Pro Wrestling Chronicle

Match # 107: Billy Kidman vs. Juventud Guerrera (Nitro 9/14/98)

A rematch from earlier on the set with two guys who stylistically pair up well together. I’m excited to see this one because I remember being very impressed watching it live at the time, and I haven’t seen it in the decade-plus since that night. For reference, this was one of the better Nitros that year, the most memorable part being Ric Flair’s return to WCW and promo he cuts on Bischoff (“fire me! I’m already fired!”).

Juvy is the Cruiserweight champ coming in. Kidman had left Raven’s Flock earlier in the night. The give him a decent reception, and I think he was supposed to be a tweener looking for fan approval through his efforts here. Juvy is such an egotistical goof that the fans don’t quite connect with him.

The first half of this match is really fast paced and tight. Kidman especially looks good and when he’s on to the level he was on this night it makes you wonder what he could have done with a bigger personality. The match is pretty much back and forth, with Kidman showing some frustration early, then slowly gaining control and more comfort within the match.

Match picks up after some reversals and a Kidman nearfall after a great spinebuster-like move. Fans booed him not winning there. Then again a second later with another nearfall. The guy had such an intensity and purpose for this one night. Nearfalls build and build until Juvy gains the advantage long enough to try a top rope move. Kidman catches and crushes him. He goes up top, hits the shooting star press, and wins in roughly ten minutes. I bounce between 3 ¼ and 3 ¾, but I also think 3 ½ being compromise doesn’t quite do it justice. Oh hell, I’ll be as even-steven as WWE mid card booking. 3 ½ and 7/10.