SummerSlam Preview

SummerSlam 2015

Oh, boy, NJPW really spoiled this one. Coming live from Brooklyn, NYC, it is the most 'epic' SummerSlam in the history of history. Due to excessive levels of epicness, for the first time in history, the biggest party of the summer will run for four hours in a show that features the resurrection of the undead deadman, a nose more discussed than the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, a bromance that appears to have run its course and a romance that is enough to make even the most ardent romantic feel nauseous.

WWE has pulled out all the stops to bill the 28th annual SummerSlam as the biggest in the company's history. Will SummerSlam live up to the immense hype of WWE's marketing machine? That remains to be seen. But for now, here is my preview of the biggest biggest event of the summer.

Sheamus vs Randy Orton

Straight from bottom of the barrel, with more side headlocks than fans paying attention it is Randy Orton vs Sheamus. Again. In a rivalry no one realised they wanted to see continue, Mr Money in the Bank, Sheamus, faces Randy Orton for what seems like the 4647252 time. Sheamus will be looking to exact his revenge after Orton denied the Celtic Warrior the opportunity to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase on RAW a couple of weeks back.

Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of both Sheamus and Randy Orton but the continuation of this rivalry does neither man any favours. So many opportunities lay wasted whilst this rivalry chugs along in second gear with no end in sight. Why has Orton, who was nowhere to be seen when Sheamus unhooked the case, taken umbrage with Sheamus? It was Neville who Sheamus unceremoniously dispatched before unhooking the case. A Neville/Sheamus rivalry would have surely been more logical but logic, like wrestling, is a dirty word around WWE.

Sure, these two will probably have a solid match but I really feel Sheamus and Orton need to move on from this rivalry in order to inject a new lease of life into their currently stale characters. A return to hoss Sheamus tossing smaller men around (Ziggler in particular), please.

Hopefully a stipulation is attached to this match before SummerSlam starts to save the match from heading towards Groundhog Day territory- maybe a street fight, maybe Sheamus' case will be on the line or maybe even a Kiss me Arse match. Just something... anything to distinguish this match from the previous ones they have had.

Prediction: Sheamus

Rusev (w/ Hot Summer) vs Dolph Ziggler (w/ Lana)

The hypocritical fallacy that is the diva's "revolution" will once again be exposed by Lana who will play the damsel in distress in this despicable morality play. This is a perfect example of WWE's retrospectively rewriting their own history to suit current story lines. Twelve months ago, Lana instructed Rusev when to crush his opponents even encouraging Rusev to adopt her home country of Russia. Now, WWE has rewritten Lana's narrative so she is the object of sympathy in her, allegedly, tortuous relationship with Rusev. What was one of the few powerful, strong female characters in WWE is now a doughy eyed sap every time Dog sorry Dolph Ziggler looks at her. After receiving the kayfabe injury to film WWE's latest straight to the bargain bucket DVD, Ziggler returned last Monday on RAW to a thunderous ovation to make the run in and save his damsel in distress.

During his absence, Ziggler kayfabed his twitter account by sending various emetic tweets to Lana who returned the favour with her own stomach turning responses. If this feud is supposed to make me dislike Ziggler, it is certainly succeeding; at this stage, there is nothing more I want to see than Rusev superkicking that shit eating grin off Ziggler's face back to Hollywood.

Since finishing with Lana, Rusev has taken up with Summer Rae. Inevitably, this rivalry appears to be heading in the direction of a mixed gender tag match at Night of Champions in September. Rusev deserves  the victory here purely based on the fact that he has consistently turned this shit into gold (see Rusev's gifts to Hot Summer , Rusev throws a fish at Lana). 

Without the women present, this has the potential to be one of the matches of the night. However, the women will be a major part of this match.Women, can't love 'em, can't crush 'em, ammirite Rusev?

Prediction: Rusev

King Barrett & Stardust vs Neville & Stephen Amell

I'm not even going to pretend I know who or what a StephenAmellGreenArrow is or even begin to try and comprehend why he is scheduled in a wrestling match at SummerSlam. That being said, a couple of weeks ago on RAW, Amell navigated the ropes with the expertise of a ten year veteran. Sure, the match will be constructed around Amell's limited wrestling ability to ensure he spends as little time as possible in the ring. Much of the in ring duties, I imagine, will be performed by Neville. As of late, random title match with Rollins aside, Neville has been languishing in the black hole that is WWE's mid-card. This match provides Neville with the opportunity to impress a casual audience. In this comic book world of heroes and villains, Neville will be a hero in possession of a flippyshit super power to combat the villains. 

The villains, on the other hand, well they are not doing so well at the moment. Well, one of them isn't.

Has anyone received worse booking since winning King of the Ring than King Barrett? First, the interminable feud with R Truth consigned to the pre-show now this thinly veiled attempted to appeal to the greater populace.  Barrett really must have pissed someone off as he has been doing more jobs than a Polish immigrant. It is a damn shame, too. Barrett is in possession of all the attributes required to take him to the top but WWE seem to have placed him in the midcard 4 life club with Ziggler, Swagger and a man he will be teaming up with.

WWE achieved new levels of meta a couple of weeks ago with Stardust, Barrett's partner and instigator of the feud, when Michael Cole spoke extensively on how Stardust can not distinguish between Stephen Amell the actor and Green Arrow the fictional character before drawing the parallel with Stardust, who can't distinguish that he is Cody Rhodes and not the fictional character Stardust. Stardust's quest for identity could be one of the more highbrow angles WWE has ran for a while. If handled correctly, there is big potential for a Cody Rhodes face return after all this. 

The way things have gone for King Barrett since winning the King of the Ring tournament, I wouldn't be at all surprised if Amell pinned Barrett.

Prediction: Neville & Amell

Los Matadores vs Lucha Dragons vs New Day vs Prime Time Players (C)

For the WWE Tag Team Championships

Wow. I don't even know where to start with this one. At this stage, the WWE Tag Team Titles have as much value as a victory over Zack Ryder on Superstars.

Teams such as reDRagon, The Young Bucks, RPG Vice, The Addiction, Sumerian Death Squad, The Hunter Brothers and the Wolves have revitalised the concept of tag team wrestling over the past few years with fun, entertaining matches. Don't expect anything like that here, though. The New Day are sooooooooo far ahead of anyone else in the division it is unfair to put all these teams in the ring together as it only serves to highlight the incompetence of the other teams:

Lucha Dragons: haven't said a word apart from "Lucha" since arriving on the roster (unsure whether they can speak at all never mind speak English)

Los Matadores: laughing stock of the division since 2013, don't say anything apart from "ole" (again, unsure if they have a deaf mute gimmick)

Prime Time Players: Titus O' Neill is the Danny Welbeck of professional wrestling- every time he gets in the ring, he looks as though he will fuck up. Darren Young is okay, I guess.

New Day: the Paul Heyman of the division.

It was a mistake to take the titles from the New Day at Money in the Bank and WWE will surely rectify their mistake this Sunday. The best we can hope for is a giant clusterfuck spotfest.

Prediction: New Day

The Wyatt Family vs Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose

Some night clubs water down their alcohol. WWE water down their rivalries. In The Wyatt Family vs Shield redux, Bray Wyatt and Luke Harper team up to face Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose- who are best friends, in fact like brothers if you missed it. After Wyatt reconciled with Luke Harper at Battleground, Roman recruited the help of long time friend and part time cheer leader, Dean Ambrose, to over come The Wyatt Family because apparently one versus all isn't a thing any more. 

Since reuniting with Luke Harper, Bray Wyatt has quietly gone about his business. I say this every week but the fans are ready to get behind The Wyatt Family; it is an exciting concept that could carry WWE in a fascinating direction. Thus far, The Wyatt Family haven't had the requisite support from creative to help them reach the next level. But that will come with time, beginning here.

Unfortunately for the ever noble Roman, I think that Dean Ambrose, Roman's brother and only friend wink wink, will do the dirty on him at SummerSlam to finally dissolve the Shield once and for all. WWE's penchant for pegging 6 ft 4'+, 270 pound athletes as underdogs will continue here as the odds will be firmly stacked against Roman in the coming months. Additionally, Dean Ambrose turning his back on Roman gives credence to The Wyatt Family mystique and psychological warfare they so often indulge in. Although Reigns turning his back on his brother would make more sense and re-legitimise the Wyatt's as a psychological threat, WWE is intent on Roman being the next top babyface and I don't expect that to change any time soon.

Prediction: The Wyatt Family

PCB vs Team B.A.D. vs Team Bella

Many fans have suggested this match is scheduled in order to protect Nikki Bella's title thus ensuring she will beat AJ Lee's longest ever reign with the Diva's title. I, too, agree with the theory as with each week that passes the Diva's Revolution is shown to be a distraction, albeit a poor one, from the fact Nikki will pass AJ's longest reign a week before Night of Champions.

At SummerSlam, we have the three diva's factions face off; Pakistan Cricket Board face Team Ethnic and Team Confused Motivations in an elimination tag match because apparently women like to hang around in groups for no particular reason. Seriously, why are these teams together? They share no common purpose, goals or motivations other than the fact Stephanie arbitrarily grouped them all together. 

Anyway, it is what it is and Paige, Charlotte, Becky Lynch team up to face the teams of Sasha Banks, Tamina, Naomi and Nikki, Brie and Alicia Fox. Hopefully this match begins the dissolution of these "factions" thus giving the women a platform to showcase their skills on an individual basis and increase competition for Nikki's title. This probably wont be the case as a couple of weeks ago rumours surfaced that WWE was planning on introducing a Diva's Tag Team Championship. Clearly, someone backstage believes the endless stream of bullshit propaganda spewing from Michael Cole's mouth.

The "Diva's Revolution" is nothing more than savvy branding and a marketing slogan. If you need evidence of this statement, listen to what Jerry "The King" Lawler has to say about the match.

Winner: PCB

Ryback (C) vs The Miz vs Big Show

For the Intercontinental Championship

Sometimes I forget who he Intercontinental Champion is before realising that it is not important anyway. True story: I had to ask Google just exactly who the Intercontinental Champion is. The answer, apparently, is Ryback whose championship reign has been less than memorable.

But, the people seem to like Ryback for some reason as he returned to a good reaction as the camera panned to various fully grown men in the audience wearing Ryback shirts- a fact that is astounding in itself. Ryback's injury has significantly halted his momentum after winning the title at Elimination Chamber (again, I had to Google that). The Big Guy makes his first Intercontinental Championship defence The Miz and Big Show in what seems like an active attempt by WWE to encourage viewers to change the channel.

People often talk of their dream matches in wrestling that never happened; The Undertaker vs Sting, The Rock vs Shawn Michaels, CM Punk vs Stone Cold Steve Austin but this is a nightmare match that is happening. I would be hard pressed to pick three wrestlers I would rather see in a match less than these three. I hope this match receives the ol' diva's division treatment- a two minute match conveniently placed in the middle of the show to coincide with my bladder. 

Prediction: Ryback

Kevin Owens vs Cesaro

After a barrage of fat jokes over the past few weeks, Kevin Owens heads into the SummerSlam weekend with arguably the two most anticipated matches. On Saturday, Owens invokes his rematch clause for the NXT Championship in a ladder match against Finn Balor. On Sunday, Owens meets another man who has been on a role as of late, the Swiss Superman Cesaro. 

In spite of some questionable booking and underhanded comments regarding Owen's weight, this match has the potential, if given ample time, combined with the Brooklyn crowd, to be match of the night and possibly even a match of the year contender. Unfortunately, this match should be for the US Championship- instead, Cena will pointlessly be defending the title in a match that will, in all likelihood, end in a no contest.

Minor quibbles aside, this is the match that i'm looking forward to most on the card. Given enough time, these two, as evidenced by their previous matches in the indies, will tear the house down in a match that will showcase both men's ability and help get them both over in the long run.

This is a tough one to call but I believe Cesaro will pick up the victory in what is hopefully the first match of an extended rivalry.

Prediction: Cesaro

John Cena (US Champ) vs Seth Rollins (WWE WHC)

Winner Takes Both Championships

Over the past few weeks, in big match John's absence, WWE have pushed his broken nose harder than the exceptionally low price of the network. Of course, who could forget, it was Seth Rollins, the WWE World Heavyweight Champion, that delivered the infamous strike that i have seen more times than Randy Orton vs Sheamus and goddamn i have seen that match a lot. The following week, Rollins emerged wearing one of the more creative parodies of John Cena's t shirts. 

Enough preamble. This match has serious potential to be a match of the year contender. As previously demonstrated, Seth Rollins and John Cena have excellent chemistry together and have proven in the past that they are capable of putting on high quality matches. However, my opinion of this match, and I'm sure many others will echo similar sentiments, will be determined by the result. WWE consider that being in the ring with John Cena raises the profile of who ever his opponent may be. There are certain exceptions, mainly CM Punk and Daniel Bryan, but as a general rule, Cena has dispatched many of his opponents back into the midcard after defeating them. 

John Cena really has an opportunity to inject impetuous into Rollins' WWE World Heavyweight Championship which, quite frankly, has been a mere after thought over the past couple of months. John Cena can achieve this with an excellent match followed by him taking the loss. Clean, dirty, whatever, it doesn't matter. Sure, Rollins doesn't need the US Title as well as the WWE World Heavyweight Championship but a John Cena victory sends a resounding message to talent; no matter how well you perform, no matter the reaction you solicit from the crowd, no matter how much you improve you are not immune to Mr Make a Wish coming to steal your thunder. 

No one gets the divisive reaction like Cena- as Cena pointed out on RAW, the crowd chants "lets go Cena/Cena sucks"- nothing to do with Rollins. Being in a high profile feud with Cena does elevate his opponent but losing to Cena and then floundering in the midcard does not. For the first time in Rollins' WWE World Heavyweight Championship run I am doubting Rollins will walk out as champion. I guess that is a good thing.

However, my faith in WWE has not completely dissipated despite the constant flow of bullshit and dissatisfaction. I can't see Cena being victorious here. In fact, I can't see anyone being victorious here and leaving with both the WWE World Heavyweight Championship and the US Championship. Rollins has been far too good to just get LOLCENAWINS'd and I don't think he will be.

Prediction: No Contest/Double Pin/Everything remains the same

Brock Lesnar vs The Undertaker

You know you're in trouble when Heyman can't sell you on a match when the guy could sell you a holiday to Tunisia.

Admittedly, WWE is not always about the wrestling. Sometimes, the spectacle and the story triumphs over athletic feats or mat wrestling. But what if the story tells of an embittered 50 something year old man constantly blindisding the sympathetic would be champion with low blows because he can't beat him fair and square? 

Despite the years and years of entertainment, memories and thrills the Undertaker has provided this match should not be happening. Either Lesnar loses his mystique or Undertaker does and it must be Undertaker considering his age.

As with any match, there are three options.

1. Lesnar defeats Undertaker- What was the point of Undertaker returning?
2. Undertaker defeats Lesnar- What was the point of Lesnar defeating the streak? In fact, what would be the point of the last 15 months?
3. The match ends in a no contest- What was the point of any of this? Please, not another bullshit ending to avoid Lesnar losing or beating anyone. Surely they can't keep using Lesnar this way.

All three options are less than appealing and no amount of Paul Heyman's genius, brawls across the arena, smoke and mirrors will change that. The concept of this rematch being "too big for WrestleMania" is astounding and only confirms that if you lock WWE creative in a room they won't produce the works of Shakespeare but instead this type of non-statement that concurrently undermines the biggest event in wrestling as well as diminishing the importance of WrestleMania 30. 

What route WWE goes remains to be seen but either Brock Lesnar conquered the streak for nothing or Undertaker started something he couldn't finish to borrow a line from Morrissey. This match seems to be a desperate attempt to attract former fans to a currently stale product- this match was headlining PPV's in 2002!

As painful as it is to say, Brock Lesnar must retire Undertaker by not only defeating him but brutally victimising him. Will this happen? I think that that outcome is the least likely of three. I feel like Undertaker gets the win here before things finish where the legacy of Undertaker began, WrestleMania.

Prediction: Undertaker

RAW Review 17/08/2015

Appearances from The Undertaker, Brock Lesnar and John Cena ensured RAW had ample star power to carry the show in Minneapolis, Minnesota at the final destination on WWE's road to the "most epic SummerSlam in history". The show began with HHH and Stephanie putting aside their authoritarian personae in order to proceed into a desperate 15 minute advert for SummerSlam. For some reason, WWE believes that a longer show equates to a better quality programme. Evidently, HHH is a big fan of the movie Ben Hur. In other segments, Ryback defeated one of the men involved in the Intercontinental championship triple threat match, all of the tag division engaged in an insipid eight man tag match that lasted a whole two minutes and, once again, a tag match shoe horned two rivalries together. The show concluded after The Undertaker, post a 15 minute promo detailing how beloved 'Taker is, interrupted a Paul Heyman promo to perform yet another sneak attack/ low blow on Brock Lesnar which was rightfully booed by the crowd.

All in all, many inexplicable events occurred on RAW ranging from the mildly irritating to the wildly infuriating in a show that unenthusiastically chugged on towards SummerSlam.

Here is my three point RAW review.

The Diva's Revolution: a hypocritical fallacy 

Revolution: A forcible overthrow of a  social order, in favour of a new system

OED

Since beginning this blog, I have dedicated very few lines to women's wrestling. But El Specifico, I hear you cry, you started the blog the same time as the "Diva's Revolution". Yes, whilst that is true, I have very little interest in women's wrestling. Actually, I have very little interest in women's wrestling in the WWE and that has not changed since the "revolution" in women, sorry, diva's wrestling.

Five weeks ago, Stephanie McMahon, for inexplicable reasons, decided to tap herself on the back before introducing the women of NXT under the epithet "Diva's Revolution" to increase competition in the division. Ever since then, WWE have confirmed that the Diva's Revolution is no more than excellent branding and good ol' fashioned circle jerkery. The only noticeable changes are that matches are now slightly longer and now there are two diva's matches instead of one. Apart from those two points, it is a struggle to identify any thing else that has been revolutionised in the diva's division.

Lots of issues still remain in the presentation of women's wresting that are unresolved despite continual reminder that this is a revolution.

• For a start, diva is not a good word and may as well be used as a synonym for spoilt bitch. Why the title is not named the Women's Championship is beyond my powers of comprehension.
• Characters need motivations for their actions. As things stand, the Bella's flip flop between heel and face without any motivations for doing so. In fact, this is a much broader point that extends well beyond the Women's division (see HHH, Stephanie McMahon, Big Show, Mark Henry).
• The women wrestlers rarely get time on the mic- for so long, WWE has driven home the point of the importance of connecting with the audience (see Vince McMahon's comments on Cesaro, HHH's comments to CM Punk) and extended time on the mic is the way to achieve this. Yet the women are barely given a chance to connect with the fans outside their matches.
• The character of Lana reeks of double standards; the revolution line states that the female performers should be taken seriously due to their ability. This is not the case for Lana, she can tweet/instagram about her "legacy" as much as she likes but the fact remains she is only their due to her appearance and it stinks of hypocricy to concurrently push women for their atheltic prowess yet push Lana solely on her appearance.  
• The commentary team only appears to be hyping how they are impressive because they are female. If a true revolution were to take place, the athletes should be hyped on their athletic ability regardless of their gender. There is a big difference between the two.
• Another point regarding commentary: Jerry 'the King' Lawler either needs to stop with the perverted comments or stop doing commentary. If WWE wants to re-brand how their female athletes are considered, which they evidently do, The King can not sit on commentary passing comments like "you know what makes these Diva's matches better, I pretend they are fighting over me".

Despite the endless talk of revolution, the fact remains; WWE's attitude towards women's wrestling remains remarkably similar to a past they are desperately attempting to separate themselves from. 

WWE Word Heavyweight Championship and United States Championship Contract Signing

WWE refrained from using the traditional contract signing tropes wrestling fans are so accustomed to; this time, no one was sent crashing though the table and, quite frankly, the segment was better for it.

HHH and Stephanie McMahon returned to their role as The Authority to introduce the WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Seth Rollins. Rollins first offered congratulations to HHH and Stephanie for assembling an "epic" four hour SummerSlam before congratulating the fans who will witness history being made as Rollins becomes the first person ever to hold both WWE World Heavyweight Championship and the United States Championship. Rollins proceeded to quote Bob Dylan to inform fans that the times are a changing and the WWE Universe will no longer be held hostage by John Cena.

John Cena arrives after missing the previous two weeks of RAW with a broken nose. Despite the injury, his nose still doesn't look as crooked as HHH's. John Cena, sarcastically, joked how Rollins is so original in his t-shirts/actions in mocking him before claiming Rollins is an imitation of himself... Before leaving, Cena stated that he will be getting payback on Seth Rollins not by injuring him but by defeating him to become a 16 time World Champion.

Cena has a real chance to elevate Rollins and his title without actually winning it. No one gets a reaction out of every single person in the crowd like John Cena and by having him in the WWE World Heavyweight Championship picture once again does re-establish the title's importance that, lets be honest, has been considered an after thought for the past five weeks. With Cena's presence, the stakes are certainly raised. However, I'm surprised that the winner will take both titles. Considering the match is not scheduled as the main event, to me, that suggests that their won't be a winner in this match. Instead, i expect something especially funky in all likelihood involving Sheamus and his briefcase.

Brothers in Arms

Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns are brothers. Brothers that go out and drink beer together. Family that sticks together, through thick and thin. Brothers that would take a bullet for one another. Brothers that stick together through the tough times.Brothers that will ALWAYS (Hint hint, wink wink) have each other's backs.

Do you get the point?

Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns are brothers- so much so, in fact, that Dean Ambrose continued to fulfil his role of personal cheer leader to Roman Reigns during his match with Luke Harper on Monday night Raw.

Dean Ambrose took up a position on commentary to watch a solid match between Roman Reigns and Luke Harper. Harper is one of the few people on the roster that has good chemistry with Reigns and whenever these two meet they usually produce a hard hitting encounter and this one was further improved by Ambrose's commentary. Roman Reigns picked up the win after connecting with a spear. After the match, Wyatt pensively looked on from ringside whilst Reigns and Ambrose celebrated in the ring.

With foreshadowing as subtle as John Cena's new Gatorade t shirt, at this stage it would be more surprising if Dean Ambrose or Roman Reigns didn't turn on their former Shield brethren on Sunday. My money is on Dean Ambrose to do the dirty on Roman due to WWE's unwavering desire to push Roman Reigns as the next top babyface regardless of how fans continue to gravitate towards other wrestlers. A turn either way would be a good move as it would finally dissolve the Shield for good thus allowing the triple threat match between Ambrose, Reigns and Rollins to finally take place. Will WWE have the cojones to execute the turn in front of a hostile Brooklyn crowd that will, in all likely hood, produce cheers from the smarky crowd? That remains to be seen.

I don't know if it is testament to how much Roman Reigns has improved other the past eight months or testament to how underwhelming the final RAW before SummerSlam was but this was the best segment of the night despite retaining the same old Roman Reigns match formula.

ICW: And Now For Something Completely Different 9th August Report and Review

ICW returned to Edinburgh for the second show of their Fringe Festival run. ICW: And Now For Something Completely Different witnessed nothing different from Red Lightning as he continued to ensure that the members of the ICW locker room that are not with him are punished, a wrestling clinic between Jack Gallagher and Mikey Whiplash, an intensely emotional promo by Joe Coffey and the return of fan favourites, IRN JEW.  All in all, the night provided something for everyone as the Scottish indie continues to go from strength to strength.

The night began, though, with the return of Dickie Divers- a man who has experienced his fair share of turmoil recently.

Dickie Divers vs Damo

Fresh off a devastating loss in a ladder match for the Square Go contract against former N.A.K. ally, Chris Renfrew, Dickie Divers arrives tonight after no showing his scheduled match last week. Not many could have predicted the ire and derision of the fans that Divers' seemingly produces as of late as chants of "we're having a party when Divers dies" follow him to the ring. Unfortunately for Divers, things don't get any easier as he comes up against a man who for the past few months has been determined to prove a point to everyone at ICW. Just two weeks ago, Damo was almost vindicated as he pinned the ICW World Heavyweight Champion, Drew Galloway, before Red Lightning over ruled the decision in a typical act of nepotism.

As the two face off in the ring, Divers slaps the much bigger man- an unwise decision as Damo, infuriated by Divers lack of respect, tosses Divers into the turnbuckle. Damo unloads several fierce chops in the corner before Divers lands an enziguri that successfully sends Damo to the outside. Divers looks to capitalise with a drop kick followed by and axe handle to the outside but Divers' offence is ineffective on the much bigger man, who gets straight back to his feet. Damo delivers a huge lariat in the centre of the ring...1...2... Damo toys with Divers, pulling Divers' shoulders from the mat. Again, Damo toys with his prey after connecting with a second lariat. Damo, pulling Divers' lifeless body to his feet, delivers a third devastating lariat and this time covers him for the three count.

After the match, Damo quoted the old adage that, to be the man, you must first beat the man. Two weeks ago, Damo beat the man and now claims to be the true ICW World Heavyweight Champion. Before leaving, Damo swore retribution on Red Lightning, Jack Jester and Drew Galloway.

Winner: Damo

Jack Gallagher vs Mikey Whiplash

After months of battling the N.A.K up and down the country in crimson warfare, Mikey Whiplash got the opportunity to exhibit a different element of his style against the Gentleman Grappler, Jack Gallagher. A handshake, something Whiplash is very much unaccustomed to as late, begins proceedings as a waist lock by Whiplash is reversed into a wrist lock by Gallagher before Whiplash reverses into a wrist lock of his own. Gallagher, finally, escapes the hold and wrenches the elbow of Whiplash after a drop toe hold take down. Again, Whiplash reverses the hold before wrenching the arm of Gallagher, who stands on his head in order to escape the hold.

Both men have wrestled all over the world with Jack Gallagher quickly gaining a reputation as one of the finest grapplers around the UK- Whiplash, on the other hand, is not often granted the opportunity to demonstrate his technical acumen and has become synonymous with hardcore macthes. Whiplash and Gallagher lock up again before Whiplash, using his size and strength advantage, momentarily grounds Gallagher with a side headlock before Gallagher applies a head scissor lock to break the hold. Whiplash, taking a leaf out of Gallagher's book, escapes after a head stand. Gallagher, not allowing Whiplash time to catch his breath, continues to work the left arm of the former ICW Heavyweight Champion, Whiplash- Whiplash manages to free his arm before a roll up attempt, Gallagher kicks out and rolls up Whiplash before the two trade roll ups around the ring. After several circles around the ring, Whiplash breaks the hold and sends Gallagher to the outside. Gallagher dodges a boot before returning to work on the left arm.

After rolling Whiplash back in the ring, Gallagher lifts the heavier man into a vertical suplex- Gallagher holds Whiplash above his head for 20 seconds before dropping him to the mat. Gallagher locks in the arm bar but Whiplash manages to lock his arms together to ensure it is not applied with maximum leverage- Whiplash powers out lifting Gallagher up with one arm to deliver a single arm powerbomb. Whiplash successfully hits The Zombie Maker before Stevie Boy, member of the N.A.K., causes a distraction in the crowd. Chris Renfrew, also of the N.A.K., briefcase in hand, stands behind Whiplash in the ring and connects with a ferocious shot that breaks the briefcase as well as Whiplash. Renfrew drags Gallagher over Whiplash to pick up the victory- not in the way he would have hoped. Chants of "both these guys" break out as Whiplash and Gallagher shake hands in the ring after demonstrating why they are two of the best technicians around.

Whiplash challenges Gallagher to a rematch the next time he wrestles for ICW. I don't think anyone would have any complaints about that. This was a high calibre match that showcased both men's mat wrestling ability.

Mikey Whiplash continues to encounter problems with the N.A.K. Next week, Whiplash will have the opportunity to exact his revenge pitting Legion (Whiplash, Tommy End and Michael Dante) against the N.A.K in a three on three tag match at the third show in ICW Edinburgh Festival run.

Winner: Jack Gallagher

DCT vs Michael Chase

Chants of "O O O O O O O" followed the award winning, head board banging, scoop slamming International Sex Hero DCT to the ring. Accompanied by Coach, polo mallet in hand, DCT faces a man making his debut in ICW tonight. Michael Chase enters the match knowing a victory over DCT will elevate his status in ICW as the two men lock up to get things under way. DCT asks "who bad?" before Michael Chase slaps the new Mr Viper in the face. DCT drives Chase into the corner with several forearm shots followed by a big back body drop. Coach's continual tooting of his whistle annoys Michael Chase, who heads to the outside to make him stop. Chase's preoccupation with Coach allows DCT to sneak up behind him, tap him on the shoulder before landing a few forearms shots before rolling Chase back into the ring.

Chase, encouraged by the support of the crowd, lands a couple of knee drops to the face of the International Sex Hero. Showing increased aggression, Chase lands a suplex followed up by several forearm shots in the corner. DCT ducks a forearm before delivering four consecutive scoop slams to the débutante- kick out at 2. Michael Chase, after dodging an attempted penalty kick by DCT lands the Cut to the Chase- DCT kicks out at 2. Chase, sensing his opportunity to deliver a surprise victory, attempts a springboard splash to find nobody home! DCT locks in the Pillow Talk Sleeper submission, or The Rohypnol as Billy Kirkwood aptly named it, as Michael Chase begins to fade allowing DCT to pick up the victory via submission. I'm certain we will see Michael Chase return to an ICW ring in the near future after an impressive debut.

After the match, DCT swears to get revenge on Bram for piledriving his wife through the wedding cake on the day of his wedding.


Winner: DCT

IRN Jew vs The Rodgers Brothers to determine #1 contenders for the ICW Tag Team Championships

And Now For Something Completely Different witnessed he return of one of the most popular tag teams in professional wrestling all over the world. IRN JEW, comprised of American indie icon Colt Cabana and Grado, meet a team with somewhat of a point to prove in a match to determine the #1 contenders to Polo Promotions ICW Tag Team Championships. The Rodgers Brothers make their way to the ring sensing a fantastic opportunity to pull a huge upset over IRN JEW. Weighing in at approximately fourteen Ronda Rouseys, IRN JEW make their way to the ring to the loudest ovation of the night. Grado and Colt Cabana soak up the party atmosphere before heading back behind the curtain believing nothing can top that entrance.

The Rodgers Brothers prowl the ring incensed by the perceived lack of respect by IRN JEW. Chants of "Colt Cabana, it's your sel" convince IRN JEW to return to the ring as the two teams square up for the first time. Confusion ensues when Cabana can't understand Grado's accent until he feigns an American one- IRN JEW, literally, begin the feeling out process in a very physical way. As the match finally gets under way, The Rodgers Brothers gain the initial advantage before attempting two in sync German suplexes- unfortunately, The Rodgers Brothers can not lift the two heavier men despite their best encouragement. IRN JEW simultaneously escape the hold before delivering concurrent headbutts which appears to do more damage to Grado who falls in a heap on the mat. Colt Cabana encourages his partner and friend to his feet before a double belly bash by IRN JEW. Chants of easy echo around the arena as Grado delivers a big back body drop followed by a double elbow by Cabana and Grado.

Lost in translation again, Cabana mistakes Grado's call of double elbow for kick. This time, Cabana calls kick but Grado delivers an elbow before Cabana begins to work over Danny Rodgers in the corner. Cabana tags in Grado who picks up where Cabana left off immediately connecting with a flurry of chops before hurting his hand in the process. After Cabana tends to Grado's injury with a towel, a drop toe hold sends Danny Rodgers into the turnbuckle. Grado looks for the Roll 'n' slice before a huge lariat by Rory Rodgers prevents it. Rory delivers a scoop slam before a series of double team moves by The Rodgers Brothers. Danny makes the tag to Rory who delivers a drop kick to Grado. An attempted pinfall is broken by Colt Cabana. Another tag is made as Danny Rodgers applies a rear chin lock- chants of "you're just a shite Ron Weasley" distract Danny giving Grado a chance to power out to make the tag to Colt Cabana. Cabana bursts into the ring delivering a series of devastating chops to both brothers before delivering consecutive elbows- after connecting with the Roll 'n' Slice, Grado calls for the Get Tae Bed but an elbow blindsides Cabana before The Rodgers Brothers connect with a double team spine buster sending Cabana to the outside.

Rory Rodgers throws a big lariat at a returning Colt Cabana- Cabana ducks out of the way before Grado finally connects with the Ayrshire Dream Elbow. Grado, stalking his opponent, lands the Rock Bottom of Stevenson sending Rory to the outside. Colt Cabana lifts Danny on his shoulders to deliver the Get Tae Bed followed by a Wee Boot from Grado to pick up the victory much to the delight of the audience in attendance.

IRN JEW are the new #1 contenders to the ICW Tag Team Championships after a victory here and will go on to meet the winners of Polo Promotions and Sumerian Death Squad in two weeks time.

Winner: IRN JEW

Joe Coffey makes his way to the ring despite not being scheduled to appear

As Noam Dar was being announced for his match, Joe Coffey solemnly made his way to the ring wearing a rain coat and carrying his wrestling boots. Not scheduled in a match tonight, Coffey announces how he is sick of his potential constantly being limited by Red Lightning. Coffey asks where is the ICW World Heavyweight Champion, Drew Galloway, and why he is being protected so much. Chants of "fuck the champ" break out before Coffey, raw emotion spilling from him, states Galloway is nothing but a paper champion. Tears streaming down his face, to the shock of the crowd, Joe Coffey announces he will be retiring from wrestling due to the continual road blocks Red Lightning & Co keep resurrecting.

Red Lightning arrives to inform Coffey that he needs Coffey on his show and is just testing him to make him better. Coffey, all fired up, demands that Drew Galloway defends his ICW World Heavyweight Championship next week before imploring "Andy" to do the right thing. Red Lightning agrees to Coffey's request before leaving only to return moments later to inform the audience that he was joking. Red Lightning notifies Coffey he will be facing Galloway next week but in a non title match- Red Lightning states if you can beat the champion you can have your shot at his title. Joe Coffey agrees to Red Lightning stipulation before exiting through the crowd. Red Lightning remains ringside to watch Noam Dar's match, a man the ICW General Manager has taken a disliking to as of late.

Noam Dar vs Jack Jester

The Jew-di Master, Noam Dar, is the first to the ring and tonight faces one of the toughest challenges in his young, yet impressive, career.  After an introduction by ICW's General manager, Red Lightning, Jack Jester arrives to the ring sunglasses on, can of beer in the hand. Jester prowls around the ring in no rush to begin the match casually sipping his beer. Jester, former fan favourite, spits a mouthful of beer in the face of a member of the crowd as cries of disgust break out. After multiple more walks around the ring, the bell finally rings as Jester, with the size and strength advantage, faces Noam Dar, with the speed and agility advantage, as the two lock up for the first time. Jester grounds Dar with a series of forearm shots before connecting with a leg drop. Dar is able to land a brief flurry of offence before Jester, once again, continues the mind games by heading out of the ring. Jester asks for the bell to ring-Red Lightning accedes in a demonstration of his power.

Chants of "Noam Dar" are replaced by chants of "fuck you, Jester" as the match gets under way for a second time. Jester flips of the crowd whilst applying an arm wrench to the left arm of Dar, who reverses the hold before connecting with a clothesline that sends the former ICW Heavyweight Champion to the side. As Dar and Jester brawl ringside, Dar is temporarily distracted by Red Lightning, a man who has consistently gone out of his way to interfere with Dar's business over the past few months. A rake to the eye allows Jester to gain the advantage before heading to the outside again- this time, Dar connects with a suicide dive that sends Jester crashing into the barricade. Again, Red Lightning proves too much of a distraction for Dar- Jester, using his experience, takes advantage with a cheap shot from behind. After rolling Dar back into the ring, Jester delivers a piledriver...1...2... Dar kicks out at 2! Jester, angered by the audacity of the kick out, slaps Dar to his feet before trading forearms in the centre of the ring. Two drop kicks by Dar allow him to connect with a bridging northern lights suplex- kick out at 2. This time, Red Lighting stands on the apron to cause the distraction- Jester picks up Dar looking for the Tombstone but Dar reverses into a leg lock! Desperately clawing for the ropes, Jester is assisted by Red Lightning who pushes the rope in the direction of Jester- who gratefully grabs the ropes. Noam Dar, incensed by Red Lightning's continual assistance of Jester, picks up a steel chair before threatening the ICW General Manager. Jester delivers a lariat from behind before rolling Dar back into the ring. Jester, to the sound of vehement boos, delivers the Tombstone Piledriver to pick up the victory.

Jester and Red lightning enter the ring to continue the beat down- Red Lightning stomps on Dar in the centre of the ring. Damo comes rushing out to make the save before Drew Galloway appears on the big screen- Galloway reminds everyone it was he that made ICW's Heavyweight Championship a World Heavyweight Championship. Galloway states he is coming to the ring- Damo welcomes the prospect before Galloway reappears on the screen, informing Damo that he turns up whenever he likes because he is the champion. Damo, transfixed on the big screen, doesn't notice Jester sneaking up behind him, steel chair in hand, before delivering a cheap shot from behind. Three chair shots ground Damo before Jester and Lightning untie the second rope proceeding to choke Damo out in the centre of the ring.

Winner: Jack Jester

Nikki Storm vs Debbie Sharpe

An eight way elimination tournament will determine who is the first ever ICW Women's Champion to be crowned at Fear and Loathing VIII. Nikki Storm, the self proclaimed "best in the universe", is accompanied to the ring by her protege and "second best in the universe", Sammi Jayne. Tonight, Storm faces Debbie Sharpe in the first match of the tournament for the ICW Women's Championship.

A distraction by Sammi Jayne allows Nikki Storm to gain the initial advantage before a drop kick by Debbie Sharpe sends Storm to the outside. Another distraction by Sammi Jayne provides Storm a chance to recover, Storm hits a snap suplex followed by an inverted neck breaker for a close fall. Sharpe, after a reversal, sends Storm to the outside as an argument ensues between the first and second best in the universe. Debbie Sharpe knocks both their heads together followed by two clotheslines and a neck breaker- Storm kicks out at 2. Debbie Sharpe lands a guillotine elbow  as the referee breaks up the count due to a distraction by Sammi Jayne on the apron. Storm takes advantage of the confusion by delivering the Eye of the Storm to pick up the victory and advance to the semi finals of the tournament.

Winner: Nikki Storm 

Sumerian Death Squad vs Polo Promotions (c) for the ICW Tag Team Championships

Polo Promotions, since defeating the international dream team of The Brian Kendrick and Paul London at the Barrowlands, have defeated all comers in their reign as tag champions but have never faced a team as devastatingly brutal as the Sumerian Death Squad. After defeating the N.A.K. last week, the Sumerian Death Squad, comprised of Tommy End and Michael Dante, face the ICW Tag Team Champions, Polo Promotions, with the championships on the line.

Mark Coffey and Tommy End get things under way- both men jockey for position early on before Tommy End offers his hand, End holds on and rolls Mark Coffey up for a two count. End tags in Michael Dante who immediately grounds Mark Coffey with a shoulder block take down. A drop kick by Mark Coffey gives Polo Promotions the momentum as Coffey tags in his partner, Jackie Polo.

Polo Promotions prove why they have been so successful as champions by cornering the much larger Michael Dante to keep him as far away from his partner as possible. Dante manages to escape the corner by delivering several stiff shots to Jackie Polo's chest- Dante tags in End as a hip toss is punctuated with a kick by End. After several uppercuts, End lands a snap suplex. A series of quick tags allow the Sumerian Death Squad to remain in control before a standing double foot stomp to the chest of Mark Coffey. Dante delivers a scoop slam- Jackie Polo, infuriated by the temerity, enters the ring to break up the count granting Coffey an opportunity to catch his breath. Coffey, encouraged by the crowd, attempts to make the tag but Tommy End stops him by dragging him back to the centre of the ring. A cross body by Mark Coffey finally grants him the opportunity to tag in Jackie Polo- which he does. A fired up Jackie Polo delivers four scoop slams to Tommy End before Michael Dante attempts to put an end to the carnage- Jackie Polo scoop slams Dante too!

Jackie Polo tags in Mark Coffey before Polo Promotions hit some of their signature offence- Polo Promotions connect with the Black Hole for a close fall. After going to work on Dante, Polo Promotions neglect the presence of Tommy End who connects with a yakuza kick. Chris Renfrew of the N.A.K appears in the crowd to cause the distraction to the Sumerian Death Squad- Jackie Polo rolls Tommy End up, kick out at 2! A jumping knee by End followed by a lariat by Dante allows Sumerian Death Squad to set up the High Man's Death but Renfrew pulls Michael Dante to the outside before it connects. Tommy End, torn between two battles, in confusion, is on the receiving end of Polo Promotion's double team bridging German suplex as Jackie Polo makes the cover to pick up the win and retain the ICW Tag Team Championships thanks to the interference of the N.A.K.

Mikey Whiplash rushes down to the ring to chase away Stevie Boy and Chris Renfrew but the damage has already been done. The battle will continue next week when Legion face the N.A.K.

It is Polo Promotions that go on to face IRN JEW in two weeks time for the ICW Tag Team Championships.

Winner: Polo Promotions

Matches of the Week 07/08/2015-14/08/2015

This week's matches of the week are dominated by NJPW as the 25th annual G1 Climax  reaches it's conclusion. Exceptional matches between Tanahashi/Styles, Shibata/Tanahashi and Goto/Okada feature in this week's best matches along with an incredibly hard hitting contest between Chris Hero and Tommy End. This week's matches of the week begin with a the main event of this week's ROH TV as tension between Adam Cole and The Kingdom continued to grow in a highly entertaining main event.

The Kingdom vs reDRagon

Available to watch here:

The hottest tag division in pro wrestling threw together two of the hottest tag teams in the world in this week's main event of ROH TV. This week, reDRagon faced The Kingdom to jockey for position in a highly competitive tag division.

Accompanied to the ring by the 1st lady of ROH, Maria Kanellis, The Kingdom make their way to the ring having experienced their fair share of turmoil as of late. Adam Cole's perceived dissension in the ranks has divided The Kingdom culminating in Maria announcing that she will be looking to find a new member in The Kingdom to challenge for the ROH Title. reDRagon, partly the cause of the problems in The Kingdom due to Cole's relationship with Fish and O Reilly in particular, are next to arrive. After adhering to the code of honour, Tavern and Bennett pay rock, paper, scissors to determine who will start the match- Tavern is victorious. No such frivolities by reDRagon as Kyle O Reilly and Matt Tavern get things under way as Adam Cole makes his way to the ring to take a position on commentary. Tavern and O Reilly trade arm wrenches before O Reilly momentarily manages to lock in the arm bar- Tavern breaks the hold almost immediately by reaching the ropes before tagging in his partner, Michael Bennett. O Reilly uses the opportunity to tag in Fish, who delivers some stiff kicks to the chest before a series of quick tags allow reDRagon to stay on top.

O Reilly, during the commercial break, locks in the arm bar assisted by the ropes before delivering a running knee to Tavern on the outside. A distraction from Maria allows The Kingdom to beat down O Reilly ringside despite Bobby Fish's protest. Now back in the ring, randomly, O Reilly channels his inner Rock to land a few blows a la The Rock on Bennett before Bennett channels his inner Stone Cold Steve Austin, landing a lou thesz press followed by Stone Cold's signature elbow drop. A series of double team moves wear down O Reilly before he makes the hot tag to Bobby Fish, who once again delivers several fierce kicks to the chest of Tavern. Fish connects with the exploder on the turnbuckle followed by a samoan drop on the incoming Bennett. Signature reDRagon offence halts The Kingdom's momentum before the match descends into chaos as all men four men brawl in the centre of the ring. The Kingdom emerge victorious from this particular battle, delivering their 'tribute' to the Hardy Boys- a Twist of Fate followed by a Swanton Bomb. The Kingdom look to end things with the spike piledriver variation but a reversal by Fish allows reDRagon to hit more double team offence.

O Reilly trades blows with Tavern in the centre of the ring before O Reilly attempts the rebound lariat- a superkick by Bennett sends O Reilly crashing to the outside. Despite Adam Cole's objections, The Kingdom deliver a devastating Hail Mary to the protective matting outside the ring to Kyle O Reilly. A two on one assault is halted temporarily by Bobby Fish before Bennett connects with a devastating spear. A second Hail Mary connects-this time to Fish- as Tavern makes the cover to pick up the victory. The Kingdom begin a vicious post-match assault on Fish which is broken up by Adam Cole. Tensions further rise in The Kingdom as Maria tells Bennett and Tavern to stop before leaving- without Adam Cole.

Katsuyori Shibata vs Hiroshi Tanahashi

Available to watch here:

During NJPW's nadir, it was Katsuyori Shibata that left the sinking ship to wrestle else where. Tanahashi, amongst others, helped resurrect the company from the embers to re-establish NJPW as one of the biggest promotions in the world. The comparison was made between Tanahashi/Shibata and John Cena/ The Rock; in a word, these two men hate each other. Tanahashi considers Shibata a glory hunter. Shibata considers Tanahashi the golden boy who needs dethroning.

As the match gets under way, Shibata gains the initial advantage locking on an indian death lock early on- Shibata transitions into a bow and arrow submission but Tanahashi rolls through. Not many compare to Shibata's technical acumen but the face of NJPW is certainly one of them who could challenge Shibata's technical nous. Tanahashi locks in an inverted indian death lock of his own before Shibata reaches the ropes. Shibata attempts an abdominal stretch-but Tanahashi escapes momentarily before Shibata applies the figure four. A series of kicks to the leg by Shibata are evidence of an attempt to ensure Tanahashi can not perform the High Fly Flow. Shibata delivers more stiff kicks in the corner before looking for the basement dropkick- wisely, Tanahashi gets out the way before he begins work on Shibata's legs to negate his kicking ability. A dragon screw leg whip sends Shibata to the outside before Tanahashi tosses Shibata into the metal guard rails. Back in the ring, Tanahashi delivers some strikes in the corner but quickly this is made to seem like a bad idea; not many in the world can match Shibata strike for strike. Shibata, after winning the strike battle, delivers a basement dropkick followed by an arm trap suplex- Tanahashi kicks out at 2. Shibata, now targeting the neck, applies an octopus stretch in the centre of the ring. After a considerable length of time in the submission hold, Tanahashi breaks out to deliver a shot to the leg as both men fall to the ring under the weight of their pride. Tanahashi locks in a clover leaf after several stomps to Shibata's hamstrings- Shibata, somehow, claws his way to the ropes.

Tanahashi heads up top looking for the High Fly Flow but Shibata is on his feet- Shibata catches Tanahashi before delivering a gorilla press, attempted Penalty Kick attempt ducked under by Tanahashi, who then delivers the swingblade. Shibata is straight to his feet and delivers a death valley driver to the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion as both men hit the mat again. Shibata is first to his feet but Tanahashi delivers a corkscrew neck breaker before heading up to the top rope to successfully land the High Fly Flow on a standing Shibata- a second High Fly Flow attempt is met by the knees of Shibata who, sensing his opportunity, locks in the sleeper as Tanahashi begins to fade before Tanahashi rolls backwards to pin Shibata's shoulders to the mat for the three count in what was a fantastic back and forth contest. Hitherto his match with AJ Styles, this was easily Tanahashi's best performance of the tournament and a crucial 2 points gained over long time rival, Shibata.

Tomohiro Ishii vs Hirooki Goto 

Available to watch here

In one of the most eagerly anticipated contests in this year's G1, Tomohiro Ishii met IWGP Intercontinental Champion, Hirooki Goto, in a match that had widespread implications in Block B. Both men entered the match tied on eight points a piece and a win here for either man would effectively eliminate the other thus ensuring the winner could mount a challenge in the final week of the tournament.

As the match begins, both men trade stiff strikes in the centre of the ring but neither man is moving. Goto and Ishii trade what seem like thousands of forearms as both men finally come crashing to the mat at the same time. Ishii is the first man to his feet and takes the opportunity to talk a little trash to the IWGP Intercontinental Champion- Goto responds with a series of brutal chops to the chest before huge strike by Ishii sends Goto crashing back into the mat. Ishii delivers a brainbuster for a near fall before the shorter man, Ishii, decides to slap Goto back into consciousness. Angered by such temerity, Goto offers Ishii a free attempt to knock him down- rebounding of the ropes, Ishii delivers a lariat that doesn't succeed in grounding Goto. Ishii returns the favour, offering Goto a free attempt to try and knock him over- Goto delivers a lariat of his own which doesn't succeed in grounding Ishii either- this continues six more times before Goto delivers a devastating lariat that sends Ishii to the mat.

Goto, sensing his opportunity, delivers a neck breaker to the knee before heading to the top rope- Ishii follows Goto to the top as the two exchange blows in the high rent district. Goto delivers a powerbomb from the top rope as both men crumble to the mat. Again, both men encourage one another to hit harder but, again, both men are not willing to budge before Goto sends Ishii crashing to the mat- Ishii immediately returns to his feet before delivering a ferocious lariat of his own that sends Goto crashing to the mat.

Goto and Ishii trade shots as they gradually return to their feet- Goto attempts a headbutt which is met by the fist of Ishii, who delivers a headbutt of his own. Goto's headbutts succeed in knocking Ishii off balance- Goto lifts Ishii to deliver the Ura Shouten to ensure he enters the final day of Block B with a chance of progressing to the finals.

Hiroshi Tanahashi vs AJ Styles

Tied on 12 points a piece going into the final round of Block A matches, Hiroshi Tanahashi and AJ Styles knew that the winner of the match would have the opportunity to face the winner of Block B to determine who will be in the main event of Wrestle Kingdom 10 at the Tokyo Dome competing for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship. Only a few months ago, it was AJ Styles, with the assistance of the Bullet Club, who defeated Tanahashi for the the IWGP Heavyweight Championship. But now, both men enter chasing the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.

As the match gets under way, a series of reversals ensue to illustrate how well these two competitors know each other. Tanahashi slaps AJ before going to work on AJ's left leg, sending his knee hurtling towards the ring post on several occassions before some viscious stomps to the left hamstring of AJ. Styles manages to send Tanahashi to the outside and quickly follows suit, dropping Tanahashi from up high on to the steel barricade. AJ rolls Tanahashi back into the ring and maintains control through several stomps in the corner working over Tanahashi's left leg. AJ, clutching his left leg, delivers a beautiful drop kick followed by Okada's Rainmaker pose-a signal of his intentions to recapture the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.

Tanahashi ducks under a splash to grant him some time to regain his composure before the seven time IWGP Heavyweight Champion grounds AJ with a cross body. AJ rolls to the safety of the outside but Tanahashi halts AJ's attempts to catch his breath delivering the High Fly Flow to the outside. Tanahashi, first to his feet, drags AJ by his hair to the apron- AJ delivers a facelock jawbreaker on the ropes followed up by the springboard inverted ddt-Tanahashi kicks out at 2! AJ attempts a springboard 450- Tanahashi catches him to deliver a bridging german after AJ blocked the dragon suplex for another close fall. Tanahashi continues to work the left leg of AJ with a dragon screw leg whip before accidentally taking down the referee. AJ Styles delivers a vicious low blow greeted by vehement boos before attempting the Styles Clash- wild cheers greet Tanahashi as he manages to wriggle free before delivering a wild low blow of his own as both men fall to the ground. Tanahashi and Styles trade closed fist blows as they clamber to their feet-AJ lands a strike that sends Tanahashi cashing to his knees but Tanahashi strikes the left leg of AJ, who goes crumbling to the mat too.

Motivated by the desire to headline the biggest show of NJPW's calendar, Tanahashi and Styles return to their feet again-AJ lands several kicks to the hamstring of Tanahashi before locking in the Calf Killer in the centre of the ring! Tanahashi desperately claws at the mat in a futile attempt to reach the ropes- AJ has it locked in tight on the injured left leg of Tanahashi, who pulls at the shirt of the referee whilst writhing in pain. Eventually, Tanahashi reaches the ropes as AJ takes his frustrations out on the ref. AJ delivers an enziguri before attempting the Bloody Sunday brainbuster- reversed by Tanahashi who delivers a corkscrew neck breaker of his own. Attempted Swingblade by Tanahashi reversed by AJ into an implant buster- another kick out at 2. AJ follows it up with a springboard superman punch before looking for the Styles Clash-reversed by Tanahashi who successfully lands the Swingblade this time. Tanahashi lifts AJ, looking for the Styles Clash- AJ reverses into the ankle lock on the injured left leg of Tanahashi before Tanahashi summons what little leg strength he has left to send AJ head first into the turnbuckle!! Tanahashi looks for the Styles Clash again- this time he is successful!!..1...2... AJ is saved the embarrassment of being defeated by his own finisher with the latest kick out possible!

Tanahashi, meanwhile, heads up top looking for the High Fly Flow but is thwarted by the raised knees of Styles, who heads to the top himself and connects with the High Fly Flow!...1....2... Tanahashi kicks out! AJ, incredulous, returns to his own move set this time successfully connecting with the Bloody Sunday brainbuster before pointing the gun at Tanahashi, signalling his intentions. AJ lifts Tanahashi for the Styles Clash but Tanahashi reverses with a dragon screw leg whip followed by consecutive shots to the hamstring of the injured left leg of AJ. A second dragon screw leg whip grounds AJ temporarily as Tanahashi heads to the top rope- Tanahashi connects with the High Fly Flow on a standing AJ. The audience in attendance sense this one could be nearly over as Tanahashi heads up to the top again- this time Tanahashi connects with the High Fly Flow on a grounded AJ Styles to pick up the victory and advance to the G1 finals where he will meet either Okada, Nakmura, Goto or Karl Anderson. Both men lay broken in the ring before AJ bows his head to Tanahashi before taking his exit. Tanahashi, ice on the injured neck, proceeds to deliver a more subdued air guitar session than usual.

This was a legitimate five star classic and my favourite contest between these two in ring generals. Arguably, this was the best match of the tournament thus far between the two major players in Block A. Over to you, Okada and Nakamura.

Chris Hero vs Tommy End

Tommy End has been on a roll as of late; in tag team action, with the Sumerian Death Squad, End has featured in fantastic matches against the N.A.K and The Hunter Brothers. In singles action, Tommy End has featured in fantastic, hard hitting matches against the likes of Drew Galloway, Roderick Strong and Chris Hero, the man he faced for a third time at Southside Wrestling on the 8th August. Chris Hero, too, is putting on some of the best matches of his career against the likes of Zack Sabre Jr., Drew Gulak, Brian Cage, Roderick Strong and Tommy End- and that is just PWG matches.

After meeting twice in the past couple of months at PWG and wXw, Tommy End faces Chris Hero at Southside Wrestling, both tied at one victory a piece, in the rubber match of the series. Twice before these men have met and twice before these two men have delivered two of the most hard hitting matches you will ever likely see. At Menace II Society V in Nottingham, Hero and the Anti Hero met for the third time in an international dream match that did not disappoint and delivered in every way imaginable.

As the match begins, Hero and the Anti Hero jockey for position, exchanging submission holds before Hero attempts to dislodge Tommy End, who stands precariously positioned on the ring apron. Hero delivers a huge boot, followed by an even bigger one but End wont shift. Hero takes a run up but still can't dislodge End. Hero goes to the outside and pulls End's legs from underneath him sending his face crashing down on the ring apron. Hero rolls End back in the ring and delivers a running senton- End kicks out at 2. Hero attempts to begin working over the arm of Tommy End- End powers out as Hero and End trade ferocious shots in the centre of the ring, each one greeted by an ooh and a grimace from the crowd. Hero with the elbows, End with the kicks. Hero delivers a devastating elbow turning End's legs into jelly. Hero lifts End- looking for a piledriver- but End rolls through only to walk into a savage spinning forearms smash that sends him straight to the mat.

Hero, after dragging End to his feet, takes the opportunity to talk a little trash to Tommy End, asking the Dutch man how it feels to barely be able to stand up before End shuts him up with a monstrous roundhouse kick as both men fall to the mat. 

Somehow, End manages to throw an arm over Hero as the referee begins the count to three...1....2... Hero grabs the ref's hand to stop him making the three count! Once more, Hero and End exchange fierce shots- End hits an ace crusher but Hero gets straight to his feet and roars in the face of Tommy End. Stunned by Hero's resilience, End is in disbelief as Hero lands the Hero's Welcome- only two.

End manages to get to his feet again and Chris Hero must be wondering what it will take to pin Tommy End again. End delivers a series of stiff kicks to ground Hero before hitting the Crescent Moon Double Stomp from the top rope followed by a shining wizard....1....2... only two again! Tommy End towers over Hero who desperately clutches at the ropes to help him up to his feet. Hero and End trade some more hellacious shots  in the centre- Hero hits a huge spinning elbow sending End to the mat. Hero tucks End's head between his legs, slowly using what little remaining strength he has to deliver a piledriver. That must be it...1...2... another kick out by End!

Hero removes the protection to expose his elbow. Hero looks for that piledriver but End rolls through but keeping hold of Hero's waist to deliver a thunderous german suplex. End, perched on the top rope, looks for the Crescent Moon Double Stomp- Hero moves out of the way just in time. For the final time, End and Hero trade shots in the centre of the ring- End with kicks, Hero with elbows. Hero lifts End looking for the piedriver again but End somehow rolls through whilst driving Hero into the mat to roll Hero up for the three count. Every single person in Rushcliffe Leisure Centre stood to their feet to applaud the piece of history just witnessed. Hero interrupts the chants of "that was awesome" to state how proud he is to have been a part of this match and how proud he is of what Tommy End has become before leaving the with the parting shot that if the two meet during PWG Battle of Los Angles, he is going to kick End's ass.

Words can not do justice to how good this match was. Just buy the DVD. The price is worth it for this match alone.

ICW: I'm A Lumberjack Match (And I'm OK) Report and Review

ICW kicked of their run at the Edinburgh Fringe festival on the 2nd August with I'm A Lumberjack Match (And I'm Okay) featuring the in ring returns of Davey Boy, Lou King Sharpe and Martin Kirby along side a devastating battle for supremacy between the N.A.K and Sumerian Death Squad. General Manager, Red Lightning, continued to run roughshod over ICW with the help of the 55 to ensure his vision for Fear and Loathing VIII remains in tact despite the best protestations of many members of the roster. In a typically entertaining show that marked the beginning to what will be an exciting four show run at the Edinburgh Fringe, ICW only whet the appetite of fans who can expect the return of ICW World Heavyweight Champion, Drew Galloway, ICW Tag Team Champions, Polo Promotions and the return of IRN JEW, American indie icon Colt Cabana and Grado, over the coming weeks.

Saqib Ali vs Davey Boy

Accompanied by his new manager Toal, Saqib Ali makes his way to the ring still yet to taste victory in an ICW ring. Tonight, Saqib Ali faces a man walking to the ring by himself after his Bucky Boy brethren, Stevie Boy, turned his back on the Bucky Boys a couple of months ago before joining the N.A.K. The Buckfast Barbarian, Davey Boy, arrives to the ring meaning business. Davey Boy, seemingly jettisoning his happy go lucky attitude of the Bucky Boys, gets things under way with two huge lariats followed by a snap suplex. Ali rolls to the outside closely followed by Davey Boy as the two men brawl around the ring. Ali gains the momentum after tossing Davey Boy into the steel steps, now back in the ring Ali stomps a mudhole in Davey Boy in the corner.

Ali heaps up to the top rope but Davey Boy delivers a dropkick sending Ali off balance. Davey Boy looks for the superplex but Ali manages to block the attempt before pushing Davey Boy to the mat. Toal hands Saqib Ali the magic carpet as he looks to channel his inner Aladdin- attempted double foot stomp assisted by the magic carpet misses Davey Boy, who rolls out of the way before delivering a spear to Ali. After dragging Ali to his feet, Davey Boy debuts a new F5- Stunner combination to pick up the victory.

After the match, Davey Boy pulls a piece of paper from his shorts to reveal a hit list with all the names of the N.A.K written on it. Chris Renfrew, Davey Boy states, I'm coming for you first.

Winner: Davey Boy

Kid Fite vs Joe Coffey

ICW's Ironman, Joe Coffey, once again is confronted by a faction he has had many previous runnings with. Just a week before I'm A Lumberjack (And I'm Okay) Joe Coffey defeated Sha Samuels of the 55 to maintain his impressive form after suffering a loss in the biggest match of his career against Drew Galloway at Barramania. As ever, Kid Fite arrives and he is not alone. The mastermind, James R Kennedy, and the muscle, Tim Wylie, of the 55 accompany Kid Fite to the ring.

The King of the Urban Jungle, Joe Coffey, begins the match with an arm drag take down before beginning work on Kid Fite's arm. A drop kick by Coffey grounds Kid Fite after he escaped from an arm lock- set on inflicting as much punishment as possible, Joe Coffey locks in the no mercy boston crab before James R Kennedy pulls Kid Fite to the safety of the ropes. Joe Coffey chases Kennedy around the ring but walks into a big clothesline from the 55's enforcer, Tim Wylie. Wylie rolls ICW's Ironman back in the ring as Kid Fite now has the advantage. Wylie strangles Joe Coffey with the second rope whilst Kid Fite distracts the referee- Kid Fite drives home his advantage with a snap suplex for a two count. Coffey, getting to his feet, lands a few forearms to successfully ground Kid fite- Coffey gives Fite the receipt for the head-butt  to the groin before Tim Wylie enters the ring, Coffey pulls the legs from underneath the 55's enforcer before picking him up to send him swinging into James R Kennedy, taking him out in the process.

Coffey sends Wylie and Kid Fite into the corner followed by two hog busters-Kite Fite wildly runs towards Coffey who delivers a powerslam. Fite taking advantage of a James R Kennedy distraction, sends Coffey to the outside before hitting a ddt in the centre of the ring. An attempted discuss lariat is ducked under by Kid Fite before lifting Joe Coffey to deliver the DOA brain buster but it barely makes an impression on ICW's Ironman, who delivers a german suplex as soon as he returns to his feet. Kid Fite and Joe Coffey trade blows in the centre of the ring before Coffey finally connects with a devastating discuss lariat to pick up the victory.

After suffering a loss in his biggest match of his career at Barramania, Joe Coffey has now won five in a row as he builds momentum towards his showdown with Rhyno.

Winner: Joe Coffey

Stevie Boy vs Lou King Sharpe

In the first appearance of any N.A.K members in the night, it was Stevie Boy to arrive first to address an issue that has been bugging him; despite being on the poster and merchandise for the Waynestock weekend he did not feature on either card. His anger has been further exacerbated by Grado's absence tonight as he was scheduled to face him. Whilst Stevie Boy's attention is directed at the crowd, Lou King Sharp, after being suspended by Red Lightning, appears on the top rope behind Stevie Boy. As Stevie Boy turns around he walks into a diving cross body sending him crashing to the mat.

Red Lightning makes his way out to the top of the stage. Red Lighting reminds fans that he fired Lou King Sharp for "being a dick" before changing his mind and allowing the match to take place. Stevie Boy takes advantage of the distraction to deliver a cheap shot from behind as Lou King Sharp rolls to the outside. Stevie Boy follows, driving the back of Lou King Sharp into the ring post. Stevie Boy rolls the flaccid body of Lou King Sharp back into the ring- Sharp gets to his feet before rebounding of the ropes only to be planted by a huge spinebuster followed by a snap suplex. Stevie Boy, firmly in control, begins the mechanical dismantling of Lou King Shape, working over the arm before psyching out the crowd- Stevie Boy decides he doesn't want to do his standing shooting star press just yet, instead he flips off the crowd. Again, Stevie Boy's preoccupation with irritating the crowd grants Lou King Sharp ample time to get to his feet. Sharp begins hulking up before delivering a spear into the corner followed by a lariat and two drop kicks- only 2.

Lou King Sharp heads up to the top rope looking to hit some of his famed aerial offence but Steve Boy returns to attempt to pull Sharp down from the rope- Sharp manages to send Stevie Boy face first into the mat before delivering a canadian destroyer variation from the top rope for another close pinfall attempt. Stevie Boy scrambles away and places himself in between the ropes before Lou King Sharp hits the 0141 (619) but the blow must have re-energised Stevie Boy as before Sharp has any chance to mount any more offence, Stevie Boy delivers a huge superkick followed by a ddt. Finally, Stevie Boy delivers a beautiful shooting star press- Sharp kicks out at 2. Revitalised by the support of the crowd, Sharp connects with a head scissor take down and holds on to make the pin attempt-only two once again. Stevie Boy, back to his feet, connects with an elbow before attempting the Glasgow Destroyer, reversed by Sharp- Stevie Boy connects with a low blow which is greeted by a chorus of boos. Stevie Boy lifts Sharp to his feet before delivering the very same F5 Stunner combination to pick up the victory in a very entertaining match and send a message to Davey Boy.

Winner: Stevie Boy

The lights go out- it's Mikey Whiplash, back from the dead! Just one week removed from a brutal affair with BT Gunn, Whiplash is back and he takes out Stevie Boy, sending him to the outside.

Wolfgang vs Mikey Whiplash

Mikey Whiplash's intensely personal battle with the N.A.K continues as this time he finds himself confronted with the unenviable task of having to overcome ICW's big game hunter, Wolfgang, fresh of a victory against Rhyno at Shug's Hoose Party II. Before the bell has chance to ring, Mikey Whiplash dives to the outside looking to take down Wolfgang, who has half his face painted in the style of Mikey Whiplash, but Wolfgang catches Whiplash before dropping him face first on the apron. Wolfgang and Whiplash brawl around the ring before Wolfgang drives Whilpash's head into the steel steps before rolling him back into the ring as the match officially starts.

Wolfgang immediately tosses Whiplash back to the outside before illustrating that the N.A.K are not about pandering to the crowd as Wolfgang decides against delivering his running swanton to the outside. Wolfgang's momentary engagement with the crowd allows Whiplash to regain his composure as he returns to the ring, Wolfgang sees this and attempts a powerbomb but Whiplash rolls through for a close fall- as soon as Whiplash returns to his feet Wolfgang pounces on him delivering stiff uppercuts that send him to the corner. Wolfgang, well in control of this match, holds up the N.A.K sign to the crowd before dropping elbows to the exposed midriff of Mikey Whiplash.

Wolfgang heads to the unfamiliar territory of the top rope but spends too much time talking trash to the crowd allowing Whipash ample time to return to his feet, land a few blows and deliver a superplex from the top rope. Wolfgang, wisely, rolls to the outside but Mikey Whiplash follows him and takes him down with three consecutive virgin suicide dives. Whiplash rolls Wolfgang back in the ring before rebounding off the ropes- Wolfgang hits the pop up powerbomb before locking in a submission hold in the centre of the ring. Whiplash desperately claws himself towards the ropes but Wolfgang pulls him back into the centre of the ring. Wolfgang, after having Whiplash in the hold for a considerable length of time, determines that Whiplash isn't going to tap so releases the hold. Wolfgang heads over to his jacket draped over the ring post  and pulls out a pair of brass knuckles, the same brass knuckles he used to defeat Rhyno just last week. Whiplash takes advantage of Wolfgang's turned back, lifting him up for the Zombie Maker but Wolfgang reverses and in the process momentarily incapacitates the referee. Wolfgang takes advantage by delivering a low blow to Whiplash before connecting with the brass knuckles to pick up the three count thus ensuring the N.A.K.'s dominance over Mikey Whiplash continues.

Winner: Wolfgang

Sha Samuels vs Joe Hendry

The East End Butcher, Sha Samuels, makes his way to the ring first flanked on either side by James R Kennedy and Tim Wylie. Next to the ring, a man with one of the best entrances in professional wrestling worldwide today, Joe Hendry. "I can feel Joe Hendry in the air" replaces the iconic lyrics of Phil Collins' 1981 hit "In The Air tonight" as the local hero returns to his home town of Edinburgh. Hendry asks for his music to be cut before explaining Sha Samuels has been busy working on a film and he is in possession of the trailer. An eruption of laughter echoed around the Cyanide Club as Joe Hendry demonstrated why he has one of the brightest futures in wrestling by once more combining his fierce satire with the traditional wrestling promo.

The fans chant "Mug" at Sha Samuels, visibly agitated by Hendry's lampoon, gets things started with a knee to the gut before Hendry reverses followed by a jumping knee. Hendry hoists Samuels in the air as the fans count to ten before Samuels is sent crashing to the mat by a vertical suplex. James R Kennedy provides a distraction allowing Samuels to dump Hendry over the top to the outside- Tim Wylie begins the beatdown before rolling Hendry back to the inside. The audience in attendance ensure Sha Samuels is aware he is "just a shit Danny Dyer"- a scathing criticism considering Danny Dyer's limited acting ability. The crowd have succeeding in getting in the head of Samuels, who looks for the Plunge in the Thames but is reversed as Hendry delivers the Freak of Nature fall away slam. Hendry looks to end things with a Trip Around the World but Samuels manages to wriggle free. Tim Wylie causes a distraction allows Sha Samuels to roll up Hendry from behind with a hand full of tights and assistance from the ropes to pick up the victory.

Sha Samuels decides he has not done with the local hero, stomping on him in the centre of the ring before DCT, the newly wed, rushes down the ramp, polo mallet in hand, to chase of the East End Butcher and make the save.

Winner: Sha Samuels

Sumerian Death Squad vs the N.A.K

In one of the most anticipated match ups of the night, the N.A.K's BT Gunn and Chris Renrew teamed up to take on Sumerian Death Squad, comprised of Michael Dante and Tommy End, both of whom have been on a serious roll as of late. Both teams have held tag team gold in ICW before and they meet up here to determine who will face Polo Promotions at ICW: Now for Something Completely Different on August 9th.

As both teams square off in the ring, a brawl immediately ensues. Renfrew and Tommy End take the action to the outside first before they are followed by BT Gunn and Michael Dante as the two teams brawl through the crowd. BT Gunn and Tommy End head upstairs trading blows each step of the way. A vicious roundhouse kick delivered by End ensures BT Gunn wont be involved in the action for a while as the Occult Hitman makes his way down the stairs. Chirs Renfrew, on the receiving end of a two on one beat down for a change, is saved by a BT Gunn diving from a near 20ft balcony to take out both Dante and End. Renfrew and Gunn drag End and Dante back through the crowd before rolling them back into the ring. A series of double team manoeuvres, culminating in a double super kick to End, by the N.A.K. allow them to gain the advantage as quick tags allow both members of the N.A.K to stay fresh. Tommy End's powerful strikes grant him some room to make a tag to Michael Dante, who delivers a devastating lariat followed by a face buster to take out both members of the N.A.K. A pouncing dropkick delivered to Michael Dante by Chris Renfrew allows the N.A.K to regain control.

Renfrew, with the assistance of BT Gunn, looks to end the match by delivering a T Virus piledriver to Tommy End...1...2... Michael Dante breaks up the count to keep the match alive. Stiff strikes from Dante allow him to execute a suplex followed by the Assassination, assisted by Tommy End...1...2... this time the pin attempt is broken up by BT Gunn. Tommy End and BT Gunn square off in the centre of the ring, BT Gunn delivers chops whilst End delivers his famous kicks. Dante delivers a venomous spear to Renfrew sending him reeling to the outside. Sumerian Death Squad deliver the Assassination again- but this time to BT Gunn...1...2... kick out by Gunn at the last possible second. Sumerian Death Squad, done playing around, deliver the Highman's Block Buster to Gunn to pick up the three count and crown themselves number one contenders to Polo Promotion's ICW Tag Team Championships.

Embarrassed by the first N.A.K defeat in a while, ICW's big game hunter, Wolfgang, rushes down to blind side both members of the Sumerian Death Squad. Mikey Whiplash comes sprinting down the ramp, kendo stick in hand, to help his fellow members of Legion. Whiplash swings wildly with the kendo stick ensuring every under handed tactic used, every multi man beat down, every distraction felt by Whiplash over the past few months is felt by Wolfgang too. Sumerian Death Squad find some duct tape and tie Renfrew and Gunn to the ropes. Tommy End informs the crowd BT Gunn's punishment is five strikes delivered by the kendo stick. Legion, composed of Whiplash, End and Dante, inflict retribution on the N.A.K for a the punishment they have delivered to Whiplash. Legion exit the ring united having made a huge statement  after asserting their dominance as the dominant faction in ICW.

How will the N.A.K respond? If history teaches us anything violent repercussions are heading towards each and every member of Legion.

Winner: Sumerian Death Squad

Noam Dar vs Martin Kirby

Out first, from a champagne supernova in the sky, Noam Dar makes his way to the ring to one of the biggestt ovations of the night for one of the best young wrestlers in the world. Tonight, the Jew-di master faces Martin Kirby, making his return to ICW after a couple of months absence. Accompanied by fellow members of the 55, Kirby asks Tim Wylie and James R Kennedy to leave such is his level of confidence. As the fans chant "no one likes you" at Kirby, Dar grabs a mic to remark on the irony of a baldy appearing at the fringe festival before stating the reason for Grado's absence is because of the 55. Dar proceeds to offer Kirby a challenge; if he is victorious over Kirby, the 55 must eave ICW. Much to the surprise of the fans in attendance, Kirby accepts Dar's offer.

Kirby gains the initial advantage after taking advantage of Tim Wylie's distraction, who has decided to stay ringside for this contest, with a neck breaker. Kirby rolls Dar to the outside as Wylie grabs Dar in a half nelson hold- Kirby swings a wild kick but Dar ducks out of the way and Kirby, instead, connects with Wylie. Kid Fite comes storming out as Noam Dar locks Kirby in the Champagne Super-Knee Bar in the centre of the ring before Tim Wylie, after recovering from the kick to the face, enters the ring to break the hold. Dar flies to the outside to sucessfully take down all members of the 55 before re-applying the Champagne Super-Knee Bar to Martin Kirby who taps in the centre of the ring! The 55 are disbanded!

Winner: Noam Dar

Members of the 55 swarm around Martin Kirby as Noam Dar celebrates in the crowd. Red Lighting's music hits as the fans make it perfectly clear how they feel about him. Red Lightning lambasts Dar, informing him that it is he that makes decisions around here and he has decided that the 55 are alive and well. Dar protests the decisions from the safety of the crowd but Red Lightning reverses the decision before claiming the real winner of the match is Martin Kirby.

Ferocious boos greet the General Manager's decision as the crowd chant "you tapped out" at Kirby. Red Lightning begins to explain that everyone knows, even if they are not willing to admit it, that if ICW are going to continue expanding they must have Drew Galloway as champion in order to do so. Red Lightning informs the fans they will not be seeing Galloway tonight as he has been given the night off. After a ringing endorsement by Red Lightning, Jack Jester makes his way to the ring to chants of "you sold out" after he shocked the wrestling world at Shug's Hoose Party II. Jester explains he did sell out.. Barrowlands, The Picturehouse and he is going to sell out the SECC. Jester, too, states the importance of Drew Galloway as the face of ICW. Red Lightning asks Damo to come out as he has a lumberjack match with Jack Jester. Red Lightning asks the 55 to lumberjack essentially turning the match into a six on one handicap match.

Jack Jester vs Damo- Lumberjack Match

A beautiful drop kick by the 300 pound plus Irish man pings Jester straight into the turnbuckle before Jester flees to the safety of the outside.The 55 provide the distraction as Jester attacks Damo from behind, kicking him to the outside for the 55 to deliver the beat down. After rolling him back to the ring, Jack Jester's shots make no impact on the Damo, who picks up Jester to deliver a powerslam in the centre of the ring. This time the 55 enter the ring to deliver the beat down but a devastating lariat delivered to Tim Wylie makes the members of the 55 think twice about getting in the ring with Damo as they flee to the outside. James R Kennedy tosses a steel chair to Jester allowing him to take advantage of Damo's preoccupation with the 55 with a couple of vicious blows to the back. Jester summons the 55 into the ring to take advantage to the sound of vociferous boos of those in attendance. After watching the 55 deliver the beat down, Jack Jester pulls the broken body of Damo to his feet before delivering a Future Shock ddt to the steel chair, an homage to the ICW World Heavyweight Champion, Drew Galloway, to pick up the victory.

Winner: Jack Jester

Jester swiftly exits through the crowd before the 55 enter the ring under the orders of Red Lightning to further humiliate Damo. Cheers echo around the building as Joe Hendry, Noam Dar, DCT and Joe Coffey come running out to make the save and stop the beat down sending the 55 fleeing with their collective tail between their legs. Angered and frustrated by Henry, Dar, DCT and Coffey's involvement, Red Lightning informs them that this is a disciplinary matter that will be dealt with next week before closing the show upon his demand.