Malibu's NWA-TNA Diary

[zackmalibu]

INCIDENT~! Shane Douglas has suffered an injury!

[zackmalibu]

TNA on PPV:March 24, 2004

A smirking CHRISTOPHER DANIELS welcomes us to the show. He hates to be the bearer of bad news...which is why he doesn't have any for us. See, it looks like the TNA Troubleshooter SHANE DOUGLAS got taken out, and nobody knows who or why? Was it Daniels? "Me? No no no. Mr. Douglas was VERY generous, leaving me a title shot tonight in his absence. So, Mr. American Dragon. Mr. Bryan Danielson. The X Division Champion. The success story, a young man plying his trade from coast to coast, continent to continent, tonight you WILL fall at the hands of the Fallen Angel. I am the better wrestler, hell, I am the better MAN, you snot nosed punk. You want to be the best someday? You have to fight the best, and it doesn't get any better than Christopher Daniels."

OVERALL RATING: 79%

ACE STEEL vs. PSYCHOSIS

A rematch from two weeks ago sees the motivated Steel once again take a beating from Psychosis, but manage to fire back on the unstable luchadore. Steel sets up for the Twist of Kain, but just before he can hit it, KID KASH hits the ring and jumps him! Referee Rudy Charles calls for the bell immediately, as Kash puts the boots to Steel. Psychosis pulls himself up in the corner, watching as Kash sets Steel up for his double underhook piledriver...and Psychosis comes over and assists, hitting a spiked version of the move on Steel! Kash and Psychosis just stare at each other, and then both look down at Steel before they leave together. Steel is down and out, thanks to the two on one assault!

***3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 93%
CROWD REACTION: 61%
OVERALL RATING: 69%

ERIK WATTS and AMERICA'S MOST WANTED are backstage, laughing and enjoying some beers. Shane Douglas isn't here tonight, and they don't know when he's coming back. So tonight, it's a bit of a cowboy party. "Terry Funk, you washed up workhorse, someone needs to take you out back and put a bullet in you. You might have gotten a stay of execution thanks to your buddy Raven, but now you're both in our sights. Tonight, we'll show you why we're America's Most Wanted, and TNA's most dangerous tag team."

OVERALL RATING: 81%

BRIAN KENDRICK, SHARK BOY, MARK and JAY BRISCOE vs. JASON JETT, MICHAEL SHANE, and the BACKSEAT BOYZ

An adrenaline rush of an eight man tag, with plenty of bad blood to be shared. The Briscoes and The BSB tear into each other with reckless abandon, but it's Kendrick who gets a bit of revenge tonight. Once again, Michael Shane stays far, far away from the former WWE supserstar, but Shane's cohort Jett takes the brunt of Kendrick's frustration! A tiger suplex drops Jett right on his head, and after he's sent to the corner Kendrick charges with a running kneelift, pulls him out, and hits Sliced Bread #2 for the win! The crowd is ecstatic with the victory, but Shane simply jumps off the apron and points at Kendrick, telling him that "it's not over".

**3/4
MATCH QUALITY: 83%
CROWD REACTION: 68%
OVERALL RATING: 67%

DON CALLIS and AJ STYLES are happily conversing backstage (sense a theme here, tonight?) Looks like Shane Douglas went down without throwing any roadblocks in AJ's way, so he's got the night off. He's already humbled his top contender, JERRY LYNN, and sent him to the back of the line. He was worried about Christopher Daniels after what happened last week, but people make mistakes, and Daniels has the X Title to worry about tonight. AJ's got the night off, but he's going to stick around to watch Lynn get his head kicked off by Low Ki.

OVERALL RATING: 73%

NWA X TITLE: BRYAN DANIELSON vs. CHRISTOPHER DANIELS

Daniels gets his shot at the gold, and makes the most of the effort. This match sees the crowd on their feet at various points, as both men bring an adrenaline rush to the Asylum crowd with their efforts. Danielson hooks Daniels for a butterfly suplex, but Daniels drops to his knees and hits a low blow, then cradles Danielson! Hooking the tights for added leverage, Daniels manages to hold the stunned Dragon down for the three count! Christopher Daniels is your NEW X Division Champion, and immediately grabs the belt from the referee, throwing an obnoxious, overexaggerated celebration. One has to wonder...is this what Shane Douglas was hoping to see if he were here tonight?

****3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 100%
CROWD REACTION: 86%
OVERALL RATING: 83%

The NWA X Title has gained in image.

JERRY LYNN vs. LOW KI
Ki hasn't had much luck lately, and challenged Lynn tonight, figuring he could put him out of commission and perhaps get a title shot from Styles out of it. Lynn, as always, is underestimated by his rival, and retaliates against Ki's best efforts. Exciting finish as Lynn counters a Doctor Bomb with a huracanrana, then grabs Ki and stuffs him into position for the Cradle Piledriver, then drops him on his head for the win!

****1/4
MATCH QUALITY: 97%
CROWD REACTION: 75%
OVERALL RATING: 77%

RAVEN and TERRY FUNK are backstage, preparing for their match tonight. Tonight, they've got D LO BROWN on their side, while AMW have JEFF JARRETT. "It doesn't matter how many men, women, or children are thrown into the mix. At it's core, this is about Storm and Harris, and Funk and Raven. You want to take about being the most dangerous, AMW? Everyone's idea of danger is different. Everyone believes different things. Do you really believe you're that dangerous, or is it just another empty threat? A way to throw us off our game? Because I am a man who has already loved and lost. Terry Funk, he's a man who will admit he's seen better days. Men with nothing left to lose...they're the most dangerous of all. Quote the Raven...nevermore."

OVERALL RATING: 91%


D LO BROWN, TERRY FUNK, and RAVEN vs. AMERICA'S MOST WANTED and JEFF JARRETT

The alliance between Funk and Raven, shaky as it may be, grows even shakier when D Lo Brown is added to the mix. Unsure of how to deal with his...eccentric partners, D Lo focuses more on getting his hands on Jeff Jarrett and evening the odds for the two extremists. Funk and Raven continue the war with America's Most Wanted, but it's D Lo who falls to treachery, as Jarrett blind tags himself in after D Lo had hitten a neckbreaker on Storm, and hits The Stroke! D Lo is stunned enough to take the fall, and Funk can't hit the ring in time to break up the pin. AMW and Jarrett pull a fast one on their rivals, and celebrate on the ramp. Without Shane Douglas to troubleshoot, are they one step closer to turning TNA into their playground?

*1/4MATCH QUALITY: 67%
CROWD REACTION: 73%
OVERALL RATING: 63%

OVERALL SHOW RATING: 74% (stupid shows that don't click)


We got a 0.21 buy rate for 'TNA on PPV'!
The attendance was 3401 people.
We made $525000 from pay-per-view revenue.
We made $44213 from ticket sales.

[zackmalibu]

TNA on PPV: March 31, 2004

The crowd is hot as we venture into the Asylum for another night of NWA-TNA action, and things get even hotter when ALEXIS LAREE skips down to the ring! A former member of Raven's "Gathering", Alexis is here to say that she's BACK in TNA, and she will be back where she belongs from now on...alongside Raven, and making sure that he and Terry Funk don't fall victim to the numbers game from jerks like AMW and Jeff Jarrett anymore. JEFF JARRETT comes out to the ramp chuckling, asking if Alexis is serious. "YOU? We're supposed to be scared of YOU? Honey, you're walkin' into a war zone...but you're dressed for the street corner. So why don't you take your little groupie ass and get it out of MY ring, before bad things happen. Because I'm sure it won't be the first time you were a victim of the numbers game, if you catch my..."

Jarrett, in the ring at this point, gets the taste slapped out of his mouth by Alexis! Fuming, Jarrett grabs her by the hair...but RAVEN runs down the ramp, and Jarrett bails before any contact is made! Alexis Laree made a stand tonight, and she is back alongside her mentor!

OVERALL RATING: 84%

Alexis Laree's turn was completed, and she is now a face. Alexis Laree gained overness from this turn. Alexis Laree debuted her new gimmick (girl power) to a negative response. Alexis Laree gained overness from this segment.

ACE STEEL vs. KID KASH

These two have had their problems recently, which have also extended to include luchadores Shocker and Psychosis. Last week, Kash interjected himself in the Steel/Psychosis match, and the two hit a Spike Underhook Piledriver. Steel looks to be recovered, and a good amount of brawling is mixed in with the technical talent of Steel and the aerial assault of Kash. After dropped Kash with a bulldog and getting a two count, Steel gets up to see PSYCHOSIS on the ring apron, and takes a swing at him...but Psychosis jumps off the apron, bringing Steel's throat down on the top rope! Steel staggers back, trying to catch his breath, and Kash swings him around...CHA CHING! The Double Underhook Piledriver once again drops Ace Steel on his head, and Kash gets the academic pinfall. Psychosis, smiling, gets into the ring, but before any damage is done, SHOCKER comes running down with a chair, and clears the ring! Kash and Psychosis stand at ringside as the popular luchadore and the referee both check on Steel, who still can't breath well...and that's when they hit the ring once again! Kash and Psychosis beat down Shocker as well, and HE is left laying with a Spike Underhook Piledriver, sprawled out on the mat next to Ace Steel.

***3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 93%
CROWD REACTION: 67%
OVERALL RATING: 80%

Ace Steel is losing overness because of his weak gimmick.

DON CALLIS and AJ STYLES are backstage. AJ is standing there, looking smug, while Callis takes a handkerchief and polishes the World Title as it rests on AJ's shoulders. It seems that despite his best efforts to take the World Title from AJ, that JERRY LYNN has hurt himself, and won't be back for a while. How tragic that both he and SHANE DOUGLAS have both been injured in such a short amount of time. Oh well, out of sight, out of mind. Now Jerry Lynn will have to start all over again if he ever thinks he'll get back in the ring with AJ. Now, onto tonight. What is the Board of Directors smoking when they sign BRYAN DANIELSON to take on AJ tonight? The guy that lost his title last week gets to challenge for the World Title tonight? "Bryan Danielson, you call yourself the American Dragon, but AJ Styles is the one that's on fire. Tonight, I'm going to show the world that you're not the best...you're just blowing smoke."

OVERALL RATING: 73%

BRIAN KENDRICK vs. MICHAEL SHANE

After weeks of targeting Kendrick, motivated by sheer jealousy, Shane is put in the ring with him. Both men show that they know each other so well, as move after move is countered. In the end, Kendrick has a worn down Shane set up for Sliced Bread #2, but Shane grabs a rear waistlock and runs Kendrick chest first into the turnbuckles, knocking the wind out of him! Shane rolls through, into a cradle...and holds onto Kendrick's tights for added leverage! As soon as ref's hand drops for the third time, Shane lets go, and Kendrick sits up. Shane is out of the ring immediately, and Kendrick's attempt at a chase is thwarted by the referee. Shane points to his head, mocking Kendrick that he's the smarter one. That may not be the case, because Shane's tactics tonight may set up his downfall in the future.

**3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 82%
CROWD REACTION: 66%
OVERALL RATING: 74%

Confetti falls from the ceiling, and celebratory dance music plays, as CHRISTOPHER DANIELS, dressed in a three piece suit, comes out holding the X Division Title over his head. Daniels is all smiles, and even goes to slap some hands on the way to the ring, but fans refuse, not enjoying the appearance of the Fallen Angel. "C'mon, it's a PARTY, people. We are going to drink, we are going to dance, we are going to have some fun tonight! I, Christopher Daniels, the Fallen Angel, am now YOUR X Division Champion! I am YOUR GUY!" The crowd boos loudly, not agreeing with Daniels' statement. "I beat the best because I AM the best! Bryan Danielson is a flash in the pan. I mean who did he beat, huh? Who did he ever beat?" LOW KI comes out, and Daniels is all smiles, as his Triple X tag partner joins him in the ring...however Low Ki is dressed for combat, not celebrating. Daniels goes to hug him, but Low Ki snatches the mic from him. "Bryan Danielson beat me. So what are you saying, Chris? Are you saying that you're better than me?" Daniels gulps. "I didn't mean anything by it!"

"You know, Chris, you think this is all about you, don't you. Even with Triple X, you just had to pull rank, and try to be team captain. Now you want to say I'm a nobody? That Bryan Danielson beat nobody? He beat you AND he beat me, so does that mean you're a nobody too?"

"No, I...c'mon Ki, I...we're friends!"

"Actually, Chris...we're not!"

With that, Low Ki hits a sweep kick that knocks Daniels on his ass, and sends the X Title flying! Daniels rolls away and goes out to the floor, taking his jacket off and throwing it on the ground. "You want to do this? Let's do this!" A referee comes to ringside, and Daniels takes off his tie, vest, and shirts. Clad in dress pants, Daniels gets back in the ring, and it looks like we have ourselves the Fallen Angel's first title defense!

OVERALL RATING: 75%. Low Ki's turn was completed, and he's now a face. Low Ki gained overness from this turn.

NWA X TITLE: CHRISTOPHER DANIELS vs. LOW KI

Daniels wrestles in his dress pants, but that doesn't stop him from standing toe to toe with his former partner. Like Kendrick and Shane earlier, Daniels and Ki are able to counter many of the others attempts. Ki finally manages to get the advantage, and hits a handspring elbow on Daniels, then pulls him out of the corner and goes for a Tornado DDT...but Daniels blocks it and shoves Ki off of him! Ki charges, but catches a boot to the gut, then gets hooked and planted with the Angels Wings! Christopher Daniels covers, and counts along with the ref...and three seconds later he's officially made his first successful title defense, at the expense of an old friend.
****3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 100%
CROWD REACTION: 82%
OVERALL RATING: 91%


NWA WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES: AMERICA'S MOST WANTED (Chris Harris and James Storm) (c) vs. RAVEN and TERRY FUNK

The war continues between these four men, and the tag titles are at stake. Once again, pure chaos erupts, as the match spills out of the ring at several points, and both teams nearly DQ themselves at other points. Erik Watts also interjects himself a few times, such as pulling the referee out of the match just as Raven hits the EvenflowDDT on Chris Harris! The referee chastises Watts, and while he's busy with him, Storm clotheslines Funk over the ropes, sending them both out to the floor! Raven hooks Harris for another DDT, but Watts still has the ref, and this allows Jarrett to hit the ring and drop Raven with a chairshot to the head! Jarrett puts Harris on top and leaves the ring, and Watts tells the ref to go count! The dirty work done, Harris gets the fall on Raven, thanks to both Watts and Jarrett! As AMW's music plays to signal them as the winners, the four heels gather in the ring. Storm has Funk by the head, and Jarrett cocks the chair in his hand...but ALEXIS LAREE and D LO BROWN hit the ring with chairs of their own! After a brief standoff with Alexis daring Jarrett to take a swing, Jarrett drops his chair and tells everyone to back off, not wanting to deal with his rival Brown or Raven's companion. Jarrett's crew exit, with threats being issued from both sides. Alexis tends to Raven, who is a bloody mess, but is able to get to his feet to a big crowd pop.
**

MATCH QUALITY: 71%
CROWD REACTION: 85%
OVERALL RATING: 80%


The NWA World Tag Team Titles have gained in image.

Backstage, KID KASH and PSYCHOSIS are laughing about their earlier onslaught on ACE STEEL and SHOCKER, when all of a sudden an even louder laugh, more of a sadistic cackle, is heard. The laugh belongs to JAMES MITCHELL, who makes the two men part so that he can stand between them.

"It would appear that two of TNA's most talented have been having bad days recently. It seemed that they were bordering on a mental break, walking that fine line between normalcy and insanity. These two men here were ready to snap, and oh how I loved it! Because when you take a man like this, and called him "Kid", what do you expect? This is a MAN. This is not a child. This is someone who has been mistreated by the powers that be, and by society at large. This man, Psychosis, an aerial daredevil that doesn't care if he hurts himself, as long as he hurts someone else even more. I saw the two of them on the brink, and now I've taught them to channel it. I've taught them to bask in their manic ways. They will embrace the insanity, and they will allow me to take hold of this company once and for all. Kash and Psychosis, now under my control! They are my men, my Devil's Duo, if you will, and TNA? You've been warned. Hahahahahaha!"

OVERALL RATING: 72%. James Mitchell gained overness from this segment.

NWA WORLD TITLE: AJ STYLES (c) vs. BRYAN DANIELSON

AJ doesn't take Danielson seriously at first, until a high dropkick catches AJ right on the jaw, and sends him flying out of the ring. Callis motivates AJ to teach Danielson a lesson, but it's the former X champ that puts on a clinic, dropping AJ with a variety of suplexes! AJ dodges a slam attempt and spins Danielson around, taking him over with a huracanrana, but as AJ gloats, Danielson gets up and hits a running Yakuza kick to drop the champion! AJ can't seem to keep up with the American Dragon, and after Danielson hits a facebuster, he goes for the Cattle Mutilation...but the bell rings before he can apply the move! The match has gone to the time limit! Callis reaches into the ring and pulls AJ out, handing him the World Title and telling him "you're still the champ!" AJ hugs his belt, and Danielson stands in the ring. He motions for AJ to get in the ring and shake his hand, proud of himself that he could take the World Champion to the limit. AJ gets up on the apron...then SPITS at Danielson and tells him to go to hell! Danielson just stands there, smirking, as AJ backs up the ramp with Callis rubbing his shoulders, holding the World Title up high, as we go off the air.

***3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 91%
CROWD REACTION: 79%
OVERALL RATING: 85%

The NWA World Title has gained in image.

OVERALL SHOW RATING: 79%

We got a 0.22 buy rate for 'TNA on PPV'!
The attendance was 3464 people.
We made $550000 from pay-per-view revenue.
We made $45032 from ticket sales.

[zackmalibu]

TNA on PPV: April 7, 2004

The show opens with a rather shocking surprise...the bearded, smiling face of...VINCE RUSSO!

"Just what am I doing back here, tonight, in NWA-TNA? Well...I'm the man in charge! You see, "The Franchise" ain't comin' back anytime soon, and TNA was looking for an interim troubleshooter...so guess who got the job? Big Daddy Jarrett even signed off on it. So for all my fans, and for all my haters, Vince Russo is BACK. Enjoy your night...I know I will!"

OVERALL RATING: 72%

ACE STEEL and SHOCKER vs. THE DEVIL'S DUO (Kash and Psychosis w/ Father James Mitchell)

The newly formed team of Kash and Psychosis, accompanied by the sinister James Mitchell, do battle with the two men who have driven them to their breaking points. Steel and Shocker put up a worthy fight, but the newly motivated Kash and Psychosis overwhelm their rivals, utilizing Mitchell's guidance and their abilities to stay one up on Steel. Eventually, the makeshift team of Steel and Shocker fall victim to the lethal combination of Kash's double underhook piledriver and Psychosis' guillotine legdrop, which Tenay remarks is "Hell On Earth", and Kash gets the pin.

**3/4MATCH QUALITY: 83%
CROWD REACTION: 70%
OVERALL REACTION: 76%

Ace Steel debuted his new gimmick (dude). It got a positive response.



BRIAN KENDRICK vs. JASON JETT

Kendrick moves on from the annoyance of MICHAEL SHANE tonight, taking on wrestling's self proclaimed "Best Kept Secret". Kendrick, worked up from Shane cheating to beat him, is more than Jett can handle. Kendrick brings Jett to his feet and goes to send him to the ropes, but it's reversed...and SHANE hits ringside, yanking Kendrick's feet out from under him! Kendrick lands face first, and gets up, stunned...and walks right into Jett's release suplex, now dubbed the "Easy Money" as a homage to his previous alias, for the victory. Shane applauds the victory, and gets in the ring. He stands over Kendrick, slapping the back of his head, and Jett calls for Shane to bring him up. Just as they're about to lay into Kendrick, SHARK BOY'S music hits, and a shocked Jett and Shane back off as Shark Boy hits the ring, standing between them and Kendrick! Jett and Shane exit, while Shark Boy brings Kendrick to his feet, much to the delight of the fans.

***1/2
MATCH QUALITY: 90%
CROWD REACTION: 71%
OVERALL RATING: 80%


D LO BROWN, scheduled for a rematch tonight with JEFF JARRETT, is in his locker room getting ready, when the door bursts open...and Jarrett, CHRIS HARRIS, and JAMES STORM pile into the room and start beating him down! AMW do most of the dirty work, and they slam the locker door on D Lo's neck multiple times, and leave him laying. D Lo Brown is down, the third superstar to go down to injury in recent weeks...but does this mean Jarrett's crew were behind the other ones?

OVERALL RATING: 68%. Jeff Jarrett lost overness from this segment.

NO HOLDS BARRED: THE BRISCOE BROTHERS (w/ COACH BILL ALFONSO) vs. THE BACKSEAT BOYZ

A last minute "tweak" by Vince Russo sees this rematch between two warring teams be given the No Holds Barred stipulation. The Briscoes are totally unprepared, simply wanting to outwrestle their opponents, but the Boyz come out swinging with plunder right off the bat. Mark Briscoe is taken out early, hit over the head with a trash can lid and splashed through a table by Kashmere. Jay goes at it alone, and survives against the underhanded tactics of Acid and Kashmere, but when Kashmere is able to duck a flying cross body from the top rope, the BSB pick him up and plant him with the T-Gimmick for the pin!

****3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 100%
CROWD REACTION: 78%
OVERALL RATING: 89%

RAVEN is backstage with ALEXIS LAREE and TERRY FUNK. "America's Most Wanted, it seems that the games you're playing may not be games you're cut out for. Brutality, dished out at the will of Jeff Jarrett. World Tag Team Champions being turned into hitmen. How long until the dirty work, until putting Jarrett's blood on your hands distracts you from us? Are you truly committed to the cause? Truly intent on eliminating the Hardcore Legend from wrestling? Intent on making my life a living hell? Because we are survivors. We have bled out, we have broken bones, and we have been through more of a hell than you can possibly imagine. Tonight, divide and conquer is the mentality, but elimination is the goal. Chris Harris, James Storm, tonight the cold reality of what you've gotten yourselves into is going to hit you right in the face. Quote the Raven, nevermore."

OVERALL RATING: 97%. Raven gained overness from this segment.

RAVEN vs. CHRIS HARRIS

As Raven said, divide and conquer is the name of the game, as the World Tag Team Champions are in solo action against their rivals tonight. The typical brawl that you'd expect from these two, with Harris kicking out of a piledriver and Raven kicking out of a sitout powerbomb. Once again, Harris seems overwhelmed by the manipulations of Raven, and finds himself on the floor, getting Russian legsweeped into the guardrail! Raven shoves Harris back into the ring, but before he can enter JAMES STORM hits ringside and posts Raven, then grabs his limp body and throws it back in! TERRY FUNK charges out, but a brawl with Storm cuts him off from helping Raven out, and Harris gets the victory! Storm and Funk continue brawling, and that's when Russo comes out onto the ramp, announcing that the Storm/Funk match will not only happen now, but he's sweetening the pot...TEXAS DEATH MATCH, RIGHT NOW!

*1/2

MATCH QUALITY: 66%
CROWD REACTION: 84%
OVERALL RATING: 78%

Chris Harris gained overness from this match.

TEXAS DEATH MATCH: TERRY FUNK vs. JAMES STORM

The brawl continues, and even the referee succumbs to the carnage, as Funk ducks a superkick and the ref takes it on the chin! Plunder gets used generously, and several times in the match the crowd thinks it's over, as Funk is pinned after a Death Valley Driver, but gets up by six, and Storm is back suplexed off the apron through a table, but gets up by seven. The chaos is eventually contained in the ring again, and Storm takes a chair and beats down the back of Funk. Storm then piles up a few chairs and takes Funk to the corner...AND POWERSLAMS HIIM OFF THE MIDDLE ROPE ONTO THE PILE OF CHAIRS! Both men are laid out, but Storm struggles to get up with the aid of the ropes...and Funk, screaming in agony about his back, can't answer the ten count. James Storm beats Terry Funk, and AMW has a clean sweep against their rivals tonight.

*3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 69%
CROWD REACTION: 80%
OVERALL RATING: 76%

BRYAN DANIELSON and LOW KI vs. NWA X CHAMPION CHRISTOPHER DANIELS and NWA WORLD CHAMPION AJ STYLES (w/ DON CALLIS)

The former X Champion and the former partner of Christopher Daniels team up to take on the two current reigning singles champions in TNA. Styles has had his troubles with Jerry Lynn put to the side due to Lynn's mysterious sidelining, but he and Daniels have not exactly been on the same page recently. A simply amazing match that is as different from the earlier brawls as can be. Both champions show why they are champions, though the duo of Danielson and Ki work better together than they expected. As you would think, it breaks down into four man carnage, with Danielson and Styles as the legal men. The former Triple X tandem face off, and when Daniels tosses Ki out of the ring, he's sent flying through the ropes when Danielson hits a hard running dropkick! Danielson turns around, right into a STYLES CLASH...but Danielson dodges it by backdropping him, hits an immediate Dragon Suplex...then locks on Cattle Mutilation! Callis freaks out at ringside, and AJ tries to hang on...BUT TAPS! HE TAPS! The World Champion has just tapped out to the American Dragon!

****3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 100%
CROWD REACTION: 80%
OVERALL RATING: 90%

OVERALL SHOW RATING: 82%

We got a 0.21 buy rate for 'TNA on PPV'!
The attendance was 3433 people.
We made $525000 from pay-per-view revenue.
We made $44629 from ticket sales.

Kendrick and Acid want to be moved up the card, I overused James Storm at the last show, and Ki and Danielson work well together as a team.

[zackmalibu]

TNA on PPV: April 14th, 2004

JEFF JARRETT welcomes us to the show, talking about the events of last week. He's so happy that VINCE RUSSO has been made the interim TNA Troubleshooter in Shane Douglas' absence, and his daddy, Jerry Jarrett, finally made a good decision. However, there is another reason he's out there...

"A lot of you people have been blaming me for the recent attacks on people. I can promise you, I swear on my life, that I had nothing to do with the attacks on Jerry Lynn and Shane Douglas. As for D Lo Brown last week, you people all saw that I was provoked, and that James Storm and Chris Harris had to jump in to save me from that no good street trash! I did what I had to do to protect myself, and I..."

Suddenly, Jarrett is jumped from behind by someone, and the crowd roars as this person hammers on Jarrett's back. They tear Jarrett's shirt off and start choking him with it! Jarrett tries to crawl away, but this person brings Jeff Jarrett up into a torture rack position...THEN DROPS JEFF JARRETT WITH A BURNING HAMMER~! Jeff Jarrett is laid out in the middle of this ring, and this big individual exits through the crowd, with TNA security in hot pursuit!

OVERALL RATING: 78%. (person) debuted their new gimmick, it got a positive response. (person) gained overness from this segment.

SHARK BOY vs. MICHAEL SHANE

Jeff Jarrett is still being helped to the back as Shane and TRACI BROOKS make their entrance, with Mike Tenay mentioning that he's "seen that man before, but what does he want with Jeff Jarrett?" Tenay also mentions that Jarrett mentioned Vince Russo's hiring as the interim troubleshooter, but that Jerry Jarrett is swearing that he did not authorize it, and an investigation is ongoing as to why Vince Russo is back in TNA. As for the match, this is a result of Shark Boy saving Brian Kendrick from the assault of the self-proclaimed "Glory Boys" of Shane and JASON JETT last week. The crowd is firmly behind Sharky, but Shane dodges a splash in the corner, then turns Shark Boy's mask around, making him blind, and hits Sweet Shane Music on him for the pin! Jett hops in the ring to celebrate, and after hugging his ally, starts putting the boots to Shark Boy! The crowd boos loudly, but BRIAN KENDRICK hits the ring to make the save! Shane and Jett jump out of the ring, and Kendrick asks for the mic, saying that now the odds are even, so how about Jett gets back in the ring and they settle their business from last week, one on one!

***

MATCH QUALITY: 85%
CROWD REACTION: 69%
OVERALL RATING: 77%

BRIAN KENDRICK vs. JASON JETT

Jett reluctantly gets up on the apron, and referee Mike Posey stays in the ring, calling for the bell. Before Kendrick and Jett lock up, Posey also orders Shane, Traci, and Shark Boy to the back, so that this match can take place as Kendrick requested...one on one! Both men come out with guns blazing, and Kendrick is able to counter Jett's best efforts. Jett goes for a German suplex, but Kendrick floats over and lands on his feet, then shoves Jett into the corner. Jett staggers back, and Kendrick hooks his head...SLICED BREAD #2! Kendrick pins Jett and gets the three, and while the crowd rejoices, Michael Shane appears on the ramp looking at the ring, a scowl stretched across his face.

***1/4

MATCH QUALITY: 88%
CROWD REACTION: 69%
OVERALL RATING: 78%

Brian Kendrick debuted his new gimmick (man on a mission) to a negative response. Brian Kendrick gained overness from this match.

ERIK WATTS and AMERICA'S MOST WANTED are backstage, extremely angry. They don't know who that guy was that took out Jarrett, but they know it has to be because of RAVEN and TERRY FUNK. "You two clowns think that you can just bring any of your skid row buddies to TNA? This is a company with CLASS, boys, represented by these two gentlemen, the best damn tag team in the world today. There's no doubt that Jeff Jarrett's gonna have your asses for what you did, but tonight, we're gonna get a little payback of our own. We don't just have you in the ring tonight, but we got you in a fifteen foot high STEEL CAGE, haha! It's time to send you two back to the Island of Misfit Toys where you came from!"

OVERALL RATING: 77%

LADDER MATCH: THE BRISCOE BROTHERS vs. BACKSEAT BOYZ

Tenay announces that the NWA Board of Directors have been highly impressed with both of these teams recently, and decided to reward the winners of this match with a title shot against the World Tag Team Champions America's Most Wanted. The contract hangs high above the ring, and once again these young men put on an instant classic, with high impact moves and a spectacular dive by Jay Briscoe, diving off the ladder with a double clothesline on both Kashmere and Acid! Mark picks Acid up and hits a Cutthroat Suplex on the ladder, while Jay pushes the ladder with Kashmere on it over, causing Johnny K to land on the top rope crotch first and then fall out of the ring! The Briscoes climb the ladder and grab the contract to the crowd's delight, and we have NEW number one contenders to the World Tag Team Titles!

****3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 100%
CROWD REACTION: 82%
OVERALL RATING: 91%

All four men gained overness from this feud ending.

An irate VINCE RUSSO storms out to the ring, unannounced, as the TNA staff clean up the carnage left from the ladder match. The crowd is not receptive to the "New Yawker's" appearance, but he's here nonetheless, and has a mic.

"I want to know one thing...who in the HELL does this guy who attacked Jeff Jarrett think he is? I mean, I know you people don't respect me, and personally I could give a shit less. But one of you jumped the rail and you did it on MY watch, and you did it to one of the best professional wrestlers living and breathing today. You did it to one of my friends, and if that guy can hear me, I hope that he..."

Just then, the crowd buzzes, as once again, this mystery man appears in a section of the crowd. The people part as he walks over and hops the rail, and instantly TNA security come out, but Russo tells them to stand tall, and invites the guy in the ring.

"Look at this guy. Big, bruiser, bouncer type of badass, are you? And you think you can do it on my watch? Just who the hell do you think you are!?"

The big guy snatches the mic from Russo, and speaks.

"Who am I? I'm Dan Maff. And D Lo Brown is a friend of mine."

Russo gulps.

"I've been watchin' my boy D Lo the past few weeks, since he came back, and it looks like he rubbed some of your boys the wrong way. Now, D Lo's like me, he comes from the streets, and you, Vince Russo, you're a New York boy too. So what Jeff Jarrett got was a receipt. Him and his boys took out one of my best friends. They don't know if D Lo is ever gonna be able to wrestle again, so now I'M here for payback."

Russo chuckles.

"Dan Maff? DAN MAFF? I don't know who the hell you are, I ain't ever seen you before, and I guarantee that I won't ever have to see you again, because as long as I'm in charge your ass will NEVER set foot in a TNA ring. Now get the hell out of my sight you street trash."

With that, Russo SPITS at Dan Maff, who just looks down at the small puddle that's on his shirt. Russo goes to turn away, but Maff spins him around and LEVELS him with a short arm lariat to a huge pop! Security instantly rushes the ring and pulls Maff back as he screams at Russo, telling him "this ain't over!" as he's dragged away!

OVERALL RATING: 68%

Vince Russo lost overness from this segment.

DON CALLIS and AJ STYLES are backstage, sitting is disbelief at the night's events. AJ and Callis debate with each other, wondering aloud if Maff is the one to blame about taking Shane Douglas and Jerry Lynn out too.

"Ever since Jerry Jarrett announced he was making changes around here, this place has become absolute chaos. You know what they say about fixing things that ain't broke. The only constant, the only truth in this company is that AJ Styles is the World Heavyweight Champion, the greatest this company has ever seen. Jerry Lynn, he can't walk to the corner store without tearing a muscle. Bryan Danielson? He's not focused enough. He's got too much on his plate. Christopher Daniels? Sure, we had a little snafu, but now he's got the X Title. There's nobody, NOBODY on the level of AJ Styles, and if you think there is, bring them on, and I'll prove you wrong.

OVERALL RATING: 74%

STEEL CAGE MATCH for the NWA WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES: AMERICA'S MOST WANTED vs. RAVEN and TERRY FUNK

Russo announced a rematch for these teams tonight, but it was the Board of Directors, who are now investigating the supposed "signing" of Russo by Jerry Jarrett, that ruled the contest would be for the titles, and would be contested inside a steel cage to prevent the interference of Erik Watts, Jeff Jarrett, or anyone else involved with their crew. The steel cage comes into play multiple times, as all four men shed blood and use the cage walls to their advantage. A great spot sees Terry Funk piledrive James Storm, and Raven hits his trademark drop toehold on Chris Harris, causing Harris to fall into a splash on his partner, but it only gets two. The finish sees Storm try to climb up the cage wall, but Funk pulls him down and then throws him headfirst into the cage, while Raven slips out of a Harris suplex. Together, the Hardcore Legend and the popular anti-hero hit DDT's on the tag team champions...and three seconds later we have NEW NWA WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS! Raven and Terry Funk, two men who not long ago were feuding for championship gold, now hold it together. Each man takes a tag belt and climbs up on the cage, with Raven hitting his trademark pose and Funk raising his belt up high.

*MATCH QUALITY: 62%
CROWD REACTION: 84%
OVERALL RATING: 77%

Terry Funk, Raven, Chris Harris, and James Storm all gained overness from this feud ending. The NWA World Tag Team Titles have gained in image.



ALEXIS LAREE is shown backstage, watching on a montior, smiling and clapping. All of a sudden she feels like someone is behind her, and it's JEFF JARRETT, bruised up from earlier this evening.

"I think you and I need to have a lil' talk, Alexis."

With that, Jarrett scoops up Alexis Laree and dumps her into a waiting car, then climbs into the backseat with her. Jarrett pulls the door shut and the car peels out of the parking lot as this week's edition of TNA goes off the air.

OVERALL RATING: 81%

Alexis Laree gained overness from this segment.

OVERALL SHOW RATING: 78%

We got a 0.20 buy rate for 'TNA on PPV'!
The attendance was 3456 people.
We made $500000 from pay-per-view revenue.
We made $44928 from ticket sales.

[zackmalibu]

TNA on PPV: April 21st, 2004

RAVEN welcomes us to the show this week, and by welcome, I mean he does not look pleased.

"Last week, a night of celebration came to a bittersweet end. Terry Funk and I, unlikely allies against James Storm and Chris Harris, walked out of that steel cage with blood dripping from our heads, fresh scars on our bodies, and most importantly, the NWA World Tag Team gold that America's Most Wanted craves and covets. It was a time for people to rejoice that America's Most Wanted received their comeuppance, and that Jeff Jarrett's daddy issues were put to rest. Instead, Jeff Jarrett, you put your hands on Alexis Laree. You put your hands on her and you carried her off into the sunset. Bring her back to me, Jeff Jarrett. Bring her back, or else they'll be carrying you off into the sunset...in a bodybag. Quote the Raven, nevermore."

OVERALL RATING: 90%

BRIAN KENDRICK and SHARK BOY vs. THE GLORY BOYS (Michael Shane and Jason Jett w/ Traci Brooks)

Weeks of tension between former friends Kendrick and Shane has led to this, and each man has an ally to assist. Shane and Jett have found a kindred spirit in each other, and Traci is the "glue that holds them both together", which leads the normally straightforward Tenay to make an innuendo or two. As expected, the crowd is firmly behind Shark Boy and Kendrick. After both Jett and Sharky make the tag, Kendrick and Shane are finally able to do battle, each man desperate to show that they're better. Shane falls victim to poetic justice, as Kendrick hits a back suplex, then a superkick that sends Shane stumbling back into the corner. After hitting the two moves that his trainer, Shawn Michaels, made famous, Kendrick then pulls Shane up and hits Sliced Bread #2 for the pin! The crowd jumps to their feet, and Kendrick hugs Shark Boy, as he's finally beaten his rival, one-two-three.

**1/2MATCH QUALITY: 79%
CROWD REACTION: 71%
OVERALL RATING: 75%

Brian Kendrick gained overness from this feud ending. Shark Boy gained overness from this feud ending. Jason Jett gained overness from this feud ending. Michael Shane gained overness from this feud ending.



After the match, VINCE RUSSO comes out, not looking that happy. While others certainly enjoyed seeing him get dropped by the street fighter DAN MAFF last week, it seems like Russo would like nothing more than to forget it.

"SHUT UP. You people think it's funny what happened last week? Let me tell you something about that street trash Dan Maff, Muffintop, whatever the hell his name is. He showed up here unprovoked and attacked not one, but TWO contracted members of the NWA-TNA roster, and I will NOT let that stand. Furthermore, you people DISGUST me with your blatant lack of respect for me and for members of this company, because you egged him on! You CHEERED him when he attacked Jeff Jarrett, and you cheered him when he took a cheap shot at me! You people are no better than the dog crap I dodge on the sidewalk!"

The crowd boos loudly, and if Russo was looking for sympathy, he's not getting it here.

"Now, if you people want to shut up for a second, I have some actual business to attend to. As the interim TNA Troubleshooter, it's my duty, and my responsibility to listen to the NWA Board of Directors. I understand that they don't have total faith in my ability and that they think I obtained this job under false pretenses, but I am here to show that I'm loyal to them. Because I'm committed to this company, and to doing what's best for YOU. So, while reviewing the roster, I noticed that there were several members of the TNA roster that weren't as committed as I am. Men who thought they were better than TNA, that thought there talents were put to better use elsewhere. I can't stand for that, the Board of Directors can't stand for that, and that is why you will never, EVER, see LOW KI or BRYAN DANIELSON on the TNA roster again."

The crowd boos even louder now.

"Trust me, I'm doing the right thing. If you want someone to blame, you can blame Dan Maff."

Russo throws the mic down and walks out, shrugging off the crowd's disdain for him as he heads up the ramp.

OVERALL RATING: 79%

SHOCKER vs. PSYCHOSIS (w/ FATHER JAMES MITCHELL)

Lucha Libre action takes over TNA tonight, as the popular Shocker takes on the psychotic Psychosis, now managed by the macabre Father James Mitchell. Psychosis seems more reckless with his style, using his high flying ability in more creative ways, such as crotching Shocker on the guardrail, then taking the ring stairs and springing off of them, hitting a Frankensteiner on Shocker that sends him to the floor. Shocker is able to battle back, but after Psychosis blocks a splash by getting his knees up, it's easy for him to get to the top rope without an obstacle in his path, and hits the Guillotine Legdrop for the pin. Mitchell cackles as he gets in the ring and raises the hand of his charge, and the crazed Mexican takes Mitchell's cane, waiting for Shocker to start to rise...then CRACKS IT ACROSS THE BACK OF HIS NECK! Shocker goes down, and Rudy Charles asks Psychosis what's wrong with him, but Psychosis just gives him a wide eyed stare as Mitchell continues laughing.

**3/4MATCH QUALITY: 83%
CROWD REACTION: 70%
OVERALL RATING: 76%



THE BRISCOE BROTHERS with their COACH, BILL ALFONSO, come out. They want to thank the fans for getting behind them, and for the NWA giving them their first "big break". Not much more is said until AMERICA'S MOST WANTED interrupt and jump the young siblings! AMW beat the Briscoes down, while Alfonso protests, blowing his whistle. James Storm grabs Alfonso and backs him into the corner, telling Alfonso that his boys might have the number one contendership, but the tag titles are going back to America's Most Wanted before some "damn rookies" get their hands on 'em. As Alfonso is being accosted, Mark and Jay recover, and the Briscoes pair off with Storm and Harris, driving them from the ring!

OVERALL RATING: 67% The Briscoes lost overness from this segment.

THE BRISCOE BROTHERS vs. AMERICA'S MOST WANTED

Alfonso is jumping up and down, blowing his whistle as Rudy Charles comes back out, and we have an official match between the number one contenders and the former NWA World Tag Team Champions! Storm and Harris are motivated by their loss to Funk and Raven last week, and leave the technique at home, choosing to just beat on the younger, more popular duo. Finally, Jay blocks a backdrop by kicking Harris in the face, then flooring him with a clothesline. A tag to Mark leads to double teaming on Harris, and when Harris tags in Storm, the "Cowboy" doesn't fare much better. A short time later the Doomsday Device finishes off AMW, and the Briscoe Brothers not only are the number one contenders, but now they've just pinned the former World Tag Team Champions!

***3/4MATCH QUALITY: 89%
CROWD REACTION: 78%
OVERALL RATING: 83%



NWA WORLD TITLE: AJ STYLES (w/ DON CALLIS) (c) vs. ACE STEEL

Tenay mentions how Steel has been in a bit of a slump lately due to the Devil's Duo assaults taking their toll, and that AJ personally challenged him to a match because "he's in a slump almost as bad as Jerry Lynn", not taking into account the fact that Lynn has pushed him to his limit several times. Steel, like Lynn before him, gives AJ more than he can handle, but one high risk move too many does him in. AJ catches Steel's crossbody, hits a quick ribbuster, then segues into the Styles Clash for the victory. AJ is handed the belt by Callis and holds it above his head while standing over Steel. Callis laughs and points, letting the crowd know that this is "YOUR World Champion", while AJ lightly kicks Steel before exiting the ring.

***1/2MATCH QUALITY: 88%
CROWD REACTION: 75%
OVERALL RATING: 81%



CALLIS takes the mic from Jeremy Borash at ringside, and continues his hype while AJ parades around ringside. "Jerry Lynn can't cut it anymore, Bryan Danielson wasn't TNA material, Christopher Daniels has the X Title but is off in Japan right now, and the World Tag Team Champions are two broken down has beens. AJ Styles is everything the NWA could want, and everything it could need. The best flyer, the best wrestler, the best of the best. AJ Styles, the NWA World Heavyweight Champion, is simply phenomenal."

OVERALL RATING: 71%

RAVEN vs. JEFF JARRETT

This match is happening due to Jarrett running off with Raven's ladyfriend ALEXIS LAREE at the end of the program last week. The typical brawl you'd expect from these two, with Raven questioning Jarrett as he beats on him, screaming "WHERE'S ALEXIS" as he chokes Jarrett with his boot in the corner. Jarrett gets things going in his favor after hitting a low blow, and then pulls a pair of brass knuckles out of his tights. His hand cocked, Jarrett prepares to deliver the fatal blow...but the crowd gets louder as DAN MAFF slides into the ring and swings Jarrett around! Jarrett looks as though he's seen a ghost, and Maff unloads into Jarrett, hitting a series of punches and then clotheslining him over the ropes! Maff is worked up, and turns around right into Raven...and the show goes off the air with Raven staring a hole through Maff, and Maff not backing down!

*1/2MATCH QUALITY: 67%
CROWD REACTION: 81%
OVERALL RATING: 76%

Raven lost overness from this match.



OVERALL SHOW RATING: 76%

We got a 0.21 buy rate for 'TNA on PPV'!
The attendance was 3441 people.
We made $525000 from pay-per-view revenue.
We made $44733 from ticket sales.

Shark Boy and Kendrick were happy with the feud ending, Michael Shane wants to be higher up the card, and Shane and Jason Jett work well as a team due to similar styles.

[zackmalibu]

TNA on PPV: April 28, 2004

Tonight's show opens with the sight of MICHAEL SHANE and TRACI BROOKS in the ring. It appears Shane has already gotten on the crowds' nerves, but is enjoying every second of it.

"You people saw last week that my man JASON JETT and I, we had no chance against BRIAN KENDRICK and SHARK BOY. You people know how badly Kendrick wanted to beat me, and he has to go out and find some guy in a mask, and he has to use every dirty trick in the book to beat me. Well I'm not about that. I can beat him in a fair fight. I can beat ANYONE in a fair fight! Because I'm the new generation of greatness, and I WILL prove it to the world, even if I have to break a few hearts to get there!"

Shane continues taunting the crowd, when an ominous beat starts playing over the loudspeakers. The song, familiar to alt rock fans as AFI's "Miseria Cantare" plays as CM PUNK walks out onto the ramp, and Shane's eyes go wide.

"Did I just hear you say you could beat ANYONE in a fair fight? Well then, let's see if you're a man of your word. Because I don't need to push myself onto people based on a legacy. I don't need to live off of anyone's name. I don't have a sense of entitlement like your prissy ass seems to have. See, I fight, I claw, I scratch, I bleed for what I want. I have seen the highest of highs and the lowest of lows but the bottom line is that I am the best pure athlete this business has ever seen, and if you're looking for it, I'm here to give it to you!"

The fans cheer loudly, and a chant of "CM PUNK" goes up, as Shane takes off his vest and hands it to Traci, and it looks like we've got a match to kick off the last show of April!

OVERALL RATING: 75%.

CM Punk debuted his new gimmick (clean cut), it got a negative response. CM Punk gained overness from this segment. CM Punk's turn was completed, and he is now a face. CM Punk gained overness from this turn.

CM PUNK vs. MICHAEL SHANE

Shane takes a cheap shot immediately, but Punk ducks it and pulls Shane's feet out from under him, then stands over him and paintbrushes the back of his head. The crowd is enthused by the appearance of Punk, and it looks like he's having some fun with Shane to start. Shane is disturbed by the appearance of the Straight Edge Superstar and comes out swinging, but seems overwhelmed by him. Shane does gain control and goes for the Sweet Shane Music, perhaps too early, as Punk catches it, hits a uranage, and then locks on the Anaconda Vice! Shane frantically tries to escape, but to no avail, and taps as fast as he can! CM PUNK is BACK in NWA-TNA, and he's just tapped out Michael Shane!

***

MATCH QUALITY: 85%
CROWD REACTION: 69%
OVERALL RATING: 77%

CM Punk gained overness from this match.

ACE STEEL and SHOCKER vs. BACKSEAT BOYZ

The duo of Steel and Shocker take a break from their war with James Mitchell's Devil's Duo tonight, taking on a team that is fresh off their ladder war with the Backseat Boyz. Acid and Kashmere seem to have regained their brash attitudes and hold their own with the makeshift duo, but Steel and Shocker still manage to reach victory, after Kashmere taps out to La Reinera! Steel and Shocker congratulate each other on the victory...but their break from the Devil's Duo was short lived, as Mitchell stands on the ramp and orders Kash and Psychosis to attack! The BSB roll out of harms way as Mitchell's men do his bidding, and both Steel and Shocker are left laid out thanks to Hell On Earth on each of them! Mitchell enters the ring and cackles, posing with his men above the fallen bodies of their foes.

****

MATCH QUALITY: 95%
CROWD REACTION: 74%
OVERALL RATING: 84%

RAVEN is backstage, with words for JEFF JARRETT. "Again tonight, the Raven flies solo. My partner TERRY FUNK, he has business at the Double Cross Ranch. However, I have business here. Business with you, Jeff Jarrett. Because you still have something that belongs to me. You have Alexis Laree, and you will bring her back to me, or I will send you home for good. Because I am not a man who seeks resolution within the law. I seek it on my own terms, and for you, Jeff Jarrett...that will make you wish for the cold steel of prison bars. Bring her back to me, Jarrett, or I will deliver you to depths of hell that you can't possibly fathom. Quote the Raven, nevermore."

OVERALL RATING: 100%. Raven gained overness from this segment.

JAY BRISCOE (w/ COACH BILL ALFONSO) vs. JASON JETT

Another team flies solo tonight, as one of the popular Briscoe Brothers does battle with TNA's self-proclaimed "Best Kept Secret". Jett shows that he's a worthy adversary, and this could be considered a preview of a Briscoe Brothers/Glory Boys contest. If the result is any indication, then Jett and partner Michael Shane might not want that to be the case, as Jay is able to drop Jett with the Jay Driller rather quickly and pick up the three count. Alfonso gets in the ring and raises the hand of his charge, while the crowd applauds, having been won over by this young man and his brother Mark in recent months.
***1/2

MATCH QUALITY: 90%
CROWD REACTION: 72%
OVERALL RATING: 81%


Backstage, MARK BRISCOE is watching on a monitor, and up walk DON CALLIS and AJ STYLES. AJ stands tall, patting the NWA World Title that rests on his shoulder, while Callis puts a hand on Mark's shoulder.

"Looks like your brother is having a good night. How would you like to have an even better night? See, the champ here, he needs another notch in his belt. Now I know, I know...you've been through a lot lately. Ladder matches, the war with the Backseat Boyz, the brawl with America's Most Wanted...but what I'm offering you is the chance of a lifetime. The chance to share a ring with the greatest. With the best. With the Phenomenal One, AJ STYLES!"

Mark goes to talk, but gets cut off by AJ.

"Listen, hillbilly, think of it this way. You know how you passed up that scholarship to Georgetown? Think of this as a scholarship. A free ride to greatness. I'll even put my belt on the line. I'm gonna head out to the ring, and if you're feeling froggy, then you just jump on down there. K, sport?"

AJ slaps Mark on the shoulder and walks off, smirking, while Mark looks on, insulted at the arrogance of Callis and Styles.

OVERALL RATING: 79%

NWA WORLD TITLE: AJ STYLES (c) (w/ DON CALLIS) vs. MARK BRISCOE

Briscoe does indeed jump, and Alfonso heads back out to the ring to counteract the appearance of Callis. Tenay talks about it seems AJ and Callis selected Mark due to the Briscoes not being 100% because of their recent battles, but Mark seems to surprise AJ with his resilience. Mark fights on, but the wear and tear shows, as AJ is just too quick. Mark eats boot when he charges the corner, and AJ then hits a quebrada into a reverse DDT, and hooks his leg over Mark's to keep him down. Mark Briscoe goes down to the NWA World Champion, but not after a hell of a fight, and while AJ cockily poses on the turnbuckles with the belt, the crowd is more concerned with Mark, cheering for him as Alfonso helps him to the back.

****1/2
MATCH QUALITY: 95%
CROWD REACTION: 81%
OVERALL RATING: 89%

The NWA World Title has gained in image.


VINCE RUSSO is backstage, and has words for everyone again. It seems that next week, the Board of Directors is going to release their findings on the little matter of Jerry Jarrett supposedly appointing Russo the interim TNA Troubleshooter while SHANE DOUGLAS is out. He also cusses out RAVEN, saying that he must be in cahoots with that scumbag DAN MAFF after what he saw last week. Russo tells Raven that Jeff Jarrett is going to put a bullet in "the bird" once and for all tonight, and that if Maff shows his face within five miles of the Asylum, Russo will personally rub it into the concrete.

OVERALL RATING: 71%

RAVEN vs. JEFF JARRETT

Another out of control brawl between the two rivals, and once again Raven is intent on getting answers, torturing Jarrett in various ways while trying to get an answer out of him as to Alexis' whereabouts. The ref goes down after getting caught up in the midst of an Irish whip, and both men use that to their advantage, as Jarrett brings a chair down across Raven's back. Raven fights back, and once he gets the chair he responds with a chairshot, then sets it up in mid-ring. He whips Jarrett to the ropes...but Jarrett's foot is caught by DAN MAFF, who yanks him out of the ring and starts beating on him! Raven is not impressed with the appearance of the interloper yet again, but when JAMES STORM runs out and jumps Maff, Raven hits a baseball slide on Storm! Raven goes after Storm, while Maff dumps Jarrett into the crowd and chases him out of the Asylum, leaving Jeff Jarrett running scared as the feed goes black!

*1/2
MATCH QUALITY: 67%
CROWD REACTION: 82%
OVERALL RATING: 77%

Jeff Jarrett gained overness from this match.


OVERALL RATING: 81%
We got a 0.20 buy rate for 'TNA on PPV'!
The attendance was 3429 people.
We made $500000 from pay-per-view revenue.
We made $44577 from ticket sales.


CM Punk and Shocker want to be higher up the card, Jay Briscoe and Jason Jett work well due to similar styles, and the same is said for AJ Styles and Mark Briscoe.

[Dan O'Mac]

Should've put the title on Mark

[zackmalibu]

Hey, never say never!

Quick update (I'm at work, so this is off the top of my head from my end of the month emails on the game). Urban American Network has offered me a 6 month spot in primetime. Thank God, because the weekly PPV format just bleeds money. Also, Terry Funk has gone and decided to become a non-wrestler (sad face). Part of the fun of the game is altering plans, though, so I'm sure I can come up with something good.

I'm going to keep the show on Wednesdays, and you can expect the first prime time TV show, and the build for my first "big" PPV to happen in the next day or two!

[zackmalibu]

The first edition of TNA Impact! in primetime will be up later tonight! Some hype for the show:

After weeks of attacks by DAN MAFF, JEFF JARRETT has sworn that the street fighter, who is not under an NWA-TNA contract, will never put his hands on him again. Will Maff show up for the primetime debut show, and if he does...what's up Jarrett's sleeve?

Speaking of Double J, it's been weeks since anyone has seen or heard from Alexis Laree, and RAVEN is still out for blood. He'll do battle with Jarrett once again, only this time the Board of Directors have agreed to sanction a FALLS COUNT ANYWHERE match for the two rivals!

The Board of Directors promises to reveal their findings regarding VINCE RUSSO's claims to be an "official" interim TNA Troubleshooter in Shane Douglas' absence!

The NWA Board of Directors have also announced that not one, but TWO former World Champions have been signed to contracts, and will debut on television this Wednesday...AGAINST EACH OTHER. This is also going to be the first time these men have ever faced each other!

Plus, World Champion AJ Styles and Don Callis will be in attendance, and a special announcement will be made regarding an upcoming event. All this and more, live on the Urban American Network this Wednesday night at 9pm!

[zackmalibu]

TNA IMPACT! Wrestling: May 5, 2004

Tonight, the NWA is proud to make an impact on prime time television, as TNA Wrestling comes to you LIVE from the Asylum in Nashville, TN! We know that here tonight, on live television, that AJ Styles WILL defend the NWA World Heavyweight Title. We know that the Briscoe Brothers, #1 contenders to the NWA World Tag Team Titles, will take on America's Most Wanted. Also, two former World Champions will make their debut...against each other! Plus, a very special announcement regarding upcoming events. All this and more is coming your way, so we immediately head to the ring, where we start off with ACTION~!

CM PUNK vs. JASON JETT (w/ TRACI BROOKS)

Mike Tenay and Father James Mitchell welcome us to the broadcast, as Jett makes his way to the ring with the buxom Traci Brooks. Our announce team get a dig in at competition "who bore us with twenty minutes of talking", and discuss how CM Punk recently debuted in NWA-TNA and defeated Jett's Glory Boys partner MICHAEL SHANE. Punk gets a large pop from the crowd, and easily dispatches of Jett, as Jett goes for a hurcanrana, only have it countered by Punk, who tosses him into the turnbuckles. Punk then hoists Jett up across his shoulders, then throws him down so that Jett's face connects with Punk's raised knee! Jett is out, and Tenay remarks that Punk "just put Jason Jett to sleep with that move!" A three count later, and the crowd celebrates the victory of CM Punk.

**3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 84%
CROWD REACTION: 61%
OVERALL RATING: 72%

Jason Jett lost overness from this match. CM Punk gained overness from this match.

Punk takes the microphone after the match, tapping on it to make sure it's working and to get the crowd to quiet down. The announcers call attention to Michael Shane standing on the ramp, greeting his fallen comrade as Traci helps him up the ramp.

"For those of you out in TV land who don't know me, my name is CM Punk, and maybe that name doesn't mean anything to you right now, but I promise it will. Because what you just witnessed was talent. Pure talent. See, I'm straight edge, and what that means is that I do not indulge in drugs or alcohol. My body is pure, and that means my talent is pure. I don't take performance enhancers. I don't poison my body to get ahead. I am the best PURE ATHLETE that this company...that this business, has ever known, and I am willing to prove that night in and night out for as long as it takes to register. I back down from no one, and that goes for you, Michael Shane, up there on the ramp. It seems like I've gotten to you simply by beating you man to man. Tonight, you sent your partner to do your dirty work, and the result was the same. If you'd like, I'll gladly give you the chance to try your luck again. Next week, right here, we can do a rematch, and I'll prove again, just like I did tonight, why I am, quite simply, BETTER THAN YOU."

OVERALL RATING: 75%. CM Punk gained overness from this segment.

ACE STEEL and SHOCKER vs. THE DEVIL'S DUO (w/ FATHER JAMES MITCHELL)

Mitchell retreats from the commentary position for this match, taking his place in the corner of his recently formed Devil's Duo. Tenay goes over the history behind this match for the new viewers at home, talking about how Steel humbled Kash and Psychosis several times, creating their unstable, reckless attitudes and Mitchell's molding of them into a unit. Steel and Shocker come at them hard, but the Devil's Duo show that they are a much more cohesive unit than the foreign star and the blue collar Steel, and Hell On Earth spells the end for the makeshift team. The Devil's Duo defeat their rivals, and a newly motivated Kash and Psychosis hold the ropes for their mentor, who enters the ring and raises their hands in victory.

***
MATCH QUALITY: 85%
CROWD REACTION: 72%
OVERALL RATING: 78%

All four men gained overness from this feud ending.


After a commercial break, MIKE TENAY invites VINCE RUSSO, the "interim TNA Troubleshooter' out to the ring. Tenay explains that when SHANE DOUGLAS, the TNA Troubleshooter, was mysteriously attacked, it wasn't long until Russo appeared back on the scene, claiming JERRY JARRETT, the owner of NWA-TNA, signed off on Russo replacing Douglas during his recovery time. Russo insists that that is the case, but Tenay directs Russo to the TNATron, where JERRY JARRETT does not look happy.

"I would like to explicitly say here and now, to both the staff and the fans of NWA-TNA Wrestling, that at no point did I agree to bring back Vince Russo even on an interim basis. An investigation was launched with my support by the NWA Board of Directors, and we have determined that the contract Vince Russo presented was in fact a FORGERY...a forgery committed by MY SON, JEFF JARRETT. As of right now, Mr. Russo, you can consider yourself removed from duty, and please allow me to welcome back...the TNA TROUBLESHOOTER, THE FRANCHISE, SHANE DOUGLAS!

Douglas' music hits, as Russo stomps the canvas, grabbing Tenay by his suit jacket and screaming in his face. Douglas hits the ring and makes Russo back off, then calls for the mic from Tenay.

"Vince Russo, before you get the hell out of my ring, let me just say that Jerry Jarrett might be done with you, but I am not. Because if your crew wants to rise to power that badly, they're going to have to do something more than just..."

"Whoa, whoa...waitaminute, Shane. MY crew? I can't...I mean..."

Russo holds his head, and starts laughing to himself.

"You actually think I care enough about you to try to take you out?"

Douglas stands tall, but now looks confused.

"Shane, you are one of the most self destructive people this business has ever seen. You don't just burn bridges...you TORCH them. And now you think that just because I had a forged document, that your attack was perpetrated by us?"

"If it wasn't you, or Jarrett, or AMW...then who?"

"Even if I knew, it would take more than asking nicely. I'm from New York, so you should know you need to grease some palms to get what you want. The fact of the matter is, there's a bigger picture here, but when it comes to who attacked you, I got no part in it, bro. But good luck with finding out who it was. I'm sure narrowing down your enemies is gonna be REAL easy."

Russo chuckles, and exits the ring, as Shane Douglas scowls at him. The TNA Troubleshooter is back in charge, but we're now left with more questions than answers, as it turns out Shane was NOT attacked by Jeff Jarrett's crew. So if not them, then who?

OVERALL RATING: 78%. Shane Douglas gained overness from this segment.

We return to TNA IMPACT!, where RAVEN, one half of the World Tag Team Champions, is lurking in his own personal "nest" backstage. For the past few weeks, Alexis Laree has gone unheard from, last being seen taken into a waiting car by Raven's rival JEFF JARRETT. Tonight, Raven and Jarrett will do battle again.

"This time, Jeff Jarrett, we do not have to worry about containing our hatred between the ropes. Tonight, it seems that the father has seen the knife the son placed in his back. Even your own blood can't trust you, Jeff, and that makes you incredibly dangerous. I've told you before though, Jeff, that you are trying to bring hell to a man that has already lurked in the dark corners of it. You may have taken Alexis, but I have faith that she will find her way home...because tonight, I will make you ache. I will make you bleed. I will make life whole again by destroying you, and bringing Alexis back to me. Tonight, Jeff Jarrett, the world will see us like they never have before. If you wish to bring hell to me tonight, then prepare to be burned by its fire. Quote the Raven, nevermore."

OVERALL RATING: 89%

BRISCOE BROTHERS (w/ COACH BILL ALFONSO) vs. AMERICA'S MOST WANTED

Both teams get the hype treatment from the announcers, as the Briscoes are heralded as the hottest tag team in wrestling...something Mitchell on commentary takes offense to. AMW's treason earlier this year, and their alignment with Jarrett is discussed as well, as they take multiple shortcuts to try and take out the Brisoes. In the end, the number one contenders stand tall, and show why they are being celebrated as the Next Big Thing, when Chris Harris falls victim to a springboard Doomsday Device from the boys. Coach Alfonso gets in the ring and claps and blows his whistle, as Mark and Jay Briscoe hug each other, and a disgusted James Storm helps his partner out of the ring.

***3/4
MATCH QUALITY: 90%
CROWD REACTION: 81%
OVERALL RATING: 85%


JEFF JARRETT's music hits, as he is set to come out for his Falls Count Anywhere Match with RAVEN...but as Jarrett is coming down the ramp, DAN MAFF strikes, coming out of the crowd and tackling Jarrett on the ramp! The announcers talk about how Maff is not an NWA contracted talent, and that he is a "vigilante" seeking justice on Jeff Jarrett and his crew for taking out his friend D LO BROWN last month. As Maff is pounding on Jarrett, a man runs out from the back and clocks Maff across the back of the head, then grabs both of his arms and yanks them back, trapping him in a double armbar! Jarrett gets up and shrugs off the beating, then goes and puts boots to Maff's head as PERRY SATURN is revealed as the man trying to break Maff's arms! Security rushes out to break up the brawl, and Jarrett tells Saturn to break. Saturn walks up the ramp with an exhausted Jarrett, who takes the microphone.

"You people...you're a bunch of damn fools if you don't think I don't have an ace up my sleeve. This street trash wants to show up every week, and the damn security, they don't wanna do nothin' because they don't like the way I do business? Well that's all well and good, because I took some of my hard earned money, and I made myself an investment. I'm gonna make sure that NO ONE bothers ol' Double J anymore, because allow me to present to you my backup...my investment...my ELIMINATOR, the man who will take out anyone I tell him to, and pay him to. Ladies and gentleman, Mr. PERRY SATURN!"

Saturn glares into the camera, and cranks his neck, as Jarrett laughs and drops the mic. Security helps Maff up, but lead him towards a side entrance, as Jarrett gloats and Saturn stands menacing on the ramp.
OVERALL RATING: 72%. Jeff Jarrett lost overness from this segment.


SABU vs. VADER

We come back to a calm Asylum, as the commotion dies down from the surprising appearance of Perry Saturn as Jeff Jarrett's personal hitman, but the calmness is broken when an Arabian sound echoes through the arena, signifying the return to TNA of SABU! The former ECW World Champion points to the sky and heads to the ring, while Tenay and Mitchell discuss his history on commentary. Both men reveal that Sabu is one of the two former World Champions signed by the Board of Directors, and are as shocked as the crowd when the other one is revealed...THE MAN THEY CALL VADER! The brutish Vader heads to the ring, and Sabu immediately goes on the offensive, hitting a baseball slide and then a flying clothesline off the apron! Both moves only rock the big man, as he hammers Sabu with his huge fist, and then tosses him into the ring stairs. Vader casually picks them up and tosses them aside, and startles the commentary team when he picks Sabu up and military presses him onto their table! Vader drags Sabu off the table, and then readies Sabu for a powerbomb, lifting him up as Tenay and Mitchell get back...but Sabu punches Vader between the eyes, getting him to release his grip! Sabu falls to his feet, and grabs the timekeeper's chair...and tosses it at Vader's head! Vader staggers back, and Sabu uses the steps as a launching pad, hitting a flying leg lariat that knocks the big man down! Sabu pounces on him, hitting forearms across his back, but Vader runs Sabu back into the guardrail, and the two men just continue brawling, unable to be broken up by the referee! Rudy Charles finally gives up and calls for the bell, ruling it a no contest, and security rushes out for the second time in the past ten minutes, trying to pry apart two of the most hard hitting men in wrestling history!

**
MATCH QUALITY: 72%
CROWD REACTION: 83%
OVERALL RATING: 79%


Backstage, AJ STYLES and DON CALLIS are conversing in the locker room, and AJ appears disgusted with what he just saw.

"THOSE TWO? THOSE TWO are the "major signings"? I mean, does the Board of Directors realize that there has been life after 1996? Former World Champions? Hell, I thought those two were former WRESTLERS at this point, Don! Didn't Sabu just pump our gas a few weeks ago?"

"AJ, don't even worry about it. You're in a league above everyone around you, and you're ten thousand leagues above those has beens! YOU are the name value that TNA needs. YOu are the Phenomenal One. YOU are the World Champion!"

"I'm the greatest World Champion this company has ever seen! This crowd, they deserve better than what they've been watching tonight. I'm gonna go out there and do what I do best, and that's be THEIR World Champion."

"I'm right behind you, champ!"

AJ wraps the belt around his waist, and Callis fastens it for him, and the two head out to the arena as we fade out to commercial.

OVERALL RATING: 78%

NWA WORLD TITLE: AJ STYLES (c) (w/ DON CALLIS) vs. SHARK BOY

AJ's opponent is the ever popular SHARK BOY, but what AJ thinks is going to be a pushover contest seems to be tougher than he imagined, as several times AJ is outwrestled by the masked superstar! AJ takes a powder and gets some advice from Callis, but the champ's offense is minimal as Shark Boy is fired up tonight! Finally, AJ is able to send Sharky to the corner and follow up with a diving elbow to take over. He goes for a tornado DDT, but when Shark Boy throws AJ off, AJ takes Shark Boy's mask with him...

...AND REVEALS JERRY LYNN!

The crowd ROARS as AJ looks as though he's seen a ghost, and when Lynn lunges for him, AJ clears the top rope and lands on the floor, running up the ramp! The referee counts AJ out...but he can't go to the back as SHANE DOUGLAS is back out, blocking his way! Douglas forces AJ backwards, and now the champion is caught between having to face Lynn or having to face The Franchise!

"AJ Styles, it seems that Jerry Lynn and I have something in common, that being that we were both attacked by somebody a few months ago. The way I see it, you're someone who had a lot to gain by taking us out. You take out the guy making the matches, and you take out your top challenger, and you think you're on easy street? Well, let me tell you something, BOY, this is the Asylum, and champions earn their keep around here! Not only are we on in PRIME TIME, but later this month, May 30th to be exact, we're going LIVE on pay per view with a three hour show, and YOU'RE going to be our main event! YOU'RE the man, AJ, and as far as I'm concerned, that belt is just a clock, with the seconds ticking down...because at TNA's first pay per view, Victory Road, it's you...AND JERRY LYNN!"

AJ screams at Douglas, with Callis trying to calm AJ down, as Lynn, still clad in the Shark Boy costume, heads up the ramp...which sends AJ backing off again, not wanting any part of the one man who could have his number.

****1/2
MATCH QUALITY: 96%
CROWD REACTION: 84%
OVERALL RATING: 90%


FALLS COUNT ANYWHERE: RAVEN vs. JEFF JARRETT

Tenay and Mitchell discuss the previous segment, and talk more about the Victory Road pay per view coming up at the end of the month, with AJ Styles vs. Jerry Lynn for the World Title the first official match signed. The crowd is still buzzing about the pay per view announcement and Lynn's return, and they're a bit distracted as Jarrett and Raven move around the Asylum, battering each other with whatever is within reach. Raven is exhausted from the brawl, and Jarrett, who is wearing jeans, whips Raven with his belt, and chokes him with it. Jarrett goes to the floor and sets up a table, then climbs back up on the ramp...but as he's about to throw Raven off, ALEXIS LAREE comes running out with a chair! Alexis, who hasn't been seen in weeks since Jeff Jarrett took off with her, looks stern as she keeps the chair cocked...AND SHE TURNS AND CRACKS RAVEN WITH IT! Jarrett quickly covers Raven, who is soaked in blood, and gets the pin on the stage. Jarrett gets up and goes over to Alexis, who drops the chair...AND STARTS MAKING OUT WITH JEFF JARRETT!?!?! WHAT IS GOING ON!??!!? Together, the two of them pick Raven up, and Alexis and Jarrett hurl Raven off the ramp through the table, leaving him laying in a pile of table and splinters, while the final image is of Jarrett and Alexis, Raven's "biggest fan"...embraced on the entrance ramp.
3/4 star

Jeff Jarrett gained overness from this match. The fans realised that Alexis Laree turned not too long ago, and so this time they didn't care so much. Alexis Laree lost overness from this turn. This match suffered because the crowd were still pumped up from the last one, and so this bout was seen as something of a let-down to them.


OVERALL RATING: 76% (that last segment killed me, ugh).

We got a 1.33 rating for 'TNA Impact!'!The attendance level was 2757 people.
We made $27570 from ticket sales.


Devil's Duo were happy with the feud, and Sabu blamed Vader for working too stiff!

[zackmalibu]

TNA IMPACT! Wrestling: May 12, 2004

LAST WEEK: NWA-TNA debuted on television with not just a big bang, but with a sonic boom!

-SHANE DOUGLAS has returned from his attack, and revealed that VINCE RUSSO was fraudulently put in place as the interim troubleshooter!

-SABU and VADER debuted with the company, and met each other for the first time, kicking off a war the likes of which the wrestling world has never seen!

-DAN MAFF appeared once again, seeking revenge on JEFF JARRETT for injuring his friend D LO BROWN nearly two months ago...but Jarrett debuted his protection plan...PERRY SATURN, who took Maff down and nearly broke both his arms with the Rings of Saturn!

-Speaking of Jarrett, his falls count anywhere match with RAVEN ended with victory for Double J, when Alexis Laree, a devoted Raven supporter who was last seen being abducted by Jarrett, showed up and turned on Raven...then made out with Jarrett!

-CM PUNK debuted on national television, defeating JASON JETT and then laying out Jett's tag team partner MICHAEL SHANE when he tried to get the jump on Punk!

-World Champion AJ STYLES thought he had an easy night in store with his scheduled defense against SHARK BOY...but JERRY LYNN revealed he was under the Shark Boy mask and was injury free, sending AJ running scared!

-Shane Douglas announced that on May 30, TNA will have their first ever three hour pay per view, VICTORY ROAD...and the main event will be AJ vs. Lynn for the NWA World Heavyweight Title!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lights, camera, ACTION~! as we return to the Asylum for this week's edition of TNA IMPACT! Wrestling. Mike Tenay and Father James Mitchell welcome us to the broadcast, going over the bullet points of what happened last week. The duo is then interrupted by the Jaws-like music of SHARK BOY, who will kick things off for us tonight!

SHARK BOY vs. JASON JETT

It's the real Shark Boy, and not Jerry Lynn borrowing the costume tonight, as he does battle with one half of the Glory Boys. The match barely gets going, however, because AJ STYLES runs into the ring and clocks Shark Boy from behind! Jett looks at AJ, who looks like a man possessed, and just backs off, letting the champ do what he came down here to do. Shark Boy is caught off guard and can't fight back, and AJ plants him on the canvas with a Styles Clash! As AJ stands over Shark Boy, Callis takes the mic:

"This is not a man who hides behind a mask. This is not a man who tries to obtain things under false pretenses. This is a man who is better than you, Jerry Lynn. This is a man who is better than all those put before him! He is the Phenomenal One, he is AJ Styles...he is YOUR World Heavyweight Champion!"

AJ holds the belt over his head, and soaks in the jeers directed his way, while Callis stands beside him, applauding his charge.

**1/2

MATCH QUALITY: 79%
CROWD REACTION: 67%
OVERALL RATING: 73%

CM PUNK is shown backstage, warming up, when off camera an interviewer asks if he's got any thoughts on his upcoming match with MICHAEL SHANE.

"Do I have any thoughts on it? Yeah, one thought. WIN. Michael Shane is nothing more than a spoiled brat. A self-obsessed prima donna. You think I care about his background or his family history? He can drop all the names he wants...tonight, I drop him on his face, and I'll make him go to sleep one more time."

OVERALL RATING: 64%

CM PUNK vs. MICHAEL SHANE

A rivalry that started on the weekly PPV broadcasts spills over to national television, as Shane, the cousin of WWE superstar SHAWN MICHAELS, feels that CM Punk is beneath him, and undeserving of an opportunity to be on the NWA-TNA roster. Shane, who enters first, jumps Punk at the bell, and doesn't let up. Punk hits some stiff chops, blistering the chest of Shane, until Shane is able to counter an Irish whip and then double Punk over with a knee to the gut! Shane gets cocky, taunting Punk and then goes for a top rope splash...but Punk gets his knees up, and Shane's ribs take a hit! Shane is left gasping for air, and he's easy picking for Punk to scoop up...GO TO SLEEP! The ref counts to three, and CM Punk once again gets the victory over Michael Shane!

***3/4

MATCH QUALITY: 86%
CROWD REACTION: 75%
OVERALL RATING: 80%

Michael Shane lost overness from this match. CM Punk gained overness from this match.

When we return from commercial, the music of JEFF JARRETT sounds, and he makes his way to the ring arm in arm with ALEXIS LAREE. The crowd boos loudly, as the hated Jarrett and the smug looking Alexis get in the ring, and Jarrett hands her the mic.

"ALEXIS SUCKS!"

Alexis scowls, but then smiles, like a Cheshire cat.

"You people are right, Alexis DOES suck...because MY name is MICKIE JAMES."

The announcers and the fans are confused, as Mickie flips her hair back.

"Alexis Laree was nothing more than an alias. A slave name that promoters stuck me with. Promoters who tried to objectify me. Who treated me like a piece of meat. People like Raven who emotionally abused me, and took advantage of me!"

Tenay is incredulous, as it was Laree who sought Raven out, and anyone with a simple knowledge of TNA history knows what.

"I'm a good girl. A country girl. I like riding horses and walking barefoot in the grass, but I was tortured for so long that I didn't know the difference between Mickie James and Alexis Laree! The torn jeans, the pantyhose, the low cut t-shirts, the heavy eyeliner...I looked in the mirror and I was DISGUSTED with myself, and Jeff here, he saw that. He didn't kidnap me last month...he SAVED me. Jeff Jarrett brought me to a safe haven. He detoxed me. He let me sit until every last ounce of Alexis Laree was out of my system. Jeff Jarrett is a good man. A southern gentleman. A SAVIOR. A better man than Raven. Raven tried to ruin my life. Jeff Jarrett...well, he's the only man I need in my life now."

OVERALL RATING: 76%. Mickie James gained overness from this segment.

Mickie turns to Jarrett, grabs him, and the duo start making out, to the disgust of the crowd. As the fans boo and throw things at the couple, the music of SHANE DOUGLAS hits! THE FRANCHISE walks out onto the ramp, and the crowd pops even louder when they see that DAN MAFF is standing with him.

"Jeff. Alexis."

"My name is MICKIE! MICKIE!"

Mickie James pouts, jumping up and down like a little girl.

"Whatever your name is, save your grabass for your dressing room. Because I'm out here to break up your party. You might think that you've got a happy ending to your story, but what you did to Raven last week is merely a chapter in that book. I'm here to announce that at Victory Road, Jeff, I've signed you to a match with a new signing of man. A man that you're very familiar with. The man who is standing next to me right now. At Victory Road, YOU, Jeff Jarrett, will take on the newest TNA superstar...DAN MAFF!"

"WHAT!?!? You signed that thug! What's wrong with you, Douglas!?"

"What's wrong with ME? It seems to me like YOU'RE the one who sicced PERRY SATURN on a man who doesn't even work here! Instead of letting security take care of it, you took the law into your own hands. So as far as I'm concerned, if you're THAT intent on getting your hands on Dan Maff, then we'll make it official. One on one, at Victory Road!"

Maff cracks his neck and smiles, then makes the cutthroat gesture before pointing at Jarrett. Jarrett drops the mic and can't believe his bad luck, while Mickie tries to calm him down and screams at Douglas for what he's done. Maff vs. Jarrett, official for Victory Road!

OVERALL RATING: 76%. Dan Maff gained overness from this segment.

JAY BRISCOE vs. CHRIS HARRIS

The recent war between the Briscoes and America's Most Wanted stems from one goal...both want the NWA World Tag Team Titles. The Briscoes won an amazing ladder match against the BACKSEAT BOYZ to become number one contenders, but when AMW lost the belts to TERRY FUNK and RAVEN, they refused to get back in line. This match shows why AMW shouldn't take the Briscoes lightly, as Jay was able to counter Harris' more brawling style with smooth technique. Harris gets a near fall after a spear, but when he picks Briscoe up for the Catatonic, Briscoe slides out and reverses to a JAY DRILLER, spiking Harris on his head! The crowd counts along with the referee, and jump to their feet when Briscoe is announced the winner!

**1/2

MATCH QUALITY: 75%
CROWD REACTION: 84%
OVERALL RATING: 81%

As Briscoe celebrates with his "coach", BILL ALFONSO, his music is cut off...and replaced by TERRY FUNK's music! The Hardcore Legend, one half of the World Tag Team Champions, comes out onto the ramp.

"Jay Briscoe, you and your brother have really shown me something the last few weeks. Now, it's no secret that I've had my wars with people named Brisco in the past, but you two...you're something else. You've got heart, you've got drive, and you can lead this company into the future. So at Victory Road, let me personally tell you that I've been in contact with Raven, and at that pay per view we are going to give you the title shot you deserve. I know that you boys are gonna bring the fight, but you bet your ass that this old man and his partner...we're gonna bring it back to you."

Jay nods his head at Funk, who disappears backstage. The crowd cheers wildly, as Harris looks sour at ringside. Briscoes vs. Funk and Raven, for the NWA World Tag Team Titles, at Victory Road!

OVERALL RATING: 81%

JEFF JARRETT vs. SABU

Jarrett heads to the ring accompanied by Saturn and Mickie James, angered by Shane Douglas' decision to not only hire Dan Maff, but book him against Jarrett at Victory Road! Jarrett tries his best to take his frustration out on the former ECW World Champion, but Sabu can not only take a beating, but dish it out as well. Jarrett low bridges Sabu on a charge, and the Homicidal, Genocidal, Suicidal superstar spills to the floor...and Jarrett keeps the ref at bay while VADER hits ringside and grabs Sabu, hitting a few punches and then posting him...then splashing him against the post! Vader rolls Sabu back in, and Jarrett picks up his limp body and drops him with The Stroke, getting the pin. Vader backs off laughing, watching as Jarrett, Saturn, and James leer over Sabu...but Dan Maff comes sprinting down the ramp and into the ring, standing between Sabu and Jarrett's crew. Saturn wants to go, but Jarrett holds him back, and the trio take the high road, as Maff stands firm in center ring.

*1/4

MATCH QUALITY: 64%
CROWD REACTION: 77%
OVERALL RATING: 73%

As the trio back up the ramp, SHANE DOUGLAS appears on the TNATron. "Jarrett, you think you've got carte blanche around here, and it's gotten old REAL fast. Now, someone took me out a few months ago, and all signs point to you. Now, maybe it wasn't you personally, but you do have a pit bull named Perry Saturn at your beck and call. Well, next week, you can let him off his leash for a match, because Perry Saturn, you're going to fight next week...against DAN MAFF!"

Saturn turns back to the ring and looks at Maff, while Jarrett and Mickie James scowl at the TNATron. Saturn vs. Maff, next week!

OVERALL RATING: 73%

In the locker room, BILL ALFONSO is telling MARK and JAY BRISCOE how proud he is of them, and hyping them up on their upcoming NWA World Tag Team Title shot at Victory Road...when they're jumped by CHRIS HARRIS and JAMES STORM! Storm flings Alfonso into a locker, then he and Harris stomp the Briscoes down, leaving them laying in the locker room, and leaving without saying a word!

OVERALL RATING: 73%

NWA WORLD TITLE: AJ STYLES (c) (w/ DON CALLIS) vs. ACE STEEL

Tenay notes that Styles wants to remain "on his game" despite Jerry Lynn's attempts to take advantage of the situation, such as what he did last week. The challenge of Steel proves to be a worthy one, but AJ makes sure that Steel doesn't take him lightly. AJ uses a modified version of his reverse DDT (flipping out of a back suplex attempt, instead of hitting a quebrada), then picks Steel up and hits the Styles Clash for the pin. AJ takes the World Title and raises it high above his head, shouting to the crowd "this is mine! it's mine!" as IMPACT! comes to a close.

***1/2

MATCH QUALITY: 88%
CROWD REACTION: 80%
OVERALL RATING: 84%

OVERALL SHOW RATING: 76%

We got a 1.16 rating for 'TNA Impact!'!
The attendance level was 2002 people.
We made $60060 from ticket sales.

[zackmalibu]

So I did the 2 shows building up to the first big PPV, Turning Point, but wasn't truly satisfied with either. My goal was to get to the big PPV and the new month, and also work on building up some of the younger/fresher talent. So I'll post the overall ratings for those shows and list the bullet points of major angles from there.

I'll also be experimenting with a new format for the diary, where the shows are written up as if I'm reviewing them. For anyone who reads Figure Four Weekly, think of it as an Alvarez/Bryan's Friend Vince type review. The Turning Point entry will start with that format. Just let me know what you guys enjoy reading more...the way it is now or the new form.

Bullet points for the buildup to Turning Point!

May 19th show: 76% OVERALL:

-Father Mitchell and the Devil's Duo cut a promo stating how they have been nothing less than dominant, and how the next goal was to reign supreme as the World Tag Team Champions. When Mitchell got to the point about how no other team even compares, one team took exception...the Backseat Boyz (face turn for Acid and Kashmere).

-Shane Douglas announced that Christopher Daniels is no longer touring Japan with the X Title, and at Turning Point he would put that belt on the line against the undefeated CM PUNK!

-Perry Saturn defeated Dan Maff, with help from both Mickie James and Jeff Jarrett

-The Briscoes/AMW war heated up, as Jay beat Chris Harris, but Storm defeated Mark via nefarious means.

-Upset about his earning an X Title shot, CM Punk was attacked by Michael Shane and Jason Jett, the Glory Boys!

For the May 26th show (79% OVERALL)

-CM Punk got some backup in the form of old friend Ace Steel, however the Glory Boys cheated their way to victory, pinning Ace to take the match.

-DICK TOGO debuted, being directed by Don Callis to attack Jerry Lynn mere days before Lynn challenged AJ Styles for the NWA World Title!

-Raven, set to defend the NWA World Tag Team Titles at Turning Point, returned to team with his opponents, the Briscoes, and do battle with AMW and Jeff Jarrett, ending when Raven got the pin on Chris Harris.

-In the final scene of the show before Turning Point, AJ Styles and Jerry Lynn had a confrontation which saw AJ hit a beltshot on Lynn and leave him laying!

All this is leading into TNA's first 3 hour pay per view event, TURNING POINT!

The official Turning Point card:

The Devil's Duo (Kash and Psychosis) vs. The Backseat Boys (Trent Acid and Johnny Kashmere)

NWA X TITLE: Christopher Daniels (C) vs. CM Punk

GRUDGE MATCH: Jeff Jarrett vs. Dan Maff

NWA WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES: Raven and Terry Funk (C) vs. The Briscoe Brothers

NWA WORLD TITLE: AJ Styles (C) vs. Jerry Lynn

[zackmalibu]

The Malibu Review for: TNA Turning Point 2004

So, here we are. After almost 2 years of trying out the weekly pay per view broadcasts, TNA has turned the corner (oh, Turning Point...I GET IT!) recently by securing a prime time TV deal, and a monthly PPV clearance. IMPACT! airs on Wednesdays on the Urban American network (which I had to see if I even got, but luckily I do). Their first pay per view offering has been built up well, and you can see they are trying to get the new characters over while still utilizing some of the more passe' talent (Jeff Jarrett, I'm looking at you). Anyways, we've got pizza, chips, soda, and alcohol (in case I need it), so let's see what TNA has to offer up.

THE DEVIL'S DUO vs. THE BACKSEAT BOYZ

The Backseats turned babyface 2 weeks ago on IMPACT! due to the fact that they've been getting their fair share of cheers since their feud with the Briscoes back on the weekly PPV's. I'm confused as to why a predominantly male crowd would cheer for a team with a name like that, but maybe I'm just behind the times. This Devil's Duo angle has given a new lease on life to both Kash and Psychosis, and I'm loving how they're both supposed to be insane, but JAMES MITCHELL is the one who helps them "channel" it. Back to the match. If every PPV ever opened with a match like this, I'd give everything a thumbs up. They did the old Rock N' Roll Express heat sequence, as Kash and Psychosis kept double teaming Kashmere (not that way...one backseat joke is enough for this paragraph) until the hot tag to Acid. Great finish that saw Acid go for his Yakuza kick on Psychosis and hit it, but Psychosis fell out to the apron. Kash, the illegal man, had dumped Kashmere, but Acid spun him around, went for a powerbomb, only to have Kash flip out of that and hit his Moneymaker, leaving Acid prone to Psychosis' guillotine legdrop. A great, great match. As the BSB were getting up, Mitchell pointed his cane and urged his men to attack, leaving the BSB laying, which I'm assuming is a way to continue their feud. I'm cool with that.

****1/2 (MQ: 97% CR 87% OVERALL: 92%)

CHRISTOPHER DANIELS interview. He was sitting in a chair in the locker room, and the X Division Title had its own chair. That's awfully chivalrous. Daniels talked about how he won the X Title, he took it with him to Japan, defended it there, and made it even more prestigious...and now Shane Douglas matches him up against with some "skeezoid" that's been in TNA for 2 minutes. SKEEZOID. Daniels says that he's the X Division champion and he'll defend that belt everywhere he goes, around the world, but that tonight, taking on CM Punk is just a vacation from those duties.

OVERALL: 75%

NWA X TITLE: CHRISTOPHER DANIELS (C) vs. CM PUNK

The crowd has taken to clapping and stomping along with the beat to Punk's song. When the bell rang, a loud "CM PUNK" chant broke out, and Christopher Daniels went out, grabbed the mic, and politely asked the crowd to be quiet...complete with "ssshhh". CHRISTOPHER DANIELS RULES. Of course, that just made the crowd chant for Punk even louder, and Daniels sold it, blocking his ears and even stopping a collar and elbow tie up, saying he can't concentrate. This led to a spot where Punk boxed Daniels' ears, which was his opening to take control. Another great match on this here first three hour pay per view. Lots of counters, and Mike Tenay mentioned the fact that these two are familiar with each other from the indy circuit, and how Daniels is the crafty veteran. A great near fall where Daniels went for his moonsault (named the Best Moonsault Ever, which I may have to agree with) and missed. Punk hoisted him up for the Go To Sleep (another move name that I love), but Daniels squirmed free and rolled him up using the tights...for two! The crowd almost crapped themselves on that one. Both men get to their feet, and when Daniels went for an enzugiri, Punk ducked, then scooped a groggy Daniels up for the Go 2 Sleep, and hit it for the win. The crowd popped huge for Punk's win, and Punk sold it as something special, while Daniels held his head in shock and agony. THIS MATCH RULED. They realized they have something with Punk, Daniels sold the loss well, and Punk got over even bigger. ME WANT REMATCH!

****1/2 (MQ: 100%/CR: 76% OVERALL: 88%) CM Punk and the NWA X Title both gained overness from this match.

I should note that we are 2 matches in, and both were easily over four stars. People have their working boots on tonight, and I know for a fact some of the people from the Urban American network are in the building watching.

JEFF JARRETT vs. DAN MAFF

The graphic before the match billed this as a GRUDGE MATCH. Mickie James looks so much hotter now that she's cleaned up. I'm not sure about pairing her with Jarrett, since it's well known he's married with kids, but it's a different twist for a guy that the crowd has grown tired of. Maff's role of the street tough who is looking for revenge on behalf of D Lo Brown is a good one, but they need to flesh his character out more if they're not bringing D Lo back. I'd been surprised by how much Maff has been able to get over on JJ lately, but I had a feeling that it was leading to JJ getting the win tonight. I don't have a problem with that, because it keeps the feud going for now, and Maff is different from most of the other guys they're pushing right now like Punk, AJ, Lynn, and the Briscoes. The finish was the classic Rude/Warrior spot from WM5, as Maff suplexed Jarrett back in the ring, but Mickie pulled Maff's feet out from under him, and held them down for the pin. Jarrett rolled out of the ring and ran up the ramp with Mickie in tow, and a wild eyed Maff stalked them, throwing chairs and calling Jarrett back out. THIS FEUD MUST CONTINUE.

**1/4 (MQ: 77% CR: 73% OVERALL: 75%)

I'm sitting here wondering why Maff, the badass street thug, wasn't able to kick MICKIE JAMES off of his legs.

They aired a cool video package documenting the Funk/Raven pairing and how it came to be, paralleled by the debut and rise of the Briscoes. Really well done, focusing on how Funk has been winding down, but represents NWA:TNA as a champion and inspiration to the new guys.

NWA WORLD TAG TEAM TITLES: RAVEN and TERRY FUNK vs. THE BRISCOE BROTHERS (w/ COACH BILL ALFONSO)

I love how Alfonso was given a bit of a gimmick overhaul as the "coach" of Mark and Jay Briscoe, two standout amateur wrestlers and high school football players, and now there's talk of putting him with Sabu so that Sabu has a mouthpiece again. That's even more of an odd pairing than the Raven/Funk duo. Anyways, THIS MATCH RULED. It told a great story, that being that Raven, still "broken" in body and spirit from what Jarrett and Mickie James have done to him, and Funk, the old codger, couldn't keep up with the Briscoes. Then it showed how Mark and Jay, no matter how skilled they are at wrestling, couldn't get the edge when it came to brawling and just mauling their opponents. Raven hit a twisting pescado onto both Briscoes, and then Terry Funk, the crazy old man, hit a MOONSAULT ON THE BRISCOES TO THE OUTSIDE! Funk was clutching his knee after that and I thought for a minute he was done for sure, but he not only managed to get up, but rolled Mark Briscoe into the ring and then hit a kneedrop FROM THE TOP ROPE. Everyone in the living room here popped for that, and popped when Mark kicked out just before three. Alfonso was blowing his whistle through all of this, which the front row must have loved, because I wanted to throw my pizza slice at the TV. Raven went for a baseball slide on Jay, who yanked him out of the ring, and the two laid each other out with a double clothesline on the floor. This left Funk and Mark, and Funk had Mark in the corner giving him the ten punches, only to get dropped with an inverted atomic drop, then PLANTED with the "Marking Out" (cut throat suplex, and that's a great name) for the pin. Jay rolled into the ring, a look of shock and happiness on his face, and his brother immediately hugged him. Alfonso went nuts, blowing the damn whistle and waving both tag titles in the air before handing them to the brothers. Funk helped Raven up on the floor, and the two veterans got back in the ring, standing behind the Briscoes while they celebrated. I was half-expecting a heel turn, but instead, Funk shook the hands of both Briscoes, while Raven clapped and nodded to them. The former champs left, and the Briscoes each climbed a turnbuckle and raised their belts high. GREAT match, far better than I expected going in. Funk and Raven had nothing to lose (Raven is easily the most over guy in TNA right now) by putting them over, and they did it. THIS IS HOW YOU PUT PEOPLE OVER. I hope people in Stamford were watching. At any rate, THIS PAY PER VIEW IS 4 FOR 4!

***1/4 (MQ: 85% CR: 83% OVERALL: 84%) The NWA World Tag Team Titles have gained in image.

Don Callis was backstage with AJ Styles. AJ was sitting in a chair in his locker room with a towel over his head, like when he walks out with the hood on. He had the World Title in his lap. I guess the World Title doesn't deserve its own chair, like Daniels had for the X Title? Or maybe Daniels took the last free chair for his belt and forgot to return it? Anyways, Callis (who is an incredibly smart man and could be making a lot more outside of wrestling, but truly loves this business) talked about how at one time, Jerry Lynn was the "New F'N Show" (Lynn's ECW nickname during his feud with Rob Van Dam) but people have turned to another channel. The Phenomenal Channel. I don't think we get that with Comcast. Callis summed it up by saying "it's not about being new, or old. It's about being the best, and that's what AJ Styles does best. It's time to put the old dog down, and show the world why AJ Styles is everything you think you are and more."

OVERALL RATING: 79%

NWA WORLD TITLE: AJ STYLES (C) (w/ DON CALLIS) vs. JERRY LYNN

They pushed Lynn as a former World Champion that only briefly tasted that glory (ECW) and was desperate to prove he can hang at that level. Tenay talked about how Lynn grew up watching the NWA and told himself as a child that one day he'd hold that belt. This had a big match feel to it, as both men made their entrance, and Jeremy Borash made the introductions after the fact, standing in the ring like a boxing announcer, with each man in a neutral corner. Callis wasn't lying when he said that AJ was at his best every day, because THIS MATCH RULED. EVERYTHING ABOUT IT RULED. It was similar in ways to the tag title match (Briscoes can't keep up with Funk/Raven and vice versa), but not a total rehash. This had Lynn going for move after move, only to have it countered, but when AJ tried something, Lynn was the "veteran" that knew his way out of it. The first five minutes were nothing but stalemates, similar to the Malenko/Guerrero matches from ECW. Both men also went for their finishers early, but they were blocked. AJ got the advantage when he chop blocked Lynn after a leapfrog, and started working over the knee, telling the story that if he takes away Lynn's aerial ability, AJ can keep him grounded and then overwhelm him with flying moves. AJ went for the figure four, only to have Lynn cradle him with a small package for two. As they got up, AJ got frustrated and caught a drop toehold that sent him face first into the mat. He rolled out of the ring to converse with Callis, and Lynn, doing a hop/run to sell the bad knee, hit a tope through the ropes onto both of them. Lynn rolled AJ back in, and went to the top, but the knee injury made him move slower. AJ got up and hit a superplex, rolled through and brought Lynn to his feet, then hit a Styles Clash...and Lynn kicked out at LITERALLY the last possible millisecond. I mean, you could not have timed it more perfectly. AJ, flustered, grabbed Lynn and went for another Styles Clash, but Lynn countered into a cradle for two. AJ grabbed a waistlock while in that position, rolled over and tried for another Styles Clash, but Lynn backdropped him over the ropes to the apron. Lynn got to his feet, limping, and AJ tried for his springboard forearm, but Lynn hit a dropkick to catch him, and Lynn, selling his knee through all of this, picked him up and dropped him on his head with the Cradle Piledriver for the win. AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING. Fireworks went off, Lynn got the belt, and he cried as if he had achieved a lifelong dream. AJ, dejected, didn't pout, scream, cry...he just looked sad as Callis helped him to the back. There was a great shot of AJ, heading up the ramp, looking back at the ring as Lynn mouthed "thank you" to the crowd and celebrated, and AJ just had a scowl that you KNEW he was thinking thoughts of hate.

****1/2 (MQ: 94% CR: 86% OVERALL: 90%). Both men and the title gained overness.

This was, easily, the best PPV of the year thus far, and unless we get some REALLY solid entries in the next six months, the clear cut winner. EVERY match was awesome in one way or another (even the Maff/JJ match was worked well and told a story), the wrestlers worked like they cared, new people were put over, and the crowd ate it all up. A million thumbs up, and if you're reading this without seeing it, get the replay or buy the DVD. ME LOVE TNA!

OVERALL SHOW RATING: 83%

We got a 0.63 buy rate for 'TNA Turning Point'!
The attendance was 8118 people.
We made $1575000 from pay-per-view revenue.
We made $324720 from ticket sales.

[zackmalibu]

Notes from the WON/F4W:

The TNA Turning Point PPV is getting rave reviews from everyone I talked to. It really was an amazing show, and I know that those backstage, as well as the people from the Urban American network were all very pleased.

Homicide, who had been in TNA's developmental territory and was ready to be called up as the tag team partner of Dan Maff (the working plan was to branch the Jarrett/Maff feud into one with America's Most Wanted) has opted to take up a tour offer from All Japan.

Also, TNA was negotiating to bring the SAT's back as a heel team, but Joel still has bad feelings about being let go a while back. TNA has offered a significant push to Jose as a singles wrestler since the X Division could use some heel talent for the guys like Punk, Kendrick, and Steel to play off of.

WWE, looking to combat TNA's rise, have signed both Randy "Macho Man" Savage and The Sandman this past week. Both were men that haven't been on the WWE's radar in quite some time (there has long been rumored bad blood between Savage and Vince McMahon), but with McMahon retiring recently, it seems to have opened the door for some of those "blacklisted" talents to come aboard. We've heard reports of them signing Sandman to team with Tommy Dreamer. Savage is being pushed as the "dream partner" of The Rock for Summerslam, to challenge Triple H and Ric Flair.