The Wrestling Booking Sheet online newsletter

Issue # 372

Date: Thursday October 28th, 1999 11:02 pm

The Wrestling Booking Sheet

JUSHIN LIGER INTERESTED IN WORKING WCW
Reported by Dave Meltzer at: http://www.eyada.com
Jushin “Thunder” Liger is interested in working in WCW in late
December, ideally against Chris Benoit.

Liger, arguably the top Junior Heavyweight wrestler of the 90’s, has
always matched up very well against “Wild Pegasus” Chris Benoit. Liger
put Benoit over in his recent tour of New Japan and New Japan is
interested in booking a rematch for the 1/4/2000 Tokyo Dome (it will be
WCW’s decision if they will lend Benoit to New Japan for the show).

Liger’s last match in theUnited States was a United States title shot
against Konnan at Slamboree 1996. I’d love to see Liger on Nitro,
though I cringe at the way he may be booked by the new creative team.

BOOKING SHEET LETTER POLICY
The past several weeks we’ve been faced with an embarrassment of riches
when it comes to letters written by our readers. Some of the
developments in the business have inspired passionate responses, many
of which were very well written. Since we are faced with space
constraints it might be a good idea to repeat the guidelines used in
selecting which letters get printed.

First of all, originality is huge. We get so many letters criticizing
the WWF or WCW that they all tend to echo each other. While most of them
present valid points a valid point heard a dozen times loses its
effect. Pick a topic that hasn’t been explored to death and run with
it.

The longer your letter, the better written it has to be. Pick one
subject and stick to it. While your review of your ten favorite/least
favorite angles may have been fun to write it will rarely get printed
here.

As I mentioned before, space is a huge enemy to us. If the newsletter
is sent out with over 23K of data it becomes a download, which we
strive to avoid at all costs. If a letter is on the long side, unless
it’s brilliant it will probably end up being deleted.

One last reminder: please use spell check and proofread your work.
While an occasional spelling mistake is understandable (I’ve been known
to make my share) if it’s overwhelming I won’t take the time to clean
it up. If you care enough about a subject to send in a letter please
take that last step that will make it presentable.

DAVE MELTZER ON EYADA.COM
Most of you have heard of Dave Meltzer & The Wrestling Observer, though
many of you have not been exposed to The Observer (you don’t know what
your missing). Meltzer is also doing a free daily internet radio show,
which can be found at: http://www.eyada.com

The two hour show can be heard live from 6:00 PM-8:00 PM on the East
Coast, and 3:00 PM-5:00 PM on the West Coast. Meltzer & co-host Bryan
Alvarez discuss all of the breaking news stories of the day, and have
had quite a variety of featured guests (highlights include Chris
Benoit, Vince Russo, Terry Funk , & Jim Cornette).

The previous days show is available to listen to at any time; those of
you who really have a deep interest in the inner-workings of wrestling
really do need to check this out! Meltzer is generally considered the
top wrestling journalist in the history of the business (not an
exaggeration, and almost without argument), and you will benefit by
being exposed to his knowledge of the business.
===========================================
WCW THUNDER LIVE FROM:SAN DIEGO CALIFORNIA
By Rick Phelps (wrestleric)

Juventud Guerrera versus Evan Karagias
Sid interjected, said he was undefeated and made an open challenge to
anyone in the back. Chris Benoit accepted. He then destroyed Guerrera
and Karagias.
Winner: No Contest

--Clips from Monday Nitro and discussion of Halloween Havoc took place
throughout the course of the evening.

--The Maestro told Mene Gene that he is the "star of the show."

--Chavo Guerrero Jr. was looking for Goldberg in efforts to get some
"TV time." He searched for most of the evening and said that he would
get himself "over."

The Maestro versus Prince Iaukea
Piano Boy forced the prince to tap out to "the encore."
Winner: The Maestro via submission

Dean Malenko/Perry Saturn w/Shane Douglas versus El Dandy/Silver King
Prior to the bell,Douglas told the Filthy Animals that Torrie was in
good hands. Malenko told Benoit that he would break both of his legs in
their upcoming tournament match on Nitro, while Saturn said that the
Revolution would rule the world. El Dandy tapped out to the Texas
Cloverleaf after being hit with a chain by Malenko.
Winners: The Revolution via submission

--Stevie Ray said he would take care of Curly Bill tonight while Booker
T said they would get their tag team titles back. Curly Bill then told
Gene he would "brand" Stevie Ray and that Curt Hennig sold out by
leaving the West Texas Rednecks.

Stevie Ray w/Booker T versus Curly Bill
After a Harlem sidekick by Booker T, Ray hit the slapjack for the win.
Winner: Stevie Ray via pinfall

Kidman/Eddie Guerrero/Konnan versus Chris Adams/Steve Regal/Dave Taylor
The Filthy Animals were victorious after a frog splash on Dave Taylor.
Winner: The Filthy Animals via pinfall

--Speaking English, Berlyn told Mene Gene that his master plan was in
effect and that one day, everyone would serve him.

Lash Leroux versus Chavo Guerrero Jr.
Once again, Chavo let everyone know that he was looking for Goldberg.
Leroux took the win with the Rajun Cajun.
Winner: Lash Leroux via pinfall

--Kidman's camcorder caught Buff Bagwell and Scotty Riggs having a
conversation.

--The Cat arrived at the arena (in a limo) escorted by a trio of
ladies.

Berlyn w/Bodyguard versus Jerry Flynn w/Jimmy Hart
Berlyn covered for the three count after his bodyguard nailed Flynn
with a stiff shot to the head.
Winner: Berlyn via pinfall

--Sid threw Chavo Jr. through a curtain as Jr. was looking for
Goldberg.

--The Cat (without Sonny Onoo) said he would win the title tournament.

--The Crippler said that Sid has been delusional lately, but he would
bring Vicious back to reality.

Buff Bagwell versus Scotty Riggs
Buff, who appeared to be acting nonchalante and not caring throughout
the match, rolled up Riggs for the win. Mike Tenay pointed out that WCW
did not play his music after he won and Riggs was infuriated with the
referee. Tenay also said that Bagwell was not listening to what the
powers that be wanted. Winner: Buff Bagwell via pinfall

Chris Benoit versus Sid Vicious
Benoit had Vicious in the Crippler Crossface when the Revolution
attacked. Sid then powerbombed the Revolution and the Crippler. A fight
then ensued between the Revolution and the Filthy Animals.
Winner: Chris Benoit via disqualification
===========================================
A FAN OF THE “MALENKO”STYLE
Written by reader: AirVans000

You've never met a Dean Malenko fan at a WCW show? Who all were you
asking? The four year old kids with the Wolfpac
T-shirts? You did make a valid point about how we, or should I say you
Americans need a good storyline to be able to concentrate on anything.

I personally would love a great 45 minute Dean Malenko vs. Juventud
Guerrera match. Ever heard of Toshika Kowada? Of course you haven't!
And wrestling isn't a sport? Tell me then, what is your definition of
the word "sport"? Would you say any recreational activity, i.e. a game
which is played with a competitive nature and often requires dedication
and determination in order to succeed? I didn't think so. But if in fact
you have then you might want to take into consideration that a former
football player named Bill Goldberg tore his abdominal muscle, which
ended his football career. Mick Foley, a professional wrestler, tore
that same muscle and wrestled the next night! If that isn't dedication,
and determination then I don't know what is!

Have you ever wrestled a 45 minute match? Try it sometime, you might
gain a little respect for guys who will go in night after night and
wear themselves out, just so people like you can sit there and say it's
boring and not worth your time. Most of your big time "storyliners"
can't go 25 minutes (granted that is a long time) without becoming
winded. Now that's most, not all. There are a few exceptions, like
Shawn Michaels and Ric Flair. But I guarantee that if Scott Hall did a
45 minute match with a "stunt man" from ECW, he'd be carried out with
an oxygen tank barely gasping the words "Hey yo."
-Mike
===========================================
ANOTHER TAKE ON MALENKO
Written by reader: Bduff01

You might be alone in liking Dean Malenko. If Dean had stayed in the
Cruiserweights maybe I would have liked watching him go up against Rey
Rey. I think the Four Horsemen move was a big mistake. To be honest, I
loved his brief stint in the WWF. Not a
lot of people know he played that masked wrestler...Mini-Vader.
+++++++++++++++++++++
Steve Appy responds:
To give credit where it’s due, that one was pretty funny. Still, I
can’t be alone here, can I? Malenko carries an aura about him that
screams credibility, and I feel that he has a quiet charisma that suits
him well (similar to Arn Anderson, though his interviews don’t
compare). He’s produced far too many great matches for his working
ability to be questioned; these bad feelings for Malenko surprise me.
I always assumed that he had a pretty solid following, and it’s looking
like I may be wrong.
===========================================
KEEP WCW AN ALTERNATIVE
Written by reader: Paul Stefanowicz (pnjstef)

I am a wrestling fan of 20 years, and was born and bred a WWF guy,
being from the Northeast. I do not want to see the WCW mimic the WWF. I
do not watch the current WWF product, but I don't knock those that do.
I just prefer the WCW to stick more toward the traditional wrestling
and not as much soap opera storylines.

I actually enjoyed the Nitros right after Fall Brawl with Flair back in
the picture. I'm not saying he needs to be the center of the show, but
he's good as a part of it, and lends some tradition and dignity to the
WCW. I taped 4 of the 5 Nitros after Fall Brawl for the first time in 5
years. And now...endless footage of people stalking around the hallways
backstage looking to for someone to beat up. Wrestlers parked in front
of TV monitors. Women in long coats with not much underneath. Well, it
may sell - for now. As long as they leave Saturday Night alone.

I'll just say one thing about the WWF. Being a 10-year employee of a
Fortune 500 company, I think that Vince McMahon will learn something
about big business now that he's gone public. Fads don't fly on Wall
Street - and you know people will get tired of seeing Stone Cold's face
everywhere. Yes, Vince has found a way to re-create his group, but no
longer will he be able to bring his company to the brink of bankruptcy
before he does it - a la the 80s after the Rock n Wrestling thing, or a
few years ago.

Stockholder demand growth and consistency or they will jump ship. Yes,
WCW is "public", but is a small part of a big Time Warner corporation.
Wrestling is not a core business there. For the WWF, this should be
interesting.
Best,
Paul
===========================================
THE HYPORCRITICAL WRESTLING FAN
Written by reader: JP0379

I keep reading articles and posts day after day from WCW fans saying
that the WWF copied this idea or that idea, and WWF fans say that the
WCW team copied things from them. PEOPLE, LETS BE HONEST! BOTH
companies have copied ideas from one another. When the nWo proved to be
a ratings boom, next
thing you know the WWF had three or four "factions" of their own.

Before the now there was the Four Horsemen. Give us all a break. Its
not whether or not one copies from another. That’s something that
happens on BOTH sides. The important thing is who does it BETTER.

Secondly, I will never cease to be amazed at how hypocritical some fans
are, ESPECIALLY (and I hate to say this) the WWF fans. Vince is like a
piper leading a bunch of rats to their death. No matter WHAT he does,
his legion of blind followers will defend it. Bischoff wrestles on a
PPV, and the WWF fans (not all, but most) ridicule a front-office
employee wrestling in a match at a major event. Next thing you know,
Vinnie Mac not only wrestles on a PPV, he wins the friggin' match, and
the WWF fans for the most part applaud him!

Then, all of the WWF fans for the longest have been going on and on and
on about how old the main event talent is, such as Hogan, Flair, and
Savage. Lo and behold, Savage is rumored to be jumping back to the WWF,
and BAM! the WWF flunkies are getting excited. On the WCW side, alot
of their fans claimed to be wrestling "purists" who called the WWF
product, which included LOTS of T&A and questionable storylines, trash.

Well, now that Torrie is dressing like a slut and Hall and Nash are
embarrassing themselves by wrestling strippers, why are so many WCW
fans claiming that this is now okay? WHAT HYPOCRITES! ON BOTH SIDES!

I wish ALL fans would become WRESTLING fans, not WCW fans or WWF fans
ONLY. And start calling it like it IS. Even if that means putting
down your favorite federation.
===========================================
THE DEMISE OF A GREAT PRODUCT
Written by reader: E.S. Bravo (midnightrambler)

As I read your newsletter it occurs to me that almost all the letters
written to you or the others at the sheet are junior high school kids.
It is clear that many are probably 12-16 years old at most and are
struggling to appear as though they are adult in their knowledge of
wrestling and the English language.

There are ratings, and there is wrestling. In 1999 these two don't
appear on the same show simultaneously. I have followed pro wrestling
from the time I was younger than these "experts" who write in to your
sheet. As a small boy I remember watching wrestling on TV at 1:30 or
2:00 in the morning on Ch.31 on the uhf dial in The Bronx. A viewer
can enjoy that product, the product of the 70's, 80's or today’s
product.

Reality dictates the latest product to wear the label wrestling, is
nothing of the sort, and fading fast. So I go to my garage and dig out
some old tapes from World Wide Wrestling Federation, NWA, AWA, WCCW,
Japanese by the bunch, Mid-South, UWF, many of the long gone indies,
FCW, LPWA, GWF, CWA and on, and on. To me, its a sad time for a
WRESTLING FAN. Children have a very short attention span. So the long
drawn out demise of wrestling is upon us.
Thank you for the good work,
Sincerely,
E.S. Bravo
===========================================
The staff of The Wrestling Booking Sheet
Editor: Steve Appy
Columnist:Mark George
Columnist: SamJerry
Columnist: Fritz Capp
Columnist: Rick Phelps
Columnist: Cindy Barnes
Columnist: Josh Hewitt
Columnist: Swami
Columnist: Tom Misnik
Columnist: Nate Pelley Columnist: Robert Troy (Osiris) Columnist: Tom Kirkbride Columnist: Ryan S. Oaks Columnist: Darren Kramer

Any submissions sent in by readers or columnists become the property of The Wrestling Booking Sheet, and are subject to editing due to grammar, spelling, or content. Any information taken from The Wrestling Booking Sheet must be credited properly, with our E-Mail address listed. We have no problem if you want to use our stuff; just credit it properly.

"When you're young and you pick up a guitar, it feels so powerful. It feels like you pulled the sword from the stone. I used to believe that it could save the world. But I don't really believe that anymore." - Bruce Springsteen

"The greatest challenge of adulthood is holding on to your idealism after you lose your innocence and believing in the power of the human spirit after you come crashing into the limits of the real adult world." - Bruce Springsteen