Welcome back to indulging Synn, friends and foes. This week was the first bit of action that we've had in quite some time as the XHW gears up to get on with life after Superbrawl II, and it started off with a bang this Wednesday.
On Warzone, it was the night that Claire Logan took over, filling in for her sister Lucy as she has yet to be tracked down after Superbrawl II. It was a busy night, with three matches from the X-Core division in total, not to mention what happened to start the show...
Starting off the night was brand new Undisputed Champion, Jay Adams, and the rest of the Dogtown Raiders, Draven Torette and Jay's cousin, Frankie Adams. I got to welcome the faction personally, and it was quite an interesting encounter as we heard the announcement of the "Draven Torette Tribute Tournament," or the "DTTT" for short, where the entire X-Core division will take part in a battle for the last-man-standing position opposite of Torette at Barely Legal with the belt on the line. I also got a couple announcements out of the champ himself as Jay threw out a challenge to the returning Jakk Levy for next Warzone, as well as taking it upon himself to start the "Jay Adams Invitational," a tournament for 15 wrestlers hand-picked by Adams to determine the new #1 contender for the Undisputed Championship. The first invite? Conveniently, it was Torette himself. And to top it all off, we saw Frankie leave the Raiders to go chase the Tornado Tag Team Championships with her recently returned brother, Koby, adhering to her promise to leave the women's division should she fail in her third attempt at winning that division's championship.
Believe it or not, we did actually have matches this week, and it started off with Daman Arress and Johnny Sniper, both men looking to prove their mettle within the division. It looked like all Sniper early, but after stating earlier in the night that he was going to "take matters into [his] own hands," Scott Walker attacked Sniper, causing a DQ victory in Johnny's favor. Daman couldn't have been too happy about that either... More on this later.
The women's division is also looking for a new number one contender for Cordelia Murphy's title, and Grace Rourke made it known that she's got some unfinished business with the belt, gaining a victory over Casey Blue with a textbook GVR. Casey looked like she might have had a bit of ring rust in this one...
For those who have been living under a rock, Awesome Kong turned out to be the "It" that Margaret-Anne york was referring to leading up to Superbrawl II. This week, she made quite the statement in returning the TNA Knockout Championship to the federation, stating once again that she has her sights set on the X-Core gold.
Perhaps the earlier interfering took something out of Scott Walker, but he looked a little under-prepared for his match later in the night against Jimm Red. The NextGen star took it to Walker, eventually earning the victory, and causing Walker to look even more on edge after it was all said and done.
Immediately following the match, Red's faction friend, Johnny Diamond, decided to come out and let the world know that he wants another shot at the Undisputed Championship! Well, maybe he'll get invited to the Jay Adams Invitational, but somehow I doubt it. One man who does seem eager to give Diamond a chance is Anarchy star, Diego Cortez. The Spaniard called Diamond out after he put the Japanese Seaman out with an injury at Superbrawl II, and especially after hearing many of the veterans backstage telling Diamond he should start again from square one if he really wants to earn some respect. It took a little coaxing, but Diamond finally agreed to face Cortez on the next Anarchy. I'll be looking forward to this one without a doubt...
Could the new contender for the Undisputed Women's Championship be a rookie? It's beginning to look more and more like Talia Arroyo is unstoppable, as she made an example of Casey Dodge this week, getting the victory over the XHW veteran and Razor Stiletto leader. She's still undefeated, as far as I can remember... Speaking of the Women's belt, Cordelia Murphy came out just after the match to issue an open challenge to whoever wants to face her next week. If her opponent should win, they would earn a shot at the title.
In the match of the night, J.T. Cash took on the young up-and-comer, Aston Michaels. It was a great match throughout, only to be marred at the end by, guess who: Scott Walker. Apparently out there to deliver a message to Cash, Walker inadvertently clocked Michaels in the jaw, making it just a bit easier for Cash to pick up the win, moving him a little higher to that coveted number one spot in the X-Core division. Of course, all that hard work may be for naught should he not advance in the DTTT next week!
Not only did I get the chance to kick off Warzone this week with the Raiders, I was asked by Giovanni Valentino, the sole survivor of Superbrawl II's main event, to do a brief interview with him. Of course, I should have known that it was going to be mostly self-promotion and self-glorification, but it seemed like almost a waste of time as all Gio wanted to do was talk about Eddie Rourke's fashion sense. For those of us who read between the lines, however, could Gio be gearing up for a run at the Universal Champion? It's possible...
Speaking of Rourke, he was pitted in the main event against an up-and-coming contender in his own right, Joe Riggs. Still wanting to prove himself as a singles competitor as well as part of the most dominant team many of us have ever seen, Riggs put on quite an effort, but it fell just short in this non-title affair as Rourke got the pin with the Cutt Off.
Just as the show was about to come to a close, we were treating to a little contract signing event. Acting Warzone GM, Claire Logan, came out with a contract for Alex Homme, no doubt with devious intentions on her mind. However, a little quick thinking and sneakiness helped Homme to sign the contract before any shenanigans could take place, and he is officially back on the XHW roster. Welcome... Homme? Sorry... I can't help myself sometimes.
With Warzone wrapped up, let's get to the always juicy backstage news...
There are still stories trickling in from Superbrawl II. One such story is that of the confrontation between newcomer Jezter and Tiger Komaru of the DragonGate. The two not only had it out at the big show, but recently had to be separated by security after Jezter provoked Tiger and the disciples. This one is far from over... Another SB2 late-developing story is the interaction between Sara Foxx and Reinhardt, both of whom had big nights on that weekend, and got together to celebrate.
In a more upbeat story, it looks like the relationship between Reno Drake and academy student Jada continues to blossom. Check out this video of them keeping it light with a little friendly wager on hoops. In other relationship news, it looks like Morgan Garcia and Frankie Adams are still getting along just fine...
It doesn't look like sIMON will be getting into Project 242 any time soon. He and North Starr may share a manager, but they were both a little upset about having the share the ring on this week's Anarchy.
Let the rumors officially end: Roxas Knoxx and Maverick Harley have gone and sucked face on camera. They were seen getting together after Knoxx's brutal match against BlkOut at Xtreme All Access. Speaking of Harley, after being spurned by Asylum, he may have found that "you watch my back" partner in Koby Adams. They seem to have come to some sort of agreement, at least. Koby also had a long conversation with Cordelia Murphy... mostly about her crush on Harley.
The rest of us may not know who "Gentlemen" James Coburn is, but Ben Hampton certainly seems to. James showed up at Hampton's office recently to have a little chat and re-introduce himself. Coburn was also spotted giving advice to Jada down at the Academy as well as congratulating Giovanni Valentino on surviving the SB2 main event carnage.
After losing for the second time to Mr. Jingles, and after his personal friend, the Japanese Seaman, was injured at Superbrawl II, Diego Cortez was understandably in a down mood. After a conversation with Turbine, however, both men seem to have lightened their spirits.
Could Doc Hammer be the man to face Draven Torette? Not unless he drops that Anarchy Championship he earned at XAA and ponies up the cash to enter the X-Core division. However, he did approach Draven recently to discuss the topic.
An interesting face was spotted backstage talking to FiXX recently: Aaron Kay. The two talked about their children mostly, but it didn't end well. Kay also caught up with Cordelia Murphy, discussing plans and bail, and Dakota Burrows, a tense meeting to say the least. Last but not least, he tracked down the mother of his child, Riley DeSantos, and it was a little... odd.
J.T. Cash also ran into DeSantos, and their meeting was a little more flirtatious than anything else. Cash had a discussion with BlkOut too about keeping their respective factions separate from each other. In fact, all of Project 242 had a meeting to discuss their future plans.
Is Johnny Diamond going to get that coveted third shot at the Undisputed Championship? Not if Claire Logan can help it. She and Diamond had a confrontation backstage where she adamantly denied the former #1 contender's claims as she asserted her newfound power. There was also a mysterious note posted on XHW.com about the Universal Championship that many thought was Logan's handiwork, but she has denied it was her.
With all of that out of the way, here's the card for this week's Saturday Night Anarchy:
- The first four matches all feature debuts as Seraphim and Ironclad face off in the first XHW bout for both men, DDT gets his start against newcomer Joseph Woods, Jezter gets his second match against, believe it or not, the first match for the Arnold Classic, and wrestling veteran Taz gets his XHW opener against the always up-and-down Cleavan Audrey, "The Chance."
- In a very interesting tag team match-up, everyone's favorite dysfunctional couple, North Starr and sIMON, will be taking on the fire and water team of Wesley Burns and Shark Boy.
- The other tag team match will feature the brother-sister team of Koby and Frankie Adams against the brother-brother team of Doug and Danny Bean, the Sheglins.
- In the first defense of the newly minted Anarchy Championship, Doc Hammer will try to fend off Asylum, who's coming off a heart-wrenching first few months in the XHW.
- Anarchy's other belt, the Bronx Championship, will have a new number one contender named as Dirk Diver and Reno Drake square off for the right to face Mr. Jingles for the title. You can only imagine the fury that will be the Silent Assassin in this one...
- We're still not sure whether or not he'll be medically cleared, but Maverick Harley is still scheduled to take on BlkOut in a "Falls Count Anywhere" match in Anarchy's main event. Lots of animosity here...
That's in for this installment, friends. Come back next time, and as always, thanks for indulging me!
Friday, April 25, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Another Star?
Hey folks. Just figured I'd pop in real quick and fill you in on a conversation I had with Doug Bean, of all people, just after posting this past edition of "Indulging Synn." Anyway, here's what happened...
Doug Bean walks over to Xavier Synn and, more importantly, the noticeboard.
Doug Bean: Excuse me, squire. I have a VERY important notice to pin up.
Xavier takes a step back, holding out his arm to allow the Bean Brother by, alliteration aside, of course.
Xavier Synn
By all means, Doug. Anything interesting?
He feels like he has to ask. Truth be told, he's downright curious... Doug Bean holds his head up high, almost pompous, and turns it slightly towards Xavier Synn.
Doug Bean: Let me flip the script for a second. Let me ask YOU a question.
Doug clears his throat as he prepares to get serious.
Doug Bean: Are you clear on the card for next weeks 'Saturday Night Anarchy'?
Xavier shrugs, tilting his head.
Xavier Synn
I've glanced over it... is there something in particular that you're getting at?
Doug expresses fake shock.
Doug Bean: ....you've 'glanced' over it. Well, i'll have you know that The Arnold Classic is involved in his debut match! You should be excited! I know I am! What a seriously tasty prospect he is!
Doug smirks thinking that he's avoided Xavier's original enquiry. Xavier cocks an eyebrow.
Xavier Synn
The Arnold Classic? Seriously? It's about time that he's signed for match, in my opinion. The man's done little more than dance around the arenas across the country and get led out by security. But hey, your friends with the Arnold... he got anything special planned for his debut?
He's genuinely interested, as he can't quite visualize the Arnold Classic actually competing in a match. Doug Bean looks somewhat pleased.
Doug Bean: The Classic likes to dance I suppose. Just like we do. It doesnt always have to be serious! You can have abit of hoistly action in the backstage area! Look, he's just gonna go out and wrestle I suppose! The Arnold Classic? Did you see that guy take out the security the other week!? That was, until they outnumbered him.
Doug then looks unhappy for a split second. Then he looks at the paper instantly bringing a smile to his face. He waves it in front of Xavier. Xavier holds up his hands, fending off the Doug Bean.
Xavier Synn
OK, OK... what's on the note?
He straightens out his shirt as he takes a step back, a little frazzled by the man's actions... Doug stops and nods his head.
Doug Bean: I cant believe it! I'm so happy that he's seen sense! Just, well, look...............
Doug Bean takes a drawing pin from out of his pocket and pins the note on the wall.
(It's a note announcing the arrival of "King CHAVO" to the XHW)
Xavier Synn
You've got to be kidding... "King" Chavo? Is this serious?
He looks over at Doug, who's still grinning rather proudly at his handiwork. Doug Bean looks at Xavier Synn with a grin on his face!
Doug Bean: I'm Doug Bean. I ONLY do serious! Besides, I thought you'd be pleased! What a great SCOOP for you, no!?
Xavier shrugs as he strokes his chin, looking at the note.
Xavier Synn
I mean, it's a decent signing. We get a handful of big name, established superstars every year, and I guess this is no different... But wait, what do you have to do with this?
He turns to Doug, a confused look on his face. Doug puts his hands upon his hips.
Doug Bean: King CHAVO is a friend of ours. You could say that we're like family! We go way back to our days in an old company. He helped train us! We battled side by side. Sadly the company went bankrupt and we wents our seperate ways. He joined WCW and we toured the country. But now.........
Doug raises his eyebrows. Suggesting the fact that King CHAVO is officially signed. Xavier leans back against the wall.
Xavier Synn
So are we looking at a new member to the Sheglins family? You've already got you and your brother, Dr. James... excuse me, DR. JAMES ANDREWS, and the Arnold Classic...
Doug looks disgusted.
Doug Bean: Woah, woah, woah! Hang on there. The Sheglins family? KING CHAVO!? No, no, no. We have too much respect for that. We couldnt allow royalty to become a part of our family. We are not worthy of King CHAVO's greatness! Tell me, have you ever met royalty, Synn?
Doug tilts his head. Xavier shrugs.
Xavier Synn
I guess that depends on your definition of "royalty," Mr. Bean...
He inwardly laughs.
Xavier Synn
But we've seen you and Chavo together quite often outside of your competing here. Why not welcome him in?
Doug shakes his head.
Doug Bean: King CHAVO someone that we respect and look up to. We simply are not worthy his greatness. He will serve and protect under his almighty ruling. All of us. What is ours is his. What he chooses to give us, we will gladly accept.
Xavier raises an eyebrow as he senses that he's getting somewhere with this, as incredulous as that seems...
Xavier Synn
So what you're basically saying is that, when Chavo arrives, he's going to be your leader? Is that right?
Doug almost looks shocked that Xavier would even think otherwise.
Doug Bean: You don't boss royalty around! We have King CHAVO's back. If CHAViTO want's us, he'll call for us.
Xavier just shakes his head. It's hard enough to figure out all the antics of the Sheglins in themselves, but it's almost harder to figure out when they're being serious.
Xavier Synn
Well then I guess we'll all be looking forward to it then. With the arrival of Chavo and the debut of the Arnold Classic, you boys are going to have one busy weekend...
Doug Bean huffs. Once again having been overlooked.
Doug Bean: Not to forget The Sheglins! We're in action too! ......but we dont want to take the spotlight away from CHAViTO and The Arnold Classic. SUCH BEASTS!!
Doug Bean wipes his goosey-brow.
Doug Bean: It's been....interesting meeting with a fellow humanoid. I'll personally send your best wishes to the King upon his arrival.
Xavier nods slowly, not sure what to say.
Xavier Synn
I guess I'd... appreciate that? Good luck next weekend.
Doug Bean frowns, then smiles, then frowns, rapidly for 3 seconds.
Doug Bean: You will not only appreciate it......you will ENJOY it! Anyway, thanking you, Mr. Synn! I shall do my best next week. BEEF 666!!!
Doug Bean adjusts his bra strap, turns and sprints down the corridor leaving Xavier bewildered. Xavier just watches Doug leave before shaking his head one last time, muttering to himself.
Xavier Synn
What the hell is this place coming to...
Backstage in Sacramento, Xavier Synn walks to the employee message board and pins up a note mentioning that there's a new "Indulging Synn" out, recapping Superbrawl II as well as all the backstage news and a preview of this week's Warzone. As he stands back to look at all the other notes on the board, Doug Bean approaches.
Doug Bean: Excuse me, squire. I have a VERY important notice to pin up.
Xavier takes a step back, holding out his arm to allow the Bean Brother by, alliteration aside, of course.
Xavier Synn
By all means, Doug. Anything interesting?
He feels like he has to ask. Truth be told, he's downright curious... Doug Bean holds his head up high, almost pompous, and turns it slightly towards Xavier Synn.
Doug Bean: Let me flip the script for a second. Let me ask YOU a question.
Doug clears his throat as he prepares to get serious.
Doug Bean: Are you clear on the card for next weeks 'Saturday Night Anarchy'?
Xavier shrugs, tilting his head.
Xavier Synn
I've glanced over it... is there something in particular that you're getting at?
Doug Bean: ....you've 'glanced' over it. Well, i'll have you know that The Arnold Classic is involved in his debut match! You should be excited! I know I am! What a seriously tasty prospect he is!
Doug smirks thinking that he's avoided Xavier's original enquiry. Xavier cocks an eyebrow.
Xavier Synn
The Arnold Classic? Seriously? It's about time that he's signed for match, in my opinion. The man's done little more than dance around the arenas across the country and get led out by security. But hey, your friends with the Arnold... he got anything special planned for his debut?
He's genuinely interested, as he can't quite visualize the Arnold Classic actually competing in a match. Doug Bean looks somewhat pleased.
Doug Bean: The Classic likes to dance I suppose. Just like we do. It doesnt always have to be serious! You can have abit of hoistly action in the backstage area! Look, he's just gonna go out and wrestle I suppose! The Arnold Classic? Did you see that guy take out the security the other week!? That was, until they outnumbered him.
Doug then looks unhappy for a split second. Then he looks at the paper instantly bringing a smile to his face. He waves it in front of Xavier. Xavier holds up his hands, fending off the Doug Bean.
Xavier Synn
OK, OK... what's on the note?
He straightens out his shirt as he takes a step back, a little frazzled by the man's actions... Doug stops and nods his head.
Doug Bean: I cant believe it! I'm so happy that he's seen sense! Just, well, look...............
Doug Bean takes a drawing pin from out of his pocket and pins the note on the wall.
(It's a note announcing the arrival of "King CHAVO" to the XHW)
Xavier Synn
You've got to be kidding... "King" Chavo? Is this serious?
He looks over at Doug, who's still grinning rather proudly at his handiwork. Doug Bean looks at Xavier Synn with a grin on his face!
Doug Bean: I'm Doug Bean. I ONLY do serious! Besides, I thought you'd be pleased! What a great SCOOP for you, no!?
Xavier shrugs as he strokes his chin, looking at the note.
Xavier Synn
I mean, it's a decent signing. We get a handful of big name, established superstars every year, and I guess this is no different... But wait, what do you have to do with this?
He turns to Doug, a confused look on his face. Doug puts his hands upon his hips.
Doug Bean: King CHAVO is a friend of ours. You could say that we're like family! We go way back to our days in an old company. He helped train us! We battled side by side. Sadly the company went bankrupt and we wents our seperate ways. He joined WCW and we toured the country. But now.........
Doug raises his eyebrows. Suggesting the fact that King CHAVO is officially signed. Xavier leans back against the wall.
Xavier Synn
So are we looking at a new member to the Sheglins family? You've already got you and your brother, Dr. James... excuse me, DR. JAMES ANDREWS, and the Arnold Classic...
Doug Bean: Woah, woah, woah! Hang on there. The Sheglins family? KING CHAVO!? No, no, no. We have too much respect for that. We couldnt allow royalty to become a part of our family. We are not worthy of King CHAVO's greatness! Tell me, have you ever met royalty, Synn?
Doug tilts his head. Xavier shrugs.
Xavier Synn
I guess that depends on your definition of "royalty," Mr. Bean...
He inwardly laughs.
Xavier Synn
But we've seen you and Chavo together quite often outside of your competing here. Why not welcome him in?
Doug Bean: King CHAVO someone that we respect and look up to. We simply are not worthy his greatness. He will serve and protect under his almighty ruling. All of us. What is ours is his. What he chooses to give us, we will gladly accept.
Xavier raises an eyebrow as he senses that he's getting somewhere with this, as incredulous as that seems...
Xavier Synn
So what you're basically saying is that, when Chavo arrives, he's going to be your leader? Is that right?
Doug Bean: You don't boss royalty around! We have King CHAVO's back. If CHAViTO want's us, he'll call for us.
Xavier just shakes his head. It's hard enough to figure out all the antics of the Sheglins in themselves, but it's almost harder to figure out when they're being serious.
Xavier Synn
Well then I guess we'll all be looking forward to it then. With the arrival of Chavo and the debut of the Arnold Classic, you boys are going to have one busy weekend...
Doug Bean: Not to forget The Sheglins! We're in action too! ......but we dont want to take the spotlight away from CHAViTO and The Arnold Classic. SUCH BEASTS!!
Doug Bean wipes his goosey-brow.
Doug Bean: It's been....interesting meeting with a fellow humanoid. I'll personally send your best wishes to the King upon his arrival.
Xavier nods slowly, not sure what to say.
Xavier Synn
I guess I'd... appreciate that? Good luck next weekend.
Doug Bean: You will not only appreciate it......you will ENJOY it! Anyway, thanking you, Mr. Synn! I shall do my best next week. BEEF 666!!!
Doug Bean adjusts his bra strap, turns and sprints down the corridor leaving Xavier bewildered. Xavier just watches Doug leave before shaking his head one last time, muttering to himself.
Xavier Synn
What the hell is this place coming to...
Anyway, there you have it. It appears that yet another star is defecting to the XHW, in the wake of both Awesome Kong and Taz arriving over Superbrawl II weekend, it appears that now Chavo Guerrero, or, as he's being hailed, "King CHAVO," will be coming to the XHW very soon. That's all I've got! Check back for more news soon!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Super Indeed...
Welcome back to "Indulging Synn," ladies and gentlemen. It's safe to say that I've been rather busy since the last installment of the blog, but it's all been worth it as we had a fantastic Superbrawl II weekend. Without more prose from me, let's get to the results.
First off, we had the Xtreme All Access pre-show on Saturday Night. It was a night that saw many feuds end, and some new stars continue to stake their claim...
In the night's opener, I think we ALL got a surprise with a rather brutal debut match for two Anarchy newcomers: Jezter and Joseph Woods. The two battled back and forth in a blood-spilling brawl that ended with Woods coming out on top. He wraps this one up with his vicious-looking "Texas Torture Rack"... No doubt there's more to come from these two gentlemen as they get their XHW careers under way.
The brutality didn't end in the second match as Anarchy rookie sIMON continues to impress. Claiming the victory over fellow Anarchist "The Chance" as well as X-Core member Alyx Gates, sIMON treated the Boston faithful to another version of his "Art or Anarchy" display. After wrapping a steel chain around the head and eyes of Alyx Gates, he, Ariel, and Jacob Widmore retreated to the back. Is anyone going to put a stop to this guy and his bizarre... work?
With a certain maniacal clown still on his mind, Reno Drake punished Caden Banks just for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Even after the bell, Drake refused to release his Wisconsin Death Trap, sending a message to Mr. Jingles.
Not only did BlkOut deliver on his promise to destroy Roxas Knoxx, he did it in sickening fashion. He beat her from pillar to post... with pillar and post. Knoxx was able to get one or two shots in, but it was never enough to make anyone think that she had a chance. Even with Maverick Harley making an appearance, BlkOut still found a way to fend him off, bludgeoning him with a screwdriver in the face before pinning Mav's love interest. More on this situation later...
Victor Mason and Kurt Angle finally got that submission match that the two were clamoring for. It seemed like a relatively back and forth affair between the two until Angle got the upper hand, trapping Mason in that Ankle-Lock that's damn near impossible to escape. After it was all over, however, the promise made to me earlier in the week was delivered. On his way up the entry ramp, Angle was attacked by Taz, getting taken down by the Tazmission... You can only guess what's going to happen between these two former rivals...
A new champion was born on Saturday night as well. In the first of many Anarchy rules matches to come, Doc Hammer pinned Johnny Blade to become the first ever Anarchy Champion. It was a real barn-burner for those hardcore fans, and it had everything from steel chairs to kendo sticks to a Hammer Down onto brass tacks. I can't wait to see the next one of these matches!
Try, try, and try again. That would be my recommendation to Diego Cortez after he failed against Mr. Jingles one-on-one for the second time. Anarchy's premier clown found a way to retain the Bronx Championship after a valiant effort from the Spaniard, showing that he has what it takes to stay at the top of the ladder when it comes to Saturday nights.
In the night's main event, the reigning XHW Tornado Tag Team Champions effectively put an end to any dispute that they are the cream of the crop when it comes to tag teams in the federation, if not the industry. It was a good effort from all three challengers (the DragonGate Clan, the Sheglins, and the Lynch Mob), but as they seem to do time and time again, Excessive Force retained. Will this heal the rifts between them over Hoss's recent relationship with Tyler Kiss, or will it simply delay the inevitable? Of course, perhaps we should ask a little more relevant, harder to answer question: who's next?
And then... it was time for the big show. It seemed like forever until Sunday rolled around, but when it did, Superbrawl II did not disappoint.
The night started with Giovanni Valentino coming out to remind us all one more time how great he is, only to be interrupted by the man that lets his actions do the talking: Hendrix Walker. It set the tone for a truly intense, electric night.
In the first match of the night, Aston Michaels and Johnny Sniper came out to finish their months-long feud. It was an all out brawl that saw both men kick out of finishing moves, and it seemed like neither of them would ever give up. In the end, however, someone had to go down, and after Sniper passed out with Aston locking in the sharpshooter, this one was all over. Hopefully this gave both men a little more respect for each other, it certainly showed me that they're determined to win.
The battle of the sexes was probably one of the more entertaining bouts of the night as the team of Razor Stiletto (Casey Dodge, O.D.B., and Tyler Kiss) took on Team Diver (Dirk Diver, Billy Coop, and the Iron Sheik). This had everything from low blows to french kisses and all that goes in between. In the end, it was the ladies coming out on top (no pun intended) as Tyler got the pin on Dirk. Maybe this one will put Diver in his place... but somehow I doubt it!
If not for the epic main event, the battle between North Starr and Asylum might have been the biggest grudge match of the night. After being tortured for years over his wife's death, Asylum fought to free the woman that he thought was his wife, seemingly back from the dead, only to find out after defeating North Starr that it was a look-alike, yet another cruel trick from his bitter nemesis. Is this one finally over, or will Asylum be looking to end North Starr in the XHW once and for all?
Who didn't see this coming? When J.T. Cash called out Rob Gunn for their previously scheduled match (BEFORE Gunn was taken out by the Next Generation), the worldwide audience thought Gunn would show since his music started to play. However, it was all just another ploy from Cash. Despite George Daniels, veteran XHW announcer, trying to chastise Cash for the move, he was promptly put in his place and Cash forced a referee to come down to the ring and count Gunn out, giving the Next Generation his "hard earned" victory... When Gunn comes back, this clown's going to have hell to pay.
Early on in the night, Ethan Price was confronted by Mike Hoss over who exactly the "Unknown Solider" is that keeps attacking him. Price refused to give up the information for fear of the Solider himself, and Hoss was promptly laid out by some knuckle dusters. Later, Price came out to introduce the world to his solider, revealing him as the long-thought-dead Alex Homme. Apparently the Hardcore Icon is back to claim his place as Mr. Hardcore in the XHW once again, taking offense to Hoss assuming that handle. I think it's safe to say there are a whole lot of questions that still need answering here...
Being Superbrawl II, almost every match deserved match of the night honors, and Christian Cage vs. Reinhardt in the Street Fight was no different. Both of these men gave it all that they had throughout this bout, and thankfully we didn't see any outside interference (call that J.B.L. incident what you will...). After it was all said and done, it was a worn out Reinhardt delivering a Hardt Burn onto a trolley for the pin.
In a match that pretty much saw action from almost every X-Core division member, the fatal fourway two fall X-Core and Universal Championship brawl saw one belt stay right where it was while the other moved on somewhere new. Draven Torette retained his X-Core title while pinned Scott Walker as he was locked in a Boston Crab by Eddie Rourke, and after interference from two more X-Core hopefuls (J.T. Cash and Daman Arress, who both stated their intent for the title earlier through the night), Rourke found a way to hit the Cutt Off on Turbine to win the Universal Championship. But it wasn't over then, after it was all said and done, we finally got the answer to Margaret-Anne York's "it" promotion, revealing that the Amazing Kong has come to the XHW!
It was a moment of glory for two fabled XHW superstars, Sara Foxx and Shaun Levy, as the two were inducted into the XHW Hall of Fame on Sunday. Foxx was inducted by her good friend and fellow Englishwoman Grace Rourke, while the man formerly known as the Boogie Man and Syxx66 was inducted by his nephew and former XHW Undisputed Champion in his own right, Jakk Levy. It was truly a great moment for both individuals, and a real treat for the XHW fans to see them in the ring one more time.
Finally it was time for the women to have their time in the ring as the Undisputed Women's Championship was set to be decided after being vacated at Full Throttle. Both women involved in that decision (Frankie Adams and Cordelia Murphy) were thrown into the mix along with new number one contender, Grace Rourke, to determine who the true champion is. Despite a valiant effort, Frankie was unable to come away with the victory, and Cordelia found a way to reclaim the belt that she held last, getting the pin over Rourke. The finale of this match was also viewed personally by Fixx as she came out to watch the ending. Could she be next in line to challenge for the title?
And then it was the men's turn. The Japanese Seaman came into this match against challengers Jay Adams and Johnny Diamond on a tremendous singles winning streak, but it was not to be on this night. All three men put on a tremendous effort for this Superbrawl event, and only one could come out on top. It was a fight that saw Diamond injure the Seaman's knee, as well as Jay Adams take some serious bumps from the champion. After it was all said and done, it was the Weapon of Mass Destruction walking away with the Undisputed Championship over his shoulder, gaining the pin after a WMD on the Seaman himself. The Jay Adams era has officially began... God help us!
Finally, after months of back and forth action between Giovanni Valentino and Dante West, as well as the nearly year-long feud between West and former XHW part-owner Hendrix Walker, the three were forced into the unforgiving Hell in a Cell to settle their differences. With Hogan Cage looking over the match, and several appearances from significant others (Lucy Logan, Dakota Burrows) and friends (Cordelia Murphy, Shaun Levy, Jakk Levy), it seems like this one will be nearly impossible to overcome for Match of the Year honors. Add the stipulation that the loser leaves the XHW, and the drama could not have been greater. In the end, a broken and nearly immobile Dante West found a way to use Giovanni as extra weight to keep the Enforcer's shoulder down on the mat, getting himself the win and sending Hendrix Walker packing from the federation. From part-owner to unemployed in under a week? That's how things can happen here in the greatest wrestling organization in the world! I'd like to out my personal well-wishes to Dante West as he embarks on his retirement, and want to let him know that all of us backstage are... well... pulling for him. It will also be interesting to see where Valentino goes from here, seeing as how he's the "sole survivor" of this hellacious Superbrawl II main event.
With all that wrapped up, we're pulling out of the biggest show of the year with a full head of steam! Here's what's going on in backstage news...
For those of you who didn't catch the last Anarchy before Superbrawl II, we saw a rather unique moment when newcomer Wesley Burns accidentally lit Bronko Allen on fire and earned his first victory. After the match, Alyx Gates tracked down the rookie and had a few words with him...
Also on that Anarchy, we saw Jimm Red come out to support former ally, North Starr, in his mind games against rival Asylum. The rest of the Next Generation was none too happy about it, and the cameras caught J.T. Cash sending that message personally to Red. Cash also met up with Draven Torette to remind him that he hasn't forgotten about his former championship, and that he'll be coming for it soon enough (in addition to going to Claire Logan to try and get a #1 contender's match for the belt). Later on in the week, new XHW fast-riser Talia stopped by to enjoy the Next Generation's company.
It looks like the NextGen members aren't the only ones upset with the new help that Starr and Asylum have found. Mav Harley took it personal when Asylum got Alyx Gates and Roxas Knoxx to help him out, and he wasn't shy about letting him know about it. Mav also had a heart-to-heart with Roxas Knoxx about her match against BlkOut at XAA, letting her know that he'd be there for her. In other BlkOut news, North Starr got an earful about Red from the bad attitude star, none too happy about the situation. Not only that, but Starr was chastised by fellow Project 242 member Claire Logan as well.
Is Mike Hoss starting to make friends after months of solitude? He might be. It looks like he and kindred dark soul sIMON had a chat at a local haunt recently. Of course, Hoss also found time before Superbrawl II weekend to get together with lo-ike interest Tyler Kiss. In other news, sIMON certainly hasn't been welcomed into the Project 242 fold just yet. He and North Starr can't even seem to coexist, as seen backstage recently when preparing to head to Boston for Superbrawl II weekend.
Before we found out that Awesome Kong is indeed the "it" that Margaret-Anne York has been speaking of, Jimm Red tried to pry it out of her himself, also insinuating that "it" will have to go through him first to get a shot at that coveted X-Core title.
The Dante West farewell talks got an interesting turn when he bumped into Shaun Levy backstage, on hand for his Hall of Fame induction in Boston. The two XHW legends shared stories, laughed, and talked retirement.
Dakota Burrows hasn't been seen much recently after her bout with the flu. However, she did find time to have a brief chat with Johnny Diamond about... business. She also had a little more extended talk with the man with the plan, J.T. Cash.
Could the first challenger to Jay Adams' brand new Undisputed Championship be fan favorite and recent XHW return, Roger Reinhardt? The two tossed the idea about in a chat before Superbrawl II, and since Reinhardt's not currently in a division, I think this is entirely possible!
A couple notes popped up on XHW.com just after Superbrawl II ended. For those of you who haven't heard yet, Christian Cage, Leon Washington of the Lynch Mob, and the Japanese Seaman suffered severe injuries at the big show. Mav Harley is also pretty beat up after attempting to help Roxas Knoxx in her match against BlkOut, but he might to able to go by next Saturday. Also, it appears that Claire Logan has been left in charge of Wednesday Night Warzone after sister Lucy has seemingly vanished along with her husband Hendrix Walker. God help us.
Also after Superbrawl II ended, Reinhardt bumped into new arrival Awesome Kong. It was a surprisingly upbeat conversation, and more or less established Kong's intentions here in the XHW.
It didn't take long for Doc Hammer to be hunted down after winning the Anarchy Championship. Both North Starr and Johnny Blade stopped by to catch up with the new title holder merely two days after he won the belt.
Koby Adams is back in the XHW after much speculation over his return. We had heard rumors all week about him being backstage, but were never quite able to catch him. However, after spotting him being shafted by Jay Adams after his Undisputed Championship win, Koby and Diego Cortez were seen talking family and wrestling in the hotel bar in Boston. Also, big cousin Jay was seen being helped backstage by wife FiXX as the two were heading out to celebrate his big victory.
Could Wesley Burns be creating enemies already? It looks like he doesn't have a fan in J.T. Cash. The two were seen backstage during the show at Superbrawl II, and Cash displayed that typical disrespectful attitude toward the newcomer, and it looked like they might come to blows...
What now? That's the question on Ben Hampton's mind after both his clients have gone down with knee injuries (Rob Gunn and the Japanese Seaman). Asylum sat down with the Manager of the Year outside the TD BankNorth Garden to talk about it. He (Asylum) also caught up with Alex Homme after the dead man's return to see what exactly he's all about. Homme was also seen with Claire Logan in a rather interesting encounter in Lucy Walker's office...
That's it for backstage news. Here's the card for this week's Warzone.
- The opening match sees some X-Core action as it appears that the division will have some serious competition in determining the new #1 contender to Draven Torette's belt. In this match-up, we'll see Johnny Sniper (coming off that vicious feud with Aston Michaels) and Daman Arress go at it.
- In the first of two women's division match-ups of the night, Casey Blue, who hasn't seen action in quite a while, will take on Grace Rourke, who's coming off that tough Undisputed Women's Championship loss at Superbrawl II.
- The second of three X-Core Divisional matches of the night will pit more recent #1 contender Scott Walker against the man next-closest to the title, Jimm Red.
- Our other women's division match will pit the so-far-undefeated Talia Arroyo against Razor Stiletto member Casey Dodge. This one looks like an interesting bout to me...
- If J.T. Cash wants to get that X-Core Championship shot, he'll have to take his first step against fellow division member Aston Michaels. No doubt both men have championship dreams, but one will be in a much better position after Wednesday.
- In the night's main event, Eddie Rourke will be coming out with his Universal Championship for the first time, and he's pitted against championship hopeful Joe Riggs in a non-title match. Could we be seeing a pay-per-view preview?
That's all I've got for this installment, folks. Join me next time as I wrap up Warzone and give you a preview of the next Saturday Night Anarchy! See you next time, and as always, thanks for indulging me!
First off, we had the Xtreme All Access pre-show on Saturday Night. It was a night that saw many feuds end, and some new stars continue to stake their claim...
In the night's opener, I think we ALL got a surprise with a rather brutal debut match for two Anarchy newcomers: Jezter and Joseph Woods. The two battled back and forth in a blood-spilling brawl that ended with Woods coming out on top. He wraps this one up with his vicious-looking "Texas Torture Rack"... No doubt there's more to come from these two gentlemen as they get their XHW careers under way.
The brutality didn't end in the second match as Anarchy rookie sIMON continues to impress. Claiming the victory over fellow Anarchist "The Chance" as well as X-Core member Alyx Gates, sIMON treated the Boston faithful to another version of his "Art or Anarchy" display. After wrapping a steel chain around the head and eyes of Alyx Gates, he, Ariel, and Jacob Widmore retreated to the back. Is anyone going to put a stop to this guy and his bizarre... work?
With a certain maniacal clown still on his mind, Reno Drake punished Caden Banks just for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Even after the bell, Drake refused to release his Wisconsin Death Trap, sending a message to Mr. Jingles.
Not only did BlkOut deliver on his promise to destroy Roxas Knoxx, he did it in sickening fashion. He beat her from pillar to post... with pillar and post. Knoxx was able to get one or two shots in, but it was never enough to make anyone think that she had a chance. Even with Maverick Harley making an appearance, BlkOut still found a way to fend him off, bludgeoning him with a screwdriver in the face before pinning Mav's love interest. More on this situation later...
Victor Mason and Kurt Angle finally got that submission match that the two were clamoring for. It seemed like a relatively back and forth affair between the two until Angle got the upper hand, trapping Mason in that Ankle-Lock that's damn near impossible to escape. After it was all over, however, the promise made to me earlier in the week was delivered. On his way up the entry ramp, Angle was attacked by Taz, getting taken down by the Tazmission... You can only guess what's going to happen between these two former rivals...
A new champion was born on Saturday night as well. In the first of many Anarchy rules matches to come, Doc Hammer pinned Johnny Blade to become the first ever Anarchy Champion. It was a real barn-burner for those hardcore fans, and it had everything from steel chairs to kendo sticks to a Hammer Down onto brass tacks. I can't wait to see the next one of these matches!
Try, try, and try again. That would be my recommendation to Diego Cortez after he failed against Mr. Jingles one-on-one for the second time. Anarchy's premier clown found a way to retain the Bronx Championship after a valiant effort from the Spaniard, showing that he has what it takes to stay at the top of the ladder when it comes to Saturday nights.
In the night's main event, the reigning XHW Tornado Tag Team Champions effectively put an end to any dispute that they are the cream of the crop when it comes to tag teams in the federation, if not the industry. It was a good effort from all three challengers (the DragonGate Clan, the Sheglins, and the Lynch Mob), but as they seem to do time and time again, Excessive Force retained. Will this heal the rifts between them over Hoss's recent relationship with Tyler Kiss, or will it simply delay the inevitable? Of course, perhaps we should ask a little more relevant, harder to answer question: who's next?
And then... it was time for the big show. It seemed like forever until Sunday rolled around, but when it did, Superbrawl II did not disappoint.
The night started with Giovanni Valentino coming out to remind us all one more time how great he is, only to be interrupted by the man that lets his actions do the talking: Hendrix Walker. It set the tone for a truly intense, electric night.
In the first match of the night, Aston Michaels and Johnny Sniper came out to finish their months-long feud. It was an all out brawl that saw both men kick out of finishing moves, and it seemed like neither of them would ever give up. In the end, however, someone had to go down, and after Sniper passed out with Aston locking in the sharpshooter, this one was all over. Hopefully this gave both men a little more respect for each other, it certainly showed me that they're determined to win.
The battle of the sexes was probably one of the more entertaining bouts of the night as the team of Razor Stiletto (Casey Dodge, O.D.B., and Tyler Kiss) took on Team Diver (Dirk Diver, Billy Coop, and the Iron Sheik). This had everything from low blows to french kisses and all that goes in between. In the end, it was the ladies coming out on top (no pun intended) as Tyler got the pin on Dirk. Maybe this one will put Diver in his place... but somehow I doubt it!
If not for the epic main event, the battle between North Starr and Asylum might have been the biggest grudge match of the night. After being tortured for years over his wife's death, Asylum fought to free the woman that he thought was his wife, seemingly back from the dead, only to find out after defeating North Starr that it was a look-alike, yet another cruel trick from his bitter nemesis. Is this one finally over, or will Asylum be looking to end North Starr in the XHW once and for all?
Who didn't see this coming? When J.T. Cash called out Rob Gunn for their previously scheduled match (BEFORE Gunn was taken out by the Next Generation), the worldwide audience thought Gunn would show since his music started to play. However, it was all just another ploy from Cash. Despite George Daniels, veteran XHW announcer, trying to chastise Cash for the move, he was promptly put in his place and Cash forced a referee to come down to the ring and count Gunn out, giving the Next Generation his "hard earned" victory... When Gunn comes back, this clown's going to have hell to pay.
Early on in the night, Ethan Price was confronted by Mike Hoss over who exactly the "Unknown Solider" is that keeps attacking him. Price refused to give up the information for fear of the Solider himself, and Hoss was promptly laid out by some knuckle dusters. Later, Price came out to introduce the world to his solider, revealing him as the long-thought-dead Alex Homme. Apparently the Hardcore Icon is back to claim his place as Mr. Hardcore in the XHW once again, taking offense to Hoss assuming that handle. I think it's safe to say there are a whole lot of questions that still need answering here...
Being Superbrawl II, almost every match deserved match of the night honors, and Christian Cage vs. Reinhardt in the Street Fight was no different. Both of these men gave it all that they had throughout this bout, and thankfully we didn't see any outside interference (call that J.B.L. incident what you will...). After it was all said and done, it was a worn out Reinhardt delivering a Hardt Burn onto a trolley for the pin.
In a match that pretty much saw action from almost every X-Core division member, the fatal fourway two fall X-Core and Universal Championship brawl saw one belt stay right where it was while the other moved on somewhere new. Draven Torette retained his X-Core title while pinned Scott Walker as he was locked in a Boston Crab by Eddie Rourke, and after interference from two more X-Core hopefuls (J.T. Cash and Daman Arress, who both stated their intent for the title earlier through the night), Rourke found a way to hit the Cutt Off on Turbine to win the Universal Championship. But it wasn't over then, after it was all said and done, we finally got the answer to Margaret-Anne York's "it" promotion, revealing that the Amazing Kong has come to the XHW!
It was a moment of glory for two fabled XHW superstars, Sara Foxx and Shaun Levy, as the two were inducted into the XHW Hall of Fame on Sunday. Foxx was inducted by her good friend and fellow Englishwoman Grace Rourke, while the man formerly known as the Boogie Man and Syxx66 was inducted by his nephew and former XHW Undisputed Champion in his own right, Jakk Levy. It was truly a great moment for both individuals, and a real treat for the XHW fans to see them in the ring one more time.
Finally it was time for the women to have their time in the ring as the Undisputed Women's Championship was set to be decided after being vacated at Full Throttle. Both women involved in that decision (Frankie Adams and Cordelia Murphy) were thrown into the mix along with new number one contender, Grace Rourke, to determine who the true champion is. Despite a valiant effort, Frankie was unable to come away with the victory, and Cordelia found a way to reclaim the belt that she held last, getting the pin over Rourke. The finale of this match was also viewed personally by Fixx as she came out to watch the ending. Could she be next in line to challenge for the title?
And then it was the men's turn. The Japanese Seaman came into this match against challengers Jay Adams and Johnny Diamond on a tremendous singles winning streak, but it was not to be on this night. All three men put on a tremendous effort for this Superbrawl event, and only one could come out on top. It was a fight that saw Diamond injure the Seaman's knee, as well as Jay Adams take some serious bumps from the champion. After it was all said and done, it was the Weapon of Mass Destruction walking away with the Undisputed Championship over his shoulder, gaining the pin after a WMD on the Seaman himself. The Jay Adams era has officially began... God help us!
Finally, after months of back and forth action between Giovanni Valentino and Dante West, as well as the nearly year-long feud between West and former XHW part-owner Hendrix Walker, the three were forced into the unforgiving Hell in a Cell to settle their differences. With Hogan Cage looking over the match, and several appearances from significant others (Lucy Logan, Dakota Burrows) and friends (Cordelia Murphy, Shaun Levy, Jakk Levy), it seems like this one will be nearly impossible to overcome for Match of the Year honors. Add the stipulation that the loser leaves the XHW, and the drama could not have been greater. In the end, a broken and nearly immobile Dante West found a way to use Giovanni as extra weight to keep the Enforcer's shoulder down on the mat, getting himself the win and sending Hendrix Walker packing from the federation. From part-owner to unemployed in under a week? That's how things can happen here in the greatest wrestling organization in the world! I'd like to out my personal well-wishes to Dante West as he embarks on his retirement, and want to let him know that all of us backstage are... well... pulling for him. It will also be interesting to see where Valentino goes from here, seeing as how he's the "sole survivor" of this hellacious Superbrawl II main event.
With all that wrapped up, we're pulling out of the biggest show of the year with a full head of steam! Here's what's going on in backstage news...
For those of you who didn't catch the last Anarchy before Superbrawl II, we saw a rather unique moment when newcomer Wesley Burns accidentally lit Bronko Allen on fire and earned his first victory. After the match, Alyx Gates tracked down the rookie and had a few words with him...
Also on that Anarchy, we saw Jimm Red come out to support former ally, North Starr, in his mind games against rival Asylum. The rest of the Next Generation was none too happy about it, and the cameras caught J.T. Cash sending that message personally to Red. Cash also met up with Draven Torette to remind him that he hasn't forgotten about his former championship, and that he'll be coming for it soon enough (in addition to going to Claire Logan to try and get a #1 contender's match for the belt). Later on in the week, new XHW fast-riser Talia stopped by to enjoy the Next Generation's company.
It looks like the NextGen members aren't the only ones upset with the new help that Starr and Asylum have found. Mav Harley took it personal when Asylum got Alyx Gates and Roxas Knoxx to help him out, and he wasn't shy about letting him know about it. Mav also had a heart-to-heart with Roxas Knoxx about her match against BlkOut at XAA, letting her know that he'd be there for her. In other BlkOut news, North Starr got an earful about Red from the bad attitude star, none too happy about the situation. Not only that, but Starr was chastised by fellow Project 242 member Claire Logan as well.
Is Mike Hoss starting to make friends after months of solitude? He might be. It looks like he and kindred dark soul sIMON had a chat at a local haunt recently. Of course, Hoss also found time before Superbrawl II weekend to get together with lo-ike interest Tyler Kiss. In other news, sIMON certainly hasn't been welcomed into the Project 242 fold just yet. He and North Starr can't even seem to coexist, as seen backstage recently when preparing to head to Boston for Superbrawl II weekend.
Before we found out that Awesome Kong is indeed the "it" that Margaret-Anne York has been speaking of, Jimm Red tried to pry it out of her himself, also insinuating that "it" will have to go through him first to get a shot at that coveted X-Core title.
The Dante West farewell talks got an interesting turn when he bumped into Shaun Levy backstage, on hand for his Hall of Fame induction in Boston. The two XHW legends shared stories, laughed, and talked retirement.
Dakota Burrows hasn't been seen much recently after her bout with the flu. However, she did find time to have a brief chat with Johnny Diamond about... business. She also had a little more extended talk with the man with the plan, J.T. Cash.
Could the first challenger to Jay Adams' brand new Undisputed Championship be fan favorite and recent XHW return, Roger Reinhardt? The two tossed the idea about in a chat before Superbrawl II, and since Reinhardt's not currently in a division, I think this is entirely possible!
A couple notes popped up on XHW.com just after Superbrawl II ended. For those of you who haven't heard yet, Christian Cage, Leon Washington of the Lynch Mob, and the Japanese Seaman suffered severe injuries at the big show. Mav Harley is also pretty beat up after attempting to help Roxas Knoxx in her match against BlkOut, but he might to able to go by next Saturday. Also, it appears that Claire Logan has been left in charge of Wednesday Night Warzone after sister Lucy has seemingly vanished along with her husband Hendrix Walker. God help us.
Also after Superbrawl II ended, Reinhardt bumped into new arrival Awesome Kong. It was a surprisingly upbeat conversation, and more or less established Kong's intentions here in the XHW.
It didn't take long for Doc Hammer to be hunted down after winning the Anarchy Championship. Both North Starr and Johnny Blade stopped by to catch up with the new title holder merely two days after he won the belt.
Koby Adams is back in the XHW after much speculation over his return. We had heard rumors all week about him being backstage, but were never quite able to catch him. However, after spotting him being shafted by Jay Adams after his Undisputed Championship win, Koby and Diego Cortez were seen talking family and wrestling in the hotel bar in Boston. Also, big cousin Jay was seen being helped backstage by wife FiXX as the two were heading out to celebrate his big victory.
Could Wesley Burns be creating enemies already? It looks like he doesn't have a fan in J.T. Cash. The two were seen backstage during the show at Superbrawl II, and Cash displayed that typical disrespectful attitude toward the newcomer, and it looked like they might come to blows...
What now? That's the question on Ben Hampton's mind after both his clients have gone down with knee injuries (Rob Gunn and the Japanese Seaman). Asylum sat down with the Manager of the Year outside the TD BankNorth Garden to talk about it. He (Asylum) also caught up with Alex Homme after the dead man's return to see what exactly he's all about. Homme was also seen with Claire Logan in a rather interesting encounter in Lucy Walker's office...
That's it for backstage news. Here's the card for this week's Warzone.
- The opening match sees some X-Core action as it appears that the division will have some serious competition in determining the new #1 contender to Draven Torette's belt. In this match-up, we'll see Johnny Sniper (coming off that vicious feud with Aston Michaels) and Daman Arress go at it.
- In the first of two women's division match-ups of the night, Casey Blue, who hasn't seen action in quite a while, will take on Grace Rourke, who's coming off that tough Undisputed Women's Championship loss at Superbrawl II.
- The second of three X-Core Divisional matches of the night will pit more recent #1 contender Scott Walker against the man next-closest to the title, Jimm Red.
- Our other women's division match will pit the so-far-undefeated Talia Arroyo against Razor Stiletto member Casey Dodge. This one looks like an interesting bout to me...
- If J.T. Cash wants to get that X-Core Championship shot, he'll have to take his first step against fellow division member Aston Michaels. No doubt both men have championship dreams, but one will be in a much better position after Wednesday.
- In the night's main event, Eddie Rourke will be coming out with his Universal Championship for the first time, and he's pitted against championship hopeful Joe Riggs in a non-title match. Could we be seeing a pay-per-view preview?
That's all I've got for this installment, folks. Join me next time as I wrap up Warzone and give you a preview of the next Saturday Night Anarchy! See you next time, and as always, thanks for indulging me!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
How Juicy...
Hey there, snakes and scorpions. We're midway through Superbrawl II week here, and I just wanted to fill you all in on a juicy little tidbit that I heard backstage (from a source that I will not reveal). It turns out that this weekend, on Xtreme All Access, we're going to see a brand new XHW star emerge. However... this won't be a new star to everyone: it's going to be an established, well-known superstar from the annals of wrestling history. Without revealing too much, I can tell you that it's going to be a former ECW Television and Heavyweight Champion, and a man that's sure to make an impact on the XHW roster when he finally arrives. Could this be Margaret-Anne York's "it"? Could it be the mysterious figure that's been tormenting Mike Hoss? Only time will tell, but I can assure you that you won't be disappointed! That's all I've got for now. And if you hear anything, give me a buzz! Thanks for indulging me, even it was just for a brief time...
Sunday, April 6, 2008
End of the Road...
Welcome back to a fresh, piping hot edition of "Indulging Synn," birds and bees. This one comes to you a little late, but no worse for the wear. I have to be honest: it's been a bruising, hellacious week leading up to the biggest show of the year, but it's all been worth it. Finally though, all the lead ins, all the build up is finally over, and it's time to get this party started. Before we get on to the preview for this next weekends events, let's run down what happened on both of the final shows leading up to it.
Over on Warzone, it was certainly chaos in the Stomping Grounds. The show started with Alyx Gates and the Gates Crew completely vandalizing Jimm Red's limousine before riding up to the show with it. None of the Next Generation seemed to pleased with the move, least of all Red. It ended up being a busy night for the junior NextGen member. Not only did he manage to get a victory over Gates in their one-on-one match, but he also announced that he's being taken under John Bradshaw Layfield's wing, and even bumped into Diego Cortez before his main event match against J.T. Cash, giving him a little "extra motivation" if you will. Believe it or not, we've got more on Jimm later on when I recap Anarchy.
Since we were broadcasting from the Stomping Grounds, it seems that Lucy Walker took the occasion to conduct a little house cleaning. Following the newcomer battle royal held on Anarchy last week, everyone except for Caden Banks (who won the match, incidentally) was fired on the spot. That includes Matt Shin'ichi, Tony Dean, Christopher James Myers, Xavier Cross, Jerikai, Sean Kalup, Night Stalker, and James Green. It almost makes me regret having mentioned the lot of them last week!
The debut of Talia Arroyo was no fluke. This week on Warzone she managed to take out O.D.B. for the pin in a triple threat match that also featured Roxas Knoxx. Although Arroyo got the victory, Knoxx showed a little more spunk in this one than she has in other recent outings. More on all of these ladies when we get to Anarchy.
It was a bit of an odd scene when Tiger Komaru taunted Turbine prior to his match with Scott Walker. It seems as if there's some sort of history between these two, as Tiger constantly referred to the Universal Champion as "little dragon." It was all for naught, however, as Turbine dispatched of Walker later in the night, as well as accepted the match put forward by Eddie Rourke at Superbrawl II. More on this later.
Margaret-Anne York is nothing if not consistent. After nearly every single show has featured the ominous promotion for her impending client, she reminded us yet again this week that whoever leaves SB2 with the X-Core Championship will be squarely in the crosshairs of "it." I guess we'll just have to wait and see a little while longer...
I'm still wondering exactly why we've hired the Arnold Classic here at XHW. He made yet another appearance on Warzone, although this time he displayed a few deft maneuvers at the expense of some of the Warzone security guards. Maybe he'll get a match one day... Maybe.
The bout between Mike Hoss and Aston Michaels was turning into a rather well-fought battle before the lights went out and something put the Hellraiser down for the count, allowing Michaels to score the pin. With the sound of crows in the air and that mysterious, black-hooded figure standing over him in the ring, it seemed like it was doomsday for Hoss, but tag-team partner Joe Riggs raced down to the ring to save the day right at the last moment. Whoever the mystery man is, he might want to keep that identity under wraps. Just after leaving backstage, Aston too was attacked, but not by a mystery assailant, by Johnny Sniper. The animosity between those two is bound to boil over at SB2.
Speaking of animosity, you won't find more of it than the impending main event at SB2 between Dante West, Giovanni Valentino, and Hendrix Walker. After defeating Cage with his "Squeal for my, Bitch!" submission maneuver, West was verbally, then physically assaulted by Walker. The two brawled for a good few minutes, neither really getting a big advantage on the other, when Valentino raced out of the crowd with a steel chair, laying out both men. Not only that, he then produced a steel pipe, taking it to Hendrix's leg before taking both men out again, this time with matching "FuhGetAboutIts." I can't wait for this one!
In the main event, it was Anarchy vs. Warzone, Good vs. Evil, Diego Cortez vs. J.T. Cash. In the bout that earned match of the night honors, it was Cortez coming out on top in a repeat ending of the match these two had a few months back. It didn't end there, however, as Mr. Jingles and Dirk Diver arrived to attack the Spaniard. And after Jingles satiated his thirst for blood, he tried to escape via the entrance ramp, only to get bowled over by Reno Drake. With Anarchy spilling over onto the flagship show yet again, the night was through.
Whew!
Now, as intense as Warzone was, Saturday Night Anarchy certainly rivaled it later on in the week. The show kicked off with Hogan Cage making an appearance to remind us that he'll be calling the main event right down the middle, despite his history with Hendrix Walker. Cage will be referring the Hell in a Cell Main Event at Superbrawl II, for those of you have been living under a rock for the past two months...
Reno Drake finally got to release a little bit of that pent up aggression alongside his new, official gal pal Jada when the two of them took on the Sheglins, Doug and Danny Bean. The Bean Brothers were looking to send a message to the rest of the tag teams that they were legitimate, but they just didn't have enough in the tank to handle the sheer ferocity of the Silent Assassin who pinned Danny for the victory.
Jimm Red decided that his Next Generation teammate, Johnny Diamond, could use a little commercial assistance going into SB2. Debuted this week on Anarchy was the Red-inspired "Juicy Juice" commercial belittling the Japanese Seaman and Jay Adams while rewarding fans of Johnny Diamond. Interesting enough, I suppose...
Talia Arroyo and Roxas Knoxx squared off on Saturday for the second time in four days, this time throwing Undisputed Women's Championship hopeful Grace Rourke into the mix. If it weren't for the interference by Frankie Adams on Rourke, she might have picked up the victory on this night. As it was, Arroyo just piled up yet another pinfall, getting over on Knoxx for the win.
BlkOut made an appearance to let Maverick Harley know that he'll take that challenge laid down by the Anti-Aircraft superstar for the Anarchy after SB2, a Falls Count Anywhere match. At the same time, he took the liberty of letting Harley know that he and Claire Logan have arranged a match with Harley's like-interest Roxas Knoxx in a No Disqualification Match at Xtreme All Access during SB2 weekend. My guess? That won't help Knoxx's recent losing streak one bit...
In what had to be considered one of the most bizarre, shocking moments of the night, Wesley Burns had his debut match against Bronko Allen and Rhett Wildman. Just when it seemed that Burns wasn't going to get that sought after first victory, he seemed to snap, executing what I'm now being told is the "Burn Baby Burn," blowing a fire ball using butane and a lighter into both men's faces. Unfortunately for Bronko Allen, his long beard actually ignited as well, eventually spreading to his clothes. The intensity and ferociousness on display earned Burns the win, and probably a little more personal space in the back hallways...
Unstoppable? That's the rumor going around backstage as Shark Boy picked up yet another victory this week, this time over XHW vet Victor Mason. That Deep Sea Stunner sure serves the fishy one well...
It was an entertaining sight when the world got to see a little preview of the match between Razor Stiletto (Casey Dodge, O.D.B., and Tyler Kiss) and team Diver (Dirk Diver, Billy Coop, and the Iron Sheik) in a commercial spot. The bar room brawl ended with team Diver lying in the mud while Razor Stiletto got drinks on the house...
Another win for sIMON, another "Art or Anarchy" moment. This time, Caden Banks was the victim, and sIMON got a little help from both his manager, Jacob Widmore, and his lady-friend/vampire beast, Ariel. After a few bizarre moments which I don't care to repeat here, the end result was Banks with the words "NO1" painted in red on his chest. Creepy.
The Arnold Classic. Elise Jones. Misunderstanding. Broken English. Security. Back to you, George and Paige. Does that about sum it up for you?
It was a fitting sight for Anarchy when Excessive Force took on Dirk Diver and Billy Coop with O.D.B. referring, Tyler Kiss keeping the time, and Casey Dodge taking ring announcer duties. Throw Tiger Komaru attempting to interfere and O.D.B. giving Mike Hoss a bit of assist in turning over a small package by Diver, and you have a good old fashion fast-count screw job. Can't wait for that six-person tag!
The main event won match of the night honors for the second show in a row, and it was the second show in a row that saw Diego Cortez getting the pin as well, this time over North Starr. As entertaining as the match was (also featuring Asylum and Mr. Jingles), the post-match incident was much more memorable. After getting a safe distance away from Asylum up the entrance ramp, Starr pointed to the JumboTron to show Jimm Red and much of the rest of Project 242 with the person that isn't quite dead yet, revealing it as Asylum's wife, Crystal London! This is a twist that I don't think anyone saw coming, and can only add fuel to the fire at their match at SB2. Also, not only will Alyx Gates and Roxas Knoxx be on hand to keep Project 242 at bay, but now Jimm Red will be there on North Starr's side, rekindling an old business relationship that brought Starr into the XHW.
WHEW AGAIN!
Now let's get to what's going on backstage. In the time leading up to SB2, it's been a flurry of activity.
First off, in a quiet interview with a healing Jakk Levy I found out a real rumor killer for you net heads. Jakk Levy and Jasmine Edmunds are indeed expecting their first child together and have been for some months. The two kept quiet until now about it to make sure everything with baby Edmunds-Levy was healthy. I believe Jasmine is due to give birth in the summer. This comes hot on the bombshell and the "promise," his words, not mine, that Jakk Levy will return at Barely Legal 2008 after his shoulder surgery seemingly months ago.
Now that his X-Core title hopes are officially on hold, Alyx Gates seems to be more and more in Asylum's corner. They been seen together in a few incidents backstage, most recently after the reveal of Crystal London.
Could a new management pairing be in the works? That seems like the case when it comes to Talia Arroyo and Roger Michaels. They were seen talking business before Uncle Roger caught Talia's match at Warzone last week.
It looks like Victor Mason and Kurt Angle are going to finally throw down. They nearly did last week when Angle called out Mason to the ring in front of the XHW fans.
Jimm Red's been awfully busy recently. He was all over the place on Warzone, and he still seemed none-too-pleased afterwards when he talked with Scott Walker. He also took the time to explain himself to some fans after Anarchy, being joined by Johnny Blade.
I don't know if you caught it, but after I posted last week's blog, I caught up with Reinhardt, not too long after his brutal match against Mike Hoss and later on against Dante West. It was a good, interesting chat.
As busy as Jimm Red's been, I think sIMON's outdone him. By my recollection, he's been asking Jacob Widmore for permission, been caught patronizing a couple of Mr. Jingles' crazed fans, and having a brief chat with Mike Hoss. In other incidents, those same crazed fans were spotted hanging out with O.D.B. at a local bar and accosting Asylum backstage at the Stomping Grounds.
Will Cleaven Audrey stick around this time? After an extended absence, he was spotted assuming that Grace Rourke was single... Big mistake to make, my friend.
J.T. Cash sure hates losing. After being defeated by Diego Cortez for a second time, he bumped into Scott Walker in one incident, and then vented to J.B.L. in another. Walker also talked over X-Core aspirations with Daman Arress.
In the days leading up to their main event fracas on Anarchy, Diego Cortez and North Starr exchanged barbs in the Stomping Grounds gym. This one you've gotta see...
Check this out. It's a note explaining how Hendrix Walker's last act as 50% owner of the XHW was to declare the SB2 Main Event a "Loser Leaves XHW" stipulation, adding even more hype to this already heavily anticipated bout.
Reno Drake and Jada took time out of their training schedules to talk over their match against the Sheglins, making sure that they are on the same page. Also last week, Jada was brutally attacked again, this time at home, by the psychopath, Mr. Jingles.
Apparently Mav Harley is out of the hospital and wants me to put an end to the rumors, so here it is: he and Roxas Knoxx... LIKE EACH OTHER. Let that thought blow your mind for a few minutes, and I'll continue. Good. Harley was also seen talking with former potential ally Asylum, wondering just what happened to their plans.
Jakk Levy is being spotted again backstage. He recently ran into Johnny Sniper who was very excited to meet the XHW vet in person.
As is becoming his custom, Wesley Burns has been pretty active backstage. He was spotted just after his promo having a chat with Alyx Gates (who seemed impressed), working out in the gym while being creeped out by Mr. Jingles and his handler, and then again after his debut speaking with Gates once more.
Christian Cage is back, and so are his shenanigans. He now wishes to be called "Sir Christian Cage," and his music is being changed. Read about it here.
BlkOut and Claire Logan were seen discussing their plans for Roxas Knoxx recently... amongst other things...
In Boston for his Hal of Fame induction is a familiar face: Shaun Levy. The man formerly known at Syxx66 was caught chatting with old coworker Dante West about injuries and the SB2 main event.
Boy oh boy does Jay Adams hate getting interrupted for no reason. Alyx Gates found out the hard way what that's all about...
KAPOW!
Now that all that old stuff is out of the way, let's take a look at this weekend's Superbrawl II excitement!
At Xtreme All Access, here's how the card shapes up:
- In the opener, two debuts take place as the quirky Jezter takes on the cowboy, Joseph Wood.
- sIMON gets his chance to step up against some viable competition as he takes on former reality star Cleaven Audrey and X-Core member Alyx Gates.
- After the Anarchy Cup match was scrapped (you'll see why later on), Reno Drake has been placed in a match against newcomer battle royal victor (or should I say "survivor" now) Caden Banks.
- Roxas Knoxx will have her hands full in the aforementioned No Disqualification match against BlkOut.
- Kurt Angle and Victor Mason will ply their trade in a Submission Match as their spat has escalated over Mason's attacks on referees, and then Angle's lack of respect for him.
- In the match that has replaced the Anarchy Cup, a new champion will be crowned. Constructed from the remnants of the now defunct chalice, the Anarchy Championship will be contested between Doc Hammer and Johnny Blade. The new belt will be the lowest ranked in the XHW, but still a prize that will no doubt be hunted.
- To decide the other prize on Anarchy, it will be the long awaited Diego Cortez and Mr. Jingles rematch. After the actions taken by Jingles and his handler in the weeks leading up to this, the intensity has only grown.
- The main event of XAA will be the Tornado Tag Team Championship match pitting four teams against each other. Challenging the seemingly unstoppable Excessive Force will be the DragonGate Clan, the Sheglins, and the Lynch Mob. Will the rift between Joe Riggs and Mike Hoss be fully healed by the time this match rolls around? Only time will tell.
And then, ladies and gentlemen, we have the big show, the King Size show: Superbrawl II. This card is loaded from top to bottom, and I personally cannot wait to see how it plays out.
- In an opener that's had more build up than most companies' main events, Johnny Sniper and Aston Michaels will settle their differences with a No DQ match. This one could get ugly real quick...
- The "Battle of the Sexes" match between Razor Stiletto (Casey Dodge, O.D.B., and Tyler Kiss) and team Diver (Dirk Diver, Billy Coop, and the Iron Sheik) has been brewing almost since Diver arrived on the scene here in the XHW. Don't forget, Max Turner and Diego Cortez will be at ringside for this one. I expect LOTS of hair pulling, if you catch my drift...
- In a match that might as well have "Grudge Match" tattooed on its forehead, Asylum and North Starr will finally go at it, one-on-one, in the unforgiving steel cage. This promises not to end pretty regardless of who walks out of it with their hand raised.
- I'm still curious as to how this is going to happen, but it's on the card either way. Rob Gunn has not been cleared to wrestle, but he's scheduled to go up against J.T. Cash at SB2.
- Even since Full Throttle and the ruining of the "Battle Without Honor or Humanity," Christian Cage has wanted Reinhardt in the ring once again. After repeated attacks, even one on Reinhardt's fiance Sara Foxx, he'll finally get him in a Street Fight.
- With one of the more unique ideas to hit the federation in some time, we'll see the X-Core and Universal Championships decided in a two fall match. The first victor gets the X-Core Championship, the second the Universal. Fighting for the prizes will be Draven Torette (current X-Core Champ), Scott Walker, Turbine (current Universal Champ), and the dream-weaver of this event, Eddie Rourke. Could we see a double champion walk out?
- Two long time standouts in the annals of the federation will be honored when Syxx66 (Shaun Levy) and Sara Foxx get inducted into the XHW Hall of Fame. It's going to be a special moment for both of those two.
- We'll finally (hopefully!) get ourselves an Undisputed Women's Champion after SB2. Cordelia Murphy and Frankie Adams certainly won't have any love lost for each other, and when you throw Grace Rourke into the mix it's bound to get ugly.
- One of the first matches booked for the show, the Undisputed Championship will be decided between three men: Jay Adams, Johnny Diamond, and the current champion, the Japanese Seaman. You couldn't throw three more different men into this match, and I'm interested to see how it all plays out.
- And finally, the main event, the match that everyone is talking about worldwide. It's the Hell in a Cell, Loser Leaves XHW, Special Guest Referee Hogan Cage match between Dante West, Hendrix Walker, and Giovanni Valentino. I don't even have to tell you how big this is, or how it's West's last match in the federation either way. Just sit back, watch, and enjoy!
And I'm spent. Join me after Superbrawl II for a complete rundown of everything that happened! For the XHW, I'm Xavier Synn... Thanks for indulging me!
Over on Warzone, it was certainly chaos in the Stomping Grounds. The show started with Alyx Gates and the Gates Crew completely vandalizing Jimm Red's limousine before riding up to the show with it. None of the Next Generation seemed to pleased with the move, least of all Red. It ended up being a busy night for the junior NextGen member. Not only did he manage to get a victory over Gates in their one-on-one match, but he also announced that he's being taken under John Bradshaw Layfield's wing, and even bumped into Diego Cortez before his main event match against J.T. Cash, giving him a little "extra motivation" if you will. Believe it or not, we've got more on Jimm later on when I recap Anarchy.
Since we were broadcasting from the Stomping Grounds, it seems that Lucy Walker took the occasion to conduct a little house cleaning. Following the newcomer battle royal held on Anarchy last week, everyone except for Caden Banks (who won the match, incidentally) was fired on the spot. That includes Matt Shin'ichi, Tony Dean, Christopher James Myers, Xavier Cross, Jerikai, Sean Kalup, Night Stalker, and James Green. It almost makes me regret having mentioned the lot of them last week!
The debut of Talia Arroyo was no fluke. This week on Warzone she managed to take out O.D.B. for the pin in a triple threat match that also featured Roxas Knoxx. Although Arroyo got the victory, Knoxx showed a little more spunk in this one than she has in other recent outings. More on all of these ladies when we get to Anarchy.
It was a bit of an odd scene when Tiger Komaru taunted Turbine prior to his match with Scott Walker. It seems as if there's some sort of history between these two, as Tiger constantly referred to the Universal Champion as "little dragon." It was all for naught, however, as Turbine dispatched of Walker later in the night, as well as accepted the match put forward by Eddie Rourke at Superbrawl II. More on this later.
Margaret-Anne York is nothing if not consistent. After nearly every single show has featured the ominous promotion for her impending client, she reminded us yet again this week that whoever leaves SB2 with the X-Core Championship will be squarely in the crosshairs of "it." I guess we'll just have to wait and see a little while longer...
I'm still wondering exactly why we've hired the Arnold Classic here at XHW. He made yet another appearance on Warzone, although this time he displayed a few deft maneuvers at the expense of some of the Warzone security guards. Maybe he'll get a match one day... Maybe.
The bout between Mike Hoss and Aston Michaels was turning into a rather well-fought battle before the lights went out and something put the Hellraiser down for the count, allowing Michaels to score the pin. With the sound of crows in the air and that mysterious, black-hooded figure standing over him in the ring, it seemed like it was doomsday for Hoss, but tag-team partner Joe Riggs raced down to the ring to save the day right at the last moment. Whoever the mystery man is, he might want to keep that identity under wraps. Just after leaving backstage, Aston too was attacked, but not by a mystery assailant, by Johnny Sniper. The animosity between those two is bound to boil over at SB2.
Speaking of animosity, you won't find more of it than the impending main event at SB2 between Dante West, Giovanni Valentino, and Hendrix Walker. After defeating Cage with his "Squeal for my, Bitch!" submission maneuver, West was verbally, then physically assaulted by Walker. The two brawled for a good few minutes, neither really getting a big advantage on the other, when Valentino raced out of the crowd with a steel chair, laying out both men. Not only that, he then produced a steel pipe, taking it to Hendrix's leg before taking both men out again, this time with matching "FuhGetAboutIts." I can't wait for this one!
In the main event, it was Anarchy vs. Warzone, Good vs. Evil, Diego Cortez vs. J.T. Cash. In the bout that earned match of the night honors, it was Cortez coming out on top in a repeat ending of the match these two had a few months back. It didn't end there, however, as Mr. Jingles and Dirk Diver arrived to attack the Spaniard. And after Jingles satiated his thirst for blood, he tried to escape via the entrance ramp, only to get bowled over by Reno Drake. With Anarchy spilling over onto the flagship show yet again, the night was through.
Whew!
Now, as intense as Warzone was, Saturday Night Anarchy certainly rivaled it later on in the week. The show kicked off with Hogan Cage making an appearance to remind us that he'll be calling the main event right down the middle, despite his history with Hendrix Walker. Cage will be referring the Hell in a Cell Main Event at Superbrawl II, for those of you have been living under a rock for the past two months...
Reno Drake finally got to release a little bit of that pent up aggression alongside his new, official gal pal Jada when the two of them took on the Sheglins, Doug and Danny Bean. The Bean Brothers were looking to send a message to the rest of the tag teams that they were legitimate, but they just didn't have enough in the tank to handle the sheer ferocity of the Silent Assassin who pinned Danny for the victory.
Jimm Red decided that his Next Generation teammate, Johnny Diamond, could use a little commercial assistance going into SB2. Debuted this week on Anarchy was the Red-inspired "Juicy Juice" commercial belittling the Japanese Seaman and Jay Adams while rewarding fans of Johnny Diamond. Interesting enough, I suppose...
Talia Arroyo and Roxas Knoxx squared off on Saturday for the second time in four days, this time throwing Undisputed Women's Championship hopeful Grace Rourke into the mix. If it weren't for the interference by Frankie Adams on Rourke, she might have picked up the victory on this night. As it was, Arroyo just piled up yet another pinfall, getting over on Knoxx for the win.
BlkOut made an appearance to let Maverick Harley know that he'll take that challenge laid down by the Anti-Aircraft superstar for the Anarchy after SB2, a Falls Count Anywhere match. At the same time, he took the liberty of letting Harley know that he and Claire Logan have arranged a match with Harley's like-interest Roxas Knoxx in a No Disqualification Match at Xtreme All Access during SB2 weekend. My guess? That won't help Knoxx's recent losing streak one bit...
In what had to be considered one of the most bizarre, shocking moments of the night, Wesley Burns had his debut match against Bronko Allen and Rhett Wildman. Just when it seemed that Burns wasn't going to get that sought after first victory, he seemed to snap, executing what I'm now being told is the "Burn Baby Burn," blowing a fire ball using butane and a lighter into both men's faces. Unfortunately for Bronko Allen, his long beard actually ignited as well, eventually spreading to his clothes. The intensity and ferociousness on display earned Burns the win, and probably a little more personal space in the back hallways...
Unstoppable? That's the rumor going around backstage as Shark Boy picked up yet another victory this week, this time over XHW vet Victor Mason. That Deep Sea Stunner sure serves the fishy one well...
It was an entertaining sight when the world got to see a little preview of the match between Razor Stiletto (Casey Dodge, O.D.B., and Tyler Kiss) and team Diver (Dirk Diver, Billy Coop, and the Iron Sheik) in a commercial spot. The bar room brawl ended with team Diver lying in the mud while Razor Stiletto got drinks on the house...
Another win for sIMON, another "Art or Anarchy" moment. This time, Caden Banks was the victim, and sIMON got a little help from both his manager, Jacob Widmore, and his lady-friend/vampire beast, Ariel. After a few bizarre moments which I don't care to repeat here, the end result was Banks with the words "NO1" painted in red on his chest. Creepy.
The Arnold Classic. Elise Jones. Misunderstanding. Broken English. Security. Back to you, George and Paige. Does that about sum it up for you?
It was a fitting sight for Anarchy when Excessive Force took on Dirk Diver and Billy Coop with O.D.B. referring, Tyler Kiss keeping the time, and Casey Dodge taking ring announcer duties. Throw Tiger Komaru attempting to interfere and O.D.B. giving Mike Hoss a bit of assist in turning over a small package by Diver, and you have a good old fashion fast-count screw job. Can't wait for that six-person tag!
The main event won match of the night honors for the second show in a row, and it was the second show in a row that saw Diego Cortez getting the pin as well, this time over North Starr. As entertaining as the match was (also featuring Asylum and Mr. Jingles), the post-match incident was much more memorable. After getting a safe distance away from Asylum up the entrance ramp, Starr pointed to the JumboTron to show Jimm Red and much of the rest of Project 242 with the person that isn't quite dead yet, revealing it as Asylum's wife, Crystal London! This is a twist that I don't think anyone saw coming, and can only add fuel to the fire at their match at SB2. Also, not only will Alyx Gates and Roxas Knoxx be on hand to keep Project 242 at bay, but now Jimm Red will be there on North Starr's side, rekindling an old business relationship that brought Starr into the XHW.
WHEW AGAIN!
Now let's get to what's going on backstage. In the time leading up to SB2, it's been a flurry of activity.
First off, in a quiet interview with a healing Jakk Levy I found out a real rumor killer for you net heads. Jakk Levy and Jasmine Edmunds are indeed expecting their first child together and have been for some months. The two kept quiet until now about it to make sure everything with baby Edmunds-Levy was healthy. I believe Jasmine is due to give birth in the summer. This comes hot on the bombshell and the "promise," his words, not mine, that Jakk Levy will return at Barely Legal 2008 after his shoulder surgery seemingly months ago.
Now that his X-Core title hopes are officially on hold, Alyx Gates seems to be more and more in Asylum's corner. They been seen together in a few incidents backstage, most recently after the reveal of Crystal London.
Could a new management pairing be in the works? That seems like the case when it comes to Talia Arroyo and Roger Michaels. They were seen talking business before Uncle Roger caught Talia's match at Warzone last week.
It looks like Victor Mason and Kurt Angle are going to finally throw down. They nearly did last week when Angle called out Mason to the ring in front of the XHW fans.
Jimm Red's been awfully busy recently. He was all over the place on Warzone, and he still seemed none-too-pleased afterwards when he talked with Scott Walker. He also took the time to explain himself to some fans after Anarchy, being joined by Johnny Blade.
I don't know if you caught it, but after I posted last week's blog, I caught up with Reinhardt, not too long after his brutal match against Mike Hoss and later on against Dante West. It was a good, interesting chat.
As busy as Jimm Red's been, I think sIMON's outdone him. By my recollection, he's been asking Jacob Widmore for permission, been caught patronizing a couple of Mr. Jingles' crazed fans, and having a brief chat with Mike Hoss. In other incidents, those same crazed fans were spotted hanging out with O.D.B. at a local bar and accosting Asylum backstage at the Stomping Grounds.
Will Cleaven Audrey stick around this time? After an extended absence, he was spotted assuming that Grace Rourke was single... Big mistake to make, my friend.
J.T. Cash sure hates losing. After being defeated by Diego Cortez for a second time, he bumped into Scott Walker in one incident, and then vented to J.B.L. in another. Walker also talked over X-Core aspirations with Daman Arress.
In the days leading up to their main event fracas on Anarchy, Diego Cortez and North Starr exchanged barbs in the Stomping Grounds gym. This one you've gotta see...
Check this out. It's a note explaining how Hendrix Walker's last act as 50% owner of the XHW was to declare the SB2 Main Event a "Loser Leaves XHW" stipulation, adding even more hype to this already heavily anticipated bout.
Reno Drake and Jada took time out of their training schedules to talk over their match against the Sheglins, making sure that they are on the same page. Also last week, Jada was brutally attacked again, this time at home, by the psychopath, Mr. Jingles.
Apparently Mav Harley is out of the hospital and wants me to put an end to the rumors, so here it is: he and Roxas Knoxx... LIKE EACH OTHER. Let that thought blow your mind for a few minutes, and I'll continue. Good. Harley was also seen talking with former potential ally Asylum, wondering just what happened to their plans.
Jakk Levy is being spotted again backstage. He recently ran into Johnny Sniper who was very excited to meet the XHW vet in person.
As is becoming his custom, Wesley Burns has been pretty active backstage. He was spotted just after his promo having a chat with Alyx Gates (who seemed impressed), working out in the gym while being creeped out by Mr. Jingles and his handler, and then again after his debut speaking with Gates once more.
Christian Cage is back, and so are his shenanigans. He now wishes to be called "Sir Christian Cage," and his music is being changed. Read about it here.
BlkOut and Claire Logan were seen discussing their plans for Roxas Knoxx recently... amongst other things...
In Boston for his Hal of Fame induction is a familiar face: Shaun Levy. The man formerly known at Syxx66 was caught chatting with old coworker Dante West about injuries and the SB2 main event.
Boy oh boy does Jay Adams hate getting interrupted for no reason. Alyx Gates found out the hard way what that's all about...
KAPOW!
Now that all that old stuff is out of the way, let's take a look at this weekend's Superbrawl II excitement!
At Xtreme All Access, here's how the card shapes up:
- In the opener, two debuts take place as the quirky Jezter takes on the cowboy, Joseph Wood.
- sIMON gets his chance to step up against some viable competition as he takes on former reality star Cleaven Audrey and X-Core member Alyx Gates.
- After the Anarchy Cup match was scrapped (you'll see why later on), Reno Drake has been placed in a match against newcomer battle royal victor (or should I say "survivor" now) Caden Banks.
- Roxas Knoxx will have her hands full in the aforementioned No Disqualification match against BlkOut.
- Kurt Angle and Victor Mason will ply their trade in a Submission Match as their spat has escalated over Mason's attacks on referees, and then Angle's lack of respect for him.
- In the match that has replaced the Anarchy Cup, a new champion will be crowned. Constructed from the remnants of the now defunct chalice, the Anarchy Championship will be contested between Doc Hammer and Johnny Blade. The new belt will be the lowest ranked in the XHW, but still a prize that will no doubt be hunted.
- To decide the other prize on Anarchy, it will be the long awaited Diego Cortez and Mr. Jingles rematch. After the actions taken by Jingles and his handler in the weeks leading up to this, the intensity has only grown.
- The main event of XAA will be the Tornado Tag Team Championship match pitting four teams against each other. Challenging the seemingly unstoppable Excessive Force will be the DragonGate Clan, the Sheglins, and the Lynch Mob. Will the rift between Joe Riggs and Mike Hoss be fully healed by the time this match rolls around? Only time will tell.
And then, ladies and gentlemen, we have the big show, the King Size show: Superbrawl II. This card is loaded from top to bottom, and I personally cannot wait to see how it plays out.
- In an opener that's had more build up than most companies' main events, Johnny Sniper and Aston Michaels will settle their differences with a No DQ match. This one could get ugly real quick...
- The "Battle of the Sexes" match between Razor Stiletto (Casey Dodge, O.D.B., and Tyler Kiss) and team Diver (Dirk Diver, Billy Coop, and the Iron Sheik) has been brewing almost since Diver arrived on the scene here in the XHW. Don't forget, Max Turner and Diego Cortez will be at ringside for this one. I expect LOTS of hair pulling, if you catch my drift...
- In a match that might as well have "Grudge Match" tattooed on its forehead, Asylum and North Starr will finally go at it, one-on-one, in the unforgiving steel cage. This promises not to end pretty regardless of who walks out of it with their hand raised.
- I'm still curious as to how this is going to happen, but it's on the card either way. Rob Gunn has not been cleared to wrestle, but he's scheduled to go up against J.T. Cash at SB2.
- Even since Full Throttle and the ruining of the "Battle Without Honor or Humanity," Christian Cage has wanted Reinhardt in the ring once again. After repeated attacks, even one on Reinhardt's fiance Sara Foxx, he'll finally get him in a Street Fight.
- With one of the more unique ideas to hit the federation in some time, we'll see the X-Core and Universal Championships decided in a two fall match. The first victor gets the X-Core Championship, the second the Universal. Fighting for the prizes will be Draven Torette (current X-Core Champ), Scott Walker, Turbine (current Universal Champ), and the dream-weaver of this event, Eddie Rourke. Could we see a double champion walk out?
- Two long time standouts in the annals of the federation will be honored when Syxx66 (Shaun Levy) and Sara Foxx get inducted into the XHW Hall of Fame. It's going to be a special moment for both of those two.
- We'll finally (hopefully!) get ourselves an Undisputed Women's Champion after SB2. Cordelia Murphy and Frankie Adams certainly won't have any love lost for each other, and when you throw Grace Rourke into the mix it's bound to get ugly.
- One of the first matches booked for the show, the Undisputed Championship will be decided between three men: Jay Adams, Johnny Diamond, and the current champion, the Japanese Seaman. You couldn't throw three more different men into this match, and I'm interested to see how it all plays out.
- And finally, the main event, the match that everyone is talking about worldwide. It's the Hell in a Cell, Loser Leaves XHW, Special Guest Referee Hogan Cage match between Dante West, Hendrix Walker, and Giovanni Valentino. I don't even have to tell you how big this is, or how it's West's last match in the federation either way. Just sit back, watch, and enjoy!
And I'm spent. Join me after Superbrawl II for a complete rundown of everything that happened! For the XHW, I'm Xavier Synn... Thanks for indulging me!
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