HCW Wrestling Newsletter 2024 #1028 – 8/18 – Who are the Dark Dominion?

Hello fans and welcome to another installment of the HCW Wrestling Newsletter.  Today we will not be discussing any matches but will dive into the bios and history of the newest faction the Dark Dominion.  We already know about the infamous Dr. Red Fang but let’s get to the other members of the faction. 

 

Count Vlad

Real Name: Vladislav Dragomir

              

 

Backstory: Count Vladislav Dragomir, known simply as Count Vlad, hails from a noble lineage steeped in mystery and power. Born in the heart of Transylvania, Vlad grew up in the shadow of his family’s ancient castle, surrounded by legends of his ancestors’ dark and formidable reign. From a young age, he was trained in the arts of combat, strategy, and leadership, preparing him to uphold his family’s legacy.

Vlad’s family was known for their mastery of both physical and psychological warfare, using fear and cunning to maintain their dominance. As a young man, Vlad traveled across Europe, honing his skills and gathering knowledge from various martial traditions. His journey led him to secret societies and ancient orders, where he learned the secrets of manipulation and control.

 

Upon returning to his homeland, Vlad found his family’s influence waning. Determined to restore their former glory, he turned his attention to the world of professional wrestling, seeing it as a modern arena where he could wield his power and influence. Adopting the persona of Count Vlad, he quickly rose through the ranks, using his charisma and tactical mind to build alliances and crush his opponents.

 

Role in HCW:

Count Vlad’s arrival in Heritage Championship Wrestling marks a new chapter in his quest for dominance. Taking over the management of the Fangs of Despair from the Ambassador, he brings a new level of sophistication and ruthlessness to the stable. His aristocratic demeanor and strategic brilliance make him a natural leader, capable of inspiring loyalty and fear in equal measure.

 

Vision for the Stable:

Count Vlad envisions the Fangs of Despair as an unstoppable force (much like the new Bloodline under Solo Sikoa). With Dr. Red Fang, Nightfang, Shadowfang, and Bloodfang by his side, he aims to create a dynasty that will rule HCW with an iron fist. Each member of the stable is chosen for their unique abilities and unwavering loyalty, forming a cohesive unit that embodies Vlad’s vision of power and control.  Although each member of the stable acts as an ‘enforcer’, Vlad will be bringing in his brother Beastfang to fill that role.

 

Count Vlad’s ultimate goal is to establish a legacy that will be remembered for generations, both in the wrestling world and beyond. His presence in HCW is not just about winning matches but about creating a lasting impact that will echo through the annals of wrestling history.

 

1. Nightfang

Real Name: Unknown

Gimmick: Dark and mysterious, Nightfang is a brooding presence in the ring. He embodies the archetype of the enigmatic loner, often seen lurking in the shadows before pouncing on his opponents with lightning-fast strikes.

Appearance: Dressed in black from head to toe, Nightfang cuts an imposing figure with his sleek, form-fitting attire and menacing mask. His eyes burn with intensity from behind the mask, adding to his aura of mystique.

Fighting Style: Nightfang is known for his agility and speed, utilizing a combination of high-flying maneuvers and quick strikes to keep his opponents off balance. He is also adept at using his surroundings to his advantage, often incorporating elements of the environment into his offense.

Personality: Reserved and aloof, Nightfang rarely speaks outside of the ring, preferring to let his actions do the talking. He exudes an air of confidence bordering on arrogance, confident in his abilities to overcome any challenge that comes his way.

Backstory: The origins of Nightfang are shrouded in mystery, with rumors circulating about his past and true identity. Some say he is a lone vigilante seeking justice in the darkness, while others claim he is a supernatural entity drawn to the world of wrestling by some unseen force. Regardless of the truth, Nightfang remains a force to be reckoned with in the HCW arena, striking fear into the hearts of his opponents with every step he takes.

 

2. Shadowfang

Real Name: Marcus Black

 

 

 

Backstory: Marcus Black, known in the ring as Shadowfang, was once a feared enforcer in the underground fight clubs of Eastern Europe. His brutal fighting style and mysterious aura earned him the nickname “Shadowfang.” Marcus was discovered by Count Vlad during a clandestine tournament in Transylvania, where he was undefeated. Impressed by his raw power and ruthless efficiency, Count Vlad offered him a place in the Dark Dominion, promising him greater glory and power. Shadowfang’s dark past and loyalty to Count Vlad make him a formidable addition to the stable.

 

3.  Bloodfang

Real Name: Viktor Drakov

 

Backstory: Viktor Drakov, or Bloodfang, hails from a lineage of legendary hunters in the Carpathian Mountains. Trained in the art of tracking and combat from a young age, Viktor became known for his uncanny ability to “sniff out” his opponents’ weaknesses. His family was once loyal to Count Vlad’s ancestors, and Viktor sees joining the Dark Dominion as a way to honor his heritage and reclaim his family’s lost honor. With his keen instincts and relentless pursuit, Bloodfang is a perfect fit for the stable, bringing a blend of tradition and ferocity.

 

 

4.  Widow's Fang

Real Name: Selina Blackfang

Background: Selina Blackfang grew up in the shadowy underbelly of a crime-ridden city, learning to survive through cunning and ruthlessness. She adopted the moniker Widow's Bite after avenging the death of her mentor, a legendary assassin known as the Black Widow. With her lethal combination of speed, agility, and martial arts prowess, she became a feared figure in underground fighting circles. Drawn by Count Vlad’s vision, she joins his stable to unleash her full potential in the world of professional wrestling.

 

Gimmick: Widow's Bite's character is a femme fatale with a deadly edge. She enters the ring with a cold, calculating demeanor, dressed in dark, spider-themed attire. Her fighting style is a blend of high-flying maneuvers and precise strikes, often targeting her opponent’s weak points with surgical precision.

 

 

5. Beastfang

Real Name: Unknown

Role: Enforcer of the Dark Dominion

 

Background: Beastfang is the younger brother of Count Vlad, kept hidden away due to his uncontrollable rage and immense power. Trained in the darkest arts of wrestling, Beastfang is a force of nature, feared by all who face him. His loyalty to Count Vlad and the Dark Dominion is unwavering, and his presence adds a new level of danger to the faction.

 

Appearance: Beastfang is a towering figure, with a muscular build and a menacing presence. He wears a mask that covers his face, adding to his mystique and intimidation. His attire is dark and tattered, reflecting his brutal nature.

 

And rounding out the team, everyone’s favorite vampire bot Dr. Red Fang.

             

 

Stable Name: The Dark Dominion

 

Backstory for the Stable

Count Vlad, a mysterious and charismatic figure with an aristocratic bearing, has taken over the management of the Fangs of Despair. Under his leadership, the team evolves into a more formidable and unified force. Count Vlad’s vision is to create a stable that embodies the essence of fear and darkness, drawing from the shadows to dominate the wrestling world.

 

Formation of the Stable: Upon taking charge, Count Vlad identifies Shadowfang, Bloodfang, and Widow's Bite as perfect additions to his sinister ensemble. He promises them power and glory in exchange for their loyalty. United by their dark pasts and a common goal, they form an unbreakable bond, ready to terrorize the HCW roster.

 

Stable Dynamics

Count Vlad, with his aristocratic demeanor and strategic mind, will lead this new stable with a vision of dominance and fear. Dr. Red Fang and Nightfang, already established members, will serve as the core, while Shadowfang and Bloodfang will add new layers of intimidation and skill. Together, they will form a cohesive unit, each member bringing unique strengths to the table. 

 

Mission: The Dark Dominion aims to control HCW through fear and intimidation, using their unique blend of psychological warfare, agility, and brute strength. With Count Vlad at the helm, they seek to establish a new era of darkness and despair in professional wrestling.

 

Now that we know what we’re up against, stay tuned to see what destruction they sow.

HCW Wrestling Newsletter 2024 #1027 – 8/17

Hello wrestling fans and welcome to another installment of the HCW Wrestling Newsletter.  As we been seeing over the last couple of shows, Count Vlad has been solidifying talent for his new faction the Dark Dominion.   Getting that many vicious people under one roof can’t be a good thing for the rest of the roster.  Let’s get to the action.

 

Match #1:  Azrael w/the Ambassador vs Outback Oscar

 

Outback Oscar makes his way out first to a nice pop from the crowd.  He makes his way to the ring high fiving with the fans and enters the ring.  He waits for his opponent but doesn’t wait long.  Azrael comes out with his manager the Ambassador to booing from the crowd.  They make their way to the ring as a chorus of booing follows them to the ring.  Azrael climbs in and the bell rings starting this one off.

 

The action kicked off with Azrael applying a side headlock, but Outback Oscar quickly countered with a swinging neckbreaker. Azrael’s leg drop was met with a strong defense from Oscar, who managed to score despite the attack. Both wrestlers traded high-impact moves, with Azrael executing a slingshot suplex and Oscar responding with an Australian leg sweep.

 

As the match progressed, Outback Oscar threw Azrael out of the ring, but Azrael made it back just in time to avoid a count-out. The intensity continued with both men executing powerful moves, including Azrael’s spear and Oscar’s full nelson face smash. Despite The Ambassador’s interference, Outback Oscar maintained his momentum, even attacking The Ambassador to neutralize his influence for several rounds.

 

In the final moments, Outback Oscar’s relentless offense, including multiple swinging neckbreakers and knee drops, proved too much for Azrael. The match culminated with Outback Oscar executing a spinning elbow drop, securing the pinfall victory over Azrael. The crowd erupted in cheers as Outback Oscar celebrated his hard-fought win.

 

Oscar celebrates with the fans as a disappointed Azrael heads to the back.   The Ambassador surprisingly was no help to him even though he interfered once. 

 

Backstage Segment

[The camera cuts to the backstage area where Count Vlad is seen conversing with Selena Blackfang and Beastfang. Suddenly, Tommy ‘the Morningstar’ Sullivan approaches with a determined look on his face.]

Tommy Sullivan: Count Vlad, I’ve been watching closely, and I must say, I like what I’ve seen with the Fangs of Despair and the Night Stalkers. I want in. I want you to manage me moving forward.

[Count Vlad raises an eyebrow, a sly smile forming on his lips.]

Count Vlad: Tommy, your ambition is commendable. I see a fierceness in you. Let me talk to the Ambassador tonight and see if we can get this sorted out.

Tommy Sullivan: Thank you Count.  I look forward to hearing the outcome.

 

The Morningstar walks away and as we cut back to the Count, the sly smile returns. 

 

 

Match #2:  Steel Justice vs the Dynamic Duo to see who gets the next Tag Team title shot at the PPV

 

Tonight, we will see who is going to the PPV to challenge the New Sicilians for the titles.  First, before either team comes out, the New Sicilians – Dick and Vinnie Albano – make their way out to sit at ringside.   The crowd boos them harshly as they take their place at commentary.  The Dynamic Duo – Mike Matthews and Chris Thompson – come out first to a solid pop from the crowd.  Steel Justice gets a similar reaction and head to the ring with their manager the Shadow Master.  Chris stops them before they get in the ring and ask if they can keep the match as civil as possible and ask if their manager not be involved.  Steel Justice confer with their manager and the Shadow Master agrees to head to the back.  All 4 men get into the ring and the bell rings starting the action. 

 

The match between Steel Justice and the Dynamic Duo was a showcase of athleticism and teamwork, with both teams earning the respect of the crowd. The New Sicilians, the reigning world tag team champions and notorious heels, provided their own brand of commentary throughout the bout.

 

The action began with Kellyn ‘The Raven Archer’ Chrisari applying a Raven’s Claw Neck Pinch on Chris “Thunderstrike” Thompson.

 

Commentator 1 exclaimed, “What a start by Chrisari!”

Commentator 2 added, “Thompson is in trouble early on.”

 

The Dynamic Duo struggled to counter the relentless double-teaming from Steel Justice, who executed a series of high-flying and powerful moves, including the Arrow Storm Kick and Justice Dive to the outside. Dirty Dick Albano sneered, “These guys think they can match us? Pathetic.”

 

Chris “Thunderstrike” Thompson managed to tag in Mike ‘The Rebel’ Matthews, who brought a fresh burst of energy with an elbow smash and shoulder breaker.

 

Commentator 1 noted, “Matthews is turning the tide!” but Vicious Vinnie Albano scoffed, “Please, this is nothing compared to what we do.”

 

Despite the Dynamic Duo’s efforts, Steel Justice continued to dominate with their signature moves. Alex ‘Skyhawk’ Justice’s Skyhawk Soar Moonsault and Wings Embrace Flying Crossbody had the crowd on their feet.

 

Commentator 2 remarked, “Justice is flying high tonight!” only for Dirty Dick Albano to retort, “Enjoy it while it lasts, because they’ll never touch our titles.”

 

In the final moments, Alex ‘Skyhawk’ Justice executed a Heavenly Hammer DDT on Chris “Thunderstrike” Thompson, securing the pinfall victory.

 

Commentator 1 cheered, “What a finish by Steel Justice!” but Vicious Vinnie Albano dismissed it, saying, “Lucky break. They wouldn’t last five minutes with us.”

 

The match ended with mutual respect between the teams, setting the stage for potential future encounters, while the New Sicilians continued to boast about their superiority.

 

Both teams glared at the Albanos until they left and then celebrated with the fans once again shaking hands before they all headed to the back.

 

 

Match #3:  Luciana Albano vs Leslie Grimes

 

Leslie Grimes made her way out first to a nice pop from the crowd.  Once her opponent Luciana Albano came out with her manager Pierre Boulay, they turned sour.  Luciana glared at the fans and sneered as she made her way into the ring. 

 

In a high-stakes HCW Wrestling match, Leslie Grimes faced off against Luciana Albano, who was accompanied by her scheming manager, Pierre Boulay. The match began with Luciana gaining an early advantage through a Vertical Suplex and a Full Nelson Slam, quickly building a lead. Leslie fought back with a Diving Crossbody and a Lou Thesz Press, managing to narrow the gap. As the match progressed, both competitors exchanged powerful moves, including a Hair Mare from Leslie and a Nightmare Lock Inverted Cloverleaf from Luciana, which Leslie managed to endure despite intense pain.

 

In the later stages, Luciana's underhanded tactics, aided by Pierre Boulay's interference, played a crucial role. Luciana's attacks, including a Riptide Pumphandle Bomb and a Belly to Back Pendulum Facebuster, kept Leslie on the defensive. Despite Leslie's valiant efforts and some dramatic moments, including a successful Roll-Up and Moonsault, Luciana's persistent aggression and a decisive chair shot from Pierre Boulay ultimately led to her pinning Leslie for the win just before the bell rang ending this 30 minute bout. Luciana Albano emerged victorious, having outlasted Leslie Grimes through a mix of brute strength and devious tactics.

 

Luciana gets the win as the fans boo her loudly.  She tells Pierre to get a mic and she exclaims that she will once again get the Ladies title when she defeats Korbi Kong.  She reminds us that she has a Money in the Bank contract that she can cash in whenever she wants.  Luciana and Pierre then leave.

 

[The scene transitions to later in the evening. Count Vlad is seen in a heated discussion with the Ambassador in a dimly lit office of GM Max McGillicutty. The tension is palpable as the negotiations continue.]

Count Vlad: Ambassador, let’s cut to the chase. I want The Morningstar in the Dark Dominion. I have given you a very fair value to make it worth your time.

 

Ambassador: Count Vlad, you drive a hard bargain, but I can’t deny the lucrative compensation you’re offering. Fine, you can have Tommy’s contract.

 

[The Ambassador signs the contract, and Count Vlad hands over a briefcase filled with cash. The Ambassador smirks, satisfied with the deal.]

 

Ambassador: Well, Vlad, it’s been a pleasure doing business with you. But now, I’m taking my paychecks and heading to other pastures. HCW is no longer my concern. I’ve built my empire here, and now it’s time to expand my horizons. The wrestling world is vast, and there are new opportunities waiting for me. I’ve done all I can in HCW, and it’s time for fresh challenges and new conquests. To all the naysayers, I leave you with this: the Ambassador’s legacy will be remembered.  Farewell, HCW. It’s been a wild ride, but my ambitions lie beyond these walls.

 

[As the Ambassador turns to leave, Azrael steps into the frame, a look of confusion on his face.]

 

Azrael: Ambassador, what does this mean for me?

 

[The Ambassador shrugs nonchalantly.]

 

Ambassador: I don’t care… do what you want.

 

[With that, the Ambassador walks off, leaving Azrael standing there, stunned. Count Vlad approaches Azrael, placing a hand on his shoulder.]

 

Count Vlad: Azrael, it seems you are now free to make your own choices. The Dark Dominion always has room for those who seek power and dominance. Think about it.

 

[The camera fades out as Count Vlad walks away, leaving Azrael deep in thought.]

 

 

Match #4:  The Rich Athlete vs Adam Jameson

 

In an intense wrestling showdown, Adam Jameson clashed with the Rich Athlete, who was flanked by his shrewd manager, Ruth Heartless. The match started with the Rich Athlete delivering a Shin Breaker, putting him ahead early. Adam Jameson fought back with a powerful Gut Buster, showcasing his resilience. As the match progressed, both competitors exchanged a series of impactful moves, with the Rich Athlete executing a Million Dollar Kneedrop and a Seven-Figure Suplex, while Adam Jameson responded with a Spin Kick and a Reverse STF.

 

Despite Adam's determined efforts, including neutralizing some of the Rich Athlete's moves and escaping pin attempts, Ruth Heartless's interference added to the Rich Athlete's advantage. The turning point came when the Rich Athlete delivered a final Seven-Figure Suplex, leading to a decisive pin. Despite a valiant effort from Adam Jameson, he was ultimately pinned by the Rich Athlete, who claimed victory with a combination of skill and managerial tactics.

 

At the end of the match, the Rich Athlete got on the mic and started badmouthing the US Champion Zack Brown which led to him coming out to the ring.  The Commando got in the ring and the two began jaw jacking until punches started getting thrown.  Security rushed out to break it up.  GM Max McGillicutty came out and said that these two men were officially being added to the PPV event.  Zack and the Rich Athlete got what they wanted and continued to jaw jack until the Rich Athlete left with Ruth and Zack eventually followed. 

 

Backstage, Duke Knight says he’s earned the opportunity to face the Hardcore Champion Jax Brenner.  He looks forward to taking on the Alaskan Wildman.

 

Match #5:  The Main Event:  Six Man Tag Team Title Match.  Dominic Marconi, Alejandro Guerrero and JR Fargo vs Jesse California, TNT and Otto Ruthless.

 

The heels came out first to massive booing from the crowd.  They had words with the fans as they made their way to the ring.  Once they had their time, the champs make their way out to the loudest pop of the night.  ‘The Italian Thoroughbred’ Dominic Marconi, Alejandro Guerrero, and ‘the Magnificent One’ Juan Raul Fargo stand on the stage holding their titles high as the fans get louder and louder.  The trio make their way to the ring and enter through the ropes.  Each man went to a corner turnbuckle and held their title high.  They step down and hand the belts to the ref .  Before the match can actually begin, the Fangs of Despair come in from the crowd and take Alejandro into the crowd and out of this match.  The ref has no idea what happened but JR said they will continue.

 

The match began with Dominic Marconi and JR Fargo double-teaming Jesse California, delivering a powerful forearm and a double elbow smash. Despite his efforts, Jesse California couldn’t fend off the attack.

 

Marconi continued his dominance with a hip roll, but Jesse California managed to land a standing dropkick before tagging in Otto Ruthless. Otto came in strong with a short clothesline, but Marconi absorbed the blow and retaliated with a front face lock. Otto countered with his signature Ruthless Aggression and tagged in TNT.

 

Marconi hit TNT with a flying dropkick and attempted a pin, but TNT kicked out. TNT then tried to hurl Marconi out of the ring, but Marconi reversed it and executed a head-first body slam. Another pin attempt was thwarted by Otto Ruthless making the save.

 

The action continued with Marconi applying a Boston Crab, only for TNT to counter with the Townsend Driver. Marconi responded with power forearms, but TNT executed a standing suplex. Marconi tagged in

JR Fargo, who absorbed a flying dropkick from TNT.

 

JR Fargo fought back with an atomic drop and attempted a pin, but TNT kicked out. Fargo continued his assault with another atomic drop, but TNT kicked out again. TNT then landed a jaw jacker, but Fargo retaliated with a magnificent body slam and another pin attempt, which TNT kicked out of.

 

The match saw TNT executing a powerbomb and attempting a pin, but Fargo kicked out. Fargo then neutralized a jaw jacker and delivered a kick and stomp, which TNT reversed into a flying dropkick. Fargo reversed the dropkick and hit another atomic drop, but Otto Ruthless made the save.

 

Marconi tagged back in and applied a front face lock on TNT. Despite absorbing the punishment, TNT couldn’t escape, and Marconi secured the pinfall victory with a front face lock, winning the match for his team.

 

The champions, Dominic Marconi, Alejandro Guerrero, and JR Fargo, emerged victorious in a thrilling contest, showcasing their resilience and teamwork.  (19 min)

 

At the end of the match, the Nightstalkers – Bloodfang and Shadowfang – hit the ring and attack the champs.  Beastfang joins in and it’s a total annihilation.  After an exhaustive 19 minutes, the champs could not stop the onslaught of the Dark Dominion.  Count Vlad gets on the mic and asks Dominic if they are willing to put the titles on the line at the PPV against the Fangs of Despair and Beastfang.  Restrained, he had nowhere to go and accepted on behalf of his team.  JR and Dominic are hurled from the ring.  Alejandro is dragged back to the ring and dumped with his teammates.  The Dark Dominion stands tall in the ring as the fans boo them mercilessly. 

 

We have another match made for the PPV so stay tuned to see how this plays out.