNTIL TAJIRI SPRINGBOARDS OFF THE ROPES…
LOOKING TO LAND ON DORING…
NO!!! STORM MEETS TAJIRI IN MID AIR WITH A SUPERKICK!!!
Tajiri suffers an awful landing and rolls out of the ring, out of commission at least for now. Inside the ring, Storm maybe spent a little too long watching Tajiri roll outside, TURNING INTO A WHAM BAM THANK YOU MA’AM FROM DORING!!!
DORING HOOKS THE LEG…1…2…NO!!! STORM JUST MANAGES A SHOULDER OFF THE MAT!!!
The match continues as a basic singles match between Doring and Storm. Both men have their moments but are unable to put each other way… UNTIL TAJIRI RETURNS FROM NOWHERE AND SPITS THE GREEN MIST INTO STORM’S EYES IN REVENGE!!!
The appearance of the mist draws as “ECDUB” chant from the fans in attendance. Now it’s Storm’s turn to roll outside the ring, allowing Tajiri and Doring to battle it out. As they do, DAWN MARIE hurries down the ring as fast as she can in her tight dress and high heels, pouring water over Storm’s face to help clear the mist from his eyes.
Meanwhile, inside the ring Tajiri goes to work with stiff kicks to the body, really rocking Doring… UNTIL DORING CATCHES A KICK…
BUT TAJIRI LANDS AN ENZUIGURI INSTEAD!!!
TAJIRI MAKES THE PIN…1…2…NO!!!
STORM DRAGS TAJIRI OFF BY THE LEG…
AND IMMEDIATELY APPLIES THE CANADIAN CRAB!!!
Tajiri grits his teeth, moaning in pain, attempting to make the ropes but he can’t. Dawn cheers her man on, and Doring is no help for Tajiri, still incapacitated. After battling for a few more moments, trying to tough it out… TAJIRI HAS NO CHOICE BUT TO TAP OUT!!!
Winner: Lance Storm
An impressive victory from Storm who gets back to his feet and has his hand raised in victory. He stands tall, getting a smattering of heat from the fans, looking the definitive victory. Tajiri is writing in pain on the canvas, and Doring looks like he’s still coming to after being knocked loopy by Tajiri. Exiting the ring and grabbing his tag title, Storm makes his way up the ramp quickly, still occasionally rubbing at his eyes from the green mist. Meanwhile, Dawn Marie jumps up and down, bouncing in the right areas, as we cut from the scene…
…
There’s something about pre-taped segments this week and restaurants, as we see a clip of LATIN AMERICAN XCHANGE and PHENOMENAL ANGELS looking to get something to eat together. The unlikely quartet are trying to build some rapport, but even their eating habits are different. AJ STYLES and CHRISTOPHER DANIELS dine on some fine cuisine, whilst HERNANDEZ and HOMICIDE walk into the same restaurant with a bag of Mexican food from Pedro’s.
Daniels can’t help himself, scoffing at LAX, which they don’t appreciate… AND NEXT THING WE KNOW… THE FOUR MEN BREAK OUT INTO A FOOD FIGHT!!!
The food fight quickly escalates into a sloppy brawl in this fine establishment. As the video comes to a close amongst the carnage, one of the last images we see IS DANIELS HITTING THE BEST MOONSAULT EVER OFF THE BAR AND ONTO HOMICIDE!!!
With tension like this, how are these four going to survive at Barely Legal…
…
We follow that up with ANOTHER video package, this one showing highlights of BAM BAM BIGELOW. A caption towards the end of the video says, “THE BEAST FROM THE EAST… COMING BACK TO EXTREME CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING”!!!
…
Match Four
Steve Corino and The Sandman vs. The Pitbulls
The Pitbulls well and truly have the advantage as the team with the most cohesion in the match, although they clearly aren’t at 100%. Both members of the team sell the impact of their epic match with The Second City Saints on their bodies. To make matters even worse for Corino, who is teaming with one of his enemies, The Sandman’s head clearly isn’t in the game. He stands on the apron, looking borderline distracted, and this only gets worse when DUSTIN RHODES appears at ringside to watch the match.
Realising his partner is barely a partner, Corino readies himself, realising he’s going to need to put forward a herculean effort like he did against Taz. To his credit, he focuses on in and shoulders the load for this team, blatantly refusing to tag in The Sandman, even when he desperately needs a breather. Corino really has his way with Gary Wolfe though, taking care of business, AND THEN CORINO DRILLS WOLFE WITH THE OLD SCHOOL EXPULSION!!!
The big move basically knocks Wolfe out of commission, allowing the match to fall into Corino versus Durante. Things get heated between these two and the brawl falls to the outside the ring and through ringside. Durante gets on top of Corino, and then looks to pose for the fans. Taking his eyes off the ball allows for Corino to fetch one of the Pitbull’s chains, wrap it around his fist… BOOM!!! CORINO DECKS DURANTE WITH A RIGHT HAND WRAPPED IN THE STEEL CHAIN!!!
“ECDUB” chants ring out for the hardcore move from Corino, with Durante falling as if he’d been knocked out. Slowly, Corino struggles but he manages to heave the dead weight of Durante up and roll him back into the ring. Corino follows in after him… CORINO LEAPS ON DURANTE FOR THE COVER…1…2…NO!!! DURANTE JUST GETS A SHOULDER UP!!!
Corino puts his head in his hands, visibly frustrated, when DUSTIN RHODES JUMPS ONTO THE APRON!!!
Dustin approaches The Sandman and whispers something in his ear. It’s inaudible for all of us, but whatever it is, it causes The Sandman to lose his mind. Sandman drops to the floor and finds himself a SINGAPORE CANE, because he didn’t even bring his to the ring.
Once back inside of the ring… THE SANDMAN GOES BALLISTIC WITH HIS CANE,.. BEATING THE TAR OUT OF BOTH WOLFE AND DURANTE!!!
“ECDUB” chants start up again, with Corino staying out of the way, realising he could be on the receiving end of this as well. Having let out a lot of pent up aggression and who knows what other emotions, The Sandman drops to his knees, completely breaking inside the ring. Tears streaming down his face, The Sandman rolls to the outside and heads to the back. Cowering in the corner, Corino waits until Sandman is a safe distance away… CORINO CRAWLS OVER AND HOOKS WOLFE’S LEG…1…2…3!!!
Winners: Steve Corino and The Sandman
After the match, Corino shrugs the referee off, wanting to celebrate on his own. Corino stands tall, alone, and signals that the World Title will indeed be around his waist shortly. The Sandman is still on his way up the ramp, really emotional and Corino cockily gives Sandman a golf clap, thanking him for the assist. On commentary, they talk about how impressive Corino has been recently. Sometimes he may have gotten lucky but sometimes he’s also shown supreme skill, and he’s going to be a really difficult obstacle for Raven to overcome at Barely Legal…
…
We head to a locker room in the back where THE TRIPLE THREAT are all hanging about. CM PUNK and COLT CABANA are in their wrestling gear, preparing for tonight’s main event, as SHANE DOUGLAS and FRANCINE are lounging around. ‘The Franchise’ takes a look at The Second City Saints, looking like he has full confidence in them.
Shane Douglas: Tonight’s the night, boys. Tonight you put an end to that pathetic loser, Tommy Dreamer. Tonight, you beat Raven so bad that he’ll run back out of ECW like the coward that he is. I hope you boys are ready.
The Saints nod, until Punk stops, side eyeing Douglas.
CM Punk: Just out of curiosity, why haven’t you been back in the ring yet?
Douglas doesn’t mind the question, simply chuckling to himself.
Shane Douglas: That’s the pecking order around here, kid. When you’re a main eventer like me, something I know both of you will achieve one day, you’re only booked on special occasions.
Francine rubs a hand up and down Douglas’ chest as he speaks.
Shane Douglas: It’s different for jobbers like Dreamer because they get used for bait for scumbags like Raven.
Punk smirks, accepting the answer. Shane’s smile grows larger.
Shane Douglas: It’s going to be a good night; I can feel it in my bones. I’ll enjoy seeing Dreamer get mauled and seeing Raven lose his championship opportunity tonight.
The leader of the Triple Threat is all smiles, as The Saints go back to focusing on preparing for their match later on tonight…
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
ECW’s hiring spree of sorts is clearly continuing as we get another highlight video package of a wrestler returning to ECW. The video focuses on MASATO TANAKA, and the video ends with these words flashing across the screen, “COMING SOON” …
…
In a different locker room to the one Triple Threat were in earlier, there is a commotion. Half the ECW locker room are attempting to break up a shoving contest between two pissed off men, CURT HENNIG and MONTY BROWN. Brown was obviously furious about Eddie Guerrero’s involvement in their match earlier tonight, and decided to Pounce Hennig, who was only trying to help him up after the match. Hennig is furious at Brown for taking his anger out on him. There are no words, just the two men trying to get at each other, when our cameras look through a crack appearing due to the slightly open door of the locker room. Just outside, EDDIE GUERRERO stands and watches, laughing to himself at the commotion that all stems from what he did to Monty Brown tonight…
…
Back at ringside, inside the ring is an excited JOEL GERTNER, getting some cheers from the fans. Perhaps he’s ready to deliver his major announcement.
Joel Gertner: I promised Joey Styles and all you people that I had a major announcement to reveal tonight and I will. Before I do that, I want to call Spike Dudley out to this ring.
There are a few moments where nothing at all happens, as this is an unexpected callout, then “Highway To Hell” rocks through the arena, bringing out SPIKE DUDLEY. Even Spike looks a little surprised at the call out, but he does get a nice ovation from the fans. Spike slaps hands with a few fans down the ramp, before entering the ring and sharing a handshake with Gertner, waiting to hear him out.
Joel Gertner: We’ve got a history together Spike and I was hoping that meant you’d come out here. Thanks for your time, I appreciate it. I wanted you out here for when I make my major announcement because it will impact you. I know my words have created a difficult predicament for you with The Network. I want you to keep your head up about your current situation with Steven Richards in particular and the Network. I promise you things are looking up, because my announcement pertains to the fact that two of your brothers who are STACKED… JACKED… And CRACKED… Are set to return to the land of the Extreme at Barely Legal!
This gets an EPIC pop from the fans, as Gertner paraphrases the entrance he gave to The Dudley Boyz once upon a time. Even Spike looks excited, leaning over to speak into Gertner’s mic for a moment.
Spike Dudley: Oh man, that’s great news. Selfishly, hopefully this means after two years of getting my ass kicked, things will be different now. I’ll finally have back up.
Gertner nods and smiles, but before he can go any further, the shrill tones of “Censorship” pierce the ears of everybody inside the arena as STEVEN RICHARDS interrupts. In his usual short sleeved white shirt and black tie, Richards steps into the ring, meaning business. With a stern look on his face, Richards pulls a piece of paper out of his pocket, showing it to Gertner and Spike. They both screw up their faces at the look of the letter.
Steven Richards: Before you both go any further, I needed to intervene, so you didn’t go and get yourselves into any legal trouble. I hereby present both of you with a Cease and Desist letter from the World Wrestling Federation for mentioning the names of Bubba Ray and D’Von Dudley.
Major heat from the fans as the smug Richards adjusts his tie.
Steven Richards: I’m also out here tonight to tell all you fans, and even you Spike, don’t get excited by Gertner’s announcement. Don’t get your hopes up because even if the World Wrestling Federation LET the Dudley’s come back, we won’t be rolling out the red carpet for them. As a matter of fact, they wouldn’t make it past security because Cyrus and the USA Network want nothing to do with their vulgarity and their violence.
For the first time in a long time, the fans begin marking out for something Richards has said. He, along with Gertner and Spike look confused, until they see that somebody is standing on the ramp who we haven’t seen in a long time… IT’S SIGN GUY DUDLEY!!!
In typical fashion, there’s no words, instead Sign Guy holds the first of three signs in the air, which reads “DUDLEYVILLE, USA”!!!
He drops this one, replacing it with the next sign, “THEY HAVE RISEN”!!!
Now Sign Guy drops the second one, holding up the last sign as high as he possibly can, “OH MY BROTHER… TESTIFY”!!!
The fans are going bonkers, loving it as inside the ring, Spike is literally jumping for joy. After his speech, Richards is equally surprised and embarrassed, when he notices Spike jumping up and down… RICHARDS POUNCES WITH A STEVEN KICK OUT OF NOWHERE!!!
Richards gets plenty of heat for that, immediately leaving the ring, having literally kicked Spike out of his shows. Gertner checks on Spike as Richards disappears, but the fans continue to cheer the fact that it really does seem like The Dudleyz will be returning to ECW…
…
Sitting on his own up in The Eagle’s Nest, JOEY STYLES has been caught totally off guard by his colleagues announcement.
Joey Styles: Sometimes I can doubt or question Gertner’s behaviour but tonight, he said he had a major announcement and he certainly delivered. What this has done has left so many unanswered questions that I want to ask. Are the Dudley Boys really coming back to ECW?
Styles puts his hands out to each side, genuinely unsure.
Joey Styles: They are still contracted to the WWF and the savviest businessman this business has ever seen. Would Vince McMahon really let two of his top guys, because that’s what they are, The Dudleyz are his top tag team. Would he really let them head back down to this bingo hall?
It’s a great question, Joey.
Joey Styles: If the answer is somehow yes after all of that, if so, we’ve seen what The Dudleyz have done in ECW in the past. Is ECW ready for all the mayhem all over again?
Another open ended, unanswered question from Styles before he sends us to a break…
*COMMERCIAL BREAK*
Match Five
Justin Credible vs. Mikey Whipwreck vs. Roadkill
It’s the second of the two tag team orientated Triple Threat matches tonight. Whilst the first one was a more technical battle, this one was the Hardcore match of the two. In the early stages, Mikey gets thrown to the outside, leaving Credible and Roadkill to brawl inside of the ring. As they do so, Mikey begins hunting around ringside, throwing all sorts of things that could be used as weapons into the ring. As the brawl inside the ring continues, both Credible and Roadkill don’t notice that when Whipwreck gets back into the ring, he’s not empty handed. He’s armed with a FIRE EXTINGUISHER!!!
When the two finally notice Mikey, they pause, facial expressions showing they know they’re in trouble… AND MIKEY SPRAYS THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER… BLINDING EVERYBODY IN THE RING EXCEPT FOR HIMSELF!!!
Once the extinguisher is empty, Mikey discards it and instead picks up a STEEL CHAIR that he threw in the ring earlier.
Watching Roadkill and Credible stumble around blindly… MIKEY CRACKS THE STEEL CHAIR ACROSS THE SKULL OF ROADKILL!!!
A booming “ECDUB” chant starts up, as Roadkill falls to the canvas. Mikey drops the chair, now focusing on the still blind Credible, before gripping him… WHIPPERSNAPPER CONNECTS ON CREDIBLE!!!
Mikey bounces back to his feet, raising his fists in the air. He enjoys the moment, getting a nice cheer from the fans, when suddenly he’s clobbered from behind. Somehow, Roadkill is back to his feet and the big Amish lands some clubbing blows to Mikey’s back, BEFORE ROADKILL LIFTS MIKEY OVER HIS HEAD IN A GORILLA PRESS POSITION…
ROADKILL THROWS MIKEY OUTSIDE THE RING… OVER THE CROWD BARRICADE AND INTO THE FUCKING CROWD!!!
Members of the audience have been taken down by the flying Mikey, but they don’t care. They still chant “ECDUB” on the floor because this place is full of lunatics. With Mikey taken care of, Roady focuses on a TABLE that Mikey brought into the ring earlier.
Roadkill sets the table up, leaning against the turnbuckles in a corner of the ring. As he turns to grab Credible, one half of the tag champs is back up and lands some punches, but Roadkill overpowers Credible. He lands a few shots, backing Credible into the corner opposite from where the table is set up. After landing a few more shots to soften Credible up… ROADKILL IRISH WHIPS CREDIBLE TOWARDS THE TABLE!!!
NO!!! CREDIBLE SLIDES ON THE CANVAS… STOPPING JUST BEFORE THE TABLE!!!
A cocky smirk appears on Credible’s face, pointing to his head to show how smart he is… WHEN ROADKILL JUST BULLDOZES HIM WITH AN OKLAHOMA STAMPEDE…
SENDING CREDIBLE CRASHING THROUGH THE TABLE IN THE PROCESS!!!
Another big spot draws another “ECDUB” chant from the crowd. Credible is in big trouble as Roadkill begins dragging him out of the corner, perhaps looking to get the pin. Before Roadkill can, he’s distracted as THE SINISTER MINISTER HAS APPEARED FROM NOWHERE AND JUMPED ONTO THE APRON!!!
Furious with TSM’s actions recently, Roady stomps over to grab him… THE MINISTER SHOOTS A FIREBALL INTO THE FACE OF ROADKILL!!!
HOLY SHIT!!! The fans lose it for the spot, as Roadkill staggers around in circles, clawing at his face, trying to get some relief… WHEN MIKEY DRILLS HIM WITH A STEEL CHAIR TO THE FACE FOR THE SECOND TIME TONIGHT!!!
This time Mikey keeps the steel chair in his possession, and now he stalks Credible, waiting for him to get to his feet, so he can land the killer blow… BOOM!!!
LANCE STORM APPEARS FROM OUT OF NOWHERE AND SUPERKICKS THE CHAIR INTO MIKEY’S FACE!!!
The fans are in shock AS STORM DRAGS CREDIBLE ON TOP OF MIKEY FOR THE PIN…1…2…3!!!
Winner: Justin Credible
Whilst nothing was mentioned, there seemed to be a gentleman’s agreement that there would be no interference here, but that didn’t last. With everybody down around them, The Impact Players celebrate together, holding the tag titles in the air for all to see. They get booed ferociously by the fans, as on the ramp, The Sinister Minister tends to Mikey. Roadkill remains down at ringside as well, holding his eyes from the flash paper fireball that was thrown his way. The story here though is The Impact Players coming out on top against all their challengers for Barely Legal twice tonight…
…
Backstage, in a private area in the back, THE SANDMAN sits, looking forlorn as he speaks on his phone.
The Sandman: I know, Lori, I know. At least we know he’s safe, now we can figure out how to get him back.
The Sandman listens intently to the response from his ex-wife, until a sheepish DUSTIN RHODES walks into the room. Sandman immediately stands up, looking angry.
The Sandman: I’ve got to go.
Sandman takes a step towards Rhodes, who puts his hands up, proclaiming innocence.
Dustin Rhodes: Whoa, come on. Please. I wasn’t trying to hurt you or your family; I was just trying to keep Tyler safe.
The Sandman shakes his head, not buying what Rhodes is saying.
The Sandman: Something doesn’t add up. I don’t want none of it unless it’s the truth about what’s going on.
Rhodes nods, agreeing that’s a fair enough request.
Dustin Rhodes: Okay, look, everything I said is true, I’ve been keeping Tyler safe for you, and I want him to return home. I will head back home, and I promise that at Barely Legal, I will get Tyler back to you. He will be at Barely Legal.
Despite the tense moment, a flash of relief appears over Sandman’s desperate face.
Dustin Rhodes: I know you’ve got other struggles going on to and I want to help. Everybody’s booked and you’re not able to do battle with anyone else on the roster. I know you’re going through hard times financially because of the divorce. I know you need that pay per view bonus.
Sandman just sort of shrugs, Dustin is telling the truth.
Dustin Rhodes: I’m your close, personal friend, I will always stand by you. I told Paul E that we, me and you, will wrestle at the pay per view. We’ll go against each other, friendly, but we’ll find out who the better man is one on one. I’m doing this so you can get that bonus you need.
The anger from Sandman has vanished as Rhodes remains stoic. Sandman looks more confused than ever now.
The Sandman: Uh, thanks I guess…
Sandman doesn’t really have anything else to say, as Dustin shoots him a smile and we cut away…
…
Right before the main event, we’re back at The Eagle’s Nest where JOEY STYLES has once again been joined by JOEL GERTNER.
Joey Styles: What a night it has been so far. We’ve still got the main event to come, but before we get there, we all saw what happened earlier today. When arriving to the arena today, New Jack was attacked by The Harris Twins, and whilst we don’t have an official update, we do know he was taken to a local medical facility to get assessed. I get the feeling this main event featuring Raven and Tommy Dreamer against The Second City Saints is going to be even worse.
Joel Gertner: You’re not wrong there, Joey.
With that, they send us to ringside for the main event of the evening…
…
Match Six
Raven and Tommy Dreamer vs. Second City Saints
The difference between the two teams and the way they will coexist is obvious right from the beginning. Whilst Punk and Cabana are a well oiled machine, when Raven tries to offer his long time nemesis Dreamer a fist bump,. Dreamer refuses. He makes it super clear that he wants nothing to do with Raven. It doesn’t take long for the match to break out into a melee, meaning there’s barely any tags, instead all four men just brawl like most ECW tag matches. As expected in these types of situations, they do pair off, with Dreamer trying to take out a lot of his pent up frustration on CM Punk, whilst Raven and Cabana do battle. Once they hit the outside of the ring, Tommy manages to get on top of Punk, softening up enough that Dreamer has time to find a TABLE underneath the ring.
Tommy sets up the table, bad intention on his mind. Tommy stands in front of the table, and when Punk staggers up, Dreamer motions for him to bring it on. Punk runs at Dreamer… TOMMY USES PUNK’S MOMENTUM AGAINST HIM… HIP TOSSING HIM THROUGH THE TABLE!!!
Punk crashes and burns through the table, allowing the fans to chant “ECDUB”. Showing some of the anger he needs to release, Tommy mounts Punk and continues to pummel him with right hands amongst the broken shards of table. Eventually, Dreamer relents and gets to his feet, yelling “COME ON, FRANCHISE”, which gets the fans excited. Unfortunately for all, at this point there’s no signs of Shane Douglas.
The other pairing has remained inside the ring for now, and Cabana has used his unique style to get the upper hand on Raven. After softening him up some more, Cabana heads outside the ring, finding a TABLE of his own.
Colt slides the table into the ring, before following in and setting up the table on its legs in the middle of the ring. Grabbing a hold of Raven, Colt lays him on the table, before climbing up with him. Colt lifts Raven up… PILEDRIVER THROUGH THE TABLE!!!
NO!!! RAVEN EXPLODES WITH A BACK BODY DROP…
SENDING CABANA FLYING OFF THE TABLE AND DOWN TO THE CANVAS!!!
This gives Raven a brief moment to catch his breath, before sliding off the table, wanting to stay on Cabana. Raven peppers away with some right hands, before sending Colt bouncing off the ropes. When Cabana comes back… RAVEN GOES FOR A SPINNING SPINEBUSTER THROUGH THE TABLE!!!
NO!!! CABANA REVERSES INTO A SWINGING DDT THROUGH THE TABLE!!!
This match has already had two big table spots, AS CABANA DRAPES AN ARM OVER THE CHEST OF RAVEN…1…2…NO!!! RAVEN MANAGES TO GET A SHOULDER UP!!!
Now the other side of the match have entered the fray inside the ring, with Dreamer still in control. Bringing Punk back to his feet… TOMMY GETS PUNK UP FOR THE SPICOLI DRIVER!!!
NO!!! PUNK RAKES THE EYES TO ALLOW HIMSELF TO SLIDE OFF TOMMY’S SHOULDERS!!!
With Dreamer blinded, Punk is able to basically bully him, shoving him hard and driving him into the corner. Punk follows in and begins landing brutal knee strikes to Dreamer’ mid-section, and he follows up with some shots to the head. Punk then drags Tommy out of the corner, kicking him in the gut… WELCOME TO CHICAGO MOTHER FUCKER!!!
NO!!! RAVEN INTERRUPTS WITH A LOW BLOW TO PUNK OUT OF NOWHERE!!!
Sensing Punk’s in trouble… RAVEN GETS A SCHOOL BOY PIN…1…2…NO!!! COLT BREAKS UP THR PIN!!!
Tommy has recovered pretty quickly, and he looks to go at Cabana, but Colt beats him to the punch. After landing a few blows on Dreamer, Cabana sends him to the ropes, and when Dreamer runs the ropes… DREAMER GETS HIT IN THE HEAD WITH A LEAD PIPE!!!
BY SHANE DOUGLAS!!!
Some of the fans gasp in shock at the interference from Douglas, as Dreamer dramatically collapses. Once the shock wears off, the fans boo the hell out of the laughing Douglas, who now slides into the ring. On instinct, Dreamer is crawling around woozily, trying his best to find a way to his feet, when Douglas stands over him… DOUGLAS BRINGS THE PIPE DOWN ON DREAMER AGAIN!!!
NO!!! RAVEN SNATCHES THE LEAD PIPE OUT OF DOUGLAS’ HANDS!!!
AND RAVEN RAMS THE PIPE INTO DOUGLAS’ MID SECTION!!!
Douglas drops to his knees, amongst “ECDUB” chants from the fans, but before Raven can do anymore damage, The Second City Saints maul him from behind. Punk and Cabana beat him down and Raven can only do his best to cover up… WHEN SUDDENLY THE PITBULLS SLIDE INTO THE RING!!!
It’s pandemonium inside the ring as The Pitbulls brawl with Punk and Cabana, a replay of last week. The fresher of the two teams, The Pitbulls begin to get the upper hand… WHEN DOUGLAS CLOBBERS ANTHONY DURANTE IN THE HEAD WITH THE LEAD PIPE!!!
Before Gary Wolfe can react, DOUGLAS THEN SMASHES THE PIPE AGAINST WOLFE’S NECK, THE SAME NECK DOUGLAS HAS BROKEN IN THE PAST!!!
The action in the arena just sort of stops now, as The Triple Threat stand tall. The Pitbulls are badly hurt, and Raven and Dreamer are still down as well. Damage Control run down to assist Wolfe, who is barely moving, looking extremely pale. Meanwhile, they also check on Durante, who has blood everywhere because of the lead pipe shot he took. A few members of the medic team even attempt to help Dreamer, but he shrugs them off. Seeing this, Douglas grabs a hold of Dreamer… DOUGLAS GETS HIM IN POSITION FOR THE FRANCHISER!!!
NO!!! DREAMER SOMEHOW POWERS OUT AND SHOVES DOUGLAS HARD…
RIGHT INTO RAVEN!!!
Raven responds with a right hand to Douglas, which sends him staggering back to Tommy, who also hits a hard punch to the face. The two begin to pinball Douglas back and forth for a few moments, much to the delight of the fans, until Punk and Cabana make the save. They are able to beat down Dreamer and Raven yet again, allowing Douglas to head outside the ring and set up yet another TABLE!!!
Once the table is ready, The Saints pick up Raven, hoisting him high in the air… DOUBLE CRUCIFIX BOMB OUTSIDE THE RING AND THROUGH THE TABLE!!!
Another big time spot in this one generates another “ECDUB” chant from the fans. Raven is doomed at this point and could be looking at losing his title opportunity at Barely Legal. He isn’t moving on the outside, whilst Douglas grabs a STEEL CHAIR now, and slides back inside the ring,
The Saints hold Tommy in a seated position so Douglas can wrap the steel chair around Dreamer’s neck. ‘The Franchise’ grabs a hold of Punk and tells him, “CLIMB UP TOP AND BREAK HIS FUCKING NECK”!
Punk nods, ready to do the damage, when…
“WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO”
“Also Sprach Zarathustra” and the ECW ARENA ALMOST LOSES IT’S ROOF AS RIC FLAIR RUNS DOWN THE RAMP AND SLIDES INTO THE RING!!!
The Saints create a wall in front of Douglas, but it doesn’t matter. A fired up Flair gets in the ring and he’s a chopping machine, taking care of both Punk and Cabana at the same time. Once The Saints are out of his way, Flair approaches Douglas, who looks shocked more than anything else, and Flair beats Douglas to the punch. After a few right hands, he just begins chopping the shit out of Douglas’ chest. Douglas’ chest starts to turn red raw, and after a few more shots, Douglas crumbles to the canvas in agony. A coked up Flair struts around the ring, ripping off the bandage across his forehead, and FLAIR STARTS HITTING HIMSELF!!!
Flair opens his gash from the other week, blood dripping down his face now but he doesn’t care. He lets out a “WOOOOOOOOOOOOO”, before grabbing the leg of Douglas and stepping over… FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK IS APPLIED!!!
All Douglas can do is shriek in agony as the crazed, furious Flair keeps the hold applied. On the other side of the ring, Raven has managed to get his hands on the lead pipe… RAVEN CRACKS PUNK WITH THE PIPE!!!
RAVEN HOOKS THE LEG…1…2…NO!!! CABANA BREAKS UP THE COUNT!!!
Despite the heels breaking up the pin, the fans still chant “ECDUB”, completely immersed in the chaos of this match. Raven hurries back to his feet, brawling with Cabana for his life now, and he gets the upper hand, eventually dropping Colt with a hard punch to the jaw… BUT THEN RAVEN GETS CLOBBERED IN THE SKULL WITH THE ECW TITLE OUT OF NOWHERE!!!
BY STEVE CORINO!!!
The fans boo the interference from Corino, as JACK VICTORY applauds from the outside, having come down with Corino. As this is happening, Flair has finally relinquished the Figure Four and taken Douglas to the outside. ‘The Nature Boy’ continues to hammer away at Douglas, who backs up the ramp, the two eventually disappearing to the back. Meanwhile, Corino joins Victory on the outside, happy with his dirty work, as CABANA DRAPES AN ARM OVER THE CHEST OF RAVEN…1…2…NO!!! TOMMY DREAMER BREAKS UP THE COUNT!!!
In a sight many of us thought we’d never see, Dreamer just made the save for Raven. The fans erupt as Corino is obviously extremely pissed off on the outside. Putting the punishment he’s taken aside, Dreamer brings Cabana to his feet and tees off with right hands, causing Colt to stagger backwards, leaning against the ropes for support… TOMMY CHARGES FORWARD… LARIAT SENDS CABANA FLYING OVER THE TOP ROPE AND TO THE OUTSIDE!!!
Tommy performs the ‘Raven Pose’ to huge cheers from the fans, as Raven himself has managed to crawl to the corner. He uses the ropes to pull himself up, looking STUNNED that arguably his oldest rival made the save for him just now.
The two men who have been through it all together, just stare at each other, unsure of each other after they’ve both had each other’s backs tonight. The audience are loving this moment, cheering loudly, when both Punk and Cabana approach to attack. Raven and Dreamer meet them both with a kick to the gut… RAVEN AND DREAMER HIS STEREO DDT’S ON THE SECOND CITY SAINTS!!!
On the outside, Corino and Victory are throwing a tantrum, absolutely furious. Even with the exhaustion of this match, Raven shoots Corino a smirk… AND RAVEN PINS PUNK…1…2…3!!!
Winners: Raven and Tommy Dreamer
The arena ERUPTS yet again as Raven damn near passes out in the ring. He’s beaten up, covered in blood, but his Barely Legal dream is still alive as he’s victorious. In another strange sight we thought we’d never see, Dreamer bends down and taps Raven on the stomach, telling him “WELL DONE”.
Whilst Raven remains down, Tommy seizes the moment, standing in the middle of the ring and performing the ‘Raven pose’ once again. Intensity burns in Dreamer’s eyes when he locks eyes with both Corino and Victory, who both look mortified on the outside. With a deep breath, Tommy breaks the stare, mumbles “DOUGLAS” to himself, and hurriedly leaves the ring. Tommy jogs up the ramp, most likely wanting to help Flair beat up ‘The Franchise’. Corino and Victory begin whispering to each other at ringside, whilst despite being down and out, Raven screams, “SOMEONE GET ME A MIC”!
Raven slowly swivels his battered body to the corner of the ring, adjusting to at least be sitting up. A member of the ringside crew hands Raven the mic as well, and he begins speaking as he pants into the mic.
Raven: Steve Corino and only Steve Corino, get your ass in here!
Big pop from the fans, as Corino mulls it over for a moment. ‘The King Of Old School’ hands the ECW Title to Jack Victory, and motions for him to go to the back with the title. Victory looks hesitant but listens to his buddy, leaving, whilst Corino slowly but wearily steps through the ropes. As Corino gets in, Raven uses the ropes to pull himself up to his feet. He’s still bleeding and he stumbles a little, but he wants to stand in front of Corino like a man.
Raven: Tonight was tough but let that be an example to you. No matter what you do, or at least what you try to do, no matter what help you get, who you put in front of me, or hell, who you put behind me, it won’t make a difference. Nothing is going to stop me.
Raven speaks with real passion whilst the pale Corino just listens.
Raven: This is a lose or lose situation for you, Corino. And you better pray for the good of your career, and for the good of your life that you don’t shock the world. You better hope that at Barely Legal, the universe realigns and you DON’T win the ECW Title.
Corino screws up his face, but Raven remains super composed.
Raven: Mark my words, if you DO WIN, somehow, someway, I will never, and I mean ever leave your life.
Corino looks a little unnerved now, maybe the words of his opponent are getting to him.
Raven: Think about that for a second. Every waking moment, every glance in the mirror, every time you look anywhere, you’ll be scared. Because every time you turn around, your worst nightmare will come true. I will be there… Quote the Raven… NEVERMORE!!!
Raven drops his mic, staring into the soul of Corino, having gotten into his head. Corino does look uncertain, and as the stare down continues, “Extreme” hits and PAUL HEYMAN steps onto the ramp. A smattering of cheers can be heard, but Heyman just gets right down to business.
Paul Heyman: Since you two are getting to know each other better, I thought it would be a good idea to come out here and explain what next week will look like for you both. Next week you will both be in a match where you will be each other’s TAG TEAM PARTNER!
This brings an EPIC pop from the fans and Heyman smirks at the reaction his announcement gets. Both men don’t look pleased though, taking a step closer to each other, ready to erupt into a brawl at any second, as we fade away…
…
But the shows not over because it’s PULP FICTION~! time, baby. With the familiar tune playing, our first scene shows SHANE DOUGLAS, along with CM PUNK and COLT CABANA, who both look worse for wear. The trio are rushing through the back, looking behind them as they go, clearly trying to hightail it out of the arena. Not far behind them, both men holding STEEL CHAIRS, RIC FLAIR and TOMMY DREAMER are chasing after the treacherous trio.
Ric Flair: You can run but you can’t hide, Douglas. I’m here in ECW for a while; I’ve cleared my schedule. I’ve got no other obligations in my life, just one, and that only obligation left is to end you once and for all.
Flair continues to rant and rave as the chase continues, but we cut to our next scene…
…
Standing in a random hallway, looking like he’s calmed down some after earlier tonight is CURT HENNIG.
Curt Hennig: Earlier tonight I wasn’t in the best of moods because I’ve earned a reputation that means I shouldn’t get disrespected like I was by Brown earlier tonight. I was ready to rip his head off, but I admit, now that I’ve had time to think it over, I forgive him.
Hennig nods with his words, chewing his gum nonchalantly.
Curt Hennig: I remember what it’s like trying to make a name for yourself in this business, plus it was the heat of the moment. It’s hard to maintain good judgment when you’ve got Mexican snakes like Eddie Guerrero fucking shit up for you. Yeah, I’m in ECW now which means I can curse to, it’s hard not to get pissed sometimes.
Another pause from the perfect one.
Curt Hennig: I can relate to Monty because I understand the frustration. He was perfect in ECW, and now thanks to Guerrero, it’s ruined.
A quick shake of the head from the veteran, disapproving of Eddie’s actions.
Curt Hennig: You can’t get that feeling back. I can sympathise to an extent because I know a thing or two about being absolutely perfect.
With a slightly cocky grin on his face, Hennig motions to the camera that he’s done…
…
No words are spoken but the former ECW Tag Team Champions are not in a good state. DANNY DORING and ROADKILL are equally furious, having lost their last few tag matches and failing again in their respective Triple Threat matches. They get into a shoving match, but that’s all we see as the scene quickly cuts…
…
To the same unemotional, controlled face of DUSTIN RHODES that we have been seeing for the last few weeks. He’s no longer with The Sandman, instead sitting alone in a room.
Dustin Rhodes: I wanted to take this time away from my close, personal friend. I want to sit here and without the chances of emotions running high, I wanted to talk about The Sandman’s son, Tyler.
Dustin’s face is still very hard to read, but he’s certainly serious.
Dustin Rhodes: Let me premise all of this by saying that nothing inappropriate has happened and Tyler is completely fine.
Silence. He lets those words marinate.
Dustin Rhodes: I want to take this time to simply reiterate the promise I’ve made to my friend. I will be facing Sandman in a friendly match at Barely Legal and Tyler will be there to confront his father.
Rhodes continues to give the same stoic look into the camera, before we cut away…
…
A sore MIKEY WHIPWRECK is being helped across the locker room by THE SINISTER MINISTER, when a furious TAJIRI joins them, yelling in Japanese. Both men also aren’t happy at losing tonight, but Minister remains calm, waiting for Tajiri’s rant to finish.
The Sinister Minister: It’s okay, I have full confidence we are getting those titles back. Gods gift to tag teams; The Impact Players better have god on their sides at Barely Legal. Divine intervention is the only way we aren’t getting our titles back.
Minister then motions for Tajiri to take overlooking after Mikey. Tajiri does so, as the Minister grabs a bible, and lights it on fire to further emphasise his point…
…
Sitting by himself, a concerned look on his face is STEVE CORINO.
Steve Corino: I just needed some time alone because as I sit here, I can openly admit, I’m afraid of what’s going to happen next week.
Despite finding a way each week, Corino does look afraid.
Steve Corino: I’m not afraid about losing my title opportunity, I know that I can coexist with Raven. I’m a professional, but I know that at some point, Raven’s going to kill me.
Corino gulps before completely snapping.
Steve Corino: CYRUS… YOU NEED TO FIX THIS!!!
‘The King Of Old School’ is screaming at nobody. Cyrus isn’t there, but he’s almost in tears now, freaking out. Corino gets up, pacing back and forth, a picture of nervousness. As Corino continues to walk, we see JACK VICTORY sleeping in a chair in the background.
Corino grabs Victory and starts shaking him violently.
Steve Corino: HELP ME!!!
Victory opens his eyes, not really sure how to react, as Corino stares at him pleadingly, with the scene cutting away…
…
We’re back where we started for the final scene of the night. Having not captured The Triple Threat in time, RIC FLAIR and TOMMY DREAMER have not stopped chasing, but they are still ready to fight.
Ric Flair: Douglas, Saints, you escaped this week, but by god, next week your asses belong to us. We know The Pitbulls are seemingly out of commission, that sucks, but we’re ready. Next week, just like Tommy has promised before, we won’t come alone and you can say that we’ll be riding… IN HORSEMEN STYLE… WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
Tommy just smirks at the words from Flair. The two are ready to go right now, but they’ll have to wait another week as the show fades to black…
*END OF SHOW*
ECW Barely Legal
April 15th, 2001
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
ECW Arena
ECW World Heavyweight Championship Match:
Raven vs. Steve Corino
ECW Television Championship Match:
Jerry Lynn (c) defends against Sabu w/Bill Alfonso
ECW World Tag Team Championship Match;
Three Way Dance:
The Impact Players (c) vs. Danny Doring and Roadkill vs. The Unholy Alliance
Dustin Rhodes vs. The Sandman
Tag Team Match:
New Jack and ??? vs. The Harris Twins
Eddie Guerrero vs. Monty Brown
Eight Man Tag Team Match:
Latin American Xchange and Phenomenal Angels vs. The Full Blooded Italians
Scott Norton confronts Sid
