Dirt Sheets

[LastStopTour]

Winnipeg Success
- With WPW's early success, management has seen to it to add to the roster on both the tag team front and the women. The additions of Desiree Peterson and Luna Vachon coming to Winnipeg add to the women's division, making the Canadian territory the most active when it comes to ladies' wrestling.

 

[ErictheDragon]

Wrestling Observer Newsletter – News and Rumors

The episodes from the UWF's second taping are airing as of this writing and there are a couple of interesting developments worth noting.

First is the appearance of Charles Wright, who had recently been competing on WCW television as Kama. We can confirm that Mr Wright is still under WCW contract but has been sent down to Florida as part of an agreement reached with UWF officials. The main reason for this excursion seems to be that WCW's booker had determined that the Kama character had taken too many high profile loses and needed time away. While we've yet to determine exactly how long Mr Wright will be in Florida, reports are suggesting he could remain in the newly launched promotion into next year.

Secondly, it appears there has been a mix up in production with the video that promoted Troy "Dream Machine" Graham's arrival that aired last week was in fact supposed to air on this week's episode with Graham making his on-air debut on next week's episode. While such mistakes can be forgiven given how young this iteration of the UWF is, we'll be looking to see how Mr Abrams and company address it and how they'll improve going forward.

[LastStopTour]

Tod Gordon throws his hat back into the squared circle once again as he resurrects Eastern Championship Wrestling one more time following an unsuccessful start back in January of this year. Gordon explained his failure on plans that were too grandiose for a beginner, promising to "do things right" this time around.

Reports of the Tag Team Champions, the Batten Twins returning are mixed as they currently wrestle in the Smoky Mountain territory and have no intentions of returning eastward to Philadelphia to defend the belts or work for Tod Gordon ever again.

Rumors of the Original Sheik coming to Philadelphia persist but in what capacity is unknown.

[LowBlowPodcast]

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER

October 21, 1991

WCW NEWS & NOTES

Halloween Havoc preparations, a major Japanese departure, questions surrounding Rick Steiner, and two significant names rumored for 1992.

World Championship Wrestling is entering what could be one of the most important periods in the company's recent history. With Halloween Havoc scheduled for October 31, WCW management is attempting to establish a much stronger identity built around its championship programs, an increasingly competitive tag team division, and international talent exchanges.

There is also considerable discussion behind the scenes concerning the direction of the promotion in 1992, with two major names reportedly being pursued once their existing contractual obligations have been fulfilled.

WCW BUILDING WHAT COULD BE THE STRONGEST TAG TEAM DIVISION IN WRESTLING

One of the more interesting developments in WCW has been the increased emphasis on tag team wrestling. While the WWF continues to concentrate heavily on individual personalities, WCW appears determined to establish tag team wrestling as a legitimate main-event attraction rather than simply a supporting part of its television programming.

The recent championship victory by Arn Anderson and Larry Zbyszko over the Steiner Brothers was a significant development. The Enforcers, managed by Paul E. Dangerously, have become an important part of the Dangerous Alliance, which is increasingly being positioned as the dominant heel organization in the company.

The Steiner Brothers remain one of the strongest attractions in the division, although Rick Steiner's injury has complicated matters considerably. The Nasty Boys, now accompanied by Missy Hyatt, have emerged as major contenders, while the Patriot and Marcus Bagwell are being given a substantial opportunity against the Enforcers at Halloween Havoc.

The promotion also has the Road Warriors, Davey Boy Smith and William Regal, and several international combinations capable of working significant matches. With Steve Williams and Terry Gordy expected to figure into the company's longer-term plans, the depth of the division could improve even further.

There is considerable speculation that WCW intends to introduce additional combinations of established singles stars during 1992. One source described the philosophy as an attempt to create a division where a tag team championship match could headline a major show without requiring a World Heavyweight Championship defense.

If the company follows through, WCW could have one of the deepest tag team rosters assembled by an American promotion in several years.

RICK STEINER INJURY MORE SERIOUS THAN ORIGINALLY BELIEVED

There is legitimate concern over Rick Steiner's availability for Halloween Havoc following the elbow injury suffered during the October 10 World Tag Team Championship match against Arn Anderson and Larry Zbyszko.

Steiner reportedly suffered a dislocated elbow, and there are questions about whether he will receive medical clearance in time for the scheduled match against the Nasty Boys.

The injury was a major factor in the decision to move the World Tag Team Championships to the Enforcers. WCW had originally intended to continue featuring the Steiners prominently in the championship picture, but the uncertainty surrounding Rick's condition forced management to reconsider the immediate direction of the division.

The television storyline has suggested that the Nasty Boys were involved in weakening the Steiners before the championship match, with Paul E. Dangerously appearing to have benefited considerably from the situation.

Scott Steiner has continued wrestling and is being given an opportunity to establish himself as a singles performer while his brother recovers. His recent confrontation with Brian Knobbs was designed to maintain interest in the program without requiring Rick to appear.

As of this writing, the Halloween Havoc match remains advertised, although there is no guarantee Rick will be cleared. There has been discussion of altering the match or delaying the Steiners' revenge until later in the year.

The company would prefer to have both Steiners available, particularly given how important they are expected to be to the tag team division moving forward.

TENRYU DEPARTURE FOLLOWS DISAGREEMENT OVER INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Genichiro Tenryu is no longer with WCW following a disagreement concerning the direction of the International Championship.

According to sources familiar with the situation, the original plan called for Tenryu to defend the championship against the Great Muta at Halloween Havoc, with Muta scheduled to win the title.

Tenryu reportedly refused to agree to the proposed finish, leading to a breakdown in discussions and his departure from the promotion.

WCW subsequently announced that Tenryu was no longer with the company and declared the International Championship vacant. The Great Muta defeated Masa Saito at a house show to capture the championship, with footage of the title change airing on World Championship Wrestling.

Muta is now scheduled to defend against Masa Chono at Halloween Havoc.

The situation illustrates some of the difficulties WCW faces in coordinating its international talent arrangements. Japanese wrestlers frequently have commitments and booking considerations involving their home promotions, and disagreements over finishes can become particularly complicated when championships are involved.

Tenryu's departure is a loss, as he had provided the International Championship with considerable credibility. However, WCW appears to have moved quickly to establish Muta as the centerpiece of the division.

There are indications that the company views Muta as a potential major attraction beyond the international program, and his championship reign could become increasingly important heading into 1992.

VADER EXPECTED TO RETURN TO JAPAN

Big Van Vader is reportedly scheduled to return to Japan following his current WCW commitments.

Vader has been presented as one of the most physically imposing wrestlers in the promotion, and his television appearances have consisted largely of dominant victories over preliminary opposition.

He is scheduled to face Masa Saito during the Halloween Havoc television special, which should provide a much more competitive match than most of his recent appearances.

The expectation is that Vader will continue working in Japan, although WCW officials remain interested in bringing him back for additional dates. His size, athleticism, and reputation overseas make him a valuable attraction, particularly as the promotion continues to expand its international relationships.

There is no indication that WCW intends to abandon its plans for Vader. The question is whether the company can secure sufficient dates to make him a regular part of its major storylines.

HALLOWEEN HAVOC TO FEATURE FOUR AND A HALF HOURS OF WRESTLING

WCW is taking an unusually ambitious approach to Halloween Havoc, which takes place October 31.

The company will present a 90-minute live television special immediately preceding the three-hour pay-per-view, creating a combined four-and-a-half-hour wrestling event.

The television portion is designed to provide additional exposure for the company's roster while encouraging viewers to purchase the pay-per-view. Six matches are planned for the free broadcast, followed by nine matches on the pay-per-view itself.

The main pay-per-view attraction is Sting defending the WCW World Heavyweight Championship against the Undertaker. The promotion has taken an unusual approach to the build, keeping the two wrestlers physically separated while presenting a series of ominous vignettes featuring the Undertaker constructing an unidentified wooden object.

The other major attraction is the Chamber of Horrors, an eight-man cage match featuring Lex Luger, the Road Warriors and El Gigante against Sid Vicious, Meng, Abdullah the Butcher and Cactus Jack. The match will reportedly involve coffins and weapons, with the only way to win being by submission.

Other featured matches include Ricky Steamboat defending the United States Championship against Rick Rude, the Great Muta defending the International Championship against Masa Chono, and the Enforcers defending the World Tag Team Championship against the Patriot and Marcus Bagwell.

The decision to run fifteen matches across the two broadcasts represents a considerable logistical challenge. WCW will need to manage match lengths, entrances, interviews, and production transitions carefully to avoid rushing the later portions of the show.

The biggest question is whether the free television special will generate enough interest to increase pay-per-view purchases. If successful, the format could become an important part of WCW's strategy for future major events.

The promotion is clearly attempting to make Halloween Havoc feel like more than an ordinary pay-per-view. It is being positioned as an all-night wrestling event.

TWO MAJOR INTERNATIONAL STARS RUMORED FOR WCW IN 1992

Perhaps the most intriguing story circulating within the industry concerns two major wrestlers who could be headed to World Championship Wrestling in 1992.

Multiple sources have indicated that WCW has been involved in discussions concerning two established international stars whose current contractual obligations prevent them from appearing immediately.

Both men are considered major names with recognition extending well beyond the United States. They have worked at the highest levels of the industry, and either would be a significant acquisition for WCW.

The identities have not been officially confirmed, and those familiar with the discussions have been reluctant to provide names. However, there is a belief that the two could become central figures in the company's plans for next year.

Interestingly, the speculation comes at a time when WCW is placing considerable emphasis on strengthening its tag team division.

Whether the two would be used as singles attractions, a tag team, or in some combination of both remains unknown.

One source suggested that the company is interested in acquiring established stars who can immediately compete at the top of the card rather than wrestlers requiring months of television development.

Any announcement would likely have to wait until their existing commitments have been satisfied.

For now, WCW officials are keeping quiet, but there is a growing sense that the promotion is preparing for a substantial roster shakeup in 1992.

 

SCOTT STEINER BEING CONSIDERED FOR SINGLES PUSH

There has reportedly been discussion about giving Scott Steiner a more substantial singles role, particularly if Rick Steiner's elbow injury keeps him out of action longer than anticipated. Scott is considered one of the most impressive athletes in the promotion, and there are those within WCW who believe he could eventually become a major singles star. One suggestion being discussed would involve Scott challenging Rick Rude for the United States Championship, assuming Rude wins the title later this year. There is no indication that WCW intends to split the Steiner Brothers permanently.

 

LEX LUGER POSSIBLY HEADED FOR A CHANGE IN DIRECTION

Despite his ongoing feud with Sid Vicious, there has been talk that Lex Luger could be moved away from the World Heavyweight Championship picture for an extended period. Management reportedly sees value in keeping Luger involved in major personal rivalries rather than immediately returning him to title contention. There have also been discussions about pairing Luger with Sting more frequently, particularly if the company begins emphasizing tag team wrestling in 1992.

WCW UNHAPPY WITH THE NASTY BOYS' BACKSTAGE REPUTATION

There are rumors that Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags have generated some heat backstage due to their increasingly physical style. The recent Steiner Brothers situation has reportedly led to complaints from several wrestlers who believe the Nasties are taking unnecessary liberties. Others argue that the team's reputation is precisely what makes them valuable. Missy Hyatt's involvement has apparently helped elevate their standing with management, and there is no indication that their push is in jeopardy.

VAN HAMMER'S PUSH MAY BE LOSING MOMENTUM

Van Hammer continues to receive television exposure, but there are questions about whether management is satisfied with his progress. Hammer has the size and appearance WCW traditionally favors, although his in-ring development has reportedly been slower than expected. Some within the company believe he would benefit from a lengthy program with a more experienced opponent rather than continuing to work short television matches. A possible feud with Diamond Dallas Page has been mentioned.

RICKY STEAMBOAT'S FUTURE REMAINS UNCERTAIN

There is speculation that Ricky Steamboat may not remain with WCW beyond the end of the year. Steamboat has been one of the company's most reliable performers and is currently involved in a major United States Championship program with Rick Rude. However, there have been questions concerning his schedule and future commitments. If Steamboat does depart, WCW would lose one of its strongest in-ring performers at a time when the promotion is emphasizing wrestling quality.

ROAD WARRIORS NOT EXPECTED TO REMAIN IN WCW INDEFINITELY

Although the Road Warriors remain a major attraction, there are questions about how long the team will continue working its current schedule. Hawk and Animal have significant name recognition internationally, and there are reportedly opportunities available outside WCW. Management is said to be interested in making the most of their remaining appearances, particularly in the Chamber of Horrors program. Their departure would create an opening for another major powerhouse team.

JUSHIN THUNDER LIGER IMPRESSING WCW OFFICIALS

Jushin Thunder Liger has reportedly received strong reviews from WCW management, with several wrestlers praising his ability to produce exciting matches against a wide range of opponents. There has been discussion about establishing a more permanent junior heavyweight championship structure, although no decision has been made. One possibility would involve using Liger as the centerpiece of a division featuring a rotating group of Japanese and American wrestlers.

DUSTIN RHODES AND SCOTT HALL PROGRAM COULD CONTINUE INTO 1992

The ongoing rivalry between Dustin Rhodes and Scott Hall has reportedly received positive reviews from WCW officials. Dustin is viewed as one of the company's most promising young babyfaces, while Hall has benefited from his association with Paul E. Dangerously. There is speculation that the feud could eventually involve a specialty match, with a Texas Bullrope Match being one possibility given the Rhodes family's history. Management is reportedly pleased with Dustin's development.

TEDDY LONG REPORTEDLY LOBBYING FOR A BIGGER ROLE

Teddy Long has reportedly been pushing for Johnny B. Badd to receive a more substantial championship opportunity. Badd's recent television performances have impressed some within the company, although there are still questions about whether he is ready for a sustained championship run. Long is said to believe that Badd's personality could make him a strong television attraction, particularly if WCW gives him more interview time.

SID VICIOUS MAY TAKE TIME OFF FOLLOWING STARRCADE

There is speculation that Sid Vicious could be given a short break following the conclusion of his program with Lex Luger. Sid has been featured prominently throughout 1991, and management reportedly believes a temporary absence could help preserve his attraction value. There has also been discussion about eventually matching Sid against Vader, although the scheduling complications involving Vader's Japanese commitments would make such a program difficult to arrange.

UNDERTAKER'S PRESENTATION REPORTEDLY DIVIDING OPINION BACKSTAGE

The Undertaker's unusual television vignettes have reportedly generated considerable discussion within WCW. Some within management believe the character's supernatural presentation is too far removed from the company's traditional wrestling identity. Others argue that the restraint shown in the current Sting program has made the Undertaker one of the promotion's most compelling attractions. The upcoming World Championship match at Halloween Havoc is viewed internally as a major test of the character's drawing power.

WCW LOOKING AT ADDITIONAL JAPANESE TALENT FOR 1992

WCW is reportedly interested in expanding its relationships with Japanese promotions, particularly as several current talent arrangements are expected to change at the beginning of next year. There has been speculation about bringing in younger Japanese wrestlers for short tours rather than committing to long-term contracts. Management reportedly believes that a rotating international roster could help distinguish WCW from the WWF while giving established American stars a wider variety of opponents.

POSSIBLE RETURN OF A FAMILIAR TAG TEAM

There is talk that WCW has contacted representatives of a former championship-caliber tag team about appearing in early 1992. The identities have not been confirmed, although sources indicate that the promotion is particularly interested in established teams with recognizable gimmicks and national television exposure. The discussions are said to be preliminary, but they fit with the company's apparent intention to make tag team wrestling a major selling point next year.

RON SIMMONS REPORTEDLY RECEIVING STRONG BACKSTAGE SUPPORT

Ron Simmons has quietly become one of the more highly regarded performers in WCW. Management is reportedly pleased with his physical presence, improvement in the ring, and ability to connect with audiences. There have been suggestions that Simmons could receive a major singles championship opportunity in 1992, although there is disagreement about how quickly he should be elevated. A sustained program against one of the company's established heels is considered likely.

CACTUS JACK'S STYLE RAISING CONCERNS

Cactus Jack continues to impress audiences with his willingness to take punishment, but there are reportedly concerns about the long-term sustainability of his wrestling style. His participation in the Chamber of Horrors has raised additional questions, particularly given the number of dangerous objects expected to be involved. WCW officials are said to recognize his value as an unusual attraction, although there is some concern that his matches are becoming increasingly difficult to control.

FINAL NOTES

WCW's immediate priority remains Halloween Havoc, where the company is attempting to capitalize on several months of increasingly interconnected storylines. The Dangerous Alliance has become a major force, the International Championship has undergone an unexpected change, and the World Championship program between Sting and Undertaker has been handled with considerably more restraint than is typical for American wrestling television.

The larger story, however, may be what happens after Halloween Havoc.

Between the developing tag team division, the company's international relationships, and the possibility of two major acquisitions, WCW appears to be positioning itself for an aggressive 1992.

Whether the company can turn that ambition into consistent business success remains to be seen.

But there is little question that the promotion is making moves.