Pacific Coast Wrestling

[rainmakerrtv]

Merry Christmas to all from our Pacific Coast Wrestling family! As you may have noticed, there hasn't been much PCW action of late. That is because, after a busy and successful 1986, we have rewarded our roster with a December vacation in Hawaii. Our PCW wrestlers have been sunning themselves on the beaches of Waikiki before they headed home to spend Christmas with their families and loved ones. But don't worry, PCW has big plans for 1987. Continuing a tradition started in 1986, we will be kicking off the new year with an extra sized Pacific Wrestling New Years Day Special, coming from the Victoria Memorial Arena. There will be plenty of matches and interviews, featuring both PCW favorites and new talents who will be on the rise in the Pacific Coast in 1987. There will be 2 very big and exciting main events for this special :

Pacific Tag Team Title Match : British Steel (Steven Regal & Robbie Brookside) (c) vs. A Mystery Team

Pacific Heavyweight Title Match : Barry Windham (c) vs. Bret Hart

Should be an incredible show. Can't wait to see you in 1987!

 

[spaldoni]

Sounds like a great way to kick off 1987! 

[kevinmcfl]

Thanks for all the great shows in 86 and can't wait to see what you have for us in 87!

[rainmakerrtv]

Pacific Wrestling New Years Day Special from the Victoria Memorial Arena, Victoria, on ESPN / TSN, January 1^st

 

One Man Gang vs. BB Andersen

 

 

After an amazing 1986, Pacific Coast Wrestling comes back with their big, extra length New Years Day Special. There was a packed house in Victoria, with all of the dedicated PCW fans eager to see what the New Year will bring to their favorite wrestling show. The festivities kick off with a match featuring one of the big movers and shakers to arrive in PCW late last year, the One Man Gang. In not a particularly surprising turn of events, Gang was accompanied not by his usual manager , Percy Pringle, but Gary Hart, showing that the negotiations hinted at recently between the two had born fruit. Continuing the roll of unsurprising events, the big 747  annihilated the rookie Andersen, whipping him pillar to post until finally putting him out of his misery with a front layout suplex. Looks like Gary Hart International is aiming to make a big power grab in Pacific Coast Wrestling, and with the One Man Gang on their side, it will be hard to stop them.

 

Brian Pillman vs. Buddy Rose

 

 

Brian Pillman, coming off a great year in PCW, was the first one out for this match, and the fans showed their love with fervent cheers. The familiar figure of the large bearded man was once again present at ringside, showing his support and amiably accepting a high five from young Pillman. Buddy Rose was out next, backed up with all of the other members of the Playboy Club, and the bearded man heckled him from his seat. This time, it seemed to especially get under Rose's skin, and he stalked over to the bearded man and berated him from across the guardrail. This only prompted laughter from the bearded man, but when Rose reached across the guardrail and swatted the soft drink out of his hand, the man arose, enraged, and towered over Rose. The two men stared each other down until the bearded man made a grab at Rose. Rose immediately ducked behind Ed Wiskowski and Fit Finlay, and PCW security were on the bearded man in a flash. Rose demanded that the bearded man be escorted out, and the big fan glowered at Rose but quietly complied as security led him out. Rose gave a cocky grin at having gotten his way, but still had to contend with Brian Pillman. The former Cincinnati Bengal showed the fast and daring offense that made him a big favorite with the fans, keeping Rose on his toes. But the canny Playboy was still able to duck and dodge his way through the match, keeping Pillman from putting him down for good. Pillman went up to the top rope to try to hit a big move to tilt the match in his favor. But that was when the Playboy Club chose to strike. While the Sheepherders distracted the ref, Ed Wiskowski snuck up behind Pillman and shoved him hard off the top rope. Rose then grabbed Pillman and hit the Inside Out Backbreaker. This got him the one two three, which certainly didn't please the fans. Rose and the Playboy Club were all laughter and gloating as Frank Bonnema joined them in the ring.

 

Bonnema : Well, Buddy Rose, I guess you are proud of yourself for what you just did, although I don't know why.

 

Rose : Why shouldn't I be proud, Bonnema? The Playboy Club is headed to great things! We have the Sheepherders, the meanest, nastiest tag team in the world. We have the Polish Prince, who crushes everyone he faces. We have the Belfast Bruiser, the toughest man in the world. And of course, there is me, the Playboy … the smartest, savviest, handsomest wrestler in all of PCW. Everything is coming up roses … ha ha! … for the Playboy Club.

 

Bonnema : Not so fast, Buddy Rose. You can't say everything is going well for you when you just lost the Pacific Heavyweight Title to Barry Windham.

 

Rose : Only a temporary setback, Bonnema. He can enjoy his brief time taking care of my belt, but sooner or later, I will …

 

Rose is cut off as "Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers" by ZZ Top plays over the arena PA. He is initially annoyed, but his expression turns to a somewhat puzzled grin as he sees who comes out : "Crippler" Rip Oliver, who hadn't been seen in PCW in over a year. Oliver has a sour expression on his face as he enters the ring.

 

 

Rose : Rip Oliver! It has been forever. Good to see you back. I'm sure I know just why you are coming out here, and I will level with you. The Playboy Club has a pretty packed roster right now, but hey, I am sure I can find a space for you somewhere. We can find something for you to do for us. Anything for an old friend.

 

Oliver : * glowering icily at Rose * Oh, you'd like that, wouldn't you, Rose? Have me following you around, doing your dirty work for you while you get all the benefits. Well, I had enough of that garbage the first time around, and what did it get me? When Roddy Piper sent me out on my back, where were you then? Busy looking out for yourself, as usual. So I am done being your lackey. I am my own man, not one of your side boys like these idiots. (The other members of the Playboy Club bristle at this.) So I am going to give you a challenge. I am challenging you, you and you (pointing at Rose, Wiskowski and Finlay) to a match tomorrow night against me and the team of my choice. Do you have enough guts in that big belly of yours to accept it?

 

Rose : Rip, you are breaking my heart here. I am very disappointed to hear you talking like this. But since you are clearly not about to show any sense, I am going to have to make an example of you. You're on!

 

Konnan vs. Dirk Been

 

 

Tonight will be the first appearance of a lot of new faces in Pacific Coast Wrestling, although in this particular match, the face would be covered by a mask. Konnan is a muscular and athletic masked wrestler who immediately caught the eye of the fans with his easy confidence and smooth execution. He was clearly glad for the fans approval as he easily dominated Been with a series of slams and beautiful dropkicks before forcing him to give up to the Tequila Sunrise (trapped half crab). While the list of contenders in PCW is quite crowded, Konnan is definitely off to a good start.

 

Jeff Jarrett, Dan Severn & Badd Company vs. Mando, Chavo & Hector Guerrero, & ?? ??

 

 

With Missy Hyatt gone from PCW, Badd Company came out on their own, not that she has been present that much in the time leading up to her departure. Many fans were curious to see who the Guerreros' partner would be. That was revealed when Hector got on the microphone and introduced their new partner, their youngest brother and latest member of the Guerrero Clan to join the wrestling business … Eddie Guerrero!

 

 

Eddie came out and seemed to have the same irreverent manner as his brothers, but quickly proved to be a gifted high flyer, quick as a cat and eager to join in the fray. Badd Company seemed much less eager, with Diamond and Tanaka spending most of their time on the ring apron, tagging out almost as quick as they would be tagged in. With Severn and Jarrett having to hold up most of the weight on their own, the Guerreros took advantage, ultimately having Chavo sneak in a tag to youngest brother Eddie who surprised Jarrett with a top rope flying Sunset Flip to get the pinfall. Severn and Jarrett were disappointed with the result, but disappointment turned to surprise when Diamond and Tanaka ambushed them from behind by dropkicking them out of the ring, then diving out of the ring and attacking them. The two teams brawled until they were separated by security. It seems like, without Missy Hyatt's guidance, Badd Company have now turned to the dark side.

 

Interview : Frank Bonnema stand in the ring

 

Bonnema : Ladies and gentlemen, my next guests are coming off a tumultuous year here in PCW … the Hollywood Knights!

 

The crowd rains down boos on Jack Victory, Chris Candido and Al Snow make their way to the ring. The Knights, on the other hand, are all confident smiles as they join Bonnema in the ring. Strangely, they are no longer wearing their colourful gear, instead wearing trunks, tights and boots in basic black trimmed with silver.

 

 

Bonnema : Chris Candido , the Hollywood Knights seem overly sure of themselves tonight, given their current state of affairs. You've kicked out your leader, Tracy Smothers, and he is nowhere to be seen. How do you aim to come back from that?

 

Candido : Bonnema, you say leader, we say weak link! Smothers talked a good game, but in the end, all he had to offer us was the California Title, and he couldn't even hold onto that without our help. Once he lost it, his usefulness to us was at an end, so we gave him the bum's rush like the bum he is.

 

Bonnema : Jack Victory, your dissatisfaction with Tracy Smothers has been quite evident for the last while. With your attack on him and kicking him out, I take it you are taking over the leadership of the Hollywood Knights.

 

Victory : Oh, hell no! What you saw was me correcting a bad decision. You see, almost a year ago, I made one of the biggest mistakes of my life. I listened to Tracy Smother and helped him take over the Hollywood Knights. When I did that, we turned our back on someone who was a better partner than Smothers would ever be. Well tonight, we are undoing that mistake, and bringing back the true founder of this organization …. "Gorgeous" Gary Young!

 

The crowd boos again, as Young comes out to the ring. Like the other wrestlers in ring, Young is wearing black gear with silver trim and is laughing as he joins them in the ring.

 

 

Bonnema : Well, I must say this is a surprise. I certainly had no idea that you were back in PCW. I take it you are back to take over the Hollywood Knights once again.

 

Young : Well, you are wrong twice over, Bonnema! First off, there are no Hollywood Knights … the Hollywood Knights are no more! * cue shocked looks from the crowd but the other wrestlers nod in agreement * And I am not here as a leader but as a disciple. Like the Big V here said, they kicked me out almost a year ago. They know now how much they were in error, and that is all in the past … all is forgiven! (The other wrestlers pat him on the back.) But that ended up being one of the best things to happen to me . Because in my time away, I have seen the light! I was able to find guidance, and realize that my old ways were misguided. That I was drawn in by the bright lights and temptations, and I needed to purify myself. Hollywood Knights? Hollywood is a den of corruption and vice! The whole west coast is a haven for filth and sleazery, and British Columbia is perhaps the worst of all! (The BC fans boo at this insult.) I was lucky to be saved by a great man and brought to the true light! I brought his word to Jack, Chris and Al, and they saw that it was the truth! (The other wrestlers continue to nod in agreement.) I intend to bring the word of enlightenment to all of the PCW crowds, whether you want it or not. Whether you deserve it or not! The man who saved me … this saint, this wizard, this GENIUS! Well, you will meet him in due time. But from here on in, the Hollywood Knights are no more! From now on, we are the Knights Templar … and this is our Crusade!

 

Dingo Warrior vs. Kel Gleason

 

 

The next newcomer to PCW was not wearing a mask, but was wearing rather ornate facepaint as he came out to the ring. The Dingo Warrior was a very muscular individual whose snarling and puffing of his cheeks certainly distinguished him from the other competitors in the Pacific Coast. The fans weren't quite sure what to make of this odd character, but Gleason was certainly regretting showing up that day, as the powerful Warrior levelled him with several devastating tackles and clotheslines. Finally, in an impressive feat of strength, Dingo Warrior hoisted him above his head in a Gorilla press before slamming him to the mat. He then ran the ropes and hit a splash that got the pinfall. This Dingo Warrior may be an unconventional fellow, but he is certainly a force to be reckoned with.

 

Ron Simmons vs. "Mean" Mike Miller

 

 

Ron Simmons finished out 1986 on a high note with a major victory over Stan "The Lariat" Hansen. Well, Hansen is no longer in PCW, but his one time stablemate "Mean" Mike Miller was out to gain revenge and uphold the reputation of the Crazy Gang. Miller was accompanied both by his manager Percy Pringle and by "Cowboy" Bob Orton, and tried to use his cunning and considerable dirty tricks to bring down Simmons. But the powerful All American would not be denied, tossing Miller around with big power moves, finally hitting the running Spear to take the match. Miller was furious at the result, but Orton and Pringle immediately started whispering in his ear, and the three were nodding together as they headed to the back. One hates to think what sinister developments this could imply.

 

Cannonball Grizzly vs. Mitchell Olson

 

 

The third newcomer to PCW this evening was a stocky but powerfully built man going by the name Cannonball Grizzly. The fans didn't seem to take to him, jeering his appearance as he shouted back at them. But they were in for a shock when the bell rang. For a 400 pounder, he was surprisingly light on his feet, tossing Olson about like a rag doll with some devastating suplexes. Then, in perhaps the most shocking move of the night, the huge Grizzly came off the top rope and squashed Olson with a flying splash. The new PCW class of 1987 continues to impress.

 

Interview : Frank Bonnema stands in the ring

 

Bonnema : Ladies and gentlemen, my next guests are another group in PCW currently in what could be described as a state of flux … the Crazy Gang!

 

The crowd boos loudly as "Mean" Mike Miller, "Cowboy" Bob Orton and Percy Pringle III make their to the ring, but the Crazy Gang pay them no mind, being all self assured grins.

 

 

Bonnema : Well, I am getting more than a little tired of saying it this evening, but you seem to be extremely happy with yourselves, considering the current state of the Crazy Gang. Stan Hansen is gone, Joel Deaton is gone, the Vice Squad are gone, and now One Man Gang looks to be now in the hands of Gary Hart. I assume you must have something up your sleeves, but I can't for the life of my figure out what.

 

Miller : You watch your mouth, Bonnema, or I will smack it off your head. It was time for those guys to move on, and the Crazy Gang is coming back , stronger than ever.

 

Pringle : You see, Frank Bonnema, Gary Hart paid a pretty penny to gain the services of the One Man Gang. No more than he deserved, but I took that money and I invested. Invested it in the future of the Crazy Gang, and that investment is about to reap impressive dividends. Let me introduce the newest members of the Crazy Gang, the ones who will take us into the future. The first is someone who will keep our many enemies off balance and scared. He is the nephew of the legendary Sheikh and a terrifying wrestler in his own right. He is the man who will bring the Crazy to the Crazy Gang … Sabu!

 

Sabu comes out, bizarrely ducking and twitching, and joins his new Crazy Gang comrades.

 

 

Pringle : The second hails from Hell's Kitchen and can twist and tear apart anyone foolish enough to step in the ring with him. He is the judge, jury and executioner of the Crazy Gang … Maxx Payne!

 

 

Payne is a big imposing man with black hair and a long black leather trench coat. He just stares forward impassively as he walks out to the ring, like in some sort of trance.

 

Pringle : And the third and final new member … he is the ruler of the wastelands, the most terrifying man in wrestling. He is the Ayatollah of Rock & Rolla .. the one, the only … Lord Humongous!

 

 

A gasp goes up from the crowd as Lord Humongous walks out. A tall, muscular man with leather straps across his chest and wearing a hockey mask. He towers over even his large stablemates and flexes behind them. The Crazy Gang are certainly looking a lot scarier as they move into 1987.

 

Pacific Tag Team Title Match : British Steel (Steven Regal & Robbie Brookside) © vs. ?? ??

 

 

The beloved team of British Steel pulled off a major upset towards the end of 1986 when they won the Pacific Tag Team Titles from the Midnight Express, sending Dennis Condrey out of PCW and spelling the end of that team. There was a lot of buzz in the crowd as to who their challengers would be, but that made way to annoyed confusion when Jim Cornette came out, accompanied by his bodyguard Big Bubba Rogers. Cornette immediately demanded the microphone.

 

Cornette : You idiots thought you were done with me, but you got another thing coming! Let me be the one to introduce the challengers. The soon to be Pacific Tag Team Champs and the greatest tag team in the world … "Loverb"- … errr, "Sweet" Stan Lane and "Beautiful" Bobby Eaton, the Midnight Express!

 

 

The crowd were in shock as Lane and Eaton came out to the ring. After the departure of Condrey, everyone figured that was it for the Midnights, not thinking that they would reconvene with a new partner. And what a partner it was. Stan Lane, formerly of the Fabulous Ones, was a handsome and fit wrestler, quickly catching the eyes of the ladies in the audience. And although this was a new pairing, they worked together with silky smooth coordination, hitting some remarkable combinations and double team moves. Regal and Brookside had worked hard to gain their titles, and certainly weren't about to give them up without a fight, leading to classic duel between the two teams. But in the end, the distraction of Cornette and the skill of the new duo was too much to overcome. Lane was able to blindside Regal with a Savate Kick into a clip by Eaton, and Brookside was unable to break up the pin in time. The Midnight Express were once again the Pacific Tag Team champs, and Cornette's ego was sky high.

 

Interview : Frank Bonnema stands in the ring

 

Bonnema : Ladies and gentlemen, my next guests are one of the most beloved groups in all of Pacific Coast Wrestling … Leo Burke and the Army!

 

 

The crowd loudly cheers as Burke, Shane Douglas and Steve Blackman make their way to the ring. The Army cheerfully shakes hands and high fives the fans as they walk out before joining Bonnema.

 

Bonnema : After some of the people I have been interviewing this evening, you can't imagine how happy I am to see you, Leo. Right now, I can't really introduce you as the Five Man Army anymore. But I have a sneaking suspicion that you might have something to say about that.

 

Burke : All in good time, Frank Bonnema. Before we get to that, Shane and Steve want to say something.

 

Douglas : Sheepherders, you have ambushed us twice. Never again! We’ve got our eyes on you, and we are going to make you pay for what you've done!

 

Blackman : That's right! Williams … Miller … we don't care how many countries you've been champion in. You come to the Pacific Coast, you are going to have to deal with Black Gold.

 

Burke : But we aren't going to be facing them alone. I said I would be recruiting new members of the Army, and I am incredibly pleased with what I have found. I've heard from Bam Bam Bigelow and Nick Busick, they are settling into their new homes, and they are glad to hear who will be helping complete the new Five Man Army. The first is another Steel Town Man, a big power house that I am sure will impress and amaze the PCW fans … US Steel!

 

 

The fans applaud as US Steel comes out. He is a burly and powerful man in a plaid shirt and hard hat, and definitely looks like he could do a lot of damage.

 

Burke : The second new member is one of your own. A Pacific Northwesterner and son of a great PCW wrestling family … Art Barr!

 

 

The fans continue cheering as Barr comes out. A young man, the son of senior PCW official Sandy Barr and brother of Jesse Barr, he gets a warm welcome both from the crowd and his new allies. The Five Man Army is once again back up to full strength.

 

Pacific Heavyweight Title Match : Barry Windham © vs. Bret Hart

 

 

The night caps off with a big main event, a match signed by popular demand. After some exciting exchanges in tag matches, the fans were clamouring for a one on one match between the Pacific Heavyweight Champ and the Hitman, and PCW quickly signed the match for the New Years special. While Bret Hart is primarily known as a tag wrestler, he has had several intense singles match in the past year where he showed what he was capable of, and all eyes were on this match in anticipation. Windham came out with Mike Rotunda, who was there for both support and to watch his back. Bret was accompanied both by his manager Gary Hart and his partner Jim Neidhart. Oddly, Niedhart seems quite wary and suspicious of Gary Hart during the match, although perhaps that was not so unusual given Gary Hart's accidental role in the Hart Foundation's loss of the Golden State Tag Team titles. At a few occasions in the match, Neidhart put his hands on Gary Hart, seemingly to prevent Gary Hart from interfering in the match. Bret was clearly trying to break down Windham, taking his big legs out from him and getting him to the mat, which led to some close matwork exchanges between the two. A few times, Bret had him wrapped in the figure four leglock, only for Windham's long limbs to allow him to make a rope break. At one point, Bret seemed to be attempting to get Windham in a sort of Japanese Scorpion hold, only for Windham to once again make it to the ropes. The two had a titanic struggle, with Bret determined to show he was a worthy contender and Windham equally determined to hold onto his newly won title. Windham was trying to put Bret away when he got him on the top turnbuckle for a Superplex, but Bret kept punching until he was able to knock Barry to the mat. Bret then came off the top with a flying clothesline, but Windham ducked at the last second and both men went crashing to the mat. Once the two were able to struggle their way to their feet, they were slugging it out when the bell rang, signaling a 20 minute time limit draw. After the match, Windham offered Bret a handshake of congratulations and respect, but instead Bret pointed at Windham, indicating he would be looking for a rematch. After tonight's efforts, it would be hard to deny him a second shot at Windham's title.

 

[Autistic Dragon]

It may be a new year but it's the same OMG, still squashing fools.

Rose gets a tainted win over Pillman but the real story is him getting called out by his old friend Oliver. Who does the Crippler have in store? Also the story of the large bearded fan continues.

A pair of successful debuts for Konnan & Eddie.

I don't blame Badd Company for being frustrated at recent events but they made a big mistake taking it out on the Odd Couple.

Wow what a shocker! Gary Young returns, disbands the group he started then declares he & his mates are Knights Temples on a crusade.

Dingo Warrior makes a impression if nothing else.

Miller continues his winning streak against the Crazy Gang but it seems that they've got something bad in store for him.

The future P.N News makes a memorable debut.

This may be the craziest the Crazy Gang has ever been!

The New MXE make a immediate impact by bringing the Tag Titles back to Jim Cornette. Speaking of whom, I liked his little flub during the intro.

Burke's new recruits show promise.

Interesting visual of Gary Hart being policed by one of his OWN men during the main event. It's a good thing he was though as the fans got a great title match out of it. I agree with Bret, a rematch is definitely in order.

[spaldoni]

New Year's is one of my favorite times in the game. We always know new faces will show up in new territories. Pacific doesn't disappoint. 

Gary Hart is looking to make a splash with OMG. 

Big night for Rose. He deals with the heckler. Has a tough match with Pillman. And then gets swerved from a returning Oliver. Rose vs. Oliver will be a huge draw. 

Konnan arrives with an impressive debut. 

The Guerreros bring in Eddie and it immediately pays off. 4 Guerreros, I love it! Also, looking forward to a Badd Co. heel run. 

Gary Young has seen the light and the Knights Templar are on a crusade. Like the new look. 

If there's one wrestler I'm looking forward to watch develop, it's the Dingo Warrior. His power style fits in so well here. 

Simmons carries his momentum into 1987. 

Good grief! Cannonball Grizzly tore it down in his debut.

Surprises keep coming as the Crazy Gang introduces Sabu, Maxx Pain and Lord Humungous! Crazy is defiantly the right name for this group. 

YES! Cornette is still here and he brings in Beautiful Bobby and Sweet Stan! I loved this version. Obviously British Steel is caught off guard and their short title run comes to an abrupt end. 

5 Man Army evens the odds with all the other factions by bringing in US Steel and Art Barr. This night keeps getting better.

After all that, we get a classic 20 minute draw between Windham and Hart. I know everybody is excited for a rematch. 

That show rocked!  Pacific is going to have a blockbuster year. 

 

[kevinmcfl]

I couldn't wait to read your first show of the year.  With all your roster moves I knew this would be exciting.  In Dawn of War, you are the master at developing talent and you got a lot of new faces to work with.  Can't wait to see what happens here.  Crippler Rip Oliver is back home and I can't wait to see where this goes.  His feud with Rose is going to be fun.  I am also excited for the new Midnights.  This is going to be fun.

And what a great main event.  These two are set up to have a huge 87!

[rainmakerrtv]

4 hours ago, Autistic Dragon said:

 

The New MXE make a immediate impact by bringing the Tag Titles back to Jim Cornette. Speaking of whom, I liked his little flub during the intro.

 

When they debuted the Lane/Eaton Midnight Express in real life, Cornette made the exact same flub. (First found this out when Cornette mentioned it in a shoot interview.) This was a deliberate homage to that. I wanted to recreate this little bit of wrestling history.

[Autistic Dragon]

2 minutes ago, rainmakerrtv said:

When they debuted the Lane/Eaton Midnight Express in real life, Cornette made the exact same flub. (First found this out when Cornette mentioned it in a shoot interview.) This was a deliberate homage to that. I wanted to recreate this little bit of wrestling history.

Oh man that makes it even better! Definitely worth adding.

[kevinmcfl]

Great research!!

[rainmakerrtv]

Pacific Coast Wrestling show from the Pacific Coliseum, Vancouver on Pacific Super Cards on ESPN / TSN , January 2^nd

 

Black Gold (Steve Blackman & Shane Douglas) vs. The Sheepherders

 

Black Gold put up a good fight, so much so that the New Zealanders went to skullduggery by using a distraction by the ref to hit a double clothesline assisted by the flagpole to the New Zealand flag and get a tainted pin on Douglas

 

Konnan vs. Mr. Hito

 

Both men seemed determined to get the other to submit, with the young Konnan withstanding several arm and leg locks by Hito and trap him in the Tequila Sunrise and force the Japanese veteran to give up

 

Keiichi Yamada vs. Gary Young

 

This would be the first match for the new look Gary Young since his return to Pacific Coast Wrestling. The newly renamed Knights Templar were at ringside, but Yamada did his best to shut out their presence and focus on the match. He kept up a quick pace against Young, peppering him with dropkicks and rapid fire moves. But to his credit, Young kept his cool throughout, waiting for his chances to take his shots and making them count. Yamada tried to put him down with the running palm thrust, but Young ducked it and tossed him out of the ring. It was then that things took a strange turn. While the other members of the Knights Templar held the eye of the ref, a man in a black and silver rope with a hood pulled over his head  made his way to ringside. The mystery man grabbed Yamada and bodyslammed him hard onto the floor. Not a spectacular move, but enough to take the wind out of Yamada's sails and he was not able to make it back in the ring in time. Young won the match by countout. But the Knights Templar had not finished with their fun, dragging Yamada into the ring while the hooded man put him in an excruciating cross face chicken wing. Brian Pillman and Owen Hart rushed out and tried to save Yamada, but the Knights Templar kept them out until the hooded man dropped Yamada to the mat and ordered the rest of the Knights to leave. As Pillman and Hart tended to their wounded comrade, the mystery man pulled down his hood and glared at the ring … it was BOB BACKLUND! The new leader of the Knights Templar has been revealed and the fans are in shock.

 

 

Brian Pillman vs. Eddie Guerrero

 

Eddie's three brothers were at ringside for this match, but unlike the Knights Templar, they made no move to interfere and simply observed and cheered on their youngest brother. Eddie gave a good accounting of himself in a lively and fast paced match,  but ultimately Pillman had just that much of an advantage in experience, coming out on top in a battle of rollups for the one two three. Eddie was disappointed in this result, but his brothers were supportive, congratulating him on a strong effort.

 

Pacific Light Heavyweight Title Match : Chris Candido © vs. Black Tiger

 

Candido was backpedaling for much as the masked man was very aggressive with him, but was able to block an attempted cradle by grabbing a hold of the ropes , using the leverage for the pin and get a dirty victory.

 

Rip Oliver & ?? ?? vs. Buddy Rose, Ed Wiskowski & Fit Finlay

 

The Playboy Club were the first out, looking very cocky, albeit they did seem thrown off when they saw that the bearded man had once again showed up with a ringside seat. Rose tried to goad him into getting ejected again with insults, but the bearded man refused to engage , simply remaining seated and glaring at the Playboy. Rip Oliver then came out and asked for the microphone.

 

Oliver : Well, gotta say, am a bit surprised that you actually showed up, Rose. And you also brought your goons with you … less of a surprise. Well, if you expect them to keep you safe from me, you are the one who is in for a surprise. You see, I went and found me the roughest, the toughest, the meanest tag team in the world. From the north woods of Quebec … Big Jos Leduc … Pierre Carl Ouellet … they are TDT … Tabarnak De Team!

 

 

A gasp comes out from the crowd as Leduc and Ouellet head to the ring. Two rugged and stoutly muscular men in black pants and plaid lumberjack shirts , Leduc was the most familiar to the fans, being already a well established worldwide veteran. Oullet was a much younger newcomer, but no less intimidating. Once the match began, Rip Oliver and his men and the Playboy Club tore into each other with raw fury and hatred. Well, most of the Playboy Club. Their, ahem, fearless leader, did everything his could to avoid getting involved in the match, and tagged out the moment things started to turn against him. The match wound up breaking down to a pier 6 brawl with most of the men in the ring, and that was when Rose decided to strike. He snuck into the ring and went right after Oliver. Big mistake, as Oliver was ready and hit the Playboy with a nasty corkscrew neckbreaker. TDT were able to hold off Wiskowski and Finlay and the ref made the three count. Rip Oliver is back in the Pacific Coast in a big way.

 

Barry Windham & Mike Rotunda vs. The Hart Foundation

 

After the previous night's epic Pacific Heavyweight title match , a tag match was quickly signed between the Brigade and the Harts and the Brigade for tonight's main event. While the Harts have more experience as a team, Windham and Rotunda are long time friends and pretty much synched into each other's thoughts, and the result was a classic tag battle. The ending was quite unusual, as Neidhart tried to whip Rotunda into the ropes, but Rotunda reversed it at the last moment. Thinking it was Rotunda, Gary Hart reached in and tripped Neidhart instead. This forced the Anvil to lose his footing, and Rotunda swiftly capitalized by hitting a leaping clothesline. Windham held off Bret and Rotunda got the one two three. Bret and Neidhart were arguing with their manager on the way back to the locker room. Something tells me that not all is well in Gary Hart International.

 

[Autistic Dragon]

The Shepherders are just a little to nasty for Black Gold to handle...for now.

Konnan gets an impressive submission victory over PCW's gatekeeper.

Bob Backlund is the leader of the Knights Templar! Shit is about to get wild in PCW!

Pillman gets a win over young Eddie. Sweet moment with his brothers cheering him up after the loss.

Candido vs Black Tiger sounds like a real workhorse title match.

Tabarnak De Team arrive with a bang helping Oliver get the first win in the feud with his former running buddies.

Ok Gary better get his shit together because "The Hitman" & "The Anvil" are only prepared to tolerate so many screw ups.

[spaldoni]

Douglas feels the wrath of the Sheepherders.

Konnan passes a big test as he gets by Hito. BTW, I really like Hito's role here. Credible heel veteran who helps get the faces over. 

WOW!!! Did not see this coming! BOB BACKLUND is in Pacific! Him leading Knights Templar is going to be craziness at its best! This is so awesome! 

Eddie shows promise in his loss to Pillman. 

Candido always finds a way to keep that title. 

Well, Oliver couldn't have picked better partners. Another great debut with TDT. I love their look. Perfect for the Pacific Northwest. Oliver gets the big fall on Rose and is now way over with the fans. 

Classic tag match to end the night. Gary's blunder costs the Hart's the match. I'm sensing a face turn. 

1987 is kicking off with some hot storylines. 

[kevinmcfl]

Great job getting us all caught up on the new talent here in PCW.  While Backlund was the big surprise here, I am really interested in seeing what happens with Rip, Jos and Ouellet.

Glad to see Pillman go over Eddie.  Eddie is going to be awesome but I think you got it right that he isn't ready for Pillman.

Great classic main event!

[rainmakerrtv]

Pacific Coast Wrestling show from the Kelowna Memorial Arena, Kelowna, January 3^rd

 

Jeff Jarrett & Dan Severn vs. Badd Company

 

In a shocking change of personality, Badd Company engaged in some flagrant cheating throughout the match, including a sneak attack by Tanaka with a cartwheel kick on Jarrett that got them the win

 

Tony Atlas vs. TNT

 

Atlas won by DQ when TNT sprayed him with the green mist. TNT continued his attack after the match until Vic Steamboat and Brian Adams rushed out and ran out TNT before helping Atlas to the back.

 

Vic Steamboat & Brian Adams vs. The Wild Bulls (Ed & Rick Gantner)

 

Interestingly, Steamboat & Adams were both wearing rainbow patterned armbands tonight. This was a knock down, drag out fight, with the new team of Steamboat and Adams pulling out an upset victory when Adams flattened big Rick Gantner with a huge running boot to the head.

 

One Man Gang vs. Leo Burke

 

The rampage of the Big 747 continued as he took down the General of the Army with a running avalanche in the corner.

 

Golden State Tag Team Title Match : Scott Hall & Tom Magee © vs. Mike Miller & Bob Orton

 

This was an intense scrap with no one holding back. Gator and Megaman just barely held onto their titles when Hall was able to catch Orton in the Gator Breaker (fallaway slam)

 

California Title Match : Owen Hart © vs. Al Snow

 

Snow continues to shine as he gave Owen a real run for his money in an exciting match where Owen was ultimately able to prevail with a diving cross body block

 

Tony St. Clair & British Steel (Steven Regal & Robbie Brookside) vs. Big Bubba Rogers & The Midnight Express

 

While British Steel were looking to get some revenge for their previous night's title loss, the surprising story of this match was St. Clair and Big Bubba. The seemingly unstoppable Rogers faced a shocking roadblock from "Tough" Tony, who was able to stagger him with some punishing forearm shots. In the end, it was the new champs who were able to put down Brookside with the Rocket Launcher , but Cornette seemed anxious to get his bodyguard away from St. Clair.

 

[rainmakerrtv]

16 hours ago, spaldoni said:

 

Konnan passes a big test as he gets by Hito. BTW, I really like Hito's role here. Credible heel veteran who helps get the faces over. 

 

This is why I always try to keep a space for Hito on my roster. Also, with his history as one of Stu Hart's top trainers, he has a reputation as helping develop talent. I figure if I give the future legend rookies some matches with Hito, they will come out of it a bit better and with more realized potential than they were before.

[Autistic Dragon]

Badd Company's new bad attitude nets them a win over the Odd Couple.

Steamboat & Adams save Atlas from a beat down & score a huge win over the Iron Bulls all while showing off their new armbands. They really seem to be coming together as a team.

OMG buries the general with an avalanche! What's it gonna take to stop this monster?

The Brigade retain in a slugfest against the 2 senior members of The Crazy Gang.

Snow tries to get some singles gold like his Bomb Squad teammate but it's not to be. Hart's reign is off to an exciting start.

The MXE put an exclamation point on their title win but I'm looking forward to more of St Clair & Big Bubba throwing hands, preferably with the TV Title on the line.

Edited January 2, 2022 by Autistic Dragon

[spaldoni]

Badd Co. gets mean as their heel run begins. The story behind this turn was very well done. 

Atlas and TNT will be a solid program. 

Former foes Steamboat and Adams are united and get a big time upset over the Wild Bulls. 

OMG's path of destruction continues as he takes Burke down. 

Gator and Mega Man are tested tonight but retain over the tough Crazy Gang members. 

Owen retains in an action packed match with Snow. 

Midnights and Bubba beat the British, but Bubba might have a serious challenger on his hands with St. Clair. 

 

[Scarlet-Left]

Pacific has such a cool roster of talent!

I'm desperate to see Bret Hart get another chance at beating Barry Windham one-on-one!

Brian Pillman versus Eddie Guerrero is a great midcard match, and I hope a win can give Brian Pillman the momentum and confidence he needs to get some gold!

The Midnight Express are always fun, seeing them up against British Steel would've been a real treat. They've found an equaliser for Big Bubba Rogers, unfortunately that's still not a guaranteed win against a team as good as them.

[rainmakerrtv]

Pacific Wrestling Showcase from the Portland Sports Arena, Portland , on ESPN / TSN , January 7^th

 

Sabu, Maxx Payne & Lord Humongous vs. Bob Johnson, Jeff Varner & Carl Billancione

 

 

Last week, we saw the unveiling of the newest members of the Crazy Gang, but tonight we would get to see them in the ring for the first time. Along with their manager, Percy Pringle, their fellow Crazy Gang members "Mean" Mike Miller and Bob Orton came out to support them. Miller and Orton certainly seemed pleased with what they saw. Sabu, in spite of his, err, unconventional personality, proved to be both a fierce brawler and an impressive high flyer, hitting some striking dropkicks and flying forearms. Lord Humongous showed some truly staggering power, with big slams and mighty clotheslines. And Maxx Payne just rolled over the opposition, folding up Varner like an according with a series of suplexes before locking him in the Payne Killer (Wakigatame armbar). Varner was screaming his submission but Payne didn't let it go until ordered to by the ref. But even that was not enough. On Pringle's command, Lord Humongous tossed Billancione out of the ring and trapped Johnson in the Shininomaki (modified Cobra clutch) while the rest of the Crazy Gang laughed. Once again, the ref had to force the release with threats of fines and suspension, so Humongous dropped Johnson hard to the mat before tossing him as well out of the ring. The Crazy Gang may have gone through major changes, but they are definitely still a major threat.

 

Dingo Warrior vs. Silas Gaither

 

 

Tonight we have another appearance from the frankly bizarre Dingo Warrior, who rushed out to the ring and started shaking the ropes and beating his chest. Strange though he might be, he has drawn a lot of attention in his brief time in PCW, and during this match, Gary Hart could be seen at the back of the arena, giving him an appraising look. Dingo Warrior ran right over Gaither like a steamroller, devastating him with tackles and clotheslines before polishing him off with the Gorilla Press slam and running splash combo. After the match, Gary Hart tried to talk to Dingo, but the muscle man didn't seem to want to listen.

 

Tabarnak De Team (Jos Leduc & Pierre Carl Ouellet) vs. Ed Wiskowski & Fit Finlay

 

 

TDT, the rough and ready team that Rip Oliver has brought into PCW, made a big impact last week in the 6 man tag against the Playboy Club. Tonight, they would keep up the fight with the Playboy Club by fighting Buddy Rose's top lieutenants. Easy Ed and the Belfast Bruiser were certainly no pushovers, and the result was a truly hellacious brawl that the ref struggled to control. Any sense of order went straight out the window when the Sheepherders rushed out and joined in the attack on the Quebecois lumberjacks , leading to a DQ finish. Leduc and Ouellet fought hard, but were on the verge of being overwhelmed when Rip Oliver came out with a chair and cleared the Playboy Club out of the ring. Oliver and his men have proven their resilience, but are facing long odds against Buddy Rose and his cohorts given that they are dealing with a decided disadvantage in numbers.

 

US Steel & Art Barr vs. Peter Harkey & Hunter Ellis

 

 

The two newest members of the Five Man Army came out, with fellow Army members Leo Burke, Shane Douglas and Steve Blackman joining them at ringside to show support. US Steel was a genial burly man, eager to shake hands and give high fives to the fans. Barr was even more ebullient, clearly psyched to be making his debut in front of his home town crowd. The fans were solidly behind the newcomers as they handled Harkey and Ellis with ease. Steel showed considerable power as he tossed the opposition about like rag dolls. Meanwhile, Barr was speedy and fiery, peppering his opponents with dropkicks and high flying moves. Steel hit an devastating over the knee backbreaker on Harkey, and normally that would have been the end of the match. But he tagged in his partner, and Barr went up to the top rope. He came off with a spectacular move where he pumped his legs in the air as he landed on Harkey with a flying splash, a move he calls the Frog Splash. This put the final exclamation point on the match as the ref counted to three. While it is certainly hard to replace Bam Bam Bigelow and Nick Busick, the fans were certainly glad to see the Five Man Army back up to full strength.

 

Ron Simmons vs. Bob Orton

 

 

The Crazy Gang have had a long standing feud with the Brigade, getting some high profile wins and losses in equal measure. But one member they have had a difficult time defeating has been Ron Simmons. The All American athlete has just kept on overpowering, even coming back from a loss to Stan Hansen to ultimately prevail against the Mad Man from Borger. After losing to Simmons last week, "Mean" Mike Miller was at ringside along with Percy Pringle, observing Simmons every move against the Cowboy. Orton's experience did him well against Simmons, even managing to get him to the mat in an armbar that managed to do some damage. But Simmons was able to battle his way out and eventually hit a running Spear to get the pinfall on Orton. Although this was a defeat for the Crazy Gang, you wouldn't think it to look at them, as Orton, Miller and Pringle were busy in conversation afterwards, nodding to each other as they headed to the locker room.

 

Interview : Frank Bonnema stands in the ring

 

Bonnema : Ladies and gentlemen, my next guests have made considerable changes to their approach going into 1987 … the Hollyw- , errr, the Knights Templar!

 

 

The fans loudly boo as Gary Young, Jack Victory, Chris Candido, Al Snow , and their seemingly latest member Bob Backlund make their way to the ring. They take no mind of their response, having a grim , self righteous look on their faces to match their black and silver gear.

 

Bonnema : Gary Young, last week, you talked of a Genius who was going to come in and guide the, ummm, Knights Templar. I take it that Bob Backlund is said Genius?

 

Young : Right you are, Frank Bonnema. Mr. Backlund has brought me enlightenment. He has saved me from the pits of Hell. I have , in turn, brought him to the Knights Templar. They have heard his word, and they know that it is good!

 

Bonnema : Bob Backlund, up until recently, you had been one of the most respected men in wrestling. But increasingly, word has spread of your increasingly bizarre behaviour. I was skeptical, but now I see that it is true. What do you have to say for yourself?

 

Backlund : Bizarre? BIZARRE? Frank Bonnema, I am the only truly normal, sane man that you know! I have been endeavouring to spread my wisdom and enlightenment to an ungrateful populace. But I heard what was taking place in Pacific Coast Wrestling, and I knew my crusade must come here. I look out on the plebians in attendance , and I am filled with disgust and loathing! * an explosion of boos from the crowd * The Pacific North West is full of dirty , filthy hippies, and California is a modern day Sodom and Gomorrah! Florida was bad enough … the very atmosphere sickened me so much, it had a truly deleterious effect on me.  I was drained enough by it that I lost a loser leaves town match and set my sights west. Good riddance to them! Well, I, Mr. Bob Backlund, am here to bring my campaign of righteousness to the Pacific coast to purify it like a cleansing rain. If needs be, a rising tide that will flood the entire western seaboard, leaving nothing but a peaceful stretch of water called Arizona Bay! To that end, I bring you my Knights Templar. Gary … you were the first to hear the word. You knew that is was good, and tossed aside your past like the burden it was. You are like the son I never had. * Gary Young beams * Chris , Al … the Bomb Squad! Your effect on the tag team ranks will truly be explosive. I will help you to unlock your limitless potential, and you will make me proud. * Candido and Snow look to each other and nod * And Jack … no more will you be "Hollywood" Jack. You have left behind that den of iniquity. Henceforth, you are "Venomous" Jack Victory, and Pacific Coast Wrestling will tremble at your name.  *Jack Victory smugly grins * I will bring virtue and purity to the people of the Pacific Coast, whether they like it or not. I will lead you to the promised land. These are the Knights Templar, and this is our crusade! Pacific Coast Wrestling … learn to swim!

 

Pacific Heavyweight Title Match : Barry Windham © vs. Bret Hart

 

 

After last week's title match went to a time limit draw, a rematch was swiftly signed, and all present were very keen to see the result. Windham came out once again backed up by Mike Rotunda, while Hart was joined by both his partner Jim Neidhart and his manager Gary Hart. Neidhart was once again very warily eyeing Gary Hart, on several occasions putting a warning hand on him when it looked like the manager might try to take direct interference in the match. Bret Hart remained focused on what was going on in the ring, and once again provided a tremendous challenge for the new champion. The fans were in rapt attention as the momentum of the match swung back and forth, with Bret working harder to pull of the upset. The action was reaching it's apex with Jim Neidhart got distracted by cheering on his partner, and Gary Hart immediately reached into his pocket and tossed a set of brass knucks into the ring. Unfortunately, they landed in front of the ref, who immediately called for the bell and disqualified Bret. Bret argued passionately that he hadn't used or even touched the knucks, with Windham taking his side and saying the match should go on, but the ref was adamant and the decision stood. A disappointing result, and both the Hitman and the Anvil were furiously arguing with Gary Hart on the way back to the locker room.

 

[Autistic Dragon]

The newest recruits to the Crazy Gang make a dominant in ring debut.

Gary Hart has his eye on another Warrior for his stable but it seems this Dingo isn't biting.

Oliver & TDT may have to find a couple more friends if they mean to pursue this war against the Playboy Club.

The Army's newest volunteers arrive with a win.

Simmons keeps his roll against the Crazy Gang going strong but they're cooking up something big.

Backlund declares his intent for all PCW to hear. He's got quite the army to back up those words. I chuckled when he basically said he lost the LLT match in Florida on purpose.

Damn it Gary! This is why you and your men have to coordinate cheating! Nice of Barry to stick up for Bret though.

[rainmakerrtv]

Pacific Coast Wrestling show from the Portland Memorial Coliseum , Portland , on ESPN / TSN Pacific Super Cards, January 8^th

 

Black Gold (Steve Blackman & Shane Douglas) & Art Barr vs. The Bomb Squad (Chris Candido & Al Snow) & Jack Victory

 

The Knights Templar were accompanied at ringside by both Gary Young and Bob Backlund, but oddly they did nothing to interfere in the match, only giving advice to their men. Whatever they are telling the newly dubbed Knights Templar, it has certainly lit a fire under them, as despite an incredible effort from the Five Man Army, a well coordinated effort from the Knights resulted in Victory pinning Barr with the Victory-Plex

 

Robbie Brookside vs. Eddie Guerrero

 

The youngest of the Guerrero Brothers continued to make a strong impression in this match with all of his brothers at ringside. He gave a tremendous challenge to Brookside before ultimately being pinned by a running cross body press by the young Englishman.  After the match, Brookside helped Guerrero up and shook his hand in respect while his brothers applauded his efforts.

 

Leo Burke vs. Maxx Payne

 

Burke did the best as he could against the imposing Man In Black, but the sheer size and power of Payne was too much to overcome, and the newcomer forced Burke to give up to the Payne Killer. After the match, it looked like Payne wanted to go after Burke again, but Percy Pringle called him off.

 

Vic Steamboat vs. TNT

 

Once again, Steamboat was joined at ringside by Brian Adams, and they both were wearing Rainbow pattern armbands. TNT thought he was about to take Steamboat out with the Caribbean Kick, but Steamboat ducked at the last moment. TNT recovered enough to whip Steamboat into the ropes, but when he ducked down for a back body drop, Steamboat countered with a Sunset Flip to score the three count. An enraged TNT was about to go after Steamboat post match, but he saw Adams stand by Steamboat's side and thought better of it.

 

US Steel vs. Bob Orton

 

At first, the veteran Orton didn't seem to be taking the big man from Steeltown seriously. But US Steel caught the Cowboy by surprise, tossing him about with his considerable power. Ultimately, Orton resorted to skullduggery, being passed a foreign object by Pringle and loading it into his elbow pad before using it for a loaded forearm shot to the head to get the dirty pinfall

 

Steven Regal vs. Hector Guerrero

 

These two dazzled the crowd with an exciting match that ended with Hector catching Regal in the Guerrero Clutch for the pin

 

Golden State Tag Team Title Match : Scott Hall & Tom Magee © vs. The Hart Foundation

 

The Hart Foundation came out without Gary Hart and proceeded to give an intense challenge to the Brigade to regain the Golden State Tag Titles. Late in the match, Gary Hart came out to ringside, and Neidhart started to tell him to go away. Magee capitalized by sneaking up on Neidhart and rolling him up for the win. The Harts were furious with Gary Hart and looked like they were about to attack him when TNT, Mr. Hito and One Man Gang came out and stood by their manager. Tensions were running high until PCW security came out and ordered them all back to the locker room.

 

Pacific Heavyweight Title Match : Barry Windham © vs. Buddy Rose

 

The burly bearded man was once again in a ringside seat, cheering on his favorite wrestler Barry Windham. The champion took time to give a hug to his biggest fan (literally). When the Playboy came out, the bearded man sat in stony silence, glaring at him. Rose was clearly not amused, doing everything he could to provoke the fan into getting ejected again. But the bearded fan kept his composure, and just kept fixing him with a death stare. While Rose put up an intense challenge for the Heavyweight Title, but should have kept his attention fixed on the match, because when he stopped to jaw with the fan, Windham blindsided him with a Bulldog Headlock and scored the win.

 

[Autistic Dragon]

A surprising clean win from the newly knighted trio.

Eddie is winning over the crowd with some hard fought losses.

Payne impresses with a submission victory over the general.

Adams watches Steamboat's back as he gets a win over TNT.

Orton having to load his pad puts over Steele in defeat.

Hector puts a win on the board for Los Guerreros.

Gary Hart International is coming apart at the seems.

Barry's Burly Bearded Buddy helps his hero retain the Heavyweight title, though in fairness that may have been more on Rose than anything else.

[spaldoni]

I love these new Crazy Gang members. What a cast of characters,

Dingo Warrior wants nothing to do with Gary Hart. Can't say I blame him. 

TDT and the Sheepherders has the potential to be one of the most violent feuds in Pacific history. 

Steel and Barr quickly get the fans behind them. 

Simmons takes Orton down but it seems Orton, Miller and Hart have a plan to regroup. 

I couldn't wait for the inevitable Backlund promo and man did he deliver. I just about lost it when he said Gary was like a son to him. Backlund is going to take the Knights to new heights. 

Gary Hart ruins the Windham/Bret classic. It wont be long before the Harts have enough. 

To Portland, 

Whatever it is that Backlund is doing, it's working. 

Brookside gets the win but young Eddie is learning. 

Big win for Payne as he defeats the leader of the 5 man Army. 

Vic gets the quick pin on TNT. After that post match scene, I wonder if TNT will be looking for a partner. 

Orton rebounds from his Simmons loss. I liked that finish. Kinda reminds me of Orton's "broken arm" days. 

I'm sure Hector and Regal put on a gem.

Gary Hart does it again. The tension between him and the Harts is at an all time high. 

In his short time as champ, Windham has been a fighting one. Nice win over former champ Rose. Looking forward to the showdown between Rose and his number one fan. 

Pacific is rock'n with all the new changes. 

[LowBlowPodcast]

Rain, you've always had a lot of skill writing and this promotion is evident of just that.  The Hall and McGee team intrigues me. Scott Hall is one of those guys who at this time in his career just couldn't find the right thing but he had all the talent in the world.Looks like you're putting him right where he belongs.  Also, Barry Windham as the top guy, without question he is in his prime here in 87 and could carry a promotion. I am happy to see him doing so here.