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Post by bookerbill on Jan 5, 2011 22:24:17 GMT -5
The temptation of having Lou Thesz in my fed was too much to resist so I have started up a new fed called Ring of Legends. Here are the results of the first card.
Card 1: Philadelphia, PA – Spectrum. January 5, 2011 (proofed)
Ring of Legends World Title Tournament Qualification Tournament
Match 1: Lou Thesz v. Angelo Mosca Gary Michael Cappetta has the introductions and we are underway. Thesz offers a handshake to Mosca and Big Nasty will have no part of it drawing great heat from ringside. Thesz looks confident early on controlling the action on the mat. Mosca takes over after both men tangle on the floor and attacks with a series of stomps, tackles and clotheslines. Thesz uses a series of forearms at ringside to regain control and stuns Mosca with an airplane spin for a 1 count (R12/P3). Thesz follows with a pair of THESZ PRESSES for the win (R7/P6) (R7/P7). Mosca is adamant that he had is shoulder up at the count of three and is all over the referee but the decision stands and Thesz is onto the next round at 9:57. * ½
Match 2: Steve Williams v. Don Muraco w/Captain Lou Albano The fans are all over Muraco with a “beach bum” chant during the introductions. Muraco gets on the mic and tells the fans to shut up cranking up the heat. Muraco is fired up and comes out strong catching Williams in an over the shoulder backbreaker but Williams struggles free (R6/P3). Muraco immediately follows with a HAWAIIAN HAMMER for a 2 ½ count (R8/P6) and the fans can feel an upset and get behind Williams who responds by dragging Muraco outside and sending him into the ring post. Back inside, Williams hits an OKLAHOMA STAMPEDE for a 1 ½ count (R8/P5). Muraco battles back and connects with a falling face slam and an impressive vertical suplex. Williams counters a backdrop with piledriver and never looks back ending the match moments later at 9:48 with an OKLAHOMA STAMPEDE (R5/P6). * ½
Match 3: Bruiser Brody v. Curt Hennig A classic match up of brawling v. science was featured as the tournament continued. Brody hits the ring barking and swinging his chain and never lets up tearing into Hennig in and out of the ring. Hennig fights back during a brawl on the floor and manages to reverse a whip into the steel rails to gain the upper hand. The action returns to the ring and Hennig stuns the fans by getting the three count with a HENNIG PLEX (R4/P4) at 4:43. After the match, Brody attacks Hennig but Hennig turns things around and a series of dropkicks sends Brody to the floor. Brody lands awkwardly and appears to have injured his leg as he hobbles to the back. Dud
Match 4: Jimmy Snuka v. Greg Valentine Snuka is easily one of the most popular competitors in Ring of Legends. These two know each other well after spending years in the same promotions in the North East. Greg Valentine starts strong keeping the Superfly on the defensive. Snuka is able to counter a backdrop with a piledriver and uses a second piledriver to get a 1 count (R7/P4). Snuka tosses Valentine to the floor and the Hammer crawls back into the ring and Snuka ends it with a SUPERFLY LEAP at 12:58 (R8/P8). *
Harley Race is Bill Apter’s guest on the Hot Seat. Race cuts a great promo hyping his multiple previous title reigns calling himself the most decorated competitor in Ring of Legends. When asked about his match with Ed Strangler Lewis in two weeks in Pittsburgh Race said it would be history in the making and at the end of the night he would be the one advancing to the World Title Tournament.
Match 5: Lou Thesz v. Steve Williams The fans are split during the introductions but are hot for the action. Williams uses his power to set the pace including a Doctor Bomb. Thesz counters a figure four leglock (ch) and puts Williams on mat with an airplane spin for a 1 count (R9/P4). Williams gets a breather on the floor but when the action returns to the ring Thesz wraps Williams up with a stepover toehold facelock but Dr. Death powers free (R9/P5). Thesz dominates the balance of the match including a running slingshot in the corner and another stepover toehold facelock. A GRECO-ROMAN BACKDROP (R6/P8) puts Thesz into the finals at 8:40. * ½
Match 6: Curt Hennig v. Jimmy Snuka For the second time tonight, Snuka is in the ring with a competitor he has battled multiple times in the past. Snuka tires a press slam but Hennig drop behind and attacks with a rolling neck snap. Hennig hooks Snuka’s tights and gets the win at 1:35 (R4/P4). The fans are stunned. Dud.
Match 7: The Mongols w/Captain Lou Albano v. The Last of The Famous International Playboys Solid ovation for the Playboys especially from the ladies in attendance. Bepo Mongol shows off his power early on with a Croatian Suplex on Buff Bagwell for a near fall (R5/P4). The Mongols follow up with a MONGOLIAN DROP. Bepo blocks Brutus Beefcake and Geeto hooks the leg but Bagwell gets his shoulder up (R10/P7). Beefcake is able to hot tag in after Geeto misses an elbow drop. Bepo turns things around with his power advantage and the Mongols crush Beefcake with a MONGOLIAN DROP for a 2 count (R8/P5). Geeto has Beefcake in trouble but telegraphs a backdrop and Beefcake counters with a piledriver. Bagwell is in with a double arm DDT followed by dropkicks for a 1 count (R9/P3). Bagwell is all over the Mongol. A deathjump smash sets up a BUFF BLOCKBUSTER but Geeto kicks out at the last second (R6/P5). Bagwell hits a second BUFF BLOCKBUSTER and Bepo breaks up the cover. Beefcake tags in and downs Geeto with a FLYING KNEE SMASH. Bagwell ties up Bepo but Albano causes a distraction and the action continues. A sleeper sends Geeto to the floor but Beefcake misses a falling double hammer at ringside. Bepo is in and mounts the corner but Beefcake catches him and tosses the Mongol to the mat. Bagwell tags in and connects with a BUFF BLOCKBUSTER but Albano jumps into the ring. Bagwell chases Albano to the floor and runs into a clothesline by Bepo. Bepo attacks Bagwell with his chains and the referee calls for the disqualification at 19:22. Bepo chokes out Bagwell while Geeto lays the boots to Bagwell. Security arrives and Albano leads his team to the back drawing great heat. ***
Match 8: Lou Thesz v. Curt Hennig The fans are behind Thesz during the introductions and Thesz builds on their support starting out on fire. An airplane spin sends Hennig to the floor and when Hennig crawls back into the ring Thesz is ready with a THESZ PRESS for the three count at 3:00. dud
News and Views: It came as no surprise that Lou Thesz won tonight’s tournament but Curt Hennig did manage to turn some heads with some questionable tactics to make it to the final before being outclassed by Thesz . . . Bruiser Brody suffered a 3 card injury in the post match brawl following his shocking loss to Curt Hennig in the opening round of the tournament . . . Dave Meltzer is reporting the Ring of Legends is booked into Madison Square Garden on February 16th and that card will feature the finals of the World Title Tournament. Meltzer has also learned that the tournament finals will be a round robin tournament with a point system to determine the winner. The remaining qualifying tournaments are scheduled for January 19th and February 2nd . . . Up next, Ring of Legends heads to the North Witschi's Sports Arena for a solid night of action headlined by the team of Jimmy Snuka & Bruiser Brody facing The Mongols.
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Post by bookerbill on Jan 12, 2011 6:48:47 GMT -5
Card 2: North Attleboro, MA - Witschi's Sports Arena, January 12, 2011
Match 1: Hacksaw Jim Duggan v. Butcher Vachon Warm reception for Duggan as he comes to ringside. Despite the support of the fans Duggan struggles early on which builds the tension at ringside. Duggan counters a backdrop with a piledriver and then follows with a FLYING SPEAR for a 2 count (R7/P5). Vachon kicks out of a second FLYING SPEAR (R9/P6). The fans are really into the action at this point. Vachon is nearly counted out of the ring after a Duggan assault at ringside but Vachon later manages to avoid Duggan’s charge into the corner and Duggan crashes into the buckles leading to a 1 count by Vachon (R10/P4). Vachon immediately mounts the corner for a deathjump smash but no one is home and Vachon crashes to the mat. Duggan wisely hooks the leg and that is it at 11:57. Entertaining opener. ** ½
Match 2: Larry Hennig v. Steve Corino Hennig overpowers Corino early on. Things get violent during a brawl on the floor and Corino is busted open after eating the ring rails. Corino takes a beating and is an absolute bloody mess but somehow finds a way to turns things around using his agility to avoid Hennig’s offense. Corino’s slap to the face only fires Hennig and the fans up. Corino punches free of a bearhug (R9/P3) twice (R7/P4) before Hennig catches Corino with a deathjump clothesline. Corino grabs the ropes to escape another bearhug (R7/P6). Corino is bloodied and battered but manages to catch Hennig on the top of the buckles and tosses him to the mat. It is all Corino now with a figure four leglock (ch) and superkick. A powerslam gets Corino another near fall with Hennig kicking out at the last second. (R4/P3). OLD SCHOOL EXPULSION but Hennig kicks out (R7/P5) at 2 and the fans are over the top. The action spills in and out of the ring as both men continue to brawl until the time limit expires at 30:00. Both men fight there way back to the dressing room as the fans stand in appreciation.****
Match 3: Nigel McGuinness & Les Thatcher v. Jerry Lynn and “The Libertarian” Sean Morley. Thatcher earns some heat by going after Lynn as he is arriving at ringside. Lynn reverses a whip into the table and we are underway. Lynn and Morley work over Thatcher for a few minutes before McGuinness is able to tag in to the action. McGuinness and Lynn each go for a clothesline and crash together in the middle of the ring. McGuinness is up first and traps Lynn in the LONDON DUNGEON but cannot get the win (R10/P3). JAWBREAKER LARIAT put Lynn back on the mat for a 1 count (R12/P4). Lynn wins a brawl against Thatcher on the floor and Morley is back in the match. CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM and Morley gets the three count (R6/P6) at 11:55. **
Match 4: Rick Rude w/ Sir Oliver Humperdink v. Dick Hutton Great heat for Rude as he shows us what a real man looks like. Rude looks impressive early on including a double hammer off the top of the buckles onto Hutton at ringside that nearly causes Hutton to be counted out of the ring. Rude hits a RUDE AWAKENING for a 2 ½ count (R7/P6). The crowd gets behind Hutton and he is able to make is comeback blocking a knee lift to the midsection. The match spills to the floor and Hutton uses an atomic drop to send Rude into the ring post shoulder first. Rude is nearly counted out of the ring. Hutton uses an atomic drop in the ring sets up a side salto for a 1 count (R12/P3). Rude powers out of an ABDOMINAL STRETCH (R9/P5) but Hutton applies the hold again and Rude cannot escape at 11:00 (R6/P6). Humperdink makes no effort to save his wrestler and is stunned as Rude submits. The crowd roars with approval as Hutton is announced as the winner.** ½
Bill Apter hosts the Hot Seat with Nature Boy Buddy Rogers who cuts a solid heel promo telling the fans that he the ROL top attraction and whether the fans like it or not. Roger explains he is the reason that the fans come to the arenas and spend the money they have earned from their menial minimum wage jobs for a ticket. Apter brings up the performance of Lou Thesz last week and Rogers tells Apter that Thesz does not impress him. Rogers claims he has been waiting years for another shot at Thesz and soon his wait will be over.
Match 5: Greg & Johnny Valentine v. The Last of the Famous International Playboys Valentine knows Brutus Beefcake well so it is Buff Bagwell who is the wild card in this one. The Playboys receive a great reaction from the fans as they make their way to the ring and stop for a couple of photo ops. Bagwell starts against Greg Valentine and is able to counter a backdrop with a boot to the face. Valentine roughs up Bagwell at ringside and tags in his father who takes Bagwell to the floor once again. Both men brawl around the ring but Valentine comes out on top and drops Bagwell with an ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER in the middle of the ring for the win at 8:35 (R4/P4). No save attempt form Beefcake who was clearly surprised his partner did not kick out of the cover. (dud)
Match 6: Antonino Rocca v. Cowboy Bob Orton w/Sir Oliver Humperdink The fans love Rocca and there is a massif pop as he comes to the ring. Orton blocks a monkey flip attempt early on in the match and is able to down Rocca with a running slingshot in the corner. A SUPERPLEX nearly ends it (R6/P3). It is all Orton for the next several minutes with a series of powerbombs, piledrivers and middle rope splashes. Rocca goes into the ropes and both men go for a clothesline and crash together in the middle of the ring. Rocca is up first and is able to take control of the action for the first time since the opening moments of the match. Rocca rams Orton into the ringside table and then traps him in an ARGENTINIAN BACKBREAKER for the win at 14:13. (R4/P5). *
Match 7: Jim Londos v. Don Muraco w/Captain Lou Albano Londos is also wildly popular with the fans, especially the ladies, and he is greeted warmly as he comes to ringside. Londos frustrates Muraco early on but Muraco is able to take control at ringside and attempts for the submission with an Asiatic Spike but Londos is able to escape (R7/P2). Londos is nearly counted out of the ring after another attack on the floor and Muraco picks up a 2 count after a deathjump cross body block (R7/P4). Londos counters a choke slam with a short arm scissors to begin his comeback. Muraco eats the ringside rails and the fans love it. Back inside, Londos catches Muraco in an AIRPLANE SPIN. Albano is not able to distract the referee but Muraco kicks out (R6/P5). Londos hits a second AIRPLANE SPIN and that is it (R6/P6) at 16:23. Muraco and Albano try to attack Londos after the bell but Londos is able to escape from the ring before being injured.***
Match 8: Bruiser Brody & Jimmy Snuka v. The Mongols w/Captain Lou Albano Brody is clearly favoring his ankle but still manages to storm the ring with his chain swinging about his head. Snuka is wearing solid black trucks tonight with a black headband. Snuka starts off against Geeto Mongol and then Bepo steps in with a defensive tag. Bepo gets the short end of the battle of headbutts and Brody is in to a solid pop from ringside. Brody attacks with back to back one handed slams and then covers Bepo for the three count at 6:28. (dud). (R4/P4)
News and Views: Not a great night for Captain Lou Albano as all of his men come out of the losing end of their bouts tonight which was highlighted by the battle between Larry Hennig and Steve Corino . . . Further details about the February 16th Madison Square Garden Show have been released as Bill Apter has reported that the finals of the World Title Tournament will feature four competitors with three more joining Lou Thesz. Two of the competitors will be determined in upcoming tournaments like the one next week and the final spot will be awarded to the winner of the “win to get in” battle royal booked to take place on February 9th. Only wrestlers will at least one win will be invited to participate in the battle royal. . . Speaking of the February 9th card, Dave Meltzer is reporting that Ring of Legends will announce this week that opening round of the Tag Team Title Tournament will take place on that the night in Capital Centre in Landover will the finals taking place the following week at MSG . . . Up next, Ring of Legends heads to Civic Arena in Pittsburgh. The card will feature an eight man tournament to determine the next participant in the World Title Tournament. The opening round matches are Mil Mascaras v. One Man Gang, Harley Race v. Ed Strangler Lewis, Bobo Brazil v. Mad Dog Vachon and Terry Gordy v. John Pesek.
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Post by bookerbill on Jan 19, 2011 6:38:03 GMT -5
Card 3: Pittsburgh, PA - Civic Arena, January 19, 2011
Ring of Legends World Title Tournament Qualification Tournament
Match 1: Mil Mascaras v. One Man Gang w/Sir Oliver Humperdink The fans give Mascaras a great ovation as he is introduced before this classic match up of power v. speed. Gang weighs more than double his opponent and uses that to his advantage early on. Mascaras is able to whip Gang into the ring post to turn things around. Humperdink is all over the referee demanding a disqualification. Mascaras manages to keep Gang on the mat for a period of time but when the action returns to vertical base Gang resumes control. Scoop Body Slam gives Gang a 1 count (R8/P1). Gang takes the action to the floor and chokes his opponent on the steel rails. Gang refuses to release the choke and is disqualified at 12:18. Officials arrive quickly to break things up so no one is injured. Humperdink is complaining about bias officiating all the way back to the dressing room.*
Match 2: Harley Race v. Ed Strangler Lewis Neither man acknowledges the fans during the introduction so the fans know this one was going to be intense. Lewis is the early aggressor and a STRANGLER’S HEADLOCK forces Race to grab the ropes (R4/P2). Lewis works over Race’s upper body on the mat. A double wristlock leads to a one count (R10/P3) before the action spills to the floor and Race turns things around. Race works over the leg with series of Indian Deathlocks. Lewis battles back with a series of takedowns and a full nelson that forces Race to the floor. Race drags Lewis outside and whips him into the ring post drawing great heat from the fans at ringside. Lewis is stunned and Race capitalizes with a deathjump smash and then plants Lewis with a PILEDRIVER for the three count (R5/P5) at 17:36. **
Match 3: Bobo Brazil v. Mad Dog Vachon The pop for Brazil is off the charts. Mad Dog is booed out of the building but starts strong avoiding his much larger opponent and downing Brazil with a cross body block deathjump for a 1 count (R6/P1). Vachon mounts the corner again but this time Brazil catches him on the top buckle and tosses Vachon to the mat. COCO BUTT and Vachon barely kicks out of the cover (R4/P3). The crowd is on fire. Brazil with a full nelson suplex followed by a big hammer punch for a 1 count (R11/P4). Things heat up as both men take the action to the floor and tear apart ringside. Brazil comes out on top and drops Vachon with another COCO BUTT for a 1 count (R11/P5). Brazil takes his turn mounting the corner for a deathjump attack but Vachon counters and knocks Brazil off the top of the buckles to the mat. Vachon goes for figure four leglock (ch) but Brazil kicks him off. Brazil whips Vachon into the corner but Vachon is able to step clear of Brazil’s charge and Brazil hits the buckles hard. Vachon covers. 1, 2, kick out (R3/P2). The crowd is nervous and can smell an upset. Vachon plants Brazil with a PILEDRIVER. There is no kick out this time and Vachon is onto the semi-finals at 12:43 (R3/P5). ***
Match 4: Terry Gordy v. John Pesek The final match of the opening round of the tournament featured an interesting contrast to styles with the brawler meeting the mat technician. Pesek sends Gordy into the ropes and both men go for a clothesline and crash together. Pesek is up first and traps Gordy in a TIGERMAN TOEHOLD but Gordy is able to kick Pesek off (R5/P2). Pesek moves to a DOUBLE WRISTLOCK and Gordy is howling but manages to hook the ropes with his boot to force the break (R4/P3). Gordy takes control at ringside and then slows the match down with a painful ORIENTAL SPIKE that Pesek is able to escape (R6/P3) by grabbing the ropes. Gordy continues to work the upper body including a deathjump clothesline which sets up a PILEDRIVER for a 2 ½ count (R8/P7). Pesek is in trouble and Gordy ends it with a running lariat at 9:18 (R5/P6). ***
Rob Van Dam & Bill Alfonso are on the Hot Seat and Alfonso is blowing his whistle and annoying Apter. Alfonso tells us he is the man who calls it down the middle and this is Rob Van Dam, the man who will be Ring of Legends World Champion. Van Dam tells us he has changed his name from Mr. Monday Night to Mr. Wednesday Night and that regardless of what night he appears, he is still the whole *&$%! show. Van Dam promises the fans in Worcester, MA that is just what they will get because he is Rob Van Dam and he is what the people of paid to see.
Match 5: Mil Mascaras v. Harley Race Race is very focused during the introductions by Gary Michael Cappetta but struggles to contain Mascaras and his agility attack. Race drags Mascaras to the floor and whips him into the ring post shoulder first. The referee calls for the disqualification at 7:56 and Mascaras is through to the finals without even scoring a clean win so far. (dud)
Match 6: Terry Gordy v. Mad Dog Vachon Vachon stunned many of the fans with his first round win over Brazil and looked to keep the momentum going in a battle of the brawlers. Vachon was the aggressor with this one managing to avoid much of Gordy’s offense and then attacking with bites, brawling and chokeholds. Vachon catches Gordy with a deathjump clothesline late in the match and then plants him with a PILEDRIVER for the stunning victory at 21:12. **
Match 7: Jerry Lynn & “The Libertarian” Sean Morley v. Curt & Larry Hennig We take a break from tournament matches for a tag team battle. Morley draws heat with his pre-match mic work hyping the Libertarian lifestyle and running down the fans. All four men see action early on. Lynn uses a pair of German suplexes to send Curt Hennig to the floor and then comes out after his opponent. Both men brawl around the ring and the referee is not able to regain control and disqualifies both men at 11:05. (dud)
Match 8: Mil Mascaras v. Mad Dog Vachon No one in the building gave Vachon a chance to get this far but now he was just one win away from a spot in the World Title Tournament at Madison Square Garden on February 16th. Vachon draws solid heat early on with a chair shot across Mascaras’ back. Mascaras is able to come back and sets the pace with a solid mat attack mixed with arm drags and monkey flips. The pace remains quick until the very end which comes when Vachon reverses a whip into the corner but Mascaras avoids Vachon’s shoulder tackle sending Vachon crashing into the buckle. Mascaras quickly rolls up Vachon for the three count at 18:35. *
News and Views: Mad Dog Vachon shook things up tonight brawling his way all the way to the finals tonight before losing to Mil Mascaras who will now joint Lou Thesz in the Tournament Finals on February 16th. Mascaras barely made it through the opening round bout against One Man Gang and Sir Oliver Humperdink was making noise about a rematch as soon as possible. . . . Dave Meltzer is reporting some controversy regarding the win to get in Battle Royal scheduled for next month. The competition committee has yet to decide whether or not wins in tag team action would qualify a competitor for the match. One insider pointed out the case of Bruiser Brody who was not won in singles competition yet but has been victorious in tag team action. Obviously, the front office would want someone with the drawing ability of Brody to be in the match but as it now stands, he would not be invited to compete . . . Up next, Ring of Legends heads into Poughkeepsie, NY for a solid card at the Mid-Hudson Civic Centre headlined by Lou Thesz meeting Cowboy Bob Orton and Buddy Rogers stepping into the ring with Hacksaw Jim Duggan.
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Post by bookerbill on Jan 26, 2011 5:50:47 GMT -5
Card 4: Poughkeepsie, NY - Mid-Hudson Civic Centre, January 26, 2011
Match 1: Rob Van Dam w/Bill Alfonso v. Nigel McGuinness The fans are all over Alfonso and his whistle blowing. McGuinness dominates the early action with a classic mat attach eventually catching Van Dam in a LONDON DUNGEON but he cannot get the win (R8/P1). McGuinness connects with a JAWBREAKER LARIAT for a 1 count (R6/P2). Van Dam is able to catch McGuinness with a knee to the chest in the corner but when Van Dam goes for a deathjump attack, McGuinness rolls clear and Van Dam crashes to the mat. McGuinness hooks the leg for a 2 count (R6/P3). The crowd thought it was over! Van Dam regains control, dragging McGuinness to the floor and whipping him into the ring post. Van Dam takes out the referee with a deathjump smash but the official recovers almost immediately and awards Van Dam his first pin attempt after Rolling Thunder (R9/P3). McGuinness is in trouble and a wisely bails to the floor after a second Rolling Thunder. McGuinness drags Van Dam to ringside and whips him shoulder first into the ring post. Suddenly the bell sounds and McGuinness has been disqualified at 11:16. The fans cannot believe it and Alfonso quickly leads Van Dam from ringside with a cheap victory. **
Match 2: Jimmy Snuka & Bruiser Brody v. Mad Dog & Butcher Vachon Brody clears the ring with his chain and the fans eat it up. Brody appears to be still favouring his ankle. Mad Dog Vachon takes a beating from the Superfly and Brody early on but turns things around against Brody at ringside. Butcher Vachon is in and traps Brody in a HANGMAN but Brody powers free (R8/P4). Brody is able to turn things around against Mad Dog Vachon and tags in the Superfly. Snuka takes apart Vachon in the ring and there is excellent spot where Snuka dives out of the ring onto Vachon at ringside that rocks the crowd. Snuka takes the match back inside and hits a SUPERFLY LEAP for the win at 13:01 while Brody blocks Butcher from making the save. *
Match 3: Johnny & Greg Valentine v. The Libertarian Sean Morley & Jerry Lynn Morley draws solid heat on the mic running down the fans and their political views. Lynn and Greg Valentine trade moves for a few minutes before Johnny Valentine tags in and takes control. An ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER puts Lynn down for a 1 count (R8/P3). Lynn is busted open after Valentine rams him face first into the steel rails. Lynn is finally able to tag in Morley who takes the fight to Greg Valentine including a high knee smash after rebounding Valentine off the ropes. Morley hits CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM for a 2 count (R8/P6) but Valentine is able to catch Morley mounting the corner and tosses him to the mat. Valentine eats the ring post and quickly wears the crimson mask but manages to counter Morley’s deathjump with a boot to the face. Greg Valentine tags in and downs Morley with a shoulder breaker for a 2 count (R6/P4). Lynn is able to tag in after a Morley counter and takes over the match. The action spills to the floor and Lynn rams Valentine into the steel rails by the fans busting him open as well. The referee as finally had enough and calls for the disqualification at 19:51. ** ½
Match 4: Jim Londos v. Don Muraco w/Captain Lou Albano Albano demanded this match after Londos defeated Muraco two weeks ago at the Witschi's Sports Arena. The fans are all over Muraco and Albano with a Beach Bum chant early on. This one goes back and forth with both men sticking to their strengths. Londos shows some aggression with a crotch lift and slam at ringside. Muraco is able to take over using his power advantage and Albano draws great heat when he gets a few shots in on Londos at ringside. Muraco wears down Londos with an Asiatic Spike but Londos is able to come back catching Muraco in figure four leglock (ch) and then moving to a BOSTON CRAB. Muraco powers out (R8/P3). Londos keeps Muraco on the mat for the next few minutes before the pace starts to pick up once again. Muraco is able to uses his strength to catch Londos in an over the shoulder backbreaker but Londos escapes (R8/P2). Muraco weakens Londos with another Asiatic Spike and then finishes the match with a HAWAIIAN HAMMER at 26:58 (R5/P6). **
Bill Apter hosts the Hot Seat with the Last of the Famous International Playboys. Apter tells the Playboys that they are officially the first team to be offered a spot in the upcoming World Tag Team Title Tournament on February 9th. The Playboys are thrilled and thank the fans for their support. Suddenly, Captain Lou Albano leads the Mongols to the ring and they attack the Playboys from behind. Bepo uses his chains to bloody both Brutus Beefcake & Buff Bagwell before security arrives to break things up. The Playboys need assistance leaving the ring.
Match 5: Larry Hennig v. Steve Corino These two battled to a wild time limit draw two weeks ago and promoters rushed to book them in rematch as soon as possible. Corino came to fight and dominates the match after jumping Hennig before the bell. A superkick puts Hennig down for a 1 count (R8/P4). A Victory Plex gets a 2 count (R8/P5). Corino takes things to the extreme nailing Hennig with a steel chair busting him open. Corino than attacks with the timekeeper’s bell and the referee calls for the disqualification at 24:57. Corino gloats over his fallen opponent drawing solid heat before leaving ringside as officials arrive.** ½
Match 6: Miracle and Violence Connection v. The Mongols w/Captain Lou Albano Great heat for Albano and his team as they make their way to ringside. Gordy and Williams are fired up and quickly cut off Geeto Mongol from his corner. Gordy takes the fight to the outside and rams Geeto into the rails by the fans and is disqualified at 6:14. dud.
Match 7: Hacksaw Jim Duggan v. Buddy Rogers Duggan has the fans jacked up during the introductions but it is the Nature Boy who dominates the action from the opening bell. Duggan misses a charge to the corner and hits the buckles had leading to a ½ count by Rogers (R11/P4). Duggan gets the fans on their feet when he tosses Rogers off the top of the buckles to the mat but Rogers recovers quickly and plants Duggan with a piledriver for the win (R5/P5) at 15:18. *
Match 8: Lou Thesz v. Cowboy Bob Orton w/Sir Oliver Humperdink Orton jumps Thesz before the bell and the fans are all over him. Thesz makes a quick comeback and even roughs up Orton outside the ring ramming him into the rails by the fans. Orton avoids a charge into the corner and rolls up Thesz for a 1 count (R6/P2). Orton connects with a deathjump smash before Thesz wins a brawl on the floor and downs Orton for a 2 ½ count with a GRECO-ROMAN BACKDROP (R6/P5). Thesz hits a THESZ PRESS. Humperdink cannot distract the referee who counts to 2 (R9/P6). Thesz traps Orton in a stepover toehold facelock and Orton leaves the ring. Thesz hits a Thesz Press at ringside and then takes out Humperdink with a forearm smash for good measure. With the fans roaring, Orton is counted out of the ring at 12:51. **
News and Views: Another night of hot action highlighted by the Mongols attack on the Last of the Famous International Playboys and Steve Corino’s second bloody battle with Larry Hennig. . . Bill Apter has released the names of the teams who will participate in the World Tag Team Title Tournament on February 9th. The teams are the already announced Last of the Famous International Playboys along with the Mongols, Miracle and Violence Connection, Greg & Johnny Valentine, Larry & Curt Hennig, Bruiser Brody & Jimmy Snuka, Sean Morley & Jerry Lynn and The Vachon Brothers. . . Up next, Ring of Legends goes to Worcester, MA for the next qualifying round of the World Title Tournament. The opening round matches at the Memorial Auditorium are Rob Van Dam v. Cowboy Bob Orton; Rick Rude v. Johnny Valentine, Buddy Rogers v. Dick Hutton and Antonino Rocca v. Jim Londos.
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Post by bookerbill on Feb 1, 2011 6:43:21 GMT -5
Official Rankings as of January 31st World Champion: Vacant 1. Lou Thesz 2. Mil Mascaras 3. Antonino Rocca 4. Curt Hennig 5. Dick Hutton 6. Mad Dog Vachon 7. Larry Hennig 8. Buddy Rogers 9. Rob Van Dam 10. Harley Race
World Tag Team Champions: Vacant 1. Jimmy Snuka & Bruiser Brody 2. Johnny & Greg Valentine 3. Jerry Lynn & Sean Morley 4. Larry & Curt Hennig 5. The Last of the Famous International Playboys
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Post by bookerbill on Feb 2, 2011 6:28:38 GMT -5
Card 5: Worcester, MA – Memorial Auditorium, February 2, 2011
Ring of Legends World Title Tournament Qualification Tournament
Match 1: Rob Van Dam w/Bill Alfonso v. Cowboy Bob Orton w/Sir Oliver Humperdink The fans are all over Alfonso and his whistle blowing at ringside. Under the direction of Humperdink, Orton dominates the opening minutes of the match not allowing Van Dam to use his agility. Mr. Wednesday Night turns thing around winning a brawl on the floor and then hitting a FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH for a 2 count (R9/P5). Van Dam lights up ringside with a leg drop across the guardrail and then picks up a 1 count with a standing moonsault (R8/P4). A monkey flip leads to a body scissors cradle but Orton just gets his shoulder up in time (R6/P5). Orton is in trouble. Alfonso tosses Van Dam a chair and Van Dam executes the Van Dminator. Orton is busted open but manages to make a comeback with a vertical suplex. Orton has nothing left and bails to the floor after a body scissors cradle. Van Dam mounts the corner and flips onto Orton and Humberdink at ringside. The crowd explodes! Van Dam crawls back into the ring to beat the 10 count but Orton can not and is counted out of the ring at 22:13. The action does not end there as Van Dam goes back after Orton at ringside but Humperdink cracks Van Dam with his staff leaving him dazed at ringside.***
Match 2: Johnny Valentine v. Rick Rude w/Sir Oliver Humperdink Rude draws fantastic heat while showing the fans in Worcester what a real man looks like. Rude looks impressive early on with a series of suplexes and power moves. Valentine catches Rude with a tackle in the corner followed by a forearm bludgeon and ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER for a near fall (R5/P2). Valentine traps Rude in the ropes and hammers away while the crowd roars in approval. ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER for a 2 count (R5/P3). Valentine mounts the corner for cross body block for a 1 count (R9/P4) and then finishes Rude with another ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER at 11:24 (R5/P5). Humperdink is all over the referee after the bell telling the official that Rude kicked out of the cover but the decision stands and Valentine is onto the next round * ½
Match 3: Buddy Rogers v. Dick Hutton Rogers struts in the ring and the fans boo him out of the building. The action is fast paced from the outset with both men exchanging counters leading to a Rogers jumping knee smash and 1 count (R7/P3). Rogers forces Hutton to the floor and following him out starting a wild brawl. Hutton comes out on top and when the action returns to the ring, Hutton traps Rogers in an ABDOMINAL STRETCH. Rogers has no counter and the Nature Boy is eliminated at 5:57 (R2/P2). The fans are stunned and give Hutton a huge ovation as he is announced the winner. *
Match 4: Antonino Rocca v. Jim Londos These competitors are two of the most popular in the history of the sport and are warmly received by the fans. A handshake starts the action and Rocca takes Londos down early on and tries for the win with a figure four leglock (ch) but Londos is able to reverse it (R9/P1). Londos survives two ARGENTINIAN BACKBREAKERS (R10/P4) (R11/P5) and kicks out after a flying body head scissors (R10/P4). Flying dropkicks sends Londos to the floor and Rocca comes out after him and the two men exchange forearms at ringside. Rocca maintains control and another series of flying dropkicks put Londos down for the three count at 8:02 ** ½
Bill Apter hosts the Hot Seat with Steve Corino who promotes himself as the King of Old School telling the fans Larry Hennig got a lesson in “old school” wrestling and anytime he wants another, Corino would be happy to assist.
Match 5: Rob Van Dam w/Bill Alfonso v. Johnny Valentine Alfonso gets the fans going with his banter and whistle blowing at ringside. The straight ahead style of Valentine sets the tone early on and Valentine scores the first pin attempt with an ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER (R10/P2) and immediately follows with another for a 1 ½ count (R7/P3). Van Dam kicks out after a third ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER (R8/P4) and Valentine continues to dominate the action with forearms and elbows. The action goes to the floor but Valentine maintains control and hits another ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER for the win at 8:28 (R3/P5).**
Match 6: Dick Hutton v. Antonino Rocca Handshake starts the action after both men are received warmly by the fans. Rocca uses his speed to take control and flying dropkicks to send Hutton to the floor. Hutton rolls back into the ring but Rocca is ready and ends it quickly with an ARGENTINIAN BACKBREAKER at 2:36 (R4/P6). dud.
Match 7: Miracle Violence Connection v. Mad Dog & Butcher Vachon The fans were on the edge of their seats as the teams were introduced. No one expected this one to be pretty and both teams make quick tags until Mad Dog bites Steve Williams leading to a 2 count (R3/P2). Terry Gordy settles things down against Mad Dog using his power to take control to the match. The action goes to the floor and Gordy runs Vachon face first into the rails and the referee calls for the disqualification at 6:47. Gordy is not pleased and while he argues with the official, the Vachons jump their opponents and all four men brawl to the back. *
Match 8: Johnny Valentine v. Antonino Rocca The fans are solidly behind Rocca from the opening bell. Rocca is able to use his agility to keep Valentine off balance early on. Twice Valentine goes to the floor but Rocca refuses to be baited to going outside. Rocca is able to catch a frustrated Valentine in an ARGENTINIAN BACKBREAKER for the win at 5:39 (R5/P5). dud
News and Views: Due to the weather the arena is only half full tonight and several competitors including Cowboy Bob Orton and Rick Rude arrive at the arena just shortly before bell time. Many of the fans are invited down to ringside from the stands . . . Antonino Rocca joins Lou Thesz and Mil Mascaras as the finalist in the Ring of Legends World Title Tournament that will take place in two weeks time at Madison Square Garden. The final competitor will be the winner of the “Win To Get In Battle Royal” next week in Landover MD . . . Speaking of next week’s card, the Ring of Legends World Tag Team Title Tournament gets underway with the following opening round matches: Jimmy Snuka & Bruiser Brody v. Mongols; Curt & Larry Hennig v. The Last of the Famous International Playboys; Greg & Johnny Valentine v. Miracle & Violence Connection; Jerry Lynn & Sean Morley v. Mad Dog & Butcher Vachon. The final two rounds of the tournament will take place the following week at Madison Square Garden . . . Dave Meltzer is reporting that Ring of Legends will sanction a second singles title and that a formal announcement will be made prior to the big MSG show in two weeks.
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Post by bookerbill on Feb 9, 2011 6:38:02 GMT -5
Card 6: Landover, MD – Capital Centre, February 9, 2011
Match 1: Angelo Mosca v. One Man Gang w/Sir Oliver Humperdink No one expected a scientific classic when these two brawlers stepped into the ring. Mosca is able to catch Gang charging into the corner with an elbow to the face and takes control with repeated stomps followed by a running slingshot against the buckles. The action spills to the floor and Gang rams Mosca into the steel ring post shoulder first and the referee quickly calls for the disqualification at 4:35. The crowd is not pleased with the decision and Gang is furious with Humperdink for not distracting the referee and takes his frustrations out on Mosca with a few more clubbing forearms at ringside. Dud.
Match 2: John Pesek v. Bobo Brazil The ovation for Brazil blows the roof off the area. Interesting contrast in styles as the action starts. Pesek takes control on the mat and tries for the early win with a pair of DOUBLE WRISTLOCKS that Brazil escapes (R10/P1) (R8/P2). The action spills in and out of the ring and Pesek continues to dominate with a solid ground attack. A TIGER MAN TOE HOLD has Brazil in trouble but he manages to kick Pesek off (R7/P3). Brazil is finally able to get something going when he catches Pesek with a shoulder tackle after being sent into the ropes which leads to a Bobo body slam and COCO BUTT for a 1 count (R7/P3). Brazil follows with a second COCO BUTT for and Pesek just gets his shoulder up (R5/P4). Brazil controls with a mixture of brawling and some mat holds picking up another near fall after a Bobo body slam (R8/P5). Brazil hits another COCO BUTT and has his first win in Ring of Legends at 16:47 (R6/P6). *** ½
Match 3: Nigel McGuinness v. Ed “Strangler” Lewis Both men are very focused during the introductions and do not acknowledge the crowd. Lewis is able to catch McGuinness with a knee to the chest in the corner and then sends McGuinness into the ropes. Both men go for a clothesline and crash to the mat. McGuinness recovers first and traps Lewis in LONDON DUNGEON but cannot get the early win (R9/P2). McGuinness applies the hold again but Lewis’ leg is on the ropes (R6/P3). Lewis is able to uses his power to gain the advantage. McGuinness is nearly counted out of the ring after Lewis rams him into the ring steps at ringside. Back in the ring, McGuinness survives the STRANGLER’S HEADLOCK (R9/P4). Lewis tosses his opponent to the floor and when McGuinness crawls back in Lewis attacks with another STRANGLER’S HEADLOCK but McGuinness elbows free (R9/P5). Lewis rams McGuinness face first into the steel rails at ringside busting McGuinness open. The referee lets the action continue and McGuinness grabs the ropes to break up another STRANGLER’S HEADLOCK (R7/P6). A bloody McGuinness gets the best of Lewis in a brawl at ringside and the crowd is roaring as McGuinness executes Tower of London and covers Lewis. McGuinness can only get a 2 count (R7/P4). McGuinness takes over but Lewis catches him with a knee to the chest in the corner. Lewis whips McGuinness into the corner but McGuinness catches him with an elbow to the face and then hits a JAWBREAKER LARIAT for a 1 count (R9/P5). McGuinness cannot believe Lewis kicked out so quickly and fans certainly thought it was over. The crowd is roaring as McGuinness applies LONDON DUNGEON and this time Lewis cannot escape (R4/P6) at 23:25. Huge win for McGuiness as he qualifies for the battle royal later on tonight.**** ½
World Tag Team Title Tournament – Quarterfinals
Match 4: Bruiser Brody & Jimmy Snuka v. Mongols w/Captain Lou Albano These two teams main evented the card at Witschi's Sports Arena one month ago and the team of Snuka and Brody came away with a dominating victory. Brody hits the ring with his chain swinging and the crowd is ready for a brawl. Brody trades blows with Geeto Mongol and a one handed body slam leads for a near fall (R4/P3). Brody plants Geeto with a piledriver for a 1 count (R9/P4) and Snuka tags in with a SUPERFLY LEAP (3) but Bepo makes the save. With the crowd roaring, Snuka mounts the corner for a second SUPERFLY LEAP but once again Geeto jumps in and starts brawling with Snuka and Brody. Brody tags in and takes Geeto to the floor ramming the Mongol’s face into the ring rails. The referee calls for the disqualification at 6:57 and the fans cannot believe it. Albano and his men scramble away from the ring as quickly as possible and move on in the tournament. Snuka and Brody chase the referee from ringside. * ½
Lou Thesz is the guest on the Hot Seat with Bill Apter but is interrupted by Angelo Mosca who is still upset over what he felt was a questionable three count in his match with Thesz last month. Apter points out to Mosca that his shoulders were clearly down for the three count and Mosca grabs Apter but Thesz shoves Mosca to the mat and tells him if he wants a rematch, he can have it. Best of three falls at the Philadelphia Arena in two weeks!
Match 5: Curt Hennig & Larry Hennig v. The Last of the International Playboys The Playboys pose for the ladies at ringside on their way to the ring. Curt Hennig starts in against Brutus Beefcake and stuns Beefcake with a rolling neck snap for a quick three count at 2:53. (dud)
Match 6: Johnny & Greg Valentine v. Miracle & Violence Connection Four of the toughest competitors in the federation squared off in the third quarterfinal match. The Valentines have yet to be defeated in Ring of Legends. The action is back and forth from the opening bell. Greg Valentine blocks a backdrop with a piledriver and traps Williams in a FIGURE FOUR LEGLOCK but Williams powers out (R8/P4). Johnny Valentine is in and tosses Williams to the floor. Williams drags Valentine out to the floor and rams him into the ring post. Williams is disqualified at 13:42. The fans were hoping for so much more out this two teams and voice their displeasure with the result. (dud)
Match 7: The Libertarian Sean Morley & Jerry Lynn v. Mad Dog & Butcher Vachon One more spot remains in the Tag Team Title Tournament and the action unfolds at a quick pace after Morley addresses the crowd before the match drawing heat with his political views. It is back and forth with Lynn and Morley controlling the flow. Butcher Vachon stuns the fans with a cross body block deathjump on Lynn for a 1 count (R9/P3). Vachon follows up with a HANGMAN but Lynn escapes (R7/P5). Morley is able to tag in and turns things around against Mad Dog Vachon. Later, Butcher Vachon overpowers Morley and traps him in a HANGMAN but Morley his able to hook the ropes to keep the match alive (R7/P5). The Vachon’s continue to dominate the action and cut off Lynn from this corner. Lynn comes back at ringside, whipping Mad Dog Vachon into the ring post busting him open. Butcher Vachon cuts the comeback off against Morley and tries for the win with another HANGMAN but Morley is again able to grab the ropes (R7/P6). Morley counters Mad Dog Vachon’s figure four leglock (ch) and Lynn is back in. The action goes to the floor and Vachon rams Lynn into the ring rails busting him open. The bell sounds and Vachon has been disqualified at 28:58. The Vachon’s batter their opponents after the bell and leave them dazed in the ring. Lynn is a bloody mess. ***
Match 8: Win to Get In Battle Royal – Nigel McGuinness, Angelo Mosca, Bobo Brazil, Dick Hutton, Don Muraco, Steve Williams, Larry Hennig, Curt Hennig, Johnny Valentine, Jim Londos, Harley Race, Mad Dog Vachon, Buddy Rogers, Jimmy Snuka, Rob Van Dam, Hacksaw Jim Duggan and Terry Gordy It is bedlam at the opening bell with fists flying everywhere. Bobo Brazil and Larry Hennig battle along the ropes and Steve Williams comes up from behind and nearly eliminates Hennig. In the meantime, Curt Hennig nearly has Harley Race eliminated on the other side of the ring. Mad Dog Vachon has a bandaged over his cut which is still bleeding from the previous match as he works over Nigel McGuinness in the corner and McGuinness is the first elimination. A Buddy Rogers dropkick forces Terry Gordy to roll to the floor and Rogers following him outside. Gordy gets the best of the Nature Boy at ringside and when they return to the ring, Gordy uses a running lariat to eliminate Rogers from the match. Jim Londos has Angelo Mosca tied up when Hacksaw Jim Duggan comes up from behind and dumps both men over the ropes. Mosca hangs on but Londos cannot and is the third man eliminated from the match. Curt and Larry Hennig go a double clothesline on Johnny Valentine but Valentine turns things around and clotheslines both Hennigs to the mat. Valentine then tries to eliminate Larry Hennig but Dick Hutton arrives and dumps both men over the ropes. Valentine hits the apron and Hennig hits the floor. When Valentine steps back into the ring, Harley Race is all over him. Both men nearly eliminate one another until Angelo Mosca arrives and send both men over the ropes to the floor. Race and Valentine brawl their way to the dressing room area. Mosca then moves onto a lengthy battle with Rob Van Dam both in and out of the ring. Van Dam connects with single leg kick that sends Mosca over the ropes to the floor. Ten men remain. Hacksaw Duggan downs Muraco with a Tough Guy Clothesline but cannot get him over the ropes. Rob Van Dam executes a moonsault onto Jimmy Snuka at ringside the electrifies the fans. Dick Hutton has control of Mad Dog Vachon but Vachon is able to turn things around and backdrops Hutton from the match. Terry Gordy attacks Vachon but Mad Dog goes blow for blow with Gordy in the middle of the ring. Jimmy Snuka has recovered and his back in the action suplexing Curt Hennig in the middle of the ring. The Superfly tosses Hennig to the floor. Steve Williams is in an intense struggle with Don Muraco that goes back and forth with both men nearly going out. Williams ends Muraco’s night with backdrop. Rob Van Dam ducks Duggan’s clothesline and Duggan nails Jimmy Snuka sending him over the ropes to the floor. Steve Williams overpowers Rob Van Dam after Williams and Gordy team up for a double elbow smash on Van Dam. Williams tosses Van Dam to the floor. Five men are remaining and the competitors are spent. Hacksaw Jim Duggan and Steve Williams exchange blows in and out of the ring. Bobo Brazil backdrops Mad Dog Vachon over the corner and to the floor. Vachon needs assistance getting to his feet. Williams and Gordy jump Brazil and are joined by Duggan making it three on one. The fans turn on Williams, Gordy & Duggan but suddenly Sir Oliver Humperdink is at ringside. Rick Rude, Cowboy Bob Orton and One Man Gang hit the ring and beat down Williams, Gordy & Duggan. Brazil bails to ringside as Orton takes out Duggan with a SUPERPLEX and a RUDE AWAKING stuns Gordy. Gang crushes Williams with a 747. The House of Humperdink then proceeds to toss Williams, Duggan & Gordy over the ropes to the floor drawing huge heat. Officials usher the House of Humperdink out of the ring as Brazil crawls back into the ring. With Duggan, Gordy & Williams laid out at ringside, Brazil is declared the winner at 30:28. The fans are stunned as Brazil moves onto the round robin World Title Tournament next week.***
News and Views: Next weeks huge card at Madison Square Garden is set with Bobo Brazil earning the final spot in the World Title Tournament after a highly controversial ending to tonight’s main event. Brazil will compete against Lou Thesz, Mil Mascaras and Antonino Rocca in a round robin tournament with points be awarded for victories. The competitor after three rounds with the most points will be the first Ring of Legends World Champion . . . The semi-finals of the World Tag Team Title Tournament are also set with the Mongols facing the Valentines in one bracket and the Hennigs facing the team of Sean Morley and Jerry Lynn in the other . . . Bill Apter has confirmed that Ring of Legends will sanction another singles title. A 16 man The United States Title single elimination Tournament will get under way on February 23 with one match taking place per week until a winner is determined. Speaking of February 23th, the card at the Philadelphia Arena is starting to stack up. Steve Williams, Hacksaw Jim Duggan & Terry Gordy will get there first chance at payback when they face the House of Humperdink in 6 man tag team action. As well, Lou Thesz squares off against Angelo Mosca in a special 2 out of 3 challenge match and Larry Hennig meets Steve Corino in what promises to be another wild battle.
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Post by bookerbill on Feb 16, 2011 6:48:17 GMT -5
Card 7: New York, NY – Madison Square Garden, February 16, 2011
World Title Tournament – Round One
Gary Michael Cappetta explains the rules of the tournament. Each competitor will face the other in three rounds of action. 20 points will be awarded for a pinfall or submission win, 15 points for a count out win, 10 points for a disqualification win and 5 points will be awarded for draw. No points will be awarded for a loss.
Match 1: Lou Thesz v. Bobo Brazil Thesz is the heavy favorite to win the Title and Brazil is the long shot especially after his performance in the qualification tournament and his controversial qualification win in last week’s battle royal. Both men receive a monster pop from the fans and shake hands at the bell. Thesz goes into the ropes in the opening seconds and stuns Brazil with a cross body block for a 1 count (R6/P1). Thesz sends Brazil to the floor and comes out after him with a double hammer off the ropes but Brazil counters with a bear hug to turn things around. The action returns to the floor and Brazil Irish whips Thesz into the ring rails drawing some heat from ringside. The action is anything but clean with both men trading blows at ringside and Brazil choking Thesz on the ropes drawing more heat. Thesz connects with a side salto for a 1 count (R8/P2) and then catches Brazil with a THESZ PRESS to pick up 20 points at 4:50 (R5/P5). Both men shake hands after the bell so it appears Thesz has forgiven Brazil for his questionable tactics during the match. The fans are left wondering will anyone be able to stop Thesz? * ½
Match 2: Mil Mascaras v. Antonino Rocca Both men receive a solid ovation from ringside during introductions and a handshake starts the match off for the second straight bout. Rocca takes control early on and forces Mascaras to ringside. Rocca goes to the air and leaps onto Mascaras’ shoulders at ringside but Mascaras counters and dumps Rocca onto the arena floor in a sick looking spot! The crowd is buzzing after the action on the floor. Back inside, Mascaras hits a FLYING BODYPRESS for a 1 count (R2/P6). Mascaras is in complete control and soon Rocca has to bail to ringside to get break but Mascaras dives over the ropes onto Rocca who moves aside and Mascaras crashes into the ring rails in the second huge spot of the match. Rocca is able to capitalize and takes over the action. Mascaras escapes an ARGENTINIAN BACKBREAKER (R10/P3) and Rocca takes his masked opponent to the floor. Rocca rams Mascaras head first into the steel rails and the referee calls for the bell disqualifying Rocca at 10:26. The fans hate the call but Mascaras has 15 points. **
Match 3: Mongols w/Captain Lou Albano v. Larry & Curt Hennig The fans are all over Albano and his team as they make their way to the ring. Curt Hennig starts in against Bepo Mongol and uses his quickness to backdrop the Mongol to the floor. Hennig comes outside and executes a noggin knocker with Albano and Bepo and crowd explodes. Larry tags in and drops Bepo with THE AXE for a 1 count (R9/P5). The Hennig try to double up on Bepo but the Mongols are able to tag out. The action evens out with both teams making quick tags. Curt Hennig catches Bepo with a standing dropkick for a 2 count (R7/P5). The Hennigs work over Bepo but he is able to counter a double clothesline with one of his own taking out both Hennigs. Geeto tags in and downs Larry Hennig with a lunging double throat chop for a 1 count (R7/P3). Geeto follows with a TOP ROPE KNEE DROP but Hennig kicks out at 2 (R7/P5). Bepo tags in and works over Larry Hennig with his chains while the referee is distracted by Geeto. Bepo covers Hennig for a 2 count (R8/P5). Bepo takes Hennig to the floor and rams him head first into the rails while Albano causes a distraction. Hennig is a bloody mess as the action returns to the ring. The Mongols double beat down Hennig earning a warning from the referee. Geeto mounts the corner for a TOP ROPE KNEE DROP. Bepo ties up Curt Hennig and Geeto covers Larry Hennig for the three count at 25:55 and the Mongols are the first finalists in the Tag Team Title Tournament. ***
Match 4: “The Libertarian” Sean Morley & Jerry Lynn v. Johnny & Greg Valentine Morley is on the mic telling the fans they are being brain washed by the government and that they should stop acting like lemmings. The fans are not pleased and fill the ring with trash. Lynn jumps Greg Valentine before the bell but the advantage is only short lived. Both teams make defensive tags and the Valentines seem to be the aggressors. Valentine drops Lynn with an ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER at ringside and Lynn is nearly counted out of the ring. Lynn is able to catch Johnny Valentine climbing the corner and tosses Valentine to mat. Morley is in with CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM for a 2 count (R6/P2). Valentine kicks out of a fisherman’s suplex (R7/P2) and a deathjump cross body block (R6/P3). Lynn is back in and plants Valentine with a CRADLE PILEDRIVER. Morley blocks Greg Valentine from making the save but Johnny Valentines kicks out (R8/P5). Lynn hits a second CRADLE PILEDRIVER and this time Greg saves his father from being pinned. Lynn is all over Valentine at ringside and busts Valentine open ramming him into the ring post. Lynn hits a moonsault into Valentine at ringside the crowd explodes. Valentine crawls back into the ring at the count of 8 and is able to make defensive tag after a bulldog leaves him too close to his corner. Greg Valentine battles Lynn and then Morley who turns things around whipping Valentine into the ring post busting him open. Johnny Valentine is back in against Lynn and Valentine clocks Lynn with a steel chair at ringside busting him open. Lynn is nearly counted out of the ring but stumbles under the ropes to keep the action going. Valentine takes him to the floor and drops him with a forearm hammer. Lynn is able to crawl back under the ropes and Valentine finishes Lynn with an ATOMIC SKULLCRUSHER. 1, 2, bell! The time limit has expired at 30:00. Both teams are eliminated from the tournament. *****
The Mongols return to the ring with Captain Lou Albano and are presented with the Ring of Legends World Tag Team Titles. Suddenly, the Last of the Famous International Playboys hit the ring and attack the new champions chasing them for the ring and back to the dressing room.
Bill Apter hosts the Hot Seat with Guests Steve Williams, Terry Gordy & Hacksaw Jim Duggan who come out to a great pop. Williams tells Apter that when they are not kicking someone else’s ass the three of them were kicking each others asses. All that is in the past and that Humperdink has made a big mistake because now the three of them have been united by a common enemy. Gordy tells us that he could not find two tougher men to have his back and Humperdink and anyone who stands with him are in for a world of hurt. Duggan give a Hooooo out to the crowd and tells the fans that House of Humperdink think they are tough guys but they are going to show Gang, Orton and Rude what tough guys are all about.
Match 5: Bobo Brazil v. Mil Mascaras Both men had grueling first round matches. A handshake starts the action. Brazil needs a win to keep himself alive in the tournament but struggles early on and Mascaras has him tied up with an octopus hold. Brazil powers free (R10/P3). Mascaras tosses Brazil to the floor but Brazil drags Mascaras to the floor and whips him into the ring post drawing heat from the fans and earning a disqualification at 2:26. Mascaras has 30 points heading into the final round. (dud)
Match 6: Lou Thesz v. Antonino Rocca Another great ovation from the fans for these two superstars. Thesz had a much easier first found match than Rocca is once again the favorite to come out on top. The bout opens once again with a handshake. Thesz controls the action early on keeping the match at a slow pace including a series of bear hugs (ch). Rocca finally gets an opening countering a backdrop with a piledriver. Thesz is on the defensive and Rocca traps him in an ARGENTINIAN BACKBREAKER but Thesz is able to hook his foot in the ropes for the break (R6/P5). Rocca goes back to the ARGENTINIAN BACKBREAKER but Thesz is able to escape (R9/P6). Rocca uses flying head scissors to set up a victory roll and gets the three count (R5/P5) at 11:48! Both men shake hands and Thesz leaves the ring allowing Rocca to celebrate his huge win. Thesz and Rocca are now tied at 20 points each after two rounds. * ½
Match 7: Bobo Brazil v. Antonino Rocca With the sudden end to the World Tag Team Title Tournament, Rocca has no time to rest before being called back to the ring for his final match. A handshake starts the match and Brazil uses his power to take over but Rocca counters and catches Brazil in a victory roll for a near fall (R7/P4). Brazil regains controls and keeps the action on the mat where he can use his power to wear down Rocca. The match turns and Rocca counters the mat attack with a crushing body scissors and Brazil has no answer and submits at 5:12. (R5/P5). Brazil fails to earn any points in the tournament while Rocca finishes with 40 points. Brazil shows grace in losing raising Rocca’s hand. (dud)
Match 8: Mil Mascaras v. Lou Thesz The crowd is electric during the introductions as they are about to see history made in the Garden. With Rocca’s win in the last match, Thesz is mathematically eliminated from winning the tournament. If Mascaras wins, he is the World Champion. Otherwise, the Ring of Legends World Title will be presented to Antonino Rocca. A handshake is the perfect way to start the match. Both men go for clothesline and crash to the mat. Mascaras is up first and traps Thesz in a bow and arrow but Thesz is able to power out (R7/P4). Mascaras can taste victory and quickly scales the buckles for a FLYING CROSSBODY but Thesz kicks out (R10/P6). Mascaras will not be denied and climbs the corner for another FLYING CROSSBODY and gets the three count at 3:04. (R7/P7). * ½
Mil Mascaras is presented with the Ring of Legends World Title and the fans give him a long ovation.
News and Views: What a night of action. Mil Mascaras went undefeated in the World Title Tournament and is the first Ring of Legends World Champion. He will not have long to celebrate his title win however as his first defense will be next week against the man who came second in the tournament Antonino Rocca. Their match tonight featured two huge spots and was cut short by controversial disqualification decision. The rematch promises to be a classic. The Mongols are the new World Tag Team Champions as they were the only team to reach the finals. The new champions were promptly attacked by the Last of Famous International Playboys as payback for the Mongols January 26th attack on the Playboys. These two teams have some unfinished business that will have to be resolved in the coming weeks . . . Speaking of unfinished business, the teams of the Valentines and the tandem of Sean Morley & Jerry Lynn put on the first five star match of the year and promoters are scrambling to ink another battle between these four men as soon as possible. Next week, the ROL returns to Philadelphia this time at the Philadelphia Arena for a card featuring the already mentioned World Title Match between new champion Mil Mascaras and Antonino Rocca in the main event. Also signed, Steve Williams, Terry Gordy & Hacksaw Jim Duggan against the House of Humperdink, Steve Corino v. Larry Hennig along with Lou Thesz v. Angelo Mosca in a best of three falls challenge match. In addition, the United State Title Tournament gets underway with Buddy Rogers taking on Superfly Jimmy Snuka.
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Post by bookerbill on Feb 23, 2011 6:12:43 GMT -5
Card 8: Philadelphia, PA – Arena, February 23, 2011
Match 1: Mad Dog & Butcher Vachon v. Les Thatcher & Nigel McGuinness The crowd gives Thatcher and McGuinness a warm reception and appears to be really behind McGuinness tonight likely based on his time spent in the area on the indy circuit. The Vachons control the early action and manage to cut off McGuinness from his corner. Mad Dog puts McGuinness down for a 1 ½ count with an airplane spin (R6/P3) before planting McGuinness with a PILEDRIVER for the win (R3/P6) at 9:39 much to the displeasure of the crowd. dud
Match 2: Brutus Beefcake v. Bepo Mongol w/Captain Lou Albano Great heat for Albano and the co-holder of the Ring of Legends Tag Team Championship as they come to ringside. Mongol sets the early pace using a series of chokes and power moves to punish Beefcake. A Mongolian Drop has Beefcake reeling but Beefcake is able to use his agility to turn things around. A studded armband smash downs Mongol for a 1 count (R8/P4). The Tag Team Champion brutalizes Beefcake on the floor and Beefcake is busted open after being rammed into the steel rails at ringside. Back inside, Beefcake goes into the ropes and both men go for a clothesline and crash together at center ring. Beefcake recovers first and connects with a FLYING KNEE SMASH but Albano interferes Beefcake is fired up and connects with a deathjump smash and then mounts the corner for a flying deathjump crossbody. Geeto Mongol arrives in the ring and Beefcake is ready executing a noggin knocker on the Mongols. Beefcake covers Bepo but the Mongol kicks out at the last second (R7/P6). Buff Bagwell arrives at ringside and brawls with Geeto. Beefcake takes Bepo to ringside and it is complete bedlam. Bepo eats the ringside table and Beefcake tosses the Mongol back inside. Bagwell takes out Albano with a body slam as Beefcake downs Mongol with a FLYING KNEE SMASH for the three count at 21:01 (R6/P8). ***
Match 3: Greg & Johnny Valentine v. Jerry Lynn & “The Libertarian” Sean Morley Morley is on the mic before the match and runs down Philadelphia staying that the city knows nothing or brotherly love and has forgotten what Liberty means. The fans are not pleased. Morley starts off against Johnny Valentine before Greg Valentine quickly tags into the action and drops Morley with a falling elbow hammer for the shocking three count at 3:15 (R3/P4). The crowd explodes and Morley is stunned. dud
Match 4: Best of Three Falls Match: Lou Thesz v. Angelo Mosca Mosca has been complaining to everyone that he actually kicked out of the cover by Thesz in their match at the Spectrum back on January 5th and Thesz suggested on the Hotseat two weeks ago that the issue be settled in a best of three falls match. Thesz receives a solid ovation as he comes to the ring. Thesz offers a handshake and Mosca will have no part of it drawing great heat. Mosca tries a power attack but Thesz has all the counters early on and puts Mosca down for a ½ count with dropkicks (R11/P3) and follows with back to back THESZ PRESSES to take the first fall (R9/P6)/(R4/P7) at 4:40. Thesz picks up right were he left off at the start of the second fall and dominates Mosca. An airplane spin sets up a GRECO-ROMAN BACKDROP for the win (R6/P9) at 7:46. * ½
Don Muraco and his manager Captain Lou Albano are on the Hot Seat with Bill Apter. Muraco starts to run down Jim Londos and Londos responds by coming out to confront Muraco and Albano but it is a trap as World Tag Team Champions The Mongols storm the ring and attack Londos. Muraco ends the attack with a falling face slam as the Last of the International Playboys arrive and battle the Tag Team Champions at ringside. Security arrives and Albano leads his men away from ringside.
Match 5: Larry Hennig v. Steve Corino The previous encounters between these two have been bloody and intense and the Philadelphia crowd was ready for some more of the same. The crowd is very intense from the opening of the match and the excitement only picks up when Corino uses a chair on Hennig’s leg and then attacks with a figure four leg lock (ch). Hennig is able to power out (R10/P4). Corino dominates the action in the ring and then chokes out Hennig with a cord he found under the ring. Both men end up brawling on the floor and Corino drops Hennig with a chair shot that busts Hennig open and the referee finally calls for the disqualification at 9:36. Corino gets a few more shots in before Curt Hennig arrives to come to his father’s aid.**
Match 6: United States Title Tournament – Buddy Rogers v. Jimmy Snuka Snuka is received by a huge pop as he comes to the ring. Rogers struts before the bell drawing a great reaction from ringside. With the crowd already fired up from the previous match, this one could be a classic. Both men counter a series of Irish whips into the corner before Snuka strikes with a piledriver for a ½ count (R8/P1). Snuka mounts the corner but Rogers recovers and tosses the Superfly to the mat. Rogers takes the action to the floor but Snuka rams the Nature Boy shoulder first into the ring post and then tosses Rogers back inside. SUPERFLY LEAP (5). 1, 2, shoulder up! (R8/P7). The fans cannot believe it. Snuka is clearly frustrated and Rogers takes advantage turning things around with a series of forearm smashes and headlocks. A piledriver gives Rogers a 1 count (R8/P3). The action goes to the floor and Rogers nails Superfly in the leg with a chair shot drawing great heat from ringside. Moments later, Rogers has Snuka trapped in the ropes and attacks Snuka’s leg and knee with kicks. The referee steps in but Rogers shoves the official to the mat and goes back to work on his helpless opponent. The referee disqualifies Rogers at 14:20. Officials fill the ring to break things up and Snuka appears to be favouring his leg when he makes his way back to the dressing room. **
Match 7: House of Humperdink w/Sir Oliver Humperdink v. Miracle and Violence Connection and Hacksaw Duggan Great heat for Humperdink and his team as they come to ringside. Steve Williams takes the fight to Rick Rude until both teams make tags. Hacksaw Duggan is in against the One Man Gang with a tackle in the corner that drops the big man to the mat. Duggan applies a sloppy figure four leg lock (ch) that Gang breaks free of (R8/P3). Terry Gordy is in with an ORIENTAL SPIKE that Gang punches free from (R8/P4). Williams and Duggan keep Gang on the defensive until Gang is able to block a double forearm smash. It is Cowboy Bob Orton against Gordy now. Orton catches Gordy with an elbow to the face and then executes a perfect SUPERPLEX for a 1 count (R10/P4). Rude takes Gordy to the floor and hits a double falling axehandle from the top of the buckles. The crowd loves the action and Gordy is able to crawl back into the ring. Williams hot tags in but then quickly misses a leg drop on Rude leading to Gang returning to the match. Gang and Duggan tear up ringside win a wild brawl and Gang gets the best of the Duggan. Gang crushes Duggan with a powerbomb (ch) and Duggan rolls to the floor. Gang is out after him but Duggan reverses a whip into the steel ring post and Gang is stunned. Gordy is in and traps Gang in an ORIENTAL SPIKE but Gang is able to punch free once again (R8/P5). Gordy mounts the corner for a deathjump smash on Gang and then drops him with a running lariat. Rude and Orton are in for the pin save starting a wild brawl. The House of Humperdink gets the best of Williams, Duggan and Gordy. Rude hits a RUDE AWAKENING on Gordy but can get only a 1 count (R12/P6). Rude hits a second RUDE AWAKENING but this time Williams saves Gordy from defeat. Orton tags in with an atomic kneedrop and makes the cover as the time limit expires at 30:00. The action continues after the bell with the House of Humperdink laying the beat down onto the faces drawing huge heat from ringside. Duggan, Williams and Gordy are left battered in the middle of the ring. **** ½
Match 8: Ring of Legends World Title Match – Mil Mascaras (ch) v. Antonino Rocca These two had best match of the World Title Tournament last card and the fans were hoping from another classic tonight but with a clean finish this time. A handshake starts the action. Both blur with speed in the opening moments bounding off the ropes. Mascaras catches Rocca with a cross body block counter for a 2 count (R3/P1). Mascaras assumes control and uses a slingshot plancha to set up a CROSSBODY ATTACK for a 2 count (R5/P2). Mascaras dives at his challenger again with a CROSSBODY ATTACK but Rocca again rolls his shoulder off the mat at 2 (R6/P3). Rocca needs to get something going and quick. He manages to catch Mascaras charging into the corner with an elbow to the chin and the momentum changes. Rocca attempt to slow the pace down but Mascaras is equal to the task. Rocca and Mascaras exchange blows on the floor and the crowd is unglued. Mascaras gains control and puts Rocca to the mat with another CROSSBODY ATTACK for a 1 ½ count (R7/P4). Rocca is finally able to slow the champion down with a crushing body scissors. Flying dropkicks send Mascaras to the outside and Rocca mounts the buckles and falls onto Mascaras at ringside. The crowd is on fire. Rocca makes a critical error by sending Mascaras into the ropes and Mascaras counters a back drop with a piledriver. Mascaras tries a different approach to victory, trapping Rocca in a bow and arrow but Rocca is able escape (R8/P5). Rocca again manages to turn things around including a single leg takedown and flying dropkicks. Mascaras is able to counter a whip into the corner with an elbow to the chest and Rocca has to take a breather at ringside. Mascaras hits a slingshot plancha onto Rocca at ringside and the crowd is on their feet. Back inside, Mascaras executes yet another CROSSBODY ATTACK. 1, 2, 3. Mascaras retains the title at 22:47. **** ½
News and Views: What a night of action including two potential match of the year candidates. The crowd intensity was off the charts throughout the night but in particular from the Hot Seat segment through the main event. Philadelphia is a Ring of Legends hot spot for sure . . . Some of the key feuds that will continue over the coming cards include The House of Humperdink v. The Miracle & Violence Connection & Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Don Muraco v. Jim Londos, Mongols v. The Last of the Famous International Playboys, Larry Hennig v. Steve Corino and Jimmy Snuka v. Buddy Rogers. Dave Meltzer is reporting that there may be some roster shake ups in the coming weeks in Ring of Legends. Meltzer has indicated Bobo Brazil as a name that might be on the move pointing out that Brazil was booked to look lucky rather than strong coming out of the win to get in battle royal and then being jobbed out to all of the other competitors in the World Title Tournament. Meltzer questioned where does Brazil go from here? Meltzer reported that Brazil was originally booked to feud with Johnny Valentine but the Valentine’s team with his son Greg has been on fire recently and appears ready for a run atop the tag team division. Another name that could be on the move is Bruiser Brody. Despite being on the competition committee, Brody has seemed to go nowhere and now that his partner Jimmy Snuka appears to set up to feud with Buddy Rogers, Brody will need to reboot. Add to that, primary opponent for Brody such as One Man Gang, Terry Gordy and Rick Rude are all tied up in major feuds . . . Up next, we head to the Fieldhouse in Hamburg, PA for a all star card headlined by the Mongols first defense of the Ring of Legends World Tag Team Titles against the undefeated father and son tandem of Johnny & Greg Valentine. In addition, the United States Title Tournament continues with Antonino Rocca facing Ed “The Strangler” Lewis.
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Post by bookerbill on Mar 1, 2011 6:24:04 GMT -5
Official Rankings World Champion: Mil Mascaras (2) 1. Antonino Rocca (3) 2. Dick Hutton (5) 3. Lou Thesz (1) 4. Mad Dog Vachon (6) 5. Larry Hennig (7) 6. Curt Hennig (4) 7. Jimmy Snuka (-) 8. Rob Van Dam (9) 9. Buddy Rogers (8) 10. Steve Williams (-)
World Tag Team Champions: Mongols (-) 1. Johnny & Greg Valentine (2) 2. Jerry Lynn & Sean Morely (3) 3. Larry & Curt Hennig (4) 4. Jimmy Snuka & Bruiser Brody (1) 5. Mad Dog & Butcher Vachon (-)
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