Chicago Sun-Times: Waiting for NWO arrival finally over

When the announcement was first made by WWF owner Vince McMahon that the New World Order was on its way to the WWF, fans and insiders immediately began to speculate on when Hulk Hogan, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash would make their returns.

Originally the thought was they would be at the first "Raw" of the new year at Madison Square Garden. Then many said they would appear at the "Royal Rumble" or the night after, or the Thursday after. But no, no, no, no. In fact, the WWF kept teasing fans every Monday and Thursday with clever advertising and hints, but never did the men in black and white appear.

But now the guessing is over as the NWO has been confirmed for this weekend's "No Way Out" PPV and should play a big role in all the title matches. I certainly expect some interference in the world title match between Chris Jericho and Steve Austin, causing Austin to lose his shot at the belt and set up a match with one of the newcomers at "WrestleMania." Also, The Rock is destined to come face- to-face with the NWO and set himself up with an interesting feud as well.

The one man I can see reaping the benefits of the arrival is HHH, who has quite a past with Hall and Nash and could be turning on the WWF and its fans come tonight. Also remember, Hogan still has some unfinished business with Ric Flair, and these two could butt heads in the coming weeks.

AROUND THE RING: I would expect Chris Jericho to begin seeing Stephanie McMahon in a new light in the weeks leading up to "WrestleMania." The two, who have been at odds since Jericho's federation debut, should begin to bond while Steph guest referees the world title match at "No Way Out." . . . The WWF will begin running two shows a night starting March 25. That week the WWF will hold eight shows in four nights in Pennsylvania, Florida and New Jersey. Could it be a sign of the federation splitting into two separate organizations? . . . Next Saturday may be New Jack's last match ever as he takes on Vic Grimes in a four-story scaffold match. Doctors have strongly suggested that the former ECW tag champion retire.

HOTLINE: Vince McMahon already has gone behind the NWO's back and has contacted Bill Goldberg and The Ultimate Warrior. I have the details on the hotline: (900) 454-SLAM ($2 per minute).