Raw - February 2nd 1998

Raw opens with a "special report" from Degeneration X (WWF Champion - Shawn Michaels, Triple H and Chyna). In a presidential address parody, Michaels and Triple H announce the standards and practices they will adhere to. From the hours of 9:00-10:00 PM, they will only use the words, "ass", "damn" and "hell". A lot of words they say they will not use are bleeped out. They will not use sexual or racial slurs. From 10:00-11:00 PM they will only use the words, "ass", "damn", "hell", and a word that is bleeped out. The bleeped words are repeated, as is the no sexual and racial slurs pledge. Michaels and Triple H then start swearing at each other and are bleeped out. Triple H then says they will have less references to their "enormous genitalia." Well, in Chyna's case, as anyone who has seen her porn will attest; "enormous" is an apt description. Michaels then mocks Bill Clinton, saying "I did not sleep with that young intern. As a matter of fact, I was up all night!" Juvenile and mildly amusing.

The Raw opening sequence plays.

Raw is in Indianapolis, Indiana. Jim Ross, Michael Cole and Kevin Kelly are on commentary.

DX make their way to the ring in Uncle Sam outfits. Jim Ross announces that WrestleMania tickets sold out this morning in 90 seconds. Red, white and blue balloons fall from the roof.  Chyna is carrying a sign that reads "Tyson VS Austin."

It takes Michaels a few seconds to get his microphone working. When he does, he addresses Mike Tyson and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. Michaels says Tyson and Austin want each other so "let them fight." Apparently, they're campaigning for this.

Austin's music plays. Michaels and Triple H strip off their hats and jackets as Austin makes his way to the ring. It's nice to see him appearing early in the show in a change from recent weeks. Austin squares up to Michaels.

Jim Ross wonders if Michaels really wants to see Tyson VS Austin, or if he is just trying to avoid facing Austin at WrestleMania. Gee, I wonder.  Austin says he "appreciates" Michaels promoting Tyson VS Austin, because Austin can "damn well beat the living crap out of Mike Tyson." Huge pop. Austin says that because he won the Rumble, whether Austin fights Tyson or not, Michaels "ass belongs to "Stone Cold" Steve Austin." Another huge pop. Michaels tears his shirt off and tries to look tough. Austin says whether or not it happens at WrestleMania, he is going to take the WWF Title from Michaels. Austin says he can "beat anybodies ass in the world." Austin then rips off his shirt, jaws at Michaels and Triple H, and leaves. Michaels holds the WWF belt up to Austin, and Austin gives Michaels the finger. Michael Cole wonders where Tyson fits into this situation. I liked this segment. The Tyson VS Austin thing is of course very interesting, but it was never realistic. It's time to start building towards Michaels VS Austin at WrestleMania.

Tonight, Austin will take on co-holder of the WWF Tag Team Titles, "Road Dogg" Jesse James. Owen Hart will defend the European Title against the other co-holder of the WWF Tag Team Titles, "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn. Two interesting matches, but why is a tag team wrestler challenging for a singles title? Cactus Jack takes on Chainsaw Charlie next.

A video package plays, shilling the Raw Is War varsity jacket. Raw is brought to you by the U.S. Army.

Chainsaw Charlie makes his way to the ring with a dumpster filled with weapons. Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie's match with the New Age Outlaws on last week's Raw is recapped. In a pre-recorded interview, Jim Ross asks Mick Foley and Terry Funk why they are facing each other tonight. Cactus says he is concerned about his legacy. Foley says that 10 years ago Ric Flair (who he refers to only as the World Heavyweight Champion at the time) told him no one cares about his hardcore style, that he will be in a wheelchair by the time he's 30 and no one will care. Foley says when people mention Mick Foley, he wants them to remember what they see in the ring tonight. This match would need to be a classic then. Foley says if he was meant to be in a wheelchair by age 30 then he is on "borrowed time." Funk says whoever wins this match will be "king of the hardcores" and that's what he wants to go out as. Funk and Foley shake hands. Funk tells Foley he loves him like a son, but not tonight. Back live, Cactus's voice comes over the speaker, saying, "Terry, that's not a garbage can. Here is a garbage can." Cactus Jack enters with a bigger dumpster filled with weapons.

No Disqualification Falls Count Anywhere Match:

Cactus Jack VS Chainsaw Charlie

Charlie and Cactus meet on the stage with weapons. Cactus takes control with chair shots. Jim Ross plugs these two men teaming with Steve Austin and Owen Hart against DX and the N.A.O. at No Way Out. Cactus DDT's Charlie on the stage for a two count. It was only now that I learned that this was a Fall Count Anywhere Match. If it was mentioned before, I missed it. Cactus attempts to suplex Charlie on the ladder, but Charlie counters it with an inside cradle. The two roll down to ringside which is a funny spot. Charlie takes control with fists and then throws trash cans into the ring. Inside the ring Cactus beats Charlie over the head with a garbage can. Charlie does his drunken stumbling routine. Cactus hands Charlie a trash can and requests that Charlie hits him. God, I hate this crap. This isn't wrestling. Charlie apparently has an attack of conscience and can't hit Cactus. Uh, what? Cactus turns away and Charlie smashes him with the trash can numerous times. So much for conscience. Cactus fights back and places a trash can over Charlie's head. Cactus lays kicks into the can before piledriving Charlie in it. Admittedly this is a sight to see, but it made me wince at the danger Funk's neck must have been in. Raw goes to a break and returns with Charlie and Cactus back on the stage. Charlie hits Cactus with a windmilling ladder, before throwing the ladder on him. Jim Ross says the N.A.O. must be happy watching this.  Charlie tries to set Cactus up for a piledriver on a table, but Cactus sunset flips Charlie into the dumpster that Cactus brought out with him. cactus applies the Mandible Claw. Cactus climbs a ladder onto the bottom of the big screen. Cactus elbow drops Charlie in the dumpster, from the big screen. A faint "ECW" chant can be heard. The N.A.O. emerge and lock Cactus and Charlie in the dumpster. They push the dumpster off the stage. Jim Ross is apoplectic.

ANALYSIS: I just don't like this stuff. There's no psychology to it at all. I don't care how "hardcore" Mick Foley and Terry Funk are. Admittedly, Foley would later win me over with some spectacular bumps and punishment absorption, but it was always in the context of good match psychology and story telling. There were, admittedly, a couple of spectacular moves here, but Funk at this point earned no respect from me. He's a sad old man doing ridiculous things, trying to stay relevant. The ending was a shocking moment and raised Cactus and Charlie's feud with the N.A.O. to a higher plateau. It was also a huge step for Gunn and James as their stock rises. 1/4*

Officials and wrestlers, both faces and heels; emerge to try and open the dumpster. We are shown that the dumpster is filled with foam packing material. Everyone is furious at Gunn and James. This "you've gone too far" bit is well done. We are treated to a few replays of the incident.

Jim Ross admonishes anyone watching who thinks "they learn how to fall." Cactus and Charlie are still in the dumpster. They're not moving. Vince McMahon is speaking with the N.A.O. James says it "didn't turn out as planned," while Gunn says they "didn't mean to hurt them." James says "you know me better that that." Vince looks disgusted. Sunny is crying. Terry Funk's hand is shown to be trembling as Raw goes to a break.

Raw returns with everyone still crowded around the dumpster. An ambulance has arrived. Funk and Cactus are in neck braces and are being attended to by medical personnel. Jim Ross admonishes Gunn and James, saying they did this to try and get "over." It certainly helped. Flash Funk tries to attack James and Gunn, but is restrained by officials. Ross says the N.A.O. "went into business for themselves." The Headbangers (Mosh and Thrasher) attack James and Gunn. Other wrestlers get shots in. Funk looks like he's convulsing. Sunny is holding his hand.

Foley and Funk are stretchered to the ambulance. This was a great angle that the WWF really milked. Jim Ross has a dig at Foley, Funk and ECW, when he says that "this is what hardcore gets you, it gets you in an ambulance." It was an interesting dig, which kind of removed sympathy from Funk and Foley. We are shown more replays of the incident. Kevin Kelly says that the area the dumpster landed in is a crew area, and that that crew members could have been down there, but thankfully weren't. The ambulance's siren blares and Funk and Foley are taken to hospital.

A replay is shown of the N.A.O. celebrating what they did, which Ross says is the worst thing off all. Kelly says, "both those men have children." He wonders if the children are "proud of their daddies." Raw goes to a break and returns with another replay of the dumpster incident.

Jim Ross interviews James and Gunn, who are backstage; asking them what they were thinking. James is wearing an "Armstrong Pro-Wrestling Tours" t-shirt. James says they haven't had much of a chance to get over, so that maybe when you see a chance you take it; but maybe they went too far. DX arrives and blames Vince McMahon, saying that they, the wrestlers, are asked to go out and do more and more each week. He asks, "where does it end?" Triple H tells the N.A.O. it was Foley and Funk or them and that they need to "smarten up." Michaels tells them they're "getting ratings and that's what matters." I don't really know what to make of this pseudo-shoot stuff. I liked the realism of the angle and how they milked it, and had both heels and faces come out showing concern; but I don't like the use of insider terms.

We are shown the incident again. Ross says they will keep viewers updated on Foley and Funk's condition. Michael Cole has left to follow the ambulance to the hospital.

The PlayStation Slam Of The Week is Kane Tombstone piledriving Vader on last Monday's Raw.

We move into the War Zone. Jerry "The King" Lawler replaces Kevin Kelly and Michael Cole on commentary.

The New Age Outlaws make their way to the ring to a chorus of boo's. The dumpster incident is replayed. The European Champion, Owen Hart enters and attacks first James, and then Gunn.

European Title Match:

(C) Owen Hart VS "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn (with "Road Dogg" Jesse James)

Owen hits a big sunset flip early on and then clotheslines Gunn over the top rope. As Gunn confers with James on the floor, Owen manages to drop kick them both through the ropes, followed by a springboard plancha onto Gunn. Owen Irish whips Gunn into the steel ring steps and suplex's him on the floor. The European Champion lands some nice European uppercuts. Owen was so good, I find it hard to believe this was coincidence. Back in the ring, Owen lays in kicks in the corner. Gunn manages to turn the tide by snapping Owen's throat into the top rope. Gunn distracts the referee, while James takes a cheap shot at Owen. Gunn hits a neck breaker for a two count. Gunn misses a dropkick when Owen hangs onto the ropes. Owen goes for the Sharpshooter, but Gunn thwarts it with a thumb to the eye. Owen takes a front turnbuckle Bret-style, and Gunn hits a side suplex for a two count. Time for a rest hold as Gunn applies a head lock. After a little rest, Owen fights out with fists. Gunn hits a swinging neck breaker. Owen avoids taking another front turnbuckle, by leaping to the second rope and hitting a cross body for a one count. Owen reverses a sunset flip into a Sharpshooter. James enters the ring, Owen breaks the Sharpshooter on Gunn and nails James with a spinning kick to the midsection. The referee calls for the disqualification to give Owen the win at around 6 minutes.

ANALYSIS: This was all Owen who was, without a doubt, one of the best in the world at this point. *3/4

DX make their way to ringside, as Gunn and James attack Owen. Owen is thrown to the floor, where DX attack him. They beat up Owen all the way up to the stage. Triple H DDT's Owen on the stage. Shawn Michaels turns to the camera and says, "you want ratings? You want to raise the bar? Here's your ratings." Triple H tells Gunn and James that if they want to prove themselves they have to throw Owen off the stage. Gunn and James pick Owen up and start swinging him. Officials rush out and break it up. This is actually uncomfortable viewing given what happened to Owen later.

Michaels screams at Gunn and James to "push the envelope" and "do what ever it takes." They then recap the dumpster incident and Jim Ross says Michael Cole will have a report from the hospital. The No Way Out pay-per-view is advertised.

The N.A.O., DX and Owen Hart incident is recapped again. Jim Ross says DX and the N.A.O. wanted to end Owen's career. The dumpster incident is recapped again. Michael Cole is on the phone. He says medical personnel are working on Foley and Funk, but there has been no official statement from a medic or doctor. Cole says he understands Funk and Foley were rushed to the emergency room on arrival. Cole says he'll get back to us when he finds out "something concrete." This was a nice touch and increases the feeling of the gravity of the situation.

The Headbangers (Mosh and Thrasher) enter. "Marvelous" Marc Mero enters with Sable. Jim Ross says "boy, they are quite the pair... Mero and Sable." Very good. Mero admonishes Sable for not wearing "his" robe. He makes her put the robe on, then then orders her to disrobe him. She does. Ross hypes up Mero's jealousy and insecurity. Somebody then gives Sable some chocolates in a red love heart. Mero snatches it off her and says he's sick of Sable "trying to steal his spotlight." He throws the chocolates away and orders Sable to "get out of here" because she "makes him sick." He calls her pathetic. Sable leaves. As she does, Mero tells her to "get back on that stair master, looks like you gained a few pounds." Probably all that silicone. Sable picks up the chocolates on her way to the back. Mero says he wants to bring out someone "that will watch his back", some of the "beautiful people." Mero introduces "Marilyn." TAFKA Goldust enters, dressed as Marilyn Manson; while Mero shouts, "the beautiful people, the beautiful people."

Mosh (with Thrasher) VS "Marvelous" Marc Mero (with TAFKA Goldust)

Mero takes control early on. He throws Mosh out to the floor and distracts the referee; while Goldust attacks Mosh. Thrasher chases off Goldust. Back in the ring, Mero hits a sloppy sitout powerbomb. Mero goes into his boxing routine. Mosh catches Mero coming out of the corner with a powerslam, and then hits a sunset flip, followed by a dropkick. Mosh shouts at Goldust, "what the hell are you doing?" Funny, considering Mosh's attire. Goldust climbs onto the apron but is knocked off by Mosh. Thrasher clothelines Goldust and attacks him. While Mosh and the referee are distracted by what's going on outside the ring, Mero low blows Mosh and cradles him for a three count at around 2 minutes 30 seconds.

ANALYSIS: Throw away match to promote the Mero and Goldust alliance. Nothing of any real quality, but it served it's purpose. 1/4*

Jim Ross plugs the Superstar Line. This week he'll tell you what WWF Superstar was rushed to hospital this morning.

Now we are shown a split screen. On the left hand side is Jim Cornette, the NWA North American Heavyweight Champion - Jeff Jarrett, Barry Windham and the NWA World Tag Team Champions - The Rock 'N' Roll Express (Ricky Morton and Robert Gibson). On the right hand side is Bradshaw. Jim Ross asks Windham when he will be "man enough" to face his former partner, Bradshaw, "all alone." Windham, sporting his old blonde hair and sans mustache, says he's man enough now. Windham blames Bradshaw's temper for why they lost matches, calling him "out of control." Windham says he has a better partner now in Jeff Jarrett. Bradshaw yells and says he'll do anything he has to do, including teaming with a broom handle, to get Windham in the ring. He then proves Windham's point about his temper by trashing his locker room. Windham challenges Bradshaw to find himself a partner to face him and Jarrett.

We are treated to a video package hyping possibly the most boring wrestler of all time, Tiger Ali Singh. Singh calls himself "the Messiah."

The Nation Of Domination (Faarooq, Intercontinental Champion - The Rock, Kama Mustafa, D'Lo Brown and Mark Henry enter. Unlike last week, The Rock stands in line and salutes with his stablemates; although he is the last to join the line.

The Disciples Of Apocalype (Chainz, Skull and 8-Ball), Ken Shamrock and Ahmed Johnson enter. Jim Ross hypes the "War Of Attrition Match" between all ten men at No Way Out.

Faarooq (with The Rock, Kama Mustafa, D'Lo Brown & Mark Henry VS Chainz (with Skull, 8-Ball, Ken Shamrock & Ahmed Johnson)

Faarooq attacks Chainz before the bell. Chainz reverses things with a clothesline and a poorly executed powerslam for a one count. Chainz telegraphs a sunset flip, allowing Faarooq to take control with a snap suplex for a two count. Faarooq applies a camel clutch. Jim Ross says Mark Henry is 420 pounds. That's a five pound increase in a few weeks. Faarooq tells a fan to "shut the fuck up" and as he's distracted, Chainz lifts him on his shoulders and drops him on his back. Faarooq gets his knees up to block a splash and hits a clothesline for a two count. Michael Cole reports in and says Vince McMahon is at the hospital. Terry Funk has regained consciousness, Mick Foley is drifting in and out of consciousness. Cole hopes to have more information "within the hour." Faarooq goes to the top rope but misses a dive. Chainz hits a big boot. Chainz reverses an Irish whip and Kama grabs Faarooq's foot, apparently meaning to grab Chainz's foot. Faarooq exits the ring, furious with Kama. The Nation argue with each other as Faarooq is counted out at around 3 mins 30 seconds.

ANALYSIS: Boring match with some sloppy moves, particularly from Chainz; but it helps set up the "War Of Attrition" at No Way Out and furthers the story of dissension among the members of The Nation. 1/4*

Faarooq and Kama want to fight but are held apart by the other members of The Nation. Faarooq storms off on his own. The rest of The Nation eventually follow. Faarooq orders the rest of The Nation members to line up on the stage, telling them he's the boss. The Nation do as he says and they salute.

Jim Ross announces that Bradshaw has found a partner. The Western Union Rewind is Kurrgan applying The Paralyzer on Michael Modest on Shotgun Saturday Night, and dragging him up the entranceway with the hold still applied. This did look pretty cool.

Jeff Jarrett and Bradshaw enter with Jim Cornette and The Rock 'N' Roll Express (Ricky Morton and Robert Gibson). Jim Ross mocks Jeff Jarrett's entrance gear. Bradshaw enters with his partner, Flash Funk; who Jim Ross calls "one of the most under appreciated and under valued athletes in the WWF." He was right. Bradshaw is apparently going by his Justin "Hawk" Bradshaw name again. Two Hawks in one promotion?

Justin "Hawk" Bradshaw & Flash Funk VS Jeff Jarrett & Barry Windham (with Jim Cornette & The Rock 'N' Roll Express)

Bradshaw makes a beeline for Windham, but is attacked by Jarrett. Bradshaw reverses an Irish whip and hits a big boot to the face. Bradshaw tags in Flash Funk. Jarrett reverses a slam, but as he struts he is caught with a dropkick. Funk hits a flying clothesline before making the tag. Bradshaw goes for Windham again, but Windham flees from the apron to the floor. With the referee distracted, The Rock 'N' Roll Express double team Funk on the floor, dropping him throat first across the security railing. In the ring, Bradshaw is in control with some decent brawling. Officials arrive to attend to the injured Funk. Bradshaw hits an elbow drop for a two count. Jim Ross compares Bradshaw to Stan Hansen. Flash Funk is helped to the back, unable to continue, as Raw goes to a break. Bradshaw "is by himself with the NWA," according to Ross. Back from the break, Bradshaw hits a pump handle slam on Jarrett. Jim Cornette distracts the referee so The Rock 'N' Roll Express can interfere. Jarrett knocks Bradshaw out of the ring.  Windham clothelines Bradshaw on the floor, and The Express throw him back into the ring. Finally, Jarrett tags Windham. Windham cockily lands punches, followed by a sunset flip. Jarrett tags back in for some double teaming. Bradshaw telegraphs a sunset flip and Jarrett nails a swinging neck breaker. Lawler says Windham is trying to hark back to his glory days by joining the NWA. Jarrett and Windham telegraph a double sunset flip. Bradshaw kicks Windham, and hits a vicious lariet on Jarrett for a three count at around 4 minutes.

ANALYSIS: Bradshaw looked good here. He really looked like a big, powerful monster. They kept him and Windham apart well, leaving scope for their feud to progress. Bradshaw's match winning lariet on Jarrett was brutal. It's also nice to see Windham doing something. *1/2

Bradshaw fights all members of the NWA, until Cornette nails him in the back with his tennis racket. Bradshaw no-sells it and attacks Cornette. The NWA members jump Bradshaw. All four men combine for a neck breaker, before Windham hits two big splashes on Bradshaw's legs, while The Rock 'N' Roll Express hold Bradshaw's arms, and Jarrett has a figure four leg lock applied. This was some nice teamwork. Jim Ross hypes up the problems Bradshaw has had with his knee.

We are shown the dumpster incident again. Michael Cole is on the phone from the hospital again and says that "all hell has broken loose." Police have been called in and "the condition is grave." Cole breaks up and loses his connection. Jim Ross says, "why are police in the emergency room?" We see the incident again as we go to a break, with Ross saying they will try and get in touch with Cole again.

Countdown to WrestleMania - 8 weeks left.

Jim Ross promises that as soon as they can reestablish a connection with Michael Cole they will let us know. Jerry Lawler is doing his best solemn face. Ross plugs a WrestleMania press conference this Thursday featuring Mike Tyson, Steve Austin, Shawn Michaels, Vince McMahon and Don King.

Wink Collins is in the ring. Who? I have no idea. This guy, I guess:

Wink announces that all tickets for WrestleMania went on sale this morning, and sold out in 90 seconds, the fastest sell out in WWF history. For those that don't have tickets, they can enjoy it on pay-per-view. The lights go out. Kane's music hits. Kane enters with Paul Bearer. Jim Ross hypes what Kane did to Undertaker at Royal Rumble, and the fact we haven't seen Undertaker since. Lawler says he doesn't think Undertaker is ever coming back. Kane does his fire from the ring posts bit. Paul Bearer addresses "brother Kane." Isn't Kane his son? Bearer says he thinks we should show this "young gentleman" (yes, that guy in the above picture), "a little taste of the hell the Undertaker is going through." Kane grabs Wink by the throat. Vader's music hits and Vader enters. Ross hypes what Kane did to Vader last week. Vader tells Kane he "drew first blood" after sticking his nose in Vader's business. Vader says that at No Way Out, Kane's "big ass" is his. Vader says he's going to put Kane's "fire out." Vader grabs a fire extinguisher and blasts Kane. Kane wants to attack Vader, but Paul Bearer restrains him and leads him to the back.

So Vader is officially done with Goldust I guess. He's a good opponent for Kane to squash in order to build Kane for Undertaker at WrestleMania. Raw goes to a break. "Stone Cold' Steve Austin VS "Road Dogg" Jesse James is next.

The New Age Outlaws enter once again. Billy Gunn does the "Oh, you didn't know" bit. It's not good. Gunn says a lot of people are mad at the N.A.O. tonight, but tomorrow, when the ratings come in, a lot of people at Titan Towers are going to love them. Jim Ross says there are unconfirmed reports that an ambulance has arrive back in the building. He's not sure if it's the same ambulance that took Mick Foley and Terry Funk to hospital. I think we all know what's going to happen, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin enters.

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin VS "Road Dogg" Jesse James (with "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn)

Before he gets in the ring, Austin attacks Billy Gunn. When James tries to make the save, Austin throws him, first into the guard rail and then into the ring steps. In the ring, Austin stomps James in the corner. Gunn tries to attack Austin and gets a Stone Cold Stunner for his troubles. The referee calls for the disqualification at about 1 minute.

ANALYSIS: Well, at least Austin looked pretty bad ass.

James attacks Austin as DX enter. Lawler says DX must have called the ambulance for Austin. Austin fights back against James, but DX grab his legs as he runs the ropes and pull him out to the floor. DX and the N.A.O. attack Austin; first on the floor, and then in the ring. Ross says Michaels doesn't want to face Austin at WrestleMania. They tie Austin up in the ropes. Michaels taunts Austin with the WWF Championship belt, saying this is as close as he will ever get to it. Austin's facial expressions here are gold. He really looked like a rabid, wild animal, that would maul you if it broke loose.

Mick Foley enters, dragging an IV with him. He also has a sling on.

DX and the N.A.O flee from Foley who is swinging his IV around like a weapon. Terry Funk enters with his chainsaw. He's dressed in a hospital gown.

Foley can barely stand. Austin chases DX and the N.A.O. to the back. Austin's music hits. Foley and Funk make their way to the back with Jim Ross hyping Austin VS Michaels at WrestleMania. Austin makes his way to the ring again. He has a DX t-shirt which he tears as Raw goes off the air.

FINAL ANALYSIS: This was a good show from the point of view of pushing the envelope. The dumpster incident was sold as being huge, and it came across as such. The stars of the show were undoubtedly the New Age Outlaws; this was a huge night in their careers. Following this they were on the road that would eventually see them join DX and become major stars in their own right.

I'm not fussed on the whole hardcore thing and I'm not sure Foley and Funk should have come back from the hospital the same night, but then again it played into their whole crazy, hardcore gimmick. Personally, I'd have rather they sold the effects for a couple of weeks before competing at No Way Out "against doctors orders."

No Way Out is well and truly set. Bradshaw VS Windham looks likely, and I'm actually a little intrigued to see this match. Credit to the performers, because I never thought that would happen. Vader VS Kane is also set, and although I'm a little disappointed that it's Vader that has to be fed to Kane to build him for Undertaker; Vader is the perfect man at this point to take that spot.

They're now taking the focus off Tyson-Austin, and moving towards Michaels-Austin and, of course, the importance of the WWF Title, while still milking the Tyson involvement for what it's worth. Match quality was poor to average, which was standard for TV at the time; but this was a good show in terms of moving angles forward.

Raw - January 26th 1998

Raw opens with a screen cap honouring Hall Of Famer, Bobo Brazil, who had died on January 20th at the age of 74.

A video package on Mike Tyson airs. Tyson is shown ripping up a sign that says "WCW sucks." Wouldn't it be better if he just ripped a sign that said "WCW"? We are told that at Royal Rumble, Tyson was "pulling for his favourite Superstar," "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. Last Monday's events between Tyson and Austin are then recapped. The media coverage that Tyson has netted the WWF is hyped and it is announced that the initial plan for Tyson, which was for Tyson to be a guest referee at WrestleMania; has been scrapped because Tyson now wants Austin "one on one." Don King will appear tonight, and Shawn Michaels will also have an announcement regarding Tyson.

The Raw opening sequence plays.

Raw is in Davis, Calfornia. Jim Ross, Michael Cole and Kevin Kelly are on commentary.

Mark Henry enters with The Nation Of Domination (Faarooq, Intercontinental Champion - The Rock, D'Lo Brown and Kama Mustafa). The Rock and Faarooq niggle each other in the ring, trying to get the focus of the camera. The Rock ends up in the background, not saluting with his stablemates. Ken Shamrock enters to a huge pop. Jim Ross announces that at No Way Out, the entire Nation will face Shamrock, Ahmed Johnson and the Disciples Of Apocalypse (Chainz, Skull and 8-Ball) in a Ten Man Tag Team Match. Ahmed Johnson and the D.O.A. enter as backup for Shamrock.

Ken Shamrock (with Ahmed Johnson) VS Mark Henry (with Faarooq, The Rock, D'Lo Brown & Kama Mustafa)

Shamrock attacks a distracted Henry before the bell rings, but Henry quickly reverses things with a shoulder charge before clotheslining Shamrock with the top rope. Henry hits a big powerslam for a two count. Henry is firmly in control with a backbreaker followed by a bear hug. Shamrock fights out with punches. Henry hits a slam and reapplies the bear hug. The commentators recap how Henry turned on Shamrock to join the Nation, and that his joining was a gift to Faarooq from The Rock. Henry catches Shamrock attempting a cross body and hits another backbreaker. Back to the bear hug. Shamrock fights out with a headbutt. Shamrock lands kicks on Henry's legs before taking Henry off his feet with a spinning heel kick. Shamrock sells a back injury before landing a belly to belly suplex. Predictably, all the wrestlers outside the ring pile in for a mass brawl, to end the match at around 4 minutes. For some reason, rather than a end it as a no contest, the referee awards Shamrock a disqualification win. I guess it's because The Rock attacked Shamrock a millisecond before the rest started brawling. Of course the heels leave the ring with the faces standing tall.

ANALYSIS: I quite liked this match. Henry looked dominant and it played to his strengths. The non-finish was predictable but it sets the stage for the Ten Man Tag Team Match at No Way Out. *1/2

Don King's appearance is hyped again. I wonder if they taped this at the same time as King's prior announcement a few weeks ago. Shawn Michaels announcement is also hyped again, as is Triple H's European Title defence against Owen Hart tonight. We are told that Steve Austin is here and that next we will be shown footage of what happened with Undertaker's burning casket after Royal Rumble went off the air. Raw goes to a break.

A video package airs recapping Undertaker's feud with Kane. Man, Paul Bearer was the standout performer in all of this. This was a long and masterfully produced video. We are then treated to the Coliseum Video footage that showed Undertaker's casket was empty when it was opened after Royal Rumble. We then are reminded of Paul Bearer's claim last week that he and Kane had rid the WWF of the Undertaker forever. The commentators wonder if "we will ever see the Undertaker again."

Tyson, Austin and Don King are all are all hyped again.

The Western Union Rewind is Shawn Michaels descending into the ring dressed as Undertaker last week.

The NWA North American Heavyweight Champion, Jeff Jarrett and Barry Windham enter with Jim Cornette and The NWA World Tag Team Champion, The Rock 'N' Roll Express (Ricky Morton and Robert Gibson). We are shown a video of Barry Windham talking about his NWA heritage. He says that he was "the greatest NWA Champion that there ever was" and that in this "Sports Entertainment business he got tired of being a clown." He mocks Bradshaw and says "it's time for some real wrestling" and "real sport." Jeff Jarrett says he's the man "to lead the NWA into the 21st century." Boy, he didn't know how right he was. He says he's "the man with the gold that means anything around here." The Legion Of Doom (Road Warrior Hawk and Road Warrior Animal) enter.

The Legion Of Doom (Road Warrior Hawk & Road Warrior Animal) VS Jeff Jarrett & Barry Windham (with Jim Cornette, Ricky Morton & Robert Gibson)

Jim Cornette of course joins commentary and espouses the virtues of the NWA and traditional wrestling. The commentary team recap that L.O.D. lost to The Rock 'N' Roll Express on Shotgun Saturday Night. Jim Ross is confused as to why Windham has sided with Cornette. Animal and Windham lock up to start it out, but Windham quickly knees Animal in the gut. Animal ducks a lariat and lands a shoulder tackle followed by several weak clotheslines. Windham rolls out to the floor for a breather. The crowd are very hot for the eternally over L.O.D. Windham tags in Jeff Jarrett, who walks into a kick, followed by an armlock. Animal tags in Hawk who hits a neckbreaker. Jarrett ducks a punch, slides through Hawk's legs, and lands a nice dropkick. Hawk still only has one mohawk. Jarrett gets caught strutting and is hoisted up for a gorilla press slam. Cornette leaves commentary, vowing to bring the "outlaw organization", the WWF, back into the NWA fold. As The Rock 'N' Roll Express distract the referee, Windham clotheslines Hawk from the apron. Windham tags in and hits axehandles, a slam and an elbow drop for a two count. Jarrett tags in for some double teaming. Jarrett lands a suplex for a two count. Jarrett collides with Hawk in the corner, leaving both men down. Both Animal and Windham tag in and Animals takes control with a powerslam. Jarrett breaks up a pin attempt. All four men are in the ring fighting. Hawk fights The Rock 'N' Roll Express off the apron as Cornette throws his tennis racket to Windham. Windham nails Animal on the back (which he has recently injured, nice touch) for the three count at around 4 minutes.

ANALYIS: Some very old school tactics which were an enjoyable change from the norm. *1/4

Tyson and Austin are hyped again, as is Triple H VS Owen Hart. Shawn Michaels is next. Degeneration X (WWF Champion - Shawn Michaels, European Champion - Triple H, and Chyna) are in their locker room, performing their usual juvenile hijinks as Raw goes to a break.

Shawn Michaels is shown appearing on the game shown 'Pictionary'. Last week's Mike Tyson-Steve Austin confrontation is recapped. We go to DX's locker room. Triple H kisses Shawn Michaels ass before addressing Owen Hart. He tells Owen Hart he is more of a man than Owen even at 50% condition, while selling how sore his knee is while Chyna wraps it. Triple H says he's going to send Owen where he belongs which is "that cesspool in the south." Michaels calls Steve Austin a "bad apple" ands says he's willing to "forego" his WWF Title Match at WrestleMania to allow Steve Austin and Mike Tyson to fight. Triple H kisses Michaels ass some more and tells Michaels he has to be at WrestleMania. Michaels wonders what he can do at WrestleMania while he removes his jacket to reveal a referee's shirt. Michaels says he could referee the Tyson-Austin match. Michaels says he's not only the world's greatest wrestler, but he's also the world's greatest referee, "just ask the Undertaker", which a reference to when Michaels refereed Undertaker's WWF Title defence against Bret"Hitman" Hart at SummerSlam 1997 and cost 'Taker the title.

Austin and Don King are hyped again. The Slam Of The Week is Cactus Jack suplexing Chainsaw Charlie into two set up chairs in the Royal Rumble Match. Technically, wasn't that over a week ago? Michael Cole shills tickets for next weeks Raw.

TAFKA Goldust enters with Luna Vachon. Goldust is supposedly dressed like Vader and has Vader's entrance music mixed with his own. Apparently Goldust has demanded a rematch with Vader to avenge his loss at Royal Rumble. Vader enters. He is hugely over. We are treated to a replay of Vader Vaderbombing Goldust with Luna on his back.

Vader VS TAFKA Goldust (with Luna Vachon)

Goldust plays the sneaky heel, intimating that he's trying to sneak attack Vader while Vader is playing to the crowd. Vader takes control early on with fists to the upper boy, while Jim Ross calls Goldust a "sick, deprived human being."  Vader hits a big splash in the corner, followed by a big back body drop and a suplex. Goldust low blows Vader with a kick while Luna distracts the referee. I'm noticing how much they overdo it with the heel referee distractions. The referees comes across as gullible idiots. Goldust takes control, choking Vader on the top rope and, yes, once again, distracting the referee while Luna cheap shots Vader. Goldust hits a clothesline for a two count. Vader fights back into it with fists and forearms, but Goldust cuts him off with an eye rake. Goldust blocks a charging Goldust and floors him with a clothesline. Vader hits a powerbomb followed by a Vaderbomb. The lights go out and Kane's music hits. Kane enters with Paul Bearer. I guess this match is over as a no contest at 3 minutes. Vader attacks Kane with punches and a piledriver. Goldust distracts Vader, while Kane sits up.  Kane shows great strength to Tombstone piledrive Vader. Kane does his fire from the ring posts bit.

ANALYSIS: Vader and Goldust have good chemistry. It's a pity the match was so short. Vader was really over as a face at this point, I'd say he's the number five babyface in the company behind Steve Austin, Undertaker, Owen Hart and Ken Shamrock. He was a good choice to have Kane decimate as it really helped Kane look like a monster. As for the match, it was obvious Vader had it won which would have made it two consecutive clean victories over Goldust, This match did nothing for Goldust. *

We are shown footage of Mick Foley and Terry Funk talking earlier today while the ring is being set up. Foley asks Funk if he likes watching Chainsaw Charlie. Funk says he likes watching Cactus Jack. The two jokingly insult each other. Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie VS the WWF Tag Team Champions, the New Age Outlaws ("Road Dogg" Jesse James and "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn) is next. Don King and Steve Austin's appearances are hyped again, as is Triple H VS Owen Hart.

We enter the War Zone. Jerry "The King" Lawler replaces Michael Cole and Kevin Kelly on commentary.

The WWF Tag Team Champions, the New Age Outlaws ("Road Dogg" Jesse James and "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn) enter wearing baseball catcher's masks and vests. Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie enter.

New Age Outlaws ("Road Dogg" Jesse James & "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn) VS Cactus Jack & Chainsaw Charlie

I presume this is non-title. The WWF weren't very good at clearing this up. The four wrestlers start brawling before the bell. Gunn attempts to suplex Cactus on the entrance ramp, but Cactus blocks and reverses it. Inside the ring, Charlie works James over with punches. Cactus throws Gunn into the steps before entering the ring and low blowing James in full view of the referee. Why that isn't a disqualification, I have no idea. I assume James is wearing a cup because he no sells it. Charlie DDT's James. Gunn breaks up a pin attempt and the N.A.O. double team Charlie. The match settles into an actual tag match as the N.A.O. work quick tags. Jim Ross announces that at No Way Out, Steve Austin, Owen Hart, Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie will team up to face DX and the N.A.O. Ross wonders how the teams will co-exist, particularly Owen Hart and Steve Austin who have had a storied rivalry. N.A.O. dominate Charlie with nothing more then punches and kicks. Charlie fights his way back into it and comically staggers around the ring before being side suplexed by James. Charlie jumps straight up and staggers around some more. This is just annoying to watch. Charlie somehow stumbles into tagging Cactus who takes control with - yup - punches and kicks. James breaks up a pin attempt following a double arm DDT by Cactus on Gunn. Charlie recklessly throws a chair into the ring and it hits Gunn. He throws three more, which miss Gunn and James. Disqualification? No. In the ring, James grabs one of the chairs and charges at Cactus in the corner, but Cactus gets his boot up and the chair goes onto James' face. Charlie continues throwing chairs into the ring. Cactus reaches into James tights and pulls out his cup. He then low blow kicks him before grabbing a chair. Outside the ring, Charlie nails Gunn with a chair on the outside, while Cactus nails James. DQ? No. Cactus jumps off the apron with a chair and nails Gunn who is lying on the floor. Apparently this is enough to make the referee call for a disqualification at 5 minutes. Like I said, the referees of this time period come across as idiots. Cactus puts the Mandible Claw on the idiot/referee. Cactus and Chainsaw continue beating James with chairs. They cover James with chairs and Charlie moonsaults off the top rope onto him.

ANALYSIS: This hardcore stuff just bores me. Terry Funk at this point bored me. Weapons and dangerous spots have their place in wrestling but not gratuitously. These things, combined with the nonsensical refereeing, this match was worthless to me. As the N.A.O. become embroiled fully in this feud, it looks like their feud with the Legion Of Doom is finished. 0*

Don King and Steve Austin are hyped again, as is Triple H VS Owen Hart. The No Way Out pay-per-view is plugged.

A video package airs on the Light Heavyweight Champion, Taka Michinoku. The Light Heavyweight Division was already meaningless so this was quite strange. Are they going to try and push it again.?

The Honky Tonk Man is in the ring. Why is he showing up every week now? He adds nothing. He's the guest ring announcer for the next match. Brian Christopher enters. El Pantera is already in the ring. I guess they are going to try and push the Light Heavyweight Division again.

Light Heavyweight Title Number One Contender Match:

El Pantera VS Brian Christopher

Jerry Lawler denies that Brian Christopher is his son, while Jim Ross ribs him about it. Christopher hits a nice German suplex and cackles. Jim Ross announces that the winner of this match will challenge Taka Michinoku for the Light Heavyweight Title at No Way Out. Christopher hits a clothesline after having a hip toss attempt thwarted. This was nice, it came across as quick thinking by Christopher. Christopher then proceeds to lick his biceps which is pretty unique and funny. Pantera takes advantage of Christopher's time wasting with a couple of arm drags followed by a dropkick. Christopher ends up outside the ring and Pantera hits a baseball slide and a tope. Lawler looks concerned but tries to act like he's impartial. He says he'll shake the hand of whoever wins the match. Christopher catches Pantera flipping into the corner and hits a facebuster move which is known today as the Skull Crushing Finale. Christopher mocks Pantera's outfit, which is pretty stupid looking. Christopher throws Pantera to the floor. As Pantera tries to reenter the ring, Christopher sunset flips and then powerbombs him off the apron to the floor. This was a spectacular move. Christopher cackles into the camera. Lawler's commentary is great here - "I taught... he saw that somewhere." Christopher works the crowd well.  Pantera catches Christopher coming off the second rope with both boots to the face. Pantera rolls Christopher up for a two count. Pantera telegraphs a sunset flip and Christopher hits a sitout powerbomb. Pantera avoids a senton from the top rope and rolls Christopher up for the three count at around 5 minutes. Lawler is very upset. Christopher's facials are priceless. Pantera will challenge Light Heavyweight Champion, Taka Michinoku, at No Way Out.

ANALYSIS: Man, Brian Christopher was good. He performed some impressive moves easily and his facials and crowd work were top notch. He's very much a comedy heel, but damn he's good at it. El Pantera looked sluggish. *3/4

Jim Ross challenges Jerry Lawler to shake El Pantera's hand, and Lawler says he will. Brian Christopher kicks the steel ring steps in frustration and hurts himself. Lawler enters the ring and offers his hand to Pantera. Pantera hesitantly shakes Lawler's hand. Predictably, Lawler attacks Pantera before rejoining commentary.

Jim Ross plugs the WWF Superstar Line, plugging a former WWF Superstar wanting to return to the company. What, no big name tease this week?

Backstage Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie are asked by Ross how they would describe their match tonight with the New Age Outlaws. Cactus says it was "fun." DX arrive and mockingly call Cactus and Charlie "hardcore legends". While Cactus and Charlie are distracted, the N.A.O. attack them from behind with trash cans, barrels and a chain link fence. DX join in the beat down. Raw goes to a break.

Raw returns with a recap of the N.A.O and DX's attack on Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie before the break.

The Headbangers (Mosh and Thrasher) make their way to the ring. The Quebecers (Jacques and Pierre) are already in the ring.

The Headbangers (Mosh & Thrasher) VS The Quebecers (Jaques & Pierre)

The Quebecers attack The Headbangers before the bell. I'm noticing a trend here. The Headbangers take control when Thrasher breaks free from being held by Pierre, while Jacques goes for a kick. Jacques ends up kicking Pierre. Pierre thwarts a double team and clothelines Thrasher. The Quebecers double clothesline Thrasher on the top rope. The Quebecers continue to double team, until Thrasher ducks a double clothesline and hits one of his own. Thrasher makes the tag and Mosh first slams, then dropkicks both Quebecers.The Headbangers do some double teaming now, knocking Jacques outside to the floor before double sunset flipping Pierre. Mosh throws Jacques back into the ring and The Headbangers bang The Quebecers heads together. The Quebecers manage to reverse a double Irish whip. Thrasher knocks Pierre off the top rope, while Mosh sunset flips Jacques for the three count at around 4 minutes.

ANALYSIS: Good TV match. The Quebecers served their purpose - they jobbed clean to the team higher up on the food chain, but also got in enough offence to keep themselves strong. *1/2

The Quebecers attack The Headbangers after the match, performing a very impressive move on Mosh - Jacques applies a boston crab, while Pierre leg drops him from the top rope. Excellent tag team move.

Steve Austin's appearance is hyped again. The European Title Match is next.

Countdown to WrestleMania - 9 weeks to go.

Owen Hart enters to a very loud reception. The European Champion, Triple H, enters with Chyna. But wait. What's this? It's TAFKA Goldust dressed as Triple H and Luna Vachon dressed as Chyna.

Luna actually suits the dark wig.

So, if Triple H arranged this then he was obviously okay with Goldust having a nose like this:

As Owen shouts towards the back looking for Triple H, Goldust attacks Owen. The bell rings. I guess we have a match.

Owen Hart VS TAFKA Goldust (with Luna Vachon)

Goldust hits a big clothesline. Owen takes a great bump. Jim Ross says that DX "have outsmarted us all again." Goldust slams Owen face first into... what do you think? The steel ring steps of course. Owen reverses an attempt to ram his head into the turnbuckle, swiftly leaps to the top rope and connects with a fantastic cross body for a two count. Goldust hits another clothesline, followed by a knee drop for a two count. Ross sells the unfairness os this match, saying that Owen has prepared to face Triple H. What about the fact Goldust has already had a match tonight with Vader? I guess that would make the heel the underdog. Ross also says Goldust "makes you wonder about the Rhodes family." Goldust gets distracted by the crowd and Owen is able to land some kicks to the midsection. Goldust gouges Owen's eyes and applies a reverse chin lock. Luna grabs Goldust's leg for leverage. Owen tries to rally but is caught by a knee to the midsection, followed by an elbow drop for a two count. Owen applies a beautiful cradle for a very near two count. Goldust goes to work on Owen's left leg, as Raw goes to a break. Raw returns as Owen sunset flips Goldust and lands a spinning heel kick. Owen hits a picture perfect enziguri, followed by an equally perfect drop kick from the top rope. As Owen runs the ropes, Luna hits him in the back with a crutch. The referee doesn't see it. Goldust sets Owen up for a pedigree, but Owen counters it into the Sharpshooter for the submission victory at 5 mins. Two defeats in one night for Goldust.

ANALYSIS: What can I say about Owen at this point that I haven't already said? He's just one of those guys you knew could do this in his sleep, and do it better than 90% of the roster at their best. Goldust meanwhile is in a strange position. He's getting a lot of TV time but no wins. *3/4

DX appear on the big screen and mock Owen, calling him an idiot. Triple H says, "how stupid can one family be?" Owen looks furious. The WWF Commissioner, Sgt. Slaughter makes his way to the ring. DX crack jokes about his chin. Slaughter says that since Owen Hart had a sanctioned European Title Match tonight and he won his match, Slaughter is awarding him the European Title. DX are furious. Owen is delighted. Jim Ross says that Triple H can no longer avoid Owen Hart, not if he wants the European Title back.

A video package airs recapping what has happened with Mike Tyson in the WWF so far, as well as the media coverage. Jim Ross once again teases the possibility of Tyson VS Austin at WrestleMania. Don King and Steve Austin are hyped again as Raw goes to a break.

As Raw returns we see the Tyson-Austin shoving match yet again. Now for Don King. He begins to say that Tyson will face Austin at WrestleMania, before remember that the Nevada State Commission won't let Tyson fight. He says he and Vince McMahon must come up with something creative to bring Austin and Tyson together, without violating the rules. He says Mike Tyson and WrestleMania will come together. He then says "so get there and be ready to get this event on pay-per-view." He nearly made it through without saying something stupid.

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin makes his way to the ring. Jim Ross plugs WrestleMania tickets. He then plugs next Monday's Raw. He says it could be the biggest night of Raw ever.

Austin says last week on Raw really "pissed him off." He says Tyson pushed him "in front of the world and thought he was going to get away without a payback." Austin says "that ain't happening" and that Tyson will find out "first hand, you don't mess with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin." Austin doesn't give a "rat's ass" if Tyson is a tough boxer. He wants Tyson, so if Tyson wants him, Austin will "whip his ass" anywhere - Austin's backyard, Tyson's backyard or anyone else's backyard. He says he'll give Tyson his phone numbers, beeper number and address so Tyson can get in touch with him and let him know what he wants to do. Austin says he'll knock Tyson's gold tooth out and make it into a necklace for himself. Austin addresses the fact that Don King said they (the Nevada State Commission) can't stop Tyson making a living. Well, in Austin's opinion, "getting your ass beat up by "Stone Cold" ain't much of a living." Austin says he'll be in Houston, Texas on February 15th and dares Tyson to show up. If he does, Austin will "knock his ass out." What a promo. Austin's music hits and Raw goes off the air.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Overall, an okay show. Mostly it coasted off the events of last week and the hype of a potential Steve Austin-Mike Tyson fight. Then again, they were certainly big enough things to coast off. Match quality was okay, and they named some matches and set the ball rolling for No Way Out.

Raw - January 19th 1998

Raw opens with a video package recapping events between Undertaker and Kane last week and at Royal Rumble last night.

The Raw opening sequence plays.

Raw is in Fresno, California. Jim Ross, Michael Cole and Kevin Kelly are on commentary.

Jim Ross hypes Mike Tyson's appearance tonight. Undertaker's music plays but Undertaker doesn't enter. Instead, Paul Bearer enters to a chorus of boos looking very pleased with himself. Michael Cole calls him "the devil incarnate."

The commentary team hypes up Bearer and Kane's actions last night, saying they must have "planned it for weeks." In the ring, Bearer works the crowd beautifully as the crowd chants "you suck!" Bearer says he deserves a Golden Globe for the interview he gave two weeks ago. Bearer brags about tricking the fans and Undertaker. He says last week when Kane saluted Undertaker, 'Taker smiled "for the first time in seven years." Bearer delights in the fact he tricked 'Taker. He calls last night "a beautiful night" as he recounts his and Kane's actions. Bearer mentions a little girl that cried while Kane set fire to Undertaker's casket. Bearer is so damn good in this role, as loathsome as a heel can be. He fluffs one line, calling the Undertaker's casket the "Undercasket" but he quickly corrects himself. Bearer says the plan he has been working on for the past six months has now come to fruition. He says Undertaker is gone and will never return.

Undertaker's music plays as Bearer looks frightened. The druids wheel a casket down to ringside while Jim Ross hypes up the fire last night and the fact Undertaker wasn't in the casket when WWF officials managed to open it. Ross wonders where Undertaker has been since. As the casket reached ringside, fire explodes from the ring posts and Kane's music plays as Kane emerges from the casket to the delight of Paul Bearer.

Bearer presents "the last surviving member of the Undertaker's family - Kane!" Raw goes to a break with the commentary team hyping an appearance from the Royal Rumble Match winner, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin; an announcement by Mike Tyson, and wondering if Undertaker will appear. D-Generation X are next.

A video recap of Royal Rumble plays advertising the encore available on pay-per-view.

Degeneration X (WWF Champion - Shawn Michaels, European Champion - Triple H and Chyna) are in their locker room. Triple H tells Owen Hart he "can't cut it here" and that maybe he should "pack his bags and head down south too." Ironic, considering that according to Bret Hart, he and Owen did everything they could to get him out of his WWF contract following Montreal so he could join Bret in WCW. Triple H then heaps praise on Shawn Michaels for his victory over Undertaker last night. Michaels sarcastically says he tossed and turned in bed last night and woke up guilt ridden over what happened to Undertaker. Michaels vows that "for the fans" DX would find Undertaker and bring him back tonight.

Disciples Of Apocalypse (Chainz, 8-Ball and Skull) enter. Kevin Kelly hypes up the dissension amongst the members of The Nation Of Domination last night. The Nation Of Domination (Faarooq, Kama Mustafa and D'Lo Brown) enter. Jim Ross asserts that Faarooq is the one and only leader of The Nation and all the other members, including The Rock, know it.

Six Man Tag Team Match:

Disciples Of Apocalypse (Chainz, 8-Ball & Skull) VS The Nation Of Domination (Faarooq, Kama Mustafa & D'Lo Brown)

D'Lo and 8-Ball start it out. 8-Ball hits a big elbow but D'Lo takes control with an atomic drop and a nice clothesline. Jim Ross reveals that Skull was the entrant that no-showed the Royal Rumble Match last night. Ross says he was "waylaid." It's nice that they cleared that up for continuities sake. D'Lo tags in Kama and 8-Ball tags in Chainz. Chainz takes control before tagging in Skull. Kama takes control. The Nation work Skull in the corner. Faarooq tags in as Ross reiterates that Faarooq is the leader of The Nation. Michael Cole claims Faarooq could have won the Royal Rumble Match if not for The Rock. Faarooq tags D'Lo who hits a nice elbow. Kevin Kelly hypes D'Lo's recent improvement and his bright future. Michael Cole credits Faarooq for this, while Kevin Kelly credits Faarooq for The Rock's success. The Nation are making quick tags with Skull isolated. D'Lo misses a moonsault from the top rope allowing Skull to tag Chainz. A brawl erupts between all six men. The referee calls for the bell ending the match at a no contest at around the 5 minute mark.

ANLYSIS: Okay Six Man Match. Nothing special. D'Lo Brown looked the best of the bunch. *

The two teams continue to brawl as Mark Henry and the Intercontinental Champion, The Rock, hit the ring to help their Nation partners. Ken Shamrock and Ahmed Johnson make the save, Shamrock going right after The Rock. The Rock flees the ring and taunts Shamrock, while Jim Ross says that Shamrock should be the Intercontinental Champion. As The Nation flees, Kevin Kelly says Ahmed Johnson "has never looked better." He looks in the worst physical condition he ever has. Are they getting ready to renew his push? Steve Austin and Mike Tyson's appearances are hyped again with Jim Ross stating there may be "contractual problems" with Tyson. DX's search for Undertaker is hyped again as a hearse arrives at the arena. Raw goes to a break.

A video airs featuring Vic Venom (Vince Russo) promoting the WWF and Raw magazines. Venom was the editor in chief of the magazine. Venom uses insider terms terms like "shooting" and has swear words edited out. Quite a fascinating little promo when viewed today.

The commentary team speculate if Undertaker is in the hearse as Tom Brandi makes his way to the ring. "Marvelous" Marc Mero enters with Sable for a rematch from two weeks ago. Mero makes Sable cover up with a robe which says "property of Marc Mero." Sable holds the ropes for Mero to enter the ring. Jim Ross basically buries Mero for not "attaining the greatness everyone expected he would when he came to the WWF." He orders Sable to disrobe him. Before she can, Brandi attacks Mero.

"Marvelous" Marc Mero (with Sable) VS Tom Brandi

Brandi takes control before Mero can get his robe off. Brandi hits a sidewalk slam for a two count. Mero hits a DDT and shows off before choking Brani with the ropes. A man appears at ringside with a bouquet of flowers for Sable. Mero is furious and demands to know who it's from. He grabs the flowers off Sable and orders her to go backstage. Brandi attacks Mero on the floor. Back in the ring Brandi hits a couple of chops and a spear, followed by a facebuster for a near two count. Sable hasn't left and has picked up the flowers. Brandi thwarts a TKO attempt, and rolls Mero up for a two count. Mero kicks Brandi out of the ring, where he narrowly avoids landing on Sable. Brandi hits a sunset flip for a very near two count. I'm pretty certain the referee could have hit three. Sable gets up on the apron and distracts the referee as Mero low blows Brandi. Mero hits the TKO for the three count at around 3 minutes.

ANALYSIS: I like this TV feud. Not all feuds have to culminate in PPV matches. Brandi was a good hand as a jobber and at times I actually thought he was going to get the upset victory. Mero is excellent in his role as a jealous, chauvinist pig. *3/4

Mero starts beating Brandi with the flowers which is pretty funny. I guess if a title belt shot is a knock out blow, flowers can hurt.

Backstage DX quietly approach the hearse. Chyna opens the door as Triple H prepares to strike with his crutch. A load of screaming young girls are in the hearse and they mob Michaels and Triple H who get in the hearse with them. Chyna looks unamused as she shuts the hearse door. Why would a group of teenage girls be riding around in a hearse? Mike Tyson's appearance is hyped again.

The PlayStation Slam Of The Week is Vader Vaderbombing TAFKA Goldust with Luna Vachon on his back at Royal Rumble. A spectacular visual indeed. Raw goes to a break.

Mike Tyson's limo arrives at the arena as Jim Ross reiterates that negotiations with him may have "hit a rocky road." Shane McMahon and Tyson emerge from the limo.

The Quebecers (Jacques and Pierre) are in the ring. I had almost forgotten about their short WWF run in 1998.

Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie enter with a barbed wire covered baseball bat and a chainsaw respectively.

Cactus Jack & Chainsaw Charlie VS The Quebecers (Jacques & Pierre)

Cactus attacks Pierre outside the ring as Charlie works on Jacques. Cactus hurls Pierre into the steel ring steps. Jacques hits Charlie with a piledriver as he takes control, repeatedly hammering Charlie's head into the turnbuckle. The commentary team hype up how crazy Cactus and Charlie are. Pierre tags in. Jim Ross brings up Montreal. Jacques and Pierre work quick tags and set up for a spike piledriver. Cactus prevents it. As the referee tries to restore order, Cactus applies the Mandible Claw on him. The Quebecers double clothesline Charlie with the top tope. The referee calls for the bell and the no contest at around 3 minutes. Cactus double clothelines The Quebecers over the top rope and Charlie hits a springboard dive on all three men on the floor, including his own partner. Back in the ring Jacques attack Cactus, knocking him over the top rope. Jacques flips Pierre over the top rope to land on Cactus. Nice move. Cactus grabs his baseball bat and runs The Quebecers off.

ANALYSIS: Short but sweet. It was match designed to emphasize the craziness of Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie. It accomplished that. The Quebecers didn't look like jobbers either, they gave as good as they got, including that nice double team with Pierre landing on Cactus outside the ring. On this showing, The Quebecers look a decent lower card edition to the roster, although the WWF tag division was already quite full. If it was up to me I'd keep The Quebecers and cull some teams like Disciple Od Apocalypse and Los Boricuas. *1/2

Steve Austin's appearance is hyped again and Mike Tyson's reaction to Austin winning the Rumble Match is shown. Backstage, DX continue to search for Undertaker. They come across the Mexican midgets and ask if they've seen him. Michaels sells his bad back, ordering Chyna to lift Max Mini because he can't bend down that far. Funny? Not really. Michaels decides it's a waste of time.

Raw goes to a break and returns with Mike Tyson backstage talking to WWF officials.

The next match is for the NWA North American Heavyweight Title. Blackjack Bradshaw is in the ring  with Blackjack Windham. NWA North American Heavyweight Champion, Jeff Jarrett enters with Jim Cornette and the NWA World Tag Team Champions, The Rock 'N' Roll Express (Robert Gibson and Ricky Morton).

NWA North American Heavyweight Title Match:

(C) Jeff Jarrett (with Jim Cornette, Ricky Morton & Robert Gibson) VS Blackjack Bradshaw (with Blackjack Windham)

Jim Cornette joins the commentary team. Jarrett and The Rock 'N' Roll Express attack Bradshaw before the bell. When the match begins, Bradshaw takes control with a side slam. Cornett says he's out to prove that the NWA competition are better than their WWF counterparts. He calls the WWF an "outlaw promotion" and says he will return the WWF to the NWA fold. Bradshaw hits some big chops but misses an elbow drop. Bradshaw catches Jarrett attempting a dive and hits a fall away slam. Kevin Kelly hypes up Bradshaw's performance in the Royal Rumble Match last night. Bradshaw attempts a lariat but is stopped by The Express. Jarrett hits a nice drop kick and distracts the referee as The Express take cheap shots at Bradshaw. As Jarrett attempts a kick, Bradshaw catches Jarrett's foot and lands a lariat followed by a big boot. Bradshaw hits a powerbomb, which Michael Cole calls a slam. This seems to irritate Jim Ross. Cornette leaves commentary and distracts the referee, as The Express try to interfere. Bradshaw clumsily thwarts them. Windham enters the ring and attempts a lariat on Jarrett, but Jarrett ducks and Windham hits Bradshaw. The referee turns around and makes the three count at around 3 minutes.

ANALYSIS: Pretty boring. Jarrett still hadn't gotten over by this point, and nobody had any interest in The Blackjacks. If you'd have told me then that Jarrett and Bradshaw would go on to be World Champions I'd have laughed at you. There were some nice clotheslines and old school heel tactics. *

Bradshaw seems miffed at Windham. Windham doesn't seem too concerned. Is a heel turn on the cards? As Jarrett begins to strut, Bradshaw attacks him. Jarrett and The Rock 'N' Roll Express beat down Bradshaw. Windham is slow to make the save, and even when he does, he simply tells Bradshaw's attackers to back off rather than fight them. Windham helps Bradshaw up before hitting him with a lariat and putting the boots to him. Shocking stuff. Kevin Kelly mentions the fact that Windham is a former NWA Champion. This NWA invasion is exactly like the NWO, only if instead of Scott Hall and Kevin Nash jumping, Barry Horowitz and Duke "The Dumpster" Droese jumped; and instead of Hulk Hogan turning, The Renegade turned.

The commentary team hype some house shows before Raw goes to a break hyping Steve Austin appearing on the War Zone and DX's search for Undertaker. DX are in their locker room and the lights go out. A short tribute to Martin Luther King airs, voiced by Vince McMahon. Quite surreal.

We now enter the War Zone. The intro is bad ass. Jerry "The King" Lawler replaces Michael Cole and Kevin Kelly on commentary.

They recap the lights going out in DX's locker room and hype Autsin and Tyson's appearances. Undertaker's music plays and the lights go out. A figure is lowered from the ceiling while Jim Ross exclaims "the Undertaker is back" and recaps that Undertaker was not in the casket when the casket was opened last night. The figure is revealed to be Shawn Michaels in a wig and Undertaker's jacket. Michaels dances to the DX music while Triple H and Chyna make their way to the ring with a barbecue grill. Jim Ross is indignant. This is the third Undertaker tease of the night, which is slight overkill.

Michaels and Triple H don chefs hats and Triple H is wearing an apron which says "s*ck the cook."

Jim Ross says if it wasn't for Kane, Los Boricuas and the New Age Outlaws; Undertaker would have beaten Michaels for the WWF Title last night. Triple H cracks some dick jokes. This doesn't come off as cool or funny. Frankly, it comes off gay.

Michaels and Triple H mock Undertaker being being burned. Michaels says Undertaker is done thanks to DX. Jim Ross says it's thanks to Kane that Undertaker isn't here. Triple H addresses Owen Hart, who he calls "the Mr. Hanky of the World Wrestling Federation." That was quite funny. Triple H says he will give Owen a European Title shot next week on Raw. Not very heelish, offering the babyface a title shot when you're not 100%. Triple H then compares his and Owen's penis sizes.

Triple H says he can beat Owen even with one leg. He then addresses the females in the crowd, saying "there's no need to ride space mountain. Woooo! Because it's old and it's broken down. Besides, it's bleach blonde." Another pop at Flair. That's two weeks in a row. He then begins nibbling a sausage very provocatively. Very, very gay. Triple H's "I'm bi a lot of things, but lingual ain't one of them" comment is starting to make a lot of sense.

Michaels sarcastically talks about how he beat Undertaker all by himself, with no help from anyone. He says it's time to go to "the list" and find out who's next in line to face him. Ross quips "figure it out Einstein, who won the Rumble?" Michaels then addresses Steve Austin. The crowd go crazy at the mention of his name. Michaels lists Austin's title wins and says that he (Michaels) has "been there, done that." He says Austin has only one more mountain to climb but that Michaels is not only at the top of the mountain, he is the mountain. He then calls Austin "son" and tells him to ask around in the locker room and then call every wrestler that Michaels "sent down south" and they will all tell him "The Heartbreak Kid lays down for absolutely nobody." The final part of this segment, when Michaels got serious, was entertaining.

Ross hypes Tyson's announcement again.

Countdown to WrestleMania - 10 weeks left.

Ross hypes No Way Out: In Your House.

Mike Tyson is shown backstage talking to the Legion Of Doom (Road Warrior Hawk and Road Warrior Animal). Sunny interrupts and flirts with Tyson.

Los Boricuas (Savio Vega, Jesus Catillo, Jose Estrada Jr. and Miguel Perez) are in the ring. The Honky Tonk man joins commentary and claims Mike Tyson has been following him around all day trying to get his autograph. Owen Hart, The Headbangers (Mosh and Thrasher) and the Light Heavyweight Champion, Taka Michinoku enter.

Eight Man Tag Team Match:

Owen Hart, Taka Michinoku & The Headbangers (Mosh & Thrasher) VS Los Boricuas (Savio Vega, Jesus Castillo, Jose Estrada Jr. & Miguel Perez)

Ross hypes up the fact that Owen owes Los Boricuas for their attack on him. No mention so far tonight of Jeff Jarrett and Jim Cornette attacking Owen Hart at Royal Rumble. That incident is starting to seem rather strange. Taka Michinoku and Miguel Perez start the match and do little, except for a hurricanrana from Taka. The Honky Tonk Man and Jerry Lawler discuss what they would do to Mike Tyson in a fight while Jim Ross alludes to the fact Honky and Lawler are cousins. The Headbangers double team Jesus. Miguel hits a cheap shot from the apron on Thrasher to turn the tide. Savio hits a nice spinning heel kick on Thrasher in the corner. Savio misses a big splash in the corner, which allows Thrasher to tag in Owen. The crowd pops. Owen was very over at this point. Owen goes to work on all of Los Boricuas and the match descends into a brawl. Owen puts the Sharpshooter on Jesus who taps out at around 3 minutes 30 seconds.

ANALYSIS: A nothing match really. An eight man match needs a lot more than three and a half minutes if it's to have any substance. The match seemed to exist solely for Owen to get some heat back from Los Boricuas, which was logical. 1/2*

Outside the ring, Michael Cole asks Owen if he accepts Triple H's challenge. He does. Owen says he's going to break Triple H's other leg.

Mike Tyson is in the locker room talking to the Nation Of Domination (Faarooq, Intercontinental Champion - The Rock, Kama Mustafa, Mark Henry and D'Lo Brown). Jerry Lawler says The Nation is trying to recruit Tyson. Steve Austin's appearance is hyped for the trillionth time. Raw goes to a break.

As Raw returns, the Intercontinental Champion, The Rock is in the ring. He plays up to the crowd as they chant "Rocky sucks." It's amazing how he turned those chants from disastrous babyface heat into red hot heel heat. Jim Ross mentions how close The Rock came to winning the Royal Rumble Match last night. Ahmed Johnson enters. He runs down to the ring (a feat in itself) and is attacked immediately by The Rock.

The Rock VS Ahmed Johnson

I'm assuming this is a non-title match. The commentators either don't say or I missed it. The Rock throws kicks, one of which clearly misses Ahmed by at least a foot. Why are we supposed to care about Ahmed as a babyface at this point? He turned heel and joined The Nation who proceeded to turn on him. That makes him a face again? The Rock dominates with a suplex, a slam and a People's Elbow for a two count. The crowd continues to chant "Rocky sucks." Ahmed blocks a suplex attempt and hits one of his own. Ahmed knocks The Rock outside to the floor and follows him out. Ahmed throws Rock into the steel ring steps. This really was the flavour of the month at the time. Mark Henry makes his way to ringside and grabs a chair. Back in the ring, Ahmed hits a spinebuster and signals for the Pearl River Plunge. For some reason he then runs the ropes and Mark Henry nails him the back with the chair. Rock hits a Rock Bottom for the three count at around 3 minutes.

ANALYSIS: Ahmed was done at this point. Rock had great heel heat and his sheer charisma made even short matches such as this entertaining. *

Ken Shamrock hits the ring and The Rock and Mark Henry flee.

Mark Henry slaps The Rock's ass.

Steve Austin's appearance is hyped again. The WWF Tag Team Title is on the line next. Mike Tyson is with Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie. Cactus is encouraging Tyson to hit him with his barbed wire covered baseball bat. Raw goes to a break.

Raw returns with a Rewind: highlights from last night's WWF Title Casket Match, promoting the encore showing of Royal Rumble. Mike Tyson is with DX. He's comparing biceps with Chyna. Shawn Michaels is trying to recruit Tyson into DX.

The Godwinns (Henry and Phineas) are in the ring. The WWF Tag Team Champions, the New Age Outlaws ("Road Dogg" Jesse James and "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn) enter. James says the N.A.O. have no beef with The Godwinns. The N.A.O. are wearing overalls in tribute to The Godwinn's. The Godwinn's attack N.A.O.

WWF Tag Team Title Match:

(C) New Age Outlaws ("Road Dogg" Jesse James & "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn) VS The Godwinns (Henry and Phineas)

Henry and Gunn start it out. Henry hits a big clotheline and strips Gunn's overalls off. Phineas tags in and Irish whips Gunn into James. Phineas completely botches a gut wrench suplex. He gets a two count as he checks he hasn't injured Gunn after dropping him on his head. Phineas takes control with haymakers and tags in Henry. The commentators discuss Undertaker's whereabouts as Henry hits a big elbow drop for a two count. Henry knocks James off the apron and distracts the referee as Phineas chokes Gunn. Phineas tags in and nails a headbutt. Phineas slaps and spits on Gunn before attacking James and distracting the referee so Henry can go to work on Gunn. Henry tags in and hits another nice clothesine for a two count. Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler discuss Lawler's fued with Andy Kaufman which is pretty cool. Gunn rallies with fists but is sunset flipped. Henry hits a flapjack and tags in Phineas. The Godwinns hit a double flapjack on Gunn. James breaks up Phineas's pin attempt at two.  Gunn reverses an Irish whip and James tosses Gunn a stuffed pig that the N.A.O. brought to the ring with them. As the referee is distracted by Henry., Gunn nails Phineas with the pig for the three count at around 5 minutes. Henry nails James with an empty slop bucket and rips the stuffed pig open to reveal a brick.

ANALYSIS: The Godwinns worked this match as full on heels. It was hard not to sympathise with Billy Gunn who was isolated from his partner for the whole match. James didn't even tag in. The N.A.O. got their heel heat back at the end though so it was a pretty well worked match between two heel teams. *

Henry Godwinn is furious and threatens to throw the brick at the commentators. Jim Ross doesn't seem too concerned as he hypes the WWF Superstar Line, teasing a "macho week for the WWF." Hogan last week, Savage this. Ross hypes Austin and Tyson again. Raw goes to a break as Vince McMahon makes his way down to the ring to a chorus of boos.

McMahon introduces Mike Tyson in his classic Mr. McMahon "you're fired!" voice. Tyson and his entourage make their way to the ring to a mixed reception. The crowd is very loud, whether positive or negative. What a great piece of business this was for the WWF. Tyson and McMahon shake hands.

McMahon kisses Tyson's ass. Tyson speaks of how he's a longtime WWF fan, citing his favourites as Bruno Sammartino (a rib by Vince I'm sure) and, bizarrely, Nikolai Volkoff. Vince begins to announce that "on March 29, at WrestleMania, in this very ring, "Iron" Mike Tyson will..." At that moment "Stone Cold" Steve Austin's music plays. Austin enters to a huge pop. Jim Ross utters the immortal line, "Mike Tyson is standing in Stone Cold's ring." The ring fills with officials as Austin salutes the crowd. McMahon asks Austin's why he's here. Austin says he's sick and tired of seeing Mike Tyson, and that Tyson shaking hands with all the WWF Superstars has made him so sick he's been "in the back throwing up." Tyson offers Austin his hand. Austin refuses saying he isn't out there to make friends with Tyson.

Austin tells Tyson he respects what he has done in boxing but that "when you step in this ring you're messing with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and that's something you don't do." The crowd go nuts. Austin says he wants "a piece of Mike Tyson's ass." How homo-erotic has this show been? McMahon keeps trying to interject, but Austin keeps telling him to shut up or else he'll "knock his lights out too." Austin tells Tyson that he may call himself the baddest man on the planet but right now he has his "little beady eyes locked on the world's toughest son of a bitch." The crowd lap it up. Austin tells Tyson he can beat him "any day of the week, twice on Sunday." Does Austin think Tyson could beat Austin's ass? "Hell no!" Does Austin think he could beat Tyson's ass? "Why, hell yeah!" Austin says "if you don't understand what I'm saying, I always got a little bit of sign language" and proceeds to flip Tyson the double bird.

Tyson shoves Austin and a huge pull apart ensues with Jim Ross yelling "Tyson and Austin! Tyson and Austin!" Ross's commentary really added to moments like this.

Austin won't stop trying to get to Tyson. McMahon is furious at Austin, screaming, "you ruined it damn it, you ruined it!" McMahon is trying to attack Austin. Austin gives McMahon the finger. This is classic stuff.

Jim Ross wonders what the announcement was that Austin "ruined." Austin is dragged to the back by officials. Ross says Austin nailed one of Tyson's entourage. Raw goes to a break.

Raw returns with highlights from Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie's weapons fest in the Royal Rumble Match. We are shown a recap of what just went down between Tyson and Austin.  Lawler says "Tyson wants "Stone Cold", but not as bad as "Stone Cold" wants Tyson." Backstage Tyson is furious with Vince McMahon. McMahon is apologizing profusely as Raw goes off the air.

FINAL ANALYSIS: This show was one of the most pivotal in the history of the Monday Night Wars. The Austin-Tyson angle was groundbreaking and stands as legendary to this day. If Austin wasn't well on his way to being the biggest wrestling superstar of all time before, he was now. Tyson played his role about as well as could be expected. The final pay off from this that everyone obviously wanted to see was Austin VS Tyson, but, of course, that was never going to happen. This angle was also a key moment in advancing the Mr. McMahon character and his feud with Austin.

I'm left slightly perplexed that there is no follow up to the Jeff Jarrett-Owen Hart angle at Royal Rumble. I guess Owen got his revenge for being attacked on the night, so it's settled, but why did Jarrett attack Owen in the first place? Was it just a random attack to show how dastardly the NWA is? If so, why have him attack Owen who is just about the only babyface in the Rumble Match, aside from Ken Shamrock; who is already heavily invested in a feud? It just seems overly convoluted.

Anyway, like I said, this was a key show thanks to one major angle. The match quality wasn't anything great but the hype for WrestleMania is well and truly underway.