A ROH diary.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Alright. I've been playing an ROH game for a while on EWR, and I figured I'd post it here since there are a couple of really good diaries going right now. Hopefully I'll have the time to keep updating this one, and hopefully people will actually enjoy this.

 

This doesn't use the current storylines (ie SCS/Prophecy) because I'd have to restart them to make the feuds work for the game. So we'll go with things like the introduction of the Pure Wrestling Title, but we'll have all new stories. This first post is just a set up.

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

 

 

Locker Room Scoops for the week of January 30th, 2004

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

* Ring of Honor has signed a deal with Chicago-based Superstation WGN to air the renewal of ROH High Impact TV. This gives Ring of Honor its first National Television Exposure, and is sure to make ROH an even bigger force on the wrestling scene. Tell your friends to tune in Friday Nights to see all the High Impact Action.

 

* The first round of the ROH Pure Wrestling tournament will be held on High Impact TV, with the semi-finals and finals to be held at ROH's 2nd Anniversary Show. Already signed for the tournament are Alex Shelley, Tom Carter, Doug Williams, Nigel McGuinness, Josh Daniels, Tony Mamaluke, Matt Stryker and a competitor TBA. Shelley and Carter will go head-to-head on the first High Impact TV episode next week!

 

*Also on upcoming episodes, Special K Vs. Ring Crew Express, The Rottweilers, Slyk Wagner Brown, Fast Eddie and more! Plus interviews with all your favorite ROH stars.

 

* Samoa Joe will be in Braintree to defend the ROH title against the Prophecy's assassin Dan Maff. This will be a brutal strong style match, and a rematch of August's emotional contest.

 

* Also announced for the Anniversary Show is a 4 corners match for the #1 contender's trophy featuring Amazing Red Vs. CM Punk Vs. Homicide Vs. Steve Corino. There are some volatile personalities involved in this one, and CM Punk will make his thoughts known on the first HI TV episode!

 

* Due to a leg injury suffered last weekend, Ace Steel will be out of action for the majority of 2004. CM Punk and Colt Cabana have vowed, however that this will not stop the Second City Saints in their quest to rule ROH.

 

* Raven will be in Braintree for the 2nd Anniversary show. His feud with Punk may be over, but Colt Cabana has petitioned ROH for a match with Raven- saying he has never got his revenge on Raven for his actions over the past year.

 

Upcoming Events:

 

First Anniversary Show- Braintree Mass.

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

Samoa Joe Vs. Dan Maff- ROH Title

Amazing Red Vs. CM Punk Vs. Homicide Vs. Steve Corino- #1 Contendership

Raven Vs. Colt Cabana

Semi finals and finals of the Pure Wrestling tournament.

Plus: Briscoe Brothers, Bryan Danielson, Special K, Jack Evans and more!!

 

Expect the Unexpected- Elizabeth, NJ

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

Raven Vs. Trent Acid

Briscoe Brothers Vs. Prophecy of BJ Whitmer & Dan Maff- Tag Team Title

Plus: Christopher Daniels, CM Punk, Steve Corino, Homicide, Special K, Johnny Kashmere, a Pure Wrestling Title defense and more!

 

Coming up Next: High Impact TV episode 1- Special K Vs. RCE, Shelley Vs. Carter, CM Punk & More!

[Lightning Flik 0]

Wee... Todd Royal makes his return to the fantasy forum! WELCOME BACK JACK~!

 

...I know your name isn't Jack. Just saying.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Good to be back, hopefully I stick around this time.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Ring of Honor Presents High Impact TV: Episode 1- February 6th, 2004

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

Special K (Cloudy & Hydro) Vs. Ring Crew Express (Dunn & Marcos)

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

The opening contest of the show saw Special K's Cloudy and Hydro (with Angel Dust, Dixie, Lit & Becky) take on Dunn & Marcos. The match started off quickly, with the RCE attempting to "Rock Special K Like a Hurricane", but Hydro got the advantage and worked over Marcos in the raver corner. As Cloudy and Hydro double teamed, the crowd rallied behind Marcos, allowing him to make the tag to Dunn. The Ringcrew looked to have the upset, but when they went for the Unskinny Bop on Cloudy, Becky interfered, allowing Hydro to roll up Marcos for the pin.

Match: 64%, Crowd: 29%, Overall: 46%

1/4*

 

Up next, we were joined in the ring by The Second City Saints of CM Punk and Colt Cabana. Punk took the mic, running down his opponents for the 2nd Anniversary Show. Calling Red a midget on speed, and Homicide a street thug that represents everything wrong with society, Punk said that in Braintree, he'd walk away with the #1 Contender's Trophy and that whether it was Samoa Joe or Dan Maff, he'd bring home the ROH Title, because he's drug free, Alcohol free, and better than you. Taking the mic, Cabana said that even though Ace Steel is now a cripple, the Saints would not be held down. He said they made a phone call back to Chicago, and that after ordering a good deep dish pizza, they made ANOTHER phone call to California, and proceeded to introduce the newest Second City Saint for the second match of the night...

72%

 

"Scrap Iron" Adam Pearce Vs. HC Loc

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

Pearce hit the ring with Second City Saints manager Tracy Brooks, to a chorus of boos from the crowd. The audience woke up however when The Carnage Crew hit the ring, with Devito staying at ringside. There was very little actual wrestling involved in this match, with Loc quickly resorting to brawling to get the advantage. Pearce brawled right back, however, taking control of the match and beating the former Extreme Official into the corner. A Desperation DDT got 2 for Loc, but Pearce hit a Superkick to put the match away. Following the bell, Devito hit the ring to help his partner, but the Saints jumped him as well, laying out both members of the Crew.

Match: 71% Crowd: 31% Overall: 51%

3/4*

 

After a commercial break, we came back to find the Ring of Honor Tag Team Champions, The Briscoe Brothers, in the ring with James E. Cornette. Cornette said that while the Briscoes would defend their belts against the Prophecy in Elizabeth, NJ- Jay and Mark were fighting champions, and would put the straps on the line in Braintree as well. Laying down the challenge to what he called "The best of the rest" in the tag team division, Cornette offered The Backseat Boyz and the Spanish Announce Team a shot at the belts in a Triple Threat match.

72%

 

ROH Pure Wrestling Tournament: Round 1

"Technician" Tom Carter Vs. "The Next" Alex Shelley

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

This was a great technical match, which took the crowd a while to get into. Shelley and Carter traded holds and reversals to open the match, with Shelley coming out on top A Boston Crab by Carter caused Shelley to use his first rope break, but Shelley countered with a Front Chancery lock to bring Carter down to 2 breaks. The momentum was firmly on Shelley's side from then on, as he hit the Shellshock, only to have it be broken up by a Carter ropebreak. Shelley quickly transitioned into the Border City Stretch, but Carter used his last break to escape. Knowing he was out of rope breaks and in trouble, Carter resorted to a low blow, rolling up Shelley with a handful of tights for 3. Shelley was obviously unhappy after the bout.

Match: 74% Crowd: 27% Overall: 50%

*

 

Just before the show went off the air, we went backstage for a lockerroom promo with Steve Corino. Flanked by Veronica Stevens and Guillotine LeGrande, Corino said that he was sick of being mistreated by Ring of Honor. No more Barbed Wire Matches, no more BS. He claimed that he was starting a Dynasty that would take over ROH, and that it would start at the Second Anniversary Show. He said he was the best wrestler in the world, and it was time for ROH fans to respect that. Claiming there would be more members to come, he warned ROH to watch out as the show went off the air.

69%

 

Overall: 61%

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

 

So, not a great show. The matches were really good for the most part, but the crowd reactions were horrible. That's what this show is mostly going to be, though. I'll be trying to get the lower card guys over, who can't fit on the Main Shows, and mix in promos from established guys to keep the ratings up and the ME guys happy. That means the TV shows might drag in building up to the monthly shows. Hopefully not too much though, as I'll try to do some HITV angles, and advance the main storylines in promos.

 

So. The Next episode of High Impact TV will be up soon, with Special K Vs. The Rottweilers, Slyk Wagner Brown, an appearance by Raven and Matt Stryker Vs. Nigel McGuinness in another First Round match.

[King Cucaracha 0]

Yay, some more competition. Cool to see you doing this again Todd. Shame about the crowd reactions, but a solid show otherwise...keep it up.

[Guest Real F'n Show]

Col to see you back, I enjoyed your last ROH Diary alot. Check out my thing in fantasy booking if you get the time (plug)

[Lightning Flik 0]

Hey Todd. Good show overall, I'm quite sad as well about the crowd reaction since you had a hell of show.

 

Keep it up.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

After a middle of the road High Impact TV episode, we return to the air a mere week later to do it all over again. We've got one entrant into the Pure Wrestling semi-finals, now we turn to Block B for a second entrant...

 

Ring of Honor Presents High Impact TV: Episdoe II- February 13th, 2004

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

Special K (Deranged & Izzy) Vs. The Rottweilers (Grim Reefer & Low Ryda)

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

We open up our second show the same way as the first, with Special K raving their way to the ring. Deranged and Izzy hit the ring this time, while Becky, Cloudy and Dixie stayed at ringside. Their opponents for this match were the Rottweilers of Grim Reefer and new addition and Doghouse Trainee Low Ryda. This was a fast-paced high-flying contest, with the K kids attempting to hold off Reefer and beat him 2-on-1. The Rottweilers fought back however, and hit a modified Hart Attack on Izzy for 3. Dixie and Cloudy hit the ring and attacked the winners, before J-Train hit the ring to help run them off.

Match: 67% Crowd: 25% Overall: 46%

1/2*

 

As Special K left the ring, holding their heads but laughing, J-Train grabbed the mic. In between *bbiiiaaattt*'s Smokes said that the Rottweilers were not gonna take anything from anyone, and that includes rich white kids livin on drugs bought with their parent's cash. Smokes said that Homicide was coming to Barintree with a mission, and he'd beat anyone put in his path- including Steve Corino again if necessary.

48%

 

Slyk Wagner Brown Vs. Josh Daniels

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

Slyk was accompanied to the ring by April Hunter, who sadly got more cheers than the match. Daniels started the match on the mat, taking Brown down and outwrestling him. As soon as he left an opening, however, Slyk leapt out and took to the air, hitting a springboard clothesline and taking control. Daniels briefly regained the momentum with a German Suplex nearfall, but when he sent Slyk into the corner, Brown sprung back off the ropes with a leg lariat, putting Daniels down long enough to hit a top rope somersault legdrop for the pin. Good match.

Match: 71% Crowd: 23% Overall: 47%

1/2*

 

Backstage, the Prophecy's Assassin, Dan Maff stood in a locker room, flanked by BJ Whitmer and Allison Danger. Maff said he may have failed once in his quest for the ROH Title, but he would NOT fail again. He said that he would not be stopped by Ring of Honor, Samoa Joe, or anyone else. And after Expect the Unexpected, he and BJ Whitmer would destroy the Briscoes and he would become the first ever ROH double champion.

69%

 

ROH Pure Wrestling Tournament: Round 1

Nigel McGuinness Vs. Matt Stryker

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

The crowd finally began to come alive for this match, as McGuinness and Stryker put on a mat wrestling clinic. The brit controlled the match early with a series of holds and reversals to keep Stryker grounded, but once Stryker was able to get to his feet, he hit Nigel with a suplex, and went to work on McGuinness' leg. Nigel used the ropes to break a half-crab, but Stryker kept on him, hitting a butterfly suplex and setting him up for the DVD. McGuinness slipped out of the move, however, and locked on a Fujiwara armbar to force Stryker to use a break. Nigel then went for a Northern Lights Suplex, but his leg gave way, and Stryker locked on the Stryker Lock in the middle of the ring. Nigel had rope breaks left, but couldn't reach the ropes, and was forced to tap.

Match: 85% Crowd: 39% Overall: 62%

**1/2

 

As the show closed, we saw a poorly lit backstage promo with Raven. Raven said that it was time to finally set out on the journey of Destiny he began a year ago. He said he had been distracted by CM Punk for much too long, and at the Second Anniversary Show he will finally end it by dealing with Punk's cronies. Soon the real Raven will have a chance to show himself, and Ring of Honor will never be the same again.

83%

 

Overall: 60%

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

 

Again, a fairly average show, with some horrible crowd reactions for the ROH undercard. Sigh. Hopefully these guys can get themselves over quickly. The bright spot was obviously the Stryker/McGuinness, which was a really good match. A good Raven promo was a bonus, so hopefully we're on an upward swing.

 

The next post will be another lockerroom scoops, with updates to the 2nd Anniversary show card, and some upcoming HITV matches. So stay tuned.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Locker Room Scoops for the week of February 14th, 2004

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

* Christopher Daniels has been added to Ring of Honor's second anniversary show. On a night where Prophecy member Dan Maff will compete for the ROH title, the leader of the Prophecy will take on old enemy Bryan Danielson in a rematch from Round Robin Challenge I. Daniels will also be on hand for Expect the Unexpected in March.

 

* The open challenge from James E. Cornette for the Backseat Boyz and the Spanish Announce Team has been accepted, and in Braintree, it will be Briscoes Vs. Backseats Vs. SAT for the ROH Tag Team Titles. The winners of this match will go on to Expect the Unexpected to face off with the Prophecy of BJ Whitmer and Dan Maff.

 

* Due to events on High Impact TV, the Carnage Crew is furious with the Second City Saints. Knowing this, Raven has offered to change his 2nd Anniversary Show match to a tag team match pitting the Saints' Colt Cabana and Adam Pearce against himself and CC member and ECW alum Justin Credible.

 

* The Rottweiler camp is apparently livid about the post-match attack by Special K on High Impact TV, saying it was a blatant violation of the code of honor. This week on HITV, the Rottweiler's Low Ryda will take on Angel Dust of Special K.

 

* Steve Corino has promised a huge development regarding his "Dynasty" at the Second Anniversary Show. More on this as it develops.

 

Upcoming Events:

 

Second Anniversary Show: Braintree, MA

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

Samoa Joe Vs. Dan Maff- ROH Title

Briscoes Vs. Backseat Boyz Vs. SAT- ROH Tag Team Titles

Bryan Danielson Vs. Christopher Daniels

Amazing Red Vs. CM Punk Vs. Homicide Vs. Steve Corino- #1 Contendership

Tom Carter Vs. ???- Pure Wrestling Semis

Matt Stryker Vs. ???- Pure Wrestling Semis

Pure Wrestling Tournament Finals

Raven/Justin Credible Vs. Second City Saints

 

Expect the Unexpected: Elizabeth, NJ

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

Raven Vs. Trent Acid

Prophecy of BJ Whitmer & Dan Maff Vs. Tag Team Champions

Plus Christopher Daniels, CM Punk, Steve Corino, Homicide, Special K, Johnny Kashmere, Samoa Joe & More.

[Lightning Flik 0]

Good show Todd. And I'm definitely liking how things are shaping up so far in your RoH.

[King Cucaracha 0]

As far as the overness goes...if there's anyone in your 'High Impact TV crew' that you don't need to be alligned the way they are (heel or face), turn them quickly. I did it with someone on my diaried game...they're on jobber position, and it near enough doubled their overness.

 

Also, if you can land a decent manager, allign them with some lower carders and get some interviews with them. Cornette is good for that, but he's with the Briscoes...Gertner or Fonzie would make good signings.

 

Other than that, good stuff partner.

[Guest Real F'n Show]

good stuff, but what the fuck is up with your crowd reaction, all these matches are kick ass but the crowd brings them down. Keep it up though

[Guest ToddRoyal]

The problem with the crowd reaction is all the low card guys, The Special K kids most notably, have overness in the teens. Which sucks.

 

Becky has enough charisma to cut OK interviews, but she's less over than most of the guys. Same deal with J-Train and the Rottweilers. Plus, I don't have many TV slots and I need at least one good match and two main event interviews to keep my overall ratings up and my ME guys happy. Sigh. Hopefully it starts progressing faster.

 

HITV #3 is coming tonight, with Low Ryda Vs. Angel Dust and Chris Sabin Vs. Fast Eddie as well as a third Pure Wrestling match.

[Lightning Flik 0]

Todd. I've got TWO guys whom you can sign that'll be of mighty help to you.

 

Adam Windsor and Orange Crush.

 

Now you can't pair up the two for great quality matches (different styles they have), however if you are using RaveX 22, they are probably the greatest 40 over workers out there. Also pick up Jason Cross and Air Paris if you can. Those two are definitely good workers in the ring.

 

For gimmicks:

 

Adam Windsor - Cool

Air Paris - Stoner (trust me on that one)

Jason Cross - Daredevil

Orange Crush - Bad Ass or Street Fighter (I'm using Bad Ass)

 

With these gimmicks you'll get these guys over very, very, very quickly. Trust me. It's working that way right now in my game. Adam Windsor is like HUGE in my game.

 

...just some ideas of course. You can run with it or not. Oh! And to make sure you are able to keep them around, first sign them to open contracts then sign them to written ones.

 

Also, what you want to do for EVERY match's purpose (unless feud or creatively doing something else) is either Put On A Good Match or Build Up To A Future Match. This will help get your lowercarders up on overness.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Ring of Honor Presents High Impact TV: Episode III- February 20th, 2004

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

Angel Dust Vs. Low Ryda

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

Angel Dust was accompanied to the ring by Becky, Cloudy and Hydro, while Low Ryda was seconded by J-Train and Grim Reefer. This was mostly a spotfest, so nothing spectacular as far as match quality goes, and the crowd continues not to care too much about Special K. A Headscissors late in the match took Low Ryda to the outside, and Angel Dust followed with a huge dive, taking out all of Special K when his opponent moved out of the ring. Tossing Angel Dust back in, Ryda hit a shooting star press to win. Before the Rottweilers could leave ringside, however, they were ambushed by Special K.

Match: 62% Crowd: 21% Overall: 41%

DUD

 

Backstage, J-Train was with his other client, Homicide, talking about the #1 contender's match at the 2nd Anniversary show. Homicide said he had fought his way off the streets, and into a position of power in Ring of Honor. CM Punk can bring his straightedge lackeys, Red can bring his Spanish Harlem midgets, and Corino can bring his "Dynasty", but in Braintree- Homicide would have the Rottweilers- his familiy- behind him. J-Train is getting progressively more over. Slowly.

49%

 

"The Future" Chris Sabin Vs. Fast Eddie

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

The crowd was slightly more alive for this match, rallying behind the legally blind Eddie. Starting on the mat, Sabin and Eddie soon took to the air, hitting big impact manuevers. A tornado DDT put Eddie down, but Sabin missed a flying elbow, and Eddie went to work. Hitting a springboard plancha from the apron, Eddie got the crowd on their feet and took Sabin up top for a Spider suplex. The crowd popped for that, but Eddie missed the follow-up moonsault. A series of high-impact moves followed, concluding when Sabin hit the Future Shock for 3. Really good match.

Match: 83% Crowd: 31% Overall: 57%

**

 

Backstage, we heard from our final competitor in the Four Corner's #1 Contender's match, The Amazing Red. Backed by the Spanish Announce Team, Red said he heard everyone elses speeches about destinies and dynasties, but at the 2nd Anniversary show- it would be his time to shine. He knows there's history between Corino and Homicide. He knows CM Punk has his sights set on Joe already- and that's just the way he likes it. He's used to being overlooked and being the underdog, but he'd leave Braintree with the #1 Contender's trophy. I wanted to have an interview with everyone, but remind me not to let Red talk anymore.

42%

 

Pure Wrestling Tournament: Round 1

Tony Mamaluke Vs. "The Anarchist" Doug Williams

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

The crowd heat continued to build for this match, which is a good sign, with the crowd applauding the return of The Human Torture Device. Unfortunately, the size difference slightly hampered the quality of the match. Good exchange of holds to start the match, with the bigger Williams coming out on top. The Anarchist continued to dominate Mamaluke, keeping him grounded, but Mamaluke escaped a waistlock and used his speed to wear Williams down with strikes. Mamaluke tried to hook the Sicilian Crab, but Williams powered out, hooking the waistlock again and rolling through for the Chaos Theory for the pin. Good pure wrestling match that didn't involve a single rope break.

Match: 71% Crowd: 45% Overall: 62%

*3/4

 

Backstage in the lockerroom, Samoa Joe was watching a tape of Dan Maff when Steve Corino walked into the room. Smiling broadly, Corino pulled out his backpack and pulled out a black "Dynasty" T-shirt. Corino tossed one at Joe, who just looked at the King of Old School skeptically. Corino urged the Champ to put on the shirt, but Joe shook his head, saying it was a nice gesture but he was done with groups and stables. Corino's grin disappeared as Joe said he wished Corino all the best of luck with his group, but he had other things to work on right now. Corino turned to leave, but Joe wished him luck in his 4-way, saying hopefully they could meet in NJ. Corino turned around scowling, and said "Bet on it" before slamming the door and leaving the T-shirt on the floor.

69%

 

Overall Rating: 56%

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

Yuck. Some good matches, but the overall show was down because of a lack of big name promos. Oh well. I wanted all the 4way competitors to get a promo in, even if it meant Red stuttering through a promo.

 

Next week the final match in the Pure Wrestling Tournament 1st round, with Josh Daniels and a mystery man. Plus Justin Credible gets his shot at the Second City Saints in Braintree, but Devito and Loc will take on Pearce and Cabana on High Impact TV. Tune in to see all the action!

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

Flik- as far as bringing in new guys, I was thinking of it, but I have a lot of young guys to work with right now. Jason Cross especially, so maybe we'll see him in the future.

[Lightning Flik 0]

No problem Todd. Just saying if you need some ahem... Over new guys, they are available for their services. That's all.

 

Heh! Here's hoping all goes well next show!

[Guest Real F'n Show]

nice show, and fuck your crowds, they're expecting too much lol

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Yeah. Stupid crowds. Screw them. But first, I need them seated for:

 

Ring of Honor Presents High Impact TV: Episode IV- February 27th, 2004

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

Instead of a match, this episode opened with Special K of Becky, Angel Dust, Izzy, Dixie and Cloudy in the ring raving. As the lights went off, and the music died down, Becky took the mic, issuing a challenge for anyone to show up at the Second Anniversary show to take on Special K in a scamble. Tonight, however, Dixie would take on anyone in a singles match. The crowd was actually more receptive to this than I thought. Go figure.

50%

 

Dixie Vs. Jimmy Rave

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

Jimmy Rave was out to accept the open challenge, and take on Dixie, but sadly the crowd had reverted back to apathy by this point and sat on their hands. Rave and Dixie put on a bit of a spotfest, but not an actively bad match, that had Rave grounding his opponent, only to keep losing advantage when Dixie went to the air. Special K tried to get involved late, but Rave took them out with a springboard press. Dixie got in very little offense after that and Rave won with the Satallite Crossface submission. Rave was then jumped by Angel Dust, Izzy & Cloudy.

Match: 62% Crowd: 24% Overall: 38%

DUD

 

(Yes, sadly it appears that in addition to my stupid crowd, I'm having "one of those nights" where no match is as good as it's supposed to be. Sigh. At least its happening here and not on my big show.)

 

The Second City Saints (Adam Pearce & Colt Cabana) Vs. The Carnage Crew (Devito & Loc)

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

In a preview to the Saints Vs. Raven/Credible match in a few days, the SCS took on Devito & Loc of the Carnage Crew. No technical wrestling in this one, as it was a pure slugfest. Pearce and Devito hit the outside early, brawling around the ring while Cabana and Loc fought between the ropes. Colt was able to get the advantage, and the Saints double teamed Loc before the former Extreme Official had the opportunity to tag Devito. Devito hit the ring and cleared house, and the crowd actually came alive for the comeback. Just as it looked like the Crew had the win, though, Tracy Brooks hit the ring, distracting Loc long enough for Cabana to hit the Colt 45 on him and get the pin. Justin Credible hit the ring to make the save. Shockingly acceptable match.

Match: 78% Crowd: 42% Overall: 54%

*3/4

 

Backstage, Gary Michael Capetta was with one of the teams challenging for the tag team titles at the Anniversary show- The Backseat Boyz. Cappetta asked the Backseats what they thought their chances were of walking out of Braintree with the Tag Team Titles. Acid just smiled and said about as good as his chances of getting laid tonight, grinning at GMC to force a laugh while Kashmere acted out a "Homerun" in the background for demonstration. Acid said that the Briscoes may have the services of Jim Cornette, but the Backseats were the closest thing to the Midnight Express ROH would ever see. The Boyz started to leave, but GMC stopped them to ask about the SAT. Acid just laughed and pointed to his waist as he and Kashmere strutted off.

52%

 

Pure Wrestling Tournament: Round 1

"Mr. Wrestling" Nick Dinsmore Vs. Josh Daniels

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

The final first round match in the Pure Wrestling tournament pitted young Jr. Heavyweight Josh Daniels against former WWE development talent and surprise entrant Nick Dinsmore. The portion of the crowd that reckognized Dinsmore applauded his entrance while the rest of the crowd did what they usually do- Nothing. Just before the match started, Veronica Stevens came out and stood at the entrance way with a clipboard, prseumably taking notes on Daniels, another Zero-One wrestler for the Dynasty. Good mat wrestling match to start, with Dinsmore quickly locking on a variety of submissions to force Daniels to use his rope breaks. Down to just one, Daniels changed his strategy, trying to use his speed to his advantage. The strategy paid off as Daniels took control, hitting a Tombstone piledriver and slowly climbing up for a Flying Headbut. The headbut missed however, and Dinsmore rolled into a Dragon Sleeper/STF combo for the submission. Ok match- bad crowd.

Match: 71% Crowd: 31% Overall: 45%

3/4*

 

Before the show ended, we caught up with Christopher Daniels in the locker room, standing with Allison Danger and BJ Whitmer kneeling beside him. Laughing, Daniels said he was looking forward to the Second Anniversary Show, and his match with Bryan Danielson, because it reminded him of the early days of ROH. Just like Round Robin Challenge where the Fallen Angel defeated Danielson, and just like the first year of ROH- dominated by the Prophecy. He proclaimed that Dan Maff would leave Boston with the ROH title, Maff and Whitmer would soon hold tag team gold, and at the Second Anniversary show, at least one ROH star would have a night he'd NEVER forget. Great promo from Daniels as expected.

88%

 

Overall Rating: 59%

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

 

So. Not a great show by any means, but better than I expected considering the crowd and the "one of those nights" bug. The Daniels interview at the end was obviously what saved this show, so I'm glad for that.

 

The next show is the 2nd Anniversary Show, so I'll have a preview of that up soon.

[Guest Real F'n Show]

good show, bad crowd. hopefully they'll get better as this progresses, but hey, it could have been worse. Can't wait for the second anniversary show

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Preview: Ring of Honor 2nd Anniversary Show- Feb. 28th, 2004- Braintree, MA

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

Special K Vs. ???

Special K has been getting on the nerves of a lot of the ROH roster lately, so when they offered up an open challenge for a scramble match in Braintree, people were lining up for a shot. Dixie, Deranged, Izzy, Joey and Slim J will be on hand to represent Special K, and a group of ROH's best high-fliers will take them on and take to the air in a fast and furious scramble match.

 

Pure Wrestling Tournament: Round 2

Tom Carter Vs. Doug Williams

The Pure Wrestling Tournament continues as Tom Carter, who beat Alex Shelley in Rd. 1, takes on the "Human Torture Device" who defeated Tony Mamaluke. Both of these men are coming to Braintree with something to prove, and neither man wants to go home without the belt. Carter represents the "American Indy" style, while Williams is a perfect example of British wrestling- but one thing is for sure- this match will be pure wrestling at its finest.

 

Matt Stryker Vs. Nick Dinsmore

Matt Stryker defeated Nigel McGuinness to earn his spot in round two, while Dinsmore was a surprise entrant to everyone, downing Josh Daniels to advance. Stryker has been a favorite all along to take the Pure Wrestling title, but will the unknown factor of Dinsmore propell him to the top?

 

Pure Wrestling Tournament Finals

Winner of Carter/Williams Vs. Winner of Stryker/Dinsmore

It all comes down to this. The man who wins this match will have defeated 3 of the very best technical wrestling in the world today, and will be crowned the first Pure Wrestling Champion in ROH. This will be a historic contest you won't want to miss.

 

The Second City Saints Vs. Raven & Justin Credible

Raven wants to move on with his life, and to do so he must eliminate CM Punk's followers Adam Pearce and Colt Cabana- The Second City Saints. The Saints continue to make enemies, however, getting on the bad side of the Carnage Crew, and forcing Justin Credible to add himself to this match. Will the Saints come out on top again, or will the ECW Alumni get the last laugh?

 

Christopher Daniels Vs. Bryan Danielson

Two of Ring of Honor's greatest competitors collide in a rematch of on of ROH's classic matches. The "American Dragon" has returned to ROH with a vengance, but Christopher Daniels has promised a huge night for the Prophecy in Braintree. Very few wrestlers deliver as consistently as these two men, so this is a match you do NOT want to miss.

 

ROH Tag Team Titles

The Briscoes Vs. The Backseat Boyz Vs. The SAT

The champions' manager James E. Cornette issued a challenge on High Impact TV to prove that the Jay and Mark are the best team in the world- and two of ROH's top tandems answered the call. On February 28th, the Backseat Boyz of Trent Acid and Johnny Kashmere and the SAT of Jose and Joel Maximo step into the ring, each team with their eyes on the title.

 

ROH #1 Contender's Trophy

Amazing Red Vs. CM Punk Vs. Homicide Vs. Steve Corino

Perhaps no match on the card is more volatile than this one. Each man has an agenda, and all 4 have their eyes set on the ROH title. Amazing Red is looking to prove that he is the ultimate underdog, while CM Punk has professed his dislike for each man in the bout. The issues between Homicide and Corino run deep, and throw in a tense encounter between "The King of Old School" and Samoa Joe on High Impact TV and you could end up with a war. One thing is for sure- only one man will leave with a shot at the ROH Title.

 

ROH Title

Samoa Joe Vs. Dan Maff

Christopher Daniels has announced his intent to gain control of Ring of Honor's championships once again, and this is his first step. The Prophecy's Assassin, Maff will come to Braintree however without thoughts of control- only thoughts of Gold. Standing across the ring, however will be Samoa Joe- the most dominating champion in wrestling today. A long line of challengers is forming for the ROH title, and Joe firmly intends to meet every one of them. This promises to be a brutal match, and one you won't want to miss.

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

 

The show will be up tomorrow most likely, so make sure to read the last show if you haven't and hopefully the 2nd Anniversary show will be a great one.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Ring of Honor Presents: Second Anniversary Show

February 28th, 2004- National Gaurd Armory- Braintree, Massachusetts

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

Commentators: Chris Lovey and James E. Cornette, w/ Steven DiAngelis

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

Referees: Paul Turner, Sean Hansen, Gary Morerre & Mike Kehner

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

Scramble Match:

Special K (Deranged, Dixie, Izzy, Joey & Slim J Vs. Fast Eddie, Jack Evans, Jimmy Rave & The Rottweilers (Grim Reefer & Low Ryda)

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

Special K came out to start the show, accompanied by Becky, Angel Dust & Cloudy, and reopened their challenge for any ROH competitors that thought they could out fly Special K. J-Train and the Rottweilers were the first through the curtain, with Rave, Evans and Eddie right behind. All 10 men took to the air early and often, repeatedly diving in and out of the ring. While everyone managed to put on a fairly good spot match, the crowd was only alive for the big spots, dying down a lot between them. Highlights of the match included Fast Eddie hitting a moonsault-slam on Dixie to Special K on the outside, Deranged launching himself over his teammates to take out Rave at ringside, and Jack Evans hitting Izzy with a corkscrew 450. The ending came when the Rottweilers took out Joey and Izzy with double top rope powerbombs and Evans hitting a 720 legdrop on Slim J for the pin.

Match: 71% Crowd: 29% Overall: 51%

*

 

Pure Wrestling Tournament Round 2:

"Technician" Tom Carter Vs. "The Anarchist" Doug Williams

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

The crowd finally started to wake up as we had our first second round match in the Pure Wrestling Tournament. Carter and Williams started on the mat, trading holds and reversals, with the bigger Williams coming out on top more times than not. It was Carter that forced the first rope break, however, when he caught Williams in a Fujiwara armbar. Fired up, Carter took the advantage, speeding the match up and taking Williams down with strikes and suplexes. Carter got carried away, however, using a closed fist and costing himself a rope break, much to his anger. A livid Carter tried to finish the match off with a Texas Cloverleaf, but Williams countered into a Stretch muffler to take away Carter's second break. An octopus hold took care of the third, and when Williams hit a Chaos Theory into the ropes, the count went unbroken and Williams advanced.

Match: 80% Crowd: 43% Overall: 61%

**

 

"Mr. Wrestling" Nick Dinsmore Vs. Matt Stryker

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

Unfortunately, these two didn't click like I had hoped, and the match was a little awkward. On the bright side, the crowd continued to come to life, popping for Stryker. Dinsmore took control early, however, shooting the legs and working over Stryker's knees. After some nearfalls, Dinsmore rolled into an Indian Deathlock to force a break from Stryker. Continuing his dominance, Dinsmore went right back to the legs, forcing a second break with a Figure 4. Before Dinsmore could finish him off, however, Stryker got his second wind, hitting a DVD for a 2 count and wearing Dinsmore down with suplexes. The crowd exploded when Matt hooked in the Styker Lock, but Dinsmore made the ropes to break. Stryker hooked the hold again, but again Dinsmore used the ropes. Stryker went for a third try, but his leg wouldn't hold up and Dinsmore rolled him up for 3.

Match: 69% Crowd: 55% Overall: 62%

*

 

The Second City Saints (Adam Pearce & Colt Cabana) Vs. Justin Credible & Raven

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

The crowd loved Raven and Credible here, and they gave the fans something to cheer for, taking it to Pearce and Cabana all match. The Saints tried to used Tracy Brooks as a distraction again, but Devito and Loc came out to take her away, leaving it 2-on-2. These four had a good brawl, that included Cabana hitting an Asai moonsault to the outside, and Raven and Credible busting Pearce open with a whip to the gaurd rails. As the match neared its end, Cabana hit a Colt 45 on Credible, but Raven saved, hitting a DDT on Colt. Pearce tried to save his partner, but was laid out by a DDT of his own, and Raven covered for 3. As Raven posed for the crowd, BJ Whitmer and Dan Maff hit the ring, taking out Credible and bloodying Raven with chairs before hitting an Exploder 98 and Burning Hammer to Raven on chairs and leaving to boos.

Match: 75% Crowd: 59% Overall: 67%

*3/4

 

ROH #1 Contender's Trophy

Steve Corino Vs. Homicide Vs. CM Punk Vs. Amazing Red

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

The crowd continued to be into the show, coming alive for Red and Homicide's entrances and booing Corino and Punk loudly. The match quickly broke down to two 1-on-1 battles, with Corino and Homicide focusing on each other while Red fought Punk. Red got the first big nearfall with a rana from the top, but Corino broke up the pin. A Red Star Press put Corino out, but Homicide saved, leading to a staredown between the faces, and a brief, stiff exchange between Red and Homicide. As Punk taunted both me, Corino rolled him up for 2, triggering a brawl between the two of them that went to the outside. Homicide hit Red with the Cop Killa just as Punk and Corino slid into the ring, and with Homicide distracted by Corino, Punk covered an unconcious Red for 3. Homicide flipped out, chasing Punk out of the ring as Corino looked on confused. This was a really good match between 4 great stars.

Match: 82% Crowd: 59% Overall: 70%

**1/4

 

ROH Tag Team Titles

Briscoe Brothers© Vs. Spanish Announce Team Vs. Backseat Boyz

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

The crowd died down a little bit for this match, maybe due to all the multi-man matched, but it didn't stop these three teams from putting on a great match for the tag titles. The Briscoes opened the match by focusing on Jose Maximo, wearing him down and keeping him away from his brother. This allowed the Backseats to double team Joel, hitting a Dream Sequence and a double superkick for nearfalls. The SAT made a brief comeback, diving onto both teams on the outside and getting a couple of 2 counts. But the champs and the Backseats regained control, each isolating a Maximo and doing a can-you-top-this segment on their opponent. As the BSB set up for a super T-Gimmick, however, Jay snuck in to cover Jose, getting the 3 and retaining the titles. As the Briscoes left with the titles, the Backseats fumed in the ring.

Match: 81% Crowd: 50% Overall: 65%

**1/4

 

Pure Wrestling Tournament Finals

"Mr. Wrestling" Nick Dinsmore Vs. "The Anarchist" Doug Williams

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

Dinsmore and Williams were both tired from earlier matches, so this match was a little slow, but both guys delivered, each going for submissions early and each man forcing the other to use a break within the first 5 minutes. At that time, Veronica Stevens emerged from the back, to the confusion of the crowd. Inside the ring, Dinsmore forced a second rope break with an STF, but minutes later Williams hit a Flying knee and locked on a Triangle choke to even up the breaks. As Dinsmore hit a huge Northern Lights suplex, Stevens ran toward the ring, putting Williams foot on the ropes to break the cover. The crowd booed, but Williams looked as confused as they did. As he questioned Stevens, Dinsmore took him down, locking on a Nagata Lock. Stevens smiled as her intentions became clear when Williams hooked the ropes, only to have the ref not call for the break. The crowd booed as the bell rang and Dinsmore accepted the Pure Wrestling title and a "Dynasty" T-shirt, walking out with Stevens.

Match: 74% Crowd: 51% Overall: 62%

*3/4

 

"The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels Vs. "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson

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

The crowd was on their feet before this one even began, knowing Daniels and Danielson would put on a match to remember. They certainly delivered, putting on a classic match. Starting off on the mat, Daniels immediately went to the neck, trying to beat Danielson the same was he had before. Dragon countered however, and unleashed a brutal barrage of strikes. As the match heated up, both men traded huge moves, including Danielson kicking out of a Triple Jump Moonsault and a Last Rites, and Daniels getting up from a Dragon Suplex. Daniels went for the Angel's Wings to finish, but Danielson countered, spinning Daniels out and taking him to the mat before floating over into the Cattle Mutilation for the submission victory. Amazing match, and a MOTY contender for sure.

Match: 96% Crowd: 67% Overall: 81%

****

 

ROH Title

Samoa Joe© Vs. Dan Maff

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

Tough to follow a classic like that match, but Maff and Joe put on a really good match that ended up being one of the best of the night. This was a brutal strong style match with neither man holding anything back as they brawled in and out of the ring. Maff hit a stiff powerbomb that got him a close two, but Joe powered out and continued to fight. Joe hit the Island Driver, but Maff refused to lose, shocking the crowd as he kicked out. Fighting on fumes, Maff hit the burning hammer, only to have Joe kick out at 2. As the crowd roared, the champ locked on the rear naked choke, grinding it in and forcing the Prophecy's Assassin to tap. The crowd applauded Joe as he limped to the back, ending a good show.

Match: 83% Crowd: 52% Overall: 67%

**1/2

 

Overall: 66%

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

 

Pretty good show in my opinion. Some matches just didn't click (Dinsmore/Stryker) and some just weren't over (the Scramble), but Dragon/Daniels delivered huge, and the world title, tag title and #1 contender's trophy matches were all good as well. Not a great show by any means, but some stories started here and its a good foundation to build on.

 

(Note: If anyone read my other ROH diary, you may notice that the Raven/Prophecy feud has been done before. Well, I never finished the last one and I started the feud in the game before I knew I was posting it here, so sorry if it gets repetitive)

 

Next up: Locker Room Scoops for March 1st, including matches signed for Expect the Unexpected, and the Top 5 for March, 2004.

[Lightning Flik 0]

Since I don't get to see RoH, I don't consider the Prophecy thing "used". Good show though! Still kinda down that the overness of certain wrestlers kills ya.

 

[King Cucaracha 0]

Jeezums Todd...the crowds you have really do suck. If 67's your highest rating, you may have some sort of problem with something. Either that, or the cult feds don't have as high ratings as the national ones I'm used to.

 

But still...something seems up with them.

[Guest Real F'n Show]

yeah I agree, I've been thinking maybe your settings are messed up or soemthing. Nice show though.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

I doubt my settings are messed up- it's actually just that litterally, none of my wrestlers are over.

 

Raven, Daniels, Corino and Danielson (only because of the great match on the last show) are the only four guys on my roster over 70 in overness. And only Joe, Credible and Red top 60 besides those guys. So its going to be an up hill battle to get the rest of the roster as over as those guys. Until then, expect bad crowd ratings. Sigh.

[Lightning Flik 0]

I doubt my settings are messed up- it's actually just that litterally, none of my wrestlers are over.

 

Raven, Daniels, Corino and Danielson (only because of the great match on the last show) are the only four guys on my roster over 70 in overness. And only Joe, Credible and Red top 60 besides those guys. So its going to be an up hill battle to get the rest of the roster as over as those guys. Until then, expect bad crowd ratings. Sigh.

ANGLES MY FRIEND~! ANGLES ARE YOUR FRIEND~!

 

Doesn't matter if your angles are crappy, as long as they come out better than the two people's charisma, the fans will make them get over.

 

How the hell do you think I got my two most unover wrestlers (Leo Branford and Marcus Chavayada) to where they get a decent pop when showing up?

 

...ok, so I booked them in a feud that was second only to my World Title situation. Details, details, details.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

I've got some feuds coming up that hopefully will help get some of my wrestlers over some more, so lets all hope that works.

 

ROH Locker Room Scoops for March 1st, 2004

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

* The situation surrounding the ROH Title is far from cut and dry. CM Punk currently holds the #1 Contender's trophy, but there is some controversy regarding how he won it. In a backstage confrontation that will air on High Impact TV, Homicide demanded a shot at the trophy in Elizabeth, NJ- saying Punk "stole" the match from him. The question is, what does this mean for Samoa Joe on March 15th?

 

* Raven was reportedly furious backstage in Braintree after being attacked by BJ Whitmer and Dan Maff. No one is quite sure why the Prophecy jumped Raven at the Anniversary show, and Christopher Daniels is not saying a word.

 

* When the Prophecy jumped Raven, they also took out his partner for the night, Justin Credible. This didn't sit well with the Carnage Crew, so this week on High Impact TV, Loc and Devito will take on Whitmer and Maff.

 

* Steve Corino was obviously frustrated at not being able to win the #1 Contender's trophy in Braintree, but was obviously excited about having Nick Dinsmore and the Pure Wrestling Title as a part of the Dynasty. In Elizabeth, NJ the "King of Old School" will continue his quest to be the "Best in the world" when he takes on Britain's Doug Williams.

 

* There is already a line forming to challenge Dinsmore for the Pure Wrestling Championship. At Expect the Unexpected, there will be a 4-way contender's match between John Walters, Alex Shelley, Tom Carter and Matt Stryker with the winner taking on Dinsmore when ROH makes its debut in Chicago in April.

 

* Bryan Danielson Vs. Xavier, and Christopher Daniels Vs. Amazing Red have been signed for the Chicago show, but the Fallen Angel has demanded that Ring of Honor not schedule either him or Danielson for a match at Expect the Unexpected. We hope to have more information on this soon.

 

* With Trent Acid scheduled to take on Raven in Elizabeth, Johnny Kashmere has informed ROH that he intends to make his Ring of Honor singles debut that night as well. Hopefully we will have information on his opponent by the next locker room scoops.

 

* Expect to see a series of "showcase" matches over the next few months on High Impact TV. These will be matches involving unsigned talent from across the country, with hopes that one or more competitors will impress enough to earn an ROH contract.

 

ROH Top 5 Rankings for March, 2004

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

© Samoa Joe-- Last defended against Dan Maff on 2/28 in Braintree, MA

1) CM Punk-- Holds #1 Contender's trophy after Second Anniversary Show

2) Homicide-- Will get a shot at the trophy on 3/15 in Elizabeth, NJ

3) Bryan Danielson-- Impressive win over Chris Daniels earns #3 spot.

4) Dan Maff-- Impressive in loss Vs. Samoa Joe, so remains in top 5.

5) Doug Williams-- Strong showing in Pure Wrestling tournament earns #5 spot.

 

Upcoming Events

Expect the Unexpected- March 15th, 2004- Elizabeth, NJ

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

CM Punk Vs. Homicide- #1 Contender's Trophy

Briscoes Vs. Prophecy of BJ Whitmer & Dan Maff- ROH Tag Team Titles

Raven Vs. Trent Acid

Steve Corino Vs. Doug Williams

John Walters Vs. Matt Stryker Vs. Alex Shelley Vs. Tom Carter

Also Appearing: Christopher Daniels, Samoa Joe, Bryan Danielson, Johnny Kashmere and more!

 

April 25th, 2004- Chicago, IL

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

Samoa Joe Vs. Winner of CM Punk/Homicide

Bryan Danielson Vs. Xavier

Christopher Daniels Vs. Amazing Red

 

May 30th, 2004- St. Louis, MO

[King Cucaracha 0]

I doubt my settings are messed up- it's actually just that litterally, none of my wrestlers are over.

Job Scott Hall and Syxx Pac out to everyone. Hell, even if it doesn't work, it'll damn sure be entertaining.

 

 

Anywho...I'm not too familiar with most of your lower level/mid level guys, but still Expect The Unexpected looks good on 'paper'.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Hoo boy. I started up March and ran into two big problems. The first being I forgot to change the large event to the last weekend of the month, so Expect the Unexpected will be on the 15th.

That's not a HUGE problem, since it just means less buildup time, except that I can't use Amazing Red or Justin Credible on the show, since they will be in Japan. Red was going to take on Kashmere, and Credible was scheduled to face Xavier in matches announced in the next LRS, but hopefully we'll get good replacements.

 

The other problem is slightly larger. NWA:TNA became global, and signed Raven to a written contract (which they had done to AJ Styles last month- I don't think I mentioned that, but yeah that's why he wasn't on any of the shows.) This obviously destroys the planned Prophecy/Raven feud. We've got a suitable replacement to face Trent Acid in NJ, and that will be anounced in the next Locker Room Scoops.

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

 

Ring of Honor Presents High Impact TV: Episode V- March 7th, 2004

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

"The Future" Chris Sabin & "Barbaric Berzerker" Jimmy Jacobs Vs. The Rottweilers (Grim Reefer & Low Ryda)

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

The show opened with the Rottweilers with J-Train taking on the Michigan based team of Chris Sabin and Jimmy Jacobs. The match started with a shouting contest between J-Train and Jacobs, with Jacobs HUSSing the Rottweilers out. Once the match began, however, the four men put on a good match, flying through the air and doubleteaming their opponents. Sabin got a couple of nearfalls on Reefer, but Low Ryda made the save, taking over against Jacobs. Jacobs missed the Berzerker Boot and got tied up in the ropes, leading to a rollup by Reefer for two. Sabin came in with a Future Shock on Reefer, and Jacobs hit the Contra Code on Low Ryda for the pin. Good match, but the crowd didn't get into it. What's new?

Match: 70% Crowd: 30% Overall: 50%

3/4*

 

After the match, the ROH Tag Team Champions came to the ring with Jim Cornette. Cornette said that Jay and Mark Briscoe were the best tag team in wrestling since the heyday of the Midnight Express, and that they would prove it by systematically defeating every team in Ring of Honor. Now that they had defeated the Backseat Boyz and the SAT, neither team would get a shot again until they had run through every team in ROH, including the Prophecy at Expect the Unexpected. Outside the ring, Sabin and Jacobs asked (and HUSSed) for a title shot, and Cornette assured them that thet would go down like everyone else.

74%

 

Following a commercial break we saw footage "From backstage in Braintree" of CM Punk coming into the Second City Saints lockerroom with the #1 contender's trophy. As Colt Cabana suggested he have it bronzed, the door burst open and Homicide flew in, backed by J-Train and the Rottweilers. An irate Homicide cursed out Punk, saying he stole the title shot that he worked so hard for. Punk just grinned and held up the trophy, but Homicide said he was too much of a pussy to put it up for grabs. Punk said he'd take on Homicide anytime anywhere, and the Rottweilers escorted Homicide out as Cabana mocked J-Train.

60%

 

Tony Mamaluke Vs. Jimmy Rave

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

The crowd was pretty dead for this match, but Mamaluke and Rave put on one heck of a match anyway. Mamaluke dominated early, keeping Rave grounded and stretching him with submission holds. Rave refused to give up, however, eventually escaping Mamaluke's grasp and taking to the air. A Springboard plancha and a rana got two counts for Rave, but Mamaluke caught him up top with a superplex, rolling through to a Front Chancery. Rave barely made the ropes to break, however, and a frustrated Mamaluke went for a German Suplex. Rave landed on his feet, shocking Mamaluke with a roll-up for a three count and the upset. Really good TV Juniors match.

Match: 88% Crowd: 39% Overall: 61%

**1/4

 

The Prophecy (BJ Whitmer & Dan Maff) Vs. The Carnage Crew (Devito & Loc)

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

The crowd was slightly more into this match, as they took to booing Maff, Whitmer and Allison Danger, and cheering for the "everyday heroes" in the Carnage Crew. This, like most Carnage Crew matches, turned into a pretty good brawl, with Devito battling with Maff on the outside while Whitmer pounded on Loc in the ring. Eventually Maff hit the ring to help double team Loc, hitting a top rope powerbomb for 2. Loc made the tag to Devito, and the Crew breifly took over, isolating Whitmer and hitting a double superplex for 2. They went for the Spike Piledriver, but Danger took out Devito's legs, allowing Maff to pull Loc off the top and hit the Burning Hammer for the pin.

Match: 77% Crowd: 41% Overall: 59%

*1/2

 

As the show went off the air, we saw a dimly lit backroom interview with Raven. Raven said his tenure in Ring of Honor was one of intense trials. He said that he could not defeat CM Punk, and that haunted him, but he pressed on. But Christopher Daniels and the Prophecy blindsided him before he could move on with his destiny. Right now, he was not mentally prepared to fight the Prophecy alone, and that ROH was not currently his destiny. He urged Trent Acid not to be too complacent though, because at Expect the Unexpected, he was sending an old friend from ECW to take care of business...

87%

 

Overall: 68%

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

 

This show turned out better than I thought it would, thanks to a good Raven promo (this show happened the day before the TNA thing) and a suprisingly good match between Mamaluke and Rave. There's only one more High Impact TV episode before Expect the Unexpected (whoops) so after that show we'll have another Locker Room scoops and then the big card.

 

Next High Impact TV features Jack Evans taking on Special K's Slim J, a Pure Wrestling match between Doug Williams and John Walters, and we'll be hearing from Steve Corino, the Second City Saints and Christopher Daniels.

[Guest ToddRoyal]

Ring of Honor Presents High Impact TV: Episode VI- March 14th, 2004

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

Slim J Vs. Jack Evans

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

Slim J was accompanied to the ring by Cloudy and Becky of Special K, but Evans went it alone for this match. The crowd was pretty dead for this match, as they tend to be for Special K matches, but that didn't stop Evans and Slim J from putting on one of the better spotfests in recent memory. Slim J dominated the match early, hitting his moves while Evans often came up short. Evans bailed from the ring to catch his breath, only to have his opponent spring over the ropes with a tope. Evans moved out of the way and sprang up the ropes, hitting a one and a half rotation moonsault to all 3 Special K members on the outside. Evans took over from there, eventually hitting a 630 legdrop for the pin. Cloudy and Slim J double teamed Evans after the bell. Really good opener.

Match: 88% Crowd: 21% Overall: 48%

**1/4

 

Following the first commercial break, we were joined in the ring by the Second City Saints of Adam Pearce, Colt Cabana and Lucy. Colt started by taking shots at Homicide, and saying Punk would destroy him at Expect the Unexpected, before moving on to addressing the Carnage Crew. Referring back to the 2nd Anniversary show, the Saints blasted Loc and Devito for taking Tracy Brooks from ringside. They said Tracy was "emotionally damaged" by being touched by the Crew and refused to come back to ROH. This was a tradgedy, according to Cabana, because she was "Freakin' hot." Pearce said Lucy was much stronger mentally, and that the Saints were far from done with Loc, Devito and Credible.

76%

 

"Classic" Colt Cabana Vs. "The Next" Alex Shelley

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

The crowd was slightly more into this match, as they were still booing Cabana from his pre-match interview. Shelley and Cabana put on a perfectly acceptable match, with the Pure Wrestler Shelley trying to wear his opponent down, but the larger Colt overpowering him to swing the advantage back in his favor. Shelley kicked out of a Tornado DDT by Cabana, but an attempt to hit the Shell Shock was reversed, and Cabana doubled Shelley over, hitting him with the Colt 45 and picking up the win. Pretty good match brought down by a bad crowd.

Match: 79% Crowd: 36% Overall: 51%

*1/2

 

Backstage, Gary Michael Cappetta was with the Dynasty of Steve Corino, Veronica Stevens, Guillotine LeGrande and Nick Dinsmore. Corino started by saying that Doug Williams may be the best technical wrestler in the world today, but in Braintree he proved he wasn't "championship material", and in Elizabeth Corino would prove he was nothing compared to the King of Old School. Turning his attention to Samoa Joe, Corino noted that Joe didn't have a challenger for Expect the Unexpected. "out of the kindness of his heart' Corino offered a special non-title Champion Vs. Champion challenge for Expect the Unexpected, saying Joe could face Dinsmore, and see first-hand the garaunteed victories he gave up by not joining the Dynasty.

86%

 

John Walters Vs. "The Anarchist" Doug Williams

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

As has been the trend lately, the crowd continued to improve as the show went along, but not by much. Williams and Walters put on a good pure wrestling match, however, even to the backdrop of a dead crowd. Neither man could get an advantage early in the match as both man tangled on the mat. As the match went along, it heated up with Walters hitting a superkick for a nearfall and Williams getting one of his own with a Northern Lights Suplex. At the end of the bout, Walters went for a Hurricane DDT, only to have Williams slip out and grab a waistlock, rolling him through for the Chaos Theory and the pin. Perfectly Acceptable wrestling. Dead Crowd.

Match: 78% Crowd: 39% Overall: 52%

*1/2

 

As the show was preparing to go off the air, we saw a lockeroom promo from Christopher Daniels, with Allison Danger. Daniels scowled as he talked about Bryan Danielson beating him at the Second Anniversary Show. Daniels said that American Dragon may have been the better man in Braintree, but Daniels has his own victory to talk about. On a night where he claimed the Prophecy would win the ROH Tag Titles, Daniels wanted to prove once and for all who the better man was. Since both men have proved they can win a one-fall match, in Elizabeth, the Fallen Angel wanted a 30 minute Iron Man match to prove who was REALLY the best.

86%

 

Overall: 69%

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

 

This ended up being the best overall rated episode of the 6, based on a surprisingly good opener and three strong interviews from our 3 major heel groups. So even with the continued bad crowds, I can't complain too much.

 

Next post will be Locker Room Scoops, filling out the card for Expect the Unexpected and setting up at least a couple of matches for the next few weeks of High Impact TV. Even though ETU is rushed, I feel like I have a couple of really strong matches lined up, so hopefully it goes well...