00:00-00:02 - Nitro's opening videos begins, which is now a highlight reel showing all the talent that World Championship Wresting offers with a lot of fast edits and non-diagetic music.
00:02-00:09 - Backstage, Sean Waltman currently wrestling under the name of X-Pac is walking backstage in the direction of the ring as he is scheduled to take place in the first contest of the night against current Cruiserweight Champion, Billy Kidman in a non-title match. As Sean looks up from the ground though, he is interrupted by a cough and looks up too see non other than Scott Hall blocking his path.
“What you want Scott?” - X-Pac
Scott looks shocked, from the body language he is giving out alone.
“Why so hostile Sean. We go back a long time, so I don't see why you need to be so confrontational.” - Scott Hall
Considering what took place at the end of last week's Nitro, it was clear that X-Pac had more than enough reasons to be confused considering he had been part of a gang style beat down on both members of the Outsiders including Hall. Clearly he had more than enough reasons to be suspicions.
“I am going to ask again Scott, what do you want?” - X-Pac
“Its quite simple Sean. I want to put water underneath the bridge. Back in the 90s; me, you, Kevin, Hunter and Shawn were running things. We were making all the big decisions in the WWF. I just don't understand why we need to fight each other. We used to be friends. Don't you remember when you came to WCW as Syxx and you at one point were a stand in member of the Outsiders when Kevin got injured. We're like brothers, I don't want bad blood to break us up Sean.” - Scott Hall
“Scott as long as your run about taking orders from Eric, we can't be friends. Me and Hunter can't deal with all the politics bullsh*t that, that idiot spouts out his ass. When you’re free of his shackles, come talk to me.” - X-Pac
“One last thing before you go Sean.” - Scott Hall
“What?” - X-Pac
“Look behind you.” - Scott Hall
As X-Pac turned around, he was totally obliterated as Jeff Jarret brought his guitar over Waltman's hitting the Acoustic Equalizer! Jeff Jarret smiles, as he walks away as Scott Hal squats down and looks at X-Pac.
“This is your last warning Sean. Your either with us, or against us. World Championship Wresting is New World Order country, and it is about time you and your buddies learnt that.” - Scott Hall
Hall walks off, chuckling as he walks away from X-Pac body lying unconscious on the floor.
- - - - - - - -
00:09-00:11 - As Billy Kidman came out to kick off the show, instead of X-Pac coming out Larry Zybszko came out from the back to inform the fan that would not be competing tonight, due to currently receiving medical attention and instead that Jamie Noble had been chosen to be the last minute replacement.
00:11-00:18 - Singles Match
Billy Kidman vs. Jamie Noble
Beginning: Noble seemed to have an the upper hand to begin with, largely due to the fact the Kidman's had probably scouted out X-Pac before hand. The momentum really went in Noble's favour as he connected with a Diving Leg Drop off the turnbuckle.
Middle: Kidman though regained his composure very quickly, showing to everyone why exactly he is the champion in the division. Noble though he had caught out Billy a number of times, but paid for his cockiness with a number of times including being met with a truly solid and neck shattering Kid Factor!
Finish: At this stage of the match, it was more than evident that Kidman was totally in control, and that sooner of later he was going to have his arm lifted up by the referee to signal him as the winner as Noble just look tired and out of place in comparison to him. The match finally ended, when Billy splashed down on to Noble with a Shooting Star Press!
Winner: Billy Kidman
00:18-00:21 - After the match, Billy Kidman called for a microphone as he clearly had something he wanted to get off his chest.
“You know its is a shame that X-Pac couldn't come out and face me tonight, as I would have very much looked forward to taking him on and proving to everyone that I am the most talented man in the Cruiserweight Division. I already put down Candido and tonight I put down Noble but I want to show everyone that Billy Kidman isn't afraid of anybody. And so I send out a challenge to X-Pac. Me and you, one on one, with the Cruiserweight Championship on the line at Souled Out. After I beat you, I can will have proven why I earnt my place...in the New World Order!” - Billy Kidman
The crowd is stunned, as Kidman drops his microphone only to rip off this t-shirt, and reveal a nWo black and white one underneath it as he justs smile holding the Cruiserweight Title in his hands.
- - - - - - - -
00:21-00:30 - Tag Match
The Outsiders (Kevin Nash & Scott Hall) vs. Too Cool (Grandmaster Sexay & Scotty 2 Hotty) w/ Rikishi
Beginning: The match started with Scotty 2 Hotty pitted in the ring with “Big Sexy” Kevin Nash. Scotty stood no chance, and despite it best efforts found himself totally beaten into a pulp by Nash included being given a One-armed pendulum backbreaker! The Outsiders didn't let off the pressure however, as Hall was quickly tagged only to amount even more pressure onto Scotty 2 Hotty.
Middle: Scotty 2 Hotty carried on receiving the beating of a life time, and the beating was back and forth as both members of the Outsiders were utilizing quick tags in such a way that suppressed Scotty and didn't allow him to tag in a very fresh Grandmaster Sexay. Somehow, Scotty managed to get away and tag in his partner. But all it resulted in was disappointment, as Grandmaster Sexay got floored with a big boot by Kevin Nash.
Finish: Tag team rules seemed have been thrown out the window, and both Nash and Hall were making light work of both active members of Too Cool. Rikishi seemed to have had enough, as he entered the ring but was promptly thrown back out of the ring by both the tag team champions. Scotty 2 Hotty was given the same treatment, before Grandmaster Sexay was ended with a Jackknife Powerbomb
Winners: The Outsiders (Kevin Nash & Scott Hall)
00:30-00:37 - Both members of the Outsiders looked pretty smug with themselves, as they stood in the ring holding up their tag team titles for all to see.
“I think it is time people learnt that the New World Order will always have the final says in terms of decisions that are made in World Championship Wrestling. We were running things before, and just because some punks who call themselves DX has come through the doors in the last couple of weeks they think that they are calling the shots now. Scott buddy, why don't you tell everyone what the nWo do to people who step on our turf.” - Kevin Nash
Nash smiles, as he hands over the microphone
“We man up, we stand our ground and we put everything we have on the line showing that we really aren't scared of the enemy. That we won't back down from a fight. That is why, at Souled Out we are calling Degeneration-X out, in particular the New Age Outlaws. If you two rednecks think you've got what is takes you will take us on for our tag team titles at Souled Out in a couple of weeks time. But then, it isn't just that simple is it Kevin?” - Scott Hall
“No because it won't just be any match at Souled Out. It will be a steel cage match, so I hope you to Bubs are ready for it.” - Kevin Nash
00:37-00:40 – Advertisement Break: Souled Out up and coming PPV!
00:40-00:46 - As we come back from the breaks, a very happy looking Eric Bischoff is clapping at the monitor in his office clearly applauding the performance of the Outsiders in their match. As he turns up, he sees none other than Shane McMahon enter into his office.
“What do you want Shane?” - Eric Bischoff
The look on the son of VKM, clearly shows he didn't come on a social call.
“Eric do remember what Stephanie told you a couple of weeks ago?” - Shane McMahon
“I not quite sure that I do Shane, but I am sure you are going to remind me anyway.” - Eric Bischoff
“She clearly reminded you that you were the General Manager of WCW and not the New World Order. Now clearly you don't seem to be able to differentiate between the two, and so I am bringing in someone to balance things out. The person in question, is working for the nWo and certainly isn't for DX. The person in question is going to be representing World Championship Wrestling.” - Shane McMahon
Shane then smiled as he looked at Eric.
“I am really sorry I had to do this Eric.” - Shane McMahon
As Shane turned and left, the anger on Eric's face was more than clear.
- - - - - - - -
00:46-01:02 - “Tony you got any idea who Shane might have employed to be this representative for WCW?” - Mike Tenay
“I really don't know, but if I had to pick I would want someone like Sting to make those sort of judgment calls.” - Tony Schiavone
“As wise as decision that would be, it might not be the wisest thing to give a World Champion that sort of control.” - Mike Tenay
Suddenly, the lights start to dim as an iconic theme tune plays out over the PA system.
I think I'm cute.
I know I'm sexy.
I've got the looks,
That drive the girls wild
I've got the moves, that really move 'em.
I send chills up.
Up and down their spines.
Out from the back walks out none other than the Heart Break Kid himself Shawn Michaels, who has a grin across his face as he struts down the entrance ramp looking more than pleased with himself.
I'm just a sexy boy,
Sexy boy
I'm not your boy toy,
Boy toy
I'm just a sexy boy,
Sexy boy
I'm not your boy toy,
Boy toy
Shawn finally makes it to the ring, as he climbs through the ropes he poses for a couple more seconds taking in the cheers from the fans in attendance. The music finally stops as he is handed up a microphone.
“It has been a long, long time since myself Shawn Michaels stood in a wrestling ring during a live event and had the opportunity to talk to the fans, whilst cutting a promo or whatever else you want to label what it taking place right now. I think the most important thing for me to say, is that in the next couple of months I able going through a number of medical checks and rehabilitations procedures in the hope I will be able to return as an in-ring wrestling in the summer months.” - Shawn Michaels
Even the slight mention of a possible return from Shawn, seems to get the fans excited as they give HBK a huge standing ovation, very much waiting on his every word.
“However, until that time it is important that people understand that I am not cleared to compete. This does not mean that I won't have an active role right here in WCW. You see in the last couple of weeks, I have been in heavy discussions with Shane McMahon and it has been decided up until that point where I become an in-ring competitor again I will holding the position as the Commissioner of WCW. This means that I will making the calls, that are in the best interest of this company and not individuals factions looking out for their own interests. And that is why, by the powers invested in me I am going to set-up a match tonight but first I want to call out someone who I know is loyal to WCW. Current United States Champion...Chris Benoit!” - Shawn Michaels
Chris Benoit marches out from the back, holding his US Title in the air as he is welcomed by the masses as he slowly makes his way down to the ring. He then pauses for a second looking up at Shawn, before rolling underneath the rope dropping his title as he does so before walking up to Shawn and just nodding in recognition. Shawn then smiles, as he continues.
“Now as the commissioner I already understand a number of matches are either set in stone, or on the verge of being confirmed. However, one person who I have noticed is yet to placed in a match is none other than this man standing next to be Chris Benoit. Chris I have one question for you, if you don't mind. Are you scared of anyone” - Shawn Michaels
“No.” - Chris Benoit
The answer was short and simple, because that was clearly all that what was needed.
“You see I think as the champion, we should respect Chris and give him the choice of who he wants to face at the PPV. And so I came up with this idea. This week he takes on a member of DX, next week a member of the nWo. After all is said and done, Benoit gets to choose who he wants to take out at the PPV. At the end of the day, WCW is going to come out on top either way. And so in tonight's main event, Chris is going to take on none other than Triple H!” - Shawn Michaels.
The fans clearly love the idea of that match, and mark out for the idea as Benoit just nods smiling to himself in the ring.
- - - - - - - -
01:02-01:05 - For the second time in a night, Eric Bischoff finds himself being interrupted or this time by none other than the man-beast that is Bill Goldberg. Eric looks up, slightly worried.
“Hi Bill, what can I do for you?” - Eric Bischoff
“I want a damn re-match!” - Goldberg
“With who?” - Eric Bischoff
“With Booker! Who else!” - Goldberg
Goldberg can't stop moving and looks like a man possessed, and Eric clearly thinks for a second before answering.
“You know what Bill, we have got a space in the card. So I would be more than happy to grant you the match.” - Eric Bischoff
Goldberg storms out the office, as Eric shakes his head before getting back to whatever he had been doing previously as Jarret walked in the room.
- - - - - - - -
01:05-01:14 - Booker T vs. Goldberg
Beginning: For third week in a row, both men met each other in the ring and it was clear that Bill Goldberg had no intention of continuing to be on this losing streak. Goldberg's determination really showed through, as any attempt at an assault from Booker was blocked out and met by shoulders barges and elbow exchanges by Goldberg. The adrenaline rush really came when Booker T was pummelled down to the mat with a Double Underhook suplex!
Middle: Goldberg continued to show clear dominance, and in many ways it was the fact that he had such an advantage that really allowed Booker to get back in the match, as Goldberg being too confident made a bad judgment call and was sent to his back via a Harlem Sidekick! He proceeded to bring down some punishment as he mounted Goldberg as hit him shot after shot to abdomen and face.
Finish: Booker T continued on the assault, and looked as if he was going to try and take out Goldberg once and for all. As he irish whipped Goldberg to the ropes, he was totally taken out surprised as he was floor by a monster Spear that ended the match!
Winner: Goldberg
01:14-01:16 - As Goldberg celebrated the win, he was for the second time in a week taken out by Mark Jindrak who this time proceeded to knock Goldberg down to his feet with a baseball bat, although this time bailed out of the ring as Booker T came to Goldberg rescue.. Both men appeared to be on the same page, as they looked down from the ring shouting at Jindrak.
01:16-01:19 - Advertisement Break: The Internet now exists, get it!
01:19-01:31 - Degeneration-X (Billy Gunn & Ric Flair) vs. nWo (Scott Steiner & Jeff Jarret)
Beginning: The match begun with Billy Gunn and Jeff Jarret in the ring, as Flair and Steiner gave each other evil glares from behind their positions. Billy Gunn looked very angry, whilst Double J seemed more focused which seemed to work to his advantage. JJ hit a solid russian leg-sweep, before tagging in Steiner.
Middle: Steiner really seemed to release a whole lot of anger out Billy, but kept eye contract with Flair the whole time he did so. Almost as if it was meant for Flair. Scott was quick to tag in Jeff however, as clearly wanted to keep on with the black and white dominance. Somehow, Billy managed to hit a gutbuster and tag in Flair to save himself from further punishment.
Finish: As Flair entered the ring, Jeff just seemed to smile before walking over to Steiner and tagging in his team mate. Flair and Steiner both go at each other at mad men, and this is nothing short of a fight to the death. The reasons for this hatred are unknown, but both men seem intent on killing the others. The referee shouts each other to break it up, but he is simply ignored and after much frustration he calls for the bell.
Winners: No Contest due to Disqualification
01:31-01:37 - As the match is brought to an abrupt end by the referee, Jeff convinces Steiner to leave the ring as both Billy Gunn and Flair look angered as they remain in the ring. Gunn calls for a mike before handing it over to Flair.
“First the nature boy Ric Flair wants to talk to the fans. WOOOOO! People have been questioning why I joined DX of the last week or so, and I thought being loyal to the fan I should give them an answer. You see Degeneration-X have no interest in taking over WCW, this isn’t a stable of invaders looking out to become the number invaders. The sole interest of DX is to take out the nWo once and for all. And that is why we want to reply to one challenge on the table and put down one of our own. Kevin and Scott you got yourself a deal. You better prepared for the New Age Outlaws as they are sure as hell going to take those tag teams title off you. WOOOO!” - Ric Flair
Billy Gunn applauds, as Ric Flair looks very much as he has a lot more to say.
“As for you Scott, I don’t know what the hell your damn problem with me is. The only thing I can think of is that your jealous. Jealous of my history, and jealous because in history you will never be remembered in the same class as me. And at Souled Out , I am going to wipe you off the mat forever. I the Nature Boy, I am challenging you to a Submission match. I sure as hell hope, that you and your roid shrunken balls can man up the challenge. WOOOO!” - Ric Flair
Flair just looks at Steiner, and it is more than clear from his reaction that the match is more than certainly just been confirmed.
- - - - - - - -
01:37-01:40 - The Big Show is sitting backstage, watching the monitor and clearly enjoying what is going on. Someone coughs, and as he looks behind him none other than Triple H is looking over his shoulder.
“I know we never officially talked about things Paul, so don’t feel pressure about it but if you want to be part of DX on a full time basis you are more than welcome.” – Triple H
“Thanks for the offer Hunter, I will think about it. “ – The Big Show
Hunter just walks off, not looking too worried as he has more important things to be concerned about like his match with Benoit in a couple of minutes. With Triple H gone, the room in the lights start to flicker and Big Show stands up but can’t see anything.
“Sting show your face your coward!” - The Big Show
The lights remain to normal, but it is unclear whether what just took place was deliberate mind games or simply a technical fault.
- - - - - - -
01:40-01:56 - Chris Benoit vs. Triple H
Beginning: There was a part of Triple H that was almost uncharacteristic, in the sense that he seemed to show Benoit a lot more respect than he would have normally if he had been in different circumstances. Of this attitude didn’t work in his favour and rather than going all out, Hunter found himself struggling in arms bars rather than going all out and throwing haymakers and bringing people down with spinebusters.
Middle: As Hunter fell behind the pace, he totally changed his strategy and went all out to get Benoit. The change of pace seemed to catch out Benoit, who was quite quickly taken out with a sharp clothesline before being proceeded to be stomped with heavy feet as he laid on the ground trying to defend himself.
Finish: Triple H looked to have totally turned the match around, and he thought he had the match done when he planted Benoit to the floor with the pedigree. However, instead of going straight for the cover his pride got the better of him as he showboated to the fans. By the time he finally went to pin Benoit, he found himself flipped and locked into the Cripple Crossface that saw Triple tapping in about ten seconds.
Winner: Chris Benoit
01:56-02:00 – As the match ended, Triple H looked slightly disheartened large due to his ego most definitely having cost him the win. Benoit seemed to appreciate this, and helped Hunter back up to his feet before both men shook hands in the ring in a very unhostile way, as the screen faded and the show came to a close.
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