AWA Major League Wrestling

[Autistic Dragon]

So many well built feuds, so many great matches. Champagne Slam is gonna rock!

[LastStopTour]

Nice way to give that last minute hype for the PPV with the lead up to each of the matches. Lots of work there to build each and every one of them. This is going to go over well with your fans.

[LowBlowPodcast]

I loved that tag tournament concept. Makes it feel important while also building up the Crockett Cup. Champaign Slam is going to be a fun show and your build ups have been great. Bad News and Carlos is a great main event and shows off how diverse the AWA is when it comes to talent... add in Nikita v Adams... and that big 10-man tag.... there's a little bit for everyone on this show.

[spaldoni]

AWA 

Presents 

From the Market Square Arena 4-15-88

 

Dark Match

AWA National Tag Team Champs Venomous defeated Salvatore Bellomo and Gene Ligon when Cobra hoisted Ligon up in a suplex position and Kat hit a flying press off the top ropes for the exciting win. Venomous are back and better than ever. 

 

The pay per view officially starts as the camera pans over Market Square Arena. Next we see Gerry Morrow and Brenda Britton sitting in a V.I.P. suite. Brenda's wearing an elegant red dress while Morrow is wearing a white tuxedo, white fedora hat and sunglasses. They raise their champagne glasses.

Morrow: AHHHHHHH Brenda, a toast to Champagne Slam.

 

Larry Nelson's at ringside and goes over tonight's matches and sends us to the ring for the opening contest. 

 

 

Scott 'Powerhouse' Putski vs. Cannonball Griz 

Just a reminder, Griz's manager Norvell Austin is at the Crockett Cup with his Midnight Express. The bell rings and Griz charges Putski, but Putski back drops the big man over. Griz staggers up as Putski dropkicks him through the ropes. Griz gets up but falls back down, then gets mad and flips over several chairs. Griz hops on the apron, Putski runs to him but Griz rakes his eyes and snaps Putski's head on the top rope.

Griz gets in the ring and stomps down on Putski. Griz picks up Putski and rakes his face across the top rope. Griz chokes Putski on the top rope, then flings him back. Griz picks up Putski, swings him into the turnbuckles and follows with a running back elbow smash! Griz snapmares Putski over and applies a chinlock. The fans fire Putski up. Putski starts to rise and hits Griz with several elbows to the mid section. Putski is able to break the hold. 

Putski swings off the ropes but on the way back, Griz puts him down with a shoulder block. Griz picks up Putski and slams him down. Griz goes to the middle ropes but spends a lot of time yelling at the fans. Griz goes for a big splash but Putski moves. Both men are reeling. They slowly rise. Putski swings off the ropes and nails Griz with the Polish Hammer 1..2..3! Big Pop! 

Winner of the Match- Scott Putski 

 

 

'The Latin Heartthrob' Al Perez vs. Chicky Starr 

The bell rings and Chicky walks up to Perez and starts taunting him. Chicky pushes Perez. Perez lunges forward and knocks Chicky down with a big right punch. Chicky gets up and takes a wild swing but Perez ducks and slams Chicky down. Perez hoists Chicky up and delivers a delayed 360 degree vertical suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Chicky quickly rolls out of the ring. Perez goes out after him and slams Chicky's head on the apron then hurls him back in the ring. While Perez enters the ring, Chicky reaches in his tights and pulls out a wooden object. As Perez gets close, Chicky nails Perez with the object, then chucks it out of the Ref's view. 

Chicky grabs Perez and tosses him to the outside. Chicky goes to the apron. Perez staggers around as Chicky crashes down with a double axehandle. Chicky grabs Perez and hurls him back in the ring. Chicky goes to the top rope and hits another double axehandle on Perez 1..2..Kick Out. Chicky grabs the top rope and drops several knees on Perez. Chicky picks up Perez and slams him down, then goes to the top rope and comes down with a knee drop 1..2..Kick Out. Chicky berates the Ref. Chicky swings Perez to the ropes and goes for a back drop but Perez kicks him. 

As Chicky staggers up, Perez puts him down with a forearm blast. Perez picks up Chicky, swings him to the ropes and back drops him. Perez picks up Chicky, swings him to the ropes and hits a flying forearm blast 1..2..Chicky gets his shoulder up. Perez picks up Chicky and hits a snap suplex, then goes to the middle ropes and crashes down with a forearm drop 1..2..Kick Out. Perez swings Chicky into the corner and charges in but Chicky moves as Perez crashes into the turnbuckles. 

Chicky swings Perez to the ropes and puts him down with a double thrust shot. Chicky swings off the ropes and goes for his corkscrew elbow drop but Perez moves. Perez pumps his fists, picks up Chicky and slams him down. Perez hoists Chicky up for the helicopter drop but Chicky scrambles and gets his flailing feet under the top rope as both men fall awkwardly. Both men stagger up and exchange punches. Perez gets the upper hand and swings Chicky into the turnbuckles. Perez hops on the turnbuckles and the fans count as Perez punches away. Chicky grabs Perez and hits an inverted atomic drop, holds on and grabs Perez's legs from under him. Chicky pushes Perez's legs forward as he pushes his own legs against the turnbuckles for leverage 1..2..3! BOOOOOOO! Chicky slides out of the ring with his arms raised in victory as Perez sits on his knees with a pissed off look. 

Winner of the Match- Chicky Starr 

 

 

'Crippler' Rip Oliver vs. Ray 'The Crippler' Stevens 

The bell rings and the Cripplers fists are flying. They have a furious exchange and punch each other all over the ring. Oliver gets the upper hand as he punches Stevens, then winds up and knocks Stevens down. Oliver stomps down on Stevens, picks him up and slams him down. Oliver swings Stevens to the ropes and puts him down with a running high knee 1..2..Kick Out. Oliver reaches down but Stevens rakes his eyes and gives Oliver an uppercut. Stevens regroups. 

Oliver rises as Stevens charges and nails Oliver with a running knee to the side of Oliver's head 1..2..Kick Out. Stevens picks up Oliver and hits a backbreaker. Stevens follows with a gut wrench suplex and a body slam. Stevens goes to the top rope and crashes down with the Bombs Away 1..2..Oliver gets his foot on the ropes. Stevens is livid. Stevens chokes away on Oliver, picks him up, swings him to the ropes but misses a clothesline, Oliver swings back and clotheslines Stevens down. 

Oliver regroups and unloads on Stevens with punches. Oliver grabs Stevens by his hair and slams his head on the turnbuckle several times. Oliver slams Stevens down, then goes to the middle ropes. Stevens staggers up as Oliver puts him down with a flying forearm blast. Oliver grabs Stevens, hoists him up and piledrives him down 1..2..3! Oliver wins the battle of the Cripplers! 

Winner of the Match- Rip Oliver 

 

 

Nick Busick vs. Kokina w/Abbuda Iaukea 

The bell rings but Iaukea keeps yelling at Busick, until Busick clotheslines him over the top rope! Kokina nails Busick from behind and is all over him with punches and chops. Kokina pulls Busick up, holds him and headbutts him down. Kokina swings Busick to the ropes and a big chop puts Busick down. Kokina swings off the ropes and goes for a leg drop but Busick moves. 

Busick staggers up. Kokina slowly rises as Busick swings off the ropes and clotheslines Kokina down. Busick swings off the ropes and drops an elbow on Kokina 1..2..Kick Out. Busick picks up Kokina, swings him into the corner and charges in but Kokina runs forward and bulldozers Busick down. Kokina catches his breath.

Kokina pushes Busick into the corner and unleashes a flurry of punches and chops. Kokina picks up Busick and slams him down hard. Kokina picks up Busick and clamps on a bearhug. Kokina wrenches away, then rams Busick into the turnbuckles and follows with a big belly to belly suplex 1..2..Busick somehow manages to get a shoulder up! Iaukea is on the outside berating the Ref. Kokina grabs the Ref but lets go after a stern warning. Kokina regroups and hoists Busick up on his shoulders. Kokina is trying for the Samoan Drop but Busick is fighting like hell. Busick finally drops down behind Kokina. 

Kokina turns around but Busick unloads on him with punches. Busick Irish whips Kokina into the corner and follows with a running clothesline. Busick whips Kokina to the opposite corner and follows with another running clothesline! The crowd's going nuts as Busick swings Kokina to the ropes and puts him down with a diving clothesline 1..2..WHAM! Iaukea runs in and stomps away on Busick. The Ref signals for the DQ. 

Iaukea picks up Busick but Busick starts punching away, then slams Iaukea down. Kokina staggers up and hits Busick. Kokina swings Busick into the corner and charges in for a splash but Busick moves. Kokina hits hard and falls down. Iaukea staggers up as Busick grabs him, swings him to the ropes and puts him down with the Spinebuster Slam! 

Winner of the Match by DQ- Nick Busick 

 

 

10-Man Tag Team Elimination Match 

El Canek/Billy Jack Strong/'The Wild One' Johnny Rich and The Guerreros (Hector and Chavo) w/Mando Guerrero

VS.

Crusher Blackwell/'Marvelous' Mike George/Dream Machine and The Fortunate Ones (Jerry Stubbs and Gary Young) w/Greg Gagne 

The bell rings and chaos ensues. Canek and Blackwell trade big blows. George and Strong are exchanging punches. Dream and Rich are brawling and tearing into each other. The Guerreros and Fortunate Ones trade blows. Even Mando and Gagne are fighting. The Ref finally gets control. 

The first 15 minutes, everybody gets their moments. Canek dazzles the fans with his power and high flying offense. Rich brings his Southern fighting fire. Strong uses his strength and brings it hard. The Guerreros shine with their stereo moves and chemistry. On the flip side, Blackwell lives up to his moniker with some crushing offense. Dream Machine shows off his dancing and boxing skills but gets serious when need be. George brings the aggressive technical game. The Fortunate Ones put their teamwork to good use and impress. On the outside, Gagne can't do much with Mando watching him closely. 

After 15 minutes, Rich and Dream are going at it. Rich hits a flying press 1..2..George kicks Rich, which brings in everybody and another pier six brawl breaks out. The Guerreros stereo dropkick The Fortunate Ones out of the ring. Canek sends Blackwell through the ropes with a running forearm blast. Strong back drops George over the top rope. The Guerreros grab Dream Machine as Rich goes to the top rope. The Guerreros double suplex Dream as Rich crashes down with a flying elbow drop 1..2..3! 

Dream Machine eliminated.

The Ref regains order. Gagne gets on the apron but Mando yanks him down and punches away. Gagne's Gang drops off the apron and punch away on Mando. Canek, Strong and The Guerreros run over and brawl with them on the outside. The Ref is trying to get order. Rich goes to the ropes and looks like he's going to dive to the outside, but Dream Machine runs in with a chair and nails Rich across the back! Rich falls back and down. Dream takes off. Blackwell gets in the ring and splashes Rich. The ref runs over and counts 1..2..3!

Johnny Rich eliminated

After a bit, things get controlled. Strong is pinballing Young all over the ring. Young frantically tags in Stubbs. Strong hammers away on Stubbs and atomic drops him into the corner. Stubbs crashes into the turnbuckles and quickly tags in George. Strong is all over George with power moves. Strong picks up George and delivers a hanging vertical suplex. Strong swings off the ropes but Blackwell blasts him on the back of his head with a forearm club. Canek runs in but the Ref guides him back. George picks up Strong and executes a Russian Leg Sweep 1..2..3! 

Billy Jack Strong eliminated

George rises as Canek grabs him and hits a Bridging Back suplex 1..2..3! 

Mike George eliminated 

Blackwell gets in there but Canek is ready and punches away. Canek swings off the ropes but Gagne reaches in and trips him. Mando tackles Gagne and unloads. Inside the ring, Blackwell shoulder blocks Canek down. Blackwell picks up Canek and slams him down. Blackwell hits a delayed knee drop 1..2..Kick Out. Blackwell swings Canek into the corner and follows with an avalanche! Canek falls forward and down. Blackwell swings off the ropes and goes for a big splash but Canek moves. The Fortunate Ones run in but the Guerreros are all over them. The Ref regains control. Canek and Blackwell slowly rise. Blackwell charges but Canek uses the momentum and hurls Blackwell through the ropes. Canek takes a deep breath. Canek swings off the ropes. Blackwell staggers up as Canek dives through the ropes into Blackwell! Both men crash into the guard railing! MY goodness! The Ref starts the count 1..2..3..4..5..6..7..8..9..10! Neither man is moving. 

El Canek and Crusher Blackwell eliminated 

It's down to a tag match as the Guerreros and Fortunate Ones put on a clinic. The Guerreros have the upper hand. They swing Young to the ropes and double back drop him. Stubbs runs in and gets double dropkicked through the ropes. Stubbs is pissed and pushes Mando down. Chavo sees this and runs to the outside and pounds away on Stubbs. Inside the ring Hector swings off the ropes but Gagne gets on the apron and clocks the back of Hector's head. Hector stumbles into a tornado DDT by Young 1..2..3! 

Hector Guerrero eliminated

Chavo realizes what just happened and slides into the ring. Young charges but Chavo back drops him. Young bounces up and tags in Stubbs. Stubbs runs in but Chavo hip tosses him over. Stubbs gets up and charges but gets hip tossed again. Chavo's on fire and is all over Stubbs. Chavo slams Stubbs and goes to the top rope. As Stubbs rises, Chavo hits a sunset flip from the top rope 1..2..NO! Young clotheslines Chavo! The momentum carries Stubbs over 1..2..3! NO WAY! 

Chavo Guerrero eliminated

The Fortunate Ones have survived. 

Gagne is beaten up but gets in the ring and hugs his team, then gloats down at Mando. The fans are not happy, especially when Gagne points to himself and gives the 'number one' sign. 

Winners of the Match- Crusher Blackwell, Mike George, Dream Machine and The Fortunate Ones

 

 

INTERMISSION 

During the intermission, Larry Nelson recaps tonight's events and reminds the fans about all the great AWA merchandise available such as action figures, toy rings, T-Shirts and posters. He also reminds them of the next AWA pay per view, the biggest event of the Summer, WrestleRock 88, coming in July from the Metrodome. The lights flicker and we're ready for more great action. 

 

 

The Ultimate Warrior vs. 'Quebecer' Richard Charland w/Frenchy Martin 

Boos as Frenchy enters the ring waving the Quebec Flag. Charland enters the ring wearing a glitter blue jacket with the Quebec Flag on the back. They take turns insulting the booing fans. 

There's a pause and then a cannon blasts followed by the last part of AC/DC's 'For those about to Rock'. The fans are in complete awe as the Warrior sprints down the aisle. 

Warrior slides in the ring but Frenchy and Charland are all over him, stomping away. They pick Warrior up, swing him to the ropes and go for a double clothesline, but Warrior ducks, swings back and clotheslines them both down. Charland and Frenchy roll to the outside. Warrior pumps his arms up and down as the fans go wild. He's won them over already. 

The Ref signals for the bell and the match is officially started. Charland gets on the apron. Warrior runs over and punches away, then suplexes him back in the ring. Frenchy hops on the apron, Warrior grabs him and lifts him off his feet. From behind, Charland staggers up and nails Warrior with a high knee to the back. Frenchy falls down and to the ground. 

Charland swings Warrior into the corner and follows with a running knee to the mid section. Charland hits Warrior with several knees to the mid section. Charland picks Warrior up and gut wrench suplexes him over. Charland hops on the middle ropes and comes down with a boot to Warrior's chest. Charland does the 'break him in half' signal to the fans. Charland picks up Warrior and hits his Inverted piledriver 1..2..Kick Out! Warrior bounces up and starts shaking.

Charland is in shock. Frenchy's on the outside with a look of horror. Warrior hops up and starts running in place. Charland hits him but Warrior keeps shaking. Warrior unloads on Charland, swings him to the ropes and puts him down with a flying shoulder block. Warrior runs the ropes back and forth. Charland staggers up as Warrior hits another flying shoulder block. Warrior swings Charland to the ropes and clotheslines him down. Warrior pumps up, then picks Charland up and Military Presses him above his head! Warrior drops Charland down, swings off the ropes and hits a body splash 1..2..3! Thundering POP! Warrior sprints around the ring, then sprints up the aisle. 

The Winner of the Match- The Ultimate Warrior 

 

 

Title vs. Title! 

AWA Mid-American Champ Austin Idol vs. AWA TV Champ Larry Zbyszko 

The Ref holds up both titles, Larry runs over and snatches them. He holds them up proudly, nods and looks over at Idol with an arrogant sneer. The fans are booing big time. Boos turn to cheers as Idol comes from behind, grabs Larry by the hair and hurls him over the top rope. Idol picks up both titles and holds them up as the fans go wild. 

The bell rings but Larry's still outside and playing his stalling game. Idol goes to the ropes and does a little foot twist that totally irks Larry. Larry turns to the cheering fans and starts yelling at them. Idol reaches down and pulls Larry up by his hair. Idol snap mares Larry back into the ring. Idol snap mares Larry again and follows with a running neck snap. Larry gets up to his knees as Idol dropkicks Larry's chest. Idol picks up Larry and chops him across the chest. Larry falls back and almost falls through the ropes but Idol grabs Larry's boots and slingshots him up into the bottom rope. Idol pulls Larry out, grabs his leg and drops several elbows on it. Idol picks up Larry and hits a shin breaker. The fans are on their feet as Idol clamps on the Las Vegas Leglock! Larry frantically grabs the ropes. Idol releases as Larry slides out of the ring. 

Larry limps around, then walks to the ringside table and takes his TV title. Larry starts to walk away. Fans are throwing trash at him. Idol goes out after him. Larry swings around and nails Idol with the TV title. The Ref was exiting from the ring and didn't see this. Larry sets his title back down, then picks up idol and hurls him back in the ring. Larry slides in and covers 1..2..Idol gets his shoulder up! Larry is throwing a tantrum. Larry picks up Idol and executes a spin kick into Idol's mid section. Larry picks up Idol and hits a double underhook suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Larry slams his fist on the mat and yells at the Ref. Larry swings Idol to the ropes and flips him over with a knee to the gut. Larry picks up Idol and throat drops him on the top rope 1..2..Idol gets his foot on the rope. Larry hurls Idol to the outside.

Larry spends to much time bickering with the fans. Larry goes to the apron. Idol staggers up. Larry jumps off and goes for a double axehandle but Idol flips Larry over with a punch to the gut. Idol shakes the cobwebs, drops down and punches away on Larry's head. Idol hurls Larry back into the ring. Idol swings Larry to the ropes and back drops him. Idol grabs Larry and hits a jawbreaker 1..2..Kick Out. Idol swings Larry into the turnbuckles and charges in but Larry stumbles into the Ref as Idol crashes into both of them. The Ref falls down and to the outside. 

Idol picks up Larry and hits a shin breaker, then quickly clamps on the Las Vegas Leglock! Larry's screaming in pain and nodding his head that he gives up. 

Wait a minute! 

LANNY POFFO (wearing glitter makeup) appears and climbs to the top rope! What's he doing here?!?!?! 

Lanny crashes down with a knee drop on Idol's head. Lanny picks up Idol and slams him down, then goes back up to the top rope and comes down with a moonsault! Lanny slides to the outside and rolls the Ref back in the ring. Lanny bolts back up the aisle. Larry slowly rolls over and covers Idol 1..2..3! WOW! 

Larry rolls out of the ring and limps over to the table. He grabs both titles and holds them up high as the fans boo. 

Winner of the match TV Champ and now AWA Mid -American Champ Larry Zbyszko 

 

 

AWA World Tag Team Title Bout 

'Dynamite' DJ Peterson and 'Mr. Magnificent' Kevin Kelly (C) w/The Vin Man vs. The Bruise Brothers 

The Bruise Brothers are all business as they wait in the ring. Vinnie leads his champs to the ring as Queen's 'We are the Champions' blasts over the speakers. All three men are wearing Hawaiian shirts. DJ and Kelly are wearing matching gold trunks, knee pads and boots. 

Vinnie smiles bright as he holds the titles high in the air. Vinnie exits and the bell rings.

The Bruise Brothers waste no time and are all over the champs. They swing DJ to the ropes and double clothesline him down. They pick Kelly up and double slam him down. The Ref gets order. Cameron is all over Kelly, tossing him like a rag doll all over the ring. Cameron tags in Atlas and he pinballs Kelly all over the place. Kelly staggers up, falls back and tags in DJ. DJ locks up with Atlas and clamps on a headlock but Atlas hoists him up executes a back suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Atlas tags in Cameron. They swing DJ to the ropes and hit him with a double back elbow smash 1..2..Kelly runs in and breaks it. Atlas barrels over Kelly. The Ref guides Atlas back as Kelly staggers up and nails Cameron from behind.

DJ's still out of it as Kelly calls him over for a tag. DJ tags him in. Kelly picks up Cameron and goes for a suplex but Cameron blocks it and suplexes Kelly. Cameron tags in Atlas. Atlas swings Kelly to the ropes and puts him down with a forearm blast. Atlas presses Kelly over his head and basically throws him over to DJ. DJ reaches down and tags in. 

DJ charges as Atlas goes for a clothesline, DJ ducks it but as he swings off the ropes, Cameron nails him with a knee to the back. DJ stumbles as Atlas clotheslines him down. Kelly stumbles in but Cameron clotheslines him over the top rope. DJ staggers up against the ropes as the Bruise Brothers send him over the top with stereo double axehandles! Vinnie runs over to try and get his champs together. 

The Ref guides Cameron back and holds Atlas off as he starts the 10 count. Kelly's still laid out. DJ stumbles around and staggers towards the apron. Vinnie ducks down. The Ref hits 8. DJ manages to get on the apron but Vinnie grabs his boot. DJ's wondering what's going on as he tries to shake Vinnie off. The Ref hits 10. What??? 

Vinnie quickly lets go of DJ's boot, runs over and grabs the tag titles. Vinnie helps Kelly up. DJ regains his senses and goes over to question Vinnie. Vinnie holds up the titles and yells "They're still ours! You guys did it, yea!" The 3 of them walk back up the aisle as DJ is still questioning Vinnie while Vinnie keeps showing him the titles. Inside the ring, the Brusie Brothers are furious and arguing with the Ref. 

Winners of the match by C.O.- The Bruise Brothers. However, still AWA World Tag Team Champs- DJ Peterson and Kevin Kelly 

 

 

'The Russian Nightmare' Nikita Koloff vs. 'Gentleman' Chris Adams w/Baby Doll 

The heat is on! The fans are pumped up for this one. Massive boos as Baby Doll leads Adams to the ring. Adams gives the fans a disgusted look as Baby Doll holds the ropes for him. They parade around the ring taking the boos in. Huge roar as Nikita heads down the aisle. His eyes are locked on Adams the entire time. Adams quickly exits as Nikita enters the ring. The introductions are made while Adams is still on the outside. The bell rings, Baby Doll's still in the ring. She walks up and has words with Nikita, then slaps him. Nikita pauses, then gets right in her face. Adams sneaks to the top rope, but Nikita turns around, runs over and throws Adams off the top rope and across the ring! Baby Doll gets out of there.

Adams staggers up as Nikita scoop slams him down. Adams slowly gets up favoring his back as Nikita scoop slams him down again. Nikita swings Adams hard into the turnbuckles. Nikita walks over and enjoys punching the face of Adams. Nikita then gives Adams several shoulder thrusts in the corner. Nikita pulls Adams out and vertical suplexes him 1..2..Adams gets his foot on the ropes. Nikita reaches over to pick up Adams, but Baby Doll reaches in and scratches Nikita's eyes. 

Nikita is throwing fists in the air and rubbing his eyes. Adams grabs Nikita and hurls him over the top rope. Adams gets a much needed breather. Baby Doll runs over and gives Nikita a back scratch. Adams goes to the apron and kicks Nikita's head. Adams jumps down, grabs Nikita and hurls him into the ring steps. Adams slams Nikita on the concrete, then hurls him back in the ring. Adams gets in the ring, swings Nikita to the ropes and hits a high dropkick 1..2..Kick Out. Adams grabs Nikita and executes a German Suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Adams goes to the top rope and crashes down with a knee drop but Nikita moves. Both men are down and reeling. 

Adams limps up as Nikita punches away, swings him to the ropes and back drops him. Adams staggers up as Nikita grabs him and hits a back suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Nikita swings Adams into the turnbuckles and follows with a running clothesline. Nikita picks up Adams for a vertical suplex but Baby Doll reaches in and trips him. Adams falls on top 1..2..Kick Out.

Adams shakes the cobwebs and kicks down on Nikita. Adams slams Nikita's head on the turnbuckle and follows with a reverse neckbreaker 1..2..Kick Out. Adams gets pissed and starts punching down on Nikita's nose. Nikita's nose starts bleeding. Adams picks up Nikita and drops him with a Snake Eyes on the top turnbuckle. Baby Doll cheers Adams on as he holds his arms out in pure arrogance. Adams picks up Nikita, swings him to the ropes and goes for his Superkick but Nikita ducks it, swings off the ropes and mows Adams over with a shoulder block. 

The fans cheer as Nikita soaks it in and fires up. Adams staggers up as Nikita grabs him, whips him in the corner and goes to town with kicks, stomps and punches. The fans are going nuts as Nikita brutalizes Adams. Baby Doll gets on the apron, but this time the Ref yells at her and tells her she better get down. Nikita grabs Adams by his hair and throws him across the ring. Nikita picks up Adams, swings him to the ropes and hits a belly to belly suplex (That one's for you Magnum!) Nikita picks up Adams, swings him to the ropes and hits the Russian Sickle! 1..2..3!!!! Mega Pop! 

Baby Doll is yelling at the Ref and pushes him. Adams is laid out. Nikita hops on the turnbuckles and pumps his fists to the cheering crowd. 

Winner of the Match- Nikita Koloff 

 

 

Larry Nelson: Fans, what a night this has been. The Ultimate Warrior has arrived! Larry Zbyszko is now a dual champion, but the question is what was Lanny Poffo doing here? Vinnie somehow manages to keep the world tag titles under very questionable tactics. And Nikita Koloff gets his payback. Well, we're not quite done. Champagne Slam continues with the world title bout. Let's get to it! 

 

 

AWA World Title Bout

Bad News Brown (C) vs. Carlos Colon 

Big time cheers as Colon heads up the aisle, enters the ring with a somersault, hops up and pumps his fists. Brown casually walks up the aisle with an intense look. The title is on his shoulder. He enters the ring, holds up the title to the crowd, turns to Colon, holding the title high. The introductions are made. The Ref walks around with the title as the fans cheer. He signals for the bell and here we go. 

Brown pushes Colon, Colon pushes back. Brown punches Colon, Colon fires back and this turns into an epic fight. They trade punches, fall to the ground, roll around punching each other, fall to the outside and continue fighting. Brown gets the upper hand and slams Colon headfirst into the steel post. Colon is busted open! Brown hurls Colon into the ring. Brown gets inside, hops on the middle ropes. Colon staggers up as Brown drops a fist to Colon's head. Brown hits a standing leg drop 1..2..Colon gets his shoulder up. Brown swings Colon to the ropes but misses a clothesline, Colon swings back and puts Brown down with a flying clothesline. 

Colon wipes the blood from his face. Brown staggers up as Colon hits a Thesz Press, then starts pounding away on Brown's head. Colon hurls Brown to the outside. Colon goes out, picks up Brown, runs with him and slams him headfirst into the steel post. Now Brown is bleeding bad. Colon hurls Brown into the ring. Colon climbs to the top rope. Brown slowly staggers up as Colon nails him with a flying clothesline 1..2..Brown gets his foot on the ropes. Colon swings Brown to the ropes, punches him in the gut and follows with a knee lift that sends Brown flying. Colon splashes on Brown 1..2..Brown gets his foot on the rope. Colon reaches down but Brown grabs his singlet and hurls him through the ropes. 

Brown rolls over and tries to regroup. Brown uses the ropes to help himself up. Colon gets at the apron but Brown baseball slides him back against the guard rail. Brown staggers to the outside. Brown sets Colon on the apron, then gives him an elbow to his throat. Brown pushes Colon into the ring. Brown swings Colon to the ropes and back drops him, then follows with a standing fist drop 1..2..Kick Out. Brown whips Colon hard into the corner. Colon staggers out as Brown picks him up and gives him a running powerslam 1..2..Colon gets his shoulder up. Brown swings Colon into the corner and charges but Colon lifts his knees and Brown hits them head on. Colon is resting against the turnbuckles. 

Brown rises as Colon grabs him and puts him down with a jumping headbutt. The fans are going bonkers as Colon pumps his fists. Colon picks up Brown and hits another jumping headbutt. Colon swings Brown to the ropes and back drops him. Brown staggers up as Colon executes a flying head scissors. Brown groggily rises as Colon hits another flying head scissors. Colon goes to the top rope. Brown stands up and spins around as Colon hits a flying press 1..2..Brown gets his shoulder up. Colon can't believe it. Colon picks up Brown but Brown spins around and mule kicks him. Both men fall down. Both men are bleeding bad. 

Both men start to rise. They slowly trade punches, then it turns into a slugfest. Brown swings Colon to the ropes, Colon comes back as both men clothesline each other down! Both men are out. The Ref checks them over and starts the count. 1..2..3..4..5..6 (they start to move) 7..8..9..They both manage to get to their feet. From out of nowhere, Brown hits Colon with the Ghetto Blaster 1..2..3!!!! 

Both men are still lying next to each other. The Ref gets the title and hands it down to Brown. Brown slowly rolls out of the ring and manages to hold the title up. He looks in at Colon and gives a slight nod before leaving. When Colon manages to stand, the fans give him a standing ovation. 

Winner of the Match and still AWA World Champion- Bad News Brown

 

 

We go back up to the V.I.P. suite with Gerry Morrow and Brenda Britton. 

Britton: Oh Gerry, that was incredible! What a night and it's all thanks to you! 

Morrow: AHHHHH Brenda, it was indeed. All I can say is another toast to Champagne Slam. 

The event ends with Morrow and Britton toasting. 

 

 

 

 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

Venomous gets their groove back in the dark match.

Grizz felt the absence of his manager tonight.

 Starr on the other hand, shows he can go it alone.

Oliver proves he's the premier Crippler in the AWA.

Busick gets the DQ win but I gotta feeling this isn't done yet.

The Fortune Ones bring it home for the Gagne Gang.

WrestleRock 88! Aww yeah!

The Warrior makes the Ultimate debut.

Thanks to Lanny Poffo, we know have to suffer through Larry 2 belts.

DJ doesn't seem to approve of how Vin Man retained the tag titles.

Love Nikita hitting the belly to belly on Adams.

Brown survives a war with Colon with his title in tact.

[LastStopTour]

Sold show that was well built to.

Good win for Scott Putski over a pretty big guy. Hopefully, he can use that and move into another program.

Was a bit surprised that Busick picked up the win. Sure a DQ but I am sure he'll happily take the victory.

Successful debut for the Warrior. I imagine the only ones surprised by it are Charland and Frenchy 

Larryland for the win. Makes me happy.

Chris Adams and Nikita in one of the better matches on the card and Nikita comes out on top. Huge win for him.

Colon and Brown did not disappoint. Bloody match as expected which could have gone either way.

[kevinmcfl]

WOW... WOW...WOW... What an event.  I admit that I have been a little busy of late and forgot some of the matches as I read down the show and each match seemed to get me more and more excited to see where you were taking the AWA next.

I will admit that I was surprised at Chicky Starr took out Al Perez and this is only because of my lack on knowledge on Chicky.  Everyone who has him always puts him in a big role and it is my fault for not doing more research.

At this point of their careers, I think you had the better Crippler win but there was something in my rooting for the old, nostalgic Crippler.

Nice job continuing your star building of Bully Busick.  You have made him a big time name in this game.  Also, in this event, you may have begun the star building of Kokina.  Many of us have head but weren't sure what to do with him. I'm sure with your ability, that will all change!

Greg Gagne knows just how to get under my skin.  No, you are not #1!!  lol

And the era of the Warrior begins.  If ever there was a sacrificial lamb in this game, it was Charland.

Moment of the night #1 ... Poffo comes out in glitter.  Awesome booking.  

Moment of the night #2... the ode to Magnum T.A.... Nikita with the Belly to Belly.  Very historically accurate.  Nice job with the whole Koloff-Adams feud.

Moment of the night #3... the entire Colon-Bad News match.  I would love more!

[spaldoni]

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center in 4-21-88

 

A video montage is shown with all the highlights from Champagne Slam. It ends with Bad News Brown rolling out of the ring after another successful world title defense, this time over a game Carlos Colon. 

 

Larry Nelson: Hello fans and welcome to another edition of AWA Major League Wrestling. Champagne Slam is in the books and what a historic event it was. You'll be hearing more about throughout tonight's show. Speaking of tonight, you'll see the Gunslingers take on Badd Co. Also, Billy Jack Strong goes up against Mike George. We also have the debut of the Luscious One, Lanny Poffo, who made a shocking appearance at Champagne Slam. Right now, I would like to bring out the AWA C.O.O. Gerry Morrow, who has some exciting announcements to make. 

Morrow comes out, wearing his white suit, fedora hat and sunglasses. 

Morrow: Champagne Slam was a tremendous event for de AWA. Simply put, it was outstanding. And now, de AWA moves on to more exciting things. In de month of May, I'm very excited to announce dat de AWA will be coming to Alaska at de Sullivan Arena on May 12th for de next Title Night. Also, on May 27th, de annual Memorial Day tournament comes to de St. Paul Civic Center, where de winner will receive de coveted world title shot at WrestleRock. With all dat being said, I would now like to bring out our new AWA Mid-American Champion and current TV champion, Larry Zbyszko. 

Boooooos as Larry struts out with more arrogance than ever. 

Morrow: Larry, congratulations on winning de Mid American title.

Nelson: Hold on Larry, in all fairness to Austin idol, you did receive help from Lanny Poffo. What was that all about? 

Zbyszko: (looks at Nelson with distain) You know Nelson, only you could ruin a special moment like this. Do us all a favor and just walk away, will you. I mean, shouldn't Brenda Britton be out here anyways. 

Nelson shakes his head and rolls his eyes. 

Morrow: HAHAHA, Brenda is away on important business otherwise she would be out here with me. Now, as I was saying, congratulations Larry. I am a firm believer in standing by a Referee's decision and so dat is dat. Mr. Idol will get his rematch in due time, but right now I want to talk about de TV title. Larry, as you know de rules state we can't have a dual champion. Your accomplishment is in de history books and you should be proud. 

Zbyszko: Thank you very much Gerry. I'm glad you recognize greatness when you see it. I will be the greatest Mid American champion of all time. So, on that note, I will gladly hand over the TV title. 

Morrow takes the title and shakes hands with Zbyszko. Zbyszko holds his Mid American title up high, gives Nelson a dirty look and walks away. 

Morrow: Ok, as for de TV title. I define de word luck as skill meeting opportunity. In de back I put several deserving names in a hat and drew out two. The lucky names drawn were Brian Adias and Dream Machine. Those two will meet in tonight's main event and de winner will be crowned our new TV Champion! Ok, enough talk, let us get to de action. 

 

Chicky Starr vs. Trent Watkins 

Chicky executes a vertical suplex, gets up, swings off the ropes and hits a corkscrew elbow drop for the win. 

Chicky cuts a promo and brags about his Champagne Slam win over Al Perez. He mentions his former manager DDP and says he realized something he knew all along, he doesn't need anybody's help or guidance. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

'Crippler' Rip Oliver vs. William Hillman 

Oliver gets the win with the piledriver! 

 

Nelson: Rip, at Champagne Slam you defeated the legendary Ray Stevens in the battle of the cripplers. And I've just been told that a world title shot is coming your way on May 12th, in Alaska at Title Night.  

Oliver: No doubt about it, Ray Stevens is a legend but he made a big mistake coming after me. However, he did light a fire under me and now I'm getting a world title shot. I understand Bad News Brown is on vacation. Well, Bad News Brown better not get to relaxed and better get ready because the Crippler is coming after him and the world title! 

 

Commercial Break

 

Nelson is standing with Greg Gagne, Mike George, the Fortunate Ones and Crusher Blackwell. 

Nelson: (deep breath) With me now is the so called Gagne's Gang. 

Gagne: Watch your tone Larry! You know, Zbyszko's right, you really are a wet blanket. But not even a damper like you can spoil my celebration. At Champagne Slam, Gagne's Gang was triumphant! Victory was ours! We ruled! I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my Fortunate Ones. They survived the match and got us the big W. (Gagne hugs Stubbs and Young as Blackwell and George pat them on the back) Big things are coming our way. Blackwell is going to exterminate that masked moron El Canek once and for all. My Fortunate Ones will be wearing gold in no time and coming up next, the Marvelous One will easily dispatch that pest Billy Jerk Strong. We're outta here! 

 

Commercial Break 

 

'Marvelous' Mike George w/Greg Gagne vs. Billy Jack Strong 

The bell rings and Strong is all over George, swings him to the ropes and backdrops him. George staggers up as Strong scoop slams him down and follows with a standing leg drop 1..2..Kick Out. Strong hops on the turnbuckles but Gagne reaches in and grabs his leg. Strong shakes him off and hops down. While Gagne distracts him, George comes from behind and clotheslines Strong through the ropes. George distracts the Ref as Gagne runs over and stomps away on Strong, then rolls him back in the ring. 

George picks up Strong and gives him a delayed vertical suplex, then follows with a delayed knee drop 1..2..Kick Out. George picks up Strong and slams him down, then hops up on the middle ropes and comes down with a forearm drop 1..2..Kick Out. George swings Strong into the corner and charges in but Strong moves. 

Strong regroups, swings George into the opposite corner and follows with a running clothesline. Strong grabs George and executes an overhead German suplex. Strong picks up George, but Gagne hops on the apron. Strong drops George, runs over, grabs Gagne by his shirt and lifts him in the air. George staggers up and charges over with a high knee, but Strong moves as George knees Gagne off the apron. Strong grabs George and hits a bridging back suplex 1..2..3! Big POP! 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Highlights are shown from the Toast to the Tag Team's Tournament as Mean Streak double choke slam a Referee after their loss to the Glamour Boys. 

 

We then see Mike Miller riding a Chopper. He pulls into a Biker Bar and goes in. He looks around at all the tough guys, then walks to the back. Two big and bad looking twin brothers (The Harris Brothers) are sitting at a table. Miller walks up to them. 

Miller: You know the AWA suspended me and my partner. And you also know we have unfinished business with those two punks, the Glamour Boys. This is all because of them! I need you to handle the problem. 

Miller throws a bag on the table. The Harris Brothers look in and nod to each other. 

Ron Harris: Don't worry.

Don Harris: Problem solved. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

The arena lights turn off, then a spotlight shines up the aisle. Confetti falls from the ceiling as Karma Chameleon by Boy George plays over the speakers. Out comes Lanny Poffo wearing glitter make up. He skips down the aisle and springs over the top rope and into the ring. He holds his arms out as he continues to prance around the ring. He grabs the mic.

"Lucious Lanny has arrived" 

 

'Lucious' Lanny Poffo vs. Todd Roney 

Poffo backs up all his crazy antics in the ring. Say what you want, but the man has skill. He body slams his opponent, climbs to the top rope and hits a moonsault for the win. 

 

Nelson: Ok Poffo, I have to ask, why are you here and why did you attack Austin Idol at Champagne Slam? 

Poffo: You will refer to me as the Lucious One. Do I make myself perfectly clear? 

Nelson: This has been a long night. Fine, whatever you say. 

Poffo: Now, I will address one Austin Idol. For months I've been watching him showboat and make a mockery of the great sport of wrestling. He is a weak and feeble man. I am a real man, I am a real wrestler. This sport has no room for an interloper like Idol. I have made it a personal mission to rid this sport of scum like Idol. When all is said and done, Idol will be a forgotten soul and the name Lucious Lanny will be etched in stone forever! 

 

Commercial Break 

 

The Gunslingers vs. Badd Co. 

These two teams had an epic overtime match at the Toast to the Tag Teams Tournament. Tonight's dynamics are a bit different. Unlike Chicky Starr, Badd Co. seem a little lost without their former manager DDP. 

The Gunslingers control the early segment with quick in and out tags combined with some sweet stereo moves. Badd Co comes back and gets it together for awhile until a miscue allows Mantell to make the hot tag to Casey. Casey is fired up and cleaning house. Casey powerslams Tanaka but Diamond breaks the pin, which sends in Mantell. A pier six brawl breaks out. The Gunslingers double dropkick Diamond out of the ring. They swing Tanaka to the ropes and double back drop him. Tanaka staggers up as Casey hits the running bulldog 1..2..3! Gunslingers pump their fists to the cheering fans as Badd Co try to regroup. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Nelson: Before we get to our main event, joining me now are the AWA world tag team champs, DJ Peterson and Kevin Kelly, along with the Vin Man. 

Queen's We are the Champions plays as Vinnie leads his champs to ringside. 

Nelson: Vinnie, your boys retained the titles at Champagne Slam but under very shady circumstances. 

Vinnie: Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Come on Larbo! We walked out as champs and that's all that matters. Right guys? 

Kevin: That's right Vin Man! We said we were going to do it and just look at these titles, we did do it. Tell them DJ.

DJ: (long pause) Look Vinnie, I already told you. I didn't like what you did and I won't tolerate that kind of nonsense. We're champions and we're supposed to defend these titles with honor and respect.

Vinnie and Kevin chuckle. DJ gives them a stern look and they stop.

Kelly: Come on DJ, lighten up, will you? We're a team and we need to be in sync. Got it! 

DJ: Watch yourself Kevin. 

Vin: Ok, ok, ok, let's all just relax. Kev's right, we're a team and if we get out of sync, we won't be champs for very much longer. DJ, I hear you loud and clear. Let's move on and put this all behind us. It won't happen again. Vinnie's honor.

DJ and Kevin glare at each other, then settle down. 

Vin: You see, all good. We're the champs and it's going to stay that way, yea! 

Nelson: Not so sure about that. Fans, next week, Nikita Koloff will be in action, and get this, Greg Gagne has requested a loser leaves town match between Billy Jack Strong and Mike George. Well, Strong has accepted and that happens next week. And get this, the Ultimate Warrior will be in action! It all happens next week. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

For the AWA TV Title

Brian Adias vs. The Dream Machine 

The bell rings and Dream offers a handshake. Before Adias has time to react, Dream kicks him in the mid section and executes a gut wrench suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Dream chokes away on Adias and breaks at the Ref's count. Dream chokes Adias again and again, breaks at the count. Dream picks up Adias and rakes his face across the top rope, chokes him on the top rope and flings him back. Dream picks up Adias, swings him to the ropes and goes for a back drop, but Adias kicks him hard. 

Adias regroups. Dream staggers up as Adias dropkicks Dream down. Dream gets up and charges but Adias hip tosses him over. Dream gets up and charges again, but Adias back drops him. Dream staggers up as Adias hits a jawbreaker 1..2..Kick Out. Dream quickly rolls out of the ring and is in no hurry to get back in. Adias goes to the ropes but Dream grabs his boots, yanks him down and pulls him to the outside. 

Dream slams Adias's head on the apron and hurls him back in the ring. Dream goes to the middle ropes. Adias staggers up as Dream nails him with a double axehandle 1..2..Kick Out. Dream works Adias over with rabbit punches, stomps, choking, kicks and punches. Dream hoists Adias up for a suplex but Adias fights it and suplexes Dream over. 

Both men are reeling. Dream staggers up as Adias clotheslines him over the top rope. The Ref is keeping Adias in the ring. Dream rolls over, reaches in his tights and pulls out a foreign object. Dream is getting ready to put it in his mask.

Wait! Johhny Rich comes from the crowd, hops the guard rail and yanks the object out of Dream's hand. Dream is livid as Rich runs back into the crowd. Dream gets ready to chase Rich, but Adias jumps off the apron and nails Dream with a double axehandle. Adias hurls Dream back in the ring. Adias goes to the top rope. Dream staggers up, spins around as Adias connects with a missile dropkick 1..2..3!!!! We have a new AWA TV Champ! 

The fans are up and cheering. Adias's tag team partner Ricky Rice runs in the ring and celebrates with Adias. Gerry Morrow walks in the ring, shakes Adias's hand and presents him with the TV title. Adias holds it high as the fans cheer. 

Winner of the match and NEW AWA TV Champ- Brian Adias 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

Poor Nelson, dude had a rough night.

Morrow making some big announcements, AWA headed north to Alaska for Title Night, the Memorial day tournament is back and the vacated TV will be awarded in the main event.

Starr's landed on his feet without DDP but Badd Company is struggling to do the same.

Oliver gets a world title shot in Alaska. Much deserved.

Billy Jack Strong makes Gagne eat his words. Can he do it again next week when Loser Leaves Town?

The Harris Brothers could definitely solve a problem.

Lucious Lanny is here to show us all what a real man looks like.

What happens to Synergy now that Adidas is TV champion?

[kevinmcfl]

I really enjoyed all the back and forth with Larry Nelson.  I could just picture his head shake and eye roll.  Very historically accurate.  

I am really glad the Harris brothers are with you.  You always make great things out of people I struggled with.  

I always wondered what wrestling in Alaska would be like.  I beat this is going to be one tough crowd.

Poffo vs Idol is very interesting to me.  Can't wait to see were you go with this.  

You are so good at changing gears from show to show and this was no different.  Awesome job.

 

[LastStopTour]

Sucks that Larry Z can't be a dual champion. I think he of all people would have been able to easily defend both titles within the 30 day time period. Shame on Larry Nelson for trying to rain on Larry Z's parade.

With the title being stripped and immediately being put right out there, glad to see Brian Adias pick up the belt. He'll be a good champion, while not being in the Von Erich shadow in Texas.

[LowBlowPodcast]

Bad News and Nikita are the prime timers right now in the AWA and their courses will hopefully collide soon.  Larry Z as a champ/champ would have also been a fun thing to see play out.

[spaldoni]

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center 4-28-88

 

Larry Nelson: Hello everybody and welcome to another edition of AWA Major League Wrestling. Tonight, you'll see Nikita Koloff.in action. Mike George takes on Billy Jack Strong in a loser leaves town match. Huge main event as Nick Busick teams with El Canek to take on Kokina and Crusher Blackwell. And yes, the Ultimate Warrior will make his televised wrestling debut. That and so much more, let's get to the ring. 

 

'The Russian Nightmare' Nikita Koloff vs. Winston Long 

The fans chant "Ni-ki-ta" throughout the match. Nikita finishes things off with the Russian Sickle! 

 

Nelson: Great win tonight, Nikita. Memorial Day Weekend at the St. Paul Civic Center, the annual eight man tournament takes place, with the winner getting a world title shot at WrestleRock. The eight men participating will be Carlos Colon, Chris Adams, Crusher Blackwell, El Canek, Chicky Starr, Tatsumi Fujinami, Mid American Champ Larry Zbyszko and Nikita Koloff. I'm sure you're looking forward to that.

Nikita: From the moment I came to the AWA, my sights have been set on the world title. Thanks to Chris Adams, I got off track. Now that that's over, I'm focused and ready to tear through the competition and earn that title shot! 

Nikita does his trap pose as the fans cheer. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

United Kingdom vs. Trent Watkins and Leon Johnson 

Taylor hits a double underhook suplex as Haystacks follows with a gigantic elbow drop for the win. 

 

United Kingdom talk about Haystacks going on an upcoming European tour while Taylor will stay here and continue to wipe out the pathetic American competition. He even mentions the Ultimate Warrior and how he would love to teach that joke a wrestling lesson. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

"The Universal Heartthrob' Austin Idol vs. Seth Maxwell 

Idol ends things quick with the Las Vegas Leglock. 

 

Nelson: Fans, on May 12th at the Sullivan Arena in Alaska, that's right Alaska, the AWA will hold its next Title Night. Austin Idol, you have been granted a rematch for the Mid American Title against Larry Zbyszko. I have to ask, with all this non sense going on with Lanny Poffo, will you be able to focus on Zbyszko and the Mid American Title? 

Idol: Lanny Poffo! You call yourself a man, well baby, you're the sorriest excuse for a man if I've ever seen one. You fit the bill of a coward and nothing more! You costed me the title and trust me darling, you're going to pay dearly. But, before I end you, I'm going to win back the Mid American Title! That's a fact Jack! 

 

Commercial Break

 

Loser Leaves Town Match! 

Billy Jack Strong vs. 'Marvelous' Mike George w/Greg Gagne 

The bell rings as Gagne distracts Strong, which allows George to nail Strong with a high knee to the back. George hurls Strong to the outside. George distracts the Ref as Gagne picks up Strong and slams his head on the apron, then hurls him back in the ring. George picks up Strong and gives him a Jawbreaker 1..2..Kick Out. Both George and Gagne berate the Ref. George swings Strong to the ropes and hits a sidewalk slam 1..2..Kick Out. Gagne and George are livid. George picks up Strong and swings him hard into the turnbuckles and charges in, but Strong nails him with both boots! 

George staggers up as Strong clotheslines him down. George staggers up as Strong scoop slams him down and follows with a jumping knee drop 1..2..Strong gets up because he sees Gagne going to the top rope. Strong runs over and grabs Gagne. As George staggers up, Strong throws Gagne like a dart into George! Strong picks up Gagne and hurls him over the top rope. Strong picks up George and hits an inverted piledriver 1..2..3!!!! Huge Pop! Mike George is out of the AWA. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

The Original Midnight Express w/Norvell Austin vs. Vic Dutro and Willie Lopez

Midnight's hit the double flapjack and it's all over. 

Cannonball Griz joins Norvell and the Midnights at ringside. 

 

Nelson: Norvell, your Midnights have a big opportunity coming up at Title Night. They get a National Tag Team title shot with Venomous. The last time those two teams met was in Puerto Rico. Also, next week, your man Cannonball Griz will wrestle Scott Putski for a TV title shot at Title Night.

Norvell: This just gets better and better, doesn't it? My Midnights whooped it up at the Crockett Cup, then went on a vacation to the Bahamas. Just to remind all these idiots, they earned that vacation by winning the Toast to the Tag Teams Tournament. Now, they're back, rested, recharged, rejuvenated and ready to take the titles from those masked freaks. In Puerto Rico, we left them laid out and knocked out! This time, we're going to do worse. Oh and my main man Griz is going to run right over Putski next week and then take the TV title from that fluke winning Brian Adias. What a night it will be! 

 

Commercial Break 

 

'The Wild One' Johnny Rich vs. Bruce Looper 

Rich hits the flying elbow drop from the top rope for the pin. 

 

Nelson: Johnny, last week Dream Machine was wrestling Brian Adias for the TV title. I believe you saved the day when you stopped Dream from loading a foreign object in his mask. I imagine that felt pretty good, since you probably haven't forgotten that chair shot he gave you at Champagne Slam.

Rich: Not gonna lie Larry, it felt damn good! Congratulations to Brian Adias on his TV title win. As for you Dream Machine, if you want to do something about what I did, come on and try boy! 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Hector and Chavo Guerrero w/Mando Guerrero vs. Hal White and Jersey Joe 

Hector back drops Joe. As Joe staggers up, Chavo hits a sunset flip from the top rope for the win! 

 

Nelson: Big news for the Guerreros, at Title Night, you get a world tag team title match with DJ Peterson and Kevin Kelly, watch out for the Vin Man. 

Hector: This is our first crack at the AWA world straps and we're more than ready brother! 

Chavo: We've held titles all over the world and it's time to add the AWA titles to our resume. 

Mando: Hey, don't worry about the Vin Man, that's what I'm here for! 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Nelson: Joining me right now is the new AWA TV Champ, Brian Adias. Brian, congratulations on winning the TV title. I'm sure you'll have a successful run. 

Brian: Thank you very much Larry. This title means more than you can imagine. I'm looking forward to defending it against all the top competition right here on TV. Right now, I would like to bring out my partner Ricky Rice. 

Rice comes out and hugs Brian. 

Brian: Ricky, you were there when I needed you and we made Synergy work. There was no way I was going to leave you high and dry. You and I figured this out and now it's time to tell everyone what's going on. Synergy will continue and we found a partner and man he's the perfect fit. We're talking about Scott Armstrong! 

Armstrong comes out and hugs Adias and Rice. Adias smiles and motions to the ring. 

 

Synergy (Ricky Rice and Scott Armstrong) vs. Sam Smith and Todd Rooney 

Rice and Armstrong are wearing matching black pants with a yellow stripe swirled around them and down to their yellow boots. 

They defiantly have chemistry as they execute several stereo moves before finishing things off with a double dropkick. Adias runs in and holds their arms up, then raises his TV title as the fans cheer. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Crusher Blackwell and Kokina w/Abbuda Iaukea vs. El Canek and Nick Busick w/Mando Guerrero

Gagne must still be reeling because he's not out here. 

A lot of bad blood here and I'm sure you know how this is going to go. The bell rings, Canek and Blackwell hammer away on each other as Kokina and Busick go toe to toe. On the outside, Iaukea starts something with Mando and sparks fly! Here we go, Gagne and the Fortunate Ones run out. Gagne helps Iaukea beat up on Mando as the Fortunate Ones hit the ring and attack Canek. The Ref signals for the DQ. Iaukea hits the ring and helps Kokina double team Busick. 

Wait a minute! 

The Guerreros and Billy Jack Strong storm out! 

The Guerreros pound away on the Fortunate Ones! Strong clotheslines Gagne down! Canek gets the upper hand on Blackwell. Iaukea and Kokina swing Busick to the ropes but miss a double clothesline, Busick swings back and clotheslines both of them! All hell is breaking loose as the commercial hits. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Nelson: Wow! Things got pretty crazy! (Deep Breath) Next week in action will be Carlos Colon, Chris Adams and Rip Oliver. The Glamour Boys take on Badd Co. Cannonball Griz will wrestle Scott Putski for a TV title shot at Title Night. And the AWA world champion, Bad News Brown will be joining us as well.  When we come back, the Ultimate Warrior will be in action. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

The Ultimate Warrior vs. Neil Jordan 

The cannon blasts, then goes right into 'Shoot to Thrill' by AC/DC 

The fans go wild as Warrior sprints down the aisle and into the ring. Warrior clotheslines Jordan down, picks him up, presses him high in the air and drops him down. Warrior swings off the ropes and hits the body splash for the 1..2..3! 

 

Nelson: My goodness! What a television debut for this man, the Ultimate Warrior. 

Warrior: Speak to me Warriors! (Huge cheers) Because of you, I was victorious at Champagne Slam and that was only the beginning! I fear no man and accept any challenge! (Shakes his head and arms) AAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH! 

Warrior sprints around the ring and back up the aisle as the show ends. 

 

 

 

 

[LastStopTour]

Big win for Strong to send Mike George packing.

The Warrior is a kook.

[Autistic Dragon]

Nikita has to be a favorite in the Memorial Day tournament.

Taylor calls out the Warrior while Haystacks takes a tour of Europe.

Idol has got two things on his mind, getting his title back from Zbyszko and getting his hands on Poffo.

Austin's men have two chances for gold.

Los Guerrero's get their shot at the still dysfunctional tag team champions. Mando will be there but the Vin Man is sneaky af.

The new Synergy is off to a hot start.

Bad night for Gagne has George is gone and their Pearl Harbor job doesn't pan out.

[Den Scorpio]

Title Night in Alaska is shaping up!

Liking the diverse field for the 8-man tournament. As Wrestlerock is one of biggest annual events for this game/industry, gut tells me the big showdown just may be Bad News vs. Nikita. I'll be in the sky box for that one. But for some reason, Fujinami won't go away as an alternative in my mind.

Great spot with United Kingdom, and Taylor biting off more than he can potentially chew by planting seeds before the Warrior even makes his TV debut. Organic TV writes itself.

Gagne "reeling" after the results of that Loser Leaves Town Match with George & Strong. I might have to agree with him, as I envisioned that finish happening differently. That's a big turn of events right there.

Armstrong officially joins Synergy, and they don't miss a beat. Strength in numbers or a gradual moving-on for Adias?

Nothing like some good TV main event chaos right out of the chute. THERE'S Gagne! And he's not alone. But the Guerreros & Strong ain't having it! Needed the Joey Styles "OH MY GOD!!" Could sense the bad blood here.

Warrior going on last made sense & worth the wait. Ends the show on a high note with a new star making his imprint on the weekly TV in a love fest with the fans. That's what makes 80's wrestling TV great.

Great job keeping Title Night at the forefront of everyone's minds. Part of the art of what we do is the ability to not only deliver great big shows, as best we can, but also to BUILD to them. That's what makes the journey special. Build vs. Payoff is the constant give-and-take, and it's pretty damn cool. Good stuff sir.

[kevinmcfl]

Big TV event with a Loser Leave Town Match... So long Mike George!

Gagne continues to prove why I hate him!!  Such a good job by you getting so much heat on Gagne.

Crusher Blackwell and Kokina w/Abbuda Iaukea vs. El Canek and Nick Busick w/Mando Guerrero--- Awesome match for TV plus the wild ending allows all these endings to continue.  Good job here.

Another good job getting so much out of Austin Idol.  He keeps going from one big angle to another and never skips a beat.  I could see him doing this in real life.  He was a great heel, babyface and was always good on the mic.  Good work here!

The slow rise of Warrior, from the weekly promos that he was coming to the match with the jobber allow his character to rise without having to get him in an angle right away.  Very smart.  

It is funny how we all love our territories and venues, me included.  That being said, I am really looking forward to your show in Alaska.  I think we all do a pretty good job of writing for our fans.  I try to do that Southern style in Mid-South and Memphis.  Den has WWF down for sure.  I think you and LowBlow are doing a great job with your roster and shows of growing towards that national audience, etc... LastStopTour has shown us any area can be very interesting if you write for your fans.  I wonder what a promotion in Alaska would look like.  Sounds like a fun project.

Great work!

[spaldoni]

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center 5-5-88

 

Larry Nelson: Hello everybody and welcome to another edition of AWA Major League Wrestling. Tonight, you'll see a rematch from Champagne Slam as Scott Putski takes on Cannonball Griz with a TV title shot at Title Night on the line. The Glamour Boys take on Badd Co. All that and a lot more including comments from the AWA world champ Bad News Brown. Let's go to the ring. 

 

'Crippler' Rip Oliver vs. Jorge Gonzales 

Oliver is aggressive tonight and finishes things off with the piledriver! 

 

Nelson: Ok, next weekend at the Sullivan Arena in Anchorage Alaska, the AWA will present its next Title Night event. Rip Oliver, you get your big shot at the world title. Are you prepared for Bad News Brown? 

Oliver: They call me Crippler for a reason. I proved that to Ray Stevens and now it's time to prove it to Bad News Brown. I'm focused, prepared and more than ready to take the gold. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

AWA National Tag Team Champs Venomous vs. Clyde Putnam and Ray Glader 

Venomous excites the fans and turn things way up when Cobra executes a suplerplex on Putnam and Kat follows with a frog splash for the win! 

Venomous cut a promo as Kat says they're not only going to retain at Title Night but they're going to get some sweet payback on the Midnight Express. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Nelson: Well, with me right now is Baby Doll and I believe she has something to say.

Baby Doll: That's right, I do, so just keep quiet for a minute Larry. My client Chris Adams has left the AWA. WCCW is back in business and Fritz made him an offer he couldn't refuse. It's business and I can accept that. Now, moving on. As you know, I managed Tommy Rich, who became AWA world champion. I've decided to try my luck again, only this time with a team. I've got my eye on a couple tag teams and when I decide who I will manage, trust me, I'm going to take them all the way. 

 

Commercial Break

 

The Glamour Boys vs. Badd Co. 

These teams go at it at a fever pitch. The match is a seesaw, high octane, back and forth encounter. Both teams show off their chemistry as they execute several stereo moves. After a few minutes, Badd Co. is in control as Doll plays the face in peril. Doll finally makes the hot tag and Simpson cleans house. Simpson keeps up the pace for a minute before Diamond nails him with a knee to the back from the apron. Badd Co regains control and Simpson takes a beating. Badd Co goes for a double back drop, but Simpson flips over and tags in Doll. Doll is on fire, until Badd Co start double teaming him. Simpson runs in and it's a pier six brawl. The Glamour Boys double dropkick Tanaka through the ropes. Diamond staggers around and is met with a double hot shot! Doll covers 1..2..3! Big POP! 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Dream Machine vs. Arnie Goldstein 

Dream swings off the ropes and hits a jumping elbow drop for the win. 

 

Nelson: Dream Machine, it looks like you and Johnny Rich still haven't settled things and next week right here on TV, you guys will go at it once again. 

Dream: Ya know, I heard old Johnny Boy out here last week talking a big game. Big talk from a wannabe Rich. Listen up babay! Next week I'm going to beat you up so bad, they're going to have to peel you off the mat! 

 

Commercial Break

 

Crusher Blackwell and The Fortunate Ones w/Greg Gagne vs. Carl Kellerman, Vic Dutro and Willie Lopez 

Stubbs and Young execute a double suplex on Lopez as Blackwell follows with a big splash for the easy win. 

 

Nelson: Well, it looks like we've got the whole Gagne Gang with us. Oh, wait a minute, thanks to Billy Jack Strong, I guess there's one person missing. 

Gagne: Oh, that's cute Nelson, real cute. Mike George deserved better but don't think for a minute I'm going to forget about you Billy Jerk. Gagne's Gang has some serious muscle coming and you all will be sorry. Now, in a couple weeks, Crusher Blackwell is going to get the golden ticket to WrestleRock, because he's going to steamroll everybody in the Memorial Day Tournament. I can only hope he gets to mow over that moron El Canek during the tournament. Next up, my Fortunate Ones. These two were the survivors in the elimination match at Champagne Slam. So, I have to ask, why are the Guerreros wrestling for the world tag titles at Title Night? Shouldn't it be the Fortunate Ones? 

 

AWA C.O.O Gerry Morrow walks out with Brenda Britton. Britton snatches the mic from Nelson. 

Britton: You know the drill Larry, get lost. Hi everybody! Ok Gerry, talk to them. 

Morrow: AHHHHH thank you Brenda. I for one am looking forward to Title Night in Alaska. De AWA is venturing out and I'm loving every minute. After all, it is my vision. Greg Gagne, I have heard you loud and clear and you bring up a valid point. I'll tell you what, after de Title Night, I will guarantee your Fortunate Ones a world tag team title shot. Fair Enough? 

Morrow extends his hand. 

Gagne: As always Mr. Morrow

Gagne shakes his hand. Gagne's Gang walks away with smiles. 

Britton: Gerry, you are the man. Until next time toooodles. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

AWA Mid-American Champ Larry Zbyszko vs. Neil Jordan 

Larry hits the swinging neckbreaker for the win. 

 

Nelson: Larry Zbyszko, at Title Night, it's you and Austin Idol for the Mid- American title.

Larry: Is it really? Wow, thanks for clearing that up for me Nelson, you're so informative. Geez, I can't believe we have the same first name. Can you please change yours? Anyways, I've already taken this title from Idol. Our rematch at Title Night is just a formality. I'm walking out with this title and that's that.

 

Commercial Break 

 

Nelson: Coming out now are the AWA World Tag Team Champs. DJ Peterson and Kevin Kelly along with the Vin Man. 

Vin Man comes out, but the champs are nowhere in sight. 

Nelson: What's going on here? Where are the champs? 

Vin: Hold on a sec Larbo. I'm out here to assure you and everybody else that there is absolutely no problems or issues whatsoever between the champs. They are in sync more than ever and they're going to prove that to those chump Guerrero brothers at Title Night. Oh Larbo, before I forget, do me a favor, when you announce the champs, announce Kevin Kelly's name first. It's ok, DJ's cool with it. Thanks Larbo! 

Nelson: (rolls his eyes) Yea, no issues at all. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Winner gets an AWA TV Title shot at Title Night 

Scott 'Powerhouse' Putski vs. Cannonball Griz w/Norvell Austin 

The bell rings and these guys go toe to toe, exchanging hard punches. Griz rakes Putski's eyes and scoop slams him down. Griz swings off the ropes and goes for an elbow drop but Putski moves. Putski gets up. Griz staggers up as Putski swings off the ropes and clotheslines Griz down. Norvell hops on the apron but jumps down when Putski charges towards him. Putski hops on the middle ropes. Griz staggers up as Putski nails him with a diving forearm blast 1..2..Kick Out. Putski swings Griz into the corner and charges in, but Griz moves as Putski crashes into the turnbuckles. 

Griz regroups, pulls Putski out, lifts him up and throat drops him on the top rope. Griz picks up Putski and chokes him on the top rope, then rakes his head across the top rope. Griz picks up Putski and delivers a shoulder breaker 1..2..Kick Out. Griz picks up Putski and hits a backbreaker 1..2..Kick Out. Norvell yells at the Ref. Griz swings Putski to the ropes and goes for a back drop but Putski kicks him. 

Putski hammers away on Griz, swings him to the ropes and puts him down with a flying back elbow smash. Putski swings off the ropes and hits a jumping knee drop 1..Putski sees Norvell on the apron and runs over. Putski grabs Norvell by his shirt, winds up and punches Norvell. Norvell goes flying off the apron as the fans go wild. Griz pulls a foreign object from his tights and puts it in his elbow pad, then sneaks up from behind and forearm blasts Putski through the ropes. Griz stands back and counts along with the Ref until he hits 10. BOOOOOOO! 

Cannonball Griz gets a TV title shot at Title Night. 

 

Commercial Break 

 

Nelson: What a show this has been. Next week you're going to see Carlos Colon go one on one with a returning Buzz Sawyer. Johnny Rich takes on Dream Machine. The Gunslingers have signed to face a debuting mystery team. More announcements regarding the Memorial Day Tournament. Should be an exciting show. Ok, joining me now is the AWA World Champion Bad News Brown. 

Brown looks rested as he walks out in his buttoned down suit, gold chains showing and the title on his shoulder. 

Nelson: Next week in Alaska, you will be defending that world title against Rip Oliver. Your thoughts?

Brown: My thoughts? Let me give you some names. Ricky Steamboat, Jerry Lawler, Al Perez, Carlos Colon. What do they have in common? They all went down to Bad News Brown. What makes Rip Oliver any different? He's got some fight, that's for sure and I like that, but he's not a serious threat. He's not a serious challenger. He's going down and he's falling hard and that's bad news for the so called Crippler! 

The show ends with Bad News Brown holding up the title with his other fist held high. 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

I like the bookend with the challenger and champion for the world title match at Title Night.

Venomous is ready to inject the OG Midnights with a lethal dose.

Baby Doll is looking for a tag team. Maybe Badd Company? They kinda need the help.

Dream Machine doing what he does best, running his mouth.

Nelson's little dig at Gagne must've felt good. But Gerry gives Greg something to be happy about by promising the Fortunate Ones a tag title shot.

Larry Z is such a dick. I hope Idol knock his head off.

Vin Man sets the record straight, there is absolutely no dissection in the tag champs and he definitely isn't playing favorites.

Norvell helps his man Grizzly land a TV title match.

[LastStopTour]

Here's a vote for Rip Oliver to walk out of his match with Bad News Brown as the champion. He walks it, he talks it and can carry himself well on the the mic and in the ring.

Baby Doll is looking to take a tag team all the way. Simpson and Doll with Texas roots could probably benefit from her tutelage. Can she take them to the titles? That remains to be seen.

Griz gets the TV Title shot off of a countout? BOOOOOO!

Larry Z tells it like it is and didn't have to call anyone a Spudhead.

[spaldoni]

AWA @ The All Seasons Arena, Minot, North Dakota 5-7-88

 

'Luscious' Lanny Poffo defeated Salvatore Bellomo with a moonsault. Poffo got some good heat with his antics. 

 

AWA TV Champ Brian Adias defeated Gene Ligon with a cradle suplex 

 

Chicky Starr defeated 'The Wild One' Johnny Rich- During a Ref bump, Dream Machine ran out and headbutted Rich with his loaded mask. Chicky waited for the Ref to gain his senses, then dropped his corkscrew elbow for the tainted win. 

 

Synergy (Scott Armstrong and Ricky Rice) and Scott 'Powerhouse' Putski battled The Original Midnight Express and Cannonball Griz w/Norvell Austin to a 20 minute draw- Thrilling seesaw battle that kept the fans on the edge of their seats.  

 

El Canek defeated Crusher Blackwell w/Greg Gagne by DQ, when of course Greg Gagne interfered. Canek was able to hurl Blackwell out of the ring, then pleased the fans when he military pressed Gagne and threw him out onto Blackwell. 

 

Nick Busick and Billy Jack Strong defeated Kokina and Abbuda Iaukea- Hard hitting and heat filled match as these 4 men pounded and tore into each other. At the 15 minute mark a pier six brawl broke out. During the melee, Busick put Iaukea down with the Spinebuster Slam for the win. Kokina wanted to keep the fight going but thought better when Busick and Strong were ready to oblige. 

 

Nikita Koloff defeated Dream Machine- During the match, Johnny Rich came to ringside but Security stopped him. Dream was yelling down and pointing at Rich when Nikita grabbed Dream and hit an overhead German Suplex. Nikita backed up and waited. Dream staggered up as Nikita put him down with the Russian Sickle to send the fans home very happy. 

[LastStopTour]

Impressive display by El Canek to first throw Crusher Blackwell to the outside but to also military press Greg Gagne and throw him onto Blackwell. That is a feat of strength.

[Autistic Dragon]

Poffo & Adidas get solid showcases.

A classic angle as Rich & Dream Machine take turns screwing each other out of wins.

A thrilling six man tag is always a welcome sight.

Canek showing off his power.

Busick & Strong come together to fend off Iaukea & Kokina.

[Wahoos Leg]

Spladoni and I go way back in this game and I always enjoyed his stuff quite a bit. This AWA roster is a mixture of grizzled vets and young rising talent, reminding me of the true AWA during the same period. Stay away from any breakfast cereal gimmick-related matches, and things here should remain on point!

[Jimmy Jack Punk]

You have some very inventive tag teams here in the AWA, it's fun to see things that didn't happen in the real world and combinations like Rice and Armstrong that would have been a big hit. Bad News as World Champion makes me happy! I would love to see him eventually make a trip "home" to Stampede to defend the title sometime.