RSPWF Awards
NOTE: AGW Wrestlers and Friends of the league are in boldface type and underlined.
1996:
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THE RSPW-F 200
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Compiled by Gil Crosby
200. Joey "The Devil" Reece
199. Calversary
198. Billy "Blood" Gangrel (1/2 of the team Blood & Guts)
197. Cuban Hurricane
196. Desert Storm Matt O'Donnell
195. Jason "Guts" Gangrel (1/2 of the team Blood & Guts)
194. Super White Samurai
193. "Spartan" Troy Walters
192. Smasher (APCW)
191. Frank Enstein
190. Deathwatch (WWEW)
189. Dickson Spers (HWF)
188. Black Mage (WHCW/ AGW, 1/2 of the team Might & Magic)
187. Brutus Noir (WAR!)
186. Psychosis (UWF)
185. Holy Ghost (AEWA)
184. Jammer
183. "Darkseid" Dave Pietka
182. Maniac Sabu
181. War Machine
180. Bash
179. Mangler
178. Magic
177. Killer Kid
176. "Magnetic" Mark Starkley
175. Diminuero
174. Big Daddy Mac
173. Static Rule
172. Volcanious
171. "Destroyer" Shawn Mancubus
170. Sideshow Bob Tuwilliger (PCW, 1/2 of the team the Cripplers)
169. Beast (BWF, WWA, CWL, JWL)
168. Dimento (UWF, 1/2 of the Darknight Express)
167. Gigantor (WLW)
166. Mortician (AEWA, 1/2 of the Graveyard Shift)
165. "Hellfire" Mike Ransom (SCW)
164. Demolition (UWF, 1/2 of the Darknight Express)
163. Adonis Mercury (WWPA)
162. Grave Dweller (AEWA, 1/2 of the Graveyard Shift)
161. "Falcon" Robbie Greer (UWF, WAIWA)
160. Black Knight (WHCW, 1/2 of Might & Magic)
159. Hollowman (WICWF)
158. Fisto Flash (APCW)
157. Heartbreak Kid (IWL)
156. God (WWEW, 1/2 of Heaven & Hell)
155. "Method Man" Kurt Ryder (NFW)
154. Tundra
153. DEATH
152. American Patriot
151. Hardcore
150. Slash
149. Funklord
148. Beastie Boy
147. Prince of Darkness
146. Midnight Scorpion
145. Crimson Glory
144. Ed Salazar
143. "Ultimate Cool Dude" Log (HWL)
142. Speed Racer (WWPA)
141. Franchise (IWF, ICWF, SWO)
140. Bobby Stills (WICWF)
139. Radiation (WAIWA)
138. Rock Ramon (UWF, WAIWA)
137. Melancholy (APCW)
136. Primal Fear (AEWA)
135. Spectre
134. Hector Kane (1/2 of the 4th Reich)
133. Apollo (DWO)
132. Steve "The Slasher" Latini
131. "Cardiac Kid" Joey Valachi (AEWA, ACWF)
130. "Missouri Tiger" Matt Tiegs (NWF)
129. "Dashing" Derek Lankford (NWF)
128. Streetrat
127. "Brutal" Brett Havoc (WHCW)
126. Big Ron Raider (AEWA)
125. Steve Destiny
124. Aegis
123. Akira Hashimoto
122. Trashcan Man (WWPA)
121. Tonnage
120. Damien Legend
119. "Lucky Man" Dylan Dice
118. Southern Man
117. Rick Showboat (AEWA)
116. Bad Boy Randy Acorn (IIWF, UWF)
115. Mondo, (WWPA, one of the Raving Psychos)
114. Mucho (WWPA, one of the Raving Psychos)
113. Brody Thunder (IIWF)
112. Retribution
111. Rob Cole
110. Nightshade (WWEW, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse)
109. Doug Bacon
108. Beelzebub (WWEW, 1/2 of Heaven & Hell)
107. Slam (IWL)
106. Fenix (WICWF)
105. Thantos (IWL)
104. FREEK
103. Bobby Ransom (SCW)
102. "The Enigma" Takezo Musashi (IIWF, UWF)
101. Canadian Savage
100. Sick Rick
99. Rick Styles (UEW)
98. Otto Verhoeven (IIWF, NFW)
97. Mr. Deadly
96. "The Outlaw" J.W. Hardin
95. "The Ace" Alex Porteaux (NFW, 1/2 of Damage, Inc.)
94. "Mad Dog" Eddy Ramos (NFW, 1/2 of Damage, Inc.)
93. "Bad Boy" Shawn Austin
92. Vindicator (IWL)
91. Volcano Jackson (ACEW)
90. Nova Storm (WICWF)
89. Brian Maloney (UWF)
88. Mr. Deadly
87. Kelly Maloney (UWF)
86. Fang
85. Chris Cage (IWL)
84. Professor Nickedemus Payne
83. Mr. Juan-A-Bee (aka Don Juan-A-Bee)
82. "Devastator" Mick Morton
81. The Man From Heck
80. Sabin Rene Figaro
79. John Jennings
78. Journeyman (WICWF)
77. Sudden Death (WWPA)
76. "Sinister" Mark Rack
75. Caleb Temple (EWA)
74. Zodiac
73. Big G
72. Angel of Death
71. Brett Greene (UWF "Oh, the Humanity!")
70. Doomsday (WHCW)
69. Mastedon
68. Lord of Hardcore (ASWF)
67. Fallen Angel (NCW)
66. Acey Mack
65. Destroyer (1/2 of Destruction, Inc.)
64. Pugslee the Pug (IWL)
63. "Jackhammer" J.P. Steele
62. Mr. Bungle
61. The Extremist (EWA)
60. Tyler Steele
59. Osami Karelin
58. HICAL
57. The Gangsta
56. Wild Thing (SWF)
55. Destruction (IWL)
54. Marc Destructo (NFW)
53. Tom Landis (UWF - Don't call him Maverick!)
52. Billy Shakespeare (IIWF)
51. "The Executioner" Mark Engels (NFW)
50. Mysterioso (EIW)
49. Apocalypse (WWPA, WHCW)
48. Cardinal Chaos (AEWA, 1/2 of the second Heaven & Hell team
on
the survey)
47. Thor Maelstrom (WWPA)
46. Alex Kidd (UWF)
45. Hollywood (EWA)
44. Nosferatu (IWL)
43. Fuse (WWEW)
42. Deathbringer (IIWF)
41. "Jumbo" Jim Mongol
40. Assaf "The Terminator" Levavy
39. Rick Wright
38. Prophet (PCW)
37. Steven "The Edge" Spector
36. "Rude" Craig Jayhawk
35. Jimmy Cougar
34. Mr. Crowley (AEWA, 1/2 of the AEWA's Heaven & Hell)
33. Avalanche (IWL)
32. Youth Gone Wild (UWF)
31. King James (WWPA)
30. Tommy Van Dam
29. Heavy Metal (AEWA)
28. Jason Starr (NIWF)
27. "Strangler" Shawn Osborne
26. Lawrence Buffy
25. "Nature Boy" Todd Newkirk (NFW) - Held a world title with the FWLI,
and has played both faces and heels. Semi-active right now, but
when active, he's one of the best.
24. Arnold Hamenegger (EWA) - 1/2 of the Good Knights, the highest rated
tag team by far on the list. This team started out as jobbers, and
was able to raise all the way to the EWA World Tag Titles.
23. Drac "The Raven" Dravin (EWA) - Justice and justice alone drives
this man, and it has driven him to the EWA Television Title, and the
DPW Central Valley Title. Many people see a world belt in his
future.
22. "Crimson" Joe Reed (AEWA, UWF) - A true veteran of the sport, Reed
has held world titles with the PWF and FWL, and is now targeting
gold in the AEWA and the UWF. Recently nominated for the RSPWF Hall
of Fame.
21. Nightmare (WWPA) - Has held the IWA North American Title, and while
in the ASWF, held pretty much every title around. A dominant member
of a large e-wrestling alliance of feds.
20. Zack "The Attack" Malone - If the degree of hatred inspired is a
measure of a heel's success, then Zack Malone has been VERY
successful. This former FoPEW Canadian Champ is a founding member of
the Body Shop.
19. Supersonic - Possibly the most prolific member of the top 25,
Supersonic has held nearly 30 titles in 40 feds, yet still found the
time to make enough of an impact to rank this high.
18. Brewster Cogburn - A charter member of the RSPWF Hall of Fame, this
veteran currently resides in the UWF, where he enjoys teaching the
younger wrestlers the difference between "veteran" and "old." Held
the UWF World Title earlier this year.
17. "Superstar" Steve Sampson - A well traveled title holder, Sampson
has held gold pretty much everywhere he's been. He's still
searching, however, for a title that compares to the "Superstars
Belt."
16. Jerry Joblonsky (EWA) - The other half of the Good Knights prefers
this name (his "real" name?) to Sir Jobs-a-Lot, the name with which
he won the EWA Tag Team Titles, and held them for a sizable chunk of
1996.
15. "Iceman" Brian Knight - This mega-heel is the leader of the Awesome
Alliance, a task that has not kept him too busy to win a lot of
gold, and participate in a huge feud with Chris Taylor. Former FWLI
European champion as well as NCW and FoPEW World Champion.
14. Christian Kingsworth - Not much was said about Christian Kingsworth,
but a lot of people found room for him on their ballots. Kingsworth
is one of the leaders of the new generation of e-wrestlers, who will
be expected to seize the headlines in 1997.
13. Chris Deugau - RSPWF Award Winner for the Best Technical Wrestler
of
1996, and don't you forget it! This charter member of the
Annihilation Corporation has won titles in several organizations.
While you may be more familiar with him as Dean Chris Deugau, he
dropped the Dean earlier this year. He does, however, still give
wrestling lessons.
12. "Bad Boy" Mark Bagwell - The third and final "Bad Boy" is none other
* than Bagwell, one of the best-known wrestlers out there. With
nearly two dozen titles, and a wealth of enemies to his credit,
Bagwell is a member of the famous "Body Shop" stable, renowned for
its ability to win matches, and draw heat.
11. Serge Annis - Alex Kidd, Youth Gone Wild, and Tom Landis can debate
all they want about who the UWF's "Franchise" is. It's Serge Annis.
"The Epitome of Evil" was the first UWF Champion, and was nominated
an amazing three times for RSPWF's Best Feud award, with three
different opponents. Serge's winning personality recently debuted
in the IIWF, and we're sure they'll love him just as much as the UWF
does. I do not, however, envy anything flammable that gets in his
way when he learns he just missed the top 10.
10. "Hot Stuff" Chris Taylor - Taylor has been another one of the
sport's mainstays over the past year, and has battled the best in
the game. If titles are any indication, he's won most of the time.
Taylor has claimed World Titles in RSPCW, FoPEW, and NCW. One of
the best, and a likely Hall of Fame inductee in the future.
9. Bishop - Arguably the biggest independent superstar on the market
today, Bishop won the first ever World Cup of e-Wrestling, coming out
on top of 64 great competitors. He has also held the SOWF World
Title, and has made a name for himself across the e-wrestling world.
Now in the UWF, he shares space with Serge Annis, with whom he has
had a violent feud, and now, an uneasy alliance.
8. "Quickstrike" Chris Quigley - To Quigley goes the honor of being
the
final opponent for Dan Kauffman, who probably could have brought in
any opponent he wanted. Still, one is hard pressed to deny that
Quigley deserves to be singled out. Popular with the fans
everywhere, Quickstrike has held the TAEWF World Title, among others.
Quigley is a likely candidate to add the IIWF World Title in the
coming year.
7. Robski - This well traveled British import is renowned for his always
entertaining tales, and extensive winning history. Held the UEW
Television title for a sizable chunk of 1996, and boasts possibly the
widest appeal among the whole e-wrestling circuit, given the number
of people who voted for him.
6. Super Scott - Razor Ramon once said "I don't care if they love me
or
hate me. But I do demand that everybody watch me." That statement
clearly applies to Super Scott, who may generate more heat than
anyone before or since. Once a holder of the EWA North American
Title, Super Scott's mere presence is enough to throw any crowd into
a frenzy.
5. "Dreamlover" Trey Porter - No e-wrestling comeback was more welcome
than Porter's. This former FoPEW US, Light-Heavyweight, and US tag
champ also won the EWA Triple Crown, and is currently nominated for
the RSPWF Hall of Fame. Porter is, quite simply, one of e-wrestlings
living legends, and arguably the most famous e-wrestler around. Just
ask Trace Michaels.
4. Dan "Flash" Kauffman - The only comeback that could rival Porter's
would be Kauffman, if he chooses to return from his retirement. This
former IIWF World Champion will say goodbye to the sport at IIWF's
Ring Wars III, against "Quickstrike" Chris Quigley, in what has to
be
the early favorite for 1997 Match of the Year. Kauffman made a
stunning heel turn recently, but couldn't stay that way for long, and
is already regaining the overwhelming popularity he's used to
enjoying.
3. "Offensive" Alex Adams - The nickname alone should tell you how much
fun it is to be the target of an Adams diatribe. Adams quickly
proved his ability to play with the big boys, rising to the upper
echelons of the sport in a very brief period of time. Along the way,
the Offensive won claimed the UEW Ultimate Title, and the EWA World
Title on more than one occasion. Adams' most recent major win, a
World Title match with Gunnar Gaines.
2. Dark Destroyer - According the EWA Web page, Dark Destroyer recently
lost a career match. If he's really gone for good, the sport has
lost another major superstar, who truly came into his own over time.
Along the way, Destroyer made his mark in several places, including
FASW, PCW (where he held the World Title recently), and the EWA,
where he won the World Title an amazing four times. He may be gone,
but Destroyer's the kind of guy who has the ability to come back from
anything, so it would be unwise to write him off just yet.
1. Gunnar "Grizzly" Gaines - Congratulations are in order to one
Lawrence Gunnar Gaines, known as "Grizzly" to anyone who doesn't want
to receive a savage beating. Don't get me wrong, the fans love him,
and think of him as a big teddy bear. A teddy bear who will Grizzly
Slam you to China if he thinks you've got it coming. The
overwhelming respect Gaines commands is apparent in the fact that
nearly everyone who voted for him ranked him either first or second
on their ballots. It's respect well earned, as Gaines dominated the
EWA over the latter portion of 1996, winning and holding the EWA
title until very recently. The controversy surrounding his title
loss unfortunately convinced Gaines to say farewell to the EWA, at
least for the time being. However, a wrestler of Gaines' talent and
stature won't stay unemployed long, and rumors of his arrival have
permeated other organizations. However, with or without an
organization to wrestle in, the voters have chosen Gaines as the top
man in the sport for 1996. Once again, congratulations.
1997:
200. "Breakfast" Bobby Toast (NPWA)
199. Taifun (WWW/AAPW)
198. "The Dreamer" Randy Sheridan (NEWA, CWAA)
197. Mike Marconi (WWO, EEW, UCWF)
196. "Golden Boy" Johnny Smith (GASW)
195. Heartbreaker (EIW)
194, Black Venom (EWA)
193. Tower of Power (SCWF, EHWF, EWF)
192. Paradox (EWA, MLWO)
191. "Nu Warrior" Rob Magnum (UEW)
190. Lord Awesome (ASW)
189. Professor Nickedemus Payne (UEW) #84
188. Hartbreaker (EIW)
187. GQ Geoffrey Quartz (CCW)
186. Tommy Van Dam (KMW) #30
185 Boltz (many)
184. Deliverance (GIWF) #196
183. Az (USX)
182. Brian Meyer (SOW)
181. Super Scott #6
180. Masher Maccabee (CWO)
179. Chris "The Hitman" Thomas (IFWF)
178. Thesuis "The Bod" Devlin (GIWF)
177. Justice Jackson (GIWF)
176. "Demon" Damien Lestat (NWLP, MPWA, AAPW)
175. Mike "The Mechanic" Malone
174. Renegade (WHCW)
173. Fire Phoenix (Many)
172. Plague (WeW, CWF, IWF)
171. Patrick Bordeaux (GEWA)
170. Jared "Great One" Ghalliger (EWF)
169. Patty Babes Carter (SOW, SJPW, HCW, WIWO)
168. Captain Booze (NeCW)
167. Jason "The Crusher" Chandler (WOW, IWF)
166. Colossus (WHCW)
165. Lord Nikkon
164. Bartman (GIW)
163. Devastaing Don (CIA)
162. John 3:16
161. Professor Frank N. Furter
160. Rude Dude (NEFW)
159. "Normal" Klaus Lehman (EEF)
158. Oz (IWF, WeW)
157. Stan Cremins (MWWF)
156. Overgiver (AAPW)
155. Lobo (FWA)
154. Rob Osbourne
153. "Swinging" Chandler Stone (AICW)
152. Jessee "The Sniper" Williams
151. "Diamondback" Chris Myers
150. Chris Deugau. #13
149. The Crow (AAPW)
148. Duncan Macbeth (IIWF)
147. Samael (GIW, USX, BBW)
146. "Gentleman" Jack Butler
145. Jet Mini (IIWA, NCWA, OWA)
144. Cardiac (EEMWF)
143. Mr. Bungle (SOW) #62
142. Tiger Claw (IIWF, NLWP, LWC)
141. Wardancer (USX, GIW, AeWF)
140. Mr. Cherry (INWI)
139. Assaf "The Terminator" Levavy (SOW, NEW,APWF) #40
138. "Bad Boy" Mark Bagwell #12
137. Timothy N. Turner (IIWF)
136. Black Mage (AGW) #188
135. Marty Warnett (IIWF)
134. Violator (SWL)
133. Lancer (FWA, ISWA)
132. Marc Thomas (AEWA, CWAA)
131. Dark Bishop (EFW, ASW)
130. Pheerless1 (GWO, IWF)
129. "Playboy" Ricky Lopez (ICW)
128. Joe Eagle (CWO)
127. Medusa Rage (First and only woman wrestler on the list.)
126. Mondo Somatic (NeWF, APW)
125. Cold Front (TWF, EFW, PHWA, XWF)
124. Xavier Lee Jackson (NPWA, GFWA, NLWA, UWF)
123. "Mr Pain" Jack Michaels (NeCW)
122. Eric Draven (ASW, WWO)
121. "Heartbreaker" Matt Foxx
120. Tornado Warrior
119. Tazz (EWF, WeCW)
118. "Darkseid" Dave Pietka #183
117. "Hollywood Heartthrob" Dave Diamond (NPWA, TCW, SAW)
116. Abnormal Behavior (BBW, IIWA, OWA)
115. Brandon Charm
114. Phantom (NOW)
113. Scott "Hotspot" Daniels (UWF)
112. "Dreamlover" Trey Porter (TAEWF) #5
111. Sebastian Jericho (UWF)
110. "Redneck Champion" Bill Bob Woijicowski (INWI, NEW)
109. "Technician" Zack Sharp (NLWP, MFW)
108. Red Rose Disaster (OWA, BBW)
107. Doc Toxic (TCW)
106. "Tiger" Tong Po (NLWP)
105. "King of Desire" Ray Kinge (NCW)
104. Kodiak (XWF, EWA)
103. Tommy Nightmare (BGW, EWL, EHW)
102. Rage (WeW, HCW, IWF)
101. Suicide (UCWF, EFW, TWF)
100. Jean-Pierre Vachon (IFWF)
99. Striker Shirak (GEWA, LAW)
98. Fallen Angel (AAPW, WWW)
97. "Ice Cold" Joe Williams
96. "Vindicator" Vinny Vitrone (NEW)
95. "Death Sentence" David Stevens (GIWF)
94. Mr. Excellence (SWL)
93. Brass Knuckles (OCW, NEW)
92. "Hardcore" Harley Robinson (SWL, EWL)
91. Chris Douglas
90. Johnny Reb (CWO)
89. Kain (NeCW)
88. "The Professional" Max Robertson (CWAA, NEWA)
87. Holocaust (EEMWF, AGW)
86. Dark Rogue (AGW)
85. Dr. Melancholy (APW)
84. Retribution (GEWA, UEW, BACW) #112
83. Lightning (UEWA, COWA, NLWA, PHWA)
82. "Lucky Man" Dylan Dice (WIWO, NLWF, SOW) #119
81. Roland Ulv
80. Valtherius the Mad (TCW, GEWA, NPWA, NLWP)
79. Dallas Reed (LWC, IEWA, NLWP)
78. "Spotlight" Billy Shakespeare (IIWF) #52
77. Survival (WAR!)
76. Jedah the Damned (IWF, WOW)
75 Dr. Hate (GEWA)
74. Knick Man (ASW)
73. Dark Destroyer (EWA) #2
72. Lake Shore Strangler (EWF, WeCW, CIA)
71. "Dirt Dog" Unique Allah (IIWF)
70. Eddie Jacobs (NEW)
69. Jack Strange (NeCW)
68. Blackline (SJPW, SCW)
67. "Kodiak" Dan Harris (NEW)
66. Lord Robert D'Artois (IWF)
65. Sam "The Minuteman" Adams (INWI)
64. Derek Mota (IIWF)
63. "Desire" Brandon Bloom (NEW)
62. Kid Nitro (WHCW, EEMWF)
61. Doomsday (WHCW)
60. Christopher Stonebreaker (SCW, IIWF)
59. Don Cameron (EIW)
58. Andrew "Flash" Tucker (EWF, WeCW, CIA)
57. "Jumbo" Jim Mongol (MLWO, GFWP) #41
56. "Vile" Vince Viper (HCW, SOW)
55. "Franchise" Andru Edwards (FWF)
54. Brett Greene (UWF) #71
53. "Too Excess" Rick Williams (NLWP, TCW)
52. Scimitar (NeCW)
51. Super Tengu (SJPW)
50. Nik Nyce (SJPW, TCW, AWA)
49. Mister Meaner (EWL)
48. Impaler (EWF, UCWF, TWF)
47. "Dashing" Derek Lankford (AAPW, WWW) #129
46. Jack Mason (EIW, OLWF, INW)
45. Speed Racer (WHCW, EEMWF) #142
44. Derrick DaMann
43. "Cardiac Kid" Joey Valachi (AEWA, UWF) #131
42. Mr. Ed Rogers (INWI)
41. "Superstar" Steve Sampson (NPWA) #17
40. Tige' (SGWF, TWO)
39. Alex Reaver (GFWA)
38. Steve "The Fury" Kowalski (IIWF)
37. Marcus Renge (MLWO)
36. James "Simply the Best" Pillow (INWI, NEW, AAPW)
35. "Showstopper" Simon Lebec (Many)
34. "Blackheart" Brian Masters (NPWA)
33. Brad Vandal (GIWF)
32. "Playboy" Ronnie D
31. Lord Byron (IIWF)
30. Tex Violence (LWC)
29. Hades (EWF, UCWF, TWF)
28. Captain Midnight (DPW, PCW, MLWO)
27. Serge Annis (UWF, IIWF) #11
26. "Too Cool" Chris Hopper (NeCW)
25. "The Executioner" Mark Engel (IFWF) - #51 in the 1996 RSPWF 200.
The Executioner spent 1997 as the man to beat in the IFWF, holding
the World Title for the majority of 1997, and doing a stint as one
half of the International Tag Team champs. With e-wrestling legend
Brian Knight on the horizon, Engel isn't done making headlines yet.
24. Jak Martin (MLWO) - The first man to win the MLWO Triple Crown
(World, US, and North American Titles), Martin has also MLWO World
Champion on two other occasions. With Steve Sampson and Marcus
Renge among his victories, Jak Martin is staking his claim as the
MLWO's franchise player.
23. "Quickstrike" Chris Quigley (IIWF) - #8 in the 1996 RSPWF 200,
Quigley sent Dan Kauffman into retirement with a loss at IIWF Ring
Wars III, then recovered from a tough stretch to capture the IIWF
Intercontinental belt, which he currently holds. One of the last
true faces left in the IIWF, Quigley is even more of a target now
that he's a champion again. Look for Quigley to be at the center
of
many of the IIWF hottest angles.
22. "Crimson" Joe Reed (AEWA, UWF) - #22 in the 1996 RSPWF 200. One
of
only five men to crack the top 25 two years in a row, Reed had
another spectacular year, spending most of 1997 as the AEWA World
Champion, and holding the UWF belt for a while. Reed pulled off
an
amazing balancing act, simultaneously the most popular man in the
AEWA, and the most despised in the UWF. Look for more headlines
from Reed, if he doesn't get surpassed by his manager.
21. Steven "The Edge" Spector (MLWO, EWA) - #37 in the 1996 RSPWF 200.
A well recognized name wherever he goes, The Edge continues to
perform at a high level, adding the MLWO World Title to a list of
belts in the EWA and MLWO. Recently scored a huge win over Marcus
Renge.
20. Alex Kidd (UWF) - #46 in the 1996 RSPWF 200. 1997 was a breakout
year for the UWF's most consistent and durable face. Two UWF
World
title reigns cemented his status as the UWF standard bearer, as well
as tough feuds with Brett Greene's Pride and Crimson Joe Reed.
The
leader of Legion, Kidd is one of the most popular wrestlers around,
and fast on his way to becoming a household name.
19. Dan Kauffman - #4 in the 1996 RSPWF 200. First, let me just
say,
retired, schmetired. Kauffman sailed nobly into retirement after
his classic bout with Quigley, and sailed right back out of
retirement just a few short months later. Successful stints in
SJPW
and his old IIWF, as well as the sheer respect and name recognition
this legend commands, keep Dan Kauffman among the games elite, where
he will probably until he really retires. A definite lock for
the
RSPWF Hall of Fame.
18. Jeff "Madfox" Matthews (MLWO, EWA, PCW, UEW, SOW) - Excelling in
multiple leagues, especially leagues of the caliber of the ones
Matthews is in, is a pretty tall order, and the Madfox turned in an
impressive year doing just that. A lengthy stint at UEW American
champion, coupled with a reputation as one of the hardest workers
out there, puts Matthews among the elite for 1997.
17. "Miracle Man" Tyler Smythe (GIWF, AAPW) - Also known as the "80's
Man," for those of us who long for the days of Rick Springfield.
Smythe held the AAPW Atlantic title on a couple of occasions, and
currently reigns as the GIWF's United States Champion. Dominated a
feud with Steve "The Slasher" Latini, and formed the Trifecta in
AAPW with Wayne Hanson and the Overgiver. A man of multiple
nicknames, and even more victories and titles.
16. Mr. Robinson (MLWO, DPW) What can you say about a man who
made it
through the year undefeated? So far, Robinson's official record
is
32 wins, no losses, no draws. Robinson has held the DPW CV Title,
and participated in a match of the year candidate, teaming with
Super Scott to face Dark Destroyer and "Dreamlover" Trey Porter.
If
I were a betting man, I'd be Robinson's team won. So, here's
to
you, Mr. Robinson, heaven holds a place for those who pray.
Hey-hey-hey. (Sorry, couldn't resist.)
15. Requiem (IIWF, MLWO) - The IIWF met its future in Requiem, and the
IIWF didn't like it one little bit. The upstart stunned the IIWF
establishment by claiming the IIWF World Title with the aid of
Genesis, then showed what he was made of by leaving the group to
defend the title on his own. Definitely not typical heel behavior.
A violent feud with Otto Verhoeven has cemented Requiem's status
among the e-wrestling elite.
14. "Bullywug" Glenn Hudson (GIWF, LRPW, XWC, AEWA) - OK, I still
don't
know what a "Bullywug" is, but everyone knows that Glenn Hudson is
one of the premier performers in the game today. Former XWC
Champion, LRPW Cruiserweight Champion, and AEWA TV Champion, among
others, though he has yet to win gold in the GIWF, concentrating
instead on his feud with "Substance" Chad O'Donnell. The Bullywug
is as prolific as he is talented.
13. King Apples (INWI, NEW) - Formely known as Mr. Apples. An
odd
moniker to be sure, but the man delivers. Co-founder of the
Brotherhood, Apples claimed the NEW World title with a win over
Brandon Bloom, and can claim wins over James Pillow and Kodiak Dan
Harris as well as stints as the INWI TV and Northeast Champion.
One
voter said Apples would likely be underrated. That is assuredly
not
the case with the 1997 he had.
12. "Cold and Calculating" Tony Houston (INWI, NEW) - The other
co-founder of the Brotherhood also answers to the "Ringmaster,"
courtesy of his win in the Ringmaster tournament. Houston, who
leads the Brotherhood, has held the INWI World and TV Titles, and
the Intercontinental and North American Titles in NEW, although he
was recently stripped of both belts, which may be the only way to
take a title from this guy.
11. Creed (IIWF) - The red-gloved rookie is now the one-eyed rookie,
courtesy of a barbed wire match with Serge Annis that cut short an
IIWF career that took off like a rocket. A sensational feud with
Lord Byron brought Creed the IIWF Intercontinental Title, and
allowed Creed to run Byron out of the IIWF. Despite what may
be
said about the candle that burns twice as bright burning only half
as long, we have almost certainly NOT seen the last of Creed.
Goodnight...Farewell...Amen.
10. Matt Harris (MLWO, DPW, EWA, PCW) - Won three different World
titles this year, in the MLWO, DPW, and PCW. He's also held the
TV
Title in PCW and the North American title in MLWO. A key player
in
the rise of the MLWO, Harris is also one of the few to hold a
victory over legend Caleb Temple.
9. Otto "The Butcher" Verhoeven (IIWF, MLWO) - #98 in the 1996 RSPWF
200. The Butcher held the IIWF World Title in 1996...and made
a
bigger impact this year. A perennial top contender to the IIWF
belt,
Verhoeven has concentrated on taking care of his enemies this year,
engaging in a violent feud with Requiem in the IIWF and MLWO, and
spoiling the return of his former ally Lord Byron. Look for the
Butcher to wreak havoc, and possibly reclaim the IIWF title, very
soon.
8. Bishop (LWC, IEWF, UWF) - #9 in the 1996 RSPWF 200. Given the
standard Bishop set for himself last year, it would have been
understandable if Bishop slumped in 1997. He didn't. A
big man in
smaller feds last year, Bishop is wrestling with the big boys this
year, and beating them. He claimed the IEWF title, and long-brewing
hostilities with Serge Annis finally exploded in the UWF, sparking
one of e-wrestling's most anticipated feuds. Bishop has claimed
his
place at the table, and he's not going anywhere.
7. "The Outlaw" J.W. Hardin (IIWF) - #75 in the 1996 RSPWF 200.
Between Hardin and Kauffman, I'm starting to think I should retire.
The IIWF's first champion and charter member of its Hall of Fame
returned in huge fashion, brutalizing opponents and ending careers,
leading to his huge match with Brody Thunder in Ring Wars IV.
The
victim of a stunning triple cross, Hardin is back in the IIWF with
a
vengeance, with his sights firmly set on Thunder. Look for more
explosions to come.
6. Caleb Temple (EWA, MLWO, GFWA) - #75 in the 1996 RSPWF 200.
Most of
his 1996 ballots listed Temple as a "rising star." Good call.
Temple went nowhere but up over the first part of 1997, holding the
EWA TV Title longer than anyone else in the history of that
prestigious league, won the MLWO Hardcore title, and also claimed the
EWA World belt, which he held for a considerable reign. However,
in
September, Temple disappeared, and hasn't been heard from since.
Does anyone else see an explosion waiting to happen?
5. Casey "Blackheart" James (IIWF) - At the time of the 1996 RSPWF 200,
Casey James was the IIWF World Champion...and unranked. No chance
of
that this year, as James held the IIWF world title longer than any
other man, beating Kauffman, Quigley, and Verhoeven among others.
James then teamed with Tiger Claw to claim the IIWF Tag Team Belts
before his shocking resignation from the IIWF. Even if James
does
not return, his mark on the IIWF, and his role in its ascention, will
not be erased easily... if ever.
4. Gunnar "Grizzly" Gaines (EWA) - Last year's #1 man, and only he and
Bishop can claim to have made the top 10 two years running. Gaines
could be forgiven for dropping off, but he hasn't. The master
of
the Grizzly Slam, the Alaskan Death Match, and the world's leading
spokesman for wood grain alcohol had a quiet first half of 1997, but
returned with a vengeance to end the winning streak of the seemingly
invincible Shawn Adams, and reclaim the EWA World Title over the Dark
Destroyer at Halloween Hell II. Another guy who can go into the
Hall
of Fame any time now.
3. "Sychosis" Joe Petrow (IIWF, NLWP) - Sanity is clearly overrated,
because Petrow had an amazing 1997 without much of a grip on
reality. Though he did win the IIWF Cruiserweight belt, he came
up
short in a bid to win the IIWF World Title, although if you ask him,
he probably thinks he did, and if he's surrounded by his "Sychopaths"
I certainly don't plan to question him. Also leader of Team Sychosis
with Majestic Maurice McArthur, Petrow has surfaced in NLWP as the
"Dark Saviour." If he can stay out of a mental hospital, he can
certainly stay on top.
2. "Superstar" Shawn Adams (EWA, GFWA) - Formerly a member of Bigger
Than Hollywood, which only finished #4 on the RSPWF Tag Team 200,
Adams struck gold as a singles wrestler, to lay claim to being one
of
the brightest stars in the EWA and GWFA this year. Took
part in a
memorable feud with Alex Reaver, held the GFWA World belt, and held
the GFWA Northeastern belt longer than anyone. Won the EWA tag
belts, and added the North American and Television titles while
racking up a 24 match winning streak that it took no less a star than
Gunnar Gaines to end. Even at his current lofty position, Adams
still has room to climb, and the ability to do it.
1. "Lone Wolf" Brody Thunder (IIWF, NLWP, INWI, LWC) - #113 in the 1996
RSPWF 200. Wow. This was a landslide, and I do mean LANDSLIDE.
Thunder almost won the IIWF World Title from James, but controversy
forced the title to be held up. No problem, Thunder simply relieved
Requiem of it of few months later, then promptly turned his back on
his mentor, J.W. Hardin. Even more amazing? Thunder got
away with
it, scoring a huge win over Hardin at Ring Wars IV. Thunder's
next
challenge? Steve "The Fury" Kowalski looms large, and I doubt
Hardin
considers matters closed between he and Thunder. After that,
well...pretty
much everyone, as Thunder has distanced himself from everyone in the
IIWF,
and everyone wants a piece of him. If they didn't then, they
will now. Thunder
didn't stop there, holding the INWI Northeast
and TV belts, only losing them when he was forced to give them up...
because he won the INWI World Title. Brody Thunder, #1 with a
bullet. OK, #1 with a Cattle Buster. Congratulations, Brody.
You
earned it.
1998:
200. "Iceman" Josh Cagle (PFW)
199. Tex Violence (LWC)
198. Trey Lawrenze (CWLA, SCCW, PCWF)
197. Super Tengu (SJPW)
196. Jimmy Dangerous (AEWA, UWF)
195. Wuzho (IWF/WOW, WWO)
194. "The Dynasty" Shane Adams
193. "8-Ball" Vic Garibaldi (AICW)
192. Brass Knuckles (NEW)
191. Brolly (AGW)
190. Daddy (CLWA)
189. "The Greatest Ever" Shawn Walsh (EWC)
188. Andrew Awesome (FWF)
187. Nytro (NWWA, DWF, XWF, HMCW)
186. Dr. Melancholy (NEFW)
185. Elijah Taylor (EWA)
184. "Mr. America" Alex Wallace (LWC)
183. Johnny Nightmare (ACW, EWA, GWA)
182. "Quicksilver" Chris Campanella (NEWA, APWA)
181. "Malibu" Mike Donovan (CNWF, HWF, DPW)
180. Jeff "Glacierice" Drake (ICWF, INWI)
179. Mystikal (JPW, CNWL)
178. Duncan MacBeth (IIWF, SCRA)
177. "To Excess" Rick Williams (IIWF, SCRA)
176. Youth Gone Wild (UWF, EMWC)
175. "Vile" Vince Viper (UWA)
174. Robby Blaze (HWA, IWC)
173. Hunter Sabunai (GCW)
172. Nightblade (WOLF)
171. "The Fixxer" John Jakes (FWF, EGW)
170. "Wildcat" Jim Lewis, Jr. (AeWF, NeCW)
169. "VIP" Eddie Zam (MWA)
168. Smooth Operator (AGW, NEWF)
167. Joshner the Barbarian (EAW, SEWF)
166. Derek Douglas(IWC, NEW, HHWO)
165. "Dreamlover" Trey Porter (EMWC)
164. Al Robertson (LWC, UEW)
163. "The Great One" Anthony Gold (CNWL)
162. "Quickstrike" Chris Quigley (EMWC)
161. Scott "Big Daddy" Stevens (UCWF)
160. Richard Anderson (POW, AWMC)
159. Crypt Keeper (NECW, EuLW)
158. Reverend White (NPWA)
157. Post (EWA, PFW)
156. D. T. Richman (IIWA, NAWA, NPWA)
155. "Hardline' Byron Brady (AICW)
154. Marcus Nyghtwulf (INWI, NEW, ICW, IWC)
153. Luc Stevens (FWF)
152. Victor "Big Hurt" Manson (MWA)
151. Steve Houston (RWF)
150. Banshee (G-Pro, SJPW)
149. "Sensational" Frankie Starz (WWO)
148. Thanatos (PWF, ACWF, ICWF)
147. Trixxter (IWC, UEW)
146. Frazier Fury (G-Pro)
145. Tommy Rifles (MVW, EWC)
144. Jack McMad (ACW, AEWF)
143. War Dog (ACWF)
142. "Trillionaire" Thad Thornton (DPW)
141. Luke Van Damm (NEWC, EuLW)
140. J'ster (UEW)
139. Joey Rappoport (SJPW, NCW, POW)
138. EVIL (ACWF, NEW)
137. Hiroyoshi Takada (UCW, CWLA, SJPW)
136. "The Diamond Girl" Heidi Leick (EFW)
135. "Predator" Paul Gamble (MWA)
134. Kashan Akuma (G-Pro)
133. Steve "The Fury" Kowalski (IIWF)
132. Hades (UCWF)
131. Jimmy "Studmuffin" Ciccone (HWA)
130. "Godly" Ken Davison (UWWA, NWF, JPW, DPW)
129. Pretty Boy Andrew (FWF, ASW)
128. Suicide (UCWF, TWF)
127. Dr. Hate (CWLA, UCW, GEWA)
126. Gorilla (NeCW, AeWF, HOW)
125. "Crazy" Chris Hurt (AEWA)
124. "The Demon" Damien Lestat (NPWA, IIWA)
123. Nicky DeNiro (AICW)
122. Jason Storm (G-Pro, IEWA, AEWF)
121. Brandon "The Punisher" Simpson (GCW)
120. D.B. Bugg (ICW, RWF)
119. Retribution (AWMC, POW)
118. Jo-Jo the Indian Circus Boy (EWC)
117. Fang (POW, AWMC)
116. TORA Wanizame (NaWF, G-Pro)
115. "Extreme Warrior" War Child (BWF, FWF)
114. "The Enigma" Takezo Musashi (IIWF, SJPW)
113. Alex Star (DWF, EEMWF, AGW, NEWF)
112. "Disciple" Eric Wayne (AICW, EMWC)
111. Fury (WWO)
110. "Hollywood Heartthrob" Dave Diamond (NPWA, GLCW)
109. Soul Shadow (NWC)
108. Shawn Parker (WWW, GLW, APWA)
107. "Big Dog" Justin Russell (GWC, XCA)
106. Juventil Infierno (EMWC)
105. "Rolemodel" Paul Styles (AWMC)
104. "Heartbreaker" Steve Wallace (IEWC)
103. Nekretaal (IWF, XEWA)
102. Vik Avatar (UCWF)
101. Gino Valentini (AICW)
100. "El Diablo' Eddie Deegan (INWI)
99. Terminator X (EPW, SCCW/NWC)
98. "Moronic" Joshua Lee (SCCW)
97. Impaler (EFW, UCWF, TWF)
96. Tyrone Parker (NEW, CNWL)
95. "Bullywug" Glenn Hudson (LWC, GPWA)
94. King Snake (TOP)
93. "Blood Angel" Simon Ezra (EMWC)
92. Westside Walavan (ICW, WWO, ASW, FWF)
91. Richard "Moxy" Blue (SCRA, EMWC)
90. Rocky Storm (SCCW/NWC, JAW)
89. "Hardcore Revolutionary" Mark Paris (AGW)
88. "Swinging" Chandler Stone (AICW)
87. Dread Saxon (NWC)
86. "Headliner" Scott Wright (HHWO, NEW, INWI, EWC)
85. Jedah Takikite (DWI, APWA, IWF/WOW)
84. "Screaming Drillbit" Jason Keenig (NEW)
83. Da Yellow Guy (many)
82. Caleb Temple (IIWF, MLWO)
81. "Dominator" Don Cameron (NCCW)
80.Fire Phoenix (UCWF, TWF)
79. Kid Nitro (EEMWF, AGW)
78. "Incredible" Idol Austin (NWC)
77. "The Franchise" Andru Edwards (FWF)
76. "Homeless" Joe Boxcar (INWI, HHWO)
75. Anthony Christopher Edwards (many)
74. Speed Racer (NEWF, EEMWF, AGW)
73. "Badboy" Randy Acorn (EWC, IEWC, UWF)
72. "Iceman" Trevor Fitzroy (DXWF, EFW, EWO, IEWF)
71. Jerrad Crush (ACW)
70. Tommy "Lord" Lionheart (ICW)
69. Shane Diamond (ICW)
68. "Kamikaze" Kyle Klepan (INWI, EWO, HWA)
67. Ian Walsh (IIWA)
66. Fang (MVW, EWC, LAW, GCW, HHWO)
65. "Armitrage" Steven Spector (LWC, EMWC, MLWO)
64. Gregory Brians (UCWF, TWF)
63. Valtharius the Mad (NPWA, TCW, SCRA, IIWF)
62. Setzer Van Stryfe (SCRA)
61. Doc Toxic (NPWA, TCW)
60. Alex Martinez (UEW, MWF)
59. Kuwasi "Blackfist" Shakur (UCW, CWLA, AMWC, NEWA)
58. Tony Paseno (ICW)
57. Slick Style (NaWF, WPCW)
56. Robert d'Artois (IWF, WOW, DWI, WWO)
55. Candyman (LWC, IEWC)
54. Tha Dragon (JPW, DPW, HWF)
53. Boltz (MLW)
52. "Breakfast" Bobby Toast (NPWA)
51. Otto Verhoeven (SCRA)
50. :"Legacy" Johnny Skiles (IWF/WOW, APWA, NEWA)
49. "Too Cool" Chris Hopper (UEW)
48. The Idol (IWF/WOW)
47. Nick Demola (HWF, DWF, HMCW)
46 Lightning (UCWF, TWF)
45. Eric Draven (WWO)
44. "The Legend" Sean Darring (POW)
43. "Crimson" Joe Reed (AEWA, UWF)
42. Creed (IIWF)
41. Tiger Claw (SCRA, EMWC)
40. "Diamondback" Chris Myers (EMWC)
39. Mad Goat (SWF)
38. Jason Storm (FWF)
37. "Mr. Excitement" Alex Extreme (IWF/WOW, UEW, NaWF, AeWF)
36. Troy Majors (WWO)
35. Knick Man (AICW, HHWO)
34. "Confident" Lawrence Williams (HHWO, IeWC, CoW, NACW)
33. Ethan de Sade (SCRA)
32. "The Wrestling Machine" Rick Sly
31. Magnus Colby (IWC, UEW)
30. Eddie Jacobs (INWI, NEW)
29. "Cold and Calculating" Tony Houston (INWI)
28. Jack Vars (JPW)
27. Mannifred Lester (UEW)
26. Christopher Stonebreaker (IWF/WOW, EMWC)
25. "Midas Touch" Johnny Glamour (IWC, UEW) - Former IWC International
champion set off on the Glamour for Gold '98 tour. Although despised
as
a con man, his success is undeniable, and continues in the UEW.
24. "Madman" Randall Osbourne (AEWA, UWF) - A dominant force in both
the
AEWA and the UWF, Osbourne ended the legendary AEWA World Title reign
of
"Crimson" Joe Reed, captured the UWF U.S. Title, and somehow managed
to
win the AEWA Light Heavyweight Title, an amazing feat for a 300 pounder.
23. Ivan "Iron Curtain" Raimus (INWI, UWF, SCRA, UEW) - RSPWF's top
Cruiserweight does alright without a weight limit as well. The top
performer in this summer's RSPWF top 100 Cruiserweights poll, Raimus
claimed gold in INWI and NEW this year.
22. Nevermind (UEW, IWC) - Another man who dominates everywhere he goes,
Nevermind claimed gold in both the UEW and IWC this year. One of, if
not
the only, man to score a win over Chris Tyler this year.
21. Jeff "Madfox" Matthews (UEW, SOW, EMWC) - RSPWF was full of
so-called "free agents" claiming their availability was the most
important news since the IIWF folded. The EMWC won the rights to the
Madfox, a former UEW Ultimate champion and multiple SOW champion.
20. "The Natural" Justin Miller (OWF, HHWO) - Every year, the RSPWF
200
manages to get at least one star who excels in smaller leagues, off
the
radar screen of the big leagues, but nevertheless generating big enough
buzz to hit the top 25. Now in the HHWO and OWF, Miller won't get that
"underrated" label next year.
19. Shawn Sylkk (DPW, JPW, ICW) - Yeah, he's got a nickname too, but
this is a family show. Holder of ICW's top two singles titles
simultaneously, Sylkk is on his way to household-name status in a hurry.
18. "Showstopper" Simon Lebec (EMWC) - OK, Lebec's here. Maybe it isn't
a family show. Lebec managed to win the IIWF Intercontinental title
before they folded, and while in the EMWC, joined Trey Porter, Zack
Malone, and Ronnie D in the latest incarnation of the Body Shop. Lebec
and Ronnie managed to get thrown out, and Lebec has been engaged in
a
major feud with Porter and Malone. A true heat machine everywhere he
goes.
17. Derek Mota (IIWF, SCRA) - Moving right along, we come to
e-wrestling's "Heatseeker", former IIWF Cruiserweight champ Derek Mota.
In the SCRA, he captured the North American Heavyweight title, proving
he
can play with the big boys, which is good, because everyone is gunning
for him.
16. King Apples (INWI) - A bit of a surprise last year, King Apples'
performance this year lived up to the high expectations set for him,
winning the INWI World Heavyweight title from his Brotherhood companion,
Tony Houston.
15. "Sychosis" Joe Petrow (IIWF) - The IIWF World Champion Forever,
and
that's a mighty long time. Petrow was the man chosen to stand in the
center of the ring as e-wrestling's most legendary promotion closed
its
doors. Besides, what can you say about a man who made a star out of
Mr.
Majestyk Maurice McArthur?
14. LOCO (SCRA, INWI, UIWF, UWA) - Yes, that LOCO. (There, I said it.)
The owner of one of e-wrestling's most recognizable catch-phrases,
LOCO
mixes humor with great wrestling, holding gold in the INWI, among others.
13. Andrew "Flash" Tucker (INWI, LAW, CNWF, NEW) - The longest reigning
INWI Light Heavyweight champion of all time, held the CNWF U.S. Title,
then managed to top it, by winning the INWI World Heavyweight title.
12. Serge Annis (EMWC, UWF) - Never underestimate the power of setting
stuff on fire. Annis never stopped fighting, and finally captured the
IIWF World Title shortly before the IIWF closed its doors. Not losing
a
beat, Annis arrived in the EMWC, where he started hurting people right
away, a task he still enjoys in his old stomping grounds, the UWF.
11. "Ladykiller" Chris Tyler (UEW) - Simply a force of nature in the
UEW, Tyler went unbeaten for eight entire months while holding the
UEW
American Championship. Currently the top contender to the UEW Title,
and
I don't like the odds of the guy who holds it when he gets his shot.
10. "Spotlight" V.D. Vitrone (INWI, UEW, NEW) - Once known as
"Vindicator" Vinny Vitrone, V.D. did two stints as NEW Heavyweight
champion, held the NEW Tag belts with Eddie Jacobs, and didn't lose
a
beat in the INWI, holding the Light Heavyweight Championship and the
Television title.
9. "Blackheart" Casey James (EMWC, LWC, IIWF, SCRA) - The Masked Outlaw
returned, reforming the legendary Syndicate. One of the greatest IIWF
champions ever, James added the prestigious SCRA World Title to his
collection, winning a 3-way dance with Ethan de Sade, and some guy
named
Hardin.
8. "Cowboy" Ken Curtis (SCRA) - The Night of Glory winner has taken
the
best that the Syndicate can dish out this year. A sensational feud
with
J.W. Hardin, coupled with two IIWA World Title reigns, AND two SCRA
World
Title reigns, combine to make Curtis well known as one of the toughest
players in the game today.
7. "Top Dog" Rick Styles (UEW) - "Top Dog" accurately describes Styles'
position in the UEW. Current holder of the UEW Heavyweight championship,
a belt he's held four times. As if that weren't enough, Styles also
won
the JMRC Invitational Rumble. One of the men who are making the UEW
famous.
6. Creed (UEW) - It takes guts to wear the name of a legend. It takes
talent to live up to that name. Not the IIWF's red-gloved wonder, this
rough and tough competitor held the HHWO World Title, and quickly earned
a title shot shortly after entering UEW. A true presence on RSPWF,
this
Creed is destined for immortality.
5. :"Mr. Main Event" Chris Douglas (SCRA, UKCW) - "Mr. Main Event"...a
name that sounds like a cry for undeserved attention...if it were
attached to anyone else. The first ever UCKW World Heavyweight champion
is one of the top stars in the SCRA, and I have it on good authority
that
lives would have been placed in danger had he not been rated highly.
4. Brody Thunder (SCRA, IIWF) - I'm still stunned from his landslide
last year. Not Brody. Actually, Brody missed a fair amount of 1998
due
to family commitments, but when he was here, he was HERE. He refereed
the Steve Kowalski - Serge Annis match, defeated Playboy Ronnie D at
IIWF
forever, and hooked up with the New Syndicate in the SCRA. Didn't need
much time, and one can only wonder what he'd have accomplished with
a
full year.
3. James "Simply the Best" Pillow (many) - "Es Tee Bee" does so much,
in
so many different places, and always has time to take control. Former
JPW champ, INWI tag champ, NEW World champ, INWI Light Heavyweight
champ,
and if I kept on, this entry would be as long as the rest of the list.
2. "Playboy" Ronnie D (EMWC) - If RSPWF has an Icon, his name is
"Playboy" Ronnie D. Without winning a title, Ronnie positioned himself
as the most recognized name in e-wrestling. Joined the Body Shop in
the
EMWC, beat Brody Thunder at IIeW, and never managed to be far from
a
camera, or a microphone. Always having an eye for a trend, Ronnie D
shocked the e-wrestling world with his retirement earlier this year.
Following an even more popular trend, Ronnie D unretired, to probably
far
less surprise. If he sticks around for all of 1999, I wouldn't bet
against him moving up a spot.
And the #1 wrestler in the world today is...
1. J.W. Hardin (SCRA) - Ah, J.W., we hardly knew ye. 1998 saw J.W.
Hardin head off into retirement once more, but not before wreaking
still
more havoc on the wrestling world. He won the second D-Cup, and finished
in the finals of the first. Although Bobby Taylor took Hardin's famous
"Outlaw" moniker the EMWC, the roughneck's legacy is guaranteed, even
if
this retirement turns out to be permanent. After being one of the men
who made the IIWF, Hardin made his headlines this year in the SCRA,
where
his battles with Ken Curtis were the stuff of legend. Reforming the
Syndicate with Casey James and Derek Mota, Hardin took the SCRA World
Heavyweight title from Curtis, a title only retirement could take from
him. If he ain't coming back, then he will be sorely missed. But
retirements are rarely permanent around here.... Either way,
congratulations to J.W. Hardin, the top e-wrestler of 1998.
1999:
NOTE: comments in brackets are by some RSPWF schmuck....it's just funny
to see what he says about the AGW guys.
200. T'Chamunga (GPW, ICW)
[Can't really comment because I've never heard of him nor seen any of his work, though from what I hear GPW is fabulous fed.]
199. Nick Demola (INWA)
[I am guessing that is supposed to say INWI? Anyway, Demola is decent, IMO, but he wasn't around much at all this year. So, I suppose a low spot in the rankings is accurate. Not to mention the fact that I was JUST about to destroy him in NEW2, but the fed closed :)]
198. Erik Blackblade (PCWF)
[Again, never heard of him.]
197. Johnny Nightmare (GWA, EWA)
[Ditto.]
196. "Enigma" Michael Andrews (UAW, XABC)
[This name sounds familiar. But I don't recall every seeing any of his work.]
195. "Reckless" Ryan Stitt (NWWA)
[Wow... I am finally realizing how many e-wrestlers there are out there. Never heard of this guy either. I dig the name though.]
194. "GQ" Geoffrey Quarz (NCCW)
[This guy I have seen. I really like him. He plays the GQ gimmick pretty well. I feel he could have ranked higher. Probably in the top 100.]
193. El Dorado (SSW)
[Never heard of him.]
192. Gabriel Ragnarok (UWC)
[Same.]
191. J.W. Hardin (EMWC)
[Never heard o... just kidding :) We all know Hardin is the MAN. He was #1 last year, and he deserved it, IMO. This year, he was quite silent, however, except for teaming with Brody in EMWC. Don't know if he wrestled at all as a singles wrestler, though I may be wrong.]
190. Flaming Bob (NWWA)
[Never heard of him, though he sounds... interesting.]
189. G.I. Bro (EWA)
[Heh. Wonder where he got this name? Anyway, I've never seen him before.]
188. Tony Paseno (USW)
[Paseno I have seen. He's actually DAMN good, and should be in the top 35 or so. Just has a great ability to mold his RPs into great storylines.]
187. "Rodeo" Nevada Harris (ACW)
[Well, being that he got his ass handed to him by Lawrence Christian... TWICE, I might add, he's still really good (just playing, Ian). Walsh really knows how to make his character stand out as one of the most realistic. Again, I think Nevada could and should be higher, though since I don't know a whole bunch of people on the list, it's difficult to say.]
186. Josh Cagle (PFW)
[Never heard of him.]
185. Rampage (AXWF, HWF, CPW)
[Never heard of him.]
184. Volrath (EHW)
[Never heard of him.]
183. Nightmare (MWA, IeWA, NeWA)
[Same.]
182. Marcus Payne (UWC, BTW)
[Again.]
181. Mike "The Dream" Stevens (PWF, UIW)
[Never heard of him, though again, another cool name.]
180. TORA Waziname (G-Pro, NWC-J)
[This guy I have heard of. I have not seen a whole lot of his work, but I have read one or two flashes. Not all that bad at all... he's actually pretty good at protraying a japanese wrestler, and trust me... it ain't easy. Could probably be a few places higher, but from what I've seen, I don't feel he's as great as a bunch of people say he is.]
179. Tasagore No Prince (SJPW)
[On the other hand, this guy is killer. VERY good. Should be in the top 25, easily. One of the favorite foreign characters ever.]
178. Killer Instinct (EHW)
[Never heard of him. Doesn't sound too original, though. But of course, can't judge a book by it's cover.]
177. Robert Stevens (NeWA, NCW, MWA)
[Can't say.]
176. Boog Man (NeWA)
[Never heard of him.]
175. Philia (Gyeah, IEWA)
[Ahh... the first female. I've never seen Philia's flashes before, though I'd like to. I hear she's phenomenal. HOWEVER, I'd like to express my opinion again, that if the females have their own poll, that the men should have their own. I have no problem with females being on it, if there was just one poll. But then why should they also get their own? Ah well...]
174. Tony Houston (INWI)
[I really like the "Cold and Calculating" one. Plays the sadistic gimmick quite well.]
173. Hard Rock Higdon (BSW)
[Never heard of him.]
172. "Phenom" Scott Douglas (NCCW)
[Same.] Though, another very nice name. That's why I dig this poll. Always get to see creativity even without flashes.]
171. Devo Tremor (NWC, SCCW)
[Same... Though, another very nice name. That's why I dig this poll. Always get to see creativity even without flashes.]
170. Tony Pride (NWC)
[Never heard of him.]
169. Big Fat Pimp (LotR)
[Never heard of him.]
168. Lew Spectre (NCCW)
[Never heard of him.]
167. Vinny Kudione (BSW)
[Never heard of him.]
166. TNT (EHW)
[Never heard of him.]
165. Lance Nelson (BWF, EPCW, MCWA)
[Never heard of him.]
164. Ethan DeSade (ACWA)
[Despite what some people have to say about this character and the handler, I am an Ethan mark. I really love the way he incorporates the scene into his RPs. I try to do the same with my RPs, though I'm not sure I succeed the same way De Sade does.]
163. Creed (GSWP, NEW, UEW)
[Creed had the #4 vote on my ballot. Not only can this guy flash the hell out of anyone, but he is the master of the angle and strat. Honestly, I've never seen a guy strat like this before in my life... nor have I ever seen someone make me want to read the next flash SO damn bad, just so I can see an angle develop. Wow, is all I have to... should be ranked, WAY higher, IMHO.]
162. Tracker (AMWC)
[Never heard of him.]
161. Mike Masters (ICW)
[Never heard of him.]
160. "Rumble" Justin Russell (ICPW)
[Never heard of him.]
159. "Erotic" Erin McCoys (UWF)
[Another female. You know my take on this situation, but nonetheless, if they have to be there... Erin deserves to be on the poll.]
158. J.C. Silk (AWMC)
Never heard of him.]
157. Chase Hunter (UWF)
[I used to like this character way back... when he was in SCRA over a year ago, though I think he's gotten progressively more boring since then. I feel as though this is a fair spot for him.]
156. "Delicious" Dick Dayton (dXWF)
[Never heard of him.]
155. Ace Killcannon (Hardkore World)
[Never heard of him.]
154. Devil Elvis (EMWC)
[I was shocked when I read Jason Russell's awards and saw that Tao had won rookie of the year. Devil Elvis deserved it, hands down. Just a fabulous gimmick.]
153. Post (PFW, WCCW, EWA, AWA)
[Never heard of him.]
152. "Laid Back" Lawrence Christian (ACW)
[Here's one of my characters. Just to give some background, he's ACW Smoky Mountain Champion. He's also looking for one more fed. I guess he's worthy of this spot, though there are a lot of guys who ranked better that I think Christian could beat... and a lot who ranked worse that could destroy him.]
151. Hightower (IWF/WOW)
[Never heard of him.]
150. "Diamondback" Chris Myers (EMWC, UWF)
[150?! 150??!!! Myers is the shit. If you cut 150 in half, and gave that spot to Myers, it'd still be MUCH too low.]
149. "Primetime" Paul Richards (ACW, UIW)
[Never heard of him.]
148. Tragedy (UWF)
[LoL... Though his name is Tragedy, he's one of the funniest in e-wrestling. It's these characters that keep the hobby light at times.]
147. "New Legend" Kenneth Morlock (NWWA, ICW)
[Have heard of him, just haven't seen much of his stuff.]
146. Devon Case (ICW, UWF)
[Case is an average flasher, IMO. This spot seems appropriate.]
145. "Excellent" Arthur Essex (USW)
[Essex is very talented. Was VSW World Champion, and competes in the upper card of any fed he's in. Would be ranked higher if he was more well known.]
144. "Sweet" Jarred Bombay (AWMC)
[Have heard a whole lot of hype about this dude, but haven't ever seen one flash.]
143. High Flyer (EWA, GWA)
[Never heard of him.]
142. Burden (MCW, WWW)
[Never heard of him.]
141. Legacy (XBWL)
[Never heard of him.]
140. "Wildcat" Jim Lewis, Jr.(UEW, MCW)
[Lewis is good. Not GREAT... good. This is good placement for him... not any lower though... possibly a little higher. But, I think sometimes, the "Wildcat" gets too much praise.]
139. "White Hot" Darren Morgan (WWO)
[The WWO is without a doubt the most underrated fed. It's amazing. Mark does a great job as president. There are, however, a whole load of great wrestlers on the roster who would deserve to make this over Darren Morgan. I mean, the character is okay, and I suppose this spot is accurate, but there are SO many who deserve it in the fed and were denied it.]
138. "Devastating" Damon Knight (USW, EWF, TWL)
[Heard of him. Haven't seen anything, though.]
137. Markus King (PFW, WCCW, NWW)
[Never heard of him.]
136. Masked Man (EHW)
[Never heard of him.]
135. "Royal Raven" Nathaniel Blake (PWF, AWA, BSW)
[Never heard of him.]
134. Johnny Glamour (GSWP)
[Ahh, Glamz. Was completely silent this year, with the exception of two or three months in GSWP. He was great... but went running back into retirement when Fang grabbed the world title back from him, beating him for the second time :)]
133. Hiroyoshi Tenzaki (NJPW)
[Never heard of him.]
132. "Rugged" Ron Corley (BSW, AWA)
[Never heard of him.]
131. Rock Solid (UIW)
[Never heard of him.]
130. "Lunatic" Ace Custis (ICW)
[Never heard of him.]
129. "Superstar" Carl Blair (AWMC, GPW)
[Never heard of him.]
128. "Mac" Matt Austin (XBWL)
[Never heard of him.]
127. Kuwasi "Blackfist" Shakur (AWMC, CCW, IWF/WOW)
[Some call this dude a legend. He's held a ton of gold, and has dominated a ton of feds... what do I call him? Boring.]
126. Full Blooded Killah (EWWF, ICW)
This man received SO much hype and praise this year, and for nothing. In my opinion, he doesn't even belong on this poll or any other.]
125. Rick Showboat (AWMC)
[Creative name. With originality like this, he must be stallar! (end sarcasm)]
124. Golem (MLCW, ZWF)
[Never heard of him.]
123. "Razor" Ron Jeremy (IWF/WOW)
[Never heard of him. But, he IS a porn star!]
122. Bret Masters (CPW)
[Never heard of him.]
121. Stephen Greer (NeWA)
[Never heard of him.]
120. Tommy James (GLCW)
[Deserves higher. A lot higher... maybe top 30.]
119. Piper Evans (UWF)
[Another lady. Stirred up a lot of controversy in the UWF Women's division... actually a VERY talented writer.]
118. Chameleon (ICPW)
[Never heard of him.]
117. Valtharius the Mad (MLW, NPWA)
[Had he not gone into retirement, Val would have ben #1 on my ballot. He is an e-wrestling GOD!]
116. Tyrone "TA" Alguard (BJWC)
[Never heard of him.]
115. Genji Yamato (WWO, NJPW)
[Another decent Japanese character. Not better than Tasagore though, by any means.]
114. Kieran Erotikka (IEWA, UWF)
[Hell of a character. You know my issue with famale characters on this poll. So, I won't even continue to discuss it.]
113. Eric "Viper" Michaels (Gyeah, EWO)
[Not has good as the other character she handles.]
112. Westside Walavan (ICW)
[Just completely blows ass. Does not deserve to even be in any e-wrestling federation nevermind this poll. He is a waste of time to anyone he faces him or reads his RPs.]
111. Rated X (Hardkore World)
[Never heard of him.]
110. Cypris (BSW)
[Never heard of him.]
109. Psycho Soup (Gyeah, MLCW)
[Never heard of him.]
108. "Vile" Vince Viper (NWWA)
[Never heard of him. But there are too many Triple V's out there.]
107. Hiroyoshi Tenzaki (AWMC)
[Never heard of him.]
106. Purple Pride (NCCW)
[Have never heard of or seen anything by him, though the idea sounds original. I'd like to see what he can do.]
105. Steve Sire (NWC)
[Never heard of him.]
104. Doc Holliday (UEW)
[Jeremy's character... no doubt a great. Should be top 75 IMO.]
103. Eugene "Sparks" Robinson (NWC, GPW)
[He's been around for a LONG time. He should be in the top 15. He is just solid in all aspects.]
102. "Dangerous" Dusty Love (VSW, ICW)
[Dusty! You rock... that's all I have to say about him.]
101. Alex Extreme (ICW, UEW)
[I like this character a ton. Didn't see a whole lot by him this year, though.]
100. Cyris "The F'n Virus" Williams (GWNW)
[Never heard of him.]
THE TOP 99!!!!!!!
99. Bobby Nowa (Hardkore World)
[Never heard of him.]
98. "Delinquent" Kevin Fontaine (NCCW)
[Never heard of him.]
97. "Principal" Morgan DeSade (ACWA)
[He was on my ballot. Another great Gateway creation.]
96. Dan Kauffman (UWF)
[He's a 'legend' so he deserves to be on it, I guess... I'm just not that big of a fan.]
95. D.B. Bugg (ICW)
[Never heard of him.]
94. Hades (IWF/WOW)
[Hades is very good. I saw his work in the late FWF. Haven't seen him recently, but he is definitely deserving of this spot.]
93. Shoichi Mishima (NJPW)
[Never heard of him.]
92. Axel Reed (UWC)
[Never heard of him.]
91. Jeremy "Hardcore Action" Jackson (DXWF)
[Never heard of him.]
90. Adrian Faust (Hardkore World)
[Never heard of him.]
89. "Supreme Being" Jeremy Rhodes (AWMC, ACW)
[This dude is pretty cool. Great RPs to go along with what is, IMO, one of the best names in e-wrestling.]
88. "Dark Knight" Voron Mikhailatnov (NWWA)
[Never heard of him.]
87. "Too Cool" Chris Hopper (UEW)
[Chris Hopper is really cool. He owned IWE for a while this year, and just puts out quality work consistently.]
86. Bob Booreng (ICPW)
[Never heard of him.]
85. Tommy "Lord" Lionheart (ICW, VSW)
[Wayne's ok... don't know if he should be this high though. There are plenty of guys who could be up in this region of the poll who didn't even make it at all.]
84. "The Deal" Chris Kitching (ICPW, NACW)
[Never heard of him.]
83. Sabbath (NWWA, UWF)
[This dude, is amazing. He told me he was gonna join my fed, but the bastard never did :)]
82. Trevor Fitzroy (EWO, DXWF)
[Never heard of him.]
81. "Hotstuff" Darren Henry (LVPWA)
[This character needs a lot of development, but he is decent. With time he could become a classic.]
80. Doman Schwaling (NWC)
[Never heard of him.]
79. Idol Austin (NWC)
[I mark for the Idol. Overall, he's great. In terms of quality flashes... he rocks!]
78. Tommy Grayson (IWF/WOW, EFW, ICW)
[Ehh... he's ok. Not #78 though, but decent. Average at best.]
77. Justin Cruise (AWMC, PCWF)
[Never heard of him.]
76. Kyle Blaque (Gyeah)
[Never heard of him.]
75. Caleb Temple (EMWC)
[Simply the greatest e-wrestling character ever, IMO. Scott knows how to flash like a madman, and basically... I mark 100% for Caleb Temple.]
74. Terrence M. Garvin (AGW)
[Never heard of him. Here's where we start to see the AGW rise.]
73. "Bullseye" Shawn Arrow (NWC)
[Never heard of him.]
72. "The Sheriff" Damon Hayes (NWC)
[Never heard of him.]
71. "Phenomenon" Tyro Marvel (NCCW)
[Never heard of him.]
70. Pheonix X (BSW)
[Never heard of him.]
69. Adam Fierce (NeWA)
[Never heard of him.]
68. Blackhawk McKnight (AGW)
[Again, never heard of him... but, remember AGW.]
67. Brody Thunder (EMWC, SCW)
[This is a perfect spot for Brody this year. Don't get me wrong, he's awesome... but he was only in one fed (SCW) for most of the year, and was actually kinda silent. Then he went to EMWC as part of a tag team, and stirred a whole lot of attention... but it was based primarily on reputation.]
66. Luscious Luciano (BTW, SSW)
[Never heard of him.]
65. Brian J. Blottie (ICPW)
[I like Blottie... but he's much better with his tag team. Precious Moments rules!]
64. Anthony Christopher Edwards (EWO, DXWF)
[Never heard of him.]
63. King Apples (GLCW)
[Ddidn't know Apples was back in e-wrestling. He's a really cool character... but from what I have seen in the past, I am not as impressed as some others.]
62. Ivan Raimus (DWF)
[Ramius is around? Wow.. didn't know. He's cool, but haven't seen ANYTHING from him in this past year.]
61. Big Bully Brandon (BSW, AWA, WAV)
[Never heard of him.]
60. Casey James (EMWC)
[A legend... but didn't see much of him this year.]
59. Eddie Jacobs (EMWC)
[This was Eddie's breakout year, and to be honest, I am surprised he's not ranked better on this poll. I became a Jacobs mark this year. I used to think that the character was dry, but now that I have seen more, I really like him.]
58. Wasp (NWWA)
[Never heard of him.]
57. Trey Lawrenz (AWMC)
[Never heard of him.]
56. Scott "The Fop" Rogers (UWF)
[He had an incredible year... again. One of the most original characters I've seen... and he just plainly kicks major ass.]
55. "Flyking" Will Geddings (AWMC)
[Supposedly, this guy is a legend. I saw one of his RPs and I think it;s utter crap. I'm only one man though.]
54. "Annihilator" Alex Soriano (ICPW, ACW)
[Haven't seen too much of him.]
53. Charmel (Gyeah)
[Never heard of him.]
52. Steppenwulf (MLW, IWF/WOW, LVPWA)
[heard a lot about him... haven't seen much.]
51. Speed Racer (AGW)
[More AGW...]
50. "Widowmaker" Magus Colby (UEW)
[This character is plain out awesome. He was IWC champion for a while, and is now UEW Ultimate Champ. Basically he's just got that style... one that makes you want to read more.]
49. Nemesis (Gyeah, MLCW)
[Never heard of him.]
48. "Ice Storm" Chris Winters (GSWP)
[I am so glad that he made the poll. Winters, before he went silent (about a month ago) was, IMO, one of the best of the year. No one really knows about him, but damn he is amazing. He held the GSWP TV title for a LONG time, and ran a great angle with Eddie Rue. Winters should be top 10.]
47. Setzer Van Stryfe (GLCW, EMWC)
[Van "Stryfe" is cool. Now in the EMWC, he was crazy in GLOW. Though I feel his best stuff came last year, Setz is still a fabulous character.]
46. "Simply the Best" James Pillow (VSW)
[Yikes! The Pillow phenomenon is still here. A much more realistic place for Pillow this year, though I still feel he's not this good. James is simply a little above average. All he does is write a lot... the quality is questionable.]
45. Serge Annis (EMWC, UWF)
[Heh... another e-wrestling great. Didn't have the pleasure of seeing any of his work this year.]
44. "Diamond Girl" Heidi Leick (IEWA)
[Though many say Nyx Dunne is great, I have not seen her, and from what I HAVE seen, Leick has mastered the art of female e-wrestling. She's just the best bar-none on any way shape or form.]
43. "Tigerheart" Rally Jackson (Hardkore World, GWNW)
[Never heard of him.]
42. Alex Raptor (NJPW, GPro, WWO, AICW)
[Not impressed by him.]
41. Hiroyoshi Takada (AWMC)
[Never heard of him.]
40. Extremely Hardcore Brawler (AGW)
[Never heard of him. But note once again... AGW.]
39. Masked Superstar Jobber (ICW)
[ROFL! He blows!]
38. Kuba Rico (ICW)
[This guy does NOT blow, however. Kuba is one of my favorite foreign characters. He plays tha gangsta better than anyone ever.]
37. Nightmare (MWA, IeWF, NeWA)
[Never heard of him.]
36. "Mean" Mark Mease (XBWL, WWFW)
[Never heard of him.]
35. Boltz (LVPWF, GSWP, ICW, GWNW)
[JR... you be the man. Boltz is solid and has improved SO much... I still don't feel however, that he's as good as many say he is.]
34. Mark Payne (AGW)
[AGW again... the name sounds boring, but apparently people think he's pretty good.]
33. Hunter Sabunai (NWC, GCW)
[Never heard of him.]
32. "Golden Boy" Chris Gunn (WWFW)
[Never heard of him.]
31. Nyx Dunne (GLCW)
[The hype was about her this year... I've still yet to see an RP of hers though.]
30. "Midnight" Darren Skiles (AWMC)
[Never heard of him.]
29. Tiger Claw (EMWC)
[Should be top 5. He's a legend, and deserves to be labeled as one.]
28. LOCO (UIWF, NLWP)
[I know he wasn't around most of the year, but he was still good when he was here. I like his NLWP stuff a ton.]
27. Youth Gone Wild (UWF, EMWC)
[One of the top faces, without a doubt. Makes the EMWC cruiserweight division fun to read.]
26. Mark Paris (AGW)
[Never heard of him.]
THE TOP 25!!!!!
25. Luc Stevens (BSW, PWP) - Currently the BSW commissioner, Stevens was a world champion when competing on the active roster. Currently, this many time PWP champ is charged with keeping order in the BSW, where he struggles against BSW's many troublemakers.
24. Damien King (Gyeah) - Currently retired according to at least one account, this dark brooding character earned the nicknames "Running Suicide," and the "Luckiest Man Alive," during a run that brought him the GW Heavyweight championship.
23. "The Natural" Mike Bell (NeWA) - Well they call him the natural...sorry. One of the NeWA's most prominent faces, this former PNW and NeWA heavyweight champion leads the DWA, the NeWA's top face stable, and remains a top threat to regain the title.
22. "Screaming Drillbit" Jason Keening (UEW) - Staying true to the fans in a world of heels, the Drillbit is one of the top cruiserweights in UEW, and a holder of the Television title. A sure bet to contend for the UEW title in 2000, and a pretty safe bet to win it.
21. "Sexy Baby" Kyle Backwood (UWF) - UWF World Champion by the time you read this, the Sexy Baby reinvented himself into one of the UWF"s top heels. A killer U.S. title reign and great feuds with "Crimson" Joe Reed and "Dark Horse" Randall Osbourne have cemented Backwood's place at the top.
20. Byron Tanis (TWA, NeWA) - With a world title reign under his belt as well as multiple IWA and PNW title reigns, this humorous heel leads one of the top stables in the NeWA.
19. Hyuk Suh Kim (NeWA, IWA, GCW) - Everyone who's beaten this guy, raise your hands. Liars. Holder of the IWA and NeWA Cruiserweight titles, as well as the NeWA International champion, this former Super J Cup winner made it through the year with but one scant countout loss marring an otherwise perfect record.
18. Retribution (AWMC) - An AWMC mainstay, Retribution calls himself the "Franchise," and recieves no argument from the AWMC's roster. This 7 foot monster is an intimidating force of nature who has been a presence in AWMC for the past two years. Former AWMC Champion and Extreme champion.
17. Chocolate Thunder (AGW) - Went through a few identity changes before emerging as AGW's "Savior" this year, and winning the AGW World Title. "C-Dogg" is given credit for reviving AGW during its hour of need.
16. Most Holy (AGW) - A two time AGW world champion, Most Holy has made the AGW Cruiserweight title his own personal property, winning it an unbelievable ten times. Considered by many the greatest wrestler to ever set foot in an AGW ring.
15. Andrew "Flash" Tucker (EMWC) - A champion many times over in the Cruiserweight and tag divisions of the INWI, Tucker and Mike Sebastian have formed one of teh top teams in the business. Took the EMWC Tag Titles along with Sebastian, and further cemented his name with an INWI World Title win.
14. "Candyman" Damien Rose (UEW) Mmmmmm....candy. (Homer Simpson mode off) Candyman went through a name change, (actually revealing his real name), and held the UEW American title for a large chunk of 1999, and is a good bet to add the UEW Ultimate title next year.
13. "Outcast" Rob Cole (AWMC) - A two time former AWMC Heavyweight champion, beating longtime rival Kuwasi "Blackfist" Shakur, and has made the turn from heel to face while retaining the hardcore style that has made him one of AWMC's top draws.
12. Trixxster (UEW) - You don't expect history to be made by the promotion's class clown. Nevertheless, Trixxster is on the cusp of history, or some other similarly profound statement. Having captured the UEW's Cruiserweight, Television, and American titles, Trixxster only needs to capture the big belt, the UEW Ultimate title, to be the UEW's first ever grand slam singles champion.
11. "Dark Horse" Randall Osbourne (UWF, AEWA) - Having totally dominated the AEWA during recent years, Oz has emerged from the shadow of the Daimyo, took the UWF by storm as a member of the Insanity Society, and claimed the UWF World title this year.
10. Mark Langseth (EMWC) - Piece of advice to all up and comers. Get on the President's side. Langseth teamed up with EMWC President Chris Blue as part of a breakout year in which he captured the EMWC World Title, moving Langseth firmly into the elite club that is the top of the card in the EMWC.
9. "Crimson' Joe Reed (UWF, EMWC) - He just keeps going...and going...Reed proved once is never enough, with another reign as EMWC World Champion that would serve as a great capstone to an unbelieveable career, Reed's recent heel turn and membership in the Pride signals this legend isn't done yet.
8. Fang (GSWP, EMWC, WWO) - Sometimes the simple names are the best. A true veteran who has earned the title of legend, Fang captured the GSWP title on two occasions, coming out on top of a memorable feud with Johnny Glamour.
7. Eddie Van Gibson (EMWC) - Let's see, a former MLW World Champion, and oh yeah, a two time EMWC World Champion, who picked up his first EMWC title during his first four months in EMWC. Did a monster face turn, followed it up with a monster heel turn. "Mr. Maple Leaf" has become an immediate major player at the highest levels of e-wrestling.
6. "Money Driven" Mike Sebastian (EMWC, WWO, NPWA, GLCW) - In addition to a seven month reign as WWO TV champion, Sebastian won Light Heavyweight titles in INWI and WWEW, successful stints in NPWA and GLCW, plus that impressive EMWC Tag Title run with Andrew "Flash" Tucker discussed earlier. A force to be reckoned with in both singles and tag team wrestling.
5. "Blood Angel" Simon Ezra (EMWC) - There are probably thousands of e-wrestlers who boast of their hardcore credentials, but none can make the case as convincingly as the now retired Blood Angel. A King of the Death Match in EMWC, an extreme icon whose depth is unparalleled.
4. William Craven (EMWC, ACWA) - Another newcomer to EMWC who's made a huge name for himself in a very short time, claiming the North American title immediately upon arrival, or as close to immediately as anyone has a right to expect. And in 2000...he's only going up.
3. Chris Del Rio (AWMC, SCW, NJPW) - Former AWMC Heavyweight champion is considered one of the top heels in the business. Captured gold in SCW and NJPW as well, and has fueded with some of the top names in the business. Actually manages to get away with calling himself "The Climax of Sports Entertainment" which should tell you something about his capabilities.
2. Alex Martinez (UEW, EMWC) - Hot Stuff...The Black Knight...The Last American Badass...Martinez spent most of the year with the UEW Ultimate title, won the American title as well, and still had the time to vault to the upper echelon of EMWC, holding his own in some of EMWC's most extreme contests, and beating some of the top names in the game, and made a real run at claiming the #1 spot.
1. "Top Dog" Rick Styles (UEW, UWF) - And for once, the nickname
fits. The #1 player in the game today is none other than Rick Styles,
the five time, five time, FIVE TIME...you get the picture. (Referring
to the UEW Ultimate Title, for those who were wondering.) Following
last year's popular trend, he retired in February. He made it to
April before hearing the call again. Joined the UWF recently, and
like many others near the top of the list, made an impact right away, claiming
the UWF's Rampage Championship. A repeat visitor to the top 10, Rick
made it all the way this year. Congratulations.
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