Kam
16-08-2003, 06:40 PM
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Talk Wrestling Online Newsletter - Issue 4 - Mar 3rd 2003
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Hey yo,
Back to full pace this week, as we ride down the Road to Wrestlemania XIX. Over the next few weeks we'll try and wet your appetite all that much more, but not without looking at the world outside WWE (as Matt Singhy would say, 'There is wrestling outside WWE you know') as well. We also debut Superstar Spotlight', looking at two international wrestling stars. And not forgetting a new columnist who will be slowly introducing you to the US Indy scene every few weeks or so.
And how can we forget the round-ups of all the wrestling news worldwide? It's all happening in the TWO Newsletter. So sit back with a cup of hot cocoa (or a bottle of whiskey... either way is fine) and enjoy.
- Mitchell Jones
TWO Newsletter Editor
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TWO Site News - By Mitchell Jones
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- Wrestlemania X9 Quiz and Chat
As is our monthly tradition here at Talk Wrestling Online, we will be holding our monthly PPV Quiz and Chat night. And this month is the Granddaddy of them all... Wrestlemania XIX. So in anticipation for the big event, with such matches as Kurt Angle vs Brock Lesnar and Triple H vs Booker T looming, why not head over to the TWO/SmashWrestling chatroom on Sunday, March 30th at 8pm to enter our highly popular quiz. Then from 9pm until 2am, why not stay along for a good ol' chat about the PPV with all the TWO regulars? The more, the merrier. Let's head into Wrestlemania XIX in style.
Wrestlemania XIX Quiz and Chat
Sunday, March 30th
Quiz: 8pm - 9pm
Chat: 9pm - 2am
Talk Wrestling Online - Chatroom of the Immortals
- TalkWrestlingOnline Writers Challenge
With all of the goings on in wrestling at the moment, a lot of people have a lot of things to say. So we at TWO decided to reward your opinions and posts by reintroducing the Writer's Challenge. Judged by a panel of five, every post made in the Wrestling forums will be evaluated and judged, and the top 10 contributors who we feel have made the best efforts to provide innovative and original posts, news and information, and simply top quality opinions put forward in a strong, eye catching way, will be rewarded with 2 video of their choice, thanks in large part to http://www.Simania.co.uk - one of the top tape traders in the country.
Anyone is welcome to have a go, and there may be a video in it for you. All you have to do is sign up to the forums at: http://www.talkwrestlingonline.com/forum and get posting. Good Luck.
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UK Scene News – By Pabster
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Hello and welcome to this week's edition of the TWO UKScene Newsletter Update. Let's start off with the results round up :
/ All Star - Woodville Halls, Gravesend - 26/02/03 \
- James Mason def. Rick Vain.
- Dave "The Rave" Swift def."The Anarchist" Doug Williams by disqualification.
- Nigel McGuinness def. Broady Steele.
- "The Wonderkid" Jonny Storm and Kid Cool fought to a double pin. It was declared as a draw.
- "Wildcat" Robbie Brookside def. Gangrel.
/ Premier Promotions - Assembly Halls, Worthing - 27/02/03 \
- Doug Williams def. Ricky Knight by 2 falls to 1.
- Flash Barker def. Ricky Knight.
- PWF Heavyweight Championship.
Flash Barker def. Doug Williams by 2 falls to 1 to become the new champion.
- PWF Middleweight Championship.
Mal Sanders def. Barry Cooper
- Karizma def. The Sweet Saraya.
/ All Star - Oakengates Theatre, Telford - 28/02/03 \
- "Hotshot" Johnny Devine def. Lucas Cool.
- Heavy Middleweight Title Eliminator
James Mason def. Migel McGuinness.
- Dave "The Rave" Swift def. Broady Steele.
- "WIldcat" Robbie Brookside def. Gangrel.
- Rick Vain def. "American Avalanche" PN Neuz.
/ CSF - Assembly Halls, Melksham, Wiltshire - 28/02/03 \
- Peter Collins, The Highlander & Karl “The Guvnor” Conroy def. Aaron Fusion, Tex Benedict & Dave Mercy.
- CSF Light Heavyweight championship match
Jake Jeckyl def. Alex Steel
- The Honky Tonk Man def. Jake Roberts.
- Five Star Flash def. Jason Fury & Andy Noble.
- Stu Odyssey & The Eliminator def. Team H8 for the CSF All Nations Tag Team Championships.
/ CSF - Leisure Centre, Yate - 01/03/03 \
- Aaron Fusion def. Karl “The Guvnor” Conroy to win a five man challenge contest.
- Alex Steel def. J J Moore.
- CSF Light Heavyweight Championship
Genocide def. Jake Jeckyl (c) by DQ.
- CSF All Nations Championship
Stu Odyssey (c) def. The Highlander.
- Dave Mercy def. Gideon by 2 falls to 1.
- Craig Steiner def. Five Star Flash.
- Jake "The Snake" Roberts def. The Honky Tonk Man.
Be sure to check out the next UKWA show at the Heringthorpe Leisure Centre in Rotherham on Saturday 8th March. They have been putting on some great shows lately.
It has generally been a quiet week on the UKSCene for out of ring news. Plenty of shows have been held which is good to see though. Check out Adam Sibley's weekly column for all the main news in the UKScene. Sorry for the lack of news.
Cheers,
Pabster.
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US Scene News - By Chris 2k
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Stone Cold Steve Austin sold out the Peoria Civic Center in Canada this week with an autograph signing for the Peoria Rivermen Hockey Club Game which was rescheduled from February 15th. A normal match hosts 4,000 fans, but this week they sold out with over 9,000 fans, some who had camped out the day before just to get an autograph of Austin.
Kevin Nash has now been 100% ruled out of a WrestleMania comeback, even though he feels he could come back now. He does however fear the risk of another injury, so he will make sure he is completely ready before returning. If the injuries sustained by his buddy HHH after the same kind of injury are the same, Nash may have to retire sooner rather than later.
WWE.com has revealed that Jerry 'The King' Lawler's infatuation with puppies has lead him to be a guest photographer at the next Playboy photoshoots. The full interview is up at WWE.com, but needless to say, he's looking forward to it....
Talking of Playboy, Torrie Wilson's appearance in Playboy is scheduled to be in stores in one month's time. A very revealing interview with the diva is up at WWE.com, which gives us an insight to what we'll see of the Golden
Thong award winner...
D'Lo Brown gave a very frank interview on No Holds Barred radio this week, with his release from the WWE the main topic of discussion. He took some criticism from the hosts, mainly about his old gimmicks such as Lo-Down, with a handful of salt, and informed us that he has been in contact with several indy feds. His contract has now officially expired, so he is free to work for anyone whom he chooses.
With the WWE quarterly financial check completed, and losses of over $25 million reported, the federation decided to close down 'The World', formerly known as WWF New York, in order to try and cut the losses. The World has been home to many PPV and TV events over the years, but I'm sure it's 'links' there during shows will not be missed....
This week at a Raw house show, both Randy Orton and Batista were injured.
Orton was attended to on the spot by EMTs, and did not carry on the match.
It was revealed that he had broken three of his toes, with his Big Toe being twisted 90 degrees out of place. Batista tore his bicep, an almost identical injury to the one that Kane sustained last year. This obviously weakens the 'Evolution' stable on Raw even further. It currently comprises three injured stars, HHH, Batista and Orton, and Ric Flair, who on the rare occasions that he wrestles, is way past his best. Even the nWo at their worst had more wrestling ability....
In more injury news, WWE Champion Kurt Angle is thought to have aggravated a constant neck injury whilst the SmackDown! brand was on tour in South Africa this week. At the moment, it is not thought to be as serious as Edge, Rhyno, Benoit, Austin etc. suffered, but even if it is half as bad, the Main Event at WrestleMania and all that leads up to it could be in serious trouble.
Finally, the WWE had been considering the idea of scrapping the King of the
Ring tournament. If you remember a few weeks ago, I mentioned that they are thinking of splitting the PPVs between Raw and Smackdown, and I did not include KOTR in the 4 that would remain with both brands. It is thought they will change it to a Raw PPV, with Vengeance being a SmackDown PPV. The tournament, once a real honour to win, has become much more secluded over recent years, with no established stars taking part in it. It has, however, been a very good launch pad for future stars such as Edge, Kurt Angle and Brock Lesnar, and the tournament is thought of very highly by fans.
/ XPW 'My Bloody Valentine' Results \
Super Crazy beat Chris Candido
Vic Grimes beat Raven
Supreme beat Justice Pain to retain the KOTDM Title
Sothern Comfort bear Mexaco's Most Wanted
Jonny Storm beat Salem (aka Devon Storm)
Youthanazia beat Angel & Shark Boy
Jerry Lynn beat Juvi Guerrera
Sean Waltman (I think) beat Kaos to win the XPW TV Title
Shane Douglas beat Justin Credible to retain the XPW title.
Supreme beat Ian Rotten in a Barbed Wire rope match for the KOTDM Title.
/ RAW House Show - Rochester NY \
The Hurricane beat Steven Richards
Rico beat Matt Cappotelli (TE3 Winner, Rochester native)
Spike Dudley beat Rico
Molly beat Jacqueline
Rob Van Dam beat Christian
Scott Steiner beat Lance Storm
Jeff Hardy beat Christopher Nowinski
D-Von Dudley beat Chief Morley
Chris Jericho beat Test and Stacy Keibler
Triple H beat Booker T to retain the World Title
/ SmackDown! House Show - Johannesburg, South Africa \
Team Angle beat Billy Kidman & Rey Mysterio Jr.
Matt Hardy beat Chavo Guerrero to retain the Cruiserweight Title
Mark Henry beat Hugh Morrus
Eddie Guerrero beat Jamie Noble
Rikishi & Chris Benoit beat John Cena and Kurt Angle in a Kiss my Ass match
Torrie Wilson beat Dawn Marie in a Bra and Panties match with Funaki as the
Special Referee
Brock Lesnar beat the Big Show and Paul Heyman
Heyman got some boos by insulting the SA cricket team!
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International News - By Matt Singh
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// Puroresu News \\
* All Japan Pro Wrestling: *
The third Wrestle-1 show that was cancelled last week has been rescheduled for either May or June
House show results;
A relatively quiet week for AJPW as far as house shows go, with the exception of the Triple Crown changing hands…
On 23/2 at the Nippon Budokan Hall with 15,800 paid attendance
1. Gran Hamada & Taichi Ishikari over Masa Fuchi & Spriggun(this gimmick is based on a Manga cartoon) at 11 minutes 53 seconds when Hamada hit a Hamada Cutter on Spriggun for the pinfall
2. Extreme Blade over Super Dragon at 8 minutes 9 seconds with the ‘Blade of the Dead’ finish for the pin
3. In an elimination match; Tomoaki Honma, Kazushi Miyamoto, Sanshiro Takagi & Tomohiko Hashimoto over Shigeo Okumura, Hideki Hosaka, Ryuji Hijikata & Yuto Aijima at 24 minutes 33 seconds with Honma & Miyamoto as the two survivors going over Okumura
(process of elimination)
- Hijikata over Hashimoto with a Fisherman's Buster for the pinfall
- Miyamoto over Aijima with a clutch hold for the tap-out
- Takagi over Hosaka via pinfall
- Miyamoto over Hijikata via a drop-kick highspot for the pinfall
- Miyamoto over Okumura with an elbow smash for the pin
4. The Gladiator over Nobukazu Hirai at 8 minutes 57 seconds with a flying body press for the pin
5. Kaz Hayashi, Yoji Anjoh & Genichiro Tenryu over Big John Tenta, Gigantes & Jimmy Yang at 15 minutes 12 seconds when Hayashi hit his ‘Final Cut’ finish on Yang for the pin
6. Satoshi Kojima, Arashi, Nobutaka Araya & Kendo Kashin over Shinjiro Ohtani, Masato Tanaka, Kazuhiko Ogasawara & Ryoji Sai at 20 minutes 6 seconds when Kojima landed a lariat on Sai for the pinfall
In continuation of the All Japan/Zero-one angle, after the match Kashin offered himself up to Zero-One’s 2/3 Ryogoku show in a 3-on-1 handicap match where he would take on three Zero-One workers
7. In a match for the AJPW Triple Crown: Shinya Hashimoto (Zero-One, challenger) over Great Muta (Champion, AJPW) at 20 minutes 9 seconds with an avalanche brainbuster for the pinfall
Hashimoto joins Genichiro Tenryu, Vader and Keiji Mutoh (as the Great Muta) as the only four men to have captured both NJPW’s IWGP Heavyweight title and AJPW’s Triple Crown
* Pro Wrestling NOAH: *
Whilst not outright saying it, Misawa eluded that the 1/3 match with Kobashi will be the last time the two will wrestle as singles, Misawa said that he will next team with Yoshinari Ogawa to challenge Jun Akiyama and Hiro Saito to win the GHC Tag Team titles sometime in the not-so-distant future.
House show results;
On 24/2 at Kanagawa City Gym with 1,600 paid attendance:
1. Mitsuo Momota & Rusher Kimura over Kishin Kawabata & Haruka Eigen at 10 minutes 16 seconds when Momota used an inside-cradle on Eigen for the pin
2. Daisuke Ikeda & Masao Inoue went to a 20-minute time-limit draw
3. Donovan Morgan & Michael Modest over Superstar Steve & Scorpio at 16 minutes 19 seconds when Modest hit his ‘Golden Gate Spin’ finish on Steve for the pinfall
4. Jun Izumida & Akira Taue over Makoto Hashi & Akitoshi Saito at 13 minutes 22 seconds when Izumida pinned Hashi
5. Naomichi Marufuji, Takeshi Rikio & Takeshi Morishima over Tsuyoshi Kikuchi, Naoki Sano & Yoshinari Ogawa at 15 minutes 59 seconds when Rikio landed a lariat on Kikuchi for the pin
6. Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Jun Akiyama over Yasuhiro Suzuki & Mitsuharu Misawa at 14 minutes 52 seconds when Kanemaru used an avalanche brainbuster on Suzuki for the pinfall
7. Takashi Sugiura, Bison Smith & Yoshihiro Takayama over KENTA, Tamon Honda & Kenta Kobashi at 20 minutes when Smith used his ‘Bisontennial’ finish on KENTA for the pin
On 26/2 at Mitsukaido Gym with 1,400 paid attendance:
1. Mitsuo Momota & Rusher Kimura over Jun Izumida & Haruka Eigen at 10 minutes 2 seconds when Momota used a school-boy on Eigen for the pin
2. Tamon Honda over Kishin Kawabata at 8 minutes 59 seconds with his ‘Dead End’ finish for the pinfall
3. Makoto Hashi & Yoshinobu Kanemaru over Yasuhiro Suzuki & Naomichi Marufuji at 14 minutes 46 seconds when Hashi hit his ‘Gori Thunder’ finish on Suzuki for the pin
4. Takeshi Rikio & Takeshi Morishima over KENTA & Kenta Kobashi at 16 minutes 11 seconds when Morishima used his ‘Amaze Impact’ finish on KENTA for the pinfall
5. Masao Inoue, Yoshinari Ogawa & Mitsuharu Misawa over Superstar Steve, Michael Modest & Bison Smith at 18 minutes 53 seconds when Ogawa used a back-drop suplex on Steve for the pinfall
6. Akitoshi Saito & Jun Akiyama over Donovan Morgan & Scorpio at 15 minutes 12 seconds when Saito used his ‘Death sickle’ on Morgan for the pin
7. Naoki Sano, Tsuyoshi Kikuchi & Akira Taue over Takashi Sugiura, Daisuke Ikeda & Yoshihiro Takayama at 21 minutes 30 seconds when Sano hit a Northern Lights Bomb on Sugiura for the pinfall
On 27/2 at Yaizu Gym, Shizuoka with 1,600 paid attendance:
1. Jun Izumida & Haruka Eigen over Mitsuo Momota & Rusher Kimura at 8 minutes 59 seconds when Izumida pinned Momota
2. Daisuke Ikeda over Tsuyoshi Kikuchi at 12 minutes 33 seconds with a death valley bomb for the pinfall
3. Akitoshi Saito over Superstar Steve at 10 minutes 48 seconds with Saito’s ‘Death Collector’ finish for the pin
4. Donovan Morgan, Michael Modest & Scorpio over Makoto Hashi, Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Jun Akiyama at 19 minutes 19 seconds when Modest used his ‘Reality Check’ finish on Hashi for the pin
5. Naoki Sano & Tamon Honda over Kishin Kawabata & Akira Taue at 14 minutes 37 seconds when Honda pinned Kawabata
6. Naomichi Marufuji, Takeshi Rikio & Takeshi Morishima over Takashi Sugiura, Bison Smith & Yoshihiro Takayama at 18 minutes 23 seconds when Rikio landed a powerbomb on Sugiura for the pin
7. KENTA, Masao Inoue & Kenta Kobashi over Yasuhiro Suzuki, Yoshinari Ogawa & Mitsuharu Misawa at 25 minutes 54 seconds when KENTA hit a knee-strike on Suzuki for the pinfall
On 1/3 at the Nippon Budokan Hall with 16,700 paid attendance:
1. Mitsuo Momota & Rusher Kimura over Haruka Eigen & Kishin Kawabata at 8 minutes 47 seconds when Momota used a backslide on Kawabata for the pin
2. Akira Taue, Michael Modest & Donovan Morgan over Naoki Sano, Tsuyoshi Kikuchi & Yasuhiro Suzuki at 15 minutes 46 seconds when Modest hit his ‘Reality Check’ finish on Suzuki for the pinfall
3. Naomichi Marufuji & KENTA over Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Makoto Hashi at 16 minutes 35 seconds when Marufuji pinned Hashi
4. Daisuke Ikeda, Takeshi Rikio & Takeshi Morishima over Bison Smith, Superstar Steve & IZU at 12 minutes 39 seconds when Ikeda used his ‘Mr. Big Bomber’ finish on Steve for the pin
5. Scorpio over Yoshinari Ogawa at 6 minutes 20 seconds with a 450-splash for the pinfall. Scorpio is now considered the promotion’s top foreigner
6. Yoshihiro Takayama over Masao Inoue at 7 minutes 2 seconds with a German Suplex Hold for the pinfall
7. Jun Akiyama & Akitoshi Saito over Tamon Honda & Takashi Sugiura at 7 minutes 31 seconds when Akiyama via referee stoppage on Honda
8. In the heavily-hyped GHC Heavyweight Title Match, Kenta Kobashi over Mitsuharu Misawa at 33 minutes 28 seconds when Kobashi hit the legendary Burning Hammer lariat.
Both let it all hang-out in this one, with both giving everything they could which is magnificent considering Kobashi’s knee and elbow injuries and Misawa’s constant state of being banged-up.
* Zero-One: *
Zero-One has announced their big 2/3 Ryogoku Kokugikan Sum Hall show card;
-- Yoshito Sasaki, Kazuhiko Ogasawara & Naohiro Hoshikawa versus Ryuji Hijikata, Kaz Hayashi & Kendo Kashin
-- Ryoji Sai versus Kamikaze
-- Kohei Sato & Masato Tanaka versus Takashi Sugiura & Daisuke Ikeda
-- Katsuhisa Fujii, Wataru Sakata & Yoshiaki Fujiwara versus King Adamo, Steve Corino & Matt Ghaffari
-- Hiro Yokoi & Yoshihiro Takayama versus Jimmy Snuka Jr. & The Predator
-- Naoya Ogawa versus Tom Howard
-- Shinjiro Ohtani & Shinya Hashimoto versus Arashi & Keiji Mutoh
House show results;
On 27/2 at Hamamatsu City Event Hall in Shizuoka with 1,600 paid attendance:
1. Acid (AKA Shaolin from UPW in the States) over Shinsuke Sumiya at 6 minutes 26 seconds with a body press for the pin
2. Yoshito Sasaki & Jun Kasai over Fuyuki Takahashi & Tadahiro Fujisaki at 7 minutes 56 seconds when Kasai used a small-package/inside cradle on Takahashi for the pinfall
3. Low Ki, Pentagon & Paul London over Tatsuhito Takaiwa, Wataru Sakata & Naohiro Hoshikawa at 16 minutes 33 seconds when Low Ki landed a splash on Sakata for the pin
4. Tom Howard & Matt Ghaffari over Steve Corino & Kamikaze at 7 minutes 15 seconds when Ghaffari hit a body press on Kamikaze for the pinfall
5. Masato Tanaka over Kohei Sato at 8 minutes 45 seconds with an elbow for the pin
6. Kazuhiko Ogasawara & Hiro Yokoi over Shinjiro Ohtani & Yusaku at 10 minutes 32 seconds via referee stoppage after Ogasawara beat Yusaku with mounted punches
7. Shinya Hashimoto & Yoshiaki Fujiwara over The Predator & King Adamo at 15 minutes 36 seconds when Hashimoto landed a DDT on Adamo for the pinfall. After the conclusion of the match, Arashi went to the ring and challenged Hashimoto to a Triple Crown title match
* Fighting World of Japan: *
FWJ have released their cards/line-ups for their first March swing (tour)::
15/3 Tokyo, Korakuen Hall
-- Takashi Uwano versus Nobutaka Araya
-- Tomohiro Ishii versus Yoji Anjoh
-- Masahiko Kochi & Yoshiaki Yatsu versus Kazushi Miyamoto & Tomoaki Honma
-- Todd & Mike Shane versus Road Warriors
-- Kenzo Suzuki versus Steve Madison
-- Kensuke Sasaki versus Big Vito
-- Shiro Koshinaka versus Takao Omori
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
16/3 Sendai, Miyagi Prefectural Sports Center
-- Takashi Uwano & Masahiko Kochi versus Kazushi Miyamoto & Tomoaki Honma
-- Yoshiaki Yatsu versus Steve Madison
-- Kenzo Suzuki versus Big Vito
-- Kensuke Sasaki versus Nobutaka Araya
-- Takao Omori versus Yoji Anjoh
-- No-Rope Street Fight Death Match: Ricky Fuji & Atsushi Onita versus Tomohiro Ishii & Shiro Koshinaka
-- IPW Hardcore Tag Titles Match: Todd & Mike Shane versus The Road Warriors
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
18/3 Gunma, Ota Citizen Gym
-- Masahiko Kochi versus Kazushi Miyamoto
-- Tomohiro Ishii versus Tomoaki Honma
-- Takashi Uwano versus Yoji Anjoh
-- Takao Omori versus Nobutaka Araya
-- No-Rope Barbed Wire Death Match: Yoshiaki Yatsu & Shiro Koshinaka versus Ricky Fuji & Atsushi Onita
-- Todd & Mike Shane versus Big Vito & Steve Madison
-- Kenzo Suzuki & Kensuke Sasaki versus The Road Warriors
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
19/3 Saitama, Soka City Health Sports Center
-- Tomohiro Ishii versus Kazushi Miyamoto
-- Takashi Uwano & Masahiko Kochi versus Ricky Fuji & Yoji Anjoh
-- Steve Madison versus Tomoaki Honma
-- Big Vito versus Nobutaka Araya
-- Shiro Koshinaka & Kensuke Sasaki versus Todd & Mike Shane
-- Yoshiaki Yatsu & Kenzo Suzuki versus The Road Warriors
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
20/3 at Nagareyama Citizen Gym
-- Takashi Uwano versus Kazushi Miyamoto
-- Yoshiaki Yatsu versus Tomoaki Honma
-- Big Vito versus Nobutaka Araya
-- Kenzo Suzuki versus Yoji Anjoh
-- Kensuke Sasaki versus Steve Madison
-- No-Rope Barbed Wire Death Match: Tomohiro Ishii & Shiro Koshinaka versus Ricky Fuji & Atsushi Onita
-- Todd & Mike Shane versus Road Warriors
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
FWJ on 1/3 at the Yokohama Arena with 13,200 with their debut show:
1. Tomohiro Ishii over Takashi Uwano at 12 minutes 37 seconds via referee stoppage after mounted punches
2. Tomoaki Honma over Masahiko Kochi at 9 minutes 12 seconds with a crab hold for the tap-out
3. Yoshiaki Yatsu over Yoji Anjoh in 11 minutes 24 seconds by tap-out
4. In an IPW Hardcore Tag Titles match, Animal & Hawk Warrior over Todd & Mike Shane at 11 minutes 4 seconds after Animal pinned Mike resulting from the double impact finish. Before the match Tiger Hattori, Masa Saito and others did a 10-bell tribute salute in memory of Curt Hennig (said to be a classy display of unity by all concerned)
5. In the No-Rope Barbed Wire Death Match, Shiro Koshinaka over Atsushi Onita at 8 minutes 5 seconds via disqualification after Onita tried to use a fireball and the green-mist gimmick after Koshinaka brought a chair into the ring, this match was said to be a stinker (it did have Onita in it after all)
6. Takao Omori over Kenzo Suzuki at 12 minutes 53 seconds with an axe bomber for the pinfall (looks like Omori has found a new home after his NOAH departure)
7. Kensuke Sasaki & Hiroshi Hase over Don Frye (former UFC Champion) & Dan Bobish at 12 minutes 59 seconds when Sasaki hit a lariat on Bobish for the pinfall
8. Riki Choshu over Genichiro Tenryu at 7 minutes 53 seconds with a lariat for the pin
Overall a successful debut for Riki Choshu’s FWJ, the promotions debut got a lot of press and media coverage in Japan, which is a good sign for the group as the press play a hugely important part in the making and breaking of an up-start promotion
// Lucha Libre News \\
* EMLL: *
House show results;
On 23/2 with no crown announced in Monterrey:
La Justiciera & Princesa Yara over Gatubela & Serpiente Salvaje
Cats & Crazzy Rock over Bengali & Halcon Maltes
Los Caifanes Rockeros I & II & Jungla Negra Jr. over Ricky Marvin (who will be receiving an NWA/TNA try-out sometime within the next month), Alan & Chris Stone
Ultimo Guerrero & Rey Bucanero ( both receiving NWA/TNA try-outs within the next month) over Damian & Misterioso
Brazo de Plata, La Parka & Shocker over Dr. Wagner Jr., Nicho & Sergio Romo Jr
* AAA: *
House show results;
On 23/2 with no crowd announced:
Black Soul, Chamaco Ortiz & Titanic over Cocoliso, Darkside & Falcon Kid
Armageddon over Chamaco Rivera
Lady Apache & Poly Star over La Chacala & Tiffany
El Brazo, Chucky, Monsther & Potro Jr. over Alebrije, Cuije, Mascara Sagrada & Tigre Universitario
Hator & Monje Negro Jr. over Diluvio Negro II & Mongol Chino Sr.
Jerry Estrada, Head Hunter I & Jason the Terrible over Diluvio Negro I, Hombre sin Nombre & La Parka Jr.
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Superstar Spotlight - By Craig Russell
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.:Jerry Lynn:.
Trademark Moves- Cradle Piledriver, Cradle Tombstone Piledriver, Tornado DDT.
Titles Held-
WWF Light Heavyweight Title (1)
ECW World Heavyweight Title (1)
NWA-TNA X Division Title (2)
NWA World Tag Team Titles (1) (with A.J. Styles)
GWF Light Heavyweight Title (1)
PWA Heavyweight Title (1)
PWA Light Heavyweight Title (3)
PWA Tag Team Titles (1) (with Lightning Kid)
For over a decade now, Jerry Lynn has been one of the most underused talents in the US wrestling scene. Born June 12, 1963, Lynn made his pro wrestling debut at the age of 25. Just two years later, in 1990, he became the PWA Light Heavyweight champion. Later that year, he captured the PWA Heavyweight title. Quickly becoming one of the hottest commodities on the indy scene, Lynn started his memorable feud with Sean “X Pac” Waltman in 1991. The pair battled each other on shows all over the country, as Waltman set out to humiliate Lynn. On one occasion, Waltman tried to sell locks of Lynn’s hair!
Soon after that, both men decided to team up. The high flying combination of Waltman and Lynn was a massive success, as the team won gold in many promotions, both in the US and Japan. Despite his success in the Far East, Lynn craved recognition in his home country, and attempted to break into the WWF. After failing to find employment with the McMahons, Lynn agreed to work with WCW. He was repackaged as “Mr JL”, a masked cruiserweight. Unfortunately, Lynn’s career failed to take off down south, only managing one PPV appearance against Sabu at Halloween Havoc 95. Eric Bischoff, failing to see the natural talent behind the foolish gimmick, released Lynn. Jerry was not to be put off his dream of stardom though, as he went back to his indy roots, putting on memorable matches for numerous promotions. In 1997, Jerry Lynn had another WWF try out, and again, he was unsuccessful. However, luck would be on his side later in the year, as Lynn was offered a spot in Extreme Championship Wrestling, perhaps the biggest promotion in the US, outside of the Big Two.
During his time in ECW, Jerry Lynn started a red-hot rivalry with the popular Rob Van Dam. RVD claimed he was the “Whole F’n Show”, but after witnesses classic bouts with Little Guido, Yoshihiro Tajiri, Steve Corino and Lance Storm, the ECW faithful dubbed Jerry Lynn the “New F’n Show”. Despite the new moniker, Lynn had never defeated RVD in singles competition. Finally, at ECW Hardcore Heaven 2000, Jerry Lynn pinned Rob Van Dam, with the help of the turncoat Scotty Anton. With his jinx finally beaten, Lynn started his quest for the ECW heavyweight title. At Anarchy Rulz 2000, Lynn managed to overcome nemesis Justin Credible, and win the “big one”. Many claimed that Lynn was not ready for the title, and that owner Paul Heyman had rushed Lynn and Steve Corino to the top of the card, when they should have been pushed gradually.
As the structure of ECW fell down around him, not long after dropping his world title, Lynn managed to get a contract with WWF. He made a fantastic start to his career in the big time, beating Crash Holly in his debut to win the Light Heavyweight title. However, trouble came in early summer 2001, when Lynn suffered a torn patella. This caused him to miss quite a bit of action. On his return, he was excluded from the ECW invasion angle, due to bad blood with new WWF writer, and former boss of Lynn, Paul Heyman. Déjŕ vu struck, as in a similar way to his departure from WCW, Lynn was released in late 2001 because creative had nothing for him to do.
After appearing on a WWA PPV, Lynn was once again the most exciting wrestler accepting indy bookings. Now in NWA TNA, Jerry Lynn is one of the top talents. This time around, management have realised his skills, and have rewarded the “New F’n Show” with gold, in the shape of the World Tag Team Titles, and the X Division title (twice). After putting on several classic matches with AJ Styles last year, NWA TNA fans can look forward to seeing more of Jerry Lynn in 2003.
Recommended Jerry Lynn Matches-
Jerry Lynn Vs Rob Van Dam- ECW Living Dangerously 99
Jerry Lynn Vs AJ Styles Vs Low Ki- NWA TNA 8
Jerry Lynn Vs Sean Waltman- PWA, 1991
Great Sasuke Vs Sultan Gargola (Jerry Lynn)- M-Pro Fukumen Masked Man Tournement 1995
.:Yuji Nagata:.
Trademark Moves- Nagata Locks I (Reverse Figure Four Leglock), II (Crippler Crossface) and III (Regal Strech/Rings Of Saturn Combo)
Titles Held-
IWGP Tag Team Titles (1, w/ Manabu Nakanishi)
IWGP Heavyweight Title (1)
Tournaments Won-
G1 Climax 2001
G1 Tag League 2000 (w/ Takashi Iizuka)
WCW Tag Team Titles Contender Tournament 1998 (w/ Kensuke Sasaki)
Naeba Tag Tournament 2001 (w/ Jushin Liger)
Perhaps one of the most skilful and talented technical wrestlers in the world, current IWGP champion Yuji Nagata is known just as well for his trademark salute, as his exciting matches. You may have seen Nagata wrestle before in NJPW, NOAH, ZERO-ONE or even in the States, with WCW. Aged 35, the former NK Gun and Fighting Club G-EGGS member made a name for himself at the 2001 G1 Climax, where he successfully defeated Minoru Tanaka, Tadao Yasuda, Tatsumi Fujinami, Masahiro Chono and the great Keiji Mutoh. Nagata even holds wins over Mitsuharu Misawa and Kenta Kobashi, as he teamed up with Jun Akiyama on NOAH's 17th February 2002 to take on both men in a tag team match, coming up trumps. Three months later, Nagata won the IWGP World Heavyweight title from Yasuda, cementing his status as one of the top wrestlers in New Japan. With 8 successful IWGP title defences to his name, Nagata only needs to pick up one more win to equal Hashimoto's record of 9 successful title defences.
Recommended Yuji Nagata Matches-
Yuji Nagata and Jun Akiyama Vs Mitsuhara Misawa and Kenta Kobashi- NOAH, 17/02/02
Yuji Nagata Vs Keiji Mutoh- NJPW, 12/08/02
Yuji Nagata and Manabu Nakanishi Vs Hiroyoshi Tenzan and Satoshi Kojima- NJPW G1 Tag League Finals 2001
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Indy 101 - By Trinity
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Wrestling has been in my blood for years. Growing up in the “Golden Age” of World Wrestling Federation during the 80’s and the rise of WCW during the late 80s, early 90’s breeds a love for a sport for that reeks of masculinity.
But to quote No Doubt-“I’m just a girl in the world”
Surprise Surprise… the idea of a female wrestling fan conjures the ideas of the female soap opera nut that lives for all the backstage drama, the skits, and not for the action in the ring. I’ve never been like that nor would I ever want to be like that. As I watched ECW’s hardcore dreams crumbled under bankruptcy and the WWE rise to its monopolized state, the ideas of wrestling disappeared. Drama bravado, characters reigned, and put me off more than anything else. I had to search to find something else, other feds to watch that gave me what I wanted. And I found it.
Independent Federations in the United States were my savior. Not as suave and polished as the WWE, but they cater to their populations, to almost cult-like followings. You miss the ECW of old, XPW caters to that fan base, the mixture of the hardcore and wrestlers that were once old employees of the previous company. Blood, brawls and broads? Pro Pain Pro Wrestling, also known as 3PW stacked their cards to live by the credo. CZW and IWA Mid-South live by their violence and reckless abandon. Finally for those that believe in the Code of Honor and Technical wrestling expertise, Ring of Honor is what your heart desires.
Even as the feds have their own cult followings, Indy wrestlers have their own followings of their own. Guys like Chris Hero, CM Punk, Shane Douglas, Raven, “Sick” Nick Mondo, Low-Ki, The Amazing Red, SAT’s, Homicide, The Backseat Boys, and Messiah to name a few. Different Styles different characters, varied in every way possible. These men entertain, put their lives on the line, and push the limit. It gives me something more. Some, the skilled at ring psychology, some may be the most charismatic, and others put their bodies on the line.
Hopefully over the next few months in my columns, I can show you more than the weedwhackers and blown spots that most bring to the forefront. The WWE shelters even the most “discerning” fan, but I learned from one of my present day classes:
“You don’t miss what you don’t know.”
Maybe its time to see what you’re missing. Hopefully I get to be the one that gives a glimpse to it for everyone. This is just an introduction. For those who want to assume that my sex is an deterrent, be warned, just because I have only X chromosomes doesn’t mean I can’t show a couple of you up. But of course everyone’s feedback is completely welcomed. This is a new thing for me. Any opinions, good or bad, critiques, or vicious assaults should be sent to me at Trinity@talkwrestlingonline.com
Till the next time
-Trinity
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Contributers
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TWO Site News - Mitchell Jones (Mitchell@talkwrestlingonline.com)
UK Scene News – Pabster (Pabster@talkwrestlingonline.com)
US Scene News - Chris2k (Chris2k@talkwrestlingonline.com)
Puroresu News - Matthew Singh (Singhy@talkwrestlingonline.com)
Superstar Spotlight - Craig Russell (Russ@talkwrestlingonline.com)
Indy 101 - Trinity (Trinity@talkwrestlingonline.com)
============================================
That's it for this week. Any feedback would be gladly appreciated. Send it, along with any questions or queries, to Mitchell@talkwrestlingonline.com or to any of our contributors. We want your input to help make the newsletter the best we can.
With that in mind, have a good week.
The TWO Newsletter - "The World of Wrestling, straight to your Inbox!!!"
Talk Wrestling Online Newsletter - Issue 4 - Mar 3rd 2003
================================================
Hey yo,
Back to full pace this week, as we ride down the Road to Wrestlemania XIX. Over the next few weeks we'll try and wet your appetite all that much more, but not without looking at the world outside WWE (as Matt Singhy would say, 'There is wrestling outside WWE you know') as well. We also debut Superstar Spotlight', looking at two international wrestling stars. And not forgetting a new columnist who will be slowly introducing you to the US Indy scene every few weeks or so.
And how can we forget the round-ups of all the wrestling news worldwide? It's all happening in the TWO Newsletter. So sit back with a cup of hot cocoa (or a bottle of whiskey... either way is fine) and enjoy.
- Mitchell Jones
TWO Newsletter Editor
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TWO Site News - By Mitchell Jones
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- Wrestlemania X9 Quiz and Chat
As is our monthly tradition here at Talk Wrestling Online, we will be holding our monthly PPV Quiz and Chat night. And this month is the Granddaddy of them all... Wrestlemania XIX. So in anticipation for the big event, with such matches as Kurt Angle vs Brock Lesnar and Triple H vs Booker T looming, why not head over to the TWO/SmashWrestling chatroom on Sunday, March 30th at 8pm to enter our highly popular quiz. Then from 9pm until 2am, why not stay along for a good ol' chat about the PPV with all the TWO regulars? The more, the merrier. Let's head into Wrestlemania XIX in style.
Wrestlemania XIX Quiz and Chat
Sunday, March 30th
Quiz: 8pm - 9pm
Chat: 9pm - 2am
Talk Wrestling Online - Chatroom of the Immortals
- TalkWrestlingOnline Writers Challenge
With all of the goings on in wrestling at the moment, a lot of people have a lot of things to say. So we at TWO decided to reward your opinions and posts by reintroducing the Writer's Challenge. Judged by a panel of five, every post made in the Wrestling forums will be evaluated and judged, and the top 10 contributors who we feel have made the best efforts to provide innovative and original posts, news and information, and simply top quality opinions put forward in a strong, eye catching way, will be rewarded with 2 video of their choice, thanks in large part to http://www.Simania.co.uk - one of the top tape traders in the country.
Anyone is welcome to have a go, and there may be a video in it for you. All you have to do is sign up to the forums at: http://www.talkwrestlingonline.com/forum and get posting. Good Luck.
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UK Scene News – By Pabster
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Hello and welcome to this week's edition of the TWO UKScene Newsletter Update. Let's start off with the results round up :
/ All Star - Woodville Halls, Gravesend - 26/02/03 \
- James Mason def. Rick Vain.
- Dave "The Rave" Swift def."The Anarchist" Doug Williams by disqualification.
- Nigel McGuinness def. Broady Steele.
- "The Wonderkid" Jonny Storm and Kid Cool fought to a double pin. It was declared as a draw.
- "Wildcat" Robbie Brookside def. Gangrel.
/ Premier Promotions - Assembly Halls, Worthing - 27/02/03 \
- Doug Williams def. Ricky Knight by 2 falls to 1.
- Flash Barker def. Ricky Knight.
- PWF Heavyweight Championship.
Flash Barker def. Doug Williams by 2 falls to 1 to become the new champion.
- PWF Middleweight Championship.
Mal Sanders def. Barry Cooper
- Karizma def. The Sweet Saraya.
/ All Star - Oakengates Theatre, Telford - 28/02/03 \
- "Hotshot" Johnny Devine def. Lucas Cool.
- Heavy Middleweight Title Eliminator
James Mason def. Migel McGuinness.
- Dave "The Rave" Swift def. Broady Steele.
- "WIldcat" Robbie Brookside def. Gangrel.
- Rick Vain def. "American Avalanche" PN Neuz.
/ CSF - Assembly Halls, Melksham, Wiltshire - 28/02/03 \
- Peter Collins, The Highlander & Karl “The Guvnor” Conroy def. Aaron Fusion, Tex Benedict & Dave Mercy.
- CSF Light Heavyweight championship match
Jake Jeckyl def. Alex Steel
- The Honky Tonk Man def. Jake Roberts.
- Five Star Flash def. Jason Fury & Andy Noble.
- Stu Odyssey & The Eliminator def. Team H8 for the CSF All Nations Tag Team Championships.
/ CSF - Leisure Centre, Yate - 01/03/03 \
- Aaron Fusion def. Karl “The Guvnor” Conroy to win a five man challenge contest.
- Alex Steel def. J J Moore.
- CSF Light Heavyweight Championship
Genocide def. Jake Jeckyl (c) by DQ.
- CSF All Nations Championship
Stu Odyssey (c) def. The Highlander.
- Dave Mercy def. Gideon by 2 falls to 1.
- Craig Steiner def. Five Star Flash.
- Jake "The Snake" Roberts def. The Honky Tonk Man.
Be sure to check out the next UKWA show at the Heringthorpe Leisure Centre in Rotherham on Saturday 8th March. They have been putting on some great shows lately.
It has generally been a quiet week on the UKSCene for out of ring news. Plenty of shows have been held which is good to see though. Check out Adam Sibley's weekly column for all the main news in the UKScene. Sorry for the lack of news.
Cheers,
Pabster.
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US Scene News - By Chris 2k
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Stone Cold Steve Austin sold out the Peoria Civic Center in Canada this week with an autograph signing for the Peoria Rivermen Hockey Club Game which was rescheduled from February 15th. A normal match hosts 4,000 fans, but this week they sold out with over 9,000 fans, some who had camped out the day before just to get an autograph of Austin.
Kevin Nash has now been 100% ruled out of a WrestleMania comeback, even though he feels he could come back now. He does however fear the risk of another injury, so he will make sure he is completely ready before returning. If the injuries sustained by his buddy HHH after the same kind of injury are the same, Nash may have to retire sooner rather than later.
WWE.com has revealed that Jerry 'The King' Lawler's infatuation with puppies has lead him to be a guest photographer at the next Playboy photoshoots. The full interview is up at WWE.com, but needless to say, he's looking forward to it....
Talking of Playboy, Torrie Wilson's appearance in Playboy is scheduled to be in stores in one month's time. A very revealing interview with the diva is up at WWE.com, which gives us an insight to what we'll see of the Golden
Thong award winner...
D'Lo Brown gave a very frank interview on No Holds Barred radio this week, with his release from the WWE the main topic of discussion. He took some criticism from the hosts, mainly about his old gimmicks such as Lo-Down, with a handful of salt, and informed us that he has been in contact with several indy feds. His contract has now officially expired, so he is free to work for anyone whom he chooses.
With the WWE quarterly financial check completed, and losses of over $25 million reported, the federation decided to close down 'The World', formerly known as WWF New York, in order to try and cut the losses. The World has been home to many PPV and TV events over the years, but I'm sure it's 'links' there during shows will not be missed....
This week at a Raw house show, both Randy Orton and Batista were injured.
Orton was attended to on the spot by EMTs, and did not carry on the match.
It was revealed that he had broken three of his toes, with his Big Toe being twisted 90 degrees out of place. Batista tore his bicep, an almost identical injury to the one that Kane sustained last year. This obviously weakens the 'Evolution' stable on Raw even further. It currently comprises three injured stars, HHH, Batista and Orton, and Ric Flair, who on the rare occasions that he wrestles, is way past his best. Even the nWo at their worst had more wrestling ability....
In more injury news, WWE Champion Kurt Angle is thought to have aggravated a constant neck injury whilst the SmackDown! brand was on tour in South Africa this week. At the moment, it is not thought to be as serious as Edge, Rhyno, Benoit, Austin etc. suffered, but even if it is half as bad, the Main Event at WrestleMania and all that leads up to it could be in serious trouble.
Finally, the WWE had been considering the idea of scrapping the King of the
Ring tournament. If you remember a few weeks ago, I mentioned that they are thinking of splitting the PPVs between Raw and Smackdown, and I did not include KOTR in the 4 that would remain with both brands. It is thought they will change it to a Raw PPV, with Vengeance being a SmackDown PPV. The tournament, once a real honour to win, has become much more secluded over recent years, with no established stars taking part in it. It has, however, been a very good launch pad for future stars such as Edge, Kurt Angle and Brock Lesnar, and the tournament is thought of very highly by fans.
/ XPW 'My Bloody Valentine' Results \
Super Crazy beat Chris Candido
Vic Grimes beat Raven
Supreme beat Justice Pain to retain the KOTDM Title
Sothern Comfort bear Mexaco's Most Wanted
Jonny Storm beat Salem (aka Devon Storm)
Youthanazia beat Angel & Shark Boy
Jerry Lynn beat Juvi Guerrera
Sean Waltman (I think) beat Kaos to win the XPW TV Title
Shane Douglas beat Justin Credible to retain the XPW title.
Supreme beat Ian Rotten in a Barbed Wire rope match for the KOTDM Title.
/ RAW House Show - Rochester NY \
The Hurricane beat Steven Richards
Rico beat Matt Cappotelli (TE3 Winner, Rochester native)
Spike Dudley beat Rico
Molly beat Jacqueline
Rob Van Dam beat Christian
Scott Steiner beat Lance Storm
Jeff Hardy beat Christopher Nowinski
D-Von Dudley beat Chief Morley
Chris Jericho beat Test and Stacy Keibler
Triple H beat Booker T to retain the World Title
/ SmackDown! House Show - Johannesburg, South Africa \
Team Angle beat Billy Kidman & Rey Mysterio Jr.
Matt Hardy beat Chavo Guerrero to retain the Cruiserweight Title
Mark Henry beat Hugh Morrus
Eddie Guerrero beat Jamie Noble
Rikishi & Chris Benoit beat John Cena and Kurt Angle in a Kiss my Ass match
Torrie Wilson beat Dawn Marie in a Bra and Panties match with Funaki as the
Special Referee
Brock Lesnar beat the Big Show and Paul Heyman
Heyman got some boos by insulting the SA cricket team!
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International News - By Matt Singh
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// Puroresu News \\
* All Japan Pro Wrestling: *
The third Wrestle-1 show that was cancelled last week has been rescheduled for either May or June
House show results;
A relatively quiet week for AJPW as far as house shows go, with the exception of the Triple Crown changing hands…
On 23/2 at the Nippon Budokan Hall with 15,800 paid attendance
1. Gran Hamada & Taichi Ishikari over Masa Fuchi & Spriggun(this gimmick is based on a Manga cartoon) at 11 minutes 53 seconds when Hamada hit a Hamada Cutter on Spriggun for the pinfall
2. Extreme Blade over Super Dragon at 8 minutes 9 seconds with the ‘Blade of the Dead’ finish for the pin
3. In an elimination match; Tomoaki Honma, Kazushi Miyamoto, Sanshiro Takagi & Tomohiko Hashimoto over Shigeo Okumura, Hideki Hosaka, Ryuji Hijikata & Yuto Aijima at 24 minutes 33 seconds with Honma & Miyamoto as the two survivors going over Okumura
(process of elimination)
- Hijikata over Hashimoto with a Fisherman's Buster for the pinfall
- Miyamoto over Aijima with a clutch hold for the tap-out
- Takagi over Hosaka via pinfall
- Miyamoto over Hijikata via a drop-kick highspot for the pinfall
- Miyamoto over Okumura with an elbow smash for the pin
4. The Gladiator over Nobukazu Hirai at 8 minutes 57 seconds with a flying body press for the pin
5. Kaz Hayashi, Yoji Anjoh & Genichiro Tenryu over Big John Tenta, Gigantes & Jimmy Yang at 15 minutes 12 seconds when Hayashi hit his ‘Final Cut’ finish on Yang for the pin
6. Satoshi Kojima, Arashi, Nobutaka Araya & Kendo Kashin over Shinjiro Ohtani, Masato Tanaka, Kazuhiko Ogasawara & Ryoji Sai at 20 minutes 6 seconds when Kojima landed a lariat on Sai for the pinfall
In continuation of the All Japan/Zero-one angle, after the match Kashin offered himself up to Zero-One’s 2/3 Ryogoku show in a 3-on-1 handicap match where he would take on three Zero-One workers
7. In a match for the AJPW Triple Crown: Shinya Hashimoto (Zero-One, challenger) over Great Muta (Champion, AJPW) at 20 minutes 9 seconds with an avalanche brainbuster for the pinfall
Hashimoto joins Genichiro Tenryu, Vader and Keiji Mutoh (as the Great Muta) as the only four men to have captured both NJPW’s IWGP Heavyweight title and AJPW’s Triple Crown
* Pro Wrestling NOAH: *
Whilst not outright saying it, Misawa eluded that the 1/3 match with Kobashi will be the last time the two will wrestle as singles, Misawa said that he will next team with Yoshinari Ogawa to challenge Jun Akiyama and Hiro Saito to win the GHC Tag Team titles sometime in the not-so-distant future.
House show results;
On 24/2 at Kanagawa City Gym with 1,600 paid attendance:
1. Mitsuo Momota & Rusher Kimura over Kishin Kawabata & Haruka Eigen at 10 minutes 16 seconds when Momota used an inside-cradle on Eigen for the pin
2. Daisuke Ikeda & Masao Inoue went to a 20-minute time-limit draw
3. Donovan Morgan & Michael Modest over Superstar Steve & Scorpio at 16 minutes 19 seconds when Modest hit his ‘Golden Gate Spin’ finish on Steve for the pinfall
4. Jun Izumida & Akira Taue over Makoto Hashi & Akitoshi Saito at 13 minutes 22 seconds when Izumida pinned Hashi
5. Naomichi Marufuji, Takeshi Rikio & Takeshi Morishima over Tsuyoshi Kikuchi, Naoki Sano & Yoshinari Ogawa at 15 minutes 59 seconds when Rikio landed a lariat on Kikuchi for the pin
6. Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Jun Akiyama over Yasuhiro Suzuki & Mitsuharu Misawa at 14 minutes 52 seconds when Kanemaru used an avalanche brainbuster on Suzuki for the pinfall
7. Takashi Sugiura, Bison Smith & Yoshihiro Takayama over KENTA, Tamon Honda & Kenta Kobashi at 20 minutes when Smith used his ‘Bisontennial’ finish on KENTA for the pin
On 26/2 at Mitsukaido Gym with 1,400 paid attendance:
1. Mitsuo Momota & Rusher Kimura over Jun Izumida & Haruka Eigen at 10 minutes 2 seconds when Momota used a school-boy on Eigen for the pin
2. Tamon Honda over Kishin Kawabata at 8 minutes 59 seconds with his ‘Dead End’ finish for the pinfall
3. Makoto Hashi & Yoshinobu Kanemaru over Yasuhiro Suzuki & Naomichi Marufuji at 14 minutes 46 seconds when Hashi hit his ‘Gori Thunder’ finish on Suzuki for the pin
4. Takeshi Rikio & Takeshi Morishima over KENTA & Kenta Kobashi at 16 minutes 11 seconds when Morishima used his ‘Amaze Impact’ finish on KENTA for the pinfall
5. Masao Inoue, Yoshinari Ogawa & Mitsuharu Misawa over Superstar Steve, Michael Modest & Bison Smith at 18 minutes 53 seconds when Ogawa used a back-drop suplex on Steve for the pinfall
6. Akitoshi Saito & Jun Akiyama over Donovan Morgan & Scorpio at 15 minutes 12 seconds when Saito used his ‘Death sickle’ on Morgan for the pin
7. Naoki Sano, Tsuyoshi Kikuchi & Akira Taue over Takashi Sugiura, Daisuke Ikeda & Yoshihiro Takayama at 21 minutes 30 seconds when Sano hit a Northern Lights Bomb on Sugiura for the pinfall
On 27/2 at Yaizu Gym, Shizuoka with 1,600 paid attendance:
1. Jun Izumida & Haruka Eigen over Mitsuo Momota & Rusher Kimura at 8 minutes 59 seconds when Izumida pinned Momota
2. Daisuke Ikeda over Tsuyoshi Kikuchi at 12 minutes 33 seconds with a death valley bomb for the pinfall
3. Akitoshi Saito over Superstar Steve at 10 minutes 48 seconds with Saito’s ‘Death Collector’ finish for the pin
4. Donovan Morgan, Michael Modest & Scorpio over Makoto Hashi, Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Jun Akiyama at 19 minutes 19 seconds when Modest used his ‘Reality Check’ finish on Hashi for the pin
5. Naoki Sano & Tamon Honda over Kishin Kawabata & Akira Taue at 14 minutes 37 seconds when Honda pinned Kawabata
6. Naomichi Marufuji, Takeshi Rikio & Takeshi Morishima over Takashi Sugiura, Bison Smith & Yoshihiro Takayama at 18 minutes 23 seconds when Rikio landed a powerbomb on Sugiura for the pin
7. KENTA, Masao Inoue & Kenta Kobashi over Yasuhiro Suzuki, Yoshinari Ogawa & Mitsuharu Misawa at 25 minutes 54 seconds when KENTA hit a knee-strike on Suzuki for the pinfall
On 1/3 at the Nippon Budokan Hall with 16,700 paid attendance:
1. Mitsuo Momota & Rusher Kimura over Haruka Eigen & Kishin Kawabata at 8 minutes 47 seconds when Momota used a backslide on Kawabata for the pin
2. Akira Taue, Michael Modest & Donovan Morgan over Naoki Sano, Tsuyoshi Kikuchi & Yasuhiro Suzuki at 15 minutes 46 seconds when Modest hit his ‘Reality Check’ finish on Suzuki for the pinfall
3. Naomichi Marufuji & KENTA over Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Makoto Hashi at 16 minutes 35 seconds when Marufuji pinned Hashi
4. Daisuke Ikeda, Takeshi Rikio & Takeshi Morishima over Bison Smith, Superstar Steve & IZU at 12 minutes 39 seconds when Ikeda used his ‘Mr. Big Bomber’ finish on Steve for the pin
5. Scorpio over Yoshinari Ogawa at 6 minutes 20 seconds with a 450-splash for the pinfall. Scorpio is now considered the promotion’s top foreigner
6. Yoshihiro Takayama over Masao Inoue at 7 minutes 2 seconds with a German Suplex Hold for the pinfall
7. Jun Akiyama & Akitoshi Saito over Tamon Honda & Takashi Sugiura at 7 minutes 31 seconds when Akiyama via referee stoppage on Honda
8. In the heavily-hyped GHC Heavyweight Title Match, Kenta Kobashi over Mitsuharu Misawa at 33 minutes 28 seconds when Kobashi hit the legendary Burning Hammer lariat.
Both let it all hang-out in this one, with both giving everything they could which is magnificent considering Kobashi’s knee and elbow injuries and Misawa’s constant state of being banged-up.
* Zero-One: *
Zero-One has announced their big 2/3 Ryogoku Kokugikan Sum Hall show card;
-- Yoshito Sasaki, Kazuhiko Ogasawara & Naohiro Hoshikawa versus Ryuji Hijikata, Kaz Hayashi & Kendo Kashin
-- Ryoji Sai versus Kamikaze
-- Kohei Sato & Masato Tanaka versus Takashi Sugiura & Daisuke Ikeda
-- Katsuhisa Fujii, Wataru Sakata & Yoshiaki Fujiwara versus King Adamo, Steve Corino & Matt Ghaffari
-- Hiro Yokoi & Yoshihiro Takayama versus Jimmy Snuka Jr. & The Predator
-- Naoya Ogawa versus Tom Howard
-- Shinjiro Ohtani & Shinya Hashimoto versus Arashi & Keiji Mutoh
House show results;
On 27/2 at Hamamatsu City Event Hall in Shizuoka with 1,600 paid attendance:
1. Acid (AKA Shaolin from UPW in the States) over Shinsuke Sumiya at 6 minutes 26 seconds with a body press for the pin
2. Yoshito Sasaki & Jun Kasai over Fuyuki Takahashi & Tadahiro Fujisaki at 7 minutes 56 seconds when Kasai used a small-package/inside cradle on Takahashi for the pinfall
3. Low Ki, Pentagon & Paul London over Tatsuhito Takaiwa, Wataru Sakata & Naohiro Hoshikawa at 16 minutes 33 seconds when Low Ki landed a splash on Sakata for the pin
4. Tom Howard & Matt Ghaffari over Steve Corino & Kamikaze at 7 minutes 15 seconds when Ghaffari hit a body press on Kamikaze for the pinfall
5. Masato Tanaka over Kohei Sato at 8 minutes 45 seconds with an elbow for the pin
6. Kazuhiko Ogasawara & Hiro Yokoi over Shinjiro Ohtani & Yusaku at 10 minutes 32 seconds via referee stoppage after Ogasawara beat Yusaku with mounted punches
7. Shinya Hashimoto & Yoshiaki Fujiwara over The Predator & King Adamo at 15 minutes 36 seconds when Hashimoto landed a DDT on Adamo for the pinfall. After the conclusion of the match, Arashi went to the ring and challenged Hashimoto to a Triple Crown title match
* Fighting World of Japan: *
FWJ have released their cards/line-ups for their first March swing (tour)::
15/3 Tokyo, Korakuen Hall
-- Takashi Uwano versus Nobutaka Araya
-- Tomohiro Ishii versus Yoji Anjoh
-- Masahiko Kochi & Yoshiaki Yatsu versus Kazushi Miyamoto & Tomoaki Honma
-- Todd & Mike Shane versus Road Warriors
-- Kenzo Suzuki versus Steve Madison
-- Kensuke Sasaki versus Big Vito
-- Shiro Koshinaka versus Takao Omori
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
16/3 Sendai, Miyagi Prefectural Sports Center
-- Takashi Uwano & Masahiko Kochi versus Kazushi Miyamoto & Tomoaki Honma
-- Yoshiaki Yatsu versus Steve Madison
-- Kenzo Suzuki versus Big Vito
-- Kensuke Sasaki versus Nobutaka Araya
-- Takao Omori versus Yoji Anjoh
-- No-Rope Street Fight Death Match: Ricky Fuji & Atsushi Onita versus Tomohiro Ishii & Shiro Koshinaka
-- IPW Hardcore Tag Titles Match: Todd & Mike Shane versus The Road Warriors
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
18/3 Gunma, Ota Citizen Gym
-- Masahiko Kochi versus Kazushi Miyamoto
-- Tomohiro Ishii versus Tomoaki Honma
-- Takashi Uwano versus Yoji Anjoh
-- Takao Omori versus Nobutaka Araya
-- No-Rope Barbed Wire Death Match: Yoshiaki Yatsu & Shiro Koshinaka versus Ricky Fuji & Atsushi Onita
-- Todd & Mike Shane versus Big Vito & Steve Madison
-- Kenzo Suzuki & Kensuke Sasaki versus The Road Warriors
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
19/3 Saitama, Soka City Health Sports Center
-- Tomohiro Ishii versus Kazushi Miyamoto
-- Takashi Uwano & Masahiko Kochi versus Ricky Fuji & Yoji Anjoh
-- Steve Madison versus Tomoaki Honma
-- Big Vito versus Nobutaka Araya
-- Shiro Koshinaka & Kensuke Sasaki versus Todd & Mike Shane
-- Yoshiaki Yatsu & Kenzo Suzuki versus The Road Warriors
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
20/3 at Nagareyama Citizen Gym
-- Takashi Uwano versus Kazushi Miyamoto
-- Yoshiaki Yatsu versus Tomoaki Honma
-- Big Vito versus Nobutaka Araya
-- Kenzo Suzuki versus Yoji Anjoh
-- Kensuke Sasaki versus Steve Madison
-- No-Rope Barbed Wire Death Match: Tomohiro Ishii & Shiro Koshinaka versus Ricky Fuji & Atsushi Onita
-- Todd & Mike Shane versus Road Warriors
-- Riki Choshu versus Genichiro Tenryu
FWJ on 1/3 at the Yokohama Arena with 13,200 with their debut show:
1. Tomohiro Ishii over Takashi Uwano at 12 minutes 37 seconds via referee stoppage after mounted punches
2. Tomoaki Honma over Masahiko Kochi at 9 minutes 12 seconds with a crab hold for the tap-out
3. Yoshiaki Yatsu over Yoji Anjoh in 11 minutes 24 seconds by tap-out
4. In an IPW Hardcore Tag Titles match, Animal & Hawk Warrior over Todd & Mike Shane at 11 minutes 4 seconds after Animal pinned Mike resulting from the double impact finish. Before the match Tiger Hattori, Masa Saito and others did a 10-bell tribute salute in memory of Curt Hennig (said to be a classy display of unity by all concerned)
5. In the No-Rope Barbed Wire Death Match, Shiro Koshinaka over Atsushi Onita at 8 minutes 5 seconds via disqualification after Onita tried to use a fireball and the green-mist gimmick after Koshinaka brought a chair into the ring, this match was said to be a stinker (it did have Onita in it after all)
6. Takao Omori over Kenzo Suzuki at 12 minutes 53 seconds with an axe bomber for the pinfall (looks like Omori has found a new home after his NOAH departure)
7. Kensuke Sasaki & Hiroshi Hase over Don Frye (former UFC Champion) & Dan Bobish at 12 minutes 59 seconds when Sasaki hit a lariat on Bobish for the pinfall
8. Riki Choshu over Genichiro Tenryu at 7 minutes 53 seconds with a lariat for the pin
Overall a successful debut for Riki Choshu’s FWJ, the promotions debut got a lot of press and media coverage in Japan, which is a good sign for the group as the press play a hugely important part in the making and breaking of an up-start promotion
// Lucha Libre News \\
* EMLL: *
House show results;
On 23/2 with no crown announced in Monterrey:
La Justiciera & Princesa Yara over Gatubela & Serpiente Salvaje
Cats & Crazzy Rock over Bengali & Halcon Maltes
Los Caifanes Rockeros I & II & Jungla Negra Jr. over Ricky Marvin (who will be receiving an NWA/TNA try-out sometime within the next month), Alan & Chris Stone
Ultimo Guerrero & Rey Bucanero ( both receiving NWA/TNA try-outs within the next month) over Damian & Misterioso
Brazo de Plata, La Parka & Shocker over Dr. Wagner Jr., Nicho & Sergio Romo Jr
* AAA: *
House show results;
On 23/2 with no crowd announced:
Black Soul, Chamaco Ortiz & Titanic over Cocoliso, Darkside & Falcon Kid
Armageddon over Chamaco Rivera
Lady Apache & Poly Star over La Chacala & Tiffany
El Brazo, Chucky, Monsther & Potro Jr. over Alebrije, Cuije, Mascara Sagrada & Tigre Universitario
Hator & Monje Negro Jr. over Diluvio Negro II & Mongol Chino Sr.
Jerry Estrada, Head Hunter I & Jason the Terrible over Diluvio Negro I, Hombre sin Nombre & La Parka Jr.
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Superstar Spotlight - By Craig Russell
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.:Jerry Lynn:.
Trademark Moves- Cradle Piledriver, Cradle Tombstone Piledriver, Tornado DDT.
Titles Held-
WWF Light Heavyweight Title (1)
ECW World Heavyweight Title (1)
NWA-TNA X Division Title (2)
NWA World Tag Team Titles (1) (with A.J. Styles)
GWF Light Heavyweight Title (1)
PWA Heavyweight Title (1)
PWA Light Heavyweight Title (3)
PWA Tag Team Titles (1) (with Lightning Kid)
For over a decade now, Jerry Lynn has been one of the most underused talents in the US wrestling scene. Born June 12, 1963, Lynn made his pro wrestling debut at the age of 25. Just two years later, in 1990, he became the PWA Light Heavyweight champion. Later that year, he captured the PWA Heavyweight title. Quickly becoming one of the hottest commodities on the indy scene, Lynn started his memorable feud with Sean “X Pac” Waltman in 1991. The pair battled each other on shows all over the country, as Waltman set out to humiliate Lynn. On one occasion, Waltman tried to sell locks of Lynn’s hair!
Soon after that, both men decided to team up. The high flying combination of Waltman and Lynn was a massive success, as the team won gold in many promotions, both in the US and Japan. Despite his success in the Far East, Lynn craved recognition in his home country, and attempted to break into the WWF. After failing to find employment with the McMahons, Lynn agreed to work with WCW. He was repackaged as “Mr JL”, a masked cruiserweight. Unfortunately, Lynn’s career failed to take off down south, only managing one PPV appearance against Sabu at Halloween Havoc 95. Eric Bischoff, failing to see the natural talent behind the foolish gimmick, released Lynn. Jerry was not to be put off his dream of stardom though, as he went back to his indy roots, putting on memorable matches for numerous promotions. In 1997, Jerry Lynn had another WWF try out, and again, he was unsuccessful. However, luck would be on his side later in the year, as Lynn was offered a spot in Extreme Championship Wrestling, perhaps the biggest promotion in the US, outside of the Big Two.
During his time in ECW, Jerry Lynn started a red-hot rivalry with the popular Rob Van Dam. RVD claimed he was the “Whole F’n Show”, but after witnesses classic bouts with Little Guido, Yoshihiro Tajiri, Steve Corino and Lance Storm, the ECW faithful dubbed Jerry Lynn the “New F’n Show”. Despite the new moniker, Lynn had never defeated RVD in singles competition. Finally, at ECW Hardcore Heaven 2000, Jerry Lynn pinned Rob Van Dam, with the help of the turncoat Scotty Anton. With his jinx finally beaten, Lynn started his quest for the ECW heavyweight title. At Anarchy Rulz 2000, Lynn managed to overcome nemesis Justin Credible, and win the “big one”. Many claimed that Lynn was not ready for the title, and that owner Paul Heyman had rushed Lynn and Steve Corino to the top of the card, when they should have been pushed gradually.
As the structure of ECW fell down around him, not long after dropping his world title, Lynn managed to get a contract with WWF. He made a fantastic start to his career in the big time, beating Crash Holly in his debut to win the Light Heavyweight title. However, trouble came in early summer 2001, when Lynn suffered a torn patella. This caused him to miss quite a bit of action. On his return, he was excluded from the ECW invasion angle, due to bad blood with new WWF writer, and former boss of Lynn, Paul Heyman. Déjŕ vu struck, as in a similar way to his departure from WCW, Lynn was released in late 2001 because creative had nothing for him to do.
After appearing on a WWA PPV, Lynn was once again the most exciting wrestler accepting indy bookings. Now in NWA TNA, Jerry Lynn is one of the top talents. This time around, management have realised his skills, and have rewarded the “New F’n Show” with gold, in the shape of the World Tag Team Titles, and the X Division title (twice). After putting on several classic matches with AJ Styles last year, NWA TNA fans can look forward to seeing more of Jerry Lynn in 2003.
Recommended Jerry Lynn Matches-
Jerry Lynn Vs Rob Van Dam- ECW Living Dangerously 99
Jerry Lynn Vs AJ Styles Vs Low Ki- NWA TNA 8
Jerry Lynn Vs Sean Waltman- PWA, 1991
Great Sasuke Vs Sultan Gargola (Jerry Lynn)- M-Pro Fukumen Masked Man Tournement 1995
.:Yuji Nagata:.
Trademark Moves- Nagata Locks I (Reverse Figure Four Leglock), II (Crippler Crossface) and III (Regal Strech/Rings Of Saturn Combo)
Titles Held-
IWGP Tag Team Titles (1, w/ Manabu Nakanishi)
IWGP Heavyweight Title (1)
Tournaments Won-
G1 Climax 2001
G1 Tag League 2000 (w/ Takashi Iizuka)
WCW Tag Team Titles Contender Tournament 1998 (w/ Kensuke Sasaki)
Naeba Tag Tournament 2001 (w/ Jushin Liger)
Perhaps one of the most skilful and talented technical wrestlers in the world, current IWGP champion Yuji Nagata is known just as well for his trademark salute, as his exciting matches. You may have seen Nagata wrestle before in NJPW, NOAH, ZERO-ONE or even in the States, with WCW. Aged 35, the former NK Gun and Fighting Club G-EGGS member made a name for himself at the 2001 G1 Climax, where he successfully defeated Minoru Tanaka, Tadao Yasuda, Tatsumi Fujinami, Masahiro Chono and the great Keiji Mutoh. Nagata even holds wins over Mitsuharu Misawa and Kenta Kobashi, as he teamed up with Jun Akiyama on NOAH's 17th February 2002 to take on both men in a tag team match, coming up trumps. Three months later, Nagata won the IWGP World Heavyweight title from Yasuda, cementing his status as one of the top wrestlers in New Japan. With 8 successful IWGP title defences to his name, Nagata only needs to pick up one more win to equal Hashimoto's record of 9 successful title defences.
Recommended Yuji Nagata Matches-
Yuji Nagata and Jun Akiyama Vs Mitsuhara Misawa and Kenta Kobashi- NOAH, 17/02/02
Yuji Nagata Vs Keiji Mutoh- NJPW, 12/08/02
Yuji Nagata and Manabu Nakanishi Vs Hiroyoshi Tenzan and Satoshi Kojima- NJPW G1 Tag League Finals 2001
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Indy 101 - By Trinity
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Wrestling has been in my blood for years. Growing up in the “Golden Age” of World Wrestling Federation during the 80’s and the rise of WCW during the late 80s, early 90’s breeds a love for a sport for that reeks of masculinity.
But to quote No Doubt-“I’m just a girl in the world”
Surprise Surprise… the idea of a female wrestling fan conjures the ideas of the female soap opera nut that lives for all the backstage drama, the skits, and not for the action in the ring. I’ve never been like that nor would I ever want to be like that. As I watched ECW’s hardcore dreams crumbled under bankruptcy and the WWE rise to its monopolized state, the ideas of wrestling disappeared. Drama bravado, characters reigned, and put me off more than anything else. I had to search to find something else, other feds to watch that gave me what I wanted. And I found it.
Independent Federations in the United States were my savior. Not as suave and polished as the WWE, but they cater to their populations, to almost cult-like followings. You miss the ECW of old, XPW caters to that fan base, the mixture of the hardcore and wrestlers that were once old employees of the previous company. Blood, brawls and broads? Pro Pain Pro Wrestling, also known as 3PW stacked their cards to live by the credo. CZW and IWA Mid-South live by their violence and reckless abandon. Finally for those that believe in the Code of Honor and Technical wrestling expertise, Ring of Honor is what your heart desires.
Even as the feds have their own cult followings, Indy wrestlers have their own followings of their own. Guys like Chris Hero, CM Punk, Shane Douglas, Raven, “Sick” Nick Mondo, Low-Ki, The Amazing Red, SAT’s, Homicide, The Backseat Boys, and Messiah to name a few. Different Styles different characters, varied in every way possible. These men entertain, put their lives on the line, and push the limit. It gives me something more. Some, the skilled at ring psychology, some may be the most charismatic, and others put their bodies on the line.
Hopefully over the next few months in my columns, I can show you more than the weedwhackers and blown spots that most bring to the forefront. The WWE shelters even the most “discerning” fan, but I learned from one of my present day classes:
“You don’t miss what you don’t know.”
Maybe its time to see what you’re missing. Hopefully I get to be the one that gives a glimpse to it for everyone. This is just an introduction. For those who want to assume that my sex is an deterrent, be warned, just because I have only X chromosomes doesn’t mean I can’t show a couple of you up. But of course everyone’s feedback is completely welcomed. This is a new thing for me. Any opinions, good or bad, critiques, or vicious assaults should be sent to me at Trinity@talkwrestlingonline.com
Till the next time
-Trinity
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Contributers
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TWO Site News - Mitchell Jones (Mitchell@talkwrestlingonline.com)
UK Scene News – Pabster (Pabster@talkwrestlingonline.com)
US Scene News - Chris2k (Chris2k@talkwrestlingonline.com)
Puroresu News - Matthew Singh (Singhy@talkwrestlingonline.com)
Superstar Spotlight - Craig Russell (Russ@talkwrestlingonline.com)
Indy 101 - Trinity (Trinity@talkwrestlingonline.com)
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That's it for this week. Any feedback would be gladly appreciated. Send it, along with any questions or queries, to Mitchell@talkwrestlingonline.com or to any of our contributors. We want your input to help make the newsletter the best we can.
With that in mind, have a good week.
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