Kayfabe

The Inside Wrestling RPG

A Roleplaying Game
By Matthew Gwinn
 Special thanks go out to all the people
that helped me playtest the game.
They are:
Norbert Gerald Matausch
Franz Keim
157 Canfield #11 Florian Frohnholzer
Milan, MI 48160 Klaus Guggenberger
USA Scott Knipe
http://www.angelfire.com/games3/errantknight Charles Miller
email: mattgwinn@hotmail.com Tom
Danielle Hall
© 2001 Errant Knight Games. All Rights reserved.
Reproduction without the written concent of the pub-
lisher is expressly forbidden.

Printed in the USA

Credits
Game Design: Matthew Gwinn
Layout and Typesetting: Matthew Gwinn
Artwork by: Jason Paulhamus

Kayfabe: The Inside Wrestling RPG

In Association with Target-Audience Game Design
http://www.target-audience.org
 Kayfabe
The Inside Wrestling RPG
kayfabe n. adj. of or related to inside information about the business, especially by fans. Origin is carny
jargon talk for "fake."

Ever watch a wrestling show and say to yourself What You Need
“I can come up with a better storyline than that!” Some 6 sided dice and a good imagination is about
Well, now is your chance to prove just how cre- all you need to play. Having a little inside info on
ative you can be. Kayfabe draws you into the the workings of wrestling is a good help as well.
wrestling industry like no other game has before.
Set up your own wrestling shows while at the same How Many People Are Needed to Play?
time dealing with all the personal issues and drama You can play with as few as 3 people (2 players
that takes place behind the curtain. The premise and a Booker) but the more players you have the
behind Kayfabe is that you and the other players more variety you will have for matches.
have set up your own independent wrestling pro-
motion in hopes of one day rising to the top of the The Booker
wrestling industry. Smart wrestling fans know that Most roleplaying games have a Game Master of
there is far more to the world of professional wres- some variety. Kayfabe is no different. The role of
tling than two guys getting in the ring and beating Gamemaster is referred to as the Booker. The
each other up. There is a lot that goes on behind Booker controls all the characters that were not
the scenes and in the ring that isn't apparent to the created by a player as well as introduces additional
casual wrestling fan. Kayfabe, takes into account plot twists to the game.
all of the behind the scenes intrigue, negotiating
and drama that no one sees, as well as the actual
wrestling we all watch on television. Players take
on the roles of the writing staff and wrestlers
throughout a series of televised shows and a cli-
mactic Pay Per View event.
Establishing
A Talent Pool
 Wrestler Creation
Before you can play Kayfabe you need wrestlers. The Talent Pool is a collection of all the wrestlers that are
available to work for your promotion. You should only need to establish a Talent Pool once, but you may
add new wrestlers to the Talent Pool over time. After a wrestler has been created he should be made
available to be used in any Series you play - even if you are running a different promotion.

Step 1. Getting Started

Take a few minutes to get an idea of the kind of
wrestler you want to make. Don’t worry so much
about statistics just yet. Write a brief description
of your wrestler. Be sure to mention his home-
town, background, general personality and his re-
lationship with other wrestlers. This description
should not read like a laundry list. Use complete
sentences and try to be specific. Also, try not to
make your wrestler appear larger than life; remem-
ber that your wrestler has not hit the big time yet.
In addition, don’t confuse this description with
your wrestler’s Gimmick. This description should
describe what your wrestler is “really” like, not
how he portrays himself in front of the camera.
Be sure to mention things like how he got into the
business and why. Is he married? Does he have
Starting Wrestlers kids? How does his professional life reflect on
The majority of your talent Pool should consist of his personal life? Where was he trained? What
relatively inexperienced wrestlers. When first es- other promotions has he worked for? Try to in-
tablishing a Talent Pool, each player should cre- clude as much detail as possible while still leav-
ate 4 to 10 starting wrestlers using Kayfabe’s Char- ing some things open so you can expand your
acter Creation rules. The only restriction is that wrestler later.
each person must make an equal number of Faces
(good guys) and Heels (bad guys). Step 2. Gimmick
Now give a brief description of your wrestler’s
Experienced Wrestlers gimmick. A Gimmick is a wrestler’s in-ring per-
Every company needs a few veteran wrestlers to sona. Some ideas for Gimmicks include: former
help out the younger guys. If this is your first airborne ranger, police officer, clown, or jungle
time playing Kayfabe, each player should create savage. It is possible to not have a gimmick at
2 experienced wrestlers. When creating these all, but wrestlers with a gimmick tend to have an
wrestlers, players should follow the standard char- easier time with Promos since they have a
acter creation rules with the following exceptions: backstory to work into it. Try to be creative, but
Experienced wrestlers begin the game with 18 don’t go overboard. You should also determine
points to distribute among their Traits (instead of whether your wrestler will be a Face (good guy)
12) and begin the game with 20 to 70 Heat. or a Heel (bad guy).
Step 3. Trademarks & Finishers ity to read the reaction of the crowd and progress
Every wrestler has a move or two that he is known the match accordingly.
for. Pick one or two specific moves that your IN PLAY: During a match a wrestler uses his Work
wrestler uses on a regular basis, these are his Rate to control the narration of the match.
Trademarks. Try not to pick something boring.

A Finisher is very similar to a Trademark move,

Mic Work
but is more impressive. Finishers are used to fin- Mic Work represents your wrestler's ability to
ish off your opponent (thus the name). Though a speak. In one sense it is your wrestler’s ability to
Finisher can be any kind of move, it is more dev- act, but also represents his public speaking ability
astating when your wrestler uses it. It is consid- and ability to communicate with others.
ered unprofessional to use another wrestler’s Fin- IN PLAY: During a Promo, Skit or Interview you
isher. make Mic Work rolls to modify your Heat or the
Heat of your upcoming match. Additionally, your
Naming Trademarks and Finishers Mic Work Trait is also used for any social interac-
Even the most innocuous maneuver can become tion between your character and NPCs when
devastating when simply given a flashy name. simple roleplaying does not provide a definite out-
Start calling a headlock a “The Vice Grip” and it come.
strangely becomes 10 times more effective.
Clout
Clout represents your wrestlers behind the scenes
Step 4. Traits abilities. Wrestlers with high Clout traits are well
Wrestlers have a total of 4 primary Traits. They respected in the business either because they are a
are: Wrestling, Work Rate, Mic Skills and Clout. good worker or because they've been around a long
You start the game with 12 points to split up be- time. A low Clout score indicates that you have a
tween them. No Trait may be higher than 4 at this bad reputation backstage. A high Clout score can
stage, but can be zero. help a wrestler influence the outcome of his
matches.
Wrestling
Wrestling represents your wrestler’s basic ability IN PLAY: During the Locker Room session of the
to execute moves in the ring and make them look game a wrestler's Clout Trait is used to manipu-
good. It not only represents your wrestler’s abil- late match stipulations, finishes, location on the
ity to wrestle, but also any other physical abilities card and a variety of other things.
that may come into play throughout the game.
Making Trait Rolls
IN PLAY: During a match a wrestler uses this trait Your wrestler’s Traits will be used for different
to perform moves and advance the match. When aspects of the game as a random determinant of
not in a match wrestler’s use this trait to simulate success or failure. If required to make a roll (Wres-
any sort of physical action tling roll, Mic Skills roll, etc.), simply roll a num-
ber of six sided dice equal to the indicated Trait.
Work Rate Rolling at least one 6 indicates success. If two or
Work Rate represents your wrestler’s ring “psy- more players are making the same roll the winner
chology”. It indicates not only how well your is the player that rolls the most sixes. If there is a
wrestler works with other wrestlers, but his abil- tie, the player with the highest die total wins. If
there is still a tie, the Booker will decide.
Injury
Injury represents how hurt your wrestler is. Many
wrestlers suffer numerous injuries throughout their
careers. Some continue to wrestle, while others
are forced to retire. Neck, back and knee injuries
are the most common, but wrestlers have been
known to go blind or even die.

Injuries
As wrestlers become injured in the ring (see Risk-
ing Injury) they accumulate Points of Injury.
When a wrestler has gained a total of 10 points of
Temporary Injury those points are converted into
one point of Serious Injury.

Recovery: Wrestlers lose 1 point of

injury at the beginning of each Show.

Serious Injuries
For every point of Serious Injury a wrestler has
he must reduce his Wrestling rolls by 1 die.

Recovery: Points of Serious Injury can

only be recovered by having the wrestler
miss an entire Series (8 shows and 1
PPV) and are removed at a rate of 1 point
per Series missed.

Heat
Heat, represents how the crowd reacts to your
wrestler. The amount of Heat your wrestler has
determines whether the fans want to watch him
wrestle. Faces with a lot of Heat are revered by
the fans and cheered. Heels with a lot of Heat are
Booed by the fans. Regardless of whether the fans
love or hate your wrestler, the more Heat he has
the more the fans want to see him wrestle.
A wrestler’s starting Heat is determined when he
is introduced to the promotion (see Introducing
Your Roster)
Step 5 Assets and Flaws Submission Wrestler
Now it's time to flesh out your wrestler. Each Your wrestler is experienced at performing sub-
wrestler has good and bad aspects about him. mission maneuvers. If the last move in a Move
These aspects are referred to as Assets and Flaws. Set is a submission move you may add +2 die to
Starting wrestlers can have any number of Assets your Wrestling roll. (This Asset may be taken more
and Flaws, but must have an equal number. Some than once)
samples are listed on the following pages. If there
is some aspect of your character that should have Match Specialty
an effect on the game that is not listed work with Your wrestler is skilled at performing in a spe-
the Booker to determine what effects that Asset cific type of match. Whenever a Wrestling roll
or Flaw will have on the game. It is important indicates that your wrestler is injured in a match
that these aspects of your character are roleplayed. of the chosen type the amount of injury he suffers
If the Booker feels that you are not playing your is reduced by 1. (This Asset may be take once per
character as he was created to be played he is match type)
within his bounds to penalize him through loss of
Heat. Good Looking
Your wrestler is handsome, sexy, alluring or oth-
Assets and Flaws can be gained or lost during the erwise attractive to members of the opposite sex.
game through roleplaying. Some Assets may be Your wrestler gains an additional 5 Heat during
gain through contract negotiations later in the character creation.
game.
Muscular
Your wrestler is muscular and therefore better
Sample Assets suited to using strength dependent moves like
Technical Wrestler punches, kicks, clothes lines and the like. If the
Your wrestler is skilled at mat wrestling. Perform- majority of a Move Set consists of such maneu-
ing wrestling maneuvers that involve your wres- vers you may add +2 die to your Wrestling roll.
tler being on the ground are much easier for him
to make look good. If the majority of a Move Set High Flyer
consists of such maneuvers you may add +2 die Your wrestler is experienced at performing ma-
to your Wrestling roll. (This Asset may be taken neuvers that involve him jumping or otherwise
more than once) throwing himself through the air. If the majority
of a Move Set consists of such maneuvers you
Brawler may add +2 die to your Wrestling roll. (This As-
Your wrestler is a bad ass. He is very good at set may be taken more than once)
using strength dependent moves like punching,
kicking, clothes lines and the like. If the majority Married into the Business
of a Move Set consists of such maneuvers you Your spouse is well known in the wrestling busi-
may add +2 die to your Wrestling roll. (This As- ness and can use his/her Clout to help you. When
set may be taken more than once) taking this Asset write up a small blurb about your
spouse and how influential he/she is. Your spouse
Web Site is considered to have 2 points of Clout for each
Your wrestler has his own web site where fans time you take this asset. (This Asset may be taken
can interact with him. Your wrestler gains an ad- more than once)
ditional 5 Heat during character creation.
Born into the Business
Your mother or father is well known in the wres-
tling business. Growing up in the industry has
allowed you to gain a better understanding of how
things are run backstage. Your wrestler gains an
additional point of Clout during character creation.

Huge
Your wrestler is larger than the average wrestler
and appears very intimidating in the ring. Your
wrestler gains an additional 5 Heat during char-
acter creation.

Trustworthy
Other wrestlers respect your in-ring work and trust
you to guide them through a good match. Your
wrestler gains an additional point of Workrate
during character creation. (This Asset may be
taken more than once)

Canadian
Canadian are considered to be great wrestlers
(even when they’re not). Your wrestler gains an
additional 5 Heat during character creation.

Good Reputation
Your wrestler is well known throughout the in-
dustry as being respectable and is well like by oth-
ers. Your wrestler gains an additional point of
Clout during character creation. (This Asset may
be taken more than once)

Legacy
One of your wrestler’s parents was a great wres-
tler and he is following in his parent’s footsteps
(at least in the eyes of the fans). Your wrestler
gains an additional 5 Heat during character cre-
ation.

Has a Valet
Your wrestler has a valet that accompanies him to
the ring. Valets are typically attractive women,
but can be men, animals or even inanimate ob-
jects. Your wrestler gains an additional 5 Heat
during character creation.
Match Psychology Established Fan Base
Your wrestler is very skilled at reading the crowd Wrestling fans know you from somewhere else.
and knows when to perform different maneuvers. Perhaps you’re returning from retirement or you
Your fellow wrestlers are aware of this and often are famous for something outside of wrestling.
let you guide your match with them. Your wres- Former baseball and football players fit into this
tler gains an additional point or Workrate during category. Your wrestler gains an additional 5 Heat
character creation. (This Asset may be taken more during character creation. (This Asset may be
than once) taken more than once)

Has a Manager Acting Experience

Your wrestler has a manager that does most of his Before your wrestler joined the federation he was
talking for him. A Manager is considered to have either a stage or film actor. Your wrestler gains
2 points in Mic Skill for each time you take this an additional point of Mic Skills during character
asset. (This Asset may be taken more than once) creation. (This Asset may be taken more than once)

Friends in High Places Creative Control

Your wrestler has a friend that has a lot of pull in Wrestler's with Creative Control get final approval
the wrestling business. Your friendship with this of any on-air happenings they participate in. Cre-
person grants you leverage when negotiating back- ative Control is rarely given. Creative Control
stage. Your wrestler gains an additional point of can only be gained through contract negotiation.
Clout during character creation. (This Asset may (counts as 2 Assets).
be taken more than once)
Insurance
Trained by a legend Your wrestler has great medical coverage and can
Your wrestler was trained by a wrestling legend. remove one point of injury after each PPV. (This
This legend has granted you exceptional skills and Asset may be taken more than once)
a potion of his Heat. Your wrestler gains an addi-
tional point of Wrestling and 5 additional Heat Perks
during character creation. (counts as 2 assets) Your wrestler has special privileges that other
wrestlers do not receive such as: his own dressing
Versatile room, first class plane tickets, extra vacation time,
Your wrestler is versatile and is able to adjust his etc.
wrestling style to conform to the style of his op-
ponent. Your wrestler gains an additional point A Favor
of Workrate during character creation. (This As- The Booker owes you a favor for some reason.
set may be taken more than once) By giving up this Asset you may choose to auto-
matically succeed at one Clout roll. (This Asset
Worked in Japan may be taken more than once)
Wrestling in Japan is a great way to gain experi-
ence in the ring. Japanese wrestlers have an in-
tense dedication to their craft. Your wrestler has
worked a year or more in Japan. Your wrestler
gains an additional point of Wrestling during char-
acter creation. (This Asset may be taken more than
once)
 Sample Flaws
Works Stiff
Your wrestler has a tendency of legitimately hurt-
ing his opponents. During each match your wres-
tler must Stretch or Shoot on his opponent at least
once.

Bad Reputation
Other wrestlers don’t like your wrestler for one
reason or another. They don’t like being in
matches with him and they definitely don’t like
losing to him.

Primadonna
Your wrestler has a very high opinion of himself.
He doesn’t like losing or looking foolish and is
likely to complain when booked to do so.

Unattractive
Your Character is rather unattractive. Your
wrestler’s starting Heat is reduced by 5 during
character creation. If taking this flaw would re- Nagging Injury
duce your wrestler’s Heat to less than zero he can Your wrestler has an old injury that continues to
not take it. (This Asset may be taken more than bother him. Your wrestler starts with an injury of
once) 2 and his injury rating can never go below that.

Friends with the Wrong People Injury Prone

Your wrestler has friends that are disliked by those Your wrestler has a tendency of getting injured
in power. Your relationship with these friends of- badly. Whenever your character gets injured in a
ten hinders your Clout. Your wrestler’s starting match add an additional point of injury. (This
Clout is reduced by 1 during character creation. Asset may be taken more than once)
If taking this flaw would reduce your wrestler’s
Clout to less than zero he can not take it. (This Enemy
Asset may be taken more than once) There is another wrestler that tries to steal your
wrestler’s Heat at every turn. Enemies are usu-
Has Been ally willing to risk losing their own Clout just to
You were once a well known wrestler, but now make sure your wrestler doesn’t succeed. (This
you are all washed up. You’re either too old or Asset may be taken more than once)
too out of shape to keep up with the younger guys
and the fans know it. Your wrestler’s starting Heat Not Good in Short Matches
is reduced by 5 during character creation. If tak- Your wrestler needs time to get into a match. Dur-
ing this flaw would reduce your wrestler’s Heat ing the first 10 minutes of a match your wrestler
to less than zero he can not take it. must reduce his Wrestling rolls by 1 die.
Untapped Resource In It for the Money
For some reason the Booker just doesn’t seem to For one reason or another your wrestler has be-
recognize your wrestler’s talent. Although he come disenchanted with the wrestling industry.
doesn’t necessarily get booked to lose every Though he may have started wrestling because he
match, he is never scheduled to wrestle anyone liked it, now he’s just in it for the money. Getting
with more Heat than himself. Heat isn’t all that important to him as long as he
keeps getting a steady paycheck.
Drug/Alcohol Problem
Your wrestler is either an alcoholic or is addicted Refuses to Job
to drugs (usually painkillers). Whenever your Your wrestler refuses to lose to wrestlers with less
wrestler is under the influence of his substance of heat than himself. He must Wager Clout when-
choice reduce all of his Wrestling rolls by 2. (This ever scheduled to lose to someone with less Heat.
Asset may be taken more than once)
Vendetta
Limited Availability Your wrestler is determined to prevent another
Outside responsibilities often limit when and wrestler from succeeding. After everyone has cre-
where your wrestler can perform. During charac- ated their wrestlers choose a wrestler created by
ter creation determine what is limiting your wres- another player that has enemy as a flaw. Your
tler. Some examples are: can’t fly due to injury or wrestler is now considered to be that wrestler’s
fear, another job, outstanding warrants in a state. enemy.

Flawed Psychology Selfish

Your wrestler doesn’t understand the psychology Your wrestler is selfish and never takes into ac-
of how a match should progress, but thinks he count other’s feeling or careers.
does. At least once in each match your wrestler
must try to steal control of the match from his
opponent.

Blown-Up
Your wrestler has a tendency to get tired quickly.
After a match has gone on for 10 minutes your
wrestler must reduce his Wrestling rolls by 2.
(This Asset may be taken up to 3 times. If taken
twice the die modifier is applied after 5 minutes
instead of 10. If taken 3 times the modifier is ap-
plied after 2 minutes.)

Overweight
Your wrestler is overweight and his wrestling abil-
ity is hindered because of it. Your wrestler’s start-
ing Wrestling trait is reduce by 1. If taking this
flaw would reduce your wrestler’s Wrestling Trait
to less than zero he can not take it. (This Asset
may be taken more than once)
 Create Your Promotion
As players of Kayfabe you are in essence running any modifiers). The Booker will then award up
your own independent wrestling promotion. Cre- to 10 points of Heat (based on how intriguing your
ating your promotion should be a cooperative ef- Promo was and how well it was received by the
fort between all the players. Your promotion won’t other players) plus 1 point of Heat for each 6 you
be a multi-million dollar company (at least at first), rolled. It is not necessary to establish a starting
but will be big enough to allow you to have a syn- wrestler’s Heat unless he has been selected for
dicated TV show once or twice a week and enough your promotions roster.
funds to have a Pay Per View. A few things you
should keep in mind when creating your promo- Rate Your Promotion
tion are: where are you located? do you have Your promotion’s Rating determines how popu-
shows across the country or just locally? do you lar your federation is and what kind of TV expo-
have a rival promotion that you compete with for sure you have. Starting promotions begin with a
territory or wrestlers? and most importantly, what Rating of Zero (1).
is your promotion call? You can go into as much
detail as you like but you should leave some in- Rating 1-19 (Unknown)
formation a little vague to facilitate creative li- Only your friends and family know about
cense later in the game. your federation and your shows can only
be watched on the interenet.
Establish a Roster
What’s a wrestling promotion without wrestlers? Rating 20-49 (Local)
As a starting promotion you will need to aquire Your promotion is very popular in the
talented wrestlers. A starting promotion will con- local area and has it’s own publis access
sist of 15 starting wrestlers plus 1 experienced show.
wrestler per player. First, each player should pick
1 experienced wrestler. Then, going in a Circle, Rating 50-99 (Syndicated)
each player should pick 1 starting wrestler from Your promotion is very popular through
the Talent Pool to be a part of the federation. Con- out the state and its shows can be viewed
tinue in this fasion until a total of 15 starting wres- on a local cable station
tlers have been chosen.
Rating 100-149 (National)
Introduce the Roster You have fans across the nation and your
After your promotion’s roster has been selected show can be viewed on a national cable
each player should take a few minutes to intro- station.
duce the wrestlers he created that were chosen by
cutting a Promo. This Promo will determine the Rating 150+ (Worldwide)
wrestlers starting popularity or Heat. You have fans across the world and your
show is aired on TV in several countries.
When introducing the wrestler consider the intro-
duction to be the first time he has ever appeared
in public. When you're done, roll a number of
dice equal to the wrestler’s Mic Skills Trait (+/-
 Starting A Series
Each Series consists of nine game sessions of As the Series progresses players will be respon-
about 3 to 5 hours. The first eight session repre- sible for making sure these matches happen as
sent individual television shows put on by your planned. the more of these matches that occur at
promotion , while the last session is a Pay Per View the PPV the better your promotion will look to
event. others in the business.

Choosing a Booker
Before you begin a Series you need to deside
which player will be the Booker. The role of the
Booker is very important because the Booker is
responsible for challenging the players. It is the
Booker’s job to not only guide the game along,
but to also put a road block or two in front of the
players. Unlike may roleplaying games, Kayfabe
puts much of control into the hands of the play-
ers, but the game would be nothing more than a
storytelling session if there wasn’t someone to
throw an obstacle or two in front of the players.

Planning A PPV
When playing any roleplaying game it’s always
good to set up a starting point and an ending point.
So far you should have arrived at your starting
point by designing a promotion and choosing a
Roster. Now it’s time to determine how you plan
to end your Series. In most games only the Game
Master knows how the Series will end, but
Kayfabe is not like most games. Since wrestling,
as we all know, is planned out ahead of time, it
makes sense that you should know ahead of time
where each of your wrestlers will be at the end of
the Series. Or at least where you’d like them to
be.

Each player is responsible for setting up (or Book-

ing) one match for the Pay Per View. The player
should establish:
• Who is in the match?
• What titles (if any) will be on the line?
• What stipulations will be involved?
• Who will win the match?
The Booking
Committee
During the Booking Committee the players take • Who will be involved?
on the roles of the show’s writing staff. As the What wrestlers, interviewers and so on will be
writing staff it is the job of the players to come up required to take part? When coming up with ideas
with ideas for the upcoming show. This includes it makes no difference who created the characters
every aspect of the show (except commercials). in questions. But be aware that all the roleplaying
Each player is responsible for coming up with one and match narration will be done by the creating
each of the following events: one Interview, one player. Try to be fair so everyone gets an oppor-
Promo, one Skit and one Match. Players are free tunity to participate in the session.
to come up with more than one of each, but you
should always save a few ideas for the next show. • Why is it important?
Players can help each other come up with ideas if Why is the event important to the current
someone is having trouble. When coming up with storylines. Remember that you’re trying to tell a
ideas players should try to be creative while at the story and each event that occurs on a show is an-
same time, ensuring their PPV match occurs as other part of that story. When you come up with
scheduled. Players can go into as much detail as an idea, ask yourself if what you came up with
they like, but the Booking Committee shouldn’t would entice you to continue watching the show.
take more than a half hour or so. Players should
set a time limit for the Booking Committee based • What effect will this event have?
on their available time. It is entirely acceptable to How will the event effect future shows? Is this
allow players many hours or even days to work just the beginning of a series of events? The end?
out their ideas. In fact, when a game session is If the event is a match, will the loser have an op-
short on time it is acceptable for the entire Book- portunity to redeem himself on a future show?
ing Committee to take place as its own session. If
the Booker agrees, players can come up with ideas Scripting
on their own time and simple give their ideas to It is acceptable for players to go as far as writing
the Booker before the session even starts. Once scripts for their Promo and Skit ideas, but don’t
the chosen time limit has expired the players get too carried away because the Booker may
should give all their ideas to the Booker who will choose not to use your ideas and you will have
then Book the show using those ideas as a guide. spent all that time for nothing. The best way to
Players may go into as much detail as they like script out Promos and Skits is to concentrate on a
with their ideas, but there are a few questions that few lines of dialog that sound cool and improvise
must be addressed by each player. the rest during play.

• How long with the event take?

Remember, the show is only 2 hours long and at
least 20 minutes of that will be for commercials.
Most matches on a regular show last between 3
and 10 minutes. All other events vary in length
from 30 seconds to 30 minutes. Don’t be surprised
if the Booker is forced to shorten your event to
make room for other players’ ideas.
Ideas for Interviews • Match Promos
Match Promos take place directly before a sched-
Interviews are the easiest part of the show to come
uled match. Match Promos usually start with one
up with. Simply pick a wrestler and a topic. Most
wrestler in the ring cutting what appears to be a
interviews will simply be a wrestler talking about
standard promo. At some point he will “call out”
his upcoming match or how he’s going to beat up
his opponent and they will exchange verba taunts
so and so at the Pay Per View. Interviews are also
until their match begins.
good ways to set up matches for future shows or
the PPV by having a wrestler challenge another
• Match Building Promos
wrestler.
Match Building Promos are designed to build up
anticipation for a future match. They begin much
• Shoot Interviews
like a Match promo, but instead of leading into a
Shoot Interviews involve a wrestler breaking
match the wrestlers usually fight for a few min-
kayfabe and talking as a real person. Shoot inter-
utes before being split up by referees or security.
views are highly discouraged, but occasionally
The brawling that occurs during the Promo is
make sense when explaining real injuries and other
treated just like a match, but should be limited to
real life experiences that effect the show. Though
2 or 3 Move Sets after which the wrestlers will be
Shoot Interviews can be scheduled during the
broken up.
Booking Committee they are most often the re-
sult of a disgruntled or careless wrestler breaking
character. Ideas for Skits
Of all the aspects of the Booking Committee, Skits
• Gimmick Interviews can be the most difficult to come up with. De-
Sometimes wrestlers have a regular interview seg- spite the name, a Skit doesn’t always have to be
ment where they interview other wrestlers. These funny. In fact, a Skit can be any encounter that
interviews are set up very much like a late night occurs on the Show that is not a Match, Inter-
talk show. They have their own set and their own view or Promo. Skits can be as simple as 2 wres-
style based on the wrestler that is conducting the tlers bumping into each other in the hall or as com-
interviews. They often have clever names like: plex as two wrestlers competing on an obstacle
“The Love Show” or “The Fire Pit”. course. The possibilities are endless. There are 2
kinds of Skits: Conscious and Unconscious.
Ideas for Promos
• Conscious
Coming up with a Promo can be a little more chal-
A Conscious Skit is one that involves a wrestler
lenging than an Interview. In most cases a Promo
being aware that he is on camera. Wrestlers com-
starts out with one wrestler talking about himself
ing to the ring dressed like other wrestlers as a
or trash talking another wrestler, and usually es-
way of poking fun at them is a prime example of
calates into a confrontation (either a match or just
this.
a brawl). Promos are great for creating conflict
between two wrestlers without actually having to
• Unconscious
schedule a match for them. Promos are also a
An Unconscious Skit involves wrestlers who don’t
good way to keep an injured wrestler in the minds
seem to know they are on camera. Unconscious
of the audience.
Skits often take place in the locker room, back-
stage or even miles away from the arena.
Booking a Match • Who will win?
There is no need to define who the winner of a
When Booking a match there are a few questions
match will be at this time. As the writer you can
that must be addressed. Though the answers to
suggest who you feel should win the match espe-
these questions can be changed later through
cially if it’s vital to the storyline. After all the
roleplaying and the Wagering of Clout they must
players have given their ideas to the Booker he
each be initially set up during the Booking Ses-
will make the final decision about who wins.
sion. When booking a match you need to keep in
mind the PPV match you envisioned during char-
• What is the Match’s Time Limit?
acter creation. It’s important that you try and build
Each show is 2 hours long. Make sure you don’t
up to that match while at the same time keeping it
go over that. A standard match will have a Time
a secret from the other players as long as possible.
Limit of anywhere from 2 to 10 minutes.
• Who is in the Match?
When deciding who will be in a match it is im-
portant to remember the PPV match you set up. Booking The Show
Try not to book the same wrestlers every time - Once each player has finished he should give all
that’s boring. of his ideas to the Booker. The Booker will then
look them over and Book the show based on those
• Who is in the Match? ideas. When Booking the show, it is the Booker’s
When deciding who will be in a match it is im- responsibility to take into account any Flaws or
portant to remember the PPV match you set up. Assets wrestlers may have that will have an effect
Try not to book the same wrestlers every time - on the Show. For example: one of the players has
that’s boring. booked the Vindicator to lose against Little Joe
Dynamite. Well, the Vindicator has the “Friends
• What Titles Are on The Line? in High Places” Asset, so the Booker changes the
When booking a match in which someone will match’s outcome. The Booker can even switch
win a title, you must keep in mind that most belts wrestlers if he likes. Once the Booker has fin-
require a wrestler to have a specific amount of ished he will write up a Booking Sheet and the
Heat before the wrestler can posses the title. Fail- Booking Committee will end.
ure to meet this Heat requirement causes your pro-
motion to lose integrity and thus it’s Rating will
decrease by 1 every show until the title is given to
a suitable wrestler. Use the following chart to
determine if a wrestler’s Heat warrants a title.

• World Title (Heat = Rating x 2)

• Tag Team Title (Heat = Rating x 2)
• Intercontinental Title (Heat = Rating)
• Cruiserweight Title (Heat = Rating)
• U.S. Title (Heat = Rating/2)
• TV Title (Heat = Any)
• Hardcore Title (Heat = Any)
Feuds (optional)
Feuds are an important part of professional wres-
tling. Feuds are the fuel that heats up the crowd.
Two wrestlers that despise one another can draw
the crowd into their conflict and thereby entertain
them. When trying to come up with ideas during
the Booking Committee you should consider dif-
ferent ways of starting a Feud. Feuds keep fans
interested in the show because they want to fol-
low along to see who comes out on top.

Stable Feuds
Most Feuds involve only two wrestlers, one Heel
and one Face, but there are times when entire
groups of wrestlers (Stables) feud with each other.
Stable Feuds use only the statistics of the Stable’s
leader (usually the wrestler with the Most Heat or
Highest Mic Skill) when calculating starting Lon-
gevity, and Feud Progression and extension.

Effects of a Feud
As long as a wrestler is in a Feud his Heat can not
go below 5. If a wrestler's Heat is lower than 5
when a Feud begins it automatically rises to 5.

Starting a Feud
The decision to start a Feud is always made dur-
ing the Booking Committee and must be approved
by the Booker. The first thing you have to do when
starting a Feud is, determine why the wrestlers
are Feuding. Simply disliking one another is not
enough to start a legitimate Feud. Be sure not to
confuse a Feud with an Angle. The difference lies
in the fact that Angles tend to be rather short lived
and are a result of a specific event. Feuds on the
other hand evolve over time and are usually the
result many angles involving the two wrestlers.
It should become pretty obvious to you when a
series of Angles evolves into a Feud - use your
judgement.
Determine Feud Longevity • Injury
Some Feuds last longer than others depending on Sometimes the fans just forget about the Feud. If
the amount of Heat the two wrestlers have. In a wrestler is forced to miss more than 6 shows in
fact, two wrestlers with a lot of Heat can poten- a row due to Serious Injury the Feud is consid-
tially Feud on and off for years. A Feud's initial ered to be over. Ending a Feud in this way with-
Longevity is equal to the combined Heat of the out rekindling the Feud when the wrestler returns
opponents (for Feuds with more than 2 partici- reduces your promotion’s rating by 1.
pants only the two wrestlers with the most Heat
count when calculating this number). • Booking
Sometimes a Feud isn’t working out quite like you
Feud Progression had hoped. Maybe the wrestlers are having a hard
Every time two wrestlers involved in a Feud are time maintaining their Heat and you don’t want
in a match the Longevity of their Feud is reduced to give them as much TV time. Regardless of your
by the Time Limit of that match. Thus, if a Feud reasons, you can prematurely end a Feud at any
has a Longevity of 60 and the wrestlers have a time during the Booking Committee. Ending a
match with a 10 Time Limit the Feud Longevity Feud in this way reduces your promotion’s rating
is reduced to 50. by 1.

If a Feud ends before its Longevity reaches zero

Extending a Feud
make a note of the remaining Longevity for fu-
Every time a feuding wrestler gains Heat from a
ture reference.
Skit, Promo or Interview related to the Feud, in-
creases the Feud’s Longevity by an equal amount.
Rekindling a Feud
Sometimes Feuds end prematurely due to Face/
Ending a Feud
Heel turns, injury etc. If at any time this Feud is
As time goes by all things must come to an end.
restarted you must calculate a new Feud Longev-
Fans can only tolerate watching the same wres-
ity. The Rekindled Feud has a Longevity equal to
tlers feud with each other for so long before things
the remaining Longevity from the previous Feud
get stagnant. There are a number of ways to end a
plus the combined Heat of the two wrestlers (or
Feud.
two wrestlers with the most Heat for Stable Feuds).
• Feud's Longevity Reaches Zero
As soon as a Feud's Longevity reaches zero it is
done. Additionally, the feuding wrestlers can not
have a match against each other until AFTER the
upcoming PPV (meaning the rest of the current
Series).

• Heel/Face Turn
One of the feuding wrestlers makes a Face or Heel
Turn. Since Feuds require at least one Face and
One Heel the Feud must stop. In cases of entire
stables of wrestlers feuding, the Feud does not end
unless an entire stable turns.
 The
Locker Room
During the Booking Committe the players took an image that depicts them as a loser or a fool.
on the roles of the show’s writers. Once the Locker Veteran wrestlers, who have spent many years
Room Session begins players must switch gears building up their image, are most likely to chal-
and take on the roles of their wrestlers. It is im- lenge the Booker to protect that image. Likewise,
portant that players are able to separate the two inexperienced wrestlers trying to build their own
and understand that the objectives of the writing image are likely to fight for a big victory or a cool
staff may be quite differant than the objectives of gimmick that will give them credibility and thrust
the individual wrestlers. In some instances player them into superstardom.
may have already thought of this when coming
up with ideas for the show. Changing Promos & Interviews
Changing a Promo or Interview is a relatively easy
The Locker Room Session is in many ways the task in most cases. Wrestlers with exceptional Mic
desiding factor in the success of your promotion’s Skills are often given free reign in such situations.
show. It is here where the wrestlers interact with As a rule of thumb wrestlers with high Mic Skills
each other and determine how the show will actu- should be given a topic, a time limit and then set
ally come together. loose. However, some Promos and Interviews
serve a specific purpose and it’s important to the
As the Locker Room Session begins the Booker Booking Committee that specific things are said
will present the players with the current show's and done. Since most wrestlers are not privy to
Booking Sheet. The Booking Sheet tells the the objectives of the writing staff, there can be a
player's what matches, Skits and Promos have level of apprehension among the wrestlers. In a
been scheduled for the current show, how long sense the wrestlers are putting their futures in the
each will be and who will win each match. Dur- hands of the writers and that can be a pretty risky
ing the Booking Committee players gave the thing when you don’t know how your storyline is
Booker a number of ideas about what they’d like going to end.
to see happen on the show. Those ideas may or
may not be on the Booking Sheet. Some items
may be on the Booking Sheet, but be completely
different from what the players intended, while
others may be left out entirely. It is now the play-
ers opportunity to roleplay their wrestlers’ reac-
tions to the Booking Sheet.

Changing Matches & Skits

There is nothing to say that just because a Match
or Skit is listed on the Booking Sheet that its out-
come is set in stone or that it will even occur.
Wrestling can be a dirty business and wrestlers
are well known for their ability to politic and
backstab to get to the top of the industry. In many
cases, ‘going with the flow’ can result in a
wrestler’s fall into obscurity. Even though most
fans are aware that match outcomes are predeter-
mined, wrestlers often lobby for victories.
Wrestler’s desire to build an image and none want
Using Clout Gaining Clout
Players can typically adjust matches and match Just as there are ways to lose your Clout there are
placement on the card through roleplay, but occa- also ways of gaining it. Building up your Clout is
sionally compromises can't be made. When this almost as important as building up your Heat.
happens players can attempt to use their wrestler's Many wrestlers bide their time and suffer through
Clout. Whenever a wrestler fails to come to terms rediculous gimmicks and matches in the hopes that
with the Booker or another wrestler he can use some day it will all pay off for them. Clout can be
Clout to see if he get's his way. To do this the player gained in 3 ways.
roleplays his wrestler's argument and rolls a num-
ber of dice equal to his Clout Trait (+/- any modi- Experience
fiers for good narration). If the result of the roll Simply managing to stay in the business for an
includes at least one 6 the wrestler get's his way. extended period can gain you Clout. As time
If the roll resulted in no 6s he must abide by the passes your wrestle will learn the intricasies of
Booker’s wishes. Another wrestler can choose to the business and the secret art of negotiation. Af-
support the Booker and oppose a change. If this ter each Pay Per View your character will have
happens, the second wrestler can also make a Clout the opportunity to increase his Clout (see After
roll. The wrestler who gets the most 6s gets his the PPV: Character Advancement).
way. If no 6’s are rolled the die roll with the high-
est total wins out. Paying Your Dues
Every wrestler needs to pay his dues before he
advances to superstardom. Clout often represents
Losing Clout
your character’s respect behind the scenes as much
Sometimes wrestlers try to get their way a little
as his influence. Showing other wrestlers that
too often. Each time a wrestlers uses his Clout to
you’re willing to do “the job” for them makes it
alter a match or to Shoot he comes one step closer
more likely that they will do the same for you.
to losing it. A wrestler can only use his Clout
Whenever a wrestler looses a number of matches
once for each point of Clout he has before losing
equal to “twice” his Clout he gains a point of Clout.
a point of it. For example: If a wrestler has a
Clout of 5 he may use his Clout 5 times, after
Doing Favors for the Booker
which his Clout is reduced to 4. From there he
The other way to Gain Clout is to be awarded it
may use it more 4 times before his Clout is re-
by the Booker. At any time during a Series the
duced to 3 and so on. Losing Clout is a result of
Booker may choose to award a wrestler a point of
attempting to use it and has nothing to do with the
Clout. Wrestler’s earn this award by accepting
success or failure of the roll. Wrestler’s with zero
matches that are OBVIOUSLY not in their best
Clout can not make Clout rolls to effect booking,
interest. Simply losing a match to an inferior op-
but can still shoot.
ponent is not enough to garner this award unless
Shooting In A Match the wrestler gains no opportunity to reasonably
Intentionally injuring an opponent is avenge the loss. The Booker may only award 1
equivalent to making a number of Clout point of Clout per show.
rolls equal to the amount of damage done.

Shoot Interviews
Shooting on another wrestler in an
Interview or Promo is considered to be
using Clout.
Plotting Out a Match
Once the Booking Sheet has been given to the
players and any changes have been negotiated, the
wrestlers can plot out how they would like the
match to progress. Usually the wrestlers will dis-
cuss a few high spots they would like to do and
any moves they don’t want to take or perform.
Players will often layout how the narration of the
match will be executed (i.e. player 1 will narrate
2 Move Sets and then player 2 will take over), but
it is not unknown for wrestlers to just “wing it”
once they get in the ring. “Winging It” is more
difficult than planning out the match, especially
if there is a strict Time Limit. When ploting out a
match players shouldn’t go into too much detail
or they will simply be repeating themselves when
they narrate their match.

Backstage Interaction
The Locker Room Session is also the stage of the
game where the Booker can introduce behind the
scene's plot twists and relationships. This is dis-
cussed in more detail in the Booker’s Section.
The Show
 Interviews, Promos & Skits
Interviews & Promos Effects of Interviews, Promos
Interviews typically involve a single wrestler or and Skits
tag team being interviewed in the ring or back-
Players involved MUST roleplay their Interview,
stage. In most cases Interviews involve the
Promo or Skit. In addition, each player whose
wrestler(s) talking trash about their opponent(s),
wrestler had a speaking role must roll a number
but can involve an interviewer asking the
of dice equal to their wrestler’s Mic Skills Trait
wrestler(s) about a recent match of event.
(+/- any modifiers). Afterwords each wrestler
Shoot Interviews involved gains an amount of Heat equal to the
Shoot Interviews involve a wrestler breaking TOTAL number of 6s rolled plus any additional
kayfabe and talking as a real person. Shoot inter- points as noted below. In addition if the partici-
views are highly discouraged, but ocassionally pating wrestlers are currently in a Feud the amount
make sense when explaining real injuries and and gained is also added to their Feud's Longevity.
other real life experiences that effect the show.
Shooting on another Wrestler • Was it entertaining? + 1 point of Heat
Ocassionally a wrestler will sneak real life into an • Did it elicit an emotion (sympathy, fear,
Interview as a way of hurting another wrestler’s laughter)? + 1 point of Heat
reputation. Examples of this can be as innocuous • Did it add to the current storyline? or Start
as simply saying a wrestler has no talent or as bad a new one? + 1 point of Heat
as saying a wrestler has a drunk driving record or • Did it establish your opponent as a Heel
cheats on his wife. Doing this uses Clout and the or Face (as applicable)? + 1 point of Heat
target of the Shoot loses anywhere from 1 to 10
Heat based on the severity of the Shoot (Booker’s Botched Interviews, Promos & Skits
discretion). Botched Interviews, Promos and Skits not only
make your wrestler look stupid, they also annoy
Promos the audience. If NO player rolls a six on their
Promos work exactly the same as interviews, but Mic Skills roll each wrestler involved loses an
with one exception - no interviewer. Promos al- amount of Heat equal to the total number of ones
most always take place in the ring or at the top of rolled (this could be zero).
the entrance ramp.

Skits
There are a variety of differnt ways a Skit can be
performed. Some Skits involve behind the scenes
interaction between wrestlers who appear to be
unaware of the camera. These types of Skits can
nvolve a simple conversation or plotting between
the wrestlers. Some Skits take place in the ring
and can involve anything from clever comentary
to parodies of another wrestler.
 Matches

Wrestler’s often make reference to the fact that roleplayed, but is instead simulated through nar-
their matches tell a story. As players of Kayfabe, ration. When one player is narrating it is assumed
it is your responsibility to tell that story. Matches that his wrestler is dictating the moves being per-
in Kayfabe don’t involve hit rolls or damage like formed by both wrestlers.
many other games. Instead players take turns nar-
rating the events of each match and use the dice Which Players Narrate the Match?
to determine the crowd’s reaction. The creator of the wrestler that is controlling the
match is considered to be the narrator. The Booker
Match Narration must control one of the wrestlers if both wrestlers
Professional wrestling matches, as we all know, were created by the same player.
are a sham. The end result is predetermined and
the wrestlers do their best to not hurt each other. How Do I Narrate a Match?
What many people don’t know is that throughout Match narration is rather simple. All you need to
the match the wrestlers are in constant communi- do is describe what the audience sees. Your nar-
cation with each other. A typical match is filled ration describes the actions of ALL the wrestlers
with instructions being secretly relayed back and involved in the match (even ones you didn’t cre-
forth between the wrestlers. This communication ate). You are free to do whatever you want, but
is performed through subtle gestures or discrete you should follow some general guidelines:
conversation. This aspect of the match is not
Try and Stick to the Plan into play during the match. If your wrestler is a
Make sure you follow whatever palns were layed high flyer don’t have him do power moves all the
out during the Booking Committe and the Locker time. If your wrestler doesn’t like his opponent
Room by the writing staff and wrestlers. If it was consider shooting or ruining the match.
agreed that you would make your opponent look
good, don’t make him look like a chump. Be Enthusiastic
Get into your match! Don’t just give a laundry list
Don’t Be Selfish of manuevers. use some detail, make the other
When narrating a match don’t give all the action players feel as though the match is happening right
to your wrestler. Nothing is more boring to a wres- in front of them. Try standing up when you nar-
tling fan than watching one guy beat the snot out rate (it helps).
of another guy for ten minutes. Good matches go
back and forth between the two wrestlers. Al- How Long Should I Narrate?
though wrestlers should strive to make themselves The amount of time you spend narrating will de-
look good, the old addage “if you don’t look good, pend on two things. One, how long the Match is
I don’t look good” applies here. and two, how descriptive you want to be. See
“Advancing a Match” for more information on
Remember Your Assets and Flaws this.
Keep in mind that your wrestler is a person and
that different aspects of his personality will come
Starting a Match Opponent Stretches
At any time a wrestler can try to forcefully take
In most cases, initial control of the match belongs
control of a match by Stretching his opponent.
to the Heel, but this will vary from promotion to
This means the wrestler attempts to dominate the
promotion. Players may simply deside amongst
narrator’s wrestler through actual wrestling. Wres-
themselves who starts the match.
tlers that lack a high Work Rate often resort to
this kind of discouraged activity. Stretching on a
Once the starting narrator has been chosen he can
regular basis is sure to get a wrestler the bad repu-
begin narrating the first exchange of moves. That
tation Flaw. When a wrestler chooses to Stretch
player will continue to narrate until one of the fol-
all of the narration since the last die roll is disre-
lowing occurs:
garded and both players roll dice equal to their
Wrestling Trait. Whoever rolls the most 6s gets
• Opposing Player Seizes Control
control of the narration. If no 6’s are rolled the
• Opponent Misreads the Narrator
wrestler with the highest die total gains control.
• Opponent Stretches
NOTE: this wrestling roll does not reduce a
• A Run-In Occurs
match’s Time Limit. A player may only choose to
• Narrator Chooses to Relinquish Control
stretch BEFORE the narrator makes his Wrestling
roll.
Opposing Player Seizes Control.
A wrestler that does not like the way a match is
A Run-In Occurs
being narrated can choose to use his Work Rate
If another wrestler enters the ring to interfere his
to seize control of the narration. Attempts to seize
controller automatically gains control of the
control of narration often come as a result of one
match’s narration. Keep in mind when narrating
wrestler shooting on another or refusing to sell a
that unless the match was a no disqualification
move. When a wrestler tries to seize control of
match you should point out why the ref didn’t
the narration all of the narration since the last die
notice the interferance.
roll is disregarded and both players make a Work
Rate roll. Whoever rolls the most 6s gets control
Narrator Chooses to Relinquish Control
of the narration. If no 6’s are rolled the player
The Narrator can always choose to relinquish con-
with the highest die total gains control of the nar-
trol of the narration. This usually happens as a
ration. A player may only choose to seize control
result of a player running out of ideas. In some
BEFORE the narrator makes his Wrestling roll.
cases wrestlers may have decided ahead of time
when they will relinquish control of the match.
Opponent Misreads the Narrator
This occurs whenever the narrator fails to roll at
least one 6 when performing a Move Set. This
indicates that there was a miscommunication be-
tween the two wrestlers. Perhaps the crowd noise
made one of the wrestlers miss his cue, or some-
thing along those lines. Regardless of the cause,
some aspect of the moveset went wrong. The new
narrator must describe what went wrong before
begining his own narration.
Advancing The Match Match Heat
During a match players will be required to make Matches have Heat just like wrestlers. A Match’s
a number of die rolls. As these die rolls are made starting Heat is determined by averaging the Heat
the match's Time Limit is reduced. Below are the of all the participating wrestlers. A Match’s Heat
2 primary ways to advance a match. also determines where the match occurs on the
card as well as the amount of Heat the wresters
Move Sets gain or lose at the end of the match. There are a
A Move Set consists of any number of actions variety of ways to increase or decrease a Match’s
taken in a match that takes apporimately 1 minute. Heat discused below.
Players are encouraged to start each Move Set with
a number of smaller moves like punches, kicks, Move Sets
irish whips and so on, and end the Move Set with Each time a Wrestling roll results in 1 or more 6's
a more climatic move like a clothesline of suplex. the Match’s Heat is increased by 1 point for each
Remember, a Move Set should fill 60 seconds of 6 rolled. Every time a Wrestling roll results in no
match time.The wrestler that had the MOST of- 6’s the Match’s Heat is reduced by 1 point of Heat
fense during the current Move Set gets to roll a for each 1 rolled (minimum of 1).
number of dice equal to his Wrestling Trait plus
any bonus dice the Booker awards as a result of Promos
"exceptional" narration (usually 1 or 2). Keep in After the first wrestler gets in the ring he can cut a
mind that it is the controller of the wrestler, NOT short Promo. Promos usually involve the wrestler
necessarily the narrator that rolls the dice. Every “calling Out” his opponent, or can simply involve
time the dice are rolled in this fashion reduces the the wrestler talking until his opponent comes to
match's Time Limit by 1 minute. the ring. As with Interviews and Skits the players
involved MUST roleplay the Promo in addition
Rest Holds to rolling a number of dice equal to their wres-
A wrestler who gets Blown up (see Flaws) can tlers’ Mic Skills Trait (+/- any modifiers).
recover by using a hold that allows him or his
opponent to rest such as a headlock, or front face After the Promo has been completed the Booker
lock. Doing this reduces the match’s Time Limit will add a amount of Match Heat to the match
by 1 and the Time Limit is considered to be 2 min- equal to the number of 6s rolled plus 1 to 10 addi-
utes further back than it actually is as far as the tional points based on the entertainment value of
Blown Up flaw is concerned. For example, if a the Promo and the reaction of the other players.
match has gone for 5 minutes it is consider to have
only gone 3 minutes in regards to being Blown Crowd Heat
Up. Rest holds do NOT require a die roll and Sometimes wrestlers get lucky and the crowd is
reduce a match’s Heat by 5. really easy to please. Some crowds will have a
CLAIRIFIER: During a match you should only great time no matter what is happening in the ring.
have to roll the dice a number of times equal to Unfortunately, some crowds are just the opposite
the Time Limit minus the number of Rest Holds and can’t be pleased at all. Before each show the
used. Booker should asign the crowd a Heat rating be-
tween -10 and +10 and apply that amount to each
match. Location, crowd size, and weather all play
a role in determining Crowd Heat, but there can
be any number of factors involved.
Wagering Match Heat Shooting
Sometimes a wrestler has to give 110% to build When a wrestler Shoots he is intentionally trying
up a match’s Heat. Wrestler’s can choose to Wa- to hurt his opponent. Shooting on an opponent
ger Match Heat by putting forth a little extra ef- works similar to Risking Injury. At any time dur-
fort. By doing so the wrestler is assumed to be ing a match the narrating player may choose to
doing something that the fans just won't accept. Shoot on his opponent. When a wrestler chooses
The move can be anything, but it has to be some- to Shoot he must deside how much Injury he in-
thing that the fans normally would respond to with tends to cause his opponent (max of 10). The nar-
doubt or amazement. Anything that make sthe rator will then make his wrestling roll as usual. If
crowd scream “HOLY SH#T!” is worth Wager- the wrestling roll garners at least one 6 the
ing Heat over. Some examples of this include: a opponent's Injury Trait is increased by the amount
500lb wrestler doing a top rope manuever or do- of intended injuryand the Match's Heat is de-
ing a frog splash from the top of a steel cage. Note creased by twice the amount of Injury Risked.
that, Wagering Heat is not the same as Risking Failing to roll a six has the normal effect (but it is
Injury but some moves can be considered both. obvious that the wrestler was trying to shoot.
To Wager Match Heat the player must announce
that he is doing so and how much Match Heat is Example: The Vindicator is angry with Magnus
being wagered (up to 10). If the Wrestling roll because he messed up in a previous match and
results in NO 6s the maneuver either fails or is now he wants to teach him a leason. He desides
met with utter disbelief and the Match’s Heat is he's going to break Magnus' nose (2 injury). If
reduced by the amount of Match Heat wagered. his Wrestling roll garners no 6's the attempt fails
If the roll results in at least one 6, increase the and the match continues as usual. If the roll suc-
Match Heat by the amount wagered. ceeds, Magnus' nose is broken, his Injury Trait
goes up by 2 and the match gains 4 points of Heat.
False Finishes
False Finishes are an easy way to increase a NOTE: Shooting and Clout
Match’s Heat. False Finishes involve convincing Shooting in a match is considered to be bad form
the crowd that one wrestler will win, and then and has adverse effects on the Shooter in the
having the pinned wrestler kick out at the last sec- Lockerroom. Most wrestlers will not want to
ond. False finishes are a touchy thing and involve wrestle someone who is known for Shooting. Pro-
a lot of match psychology - simply kicking out of fessional wrestling is about entertainment, not
a pin isn’t enough. False Finishes are a result of proving how tough you are. Players are discour-
two wrestlers building up the crowds anticipation aged from having their wrestlers Shoot unless it
to a peak. Doing this requires both wrestlers to is an aspect of that specific wrestler. Intention-
make Work Rate rolls. If Both wrestlers get at least ally causeing Injury to someone is illegal and wres-
one 6 then the Match’s Heat is increased by an tlers can take steps to prosecute or get a wrestler
amount equal to the total number of 6s rolled by fired for doing so. Shooting on an opponent is
both wrestlers. If either of the wrestlers fails to equivalent to making a number of Clout rolls equal
roll at least one 6 the False Finish fails to build to the amount of damage done in regards to Clout
enough anticipation an dthe Match’s Heat is re- reduction (and yes, you can still shoot if your Clout
duced by an amount equal to the total number of is zero).
1s rolled (yes that could be zero).
Intentionally Botching a Move Set
It is not unknown for wrestlers with a lot of Heat
to intentionally reduce a match’s Heat to keep his
opponent from advancing - wrestlers with a lot of
Heat can afford to lose Heat more than those with
low Heat scores. At any time before a player
makes a Wrestling roll the player rolling the dice
may declare that he intentionally screws up. Af-
ter the dice are rolled he can chose to ignore any
number of 6’s he rolled. If the player chooses to
ignore all of the 6’s rolled the match loses an
amount of Heat equal to the number of 1’s rolled
just as if the 6’s were never rolled. Note that ig-
noring all 6’s may result in a change of narration.

Risking Injury
Sometimes wrestlers attempt particularly danger-
ous moves in an attempt to get more Match Heat.
At any time during a match the narrating player
may choose to Risk Injury to himself, his oppo-
nent or both. The Booker can also declare that a
move is likely to injure either you or your oppo-
nent. When a wrestler performs a move that Risks
Injury the Booker must deside how much Injury Bleeding
is being risked (max of 10). The narrator will then Fans love blood! If a wrestler bleeds in a match
make his wrestling roll as usual. If the wrestling the Match gains 5 points of Heat. This bonus Heat
roll garners no 6s the wrestlers that were placed can only be applied once per wrestler.
in danger increase their Injury Traits by the amount
of Injury Risked. If the roll results in at least one Getting Busted Open
6, the Match's Heat is increased by twice the Any time a wrestler receives 2 of more points
amount of Injury Risked. For example: The Leap- of injury to the face he get’s busted open and
ing Luchador does a frog splash from the top rope bleeds. Injuries to other areas of the body can
onto Magnus and there is a steel ladder on Magnus. also bleed if it’s appropriate.
The Booker determines that this is Risking 4 points
of Injury to both wrestlers. If the Wrestling roll Bladeing
garners no 6's both wrestlers increase their Injury Fans may like blood, but most wrestlers don’t
rating by 4. If the roll succeeds, the match's Heat want to get busted open for the extra Heat. As
is increased by 8. an alternative, it is common for wrestlers to
use a small razer to cut their forehead. Even a
Note: Remember, not all moves are as dangerous tiny forehead cut can bleed quite a bit and once
as they appear. For example, falling 20' through a the blood starts mixing in with the sweat it
table may seem far more danger ous than simply can look really gruesome. Note that fans may
falling 20', but in reality the tables absorb a great love blood, but TV censors don’t. Unautho-
deal of the fall. Keep this in mind when deter- rized blading during a match is considered to
mining how much injury a wrestler is risking. be using Clout.
No Selling manager to remain backstage or loser kisses the
When a wrestler No Sells a Move Set he is inten- winner's ass. Match Heat modifiers for these types
tionally making the move look ineffective. Some of matches will vary depending on the effect they
gimmicks are built around No Selling moves. have on the match. The Booker should decide what
Wrestlers with gimmicks that portray them as be- modifiers should apply.
ing tough or unhurtable no sell moves as part of
their character - and that’s ok. However, when a
wrestler no sells a move that he should be selling
he risks causing the match to lose Heat. A player
can choose to No Sell at any time directly before
or after a Wrestling roll. Choosing to No Sell at
an inapropriate time causes the match to lose an
amount of Heat equal to the number of 6’s rolled
instead of gaining that amount. NOTE: You can
not choose to no sell if the your opponent is Shoot-
ing on you (see below).

Stipulations
Match stipulations are guaranteed ways of increas-
ing a match’s Heat. A match can have any number
of stipulations, but most matches only have 1 or
2, and almost never have more than 4. Each match
stipulation is described in the Appendix. Keep in
mind that some match stipulations do not work
well together.

+20 Match Heat

3 Tiered Cage Match, Death Match

+15 Match Heat:

Scaffold Match, Cell Match, Last Man Standing
Match

+10 Match Heat:

Barbwire Match, Cage Match, Ladder Match,
Table Match, Flaming Match, World Title Match

+5 Match Heat:
Ironman Match, Hardcore Match, Handicap
Match, Lumberjack Match, Strap Match, Chain
Match, Submission Match, Pole Match, Title
Match

There are many other stipulations that can come

into effect in a match, such as requiring a valet or
Using Trademark Moves and Finishers and a pin is made. If the attempt fails, the match
Fans love trademark moves and therefore wres- ends as planned.
tlers performing them are given extra dice to their
Wrestling rolls. Using a Trademark move gives a
wrestler 2 additional dice to roll. Using a finisher
grants the wrestler an additional 5 dice. Wrestlers
can only gain these extra dice ONCE per Move
Set. A wrestler can perform a Trademark move
any number of times during a match, but only re-
ceives extra dice once for every 3 minutes in the
match. A wrestler can only perform his finisher
once for every 6 minutes in the match without
penalty. Each time a wrestler uses his Finisher
and does not receive extra dice fans no longer see
it as being special and he risks losing it. In such
cases, a wrestler’s Finisher is degraded to a Trade-
mark move if the Move Set it is used in fails to
garner any 6s on the die roll.

Changing a Match’s Finish

Some wrestlers are so egotistical and worried
about their image that they will simply refuse to
let their opponent win (even when the match is
scheduled that way). Changing a match’s outcome
at this stage works nearly identical to the way it’s
done in the Locker Room. The only difference is
that the players make wrestling rolls instead of
Clout rolls. Despite the fact that you don’t make
any Clout rolls changing a match’s outcome is
consider to be using Clout inregards to Clout re-
duction.

Premature Finish
At any time during a match the narrator may
choose to end a match early by not letting his op-
ponent kick out of a pin or by Shooting and forc-
ing his opponent to submit. If the attempt suc-
ceeds the match ends, if it fails the match contin-
ues as usual.

Extending a Match
A wrestler may also choose to kick out of a pin
when he shouldn’t or no sell a submission move.
If the attempt succeeds the match continues until
the original winner reclaims control of the match
 The
Booker
Who is the Booker? Setting Up the Booking Sheet
In real life professional wrestling, the booker is During the Booking Committee the players should
the guy who sets up the matches. He desides who have come up with some interesting ideas about
will win and who will lose. In Kayfabe the Booker the upcoming Show. As the Booker, it is your job
does the same thing. However, he also has many to take all those ideas and put them all togther
more responsibilities. Being that this is a into a conhesive, entertaining show.
roleplaying game and that most players will want
to be wrestler, you won't have a separate person Time Management
to play the guys on the ring crew, the production It’s imperative that you remember that each show
crew or any of the other hundreds of people that is only 2 hours long. 30 minutes for commercials,
will come into play during the game. It is the 50 minutes for matches, 35 minutes for Skits and
Booker's job to roleplay all those "Non Player Promos and 5 minutes for interviews is a pretty
Characters" or NPCs. not only does the Booker good breakdown, but don’t feel obligated to stick
roleplay these NPCs, but he also determines when to that.
and where they come into play.
Giving the Players What They Want
Awarding Dice Try to use as many of the players’ ideas as pos-
sible. The idea of the game is for everyone to
Throughout the game session players have fun and if a player can’t do what he wants
will narrate their wrestlers actions. As how much fun is he going to have?
the Booker you can allo the player to
roll up to 2 additional dice if you feel Don’t Make it Easy
the narration was good. Simply stating When going over the ideas from the Booking
that you do a suplex and then a clothes- Committee be sure to adjust a few things and add
line is not sufficient to get extra dice. your own style. Don’t be afraid to completely
Us ethe following as a guidline: mess up the players’ ideas. Be sure to incorporate
wrestler’s Flaws and Assets into the mix. If a
“My wrestler puts the other guy in a re- wrestler has the “Friends with the wrong people”
verse headlock and then gives him a Flaw, make sure that friendship hinders the out-
DDT.” - no extra dice. come of his match. Likewise, if a wrestler has the
“Friends In High Places” Flaw, make sure those
“The Vindicator crushes Magnus’ head friends influence the show.
in a reverse headlock and then falls back
into a DDT smashing the top of Magnus’ Plotting Out The Show
head into the mat.” - 1 extra die. The placement of the match on the Card is deter-
mined by the Match’s Heat. The matches that fans
“Vindicator lets out a growl as he look forward to the most are typically at the end
squeezes magnus’ head in a devestating of the card. The last match of the Card is called
reverse headlock. As the crowd roars,
the Main Event. The match with the lowest Heat
cries of ‘Get him Magnus!’ and
is first on the card and the match with the highest
‘Magnus! Magnus!’ echo through the
Heat goes last. If there is a tie, the match that
arena. Magnus begins to stir and
involves the wrestler with the highest Heat usu-
struggle free until Vindicator crushes
Magnus’ skull into the mat with a DDT.” ally occurs last. Wrestler’s can always use their
- 2 extra dice. Clout to alter a match’s location on the card, so
don’t worry too much about it..
 Establishing a Cast of NPC
Though it's not necessary to know all the details about every possible NPC that can come into play, there
are a few primary NPCs that the Booker should have some notes on. Below is a list of NPC characters that
will most likely play an important role in your federation. Take a few minutes to come up with some names
and write a paragraph or so about each one. The bigger the roll the NPC will play teh more you should
write about him.

Other Wrestlers - A small group of 3 players will

only have between 6 and 12 wrestlers. Most wres-
tling companies have many more wrestlers work-
ing for them, not to mention the thousands of in-
dependent wrestlers out there who will work for a
different company every night. As the Booker you
are responsible for creating and controling all these
extra wrestlers. Even with larger groups you
should still create a few wrestlers to hold the titles
that the players don't have enough Heat to hold.

TV Representative - In some cases a TV station

will asign a representative to your company to
protect their investment. TV reps can be a hin-
derance in cases of content, but can be great as-
sets when you need to promote your company.

The Crew - In addition to the NPCs mentioned

above you also have to take into account the ring
crew, the medical staff, the TV production crew,
The Booker - Now don't get confused; the Booker security and all the other hard working people that
is an actual job. As an NPC the Booker is the guy play a part in making a show happen.
who sets up the matches and determines the win-
ner and loser. This is usually the guy wrestlers Censors (Standards & Practices)- Censors usu-
will have to talk to to get their match altered. ally don't work for the company. In most cases
they work for the TV station your show is aired
The Promoter - This is the guy who runs the on and make sure your shows don't violate any
whole show. He pays the wrestlers and sets up FCC or station regulations. Having a Censor in
the show. In many companies the Promoter will the game is a great tool to help the Booker pre-
also be the Booker. vent the players from having steel cage, explod-
ing, barbwire scaffold matches every show.
The Referees - Every federation will have at least
one referee to officiate the matches. Referees are Extras - When wrestler's perform Skits it is often
very important to the game because they in essense necessary to bring in actors to play the role of
help control the match. The ref not only passes police officers, medical staff or even fans. Most
messages back and forth between the wrestlers, extras are only used once or twice so there's not
but also from the production crew. In some cases much need to write much aout them unless they
the ref is just as important as the wrestlers. will be reaccuring characters.
 Drama
As the Booker it is your job to set up conflict and Possible Plot Twists
obstacle s for the players to overcome. Most of Relationship Problems
this will take place during the Locker Room ses- arrange for one of the wrestler’s wives to have
sion and will involve forces outside the individual an affair with a cameraman or another wrestler.
wrestler’s controls. This is always a good way to stir things up.

The Buddy System

Styles of Play Veteran wrestlers can be known for lobbying to
get jobs for their friends. Most of the time there’s
When playing Kayfabe there are two different only so much money available in the coffers. It
ways you can play: Realistic and Unrealistic. may be time to fire someone.

Character Flaws
Realistic Campaigns Flaws are a great way to throw a wrench into
In a realistic campaign wrestlers are just like you things. Perhaps a wrestler failed to show up or
or me; they have families, friends, pets, etc. They has shown up "in no condition to wrestle." How
live with the same problems we all face in our will his scheduled opponent react? Or maybe
one of the wrestlers finds a vile of illegal nar-
lives. As the Booker, you should play up these cotic in the dressing room.
things.
Getting Screwed
Money Sometime wrestlers get booked in matches that
just make them look really bad. Every so often
You may not think, after watching pro wrestling throw a wrestler into such a match and watch
on TV, that wrestlers have a tough life, but they him go balistic.
do. Starting wrestlers don’t make much money -
Competition
think about it, a wrestler with 10 Heat only makes
A rival wrestling federation has bought up the
$100 a night at best. take into account that some entire front row for the show. It is suspected
independent wrestlers may only work once or that they may try to interfere or otherwise ruin
twice a week and that money doesn’t go very far. the show.

Doing Favors
Family Issues Sometime the owner of the company may order
The home life of a professional wrestler is often a a wrestler to deviate from the scheduled outcome
difficult one. Being on the road all the time makes of a match and not to tell his opponent. Will the
wrestler follow orders and screw over the other
having a family very difficult. Some wrestlers wrestler or will his integrety get the best of him?
may only see their families a few days out of the
week. And as wrestlers get more famous it only Moral Issues
gets worse. Wrestlers that work for big promo- Schedule a wrestler to win the World Title and
then tell him his wife is sick in the hospital. This
tions may only be home once or twice a month. opportunity may not come up again for some
This can instigate all kinds of roleplaying poten- time. What will he do?
tial within the game.
Contract Negotiations
Wrestlers often work for several different pro-
A wrestler’s children can also be a useful tool when motions throughout their career. Every so often
devising drama. imagine what goes through an 8 it comes time to renegotiate a deal. Tell one of
year old’s head when he watches his father get the players that one of his wrestlers is being re-
evaluated and if he doesn’t have a good match
thrown through tables and hit with chairs all the
he could be let go.
time. It’s bound to take its toll.
Health Issues Unrealistic Campaigns
Though most wrestlers are in great physical shape, Unrealistic campaigns play out a lot like an ac-
they are still human like everyone else and tion movie. Try and imagine that your promotion
susseptable to getting sick or injured. A wrestler exisst as part of a TV show and not real life. In an
simply getting the flu can cause all kinds of prob- unrealistic campaign all kinds of things can hap-
lems in the game. The wrestler may simply call pen that may just seem odd or outright silly.
in sick, or try and tough it out and wrestler through
it. What happens when the entire crew comes Fighting Crime
down with it? In many ways wrestlers are kind of like super he-
roes. In an unrealistic campaign it’s quite pos-
Injuries are also a factor. Remember, not all inju- sible for your wrestlers to go out and solve crimes
ries are sustained in the ring. Wrestlers have the just like on all those prime time TV shows we all
same chances of getting hit by a car or slipping on watch. Maybe they even have their own cool van
some ice as anyone else. A wrestler breaking his that they drive around in called the Muscle Ma-
leg in a car accident can ruin an entire series, es- chine.
pecially if it happens right before a PPV.
Science Fiction
The Moral Right Set your campaign in outer space. Maybe your
There are all kinds of political groups out there wrestlers aren’t even human. Imagine the wres-
that would just love to see professional wrestling tling moves you could come up with if your wres-
go away. “It’s too violent”, “It’s a bad influence”, tler had 12 arms!
“It’s degrading to women”. These extremest
groups usually limit their involvement to hurting
a promotion’s advertising potential through lob-
bying, but some groups may go as far as picket-
ing outside an event, or outright sabotaugeing your
equipment. Things could get ugly.

The Censors
Some things are ok to air on TV and some things
are not ok. The censors make that desision and
there is no set standard to follow. One TV station
may allow blood while another may not. Here
are a few things that may get sensored from your
show:

Male on Female Violence

Blood
Barb Wire
Harsh Language (of varrying degrees)
Nudity
Homosexuality

The posibilities primarily depend on the network

that carries your promotion’s show.
Advancement
Advancing Your Wrestler Pay - Wrestler’s under contract get paid $1000
per year per point of Heat they had at the time
they signed the contract.
Improving Traits
After each PPV players may increase a wrestler’s Duration - A contract’s duration is determined
Wrestling, Mic Skills or Work rate Trait by 1 point. when it is signed. A standard contract lasts the
duration of 6 PPVs.
Gaining/Losing Assets & Flaws
After a PPV the Booker can choose to add or re- Working Without a Contract
move an Asset or Flaw from a wrestler if he feels Working without a contract has advantages and
it is warranted. disadvantages. While having a contract guaran-
tees your wrestler will get paid regardless of his
Increasing & Decreasing Heat performance, it also limits where he wrestles and
After every match, compare the match’s Heat to for how much. Wrestlers that work without a con-
the Heat of each of the wrestlers in the match. If tract get payed $10 per point of Heat they have
the match’s Heat is higher than the wrestler’s Heat each time they wrestle, but can work anywhere
increase the wrestler’s Heat as follows: they like. Most Booker’s are reluctant to push a
wrestler that can be working for the competition
Regular Match +1 point the following day.
Main Event Match +2 points
PPV Match +5 points Negotiating a Contract
PPV Main Event +10 points When it comes time for a wrestler to sign a con-
tract he may choose to surrender pay in exchange
If the match’s Heat is lower then the wrestler’s for certain Assets. Wrestlers may purchase the
Heat decrease the wrestler’s Heat as follows: following Assets at a rate of $10,000 per year per
Asset.
Regular Match -1 point
Main Event Match -2 points Creative Control
PPV Match -5 points Has a Valet
PPV Main Event -10 points Has a Manager
Insurance
Signing A Contract Perks
A Favor
Most independent promotions only require their
most valued wrestlers to sign a contract. When
When negotiating a contract remember that your
you first create your promotion only the experi-
wrestler has expenses. A wrestler isn’t very likely
enced wrestlers have a contract. Other wrestlers
to work for peanuts in exchange for Assets. be
may choose to sign a contract after their first PPV.
realistic and try to imagine how much you would
acccept as pay if you were a wrestler.
Contract Details
Exclusivity - Wrestlers that are under contract can
Renegotaiting
not wrestle for any other promotion without per-
Once a contract has expired the wrestler and
mission from the Booker.
Booker can choose to either extend the contract
another 6 PPVs or come up with a completely new
contract.
Advancing Your Promotion Failure
After the PPV is finished calculate the average If the Average Heat of your Roster is not higher
Heat of all the wrestler’s on your Roster. If that than your promotion’s Rating reduce the
number is higher than your promotion’s rating you promotion’s rating by the difference.
receive a number of Advancement Points equal to
the difference. Advancement points represent your Failing to Meet PPV Requirements
promotion’s profits and can be saved for later use Sometimes things happen that just make your PPV
or spent on any of the following: match imposible to happen as planned. Maybe a
wrestler failed to aquire enough Heat to hold a
Hiring New Wrestlers title, or perhaps his opponent was seriously in-
Adding new blood to your promotion helps keep jured and couldn’t wrestler. If a scheduled PPV
things fresh and gives you more options for match fails to occure reduce the promotion’s Rat-
matches. Hiring a starting wrestlers costs a flat 5 ing by 5.
Advancement Points. Hireing an experienced
wrestler costs a number of advancement points Firing Wrestlers
equal to the wrestler’s Heat. Wrestlers who are not under contract can be
fired by the Booker at any time. If a wrestler is
Giving Raises fired remove him from the promotion’s Roster
Increasing the pay of a current wrestler costs 1 and give the promotion a number of Advance-
Advancement Point per $1000 per year increase. ment Points Equal to the wrestler’s Heat.

Buying New Equipment

Filming your shows on a cheep VHS camera isn’t
gonna cut it if you want to hit the big time. As
time goes by your promotion will need to purchase
new production equipment, props and other hi-
tech equipment. Spending Avancement points on
new equipment increases your promotions rating
by 1 for every 5 points you spend.

Advertise
By spreading the word about your Promotion you
can increase the amount of Crowd Heat at your
next Series of shows. For every Advancement
Point you spend increase the Crowd Heat at your
next Series of Shows by 1 (max 10).

Medical Insurance
Most wrestling promotions don’t provide insur-
ance to theiur wrestlers, but in the long run it can
really help you out. For every Advancement
Points you spend on Insurance you can remove 1
point of injury from a wrestler in your roster.
Points of Serious Injuries can not be removed in
ths way.
Appendix
 Types of Matches
Tag-Team Match Elimination Match
A Tag-Team match is a match that has teams of 2 An elimination match is a match with more than
or more wrestlers. During a match of this kind 2 participants in which whenever a wrestler is
only one wrestler from each team is allowed in pinned he is eliminated from the match and the
the ring at the same time. Each team is assigned a match continues with the rest of the participants.
corner and participants who are not the “legal” This continues until only one wrestler remains.
man wait outside the ring by their corner for their
partner to “Tag” them in. When a wrestler is Ironman Match
tagged in his creator takes over narration of the During an Ironman match the wrestlers wrestle
match and the tagging wrestler must leave the for an entire hour. At the end of the hour the wres-
ring and wait to be “tagged in.” It is common for tler with the most pinfalls or submissions wins.
both teammates to remain in the ring for the dura- In game terms such a match works the same as a
tion of a single Move Set before leaving. The normal match, but has an excessive Time Limit.
match is the same as a normal match in all other
regards. Table Match
A Table match works similar to a normal match,
Handicap Match but with one exception. To win a Table Match
Handicap matches are just like regular matches you must throw your opponent through a table
except the match is 2 on 1, or 3 on 2 etc. instead of pinning him. There have been varia-
tions on this match where the table is set on fire
Hardcore Match before the person is thrown through it. Such Flam-
A Hardcore match is a “no holds barred” match ing Table Matches are more dangerous and there-
where you can use anything as a weapon and fore infrequent.
pinfalls count ANYWHERE.
Ladder Matches
Texas Tornado Match Ladder matches almost always involve a title belt.
A Texas Tornado Match is the same as a Tag Team In such a match the Belt (or similar match related
match except all the participants can be in the ring object) is suspended high above the ring. The first
at the same time (no tagging). wrestler to get to the item (by using a ladder) wins
the match. Ladder matches can be particularly
3-Way Dance brutal because it is completely legal to use the lad-
A 3-Way Dance is a match with more than 2 par- der as a weapon and it is not uncommon for wres-
ticipants that wrestle against each other. There tlers to do “high spots” off of the ladder.
are no “teams” but it is not uncommon for two
wrestlers to gang up on another. The first wres- Barbwire Matches
tler to pin either of his opponents wins the match. In a barbwire match the ring ropes are replaces
4- and 5-Way dances are not unheard of. with barbwire.

Submission Matches Flaming Matches

Submission Matches work like any standard match A Flaming Match involves the ring being sur-
except the only way to win is to make your oppo- rounded by a ring of fire. The first wrestler to
nent submit. catch on fire loses.
Last Man Standing Match Cell Match
A Last Man Standing match is similar to a A Cell match is similar to a cage match except the
Hardcore match except the wrestlers keep going cage (always chain link) not only surrounds the
until one man can’t continue. In game terms such ring, but 5 to 10 feet of the surrounding floor. In
a match works the same as a normal Hardcore addition the cage has a top that is about 20’ off the
match, but has an excessive Time Limit. arena floor. The winner of the match usually must
win by pinfall or submission. Climbing on top of
Strap & Chain Matches the cage is completely legal and usually expected
Strap and Chain Matches are just like a normal by the crowd.
match except the participants are attached by ei-
ther a 15’ Strap or Chain respectively which can 3 Tiered Cage Match
be used as a weapon. This type of match is similar to a Cell match ex-
cept there is a 10’ high cage on top of the Cell and
Lumberjack Match an additional 10’ high cage on top if that one. Each
Lumberjack matches work the same as a regular cage is smaller than the one below it. The second
match except the ring is surrounded by wrestlers cage is about 10’ smaller than the bottom cage on
(usually 2 or more on each side). If a wrestler each side and the top cage is about 5’ smaller on
tries to leave the ring the outside wrestlers may each side than the second cage.
use whatever force is necessary to put them back Participants must use a ladder to climb, from the
in the ring. ring, through a trapdoor into the second cage. The
second cage is filled with weapons such as steel
__________ On A Pole Match chairs and trash cans as well as a pair of bolt cut-
This kind of match is a toned down version of a ters which must be used to cut the chain locking
ladder match. Instead of the item hanging above the door to the cage. Once the door has been
the ring, the item is hung from a pole in one of the opened the wrestler goes out onto the top of the
corners. The wrestler that obtains the item (by bottom cage and must then climb up to the third
climbing to the top rope and grabbing it) wins the cage (the third cage usually has an additional
match. I matches where the item is a weapon the weapon in it, but it is not required to enter it. The
match does not end when the weapon is obtained. wrestler can then win the match by climbing to
At that point the weapon may be used and a win the top of the structure to obtain an item hanging
is obtained by a normal pinfall. above the top cage (usually a belt).

Cage Match Types of Wrestling Moves

In a Cage match the ring is surrounded (flush to
There are far too many wrestling moves to list here
the edge of the ring) by a 10’ steel cage (usually
without taking up move room than the list justi-
chain link, but occasionally steel bars). The way
fies. If you are unfamiliar with wrestling or would
to win the match varies from match to match but
like to learn some new moves a list of over 1000
usually involves the winner being the first wres-
wrestling moves can be found at Ray Duffy’s Big,
tler to get out of the cage either by climbing over
Big Book of Wrestling Moves.
the top or through the door (if it’s not locked).
The Big, Big Book of Wrestling Moves can be
Sometimes pinfalls and submissions are accept-
found online at
able ways of winning, but in all cases the cage
http://208.49.27.96/bbbowm/bbbowm.htm
can be used as a weapon.
 Glossary
Angle Dark Match
A wrestling "plot" which may involve only one Match performed at Televised events that live au-
match or may continue over several matches for diences get to see, but TV audiences don't. These
some time; the reason behind a feud or a turn. usually happen before the intro fireworks to the
show.
Blade
The practice of cutting oneself or being cut with a Dead
part of a razor blade hidden in tights, hair or wrap- Used in refernce to crowds that lack enthusiasm.
pings in order to produce juice.
Draw
Blow Up
To attract marks. n. the popularity of a wrestler,
To become fatigued or exhausted.
the ability to bring in marks.
Booker
DUD
The individual responsible for angles, finishes,
A particularly bad and totally uninteresting match.
hiring and firing in a promotion. In reference to
this game the Booker is the player who controls Face
all the characters not created by another player. Short for “babyface”. A good guy.
Bump Faction
A fall or hit done as a spot (see spot) which takes A group of wrestlers who have joined together.
the wrestler (or other participant, i.e. referee, man- Factions often have their own name.
ager) out of the ring or out of action.
Fall
Bury Short for “pinfall”. A referee's count of three with
The process of deminishing a wrestler’s Heat the loser's shoulders on the mat.
through booking. Many wrestlers are punished
Feud
by having them lose repeatedly or by making them
A series of matches between two wrestlers or two
look foolish.
tag teams, usually face vs. heel though
Canned Heat face feuds and heel feuds are not unknown.
Crowd heat generated from the arena’s speakers
Finish
system as opposed to the actual crowd. Done to
The event or sequence of events which leads to
both encourage crowd enthusiasm and disguise a
the ultimate outcome of a match.
dead crowd.
Foreign (International) Object
Card Something not allowed in the ring.
The series of matches in one location at one time.
Gimmick
Carry A wrestler’s in-ring persona. Something about a
This term refers to the act of a skilled wrestler wrestler that makes him different from other wres-
controlling the majority of a match with a less tlers.
skilled opponent to ensure the match gains Heat.
Green
Also refered to as Carrying your opponent.
Refers to wrestlers who are inexperience.
Hardway Juice Mark
Real blood produced by means other than blading, A term used todescribe someone who believes pro-
i.e. the hard way. One of the possible outcomes of wrestling is real, or seems to from over-enthusi-
a shoot. asm. Can be used in conjunction with an
orginization orpersonality to describe an enthusi-
Heat
astic fan.
Enthusiasm, a positive response.
Paper
Heel
Complimentary tickets v.t. to give lots of compli-
A bad guy, rule-breaker.
mentary tickets to make a house look good, par-
High Spot
ticularly for a television taping.
A manuever executed from an elevated location
such as the top rope or the top of a ladder. Plant
A person planted in the audience, as though they
House
were a fan; promotions often use plants to hold
The wrestling audience in the building said to be
up signs praising a certain wrestler/orginization,
composed of marks.
or to have them run-in during the course of the
Job event at some point.
A staged loss. A clean job is a staged loss by legal
Pop
pinfall or submission without resort to illegalities.
Sudden heat from a house as a response to a
v.i. To do a job. Sometimes combined with a de-
wrestler's entry or hot move.
scriptive adjective (stretcher job, rope job, tights
job.) Post
To run or be run into the ringpost.
Jobber
An unpushed wrestler who does jobs for pushed Potato
wrestlers. Sometimes known as fish, redshirts To injure a wrestler by hitting him on the head or
PLs (professional losers,) or 'ham-and-eggers.' causing him to hit his head on something.
Juice Psychology
Blood. v.i to bleed, usually as a result of blading. The practice of reading a crowd during a match
so as to know when to perform trademark moves,
Kayfabe
false finishes, etc. to get Heat.
Of or related to inside information about the busi-
ness, especially by fans. Origin is carny jargon Push
talk for "fake." The process of building up a wrestler’s Heat
through Booking. Wrestlers that are placed into
Kill
matches that gain them Heat on a regular basis
To diminish or eliminate heat or drawing power.
are considered to be being pushed.
There are a variety of ways to do this, but mostly
it is done by having a wrestler do too many jobs. Run-in
A house can be killed by too many screw-job end- Interference by a non-participant in a match.
ings.
Save
Luchador A run-in to protect a wrestler from being beat up
A Mexican wrestler. Famous for highflying after a match is over.
adrenalin filled matches.
Screw-Job
A match or ending which is not clean (definite)
due to factors outside the "rules" of wrestling.
Sell
To act hurt when a move has been applied. A no-
sell is when a wrestler gets up after another
wrestler's devastating move.
Shoot
The real thing, i.e. a match where one participant
is really attempting to hurt an other. The opposite
of work or fake.
Spot
An event or sequence of events which makes a
particular match distinctive, a high-point of a
match.
Squash
A totally passive job where one wrestler com-
pletely dominates another. v.t. to win a squash
match.
Stable
A faction or group of wrestler's united to watch
each other's backs.
Stiff
Chops, hits or moves which cause real injury
(though perhaps not more than a welting up of the
opponent.) Not a shoot, but almost.
Stretch
A form of shoot where one wrestler dominates
rather than injures the other as a proof of personal
superiority.
Turn
Change in orientation from heel to face or vice-
versa.
Work
A deception or sham, the opposite of a shoot.
Workrate
The approximate ratio of good wrestling to rest
holds in a match or in a wrestler's performance.
Also the ability of a wrestler to guide a match.
 Kayfabe
Wrestler Sheet

Name: ____________________
Real Name: ____________________

Wrestling
Work Rate
Mic Skills
Clout Used
OOOOOOOOOO
Lost Matches Assets
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO ____________________________
Heat ____________________________
____________________________
Heel / Face ____________________________
____________________________
Injury: OOOOOOOOOO ____________________________
Serious Injury: OOOOOOOOOO ____________________________
Trademark Move: _________________ ____________________________
Trademark Move: _________________ ____________________________
Finisher: _________________________ ____________________________
Salary: __________________________ ____________________________
Gimmick Flaws
______________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________
____________________________
Background ____________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________
 Kayfabe
Sample Booking Sheet
Hour 1 Hour 2
9:00 -9:10 Interview 10:00 -10:02 Skit
- Mr. M - Mr. M
- Killer Cane - Killer Cane
- The Overtaker - The Overtaker
9:10 -9:15 Commercials 10:02 -10:03 Promo
9:15 -9:17 Skit - The Justifiers
- Mr. M - Larry
- Killer Cane 10:03 -10:10 Match
9:17 -9:25 Match - Justifiers d. Daryl & Daryl
- Dog Boy d. Venom - Tag Team Titles
9:25 -9:30 Commercials 10:10 -10:15 Commercials
9:30 -9:32 Skit 10:15 -10:25 Match
- Warrior d. the Gimp
9:32 -9:33 Promo - Non-Title Match
- Freedom
10:25 -10:25 Promo
9:33 -9:40 Match - Flat Top
- El Diablo d. Freedom
10:26 -10:35 Match
9:40 -9:45 Skit - Flat Top d. Tornado
- Mr. M - Cruierweight Title Match
- Mrs. M - Hardcore Match
9:45 -9:55 Match 10:35 -10:40 Commercials
- Crippler d. Gilgamesh
- U.S. Title
10:40 -10:42 Interview
- The Overtaker
9:55 -10:00 Commercials - Killer Cane
10:42 -10:45 Commercials
10:45 -11:00 Main Event Match
- Overtaker d. Killer Cane
- World Title
- Strap Match