Ring of Honor EWR Diary

August 4, 2003

Hey, some of you might know me from the SWF/SJL, but if you don't I'm no one special. Just the reigning SJL TV Champ (*cough*goreadtheSJLshows*cough*). Anyway, I've been a big EWR player since its release, and with the release of EWR 4.0, I decided to keep a diary of the results here on the board. This is mostly for my game, but if you're interested...by all means feedback me. This will be no threat to Zack's XPW diary or anything, just me in charge of ROH. So with that...here we go...

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September 1st, 2003- ROHWrestling.com:

* Ring of Honor would like to welcome new Creative Team member Todd Royal to the staff. Todd will join Rob, Gabe and the crew in booking talent and matches for the upcoming Ring of Honor shows, beginning with Unscripted, later this month.

* Japanese legend and former WWE star TAKA Michinoku will make his Ring of Honor debut at Unscripted when he takes on Special K's Jody Fleisch. Fleisch's experience in Michinoku Pro Wrestling makes him the logical first opponent for Michinoku

* With the recent rash of cutbacks in WWE development programs, you can be sure that some new talent will be finding their way from OVW to Philly for Unscripted. Who will be there? You'll have to be at the Murphy Rec Center to find out!

* Also on the card for Unscripted: Samoa Joe defends the ROH title against Homicide, Amazing Red and AJ Styles put their tag belts up against the Second City Saints of CM Punk and Colt Cabana, and the #1 contenders Trophy will be decided in a 4 way match. EZ Money and BJ Whitmer are already entered into the match...but who will they face?

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Coming Later: ROH Unscripted. Partial Card as Announced:

* Samoa Joe Vs. Homicide- ROH Title

* Amazing Red & AJ Styles Vs. Second City Saints- ROH Tag Titles

* EZ Money Vs. BJ Whitmer Vs. ??? Vs. ???- #1 Contenders Trophy

* TAKA Michinoku Vs. Jody Fleisch

August 4, 2003

Ring of Honor presents Ring of Honor: UNSCRIPTED

September 21st, 2003 from the Murphy Rec Center in Philadelphia, PA

Match Ratings by The Dames (w/o commentary, because it just gets repetitive, so just the basic story of the match by me with Dames wedding)

Jeff Hardy Vs. Danny Maff

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The crowd responded better to Jeff Hardy this time out, feeling as though he had surived the razzing of his first appearances and respecting him for it. Maff, and his Prophecy manager Simply Luscious were booed however. The match wasn't exactly spectacular, but Hardy's high flying wrestling proved costly as he missed a Swanton Bomb, leading to a Mafia Bomb by Maff to pick up the victory.

Winner: Danny Maff by Pin.

Crowd- 59%

Match- 67%

Overall- 63%

Rating: *

After the match, Hardy offered his hand for a Handshake, but Maff just laughed and smacked his hand out of the ring, pointing at a Prophecy T-shirt that Luscious was wearing and declaring that the Prophecy would NEVER shake hands. The crowd booed Maff out of the building for this.

The Purists Vs. The Briscoe Boys

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We turn up the mat wrestling a few notches with this match between Mark and Jay Briscoe and the Purists of Tony Mamaluke and John Walters. The Briscoes had control for the majority of the match, but Mamaluke escaped an attempt at the Jay Driller and the Purists were able to take control, isolating Jay and eventually forcing him to tap to a Sicilian Stretch. The Purists were booed during the match, but both teams recieved a good sized ovation after the match, and shook hands in a show of respect, even though Jay Briscoe was obviously less than pleased with the match.

Winners: The Purists by Submission.

Crowd: 68%

Match: 87%

Overall: 72%

Rating: ***

TAKA Michinoku Vs. Jody Fleisch

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The crowd was luke warm for TAKA's debut, continuing their trend of skepticism towards former WWE guys. Jody and TAKA silenced the skeptics by putting on a great high-flying match. Jody was seconded by Special K, but TAKA took them out with an impressive Asai moonsault. The break in the attack allowed Fleisch to take advantage, but a Phoenix DDT was blocked, and TAKA hit the Michinoku Driver II for the pinfall victory. The crowd politely cheered TAKA after the victory.

Winner: TAKA Michinoku by Pin.

Crowd- 42%

Match- 89%

Overall- 65%

Rating: **3/4

Raven Vs. Steve Corino

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Raven was seconded to the ring by his TNA Gathering follower Alexis Laree, and the pair got a great ovation from the ROH crowd. Steve Corino, on the other hand, got booed heavily as he made his way to the ring. The pair of ECW almuni put on a solid match, and the crowd came alive for this match more than any other match so far tonight. Raven was able to put the match away with the Evenflow, planting Corino in the middle of the ring for the 3 Count.

Winner: Raven by Pin.

Crowd- 76%

Match- 73%

Overall- 75%

Rating: **

As Raven celebrated his victory with the crowd, Christopher Daniels and Danny Maff hit the ring and laid him out. As The Prophecy worked Raven over, Jeff Hardy hit the ring to make the save, attacking Maff as revenge for his refusal to shake hands earlier in the night. Laree and Hardy were able to chase Daniels and Maff from the ring and help Raven to his feet as the crowd jeered the Prophecy mercilessly.

Tag Team Scramble Elimination:

The Spanish Announce Team Vs. The Backseat Boyz Vs. Special K Vs. Nova & Spanky

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The first surprise of the night came in a big way as the team of recently released WWE'ers Nova and Spanky joined in a fast paced and high-flying Scramble. Calling themselves the "Super Amazings" they faces off against the Backseats, SAT and Joey Matthews and Slim J of Special K. The crowd could barely keep up with the match as it moved so rapidly, but the BSB were able to pick up the victory, gaining the pin on Nova after a T-Gimmick from the top rope.

Winners: The Backseat Boyz by Pin.

Crowd- 53%

Match- 76%

Overall- 64%

Rating: *3/4

Christopher Daniels Vs. "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson

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An absolutely AWESOME match between Daniels and Dragon that had the crowd appalauding for even the hated Daniels. Daniels tried to hit the Angel's Wings, but Dragon spun around and planted him, hooking him in a Cattle Mutilation for the submission victory. As the crowd gave Danielson a standing ovation, the Prophecy leader flipped out, blaming the shots he took from Jeff Hardy earlier in the night for his loss.

Winner: Bryan Danielson by Submission.

Crowd- 61%

Match- 95%

Overall- 78%

Rating: ***3/4

The ring announcer announced the #1 Contender's Trophy match as next, and brought out EZ Money and BJ Whitmer. As the crowd buzzed about the other 2 opponents, "Mr. Wrestling" Nick Dinsmore was announced, drawing polite applause from the crowd for the OVW vet. Suddenly the crowd EXPLODED in applause as familiar music played and...PAUL LONDON made his way through the curtain!!!

#1 Contender's Trophy

EZ Money Vs. BJ Whitmer Vs. Nick Dinsmore Vs. Paul London

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The 4 men put on a great technical match, though the crowd had a hard time keeping up with all the action. Whitmer was the first eliminated, taking a German Suplex from Dinsmore, and EZ Money soon followed by taking another STIFF suplex from the newcomer. As the crowd got into the final two, London blocked a third German attempt and dropped Dinsmore with a huge dropkick. Heading up top, the "Please Don't Die!" chants rang through the Rec Center again, and London hit a huge Shooting Star Press to claim the #1 contender's trophy.

Winner: Paul London by Pin.

Crowd- 58%

Match- 79%

Overall- 66%

Rating: **1/4

After the match, Dinsmore and London shook hands to a great response. Dinsmore got a good ovation for his impressive debut, and London recieved a huge "Welcome Back" chant as he raised the trophy in the air.

ROH Tag Team Titles

Amazing Red & AJ Styles © Vs. Second City Saints

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The crowd LOVES the Tag Champs, and quickly took to booing Punk and Cabana. The 4 put on an absolutely AWESOME match, second only to Dragon/Daniels for match of the night. The Saints tried to capture the belts with numerous Double Team moves, but Red and Styles were the better team, hitting a huracanrana into a Styles Clash on CM Punk for the pin. After the match, Ace Steel hit the ring to join Punk and Cabana in laying the champs out, drawing huge heat from the crowd. The Saints stood over the fallen champs and mockingly shook their limp hands as they left the ring.

Winners: Amazing Red & AJ Styles by Pin.

Crowd- 60%

Match- 92%

Overall- 76%

Rating: ***1/2

ROH Title

Samoa Joe © Vs. Homicide

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A Good Strong Style match to end the show, with Joe and Homicide beating the tar out of each other over the greatest prize in Ring of Honor. The crowd was behind Homicide the entire match, chanting "187" and booing each time the Champion took the offensive. Homicide tried to hit the Cop Killer to put away the match, but Joe reversed into a Tomikahzee, dropping the challenger on his head and covering for the 3, retaining the title.

Winner: Samoa Joe by Pin.

Crowd- 63%

Match- 74%

Overall- 68%

Rating: *3/4

After the match, Champion and Challenger shook hands, put parted uneasily, staring each other down as they each left the arena. The crowd chanted "RING OF HONOR" as they dispersed, ending another excellent ROH show.

Overall: 70%, Attendance: 2418

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Best Match: "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson Def. Christopher Daniels.

Hottest Match: Raven Def. Steve Corino

Worst Match: Danny Maff Def. Jeff Hardy

Coming Soon: ROHWrestling.com update, featuring matches for Glory by Honor and an annoucement regarding young ROH Talent.

(Any thoughts?)

August 4, 2003

Good one, but might wanna go into a little more detail if you feel like you can handle it. Still though, good job.... :huh: , damn are these diaries coming out of the woodworks.

I'm going to have a tough time keeping up with good ones, like this one. B-)

Good one, but might wanna go into a little more detail if you feel like you can handle it. Still though, good job.

Edit: Sorry, forgot to add smilies.

August 5, 2003

October 1st, 2003: ROHWrestling.com

* At Unscripted, Paul London made his return to Ring of Honor, and immediately reclaimed the #1 Contender's trophy. London will cash in his title shot live in Fairfield, CT at Glory by Honor when he takes on Samoa Joe.

* Things EXPLODED between The Prophecy and Raven at Unscripted, and they'll heat up even more at Glory By Honor. Raven will team with fellow Prophecy victim Jeff Hardy to take on the team of Christopher Daniels and Donovan Morgan.

* Jay Briscoe was forced to submit to the Sicilian Stretch in Philadelphia, losing the tag team match for his team. Jay was NOT happy, and at Glory By Honor, he'll take on the man who beat him, Tony Mamaluke to try and prove that his loss was simply a fluke.

* Ring of Honor would like to announce the formation of High Impact Wrestling. HIW will be a spin-off of Ring of Honor where our younger talent will be able to wrestle on tours throughout the Northeast in order to hone their skills. Among the performers on the first HIW tour are Special K members Izzy, Dixie and Angeldust, Midwest talents Alex Shelley and Adam Pearce, and TWA stars Fest Eddie, BioHazard and Don Juan. The first HIW tour will be hitting Maine, Vermont and upstate New York over the next few months.

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Glory by Honor Card as Announced so far:

Samoa Joe Vs. Paul London- ROH Title

The Prophecy Vs. Raven/Jeff Hardy

#1 Contender's Trophy:

Low Ki Vs. Steve Corino Vs. Doug Williams Vs. Homicide

Jay Briscoe Vs. Tony Mamaluke

August 5, 2003

* Ring of Honor would like to announce the formation of High Impact Wrestling.

Firstly, you stole my ol' name for my fed. Use it well!~!

Secondly, can't wait for the new show. Sounds like it'll be good.

August 7, 2003

This will usually go in the internet update/preview scetion, but I forgot it last time, so here's the Ring of Honor Rankings for October 2003:

©: Samoa Joe

#1: Paul London (#1 Contender's Trophy Holder)

#2: Homicide ( Strong in defeat at Unscripted)

#3: Bryan Danielson (Shoots to top of the list with huge win over Christopher Daniels)

#4: Nick Dinsmore (Impressive debut, outlasting 2 men in the 4 corners match)

#5: Raven (Strong in victory over Steve Corino at Unscripted)

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Ring Of Honor Presents: GLORY BY HONOR

October 12th, 2003

Six Man Scramble

Special K Vs. The Super Amazings

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Special K was represented in this match by Joey Matthews, Jody Fleisch and Slim J, while the Super Amazings were the newly formed team of Nova and Spanky, along with NWA X star Frankie Kazarian. The action was fast and furious in this match with all 6 men flying around the ring, but the crowd is still burned out on the high-flying scramble style. Kazarian looked for the Flux Capacitator, but was shoved off the top by Matthews, and Fleisch finished with a Phoenix DDT to Nova onto Frankie for the 3 count.

Winners: Special K (Fleisch, Matthews, J) by Pin.

Crowd- 55%

Match- 76%

Overall- 65%

Rating: *3/4

TAKA Michinoku Vs. Michael Shane

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The crowd's tepid reaction to TAKA continues to confuse me, but it didn't stop him from putting on a spectacular high-flying match with Michael Shane. TAKA controlled most of the match with his high-risk offense, but when he missed an Asai Moonsault on the outside, Shane tossed him in the ring and hit a Superkick for 2. TAKA tried to come back with a Michinoku Driver II, but Shane slipped out and hit an inverted DDT, finishing TAKA off with the Picture Perfect Elbow.

Winner: Michael Shane by Pin.

Crowd- 42%

Match- 82%

Overall- 62%

Rating: **

As Shane and Michinoku left the ring, the arena erupted in boos as Christopher Daniels strolled to the ring, flanked by Donovan Morgan, Danny Maff and Simply Luscious. The Prophecy got into the ring, and Daniels announced that since Nick Dinsmore's opponent for tonight, EZ Money, had signed a WWE contract (which, accodring to Daniels, made him better than the OVW reject) that the Prophecy would provide him with an opponent tonight, in the form of Xavier! He also announced that he was teaming with Donovan Morgan to take out Raven tonight, and eliminate "the annoying fly" from Ring of Honor.

Rating: 86%

#1 Contender's Trophy:

Steve Corino Vs. Doug Williams Vs. Low Ki Vs. Homicide

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Another great 4 corner's match to determine the #1 contender to the ROH title. Williams and Low Ki held a wrestling exhibition in the middle of the ring, while Corino and Homicide's portions of the match were a wild brawl. Corino was the first eliminated, after a stiff kick by Ki knocked him back into a cop Killer by Homicide. Corino pitched a fit about his elimination on the outside as Ki eliminated Williams with the Ki Krusher '99. As officials took Corino off, Ki and Homicide beat the daylights out of each other to the fan's delight. Homicide tried the Cop Killer, but Ki flipped out of the move and hit a spin kick to the head, locking on the Dragon Ki clutch to get the submission victory.

Winner: Low Ki by Submission

Crowd: 62%

Match: 81%

Overall: 71%

Rating: **1/2

Jay Briscoe Vs. Tony Mamaluke

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At Unscripted, Mamaluke forced Jay to tap to the Sicilian Stretch, costing the Briscoes the match. Jay was extemely unhappy, and was out for revenge in this match, going after Mamaluke from the opening bell. Jay tried to overpower Mamaluke, but Tony worked on the arm and neck whenever he had an opening, and when Briscoe went for the Jay Driller, Mamaluke backdropped out of it and locked on the Sicilian Stretch to get another submission victory. Jay flipped out after the handshake, threatening Mamaluke until Mark Briscoe and John Walters came out to break up the fight. A GREAT match that got the crowd into it by the end.

Winner: Tony Mamaluke by Submission.

Crowd: 56%

Match: 90%

Overall: 73%

Rating: ***3/4

Six Man Tag Team Match:

Amazing Phenomenon & Bryan Danielson Vs. The Second City Saints

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After a humiliating defeat in a tag title match, and a brutal attack afterwards Ace Steel, Colt Cabana and CM Punk took on the ROH Tag Team Champions and American Dragon. The six men put on a great mat wrestling match, with Steel and Red taking to the air to bring the highspots. Steel and Cabana took it to champions, laying Red out with the Colt 45 and dropping Styles with the Twist of Kain. Dragon saved, but alone against the Saints fell victim to a Pepsi Plunge by Punk, and pinned, to boos from the ROH faithful.

Winners: Second City Saints by Pin.

Crowd: 61%

Match: 86%

Overall: 73%

Rating: ***

Xavier Vs. Nick Dinsmore

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The crowd is still warming up to Dinsmore, and were still reeling after two geat matches, so these guys didn't exactly get the reaction I was hoping for. A solid if unspectacular match, with Xavier having control most of the match, despite the boos and chants from the crowd. Dinsmore tried to make a comeback, but was booted to the mat by Xavier and the former ROH champion set up a powerbomb on the newcomer. Dinsmore leapfrogged him, spun around and waistlocked him, hitting a Backdrop Driver for the pin and the victory.

Winner: Nick Dinsmore by Pin.

Crowd: 58%

Match: 78%

Overall: 68%

Rating: **

Dinsmore offers his hand for a handshake after the match, but Xavier refuses, spitting in the face of his opponent to boos from the crowd. Xavier shoves Dinsmore to the mat, but the crowd pops as Raven and Jeff Hardy charge the ring and chase Xavier off. Backup soon follows in the form of the rest of the Prophecy, and we have our next match.

Raven & Jeff Hardy Vs. The Prophecy

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Daniels and Morgan hit the ring running, knocking Hardy from the ring and pounding on Raven. Hardy returned to the ring, taking out Daniels, and Morgan and Raven went at it. Raven dispatched Donovan quickly, and tagged in Hardy, but Jeff fell victim to double teams from the former Tag Champs, becoming the victim of a few near falls before spinkicking Daniels and making the hot tag to Raven. Raven laid out both members of the Prophecy, but Xavier- disregarding the Code of Honor- clubbed Raven in the back of the head, and Morgan hit the Golden Gate Spin for the 3 count. After the match, Maff, Xavier and Luscious hit the ring and the Prophecy destroyed Raven and Hardy, leaving them laid out before departing to a chorus of boos.

Winners: The Prophecy by Pin.

Crowd: 71%

Match: 69%

Overall: 70%

Rating: *1/2

ROH Title

Samoa Joe © Vs. Paul London

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The crowd was solidly behind London in this match, and the challenger put on an great match with the regining ROH champion. Joe tried to pound London into the mat with stiff strikes, but London kept speeding away to retain the advantage. After springing out of the corner with a Drop-sault, London lept with the London Calling. Samoa Joe rolled out of the way however, and London crashed to the mat, with Joe rolling over and locking on a Dragon Sleeper for the submission.

Winner: Samoa Joe by Submission.

Crowd: 66%

Match: 75%

Overall: 70%

Rating: *3/4

Joe refused to release the hold after the match, however, and the crowd broke into boos until Homicide rushed the ring and broke it up. The Champion and Homicide stared each other down as the crowd chanted "Ring of Honor" and the show ended.

Overall: 70 Attendance: 2679

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Best Match: Tony Mamaluke Def. Jay Briscoe

Hottest Match: Prophecy Def. Raven/Hardy

Worst Match: Prophect Def. Raven/Hardy

Coming Soon: ROHWrestling.com update, featuring matches for the All Star Extravaganza!!

Thoughts?

Lando Griffin · August 8, 2003

It's really odd that in ROH of all places the hottest match is the worst match.

Still, I like it, keep it up.

Lightning Flik · August 8, 2003

Good just buddy. Keep it up.

August 9, 2003

Thanks for the Feeback, guys...as for the worst match getting the best reaction, It's because Raven and Daniels are the two most over guys in the fed, despite Raven and Hardy not having the best stats. Anyway, here we go...

November 1st, 2003: ROHWrestling.com

* At Glory by Honor, Homicide rushed the ring to stop Samoa Joe from attacking Paul London. With #1 Contender Low Ki filling Indy commitments, at All Star Extravaganza, the ROH Champion will team with the Prophecy's enforcer Danny Maff to take on Homicide and a partner of his choosing in a Fight without Honor.

* The war between the Prophecy and Raven continues at All Star Extravaganza, as Raven does battle one-on-one with Donovan Morgan. Raven has been laid out by the Prophecy on several occasions, will he be able to overcome the numbers to defeat Morgan?

* Ikuto Hidaka will make his return to Ring of Honor at the All Star Extravaganza, though his opponent is not known at the time.

* At Unscripted, the Backseat Boyz defeated 3 other teams to win a tag team scramble, now Acid and Kasmere want a shot at the tag team titles. The BSB will get their shot at All Star Extravaganza when they take on Styles and Red.

* Christopher Daniels, "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson and Tony Mamaluke will be on tour with NJPW, and will be unavailable for ASE.

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November 9th, 2003: ROHWrestling.com

*AJ Styles suffered a tricep tear at the last NWA:TNA show, and will be unable to make his Ring of Honor commitments for the remainder of 2003. What this means for the scheduled Amazing Phenomenon/Backseat Boyz match at All Star Extravaganza is unclear at this time.

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All Star Extravaganza Card as Announced so far:

Samoa Joe/Danny Maff Vs. Homicide/???- Fight w/o Honor

Raven Vs. Donovan Morgan

??Amazing Phenomenon Vs. Backseat Boyz??

CM Punk Vs. Xavier Vs. Doug Williams Vs. Nick Dinsmore

Appearances by Paul London, Special K, Ikuto Hidaka and more!

Lightning Flik · August 9, 2003

Damn, I hate when unexpected injuries happen.

Here's hoping you can get suitable replacements.

August 10, 2003

Y'know, you'd think I'd have remembered to include the Top 5 rankings in the internet update this time, but...no. So, here are the Ring of Honor Top 5 rankings, courtesy of ROHWrestling.com, for November, 2003:

©: Samoa Joe

#1: Low Ki (#1 Contender's Trophy Holder)

#2: Paul London (Impressive match against the champion at Glory by Honor)

#3: Nick Dinsmore (Up one spot after impressive victory over Xavier in singles debut)

#4: Homicide (Down 2 spots after being inactive last month)

#5: Christopher Daniels (Takes over spot from Raven after his team defeated Raven's at Glory by Honor)

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Ring of Honor presents All Star Extravaganza 2003

November 16th, 2003

The show opened with Amazing Red in the ring, holding both of the ROH Tag Team Title belts over his shoulders. The fans chant for Red as he takes the microphone and announces that AJ Styles will not be at the show due to his Tricep strain. The crowd boos, and breaks out into louder boos as the Midnight Express music hits and The Backseat Boyz hit the ring. Acid says he doesn't care who's here and who isn't, because the BSB are in the house, and they DEMAND a title shot. Red says he has no partner, but Kashmere tells him he better find one, becasue they're cashing in their title shot TONIGHT. Red responds that he has a lot of friends in the back, and tonight he'll bring out one of them whose partner is also on the shelf, and we'll HAVE a Tag Title match. With that, QUIET STORM hits the ring, and hugs Red to a pop, taking the other tag title and holding it in the air. Storm and Red shake hands with the Boyz and stare each other down as the crowd applauds.

Rating: 47%

TAKA Michinoku Vs. Ikuto Hidaka

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The crowd applauded Hidaka's return, but quickly soured on him when he cheapshotted TAKA after the handshake. The crowd continues its mysterious apathy to TAKA, but not for lack of effort, as Michinoku and Hidaka TORE THE HOUSE down with an absolute match of the year caliber contest. The match began on the mat, with Hidaka working the shoulder of TAKA, but quickly escalated into an aerial battle before both men tried to destroy each other with huge moves. TAKA went for the Michinoku Driver II, but his shoulder gave out and Hidaka fell back, spinning around and locking on a Rings of Saturn hold, called the Hidaka-lypse by the announcers, for the impressive submission victory. The crowd applauded the effort of both men after the contest, despite their poor reactions during the match.

Crowd- 46%

Match- 100%

Overall- 73%

Rating: ***3/4

Nova Vs. Jody Fleisch

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At Glory by Honor, Fleisch hit a Phoenix DDT on Nova, leading to the victory for Special K over the Super Amazings, and now Nova is looking for revenge on the high-flyer from England. Fleisch is led to the ring by Special K and a batch of Raver girls, while Nova went it alone. Nova started the match by hitting a plancha to all of Special K at ringside, setting the pace for a high-flying contest. A good, if spotty, match followed, and Nova was able to toss Jody off a Phoenix DDT attempt, and hit the Nova-caine for the pin, and revenge for Glory by Honor. After the competitors shook hands, Special K hit the ring, sending Nova into a defensive stance in anticipation of an attack. Fleisch and Co. just wanted Nova to join their rave, however, sending Nova from the ring shaking his head as Special K danced to the back.

Crowd- 58%

Match- 79%

Overall- 68%

Rating: **1/4

Mark Briscoe Vs. John Walters

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At Unscripted, The Purists got an upset victory over the Briscoe brothers, and last month at Glory by Honor, Jay Briscoe failed in his attempt for revenge on Tony Mamaluke. This month, Mark clashed with Walters in another attempt to regain the momentum for the Briscoes. Walters got the early advantage, and it looked like the Briscoes string of bad luck would continue, but when Mark rolled to the outside, Walters tried a plancha, landing awkardly on his leg on the outside of the ring. With Walters screaming in pain, Mark rolled into the ring and hit a Cut-Throat Suplex, getting the Briscoes first victory over the Purists. As Mark celebrated with the fans on the outside, paramedics tended to Walters in the ring. Good, but short match.

Crowd- 52%

Match- 80%

Overall- 66%

Rating: **

Donovan Morgan Vs. Raven

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Morgan was part of the Prophecy-led attack on Raven at Unscripted, and then last month at Glory by Honor, Raven was pinned by Morgan's Golden Gate Spin to take the fall in the Prophecy/Raven-Hardy tag match, so Raven was looking for revenge here tonight. Raven offered his hand for a handshake, but Morgan just laughed, leading to a forearm by Raven and the start of the match. Morgan tried to ground Raven to get the advantage, but Raven kept tossing him to the outside and pummeling him. Danny Maff and Xavier eventually made their way to the ring, preventing Raven's outside the ring strategy, and Morgangot a sustained advantage. Raven eventually backdropped Donovan to the outside, taking out the Prophecy, and hit the Raven Effect on Morgan to get the pin. Raven tried to leave the ring following the match, but the Prophecy tossed him back into the ring and laid him out. With Raven on the mat, the Prophecy left, celebrating to the jeers of the fans.

Crowd- 75%

Match- 71%

Overall- 73%

Rating: *3/4

Four Way Elimination Match:

Doug Williams Vs. Nick Dinsmore Vs. CM Punk Vs. Xavier

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This match was originally scheduled for the #1 Contender's trophy, but since Low Ki was honoring other commitments and unable to cash in his title shot, he still holds the trophy. The Four men involved put on a great contest anyway, despite the lesser reaction that usually greets the 4 way matches. Dinsmore was eliminated first, as Xavier got revenge for last month, hitting a 450 Splash while Dinsmore was bridging a Backdrop Driver. With Dinsmore out, Punk rolled up Williams for a 2 count, but Doug rolled through, caught Xavier, and hit the Chaos Theory on Xavier for the 2nd elmination. The match heated up when it got down to Williams and Punk, but Punk backflipped out of another Chaos Theory attempt, booting Williams across the face and hitting the Pepsi Plunge for 2. The crowd erupted at the kick out, but Punk reversed a German Suplex into the Devil Lock, getting the submission victory and the win in the match. As the crowd booed, Punk dumped Williams from the ring and called for a mic.

Crowd- 57%

Match- 82%

Overall- 69%

Rating: **1/2

Punk grabbed the microphone from ringside, and to the boos from the crowd, said that he had EARNED the #1 Contender's trophy, and HE should be the one who held it, not some loser like Low Ki, who couldn't even bother to show up tonight. The crowd chanted for Ki as Punk said that if Low Ki was a man he would put the trophy on the line against him next month at Final Battle 2003, and Punk would PROVE that he is "better than you".

ROH Tag Team Titles

Red Storm © Vs.The Backseat Boyz

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Amazing Red and Quiet Storm hit the ring with the tag titles to a great pop, defending the belts against the BSB in place of Amazing Phenomenon. Though the champions had little experience as a tag team, their history as training partners proved beneficial as these two teams ROCKED the Ring of Honor ring with an amazing tag title match. The BSB tried for the Backseat Driver, but Red flipped out, hit a springboard off the top rope and hit a tornado DDT for a 2 count. Storm was tagged in and Red hit a huracanrana into a powerbomb position with Storm. Instead of a Styles Clash though, Quiet Storm slid Acid over his head and into a Gory Special, dropping him with the Spinal Shock for the 3 count. The impromptu champions celebrated with the belts as the crowd gave them a standing ovation.

Crowd- 59%

Match- 90%

Overall- 74%

Rating: ***3/4

Steve Corino Vs. Paul London

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The crowd was hot for London coming off his near-miss with the ROH title, and he and Steve Corino put on a good match despite their differing styles. Corino overpowered Paul at the start of the match, constantly cutting him off before he could hit the ropes for a high-risk move, and aggravating the crowd at the same time. London finally reversed a powerbomb into a rana and hit a moonsault for 2, getting the crowd into it. Corino tried to regain the momentum, but London hit a Tornado DDT, planting Corino in the middle of the ring for the London Calling, and another impressive victory for London.

Crowd- 68%

Match- 80%

Overall- 79%

Rating: **1/2

After the match, the ROH champion Samoa Joe and the Prophecy's Assassin Danny Maff hit the ring in street clothes. They called out Homicide, wondering where his partner was. Homicide grinned, saying he was bringing out someone who was not JUST the baddest MF'er out there, not JUST the best partner available, but JUST INCREDIBLE!

Fight Without Honor

Samoa Joe & Danny Maff Vs. Homicide & Justin Credible

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The fans erupted as Credible came through the curtain, Kendo Stick in hand, and hit the ring. Homicide and Credible were on the offensive early, but no team could sustain an advantage in this WILD brawl. Maff hit a Mafia bomb on Credible, but Homicide broke up the cover and dumped Maff from the ring. Joe clocked Homicide with a Kendo Stick, however, and covered Justin, only getting 2. As Maff and Joe double-teamed Justin on the outside, Homicide grabbed a chair and hurdled the ropes, hitting a chair-assisted somersault plancha to the outside. As the match wound down, Credible nailed Joe with a chair shot, dropping him backwards into a Cop Killer for the pin from Homicide. The fans erupted as Homicide and Credible celebrated and Homicide made the "belt signal" to the fans.

Crowd- 58%

Match- 79%

Overall- 68%

Rating: **1/4

Joe grabbed the belt after the match and held it high, saying that Homicide would NEVER beat him. Homicide just smiled and slapped his hands 3 times, reminding the champ of the pinfall as Joe scowled and the show ended.

Overall: 70% Attendance: 2630

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best Match: Ikuto Hidaka Def. TAKA Michinoku

Hottest Match: Raven Def. Donovan Morgan

Worst Segment: Red Storm/BSB Title confrontation (these guys need help in the Charisma Dept.)

Coming Soon: Matches and news for the last show of the year, Final Battle 2003, including whether or not Low Ki will accept the challenge of CM Punk, and the latest on the conditions of AJ Styles and John Walters.

Comments?

August 10, 2003

I DE-mand more Jeff Hardy! He's so bad it's cool.

Lightning Flik · August 10, 2003

Great stuff. Must agree with the "Poster Formerly Known As Memphis" and demand more awful Hardiness.

August 12, 2003

December 1st, 2003: ROHWrestling.com

* At All Star Extravaganza, CM Punk issued a challenge for Low Ki to put the #1 Contender's trophy on the line. Low Ki is never one to back down from a challenge, and at Final Battle 2003 the Trophy will be decided when Punk and Ki face off for the first time.

* John Walters suffered a leg injury in his match with Mark Briscoe at All Star Extravaganza. Walters will be out for the next six months, and his partner Tony Mamaluke will be wrestling singles from now until then.

*In other injury news, AJ Styles is still on the shelf with a tricep tear, so the team of Red Storm will defend the Ring of Honor Tag Team Titles again at Final Battle against the Second City Saints of Colt Cabana and Ace Steel.

* At All Star Extravaganza, Homicide scored a pinfall victory over Samoa Joe in a tag team fight without honor. With the #1 Contendership up for grabs between CM Punk and Low Ki, Homicide will try to repeat that feat as he takes on Joe for the ROH Title.

* Ring of Honor is in some important negotiations, both with talent and other ventures that promise to make a big impact in the near future.

* ROH would like to congratulate Bryan Danielson, Christopher Daniels and Tony Mamaluke on a successful tour with NJPW, and wish Donovan Morgan, Doug Williams and Ikuto Hidaka best of luck on their current tour with Pro Wrestling NOAH.

* Ring of Honor Top 5 Rankings for December 2003:

©: Samoa Joe

#1: Low Ki (Current #1 Contender's Trophy Holder)

#2: CM Punk (Will face Low Ki for the Trophy at Final Battle)

#3: Homicide (Pinned Samoa Joe in a tag team match at ASE)

#4: Raven (Avenged Pinfall over Donovan Morgan to regain his spot on the Contender's list)

#5: Paul London (Drops 3 spots, but impressive win over Steve Corino keeps him on list)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Final Battle 2003 Card as announced so far:

Samoa Joe Vs. Homicide - ROH Title

Red Storm Vs. Second City Saints- ROH Tag Titles

Low Ki Vs. CM Punk- #1 Contender's Trophy

Xavier Vs. Raven

Briscoe Brothers Vs. Backseat Boyz

August 13, 2003

Well, its been an exciting year for Ring of Honor. Samoa Joe has dominated the promotion as the champion for 9 months, and feuds a plenty have been brewing, including a huge issue brewing between Raven and Christopher Daniels. With Daniels and the Prophecy leaving Raven laying in the middle of the ring for 3 straight months, how will Raven respond? Plus, The Tag Team scene is a buzz, but just who ARE the champions? We're in for a blockbuster card to end the year, so hold on tight.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ring of Honor Presents: Final Battle 2003

Live From Dayton, OH

The show begins with Raven's music hitting over the PA system. The fans erupt as Raven hits the ring, and grabs a microphone. Raven says he has NO idea why Christopher Daniels hates him, but he's sick and tired of the Prophecy double teaming, triple teaming and gang attacking him at every turn. He claims that all that ENDS tonight, because tonight he brought backup. The crowd erupts as Jeff Hardy, Julio Dinero and Alexis Laree make their way to the ring, announced as the FLOCK by Raven. He says that there's no way the Prophecy will lay him out again, and that tonight, he'd destroy Xavier just like he destroyed Donovan Morgan last month.

Rating: 92%

(Raven on the mic is gold, and the new Flock team of Dinero, Hardy and Laree seemed to go over well with the crowd, so this worked much better than our opening segment last month that involved Red and Quiet Storm talking.)

Paul London & Spanky Vs. Michael Shane & Scoot Andrews

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Both Spanky and London have previous issues with Michael Shane, so Shane recruited ring of Honor returnee Scoot Andrews as his tag partner to prove to the two former TWA stars turned former WWE stars that it was HIM all along that deserved a big time break. Scoot and Spanky started out, with Spanky gaining the advantage and sending Scoot to the ropes. Scoot tries to tag out, but Shane insists he keep working, but London also sends Andrews running. Shane tags himself in, finally gaining control over Spanky and allowing Scoot and himself to work over Spanky. Scoot hits the Force of Nature, but Shane demands he be tagged in to hit the Picture Perfect Elbow. The time it takes arguing however, allows Spanky to move out of the way and make the hot tag to London. London takes control, and hits the London Calling on Shane for the pin and the victory. Shane and Scoot argue after the match, but eventually shake hands and leave.

Crowd- 60%

Match- 88%

Overall- 74%

Rating: ***

(Good response for Scoot returning and for London and Shane who are the most over from this group. The 4 of them also put on a great match, so no complaints.)

Steve Corino Vs. "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Danielson is coming off a tour with NJPW, and Corino off a string of losses, so both men were looking for the win here to regain their momentum. Dragon dominated the early part of the match, keeping Corino on the ground and setting the pace. Corino eventually got the advantage by tossing Danielson from the ring and brawling, before Dragon hit the Roaring Elbow and a Dragon Suplex for 2. Corino tired to hit a belly-to-belly, but Danielson held on, rolled over and bridged into the Cattle Mutilation for the submission victory. Corino flipped out after the loss, not even shaking hands before storming off.

Crowd- 71%

Match- 80%

Overall- 75%

Rating: **1/2

(Well, the crowd was HOT for this match, but Dragon and Corino have contrasting styles, so the match was not nearly as good as it could have been. Oh well, we'll try matching them up with someone else.)

Backseat Boyz Vs. Briscoe Brothers

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tag Team action here, and both teams got a luke-warm reaction coming out. The crowd was into it by the end however, as the Briscoes and Backseatz TORE it up with an absolutely AMAZING tag match. After a feeling out process, the BSB double teamed Jay, cutting him off from his brother for over 10 minutes and continuing his streak of bad luck. Acid missed a moonsault however, and Jay was able to dropkick Kashmere and get the hot tag to Mark. Mark Briscoe disposed of both Backseats, but couldn't put either Acid or Kashmere away, getting several close 2 counts before the Backseats regained control and hit the Backseat Driver for a close 2 count on Mark. Mark tagged out to Jay, who escaped a T-Gimmick and hit the Jay Driller on Kashmere for the victory. The crowd applauded the Briscoes as they hugged and left after an awesome match.

Crowd- 54%

Match- 100%

Overall- 77%

Rating: ****

(Wow. Didn't expect that from a match that was just thrown together like that, but these guys put on an awesome show. I'll keep this in mind and match these two up again when they're more over.)

Nick Dinsmore Vs. Christopher Daniels

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

The crowd booed Daniels out of the building, and gave a good sized ovation to Dinsmore, who is slowly but surely getting over. Dinsmore kept Daniels grounded, but the Fallen Angel prevented him from maintaining momentum for long. Daniels got the advantage mid-way through the match and hit Dinsmore with the Fall from Grace, following up with the Triple Jump moonsault, but hitting only knees on the way down. Dinsmore retook control, but Daniels flipped out of a German Suplex attempt and hit the Angel's Wings to en a good match and deal Dinsmore his first singles loss in ROH.

Crowd- 70%

Match- 85%

Overall- 77%

Rating: ***

(Good match that went about as well as I expected it to. Dinsmore is slowly starting to get over, and it will probably only take me finding him a good program to push him into the upper level. Unfortunately he doesn't have much of a personality so that could take work.)

Raven Vs. Xavier

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At Glory by Honor it was Xavier's interference that cost Raven's team their tag team match with the Prophecy. Last month, Raven avenged the pinfall with a victory over Donovan Morgan, and this month he looked to get revenge on Morgan's Prophecy team-mate Xavier. The crowd was on fire, as they always are for Raven's matches, and Raven and Xavier put on a perfectly acceptable match. Xavier tried to beat Raven at his own game, but Raven out brawled him and drove him to the mat with a piledriver for 2. Simply Luscious tried to regain the advantage for Xavier, but Raven reversed an X-Breaker into a Raven Effect and got the pinfall, continuing his dominance over the Prophecy.

Crowd- 75%

Match- 72%

Overall- 74%

Rating: **

After the match, Xavier refused a handshake, and Danny Maff and Chris Daniels charged the ring to lay Raven out. They were cut off by Jeff Hardy, Julio Dinero and Alexis Laree, and The Prophecy stopped and shook their heads before Daniels called them off and headed for the back with a smile on his face.

(The Raven/Prophecy feud continues to be the hottest thing in the promotion, despite Raven continously putting on the lowest rated matches on the card.)

ROH Tag Team Titles

Red Storm © Vs. The Second City Saints

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

The makeshift tag team champions continue to impress by putting on some great matches. The Saints of Steel and Cabana impressed as well, though the Saints aren't as over as some might hope. Steel and Cabana overpowered the much smaller Red and Storm for the majority of the match, keeping them on the mat and preventing them from taking to the air. When Amazing Red was able to take control, Red and Quiet Storm turned up the pace and hit Steel with a flurry of high-flying offensive moves. Storm hit the Storm Cradle Driver on Steel, but Cabana saved and took control. Red was able to block the Colt 45, and hit a springboard Hurricane Kick before the champions hit the rana into Spinal Shock for the victory. The crowd applauded the champs after the match as Red and Storm celebrated with the belts.

Crowd- 53%

Match- 86%

Overall- 69%

Rating: **3/4

(Red and Quiet Storm impressed me with their filling in as tag team champs, though the Second City Saints aren't as over as they should be to present a credible threat to the tag titles)

#1 Contender's Trophy

Low Ki (Trophy Holder) Vs. CM Punk

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Punk and Low Ki did battle for the first time in ROH with a World Title shot at Death before Dishonor on the line, and both men were on FIRE, putting on an AMAZING match that had the crowd on their feet and cheering by the end of it. Punk tried for a quick victory, but was quickly backed off by kicks to the face from Ki, and the trophy holder took it to the mat. Punk was able to hold his own, but it was Ki who came out on top and started to pumell the challenger. Punk eventually gained the upper hand, hitting a Pepsi Plunge for the two count when Ki got his foot on the ropes. Punk was obviously unhappy and went to lock on the Devil Lock, but Ki shoved him to the corner and hit a Tidal Wave for 2. Punk countered the Ki Krusher and went up top, but Ki followed and hit the Ki Krusher '99 off the top for a "holy shit" chant from the crowd and the 3 count. The crowd gave both men a standing ovation after the great match.

Crowd- 68%

Match- 97%

Overall- 82%

Rating: ****

(Awesome match, and these two REALLY delivered on this one. Punk is justifiably more over than his SCS partners, and Ki is one of the top guys in the promotion, so a second 4 star match of the night is great news)

ROH Title

Samoa Joe © Vs. Homicide

-------------------------------------------------------------------------These two men do NOT like each other, and it showed in this BRUTAL strong stlye match. Joe tried to brutalize and batter Homicide into submission, but the challenger refused to give up, and so the champ had to resort to trying to get the pin. Homicide kicked out of various pin attempts, eventually hitting a pair of Powerbombs for a close 2 count. With the crowd on their feet, Homicide went for the Cop Killer, but Joe dropped into a Tomikaze for an extremely close near fall. As both men struggled to their feet, the champ hit an Island Driver for the 3 count. The fans booed the decision, and Homicide was obviously dejected at the loss, but both men shook hands after the match and Homicide promised that this wasn't over.

Crowd- 69%

Match- 78%

Overall- 73%

Rating: **1/4

(These guys had a better match than their Unscripted one, and the crowd was more into it thanks to the events of the past two months. It doesn't look like these two are done yet though.)

Overall: 74% Attendance: 2804

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best Match: Briscoe Brothers Def. Backseat Boyz

Hottest Match: Raven Def. Xavier

Worst Match: Raven Def. Xavier

Coming Soon: Where Ring of Honor's wrestlers placed on the IWC Top 100 wrestlers of the year 2003, plus a HUGE announcement affecting the future of Ring of Honor in 2004 and announcements about Death Before Dishonor.

Comments?

Lightning Flik · August 13, 2003

Funny that your hottest match is your worst match.

Yet, I'm hoping you build to bigger things. Your diary is going over well and I'm definitely enjoying it.

King Cucaracha · August 13, 2003

Good stuff, Todd Damn it's good stuff.

Jeff Hardy in The Flock is a good, smart move. Awful Hardyness is good. I just wish CM Punk were as over in TNA as he is in RoH, so my Raven/Punk feud would have more than 25 heat.

But good stuff...keep it up, and read my diary...please.

August 14, 2003

But good stuff...keep it up, and read my diary...please.

I have, and I dont appreciate the pot shots, champ-boy.

Anyway, with 2003 behind us, the know-it-alls on the 'net have released their top 100 Workers, including more than a few ROH talents. Keep in mind however, that this is the same internet that keeps reporting the Hulk Hogan is close to signing a ROH contract, so take it with a grain of salt.

Top 100:

#88: Ace Steel

#87: Julio Dinero

#81: BJ Whitmer

#78: Xavier

#76: Nick Dinsmore

#74: Tony Mamaluke

#70: Johnny Kashmere

#64: Michael Shane

#62: Steve Corino

#59: Jay Briscoe

#56: Jody Fleisch

Top 50:

#49: Trent Acid

#44: Colt Cabana

#40: Mark Briscoe

#38: Paul London

#37: Donovan Morgan

#25: CM Punk

#24: Scoot Andrews

#22: Bryan Danielson

#20: Ikuto Hidaka

Top 10:

#7: TAKA Michinoku

#5: AJ Styles

#4: Christopher Daniels

#3: Low Ki

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

January 1st, 2004: ROHWrestling.com

* At Final Battle, Low Ki pinned CM Punk in a classic battle for the #1 Contender's trophy, and at Death Before Dishonor, Low Ki will finally cash in his title shot against Samoa Joe. Will Ki regain his title, or will Joe continue his reign of Dominance in ROH?

* Beginning January 2nd, 2004 Ring of Honor is proud to present the RETURN of Ring of Honor High Impact TV!! The first episode of High Impact TV on TVA will feature the tag team debut of Julio Dinero and Jeff Hardy as they face off against Special K, the debut of The Callis Truth with Don Callis- featuring special guest Christopher Daniels, and a HUGELY anticipated Ring of Honor debut. Tune in!!

* AJ Styles has fully recovered from his Tricep Tear and will return to Ring of Honor competition at Death Before Dishonor. What does Styles think of Quiet Storm defending the tag titles in his place the last 2 months, however? We'll find out when Styles joins the Callis Truth on January 9th!

* In the last two months, Raven has gained a measure of revenge over the Prophecy with victories over Donovan Morgan and Xavier. Raven feels that this earns him a shot at Chris Daniels, but does the Fallen Angel feel the same? Daniels will address this, and his reasons for his hatred towards Raven on High Impact TV.

* Ring of Honor Top 5 Rankings for January, 2004:

©: Samoa Joe

#1: Low Ki (#1 Contender's Trophy)

#2: Raven (Up 2 spots after Impressive string of victories continues with win over Xavier at Final Battle)

#3: Homicide (Retains #3 spot with close title match at FB2003)

#4: Bryan Danielson (Returns to Top 5 with victory over Steve Corino)

#5: Paul London (Holds onto #5 spot after scoring pinfall in tag team match at Final Battle)

(Just Missed: CM Punk, Christopher Daniels)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Death Before Dishonor Card as announced so far:

Samoa Joe Vs. Low Ki- ROH Title

CM Punk Vs. Bryan Danielson- #1 Contender's Trophy

Briscoe Brothers Vs. Spanish Announce Team

Nick Dinsmore Vs. Colt Cabana

August 16, 2003

Well, We're starting the year 2004 off with a bang, as we debut the first episode of our new TV show. Hopefully it will prove NOT to be a huge money pit, and will instead help us get people over who routinely get sqeezed out of our Big Show's lineups (Read: everyone's favorite blown spot machine- Jeff Hardy). Speaking on which, he main events the return of...

ROH High Impact TV: Episode I

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We're live from the Murphy Rec in Philly for ROH's TV return, and we start with some fast paced action...

TAKA Michinoku Vs. Trent Acid

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TAKA is still perpetually Un-over, despite his overness rating telling me otherwise, which means his gimmick will be tweaked soon. He continues to bring the awesome matches though, putting on a good high-flying contest with one half of the BSB to welcome ROH back to television. Acid tried to beat Michinoku into the mat, but the international star controlled the pace of the match, eventually nailing Acid with the Michinoku Driver II for the pinfall. Perfectly acceptable opener.

Crowd- 45%

Match- 85%

Overall- 65%

Rating: **1/4

After our first commercial break, we come back with chairs set up in the ring, and RF video commentator for Ring of Honor events, Don Callis seated in one of them for the debut of The Callis Truth. The crowd boos the former Cyrus/Jackal as he brings out the leader of the Prophecy, Christopher Daniels for his first guest. Callis questions why Daniels and the Prophecy seem to hate Raven so much, a question that has been on the minds of ROH fans lately. Daniels laughs and reminds everyone what a joke the code of Honor is. He says that everone is blindly following a set of rules that make no sense, and only the Prophecy is able to see the truth. Daniels says that he though if anyone, Raven would not conform like everyone else. When he saw Raven shaking hands after matches, he had a fit. He USED to respect Raven, he USED to look up to Raven as someone who refused to conform, but now he realizes Raven is no better than all of the other Prophecy victims, and he's determined to DESTROY Raven for misleading him and everyone else. But Raven still hasn't proven himself worthy of a match with Daniels. So, Daniels will face Raven...but ONLY if Raven can get by the Prophecy's Assassin Danny Maff at Death Before Dishonor. The audience booed as the Fallen Angel tossed the mic down and stormed off, ending a great promo.

Rating: 89%

After the set comes down, the fans stand confused as unfamiliar music hits. A mix of cheers and boos then are heard as TNA ring girl/cult favorite Athena makes her way to the ROH ring, a microphone in hand. Athena says she's here because Ring of Honor needs a hero. People like Low Ki, American Dragon and Raven are not heroes, they're posers. So, she says, she's here to introduce everyone to a man that is not ONLY her hero, not ONLY the fan's future hero, but the man that is...CHRIS HERO! The fans booed as Foo Fighter's "My Hero" played and a grinning Chris Hero strolled to ringside.

Rating: 62%

Chris Hero Vs. Frankie Kazarian

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

With it being Hero's first ROH appearance, the crowd hasn't yet warmed to him, but he and Kazarian still put on a very good match. With Athena cheering him on at ringside, Hero got the early advantage, grounding Kazarian and controlling the pace. Frankie was able to fight out, leveling Hero with a kick and taking to the air with a series of high-flying moves, but Hero eventually stopped him with a top rope powerbomb, and finished Frankie with the Hero's Welcome to pick up his first victory in Ring of Honor.

Crowd- 54%

Match- 81%

Overall- 67%

Rating: **1/4

Before going to break, we were treated to a video montage of the Ring of Honor champion, Samoa Joe. Clips of Joe pummelling Homicide, Paul London, BJ Whitmer, Low Ki and others were shown as a camera shot panned the Ring of Honor title belt. As the package ended with a shot of the Champion, bruised and battered, raising the title in the air, a graphic read "Samoa Joe. Low Ki. Ring of Honor Title. DEATH BEFORE DISHONOR."

Rating: 62%

Tony Mamaluke Vs. BJ Whitmer

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mamaluke is fresh off the same tour of NJPW that Chris Daniels and Bryan Danielson went on, and while overseas lost his partner John Walters to injury. Whitmer is one of those guys who has just been squeezed out of recent big shows, so both guys were looking to make an impact here. They delivered in spades, with an AWESOME TV match. Mamaluke tried to ground and pound BJ, but the larger Whitmer was able to gain control and hit a series of suplexes for some nearfalls, before Mamaluke went to the submissions for some close falls of his own. As Mamluke tried to lock on the Sicilian Stretch, Whitmer grabbed his arm and rolled through into a crucifix pin, getting the 3 count and the win. Really good match.

Crowd- 57%

Match- 95%

Overall- 76%

Rating: ***3/4

Before our last commercial break, were saw a clip (furnished by RF Video) of Final Battle 2003 and the formation of the Flock under Raven. Raven's speech was cut with clips of Alexis Laree, Jeff Hardy and Julio Dinero in action in various independants, before finally finishing with a shot of all 4 Flock Members standing in the ring with a Raven voice-over saying simply: "Never More".

Rating: 95%

The Flock Vs. Special K

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Flock here was Dinero and Hardy, while Special K was represented by Jody Fleisch and Hydro. As is beginning to become a thread, the crowd was hot for the Flockers, though their match was far from the best. Hydro and Julio did some mat wrestling to begin the match before it broke down into an aerial battle, with all 4 men hitting dives to the outside, and Fleisch hitting a Phoenix DDT to the outside on Dinero. Back in the ring, Hardy floored Hydro and hit Jody with Poetry in Motion off the back of Hydro to send Fleisch to the outside. Dinero slid into the ring and planted Hydro with the Theartre of Pain before Hardy hit the Swanton Bomb for the pin. Alexis celebrated with the Flock as the show went off the air.

Crowd- 59%

Match- 72%

Overall- 65%

Rating: *1/2

Overall: 71%, Rating: 2.86, Attendance: 472

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best Match: BJ Whitmer Def. Tony Mamaluke

Worst Match: The Flock(Hardy/Dinero) Def. Special K(Hydro/Fleisch)

Hottest Match: The Flock Def. Special K.

Next Week: AJ Styles is in the hot seat on the Callis Truth to discuss the Tag Team Title situation, Chris Hero returns to action in Ring of Honor, Jimmy Rave takes on Joey Matthews and Danny Maff tunes up for Raven against Jose Maximo. Tune in SOON!

August 16, 2003

Well, the ROH TV train rolls forward, and gets caught on a big of a snag. We have "one of those nights", and something, somewhere goes horribly wrong. Plus more craptastic Flock action!!! Stay tuned, its...

ROH High Impact TV: Episode II

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The show started with Special K already in the ring, with Techno music blaring and glowsticks waving. As the music died and the lights came on, we had our first match.

Joey Matthews Vs. Jimmy Rave

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matthews is of course, repping Special K in this match, while Rave is representing for the bunch of guys who I've been wanting to use, but haven't had a place for on shows. Also present in this match? The "one of those days" bug that screws with match ratings and will show up in ALL matches tonight. Yay. Anyway, Matthews and Rave put on a good match despite it, taking to the air and flying around like Kamikaze pilots. Rave tried a headscissors, but Matthews tossed hom from the ring, sending him spinning down onto Special K at ringside. As Rave got to his feet, Matthews leaped over the top rope and plancha'd him, driving him into the ground. Joey tossed Rave back under the ropes and hit a springboard body press back in, getting the 3 count on Rave. The crowd booed as Special K danced in celebration.

Crowd- 49%

Match- 77%

Overall- 56%

Rating: *3/4

After a commercial break, we were back in the Murphy for the second installment of The Callis Truth with your host, Don Callis. Callis brought out his guest and one-half of the tag team champs(?) AJ Styles. Callis questions Styles about his injury and missing time, and how he felt about Quiet Storm defending the titles in his absensce. Styles says he doesn't mind Storm defending his belt, but he's been healthy for a few weeks now, and Storm still hasn't returned his belt. With that, Amazing Red and Quiet Storm hit the ring, Tag Team belts in tow. Styles tries to take his belt from Storm, but Storm refuses, saying he's defended the belt against two of the best teams in the world, and he's EARNED the right to call himself a tag champ. Styles disagrees, saying he NEVER lost the belt. Before a brawl can break out, Amazing Red breaks them up and Callis intervenes, suggesting a one on one match at Death Before Dishonor, with the winner claiming the other Tag Title. Storm and Styles agree and the trio shakes hands, going to leave before Callis adds that he feels Red would make a GREAT impartial ref. Red shoots a glare at the host, but reluctantly agrees, and the trio leaves, Red Storm still in possession of the belts.

Rating: 62%

Before we head back to commercial, we get a video package highlighting the Ring of Honor career of Low Ki. Highlighting everything from the Triple Threat match at the Era of Honor begins, to his title victory at Crowning a Champion to his recent win over CM Punk at Final Battle 2003, the package comes to a close with a graphic reminiscent of last week. "Low Ki. Samoa Joe. ROH Title. DEATH BEFORE DISHONOR"

Rating: 72%

Julio Dinero Vs. Chris Hero

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hero is accompanied by the "Goddess" Athena, while Dinero is seconded by Flock mistress Alexis Laree. Not a great match, as has become the norm for the Flockers, but a fairly heated match that Hero carried. Of course that damn bug dragged it down as well. Dinero leapt at Hero right out of the gate, flooring him with enziguri's and flying body presses, before being caught by Hero and tossed over the top rope onto Alexis. As Julio gets back onto the apron, Hero catches him and suplexes him back in on his head. With Dinero down, Athena signals for the end, and Hero delivers the Hero's Welcome getting the victory and continuing his string of success.

Crowd- 57%

Match- 69%

Overall- 56%

Rating: *1/4

Backstage, we see the Maximo Brothers of the SAT warming up and talking between each other, both about the Red-Storm-Styles situation, and about Jose's upcoming match with Danny Maff. This was supposed to turn the previously Tweener SAT face, but only Joel turned the way he was supposed to. Jose must have wandered into Special K's locker room, because he was a bit confused and turned heel instead. Crap. Also, these guys aren't the most charismatic in the world. Add that to the bug and you get a BAD segment.

Rating: 63%

Scoot Andrews Vs. BJ Whitmer

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Whitmer continues to impress the hell out of me, turning in his second blow away match of the night in as many weeks, this month with Scoot Andrews. Scoot just recently returned to the ROH and has been limited to a tag match loss at FB03 because I simply don't have room for him on the card. Scoot took out those frustrations on BJ early in the match, grounding him and trying to get a submission. Whitmer refused to quit however, bridging out of a reverse front chancery to drop Scoot on his head and following up with a Powerbomb for 2. Scoot went for the Forces of Nature late in the match, but Whitmer slipped out the back and hit a German Suplex for 2. Whitmer tried to set Andrews up for the DVD, but Andrews countered out into a crucifix for 2. Scoot charged, but Whitmer caught him with a snap DVD for the 3. GREAT match, marred only by that damn bug.

Crowd- 55%

Match- 92%

Overall- 65%

Rating: ***1/2

Before we took our last commercial break, a video package rolled, highlighting the upcoming Danny Maff/Raven match for Death Before Dishonor. Highlights were set to the Daniels interview from last week, and showed Maff destroying Jeff Hardy at Unscripted, and the Assassin participating in the numerous beat downs of Raven over the last few months. Finally, it shows Raven defeating Donovan Morgan and Xavier over the last two weeks, then a picture of Daniels. "2 Down....ONE to go?" With a menacing picture of Maff to end it. The bug even affected the normally hot Raven segment.

Rating: 78%

Danny Maff Vs. Jose Maximo

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Well. I didn't expect this to be a good match, but it was surprisingly adequate for a squash. HOWEVER, Jose's odd and unanticipated heel turn KILLED the crowd heat for this match. Couple that with our bug and this match was not good. Anyway, your basic squash as Jose tried to take Maff down with a series of high-flying moves and lucha arm drags, but ended up with Maximo on the mat and Maff and Simply Luscious laughing at him. Jose went up top, but was caught with a chokeslam off the top rope. As Jose lay on the mat, The Prophecy's assassin toyed with him for a minute or two before delivering a huge Mafia Bomb to Maximo and pinning him for 3. With Maximo down Maff delivered a second Mafia bomb, and then left with Luscious to boos from the crowd.

Crowd- 40%

Match- 77%

Overall- 52%

Rating: *1/2

Overall Rating: 61%, Rating: 2.84, Attendance: 464

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Best Match: BJ Whitmer Def. Scoot Andrews

Worst Match: Chris Hero Def. Julio Dinero

Hottest Match: Chris Hero Def. Julio Dinero

Next Week: Hopefully no sucking like this week. Frankie Kazarian will face off against Slim J, Michael Shane is in action against Christian York, and Chris Hero and Athena pay a visit to The set of the Callis Truth.

News: Paul London is the injury of the month, suffering a broken nose that will keep him off of Death Before Dishonor. BJ Whitmer and his impressive streak will replace him against Chris Daniels.

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Death Before Dishonor Lineup as announced so far:

Samoa Joe Vs. Low Ki- ROH Title

AJ Styles Vs. Quiet Storm- Claim to 1/2 of the ROH Tag Titles (Special Guest Ref: Amazing Red)

CM Punk Vs. Bryan Danielson- #1 Contender's Trophy

Raven Vs. Danny Maff

Christopher Daniels Vs. BJ Whitmer

Briscoe Brothers Vs. Spanish Announce Team

Nick Dinsmore Vs. Colt Cabana

August 18, 2003

We keep rolling towards Death Before Dishonor, with another episode of High Impact TV. We had a bump in the road in last weeks show, but hopefully we can recover and deliver another good effort this week. Its time for...

ROH High Impact TV: Episode III

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Once again, we start the show with the members of Special K in the ring. The lights soon come back on and the rave ends, with all of Special K abandoning the ring except for 1.

Slim J Vs. Frankie Kazarian

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Last week, Special K member Joey Matthews got an upset victory over Jimmy Rave, and this week his partner Slim J looked to continue the trend against Frankie Kazarian. Kazarian and J didn't even bother with pretenses of mat wrestling, taking to the air and soaring right from the get go. A Dropkick sent Kazarian flying to ringside, and Slim J tried to follow up, hurdling the corner and hitting a plancha to the outside. Frankie rolled out of the way, however, and J ended up taking Matthews, Fleisch, Hydro and the rest of Special K out instead. Kazarian took the opportunity to powerbomb Slim J on the outside and roll him back in, but only got a count of 2. Frankie went up top for the Flux Capacitator, but J shoved him to the mat and hit the Miracle Slim Jammer for the pin and the victory. As Kazarian looked on shocked, all of the Special K members entered the ring and shook his hand, then danced around him as we went to commercial.

Crowd- 55%

Match- 73%

Overall- 64%

Rating: *1/2

When we returned from commercial, Don Callis was in the ring prepared for The Callis Truth. This week, Callis was joined by "The Goddess" Athena, and "Everyone's Hero" Chris Hero, the newest pair in ROH. Callis asked Athena what her goals were, and Athena just laughed, saying that she was here to give Ring of Honor a Hero. Callis mentioned names like Chris Daniels, Samoa Joe, Steve Corino and Don Callis, of course, as some of HIS heroes, but Athena said that they were just side kicks compared to the greatness of Hero. Callis agreed, and congratulated Chris on his recent victories, and Hero went to respond, but Athena took the microphone and said it was just part of the Hero's Conquest, and that it would continue tonight when Joel Maximo recieved a "Hero's Welcome" into his future! The Callis Interview segments always go over well.

Rating: 74%

Scoot Andrews Vs. TAKA Michinoku

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Well, I STILL haven't figured out why the crowd's reaction to Michinoku is always half what it should be, but that doesn't stop TAKA from bringing the awesome, putting on yet another Match of the Year Candidate. TAKA started the match off hot, dropkicking Scoot to the mat and hitting a series of armdrags and headscissors takedowns to send Scoot flying from the ring to recover. As Andrews caught his breath, TAKA soared from the ring, but Scoot hit a dropkick to the flying Michinoku to take control. Andrews hit the ring, grounding TAKA and trying to get a submission victory. Michinoku fought back, and tried for an Asai Moonsault, but Scoot speared him out of the sky and went for the Force of Nature. TAKA slipped out the back, however, bringing Scoot up with him and dropping down into the Michinoku Driver II. GREAT match, with the usual low TAKA reaction. I wish I could figure that out.

Crowd- 45%

Match- 100%

Overall- 72%

Rating: ***3/4

Before we went to commerical we got another video package hyping the upcoming ROH Title match at Death Before Dishonor. Highlights of the first Samoa Joe-Low Ki encounter at Glory By Honor I, along with individual highlights from each man were set to a booming, hard hitting rock song. As the tempo increased, shots of champion and challenger firing off kicks to opponents flasghed by rapid fire, increasing to a blinding speed before exploding into a shot of the Ring of Honor Title. As the music ended, a graphic again flashed across the screen. "Samoa Joe. Low Ki. ROH Title. DEATH BEFORE DISHONOR."

Rating: 60%

After a commerical break, we were backstage with Michael Shane. Shane said that he was sick and tired of being left off of Ring of Honor shows, while no talent hacks like Nick Dinsmore, Jeff Hardy and TAKA got ring time. He claimed that "The Blood of Champions" flows through his veins, and that he was without a doubt the Showstopper. Tonight, he had a chance to prove it, taking on another of the "Thousands" of imitators to his family legacy- Christian York. He said idiots like York may try to replicate the success of "The Dynasty" but there was only ONE showstopper. MICHAEL SHANE!

Rating: 69%

Chris Hero Vs. Joel Maximo

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The crowd is still mighty confused about the Maximo brothers, so this match didn't get the crowd rating I was hoping for. Hero and Maximo put on a really good match, however, with Joel flying around the ring when he was in control. Hero knew he couldn't keep up with Maximo in speed, so everytime he lost control he bailed, preventing Joel from getting a sustained advantage. Joel went for the Maximo Explosion, but Hero rolled through with a sunset flip for 2. Hero tried a powerbomb, but Joel went through with a rana for another 2 count. Maximo went up for a high-risk move, but Hero rolled out of the way of a 450, and hit the Hero's Welcome on Joel for the pin. Hero shook Maximo's hand after the match, but then leveled him, drawing Jose out for the save. Hopefully that solved the Maximo confusion issue.

Crowd- 44%

Match- 80%

Overall- 62%

Rating: **

Before we went to our last commercial, a hype video aired for new ROH competitor Nick Dinsmore. Highlights of Dinsmore's matches over the last 4 months were set to a classical music theme, with shots of Dinsmore delivering Backdrop Drivers to BJ Whitmer, CM Punk and Christopher Daniels. The theme of "Mr. Wrestling" was played up throughout the package, but Dinsmore's lack of Personality transcends even video production.

Rating: 59%

Christian York Vs. Michael Shane

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York and Shane have similar styles, and they meshed really well, turning in a match that would have been a sure fire match of the night if not for TAKA and Scoot's earlier classic. Shane and York started out with a lengthy mat wrestling sequence, trading reversals and maintaining a stalemate. Both men eventually backed off, drawing a cheer from the crowd, but as York thanked the fans for their appreciation, Shane charged with a knee, sending Christian over the top rope to the floor. As York crashed to the ground, Shane launched out after him with a plancha. Shane rolled York back into the ring and hit a series of high impact moves, getting several 2 counts. When Shane tried the Picture Perfect Elbow, however, York rolled out of the way and hit a neckbreaker for 2. York tried for a Superkick, but Shane caught his foot and spun him around, hitting Sweet Shane Music for the 3 count. Really good match.

Crowd- 58%

Match- 93%

Overall- 75%

Rating: ***1/2

Overall Rating: 67%, Rating: 3.00, Attendance: 513

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Best Match: TAKA Michinoku Def. Scoot Andrews

Worst Match: Slim J Def. Frankie Kazarian

Hottest Match: Michael Shane Def. Christian York

Well, better show this week, including hitting our highest rating and attendance numbers. Also, without a single Flock member on the card, we have a non-flock worst match, and the worst and hottest matches are different for the first time. Woohoo.

Next Week: Christian York does battle with Special K's Hydro, Jeff Hardy returns to singles action against Johnny Kashmere, Nick Dinsmore in action and Steve Corino visits Don Callis on the Callis Truth. Tune in...its coming...SOON

August 19, 2003

We're one show out of Death Before Dishonor, so things are getting interesting. Not that most of the guys on this show are gonna play a big part of it, but Still...its the EXCITEMENT! It's also...

ROH High Impact TV: Episode IV

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Well, instead of the 20 minute promo of DOOM to start the show, we're sticking with the 3 minute RAVE of Doom. Not Jimmy Rave though. He's not on the show this week. Anyway, Special K bails from the ring, leaving Hydro alone for this weeks opener.

Hydro Vs. Christian York

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Christian is coming off a really impressive match with Michael Shane on last week's show, but Special K has notched two consecutive opening wins on HITV, so who knows. Flying abounds early on as York and Hydro take to the air, and Christian ended a criss-cross by backdropping Hydro over the ropes to the outside. As Special K tried to get Hydro to his feet, but York hit a somersault plancha over the top to take out Special K at ringside. Sliding Hydro into the ring, York went for a springboard moonsault, but Hydro lifted his knees and went to work, delivering a spinning powerbomb and going up top. Hydro went to the top rope, but spent too much time dancing, and York caught up with him. Hydro grabbed York behind the neck however, and dropped him with a Tornado DDT off the top for the upset. Really good opener, as Hydro is more solid than most of his partners.

Crowd- 54%

Match- 84%

Overall- 69%

Rating: **1/2

After a commerical break, we were once again graced by the presence of Don Callis for another engaging episode of The Callis Truth. This week, Callis' guest was Steve Corino, and Corino didn't even let Callis ask a question before tearing into a promo. He blamed Low Ki for winning HIS #1 contender match a few months back, and for starting his losing streak. Callis mentioned that Ki would cash in that titleshot, causing Corino to scowl before grinning and saying that he HOPES Low Ki would win the ROH Title from Samoa Joe at Death Before Dishonor, because he wants to get his revenge on Ki, AND the World Title in the same match. Corino mockingly wished Ki good luck at DBD, and said he'd be FIRST in line to take the title. Average Callis show.

Rating: 74%

A video package aired, highlighting title defenses of Amazing Phenomenon, before a gray'ed out picture of Styles flashed onto the screen, and ominous music played. The tempo slowly picked back up as we saw Red hand half the titles to Quiet Storm and built back to its pace with highlights of Red Storm's title defenses. The gray'ed picture of AJ then flashed back on the screen, slowly recoloring, as the ominous tone resumed and highlights of Styles/Red/Storm on The Callis Truth played. Finally, a shot of the ROH Tag Team Titles flashed on the screen with the caption of "AJ STYLES. QUIET STORM. AMAZING RED. WHO will be the champions? DEATH BEFORE DISHONOR"

Rating: 68%

Chris Hero Vs. Jose Maximo

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Last week, Chris Hero defeated Joel Maximo with the Hero's Welcome, but before he could destroy Joel after the match, Jose hit the ring and made the save for his brother. This week, Hero tried for revenge, while Jose looked to end Hero's winning streak. Maximo started off with a flurry of high speed kicks and armdrags, sending Hero from the ring in a daze. Jose looked to hit a plancha on Hero from the ring, but Athena stood in front of her charge, preventing Jose from leaping. Hero slid back in the ring, and reversed a rana into a powerbomb before hitting a side suplex and a DDT for 2. Hero sent Jose to the ropes , but Maximo leapt off the middle cable. Hero ducked the flying SAT member, but when Jose rolled through and hit the opposite ropes, Hero floored him with a lariat. Hero then grinned, and with approval from Athena, hit the Hero's Welcome on Jose for the pin and another notch in the Win column.

Crowd- 51%

Match- 73%

Overall- 62%

Rating: *1/2

After another commerical break, the Flock music hit to a huge ovation. Though Raven didn't come through the curtain, Jeff Hardy and Alexis Laree made their way to the ring to a good ovation. Laree took the mic, and said that this weekend at Death Before Dishonor, Raven WOULD defeat Danny Maff and then go on to DESTROY Christopher Daniels. But TONIGHT, Jeff Hardy would prove that he had found his true self again, thanks to Raven, and that Johnny Kashmere was about to get "All Flocked Up."

Rating: 76%

Jeff Hardy Vs. Johnny Kashmere

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The crowd was hot for Hardy, which was completely unsurprising, considering recent trends. Hardy and Kashmere are both good high flyers, so a fairly good match followed. The Backseat Boy tried to ground the hyperactive Hardy, but Jeff kept breaking out of the submission holds to take to the air. Finally, Kashmere had no choice but to take to the air as well, and a good aerial showdown followed. Kashmere couldn't keep up with Jeff however, and Hardy hit a heel kick from the ring to the floor before rolling Kashmere back into the ring and hitting the Swanton Bomb for the victory.

Crowd- 63%

Match- 77%

Overall- 70%

Rating: **

Before we went to our final commercial, we were backstage with the leader of the Prophecy, Christopher Daniels. Daniels, flanked by Simply Luscious and Danny Maff, promised that Raven would never even get his match with Daniels. The Fallen Angel said that Raven was a disgrace, and just another mindless follower of the Code of Honor, and that at Death Before Dishonor, Danny Maff would ASSASSINATE Raven. Daniels laughed, saying NO ONE gets up from the Mafia Bomb, and that was simply the Gospel according to the Fallen Angel...

Rating: 87%

Tony Mamaluke Vs. Nick Dinsmore

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The crowd was more up for this match than I had expected, and Mamaluke and Dinsmore put on a good match for them. They traded holds and reversals on the mat, before Dinsmore got the upper hand with a Hammerlock. Dinsmore wrenched the arm of Mamaluke for a few minutes, before Mamaluke was able to rush the ropes and send Dinsmore sprawling to the outside. As Dinsmore got back into the ring, Mamaluke hit a dropkick and a bodypress, but when he went for the Sicilian Stretch, his arm wouldn't hold and Dinsmore returned to offense. Mamaluke tried to get out, but Dinsmore short-armed him into a waistlock, hitting the Backdrop Driver for the victory.

Crowd- 62%

Match- 81%

Overall- 71%

Rating: **1/2

Overall Rating: 72%, Rating 3.00, Attendance: 520

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Best Match: Hydro Def. Christian York

Worst Match: Chris Hero Def. Jose Maximo

Hottest Match: Jeff Hardy Def. Johnny Kashmere.

Well, the Flock match being the hottest was no surprise, but Kashmere dragged an acceptable match out of Hardy, and the Maximos seem to be contending for worst match crown. Up next is Death Before Dishonor, so stay tuned! Its coming...SOON!

August 22, 2003

Well, I dunno If anyone's still reading this, but we've had a month of High Impact TV episodes leading up to our first show of 2004, so hopefully we'll deliver a good show as a payoff. We've got a big World Title match, the furtherance of the Flock/Prophecy war and MORE. That's right! MORE! It's time for...

Ring of Honor Presents: Death Before Dishonor

=============================================

January 25th, 2004- Wakefield, MA

Six Man Scramble:

Christian York/Jimmy Rave/Frankie Kazarian Vs. Special K

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On the past 3 episodes of High Impact TV, Special K members Joey Matthews, Slim J and Hydro scored upset victories over Rave, Kazarian and York respectively- so now the faces are out for revenge. Logical Booking. Scary huh. Anyway, techinical wrestling, submission holds and catch-as-catch-can wrestling were out the window in this match, as all 6 men took to the air, wowing the crowd and cofusing the hell out of them at the same time. With all 3 Special K members outside on different sides of the ring, Rave, York and Kazarian hit simultaneous dives to the outside. Eventually, competitors started being taken down, and York was able to hit a top rope neckbreaker on Matthews for the pin and the revenge victory. Fun, if not technically GOOD match.

Crowd- 53%

Match- 74%

Overall- 63%

Rating: *1/2

Colt Cabana Vs. Nick Dinsmore

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Dinsmore and Cabana work well together (as a post-show e-mail informed me), and they were able to put on a really good match here. Cabana was accompanied to the ring by his trainer/Second City Saints teammate Ace Steel, while Dinsmore went it alone. A really lengthy and well done mat wrestling sequence started the match, but Colt emerged from the stalemate with an advantage, hooking Dinsmore's arms for a Colt 45. Dinsmore spun out, however, and tried for a Backdrop Driver, reversed into a rolling leg lock by Cabana. Colt sustained the advantage for most of the match, putting down Dinsmore's attempts at offense before looking for the Colt 45. Dinsmore reversed his momentum on the way up, swinging back down into a snap Northern Lights Suplex for 2. Cabana looked for a desperation Brainbuster, but Dinsmore slid down the back and snapped off a Backdrop Driver for the victory. Really good match.

Crowd- 58%

Match- 91%

Overall- 74%

Rating: ***1/4

The Briscoe Brothers Vs. The Spanish Announce Team

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The crowd was into this match between two of their favorite teams, and why not, as all 4 men put on a great show in this one. The Briscoes tried to ground the Maximo brothers, but the SAT took to the air, forcing Jay and Mark to head up top too, and resulting in an excellent aerial match. The SAT went for a Spanish Fly on Jay, but the older Briscoe Boy pushed the Maximos from the turnbuckle to the mat, and Mark hit the Cutthroat Suplex on Jose, but Joel broke up the count at 2. Jay went for the Jay Driller on Jose, but Joel hit a dropkick to his brother's chest to send the pair toppling over, with Maximo on top- getting another 2 count. After a series of near falls, Jay missed a diving headbut, and Joel hit the Maximo Explosion on him for the 3 count and the upset win. Surprisingly good match that did a lot to help get the SAT over.

Crowd- 59%

Match- 96%

Overall- 77%

Rating: ***3/4

The Amazing Red Vs. Tony Mamaluke

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Well, I wasn't about to pay Red to just ref a match, so he gets his own singles match here, against Tony Mamaluke. And while the previous match was better than I expected, Red and Mamaluke really didn't mesh as well as I had hoped. Typical flyer-technician match, but in this one Red took over, maintaining control for much of the match and frustrating Mamaluke. Eventually Mamaluke went back to his more daredevil ECW style, trying a somersault plancha to the outside, but hitting only the gaurdrail. Red easily regained control after that, hitting a Red Star Press for 2 before finishing Mamaluke with the Infared. Not a bad match by any stretch, but not what I was expecting.

Crowd- 66%

Match- 84%

Overall- 75%

Rating: **3/4

BJ Whitmer Vs. Christopher Daniels

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The crowd was booing Daniels out of the building the minute the Fallen Angel and Simply Luscious stepped through the curtain, and Whitmer is gaining a solid following after some great matches. The competitors fed off the crowd's energy and put on a really solid match, hitting some brutal shots and taking each other to the limit on the mat. Whitmer tried to stretch Daniels with a crossface, but the Fallen Angel escaped and put Whitmer on the top rope, hitting the Fall from Grace for 2. Daniels hit a Liger Bomb for another near fall, but when the Fallen Angel telegraphed a back drop BJ punted him in the face and hit a snap belly-to-belly for 2. Whitmer tried for the Death Valley Driver, but Daniels slid out, dropping right into a reverse front face-lock and spinning Whitmer down with the Last Rites for the pinfall victory. I continue to be impressed with Whitmer.

Crowd- 76%

Match- 85%

Overall- 80%

Rating: ***1/4

After the match, Daniels and Luscious went to leave, but Raven stood posed in the curtain. Daniels left through the crowd as the audience gave Whitmer a great ovation.

Battle to determine 1/2 off the ROH Tag Team Titles:

Special Guest Referee: The Amazing Red

AJ Styles Vs. Quiet Storm

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Styles and Red were the ROH tag team Champions until AJ went down with a tricep tear that left him unable to defend the belts for 2 consecutive ROH events. In his absence, Red chose friend and training partner Quiet Storm as his tag partner and the team of Red Storm were victorious over the Backseat Boyz and the Second City Saints in title defenses. Upon his return, Styles demanded his belt back, but Storm maintained that he had earned it. So we have this match to determine if Styles/Red or Storm/Red are the true Tag Champs. Hows THAT for backstory? Anyway, a solid if unspectacular contest that saw Storm and Styles trade moves an counter moves, before taking to the sky at the end with a barrage of high-flying moves. Near the end of the match, Styles went for a Tornado DDT - but Red was out of position ( as he is not used to reffing) and AJ kicked his partner in the face, sending Red sailing from the ring. AJ went to check on his partner, but Red shoved him backwards, into a roll-up from Storm...for 2! Styles popped up, screaming at Red, but that allowed Storm to a leaping reverse rana for another 2 count. Storm, frustrated at his inability to get the 3, walked into a Styles Clash, and Red glared at AJ as he counted 3. Not a Great match or anything, but this was more for stroyline advancement anyway, so huzzah.

Crowd- 54%

Match- 75%

Overall- 64%

Rating: *3/4

After the match, Red and Styles stared each other down while Storm recovered. As AJ and Quiet Storm shook hands, Red presented Styles with the belt. As the crowd buzzed, Red shook hands with both men, and the trio raised their hands and the belts to a great ovation.

#1 Contender's Trophy:

"American Dragon" Bryan Danielson Vs. CM Punk

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Danielson always delivers the great matches, and Punk has put on an impressive string of bouts, but this one was for a shot at the ROH title. The match started off on the mat, with both men trading holds, but Danielson obviously outclassed Punk in this field, coming out on top and frustrating Punk. Punk then tried to change the pace to a more stiff striking match, but once again, Danielson proved his dominance, sneding his opponent flailing from the ring in pain. Punk finally resorted to trying to out-fly Danielson, but when he missed a moonsault, Dragon locked on a full-nelson. As Danielson went up for the Dragon Suplex, however, Punk rolled through into a roll-up getting the upset 3 count. The crowd and Dragon looked on shocked, as Punk mockingly shook Danielson's hand and grabbed the trophy in celebtration. Dragon just glared at Punk as he raced to the back with his prize.

Crowd- 63%

Match- 87%

Overall- 75%

Rating: ***

Danny Maff Vs. Raven

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Holy crap. That streak of Raven being in the worst match of the show is snapped in a big way, as Raven and the Prophecy's Assassin put on an absolutely BRUTAL match. The crowd was electric for Raven and booed the hell out of Maff when he made his way to the ring. Raven knew that he had to defeat Maff for a shot at Christopher Daniels, and Maff was on a mission from the Prophecy to destroy Raven, so this match was an all-out brawl. After a brutally stiff brawl that left Raven bloody, Luscious took a swing at Raven, and Maff hit the Mafia Bomb on Raven. Raven kicked out at two however, eliciting a HUGE cheer from the crowd, and shock from the Prophecy. Maff growled and lifted Raven up for the Burning Hammer, but Raven spun down into the Raven Effect. THAT only got 2 as well, and now the crowd was stunned. An obviously weary Raven ducked a tight lariat from Maff and spun back into a second Raven Effect, drilling Maff and FINALLY getting the 3. Shockingly Great match.

Crowd- 76%

Match- 83%

Overall- 79%

Rating: ***

After the match, as Raven struggled to his feet, Lusicous slid into the ring and confronted him. Raven shoved her away and went to leave, but Christopher Daniels, Xavier and Donovan Morgan hit the ring and started to destroy him. Julio Dinero, Jeff Hardy and Alexis Laree hit the ring, but they were outnumbered by the Prophecy and Daniels stood over his opponent as the crowd booed.

ROH Title:

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Ki was a great matchup for the champ in this match, as the champion and the challenger traded brutally stiff shots and agonizing submissions through the course of the match. Joe had an early advantage, but Ki bridged out of a Triangle Choke and hit the Tidal Crush for 2. Low Ki got the crowd on their feet as he wore Joe down with a onslaught of kicks and chops, but Joe blocked the Ki Krusher and hit a snap suplex, floating back into a choke. Ki broke the hold by grabbing the ropes, but Joe immediately went for the Island Driver. Ki shoved him off and hit a rolling kick for a nearfall. Ki tried to lock the Dragon Clutch on Joe, but Joe clubbed him in the face to send him reeling. Joe looked for a Yakuza Kick, but Ki ducked, hitting the Ki Krusher 99 on Joe to get the pin and become the first ever 2 Time Ring of Honor Champion. Good, stiff title match.

Crowd- 67%

Match- 81%

Overall- 74%

Rating: **1/2

After the match and the handshake, a group of Ring of Honor competitors including American Dragon and Homicide hit the ring to congratulate Low Ki. As they celebrated, a frustrated Joe shoved Homicide violently out of the ring. Homicide tried to attack him in retaliation, but Dragon and Ki held him back, talking him down and finally leaving. As they parted the curtain, RF Video cameras caught Steve Corino on the otherside mockingly clapping.

Overall Rating- 74% Attendance: 3099

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Best Match: The Spanish Announce Team Def. The Briscoe Brothers

Worst Match: York/Rave/Kazarian Def. Special K

Hottest Match: (Tie) Raven Def. Danny Maff/Christopher Daniels Def. BJ Whitmer

Well, all around, the most solidly good show we've had in a long time. Ki/Joe, Daniels/Whitmer and Punk/Danielson were all good as expected, and Raven/Maff was a HUGE suprise. No shock that the hottest match was a tie between the Raven match and the Daniels match, as Flock/Prophecy feud is the hottest thing we have right now.

An internet update is coming soon, with matches announced for Ring of Honor's Second Anniversary show, plus a HUGE announcement about an exciting event that will occur over the next few months.

Anyone who is still reading, any feedback? Its a help.

August 22, 2003

glad that samoa joe dropped the belt, but maybe it should have been to a less established guy to get some respect for him?

Lightning Flik · August 22, 2003

Great stuff Royal. Sorry I haven't posted as frequent for your shows as I'd like. Some things are up in life that's been keeping me away from reading the diaries.

August 22, 2003

yeah great shows, keep it up

August 23, 2003

Thanks for the positive feedback, nice to know people are enjoying it. As for giving a younger star the belt, I debated it, but decided that I should build up the reputation of the belt a bit more before using the belt to help elevate others. And Joe was not elevating the belt, despite my best efforts.

January 30th, 2004- ROHWrestling.com

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Ring of Honor Top 5 Rankings for February, 2004:

©: Low Ki

#1: CM Punk (#1 Contender's Trophy Holder)

#2: Raven (Holds onto #2 spot after impressive win over Danny Maff)

#3: Samoa Joe (Lengthy and eventful title reign came to an end at DBD, but he remains in contention for the top spots in ROH)

#4: Christopher Daniels (Moves Back into Top 5 with win over BJ Whitmer)

#5: Homicide (Falls 2 spots after being inactive at DBD)

(Just Missed: Bryan Danielson, Paul London, AJ Styles)

* Ring of Honor is proud to announce the establishment of the ROH Jr. Heavyweight Championship. With the outstanding level of Junior Heavyweight competition in Ring of Honor, we feel that a championship is necessary to give the competitors the respect they deserve. Over the next few months, a Round Robin Tournament will take place to crown the first ROH Jr. Heavyweight Champ.

*Qualifying matches for the tournament will take place on High Impact TV over the next few months, and at the 2nd Anniversary show, and will include superstars from Japan, Mexico, Canada, The United Kingdom and The United States. Competitors signed for the tournament include: Ikuto Hidaka, TAKA Michinoku, Jinsei Shinzaki, Super Crazy, Juventud Guererra, Chance Beckett, Quiet Storm, Jody Fleisch, Jonny Storm, Spanky, Jimmy Rave, Christian York, Michael Shane, Tony Mamaluke, Chris Sabin and Julio Dinero.

* AJ Styles won back his half of the ROH Tag Team Championship at Death Before Dishonor, and now Amaxing Phenomenon will defend the belts as a team for the first time in 4 months at the ROH 2nd Anniversary show against Prophecy Members Donovan Morgan and Xavier.

* For five months, Christopher Daniels and Raven have done battle in a bloody and brutal feud. Now, for the first time, Raven and Daniels will step in the ring together one-on-one at the Anniversary show.

* Now that Low Ki has the ROH title around his waist, Steve Corino has demanded a shot at the #1 Contender's Trophy. At the 2nd Anniversary Show, Corino will face off with BJ Whitmer and Danny Maff with the trophy on the line.

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ROH 2nd Anniversary Show card as Announced so far:

Low Ki Vs. CM Punk- ROH Title

Raven Vs. Christopher Daniels

Amazing Phenomenon Vs. The Prophecy- ROH Tag Titles

Steve Corino Vs. BJ Whitmer Vs. Danny Maff- #1 Contender's Trophy

Samoa Joe Vs. Homicide

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Coming Soon: The last HITV episode of January, with the Flock in action, more of Chris Hero, and the first Qualifying Match for the ROH Jr. Hvywt Title Tourney! Stay TUNED!

Lightning Flik · August 23, 2003

Coolness. This shall be a great. A tourney~! < likes tourneys.

August 25, 2003

Crap. Well, looks like this diary is over. I had most of my workers on open contracts, since I was losing money every month ANYWAY, but after I finished bookin February's show, a new National Promotion (NWCW) opened and FLI went National as well. And both promotions proceeded to sign every talent that didn't have written contracts( mostly unused Special K guys to have house shows) or Japanese commitments.

My roster ended up consisting almost entirely of Chris Daniels, Low Ki, AJ Styles, Angeldust, Dixie, Izzy, Hydro, Deranged and Dunn and Marcos. Fun. Since all my booking plans were ruined I just said screw it.

Later tonight I'll post a NEW BETTER~! diary, that should be a lot more fun to write and hopefully a lot more fun for you guys to read.

For those interested though, the only feud I had planned out totally long term was Raven-Daniels. I had it completely booked for the next year. Here's how it would have gone.

(Feb): Raven-Daniels I: Raven wins by DQ when the Prophecy's interference is caught. Prophecy destroys Raven before Flock saves.

(March): Daniels complains that the Code of Honor screwed him out of a win over Raven, and demands a re-match. Raven says he had to go through hell for a match with Daniels, so Chris will have to do the same. Daniels/Julio is made and Daniels wins.

(April): This was gonna be a big gimmick show called "night of legends" where I would have matches like Red/Styles vs Midnight Express and Danielson Vs. Backlund etc. Anyway, Raven brings in Terry Funk and challenges Daniels to find a legend partner. Raven/Funk Def. Daniels/Zbysko in a tag match, but Raven pins Larry Legend...

(May): Daniels-Hardy: Daniels gauntlet continues as he easily beats Jeff. Chris says he's gone through the Flock, now he gets his revenge. Raven says not so fast..he has to go through the FLOCK's enforcer next month. Daniels is confused...

(June): Daniels-Perry Saturn: Saturn is the enforcer for the Flock, and Daniels has a heck of a time with him before small packaging him for a close pin. Raven/Daniels II is on.

(July): Raven-Daniels II: The Prophecy and the Flock brawl at ringside, and Raven ends up brawling to the back with Morgan- getting DQ'd. Now each man holds a DQ win over the other. Nothing is settled.

(August): A year into the fued, and a Flock Vs. Prophecy Survivor match is set for September. A series of 3 one-on-one matches is set and the group that wins the most gets to choose the stip for the big tag match next month. Morgan Def. Julio, Saturn Def. Maff and Xavier defeats Hardy by cheating liberally. The Prophecy's stip is that the losing stable must disband.

(Sept): Flock-Prophecy: The heels double team to eliminate Julio and Saturn early, leaving it 4 on 2. Jeff takes out Xavier to make it 3 on 2. Daniels pins Jeff to make it 3 on 1. Raven, bloody and beaten is able to eliminate Maff and Morgan, but is too worn down to put up much of a fight against a fairly fresh Daniels. Raven is pinned and the Flock disbands.

(Oct:) Daniels claims he has finally defeated Raven, and now there is no reason to continue fighting. He also claims to have liberated the Flock from Raven's Code of Honor brainwashing. Raven comes out and blames himself for the loss, and vows revenge next month on Daniels in a fight w/o honor. The pair brawls across the arena.

(Nov): Raven-Daniels III: The Fight w/o honor that's supposed to end the fued, but after a bloody match, the bout goes to a 30 minute time limit draw w/o a decision.

(Dec): At the Aptly named Final Battle 2004, a cage match is signed with the tag line: "NO Interference, NO Disqualifications, NO Time Limit, NO WAY OUT. This time there WILL be a winner" Raven-Daniels IV: After a long bloody match, Raven FINALLY gets his pin on Daniels to end the fued.

How do you guys like the booking?

Stay tuned- my new project is on the horizon...SOON

August 26, 2003

I have been reading this ROH Diary of yours for a while. And I have like the fueds and such you have done.

The Daniels/Raven fued you said you would have done seems good, and would've lasted along time.

Ring of Honor EWR Diary

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