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Thank you to The Australian for covering some of the great programs we have developed at yourtown Australia to help with youth unemployment!

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This month, we have launched the Australian Roundtable Podcast!

The Australian Round Table is a 90 minute Brisbane-based podcast discussing the very latest domestic and international news - with additional featured segments such as guest interviews, guest panelists, internet features and much more.

An independent, grassroots media network - the podcast will be a central hub for all the biggest names in a continuously expanding platform of independent and alternative networks in Australia to share ideas, cross-promote brands and elaborate on vital information each week. The ART Podcast is committed to discussing issues not addressed by the mainstream establishment, and presents a must-needed alternative viewpoint in a world full of programmed narratives and daily manipulation of the pre-concieved world around us. The podcast serves as a focal point to launch a collaborative hub for like-minded individuals to listen, join in and/or contribute to combat a world full of spin, deception and lies.

Join the team each Sunday from 4pm LIVE! for the very latest in independent discussions about the world around us!

SUBSCRIBE: http://www.YouTube.com/AustralianRoundtable

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Last month, I launched the TOTT News Studio!

All information regarding plans with the studio can be found in this video.

Subscribe: www.YouTube.com/TOTTNews

All of my TOTT News work can be found here: http://afreelanceadventure.tumblr.com/post/74894653768/my-tott-news-work-latest-to-oldest

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WWE, ECW AND TNA LEGEND BULLY RAY SPEAKS TO ETHAN NASH

By Ethan Nash

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Bully Ray, one of the most accomplished professional wrestlers to ever lace a pair of boots, has seemingly done it all in the industry. From humbled beginnings in ECW, to WWE, Japan and now a veteran in TNA, Bully Ray opened up to wrestling media this week to discuss the future, TNA and Spike TV, Impact in New York and more.

Ethan Nash from EONS Wrestling was there to speak with him.

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I would like to start off with the question that is the talk of the TNA world right now: Did you have any reservations about putting your boss through a table?

Bully Ray: If you know the history of myself or of Team 3D/Dudley Boyz, you should know that when it comes to putting anybody through a table, we have absolutely no reservations. So, no - not an ounce of a reservation in my mind; I was more than happy to do it. I am a professional, I know exactly what I am doing and putting my boss through a table was probably the highlight of my TNA career.

Has there been any talk with you and Dixie Carter about a working relationship with your wrestling school?

BR: TNA and the Team 3D Academy in Kissimmee, Florida do not have a formal working relationship. However, some of the wrestlers that are on the roster; some of the up-and-coming wrestlers - do come and use our facilities. Many students from the Team 3D Academy have gone on to working in TNA. Names like Rob Terry and Chris Melendez - who will be debuting any day now for TNA as part of the Wounded Warrior Project. Sam Shaw was also a part of the Team 3D Academy.

So, many of or students have gone on to work for TNA, WWE and Japan, but we do not have a formal relationship.

I’ve been watching you in the ring for a number of years now and obviously have seen the development of Bully Ray as a performer. I’m intrigued to know what is next for Bully Ray after professional wrestling. Are you going to transfer to a behind the scenes position? continue your school? etc.

BR: I’ll definitely continue with the Team 3D Academy and continue to turn out young, quality wrestlers to help them achieve their dreams of getting into the wrestling industry. As far as sticking around the wrestling business once I hang up my boots - it’s definitely something I would love to do.

One of the things that I learned working with Paul Heyman as I was coming up in ECW, was my appreciation for helping younger guys learn our craft the proper way and being able to go out there and execute it. Paul always told me he got great enjoyment from seeing young guys go out there, taking a direction and making it work. I’ve adapted that love also. Whether I give some of the younger guys advice, or I help them out with their matches - to see them go out there and ‘get over’ is something that I really enjoy.

So, I’ll probably be sticking around until the day I decide to check out of this wonderful world.

Of course, you have just wrapped up a number of Impact tapings in New York and will be heading out to do another round of tapings this week. What can we expect from the new tapings?

BR: You can expect the same level of energy and great wrestling that you got from the first set of tapings. Performing in the North East - especially New York City - is always great for a wrestling company because the fans are so passionate for the product. So, you can expect to see the same exact thing; TNA wrestlers performing at their highest level.

Read more: http://www.wrestlehustle.com/tnas-bully-ray-speaks-with-wrestle-hustle/

Audio snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKEdFX8bKtA

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TNA SUPERSTAR ROCKSTAR SPUD SPEAKS TO WRESTLE HUSTLE

By Ethan Nash

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Rockstar Spud, a flamboyant, larger-than-life character in TNA, has become a permanent fixture on Impact programming with his charismatic television portrayals as the Chief of Staff for Dixie Carter and confidant of Ethan Carter III.

Two years after winning the first series of TNA British Bootcamp, Rockstar Spud opened up to wrestling media this week about the new series, X Division Xtravaganza, working in TNA, the future of Impact and much more. Wrestle Hustle’s Ethan Nash was there to speak with him.

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G’day Spud, great to speak with you today, mate.

Rockstar Spud: Hello sir, G’day. I’m glad you said G’day from Australia, that’s really magnificent [laughs].

It’s been two years since you won the first series of TNA British Bootcamp. What has the time been like since then for yourself??

RS: It has been an absolute whirlwind, to be honest. Since I’ve been brought up to television as Madam Dixie Carter’s Chief of Staff, it has been non-stop. I’ve had two weeks off recently and I honestly didn’t know what to do with myself. I’m living the dream and British Bootcamp was absolutely everything it promised to be.

It was an amazing time for myself, Marty Scurll and The Blossom Twins - and it’s a time we will never forget. You know, I briefly saw the finale of the first season from an advertisement for the new season and it just brought back all the same emotions that I had that day when they told me I was the winner. So, it’s been amazing.

It’s everything I dreamed it would be. I was at OVW for a year just learning so many elements of professional wrestling that I never even knew existed - which was amazing. Then, to be brought up to the roster and then and be in the position I am is amazing. I’m main eventing live events with Ethan Carter III, and I’m main eventing television, storylines on Pay-Per Views and I honestly couldn’t be happier with life right now. It’s unbelievable.

We’re obviously speaking on the British Boot Camp today, but I wanted to ask you a question for our Australian readers:

Have you heard anything on a possible Australian alternative? A few years ago there was talk of bringing a similar concept down under, and obviously bringing Impact on the road along with it. Do you have any updates or knowledge of whether something like this is going to happen?

RS: I personally have not heard anything recently. There was a lot of talk of having Australia air the program over there. I know for a fact there’s a lot of Australian and New Zealand talent working within the Australian scene, so if there’s any updates about that, I’m definitely looking forward to hearing them - because I’d like to take a look at the talent as extensively as I would with the UK talent. That would be amazing.

I mean, think about it: This process could go to India, Germany or Canada if we wanted too and set in stone an amazing recruitment process all over the world. So, if there’s any updates, you will hear them from TNA first.

Read more: http://www.wrestlehustle.com/tnas-rockstar-spud-talks-to-wrestle-hustle/

Audio snippet: http://youtu.be/oSBkTJb9bzg

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Amidst the empty bottles and shattered pieces; amidst the lonely nights and constant struggle to wake up each morning - I can still remember how mesmerised I was when I saw her that night.

I can recall every miniscule detail of how the entire room was in slow motion when she arrived; how my surroundings completely disappeared, and how my tunnel of vision was fixed only on her beauty.

I was frozen; utterly restrained by forces I could not feel, but knew were surrounding me. No power in the universe would have been great enough to move me or DARE snap me out of this trance I had found myself falling in

My entire human experience was resonating vibrations I had never felt before, and my heart was crying out profusely. It seemed like in front of me stood a long-lost piece of myself. In that instance, I (foolishly) connected myself to her. I NEEDED to understand her, I NEEDED her to be in my life somehow. I didn't know what I needed her for, but my god, nothing made more sense to me than that very moment.

All night - yes, all fucking night - I was consumed with being as close to her as I could. I wanted to watch everything she did; every little move and action to the smallest details. Christ, I swear that every fiber of my being cried out to have her in my arms. It felt like nothing else fucking mattered.

I watched as her right foot would invert a tad every time she passed someone. She didn't like to be in one place for too long; constantly moving in every direction. Never would she hold a drink in the same hand and she felt like floating around added diversity to the night. She was a standing-type of person; usually preferring not to sit whenever she was inside. A few hairs were longer on the left side of her fringe and when she laughed.. my god.

She danced like nobody was watching her; like those movements chipped away at any problem or conflicted thought that was stored in her mind. She smelled amazing; looked incredible - and whenever she passed me, the end of my fingertips went numb. Truth.

I don't think she ever noticed how much I saw inside of her that night. She was dancing with the stars, and all I could think of was how I could become a star for her to dance on.

How could someone be having such effect on me? I don't understand.

If magic isn't a real thing, than I am lost as to how such a person could cast a spell over me.

I cancelled my plans for the next morning; missing my ride home on purpose just so I could be in her presence for a just a fragment of time longer.

Never did the room return to the state it was before she arrived.

I knew in that instance I was fucked.

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ETHAN NASH SPEAKS TO TNA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, ERIC YOUNG

By Ethan Nash for EONS Wrestling News

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Slammiversary is approaching fast, and Eric Young - a man who has been with TNA for over 10 years and finally realised his dream of becoming World Heavyweight Champion - has the toughest challenge of his career, as he defends the championship in a triple threat steel cage match.

Last week, Eric opened up to wrestling media all over the world last week to speak about how his life has changed, Slammiversary, the future of TNA and much more. Ethan Nash from EONS Wrestling News was there to speak with him.

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G’day Eric, great to speak with you today. I’d like to congratulate you on finally winning the World Heavyweight Championship. I’ve been watching you for a number of year and it’s great to finally see you in the championship picture.

Eric Young: Appreciate it, man.

Before winning the championship - even until a few months ago - you were playing a backstage role; somewhat of a comedic role with your character. Did you ever reach a point during this time where you thought TNA were utalising your talent appropriately? or did you ever become complacent with the company or the creative direction you were taking?

EY: For me, other than winning the world title, the biggest day of my professional wrestling career was when I signed my first contract - to say this is what I do for a living. It sound cliché and kind of simple, but I’m just proud to be part of it. Professional wrestling is a very difficult thing to be in and I’ve been on TV every week for over 10 years. That’s insane for anybody. Furthermore, the versatility and being able to play different characters year-to-year is something I pride myself on; always have. If they want me to make people laugh? I can do that. They want me to make people not like me? I can do that. They want me to be World Heavyweight Champion? I can do that. They want me to be Tag Team Champion? I can do that.

I feel there’s definitely guys in the business that have that attribute too - but it’s not a huge number. They usually find their role, or find their niche, and that’s what they stick with for 10-20 years. I’ve done it all and I wouldn’t change that. I’m an experiential kind of guys and the more I can experience in wrestling, the better, man. I’ve seen it all and done it all, and I wouldn’t change any of it.

Continuing on from that and speaking of the different sides we’ve seen of Eric Young (Team Canada, Super Eric, Leader of the World Elite, Knockouts Tag Team Champion and various others throughout the years), do you have a favourite character out of all the different styles you have portrayed during your time in TNA?

EY: You know, they’re all kind of ‘my baby’. When people have more than one kid, it’s hard to pick a favourite and that’s how I feel about it. If I was to pick one, it would obviously be the role I’m in now. This is what I’ve dreamed about since I was five and that’s the truth. This is all I’ve wanted to do and all I’ve wanted to be, and I’m doing it right now. I’m defending the belt every week on television, representing the company, and pouring myself in to everything they give me 100%. I can’t do anything more than that and I can’t ask for anything more than the opportunity to do it.

So, my favourite would be the one I’m in now, but they’re all very special to me and I wouldn’t change any of it - from the comedic roles, to the World Elite, to the Knockouts champ and the likes. These are all important parts in my wrestling career and it’s cool for me that I can be that versatile and I can experience all these different aspects of the wrestling world. I am perceived in a hundred different ways, and I think the versatility keeps me relevant - something I hope to be for a very long time to come.

Read more: http://EONSWrestling.tumblr.com/post/89055253752/ethan-nash-speaks-to-tna-world-heavyweight

Audio snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNdO5L6KGWc

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Hire me for your next writing project!

My freelance writing services are now available for hire at: https://www.freelancer.com/u/ethannash1.html

I have a wide range of skills, including very sound attributes in Technical, Report, Article, Feature and Creative writing.

At the link provided above, you will find information about myself and example pieces of varied work. You can also find an in-depth background of my writing and educational qualifications.

Current rate is $5 per hour (we both agree on the number of appropriate hours it will take to complete the project), or I will offer a fixed rate and time frame to return the project myself. All money is paid when you are 100% satisfied with the final result.

Alternatively, you can view my work on this blog and contact me directly here.

You can also email me at EthanNash.CitizenJ@gmail.com for cheaper rates and more flexibility.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Ethan Nash.

Note: I have yet to engage in project work through the Freelancer website; hence the default ratings and statistics.

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TNA WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS THE WOLVES SPEAK WITH WRESTLE HUSTLE

By Ethan Nash

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Renowned as one of the most innovative and exciting tag teams in TNA history, newly crowned TNA World Tag Team Champions, Davey Edwards and Eddie Edwards – known as The Wolves – opened up to wrestling media this week about division wrestling, their beginnings, possible Australian appearances and more.

Wrestle Hustle’s Ethan Nash was there to speak with them.

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First of all, congratulations on winning the Tag Team Championships and the impact you have already made in TNA since joining. No doubt, already fan-favourites in the eyes of many and two of the best performers to watch in the ring.

Eddie: Thank you very much!

Davey: Thank you, man.

Starting from the very beginning: How did you start teaming together?

D: Eddie actually had to borrow a pair of my tights because he forgot his, and they fit! You know, if the shoe fits, wear it. We were over in Japan and we started talking about tights, and knee pads, etc. and from there we just eventually went with it.

Now, you’ve both competed in Ring of Honor and had a short sting in NXT. How would you compare your current spells in TNA to your spells in both NXT and ROH?

E: Well, NXT wasn’t a long thing. It was kind of in-and-out there, so it’s hard to compare anything there because we were only there for a week and one taping. In terms of Ring of Honor, you know, in terms of schedule-wise and style-wise it’s a whole different ball game here. We’re on the road a lot more, we’re working on the TV shows all the time – where as ROH was just a couple times a month. So, in that instance, we’re in the ring a lot more and on TV a lot more, so that’s been a good thing.

I want to get your thoughts on your first reign as TNA Tag Team Champions. Do you think it got the recognition it deserved?

D: I mean, it is what it is, man. I thought we were fully supported when we won the titles, but it wasn’t on a national stage and it wasn’t on live television, or Pay-Per View. But we were true with respect for our fans, and unfortunately it didn’t last very long because we flew to Japan shortly afterwards. We didn’t get pinned though, it was just the rules of the match, you know. Now is different; now we are in for a lengthy reign as champions.

E: I think the fact that we won it at a live event kind of makes those events unique and people will want to go and be a part because you never know what’s going to happen. Titles changing hands, and shenanigans pursue.

Read more: http://www.wrestlehustle.com/tna-tag-champs-the-wolves-speak-with-wrestle-hustle/

Audio snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0p071YGEqkY

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Exclusive passage from Isolated Thoughts

I feel tired. Not a regular ‘time-to-become-unconscious-now-that-the-sun-is-down’ tired – but a tiredness felt in the core of my bones. A tiredness that has depleted any appetite I have – both for food and life – and threatens to swallow me whole if it continues to persist. Which it will.

There is no escaping the feeling of being completely drained of the natural genetic makeup of life; such as love, passion and happiness. Despite the level of accomplishment forever edged underneath my name, I still feel as if I have done nothing.

Nothing that makes it all worth it. Nothing convinces me that my soul purpose on this desolate star wasn’t to pay for past injustices in a previous life. I can’t sleep. I can’t ever be comfortable, try as I might. One can only comprehend the fullest extent of the illusion of time when in this hypnotic trance.

Trust is a lie. No such thing exists – or will it ever. The reality of the nature is that we, as individual entities, are alone in this world. Sure, somewhere deep down in the core of my being, I would like to believe that we aren’t. However, anybody who attempts to contradict this statement is only lying to justify their own inner-fears – similar to an addict who blames everyone else for their problems.

Indeed, there is a certain pain that cripples the body once this nightmare begins to gather speed and it will eventually swallow me whole. No doubt, at the very moment I sit and write this – she is with him or thinking about him at best. I don’t think I can ever come to terms with that very fact alone.

The thought of him with her; the thought of the two interlocking energy has tied knots in the inners of my heart. I adore her so much, and to think of her underneath him; tasting him; kissing him; feeling him (and vice versa) is something my heart can no longer comprehend. I pause. Why me? Not even the most heinous of physical attacks could measure to the pain deep inside the soul of this hypocritical fool. Inside of me.

It’s my fault. Nobody else is responsible. It is my own conscious actions that led to this.

Nobody around me; just the painful memory of times when I hadn’t lost everything. All I have left is writing. Perhaps, all I ever had was writing – everything else was just my imagination.

Please stay tuned for more information and insight about the book and what is happening with it.

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MAGNUS AND SAMOA JOE OPEN UP AHEAD OF THEIR CHAMPIONSHIP ENCOUNTER THIS MONDAY AT LOCKDOWN

By Ethan Nash

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Returning from a string of successful events in the UK, TNA heads to Miami this weekend for their annual premier Pay-Per View event Lockdown, which will see World Heavyweight Champion, Magnus defend his championship again the ‘Samoan Submission Machine,’ Samoa Joe inside of a 2-tonne Steel Cage.

Before facing off in the squared-circle, both competitors opened up to the world to speak Lockdown, life as a wrestler, TNA’s new direction, their careers and much more.

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I want to ask you guys about the importance of headlining the first 3-hour PPV in quite some time for TNA, and also the return of Lockdown to the original format of all cage matches. Does that make your job easier or harder as main eventers?

Magnus: I think it makes our job more difficult, honestly. However, I don’t think both of us look at it from the standpoint of being something we don’t want to be involved with. I think it’s just the case of forcing us to think a little harder and think outside the box as to what we’re going to do to send those people home happy. As far as the responsibility, it’s newer territory to me and familiar territory to Joe – so it’s a chance to prove myself again and I’m looking forward to it.

Joe: There are always challenges in the realm of professional wrestling, and I think that’s what is expected from great wrestlers on that level, so that’s primarily up to us. As far as the importance of us headlining a PPV – and one that hasn’t happened in quite a while – it’s tremendously important. TNA is a different company now, even than what it was a year ago and there’s a lot of great chemistry going around. I believe this PPV will be the hallmark of the new team in TNA.

Read more: http://www.wrestlehustle.com/magnus-samoa-joe-talk-wrestling-media-ahead-of-this-mondays-tna-lockdown-ppv/

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Isolated Thoughts: Book update

After a lengthy decision process, I have decided that at the present time I will attempt to complete and publish the project.

This was after I reached out on my personal Tumblr for others to join in and send me their rawest emotions in text format, and the response was great and inspiring.

As the book progresses, I will reveal further information about what it is about and what is happening - so keep an eye out.

This is currently the hardest task I have ever done. It may take a week; it may take a year. Either way, the journey has just begun.

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The History of Tables, Ladders and Chairs

By Ethan Nash

16/12/13

(3,327 words)

Note: Following the closure of Wrestle Hustle Australia, MMA SPORTS LTD. attempted to re-launch Rumble Magazine in Australia. This article was to be published in the return issue, however (to my knowledge), the project has now been abandoned.

Tables, Ladders and Chairs; Three words that have been edged into the annuals of professional wrestling history, and have continuously elevated superstars to the pinnacle of the business. Few matches have captivated the imagination of wrestling fans throughout the world, and few have succeeded in remaining relevant enough in the modern WWE landscape to maintain the same excitement. As Randy Orton wins the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at TLC 2013, Ethan Nash takes a look back at the history of TLC matches, and the impact that they continue to have today.

INNOVATIVE METHODS

A short analysis of wrestling history will show anyone that Tables, Ladders and Chairs are synonymous with the modern wrestling world in their own respective rights. Taken from ‘hardcore’ wrestlers (quite frankly, ahead of their time) in the 1960s and 1970, to the small arenas of promotions like ECW; trickled into Madison Square Garden and demonstrated on a mass scale during the Attitude Era. No matter the match, no matter the weapon, you could always count on it being one to remember.

Indeed, some of history’s greatest matches contain such foreign objects; can we all agree? Who will ever forget Razor Ramon and Shawn Michaels going toe-to-toe at WrestleMania X for the Intercontinental Championship? Now, as the 20th century came to an interesting end, ladder matches were certainly nothing new in the world of professional wrestling. I dare say that no promotion could confidently say that a ladder match was something that was exclusive to their product. Indeed, none that I can think of in the United States (at least) would have the right to this claim, as ladder matches had surfaced all over the world and been seen by millions of fans by this time. The moral here, is to ask yourself how did TLC (which, in all respects still remains essentially a basic ladder match) become almost exclusively identified with the WWE?

DYNAMIC TRIO

The TLC match was developed after a series of encounters between Edge & Christian, The Dudley Boyz and The Hardy Boyz in 1999; that would catapult the teams to notoriety in the eyes of a new generation of fans. The first, between Edge & Christian and Matt & Jeff, would be a ladder match at No Mercy for the managerial services of Terri Runnels. This would culminate in a standing ovation from the audience, as many believed that the teams took the ladder match that was popularised by Shawn Michaels and Razor Ramon to the next level – and subsequently cemented their status within the company in that one moment.

Shortly thereafter, D-Von and Bubba Ray would soon enter the picture following their departure from ECW, and would meet the Hardy Boyz in a long-running series of tables matches that captivated the imagination of fans. Some (including myself) hold matches like this as the backbone in Raw’s success against Nitro in the Monday Night Wars – and, to their credit – the company took note of this. Realising the tremendous success value of these three teams, the WWE decided to take it up a notch – and introduce a match that would change the industry forever.

As Summerslam 2000 approached, the company decided to schedule the first ever Tables, Ladders and Chairs match to substantially capitalise on such variables. In fact, the very name was deprived from the weapon-specialties of both teams, as The Dudley Boyz had been synonymous with tables since their days in ECW, Matt & Jeff were known as high-flying daredevils (thus, the ladders), and Edge and Christian at the time had increasingly used chairs during their matches.

The time had arrived, and TLC I would go off with an emphatic bang – as Edge & Christian would win the historic match that night to retain their WWE Tag Team Championships. This was perhaps one of the most incredible displays of superstar talent that one could witness in the entire business, and was truly the cornerstone in establishing all of these men as marquee talent in the professional wrestling industry. In the aftermath of this amazing encounter, the fans demanded more – and, oh boy would they get it – as TLC II was soon scheduled for the biggest event of the year.

The event was WrestleMania 17; a Pay Per View considered by many to be the greatest in WWE history (for obvious reasons). TLC II was booked, and little did fans know beforehand that this match would be the defining element that made WM X-7 the incredible spectacle that it was. In preparation for this article, I went back and re-watched this match to get the nostalgic feelings pumping, and to understand just how significant this match remains when developing what I would write. Even to this day, TLC II remains a show-stealing performance from all three teams, with action from intense start to climatic finish. All three teams stepped up their previous performance to incredible heights in this match, with unforgettable moments such as Jeff Hardy's insane Swanton Bomb off a 16-foot ladder and Edge leaping to spear Jeff Hardy, who was dangling from the loop that holds the belts above the ring.

Without a single doubt in my mind, this was the best match from the WrestleMania X-7 event, and one could only hold the end of the Austin/Rock main event in comparison – in terms of leaving an audience speechless at what they were seeing. Fans around the world had been treated to some of the very best action you can ever see in professional wrestling, and now, the bar had been set. In just a short period of one year, a new match had edged itself amongst other signature WWE matches (Hell in a Cell, etc.) – and this was just the beginning of a world of things to come.

DEVELOPMENT OF TLC

WrestleMania X-7 was an amazing spectacle; indeed a great variety of action and entertainment from start to finish. I personally believe that TLC II is the backbone that made this the case, and the fans agreed; lusting for more following the event. The bar had been set – and the calls of fans worldwide would soon be answered by a match booked on SmackDown in mid-2001. Just months after WrestleMania, and despite very minimal promotion or hype (in fact, it was as spontaneous as any match that I can remember), TLC III would be the first to take place on network television – and would prove to be worthy to follow in the footsteps of its predecessors.

In this match, the three infamous teams from TLC I and II were back at it again, although this time they were gunning for Chris Jericho and Chris Benoit’s WWE Tag Team Championships. An interesting encounter to follow so soon after WrestleMania, but none-the-less, it was an entertaining match – incorporating all of the familiar action we had grown to love. High flying skills, combined with aggressive nature, flawless manoeuvres and technical prowess would add a unique element to this match, as Jericho and Benoit would retain their titles. This would be the last TLC match to take place on the SmackDown brand to this very day – and the last we would see for over a year.

The ‘Raw Roulette’ on the October 7th, 2002 edition of Raw would be the catalyst for the fourth TLC in match in WWE history, as defending Tag Team Champions Kane and The Hurricane would face the teams of Bubba Ray & Spike Dudley, Jeff Hardy & Rob Van Dam and Christian & Chris Jericho. Despite having some entertaining moments throughout the match, this remains perhaps one of the less memorable TLC showcases in WWE history. To briefly summarise (as there is not that much to talk about), Kane would retain the championships on his own following the backstage assault of Hurricane. To be blatantly frank with you, if you haven’t seen every single TLC match, I would recommend checking out others before viewing this particular bout. In fact, perhaps the next match I am about to speak about fits that recommendation very nicely.

The fifth TLC match in WWE history returned to Raleigh, North Carolina in 2005; as WWE Champion Edge successfully defended his championship against Ric Flair. I can still remember this match so well, as it remains something that stuck out in my mind’s-eye – even to this day. How is Ric Flair able to pull this off? I continuously asked myself during the bout; as Flair was covered in blood (bladed) and pulling off spots a man his age should not be able to do. This was the first ever singles TLC match and the first for the WWE Championship – definitely one to remember!

Edge was back once again to defend his WWE Championship at Unforgiven 2006, although this time was unsuccessful in retaining the title against John Cena. I remember this match quite well, as I was a fan of the Edge/Cena fued ever since I listened to the Main Event live audio of New Year’s Revolution in 2005. You know, the event where Edge cashed in his Money in the Bank and became the champion? (Foxtel used to still have the audio of an event if you hadn’t paid; something that you won’t find today). An F-U – yes, I said it – off the top of the ladder and through some tables, and Cena walks away with his hands raised in his first (but not final) TLC encounter. Perhaps a personal favourite TLC match of mine, no doubt.

By this point, I ask the reader if you have noticed a pattern by now? Surely you have, but for those who haven’t, the particular pattern I am describing is the fact that Edge has competed in almost every single TLC match to date (in fact, only missing one – due to being on SmackDown at the time). TLC VII has arrived, and (surprise, surprise) Edge would be back again approximately two years later for yet another showdown. This time, Edge would win the vacated World Heavyweight Championship against The Undertaker at One Night Stand 2008, and by memory, this was voted one of the highest rated TLC matches in WWE history. Quite frankly, it is hard to argue when seeing the footage, as it is truly a match with repeat qualities.

TLC VIII returned nine years later to the Pay Per View it was first held, as CM Punk would win the World Heavyweight Championship from Jeff Hardy at Summerslam 2009. This marked the first time Jeff Hardy had participated in a singles TLC match, and it was one for the ages; truly a fitting match to symbolise almost a decade since TLC had first began. High flying and hard-hitting is the best way to describe this match, as it still remains a classic in the eyes of fans all over the world. However, as the landscape of the WWE began to dramatically change after mid-2008 (whether for good or worse), the company decided to introduce a number of themed Pay Per View events to replace titles like ‘Armageddon’ and ‘Unforgiven’. This was a result of a number of things – particularly the PG-Era and subsequent shift of business – and allowed the opportunity for a PPV appropriately titled ‘TLC’ to debut that very same year.

RELEVANCE TODAY

At this point, a total of eight TLC matches had taken place before this decision to establish a PPV event, and Tables, Ladders and Chairs 2009 would feature main events where there would be a ladder match, a tables match, a match where steel chairs were legal as weapons and the final bout of the evening would be a traditional TLC match. The 2009 event would feature Chris Jericho & The Big Show going up against D-Generation X for the Unified WWE Tag Team Championships. This was the first TLC match to not feature a member from either Edge & Christian, The Hardy Boyz or The Dudley Boyz, as Triple H & Shawn Michaels would pick up the win after a very good match (yes, DX were still kicking ass in 2009).

I must admit, I was initially extremely sceptical of a move to introduce themed Pay Per View events (part of me still is deep down), however, in contrary to the PPV’s counterparts – most notably Hell in a Cell and Elimination Chamber – TLC matches have far from diminished in significance following this decision. In fact, some would argue that the historic value of the match itself has increased now that it is a regular occurrence. A vital key to this claim can be found in the quality essentials, and rather, how matches like this are compared over time in the WWE.

Nowadays, the violence seen in Hell in a Cell matches – such as barbed-wire baseball bats and thumbtacks – is completely gone in the PG-Era of WWE. Insane, career-threatening bumps were a part of the early TLC bouts, but blood, barbed wire and fire weren't key components in retrospect. Chair shots, tables and ladders are all still around, with the only difference being that they are contained for obvious injury risks. A common chair shot now occurs to the back instead of the head, which (in my opinion) isn’t that much of a decrease in quality – as say a Hell in a Cell match –where fans watch on whilst remembering Mick Foley plunging off the roof of the cage or Undertaker & Brock Lesnar smearing the mat red with blood. The expectation in the minds of the fans is what makes TLC relevant in 2013.

Continuing on now, and just as 2009 kicked off this newly founded event with a bang, it would repeat this when returning a year later at TLC 2010. For the first time, a TLC Fatal-4 Way match was booked for the World Heavyweight Championship, in a match between Edge (in his seventh and final TLC appearance), Kane, Rey Mysterio and Alberto Del Rio. In expected fashion, the TLC veteran Edge won the match and became World Heavyweight Champion, and would retire early the following year due to obvious neck complications. No doubt, his TLC legacy will never be forgotten.

Alberto Del Rio, hot off his first TLC encounter, would be back again next year at TLC 2011 – this time going up against CM Punk and The Miz for the WWE Championship. I can’t help but notice whilst looking back at how amazing it is that TLC has grown from a mid-card tag-team level match-up, to now being a cornerstone for major superstars to home their craft and championships to be waged; a testament to the popular culture that grew following the WM X-7 performance. In impressive fashion, Punk retained his championship, and has remained undefeated in TLC matched to this very day (perhaps following in early Edge’s footsteps?).

A little closer to the present, and TLC 2012 was a unique and sudden turn of events. Originally, CM Punk was scheduled to defend his WWE Championship against Ryback, but suffered a knee injury on December 3rd. As a result, Vince McMahon cancelled the match and replaced it with one featuring The Shield vs Ryback and Team Hell No. This marked the first TLC match with teams of three, and the first ever to be decided by pinfall or submission (which I found quite an unusual move). Surprisingly, this was a very good encounter, with loads of pumps and intense action – definitely filling the shoes appropriately. CM Punk’s TLC match with Ryback would eventually happen on the January 7th, 2013 edition of Raw. CM Punk would retain the title after The Shield got involved. It was a solid match for what it was worth.

To put this 12 year journey into perspective, and to analyse how TLC has evolved – again I return to the relevance of expectations in a modern WWE world. Sure, one cannot deny that table matches are now few, chairs were reduced to their former roles as interference, and ladders and Ladder matches are now used on occasion and regulated. However, I believe that this lack of recurring action has added a desire to see this type of match – because, as I said – the expectations (even after all of these years) still remain fulfilled whenever TLC comes around.

2013: WHERE TO FROM HERE?

By the time you read this article, there is no doubt that you would have seen TLC 2013 and the events that occurred in Houston. After viewing the match between John Cena and Randy Orton, I can honestly say that it did let me down quite a lot in terms of significance. I thought that with the lack of quality matches on the card, something major would happen in the main event – although this wasn’t the case to be. Sure, there was a few good spots and interesting match psychology, but was this really all that “…the most pivotal match in WWE’s 50-year history” could display? I did expect more from both competitors and of course from the match itself – and I definitely had many questions to raise afterwards.

Of course, the most significant we must ask ourselves is: Where does the WWE go from here? I, myself (at the time of typing this), cannot tell you where the company will head with this new Undisputed Championship concept. I would love to see an Orton/Jericho main event at WrestleMania (with involvement of Triple H in the story; think of the history), but that is a wild speculation and isn’t likely to happen as I can see at the present moment. I presume that Cena will remain in the picture, as this situation remains far from over, but I still would love to see Jericho become involved somehow. Furthermore, a question I have to ask is: Where does this leave TLC?

I have no doubt that the event will continue, but on an historical level, where does this leave its legacy? I have always been told the story of a legends who stay around too long and diminish his/her legacy. As of late, the same confidence that I had in TLC to stay relevant and not become a second-rate Hell in a Cell-type joke is slowly fading. This has been affirmed after watching TLC 2013, although I cannot deny that this isn’t the first time that a TLC match has let me down. I suppose I will have to re-watch the match before making a permanent decision, as I suspect that the hype was a major part as to why this encounter let me down. One thing is for sure, I hope the WWE will schedule a better event next year, that’s for sure.

At this point in time, I will remain optimistic as to where this situation will culminate, and try to remember that the TLC match itself can and will adapt with the times. For now, I look back on the short history of Tables, Ladders and Chairs as a match that I grew up loving – and, after revisiting the past – a match that remains a vital part of modern professional wrestling. It is a match that holds so many special moments; a match that any wrestling fan can sit back in awe after watching. Without a doubt in my mind, I can confidently say that TLC matches hold some of the greatest moments in WWE history – and will continue to do so as we enter the uncertain future of sports-entertainment.

[afreelanceadventure]

From December 2012 to October 2013, I was a columnist and writer for Wrestle Hustle Australia. I published monthly articles in Wrestle Hustle Magazine, and occasionally would publish on the main website.

You can check out all of my work with Wrestle Hustle Australia below or by clicking here:

My interview with Former WWE/World Heavyweight Champion Jeff Hardy (Full text): http://ethanoxidenash.tumblr.com/post/48602774596/ethan-nash-interviews-jeff-hardy-following-the

Ethan Nash speaks to Jeff Hardy before Lockdown 2013 (Audio snippet): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5et7XmUkeNg

Brock Lesnar: WWE to UFC, Back to WWE - What’s next?! (Cover story, WHM Issue #2, page 21) - http://issuu.com/whm-mag/docs/002

The Rise of Wade Barrett (WHM Issue #3, page 10) - http://issuu.com/whm-mag/docs/0003

Batista: A Retrospective (WHM Issue #4, page 12) - http://issuu.com/whm-mag/docs/004

This Month in History: May (WHM Issue #5, page 51) - http://issuu.com/whm-mag/docs/whm5

This Month in History: August - http://www.wrestlehustle.com/the-month-in-wrestling-history-august-wethan-nash/

This Month in History: September (WHM Issue #6, page 52) - http://issuu.com/whm-mag/docs/issue006

[afreelanceadventure]

My TOTT News work (Latest to Oldest)

Although unrelated to my freelance work, the following is an archive of my TOTT News work. This list will be updated regularly.

www.TOTTNEWS.com www.Facebook.com/TOTTNews www.YouTube.com/TOTTNews www.Twitter.com/EthanTOTT

Articles:

Vodafone admits governments use secret cables to tap phones: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2014/06/07/vodafone-admits-governments-use-secret-cables-to-tap-phones/

No confidence: Thousands march in Brisbane against the Abbott government: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2014/03/16/no-confidence-thousands-march-in-brisbane-against-the-abbott-government/

Brisbane protesters gather at King George Square in opposition to Geoengineering: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2014/02/16/brisbane-protesters-gather-at-king-george-square-in-opposition-to-geoengineering/

Erosion of Privacy in Australia - Basic facts you need to know: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2014/01/23/erosion-of-privacy-in-australia-basic-facts-you-need-to-know/

Concerns over appointment of new Australian Human Rights Commissioner: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2013/12/21/concerns-over-appointment-of-new-australian-human-rights-commissioner/

Forum held in Brisbane to address 2014 G20 summit, police powers: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2013/09/27/forum-held-in-brisbane-to-address-2014-g20-summit-police-powers/

Analysing Mass Media: Fear and Manipulation (Part 1): http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2013/08/04/analysing-mass-media-fear-and-manipulation-part-1/

Ministers involved in shredding of ‘Heiner Affair’ papers may be guilty of criminal offence: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2013/07/05/cabinet-ministers-involved-in-shredding-of-heiner-affair-papers-may-be-guilty-of-criminal-offence/

Hundreds ‘March Against Monsanto’ in Brisbane: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2013/05/25/hundreds-march-against-monsanto-in-brisbane/

Eugenics in Australia: Melbourne’s Hidden History: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2013/03/04/eugenics-in-australia-melbournes-hidden-history/

Welcome to the all NEW TOTT News website!: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2013/02/17/welcome-to-the-all-new-tott-news-website/

Mandatory Fluoridation in Queensland scrapped: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2012/12/04/mandatory-fluoride-in-queensland-is-no-more/

Channel 7 under fire: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2012/07/22/channel-7-hits-new-low/

Ethan Nash’s open letter to Julia Gillard about GM Wheat in Australia: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2012/05/02/ethan-nashs-letter-to-julia-gillard/

Australian Government won’t reveal stance on Iran war: http://www.TOTTNEWS.com/2012/02/27/government-wont-reveal-stance-on-iran-war-tott/

Sitting down with Freemasons Queensland: http://TurnOffTheTelevision.tumblr.com/post/10882935715

Video/Photo Coverage:

March Against Monsanto (Brisbane) (25/05/14): https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.655986991116794.1073741828.189193961129435&type=3

No War with Syria! Rally (Brisbane) (31/08/13) - RAW FOOTAGE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vUOlvVALSTY

No War with Syria! Rally (Brisbane) (31/08/13): https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.540530505995777.1073741825.189193961129435&type=3

2011/2012 EVENT COVERAGE - PHOTOS (includes 9/11 Street Action: 18/06/11, Carbon Tax Protest: 20/08/11, 9/11 Street Action: 10/09/11, 10th Anniversary 9/11 Street Action, Occupy Brisbane (Day 1): 15/10/11, Anti-Coal Seam Gas Rally: 16/10/11, Fluoride Awareness Day: 19/11/11, Occupy Brisbane (Small Rally): 26/11/11, Justice For Assange Rally: 17/12/11, 99 Rally: 30/12/11, Pro-Choice vs Pro-Life: 11/02/12, Protest for Australia’s Dugongs and Turtles: 14/02/12, International Women’s Day Rally: 10/03/12, Rally For Marriage Equality: 12/05/12, Rally For Julian Assange/Bradley Manning: 31/05/12 and Rally For Marriage Equality: 11/08/12): https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.204561292926035.45758.189193961129435&type=3

TOTT Extra/Exclusive Footage: National Day For Marriage Equality (12/05/12): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQrIeO9maE8

TOTT Extra/Exclusive Footage: International Women’s Day Rally (10/03/12): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqEuDNzwQBQ

TOTT Extra/Exclusive Footage: Occupy Brisbane: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5yKs7uouzc

TOTT Extra/Exclusive Footage: Anti-CSG Rally (16/10/11): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3ksFXcZGBg

Dugong & Turtles Rally (Brisbane) (14/02/12): http://youtu.be/ec12bZrnoUs

Protest Clash: Pro-Choice vs Pro-Life (Brisbane) (11/02/12): http://youtu.be/MRi8oQrW2Kg

Fluoride Awareness (Beenleigh) (19/11/11): http://youtu.be/7OzEvTqO0TE

Anti-CSG Rally (Brisbane) (16/10/11): http://youtu.be/ayf36-KT-Hk

Occupy Brisbane Begins (15/10/11): http://youtu.be/YPYgLMMz5NE

A Decade Passed: 9/11 Street Action w/ We Are Change Brisbane (11/09/11): http://youtu.be/4cub3egvfY0

Interviews

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASwtecoCnLo&feature=share&list=PLEpgE2fRh_L13IFtfgbNQ_ZEbYqlJPxsj

[afreelanceadventure]

Script: Justice and Moral Equity in the 21st Century - The War on Terror

By Ethan Nash

07/11/13

(3,325 words)

Note: This script is accompanied with a Powerpoint presentation (including images, etc) and has been constructed to address first-year Legal Study students at a University Level. Furthermore, this has been written from an accepted mainstream perspective. That is, Al-Qaeda were responsible for the 9/11 attacks. Please email me in regards to any of these points if needed.

Good morning all and welcome to Parliament House, my name is Ethan Nash. I hope the journey wasn’t too treacherous, as I know the streets of Brisbane can be a tough task for most, even at the best of times.

As you can see on the screen, today I will be speaking about Terrorism – and more specifically – I will be examining whether the principle of fairness and moral equity is fact or fiction in the 21st century on this basis.

It has now surpassed a decade since the events of 9/11 dramatically shaped the way we live, and as an emerging state of war and legislative changes were soon established, the United States positioned themselves as the pioneers in an everlasting, international cry to stop acts of terror once and for all around the world.

The ‘War on Terror’ has become a symbolic topic of international scholars, legal experts, and diplomatic discussions, and today we will be examining whether or not the United States were justified under international law to launch wars on both Afghanistan and Iraq in 2001 and 2003 respectively – by categorically breaking down the events surrounding the invasion of both countries.

Naturally this will examine the topic subject of Justice, as well as the concept of universal jurisdiction, the doctrine of humanitarian intervention, and to an extent the legal questions of international terrorism; to analyse whether international criminal justice can at all be practiced in the absence of a global balance of power.

I will provide evidence to argue that America’s use of military force to punish, seize, kill, or dismantle Al-Qaeda, the Taliban and the Iraq Government violates the Charter of the United Nations, and to an extent the Geneva Conventions, and key provisions of eleven international agreements dealing with the suppression and control of terrorism.

This will be split into two central arguments, and they are the following:

Defining the term Terrorism – How the U.S. cannot possibly fight an internationally varying concept.

The unjustified invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan under international law, including a range of supporting evidence to contradict the actions of the United States as immoral and illegal.

*Briefly explain back history of 9/11 and U.S. response to the attacks, etc*

Argument 1: Term ‘Terrorism’ (Principle of fairness)

Declaration against Terror:

As the United States prepared to retaliate against Al-Qaeda following the September 11 attacks, George W. Bush addressed the nation in a Joint Session of Congress speech on September 20th - declaring a ‘War on Terror’ and emphatically stating; “Our war on terror begins with al Qaeda, but it does not end there. It will not end until every terrorist group of global reach has been found, stopped and defeated” (The Guardian 2001).

This was a unique turning point in international affairs from a legal standpoint, as the United States was declaring war not against a foreign state, but a war against an ideology or a concept. Numerous critics around the world voiced concern over what this meant, stating that elimination of "international terrorism” is too ambitious, as internationally, the term "terrorism" is imprecise and there is no clear definition for the word. 

In fact, in the widely-acclaimed book ‘Political Terrorism’, Schmidt and Youngman cited 109 different definitions of terrorism, which they obtained in a survey of leading academics in the field of political thesis. From these definitions, the authors isolated recurring elements of violence, force, political fear, terror, threats and organised action as leading causes involved in acts of terror (International Institute for Counter-Terrorism 2009).

The United States domestically defines terrorism as “…the systematic use of violence (terror) as a means of coercion for political purposes.” However, in the international community; terrorism has no legally binding, criminal law definition (Merriam-Webster Incorporated 2013).

Now, ask yourselves these questions before we begin analysis:

How can the United States justify invading a country based on stopping a widely varied concept with no international legal merit?

Can the U.S. be truly objective in defining who and who isn’t a terrorist? Critics would argue that Gulf War, Libya, and actions across the Middle East were also conducted for their own political gain – Terrorism.

Finally, in analysing the principle of fairness, how can the United States solely define and declare war against terrorism without an international agreement on the premise?

Argument 2: Legally Justified?

Nonetheless, the United States had now declared a War on Terror – despite no international legal basis on what that actually meant. Let’s move on and take a look at how the United States approached this from a legal standpoint, and look at the inconsistencies associated with the invasion of Afghanistan in 2001.

At this point, the United States still had a Constitution and United Nations Security Council to account before, despite vowing war against the Afghanistan Government for harbouring suspected Al-Qaeda militants. How does a nation approach an international war against terror and how did the events unfold in 2001?

Firstly, according to international law as codified in the United Nations Charter, disputes are to be brought to the UN Security Council, which alone may authorize the use of force. Without this authorization, any military activity against another country is illegal.

The UN Charter is clear that wars of aggression are prohibited. Article 2(4) states: “All Members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations” (United Nations 1945a).

However, there are some exceptions to this rule as defined in the charter: One is that, if your nation has been subjected to an armed attack by another nation, you may respond militarily in self-defence.

This exception can be found in Article 51 of the Charter, which allows for the possibility of self-defence. Article 51 states: “Nothing in the present Charter shall impair the inherent right of individual or collective self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a Member of the United Nations, until the Security Council has taken measures necessary to maintain international peace and security...” 

However, it also states that “…Measures taken by Members in the exercise of this right of self-defense shall be immediately reported to the Security Council and shall not in any way affect the authority and responsibility of the Security Council under the present Charter…” (United Nations 1945b).

The necessity for self-defense must be "instant, overwhelming, leaving no choice of means, and no moment for deliberation." This classic principle of self-defense in international law has been affirmed by the Nuremberg Tribunal and the U.N. General Assembly (Cohn, M 2008).

It should also be emphasized that this is only valid in the event of “an armed attack” and only “until the Security Council has taken measures necessary to maintain international peace and security.”

If this is the case, let’s break down whether or not the Government of Afghanistan or the suspected al-Qaeda suspects can appropriately be categorised as a means of self-defence under the Article 51 of the United Nations Charter:

Armed attack:

The first aspect of self-defence is the right to retaliate against an armed attack. This is an interesting argument proposed by the United States, because the state of Afghanistan did not attack the United States, rather a criminal organisation known as Al-Qaeda. In fact, 15 of the 19 hijackers came from Saudi Arabia according to USA Today (Associated Press 2002).

To this day, there has been no evidence produced that the state of Afghanistan, at the time, either attacked the United States or authorized or approved such an attack (Griffin, D 2010).

Furthermore, the actions undertaken by Al-Qaeda on September 11th were a crime against humanity, not an Act of War, and should be criminally dealt with under international procedures adherent to the United Nations. As Al-Qaeda are not a foreign state, there is no justification to categorize a criminal organisation as combatants of war, and no further legal grounds to invade a country not responsible for the attacks to find a criminal network under military law.

*Speak on how deserve rights, military law, etc*

United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights is applicable to suspected criminal organisation responsible for the attacks of September 11th under Article 6, Article 7, Article 8, Article 10 and Article 11 – all relating to the universal right to be trialled for criminal activities before an international court of law (United Nations 1948).

This is a key point in analysing the principle of fairness in the 21st century. What gave the United States the right to deny such universal rights as determined by the United Nations to Osama Bin Laden and his organisation?

Security Council:

George W. Bush lobbied to get a resolution authorizing the use of military force against Afghanistan and Al-Qaeda in 2001, and he failed on two separate occasions.

United Nations Resolutions 1368 and 1373 condemned the September 11 attacks and ordered the freezing of assets; the criminalizing of terrorist activity; the prevention of the commission of and support for terrorist attacks; and the taking of necessary steps to prevent the commission of terrorist activity, including the sharing of information (United Nations 2001).

However, such resolutions did not authorise a military strike on Al-Qaeda or the state of Afghanistan. The war in Afghanistan has never been authorized by the United Nations Security Council, and this is the most significant detail when understanding justice and fairness in the 21st century. Is it justice when the U.S. to ignore an international body established to direct diplomatic affairs worldwide?

Author Margherita Giannella concluded in the aftermath that, “…the UN Security Council did not authorize any kind of US military operation on Afghanistan … according to the international law, the war against Afghanistan cannot be considered a just war in self-defence since it was illegal from the outset” (Giannella, M 2013).

Despite this, The U.S. continues to justify their invasion based on the claim of self-defence. In its joint resolution authorizing the use of force, Congress noted that the attacks of September 11 “render it both necessary and appropriate that the United States exercise its rights to self-defense and to protect United States citizens both at home and abroad … to deter and prevent acts of international terrorism against the United States” (Dunlap, C 2013).

After analysing both aspects of justified claims for self-defence, the invasion of Afghanistan was not legitimate under Article 51 of the Charter because the attacks on September 11 were criminal attacks, not "armed attacks" by another state, and the United Nations did not approve a military strike of the state of Afghanistan in both resolutions released.

Furthermore, it should also be noted that the supposed ‘’mastermind’’ behind the attacks was never formally charged with the September 11 attacks prior to the invasion of Afghanistan. Rex Tom, FBI Director of Investigative Publicity, stated in 2006 about the FBI's position:

“The FBI gathers evidence. Once evidence is gathered, it is turned over to the Department of Justice. The Department of Justice then decides whether it has enough evidence to present to a federal grand jury … He [bin Laden] has not been formally indicted and charged in connection with 9/11 because the FBI has no hard evidence connecting bin Laden to 9/11” (International Business Times 2011).

RECAP

No clear international definition of terrorism to declare a war against

United Nations Charter prevents a nation engaging in aggression against another without approval from the Security Council

United States had no legal merit under 51 of the U.N. Charter to claim for self-defence in either an armed attack or without consent from the Security Council

Afghanistan never proven to be connected to the attacks and no justification for Al-Qaeda members to be treated a enemies of war – denying their universal human rights to be treated as innocent until proven guilty

Two United Nations Resolutions did not approve the attack of Afghanistan, rather the seizure of assets until inspectors could analyse the situation

Bin Laden never changed with the attacks due to a lack of evidence connecting him to the crime

Despite this, on September 18, 2001 – just one week following the attacks – the Authorization For Use Of Military Force in Response to the 9/11 Attacks Bill was signed into law by President Bush. *** S 2(a) of the Bill states; “That the President is authorized to use all necessary and appropriate force against those nations, organizations, or persons he determines planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001 … in order to prevent any future acts of international terrorism against the United States by such nations, organizations or persons” (Grimmett, R 2007).

*Speak on how he can determine who is a terrorist, despite what we have learnt at the beginning*

*Introduce Iraq*

Argument 3: Iraq

Following the invasion of Afghanistan hunting for the organisation responsible for the September 11 attacks, the United States also turned their attention to Iraq and the actions of Dictator Saddam Hussein. The United States, among other reasons, claimed that the Iraq regime was developing Weapons of Mass Destruction and were directly linked to supporting and training Al-Qaeda militants. In 2003, the U.S. would also seek United Nations approval to invade Iraq on the premise of self-defence against a pending attack. Let’s analyse this from a legal standpoint – keeping in mind what we have just learned about Afghanistan:

*Same UN Charter principles as Afghanistan apply*

Once again, before the United Nations Security Council, *** Resolution 1441 called on Iraq to disarm its weapons of mass destruction and cooperate with UN inspectors, but did not include an authorization for the use of force against Iraq.

When the US went back to the Security Council for a second and follow-up resolution to 1441, this one to provide authorization to proceed to war against Iraq, the Security Council refused to comply with the US demand for such authorization on the grounds that it wanted to give the UN inspectors more time to finish their work (United Nations 2002).

Rather than awaiting authorization from the Security Council or abiding by the Council’s unwillingness to provide such authorization, the US, under the Bush administration, which had been gradually repositioning its military forces into the Middle East in preparation for war with Iraq, abandoned its quest for UN authorization and proceeded to attack and invade Iraq. ***

The Bush administration sought to justify its illegal actions on the basis of Security Council Resolution 678, a 1990 resolution that authorized “all necessary means” to uphold previous resolutions related to Iraq’s invasion and occupation of Kuwait and to restore peace and security in the area.

*Speak on how Iraq’s invasion followed same illegal principles as Afghanistan, introduce case – Applicable to both war*

Nicaragua v. United States – International Court of Justice on June 27, 1986.

(Source: International Court of Justice 1986).

The present situation in Afghanistan has (correctly) drawn comparisons to the Nicaraguan situation of the mid-1980s. In fact, Thomas McDonnell in his book ‘The United States, International Law, and the Struggle against Terrorism’ states, “the Nicaragua case is the touchstone for much modern analysis of the concept of self-defence” (McDonnell, T 2010).

In 1986, Nicaragua sued the United States, claim that it was liable for the actions of the Contras against the Sandinista government in Nicaragua. Specifically, Nicaragua claimed that “by funding, equipping, supplying, and training the Contras, who then carried out attacks within Nicaragua, the US had illegally used force against Nicaragua and was responsible for all the actions of the Contras.”

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) rejected Nicaragua’s claim that the United States was responsible for the Contras’ actions because “to give rise to legal responsibility of the United States, it would in principle have to be proved that that State had effective control of the military or paramilitary operations in the course of which the alleged violations were committed”

In short, because the United States did not exercise “effective control” over the Contra rebels fighting in Nicaragua, the ICJ held that the actions of those rebels were not attributable to the United States.

More specifically, the ICJ held that “the mere ‘assistance to rebels in the form of provision of weapons or logistical or other support’ was explicitly denied the effect of attributing the responsibility for private operations to a particular state.”

Under that standard, the attack on the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon can hardly be qualified as an armed attack on the part of Afghanistan against the United States. Thus, using effective control as the test, the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan, to kill the Taliban for aiding and harbouring al Qaeda, is not a legal self-defense.

“A strict reading of Nicaragua suggests that under the publically available evidence, the Taliban did not on either 11 September 2001 or on 7 October 2001 ‘effectively control’ al Qaeda.”

As such, though the international community appears to accept that the Taliban was initially in some way responsible for the actions of al Qaeda, it is far from clear that the Taliban “effectively controlled” al Qaeda. There may have been coordination, joint financing efforts, and harbouring, but not necessarily “effective control.”

Furthermore, the U.S. never found weapons of mass destruction in Iraq – as seen by this CNBC article headline. ***

An August 2006 report prepared at the direction of Rep. John Conyers, Jr. found that “members of the Bush Administration misstated, overstated, and manipulated intelligence with regards to linkages between Iraq and Al Qaeda; the acquisition of nuclear weapons by Iraq; the acquisition of aluminium tubes to be used as uranium centrifuges; and the acquisition of uranium from Niger” (GlobalResearch.ca 2013).

RECAP 2

United Nations did not approve the military engagement in Resolution 1441 and were investigating at the time of invasion

Case study from 1986 is applicable to prove that self-defence is not justified – as Afghanistan and Iraq had no direct to Al-Qaeda or the actions of their affiliates

No weapons of mass destruction ever found in Iraq, which would have been found had the U.S. allow United Nations to finish inspection

No connection between Al-Qaeda at all discovered by a CIA investigation

Conclusion: Aftermath/Recommendations/Advice (Improvise)

Therefore, the war had no mandate from the UN Security Council; it was a unilateral and barbaric act of aggression by the US Government. Without a legal backing the invasion was state terrorism dispensed to the innocent civilians of Iraq.

If the US could proceed to war against Afghanistan and Iraq on the basis of a claim of potential future attack, it would open the door to a broad range of assertions of potential future attacks by one country against another that would justify unilateral initiation of warfare, whether or not based on factual foundations, paranoia or simple expediency. It would throw the international order into a state of chaos.

*Explain: as Legal Study students looking to become Lawyers, it is imperative that you see past deception to reveal the truth, etc*

“America's nameless, unreasoning, unjustified fear of terror has caused us to launch immoral wars, slaughter innocent civilians with bombs and drones, impose an undeclared military draft on the poor and people of color, violate civil liberties and human rights, demonize Muslims and Islam, divert precious resources from desperate human needs into weapons of mass destruction, delay for generations the prospects of peace, and, most recently, shamefully refuse to investigate and prosecute any of these crimes against humanity” (Rohde, S 2013).

Bibliograhpy

Associated Press 2002, Official: 15 of 19 Sept. 11 hijackers were Saudi, viewed 16 October 2013, http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/world/2002/02/06/saudi.htm

Cohn, M 2008, Afghanistan: The Other Illegal War, viewed 18 October 2013, http://www.alternet.org/story/93473/afghanistan%3A_the_other_illegal_war

Dunlap, C 2013, International Law and Terrorism, viewed 31 October 2013, http://people.duke.edu/~pfeaver/dunlapterrorism.pdf

Giannella, M 2013, US: did 9/11 attacks provide a moral and legal justification to enter the war against Afghanistan?, viewed 20 October 2013, http://www.academia.edu/2626532/US_did_9_11_attacks_provide_a_moral_and_legal_justification_to_enter_the_war_against_Afghanistan

GlobalResearch.ca 2013, Iraq: A War of Aggression. No WMDs, No Connection to Al Qaeda, viewed 27 October 2013, http://www.globalresearch.ca/iraq-a-war-of-aggression-no-wmds-no-connection-to-al-qaeda/5327548

Griffin, D 2010, Did 9/11 Justify the War in Afghanistan?, viewed 23 October 2013, http://www.globalresearch.ca/did-9-11-justify-the-war-in-afghanistan

Grimmett, R 2007, Authorization For Use Of Military Force in Response to the 9/11 Attacks (P.L. 107-40): Legislative History, viewed 19 October 2013, http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/natsec/RS22357.pdf

International Business Times 2011, Osama Bin Laden never charged for 911 - Inside Job likely, viewed 24 October 2013, http://www.ibtimes.com/osama-bin-laden-never-charged-911-inside-job-likely-210784

International Court of Justice 1986, CASE CONCERNING MILITARY AND PARAMILITARY ACTIVITIES IN AND AGAINST NICARAGUA, viewed 25 October 2013, http://www.icj-cij.org/docket/files/70/6503.pdf

International Institute for Counter-Terrorism 2009, Is One Man’s Terrorist Another Man’s Freedom Fighter?, viewed 19 October 2013, http://www.ict.org.il/ResearchPublications/tabid/64/Articlsid/432/Default.aspx

McDonnell, T 2010, The United States, International Law, and the Struggle against Terrorism, viewed 24 October 2013, http://books.google.com.au/books?id=0oEySEZc3yYC&pg=PA261&lpg=PA261&dq=%E2%80%9Cthe+Nicaragua+case+is+the+touchstone+for+much+modern+analysis+of+the+concept+of+self-defense.%E2%80%9D&source=bl&ots=FtJnQ48Z4R&sig=u2ruEdRpI295uQEztehizDp9ifM&hl=en&sa=X&ei=yth2UomUK8m6kgXTnICYDw&ved=0CCkQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%E2%80%9Cthe%20Nicaragua%20case%20is%20the%20touchstone%20for%20much%20modern%20analysis%20of%20the%20concept%20of%20self-defense.%E2%80%9D&f=false

Merriam-Webster Incorporated 2013, terrorism, viewed 29 October 2013, http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terrorism

Rohde, S 2013, More to Fear Than Fear Itself: The War on Terror's War on Human Rights, viewed 29 October 2013, http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/14955-more-to-fear-than-fear-itself-the-war-on-terrors-war-on-human-rights

The Guardian 2001, Text of George Bush’s Speech, viewed 22 October, http://www.theguardian.com/world/2001/sep/21/september11.usa13

United Nations 1945a, CHAPTER I: PURPOSES AND PRINCIPLES, viewed 20 October 2013, http://www.un.org/en/documents/charter/chapter1.shtml

United Nations 1945b, CHAPTER VII: ACTION WITH RESPECT TO THREATS TO THE PEACE, BREACHES OF THE PEACE, AND ACTS OF AGGRESSION, viewed 21 October 2013, http://www.un.org/en/documents/charter/chapter7.shtml

United Nations 1948, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, viewed 30 October 2013, http://www.un.org/en/documents/udhr/

United Nations 2001, Resolution 1383 (2001), viewed 24 October 2013, http://daccess-dds-ny.un.org/doc/UNDOC/GEN/N01/681/09/PDF/N0168109.pdf?OpenElement

United Nations 2002, Resolution 1441 (2002), viewed 26 October 2013, http://www.un.org/depts/unmovic/documents/1441.pdf

[afreelanceadventure]

Another project of mine. Still debating with the inner-depths of my soul whether to release this or not. I have a publisher that can make this in to a physical paperback and distribute it too. Hmm.