Raw - February 9th 1998

Raw opens with Sunny dressed as Marilyn Monroe, singing 'Happy Birthday' to Freddie Blassie.

A video package on Blassie airs, wishing him a happy 80th birthday.

A recap is played of events last week between "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and the WWF Champion, Shawn Michaels. Michael Cole says "tonight, there will be "Stone Cold" hell to pay."

The Raw opening sequence plays.

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

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin makes his way to the ring, carrying a white bag. Austin tells Shawn Michaels he "doesn't come out on national television, and rub a damn belt" in Austin's face. Austin says at No way Out he "wants a piece of Michaels ass." In fact he "doesn't want to wait that long", so Austin challenges Michaels to come to the ring now.

Degeneration X (WWF Champion - Shawn Michaels, Triple H and Chyna) appear on the big screen. They are in their locker room. Michaels is laughing. Michaels mock Austin for what happened last week. Michaels says he punked Austin out "like a dog." Michaels tells Austin he doesn't call the shots around here, Michaels does. If Austin wants a piece of Michaels, he will only get it when Michaels says so. Michaels says if Austin can give him one good reason to come out to the ring, he will; and he will "slap the taste right out of Austin's mouth, once again." Austin says he knows Michaels won't come out "for the hell of it," because Austin will "beat his damn ass." Michaels feigns fear. Austin tells Michaels he has a reason for Michaels to come out to the ring - Austin has Michaels WWF Championship belt. Michaels looks for his belt and realises it has been replaced with a toy replica. That was funny.

Austin takes the WWF Championship belt out of the bag he brought with him, and holds it aloft.

DX are furious. Michaels calls Austin a thief and tells him he's "a dead man." Austin says he will be there all night, and if Michaels wants it back he can "bring his ass to the ring," and Austin will give it back to him if Michaels "asks real nice." Austin's music hits and he leaves. This whole segment was quality.

The commentators hype upcoming footage of the WrestleMania press conference which will reveal Mike Tyson's role at WrestleMania. An ad for the Raw Varsity jacket airs.

Sunny makes her way to the ring. She is the guest ring announcer for the next match. Please no midgets, please no midgets. Phew, the Legion Of Doom (Road Warrior Hawk and Road Warrior Animal) enter. Hawk has both mohawks back. We see a recap of what happened when the L.O.D. faced Jeff Jarrett and Barry Windham two weeks ago on Raw. Jarrett and Windham won following interference from the rest of the NWA members. Kevin Kelly says the L.O.D. have been on "an incredible losing streak." The NWA North American Heavyweight Champion, Jeff Jarrett and Barry Windham enter, with Jim Cornette and the NWA World Tag Team Champions, The Rock 'N' Roll Express (Ricky Morton and Robert Gibson).

The WrestleMania press conference is hyped again, as is a match later tonight - Ken Shamrock & Chainz VS Faarooq & Intercontinental Champion, The Rock. Jim Ross says that somewhere tonight Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels will cross paths.

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

Hawk and Windham start it out. Kevin Kelly says the L.O.D. are learning it's hard to win in tag team action in the WWF now with just two people. Hawk takes control with brawling and a sloppy Thesz press. Jarrett and Animal tag in. Animal hits some power moves. Windham distracts Animal and Jarrett knocks him outside to the floor. Windham clotheslines Animal on the floor while the referee is distracted. Back in the ring. Jarrett is in control. He tags in Windham for a double elbow. Jim Ross is really hyping up how the L.O.D. are not what they used to be. Windham lays in kicks in the corner and hits a suplex with a nice roll through for a two count. Kevin Kelly says the talk in the locker room is that no one finds the L.O.D. intimidating anymore. Jarrett tags in, and Animal reserves a back body drop into a cradle for a two count. Animal small packages Jarrett, but Windham breaks it up before tagging in. Ross says the NWA should be keeping an eye out for Justin "Hawk" Bradshaw. Animal ducks a lariet and hits a powerslam. Both men make the tag. Hawk takes control with chops and a spinning neck breaker. All four men enter the ring and brawl. Animal sends Windham over the top rope to the floor. The L.O.D. double team Jarrett. Jarrett avoids a Hawk spear in the corner, and Hawk hits the ring post before falling to the floor.  Cornette nails Hawk in the back with his tennis racket, and The Rock 'N' Roll Express  drop him knees first into the steel ring steps before rolling him back into the ring. While Animal works on Windham in the corner, Jarrett applies the figure four leg lock on Hawk. Justin "Hawk" Bradshaw hits the ring and Jarrett and Windham flee. The bell rings, awarding the disqualification victory to Jarrett and Windham at around  4 minutes 30 seconds. Bradshaw attacks The Rock 'N' Roll Express and the chases Jarrett and Windham up the entranceway.

ANALYSIS: So  L.O.D., a tag team who's whole gimmick is no-selling ass kickers, are now hopeless? Right. At least they progressed Bradshaw's feud with the NWA. 1/2*

Michael Cole says DX have a plan to get the WWF Championship belt back. Raw goes to a break. A video package airs hyping No Way Out on pay-per-view this Sunday, focusing on the Eight Man Tag Team Match main event.

We are shown footage of DX formulating a plan to get Michaels WWF Championship belt back from Steve Austin. Apparently it involves Chyna.

The Quebecers (Jacques and Pierre) enter. Jacques is carrying a slop bucket. We are shown a recap from Shotgun Saturday Night, when The Godwinns cost The Quebecers a match against Los Boricuas. The Godwinns (Henry and Phineas) enter. Michael Cole says The Godwinns will face The Quebecers at No Way Out. As it stands, I'm figuring this to be a heel VS heel match. Another recap from Shotgun Saturday Night airs, showing The Quebecers attacking The Godwinns and causing them to lose to the other half of Los Boricuas.

Henry Godwinn (with Phineas Godwinn) VS Pierre (with Jacques)

The two brawl early. Henry hits a big clothesline out of the corner. Pierre hits a clothesline of his own after Henry blocked a hip toss. Pierre throws Henry out to the floor and does a running dive onto him. Nice move. Henry barely caught him. Back in the ring, Pierre hits a side slam. Pierre goes to the top rope and hits a leg drop; another impressive move for a man of his size. Pierre applies a chin lock. Henry breaks it and attempts to rally; but Pierre catches him with a knee to the gut, followed by a slam. Pierre goes up top again an attempts a cannonball. Henry moves out of the way and avoids it. Henry takes control with fists and a big back body drop. Henry works on Pierre's left knee, before clotheslining Pierre over the top rope and onto the floor. Henry runs the ropes as Pierre climbs back in, but Jacques grabs Henry's foot and trips him. Henry attempts to grab Jacques, who hits Henry in the head with the slop bucket while the referee is distracted by Phineas. Jim Ross calls the bucket shot a chair shot. Phineas chases Jacques into the ring. As the referee is distracted by Jacques, Pierre makes the cover. Phineas hits Pierre with a weak looking shot to the head with his own slop bucket. Henry makes the cover for the three count victory, before Jacques can make the save, at around 4 minutes 30 seconds.

ANALYSIS: I enjoyed this match. Pierre was definitely an underrated talent and he performed some impressive flying moves here for a man of his size. It's another match built for No Way Out and was a decent mini-angle. Pierre definitely worked heel here, so I'm guessing this is the beginning of a Godwinns face turn. *3/4

Backstage, Chyna is looking for some help in recovering the WWF Championship belt. She approaches Los Boricuas (Savio Vega, Jesus Castillo, Miguel Perez and Jose Estrada Jr.). She interrupts their card game and they have a discussion in Spanish. She rubs her fingers to imply there will be money in it for them if they can retrieve the belt. They agree.

Brian Christopher and El Pantera make their way to the ring. We are shown a recap from Shotgun Saturday Night, when Pantera teamed with the Light Heavyweight Champion, Taka Michinoku, against Christopher and Flash Flanagan. Pantera cost his team the match and then turned on Taka. Pantera will challenge Taka for the Light Heavyweight Title on Sunday at No Way Out. Taka Michinoku and Aguila enter.

Taka Michinoku & Aguila VS Brian Christopher & El Pantera

Jim Ross says the WWF has high hopes for the Light Heavyweight Division. Good joke. Aguila and Pantera start it out. They perform some typical Luche Libre flips and arm drags. Pantera gets thrown over the top rope to the floor. Christopher tries to attack Aguila, but is met with a kick to the face. Taka tags in, and he and Aguila send Chrstopher over the top rope to the floor. They botch a double dropkick to Pantera on the apron. Pantera lands on Christopher. Aguila performs a nice corkscrew plancha onto both Christopher and Pantera. Taka follows that up with a springboard plancha. Back in the ring, Pantera takes Taka down with a flying head scissors. Pantera misses a moonsault from the tope rope, but lands on his feet. Jim Ross calls Taka "a wonderful young man." Taka hits a nice dropkick.  Pantera tags in Christopher. Taka ducks a clothesline and hits a spinning heel kick before tagging in Aguila. Christopher reverses and Irish whip into the corner, and ducks a moonsault from the second rope. Christopher facials are, as always, great. Christopher taunts Taka as he hits Aguila with fists. Jim Ross says they will keep us abreast of Chyna and Los Boricuas search for Steve Austin. Christopher hits a full nelson into facebuster as Raw goes to a break. Back from the break, Christopher is still in control. Christopher hits a nice German suplex as Ross hypes No Way Out. Christopher tags in Pantera, who misses a Senton. Aguila makes the tag and Taka takes control with hurricanrana's to both Christopher and Pantera. While the referee is distracted by Pantera, Christopher reaches into his tights and pulls out an object. He swings at Taka, but Taka ducks and hits a side suplex. Pantera grabs the object and puts it in his mask. Pantera tags in (I think he already was the legal man) and headbutts Taka off the top rope for the three count at around 6 minutes. The object falls out of Pantera's mask and Christopher grabs it and stuffs it back into his tights. Taka is out cold.

ANALYSIS: Not bad. Some typical Lucha Libre stuff which I'm not a fan of. Pantera didn't take long turning heel did he? I guess they feel they couldn't have a face VS face match at No Way Out. I don't see why not, the Light Heavyweight Division is all about high spots with little psychology. Pantera got the pin on Taka here, which telegraphs Taka winning on Sunday. *

The WrestleMania press conference is hyped again. Shawn Michaels warns Tyson that he will "knock his teeth out" if he messes with Michaels, and "by the looks of things, he can't afford that."

Raw goes to a break and  when we return, Kane and Paul Bearer make their way to the ring. Jim Ross hypes Kane VS Vader at No Way Out. Kevin Kelly hypes Kane's actions at Royal Rumble. Paul Bearer calls Undertaker's fans "leeches of the night." He says everyone is still in shock from seeing Kane Tombstone piledrive Vader on Raw two weeks ago. We are shown footage of the move. Bearer addresses Vader's attack on Kane with a fire extinguisher last week. Bearer calls the extinguisher a "lethal weapon." We are shown the incident. Bearer says Vader tried to put out Kane's only good eye. Bearer says he's "sick and tired of hearing 'It's time! It's time! It's time!'" Bearer says this Sunday will be time as he hands Kane a clock with Vader's face on it. Bearer tells Kane to "show the world what time it's going to be." Kane sets the clock on fire. Bearer says it's time for Vader to be "snuffed out," just as Bearer snuffs out the fire. Bearer says for anyone that thinks Undertaker will show up, he won't because he is "gone for eternity." We are shown footage of Kane setting Undertaker's casket on fire at Royal Rumble. Bearer and Kane leave as the commentary team hype Vader VS Kane at No Way Out.

Raw goes to a break hyping Ken Shamrock & Chainz VS Faarooq & The Rock next, as well as the WrestleMania press conference. Steve Austin is show warning Tyson that if he gets in Austin's face, there won't be any "$100 million rematch between Tyson and Holyfield" because Austin will "knock Tyson's damn lights out and he won't ever want to get back in the ring." Tyson covers his ears at this.

The Slam Of The Week is The Rock beating Tom Brandi with a Rock Bottom on Shotgun Saturday Night.

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

Ken Shamrock and Chainz enter, with 8-Ball, Skull and Ahmed Johnson. Jim Ross hypes the "War Of Attrition" at No Way Out. The Nation Of Domination (Faarooq, The Rock, Kama Mustafa, D'Lo Brown and Mark Henry) enter. There are very loud chants of "Rocky sucks." The Rock grabs a mic and says the world wants to know how he feel about human genetic cloning. The Rock says he's in favour of it "but only if it's done selectively." The Rock says that as he looks out at the audience he sees "absolutely no one worthy of being cloned." The Rock says he's the only person in the entire world worthy of being cloned. Jim Ross wonder what The Rock's parents think of his arrogance.

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

Faarooq and Chainz start it out. Chainz hits a clothesline and tags in Shamrock. Shamrock lays in punches and kicks. The Rock tags in and gets caught with a flying kick, followed by clothesline's. The Rock begs off to his corner. Jim Ross pays tribute to Gordon Solie, as Faarooq tags in and gets arm dragged. Chainz tags in. D'Lo grabs Chainz foot, allowing Faarooq to toss him to the outside. The Nation attack Chainz, while Faarooq distracts the referee. A little bit of overkill on the referee distraction tonight. The Nation roll Chainz back into the ring and Faarooq hits a powerslam for a two count. The Rock tags in and lays in boots and fists in the corner. The Rock threatens the referee for breaking up his punches and kicks, allowing Chainz to come out of the corner with punches of his own. The Rock takes control again with a slam and People's Elbow for a two count. Faarooq tags in and works on Chainz back. Chainz catches Faarooq with a knee to the groin. Not a disqualification apparently. Faarooq writhes in pain and tags Rock. Chainz tags in Shamrock. Shamrock cleans house and hits a belly to belly suplex on Faarooq. The Rock breaks up a pinfall attempt. Faarooq wasn't the legal man to be pinning anyway. Chainz chases The Rock and gets caught by The Nation. A brawl erupts between everyone at ringside, as Shamrock hits a hurrincanrana on Faarooq. Shamrock applies the ankle lock. While the referee is distracted by what's happening outside, The Rock enters the ring with a chair and levels Shamrock. Farrooq pins Shamrock for the win at about 4 minutes 30 seconds.

ANALYSIS: An okay match, helping to set the table for the match on Sunday. The Rock and Faarooq worked together well, casting doubt on the split they've been teasing. *

Afterwards, Shamrock 'snaps' and attacks The Nation. The Nation flee. Shamrock belly to belly suplexes the referee. Shamrock's teammates try to calm him down. Shamrock belly to belly suplexes Chainz. 8-Ball, Skull and Ahmed Johnson restrain Shamrock. Shamrock calms down and the four men stand united in the ring. This was well done. Shamrock's 'snapping' was well played and really sold him as a dangerous man.

Raw goes to a break hyping the WrestleMania press conference next. Apparently Tyson is the WrestleMania enforcer.

A short video package airs on "Stone Cold" Steve Austin.

Countdown to WrestleMania - 7 weeks to go.

Now for the WrestleMania press conference, which took place this past Thursday at the All-Star Cafe in New York City. Jerry Lawler calls it "the biggest press conference to ever take place in New York City." At the press conference we are treated to some Vince McMahon hyperbole. Michael Cole's voice hypes the press coverage. Vince officially announces Mike Tyson as the enforcer of the WWF Title Match between Shawn Michaels VS "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. What that means is Tyson will be outside the ring "in somewhat of a guest referee capacity." Thanks for clearing that up. Austin says he's "busted his ass for 8 years" for this opportunity. Austin tells Michaels that professionally he thinks he's one of the best, but personally he think he's "a big piece of trash." That pretty much sums up everyone's feeling's on Shawn Michaels. Michaels says he "does not lay down for anybody." Again, very true. Vince calls Mike Tyson "the hottest thing in sports." Tyson says the WWF is his life "as of now" and that he was attracted to the WWF because of Bruno Sammartino, because he was quiet; and the Valient Brothers, because they were flamboyant. Michaels mocks the boxers Tyson has beat, putting over wrestlers as being tougher. Michaels was very good here. Austin says he thinks he can beat Tyson. Tyson says "keep dreaming." Austin says he "would love" to face Tyson after he beats Michaels, "with gloves on" because Austin "would beat the hell out of him." Tyson calls Austin an "uncouth imbecile" and says he "can't function with people." Tyson says Austin always wants to hurt or kill somebody and that he should "try loving somebody." That was very funny, especially delivered in Tyson's voice. Austin says the end result is he's going to "open up a can of whoop ass, and Shawn Michaels is going to eat it, one way or another." Michaels says he can "make an ass" out of Austin "anytime he wants."  Michaels and Austin get into a shoving match, with Tyson keeping them apart. We are shown some news reports on the press conference, followed by newspaper clippings.

Man, talk about your big fight feel. Everyone played their part here. Shawn Michaels was very old school in putting over the toughness of wrestlers. Ironic considering he's one of the least tough. Austin was Austin, and Tyson was gold; he genuinely seemed to want to play his part to the best of his ability and not just phone it in.

Raw goes to break and returns with Chyna and Los Boricuas backstage searching for Austin.

Steve Blackman is in the ring doing his glow in the dark kendo stick routine. Recon enters, with Sniper.

Steve Blackman VS Recon (with Sniper)

As the match begins, Kurrgan and The Jackyl's music plays. Jackyl lowers from the ceiling with a pulpit, saying he "sacrifices himself" for the "soiled masses" that "hang on his every word." He says he interrupts this match because of "the systematic smear campaign that the WWF has been involved in from the very beginning." He says he has listened to his sister "cry herself to sleep" after hearing Jim Ross compare Jackyl to "every sociopathic monster who has ever walked the face of the Earth." Jackyl says he is not a sociopath, but a rather "a spiritualist, a philosopher and a poet." He says the WWF fear him because he's "a great leader of men." He says that when he has a mic it's like he's "engaged in intellectual intercourse with the whole audience." He says the WWF fear the "revolution which has begun" and that every week they see more and more of his "Jackylites." In the ring Recon throws Blackman out to the floor and distracts the referee while Sniper cheap shots Blackman and throws him into the ring steps. Jackyl says he has "tried to preach peace" but the WWF only understands "the language of violence," so he and The Truth Commission will "speak that language louder than anybody else." He hypes up what he has done with Recon, Sniper and Kurrgan. He overhypes their achievements. The crowd begin to get restless. Blackman misses an elbow drop off the second rope. Recon misses a dive off the top rope and Blackman applies an arm submission for the win at around 4 minutes.

Jackyl stops droning when he realises his man has lost. Jackyl is furious at Recon and berates him. Recon apologises and gets a slap. Recon threatens to hit Jackyl, who turns his back on Recon and laughs. Recon and Sniper leave. Jackyl shows the peace sign to the camera.

ANALYSIS: It was hard to concentrate on the action in the ring. The whole Jackyl hippy, Charles Manson thing was just baffling. Unique, but baffling. 1/4*

Jim Ross hypes the Superstar line, saying a former great NWA Champion is negotiating with Jim Cornette to join the NWA.

The WWF Tag Team Champions, the New Age Outlaws ("Road Dogg" Jesse James and "Bad Ass" Billy Gunn) enter. They reminisce about last weeks dumpster incident with Mick Foley and Terry Funk. It's strange that this is the first mention tonight of such a hot angle that took place only a week before. The N.A.O. say since they had so much fun last week they should do it again. They wheel out a dumpster. James comically describes the dumpster like it's a plane. We are shown the incident from last week with James mock crying. He says that from the crash there were only two survivors - Captain Dogg and his co-pilot Captain Ass.

The N.A.O. decide to relive the incident and push the dumpster off the stage. Two dummies dresses as Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie fall out of it. Jim Ross mocks the N.A.O., saying they're "getting ratings" and "getting over." Gunn and James perform CPR on the dummies. Jim Ross hypes Foley and Funk "getting their hands" on the N.A.O. on Sunday. James says if there is "anything left" of Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie, the N.A.O. will "sweep the remains under the rug at No Way Out." Jim Ross doesn't think so. We are shown a replay of the dumpster flying off the stage from the perspective of a camera inside the dumpster. This whole segment was quite amusing. There were some crude sex and dummy jokes, but James and Gunn (particularly James) were funnier at this than Shawn Michaels and Triple H. James had unbelievable charisma.

Jim Ross says "Austin's what?" as Raw goes to a break. Another promo for No Way Out on pay-per-view airs, again focusing on the Eight Man Tag Match main event.

Chyna and Los Boricuas are still searching for Steve Austin. Austin locks Los Boricuas in a room backstage and taunts them. Chyna is furious.

TAFKA Goldust enters with "Marvelous" Marc Mero, Luna Vachon and Sable. Mero is dressed as Marilyn Manson again. Sable plays to the crowd. Jim Ross wonders how Sable, "as nice as she is," can co-exist with the others. The Headbangers (Mosh and Thrasher) enter. Jim Ross announces that The Headbangers will face Goldust and Mero on Sunday at No Way Out. Sable waves at Thrasher, which ticks Mero off. Mero orders Sable to go backstage. There is a large Sable chant.

Thrasher (with Mosh) VS TAFKA Goldust (with "Marvelous" Marc Mero, Luna Vachon & Sable)

Goldust hits an arm drag. Thrasher replies with a hip toss. Goldust takes control with punches and an Irish whip into the corner. Thrasher catches Goldust with a back body drop, followed by a clothesline. Goldust slides out of the ring for a respite. Jim Ross hypes No Way Out. The crowd chant for Sable. Thrasher nails Goldust with a springboard reverse elbow, knocking him off the apron and onto the floor. Luna distracts the referee, allowing Mosh to cheap shot Goldust, which make no sense. Goldust low blows Thrasher and nails a big clothesline. Goldust throws Thrasher out to the floor and drops him across the guard rail. Mero and Luna cheap shot Thrasher. Back in the ring, Goldust wipes the lipstick off his lips and rubs it on Thrasher's face. Goldust hits a slam, followed by an elbow drop from the second rope. Thrasher ducks a clothesline and hits a cross body block for a two count. Goldust goes back to work with fists. Thrasher ducks another clothesline, thwarts a sunset flip, and hits a clothesline. Thrasher runs the ropes and is tripped by Luna. Sable enters again and argues with Luna. Goldust confronts Sable and gets a slap for his troubles. Thrasher cradles Goldust for the three count at around 5 minutes.

Luna pushes Sable and Sable slaps her. The crowd goes crazy. Luna cries as Goldust comforts her. Jim Ross says that this Sunday "Sable and Luna must somehow co-exist."

ANALYSIS: Mediocre action. Sable was undoubtedly the star in this one, and this was a big step towards her split with Mero. It also sets up a filler match for No Way Out. Another TV loss for Goldust. That's becoming quite the habit.*

Backstage, Chyna has rejoined Shawn Michaels and Triple H. Ross says they are on their way to the ring as Raw goes to a break.

DX enter. Michaels says that he won't wait until Sunday night to take back his WWF Championship belt. He says he will "whup" Austin's ass at No Way Out, but that Austin has what "belongs to him." Michaels says Austin wanted Michaels to come to the ring and take it back, well now Michaels "is right here and he's ready to take his gold back." Michaels says since Austin wanted Michaels to ask politely, he will. Michaels says, "get your ass out here, please," adding the "please" in a sarcastic tone.

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin enters, carrying the WWF Championship belt. Austin chases DX out of the ring, swinging the belt as a weapon. The New Age Outlaws enter. Austin keeps everyone at bay outside the ring by swinging the belt. A chainsaw noise can be heard. As Austin is concentrating on DX and the N.A.O., Chyna is able to grab the belt.

Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie cut their way up through the ring with Charlie's chainsaw.

Owen Hart enters the ring and a mini-brawl ensues between Austin, Hart, Charlie and Cactus and the N.A.O. DX flee up the entranceway. The N.A.O. eventually escape too. Michaels taunts Austin with the WWF Championship belt. Raw goes off the air with Jim Ross hyping No Way Out.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Not a bad go home show. The main event has been brought to the boil nicely, and a couple of filler matches have been added. I like that even the filler gets a little bit of TV storyline advancement, something that doesn't happen enough these days. The February pay-per-view is always a hard one to sell because everyone is hyped for WrestleMania; but I'm as about intrigued to see No Way Out as I could be.

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.