Post by michaelporter on Oct 13, 2005 12:43:26 GMT -5
Michael Porter's WrestleBeat (10-13-05)
Hey there again, Wrestling Fans! And welcome to another edition of WrestleBeat. I've got a lot of news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling. So, let's get right to business.
But first...Earthquake John Tenta has informed us that on November 3rd he will be undergoing another series of scans following his latest series of Radiation Treatments. And he notes that he will receive the results of these scans the following week.
I KNOW that we ALL will be praying for the BEST possible results this time around for the BIG 'Quake!
Speaking of Earthquake John Tenta...I have been asked on NUMEROUS ocassions to re-count THIS particular story...the night that Earthquake "SQUASHED" Jake "the Snake" Roberts snake, Damien. The reason being that it is pretty well known that I was INDIRECTLY involved in this MAJOR angle which took place in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the WWF Superstars of Wrestling TV Tapings, the night after WrestleMania VII in Los Angeles, CA. Anyway...here goes:
THE DEATH OF DAMIEN (4-27-91)
It was Monday April 27th 1991...the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada...the day after WrestleMania VII from Los Angeles, CA. WWF was taping three weeks worth of WWF Superstars of Wrestling episodes.
This was in the days BEFORE Monday Night RAW. Back when on Monday's after a PPV, three episodes of Superstars would be taped, and then on Tuesday's three episodes of WWF Wrestling Challenge would tape.
These were always LONG nights, going well after 11:00pm and sometimes close to midnight.
This particular Superstars taping, I was informed that Vince McMahon wanted to see me in his office. When I arrived, Vince shook my hand, welcoming me. He then told me what he needed me to do.
He pointed to a table where a large amount (20-25 lbs.) of packaged HAMBURGER sat. I was perplexed. I wondered (to MYSELF) if Vince wanted me to cook the hamburger! He informed me what the MAJOR angle was for the night. In a match between Earthquake and Jake "the Snake" Roberts, "Damien was going to be "killed"! WHAT?
Then, I was told what Vince wanted me to do. I was given a pair of women's nylon stalkings and was told that I was needed to stuff them both full of the hamburger. OK!!!
This task took me quite awhile! It needed to be done just right to appear in the shape of a python. I wondered how I was going to do this. Then, I was told that once I had all of the hamburger stuffed into the nylons, I would place them into a green canvas bag...just like the one that Jake carries Damien to the ring in. OK...I could see where this was going!
I told Vince that the hamburger blood would probably leak through the bag. But then, we figured that to hide this, if it happened, I would place the bag-filled hamburger into the shower, to wet it down thoroughly, after tying the bag closed with the white piece of heavy string similar to the one that Jake used to tie "his" bag with.
Vince and I then talked with Jake and suggested that HE wet down Damien's bag as well, to cover up the difference in appearance of a dry bag as compared to a wet one.
Anyway, after my job was completed, the burger-bag was taken out in a box and placed under the ring, next to where Jake would place Damien for that night's match. We hoped that ALL would go well with this angle.
Vince thanked me for my effort and offered me some of his well-stocked, catered food and drink.
Then...as everyone knows what happened during the match, Jake takes Damien, in his bag down to the ring. Jake opens the bag, throwing the snake into the ring, causing "fear and panic" in 'Quake. This was done to show that Damien WAS in the bag, as usual. The referee then orders Jake to place Damien back into the bag and under the ring, which Jake hesitantly did. However, Jake placed Damien just to the side of the "gimmicked" bag.
All went well in the match. Earthquake has total control over Jake...eventually having Jake tied up by his arms in the ropes. 'Quake then goes for the "snake" in the bag under the ring...of course, it was the "gimmicked" bag. He brings it out, throws it up into the ring. He walks up to it, cautiously and kicks at it, to make certain that the snake is securely in the bag.
Then, with Jake watching helplessly, 'Quake does the Earthquake stomp, circling the bag, then hits the ropes, and comes off repeatedly to give the Earthquake Splash to the "snake". Jake is HORRIFIED at the sight of this!
Jake is finally released from the ropes after 'Quake had left the ring area. Jake struggles to open the bag. However, THIS is where there was a bit of a glitch. After I had tied the string around the "burger-bag" and had wet it down in the shower, the string had, because of the water, become very difficult to untie! "lots of manure!"...I thought to myself! After struggling for what...to ME seemed like an ETERNITY, Jake was finally able to get the string untied and opened the bag and looked inside. He reeled in HORROR, fell back and started to get very emotional! "Damien" was DEAD!
So...there you have the TRUE story of "The Death of Damien"! BUT...the story did NOT quite end THERE! OH...NO!
The next night, at the "Challenge" tapings at the Lawler Events Center in Reno, Nevada, we were met by Animal Control Authorities, who had received complaints of the killing of the snake the night before in Las Vegas. After they were told of what had ACTUALLY taken place, and was shown that the snake was indeed alright...all was well, and the show went on!
Alright...there you have the COMPLETE STORY, as best as I can recall, of "The Death of Damien"!
OK...now here's one "for the books" (pun INTENDED) lol. I have been asked to take part in an interview with Heath Santo, the afternoon drive news anchor at a radio station back in the Dayton, Ohio market. He is in the process of writing a book on the old WWF, in particular the 1988 to 1992 years, in his spare time. Heath has already interviewed a number of former WWF staffers and Talents from that period...INCLUDING former Announcer Sean Mooney, J.J. Dillon, Leaping Lanny Poffo, Jacques Rougeau, my old friend Rick Martel, my buddy Marty Jannetty, Demolition Ax, Paul Roma, Bad News Brown, Bushwacker Luke Williams, and several others!
I am EXTREMELY honored and pleased to be asked to give some of MY memories and stories of MY WWF years! I DO have a few stories that I CAN tell...including the one mentioned above on "The Death of Damien". And maybe my FIRST meeting with Vince McMahon, which was in Wheeling, West Virginia...which also happened to be the night of the debut of John Tenta (pre-Earthquake) in the WWF. However, for obvious reasons, there are some tales that I wish I COULD tell, but will be UNABLE to...darn it! lol
This will indeed be interesting to see in book form.
(UPDATE)
As I write this (Tuesday Evening), I would like to report that I spoke with Heath Santo via telephone, for nearly one hour and 45 minutes...from just before 5:00pm until almost 6:45pm! Heath asked me a LOT of questions about my time with the WWF, from personal observations to my interaction with the WWF Wrestlers, and some of my humerous experiences and encounters.
Heath Santo was VERY professional in his questions...NOT trying to dig up "dirt", if you know what I mean. He even told me some of the stories that the above-mentioned names told to him. He GENUINELY loves the WWF/E.
I look forward to reading this book when it comes out...as Heath will be sending me a copy!
Speaking of interviews, I will be having an upcoming interview with The Bad Apples, DeDe and Adam. I want to apoligize to them for not getting back to them sooner, but I have had a busy week. PLUS, I WILL be working on their interview SOON!
Also, on Monday I received a phone call from Billy Blade in regards to doing a "shoot" interview. Billy says that he wants to address a few situations that has been concerning him. I look forward to my sit-down with Billy Blade!
And I will also be doing a "shoot" interview in the near future with Juggalo Jim Cooley, who has ALSO expressed an interest in getting a "few things off my chest", as he put it!
Next up...I returned to Country 103.1 KKCY Marysville/Yuba City, CA. this (Thursday) morning on the Dave Logasa in the Morning show with my WrestleShoot Report.
This week, I discussed the firing of Jim Ross on Monday Night RAW, by Linda, rather than Vince McMahon! Linda put an exclaimation point to the firing by kicking Good Ol' J.R. right square in "the grapefruits"!
I also discussed the Matt Hardy on TheMattHardyShow.com , has confirmed that he and 2005 RAW Diva Search winner Ashley massaro ARE an item.
From then I went to BTW (Big Time Wrestling) Presenting FanFest 2005 on Saturday Nov. 12th at the Newark Pavilion in Newark, CA from 10:00am-4:30pm
Some of the Superstars scheduled to appear are Rowdy Roddy Piper, Bret "Hitman" Hart. Rick Martel, Rob Van Dam, Rocky Johnson (father of The Rock), and Capt. Lou Albano...among others.
For more information, go to www.btwrestling.com .
And finally, I discussed that my old buddy, Hacksaw Jim Duggan flipped a bus he was driving in a practice run for a Charity Event in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.
Duggan and his passenger, an Orlando, Florida newspaper reporter, suffered ONLY minor injuries.
And that was it for this week. I'll return next week with another edition of Michael Porter's WrestleShoot on Country 103.1 KKCY.
For more info on KKCY, go to www.kkcy.com .
OK...on to the INDY news:
Here are the Quick Results for NAW (North American Wrestling) REBIRTH at the Fat Cat Music House and Lounge on Sunday Oct.9th as reported by NAW Owner, Mike Rayne:
Alexis Schmirnoff Jr. defeated Rage.
Otis defeated Tito Aquino.
The Cartel (Big Ugly J.D. Bishop and Vinny Massaro) defeated the Suburban Commandos (D.J. Rizz and D-Unit), Helfyre and Trent Hemridge, and "the Trendsetter" Adam Thornstowe and "Old School" Oliver John to become the NAW Tag Team Champions
Pogo defeated "Hot Stuff" Seito Hayashi and Jason Vega.
EL Flaco Loco defeated Sir Samurai, Jesus Kruze, Ryan Cayde, Virgil, and Tommy Tsunami to win the Fat Cat Cup.
Malakai defeated Paul Isadora and Luster the Legend in an Elimination Triple Threat Match.
Rik Luxury defeated Bonzai Bruce Bukkake to win the NAW Light Heavyweight Champion.
Vega defeated Marce to become the #1 contendor to Rik Luxury's NAW Light Heavyweight Title.
Vic Grimes defeated "Bulldog" Brian Raymond to become the #1 contendor for the NAW Heavyweight Title.
The Triple Threat Match between Dante, Steele, and "Ridiculous" Mike Rayne was declared a no contest when Vic Grimes intefered and attacked Dante.
Mike Rayne declared that with "110 in attendance for the evening,, and for our competitors who dare to not consider us to be a "Real" show, well be back again to prove you wrong again in the months to come".
"Thank you to the Secretions, our musical guest for the evening and all the great NAW fans who continue to show their support no matter what city we run in...thank you!".
It has also been announced that NAW will return to Fat Cat's. But the date has yet to be determined.
Two matches have so far been signed:
The Main Event will see a Weedwacker on a Pole Match for the NAW Heavyweight Championship, with the current Champion, Dante defending angains the challenge of Vic Grimes.
Also, for the NAW Light Heavyweighi Championship, Rik Luxury will put his Title on the line against Vega.
More matches will be announced soon.
For updated information, go to www.northamericanwrestling.com .
Here are the results of the joint UPW/EWF Benefit Show for the Salvation Army and their combined efforts to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina, as reported by my friend, Jesse Hernandez:
Saturday October 8, 2005 San Bernardino, CA.
The "Team-Up For Katrina" Combined UPW (Ultimate Pro Wrestling) EWF (Empire Wrestling Federation) Show results are as follows:
UPW Match #1 1. Kid Vicious pinned Andrew Hellman.
EWF Match #1 2. Mr. Nitro2Go pinned "Mad" Max Martin.
UPW Match #2 - UPW Lightweight Championship 3. Lil Nate pinned Shawn Riddick to retain the Title.
EWF Match #2 4. American Champion Syrus & Jason King defeated World Champion Bino Gambino & Dan Kobrick.
EWF Match #3 - EWF Tag Team Championship 5. Los Chivos defeated The Plague & TJ Perkins to retain their Titles.
UPW Match #3 6. Big Babi Slymm pinned Chance Montana.
UPW vs EWF Match - The Main Event 7. Antonio Mestre (representing UPW) pinned Vizzion (representing EWF).
UPW, EWF and The Salvation Army wish to THANK ALL of the Talent, Staff Members, and the Fans for turning out for this SPECIAL Benefit Event!
WCWA returns to WCWA Arena 2312 Monument Blvd. in Pleasant Hill THIS Saturday Night Oct. 15th.
Matches announced so far:
WCWA Pacific Rim Ring of Fire Title: El Flaco Loco defends vs. Bonzai Bruce Bakakke.
U.S. Steele vs. Sir Samurai.
WCWA Tag Team Titles: Technical Terror (Rik Luxury & Steel) defends vs. Bad Apples (2 refs & another stipulation to come)
4 Way Match for the WCWA Title: Helfyre defends vs. Rage vs. Alexis Smirnoff Jr. vs. Jason Vega.
For more information, go to www.wcwaprowrestling.com
On Saturday, November 12 at the Newark Pavilion 6430 Thornton Ave in Newark, CA BTW (Big Time Wrestling) will be having FanFest 2005!
From 10am-4:30pm, there will be something for everyone... memorabilia for sale, wrestling matches featuring the stars of Big Time Wrestling, and you'll be able to meet and greet legends such as Rowdy Roddy Piper, Bret "Hitman" Hart, Rick Martel, Rob Van Dam, Rocky "Soulman" Johnson (father of The Rock), Brutus "the Barber" Beefcake, Greg "the Hammer" Valentine, The Iron Sheik, Captain Lou Albano, and Tammy Lynn Sytch (formerly known as Sunny)!!!
TICKETS - General Admission is only $5; kids 8-under are free! A Super Ticket is only $69 and includes: 1 admission to FanFest and the wrestling show plus 1 autograph from all the stars (NOTE: Tammy is not included on the super ticket). TICKETS GO ON SALE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14.
AUTOGRAPHS - There is a charge for individual autographs; call 510-494-9648 or email us for more info and for prices.
DEALER TABLES are available. Cost is $75 for an 8ft table .... space is limited, so call 510-494-9468 today to reserve your table!
NEED A ROOM? Call the Courtyard by Marriott (510-656-1800) located at 47000 Lakeview Blvd in Fremont and mention "Big Time Wrestling" to receive the discounted rate of $59 plus tax per night. Rates are from Friday the 11th through Sunday the 13th. The hotel is 5 miles from the Newark Pavilion.
QUESTIONS? email us at btwmerchandise@hotmail.com
For more information, go to www.btwrestling.com .
SPW Returns to on Sunday Oct. 23rd for their Halloween Show at St. Peter's Hall 6200 McMahon Dr. in Sacramento, CA.
Doors open at 5:00pm and Belltime is 5:30pm.
Matches signed so far include:
In a Casket Match, Shane Dynasty will face El Flaco Loco.
The Cartel (Big Ugly J.D. Bishop & Vinnie Massaro) vs Vic Grimes & Dante.
SPW Champion "Old School" Oliver John & Champions Unlimited vs Pogo the Clown & The Rejected.
SPW X-Division 3-Way Match...Bonzai Bruce Bakakke vs. Sir Samauri vs Ridiculous Mike Rayne.
And the Annual SPW Gimmick Battle Royal, where the SPW Superstars are dressed as their favorite Stars.
Also much more...including The Suburban Commandos, Tommy Tsunami, and more.
For more information, go to www.supremeprowrestling.com .
B.R.A.W.L. Presents LETHAL INJECTION 2005 on October 21st at the Antioch Fairgrounds in Antioch, CA.
Tickets are just $10.00 and are NOW on sale! For tickets or info, call (925) 595-7045 or (925) 726-1841
Show starts at 7:00pm.
The card is as follows:
A HUGE Tag Team Tournament featuring:
The Suburban Commandos (DJ Rizz and D-Unit)
The Cartel (Big Ugly JD Bishop and Vinny Massaro)
Ridiculous Mike Rayne and Steel
Sir Samurai and Nick Rage
Dante and Luster "The Legend"
Adam Thornstowe and Malachi
A BRAWL-Style Match for The Internet Title:
Rik Luxury (Internet Champ)
Bruce Bukkake
Ryan Cade
El Hijo de Chupacabra
Virgil
Pogo defends his BRAWL Heavyweight Title against Trent Hemridge
Former ECW, XPW and WWE Wrestler, Vic Grimes vs "Old School" Oliver John
And a few more matches to be announced!!!
Come JOIN the ACTION on October 21st.
For more information, go to www.brawlwrestling.net .
And remember...AWP will be Presenting Halloween Hell VIII on Saturday Oct. 22nd at Eric Nolan's Extreme Martial Arts & Fitness 4150 Stine Rd. in Bakersfield, CA.
Doors open at 6:30pm and Belltime is set for 7:00pm. Tickets are just $10.00 for General Admission with VIP Seating just $20.00.
Matches announced so far:
APW INTERNET TITLE MATCH: Shannon Moore vs. JJ Perez.
APW UNIVERSAL HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE: "Heart of Fire" Derek Sanders vs. "Brazilian Beast" Kafu.
APW TAG TEAM TITLES: "The Mafia" (Vennis De Marco & Chris Colione) vs. "All Pro Rangers" (Kid Omega & Kyu Ketsuki).
SPECIAL ATTRACTION: Cheerleader Melissa & Tiffany & Sean Pulver vs.Mr. Primetime & Antonio Mestre & Kadin w/Payton.
Tommy Angels vs. Nathan Rulez.
Jesse Jimenez vs. Billy Blade w/Payton.
Get your tickets at Eric Nolan's Xtreme Martial Arts & Fitness 4510 Stine Rd. Bakersfield CA., by calling (661) 833-3367, or online at: tickets@allprowrestling.com
For more information, go to www.allprowrestling.com .
And now...on to the national news:
These stories come from Ryan Clark:
Dusty Rhodes is being taught to work with computers as part of his new role with the WWE writing team.
It is believed Mark Copani (Muhammad Hassan) received a lump sum settlement in exchange for his release, as WWE feared he could file a wrongful termination lawsuit. WWE's new idea for Copani was for him to wear a mask a play a Mexican Luchador. At this point, Copani has no interest in TNA or Japan, and is hoping to find acting roles.
Daiviri is likely to be moved back to Raw. In OVW, Daiviri is working part of Bolin Services.
As announced on RAW on Monday Night, Mick Foley will return to RAW next week to take part in Carlito's Cabana.
The Diva who debuted on RAW last night as Mickie James was Alexis Laree under her real name. There are plans to do a Team Pink (Victoria, Candice, & Torrie) against Trish Stratus, Ashley Masaro, and Mickie James who debuted last night.
Responding to reports that the two had been seen kissing on the WWE house show circuit, Matt Hardy confirmed that he and RAW Diva Search winner Ashley Massaro are an item.
In a post on TheMattHardyShow.com, the wrestler offered, "I know there's been alot of bickering over this post--but for the record, it is true. Although there's alot of mixed reviews of Ashley in this thread--take it from me--she's an awesome person. I appreciate her. You guys take care and be well. I might interact with you a little more in the immediate future--I got some time off."
Kane will return next week as announced on RAW on Monday Night.
USA once again gave RAW more time this week as they went several minutes over on the over-run period.
Also on RAW, we saw the return of Doink the Clown. This time Doink was portrayed by The Brooklyn (Boston) Brawler, Steve Lombardi.
Tim Brown reports that WWE has contacted the owners of the former ECW Arena about running the June 2006 ECW One Night Stand PPV.
From www.local6.com. There are photos at the website.
A bus being driven by a Pro Wrestler Hacksaw Jim Duggan at a celebrity fundraising event preview in New Smyrna Beach flipped Monday, injuring Duggan and an Orlando newspaper reporter, according to a Local 6 News report.
The Volusia County Sheriff's annual fundraiser event includes celebrity bus racing around the track at the New Smyrna Beach Speedway.
During a practice race Monday, Duggan flipped his bus with a newspaper reporter onboard.
"It just flipped over," Duggan said. "They said stay up high and keep it down. I stayed up high and was keeping it down and once it started to go, it does not respond like anything I've ever driven before."
Duggan was treated for minor cuts and is expected to be OK. The newspaper reporter, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was treated for minor scrapes.
"This is a race, no matter what and anything can happen," Volusia County Sheriff Ben Johnson said. "You don't want anyone getting hurt and you want to put on a good show. No one was hurt, scratched up a little bit."
The annual charity fundraising event begins at the New Smyrna Beach Speedway Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
On this week's Monday Night RAW, it was Good Ol' J.R. Jim Ross that was fired as a result of Stone Cold Steve Austin "Stunning" Vince, Shane, Stephanie, AND Linda McMahon on last week's WWE Homecoming, as WWE returned to the USA Network.
The firing took place at the hands of Linda, rather than Vince McMahon! Linda put an exclamation point to the firing by kicking Good Ol' J.R. right square in the grapefruits, and sending him down.
After RAW went off the air, J.R. finally made his way to his feet, grabbed a microphone, and when asked what he thought about what had just happened. After thanking the fans for being there all these years, he then said that "the McMahon's can kiss my ass!".
This DOES surprise me a little and disappoints me as well. The rumors were going around that J.R. would be fired and the RAW Announcing spot would be going to UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) Announcer, Mike Goldberg. However, Goldberg eventually turned down the WWE offer and decided to re-sign and stay with UFC. So...I thought that Ross would be around a little longer until a suitable replacement could be found. I STILL say that Jim Ross is the BEST blow-by-blow man in the business!
Here is a LATE (Thursday) update from www.wwe.com :
"Earlier today, Jim Ross has been hospitalized to undergo colon surgery. WWE.com will keep you posted if we get any more information."
Well, that does it for another edition of WrestleBeat. I'll be back next time with more news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling.
So, until next time, KEEP BOTH FEET ON THE MAT AND YOUR PUNCHES ABOVE THE BELT! Later, Michael.
(contact Michael Porter by e-mail at kmichaelporter@yahoo.com or by snail-mail at P.O. Box 5282 Marysville, CA. 95901-8521)
Hey there again, Wrestling Fans! And welcome to another edition of WrestleBeat. I've got a lot of news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling. So, let's get right to business.
But first...Earthquake John Tenta has informed us that on November 3rd he will be undergoing another series of scans following his latest series of Radiation Treatments. And he notes that he will receive the results of these scans the following week.
I KNOW that we ALL will be praying for the BEST possible results this time around for the BIG 'Quake!
Speaking of Earthquake John Tenta...I have been asked on NUMEROUS ocassions to re-count THIS particular story...the night that Earthquake "SQUASHED" Jake "the Snake" Roberts snake, Damien. The reason being that it is pretty well known that I was INDIRECTLY involved in this MAJOR angle which took place in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the WWF Superstars of Wrestling TV Tapings, the night after WrestleMania VII in Los Angeles, CA. Anyway...here goes:
THE DEATH OF DAMIEN (4-27-91)
It was Monday April 27th 1991...the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada...the day after WrestleMania VII from Los Angeles, CA. WWF was taping three weeks worth of WWF Superstars of Wrestling episodes.
This was in the days BEFORE Monday Night RAW. Back when on Monday's after a PPV, three episodes of Superstars would be taped, and then on Tuesday's three episodes of WWF Wrestling Challenge would tape.
These were always LONG nights, going well after 11:00pm and sometimes close to midnight.
This particular Superstars taping, I was informed that Vince McMahon wanted to see me in his office. When I arrived, Vince shook my hand, welcoming me. He then told me what he needed me to do.
He pointed to a table where a large amount (20-25 lbs.) of packaged HAMBURGER sat. I was perplexed. I wondered (to MYSELF) if Vince wanted me to cook the hamburger! He informed me what the MAJOR angle was for the night. In a match between Earthquake and Jake "the Snake" Roberts, "Damien was going to be "killed"! WHAT?
Then, I was told what Vince wanted me to do. I was given a pair of women's nylon stalkings and was told that I was needed to stuff them both full of the hamburger. OK!!!
This task took me quite awhile! It needed to be done just right to appear in the shape of a python. I wondered how I was going to do this. Then, I was told that once I had all of the hamburger stuffed into the nylons, I would place them into a green canvas bag...just like the one that Jake carries Damien to the ring in. OK...I could see where this was going!
I told Vince that the hamburger blood would probably leak through the bag. But then, we figured that to hide this, if it happened, I would place the bag-filled hamburger into the shower, to wet it down thoroughly, after tying the bag closed with the white piece of heavy string similar to the one that Jake used to tie "his" bag with.
Vince and I then talked with Jake and suggested that HE wet down Damien's bag as well, to cover up the difference in appearance of a dry bag as compared to a wet one.
Anyway, after my job was completed, the burger-bag was taken out in a box and placed under the ring, next to where Jake would place Damien for that night's match. We hoped that ALL would go well with this angle.
Vince thanked me for my effort and offered me some of his well-stocked, catered food and drink.
Then...as everyone knows what happened during the match, Jake takes Damien, in his bag down to the ring. Jake opens the bag, throwing the snake into the ring, causing "fear and panic" in 'Quake. This was done to show that Damien WAS in the bag, as usual. The referee then orders Jake to place Damien back into the bag and under the ring, which Jake hesitantly did. However, Jake placed Damien just to the side of the "gimmicked" bag.
All went well in the match. Earthquake has total control over Jake...eventually having Jake tied up by his arms in the ropes. 'Quake then goes for the "snake" in the bag under the ring...of course, it was the "gimmicked" bag. He brings it out, throws it up into the ring. He walks up to it, cautiously and kicks at it, to make certain that the snake is securely in the bag.
Then, with Jake watching helplessly, 'Quake does the Earthquake stomp, circling the bag, then hits the ropes, and comes off repeatedly to give the Earthquake Splash to the "snake". Jake is HORRIFIED at the sight of this!
Jake is finally released from the ropes after 'Quake had left the ring area. Jake struggles to open the bag. However, THIS is where there was a bit of a glitch. After I had tied the string around the "burger-bag" and had wet it down in the shower, the string had, because of the water, become very difficult to untie! "lots of manure!"...I thought to myself! After struggling for what...to ME seemed like an ETERNITY, Jake was finally able to get the string untied and opened the bag and looked inside. He reeled in HORROR, fell back and started to get very emotional! "Damien" was DEAD!
So...there you have the TRUE story of "The Death of Damien"! BUT...the story did NOT quite end THERE! OH...NO!
The next night, at the "Challenge" tapings at the Lawler Events Center in Reno, Nevada, we were met by Animal Control Authorities, who had received complaints of the killing of the snake the night before in Las Vegas. After they were told of what had ACTUALLY taken place, and was shown that the snake was indeed alright...all was well, and the show went on!
Alright...there you have the COMPLETE STORY, as best as I can recall, of "The Death of Damien"!
OK...now here's one "for the books" (pun INTENDED) lol. I have been asked to take part in an interview with Heath Santo, the afternoon drive news anchor at a radio station back in the Dayton, Ohio market. He is in the process of writing a book on the old WWF, in particular the 1988 to 1992 years, in his spare time. Heath has already interviewed a number of former WWF staffers and Talents from that period...INCLUDING former Announcer Sean Mooney, J.J. Dillon, Leaping Lanny Poffo, Jacques Rougeau, my old friend Rick Martel, my buddy Marty Jannetty, Demolition Ax, Paul Roma, Bad News Brown, Bushwacker Luke Williams, and several others!
I am EXTREMELY honored and pleased to be asked to give some of MY memories and stories of MY WWF years! I DO have a few stories that I CAN tell...including the one mentioned above on "The Death of Damien". And maybe my FIRST meeting with Vince McMahon, which was in Wheeling, West Virginia...which also happened to be the night of the debut of John Tenta (pre-Earthquake) in the WWF. However, for obvious reasons, there are some tales that I wish I COULD tell, but will be UNABLE to...darn it! lol
This will indeed be interesting to see in book form.
(UPDATE)
As I write this (Tuesday Evening), I would like to report that I spoke with Heath Santo via telephone, for nearly one hour and 45 minutes...from just before 5:00pm until almost 6:45pm! Heath asked me a LOT of questions about my time with the WWF, from personal observations to my interaction with the WWF Wrestlers, and some of my humerous experiences and encounters.
Heath Santo was VERY professional in his questions...NOT trying to dig up "dirt", if you know what I mean. He even told me some of the stories that the above-mentioned names told to him. He GENUINELY loves the WWF/E.
I look forward to reading this book when it comes out...as Heath will be sending me a copy!
Speaking of interviews, I will be having an upcoming interview with The Bad Apples, DeDe and Adam. I want to apoligize to them for not getting back to them sooner, but I have had a busy week. PLUS, I WILL be working on their interview SOON!
Also, on Monday I received a phone call from Billy Blade in regards to doing a "shoot" interview. Billy says that he wants to address a few situations that has been concerning him. I look forward to my sit-down with Billy Blade!
And I will also be doing a "shoot" interview in the near future with Juggalo Jim Cooley, who has ALSO expressed an interest in getting a "few things off my chest", as he put it!
Next up...I returned to Country 103.1 KKCY Marysville/Yuba City, CA. this (Thursday) morning on the Dave Logasa in the Morning show with my WrestleShoot Report.
This week, I discussed the firing of Jim Ross on Monday Night RAW, by Linda, rather than Vince McMahon! Linda put an exclaimation point to the firing by kicking Good Ol' J.R. right square in "the grapefruits"!
I also discussed the Matt Hardy on TheMattHardyShow.com , has confirmed that he and 2005 RAW Diva Search winner Ashley massaro ARE an item.
From then I went to BTW (Big Time Wrestling) Presenting FanFest 2005 on Saturday Nov. 12th at the Newark Pavilion in Newark, CA from 10:00am-4:30pm
Some of the Superstars scheduled to appear are Rowdy Roddy Piper, Bret "Hitman" Hart. Rick Martel, Rob Van Dam, Rocky Johnson (father of The Rock), and Capt. Lou Albano...among others.
For more information, go to www.btwrestling.com .
And finally, I discussed that my old buddy, Hacksaw Jim Duggan flipped a bus he was driving in a practice run for a Charity Event in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.
Duggan and his passenger, an Orlando, Florida newspaper reporter, suffered ONLY minor injuries.
And that was it for this week. I'll return next week with another edition of Michael Porter's WrestleShoot on Country 103.1 KKCY.
For more info on KKCY, go to www.kkcy.com .
OK...on to the INDY news:
Here are the Quick Results for NAW (North American Wrestling) REBIRTH at the Fat Cat Music House and Lounge on Sunday Oct.9th as reported by NAW Owner, Mike Rayne:
Alexis Schmirnoff Jr. defeated Rage.
Otis defeated Tito Aquino.
The Cartel (Big Ugly J.D. Bishop and Vinny Massaro) defeated the Suburban Commandos (D.J. Rizz and D-Unit), Helfyre and Trent Hemridge, and "the Trendsetter" Adam Thornstowe and "Old School" Oliver John to become the NAW Tag Team Champions
Pogo defeated "Hot Stuff" Seito Hayashi and Jason Vega.
EL Flaco Loco defeated Sir Samurai, Jesus Kruze, Ryan Cayde, Virgil, and Tommy Tsunami to win the Fat Cat Cup.
Malakai defeated Paul Isadora and Luster the Legend in an Elimination Triple Threat Match.
Rik Luxury defeated Bonzai Bruce Bukkake to win the NAW Light Heavyweight Champion.
Vega defeated Marce to become the #1 contendor to Rik Luxury's NAW Light Heavyweight Title.
Vic Grimes defeated "Bulldog" Brian Raymond to become the #1 contendor for the NAW Heavyweight Title.
The Triple Threat Match between Dante, Steele, and "Ridiculous" Mike Rayne was declared a no contest when Vic Grimes intefered and attacked Dante.
Mike Rayne declared that with "110 in attendance for the evening,, and for our competitors who dare to not consider us to be a "Real" show, well be back again to prove you wrong again in the months to come".
"Thank you to the Secretions, our musical guest for the evening and all the great NAW fans who continue to show their support no matter what city we run in...thank you!".
It has also been announced that NAW will return to Fat Cat's. But the date has yet to be determined.
Two matches have so far been signed:
The Main Event will see a Weedwacker on a Pole Match for the NAW Heavyweight Championship, with the current Champion, Dante defending angains the challenge of Vic Grimes.
Also, for the NAW Light Heavyweighi Championship, Rik Luxury will put his Title on the line against Vega.
More matches will be announced soon.
For updated information, go to www.northamericanwrestling.com .
Here are the results of the joint UPW/EWF Benefit Show for the Salvation Army and their combined efforts to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina, as reported by my friend, Jesse Hernandez:
Saturday October 8, 2005 San Bernardino, CA.
The "Team-Up For Katrina" Combined UPW (Ultimate Pro Wrestling) EWF (Empire Wrestling Federation) Show results are as follows:
UPW Match #1 1. Kid Vicious pinned Andrew Hellman.
EWF Match #1 2. Mr. Nitro2Go pinned "Mad" Max Martin.
UPW Match #2 - UPW Lightweight Championship 3. Lil Nate pinned Shawn Riddick to retain the Title.
EWF Match #2 4. American Champion Syrus & Jason King defeated World Champion Bino Gambino & Dan Kobrick.
EWF Match #3 - EWF Tag Team Championship 5. Los Chivos defeated The Plague & TJ Perkins to retain their Titles.
UPW Match #3 6. Big Babi Slymm pinned Chance Montana.
UPW vs EWF Match - The Main Event 7. Antonio Mestre (representing UPW) pinned Vizzion (representing EWF).
UPW, EWF and The Salvation Army wish to THANK ALL of the Talent, Staff Members, and the Fans for turning out for this SPECIAL Benefit Event!
WCWA returns to WCWA Arena 2312 Monument Blvd. in Pleasant Hill THIS Saturday Night Oct. 15th.
Matches announced so far:
WCWA Pacific Rim Ring of Fire Title: El Flaco Loco defends vs. Bonzai Bruce Bakakke.
U.S. Steele vs. Sir Samurai.
WCWA Tag Team Titles: Technical Terror (Rik Luxury & Steel) defends vs. Bad Apples (2 refs & another stipulation to come)
4 Way Match for the WCWA Title: Helfyre defends vs. Rage vs. Alexis Smirnoff Jr. vs. Jason Vega.
For more information, go to www.wcwaprowrestling.com
On Saturday, November 12 at the Newark Pavilion 6430 Thornton Ave in Newark, CA BTW (Big Time Wrestling) will be having FanFest 2005!
From 10am-4:30pm, there will be something for everyone... memorabilia for sale, wrestling matches featuring the stars of Big Time Wrestling, and you'll be able to meet and greet legends such as Rowdy Roddy Piper, Bret "Hitman" Hart, Rick Martel, Rob Van Dam, Rocky "Soulman" Johnson (father of The Rock), Brutus "the Barber" Beefcake, Greg "the Hammer" Valentine, The Iron Sheik, Captain Lou Albano, and Tammy Lynn Sytch (formerly known as Sunny)!!!
TICKETS - General Admission is only $5; kids 8-under are free! A Super Ticket is only $69 and includes: 1 admission to FanFest and the wrestling show plus 1 autograph from all the stars (NOTE: Tammy is not included on the super ticket). TICKETS GO ON SALE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14.
AUTOGRAPHS - There is a charge for individual autographs; call 510-494-9648 or email us for more info and for prices.
DEALER TABLES are available. Cost is $75 for an 8ft table .... space is limited, so call 510-494-9468 today to reserve your table!
NEED A ROOM? Call the Courtyard by Marriott (510-656-1800) located at 47000 Lakeview Blvd in Fremont and mention "Big Time Wrestling" to receive the discounted rate of $59 plus tax per night. Rates are from Friday the 11th through Sunday the 13th. The hotel is 5 miles from the Newark Pavilion.
QUESTIONS? email us at btwmerchandise@hotmail.com
For more information, go to www.btwrestling.com .
SPW Returns to on Sunday Oct. 23rd for their Halloween Show at St. Peter's Hall 6200 McMahon Dr. in Sacramento, CA.
Doors open at 5:00pm and Belltime is 5:30pm.
Matches signed so far include:
In a Casket Match, Shane Dynasty will face El Flaco Loco.
The Cartel (Big Ugly J.D. Bishop & Vinnie Massaro) vs Vic Grimes & Dante.
SPW Champion "Old School" Oliver John & Champions Unlimited vs Pogo the Clown & The Rejected.
SPW X-Division 3-Way Match...Bonzai Bruce Bakakke vs. Sir Samauri vs Ridiculous Mike Rayne.
And the Annual SPW Gimmick Battle Royal, where the SPW Superstars are dressed as their favorite Stars.
Also much more...including The Suburban Commandos, Tommy Tsunami, and more.
For more information, go to www.supremeprowrestling.com .
B.R.A.W.L. Presents LETHAL INJECTION 2005 on October 21st at the Antioch Fairgrounds in Antioch, CA.
Tickets are just $10.00 and are NOW on sale! For tickets or info, call (925) 595-7045 or (925) 726-1841
Show starts at 7:00pm.
The card is as follows:
A HUGE Tag Team Tournament featuring:
The Suburban Commandos (DJ Rizz and D-Unit)
The Cartel (Big Ugly JD Bishop and Vinny Massaro)
Ridiculous Mike Rayne and Steel
Sir Samurai and Nick Rage
Dante and Luster "The Legend"
Adam Thornstowe and Malachi
A BRAWL-Style Match for The Internet Title:
Rik Luxury (Internet Champ)
Bruce Bukkake
Ryan Cade
El Hijo de Chupacabra
Virgil
Pogo defends his BRAWL Heavyweight Title against Trent Hemridge
Former ECW, XPW and WWE Wrestler, Vic Grimes vs "Old School" Oliver John
And a few more matches to be announced!!!
Come JOIN the ACTION on October 21st.
For more information, go to www.brawlwrestling.net .
And remember...AWP will be Presenting Halloween Hell VIII on Saturday Oct. 22nd at Eric Nolan's Extreme Martial Arts & Fitness 4150 Stine Rd. in Bakersfield, CA.
Doors open at 6:30pm and Belltime is set for 7:00pm. Tickets are just $10.00 for General Admission with VIP Seating just $20.00.
Matches announced so far:
APW INTERNET TITLE MATCH: Shannon Moore vs. JJ Perez.
APW UNIVERSAL HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE: "Heart of Fire" Derek Sanders vs. "Brazilian Beast" Kafu.
APW TAG TEAM TITLES: "The Mafia" (Vennis De Marco & Chris Colione) vs. "All Pro Rangers" (Kid Omega & Kyu Ketsuki).
SPECIAL ATTRACTION: Cheerleader Melissa & Tiffany & Sean Pulver vs.Mr. Primetime & Antonio Mestre & Kadin w/Payton.
Tommy Angels vs. Nathan Rulez.
Jesse Jimenez vs. Billy Blade w/Payton.
Get your tickets at Eric Nolan's Xtreme Martial Arts & Fitness 4510 Stine Rd. Bakersfield CA., by calling (661) 833-3367, or online at: tickets@allprowrestling.com
For more information, go to www.allprowrestling.com .
And now...on to the national news:
These stories come from Ryan Clark:
Dusty Rhodes is being taught to work with computers as part of his new role with the WWE writing team.
It is believed Mark Copani (Muhammad Hassan) received a lump sum settlement in exchange for his release, as WWE feared he could file a wrongful termination lawsuit. WWE's new idea for Copani was for him to wear a mask a play a Mexican Luchador. At this point, Copani has no interest in TNA or Japan, and is hoping to find acting roles.
Daiviri is likely to be moved back to Raw. In OVW, Daiviri is working part of Bolin Services.
As announced on RAW on Monday Night, Mick Foley will return to RAW next week to take part in Carlito's Cabana.
The Diva who debuted on RAW last night as Mickie James was Alexis Laree under her real name. There are plans to do a Team Pink (Victoria, Candice, & Torrie) against Trish Stratus, Ashley Masaro, and Mickie James who debuted last night.
Responding to reports that the two had been seen kissing on the WWE house show circuit, Matt Hardy confirmed that he and RAW Diva Search winner Ashley Massaro are an item.
In a post on TheMattHardyShow.com, the wrestler offered, "I know there's been alot of bickering over this post--but for the record, it is true. Although there's alot of mixed reviews of Ashley in this thread--take it from me--she's an awesome person. I appreciate her. You guys take care and be well. I might interact with you a little more in the immediate future--I got some time off."
Kane will return next week as announced on RAW on Monday Night.
USA once again gave RAW more time this week as they went several minutes over on the over-run period.
Also on RAW, we saw the return of Doink the Clown. This time Doink was portrayed by The Brooklyn (Boston) Brawler, Steve Lombardi.
Tim Brown reports that WWE has contacted the owners of the former ECW Arena about running the June 2006 ECW One Night Stand PPV.
From www.local6.com. There are photos at the website.
A bus being driven by a Pro Wrestler Hacksaw Jim Duggan at a celebrity fundraising event preview in New Smyrna Beach flipped Monday, injuring Duggan and an Orlando newspaper reporter, according to a Local 6 News report.
The Volusia County Sheriff's annual fundraiser event includes celebrity bus racing around the track at the New Smyrna Beach Speedway.
During a practice race Monday, Duggan flipped his bus with a newspaper reporter onboard.
"It just flipped over," Duggan said. "They said stay up high and keep it down. I stayed up high and was keeping it down and once it started to go, it does not respond like anything I've ever driven before."
Duggan was treated for minor cuts and is expected to be OK. The newspaper reporter, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was treated for minor scrapes.
"This is a race, no matter what and anything can happen," Volusia County Sheriff Ben Johnson said. "You don't want anyone getting hurt and you want to put on a good show. No one was hurt, scratched up a little bit."
The annual charity fundraising event begins at the New Smyrna Beach Speedway Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
On this week's Monday Night RAW, it was Good Ol' J.R. Jim Ross that was fired as a result of Stone Cold Steve Austin "Stunning" Vince, Shane, Stephanie, AND Linda McMahon on last week's WWE Homecoming, as WWE returned to the USA Network.
The firing took place at the hands of Linda, rather than Vince McMahon! Linda put an exclamation point to the firing by kicking Good Ol' J.R. right square in the grapefruits, and sending him down.
After RAW went off the air, J.R. finally made his way to his feet, grabbed a microphone, and when asked what he thought about what had just happened. After thanking the fans for being there all these years, he then said that "the McMahon's can kiss my ass!".
This DOES surprise me a little and disappoints me as well. The rumors were going around that J.R. would be fired and the RAW Announcing spot would be going to UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) Announcer, Mike Goldberg. However, Goldberg eventually turned down the WWE offer and decided to re-sign and stay with UFC. So...I thought that Ross would be around a little longer until a suitable replacement could be found. I STILL say that Jim Ross is the BEST blow-by-blow man in the business!
Here is a LATE (Thursday) update from www.wwe.com :
"Earlier today, Jim Ross has been hospitalized to undergo colon surgery. WWE.com will keep you posted if we get any more information."
Well, that does it for another edition of WrestleBeat. I'll be back next time with more news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling.
So, until next time, KEEP BOTH FEET ON THE MAT AND YOUR PUNCHES ABOVE THE BELT! Later, Michael.
(contact Michael Porter by e-mail at kmichaelporter@yahoo.com or by snail-mail at P.O. Box 5282 Marysville, CA. 95901-8521)