WCW Presents: Halloween Havoc
10/19/1997
Las Vegas, Nevada (MGM Grand Arena)
WCW World Title Match
Hollywood Hogan© with Randy Savage vs Diamond Dallas Page with Lex Luger
Storyline: For years, Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) has been fighting to prove himself as one of WCW’s top stars. Despite facing constant roadblocks and being overlooked, DDP’s hard work and resilience have finally paid off. At the previous PPV, DDP shocked the world by defeating Randy Savage, a cornerstone of the nWo, in a brutal and hard-fought match. This victory was a pivotal moment in DDP’s career, as it earned him the long-awaited opportunity to challenge Hollywood Hogan for the WCW World Title at Halloween Havoc. However, DDP knows that challenging Hogan means more than just a title match—he’s up against the entire nWo. Hogan has been using every dirty trick in the book to retain the championship, and with Randy Savage in his corner, DDP is facing overwhelming odds. Enter Lex Luger. Despite his own ambitions to challenge Hogan for the World Title, Luger sees the bigger picture. Luger knows that the nWo’s grip on WCW must be broken, and DDP stands as the best chance to dethrone Hogan. Reluctantly, Luger agrees to align with DDP, but tension simmers between the two. Luger believes he should be the one in the main event against Hogan, but for now, he's willing to stand by DDP’s side to help WCW regain control. This uneasy alliance adds a layer of complexity to the match, as Luger must put his personal aspirations aside for the greater good—at least for now. Meanwhile, Sting has been lurking in the shadows, the ultimate wild card in the war between WCW and the nWo. Having been absent from the ring for months, Sting watches over the battle for WCW from the rafters, biding his time to make his return. His presence looms large over the match, as no one knows when he might strike or who he will target. While DDP and Luger prepare for the battle of their lives against Hogan and Savage, everyone in the arena knows that Sting could appear at any moment, either to aid WCW or to pursue his own agenda. As Halloween Havoc 1997 approaches, the stakes have never been higher. For DDP, this is his moment to finally break into the main event scene and take down the nWo’s leader. With Luger’s help, DDP has a chance to pull off the unthinkable and bring the WCW World Title back home. But with the nWo’s devious tactics, Luger’s lingering jealousy, and the ever-present threat of Sting, nothing is certain in this high-stakes encounter.
Grudge Match
Bret Hart and Davey Boy Smith vs Ric Flair and Arn Anderson
Storyline: After his dramatic arrival in WCW and his alignment with the Hart Foundation, Bret Hart made it clear that his ultimate goal was to become the WCW World Heavyweight Champion and finally restore honor and wrestling excellence to the company. However, as Bret Hart began his climb toward the top, he quickly found himself entangled in a bitter feud with none other than Ric Flair and the Four Horsemen. The Four Horsemen, led by Flair, see Bret’s arrival as a direct threat to their legacy. Flair has always prided himself on being the ultimate symbol of wrestling excellence in WCW, and the idea of Bret Hart surpassing him and taking the WCW World Title is something Flair cannot stand. Despite Bret’s intentions to focus on Hollywood Hogan and the nWo, Flair and his Horsemen—Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko, and Jeff Jarrett—make it their mission to derail Bret’s journey to the top. The Horsemen, now fully embracing their roles as heels, launch a campaign against the Hart Foundation, attacking Bret, Davey Boy Smith, Owen Hart, and Test whenever the opportunity arises. Flair cuts scathing promos, accusing Bret of trying to "rewrite history" and take the spotlight that Flair believes still belongs to him. Flair’s jealousy and fear of being replaced as the face of wrestling excellence fuel this rivalry, with Flair declaring that WCW will always be Horsemen territory. As Bret’s quest for the WCW World Title becomes increasingly complicated by the Horsemen’s constant interference, he grows frustrated but remains determined. Bret, ever the honorable fighter, refuses to back down from Flair’s provocations, knowing that beating Flair and the Horsemen is the only way to truly clear his path to the World Title. Bret wants to prove that he is the new standard-bearer of technical wrestling, but Flair and his allies keep forcing the issue, turning what was once Bret’s title chase into a personal grudge. For Flair, it’s more than just about the WCW World Title—it’s about maintaining his status as the greatest of all time. He views Bret as an outsider trying to steal his legacy, and that drives Flair’s desire to humiliate Bret and the Hart Foundation. The Horsemen take every opportunity to interfere in Bret’s matches, preventing him from getting clean victories or advancing in the rankings toward a title shot against Hogan. With Davey Boy Smith, Owen Hart, and Test by his side, Bret rallies the Hart Foundation to push back against the Horsemen’s dirty tactics. The two factions engage in brutal brawls, leading to a heated confrontation at Halloween Havoc 1997, where Bret and Davey Boy face off against Ric Flair and Arn Anderson (who temporarily comes out of retirement to support his old friend). This feud isn’t just about titles—it’s about legacy and who truly represents the pinnacle of professional wrestling. The Hart Foundation, as faces, are fighting not only for Bret’s quest to become World Champion but also for the honor of wrestling itself. Meanwhile, the Four Horsemen, as heels, seek to maintain their control over WCW, refusing to let Bret or his family stake their claim. While this feud unfolds, Hollywood Hogan and the nWo are watching closely. They see the escalating war between the Hart Foundation and the Horsemen as an opportunity to divide WCW further, knowing that if Bret and Flair are focused on each other, it keeps the spotlight off the nWo’s domination of the World Title scene. Sting, lurking in the background, could be the wildcard who intervenes in this brewing war or lets it play out to weaken both factions. As Bret Hart battles against the Four Horsemen, his journey toward the WCW World Title becomes more challenging, but the war between these two legendary factions raises the stakes for everyone involved. Will Bret overcome Flair and the Horsemen’s interference to get back on track for a title shot against Hogan, or will Flair’s ego continue to stand in his way?
WCW US Title Match
Jeff Jarrett© vs Curt Hennig vs Owen Hart
Storyline: The WCW United States Championship has become one of the most prestigious titles in WCW, with three of the company’s top stars battling for it: Jeff Jarrett, the reigning champion representing the Four Horsemen; Curt Hennig, the ruthless veteran aligned with the nWo; and Owen Hart, fighting for the honor of the Hart Foundation. This triple-threat match is more than just about the title—it’s a high-stakes battle between three powerful factions, with each wrestler determined to prove that their group is the dominant force in WCW. Jeff Jarrett, the current WCW US Champion, has embraced his role as the cocky, arrogant representative of the Four Horsemen. Under the guidance of Ric Flair, Jarrett has taken on the mantle of "the chosen one" within the Horsemen, using underhanded tactics and sheer opportunism to maintain his grip on the title. Jarrett sees himself as the future of the Horsemen and WCW, and he’s determined to bring even more prestige to his name by defeating two of the best in the business. Jarrett’s confidence borders on arrogance, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to walk out of Halloween Havoc 1997 with his title intact. Curt Hennig, representing the nWo, brings his technical expertise and ruthless nature to the match. Since joining the nWo, Hennig has positioned himself as a top player, not just in the faction but in WCW as a whole. For Hennig, winning the US Title means bringing more power to the nWo and keeping the belt under their control. Hennig’s mastery of wrestling psychology and his experience make him one of the most dangerous competitors in WCW. His alignment with the nWo has only made him more cutthroat, and he sees this match as an opportunity to cement his place as the dominant force in the company. Hennig’s relationship with the nWo gives him an edge, as the faction is known for using outside interference and underhanded tactics to ensure victory. But Hennig also believes he doesn’t need help—his technical prowess, perfected over years of in-ring experience, makes him a dangerous foe for anyone who stands in his way. Owen Hart, representing the Hart Foundation, is entering this match with something to prove. Owen has always felt the pressure of living up to the Hart family legacy, but he’s determined to make his own mark in WCW. His brother Bret Hart may be leading the Hart Foundation in their feud with the Four Horsemen, but Owen’s pursuit of the WCW US Title is deeply personal. Winning this championship would allow Owen to step out of Bret’s shadow and solidify his place as one of the top stars in WCW. Unlike Hennig and Jarrett, Owen fights with honor and integrity, but he’s no stranger to using his technical brilliance and speed to outsmart his opponents. He knows both Jarrett and Hennig are willing to use underhanded tactics, but Owen believes his wrestling ability can overcome their dirty tricks. Owen has dedicated himself to taking down Hennig and Jarrett, not just for the Hart Foundation, but to prove that wrestling excellence still matters in a landscape dominated by factions and betrayals. This match is a battleground for faction pride. With Jarrett representing the Four Horsemen, Hennig carrying the flag for the nWo, and Owen Hart fighting for the Hart Foundation, the stakes go beyond the US Title itself. Each faction has been jostling for control in WCW, and this match will determine which group holds one of the most coveted titles in the company. The outcome will have ripple effects throughout WCW, as the winning faction will gain further momentum in the war for WCW’s soul.
Singles Match
Dustin Rhodes vs Triple H
Storyline: At War Games, the wrestling world was shaken when Triple H turned on his allies, the Four Horsemen, and aligned himself with the nWo. In the closing moments of the match, Triple H, once seen as a rising star within the Horsemen, shockingly attacked Ric Flair, leaving the Horsemen outnumbered and allowing the nWo to secure the victory. Triple H’s defection marked a major power shift, as the nWo gained a new, younger, and calculating member to replace the void left by the departing Outsiders. After his betrayal, Triple H explained that aligning with the Horsemen was never his true goal—he saw them as outdated and clinging to a legacy that no longer had a place in modern wrestling. Triple H, always a strategist, saw the nWo as the future and believed that joining forces with Hollywood Hogan and the nWo’s reign would elevate his career to new heights. He declared that the nWo represented true dominance, and he would no longer be held back by Flair's ego or the Horsemen’s need to relive their glory days. While Triple H’s betrayal of the Horsemen grabbed headlines, it also put him in the crosshairs of Dustin Rhodes. Dustin, a proud WCW loyalist who has always fought to protect the company from the nWo’s takeover, saw Triple H’s actions as a personal affront. Dustin, who prides himself on family legacy and honor, could not stand to watch Triple H turn his back on WCW, and their paths soon collided. Dustin, disgusted by Triple H’s willingness to betray his allies for power, has vowed to make him pay for aligning with the nWo. Their feud is not just about personal differences—it’s about the very soul of WCW. Dustin, representing the traditional values of loyalty and fighting for what’s right, stands in direct opposition to Triple H’s selfish ambition and thirst for control. The feud between Dustin Rhodes and Triple H is a battle of ideals as much as it is a physical contest. Dustin believes in the spirit of WCW and the importance of family, while Triple H has embraced the nWo’s "survival of the fittest" mentality. Their matches have been brutal, with neither man willing to back down. Jake "The Snake" Roberts, who manages several nWo members, including Mike Awesome, has also become involved, further fueling the intensity between Triple H and Rhodes by helping the nWo gain the upper hand in some of their encounters. Their rivalry is set to come to a head at Halloween Havoc 1997, where the two will face off in a high-stakes grudge match. For Dustin, this is about defending the honor of WCW and exposing Triple H for the traitor he is. For Triple H, it’s about proving that aligning with the nWo was the right move, and that he can overpower anyone who stands in his way. As their feud continues, the WCW audience is deeply invested in the outcome, with Dustin emerging as one of WCW’s most passionate defenders against the nWo’s domination. Meanwhile, Triple H, now fully embracing his role as a villain, is determined to crush Rhodes and further cement his place as one of the nWo’s key players.
WCW TV Title Match
Disco Inferno© vs Chris Jericho
Storyline: Disco Inferno has surprisingly become a fan favorite over the past few months, despite his flashy, dance-centric persona. The fans have rallied behind his resilience and underdog spirit as he continues to defy expectations and retain his WCW TV Title. Disco's carefree and entertaining style has made him a beloved champion, and he’s embraced the fans’ support, evolving from a comedic act to a respected competitor. On the other hand, Chris Jericho has grown increasingly frustrated with the attention Disco has been receiving. Jericho, now fully embracing his heel persona, believes that he deserves the spotlight and the TV Title. He views Disco as a joke and feels the fans are backing the wrong man. Jericho has been mocking Disco's dancing and his connection with the crowd, portraying himself as a superior athlete and technician. Jericho’s arrogance has made him one of the most despised wrestlers in WCW, as he continuously belittles Disco and the fans. As a result, the crowd is firmly behind Disco Inferno, cheering him on as he prepares to defend his title against Jericho’s ruthless ambition. This match will be a battle of Disco’s heart and determination versus Jericho’s technical skill and dirty tactics.
WCW Tag Team Title Match
The Steiner Brothers© vs Wrath and Mortis with Jake "The Snake" Roberts
Storyline: The Steiner Brothers have been dominant champions, using their blend of technical wrestling and sheer power to reign atop the WCW Tag Team Division. However, a new threat has emerged in the form of the dark and dangerous team of Wrath and Mortis, who are now under the guidance of the cunning and manipulative Jake "The Snake" Roberts. Roberts, known for his psychological warfare and mind games, has taken Wrath and Mortis under his wing, molding them into a deadly force. With Jake's influence, the team has been on a path of destruction, systematically dismantling their opponents while Roberts weaves his manipulative tactics from ringside. Jake's cold, calculated promos have left the Steiner Brothers on edge, as they know he’s always thinking three steps ahead. The Steiners know they are up against more than just a physically imposing team in Wrath and Mortis—they are also battling the sinister mind of Jake Roberts. This match will be a war between the brute strength and technical expertise of the Steiners versus the unorthodox, brutal style of Wrath and Mortis, all while Jake Roberts looks to tip the scales in favor of his dark protégés. The Steiners will have to fight not only to retain their titles but also to survive the mental and physical assault from their challengers and their twisted manager.
WCW Cruiserweight Title Match
Title vs Mask
Eddie Guerrero© vs Rey Mysterio Jr.
Storyline: The rivalry between Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio Jr. has reached a boiling point, with Eddie, the reigning WCW Cruiserweight Champion, constantly disrespecting Rey and questioning his heart. In a desperate bid to prove his worth and regain honor, Rey Mysterio agrees to put his mask on the line in a Title vs. Mask Match. For Rey, his mask is more than just part of his persona—it’s a symbol of his heritage and pride. Losing it would be a devastating blow. Eddie, known for his technical mastery and ruthless tactics, sees this as the ultimate opportunity to humiliate Rey and solidify his dominance in the cruiserweight division. The stakes couldn't be higher as these two legendary high-flyers clash in what promises to be a fast-paced, emotionally charged match.
Tag Team Match
The Legion of Doom vs Edge and Christian
Storyline: The Legion of Doom (Hawk and Animal) is one of the most legendary tag teams in professional wrestling history, and they’ve made it clear they’re not ready to be pushed aside by the younger generation. Edge and Christian, two rising stars in WCW, have set their sights on making a name for themselves by taking down the veterans. Edge and Christian see this match as their opportunity to prove that they belong at the top of the tag team division, while the Legion of Doom is determined to teach the rookies a lesson in toughness and experience. The clash between the old guard and the new generation will test both teams' mettle and could set the course for the future of the tag division.
This is the backstory for HH, but these are the other stories going around WCW.
Goldberg’s Winning Streak
Storyline: As 1997 progressed, WCW fans began to take notice of a dominant new force in the company: Bill Goldberg. Originally debuting with little fanfare, Goldberg quickly began racking up victories in devastating fashion, defeating opponents in mere minutes with his explosive combination of power, speed, and aggression. His signature moves, like the Spear and Jackhammer, quickly became fan favorites, and his relentless, no-nonsense style resonated with the WCW audience. By mid-1997, Goldberg’s undefeated streak became one of the most talked-about elements in WCW. Match after match, Goldberg plowed through established stars and rookies alike, building an aura of invincibility. WCW management and Commissioner Dusty Rhodes began promoting Goldberg’s undefeated record, officially recognizing the streak, which only added to his growing mystique. While factions like the nWo, the Hart Foundation, and the Four Horsemen waged war over control of WCW, Goldberg quietly but steadily rose through the ranks, refusing to get involved in politics or alliances. His only goal was victory, and he was unstoppable. Goldberg’s streak soon became a source of tension among WCW’s top stars, with wrestlers from all corners of the company wanting to be the one to end his undefeated run. As the streak grew, so did the challenges. Goldberg began defeating bigger names, including mid-card stars like Hugh Morris and Billy Kidman, and even taking out powerhouses like Mike Enos and Scott Norton. With every victory, Goldberg’s momentum grew. By the time Halloween Havoc 1997 rolled around, Goldberg had amassed an impressive record, firmly establishing himself as the next big thing in WCW. Although not involved in the faction warfare that was tearing WCW apart, Goldberg’s streak made him a looming threat for the future. Wrestlers in every faction, including the nWo and the Horsemen, were beginning to realize that Goldberg could soon set his sights on the biggest prizes in WCW. Goldberg’s rise was inevitable, and fans began chanting his name as they awaited his eventual challenge for the WCW World Title. His path of destruction showed no signs of slowing down, and his undefeated streak became one of the most exciting stories in professional wrestling.
Roddy Piper’s Crisis
Storyline: For the past year, Roddy Piper has been one of the most vocal and determined opponents of the nWo. He fought tooth and nail against Hollywood Hogan and his army of chaos, refusing to back down from the challenge of taking the fight to the nWo. But despite his best efforts, Piper has found himself outnumbered, outmaneuvered, and unable to truly dent the nWo’s grip on WCW. The brutal battles with Hogan, Randy Savage, and the nWo’s enforcers have taken a physical toll on the "Hot Rod." As Halloween Havoc 1997 approaches, Piper begins to show signs of doubt. His legendary toughness and defiance seem to be cracking under the weight of WCW’s ongoing war with the nWo. Week after week, Piper cuts increasingly somber promos, reflecting on his long career and his many battles. While he has always been the one to fight uphill battles, Piper starts to wonder aloud if he can still be the man WCW needs to fight against the nWo.
The Rise of WCW's Cruiserweight Division: Winning Fans Worldwide
Storyline: Throughout 1997, WCW’s Cruiserweight Division has become one of the most thrilling attractions, captivating audiences with fast-paced, high-flying action. Featuring a diverse range of talent, the division has developed a global following, standing out for its innovation and athleticism. While the heavyweight battles and faction warfare dominate the upper card, the Cruiserweights have become must-see performers, stealing the show and redefining what wrestling can be. At the forefront of this rise are stars like Rey Mysterio Jr., Eddie Guerrero, Chris Jericho, Jeff Hardy, Matt Hardy, and Hayabusa. Each of these wrestlers brings a unique style, blending lucha libre, technical wrestling, and aerial assaults that leave audiences in awe. Their combination of agility, speed, and daring maneuvers has made the Cruiserweight Division one of WCW’s biggest assets. Rey Mysterio Jr. continues to be the face of the division, his unparalleled high-flying style and resilience captivating fans worldwide. His intense rivalry with Eddie Guerrero over the Cruiserweight Title has set a new standard for in-ring storytelling, with their matches being recognized as some of the best in wrestling. Guerrero, embracing his technical prowess and underhanded tactics, has kept his hold on the title through sheer cunning, making every match feel like a battle of wills and skill. Joining the division are the Hardy Boys, Jeff and Matt, whose innovative offense has added even more excitement to the already electric Cruiserweight scene. Jeff Hardy’s risk-taking style and daredevil leaps have quickly made him a fan favorite, while Matt Hardy's resilience and craftiness have earned him respect among the WCW audience. Together, they bring a tag team dynamic to the division, while also showcasing their individual talents in singles competition. Hayabusa, with his fusion of martial arts, high-flying, and hardcore wrestling, adds an international flair to the division. His matches, filled with innovative offense and breathtaking dives, have brought a sense of unpredictability, making him one of the most exciting stars to watch in WCW. The Cruiserweight Division’s blend of international talent and styles has made it a global sensation. Fans from all over the world are tuning in to see the division’s stars push the limits of what’s possible in the ring. Rey Mysterio, Hayabusa, and the Hardys represent a new generation of wrestlers who emphasize athleticism and innovation, appealing to fans who crave fast-paced, high-risk action. WCW’s decision to give the Cruiserweights a prominent platform has paid off, with these athletes often stealing the show. Whether opening the night or being the thrilling middle card highlight, the Cruiserweights are now seen as one of the most important parts of WCW’s programming, drawing in a broader and younger audience. At the heart of the division is Eddie Guerrero, who has redefined what it means to be a champion in WCW. His technical mastery and ability to adapt to any opponent have made him the Cruiserweight division’s top star. Guerrero’s ongoing feud with Rey Mysterio Jr. has been nothing short of legendary, culminating in their Title vs. Mask match at Halloween Havoc 1997, with Rey’s pride and heritage on the line. With challengers like Chris Jericho, Jeff Hardy, Matt Hardy, and Hayabusa waiting in the wings, Guerrero’s reign is constantly under threat, making every Cruiserweight Title match a must-watch spectacle. The success of the Cruiserweight Division has helped WCW differentiate itself from its competitors, bringing a new kind of excitement and unpredictability to its shows. The division has become known for its high-risk, high-reward action, with each match raising the bar for what’s expected in wrestling. As 1997 draws to a close, the Cruiserweights are no longer just an undercard attraction—they are a central part of WCW’s success, pulling in fans from all over the world who tune in to see these stars push the limits of what’s possible in a wrestling ring.