WCW: 1998

Nitro is live from Baltimore Maryland, and it’s is sure to be an explosive night!

The Fallout:​

WCW has a new Champion, and it is Sting! That’s right, folks, Sting overcame Hollywood Hulk Hogan and the rest of the nWo to win the title back for WCW. This was Sting’s first match in over a year, but he showed no ring rust, and forced Hogan to submit to the Scorpion Death Lock. Bret Hart used his referee’s license to ensure the nWo and shady referee Nick Patrick called the match down the middle.

Who’s Next?​

Goldberg continues his impressive string of victories with a win over Steve McMichael last night. Goldberg has to have his sights set on winning a strap! Is Goldberg planning to issue a challenge to Disco Inferno for the Television Title? The only problem there, is that Eric Bischoff has already place Inferno in a match with “Lionheart” Chris Jericho.

Number 1 contender?​

Sting won the belt, but who does he face at Souled Out for the belt? Eric Bischoff and JJ Dillon have an interesting choice to make!

Where’s Kevin Nash?​

Nash was not in the nWo’s corner at Starrcade, but his tag team partner, Scott Hall was. Is there dissention in the ranks? When will Nash re-appear? The Outsiders have limited time to defend the Tag Team titles before they are forced to vacate them.

WCW on top of the world!​

As of last night, WCW has control of every championship except those World Tag Team Titles. Diamond Dallas Page beat Curt Hennig for the U.S. Title, as well as Sting’s victory. Hennig and Page don’t appear to be done though, because Hennig feels cheated out of the belt, and Page is open to a rematch to prove how good he really is.

WCW.com is reporting that a few things are set for tonight’s show:

Want to know who will win? You have got to tune in TONIGHT at 8pm on TNT to find out!

A video is shown, of Sting with half of his facepaint gone. The camera zooms out and shows him holding the WCW Heavyweight Title high in the air. Hollywood Hogan and Eric Bischoff are shown walking backstage, both limping noticeably. “The Balance of Power has shifted” flashes across the screen as stills of the nWo receiving beatdowns at Starrcade are shown. Bret Hart is shown for a split second looking almost coldly at Sting as Sting celebrates his title win.

*Nitro Intro*

*Pyro*

There are balloons and streamers and bells and whistles all over this episode of Nitro!

*Nitro Intro*

The music plays again and Larry Zbyszko comes down the ramp. He gets in the ring, and grabs a mic.

Larry Zbyszko: “First and foremost, I am proud to say, to each and everyone of you. WELCOME to W-C-W Monday Nitro. Not nWo Nitro, not WCW/nWo Nitro. WCW Nitro. Last night, at Starrcade, I proved that if you fight for something good, you will be never be fighting a losing battle. I thank you all for the opportunity to talk to all of you, and I hope you enjoy the show!”

Tony Schiavone: Hello fans, and welcome to WCW Monday Nitro on TNT! We have quite a bit going on this evening, and hopefully we will be addressed by J.J. Dillon regarding the WCW Title. Last night was a great night for WCW, but we are not out of the woods yet. Hogan is demanding a rematch, and Dillon is going to be making a decision on the bout from last night

Mike Tenay: The fans will not be happy if Hogan is given an opportunity to regain that belt here tonight, and there is, of course, still the issue of the finish to last night’s match. Hogan pinned Sting, and Bret Hart came and reversed the decision!

Tony Schiavone: I watched the tape with you earlier, professor, and what did you think of the pin by Hogan on Sting?

Mike Tenay: I have a BAD feeling about what J.J. Dillon is going to say when he comes out here later… I thought it looked like a clean pin to me.

Commercial

First Match: Scott Steiner (with Rick Steiner) vs Booker T (with Stevie Ray) Scott and Booker are fighting for pride here, and it’s a good back and forth. Steiner using his strength and Booker using his agility to each gain the upper hand at different times. Booker went for an axe kick, but Steiner caught him and gave him a leg hooked belly-to-bell suplex. Steiner then locked Booker in the Steiner Recliner. Booker tried and tried to escape as Stevie Ray tried to will him out of the move, but the move was too much and Booker was forced to tap.

After the match, Stevie and Rick enter the ring, and Scott grabs a mic. He says that the nWo only has one belt left in their possession, the Tag Team titles. Scott says that WCW has many deserving teams, but none more than the two in the ring right now. Scott says that Hall and Nash’s time with that title is also coming close to an end.

Tony Schiavone: What a fantastic match, and Steiner is right! The Outsiders will have to face a WCW team at some point in order to keep their tag titles!

Backstage: Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko are sitting in a locker room. They are silent, Malenko is tying his boots and Benoit is taping his wrists. The door opens, and both look up.

Ric Flair: “Woooooooooooo Dean Malenko, wooooooooooo Chris Benoit! Tonight, you two are going to rock the Flock! Woooooooo and guess wooooo what? I’m going to be in your corner! Wooooooo (looks back and forth at the two men)…. Wooooooooo!”

Mike Tenay: It’s the Nature Boy! And it looks like Flair will be in Malenko and Benoit’s corner for tonight’s match!

Tony Schiavone: If I were Raven and the Flock, I would be afraid. Raven likes to fight dirty, but now he’s dealing with the dirtiest player in the game!

Commercial

Second Match: Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko (with Ric Flair) vs Raven and Saturn. Raven sits in his corner, with his back in the ropes, and tells Saturn to take care of it. Raven refuses to move. Malenko and Benoit take turns beating up Saturn, but everytime they make a move towards Raven, Saturn is able to keep them away. Finally Ric Flair gets up on the apron and starts to kick Raven. The Nature Boy goes completely insane, kick Raven. The ref calls for the bell. Flair gets in the ring, and starts to stomp Raven into oblivion. Flair locks on a Figure Four Leg Lock, and Malenko has Saturn in a Texas Cloverleaf. Benoit heads up to the top rope, and hits a headbutt on Raven.

Tony Schiavone: The Nature Boy Ric Flair has lost it. Months of frusteration came out onto Raven right there, and he is hurting, Mike

Mike Tenay: And I tell you what, Benoit and Malenko didn’t look to shabby either. Ric Flair might have something here! Benoit could obviously use all the help he can get to take care of The Flock, and who better than The Man of 1000 Holds and The Nature Boy?

Backstage: Scott Hall and most of the nWo are making their way toward the ring, but missing are Hogan, Bischoff, and Curt Hennig.

Tony Schiavone: Scott Hall is making his way out here? Now?

Mike Tenay: Sure looks that way, but it’s not on any of my rundown sheets?

Tony Schiavone: Well, I guess we will find out in a moment.

*Commercial*

*Ne-Ne-Ne-New World Order*

Scott Hall, Buff Bagwell, Syxx, Vincent, Ray Taylor, Scott Norton, Randy Savage, Konnan, and Rick Rude make their way down the ramp. Hall has a mic, and tells the sound crew to “shut that shit off!” Shit is bleeped out, but everyone knows that Razor said. Hall and the rest get into the ring and Hall starts to talk.

Scott Hall: “Last night, the nWo’s leadership dropped the ball. Hogan, Hennig, Bischoff, all you had to do… was show up. Show up, and get a victory in the bag. You found a way to screw it up. Do you feel it? Hogan, do you feel it? The heat?“

Hall waits a moment for the crowd to realize what he is saying.

Scott Hall: “We had everything rigged, you promised us, there was no chance anything could go wrong. We came into Starrcade with 3 Championships and walked out with 1. WCW won, mang. I hate it. I went home last night, and I called the only guy I knew wouldn’t let me down. I asked him what do we do now? What can the nWo do to move on? Starrcade was a…”

Hall is cut off by “Voodoo Child” Hollywood Hogan, Curt Hennig and Eric Bischoff appear on the stage. Bischoff has the mic, and Easy E, as usual has his smug smirk.

Eric Bischoff: “Scott Hall, I don’t know what you are talking about, but everything is fine. J.J. Dillon is going to take one look at the tape from last night, and the strap will be back around the waist of Hulk, and we’ll be alright!”

Scott Hall: “No way, mang. The nWo is a sinking ship, and this guy is jumping off the ship, and the rest of these guys are coming with me…”

Hall and company exit the ring, and start to make their way out of the ringside area by jumping a barricade into the crowd. Hall turns back towards Hogan, Bischoff and Hennig,

Scott Hall: “Oh and were taking this guy with us!”

A fan sitting right next to where the group exits stands up, and holds his hand high in the air forming a “W” with his hand. He removes his hat and hoodie to reveal that its Kevin Nash! Hogan and Bischoff are livid.

Tony Schiavone: “I think, I’m not entirely sure, that we have just seen the end of the New World Order!”

Mike Tenay: “Even if it isn’t, their numbers are greatly depleted."

Bischoff, Hogan and Hennig are at the top of the ramp, just looking dumbfounded. Bischoff tries to speak, but no words come out. His creation has just fallen apart right in front of him. Easy E finally comes back to his senses.

Eric Bischoff: “Well. Well. Well. I see how it’s going to be. I am still the Vice President of WCW, and I can still make matches, so tonight, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash will be taking on Sting and Bret Hart! For the WCW Tag Team Titles! Think you can ruin me? Ruin us? I have to help decide on a Number One Contender for the Title, Hogan. You’re my man, and hopefully JJ Dillon agrees with me. Curt, you will be taking on Diamond Dallas Page at Souled Out, and you had better win…”

Nitro cuts to a commercial as the camera shows a close-up of Bischoff and Hogan looking livid, and Hennig chewing on his gum nonchalantly.

Tony Schiavone: What a Main Event we have for you all tonight! The Outsiders will take on Sting and Bret Hart for the Tag Team Titles. This will be Hart’s first match in WCW!

Mike Tenay: I don’t know if Sting and Hart will win, but I promise you that Hart is a master technician, and will put on one hell of a match!

Third Match: Chris Jericho vs Disco Inferno for the WCW Television Title. Jericho comes out after Disco and tells him “I am the Ayatollah of Rock and Rolla! Disco is dead, and so is your title reign Disco!”
Jericho runs to the ring, and the two start to brawl, Jericho has the upperhand throughout the match and doesn’t let Disco breathe. Jericho gets Disco on the top rope and hits an enziguri. Jericho then goes for a Lionsault and nails it. Jericho starts to get excited and goes to lock on the Liontamer, but waits too long and Disco rolls him up for the 3 count.

Jericho loses it. He starts to throw stuff at ringside. Jericho grabs a mic and says that he is sick of losing and he won’t be leaving the ring, until he wins a match.
Goldberg’s music hits, and the Beast makes his way to the ring. Goldberg holds his hand out and asks for Jericho’s mic. Jericho, obviously about to crap his pants, hands it over.

Goldberg: “Who’s Next? I’ll tell you who is next… Disco Inferno! I want a title match, Disco you’re next!”

Jericho has been staring at Goldberg, and decides that while Goldberg marches around the ring, now would be a good time to attack. Jericho attacks him from behind and goes hard after Goldberg, but he just can’t overpower him. Disco comes back into the ring, with the title belt, and is about to deck Goldberg with it, but accidentally hits Jericho. Goldberg spears Disco and then Jackhammers Jericho onto Disco. Goldberg’s music blares as he marches back up the ramp.

Backstage: JJ Dillon is making his way toward the ring!

Tony Schiavone: Havoc in the ring, and here comes JJ Dillon, hopefully he can sort out some of this mess!

Mike Tenay: I hope so, because the sooner it’s resolved the better!

*Commercial*

Nitro comes back with JJ Dillon already in the ring. He is holding a few papers, and he is looks stressed.

JJ Dillon: “First, regarding this… whatever just happened in the ring, I see only one way to solve it. At Souled Out, there will be a three way match between Disco Inferno, Chris Jericho, and Goldberg for the WCW Television Title… The World Tag Team Titles will be defended at Souled out, by whoever the champion is after tonight: against the winner of a match between Harlem Heat and the Steiner brothers, next week on Nitro! Now onto why I am really out here (takes a deep breath) ok, look, I hate to do this I really do, but I re-watched the match and can’t allow Sting to be the Champion. Last Night, Hollywood Hogan pinned Sting and despite what Bret Hart says, the match was over at this point. I have no choice in the matter to rule at my own discretion…”

*Hitman in the House*

Bret Hart comes out onto the apron. He is dressed to wrestle, but he has a mic for now.

Bret Hart: "JJ… I think you are missing a big part of what has happened, Hollywood has cheated time and time again to retain that belt, and it was high time for a changing around here. I believe that according to WCW’s official rule book, all decisions are up to the discretion of the referee. In this case, I was the ref, and I made a decision. Sting is the Champ, and that’s final"

JJ Dillon: “You do have a point, but I’m afraid that I have the final say. Before you interrupted me, I was about to say that Sting will remain the champion, but he will be forced to defend the title against Hogan at Souled Out, that match, will be a No Disqualification Match!

*Voodoo Child*

Hollywood storms past Hart, pushing the Hitman out of his way, as he makes his way toward the ring. Hogan is more livid than he was earlier. He tells Dillon that this is despicable. He was screwed. He takes a swing at Dillon, but Hart has made his way down to the ring and grabs the arm of Hogan. Hogan and Hart circle as Dillon escapes the ring. Hart and Hogan go back and forth until Hennig runs in and starts to attack Hart. The two remaining nWo members beat down on Hart. Sting drops down from the rafters, title around his waist and bat in his hand.

Sting chases Hogan and Hennig out of the ring, and the two back down the ramp, directly into Diamond Dallas Page, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash. Page hits Hennig with a Diamond Cutter, and Hall and Nash grab Hogan and drag him back to the ring. Hart and Sting drop the bat outside the ring, and as soon as Hall and Nash enter the ropes, with Hogan, the bell rings.

Fourth Match: Sting and Bret Hart vs Scott Hall and Kevin Nash for the Tag Team Titles.
Nash asks to borrow Sting’s bat, Sting is cautious but drops out of the ring, and rolls it to him, and Nash conks Hogan across the skull with it, and the match begins. Sting starts the match for his team, and despite getting worked the whole match, refuses to tag in Hart. During the match, DDP makes his way back to the ring and stands guard on Hogan. Hall hits the Razor’s Edge and goes for a pin, but Sting kicks out at two. Suddenly DDP disappears from camera view. Hogan has him down on the ground and is beating him viciously. He hops onto the apron near Hart, and drags him down to the floor. The ref missed it. Hart and Hogan are going blow for blow again, but the ref is distracted by Hall and Nash doing a beat down on Sting. Hogan is able to hit a big boot on Hart, and he gets back on the apron. Sting finally makes his way out of the Nash and Hall corner and comes toward his corner for a tag, but only finds Hogan, who nails him directly in the forehead with a hard punch. The bell rings.

Hogan full-fledged attacks Sting, Hart comes into the ring and gets a beat down by Hall and Nash. Hogan goes to raise Nash and Hall’s hands but the Outsider’s pull away. The Outsiders grab their belts and exit the ring. Hogan just looks at them in disbelief.

Tony Schiavone: Son of a Bitch! I knew Hall and Nash wouldn’t leave Hogan behind!

Mike Tenay: I don’t know Tony, it doesn’t look like things are so great in nWo land still, and I think Nash and Hall still have to decide where their loyalty lies

Tony Schiavone: Then why did they attack Bret Hart? The nWo is alive and well, Professor, alive and well! Son of a Bitch!

Nitro goes off the air, with Sting, Hart and DDP all out around the ring area, and Hogan standing tall, staring at the Outsiders.

Hello Folks!

Last week, The Nature Boy returned from injury and decided to be in the corner of Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko as they took on Raven and Saturn. Flair lost his temper and attacked Raven during the match, and declared that The Flock was in trouble. What is next for The Nature Boy, The Man of 1000 Holds, and the Canadian Crippler?

Last week, The Outsiders declared that they were no longer members of the n.W.o., but their actions in the main event would suggest otherwise. They made it appear as though they were helping Sting and Bret Hart, but ended up taking down Bret Hart, and seemingly saving Hollywood Hogan from a beat down. The Outsiders didn't celebrate with Hogan, though, and things still looked tense as Nitro went off the air.

This match is tentatively set, but Bret Hart has some information regarding the WCW Title Match at Starrcade, and will share it with JJ Dillon and the rest of the fans tonight!

To find out, Tune in to WCW Nitro, on TNT!
Confirmed Matches:

ProWrestlingInsider.com said:

WCW making move on formed WWF Star?
It is not confirmed, but former WWF Tag Team Champion, and Hart Foundation member, Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart has been in talks with WCW regarding a contract. Neidhart has been treated terribly by the WWF since the "Montreal Screwjob" and was humiliated by Degenration X in his most recent appearance on Raw, and is reportedly requesting his release to come join Hart in WCW.
More details to become available in the coming days

Click to expand...

*Nitro Intro*

*Pyro*

Ric Flair is in the house!
Tony Schiavone: Ladies and Gentleman, I apologize that we can’t properly introduce the show tonight. Ric Flair came down to the ring during our opening theme and is soaking up a massive applause from the audience here in Atlanta Georgia!

Flair is wearing a suit, and for the first time in a long time, sunglasses.

Ric Flair: “Ladies and Gentlemen, woooooooooooo!”

This opening statement was all he needed to say to send the crowd into frenzy. Georgia is, and always will be Flair country, with Flair’s ties to Georgia Championship Wrestling and the Jim Crockett Promotions.

Ric Flair: “I have to say…. That will NEVER get old. Wooooooooo! I have a major announcement, and I was supposed to come out a little later, but I wooooooo am wooooo just woooooooo so damned excited…. Wooooooooo!”

Mike Tenay: “I was wondering when the Nature Boy was going to do this!”

Tony Schiavone: “Do what?”

Ric Flair: “I have been sitting back, watching Chris Benoit struggle in his battle against Raven, and his Flock. Last week, I decided to stick my nose in Raven’s business. I found out quite a bit about Raven in a short amount of time. Raven, I’m talking to you now. You’re sick. You feed of off people’s hopes and dreams and you channel it into your own personal gain. That’s why I am here. Raven you're RUINING the young talent here in WCW.”

Tony Schiavone: Raven, of course leading a sinister group, known as the Flock. I just wonder what does Ric Flair care?

Mike Tenay: We all should care, Tony!

Ric Flair: “I was at home last Sunday watching Starrcade, and I saw Raven make his lackey, Saturn do his dirty work. I say that’s crap. I’m no Saint, but I always do my own dirty work, but I always have a little help. I talked to Chris and Dean, and decided that when it comes to what it takes to help WCW get back to the level it needs, we got to go back to our roots. When I think about roots…”

Flair holds his hand into the air, four fingers held high.

Ric Flair: “I think about the Four Horsemen!”

*Charge*

The Horsemen’s music fills the now scorching arena. Benoit and Malenko come onto the stage, also wearing suits. The come to the ring, and stand beside Flair.

Ric Flair: “I know, I know, I know… its not 4. But there is another on the way! And I’m issuing a challenge Raven. Your Flock against My Forsemen! At Soulded Out! Woooooooooo. And when we’re done with you, Raven, woooooooo, you are going to regret the day you messed with Chris Benoit.”

The Four Horsemen’s theme hits the P.A. again, and the three exit the ring.

Tony Schiavone: What an announcement! The Horsemen want to face the Flock at Souled Out!

Mike Tenay: I just can’t believe that the Horsemen are back, but regardless, it looks funny not having Arn Anderson around.

*Commercial*

Match One: Chris Jericho vs Goldberg. Goldberg got attacked by Jericho last week, and gets a shot at revenge here. Jericho is quite a bit faster and more agile than anyone Goldberg has faced to date. These two, and Disco Inferno will face off in a match, at Souled Out for the Television Title. Goldberg finally grabs Jericho by his hair, and is tossing the Lionheart all over the ring. Jericho is able to come off the ropes and hit a cross body, but Goldberg is up quicker than he is. Goldberg goes for the spear, but Jericho uses his athleticism to jump over him an goes for a roll up, but Goldberg doesn’t allow the ref to even start a count. Jericho goes out of the ring to collect himself, but Goldberg follows, and the Beast gets his hands on Jericho and starts to punch his lights out. Jericho is rolled back into the ring, and Goldberg goes to pin him. Jericho is able to get ahold of his leg, and goes for the Liontamer, but Goldberg is just too large. Jericho is freaking out. He can’t sit still, and his hesitation allows Goldberg back to his feet, and Goldberg goes for a second spear. Superkick!

Even Jericho is shocked it worked. Goldberg took it right off the chin and falls to the ground on his back. Jericho looks around, like he just stole all the candy in the store. He goes for the ropes and hits a Lionsault. Jericho is going to end Goldberg’s streak. 1…..2……
NO! Goldberg kicked out. Jericho throws a tantrum. He is screaming at the ref. “Faster! Faster! Faster! Three count junior!” He turns into a massive spear, that seemed to move the ring. A Jackhammer ends his misery, but Jericho has proven he isn’t a cruiserweight anymore, he is the real deal!

Tony Schiavone: Despite what you might think about Jericho, he just showed that he is exceptionally talented in the ring. He was millimeters away from ending the streak.

Mike Tenay: That may be true, but Jericho still has to be able to keep his emotions in check if he is ever going to win the Television title, especially with Goldberg breathing down Disco Inferno’s neck!

Jericho again starts to tear up ringside, hitting the posts with a chair, and throwing the ring mats around. He is screaming at the ref, and saying he can beat Goldberg. Schiavone notes that Goldberg has already left the ringside area, or else Jericho might not be so vocal.

*Commercial*

Second Match: Scott Steiner and Ric Steiner vs Harlem Heat (Booker T and Stevie Ray) for the number One Contendership of the WCW Tag Team Titles. Harlem Heat dominates the early part of the match, but Booker T does the heavy lifting. Stevie Ray hasn’t been on TV for a while, and doesn’t have the stamina for the match. Booker and Stevie make a lot of quick tags, keeping Scott isolated. Ric is pacing back and forth, but the Dog Face Gremlin will have to wait. Booker and Scott exchange blows, and end up in the center of the ring. Booker kicks him in the stomach and goes for the Axe Kick, but Steiner catches his leg, and locks on an Ankle Lock submission. Booker screams in pain. Scott tags in Ric, who is chomping at the bit to get into the ring. Ric knocks Stevie off the apron and turns around right into a leg lariat by Booker. Booker goes to his corner but Stevie was knocked to the floor. Booker and Ric go round and round for a minute. Scott, still gassed, goes to one knee on the apron.

Booker gets Ric into a wrist lock and goes for the tag. Stevie comes in, and puts Ric off the ropes, and hits a spinebuster. He tags Booker, who goes up-top for a diving elbow. Stevie, exiting the ring, accidentally bumps the rope, sending Booker over Ric, and right into Scott, who has entered the ring. Scott hits a Belly-to-Belly Suplex, and then lifts Booker onto his shoulders. Ric heads to the top rope. Stevie charges across the ring, and takes Booker, Scott, and himself over the top rope, and the force of the move sent Ric to the floor, aswell. The ref starts the count. The two teams exchange blows, and the refs count has reached 8. Scott Steiner quickly rolls into the ring, and the ref’s count reaches 10.

Tony Schiavone: I’m not sure what we just saw there….

Ring Announcer: “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am being told that this match has ended in a double countout!”

Scott and Ric lose it. They beat down Harlem Heat and go after the ref, who explains that Scott was not the legal man, so his entering the ring didn’t break the count, therefor it is a tie.

Mike Tenay: Well what does this mean for the Tag Titles match at Souled Out?

Tony Schiavone: I don’t know, Professor, but Scott and Ric are livid! WCW Monday Nitro will be right back!

*Commercial*

Backstage: Raven, Kidman, and Saturn are coming to the ring!

*WCW Souled Out Commercial*
“An Ordinary Man” (a picture of Surfer Sting is shown)

“Who does extraordinary things” (clips of Sting vs Rick Rude, Sting vs Ric Flair, Sting vs Vader are shown)

“Pushed to the brink, by an evil” (nWo clips)

“forced into the shadows” (Crow Sting is shown in the rafters)

“only to re-emerge to defeat evil, he is no longer ordinary, and he is here to defeat all those who have SOULED…OUT”

(Shots of Sting winning the title, and hitting people with bats are flashed across the screen)

*WCW Souled Out. Sunday January 24th, 1998. Live, and only on PPV!*

Click to expand...

The Flock Responds:

Raven enters the ring, Kidman and Saturn in tail. Stevie Richards has been M.I.A. for a few weeks, mention the announce team.

Raven: “Ric Flair and Four Horseman do not scare me. I am not the problem, I am a solution. The issue springing up around WCW is lack of direction and that is what I provide. Direction, in exchange for protection. Now, I am not afraid of anyone, but some people don’t like to play fair. Chris Benoit, for example, likes to make sure that the odds are in his favor before he attacks. Tell you what Ric. You want a match at Souled out… fine! You can have it. You get four, I got four. You put one of ours in the hospital, we put one in the morgue. Quote the Raven, nevermore.”

The fans’ caught the subtle shot at The Horsemen’s catchphrase and boo. Raven slumps into the corner and the bell rings, Kidman has a match!

Tony Schiavone: Kidman will be taking on Eddy Guerrero, and it will be a non-title match.

Mike Tenay: Well, since Raven won’t leave the ring, how could we possibly have a Title Match!?

Third Match: Billy Kidman vs Eddy Guerrero is barely underway, when Raven, still in the corner declares this a “Raven’s Rules” match. Guerrero goes insane. He says that’s not fair, Raven isn’t in charge. The lights in the Arena go out, and when they come back on, Mortis is standing directly behind Eddy. Mortis lifts Guerrero high over his head in a Gorilla Press Slam and drops him onto his chest. Saturn puts Eddy into a armbreaker, as Kidman heads to the toprope. Kidman hits the seven year itch, and the terrified referee counts to three.

Tony Schiavone: Well I assume that Mortis will be the Fourth Member of the Flock at Souled Out, who will the Horsemen choose?!

Mike Tenay: Well they have 19 days to figure it out, Tony. I hope they find someone who can even the score, because this Mortis is a monster!

The Flock beats down Eddy, while Raven just watches on. Benoit, Malenko and Flair make their way to the ring, and clear house. Flair looks concerned looking at Mortis.. The Horsemen may be in trouble.

*Commercial*

*Bang!*

Diamond Dallas Page is coming to the ring, holding the United States title. He has a mic, and something to say.

DDP: “Yo, it’s me. It’s me. It’s me. It’s D…D…P… Curt Hennig tried to cheat at Starrcade to keep this gold. He tried everything. He failed. I ain’t claiming to be no master technician, but I would like to think I *perfectly* executed that Diamond Cutter to win that match, and the one on the ramp last week, was another thing of beauty. Back to business though, Curt Hennig and Hollywood Hogan took me out last week, and I am not down with that. I don’t know what Hall and Nash are up to either, but guys, it don’t look good. You leave the nWo and then do THAT? What did Bret Hart do to deserve that? Tell ya what. I’m all about second chances, so why don’t you guys come on out and explain yourselves?”

DDP looks up the ramp, but no one comes. He starts to pace the ring, this apparently is no good to the United States champion.

*Ne-Ne-Ne-New World Order*

Tony Schiavone: I told you, Professor! The Outsiders are still members of the nWo! Those bastards are out to destroy WCW still.

Mike Tenay: That is NOT the Outsiders!

Curt Hennig appears on the entrance ramp.

Curt Hennig: “Well, well, well. Diamond Dallas Page wants to see if his friends are with him or against him. Let me remind you, that it was YOU who turned your back on them! You were the one who decided that you weren’t nWo, you were all about you. Look”

Hennig shows a clip on the TurnerTron from January 13, 1997, when DDP accepts an nWo shirt, and then Diamond Cuts Scott Hall and dumped Kevin Nash to the floor.

Curt Hennig: “See Page. You don’t want the Outsiders, and the nWo, needs them. Back to business, at Souled Out, You and I will be back in that ring, and trying to win that title. MY title!”

DDP: “Ha! Hennig, you don’t even know what you’re saying. The WCW has all but eliminated the nWo and while it’s true that you NEED the Outsiders, but Scott Hall and Kevin Nash will do what’s best for them, and that is get off the sinking ship.”

Curt Hennig: “You have no idea Page. The nWo is as strong as ever…. Remember ‘once you’re N.W.O. You’re N.W.O. for lifeeeeeee”

New World Order blares through the arena again, and Hennig disappears leaving Page in the ring to debate what he was just told. Page looks directly at the camera, and seems to have some amount of concern.

DDP: “Nash, you and I go way back, bro. I’ve managed you, and I’ve wrestled you, and I respect you and Scott. You need to make a decision here, and make it the right decision, get off the sinking ship.”

Page drops the mic and exits the ring, while his music hits. Page looks almost defeated as he stumbles to the ring area and Nitro cuts to the backstage area.

Backstage, Eric Bischoff is shown talking to J.J. Dillon. Hogan is in the background, listening intently.

Bischoff: “J.J., you and I haven’t always seen eye-to-eye, but I agree that Sting and Hogan needs to happen at Souled Out, in a No-DQ match. What I don’t understand is why Sting is holding the title belt, and not Hollywood? Hogan was the Champ, and Sting STOLE the belt!”

JJ Dillon: “Eric, the truth is, Sting didn’t cheat, and he didn’t steal. He brought the title belt back to WCW and Bret Hart was right….. (pause for the crowd to pop at Hart’s name) Hogan cheated time and time again to reta-“

Dillon is cut off by Hogan, who is becoming incensed.

Hogan: “Dillon, I am the biggest superstar in wrestling history, brother. They were flocking to see me up north, and they flock to see me down here. I am your biggest star! I can beat anyone, anyone, just name him, I’ll give him the beat down, brother.”

Dillon: “Eric, if it is alright with you, I would like to make a match for tonight.”

Bischoff is clearly concerned with this, but looks toward Hogan, who nods his head in approval. Hogan KNOWS he can beat anyone, well he used to, but without his usual N.W.O. cohorts, it might be tricky, but he’s Hulk Hogan for crying out loud.

Bischoff: “I don’t, uh, see any problem with that”

Dillon: “Good! Tonight, you, Hollywood Hogan will be taking on Bret “The Hitman” Hart! One-on-One.”

Hogan and Bischoff turn to leave, but Dillon quickly stops them.

Dillon: “Oh and Hogan…. If you lose, you lose the title match at Souled Out”

*Commerical*

Fourth Match: Randy Savage (with Elizabeth) vs Lex Luger. This is Savage’s first match since leaving the n.W.o. and he is wearing his more traditional ring gear, as opposed to black and white n.W.o. gear. Luger dominates the match, and continually looks towards Elizabeth while Savage attempts to recover on the mat. Savage can see what is going on, but the Total Package doesn’t allow him back into the bout. Luger gets Savage into the Torture Rack, but Savage squirms out. He slides down Luger’s back and locks in a headlock. Luger is starting to pass out rather quickly. Elizabeth gets up on the apron, and looks on in concern. The ref is trying to check Savage’s elbow to see if Macho Man has a choke hold locked on, but Savage turns everytime the ref gets close enough to see. Elizabeth realizes what is going on and starts to yell at Savage, Savage scowls back at Elizabeth, as Luger finally passes out and Savage releases the choke hold. The ref calls for the bell, and Savage is the winner, but the ref is trying to get a word with Macho Man to remind him about the difference between Chokes and Sleepers. Elizabeth enters the ring and checks on Luger. Savage is distracted by the ref momentarily, but once he sees what is happening, he loses it.

Savage grabs Elizabeth by the arm, and drags her away from Luger. Luger has made his way to his knees, and is gasping for air. He looks down the ramp, almost longingly at Elizabeth. Savage is pointing at Luger and telling him that he is going to KICK HIS ASS!

Backstage: Bret Hart is watching the “pin” by Hogan on Sting at Starrcade, the camera turns to show Hart as he rewinds and plays the clip over and over. Finally he raises an eyebrow. It appears the Hitman has found something!

*Commercial*

*Hitman in the House*

Bret Hart comes to the ring, wearing his ring gear. The Excellence of Execution soaks up the cheers from the crowd, he looks proud of himself as he almost forgets to take off his glasses and give them to a kid in the front row. He hops back onto the apron and into the ring. The crowd is searing now as Hitman’s every move.

Bret Hart: “So I was in the back watching tape of my opponent tonight, Hollywood Hogan. I watched Hogan and Sting’s match from two weeks ago, and something popped up that I didn’t notice before. Sting KICKED out of Hogan’s leg drop. That and the fact that Hogan had a fist full of the Stinger’s tights says that Sting is the rightful champion. JJ Dillon, I made the right call! Watch the footage of the ending of Starrcade!:

Everyone in the crow looks toward the Turner Tron.

*Ne-Ne-New World Order*

Hogan storms down the ramp and into the ring, Hennig and Bischoff at his side.

Hollywood Hogan: “Listen, brother. I don’t care who you are, or what you think you are doing, but I am going to kick your ass!”

The crowd gives a little bit of heat to Hogan, but don’t really want to boo.

Bret Hart: “Hogan, you’ve been too afraid to face me until now. You knew that I was the hungrier one, the one with something to prove. Now, you’re the one with everything to prove, and I’m proven. I promise you this Hogan, if we do face off tonight, I am still as hungry as ever. I am the Best There Is, There Best There Was, and the Best There Ever Will Be!”

The crowd goes wild at Hart decimating Hogan on the mic. Hogan stands there, mic upto his lips, but no words come out. He finally starts to speak, but something cuts him off.

*Nitro Theme*

The Nitro Theme song comes on the P.A. system and brings out WCW Commissioner JJ Dillon. Dillon has a big smile on his face. Apparently, he has good news.

JJ Dillon: “I tell ya what. WCW is getting better and better every day. I just got off the phone with Mister Ted Turner, and he informed me that WCW is headed in the right direction, and he is determined to keep it that way. Turner told me to tell EVERYONE that starting with January 25th 1998 WCW Nitro will be three hours long!”

The crowd starts to applaud the announcement, but the 4 in the ring are all tense. Dillon didn’t come out NOW, just to say that… did he?

JJ Dillon: “Now to you in the ring… I just re-watched the ending from Starrcade, and… Bret Hart, you were right. Mister Hogan did grab the tights of Sting, and despite this, Sting kicked out just before the 3 count. This means that Hogan isn’t obligated a rematch. He must earn one!”

Hogan is now pointing at Hart in the ring, Hart just made Hogan’s life a lot more difficult, and with their match next, Hogan will be as focused as ever.

JJ Dillon: “So we have a dilemma. Who is the Number One Contender to Sting’s World Heavyweight Championship? I think that can be best settled with a match, that I already set. Bret Hart vs Hollywood Hulk Hogan. The winner faces Sting at Souled Out.”

Bischoff snatches the mic from Hogan’s hands and tries to plead his case.

Bischoff: “Dillon, I’m still the Vice President here, and I am ordering you that this match will not be happening. It can’t, Hollywood hasn’t had enough time to prepare. This is an ambush!”

As the word “Ambush” comes out of Bischoff’s mouth, Sting drops down from the rafters. He nails Hennig in the back with his bat, and tosses Bischoff over the top rope. This leaves Hogan, Hart, and Sting alone in the ring. Sting nods at Hart and drops to the floor. The bell rings, and a ref sprints down the ramp into the ring.

Match Five: Bret Hart vs Hollywood Hulk Hogan for the Number One Contendership to the WCW World Heavyweight Title. The two have a feeling out period, where both are afraid of losing an edge early. Sting is on the outside the ring, watching intently. Hogan and Hart finally get deep into the match, Hogan pummeling Hart into a corner. Hart finally blocks one and punches his way into the middle of the ring. Hogan throws a wild haymaker, which Hart ducks and is able to hit a belly-to-back suplex on Hogan. Hart goes for a pin, but Hogan kicks out at one. Hart holds the upper hand for a few minutes, and is able to hit a patented forearm smash on Hogan’s skull. Hogan is slow to get up, when Hart hits a basement dropkick and pulls Hogan to his feet. Hart is going for the Piledriver, when Hogan is able to dump Hart over his back and onto the mat. Hart is gasping for air, holding his side and trying to breathe. He appears to have the wind knocked out of him. Hogan goes for the Leg Drop, but Hart sees it all the way and rolls to the floor. Sting helps Hart to his feet, but Hart is disoriented and strikes Sting with enough force to send the Champion back two steps. The ref is paying attention to Sting and Hart, and doesn’t see Hogan pull the brass knuckles out of his trunks. Sting and Hart have a tense moment,, but Hart extends his hand to Sting. Sting shakes his head no, and a clearly upset Hart rolls back into the ring, and right into a tough right hand from Hogan. Hogan looks ecstatic as Hart falls to the mat. Sting looks enraged and steps onto the apron. The ref stops Sting from entering the ring, but can’t make the count on Hogan’s pin. Hogan stands up and goes to deck Sting. Hart stumbles to his feet and runs full steam ahead at Hogan and ends up drilling Hogan into the ref and Sting. Sting falls to the ground, Hogan bends over, and the ref falls to the mat. Hart nails a pile driver on Hogan and locks on the Sharpshooter. Hogan is taping feverishly, but the ref is out. Sting gets into the ring, and tries to help the ref to his feet. The ref looks to see Sting standing with Bret Hart and Hogan out on the mat, and calls for the bell.
Hogan is declared the winner by disqualification.

There is mass confusion as Nitro goes off the air.

Mike Tenay: “I.. don’t even know what to say”

Tony Schiavone: “Professor, it appears that Hogan was beat, and found a way to squeak out another victory… even if it wasn’t the most clear cut win, Hogan will face Sting at Souled Out! That is all for tonight Folks, remember to join us every Monday at 8 here on TNT!”

WCW Monday Nitro Preview:

Last week, Hulk Hogan earned a shot at Sting, after losing his rematch initially. Hogan beat Bret Hart by DQ for the Number One Contendership. Sting interfered in the match, costing Hart a title match, even though it was inadvertent. Bret Hart has requested a tag match between himself and Hogan, with each having a partner of their choosing. It will be interesting to see what happens next in this triangle of Superstars!

The Outsiders continue to toe the line between WCW and n.W.o., but at some point they will have to chose. Last week, DDP begged his former friends to pledge allegiance to WCW but the Outsiders didn't show up. Will this be the week they declare?

Chris Jericho, Goldberg and Disco Inferno will meet for the Television title at Souled Out. Jericho almost ended Goldberg's undefeated streak last week, but Goldberg muscled his way to a win, now it will be Disco Inferno's chance to earn a victory when he takes on "Das Wunderkind" Alex Wright.

The Four Horsemen are still 1 short, and will be looking for someone to match Raven's flock adding Mortis! Who will Ric Flair find?

Confirmed Matches:
Alex Wright vs Disco Inferno
Curt Hennig vs Buff Bagwell
Bret Hart and ??? vs Hollywood Hogan and ???

*Recap of last Nitro, Hogan defeats Hart for Number One Contendership*

*Pyro*

Tony Schiavone: Hello Folks, and welcome to WCW Monday Nitro! I am Tony Schiavone, sitting alongside “The Professor, Mike Tenay, and Mike, last week we saw Hollywood Hogan defeat Bret Hart to earn a match with Sting at Souled out for the World Title, who has the upperhand?

Mike Tenay: That’s a good question, but I think the more important question is will J.J. Dillon go back and reverse THIS decision, as recently it seems the head honchos in WCW aren’t as afraid of the n.W.o. and have helped keep the strap off Hogan

Tony Schiavone: And what becomes of the WCW Tag Team Titles match at Souled Out? Last week, The Steiners and Harlem Heat match resulted in a Double Countout, but that issue will have to wait, our first match is now!

Match One: Juventud Guerrera vs Billy Kidman vs Psychosis vs Rey Mysterio. This match is announced as a Number One Contender’s Match, but since it is WCW it is only assumed that it is for the Cruiserweight Title because the other belts are all accounted for at Souled Out. This is a good back and forth match, with lots a spots and ends with Kidman and Mysterio alone in the ring. Kidman gets Mysterio down, and goes for the Seven Year Itch but Mysterio moves. He heads uptop himself and nails a hurricanrana into a leg hooked pin, but Kidman kicks out. Psychosis and Guerrera come over the top rope looking for identical planchas on Kidman and Mysterio, but are met with dropkicks and both go for the pin, Kidman on Psychosis and Mysterio on Juvy. The ref counts to three, and lifts both Kidman and Rey’s hands in the air. Kidman and Rey don’t notice the other’s hand being raised, until the announcement is made, and the two turn toward each other. Kidman lunges at Mysterio and the two brawl to the floor. Raven and Saturn come out from the back, Mortis following close behind. The four Flock members start to beat down Rey.

*Charge*

The Horsemen’s classic theme blares through the arena, as Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko and Ric Flair fly down the ramp and even the odds against the Flock. Raven and Benoit end up in the ring, as Flair and Malenko keep Saturn and Mortis at bay. Benoit delivers a picture perfect German Suplex and stands over Raven. The Horsemen retreat to the stage area with Rey Mysterio alongside them. Flair holds four fingers high in the air, and Malenko and Benoit follow suit. Rey stands awkwardly off to the side, with his hands on his hips. The Horsemen got the last laugh, but Rey Mysterio Jr. and Billy Kidman still have to settle who the Number One Contender for the Cruiserweight Title is!


Backstage: Eric Bischoff, Hollywood Hogan and Curt Hennig arrive outside. Hogan is yelling into the limo for someone to hurry up and get out. Bischoff tells Hogan that their special guest will appear when he is needed, and now is not the time. The three men make their way inside.

*Commerical*


J.J. Dillon comes down the ramp and into the ring. He already has his mic.

J.J. Dillon: “Well, Folks… I have some news. Next week on Nitro, Kidman and Rey Mysterio will square off to decide the true Number One Contender for the Cruiserweight title. The Flock is banned from ringside, and they will abide by that order, or Kidman will automatically be disqualified.”

The crowd doesn’t really seem to care…

J.J. Dillon: “Now onto the Tag Team Titles… Last week, the match was declared a double count out and no winner was decided between the Steiners and Harlem Heat. So next week on Nitro, those two teams will square off in a Tornado Tag Match!!!”

This gets a much better response from the crowd.

J.J. Dillon: “Now… Hollywood Hulk Hogan, I gave you and opportunity to prove that you were worthy of a Title match with Sting at Souled out… and you proved that you aren’t worthy of anything. You cheated to beat Bret Hart and you SCREWED Bret Hart out of a title match. Hogan, you have disrespected the company for the last time. Bret Hart has requested a match against you and a partner of your choosing. His partner… hehe (Dillon isn’t very good at this giggling thing) will be a Mystery, until the match.”

*Voodoo Child*

Hogan comes out on the ramp, mic in hand. He is scratching his beard. He looks confident.

Hollywood Hogan: “Dillon, I see that Curt Hennig already has a match tonight, and my brother in the back isn’t ready to compete yet, so I’ll have to find someone to help me beat down on Bret Hart… Listen, J.J. Hollywood didn’t become a 10 time world Champion by not being the best, and I’ve proved time and time again that I’m the best. I pinned Hart in that ring, I’m the Number One Contender.”

Dillon stands with his arms crossed, he isn’t going to just forget that it was Brass Knuckles that knocked out Hart and not Hogan.

Dillon: “So you think that using a foreign object is ok?”

Hogan is about to answer, he has the mic raised, mouth open, when;

*One Crazed Anarchist*

Chris Jericho just interrupted Hollywood Hulk Hogan. The Lionheart doesn’t seem to care, as he blasts past Hogan and down the ramp. He pauses halfway down the ramp and poses for the crowd and blows obviously sarcastic kisses toward the crowd. Jericho enters the ring, and grabs Dillon’s mic.

Chris Jericho: “Jo-Jo! You forgot my match at Souled Ou….”

Jericho looks back up the ramp and sees a stunned Hogan staring at him. Jericho isn’t as skilled on the mic as he is now, but he is still pretty clever.

Chris Jericho: “Oh…. I probably should have checked before I interrupted, but you seemed to have forgotten that I have an UNFAIR match against Disco Inferno AND Goldberg for the T.V. Title at Souled Out. Why do I have to beat two men?”

Hogan is now severely agitated. He is scowling at the obviously egotistical Jericho. Jericho peers back down the ramp at Hogan, confused by Hogan’s look.

Chris Jericho: “Hey… Ho-Ho! I know you’re a big star and all, but the Future of wrestling is trying to talk business. So, if you don’t mind”

Hogan laughs, it’s not clear if he is laughing in storyline or if he is corpsing, but Hogan stops pretty quickly and lifts the mic to speak.

Hogan: “Brother, I like you. You just came down here and told it like it is. I am a BIG STAR, and you ARE the future. You know what Dillon, brother.. Tonight, it’s going to be Chris Jericho and Hollywood Hulk Hogan against Bret Hart and whatever scrub he can find, and I promise you, brother. Jerichoholics and Hulkamaniacs will be running wild all over Florida!”

Jericho just grins from ear to ear. He pats Dillon on the chest, and exits the ring, obviously excited about this opportunity. He didn’t even get to make his point, but I suppose it doesn’t matter, Jericho is in the Main Event on NITRO!

Dillon picks up the mic and has one more thing to say…

J.J. Dillon: “Hogan, I never got a chance to tell you. At Souled Out, you will be in the title match… it will be Sting….vs Hollywood Hogan… vs Bret Hart! For the WCW World Heavyweight title!”

Hogan’s big grin as he and Jericho stood on the ramp has disappeared, and Jericho suddenly slips away from Hogan, as Hogan stares at Dillon.

*Commercial*

Ric Flair is shown backstage, walking toward a locker room. He pokes his head in and says something inaudible. He then steps back, fixes his hair and adjusts his tie. The door opens again and out steps Buff Bagwell. Flair pulls Bagwell in close and he starts to make his case.

Ric Flair: “Listen, Buff. You and I have never been on the same side before, but I think you are what my team will need at Souled Out to take on The Flock.”

Buff looks oddly at Flair. Flair and Buff’s former n.W.o. cohorts were mortal enemies, but Bagwell and Flair have never really had issues personally, its always been business. Bagwell looks at the floor momentarily before looking back at Flair.

Buff Bagwell: “Ric.. it would be an honor for me to be a part of the Horsemen!”

Flair’s head perks up and his eyes open as wide as possible. He starts to shake his head.

Ric Flair: “whoa whoa whoa there Buff. Before we EVER get to that point, I need you to prove your worth to the Horsemen, and frankly right now, I don’t know what side you are on. Are you still n.W.o.? or are you WCW?”

Bagwell isn’t pleased with this. Bagwell puts his hands on his hips and looks into Ric’s face. Flair just basically told Buff that he wants him to kiss ass and tell him what he wants to hear, and Ric will let him get a chance, but Buff needs more than that.

Buff: “Ric.. How long have you known me? I make mistakes but I always own up to them, and I know that the n.W.o. did a lot to hurt you and your family, but I want you to know that I am truly sorry and lets move forward from this.”

Ric stares at Buff. He doesn’t know what to do. He wasn’t prepared for Buff to apologize, and the memories of the n.W.o. terrorizing him seem to overwhelm the Nature Boy. Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko come up behind Ric. Benoit puts his hand on Flair’s shoulder.

Chris Benoit: “Look, Buff, we need help. We need someone to help us kick Raven and the Flock’s ass, and there is no one better that you. The time is now, we have to prove ourselves. The Horsemen are on the rise, and we could use a guy like you in our corner.”

Buff nods as the camera fades.

Second Match: Disco Inferno vs Alex Wright. This is a glorified squash, as Disco just dominates. The T.V. Champion doesn’t let Alex Wright breath and finishes off “Das Wunderkind” with a diving elbow drop. Disco looks unbeatable, but at Souled Out he will be taking on Goldberg and Chris Jericho with his title on the line.

After the match, Disco helps up Wright, and shakes his hand. Disco then encourages Wright to dance to his music. Berlyn he is not, as Wright boogies with Disco as we cut to a….

*Commercial*

Third Match: Rick Steiner (with Scott Steiner) vs Stevie Ray (with Booker T). Basically this is just a warm up for the teams next week, and Steiner dominates. Scott eventually takes down Booker from behind, and Stevie comes to help his brother. The Steniers give Stevie a beatdown and leave Harlem Heat smashed near the announcer’s table. Scott and Rick scowl at the booing crowd, as the announcer announces Stevie Ray the victor via Disqualification. The Steiners don’t care about the outcome, but they got the upperhand in the tag team match next week as Harlem Heat now are forced to recover from a beatdown.

Backstage: Kevin Nash and Scott Hall are standing around a T.V. watching their potential opponents for Souled Out have a match. They aren’t taking either very seriously, laughing at both teams and saying that they have this in the bag.

*Commercial*

Back in the ring, DDP’s music hits, bringing out the United States Champion. Page looks focused. His “friends” the Outsiders made him look like a fool last week, and left him high and dry to be verbally assaulted by Curt Hennig. Page doesn’t want to mess around tonight, he enters the ring quickly and grabs a mic.

Page: “No time for catchphrases tonight, I want answers. I’m the United States Champion. I beat Curt Hennig at Starrcade, fair and square. I should be held in some kind of high regard by the other wrestlers back there…”

Page pauses. The crowd doesn’t know whether to boo or cheer Page, who almost sounds like he is turning heel.

Page: “but instead, I am left high and dry by Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, who don’t even give me an answer. The WCW needs to know, JJ Dillon needs to know. Hell, Kev, I need to know. We used to be bros. We traveled together for years before you went up north. I was the FIRST guy to call you when you won that Heavyweight Title. Then you came to WCW and destroyed the company from within. Now, I stand here in the ring and you don’t even have the common decency to tell me where you stand. If your with WCW, I’m in your corner. If you’re n.W.o. I promise you this. I will be beating the living *shit* out of you each and every chance I get.”

The crowd slowly built to a roar during a heartfelt promo by Page, and Page then turns toward the announce table, and then back up the ramp.

Page: “well, one more thing. I haven’t wrestled in THREEEEE weeks, and this guy wants some action. Anyone in the back who wants to come out and challenge me…. “
The crowd seers in anticipation. Page has given anyone in the back a chance to pin the U.S. Champ, will anyone accept
.
*Hoooooooowwwwlllll*

An unfamiliar music fills the arena, Page looks confusedly at the entrance ramp. Scott Hall and Kevin Nash appear, wearing red shirts. Hall has on a red bandana, and is doing his “flying routine” across the stage. The crowd eats up this new entrance, and Nash smiles widely at the crowd.

Nash: “Well, Page. You and I go way back. Great! Now If you could please explain to me why you refused my offer to join me in the n.W.o. I could maybe understand why I owe you anything. (Page just shrugs at Nash) See, for the past 18 months, the n.W.o. was where the action was, where the top dogs ran. Now, the so called top dogs of the n.W.o. can’t even win rigged matches. So I decided to run with my own pack… THE WOLFPACK! AHWHOOOOOOO”

It’s clear that the fan’s don’t understand Nash. Did he just say he was with WCW?

Nash: “I hate to tell you all, but WCW, I’m still not… too many bad memories, but the Wolfpack is the future! We can start fresh, and not mess up the way that Hogan and Bischoff did. I’m giving you one chance DDP… Join the Wolfpack, and help US bring down the n.W.o. and WCW”

Page looks toward the crowd and seems to ask what they want. The crowd isn’t chanting, but roaring at Page.

Page: “Bro, I’m WCW through and through. This company gave me a chance, and I am staying true to these guys.”

Nash: “well… Then I guess I accept your challenge.”

Page: “Challenge? What Challenge?”

Nash: “You left an open challenge for anyone in the back. I was back there, and now I’m going to kick your ass.”

Fourth Match: Diamond Dallas Page vs Kevin Nash (with Scott Hall). Page tries to speed bag Nash as “Big Sexy” rolls into the ring, but Nash is a massive man, and powers his way out of Page’s clutches. Nash attempts a quick powerbomb, but Page is able to spin though the arms of Nash, and lands facing Nash face-to-face. Page hits a Diamond Cutter. Page pins Nash, but Scott Hall pulls the ref from the ring and attacks DDP. Hall hits the Razor’s Edge, and then Nash lands a big elbow drop. The ref comes back to his knees and is calling for the bell, but he isn’t visible to the time keeper. Hall drops down to the floor and rips the stripes off the ref, and puts them on. He rolls into ring and counts the “pin” on Page. Hall then calls for the bell.

Big Sexy and Hall exit the ring, and walk up the ramp to their new music, holding their hands high in the air making “W”s with their fingers. The Outsiders just made their presence known.

*commercial*

Fifth Match: Curt Hennig vs Buff Bagwell. Bagwell looks focused as he makes his entrance. Going against a former n.W.o. running mate seems to be a little much for Bagwell. Hennig takes the whole match to Bagwell. Buff can only land a few right hands as Hennig hits kicks and punches with precision and force, left and right. Hennig irishwhips Bagwell into a corner, and sets Buff onto the top rope, and goes for a Superplex. Bagwell realizes what is going on and punches Hennig in the head, and shoves him to the mat. Buff stands up on the top rope and calls for the Buff Blockbuster. Hennig is confused as he gets to his feet, and turns to find Buff. Bagwell leaps off the top rope and goes for his finisher, but as he catches Hennig’s neck, Hennig catches Bagwells head and the two crash to the mat. Hennig stands up, still holding Bagwell’s head under his arm. He lifts Bagwell for a suplex, and rolls through for a pin. Bagwell is resilient and kicks out, but Hennig doesn’t panic. He stands Buff up, and hits a Hennigplex for a pin.

After the match, Hennig starts to kick Bagwell and pushes him out of the ring. Hennig then poses in the ring, as we cut backstage.

Backstage: Ric Flair, Dean Malenko and Chris Benoit watch the match on T.V. and are not happy with the result. Bagwell might not be their man.

*Commercial*


The main event match is now, and Hitman’s partner still hasn’t been revealed. As the fans are shown a video package reviewing the match the week before between Hogan and Hart, Mike Tenay and Tony Schiavone discuss the upcoming match.

Tony Schiavone: Professor, I am wondering, are you thinking the same thing that I am?

No Tony, Mike Tenay has intellectual things to think about….

Mike Tenay: Tony, I think that Bret Hart might have helped WCW snatch up another one of WWF’s former stars to be his tag team partner tonight!

Tony Schiavone: We can only guess as to the identity of Hart’s partner this evening, but one would get the feeling that Bret Hart doesn’t have many friends in what is surely still a foreign locker room.

We’re about to find out.

*One Crazed Anarchist*

Chris Jericho makes his second entrance of the evening. This time Jericho looks (acts) like a massive star. He holds his hands out to his side and drops his head as he gets to the apron, and enters the ring to what is a huge pop for the “Lionheart”. Jericho soaks up the cheers, as his partner makes his way out.

*Voodoo Child*

Hollywood Hogan comes out, with Eric Bischoff, to a mixed bag. The fans love Hogan, but he is such an evil guy now they want to hate him. Hogan soaks up the crowd reaction as Bischoff bows down to the immortal.

Hogan and Jericho talk in the ring, and seem to be discussing strategy. Wouldn’t it have been smart to talk about this before the match?

*Hitman in the House*

Bret Hart comes onto the entrance ramp and looks out to the roaring crowd. In the ring, Hogan starts to look toward the rafters. Is Sting the tag team partner? Uh oh…

*Invasion*

The crowd erupts at Goldberg’s music. The Beast makes his way to the ring, blowing smoke and oozing intensity. Goldberg gets to the ringside area, and he and Hart begin to circle the ring.


Sixth Match: Hollywood Hogan and Chris Jericho vs Bret Hart and Goldberg. Jericho and Hart start this match, and put on a clinic of reversals and chain moves. Jericho ends up with Hart in a wrist lock, and goes to tag in Hogan. The two double team Hart in the corner, and Jericho goes back to the apron. Hogan delivers some massive right hands to Hart and goes for a bodyslam, but Hitman hooks the leg. Hart is able to deliver his own body slam, and slowly makes his way to his corner and tags in Goldberg. Goldberg sprints into the ring and goes for clothesline to Hollywood, but the immortal one ducks and Goldberg goes into Jericho’s corner. “Lionheart” kicks Goldberg in the back of the head, and the Beast goes down to one knee. Hogan kicks him in the ribcage and then tags in Jericho. Jericho goes off the far ropes and hits a basement dropkick on Goldberg. Jericho then grabs the legs of the Beast and attempts the Liontamer. Goldberg gets turned over, but he is too large for Jericho to actually lock the move on properly and tosses Lionheart across the ring. Goldberg kips up and goes for a tag to Hart. Hart comes in and hits a few suplexes on Jericho and goes for an elbow to the face. Jericho moves, and Hitman makes awkward contact with the mat.

Hart clutches his knee, and it appears the Hitman has injured himself. Jericho is able to tag in Hogan, but Hart can’t make it to Goldberg, who is jumping up and down on the ring apron. Hogan stands Hart up and starts to punch away at him. Hogan does a scoop slam, and drops an elbow to the midsection. He quickly tags back in Jericho, who goes up top, and hits Hart with a drop kick. Jericho puts one foot on Hart and flexes. The ref starts to count, but only gets to 2 before a kick out. Jericho stomps Hart a few times and does a standing senton. Jericho stands back up and goes for the flexing, one legged pin again. Hart is able to grab Jericho’s leg and turns him into a Sharpshooter!
Jericho writhes in pain, as Hogan enters the ring, only to suffer a massive spear. Goldberg then pushes Hogan to the floor and watches Hart wrench Jericho into tapping.

Jericho rolls to the floor and looks at Hogan in disgust. Jericho starts to throw things at ringside and scream that it’s NOT FAIR!!! Jericho starts to wreck the announce table, and pushes Schiavone and Tenay as they back away from the table. He turns around and is face-to-face with Goldberg. Goldberg screams that Jericho is next, and grabs a handful of his hair. Hogan comes up behind the Beast and hits him with a chair. Sting emerges from the crowd holding his signature bat and hits Hogan and Jericho and points at Hart. The camera shakes and a massive figure appears from behind the camera man. It's the Giant! The Giant starts to dismantle Sting, and Hart, and then looks toward Goldberg. Goldberg enters the ring, at a slow, methodical pace. The Giant is obviously Hogan, Hennig and Bischoff's trump card, and their special guest for the evening! The two circle the ring as the announcers get their mics back on and declare that Nitro is OUT OF TIME! The camera fades on a scene of Goldberg and the Giant staring eachother down.

WCW Nitro Preview!

Nitro will be live, Monday at 8pm on TNT, from the Superdome in New Orleans.

Last week's carry over:
Goldberg and The Giant were beating eachother to a bloody pulp after Nitro went off the air last week. Tonight, the two apparently want a match, but JJ Dillon won't be at the show, so will Eric Bischoff allow it?

Bret Hart wants some of the n.W.o.:
Bret Hart wants to challenge Curt Hennig to a match, will the Perfect One respond just 6 days before Souled Out?

Tag Team Number One Contenders decided yet?
After weeks of stalling, there will finally be a match between the Steiners and Harlem Heat to see who will face the Outsiders at Souled Out. Who will emerge victorious?

Wolfpack-ed?
Kevin Nash and Scott Hall are starting a new stable, will they be adding any new members? Is DDP an option after seeing how much influence the "pack" has?

Confirmed Matches:

Tony Schiavone: Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for joining us, just like you do every other week. WCW is live and here on TNT! Last week, we saw the return of a Giant, the announcement of the World Title Match at Souled Out, and it ended with an explosive bang.

Mike Tenay: That’s right, Tony, but as we all know despite Goldberg and Giant beating each other to bloody pulps after Nitro went off the air, they are both here tonight!

Tony Schiavone: And from what I understand, Professor, they want a one-on-one match, TONIGHT on WCW Monday Nitro!

Mike Tenay: Well Tony, right now we have what is supposed to be a one on one match, but I am sure that The Flock will make sure it is not.

First Match: Eddy Guerrero vs Saturn (with The Flock) Raven slouches into his usual spot in the corner, while Mortis and Kidman stand on the apron. Saturn and Guerrero circle, but Eddy repeatedly darts past Saturn into the empty corners to avoid a beat down by the Flock. Saturn catches Guerrero’s arm and does an arm drag followed by an elbow drop. Saturn then gives boots to Eddy’s midsection. Saturn then looks to Raven for approval, but receives a rollup from Guerrero. Saturn kicks out at 2, but Raven shakes his head at his minion in disgust. Guerrero gets the match in his favor with a drop kick and a few big knee drops to Saturn’s skull. Eddy heads up to the top rope after a picture perfect suplex and goes for the Frog Splash. Guerrero looks down at Raven, Kidman and Mortis with a look of utter fear. Guerrero sheepishly dives out for the Frog Splash, but misses when Saturn rolls out of the way. Saturn backs into his corner to recover with his Flock mates. Raven pushes Saturn into the center of the ring, and tells him not to rest. Saturn is pleading with Raven. Guerrero hits a double knee back breaker on Saturn and goes for the pin. The referee reaches two before Kidman comes off the top rope seemingly out of nowhere, crushing Eddy and Saturn.

*Charge*

As the Flock again beats down Guerrero, The Horsemen sprint to the ring to save him. Benoit is in ring gear, but his two stable mates are in dress shirts and pants. Benoit grabs a handful of Raven’s hair and pulls him off Eddy. Benoit hits a snap suplex, but as he lands Mortis hits a splash onto the Canadian Crippler. Flair and Malenko battle to the floor with Kidman and Saturn, and Guerrero is knocked out in the center of the ring. The Flock takes advantage of their numbers and beat down The Horsemen.

*Buff Daddy*

Buff Bagwell explodes down the ramp and starts to take Flock members down left and right. The Horsemen can only stare in disbelief as Bagwell hits a double Buff Blockbuster on Saturn and Kidman. Bagwell struts and flexes as the Flock flees the ring.

*COMMERCIAL*​

Gene Okerlund is standing by with Curt Hennig, and the Former United States Champion is his normal nonchalant self. Okerlund starts to speak but Hennig cuts him off.

Curt Hennig: Don’t care Gene, I really don’t. I only have one thing to say, and that is Diamond Dallas Page will be in a world of hurt come Sunday. At Souled Out, I am going to tear you apart limb from limb, and then I will pin you, 1, 2, 3. Page, I am perfection. I am the best technical wrestler in the world, and I have beaten them all. You’re talented Page, but if you take your eyes off the prize for one second, Curt Hennig will snatch it from you. At Souled Out, The U.S. Title will be mine again.

Gene just looks at the camera awkwardly as Hennig spits his gum high into the air and smacks it toward the camera.

“Mean” Gene Okerlund: Well, Tony and Mike, you heard it here. Curt Hennig doesn’t think DDP has a chance this Sunday at Souled Out. I guess only time will tell.

Back in the arena, Tony and Mike play up Hennig being a jerk. The participants for the next match enter the arena while Tony babbles incoherently.

Second Match: “The Total Package” Lex Luger vs Steven Regal. Regal carries Luger through the match, and plays the heel role well. Regal dominates the early parts of the bout, and eventually gets the business end of a clothesline from Luger. Luger psyches himself up and starts to punch away at Regal. Luger throws Regal off the ropes and delivers a beautiful scoop slam. Luger then flexes toward the crowd. Miss Elizabeth emerges from the back and stands on the apron. She just watches Luger. Luger picks up Regal and again scoop slams the Englishman. Luger then flexes towards Elizabeth, who blushes at the attention given to her by Luger. Luger lifts Regal up for the Torture Rack, and is parading him around the ring. Regal refuses to tap, and the ref calls for the bell via TKO.

Luger sets down Regal and calls for Liz to come to the ring. Liz looks awkwardly behind her and then toward the crowd, like she is scanning for “Macho Man” Randy Savage. She apparently decides that the coast is clear and strolls toward the ringside area. She reaches the apron and looks lovingly at Luger. Luger takes a step toward her, when suddenly he is drilled from behind. It’s Randy Savage! The “Macho Man” is beating Luger with a lead pipe. He then sets the pipe on Luger’s chest and spins around in the ring, waving his hands at the crowd. Elizabeth tries to check on Luger, but Savage cuts her off, grabs her by the arm and drags her from the ring as medical personnel tend to Luger.

Backstage: “Mean” Gene is back, this time to interview “Lionheart” Chris Jericho.

Gene Okerlund: “Chris Jericho, I am going to ask you the question everyone wants to know. Do y-“

Chris Jericho: “Why yes, Gene, I do condition. That’s why my hair is so gorgeous and golden! But to why I am really here, This Sunday I will be beating down Disco Inferno for the Television Title. Goldberg isn’t even a concern to me. I am the Future of Professional Wrestling, and the most athletic SUPERSTAR in WCW history!”

Gene Okerlund: “but what about Goldberg? This is a three way dance, Mister Jericho!”

Chris Jericho: “Mister? You really are getting senile. Did some of your brain matter escape when all your hair fell out? Or did it erode from lack of protection on top of that dome? Goldberg isn’t even a concern... I will walk out of Souled Out; the Television Champion!”

Gene Okerlund: “Now you listen to me, Jericho! I am sick o-“

Jericho is clearly agitated by Okerlund’s frustration. Okerlund has been interrupted so many times, he can’t even properly do his job, but Jericho doesn’t seem to care.

Chris Jericho: “uh… no, I will not listen”

Jericho holds a hand up to Gene’s face, telling him to shut up and simply walks out of the frame, leaving Okerlund fuming.


Back from commercial, and Mike and Tony hype the upcoming Cruiserweight Match for the Number One Contendership of the Cruiserweight Title.

Third Match: Kidman vs Rey Mysterio jr. This is easily the match of the night. Kidman starts out in control, using his slight size advantage to overpower Rey. Mysterio attempts a Hurricanrana, but is caught by Kidman. Kidman powerbombs Mysterio and goes for a quick pin, but a kick out at 2. Rey is able to roll to the floor and tries to regain his breath. Kidman hurries to the ropes and dives down to the floor. Both competitors are down on the floor. The ref starts a count, and Kidman and Rey brawl near the announce table. Kidman bounces Rey’s head off the announce table and goes to smash his skull into the ring post. Rey throws himself to the floor to avoid Kidman’s assault. Rey then hits a drop toe hold and slides into the ring. The refs count reaches 8, as Kidman gets up unto the apron and breaks the plane of the ropes. The ref stops his count and Kidman drops down to the floor again. Kidman circles the ring, looking for a place to enter uncontested. Rey is blocking his entrance well, so Kidman has to fight his way in, or lose his chance at Championship Gold. Rey and Kidman trade punches, each staggering their opponent more than the last. Kidman and Rey both nail hay makers. Kidman drops Rey, and looks like he is going to take control, but the punch took his last ounce of strength and he collapses onto Rey. The ref starts a count, but Rey kicks out at 2 and ½. Kidman gathers enough power to climb to the top rope, and is preparing for the Seven Year Itch. He leaps high into the air, and comes down hard onto Rey, but Mysterio is too close to the ropes and gets his foot onto the rope to break the count. Kidman argues momentarily with the referee over the result, but this is enough time for Rey to get to his feet. Rey comes off the ropes and catches Kidman from behind with a bulldog. Mysterio goes for the pin, but Kidman kicks out at 1, and the two men begin to exchange blows again. Rey ducks a wild haymaker by Kidman and delivers a basement dropkick to the knee of Kidman. Rey then hits a leg drop bulldog. Mysterio is out of gas, and gets to his feet and climbs to the top rope. Mysterio looks uneasy as he stands on the top rope, and awaits Kidman to stand. Kidman gets up and turns around into a cross body by Mysterio, but the two roll into a pin. Kidman is on top, but Mysterio hooks the leg and head and rolls into a pin of his own. The two trade quick reversals, neither gaining more than a 1 count. Kidman releases Mysterio and the two hop up quickly. Mysterio comes off the ropes and is drilled by a Kidman clothesline. Kidman locks on a sleeper hold and the two slowly make their way to the mat. Rey is all the way down, struggling to stay awake. The referee lifts Rey’s arm into the air and lets go. Rey’s hand hits the mat. The referee repeats the process, and again Rey’s hand slams to the mat. One more time, Rey’s hand is lifted into the air, and at the last second Rey holds his hand up. He fights his way to his feet, and wraps his arms, over his head, around the head of Kidman and delivers a cutter. Kidman releases sleeper. Rey stands Kidman up, and nails him with punches to the midsection, and eventually tosses Kidman into the corner. Rey gets Billy to the top rope and delivers a Hurricanrana to the center of the ring, and then goes to the apron, hops the ropes and lands a springboard leg drop. Rey Mysterio pins Billy Kidman, and finally there is no kick out.

Tony Schiavone: What a match we just saw, Professor! Rey Mysterio just won the Number One Contendership from Billy Kidman, and will face Eddy Guerrero at Souled Out!

Mike Tenay: That match was a match of the year candidate, Tony! Kidman, despite his affiliation with the Flock, is an incredible competitor.

Tony Schiavone: But I think Raven is happy that Kidman didn’t win because The Flock will need all their members to take on the Horsemen at Souled Out!

Mike Tenay: Especially with the earlier dissention between Raven and Saturn.


Backstage, Kevin Nash and Scott Hall are making their way to the ring!

Third Match: The Steiner Brothers vs Harlem Heat for the Number One Contendership of the Tag Team Titles. Shortly after this match starts, The Outsiders come down to the ringside area, and pull up chairs. The Tag Team Champs mock their opponents. In the ring, Scott Steiner and Booker T do the bulk of the work in the ring, neither team really gaining a big upper hand. Harlem Heat finally isolates Scott, and it appears that Harlem Heat has the upper hand, until Kevin Nash enters the ring. He delivers a big boot to the face of Booker T. Scott Hall drags Stevie Ray down to the floor, and Steiners join in beating down Harlem Heat.

The Outsiders and The Steiners are apparently all on the same team, as the Wolfpack “Howl” goes off and the four men raise their hands to the sky.

Tony Schiavone: Well, it looks like Kevin Nash’s Wolfpack just gained two new members!

Mike Tenay: Apparently being a part of this group was more important to the Steiner Brothers than winning a Championship.

Tony Schiavone: So, I can only assume that Kevin Nash has some big plans for this. God help us.

Backstage: Eric Bischoff and Hulk Hogan are sitting in an office.

Eric Bischoff: Well, Hollywood, JJ Dillon isn’t here tonight… So I get to run the show. Doing a pretty good job, so far, I must say.

Hollywood Hogan: Yeah, sure E. Hey, E… are we worried about Big Kev and Scott? They seem to have a lot of momentum…

Eric Bischoff: Hogan, you have to worry about Sting and Bret Hart, forget the Outsiders. The Outsiders aren’t even on the n.W.o.’s radar.

Hollywood Hogan: Listen, Brother. I have the World Title Match in the bag at Souled Out. Don’t worry about that. You just have to make sure all the precautions are in place to keep The “Wolfpack” out of my hair.

Bischoff looks concerned, but doesn’t want Hogan to know he doesn’t have a plan. Goldberg barges into the office.

Goldberg: I hear you’re in charge, Bischoff. I want the Giant. Give me the Giant!

Bischoff is snapped out of his worried stare, and focuses on the task at hand.

Eric Bischoff: Bill, you want Giant… He is all yours, but do me a favor, yeah?

Goldberg turns his head sideways and stares intently at Hogan and Bischoff. He could clearly rip off both their heads, and his intensity just oozes out of every inch of him.

Eric Bischoff: Don’t kill the poor guy, we will need him at Souled Out.

Goldberg: I make no promises.

With that, Goldberg breezes out the door.

Eric Bischoff: Well, Hollywood, looks like you and I will have to make a promise for him. We’re going ringside for the Main Event tonight.

and Nitro fades to….

*COMMERCIAL*​

Back from commercial, and Ric Flair, Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko are talking with Buff Bagwell. Ric Flair looks as excited as can be.

Ric Flair: Wooooooooooo The Horsemen, riding high! We’ve got some of the greatest wrestlers in the world right now woooooooooo right here!!!

Buff Bagwell: I can’t even begin to thank you for the opportunity to help you guys. The Horsemen are wrestling history, and Ric Flair, you are a legend!

Ric Flair: Buff Daddy! Wooooooo You and The Rabid Wolverine and the Iceman are going to give the Flock an ass kicking!

Chris Benoit: All I need is for you guys to clear the way, and Raven’s ass is mine.

Ric Flair: Chris Benoit! Wooooooooo you got it!

We cut back to the ring area, as Tony and Mike discuss the card for Souled Out.


*Hitman in the House*

Bret Hart makes his way to the ring. The Hitman looks focused, and the crowd is rabid for the Excellence of Execution. Hart grabs a mic.

Bret Hart: I really don’t have much to say. I think most of you know that I do my talking in this ring, and I will face anyone, anywhere, anytime. That is why I am issuing a challenge. Curt Hennig, Sunday at Souled Out I am going to beat your n.W.o. buddy, Hollywood Hogan. Tonight, I am going to beat you. So come on down, if you’re man enough.

*One Crazed Anarchist*

Curt Hennig isn’t the one coming out, it’s Chris Jericho!

Chris Jericho: Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime you say? How about Bret “The Hitman” Hart vs “Lionheart” Chris Jericho, in a battle of Amazing Canadians? Better yet, we should tag, no?

Bret Hart: Jericho, you are an amazing talent, and I would love to wrestle you in front of this crowd, right here in New Orleans Louisiana!

Chris Jericho: Cheap pop, from the “best there eve blah blah blah”? Weak sauce Hart. Are we doing this or not? Get a ref out here!”

Fourth Match: Chris Jericho vs Bret Hart. Jericho receives a hip toss as he enters the ring, and Hart kicks away at Jericho’s ribs. Hart picks Lionheart up by his hair and gives him a suplex. Jericho rolls to the floor and backs down the entrance ramp. The ref counts towards ten as Jericho looks back at Hart and smiles. Jericho is talking trash, even though Hart dominated the 25 seconds he was in the ring. Jericho slowly walks back toward the ring and circles. Hart cuts off every turn for Jericho and the Lionheart gets frustrated. Jericho tells the ref to make Hart allow him into the ring. Jericho enters, and Hart sarcastically waves him into the center. The two test the other’s strength. Jericho ends up with his hands contorted, almost as much as his face. Hart takes Jericho to his knees and delivers a stiff shot to the chest. Hart poses toward the crowd. Jericho grabs Hart by the ankles and tries to dump him onto his back but Hart is just too strong for Jericho. The Lionheart quickly rolls to the apron and onto the floor for a second time. This time Hart doesn’t want to mess around and follows Jericho to the floor. Jericho sprints at Hart and delivers a dropkick and kicks Hart as he is down on the ground. Jericho steps on Hart’s abdomen and flexes. The referee’s count has reached 7 as Jericho makes his way back into the ring. Hart slowly gets up and is clearly dazed. He slides into the ring at 9 3/4. Jericho again starts to lose his cool. He yells at the referee and says that he protests the outcome! Hart slowly walks up behind the Lionheart and taps him on the shoulder. Jericho tells him that he is busy, and goes back to arguing with the Referee. Hart taps harder, and Jericho turns to shout at Hart, but receives a massive right hand, a kick to the midsection and a piledriver. Hart locks Jericho into the Sharpshooter, and Jericho argues with the ref as he checks on him. ‘’I should have won!” he screams as he furiously taps.

Jericho gets to his knees and continues to yell at the referee as Hart’s music fills the arena, and we cut to a


Tony Schiavone: Ladies and Gentleman, this has been one of the greatest nights in WCW Monday Nitro history! Kidman and Rey Mysterio tore the house down, Bret Hart taught that punk, Chris Jericho a lesson, and now we have what is sure to be an explosive main event!

Mike Tenay: Surely, by the end of the night, either Goldberg or The Giant will be left a mangled mess.

Tony Schiavone: Or better yet, what if BOTH men, destroy eachother? Mean Gene? I understand you are backstage with one of the participants.

Backstage: Gene is all by himself, and he looks pissed.

Gene Okerlund: Fella’s don’t even come to me, I can’t get an interview in with anyone! Every question I ask, I get interrupted. I swear, I don’t need this job! I am longtime, close personal friends, with EVERYONE! Why am I stuck here interviewing wrestlers? Who the heck cares if Chris Jericho conditions? I surely don’t!

Tony Schiavone: Looks like Gene isn’t quite doing his job…

Gene Okerlund: Shove it, Schiavone!

Mike Tenay: Guys, guys, guys… its time!

*Voodoo Child*

Hollywood Hogan enters to a chorus of boos. Eric Bischoff follows him, and bows down to the immortal as he flexes to the searing crowd. Bischoff comes down and sits at the announce table, and puts on a headset, while Hogan stands near the table and watches the ring intently.

*Chokeslam*

The Giant enters first, and he has a gash on his forehead. Hogan comes and shakes his hand as he enters the ring. Hogan walks toward the entrance ramp, and stops randomly, looks down and picks up one of the lights. He slowly walks, light in his hand, toward the entrance.

*Invasion*

Goldberg’s music hits, and the crowd erupts. Hogan is waiting for Goldberg and he is apparently going to clock him with this light. The Giant looks intently. Suddenly the music stops. The ring bell sounds, and there is a loud thud. The camera was focused on Hogan as the thud occurred and he turns around to be face-to-face with Sting. The camera shows Goldberg is in the ring, having speared The Giant, and Hogan turns to run to the backstage area. He turns, directly into Bret Hart, who wags a finger at Hogan. Hogan turns around and is nailed in the gut with a bat shot from Sting. Hart and Sting stare intently at each other, Sting nods slowly, and turns his back on Hart to watch Goldberg in action.

Fifth Match: Goldberg vs The Giant. The Giant is already on the mat, and Goldberg picks him up slowly and scoop slams the 500 lb monster. He comes off the ropes and delivers an awkward elbow to Giant, who rolls out of the way. The elbow of Goldberg smashes to the mat, and Giant hops up quickly and attacks. Goldberg can’t escape the open hand slaps of Giant, but he seems to shrug off every one of them as quickly as they happen. Goldberg finally catches one of Giant’s hands and is able to wrap him in a Bear hug. Goldberg slightly lifts Giant and drives him onto his back. Goldberg delivers some massive rights to Giant’s already gashed head, and the blood begins to pour. Goldberg stands the Giant back up and goes for a second spear, but Giant sidestepped it. Giant goes for a Chokeslam, and nails it. Goldberg shakes as he makes impact, as if he were in spasm. Giant starts to go for a pin, but decides that he needs to make a point. He stands the Beast up and delivers a second Chokeslam. Still unsatisfied, Giant stands Goldberg up, and lifts him high in the air for a third Chokeslam, but Goldberg slides off Giants arm and ends up behind him. He wraps his arms around Giant’s waist and delivers a German Suplex. Goldberg rolls through to his feet, and stalks Giant. He waits for him to stand and delivers a massive spear. Goldberg doesn’t mess around and goes for a pin, but Giant kicks out at 2. Goldberg sees only one way out of this. He goes for the Jackhammer. He gets the Giant up, but the weight seems to be too much, and Goldberg struggles. He can’t turn the 500lb monster over, and The Giant falls directly on top of Goldberg. The ref starts a pin count, and Goldberg furiously tosses Giant off of him. He stands up and growls loudly. The crowd oohs and ahs, and the camera show that Hart and Sting have started to brawl on the entrance ramp. Chris Jericho and Disco Inferno both come out of the back and attack Goldberg. The two rivals save the Giant from the Beast.

Goldberg can’t fight off three men, and Bischoff sells that the n.W.o. will regain the TV, US and World titles at Souled out. Hennig will beat DDP, Hogan will beat Sting and Hart, because they can’t avoid beating each other up, and Jericho will beat Disco and Goldberg.
Jericho and Giant finish beating down Goldberg, and Jericho decides he doesn’t need Disco Inferno anymore and feeds him to the Giant for a Chokeslam.

Nitro goes off the air, with Goldberg slowly getting to his feet, while Hart and Sting destroy each other all over the arena as Hogan, Jericho, and the Giant smile at the havoc they caused

Souled Out Preview​

Tomorrow night is WCW's first pay-per-view of the year, and with the rumors being posted, there could be a few issues on the horizon.

ProWrestlingInsider.com said:

Scott Hall no shows two house shows.
Seems Razor Ramon has fallen off the wagon. Hall was scheduled to appear at house shows in Ohio Wednesday and Friday night, preparing for the Tag Team Titles match against Harlem Heat at Souled Out. Kevin Nash was apparently distressed over the outcome of their match, and now it appears that the result has changed.
WCW added the Steiners to the Wolfpack as it became apparent that Hall was not reliable as a wrestler on a day to day basis. It remains to be seen what will become of Hall, as his whereabouts are still unknown.

Click to expand...

Eric Bischoff discusses the Souled Out card on Talk Wrestling Radio this week
Vice President of WCW, Eric Bischoff talked with TWR Friday afternoon, and discussed the Bret Hart signing, calling it "a big step for WCW." Bischoff also discussed potential layoffs. "There will be roster cuts, production cuts, but it will all be trimming of fat. There is alot of untapped resources, just sitting around not providing anything to our product. We are also looking at a way to add the money necessary to move forward with a secondary program. Thunder is still a big possibility, but it would require a better allocation of resources. We have done a great job of fixing our issues, and expect an announcement sometime next week regarding our roster, programming, and production crew."

Card is finalized!
Despite the Scott Hall debacle, WCW has announced the official card, following Friday night's show in Englewood, Ohio.

The Flock (Raven, Saturn, Kidman, Mortis) vs The Four Horsemen (Buff Bagwell, Ric Flair, Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko)

"The Total Package" Lex Luger vs "Macho Man" Randy Savage (with Miss Elizabeth)

WCW Cruiserweight Championship:
Eddie Guerrero (c) vs Rey Mysterio jr,

WCW United States Championship:
Diamond Dallas Page (c) vs "Perfect" Curt Hennig

WCW Tag Team Championship:
The Outsiders (Kevin Nash and Scott Hall*) (c) vs Harlem Heat (Stevie Ray and Booker T)

WCW Television Championship:
Disco Inferno (c) vs "Lionheart" Chris Jericho vs Goldberg

WCW World Heavyweight Championship:
Sting (c) vs "Hollywood" Hogan vs Bret "The Hitman" Hart
​

*-If Hall is still m.i.a., either Scott or Rick Steiner will take his place.

*Pyro*

Tony Schiavone: Well folks, tonight is the night! WCW’s landscape will surely change after this evening!

Mike Tenay: We have 8 explosive matches coming your way, fans. WCW is the best wrestling promotion in the world, and tonight WCW will prove why.

“The Total Package’’ Lex Luger vs “Macho Man’’ Randy Savage (with Elizabeth).
Savage is filled with rage as the bell rings, and he starts with kicks and punches to the midsection of Lex. Luger doubles over in pain, and is kicked harder with his every attempt to get back to an upright position. Savage grabs a handful of Luger’s hair and bounces his head off the turnbuckle. Savage starts to punch away at the head of Luger. Luger blocks one big, wild haymaker and tries to punch back but Savage gives a quick shoulder block to Lex, and backs away from Luger, leaving The Total Package standing in the corner. Savage takes a 5 step run at Luger and crushes him into the corner. Luger collapses to the mat, and lays motionless face first on the mat.

Miss Elizabeth is slapping her hands on the mat, but it is not clear if she is cheering on her longtime husband, Randy Savage or Lex Luger. Savage yells for her to shut up as he puts his knee into Lugers back and cups his hands under the chin of Lex. Luger stretches his leg toward the ropes, but he is just out of reach. Liz continues to clap her hands together and shout words of encouragement. Macho Man snaps at her again, telling her to shut her trap! Luger is groaning in awkward pain, and he is having a hard time breathing. Savage stands up slightly and slams his knee hard into Lugers back, and the Lex Express screams in pain. Elizabeth stands on the apron and calls for Savage. Savage stands, and faces Liz. Savage yells at Miss Elizabeth, saying that he will deal with her when he is done with Luger. Luger stands up slowly, and tries to regain his senses. Savage comes at him hard and Luger ducks. Macho Man comes off the ropes and Lex is able to deliver a stiff elbow to the chest of Savage. Luger falls to his knees and tries to find a way to gain the upper hand. Luger, still from his knees, punches at the head and chest of Savage. Luger doesn’t want to let Savage to his feet, and the Macho Man is rolling violently, looking for an opening. Luger gets to his feet, and delivers a quick elbow to Savage, who writhes in pain. Luger looks toward Liz for approval, but this proves fatal as Savage hurries to his knees and delivers a low blow to Luger. Savage stands up, holding his abdomen. He spits on Luger and tells him to stay the hell away from his wife.

Savage drops down to the floor and grabs a chair. He hops back into the ring. The ref is checking on Luger, who is claiming the low blow. Savage waves his hands to the crowd, egging on a mixed reaction. Savage holds the chair high over his head and is about to come down onto Luger, when Liz grabs the chair and yanks it from her husband. The ref hears the argument between Elizabeth and Savage and turns to see Elizabeth holding the chair. The now on his knees Luger looks on in confusion as Savage disappears from the foray in the ring. Luger pleads with Liz, asking why she has the chair… is she trying to screw him? The ref warns her of a disqualification. Suddenly, Liz closes her eyes and flinches. There is a loud, metallic thud and Luger hits the ground. Savage stands over Luger, chair in hand, and points at The Total Package. Savage holds the chair to Luger’s throat and begins to choke him with the back of it.

Elizabeth enters the ring, chair still in hand. Savage calls for her to smack Luger in his chest and head. She holds the chair high in the air. Luger gasps feverishly. Elizabeth closes her eyes and swings as hard as she can, whacking Savage right in the back of the skull. Savage hits his face on the legs of the chair and collapses next to Luger. Liz looks at both men, and slowly backs out of the ring. What have I done?

Backstage: Hollywood Hogan is interviewed by Mean Gene Okerlund.

Mean Gene: Hollywood Hogan, you are in a match tonight, for the World Title. What will be your strategy against Bret “Hitman” Hart and WCW Champion, Sting.

Hogan: Well, Mean Gene, I’m going to let those two beat each other up, and then I’ll pick up the pieces. I’m smart, I’m an icon, and I’m bringing my trump cards.

Mean Gene: And who might that be?

Hogan: You’ll see. Oh, you’ll see

Hogan smiles widely as he walks out of camera frame.

Mean Gene: Well Tony, you heard it here. Hogan is confident, and he has something up his sleve!
Tony Schiavone: I hope Sting and Hart have a plan as well, Mike, because the last thing WCW needs is to lose their top belt back to the n.W.o.

Mike Tenay: Both are phenomenal competitors, so I’m sure they have a plan. Now, it’s Cruiserweight Championship time, Tony!

Tony Schiavone: This is sure to be a fantastic match.

Cruiserweight Championship Match: Eddie Guerrero vs Rey Mysterio jr.
Eddie and Rey slap hands at the bell rings, and the two friends circle each other slowly. Eddie lunges forward, but right before he reaches the grasps of Rey, he backs up slightly. Rey misses on a wild haymaker, which seems to rile Eddie up. Eddie and Rey slowly lock hands, and engage in a short battle for positioning. Eddie’s size advantage allows him to force Rey backwards. Rey’s feet remain on the ground, but he is bent all the way backwards so his knees are bent, and his upper-body is parallel with the mat. Eddie quickly releases the move, and in one motion delivers an elbow drop to the midsection. Eddie smiles, and quickly puts Mysterio into an arm bar. Rey flips forward, to take the pressure off of his shoulder. Not to be outdone, Eddie twists Rey’s arm twice more, and then forces him forward, flipping him head over heels. Rey lands square on his backside, and Eddie applies a textbook sleeper hold. Rey is able to quickly get to his feet and delivers a back body drop to Guerrero followed by a standing senton. Rey waits for Eddie to get himself into a seated position, and the high flyer delivers a basement drop kick to the back of Guerrero. Eddie screams in pain. His body was awkwardly forced forward and he clutches his chest area. Rey stands up Eddie and wrenches his arm behind his back. Rey tries to bounce Eddie off the ropes, but Eddie holds on to them, as Mysterio attempts a dropkick, landing square on his back.

Guerrero continues to clutch his chest. He smiles again, and waves his arms out to his side, egging on the crowd. Rey is slow to his feet and Guerrero is ready for him with several punches to the midsection. He gives a stiff kick to the gut, and goes for a power bomb. Mysterio is able to reverse into a Hurricanrana. Eddie is quick to kick out of the ensuing pin attempt. Mysterio comes off the ropes, jumps over Eddie, and then delivers a perfect bulldog to the champion, coming off the opposite ropes. Rey goes quickly, as he can, to the top ropes. He attempts a moonsault on Guerrero, but Eddie got his knees up, causing Rey to roll toward the apron in pain. Eddie hops to his feet, and again smiles at the crowd, who seem to really love the athleticism. Eddie points to the sky. He hooks Rey in a suplex position, and delivers a beautifully devastating suplex. He twists his hips, rolls to his feet, and never having released Rey, hits a second suplex. Tenay and Schiavone sell how he has been doing this for years in Mexico, so Rey should have been able to scout it out.

After the impact of the second suplex, Eddie rolls his hips, extending his legs far over the head of Mysterio as he attempts to roll, but Rey is able to use his free arm to grab the ankle of Eddie and rolls it into a quick pin. Eddie kicks out at 2, and he is heated as he gets to his feet. He is quick to his Mysterio with a drop kick, and for the fourth time smiles widely at Mysterio. He walks slowly over to the motionless Rey, and kicks him in the face, shoulder, arm, midsection, and legs all down his left side, working his way from head to toe. He then grabs the legs, and hits a knee drop to the groin. The crowd boo’s Guerrero’s heelish tactic against his ‘’friend.’’ He then wrenches the knee of Mysterio and walks around the ring, rolling his wrists at his sides. The crowd begins to really boo, but Eddie doesn’t care, he feels like a star.

Eddie grabs Mysterio by his mask and stands him up. He has a fistful of the back of the mask of Mysterio as he looks toward the crowd and chuckles. His opponent is out on his feet, held up only by the hand of Guerrero. Eddie reaches his arm far back and prepares to strike Rey. Rey is able to use both arms to block the punch, and grabbing the wrists of the Champion, slides between his legs. He hits a double kneed back breaker on Eddie, followed by a spinning leg drop. Mysterio has been grounded most of the match, and he is ready to fly. He picks up Guerrero and leads him to the ropes. Rey bounces Eddie off the far ropes, hops to the top rope, and hits a whisper in the wind, on charging Guerrero. Eddie falls perfectly, and Rey heads to the apron. Eddie is slow to his feet, but is apparently paying close attention to where he is in the ring. As he stands, Rey attempts a springboard cross body, but Guerrero ducks. Rey lands on his feet, but his momentum carries him into the far ropes and he receives a massive spinning elbow from Guerrero. Guerrero heads up to the top ropes and delivers a Frog Splash onto Rey. The ref counts out the 3 count, which Eddie counts with his fingers along with the ref.

Backstage: Mean Gene interviews Bret “Hitman” Hart.

Mean Gene: I’m here with Bret Hart, tonight, Hitman, you have a match against WCW Champion Sting, and Hollywood Hogan. What is your plan tonight?

Bret Hart: Gene, you know I’m a guy who keeps my promises. I may not win, but I promise Hulk Hogan won’t. This is a two man race.

Mean Gene: What about the n.W.o.? Aren’t they a concern?

Bret Hart: I am The Best There Is, The Best There Was, and The Best There Ever Will Be. If, Degenerates up north don’t scare me, why would a cheap, watered down version of en-dubbya-oh will scare the Hitman? Tonight, either Sting or Me, but not Hogan. Guaranteed.

WCW United States Championship Match: Diamond Dallas Page vs Curt Hennig.
Hennig comes out first, n.W.o. music blaring on the P.A. system. Hennig is followed closely by Eric Bischoff.

*Self High Five*

Page’s music hits, but the United States Champion is nowhere to be seen. Hennig and Bischoff stare down the ramp, looking for Page to emerge from the entrance ramp. His music stops abruptly. Bischoff grabs a microphone and looks overly confident as he smiles toward the crowd.

Eric Bischoff: “Well… DDP isn’t man enough to show up to face Curt Hennig. Page, you have about 15 seconds to get in this ring, or you will be giving up your US title, to your scheduled opponent, Curt Hennig! 15….14….13….12…. Wow, Page you must not want to keep that belt! Where was I? 10…9….’’

‘’yo! It’s me! It’s me! It’s D…D…P….”

Page emerges from the crowd. The camera searches for him, showing the concern on Bischoff’s face for a few seconds before Page is shown, among the people.

Page: ‘’I just had to run out here, because you sent you crony, The Giant to my dressing room to take me out, but he didn’t know that I was in the same dressing room as….”

In the ring, Bischoff says ‘please not Goldberg…’as Page pauses and looks around to his people as he trots to the ring, through the crowd.

Page: ‘’Goldberg! So The Giant was a little distracted, and I slipped out the door, and come out here to defend my strap!”

Page is now in the ring. He walks up to Hennig, mouthing away from the mic. Bischoff goes to hit Page, but DDP catches his arm, and twists him into a diamond cutter! The bell rings, and Page goes hard after Hennig. Hennig is stunned that he will have to wrestle, and Page takes advantage. Page pummels Hennig with vicious right hands to the face, and chest area. Page tosses Hennig off the ropes, and delivers a back body drop to the Perfect One. Hennig sells his pain, grabbing his lower back, as Schiavone and Tenay run down Hennig’s history of back surgery and injuries. Page goes right back to work on the lower back of Hennig, delivering a hard knee to the base of the Perfect Spine. Hennig rolls onto his back, and is holding his hips high in the air, still grasping his back. Page quickly delivers a brutal elbow to the neck of Hennig, and goes for a pin, Hennig kicks out at 1. The Perfect One rolls to his knees.

Page comes toward Hennig, but is met with a shoulder block in the stomach. He doubles over in pain and gets a hard uppercut to the face. Page staggers away. Page calms himself, and collects his senses. He turns around to come hard at Hennig, but is met with a few textbook punches to the face. Page staggers into the corner and is getting a mud hole stomped into him. Hennig gets Page to the mat, seated in the corner. He puts a knee to the Champions throat and the ref counts to stop the hold. At 4, Hennig releases and the ref grabs him by the shoulder. Hennig tosses the ref, turns around and crushes Page’s face with a boot to the nose. Page slouches in the corner. Hennig is still chewing on his gum, and returns to his nonchalant posture as he moseys over to DDP.
Hennig does his patented snap kicks to Page and forces him to squirm. Page has nowhere to go. He tries to block the kicks, but Hennig is just too strong. Hennig, finally satisfied with the damage he has done, stands Page up, and delivers a textbook belly-to-belly suplex. Page flies across the ring, and Hennig smiles at his accomplishment. Hennig slowly rolls towards Page and goes for the cover. Surely, Page is done, he couldn’t even stand under his own power, BEFORE the suplex.
NO! Page kicks out at the last possible second. Schiavone is dying on the announce table, as the things coming from his mouth can barely be described as “words.” Tenay and Schiavone both started to proclaim a new champion, until the ref finally holds two fingers high. Hennig is distraught, but know that he must continue the fight. Page rolls to his side, leaving his ribcage and chest open to the onslaught. Hennig blasts Page once directly in the ribs, and Page recoils in pain. Hennig tenses his leg for a second punt-like kick to Page’s midsection, but Page is ready this time. The Champ snatches Hennig’s leg and rolls away from him, causing The Perfect One to roll over Page, and onto his chest. Page then locks his legs around Hennig’s leg and twists his ankle. Hennig’s arms are already at the ropes, and he grabs on quickly. Page releases the hold, and is the first to his feet.
Page is staggering around, trying to regain his senses. Hennig sees an opportunity and runs at Page, looking for a clothesline. Page ducks, and Hennig comes off the ropes. DDP catches the lunging Hennig with a massive lariat of his own! Page is beyond exhausted as the two hit the mat. The United States Champion is the first to his feet. Instead of go for a cover, DDP wants a little revenge. He stands Hennig up and starts to punch away at his neck and head. Page then tosses Hennig to the floor. Page slides slowly out of the ring, and follows Hennig, who staggers around the far side, looking to catch his breath. Page turns Hennig around, looking to punch him, but is met with a quick boot the gut. Hennig then bounces Page’s head off the barricade several times. Page collapses to his knees, head resting against the cold steel separating the fans and the wrestlers. Hennig takes a two step run, and knees Page as hard as he can. Page collapses. Hennig tosses DDP back into the ring, and goes for the pin.
No! Again, Page is resilient. The US Champ has some fight left in him. Hennig wants this over. He yells a few obscenities toward the ref, and head to the top rope. Hennig spits his gum out, and swats it toward the crowd. Hennig waits for Page to stand, and looks like a flying clothesline is his weapon of choice. At 6 foot 3, 260 lbs, Curt Hennig is no small man, but as he leaps high into the air, he looks as graceful as a cruiserweight. The fans ohh and aah at Hennig’s altitude. Page takes advantage of Hennig’s uneccesarily high leap, and does something that shocks the fans beyond belief. Page nails a Diamond Cutter to the Perfect Curt Hennig. Hennig convulses on the mat. Page stands up, surprised almost. He holds his hands high in the air, making the Diamond Cutter sign! The pin is academic. Diamond Dallas Page just wowed the fans with the most innovative Diamond Cutter to date.

Backstage: Mean Gene finds Sting.

Mean Gene: Sting.. Sting… can I have a word?

Sting just stares at Gene. Okerlund is startled by the intensity of Sting.

Mean Gene: Tonight, Hollywood Hogan and Bret Hart gun for your title, any concern about the match up?

Sting doesn’t speak, he takes a deep breath and stares into the camera. He is beyond intense, causing Gene to back away.

Mean Gene: uh, back to you guys…

Schiavone and Tenay hype the next match up, while for a second Gene is shown staring at Sting.

Grudge Match: The Flock vs The Four Horsemen.
The first portion of this match is Chris Benoit, being his normal self, trying to take on the whole Flock by himself. Five minutes into the match, Ric Flair, Dean Malenko and Buff Bagwell watch as Benoit is decimated by Mortis and Saturn. Raven sits, with his legs dangling off the side of the ring, and his back against the ropes. Flair drops down to the floor and goes over the other side of the ring. Flair grabs Raven’s legs and pulls him down to the floor, and is quickly attacked by a flying Kidman. Saturn then goes after Flair. Malenko runs to the other side of the ring, and tries to help the Nature Boy. Benoit delivers a few knife edge chops to the chest of Mortis, ducks a wild haymaker, and sprints to his corner. Benoit tags in Buff Bagwell, who runs at Mortis. He ducks a clothesline, and attempts to hit Saturn as he returns to the apron. Saturn sees Buff and punches him square in the face. Bagwell staggers away from the ropes, and into Mortis. Bagwell tries to punch Mortis, but the monster grabs his arm, hooks his leg, and puts him up on his back. Benoit runs full steam at Mortis, who holds Bagwell in a fireman’s carry. Benoit gets a massive boot to the face. Raven has finally come into the ring, picks up Benoit and hits an Evenflow DDT. Kidman and Saturn both take out Malenko and Flair. Mortis steps up the ropes, to the second turnbuckle and falls backwards onto Bagwell. He hooks the leg of Buff Daddy as the ref counts out the three.

WCW Tag Team Title Match: Harlem Heat vs The Outsiders.
Kevin Nash starts the match against Booker T, and goes for a quick big boot. Booker ducks and comes back with a diving crossbody. Nash staggers to his corner, tagging in a struggling Scott Hall. Hall comes into the ring, and goes after Booker. It is obvious to the fans that something is not right about Hall. Booker tosses him off the ropes, and Hall’s rebound is among the slowest seen in history. Booker catches him with tilt-a-whirl slam. Booker tags in Stevie Ray, who picks up Hall, holding him in a horizontal position. Stevie tosses Hall at Nash, knocking both to the floor. The referee calls the contact between the two Outsiders, a tag. Nash comes into the ring, after collecting himself. Hall is still on the ground. The camera shows him for just a split second, and Razor appears to be laughing hysterically.

Nash and Stevie exchange blows, and the two big men are jockeying for positioning. Nash, clearly agitated, delivers a knee to Stevie’s gut. Nash locks him in a headlock, and backs into his own corner, looking to tag in Scott Hall. Hall is still on the floor, and Nash releases Stevie. Nash stares at Hall, and is yelling at his partner. Stevie Ray overly sells the knee to the gut, and crawls to his own corner, looking to tag in Booker. Book stands in his own corner, and yells toward Nash. Big Sexy turns around, and smiles at Booker. Nash says “I don’t know what to do.” Booker responds with “Bring It, Sucka!” Nash and Booker come towards each other in the center of the ring. The two lock up, hand to hand. Nash is twisting and contorting the wrists of Booker, putting him to a knee. Booker sees an opportunity, and delivers a shoulder to the thigh of Nash. Booker stands up, and tosses Nash over his shoulder, and onto his back. Booker stands up Nash, and goes for the Book End. Nash elbows Booker in the side of the head, and pushes Booker off the ropes. Nash then scoops slams Booker and hits a leg drop across his throat and chest.

Stevie rushes in to break up the tag. Stevie stands up, and is face to face with Scott Hall. Hall can barely stand. Stevie goes to punch him, and Hall ‘blocks’ the blow. Hall actually whiffs on his block, so Stevie stops without hitting him, as if Scott Hall has a force field around him. Hall, and the now standing Nash, throw Stevie over the top rope. The Outsiders celebrate their accomplishment. They turn around into a double standing side kick from Booker! Booker comes off the ropes and hits an elbow drop to Nash. Hall stands, and swings wildly at Book, who ducks and catches Hall with the Book End. Hall rolls to the floor, where Stevie is waiting.

Booker stands up Hall, and kicks Big Sexy in the stomach. He bounces off the ropes and hits a Harlem Axe Kick! Booker does his patented Spin-a-roonie. Booker goes for the cover.
, wasn’t this bad if you take out Hall, who was beyond drunk.

Post-Match: The Steiner Brothers appear in the ring, and attach Harlem Heat. The newest members of The Wolfpack carried chairs to the ring with them, and the attack is very brutal. Scott drags a table into the ring, and hit a Steinerizer on Booker through the table. The Wolfpack celebrate their beat down, with Hall spitting on Stevie’s unconscious body.

WCW Television Title Match: Disco Inferno vs Chris Jericho vs Goldberg.

*Disco Fever*

Disco Inferno comes to the ring, dancing as usual. He does seem like he is concerned, but he is the Champion. He is the only one who doesn’t have to win to walk out of Souled Out, Champion.

*One Crazed Anarchist*

Chris Jericho comes out, and he is amped up. He will need it, with the fight he has on the horizon. Jericho gave Goldberg his biggest scare to date; super kicking Goldberg into a 2 and 9/10ths cover on Nitro a few weeks back. Goldberg’s dressing room door is shown, and a hand appears in the screen. Three quick knocks, and there is a loud bang inside. The door opens, and Goldberg emerges. He marches through the back as “Invasion” blares through the P.A.

Goldberg comes around the corner, and falls backwards. Jericho is shown in the ring, smiling widely. The camera shows Goldberg s bleeding slightly from the top of his head. A chair enters the frame, placed across Goldberg’s neck. The camera pans up, and shows The Giant. He is crushing Goldberg. Hollywood Hogan walks into the frame, and nods at Giant. Giant stands up Goldberg, picks him up and places the beast on his shoulder. The Giant rams Goldberg’s head into a door, and then through a large window. Giant then tosses Goldberg’s whole body through the window. Hogan is egging on Giant.

Back in the ring, Bischoff is standing on the entrance ramp, with “rockhouse” playing.

Eric Bischoff: “Ladies and Gentlemen, Mister Goldberg will be indisposed. This match will be a one-on-one matchup for the WCW Television Title. Weighing in at 238 pounds, from Brooklyn, New York, he is the WCW Television Champion: Disco Inferno. The Challenger, weighing in at 221 pounds, from Winnipeg, Manatoba, Canada: representing the n.W.o. Chris Jericho!”

Jericho removes his “Monday Night Jericho” T-shirt, to reveal as n.W.o. shirt, as Inferno looks on in confusion. Jericho takes a step toward Disco, who flinches. Jericho bounces off the far ropes, slides between Disco’s legs and skids to a halt. Jericho locks Inferno in an inverted DDT, and slams his head to the mat. Jericho bounces up quickly, runs toward the nearest ropes, and delivers a beautiful Lionsault. Jericho wags a finger at the crowd and protrudes his lips. He stands up Inferno, and lifts him in a suplex, pausing at the top, mocking Goldberg. Jericho finishes the Jackhammer, and pins Inferno.

Mike Tenay: What a night it has been thus far. WCW has been turned on its head. We have a new Television Champion, and new Tag Champions. Jericho and The Giant joined the n.W.o. and The Flock defeated the Four Horsemen.

Tony Schiavone: WCW will never be the same again, and this will undoubtedly go down as one of the greatest nights in WCW history. Right now, we’re going to Michael Buffer, who will introduce the participants in our Main Event, here at SOULED OUT!

Michael Buffer: “Tonights Main Event is for the Heavyweight Championship, of the World. Are you ready? Wrestling fans…. Are you rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrready?! For the thousands in attendance, and the millions watching around the world, from Trotwood, Ohio, LETS GET READY TO RUUUUUUMMMMMBLLEEEEEEEEEEE!”

*Hitman in the House*

Michael Buffer: “Introducing first, he is the master of the Sharpshooter, from Calargy, Alberta, Canada, weighing in at 241 pounds, he is the Best There Is, the Best There Was, and the Best There ever will be: Bret “The Hitman” Haaaart!”

Hart comes out of the entrance way to a big pop. He is confident, but not too much so. He gives his sunglasses to a fan nearer to the entrance way that usual. He walks around the ring once, letting his music blare through the arena. He enters the ring, opens his jacket and holds his hands to his sides, bowing slightly the raucous crowd.

*Voodoo Child*

Michael Buffer: “Now Introducing, the biggest star in wrestling history. He has mystified fans from around the world, from Hollywood, California, weighing in at 271 pounds, The Immortal, Hollywood Hulk Hooooooogaaaaaan”

Hogan comes through the entrance way, playing air guitar, with The Giant, Chris Jericho, and Eric Bischoff in toe. Hogan cups his hand to his ear, listening to the chorus of boos, and he points at Hart. Hart drops down to the floor, and stands near the announce table, as the new World order enter the ring.

*Crow*

Michael Buffer: “Introducing, the master of the Scorpion Death Lock, from Venice Beach, California, weighing 251 pounds, he is the WCW Heavyweight Champion of the Wooooooooorld, The Man They Call Stiiiiiiiiinnnnnnng!”

Lightning flashes inside the arena, as Sting appears on the entrance ramp. He has a baseball bat in one hand, and the title belt in the other. Sting holds the title high, and then points his bat at n.W.o. members around the ring. Sting still hasn’t spoken in 12 months, and shakes his head towards the n.W.o. members. The lights come back on, and as the smoke clears, Goldberg has eliminated Jericho and Bischoff. The Giant sees Goldberg, and turns to run. He hops the barricade, and goes through the crowd to escape the beast. Goldberg follows, leaving Hart, Hogan, and Sting still standing.

WCW World Heavyweight Title Match: Sting vs Bret Hart vs Hollywood Hogan.
Hogan walks up to the other two, talking trash. Hart delivers a strike to his face, he whips around, and receives a stiff kick to the gut from Sting. Sting delivers a massive uppercut to Hogan as he bends over in pain. He turns again to receive another calculated strike from Hart. Hart then Irish whips Hogan into a corner, and turns towards Sting. He then Irish whips Sting toward Hogan. Sting delivers a Stinger Splash, and Hogan falls face first to the mat.

Sting and Hart circle. The crowd begins to slowly erupt. This is a dream match for any wrestling fan. Sting and Hart lock up, but Sting releases and drops away from Hart. Hart looks confusedly toward Sting. Sting runs toward Hart, at full speed. Hart steps toward Hart, to meet him head on, but Sting clubs the Hitman to the side and Sting clotheslines Hogan to the mat. Hart is relieved and the two lock up a second time. Hart gains the upper hand with a knee to the stomach. Hart then delivers a forearm smash to the back of Sting. Sting goes down to one knee, and is met with a double axe handle to the back of the head. Hart begins to kick Sting in the ribcage.

Hart turns toward the crowd and poses, momentarily. He picks Sting back up, and locks him in for a suplex. Hart delivers a perfect snap suplex, and rolls directly on top of the Stinger.
Kick-out by the World Champion! Hart grabs the legs of Sting and begins to work away at the thighs of Sting. Sting is being stretched and smashed into intense pain. Hart backs away, allowing Sting to stand. Hart runs at Sting, Sting drops to his stomach, hoping Hart would hop over him, and rebound off the ropes. However, Hart runs right past Sting, drilling the now standing Hogan with a knee to the gut. He then tosses Hollywood to the floor. Sting looks on, in confusion. Sting has an opening to attack Hart from behind, but Sting doesn’t take the opportunity. Sting yells, Schiavone describes it as a howl. Hart turns around and the two legends lock up again. This time Sting is able to win the battle for leverage. Sting scoop slams Hart, and bounces off the ropes. He delivers a knee drop to Hart’s skull. Hart rolls to his chest, kicking his legs in pain.

Down on the floor, Jericho and Bischoff are finally standing. They converse with the n.W.o. leader, and Jericho is telling Hogan to wait for the right opportunity. Sting has stood Hart up, and Irish whips the Hitman off the ropes. Once Hart rebounds, Sting lands a hip toss, and heads to the top rope. Sting lands a top rope splash on Hart, and cups his hands around his mouth and “howls” again. Schiavone begins to question if Sting has joined the Wolfpack. Sting is the virtuous one, the man who can bring down the whole n.W.o. He would never screw WCW and join the Wolfpack, would he?

Sting picks up the legs of Hart, and tries to lock on the Scorpion Deathlock, but Hart is very familiar with the maneuver. Hart rolls toward Sting, and ends up with his hands on Sting’s ankles, standing over the Champion. Hart steps between Sting’s legs, crosses his feet, and starts to turn him over. Sting is crawling, dragging Hart with him, toward the ropes. Hart finally gets him onto his stomach and wrenches, but Sting is resilient. Hart looks over his shoulder to see Sting nearing the ropes. He looks forward as he starts to pull Sting from the break. Hogan is up on the apron, about the enter the ring. Hart releases the Sharpshooter and goes after Hogan. He punches and kicks Hogan, and tosses him back down to the floor. Hart turns around and Sting is nose to nose with the Hitman.
Hart strikes Sting with a knife-edged chop. Sting shakes his head at Hart. Hart punches Sting in the face, but Sting shakes it off. He is stone faced as Hart pulls back his fist to punch Sting again. Sting blocks the blow, and returns the favor. Sting delivers a few chops of his own, followed by a punch to the face of Hart. Sting whips Hart into the corner and nails a Stinger Splash. He tosses Hart into the opposite corner and delivers another Splash. Hart staggers toward the center of the ring. Sting picks up Hart, and delivers a Scorpion Deathdrop!

Hogan is up on the outside, and going to slide in to break up the count. Hogan pulls his body unto the apron, and slides underneath the bottom rope. Sting is covering Hart.
Hogan never makes it to break up the count. His foot is caught. Jericho has both hands around the ankle of The Immortal. Hogan looks back in disbelief as Sting’s music starts to play. Hogan rolls back out of the ring and pushes Jericho. Jericho rips off his n.W.o. shirt as Hogan gets nose to nose with him. Jericho takes off the TV titles, and holds it up. Jericho tells Hogan, “I used you, Hogan. I used you!”

In the ring, Sting is standing on the rope watching Jericho and Hogan shouting at each other. Hart gets to his feet, and rips Sting off the ropes. He and Sting stare at deep into the others eyes. Hart extends his hand. Sting slowly takes it, and the two nod.

Mike Tenay: Looks like Sting and Hart have put their issues in the past!

Tony Schiavone: Hopefully, tomorrow night on Nitro we get some answers from Jericho! Hogan was about to break up the count, but Jericho stopped him!

Mike Tenay: We all knew Hogan’s strategy coming in was to stay away from the action until Hart and Sting had beaten each other to pulps, but he never got his chance.

Tony Schiavone: He shouldn’t get a chance! Not after everyone he screwed during his title reign. Well folks, thanks for joining us, on the greatest night in WCW history! Tune in tomorrow night at 8pm on TNT for Monday Night Nitro!

*Video Package*

Chris Jericho holds up the Teleivision Title, “Hollywood” Hogan flexing in an n.W.o. shirt, Goldberg jumping the barricade, Raven and Mortis standing over Chris Benoit, Bret Hart and Sting shaking hands, Sting holding the World Title over his shoulder, Hogan points a finger at Jericho

Click to expand...

*Nitro Theme*

Tony Schiavone: Last night, folks, WCW saw one of the biggest nights in wrestling history. I still can’t believe what we saw, and tonight’s backlash will be incredible as well.

Mike Tenay: The thing that has me most excited is the fact that Ted Turner will be here tonight to make a major announcement, regarding the future of WCW! Thank you for joining us in this, WCW’s first 3 hour Monday Nitro!

Tony Schiavone: We have a new Television Champion, a new Tag Team Champions, and a whole lot of unanswered questions!

*Howl*

Kevin Nash emerges from the entrance way. He’s wearing a red t-shirt over his wrestling gear. The shirt has a wolf on it, and says “PACK” underneath it. He holds his hands over his head, crossing his middle and ring fingers on both hands, making a “W”. Nash reaches the ring, and pulls a mic out of his back pocket. He smiles at the crowd, and pauses just before speaking to whip his hair out of his face.

Nash: “Last Night, it may look like we LOST. Scott Hall and Kevin Nash are no longer the Tag Team Champions, but we didn’t lose. Not at all, last night, Big Sexy and the Pack set their plan in motion. Step one, was to get the Tag Titles off the Outsiders, and put Scott and Rick in a position to snag them for themselves. I’m not a big fan of laying down, so I figured letting the Steiners beat Harlem Heat for the belts was better than them beating US!”

The crowd is obviously confused. Hell, I’m writing this and I’m confused. Vince Russo?

Nash: “The next step is for Scott Hall to beat DDP for the United States Title. That shouldn’t be hard. Page sucks.”

Slight boo for the dig at DDP.

Nash: “And the final step is for me, Big Sexy Kevin Nash, to win the World Title. Sting, I’m throwing my name in the hat! I want that strap, and I’m coming for it! I don’t care what I have to do, and who I have to beat, I am going to be beating you for that title.”

Just the mere mention of Sting’s name sends to crowd into a frenzy.

Nash: “Eric Bischoff, you already know what I can do. You’ve seen my work up close. Throw whoever you want. Luger, Savage, Giant, Hogan, Goldberg…. Anyone you want. I’m game, you just name the time and the place, and I’ll be there.”

Nash smiles toward the crowd as he drops the mic, steps over the top rope and climbs down. His music hits as he walks back down the entrance ramp.

Tony Schiavone: Well it seems that Kevin Nash would like to win the Big Gold here in WCW. Do you think he has what it takes, Professor?

Mike Tenay: A man of his size and skill set can win the title, but we will have to see. Sting is on a roll, and I personally wouldn’t want to face him, and I doubt there are many wrestlers who would take on The Stinger.

*COMMERCIAL*

Back from commercial, and Tony and Mike are giving a quick rundown from Souled Out.

*One Crazed Anarchist*

Chris Jericho is coming down, holding the WCW Television Title over his shoulder. He is dressed to wrestle, and sporting his Monday Night Jericho t-shirt.

Tony Schiavone: This man, I don’t know whether to cheer or boo. He has Giant eliminate Goldberg prior to the Television Title match, but turns around and prevents Hollywood Hogan from winning the World Title in the Three Way Dance

Mike Tenay: I don’t know either, Tony, but Jericho hopefully will explain his actions, here.
Jericho enters the ring, after holding both arms out to his sides and posing for the crowd. He grabs the mic and has a smug look on his face.

Jericho: Whew! What a night I had last night. First and foremost, I would like to dedicate my title win to….. myself. I proved I am the smartest man in WCW, and clearly I can do whatever I want to whoever I want. Goldberg… pffffffff, no challenge for this role model. Hollywood Hogan? No way Pedro. Allow me to explain. I needed the n.W.o. and Eric Bischoff’s help to get Greenberg out of my match for the TV title. So I swindled the n.W.o. into thinking Giant and I would join n.W.o. and be their henchmen, in exchange for some help getting this title around my waist.”

Slight pop for the way n.W.o. was undermined.

Jericho: “yes… yes.. I know. I’m not the kind of guy to play second fiddle. Jericho walks alone. Well, almost alone… from now on I will have a sidekick, if you will. A man to handle the duties I am too busy for.”

*Chokeslam*

Jericho: “Did I mention he’s a monster?”

The Giant comes down the entrance ramp, with his hair in a ponytail. He isn’t wearing his usual singlet, he has on a black “Jericho” tshirt, and he is wearing shorts and kick pads. He enters the ring, and motions to the crowd with a “Chokeslam” hand motion. Jericho tosses the Monster the mic.

Giant: “allow me to introduce myself. My name is Paul Wight. And I am the Giant of WCW. Not Goldberg, not Kevin Nash, not Mortis, not… anyone! Jericho and I are the future of professional wrestling.”

Jericho takes the mic back, grinning at his new found teammate.

Jericho: “So bring out my first victim. I understand I am defending my Television Title!”

*Disco Fever*

Tony Schiavone: Disco Inferno is going to be invoking his rematch clause. He feels like he got screwed over last night, and he has a point.

Mike Tenay: yeah, if his point that Goldberg should be TV champ!

First Match: Television Championship Match: Chris Jericho © vs Disco Inferno.
For the third time this month, Jericho is facing off against Disco, with the TV title on the line. These two put together a really good match this time. Jericho never really lets Disco get the upper hand, but he can’t put away the Dancing Fool. Inferno kicks out after a missile dropkick. Jericho goes to argue with the referee over what he thought was a slow count. Disco is slow to his feet. Jericho turns around and nails his straight in the chin with a superkick. No run up, no trickery, just a kick square to his jaw. Disco plops down, unconscious. Jericho runs to the ropes, performs a Lionsault. Jericho stands up and steps on the chest of Disco, as he walks over him. He then locks him into the Liontamer. Disco is out like a light, and unable to tap. The referee calls for the bell on a TKO.

Jericho celebrates exactly like Shawn Michaels did at Wrestlemania XII, kissing the title while on his knees and telling the Giant to remove Disco from the ring. Wight picks up Inferno and tosses him over the ropes to the floor.

*COMMERCIAL*

Second Match: Cruiserweight Champion Eddie Guerrero vs Juventud Guerrera, non-title. This is a squash match, just to prove how dominant Eddie is. He crushes Juvy and wins it with a frog splash.

Eddie straps the belt around his waist and drops down to one knee. He holds his hands out to his side, and cups his hands to egg on the crowd. Guerrero slaps the belt several times with his hand.

Backstage: Hogan arrives, with Bischoff in toe. Hogan isn’t wearing his normal all black attire. Hogan is dressed in a white t-shirt and blue jeans. He has a red bandanna on, and sunglasses. He is rolling a suitcase behind him as he enters the arena.

“Mean” Gene Okerlund is standing by with Ric Flair, Dean Malenko and Chris Benoit.

Mean Gene: Last night, at Souled Out, the three of you and Buff Bagwell were defeated by Raven’s flock. Is this the end of the ongoing feud between the groups, or are the Horsemen out for revenge?

Flair: Mean Gene, last night, was a travesty. Dean Malenko and myself didn’t even get into the match before that monster Mortis pinned Bagwell. I am not mad at you Buff, but it will take a while before I can give you another shot at being a member of this group.

Mean Gene: So The Horsemen are back down to 3?

Benoit: That’s right, Gene-o. Tonight, we begin the search for a new member.

Mean Gene: What’s the plan, and what are your requirements to be accepted into the Four Horsemen?

Malenko: Gene, we don’t really have a plan, but we need someone trustworthy, solid in the ring, and focused at all times.

Mean Gene: And Buff wasn’t quite there?

Benoit: and neither was I.

Flair: It doesn’t matter, I have requested a match tonight.

Benoit and Malenko both look awkwardly at Flair, unsure of what the match is.

Flair: I have asked that tonight, Mortis will face ME! The Nature Boy Ric Flair

Malenko and Benoit pull Flair out of the view of the camera with obvious looks of concern on their faces. They appear to be trying to talk some sense into Flair.

*COMMERCIAL*

Third Match: Steve McMichael vs Scott Norton.
Steve McMichael and Scott Norton may have the worst match in the history of wrestling. Every move is off, and they have terrible timing. Norton and McMichael resort to some hay makers and body slams, but nothing of real note. McMichael ends the match with a Mongodriver, and pins Norton easily.

Backstage: JJ Dillon walks into Hulk Hogan’s dressing room, and says that Eric Bischoff is going to want to come to the ring. Ted Turner will be making his announcements at the top of the last hour.

Tenay and Schiavane discuss the Nitro 3 hour format, and what a great opportunity it is for some of their younger and less experienced wrestlers it is.

Fourth Match: La Parka vs Chavo Guerrero jr.
This is a pretty solid match, with Chavo hitting some impressive high flying moves. Parka dictates the pace, but the two keep it quick. La Parka hits a nice tilt a whirl backbreaker, Chavo kicks out at 2. La Parka goes to the top rope, but misses a Corkscrew Moonsault. Chavo takes over. Guerrero emulates his uncle, Eddie throughout the match, and eventually wins it with a Frog Splash.

*COMMERCIAL*

We come back from commercial, and Eric Bischoff, JJ Dillon and Hulk Hogan are in the ring. Schiavone and Tenay discuss how monumental tonight is, and say that Ted Turner is expected to give a state of WCW address over the Turnertron.

*Nitro Theme*

The P.A. explodes with WCW’s flagship programs theme. The crowd is confused, as are Bischoff and Dillon. Ted Turner appears on the stage, microphone in his hand, and smile on his face. Schiavone and Tenay go ballistic as Ted comes toward the ring. Turner enters the ring, shakes hands with Dillon and Bischoff and nods curtly to Hogan.

Turner: “Welp. I’m here!”

The crowd eats up this simple gesture. Turner sounds very aw-schucks as he begins.

Turner: “I have been in meetings non-stop today, trying to figure out ways to further improve WCW. I have a list of ideas, and the first of which is; a new commissioner of WCW, someone to set the matches. Dillon, Eric, you two no longer have the power to book matches. That power will belong solely to the man I am about to introduce: Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, the new Commissioner of WCW!”

Bischoff and Hogan look dumbfounded at eachother, and then up the ramp.

*American Dream*

Turner: “The American Dream Dusty Rhodes!”

The crowd goes wild. Dusty Rhodes comes down to the ring, wearing blue jeans and cowboy boots. Rhodes smiles to the crowd and hops up the steps and into the ring. He shakes the hand of Turner and Dillon, but Bischoff refuses the handshake and Hogan shakes his head angrily at Rhodes. Dusty grabs a mic and starts.

Rhodes: “Oh lawrdy! Dubya-see-dubya, de’ American Dream is here baybay!”

The crowd loves Rhodes, and Schiavone and Tenay play this fact up.

Rhodes: “Mista Turna, Ol’ Dusty won’t let ya down, no suh! I am goin’ ta make sure that Dubya-See-Dubya continues ta prospa under yo’ ownaship”

Tuner: “I trust that you will. Now, Mister Bischoff, you will continue to be Vice President of WCW, but in order to keep your job, you must relinquish your affiliation with the new World order. This is not negotiable, you are either WCW or you’re unemployed.”

Bischoff looks awkwardly at Hogan, who nods. Bischoff extends his hand asking for the mic. Rhodes hands him his, and then takes a slight step back, standing next to Turner.

Bischoff: “It’s funny you would say that, because tonight, is the final night n.W.o. will ever be mentioned again on Monday Nitro. Hulk Hogan and myself are distancing ourselves from what has become a failing group. Hulk Hogan and I, are no longer n.W.o. members, and hope to become members of the WCW roster and staff.”

Turner looks at Dusty and Dillon. Dusty starts to talk, but doesn’t have a mic. He reaches out toward Eric, who reluctantly hands him the mic

Dusty: “Ah, yes. En-Dubya-Oh, the very thing that almost destroyed e’rything I love. Tha thing that was yo’ brain child. Hulk Hogan, you ‘n’ I have neva gotten ‘long, but I have to say that you can be a asset for dubya-see-dubya. Eric, you and Hulk are welcome, but you must neva, and I mean, eva cross me. Or there will be hell ta pay!”

Bischoff and Hogan both nod at Bischoff and exit the ring, and walk up the ramp.

Turner: “well, Dusty, what do you have planned for tonight?”

Dusty: “Ah, yes. Back ta bitness. Tonight, Ric Flair will take on Mawtis, Buff Bagwell will face Randy Savage, Goldberg will face “Lawd” Steven Regal, and Kevin Nash and The Steiner Brothers will take on Diamond Dallas Page, Lex Luger and Sting in a three on three tag match! That reminds me, we don’t have a Title Match fo Boston Brawl! There will be a 20 man, over the top rope, battle royal. The winner will face the Dubya-See-Dubya Worl’ Champ at SupaBrawl!”

The crowd goes wild, and Nitro goes to a

*COMMERCIAL*

Fifth Match: Buff Bagwell vs “Macho Man” Randy Savage. Bagwell is out first, and he isn’t his normal dancing self. He is really focuses. He is really pissed at himself. Savage comes down, wearing leather pants, and a leather jacket. He is obviously not ready to wrestle. He takes off his sunglasses and reveals a huge bruise around his nose and eyes. Bagwell looks stunned as Savage points menacingly at him. The referee calls for the bell to ring, and Bagwell slowly approaches Savage. The Macho Man immediately punches Bagwell square in the face. Bagwell falls and Savage kicks him as hard as he can in the ribs. Savage goes to the top rope and points to the sky. A Diving Elbow by Savage ends the match, as quickly as it began.

Saagve grabs a mic and scowls at the crowd. Before he can form any words, he makes awkward grunting sounds.

Savage: “OHHHHHH YEAH. Buff Bagwell, you just ran into a freight train. Lex Luger, I’m not done with you. If I were you, I would watch my back, because no one steals my woman and gets away with it. The Macho Man wants a re-match. Lex, You and Me at Boston Brawl, in a steel cage, no Liz, no chairs. Just you and me, mono-e-mono, ohhhhh YEAH!”

Tony Schiavone: What a challenge! At Boston Brawl, Macho Man wants to get another shot at the Total Package!

Mike Tenay: Hopefully, Lex and Randy can get this nonsense in the past, no woman is worth this trouble!

Tony Schiavone: Normally, I would agree, but Elizabeth is no normal woman!

Backstage: Kevin Nash and the Steiners are preparing for their match. Curt Hennig walks in, and the three all just stare at him. The Perfect One says that he needs to talk to Nash. The Steiners look at Nash, who nods, and then leave. Nash asks Curt to sit, but Hennig says that he won’t be here for long. The two stare intently at each other, the animosity is apparently pretty thick. Hennig looks like he is about to speak several times. Finally he turns his head and takes a deep breath.

*COMMERCIAL*

Backstage: Mean Gene is standing by with Hulk Hogan.

Mean Gene: “Earlier tonight, we all heard Eric Bischoff say that he and Hulk Hogan were leaving the n.W.o. behind. I want to hear it from the man, the man that I remember from 2 years ago. The virtuous superhero of a man, that wouldn’t back down from a fight, and was always willing to do what was right. Hollywood or Hulk? Who am I speaking to?”

Hogan: “Mean Gene, brother, a long time ago, I decided that I shouldn’t be in the new world order, brother. I was too deep, it was like an addiction. The gold, the girls, the glory, Hollywood had it all, but Hulk wasn’t into it, brother! Hulkamania can run wild. Tell your children, tell you parents, tell your wives, HULK HOGAN LIVES!”

Mean Gene: “I have waited 18 months to hear that. I recall, as I’m sure you do, that at Bash at the Beach 1996, I interviewed you, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, and you told the world that WCW was in trouble, and boy were we. Today, if it is true, Hulk is going to help fix WCW. What are your plans?”

Hogan: “Brother, I am going to regain my WCW World Title. Sting is the man, and he took his lumps and he beat the n.W.o. just like I always knew he would, but Hulk Hogan is the biggest superstar in wrestling, brother. I am going to win that Battle Royal, and I am going to be your next WCW Champion. I am to do it fair and square. I am going back into my medicine cabinet, taking out a big ol’ bottle of vitamins, saying my prayers and Sting, I suggest you do the same, brother!”

Mean Gene: “So you, Hulk Hogan, the Immortal are putting your name into the Battle Royal at Boston Brawl?”

Hogan: You know it, Mean Gene. It feels good to be on the path back to normal. Pretty soon, Hulkamania will be running wild! What cha gunna do, brother!

The camera shows the ring, and then cuts to the announcers. They break down the night thus far, and hype the main event. Both seem to be ecstatic that Hulk Hogan is back.

Sixth Match: Goldberg vs “Lord” Steven Regal.
Goldberg looks off as he and Regal exchange blows. Regal goes for arm bars and wrist locks, but Goldberg rolls through and repositions himself. Goldberg can’t find his rhythm, and appears to be getting agitated. Regal locks on a waist lock and tries to lift Goldberg for a side suplex, but the Beast blocks it. Regal tries again, this time he gets a massive elbow to the nose. He is stunned. Blood pours down Regal’s face. He staggers into a corner, feeling the bridge of his nose. Goldberg hits a spear and Jackhammer for the pin.

Before we cut to commercial, Regal is shown. His face is covered in blood as he gingerly touches his nose. It’s obviously broken and his face is already beginning to puff up. The referee calls for the medical team to come and check on Regal.

*COMMERCIAL*

*Also Sprach Zarathustra*

Ric Flair comes out onto the stage. He looks confident as usual. He makes his usual stroll toward the ring, until suddenly Raven and Mortis rush him from behind. They drag him into the ring, where Mortis hits a fireman’s carry slam, followed by a Evenflow DDT by Raven. Raven screams into the face of Flair. Raven tells Flair that this isn’t over! The Flock will reign supreme. Raven goes to lock Flair into his own maneuver, The Figure Four, when…

*Charge*

Benoit and Malenko explode down the ramp and chase Raven and Mortis from the ring. Malenko helps Flair to his feet while Benoit stares down Raven. Benoit grabs a mic, and glares up the ramp, where the other members of The Flock appear.

Benoit: “You’re right, Raven. This isn’t over. You and I have unfinished business, but now you’ve gone out of your way to take out the people that I trust. Now you’ve unleashed a monster, a crippler. I am going to rip you apart limb from limb. You, and you, and you, and you….”

Benoit points at each individual member of the Flock as he says “you.”

Tenay and Schiavone sell how intense Chris Benoit is, and how much they fear what he is capable of. The two then turn their attention to Ric Flair, who is selling the beat down, and has a few specs of blood running down his forehead. Flair refuses medical attention, and Benoit and Malenko help him up, and walk him down the ramp.

Backstage: Diamond Dallas Page is hobbling into Harlem Heat’s locker room. He peeks inside and says its time to roll. Stevie Ray and Booker T appear and the three make their way towards the ring.

Elsewhere: Kevin Nash is talking to the Steiners.

Nash: “Look, with Scott not here, we need protection. He is the best. I vouch for him, and ultimately this is my group, and it’s my call.”

Scott Steiner stands stone faced, while Rick strokes his goatee.

Nash: “Any issues?... Good. So it’s settled, he’s got our backs and we got his. Wolfpack needs all the help it can get, as much as I hate to admit that. Now, boys, we got a match.”

Nash says “match” very sarcastically, and the Steiner’s smile.

*COMMERCIAL*

Tony Schiavone: Ladies and Gentlemen, during our commercial break, it was brought to our attention that Bret Hart, who was supposed to address the crowd, was found face down in the backstage area.

Mike Tenay: And I have a feeling I know who was behind it! Hulk Hogan!

Tony Schiavone: Well I would have to agree that Hogan and Hart have issues, but Hogan came out earlier and claimed to be a changed man, time will tell. Let’s show you what we saw during break.

*Video Package*

Bret Hart is face down, with a baseball bat next to his head. He is out cold, as several staff members try to revive the Hitman.

Click to expand...

Tony Schiavone: I hope that Bret is okay!

Mike Tenay: Hart is one of the toughest men in the business, and I can assure everyone at home that the Hitman will be just fine.

*Howwwwwwwl*

The Wolfpack theme comes over the P.A. bringing out Kevin Nash, Scott Steiner, Rick Steiner, and…. Curt Hennig. Hennig is apparently no longer a member of n.W.o. and chose to join the Wolfpack to help get back at DDP.

*Bang*

United States Champion Diamond Dallas Page and the Tag Team Champions Harlem Heat come out. All three play the crowd a little bit. Page enters the ring first, and takes an uneasy look towards Hennig.

Seventh Match: Kevin Nash and the Steiners vs DDP and Harlem Heat.
These two teams really don’t like each other, and it breaks down to an all-out brawl. The match ends up with Harlem Heat and The Steiners brawling on the floor, and Hennig careful not to get involved and cost them the match. Nash and Page square off in the ring. Nash works over Page for the majority of their encounter, and Page makes the hot tag to Stevie Ray, who is gassed from the fighting with the Steiners. Stevie is able to hit a sidewalk slam on Nash, but is attacked by Scott Steiner. Steiner goes back to his apron and Rick gets tagged in by Nash, and Stevie gets to Booker. The match continues in a back and forth for a while.
When the match pace quickens again, suddenly DDP falls off the apron. Hennig has drug him down to the floor and is beating him with his own title!

The Wolfpack uses the numbers advantage to beat down on Page, Booker, and Stevie Ray. Suddenly lightning strikes in the arena, and the lights go out momentarily. The come back on to show Nash face down in the ring, and the rest of the Wolfpack all standing around the ring looking up in disbelief. The camera pans around the arena and settles to a spot in the rafters. Sting is standing, crow at his feet, staring at the havoc he just caused. The camera shows Nash again, and there is a baseball bat at his feet.

Nitro goes off the air, with Schiavone and Tenay returning to the speculation of the Hart attack backstage. Is Sting a suspect?

The first hour of programming features a “Best of 1997” video package, with interviews from the wrestlers.

*Nitro Theme*

*Pyro*

Tony Schiavone: Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Tony Schiavone, sitting alongside my friend and colleague, “The Professor” Mike Tenay. We welcome you to WCW Monday Nitro! The past week has provided more questions than answers, and hopefully tonight we can resolve some of these.

Mike Tenay: Last week, we saw Bret Hart attacked backstage, surely the Hitman will be hard up for revenge tonight. WCW Nitro is sure to be explosive.

Tony Schiavone: We are 13 days away from out Internet Pay Per View event; Boston Brawl. We already have one thing set on the card, Professor?

Mike Tenay: That’s right, WCW will decide the Number One Contender for the WCW World Heavyweight Title in Boston. Hopefully, tonight we will get some names thrown into the hat for that match.

*Nevermore*

The Flock interrupts Tony and Mike. The four members all make their way to the ring. Raven has a mic, and drops down into the corner, in usual Raven fashion.

Raven: “Tonight, I am issuing a challenge. Dean Malenko, I want you one-on-one!”

*Charge*

Malenko comes down toward the ring quickly. Malenko looks focused, and it is apparent why they call him “The Ice Man.” Malenko comes up onto the apron, but doesn’t enter the ring.

Raven: “One-on-One, with Kidman!”

Malenko stares intently at Raven and mouths “you son of a bitch”

Raven: “Oh… it’s a Raven’s rules match!”

First Match: Dean Malenko vs Kidman in a Raven’s Rules match.
Malenko takes the match to Kidman, scooping him, and hanging him upside down from the top turnbuckle. Malenko repeatedly kicks Kidman in the chest and stomach. Malenko backs into the center of the ring, and looks like he is about to drop kick Kidman in the corner. Saturn hops onto the apron to the right. Malenko stops, turns toward Saturn and goes to punch him. Saturn blocks the first blow, but the second and third connect. Malenko decides to take a run at Raven, who is still in the corner. He hits a kick or two, before Mortis slowly enters the ring and wraps his arms around the waist of Malenko. Mortis delivers a vicious release German suplex. Kidman is slowly up to the top rope and delivers a Seven Year Itch, for the three count.

Post-Match, The Flock beats down on Malenko. Raven slowly stands, pulls something out of his waist and walks up to Malenko, who is being held by Saturn and Mortis. Raven holds a pipe high in the air, and smashes it across Malenko’s head. Malenko is held up by the Flock to receive more and more punishment from the pipe, but he is out on his feet.

*Charge*

Chris Benoit comes from the back, steel chair in hand, and chases The Flock out of the ring. Benoit is furious with the Flock’s trickery.

Benoit: “I warned you, Raven. Tonight, you pushed me way past my limits. Be a man, accept my challenge for a match at Boston Brawl.”

Raven shakes his head, laughing.

Raven: “Alright, alright. You want a match with me? You can have it.”

Benoit nods, and slowly helps Malenko to his feet.

Raven: “Oh, I almost forgot. If you want a piece of me, you will go through Kidman, Saturn, and Mortis in a Gauntlet Match, for the ability to face me. And to just get that, you have to face Mortis next week on Nitro.”

Benoit has been tricked again, but he doesn’t seem to care. He is so intense; it just oozes from his veins. Benoit scowls up the ramp. Raven must get the last laugh.

Raven: “Quote the Raven…. Nevermore.”

Benoit stops tending to Malenko and stands. He holds his hand in the air, four fingers high. Benoit has the deck stacked against him but he is defiant.

*COMMERCIAL*

Tony Schiavone: Folks, we have already had an explosive start to Nitro and it appears that it is only getting more and more destructive by the minute.

Mike Tenay: Just a moment ago, we received word that Hulk Hogan has been found, face down in the backstage area.

Tony Schiavone: We have a crew on the way, medical personnel are on scene and it seems that WCW is being turned upside-down.

Backstage, Hogan is shown face down, blood near his head, and an ace of hearts on his back, between his shoulders. Tenay and Schiavone both sell the beat down, and wonder who is next, or if the assailants will be revealed. Schiavone says that the card must have some significance, and assume that the “heart” is in relation to Bret Hart, and starts to wonder if Hart, who he calls a USA hating phony, is behind the attacks.

Click to expand...

Second Match: Buff Bagwell vs Lex Luger.
This is a match that really makes Luger look strong. He dominates his former friend, Bagwell, and beats him around the ring for a while. Near the 6 minute mark, Miss Elizabeth comes down the ramp and stands on the apron. Luger looks on in confusion. Elizabeth is calling toward Luger, trying to get his response. The referee turns to shoo Liz off the apron, but she demands to talk to Luger. Bagwell slowly gets to his feet. Suddenly, Randy Savage sprints into the ring from the crowd and clocks Bagwell across the back of the head with a lead pipe. Luger looks at Savage in confusion. Savage gestures for Lex to pin Bagwell. Lex starts to lean down, when Savage cracks him on the back of the skull. Luger falls to the mat, limp. Savage pulls Buff onto Luger and rolls to the floor. The ref turns around and sees Bagwell unconscious on top of Luger.

Backstage, Bret Hart is standing by with Gene Okerlund.

Mean Gene: I’m here with Bret “Hitman” Hart, and I gotta tell ya, these attacks… they don’t seem like something you or Sting would be willing to participate in.

Bret Hart: Ya know, Gene, I’m a man of virtue. I am the Excellence of Execution and I don’t think I would ever resort to attacking guys and then trying to make it look like Sting attacked me.

Okerlund: Do you think Sting would be willing to take you out, if he saw you as a threat to his title?

Hart: Sting doesn’t wrestle for THAT title. Sure, it’s a great perk, but WCW needed something and Sting was it. The Savior.

Okerlund: What is next for you, Hitman?

Hart: I am going to put my head down, work hard, and hopefully win this battle royal at Boston Brawl. Sting vs Bret Hart at SuperBrawl sounds pretty good, eh?

Okerlund: You’re encounter at Souled Out was epic, and any follow up would surely be equally impressive. Thanks for your time, Bret. Back to you guys

Hart nods at Okerlund and walks out of the frame. Schiavone and Tenay talk about Nitro up to this point, and discuss what is still to come. Goldberg takes on Disco Inferno and Alex Wright, and Chris Jericho will defend the TV title.

*COMMERCIAL*

Back from break, and Tony and Mike talk about the night thus far, recapping Benoit’s challenge, Hulk Hogan was attacked backstage, Buff Bagwell pinned Lex Luger with a little help from Randy Savage, and Bret Hart responded to accusations that he is the one behind Hulk Hogan’s attack.

*Disco Fever*

The former Television Champion, Disco Inferno, will get a chance to be mauled by Goldberg. Alex Wright comes to the ring with Disco, and Inferno grabs a mic.

Disco Inferno: “AY! I got sommit to say. I am sick of this crap. WCW is a total waste of space, and the fact that that CLOWN Chris Jericho is walkin’ arown’ wit my title is a disgrace. I demanded a match, and was told I had ta “MAKE A STATEMENT” before I was given another shot. Well here’s my statement!”

*Invasion*

Uh-oh, Inferno and Alex Wright will both get a chance to take on the beast.

Third Match: Goldberg vs Alex Wright and Disco Inferno.
Alex Wright and Inferno start out throwing wild haymakers at Goldberg, and actually get him to one knee in a corner. The two viciously kick away at his ribs and back. Wright and Inferno walk away from Goldberg, and do a few disco moves, to warm up. They are looking away from Goldberg, when suddenly he appears in between them. He smashes their heads together. Goldberg dominates the next few minutes before finally finishing it off with a double spear, and a Jackhammer to Wright for the victory.

Backstage, Diamond Dallas Page is standing by with Mean Gene.

Okerlund: Thanks, Tony. I’m here with Diamond Dallas Page, the WCW United States Champion. Dallas, you have had your issues with Kevin Nash, and I understand that you have something you would like to say.

Page: Gene, for far too long, Kevin Nash has been at the base of everything that has gone wrong in this company. He started the disease, and when it started to heal, he had to move on and create another disease. WCW won’t withstand another assault.

Okerlund: The Wolfpack has been gaining momentum, and seemingly has made the “shadow” that hovered over WCW for 18 months, reappear.

Page: Exactly, and that’s why I can’t sit here and let him do it. Nash, 13 days, Boston Brawl, face me. Mono-e-mono. I’ll even put this belt on the line.

??? : Whoa there big fella, don’t get too excited!

Kevin Nash walks into the frame, on the far side of Okerlund. He isn’t dressed to wrestle, and is carrying a bag in his hands.

Page: So, you wanna do it or what?

Nash: Page, I already have plans for Boston Brawl. I just talked to your buddy, Dusty Rhodes, and he told me that I have a spot in the World Heavyweight Championship battle royal. All I had to do was be the only Wolfpack member involved, and since WCW sucks, I don’t see that being an issue.

Page just stares at Nash.

Nash: So I guess that means, YOU will have to either enter the battle royal, or wait until you get a shot at me, when I am World Champ!

Nash walks off screen, laughing. Page looks away from Gene, and then slowly back towards the camera.

Okerlund: So, what will it be Dallas?

Page: I…. gotta think.

A clearly frustrated DDP walks away from Okerlund, who sends it to a

*COMMERCIAL*

Fourth Match: Chris Jericho vs Steven Regal for the WCW Television Title.
This is a really good match, but mostly a filler match with no backstory. Regal and Jericho have a back and forth match, with neither really gaining the upper hand. Eight minutes into the match, Regal goes for a Regalplex, but Jericho uses his free leg to land a low blow on Regal. Jericho goes for the Liontamer, but Regal returns the favor and kicks Lionheart straight in the groin. Jericho and Regal are both down on the mat, and stay that way as the referee makes the count, getting all the way to 9 before both go back toe-to-toe. Jericho hits a few knife edge chops, but Regal refuses to budge. Jericho is getting frustrated, and goes for a suplex. Regal reverses and lifts Jericho high into the air. Regal holds Jericho vertical, and the TV champion screams in fear. Jericho starts to swing his arms, and eventually swings his legs toward Regal. His knee is at Regal’s face and Jericho drops down to his back and uses the momentum to drive his knees into Regal’s chin (codebreaker-esque). Regal collapses, and Jericho stands up. Jericho starts to taunt Regal. He stands him up, but Regal is out on his feet. Jericho mocks him, and circles his wobbly body. Jericho gets in his face, and says something. He starts to walk away, but stops suddenly and nails Regal in the face with a superkick. Jericho smiles at the crowd, and performs a quick lionsault, before pinning Regal to retain.
"]Winner: Chris Jericho
Time: 11:32[/CENTER]

Post-match, Jericho takes a mic and says that if Hogan is able to walk by Boston Brawl, he is challenging him to a match. Jericho stops and mentions that Hogan will probably be “grandfathered” into the battle Royal. Jericho says if he has to pick up and drop off Hogan at the nursing home for a match with him, he will. Jericho then cups his hand to his ear, to the sound of boos.

*COMMERCIAL*

*American Dream*

Out comes Dusty Rhodes, the commissioner of WCW. The crowd eats up the new commish, and Rhodes soaks it up.

Dusty Rhodes: “Dubya see dubya, I will make dis shawht, sweet, and to da point! I gots a few announcements for y’all! It seems that Harlem Heat needs an opponent for Boston Brawl, and I have an idea. I see that we have a battle royal at Boston Brawl to determine the Number One Contender for th’ Worl’ title, and I got ta thinkin’. What if we had a battle royal next week on Nitro, and the last two remaining participants will challenge Harlem Heat for the Tag Team Ti-“

*HOOOOOOOOWLLLLLL*

The Steiner Brothers appear on the ramp. Scott has a mic in hand, and he looks pissed.

Scott Steiner: “Hay! What the hell do you think you’re doing? The Steiner Brothers are the best tag team you have, and you’re going to let…. Nobodies face Harlem Heat for OUR titles?”

Rhodes: “eh, Steiner? Shut up, pal. The American Dream is going to come up that ramp and teach you a lesson if you interrupt again. If you want a shot, you gotta earn it!”

Scott Steiner: “And how do we go about doing that?”

Rhodes: “Well, you have to make an impact, do something that gives me no choice but to name you two the number one contenders.”

Steiner: “You want an impact? The Wolfpack always makes an impact!”

The Steiners slowly exit the stage, and Rhodes is applauded for standing up to the Wolfpack. Rhodes tries to quite the crowd and eventually gets back to his run down.

Rhodes: “Where was I? oh… yeah. Next week, we will also find out who Eddie Guerrero is going to face at Boston Brawl for the WCW Cruiserweight title. Juventud Guerrera will go toe-to-toe with The Champion’s nephew, Chavo Guerrero.”

No one seems to care…

Rhodes: “Now, onto these “attacks” going down backstage. I am sick and tired of there never being peace in dubya see dubya. First the en dubya oh, now tha’ Wolfpack, and whatever else is going on in the back. I will be honest wit’ y’all. I don’t see any way, and I means NOOOOOO WAY, Sting or Bret Hart are behind these attacks. I am making the plea to each and every wrestler back there, watch out for yourselves and each other. The last thing I need is for this to continue.”

Rhodes sells frustration to the crowd, he starts to shake his head as he leans on the ropes.

Rhodes: “Lastly, Bret Hart? You wanted a chance to come down here and issue a challenge. Come on down”

*Hitman in the House*

Bret Hart comes to the ring, and he looks intense. He is wearing his ring gear, and tosses his glasses into the crowd, unlike his usual placing them on a child. He grabs a mic.

Bret Hart: “Dusty, I gotta do this, and you might not agree with it. I just can’t sit here and let my name be drug through the mud. Whoever in the back is attacking people, I will take you on. I don’t care if there are 5 of you, I want a shot!”

Rhodes looks concerned but doesn’t speak. He knows that Hart has to do this.

Hart: “I’ve been forced to sit through way too much to keep my mouth shut. I didn’t attack Hogan, and I didn’t set it up to make it look like Sting attacked me. I was attacked, and I think I know WHO it was!”

Rhodes: “What? Who? Why didn’t you speak to me about this backstage? Bret… I don’t think you shou-“

Hart: “Dusty… I told you. I HAVE to do this!”

Hart is almost startled with how mean his voice sounded coming out of his mouth. Hart rubs his throat as he looks at Dusty, who shakes his head in disappointment. Hart regains his focus and looks back toward the TurnerTron.

Hart: “Kevin Nash and the Wolfpack, I know it was you. I know that you are taking orders from those degenerates up north, and I can’t let you keep doing whatev-“

*HOOOOOOOWLL*

Kevin Nash, the Steiners and Curt Hennig appear on the entrance ramp. Nash has a mic in his hand, and is dressed to wrestle.

Kevin Nash: “You can think whatever you want, Bret. You and I have history… going all the way back to the Federation. I don’t have to sit down and let YOU run MY name through the mud. I had nothing to do with those attacks, Hart.”

Hart: “Oh yeah? Prove it.”

Nash: “How about I come down to that ring and kick you ass?”

Hart: “Bring it on, ’Big Daddy Cool’…”

Fifth Match: Bret Hart vs Kevin Nash.
These two know each other well, and have a solid match. Nash works over Hart in a corner, delivering knees to the chest and gut of the Hitman. Hart slides between Nash’s legs and is able to deliver and belly to back suplex. Hart collapses in the center of the ring. The referee starts his count. Around 5, the two stand up. Suddenly, the ringside members of the Wolfpack are all ambushed by two masked men. Both of them are large, in their own ways. One is rather round, but solid as can be, while the other appears to be ripped. The two use lead pipes to take down The Wolfpack, and sprint up the ramp. The two turn back toward the ring, and put a hand over their hearts, and the other hand high in the air.

The two turn around and see Sting has emerged from the backstage area. The two sprint into the stands, and Sting makes his way to the ring, making sure to beat down the Steiners once with his bat, before entering.

Sting points at Nash, and then drops the World Title at his feet, and draws a line on the ground with his baseball bat. Nash fakes like he is going to lunge at Sting, but reconsiders and exits the ring, slowly. Nash never takes his eyes off the World Champion, and the camera zooms in close on Sting’s intense eyes as Nitro goes off the air.