Tag: nwa results

NWA Power results: By Any Means Necessary, part one

Posted on by Josiah MacDonald

This week’s episode of NWA Power featured the first part of a special show they recently taped in Kentucky called By Any Means Necessary, and thus was longer than the usual episode.

Jax Dane opened the show with Kyle Davis as they announced a cage match between him and Crimson to settle their differences after they broke up as a tag team. Dane promised to destroy him, and blamed Crimson for everything that led to their break up.

The Pope came down to the ring for an interview with Joe Galli. Pope took the mic and hyped the crowd up for the show, but was cut off by Colby Corino, who came to ringside with The Fixers (Jay Bradley & Wrecking Ball Legursky). Pope said that he was going to give Corino the whipping that his father Steve Corino should have given him.

Velvet Sky claimed that she had a shouting match with Austin Idol about store bought Rice Crispy Treats vs. homemade ones, and I found this amusing.

Pope defeated Colby Corino

The crowd was on fire for this match, and having a big audience makes a huge difference for these NWA shows. The crowd turned a decent opening match into a really fun one to watch, as they were with the wrestlers the entire way.

As the match started, Velvet Sky gave us a bit of background on Wrecking Ball Legursky, telling us he was trained by Matt Taven & Bully Ray. Pope beat Corino all around the ring in the opening moments, hitting punches, an inverted atomic drop, and a fist drop. Pope lit Corino up with chops in the corner, which made the crowd roar with approval.

Pope went for a Bionic Elbow, but Corino poked Pope in the eyes and then went for a double stomp, but he missed. Pope rolled Corino up, but was soon locked in a crossface, but Pope escaped and then ate a superkick. Pope managed to get to his feet and hit some forearms, including a flying one off the ropes.

Pope blocked an eye poke and then hit a big flying crossbody on Corino for a two-count. Pope hit a neckbreaker and then called for the Elijah Express. The Fixers got involved to distract the referee and Corino took advantage and hit the Corino Crash for a two-count. The Ill Begotten (Captain Yuma & Russ Freeman) came out to yell at Corino for cheating, and Pope countered an abdominal stretch into a cradle for a pinfall victory.

The Fixers got into the ring and challenged The Ill Begotten to an impromptu tag match.

The Fixers defeated The Ill Begotten

Good squash here to get The Fixers over as monsters.

Russ Freeman ate a cannonball in the corner from Legursky, and then they double teamed Yuma, with Legursky hitting a powerslam. The Fixers beat on Yuma for a bit, dominating the smaller man. Yuma managed to crawl to his corner and tag in Freeman after dodging a big boot.

Freeman tried to take it to both men at the same time, but paid for it when he went for a belly-to-belly on Bradley. Legursky no sold a jawbreaker and then The Fixers hit a tag team powerbomb/back suplex on Yuma and a double brainbuster on Freeman for the pinfall.

The Fixers grabbed a mic and said that they were in the NWA to take payment from the highest bidder and that they were going to take on anyone in their way. As they were talking, Matt Taven & Mike Bennett (The OGK) came out to challenge them! A second impromptu match began between The Fixers and the Kingdom.

The OGK (Matt Taven & Mike Bennett) defeated The Fixers

This match was awesome. Taven and Bennett were fantastic here, and the Fixers were the right guys to keep the heat on them. I normally don’t like a lot of impromptu matches, but the way this was executed with The Fixers destroying The Ill Begotten really helped with this match. This was great.

Taven and Bennet ran down to the ring and immediately started fighting with the bigger men, but it wasn’t long before The Fixers had isolated Taven. Taven dodged a corner strike after Galli shouted out Ring of Honor, AEW, and Impact as partners with the NWA, which always makes me smile.

Taven hit a dropkick on Legursky and then hit a suicide dive on the other side of the ring taking out Bradley. Taven then hit a huge dive over the top rope to the floor on Legursky. Taven went to the top rope but was shoved off into Legursky who stood there like a wall, and Taven crashed to the mat.

The Fixers beat on Taven, getting the heat on him with some big man offence. Legursky chopped Taven at ringside as Sky and Austin Idol bickered on commentary to the point of annoyance. When both of them focus on the match, it is far better. Taven tried a sunset flip, but Legursky stopped it but missed a dropkick. Taven hit a PK and then tagged in Bennett, who ran wild.

Bennett went for a rolling elbow, but Legursky blocked it and went for a chokeslam. Bennett countered and hit a dropkick to the knee. Taven and Bennett superkicked Bradley and sent him to the floor before hitting a double superkick Legursky, but he no sold it and hit a double clothesline on both men. Bennett hit a big spear, and then Taven hit a frog splash for the pinfall on Legursky.

The Sinister Minster was with Judias, and he addressed Sal Rinauro challenging him for his shot at the NWA National Championship. He told Rinauro that he would grant him the match, but if he lost, he would have to give up challenging for the NWA National title for 18 months (6+6+6).

Judias (with The Sinister Minister) defeated Sal Rinauro (with Danny Deals)

This is the best Judias has looked since he started in the NWA, with Rinauro bumping around like crazy to make him look good. Rinauro sold like crazy here, and while Judias isn’t that good, he at least looked good in this match.

Judias threw Rinauro across the ring and then hit some ugly looking punches in the corner. Rinauro went for a crossbody on Judias, but Judias caught him and hit a fall away slam. Judias did the Garvin stomps on Rinauro before hitting an elbow drop for a 2-count.

Judias continued his beating on Rinauro, but he kept kicking out. Rinauro dodged a corner charge and hit a handspring stunner, a superkick, and a flying clothesline on Judias for a two-count. Rinauro missed a second flying clothesline and ate a back suplex bomb. Judias then hit a Crucifix Bomb for the win.

The Hex (Marti Belle & Allysin Kay) defeated Tootie Lynn & Thunder Kitty to retain the NWA World Women’s Tag Team Championship

This was fine. Marti Belle did spend most of the match selling, but mistimed the finish slightly, falling a bit too late as Kay wheelbarrowed Thunder Kitty. I’m glad that they seem to be learning that Belle is best selling though, which improved this greatly.

Lynn started the match with Kay, with Kay hitting a side walk slam on Lynn and immediately isolating her from her corner. Thunder Kitty made the tag by slapping Lynn in the back of the head. Kitty used some cheating tactics, which Lynn was not happy about, yelling that she did whatever she wanted at her own partner.

Belle dodged a corner charge and rolled Kitty up, but Kitty rolled through and hit a punch. Kitty yelled at Lynn more as Lynn tagged in, and Sky informed us that she sensed tension between the two. You know, I think she might be right. Kay tagged in and hit a huge pump kick on Kitty, but Lynn made the save when The Hex went for Hex Marks the Spot. Belle kicked Lynn and then hit the Hexlaimation Point on Kitty for the pinfall.

Marti Belle and Allysin Kay claimed they were going to take the tag titles anywhere and defend against all challengers, so it’s possible we might see them showing up in some other promotions soon.

A hype video aired for Cyon and Tyrus over the NWA Television Championship. This was a well done video, summarizing their feud, and announcing their match on December 4th at NWA Hard Times II

Cyon defeated Mims

Holy cow, this was a good match. There was very little in terms of spectacular moves, but everything was paced well, and it drew the fans into what was happening very well. The NWA has something in Mims, and I hope they see it, because he was awesome in this one. Cyon held his own too. I didn’t expect to be into this as much as I was, but it was excellent.

Cyon must have been working out hard lately, as he was quite cut here compared to some of his other appearances. Mims and Cyon had a good back and forth early on, and I really liked how Cyon sold some headbutts from Mims. He tried to not sell it, but couldn’t after a few.

Mims hit a back suplex on the apron on Cyon, but Cyon was able to reverse an Irish whip at ringside and sent Mims crashing into the stairs. Cyon slammed Mims in the ring and hit a series of elbows to the chest. Cyon hit a back elbow that sent Mims to the mat.

Cyon took Mims over with a back drop that was almost like a Northern Lights suplex. The bickering between Sky and Idol really hurt this match, as they argued about Billy Corgan firing Idol. Poor Joe Galli tried to keep them on track, trying to focus on the match, but they just kept going.

Cyon hit a back suplex on Mims, but Mims rolled towards the ropes before a pin could be attempted. Cyon locked on some sort of arm submission, triangling the arm with his legs. Mims lifted Cyon right off the mat and powerbombed him, which the crowd popped huge for.

Mims nailed Cyon with a clothesline that sent him flipping backwards. Mims hit a Big Strong Slam on Cyon, but he got his foot on the ropes. Mims climbed to the top rope, but Cyon cut him off and hit a superplex for a 2-count. Cyon went back with the North/South elbows to the chest of Mims.

Cyon hit a Death Valley Driver on Mims, but he kicked out at two. As both men stood up, Mims rocked Cyon with a headbutt and went for a brainbuster, but Cyon grabbed the tope rope to block it, hit a twisting neckbreaker, and then locked on the Mask of Pain in the middle of the ring on Mims.

Mims fired up and tried to make the ropes, but Cyon stomped on the free hand with his foot and Mims ended up passing out in the hold.

Final Thoughts:

This was an excellent edition of NWA Power. If they could make more shows like this while maintaining quality promos, the show would be outstanding every week. The hot crowd really helped, and while this was a longer edition of the show, it was a very easy watch. I am really looking forward to part two of By Any Means Necessary, especially if we continue to get in ring action like this.

NWA The Circle Squared results and video: Series premiere

Posted on by Ethan Renner

Video —

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qq3voqP_YLA

Report —

A new show, NWA The Circle Squared, aired in the usual NWA Power slot this week. 

The concept of the show is to have unsigned talent cut promos, then wrestle a match. Fans will then have the chance to vote on who should get signed to an NWA contract. 

**********

The episode opened with a commercial for next week’s Power, featuring a Thunder Rosa vs. Melina title match. 

William Patrick Corgan introduced the concept of this week’s The Circle Squared show. Talent will get the opportunity to cut a promo and wrestle a match. Fans can then vote on who they get to see join the roster. 

**********

Sean Mooney let us know that Power returns next week in its normal time slot. The show’s intro music played, spliced together with reaction shots from various viewers, including Blue Meanie. The sound mixing was off. 

Mooney invited fans to record their own watch-alongs and hashtag them with #TheCircleSquared, then threw to Kyle Davis in the wrestling studio. 

**********

Davis informed us that the competitors tonight don’t have to win their match, just win over the fans. Davis called out the first competitors, PJ Hawx and Luke Hawx, a son and father duo. 

PJ introduced his dad. Luke said that they’re the Hawx Aerie, the only father and son duo in wrestling, and they’re the ABCs and the XYZs of wrestling, meaning they start and finish things. PJ is the guy who did that jump off a balcony in a mall that went viral this month.  

Various viewers were shown chiming in on the Hawx duo. I could do without this aspect of the presentation. 

Nikita Koloff entered. He looks great. 

Koloff put over his history. He said NWA gave him the chance to coach somebody, so tonight he’s introducing Jeff Lewis Neal and Tyson Dean, the best kept secret in tag team wrestling. 

Lewis cut a promo. He said with Koloff by their side, they’ll get to the next level. He promised to show us why they’re the best kept secret. 

Again, viewers were shown chiming in on the Hawx duo. This was a mix of fans, podcast hosts, and a media member. 

After a commercial, both teams cut pre-taped, sit-down promos. Koloff joined the commentary team. 

**********

PJ HAWX & LUKE HAWX DEFEATED JEFF LEWIS NEAL & TYSON DEAN

This was a super simple match that went less than three minutes. As far as three minute matches go, it was good. 

Neal and Dean attacked PJ and Luke before the opening bell. PJ ended up the legal man and used a series of quick cradles for near falls. Dean cut him off with a spinebuster. Neal hit a knee drop for a two count. 

Neal and Dean used a Hart Attack for a near fall. PJ came back with a vertical suplex to Neal, then made a hot tag to Luke. Luke ran wild with simple strikes and a back body drop. He then used an assisted pop-up powerslam for the pin. 

Father and son celebrated in the ring. More fan watch-along footage was shown. 

**********

Sean Mooney announced The Crockett Cup show for April 19 at The Gateway Center in College Park, Georgia. 

That was it. That was the entire show. Not a bad concept, but nothing here worth going out of your way to see. 

NWA Hard Times live results: TV title tournament, Aldis vs. Gordon

Posted on by Antonio Garza

A new NWA Television Champion will be crowned as Hard Times takes place at GPB Studios in Atlanta tonight.

The pay-per-view will feature the first round, semifinals, and finals of the TV title tournament. The opening round matches on the left side of the bracket are Tim Storm vs. Ken Anderson and Ricky Starks vs. Matt Cross. The right side of the bracket has Dan Maff vs. Zicky Dice and Trevor Murdoch vs. The Question Mark.

The feud between NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion Nick Aldis and Villain Enterprises will continue with Aldis facing ROH’s Flip Gordon in a non-title inter-promotional match tonight. Marty Scurll is also set to appear.

NWA Women’s World Champion Allysin Kay defends her title against Thunder Rosa, NWA National Champion Aron Stevens defends against Scott Steiner, and NWA Tag Team Champions The Rock ‘n’ Roll Express (Ricky Morton & Robert Gibson) put their titles on the line against The Wild Cards (Thomas Latimer & Royce Isaacs) and Eli Drake & James Storm.

Our live coverage begins at 7 p.m. Eastern time.

**********

We’re on! Joe Galli and Stu Bennett doing commentary, they run down the card for tonight. 

We are told that the judges for the tournamnet are Stu Bennet, Billy Corgan, and the ref in the ring.

Trevor Murdoch defeated ?The Question Mark? in a NWA TV Championship tournament first round match

Murdoch started strong with some dropkicks, but Mark quickly cut him off, sent him out with a kick from the ropes. They brawled outside the ring, but Murdoch accidentally clotheslined the ringpost and gave Mark the opening to work him over with Karate Palm Thrusts. Big backdrop from Mark, followed by a Karate Chop and a suplex for a two count. 

Murdoch made a small comeback with strikes and landed the top rope bulldog, but the Question Mark no sold it. Murdoch hit a second and picked up the win. Arguably an upset. 

Dan Maff defeated Zicky Dice in a NWA TV Championship tournament first round match

Match started with Dice playing around, but Maff quickly took him down with a shoulder tackle and a corner squash, followed by a handful of chops and forearms. Dice managed to dodge and get some chops in the corner, followed by a bulldog, but Maff kicked out at 1. Dice went for the stomps and the elbow drop, earning another 1 count. 

Dice went for a backdrop, but Maff coutnered. Dice got him with his knees on the back. Went for the Shake, Rattle, and Roll, but Maff countered. Dice went for the second rope hit, but Maff speared him mid-air, big senton, and Maff picks up the win. Dice was my favorite for that side of the brackets, but Maff is a beast, he can’t be denied. 

Ricky Starks defeated Matt Cross in a NWA TV Championship tournament first round match

Collar and elbow to start the match and quickly into the shoulder tackles and the quick sequence or coutners and show-offs. Cross sends Starks outside, fakes out a dropkick and hits the second. Cross drops an elbow from the ringpost to the floor. 

Back in the ring, Starks got the upper hand on Cross, strikes in the corner and neckbreaker for a two count. Starks goes for the Buster Keaton, but Cross escapes, hits some Lariats, Back elbow and Springboard Plancha for a two count. Cross hits a double stomp for another two count. Cross hits a counter and follows with Death From Above, but Starks moves out of the way. Starks hits the Stroke and gets the win. 6 minutes is not enough for these guys. 

Dave Marquez interviewed Tim Storm. He asks about bypassing his match due to Anderson not being able to compete. Storm said that he was looking forward to the match, but that he would take the by and win the next round. Tonight, he makes Mama Storm proud.

Stu Bennet made the announcement that the next pay-per-view takes place in April. The 2020 Crockett Cup Returns!

Eli Drake & “Cowboy” James Storm defeated NWA World Tag Team Champions RNR Express (Ricky Morton & Robert Gibson) and The Wild Card (Royce Issacs & Tom Latimer) w/Kamille & May Valentine to become the NEW Tag Team Champions

Drake, Morton, and Latimer start the match. Latimer blindsides Morton, but Drake is there to run wild on Latimer and double team him with Morton with the double elbow. Once down, Morton and Drake go for each other with the collar and elbow, but Issacs runs in, only to now get taken out by the work of Storm and Gibson. Storm and Gibson focus on each other, giving Issacs the opening to attack Storm from behind and finally cut the ring in a third on someone, while Gibson has been taken out outside and kept at bay by Kamille.

Wild Card worked on Storm for a bit with quick tags. Issacs got a two count with a Powerslam. Latimer goes for a Piledriver, but Storm blocks and eats about 20 forearms to the back for his troubles, giving Latimer a two count. Gibson is still outside trying to make it back. Storm finally manages a backdrop and tags Drake, but the ref was distracted by Issacs and doesn’t count. 

Gibson finally makes it back to the ring, but a fresh Issacs takes him down, but Storm is there for the desperation Cobrebreaker. Latimer and Drake tag in. Drake hits a Russian Leg Sweep and his People’s Elbow for a two count. Drake chases the Gravy Train, but Issacs is there for the distraction and Latimer delivers a Powerbomb. 

Gibson gets the tag to Morton, who comes in and takes out Latimer. Kamile distracts Gibson while Morton hits the Canadian Destroyer, but it’s not enough. Drake hits the Gravy Train on Morton and picks up the win to become the new tag team champions along with Storm. Good match.

After the match, RNR, Storm, and Drake all embrace in the ring. Drake and Storm head to the podium and talked about fulfilling the promise to get gold. 

We got a recap of Allysin Kay vs Melina, Rosa, and Belle, leading to Kay vs Rosa for the title. 

Thunder Rosa defeated NWA Women’s Champion “AK-47” Allysin Kay to become the NEW NWA Women’s Champion!

This match was soo good, best match up until now and one that will be hard to beat. Rosa came out with full face paint on this time around. Crowd is completely behind her.

They went straight for the Frye/Takayama spot, with Kay having the upper hand, took Rosa down and cornered her with strikes. Early Northenlights Suplex by Kay for a two count. Kay started chopping Rosa from corner to corner. Snapmare into the Sleeper by Kay, but Rosa finally kicked herself out. Kay followed with a cutter for a two count. 

Rosa walked out of the ring to cut off Kay’s momentum, but was brought back in with a Suplex for yet another two count. They started exchanging strikes and Rosa finally got some offense in hitting a dropkick. 

Rosa now in control, worked over Kay with kicks and choking her against the ropes. Rosa stomped on Kay and hit an ugly Snap Suplex, but Kay rolled out before Rosa could pin her. Rosa followed with a Baseball Slide. 

Outside the ring, Rose worked over Kay’s arm against the apron and ringpost. Back in the ring, Rosa kept going after the arm and locked in a Crossface for the submission tease. Kay reversed and locked in a Guillotine, but Rosa was there at the ropes. Rosa went back for the arm. Kay went for the leg submission, but Rosa escaped by attacking the arm. Rosa went for the armbreaker and worked the fingers. 

Kay tried to make a comeback with strikes, but Rosa kicked her way back into control and another Armbreaker. Kay finally got a desperation German and a two count and got herself an opening. Kay went for kicks this time around, but Rosa quickly found the oepning for a German and a two count for herself. 

Rosa went for the top rope, but Kay rolled out of the ring. Rosa follwed with a Rolling Senton, but Kay blocked, caught, and turned it into an Apron-Bomb for a two count. Kay went for the AK-47, but Rosa rolled over for the Yoshi Tonic and Shining Wizard. Rosa went for a Magnum style move and Kay blocked it. Rosa got a huge near fall and followed with an Octopus Hold, but Kay reversed into a Tombstone Piledriver for a 2.99 kickout!

Kay and Rosa battled in the top rope, Rosa hit a huge Dropkick and chased the finish, but Kay blocked. Kay whipped Rosa to the corner and hit the AK-47, but Rosa kicked out again! They exchangeed strikes in the middle of the ring, crowd is going wild! Rosa gets a Guillotine, but Kay pushes her to the corner. Rose hits a top rope Sunset Flip Bomb, but takes took long to cover and only earns a two. 

Kay lands a roundhouse kick, but fails to land the spear, going shoulder first into the turnbuckle, only to get welcomed by Rosa’s Armbreaker again. Kay powers through, but Rosa drops her with the Thunder Driver and wins the championship! Awesome match!

After the match, Melina and Marti Belle came out to celebrate with Thunder Rosa. 

We got a video package of Aldis jumping Villain Enterprises at Ring of Honor, and the consequent challenge to tonight’s Aldis vs Gordon match.

Joe Galli brought out Marti Scurll for an interview. The man is looking dapper as always. Galli asked about supporting Gordon tonight. Scurll said that he wants his shot for the title, but that Aldis keeps running away from him. Scurll said that he’ll keep bugging Aldis until he gets his title shot. He brought up that Aldis is not putting the title on the line against Flip Gordon, and said that the people tonight deseved to get a title defense. 

Aldis walked out to confront Scurll. Aldis got chants of ‘coward’. Aldis said that Scurll had no right to come to his house and throw his weight around. He said that Scurll had no word in the NWA and that ROH was only a hot ticket when he was there headlining. Aldis said that he’ll put the title on the line tonight on the condition that if he retains, the ROH and NWA relationship is now on Aldis’s terms and that Scurll has to leave for tonight. Scurll agrees to the stipulations.

Trevor Murdoch defeated Dan Maff in a NWA TV Championship Tournament Semifinal Match

Big lads wrestling, they go straight for the forarm exchange in the middle of the ring. Stiff chop exchange with Murdoch getting the better of Maff, but the latter hits a Spear out of nowhere and takes down Murdoch. Maff starts going after Murdoch’s upper body with strikes, just taking him down over and over again. 

Murdoch started trying to dodge Maff and finally got the opening to land the Top Rope Bulldog and pick the win. Really one-sided match, Maff didn’t take enough offense for the loss, but the people love Murdoch tonight. He’s my dark horse for tonight.

Ricky Starks defeated Tim Storm in a NWA TV Championship Tournament Semifinal Match

Collar and elbow to start, Storm being bigger and fresher, takes the advantage early on, but Starks has the speed advantage to dodge Storm’s moves. Storm and Starks exchange some Knife-edge chops before Storm lands the ugliest Spinebuster, but enough to start working over Starks. He drops Starks with a Powerslam, but only gets a two count. 

Starks starts a comeback, but Storm hits a huge Blackhole Slam for a two count. Starks only manages to roll out to the ropes, but Storm is there to stop him. Starks hits a kick and piledriver for a two count. Starks out of nowhere lands a Crucifix Pin and snap pins Storm to advance! Another match that needed more than 6 minutes. 

After the match, Storm gave Starks his hand. Starks hugs him instead.

Scott Steiner defeated NWA National Championship Aron Stevens (w/?The Question Mark?) by DQ. Stevens retains the title.

Question Mark is wearing the yellow Bruce Lee suit, he looks ridiculous, but worst is Galli thinking this is a Kill Bill reference. Also, are we sure this is Scott Steiner? he shaved his head and looks exactly like Graham.

Match started with Stevens trying to out-wrestle Steiner, but easily got reversed and manhandled. Steiner chopped around Stevens until Aron ran to the outside. Steiner kept it up with headlocks and shoulder tackles, with Stevens constantly trying to run out. Steiner started suplexing and chasing Stevens around outside the ring, ramming him from post to stairs to post. 

Back in the ring, Stevens poked Steiner’s eyes, but to no avail, Steiner came back with a Belly-to-belly and back in control. Another B2B for a two count. Eventually, Stevens for one cheap kick and a two count with his feet on the ropes, but Steiner kicked out and came back with a Flatliner. Steiner locked in the Steiner Recliner, but the Question Mark attacked him for the DQ win. 

Steiner locked in the Recliner on Question Mark while Stevens ran away. 

NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion Nick Aldis defeated Flip Gordon to retain the title

Gordon started strong going after Aldis, using mostly strikes and his speed advantage. Aldies got out of the ring, trying to break the momentum, but Gordon chased after. They teased a suplex on the announcer’s podium, but Aldis blocked. 

Back in the ring, Aldis tried to mat wrestle, but Gordon got the better of him, getting a mount and control of the waiste. Aldis managed to get up, but Gordon got him in a headlock quickly after. Gordon kept that headlock masterfully. Aldis escaped, but got hit by an Enzuigi. Aldis walked out and when Gordon went for dive, the ref, being completely biased, stopped Gordon. Flip still hit the Top con Giro on Aldis. 

Back in the ring, Gordon went for an armbar, locked it in for some seconds, forcing Aldis to overpower him to escape. Aldis with some control now, suplexed Gordon, followed with a Fallaway Slam, and a second one from the second rope for a two count. Aldis is now the one with the headlock. 

Gordon breaks out and goes for a Crossbody, but Aldis blocks and turns it into a Vertical Suplex. Aldis started striking Gordon down to the mat, stalked him and took out Gordob’s knee. Aldis followed with the Figure 4 Leg Lock. Flip managed to roll over and reverse the pressure, but Aldis was there at the ropes.

Flip hits a Sunset Flip into a kick. Follows with a Springbaord Spear, but instead of the cover, goes for punches, European Uppercuts, and a Moonsault for a two count. Flip went for another top rope move, but Flip dropped him in the ropes and went for a second rope German, but Flip landed on his feet, only for Aldis to drop him with a Tombstone and the Top Rope Elbow Drop for a two count. 

Flip hit La Mistica into the Crossface for the submission tease until Aldis made the ropes. They got into a punch exchange with Gordon getting the upper hand until Aldis swept Gordon and going for the Sharpshooter, but Gordon got his fingers, hit a couple of Star Spangled Stunners, but Aldis managed to kick out at two.

Aldis blocked a Monkey Flip, but Gordon transitioned into the roll up, only for Aldis to block it midway and pin Gordon. Finish came out of nowhere. Good match, not better than the women’s.

Ricky Starks defeated Trevor Murdoch to become the NEW NWA World’s Television Champion

Collar and elbow to start the match, Murdoch goes for an early German, but Starks lands on his feet. Murdoch was ready with the big boot to drop Starks and start grinding down Starks with some hammers to the back. 

Starks came back with a big shoulder tackle and clothesline, but Murdoch was too close to the ropes. 

Test of strength, where Murdoch had the advantage, but Starks made a comeback, but got swept down before he could follow up. Murdoch took the fight to the floor, where Starks had the advantage going for the dive, but Murdoch caught him with a punch and rammed him to the apron. Starks built some offense with some strikes, but got tossed into the steel steps for the countout tease.

Back in the ring, Murdoch slapped Starks back to life, but sent him crashing to the floor with the most Murdoch-like backdrop you can imagine. Murdoch got a two count with a suplex. Starks went for a Tornado DDT, but missed the ropes, giving Murdoch the opening for a huge Lariat for another two count. 

Murdoch and Starks brawled in the second rope until Starks slid down and Powerbombed Murdoch for a big near fall.

Starks started chasing the Stroke, but Murdoch escaped, only to turn around to a Spear. Starks hit the Stroke, pinned Murdoch, and became the new NWA Worlds Television Champion.

Final Thoughts — 

Good show, went by quickly. I really appreciated the 6 minute tournament matches. The women took the match of the night trophy in my opinion, definitely the one with the most passion and drama in it. 

NWA 70th Anniversary Show live results: Cody vs. Nick Aldis II

Posted on by F4W Staff

The NWA celebrates its 70th anniversary at the Nashville Fairgrounds tonight.

The 70th Anniversary Show will be headlined by Cody Rhodes defending his NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship against Nick Aldis. Cody won the title from Aldis at All In, and Aldis is getting his rematch in a two-out-of-three falls match tonight.

There will also be a one-night tournament to crown a new NWA National Champion. Two fatal four-way elimination matches (Willie Mack vs. Jay Bradley vs. Mike Parrow vs. Ricky Starks and Colt Cabana vs. Sammy Guevara vs. Scorpio Sky vs. Sam Shaw) will decide who advances to a singles match for the title later in the night.

In another title match, Jazz defends the NWA Women’s Championship against Penelope Ford.

Plus, Former NWA Champion Tim Storm takes on Peter Avalon, Jax Dane & Crimson (w/ Road Warrior Animal) face The Kingdom of Jocephus, and Laredo Kid wrestles Barrett Brown.

Our live coverage begins at 7:05 p.m. Eastern time.

**********

By Richard Zahovic

There were some technical problems at the beginning as opening video has live audience audio. Joe Galli, Tony Schiavone and Jim Cornette welcomed us to the Asylum at the Nashville Fairgrounds and ran down the card.

Same audio issue as Colt Cabana and Sammy Guevara were interviewed in the back but we were hearing the commentary team. Scorpio Sky did a video promo, then it was time for our opening match.

NWA National Championship Tournament Semifinal: Sam Shaw defeated Colt Cabana, Sammy Guevara, and Scorpio Sky in a four-way elimination match to advance

Fast paced, entertaining but rushed opener. Shaw was established early as the powerhouse in the match. Sky and Guevara did a nice double plancha, and Guevara hit a shooting star press to the outside. Shaw pinned Cabana with a powerbomb off the rope — much to the disappointment of the crowd who loved Cabana.

More crazy dives by Guevara. but he was pinned by Sky — who got superkicked by Shaw straight after for the win.

There was a Blue Demon Jr. interview after more technical issues where he stated he wants a World title match at some point. Cornette, who’s been great on commentary so far, gave some more history.

Barrett Brown defeated Laredo Kid

Another entertaining but rushed feeling match. Laredo Kid started hot and hit an Asai moonsault. Brown cut him off with a dropkick coming off the ropes and then hit a dive to the outside. A flip DDT got a two count as Brown continued to control the match.

Laredo Kid made a comeback and hit a 450 off the apron to Brown on the floor. hit a slightly botched reverse rana, and both men were now selling big. Laredo Kid got a two count after a cutter off the ropes but missed a corkscrew off the top. Brown countered with a running knee to the face for the victory.

Laredo Kid looked great here and the match would have been so much better if they had had five more minutes, but they seem worried about time.

No audio again for the backstage interviews and promos as James Ellsworth appeared with Mike Parrow. Audio really letting down what has otherwise been an excellent production so far.

Ricky Starks cut a promo by the commentary position to introduce his elaborate intro video. Magnum TA was now at ringside for an interview segment and name dropped all the NWA legends and put over the NWA. He’ll be presenting the NWA National title later, Magnum was better here than 90 percent of modern wrestling promos.

NWA National Championship Tournament Semifinals: Willie Mack defeated Jay Bradley, Ricky Starks, and Mike Parrow in a four-way elimination match to advance

Good, solid match. There was a big man battle early between Parrow and Bradley with Parrow getting a two count off a sit-out powerbomb. Starks came in and caught Parrow with a roll-up and a handful of tights to eliminate him. Classic shine and eliminated formula in these four-ways tonight.

Bradley hit a final cut and butterfly suplex on Starks and was dominating the ring. Bradley got caught going to the top rope, got powerbombed by Starks, and then a splash from Mack eliminated him.

It was down to Starks and Mack. A stunner by Mack after a nice exchange got the three count, and he advances to face Shaw in the final. Bradley jumped Mack during a post-match interview as Shaw caused the distraction to establish Mack as the underdog going into their match later. Ellsworth came in and ducked during an attack that sent Bradley into the post.

Tim Storm defeated Peter Avalon

Avalon cut an in-ring promo, bragging about his prior victories over Storm and heeling on the crowd. Storm grabbed the mic and announced a kiss my foot stipulation.

Avalon jumped Storm at the bell but was quickly cut off by the former NWA Champion who took control. Storm dominated until Avalon’s manager (Nikko Marquez) created a distraction that allowed Avalon to get some offense in. Avalon accidentally hit Marquez while he was holding Storm, then Storm caught Avalon in the Perfect Storm for the win.

Post-match Avalon forced Marquez to kiss Storm’s foot instead — but Storm didn’t accept that and forced Avalon to kiss his foot too. Weakest match on the show so far, but it was very entertaining for what it was and didn’t drag on. Had a real old school feel with the stipulation and Storm was over big with the audience.

NWA Worlds Women’s Championship Jazz defeated Penelope Ford to retain her title

Jazz cut a promo and they were putting her over huge as a legend of women’s wrestling. Sound problems again for Ford’s promo. Cornette put over Mildred Burke on commentary.

Ford hit a handspring cutter, handspring elbow, and a Northern Lights suplex. Jazz regained control with a clamp, but Ford kicked out. Jazz was working as the overconfident, dominate heel. Ford came back with a couple of roll-up attempts but missed a backflip.

Jazz had the three count with a Michinoku driver, but Earl Hebner only counted two and then stopped. Jazz put Ford in an STF and got the submission. Both worked hard, and Jazz looked good and had a great presence, but the finish really hurt the match and Ford was off in places tonight.

There was a post-match interview with Jazz where she announced that she wants a shot at the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship.

Jim Cornette was in the ring for an interview with Jeff Jarrett and put over Double J and the whole Jarrett family. Jarrett talked about the NWA and thanked the crowd for continuing to support the company. Jarrett introduced the new NWA National title and put over Magnum TA. 

NWA National Heavyweight Championship Tournament Final: Willie Mack defeated Sam Shaw to win the title

Mack jumped Shaw as he was making his intro as payback for earlier in the show. Mack missed a charge in the corner, allowing Shaw to take control. Shaw used slow, deliberate offense including an old school nerve hold, leading to the almost as old school hand drop spot. Mack got a hope spot but was quickly cut off by Shaw. Shaw put on a chinlock, which led to another hand drop spot.

Mack hit an exploder suplex, and Cornette was putting him over huge as the underdog who came from nothing. Mack made his comeback with a cannonball, a Samoan drop, and hit a standing moonsault for a near fall. Shaw went up top and misses a swanton bomb.

Shaw walked into the stunner for a big two count. Shaw came back with a superkick that got two, but he missed a second superkick and Mack hit a second stunner to become the NWA National Champion. The match was plodding when Shaw was on offense, but the crowd loved Mack as the underdog. Very old school match structure and physchology that might turn off some, but it worked well in front of this audience.

Nick Aldis did an interview where he teased having his own manager to counter Brandi Rhodes in the main event tonight. Very Nick Bockwinkel style delivery here by the former champion.

Tag Team Open Challenge: Crimson & Jax Dane (w/ Road Warrior Animal) defeated Shannon Moore & Crazzy Steve

Jocephus did an interview on the ramp teasing that his spiritual advisor and Hollywood from GLOW would challenge Dane and Crimson, but it was a distraction to allow Shannon Moore and Crazzy Steve to jump Crimson & Dane from behind. The heels dominated early before Crimson hit a spinebuster, brought in Dane on a hot tag, and Dane hit a double Samoan drop. Crimson & Dane hit a Samoan drop into a cutter for the victory.

Quick match that lacked heat and felt like filler. Post-match Jim Cornette interviewed Animal — who announced that the Crockett Cup will return next year.

Dory Funk Jr. was interviewed at ringside. He told a story about watching NWA as a seven year old, talked about his dad, and put over the NWA. These interviews with the legends have done a nice job of putting over the legacy of the National Wrestling Alliance tonight.

Nick Aldis defeated Cody in a two-out-of-three falls match to win the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship

Tony Schiavone re-joined commentary to call the main event. The former NWA Champions who have been on the show tonight came into the ring as the ring announcer introduced Aldis, who comes to the ring with Kamilla Kaine. Cody entered with Brandi and shook hands with Dory Funk Jr.

First Fall

They did a handshake at the start of the match and it was solid technical wrestling in the early going. A delayed suplex and flatliner by Cody got the first two count.Aldis hit a brainbuster, and Cody came back and got a two count with a Disaster Kick.

Aldis responded with a superplex, but Cody quickly picked his leg and locked on the figure four. Aldis got to the ropes and locked on the cloverleaf for the submission to take the first fall. Aldis was selling his leg from the figure four and Cody was ready to start the next fall. Commentary was pushing the idea that Cody did more damage and it was clever strategy by Cody to tap quickly when he realized he couldn’t make the ropes.

Second Fall

Aldis wasn’t ready at the bell — so he went to the outside, Cody hit a tope as they brawled around ringside and then into the crowd. Aldis whipped Cody into a wall and Cody responded with a trash can. The brawl went through the concession stand before Aldis slammed Cody on the ramp.

Cody set up a table in the corner of the ring, and commentary was pushing that the referee will give them freedom as he doesn’t want to disqualify anyone. Aldis hit a DDT and got ready to put Cody through the table. Brandi came in the ring to save Cody. That brought brings in Kamilla Kaine, but it was Aldis that hit Brandi with a running knee from behind.

The referee got the table out of the ring, but Aldis set it up at ringside and put Cody on the table. Aldis went through the table from a top rope elbow drop as Cody rolled off at the last second. Cody hit the Cross Rhodes in the ring and it was tied at one fall each. The fans started chanting “this is awesome.”

Third Fall

Cody hit a superkick, then Aldis avoided Cross Rhodes and a moonsault attempt by Cody. Cody hit the flip, flop and fly. Both men went for a clothesline, which led to a double down in the ring. Kaine and Brandi got into a fight at ringside and the referee had enough of it — so he ejected everyone from ringside.

The distraction allowed Aldis to hit Cross Rhodes for a two count. Cody picked the leg again and put on the figure four, but Aldis made it to the ropes. Cody landed a draping DDT, and Aldis responded with a tombstone and hit an elbow off the top for another near fall.

It turned into a slugfest in the center of the ring. Aldis went for the cloverleaf — but Cody’s boot comes off. Cody got a small package, then Aldis reversed it for the three count to regain the title. Excellent main event that went around 30 minutes. The finish caught the crowd by surprise which hurt the reaction, but it was a really well-structured match.

Closing

The commentary team thanked us for joining them as Aldis celebrated in the ring. An entertaining show that went by quickly. Except for Sammy Guevara in the opening match, this felt like a very old school presentation inside the ring — which is a brave strategy in 2018 and it will be interesting to see how successful the brand is going forward.

The talent on the card was thinner than most major indie groups and it showed at times. The technical issues were cleared up by the end of the show and I really enjoyed the commentary and realistic presentation.