HCW Wrestling Newsletter 2025 #1067 – 1/26

Hello wrestling fans and welcome back to another installment of the HCW Wrestling Newsletter.  On our show tonight, Hell’s Fang – the Morningstar will be in action.  It is safe to assume that Count Vlad will be in his corner.  After their interaction yesterday, a match was set up between cousins Lou Albano III and Salvatore Albano.  Both men are on different sides of the familial fence and both are fighting for the name.  Samoan Stomper Raku will also be in action.  Viper’s Fang aka Korbi Kong will be in singles action.  Finally, the Heritage Women’s Title will be on the line when the champion Ashley ‘Diamond’ Summers will defend her title against the British Crippler.  More is expected so let’s get this show on the road.

 

After the pyro had ended, things kick off with Rex Rampage making his way out to the ring.  He is booed heavily and he gets in the ring.  Rex says that youth and strength are needed to win titles and he is officially challenging US Champion Zack Brown for his title.  He is interrupted as Count Vlad makes his way out also to booing from the fans.  He gets in the ring and says that the Dark Dominion want that spot also.  Vlad states that a member of the Dark Dominion will be coming out and he will challenge Rex with the winner getting the next US title match.  This all brings out the US Champion Zack Brown.  Zack walks down to the ring with a mic in hand and says that only the championship committee should be allowed to authorize title matches but he has no qualms about the two of them beating each other and he will give the winner the next shot.  Zack goes to sit at ringside.  Rex keeps a weary eye on Zack knowing that he may be looking for revenge after attacking the Commando yesterday during his title match with Col. Flagg.  Count Vlad calls out Madman Mason.  Mason comes out to booing from the fans.  Vlad tells him he will be in his corner tonight and reminds him of what happens when someone fails the Dark Dominion (hinting at the firing of Negropolis a couple of weeks ago).  Mason says he will not let Vlad or the Dark Dominion down.  Vlad smiles and exits the ring.  He was going to go to commentary but Zack gave him a stern look and Vlad went to the other side of the ring.

 

Match #1:  Rex Rampage vs Madman Mason w/Count Vlad.  The winner gets the next shot at the US title.

 

The stakes are high in this match as Madman Mason and Rex Rampage, both vying for a shot at Zack Brown's US title, step into the ring with 'Honest' Abe officiating. Count Vlad is in Mason's corner, adding an extra layer of tension.

 

Mason starts off aggressively with a Belly to Back Suplex, but Rampage quickly neutralizes the move and gains early control.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Madman Mason comes out strong, but Rex Rampage is having none of it!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "Rampage is a powerhouse! He's here to dominate and earn that title shot!"

 

Count Vlad psyches up his protégé, Rex Rampage, who gains momentum with a series of moves, including a Sleeperhold and The Rampage Stampede. The crowd boos both competitors, but the sheer intensity keeps them engaged.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Rampage has Mason on the ropes! This could be a quick one."

 

Mason fights back with another Belly to Back Suplex, but Rampage quickly counters with a Rampage Lock. Despite Mason's efforts, including a Psychotic Break and Strong Toss into Corner, Rex Rampage remains dominant, repeatedly executing his signature moves.

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "Mason's taking a beating, but he refuses to stay down!"

 

Mason shows resilience, kicking out of multiple pin attempts, including after a devastating Piledriver and a Hit with Taped Fist from Rampage. The back-and-forth continues, with both men pushing their limits. Mason tries to turn the tide with his Psychotic Break and Strong Toss into Corner, but Rampage responds with another Sleeperhold and Piledriver.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Rampage is in full control! How much more can Mason take?"

 

The match reaches its climax when Rampage delivers another crushing Piledriver. This time, Mason is unable to withstand the punishment and is pinned for the final time.

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "Rex Rampage wins! What a brutal match! He's now the number one contender for Zack Brown's US title!"

 

As Rampage leaves the ring victorious, Count Vlad steps in, a look of disappointment etched on his face. He approaches Mason, who is struggling to get up.

 

Count Vlad: "Madman Mason, your performance tonight was unacceptable. The Dark Dominion has no room for weakness."

 

The crowd watches intently as Vlad continues.

 

Count Vlad: "You have failed me for the last time. Consider this your dismissal. You are no longer part of the Dark Dominion."

 

Vlad's words echo through the arena as he turns and leaves, leaving Mason in the ring, a broken man. The fans, despite their dislike for the heels, are left stunned by the unexpected turn of events.

 

Mason leaves the ring and heads to the back.  It seems that his bag was already packed.  He picks it up and walks out the door, never looking back.

 

 

Match #2:  Samoan Stomper Raku vs TNT

 

TNT comes out first to a mixed reaction from the crowd.  Although he is the cousin to Wilber Townsend, aka Terror Fang of the Dark Dominion, he has seemingly cut ties with his family.  He gets into the ring, flexes a bit and then stands and waits for his opponent.  Samoan Stomper Raku comes out and the fans are still undecided about him.  He power-walks to the ring and climbs through the ropes.  The bell rings almost immediately to start the match.

 

The crowd is abuzz with curiosity as TNT (Templeton N. Townsend), having seemingly cut ties with his dark cousin Wilber Townsend aka Terror Fang of the Dark Dominion, steps into the ring against the formidable Samoan Stomper Raku.

 

The match kicks off with both men going at it aggressively. Raku executes a powerful Double Chop to the Neck, while TNT responds with a Flying Dropkick. The audience is torn, not knowing who to cheer for.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Both men are bringing their A-game! The fans are on the edge of their seats!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "TNT is showing some impressive moves, but Raku is a powerhouse!"

 

Raku gains the upper hand with a Bearhug, squeezing the life out of TNT, who manages to counter with another Flying Dropkick. The intensity in the ring is palpable as Raku delivers a brutal Samoan Death Stomp, followed by a Knee Drop to the Rib Cage. TNT absorbs the punishment but refuses to stay down.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Raku is relentless! TNT is taking a beating but still fighting back!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "It's clear TNT has something to prove tonight!"

 

The action continues with both men exchanging blows. Raku executes another Samoan Death Stomp, but TNT counters with a Standing Suplex and a Power Uppercut. The crowd's reaction is mixed as TNT starts to gain some momentum.

 

Raku responds with a Coco-Butt and a Choke Against the Ropes, but TNT counters with a Flying Dropkick. The match is a seesaw battle, with neither man gaining a clear advantage.

 

As the match nears its conclusion, Raku delivers a series of Pectoral Chops, and despite TNT's resilience, he is unable to recover. Raku goes for the pin, and the referee counts to three.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Samoan Stomper Raku wins! What a hard-fought battle!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "TNT showed a lot of heart tonight. The fans are still unsure what to make of him, but he put up one heck of a fight!"

 

The crowd's reaction is a mix of boos and cheers as Raku stands victorious, while TNT, despite the loss, earns some respect for his tenacity.

 

Back in the office of the GM, Max has both the New Sicilians and La Famiglia Marconi in there with him.  He tells both of them that they are all banned from ringside.  He adds that if either team interferes or does anything to distract the other, they will be put on suspension.  Dick, with a smirk, says “Whatever you say chief” and walks out with Vinnie following.  Dominic and Rolf look at each other thinking something may be up.  “I don’t trust them” Dominic says.  Max looks at them both.  “Neither do I.”

 

 

Match #3:  Lou Albano vs Salvatore Albano

 

The crowd is buzzing with anticipation as Lou Albano III, the face, steps into the ring to face Salvatore Albano, the heel, who is accompanied by his manager Pierre Boulay. 'Honest' Abe is the referee for this intense match.

 

Lou Albano III starts off strong, attempting an Albano Powerbomb, but Salvatore neutralizes the move and gains early control. The action heats up as Lou executes a Backbreaker, while Salvatore counters with a Ram into the Ring Post.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Lou Albano III is showing his strength, but Salvatore is not backing down!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "This is a battle of the Albano family, and neither man is giving an inch!"

 

The match continues with both wrestlers exchanging powerful moves. Lou delivers a Ground and Pound, but Salvatore responds with a Powerslam, attempting a pin, but Lou kicks out. The crowd is firmly behind Lou, cheering him on.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Lou Albano III is fighting with everything he's got! The fans are loving it!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "Salvatore is relentless, but Lou's resilience is impressive!"

 

Lou straps in an Abdominal Stretch, but Salvatore fights back with an Elbow to the Throat. The intensity of the match keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Lou executes a series of Power Forearms and another Ground and Pound, while Salvatore absorbs the punishment.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Lou is dominating now! Can Salvatore turn this around?"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "Salvatore needs to dig deep if he wants to win this!"

 

As the match progresses, Lou hits an Albano Powerbomb, followed by a Hip Rolls, but Salvatore counters with a Ram into the Ring Post and Forearms. The back-and-forth action is relentless, with both men refusing to give up.

 

In the final moments, Lou executes a Big Foot to the Face and another Hip Rolls, going for the pin. Salvatore attempts to defend but is unsuccessful. Lou Albano III secures the victory with a pinfall.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Lou Albano III wins! What a hard-fought victory!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "The crowd is on their feet! Lou has done it!  But wait…what is this?"

 

Tony Albano                         

 

As Lou celebrates his victory, Salvatore's brother Tony Albano rushes to the ring. Together, they begin to beat down Lou, but a new face emerges from the crowd, rushing to Lou's aid. The newcomer helps Lou fend off the Albano attack, and together they stand tall in the ring.

 

The crowd erupts in cheers as Lou and his new ally ward off the Albano brothers. They stand victorious, soaking in the adulation of the fans before eventually leaving the ring.  Sal and Tony curse at them as they make their way to the back.  Eventually, Lou and his new friend follow.

 

Backstage Promo:

[The arena is filled with an icy chill as The Yeti steps into the ring, his gaze fixed on the camera. He raises the microphone to his lips, his voice echoing with a cold, unrelenting intensity.]

 

"So, now that I have taken the Hardcore Title, I have business with the so-called Alaskan Wildman, Jax Brenner. Jax, let me tell you something: you may think you're tough, but you have no idea what true toughness is. You and your fellow Alaskans are nothing more than soft pretenders, hiding away in your cozy, warm cabins. You haven't faced the true, unyielding cold of the True North.

 

[The Yeti's eyes narrow, a predatory gleam in his gaze.]

 

"I am the Beast of the North, forged in the freezing tundra of the Arctic. I am the apex predator, the one who has survived being hunted by the most relentless Yukon trappers. Your Alaskan wilderness is a playground compared to the brutal, unforgiving landscape I call home. You think you can handle me, Jax? You're nothing more than a warm-blooded, soft Alaskan. A pretty morsel for me to feast on!

 

[He steps closer to the camera, his voice dropping to a menacing growl.]

 

"I know you rely on moves like the Bigfoot Bomb, the Sasquatch Stomp, and the Sasquatch Squeeze, but when we meet, you will see the true power of the Abominable One. You play at being me but when we face you will feel the power and pain of the Glacial Driver, a move that will leave you shattered and broken. I will show you what it means to face a true beast. I will show you the power and ferocity of the Yeti. When we step into that ring, you will understand the meaning of fear. I will leave you broken, a testament to your inadequacy.

 

[He lets out a low, ominous growl, sending shivers down the spines of the audience.]

 

"Brace yourself, Jax Brenner. The Yeti is coming, and you will learn the hard way why I am the true Apex Predator of the North."

 

[The Yeti drops the microphone, the crowd buzzing with anticipation as he exits the ring, leaving an icy aura in his wake. As he walks up the ramp he stops midway and releases his ferocious Yeti growl.]

[Cut to black.]

 

 

Match #4:  ‘Viperfang’ Korbi Kong w/ Count Vlad vs Dixie Caverns

 

For our next match, Dixie Caverns comes out to a nice pop from the crowd.  She shakes hands with the fans and climbs into the ring.  Next we hear “KORBI KONG SMASH” and the now “Viperfang” makes her way out to massive booing from the crowd.  Count Vlad joins her on the stage and the two head to the ring.  Korbi has a very smug look on her face as she passes by the fans who boo as loud as they could.  She climbs into the ring and does some showboating but then the bell rings to start the match.

Dixie starts off hitting the Candy dish but Korbi delivers a huge scoop powerslam.  She goes for the pin but only gets a 1 count.  Korbi distracts the ref and Count Vlad hits Dixie with a Transylvanian Spike.  Korbi tries to roll Dixie up for a quick pin but only gets another 1 count.   Dixie connects with a diving crossbody but Korbi immediately begins jaw jacking with the ref distracting him.  Dixie climbs to the top turnbuckle but Vlad gets on the apron again and hits another Transylvania Spike.  Dixie falls into the ring.  Korbi rushes over and makes the cover and with a handful of tights, she gets the 1-2-3.   Korbi gets the win in only 3 minutes.  She doesn’t have much time to showboat as Luciana Albano rushes out and attacks Korbi.  Korbi cost Luciana her shot at the Ladies World Title and Luciana wanted revenge.  Luciana managed to overwhelm Korbi but then the Ladies World Champion Selena Blackfang rushes out and attacks Luciana giving Korbi a chance to recover.  Korbi is back on her feet and she and Selena double team Luciana with both ladies hitting her with their finishing moves.  Count Vlad joins his two ladies in the ring and raises both their arms in victory.  The Dark Dominion leave the ring while the ref checks on Luciana.  Luciana ends up pushing the ref away and heads to the back under her own power.

 

Ruth Heartless is backstage with Sterling Silverman, TV Champion Evan Stockwell, and the World Champion the Rich Athlete.  Ruth says she was conferring with her team and they promise that they will not bow to the Dark Dominion and will stand against them at every turn.  Ruth sends a message to Count Vlad and says that war is coming.

 

 

Match #5:  The Morningstar w/ Count Vlad vs O.P. Cunningham

 

OP Cunningham comes out first to a solid pop from the crowd.  He shakes hands with the fans and makes his way into the ring.  Almost immediately, the lights go dim and Count Vlad is back out again and this time, he is with Hell’s Fang – the Morningstar.  They are booed heavily as they make their way to the ring.

 

The tension is palpable as Count Vlad accompanies Hell's Fang, the Morningstar, to the ring. The Morningstar is set to face Otis Peabody (OP) Cunningham in what promises to be a brutal showdown. As Count Vlad takes his place at the commentary table, he addresses the recent comments made by Ruth Heartless.

 

Count Vlad: "Ruth Heartless has declared war on the Dark Dominion, promising that her team will not bow to us and will stand against us at every turn. Let me remind Ruth and her so-called warriors that war is what we thrive on. The Dark Dominion will show no mercy."

 

The bell rings, and the match begins. The Morningstar starts strong with a Corkscrew Elbow Drop, but OP counters with an Overhead Belly to Belly Suplex, showcasing his strength and athleticism.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "Both men are wasting no time! The Morningstar and OP are going all out!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "This is going to be a slugfest! The fans are in for a treat!"

 

OP gains the upper hand with an Electric Chair Facebuster, but the Morningstar fights back with a Necromancer's Delight Half Nelson Choke, trying to wear down his opponent. The intensity is high as both wrestlers exchange powerful moves.

 

Count Vlad: "The Morningstar is showing why he is a force to be reckoned with. The Dark Dominion's dominance will not be challenged."

 

The Morningstar continues his assault with a Loaded Punch and another Corkscrew Elbow Drop, but OP proves resilient, countering with a Falling Power Slam and a Clothesline. The crowd is on the edge of their seats as the match remains evenly contested.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "OP is giving it his all! This match could go either way!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "The Morningstar needs to dig deep if he wants to come out on top!"

 

Count Vlad's presence at ringside adds an extra layer of tension. At a crucial moment, Vlad hits OP with the Transylvania Spike, giving the Morningstar an advantage. The Morningstar capitalizes with a Full Nelson Choke Suplex and another Corkscrew Elbow Drop.

 

Count Vlad: "This is the power of the Dark Dominion! We always find a way to win."

 

The Morningstar straps in a Muta Lock, and despite OP's valiant efforts, he is unable to escape and submits to the hold.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "The Morningstar wins! What a dominant performance!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "OP put up a great fight, but the Dark Dominion's influence was too strong!"

 

As the Morningstar celebrates his victory, Count Vlad joins him in the ring, raising his hand in triumph. Suddenly, The Million Dollar Alliance rushes out and attacks the Morningstar. The Rich Athlete delivers a relentless beatdown, much to the shock of the audience.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "What's this? The Million Dollar Alliance is ambushing the Morningstar! This is chaos!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "The Rich Athlete is delivering a ton of punishment! The Morningstar is in trouble!"

 

Just as it seems the Morningstar is overwhelmed, the Fangs of Despair and the Nightstalkers rush out to even the odds. Ruth Heartless and her team back up the ramp, smiling, knowing they have outwitted Count Vlad.

 

Mike "the Voice" Johnson: "The cavalry has arrived! The Fangs of Despair and the Nightstalkers are here to save the Morningstar!"

 

Johnny "the Hammer" Harris: "Ruth Heartless is retreating, but she's sending a clear message. This war is far from over!"

 

The Rich Athlete grabs a mic and addresses the Morningstar.

 

The Rich Athlete: "Morningstar, I will meet you at the PPV and show you what true dominance looks like!"

 

The crowd is left buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming PPV clash. The stage is set for an epic battle, and the excitement is palpable.  Count Vlad and the Morningstar head to the back.

 

[Backstage Promo - The British Crippler]

 

The camera cuts to the backstage area where the British Crippler stands, her intense gaze fixed on the camera.

 

The British Crippler: "Ashley 'Diamond' Summers, you may call yourself the Heritage Women's Champion, but tonight, your reign ends. I'm here to break your spirit and take that title. Ruth Heartless and her Million Dollar Alliance won't save you. The only thing you'll be left with is the bitter taste of defeat. Get ready, Summers, because the Crippler is here to crush your dreams and claim what's rightfully mine."

 

The camera then shifts to Ashley 'Diamond' Summers, standing confidently beside Ruth Heartless. Ruth steps forward to address the challenge.

 

Ruth Heartless: "British Crippler, you talk a big game, but you're stepping into the ring with the best. Ashley 'Diamond' Summers is a champion for a reason, and tonight, she'll prove why the Million Dollar Alliance is untouchable. We don't bow to anyone, especially not the Dark Dominion. War may be coming, but we're ready for battle. Ashley, show them what true dominance looks like."

 

Ashley 'Diamond' Summers steps forward, her eyes filled with determination.

 

Ashley 'Diamond' Summers: "Crippler, you want this title? Come and get it. But remember, when you step into the ring with me, you're facing the Diamond, unbreakable and unbeatable. Tonight, I'll show you and the world why I am the Heritage Women's Champion."

 

The camera fades out as the anticipation for the upcoming match builds.

 

 

Match #6:  The Main Event:  Heritage Women’s Title:  Ashley Summers w/Ruth Heartless vs the British Crippler

 

The British Crippler makes her way out first to a mixed reaction from the crowd.  She gets in the ring and begins posing.  The music changes and out comes the Heritage Women’s Champion Ashley ‘Diamond’ Summers with her manager Ruth Heartless by her side.   Ashley holds her title high and then begins walking to the ring.  She climbs into the ring and then climbs the turnbuckle holding her title high as the fans give her a mixture of cheers and boos.  She steps down and hands the title to the ref.  The bell rings and this one is under way.

 

The British Crippler starts off with a huge bodyslam.  The champ gets up and knocks her challenger out of the ring.  She follows her out and the two brawl.  Ashley is thrown against the ring but she managed to slam Crippler’s head on the steel steps.  Ashley rolls back in and distracts the ref.  Ruth sprays something into the Crippler’s face blinding her.  The ref makes the count and gets to 10 before the Crippler is able to make it back into the ring.  This one is over almost as soon as it started.  Ashley retains her title on a count out but she is ok with that.  The Crippler is helped to the back. 

 

[In-Ring Promo - Post-Match]

 

Ashley 'Diamond' Summers grabs a microphone and stands tall in the ring, her championship belt gleaming on her shoulder.

 

Ashley 'Diamond' Summers: "Luciana Albano, get out here!"

 

The crowd buzzes with anticipation as Luciana Albano's music hits. She makes her way to the ring, still showing signs of the earlier attack by Korbi Kong and Selena Blackfang. The two women stand face-to-face, tension palpable in the air.

 

Ashley 'Diamond' Summers: "Luciana, I saw what happened earlier tonight. The Dark Dominion thinks they can take us down one by one, but they're wrong. We need to stand together against them. I'm willing to be in your corner when you take on Korbi Kong and Selena Blackfang. What do you say?"

 

Luciana Albano takes a moment to consider, then raises the mic to her lips.

 

Luciana Albano: "Ashley, I appreciate the offer. The Dark Dominion is a menace that needs to be dealt with. But make no mistake, this is a partnership of convenience. I was the inaugural Heritage Women's Champion, and once we've dealt with the Dark Dominion, I'm coming back for 'my' title. That championship will be mine again."

 

Ashley nods, acknowledging Luciana's words. The two women stare each other down, the crowd eagerly watching the drama unfold.

 

Ashley 'Diamond' Summers: "Fine by me, Luciana. Just know that when you come for this title, you'll have to bring everything you've got. Until then, let's show everyone why we're the most dominant force in this business."

 

The tension breaks as the two women extend their hands and shake, forming an uneasy alliance. The crowd erupts in mixed reactions, sensing the power shift in the Women's Division.

 

Luciana Albano: "The Dark Dominion won't know what hit them. Let's make sure they regret ever crossing us."

 

The camera focuses on the two women, standing tall in the ring, as the show fades to black, leaving the audience in suspense for the upcoming battles.

 

There is a lot more to cover as we head towards the PPV so be sure to stay tuned.