00:00-00:02 – Nitro’s opening video starts with a quick reminder of the draft and the fact that WCW is now under the control of both the McMahon children and Eric Bischoff.
0:02-0:07 - A familiar tune plays out over the PA system that is none other than the theme for the nWo. Without the fans even having being given the chance to settle after the opening credits for Nitro the infamous figure that is Eric Bischoff walks out from the back wearing nothing more than the iconic black and white t-shirt. Following Eric out from the back, are fellow nWo members Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, Jeff Jarret and Scott Steiner. The fans seem wary of what to think, of whether to feel positive or negative towards the five men as they enter the ring. As the music stops, all eye are looking towards to the ring as Eric is handed a microphone.
“I have just got one thing to say before I probably begin. Vince McMahon...F**K YOU!” - Eric Bischoff
It is more than clear that the WCW fans are more than happy with that comment, as it has since become public knowledge of how determined Vince was to shutting down WCW for good. Not only are the fans cheering, but the rest of the New World Order are patting Eric on the back, as if to congratulate him for accomplishing a grand feat.
“However, as much fun as insulting that idiot would be I think it is important for everyone in the back, everyone in attendance tonight and everyone watching from home that the nWo are back and are still very much in control. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the nWo is not only the most famous stable of all time, but also the greatest collaboration of wrestlers currently active today. There isn’t a single group in the WWE, let alone in the back that can match up to the ability of the nWo.” – Eric Bischoff
ARE YOU READY?
YA THINK YOU CAN TELL US WHAT TO DO
YA THINK YOU CAN TELL US WHAT TO WHERE
YOU THINK YOU’RE READY
WELL YOU BETTER GET READY
BOW TO THE MASTERS
BREAK IT DOWN!
As the theme music and video for Degeneration-X plays on the tinatron screen, the majority of the fans in the Gillette are completely going berserk with the fully realisation of what is very much likely about to take place. On the other hand, the nWo don’t look at all happy about the sudden interruption.
“I just realised something Tony, and I can’t believed I have missed this. We have DX and the nWo both in the WCW. How the hell are two groups full of egos going to be able to survive here in WCW?” - Mike Tenay
“I think your asking the wrong question Mike. What I want to know is when pushes comes to shove which one of these groups is going to be still standing?” - Tony Schiavone
As the nWo members seem to be getting more frustrated, the music stops as clear cut message appears on the tinatron screen.
“SUCK IT!”
The crowd cheer at this message, as fury is starting to show on Eric’s face and his fellow stable mates faces.
“At least on thing is confirmed Mike. A war is definitely on the cards!” - Tony Schiavone
Eric Bischoff seems to have given up what was going to be some nWo public address, and seems to be giving orders in the middle of the ring. The first to leaves are Scott Hall and Kevin Nash the outsiders, who are soon followed by Jarret. Steiner and Eric remain in the ring for a while longer, before both men exit together.
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00:07-00:18- WCW Cruiserweight Championship <o></o>
Elimination Tag Scramble Match<o></o>
Grand Master Sexay & Scotty 2 Hotty & Chris Candido & Stevie Richards vs. X-Pac & Billy Kidman & Chavo Guerrero & Jamie Noble<o></o>
Beginning: The start of the match saw in many what the capabilities of some and that that was lacking of others. X-Pac and Stevie Richards were the stand out men for both teams. Unfortunately both members off 2 Cool (Grand Master Sexay & Scotty 2 Hotty) as well as Chavo Guerrero all found themselves being eliminated earlier on from the match.
Middle: With the remove of the excess bodies, the match seemed to grow more open as the skills and talents that are known and expected within the Cruiserweight Division became more apparent. High flying and technical moves came into full fruition, and the two men that had dominated earlier found themselves caught out as both Stevie Richards and X-Pac were eliminated. With a two on one scenario forming, but the knowledge of only one man leaving as champion communications broke down between Kidman and Noble. This went to the point, where Kidman blind sided Noble allowing Candido to eliminate Noble thus making Candido and Kidman the final two.
Finish: Both men gave as good as they could chew, but fatigue was very much beginning to set in as was to expected whilst competing in a match of this nature. Both men had their chances of getting a win, but it seemed that the other man always had that little bit extra in the tank to survive. The match came to abrupt end however when Kidman connected with the Kid Krusher to take the victory.
Winner: Billy Kidman (new WCW Cruiserweight Champion)
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00:18-00:19 – Billy Kidman had quick chat with “Mean Gene” Okerlund, with the topic mostly focusing around his crowning as the new Cruiserweight Champion.
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00:19-00:25 - APA vs. The New Age Outlaws
Beginning: The Outlaws started off the match with a clear advantage, largely down to the fact as a team they are more capable and also more skilled as a pairing of wrestlers. Despite the clear advantage that the Outlaws had, both Farooq and Bradshaw came to their partners’ aid at the necessary time.
Middle: The coming to their partners’ aid mentality seemed to work in the APA’s favour, as after each save the Acolytes seemed to grow in confidence after each save. At the same time the Outlaws seemed to getting more and more frustrated. The APA thought they had won, when they hit the Aider Powerbomb on Road Dogg who somehow managed to kick out at the last possible moment to the APA’s amazement.
Finish: It seemed that the most for the APA to capitalize had past. The Outlaws as representatives of the DX really turned up the heat though, to the point that the APA looked like a bunch of jobbers. Farooq found himself thrown over the top rope only for Bradshaw to be taken out with the Spike Piledriver as the Outlaws took the win.
Winners: The New Age Outlaws
00:25-00:27 – Advertisement Break: something about rims and tyres and other interesting automobile jargon.<o></o>
00:27-00:36 - Tazz vs. Triple H w/ Chyna vs. Mark Jindrak vs. Rikishi
Beginning: The fact that Triple H was taking pat in a WCW match, was enough to turn heads as it was and it was clear that the other three men weren’t too happy that Hunter was being given all the attention. The trend continued; as Triple H remained the centre of attention receiving a gang style take down from the other three men.<o></o>
Middle: It seemed that Triple H had gotten the beating off his life, as he remained grounded trying regain some composure. Mark Jindrak being the youngest man in the match, showed his athleticism and power as pulled a number of suplexes and slams out of his move set to make light work of both Rikishi and Tazz. Tazz showed his resilience, but Jindrak seemed to be running on pure adrenaline.
Finish: Towards the end of the match Jindrak seemed to be running on fumes, and was gradually slowing down. This allowed for Tazz to lock in the Tazzmission, and it looked as if Jindrak was very much on the verge of tapping. At this exact moment, Chyna entered the ring totally distracting the referee who actually missed Jindrak tapping. At the same moment Triple H low blowed Rikishi before going for a quick cover which the referee did pick up on to give his first win as a member of the WCW roster.
Winner: Triple H w/ Chyna<o></o>
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00:36-00:40 - The scene cuts backstage as Shawn Michaels, wearing suit and tie is talking to one of the two female members on the WCW roster Lita.
“You must be a little annoyed not be on the same roster as both Jeff and Matt, how do you think that came about?” - Shawn Michaels
Lita smiles at this question, probably based on the fact that is very well known that she is in a real life relationship Matt Hardy.
“I don’t know to be honest, but I suppose that is just business. You never know, I might be given an offer to rejoin Matt and Jeff because I am sure I will start missing them sooner or later. The important question Shawn is are you returning to the ring or are you remaining more in the back for a while longer.” - Lita
The question is a good one, considering Shawn had been majorly been seen in a wrestling promotion for nearly three whole years. The fact that he had been drafted, suggested very much he still had a contract and so it was evident that it wasn’t just Lita who was waiting in anticipation of his answer.<o></o>
“You know, I first found out I could be involved in the shake up when I got a call from Shane. He told me that unless anything happened I would be drafted as the sixth or seventh pick this was done on that understanding that if he scratched my back, I would do the same for him. Plus I am sure that Vince was less than pleased to hear I had joined WCW.” - Shawn Michaels.
Before Lita could reply, Shawn and Lita both found themselves being interrupted by Scott Hall and Kevin Nash.
“Shawn you haven’t seen the Giant have you?” - Scott Hall
“The Giant? Who the hell is that?” - Shawn Michaels
Kevin is quick to reply.
“Scott you can’t call him that anymore. Ever since that jabroni Hogan forced him out, he is now calling himself the Big Show.” - Kevin Nash
“Really?” - Scott Hall<o></o>
“Yeah. So Shawn have you seen ‘The Big Show’?” - Kevin Nash
Shawn just stares at Nash, as you could cut the tension between them with a knife before he finally replies.
“Sorry Kevin, I have no idea where he is.” - Shawn Michaels
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00:40-0054 - WCW US Championship<o></o>
Chris Benoit vs. Jeff Jarret
Beginning: Jarret and Benoit having both held the US Title were no strangers to each other, considering Jeff had actually won it off Chris in the past, thus allowed for this to me seen as a dream match. Benoit and Jarret began the match at a very face pace and seemed to have an answer and a counter for everything the other man had. At one point, the two just stared at each as they were given a standing ovation from the fans.
<o></o>
Middle: The match remained varied as Benoit utilized his technical and submission skills to his advantage, whilst Jarret countered and reversed with a number of sleeper holds and reverse arms drags of his own. After nearly ten minutes of fighting it seemed that the deadlock had still very much not been broken and both men were on an even par.
Finish: A breakthrough finally came about, when Eric Bischoff came down to the ring and was an instant distraction to Benoit with the knowledge that he was very much in Jarret’s corner due to the fact both men are in the nWo. Jarret looked to have the match wrapped up, as distracted referee thanks to Eric, allowed Jeff to hit the Acoustic Equalizer demolishing the guitar over Benoit’s head. Unfortunately double JJ got rolled over onto his belly during the pin count, as Benoit locked in the Cripple Cross Face which left Jeff tapping.
Winner: Chris Benoit (new US Champion)
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00: 54-00:57 - The Dudley Boyz are standing outside the door marked “Acolytes Protection Agency” as they break out in conversation.
“Do you really need to do this? We have never asked for outside help before.” - D-Von Dudley
“D-Von as much as it sickens me to say this, there is only so much two men can do. Especially, when facing off against the like the nWo. Nash and Hall are going to be tough, but the likes of Jarret, Eric and Steiner interrupting could cost us those titles. And those are the only current members were know who are involved with the black and white. These idiots are just going to have to be our insurance policy.” - Bubba Ray Dudley<o></o>
“You make a good point Bubba, wouldn’t hurt to have someone cover our backs.” - D-Von Dudley<o></o>
Bubba knocks on the door, before push men open it and walk in as the camera focuses in on the APA sign on the door once more.
<o></o>
00:57-00:59 – Advertisement Break: Something about beauty products, a ploy clearly targeting the female demographic.
00:59-01:01 - Mean Gene interviewed Benoit briefly backstage, as Benoit had the strap hanging over his shoulder for the third time in his career. The most memorable comments from the Rapid Wolverine was:
“Whether I win or lose, I always know I have he WCW fans in my corner.” - Chris Benoit
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01:01-1:15 - WCW World Tag Team Championship
The Outsiders w/ Terri Runnels vs. The Dudley Boyz
Beginning: The Outsiders were accompanied to the ring by Terri Runnels who was wearing an nWo t-shirt and was seen to be kissing Nash showing them to be romantically involved and look more than prepared to take on the 9 time former world tag team champions. It was more than clear that there was a lack of respect between the team, likely due to the fact that Nash and Hall made their name here in WCW whilst The Dudleys were made infamous in rival promotion ECW, which had unfortunately since then gone under.
Middle: The action was very gritty, as both teams focused as the want for a tag titles was clearly at the front of all four men’s minds. At a point, the Dudleys looked as if they had the Outsiders caught out which resulted in Steiner and Jarret spilling out from the back. This resulted in the APA following in pursuit as a brawl took place on the entrance ramp as security was brought out to handle the mess as all four were banned from ringside by the referee. Despite, never making the ring the fellow nWo members seemed to have an effect on the Dudleys.<o></o>
Finish: The match proved to be quite a memorable one, as both the Outsiders and the Dudleys showed off both their individual talents and their skills as a tag team always keeping their opponents on their toes and never letting off the pedal. The Dudleys looked like they had the match and the titles in their grasp, after throwing Hall down with all their force but Runnel placed Hall’s hand onto the bottom rope meant that the referee was forced to call a rope break. In the confusion of the decision, D-Von found himself arguing with the referee as Bubba was dropped to the mat with a Jackknife Powerbomb which allowed for the Outsiders to take the victory.
Winners: The Outsiders (new World Tag Team Champions)
01:15-01:18 - As Nash and Hall were handed the titles, making themselves the WCW Tag Team Champions for the seventh time in their careers. Nash asked for a microphone as it was more than clear that had something to say.<o></o>
“Now for nearly the last hour Scott and I have been trying to find Paul Wight, known to us as the Giant but know going along with the name The Big Show. You see me and Scott especially want to apologize to him. If you can hear us Paul we are apologizing to you. We never wanted you to leave the nWo, let alone WCW. We never wanted to do what we did to you, but our hand was forced by the likes of that snake Hogan. We never liked that idiot, but he had power and influence and at the time he had our balls in the vice grip. Now we are extending out our hand and we want you to re-join us and become once again the big man of the black and white once more. We need you Paul.” - Kevin Nash
“Well it seems that the New World Order want to bring the Big Show into the fold, and I can’t blame them. During his short stint as a member of the WWF he showed he was more than capable of being a great competitor without being kept down by the likes of the selfish force that was Hollywood Hogan.” - Tony Schiavone
“What worries me, is that although Jarret fell short tonight the fact that the Outsiders are the tag team a champion is going to give the nWo a whole lot more power than they did at the start of show.” - Mike Tenay<o></o>
01:18-01:20 - Advertisement Break: An advert hyping up the comeback of the Nitro girls to WCW in the next couple of weeks. <o></o>
01:20-01:23 - At the end of the advertisement break, the camera cuts to an office backstage as both Shane and Stephanie McMahon smile at the camera for the first time as the owners and financial benefactors of World Championship Wrestling.
“Hi my name is Shane McMahon...” - Shane McMahon
“...and my name is Stephanie McMahon, and we are the children of none other than Vincent Kennedy McMahon the owner of the World Wrestling Federation. Now recently we became the owners of WCW and so it is in our best interest that this company and more importantly this show that is Monday Night Nitro remains as strong as possible. Not only will the rejuvenation of the Monday Night wars be a battle of the WWF against WCW but it will be the McMahon children against our father. And I think that it is more than clear we have the best interest of the wrestling world in mind.” - Stephanie McMahon
“And so we would like to cut to our first power play as WCW owners. Tonight’s next contest will be a six man tag match. We know that all six men are more than capable of achieving world championship gold so we are putting down this card on the table. The winning trio will be given a chance in the next few weeks a chance to earn themselves a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. The losers however, will simply have to reassess themselves as main eventers that is all.” - Shane McMahon
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01:23-01:37 - Six Man Tornado Tag
The British Bull Dog & The Big Show & Mick Foley vs. Ric Flair & Dallas Page & Scott Steiner<o></o><o></o>
Beginning: The problem that was clear, as neither trio really new each other’s dynamics as a team as both teams struggled to gel together and work in any unison. Steiner and Flair seemed to have the biggest problem out of everybody which was clearly not a good thing as they were on the same team. The best action early on, came from the small amount of action that took place between Foley and Dallas Page.
<o></o>
Middle: After a while the realization of what the McMahons had said, seemed to fall into place as the motivation of a world championship shot really seem to give all six men the drive that the fans expected of them. All six men put their heart into the match, and refused to let the other team get an advantage as started actually working as a team rather than just a group of individuals.
Finish: Communications really broke down between Steiner and Flair as they started to throw punches at each other, and seemed to lose totally all interest in the actual match. This left Dallas Page in the unfortunate situation of taking on three men. He managed to tackle the likes of the Big Show and Mick Foley but he came up against a brick wall in Davey “Boy” Smith who took him out with a Running Powerslam to take home the victory.
Winners: The British Bull Dog & The Big Show & Mick Foley
01:37-01:39 - Advertisement Break: Everyone loves monster truck racing and free cheese burgers. <o></o>
01:39-01:42 - We cut backstage for the last segment of the night that has Stephanie McMahon walk into Eric Bischoff’s office. Eric looks up from his paper, clearly not happy to be disturbed especially by a McMahon despite what had been said on air previously.
“How can I help you Stephanie?” - Eric Bischoff<o></o>
“I just want to remind you Eric, that you have been put back in the position of General Manager to run WCW and not the nWo. I hope you understand that?” - Stephanie McMahon<o></o>
“Of course I do Stephanie; I am just as always looking to get those vital ratings. We don’t want your father to end up looking better after this matter transition.” - Eric Bischoff
“Of course not! Well that is all.” - Stephanie McMahon
Stephanie walks out of the room, and closes the door as Eric just shakes his head before laughing.
“Just another stupid naive little girl.” - Eric Bischoff
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01:42-01:57 -WCW World Heavyweight Championship<o></o>
Booker T vs. Sting vs. Bill Goldberg
Beginning: The match starts off with both men wary on their toes, and trying to keep one eye on each of their opponents. The clear pattern is the worry of being taken out to early in the match, and then not being able to get back into the match. Sting ad Goldberg seem to be fronting the action much more early on, whilst Booker T seems to just be happy to almost watch.
Middle: As soon as punches has connected, and tempers had boiled the real fighting began with all three men caring little much for their personal selves and much more concentred with causing as much damage and pain to their opponents as possible. The most notable point, was when Booker T connected with a spinning kick to Goldberg only to connect with a scissors kick to Sting moments later and was very lucky not to take the strap their and then.
Finish: Goldberg was very much on the rampage, and was making light work of Booker T and seemed to have him up against the wall begging for mercy. In the confusion, with the referee attending to see if Booker was alright Sting took his infamous baseball bat and seemed to knock out Goldberg, before moving over to Booker to lock in the Scorpion Deathlock which had Booker tapping within seconds.
Winner: Sting (new WCW World Heavyweight Championship)<o></o>
01:57-01:59 - As Sting was handed the title belt, and became the World Champion for the seventh time in an already illustrious career. He lifts it above his head, only to stare towards the main stage as the Outsiders of Nash and Hall are both giving him round of applause. Sting as a look that show he is trying to ignore it, but the signifier of what is taking place is clear. Moments later, the screen fades to black.
END SHOW
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Linear Mode
