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#1 · (Edited)


NEWS

WWE PAY PER VIEWS

The planned October 3 PPV ‘Hell in a Cell’ has been renamed by the new WWE management who are not fans of the ‘gimmick’ PPV concepts. The PPV will go ahead as planned but will be renamed ‘No Mercy’ instead. It is likely to feature Sheamus’ WWE Title rematch with the newly crowned champion, Randy Orton.

There are also some other changes to the PPV schedule.

October 3, 2010: No Mercy
(was ‘Hell in a Cell’ which has now been scrapped)

October 24, 2010: Cyber Sunday
(was ‘Bragging Rights’ which has now been rescheduled)

November 21, 2010: Survivor Series

December 19, 2010: Vengeance
(was ‘TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs’ which has now been scrapped)

January 30, 2011: Royal Rumble

February 27, 2011: No Way Out

April 3, 2011: WrestleMania 27

May 1, 2011: Backlash
(was ‘Extreme Rules’ which has now been scrapped)

May 22, 2011: WWE Draft Night – Bragging Rights
(was ‘Over the Limit’ which has now been scrapped)

June 19, 2011: King of the Ring
(was ‘Fatal 4-Way’ which has now been scrapped)

July 17, 2011: Money In The Bank

August 14, 2011: Summerslam

September 18, 2011: Night of Champions

NXT SEASON 2 ROOKIES – FUTURES RESOLVED

With the NXT Season 2 winner, Kaval, starting his WWE career on SMACKDOWN recently, many people have been speculating over the future of the other NXT Season 2 rookies. Alex Riley has been rewarded with a RAW contract which allows him to remain with his NXT Season 2 Pro, The Miz.

Michael McGillicutty, Lucky Cannon, Eli Cottonwood and Titus O’Neil have all been deemed surplus to future requirements in the WWE and are free to talk to other companies. The WWE wishes them well in their future endeavours.

Percy Watson and Husky Harris have caught the eye of WWE management and have been awarded short-term contracts with SMACKDOWN that give them further chance to impress in the coming weeks.

THE FUTURE OF NXT, THE SHOW

NXT Season 3 has been postponed after poor reaction to the opening shows of the season. The new WWE management believe that NXT is a good concept but it needs a break between seasons to remain fresh. Watch out for the return of NXT in the future.

ROSTER CHANGES BETWEEN RAW AND SMACKDOWN

The new management are also keen to make a few changes to the rosters of RAW and SMACKDOWN over the coming months in preparation for the ‘Road to WrestleMania’ in the New Year. There are likely to be a few drafts between RAW and SMACKDOWN to shake things up a little and keep the brands fresh.

The first confirmed trades see two RAW superstars heading for SMACKDOWN this Friday night. The tag team of Mark Henry and Evan Bourne competed in Sunday’s Tag Team Turmoil match where they lost the final fall to the new Tag Team champions, Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. They will now get their opportunity to seek revenge as the two RAW men head for the blue brand in time for Friday.

WWE Divas Gail Kim and Jillian are also heading for SMACKDOWN this week.

GENERAL MANAGER TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON

Rumours suggest that the new RAW General Manager will be announced in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to find out who it is!

ROSTERS



WWE CHAMPION
Randy Orton

US CHAMPION
Daniel Bryan

’MONEY IN THE BANK’ CONTRACT HOLDER
The Miz

Sheamus
John Cena
Edge
Chris Jericho

NEXUS
Wade Barrett, David Otunga, Skip Sheffield, Justin Gabriel, Heath Slater, Michael Tarver

Darren Young
Alex Riley
John Morrison
R-Truth
Vladimir Kozlov
Santino Marella
Ezekiel Jackson
William Regal
Goldust
Jimmy Uso
Jay Uso
The Great Khali
David Hart Smith
Tyson Kidd
Ted DiBiase
Yoshi Tatsu
Zack Ryder
Primo

CURRENTLY OUT INJURED
Triple H

DIVAS
Alicia Fox, Brie Bella, Nikki Bella, Eve Torres, Maryse, Melina, Natalya, Tamina

OTHERS
General Manager: ????
Commentators: Michael Cole with Jerry Lawler
Interviewer: Josh Matthews
Announcer: Justin Roberts
PLUS: Ranjin Singh



WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION
Kane

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION
Dolph Ziggler (lost at Cyber Sunday)
Alberto Del Rio

UNIFIED DIVAS CHAMPION
Layla

WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS
‘Dashing’ Cody Rhodes & Drew McIntyre

The Undertaker
Big Show
CM Punk
Jack Swagger
Rey Mysterio
Alberto Del Rio
Christian
Kofi Kingston
Matt Hardy
MVP
Chavo Guerrero
Chris Masters
Caylen Croft
Trent Barretta
Curt Hawkins
Vance Archer
JTG
Finlay
Shad
Kaval
Mark Henry
Evan Bourne
Husky Harris
Percy Watson
Joey Mercury
Luke Gallows
Tyler Reks
Hornswoggle

DIVAS
Beth Phoenix, Kelly Kelly, Layla, Gail Kim, Jillian, Rosa Mendes, Tiffany

OTHERS
General Manager: Teddy Long
Commentators: Todd Grisham with Matt Striker
Interviewer: Josh Matthews
Announcer: Tony Chimel
PLUS: Vickie Guerrero, Jim Ross, Ricardo Rodriguez​
 
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#105 ·
Royal Rumble Predictions

For the WWE Championship, Wade Barrett (c) vs Triple H, I see Wade Barrett retaining because of Nexus being at ringside

And for the World Heavyweight Championship, CM Punk (c) vs Christian, I see CM Punk retaining

As for who wins the NXT Royal Rumble for immunity, I see it being Drew McIntyre

Ladder Match Daniel Bryan vs Ted DiBiase, I see Daniel Bryan winning setting up Bryan/Gabriel again

Tag Team Turmoil for the WWE Unified Tag Team Championships, my pick to win is The British Empire

Royal Rumble Match itself, probably the most star studded in history, as for who wins, I see it being Jeff Hardy or my main man Randy Orton or Christian somehow or even Kurt Angle
 
#106 ·
January 23rd, 2011: Royal Rumble

Credit to JAM for the Royal Rumble logo. Thanks, man!


SUNDAY JANUARY 23RD, 2011 | QUICKEN LOANS ARENA, CLEVELAND, OHIO | Att: 15684
THEME:
“Living in a Dream” by Finger Eleven (LINK)

*** OPENING VIDEO ***

We start in a dark room with just a TV screen providing any light. The screen is showing static as if a video is playing but there is nothing recorded on it. From the light of the screen, we can see the silhouette of a chair with somebody sat in it but the camera is behind it. The camera switches to show the screen closer as the static disappears and a grainy shot of Vince McMahon at the very first WrestleMania comes into focus ...

VINCE McMAHON
Welcome everyone ... to WrestleMania!

We now see that sat in the chair is Randy Orton ...

RANDY ORTON
70 days ...

Orton’s face switches quickly into the face of Kofi Kingston who is sat in the same room in the same chair ...

KOFI KINGSTON
70 days ...

The camera switches again into the face of Big Show ...

BIG SHOW
70 days and counting ...

Another switch, this time to Kurt Angle ...

KURT ANGLE
70 days until your Olympic Hero returns to WrestleMania!

The camera returns to the TV screen which now shows The Rock hitting the Rock Bottom to Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania 18 ...

???
At WrestleMania ...

The speaker is revealed to be John Cena who is watching the TV now ...

JOHN CENA
... the ‘greatest WWE superstars of all time’ ... prove that they are ... the greatest ... of all time ...

The TV screen now shows Rey Mysterio winning his first ever World Championship at WrestleMania 22 when he beat Kurt Angle and Randy Orton ...

REY MYSTERIO
Dreams can come true at WrestleMania!

Rey’s masked face comes into sharp focus and he smiles ...

REY MYSTERIO
But you have to win the Royal Rumble first!

The video now shows Mysterio eliminating Randy Orton in the 2006 Royal Rumble ...

MICHAEL COLE
He did it! He did it! Rey Mysterio did it!

‘Living in a Dream’ by Finger Eleven begins its instrumental introduction in the background as several WWE stars – past and present - make comment about the Royal Rumble ...

EDGE
The Royal Rumble ...

JOHN MORRISON
30 men in the ring all fighting for one chance!

MICK FOLEY
One opportunity to be the man on the biggest stage!

EDGE
I won it last year ...

THE ROCK
For a shot at immortality ...

STONE COLD STEVE AUSTIN
One of the highlights of my entire career!

EDGE
And I’m gonna’ win it again!

We now see some great moments from the Royal Rumble’s history starting with the 1999 Royal Rumble when Vince McMahon eliminated Austin to win ...

MICK FOLEY
The fact is that anything can happen in the Royal Rumble match!

MICHAEL COLE
Wait a minute! No! Nooo! Mr. McMahon has won the Royal Rumble match!

We see Vince’s arm raised high by Shane and his associates ...

SHANE McMAHON
You’re going to WrestleMania, baby!

A shot of the 2000 Royal Rumble is now shown ...

JIM ROSS
Oh, the Big Show’s over! The Rock has won the Rumble!

A smiling Rock is shown as he speaks ...

THE ROCK
Headlining WrestleMania – it’s what every WWE superstar dreams about!

Royal Rumble 1992 is shown as Hulk Hogan assists Ric Flair in eliminating Psycho Sid to win the Rumble and the WWE Championship before we see Flair in an interview after ...

RIC FLAIR
This is the greatest moment in my life!

Shawn Michaels is watching Flair’s interview and he nods his head in agreement ...

SHAWN MICHAELS
I won it twice ... and there is no other feeling to beat it. Knowing that you’re going to WrestleMania ...

1996 is shown with HBK celebrating ...

VINCE McMAHON
Shawn Michaels is going to WrestleMania!

Camera switches back to HBK ...

SHAWN MICHAELS
... Wow! Amazing!

We switch back to a shot of Rey Mysterio sat in the chair ...

REY MYSTERIO
Winning the Rumble was a dream come true for me ...

Camera switches to Christian ...

CHRISTIAN
You don’t even have to be in the Rumble match for dreams to come true, Rey ...

Shots of Christian and CM Punk’s battles over the previous few weeks are shown ...

CHRISTIAN
My dream comes true tonight!

CM Punk appears on screen and he snorts in disgust at Christian’s comment, he clearly thinks it will be a nightmare for Christian ... We switch to Royal Rumble 1994 with Bret Hart and Lex Luger battling and trading punches ...

TRIPLE H
The Rumble can be full of controversy ...

Bret and Luger’s feet touch the floor at the same time and we see both men with their hands raised before Wade Barrett comes into shot wearing a Nexus t-shirt ...

WADE BARRETT
The Nexus ...

The other members of Nexus appear besides Barrett ...

WADE BARRETT
... are no strangers to controversy!

Into shot comes Miz who has an arrogant but confident look on his face ...

THE MIZ
I have home field advantage in Cleveland, Ohio ...

Shots of Miz handing out beatings to Kofi Kingston, Randy Orton, Matt Hardy and John Morrison recently are shown ...

THE MIZ
... as well as the momentum. This Royal Rumble ... will be ... AWESOME!

Miz smirks as he says his catchphrase before Stone Cold Steve Austin appears on screen with a smile on his face as he watches his 2001 winning move when he eliminated Kane ...

JIM ROSS
It’s over! It’s over! Stone Cold! Stone Cold! Stone Cold!

Shots of Austin celebrating his third Rumble win are shown ...

STONE COLD STEVE AUSTIN
I won it three times! It’s 30 men but only one winner ... A shot at the WrestleMania main event, a shot at the title ... It doesn’t get any bigger than that ...

Quickly, lots of Rumble moments are shown: Triple H eliminating Angle in 2002; Cena’s return in 2008; Yokozuna throwing Macho Man out from the floor in 1993; Brock Lesnar eliminating Undertaker in 2003 ...

STONE COLD STEVE AUSTIN
Oh hell yeah!

*** CLOSE VIDEO ***



The first PPV of 2011 is set to begin as the cameras spin around the arena as the pyro explodes and the crowd here in Cleveland, Ohio, go wild for the start of the Road to WrestleMania. ‘Living in a Dream’ by Finger Eleven blasts out around the arena and the crowd hold up signs declaring their support for their favourite stars: MIZ IS AWESOME, CENA FEARS ORTON and BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! are three of the featured signs as the PPV gets underway before the cameras settle on the announce team of Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler, the usual RAW team, tonight for one of the most important PPV’s of the year!



JIM ROSS
Welcome everyone to the Quicken Loans Arena here in Cleveland, Ohio, what a night it is going to be here, the first pay-per-view of the year and we officially begin the ‘Road to WrestleMania 27’ here tonight – who will seal their spot in the main event of WrestleMania tonight, King?

JERRY LAWLER
Well, JR, that remains to be seen but I love the Royal Rumble match, it’s my favourite match of the entire year and what a way to start the road to the biggest event of the year!

JIM ROSS
We are just seventy nights away from WrestleMania 27 and tonight is the night where things begin to heat up every year here in the WWE – which superstars will begin their quest for WrestleMania glory tonight? We’ve also got several title matches where the champions will be determined to hold onto their gold until WrestleMania as well!

JERRY LAWLER
You know what, JR? I don’t think I can contain the excitement much longer! Wade Barrett and Triple H for the WWE Championship, Christian and CM Punk for the World Championship, the Royal Rumble match – let’s just get this started shall we?

It appears that the WWE are thinking the same and the camera focuses in on the ring where Justin Roberts, the RAW ring announcer, is stood waiting ...

JUSTIN ROBERTS
The following contest is a Ladder Match ... and it will determine the Number 1 contender for Justin Gabriel’s United States Championship!

Cheers from the WWE Universe – although this feud has been a little quiet over the past week, both men are desperate for another shot at the US Championship and a Ladder Match is always an incredible way to start any event. The cameras show us a range of ladders around the ring as Roberts informs us of the rules ...

JUSTIN ROBERTS
Now in this match, the aim is to take a ladder, set it up in the ring and climb it to retrieve the contract hanging up above the ring ...

The cameras show a clipboard hanging down from the roof with a WWE contract on it – a contract for a shot at the US Championship.

JUSTIN ROBERTS
The man who retrieves this contract will be declared the winner and will face Justin Gabriel in a United States Championship match in the near future.

There is excitement in the air as Roberts finishes his announcements and all eyes now turn towards the stage area and the arrival of the first of the participants ...

*** RIDE OF THE VALKYRIES ***

Aberdeen, Washington
210 pounds
*** DANIEL BRYAN ***


Out of the backstage area heads Daniel Bryan and he is dressed in burgundy trunks and a burgundy t-shirt, TAP OR SNAP emblazoned across it, as he sidesteps his way to the ring pointing to the WWE Universe who appear to be backing him this evening. He steps into the ring and climbs to the middle ropes to salute the rest of the WWE Universe in attendance and he receives a good ovation from the Cleveland crowd.

JIM ROSS
Here is a man who – back at Vengeance – lost his United States Championship to Justin Gabriel despite not being pinned himself. Due to the rules of the Triple Threat, Gabriel’s roll up of Ted DiBiase was enough to earn the South African the title ...

A replay of the closing stages of the Triple Threat at Vengeance is shown and we see Bryan kick out of Dream Street before being tossed out of the ring by DiBiase. Gabriel sneaks up behind DiBiase and rolls him up for the 3-count before we see him celebrating with the title and Bryan looking disappointed. The cameras return to the ring and we see Bryan looking disappointed still as he watches the replays but he nods his head determinedly , he is ready to take the first step to regaining his title tonight.

JERRY LAWLER
That’s the rules of a Triple Threat I’m afraid, Daniel Bryan was never pinned but he has to accept that he lost the title. He has a great chance though tonight to earn a rematch, one on one, with Gabriel and then prove that he should never have lost the title in the first place!

*** I COME FROM MONEY ***

West Palm Beach, Florida
214 pounds
*** TED DIBIASE ***


With the Million Dollar Title belt over his shoulder, a title never defended and just for show, the son of the Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase heads to the ring looking chiselled and ready to go for a recognised WWE championship tonight. Ted heads for the ring looking supremely confident and he motions to his amazing physique and taunts the crowd in the aisle as he makes his way closer to the ring. Once in the ring, DiBiase steps up to the middle ropes and he shows off some more to mild heat as the crowd are going to back Bryan tonight for sure.

JERRY LAWLER
It looks like Cleveland are intent on cheering for Daniel Bryan tonight, what a match to begin!

JIM ROSS
There have been so many great Ladder matches over the years, King: Jericho, Shawn Michaels, Razor Ramon, the famous TLC matches – this one could be up there with the very best. Both these men are suited to this match in my opinion!

JERRY LAWLER
It’s going to have the WWE Universe on the edges of their seats!

JIM ROSS
And King, the WWE Universe and ourselves are not the only interested spectators tonight ...

The cameras switch backstage and show that the US Champion, Justin Gabriel, is stood in front of a TV screen and is ready to watch his two potential challengers slug it out tonight in a match that can easily take its toll on the body.

JIM ROSS
The young South African Justin Gabriel is getting ready for the Royal Rumble later tonight but he is going to take a few moments to watch this match and see who he will be facing in the near future ...

JERRY LAWLER
That’s a wise move from the champion, JR, always scout your opponent. You should never assume that you know everything about them even if you’ve faced them a hundred times before!

Daniel Bryan and Ted DiBiase stand opposite each other in the centre of the ring and DiBiase talks some trash about winning the US Championship to Bryan who looks at him as if to say ‘Oh yeah? Prove it!’ The referee backs them away into their opposite corners and then signals for the bell and the match – and the PPV - can get underway.

LADDER MATCH – TO DETERMINE NUMBER 1 CONTENDER FOR US CHAMPIONSHIP
DANIEL BRYAN vs. TED DIBIASE

The two men come together in the centre of the ring and both men look up to the clipboard and contract hanging over the ring, their prize for tonight, a chance to challenge for Justin Gabriel’s US Championship in the future. They tie up and grapple in the centre of the ring, DiBiase is the one who makes the break though, a kick to the gut of Bryan to break it. DiBiase launches a right hand at Bryan and connects but the former US Champion responds with a vicious kick to the side of the hip and follows it up with two more well placed shots to the ribcage. DiBiase stumbles and tries to get away but Bryan continues to kick the thighs and ribcage area of DiBiase who covers up and eventually manages to shove Bryan away. Bryan uses the ropes and comes off them at a run towards DiBiase who is ready for him, lifts him high, spinebuster! Bryan lands hard on his back and – just for a moment – DiBiase holds on for the pin before realising that he needs to get the contract down to win the match tonight. He rolls Bryan away and looks over towards the ladder set up at the end of ramp, he rushes towards the ropes and out of the ring whilst Bryan recovers from the spinebuster. Closing the ladder up, DiBiase heads towards the ring, he wants the ladder in the ring as soon as possible here. However, Bryan sees him coming and comes off the ropes again before hitting a dropkick to the ladder as DiBiase places it on the edge of the mat. The dropkick causes a huge collision and DiBiase is sent down to the floor, the ladder falling down as well and landing near his feet. Quick as a flash, Bryan climbs to the top rope, balances and waits for DiBiase to stand before jumping off towards his opponent and hitting flying knees to the face of the Fortunate Son. Bryan lands with a knee either side of DiBiase’s head and rolls through and away from him as DiBiase crashes down hard on the floor. The crowd cheer as Bryan backs up with a focused look of determination in his eyes, he has made the better start here.

Grabbing the fallen ladder, Bryan decides he is ready to make a move for contract and he slides the ladder part of the way under the bottom rope, the legs of the ladder into the ring first. However, whilst his attention is on the ladder, he misses a recovering DiBiase getting up and he catches D-Bry with a dropkick to the back. Coupled with the impact of the ladder end in his gut, Bryan drops to his knees and the ladder balances for a moment on the edge of the apron before dropping back to the floor. As Bryan is on his knees, DiBiase grabs his head and looks around for a moment before hitting a DDT that crashes him down face first onto the floor with a thud. The crowd groan but DiBiase is not for being swerved by their reactions and he drags a prone Bryan up and runs him into the barricades shoulder first – Bryan collapses to the floor in pain and this appears to be the first real chance for either man. He begins to load the ladder into the ring but he then notices that Bryan is getting up and catches him with a clothesline that knocks him back down. DiBiase looks down on Bryan and decides he needs to do more. Leaping onto the apron, DiBiase climbs to the top of the turnbuckles and he waits before hitting a diving clothesline to Bryan that crashes both men down to the barely cushioned floor, Bryan taking the bigger of the brunt as he lands first. Will that be enough for DiBiase to make an attempt at getting the contract or will he look to finish Bryan first?

He opts for the latter and he drags Bryan, clearly in pain, back to his feet. He sets himself behind Bryan and then looks to lock in the Million Dollar Dream, the move made famous by his father, the legendary Million Dollar Man. However, as he looks to transfer from the Dream to Dreamstreet, Bryan rolls and counters out of the hold, the submission expertise of Bryan coming to his rescue there. DiBiase spins, confused for a moment, Bryan rushes over and dropkicks him again sending DiBiase crashing back and shoulder first into the announce table. Both men are down and are already struggling as the match takes its toll early. Bryan looks to be feeling fresher of the two and he stalks DiBiase as he tries to escape by crawling towards the timekeeper area. Bryan catches his opponent by the foot and tries to drag him back but DiBiase kicks out and catches Bryan to create a break. Taking a moment to recover, Bryan spins back round and heads towards Ted but the break gave him a chance ... BAM! Chair shot to the gut of Daniel Bryan! As Bryan doubles over in pain at the ring steps, DiBiase gets to his feet and then BAM! Chair shot to the back of Bryan as well! A grin spreads to the face of Ted as he tosses the chair away and then he rolls Bryan back into the ring – surely he’d be better leaving him outside it?

As DiBiase rolls in after D-Bry, it becomes clear what is on his mind. He grabs the ladder and drags it into the ring as Bryan recovers a little and staggers up to the corner of the ring propping himself up on the ropes. DiBiase gets the ladder in his hands where he wants it and then rushes over at Bryan and jams the top rung of the ladder into the gut of the former US Champion which causes him to double up in pain. As Bryan sinks to his knees, DiBiase drops the ladder down in the centre of the ring and waits for Daniel to get back up ... Bryan swings at him as he makes an attempt to gain some momentum, DiBiase ducks and then scoops up his opponent and slams him down hard onto the steel ladder which rattles as Bryan lands on it. The crowd gasp as Bryan’s body is punished and they urge him to make a recovery as he writhes in pain. DiBiase laughs and drags Bryan up from the ladder before running him to the ropes and tossing him over the top to the outside where Bryan lands with a thud. If it was the Rumble later tonight, he’d be out! However, this is a ladder match, the clipboard and contract for a future US Championship match is swinging a little above the ring and DiBiase drags up the ladder. He positions it below the contract and ensures it is sturdy before starting to climb. Ted looks a little unsure on the ladder but starts to reach up for the clipboard, he is about to touch it when Bryan gets back into the ring and shoves the ladder over ... DiBiase is caught high up the ladder and as he falls towards the ropes, he puts a foot out, misses the top rope and ends up straddling it instead! The men in the audience wince as they feel DiBiase’s pain and he tumbles down to the mat clutching his crown jewels in pain. Bryan senses a weakness, a chance for revenge and he begins to use his ‘educated’ feet to kick at the fallen body of DiBiase before turning his attention towards the ladder. He rams DiBiase’s head into the ladder while it is lying on the floor before setting it up in the corner, perching it against the top buckle so it is almost vertical. He retreats and waits for DiBiase to stumble to his feet before running over and hitting a perfect drop kick to the chest of Ted and sending him crashing backwards into the ladder which he collides with with a crash. Bryan appears to have the edge now and he places the ladder on the mat again before grabbing Ted by the head and snap suplexing him onto the ladder – revenge for the American Dragon!

As DiBiase struggles on the mat, the pain etched on his face, Bryan heads outside with a plan forming. He grabs the chair that DiBiase used earlier and he heads back into the ring intent on causing some damage here. He stands over DiBiase with the chair in his hand and surveys him before calculating that strikes to the legs of his opponent are a good idea. Down the chair goes, over and over, crashing into the thigh muscles, knees and ankles of DiBiase – sound strategy, injure the legs and stop him climbing! With the crowd cheering him on, Bryan finishes with one last big shot to the knees of Ted before throwing the chair out of the ring with a smirk. With the ladder still laid on the floor, Bryan drags DiBiase up and whips him to the ropes, goes for a Back Body Drop that would see DiBiase crash down on the ladder ... DiBiase counters, thank goodness for him, and then responds with a drop kick that buys him a little time and space to recover. Quickly, Bryan looks to go back for DiBiase but he is caught with a kick to the gut and a quick DDT that crashes his head – and DiBiase’s back – onto the ladder ... Both men are down here and struggling.

It is Ted DiBiase who gets to his feet first, he sets up the ladder and starts to climb again. However, the difference this time is obvious – his legs are in pain from the chair shots that Bryan unleashed on him. A slow climb, there is no doubt about what is going to happen, Bryan is going to catch him – but can he stop him? Bryan reaches up and catches the leg of DiBiase before he gets close and pulls him down from the fourth rung. Quick as a flash, Bryan reaches round his waist and hits a perfectly executed German Suplex that crashes DiBiase’s head and shoulders down onto the mat. With DiBiase down, Bryan watches him roll to the ropes and then runs at him to hit a low dropkick that sends him out of the ring and down to the floor. Can Daniel Bryan now take advantage and make it up the ladder? Retrieving the ladder that wobbled onto its side against the ropes when he dragged DiBiase down, Bryan sets the ladder up and starts to embark it, his first time on the ladder tonight. Bryan gets closer and closer, he reaches out and touches the clipboard just as DiBiase drags himself onto the apron, the crowd sense Daniel has got the match won! DiBiase’s eyes widen in fear, he desperately goes through the ropes and rushes to the ladder ... which he drop kicks hard, the ladder wobbles furiously and then falls taking Bryan with it – no contract in his hand. Bryan lands awkwardly on the ropes and then tumbles through and DiBiase – a look of desperation on his face here – sets the ladder again. DiBiase begins the climb but he is not quick enough, here comes Daniel Bryan again!

Bryan climbs up behind DiBiase and halts his progress, the two of them are trying to force each other off the ladder and a bit of a slugfest begins. DiBiase gets the better of it, he locks in the Million Dollar Dream to Bryan whilst they are on the ladder and looks to go for Dream Street but Bryan manages to slither out of it and he uses an arm drag to take DiBiase and himself off the ladder and down to the mat again. As DiBiase swings for him on the mat, Bryan ducks and hits a backdrop suplex on the mat that buys him time to begin another negotiation of the ladder and the start of his route to the US Championship. However, he is only halfway up the ladder when DiBiase denies him again and the two of them are slugging it out on the rungs again, not as far up this time, punches are being thrown and Bryan, with the rung advantage, uses his feet well to kick DiBiase in the ribs and knock him off the ladder. Unfortunately, Bryan slips a little and drops to the mat as well but he is able to watch as DiBiase tries to roll out of the ring for a breather ... Instead, Bryan drags the ladder down and lays it down on the mat before forcing DiBiase between the two halves of the ladder. As the crowd anticipate something big, Bryan climbs to the top rope and he balances looking down on the ladder sandwiching DiBiase’s body. He leaps off the ropes, double foot stomp onto the ladder! Wow! Bryan twists his ankle a little on impact but DiBiase is in real pain now, agony is all over his face as he slowly gets out from between the ladder and rolls under the rope for his own protection. Or does he? Bryan sees him, runs to the ropes ... Suicide Dive from Daniel Bryan ...

... Misses! DiBiase saw him coming at the last second and moved out of the way! Bryan collides heavily with the barricades and his head and shoulders take the brunt of the collision. Both men are down, DiBiase was struggling already and moving only bought him time to recover, not time to win! However, it is DiBiase who gets to his feet first and he sees Bryan in pain. Dragging him vertical, Ted takes a deep breath, he is in pain when he breathes it seems. He runs Bryan with his hand on the back of his neck and smashes the former US Champion into the ring steps which clatter and fall apart from the impact, Bryan almost runs through them. Another time, DiBiase this time rams Bryan hard into the announce table, his back taking the majority of the impact this time. As Bryan is laid face down on the floor, a semblance of a smile passes across the pained face of DiBiase as a crowd chant of ‘Dan-iel-Bry-an!’ goes up, the crowd are willing him to get up but it isn’t looking good here. DiBiase climbs through the ropes as Bryan struggles to get up outside, he sets up the ladder but slowly due to the agony he is in from the match so far. Slowly, clutching his ribs, DiBiase climbs the ladder, one rung at a time ... He gets to the third rung and desperately reaches up for the clipboard. Ambitious, no chance from there, Ted! Another step up and he is within centimetres of the contract, can he do it? Here comes Daniel Bryan, Ted sees him and stretches as he gets up one more rung. He touches the clipboard and twirls it around as it hangs down. This is going to be close! DiBiase steps up one more rung and manages to get hold of the clipboard, he reaches up to unhook it but has to abort the attempt for a moment as his ribs pain him once more. A deep breath, another stretch, here we go, Ted DiBiase is going to win ...

Nooooo!

Daniel Bryan gets there just in time and just does enough to prevent DiBiase reaching up and taking down the contract for the title shot. As DiBiase stumbles, he steps down the ladder and this gives Bryan a chance, he drags DiBiase down off the ladder and down to the mat ... LE BELL LOCK! DANIEL BRYAN LOCKS IN THE LE BELL LOCK! DiBiase is tapping out, he wants the hold to be released but there is no submission tonight of course. Bryan continues to hold in the submission lock, he refuses to release DiBiase however much he taps the mat. Eventually, he releases DiBiase who rolls away clutching his shoulder ... Bryan rolls away and takes time to recover from the pain he has been – and still is – enduring. Taking a deep breath, Bryan stands and heads for the ladder – this is his big chance now! He starts the long, arduous climb and – like DiBiase before – he is making slow progress. Bryan manages to get his hand on the contract but not enough to be able to tug it down, he needs to move another rung up to unhook it. He forces his feet to move again, here he goes ...

DiBiase drags him down at the last second!

Just in time, Ted DiBiase prolongs the match a little more! With Bryan on the third rung, DiBiase steps up alongside him and locks in the Million Dollar Dream again, halfway up the ladder. Bryan tries to fight out and the pair of them wobble on the rung but DiBiase keeps their balance and twists into position ... DREAM STREET! DREAM STREET OFF THE LADDER! Bryan’s back crashes down and he writhes in agony, what a huge impact move that was! The crowd are half cheering due to the intensity of the move and the way it surprised them. They resume their cheering for Daniel Bryan moments later though as DiBiase starts the climb towards the contract. He pulls himself up as Bryan is down on the mat struggling for and gasping for air as he finds breathing difficult after the impact of the Dream Street. Bryan spots DiBiase as he is reaching up, he starts to make his way up the ladder too but can he make it in time? Has he left it too late?


Can DiBiase get the contract this time?
– YES HE CAN! –


WINNER
TED DIBIASE (12:56)

DiBiase stands astride the top of the ladder clutching the contract to his chest and balancing himself on the ladder with his other hand – he smiles a wide, beaming smile and then looks down at Daniel Bryan who is groggily resting halfway up the ladder where he was when the contract was unhooked. Bryan, groggy from the Dream Street off the ladder, looks disappointed but rolls away from the ladder, no sour grapes from him here, he was beaten fair and square. As Bryan backs away down the aisle, he looks back up to the top of the ladder at DiBiase and there is – for a split second at least – a sign of respect in both men’s eyes. DiBiase slightly spoils it though when he then laughs at Bryan and holds the contract up before pointing to himself and signalling that he will soon be the US Champion.

The camera switches to Justin Gabriel who has been watching on a TV screen and he is warming up and stretching ahead of the Rumble. However, he nods his head at the TV, he now knows who his next challenger for the US Championship will be: Ted DiBiase.


JIM ROSS
We’ll have to wait and see if there is an announcement on RAW tomorrow night, King, about when the US Championship match will be. However, we do now know: Ted DiBiase vs. Justin Gabriel will happen in the near future!

JERRY LAWLER
JR, that’ll be a great contest but I can’t help feeling that it would be even better with Daniel Bryan involved. What a great start to the night, a superb ladder match with an amazing ending!

A replay of the Dream Street is shown and King goes ‘Wow!’ in amazement at the impact of the move – Bryan’s back and shoulders slammed down onto the mat with a huge crash ...

JIM ROSS
A huge move from Ted DiBiase, is he about to begin to realise his unlimited potential and make his way up the ranks here on RAW?

JERRY LAWLER
If he carries on with impressive moves and wins like that, I can’t see why he wouldn’t, JR!

The camera switches backstage where Josh Mathews is stood ready for an interview. He smiles to the camera and then begins ...

JOSH MATHEWS
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time ... the former Divas Champion ... LAYLA!



The beautiful Layla steps into view with a smile on her face, she is dressed in jeans and a sexy top as she prepares to answer Mathews’ questions.

JOSH MATHEWS
Layla, last week on NXT, you had your rematch with Maryse for the Divas Championship but there was some interruption from your former Laycool partner, Michelle McCool, and her bodyguard, Kharma. Your thoughts?

LAYLA
Josh, ‘Chelle is just jealous of me, she has been since I beat her at Survivor Series and proved that I was the better Diva in Laycool. I don’t know why she has decided to get that ... that thing ... to protect her nowadays, Kharma, what is that? It’s obvious to me that Michelle is scared of me, she fears that she wouldn’t be able to beat me for the Divas Championship so she decided to ...

Layla is suddenly interrupted mid-thought by the Divas Champion herself, the sultry Maryse ...



MARYSE
De quoi parlez-vous, Layla? Vous avez perdu votre esprit?

Layla looks confused as Maryse addresses her in French ...

MARYSE
Il est clair pour moi que Michelle sait que je suis un danger pour elle. C'est pourquoi elle est intervenu dans notre match mardi dernier.

Maryse points to herself as she speaks, she is obviously speaking about herself ...

MARYSE
Elle veut me mettre hors d'action afin qu'elle puisse prendre mes Divas championnat sans en face de moi dans l'anneau.

Maryse adjusts her Divas Championship belt which she has around her waist and then she smiles at Layla.

MARYSE
You see, Layla ... Nobody really cares about you, ‘zay do not see you as a threat to ‘zem. On ‘ze other ‘and, Michelle knows ‘zat I am ‘er biggest threat. But I is ready for ‘er ‘ze next time she ...

Whatever Maryse was about to say, she never gets chance to finish as Kharma barrels into the Divas Champion and knocks her flying into the steel interview set face first. As Maryse hits the set, it topples over and lands on her as Kharma kneels over her and pummels away at her. Layla decides to do something about it and she attempts to drag Kharma away from Maryse but the gargantuan monster simply shoves Layla aside and down onto her backside. Layla gets back up and is about to try again when she is blindsided by a running boot from Michelle McCool.



Michelle now grabs Layla and smashes the back of her head down onto the floor over and over and over again, a heinous attack here from McCool and Kharma. WWE officials attempt to stop it but there is little they can do at first as Michelle and Kharma are relentless in their efforts to severely injure the pair. Eventually, Kharma and McCool are dragged off Maryse and Layla and WWE medics can get to them to check their condition. Michelle has a smirk on her face as she straightens her hair back out whilst Kharma stands beside her with a ferocious look on her face, she fumes that she has been stopped here. Stretchers are being called for as McCool picks up the fallen Divas Championship belt and she leans over the doctors to symbolically place the title belt back over Maryse’s fallen body before backing away with Kharma ...

JR and King look shocked as the cameras return to them at ringside ...


JIM ROSS
What a heinous attack there from Michelle McCool and Kharma, what was that about?

JERRY LAWLER
Absolutely no need for that, what a cowardly attack!

Replays of the attack are shown as JR and King speculate over why they decided to do that. The cameras return to the backstage area and we now see that Maryse and Layla are both being placed on stretchers and carried out of the interview area towards waiting ambulances. The WWE officials and medics are all busy as they tend to Maryse or Layla or rebuild the set which was damaged by the attack. The cameras return to ringside again and JR and King look sombrely into the camera ...

JIM ROSS
I guess you never quite know what is going to happen next here in the WWE, King?

JERRY LAWLER
What a mood kill that is. A huge night of action here at the Royal Rumble, a fast-paced start with DiBiase and Daniel Bryan and then Kharma and Michelle McCool do that. There was no need for it, JR, no need at all.

*** IF YA SMELL WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN’ ***

NXT Legend Mentor
*** THE ROCK ***


The roof comes off for the arrival of the legendary Rock as he heads for the ring with his chest puffed out and looking a million dollars as usual. He heads for the ring and smells the air in the corner as usual before grabbing a microphone and getting ready to address the crowd ...

THE ROCK
Finally ... The Rock ... has come back ... to Cleveland!

Cheap pop for the Rock but he smiles widely ...

THE ROCK
Now The Rock says this, tonight is not about the Rock, no, no, no, The Rock has spoken to each one of his four men competing on NXT, he has given them the advice that made him the People’s Champion, the tips and tricks that made him the most electrifying man in ALL of entertainment ...

Another pop for the Rock as he uses up one of his legendary catchphrases ...

THE ROCK
Tonight, the four members of Team Bring It each have a chance to come out here ... and layeth the smack down on Team JBL’s candy asses ...

Another cheer for Rock ...

THE ROCK
Tonight, they have the chance ... in front of the millions ...

The Cleveland crowd join in and shout ‘AND MILLIONS’ ...

THE ROCK
... of The Rock’s fans, they have the chance to compete here in the NXT Battle Royal, they have the chance to earn immunity from the first two eliminations, tonight, Team Bring It will wipe the floor with Team JBL ... IF YA SMELLLLLLLLLL ... LALALALALALALALLLLL ... WHAT THE ROCK ... IS ... COOKIN ...

The crowd join in with Rock as he finishes his quick introduction of his team, Team Bring It, and they begin to make their way out from the locker room ...

*** IF I CAN GET THRU’ THIS ***



TONY CHIMEL
The following contest is the NXT Battle Royal ... The winner of this match will be immune from elimination from NXT for the first two eliminations. Introducing first, members of Team Bring It ... CHAVO GUERRERO ... accompanied by Vickie Guerrero, DOLPH ZIGGLER ... accompanied by Runjin Singh, THE GREAT KHALI ... and finally, R-TRUTH!

As each member of Team Bring It arrives in the ring, The Rock makes a point of shaking their hands and he utters a few words of encouragement to each member of his team. He then brings his team together and gives them a team-talk, he appears to want them to work together a little to eliminate Team JBL. However, there is a sullen look on the face of R-Truth and Dolph Ziggler reacts negatively as well as he questions Rock about his ideas ...

???
Very impressive, Rock, very impressive!


NXT Legend Mentor
*** JBL ***


Loud jeers echo around the arena as JBL steps out into the stage area and he is ready to speak his mind ...

JBL
Rock, a fine speech if ever I heard one, the problem is ... I don’t think your guys were interested. You see, let me explain ... Great Khali, well he doesn’t understand a word you say ... R-Truth heard you clearly but he doesn’t respect anything you have to say to him ... Dolph Ziggler is openly questioning you, I mean, this is the mentor who suggested that he dumped Vickie Guerrero ...

Cheers for this idea, it appears the Rock knows what the people want ...

JBL
... and as for Chavo Guerrero, he’s respects what you say, he’s just not good enough to do anything about it.

Chavo reacts angrily and makes to exit the ring and confront JBL but Rock holds him back and convinces him that it is not worth it ...

JBL
Listen to your mentor, Chavo, you don’t want to come near me ... I am a Wrestling Gawd!

Boos for JBL and he smirks with laughter as he prepares to introduce his team ...

JBL
Now, it is time for me to introduce Team JBL ... Three men who will outlast all other, three men who will destroy the rest of the competition and then battle it out between themselves for the prize of NXT winner. Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome Team JBL!

Loud boos for JBL again but he doesn’t care – his team, including the fourth member who he isn’t mentioning, begin to head out towards the ring ...

*** IF I CAN GET THRU’ THIS ***



TONY CHIMEL
Their opponents, representing Team JBL ... DREW McINTYRE ... KAVAL ...

JBL shakes his head in anger that Kaval has been introduced as a member of Team JBL. As Kaval follows Drew out towards the ring, he stops close to JBL and stares at him, there is real tension brewing between them – will Kaval snap and go after his so-called mentor?

TONY CHIMEL
... Montel Vontavius Porter – MVP ... and finally, the Moscow Mauler, VLADIMIR KOZLOV!

As Team JBL hit the ring, they join the Team Bring It members and finally we have all eight NXT participants in the ring ready for action. The eight of them spread themselves around the ring as Rock makes his way out of the ring to ringside and JBL gets the courage up to join him – despite staying on the opposite side of the ring.

NXT BATTLE ROYAL
CHAVO GUERRERO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. DREW McINTYRE vs. GREAT KHALI vs. KAVAL vs. MVP vs. R-TRUTH vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV

With their mentors watching on the outside, the eight men prepare – some jumping on their feet, others stretching, some people stood there still – waiting for the bell to be rung. The referee signals for the bell and all eight men come alive as they advance towards their fellow NXT competitors. Team JBL make a strange move though as their mentor points towards Kaval in the corner of the ring – McIntyre and Kozlov immediately head towards him and trap him in the corner where they begin to lay the boots and right hands to him despite his attempts to fight back. MVP watches on reluctant to join in and JBL stares at him, daring him not to help. As Team JBL have their own issues, Team Rock decide to fight with each other too – after all, it is not a team game tonight, this is about every man for himself. Chavo Guerrero pairs off with R-Truth, Dolph Ziggler has got guts as he goes after Great Khali instead. With seven of the eight men now involved, there is only MVP yet to make a move as he continues to watch the fight between McIntyre and Kozlov and the so called ‘runt’ of NXT, Kaval. JBL points to MVP and orders him to help and he realises that he has little choice here if he doesn’t want to be next to be turned on. MVP heads over towards the corner where Kaval is taking a beating but as he looks to help, Kaval shoves Drew McIntyre away and he collides with the oncoming MVP. A fight breaks out between those two to JBL’s dismay and this pairs all eight men up as Kaval looks to fight back against Kozlov. Eventually, Kaval is able to use his speed advantage as he ducks a shot from Kozlov and then catches him with a dropkick in the corner that buys him time to recover a little.

Kaval leaves Kozlov to it and goes in search of other people to fight with – Dolph Ziggler wanders into his path as he gets no luck out of Khali and the pair of them lock up and go at it. R-Truth is now fighting with Drew McIntyre, Chavo with MVP and this leaves the two big men, Kozlov and Khali, the top two in the current NXT rankings to come face to face in the centre of the ring. Kozlov attempts to pick up and suplex the Punjab but this is nigh on impossible and Khali manages to hit the Khali Chop to the top of the Russian’s head that sends him staggering away. Truth is on top in his battle with McIntyre right now though and he hits his corkscrew forearm that knocks the Scot down to the mat before coming off the ropes and hitting a Scissors Kick as Drew gets back up. The crowd cheer for Truth as he takes a moment to stare at Rock on the outside of the ring before he drags McIntyre up and heads him towards the ropes. Truth struggles but he manages to tip Drew over the top rope, he tries to lift his legs but the Scotsman is now struggling against him – can he do it? Wait a minute, JBL has jumped up on the apron here! Truth is distracted for a second as JBL taunts him a little before the referees pull JBL off the apron to the floor ... BAM! Big Boot from Drew McIntyre to R-Truth, he goes down like bag of potatoes and is now looking like easy pickings. Rock is unhappy on the outside and he attempts to come round to confront JBL but he is also held back by the referees as Drew picks up Truth and tosses him over the top ropes and out of the NXT Battle Royal.


R-TRUTH HAS BEEN ELIMINATED BY DREW McINTYRE!

As Truth hits the mat, JBL has a huge smirk on his face and he laughs at Rock who is being forced back to the opposite side of the ring. The referee in charge speaks to Rock and threatens to have him removed from the ringside area if he does not comply with his instructions. Reluctantly, Rock moves back to his corner and continues to watch although he looks really annoyed over JBL’s actions in causing R-Truth’s elimination. Meanwhile, in the ring, McIntyre now has Kaval and is beating him in the corner. JBL again orders MVP to support Drew and yet again MVP looks tortured by the order but knows he has to obey it. MVP and Drew McIntyre beat on Kaval in the corner until Chavo Guerrero comes over and gets involved by taking on McIntyre. This leaves Kaval and MVP – will MVP continue his assault on a man he appears to have a liking for? MVP looks to JBL who orders him to ‘destroy the little runt!’ and he looks to be fighting demons in his own head. However, the hesitation is enough for Kaval who realises that MVP is not going to have a choice. He starts to kick MVP in the gut and then follows up with a huge hurricanrana to take down the Franchise Playa. Scurrying to the top rope, Kaval quickly balances – he clearly knows the danger of being up there in a Battle Royal. WARRIORS WAY DOUBLE FOOT STOMP FROM KAVAL TO MVP! Landing hard on the ribs and sternum of MVP, Kaval shrugs his shoulders as if to say he had to do it. With MVP down, Kaval springboards from the middle rope into a moonsault as he begins to show off his impressive arsenal of moves. MVP staggers to the corner and Kaval stands back a little preparing for something big ... He handsprings towards MVP and then flies into a vicious kick to the side of MVP’s head that sends MVP over the top rope and hanging on desperately. Kaval grabs his legs and helps him on his way with a shove ...

MVP HAS BEEN ELIMINATED BY KAVAL!

A disappointed looking MVP looks up at Kaval who holds his hands out as if to tell MVP it was either him or himself and he had to do it. MVP looks annoyed for a moment but then his focus falls on JBL who is sarcastically applauding him. MVP argues with JBL but the Texan orders him to get out of the arena and MVP makes his way to the aisle. Kaval smirks at JBL and turns ... PUNJABI PLUNGE! KAVAL CRASHES INTO THE MAT HARD! A double hand choke drop from the Punjab and JBL appears impressed by the man who he campaigned to get rid of at the beginning of NXT. He urges Khali to eliminate Kaval but Khali misunderstands and he beckons JBL into the ring instead and this gives Kaval chance to roll away. With his back turned, Ziggler and McIntyre attack the giant from behind and begin to try and force him over the ropes – teaming might be the only way to take out the man from India here tonight! Kozlov joins them but he is struggling still after the Khali Chop before and he is elbowed in the face by Khali as he tries to fight back which sends him down on his back. Chavo senses an opportunity and he climbs to the top rope and shakes himself ‘Guerrero’ style in honour of his Uncle Eddie before attempting the Frog Splash ... Misses! The crowd groan as Kozlov moves but an ‘Eddie! Eddie!’ chant goes up anyway. Kozlov isn’t happy with Chavo though and he whips him into the ropes before catching him with a huge battering ram headbutt that knocks him down. Locking Chavo in his arms, more headbutts follow, this time to the chest, before Kozlov suplexes Chavo hard onto the mat with a crash. Kozlov thinks about something for a moment and then makes a decision – he heads for the top rope! He climbs slowly but gets to the top rope when Chavo suddenly manages to come to his senses a little. He makes a dive for the top rope and this causes Kozlov to topple and land a leg either side of the buckle and ropes and wincing in pain. Guerrero beats Kozlov over and over in the head, this could be the chance! He hits a step up enzuguri to the side of Kozlov’s head and it staggers the big man so that he is almost toppled off the buckle and out of the ring. However, he hangs on and Chavo mounts the ropes to try and knock him down with right hands. Over and over Chavo punches to Kozlov but he refuses to budge ... A shove to the chest of Chavo sends him sailing backwards and he crashes down on his back in the ring. Kozlov takes a moment to recover and then climbs off the buckle, both feet on the apron and he goes to re-enter the ring through the ropes ...

WAIT A MINUTE!



Santino Marella grabs Kozlov’s foot as he tries to go back into the ring, Kozlov spins the wrong way looking for who is stopping him ... Santino sneaks up onto the apron behind him ... COBRA! KOZLOV FALLS DOWN AND TO THE FLOOR!


VLADIMIR KOZLOV HAS BEEN ELIMINATED BY CHAVO GUERRERO / SANTINO MARELLA!

JBL is beside himself with rage as his star man has been eliminated from the Battle Royal here. He rushes round to check on the Russian as Santino – a huge smile on his face – dances back down the aisle. He stops underneath the titantron and waves to a furious looking Kozlov who gets up and goes marching after him. JBL turns and looks to Rock who is peering over and is laughing out loud, JBL curses and stomps off to his corner again to focus on Drew McIntyre as he attempts to secure immunity for two NXT eliminations. Kaval is down in the corner of the ring, still groggy from the Punjabi Plunge earlier as the other four men in the ring pause for a moment and take stock. Khali and Chavo look over to McIntyre who is listening to advice from JBL and they appear to be on the same page here. They look to Ziggler who realises what they want and he appears to be going with it. A look of terror appears on the face of the Sinister Scotsman as he realises that he is in big trouble now and he backs away to the corner as Khali, Ziggler and Chavo advance on him. Khali gets there first and slaps the chest of McIntyre hard, it reverberates around the arena. Chavo then uses some knife edge chops to McIntyre before Ziggler hits a drop kick to the Scot as his Battle Royal looks as if it is coming to an end. JBL is screaming to the referees about the triple team but they ignore him, the Battle Royal says nothing in its rules about triple teaming being illegal. Rock applauds his team but just as it seems a rosy garden, Ziggler decides to act selfishly and he drags Chavo away when he is least expecting it ... ZIG ZAG! ZIGGLER WITH THE ZIG ZAG TO CHAVO! Vickie Guerrero is hanging about near the announce table and she screams with delight as Ziggler looks proud of himself and looks down on the prone Chavo as he is down on the mat. As Ziggler’s cocky attitude shows, he doesn’t notice what is behind him. Khali is sneaking up on him and appears to be none too impressed with Ziggler’s lack of team spirit ... VICE GRIP! VICE GRIP APPLIED TO ZIGGLER! Dolph is screaming in pain as Khali squeezes the sides of his head and Ziggler tries to get to the ropes to cause a break. He manages it but there is no break – rope breaks do not happen in the Battle Royal either. As Ziggler’s energy levels begin to fade, Khali knows he has him beat and roughly throws him over the top rope as Vickie screams ...

DOLPH ZIGGLER HAS BEEN ELIMINATED BY GREAT KHALI!

Dolph’s elimination causes Rock to shake his head, he appears to be losing patience with the man who refuses to get rid of Vickie Guerrero and this latest act will have done him no favours with his mentor or his team mates. Khali stands close to the ropes, he is looking down on Ziggler as if to tell him that he made a stupid, stupid decision ... BIG BOOT! McINTYRE CATCHES KHALI WITH AN UNEXPECTED BIG BOOT! Khali’s balance is taken out and he staggers over the ropes forwards, he is in trouble here ... McIntyre realises that he has a great chance here and quickly goes through the ropes, grabs the huge arm of the Punjabi Playboy and pulls as hard as he can ...

GREAT KHALI HAS BEEN ELIMINATED BY DREW McINTYRE!

As Khali lands with a thud on the floor, JBL celebrates wildly before getting quickly out of the way of an angry Khali as he gets to his feet. Drew McIntyre has made himself scarce too and is back in the ring, we are now down to three men – McIntyre, Kaval and Chavo – but Khali doesn’t appear to be finished. He goes to get back in the ring but the referees try to stop him. In the end, a combination of Runjin Singh and Rock manage to talk him down off the apron before he can get himself into further trouble with the people who run NXT, Khali is still angry but stalks off towards the backstage area to leave the match ongoing without him. With just the three men left, we now appear to be heading for an unexpected winner with both the favourites, Khali and Kozlov, eliminated. The three of them go at it and their mentors cheer them on – well, except for Kaval of course – with the crowd behind Chavo and Kaval. The strength of the Sinister Scotsman pays dividends though as he gets on top and he manages to isolate Chavo when Kaval is knocked out of the ring – through the ropes though. With Chavo groggy and tiring, Drew takes his chance and looks for the finisher but Chavo counters it! Back Suplex from the Mexican! Drew crashes down on his back and shoulders and then stumbles to his feet as Chavo prepares for another attack ... he locks in for the suplex, here we go! THREE AMIGOS DELIVERED BY CHAVO GUERRERO! The crowd are going wild and another huge ‘Eddie! Eddie!’ chant goes up, his nephew Chavo appears to be channelling the spirit of Eddie as he attempts to win the Battle Royal and NXT! Chavo heads for the top rope, he is going to go for the Frog Splash now! However, JBL jumps up on the apron ... He grabs the foot of Chavo and stops him, the delay is costly as McIntyre is able to catch him up top and he hits a huge Back Suplex off the top ropes that folds up Guerrero like an accordion. Rock is pissed off now and he rushes after JBL but this isn’t going to help in the ring ... FUTURE SHOCK DDT! DREW McINTYRE HITS THE FUTURE SHOCK DDT TO CHAVO! This is over, folks! Drew drags Chavo up and tosses him with ease over the top rope ...

CHAVO GUERRERO HAS BEEN ELIMINATED BY DREW McINTYRE!

Loud boos in the arena as Chavo is eliminated thanks to JBL. However, Rock has his sights on JBL now and there is going to be no stopping him! He chases after JBL who tries to go through the ring to get away ... As JBL passes through, McIntyre attempts to stop Rock but he is hit with a spinebuster as he approaches the Great One. If this was a match for Rock, he would hit the People’s Elbow but he is intent on going after JBL instead. He continues after him and then JBL’s progress is halted ... by Kaval! ROUNDHOUSE KICK TO JBL FROM KAVAL! JBL is hurt and he staggers into the ring still trying to escape Rock but the writing is on the wall now ... Rock is setting himself in the ring despite the protestations of the referees ...

ROCK BOTTOM!

The Rock smashes JBL down hard into the mat and takes in the adulation of the crowd who have exploded here! Ushered out by the referees, Rock, who has no men left in the ring, exits and heads down the aisle to a rapturous reception from the WWE Universe. He turns to look back and Drew McIntyre is back up and looking out towards him with a look of concern on his face! McIntyre looks to JBL, then back to Rock, what has happened? The referees help out JBL and McIntyre is concerned for his mentor and assists them without taking a look around him ... He turns around, BAM! Springboard roundhouse kick to McIntyre from Kaval! The match is continuing and, in the confusion, McIntyre has forgotten about the presence of Kaval in the ring. Quickly, Kaval runs up and jumps to the top rope before diving off ... Crossbody to Drew McIntyre as well! Can Kaval do the impossible here and earn an immunity from the first two NXT eliminations? With Drew down, Kaval climbs to the top buckle again and here he goes! Warrior’s Way Double Foot Stomp coming up! Kaval jumps off the ropes and goes for it but McIntyre escapes at the last second, Kaval hits the mat and rolls his ankle a little which causes him to clutch it in pain for a second. He gets back up but he is locked up by McIntyre ... Time for the Future Shock DDT again! McIntyre has it set up ... FUTURE SHOCK DDT ... NOOOOOOO! Kaval reverses, hurricanrana take down ...

DREW McINTYRE IS TAKEN UP AND OVER THE TOP ROPE TO THE FLOOR!


DREW McINTYRE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED BY KAVAL!

WINNER
KAVAL (11:17)

JBL is in shock in the aisle as he staggers to his feet after witnessing the elimination of Drew McIntyre – what a terrible night it has been for him! First off, he is hit with a Rock Bottom and now the member of his team who he wants to see eliminated, the so called ‘runt’ of his team, Kaval, has won the NXT Battle Royale and will be immune from the first two eliminations in the competition!

JIM ROSS
The underdog Kaval picks up a huge win here!

JBL has his head in his hands as he looks up at Kaval as he celebrates in the ring and taunts JBL from the turnbuckles. Back in the stage area, The Rock looks on with a look of satisfaction on his face – if he couldn’t have a member of Team Bring It be successful, it seems Kaval would be his next choice. Drew McIntyre tries to help JBL to his feet but the businessman refuses to be lifted and he slams his fist down hard over and over on the floor in frustration at what has happened!

JERRY LAWLER
Look at JBL’s face, JR, what a picture that is!

JIM ROSS
They say that a picture paints a thousand words, King. In JBL’s case, we know that none of those words are happy words right now ... Kaval is immune from elimination for the first two eliminations on NXT!

The cameras switch from a visibly furious JBL to the backstage area where Josh Mathews is stood waiting in the interview area once again. It has been tidied up although there are still signs of the earlier disturbance around and Mathews looks serious as the camera heads to him ...

JOSH MATHEWS
Ladies and Gentlemen, I can confirm to you that both the Divas Champion Maryse and the former Divas Champion Layla have been taken away in an ambulance to a local medical facility here in Cleveland. Layla has a suspected concussion caused by Michelle McCool repeatedly slamming her head first into the floor whereas Maryse has pain in her ribcage area, possibly broken ribs, caused by Kharma. WWE owner Chip Butty informed me moments ago that action will be taken against Michelle McCool and Kharma in due course.

Mathews pauses before moving on to his next interview ...

JOSH MATHEWS
As the old saying goes though, the show must go on so would you please welcome my guest at this time, the Olympic Hero ... KURT ANGLE!



A mixed reception for Angle as he comes into shot – his deliberate defeat in Monday Night RAW’s main event that cost Triple H the chance to remove Nexus from the arena tonight has not been forgotten.

JOSH MATHEWS
Kurt, on Monday on RAW, you cost Triple H the chance to ...

Angle snatches the microphone from Mathews and prevents him from completing the question; it appears Angle wants to speak about the topics of his own choosing ...

KURT ANGLE
Let’s get a few things straight, ‘announcer’ ...

Mathews looks slightly insulted by the sarcastic way that Angle calls him ‘announcer’ and Kurt smirks at him as if daring him to make something of it ...

KURT ANGLE
... you do not speak to an Olympic Hero in that way. Don’t you know that I won the gold medal for the United States of America in 1996 with a broken freaking neck?

Angle looks at Mathews quizzically and then lifts his medal up from his chest ...

KURT ANGLE
When you have these babies around your neck, you don’t need to earn respect ... you demand it from everybody that you meet. From now on, if I allow you to interview me again, you will address me as Mr. Angle and you will not ask me ridiculous questions like you were planning to ask me then, do I make myself clear?

Mathews nods his head sheepishly and then Kurt waves his hand at him and shoos him away so that he can focus on the camera and the WWE Universe watching him ...

KURT ANGLE
Many of you people will be thinking – Why did Kurt Angle screw Triple H last Monday? It’s quite simple. Triple H showed me a lack of respect. Who does Triple H think he is? Does he think I need him to patronise me and give me another chance at the WWE Championship?

Boos and jeers are beginning to build for Angle who it appears is returning to his old, cocky arrogant ways from his previous WWE runs rather than his returning Olympic hero phase that he has been running with since returning to the WWE two months ago.

KURT ANGLE
Now I don’t give a crap whether Triple H wins the WWE Championship tonight or if Wade Barrett wins the WWE Championship tonight. All I know is that I am determined that I will be challenging for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 27 and tonight, I guarantee my spot in that main event.

Angle again lifts his medals to the camera ...

KURT ANGLE
WrestleMania this year comes from Atlanta, Georgia, the place where I won the Olympic gold medal. It is my destiny to return there this year and show that I am the best freaking wrestler in the world once again, I will win the Royal Rumble tonight and head to WrestleMania where I will defeat Wade Barrett, Triple H or anybody else who wants to get in my path. At WrestleMania, just like in Atlanta in 1996, Kurt Angle, your Olympic Hero, proves that he is the best in the world ... Oh, it’s true! IT’S DAMN TRUE!

Angle tosses the microphone away and stands there staring into the camera, a look of intensity in his eyes as the camera switches back to the arena and ringside ...

JIM ROSS
What an intense statement there from Kurt Angle, King!

JERRY LAWLER
Of course it was intense, JR, that’s one of Kurt Angle’s three I’s – intensity, integrity and intelligence! Don’t you remember them?

JIM ROSS
Intensity maybe, King, but I’m not sure how much integrity and intelligence Kurt Angle showed on Monday night when he attacked Triple H. Nevertheless, Angle is in the Rumble and he seems to be pumped up and determined to win and earn a WrestleMania main event spot tonight.

The cameras focus on the ring where Justin Roberts is stood waiting ...

JUSTIN ROBERTS
The following contest is set for one fall ... and it is for ... the WWE CHAMPIONSHIP!

Big pop from the crowd, they are ready for the first of two big title matches tonight ...

*** WE ARE ONE ***

Manchester, England
246 pounds
WWE Champion
*** WADE BARRETT ***




Accompanied by his Nexus team-mates, Wade Barrett saunters slowly out into the arena and a cauldron of hate, jeers and boos – it doesn’t affect him at all though and he openly smirks and laughs in the faces of the WWE Universe as he approaches the ring. Beside him, flanked two either side, are David Otunga, Heath Slater and Skip Sheffield and the five of them make their way into the ring as Barrett removes the WWE Championship belt from around his waist and holds it high for all to see ...

JIM ROSS
Well, King, tonight Wade Barrett faces a tough test of his credentials as WWE Champion – but he faces the test with his four main men beside him after Monday’s main event ...

Replays of Kurt Angle’s attack on Triple H on RAW are re-shown and the Nexus’ hands being raised as they celebrated the fact that Nexus would be allowed at ringside tonight when Barrett defended his title ...

JERRY LAWLER
This man, our WWE Champion, should take a look in the mirror and consider what he’s actually doing right now, JR. If Wade Barrett is truly honest with himself, he’ll surely realise that he needs to prove himself alone and leave these four idiots back in the locker room so he can do just that!

JIM ROSS
There are many, many people in the WWE Universe who think that way, King, many say that Wade Barrett would not be the WWE Champion if not for the Nexus and I have to agree with them. There is no doubt about it, Barrett is a superb athlete and has stacks of potential, he could be a huge star in the WWE but right now, he isn’t impressing anybody.

Barrett and Nexus stand in a line and taunt the WWE Universe as they ‘salute’ them with the Nexus salute. The four members of Nexus not in the match exit on different sides of the ring and take up their positions on each side of the ring. This already looks like an impossible task for Triple H as he embarks on his quest for a fourteenth world title ...

*** TIME TO PLAY THE GAME ***

Greenwich, Connecticut
255 pounds
*** TRIPLE H ***


Green flashing lights permeate through the darkness as the crowd here in Cleveland go wild for the challenger for the WWE Championship. A spotlight falls on the Game as he stands in the stage area and looks out towards the ring before he begins pacing towards it, a determined look on his face ...

JIM ROSS
Triple H, the Cerebral Assassin, a man who doesn’t care how he gets the job done but, King, tonight, does he have too many obstacles to overcome – thanks to Kurt Angle?

JERRY LAWLER
Well, JR, we just heard from Kurt about his actions last Monday, he claims that the Game disrespected him when he allowed him a second chance to earn a place in this match tonight. I don’t know how he comes to that conclusion but his actions on Monday certainly mean that Hunter is against it tonight – all four members of Nexus are out here to support Wade Barrett!

JIM ROSS
Nexus are like a pack of wild dogs, King, if they sense a chance to gang up on Triple H, they’ll do it. And don’t forget, Wade Barrett has the title advantage which means ...

JERRY LAWLER
Exactly, JR! It means that he can’t lose the title if he gets disqualified tonight!

Triple H looks to both sides of the ring as he surveys the position of Nexus before he climbs up onto the ring apron, throwing away his water bottle, and looks out towards the crowd. Big mistake from Triple H! Wade Barrett decides to rush over the ring and he smashes into the back of the challenger who goes flying off the apron and crashes head and shoulder first into the barricades. The lights come up and the referee races over to back Barrett back away into the corner ... as the Nexus team attacks Triple H on the outside of the ring. Kicks are aimed at the chest and back of Triple H as he is savagely attacked before Nexus make themselves scarce as the referee turns around to see what is happening. He leaves the ring to check on Triple H and – of course – Nexus have moved away and are nowhere near HHH. Hunter struggles to get to his feet on the outside as the referee checks on him and asks him if he wants to continue with the match or not.

JIM ROSS
Unfortunately, King, tactics we have become used to from the Nexus ...

JERRY LAWLER
A totally unprovoked attack, JR! But what can the referee do about it?

Triple H is groggily getting to his feet but he assures the referee that he is ready to go, ready to compete for the WWE Championship tonight. The referee continues to check but the Game is stubborn and he begins to climb into the ring. As he does, Barrett strips off his Nexus t-shirt quickly and tosses it out of the ring along with his WWE Championship belt. As soon as Triple H enters the ring, Barrett attacks him and hits a Big Boot to Hunter as he steps through the ropes. With both men in the ring, the referee ushers Barrett back as the English WWE Champion steps back with a huge smile on his face. A groggy Triple H again assures the referee that he wants to start and he wearily makes it to his feet and allows the referee to signal for the bell so the title match begins ...

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
WADE BARRETT (c) (w/Nexus) vs. TRIPLE H

The referee tries to hold Barrett back at first but he can’t and the WWE Champion goes straight for the weakened challenger as he holds himself up on the ropes. A well placed right hand from Barrett staggers Triple H and he falls to his knees again, Barrett continues to assault with punches that take Hunter down to the mat and he continues to deliver these as he seeks an early and successful title defence. The referee finally manages to split the pair of them but Barrett is not going to stand back and he begins to deliver a number of stomp kicks to the fallen challenger, the threat of disqualification falling on deaf ears as JR reminds us that a DQ will result in retention of the title for Barrett. As Triple H covers up a little, Barrett stands back and admires his handy work as Heath Slater leads the applause on the outside – this causes Jerry Lawler to rant on the commentary about Nexus’ involvement here and he blames Kurt Angle once more for his betrayal last Monday. As Hunter rolls to the centre of the ring and tries to get to his feet again, Barrett sneaks up behind him and places his knees in the back of the 13-time champion before locking in a Surfboard Stretch. With Triple H on his knees and the knees of the WWE Champion lodged in his back, the pain is etched all over his face as he battles to escape. Things are not looking good for Hunter here as he tries desperately to break the hold by reaching the ropes. Can he make it?

Triple H struggles but he finally manages to release his legs and, in a seated position, he is able squirm towards the ropes. He locks a foot around the bottom rope and the referee demands that Barrett releases the stretch but this order is ignored – another reminder that a DQ win for Triple H is pointless tonight. After Barrett’s ignorance, the referee decides to physically break the hold and he manages it to the annoyance of Barrett. However, he refuses to dwell on it and he simply drags Triple H up to his feet before lifting him up and crashing him backwards with a back suplex. First cover of the match, maybe Triple H should just allow the defeat to happen right now?

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Kick out from Triple H! –


Barrett steps up and looks down on Triple H with a smirk – the failure of the pinfall attempt does not appear to concern him at all. He looks to his Nexus colleagues who cheer him on before he drags Hunter back up and looks him in the face with a mocking statement or two for good measure. Barrett lifts Triple H onto his shoulders and it becomes clear, he is looking to end it right now! With Triple H held up on his shoulders, Barrett is going for Wastelands! However, Triple H realises that he is in serious danger here and he manages to fight out, wriggles clear and drops down behind Barrett. Caught out, Barrett spins round and HHH reacts quickly – kick to the gut from the Cerebral Assassin, snap DDT! Barrett’s head bounces off the mat and Triple H takes a second to recover a little before looking to hook the leg of the WWE Champion. However, Heath Slater and David Otunga jump up on the apron here and Triple H is distracted for a moment as he spots the Nexus pair. The referee jumps towards them and demands they get down immediately but the distraction was enough for now. HHH drags Barrett up, pops him off into the ropes and lifts him high, looking for a spinebuster ... however, Barrett shoves himself clear just in time and catches the challenger with a right hand to the disappointment of the WWE Universe who appear fully behind the challenger, Triple H. Further punches follow but HHH responds with weak looking right hands of his own before he ducks underneath one of Barrett’s and hits the ropes himself ... SIDEWALK SLAM FROM BARRETT! A huge crash as Triple H’s back and shoulders slam down hard on the mat, the ring shakes before Barrett hooks the leg and makes the cover ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– HHH kicks out again! –


Barrett shakes his head, he believes that the challenger should give it up. He allows Triple H to stagger to his feet and he props himself up in the corner, Wade approaches him and mounts the ropes to deliver yet more right hands that sting the face of the challenger. Barrett is mocking the WWE Universe as they jeer him and he delivers each punch to Hunter as if he is personally punching the WWE Universe in the face instead. He drops back off the middle ropes and allows Triple H to slump on the ropes, Barrett is laughing now, he believes he cannot lose this match now! Triple H looks up at him, anger in his eyes and he goes on the attack but Barrett is ready and he back body drops HHH over his head and he crashes down once more. Barrett saunters over and goes for a lateral press cover, he is looking more arrogant every minutes that passes ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Kick out from Hunter late this time! –


Barrett puffs out his cheeks as he reflects on what is needed. He locks in an Abdominal Stretch on the challenger and HHH grimaces in pain as he is stretched out around the WWE Champion who looks calm and composed with no worries. The crowd begin to clap their hands, particularly annoying Heath Slater for some reason, and they begin to chant ‘Trip-le H!’ over and over as they support their favourite. Hunter begins to attempt to fight back and fight out of the hold, he manages to reverse it and locks Barrett into the Abdominal Stretch instead. Barrett powers over to the ropes immediately and clutches one of them, the referee has to order the break. Triple H holds it as long as he dare but he cannot risk a disqualification, the champion has that advantage, not the challenger. Barrett looks to stem the flow as he goes for a big clothesline but this misses as Hunter ducks below it and then clatters into Barrett with a barrage of right hands. Barrett hits the ropes and comes off them looking for a big crash into the challenger but this fails – Triple H spins him round and hits a pendulum backbreaker that crashes the back of the champion over his knee! First cover of the match for the challenger, has he done enough?

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Barrett kicks out with time to spare! –


The crowd rally around Triple H as he gets to his feet first, he grabs the WWE Champion by the head and he twists him into a neckbreaker that causes a roar from the crowd. For the first time tonight, Barrett looks in a bit of trouble and the worried looks on the faces of Slater, Otunga, Jackson and Sheffield confirm this. With Barrett down on the mat, HHH looks around and then smiles ... FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK! ‘Woooooo!’ echoes around the arena in homage to Ric Flair as Triple H locks it in and Barrett’s face erupts with pain, he knows he is trouble here. Can HHH force the tap out? Barrett knows he has to escape as soon as he can and he looks to stretch out his considerably tall body to reach the ropes but he falls about a foot short. The referee is urging him to consider a tap out and he kneels beside the grimaced face of Barrett. Another attempt to escape as Barrett stretches for the ropes again, the referee is poised to break the hold or signal for the bell if he taps, Triple H realises that Barrett could get the ropes and he releases the hold. He drops an elbow to Barrett and then drags him to the centre of the ring again, FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK again! Barrett is central in the ring and the crowd are excited now, he could be forced to tap out and give up his title to Hunter right here! Barrett is trying to roll over now but he can’t get the experienced Hunter over, the WWE Champion is looking more and more desperate now! Is he about to tap out? The crowd are getting more and more excited as we look set to crown a new WWE Champion ...

BAM!

Behind the referee’s back, Skip Sheffield hits a right hand to the exposed face of Triple H who never saw it coming. Skip drops to his knees before the ref spots him and crawls back round the ring to his Nexus team-mates as the hold breaks and Barrett is able to free himself. As the referee looks round, he sees nothing but he looks suspiciously as Nexus are patting the back of the big Skip Sheffield. Barrett is now free and he rolls beneath the ropes and out of the ring where the Nexus team surround him and check on him. The referee demands that they leave him alone but they ignore this – what is the referee going to do? Disqualify Barrett? Nexus – safe in the knowledge that a DQ loss is fine – ignore the referee and help Barrett to his feet as the referee begins the countout ...

– 1 –

– 2 –

– 3 –

– 4 –

– 5 –

The referee again beckons to Barrett to get back in the ring but he just waves an arm towards the referee, he is fine where he is. Triple H looks to go after him but the referee holds him back and the other members of Nexus stand up to him as if daring him to do just that. The referee continues to count him ...

– 6 –

– 7 –

– 8 –

Triple H looks pissed off as the crowd jeer and boo Nexus. Barrett continues to ignore the referee and, with a limp visible, he begins to head down the aisle to the disgust of the fans. The referee again has to hold back Triple H and it appears that Nexus are leaving ...

– 9 –

The referee looks to Nexus with a look of resignation in his eyes, they are not interested in coming back to the ring and he has only one thing that he can do now ...

– 10 –


He turns to signal for the bell when a voice echoes around the arena ...


???
Hold it there, referee!

All eyes turn towards the titantron where the RAW General Manager Shawn Michaels is stood looking out into the arena. He looks unconcerned about the situation in the WWE Championship match and is smiling as usual ...

SHAWN MICHAELS
No way, Wade, no way! You might have gotten your way – thanks to Kurt Angle – last Monday night, you might have your Nexus cronies with you at ringside but you are not walking out of this match. No chance, my friend!

Barrett and Nexus are halfway out of the arena but Barrett’s eyes are blazing as he looks up at the titantron. Triple H is in the ring and looks pleased with what his former DX partner Shawn Michaels has to say here ...

SHAWN MICHAELS
Barrett, you have ten seconds to get back in the ring. If you don’t get there, Triple H might not win the WWE Championship but I do have the power to strip you of the WWE Championship instead. So you better get your English ass back in the ring if you want to keep your title ... And if you think about deliberately getting counted out again, the same rule applies. Get moving, boy! TEN ... NINE ... EIGHT ...

The crowd begin to chant along and the referee signals the countdown with his hands ... SEVEN ... SIX ... Barrett looks dumbstruck with anger, he edges towards the ring a little, his limp still visible from the Figure Four Leg Lock ... FIVE ... FOUR ... Barrett realises that his title is in jeopardy and begins to run towards the ring as the crowd chant and countdown ... THREE ... TWO ... Barrett slides back into the ring just in time! Triple is waiting and he drops an elbow to his back before jumping to his feet, a new wave of energy coursing through his veins ... Kick to the gut from Triple H ... Neckbreaker! Another neckbreaker from Triple H and Barrett clutches his neck in pain as Triple H goes for the cover ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Kick out from Barrett! –


Groans from the WWE Universe as Barrett again escapes. He staggers up to his knees as he desperately tries to find a way to stop the momentum of Hunter, another kick to the gut from HHH ... Here we go! Could it be time for a Pedigree? Triple H begins to set up his big finish move, he looks set to become the WWE Champion here! He hooks the arms of Barrett and is about to strike when Ezekiel Jackson leaps up on the apron and distracts him. Hunter demands that he gets out of the way but the delay is enough and Barrett is able to summon all his strength to back body drop the challenger and escapes the Pedigree just in time to save his WWE Championship. Disappointment echoes around the arena as Hunter writhes on the mat in pain after crashing down, he has taken a beating as well tonight already. Both men stagger to their feet, Triple H looks for a clothesline but misses ... BIG BOOT FROM BARRETT! Triple H spins round from the impact and hits the mat with a crash. Barrett looks to take advantage and makes the cover, hooking the leg ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Nooo! Triple H kicks out! –


Barrett slams his hand down on the mat in anger before he argues with the referee over the ‘slow’ count and the decision of HBK just a moment ago. He looks concerned but he is back in control here, he grabs Triple H and for a second it looks as if he might be trying to Pedigree him – he isn’t and he lifts Triple H up high, POWERBOMB! A groan around the arena as they witness the impact of the Powerbomb and there is concern for Hunter here and Barrett rolls him up in another pinfall attempt ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Triple H kicks out just in time! –


A frustrated Barrett again pounds the mat with his fist, he is one unhappy WWE Champion right now. He signals to his Nexus team-mates that he is going to finish it, the match is ending now! He grabs Triple H and drags him up to his feet before lifting him onto his shoulders and setting himself. Is it time now? WASTELANDS! WADE BARRETT HITS WASTELANDS ON TRIPLE H! It’s surely over! As soon as Triple H’s body crashes down onto the mat, Barrett drops down, hooks the legs and is set to retain his WWE Championship ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– 3 –

No! Triple H kicked out at the last second!


A huge cheer around the arena as Barrett looks on in shock. He tilts his head towards the Nexus team around the ring and they look amazed as well. What has Barrett got to do to put Triple H away? A look of determination crosses the face of the WWE Champion and he gets up and drags Triple H up with him. He lifts Hunter up to his shoulders again, a second Wasteland will finish him for sure! However, Triple H begins to struggle and manages to elbow Barrett in the side of the head to force himself clear, Barrett turns in shock and Triple H hits the ropes before hitting a running knee lift that staggers the champion backwards and over as the crowd cheer now. Nexus still look amazed and in shock, how did Triple H kick out of the Wastelands finisher? As Barrett staggers to the corner, it is Hunter’s turn to mount the ropes and smash the punches into the face of the champion now and the crowd cheer along with them as they rain down onto him. Hunter steps back and grabs the arm of the Nexus leader, he whips him across the ring with intensity and Barrett smashes back first into the opposite turnbuckles with a crash. As he staggers out of the corner, Trips meets him and back body drops him up and over, crashing down hard on his back. Hunter is ready to strike now and he drags Barrett up, positions his head between his knees and sets up again. The arms are hooked ... PEDIGREE! TRIPLE H HITS THE PEDIGREE TO THE WWE CHAMPION! Hunter makes the cover ... new WWE Champion coming up!

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Wait a minute! –


Heath Slater clatters into the back of Triple H and breaks the pinfall as he begins to pummel the challenger hard in the face with right hands, over and over and over. Huge heat for the One Man Rock Band as he continues his assault on the Game, he steps back and allows Hunter up ... E MINOR! SLATER HITS HIS INVERTED DDT ON HUNTER! Loud boos around the arena but the Nexus team are applauding his efforts. The referee shoves Heath Slater away from Triple H as he taunts him and then looks over to the ringside team, he has no choice ...

... OR DOES HE? The referee turns back to Slater and waves his arms. He is refusing to disqualify Wade Barrett! He signals that Slater is out of here and orders him to leave the arena! The crowd pop as Slater’s anger shows, he refuses to leave but the referee is adamant and he is beckoning security to come out and escort Slater from the ring. As security head out, the referee ushers Slater towards the ropes but David Otunga has sneaked into the ring behind the ref’s back. Unfortunately, he is holding the WWE Championship belt of Barrett and he is measuring ... BAM! TITLE SHOT TO THE BACK OF TRIPLE H! The challenger was showing signs of life but he is now motionless on the mat, face down, thanks to that shot to the shoulders and back. More heat from the crowd and the referee turns and spots Otunga with the title belt. He orders Otunga to leave as well and the security head in. They surround Slater and Otunga and begin to escort them out of the ring as the referee also warns Jackson and Sheffield to stay out of this. They hold up their hands innocently and assure the referee that they are here to watch and not get involved. As Slater and Otunga exit, attention turns back to Hunter and Barrett. Barrett is crawling over the ring towards Triple H, he makes the cover when he rolls him over, surely not this way?

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Triple H gets his shoulder up! –


Huge cheer again as Hunter escapes! Barrett’s anger shows again as he gets in the face of the referee, he is complaining about the decisions tonight – HBK’s involvement, the removal of Slater and Otunga, the ‘slow’ counts – and he appears to be enraged by it. He menacingly traps the ref at the ropes but is stopped in his tracks when Triple H spins him round, kick to the gut and another Pedigree coming up? No! Barrett counters and flips Hunter onto his back instead, clothesline connects as the challenger gets to his feet. Barrett takes a moment to gather himself before he whips the challenger to the ropes and then lifts him up on the run and lets him fall face first ... Triple H smashes down hard face first into the mat and it looks ominous again as Barrett makes another cover ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Kick out from Triple H! –


Barrett kicks the ropes in frustration this time, he is in shock over the fight in Triple H here! He looks desperately to Skip Sheffield and Ezekiel Jackson on the outside but the referee affirms his authority again and orders them to stay out of the ring. They encourage Barrett instead and he grabs Hunter, whips him to the ropes ... SIDEWALK SLAM! A second sidewalk slam from Barrett and this time it looks as if he has the match won as he makes the cover and hooks the leg ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Noooo! Triple H kicks out again! –


Frustration yet again for Wade Barrett and it threatens to boil over as he goes to strike the referee. He comes to his senses at the last second as the referee covers himself up, Skip and Big Zeke talk Barrett out of it from the outside and he pulls back. He prepares to launch at Triple H again as he slowly gets up. Barrett spins and goes for a clothesline with some power behind it but Triple H surprises everybody by ducking underneath the arm of the champion ... kick to the gut from Triple H again ... PEDIGREE! QUICK PEDIGREE FROM TRIPLE H! NEW CHAMPION?

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Not again! Pinfall broken again! –


This time, Skip Sheffield is the one who stops it by dragging Triple H from the pinfall and out of the ring in the nick of time. How on earth is Triple H going to beat the numbers game here? Skip Sheffield is showing his freshness and his power as he connects with clothesline after clothesline, he then rams Hunter shoulder first into the barricades and the referee is yet again forced out of the ring to deal with it. Security spill out of the backstage area and they head for the Cornfed Collossus as he threatens to beat Triple H again. The security drag Skip away and the referee is directing them to remove him from the arena but this allows Ezekiel Jackson to sneak up on Triple H from behind. He drags him back to the ring and then follows him inside ... HUGE CLOTHESLINE FROM JACKSON TO TRIPLE H! He quickly exits the ring and goes after the crowd of security who are ushering Skip Sheffield away. The referee returns to the ring and sees that Wade Barrett is getting to his knees after the Pedigree and that Triple H is down and out in the ring. Barrett drags the challenger up ... WASTELANDS! BARRETT HITS WASTELANDS TO TRIPLE H! Cover from Wade Barrett ...


– 1 –
– 2 –
– 3 –


WINNER
WADE BARRETT (11:37)

The referee raises the hand of Wade Barrett as the crowd jeer and boo but the Nexus theme begins in the background – Wade Barrett has retained the WWE Championship here tonight! Ezekiel Jackson slides back into the ring and celebrates with his leader before ushering him out of the ring to the aisle. The pair of them back up the aisle and are joined by Otunga, Slater and Sheffield who help them to celebrate Barrett retaining the title ...

JIM ROSS
Yet again, King, Wade Barrett wins his WWE Championship match thanks to his Nexus colleagues!

JERRY LAWLER
Was there ever any doubt about it? As soon as Kurt Angle cost the Game the match on Monday Night RAW last week, Nexus were always going to get involved tonight.

JIM ROSS
The numbers game proves too much for Triple H, credit to the referee who tried to allow the match to continue but, in the end, too much ...

The camera focuses on a grinning Wade Barrett as he stands independently again and lifts the WWE Championship high in the air to huge heat but he doesn’t care. Wade Barrett is still the WWE Champion!

The cameras switch to the backstage area where a limosine is rolling into the parking lot slowly coming to a halt ...


JIM ROSS
Who is this arriving here, King?

JERRY LAWLER
No idea, JR, it’s bound to be somebody good though in a limosine like that!

The camera focuses on the door as the limo comes to a complete stop and the crowd fall quiet for a moment as they wait to see who is in the limo. The door slowly opens and the wait continues ...

JIM ROSS
Who is it, King?

Two feet appear beneath the door, sparkling glitter shines from the boots as they reflect the light. The camera pans up and over the top of the door, we see a muscled chest and a sparkling wrestling jacket. The camera continues to move up past wavy, long blonde hair ...



JERRY LAWLER
CHRIS JERICHO!

JIM ROSS
Chris Jericho is back in the WWE, King! But wait a minute, look at him ...

As Jericho steps away from the limo, he begins walking towards the backstage area and he has a smile on his face, he is greeting people with a wave of a hand or a handslap to people he knows. This doesn’t appear to be the serious Chris Jericho, the suit wearing guy who attacked a referee before he left just before Cyber Sunday. This appears to be a Chris Jericho that we haven’t seen for quite a few years ...

JERRY LAWLER
Oh my god, JR, could this be? Could we be witnessing the return of ... Y2J? Tonight?

Jericho disappears from view round a corner and the camera returns to the ring where an excitable King is smiling, he seems delighted to see Jericho back tonight.

TONY CHIMEL
Ladies and Gentlemen, the following contest is Tag Team Turmoil and it is for the Tag Team Championships. In this contest, two tag teams will start. When one of these teams wins via pinfall, submission, countout or disqualification, the next team will enter and the match will continue. Once all the teams have entered, the last remaining team will be declared the winners and will be announced as the Tag Team Champions!

Attention turns towards the titantron and we find out who the first team to enter Tag Team Turmoil tonight will be ...

*** RADIO ***

Long Island, New York
437 pounds
Tag Team Champions
*** THE MAJOR BROSKIS ***


Out head the Tag Team Champions looking worried about their titles being in grave jeopardy here as they start the match. They look less hyper than usual and they slide into the ring before complaining to the referee about something.

JERRY LAWLER
The Tag Team Champions start the match, JR! That’s not good for them, they need to survive five decisions just to retain their titles!

JIM ROSS
A couple of weeks ago on NXT, King, the champions lost a match to Evan Bourne and Mark Henry which meant that they were given one of the earlier spots in the match. Unfortunately for them, they appear to have drawn one!

Ryder and Hawkins hands over their Tag Team Championship belts to the referee and then they turn towards the titantron to see who they will be facing first ...

JIM ROSS
Now, we know that the next two teams to enter will be the Hart Dynasty and the Usos after they also lost matches on NXT. Question is, which team will come out second and who will get a little bit more respite and come out third?

*** GET UP ***

The Isle of Samoa
479 pounds
*** THE USOS ***


Jimmy and Jey Uso, the nephews of former WWE great Rikishi, head out looking excited by the opportunity tonight. They head for the ring and it seems that we are starting out with the Tag Team Champions, Ryder and Hawkins, against The Usos.

TAG TEAM TURMOIL FOR THE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS
FALL 1: MAJOR BROSKIS (c) vs. THE USOS

We’re going to start out with Zack Ryder and Jey Uso as this Tag Team Turmoil contest begins and the Tag Team Champions from Long Island look to retain – unfortunately for them, they have five other teams to see off. It is a fast start from Ryder and Jey Uso as they battle to establish superiority for their team. It is back and forth at first but then Jey Uso manages to hit a diving headbutt from the top ropes that looks to have given the Usos the first win in the match ... He hooks Ryder’s leg for the pin ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Ryder kicks out to retain the title for now! –


Jey appears to be unperturbed and he drags Ryder up and whips him to the ropes. As Ryder hits the ropes, Hawkins tags himself in off the back of Ryder but Jey misses this ... THRUST SUPERKICK FROM JEY USO! Ryder is down and out in the centre of the ring and he makes the cover. Jey looks confident he has the first match won but his brother is trying to warn him as the referee fails to make the count. Jey gets up confused and Hawkins hits him with a spear that he never saw coming. Bam! Hawkins drags the Samoan to his feet and sets up ... Belly to Back Suplex that crashes Jey Uso shoulder first down onto the mat and he writhes in pain. Here goes Hawkins with the first cover of the night for the Tag Team Champions ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Kick out from Jey Uso! –


Hawkins heads for a neutral corner and he climbs the ropes and measures Jey who is down on the mat. Here goes Hawkins ... HEAT SEEKING ELBOW ... Misses! Jey moves out of the way at the last moment and makes a tag to Jimmy who comes in like a ball of fire. He clotheslines Hawkins who staggers to the corner and sits there to recover. Big mistake! A running corner splash in the corner follows as Jimmy looks to put Hawkins away. With Hawkins in trouble, Jimmy slams him down in the centre of the ring and then heads outside and climbs to the top rope. Hawkins is showing no sign of moving like Jey did a minute ago, Jimmy stands on top of the ropes and he leaps off ... SUPERFLY SPLASH! JIMMY USO CONNECTS WITH THE SUPERFLY SPLASH! Jimmy hooks the leg ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Ryder to the rescue of Hawkins! –


Zack Ryder just makes it over in time and drags Jimmy Uso off the fallen Hawkins, he gets to his feet and a brawl begins with Ryder before Jey returns to the ring as well and all four men go at it. Jimmy Uso is taken down by Ryder and he falls with his head against the middle turnbuckle ... BROSKI BOOT FROM RYDER! However, Ryder is then taken down by Jey Uso and they spill to the outside of the ring as their brawling continues. With Jimmy struggling from the Broski Boot, Hawkins heads for the top rope again ... HEAT SEEKING ELBOW! THIS TIME HAWKINS CONNECTS! Curt Hawkins makes the cover to Jimmy, is it over?


– 1 –
– 2 –
– 3 –


WINNER
MAJOR BROSKIS (4:38)

Ryder and Hawkins celebrate their win over the Usos as the Samoans roll away and make their way out of the ringside area. Ryder and Hawkins look delighted with their first win but the smiles are quickly wiped off their faces as their second opponents head out into the arena ...

*** NEW FOUNDATION ***

445 pounds
*** HART DYNASTY ***


Out head the Harts with Natalya accompanying them and they look confident of victory here tonight. After their defeat to the British Empire last week on NXT, David Hart Smith and Tyson Kidd have been sent out third for the match but they have the skills to be able to outlast the opposition? Question is, do they have the stamina?

TAG TEAM TURMOIL FOR THE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS (continued)
FALL 2: MAJOR BROSKIS (c) vs. HART DYNASTY

When Tyson Kidd and David Hart Smith enter the ring, the Major Broskis look to catch them unaware with a surprise attack but the Dynasty duck this and respond with their own. Kidd hits a dropkick to Hawkins who staggers through the ropes to the outside whilst Smith hits a German suplex to Ryder that crashes him down hard on the mat. Kidd hits the ropes and flies through the opposite ropes and connects with a Suicide Dive to Hawkins that knocks him back into the aisle as Kidd jumps back up clearly excited by the chance to win the Tag Titles tonight! As Kidd returns to the corner and the tag rope, Hart Smith begins to work on Zack Ryder in the ring. He hits three scoop powerslams to Ryder in a row and the Long Islander sells each one a little bit more, the pain etched on his face, before Smith locks him up in a suplex hold. He waits for a moment and then drops him down with a Brainbuster that crashes Ryder down hard on the mat. First cover for the Hart Dynasty tonight ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– A weak kickout from Ryder! –


Smith tags in Kidd who rushes to the ropes and springboards off into an elbow drop that connects with the chest of Ryder who is still down from the Brainbuster. Kidd looks really pumped up and he spots Hawkins trying to make his way back into the ring. His progress is halted as Kidd drop kicks him and knocks him back down off the apron to the outside once again before Kidd locks in a reverse chinlock to the fallen Ryder as he attempts to wear him down to a point where he can no longer defend himself. Ryder tries to battle out but he is beginning to struggle now and it looks as if Tyson is going to be successful in his aim. However, in the end, Ryder makes his way to his feet and runs towards the corner. Dragging Kidd along with him, Ryder drops his shoulder and Kidd, who was trying to hold the chinlock on, goes head first into the turnbuckles and collides painfully. Ryder looks for a quick roll up to Kidd ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Kidd kicks out! –


Ryder is first to his feet, just, and he decides to climb quickly to the top rope from the inside. He turns and leaps towards Kidd and hits him with a plancha from the top rope that takes the smaller member of the Dynasty down to the mat, another pinfall attempt from the Tag Team Champion here ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Kidd kicks out again! –


Ryder is growing in confidence again and he climbs up to the top rope once more as he waits for Kidd to get up as well. Once Kidd is up, Ryder leaps off the top rope and hits a missile dropkick that sends Kidd crashing down to the mat, great move from Ryder. He leaps over and hooks the leg of Kidd once again ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Another kick out from Tyson Kidd! –


Hawkins is now back in position and he takes the tag from Zack Ryder before heading into the ring. Kidd is trying to make a tag to his partner, David Hart Smith, but Curt catches him from behind with an Enzuguri kick that sends him down to the mat once again. With Kidd stunned, it’s looking dubious for him and Hawkins looks to take advantage as he locks in a headlock hold before lifting Kidd up ... LAUGH RIOT! LIFTING DDT FROM HAWKINS THAT CRASHES KIDD DOWN INTO THE MAT! Has he done enough here? Hawkins clearly thinks so as he arrogantly makes the cover to Tyson ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Nooo! Kidd kicks out again! –


David Hart Smith is delighted with his partner and applauds his guts and tenacity as Hawkins – annoyed with the kick out from Kidd – makes a tag to Ryder. Zack makes his way to the top rope where he sizes up his target and waits for his chance ... Off the top rope leaps Ryder looking for a huge leg drop but he wasted too much time, Kidd rolls away and Ryder crashes down to the mat as Kidd makes the tag to his partner. David Hart Smith wastes no time and he grabs the feet of Ryder, steps through, here we go ... SHARPSHOOTER! HART SMITH HAS RYDER IN THE SHARPSHOOTER! Curt Hawkins realises that the titles are in danger and he looks to come in and rescue his partner but Kidd is too quick and he connects with a springboard drop kick that knocks him down and out of the ring again. Ryder is able to reach out and grab the bottom rope and the referee orders Hart Smith to release the hold which he does. He steps back and allows Ryder time to get up, the Broski is looking to make a tag but Curt Hawkins is still not back in position. BIG BOOT! Hart Smith connects with a boot to the face of Zack and he spins in midair before crashing down. Hart Smith grabs Ryder and drags him across towards his corner of the ring where Kidd is waiting for a tag and a chance. David makes the tag to Kidd and then lifts Ryder up into a bearhug as Kidd powers up and hits the ropes ... HART ATTACK! KIDD TAKES RYDER DOWN IN THE HART ATTACK! Tyson makes the cover as Hart Smith exits the ring so the referee can count ...


– 1 –
– 2 –
– 3 –


WINNER
HART DYNASTY (4:13)

Ryder looks shocked as he kneels in the corner of the ring with a look of shock on his face – he cannot believe that he just lost the Tag Team Championships! Hawkins is outside the ring and he is looking at Ryder with a look of disgust in his eyes, he cannot believe what just happened either. As the Harts regroup in the corner, Ryder rolls out of the ring looking extremely disappointed and he holds his hands out to Hawkins. Curt looks him in the eye, shakes his head and turns and walks away from the Long Island Iced Z, he clearly blames Ryder for the loss.

JIM ROSS
You know what this means now, King?

JERRY LAWLER
We’re guaranteed new Tag Team Champions tonight!

JIM ROSS
Question is, King, will it be the Harts or will it be one of the other three teams?

As Ryder and Hawkins disappear out of the arena, attention turns to who will be the fourth team to head out into the match tonight. Will it be Cryme Tyme? The British Empire? Or will it be Evan Bourne and Mark Henry? The Dynasty look on as they await the fourth team to compete ... There is a long delay and the referee looks on with a confused look on his face. He heads out of the ring and back down the aisle as he looks to find out what is happening. Whilst he is out of the ring though, the next competitors are revealed ...

*** RULE BRITANNIA ***

Great Britain
523 pounds
*** WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN ***
*** THE BRITISH EMPIRE ***


The referee confronts Regal and Ryan as they head out into the arena, he is annoyed with their delaying tactics, but there is a commotion in the ring ... Carrying a British flag, Finlay has snuck through the crowd and he cracks the flagpole across the back of the knees of Tyson Kidd. As Hart Smith turns round in shock, the flag is jammed into his stomach before Finlay quickly rolls out of the ring and hides on the outside. As the referee slides back into the ring, Finlay rounds the ring and joins the Empire team as if he was with them all along. The referee again looks confused but Regal and Ryan don’t waste any time in getting prepared so that the bell can be rung ...

TAG TEAM TURMOIL FOR THE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS (continued)
FALL 3: HART DYNASTY vs. WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (w/Finlay)

Despite Kidd struggling on the mat and Hart Smith being down on the outside, the referee has no choice but to start the match. Mason Ryan is the man who is going to start for the Empire in their first WWE outing. The Welshman grabs the injured Kidd, who is clutching his knee, and places his head between his knees. He lifts him high ... POWERBOMB! KIDD’S BACK CRASHES DOWN ONTO THE MAT! Ryan looks down on Tyson and smirks before tagging in Regal ... In come the British veteran and he goes to Kidd who is down on the mat. He doesn’t make a pin but instead he turns Kidd over ... REGAL STRETCH LOCKED IN BY REGAL! The cry of pain from Kidd is audible and he has no choice ...

– TAP –
– TAP –
– TAP –


WINNER (submission)
WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (0:43)

The crowd boos as Kidd is forced to tap out and the British Empire advance to the fourth fall of the match. As the Hart Dynasty are hobbling away though, Jim Ross begins to receive some information in his earpiece ...

JIM ROSS
King, I’m hearing about some problems backstage here.

The cameras pan back to the backstage area and we see that there are several medics and WWE officials that are fussing over two fallen bodies – it is JTG and Shad Gaspart of Cryme Tyme. Both of them are squirming around in pain and appear to be struggling to stand and it seems as if they were supposed to be the fifth team to head out here to compete in Tag Team Turmoil.

JERRY LAWLER
I guess we won’t be seeing Cryme Tyme in action here tonight then, JR? Look at William Regal ...

The camera focuses on Regal who looks to be acting surprised over the fallen bodies of Cryme Tyme backstage – a little overly concerned it seems.

JERRY LAWLER
Do you think that maybe Regal knows something about the attack on JTG and Shad, JR?

JR doesn’t answer but Tony Chimel is speaking to the referee and then he addresses the crowd ...

TONY CHIMEL
Ladies and Gentlemen, I have just been informed that, due to injury, Cryme Tyme will not be competing here tonight. As a result, the British Empire will advance into the final fall.

Boos for the Empire who look smug and pleased with what has just been announced. Regal and Ryan laugh in the ring as they await their final opponents – whoever wins the final fall will be the new Tag Team Champions. Will it be the Empire? Or will it be ...

*** SOMEBODIES GONNA’ GET THEIR ASS KICKED ***

577 pounds
*** EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY ***


... Will it be Evan Bourne and Mark Henry? The big man – little man combination head out to the ring and they look to be perfectly fresh as they enter the match. They head for the ring with their eyes firmly on the British Empire who are stood in the ring waiting for them to reach the ring. As soon as Bourne and Henry slide under the bottom rope into the ring, Regal and Ryan rush over and attack and here we go, the match is underway ...

TAG TEAM TURMOIL FOR THE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS (continued)
FINAL FALL: HART DYNASTY vs. WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (w/Finlay)

As Regal and Ryan attack the pairing of Bourne and Henry, they try to pummel them and keep them down on the mat. However, Henry proves to be too strong for Ryan and he powers to his feet and shove the Welshman aside before they go face to face. Ryan tries to pick up and slam Henry but he simply laughs and then clotheslines him out of the ring with a huge grin on his face for the WWE Universe. He turns and sees that Bourne has utilised his range of kicks to take down Regal as well as the referee urges Henry to exit the ring and wait for a tag. He obliges as Bourne connects with a roundhouse kick that keeps Regal down before he hits a standing moonsault. Bourne makes the cover, could this be new Tag Team Champions?

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Regal kicks out! –


JR and King remind everybody that this fall will determine who the new Tag Team Champions will be as Bourne makes the tag to his huge partner, Mark Henry, who steps through the ropes looking determined to become a Tag Team Champion right now. Regal backs into the corner and Henry hits a headbutt before whipping him to the opposite corner and then running over to hit a huge splash in the corner. Regal is squashed in the corner and he is then shoved over by Henry who looks immovable here. He drops to his knees and makes a cover to the Brit ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Regal kicks out as Mason Ryan kicks Henry in the head! –


Ryan made the save despite Regal not needing it but this just annoys the World’s Strongest Man as he gets to his feet and grabs Ryan by the throat. A kick to the knee from Ryan gives him a break but not long enough as his punches fail to stagger the big man who responds with a scoop powerslam that squashes Mason down on the mat. Henry goes for the ropes as he looks for a splash but he is hit – unseen by the referee – by Finlay’s flagpole which connects with his lower back with a crack. Henry falls to his knees at the side of the ropes before Regal hits a knee strike to the face of Henry that takes him down to the mat. Regal tags in Ryan who comes in and stands back from Henry allowing him to get back up – a mistake? No, he launches at him and staggers him with a shoulder block, then another and finally a third with the ropes used for extra spring. Henry falls to the mat with a crash as Ryan waits again for him to get up ... BIG BOOT! Ryan’s big foot connects with the side of Henry’s face and he makes the cover quickly looking to finish this ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Henry powers out to the amazement of Ryan! –


Stood in shock, Mason Ryan appears to have no idea how to keep Henry down now and he swings a clothesline that misses ... Full Nelson from Mark Henry! Henry swings Mason Ryan like a ragdoll in the Full Nelson hold before swinging him round and crashing him down with a Full Nelson slam instead. Regal comes running in worried over his partner and is met with a huge headbutt from Henry before a scoop slam that leaves Regal rolling on the mat in pain. Henry shoves him out of the ring with his foot before heading over to Ryan in the corner. He slams him down as well and places him in the corner ready ... He climbs to the middle rope and then hits a Corner Slingshot splash that squashes the life out of Ryan and leaves him gasping for air in the corner. Cover from Mark Henry ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Finlay places Ryan’s foot on the rope! –


Mark Henry notices the foot on the rope as well and decides to leave Ryan down in the corner. He tags in Evan Bourne instead who rushes over and climbs the ropes, Mason is in perfect place for the big finisher of Bourne. Evan balances himself on the top rope and then sails off ... AIR BOURNE CONNECTS WITH MASON RYAN! It’s surely over now! New Tag Team Champions! Bourne makes the cover as Henry threatens Finlay to stay away this time ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Regal makes the save this time! –


Frustrated, Mark Henry stomps into the ring after William Regal and hits another head butt to send him to the outside. Henry continues to stalk him and he lifts him up and holds him in his arms ... WORLD’S STRONGEST SLAM! ON THE OUTSIDE! Regal squirms in pain as Henry squashes him on the floor. Grinning, Henry stands back up and encourages Bourne to finish off Mason Ryan in the ring. However, Finlay sneaks up on him and is clutching his shillelagh ... yet again, out of sight of the referee, Finlay hammers his weapon into the knee of Henry who stumbles and falls down to the floor in pain. Bourne sees it and is furious, he runs across the ring and flies through the ropes ... Suicide Dive to Finlay! Regal is down, Henry is down, Finlay – despite not being in the match – is down ... Bourne slides back into the ring and looks down on the three men who are down with a grin. He turns around ... Huge clothesline from Mason Ryan! Bourne’s head snaps back and he crashes down to the mat with a huge crash, a furious clothesline from the big Welshman. This isn’t good, Mason Ryan drags Bourne up ... POWERBOMB! RYAN HITS THE POWERBOMB TO BOURNE! Henry is getting up slowly but he won’t make it in time ...


– 1 –
– 2 –
– 3 –


WINNER & NEW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS
WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (4:53)

Finlay staggers into the ring with the Union Jack flag, the crowd here in Cleveland are unhappy but the new Tag Team Champions are the British Empire – William Regal and Mason Ryan. The referee raises the hands of Regal – who is groggy but happy - and Ryan whilst Finlay joins them and hands them their new Tag Team Championship belts. With the belts raised above their heads, Regal and Ryan take in the heat from the Cleveland crowd with smirks on their faces – they’re not bothered in the slightest. Regal sarcastically waves to some people in the front row who are giving him grief ...

JIM ROSS
King, we have new Tag Team Champions, the British Empire!

JERRY LAWLER
Questionable tactics again, JR, it seems to be catching tonight!

There is a rise in the crowd noise all of a sudden as David Hart Smith and Tyson Kidd head back out of the backstage and start making their way towards the ring looking furious. Kidd is hobbling in pain after Finlay’s flagpole shot to his knees but looks determined to get to the ring and the new champions whilst David Hart Smith is holding his midriff as he heads out too. Medics and security attempt to hold the pair back and reason with them whilst the Empire look on from the centre of the ring. The Hart Dynasty are held back in the end but they are shouting loud at the new champions, they are clearly unhappy over the way in which their title ambitions were ended tonight ...

JERRY LAWLER
When the Harts finally get their hands on the British Empire, JR, I wouldn’t like to be in their shoes!

JIM ROSS
I don’t know about that, King. The Empire are the new Tag Team Champions, I’m sure that they’re exactly where they want to be! And anyway, Mark Henry and Evan Bourne might also want to get their hands on the champions as well!

The camera focuses on the Empire in the ring who are still smirking as they watch the Henry, Bourne and the Hart Dynasty being shepherded out of the arena. The camera switches backstage again and we see Matt Striker stood in the locker room with a microphone.

MATT STRIKER
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time ... the World Heavyweight Champion, CM PUNK!

A mixed reaction for the World Champion who comes into shot with the World Championship belt over his shoulder and a cocky smile on his face. He looks to Striker waiting ...

MATT STRIKER
CM Punk, tonight you go up against Christian who is looking to achieve his dream and become the World Champion. Question is ... Will he be able to defeat you?

Punk laughs out loud at the thought of being beaten by Christian tonight before he speaks ...

CM PUNK
Defeat me? I doubt it, Striker, Christian has never managed to get the job done before and I don’t see any reason why that will change tonight. Do you know who I have beaten recently? I have defeated the Devil’s Favourite Demon, I have defeated the World’s Largest Athlete, I have defeated the WWE’s Breakout Star of 2010 – tonight will be a walk in the park in comparison. Christian is a veteran here in the WWE, he has made a good career for himself. But he has never ever managed to win the big one here – and that won’t change tonight ...

Punk smirks before continuing ...

CM PUNK
Christian claims that his dream will come true here tonight in Cleveland, Ohio, he claims that he will defeat me and take away my World Heavyweight Championship. I have news for Christian, that will not happening. Tonight, his dream turns into yet another nightmare, yet another freeze on the big occasion, yet one more failed attempt to reach the top ...

Punk readjusts the title on his shoulder before continuing ...

CM PUNK
And then, later on tonight, I will sit back, the World Championship still in my possession, and watch the Royal Rumble. I don’t care who wins – Undertaker, Kane, Cena, Kofi on SMACKDOWN, Orton, Edge, Angle or Miz on RAW – I’ll face any of them at WrestleMania. So, Striker, sit back, watch and enjoy – CM Punk’s time has come!

A sarcastic smile from Punk as he heads out of the locker room and begins to head towards the backstage area ready for his match ... A preview video begins to air to show the build up towards the World Championship match tonight between Punk and Christian. It features Christian’s rise towards the top of the WWE from his early days with Edge in the Tag Team division to his singles career featuring his time as European and Intercontinental Champion, his time as ECW Champion is also shown before cutting towards CM Punk’s questioning of whether Christian can ever make it to the top of the WWE and win the big title? Christian’s victory over John Cena to earn a shot at the World Championship is shown before the various confrontations between the pair of them building up to an intense ending to the video which shows Christian holding the World Championship belt on SMACKDOWN ...

The camera returns to the ring where Tony Chimel is waiting with a microphone ready to announce the World Championship match ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***

Chicago, Illinois
218 pounds
World Heavyweight Champion
*** CM PUNK ***


The World Champion heads out first dressed in his wrestling trunks and his black custom made t-shirt showing his taped wrists and declaring his straight edge status. He has the World Championship around his waist as he stops in the aisle and touches the floor before shouting out that it is ‘clobbering time’ before he heads for the ring looking confident of victory here tonight. As Punk climbs through the ropes into the ring, he holds the title belt high to taunt the crowd.

JIM ROSS
CM Punk has been the World Champion for a couple of months now, King, he is determined tonight to stretch that run and turn Christian’s dream into a nightmare.

JERRY LAWLER
CM Punk is very confident, JR, but he needs to respect Christian – if he doesn’t, then Christian could end Punk’s reign right now!

JIM ROSS
Punk is determined to go all the way to WrestleMania as the World Champion and the run he has been on recently, I wouldn’t bet against him!

Punk hands the title over to the referee and removes his t-shirt as he awaits the arrival of his challenger, Christian. Punk’s music fades out and there is a lengthy silence as the crowd await the arrival of one of the WWE’s favourite stars ...

*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
221 pounds
*** CHRISTIAN ***


Huge cheers for the arrival of the challenger who heads out looking determined and pleased to be challenging for the World Championship. He slaps hands with several members of the WWE Universe at ringside before he heads into the ring where he stands on the middle ropes and looks out around the arena for his ‘Peeps’ who are cheering him. Punk tries to talk trash to him as he heads for the opposite corner but Christian ignores him for now.

JIM ROSS
This is Christian’s chance for immortality, King, his chance to make his dream come true. He’s been here in the WWE for thirteen years and tonight could be the night when he finally wins the big one.

JERRY LAWLER
That’s right, JR – but it could also turn into Christian’s worst nightmare too.

Christian and CM Punk come together in the middle of the ring and they go face to face as the anticipation builds for the match to come. The referee holds up the World Championship belt in the air to signal that the match is for the title before he hands the belt over and asks for the bell to be rung ...

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
CM PUNK (c) vs. CHRISTIAN

Both men continue to eye each other as the bell rings and the World Championship match begins. Punk is talking trash to Christian who looks determined, this is his chance to win the big one that has eluded him for over 13 years here in the WWE. The crowd seem up for this one and a defiant ‘CM Punk! CM Punk!’ chant begins from the WWE Universe – the World Champion retains a pocket of dedicated followers at all times it seems. However, a louder ‘Let’s go, Christian!’ chant begins as the majority of the WWE Universe seem to be cheering for the challenger who is chasing his dream. Punk berates Christian for having the nerve to challenge him and claims that he doesn’t deserve to be in the same ring as him. Christian chuckles to himself and this infuriates Punk who slaps Christian around the face for it. A serious look passes Christian’s face now and he raises his head to a smirking CM Punk before slapping him back. The World Champion responds with an attempted clothesline but Christian is able to duck and starts forcing Punk back with forearm smashes to the chest and the jaw of the champion that stagger him back towards the corner of the ring. As Punk backs into the corner, Christian drags him back out and whips him across the ring to the opposite corner before rushing after him. Punk crashes back into the turnbuckles but is able to leap over the oncoming challenger before leaping up as he spins round and taking him down with a well timed and perfectly executed Frankensteiner. As Christian rolls over and back up, Punk springboards off the ropes and hits a clothesline to Christian before going for the first pinfall attempt of the match ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Christian easily kicks out! –


Christian is slow to get to his feet though and Punk comes off the ropes and attempts to hit the Shining Wizard knee to the face of his challenger. Christian manages to avoid the contact though and catches the foot of the champion before rolling him up into a pinfall of his own as he looks to surprise Punk here ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk rolls through and kicks out! –


Punk is again up quickest and he looks to drag Christian up but Captain Charisma is having none of it as he grabs Punk’s head and hits overhead kicks over and over to the side of the face. Punk manages to get clear but he takes time to shake out the shots he took, Christian is up and springboards off the ropes into a forearm smash that knocks Punk down to the canvas with a crash. As the champion rolls back to his feet, Christian is ready and waiting and he ducks the clothesline, grabs Punk in an inverted headlock and then crashes him down again ... Inverted DDT! Punk’s head and shoulders crash down on the mat and the crowd sense an opportunity here for Christian, he makes the cover ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Kick out from a dazed CM Punk! –


Punk rolls to the ropes and he rests on the middle rope – this gives Christian a chance to step up onto his back and, in effect, choke the Straight Edge World Champion over the rope. The referee orders Christian to step down but he slides out of the ring and faces Punk before hitting an uppercut that staggers Punk backwards and back into the ring where he is in danger of losing his title. Christian climbs to the top rope as Punk gathers himself and waits ... As Punk turns around, Christian leaps off and connects with a missile dropkick that catches the champion in the chest and knocks him down. Christian scrambles into the cover and hooks the leg ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk will not stay down, kick out! –


Christian is determined and he bounces back up quickly before dragging Punk up with him. Whipping him to the ropes, Christian lifts Punk high as he comes back and he plants him down on his back with a heavy hitting spinebuster and he holds on for the pin ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk rolls the pin over! –


As Punk rolls, the pair of them move into another pinning combination, this time it is CM Punk pinning Christian. These reversals continue for a few more pinfalls where the referee doesn’t get past one until Punk rolls out to the outside, he is tiring after the early stages and a counter pin reversal competition doesn’t suit him right now. As Punk groggily tries to recover on the outside, Christian refuses to give him time and he climbs the ropes and jumps to the outside with a well executed Plancha that takes Punk down once more. Cheers follow from the crowd as they will on Christian as he seeks to make his dreams come true, he has been the better man so far and the crowd recognise this. As he waits in the ring, at the referee’s request, he surveys the arena for his Peeps with a confident smile on his face. Punk looks to re-enter the ring as the referee reaches a count of 6 but he plays cat and mouse with Christian, threatening to enter, then stepping back until Christian goes out for him. Punk then slides into the ring so that when Christian comes back in, he can attack from above. It works perfectly, Punk is able to connect with a Shining Wizard knee to the side of the challenger’s head. Punk is shoved away by the challenger before he hooks both arms and lifts Christian up into a backbreaker across his knee that leaves him writhing in pain and rolling out of the ring himself. Punk smiles and takes his time to get his breath back before hitting the ropes and running towards Christian, Suicide Dive from Punk, Christian moves and Punk collides with the barriers instead!

Desperate to win the World Championship, Christian begins to bend the rules himself a little now as he uses his shoulder to drive Punk back hard into the ring so that his lower back collides with the ring apron. Punk is in pain from this move and then Christian rams him shoulder first into the steel ring posts before rolling him back into the ring, Christian still with the advantage here! Christian whips Punk to the ropes again before hitting another heavy hitting Spinebuster. This time, however, Punk is not reversing the pinfalls ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– However, Punk is kicking out of them! –


Christian drags Punk back up and locks him up for a DDT – he lifts him up and hits an Impaler DDT that crashes Punk’s forehead down into the mat with force, this is looking good for Christian now! Christian looks like he is going to pin CM Punk but he decides against it this time and stands looking over the World Champion. Instead, he heads for the top rope whilst Punk is down and out on his back. Standing on the top buckle, Christian prepares himself and then sails off ... FROG SPLASH CONNECTS! CHRISTIAN HITS THE FROG SPLASH ON CM PUNK! Could this be Christian’s moment? He makes the cover and hooks the leg of the champion ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– CM Punk kicks out again! –


Christian looks unhappy for a moment but then he recovers his composure and he steps back and waits for Punk to get to his feet as he holds his arms out. Clearly, Christian has made his mind up, here comes the Killswitch and, if he hits this, Christian would surely realise his dream of becoming the World Champion here in the WWE! Christian grabs Punk and sets himself for the Killswitch but he can’t hit it as CM Punk reverses and then uses his flexibility to kick the ribs and shoulders of Christian as he escapes once more. Christian staggers away and uses the ropes to launch another attack but Punk manages to catch Christian and lift him up ... POWERBOMB FROM CM PUNK! He holds the powerbomb as he makes the pinfall, Christian is all rolled up here ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Christian kicks out! –


A relieved sigh echoes around the arena as Christian manages to escape and another ‘Christian!’ chant begins as the Cleveland crowd rally behind him. However, Punk has the upper hand now and he hits a high knee in the corner of the ring as Christian stumbles back into the ropes. Punk smiles as he looks to hit the Bulldog next but Christian manages to throw him off instead, Punk lands awkwardly on the mat and then, as he gets up gingerly, Christian springboards off the ropes again and hits a crossbody that knocks Punk down. Christian lands on top of him and hooks the leg immediately ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk kicks out yet again! –


CM Punk will not stay down here! However, Christian is not to be put off and he scoop slams Punk down onto the mat and – yet again – heads to the top rope as he looks to use his best moves to finish this. Onto the top rope again, Christian sails off once more ... DIVING HEADBUTT CONNECTS! IS IT OVER NOW? Christian crawls over CM Punk and hooks the leg ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– No! CM Punk kicks out! –


A slight sign of frustration now from Christian but he yet again sets for the Killswitch. Clapping his hands together, Christian waits for Punk to get up and then he tries to twist Punk round for it ... Punk shoves him aside once more, this is turning into a real counter attack match, Punk comes off the ropes ... Christian hits a flapjack! Punk crashes down, Christian with the cover as the crowd’s excitement builds again!

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk kicks out! –


Christian slams his hand down on the mat – definite frustration now for the Canadian. However, his resolve is clear as well, he is not going to be denied tonight it seems. Christian goes for the top rope again, he looks to be going for a second Frog Splash right now! He sails off the ropes but this time CM Punk moves out of the way and Christian crashes and burns – how close is Christian going to get tonight to glory? Both men are now down and whoever gets up first could have an advantage here ...


JIM ROSS
What an effort so far from Christian, King, can he keep th ...

JERRY LAWLER
Wait a minute, JR! What is this jerk doing out here?



Boos erupt around the arena as the SMACKDOWN General Manager heads out and starts to make his way towards the ring with a look of worry on his face. He desperately does not want Christian to win the World Championship tonight and his appearance out here, when Christian is doing so well, is not a good sign for the WWE Universe’s favourite ... Neither man has noticed the arrival of Cole as they are recovering in the ring and they are on their knees as a slugfest begins between them. Cole, watching intently, removes the turnbuckle padding in the corner as Christian and Punk continue to brawl on their knees. They get up to their feet as Cole patrols the outside of the ring where he is now noticed by the referee who orders him to stay outside the ring. Cole looks annoyed and shouts to the referee that he is the General Manager and he’ll do as he pleases. Punk gets the better of Christian in the ring now and then he whips the challenger towards the corner. Christian slams hard back first into the exposed steel in the corner of the ring and he sinks to his knees grimacing in pain. Punk rolls Christian up as the referee realises that the buckle cover has come loose but he does his job and makes the count first ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Christian kicks out weakly! –


The referee grabs the padding from the buckle and he looks round at Cole who has now been spotted by CM Punk as well. Punk makes the connection between Christian’s pain, the exposed turnbuckle and Cole and he stares down at the General Manager with an angry look in his eyes. Punk argues with the General Manager and tells him to get out of the way, that he doesn’t need no help from a spineless weasel like him. Despite being egotistical and self centred, Punk is not interested in getting any help from Michael Cole and he wins a few admirers for this stance. Christian, still not noticing Cole, lifts himself to the middle rope and sees Punk distracted before catching him by surprise with another dropkick from the ropes. Punk crashes back, Cole looks worried as Christian makes the cover again ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk kicks out! –


Christian now notices Michael Cole and he tells him to get out of here as well. Cole tells Christian that he has no chance of winning this World Championship and that he is the General Manager and can go where he wants to. Christian goes for another DDT to Punk but he is distracted by the presence of Cole and he doesn’t manage to hit it as Punk reverses it and sets, for the first time tonight, for a Go To Sleep (GTS) that Christian has to wriggle clear of. As Christian comes off the ropes, CM Punk manages to hit him with a running scoop slam and crashes him onto the mat. At this point, Cole enters the ring and he is carrying the World Championship belt. This distracts Punk and he eyes Cole with disdain. Cole hands the title belt to Punk and points to Christian as the referee protests. Cole orders the referee not to disqualify Punk and then tells Punk to smash Christian in the face with the belt and to get the hell out of the city of Cleveland. Punk considers Cole for a moment and then smirks ... He tosses the World Championship belt down in the corner of the ring and makes it clear to Cole that he is ‘the best in the world’ and then orders him to leave him to it. Cole smiles to Punk after a short, tense moment and then demands that Punk wins the match or faces the consequences. Cole straightens his suit up and then exits the ring and heads back down the aisle. Punk watches him go before popping Christian off into the ropes ... Tilt-a-whirl backbreaker this time as Punk seeks to end the match successfully for him. He signals to the crowd that it is time for the GTS to a mixed reaction but – as he goes to get Christian up on his shoulders – the challenger wriggles clear and springboards off the ropes into a Sunset Flip that pins Punk’s shoulders to the mat again ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk only just kicks out! –


Surprised by Christian’s fight, Punk was almost caught out there and he knows it as he puffs out his cheeks in relief. He jumps up quickest and hits a barrage of kicks to the chest of Christian, that might have been the wake up call Punk needed. He hits a high knee to Christian in the corner again but this time the Bulldog does connect and Christian looks in severe trouble here. Punk goes up to the top rope now and then leaps off, elbow drop from the top rope! Punk lands squarely on the chest of Christian who is in real danger now, Punk makes the cover ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Weak kickout from Christian! –


Punk jumps up and waits ... Christian staggers up, Punk lifts him onto his shoulders ... GO TO SLEEP! CM PUNK HITS THE GO TO SLEEP ON CHRISTIAN! CHRISTIAN’S DREAM IS OVER! Punk signals that the match is over by crossing his hands before he hooks the legs to end Christian’s dream ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Christian kicks out again! –


The crowd explode with joy – how did Christian do that? He is not going to give up, Christian is fighting for his dream tonight! Punk looks shocked and staggers back with ***** in his usual cool expression, he cannot believe what Christian just did! Punk again stands up and signals for the GTS, a second one would surely end this contest ... wouldn’t it? Punk lifts Christian up, he has him set up for a second time ... However, this time, Christian rolls himself clear and rolls CM Punk up for a pinfall instead ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– CM Punk just kicks out in time! –


Punk looks rattled and he completely misses with a reckless, uncharacteristically wild clothesline as Christian ducks it easily ... Punk hits the ropes instead, comes off them ... FLAPJACK! Christian hits a flapjack to Punk as he buys himself some time to breathe and recover. Another springboard from Christian next, he this time connects with a crossbody that takes Punk down, another pinfall ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk gets his shoulder up! –


Christian steadies himself now, a look of intense determination on his face, he waits and waits ... Up gets CM Punk, here goes Christian as he looks for something huge ... He twists CM Punk around ... KILLSWITCH! CHRISTIAN HAS HIT THE KILLSWITCH! HIS DREAM COMES TRUE! Christian savours the moment for a millisecond before falling down on the prone body of the World Champion, he hooks the leg and the referee makes the count ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– Punk reaches out and grabs the rope to save his title! –


Christian holds his head in his hands as the referee signals a 2 count and the crowd groans in disappointment. The dream is still alive but it hasn’t yet come true and Christian thought he had done it at last! Looking round at the support he is getting from the WWE Universe, Christian steels himself and looks like he is planning his next moves as he looks down at Punk and starts to lift him up ... Suddenly, Punk strikes though ... ANACONDA VICE! CM PUNK LOCKS IN THE ANACONDA VICE! Christian wriggles and squirms but Punk has the hold locked in and now the danger is that Christian will be forced to tap out and end his own dream before it comes true. Christian is struggling like crazy, he is desperate to get clear of Punk but he cannot do it ... As he begins to fade a little, Christian makes one more big concerted effort to escape as he stretches for the ropes with his right foot ... he stretches and squirms and wriggles ... GOT IT! CHRISTIAN REACHES THE ROPES WITH HIS FOOT! The referee orders a devastated CM Punk to release the hold, he thought he had the match won there! Punk rolls away from Christian and looks towards him, he is realising how big a challenge Christian is presenting him now ...

Punk waits patiently as Christian struggles and strains with himself and tries to get up. Wobbling, he reaches his knees, he looks like easy prey but Punk knows that nothing could be further from the truth now. He needs something big and, when Punk needs something big, it is usually sleep time. As Christian spins round, Punk lifts him high up again ... GO TO SLEEP CONNECTS! CM PUNK HITS A SECOND GTS! The crowd groan in disappointment as the head of the challenger snaps back, the dream is over now ... CM Punk makes a relieved cover ...

– 1 –
– 2 –
– 3 –

– NO! CHRISTIAN KICKS OUT AGAIN! –


What exactly does CM Punk need to do to beat this man tonight?

The crowd are roaring with delight! They now believe that it is Christian’s night, they believe that Christian is heading for the World Championship come what may! CM Punk cannot beat Christian! Punk’s eyes tell the story, he does not believe what is happening tonight and he looks fearful as he looks down on the body of Christian, breathing heavy, heart beating fast inside. Punk shakes his head, he is at a loss but he goes for a second Anaconda Vice attempt, Christian fights back out of it though and – groggily – looks to hit another Killswitch. Punk manages to escape with a kick to the side of Christian’s head though ... ANACONDA VICE! CM PUNK HAS THE ANACONDA VICE LOCKED IN ONCE MORE! Christian writhes and squirms as he feels the pain of the submission hold again and he fights desperately – trying to free himself or reach the ropes. He stretches out his feet and tries to wrap them around the rope but CM Punk sees this and drags himself and Christian inches further away to deny this escape route. Punk is screaming at Christian to tap out but there is no chance of that here, Christian is fighting for his dream. He tries to roll CM Punk over onto his back so that he can get some leverage to force an escape but every time he gets off the ground, Punk shoves him back as he uses his feet to push off ... How can Christian escape this? Is he going to be forced to tap out? Christian continues to struggle and continues to refuse to acquiesce to the request of the official who advises him to tap out. Christian struggles and struggles, fights and fights but there is no escape here for him. As Christian fights, he begins to weaken and he is going limp a little ... However, he keeps fighting back, he knows he has to escape or reach the ropes ... Christian fights some more but he has been in the Anaconda Vice for over a minute now, he has taken a real beating ... His hand flops down and Christian looks as if he might be about to tap out ... The crowd scream for him to keep fighting but he may have no choice. Christian’s hand flops again, he looks like he might have passed out now ... CM Punk continues to wrench the hold as much as he can, desperate to force Christian to tap out, desperate to get out of Cleveland, Ohio, with the title belt around his waist. The referee looks concerned now as he tries to ascertain whether or not Christian is conscious or not ...


The referee is checking on Christian again with a look of worry in his eyes ...
– THE REFEREE ELECTS TO END THE MATCH –


WINNER
CM PUNK (16:29)

TONY CHIMEL
Ladies and Gentlemen, I have just been informed by the referee that even though Christian has not tapped out to CM Punk’s Anaconda Vice, he has elected to end this match due to fears over the long term health of Christian. Therefore, the winner of the match ... and STILL World Heavyweight Champion ... CM PUNK!

As his music restarts, Punk releases the Anaconda Vice and rolls away to the corner of the ring where he sits propped up against the turnbuckle looking over to Christian with a look of – could it be? – respect in his eyes. Punk looks shocked at the fight that Christian showed here tonight and the way he gave everything for his dream. As Punk looks on, Christian is still laid out on the mat, on his back with several medics sliding into the ring to check on his condition. The referee heads to Punk with the World Heavyweight Championship and hands it to the champion who raises the belt in victory although he looks relieved rather than celebratory. Punk hobbles over towards Christian and the medics, fearing for their safety as well as Christian’s, plead with Punk to leave him alone. However, Punk is not there to attack Christian some more, he is simply there to look over Christian – it is as if he is checking on his challenger. A relieved Punk wipes away the sweat from his eyes and face before stepping back and raising the belt again and then he rolls under the ropes and out of the ring shaking his head slightly.

JIM ROSS
CM Punk retains, King ... but what a close call it was!

JERRY LAWLER
Christian gave it everything, JR, but he just fell short in the end. A desperately close run thing!

JIM ROSS
CM Punk is still the World Champion!

As Punk reaches the top of the stage, he turns and looks back towards the ring with a look of relief still showing in his eyes. Christian is now being helped to his feet and is conscious – but groggy – and is trying to shake off the combination of grogginess and disappointment at not being able to make the dream come true. He looks up to the stage area where Punk is stood and stares at the World Champion who returns the look. A respectful moment to end a great battle here tonight at the Rumble ... As Christian begins to steadily make his way out of the ring, the WWE Universe give him a great ovation and this raises a smile despite the disappointment of Christian ...

JERRY LAWLER
A great match, JR. What a shame that Michael Cole came down to try and prevent Christian from winning the title. I’m happy that CM Punk didn’t appear to be pleased with him!

JIM ROSS
When Punk realised what Cole had done, he didn’t react well. But, maybe we should have expected Cole to come down here tonight? He did tell Christian that he didn’t want him as SMACKDOWN’s World Champion after all!

JERRY LAWLER
I’m sure Christian will get another chance soon, even Cole can’t deny him after that epid battle! And I’m sure he’ll manage to win the World Championship one of these days. However, it’s time now to find out who is going to challenge for the title in the main event of WrestleMania 27, oh my!

JIM ROSS
That’s true, King, the Royal Rumble match is set to kick off the ‘Road to WrestleMania’ in a few moments time and the Rumble is always one of the most exciting events of the year!

A promo video is shown which highlights the importance of the numbers in determining the winner of the Rumble before we return backstage where Josh Mathews is stood waiting for an interview.

JOSH MATHEWS
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is almost time for the Royal Rumble match. Please welcome my guest at this time ... Cleveland’s own ... THE MIZ!

A huge reaction for Miz – mixed with many people cheering their hometown hero and others jeering for the heel – as his smirking, arrogant face appears alongside Mathews. He is holding the ‘Money in the Bank’ briefcase and is wearing a long coat as he is clearly ready and prepared for the Rumble ...

JOSH MATHEWS
Miz, we’re here in your hometown, we’re moments away from the Royal Rumble match ... Many people are speculating that tonight could be your night ...

Miz grabs the microphone and cuts Mathews off before facing the camera and causing another mixed reaction from the people of Cleveland. He smirks again ...

THE MIZ
Tonight, your local hero returns to show you the future of the WWE. Since I cast away that useless, talentless former partner of mine, John Morrison, I have gone from strength to strength here in the WWE. Last year, I dominated RAW – I was the most dominant United States Champion of all time, I won the ‘Money in the Bank’ contract in July – and now I am ready to step up to the next level and become the WWE Champion.

Miz holds up the briefcase again ...

THE MIZ
Now, I may have this briefcase and I may be able to cash in my contract for a WWE Championship match at any time I choose but I think that there is something more to be said for becoming the WWE Champion for the first time at WrestleMania 27 ... as the Royal Rumble winner. I am the future most must-see WWE Champion of all time and my time has come to deliver at last.

Miz places the briefcase down at his feet and looks back to the camera ...

THE MIZ
Tonight, I have the momentum. I have the hometown advantage. I have the talent. There are many people who would tell you that I am not worthy of being the WWE Champion but tonight I prove them wrong. Tonight, I prove to them all that I will reach the very top of the WWE ... because I’m the Miz ... and I’m ... AAAWWWWWWWEEEESSSSSSSSSSOOMMMMMMMEEE!!!!

More mixed reaction for Miz who smirks once again before heading off the camera and thrusting the microphone back into the chest of Josh Mathews. The camera returns to the ring where Justin Roberts awaits to explain the rules of the Royal Rumble match and the crowd begin to stand and cheer in anticipation ...

JUSTIN ROBERTS
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is now time for the 2011 Royal Rumble Match!

The excitement builds in the arena as the crowd get to their feet ready to find out which man will head to WrestleMania 27 and the main event to challenge for one of the big titles ...

JERRY LAWLER
Oh boy, JR! Here we go!

JUSTIN ROBERTS
Two superstars will start in the ring at the same time and every 90 seconds, a new participant will enter the match. Elimination occurs when a superstar is thrown over the top rope and both feet touch the floor. This will continue until all 30 participants have entered the match. The last remaining superstar will be declared the winner and will earn a championship match ... at WrestleMania!

Huge cheers as the camera focuses in on the WrestleMania 27 logo that is hanging above the ring ...

JIM ROSS
The most exciting match of the year, King, is about to get started!

JERRY LAWLER
Who is going to be first into the match though? Who’s it gonna’ be?

A hush falls over the crowd and attention turns towards the titantron as we await the first man in the Royal Rumble match ...

#1
*** VOICES ***

*** RANDY ORTON ***

The crowd go wild for the arrival of the Viper but there is a subdued, disappointed look on the eyes of Orton as he slowly steps out into the arena – he is clearly unhappy to have drawn number one tonight! He stops in the aisle for a moment and looks around at the crowd ...

JIM ROSS
Awful draw for Randy Orton, King, but if there is one man who can go from Number 1 to win the Rumble tonight, surely it has to be this man?

JERRY LAWLER
This is terrible, JR, I want to see Orton and Cena beat each other’s brains out! If Orton is out first and Cena is out later, we now have less chance of the two of them colliding here tonight!

Orton steps up the steps and through the ropes into the ring where he steps up onto the turnbuckles to salute the fans. He now has a look of determination that he can go on and win this still as he crosses the ring to salute the fans on the other side of the ring as well ... Orton’s music fades out and he stands looking around the arena as an ‘RKO!’ chant goes up to support him before the second participant in the Rumble makes his appearance ...

#2
*** GET DOWN ON YOUR KNEES ***

*** JACK SWAGGER ***

The All American American heads out next to a negative reception and he drops down to do a few push-ups in the aisle before jumping up and the pyro explodes behind him. Swagger is looking confident as he paces towards the ring but his face changes slightly as he locks eyes with Randy Orton who is looking down to him from the ring with a smirk on his face. Swagger waits for the referees to usher Orton back from the ropes to allow Swagger to enter the ring and he bounces on the balls of his feet as he prepares for the bell ...

JIM ROSS
Jack Swagger, the All American American, King. One of a bunch of guys that nobody has mentioned but could be a darkhorse to win tonight?

JERRY LAWLER
If he’d entered in the 20’s, I’d agree with you, JR. But now he is starting out the match, I don’t know if he can make it through the 29 other men.

The referees exit the ring – three of them positioning themselves on different sides – and Swagger and Orton face each other across the ring. The excitement builds again in the crowd as the match is about to begin and the head referee, Mike Chioda, signals for the bell ...

ROYAL RUMBLE MATCH
30 MEN, WINNER GOES TO WRESTLEMANIA 27

Orton and Swagger both step forward towards each other and the All American American is talking trash to Orton who just smirks and smiles at him as he does. Swagger is not amused by Orton though and warns him that he is going to end his Rumble dream before it has even started. There is another loud ‘RKO!’ chant from the crowd here in Cleveland and both Orton and Swagger look around the arena – one impressed, the other in disgust – before Swagger goes for a cheap shot punch to Orton whilst he is off guard. However, Orton sees it coming and blocks before launching his own attack and catching Swagger with right hands that stagger him back towards the ropes. A kick to the mid-section follows and Orton takes a couple of steps back before going for a clothesline. Swagger ducks though as he is about to be quickly eliminated and he heads away from Orton with a look of concern on his face. Orton smirks again as he realises that he has got Swagger’s number early in the contest. Swagger looks angry and he storms over at Orton looking for a clothesline of his own but the Viper dodges him and allows him to hit the ropes before hitting a snap scoop slam that crashes Swagger down to the mat. Swagger arches his back before getting to his feet quickly and walking straight into Orton’s standing drop kick that topples Swagger once more. Fearing a quick elimination, the Oklahoma superstar rolls under the bottom rope and out of the ring to safety as the crowd cheer and applaud Orton’s fast start ...

Orton stands in the centre of the ring as the referees try to force Swagger to re-enter the ring and fight; however, Swagger is taking his time, he is in no rush. Orton dares him to get in the ring but Swagger walks around the outside of the ring instead and he is clearly disrespecting Orton as he does. Eventually, Orton snaps and he goes out through the ropes after Swagger and stalks him around the ring. Swagger steps up the pace to remain out of Orton’s reach and he then rolls back into the ring with the Viper on his heels. As Orton slides back into the ring, Swagger takes his chance and hits the opposite ropes before running to Orton, on his knees, and smashing him hard in the side of the head with his right boot. Another running strike, this time with the knee, follows and Orton is sent spinning to the mat. Swagger now exudes a degree of confidence as he spreads his arms wide as if to challenge the crowd to boo him. They respond with boos and jeers before Swagger returns to Orton and grabs him as he gets to his feet to hit a belly to belly suplex. Orton is down again and this time Swagger pulls him up and grabs him by the back of his neck as he leads him to the ropes and tries to force him over for the first elimination. Swagger has Orton facing down to the floor over the ropes but the Viper has enough left to hit a few elbows to the stomach and he escapes to the corner. Swagger spins round and rushes to Orton in the corner before hitting a corner clothesline that reduces the Viper back to his knees. As Swagger contemplates his next move, the crowd begin to count down to the next entrant in the match ...


*** 5 ***
*** 4 ***
*** 3 ***
*** 2 ***
*** 1 ***

#3

*** SMOKE AND MIRRORS ***

*** CODY RHODES ***

Out comes the cocky Cody Rhodes who looks happy to be heading to the ring right now. He pulls off his jacket and flings it to the floor as he approaches the ring ...

JIM ROSS
Here comes Cody Rhodes, a young man with a bucket load of potential, King ...

JERRY LAWLER
... and a man who used to team with Randy Orton a couple of years ago in Legacy!

Rhodes slides under the bottom rope and heads over towards the fallen Orton ignoring Swagger ...

Swagger watches on as Cody Rhodes begins to kick out at Orton who is forced to cover up. Rhodes appears to be intent on eliminating his former mentor as he continues to beat down on Randy before he is joined by Swagger as well who teams with Rhodes. Rhodes ushers Swagger away as Orton struggles to his feet and then he ducks his head down between Orton’s legs and lifts him up onto his shoulders – Alabama Slam! The back of Orton’s head and shoulders crash down on the mat as Cody steps back admiring his handiwork. Up now steps Jack Swagger who drags Orton to his feet and shoots him off into the ropes before lifting him high and dropping him over the top rope so that it chokes him as he lands on it. Orton bounces off and writhes on the floor clutching his throat near the corner and this allows Swagger chance to run over him and hit a slingshot corner splash where his body crashes down onto Orton. It’s not looking good here for Orton who is being double teamed by these two young WWE superstars and the beating continues as Rhodes takes over again. He lifts himself up onto the middle rope looking for chance to hit a bulldog but Swagger decides to end their brief partnership as he looks to shove Cody off and over the top rope. Rhodes hangs on for his life as he sits on the top buckle and this allows Orton chance to attack Swagger from behind. Rhodes jumps down and scarpers across the ring to safety as Orton takes some revenge on the All American. Ducking underneath a clothesline attempt from Swagger, Orton locks in a headlock and drops to his knees to drive Swagger’s back down over his own. As Orton gets back to his feet, Rhodes attempts to rush him and Orton is able to hit the same backbreaker move to his former protégé before he stands over the pair of them and taking in the cheers of the crowd. However, this is short lived as Swagger creeps up behind him and takes advantage of the ‘No DQ’ rules of the Rumble to hit a vicious low blow that leaves Orton winded and down and out of the mat clutching his crown jewels ...

*** 5 ***
*** 4 ***
*** 3 ***
*** 2 ***
*** 1 ***

#4

*** BREAK THE WALLS DOWN ***

*** CHRIS JERICHO ***

Huge cheers from the crowd as the lights go out and then the familiar countdown signals the return of Jericho. They wait in anticipation for the fireworks and once the lights reappear we see the Chris Jericho that we used to know and love – all sparkles and wavy blonde hair ...

JERRY LAWLER
Y2J is back, JR!

JIM ROSS
Nobody has seen or heard anything of Jericho for three months since he stormed out of the arena after attacking a referee on RAW! It appears he has had a change of attitude in the meantime!

Jericho makes his way towards the ring high fiving the WWE Universe as he does and then he stands outside the ring looking at the three participants in the ring so far. He sees that all three of them are struggling to their feet and laughs before taking off his Y2J vest and tossing it away before heading into the ring ...

Swagger swings a clothesline at Jericho but he ducks underneath it on the run, hits the opposite rope and then smashes him with a running elbow to the side of the head. Swagger stumbles as Cody Rhodes looks to attack Jericho instead and he is hit with a running elbow as well. Jericho hits a drop kick to Swagger that staggers him back through the ropes to the outside and then hits a one handed bulldog on the run to Rhodes as well as the crowd go wild for his return. Jericho celebrates as he jumps up onto the middle rope and beams at the crowd before he drops back down and turns round face to face with the Viper, Randy Orton, who is now back on his feet. With Swagger out of the ring and Rhodes down in the corner, Jericho and Orton look into each other’s eyes, their rivalry set to renew. Jericho grins at Orton who doesn’t seem to know what to make of the returning superstar. As they stand facing each other, there is a buzz around the arena as two chants begin in earnest: an ‘RKO!’ chant and a ‘Y2J!’ chant. Both men look around before renewing their staredown when suddenly Swagger and Rhodes rush them. Swagger collides with Jericho, Rhodes collides with Orton and the fight is back on. As Swagger looks to hit a Gutwrench Powerbomb to Jericho, Rhodes springboards off the ropes and looks for the Beautiful Disaster kick to Orton. Orton ducks the kick though and he looks to toss Rhodes over the top rope but he hangs on desperately instead. Swagger’s attempted powerbomb fails as Jericho manages to escape over the All American American’s head and he then springboards off the ropes into a dropkick. With Jericho trying to force Swagger over the top rope and Orton doing the same with Cody Rhodes, the crowd begin to chant as another superstar is about to make his entrance into the Rumble ...

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#5

*** COOL ***

*** CARLITO ***

Huge cheers again from the WWE Universe as another superstar makes his return to the ring, this time the Puerto Rican, Carlito. He saunters out looking confident whilst tossing an apple up and down in his right hand ...

JERRY LAWLER
Carlito?!!!

JIM ROSS
Carlito is back in the WWE, King! And he joins the Rumble at Number 5!

JERRY LAWLER
This is a surprise, JR, this man could easily cause an upset tonight here in the Rumble!

Carlito heads for the ring and takes a bite out of his apple and slaps hands with some of the WWE Universe as he approaches the ring ...

As Carlito steps up onto the ring apron, Swagger – who has escaped from Jericho with a few well placed elbows – approaches him. Swagger dares him to get into the ring and Carlito smirks at him confidently. Swagger throws a punch but Carlito ducks and then spits apple chunks into his face to the delight of the fans. The Puerto Rican steps through the ropes and goes on the attack with a spinning neckbreaker that plants Swagger down on the mat. He then springboards off the ropes and hits a rolling Senton bomb to Swagger before rolling through and springboarding off the opposite rope to hit it again ... However, Jericho is back in place now and he hits a clothesline to Carlito as he comes off the ropes instead! There are some boos for Y2J for this but it is every man for himself here in the Rumble! Rhodes goes on the attack next – he has managed to escape from Orton who is down on the mat - and he starts pounding away to the back of Jericho who is caught unaware. Cody chokes Jericho over the middle rope and the referees protest but there is nothing they can do about it. Over the other side of the ring, Swagger and Carlito have resumed their battle as they try to gain control and oust each other out of the ring. As Jericho struggles back to his feet, Rhodes springs off the middle rope and connects – CODY RHODES HITS THE BEAUTIFUL DISASTER TO JERICHO! Rhodes gets back to his feet with a huge grin on his face but that grins is quickly wiped off as Orton is waiting ...

Randy Orton clotheslines Cody Rhodes up and over the top rope and he hits the ground and the barricades hard!
– CODY RHODES HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Cheers for Orton as he looks down on the outraged Rhodes who slams his hands against the barricade in anger. He looks up at his former mentor and mutters as he is shepherded away by the referee towards the aisle. With Orton still in the ring with Carlito, Jericho and Swagger, he turns his attention towards the fallen Jericho and drags him up hoping to eliminate him next. However, Jericho has recovered from the Beautiful Disaster kick and he catches Orton by surprise with shove away before hitting a one handed bulldog that drives Orton face first into the mat. With Orton rolling over, Jericho has chance to go for a Lionsault but the Viper moves away and Y2J lands on his feet instead and catches him with a clothesline. Swagger has escaped Carlito and he sneaks up behind Jericho and catches him with a German Suplex that crashes him down to the mat on his back. With no pinfall, Swagger releases his grip on Jericho and decides to stomp away at the upper body of Y2J over and over forcing Jericho to cover up and retreat to the corner of the ring. Carlito decides to go after Orton and he starts pounding away at the Viper in the opposite corner as the crowd count down for the sixth entrant into the match ...

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#6

*** ONE OF A KIND ***

*** ROB VAN DAM ***

Explosions of pyro signal the arrival of the cocky Rob Van Dam who heads out smirking and lifts his hands to show off himself as the crowd chant along “R – V – D!” with him. He begins to run towards the ring eager to begin ...

JIM ROSS
Entrant number 6, King, Rob Van Dam!

JERRY LAWLER
The ring is filling up with some serious talent already, JR!

As RVD slides into the ring he stands in the centre and looks to both corners where the fights are ongoing and then he smiles and again points to himself with his thumbs as the crowd chant along ...

As RVD looks around to get into the action, the crowd chant ‘RVD! RVD!’ which yet again causes a grin from the Battle Creek, Michigan superstar. In the end, RVD goes after Orton who is trading punches with Carlito near the ropes. RVD springboards off the ropes and he hits a side kick to the Viper who slumps down in the corner of the ring. However, RVD doesn’t team with Carlito to try and eliminate Orton – he attacks the Puerto Rican instead. A windmill kick to the gut followed by a spin kick catches Carlito unawares and trips him up allowing RVD to hit the ropes and handstand over to splash down onto his chest. In the other corner, Swagger and Jericho split as the All American American fails to eliminate Y2J and Swagger heads over towards RVD now instead. Van Dam ducks under the swinging fist of Swagger and hits the ropes before attempting a spinning wheel kick. However, Swagger ducks under his feet and responds with a belly to belly suplex. Swagger looks impressed with himself as he gets back to his feet and shows off but this allows Jericho to attack ... CODEBREAKER! JERICHO HITS SWAGGER WITH THE CODEBREAKER! RVD stumbles back to his feet and sees Swagger down and out on the mat and the crowd cheer as a look passes his eyes. They know where he is heading and he leaps to the top rope ready for the Five Star Frog Splash! However, Jericho has other ideas and he pushes RVD’s legs from under him. RVD’s feet split the top turnbuckle and he lands painfully over it wincing as he tries to recover. Jericho senses a chance and he begins to try and push RVD from the top rope and out of the ring to eliminate him quickly. However, RVD holds on and Jericho is unable to eliminate him yet. Swagger, Orton and Carlito are back on their feet and they are trading blows between them now. Orton hits a short arm elbow to Carlito and then the same to Swagger as he gets on top before he drags Carlito through the ropes for a DDT. As Carlito’s face is planted into the mat, Orton is now on fire and he prepares to hit an RKO to Carlito. However, Swagger drops an elbow across Orton’s back and catches him by surprise. The crowd begin to chant once more, entrant number seven is on the way ...

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#7

*** AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE ***

*** JOHN MORRISON ***

A slo-mo entrance for Morrison as he heads out wearing his usual shades and long coat pairing to a decent reaction from the crowd here in Cleveland. He approaches the ring with a look of confidence on his face ...

JIM ROSS
Number 7, John Morrison, King! A man who has had a few issues with Mr. Jericho in the past!

JERRY LAWLER
But not this Chris Jericho, JR!

Morrison hands his shades to a fan at ringside before throwing his coat to a referee and sliding into the ring. He looks towards Jericho as soon as he gets to his feet and the pair opf them lock eyes – there is still a lot of tension between them clearly. Jericho holds out a hand, he seems to be apologising for his behaviour before he left the WWE a few months ago ...

Morrison reaches out and grasps Jericho’s hand for a handshake but then pulls him towards him and clotheslines him hard down to the mat. Morrison holds out his hands as if to say that Jericho deserved that and he leaves Y2J down on the mat and heads after RVD who is still holding his groin after the fall on the top turnbuckle moments ago. Morrison drags RVD to his feet and he hits a standing drop kick that knocks him down to the mat off the ropes. Morrison positions RVD in the corner, sat back against the buckles and then hits a running knee strike in the corner that leaves RVD groggy. Van Dam is struggling here and hasn’t recovered from his fall and this gives Morrison the perfect chance to set up for his big finish move. Morrison stands in the corner and looks out around the arena ... STARSHIP PAIN! MORRISON CRASHES DOWN ONTO RVD! RVD is in real trouble now, gasping for air on the mat as Morrison looks to drag him up again. Morrison pushes RVD over the top rope and RVD tries to fight desperately to retain his place in the Rumble. He is hanging on to the ropes as Morrison tries to lever him over the ropes and down but RVD refuses. Carlito heads over to join Morrison and the pair of them begin to work on RVD who is helpless now against two men. RVD goes over the top rope and lands on the apron, if he falls he is out. Morrison is about to deliver the final blow ...

Carlito shoves Morrison aside and hits a standing drop kick that knocks RVD down to the mat!
– RVD HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


RVD falls on the floor and he lies down still struggling after his recent skirmishes with Morrison and Jericho. Carlito smiles to RVD from the ring and tells RVD “Ju’d have done the same thing to me, man!” before turning back to the ring where Morrison is back on his feet. Morrison isn’t happy with Carlito shoving him aside though and he shoves Carlito hard in the chest. Morrison forces Carlito back into the corner as he hits forearms to the face of the Puerto Rican and he pounds away angry with him. However, Jericho sneaks up on Morrison and lifts his leg off the mat ...

Jericho tosses Morrison over the top rope and out of the ring!
– JOHN MORRISON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Morrison was caught completely unaware and he looks unhappy as he turns around in shock to see a grinning Chris Jericho staring down to him. Jericho, Carlito, Orton and Swagger are still in the ring and the match continues without Morrison and RVD who are both hobbling back down the aisle towards the backstage area after their eliminations. Jericho and Carlito pair off in one corner, Orton and Swagger in the opposite corner and it is Swagger who takes the advantage there. Ramming Orton’s head into the turnbuckle several times, Swagger clotheslines the Number 1 entrant and knocks him down to the mat before springboarding off the corner ropes and hitting the Swagger Corner Splash not once, not twice but three times to the dismay of the WWE Universe. With Carlito and Jericho preoccupied with each other, Swagger beckons for Orton to get to his feet as the crowd countdown to the next wrestler to enter the match ...

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#8

*** LONGHORN ***

*** JOHN BRADSHAW LAYFIELD ***

Huge boos erupt around the arena as we get another surprise entry into the Royal Rumble as the NXT mentor, John Bradshaw Layfield, JBL for short, heads out waving his cowboy hat and grinning inanely. He is dressed to compete in his black trunks and with a towel around his neck and he slowly makes his way to the ring as he proclaims his greatness to the people at ringside ...

JERRY LAWLER
JBL! John Bradshaw Layfield in the Rumble, JR?

JIM ROSS
We haven’t seen JBL in PPV action since WrestleMania 25, King, maybe he is here tonight to show his NXT team just how to get the job done!

JBL shakes hands, disingenuously, with many members of the WWE Universe as he makes his way all the way around the ring. Some people would consider that JBL is wasting time, others would believe that he truly appreciates the support of the fans here in the WWE in Cleveland, Ohio, tonight.

Swagger and Carlito are now trading blows in the ring after the Caribbean stopped Swagger from continuing his attack on Orton just before JBL’s entrance. With Orton down in the corner, JBL slides into the ring and he looks delighted to see that he has no challenger – until Y2J Chris Jericho comes into his view from the other corner. JBL talks trash to Jericho who is tonight receiving cheers from the WWE Universe with his apparent change of attitude but Jericho refuses to get into a verbal contest and swings for the face of the New York businessman. JBL covers up as Jericho forces him back pounding away at him but then Jericho swings for a clothesline that JBL ducks underneath. An Atomic Drop from JBL to Jericho leaves him struggling and JBL hits the ropes before hitting a devastating CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL that turns Jericho inside out and causes the crowd to release an astonished gasp at the ferocity behind it. JBL taunts them and brags about laying out their favourite but then the crowd get to their feet as Orton sneaks up behind him ... Orton goes for the RKO but JBL shoves him away – another CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL FROM JBL! This time, Orton is left in a crumpled heap on the mat and yet again, JBL looks incredibly impressed with himself and he even now signals that he is going to be the next champion. JBL surveys the situation now before rushing over at Carlito and Swagger in the corner. Carlito ducks out of the way but JBL smashes a huge boot into the face of Swagger that leaves him reduced to his knees in the corner – he decides instead to roll out of the ring to safety. Carlito responds to JBL’s attempted boot to the face by firing right hands at him and he catches JBL several times before going for the Backstabber. Unfortunately, JBL holds the ropes and Carlito cannot hit the move ... BAM! CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL AGAIN AS CARLITO GETS UP!

JBL has single-handedly decimated the opposition here in the Royal Rumble within a minute of his return. The crowd boo and jeer but they surely can’t help but be impressed with this return, JBL looks like he has never been away. JBL summons for a microphone which he is handed by the timekeeper. As he passes Jericho and Orton, he drives the microphone into the tops of their heads as they attempt to make their way back up, both men crashing back down clutching their heads in pain ...


JBL
Just like I have been telling all of you and all of the competitors on NXT, I am now proving that I am a ‘Wrestling Gawd’ – I demand your respect and admiration!

The crowd are not going to do that! They boo him incessantly ...

JBL
Typical Cleveland, the city that has no sporting icons of its own so it boos and jeers the winners instead ...

The crowd are getting real hot now with JBL as he insults their city ...

JBL
Look at the ring! In one minute, I have taken out Chris Jericho, Randy Orton, Jack Swagger and Carlito. I’ve been gone for three years but I come back as if I’ve never been away! And now, I’m going to win the Royal Rumble and make my journey back to the main event of WrestleMania!

JBL climbs to the middle rope and continues to brag about himself as the crowd begin to chant the countdown again ...

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#9

*** WRECK ***

*** MICK FOLEY ***

Huge ovation from the WWE Universe as yet another surprise entrant heads out towards the ring – this time the SMACKDOWN colour commentator, Mick Foley! He heads out with a huge grin on his face and with his arm in the air and the crowd cheer him wildly as he makes his way towards the ring where JBL is staring down at him with a smirk on his face ...

JIM ROSS
The WWE Hall of Famer, the Hardcore Legend is back in action, King!

JERRY LAWLER
SMACKDOWN commentator Mick Foley! Will he be able to shut JBL up?

As Foley steps through the ropes into the ring, JBL launches the attack immediately as he tries to catch Foley unaware with a kick to the side of the head that spins Foley round. JBL drops to his knees and begins to pound and pound away at the man who was once known as the ‘Hardcore Legend’ and is a bona-fide WWE hall of famer. Pummelling away, JBL has a look of anger on his face that suggests he is unhappy with Foley taking the spotlight away from him. Foley is trying to fight back but JBL continues to pound his right hand down into Foley over and over. A loud ‘Foley! Foley!’ chant goes up to try and inspire him but he is unable to get away from JBL until Randy Orton makes his way over and kicks JBL in revenge for the microphone shot before. With Jericho now joining him, Orton drags JBL over to the corner and they launch an assault to the delight of the Cleveland crowd. Orton and Jericho are hammering away at JBL whilst Swagger and Carlito have resumed their fight in the corner, Foley is recovering from his beating from JBL. Jericho and Orton take it in turns to hammer at JBL before Jericho decides to try and eliminate the New Yorker over the top rope. Orton wants the glory for himself and he starts to fight with Jericho now as well and they leave JBL alone in the corner to recover as they fight.

With Jericho and Orton fighting, Swagger – who has got on top in his battle with Carlito – decides to go after the WWE Legend that is Mick Foley instead. He drags Foley up from the mat and starts to swing punches at him but the Long Island veteran is able to counter with forearm smashes of his own that stagger Swagger backwards. The crowd get behind Foley as he kicks Swagger in the midriff and then underhooks his arms before hitting a DOUBLE ARM UNDERHOOK DDT that crashes Swagger’s face down hard into the mat. The crowd roar with approval as Foley reaches down into his sweatpants and pulls out Mr. Socko! There is a huge cheer from the crowd as he places the sock over his right hand and then he stalks Swagger preparing ... MANDIBLE CLAW! FOLEY HOOKS IN THE MANDIBLE CLAW ON SWAGGER! As Foley forces Swagger back towards the ropes, his claw jammed in the gullet of the All American American, the crowd anticipate that he is about to be eliminated. Swagger is pushed against the ropes and he teeters on the brink of elimination ... However, JBL is back on his feet and he looks over at Swagger and Foley’s battle with interest.


JBL rushes over and hits the Clothesline from Hell to an unsuspecting Foley which knocks him up and over the top rope!
– MICK FOLEY HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


The crowd groan in disappointment as Foley tumbles down to the floor and lands with a thud whilst Swagger is able to drop down to the mat clutching at his throat from the Mandible Claw. JBL beams around at the arena who jeer him but he isn’t bothered as he holds his hand up with delight at eliminating Mick Foley from the match. Foley tries to get back into the ring to get at JBL but he is held back by two referees who manage to restrain him and convince him to head back to the backstage. JBL is distracted by Carlito who surprises him with an attack from the side but JBL is able to shove him away and is then able to poke him in the eye. With no recourse from the referee for his actions, JBL waits for Carlito to spin back round and then lifts him up for a powerbomb that crashes the Caribbean down hard onto the mat. Carlito rolls away is distress as JBL again boasts to the crowd who are desperate to see JBl get some as the count down to the next entrant ...

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#10

*** IF YA SMELL WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN’ ***

*** THE ROCK ***

The crowd go wild as the familiar music of the other NXT mentor blasts out and JBL freezes in terror in the ring. Pacing out looking determined, Rock heads towards the ring, a word of encouragement from Foley as he passes him, and his eyes are locked on JBL in the ring. As JBL holds up his hands to plead for respite from Rock, he nears the ring and is clearly ready to kick the businessman’s ass here tonight in the Rumble!

JIM ROSS
Here is a man, King, who can never be counted out of the championship hunt whenever he is around in the WWE, a man who has main evented WrestleMania on four occasions and held the WWE Championship on nine different occasions during his time. He makes his return to the ring tonight to compete for the first time in seven years!

JERRY LAWLER
Oh my God, JR, The Rock is back in action!

The Rock enters the ring up the steps and through the ropes and he stands face to face with JBL as the electricity fizzes around the arena and a huge chant of ‘Rocky! Rocky!’ echoes around the arena. JBL has fear in his eyes but he stands his ground as Rock approaches him.

The Rock is talking trash, as only he can, to JBL as he stands face to face, the chant continuing and Rock ready for action. He waits for JBL to make the first move and then ducks the clothesline as it comes at him. Rock kicks JBL in the stomach and hits a DDT to the delight of the crowd who love seeing Rock dominating JBL here. Swagger tries to make a name for himself as he attacks Rock but he is lifted up high into a Spinebuster and crashed down hard onto his back in the middle of the ring. Excitement builds as Rock stands over a fallen Swagger and it appears to be time for a People’s Elbow. However, JBL is back to his feet and he goes for a Big Boot to Rock as he prepares. Rock ducks again and locks JBL up ... ROCK BOTTOM! ROCK HITS JBL WITH A ROCK BOTTOM! This allows Swagger time to escape the ring and he rolls away out of the ring again whilst Rock stands over JBL with a look of excitement in his eyes. Rock surveys the crowd and then sets himself up for his big finishing move. He throws an elbow pad into the crowd before running to the ropes. Off one rope, a jump over JBL ... RKO! RANDY ORTON WITH THE RKO TO THE ROCK!

The crowd are stood in shock!

Orton stands over Rock who is down on the mat and clutching his neck – it seems that the ‘Legend Killer’ has made a one night return! Orton looks around and there are a few boos from the WWE Universe although most realise it for what it is, Orton just wanting to make a stand in the Rumble. JBL slowly gets to his knees and looks at Orton and a smile appears on his face. He motions to Orton that they should team up and the Viper appears to be considering his offer. He helps JBL up to his feet and then goes to shake hands with Layfield who has a huge smirk on his face now. There is baited breath around the arena as people begin to worry that Orton might be serious here – and then suddenly, Orton levels JBL with a right hand. Orton whips JBL into the ropes and hits a snap powerslam to the self-proclaimed ‘Wrestling God’ as he comes off the ropes. Orton begins to stalk behind JBL ready to strike, coiled, on his knees, waiting for his chance ... RKO TO JBL! ORTON HITS THE RKO TO JBL! Orton drags JBL to his feet and starts to try and push him over the top rope but JBL begins to resist a little. He starts to hit a few reverse elbows as he fights back against Orton and he manages to knock Orton down to his knees and starts to move away from the ropes. JBL looks impressed with himself as he turns around ...


The Rock rushes over and clotheslines JBL over the top rope!
– JBL HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


The WWE Universe cheer as Rock eliminates JBL and the New York businessman looks up at Rock in shock that he just eliminated him. However, Rocky does not dwell on eliminating JBL and he goes after Orton, the man who just hit him with the RKO. Orton and Rock go at it in a sort of ‘dream match’ for the WWE Universe who roar both men on. Jericho, Carlito and Swagger are also back in the ring and Swagger and Carlito are now teaming up to try and take out the dangerous Jericho over in the corner although most of the attention is on the Orton/Rock fight. Rock attempts to hit a Rock Bottom but Orton fights out with elbows before hitting a drop kick that knocks Rock out through the middle ropes to the outside. The referee is quick to signal that Rock is not eliminated as he has not been thrown over the top rope but Rock is quick to scramble back through the ropes into the ring. Orton hits a kick to stun him as he comes through the ropes and then drags the Hall of Famer into the ring so he is hanging on the middle rope ... DDT! Orton plants Rock face first into the mat as the crowd begin the countdown to the next entrant into the Rumble ...

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#11

*** AWESOME – I CAME TO PLAY ***

*** THE MIZ ***

Despite the usual reaction that Miz induces, there is a huge cheer from the WWE Universe as their hometown hero heads out into the arena. Despite the cheers, Miz strides out with a smirk on his face and he raises his hands in his usual cocky, arrogant way before starting to make his way towards the ring determined to win the Rumble and earn himself a place in the WrestleMania main event ...

JERRY LAWLER
Here he comes, JR! The Miz, the self proclaimed ‘awesome’ one!

JIM ROSS
Hometown advantage for the Miz, King. Can he win the Royal Rumble tonight?

Miz slides into the ring after depositing his jacket with one of the referees and he stands looking around as he takes in the situation and begins to decide who and where he will go after first of all.

Six men are now in the ring – entrant number 11, Miz, The Rock, Randy Orton, Carlito, Jack Swagger and Chris Jericho. With Orton’s attention on The Rock, it is Carlito who leaves Swagger with Jericho and heads over to Miz running. Miz sees him coming and he ducks the attack before a slugfest begins between the pair of them. Miz reverse whips Carlito to the corner before running in afterwards to hit a jumping clothesline in the corner, his feet through the ropes as he jumps for extra momentum. A backbreaker-neckbreaker combination follows from Miz as he looks to get off to a fast start in the Rumble to the cheers of many of his fellow Ohioans. With Carlito struggling, Miz looks to take advantage and he stalks up behind him ... SKULL CRUSHING FINALE! MIZ HITS THE SKULL CRUSHING FINALE TO CARLITO! More cheers for Miz as he hits his big move and he looks round with a cocky look on his face. He looks determined as he drags Carlito up and glances towards the ropes. Running with Carlito held by the back of his head, Miz runs towards the ropes with his opponent.

Miz throws Carlito up and over the top rope and out of the Rumble!
– CARLITO HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Cheers for Miz, boos for Miz – a truly mixed reception! Carlito is down on the outside after hitting his head hard on the announce table after his elimination at the hands of Miz. Miz looks well impressed with himself as he takes in the adulation or the jeers of the WWE Universe. Miz looks down on Carlito as he clutches his lower back before turning to go after Chris Jericho next. Jericho and Miz begin to fight and Miz manages to get on top in this battle as well as he uses a drop toe hold before slapping the head of Y2J in a disrespectful fashion. Jericho gets to his feet in anger and ducks Miz’ clothesline before hitting a back suplex to the MITB contract holder that crashes him down hard on his back, the first time Miz has suffered in the match. Swagger attacks Jericho with a running forearm before continuing on to attack Orton who has just broken free of Rock in the corner. Swagger begins to try and oust Rock out of the ring in the corner as he props the Great One’s leg up over the top rope and sets about trying to lift Rock up and over. Orton gets to his knees and starts a fist-fight with Miz but a kick to the side of his head from Jericho stops him building momentum again. Jericho then comes off the ropes, grabs the Miz by the head and hits a running bulldog that crashes Miz’ face down into the mat. Jericho then springboards off the rope ... LIONSAULT TO MIZ! WALLS OF JERICHO! Chris Jericho has the Walls of Jericho locked in to Miz and the crowd – despite still being split – become excited as another exit could well be on the cards shortly after Carlito’s. With Miz tapping out, Jericho – realising that he cannot win via a submission – releases the hold and drags Miz up as he clutches his lower back. Jericho forces Miz over the top rope and it appears that he is about to be eliminated when Orton rushes Jericho and clotheslines him up and over the top rope ...

However, Jericho is able to hang on to the top rope and he manages to stay in the Rumble as Miz and Orton begin to battle once again. Fortunately for Jericho here, the other four men are paired off and he has chance to recover and then step back through the ropes into the ring. The referees are signalling that Jericho is still in the contest as the countdown to the next entrant begins ...


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#12

*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***

*** CHRISTIAN ***

Still looking very shaky and groggy from his battle with CM Punk earlier in the night, Christian heads out into the arena ready to compete in the Rumble. As he hobbles slightly as he nears the ring, Christian signals to the WWE Universe that he is here to earn another title match with his hands to his waist.

JIM ROSS
After a gruelling battle earlier tonight against CM Punk, here comes Christian to try and earn his spot at WrestleMania 27! But King, is this a good idea or not?

JERRY LAWLER
I don’t know, JR, Christian hobbled out of this arena just half an hour ago after passing out in the Anaconda Vice. Is he in a fit state to enter the Rumble?

As if to answer King’s question, there are two medics following Christian as he heads to the ring and one of them appears to be trying to make Christian reconsider his entry into the Rumble. Christian ignores the advice though and he shakes off the medics and slides under the bottom rope into the ring ...

As Christian rolls into the ring, Jericho hangs back and looks to be questioning whether or not he should go after the man who earlier challenged for the World Championship. Christian gets to his feet and looks at Jericho before going after him with several right hands that stagger Jericho backwards in shock. However, Christian is not right here and still appears groggy as the punches aren’t hitting Jericho with the usual sting and eventually Y2J is able to shove Christian aside before delivering a dropkick that crashes him down. The medics are trying to inform the referee that Christian is not fit to compete but there is little they can do now that Christian is in the match. Orton goes to stomp on the exposed limbs of Christian next as the guys in the match sense a weakness but Y2J, concerned for Christian, tries to convince Orton to leave him as he points out the medics. Orton misunderstands and he starts to deliver right hands to Jericho now which leaves Christian recovering against the ropes. He slowly pulls himself up using the ropes when all of a sudden ...

... Christian is dropkicked by Miz over the top rope and eliminated!
– CHRISTIAN HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Another quick elimination from Miz who has now taken out two of the competitors since he arrived in the contest just a few moments ago. He looks very pleased with himself but he then turns around and comes face to face with Rock! As the medics help Christian away from the ring, Rock begins to unload on Miz who drops down and decides to run for cover as he exits the ring instead. Rock hotfoots after him and follows him around the ring. When Miz dashes back into the ring, Rock follows and he is met by a vicious clothesline from Swagger who catches him completely unaware. Swagger locks his hands around Rock’s waist and hits a perfect German Suplex that crashes Rock’s shoulders down onto the mat before he gets up to his feet and signals for the Ankle Lock. Swagger lifts Rock’s leg and he attempts to lock in the hold but Rock twists and mule kicks his way out before meeting Swagger as he comes back off the ropes with a Samoan Drop! The crowd roar every big move that Rock is performing and particularly when he goes after someone like Swagger! As Rock and Swagger fight it out in the centre of the ring, Orton and Jericho continue their feud in the corner whilst Miz stays out of the way recovering from his near escape from Rock. The ‘Great One’ has the upper hand over Swagger but the All American American – who started the Rumble match – is able to use his amateur background to prevent himself from being placed in a situation where he could be eliminated. Coupled with a few questionable moves, Swagger has survived over 15 minutes already and he uses a rake of the eyes to stun Rock once more before hitting another suplex that crashes Rock back onto the mat. Swagger locks in the Ankle Lock and Rock writhes in pain this time, unable to escape. He is forced to head for the ropes and look for a break but there is no DQ in the Rumble and Swagger relentlessly holds on. Screwing his face up in pain, Rock pulls himself through the ropes and manages to create some leverage to escape before falling to the floor to leave Swagger frustrated. As Swagger turns, he walks straight into Jericho ... CODEBREAKER! JERICHO HITS SWAGGER WITH THE CODEBREAKER! However, Jericho is struggling after his battles so far and he falls to his knees for some recovery time. Orton is also propped in the corner and the only man looking fresh is Cleveland’s own Miz. He stands surveying the situation as the crowd count down to the next entrant, some hoping it is somebody to go after the Miz ...

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#13

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** DAVID OTUNGA ***

Wearing his black and yellow Nexus t-shirt, out heads David Otunga, the A-Lister, married to Jennifer Hudson, for his first ever Royal Rumble appearance. He looks confident as he heads towards the ring and he takes his time as the crowd jeer him ...

JERRY LAWLER
Oh no! Not the Nexus!

JIM ROSS
Four of the Nexus are scheduled to compete in the Royal Rumble tonight, King, here is the first of them!

Otunga steps through the ropes and removes his shirt which he tosses to the outside as he is ready to begin ...

Spotting The Rock sliding back into the ring, Otunga decides to try and make a name for himself and he goes after Rocky who he stomp kicks hard in the chest and the back. Rock struggles to avoid the boot of Otunga and he tries to slither clear as the boots continue to rain down on him. Miz has now gone to work on the Viper in the corner and is delivering right hands and trying to lift him over the top rope but is unable to manoeuvre him enough to get into a position for elimination. Swagger and Jericho have also resumed their rivalry and it is Y2J who – after his Codebreaker moments ago – has the upper hand over the All American. With the six men in the Rumble paired off, the crowd are able to take a short breather as the action takes a lull for a second and the six men involved go through some of the Rumble motions of battling it out and trying to eliminate each other but not really looking dangerous. Otunga continues to beat down on Rock and he has now stepped back and is waiting for Rock to get to his feet whilst he poses cockily, winding his right arm up, ready to strike. As Rock pulls himself up in the corner, Otunga looks to strike but Rock has far too much experience and he ducks before slapping the taste out of Otunga’s mouth and launching a beating on the Nexus member. A stunned Otunga tries to cover up and tries to escape but Rock is laying the smackdown here, he is handing Otunga an ass kicking. Rock whips Otunga into the ropes and then hits another Samoan Drop that crashes the Nexus man down on his back before Rock steps back and waits to pounce ... Up stagger Otunga ... ROCK BOTTOM! OTUNGA IS HIT WITH THE ROCK BOTTOM! The crowd are loving it as Rock stands over the fallen Otunga and he reaches down to pull him back up. He holds Otunga by the neck but the A-Lister tries to shove Rocky away ... Is Rock about to eliminate David Otunga?

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#14

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** EZEKIEL JACKSON ***

Loud boos from the WWE Universe as a second member of Nexus rushes out to enter the Rumble!

JIM ROSS
Ezekiel Jackson! Could he be the saviour of David Otunga here?

JERRY LAWLER
He’d better be quick, JR!

Keeping his t-shirt on, Big Zeke is quick and he slides into the ring just in time to rescue Otunga as he distracts Rock ...

However, Rock spots Zeke coming and he catches him with a right hand before going to work on a second Nexus member, throwing right hands at him and stunning him. Jackson staggers round ... ROCK BOTTOM! ANOTHER ROCK BOTTOM, THIS TIME TO EZEKIEL JACKSON! Rock is completely owning the Nexus here tonight! Rock stands over Jackson and looks around at the crowd who appear to be demanding it ... Is it time? Yes, it is! Rock sets himself for the People’s Elbow! With the crowd going bananas, Rock hits one rope, then the other, prepares to deliver the elbow drop ... LOW BLOW! David Otunga catches Rock with a vicious low blow, there is no disqualification! Jericho looks to break off from Miz and he confronts Otunga. Otunga shoves Y2J away and this fuels his anger, Jericho responding with a heavy right hand. Otunga is shocked and Jericho goes after him but Ezekiel Jackson now rescues him again and pulls Jericho round before hitting a huge clothesline that drops Jericho. Here comes Orton! RKO! RKO TO EZEKIEL JACKSON! The crowd roar as Orton steps over the body of Jackson, past the struggling Jericho and Rock, advancing towards David Otunga who looks petrified here. Orton is grinning maniacally as Otunga steps back, his back against the ropes, the crowd sense that the end is near for Otunga ... BAM! The crowd tried to warn Orton but too late! Miz – steel chair in hand – stands over Orton as he slumps down on the mat after taking a huge chair shot into the back. Boos and jeers for Miz from his hometown crowd, despite a few cheers remaining, he smirks as he holds the chair high. Miz looks down as Rock is trying to get back up ... BAM! Another chair shot to the back, this time Rock is taken down and he grabs his back in pain. Otunga points out Jericho to Miz and the Money in the Bank contract holder smirks as he looks down at Y2J. Miz changes his grip on the chair and waits for Jericho to get to his feet before jamming it hard into the stomach of Jericho ... and then ... BAM! Another shot to the back, this time for Jericho, Miz throws the chair down and out of the ring with a huge grin on his face as the jeers multiply. Otunga helps Jackson up and explains things to him, Jackson nods his head towards Miz and there appears to be an alliance forming between Miz and the two members of the Nexus in the ring ... As the crowd begin to chant down for the next entrant, Swagger also staggers into the mix and it looks as if he is accepted by Miz and Nexus as part of their crew ...

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#15

*** AFRICA RISING ***

*** JUSTIN GABRIEL ***

A worried looking Justin Gabriel heads out as we reach the halfway point of the Royal Rumble with the South African. Checking his wrist tape, Gabriel walks towards the ring where his former Nexus team-mates Otunga and Ezekiel Jackson as well as Miz and Swagger are watching him ...

JERRY LAWLER
This does not look good for Justin Gabriel, JR!

JIM ROSS
Gabriel might be the United States Champion, King, but he left the Nexus under a cloud and he might be about to regret it!

Gabriel unhooks the US Championship from around his waist and he hands it to a referee as he looks up into the ring at the pack of wolves waiting ...

Rock is stirring near the ropes and is pulling himself up but Otunga notices and he runs over and hits a kick to the side of the head which sends Rock down to the outside again – no elimination though. Jericho is already down on the outside of the ring after the chair shots and Gabriel steps around him as he looks to find a way in. Miz breaks away from the group next as he spots Orton getting up and he locks him up ... SKULL CRUSHING FINALE! MIZ HITS THE SKULL CRUSHING FINALE TO ORTON! Any potential friend of Gabriel is now down and out and the South African steels himself up, realising that he has no choice, this is what the Royal Rumble is all about. He slides into the ring and it is Swagger that attacks him as he does. Kicks to the back and knees to the stomach, Swagger drags Gabriel to the corner and hits a series of right hands to the gut as Otunga, Jackson and Miz watch on. Gabriel is down on the mat and Swagger steps back before hitting the Swagger Splash in the corner that leaves Gabriel gasping for air. Grinning, Swagger drags Gabriel up and positions him near the ropes. He smiles to Miz and Nexus before attempting to eliminate Gabriel when, suddenly, Otunga and Jackson attack the All American instead. Pummelling Swagger unexpectantly, they drive him to the corner where Jackson shoulders him hard in the midriff. Miz looks on in surprise but Nexus appear to have an issue with Swagger here and he has no intention of getting involved. Jackson, aided by Otunga, lifts Swagger onto his shoulders ... TORTURE RACK! Swagger is being wrenched around the huge shoulders of Big Zeke and he begins to tap out – unfortunately for Swagger, submission does not count in the Rumble! Jackson, realising that Swagger is toast, walks to the ropes ...

Jackson drops Swagger from his shoulders and out of the ring!
– JACK SWAGGER HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


There is an air of confusion around the arena as Jackson and Otunga high five each other, they are clearly happy that they eliminated Swagger. But why? Otunga now heads over to Gabriel and helps him to his feet and it is clear that the young South African is just as shocked. A questioning look on his face, Otunga and Jackson step back from Gabriel and they point to the Nexus bands on their biceps and it all becomes a little clearer. They were helping Gabriel out because he used to be in the Nexus. Gabriel looks annoyed and he points to the Nexus logo and clearly tells them he isn’t interested. The conversations are interrupted though by the returns of Randy Orton and Chris Jericho who go after the two Nexus members – Miz has strangely disappeared out of the way and is walking around the outside. Orton and Jericho have revenge in mind as they take Jackson and Otunga individually and begin to get the upper hand. As Jericho beats down on Otunga in the corner, Miz causes a distraction and yet again, Otunga takes a cheap shot as he rakes the eyes of Jericho before kicking at his knees to send Jericho down.

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#16

*** LIVE FOR THE MOMENT ***

*** MATT HARDY ***

A great ovation for the ever popular Matt Hardy who comes out looking fired up and ready to go after his reunion with his brother Jeff last Friday on SMACKDOWN ...

JIM ROSS
You can never ever count this man out, King!

JERRY LAWLER
Matt Hardy has always claimed that he is living his dream here in the WWE! Tonight, can he take the first step towards living his ultimate WWE dream and becoming the champion at WrestleMania?

Matt slides into the ring as Otunga moves away from Jericho and the WWE Universe cheer as Matt creeps behind the A-Lister ready to strike ... TWIST OF FATE! Otunga never saw it coming and the crowd go wild with excitement! A ‘Hardy! Hardy!’ chant goes up as Matt drags Otunga back up and runs him towards the ropes ...

Hardy tosses Otunga up and over, he sails over the ropes!
– DAVID OTUNGA HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


An excited Matt Hardy jumps up on the middle turnbuckle and he strikes a Hardy pose as the crowd go wild for the elimination of one of the Nexus members. However, Hardy does not see Miz sneaking up behind him. The ‘Awesome’ one appears to be trying to be incredibly opportunist this evening and he tries to rush Hardy and knock him down to eliminate him. Hardy is shocked and topples over but he grasps the top rope tightly as the WWE Universe will him to hang in there. Miz desperately tries to shove Hardy over and out and it looks as if Hardy is heading out. As he teeters on the apron, Hardy suddenly manages to hit a shoulder through the ropes to Miz’ midriff and then manages to scramble through back into the ring. Miz is annoyed and he beats down on Hardy but an irate Chris Jericho is back in the ring and he rushes into the back of Miz and knocks him flying. Jericho looks increasingly fed up on Miz’ antics tonight and he is ready to make him pay. However, he is soon joined by Randy Orton who is also upset with Miz and the double team is on. Rock also manages to re-enter the ring and he heads off towards Ezekiel Jackson as Justin Gabriel drags himself up. The South African goes after Matt Hardy and the competitors are all involved with each other again. The WWE Universe are enjoying it right now as Miz is getting his comeuppance from Jericho and Orton but eventually the pair of them suffer from their egos and end up trashing each other as well. As Jericho and Orton – both now in the Rumble for almost 20 minutes – fight, Miz manages to roll out of the ring and he takes a break to the annoyance of the crowd at ringside. He staggers towards the announce table and he perches himself on the edge of Jerry Lawler and Jim Ross’ desk as he recovers.

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#17

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** SKIP SHEFFIELD ***

More jeers and heat for the arrival of the third member of Nexus as the ‘Cornfed Collossus’ makes his way out to the ring. With Otunga out of the way, Skip Sheffield will be joining forces with Ezekiel Jackson who is currently taking a beating from Rock ...

JERRY LAWLER
Another Nexus member?

JIM ROSS
Another one of Wade Barrett’s henchmen, here comes Skip Sheffield. Can he cause a shock and win the Rumble?

Sheffield removes his Nexus t-shirt as he approaches the ring and he sees his Nexus team-mate taking a hammering from Rock ...

However, Rocky spots Skip coming and diverts his attention to the bald Nexus member as he slides into the ring. Rock tries to kick Skip’s head off but misses and this allows Skip and Ezekiel Jackson to drag Rock into the corner where they can double team him. The pair of them achieve their aim as they take it in turns to stomp and kick Rock in the knees and stomach before they hit him with huge clotheslines. However, despite their attempts, Rock refuses to be eliminated from the ring as he hangs on. Orton and Jericho are now both down as they are beginning to struggle and JR and King begin to question whether or not either of them can last the entire Rumble to win it. Orton manages to hit a backbreaker on Jericho before plotting an RKO but Jericho sees it coming and responds by shoving Orton away ... CODEBREAKER! ANOTHER JERICHO CODEBREAKER! Jericho – looking worse for wear – looks to try and drag Orton towards the ropes but he is met by a dropkick from Gabriel and he falls down beside Orton. Gabriel smiles as he sees the positioning of Orton and Jericho, both men laid down on the mat, perfectly positioned ... Up he climbs to the top rope ... 450 SPLASH! GABRIEL HITS THE 450 SPLASH TO BOTH ORTON AND JERICHO! Miz, yet again, looks to creep up on Gabriel whilst he is unaware but Matt Hardy notices him and he stops Miz’ progress over the ring. Hardy scoops Miz up and slams him down on the mat and the crowd cheer again, the Rumble is filling up and it is time for the 18th entrant in the Rumble ...

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#18

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** HEATH SLATER ***

The fourth and final member of Nexus heads out to jeers ...

JIM ROSS
Another member of Nexus, King!

JERRY LAWLER
Is he the last one, JR?

The ‘One Man Rock Band’ rushes into the ring and he immediately joins Ezekiel Jackson and Skip Sheffield beating down on Rock in the corner. A three on one attack begins and they now appear to have weakened Rocky enough to start to make progress in terms of eliminating him. Rock though manages to fight back once again with several back elbows and this allows him to turn and attack Nexus once again. Heath Slater is knocked over by Rock and then Justin Gabriel comes over to aid Rock as he drags Slater away. Gabriel stomps his foot down into the stomach of Slater in the corner over and over despite the protestations of his former Nexus friend. After they knock Rock down again, Jackson and Sheffield notice the fight between Gabriel and they head over to drag the South African away. Gabriel is pulled off Heath Slater but Jackson and Sheffield fail to attack him. Gabriel looks confused again as Nexus appear to be trying to get him to join with them – again, Jackson points to his Nexus band. Gabriel is not impressed and he lashes out at Jackson with a right hand but Skip pulls Gabriel away once more. Another protestation ends in Gabriel fighting back against the Nexus before Gabriel ends up tussling with Matt Hardy once again. Hardy manages to get the upper hand and he manages to knock Gabriel down long enough to climb to the top rope to hit the Hardy Leg Drop. Spotting that Gabriel is in danger, Heath Slater drags him out of the way at the last second and Hardy lands hard on his backside. Nexus’ attention turns towards Hardy and they go to work on him as the crowd begin to chant down to the next entrant into the match ...

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#19

*** NO MORE WORDS ***

*** JEFF HARDY ***

Matt’s brother Jeff, aware of the danger he is in, rushes out and runs towards the ring ...

JIM ROSS
Here comes Jeff Hardy!

JERRY LAWLER
He’ll rescue his brother won’t he?

Hardy tosses his shirt away and leaps into the ring to head to the rescue of his brother Matt ...

Jeff jumps Nexus from behind as they try to eliminate Matt and all hell breaks loose as the Hardys fight against Nexus. The numbers tell a little as Nexus’ three get the upper hand until Matt and Jeff suddenly strike back – Matt hits a neckbreaker to Ezekiel Jackson, Jeff drop kicks Skip Sheffield in the chest and then Slater is whipped into the corner of the ring. Matt drops to his hands and knees and Jeff runs over, steps off the back of his brother and leaps into Slater in the corner. Jeff continues to beat down on Heath Slater in the corner and hits a mule kick against the turnbuckles. Rocky is back in the action as well as he goes after Ezekiel Jackson ... ROCK BOTTOM! ANOTHER ROCK BOTTOM TO EZEKIEL JACKSON! The crowd cheer once more as Rock prepares once again ... He hits both ropes ... PEOPLE’S ELBOW! JACKSON IS SURELY FINISHED! Rock stands over the Nexus muscle and looks around the arena as the crowd go wild with delight at his action. Rock’s attention is turned towards Matt Hardy who is stood opposite him and has just beaten down Skip Sheffield. Rocky clearly beckons to Hardy to help him eliminate Ezekiel Jackson and they lift his dead weight up off the mat. As they drag him towards the ropes, Matt and Rock prop Jackson over the ropes and begin to ease him up and over the top rope. However, they’ve missed something as Skip Sheffield sneaks up behind them ...

Skip Sheffield catches Matt by surprise and heaves him up over the top rope!
– MATT HARDY HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Matt looks up in shock and Rock looks annoyed as well – he diverts his attention towards Skip Sheffield and goes after him with a series of right hands. This allows Ezekiel Jackson time to recover and he falls off the ropes and down to the mat. Jeff looks over to his brother in surprise and he holds his head in his hands. Matt looks distraught at losing his WrestleMania opportunity but he urges Jeff to win instead. Heath Slater looks to catch Jeff by surprise as he launches an attack. Annoyed at the Nexus’ actions so far, Matt leaps up onto the apron and distracts the ‘One Man Rock Band’ who aims a clothesline ... Matt ducks, Jeff grabs Slater and rams his head into the top turnbuckle several times ...

Jeff then drags Slater and tosses him over the top rope to elimination!
– HEATH SLATER HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Matt grabs Slater as he hits the mat and runs him towards the barricades before ramming him into it shoulder first and getting some form of redemption. As he heads towards the aisle, Jeff reaches out and slaps hands with his brother. Matt looks annoyed still but accepts that he is out of the Rumble and he heads towards the entrance. Rock is fighting with the remaining two Nexus members – Skip Sheffield and Ezekiel Jackson – in the corner of the ring and Jeff heads over to help him out. In the other corner of the ring, Orton, Jericho and Gabriel are fighting it out between the three of them, taking it in turns to try and eliminate each other without really getting close. Hardy suddenly hits a quick kick to the gut of Skip Sheffield and this sets him up ... TWIST OF FATE! Hardy heads for the top rope as the crowd get really excitable but Ezekiel Jackson breaks clear of Rock and catches Hardy out. He shoves his legs from underneath him and Hardy falls hard on the top turnbuckle with a wince from the audience. Ezekiel Jackson tries to shove Hardy from the top ropes and out of the ring but Hardy hangs on desperately and ends up hanging onto the ropes like an orang-utan. Skip Sheffield tries to help but yet again Rock is there to the rescue of Hardy ... Rock ducks Skip’s clothesline attempt and goes to try and shove the Nexus man over the top rope when all of a sudden Miz sneaks up behind ...

Miz grabs Rock by the legs and lifts him unexpectantly over the top rope!
– THE ROCK HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


The crowd groan in disappointment as Rock hits the deck whilst Miz backs away from the ropes with a gleam in his eye! Rock cannot believe it and he has to be prevented by the referee as he looks to go back in and go after Miz. The Miz has made a huge statement here, he has eliminated the People’s Champion, he has taken out the Great One! Rock disappointedly heads down the aisle shaking his head to a huge applause from the fans as Miz slumps in the corner of the ring pleased with himself. The crowd begin to count down to the next entrant after a quick flurry of eliminations there that saw Matt Hardy, Heath Slater and The Rock all eliminated ...

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#20

*** SLOW CHEMICAL ***

*** KANE ***

Darkness falls over the arena apart from an eerie red light near the titantron that signals the arrival of the Devil’s Favourite Demon himself, the former World Champion Kane ...

JIM ROSS
Oh my word, King, here comes the Big Red Monster!

JERRY LAWLER
Matt Hardy and the Rock might have gone but here comes a really serious contender to win the Rumble tonight!

Kane steps up onto the apron and raises his arms high before crashing them down with a huge, red explosion that shocks the crowd and the other competitors in the Rumble match. He steps over the top rope menacingly and heads into the match ...

Miz sees Kane coming and he drops down to his knees and rolls out of the ring where he sits back against the barricades out of the way to the disappointment of the crowd at ringside. This doesn’t deter Kane as he confronts Jeff Hardy instead. Jeff swings a punch at Kane but he hardly makes an impression and Kane grabs him by the throat instead ... CHOKE SLAM! Chris Jericho now also rushes over at Kane and looks to hit the Codebreaker but Kane shoves him aside instead. As Jericho comes off the ropes, Kane grasps his throat again ... CHOKE SLAM! Here comes Orton! BIG BOOT FROM KANE TO ORTON! Kane is dominating here within seconds of entering the ring and next up is the South African, Justin Gabriel. He tries to rush Kane and he succeeds as he hits a series of kicks. However, Kane manages a recovery and catches Gabriel’s foot and then floors him onto the mat with one right hand. Kane reaches down and picks up Gabriel with his throat and drags him towards the ropes. Jackson and Sheffield see what is coming and they head over to try and save Gabriel again. They punch Kane in the kidneys and this causes him to release the former Nexus member but Kane is not impressed. Kane grabs Jackson by the throat but Sheffield stops him from hitting another choke slam as he kicks Kane in the side of the stomach. Kane is angered and he grabs Skip and throws him down to the mat in temper whilst Jackson checks on Gabriel again. Gabriel shoves Jackson away yet again though, he is refusing to accept any help from any Nexus member tonight! As Jackson is shoved away, Kane hits the BIG BOOT to the Guyanan and he crashes down to the mat. Kane now locks eyes with Gabriel who looks worried here – he bravely goes after Kane but to no avail as Kane catches him with a heavy right choke thrust ... Kane grabs Gabriel with the throat again ...

He lifts Gabriel high and choke slams him over the rope to the floor below!
– JUSTIN GABRIEL HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Gabriel crashes down hard on the floor and the crowd groan in sympathy as Kane stares down at him with a look of defiance in his eyes. He laughs before turning his attention towards Jeff Hardy in the corner as he struggles to recover from the earlier choke slam. Orton heads over and he attacks Kane and finally the Big Red Monster is slowed down a little as he teams with Hardy to beat him down. Jericho is also struggling up after his Choke Slam from before and he drags himself up with the ropes. The two remaining Nexus guys are eying Jericho up but they hang back as Y2J spots them and is distracted by their presence. Yet again, Miz sneaks up behind an opponent ...

He drives Jericho hard over the top rope and sends him flying down to the floor!
– CHRIS JERICHO HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Another popular member of the WWE has gone, Jericho this time lands hard on the floor. After being in the match for over 25 minutes, Jericho’s efforts are appreciated by the WWE Universe but he looks disappointed as he makes his way down the aisle. We’re now down to six people in the ring – the first man in the match Randy Orton, Miz, Ezekiel Jackson and Skip Sheffield from Nexus, Jeff Hardy and Kane. Orton and Kane are fighting it out in the corner, Jeff Hardy is down on the mat nearby. Miz is out of the way as Jackson and Sheffield contemplate their next move in the corner and the crowd chant down to the 21st entrant ...

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#21

*** SEXY BOY ***

*** SHAWN MICHAELS ***

The WWE Universe go wild as they see the RAW General Manager heading out in his wrestling gear – a surprise entrant in the Royal Rumble! He drops to his knees as the fireworks explode behind him ...

JERRY LAWLER
HBK! What is he doing here in the Rumble?

JIM ROSS
HBK retired last year at WrestleMania 26, King, this is a one night only deal here tonight!

Strutting his stuff, Shawn Michaels climbs the steps and through the ropes with a look of confidence on his face ...

However, unfortunately for HBK, his entrance has been noticed by the two remaining members of Nexus and they have spent the past minute watching HBK enter the ring whilst contemplating what they plan to do to the General Manager. As soon as he enters the ring, Skip Sheffield rushes over at HBK with a clothesline but he ducks and goes for Sweet Chin Music immediately. Skip catches his foot and then swivels him round ... Huge clothesline from Ezekiel Jackson that sends HBK crashing down onto the mat. The crowd are silenced as they see the General Manager take a shot for the first time in ten months and they look on in concern for him. Skip Sheffield grins and starts to kick the chest and gut of HBK over and over as Jackson watches ready to take over. HBK is holding his stomach as he tries to get up but he is unable to. He is rescued by Jeff Hardy though who attacks Skip Sheffield with a dropkick off the top rope that sends Sheffield down to the mat with a crash. Jackson looks to attack Jeff but fails this time and Hardy responds with a reverse mule kick that staggers him back. Clutching the ropes as he holds himself up, Jackson tries to recover himself but then ...

SWEET CHIN MUSIC! HBK superkicks Jackson up and over the top rope!
– EZEKIEL JACKSON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


The crowd cheer wildly as one of the remaining Nexus team goes over the top rope and falls to the mat with a thud. Looking down at him, HBK waves sarcastically to the Guyanan before turning his attention towards Skip Sheffield instead. Sheffield is unaware that his team-mate has been eliminated as he fights with Hardy in the corner but HBK is ready for revenge on him and he drags him away from Jeff and starts unloading right hands and knife-edge chops. Skip drops down and rolls out of the ring, he is desperate to escape HBK ...

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#22

*** REALEZA ***

*** ALBERTO DEL RIO ***

Ricardo Rodriguez comes rushing out from backstage clutching a microphone with his greasy hair around his round face. He appears excited that he is about to introduce his man to the Rumble, a late entry could mean that he is in with a great chance of winning here tonight ...

RICARDO RODRIGUEZ
Señoras y señores! Es mi gran honor presentarles a ustedes. Él es el hombre que llevará a la victoria en este partido. Es la esencia de la excelencia! Una verdadera leyenda! Él es ... ALBERTOOOO DELLLLL RRRRRRRIIIOOOOOOOOOOO!

A silver Porsche car heads out into the arena and comes to a halt in the entrance before the Intercontinental Champion himself heads out with his title belt strapped around his waist. Looking confident, he slowly ambles to the ring as he shows off his title belt and talks Spanish to the crowd as he heads for the ring – he clearly isn’t handing out compliments ...

JIM ROSS
This man, King, could be a real darkhorse to win the Rumble tonight! In the past few months, he has lost just one match since his debut, he has captured the Intercontinental Championship and he has beaten some of the biggest names in the WWE ...

JERRY LAWLER
All very impressive, JR, until you realise that he is still a complete idiot, his attitude to the other superstars is a disgrace ...

Del Rio hands his title belt and his white scarf to a referee and then he jogs quickly up the steps and clambers into the ring ...

Meanwhile, HBK’s pursuit of Skip Sheffield continues, he has caught up with him on the outside and is beating the hell out of him. Skip manages to create a break when he shoves HBK into the steps and then he re-enters the ring. HBK follows him in and nearly has his head kicked off his shoulders immediately ... Del Rio strikes with a stunning kick! Jeers for Del Rio’s actions as he pompously begins to kick and stamp at the body of the RAW General Manager. Miz joins Del Rio in the attack on HBK now – the crowd are getting rather annoyed at the way Miz is dodging and weaving although Lawler refuses to condemn him for it (anybody who remembers the Rumble in 1996 will understand why). Orton continues to struggle with Kane in the corner as he gets closer to seeing the Rumble through to the conclusion – or maybe more importantly, Cena – and Skip Sheffield and Jeff Hardy have resumed their battle in the corner. Del Rio is working the right arm of the General Manager and is clearly setting up for his submission finisher. The problems for him begin when he allows Miz to drag HBK up for the Skull Crushing Finale though. HBK manages to counter Miz’ attempt and he rams him shoulder first into the Mexican aristocrat to cause a break for him. SWEET CHIN MUSIC TO MIZ BY HBK! Oh, the crowd enjoyed that! Del Rio manages to barrel into HBK from behind again and he tries to force him over the top rope. However, HBK is a veteran, an expert, in managing to hang on in the Royal Rumble and he wraps his arms and legs in the ropes to deny Del Rio the honour of eliminating him. Skip Sheffield tries to assist Del Rio in eliminating HBK as he realises that his Nexus team-mates have now all gone and he is on his own. When Jeff Hardy picks a fight with Del Rio, this leaves the ‘Cornfed Collossus’ with HBK and a shoulder block through the ropes knocks him down. HBK looks to take advantage as he waits for Sheffield to stagger back up ... He goes for Sweet Chin Music but Skip ducks it, HBK responds quickly though ...

Clothesline over the top rope by HBK!
– SKIP SHEFFIELD HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Finally, the Nexus involvement in the Rumble is over – thanks to the RAW General Manager! Michaels stands near the ropes and he stares down over the top rope at the angered face of Skip Sheffield. Caught unaware, Michaels is almost eliminated by Miz who sneaks back into the ring looking for revenge for the recent superkick he just received from the General Manager. Again, HBK holds on to the ropes tightly and it makes it impossible for Awesome One to eliminate him at this point. Miz starts pummelling away at the back and shoulders of Michaels as he tries to weaken him down for another elimination attempt. Over the other side of the ring, Kane and Orton are still fighting it out, the Big Red Monster has the upper hand over Orton who has now been in the Royal Rumble for over half an hour now and is suffering from fatigue. However, he manages to fight off Kane as he grasps him around the throat looking for a choke slam. Shoving him aside, Orton waits for Kane to spin back round and come towards him, he lifts him up and drops him down face first onto the top turnbuckle. As Kane spins round stunned, Orton waits ... RKO! ORTON WITH THE RKO TO KANE! This gives Orton chance to recuperate a little as the other guys in the match are now paired off, Miz with Michaels and Jeff Hardy with Alberto Del Rio. Hardy and Del Rio are exchanging right hands in the corner, the Mexican kicks Hardy’s knee and drops him down to his knees. Del Rio hits the ropes and then dropkicks Jeff in the side of the head and sends him spinning towards the edge of the ring as the crowd begin to chant down towards the next entrant ...

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#23

*** METALINGUS ***

*** EDGE ***

Heat for the Rated R Superstar as he heads out looking maniacally around and tearing at his hair ...

JIM ROSS
Here comes the man who won the 2010 Royal Rumble, King! Can he win the 2011 Rumble match as well?

JERRY LAWLER
More importantly, JR, Shawn Michaels has been claiming that Edge is not worthy of a place in this year’s event – and he is in the ring right now!

Edge seems to have realised this as well and he slides into the ring on his front with a grin on his face ...

Miz notices Edge and he stands back to allow the Rated R Superstar the chance to take revenge on the GM. Edge nods his head at Miz and then stands over HBK ready to attack and enjoying the moment of power he has here. HBK drags himself up on the middle rope and then looks up at Edge with a look of dawning realisation coming onto his face. He grins and this appears to infuriate Edge who launches his right boot into the chest of HBK to knock him back down to the mat. He starts stomping away and HBK is forced under the bottom rope where he falls off the apron and down to the outside where he hits the mat hard. Edge follows him through the ropes and goes after him determined to get some revenge and he grabs hold of the GM and rams him into the barricades to a groan of disappointment from the WWE Universe. Edge is certainly enjoying himself and he drags HBK back up before slamming him shoulder first into the barricades a second time and causing his boss on RAW to writhe in pain on the floor. Meanwhile, in the ring, Orton is desperately trying to drag Kane up and over the ropes after his RKO, Miz is stood back watching and waiting for a chance and Del Rio has Hardy in the corner where he is tying his right arm around the top rope and kicking at it trying to set up for the Cross Arm Breaker. With seven very capable men now in the ring, seven legitimate winners of the Rumble, it’s anybody’s guess how this is going to pan out.

With Shawn Michaels struggling on the floor, Edge continues to stalk the RAW General Manager as he crawls past the announce tables. The Rated R Superstar aims several kicks to the GM and has him right where he wants him it seems. Edge decides that anything is fair game in the Royal Rumble and he grabs a steel chair from the timekeeper area and stands over HBK with a grin. He raises the chair high and is ready to plunge it into the ribs of HBK but he counters with a stiff kick to the crown jewels of Edge to the delight of the fans. With no disqualification, HBK is allowed to do what he needs to do and he takes time to recover. As he does, Shawn climbs back into the ring where Alberto Del Rio spots him and seems to think that he has a chance to make a bigger name for himself. Del Rio goes for a stamp on the back of Shawn but he sees it coming and catches the Mexican’s foot. HBK stands up and Del Rio tries to escape as he holds his right foot looking determined to teach the WWE’s brightest new star something about respect. HBK spins Del Rio around and then ducks under his arm, off the ropes, flying shoulder block! Del Rio goes down, HBK nips up and goes after him and starts launching right hands. Miz looks to blindside HBK but Jeff Hardy makes the save and he whips Miz into the ropes ... dropkick! Miz tries to escape again but Hardy is realising Miz’ tactics now and he prevents him from leaving. He drags him over towards Kane and Orton and shoves him hard into the Big Red Monster who turns, not amused ... CHOKE SLAM! KANE CHOKESLAMS MIZ ONTO THE MAT! This lapse allows Orton to escape out of the corner though and he takes advantage ... RKO TO KANE! ORTON WITH AN RKO! Jeff looks at Miz and Kane who are both down on the mat, laid side by side after the Choke Slam and the RKO and a smile creeps over his face ... Jeff quickly climbs to the top buckle and prepares ... SWANTON BOMB! JEFF HITS THE SWANTON TO BOTH KANE AND MIZ! The crowd are going wild with delight here and they explode when suddenly, out of nowhere, Del Rio tries to escape Shawn Michaels. However, Jeff and Orton are stood in the way, Del Rio turns ... SWEET CHIN MUSIC! DEL RIO IS SUPERKICKED BY THE RAW GENERAL MANAGER!

Orton, Michaels and Hardy are now all stood in the ring and looking from one to the other as the three heels are down and rolling out of the way in pain. They nods their heads in acknowledgement of each other and then seem set to lock up with each other when Edge inadvertently rolls back into the ring, half out of it, stands up and then realises the situation he has just re-entered to. A look of disbelief passes over his face, Hardy, Orton and Michaels are all eying him like a juicy piece of steak, they are ready to take out the 2010 Rumble winner! All three men decide to go for Edge at the same time and the crowd love it as each man hits a blow to the Rated R Superstar. Jeff is the first to hit a big move though as he hits the Whisper in the Wind in the corner to stagger Edge down to the mat. Edge tries to escape to the outside but Orton is ready ... He grabs Edge and drags him back through the ropes, his feet hanging on the middle rope ... Hanging DDT! Edge’s face plants down hard on the mat and the crowd love it. As Edge rolls in pain on the mat, Hardy and Orton both point to HBK to finish the job. Smiling as he remembers all the trouble he has had from Edge lately, HBK stands back and starts to tune up the band as the crowd cheer him on. However, there is a loud countdown chant as well, entrant 24 is coming soon ...


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#24

*** WRITTEN IN MY FACE ***

*** SHEAMUS ***

The fired up Celtic Warrior heads out towards the ring with a determined look in his eye, no Hornswoggle near him tonight!

JERRY LAWLER
My, my, my, JR! Another fearsome competitor entering the Rumble late!

JIM ROSS
Former WWE Champion on two occasions, Sheamus has been on a roll the past six months or so, King! He is a legitimate danger!

Sheamus is rushing towards the ring and he clambers the steps and through the ropes ...

Jeff Hardy immediately goes for Sheamus but the Celtic Warrior is ready and he ducks the move and Hardy crashes into the corner turnbuckles instead. Sheamus comes off the ropes opposite and then back towards Jeff ... BROGUE KICK! Jeff Hardy is completely floored immediately but Sheamus’ attention is taken by Randy Orton who goes after him next. These two have recent history, it was Orton who won the title from Sheamus at Night of Champions a few months ago and they trade right hands to and fro, Sheamus getting the advantage with his extra power coming from Orton’s fatigue. HBK is still waiting for Edge to get to his feet ... SWEET CHIN MUSIC! HBK LAYS OUT EDGE WITH A STUNNER OF A KICK TO THE JAW! Edge is surely finished! HBK drags Edge up and positions him over the top rope, a groggy Edge cannot fight back after the recent battering he has taken ...

Shawn Michaels tosses Edge up and over the top rope!
– EDGE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


The crowd go wild for the elimination of last year’s Royal Rumble and HBK looks down on Edge from the ring with a look of vindication on his face. He signals that he was right all along, Edge was not Royal Rumble winning material and this dawns on Edge as he comes around a little. Edge is seething and he tries to go back into the ring for the General Manager but the referees restrain him instead and force him back to the ramp as HBK smirks to him. The crowd yell out a warning to HBK though as the Mexican Alberto Del Rio sneaks up behind him ...

Edge pulls down the top rope as Del Rio bundles HBK over the rope ...
– SHAWN MICHAELS HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Boos and jeers around the arena as Edge looks down on a surprised Shawn Michaels with a look of revenge in his eyes now. Edge taunts HBK who looks disappointed and then shakes his head at the way in which he was eliminated. Looking up at Del Rio first, then to Edge, HBK tries to stay calm and not rise to their taunting. He applauds Del Rio and Edge before clearly motioning to Edge that he is the General Manager and now that he is out of the Rumble, his fighting is over. Edge refuses to accept that though and he shoves HBK hard in the chest. HBK looks annoyed but controls his anger and simply warns Edge to back off. As HBK tries to walk back to the backstage, Edge grabs him and spins him around. HBK almost snaps but again controls himself. Edge goes another step though and he continues to shove HBK in the chest, staggering him back towards the ring, Edge is clearly still upset over his treatment from HBK recently. Suddenly, Michaels snaps and starts to launch right hands at Edge on the outside. Unfortunately for him, Del Rio is still watching on and he exits the ring and drags HBK off. HBK tries to fend this off but Del Rio has hold of him tight ... when Michaels does escape, he isn’t prepared ... SPEAR! EDGE HITS A SPEAR TO MICHAELS! Edge now looks satisfied and starts to back away as Del Rio looks down at HBK with a smirk and decides to make a name for himself ... CROSS ARM BREAKER! HBK IS TAPPING OUT! The action in the ring is not important right now, the treatment of HBK by the eliminated Edge and the cocky SMACKDOWN Intercontinental Champion is the main talking point here! Eventually, Del Rio does release the hold as medics head out to see to HBK. Del Rio swaggers back into the ring just as the countdown to entrant 25 begins ...

JIM ROSS
Yet again, Alberto Del Rio does not care about injuring people, King! How many more people will he hurt before he is happy?

JERRY LAWLER
Maybe number 25 can teach him a lesson, JR?

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#25

*** BOOYAKA BOOYAKA 619 ***

*** REY MYSTERIO ***

Huge pop in the arena as the music of the returning luchador, Rey Mysterio, hits ...

JIM ROSS
Maybe this man, King?

JERRY LAWLER
Definitely this man, JR! The first man that Alberto Del Rio sidelined with the Cross Arm Breaker!

The colour has drained from the face of Alberto Del Rio as the pint-sized Rey Mysterio has appeared in the aisle with his yellow and purple colours protecting his identity ...

Del Rio is shocked, he is stunned but he begins to regain some composure – just in time for Mysterio to start running towards the ring. The crowd are roaring Mysterio on as he slides under the bottom ropes and back into the Rumble, a match that he won back in 2006! Del Rio launches a kick to his head as he enters the ring head first and, for a moment or two, Del Rio has the upper hand with kicks to the head and shoulders. However, Mysterio fights out and he ducks under a clothesline, hits the ropes and then takes Del Rio down with a headscissors. Del Rio tries to respond quickly but Mysterio’s quick feet launch into his thighs as he is kicked over and over ... Miz locks Rey up and looks to hit the Skull Crushing Finale but Mysterio is able to counter out behind Miz and he dropkicks him in the lower back and through the ropes to the outside. As Del Rio tries to capitalise on the distraction, he rushes at Rey but a dropkick to the knee stumbles him and he lands on the middle rope – perfectly set up. Here goes Mysterio ... 619! 619 TO DEL RIO! Del Rio staggers to his feet as Mysterio leaps onto the top rope and goes for a jumping hurricanrana but he swivels in mid air and instead of taking Del Rio down ...

He sends Del Rio spinning over the top rope and out of the Rumble!
– ALBERTO DEL RIO HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


The crowd go wild as Del Rio is eliminated from the Rumble by the returning Rey Mysterio who simply stands in the ring looking down at the man who injured him months ago – vengeance is certainly sweet for Rey Mysterio! Rey adjusts his mask as Del Rio looks up stunned and continues to watch as Ricardo Rodriguez, Del Rio’s announcer, comes rushing to Del Rio and starts to usher him away, convincing him that the fight is for another day. Del Rio backs away and Mysterio has a huge grin on his face, visible under his mask, what a return for the Mexican! However, the Royal Rumble is not a place to stand admiring your achievements and Rey is clattered from behind by the brute known as Sheamus. The Celtic Warrior begins to pound away at Mysterio in the corner and the Rumble begins to get back to some kind of an order. Orton and Miz are now battling away as finally the ‘Awesome One’ is forced to fight for his chance to win the Rumble whilst Hardy and Kane are now trading blows as well. Hardy is not faring so well against the Big Red Monster as Kane’s extra power is telling and he is reduced to his knees in the corner as Kane takes control. Every time Hardy tries to get to his feet, Kane swings his right hand and hits a thrust to the throat of Hardy that knocks him back down. Eventually, Kane drags Hardy out of the corner and he lifts him up by the throat with a double handed choke and tries to deposit him over the top rope. The crowd roar Hardy on to hold on and he manages to twist himself around the ropes as Kane drops him. Kane is furious and he tries to beat Hardy as he is in the ropes, not safely back in the ring yet, with kicks and right hands. However, a bruised Hardy manages to hold on and swerves his way back through the ropes and into the ring. Kane is at first annoyed but then a maniacal grin spreads across his face and he steps back to wait ... As Hardy gets up, Kane grabs him by the throat and lifts Hardy high ... Hardy counters out of the Choke Slam though and jumps away before hitting a standing drop kick to a surprised Kane that wobbles him backwards. A second drop kick staggers Kane again before Hardy climbs the buckles to hit a Whisper in the Wind as Kane comes after him. Jeff stands over a fallen Kane and the crowd love it, he looks to the top rope thinking of another Swanton Bomb but he is prevented from doing this by Miz who runs him to the corner instead and shoulder first through the ropes and into the ring post. A groan of disappointment from the crowd as Hardy’s shoulder connects with the steel and he winces in pain as he crumples in the corner in pain ... Miz looks pleased with himself again and he waits ready to pounce as Hardy gets up ... SKULL CRUSHING FINALE! Miz drops Hardy down on his face and yet again Miz has taken advantage of shock and surprise tactics. He now begins to try and eliminate Hardy despite being in the ring for half an hour himself now. On the other side of the ring, Sheamus and Mysterio are battling – Mysterio’s speed and quickness against Sheamus’ power and strength – with the Celtic Warrior mainly on top. Kane is getting to his feet slowly and Orton looks to take advantage of this as he heads out of the corner and hits a kick to the head of the Big Red Monster. With Kane down on the mat, Orton strikes stiff stomps to the exposed limbs of Kane, his arms, his knees, his shoulders ...

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#26

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***

*** JOHN CENA ***

The roof blows off the Quicken Loans Arena as the most controversial man in the WWE makes his appearance at last!

JIM ROSS
Here he comes, King! John Cena!

JERRY LAWLER
This is the moment we’ve been waiting for, Orton and Cena in the ring at the same time!

Cena takes his time as he heads for the ring staring up at Randy Orton who is not focused on Kane anymore!

Suddenly, Orton has had enough of waiting – he is ready to fight. He climbs through the ropes quickly and heads down the aisle towards Cena and they begin trading punches, the crowd are going wild as they cheer on Orton and jeer Cena. Orton is fatigued though, he has been in the Rumble now for almost 40 minutes and his punches lack some zip that Cena’s don’t. Getting on top, Cena begins to pound away at Orton with right hands and reduces Orton to his knees. Cena drags the Viper up and looks to whip him into the barriers in the aisle but Orton is ready, he reverses and Cena smashes into the barriers instead, the crowd behind them going wild. Cena is down and clutching his back as Orton, looking tired but ready to fight, smirks as he looks down on his foe. Dragging Cena up, he walks down the aisle away from the ring towards the titantron area where Cena is rammed shoulder first into the mini-screens displaying the Royal Rumble logos. All eyes are on Cena and Orton as the guys in the ring continue to battle for supremacy – unfortunately for them, the attention isn’t with them right now! Orton stalks after Cena as he tries to crawl away towards the technical area where the sound guys are stood watching. Orton approaches Cena looking to make him pay for all the recent problems he has caused him but, out of nowhere, Cena finds a metal bar and swings it into the gut of Orton. Cue a loud groan from the watching audience and Cena rolls away, he has bought himself some time. The pair of them resume their trading of blows and they battle back into the WWE Universe who are held back – in a fashion – by the stewards. Cena is on the run a little and he is staggering away from the Viper who looks crazy, intent on hurting Cena, as he stalks after him. Cena leads them up some steps and they continue to battle through the crowd as Cena manages to get a knee to the gut of Orton in and again creates some space between them. Persisitent, Orton follows Cena as he heads through the gangway and out into the concourse area where the crowd are still being held back. The cameras are following as Cena and Orton spill into the open space and the fight continues. Orton ducks an attempted clothesline from Cena and then throws him up onto the top of the sales area for the WWE Shop where merchandise is sent scattering all over the place. A Cena custom made ‘You can’t see me now!’ t-shirt is caught up in the battle and Orton grabs it, looks at it with disdain and spits on it in disgust. He then proceeds to smash it into the face of Cena who falls down the back of the counter. Orton jumps up on the counter and jumps down towards Cena with a double axe handle that staggers Cena into the wall before the camera suddenly goes fuzzy and we lose the feed for a moment ...

Back in the ring we head where all is a little quieter despite the five guys that are there. Sheamus and Mysterio are still fighting it out, Kane is back to his feet now and Miz is still trying desperately to eliminate Jeff Hardy. Kane is unhappy with Jeff after he took him down initially and he shoves Miz aside to go after Hardy who is now struggling with a pain in his shoulder thanks to Miz. A look of fury in his eyes, Kane grabs Hardy by the throat, there is no messing this time it seems ... CHOKE SLAM! CHOKE SLAM TO HARDY! Miz applauds Kane but the Big Red Monster doesn’t care for anybody it seems and he grabs Miz by the throat as well ... CHOKE SLAM TO MIZ! Kane is clearing house here! Sheamus is next up to try as he rushes over looking for a Brogue Kick but Kane ducks, grabs the Celtic Warrior by the throat as well ... CHOKE SLAM TO SHEAMUS! Kane stands looking pleased with himself and he approaches Rey Mysterio who is just struggling up after his battle with Sheamus ... Kane scoops him up, he sets for a Tombstone Piledriver ... But Mysterio counters and takes Kane down with a headscissors and sets him up on the ropes ... 619! MYSTERIO HITS THE 619 TO KANE! He leaps up onto the top rope and then lets himself fall ... WEST COAST POP! Kane is downed by Rey Mysterio who is now able to take a few seconds to recover, all five men are down as the crowd begin to chant down towards the next entrant ...


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#27

*** SOS ***

*** KOFI KINGSTON ***

Huge cheer for the popular Kofi Kingston, a man who many people believe could win the Rumble tonight, as he heads out and jumps forward, the pyro exploding around him as he beams in anticipation.

JIM ROSS
In Rumble history, King, the highest number of winners have entered at Number 27! Tonight, Kofi Kingston looks to add his name to that list!

JERRY LAWLER
What an opportunity for Kofi, JR! But what is happening with Cena and Orton?!!!

Kofi leaps up onto the apron and through the ropes surveying the scene – everybody is down and recovering!

There are five men in the ring who are down on their back or on their knees, Kofi who has just entered and two more guys who are still in the Rumble – officially – but appear to be more intent on destroying each other instead! As Kofi decides to go after a weakened Miz, the camera switches to the car park where Orton and Cena have spilled out now. The stewards are keeping the fans locked inside but the pair continue to fight around the side of the arena and are followed by the new cameraman as they do. Orton has the upper hand and is getting some measure of revenge as he rams Cena face first into the wall and then shoulder first into a sign that brightly flashes the news that the Royal Rumble is taking place in the arena tonight! They continue to stagger round the arena and into the parking lot where the WWE Universe were not able to get access and continue their fight between the WWE’s trucks. Orton holds Cena’s head against a truck with Cena’s image on it and shouts down at Cena, “Not so cocky now, Cena?” before dragging him up and running him into the side of a limosine. Cena is really struggling here and there is a trickle of blood running from his nose as Orton continues the beatdown. Cena appears to be on the run now and trying to escape rather than fight – Orton stalks after him determined to make him pay. Orton follows Cena through the parking lot and into the backstage area before they head into the interview area. Orton grabs hold of Cena and goes to drive him into the metal piping displays but Cena holds on and blocks before hitting an elbow to the ribs of Orton to cause a break. The Viper halts for a second and then straightens back up to go back on the attack ... BAM! CENA LEVELS ORTON WITH A STEEL CHAIR! The groan from the crowd can be clearly heard here in the backstage area and Cena smirks as he looks down on Orton. Wandering through the backstage area with his wrestling gear on, Kurt Angle halts as he passes Cena and Orton’s business, laughs to himself and then continues on – he must be one of the remaining three men to enter the Rumble. Cena watches him leave and then he picks the chair up again and stands over Orton before driving it hard into his ribs and gut over and over. Orton is gasping for breath but the security and officials back off when Cena threatens them with the chair as well. As Randy rolls over onto his stomach, Cena begins to crash the chair over and over into the back of Orton until finally the officials pull the chair away from Cena who looks possessed. A referee tells Cena to “Leave it, John, go back to the ring!” but Cena ignores him. Laughing to himself, Cena drags Orton up and lifts him onto his shoulders as the officials wave their hands begging Cena to stop. He ignores them ... CENA HITS THE ‘FU’ TO ORTON ON THE CONCRETE FLOOR!

In the background, the crowd can be heard chanting and the cameras switch back to the ring where nothing much has changed and the rest of the men left in the Rumble continue with their battles ...


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#28

*** MEDAL ***

*** KURT ANGLE ***

Red, white and blue pyro explodes as Kurt Angle – the man who just ignored Cena’s heinous assault on Orton – makes his way out towards the ring looking confident ...

JIM ROSS
Olympic gold medal winner, King. Has vowed to win his first Royal Rumble tonight!

JERRY LAWLER
Kurt Angle has never won the Rumble? Are you sure?

Angle jogs towards the ring and enters before going straight after Jeff Hardy who staggers into his path ...

ANGLE SLAM! KURT IMMEDIATELY HITS THE ANGLE SLAM ON JEFF HARDY! Hardy rolls away in pain, he has taken a real hammering tonight, as Angle leaps to his feet, he is pumped up and ready here tonight. JR is right, he has never won the Rumble – he has come excruciatingly close on several occasions but never actually winning. As Angle looks for his next victim, the camera returns to the backstage area and the interview pit where there is now no sign of Cena but Orton is being helped onto a stretcher by the medics, he is not moving and there is genuine concern in the eyes of the doctors and officials stood around him. Cena has done the damage tonight and has now scarpered ...

JIM ROSS
King, it appears that Randy Orton’s evening is over.

JERRY LAWLER
It might not be his evening, JR. A beating like that can take you out for months. I doubt we’ll be seeing Randy Orton for a long time.

JIM ROSS
What about the man who did the damage, King? Do you think Cena will come back out here?

JERRY LAWLER
I’m not sure, JR. Cena might have done the damage he wanted to do tonight, he did take a hell of a beating from Orton in the first place!

As Orton is helped onto the stretcher, the camera returns to the ring where Angle has the Ankle Lock in place on Jeff Hardy who is really in trouble here. As Hardy struggles, Angle appears to be in the mood to show no mercy. Hardy slithers towards the ropes and Angle makes no effort to stop this – there is after all no rope break in the Rumble. As Hardy clutches the ropes, Angle twists the lock in further and Hardy is in real pain now. Realising that there is now no rope break, Hardy taps out thinking that this will cause Angle to break the hold. However, Angle relentlessly holds on and he causes Hardy to scream in pain now as he wrenches it in further. Instead, Jeff uses the ropes to pull himself up and then hopping on his other leg, he manages to twist and hit a reverse mule kick to Angle that causes a break at last. As Angle spins back round, Jeff gives himself even more time to recover as he leaps up and hits a drop kick to the former Olympian but he clutches his ankle in pain afterwards. Undeterred, Hardy waits for Angle to get back up ... TWIST OF FATE! HARDY HITS THE TWIST OF FATE! Angle is down on the mat and in big trouble just moments after entering the match. Jeff climbs to the top turnbuckle, he is ready to fly ... SWANTON BOMB ... misses! Angle moves out of the way at the last moment and Hardy hits the mat hard on his back, both men stagger up, Hardy clutching the ropes ...

Angle clotheslines Jeff up and over the top rope!
– JEFF HARDY HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Loud heat for Angle as he eliminates the returning Jeff but he isn’t bothered at all as he drops back to a seated position and laughs to himself – another potential danger has gone. As he gets up however, Angle is in trouble again, this time from Kofi Kingston who attacks him and starts pounding away in the corner. Kurt covers up, he is caught unawares here but then Sheamus turns up and he drags Kofi off Angle and hits him with the Irish Curse backbreaker that leaves Kingston writhing in agony. Angle and Sheamus appear to strike a bit of a bargain with each other as they lay the boots to Kofi whilst Miz and Rey Mysterio fight it out in the opposite corner. Five men in the ring, two men still to come and two other guys officially still in the Royal Rumble match, we’re getting down to the latter stages of the match now. Who is heading for WrestleMania 27?

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#29

*** CRANK IT UP ***

*** BIG SHOW ***

A very confident looking Big Show heads out with a menacing look in his eyes after his recent change of attitude.

JERRY LAWLER
Big Show at Number 29, JR? Can I change my pick to win?

JIM ROSS
How on earth is anybody going to be able to eliminate this man?

Big Show steps up onto the apron and he stares at Sheamus and Angle as they move away from Kofi, it appears that the Ghanaian is in big trouble here!

Sheamus and Angle continue to back away and they allow Big Show chance to advance on Kofi with a mean look in his eye. However, Sheamus and Angle are now realising that the end of the Rumble is near and they cast knowing looks to each other before attacking Big Show when his back is turned. Catching him by surprise, they force Big Show away from the fallen Kofi and into the corner where Miz hops over and joins in with the beating being handed to Show. The World’s Largest Athlete though is not in the mood for this and he violently shoves the three of them away and roars out loud as if daring them to try again. It is Sheamus that dares ... BAM! WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION! There are some cheers for Big Show despite his recent actions as he levels the Celtic Warrior who is in no way popular with the WWE Universe of course! Angle and Miz back away a little and this allows Show to go after Kofi again but he is bouncing back to his feet just in time to fight off Show with a series of stiff kicks to the ribs. Big Show staggers to the corner and Kofi bounds up and leaps onto the middle ropes so that he can strike Big Show over and over and over in the corner to the delight of the fans. Show is too fresh though and he senses a chance and shoves Kofi over the rope and down ... Kofi desperately hangs on to the ropes as he lands on the apron – if anybody can knock him off the apron, he will be eliminated. Big Show swings a huge right hand at his head but Kofi ducks well and shoulders Big Show in the ribs again, sore from those kicks, and this buys him some time. He looks to head back into the ring when Sheamus comes flying towards him instead and clatters into him. Kofi flies off the apron and lands with both feet on the steel ring steps and, as he topples forward, he reaches out his hands and grabs the barricades. Hanging on desperately to ensure his feet do not hit the floor, Kofi manages to twist back around and he stands on the ring steps looking up at an angry looking Big Show and an angry looking Sheamus. Bad times! Kofi contemplates the impossible task he has of managing to get back into the ring past these two monsters – it appears th on the ring steps looking up at an angry looking Big Show and an angry looking Sheamus. Bad times! Kofi contemplates the impossible task he has of managing to get back into the ring past these two monsters – it appears that Sheamus has forgotten the WMD punch he just took from Big Show just a few moments ago! The crowd begin to chant ‘Kofi!’ but the prospect of him continuing looks bleak here. Sheamus holds open the ropes and invites him to come back into the ring – he is clearly ready to knock Kofi straight back out and Kofi laughs at his offer. Suddenly though, Mysterio runs over and he cannons into the back of Sheamus who is caught off guard. A drop kick from Mysterio staggers Sheamus before he hits the opposite ropes and rushes towards a groggy Sheamus again, leaping up into a Hurricanrana ...

Mysterio uses the Hurricanrana takedown to send Sheamus over the top rope and out of the Rumble!
– SHEAMUS HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


The crowd go wild at the elimination of the Celtic Warrior as Rey spins round back into the ring ... BAM! WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION TO MYSTERIO! Big Show clatters Mysterio’s jaw and sends him crashing down to the mat but this diversion is all the time Kingston needs to rush up the steps behind Show and re-enter the ring. With Big Show’s focus elsewhere, Kofi leaps onto the top rope and leaps up high ... Crossbody to Big Show! The ring shakes as Big Show is taken down and Kofi clatters him over and over with right hands again. It is Kane this time that drags Kofi off, the monstrous opponents just keep coming for Mysterio and Kofi here don’t they? Kane grips him tight around the throat but Kofi knows Kane well these days and he is able to counter out of the attempted Choke Slam and hits a series of kicks to Kane that stagger him. Miz is sensing an opportunity to eliminate Mysterio now and he drags his unconscious body up and drapes him over the ropes before lifting his legs up and over. Mysterio looks to have had it but he comes to his senses just in time and as Miz looks to heave him over, Rey manages to swing over the top rope and back round through the ropes and into the ring. He slides through the legs of the Miz and then catches him with a drop kick, Miz is draped over the middle rope ... Mysterio runs off the ropes ... 619! MYSTERIO HITS THE 619 TO MIZ! Miz spins off and is down on his back struggling as Mysterio leaps up onto the top rope ready for the West Coast Pop ... As he leaps off looking to hit Miz again, Kane catches Mysterio by the throat ... CHOKE SLAM! Kane is back up, he is ready to destroy everybody ...

*** 5 ***
*** 4 ***
*** 3 ***
*** 2 ***
*** 1 ***

#30

*** GRAVEYARD SYMPHONY ***

*** THE UNDERTAKER ***

As the lights in the arena switch off, there is a quick look of worry that appears on Kane’s face as the Phenom begins his entrance ...

JIM ROSS
Oh my, King! Number 30 is the Phenom!

JERRY LAWLER
The Undertaker is the final man in the Rumble! Can I change my pick again?

The mist swarms around the entrance to the arena and the blue spotlights light up the entrance as the dark body of the Undertaker makes his way through and slowly heads for the ring. Thunder and lightning sounds echo around the arena as Taker nears the ring, Kane is stood waiting for him to enter the ring as Taker brings up the lights to huge cheers ...

Taker takes off his coat and hat and leaves them on the ring steps before heading through the ropes and into the ring where he immediately goes face to face with his brother, Kane. The tension in the air is electrifying as the two of them stare deep into each other’s eyes, a look of fury on Kane’s face, a look of utter contempt on the face of his brother, the Undertaker. Kane blinks first and swings a right hand but Taker blocks and starts pounding at Kane with rights and lefts of his own, he forces the Big Red Monster backwards with the ferocity of his strikes and the crowd go wild cheering for him. Twisting Kane’s arm, Taker steps up the ropes and is quickly heading for the Old School move – a real risk in this type of match! Miz is the one who sees a chance for glory and he rushes over and knocks the ropes and Taker falls, one leg either side of the rope, a groan of pain goes up – particularly from the males – from the audience as Taker lands awfully. Kane rolls away as Miz tries to pelt the Phenom with his hands and feet desperate to eliminate the legendary Undertaker here. However, his punches make little mark and Undertaker suddenly strikes a back elbow that staggers Miz away and allows him to climb back over the top rope and into the ring. Angered by Miz’ efforts to take him out, Taker stalks after Cleveland’s own who, judging by the look on his face, fears for his life and takes off like a frightened rabbit. Taker follows him and Miz continues to run before trying to catch Taker out by sliding back into the ring. As he tries to dropkick Taker coming in, the Phenom dodges and drags Miz out of the ring and grips him tight around the throat on the outside of the ring. A look of incredible anger is on his face as he applies more and more pressure and Miz sinks to his knees struggling ... BAM! A boot to the head by Undertaker who is going to make Miz pay here. As Taker goes to work on Miz on the outside, Kane takes a moment to recover in the ring and he watches as Taker begins to destroy Miz. Mysterio and Angle have now paired off and they are working each other in the corner with Angle desperately trying to force the luchador over the top rope and failing as Rey wraps himself around the ropes to deny him. That leaves two men who have had major issues of late – Big Show and Kofi Kingston. They come together, Show smiling at the prospect of denting Kofi’s dreams, Kofi looking determined to remove this huge obstacle. Show swings a huge right hand and catches Kofi in the stomach before forcing him back into the corner and slapping him hard on the chest to the jeers of the crowd watching on. A loud crash on the outside of the ring takes attention as Miz is rammed shoulder first into the ring steps by Undertaker but Big Show focuses himself on Kingston once again. He slaps the chest of the young Ghanaian again before whipping him across the ring to the opposite corner of the ring ... SPLASH! Show hits a splash to Kofi in the corner and Kofi is reduced to his knees as he takes the full brunt of the World’s Largest Athlete. A scoop slam follows and Kofi is looking wobbly here ... He attempts a weak comeback with a few right hands but Show swats him away and then whips Kofi to the ropes ... he lifts Kofi up with ease and flapjacks him backwards, Kofi’s neck catches on the top rope and snaps his head back.

Show is in no mood for showing mercy and he then stands on Kofi’s chest deliberately as he tries to force the energy and the breath out of his foe. Kofi is gasping for air as Big Show shouts out “Alley-Oop” to the WWE Universe before he grabs Kofi by the neck. He lifts Kingston high as if he is going to powerbomb him and sets up for the Alley Oop move, a falling facebuster. Kofi though manages to wriggle clear and he drops behind the behemoth. A dropkick to the knee of the big man staggers him and he rushes off the ropes with the crowd getting behind him again ... Nooo! Show grabs Kofi by the throat ... CHOKE SLAM! KOFI SMASHES DOWN HARD ONTO THE MAT! Big Show appears to be enjoying this and he takes his time as he allows Kofi back up before whipping him to the corner again – surely not another 500 pound splash in the corner? It is! He goes for it but Kofi this time sees it coming and escapes so that Show slams hard into the turnbuckles instead. Staggered, Show spins round looking round for Kofi but the quickness of Kingston deceives him as he shoots up the ropes and stands on the top buckle ... Diving Crossbody! Kofi takes Show down and the crowd cheer as Kofi steps back waiting for Show to get up ... TROUBLE IN PARADISE! KOFI CONNECTS WITH THE TROUBLE IN PARADISE! Show staggers to the ropes and he drapes over the top rope, here is Kofi’s chance! Using all his strength, Kofi lifts Show’s leg up to the top rope and manages to perch it over ... Can Kofi Kingston do it? Can he eliminate the Big Show?


Kofi comes off the opposite rope and dropkicks the side of Big Show and he topples over the rope and down ...
– BIG SHOW HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


A huge reaction for Kofi as he drops to his knees in the centre of the ring and watches as Big Show angrily gets up with froth coming out of his mouth. Kofi does not have time to revel in his achievement, he needs to stay away from Big Show who is seething with anger over the elimination. The referees force Show away from the ring but Kofi is caught out by Kurt Angle who barrels into him from the side. Angle begins to hit Kofi with several different types of suplex and Kofi, still off guard, is unable to defend himself against it. The crowd are enjoying the match as it heads towards the conclusion – there are just six men left in the ring now. However, the crowd suddenly react near the titantron and the volume in the arena goes up. The camera switches over to the aisle and we see a grinning John Cena heading back out after his destruction of Randy Orton earlier tonight. Cena is taking jeers from the crowd but he is not bothered in the slightest, he is simply delighted with his work so far. He steps up the ring steps and removes his t-shirt. As the crowd near the ring get excited about the chance to catch his shirt, Cena looks over and goes to throw it ... but then tosses it down to the floor with a smirk. He steps into the ring and sneaks up behind Rey Mysterio who is completely unaware of his presence. Cena lifts Mysterio up onto his shoulders before Rey can react and he looks around the arena with a look of confidence in his eyes ... CENA HITS THE FU TO MYSTERIO! Mysterio crashes down onto the mat and Cena stands over him laughing. He waves across his face and motions to Mysterio that he can’t see him. Mysterio is down and out though, Cena drags him up and shoves him against the ropes. Waving across his face again, Cena is mocking Rey ...

Cena clotheslines Rey over the top rope and out of the Rumble!
– REY MYSTERIO HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


We’re down to six men now – Cena, Miz, Kane, Kofi, Angle and the Undertaker – as we head towards the climax of the match and the discovery of which man will be heading to the main event of WresstleMania 27 in Atlanta. A loud ‘Cena sucks!’ chant begins as we see Mysterio being helped out of the arena in shock at the way he was eliminated by his former friend, Cena. Taker drags Miz back into the ring after he laid down a real beating to the Cleveland native on the outside but as soon as he follows Miz in, his brother, the Devil’s Favourite Demon Kane, takes his chance and kicks Taker hard in the head. Miz scrambles out of the way and leaves Kane to it whilst Angle continues to lay the boot into Kofi. Cena stands at the ropes and watches the exit of Mysterio whilst taunting the Mexican and grinning round at the WWE Universe. Cena then heads over towards Angle and Kofi and looks to the Olympian before joining in with him in attacking Kofi who has annoyed him recently on SMACKDOWN. Miz rolls out of the ring and he sits up against the announce table recovering and surveying the scene in the ring. Taker and Kane are trading blows as they look to destroy each other and their history of late means it is getting very personal between them. Kane, starting to lose out to his brother, decides to resort to dirty tactics as he rakes the eyes of Taker and then rams his head into the turnbuckle several times. However, Undertaker is determined to beat the pain threshold and get some revenge over Kane and he simply stands up, his eyes bulging in anger. He ducks Kane’s attempted clothesline and hits the ropes, BAM! Big boot to the face of Kane and down he goes.

Undertaker cuts across his throat and the WWE Universe rise as he prepares to finish Kane off. Taker waits for Kane to get up but, as he is waiting, Taker’s attention is distracted by Cena who stands staring at him. There is a fusion of electricity around the arena as two of the WWE’s biggest legends come face to face. The distraction though costs Taker and Kane barges into him from behind. As Taker comes round, Kane grabs him by the throat ... CHOKE SLAM! KANE CHOKE SLAMS UNDERTAKER! Undertaker is down and Kane stands over him laughing maniacally. Jeers echo around the arena but then they turn to roars of excitement as Undertaker sits up. Kane uses his boot to knock Taker back down, he has seen all of this before. Taker is down again but then he sits up again. BAM! Kane knocks him down again with his boot but again Taker sits up a few moments later. Another attempt at knocking him back down by Kane but this time Taker catches his boot, twists it so that he is off balance and then gets to his feet quickly. Undertaker launches right hands to Kane that catch him in the throat area, he staggers Kane back and then grabs his arm – time for another attempt at Old School! Up goes Taker, balancing on the ropes, Kane cannot react this time and Taker drops a heavy arm across his back and shoulders. Kane staggers back to his feet and Taker scoops him up ... Huge anticipation around the arena, they are on their feet – here we go! TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER! UNDERTAKER DROPS HIS BROTHER ON HIS HEAD! Kane is flat out and not moving as Undertaker kneels over him – he’d normally pin his opponent now but not in the Rumble. Cena is now busy fighting it out with Miz who is back in the ring, Kofi and Angle are still fighting and Undertaker has his chance to take out the Big Red Monster once and for all. Kane gets to his knees and Undertaker forces him back to the corner, lifting his leg up over the top rope, looking to eliminate him. Kane tries to fight back but Undertaker is too strong here. Undertaker realises that he is struggling to heave his brother over the top rope but he reconsiders his approach, comes off the ropes ...


A Big Boot from Taker sends Kane crashing over the rope and down to the mat as the crowd go mad!
– KANE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Undertaker looks down on his brother who is down and out on the floor. He drops to his knee and cuts his throat, his tongue snaking out, he is delighted to have eliminated his brother. As Taker gets back up, it is Cena who comes over towards him and attacks. Cena has finally decided to show some guts and go after the biggest dog in the yard. As Undertaker is stumbling back, Cena taunts him and looks to be making out that he is the big dog on SMACKDOWN now. Cena goes to the top rope and waits for Undertaker to get to his knees before coming off the top, leg drop to the back of the Undertaker’s head and shoulders again, it drives the Phenom down into the mat. Cena senses a massive opportunity and he lifts Undertaker onto his shoulders, here it comes ... NO! Cena cannot hold Taker, he wriggles clear and comes off the ropes. Cena ducks the attempted clothesline and Undertaker is caught by a huge right hand from Kane who is back on the apron and dismayed at the way he was eliminated. Up onto Cena’s shoulders goes Undertaker again and Cena positions himself near the rope. This time though, Kane has hold of Undertaker as well to prevent him escaping. Cena goes for it ...

CENA FU’S UNDERTAKER OVER THE TOP ROPE WITH KANE’S ASSISTANCE!
– UNDERTAKER HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


The WWE Universe is in complete shock, Kane and John Cena have teamed up to eliminate Undertaker. With Undertaker down on the floor, Cena taunts him from the ring by waving his hand across his face – what a huge moment that was! Kane makes his way back down the aisle with a smug look on his face with his brother, the Deadman, in pain on the floor. Miz is the next to make his way over to Undertaker, he suffered a beating from Taker earlier and he takes his chance to rub it in. He tells Undertaker that he is going to win the Royal Rumble because he is the main man in the WWE! Undertaker responds by grabbing Miz by the throat to the delight of the fans at ringside ... CHOKE SLAM ON THE FLOOR OUTSIDE THE RING! Miz writhes in pain on the floor and Undertaker now decides to go after Kane who is still in view. Cena is stood in the ring and watching Taker leave, he arrogantly waves to him as he leaves. However, as Kane and Taker disappear, Cena’s face drops in shock as he notices something else. The WWE Universe are going crazy, they have seen it too ...

HERE COMES RANDY ORTON!

Orton is struggling but is heading for the ring, he is determined to get revenge on Cena and this could be his only chance to do it. Cena backs away to the centre of the ring and beckons to Orton to get in the ring if he dares. It appears that the Viper does dare and he rolls into the ring where he is met by the right boot of Cena. He kicks him over and over and it is clear that Orton is nowhere near 100% right. He has been in the Rumble since the very start and has maybe had ten minutes where he has not been fighting it out – and that was after Cena had beaten him senseless backstage. On the other hand, Cena is fairly fresh and he is in control of the situation despite his shock at seeing Orton return. Cena lifts Orton to his feet and then hits a succession of shoulder blocks on the run, the move that used to get him thousands of cheers in the past but doesn’t now. Cena then uses his patented Protoplex suplex to drop Orton on his back once more and then he stands over the Viper with a knowing look in his eyes. Boos erupt as Cena looks down onto the face of Orton and he waves his hands across his face = “You can’t see me!” – before lifting his head and doing the same to all the WWE Universe at ringside as well ... FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE FROM CENA TO ORTON! Cena steps back and waits for Orton to get up but his opponent knows him too well and, despite a draining past hour, Orton still has the energy to roll and scramble out of the ring. Cena looks annoyed but he follows his foe and stalks after him. He rushes up behind him and grabs his neck before running him towards the announce tables and flinging him into them. Orton flies over the top and collides heavily with the Spanish announce team who are knocked over in the mayhem. Angle and Miz are continuing to work on eliminating Kofi in the ring but the attention is on the outside as Cena and Orton’s feud gets real personal now. Cena drags Orton up and throws him onto the top of the announce table. He scrambles up as well and he looks pleased with whatever he is thinking of here. He lifts Orton onto his shoulders and positions himself to FU Orton through the other table. The crowd realise what is coming and scream in dismay, Cena sets himself but Orton fights his way out and shoves Cena hard. Flung forward, Cena jumps from one table to the other, turns to go back towards a wounded Orton ... RKO! ORTON RKO’S CENA ON THE ANNOUNCE TABLE! The announce table where Lawler and JR are commentating begins to break under the impact of Cena but doesn’t completely cave in. Cena is writhing in pain on top of Lawler’s notes and JR’s iPad that are still on the table ...

A ‘Holy Sh*t!’ chant breaks out and both Cena and Orton are down unable to appreciate the chant. It is Orton that finds the energy to slide off his table first and he stumbles to the corner of the ring where he proceeds to loosen the ring steps now as well. The crowd urge him on as Cena begins to move and fall off his announce table. Orton musters all the strength he has and lifts the steps up with both hands. Holding them in front of him, Orton waits for Cena to stand up and rushes over ... BAM! STEEL STEPS TO THE FACE OF CENA! But Orton took a whack as well, he was weakened so much that they slipped and connected with his face too, both men are down on the outside. The WWE Universe take a breath as the camera focuses back on Miz, Angle and Kofi in the ring, three of the five men left in the Rumble. By the look of Cena and Orton outside the ring, one of these three will be going to WrestleMania 27 as the Rumble winner! Miz and Angle have teamed well but they cannot eliminate the flexible Kingston as he wraps around the ropes like Spiderman! Frustration rears its head for the tiring Miz as he suddenly shoves Angle hard in the chest and complains about his efforts. Angle, despite his recent heel turn, doesn’t take kindly to this and he shoves Miz back. A fist fight ensues and the pair of them trade right hands for a while until ... suddenly, Kofi comes flying off the top turnbuckle, DOUBLE DIVING CROSSBODY! Kofi takes both Miz and Angle down with a crossbody from about twenty feet in the air – OK, OK, slight ‘wrestling’ exaggeration there! The crowd get behind Kofi, he now looks to be in with a chance of taking out one of the disliked two left in the ring. Kofi sets and it appears that Angle will be up to his feet first, he is fresher than Miz of course. Up gets Angle, Kofi spins ... TROUBLE IN PA ... No! Angle ducks! Kofi is stuck with his right leg over the top rope, can he get back in time?


Miz barges into Kofi as he is over the rope and eliminates him!
– KOFI KINGSTON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Huge boos in the arena, many wanted to see the underdog win the match but Miz has eliminated Kofi Kingston now and we are down to four men. Miz, Angle, Orton and Cena on the outside – although Orton is now scraping his way back into the ring. A disappointed Kofi is seen making his exit as Angle and Miz consider resuming their fight or going after Orton instead? However, Orton has no eyes for them, he has seen Cena scrambling back into the ring and coming through the ropes! Orton grabs Cena by the head and drags him in, feet positioned on the middle rope ... HANGMAN DDT! Orton appears rejuvenated here, he has found a second wind from somewhere even though he has now been in the Rumble for almost an hour. Miz heads over to Orton ready to pounce ... RKO! ORTON HITS AN RKO TO MIZ! Wow! Orton turns and sees Angle coming, he adjusts himself ... OLYMPIC SLAM! ORTON HITS ANGLE WITH THE OLYMPIC SLAM! That will not go down well with Kurt Angle of course who uses that move himself – namely the Angle Slam! Orton gets slowly to his feet and surveys the damage he has caused now, he waits and it is Angle who gets up first. The Olympic Gold Medal Winner is infuriated by Orton’s use of his move and he rushes towards Orton looking for a clothesline. Orton ducks, Angle hits the ropes and heads back towards the Viper ...

Orton lifts Angle into a flapjack move and untidily drops him back over the top rope!
– KURT ANGLE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


Huge cheers now for the Viper, he is in complete control! Angle lands with a huge bump on the outside and he is down and out and eliminated! We are down to three men! WHO WILL WIN THE RUMBLE? Orton looks down on Angle with a tired but arrogant smile on his face, he is ready to win the match now! BAM! Cena barrels into the Viper and catches him off-guard, Cena pounds away at Orton yet again. However, Orton is desperate to win, he begins to trade punches with Cena, the crowd cheering Orton’s strikes and jeering Cena’s. Orton goes for yet another RKO to Cena after he staggers him but Cena shoves Orton aside this time and the fist fight continues. Cena tries to set Orton up on his shoulders for the FU but again Orton wriggles clear, both these men are desperate to win! Suddenly, here is Miz, staggering and bewildered, confused and disorientated. He stumbles between Orton and Cena who look to each other. A thought flashes over both their eyes and Orton nods his agreement to Cena. Miz staggers towards Cena who lifts him on his shoulders ... Here we go! FU TO MIZ! CENA HITS THE FU! Miz crashes down on the mat, he is really in trouble now. A ceasefire has broken out between Cena and Orton, their fight has ended and Orton is now stalking Cleveland’s own. He waits and waits ... RKO! RKO TO MIZ! What a destruction of the Awesome One this is! Cena and Orton look to each other once more, they each grab Miz and drag him up to his feet ...

Orton and Cena throw Miz over the top rope and out of the Rumble!
– THE MIZ HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


FINAL TWO MEN!

Can Randy Orton win from Number 1 in the Royal Rumble?

Can John Cena destroy Orton’s dream and make good on his promise to win the Royal Rumble?

As Miz staggers away, Orton and Cena resume their fight, the crowd are on their feet now! Yet again, Cena goes for an FU but Orton, tired and running off the last dregs of adrenaline, manages to wriggle clear again! He whips Cena to the ropes, snap scoop slam and Cena’s back crashes down to the mat. Slowly, Orton gets up, he can’t get to Cena as quick as he wants to.He calculates which limb to target and then he stomps down on Cena’s right knee. Round Cena he walks, striking and stomping every exposed limb of SMACKDOWN’s last survivor in the Rumble. Orton looks down at Cena and a look passes his eyes, the WWE Universe understand. He retreats to the corner of the ring, Orton stands in the corner holding the ropes and winding himself up, bringing himself to boiling point ... Cena slowly gets to his knees, he is down on all fours and struggling up, head exposed, here is Orton’s chance ... Orton lets go of the ropes and goes to strike with the Punt to Cena’s skull ... Will he knock Cena cold and win the Rumble?

Noooo! Wait a minute! What is Kurt Angle doing? Angle trips Orton as he starts to head towards Cena to hit the Punt. Orton trips and stumbles down to his knees before turning and glaring at Angle on the outside. Orton gets to his feet, he is seething with rage. He looks down at Angle from the ring and talks trash to him. Angle is angry still, that is clear, he jumps up on the apron and Orton goes for him. On the ring apron, Angle fights Orton over the top rope, Orton in the ring and fighting hard ... The crowd are screaming at Orton but he is too busy fighting with Angle ... Behind you, Randy! Behind you! BEHIND YOU!


Cena sneaks up behind Orton, lifts his legs up and tosses him over the top rope!
– RANDY ORTON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –


WINNER
JOHN CENA
(61:36)

JIM ROSS
Orton is up and ovvverrrr ... Cena! Cena! Cena wins the Rumble!

Orton sinks to his knees on the outside with his hands on his head as the head referee slides into the ring and raises the arm of the Cena who is now heading for WrestleMania 27 as the winner of the Royal Rumble match. The referee has to help Cena to stand as he is a little beaten after the Rumble but he realises what has happened and smirks with his hand raised as his music, ‘My Time is Now!’, begins to blare out around the arena ...

JIM ROSS
At WrestleMania 27, King, it will be John Cena challenging for either the WWE or World Championship!

JERRY LAWLER
Thank goodness he is on SMACKDOWN, JR, he’s going to be unbearable about this! Poor Orton!

Cena locks eyes on Orton who is in despair on the outside of the ring, the number one entrant into the Rumble came so close to winning the whole thing. As the Viper looks up at Cena in the ring, Cena laughs and points up to the WrestleMania 27 sign which angers Orton once again. Orton gets to his feet and he begins to climb into the ring but the referees swarm around him and begin to hold him back. Cena continues to stand in the ring and taunt the Viper but he cannot get into the ring due to the referees. Finally, Orton breaks clear and heads through the ropes but Cena makes his exit and heads off into the aisle as Cena’s music fades out. Orton jumps back through the ropes and makes to chase Cena down the aisle towards the titantron but yet again the referees hold him back and are now joined by security who also stand between Cena and Orton.

JIM ROSS
Remember, King, Orton was told he cannot touch Cena unless it is in an official match!

JERRY LAWLER
The rivalry between these two is so intense, Orton cannot be punished if he gets his hands on Cena right here!

As Orton is held back from Cena – stood near the entrance into the arena – the WWE owner Chip Butty makes an appearance beside Cena. He says something to Cena before heading over towards Orton who is still being restrained by security. Butty stands in earshot of Orton and he says something that we can’t hear but it appears to calm Orton down although he still looks incredibly annoyed ...

JIM ROSS
An incredible effort from Orton, he just came up short but it will be Cena who heads for WrestleMania 27 to challenge for the title ...

As the security shepherd Orton past Cena, Kurt Angle – the man who caused the damage to Orton for Cena to eliminate him – heads past too. Orton sees him coming and quick as a flash hits an RKO to the Olympic Hero!

JERRY LAWLER
RKO! RKO!

Orton stands over the fallen Angle as Cena makes his way backwards back towards the ring and stares down the aisle towards the man he eliminated to win the Rumble. Loud boos echo around the arena as Cena slides back into the ring and begins his celebrations again with his music restarting as well. As Cena stands pointing to the WrestleMania sign, SMACKDOWN General Manager Michael Cole slides into the ring and congratulates his man on winning the Rumble for SMACKDOWN ...

JIM ROSS
An intense night here in Cleveland, Ohio, Wade Barrett and CM Punk retain their titles, we have new Tag Team Champions in the British Empire and John Cena has won the Rumble, he will head to WrestleMania in ten weeks time to challenge for a title. Good night everybody ...

As the Royal Rumble logo pops up in the corner of the screen to signal the end of the PPV, Cena is shown with his hand raised by Cole as he continues his celebrations and the camera makes sure, as you’d expect, to include the WrestleMania 27 logo in the background ...




I really, really hope you enjoyed the show, it was a humdinger of a PPV to write. I’m sorry it took so long, the Rumble match seemed to go on forever and ever and I got very bogged down in the middle of it, i.e. 11-20. I’ve tried to forward a lot of feuds in the Rumble with some of the returning guys and some of the guys who were previously feuding. Next up, Elimination Chamber in four weeks time! I’m incredibly proud to write a really, really in depth Rumble so please, please, please leave some feedback! Now, I can start planning how to get to Elimination Chamber! Woooooooooo! GCB

p.s. If you think about doing a Rumble match, my advice – don’t! God, it takes some doing!
 
#107 ·
Jam's Review​
WOOO! It's finally here man. It'll be live feedback so yeah, here we go!

Interesting that you had the ladder match go on first. I think it's a pretty good one to go with since you'll have it out of the way. However, I kind of wasn't feeling this match. It was as if each guy threw all they had at one another but every time, the guy would recover rather quickly. Maybe it was a little low on details but with the Royal Rumble Match having to be written, it may have burnt you out. I did like that spot where Bryan performed the German Suplex on Dibiase from the ladder, that was cool. That part where you added in that Gabriel was watching who his opponent would be was good too as it really makes the belt something credible since Gabriel doesn't want to lose it. Hopefully after this loss, you're setting up Bryan for bigger and better things while building a new midcard or potentially main event star in Dibiase.

Glad to see that the Divas are getting some attention. Still not sure about the pairing of Kharma and McCool since they're pretty good solo but I'll just roll with it for now. The Divas Division is surely improving in this thread, slowly but surely.

Now for the NXT stuff. I like how your go about your NXT business. JBL is a great choice for a mentor and so is the Rock. JBL's team is superior to Rocky's team but you could pull out some surprises. What I take from that battle royal is that some, maybe all of those guys on NXT are here to stay. They just needed some air time and this was a way to do it. With the winner being Kaval, it's really interesting to see where you go from here. You had some physical interactions between the mentors and even Santino plays a part, all storyline going on here which makes me think everyone is here to stay.

This sure was a battle for the WWE Title. I kind of thought that Barrett would have called off his Nexus here and prevailed giving him the credibility. Kind of dislike Barrett a little now that you didn't use this chance to really build him up here. But I think that you have something in store for this so I wouldn't count this out just yet. I just thought that at the Royal Rumble, it would've been the perfect place and time for Barrett to be given the rub from HHH. I guess this whole idea where HHH buries talent exists here too? Lol. But it was a good written match GCB. This is not negative comments at all, just giving my opinion. And whaaat?! Y2J? OHHHH YEAAAAH!

Underhanded tactics sure are the trend right now just like JR said. Your tag team division is certainly going places and with you crowning new tag champions, I fully expect you to give us a show with your division. Don't mind the new tag team champions, it was kind of obvious that they would win but I also thought that the Broskis would've had a better shot with their winning streak and all. Not much to say about the tag team match, but good job here. Wanting more, but I'm sure you'll deliver on that.

No feel good moment here for Christian? Aww, but that's really the right decision as Punk needed to retain here. Having Cole come out made me think that either Christian would be far away from the World Title or he'll be even closer, don't know yet. And with how the ending went, it's all just cliffhanger here, and I don't mind that. This was definitely match of the night for me, but maybe the Rumble will change that. And good face time for Miz here. Hmm, maybe he really could win since you had him be interviewed. I'm really lost at who will win the Rumble, good job, haha.

Wow, what a Rumble. While I don't agree with Rocky being in it, since you could've used to for another purpose like putting over someone, I guess you didn't it to further the angst that he has with JBL. All the surprise entrants were really good. Interesting to see HBK come back but he surely wasn't going to win. The two people who I thought had the best showing were Edge and Miz. You've furthered their own storylines with the way that they got eliminated, which is all we can really ask for. I commend you on doing a Rumble match, it must've been a real pain. Seeing that Orton came #1, I was checking back and re-reading everything to see that he didn't get eliminated yet. What a tease you had with the final two being Cena and Orton, well played GCB, well played. I kind of did not like how Orton was eliminated, but this sets him up for something with Kurt Angle.

With all that said, I still don't think that this way your best Pay-Per-View. I still think that Survivor Series was your best and maybe you'd agree too. Up next is Elimination Chamber, you've got a lot of feuds that you can go with. It's just a matter of pulling the trigger. You set everything up nicely and thinking of it, you could go a ton of ways with Cena here. I definitely am amp'd to see what you come up with in the fallout of RAW. Kudos GCB. GREAT, GREAT JOB.
 
#108 ·
A recap show here, needed to get over this one and get it posted. NXT remains a detailed recap, SMACKDOWN will return to being a fully written show as will RAW after this one. Just needed to get this out of the way.



Monday January 24th, 2011 | U.S. Bank Arena, Cincinnati, Ohio

After the excitement of last night’s Royal Rumble PPV, Monday Night RAW travelled from Cleveland to Cincinnati to begin the build towards the Elimination Chamber PPV in four weeks time as well as the opening steps on the Road to WrestleMania 27. Last night’s PPV saw Wade Barrett retain his WWE Championship in controversial circumstances as Nexus conspired with him to eventually finish the challenger, Triple H. Despite a SMACKDOWN superstar winning the Royal Rumble in John Cena, there was talk that Cena may appear on RAW which set alarm bells ringing regarding the state of mind of Randy Orton after he managed to hang in the match from first entrant to final elimination. Unfortunately, Kurt Angle once again proceeded to get involved and it remains to be seen whether or not there will be more to come for the American Hero regarding Orton. Still in his home state of Ohio, the Money in the Bank contract holder, The Miz, was bound to have words of wisdom whilst we also have a new US Championship Number 1 contender crowned in Ted DiBiase – would he be looking to cash in that chance against US Champion Justin Gabriel sooner rather than later?

After the pyro explosions had died down, Triple H wasted no time in heading out towards the ring with plenty clearly on his mind. He didn’t look happy and it proved to be the case as he slammed Wade Barrett for being the worst WWE Champion of all time and demanded a rematch with the Brit. Challenging Barrett to prove he is a worthy champion, Triple H called him out to accept a match tonight for the WWE Championship, an idea that the Cincinnati crowd loved the thought of. However, they were soon to be disappointed when Kurt Angle headed out their way instead of the champion. Immediately, Triple H warned Angle that if he came down and got into the ring, he would hurt him. Wisely, Angle remained on the stage and began to mock Triple H for failing to win the title when he had his big chance. The Olympian stated that Triple H had “had his chance” and that the Game should now head to the back of the queue to allow a guy who had a successful Rumble to take his chance at the gold instead. This comment brought on the RAW General Manager Shawn Michaels, who didn’t stay on the stage, and he joined his friend in the ring. HBK told Triple H that unfortunately he had had his chance but he would get another before explaining that there would be four matches tonight to determine four RAW superstars who would face each other next week for the right to challenge Barrett at the Elimination Chamber PPV. HBK followed this by announcing that the RAW Elimination Chamber match would determine the Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 27 after SMACKDOWN won the Rumble. Next week’s three losers will be given the first three spots in the Chamber match with three other places up for grabs in Qualifying Matches. Sensing that he would be involved, Triple H asked about his chance that HBK had just mentioned. To the delight of Triple H, HBK announced that the main event would be Triple H vs. Kurt Angle with the winner to be in next week’s Fatal Four Way.

TAG MATCH: Major Broskis Zack Ryder & Curt Hawkins vs. Carlito & RVD
After losing their Tag Team Championships last night at the Rumble, Hawkins and Ryder seemed pumped up to get back on track as the match began with RVD and one of the surprise entrants in the Rumble, Carlito. Initially, the former Tag Champions seemed to be on course and came so close to victory when Ryder hit the Broski Boot and Hawkins narrowly missed with the Heat Seeking Elbow. However, a sudden Backstabber to Hawkins by Carlito changed the momentum and RVD took down Ryder with a series of kicks followed by the Frog Splash to earn the three count. WINNERS: Carlito & RVD (7:35) >>> After the match, a disappointed Curt Hawkins again turned his back on Ryder and walked away, a disgusted look on his face. What does this mean for the former Tag Team Champions? Carlito grabbed a microphone and thanked RVD for partnering him tonight and then announced that he had signed a new deal with the WWE and would be wrestling on RAW and SMACKDOWN in the coming weeks before announcing which brand he would join at the Elimination Chamber.

Backstage, Josh Mathews interviewed the new Number 1 contender for the US Championship, Ted DiBiase. DiBiase, who beat Daniel Bryan in a Ladder match last night, was understandably delighted with the win and declared that he was now on the path to superstardom in the WWE. He announced that he would decide later on when he would challenge Justin Gabriel for the US Championship but promised it would be soon and that he would become the US Champion when he did. The camera switched to show that Justin Gabriel had been watching all along and he looked amused by what he was hearing. However, that amusement left when he noticed the arrival of his former Nexus team-mates in the room with him. Confronting Heath Slater, David Otunga, Ezekiel Jackson and Skip Sheffield over their ‘defence’ of him at the Rumble, Gabriel demanded that they stopped and said that he had left Nexus and didn’t need them no more. He held up the US Championship as proof and told them to stay out of his way for good. Although they looked annoyed at first, the Nexus minions ended up smiling to each other as Gabriel left the room.

SINGLES MATCH: Chris Jericho vs. Ted DiBiase
Fresh off his win at the Rumble last night, DiBiase faced off against the returning Chris Jericho, complete with his old Y2J persona, looking to prove to the world that he was still one of the big stars in the WWE despite his recent absence. In the end, Jericho proved too strong for DiBiase as he locked in the Walls of Jericho and forced the Fortunate Son DiBiase to tap out. WINNER: Chris Jericho (6:32)

The crowd then went wild as Randy Orton made his way out into the arena – another WWE superstar who looked anything but happy following last night. Orton declared that he was sick of guys sucker punching him from behind instead of facing him one on one, face to face, like men. Citing Cena’s actions last night and the assistance he had from Kurt Angle, Orton declared that he had anger building up inside him that was eventually going to have to be allowed out. Orton announced that Angle would have to wait but there was an RKO coming his way very soon; first of all, he would be dealing with Cena once and for all whether Chip Butty liked it or not. Orton quoted Cena’s prediction that he would go unbeaten to WrestleMania and then declared that he believed him – when he receives his punt to the skull, he’ll spend most of the time in the hospital wing anyway. Suddenly, Cena appeared live on the titantron in his home town of Boston, Massachusetts. He taunted Orton for his bitter comments and then told him that there would be no punt to his skull due to the no violence stipulation still in effect. Cena informed Orton that he would be on RAW next week with a proposition for him.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER: The Miz vs. Randy Orton
After Cena’s announcement and a commercial, Orton’s match against Miz was scheduled and it proved to be a great chance for Orton to begin to unleash some of the anger coursing through him. However, he was unable to hit the RKO to Miz who was in no mood to let Orton have a routine win tonight in his home state. Eventually, Orton seemed to have Miz in place and he was bashing his fists on the mat in preparation for an RKO when Cena’s music suddenly began to echo around the arena. Orton jumped up and waited for the arrival of his foe but he had to wait ... and wait ... and then Miz hit the Skull Crushing Finale before hooking the leg to secure the win! WINNER: The Miz (7:57) >>> Miz quickly got out of the way of Orton, who looked ready to explode, safe in the knowledge that he was now guaranteed a spot in next week’s Number 1 contender match on RAW. As Orton looked around the arena in anger, Cena reappeared on the titantron laughing and declared that Orton was utterly predictable. Cena reaffirmed that he would be on RAW next week and that he would see Orton when he arrived.

Backstage, General Manager HBK and Chris Jericho were sat at a table with a slight awkwardness between them after Jericho’s actions a couple of months previous. However, a handshake followed between both men and Jericho signed a new contract to wrestle on RAW before HBK guaranteed him a chance to earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber match coming in four weeks time. Rudely barging in, Edge took the attention of the General Manager and demanded to know when he would get his chance. Edge suggested that HBK now knew how good a wrestler he was after the pair of them crossed paths in the Rumble and suggested that he be simply given the title match instead and he would forget about the way he was eliminated. HBK refused and told Edge that he was proud to have played a huge part in eliminating Edge as it showed he still had it. Finally, HBK announced that Edge would have a chance to earn a place in the Fatal Four Way next week as he would later go one on one with John Morrison.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER: Daniel Bryan vs. Sheamus
With Miz already guaranteed his spot in the Fatal Four Way next week, former US Champion Bryan was looking to cause a mini upset as he went one on one with the Celtic Warrior, Sheamus. With Hornswoggle ringside as usual, Sheamus simply dominated the match and seemed moments away from victory at any given time. However, he could not land the Brogue Kick or the Celtic Cross and somehow ended up in the Le Bell Lock instead. With no choice but to tap out, Sheamus gave up a title opportunity to the much smaller Bryan and looked incredibly annoyed that he did so. WINNER: Daniel Bryan (6:49) >>> After the match, Bryan celebrated his win but was dragged off the turnbuckle by an irate Sheamus who proceeded to beat him down in anger. With Hornswoggle handing him a chair, Sheamus jammed the edge into the ribs of Bryan over and over and left him laid out in the ring needing medical attention as RAW moved on.

In the Nexus locker room, Wade Barrett and the other four members of Nexus were meeting with Barrett revealing his agreement with the words of Kurt Angle earlier – Triple H had his chance and failed. Barrett seemed to be encouraging his Nexus team to make sure Angle won tonight but then in walked Shawn Michaels with several security men. HBK informed Nexus that they would not be interfering tonight unless they wanted to feel the wrath of suspensions and the stripping of WWE Championships in the case of Barrett. HBK told Nexus to go home and leave Triple H and Angle to fight it out like men. The security began to usher a reluctant Nexus away and out of the arena to ensure no interference in the main event.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER: Edge vs. John Morrison
An even contest with both men looking desperate to join Miz and Daniel Bryan in the Fatal Four Way match for the Number 1 contendership next week. Both had their chances to put the other away and missed but then Edge seemed to have the match won when he hit the Impaler DDT on Morrison and got the 3-count from the referee before he noticed the foot of Morrison on the bottom rope. Edge was upset but the right decision had been made. Moments later, Edge missed with a Spear and hit the buckles, Morrison drop kicked him and then hit the Chuck Kick before hitting Starship Pain. Controversy followed as the referee made the 3-count again but failed to spot Edge grabbing the rope with his right hand and it would be Morrison who would win the match and head for a shot at the WWE Championship next week on RAW. WINNER: John Morrison (8:04) >>> Edge was extremely unhappy with the decision but the referee remained adamant that he had not seen it and refused to reverse the call to the delight of the WWE Universe.

Back in the GM office, Michelle McCool and Kharma were the latest visitors. HBK was telling them that any more random beatdowns like the ones handed to Maryse and Layla last night would not be tolerated and they were lucky to not be suspended and fined. McCool turned on the charm and apologised to HBK before asking him if he had heard back from somebody and if he had an answer or not. HBK answered negatively and said he had heard nothing at all. As McCool left disappointed, an irate Edge reappeared in the GM office. The Rated R Superstar slammed the bias being shown towards him from the General Manager and the officials and he implored HBK to reverse the decision – refusal from HBK who said that the referee’s decision was final and it would be Miz vs. Daniel Bryan vs. John Morrison vs. the winner of the Triple H – Angle match later tonight in next week’s Fatal Four Way.

Kurt Angle was then interviewed by Josh Mathews as he prepared to head out for the main event. Angle claimed that he wasn’t interested in any help from Nexus and that he did not fear Triple H. Angle reminded everybody about the 3 I’s – intelligence, intensity and integrity – and claimed that they would help him defeat Triple H tonight. Saying that he didn’t need the cheers of the WWE Universe, Angle claimed that his time had come and that he would head to WrestleMania as the WWE Champion ... regardless of Nexus being in or out the arena.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER: Kurt Angle vs. Triple H
Triple H attempted to make Kurt Angle pay for his betrayal last week as he controlled the early stages of the match and appeared to be heading towards victory. However, Angle came more and more into the match as his wrestling ability told and he then went on to control the match as he used a variety of suplexes. Unfortunately for him, it didn’t appear to be enough as Triple H managed to set up for a Pedigree to finish the match. However, a mystery man with red, white and blue trunks headed out and jumped onto the ring apron to cause a distraction. With the referee and Triple H distracted, another man with red, white and blue tights jumped in behind and hit a German Suplex to the unsuspecting Triple H as the referee continued to order the first man away. Having seen nothing, the referee turned to see Angle hit the Angle Slam to Triple H before making the cover and getting the 3-count to win the match. WINNER: Kurt Angle (11:25) >>> Who on earth were the two mystery men who just helped Angle to victory there? Angle appeared to know them as they raise his arm in celebration as he backed away up the ramp with the knowledge that next week he will face Miz, Daniel Bryan and Morrison for the right to challenge for the WWE Championship.
 
#109 ·

*** PREVIEW ***

KAVAL HAS IMMUNITY FROM ELIMINATION!

In the NXT Battle Royal at the Royal Rumble PPV, it was Kaval who was able to outlast all the other seven NXT competitors and earn himself a double immunity from the first two eliminations. Despite being ranked 8th in the early NXT rankings, Kaval can no longer be eliminated until the third elimination which means he is guaranteed to survive past the Elimination Chamber PPV. With next week’s NXT scheduled to include the first NXT Elimination Match, all the competitors will be desperate to avoid 6th and 7th place in the rankings, positions which would ensure a place in the Elimination Match next week. Currently, Drew McIntyre, R-Truth, Dolph Ziggler and MVP sit in the 4th to 7th places in the rankings and the WWE board of directors has indicated that these four men should meet in a Fatal Four Way tonight to fight it out for those ranking positions. Can Ziggler and MVP battle their way out of the danger zone? Find out on NXT!

THE ROCK AND JBL SET FOR A CONFRONTATION!

JBL is not a happy bunny. Not only did Kaval, the so-called ‘runt’ of NXT, earn himself two immunities from elimination in the Battle Royal, JBL’s involvement in the Royal Rumble match was shortlived as he ate a Rock Bottom from the other NXT mentor, the Rock! Tonight, JBL has demanded that Rock heads to the ring for a confrontation as the heat rises between these two in the battle for NXT superiority. Will JBL be able to win the war of words with the Great One?

NEW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS!

At the Battle Royal, the British Empire team of William Regal and Mason Ryan managed to overcome the challenge of Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins, as well as four other teams, to secure the Tag Team Championships in their first PPV appearance. Tonight on NXT, the new champions, accompanied by Finlay, will face the former champions, the Major Broskis, in a Tag Team Championship rematch. Will Ryder and Hawkins be able to overcome their recent problems to regain their titles?

MICHELLE McCOOL AND KHARMA SET TO EXPLAIN THEIR ACTIONS!

After their vicious attack on the Divas Champion, Maryse, and the former champion, Layla, at the Royal Rumble, Michelle McCool and Kharma will address their critics as they appear on NXT tonight. With many people angered by their assault on the other two Divas, McCool and Kharma have requested time to speak ahead of McCool’s match against the beautiful Kelly Kelly. Will Michelle and her bodyguard have a valid reason for their attack?

***CONFIRMED ***

TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
William Regal and Mason Ryan (w/Finlay) vs. Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins

Michelle McCool (w/Kharma) vs. Kelly Kelly

NXT RANKINGS FATAL 4-WAY MATCH (#4, #5, #6, #7)
Drew McIntyre vs. R-Truth vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. MVP

***** JOIN US FOR NXT THIS TUESDAY! *****
 
#110 ·
January 25th, 2011: NXT



Tuesday January 25th, 2011 | Broadbent Arena, Louisville, Kentucky

RECENTLY ON NXT:
A video package airs first that details the recent developments on NXT as the show begins to move forwards and the participants begin to get into position. Santino’s interference in the NXT main event last week between the top ranked participants, Great Khali and Vladimir Kozlov, is shown with snippets of Kozlov’s earlier attack on the Italian. Moving on, the video focuses on the NXT Battle Royal at the Royal Rumble PPV last Sunday night. The focus switches to the relationships between JBL and Kaval as well as his relationship with the other NXT mentor, The Rock. Highlights of the Battle Royal are shown before we see Rock hit the Rock Bottom on JBL and the subsequent elimination of Drew McIntyre by Kaval to earn the ‘runt’ of NXT a double immunity from elimination.

***** WILD AND YOUNG *****

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***




The crowd are looking excited over the latest episode of NXT as the yellow pyro explodes around the entrance. Striker and Mathews babble on excitedly about the latest developments with Kaval earning himself immunity from the first two eliminations despite his position of eighth in the NXT rankings at the moment. Striker reminds us about the NXT rankings and they flash up on screen ...



... before Mathews informs us that the first elimination will take place next week, the loser of a match between the two lowest ranked men in the competition that aren’t called Kaval will determine the first man eliminated from the show and the WWE.


*** EXPLODING HELMETS ***

*** KAVAL ***

Kaval heads out to a great reception, he looks in a fabulous mood after his victory at the Rumble. Once he is in the ring, he calls for a microphone and he begins to speak about how he has proved JBL wrong and now deserves respect from his mentor. He invites JBL to come out and shake his hand so that they can move on past this and work together which gets a few boos from the WWE Universe. However, Kaval waits and gets no response from JBL and moves on. He says that JBL can try whatever he wants, he is going to prove to the world that it isn’t the size of the dog in the fight that is important, it is the size of the fight in the dog. He vows that he is going to shock the WWE by winning NXT at WrestleMania 28 and then he will cash in his WWE Championship or World Championship match successfully as well. The crowd like the sound of this and they cheer for the underdog as he looks around at them with a look of determination. Kaval continues by saying that even though he is the smallest man in NXT, he believes that he can beat anybody and he intends to prove it tonight. He makes a public challenge to the NXT Rank 1, the Great Khali, to face him tonight one on one. Kaval awaits the response until ...

*** IF YA SMELL WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN’ ***

*** THE ROCK ***

A huge ovation for the Great One himself as he struts out with a huge smile on his face. He strides to the ring and then poses on the corner turnbuckles looking around the arena as the flashlights on the cameras pop. Rock takes a microphone and turns to face Kaval who is stood waiting for him to finish his entrance. Rock congratulates Kaval on winning the Battle Royal last night and tells him that he deserved to win in the end. Rock tells him that his luck ends tonight though and accepts his challenge to Khali – who is of course mentored by Rock. Rock tells Kaval that Khali is the man who has impressed him most so far on Team Rock and that he will destroy Kaval tonight. Kaval smirks at this and responds by telling Rock that he has spent his whole career so far proving people wrong. Tonight, he will prove Rock wrong as well.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

THIS FRIDAY: FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!
Royal Rumble winner John Cena returns to SMACKDOWN this Friday!
*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

*** CHAVITO ARDIENTE ***

*** CHAVO GUERRERO ***

NXT returns with Chavo Guerrero posing in the ring on the ropes after making his entrance. Matt Striker informs us that Chavo is currently ranked Number 3 in the NXT Rankings but is looking to make his move up the NXT ladder tonight.

*** PAIN ***

*** VLADIMIR KOZLOV ***

Out walks a focused and mean looking Vladimir Kozlov who is not impressed with recent events, clearly. After his failure to defeat Great Khali last week, thanks to Santino Marella, and his failure to win the Battle Royal, Kozlov walks powerfully to the ring and seems intent on taking out his anger on somebody tonight. Mathews reminds us that these two men are ranked #2 and #3 and, therefore, the winner will be ranked #2 at the end of the match with the loser ranked #3. Can Chavo Guerrero defeat the Russian and take his second place in the rankings?

MATCH 1 | SINGLES MATCH
CHAVO GUERRERO (3) vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV (2)


In the early stages, Chavo struggles to make an impression as he is thwarted by the Russian’s power counters at every turn. It appears that Kozlov is all set for victory after he hits his trapping headbutts over and over to the Mexican’s chest and then suplexes him down to the mat. Guerrero kicks out of the pin though and then he launches a comeback that leads him to the top rope ready to hit a Frog Splash. With the crowd fully behind him, Chavo climbs the ropes and then leaps off looking to hit the Frog Splash but Kozlov rolls away and then hits a Battering Ram headbutt to the chest of Chavo. Kozlov then moves up to the top rope as well and hits a DIVING HEADBUTT that connects with the shoulder of the Mexican before he makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **


WINNER
VLADIMIR KOZLOV (6:28)


Vladimir Kozlov stands up looking out at the WWE Universe with a look of defiance in his eyes as he reflects on the dominant victory that he just achieved. Striker reminds us that this victory means that the Russian retains his second place ranking in the NXT competition. As the Russian stands looking down on him, Chavo rolls out clutching his shoulder and out of the ring looking disappointed but Mathews reminds us that he is comfortable in third spot and is not in any danger of being eliminated from the competition next week. Mathews repeats the announcement that next week will see the first NXT elimination. He wonders whether or not Kozlov will be happy with being safe in second place right now but Striker suggests that he’d prefer to be in top spot instead ...

*** LA VITTORIA E MIA ***

*** SANTINO MARELLA ***

Suddenly, here comes Santino Marella!

The Italian is holding a microphone and he stays on stage as Kozlov looks towards him with an angry look on his face – Santino was the man who cost Kozlov top spot last week. Santino tells Kozlov that last week was the first part of his revenge for Santino turning his back on him when NXT began a few weeks ago. Kozlov continues to stare a hole right through Santino but he isn’t backing down from the stare and he continues on by challenging Kozlov to a match next week on NXT ... a Street Fight! Kozlov looks to Santino for a moment before smiling a sadistic smile and nodding his head ... It’s on! Next week, on NXT, Santino Marella vs. Vladimir Kozlov in a Street Fight!

The camera head backstage where JBL is sat in Team JBL’s locker room looking annoyed and subdued. He is sat back on the bench when Drew McIntyre walks in and sits beside him. McIntyre tells his mentor that he doesn’t need to worry – Kaval might be immune from elimination for now but he will not win NXT whilst he is around. JBL continues to stare straight ahead saying nothing. McIntyre continues and tells JBL that what Rock did to him at the Rumble was completely uncalled for and that he will take revenge on the so called Great One when he gets his chance. JBL turns and looks at McIntyre but doesn’t smile, he simply stands up and walks away as McIntyre looks after him with a look of concern on his face.


*** HOLLA HOLLA ***

*** KELLY KELLY ***

The camera returns to the ring where Kelly Kelly is in the ring and saluting the crowd ...

*** NOT ENOUGH FOR ME ***

*** MICHELLE McCOOL ***
(w/Kharma)


Out heads the pair of Michelle McCool and Kharma to a lot of hatred from the crowd after their vicious assault on Layla and Maryse at the Royal Rumble PPV. However, McCool doesn’t appear bothered by the jeers and she laughs them off as she approaches the ring. Kharma follows behind looking menacing and sizing up Kelly as she nears the ring – this appears to be a tough ask for Kelly Kelly tonight. Michelle heads around the ring and takes a microphone before she gets into the ring. She looks up at Kelly and tells her to stand back and wait for a moment, she has a few words for the WWE Universe first. She says that Kharma and her attacked Layla and Maryse on Sunday because they wanted to make a statement. McCool claims that she is the most dominant Diva here in the WWE and that she intends to prove it by defeating Maryse and winning her Divas Championship. She also suggests that the WWE hierarchy are scared of giving her a shot at the title because they know that once she is the champion, nobody else will have a chance ...

*** HOPPIPOLLA ***

*** CHIP BUTTY ***

The WWE owner heads out onto the stage and he looks down towards the ring where Michelle McCool is still stood with the microphone across the ring from Kelly. Kharma is still on the outside of the ring and she is still staring at Kelly and making her feel uncomfortable. Butty has a microphone and he speaks to McCool directly – he tells her that she makes a good case for her to be given a Divas Championship match but she cannot just be handed one after her actions last Sunday night. McCool says that that proves it – the WWE hierarchy don’t want her to be given a chance at the title. Butty smiles and says he has a challenge for McCool instead – she will face a different Diva each week, starting with Kelly tonight, if she can go unbeaten until Elimination Chamber then she will face Layla and Maryse in a Triple Threat match for the Divas Championship. If not, then Layla and Maryse will face each other instead. McCool looks pleased with this announcement and looks confident ...

MATCH 2 | SINGLES MATCH
KELLY KELLY vs. MICHELLE McCOOL (w/Kharma)


After the announcement of Chip Butty, Kelly Kelly decides that her best chance of a victory is to attack from the off and she catches McCool off guard with a shot to the shoulders and back. As Kelly goes on the attack, she hits her ‘stinkface’ to McCool in the corner and then looks to hit a series of kicks to the grounded McCool. However, Kharma’s intimidation from the outside pays off as Kelly’s eye is on her for a moment and this is all the chance Michelle needs as she kicks out Kelly’s knee and goes to work. From that point on, the result is never in doubt as McCool dominates throughout and then hits the Wings of Love to crash Kelly’s face into the mat before making the 3-count ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **


WINNER
MICHELLE McCOOL (2:32)


After Kelly is pinned to the mat, Michelle stands up and arrogantly looks out around the WWE Universe with a smile on her face. She holds up one finger to signal that she has now defeated one Diva and then holds up three more fingers to signal what she has left to earn an Elimination Chamber Divas Championship match. Into the ring rolls Kharma and she stands over the fallen Kelly Kelly as McCool backs away a little. Kharma reaches down and drags Kelly up by the throat and forces her into the corner. Kelly is looking worried as she realises she is in trouble before Kharma whips her across the ring into the corner and then hits a running splash against the turnbuckle. Kelly slumps but Kharma reaches down to drag her up again and, holding her by the throat with two hands, she lifts Kelly up high before planting her down on her back with a double handed choke slam that crashes the blonde beauty down with bang. Kharma then rolls out of the ring and escorts McCool back up the ramp as NXT heads into a commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

WRESTLEMANIA 27
68 days to go!
*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

NXT returns with MVP heading out to the ring ...

*** I’M COMIN’ ***

*** MVP ***

As MVP heads towards the ring ready for action, Striker describes the stipulation involved in this match. The winner will be ranked fourth whilst the man who takes the final pinfall or taps out will fall to seventh spot – therefore guaranteeing themselves a place in the NXT Elimination match next week regardless of where Kaval ends the night. The other two spots will filled by the other two participants in the order they currently stand ...

*** I AM PERFECTION ***

*** DOLPH ZIGGLER ***

Accompanied by Vickie Guerrero, Ziggler heads towards the ring showing off to the WWE Universe as he nears the ring. Mathews suggests that Dolph’s relationship with the Rock has held him back so far from being one of the top players here in NXT and that he needs to sort out these issues as soon as he can. Striker says that winning tonight would be a start as would getting rid of Vickie as per the request of his mentor ...

*** BROKEN DREAMS ***

*** DREW McINTYRE ***

Slowly stepping out from the backstage area, the Sinister Scotsman heads towards the ring with a swagger as he looks to avoid a spot in the Elimination match next week as well. McIntyre nears the ring and Striker suggests that he is a guy who has all the potential in the ring but just needs to start putting it together to survive NXT. Can he move up the rankings with a win tonight?

*** WHAT’S UP? ***

*** R-TRUTH ***

Rapping along to his song, Truth sings and dances his way to the ring with the crowd chanting along with him. Truth is another guy, says Mathews, that hasn’t ignited here on NXT yet but needs a big win to set him on a roll. Truth enters the ring and shouts out to the people of Louisville, Kentucky, before the referee signals for the match to begin ...

MATCH 3 | FATAL 4-WAY MATCH
DOLPH ZIGGLER (7) vs. DREW McINTYRE (5) vs. MVP (4) vs. R-TRUTH (6)


All four men go after each other as they look to impress their mentors and earn an important win as they look to prolong their stays on NXT. There is tension in the air early as Drew McIntyre and MVP come to blows – both members of Team JBL of course – which McIntyre isn’t impressed about. However, Ziggler is the one who impresses in the early stages and he almost gets a big win when he takes MVP down with a Sleeper Hold. As it appears that MVP is about to pass out, Ziggler is denied victory by R-Truth when he kicks him in the head to break it and ensure the match continues. The match moves onwards with all four men desperate to get the win and when Dolph Ziggler hits the ZIG ZAG on R-Truth, things look good for Ziggler. He makes the cover on Truth but MVP breaks the pinfall and tosses Ziggler out of the ring. As Truth gets to his feet, MVP hits the DRIVE BY KICK that crashes him down to the mat. MVP looks for the cover but Drew McIntyre breaks the hold and then drags Truth out of the ring from the outside and then rams him shoulder first into the steel steps. As Drew gets back into the ring, MVP catches him an unexpected kick to the head but McIntyre kicks out at 2. MVP steps back before attempting to hit the PLAY OF THE DAY – however, the move is countered by McIntyre who spins round and hits a Big Boot and knocks him down to the mat before locking him up ready ... FUTURESHOCK DDT FROM DREW McINTYRE! He makes the cover and hooks the leg ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **


WINNER
DREW McINTYRE (8:24)


McIntyre jumps up in celebration as he moves up to fourth place in the rankings thanks to this victory and avoids having to face the NXT Elimination Match next week. As Drew backs away up the ramp with a huge smile on his face, Striker informs us about how that impacts the rankings. McIntyre is now in fourth place thanks to the win, MVP has fallen to seventh after his defeat and that leaves Truth in fifth whilst Ziggler is sixth. Mathews informs us that next week’s Elimination Match will definitely feature MVP but his opponent is as yet undecided. If Kaval defeats Khali later, Khali will fall to eighth and will face MVP next week. If Khali beats Kaval later, Kaval’s immunity will mean that MVP will face sixth placed Ziggler instead.

Backstage, JBL is still sat down looking annoyed. He is now joined by Vladimir Kozlov who sits alongside him and speaks in very broken English. He tells him that he has decided to face Santino Marella next week in a Street Fight but JBL doesn’t react. He continues to stare forwards and Kozlov exits the locker room with a look of worry on his face before the cameras return to the ring ...


*** RULE BRITANNIA ***

*** BRITISH EMPIRE ***
WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (Tag Team Champions) & FINLAY


Waving their Union Jack flags, the Empire head towards the ring with the newly won Tag Team Championships around the waists of Regal and Ryan. They look delighted to be the new Tag Team Champions as they head to the ring taunting the WWE Universe as they give them grief. Mathews and Striker remind us of the way the Empire won the title on Sunday – in the Tag Team Turmoil match where they defeated Hart Dynasty in controversial circumstances and then Mark Henry and Evan Bourne as well as, allegedly, taking out Cryme Time before they had chance to come out from the backstage area.

*** RADIO ***

*** ZACK RYDER & CURT HAWKINS ***

The former Tag Team Champions head out together and they appear to be on the same page as they head towards the ring. Striker reminds us that they lost to the Hart Dynasty in the Tag Team Turmoil match but never actually met the British Empire ... Can they regain their Tag Team Championships tonight?



MATCH 4 | TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (c) (w/Finlay) vs. ZACK RYDER & CURT HAWKINS


Ryder and Hawkins have the advantage of the fans on their side as the match kicks off and they look to be intent on taking back their titles as they work brilliantly as a team to go after William Regal. As Ryder looks to finish Regal off early, Finlay tries to distract him but Ryder just shoves him down off the apron and goes back after Regal. Ryder misses with the Rough Ryder though and it allows Regal to make a tag to the Welshman, Mason Ryan. In comes Ryan and he steamrollers over Ryder at first and forces him to tag out to Hawkins. Once Hawkins comes in, Ryan whips him off the ropes and then crashes him down to the mat with a huge spinebuster. Things are beginning to look bleak for the Broskis as Ryan lifts Hawkins up high and powerbombs him down to the mat before tagging in a confident looking William Regal. Hawkins is desperately trying to scramble to his corner to tag Ryder back in but the Long Island Iced Z is still getting back there himself, Regal catches him and locks in the REGAL STRETCH! The referee drops to his knees besides Hawkins as he tries to hang on, Ryder is about to come in and break the hold when Finlay strikes – out of the referee’s vision again – with a flagpole shot to the knee of Ryder. Hawkins squirms and tries to fight but it isn’t to be ...

** TAP **
** TAP **
** TAP **


WINNER
WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (5:05)


As ‘Rule Britannia’ echoes around the arena once again, the crowd give a firm thumbs down for the dirty, cheating ways of the Empire as they are handed back their title belts by the referee. Holding them up high, the Empire then exit from the ring with their title reigns now confirmed and, with Finlay by their side, the Tag Team Champions head back to the backstage area. Ryder and Hawkins are still in the ring, Ryder clutching at his knee and Hawkins holding his shoulder. As has become the norm recently, Hawkins looks pissed off at Ryder and he lets him know it by pointing his finger at him and berating him. Ryder looks stunned but tries to verbally defend himself – Hawkins is having none of it. He theatrically tells Ryder to get out of his way and he heads towards the ropes ... But Ryder has had enough. He spins Curt back around and argues back, the crowd behind him, before Hawkins tries to throw a punch at his partner. However, it appears Ryder was expecting it, ducks and hits the ropes before hitting the ROUGH RYDER to a big ovation from the crowd. As a disappointed Ryder looks down on Hawkins on the mat, he smirks and looks around at the WWE Universe who seem to be happy with his turn here.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

THIS MONDAY: MONDAY NIGHT RAW LIVE!
Catch the Fatal 4-Way match to determine the Number 1 contender for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship!
*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

NXT returns with replays of the confrontation between Ryder and Hawkins from before the commercial break and then shows footage of Hawkins backstage swearing revenge on his partner. Striker laughs and says that it appears that those two needed the titles to keep them together before wondering what will be next on the British Empire’s list of intentions. The music hits for Great Khali though and it appears it is time for our main event match ...

*** LAND OF FIVE RIVERS ***

*** GREAT KHALI ***
(w/Runjin Singh)


The ever popular Punjab makes his way to the ring dancing and pointing as he smiles along with his brother, Runjin Singh, accompanying him as ever. As Khali approaches the ring, Mathews reminds us that Khali is the current NXT Number 1 but that by accepting this match tonight, he could tumble to eighth if he loses and end up facing MVP in the NXT Elimination Match next week.

*** EXPLODING HELMETS ***

*** KAVAL ***

For the second time this evening, Kaval makes his way towards the ring as the man who can be ranked anywhere he likes for now due to his double immunity earned in the Royal Rumble PPV on Sunday. Kaval looks to be motivated by his victory in the Battle Royal and he seems to be relishing the chance to prove the world wrong as he faces up to the giant Khali here tonight. Could Kaval make his way to Number 1 tonight?

MAIN EVENT | SINGLES MATCH
GREAT KHALI (1) (w/Runjin Singh) vs. KAVAL (8)


Kaval explodes out of the blocks and hits a series of kicks and flying moves as he looks to use his pace to outwit and disorientate his huge opponent. However, every tiny little move that Khali connects with makes a huge difference as it rattles Kaval to the core, every slap, every shove and every clothesline. Kaval continues to go at it but he cannot take Khali down and then he runs into a huge chop to the shoulder by Khali that threatens a three count but doesn’t deliver one. Finally, a series of kicks to the thigh and knees from Kaval to Khali manage to take the Punjabi Playboy down to a knee and then Kaval, quick as a flash, jumps to the top rope and hits a missile dropkick that knocks Khali down to his back for the first time. Kaval again rushes to the top rope and steadies himself before coming off it ... THE WARRIORS WAY DOUBLE FOOT STOMP! Connects! Khali clutches his chest and stomach as the two feet of Kaval drop down on him, he makes the cover ... Kick out from Khali! He throws Kaval off him as if swotting a fly! Kaval cannot believe it and misses with a roundhouse kick, this allows Khali to hit another chop to the head that reduces Kaval to a wreck on the mat. Khali drags him up and sets it up ... PUNJABI PLUNGE! It’s surely over now!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **


WINNER
GREAT KHALI (4:43)


Sportingly, Khali helps Kaval to his feet afterwards and shakes his hand before celebrating his victory and his retention of top spot in NXT by dancing his way up the ramp again and out of the arena. Striker informs us that the ranking places of these two don’t change and that – as a result of Kaval’s immunity – the lowest two ranked wrestlers eligible for elimination are ...



Dolph Ziggler and MVP who will meet next week in the first NXT Elimination match! As a wounded Kaval makes to leave the ring though, the stock market bell sounds and his mentor begins to head out ...


*** LONGHORN ***

*** NXT MENTOR: JOHN ‘BRADSHAW’ LAYFIELD ***

Shaking his head, JBL heads out – not in his limo tonight – and walks straight down to the ring. He marches up the ring steps and steps defiantly into the ring before staring straight at Kaval who has stayed there waiting. JBL smirks at Kaval and then ignores him as the eighth placed NXT competitor makes his way out. As he leaves, JBL begins to speak at last and he sarcastically congratulates Kaval on ‘another’ fantastic NXT performance before telling him that he was lucky to win on Sunday. Kaval thinks about rounding on him and heading back down but he decides against it in the end and simply walks out. JBL addresses the crowd and challenges the other NXT mentor, The Rock, to get out here. He goes on to suggest that Rock clearly has a problem with JBL being the better NXT mentor and that his actions on Sunday – costing his man, Drew McIntyre, the Battle Royal and then eliminating him from the Rumble – showed how scared he was of Team JBL winning the NXT competition. JBL again dares Rock to come out here and then waits for a response ...

*** IF YA SMELL WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN’ ***

*** THE ROCK ***

Another huge reaction for Rock as his music strikes and his entrance to confront JBL begins ... Or does it? Despite his music beginning, there is no sign of the Rock! JBL stands waiting in the ring but there continues to be no sign of Rock ... The camera switches backstage and we see that there is a commotion there. On the floor, with a steel pipe nearby, is the Great One, the Rock, laying face down and clearly injured as a result of an attack from someone. A crowd of medics and officials is gathering around him and they can be heard to shout to each other about ‘What happened?’ and ‘Who did this?’ although there appears to be very little information about it. Rock’s music dies out and the cameras focus on the injured mentor on the floor, not moving, completely out cold. Back in the ring, the cameras focus on JBL who is smiling to himself for the first time tonight as NXT goes off the air on an ugly note ...

***** END OF SHOW *****
 
#111 ·
January 28th, 2011: SMACKDOWN



FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN LIVE
BROADBENT ARENA, LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
FRIDAY JANUARY 28TH, 2011


*** DO YOU KNOW THE ENEMY? ***

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***



Todd Grisham and Mick Foley introduce SMACKDOWN as the crowd here in Louisville, Kentucky, cheer excitedly for the first SMACKDOWN on the Road to WrestleMania where tonight we are scheduled to hear from the Royal Rumble winner as well as beginning to find out which SMACKDOWN superstars will be competing in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match in just over three weeks time ...


MICHAEL COLE
FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN GENERAL MANAGER

Boos erupt around the arena as the smirking, arrogant face of the SMACKDOWN General Manager appears on the big screen. After his experiences with his live recording last week, Cole appears to have opted for the recorded version again this week and he begins to speak ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night SMACKDOWN! This is the Number 1 show here in the WWE where the top superstars compete for the top title under the management of the top General Manager ...

More boos erupt at this announcement from Cole, the crowd here in Kentucky clearly do not agree ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Now, I don’t expect that many of you people here in Kentucky will appreciate this – after all, your most famous achievement is the creation of a popular fried chicken. Cole smirks as the boos erupt again! However, it is clear to me that you all need to listen to my words of wisdom. When I took over the reins here on SMACKDOWN, I suggested that this was the Number 1 show and I guaranteed that a SMACKDOWN superstar would be victorious at the Royal Rumble. I also guaranteed that Christian would NOT win the World Championship ... And guess what?

The heat that Cole is generating in his new role as the General Manager is growing each time he appears on WWE television ...

MICHAEL COLE:
I was dead right! Correct on every single thing that I have said so far. But tonight is not about Michael Cole. Tonight is a celebration of SMACKDOWN and a celebration of one man who took on 29 other superstars, took on the odds that were stacked against him ... and overcome every single one of them! Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome the winner of the 2011 Royal Rumble, the man who will go to WrestleMania 27 and compete in the main event for the World Heavyweight Championship ... Please welcome ... JOOOHHHHHNNNNNNN CEEEEEEEEEEEEENNNNNAAAAA!

Cole’s smarmy face disappears from the titantron as a video begins ... The video features highlights from the Royal Rumble as Cena eliminates his opponents, lays the smack down on Randy Orton and then eliminates the Viper to secure the win. The video ends with Cena pointing up at the WrestleMania 27 logo and the crowd boos and jeers as they prepare for his arrival ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***

*** JOHN CENA ***

There is an explosion of boos from around the arena as John Cena bounds from backstage, a huge smile on his face, and he stands on stage and looks out around him as the jeers intensify. Smirking, Cena stands at the top of the ramp and he slowly raises his hand and waves it across his face: “You can’t see me!” Cena bursts into a run and he slides under the bottom rope and into the ring before bouncing across the ring off the ropes with a grin on his face.

TODD GRISHAM:
Last Sunday, Mick, Cena participated in the 30-man Royal Rumble, overcame his issues with RAW superstar Randy Orton and booked his spot in the main event of WrestleMania 27!

MICK FOLEY:
Controversially though, Todd. Many people have issues with the way Cena went about defeating Orton to earn that WrestleMania spot. Listen to the reaction Cena is getting!

Cena is stood in the centre of the ring holding a microphone and looking round at the WWE Universe still smirking. His music fades and he laughs out loud to himself as he steps around the ring once more. The fans are completely against him but Cena doesn’t care – he is in the WrestleMania 27 main event regardless!

JOHN CENA:
You do make me laugh, guys! How about a chant? Here, let me get you started off ... “Ceeee ... na ... sucks! Ceeee ... na ... sucks!” ...

Cena continues to compose the crowd as they start to join in with the “Cena sucks!” chant but it doesn’t bother him at all. He cups his ears as the crowd continue to chant and he openly mocks the fans as they chant louder. As the chant dies out, Cena lifts the microphone again ready to continue ...

JOHN CENA:
Hold up, hold up, hold up. Come on, Louisville, let me speak to you about something then. I want to take you a trip down Memory Lane ...

Another intensification of the boos but these die out – people still want to hear about what Cena has to say ...

JOHN CENA:
Two months ago, the night after Survivor Series, I cost Randy Orton his chance to win back the WWE Championship and then Teddy Long brought me here to Friday Night SMACKDOWN. Now, we all know that Teddy Long was a lousy General Manager but that was one of his few good decisions. Over I came and immediately I vowed to win the World Heavyweight Championship and prove that I was the best on SMACKDOWN!

Cena looks round arrogantly at the WWE Universe who continue to give him a lot of grief ...

JOHN CENA:
Last Sunday night, I proved once and for all that I am the man who will be officially announced as SMACKDOWN’s best, SMACKDOWN’s World Heavyweight Champion, when I won the Royal Rumble to earn my title shot at WrestleMania. I don’t care who it is: CM Punk, Christian, Kofi Kingston ... They will lose the World Championship to me at WrestleMania.

An ‘a**hole’ chant begins now as the crowd look to get under Cena’s skin – they fail once again.

JOHN CENA:
Give over, Louisville, I don’t care what you think. You see, a few months ago, I did care. I attended the ‘Make a Wish’ appointments, I shook hands with all the little kids, I signed all the autographs and I smiled for the cameras. And where did it get me? Nowhere. Now, I have more time than ever, I don’t have to put up with all your idiotic children, I don’t have to smile at morons in places like this ...

Huge boos for Cena’s latest comment ...

JOHN CENA:
... and I have a World Championship match at WrestleMania. Why on earth would I care what you think, Louisville? Why on earth would your boos and chants upset me now?

More boos and jeers for Cena but he continues to laugh mockingly at them.

JOHN CENA:
I have the chance at WrestleMania to prove I am the greatest WWE superstar on SMACKDOWN, I’ve proven it over and over on RAW already. I am going to go all the way to WrestleMania 27 unbeaten and then I will win the World Championship and all of you can boo and hiss as much as you want. However, there is one little complication. Randy Orton. For the past two months, Orton has been a constant thorn in my side.

An “RKO!” chant begins as the WWE Universe show their support for the RAW superstar. Cena – for the first time tonight – looks slightly annoyed at the chant.

JOHN CENA:
Oh, shut up!

Intense, loud boos from the crowd!

JOHN CENA:
When I left RAW, I wanted a fresh start here on SMACKDOWN. I wanted a clean break, a chance to prove that I was the best superstar in the WWE but Orton wouldn’t let things rest. We faced each other at Vengeance, I won. I wanted to leave it there but Orton wouldn’t leave it. He continued to stalk me, he continues to want revenge on me for whatever reason. At the Rumble, I once again got the better of him but still he wants a piece of John Cena.

Cena looks down and shakes his head in disappointment over the recent actions of Orton ...

JOHN CENA:
This Monday, I am going to turn up on Monday Night RAW and I have a proposition for Orton. I want to end this once and for all so that I can concentrate on heading to WrestleMania and facing the World Heavyweight Champion, concentrate on proving that I am the best in the WWE and ensure that my name ends WrestleMania 27 in lights when I become the World Heavyweight ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***

*** CM PUNK ***
World Heavyweight Champion

Cena looks up annoyed by the interruption as the World Champion heads out laughing to himself. He kneels down on stage and announces that he it is ‘Clobbering Time’ before readjusting the WWE Championship around his waist. He is bearing a t-shirt proclaiming that he is the ‘Best in the World’ and as he steps up the ring steps, he looks to Cena and chuckles at the look of annoyance on his face. Punk has picked up a microphone as he enters the ring and he stands opposite Cena as the music fades ...

JOHN CENA:
What the hell do you ...

CM PUNK:
John, John, John, Johnny Boy. Do everybody a favour for a moment, will you? Shut up!

Cena looks stunned but he blusters for a moment before lowering his microphone ...

CM PUNK:
Thank you, Johnny, now listen to me carefully. I’ve been listening to your spiel backstage and I just had to come out and speak to you. You see, we’re not so different, you and I. Once upon a time, we cared about the fans with a passion, nowadays we couldn’t care less about their opinions ...

Slight heat for Punk’s comment about not caring about the fans ...

CM PUNK:
You’re out here claiming to be the best in the WWE, I am wearing a t-shirt proclaiming myself to be the ‘Best in the World’ – like I said, not so different. One difference though, Cena, is that I have this. Punk unstraps the World Championship from around his waist and holds it up in the air. I have this title that proves that I am the best whereas all you have is a title opportunity. Fair enough, you had to win the Rumble to get that but, at the moment, you haven’t proven anything.

Cena raises himself up a little trying to look a little more intimidating but Punk shakes his head at him.

CM PUNK:
Back down, Johnny, I’m not out here for a fight. I’m simply out here to remind you that at WrestleMania, if you think you’re going to become the World Champion, you’ll have to go through me. You might be looking past me but I assure you that you should have a little bit more respect for me before you go booking your celebration party just yet.

The WWE Universe in attendance look on and there is a little excitement as Cena and Punk’s dialogue continues; a few people are definitely on Punk’s side, his loyal fans as usual.

CM PUNK:
Before you came here to SMACKDOWN, John, you used to go by the creed of ‘Hustle, Loyalty, Respect’ but nowadays that appears to have been forgotten. Whilst I’m not interested in what the fans think of me, good or bad, I respect people in this industry enough not to think that I can just push them all aside and go unbeaten for months on end. Last Sunday, at the Rumble, I fought with Christian for the title and he earned my respect. We fought to the bitter end and he refused to tap out.

Punk fixes Cena with a stare as he continues ...

CM PUNK:
I now respect Christian but, as for you, I have no respect yet. Another man who I have no respect for is Michael Cole.

Huge boos for the mention of the SMACKDOWN General Manager ...

CM PUNK:
On Sunday, Michael Cole came out and he tried to hand me a steel chair, he offered to allow me to smash Christian with the chair and not be disqualified. He wanted me to take the cheap way out.

More boos for Cole’s actions at the Rumble ...

CM PUNK:
Do I have any respect for Michael Cole? No. Just like you don’t appear to have any respect for the other superstars here on SMACKDOWN. Let me guess, Cena, where do your loyalties lie these days? Are you loyal to Michael Cole?

Cena laughs and then he raise his microphone to respond ...

???:
Can I have your attention please?


*** MICHAEL COLE ***
SMACKDOWN GENERAL MANAGER

Huge jeers echo around the arena as the SMACKDOWN General Manager Michael Cole steps out onto the stage and begins to make his way towards the ring with a determined look on his face.

MICHAEL COLE:
Hold it there, Punk. Cena doesn’t need to answer that one. We all know that John Cena knows full well that I am the SMACKDOWN General Manager and he knows that I deserve respect. He knows that keeping me onside is beneficial to his career. Just ask Christian and Matt Hardy what happens to people who don’t respect their boss.

Cena raises his eyebrows but Cole misses this as he is focused on Punk. Punk smirks at him and begins his reply ...

CM PUNK:
Ask Christian and Matt Hardy? Look, Cole, I’ve been wanting words with you about Christian. In three weeks time, I am going to be defending this World Championship in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match against five other men. I really think, Cole, after his performance on Sunday, that Christian deserves to be one of those five men.

MICHAEL COLE:
You do, do you? You think that Christian should be given another opportunity for the World Championship? Really?

Punk nods his head and Cole grimaces towards Cena who is listening intently ...

MICHAEL COLE:
After he gave up to your Anaconda Vice?

Punk rolls his eyes at Cole and nods his head again.

CM PUNK:
Yes, Cole, I do. You see, Christian didn’t tap out to my Anaconda Vice. He passed out. And not only do I think he deserves another shot at the title, I also contacted the WWE board of directors and requested that they give him another shot as well.

Cole looks annoyed with Punk ...

MICHAEL COLE:
That was you, was it? Punk nods his head, smiling. The board have contacted me regarding Christian and they have insisted that he is given a chance to earn himself a place in the Elimination Chamber. Completely against my wishes, obviously, but ... Cole shrugs his shoulders. So I made my decision, I would give him a shot. Tonight, there will be a number of qualifying matches for the Chamber match and Christian will be involved in one. Tonight’s main event as it happens ...

Cole looks directly into the eyes of his World Champion with a threatening stare ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Now, Punk, I thought you were different. I thought you were a champion that I could be proud of. I thought that Cena and you could dominate SMACKDOWN and the WWE for the foreseeable future. Last Sunday, you disappointed me when you spurned my offer of help. So tonight, I want to make sure that I have your loyalty ...

Punk laughs out loud at this statement, he is highly amused by the thought of being loyal to Cole.

CM PUNK:
Loyal to you?

MICHAEL COLE:
Yes, Punk loyal to me. Now if you want to do things the difficult way, Punk, you can go against me if you wish. However, now that I am General Manager, I can make life very, very difficult for you.

A look of concern passes across the face of Punk and he glances towards Cena who is smiling at the thought of Punk’s life being made difficult. Cole continues ...

MICHAEL COLE:
However, if you would like, you can do things the easy way. You see, tonight Punk, Christian will be in the qualifying match for the Elimination Chamber ... against you ... and John Cena!

Boos erupt around the arena as Punk shakes his head in anger ... On the commentary, Grisham and Foley react incredulously at the news that Christian will have to defeat the Royal Rumble winner, John Cena, and the World Champion, CM Punk, if he wishes to be involved in the Elimination Chamber. Cole has a huge smile on his face ...

CM PUNK:
You’re joking me, Cole?

MICHAEL COLE:
Do I look as if I am joking, Punk? If Christian wants to be in the Elimination Chamber match, he needs to defeat Cena and yourself in a Handicap match tonight. If he doesn’t, then I’m afraid that he will have blown his chance!

Punk looks towards Cena who is nodding his head happily ...

CM PUNK:
Christian deserves better than that, Cole, you know ...

MICHAEL COLE:
I KNOW that I am the General Manager of Friday Night SMACKDOWN, Punk. Tonight, you will team up with Cena here ... Cole pats his Royal Rumble winner on the shoulder. ... and you will defeat Christian. If you don’t beat him, I will hold you personally responsible for it, Punk.

Cena flashes a grin at Punk and then lifts his microphone up to speak ...

JOHN CENA:
I see what you mean now, Punk? Respect for each other? That’s the key, alright. I’ll see you later, shall I? Partner?!

Cena laughs and then accompanies Cole as he exits the ring leaving a flabbergasted CM Punk stood in the ring with a concerned, annoyed look on his face as he contemplates tonight’s main event ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns and Grisham and Foley recap the announcements from before the break by showing part of the confrontation between Michael Cole and CM Punk as John Cena watched on. Grisham reminds us that tonight’s main event will see Christian in a 2 vs. 1 Handicap Match with CM Punk and John Cena and that he needs to win the match to earn his place in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match. Foley also reminds us that Punk needs to ensure that Christian doesn’t win or else Michael Cole is planning to make his life as World Champion extremely difficult ...

*** SOMEBODIES GONNA’ GET THEIR ASS KICKED ***

*** MARK HENRY ***

Smiling as normal, the ‘World’s Strongest Man’ Mark Henry heads out and lifts his hands up high in the air to acknowledge the cheers of the WWE Universe in attendance. Henry heads towards the ring slapping hands with the fans in the rampway area before stepping into the ring and saluting the fans. Grisham reminds us that last Sunday night Mark Henry and his partner, Evan Bourne, were involved in the final fall of the Tag Team Turmoil match but were outwitted by the British Empire. Henry turns to await his opponent for this Elimination Chamber qualifying match ...

*** CRANK IT UP ***

*** BIG SHOW ***

Stepping out from backstage, the ‘World’s Largest Athlete’ heads out as well with a look on disgust on his face as he is greeted by a less than enthusiastic welcome from the crowd. After his problems with Kofi Kingston of late, Show’s Royal Rumble was shortlived after he was eliminated by Kofi late on in the contest to deny him the chance of challenging for the WWE or the World Championship. Grisham suggests that the issues between Kofi and Show are probably still not resolved; this idea is confirmed quickly by Foley.

SINGLES MATCH: Winner earns a spot in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match
BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY


The match begins with the two big men facing up to each other in the centre of the ring as if daring each other to try and knock the other one over. A shoving contest ensues before Henry comes off the ropes and attempts to take Show down with a tackle. Show staggers but remains on his feet. Henry tries twice more with the same result as Show mocks his attempts. Show then tries the same move but Henry – thinking cleverly – moves aside and then catches an unsuspecting Show with right hands as he looks to get on top in the contest. Show retaliates by grabbing Henry by the throat but not even he can Choke Slam the World’s Strongest Man and a kick to the knee from Henry gets him space and takes Show down to one leg. Henry comes off the ropes and hits a boot to the face that sends Show spinning and he crashes to the mat as the crowd roar him on. Henry goes for a cover but cannot get a 3-count and Show gets to his feet quickly and hits a number of slaps to the chest of Henry before mowing him down with a clothesline that takes Henry down for the first time. Henry is able to counter with a drop toe hold move and Show’s head cracks off the turnbuckle giving Henry chance to go for a big move as the match slows down further. Henry climbs to the corner ropes and steadies himself before trying to splash Show from the middle rope ... Too late, Show moves! As Henry staggers up, Show is able to go for a Choke Slam again but Henry again battles out and goes on the offensive. As Henry tries to lift Show for the World’s Strongest Slam though, he takes on too much. Staggering under the weight of Show, he is forced to release him and this leaves him unsuspecting ... CHOKE SLAM! HENRY CHOKE SLAMMED TO THE MAT! Big Show looks down, breathing harder now, at Henry who is laid out, the ring still shaking from the impact of his 450+ frame slamming down on it. Show stands back and winds up his big fist as Henry groggily gets up ... WMD PUNCH! HENRY SPINS ROUND KNOCKED COLD BY SHOW! Big Show places a huge foot over the chest of Henry as the referee makes the count ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
BIG SHOW (3:48) via pinfall
Big Show stands up and looks down on the fallen Henry who is not moving much at all after he was clocked with the WMD punch. Show is the first man confirmed in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber to challenge for CM Punk’s World Championship and he looks to be an incredible danger to the chances of Punk retaining. Despite the win, Show doesn’t look any happier with life and he stands over Henry looking annoyed before turning and heading out of the ring with his music playing in the background. Some fans mouth off at Show as he walks up the ramp once more but he doesn’t react – a mere look is enough to silence most of them. As he backs off the stage and out of sight, the camera switches to the interview area where Josh Mathews is waiting.

JOSH MATHEWS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest ... ZACK RYDER!

Ryder comes into shot dressed in a custom made t-shirt and ready for action tonight. He looks serious for a change as he awaits Mathews’ questioning ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Zack, on NXT last Tuesday, Curt Hawkins and yourself were defeated by the British Empire and failed to regain your Tag Team Championships. After the match, Curt blamed you – once again – for the defeat. Tonight, you go one on one with Curt as you look to put aside your differences. You thoughts?

Ryder thinks for a moment before answering ...

ZACK RYDER:
You know what, Josh, I thought that Curt was my Broski. We come from the same city, we like the same music, we worked so well as a team. We were the Long Island Major Broskis and we were the Tag Team Champions. But for the past few weeks, Curt has been questioning my performances in our matches. I’m not going to lie to you, Josh, that has hurt me. Especially seeing as Curt has been just as much to blame as I have. When he blamed me again on Tuesday night on NXT, I snapped.

A quick replay of Ryder hitting the Rough Ryder to Hawkins on NXT after their loss to the British Empire ...

ZACK RYDER:
It felt good, Josh. It felt good to stick it to Curt and show him that I wasn’t going to be blamed for anything. And now, I’m ready to move on and concentrate on my singles career. Tonight, I take revenge on Curt and then the ‘Ryder Revolution’ can finally begin. I am ready to prove to the WWE that I am the Long Island Iced Z, I am ready to feature on SMACKDOWN and I am ready to be the future of this company. You can count on that, bro. Woo Woo Woo ... You know it!


*** CURT HAWKINS ***

Decent reaction to Ryder’s words from the crowd but Curt Hawkins is in the ring and has been watching on the titantron. He is looking very unimpressed with Ryder’s words as his theme tune plays in the background and he prepares himself for his match against his former partner.

*** RADIO ***

*** ZACK RYDER ***

A small pop for Ryder who comes down looking focus and his attention squarely on his former friend and – it seems – his former partner. He steps into the ring and he flashes the LI symbol on the buckles before turning to face Hawkins who is speaking to him animatedly. Hawkins is still berating Ryder but he then tries to offer out his hand for a truce. Ryder stares at it for a moment and appears to be considering it to the disappointment of the crowd. However, he then makes a big decision and he refuses the handshake as he tells the referee to get the match started. As Ryder removes his shirt and tosses it out, Hawkins takes advantage and attacks Ryder from behind forcing the referee to signal for the bell to start the match ...

SINGLES MATCH
CURT HAWKINS vs. ZACK RYDER


Hawkins begins to lay into the back and shoulders of the Long Island Iced Z, Zack Ryder, and he pummels him as the WWE Universe boo and jeer his actions – Hawkins doesn’t care! After a while, Hawkins drags Ryder up and he hooks his arms around his stomach and hits a belly to back suplex that crashes Ryder down hard onto his back. Ryder kicks out of the cover at 2 though and Hawkins is forced to continue the attack as he stomps at the stomach and knees of Zack in the corner before ramming his head several times into the turnbuckles. More heat from the crowd but then Ryder strikes a counter-elbow that knocks Hawkins down and buys him a little time. Hawkins rubs his jaw annoyed on the mat and then gets up and goes for an Enzuguri kick to Ryder but this is ducked and the crowd cheer as Ryder hits the Broski Boot in the corner to stun Hawkins a little. Ryder continues with a drop kick that knocks Hawkins down and out through the ropes as he starts to take control. Following him outside, Ryder stalks Hawkins when the cameras show that another person is heading out to the ring ...


*** JACK SWAGGER ***

Grisham and Foley on commentary are at a loss for the reason for Swagger’s appearance here tonight – he has no issues that we know of with either of these two men. Ryder slams Hawkins down on the outside and then follows it up with a leg drop before he drags Curt up once more and rolls him back into the ring, Ryder is on a roll here as he looks to prove his superiority over what seems to be his former Tag Team partner. Ryder steps back and begins to hold up the L.I. symbol with his hands as he waits for Hawkins to get up ... Ryder is preparing for the Rough Ryder ... Wait a minute! What the hell is Swagger doing?! The former World Champion has jumped into the ring and just barrelled into the back of Ryder for no reason, the referee has no choice here!

** THE REFEREE SIGNALS FOR THE BELL – HAWKINS HAS BEEN DISQUALIFIED! **

WINNER:
ZACK RYDER (3:03) via D/Q
Despite winning the match, Ryder looks anything but the winner as Hawkins gets to his feet and joins in with Swagger to lay down a beating on the Long Island Iced Z. What on earth is going on here? Why is Jack Swagger helping Curt Hawkins? Swagger lifts Ryder up and sets him up ... PUMPHANDLE SLAM! Ryder crashes down onto the mat on his back and he writhes in pain as Hawkins continues to stick the boots to him. Hawkins looks to Swagger and mutters something before heading for the top rope. As he waits on the ropes, Swagger grabs Ryder’s right leg and lifts it off the mat ... ANKLE LOCK! SWAGGER HAS THE ANKLE LOCK ON RYDER! Zack is tapping out but Swagger refuses to let go despite the officials demanding that he does so immediately. As Ryder screams in pain from the Ankle Lock, Hawkins steps up onto the top rope ... HEAT SEEKING ELBOW! HAWKINS DROPS THE ELBOW ON RYDER’S BACK! Swagger releases Ryder from the Ankle Lock now and the medics and officials swarm into the ring. A Heat Seeking Elbow whilst he was in the Ankle Lock? A brutal and vicious attack from Hawkins and Swagger who now exit the ring with beaming smiles together. Grisham and Foley are in complete shock on the commentary as the camera follows the pair of them up the ramp where they are taking some heat from the crowd. However, they appear not interested as they exit the arena whilst the camera returns to a seriously hurt Zack Ryder in the ring ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with footage of Zack Ryder being helped out of the arena before a replay of the devastating moment when Hawkins hit the Heat Seeking Elbow from the top rope on Ryder’s back whilst he was trapped in Swagger’s Ankle Lock. Foley criticises the actions of Hawkins and wonders why he would do that to his Tag Team partner? Grisham suggests that Hawkins might have found himself a new partner already ...

*** REALEZA ***

*** ALBERTO DEL RIO ***
(w/Ricardo Rodriguez) | Intercontinental Champion

Ricardo Rodriguez is shown in the ring as he waits for the arrival of the Intercontinental Champion, his employer, Alberto Del Rio, to make his way out into the arena in his Rolls Royce car. Del Rio steps out of the car and onto the stage as the golden rain showers down behind him and Rodriguez introduces him to the crowd who aren’t fans of the wealthy Mexican. He dismisses their jeers as he heads for the ring and enters between the ropes held apart by Rodriguez. Foley and Grisham discuss the Royal Rumble and remind us that Del Rio’s fellow Mexican, Rey Mysterio, made his return from injury – inflicted by Del Rio – to eliminate the Intercontinental Champion.

*** S.O.S. ***

*** KOFI KINGSTON ***

As Kingston comes bounding out onto the stage and the fireworks explode around him, Foley suggests that the Royal Rumble was yet another moment when Kofi got so close to glory but couldn’t quite get there. Grisham reminds us that Kingston reached the final five of the Rumble but was eliminated when he was close to achieving his goal. Foley airs the suggestion that maybe Kofi is not capable of that one last huge victory that would propel him into superstardom as Kofi leaps up on the ropes and slaps his hands together in salute to the WWE Universe. Grisham informs us that both men have a huge opportunity tonight to prove that they are heading into the big time as they do battle for a place in the Elimination Chamber match for the World Championship right now!

SINGLES MATCH: Winner earns a spot in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match
ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. KOFI KINGSTON


As you would expect from these two, the different styles of the pair of them go together well and produce a decent paced match that entertains the crowd. After a fast start from Kofi Kingston, it is Alberto Del Rio who takes over the match after he counters with a clothesline – a distraction from his personal ring announcer helps slightly though. Despite his control of the match, Kofi continues to show signs of danger as he threatens to get back on top and the match swings back and forth for a while as it winds towards a conclusion. When Kofi manages to avoid a corner clothesline from the Mexican in the corner, he rushes across the ring and off the ropes before hitting a high, diving crossbody off the ropes. A 2-count follows as Kofi looks to secure his Elimination Chamber spot but he then decides to head up the ropes for the first time tonight. Another distraction from Rodriguez follows and this causes a delay to Kofi on the top rope and allows Del Rio to knock one of his feet off the ropes and causes him to land awkwardly over the top buckle as the men in the crowd wince for him. Dragging Kofi down off the ropes, Del Rio smirks and he locks Kofi’s arm up ready to roll through and lock in the Cross Arm Breaker when all of a sudden, somebody else makes an appearance here tonight ...

*** BOOYAKA! BOOYAKA! 6-1-9! ***

*** REY MYSTERIO ***

The crowd go wild for the sight of the returning Mysterio who clearly retains a fierce issue with Del Rio after the Aristocrat caused his injury months ago. Mysterio walks down the ramp eying Del Rio who is now stood at the ropes, pointing to Rey and warning him to stay away. This is giving Kofi time to rest of course and when Del Rio goes to grab Kofi and try again, the Ghanaian shakes him off and pops him off into the ropes ... Drop kick from Kofi! Del Rio wobbles to his feet and Kofi locks him up ... SOS! KOFI HITS THE SOS ON DEL RIO! He makes the cover ... No! Del Rio kicks out at 2! Kofi is stunned but goes on the offensive and climbs the ropes once more. He steps onto the top turnbuckle and leaps off ... Diving Crossbody! But Del Rio rolls it though, hooks the leg and grabs the bottom rope ... The referee is making the count as Del Rio uses the rope for leverage here ... 1 ... 2 ... Mysterio rescues Kofi and knocks Del Rio’s hand off the ropes and allowing Kofi to kick out. Del Rio is on his knees staring at Mysterio in annoyance as the referee, who now realises what Alberto was doing, reprimands him. Del Rio slowly gets up, the hatred between him and Rey is obvious ... TROUBLE IN PARADISE! DEL RIO TURNS INTO THE TROUBLE IN PARADISE! Kofi makes the cover ... Has he sealed his place in the Chamber?

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
KOFI KINGSTON (8:47) via pinfall
Kofi Kingston jumps up in celebration as he books his place in the Elimination Chamber match and earns himself an opportunity to compete for the World Championship yet again. As the referee holds up the hand in victory, Del Rio protests and points angrily to the smiling Rey Mysterio who is still stood outside the ring. Laughing at his enemy, Mysterio backs away pointing up in the sky as Del Rio watches on. Kofi exits the ring and he gives Mysterio a hug before Rey holds his hand up high to taunt Del Rio who is still in the ring. As SMACKDOWN exits into another commercial, Foley speculates that this is only the start of Mysterio’s revenge against Alberto for the injury he caused five months ago ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***


*** LAST TUESDAY ON NXT ***

A highlights video airs that recaps the action on NXT last Tuesday night. Striker’s announcement about the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh ranked participants facing each other is played along with the news that next week will see the first NXT elimination match. McIntyre hitting the Future Shock DDT to MVP is shown and the news that it will be MVP against Dolph Ziggler is shown on a match card. Following that, clips of a miserable looking JBL are shown along with the reasons for this: Kaval winning the Royal Rumble, Rock hitting the Rock Bottom to him during the Rumble match. Snippets of Kaval berating JBL and all the other non-believers are played before JBL calling out Rock to the ring. The scene turns more sinister and the action slows down into black and white as we see Rock laid face down on the concrete after being attacked with a steel pipe with medics positioned around him looking concerned. As the video ends, JBL’s face is shown with him smiling for the first time since before the Rumble PPV ...

NEXT WEEK: Dolph Ziggler vs. MVP (Loser will be eliminated from NXT and the WWE)

The cameras return to the announce table where Foley and Grisham are sat looking sombre after watching the NXT recap video ...

MICK FOLEY:
I’ve heard from the WWE medics tonight on SMACKDOWN who have told me that Rock is suffering from a severe concussion after the attack on Tuesday. Doctors have ordered him to take an indefinite amount of time off until he is fully recovered so he will miss NXT this Tuesday night.

TODD GRISHAM:
And with one of his team, Dolph Ziggler, going up against MVP in the first NXT Elimination contest, Rock could return to NXT and find that members of his team have been eliminated.

The cameras switch backstage where we see the Hardy Boys stood together sharing a joke and laughing together. Cue huge cheers from the SMACKDOWN audience as they see the popular team back together again. Into the picture walks the SMACKDOWN General Manager, Michael Cole. Cue huge jeers from the SMACKDOWN audience as well as a look of disgust from the Hardys as they look at Cole.

MATT HARDY:
Michael Cole, what can we do for you then?

Cole looks equally unimpressed to see the Hardys and he smirks before speaking to them ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Look, this is definitely not my decision but I’ve been speaking to the WWE board of directors ...

JEFF HARDY:
Yeah, we heard, man. Just to let you know, the match you set up for Christian, completely wrong.

Cole looks at Jeff and looks a little annoyed at this comment.

MICHAEL COLE:
When I want advice on how to run SMACKDOWN, Jeff, I’ll let you know. For now, we’ll just assume I’m doing a great job on SMACKDOWN, shall we?

Matt and Jeff cast amused looks towards each other, they clearly don’t agree. Cole shakes his head in annoyance but continues on.

MICHAEL COLE:
Like I said, I was speaking to the board earlier and they demanded that I give Christian a chance to earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber. They also insisted that I give the pair of you a chance as well.

The Hardys suddenly perk up their interest in Cole as they sense a chance to earn their spot in the Elimination Chamber World Championship match in three weeks. Cole smirks at their interested faces ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Not running your mouths now, I see? Anyway, I’ve been racking my brains and I’ve decided that tonight, you will team up to face the new Tag Team Champions, the British Empire. If you can beat them, and I severely doubt you will ...

Cole laughs as the Hardys now look annoyed again ...

MICHAEL COLE:
If you beat them, you will earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber match.

A smile spreads across the faces of the Hardys as Cole turns and walks out of the locker room. A golden chance for the Hardy Boys to earn their spot in the Elimination Chamber as they go up against the Tag Team Champions later tonight. The cameras switch back to the ring where music of the ‘Dashing’ one begins to play ...

*** SMOKE AND MIRRORS ***

*** CODY RHODES ***

Cody Rhodes steps out and checks his appearance in the mirror on the titantron before heading towards the ring laughing at the WWE Universe as they attempt to mock him. Rhodes is clearly feeling superior to the people of Louisville and he points at some of the uglier members of the WWE Universe as he mocks them before he jogs up the ring steps and removes his jacket. He continues to look around the arena at the other people in attendance whilst he awaits his opponent ...

*** BOOYAKA! BOOYAKA! 6-1-9! ***

*** REY MYSTERIO ***

For the second time this evening, Mysterio comes running out and he greets the youngsters in the rampside seats as he presses his masked forehead against theirs and speaks some words of encouragement. He removes his custom-made shirt and drapes it over one of the children before sliding under the bottom rope and saluting the fans by holding up a finger and pointing to the ceiling. The crowd are clearly delighted to see Mysterio back on SMACKDOWN and he is clearly delighted to be back on SMACKDOWN too. As he bounces on the balls of his feet, he faces Cody Rhodes and the referee signals for the bell to begin the contest ...

SINGLES MATCH
CODY RHODES vs. REY MYSTERIO


Mysterio and Rhodes size each other up early on before Rhodes begins to mock Rey’s height and underestimates him like so many have done in the past. To be fair to Cody, he is able to control the match as he hits a number of knee drops and dropkick moves that keep Mysterio grounded in the early going. At one point though, Rey counters with a Hurricanrana, the crowd come alive as Rhodes heads into the ropes and ends up straggled over the middle rope. Mysterio goes for the 619 but Rhodes sees it coming and rolls out of the way in time ... Mysterio was starting his swing round and he stands on the edge of the ring apron, he leaps up onto the top rope and goes for a second Hurricanrana as Rhodes spins round. However, Rhodes catches Mysterio out and hits the Alabama Slam before dropping down and balling up Rey for the cover ... 2 count! Rhodes is livid with the referee, he thought he had the match won there. Cody climbs to the top rope and goes for a drop kick that connects and Rey is sent down to the mat once more ... another cover from Cody Rhodes ... 2 count again! Rhodes cannot believe he hasn’t put Rey away and he sets up for the Cross Rhodes instead, Mysterio is having none of it though and he uses his flexibility to kick Rhodes in the head a couple of times to make the break. Springboarding off the middle rope, Rey hits a crossbody and then jumps up, springboards off the ropes on the other side of the ring and hits a Bulldog to Cody as he gets up. Cover from Rey gets a 2-count as he looks to have the match under control now. Rhodes rolls out of the ring now and takes a moment but Rey wants to get this match won and he goes flying through the ropes and connects with a huge Suicide Dive that crashes Rhodes back into the barricades. The referee orders both men back into the ring and starts a countout, Rhodes only just makes it back in time (8) and this allows Mysterio time to prepare. Rhodes sees him coming off the top rope again though and he catches Rey and looks for a second Alabama Slam ... however, this time, Rey turns it into a Headscissors takedown that leaves Rhodes over the ropes again. The crowd are on their feet, here we go again! MYSTERIO HITS THE 619 TO CODY RHODES! AND FOLLOWS WITH THE DIVING HEADBUTT! Mysterio makes the cover on Rhodes ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
REY MYSTERIO (5:48) via pinfall
A huge roar from the SMACKDOWN crowd as Mysterio makes a winning return to SMACKDOWN and to singles competition here tonight. An embarrassed Cody Rhodes slides out of the ring and away as Rey jumps onto the middle rope in the corner of the ring to salute the crowd after his win. An increase in noise should give the Mexican a warning but he doesn’t notice until it is too late. He jumps down from the middle rope, still facing out into the crowd, and then ... BAM! Enzuguri kick!


*** ALBERTO DEL RIO ***

Alberto Del Rio has returned to the ring and he does not look happy as he drops onto his knees and begins to pummel Mysterio’s masked face hard over and over as his victim tries desperately to cover up. Ricardo Rodriguez is also in the ring and he is shouting encouragement at Del Rio who seems to have snapped. Getting up and shaking his hand which he has hurt in punching Rey over and over, Del Rio steps back a little and then rushes back and connects with a low drop kick to the side of Mysterio’s head that sends him rolling under the rope to the outside with a thud. Del Rio is intent on hurting Rey and he follows him out and drags him to his feet before holding an arm behind his back and then ramming him shoulder first into the ring steps, Mysterio hits them with a loud crash and is clutching his shoulder and elbow. Grisham worriedly informs us that that is the arm that Del Rio injured months ago on SMACKDOWN to take Rey out and it appears he is intent on doing it one more time. As Rey tries to climb back up, using the steps for support, Del Rio stretches his injured arm over the steps and tells Rodriguez to hold it over them. With his arm exposed, Del Rio steps up and pauses for a moment before slamming his boot down hard onto the arm several times. Rey rolls around in pain on the outside of the ring and is clearly in agony here, Foley urges Del Rio to stop but nothing could be further from the wealthy Mexican’s mind. He rolls Rey back into the ring and follows before standing over him with an evil smirk on his face. He points to himself and shouts to the crowd in Spanish before grabbing Mysterio’s arm and pausing ... CROSS ARM BREAKER! DEL RIO HAS THE CROSS ARM BREAKER LOCKED IN ON MYSTERIO AGAIN! Mysterio is tapping immediately but Del Rio refuses to release him, he is set to cause another injury right here as Del Rio completely ignores the instructions of the medics and referees ...


*** EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY***

The Tag Team of Mark Henry and Evan Bourne rush to the ring looking concerned and angry, they have both had some issues with Del Rio of late, but Rodriguez warns him and he releases Rey as they enter the ring. Del Rio rolls away as Bourne and Henry rush over to Mysterio to check on him and this gives Del Rio chance to retreat up the ramp. Rodriguez catches up and hands him his Intercontinental Championship belt and Del Rio backs up the ramp and out leaving Mysterio a sorry state in the ring as Grisham wonders how long this injury will take from Rey’s career in the WWE ...

SMACKDOWN heads into another commercial but this time advertises next week’s SMACKDOWN main event that Michael Cole has already determined ...


*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with a buzz of excitement in the air at the news that Undertaker and Kane will face each other next week in an Elimination Chamber Qualifier – and it will be a Buried Alive match. Foley and Grisham talk about the hell these two have been putting each other through for the past six months since Kane’s attack on his brother on Memorial Day last year and about how this match could finally put an end the rivalry between them.

*** RULE BRITANNIA ***

*** MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL - BRITISH EMPIRE ***
(w/Finlay) | Tag Team Champions

Sauntering out with Finlay waving the red, white and blue colours of the Union Jack, Mason Ryan and William Regal, the Tag Team Champions, head towards the ring with smiles on their faces after their recent title victories at the Rumble (Tag Team Turmoil) and on NXT (Ryder and Hawkins) as they won and retained their first Tag Team Championship together. They mock the audience as they come towards the ring, Ryan with the Tag Title over his red, white and blue tights, Regal in a splendid, elaborate cloak that hides his black trunks and title belt. As the trio step into the ring, Finlay waves the flag to heat from the American crowd as Regal looks around with a look of disdain on his face, clearly unimpressed with what he can see. He signals for and is handed a microphone which he stands central in the ring with and holds up his hand for the music to be faded out. As the music dies, the heat for the Empire gathers noise again and Regal is forced to wait ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
Now, now, now, Louisville, that is no way to treat guests to your state!

Another eruption of boos and jeers as Mason Ryan threateningly tries to intimidate the crowd into silence. They appear to be refusing though and Regal shakes his head in annoyance.

WILLIAM REGAL:
Tonight, you are being handed a once in a lifetime opportunity, a real privilege, an undoubted highlight in your miserable existences. Tonight, Louisville, not only do you get to see three of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s representatives ...

Thumbs down signals from the crowd as a chant of ‘Regal sucks!’ begins in the arena. Regal again pauses and waits, a look of impatience on his face, before continuing ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
But you also get to see the new Tag Team Champions!

Foley comments that the way they won, and retained, those titles was controversial to say the least and that the Louisville crowd’s reaction shows that they are not impressed by the sight of the champions in the ring.

WILLIAM REGAL:
Now, I know that you still don’t understand that anything that you idiotic Americans do, we Brits ...

Regal is really riling up the crowd here tonight and a ‘USA! USA!’ chant now begins in a show of national pride ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
... we Brits do it ten times better as well as with an air of manners and grace. We proved that last Sunday when we beat all of your heroes and won the Tag Team Championships within weeks of introducing ourselves to you. That, Louisville, is impressive.

Ryan applauds Regal’s comments whilst Finlay waves the flag with increased fervour ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
If you want an example of how the British are superior to the Americans in everything we do, take a look at our opponents tonight. Matt and Jeff Hardy ...

Cheers for the mention of the Hardy Boys ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
Tonight, they team together for the first time in years to try and beat us and earn themselves a place in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber. Look at their history. One man who has failed with every single opportunity that he has ever had in life; another man who finally succeeded but then blew it through his own stupidity.

More heat for Regal’s comments and jibes at the Hardys ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
I look at Matt and Jeff Hardy and I ask myself why this abomination of a team is still allowed here in the WWE. Why are they been given chance to earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber when the British Empire is more deserving of their chances after just three WWE matches together?

A ‘Hardy!’ chant goes up, the crowd want to see Matt and Jeff come out and shut Regal’s mouth ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
Tonight, your heroes, the Hardys, will waste another chance at glory. Tonight, the British Empire makes a stand and proves to you all that not only is Britain superior to America, not only is the British Empire more deserving of an Elimination Chamber place than the Hardys but that it is time that all of you morons in the WWE Universe ...

Morons? Way to impress the crowd, Regal!

WILLIAM REGAL:
... all of you morons will take notice and realise that we are here ... to dominate the WWE!

Boos and jeers again as Regal tosses the microphone away and turns back to Mason Ryan and Finlay who look impressed by what he said and clearly agree with him ...

*** LOADED ***

*** HARDY BOYS ***

An explosion of noise in the arena as the Hardys, reunited for a match for the first time in three years, come racing out onto the stage and greet the fans together in a classic SMACKDOWN moment. The electric in the air is palpable and Matt and Jeff hug on stage before racing down to the ring and sliding under the bottom rope. The Empire take leave of the ring for a moment to allow the Hardys chance to jump up on the ropes and salute the crowd ‘Hardy-style’ as Foley excitedly claims them to be the WWE’s greatest ever tag team and says he loves seeing them back together and ready to rock the world once more. Grisham runs down the impressive achievements of the Hardys – seven time Tag Team Champions, innovators of the infamous TLC matches as well as numerous singles titles including Jeff capturing the World Championship back in late 2008 – before they turn and face the Empire and beckon them to get in the ring to begin the match tonight. Matt and Jeff look determined to win the match, earn their spots in the Elimination Chamber match and – as Foley points out – propel themselves into major contention for a Tag Team Championship match as well. The Empire climb back into the ring and Regal and Ryan hand over their title belts to the referee who also orders Finlay out of the ring and to stay out of the contest.

TAG TEAM MATCH: If Hardy Boys win, they earn a spot in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match
MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL vs. HARDY BOYS


The Tag Team Champions waste time early as they try to rile up the Hardys who are desperate to get back into their Tag Team routine right now – Regal continues to hold up Matt who is starting out for them. When Regal finally starts the match properly, Hardy takes the early advantage before tagging in Jeff who continues. The turning point comes when Finlay – as ever – causes a distraction to Jeff and this allows Regal to tag in the powerhouse, Mason Ryan. In comes the Welsh enforcer of the team and he mows down Jeff with a shoulder block before ramming into Matt and knocking him flying off the apron. Ryan goes after Jeff now and slams him hard into the mat several times before a mean looking leg drop off that gets a 2-count. A tag to Regal follows and now Regal can apply his technical assault as he hits several suplexes and submission style holds that weaken Jeff. Matt is back on the apron and is desperate for the tag but Jeff cannot get to him. When he does manage to hit a mule kick to Regal and starts to crawl over towards his brother, Mason Ryan tags in and again knocks Matt off the apron just in time. Jeff slumps and this allows Mason to stomp on his lower back over and over before dragging him to the centre of the ring. Regal takes the tag and he goes straight for Jeff who is in trouble here ... REGAL STRETCH! JEFF HARDY COULD BE FORCED TO TAP TO REGAL HERE! Jeff is scrambling for the ropes but he can’t reach, will he have to tap out here? In comes a fired up Matt, he is fed up of the tactics of the Empire and he runs over and kicks Regal in the head before surprising Ryan with a shot to the face. The referee grabs Matt and ushers him away as Regal tags Mason Ryan back in, the Welshman comes in and looks to set up for his powerbomb finisher ... Jeff counters into a DDT and both men are down on the mat. Jeff crawls over slowly, he is inching closer and closer ... Tag to Matt! Ryan also tags in Regal, here we go, the fight is on now! Matt and Regal trade blows, this is not the way Regal likes to wrestle! Matt hits a kick to the knee of Regal and then hooks his head and suplexes him over and crashes him down on the mat. As Regal staggers up, Matt tags in Jeff who backs away to the corner ... Matt drops to his knees in front of Regal, Jeff runs over and uses Matt as a springboard, clothesline to Regal in the corner. In comes Ryan again, this is breaking down now, Jeff ducks under his clothesline though and Matt surprises him with a huge clothesline that staggers Ryan through the ropes and to the outside with a thud. Matt exits the ring as per the orders of the ref as Jeff lifts himself up onto the middle rope ... Missile dropkick from the ropes by Jeff! 2-count only though! Jeff tags in Matt again, he comes in and whips Regal to the ropes before catching him with a reverse elbow and then clotheslining him down to the mat. As Regal slowly gets up, Matt waits and waits ... Side Effect! Regal crashes down hard, he is in trouble here ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Ryan drags Hardy out with the legs to the outside! Matt and Mason Ryan trade blows and the Welsh Dragon is getting the better of it until Jeff comes around the corner of the ring, balancing on the top of the barricades and hits a diving clothesline to the big man that knocks him down once more. Matt clobbers Finlay next before he rolls back into the ring and he waits ... Could it be time for the Twist of Fate? Matt tries but Regal counters by shoving him away, Regal looks for a tag but there is no partner there ... he turns around and Matt hits him with a dropkick that staggers him into the corner ... TWIST OF FATE! MATT HITS THE TWIST OF FATE! Matt looks down on Regal and then runs over and tags in Jeff instead of making the cover ... Jeff climbs the ropes ... SWANTON BOMB! JEFF HARDY HITS THE SWANTON BOMB ON REGAL! Jeff makes the cover as Matt takes down Mason Ryan again on the outside to keep him away ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
HARDY BOYS (6:48) via pinfall
A huge reaction greets the 3-count and the crowd go wild for the result – Matt and Jeff Hardy have qualified for the Elimination Chamber match! Matt returns to the ring and the brothers hug in the middle of the ring, one of these two men could win the World Championship in just three weeks time, their smiles are spread wide across their face. The British Empire have skulked away embarrassed by their first defeat as a team in the WWE since their formation and the Hardys continue to celebrate and salute the crowd who are cheering for them. However ...

???:
Can I have your attention please?


*** MICHAEL COLE ***
SMACKDOWN GENERAL MANAGER

Boos and jeers erupt around the arena once more as the SMACKDOWN General Manager comes out for a second time carrying a microphone and smiling broadly ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Matt, Jeff ... Congratulations. I promised that if you won tonight, you would get a shot at the World Championship in the Elimination Chamber. I am a man of my word and that is exactly what you will get ...

Matt and Jeff nod their heads but there is a look of suspicion in their eyes ...

MICHAEL COLE:
So, next week, live on SMACKDOWN, as well as the Buried Alive match between Kane and the Undertaker ...

Cheers for next week’s main event match from the WWE Universe.

MICHAEL COLE:
... there will also be one final qualifying match.

Furrowed brows around the arena, how many spaces are there in the Elimination Chamber? CM Punk is defending the title, Christian could qualify later, Kofi Kingston and Big Show have already qualified tonight, one of Undertaker and Kane could also qualify as well as the Hardys ... How can there be any more qualifiers?

MICHAEL COLE:
I promised you a shot at the Elimination Chamber and the World Championship, gentlemen. I promised you ... A shot.

Boos begin to echo around the arena as the truth dawns on the WWE Universe and the Hardys. Only one of them is getting a spot in the Chamber ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Just one of you will be in the Chamber and I’ve made a decision – next week, on SMACKDOWN Live, it will be brother vs. brother in the main event ... and it will be brother vs. brother in the other qualifier too. Next week, Jeff Hardy goes one on one ... with Matt Hardy!

The crowd are not impressed and Matt and Jeff are stood dumbfounded in the ring. Why has Cole made that decision? Cole turns and heads back off the stage and out of sight as the crowd digest what they have just heard. Todd Grisham reminds us of the Elimination Chamber line up as it stands at the moment: CM Punk defends against Big Show, Kofi Kingston, one of the Hardys, one of Undertaker and Kane ... and, if he can upset the odds and defeat Cena and Punk later tonight in a Handicap match, Christian. As the camera switches backstage, the Hardys continue to look amazed at the last announcement before we see a jovial Kofi Kingston walking backstage.


*** KOFI KINGSTON ***

He slaps hands with Trent Barretta who is wandering around and congratulates him, he gives a hug to Eve Torres and he also greets some of the other backstage members before opening the door to enter the locker room. As the door opens though, Kofi walks right into a huge ham of a fist ... BOOM! KNOCKOUT PUNCH! Kofi is knocked cold immediately and WWE officials swarm around him as the man who delivered the punch appears ...


*** BIG SHOW ***

Show stands over the fallen Kofi and he smiles widely as he looks down on him. The officials plead with him to leave Kofi alone and then Show drops to one knee as he looks down on Kofi ...

BIG SHOW:
Congratulations on your win tonight, Kofi. I’ll see you in the Elimination Chamber!

The crowd boo as Show lifts himself back up and steps away from Kingston as if nothing has happened, smiling as he walks away and the medics have to tend to the fallen Ghanaian as well now.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns and Grisham and Foley suggest that there must be something in the water tonight with the number of sneak attacks – Hawkins and Swagger on Ryder; Del Rio on Mysterio and now, with replays shown, Big Show on Kofi Kingston. Foley wonders whether or not there is more to come tonight as Cena and Punk team up to face Christian in a Handicap match where a Christian win would see him qualify for the Elimination Chamber match for the World Championship.

*** SLOW CHEMICAL ***

*** KANE ***

Eerie music, a sudden fading of the light and then a stream of red smoke signals the arrival of the Big Red Monster, Kane, as he enters the arena ready for his match tonight. He slowly walks towards the ring as Foley and Grisham discuss next week’s Elimination Chamber qualifier between the Devil’s Favourite Demon and his brother, the Undertaker. Foley is excited that the pair of them are ready to face each other in a Buried Alive match, a chance to end their feud once and for all after it has dominated SMACKDOWN one way or another since the previous May. Kane enters the ring and drops his hands to set off his huge red explosions in the four corners of the ring and he looks around with a menacing look on his face as he awaits his opponent tonight ...

*** CLAVICLE ***

*** EVAN BOURNE ***

Poor, poor Evan Bourne! With Kane in no mood for showing any mercy, he tentatively makes his way towards the ring with a look of concern on his face. Kane is pacing the ring waiting for him and he seems to have a point to prove as he prepares for his match with Undertaker next Friday night – and Bourne appears to be in the way. As Evan steps into the ring, he straightens up and looks towards Kane who laughs at him. Bourne shows a lot of guts as he pulls off his shirt and tosses it to the crowd before saluting them but he seems to be a sitting duck here ...

SINGLES MATCH
EVAN BOURNE vs. KANE


A complete massacre here as Evan Bourne never ever gets started aside from one or two little flurries of kick combinations that have little to no effect on the Big Red Monster. Kane’s power is too much and he looks determined and fired up tonight after the announcement earlier of Kane’s match with the Undertaker next week. A side slam from Kane squashes Bourne down on the mat before he stands back with a maniacal grin on his face ... waiting ... CHOKE SLAM! KANE WITH THE CHOKE SLAM TO BOURNE. This one is over! But wait? What is Kane doing? Kane drags Bourne up and decides that he wants to send a message! With Bourne propped up against him, Kane looks out to the crowd and performs Taker’s cut throat taunt before lifting Bourne up ... TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER! KANE WITH THE TOMBSTONE! Kane makes the cover, it’s irrelevant, it’s over ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
KANE (2:17) via pinfall
As Bourne rolls out of the ring and is helped away by officials, Kane stands in the centre of the ring and he laughs once more – he has sent a clear message to his brother here tonight. There is no doubt that Kane is ready and desperate to extinguish Undertaker from his very existence, thirsty to end the era of the Deadman once and for all. Kane is talking to himself and he then sets off his pyro once more as the crowd boo him. Foley and Grisham again remind us: NEXT WEEK, BURIED ALIVE MATCH – KANE vs. UNDERTAKER! The winner goes to the Elimination Chamber to challenge for the World Championship. As Kane celebrates his convincing win, the camera switches to the locker room and shows Christian preparing. Another man who has a huge match to earn himself a place in the Elimination Chamber. However, if people think Kane and Undertaker have it tough, Christian has it worse – a Handicap match against the Royal Rumble winner John Cena and the World Champion CM Punk.


*** RAW REBOUND ***

A video airs that reminds us of the action from this week’s edition of Monday Night RAW where the four main contenders to become Number 1 contender for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship were determined. It focuses on the issues between Triple H and Kurt Angle and begins with Hunter stating that he deserves a fair, one on one shot at Barrett’s WWE Championship after Nexus’ involvement cost him on Sunday at the Rumble. Clips of the Rumble are shown as well as Kurt Angle’s actions the week before that meant Triple H had to face Barrett with Nexus at ringside in the first place. Angle’s interruption is shown as he vows that he will never be spoken down to by Hunter again before HBK’s announcement that there will be four matches tonight to determine the four men to battle for the Number 1 contendership next week. Quick clips of Daniel Bryan’s win over Sheamus, John Morrison’s victory over Edge (controversially) and Miz beating Orton thanks to Cena’s distraction. We then focus on the main event where Kurt Angle and Triple H would face each other for the final Fatal Four Way spot. Clips of the match and some big moves are shown before we see Hunter set up for the Pedigree and then ... two mystery men dressed in red, white and blue arrive and cause a distraction that allows Angle to hit the Angle Slam to earn the 1, 2, 3 and a place in next week’s Number 1 contender match. As the video ends, Triple H looks pissed off in the ring as Angle and the two mystery men back away up the ramp smiling ...

NEXT WEEK: Daniel Bryan vs. John Morrison vs. Kurt Angle vs The Miz (Winner to challenge for WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber)

SMACKDOWN returns and Foley and Grisham discuss the mystery men who appeared during the main event to aid Kurt Angle in qualifying for the Number 1 contender match. Neither of them know the identity of the two mystery men but Grisham says that they have pictures of the two men and they show them ...


Grisham says that nothing has been heard from Kurt Angle or the two mystery men since Monday night so it appears that the WWE Universe will need to wait until Monday night to find out more about the acquaintances of the Olympian, Kurt Angle. The camera switches backstage to Josh Mathews who is stood waiting with his microphone ready to conduct an interview ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time ... the World Heavyweight Champion, CM PUNK!

A mixed reaction to Punk although there are more cheers than there has been after his show of respect for Christian earlier tonight when he interrupted John Cena’s interview in the ring. Punk looks troubled as he adjusts his World Championship over his shoulder, he sighs as he turns to speak to Josh Mathews ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Tonight, Punk, you team up with the Royal Rumble winner, John Cena, to face off against Christian in a Handicap match. It appeared that, earlier tonight, you didn’t seem pleased by this. What are your thoughts now?

Punk turns and stares towards Mathews, a look of bewilderment on his face, as he considers his response to the question. Punk looks completely torn over the situation. He thinks carefully for a second and then answers ...

CM PUNK:
Josh, you don’t need to be Einstein to realise that I’m not happy over the situation. Last Sunday night, I faced Christian for my World Heavyweight Championship and we went at it big time. The only way I could defeat him was to lock in the Anaconda Vice and hold it until he could no longer remain conscious.

Punk reaches up and scratches the side of his face, he is in a real quandary here ...

CM PUNK:
Do I like Christian? No, not particularly. But I respect the hell outta’ him after his efforts last Sunday. He didn’t tap out, he fought and fought until he couldn’t remain conscious anymore. With the Elimination Chamber up ahead, I want to see Christian in the match, I want the chance to beat him fair and decisively in the middle of the ring.

Some admiration from the WWE Universe for Punk’s words.

CM PUNK:
You see, Josh, when I claim to be the ‘Best in the World’ I mean it. I prove it each and every night and the whole world is now looking on and thinking to themselves ... “What if Christian hadn’t passed out? Could CM Punk have beaten him?”

Punk shakes his head a little ...

CM PUNK:
That irritates me. I have a need to prove that I can beat Christian. I have a need to prove that I am what I say I am – the ‘Best in the World’ – by beating Christian for the World Heavyweight Championship. That is why I want to see Christian given a place in the Chamber.

Punk laughs to himself ...

CM PUNK:
I want to beat Christian to prove that I am worthy of holding this. Punk lifts up the title belt. And regardless of what Michael Cole might want, I want to beat him in a fair contest. I have no interest in having a moron like Cole help me to win a match, I have no interest in teaming with Cena to defeat Christian. I didn’t need no help from Cole to win this title – I don’t want no help from Cole to retain it either.

Punk looks a little fired up, he looks insulted that Cole has tried so hard to help him lately ...

CM PUNK:
But whilst I don’t want to win a title with Cole’s help, I certainly don’t want to lose my title because of Michael Cole. In the main event tonight, I have been forced by Cole to team up with Cena to face Christian in a Handicap match. If I beat Christian, he will not get a chance to be in the Elimination Chamber, I won’t have my chance to prove that I am a worthy World Champion again. If I allow Christian to get the win, Michael Cole will begin to do what he can to cost me the World Championship. I can tell you know, I am not willing to let that happen.

Punk shakes his head as he turns to face the camera.

CM PUNK:
Michael Cole, let me tell you something. I am the World Heavyweight Champion because I am the best and I will not allow you to take that away from me. Tonight, I will beat Christian, I will reluctantly team with Cena and I will ensure that Christian misses out on the Elimination Chamber. But don’t you think I’m doing it to help you. For what it is worth, I still believe Christian should be in the Elimination Chamber. Not because the fans want him there – I don’t care what they think. Mild heat for this statement. But because I want to face him and prove who the better man is. I suggest that you make it happen.

Punk turns and exits leaving Josh to thank him and the camera switches to the locker room where Christian is shown watching Punk’s interview on the monitor. He nods his head at Punk’s words, he seems to be in agreement with them as he prepares for his match. In walks Matt Striker with a microphone and Christian smiles to him showing him that he is prepared to speak to him ...

MATT STRIKER:
Christian, man, tonight you can qualify for the Elimination Chamber World Championship match. A wonderful opportunity but there is the problem of the match being a Handicap match against the World Champion and the Royal Rumble winner as per the orders of the SMACKDOWN General Manager, Michael Cole. Thoughts?

Christian grimaces as Striker asks the question, he is clearly upset over the situation that he finds himself in. He shakes his head a little before speaking ...

CHRISTIAN:
Michael Cole, there is a name not to mention to most people in the SMACKDOWN locker room. Since he became General Manager, all he has done is make matches and situations that suit him and the people he likes. People like Cena, people that say the right things to him, people that creep around him, people that benefit him. Back at Vengeance when I defeated Matt Hardy to earn a shot at CM Punk’s World Championship, Cole tried to belittle me and Matt in front of the worldwide audience. Since then, he has intimated that I didn’t deserve to face CM Punk for the title, he tried to interfere in my title match and now he is working against me to try and ensure I won’t be in the Elimination Chamber match ...

Christian pauses as he considers his next words carefully ...

CHRISTIAN:
Now, I have just listened to CM Punk’s words and I agree with what he is saying. I know that tonight he has no choice but to work with Cena to try and defeat me. I understand that. And I appreciate his attempts to get me another title shot at the Elimination Chamber. Fact is – I was this close ... Christian holds up his thumb and finger to indicate. ... to winning the World Championship last Sunday. I wasn’t willing to give up my dream, I refused to tap out and I only lost because I passed out. Tonight, I am going to give it everything I have got. It’s the only chance I’ve got to earn myself a spot in the Chamber – Cole isn’t going to give me another chance. Stranger things have happened, Matt. You never know – I might be able to pull off a miracle.

Christian winks at Striker and then turns to leave the locker room as Striker thanks him. The cameras switch back to the ring where the WWE Universe are ready and waiting for the main event to begin ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***

*** JOHN CENA ***

Cena heads out for the second time this evening, he looks as if he is determined to end Christian’s dream here tonight. He mocks the fans by waving his hand over his face again and then makes his way towards the ring as Grisham reminds us of Cena’s busy last few days: winning the Rumble on Sunday; distracting Orton and costing him his WWE Championship chance on RAW; and now facing Christian to try and end his World Championship chances tonight. Foley suggests that getting on with and working well with CM Punk tonight might prove to be his hardest challenge of the week ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***

*** CM PUNK ***
World Heavyweight Champion

Punk comes out looking less than impressed with what he has to do tonight. He is so annoyed that he doesn’t even drop to a knee and call out that it is ‘clobbering time’ – he simply walks to the ring where he is eyeballing John Cena who is stood in the ring waiting. Cena gestures to Punk to get into the ring, he is mocking Punk over the fact that he has got to assist him in this match. Punk steps into the ring and he walks towards the Royal Rumble winner – Grisham comments that as it stands – with a long way to go, of course – this is the WrestleMania 27 main event. World Champion CM Punk vs. Royal Rumble winner John Cena. How are they going to co-exist in this match against Christian?

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with Michael Cole shown on the commentary table alongside Foley and Grisham. He is insulting both of the commentators whilst demanding that Punk does what he has told him to do ...

*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***

*** CHRISTIAN ***

Out walks Christian to a great reception, the WWE Universe are fully behind him tonight as he surveys them looking for his Peeps. He walks to the ring and he climbs through the ring ropes where he comes face to face with his opponents in this Handicap match. Cole is clearly adamant that Punk and Cena will team up to destroy Christian’s dream here tonight. Cena mocks Christian and his chances here tonight whilst CM Punk watches on, a grim look on his face as he considers what he has to do tonight. The referee checks on all three men, takes CM Punk’s World Championship belt and signals for the match to begin ...

MAIN EVENT HANDICAP MATCH: If Christian wins, he earns a spot in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match
CHRISTIAN vs. CM PUNK & JOHN CENA


The match starts with Christian going up against Cena with Punk waiting for the tag from his ‘partner’ on the outside. Christian and Cena work well together as usual and Christian manages to get on top when he climbs to the top rope to hit a Plancha to Cena on the outside of the ring. Rolling Cena back into the ring, the Rumble winner takes the easy way out and makes a rather forceful tag to CM Punk who reluctantly enters the ring. Punk and Christian stand looking at each other and Punk looks troubled. He clearly tells Christian that he has no choice and the pair of them begin with a tie up that leads to Christian getting on top again as he continues to put up a fight here. A springboard shoulder block to Punk brings the first pinfall attempt but Christian can only hold Punk down for a 2. Cena begins to berate Punk from the outside and something isn’t right with Punk – maybe his heart isn’t in this but he seems a second slower all the time and Christian has his number. Finally, Punk manages some offense and he catches Christian coming towards him in the corner with a boot but his attempted bulldog fails when Christian tosses him away across the ring instead. Punk gets to his knees, shakes his head and ignores Cena who reaches over and slaps Punk on the back, a tag in. As Punk looks at Cena with a look of disdain, Cena smirks and motions a title belt around his waist before going after Christian and catching him with a kick to the gut. Cena takes control and he looks to be getting the better of Christian before he tags CM Punk back in who – again, seemingly reluctant – goes to work on Christian. Punk sets up for the Go To Sleep but Christian is able to fight out of it and he elbows Punk to the head before setting Punk up once more ... KILLSWITCH! CHRISTIAN SURPRISES PUNK WITH THE KILLSWITCH! The WWE Universe is in shock as Christian looks to have Punk beat, he hooks the leg ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! No! Cena rescues Punk just in time with a shot to Christian’s exposed head. Punk rolls over and looks to Cena who looks annoyed with him now. Cena berates Punk some more and really rips into him for almost losing the match. Cena goes back to his spot on the apron and demands Punk finish Christian now, instead Punk walks over to Cena and slap him hard across the face. Wow! Cena swings for Punk who ducks and drags Cena into the ring, he lifts him onto his shoulders all of a sudden ... GO TO SLEEP! PUNK HITS CENA WITH THE GTS! The WWE Universe are actually cheering CM Punk for his actions now but he then spoils it as he looks over at Christian who is climbing up opposite. Punk catches him in the corner with a running knee and follows with a Bulldog ... The referee is trying to speak to Punk but he ignores him, he is now fired up and is ready to fight with whoever he has to. Punk drags Christian up and lifts him onto his shoulders ... GO TO SLEEP! CHRISTIAN IS HIT WITH THE GTS THIS TIME! Punk makes the cover and hooks the leg ... but the referee fails to make a count. Cena is the legal man! When Punk slapped Cena, the referee took it as a tag! CM Punk holds his head in shock as Christian rolls out of the ring and the referee begins to count both men out. The referee reaches 7 and Cena rolls back into the ring ... Will Christian make it? Suddenly, Punk runs round the ring and he drags Christian up ... 8 ... Christian is about to be counted out but Punk seems to be helping him ... 9 ... Punk rolls Christian into the ring to the amazement of Cena who demands to know what CM Punk is playing at! Punk ignores him and returns to the corner as Cena continues to have a pop at him before grabbing Christian and lifting him up to his shoulders ... FU! CENA HITS THE FU TO CHRISTIAN! Christian is down and out but Cena doesn’t make the pinfall; instead he tags in Punk again and points to Christian, demanding Punk finish the job. On the ramp, look who is here ...


*** MICHAEL COLE ***

Cole wanders down the ramp and stands with his hands in his pocket outside the ring. He glares at Punk and orders him to finish Christian as well but Punk remains stoic in the ring. Punk is in a real dilemma here, will he finish Christian’s dream or will he sacrifice himself? Cole climbs onto the apron and the pressure from Cena and Cole increases, they are both demanding Punk finish it but Christian is showing signs of life. Christian pulls himself up with the ropes and Cole shouts to Punk to finish it ... Christian spots Cole and grabs him by the lapels of his jacket, Cole swings and punches Christian in the face ... As Cole orders the referee not to signal for a DQ, Christian spins into the path of Punk ... GO TO SLEEP! PUNK HITS THE GTS TO CHRISTIAN! The crowd are disappointed but you sense they understand as Punk drops down and covers Christian ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
CM PUNK & JOHN CENA (7:12) via pinfall
Punk rolls away from Christian after his pinfall – he stands up and looks down to Christian with a look of what appears to be dismay at what he has had to do. He looks over to a delighted Michael Cole and Cena with a look of disgust as they back away. Cole, laughing to himself, gives Punk a mocking thumbs up before walking away from the ring smirking, Cena again signals that he is going to take CM Punk’s World Championship soon. As Christian rolls over and realises what has happened, he looks up at Punk who holds his arms out as if to ask what else he could have done. Punk exits the ring and he looks up the ramp towards the SMACKDOWN General Manager who continues to smirk as the camera switches between the men involved in tonight’s main event ... SMACKDOWN comes to a close with Christian looking devastated as he fails to earn his title opportunity thanks to Michael Cole. Join us next week on SMACKDOWN: Matt Hardy vs. Jeff Hardy, Undertaker vs. Kane in a Buried Alive match and who will be given the final Elimination Chamber spot? Find out next Friday!

*** END OF SHOW ***

***********************************


ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011
*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff/Matt Hardy vs. Kane/Undertaker vs. ???

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ???

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. Daniel Bryan/John Morrison/Kurt Angle/The Miz

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla vs. Michelle McCool (?)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***
 
#112 ·
January 31st, 2011: RAW



MONDAY NIGHT RAW LIVE
RUPP ARENA, LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
MONDAY JANUARY 31ST, 2011


*** BURN IT TO THE GROUND ***

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***



As the pyro explodes around the arena, the WWE Universe here in Lexington are going wild with signs held up showing support for superstars such as Triple H, Randy Orton and Justin Gabriel. JR and King are on commentary and they build up the hype for tonight’s show where we expect to see a Number 1 contender for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship decided as well as John Cena’s proposition for Randy Orton as well ...

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** WADE BARRETT ***
WWE Champion

Sauntering out with the WWE Championship around his waist, Wade Barrett heads out towards the ring without his Nexus team-mates for a change. He stands looking around the arena at the bottom of the ramp before he walks around the outside and takes a seat at the side of the announce table as JR introduces him as being a guest announcer for the next match.

JIM ROSS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, the WWE Champion, Wade Barrett. Welcome, Mr. Barrett, thanks for joining us here for this match tonight.

WADE BARRETT:
You’re welcome, JR, always good to come out here and check out future opponents – not that I’ll need any help with beating any of these four, of course.

JERRY LAWLER:
No Nexus with you tonight, Wade?

Barrett casts an annoyed look towards the King but he refrains from answering as attention turns towards the ring announcer ...

JUSTIN ROBERTS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, this match is set for one fall. The winner of the match will challenge for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship at the Elimination Chamber PPV in three weeks.

*** RIDE OF THE VALKYRIES ***

*** DANIEL BRYAN ***

The former US Champion Daniel Bryan heads out with a smile on his face, he looks ready for his big opportunity here tonight as he sidesteps his way down the ramp towards the ring ...

WADE BARRETT:
If this is the standard of challengers for my WWE Championship, my reign as champion is definitely going to be a long one, gents.

JERRY LAWLER:
Daniel Bryan, former US Champion, he’s been on a roll since his arrival here in the WWE last summer. Didn’t he join the WWE with you in NXT?

WADE BARRETT:
Yeah, he did. I kicked him out of Nexus too. Remember?

Bryan steps between the ropes and he jumps up onto the middle rope to salute the fans in the arena, he raises his finger in the air as the crowd give him a good pop. He jumps off the ropes and then he approaches the ropes where he looks over towards the smirking Wade Barrett as he holds the WWE Championship across his lap.

*** MEDAL ***

*** KURT ANGLE ***

Attention turns towards the ramp as the Olympic Hero Kurt Angle heads out – alone – and he stands at the top of the ramp and points towards the ceiling. An explosion of red, white and blue fireworks accompany Angle as he strides down the ramp looking pumped up and determined to get a victory tonight. There is no sign of the two mystery men who came to the ring last week and assisted Angle’s win over Triple H, he’s here on his own.

JIM ROSS:
1996 Olympic gold medal winner, 2000 King of the Ring, a six time World Champion and a Grand Slam champion, a sure fire Hall of Famer. Surely this man is worth an opportunity at the WWE Championship?

WADE BARRETT:
All very impressive, JR, there’s no doubt that Kurt Angle has done it all here in the WWE. The fact is, though, he is too old, past it, he’s not on my level no more. If he wins this match, I’ll have no problem showing him that the only red, white and blue that counts is that of Her Majesty, the Queen.

Angle is in the ring and he looks towards Daniel Bryan and then Wade Barrett with a smile on his face, it appears that he is extremely confident in his abilities tonight ...

*** AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE ***

*** JOHN MORRISON ***

The slo-mo entrance of Morrison plays out and he heads out with a multi-coloured pyro behind him before he raises his arm in the air. He heads towards the ring with his long coat fluttering behind him and then he swings into the ring and salutes the fans again ...

WADE BARRETT:
Another man who is completely undeserving of this opportunity, JR, King. What has he done in the WWE to deserve a chance to challenge me for the WWE Championship? Nothing. John Morrison is an habitual loser, he wins matches against nobodies but when he comes up against somebody with a little bit of talent, he loses.

JERRY LAWLER:
Give it a rest, Barrett. Quite a few people would argue that you were undeserving of the WWE Championship when you won it ...

*** AWESOME – I CAME TO PLAY ***

*** THE MIZ ***
Current holder of the ‘Money in the Bank’ contract

Arrogant and cocky, here comes Miz. He raises his hands in the air and then heads for the ring with his overcoat flowing behind him, he looks determined to win the match tonight. There is a noticeable absentee for Miz as well – his Money in the Bank briefcase. With his big opportunity tonight, Miz appears to be focused on this match and not on what might happen in the future.

JIM ROSS:
Whilst many people might despise him, there is no argument that Miz is on a roll right now. He has several big wins under his belt right now, he seems destined to be the WWE Champion ...

WADE BARRETT:
Destined to be WWE Champion? I don’t think so, JR. I am the WWE Champion, there is nobody here that can beat me, not Bryan, not Angle, not Morrison and definitely not Miz. Never going to happen.

Miz is in the ring and mouthing off to the other men in the match – particularly his old rivals, Morrison and Bryan – before he perches on the ropes and signals that he is one of the greats in the WWE. The referee clears the ring of all extra bits before he signals for the bell, here we go, time to determine the Number 1 contender.

FATAL FOUR WAY MATCH – WINNER FACES WADE BARRETT FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT ELIMINATION CHAMBER
DANIEL BRYAN vs. JOHN MORRISON vs. KURT ANGLE vs. THE MIZ


A hard hitting, fast paced match as all four men go at it with a clear desire to become the Number 1 contender and to head to the Elimination Chamber to face Wade Barrett for the WWE Championship. After the initial flurry of activity in the match, the four men split into two pairs as Angle and Bryan lock up inside the ring whilst Morrison and Miz lock up outside the ring. Morrison and Miz’ personal issues overflow as they battle on the outside and the barricades and ring steps come into play as both men feel the pain of them on their backs. Inside the ring, Angle and Bryan – as fits their style – are more focused on wrestling and they roll around the mat trying to lock in submission holds, particularly the Ankle Lock for Kurt and the Le Bell Lock for Bryan. At one point, Angle manages to lock Bryan into the Ankle Lock and Bryan is struggling to get to the ropes. Realising that this could lead to a defeat, Miz, who has Morrison down on the outside, runs in and kicks Angle hard in the exposed side and this allows him to break the hold before Bryan can tap out.

Morrison manages to get back into the ring and we have periods of time for all four men to take charge of the match. Near falls become more and more frequent as all four men look to keep one of the other three down but there is always some other guy to break the pinfall before we can see if there was going to be a kick out. Bryan manages to lock Miz in the Le Bell Lock with Morrison and Angle down but Miz makes it to the ropes – a few months ago, he’d have tapped out like he did on the night where he lost the US Championship to Bryan at Night of Champions. The crowd are split between Bryan and Morrison as the match snakes and heads towards a conclusion but it appears over when Bryan sails off the top rope and connects with a Diving Headbutt to Angle. He hooks the leg, neither Miz or Morrison is going to make it, 1 ... 2 ... Almost! Angle kicks out at the last second and Bryan holds his head in despair, he was so close to earning a WWE Championship shot just there.

WADE BARRETT:
So close there for Daniel Bryan, I’d have liked to have seen him get the win there. It would be as if I’d been given the night off for the Elimination Chamber ...

Arrogant attitude from Barrett on the outside but inside the ring, Bryan continues to go for it. He spots Miz coming in and he quickly climbs the ropes ... Missile Dropkick from Bryan to Miz! The crowd are cheering, they are liking the idea that Daniel Bryan could get the win here and challenge for the WWE Championship in just under three weeks. Morrison comes through the ropes and Bryan hits a knee to the side of his head that collapses him, the match is looking like Bryan’s to lose. Daniel takes Morrison down to the mat face first and locks in the Le Bell Lock once again! LE BELL LOCK TO JOHN MORRISON! WILL HE TAP? Bryan is screaming as he desperately tries to force a tap out from Morrison, pulling back as hard as he can, forcing Morrison closer and closer to tapping. Morrison is trying to edge back towards the ropes but Bryan has this locked in right in the centre of the ring here, how is he going to escape this? As Morrison seems to slump and the hope leaves him, he is about to tap out ... when suddenly here comes Miz! Miz rushes over, realising that if Morrison taps, his WWE Championship hopes also go up in smoke, he kicks Bryan hard in the head and this breaks the Le Bell Lock just in time. Morrison, the pain eased, rolls out of the ring, clutching his neck and shoulders, as Miz starts blasting Bryan hard with kicks to the back and shoulders.

WADE BARRETT:
Look at Morrison, weak. He’s showing a weakness, I would never have even got into the position with Bryan there ...

JERRY LAWLER:
Of course you wouldn’t, you’d have got your buddies to drag Bryan out of the ring before he could lock it on!

Barrett looks less than impressed with Lawler’s comments as the camera flicks to him for a moment but then the camera returns to Miz in the ring. The ‘awesome’ one edges back, he allows Bryan to pull himself up as he holds his hands out wide, he is waiting to strike ... SKULL CRUSHING FINALE! MIZ STRIKES WITH THE SKULL CRUSHING FINALE TO BRYAN! Miz rolls Bryan over, he hooks the leg ... 1 ... 2 ... Angle breaks the pin! Just in the nick of time, Kurt Angle rolls into the ring and he crashes into the back of Miz. As the pair of them are on their knees over Bryan, Angle and Miz fire right hands at each other over and over and then they roll under the bottom rope as they trade hands trying to get the upper hand. Angle is the one who gets the better of it and he grabs Miz with the back of the neck and rams him hard into the steel ring posts, they crash apart as Miz hits them so hard. Confident now, Angle heads back into the ring and stands over Bryan who is struggling to his feet. Angle prepares for him and is crouching behind him, on his haunches, waiting for a chance ... He beckons to Bryan to turn round, he is waiting and waiting ... ANGLE SLAM! KURT ANGLE HITS THE ANGLE SLAM! It’s over! Angle is about to hook the leg of Daniel Bryan when all of a sudden ...

*** TIME TO PLAY THE GAME ***

*** TRIPLE H ***

Huge pop from the crowd as Triple H storms out towards the ring looking for revenge on Angle. The Olympian is in no doubt about who the Game is coming for and he stands up ready to defend himself. As Hunter stands at the bottom of the ramp and looks up into the eyes of Angle ready to spoil his chances of winning something, there is another commotion behind – here come Angle’s mystery men that we first saw last night! Both of them barrel into the back of Triple H and crash him down from behind, Hunter though manages to start fighting back and they end up fighting back up the ramp towards the entrance way. Angle applauds his men before turning his attention back to Daniel Bryan who is down and out ... He goes to make the cover ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Morrison drags Angle away by the legs, Angle is surprised and he spins round ... CHUCK KICK! MORRISON WITH THE SURPRISE CHUCK KICK! Angle staggers around, he is dazed ... Morrison rolls him up ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
JOHN MORRISON (11:38) via pinfall
An explosion of noise from the WWE Universe as Angle leaps up in surprise, he can’t believe that Morrison just caught him out there. As Angle stands there stunned, he turns to look up the ramp where Triple H has overcome Angle’s mystery men and is stood looking down at him with a grin on his face. “Payback is a bitch” calls out Hunter before he turns to leave and Angle rolls out of the ring to confront the referee who refuses to change his decision. Back in the ring, John Morrison is knelt down in the corner, breathing hard, a huge smile spreading across his face as he realises what he has done. He jumps onto the middle rope in the corner and salutes the fans once more before turning his head to face the WWE Champion on commentary ...

JIM ROSS:
At Elimination Chamber, it will be John Morrison challenging you for the WWE Championship, Mr. Barrett ...

WADE BARRETT:
Lucky win, JR, I don’t see any problems for me when I face him in three weeks.

JERRY LAWLER:
Is that because you know of four guys who won’t let you lose the match?

Barrett turns to smirk at Lawler and then he stands up to face Morrison who is signalling to Barrett’s WWE Championship belt ...

WADE BARRETT:
You need to keep out of my way, Morrison, stay up there. You are not going to win this ...

Barrett removes his title belt and he holds it up high for Morrison to admire as RAW head into the first commercial break of the evening ...



*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with replays of the exciting finish to the first match of the evening – Triple H’s distraction to deny Kurt Angle and then the surprise roll up from John Morrison that means, as JR enjoys informing us, that at the Elimination Chamber PPV in three weeks, it will be Wade Barrett against John Morrison for the WWE Championship. The cameras switch backstage where we see Kurt Angle stomping around and shoving things over, a look of fury all over his face, he heads back into the depths of the arena looking for somebody ... The cameras switch to Triple H who is also looking determined as he walks down a corridor before turning through a door marked ‘RAW General Manager’ where we see Shawn Michaels sat down. HBK gets up as Hunter walks in and glances to the side but Hunter wants a word with him ...

TRIPLE H:
Shawn, you know what I’m here for ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Hunter, wait, let me ...

TRIPLE H:
No, Shawn, listen to me. Last week, that pompous ass Angle blew my chance of getting another shot at Barrett and I want you to sort it. He brought those two morons out to the ring, I don’t know who they are or why they’re here but you got to sort this for me ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Hunter, you know, I think you should ...

TRIPLE H:
Shawn, you’re my buddy, sort this for me. Make the match at Elimination Chamber a Triple Threat – Barrett against Morrison and me. I need another shot at Barrett.

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Hunter, I ...

Off camera, there is an interruption as somebody coughs to get Triple H’s attention. The camera follows Triple H as he spins around and sat on another couch out of view is the owner of the WWE, Chip Butty. Hunter looks back at Michaels ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
I was trying to tell you, man, the boss is here tonight.

Butty stands up and walks over to Triple H and Shawn Michaels as they stand together in the middle of the room. He is smirking as he approaches them and shaking his head slightly ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Is that how it works here then? Triple H comes in and demands something, his good friend and RAW General Manager thinks of a way to make it happen?

HBK looks annoyed at the claim from his boss and shakes his head in denial ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Unfortunately for you, Triple H, I’m here tonight to keep an eye on the General Manager and I can tell you right now – you will NOT be involved in the Elimination Chamber WWE Championship match. You lost your match last week, Morrison won tonight, he will challenge for the title.

TRIPLE H:
Did you see what ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Excuse me, are you interrupting me, Hunter? Let’s get this straight, I’m in charge around here. I’m not a boss whose daughter you can marry so that you can get a leg up in the business.

An audible ‘Oooh’ is heard in the arena as Triple H backs down a little, Butty has made a bit of a point to him there. Hunter looks annoyed by the jibe but he also realises that he needs to back off here ...

CHIP BUTTY:
For your information, I did see your match with Kurt Angle last week and I did see your match with Wade Barrett at the Rumble. I know you’re not happy with the way that you lost those matches, neither am I, but you have to realise that sometimes life in the WWE isn’t fair. For example, I thought it was an interesting that you were even named the Number 1 contender in the first place ...

Butty looks to HBK who again looks annoyed that his boss is questioning the decisions that he has made.

CHIP BUTTY:
Now, correct me if I’m wrong, Shawn, I believe that after the first match of tonight, John Morrison will be challenging for the WWE Championship at the Chamber? And the three losers – Daniel Bryan, Miz and Kurt Angle – will take three of the six spots in the RAW Elimination Chamber match?

HBK nods his head and he opens his mouth to respond but again he is interrupted ...

CHIP BUTTY:
That means there are three spots left in the Chamber then. Sheamus is facing RVD tonight in a Qualifying match?

HBK again nods his head, he seems to have realised that he needs to just allow his boss to continue ...

CHIP BUTTY:
And that match is next up. Also, as we were just discussing, Shawn, before we were interrupted - (Butty looks pointedly towards Hunter) – I’ve decided that Chris Jericho will face Edge in another Elimination Chamber qualifier.

HBK looks on in reluctant agreement as Butty announces the involvement of the Rated R Superstar in the Qualifying for the Chamber match. Butty nods his head and then turns back to Hunter ...

CHIP BUTTY:
That leaves one space in the Elimination Chamber remaining, Hunter, one more space in the match to determine the challenger for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania. You fancy that spot?

Hunter looks quizzically at the boss and decides that he can now suggest something himself ...

TRIPLE H:
I would love a chance to earn that spot in the Chamber match. If the match is fair, if my opponent, whoever he is, doesn’t bring his friends from the locker room down, I’ll face anybody and anyone.

Butty smiles and looks as if he has a plan ...

CHIP BUTTY:
In that case, Hunter, you’ve got a match tonight. And I guarantee, you’ll not have to worry about Angle’s mystery men or facing the whole of Nexus at once. Tonight, Hunter, you will have an Elimination Chamber qualifier in the main event ...

Hunter looks towards Butty with a nod of his head, he still looks a little untrusting though ...

CHIP BUTTY:
... and it will be a Gauntlet Match, Hunter. If you can defeat four men, one after the other, then you will qualify for the Chamber. (Huge heat from the crowd, Hunter looks really annoyed) And your opponents will be – David Otunga, Heath Slater, Skip Sheffield and Ezekiel Jackson. Good luck, man!

As Hunter looks on speechless with rage, Butty pats him on the shoulder and then claps HBK on the back ...

CHIP BUTTY:
As for yourself, Shawn, don’t you have something to do? As I’ve told you already, this is MY office this evening, I am running things. Why don’t you get out there, find Orton and give him my message?

Arrogantly, Butty waves both Triple H and Shawn Michaels out of the office as he sits back down on the couch with a huge grin on his face.

CHIP BUTTY:
I love being in charge!

As Butty’s grinning face fades away and the camera switches back to the ring, more boos can be clearly heard, Butty’s recent actions are not winning him any friends with the WWE Universe. With the ring in the picture now, it is time for the first Elimination Chamber qualifier of the evening ...

*** ONE OF A KIND ***

*** ROB VAN DAM ***

Confident as usual, RVD heads towards the ring pointing his thumbs to himself and claiming that he is heading to WrestleMania as the fans reach out to slap hands with him. Into the ring he goes where he spins around to salute the fans who cheer him. JR and King are discussing how RVD will need to be on top form this evening if he is to put the stop to this man ...

*** WRITTEN IN MY FACE ***

*** SHEAMUS ***
(w/Hornswoggle)

With Hornswoggle running beside him, Sheamus strides out thumping his pale chest ready for action. A replay is shown of Sheamus’ defeat to Daniel Bryan last week and the beating that he laid down on Bryan afterwards as a result. JR suggests that Sheamus has been on a roll recently and that he would be a real danger if he were to be in the Chamber match. The Celtic Warrior steps up into the ring and points to the steps so that Hornswoggle knows where to wait for him.

SINGLES MATCH
ROB VAN DAM vs. SHEAMUS


RVD comes out of the blocks quickly and he catches the Celtic Warrior by surprise with a barrage of kicks that stagger Sheamus out of his usual rhythm. RVD manages to take Sheamus down several times but he can’t keep him down for long enough before Sheamus catches him with a double axe handle chop and then catches him with the Irish Curse backbreaker that leaves Van Dam squirming on the mat. Sheamus begins to dominate the match now and it is RVD who is trying to make the comebacks; unfortunately for him, he doesn’t have the power of the Celtic Warrior and these comebacks are pretty shortlived. When Sheamus lands several thumps to RVD’s chest whilst he is tied in the ropes, things are looking forlorn for the former ECW hero. A slam to the mat follows and Sheamus backs away to the corner of the ring, he is setting up for the finish now. RVD staggers to his feet and Sheamus runs to him ... BROG ... No! RVD ducks it and Sheamus ends up caught over the top rope instead! RVD surprises Sheamus with a monkey flip as he frees himself from the ropes and then comes off the ropes cartwheeling into a Rolling Thunder splash. RVD gets a 2 count and then he springboards off the ropes to hit a side kick that knocks Sheamus down once more. Sheamus looks furious as he tries to get up again – RVD comes off the ropes and connects with a spinning wheel kick, right on the jaw of Sheamus, his opponent collapses to the mat and RVD senses a chance now. Up to the top rope he goes, RVD is ready to fly ...

Noooooo! Sheamus avoids the contact from the 5-star Frog Splash and RVD eats the mat as he lands awkwardly and with a huge impact. As RVD bounces, Sheamus takes a second to recover whilst his opponent groggily gets to his feet ... BROGUE KICK! SHEAMUS CONNECTS WITH THE BROGUE KICK!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
SHEAMUS (5:17) via pinfall
Sheamus stands central in the ring with a look of delight on his face – he has qualified for the Elimination Chamber match with relative ease here tonight. As RVD rolls away disappointed, Sheamus mocks the crowd and points to himself and then to the WrestleMania 27 sign hanging in the rafters – it is clear that Sheamus believes he is heading to the big event to win the WWE Championship. As the crowd jeer him, Sheamus beckons his mascot, Hornswoggle, into the ring who looks equally excited now. For a change, Hornswoggle didn’t involve himself in the match tonight. JR and King recap the four qualifiers for the Chamber now – Bryan, Angle, Miz and now Sheamus with Edge or Jericho to come as well as, if he can defeat four members of Nexus later, Triple H.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with an argument ongoing backstage between two of the Elimination Chamber participants – the recently victorious Sheamus and the man who he handed a beatdown to last week, Daniel Bryan. Bryan is upset with Sheamus’ actions last week and they are straining to get to each other but the WWE security are keeping them apart and moving them away from each other. It is clear that these two still have some issues to be resolved ahead of their Chamber contest in just under three weeks time. The camera switches to the interview pit where Josh Matthews awaits ...

JOSH MATTHEWS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time – the man who will make a decision over whether he joins RAW or SMACKDOWN at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view ... CARLITO!

A small pop for the popular Caribbean who comes into view with an apple that he is throwing up and down in his right hand. He is smiling as he comes into the interview area ...

JOSH MATTHEWS:
Last week on RAW, Carlito, you teamed up with RVD last week to defeat Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins but tonight, you have your first singles match. Your thoughts?

CARLITO:
Ju’ know, last week, I teamed with RVD and dat was cool, man. My first match back here on RAW and I was a winner. I told everybody dat I would wrestle on both RAW and SMACKDOWN and den make a decision about which brand to choose. But do ju’ know what was not cool? (Carlito pauses for a moment before continuing on) Michael Cole, dat is what is not cool. (Big cheers for this comment from Carlito) I am trying to make up my mind about whether to join RAW or SMACKDOWN and he does not wanna’ give me a match? Dat’s seriously uncool, man.

JOSH MATTHEWS:
Carlito, does that mean that you’re going to be deciding to join RAW?

Carlito smiles a little and nods his head, he appears to be answering positively.

CARLITO:
For sure, RAW is in da’ lead right now. Ju’ people here on RAW seem to want Carlito, ju’ wanna see Carlito here. Michael Cole didn’t give me even a match on SMACKDOWN. Here on RAW, tonight, I face Ted DiBiase ... (Carlito pauses for the boos) ... DiBiase may not be cool but he could be the United States Champione in a few weeks time. If I can beat him tonight, ju’ may see that RAW could be my destination and I could get a shot at da’ title.

Carlito bites a chunk out of his apple before crunching it down and looking to the camera with a big smile on his face ...

CARLITO:
Now dat’ ... Dat’ would be cool.

Carlito nods his head to Matthews and leaves with the interviewer thanking him in the background as RAW returns to the ring where it is time for Carlito’s match ...

*** I COME FROM MONEY ***

*** TED DIBIASE ***

Smirking after he just listened to the comments of his opponent tonight, DiBiase heads out to the ring with the Million Dollar Title draped over his shoulder as JR and King remind us that he could be adding to his gold in the form of the US Championship very soon. JR reminds us that DiBiase defeated Daniel Bryan at the Rumble in a Ladder match and now has the right to face Justin Gabriel for the US Championship at a time of his choosing. King clears up some misunderstanding – he has to give Gabriel notice, it’s not like the Money in the Bank contract, before further discussion goes on about when it could happen. DiBiase poses in the ring as the lights dim and a bright green dollar sign is projected into the ring – reminiscent of the olden days in the WWF when his father, the Million Dollar Man, used to have dollar signs accompanying him to the ring. DiBiase hands the title over to the referee before turning to wait for his opponent ...

*** COOL ***

*** CARLITO ***

To another mild pop, out comes Carlito looking for his first singles win since his return to the WWE at the Royal Rumble eight days ago. Carlito is still carrying the apple that he took a bite out of before and he salutes the fans as he heads to the ring before grinning at them from the ropes. JR and King suggest that Carlito would be a great addition to the RAW roster and that SMACKDOWN General Manager Michael Cole must be mad to not feature him on the blue brand.

SINGLES MATCH
CARLITO vs. TED DIBIASE


Both men circle each other as the referee signals for the bell before tying up and trying to get the upper hand in the match early. There is nothing between them and, after a few moments, DiBiase changes tack and he shoves Carlito hard in the chest instead so that the Caribbean falls onto his backside instead. Shaking his head, Carlito gets back to his feet and squares up to DiBiase who has words for him over his claims that he will win tonight and insert himself into the US Championship picture down the line. Carlito is never lost for a reply and then DiBiase slaps Carlito hard before taking advantage of the shock caused to take the upper hand. DiBiase then goes on to dominate the early stages and gets a number of close 2 counts as he looks to put Carlito away quickly. However, a problem occurs for the US Championship Number 1 contender when he ducks early to hit a flapjack and Carlito counters with a swinging neckbreaker followed by a springboard moonsault that almost gets him the win.

As the match heads towards its conclusion, DiBiase regains the advantage with a spinebuster pin that gets him 2 followed by a running powerslam that also gets him a 2 count. Frustrated, DiBiase tries to go for the Dreamstreet finisher but Carlito counters with an armdrag and then as DiBiase looks for a clothesline, Carlito ducks, comes off the ropes and hits a springboard reverse elbow that takes his opponent down. Stalking DiBiase, it is clear that Carlito is setting for the Backstabber but DiBiase grabs the ropes instead and Carlito’s attempt fails ... DREAMSTREET! DIBIASE HITS DREAMSTREET TO A DAZED CARLITO!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
TED DIBIASE (4:38) via pinfall
Carlito’s first singles match since his return ends in defeat as a smug look of superiority spreads over the face of DiBiase, his good run of form continuing again tonight. As his money plays out around the arena, DiBiase signals that he will be the next US Champion as we see a shot of Justin Gabriel, ready for his match against Wade Barrett later tonight, who has been watching on. He pats his US Championship belt as he looks at the TV screen and shakes his head before walking away. As the camera returns to DiBiase, he smirks, his plan is working. But, as JR reminds us, when will he take his chance to face Gabriel for the gold?

The camera switches backstage once more and we see a limosine pulling into the parking lot that the crowd begin to boo – it is obvious who this must be. The door opens and out steps Michael Cole, the SMACKDOWN General Manager, as well as John Cena, SMACKDOWN’s Royal Rumble winner. Huge boos and jeers around the arena as Cena looks on smugly, he pats Michael Cole on the back and they begin to walk towards the backstage area – ten security guards appear and surround Cena and Cole as they make their way into the arena to ensure that there will be no trouble between Cena and a certain Mr. Orton tonight as we head into a commercial ...


*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with a replay of Cole and Cena’s arrival as JR and King hype up Cena’s big proposition for Randy Orton tonight, what could that proposition be? And where is Randy Orton tonight? Does he know that John Cena has arrived on RAW?

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** WADE BARRETT ***
(w/Nexus) | WWE Champion

Accompanied this time by the Nexus team, Barrett heads out looking confident with the WWE Championship belt strapped arounf his waist. King and JR replay the closing moments of the Number 1 contender match which opened the show where we see a surprise win for John Morrison as he caught Kurt Angle with a roll up before we see Morrison and Barrett looking at each other after the match. Barrett appears to not be worried in the slightest about his Elimination Chamber challenger as he stands in the centre of the ring with the Nexus stood behind him, backing him up as always, Skip Sheffield, Ezekiel Jackson, David Otunga and Heath Slater. JR and King say that tonight will be interesting as former Nexus member Justin Gabriel faces Barrett and there have been a few strange issues between Nexus and Gabriel lately ...

*** AFRICA RISING ***

*** JUSTIN GABRIEL ***
US Champion

The South African, growing in popularity recently, heads out to the ring and holds his US Championship belt up high for the WWE Universe to see. JR and King elaborate on the problems with Nexus and Gabriel and say that it seems as if Nexus is trying to protect Gabriel – at the Rumble for example – and are maybe trying to persuade him to come back to the group. However, Gabriel wants nothing to do with them and is focused on his US Championship where he is due to meet Ted DiBiase in the near future. Gabriel jumps into the ring after saluting the fans, it is time for a non-title champion vs. champion match. As Gabriel prepares, Nexus head over to him and Skip Sheffield offers him a handshake. Gabriel refuses and tells them to stay out of his business as Barrett looks on with a slight look of anger in his face over his team’s actions. The referee ushers Nexus out of the ring and they station themselves around the outside, ominously, as the bell rings ...

SINGLES MATCH
JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. WADE BARRETT (w/Nexus)


Nexus stay out of the contest and what a close one it turns out to be as Gabriel takes it to the WWE Champion big time as he looks for a huge breakout win that will elevate his status. Whatever Barrett does, it seems that Gabriel has an answer and with Nexus reluctant to cause any kind of distraction, it seems as if Barrett cannot get a foothold in the match. Gabriel’s speed and agility means that he can avoid the power moves of Barrett and this frustrates the WWE Champion. Consequently, he makes mistakes and this leads to a near fall when Barrett misses with a huge right hand and Gabriel takes advantage with a combination of kicks to take Barrett down to his knees, then a DDT that drives Barrett’s forehead into the mat. Barrett recovers at 2 but it seems Gabriel is on top of this one. As Barrett catches his breath in the corner, Gabriel rushes over and hits a step up enzuguri kick that staggers Barrett again, up the ropes goes the South African ... Hurricanrana! 1 ... 2 ... No! So close for Justin Gabriel! The match continues and the frustration builds for Barrett as Gabriel is out-thinking and out-working him until he suddenly catches him coming off the ropes with a huge side slam. A smug look spreads over his face as he finally grounds Gabriel before he steps back and hits a stiff kick to the side of the head as well for good measure. He sets up for Wastelands but Gabriel uses his elbows to wriggle clear and drop behind Barrett, roll up from Gabriel ... 1 ... 2 ... Oh! Nearly! Barrett rolls out of the ring, he needs time to compose himself but he isn’t going to get it – Gabriel leaps onto the top rope and springboards out of the ring into a moonsault ... Barrett reacts instinctively as he sees Gabriel coming towards him and he pulls Heath Slater into the way instead and he is taken out by the moonsault instead. Gabriel looks down at Slater with a look of confusion but then Barrett sticks him in the side of the head again with a big boot before savagely going on the attack with right hands.

The referee is counting the pair of them out – Gabriel is down and taking a battering now from the WWE Champion as Nexus look after Slater who was taken down with the moonsault a moment ago. Finally, Barrett heeds the referee’s words and he rolls Gabriel back into the ring as well as himself. Barrett looks out to his Nexus team and there is little bit of tension in the air, Slater looks less than impressed over what just happened, but Barrett waves it off and says it was part and parcel of being out there. As Gabriel slowly gets up, Barrett lifts him onto his shoulder and sets up ... WASTELANDS! BARRETT SLAMS GABRIEL DOWN TO THE MAT WITH WASTELANDS!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
WADE BARRETT (6:47) via pinfall
Barrett is delighted with his win and he smirks as he holds up his WWE Championship despite the heat and the jeers he is now getting from the WWE Universe. Nexus roll back into the ring and Barrett goes over to Heath Slater and he claps him on the back, Slater seems OK with him now, they stand together as Gabriel sneaks away from the ring holding the back of his head, disappointed to have lost. As he looks back at the ring, Otunga looks to him with a look of admiration on his face – what is going on with Nexus and Gabriel here? RAW switches gear now as we head to the interview area where Josh Mathews is stood waiting again ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time ... the Viper, RANDY ORTON!

Huge pop for the Viper as he comes into view, a look of quiet contemplation on his face as he prepares to hear what Cena has to say later tonight ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Randy, he’s here tonight. John Cena is in the arena, we’ve seen him arrive, he has a proposition for you. What are you planning to do tonight?

Orton nods his head as he thinks carefully about his answer ...

RANDY ORTON:
Josh, I’d be lying if I said I was calm and collected right now. For months, John Cena has ducked me, screwed me and cheated me. And tonight, he thinks he can just show up here on RAW and I’m going to stand there and listen to him? The voices in my head aren’t telling me to stand still and be a good boy, Josh, they’re telling me to RKO Cena over and over again. (Pop from the arena who are in agreement) They’re telling me to RKO him and then punt him in the skull so hard that he won’t make WrestleMania 28 never mind WrestleMania 27.

JOSH MATHEWS:
But Randy, with all due respect, you can’t do that, can you? You’ve been warned that you must not ...

Orton twitches, something annoying him about Matthews’ comment. He stares out into the space, a look of intensity in his eyes ...

RANDY ORTON:
I know what I’ve been warned to do, Josh. But do you know what? I think it’s funny that I’m reminded not to touch Cena but nothing seems to be happening when Cena interferes in my business. Have you noticed that? Cena is a coward. He hides behind Chip Butty, he hides behind Michael Cole, he hides behind rules that suit him and he has everything made for him here in WWE. He thinks that he is safe because he surrounds himself with security personnel tonight? He thinks that Chip Butty’s warnings to me make him safe? There’s an old saying, Cena, it goes like this: ‘Desperate men do desperate things’ and do you know what? I’m desperate. I’m desperate to make you pay. I’m desperate to make you suffer. I’m desperate to hit you with an RKO and I’m desperate to punt you in the skull. You’ve cheated me out of the WWE Championship, you’ve cheated me out of the WrestleMania main event and you’ve cheated me out of the Royal Rumble. I think it is time that you ...

Orton is distracted as the RAW General Manager Shawn Michaels comes into view. To describe the relationship between these two as frosty would be an understatement, Orton does not trust HBK at all. HBK looks apologetic but he has a message to deliver from Chip Butty ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Randy, I know that you’re desperate to get your hands on Cena but you need to listen to me. I have a message from Ch ...

RANDY ORTON:
You know what, Michaels? Maybe I don’t care? I don’t trust you, you were the one who made that match back at Survivor Series – Team Orton vs. Nexus. You made it for the WWE Championship, you tried to force me to work with Cena to defend my title. Like I’ve already said, I don’t care what you have to say and what warnings Chip Butty has about suspending me from WrestleMania 27. I’m not in the main event, I’m not in the title situation.

HBK sighs and holds up his hands.

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Trust me, Randy, nobody regrets the decision I made before the Survivor Series more than I do. If I’d known what Cena was planning to do ...

HBK shakes his head over the situation as Orton stares at him intensely ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
But this isn’t about WrestleMania 27, Randy. Chip Butty has told me to tell you that if you touch John Cena tonight ... (HBK sighs again, he clearly doesn’t agree with this) ... well, he says he is going to fire you.

Huge boos and jeers for this announcement as Orton stares at HBK, that makes the situation more grave for Orton than it was. Surely he won’t risk losing his entire career over this? The camera zooms in on a thoughtful looking Orton, his eyes flickering with anger, as he considers his actions. The camera switches to the locker room where Matt Striker is stood with the new Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship, John Morrison ...

MATT STRIKER:
John, congratulations, man! Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship!

Striker and Morrison slap hands, the interviewer is clearly pleased for one of the nicest guys in the business. Morrison removes his shades and speaks into the microphone ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Matt, I feel amazing, I’m going to be challenging for the WWE Championship in three weeks! This is my chance, you know? For the past year, I’ve been working my butt off to get an opportunity like this and now I have it. Wade Barrett, he can guarantee that at the Elimination Chamber, he is in for the fight of his life!

The smile on Morrison’s face seems fixed, he can’t stop smiling. However, the afore mentioned Wade Barrett walks into the locker room and the atmosphere changes a little. Morrison prepares for a fight but it is not needed as Barrett just wants a word. He looks at Morrison with a smirk and then holds the WWE Championship ...

WADE BARRETT:
You know what, John? I’m going to go ahead and congratulate you on your win. I’m looking forward to our match at the Elimination Chamber, do you know why? (Morrison moves a step closer to Barrett) It’s going to be a walk in the park. John, you’re just a high flying guy who is overachieving big time and at Elimination Chamber I will prove to the world that you are not worthy of being in the main event. You think you deserve to be the WWE Champion? You think that you deserve to defend this title at WrestleMania 27?

Morrison looks longingly at the WWE Championship with a fire in his eyes after Barrett’s comments.

JOHN MORRISON:
Do I think I deserve it? You better believe I do, Wade. I’ve worked my ass off for years to get to this point and I will not waste it. But I have a question for you – do you deserve to defend the WWE Championship at WrestleMania? (Barrett’s eyes flicker with anger) You see, I’ve been watching you, Wade, I’ve been watching your reign as WWE Champion and it’s pretty clear to me ... You don’t deserve to hold that title.

WADE BARRETT:
John, John, John, you’re speaking drivel now, you should know that ...

JOHN MORRISON:
I should know what, Wade? I know a few things. I know that if it wasn’t for John Cena stabbing Randy Orton in the back at Survivor Series, you would never have won it. I know that Justin Gabriel played a huge part in you winning the title as well. Wade, I know that whenever you’ve defended that title since – against Orton, Angle, Triple H – I know that you’ve relied on Nexus every time to rescue you and save your title. Now you tell me again, do you deserve to defend that title at WrestleMania?

Barrett is seething with rage but he has no answer right now, Morrison presses home his advantage ...

JOHN MORRISON:
I think, Wade, deep down inside, you know it too. At Elimination Chamber, why not prove it? At Elimination Chamber, Wade, face me one on one, no Nexus, no outside interference. Leave your muscle men behind, face me one on one and prove that you deserve to headline WrestleMania 27. Unless you know that you can’t Wade ...

Morrison looks into the WWE Champion’s eyes and he waits for an answer but Barrett stays silent and simply turns and walks out of the locker room. It seems that Morrison has just gotten the better of their first war of words as the build up to the Elimination Chamber starts to heat up here on RAW and we head into a commercial break with the news that next up will be the Elimination Chamber Qualifying match between two WWE legends – Chris Jericho and Edge.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with the camera focused on the ring as we get ready for the next match of the evening ...

*** METALINGUS ***

*** EDGE ***

As his pyro explodes behind him and the smoke begins to clear, Edge strides confidently to the ring with a smile on his face. JR and King remind us that despite the reluctance of HBK to give Edge this opportunity tonight, it was the WWE owner Chip Butty who made the match and gave Edge the chance to earn his spot in the Elimination Chamber. The Rated R Superstar stands on the ropes and raise his rock horns to the crowd who boo and jeer him, he still remains unpopular for his recent actions.

*** 5 ***
*** 4 ***
*** 3 ***
*** 2 ***
*** 1 ***

*** BREAK THE WALLS DOWN ***


*** CHRIS JERICHO ***

More explosions as Jericho makes his way out, another man with a murky past few months, but he is cheered by the crowd after his recent change in attitude. Back in his Y2J persona, Jericho is stood with his back to the audience and his arms out before he turns to walk down to the ring, slapping hands with the fans as he walks. Standing at the foot of the ramp, Jericho looks up and smirks at Edge before he reveals that he has a microphone and raises it to signal for his music to be faded out ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
Welcome to ... RAW ... IS ... JERICHO!

Huge pop for Jericho as he brings back one of his legendary catchphrases and he smirks as he stands there taking in the adulation of the fans. Meanwhile, Edge stands in the ring with a look of annoyance on his face as Y2J makes him wait ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
Lexington, Kentucky ... (Cheap pop for Y2J) ... let me tell you this, Y2J has been waiting for months for this moment ... And I know that all of you Jerichoholics have been waiting years for this moment ... tonight, Y2J will prove once more that I am the best in the world and I will qualify for the Elimination Chamber ...

Jericho steps up the ring steps as he continues to speak as he enters the ring opposite from Edge who is urging the referee to start the match.

CHRIS JERICHO:
You quieten down a minute, junior, let me finish first ... (The referee has to restrain Edge as Jericho smirks at him) ... You come out here with your rock horns but let me tell you something – there is only one guy here in the WWE who is the true ... ‘Ayatollah ... of Rock n’ Rolla’ ...

More cheers for Jericho as he tries to get under the skin of his opponent tonight ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
... and tonight, in front of all of these Jerichoholics in attendance here, I will show everybody that the Rated R Superstar is actually a Rated R ... jackass!

Edge snaps and he rushes over and attacks Jericho with a look of fury on his face. As the microphone crashes down to the mat, Edge starts to pound away furiously at the face of Y2J as the crowd rise to their feet in excitement. The referee urges Edge to leave it but he ignores him and continues to beat down Jericho before he pops him off to the ropes and hits a flapjack. With Y2J down and recovering in the corner, Edge pulls back and waits in the corner ... SPEAR! EDGE HITS THE SPEAR TO JERICHO! Edge hooks the leg but the referee is shaking his head and castigating Edge for his actions instead of counting – the match never got started here. Edge is furious and he tries to intimidate the referee over the lack of a 3 count. Angered, Edge drops out of the ring as the referee signals that the match never started to the WWE Universe ...

SINGLES MATCH
CHRIS JERICHO vs. EDGE


WINNER:
NO CONTEST
Edge is on the outside as Jericho recovers a little in the ring, Y2J’s words seem to have angered him. He grabs a steel chair and things step up in severity as he slides back into the ring looking to use it. The referee is trying to hold him back as he prepares to make use of the chair but Edge shoves the referee over and he topples out of the ring through the ropes. Edge holds the chair and waits for Jericho to spin round ... he swings but Jericho ducks under the chair ... CODEBREAKER! JERICHO HITS THE CODEBREAKER! Edge’s head snaps back and then Jericho picks up the chair as well, he is ready to use it on Edge now! As Jericho prepares to strike, there is a commotion as Sheamus comes hurtling towards the ring. The Celtic Warrior hits an axe handle to the back of the head of Jericho and he falls to the floor without using the chair ... However, here comes Daniel Bryan as well! Two Elimination Chamber qualifiers and two guys who should have been involved in a Qualifying match tonight as well. Bryan goes after Sheamus and all hell breaks loose now as all four men fight in the centre of the ring, Sheamus and Edge teaming against Jericho and Daniel Bryan before officials and security spill out into the ring to split the four men up. Finally, they manage to restore order but it is clear that there are many issues between them that may need to be resolved down the line – JR and King discuss what this means for one of the spots in the Chamber as we move forward towards the pay-per-view ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with the cameras in the backstage area where we see Kurt Angle stood in the locker room with the two mystery men from last week. Angle is speaking to them in hushed tones as the camera rolls and then in walks Matt Striker. From the look of Angle and the two guys with him, they were expecting him ...

MATT STRIKER:
Kurt, you wanted some time to speak to the WWE Universe?

Angle takes the microphone from Striker and then he shoves him aside, it appears Angle wants to address the WWE Universe himself without the distraction of the interviewer, Striker. He beckons to the two mystery men to stand either side of him and then he prepares to speak to the WWE Universe watching on the titantron and back at home on the TV ...

KURT ANGLE:
I’m sure you all saw these two men on RAW last week, I’ve been barraged with texts, emails and Tweets all week about their identity. Now, you all know that I am a passionate believer in the three I’s ... (Boos for the mention of the 3 I’s) ... Intensity. Integrity. Intelligence. I’m not sure how many of these morons in Lexington understand the importance of these principles but let me assure you that they remain an integral part of my life.

Angle smirks as the Lexington crowd chant ‘Angle sucks!’ before shaking his head and continuing.

KURT ANGLE:
You see, I was fed up of people taking cheap shots at me so I decided that I needed to protect myself. People like Triple H and Randy Orton will never again be able to take me down as I have these two men here to watch my back. They display all three of the principles that I believe in, they are committed to being part of ... ‘Team Angle Version 2’ ... and I know that they will help me to regain the WWE Championship.

Heat for the two men and Angle at the announcement of ‘Team Angle v2’ and Angle’s announcement that he plans to win the WWE Championship again. Angle beckons his two team-mates forward to showcase them ...

KURT ANGLE:
Allow me to introduce them. First up, this man here is truly perfection. He is the son of former WWE legend, Mr. Perfect, he is a man who I know I can count on. Ladies and Gentlemen, let me introduce to you ... JOE HENNIG!

Boos echo around the arena as Hennig looks on and smirks. He shakes his head at the reaction from the WWE Universe and laughs as Angle mutters something that the microphone does not pick up. Next up, the other guy steps up a little so he can be introduced ...

KURT ANGLE:
And this man here, this is ... PERCY WATSON. Both of these men are superstars of the future, two men who will go on to win World Championships. They will get chance to learn from myself, I will teach them the importance of integrity, intensity and intelligence.

Both Percy Watson and Joe Hennig nod their heads in agreement, they are clearly delighted to be working with and learning from the Olympic gold medal winner. Angle inclines his head to both men in turn and then faces the camera one more time to flash an arrogant grin as RAW rolls on and the camera switches back to the ring ...

*** TIME TO PLAY THE GAME ***

*** TRIPLE H ***

The crowd pop big time as the Game, the Cerebral Assassin himself, Triple H heads towards the ring where he is looking to secure himself a spot in the Elimination Chamber match and a shot at the WWE Championship come WrestleMania 27. However, as King and JR remind us, winning a place in the Chamber match is not going to be easy for Hunter – he faces a Gauntlet match against all four of Wade Barrett’s Nexus team in order to qualify. Hunter looks less than impressed as he heads towards the ring but he spits water in the air and salutes the crowd as usual before he turns towards the referee and tells him to get the first guy out here ...

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** SKIP SHEFFIELD ***

Out heads Skip Sheffield, one of the Nexus powerhouses as they look to find a way to defeat Triple H and keep him out of the RAW Elimination Chamber match and therefore out of the WrestleMania 27 WWE Championship picture. Looking fired up, as Nexus always seem to do, Skip gets into the ring and he has some words for Hunter as he mouths off at him and declares that he will never ever be the WWE Champion again. Triple H smirks at the audacity of the inexperienced Sheffield and simply bides his time until the referee rings the bell and the match begins ...

GAUNTLET MATCH – 1 OF 4
TRIPLE H vs. SKIP SHEFFIELD


A severe test for Triple H in the first part of the Gauntlet match as he goes up against the ‘Cornfed Collossus’ Skip Sheffield who brings his power game to challenge the Game. It appears that the Nexus’ thinking is that Skip will be able to wear down Triple H first off and this certainly proves the case as he weathers the early momentum from the Game to take control and it looks as if Hunter is struggling to get past the first match of the potential four in the Gauntlet match. Sheffield goes close to defeating Triple H when he hits a huge clothesline that almost knocks Hunter out of his boots but he fails with the pinfall as Hunter shows resilience to kick out at 2. Sheffield hits powerslams over and over as he looks to finish Hunter and get a big win for himself to propel him up the ladder. However, Triple H shows his abilities as he catches Skip with an Atomic Drop before a spinebuster follows to buy him some recovery time. As Skip groggily gets to his feet, Hunter kicks him in the gut and sets him up ... PEDIGREE! TRIPLE H HITS THE PEDIGREE!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
TRIPLE H (6:38) via pinfall
Triple H rolls away and celebrates his first victory of four needed by retreating to the corner and taking some deep breaths as he looks to recover from a hard fought first match. Skip Sheffield though is annoyed and he brings a steel chair into the ring and stalks Triple H. Hunter senses him, spins and ducks underneath the attempted chair shot to the skull before kicking him in the gut once again ... PEDIGREE! A SECOND PEDIGREE FOR SKIP SHEFFIELD! Triple H kicks Skip out of the ring and throws the chair over the top rope after him, Triple H is glad to see the back of him. However, he is only 25% of the way to victory here tonight. The Nexus theme sounds out again and signals the arrival of his second opponent ...

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** EZEKIEL JACKSON ***

As soon as Jackson rolls into the ring, Triple H goes on the attack and kicks him hard in the head. The referee signals for the bell and the second match is underway ...

GAUNTLET MATCH – 2 OF 4
TRIPLE H vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON


Triple H appears to be bang in the groove now and he pounds away on a stunned Jackson as he looks to put him away quickly and decisively. However, despite several big moves from the Game, he is unable to put Jackson away and then the Guyanan Goliath is able to counter with some well placed elbows before he hits the German Suplex to Triple H and holds on ... 1 ... 2 ... Kick out from the Game! Jackson tosses Triple H into the ropes and then goes for a swinging right hand but the Game ducks under it and then whips Jackson to the ropes instead ... Flapjack! Triple H hits the flapjack to Jackson and then waits for him to get back to his feet. Kick to the gut, here we go again, Triple H sets up ... BAM! TRIPLE H IS SMASHED HARD IN THE BACK BY SKIP SHEFFIELD WITH A STEEL CHAIR! The referee looks shocked but then signals for the bell, Triple H wins again with a disqualification ...

WINNER:
TRIPLE H (2:46) via disqualification
Triple H is face down on the mat and is clutching his back as Skip stands over him with a look of fury in his eyes. Ezekiel Jackson slowly stands up and he slaps hands with Skip before looking down on Triple H as well. As the crowd boo and jeer, Skip drags Triple H up to his feet and then feeds him to Jackson who lifts him onto his shoulders ... TORTURE RACK! JACKSON STRETCHES HUNTER IN THE TORTURE RACK! Triple H is in real pain here and the referee is demanding that the Nexus members stop the assault ... Jackson drops Triple H down and the Game is writhing on the mat as he tries to recover ...

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** DAVID OTUNGA ***

Here comes the third member of Nexus, this time it is the A-lister, David Otunga. As he steps up the ring steps, he looks impressed with the state of Triple H and applauds Big Zeke. However, this is not over as up gets Triple H slowly ... CLOTHESLINE FROM SKIP SHEFFIELD! Skip’s clothesline to Hunter almost smashes his jaw as he connects. With Triple H in a crumpled heap on the mat, Jackson and Sheffield step out of the ring and they leave Otunga to take their place for the next stage of the Gauntlet match. The referee doesn’t want to but he has no choice and he signals for the bell for the third part ...

GAUNTLET MATCH – 3 OF 4
TRIPLE H vs. DAVID OTUNGA


Otunga waits for the bell and then barrels into the weakened Triple H and knocks him flying into the turnbuckles as he attempts to get to his feet. Otunga smashes Hunter over and over with right forearms as he looks for a quick win to end this Gauntlet match but his suplexes fail – three times he hits big suplexes, three times Hunter refuses to lie down and kicks out at 2. Frustration is building for Otunga and then he gets caught with a spinebuster by Triple H and the crowd go wild as they see that Hunter is heading towards the fourth match. Otunga slows him down though with a rake of the eyes and Hunter, the effects of the match now catching up with him, is caught out as he walks straight into Otunga’s big finisher ... THE VERDICT THRUST SPINEBUSTER! OTUNGA HITS THE VERDICT! He hooks Triple H’s leg and makes the cover ... 1 ... 2 ... Triple H stuns the arena by kicking out again! The referee is checking on both guys when he is suddenly shoved over and through the ropes, the camera pans around and we see that Heath Slater, the man scheduled to be the fourth man to face Hunter, has just shoved the referee out of the ring. The crowd boo and jeer but it isn’t going to make any difference. Slater and Otunga begin to lay the boots to Triple H while the referee is out of the ring, the crowd are sending powerful heat raining down on the pair of them but Slater and Otunga don’t give a damn. Slater notices the referee is stirring and he quickly exits the ring and goes to revive the referee more. As the referee is helped back into the ring, Hunter groggily gets to his feet, he is really struggling ... OTUNGA HITS THE VERDICT AGAIN! ANOTHER THRUST SPINEBUSTER! Otunga hooks the leg again ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
DAVID OTUNGA (3:54) via pinfall
A stunned shock reverberates around the arena as Nexus manage to defeat Triple H in the main event and deny him his place in the Elimination Chamber match. The Nexus pair of Otunga and Slater exit quickly and they back away up the ramp where Sheffield and Jackson also come back out to congratulate them. As Triple H comes around and realises what has happened, he looks pissed off as he looks out at the celebrating Nexus foursome. Worse is to come as the WWE Champion Wade Barrett also heads out from backstage and he joins his team-mates on the ramp. Barrett looks straight out into the ring where Hunter is looking angered, he holds the WWE Championship up high and smirks at Triple H as he mocks him. Nexus watch on as Barrett continues to taunt Triple H and mock his failure to secure a spot in the Elimination Chamber tonight ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns from the final commercial of the night with the camera focused on the ring ready for John Cena’s proposition for Randy Orton to end the show tonight ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***

*** JOHN CENA ***
(w/Michael Cole) | 2011 Royal Rumble winner

Huge heat for Cena as he heads out towards the ring accompanied by the grinning SMACKDOWN General Manager, Michael Cole. Bearing a t-shirt that reads ‘BETTER THAN EVER’ and a ‘YOU CAN’T SEE ME’ logo on the back, Cena heads towards the ring looking confident over his safety. As he nears the ring, behind him we see ten security men following and they station themselves around the ring as Cena taunts the fans and declares that he will be the next World Heavyweight Champion. He grabs a microphone and then signals for his music to be faded as Cole also takes a microphone ...

JOHN CENA:
Wow, this is great. John Cena is back on Monday Night RAW!

The crowd here in Lexington respond with boos and jeers that must be hurting Cena’s ears, they’re so loud. Cena smirks though and makes an off the record comment to Michael Cole that makes the General Manager laugh. Cena continues on ...

JOHN CENA:
And it is a double treat for you all here tonight – the greatest General Manager in the history of the WWE is also here on RAW! Michael Cole!

Cole waves as Cena introduces him, what on earth has happened to Cena nowadays? He pats Cole on the shoulder as the crowd respond with nuclear heat here, they are not impressed and they let Cena know it. However, he is not interested and he mocks them by laughing ...

JOHN CENA:
You don’t like hearing the truth here in Kentucky do you? You know what, Michael, these type of fans are exactly the reason I despise the WWE Universe nowadays. They expect you to suck up to them, they expect you to lie and feed them a bunch of catchphrases just so that they can then expect you to shake their hands, sign their autograph books and pose for photos with their ugly children.

Cole laughs as Cena continues ...

JOHN CENA:
Here you go, Lexington ... Here is a catchphrase for you all ... YOU CAN’T SEE ME!

Cena waves his hand over his face as the WWE Universe boo and jeer him some more. Cole is laughing hard beside him and the two of them actually high five each other ...

JOHN CENA:
How about another one? In a couple of months time, after WrestleMania 27 is over, this is one you’re going to hear from me ... THE CHAMP ... IS ... HERE!

A loud ‘Cena sucks!’ chant begins as Cena laughs some more with Cole in the ring, the crowd here are sick of listening to Cena already ...

JOHN CENA:
And that is why I am here tonight. At WrestleMania 27, because I won the Royal Rumble, I have a World Championship match with whoever the World Champion is. I am ready to focus on this match now, I am sick to death of having to deal with Randy Orton who just will not go away ...

The crowd cheer at the mention of Orton and an ‘RKO! RKO!’ chant also begins ...

JOHN CENA:
You see, I would have thought that Orton would have given up by now. I took his WWE Championship from him, I left RAW and joined SMACKDOWN because I had continually proved that I was a better man than him, I beat him at Vengeance, I destroyed him at the Royal Rumble, I won the Royal Rumble when he was stupid enough to come back to the ring and I am now the Number 1 contender for the World Championship. Randy Orton should realise that he is not in my league, he should focus on facing some loser here on RAW that he might be able to beat ...

Cole laughs again at the jibe at RAW from the once revered Cena ...

JOHN CENA:
But, you know what, he just won’t give it up. He believes in his heart that he can beat me and he won’t go away until he does. So, tonight, I have a proposition for Orton, I have an announcement that I want to make right here, right now. So, Orton, why don’t you come out here, stand in the ring like a good boy and listen to what I have to say ...

*** VOICES ***

*** RANDY ORTON ***

Cena’s comments are interrupted as Orton takes the first chance to come out here and he storms out of the backstage area and walks down to the ring with a real purpose. Security step up ready and Cena beckons to four of them to get into the ring for added protection. As Orton steps through the ropes and into the ring, Cena stands behind four security men and he visibly tells Orton to stay back. Orton looks wild with rage, he wants to kill Cena and he is so close to him here. As Orton strains against the security men as they hold him back, we see Chip Butty running down the ramp as well, the WWE owner gets booed and jeered as well as he approaches the ring. Butty runs up the steps and he has a microphone ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Orton! Orton! Orton, you better listen to me right now. I meant what I told Shawn Michaels earlier today. If you touch Cena, I will fire you on the spot, right here, right now. You better back down right now.

A look of rage passes across Orton’s face once more and he twitches as he has to hold himself back and keep away from attacking Cena who looks at him, over the security men, with a smug look on his face.

MICHAEL COLE:
Yeah, Randy, back off right now!

Cole smirks at Orton as he takes a step back, he realises that his career in the WWE is worth more than one attack on John Cena right now. Much as he wants to rip Cena apart right now, Orton backs away to the ropes to hear Cena’s proposition ...

JOHN CENA:
That’s better, Randy. Keep calm, it isn’t so difficult is it?

Orton’s rage reappears and he again takes steps towards Cena as the security are forced to hold him back once more ... Cena is deliberately goading him here and Orton is struggling to stay in control.

JOHN CENA:
Orton, listen to me, I’ll keep this short and sweet. I’m sick of this. I’m sick of you wanting to prove something to me. In nine weeks time, I am challenging for the World Championship and it is time for me to put this all behind me. I don’t need all of this bad blood with you.

Orton mouths off at Cena and tells him that the bad blood between them will never disappear but Cena carries on ...

JOHN CENA:
So here is what I am proposing to you, Orton. We end this once and for all. Elimination Chamber, you’ve not got a match, I’ve not got a match, let us sort this out once and for all.

Orton is smiling at this idea, he is already nodding his head and accepting the challenge.

JOHN CENA:
There is one condition though, Orton. Are you listening to this Michael Cole? Mr. Butty?

Cena looks at both the authority figures in the ring and they nod their heads to affirm that they are listening ...

JOHN CENA:
The condition is, Orton, we go one on one at the Elimination Chamber ... but it’s the last time ever.

Orton looks quizzically at Cena, waiting for more information here ...

JOHN CENA:
One final time, no rematches, no more sneak attacks ... Just me, you, a referee and one match to a finish. No disqualification. No countouts. Orton vs. Cena to the end. What do you say?

Orton is smirking as if Christmas comes early, this is everything that he wanted and many people are clearly wondering why Cena is offering this.

JOHN CENA:
You get your match with me, your chance to prove yourself one more time. I get to beat you one more time and end this before I head to WrestleMania. Are we on, Orton? What do you say?

Orton walks across to the owner of the WWE, Chip Butty, grabs his microphone and snarls into it ...

RANDY ORTON:
You’re on, Cena. You bet that you’re on. And this time, for the final time, I will give you the beating that you deserve, you won’t even make it to ...

JOHN CENA:
Yeah, yeah, yeah, Orton. I knew you’d say that. So we’re confirmed then. Elimination Chamber. Randy Orton. John Cena. One match, one final match, to a finish, the end of the line. You got that, Michael? Mr. Butty?

Once again, Cena looks to Butty and Cole who nod their heads. It appears to be official now, Cena will face Orton at the Elimination Chamber and the crowd are loving it.

JOHN CENA:
That’s decided then, Orton. I’ll see you at Elimination Chamber.

Cena and Cole make their way towards the ropes as Orton watches on, his face showing that he desperately wants to attack Cena but he knows he needs to wait now. Cena steps halfway through the ropes and then pauses ...

JOHN CENA:
Oh, by the way, Orton. Good luck!

Orton stands his ground and doesn’t fly off the handle as Cena is expecting. Instead, Orton smirks and grimaces a little, he looks to Cena and mouths to Cena instead ... Suddenly, Orton pounces ... RKO! RKO ... TO MICHAEL COLE! Cena drops out of the ring and then turns to watch in astonishment as Orton kneels over the fallen SMACKDOWN General Manager with a maniacal grin on his face as he stares out to Cena. Butty is looking on with a look of shock on his face, this wasn’t expected but it isn’t something that Orton can be fired for! Cena watches on as Orton steps back and two security men try to stop him but he grabs them and flings them over the ropes and out of the ring. As Cole slowly recovers a little, it is clear that Orton has something huge in mind and he prepares in the corner waiting for his chance to strike ... The crowd are stood in excitement as they wait, here comes the Punt! Michael Cole is unaware of what is coming, he gets to his knees and then Orton takes strides across the ring ... Just as he is set to swing his right boot though, Cena drags his General Manager out of the ring instead, saving him at the last second and they back away up the ramp with Cena looking shocked and Cole looking beaten ... The cameras alternate between the worried Cena and the raging Orton in the ring as JR and King hype it up ... ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011: JOHN CENA WILL FACE RANDY ORTON!

*** END OF SHOW ***

***********************************


ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011
*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

GRUDGE MATCH
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff/Matt Hardy vs. Kane/Undertaker vs. ???

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
Daniel Bryan vs. Kurt Angle vs. The Miz vs. Sheamus vs. ??? vs. ???

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. John Morrison

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla vs. Michelle McCool (?)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***

*** END OF SHOW ***
 
#113 ·
February 1st, 2011: NXT



NXT
SEASON 3, EPISODE 6

WELLS FARGO ARENA, DES MOINES, IOWA
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 1ST, 2011


*** RESULTS & SUMMARY ***

For the first time in this season of NXT, two men would be in danger of heading out of the competition and seeing their dream of earning a WWE or a World Heavyweight Championship match ended. In addition to this, the first five men eliminated from NXT this season will see their WWE contracts terminated – incentive indeed for both men to do everything they could to survive. After last week’s NXT, the standings looked like this ...


The bottom two ranked individuals were scheduled to face off in the first NXT Elimination match but Kaval, positioned 8th, earned immunity from the first two eliminations in the NXT Battle Royal at the Rumble two weeks ago. Therefore, 6th ranked Dolph Ziggler and 7th ranked MVP would be the two men to face off this week on NXT.


MVP ELIMINATED!
In the NXT main event, it would be Ziggler and MVP battling for survival, both men desperate to earn the win and secure their future for a little while longer. MVP’s mentor JBL had words of advice for MVP – he told him that in order to survive, MVP needed to listen to him and follow his advice rather than pander to the WWE Universe. However, MVP remained conflicted throughout the night and when he failed to join Drew McIntyre and Vladimir Kozlov in assuring JBL that Kaval would be destroyed, MVP was told that he was on his own by his mentor. That proved to be pivotal in the end – when MVP hit the ‘Drive By’ kick to Ziggler and appeared to have the match won, Ziggler had Vickie Guerrero on hand to distract the referee and save her man. When Ziggler later hit the ‘Zig Zag’ to MVP, there was nobody to save MVP and his shoulders were counted to the mat for the 1, 2, 3, to confirm his elimination from NXT and the end of his time in the WWE.

WHO ATTACKED THE ROCK? FOLEY TO DEPUTISE!
The show began with CCTV footage showing blurred footage of Rock being attacked in the parking lot as NXT ended last week. With the attackers wearing masks and black clothing, it proved impossible to do anything other than speculate over their identities before it was announced that Rock is going to be missing from NXT indefinitely. JBL took to the ring and he scoffed at claims that he was involved as he informed the WWE Universe that he was in the ring at the time of the attack and that he had a cast iron alibi. However, he appeared to be less than worried over his fellow mentor’s health, preferring to point out the advantage his team would now have. As JBL pointed out that Team Rock were now missing their leader though, ‘Wreck’ hit and out came SMACKDOWN announcer and good friend of Rock, Mick Foley. Foley alleged that JBL must have something to do with the attack – JBL threatened legal action over the slanderous remarks – before going on to inform JBL that he would be replacing the Rock whilst he was absent. How will this effect Ziggler, Khali, Truth and Chavo’s chances of winning NXT now? Kaval certainly believes that having a good mentor plays an important role – he informed Team Rock that he envied them for having Foley on their sides.

KOZLOV ON A ROLL!
After their recent issues, things came to a head between former partners Santino Marella and NXT competitor Vladimir Kozlov as they went one on one in a Street Fight. Despite making the challenge last week to the Russian, Santino had no answer to Kozlov’s power moves and he succumbed to these and began to struggle. When JBL encouraged Kozlov to make use of the weaponry on tap, Santino took a real bludgeoning and, in the end, it was academic – Kozlov powerbombed Santino on the stage and covered him for the 3. With Kozlov, ranked second on NXT right now, looking formidable, Santino looked to be in real trouble and later in the evening we found out that Santino would be missing for a while due to the injuries sustained. It’s fair to say that, out of these two, Kozlov had proven that he is the dominant half of the team.

KAVAL’s LOSING STREAK CONTINUES!
Despite his win in the Battle Royal at the Rumble, Kaval remains ranked last in the NXT competition – he is yet to win a match on NXT programming. That run continues after he lost tonight to the Sinister Scotsman, Drew McIntyre – a Future Shock DDT ended Kaval’s hopes of victory as JBL made it clear that he was now favouring McIntyre over Kaval. Kaval’s frustration afterwards was clear as he pounded his fists on the mat and, whilst he is safe for one more elimination even after tonight’s elimination of MVP, if he doesn’t start winning soon, he could find himself in big trouble quickly. When will Kaval manage to end the losing streak and move up the NXT rankings?

MICHELLE McCOOL ONE STEP CLOSER TO THE DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP!
After last week’s announcement that the Elimination Chamber Divas Championship match between champion Maryse and former champion Layla would include Michelle McCool if she could go unbeaten until that night, McCool, with Kharma beside her of course, faced Eve Torres one on one in the first match of the evening. Despite a valiant effort from Eve, it seemed a matter of time before McCool would be able to get the upper hand and – thanks to a distraction from her bodyguard – she did just that. The ‘Wings of Love’ followed and McCool was able to get the 3-count that means she is now just two matches on NXT away from earning the Divas Championship match. Next week, McCool faces Alicia Fox as she looks to prove she deserves her chance.

*** RANKINGS AFTER WEEK 6 ***

** 1 **
Great Khali

** 2 **
Vladimir Kozlov

** 3 **
Chavo Guerrero

** 4 **
Drew McIntyre

** 5 **
R-Truth

** 6 **
Dolph Ziggler

** 7 **
Kaval

** ALREADY ELIMINATED **
MVP (Week 6)​
 
#114 ·
February 4th, 2011: SMACKDOWN



FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN LIVE
WELLS FARGO ARENA, DES MOINES, IOWA
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 4TH, 2011


*** DO YOU KNOW THE ENEMY? ***

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***



SMACKDOWN opens with the pyro as the camera spins around the arena, the WWE Universe going wild for the start of another exciting edition of SMACKDOWN here tonight as Todd Grisham and Mick Foley – still an announcer despite his new NXT duties standing in for The Rock – welcome us to the show ...

TODD GRISHAM:
Welcome to Friday night’s hottest show, we are live in Des Moines, Iowa, this is Friday Night SMACKDOWN – live! I’m Todd Grisham, my partner here is Mick Foley and what a night we have in store right here tonight, Mick?

MICK FOLEY:
This is what I got into the WWE for, Todd, we’ve got amazing matches – I cannot wait!

TODD GRISHAM:
The Tag Team Championships will be on the line tonight, Evan Bourne and Mark Henry will challenge the British Empire for the belts.

MICK FOLEY:
And I don’t know about you, Todd, but I’m already sick to death of hearing from William Regal and the Empire. Hopefully, tonight, Evan Bourne and Mark Henry can get the job done and take those titles away.

TODD GRISHAM:
With the Elimination Chamber just over two weeks from today, we’ll find out two of the remaining three participants in the SMACKDOWN Chamber match for the World Championship. We already know that World Champion CM Punk, Big Show and Kofi Kingston have qualified. The question is, first of all, which of the two Hardy Boys will win their place tonight?

MICK FOLEY:
Michael Cole thinks that he pulled a stroke last week when he tricked the Hardy Boys into thinking they’d both qualified for the Chamber when they defeated the Empire. However, with just one man to qualify, Matt and Jeff will go at it tonight – which one of the brothers will make it to the Chamber?

The camera switches to the side of the stage where a huge mound of earth stands with a grave dug out of the middle of it. The camera zooms in on the digger beside the mound which shows the bucket full of earth ready to be tipped into the grave ...

TODD GRISHAM:
And our main event tonight, Mick, what a match this will be for SMACKDOWN ...

MICK FOLEY:
Both of these guys are legends in this business, Todd, they will both be in the Hall of Fame but there is only one place for them in the Elimination Chamber!

The match card flashes up on screen ...


... before the camera focuses in on the gravestone ...

BURIED ALIVE
FEBRUARY 11, 2011
FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN

KANE
vs.
UNDERTAKER

TODD GRISHAM:
One place in the Elimination Chamber, two legends of the WWE, one match ... Buried Alive!

MICK FOLEY:
Kane and the Undertaker, Todd, that’s all you need to know. Add in the Buried Alive stipulation and the Elimination Chamber reward, oh my, oh my, oh my!

TODD GRISHAM:
There’s no doubt about it, what a night we’re going to have ...

????:
Can I have your attention, please?


MICHAEL COLE
FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN GENERAL MANAGER

The excitement in the arena turns quickly to heat as Michael Cole, grinning from ear to ear, strides out in his suit and tie. He walks towards the ring as he continues to address the WWE Universe ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Iowa, I know that listening to others is not your strong point so please just be quiet for a moment while I speak to the people watching on TV ...

Huge jeers and boos for the SMACKDOWN General Manager as he shakes his head in amusement. He steps up the stairs and he comes through the ropes where the boos intensify once again ...

MICHAEL COLE:
OK, OK, my name is Michael Cole ... (More jeers and boos from the crowd here in Des Moines) ... and I am the SMACKDOWN General Manager! (More boos from the crowd) Now, you can boo me all that you want, Iowa, the fact is that you’re all hyped up for the matches here tonight and there is one man that you should be thanking for them!

Cole spreads his arms and spins around, making it clear that that man is him, as the crowd continue to give him grief. Cole stands still again, chuckling, as he prepares to continue ...

MICHAEL COLE:
I mean, when has Shawn Michaels on RAW ever given you matches like I am tonight? When has Shawn Michaels given you a Tag Team Championship match lately? He has never even had the British Empire on his show!

Boos for the mention of the Empire who are clearly as unpopular in Des Moines as they are everywhere else!

MICHAEL COLE:
Yet I, Michael Cole, have made a Tag Team Championship match for tonight! The British Empire will face Mark Henry and Evan Bourne for the titles right here tonight!

Some cheers for the mention of this ...

MICHAEL COLE:
I’m also the man who had the foresight and vision to pit Matt and Jeff Hardy, two men who are about as interesting as dishwater normally, against each other tonight to fight for a place in the Elimination Chamber ...

Boos for this announcement, the crowd clearly believe that Matt and Jeff both earned their spot last week before Cole tricked them ...

MICHAEL COLE:
And look out over there! Look at that mound of earth over there ...

A buzz of excitement in the arena again as the camera focuses on the grave and the stone featured over near the stage ...

MICHAEL COLE:
You know who you have to thank for that? (Cole looks around once again as the crowd jeer) ME! ME! ME! ME! I’m the man who is making SMACKDOWN the greatest show ever seen in the WWE! The greatest General Manager that the WWE has ever seen.

Huge boos for the SMACKDOWN General Manager as he looks around for adulation that isn’t going to come his way here. He looks annoyed by this reception now ...

MICHAEL COLE:
You people need to learn some respect. There is no other city in the United States of America that treats me this way ...

Mick Foley laughs out loud on commentary, what a ridiculous statement that is from Cole. However, he genuinely seems to believe it and he is going to continue on further ...

MICHAEL COLE:
The rest of the WWE Universe know what an amazing job I am doing here on SMACKDOWN. I have already scheduled an amazing show but I’m sure that you’re all wondering ... (Cole backtracks a little to himself) Hang on, no! You’re incapable of wondering about anything. However, most people at home are probably wondering ... (More intense heat for Cole as he insults Iowa once more) ... who is going to be the final man in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match for the World Heavyweight Championship in two weeks time? You already know that it will be CM Punk defending against Big Show, Kofi Kingston, one of the Hardys and one of Kane or the Undertaker ... but who will the sixth man be?

Cole is making a big deal of this announcement, he clearly thinks it is a big one ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Well, I’ve been thinking about who deserves it. I’ve been thinking about who would have the best chance of winning the World Championship. And that man is ...

*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***

*** CHRISTIAN ***

The crowd go crazy as Christian comes out from backstage – many of them think that Cole has allowed him to enter the match. However, in the ring, Cole is waving his arms and questioning what Christian is doing out here. It begins to dawn on the crowd that Cole is not referring to Christian who is walking out to the ring with a smile on his face. As he climbs the steps, Cole demands that Christian returns to the back and lets him continue with his announcement. However, Christian is having none of it and he steps through the ropes and shoves Cole aside before saluting the fans ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Cut the music! I SAID CUT THE MUSIC!

Cole looks angered here, he clearly didn’t expect to see Christian come out here tonight. Christian turns to him as his music fades and faces him with a glint in his eyes ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Christian, what the hell are you doing here? I called you earlier, I told you, I demanded that you stay away from SMACKDOWN tonight. You had your chance last week, I know that all you will want to do tonight is moan and cry ... (Christian laughs at Cole as the crowd boo once again) ... You’re not welcome here in my ring, you’re not welcome on my show tonight.

More boos as Christian smirks ...

CHRISTIAN:
You know what, Cole? When I received that call, I was pissed off. Yeah, I was. And I nearly didn’t board the flight here to Iowa tonight, I was going to stay away. After all, what would have been the point of coming?

Christian looks imploringly at Cole who makes to speak ...

CHRISTIAN:
Shut up, Cole! It’s time to listen to me!

Cole cannot believe how Christian just spoke to him and looks on flabbergasted as the crowd cheer Christian’s words ...

CHRISTIAN:
What changed my mind then? That’s what you’re thinking, right? What could possibly have made me decide to disobey the orders of my boss, the great Michael Cole?

Christian uses quote marks for the word ‘great’ to show his saracasm before continuing ...

CHRISTIAN:
Well, you see, Cole, I got another phone call. A phone call from the Board of Directors. Not Chip Butty, the Board of Directors that run the company, the people who ensure that the company is run correctly. And do you know what they told me, Cole?

Cole looks worried at this point ...

CHRISTIAN:
They told me that my Elimination Chamber qualifying match from last week ... was not what they told you to do. They told me that they told you to give me a fair chance at qualifying – in other words, Cole ... (Christian moves closer to the SMACKDOWN General Manager) ... not a Handicap match against Cena and Punk.

MICHAEL COLE:
Now, wait a minute, I was never ...

Christian knocks the microphone out of Cole’s hand and it lands with a buzz that echoes through the arena. Cole is looking angrier by the second and Christian is on a roll here to the delight of the fans ...

CHRISTIAN:
I told you, Cole, to shut up and listen.

Huge cheers for Christian as he puts a shocked Cole in his place once again ...

CHRISTIAN:
They told me that I should come to Iowa tonight ... (Pop for the mention of the home state) ... They told me that I would get a fair chance, tonight, one on one, to qualify for the Elimination Chamber. So, Michael Cole, it is over to you. Who am I going to face tonight? Who will be my opponent?

Cole picks up the microphone with a look of rage in his eyes, Christian is going to pay for his actions, of that there is no doubt. He straightens himself up and steadies himself to speak ...

MICHAEL COLE:
You’re right, Christian. You get your one on one match and – if you win – you can qualify for the Elimination Chamber. And your opponent ... Your opponent will be ... (Cole ponders for a second) ... Your opponent, Christian, will be ...

Suddenly, Cole reaches out and slaps Christian hard across the face, stunning the Canadian, before he quickly throws himself through the ropes and up the ramp before Christian has chance to retaliate. Christian is shocked and looks angered by Cole’s lack of respect, he rages and almost chases after him but composes himself ...

MICHAEL COLE:
... Yeah, did you like that Christian? You’re finished with SMACKDOWN, Christian. I’ll give you your shot tonight but nobody disrespects me. I’m the General Manager, damnit! You can have your match tonight, it will be one on one, you will qualify for the Chamber if you win ...

Cheers for this announcement but Cole is continuing and it seems, from his tone, this isn’t going to be good news ...

MICHAEL COLE:
... But if you lose, Christian, you will be fired from SMACKDOWN!

A worried look now passes the face of Christian as the WWE Universe boo and Cole smirks ...

MICHAEL COLE:
And your opponent for this match, Christian, the one you so desperately wanted ...

Cole mocks thinking about it a little more as Christian, rubbing the side of his face, watches on ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Your opponent will be a man I can trust to get the job done. Tonight, Christian, you face ... JOHN CENA!

Cole laughs as Christian looks on, his look of worry slowly turning to a look of determination. As Cole leaves, Grisham and Foley hype up the news – Christian vs. John Cena tonight on SMACKDOWN, if Christian wins then he qualifies for the Chamber, if he loses then he is fired from SMACKDOWN! A shocking development as SMACKDOWN heads into the first commercial of the evening ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with a match card showing on the screen, it advertises the match tonight between Christian and John Cena as Foley and Grisham hype it up further and remind us of the stipulations announced by Cole moments ago ... The camera switches to the interview pit where Matt Striker is stood waiting ...

MATT STRIKER:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome ... THE HARDY BOYS!

Huge cheer in the arena as Matt and Jeff Hardy both walk into shot ready for action later tonight ...

MATT STRIKER:
Guys, later tonight, thanks to Michael Cole last week, you two go one on one against each other for a place in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber. Guys, I gotta’ ask you – how on earth are you going to face up to this match tonight?

Matt and Jeff look to each other for a moment, a look of respect for each other in their eyes, and then it is Matt Hardy who speaks first ...

MATT HARDY:
You know, Matt, last week when Cole put us in this match, our first reaction was to go and tell him to where to get off. He made us believe that we would both qualify if we won our match last week, then he tricked us and told us we’d get a shot at it by having to face each other this week. Now I know that Cole is a lying, cheating snake in the grass but this goes beyond low, Matt, he is facing two brothers to fight it out against each other. Now, that might be OK for Kane and the Undertaker but not for us.

JEFF HARDY:
Michael Cole is a no-good coward, we all know that. He has never liked the Hardy Boys and he has made it clear of late that Matt wouldn’t get a chance at the World Championship, he made Matt feel like quitting the WWE. But, you know, when I came back, I reminded Matt about why we got into this business in the first place. We didn’t get into this to win the WWE Championship or the World Championship. We got into this to simply be WWE wrestlers, together, living our dream. We’ve done that and we will continue to do that – regardless of whether we’re in the title picture or not.

MATT HARDY:
Jeff’s right, we’re both here to live our dream. If Michael Cole wants to make us fight for a chance to be in the Elimination Chamber, then he can, he is the General Manager. Tonight, we go out there, Matt Hardy vs. Jeff Hardy, we rock it Hardy style like nobody else can and, at the end of the match, one of us will go to the Chamber with the support of the other to try and win the World Heavyweight belt. And do you know what? I don’t care which of us goes after the belt. Tonight, all I care about is wrestling in front of the WWE Universe, one on one with my brother that I love, a chance to thrill the crowd and hear those cheers ...

Cheers come from the arena as Matt hypes them all up ...

MATT HARDY:
... and one of us will win, one of us will lose, but we both live our dream, we both compete in the WWE once again.

Matt hugs his brother before Jeff has the final word ...

JEFF HARDY:
It seems as if Michael Cole is hell bent on trying to force people here on SMACKDOWN out of the WWE. He’s trying to force out a good friend of ours in Christian, he’s messing with us as well. Tonight, the Hardy Boys show you, Cole, that nothing else matters apart from living our dream. But one of us will go to the Elimination Chamber, Cole, one of us will have a chance to win the World Championship. How will you feel then, Cole?

The camera switches back to the ring where it is time for the first match of the evening, a huge tag team match between some warring SMACKDOWN stars here tonight ...

*** REALEZA ***

*** ALBERTO DEL RIO ***
(w/Ricardo Rodriguez) | Intercontinental Champion

As Rodriguez introduces the Mexican aristocrat, the Intercontinental Champion slowly drives his Ferrari out from behind the curtain into the arena on the opposite side to normal – on the other side of the stage is the mound of earth for tonight’s Buried Alive contest. Del Rio gets out of the car and waves his white scarf around before joining Rodriguez on the ramp as the golden rain falls from the roof and he poses. As he nears the ring, Grisham recounts the problems that Del Rio has been having recently with his fellow Mexican, Rey Mysterio, before showing a clip from SMACKDOWN several months ago ...



As the camera returns to the ring, Del Rio’s music continues to play but he is stood astride the ropes with a huge grin on his face as he watches the footage of him injuring Rey Mysterio last September. Grisham and Foley discuss the impressive start that Del Rio has made to his career and the fact that he has only two losses to his name so far as well as the fact that he has won, and defended several times, the Intercontinental Championship.

*** CRANK IT UP ***

*** BIG SHOW ***

The intimidating presence of the Big Show heads out and he is given heat from the WWE Universe as well after his recent actions as regards to Kofi Kingston. As Show approaches the ring, he threatens a few fans and verbally trashes a few more before stomping up the steps and into the ring where he roars. Grisham throws out to some more footage from last week – this time, Big Show’s attack on Kofi Kingston backstage after both had qualified for the Elimination Chamber World Championship match ...

... we see a jovial Kofi Kingston walking backstage.

He slaps hands with Trent Barretta who is wandering around and congratulates him, he gives a hug to Eve Torres and he also greets some of the other backstage members before opening the door to enter the locker room. As the door opens though, Kofi walks right into a huge ham of a fist ... BOOM! KNOCKOUT PUNCH! Kofi is knocked cold immediately and WWE officials swarm around him as the man who delivered the punch appears ... It’s BIG SHOW!

Show stands over the fallen Kofi and he smiles widely as he looks down on him. The officials plead with him to leave Kofi alone and then Show drops to one knee as he looks down on Kofi ...

BIG SHOW:
Congratulations on your win tonight, Kofi. I’ll see you in the Elimination Chamber!

The crowd boo as Show lifts himself back up and steps away from Kingston as if nothing has happened, smiling as he walks away and the medics have to tend to the fallen Ghanaian as well now.
Again, on return to the ring, Big Show smiles as he watches the footage before he slaps hands with Alberto Del Rio who he is partnering tonight. Foley says that Big Show needs to get some momentum going as he heads into the Elimination Chamber and tries to win back the World Championship that he recently held for just five minutes before dropping it to CM Punk, the moment when Show’s attitude probably began to change.


*** BOOYAKA BOOYAKA! 619! ***

*** REY MYSTERIO ***

Huge cheers for the popular little Mexican as he comes out accompanied by exploding pyro before he heads for the ring via the younger children here in attendance tonight in Des Moines. Placing his forehead against the children’s in the crowd, Mysterio’s progress to the ring is slow but he finally gets to the bottom of the ramp and he stands looking up to Big Show and Alberto Del Rio, the man who injured him in September and tried to injure him again last week, whilst he waits for his partner tonight ...

*** S.O.S. ***

*** KOFI KINGSTON ***

Out comes the Ghanaian Kofi Kingston, the man who has made so much progress up the SMACKDOWN ladder in the recent few months and come so close to capturing his first major WWE title – Grisham and Foley speculate on whether or not he could surprise everybody in two weeks and win the World Championship from CM Punk inside the Chamber? Foley suggests that Kofi would be a deserving World Champion and would be a great guy to have going into the SMACKDOWN main event at WrestleMania 27. As Kofi bounds down the ramp, he greets his friend, Rey Mysterio, before the pair of them slide into the ring and salute the fans in the corners. Show and Del Rio look on as the referee ensures they wait in their corner before the four men get rid of all their entrance attire and prepare themselves for the match ...

TAG TEAM MATCH
ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) & BIG SHOW vs. KOFI KINGSTON & REY MYSTERIO


The match begins with some kidology between Del Rio and Mysterio as the ‘Master of the 619’ is desperate to start the match against his nemesis, Del Rio. However, Del Rio, who was going to start, decides to allow Big Show to start instead once he sees Mysterio waiting. Mysterio urges Del Rio to get in and start but he refuses and this frustrates Rey who wants to get hold of the Intercontinental Champion desperately. Tired of waiting, Show grabs Mysterio by the head and drags him across the ring, it looks like David vs. Goliath but, when Show looks to hit a forearm across Rey’s back, Mysterio ducks under his arm and hits the ropes, springboards and dropkicks Show to start the action. Show staggers as Mysterio goes back to trying to bait Del Rio into the ring and arguments begin. Del Rio swings a punch at Rey who ducks it and dropkicks Del Rio who falls to the floor where Rodriguez fusses over him. However, this gives Show chance and he barrels into Mysterio with a shoulder block that takes him down. As Rey gets to his feet, Show forces him to the corner and starts hitting heavy right hands to the stomach of the Mexican as he pounds at him. Mysterio looks as if he is winded with every punch to the gut and then show grabs him by the throat and lifts him up high into a Military Press before throwing him head first out over the top rope to the outside. Mysterio lands with a thud and Kofi heads around towards his partner showing concern as SMACKDOWN heads into a commercial break with Grisham speculating about whether or not Rey will be able to get back into the match ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with Big Show still in charge as he looks to put Mysterio away in the ring. A replay is shown of Show grabbing Kofi by surprise as he checked on Rey during the commercial break and throwing him head first into the barricades around the ring and when the camera returns we see Kofi struggling to get back into position for a tag from Mysterio. As Rey attempts to make the tag, Show grabs him and locks him into a Bearhug that drives the wind out of Rey once more, Show looks to lock it on as much as he can and try to force the submission from Mysterio who is weakening quickly here. As Mysterio loses the fight, Show wrenches the Bearhug in further and you can see Mysterio starting to struggle here. Kofi, now standing on the apron, tries to get the crowd involved and he leads a clap that gives Rey the impetus to try and force himself out of the Bearhug once more. However, Show is too strong and he now takes Rey down to the apron and continues to wrench around his gut. With Mysterio now spending up to two minutes in this hold, the referee is now forced to check on him. Mysterio looks beaten but Show has made a mistake taking it down to the mat as this now allows Rey, from a sitting position, to kick over his own head and he connects with Show several times to force a break. Both men get to their feet, Mysterio as quick as he can, he ducks a clothesline from Show, springboards off the ropes and goes for a Crossbody but Show catches him, readjusts and then drops Mysterio with a Sidewalk Slam that deflates the crowd once more.

** 1 **
** 2 **
** REY BARELY KICKS OUT! **

Show drags Rey up and he sets him up in an inverted headlock before dropping his elbow across the little man’s chest again driving the wind out of him. Kofi again tries to get the fans to rally around Rey but this doesn’t look good. Show now locks in a Camel Clutch and Rey screams in pain, this is turning into an absolute demolition job here. Show is taunting Kofi as he frustratingly waits for a tag that doesn’t seem to be coming before releasing the clutch and tossing Rey away to the corner where Del Rio is looking on delighted. Show again taunts Kofi before running over towards Rey, Springboard Splash in the corner and Rey is splatted on the canvas. Surely this is over now? Show stands up grinning and pulls down his strap to signal that it is time for this to end. He clenches up his fist and roars but then Del Rio urges him to make the tag. Show questions this but relents and tags in the Intercontinental Champion who stands over his rival and mocks him and the WWE Universe as he smiles. However, this proves to be a mistake as it gives Mysterio time to make a desperate move, he crawls through Del Rio’s legs and springboards off the ropes, Hurricanrana from Mysterio to Del Rio! Show is holding his head in his hands in their corner and demands to be tagged back in which Del Rio does with a look of embarrassment on his face. However, the time is enough, Rey dives across the ring ... and tags in Kofi! Fired up and ready to go, Kofi leaps onto the top rope and springboards towards the onrushing Show with a Missile Dropkick to the head that delights the fans. Show is staggered to the corner and Kofi rushes over, leaps up onto his shoulders and starts to pound away at Show’s bald head, over and over, as the crowd roar their approval. Show recovers a little and shoves Kofi off his shoulders to the mat but Kofi is like a cat and bounces up quickly, he springboards off the ropes and catches Show’s head ... DDT! Show is driven down head first into the mat as Kofi makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** BIG SHOW POWERS OUT! **

Kofi runs at Show once more but this time Show is ready and hits a boot to the face of Kingston before tagging in Del Rio once more. Del Rio hits a Roundhouse kick to the shoulder and upper arm of Kofi before dropping it down over the top rope to aggravate the pain a little more. Kofi’s arm is hurt a little by this and more so when Del Rio hits a double knee to the arm moments later as he looks to set up his finishing move. Kingston is clutching his arm but he is able to counter the forthcoming Cross Arm Breaker attempt from Del Rio as he rolls him up into a pinfall ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** DEL RIO ROLLS OUT! **

Del Rio hits a running knee to the face of Kofi and then stands over him with a look of annoyance. As Kofi gets up groggily, Del Rio again looks to set up the Rolling Cross Arm Breaker but this occurs too close to the ropes and Kofi, despite being locked into the hold, grabs the rope immediately. The referee demands the release of Kofi and Del Rio uses up the 5 count before releasing and kicking Kofi under the bottom rope. Del Rio stalks after him and rams his arm down on the steel steps as he looks to continue to weaken Kofi. As Kofi rolls back in, Del Rio follows and sneaks behind him, locks his hands around his waist and goes for a German Suplex. However, Kofi able to escape and he turns on a surprised Del Rio, Frankensteiner! Kofi quickly springboards off the ropes and leaps high in the air into a Diving Crossbody that takes Del Rio down to the mat. Kofi turns towards his corner for the tag but Rey is still struggling and the delay gives Del Rio chance to drag Kofi away. Again, Del Rio goes for the Cross Arm Breaker but Kofi refuses to allow it and he spins out of it and then hits another dropkick to the chest of the Mexican. With Del Rio down, Kofi comes off the ropes ... Boom Drop! Del Rio is looking for a tag now but Kofi hooks the leg and makes the pinfall ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** DEL RIO KICKS OUT! **

Looking for some space, Del Rio exits the ring but this proves to be another mistake – Kofi hits the ropes and goes towards him with a huge Suicide Dive that connects and drives Del Rio into the barricades as the crowd cheer. Kofi drags the Intercontinental Champion up and rolls him into the ring before following. However, Show drags Kofi back out of the ring by the legs and pulls back his arm for the WMD punch ... Kofi ducks it though, Show wheels around and here comes Mysterio across the ring, he somersaults over the top rope and collides with the giant to take him down to the delight of the fans. Into the ring goes Kingston, he waits and waits ... TROUBLE IN PARADISE! KOFI CONNECTS WITH THE TROUBLE IN PARADISE KICK! Del Rio lands on the ropes, head exposed, set up perfectly ... Kofi realises this and he tags in Mysterio who milks the crowd reaction before hitting the ropes, here he goes looking for his big move, the 619 coming up ... Ricardo Rodriguez jumps up to protect Del Rio ... 619 FROM MYSTERIO TO RODRIGUEZ INSTEAD! Ricardo falls down after taking the 619 for his employer who realises what has happened and exits the ring before he can be caught once more. As he goes through the ropes, he tags in Big Show who is just getting back onto the apron and then he heads up the ramp with a look of resignation on his face. As the crowd boo, it becomes clear that Alberto Del Rio is leaving the match and a groggy Big Show, back inside the ring, now realises this. He tries to call Alberto back but his plea doesn’t work and Big Show looks annoyed with his partner. However, the delay is costly – Mysterio dropkicks Show in the lower back, Show falls down over the middle rope, here we go ... 619! MYSTERIO HITS THE 619 TO BIG SHOW! The crowd go wild as Show falls backwards into the ring, Mysterio leaps onto the top rope and springboards off towards Show as he gets up ... SPRINGBOARD LEG DROP! Show’s face is planted into the mat as Mysterio tags in Kofi once more. Kingston leaps into the ring and waits ... and waits ... TROUBLE IN PARADISE CONNECTS! SHOW IS STRUCK BY KOFI’S BOOT! Kofi makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
KOFI KINGSTON & REY MYSTERIO (9:32) via pinfall
The crowd erupt with delight as the referee counts 3 and Kofi and Rey embrace after a hard fought victory there. Show rolls out of the ring as Kofi mocks him and waves whilst Alberto Del Rio, joined by a groggy looking Ricardo Rodriguez, watches on from the stage with a look of anger in his eyes. Mysterio looks out towards him and dares him to come back to the ring and fight, Mysterio wants revenge on Del Rio more than anything it seems. However, Del Rio shakes his head and walks out of the arena leaving Mysterio and Kofi to celebrate their victory – a big victory as we edge closer and closer towards Elimination Chamber, particularly for Kofi Kingston. Grisham and Foley hype up the importance of the win to Kofi as he prepares to face Show in the Chamber and say that the momentum is with the Ghanaian as he approaches the World Championship opportunity in a couple of weeks time. The camera switches backstage once more and again we see Matt Striker as he is ready to interview somebody in the interview pit ...

MATT STRIKER:
Ladies and Gentlemen, my guest at this time ... World Heavyweight Champion ... CM PUNK!

A mixed reaction for Punk as he comes into shot, the World Heavyweight Championship draped over his shoulders. Punk looks conflicted still as he waits for the question ...

MATT STRIKER:
Punk, last week, we saw you in a dilemma about whether or not to pin Christian, a man who you say has earned your respect, on Michael Cole’s orders. Your thoughts?

Punk adjusts the title belt and considers his response for a minute ...

CM PUNK:
You’ve only got to look around the SMACKDOWN locker room at the moment to see people who are having a tough time of it thanks to Michael Cole – Christian, the Hardys, Kofi. They’re all struggling because Michael Cole won’t give them a break, because Michael Cole won’t treat them with respect. Like I said last week, I’m not out here to win popularity contests, I don’t care whether the WWE Universe cheer for me or boo me, I don’t care whether my opponents are bad guys or good guys, all I care about is CM Punk and this right here ... (Punk raises the title aloft) – the World Heavyweight Championship. When I won this two months ago, I vowed that I would fight anybody and I vowed that I would hold this title for an awful long time. When somebody is on a roll and deserves a shot, I wanna’ face them and see what they’re made of. When I faced Christian at the Royal Rumble, I found out what a tough guy he is to beat and I only won that match because he passed out from the Anaconda Vice.

Punk shakes his head a little and considers his words carefully again.

CM PUNK:
There are a lot of people around here in the WWE that don’t like me, hell, there are a lot of people here in the WWE that I don’t like either. They don’t understand me, they don’t agree with my choices, that’s fine, I don’t expect them to. I do expect that people treat others with the respect that they deserve. At the Rumble, Christian earned my respect whereas Michael Cole didn’t. Michael Cole thought that I was just another guy he could mould to do his bidding, just like John Cena. Michael Cole was wrong ... until last week.

Punk looks troubled here ...

CM PUNK:
Last week, the SMACKDOWN G.M. found a way to force me to do his bidding for him. That match last week was unfair, it was a load of crap but Cole ordered the match and there was nothing I could do. I sure as hell wouldn’t wanna’ retain my title because of Michael Cole but I sure as hell don’t wanna’ lose my title because of Michael Cole either. So last week, whether I liked it or not, I had to hit the GTS to Christian, I had to make the pinfall on him and I had to end his dream of competing at the Elimination Chamber for this title.

Punk looks directly at the camera now.

CM PUNK:
Very clever, Michael Cole. Very clever indeed. But let me tell you something, Mr. General Manager. I’m no sheep, I don’t go blindly along with things because they’re easy. I’ve had time to reflect on what I did last week and I’ve come to the conclusion that I could have done things differently. Michael Cole, you believe your own hype, you think you’re the greatest General Manager of all time because of what? Because John Cena won the Rumble? Because you made a match people wanna’ see? That doesn’t make you great, Cole, that makes you somebody who is doing his job. I don’t agree with how you’re doing it but that’s what you’re doing. So, from now on, I will do my job. I can be just as clever as you can, Cole, more so in fact, I know how I can out-smart you. I won’t be taking the easy options no more – because I’m the World Champion. I’m just doing my job.

Punk turns to walk away but he stops short – the camera pulls back to reveal Christian stood facing him. The World Champion nods his head slightly to Christian who steps up to the microphone himself as Striker holds it ...

CHRISTIAN:
Just for the record, Punk, I don’t blame you for what you did last week. Like you say, you’ve gotta’ do what you’ve gotta’ do. I appreciate your words but let me tell you this. Tonight, I face Cena one on one and I will get the win I need to head to the Elimination Chamber. And when I get there, I am going to beat you and take your World Championship. I just thought you’d better know that.

Punk and Christian lock eyes but Christian then offers his hand out to Punk. Punk hesitates for a moment and then shakes it – respect, indeed.

CM PUNK:
You believe that if you want to, Christian. I hope you do beat Cena tonight, I wanna’ prove to the world that I CAN beat you. I got a feeling you will win tonight ... Good luck.

Punk turns and walks away as the camera focuses on Christian as he watches the World Champion as he leaves before SMACKDOWN heads into another commercial break ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns from the commercial with Tony Chimel in the ring, he announces that the next match is an Elimination Chamber qualifying match for an opportunity to earn a spot in the World Championship match. There are loud cheers around the Wells Fargo Arena as the WWE Universe prepare for one of the big matches of the night that Michael Cole announced earlier ...

*** LIVE FOR THE MOMENT ***

*** MATT HARDY ***

The first of the two Hardy brothers heads out and it is the older brother, Matt. The crowd give him a huge cheer as he comes out and salutes the fans with his V1 symbol before he heads for the ring looking pumped up and determined. As he approaches the ring, Hardy slaps hands with members of the WWE Universe before he slides under the bottom rope and jumps up in the corner to salute the fans some more. Grisham and Foley discuss the heartache that Matt went through during his time on SMACKDOWN over the past few months when he was chasing the World Championship and getting further and further away. Foley praises Matt’s brother Jeff for making him realise that this wasn’t just about the World Championship and says that Matt now seems happy again as he prepares for this match. The arena goes quiet before the arrival of Matt’s opponent begins ...

*** NO MORE WORDS ***

*** JEFF HARDY ***

Here comes the younger Hardy, the controversial Jeff Hardy. Jeff dances around on the stage as the lights flash purple and white before he makes his way towards the ring at a run. He slides into the ring as well and jumps straight up on the ropes and salutes the fans with a Hardy pose before jumping down and facing his brother – Foley says that Jeff has had the top championships in the WWE and knows how it feels – unlike his brother. Grisham suggests that Jeff has the know-how more than Matt and that he could be the bigger danger to CM Punk’s title at Elimination Chamber ... The two brothers touch hands to show their friendship and respect before the referee rings the bell and this match can get underway ...

SINGLES MATCH – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFIER
JEFF HARDY vs. MATT HARDY


The two brothers circle each other in the early going as they look tentative about fighting each other. Eventually, the pair of them lock up in a high elbow tie up and they grapple, both trying to get the upper hand, but it comes to nothing and they end up releasing each other. This follows twice more with no results before Matt suddenly rounds Jeff and looks to surprise him with a leg takedown; however, Jeff counters this and rolls it through into a surprise early roll up ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** MATT SPRINGS OUT! **

As the pair of them get back up, Jeff winks at Matt and the pair of them resume their early exchanges as they look to get on top. Matt finally does manage to take Jeff down but this just leads to a series of pinning predicaments with both men reversing them easily until the pair of them release and get to their feet. Jeff takes the chance to hit a low drop kick to the chest of Matt, the first real move of any note, and then he goes on the attack with Matt a little shocked from it. Jeff hits a snap suplex to Matt and then comes off the ropes to hit a double leg drop over the chest of his brother before he makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** MATT KICKS OUT! **

As the pair of them get up, Matt is quicker and he takes his chance to hit a quick DDT to Jeff before he considers his next move. Matt speeds off into the ropes and comes off them just in time to catch Jeff with a running forearm before he drops down to make a cover of his own, he hooks the leg of his brother ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** JEFF KICKS OUT! **

Matt locks the leg scissors in around the waist of Jeff and he twists to keep Jeff down on the mat in the hold. The referee is asking Jeff if he wants to give up but there is no chance of that and Jeff, still fresh, manages to prise Matt’s legs away from his waist and then shoves him away before jumping up and coming off the ropes looking for another drop kick to Matt who is down low. However, Matt manages to avoid the contact and Jeff ends up crashing down to the mat near the ropes. As he looks to get up, he uses the ropes to pull himself up and Matt, noticing a chance, hits a high knee to back of his brother that sends him toppling between the ropes and down to the outside with a thud. The referee tells Matt to step back and he begins the countout on Jeff who gets back to his feet on the outside and looks up to Matt with his arms spread as if he is asking Matt why he did that. Matt looks amazed that Jeff is making an issue of this and stands his ground as a more fired up Jeff returns to the ring and he shoves Matt hard in the chest. Matt looks a little shocked but he shoves Jeff back hard in the chest and actually succeeds in sending Jeff down to one knee. The crowd become more excited now as the two brothers are starting to feel it more and they stand close to each other whilst talking a little trash. Jeff again shoves Matt who responds with a right hand and the match is now finally going to get going! The two brothers trade blows and it gets a little messy but the increase in aggression has made this match far more entertaining now. It is Matt who gets the upper hand from the flurry of rights as he manages to force Jeff back and the whips him to the corner of the ring. He rushes over for a clothesline but Jeff ducks it and Matt collides with the buckles before Jeff hits a dropkick that sends Matt tumbling through the ropes as well. The crowd are on their feet now as they try to pick which of their favourites they will cheer for here, Matt staggers up on the outside as Jeff comes balancing on the top of the barricades around the corner of the ring ... Clothesline from Jeff to his brother Matt who goes down hard on the outside now. The referee comes out and orders Jeff to get back into the ring whilst Matt recovers ...

When both men return to the ring, you can see that both now desperately want to win this one – not for the right to challenge for the title but because they want to get one over on the other. The match swings both ways as Matt and Jeff both have periods where they take over control of the contest but then a counter or a reversal follows and the control changes once more. The match is even until Jeff hits the first big move and counters Matt’s whip to the corner with the Whisper in the Wind that sends Matt down hard to the mat. Jeff makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** MATT KICKS OUT! **

Jeff grabs Matt by the hair now and drags him up, the brotherly love between these two is out of the window, before he strikes him with right forearms to the face in the corner. This time, Jeff whips Matt into the corner before following up with an attempted clothesline – Matt avoids it and Jeff eats the buckles, Matt hits a clothesline on Jeff in the corner instead before hitting a big time Bulldog that drives Jeff down into the canvas. Matt is rallying here and he is clearly feeling it – fired up, ready to explode – as he waits for Jeff to get to his feet. Here he comes ... SIDE EFFECT! MATT HITS JEFF WITH THE SIDE EFFECT! It’s over now! Matt hooks the leg ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** NOOOO! JEFF KICKS OUT! **

Matt holds his head in his hands as he kneels at the side of his brother and he wonders about what he is going to need to do to defeat him. Jeff rolls away, wincing a little in pain, as Matt gets to his feet and waits again ... Is Matt preparing for the Twist of Fate? Jeff gets to a knee as Matt continues to stalk him and goes for it, he locks Jeff in a headlock and signals for the Twist of Fate but Jeff shoves him away at the last moment instead ... Springboard clothesline from Jeff Hardy! Matt lands sat in the corner of the ring and Jeff sees his chance here. He uses the ropes for momentum and crashes his feet into the chest of Matt as he is sat in the corner causing his brother to cry out in anguish and roll out of the corner clutching his shoulder. Jeff spots his chance now and he quickly ascends the ropes and stands looking down on Matt who is rolling on the mat ... SWANTON BOMB! MATT ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY AT THE LAST SECOND! Jeff collides hard with the mat and he has hurt himself there as he clutches his back and rolls in pain but what resourcefulness from Matt as he avoids the finishing move of his younger sibling. Matt steps back and waits for Jeff to get up ... TWIST OF FATE! MATT HARDY HITS THE TWIST OF FATE! Matt makes the cover and hooks the leg of Jeff ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

The crowd erupt but then the referee notices something ... No! Jeff had his foot on the rope! The referee waves off the pinfall and Matt looks on in disbelief! He can’t believe it and complains to the referee as Grisham and Foley introduce a replay of it on TV – yes, it’s right, Jeff got his foot on the bottom rope at 2 and a half. Matt cannot believe this but he is forced to accept that the match isn’t over as he surveys the situation. Jeff is pulling himself up in the corner and the look of anger on Matt’s face is worrying as he heads over towards him. As Jeff gets to his feet in the corner, Matt stands up on the ropes and mounts him before delivering right hands to the face of Jeff. Some of the crowd are booing here but Jeff responds by grabbing Matt’s legs and trying to carry him from the corner. Matt grabs the turnbuckle and holds himself there, he clearly prefers being in the ascendency here and doesn’t want to be slammed down by Jeff. As Jeff tries to drag Matt and himself across the ring, Matt stubbornly holds onto the top turnbuckle until ... it suddenly rips off and both Hardys fall messily to the mat. Matt angrily throws the turnbuckle pad down and goes to strike Matt again, Jeff counters with a Mule Kick that staggers Matt backwards ... BAM! Matt’s head collides with the exposed steel turnbuckle, totally accidental on Jeff’s part who was unaware the pad had even been removed. As Jeff recovers, Matt slumps in the corner clutching the back of his head in pain from hitting the steel. As Jeff comes around, still none the wiser about Matt’s ‘headache’ he prepares to fly across the ring. As Matt gets groggily to his feet in the corner, Jeff hits a flying clothesline that staggers Matt some more as he comes out of the corner. Jeff positions his head under Matt’s jaw ... Jawbreaker! Matt slumps to the mat in pain here, his jaw and the back of his head troubling him. With Matt grounded, Jeff seizes his chance and quickly goes to the top rope once more ... SWANTON BOMB! JEFF HITS THE SWANTON BOMB! Is it over now? Jeff makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
JEFF HARDY (8:48) via pinfall
Controversy here as Jeff celebrates the win in the corner with his fans cheering for him – Foley calls it immediately and says that Matt’s foot was on the ropes as well. Replays show this is true as Matt complains to the referee but the referee refuses to change his mind and he holds up Jeff’s hand to signal that he is the winner and he is the man heading for Elimination Chamber. Jeff looks at his older brother with a smile and offers a handshake that Matt, feeling bitter right now, shakes his head to and he exits the ring instead. Matt continues to berate the official and begs him to look at a replay but he isn’t going to – the result stands. Jeff salutes the fans in the ring as Foley and Grisham discuss his chances in the World Championship match in two weeks time – can Jeff Hardy win the World Championship? Just as Foley is suggesting why Jeff, seen celebrating on screen, is a danger ... BAM! STEEL CHAIR SHOT TO THE BACK OF JEFF HARDY!

The camera zooms out and reveals Matt Hardy is back in the ring and clutching the steel chair that just connected with his brother with a look of complete conflicting emotion on his face. As he stands looking down on Jeff, Matt throws the chair down and drops to his knees beside him. Matt is now checking on his brother! What is going on here with Matt? Matt looks appalled at what he has just done but then stands up with his head in his hands. Matt’s face changes back to anger and he looks down on his brother again with a look of justification. His brain twisted here, Matt decides to exit the ring and leave and he heads up the ramp shaking his head to himself. At the top of the ramp, Matt looks back and peers into the ring at his brother who is clutching his back in pain ... What was Matt Hardy thinking there?


*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with a replay of the ending of the match before the break as Jeff Hardy controversially defeated his brother Matt and claimed one of the remaining spots in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match for the World Championship in two weeks time. We then see the chair shot from Matt and the conflicted emotion he showed afterwards – anger at Jeff and the referee over the result, remorse for Jeff as he realised what he’d done to his little brother. As the replay ends, Jeff is shown being helped backstage by the doctors before the camera switches to Matt in the locker room who is hastily packing his bag – he looks as if he is leaving SMACKDOWN for the night. As Matt turns to leave though, Michael Cole, the SMACKDOWN General Manager walks in. He is smiling and he holds his hand up to tell Matt to stop.

MICHAEL COLE:
Well, well, well, Matt. Who would have thought you were capable of that?

Hardy looks unimpressed with Cole’s words and he shakes his head at the General Manager rather than dignify him with a response. Cole laughs at him.

MICHAEL COLE:
Let’s be honest here, Matt, you and I don’t get on. I appreciate that. You don’t like me, I don’t particularly like you. However ...

Matt looks at Cole threateningly and causes him to pause ...

MICHAEL COLE:
... However, Matt, I was impressed with what I just saw. For the last five years, you have been treading water here in the WWE and doing nothing. You’ve been missing that fire in your belly that you need to be a success. Tonight, just then, I saw it.

MATT HARDY:
That out there, Cole, was a mistake ...

MICHAEL COLE:
That out there, Matt, was a true way forward for you. That’s a Matt Hardy that I can get behind. That’s a Matt Hardy that impresses me. I’m the man in charge of Friday Night SMACKDOWN, you need me onside, Matt. Think about it.

Cole pats Matt on the shoulder and then heads out of the locker room leaving Matt to ponder the words of the SMACKDOWN General Manager before the camera switches back to the ring where Tony Chimel announces that the following match is for the Tag Team Championships!

*** BOURNE TO WIN ***

*** EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY ***

The challengers for the Tag Team Championship head out into the arena to a good reception from the Iowa crowd who are completely behind them in their quest to win the Tag Team Titles tonight. Bourne salutes the crowd and runs down to the ring as Henry, the powerhouse of the team, menacingly makes his way to the ring, a look of focus on his face. In the ring, Henry salutes the crowd with a wave as Bourne jumps up on the ropes to do so as Grisham and Foley speculate over how much of a challenge Bourne and Henry will provide for the Empire tonight ...

*** RULE BRITANNIA ***

*** MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL – THE BRITISH EMPIRE ***
(w/Finlay) | Tag Team Champions

With Finlay waving the Union Jack and leading them out, Ryan and Regal head out dressed in red, white and blue trunks and with the Tag Team Championship belts strapped around their waists. Regal is also wearing a overcoat that shows his class as they head for the ring – Regal is waving and taunting the crowd but Ryan looks focused as Henry did moments ago. The three of them head up the ring steps into the ring where Finlay waves the Union Jack to a chorus of boos and jeers whilst the referee takes the title belts away from the champions. Finlay makes his way out of the ring and Foley stresses his hope that Finlay stays out of this one; Grisham doubts there is any chance of that one as Finlay is shown placing the flag and his shillelagh down on the top of the steps. It looks as if Regal and Henry will be starting the match as the referee holds up the Tag belts and then signals for the bell to start this championship match ...

TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL (c) (w/Finlay) vs. EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY


The match starts out well for the challengers as Regal’s technical wrestling fails to take Henry out of the game and he responds with a huge belly to belly suplex that nearly drives the Englishman through the mat. Henry looks to be dominating from this point as he drags Regal around the ring and hits a number of big moves – the Military Press Drop being the one that leaves Regal in danger in the middle of the ring. Henry goes for a cover but Regal manages to wriggle clear instead and he heads for the corner where he tags in Mason Ryan. Ryan comes in and faces Henry and there is a buzz around the arena as the two big men stare each other out. It is Ryan that breaks the staredown as he tries to catch Henry off guard with a right hand but Henry is unfazed and responds with a forearm to the face of his own before he mows into Ryan with a shoulder to the chest that knocks Ryan off his feet, no mean feat. Angered, Ryan rushes at Henry for a clothesline attempt but Henry scoops him off his feet and hits a huge Side Slam that crashes Ryan down to the mat as well. Cover from Henry on Ryan ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** RYAN KICKS OUT! **

Stunned, Ryan staggers back and Henry’s attention is drawn elsewhere – Finlay is taunting him from the apron where he has just jumped up. As the referee demands Finlay get down, Mason Ryan takes advantage with a poke to the eye of Henry before he follows up with a clothesline that rocks the big man. Henry tags in Bourne as he clutches his face and he leaps up onto the top rope quickly, springboards towards Ryan and looks for a Hurricanrana takedown. However, Ryan is too strong and he catches Bourne coming and he drops him onto the top turnbuckle face first before mowing him down with a clothesline. Dragging Bourne to the corner of the ring where Regal is stood, he immediately goes to work punishing Bourne as the champions now look to cut the ring in half and keep Bourne over on their side of the ring. Frequent tags between Ryan and Regal keep Bourne down and when Regal signals that it is time for the Regal Stretch, things seem bleak for Evan. However, Bourne is nothing if not resilient and he manages to get to the ropes and fight his way to breaking the hold before he manages to hit a series of kicks to Regal to create some space. He springboards off the ropes and hits a dropkick to Mason Ryan as he watches on that knocks him down to the mat and then he makes his way over towards Mark Henry, can he make the tag? Yes he can! However, the referee hasn’t seen it as he was dealing with Finlay who was on the mat – when the ref turns around, he orders Henry back out of the ring. Henry argues and this gives Regal time to drag Bourne out of their corner and he hits him with a suplex before tagging in an angry Mason Ryan. Into the ring comes the Welshman and he immediately sets Bourne up for a Powerbomb to finish the match right here ... Up goes Bourne who then manages to come around and he counters into a Hurricanrana that drives Ryan down into the mat. Bourne makes the tag to Henry!

Henry comes in and barges through Ryan as he gets to his feet before he squashes Regal in the corner as well! Ryan tries to run at him but Henry catches him coming and scoops him up ... WORLD’S STRONGEST SLAM! HENRY SLAMS RYAN DOWN TO THE MAT! Are the titles about to change hands here? Regal makes a distraction but Henry again shoves him through the ropes before he makes the pinfall on Ryan ... New Tag Team Champions?

** 1 **
** 2 **
** RYAN BARELY KICKS OUT! **

The delay caused by Regal saves the titles for the Empire – for now! Henry looks unfussed though and he looks down on Ryan and he smirks before hitting the ropes ... BIG SPLASH! HENRY SQUASHES RYAN AGAIN! Henry makes the tag to Evan Bourne and the crowd get to their feet now in excitement ... Bourne climbs the ropes and surveys the position of Mason Ryan who is down and out and in place ... Bourne springs off the top rope ... 450 SPLASH! Nooooo! At the last moment, Regal drags Ryan out of the way and makes the save, Bourne eats the mat! The referee ushers Regal away as Henry starts to come into the ring, the referee isn’t watching ... BAM! Flagpole shot to the back of Henry as he tries to get into the ring, he slumps down on the ring apron and then falls to the floor as the jeers ring out around the arena. Ryan is up before Bourne ... POWERBOMB! MASON RYAN WITH THE POWERBOMB ON BOURNE! It’s over! Ryan makes the cover but it is surely academic ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL (5:06) via pinfall
Another controversial Tag Team Championship defence for the champions who defeat Bourne and Henry with a little outside help from Finlay, the crowd are not happy but that doesn’t worry the Tag Team Champions. They taunt the crowd as Bourne and Henry stagger away and Regal grabs the Union Jack and waves it in the air. He is delighted to have retained the titles, that is clear, he hands the flag back to Finlay and demands a microphone.

WILLIAM REGAL:
That is why we are the most dominant tag team in the WWE, that is why we are the most dominant Tag Team Champions of all time!

Heat for Regal as he tries to claim that they dominated that match when they were, in actuality, lucky to retain and thankful to outside help from Finlay!

WILLIAM REGAL:
We beat Ryder and Hawkins so badly that they’ve split up, we’ve now beaten Bourne and Henry once more, we’re the Tag Team Champions that you should be proud of. Stand up! Stand up, Iowa! Show some respect for the Tag Team Champions ...

Huge heat now as Regal’s demands are not followed by the crowd who prefer to boo and jeer them instead ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
There isn’t any other team in the WWE that can compete with the British Empire! We will be Tag Team Champions forever! You’d better all start giving us the respect that ...

*** BRINGIN’ DA HOOD T U ***

*** CRYME TYME ***

Huge cheers from the WWE Universe as Cryme Tyme head out onto the stage – Grisham immediately reminds us that at the Royal Rumble, somebody took out these two men and prevented them from appearing in the Tag Team Turmoil match where the British Empire won the Tag Team Championships. Foley laughs at the word ‘somebody’ before declaring that it was obviously the Empire who did it. JTG and Shad bound around on stage and then they stand at the top of the ramp and stare down to the Empire who are stood in the ring looking at them shocked. Their music fades though and silence falls for a second before ...

*** NEW FOUNDATION ***

*** HART DYNASTY ***
(w/Natalya)

With pink lights flashing around the arena, out come David Hart Smith and Tyson Kidd to a huge reception and they also stand at the top of the ramp with Cryme Tyme looking down at the ring where the Empire are stood. It seems that Regal’s comments have annoyed two tag teams here in the WWE – Grisham also reminds us that at the Rumble, the Empire attacked the Dynasty when Regal and Ryan distracted the referee during their entrance – and Finlay snuck in and attacked both Harts with the Union Jack leaving Kidd as easy pickings for Regal when he entered the ring. The Hart Dynasty and Cryme Tyme look to each other and then they all start rushing down the ramp towards the ring towards the Empire. Fearing the worst, Regal, Ryan and Finlay take their title belts and their flags and they exit the ring and clamber over the barricades as JTG, Shad, Kidd and Hart Smith enter the ring and chase them down. The Empire are on the run and it is clear that there are two teams here who are desperate for the chance to shut them up once and for all ...

The cameras switch from the Harts and Cryme Tyme in the ring and they head to Matt Striker in the interview pit.


MATT STRIKER:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome ... CURT HAWKINS!

Hawkins comes into view as Striker holds the microphone ...

MATT STRIKER:
Curt, last week on SMACKDOWN, you were involved in a match with your former Tag Team partner, Zack Ryder ...

A replay comes on showing the arrival of Jack Swagger during the match to attack Ryder and seemingly side with Hawkins rather than Hawkins face Ryder one on one in a fair contest ...

MATT STRIKER:
My question to you, Curt, why didn’t you fight Zack one on one?

Hawkins looks annoyed with Striker’s question and he grabs the microphone from him and shoves him aside. He turns to the camera to address the WWE Universe ...

CURT HAWKINS:
Striker, shut your mouth before I shut it for you. Let me tell you something, I don’t mind facing Zack Ryder one on one, I know I would beat him. But you see, I wanted to make a statement. For weeks now, I have been growing sick and tired of being overlooked here in the WWE. Even when I was a Tag Team Champion, I was overlooked, it’s ridiculous. Ryder and I came back into the WWE, we took the Tag Team Championships away from those idiots Santino and Kozlov and then Zack changed. He began to worry about what you guys thought. He began to worry about entertaining all of you rather than what was important – our Tag Team Championships.

Hawkins shakes his head as he remembers ...

CURT HAWKINS:
So we got to the Rumble and everybody was asking “Will Hawkins and Ryder hold on to their titles?” when the truth was, the question they should have been asking was ... “When will Zack Ryder screw up and cost Curt Hawkins the Tag Team titles?”

Boos around the arena for Hawkins’ comments ...

CURT HAWKINS:
Deep down, I went out to the ring at the Royal Rumble and I knew we weren’t going to win. I knew that screw-up Ryder would mess things up and I knew we’d be losing the titles. And what do you know? We did lose those titles and we failed to regain them on NXT. So I started looking around. I wanted a new partner, I wanted somebody the complete opposite of Ryder, somebody I could trust to care only about winning. And I found that man ... Come on, man.

Into the shot walks the All American American Jack Swagger who is smirking as he comes into shot ...

JACK SWAGGER:
For months now, I have been under-used here in the WWE and it is time for all of that to end. All of you people should recall that less than a year ago I was the All American American World Heavyweight Champion, the greatest World Champion of all time. It is time for Jack Swagger to head back to the top of SMACKDOWN, to the top of the WWE. I’m going to start by joining with Curt Hawkins who has the same philosophy as me. I will not change my style for all of you, I am not interested in entertaining all of you, I am only interested in ... winning.

Swagger looks to Hawkins who nods his head in agreement and claps his new partner on the back ...

JACK SWAGGER:
Zack Ryder is an idiot, he is a guy that will pander to all of you, he wants you to watch his silly little YouTube show, he wants you be his ‘Broski’ and he wants to entertain you? I don’t see it that way, Ryder, I see it that it is time for Jack Swagger ... and my new partner, Curt Hawkins ... to clean up SMACKDOWN and the WWE of people like you. And I will start that clean up right here ... tonight!

Boos for Swagger as he tosses the microphone aside and then laughs with Hawkins as they exit the interview area and the camera returns to the ring. The crowd pops as the music of the afore mentioned Ryder begins ...

*** RADIO ***

*** ZACK RYDER ***

It seems that Ryder’s popularity with the WWE Universe is growing and he heads to the ring with a smile on his face as he greets the fans in the rampway. However, it is clear that Ryder is still annoyed over last week’s events when he gets into the ring and points backstage to show that he can’t wait to get Hawkins or Swagger out here tonight and teach them a lesson.

*** GET DOWN ON YOUR KNEES ***

*** JACK SWAGGER ***
(w/Curt Hawkins)

Hawkins is accompanying the All American American as he makes his way out into the arena and completes some push ups on the stage before heading for the ring with a determined look on his face. Grisham and Foley discuss Swagger’s reasons for joining forces with Hawkins and Foley suggests that Swagger should be concentrating on himself rather than finding a like-minded individual to support him. However, Swagger heads to the ring with Hawkins and they clearly won’t care about Mick Foley’s opinion as they enter the ring. Ryder warily looks over to the two of them; he knows that he needs to be careful whilst it is two against one. The referee orders Curt Hawkins out of the ring and then signals for the bell and the start of the match. Grisham hypes up the match and questions whether or not Ryder can get some revenge when SMACKDOWN returns from the commercial break ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SINGLES MATCH
JACK SWAGGER (w/Curt Hawkins) vs. ZACK RYDER


SMACKDOWN returns partway into the match and we see that Swagger is in control here as he has Ryder under his control. Swagger is taunting Ryder and is slapping him around the head as he steps away from him, Ryder is struggling. Grisham throws to a replay where we see that during the break, Swagger avoided the Broski Boot and then rammed Ryder shoulder first into the ring post. As the replay disappears, we see Ryder is favouring his left shoulder and is really struggling with it. Swagger drags Ryder to his feet and he twists the injured arm around and we see some anguish on the face of Ryder but he tries to fight back with kicks to the quads of Swagger. The All American releases Ryder who continues to fight back with right hands before hitting the ropes to attack Swagger some more ... Swagger catches him though and hits a Tilt-a-whirl slam that crashes Ryder down to the mat hard. Swagger makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** RYDER KICKS OUT! **

Swagger gets to his knees and locks in an Armbar on Ryder’s hurt arm as he tries to wear him down in the centre of the ring. Ryder is desperate to get to his feet or to the ropes but Swagger is using his considerable power advantage to keep the leverage over Ryder and keep him down on the mat struggling. Hawkins taunts Ryder from the outside of the ring and says out loud “Is this entertaining enough for you, Zack?” before laughing. However, this seems to inspire Ryder a little and he begins to force himself up whilst a chant begins in the arena of ‘Let’s go, Ryder!’ that also fires him up some more. Ryder reaches his feet and forces Swagger back to the corner before Swagger counters by whipping him across the ring to the opposite corner. As Swagger rushes over, Ryder jumps up and gets his knees into the face of Swagger to knock him back to the delight of the crowd. A flying forearm follows from Zack and he manages to create a gap between him and his opponent before catching Swagger as he comes flying towards him again with a flapjack that crashes the All American down into the mat face first. Swagger rolls to the corner and sits against the bottom buckle, perfect set up ... BROSKI BOOT! Ryder hits a stiff boot to the face of Swagger and makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** SWAGGER KICKS OUT! **

Ryder is disappointed but he is on a roll now. The crowd are right behind him and Swagger is slowly getting up as Ryder moves back waiting ... Ryder runs over towards Swagger and looks to hit the Rough Ryder but he fails as Swagger swats him away. Still stunned, Swagger turns back towards Ryder again but a drop kick from Ryder sends him down again. Zack goes to get Swagger once more but this time he is distracted by his former partner, Hawkins. Zack and Hawkins have a war of words and it proves enough as Swagger rolls Ryder over and has him in place ... ANKLE LOCK! SWAGGER APPLIES THE ANKLE LOCK TO RYDER! Zack yells in pain before desperately trying to reach the bottom rope. The crowd urge him on as Hawkins taunts him from the outside, Ryder stretches and pulls and inches towards the ropes ... However, he just can’t stand it no longer and with half a metre still left to go ...

** TAP **
** TAP **
** TAP **

WINNER:
JACK SWAGGER (6:43) via submission
Boos echo around the arena as Hawkins leaps into the ring and raises Swagger’s arm in victory. Ryder is down in the corner clutching his ankle whilst Swagger celebrates. Curt can’t resist though and he flies over at Zack and begins pounding away at him. Right hands rain down on the head of Ryder who is completely loopy and then Hawkins drags him over and feed him to Swagger again ... Jack is only too willing to lock on the Ankle Lock once more despite the protestations of the referee and he wrenches Ryder’s ankle in the hold as Zack yelps in pain. Hawkins is enjoying this but the crowd are booing. Eventually, the referee threatens Swagger with a reversal of the decision and he releases Ryder – nothing is more important than winning! Ryder is down on the mat in pain and Hawkins spots his chance ... He heads for the top rope ... HEAT SEEKING ELBOW FROM HAWKINS TO RYDER! Boos erupt again around the arena as Swagger and Hawkins head through the ropes with a smirk on their faces, Ryder is beaten down and helpless in the ring.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with a replay of the confrontation earlier tonight between Christian and Michael Cole in the ring where we see Christian letting everybody know that he is entitled to a one on one Elimination Chamber qualifying match and Michael Cole slapping him across the face before announcing that his opponent will be John Cena ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***

*** JOHN CENA ***
(w/Michael Cole)

Huge boos around the arena as John Cena heads out onto the stage and he stands at the top of the ramp with a smirk on his face at all the hate he is receiving. Cena waves his hand in front of his face as he tells the Iowa crowd that they “can’t see” him before he beckons back to the backstage entrance and out walks the SMACKDOWN General Manager. If possible, there is even more heat for Cole who is despised by the WWE Universe and he shakes Cena’s hand and follows him towards the ring. Cena jumps into the ring whilst Cole makes his way around it and joins Todd Grisham and Mick Foley at the announce table, obviously Cole is ready to call the end of Christian’s time here on SMACKDOWN ...

MICHAEL COLE:
You gentlemen don’t mind if I join you, do you?

TODD GRISHAM:
Course not, welc ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Shut up, Grisham. I’m the General Manager around here, if I want to come out here and announce a match, I will do. Just remember that I am still the greatest announcer in WWE history even if I am busy with other things nowadays. How are you doing, Mick?

Foley raises his eyebrows at Cole on camera and doesn’t respond. Cole shrugs his shoulders ...

MICHAEL COLE:
An announcer that refuses to speak? OK then, maybe that is something I should consider in your next job evaluation!

In the ring, Cena is taunting the crowd and getting prepared for this match, a huge match tonight for Christian as he looks to secure a place not only in the Elimination Chamber but also in the SMACKDOWN locker room!

MICHAEL COLE:
What a night it has been so far, Jeff Hardy has earned his place in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match, Matt Hardy has finally woken up and done something entertaining, the Empire have defended their Tag Team Championships, that goofball Ryder has been taken out, we’ve still got the Buried Alive match to come and right now it is time for Christian to lose his job here on SMACKDOWN!

MICK FOLEY:
You know, Cole, I wouldn’t count your chickens just yet. Christian is one tough ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Did I give you permission to speak to me, Foley? Just remember – I’m your boss.

*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***

*** CHRISTIAN ***

MICHAEL COLE:
Did you see the look on Christian’s face when I slapped him earlier? Boy, that felt good!

Out comes Christian with a look of determination in his eyes, he heads for the ring knowing that this could be the most important match of his WWE career so far. On one hand, he could be taking a significant step towards the World Championship, on the other hand, he could be taking his final step out of the SMACKDOWN door ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Here is a man that tonight, when he loses to John Cena, will be leaving SMACKDOWN for good. Maybe I should give him Shawn Michaels’ number as he leaves? I hear RAW can always use another loser!

Christian steps into the ring and he stares down at Cole on the announce table, he clearly wants to head out there and take revenge on Cole for slapping him earlier tonight. However, he knows he has to focus on his match, his chance to beat Cena and head for the Elimination Chamber in two weeks time for a shot at the World Championship.

MICHAEL COLE:
That’s right, Christian, you stay up there where you’re safe. You don’t want none of Michael Cole!

Foley snorts as he laughs and this causes Cole to angrily turn to face him ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Is something wrong, Foley? Like I told you earlier, I am your boss now and I can fire you along with this no good loser in the ring if you would like?

The referee checks on Cena and Christian before he heads over towards the timekeeper, he is ready to signal for the bell to ring when all of a sudden ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***

*** CM PUNK ***
World Heavyweight Champion

MICHAEL COLE:
What the hell is he doing here?

A mixed reaction for Punk again, it seems that many people are cheering him after his recent defence of Christian and his right to be in the Elimination Chamber match. Punk has the World Championship strapped around his waist and both Cena and Christian look surprised to see him as he struts down the ramp towards the ring. He reaches the foot of the ramp and pauses as he looks up at both Cena and Christian before heading around the ring and also joining the announce table for this match!

MICHAEL COLE:
Punk, I have not given you permission to be out here!

CM PUNK:
Hello there, Michael Cole. How are you doing, sir?

Cole blusters for a moment and looks angrily at his World Champion.

MICHAEL COLE:
You do realise that I ...

CM PUNK:
SMACKDOWN General Manager, yadda yadda, your boss, yadda yadda. Change the record, Cole, I know damn well who you are. But you seem to be forgetting who I am. (Punk holds up the title belt) I’m YOUR World Champion, Cole, that means that I can go where I want, when I want. Now shall we get on with watching this match?

Foley nods his head to Punk and the referee appears to agree as well as he signals for the bell so that the match can begin ...

SINGLES MATCH – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFIER (If Christian wins, he qualifies. If Christian loses, he is fired)
CHRISTIAN vs. JOHN CENA


As the match begins, the WWE Universe break out the chant of ‘Let’s go, Christian! Cena sucks!’ as Cena and Christian circle each other. Michael Cole applauds Cena and gives him encouragement from the announce table, he clearly trusts Cena to get the job done tonight and ensure that Christian is fired from SMACKDOWN later tonight. The two men in the ring tie up and Cena displays his undoubted power as he shoves Christian over to huge boos from the crowd. Cena smirks at them and beckons to Christian to get back up and fight. Christian does exactly that and the pair of them grapple once more, this time Christian spins round the back of Cena, arms around his waist, German Suplex from Christian! Cena’s shoulders are down ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CENA KICKS OUT! **

First move goes to Christian but Cena isn’t happy over that and he rushes Christian immediately after and hits him with a clothesline that knocks Christian down to the mat. The Canadian gets up quickly but Cena takes control here as he hits an Atomic Drop and follows it up with another clothesline before making his first cover of the match ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CHRISTIAN KICKS OUT! **

With the match heading under the control of Cena, Michael Cole begins to get mouthy again on commentary ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Christian has no chance here tonight, Punk. He’s in the ring with the man who won the 2011 Royal Rumble, he’s in the ring with the man who I believe will go to WrestleMania 27 and beat the World Champion, whoever that may be, he is the greatest WWE superstar to ever set foot here on SMACKDOWN, end of discussion.

CM PUNK:
You really believe that, Cole? Wow, you’re even more stupid than I thought you were.

Back in the ring, Cena is now dominating Christian as he hits a Belly to Belly suplex that crashes Christian down to the mat – Cena is controlling this and Christian appears, with the stakes so high, to be freezing. Cena lifts himself up onto the middle rope and he surveys Christian for a moment before leaping off and connecting with a punch to the face of the Canadian before he makes another cover and hooks the leg ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CHRISTIAN POPS A SHOULDER OUT! **

Cena is beginning to get a little over confident here though and it shows when he delays by mocking the crowd only to then fail when he goes for a Bulldog moments later. As he comes off the ropes, Christian looks dazed but as Cena goes for the Bulldog, Christian is able to avoid it and he grabs Cena and tosses him over the top rope causing Foley to suggest that it is a pity Christian didn’t do that two weeks ago to eliminate Cena from the Royal Rumble and spare them all the build up to Cena going to WrestleMania 27. With Cena down outside the ring and Cole looking hesitant for the first time tonight, Christian heads out and goes to ram Cena into the ring steps, however, Cena reverses it and it is Christian that crashes into them instead. Big mistake from Christian there as SMACKDOWN heads into a commercial break once more ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

As SMACKDOWN returns, Grisham brings us up to date with Cena and Christian back in the ring. A replay of Cena attempting to hit the FU to Christian on the outside of the ring is shown but Christian countered by wriggling clear and running Cena head first into the ring post instead and we have now got Christian on the offensive in the ring. Christian whips Cena to the ropes and as he comes back, Flapjack! Cena’s head bounces off the canvas and the man fighting for a chance to go to the Elimination Chamber looks over to Cole.

MICHAEL COLE:
The fact of the matter is this – Christian has only minutes left of his career here on SMACKDOWN. If I were him, I wouldn’t be in the ring fighting a losing battle for a chance at the World Championship. I’d be out here on my knees in front of the General Manager begging for my job.

CM PUNK:
The ‘Michael Cole Kiss-my-ass’ club? Original.

Christian continues on the attack against Cena, he catches Cena with an inverted DDT as he misses with an elbow strike, Christian hooks the leg and makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CENA KICKS OUT TO THE RELIEF OF COLE! **

As both men get to their feet, Christian is quicker and he springboards off the ropes into a dropkick that knocks Cena back down to the mat. Quick as he can, Christian climbs the ropes and dives off into a Crossbody. However, Cena manages to catch him and displays great strength as he readjusts Christian in his arms and then drops him in a Sidewalk Slam that crushes Christian down to the mat instead. Cover from Cena this time and he decides to put his feet up on the ropes for extra leverage here as well ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CHRISTIAN KICKS OUT! **

The crowd saw Cena using the ropes and they jeer him for it but the Royal Rumble winner isn’t bothered by that. Cena ducks under a clothesline from Christian and then hits his patented shoulder blocks ... one, two, three of them as the crowd rise to their feet and boo Cena’s actions. Cole stands and applauds Cena as he looks excited that this could be the end of the match and Cena follows up the shoulder blocks by lifting Christian up and dropping him on his back, Protoplex! The WWE Universe know what is coming next and, on cue, here comes Cena with the Five Knuckle Shuffle. He comes off the ropes, waves his hand across his face to all four sides of the arena as well as CM Punk at ringside before trying to drop it to Christian ... Christian stuns Cena with a quick, surprise roll up, could this be a shock win?

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CENA KICKS OUT JUST IN TIME! **

Cena puffs out his cheeks as he gets up, avoids the right hand thrown by Christian and hip tosses him over onto his back once more. With Christian in a sitting position, Cena hits the ropes and hits a low drop kick before he stands over Christian once more, waves across his face and connects this time, Five Knuckle Shuffle. The crowd are jeering Cena but he doesn’t care, he wants to prove his loyalty to Michael Cole right here, he wants to take Christian out of the SMACKDOWN picture and he wants to pick up momentum as he heads for the Elimination Chamber clash with Randy Orton. With Christian down on the mat, Cena decides it is time for a submission hold and he drops down on top of Christian and locks in the STFU hold. STFU FROM CENA! Will Christian be able to hold on? Cena wrenches back on Christian but the Canadian, importantly, gets his foot loose quickly from the position in which Cena tried to lock it in. Christian uses both feet to push himself towards the ropes, can he make it? YES! Christian reaches the ropes and forces the break. Cena isn’t impressed and he drags Christian back to the centre of the ring and looks to lock in the STFU once again, this time, though, Christian is able to tug at Cena’s arm and send him sprawling over the middle rope. Christian baseball slides out of the ring and connects with a hard, right hand to Cena’s face and sends him backwards clutching his nose. Christian slides back into the ring and, as Cena gets up, springboards up and over him, Sunset Flip into a pinning combination ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CENA KICKS OUT! **

Both men get up at the same time now and they begin trading heavy, right hands back and forth, the crowd are cheering Christian’s shots and jeering Cena’s. This time, Christian gets the better of it but Cena counters with a whip to the corner. As Cena follows in, Christian hits a Pendulum Kick around the ropes and Cena staggers back into the centre of the ring. On his back, Cena is in trouble as Christian climbs the ropes, could it be time for a Frog Splash? No, Cena rolls out of the ring to Cole’s relief but this doesn’t deter Christian and he leaps from the top rope to the outside of the ring instead and hits a beautiful Plancha that takes Cena down to the floor hard. Cole leaps to his feet nearby and he berates Christian but the Canadian laughs at him and shoves him back down into his chair at the announce desk. Looking confident now, Christian rolls Cena back into the ring and then follows, as soon as he does though, Cena hits a kick to the gut and lifts him to his shoulders, FU? No! Christian wriggles clear and sets for the Killswitch instead. Cena counter and shoves Christian away into the corner of the ring, his chest colliding with the buckles. As Cena approaches him again though, Christian hits a stiff back kick to the knee of Cena and then a clothesline to knock him down to the mat before springboarding off the ropes and knocking Cena down with a shoulder block. Quickly, Christian ascends the ropes, Cena is down and out on the mat ... FROG SPLASH! CHRISTIAN CONNECTS WITH A FROG SPLASH! Has he just earned his place in the Elimination Chamber World Championship match?

MICHAEL COLE:
No, no, no, kick out, Cena! Kick out!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** NO! SO CLOSE! **

A chant of ‘Christian! Christian!’ goes up in the arena, the WWE Universe are firmly behind him here as he looks to inflict Cena’s first defeat since the Rumble. Christian again looks to hit the Killswitch but Cena counters with a suplex that puts Christian down and allows him time to recover a little, a great defensive move from Cena. The Rumble winner stands back and waits for Christian to get up before hitting another combination of shoulder blocks and then another Protoplex before Cena heads for the top rope ... Leg Drop to the back of Christian’s head and shoulders. Cena makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CHRISTIAN KICKS OUT! **

MICHAEL COLE:
Come on, John, it’s time to put this idiot out of his misery once and for all!

Cena steps back and he beckons for Christian to get to his feet as he waits and waits behind him, stalking his prey, ready to strike. The crowd are screaming for Christian to realise what is coming but he groggily gets up to his knees with no sign that he is aware that Cena is waiting to pounce ...

MICHAEL COLE:
This is it, Punk. The end of your new best friend, Christian is out of here in just a few ... Wait, where are you going?

CM PUNK:
Do you think I’m going to stay sat here all night, Cole?

Punk winks at Cole and then throws his headset at him before he slides into the ring, dropping the World Championship on the way, and stands up in front of Christian as he gets up. The referee orders Punk to get back out of the ring whilst Cena looks at him and prepares for a fight. However, Punk does the one thing that nobody expects him to do – as Christian gets up to his feet, Punk clotheslines him and knocks him back down to the mat as everybody in the arena stares stunned at what they’ve just seen. Cena looks confused towards Punk who shrugs his shoulders and winks at Cena, the referee has no choice ...

** THE REFEREE SIGNALS FOR THE BELL TO DISQUALIFY JOHN CENA! **

WINNER:
CHRISTIAN (9:36) via disqualification
Punk leaves Christian and heads over to the ropes where he stands staring down at Cole and Cena who has exited the ring – he taps his head and laughs as it becomes clear what has happened here ...

TONY CHIMEL:
The winner of this match, as a result of a disqualification, and qualifying for the Elimination Chamber match ... CHRISTIAN!

Realising what CM Punk has just done, the WWE Universe cheer loudly whilst Cole and Cena look on in anger. Christian has qualified for the Elimination Chamber thanks to CM Punk! Cole looks stunned by this and he throws the headset down in temper before storming off around the ring and up the ramp. Cena looks on at Punk who now holds up the World Championship to mock Cena who shakes his head and begins to walk away. Punk laughs and then turns to Christian with the title still held high. Christian and Punk are speaking in the ring even though we can’t hear it. Clearly, Punk is telling him that he has gotten him a shot at the title, now he has chance to prove that he can win it. Christian nods his head and there is a look of respect between the pair of them as the camera follows them out of the ring ... Grisham and Foley laugh about the look on Michael Cole’s face when he stormed off at the end before Grisham hypes up our main event match tonight – a Buried Alive match between Kane and the Undertaker. Foley says it is too close to call and with the spot in the Chamber up for grabs, both of these men will pull out all the stops tonight to try and make sure that they get the victory that they need. Grisham throws out to a video outlining the issues between these two men in their WWE careers ...


GCB NOTE: Ignore the bit about the World Championship!

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***


SMACKDOWN returns with Michael Cole in his office with the phone glued to his ear looking agitated ...

MICHAEL COLE:
What do you mean? That can’t .......... No, you gotta’ listen to me .......... Wait .......... Christian won the match on a disqualification, that isn’t allowed .......... What do you mean? He didn’t win the match fairly and .......... But CM Punk .......... Wait .......... NO! NO! Are you there?

Cole listens but it appears that the Board of Directors representative he was seemingly on the phone to has hung up on him. He angrily throws the cellphone across the room and it crashes against the wall before he sits down with his head in his hands looking devastated with how things have turned out. The camera switches back to ringside where we see the mound of earth stocked up and the gravestone on top of it as Grisham reminds us of the current Elimination Chamber line-up – World Champion CM Punk is defending against Big Show, Kofi Kingston, Jeff Hardy, Christian and the winner of the next match, the Buried Alive match between Kane and the Undertaker. Foley says he cannot wait and then the lights go out and it is time for the main event ...

*** SLOW CHEMICAL ***

*** KANE ***

With eerie red lights in the arena, out walks the demented younger brother, the self proclaimed ‘Devil’s Favourite Demon’, the Big Red Monster ... Kane. He stops on the ramp and looks across at the mountain of earth and then heads over towards it and picks up a handful of dirt with a look of a madman about him. He turns and heads for the ring laughing to himself as he gets boos from the WWE Universe who really want to see Kane defeated tonight. Stood in the centre of the ring, Kane raises his hands high and then drops them ... BOOM! The lights return as the ringposts explode in red flame, Kane’s trademark entrance is still amazing even now. Walking around the ring and talking to himself, Kane appears to be crazy as he prepares for this match tonight and he waits ...

... and waits ...

... and waits ...

... ‘Un-der-ta-ker!’ is the chant from the WWE Universe ...

... and Kane waits and waits ...

... and then, to the sound of huge cheers, the lights go out again and the arena is plunged into darkness!


*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***

*** GRAVEYARD SYMPHONY ***


*** THE UNDERTAKER ***

The awesome entrance of the Undertaker begins as fires burn on the stage, dry ice fog covers the arena floor and the blue, purple and silver lights flash around the stage as the Deadman returns to SMACKDOWN ready for action once more. After his last match at the Rumble, Taker has not been seen but he is here tonight with a chance to earn a spot in the World Championship match at the Elimination Chamber – what a fantastic opportunity this is. As the Phenom appears on the stage, creeping through the shadows, the crowd go wild with delight to see him and Grisham reminds us that Undertaker will be out for revenge after Kane’s assistance in his elimination from the Royal Rumble by John Cena. Taker slowly approaches the ring where Kane is waiting for him, he stops on the ring steps and he raises his hands high to bring back the lights. Standing outside the ring, Taker locks eyes with his demented brother, Kane, and steps through the ropes into hell. Removing his coat, the eye contact between the two will not break until Taker removes his hat ... The thunder sounds echo around the arena as he rolls his eyes back but then Kane attacks him and the match is under way as the bell is rung on the referee’s instruction ...

BURIED ALIVE MATCH – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFIER
KANE vs. THE UNDERTAKER


Kane’s sneak attack to start the match gives him the upper hand in the beginning as he thunders right hands into the face of Taker. However, the Deadman looks determined to punish Kane here tonight after all he has put him through over the past year and he cuts Kane off and starts to deliver a huge set of right hands of his own. Kane is wobbling already as the right hands continue from Taker, they’re absolutely smashing down into the head of Kane who tries to cover up and protect himself. The fans are on their feet for this fast start as Undertaker steps back a moment before clotheslining Kane up and over the top rope. The Big Red Monster lands on his feet but wobbles on the outside, Undertaker has him in trouble early here with this quick start. Taker stalks after his little brother and slams his head hard into the ring steps, not once, but twice, Kane’s bald head smashes into the steps with a crash. Kane tries to get away but he can’t and Taker spins him round before whipping him into the steps this time, BAM! Kane hits the steps with a ferocious smash and they come loose with the impact. Undertaker looks down on Kane as the crowd cheer for him, what a start from the Phenom of the WWE. Dragging Kane up again, Undertaker again slams Kane’s head into the steps and then into the ring post, he seems intent on destroying him here. Into the ring rolls Kane, trying to escape, Taker follows him in. A kick to the gut from Kane slows Undertaker for a moment but then Kane misses with a clothesline and Taker hits a series of choke thrusts that stagger Kane back to the corner. Taker whips Kane over to the opposite corner and then follows in ... Clothesline! Another whip to the original corner ... another Clothesline! Kane staggers away and Taker hits the ropes ... Big Boot to the face and Kane is sent crashing down to the mat as the cheers erupt around the arena.

Kane is groggily getting to his feet, he doesn’t know what has hit him so far. Taker grabs his arm and twists it around, the crowd cheer and shout “Old School” as Taker winds it up before stepping to the corner. He climbs to the top turnbuckle and then, balancing precariously, he walks along the top rope before dropping a heavy right arm across the back of his brother, Kane. Staggering to the corner on his hands and knees, Kane looks shocked and Taker stomps the hell out of him in the corner, turning back the clock to his glory days, forcing Kane under the bottom rope for safety and respite. As Kane props himself against the announce table, Undertaker hits the ropes opposite and comes running over ... He leaps over the top rope and flies into the Big Red Monster and the pair of them crash over the table and scatter the chairs and the announcers. “Holy s**t!” is the response of some of the crowd, this is amazing from Undertaker so far here on SMACKDOWN. As the camera finds a way to get closer to the two brothers, we see Undertaker is pummelling the face of Kane over and over on the floor where the chairs once were. Taker steps out from behind the desk and is greeted by a huge cheer from the crowd, Foley is watching on with a look of awe in his eyes, he knows what this type of match with Undertaker is like and he comments that he has never seen the Undertaker this dominant in a Buried Alive match before. Kane crawls over the table and Undertaker goes to deliver more right hands but Kane has a plan – he pokes Taker in the eyes and this buys him a little time. Taker wobbles away a little before turning back towards the Big Red Monster ... BAM! TV MONITOR TO THE SKULL FROM KANE! Undertaker drops down to his knees clutching his face, what a resourceful move from Kane there to stop the momentum of the Deadman.

Kane regains his composure a little and takes time to recover. Once he is ready, he stalks up behind Taker and, when he turns around, he delivers some heavy right hands of his own. Finding their target, Kane’s right hands are doing some damage but not enough ... Undertaker responds with rights of his own and forces Kane back again. Kane looks a little desperate and whips Taker to the barricades where he hits his back hard. However, when Kane rushes at him looking to knock him over the barricades, Taker moves, allows Kane to collide with them and then clotheslines him over them instead. Kane staggers to his feet in amongst the crowd now and tries to put distance between himself and Taker, the Deadman follows through the sea of people here for SMACKDOWN tonight. Kane stumbles into the technical area and Taker follows where he corners him against some steps. Right hands from Taker rain down on Kane’s skull over and over, Kane cannot get into the match at all. Taker drags Kane up and slams him into crates and audio speakers, mixing in more right hands, the crowd around them cheering him all the way. Kane cannot get any offence in and his only hope appears to keep moving. Taker follows him through the crowd and then grabs him near the barricades further around the ring near the aisle. He tosses Kane over them and steps over himself – completely in control. As Kane props himself against the ring post, Undertaker reaches under the ring and pulls out a steel chair! Kane is unaware of what Taker has in his hand and he goes to slam it into his back ... BING! Kane moves at the last second and Taker smashes the chair into the post instead, Kane throwsa punch, Taker ducks and then jams the chair into the stomach of Kane.

The chair is tossed by Taker over the top rope and into the ring, he obviously has further plans for it. He rolls Kane into the ring under the rope but keeps his head hanging over the edge of the ring apron, we know what is coming here! Up onto the apron goes Undertaker, he runs along the edge of the ring ... Hanging Legdrop! Kane clutches his throat as Taker rolls back into the ring with the cheers ringing in his ears. What a performance this is proving to be from the Deadman! After all his injuries and disappearances of late, he is back even more dominant than ever before! In the ring, Taker grabs the chair once again but Kane sees him and makes a quick exit under the ropes, out of the ring he goes with Taker in pursuit. Kane steps over the barricades once more but Taker grabs him and drags him back towards him, right hand in retaliation from Kane! Taker staggers and Kane puts some distance between them as he makes his way through the WWE Universe and starts up the steps. Taker is following again though, Kane sees him and he throws another right hand, another brawl begins in the crowd between these two. Once again, Undertaker comes out on top of this fistfight and then he drags Kane back towards the ring instead and throws him over the barricades once more. Kane crawls into the ring and Taker follows up the ring steps taking a breath as he does. Into the ring goes Taker, Kane is down but he does get hold of the chair as Taker approaches him ... BOOM! Kane rams the chair into the mid-section of the Deadman who doubles up a little, Kane stands up quickly and raises the chair ... BAM! CHAIR SHOT TO THE BACK OF UNDERTAKER! BAM! Another shot to the back from Kane! BAM! And another! Kane has got a leveller right here, no disqualification, this is perfectly legal! As Taker falls to his knees, Kane comes off the ropes and hits a boot to the face of Taker to knock him onto his back. Kane has wrestled the control away from Undertaker and – just like that – he is dominating.

Kane picks up the chair once more and he props it up over the throat of Undertaker, choking him with the chair legs, willing him to give it up, willing him to lay down, willing him to die. Kane is maniacal, he looks possessed by evil as the veins in his head throb, Taker is writhing in pain under the steel, his throat jammed with the chair. Kane starts to stomp away at Undertaker before he jams the chair into his stomach once more, this is what Kane knew he would have to do tonight. BAM! CHAIR SHOT TO THE BACK OF TAKER! Kane looks around at the WWE Universe and smirks now, he tosses the chair away and sets himself, holding his hand up behind him ... Up staggers Undertaker ... CHOKE SLAM! KANE CHOKE SLAMS UNDERTAKER! The crowd boo but Kane has laid out his brother although, as Grisham reminds us, he’ll need more than that to incapacitate the Undertaker enough to bury him alive. Kane stands over Taker and yells at him, “I told you to stay away, Deadman!” he yells, before stepping back again as Taker groggily rolls over and gets slowly back up ... CHOKE SLAM! ANOTHER CHOKE SLAM FROM KANE! Undertaker is laid out on his back, if this was a normal match, it would be over and Kane would be getting the 1, 2, 3! However, it isn’t a normal match, the only way to win is to bury your opponent alive. Kane smiles an evil smile and he drags Taker, wobbling on his jelly legs, up once more ... Kane looks at him with an evil smirk and then sets up ... TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER! KANE TOMBSTONES UNDERTAKER! Taker’s head bounces off the mat and Kane stands over him and laughs.

Now Kane’s problem is how will he get the Phenom from the ring to the grave? He begins to drag Taker’s dead weight out of the ring but it is taking time. Once he has Taker out of the ring, Kane lifts him up onto his shoulder and he slowly carries him up the aisle towards the mound of earth waiting for him. Almost at the top of the ramp, Kane drops Taker on the metal floor and takes a breather as he looks up to the top of the mound, about six foot high, and wonders how to get Taker up there. Kane takes a deep breath and goes to drag Taker up once more but Taker has recovered a little and he grabs Kane’s throat and tosses him from the ramp to the hard floor below. A desperate counter move from Undertaker there! Both men need time to recover and replays of some of the action so far are shown as they do – Foley says that whoever wins this will definitely be one of the favourites in the Elimination Chamber. As both men get to their feet, Undertaker jumps down off the ramp and joins Kane on the concrete floor and they begin to trade blows once more. Over and over, taking longer and longer, they throw right hands at each other, the crowd cheering Taker and jeering Kane. In the end, Undertaker, with his tenth punch of the trade, starts to overpower Kane and he has chance to deliver a number of rights to Kane. Kane is looking to escape now and he climbs the mound of earth, the WWE Universe come alive as Taker follows, we’re getting to the really exciting part now! Kane desperately throws a punch at Taker but he misses and Undertaker grasps him by the throat ... Choke Slam into the grave? NO! LOW BLOW FROM KANE! A desperation move and the crowd boo him for it but Kane does not care at all. Taker sinks to his knees and Kane spots his chance and delivers a Big Boot to the face and Undertaker falls to the earth.

This is Kane’s chance, you sense that he needs to put Taker away and quickly. Kane approaches Taker looking tired, looking desperate, looking battered and bruised. As Kane goes to drag Taker towards the hole in the mound, Taker delights the fans here in Des Moines as he sits up with a bulging look in his eyes, he is frothing at the mouth as he stares right through Kane. HELL’S GATE! TAKER LOCKS IN HELL’S GATE ON KANE! Kane is desperately trying to escape but there is nothing that he can do, Taker wrenches it in further and further and punishes Kane for everything he has put him through as Kane teeters close to the edge of the six foot drop beside him. Kane’s desperate, panicking movements start to subside and he seems to be passing out here as Taker wrenches at the Hell’s Gate hold more and more. Kane’s arm goes limp, he has passed out but Taker continues to hold it. Eventually, the Phenom is satisfied that Kane is finished and he releases the hold to huge cheers from the WWE Universe. Taker looks down on Kane’s lifeless, limp body laid beside the hole and he cuts his throat – it is time to be buried! Undertaker drops to his knees and rolls Kane with all his might ... KANE FALLS INTO THE GRAVE!

CAN UNDERTAKER NOW BURY KANE ALIVE?

The cheers and shouts of the WWE Universe are so loud here, they seem to pick up as Taker moves around towards the mound of earth beside the grave. He goes to pick up a shovel, Grisham tells us he needs to completely cover Kane’s body with earth. A shot inside the grave shows us that Kane is still lifeless, this match is surely over?

BAM!

SHOVEL SHOT TO THE BACK OF UNDERTAKER’S SKULL!

WHAT THE HELL?!



JOHN CENA? Why is Cena out here? Why has he just clobbered Undertaker with a shovel? Undertaker is on his knees, in pain from the shot from behind, he gets slowly to his feet and turns around to see who attacked him ... BAM! ANOTHER SHOVEL TO THE SKULL FROM CENA! Undertaker goes down this time clutching his head and Cena stands over him. He raises the shovel again and starts to smash it down over and over again into the stomach of Undertaker, the crowd are booing, there is so much heat for Cena right now! What is he doing? Foley reminds us that Cena eliminated Undertaker from the Rumble with help from Kane, is this payback for Kane’s assistance? Cena’s shots with the shovel seem to have done the trick and he throws the shovel away with a look of madness in his eyes. Cena waits as Undertaker starts to get to his knees, what is he going to do now? Up gets Taker, slowly, he turns ... FU! CENA WITH THE FU!

UNDERTAKER LANDS IN THE GRAVE WITH KANE!

The crowd gasp in horror! What has Cena just done? He has just hit the FU to Undertaker and dropped him down six foot into the grave where he has landed on top of Kane! Cena looks around as he is hit with mega heat from the crowd, then Cena looks down at the shovel. A thought passes through his mind and he picks the shovel up ... What the hell is Cena doing now? He starts shovelling dirt into the grave and he starts covering both Undertaker and Kane! Is Cena going to bury both of the brothers alive?

No. Kane is moving, Kane is getting up and he sees what Cena is doing. He doesn’t look impressed as he scrambles his way out of the grave and Cena drops the shovel and starts to back away, his hands raised up to Kane as if to apologise. Kane stalks towards him and Cena backs down the mound of earth and onto the stage. Kane is after him and Cena decides to get the hell out of here. Kane is on stage and Cena is gone ... Kane turns to look back to the digger and the mound of earth where Undertaker is laid in the grave. He laughs and smiles, he raises his arms as he looks up at the digger with the bucket of earth hanging over the grave. Kane drops his arms and everybody expects to see the dirt fall into the grave ...

DARKNESS!

The lights are off and nothing is visible here. The fans cheer, is this a sign that Taker is fine? On come the lights again and Kane looks mystified as he looks around the stage. He drops down to the floor and scrambles up the mound of earth, the camera follows him as he reaches the top and looks down into the grave where his brother is ... is ... is ... gone! Where has the Undertaker disappeared to? Kane blinks and can’t believe it. He rubs his eyes leaving streaks of earth over his face and looks again. No Undertaker! Where on earth has he gone?

GONG!

THE LIGHTS GO OFF AGAIN!

The WWE Universe here are cheering and screaming as they await the return of the Deadman ...

GONG!

THE LIGHTS RETURN!

Kane is now stood back on the stage looking around paranoid. The camera shows that there is still no sign of the Undertaker in the grave and we see Kane looking round desperately, he doesn’t know where Taker is.

GONG!

LIGHTS OFF ONCE MORE!

What the hell is happening here? Classic Undertaker mind-games as the WWE Universe cheer and shout ...

GONG!

THE LIGHTS RETURN!

Kane is still looking around, he looks terrified as he stands on the stage looking around desperately. The WWE Universe start to go wild though, they see what Kane can’t as Undertaker climbs out of the grave and down the mound of earth, sneaking up behind Kane. The Big Red Monster gets a look of terror on his face as he realises that somebody is behind him ... he turns ... CHOKE SLAM! ON THE STEEL STAGE! Kane’s body is writhing in pain, Taker has smashed it down hard onto the steel. The crowd know what is coming next too, they are going crazy now as Taker cuts his throat once more! He drags Kane up, lifts him up ... TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER! KANE IS TOMBSTONED ON THE STAGE! Kane’s lights are completely out, Taker has him beat now surely! Kane is dragged up by Taker, he drags his brother down the ramp, over the concrete floor and up the mound of earth, there are no signs of life in Kane! Undertaker drops Kane down at the side of the grave, he waits and looks down on Kane who is showing a flicker of life as he moves a little ... Taker waits ... Kane rolls over and starts to get up to his knees ... Taker waits ... Kane is up to one foot ... Taker waits ... Kane is on two feet, wobbling, spins around ... CHOKESLAM! INTO THE GRAVE!

CAN UNDERTAKER BURY KANE ALIVE?

The crowd are cheering for Taker as Kane is shown down in the grave, his body smashed down at the bottom, six foot under and knocked out cold. Taker looks up at the bucket of the digger, full of earth, he raises his hands up high and a lightning bolt crashes down from the roof of the arena ... The bucket tips over and the earth falls out and down into the grave covering Kane and filling it up. Undertaker watches at it covers his brother ...

** UNDERTAKER BURIES KANE ALIVE! **

WINNER:
THE UNDERTAKER (14:39)
As the Undertaker’s eerie music begins to play once again, the crowd go wild as Taker stands tall on the top of the mound of earth, the grave now filled with dirt from the bucket of the digger stood beside it and the battered body of his brother, Kane. As Taker looks down on the grave and the stone, he rolls his eyes as Grisham reminds us that this victory now means that Undertaker will join CM Punk, Big Show, Kofi Kingston, Jeff Hardy and Christian in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match where the World Championship will be up for grabs. Foley says that those five guys need to be on red alert now that Undertaker is in the match – who would bet against him winning? He also suggests that John Cena might not be sleeping too easy in his bed tonight after his attempt at interfering in the match. Taker drops to his knee on the bank of mud, the lights dim once more and the titantron comes alive with the words REST IN PEACE, KANE and Undertaker cuts his throat into his own pose. With the crowd cheering, SMACKDOWN fades away for another week.

*** END OF SHOW ***

=========================================


ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011
*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

GRUDGE MATCH
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Christian vs. The Undertaker

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
Daniel Bryan vs. Kurt Angle vs. The Miz vs. Sheamus vs. ??? vs. ???

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. John Morrison

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla vs. Michelle McCool (?)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***
 
#115 ·

*** PREVIEW ***
TARGET CENTER, MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA
MONDAY FEBRUARY 7TH, 2011


ORTON AND CENA HEADING FOR ELIMINATION CHAMBER!
After weeks, and months, of battles between the pair, John Cena and Randy Orton last week agreed – they would face each other one on one at the Elimination Chamber PPV in a battle to end the feud between the pair of them once and for all. With Cena desperate to concentrate on WrestleMania and his SMACKDOWN rivalries with most of the blue brand’s roster, he made the challenge last week when he visited RAW with the General Manager of SMACKDOWN, Michael Cole. In a shocking moment, Orton – unable to lay his hands on Cena as per the words of WWE owner, Chip Butty – RKO’d Cole to the delight of the WWE Universe to send a message to the Royal Rumble winner, Cena. However, there are sure to be consequences to Orton’s attack this week as Michael Cole has lodged an official complaint with Butty over the attack. Butty has already announced that both Orton and Cena will face ‘Pick your Poison Beat the Clock’ challenge matches on RAW and SMACKDOWN this week. Tonight, Cena will send one of the SMACKDOWN roster to RAW to face off against Orton. On Friday Night SMACKDOWN, Orton will send a member of the RAW roster to face Cena. The quickest winning time will result in that superstar choosing the match type for Cena and Orton’s clash at the PPV. Who will Orton face tonight? Can he get the win? And can he do it quickly?

JOHN MORRISON = NUMBER 1 CONTENDER!
After a hard fought battle last week, John Morrison managed to pin Kurt Angle and earned the right to challenge Wade Barrett for the WWE Championship in two weeks time at the Elimination Chamber event. Despite the claims of Wade Barrett that he will be a walkover, the popular Morrison is pumped up and ready for his shot at breaking out on RAW. Last week, Morrison claimed that Barrett did not deserve to be the WWE Champion and that he relied on Nexus to win him and retain him the WWE Championship. Barrett has not taken kindly to this and has responded on Twitter to these remarks:

@WadeBarrett
Morrison must be mad. I am the #WWE Champion because I am the best – not because of Nexus.
@WadeBarrett
@Justin__Gabriel: Beating you on #RAW last week proves that I am the better man. You won me the title? Ludicrous.
@WadeBarrett
#EliminationChamber will be the night that I prove that I am the #WWE Champion because I am the best.
Tonight, Morrison will be speaking out about his future WWE Championship match as he looks to show that he is worthy of a chance to challenge for the title. With Barrett annoyed with his comments, Morrison needs to keep an eye on his back – you never know when Nexus might be about to strike.

TWO SPOTS REMAIN IN THE RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH!
Last week, Shawn Michaels and Chip Butty attempted to finalise the RAW Elimination Chamber match – the winner will challenge for the WWE Championship – whoever the champion is – at WrestleMania 27. However, at the end of the night, only four spots had been filled: The Miz, Kurt Angle and Daniel Bryan, as a result of losing the Fatal Four Way with John Morrison, took the first three spots whilst Sheamus earned his place in the match with a decisive victory over RVD. Edge and Chris Jericho’s qualification match ended in a No Contest when Edge attacked Jericho before the match began and hit him with a Spear before Jericho returned it with a Codebreaker. Triple H was also given a chance to earn his spot in the Chamber match as he went into a Gauntlet Match against the other four members of Nexus other than Barrett. Despite beating the two big men in Skip Sheffield and Ezekiel Jackson, Heath Slater came out to assist David Otunga who pinned Triple H and ended his hopes – exactly what Wade Barrett wanted. Will Triple H, Edge and Chris Jericho be handed another chance to qualify for the Elimination Chamber tonight? Or will the two remaining spots be handed to others on the RAW roster?

TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS IN ACTION!
After their title defence on SMACKDOWN last week, the British Empire were confronted by two teams that they controversially disposed of in the Royal Rumble Tag Team Turmoil match – Cryme Tyme and the Hart Dynasty. Tonight, on RAW, one of those teams will be given the opportunity to get revenge – Hart Dynasty will face British Empire in a non-title match. With the new Tag Team Champions looking stronger each night, the Dynasty will have their work cut out if they are get a win but history is on their side – many of the storied Hart family have held Tag Team gold in the past including Bret “Hitman” Hart, Jim “Anvil” Neidhart and the late Owen Hart. A win tonight over the champions would surely push the Dynasty right into contention for a shot at the Tag Team Championships down the line. But can they get the job done tonight?

*** CONFIRMED ***

NON-TITLE TAG TEAM MATCH
British Empire (c) (w/Finlay) vs. Hart Dynasty (w/Natalya)

“BEAT THE CLOCK” CHALLENGE MATCH
Randy Orton vs. SMACKDOWN superstar of John Cena’s choice

ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING HANDICAP MATCH
Triple H vs. Joe Hennig & Percy Watson (w/Kurt Angle)

*** JOIN US THIS MONDAY FOR RAW! ***

========================================================



WWE SUPERSTARS
*** RESULTS ***

CRYME TYME vs. HUSKY HARRIS & MICHAEL TARVER
In their first match back in the WWE since their attack by, allegedly, the British Empire, at the Rumble, Shad and JTG overcame the efforts of Tarver and Harris to record a victory. Tarver and Harris dominated early but they couldn’t deal with the power of Shad and a top rope leg drop from JTG to Tarver proved decisive for the 3. Cryme Tyme will surely now be looking for revenge on the new Tag Team Champions?
WINNER: Cryme Tyme

BRIE BELLA vs. NATALYA
With the Divas Division on red alert from the arrival of Kharma by the side of Michelle McCool, Natalya got herself an important victory over Brie as she looks to make an impact and position herself for a future Divas Championship shot. The Sharpshooter was enough for Natalya to force the tap out from Brie and she now will watch the Elimination Chamber build with interest – will McCool be able to get her shot at the title at the Chamber? We know that Layla will challenge the champion, Maryse, but if McCool remains unbeaten on NXT over the coming weeks, she will enter the match and make it a Triple Threat too.
WINNER: Natalya

TEAM ANGLE 2 (w/Kurt Angle) vs. THE USOS
In their first ever WWE match as a team, Joe Hennig and Percy Watson were able to get a big win over the Usos to make the WWE take notice. With their mentor, Kurt Angle, beside the ring, Hennig and Watson were able to function well as a team to make up for the Uso’s experience advantage. However, as is often the case, Angle played a part where he shouldn’t. As Jey Uso moved up the ropes looking to put Hennig away, Angle caused a slight distraction to slow him down. Jey’s subsequent splash missed Hennig and he rolled him up to get the 3-count. Good first match together for Hennig and Watson, what does the future hold for them?
WINNER: Team Angle 2

TED DiBIASE vs. EVAN BOURNE
In the main event, DiBiase – who hinted before the match that he would be cashing in his right to a US Championship match very soon – edged out Evan Bourne in an even contest. The end of the match saw Bourne miss with an attempted 450 Splash and this allowed DiBiase to lock him up and hit Dream Street to get the 3-count. More momentum for DiBiase as he moves towards his chance against Justin Gabriel in the future.
WINNER: Ted DiBiase

========================================================


*** LATEST NEWS ***

WWE DRAFT MOVED: The annual WWE draft has been switched from the Bragging Rights PPV on the 22nd of May and will now take place in a 3-hour special RAW on Monday 11th April – the second RAW after WrestleMania 27. With many superstars moving around right now in the WWE, the WWE wishes to clarify things ahead of post-WrestleMania storylines and have opted to move the Draft to do this. No word yet on whether the Bragging Rights PPV will remain although tickets are due to go on sale for the Air Canada Center in Toronto next week. The draft is expected to see at least one big name moved to RAW; many people are speculating that SMACKDOWN is indeed the better show, as Michael Cole keeps telling us in the show, and Chip Butty wishes to spice things up on RAW to even up the balance.

THE ROCK & NXT: WWE hall of famer The Rock, a mentor on the NXT show, has been written off the show due to film commitments he has in Hollywood right now. On screen, SMACKDOWN commentator Mick Foley has replaced Rock while he recovers from an attack backstage. Rock is expected to return to NXT for the final build towards the NXT Final which is scheduled for WrestleMania 27. Our sources have been informed that the original plan for NXT saw Dolph Ziggler eliminated this week but backstage officials have been impressed with his recent work. Although his head is very much still on the chopping block, Ziggler could force himself into surviving NXT where MVP was eliminated last week. MVP’s contract with WWE was due to end after WrestleMania 27 and he will be released early as a result.

BUTTY PLEASED WITH IMPROVEMENTS TO TAG DIVISION, WORK STILL TO BE DONE WITH DIVAS: After a recent push (through NXT) of the Tag Team division, WWE owner Chip Butty is said to be happy with the small steps of improvement being made with the Tag Team Division and is thought to be very happy with the impact of the British Empire since their arrival on the scene. Expect a long title run from them and possibly a WrestleMania match – a thought that would have been unthinkable just a few weeks ago. Butty concedes privately that more is still needed though to focus not just on the title picture and he has challenged the likes of the Usos, the Hart Dynasty and Cryme Tyme to step up their game in the coming weeks. As far as the Divas Division goes, Butty believes that more work is needed. The introduction of Kharma as Michelle McCool’s bodyguard has received mixed reviews but she is expected to begin competing post Elimination Chamber. Big changes are expected for the Divas, initially via NXT, but Butty is adamant that each RAW and SMACKDOWN will eventually feature at least one Divas match as well as a Tag Team match. We’ll see how that works out!

WRESTLEMANIA 27: The main events of WrestleMania 27 are being kept close to the chest of WWE officials with pure speculation the only thing going round right now. One man who can be counted out of the WrestleMania picture is Kane who was written off TV for a few months on SMACKDOWN last week when he lost the Buried Alive match. This should give Kane, Glenn Jacobs, time to recover some small, niggling injuries as well as making a chance for a big return down the line. The Undertaker is now being advertised at every SMACKDOWN show up to WrestleMania as he returns to a full time schedule in the build up to the show. WWE have confirmed that there will be no new arrivals to the company in the lead up to WrestleMania although there could be some surprise appearances. The event in Atlanta is now officially sold out and is expected to feature SMACKDOWN’s John Cena in the last match, the ‘main’ main event. Question is, who will he be facing?

RELEASES FROM THE WWE: Lords of Pain understands that – as well as the five superstars from NXT – five WWE superstars have been released early from their contracts. These five guys are: Caylen Croft, Darren Young, Yoshi Tatsu, Chris Masters and Luke Gallows. With much expected from several up and coming talents – such as Tyler Reks, Damien Sandow, Brodus Clay and Jinder Mahal – and the signing of Mexican sensation Sin Cara, expect to see several debuts on RAW and SMACKDOWN during the summer to replace the stars released.​
 
#116 ·
February 7th, 2011: RAW



MONDAY NIGHT RAW LIVE
TARGET CENTER, MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA
MONDAY FEBRUARY 7TH, 2011


A video package from RAW last week airs with highlights of the Fatal Four Way match between Kurt Angle, Miz, Daniel Bryan and John Morrison battling it out to try and earn the right to challenge Wade Barrett for the WWE Championship at the Elimination Chamber PPV. Big moves of the four men involved are shown before we see Angle hitting the Angle Slam on Daniel Bryan to seemingly win the contest. However, we then see Triple H coming down to the ring to cause the distraction and cost the Olympian is chance to win the match. We then see Morrison surprising Angle with the Chuck Kick before rolling him up ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! John Morrison is going to challenge for the WWE Championship! The video moves on to show Chip Butty announcing Triple H’s chance to qualify for the Elimination Chamber match – if he can beat all four members of Nexus in a Gauntlet match. Highlights of this match are shown as we see Hunter hit the Pedigree on Skip Sheffield for the win before Ezekiel Jackson loses via DQ when Sheffield smashes Triple H with a chair to the back. We then see Hunter mounting a comeback against David Otunga until Heath Slater shoves the referee out of the ring to assist Otunga with doing more damage to Hunter. The revived referee is shown counting the 1 ... 2 ... 3 on Hunter and then the look of anger in the Game’s eyes before the video moves on. We see Randy Orton being warned by HBK to not touch Cena, we then see Orton heading out to the ring where Cena is stood. Snippets of the challenge from Cena to face Orton, one more time, one last time, at Elimination Chamber are played before we see Orton accept the challenge and then hits the RKO to SMACKDOWN General Manager, Michael Cole. The video ends with the ice cold eyes of Orton staring through the ropes towards Cena as RAW is about to begin ...

*** BURN IT TO THE GROUND ***

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***



JIM ROSS:
We are live, ladies and gentlemen, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, thirteen days away from the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view on the Road to WrestleMania 27. We’re here with Monday Night RAW and, King, what a show it is going to be!

JERRY LAWLER:
You’re right about that, JR! The pressure is building on the RAW superstars as they jockey for position heading towards the last major stop on the Road to WrestleMania – Elimination Chamber!

JIM ROSS:
And tonight, King, Chip Butty, the WWE owner, has made a match – it will be a 2 on 1 Handicap Match as Team Angle 2, Joe Hennig and Percy Watson, face Triple H – if the Game can get the win tonight, he will qualify for the RAW Elimination Chamber match and the chance to secure a place in the WWE Championship match at WrestleMania!

JERRY LAWLER:
Every single RAW superstar is desperate to main event WrestleMania, JR!

*** AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE ***

*** JOHN MORRISON ***
#1 CONTENDER FOR THE WWE CHAMPIONSHIP

JIM ROSS:
And this man right here King has a great opportunity to do just that!

The slo-mo entrance of Morrison goes ahead as the brightly coloured pyro explodes behind the Number 1 contender, Morrison holds up his arm to cheers from the WWE Universe as he stands wearing a long coat and shades. Morrison makes his way towards the ring to a good reception as he looks delighted to have the chance to go to Elimination Chamber and challenge for the WWE Championship – his first opportunity at the WWE’s main gold. As Morrison enters the ring, JR and King discuss his chances of victory at the Chamber PPV whilst Morrison salutes the fans. They believe that Morrison needs to find a way to eliminate Nexus ahead of the PPV if he is to stand any chance at all. Morrison has taken a microphone and he stands centrally in the ring as his music fades, we are going to hear from the Number 1 contender here ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Wow! Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship! Yeah!

Nice pop from the WWE Universe here in Minneapolis.

JOHN MORRISON:
Growing up, the WWE Championship was everything I ever wanted. When I broke into the business, I knew I wanted to get to the WWE! When I got to the WWE, I set my sights on winning the WWE Championship. Everything I have done since I arrived here in the WWE has been about getting myself to this position here right now ...

More cheers for Morrison as he certainly appears to be excited about the opportunity he has earned for himself ...

JOHN MORRISON:
In two weeks time, I head to Detroit for the Elimination Chamber with a chance to write my name in the history books – a chance to win the WWE Championship and a chance to earn the right to head to Atlanta, Georgia, for WrestleMania 27 ... as the WWE Champion!

More cheers from the WWE Universe as Morrison’s determination to headline WrestleMania is clear ...

JOHN MORRISON:
WrestleMania 27 ... I’ve dreamed about WrestleMania, I’ve dreamt of headlining it, of raising the WWE Championship high above my head and hearing the WWE Universe cheer ... (More cheers) ... but to do that, I need to overcome Wade Barrett ... and Nexus.

Boos for the mention of the Nexus ...

JOHN MORRISON:
If I am to win the WWE Championship, I will need to somehow find a way to not only beat Barrett but to beat four other men. We all saw what happened at Survivor Series. We all saw what happened at Vengeance. We’ve all seen what happens on RAW most weeks and we all saw what happened to Triple H at the Rumble. The fact of the matter is ...

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** NEXUS ***
WWE Champion Wade Barrett
Ezekiel Jackson
David Otunga
Skip Sheffield
Heath Slater

Boos erupt around the arena as the WWE Champion, accompanied as ever by his group, heads out for the ring carrying a microphone in one hand and raising his fist in the air with the other. The WWE Championship gleams around the waist of Barrett as he saunters across the stage, ignoring the jeers, before he signals for his music to be faded.

WADE BARRETT:
Morrison, I advise you to shut up. I advise you to shut up ... now!

Morrison scowls at Barrett as he looks from the ring up the ramp where Nexus are slowly heading towards him. Barrett puts his finger to his lips and signals to Morrison to be quiet once more.

WADE BARRETT:
I stopped you there, Morrison, before you said something that you might live to regret. You see, you were about to tell us all what the fact of the matter is. Well, I thought I would come out and finish it for you. (Morrison looks unimpressed) You see, Morrison, the fact of the matter is ... I am just better than you.

Huge boos for this statement – what a claim from Wade Barrett!

WADE BARRETT:
I am better than you, I am better than Triple H, I am better than Kurt Angle, I am better than Randy Orton, I am better than anybody else here on RAW and that, that Morrison, is why I am the WWE Champion.

A glance behind Barrett between Jackson and Sheffield ...

WADE BARRETT:
You see, I know what you claimed last week. You claimed that without these four men behind me, without Justin Gabriel, I would not be the WWE Champion. You could not be further from the truth, Morrison. These men here stand behind me and they know their role in the Nexus. They know that I am the best in the WWE, they know that I deserve to be the WWE Champion.

More raised eyebrows behind Barrett – it appears that he isn’t speaking the complete truth right now!

WADE BARRETT:
I am the leader of the Nexus, Morrison, because I have earned their respect. I won NXT, I earned these men’s respect and they follow my lead as we dominate RAW and the WWE. Without them, would I be WWE Champion? Of course I would be. But I am thankful for the support they give me as I look to shut people like you up.

Barrett and Nexus are now stood at the foot of the ramp. Barrett orders Nexus’ four members to make their way around the ring – Jackson, Otunga, Sheffield and Slater spread out on all four sides – before Barrett steps up the ring steps and through the ropes. He now stands opposite Morrison who is eying the Nexus around the ring with a wary look in his eye. JR and King suggest he needs to get out of there as soon as he can.

WADE BARRETT:
You see, Morrison, I have done in six months what you couldn’t do in six years. I have won the big one, I am the WWE Champion. I will be the WWE Champion at WrestleMania, I will be the WWE Champion for a long time. At Elimination Chamber, Morrison, it will be a walk in the park. I don’t need Nexus to beat you. Nexus will be with me for support only ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Is that a fact?

Barrett looks annoyed by the interruption.

JOHN MORRISON:
Why don’t you back up that claim then, Wade? If you don’t need Nexus, why don’t you prove it? Come out to the ring at Elimination Chamber, come out and face me like a man. One on one?

Barrett smirks once more and laughs in Morrison’s face.

WADE BARRETT:
Is there something wrong with your ears? I’ve just told you, I don’t need Nexus but they will want to be out there to support their leader and I am not going to stop them from doing that.

The camera catches David Otunga looking a little annoyed about something as he narrows his eyes whilst looking into the ring ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Wade, if you are the leader that you say you are, why don’t we do something about this? How about a match tonight?

Cheers from the WWE Universe.

JOHN MORRISON:
How about we have ourselves a match tonight? I’ll find four guys backstage that are willing to team with me to face you and your Nexus here tonight? And if I win, Wade, Nexus are barred from ringside at the Elimination Chamber!

Cheers for this idea, Barrett smirks at it.

WADE BARRETT:
Do you think that will help your chances, Morrison? Trust me, it won’t. I accept your challenge ... (Morrison smiles) ... on one condition!

Morrison’s expression changes slightly as he waits for Barrett to explain ...

WADE BARRETT:
You see, Morrison, Elimination Chamber will be a walk in the park for me. The only danger for me at the Chamber will be injury before WrestleMania 27. The only thing easier than facing you ... would be to have the night off.

Boos and jeers for the comments of Barrett ...

WADE BARRETT:
So, that is the deal, Morrison. If you and your team win, Nexus is barred from ringside. If Nexus win ... you join Nexus and you forfeit the match to me at the Chamber.

Morrison looks angry over the condition but he nods his head ...

JOHN MORRISON:
You’re on, Wade. I will find a team and we will beat you tonight. When tonight is over, Nexus will play no part in our match at the Chamber. And your title, Wade, your title will be in more danger than it has ever been.

Cheers for the determined words of Morrison, can he find a team to banish Nexus from the ring tonight?

WADE BARRETT:
I don’t think so, Morrison. You see, Nexus are more united than ever. Tonight, the Nexus gets a new member ... and I get the night off in two weeks time. Because, Morrison ... (Boos echo around the arena as Barrett looks out to the four men on the four different sides of the ring) ... you’re either Nexus ...

Wade Barrett smirks and beckons the four men to enter the ring; all four of them step up onto the apron and the situation becomes increasingly threatening for the Number 1 contender ...

WADE BARRETT:
... or you’re against us.

Jackson, Otunga, Sheffield and Slater step through the ropes and advance towards Morrison in the middle of the ring as Barrett steps back and drops through the ropes and out of the ring. He laughs as he stands at the foot of the ropes looking up at Morrison who is backing away with a look of worry on his face. However, loud cheers alert us to the presence of somebody else in the arena ...


Carlito, former Nexus member Justin Gabriel and RVD storm down the ramp, past Wade Barrett and slide into the ring sending Nexus scattering. Morrison, in fighting stance ready to take on Nexus, looks relieved to see them and he embraces them as they watch Nexus join Barrett on the ramp. It appears we have four of Team Morrison sorted out – Carlito, US Champion Justin Gabriel and RVD. Nexus back away up the ramp with a look of annoyance on their faces, Barrett in particular. As JR and King remind us, it will be Morrison and four others to face Nexus in a huge Tag Team match – if Team Morrison win, Nexus are barred from ringside at the Elimination Chamber; if Nexus win, Morrison will join Nexus and then forfeit the match at the Elimination Chamber. King says that he hopes Morrison knows what he is doing!

The camera switches backstage where we see Kofi Kingston, all smiles as usual, walking through the backstage area. The SMACKDOWN superstar, the ‘2010 Breakout Star’ here in the WWE, is here tonight for a match – is he the man that John Cena has sent to face Randy Orton in the ‘Beat the Clock’ challenge tonight? JR invites us all to find out after the break!


*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

*** VOICES ***

*** RANDY ORTON ***

The crowd erupt as the ‘Viper’ himself walks out with a look of determination etched on his face. Slowly, he makes his way towards the ring as JR and King discuss last week’s challenge from John Cena – one last match between the pair of them at Elimination Chamber. JR runs us through the deal for this week’s Beat the Clock challenge. John Cena will send a member of the SMACKDOWN roster to RAW to face Orton, Orton will send a member of the RAW roster to SMACKDOWN to face Cena. Whoever wins their match in the quickest time, that man will get to choose the match type for the match at the Elimination Chamber, a massive chance to swing the advantage towards them. JR and King speculate over who might be coming out to face Orton – will it be Kofi Kingston? Orton salutes the crowd in the ring with his ‘Destiny’ pose before standing to await the SMACKDOWN star he will face tonight ...

*** CRANK IT UP ***

*** BIG SHOW ***

There is a collective gasp as out steps the Big Show and Orton looks passive as he awaits the World’s Largest Athlete. JR and King hype up the difficulty of the challenge that Orton will face here – how do you quickly beat the Big Show? Show approaches the ring looking confident of defeating the Viper tonight. JR reminds us that Show is preparing for a big match of his own at the Elimination Chamber as he participates in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match for the World Championship of CM Punk that was confirmed on last Friday night’s SMACKDOWN ...


Show stares up at Orton in the ring who has no fear on his face – he knows the size of the task but also knows he can win it. Show enters the ring and limbers up in preparation before the referee signals for the bell ...


SINGLES MATCH – BEAT THE CLOCK CHALLENGE
BIG SHOW vs. RANDY ORTON


Orton, desperate for a win as soon as possible, goes on the attack from the start and he knocks Show off guard early with his fast start. Although Show tries to counter with some of his power moves, he cannot hold Orton down for long and the Viper appears inspired with the thought of a big match with Cena coming up at the Elimination Chamber PPV. Despite the weight of Show, Orton manages to catch his opponent coming through the ropes and he hits – although not with his legs hanging on the ropes – a DDT that crashes Show’s skull into the mat. It is beginning to look academic here for the Viper and he begins to pound the mat waiting ... waiting ... RKO! ORTON HITS THE RKO! Quick as he can, Orton pounces and hooks the leg ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
RANDY ORTON (4:43) via pinfall
Orton looks tired as he rolls away and out of the ring to stand near the announce table but a smile passes over his face as he looks up at the time of 4:43 showing on the titantron and nods his head. He is clearly pleased with the time and the referee raises his hand in victory as JR and King suggest that Cena will do well to beat any member of the RAW roster in less than 4 minutes and 43 seconds. Show looks angry but he exits the ring and begins to walk away up the ramp while Orton steps back into the ring and salutes the crowd ...

???:
Can I have your attention please?

Boos and jeers erupt around the arena as the SMACKDOWN General Manager Michael Cole steps out onto the stage. He has a quiet word with Big Show who stops and stays beside Cole – clearly, Cole wants protection here tonight after last week. Cole is ready to speak to Orton ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Orton, you listen to me for a moment. Minneapolis, be quiet for a moment, give me some respect and listen to what I’ve got to say!

Boos again for Cole as he demands silence from the WWE Universe.

MICHAEL COLE:
Last week, Orton, you put your hands on me and you hit me with an RKO for no good reason. Let’s take a look ...

Cheers for the mention of the RKO last week as footage rolls showing the unprovoked attack from Orton to the SMACKDOWN General Manager ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Orton, the attack was unprovoked, there was no reason for it. Because you’d be banned from striking Cena, you thought that you could attack me? What planet are you on, Orton? What made you think that I would allow you to attack me like that?

Orton is listening to Cole with a look of disdain on his face – he would clearly like to RKO him once more as well. Cole points to himself and then resumes his verbal tirade against the Viper ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Let me tell you something, Orton. Nobody touches Michael Cole. Nobody puts their hands on me. I am the greatest General Manager in WWE history and I do not deserve to be subjected to violence in the way you did last week. So, tonight, I am here to speak to WWE owner Chip Butty to complain about your RKO last week. (Jeers erupt around the arena) I have told you all to be quiet, Minneapolis.

More boos from the crowd as Cole again demands their silence – unsuccessfully.

MICHAEL COLE:
Now, Orton, I have spoken to Chip Butty and he wants to punish you right here, right now, tonight. But I pleaded with him and he agreed that I could speak to you first. He agreed that if you co-operated with me, I could drop the complaint instead. However, if you choose not to co-operate ...

Cole steps into the ring as Big Show waits on the outside of the ring and watches intently.

MICHAEL COLE:
It’s a simple question, Orton. Answer it and the complaint is dropped. Refuse and the punishment will stand.

Orton has a microphone now as he prepares ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Orton, I want you to tell me ... who are you sending to SMACKDOWN on Friday night to face John Cena?

Boos for the question asked, Orton smirks at Cole incredulously, he can’t believe what Cole is asking him. Cole looks at Orton expectantly waiting for the answer ...

RANDY ORTON:
You mean that you are serious? That’s the question? (Cole nods his head) Cole, I don’t care what complaint you have against me. You can go back to SMACKDOWN, you can tell Cena that he can wait until Friday night and then he can prepare for the Elimination Chamber where he is going to get the biggest beatdown on his life. You can tell Cena that when I see him at the Chamber pay-per-view, I am intent on destroying his WrestleMania dream, once and for all, with a devastating ... R ... K ... O!

Cheers echo around the arena for Orton’s words as Cole looks furious that his plan has not worked.

MICHAEL COLE:
Is that it then? You’d rather take the punishment?

Orton laughs in Cole’s face, he does not fear anything that Cole might do.

MICHAEL COLE:
In that case, Orton, let me inform you of the punishment that Chip Butty has decreed ... (Cole looks up at the titantron which still dispays 4:43 as the time for Cena to beat on SMACKDOWN later this week) ... Nice time, Orton. It’s a shame that the punishment that Chip Butty has decided means that ...

Cole smirks at Orton whose smile falters a little ...

MICHAEL COLE:
... the time that Cena now has to beat is 14 minutes and 43 seconds.

Boos echo around the arena, Chip Butty has punished Orton by adding ten minutes to his time. Orton kicks the ropes in frustration and then stares at Cole with a look of longing in his eyes. Cole backs away fearing the worst ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Hold it there, Orton. Hold it there! You don’t want to do that!

Cole stumbles backwards and then falls over and lands on his ass dropping the microphone on the mat. Into the ring comes Big Show behind Orton as he stalks Cole ... Show spins Orton round ... CHOKE SLAM! BIG SHOW CHOKE SLAMS ORTON! Cole looks relieved as he rolls out of the ring and Big Show follows him. Cole is delighted with the actions of Show now and they back away up the ramp smiling. JR and King suggest that whoever Orton chooses from RAW, there is a good chance that Cena will beat that person in 14 minutes and 43 seconds as RAW heads into a commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with the RAW General Manager shown in his office looking left and then right. As the camera pans out, we see that HBK is stood in the middle of two RAW superstars who were supposed to face each other last week – Chris Jericho and Edge. Jericho is fuming as he focuses completely on Edge; the Rated R Superstar’s focus flicks between Jericho and the GM. Michaels holds his hands up to keep the two of them apart and then speaks ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
OK, guys, listen to me and listen good because I am not going to accept a repeat of last week. I have two spots remaining in the Elimination Chamber match in two weeks and, tonight, one of you is going to fill those spots. You see, I am making a tag team match tonight and it will be you, Chris Jericho, teaming with Daniel Bryan to face you, Edge ...

A frosty atmosphere between Edge and HBK as he turns his head to look that way ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
... and your partner, Sheamus. If your team wins, Jericho, you will qualify for the Chamber. Edge, if your team wins, you qualify. I want it to be a fair contest, I want you to respect the rules and I want you to get this sorted tonight. Do you understand me?

HBK looks alternately at both men who semi acknowledge the proclamation of HBK ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
That’s fine by me, Michaels. Tonight, I get the win I need, in front of all the Jericholics watching, and I qualify for the Elimination Chamber. The fact that I get to give you a beating, junior ... (Jericho smirks at Edge) ... will be a bonus.

Edge chuckles as Jericho exits the General Manager’s office but the camera stays with him as he looks at Shawn Michaels ...

EDGE:
You know what, Shawn? It’s about time you recognised what a talent you have here on RAW in myself. You force me to qualify for everything when you should just place me in the matches to start with. At the Rumble, I know I proved myself to you but you can’t accept that can you? Why don’t you cut out the stubborn attitude and just accept that I am the biggest star on RAW right now?

HBK smiles at Edge ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Edge, as ever, big words. You seem to forget that at the Rumble, it was me that eliminated you. Remember? (Cheers from the crowd as they recall this but Edge looks angered by this reminder) Now, I don’t need to explain myself to you and I told you weeks ago that I wouldn’t explain myself to you. If you don’t like my decisions, that it tough. I’m the General Manager around here and what I say goes ...

HBK’s attention is turned towards somebody else who walks into the room – WWE owner Chip Butty is here again tonight! He simply pauses for a second and then nods his head in greeting to Michaels before moving past as Edge turns and leaves. The camera focuses on HBK as he looks thoughtful before returning to the ring in time for the arrival of the participants of the next match ...

*** NEW FOUNDATION ***

*** HART DYNASTY ***
David Hart Smith
Tyson Kidd
(w/Natalya)

A good pop for the Hart Dynasty as they head out towards the ring ready for action here tonight with Natalya by their sides as normal. The former Tag Team Champions make their way into the ring and salute the crowd before Kidd takes a microphone and it appears that he has something to say here before their match.

TYSON KIDD:
Back at the Royal Rumble, we were robbed out of our opportunity to win the Tag Team Championships when we were attacked by Finlay during the British Empire’s entrance ...

A replay of Finlay hitting Kidd in the knee with the flag and then jamming it into the stomach of Hart Smith is shown before we see Kidd then tapping out to the Regal Stretch moments later ...

TYSON KIDD:
Now, David and I took a couple of weeks off after that attack but now we’re back. We realise that Cryme Tyme also have issues with the Empire but tonight we are going to show that we are the ones who deserve to challenge for the titles. Tonight, we beat the Empire and get our shots at the Tag Team Championships.

JR informs us that this is not officially a match to determine a Number 1 contender but King reminds us that a win over the champions always gets you noticed and should lead to a title match down the line.

*** RULE BRITTANNIA ***

*** BRITISH EMPIRE ***
Mason Ryan
William Regal
(w/Finlay) | Tag Team Champions

Finlay waves the Union Jack flag as the Empire head out to the ring proudly wearing their Tag Team Championships around their waists. Ryan leads the way and he looks ready for a brawl here tonight but Regal hangs back a little, an air of suspicion in his eyes, a look of annoyance. As the Empire step through the ropes, boos echo around the arena, the Empire are already well disliked by the WWE Universe, and they have words with the Dynasty who look pumped up and ready to go here tonight. Regal discusses things with Ryan and they agree to Regal starting the match whilst David Hart Smith is going to start for the Dynasty ...

TAG TEAM MATCH (Non-Title)
BRITISH EMPIRE (w/Finlay) vs. HART DYNASTY


With the Dynasty desperate for a win to get them right in the frame for a shot at the Tag Team Championships, they start out fast and take control of the match early. However, with some distraction from Finlay outside the ring, the Empire get on top and the muscle of Mason Ryan keeps them in control as he begins to cut Tyson Kidd off from his partner and corner. Quick tags between Regal and Ryan allow them to remain fresh but Kidd cannot get away from them to make the tag. However, Kidd’s quick feet do allow him to counter when Regal looks for a suplex and David Hart Smith is able to get the hot tag that brings the Dynasty back into the match. Hart Smith runs through Regal with some heavy hitting shoulder blocks before he knocks Ryan to the floor as well. Finlay looks to cause more distraction as he leaps onto the apron but Tyson Kidd spots him and catches him with a Roundhouse kick that sends him spinning back off the apron. Hart Smith lifts Regal up in the air so that his head, shoulders and chest are exposed so that Kidd can hit a springboard dropkick that crashes Regal down to the mat. Hart Smith grabs the legs of the Tag Team Champion and the crowd get to their feet as they prepare to see the Sharpshooter ... However, Finlay and Ryan are up and they manage to drag Regal out of the ring to safety. To the disgust of the crowd, the Champions begin to back away up the ramp with Finlay carrying their Tag Team belts with him. Jeers and boos echo around the arena as the referee begins the count and reaches 5 with no sign of the Empire returning ... 6 ... Kidd wants to go out and fetch them but the referee holds both the Dynasty boys back ... 7 ... Regal waves his hand to dismiss the chances of returning to the ring ...

** 8 **
** 9 **
** 10 **

WINNER:
HART DYNASTY (5:17) via countout
The crowd boo as the Empire back away up the ramp and take the easy way out of the match rather than fight the Dynasty who look on frustrated in the ring. Kidd and Hart Smith drop down through the ropes and stand at the foot of the ramp as they watch the Tag Team Champions on the stage heading away from them.

*** BRINGIN’ DA HOOD T U ***

*** CRYME TYME ***
JTG
Shad

The Empire look behind them with a look of concern as Cryme Tyme appear on stage with grinning faces as they sandwich the champions. Regal and Finlay look worried and they drag Ryan with them as they look to find a safe spot away from the two teams who desperately want their chance to win the Tag Team Championships from them. As Cryme Tyme and the Dynasty move in on them, the Empire decide to cut their losses and they rush off towards the side of the stage and escape the attention of the two teams who are left on the stage looking to each other. The referee – carrying the Tag Team Championships – is left stood between them as the champions have made their exits. As Cryme Tyme and the Dynasty look to each other, JTG grabs one of the belts from the referee and holds up in a symbolic gesture towards Hart Smith and Kidd. Kidd grabs the other belt and he raises it high too – clearly, both teams want their shots and want them very soon.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with Jim Ross and King at the announce table looking into the camera ...

JIM ROSS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, we are now moving down the ‘Road to WrestleMania’ and, King, it is that time of year again. The time of year where the WWE looks to honour the best in the history of the business ...

King nods his head in agreement ...

JERRY LAWLER:
You know, JR, I accomplished a lot here in the WWE and with other wrestling promotions around the world but my proudest ever moment was when I was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.

JIM ROSS:
I echo those sentiments, King, I am proud to say that I am a WWE Hall of Famer.

The camera zooms in on the hands of JR and King that proudly display their WWE Hall of Fame rings that they are wearing tonight. The camera zooms back out as JR continues ...

JIM ROSS:
So, King, as we begin the long road down towards Atlanta, Georgia and WrestleMania 27, as we grow more and more excited over the matches we are going to witness when we get there, it’s time to find out just who will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame the night before WrestleMania 27 as an inductee of the ‘Class of 2011’ ...

JERRY LAWLER:
There are many suggestions over who could go in the Hall of Fame, JR, the fact is though, those that do need to have done that little bit extra for the business to set themselves apart. Less than 100 people have been inducted so far.

JIM ROSS:
The prestigious first inductee to the WWE Hall of Fame is to be announced right now, King. Here to announce it is the WWE owner ... Chip Butty.

*** POPPIHOLLA ***

*** CHIP BUTTY ***
Owner of the WWE

Butty makes his way out – to a degree of heat – but he looks serious here tonight, there is no taunting of the crowd and he is holding a microphone as the WWE Hall of Fame logo appears on the titantron. The crowd, intelligently, realise that this is not Butty out here to taunt them, wind them up or to play the bad guy, this is Butty out here to announce the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame ... Butty steps into the ring and smiles as the camera focuses in on him.

CHIP BUTTY:
You know, guys, I’ve been in charge of the WWE for just over four months and I’ve seen a lot of things happen so far. It’s a job I’ve always dreamed of and it’s something that I’ve found to be a hell of a lot more difficult than I could have ever imagined. Yet, tonight, I have the pleasure of announcing the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame for 2011.

Applause for Butty from the fans ...

CHIP BUTTY:
When I bought the WWE back in September, I bought it from a man who I can only describe as a ‘legend’ ...

Cheers from the crowd as they realise early who this is going to be ...

CHIP BUTTY:
So let us find out right now ... the first inductee of the ‘Class of 2011’ in the WWE Hall of Fame is going to be ...

Attention turns towards the titantron and the video that is about to play ...



As the video ends, the first inductee of the ‘Class of 2011’ is confirmed on the titantron ...


*** VINCE McMAHON ***

Appreciation is shown from the WWE Universe as they applaud and cheer and there is even a ‘Thank You, Vince!’ chant that goes up. Butty allows the applause and cheering to continue but when it fades, he begins to speak again ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Ladies and Gentlemen, let me run down some of this man’s accomplishments here in the WWE ... Vince McMahon was involved in the wrestling industry from 1969 when he helped his father, Vince McMahon Senior, to establish the WWWF as an announcer and as a promoter. He was the man responsible for the infamous match between the great Muhammad Ali ...(Huge cheers for Ali) ... and Antonio Inoki. Vince McMahon took control of the World Wrestling Federation and established it as a global product throughout the 1980’s as the business boomed, he created an event that has become the biggest event in the history of wrestling ... WrestleMania.

Cheers for the mention of Vince’s WrestleMania creation ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Between 1982 and 2011, Vince McMahon transformed the image of wrestling and oversaw the star power of greats like Hulk Hogan ... (Huge pop) ... Andre the Giant ... (Huge pop) ... Macho Man Randy Savage ... (Huge pop) ... Bret “The Hitman” Hart ... (Huge pop) Shawn Michaels ... (Huge pop) ... and The Rock ... (Huge pop) Vince McMahon adapted the WWF for different times and different eras, he saw it through a change of name and he became a millionaire of a multi-national company. The WWE is what it is today because of the business acumen of Vince McMahon!

More cheers ...

CHIP BUTTY:
However, Vince McMahon is not just a legendary businessman. He is also a legend out here, in the ring and at the announce table, he brought us Mr. McMahon, the owner of the company, the two time World Champion ... and the winner of the 1999 Royal Rumble. Mr. McMahon squared off against the greatest in the world at WrestleMania and, despite not being a professionally trained wrestler, he always delivered on the biggest stage. He was the larger than life evil Mr. McMahon, the man who fired legends, the man who forced people to kiss his ass and the man that had perhaps the greatest feud of all time here in the WWE ...



The video ends and there is a deafening applause in the arena ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is an honour and privilege to announce that the prestigious first inductee in the ‘Class of 2011’ for the WWE Hall of Fame will be ... VINCE McMAHON!

Huge cheers from the WWE Universe, a worthy pick for the Hall of Fame it seems ... RAW heads into another commercial with the ‘Thank You, Vince!’ chant echoing around the arena here in Minneapolis tonight ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with the camera following chaos backstage here in the arena. We see two SMACKDOWN superstars out backstage – Big Show and Kofi Kingston and they are being restrained by security after it appears that an argument has begun. JR informs us that Big Show tried to assault Kofi but the Ghanaian managed to duck the shot and then he responded by laying into Show, the man who he has had numerous issues with recently. As the security continue to try and restrain them, Kofi taunts Show ...

KOFI KINGSTON:
Look at you, man! You’re a complete failure, a loser. You’re here on RAW, hand picked by John Cena and Michael Cole, you go out there to try and destroy Randy Orton and you get beat in less than five minutes?

Show roars in frustration at the words of Kofi and again tries to break through the security but he can’t ...

KOFI KINGSTON:
Face it, Show, you’re past your best! You like to throw your weight around and intimidate people but it’s not working no more. You can’t get the job done no more. It’ll be the same at the Elimination Chamber, typical Big Show ...

Kofi is laughing as he openly mocks Show now with the crowd laughing along with him here.

KOFI KINGSTON:
You’ll come out to the ring, you’ll roar a lot, you’ll throw a punch or two ... and then you’ll lose. Typical Big Show. And you know what, Show? This time, when you’re in the back, defeated and beaten again, I’ll still be in the ring, the last man to survive ... and I’ll become the new World Heavyweight Champion!

More roars of frustration from Show as Kofi voluntarily begins to move away as the camera focuses on the irate face of Show, Kofi has just wound him up big time here. As the camera focuses on his face, King questions whether that was a wise move from Kofi considering that he still has a match to come later tonight when he goes one on one with the RAW Money in the Bank contract holder, The Miz. The camera returns to the ring and it is time for the next match of the evening ...

*** METALINGUS ***

*** EDGE ***

As his pyro explodes behind him, the opinionated Rated R Superstar paces towards the ring ready for action in a tag team match here tonight. JR reminds us that Edge is relying upon his partner, Sheamus, to help him succeed and qualify for the RAW Elimination Chamber match at the expense of Chris Jericho, one of his opponents tonight. Edge poses in the ring as the crowd boo him, they are not with him tonight ...

*** WRITTEN IN MY FACE ***

*** SHEAMUS ***
(w/Hornswoggle)

The jeers and boos remain, possibly intensify, as the Celtic Warrior heads out onto the stage with the pint-sized troll, Hornswoggle, at his feet. After the past few months, in which Sheamus has elevated himself into the upper card here on RAW with controversial wins over Triple H, there are many people who fear that, according to JR, the Irishman could well get the win at the Elimination Chamber and secure himself a spot in the main event WWE Championship match at WrestleMania 27. Sheamus pounds at his chest once he enters the ring with Hornswoggle cheering him before he looks towards Edge and the two of them nod to each other in agreement as they prepare to greet their opposition here tonight ...

*** BREAK THE WALLS DOWN ***

*** CHRIS JERICHO ***

Explosions signal the arrival of Y2J, the rock star, as he heads out towards the ring also looking to secure his place in the Chamber match in two weeks. Jericho looks pumped up as replays of Edge’s attack last week are shown before his comeback Codebreaker is also shown. As the camera returns to the ring, Jericho pauses on the ring steps and turns to wait for his partner tonight ...

*** RIDE OF THE VALKYRIES ***

*** DANIEL BRYAN ***

Here comes the American Dragon, Daniel Bryan! A nice pop for Bryan as he sidesteps towards the ring pointing up to the ceiling, he looks positive about this match as well. As he approaches the ring, Bryan stares at Sheamus with a look of annoyance in his eyes – replays of Sheamus’ attack on him after Bryan beat Sheamus two weeks ago are shown. JR and King discuss the chances of Daniel Bryan as he faces Sheamus in the RAW Elimination Chamber match in thirteen days time – can Bryan upset the odds again and earn a shot at the WWE Championship at WrestleMania?

TAG TEAM MATCH – whichever team wins, Edge or Jericho to qualify for RAW Elimination Chamber match
CHRIS JERICHO & DANIEL BRYAN vs. EDGE & SHEAMUS (w/Hornswoggle)


Good tag team match that – for the early stages at least – keeps the main feuds separated as much as possible – Jericho and Edge are separate, so are Sheamus and Bryan. Sheamus’ power helps him begin to dominate over Jericho in the ring but the wily veteran is not as easy to keep down as he might appear and he is able to frustrate the big Celtic Warrior at every turn as he counters and reverses situations to keep himself in the match – a match he needs to win to qualify for the Chamber match. When Sheamus finally catches Y2J with an Irish Curse backbreaker, Edge suddenly wants to get involved and he makes a tag to come in after Jericho who he has had issues with recently. Edge hits the Edgeocution to Y2J but when he goes for the cover, he only manages to get a 2 count. Frustrated, Edge moves back and signals for his finisher – the Spear. The crowd chant for Y2J but he is getting up and is going to turn right into it despite the warnings of his partner, Bryan. Edge rushes across the ring but Jericho dodges and Edge eats the turnbuckle as Jericho dives over and makes the tag to Bryan. In comes Daniel with a running drop kick in the corner before he hits a forearm to knock Sheamus down as well to heighten the tension between those two further. Bryan connects with a German Suplex to Edge and holds on for a 2 count before a series of devastating kicks to the side of the head and shoulders put Edge down once more. Bryan is hot here and he tries to go for the Le Bell Lock but Edge is too strong and he resists and gets to the ropes. Reversing a whip to the ropes, Edge sends Bryan back first into the turnbuckle and goes running in after him ... Bryan gets the knees up and staggers Edge back again before slamming him down to the mat and heading for the top rope. Bryan dives off and hits a perfect Diving Headbutt before hooking the leg ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Edge kicks out at the last second. However, Bryan is not to be denied here and he immediately transitions himself and Edge ... LE BELL LOCK! BRYAN HAS THE LE BELL LOCK SUBMISSION HOLD ON EDGE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING! Edge is desperately crawling to the ropes but he is nowhere near and he is losing strength here, will he tap out? Edge is weakening now, Bryan pulls back harder and the tap out seems seconds away ... BAM! Vicious shot from Sheamus to break the hold and the crowd jeer these actions as they believe that Edge was beaten there! Bryan and Sheamus battle it out in the corner and the Irishman’s power gets the better of Bryan, he catches him in the ropes and thumps hard at his chest. As he ignores the referee’s appeal for him to exit the ring, Jericho reaches over and makes a tag to Bryan, he comes in and goes for Sheamus and knocks him down to the mat before hitting the Lionsault ... Sheamus rolls out of the ring and walks into Bryan who hits a double knee to the face of the Celtic Warrior as he comes flying off the apron. Jericho spins round in the ring though ... SPEAR! EDGE HITS THE SPEAR TO JERICHO! Edge hooks the leg but one of Jericho’s legs is under the bottom rope ...

** 1 **
** 2 **

** Jericho’s foot is on the ropes! **

** 3 **

WINNER:
EDGE & SHEAMUS (7:03) via pinfall
Edge rolls out of the ring and away from the scene of the ‘crime’ with a smirk on his face as he backs up the ramp looking back at Jericho who is fuming. Jericho kicks at the ropes in frustration as he complains to the referee who signals that it is over – Edge wins and qualifies for the Elimination Chamber. Bryan joins Jericho’s protestations but they are falling on deaf ears as the referee didn’t see the foot on the ropes. Jericho, angry at Edge’s taunting from the ramp, quickly jumps through the ropes and makes off after Edge who disappears out of the arena. Bryan, looking annoyed, turns to leave as well ... BAM! BROGUE KICK! SHEAMUS DOWNS BRYAN ONCE AGAIN! As Daniel Bryan lays on his back on the mat, Sheamus stands over him and laughs – he looks super confident of himself as we head towards the Elimination Chamber, Hornswoggle too. JR suggests that Sheamus is the favourite heading into the Chamber and King can’t argue – it could be Sheamus challenging for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania!

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with Josh Mathews in the interview pit and he is preparing for an interview with somebody ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time ... the Number 1 contender for the United States Championship ... TED DIBIASE!

Into shot comes DiBiase, the Million Dollar Title over his shoulder, dressed in a suit and tie, he is not competing tonight it seems. DiBiase smirks as he awaits the question from the interviewer ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Ted, at the Rumble, you beat Daniel Bryan and earned the chance to face United States Champion Justin Gabriel for the US Championship at a time of your choosing. Can you indicate when you are planning to challenge Justin?

DiBiase fiddles with the Million Dollar Championship before answering ...

TED DIBIASE:
Josh, haven’t you worked it out? When would be the best time to challenge Gabriel for the US Championship? Let me think ... What about ... Elimination Chamber? After all, then I can embarrass him on PPV, take his title and send him away back to South Africa where he belongs!

DiBiase looks as if he is making the Elimination Chamber match official – US Championship, Gabriel vs. DiBiase!

TED DIBIASE:
Just look at the champions here on RAW for a moment. WWE Champion? British. Tag Team Champions? British. Divas Champion? French Canadian. US Champion? South African. Is it me or is there something wrong here, Josh? I’ve heard of the American Dream but this is simply and utterly ridiculous. The United States Championship is the worst of all – that needs an American champion that the people of the United States can be proud of.

Some cheers for this comment from the WWE Universe but DiBiase is about to spoil it ...

TED DIBIASE:
I don’t mean somebody like Daniel Bryan. I don’t mean people like Cryme Tyme or John Morrison. I don’t mean anybody that ever come from the state of Minnesota.

Jeers now for DiBiase as he offends crowd favourites and the state of Minnesota ...

TED DIBIASE:
The people of America need somebody like me – full of class, full of style, a wealthy man with an excellent dress sense -

DiBiase clears some dust off his lapels ...

TED DIBIASE:
... to be their champion. In two weeks at the Elimination Chamber, I will become the role model and champion that these people can be proud of, that these people can look up to and aspire to be. And Justin Gabriel, a street urchin from South Africa ...

Boos for this comment about Gabriel ...

TED DIBIASE:
... well, Gabriel will find out that this is my time here in the WWE and he can take himself back to his homeland safe in the knowledge that he has been beaten by a better man. Thank you, Josh.

Phony thanks given by DiBiase to the interviewer before he turns to leave and the cameras return to the ringside area where JR and King are sat with their eyebrows raised at DiBiase’s comments.

JIM ROSS:
Some interesting comments from Ted DiBiase, King, nevertheless, we are waiting for news from backstage about tonight’s main event ...

JERRY LAWLER:
What a huge main event it could turn out to be, JR. A ten man tag match between Nexus and John Morrison’s team – we already know that Morrison will be joined by Carlito, Gabriel and RVD but who will be the fifth member of the team?

JIM ROSS:
A big decision for John Morrison to make, the stakes are high for him here tonight – if he wins, the Nexus are barred from ringside when he challenges for the WWE Championship of Wade Barrett in two weeks at the Elimination Chamber ...

JERRY LAWLER:
That’s true, JR, but he has gambled his WWE Championship match in order to try and take out Nexus. If Morrison loses tonight, he joins Nexus and then forfeits his chance to challenge Barrett at all.

The camera switches backstage where we Morrison looking around frantically trying to find somebody to join his team here tonight on RAW. He doesn’t appear to be having much luck before the camera returns to the ring ...

*** S.O.S. ***

*** KOFI KINGSTON ***

As Kofi bounds out for his match, JR and King discuss the ongoing rivalry between Kofi and Big Show whilst replays of their confrontation earlier tonight plays out – security surround them as we hear Kofi’s taunts to Show repeated. King suggests that Kofi needs to focus on the Chamber and his chance to win the World Championship rather than antagonise the Big Show but JR reminds us that Show has put Kofi through trouble recently and deserves to be stood up to. Kofi is in the ring grinning at the replay that has just aired on the titantron as he awaits his opponent tonight ...

*** AWESOME! ***

*** I CAME TO PLAY ***


*** THE MIZ ***
Money in the Bank contract holder

Out strides Miz, already secure of his place in the RAW Elimination Chamber match, with a microphone in one hand and the Money in the Bank briefcase in the other. Miz is looking to the ring at Kofi thoughtfully with a look of incredulity in his eyes. Miz struts down to the ramp and holds up the microphone to signal for his music to be faded out ...

THE MIZ:
Really?

Miz’ catchphrase is repeated back to him by the WWE Universe ...

THE MIZ:
Really? REALLY? Tonight, two weeks before I earn the WrestleMania main event spot, I have to face this ... this ... this loser from SMACKDOWN? Really?

Jeers for Miz’ comment about Kofi being a loser ...

THE MIZ:
Everybody knows, Kofi, everybody knows that RAW is the A-show around here, everybody knows that SMACKDOWN is second rate. You’re claiming to be the next big thing here in the WWE, you seem to be on a roll, the WWE’s Breakout Star of 2010 ... but you’re doing it on the B-show? (More boos for Miz) SMACKDOWN doesn’t have any stars, Kofi. SMACKDOWN doesn’t have anybody worthy of being in a match with me. It’s high time that SMACKDOWN superstars stayed away from RAW where they simply don’t belong ...

JR apologises to the WWE Universe for Miz’ comments about SMACKDOWN and hypes up the show as being an excellent watch as Kofi watches Miz angrily as he climbs the ring steps ...

THE MIZ:
You need to calm yourself down, Kofi. Your career is not heading for the stars, your career is stagnating and you don’t even see it. You haven’t managed to win that World Championship despite numerous chances, you couldn’t win the Royal Rumble because I eliminated you ...

Kofi looks ready to snap here ...

THE MIZ:
Face it, Kofi, you’re going nowhere. And you think you can come here tonight and beat me? You think you can defeat the man who is a guaranteed WWE Champion of the future? Really, Kofi? Really?

Miz is laughing now at Kofi who is being restrained by the officials so that Miz can enter the ring ...

THE MIZ:
I don’t think you can, Kofi. You want to know why? (Kofi continues to be restrained) Because I’m the Miz ... And I’m ... AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWEEEESSSSOOOOMMMME!

Miz laughs once more as he tosses away the microphone and removes his shirt ready for action. The referee takes the briefcase away as JR and King run down Miz for his comments, they point out that both these men have been on an incredible roll of late and both could be the future of the WWE as we head towards WrestleMania and through 2011 ...

SINGLES MATCH
KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE MIZ


An even match between two of the WWE’s brightest young talents as Kofi Kingston locks up with Miz. The man who holds the Money in the Bank contract, Miz, seems to have control of the match when he manages to dodge an attempted Trouble in Paradise kick from Kofi around the 6:00 mark and he follows up with a backbreaker across the point of his knee followed by a twisting neckbreaker that leaves Kingston down on the mat. Miz is only able to pick up the 2 count but it gives him the upper hand and he begins to punish Kofi with several clotheslines in the corner as well as a boot to the face as he runs in on the Ghanaian in the corner of the ring. However, Miz is only able to get the 2 count and he frustratedly argues with the referee over it. Climbing to the top turnbuckle, Miz comes off and hits a Double Axe Handle to the head of Kofi, he makes another cover but again it is only good enough for a 2 count. As Kofi gets to his knees, Miz decides that it is time to finish things and he hits a DDT that crashes Kofi head first into the mat. Rather than make the pinfall though, Miz gets to his feet and stalks behind Kofi, out of sight, waiting for him to get to his feet. When Kofi does, Miz sneaks up behind him, locks up his arms ... Skull Crushing Finale? No! Kingston manages to elbow his way out of it and then takes advantage of the Miz’ momentary spin to leap up and hit an impressive standing drop kick to buy himself some time as Miz tumbles through the ropes.

Kofi rolls out of the ring and he chases after Miz before catching him near the announce desk. With the referee in pursuit, Kofi whips Miz hard into the barricades to the delight of the fans at ringside who cheer louder. The referee demands that Kofi gets the action back in the ring and Kofi seems to be accepting this idea when Miz charges at him looking for another boot to the face. Kofi ducks underneath but the referee isn’t so quick and he takes the boot of Miz hard into his face and is knocked down hard on the outside. With the referee down, the crowd get to their feet expecting something to happen. In the ring go Miz and Kingston and it is Kofi that gets the upper hand as he locks Miz up ... S.O. S! KOFI STRIKES WITH THE S.O.S TO MIZ! However, Kofi isn’t finished there as he takes a few moments to recover and then sneaks up on Miz and waits ... TROUBLE IN PARADISE! KOFI CONNECTS WITH A RIGHT BOOT TO THE FACE OF MIZ! Kofi hooks the leg and ... Nothing. No referee. Kofi realises where the referee is and he heads out to check on him now. Kofi is bent over the referee when there is a commotion in the crowd. Kofi gets back to his full height and then ... BOOM!


WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION! THE WMD PUNCH FROM BIG SHOW! Kofi is out cold on the outside of the ring, Show has completely knocked him cold for the third or fourth week in succession. The crowd are booing but there is nothing that can be done, the referee didn’t see it. Show rolls a prone Kofi back into the ring and then shakes up the referee and rolls him back into the ring as well. Miz is amazed as he watches on, he isn’t prepared to stop this and he simply watches and waits ... As Show exits, Miz watches Kofi who is starting to stir again. Miz goes back to the referee and he manages to get the referee back to his knees, he can see what he is doing. Miz drags Kofi up, there is little point to this, he could pin Kofi already ... SKULL CRUSHING FINALE! MIZ HITS THE SKULL CRUSHING FINALE! Kofi’s already battered head hits the mat once more and Miz hooks the leg. Slowly, still a bit dazed, the referee makes the count ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
THE MIZ (8:43) via pinfall
Replays of Big Show’s involvement in the match are shown as we see the WMD punch that knocked down Kofi Kingston as he was getting to his feet – JR and King are outraged by the cheap shot and they run down Show for it. Replays of Miz taking advantage are shown and the announcers bemoan the fact that Show interfered in a high quality match between two of the best young stars in the WWE and that they wouldn’t see a true result. King suggests that the win is tarnished for Miz but he is backing away up the ramp looking delighted to have got another win – his undefeated streak in 2011 continues. Can Miz earn the chance to battle for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania?

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with huge news from SMACKDOWN General Manager Michael Cole – this Friday on SMACKDOWN, Big Show and Kofi Kingston will finally compete one on one in a match as their grudge comes to a head ...


*** FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN LIVE ***

BIG SHOW

vs.

KOFI KINGSTON

JR and King are happy about the match made – King begrudgingly praises Michael Cole – and the chance to see Kofi get revenge on Show for interfering in his match tonight before the break. Another replay of Show’s WMD punch is shown before the camera switches to the locker room where Kurt Angle and his new team, Team Angle 2, are stood talking. Percy Watson and Joe Hennig appear to be listening intently to advice from Kurt ...

KURT ANGLE:
You’ve done everything I’ve asked so far, you’ve listened to everything I’ve told you. You’ve taken my 3 I’s on board – intelligence, integrity and intensity. I’m happy with you both so far but tonight, tonight, you need to prove that you are worth your place with an Olympic Gold Medal winner. You need to prove your worth tonight.

Hennig and Watson nod their heads, they are pumped up for tonight as they face Triple H in a Handicap Match – if Triple H wins, he qualifies for the RAW Elimination Chamber match and has a chance to deny Angle his chance to go to WrestleMania.

KURT ANGLE:
I’ve been screwed by Triple H enough in my career, he cost me a shot at the Undisputed Championship back at WrestleMania 18 and I don’t want to give him the chance to do it again. Guys, you must stop him getting into the Chamber match, I’m counting on you.

Both Watson and Hennig again nod their heads at Kurt ...

KURT ANGLE:
You’ve got to do whatever it takes to get the 3-count and get the job done. I know you can do it. Good luck, guys.

The three of them slap hands and then Joe Hennig and Percy Watson exit the locker room with Angle watching them leave with a look of slight concern in his eyes. Does he really trust his new recruits to get the job done tonight? Why is he so desperate to deny Triple H a place in the match? The camera switches back to the ring and the arrival of the afore-mentioned ‘Game’ ...

*** TIME TO PLAY THE GAME ***

*** TRIPLE H ***

The crowd pops big time for the arrival of the ‘Cerebral Assassin’ as he heads out into the spotlight looking ready to fight and earn his place in the Chamber. JR and King hype up the fact that Hunter has been in more Chamber matches than anybody and that he has been victorious in the monstrous structure before – King suggests that is why Angle doesn’t want him in the match in two weeks time. Triple H jumps on the apron and spits water into the air as the lights return and then he jumps up the ropes to salute the crowd with a look of intensity in his eyes as he prepares for another difficult task here ...

*** MEDAL ***

*** TEAM ANGLE 2 ***
Joe Hennig
Percy Watson

Boos for the newest team here on RAW as the two rookies head out dressed in red, white and blue and looking nervous as they head towards the ring. As they approach the ring, JR informs us of their history so far – he tells us about Hennig’s famous father, the legendary Mr. Perfect, and his training from legends like Harley Race and Brock Lesnar before moving on to Watson and his football experiences in the NFL before he joined the WWE. Hennig and Watson step into the ring and Hunter, a veteran here, stares at them as if trying to intimidate them. The referee signals for the bell – can Triple H overcome the numbers and earn his spot in the Elimination Chamber at the second time of asking?

2 vs. 1 HANDICAP MATCH – if Triple H wins, he qualifies for the RAW Elimination Chamber match
JOE HENNIG & PERCY WATSON (Team Angle 2) vs. TRIPLE H


Triple H is clearly the better of the three wrestlers and, in the early stages of the match, he manages to hold his own against two men as he alternates between the pair of them, handing them an harsh lesson in the ways of the WWE. However, the numbers game eventually catches up with Hunter as he attempts to his a Pedigree on Percy Watson. Joe Hennig manages to sneak up behind him and he hits a German Suplex that gets a 2 count, the surprise of it adding to Hunter’s problem when kicking out. Hennig calls out to his team-mate and they appear to be reinvigorated as they now lay a beating on the Cerebral Assassin. Watson gets to his feet and he punches Triple H over and over as Hennig restrains him. Watson pops Hunter into the ropes and then leaves him to Hennig who scoops him up – Side Slam Backbreaker over his knee. Triple H writhes in pain but there is no end in sight as he is dragged back to his feet and Watson lifts him up into a Fireman’s Carry and then drops him in a Flapjack move. On commentary, JR refers to this Fireman Carry Flapjack as Percycution and says he was informed of it earlier. Watson makes the cover but it is only going to be a 2. Now, Hennig decides he needs to try something bigger. He drags Triple H up and hits a Cradle Suplex where he bridges immediately into the cover ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Triple H is fighting hard as Watson and Hennig hit their best shots ... Frustration on the face of Hennig but he is determined, as his Watson, they want to get a huge win here on RAW tonight. Hennig whips Hunter to the ropes once more, he catches him and hits an Atomic Drop but he doesn’t release Hunter immediately and Watson hits a running drop kick to Triple H as well ... This time, surely? Hennig rolls Hunter up with both legs ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Triple H kicks out again!

The frustration on the faces of Watson and Hennig are clear now and they both hold their heads wondering what they need to do to beat Triple H here. Large boos go up from the crowd though as somebody is heading ringside ...


Kurt Angle is coming out here to keep an eye on his team, Team Angle, he gets to the edge of the ring and he calms his men down and encourages them to keep going. Hennig grabs Triple H by the head as he gets to his knees and sets for a suplex but Hunter blocks it and refuses to be suplexed. In the end, HHH wriggles clear and he hits right hands to Hennig before ducking his attempted shot ... As Hennig comes off the ropes, Triple H lifts him up ... Spinebuster! Watson attacks from behind but Trips has found a second wind here as he looks to qualify for the RAW Chamber match. As Watson goes for a Stinger splash in the corner, Hunter moves out of the way and kicks him in the gut ... PEDIGREE! TRIPLE H PEDIGREES PERCY WATSON! Triple H makes the cover and hooks the leg ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Hennig drags Triple H out of the ring by his legs and shoulder barges him into the ring steps. Watson is down and out in the ring and the referee orders Hennig back in. The distraction to the referee by Hennig means that we now have 3 vs. 1 ... Angle laying down the stomps and right hands to Triple H – not very Olympic like as JR points out. Angle rolls Triple H back into the ring as the referee turns, he looks to Angle suspiciously but says nothing, Hennig is booting the hell out Hunter now. Hunter is down on the mat and Hennig climbs to the top rope ... Diving Elbow! Misses! Hunter moves away at the last second and Hennig smashes down hard on the mat before rolling away. Kurt looks on worried as Hunter recovers, Watson still down from the Pedigree. Suddenly, Hennig is back in the ring with a steel chair! The referee goes towards him and demands he get rid of it but Hennig is having none of it and he tries to get past the referee who holds him back a little. A struggle ensues, Hennig drops the chair and then Triple H grabs him ... PEDIGREE! TRIPLE H PEDIGREES JOE HENNIG! Triple H makes a cover but the ref is climbing out of the ring to hand the chair back to the ringkeeper ...

ANGLE SLAM! TRIPLE H DRAGGED UP AND ANGLE SLAMMED BY KURT ANGLE!

Boos echo around the arena as the referee comes back into the ring. Hennig is down and out, Hunter is down and out, Watson crawls over and flops down on top of the Game ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
JOE HENNIG & PERCY WATSON (6:47) via pinfall
In the ring, Triple H looks furious as he has been screwed once more by Kurt Angle! Angle and his victorious boys are halfway up the ramp, huge smiles on their faces, they reach the stage and mock Hunter in the ring who looks almost ready to pop with rage. JR and King discuss the actions of Angle and his desperation to keep Hunter out of the Elimination Chamber – it appears he has now accomplished his goal and done just that! As RAW heads into the penultimate commercial of the night, Triple H is shown looking angrily out at the trio of Angle, Hennig and Watson as they look down to him from the stage, he has failed again to qualify for the Chamber. Who will take the last remaining spot in the RAW Chamber match though?

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

RAW returns with Josh Mathews stood backstage with the Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship – John Morrison. Beside him are the trio of Carlito, Justin Gabriel and Rob Van Dam, three members of his team tonight as he goes up against Nexus to try and take them out of the WWE Championship match in two weeks time. However, there is no sign of a fifth member of the team ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
John, can you tell us who is your fourth team-mate for tonight’s match?

Morrison pulls a face and then responds ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Josh, unfortunately, I’ve been unable to find anybody else to join my team tonight that I can trust or who hasn’t competed tonight already. Therefore, it looks like we’re going to have to go out there, just the four of us, and face Nexus with one man less than ...

???:
Bro, bro ... Wait up!

The camera spins around and we see Zack Ryder jogging up towards Morrison and his team. He receives a small pop from the crowd after his turn recently and his issues with Hawkins and Swagger over on SMACKDOWN.

ZACK RYDER:
Look, bro, I know we haven’t always seen eye to eye on things but tonight, let me join your team, let me help you defeat Nexus.

Morrison looks reluctant and turns to the other members of his team.

ZACK RYDER:
I’m different now, bro. The stuff that’s been happening with me and my former Broski, Curt Hawkins, it has made me see sense. I need to make an impact now, I need a chance to compete here on RAW. Come on, John, you know it makes sense. You can trust me ...

Morrison smiles and decides to trust Ryder ...

JOHN MORRISON:
What the hell, Zack, you can join my team. Don’t let me down though ... bro!

ZACK RYDER:
Yes! Thanks, bro, I won’t let you down. Woo Woo Woo ... You Know It!

Ryder’s goofy grin confirms his spot on the team and the camera returns to the ring as Ryder and Morrison shake hands ... The arena lights flash yellow and here come Wade Barrett and his team.

*** WE ARE ONE ***

*** NEXUS ***

Led as ever by the smug looking Wade Barrett, Nexus head down the ramp and towards the ring with the WWE Championship over the shoulder of their leader. Into the ring clamber Slater, Otunga, Sheffield and Jackson before Barrett follows them and they stand and raise their hands – seemingly oblivious to the jeers they are receiving from the WWE Universe. JR and King discuss the comments of Morrison earlier and a replay of their confrontation is shown ...

Earlier tonight said:
WADE BARRETT:
You see, I know what you claimed last week. You claimed that without these four men behind me, without Justin Gabriel, I would not be the WWE Champion. You could not be further from the truth, Morrison. These men here stand behind me and they know their role in the Nexus. They know that I am the best in the WWE, they know that I deserve to be the WWE Champion.

More raised eyebrows behind Barrett – it appears that he isn’t speaking the complete truth right now!

WADE BARRETT:
I am the leader of the Nexus, Morrison, because I have earned their respect. I won NXT, I earned these men’s respect and they follow my lead as we dominate RAW and the WWE. Without them, would I be WWE Champion? Of course I would be. But I am thankful for the support they give me as I look to shut people like you up.

Barrett and Nexus are now stood at the foot of the ramp. Barrett orders Nexus’ four members to make their way around the ring – Jackson, Otunga, Sheffield and Slater spread out on all four sides – before Barrett steps up the ring steps and through the ropes. He now stands opposite Morrison who is eying the Nexus around the ring with a wary look in his eye. JR and King suggest he needs to get out of there as soon as he can.

WADE BARRETT:
You see, Morrison, I have done in six months what you couldn’t do in six years. I have won the big one, I am the WWE Champion. I will be the WWE Champion at WrestleMania, I will be the WWE Champion for a long time. At Elimination Chamber, Morrison, it will be a walk in the park. I don’t need Nexus to beat you. Nexus will be with me for support only ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Is that a fact?

Barrett looks annoyed by the interruption.

JOHN MORRISON:
Why don’t you back up that claim then, Wade? If you don’t need Nexus, why don’t you prove it? Come out to the ring at Elimination Chamber, come out and face me like a man. One on one?

Barrett smirks once more and laughs in Morrison’s face.

WADE BARRETT:
Is there something wrong with your ears? I’ve just told you, I don’t need Nexus but they will want to be out there to support their leader and I am not going to stop them from doing that.

The camera catches David Otunga looking a little annoyed about something as he narrows his eyes whilst looking into the ring ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Wade, if you are the leader that you say you are, why don’t we do something about this? How about a match tonight?

Cheers from the WWE Universe.

JOHN MORRISON:
How about we have ourselves a match tonight? I’ll find four guys backstage that are willing to team with me to face you and your Nexus here tonight? And if I win, Wade, Nexus are barred from ringside at the Elimination Chamber!

Cheers for this idea, Barrett smirks at it.

WADE BARRETT:
Do you think that will help your chances, Morrison? Trust me, it won’t. I accept your challenge ... (Morrison smiles) ... on one condition!

Morrison’s expression changes slightly as he waits for Barrett to explain ...

WADE BARRETT:
You see, Morrison, Elimination Chamber will be a walk in the park for me. The only danger for me at the Chamber will be injury before WrestleMania 27. The only thing easier than facing you ... would be to have the night off.

Boos and jeers for the comments of Barrett ...

WADE BARRETT:
So, that is the deal, Morrison. If you and your team win, Nexus is barred from ringside. If Nexus win ... you join Nexus and you forfeit the match to me at the Chamber.

Morrison looks angry over the condition but he nods his head ...

JOHN MORRISON:
You’re on, Wade. I will find a team and we will beat you tonight. When tonight is over, Nexus will play no part in our match at the Chamber. And your title, Wade, your title will be in more danger than it has ever been.

Cheers for the determined words of Morrison, can he find a team to banish Nexus from the ring tonight?

WADE BARRETT:
I don’t think so, Morrison. You see, Nexus are more united than ever. Tonight, the Nexus gets a new member ... and I get the night off in two weeks time. Because, Morrison ... (Boos echo around the arena as Barrett looks out to the four men on the four different sides of the ring) ... you’re either Nexus ...

Wade Barrett smirks and beckons the four men to enter the ring; all four of them step up onto the apron and the situation becomes increasingly threatening for the Number 1 contender ...

WADE BARRETT:
... or you’re against us.
The replay ends and we see Nexus stood in the ring ready and waiting for their opponents tonight ...

*** COOL ***

*** CARLITO ***

First up for Team Morrison, the Caribbean Carlito heads out with an apple in his hand and heads towards the ring. He pauses at the foot of the ramp and sensibly waits for some back-up from his other team-mates first ...

*** ONE OF A KIND ***

*** ROB VAN DAM ***

The ECW legend heads out to the ring looking super confident as usual and greets the sound of his name being announced with his thumbs in the air as usual ...

*** AFRICA RISING ***

*** JUSTIN GABRIEL ***
United States Champion

The United States Championship around his waist, Gabriel heads out into the arena to join Carlito and RVD as JR and King remind us that Ted DiBiase announced earlier tonight that Gabriel would defend the title against him at the Elimination Chamber PPV in two weeks time. JR and King also speak of the strange happenings between Gabriel and the Nexus in the Royal Rumble where Sheffield, Jackson, Otunga and Slater all refused to touch him during the match.

*** RADIO ***

*** ZACK RYDER ***

The final member of the team to join heads out looking delighted to be on RAW and ready for action. With a headband around his head, Ryder punches the air and shouts ‘Woo! Woo! Woo!’ – some of the crowd begin to chant along with him although many are still viewing him with indecision after his recent run as the Tag Team Champion ...

*** AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE ***

*** JOHN MORRISON ***

Out strides Morrison with the slo-mo camera switched on and the pyro lights up behind him as he heads for the ring for one of the biggest matches of his career. JR suggests that this match is as important as the actual title match at the PPV – if Morrison can get Nexus banned from the ring, his chances of winning the WWE Championship will significantly improve. However, King reminds us of Morrison’s gamble – if he loses tonight, he joins Nexus and forfeits his chance. Morrison joins his team at the foot of the ramp and they slide into the ring ready for action ...

10 MAN TAG TEAM MATCH – if Team Morrison win, Nexus banned from ringside for WWE Title match at Elimination Chamber; if Nexus win, Morrison joins Nexus
NEXUS (Wade Barrett, David Otunga, Ezekiel Jackson, Heath Slater & Skip Sheffield) vs. John Morrison, Carlito, Justin Gabriel, RVD & Zack Ryder


Usual large tag team match in the early stages with lots of quick tags and cheating from the heel team – in this case, Nexus. Morrison is agitated throughout as he knows how important this match is to him here tonight. The most important part of the first half of the match comes when Justin Gabriel tags into the match for Team Morrison – Heath Slater, the Nexus legal man at this point, steps back with his hands up. A stand off occurs as Slater clearly doesn’t want to fight with Gabriel here ... Why not?! Slater looks for a tag to one of his team-mates but none of them appear to want the tag either. Skip Sheffield refuses, Ezekiel Jackson does, so does David Otunga. Barrett wants nothing to do with Gabriel either but he is the only one who stays on the apron as Sheffield, Otunga and Big Zeke all drop to the floor out of the way. Barrett looks down at them confused but then Slater tags himself out and Barrett in as he tags the shoulder of the Nexus leader ... Gabriel fair drags Barrett into the ring and starts battering him with forearms before whipping him to a neutral corner. He hits a running drop kick to the WWE Champion, climbs the ropes and, as Barrett staggers back around, Gabriel leaps off ... Hurricanrana! Barrett rolls out of the ring to safety as Gabriel dares the rest of Nexus to get into the ring but they all refuse as RAW heads into the final commercial of the evening ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

A replay is shown of Gabriel getting distracted by the rest of Nexus – he is trying to get them to come in and fight him – and this allows Barrett to sneak up behind him and kick him in the gut as he spins round ... Powerbomb! It isn’t enough for a 3 count though, to Morrison’s relief, and Barrett goes to tag Nexus in ... again, they all refuse. This allows Gabriel time to crawl away as Barrett barks orders to his men ... Gabriel tags in Morrison who comes rushing over and jumps Barrett from behind. However, as Barrett stumbles, Ezekiel Jackson gets the tag – now that Gabriel is out? – and he begins to drag Morrison away from the WWE Champion. Jackson begins to hit powerslams on Morrison and then he makes a cover ... 2 count! Morrison is looking to tag back out now but Jackson continues to use his size and power to work on Morrison as he weakens him up with stiff kicks to the knee. Morrison wildly swings at Jackson but misses and Big Zeke scoops him up ... TORTURE RACK! JACKSON LOCKS ON THE TORTURE RACK TO MORRISON! Morrison battles wildly and manages to escape down Zeke’s back but he is caught with a huge clothesline from the Guyanan that turns him inside out. Barrett shouts now and demands to be tagged in but Jackson doesn’t want to tag out now. Barrett steps through the ropes and jabs at Jackson’s chest, he is showing his leadership here as he demands to be tagged in when he wants. Barrett spins and barks orders to all the other three members of Nexus too – he is clearly heard to shout “I’m in charge!” Jackson does as he is asked and he tags Barrett who nods his head in thanks. However, Morrison has tagged in Ryder now and he rushes over ... Barrett spins round ... ROUGH RYDER! RYDER TAKES DOWN THE WWE CHAMPION! Barrett is hurt now and Zack makes the cover ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Barrett shows his guts as he kicks out and then stretches for a tag ...

NEXUS HAVE JUST JUMPED DOWN OFF THE APRON!

There is nobody there for a tag as Barrett reaches to his corner. What are Nexus doing? Skip Sheffield, David Otunga, Heath Slater and Ezekiel Jackson are all slowly backing away from the ring and towards the ramp as Barrett slumps in the corner watching them. Ryder flashes the L.I symbol with his fingers as Barrett watches his team-mates as they seem to be deserting him! BROSKI BOOT! RYDER WITH THE BROSKI BOOT! Ryder skips over and tags in Carlito to cheers. He watches Nexus moving further away from the ring, chuckles and waits as Barrett gets up ... BACKSTABBER! CARLITO WITH THE BACKSTABBER TO BARRETT! Nexus are up on the stage now, they are walking out on Wade Barrett, their leader, the WWE Champion, the founder of the Nexus! Carlito tags in RVD who climbs the ropes ... FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH! RVD smashes down on Barrett, it’s all over now, surely? RVD drags Barrett to the Morrison corner and tags in Justin Gabriel who smirks as he climbs the ropes ... 450 SPLASH! GABRIEL HITS BARRETT WITH THE 450 SPLASH! A move that used to be one of the Nexus’ signature moves is now used on the Nexus leader! Gabriel grins as he looks down on Barrett and then tags in the Number 1 contender to Barrett’s WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber! Here comes John Morrison! He waits and waits as he watches Barrett struggling on the mat ... A quick glance to the stage where Nexus remain, Morrison rushes over at Barrett ... CHUCK KICK! MORRISON CHUCK KICK’S THE WWE CHAMPION! Morrison makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
JOHN MORRISON, CARLITO, JUSTIN GABRIEL, RVD & ZACK RYDER (11:27) via pinfall
JOHN MORRISON HAS PINNED THE WWE CHAMPION! Nexus watch on from the stage as Morrison celebrates his victory over Barrett – in the end, it was easy but that doesn’t change the fact that the odds were dramatically cut on a Morrison win at Elimination Chamber in the last ten minutes. However, even bigger news – what on earth happened with Nexus and their walkout on their leader? Barrett has rolled out of the ring after taking the best shots of Team Morrison and sits up leaning against the ring steps for support as he looks up the ramp towards the rest of his team with a look on shock and anger on his face. It seems that there are going to be no answers here as the other four members of Nexus turn on their heel and walk off the stage and out of view to leave a bewildered Barrett looking on with no clue. In the ring, Morrison shakes hands with the rest of his team and even has a hug for his new ‘broski’ Ryder as RAW ends with JR and King hyping up the improvement in Morrison’s chances at Elimination Chamber as a result of this win ...

*** END OF SHOW ***

=========================================


ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011
*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

GRUDGE MATCH
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Christian vs. The Undertaker

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
Daniel Bryan vs. Kurt Angle vs. The Miz vs. Sheamus vs. Edge vs. ???

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. John Morrison
(Nexus barred from ringside)

UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP
Justin Gabriel (c) vs. Ted DiBiase

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla vs. Michelle McCool (?)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***
 
#117 ·
February 8, 2011: NXT



NXT
SEASON 3, EPISODE 7

BRADLEY CENTER, MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 8TH, 2011

Last week on NXT, we saw the first person eliminated from the competition as Dolph Ziggler defeated MVP and consigned the Ballin’ Superstar to the WWE history books. Elimination from the NXT competition means, of course, that MVP’s time in the WWE is over. As for Ziggler and the other six remaining participants, things now get serious. At the moment, Great Khali is leading the way but – as NXT reaches the halfway stage tonight – he is there to be shot at. After Week 6, the standings stand as follows:

*** RANKINGS AFTER WEEK 6 ***

** 1 **
Great Khali

** 2 **
Vladimir Kozlov

** 3 **
Chavo Guerrero

** 4 **
Drew McIntyre

** 5 **
R-Truth

** 6 **
Dolph Ziggler

** 7 **
Kaval

** ALREADY ELIMINATED **
MVP (Week 6)​
Of course, the rankings don’t tell the whole story – Kaval currently sits in last position in the rankings but he is actually the only one secure of his place on NXT right now. After winning the NXT Battle Royal at the Rumble, Kaval won the right to immunity from the first two eliminations meaning that he is guaranteed to survive past the Elimination Chamber PPV. Can the same be said for any of the other NXT competitors?


SECOND NXT ELIMINATION MATCH NEXT WEEK: The show began with news from NXT announcer Matt Striker that next week’s edition of NXT would feature the second NXT Elimination match between the lowest ranked, eligible competitors. Striker informed the audience that – as it stands – that would be Dolph Ziggler, who survived the Elimination match last week, and R-Truth, both members of Team Rock – or Team Rock and Sock as they are now known. Striker went on to inform everybody that both Ziggler and Truth would have chance to escape the elimination places as they would face the two men immediately above them in the rankings: Ziggler will face Chavo Guerrero tonight as well as R-Truth going up against Drew McIntyre. If Ziggler and Truth can win their matches, they would escape the danger spots and would send their opponents into the Elimination match next week. As for the other three men remaining in the NXT competition, Great Khali, Vladimir Kozlov and Kaval, they would be involved in a Tag Team match. To open the show, Striker introduced Khali and Kaval first and then Kozlov with ... Cody Rhodes from SMACKDOWN.

Great Khali (1) & Kaval (7) vs. Cody Rhodes and Vladimir Kozlov (2): The big man – small man combination of Khali and Kaval take the adulation of the crowd as they look to get the win over the Russian and the arrogant, cocky Rhodes. The power of Khali and the speed and agility of Kaval allow them to take control and they manage to take down their opponents over and over again until Kozlov manages to get back at Kaval with a headbutt to his chest as he comes off the top rope. This leads to a period of dominance from Kozlov as he frustrates Khali by keeping Kaval away from the tag. In the end, Kaval makes the hot tag and Khali comes in and uses the Khali Chop to knock down Kozlov and Rhodes for a close 2 count on Cody – Kozlov making the save just in time. Kozlov also denies Khali once more as he looks to hit the Punjabi Plunge on Kaval and this leads to the two big men battling out of the ring, the men ranked one and two trading punches. As Khali exits, Kaval gets the blind tag and he comes in and attacks Cody but the SMACKDOWN star gets a reversal and hits the CROSS RHODES ... 1 ... 2 ... 3!

WINNER:​
Cody Rhodes & Vladimir Kozlov​

MVP FAREWELL: After the break, MVP, the man eliminated last week, heads out into the arena for his final appearance in the WWE. He thanks the WWE Universe for all their support during his time in the WWE as well as Teddy Long, the man who hired him in the first place. MVP says that he is devastated to have lost last week and he wishes he could have beaten Ziggler if only to get rid of Vickie Guerrero. As MVP tries to continue, out comes his mentor, JBL, to interrupt. JBL tells MVP that in his early days on SMACKDOWN, JBL looked out for him and helped him, he never gave MVP any bad advice. In truth, MVP couldn’t have wished for a better mentor than him but he didn’t listen to him, he didn’t follow his advice and instructions and now he only has himself to blame for his elimination from NXT. MVP angrily reacts and tells JBL that he has more class than to run around ganging up on somebody just because of his size which is what JBL expected him to do. He says that Kozlov and McIntyre might be stupid enough to follow those kind of orders but he has principles ... JBL cuts him off. He says that if MVP had ganged up on Kaval at the Royal Rumble, as he told him to, then Kaval would have never won the Battle Royal. If that hadn’t happened, Kaval wouldn’t have got the immunity and then MVP would never have ended up in the Elimination match last week. JBL says that MVP is out of NXT for one reason – his own stupidity. JBL leaves and then MVP speaks up once more. He says he isn’t out of NXT because of stupidity, he is out here because of his pride and because he simply came up short. MVP thanks the fans one more time and then takes his leave from the NXT competition ... and the WWE.

Alicia Fox vs. Michelle McCool (w/Kharma):After Chip Butty’s announcement a fortnight ago is replayed, we are reminded that McCool needs to win two more matches, including tonight, in order to get into the Divas Championship Triple Threat match at the Elimination Chamber PPV. Replays of McCool’s wins in the last two weeks are shown before we head into the match tonight. McCool makes short work of Alicia Fox after another little distraction from Kharma ... WINGS OF LOVE! ... 1 ... 2 ... 3!

WINNER:​
Michelle McCool​

Michelle McCool takes one step closer to the Divas Championship as she gets another big win. She now will face one more match next week on Episode 8 of NXT and one more win will mean that she will challenge Divas Champion Maryse and former champion and Laycool partner, Layla, in a Triple Threat match. Striker and Josh Mathews remind us that McCool and Kharma viciously beat Maryse and Layla at the Rumble but then informs us that they will return to the WWE next week on NXT to see if McCool can earn her spot in the title match.

Drew McIntyre (4) vs. R-Truth (5):Here is R-Truth’s chance to get out of 5th spot and the danger zone as he goes up against Drew McIntyre. If he can beat the Sinister Scotsman, it will be McIntyre who will be in the Elimination match next week on NXT instead. McIntyre dominates as the crowd rally around Truth but they can’t inspire him to make a comeback until he finally counters as Drew goes for the Future Shock DDT. R-Truth reverses into a jawbreaker and then hits the Scissors Kick as he looks to get the big win. The crowd chant along as the referee counts ... 1 ... 2 ... McINTYRE KICKS OUT JUST IN TIME! The crowd are disappointed but Truth goes back to the Scot and looks to hit another big move but McIntyre manages to counter ... FUTURE SHOCK DDT! It’s over! McIntyre hooks the leg ... 1 ... 2 ... 3!

WINNER:​
Drew McIntyre​

Drew McIntyre remains fourth in the NXT rankings as a result of the victory whilst R-Truth stays fifth and confirms that he will be in next week’s match to determine the second elimination from NXT! Truth is disappointed but he steels himself – he has one last chance next week to save his NXT chances and his career in the WWE ...

MICK FOLEY UPDATE ON THE ROCK: Foley apologises for taking up time on the show and commiserates with Truth’s loss to McIntyre earlier tonight. He says he realises that next week will now feature two members of his team – Truth vs. Ziggler or Chavo, all three are on Team Rock – but he is sure that after the elimination, he will be able to inspire the remaining two to challenge for victory. Foley says that “Team Rock n Sock” will win NXT for The Rock who has been advised to remain away from the WWE indefinitely as he recovers from a severe concussion. Foley suggests that WrestleMania is the grandest stage of them all and only The Rock can electrify that event – he is sure Rock will be back in time to inspire his team and to kick JBL’s ‘candy ass’ all over WrestleMania 27.

MAIN EVENT – Chavo Guerrero (3) vs. Dolph Ziggler (6):Before the match, Striker and Mathews remind us of the little sub-plot behind this match after the words of Dolph Ziggler’s associate Vickie Guerrero when she slammed Chavo and declared him a disgrace to the Guerrero name. Vickie reinforces this as she speaks ill of Chavo before the match and she vows that Ziggler will defeat him tonight. With third spot on the line, Chavo and Dolph go at it and they have a good back and forth match, both men desperate to win and avoid facing R-Truth in a battle to the end next week. Chavo tries to rub Vickie’s nose in it as he goes for the Frog Splash used so effectively by his Uncle Eddie but Ziggler moves out of the way late and Chavo hits the mat hard. Getting to his feet dazed, Ziggler catches Chavo and locks on the Sleeper hold. Chavo’s struggles to get out of it but he isn’t able to. Ziggler keeps it locked in and Chavo falls to his knees, will he pass out? Guerrero hears the backing of the crowd and he desperately tries to fight to his feet one last time ... He jumps up and pushes off the top turnbuckle with his feet, rolling back, Ziggler is trapped and his shoulders are down ... 1 ... 2 ... ZIGGLER JUST KICKS OUT! Chavo can’t believe it but he kicks Ziggler in the gut and then slams him down to the mat before heading to the corner again. Vickie jumps up on the apron and drags his foot back, Chavo manages to shake her off and the referee orders her away but Ziggler pounces and knocks Chavo’s feet from under him. Chavo crotches himself on the top buckle and then falls forward, stumbling off the ropes. He staggers to his feet and turns ... ZIG ZAG! ZIGGLER HITS THE ZIG ZAG TO CHAVO! Dolph makes the cover as Vickie counts along ... 1 ... 2 ... 3!

WINNER:​
Dolph Ziggler​

The result means that Ziggler has taken Chavo’s third place in the rankings by defeating the Mexican. However, this means that Chavo drops into Ziggler’s sixth place and that means that next week’s Elimination match will feature R-Truth vs. Chavo Guerrero, one of these two men will be eliminated from NXT and WWE next week!

*** RANKINGS AFTER WEEK 7 ***

** 1 **
Great Khali

** 2 **
Vladimir Kozlov

** 3 **
Dolph Ziggler

** 4 **
Drew McIntyre

** 5 **
R-Truth

** 6 **
Chavo Guerrero

** 7 **
Kaval

** ALREADY ELIMINATED **
MVP (Week 6)

** NEXT WEEK ON NXT **

NXT ELIMINATION MATCH
Chavo Guerrero vs. R-Truth

Michelle McCool in action – if she wins, she earns her place in the Divas Championship match with Layla and Maryse (c) at the Elimination Chamber.​
 
#118 ·
Definitely loved both RAW and NXT but I really can't wait until Smackdown because you are building up towards the Elimination Chamber pay per view but seriously though Miz doesn't even need to be in the Elimination Chamber match for RAW considering he has the MITB briefcase and he could cash it in on Barrett or even Morrison right after the WWE Championship match, so either way Miz could end up going to Mania as #1 Contender or as the champion
 
#119 ·
February 11, 2011: SMACKDOWN

Apologies for the delay for those of you who were reading. Hope you continue to read the show. The "Go Home" RAW shouldn't be too long before it follows.



FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN LIVE
BRADLEY CENTER, MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 11TH, 2011


*** DO YOU KNOW THE ENEMY? ***

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***



SMACKDOWN is back live and Mick Foley and Todd Grisham welcome the world to Milwaukee as they begin to hype up the main event for tonight – John Cena vs. an opponent from RAW chosen by Randy Orton. They remind us that Cena needs to beat Orton’s time of 14 minutes and 43 seconds from RAW this Monday after Orton was punished for his RKO to Michael Cole last week with a 10 minute penalty. If Cena can beat that time, he gets to choose the match type for their contest at the Elimination Chamber. Grisham and Foley also hype up the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match – just nine days away now – which now has a complete line up following last week’s amazing SMACKDOWN show. CM Punk will be defending the World Championship against Big Show, Christian, Jeff Hardy, Kofi Kingston and The Undertaker after Christian and Undertaker qualified last week. Speaking of the World Champion ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***
*** CM PUNK ***
World Heavyweight Champion

A very mixed reaction for the World Champion as he heads out onto the stage smirking and proudly displaying his World Championship which is fastened around his waist – he kneels down and looks at his wrists before yelling out his infamous catchphrase “It’s Clobberin’ Time!” and heading for the ring. It seems like there are currently more cheers than boos after Punk’s actions last week on SMACKDOWN – Grisham introduce a replay to remind us of these ...

SMACKDOWN said:
SINGLES MATCH – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFIER (If Christian wins, he qualifies. If Christian loses, he is fired)
CHRISTIAN vs. JOHN CENA


...

Cena steps back and he beckons for Christian to get to his feet as he waits and waits behind him, stalking his prey, ready to strike. The crowd are screaming for Christian to realise what is coming but he groggily gets up to his knees with no sign that he is aware that Cena is waiting to pounce ...

MICHAEL COLE:
This is it, Punk. The end of your new best friend, Christian is out of here in just a few ... Wait, where are you going?

CM PUNK:
Do you think I’m going to stay sat here all night, Cole?

Punk winks at Cole and then throws his headset at him before he slides into the ring, dropping the World Championship on the way, and stands up in front of Christian as he gets up. The referee orders Punk to get back out of the ring whilst Cena looks at him and prepares for a fight. However, Punk does the one thing that nobody expects him to do – as Christian gets up to his feet, Punk clotheslines him and knocks him back down to the mat as everybody in the arena stares stunned at what they’ve just seen. Cena looks confused towards Punk who shrugs his shoulders and winks at Cena, the referee has no choice ...

** THE REFEREE SIGNALS FOR THE BELL TO DISQUALIFY JOHN CENA! **

WINNER:
CHRISTIAN (9:36) via disqualification
Punk leaves Christian and heads over to the ropes where he stands staring down at Cole and Cena who has exited the ring – he taps his head and laughs as it becomes clear what has happened here ...

TONY CHIMEL:
The winner of this match, as a result of a disqualification, and qualifying for the Elimination Chamber match ... CHRISTIAN!

Realising what CM Punk has just done, the WWE Universe cheer loudly whilst Cole and Cena look on in anger. Christian has qualified for the Elimination Chamber thanks to CM Punk! Cole looks stunned by this and he throws the headset down in temper before storming off around the ring and up the ramp. Cena looks on at Punk who now holds up the World Championship to mock Cena who shakes his head and begins to walk away. Punk laughs and then turns to Christian with the title still held high. Christian and Punk are speaking in the ring even though we can’t hear it. Clearly, Punk is telling him that he has gotten him a shot at the title, now he has chance to prove that he can win it. Christian nods his head and there is a look of respect between the pair of them as the camera follows them out of the ring ... Grisham and Foley laugh about the look on Michael Cole’s face when he stormed off at the end before Grisham hypes up our main event match tonight – a Buried Alive match between Kane and the Undertaker. Foley says it is too close to call and with the spot in the Chamber up for grabs, both of these men will pull out all the stops tonight to try and make sure that they get the victory that they need. Grisham throws out to a video outlining the issues between these two men in their WWE careers ...
The camera returns to the World Champion who is now stood in the ring looking happy as he watches the titantron replays from last week. Grisham informs us that SMACKDOWN General Manager is reported to be extremely upset with Punk’s actions and has vowed to get even with the man from Chicago at the first opportunity he gets ...

CM PUNK:
Ladies and Gentlemen, tonight, I stand before you as a very happy man. As you just saw, last week on SMACKDOWN, I found a way to out-smart Michael Cole and Christian, a man who pushed me to the limit at the Royal Rumble and a man who has earned my respect, duly qualified for the Elimination Chamber. In nine days time, I defend this title ... (Punk unfastens the World Championship and holds it high) ... against Christian and four other men inside the demonic Elimination Chamber ...

A pop for Punk’s words, his words are appreciated tonight ...

CM PUNK:
There are many people who I’ve spoken to in the last week who, quite frankly, think I’m nuts. They think that I’ve lost my mind. I’ve been asked over and over – Why do you want Christian, a legitimate threat and a guy you struggled to overcome at the Rumble, why do you want him in the Chamber? Why are you so happy to be defending your title in such monstrous circumstances?

Punk looks around the arena, sure that many in attendance will be thinking the same questions, and he smiles ...

CM PUNK:
I’ve answered each and every one of these people in the same way – I am simply the ‘Best in the World’ and I am going to prove it in nine days time at the Elimination Chamber and then I prove it once and for all on the ‘Grandest Stage of them all’ at WrestleMania 27.

Cheers for this although some boos are mixed in still ...

CM PUNK:
So, when I face Christian in nine days, don’t expect an alliance between us. I don’t ... (Punk uses air quotes) ... “like” Christian but I do ... respect Christian. That won’t help in at the Chamber though, it will be his downfall, I will be determined to beat him and prove that his stubborn, courageous resilience at the Rumble was a one off, a fluke, something for me to overcome – and I will overcome it.

Just like that, Punk has switched back to being a heel and some boos follow ...

CM PUNK:
I will overcome Christian, I will overcome Kofi Kingston, I will overcome Big Show ...

Punk smirks before his next one ...

CM PUNK:
As I have done before, I will definitely overcome Jeff Hardy!

Heat for Punk here as the WWE Universe remember the circumstances around Hardy’s last exit from the WWE ...

CM PUNK:
And I know I will overcome the Deadman, the Phenom of the WWE ... I will overcome The Undertaker!

Pop for the mention of the legendary Taker ...

CM PUNK:
I will beat all five of them, respect or no respect, I will still be your World Champion, I will still be Michael Cole’s World Champion and I will go to WrestleMania 27 and face John Cena and I will prove to him and all of you that I am ... the ‘Best ... in the World’

The mixed reactions continue for Punk – the WWE Universe don’t know whether to cheer him or jeer him. As Punk looks serious after his big claims, the titantron flashes and here comes the man who Punk could be facing in two months time at WrestleMania 27 ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***
*** JOHN CENA ***
Royal Rumble 2011 Winner

CM PUNK:
Oh great!

Punk looks annoyed as Cena, dressed in jean shorts and a custom black t-shirt declaring that nobody can see him, heads for the ring, waving his hand over his face to the WWE Universe as they give him grief. Cena slides into the ring and grabs a microphone before he waves a finger to signal for his music to be cut ...

CM PUNK:
Well, well, well, what a surprise! John Cena is out here, ladies and gentlemen!

JOHN CENA:
Quit trying to be funny, Punk, it ain’t working, man. I’ve been getting ready for my match later tonight backstage and I had no intention of coming out here tonight to speak to you or these idiots here in Milwaukee ...

Heat for Cena as he insults the Milwaukee crowd here ...

JOHN CENA:
... But then, Punk, then I heard you mouthing off as usual. You’re claiming to be the ... (Air quotes from Cena) ... “Best in the World” ... but the way I see it, Punk, you’re a long way from proving that. If you think that you’re just going to beat five other men in the Elimination Chamber and then walk into my WrestleMania main event and beat me, well, you’ve got a lot of confidence but it is all mis-placed.

Punk gives Cena a quizzical look and then leans back against the ropes, his hand waving across the ring, inviting him to continue taking the centre stage. Cena says a couple of words to Punk off microphone before continuing ...

JOHN CENA:
You see, Punk, it goes like this. I don’t think you’ll be the World Champion by WrestleMania. You have got to face five other men but if by some miracle, if by some way or means, you can retain that title in the Chamber, then you’ve got to face me at WrestleMania. (Punk shrugs his shoulders at Cena) And Punk, if that happens, you’ve got ... no chance.

CM PUNK:
Is that a fact?

JOHN CENA:
It is, Punk. You can’t beat me at WrestleMania. You wanna know why?

Punk smirks at Cena and mouths “Go ahead” to the Royal Rumble winner ...

JOHN CENA:
Because you’ve upset the wrong people, Punk. You claim that you don’t care what these people think of you, you claim that you don’t care what the locker room thinks of you, you claim that you don’t care what Michael Cole thinks of you. Last week, Punk, you interfered in my match with Christian and you deliberately went against the General Manager’s orders, you allowed Christian to qualify for the Elimination Chamber. Now tell me, Punk, how do you think Michael Cole feels about that?

Punk clearly doesn’t care a jot about what Cole thinks but Cena presses on with it ...

JOHN CENA:
Do you honestly believe that Michael Cole is going to allow you to retain that title, Punk?

Punk looks a little concerned over this comment but he shakes his head at Cena ready to speak when ...

*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***
*** CHRISTIAN ***

Punk and Cena turn to face Christian as he heads out to the ring looking around the Bradley Arena for his Peeps – there are a lot of them here in Milwaukee tonight. As he steps up the ring steps, Christian has a smile on his face, he is clearly delighted that he is in the Elimination Chamber match for the World Championship a week on Sunday. The Canadian enters the ring and nods his head in the direction of CM Punk before scowling at Cena as he collects a microphone.

CHRISTIAN:
I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation, guys. I’m out here to tell you both that ... you’re right. CM Punk, you’re right. You’re nuts. You made sure that I got my place in the Elimination Chamber – even though I proved at the Royal Rumble that I am more than a match for you. And while I respect you for that, while I thank you for that, I think you’ve made a huge mistake. You see, you have the one thing in the world that I would do anything to get my hands on ... (Christian points to the title belt in Punk’s right hand) ... The World Heavyweight Championship. CM Punk, you are, as you said earlier ... nuts.

Punk shakes his head at Christian and chuckles to himself as Christian turns towards Cena with a glint in his eye ...

CHRISTIAN:
As for you, Cena. You’re right too. Much as I know CM Punk doesn’t like to hear it, he will not walk out of WrestleMania 27 as the World Champion. In fact, he won’t even walk into WrestleMania 27 as the World Heavyweight Champion ... I will. If I’ve always dreamed of holding the World Heavyweight Championship, my wildest dreams have been about holding the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania. Cena, I cannot wait to face you one on one at ...

CM PUNK:
Hold it, hold it! (Punk doesn’t look impressed with Christian’s comments) Did I hear you right, Christian? You really believe that you’re going to win the World Heavyweight Championship in nine days time?

Christian nods his head as CM Punk looks him in the eyes.

CM PUNK:
Christian, you’re only in the World Championship match at the Chamber because of me. You’re only going to be in the Chamber because I want to prove to the world that I can beat you, 1, 2, 3! Christian, you will not be leaving the Elimination Chamber as World Champion. You will not be going to WrestleMania as the World Champion. Christian, I don’t like to be the one to break this to you but ... You will never ever be World Champion.

Christian’s look intensifies as he takes a step towards Punk, the World Champion stands face to face with him and tension fills the air as they stare into each other’s eyes ready to go right now. However, it doesn’t happen, Cena walks over and waves at the pair of them ...

JOHN CENA:
Boys, stop fighting! It isn’t worth it. It doesn’t matter whether it’s CM Punk or Christian who comes out of the Elimination Chamber with the World Heavyweight Championship. What matters is that when Elimination Chamber is over, I will have destroyed Randy Orton, I will head to WrestleMania and I will win the World Championship – whoever the champion is.

*** S.O.S ***
*** KOFI KINGSTON ***

A huge pop for the Ghanaian, Kofi Kingston, as he bounds out onto the stage and all three men in the ring turn their attention towards him. Kingston jumps down onto the ramp and green and yellow pyro explodes behind him as he makes his way towards the ring and climbs the corner buckles to salute the fans quickly before grabbing a microphone of his own ...

KOFI KINGSTON:
Do you know what, guys? I think that all three of you are disrespecting me! (Kofi points to himself) It seems to me that the three of you seem to be forgetting that it isn’t just about you guys, there are four other people with a shot of leaving WrestleMania 27 as the World Champion. Now I don’t speak for Jeff Hardy, I don’t speak for The Undertaker and I definitely don’t speak for the Big Show but with all the talk about respect out here, I would have thought that you would have had more respect for the four of us.

Christian backs away from Punk a little more and kind of holds his hand up in apology to Kingston – it isn’t reciprocated by CM Punk or Cena however ...

KOFI KINGSTON:
In nine days time, God willing, I will give everything I have to find a way to win that World Championship and head to WrestleMania for the main event ...

*** CRANK IT UP ***
*** BIG SHOW ***

Out strides Big Show, a look of determined rage in his eyes, he looks ready to cause some damage on SMACKDOWN tonight and beyond. As he heads for the ring, Kofi’s mood changes and he gets ready to protect himself if the need arises ... Big Show steps over the top rope but he only stares at Kingston. He reaches over and snatches the microphone from Christian before turning to address Kingston ...

BIG SHOW:
The time for talking is over, Kofi. Tonight, I am going to beat you so badly that you won’t make it to the Elimination Chamber match, Punk, Christian, I am going to destroy you inside the Chamber and then ... (Show turns towards Cena) ... well, Cena, let us just say I owe you a little bit, shall we? At the end of WrestleMania, the era of Big Show dominance will finally be here, the Giant will finally be on top.

Large boos for the words of Big Show as he starts to talk trash towards Kofi, Punk, Christian and Cena – all five men are getting in each other’s faces now and nobody is using their microphone now. As it threatens to turn ugly, the sound of the SMACKDOWN General Manager echoes through the arena ...

MICHAEL COLE:
That’s enough, that is enough. (Cole strides towards the ring wearing a suit and a blue tie and looking determined) ... This is how things begin when I don’t start SMACKDOWN with my usual address?

Boos for Michael Cole as he enters the ring shaking his head.

MICHAEL COLE:
As you’ve mentioned, once or twice, the Elimination Chamber pay per view is just nine days away now. Rightly, you’re all excited about your opportunities for the Chamber but you need to focus on tonight, you need to focus on SMACKDOWN because tonight we’ve got a number of high profile matches and you will all need to be on top of your game tonight. Yet again, I am out to prove that SMACKDOWN is the A-show here in the WWE and I have organised matches to prove this.

Cole looks full of self-importance as he stands central in the ring and looks around at all five men in the ring with a look of power in his eyes ...

MICHAEL COLE:
As I announced on RAW last Monday, I have made a match tonight between two of the participants in the Chamber already. Tonight, Kofi Kingston goes one on one ... with the Big Show. (Cheers from the WWE Universe) In addition to this, John Cena, well you have your match against a surprise opponent with the time of 14 minutes and 43 seconds to beat.

Cena asks whether Cole knows who is opponent will be but Cole shakes his head ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Sorry, John, no idea yet. (Cole turns away and faces Christian) Christian ... tonight, you will also go one on one with another of the Elimination Chamber participants ... (Christian glances sideways towards the World Champion, CM Punk) ... It will be Christian, one on one with ...

Cole pauses as he milks the announcement for a minute ...

MICHAEL COLE:
... with The Undertaker!

Huge cheers and astonishment around the arena – Christian vs. The Undertaker here on SMACKDOWN tonight! Christian looks a little shell-shocked at the idea that he will face the Deadman but he steels himself and nods his head ... Cole moves on and speaks to CM Punk next ...

CM PUNK:
Which, let me guess, leaves me against ... Hmmm, who could it be? Could it be ... Jeff Hardy?

Punk mocks Cole but the General Manager looks Punk dead in the eye and smirks. He then shakes his head ...

MICHAEL COLE:
CM Punk vs. Jeff Hardy? Really? I don’t think so! You see, Punk, I have other plans for Jeff Hardy tonight – he will team with his brother, the man he beat last week, Matt Hardy ... and they will challenge the British Empire for the Tag Team Championships!

Huge cheers from the WWE Universe as they love this announcement from Cole ...

MICHAEL COLE:
You, on the other hand, Punk. You disrespected me last week ... And you’re going to pay for it. (Punk glares at Cole as the crowd boo this comment) Tonight, Punk, you will go up against Team Angle ... That’s right!

Punk seems to be unconcerned over facing the WWE’s newest tag team despite their impressive victory over Triple H on RAW last week ...

MICHAEL COLE:
It will be World Champion CM Punk ... up against ... Percy Watson ... Joe Hennig ...

Pause from Cole as he thinks for a moment ...

MICHAEL COLE:
... And Kurt Angle!

Cole walks over towards the ropes before he stops and looks back ...

MICHAEL COLE:
And that match is next, Punk!

Punk looks outraged as he continues to glare at Cole – however, the SMACKDOWN General Manager is looking happy now that he has got revenge on CM Punk over last week. Cena smirks as he passes Punk and joins Cole as he heads back up the ramp out of the arena to a load of jeers and boos. In the ring, Punk, Kofi, Christian and Show look around at each other as SMACKDOWN heads into its first commercial break of the evening ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with CM Punk now alone in the ring waiting for his opponents tonight. A quick replay of Cole announcing Punk’s match is played before the RAW trio begin to make their way down towards the ring ...

*** MEDAL ***
*** TEAM ANGLE ***
Kurt Angle, Joe Hennig & Percy Watson

As Kurt Angle leads out his new team, Team Angle 2, towards the ring, Grisham and Foley update us on why the RAW team are here tonight – Cole has been planning this since Monday on RAW and he invited Angle, Hennig and Watson here tonight with revenge on Punk in mind after seeing what they did to Triple H. Red, white and blue pyro explodes as Kurt heads for the ring with the younger Hennig and Watson following behind, they head into the ring and prepare whilst staring towards a vulnerable looking Punk in the opposite corner. The referee signals for the bell and the Handicap Match is under way ...

Match #1 said:
1 vs. 3 HANDICAP MATCH
CM PUNK vs. KURT ANGLE, JOE HENNIG & PERCY WATSON


Punk hesitantly comes forwards to meet Team Angle who spread out, Kurt flanked by Hennig and Watson either side of him. Punk looks around at the three of them, waiting for the attack, paranoid over where it will come from – then it seems as if Punk decides to just go for it and he launches towards Angle and starts hammering away with forearms that stagger the Olympian backwards. However, Hennig and Watson are immediately on Punk’s back and they hammer away on him and drag him away from Angle instead. Punk makes space and then hits a high kick to the face of Hennig that staggers him before he whips Watson to the corner and follows in with a High Knee. The crowd are behind Punk here as he looks to Bulldog Watson down to the mat but Kurt Angle now prevents this as he attacks Punk from behind. Angle drags Punk away and then steps back and clotheslines the World Champion up and over the top rope to the floor outside. Team Angle mock the WWE Universe for a moment but then as Hennig and Watson come out for Punk, he suddenly lifts a steel chair from under the ring and rams Hennig hard in the gut with it before wheeling round and smashing it across the back of Percy Watson. The referee signals for the bell immediately and Punk smirks as he slides back into the ring towards Angle ...

** CM PUNK HAS BEEN DISQUALIFIED! **

WINNER:
TEAM ANGLE (1:04) via disqualification
Punk advances on Kurt Angle who decides to haul his ass out of the ring rather than take a shot from Punk as well –Hennig and Watson stumble round to him and back away up the ramp with him. Tony Chimel announces the result to boos but Punk – now reunited with the World Championship belt – holds the steel chair and dares them to come back. As the camera focuses on Punk, he taps his head with his finger as if to tell everybody that he had out-thought Cole once more tonight. Team Angle leave the arena and CM Punk survives ... for now!

The camera switches back to the locker room where we see another one of the Elimination Chamber participants, Jeff Hardy, getting ready for his match tonight. Grisham and Foley remind us of his win over Matt Hardy last week and the chair shot from Matt that he took after the match was over. He has a look of anger on his face as he finishes lacing up his boots and then we see Matt Hardy behind him, warily approaching him ...


MATT HARDY:
Jeff?

Jeff freezes and then lifts his head up and slowly turns around to look at his brother who attacked him last week. His eyes narrow as he looks to Matt and waits for him to say something ...

MATT HARDY:
Jeff, I’m so sorry. I don’t know what ... I ... I don’t know why ... Jeff, I don’t ... Jeff, I’m sorry.

Jeff laughs out loud a little and shakes his head, the apology has clearly not worked for him ...

JEFF HARDY:
You’re sorry? You’re sorry, Matt? That makes it OK does it?

MATT HARDY:
Jeff, I don’t know why I did what I did. Watch the video back, Jeff, I regretted it the moment I had done it.

Jeff looks down, he is clearly disappointed in his older brother.

JEFF HARDY:
Matt, when I came back a few weeks ago, I told you why I was here. I was here to look out for you, I was here to team up with you and live our dream one more time. If I’d known the World Championship opportunity meant that much to you, Matt, you could have had it. All those damn words about living our dream ...

MATT HARDY:
I know, Jeff, I know. I can’t explain it. It just eats away at me inside. You’re my little brother, you’ve had the WWE Championship, I am just so desperate to be the World Champion, I’d do anything. I need you, Jeff, I need you to keep my mind focused on why I became a wrestler ...

Jeff shakes his head and slams down his t-shirt with a look of annoyance ...

JEFF HARDY:
Matt, I know it must kill you inside to have never won one of the big titles here, I know that. But that’s what it has become all about, Matt. You need to relax and enjoy wrestling for the WWE again, the title will come if you chill and you stop stressing out, man.

Matt looks down in embarrassment as the crowd remain quiet and watching intently at the titantron ...

MATT HARDY:
You’re right, Jeff, I know that. That’s why, tonight, it isn’t about winning the Tag Team Championships, it is about Matt and Jeff taking the WWE by storm one more time, about the Hardy Boys ruling SMACKDOWN one more night, it is all about showing Empire who the greatest Tag Team of all time are, man. I need you.

Jeff grimaces as he looks towards his brother ...

JEFF HARDY:
I know you do, Matt. I know.

Jeff reaches out and the Hardy Boys embrace, Jeff accepting the apology ...

MATT HARDY:
Now let’s get out there and kick those sorry British asses!

JEFF HARDY:
Let’d do it!

Reunited, the Hardys exit the locker room and head out into the backstage area as SMACKDOWN fades away into a break ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns and Tony Chimel announces that the following match is for the Tag Team Championships to a big pop in the arena. That pop continues as the music of the challengers roars into life in the arena ...

*** LOADED ***
*** HARDY BOYS ***
Jeff & Matt Hardy

A huge pop from the crowd in attendance tonight as the ever popular Brothers Hardy appear on the stage – still a little bit of tension clearly in the air – and start to head towards the ring. Running down the ramp, both Hardys slide under the bottom rope and they leap up onto the corner ropes to salute the crowd as Grisham and Foley speculate over last week and how it will impact on their teamwork tonight. Foley suggests that it is all about Jeff – if he has truly forgiven Matt, there will be no trouble; on the other hand, if something is lingering, that could be a problem. In the ring, Matt holds out his fists towards Jeff looking for the fistpump but Jeff hesitates at first – it is clear that something is still lingering somewhere inside Jeff. However, he eventually does touch fists with Matt and they turn to await their opponents and the Tag Team Champions ...

*** RULE BRITANNIA ***
*** BRITISH EMPIRE ***
*** WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN ***

(w/ Finlay) | Tag Team Champions

With Finlay waving the Union Jack high and proud, the Empire walk out with the Tag Team Championship belts gleaming around their waists as they head towards the ring. However, there is a look of concern on the face of William Regal and the Empire don’t have their usual bravado as they approach the ring. Grisham introduces a video clip from SMACKDOWN a fortnight previous that shows the Hardy Boys victorious over the Empire in a non-title match and suggests this could be the reason for the concerned look of Regal. As they enter the ring, a ‘U.S.A’ chant from the crowd hardly helps Regal and Ryan to settle as they hand over the title belts to the referee, what a chance here for the Hardys to regain the Tag Team gold that they last held almost a decade ago.

Match #2 said:
TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
BRITISH EMPIRE (w/Finlay) (c) vs. HARDY BOYS


Much to the delight of the crowd, the Hardys start out the quicker and they catch the Empire off guard as they work perfectly as a team to isolate Regal and it’s like the clock has been rewound to a decade previous. Quick tags between Matt and Jeff hide the issues that they have had between them this week and Regal is being made to pay for it as a snarling Mason Ryan walks back and forth on the ring apron. Even Finlay is unable to catch the Hardys off guard as his leap onto the apron is met with a clothesline from Matt that knocks him down to the floor and onto his ass. Regal is desperate to get across the ring to make the tag but he is unable to do so until Ryan comes into the ring to break a pinfall attempt from Matt, draws the attention of Matt and the referee and allows Regal to regain his senses and then poke Matt Hardy in the eye to buy some time. As Hardy clutches his eye, Regal makes the tag and in comes the wrecking machine, Mason Ryan. He uses his power to bully Matt now and it is time for isolation of one of the Hardys instead.

And so begins the punishment for Matt. Ryan and Regal take turns to have a go with Matt, Regal hitting suplexes and stretches, Ryan hitting power moves that would weaken any WWE superstar. However, despite the beating, Matt isn’t for losing and they cannot find a way to keep him down on the mat for 3. A big boot from Mason Ryan fails when Matt gets his foot on the ropes; A Regal Stretch fails when Hardy manages to get to the ropes again. When Regal pulls out some brass knucks in desperation, Jeff Hardy comes in and knocks them out of his hands before pounding away at him instead. It appears to be the break the Hardys need until the referee ushers Jeff out and Mason Ryan comes in and drags Matt back to their corner and hits a powerslam to give Regal time to recover. With Matt struggling to make a comeback and struggling to make a tag, the crowd lose enthusiasm until Matt does find a way when he catches Regal with the Side Effect out of nowhere. With both men down, the crowd sense a real chance here and they encourage Matt as he slides across the ring towards Jeff’s outstretched hand. Mason Ryan illegally enters the ring at just the right moment though, he kicks at Matt and the referee gets in his path and shoos him away. Matt makes the tag to Jeff but the referee doesn’t see it and when Jeff comes in after Regal, he tells Jeff to leave the ring as well to the annoyance of the crowd. As Jeff protests, Regal grabs Matt and hits a German Suplex and holds for the pin ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Kick out from Matt! Regal manages to tag in Ryan though, the ref sees this one and we’re back to Matt being in trouble.

Mason drags Matt to his feet and drives a couple of right hands into him before whipping him towards the ropes. Going for a clothesline to the running Hardy, Ryan misses when Matt ducks it and continues into the ropes, Ryan swings again as he comes back but Hardy ducks under again, it looks as if Hardy will counter here. Right hands from Matt Hardy! Matt is fightin back as he comes over to the ropes again ... BAM! Finlay jabs the flagpole through the ropes and Matt’s momentum is stopped, the referee never saw it, Matt crumples over clutching his back where the flag hit him and drops to his knees in pain. An incensed Jeff Hardy rushes across the apron and dives off the ring towards Finlay, catching him with a forearm across the face as revenge. Jeff takes down Finlay but rolls into the announce table himself, a slight wince of pain from Jeff and he is slow to get back up. As he is down though, Matt reaches out for a tag but Jeff is not there. Matt looks around for his brother and sees him getting up off the floor and he shouts down to him, questioning Jeff’s position, as Ryan sneaks up behind him. Jeff tries to warn Matt but it is too late, Ryan spins him round, kicks him in the gut ... POWERBOMB! MASON RYAN CATCHES MATT HARDY WITH THE POWERBOMB! Mason Ryan makes the cover as Jeff tries to get into the ring to save Matt, however, Regal is there on the outside too and he grabs Jeff’s foot and prevents him making the save ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
BRITISH EMPIRE (7:54) via pinfall
A frustrated Jeff pounds the mat in frustration and then turns to unleash a barrage of right hands to Regal who covers up and defends himself. Finlay sneaks up on Jeff and shoves him hard into the ring steps before grabbing the title belts and ushering Regal around the ring to the ramp where Mason Ryan meets them. Regal and Ryan lift the titles up high as the referee raises their hands, big title defence here for the Tag Team Champions as they defeat one of the greatest tag teams of all time. As the camera watches the Empire leave the ring, SMACKDOWN heads into a commercial by focusing on their delighted faces ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with some replays of the aftermath of the last match between the British Empire and the Hardy Boys. As we see the Empire turn and leave the arena with their title belts safe, attention turns to the disappointed look on the face of Matt Hardy as he looks to his brother, Jeff. He asks him where he was and says he should have been there for the tag, Jeff tries to explain but Matt decides to leave without listening to him. Back to the present, the camera switches backstage where we see an angry Matt Hardy in the locker room, still sweating and breathing heavy, slamming things into his bag, a look of fury in his eyes. Matt Striker is the man who gets to him first ...

MATT STRIKER:
Matt ... Matt ... Quick word? What happened out there?

Hardy spins around, still looking angry, as he goes to answer in a loud voice ...

MATT HARDY:
What happened? Didn’t you see it? I took a hell of a beating, took it for the team, took it for the family – yet when I finally get chance to make a tag, my brother, my partner, he isn’t there! Why not? Where was Jeff? Huh?

Striker shrugs his shoulders but then Matt’s gaze turns towards the entrance to the locker room as Jeff walks into it and protests his innocence ...

JEFF HARDY:
Man, calm down, I was there for you, I just ...

MATT HARDY:
Save it, Jeff! I know what you’re going to say, you were going after Finlay, I know. (Jeff nods) Finlay wasn’t in the ring though was he? Finlay wasn’t our opponent, was he?

Jeff opens his mouth to argue back but again, Matt cuts him off ...

MATT HARDY:
You know, Jeff, I understand, I understand it clearly now. I know why you’re back here in the WWE, back here on SMACKDOWN ... It’s not for me, is it? You’re not back here to wrestle as the Hardy Boys no more, that’s obvious to me. All you’ve said of late about this being our dream, about this being what we’ve always wanted to do ... It’s all fake isn’t it?

Jeff looks horrified at the claims of his brother and again he tries to speak but is cut off ...

MATT HARDY:
You don’t care about me, you never have. You’ve got your place in the Elimination Chamber, you’re set for the chance to win the World Championship, what the hell do the Tag Team Championships matter to you? Nothing!

Matt raises his voice further as Jeff looks on stunned ...

MATT HARDY:
I’m here on SMACKDOWN, I have been for months now, fighting for a chance, giving it everything and getting nowhere. You coming back here, I thought it would be just like old times but ... No. It isn’t. You’re still the same Jeff Hardy, the egotistical, self centred Jeff Hardy ...

JEFF HARDY:
That’s just not true, Matt. I told you earlier, if the World Championship means that much to you, then you can ...

MATT HARDY:
Oh, give it a rest, Jeff. I know your priorities now, just go to the Chamber, do your thing and stop worrying about me.

Matt is silenced by the appearance of SMACKDOWN General Manager Michael Cole in the locker room.

JEFF HARDY:
Just what we need, what the hell do you want, Cole?

Michael Cole looks at Jeff with a incredulous look on his face ...

MICHAEL COLE:
I’m the General Manager of SMACKDOWN, Jeff, don’t forget that.

Jeff storms out of the locker room shaking his head, he is clearly frustrated over what is happening here tonight ... Meanwhile, Cole turns to Matt Hardy who looks at him with a glare. Cole smirks at Matt and then raises his hand and gives him the thumbs up. Matt looks confused for a second ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Good work, Matt. Like I said last week, this is a Matt Hardy I can work with ...

Cole spins around and leaves the locker room as Matt looks on frustrated still, the crowd not sounding impressed outside, his dream of being Tag Team Champion shattered here tonight. The camera returns to the ring where Grisham and Foley discuss the situation, Foley says that Matt needs to look back at the tape and re-think his words here tonight ...

*** REALEZA ***
*** ALBERTO DEL RIO ***
(w/ Ricardo Rodriguez) | Intercontinental Champion

As Del Rio heads out to the ring, Rodriguez introducing him in Spanish, Grisham directs attention towards him and reminds us of the issues between Del Rio and his fellow Mexican, Rey Mysterio. Del Rio enters the ring and shakes his white scarf around before holding his Intercontinental Championship up for all to see before he turns to wait for his opponent tonight ...

*** RADIO ***
*** ZACK RYDER ***

Long Island Iced Z himself comes out to a decent ovation, he is getting more and more over with the crowd who are sympathising with his plight of late after the betrayal of his former partner, Curt Hawkins, who, along with his new partner Jack Swagger, have made Ryder’s life hell over the last few weeks. With a Flip video recorder in his hand, Ryder heads to the ring greeting the fans enthusiastically before stepping into the ring, the red light on his camera showing that he is recording this live for his YouTube show. As Ryder salutes the fans though, Del Rio, not waiting for Ryder to stop filming, rushes over and attacks him, the referee signals for the bell and then removes the camera to the outside – maybe the footage will appear on YouTube later this week?

Match #3 said:
SINGLES MATCH
ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. ZACK RYDER


To be honest, Ryder’s opportunities here are limited as he is fed to Del Rio – the Mexican making short work on the Long Island Iced Z who has work to do in the ring if he is to make it here in the WWE. Despite hitting the Broski Boot to Del Rio early on as he mounts a comeback from the early attack, he is unable to connect with the Rough Ryder and Del Rio makes him pay by dominating him for the rest of the match. Ryder makes one more comeback and again goes for the Rough Ryder but the Intercontinental Champion ducks it, catches Ryder off guard, rolls him over and locks in his feared submission hold – DEL RIO LOCKS IN THE CROSS ARM BREAKER! Ryder tries to fight but there is little doubt over what is going to happen here ...

** TAP **
** TAP **
** TAP **

WINNER:
ALBERTO DEL RIO (3:54) via submission
The referee tells Del Rio to release Ryder but he refuses – for some reason, Del Rio has taken offence at Ryder! He keeps the Cross Arm Breaker locked on as Ryder taps out some more before finally releasing it when the referee threatens to reverse the result. As Del Rio steps back from Ryder, Curt Hawkins and Jack Swagger both roll into the ring and look to Del Rio with a grin on their faces. Del Rio stands in the corner and tells them to enjoy themselves ... Swagger grabs Ryder’s leg and here it comes ... ANKLE LOCK! SWAGGER HAS THE ANKLE LOCK ON RYDER! Zack writhes in pain, tapping some more, Hawkins goes to the top rope as Swagger continues to keep the hold locked on ... HEAT SEEKING ELBOW! HAWKINS DROPS THE ELBOW INTO RYDER’S BACK! The crowd are jeering as Swagger continues to keep the Ankle Lock on, he is trying to severely injure Ryder here and Hawkins goes to the top rope again ... Del Rio looks on with a smile as he lays a few boots to the head of Ryder, punishing him, taunting him over the fact he thought he could come out here and face him tonight as an equal. Suddenly, the rescue mission is here ...

*** BOOYAKA, BOOYAKA ... 619! ***
*** REY MYSTERIO ***

The ‘Master of the 619’ comes flying out of the backstage area in his mask and runs down towards the ring where Hawkins, Swagger and Del Rio decide to take their leave and vanish from the ring. Mysterio slides under the bottom rope and consoles Ryder who is in pain still whilst he stares out towards Del Rio who is looking smug as he backs up the ramp with Ricardo carrying his Intercontinental Title belt. As Del Rio taunts Rey, Mysterio leaves Ryder for a moment and grabs a microphone.

REY MYSTERIO:
Keep running, Del Rio! That’s not a problem to me, no more, you see, I have some news for you. In nine days, at the Elimination Chamber, you are going to pay a heavy price, voy a tomar lo que es valioso para usted, I will take what is precious to you. You are going to face me for the Intercontinental Championship!

Upon hearing this news, Del Rio shakes his head in stunned disbelief, he clearly doesn’t want to defend the title against Rey but it appears he will have to! Ricardo tries to calm him down but to no avail, Mysterio, still knelt over Ryder, smirks as he looks out towards his rival. Grisham and Foley excitedly discuss the turn in events and Foley suggests that Mysterio is a real threat to the reign of Alberto Del Rio in nine days time as we head into another commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with Matt Striker stood in the interview pit looking slightly nervous as he waits ...

MATT STRIKER:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time ... the BIG SHOW!

Boos echo around the arena as the World’s Largest Athlete comes into view, a look of contemplation on his face as he awaits Striker’s question ...

MATT STRIKER:
Show, earlier tonight, you told the world that you were planning to win the World Championship in nine days time. Tonight, you face Kofi Kingston, a man who many people believe you can’t beat ... Your thoughts?

Striker wilts as Show glares down at him, he is clearly annoyed with the question ... Show reaches over and takes the microphone aggressively before shoving Striker aside ...

BIG SHOW:
Kofi Kingston might have you fooled Striker, he might have all of these Milwaukee idiots fooled and he might have everybody at home fooled but, Kofi, you don’t fool me. I see it. I see the fear in your eyes every time you see me. Sure, you’ve got a couple of cheap, fluke wins over me but now I’m a changed man. I’m the Giant of the WWE, I’m the World’s Largest Athlete, I am over seven feet tall and I have the single most devastating right hand in the business. And you know I have, don’t you, Kofi? After all, I’ve been knocking you flat on your ass left, right and centre lately. Tonight, nine days from the Elimination Chamber, I am going to make an example of you, Kofi. I am going to leave you out cold in the middle of that ring to send a message to the rest of them. The Giant has awoken ... be afraid.

Show slings the microphone back into the chest of Striker, looks at him with disdain and then exits the interview area. The camera switches to the locker room where Kofi is stood watching Show’s words on a monitor. Josh Mathews is there to speak to him as there are cheers from the WWE Universe watching outside ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
You just heard the thoughts of Big Show, Kofi. What is your reaction to that?

Kofi looks thoughtful for a second before answering ...

KOFI KINGSTON:
Josh, there is no doubt about it, man, Show is a huge obstacle in my path to becoming the World Champion. His right hand, he’s right, it’s a stinger for sure, I’ve been on the receiving end of it several times of late. But, Show, you seem to forget that however many times you connect with that right hand, I keep getting back up. Show, have you noticed that you can’t keep me down? You can’t keep me down for 3 in the ring and you can’t keep me down outside the ring, I keep getting up and I keep coming back. (Quote marks signalled by Kofi, the quotes are popular tonight!) ... The Giant may have ‘awoke’ as you say, Show ... But don’t you forget that even giants can have ... Trouble in Paradise.

Cheesy end from Kingston as he walks away to prepare further whilst the camera returns to ringside ready for the battle between the two of them ...

*** CRANK IT UP ***
*** BIG SHOW ***

As Big Show heads out looking menacing as usual, Grisham brings us some exciting news from Twitter and the account of the SMACKDOWN General Manager, Michael Cole. Next week, on SMACKDOWN, Cole has arranged for a Tag Team match between Curt Hawkins and Jack Swagger, they will face off against the team of Rey Mysterio and Zack Ryder. Foley agrees that that match will be interesting but then he suggests we have an even more interesting match to come right here, right now. Replays of Big Show being taunted on RAW by Kofi last Monday are shown before we see Show’s WMD Punch to Kofi that caused his defeat to Miz. As we return to the ring from the footage, Show looks ready to destroy Kofi here tonight ...

*** S.O.S ***
*** KOFI KINGSTON ***

An excited Kofi Kingston heads out into the arena and the stage explodes in green and yellow. As he bounds down the ramp, Kofi looks pumped up and ready – after months of being so close to the World Championship, Grisham asks, can Kofi finally make that last jump to superstardom next Sunday in the Chamber? Foley says that Kingston is so close to it and that next Sunday could be his moment to shine – however, he has a huge barrier to overcome tonight first, Big Show has shown he isn’t to be messed with lately. As Kofi leaps up onto the ropes to salute the fans, Foley says he thinks Kofi is a future World Champion but he doesn’t see it happening next Sunday night while Show is in his path.

Match #4 said:
SINGLES MATCH
BIG SHOW vs. KOFI KINGSTON


These two have built quite the rivalry of late and go at each other immediately from the bell looking to get the advantage. The speed and agility of the Ghanaian mean that he is able to avoid the powerful right hands of Show and he launches a series of kicks and to the waist and thighs of the big man that stagger him back. Show manages to shove Kofi away as if he were swotting a fly and sends him clattering through the ropes to the outside with ease. The referee demands that Show stays in the ring but he heads out anyway and stalks after Kofi and grabs him by the back of the neck. Kofi is rammed shoulder first into the barricades as the ill feeling between the two of them begins to show. As the referee counts the pair of them out, Show climbs the steps and over the top rope to break the count. Kofi manages to re-enter at 7 and the match continues. Again, Kofi looks to hit a number of kicks and he manages to stagger Big Show again before he hits the ropes and leaps into a clothesline. A second clothesline follows as Kofi looks to take Show down, a third could do the trick ... No! Big Show shoulder blocks Kofi and he bounces off him and crashes down on the mat as Show looks down on him. As Kofi gets back up, Show grabs him by the throat and lifts him for the Choke Slam, Kofi manages to jump clear though and he bounces back up to connect with a drop kick to the mammoth chest of Show who drops to his knees. Kofi climbs to the top rope quickly, he leaps off as Show turns towards him, Diving Crossbody ... Show catches Kofi in mid-air and repositions him ... Fallaway Slam! Kofi bounces off the mat and out of the ring again as Grisham questions whether or not he can recover from this?

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

When SMACKDOWN returns, Big Show is now in complete charge of the match and he is dominating Kofi who is struggling. We have several minutes of this with Kingston trying to feed off the chants from the crowd but he is unable to get back into the match although Show cannot put him down once and for all. Things turn more serious when Show pulls down his strap and clenches up his fist after hitting a shoulder block to a countering Kofi, it appears to be time for the WMD. Show pulls back and waits as Kofi looks to be walking straight into it but at the last second, Kofi ducks it ... BAM! Show’s right hand crashes into the face of the referee instead and he is knocked completely cold to the dismay of the crowd who wince for the referee. Show looks down at the ref in anger at missing but then he is caught by Kofi who leaps onto his shoulders and begins pummelling away at his face, the crowd roaring him on. Show manages to shove Kofi down to the mat but he is shaken and this gives Kofi his chance. As Show staggers from his knee, Kofi spins around and looks to end the match but Show ducks the Trouble in Paradise, spins with a degree of agility, catches Kofi by the throat ... CHOKE SLAM! SHOW HITS THE CHOKE SLAM TO KOFI! As Show covers Kofi for the pin, another referee comes sprinting towards the ring down the ramp ready to make the count ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** KOFI KICKS OUT! **

The delay of the official obviously cost Show the win there and he looks agitated as he threatens the referee who has come down. A anguished cry from Show follows and he steps over the top rope and looks under the ring before tossing two steel chairs up and into the ring. The referee waves his arms as Show comes back in and looks set to waffle Kofi with one of them right now. Show is waiting for Kofi to get up, chair in his hands, ready to strike ... but the referee rescues Kofi and catches the chair and pulls it away from an unsuspecting Show as he raises it. Show looks furious now and he intimidates the official who looks scared for his life here. Show advances on the ref and forces him back to the corner before grabbing him by the throat with both his massive hands. Show lifts the referee up into the air and looks to set up a Military Press, threatening to throw the referee over the top rope and out of the ring. However, Kofi picks up the other steel chair and rescues the referee ... BAM! STEEL CHAIR TO THE BACK OF BIG SHOW! Kofi steps back and waits for Show to turn round before jamming the chair into his gut next. BAM! Show clutches his stomach and chest and falls to a knee as Kofi throws the chair away. The referee missed the shots from Kofi with the chair, Kofi waits ... TROUBLE IN PARADISE! KOFI CONNECTS! Kofi makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
KOFI KINGSTON (11:08) via pinfall
Kofi quickly rolls out of the ring with his hand raised – a wise decision as Show begins to furiously kick at the ropes and throws the chairs out of the ring towards the Ghanaian. However, the crowd are loving the way Kofi pulled that one out – a sneaky use of the chair to give Show a taste of his own medicine. The referee raises Kofi’s hand and then shakes himself off before heading to the first referee and checking on him. As Kingston smiles and turns to leave, Show’s eyes bulge in anger as he stares out after him and Grisham and Foley suggest that Kofi might have made a huge mistake tonight ...

The cameras switch backstage to Matt Striker who is stood waiting to interview Cryme Tyme, Shad Gaspart and JTG ...



MATT STRIKER:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome JTG ... Shad ... CRYME TYME!

Decent pop for Cryme Tyme who returned from injury last week after the ‘alleged’ assault on them by the British Empire during the Royal Rumble PPV a couple of weeks ago ...

MATT STRIKER:
Guys, I gotta’ ask you ... At the Rumble, we saw you injured in the backstage area. Who was it who attacked you?

JTG and Shad both look at Striker with raised brows and laugh at him a little ... It is JTG who speaks up to answer ...

JTG:
Matt, whassup man? You saw the Rumble, you know what went down that night. The Empire boys, they don’t wanna fight wit’ us, they took the cowards way out, ain’t that right, Shad?

SHAD:
Yo, you know that’s right, Jay. Instead of facing us as part of the Turmoil match, they jumped us from behind and beat us down like dogs. Man, we worked hard for our spot in that match and they took it away from us just like that.

MATT STRIKER:
So guys, you confirm it was the Empire that attacked you?

JTG and Shad nod their heads with looks of annoyance as they think back to the Rumble ...

JTG:
Yo, it was definitely them, man. But they done made us boys mad now, dawg. They’re in big trouble now, we have our sights on their Tag Team titles and we won’t quit until we take them. Ya’ feel me, big man?

SHAD:
That’s right, Jay, we gonna’ chase down those British duh-ta-duhs and we gonna’ show them what happens when you mess with Cryme Tyme, when we get our chance, it’s gonna’ be off the hook ...

JTG:
Yo, Shad, you’re right. And Hart Dynasty, just so you guys know, we plan on winning those titles real soon. I know you guys got a beef with the Empire too but we can’t wait. If you get in our way, we gonna’ have to take you guys down too. We’ve warned you boys, yo yo.

JTG and Shad salute Striker before turning to leave and they exit the interview pit as SMACKDOWN heads into another break with the Tag Team division bubbling away nicely after JTG and Shad’s words for the Empire and the Dynasty ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with a replay of Michael Cole making match announcements earlier tonight, specifically the one where he pitted two of the Chamber participants together – Christian and Undertaker. Grisham and Foley hype the match up as we prepare for it to begin here before also mentioning the other massive main event match here tonight on SMACKDOWN – John Cena against a mystery opponent from RAW as chosen by Randy Orton for the Beat the Clock challenge. The lights suddenly go off in the arena and a gong echoes throughout ...

*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***

*** GRAVEYARD SYMPHONY ***

*** THE UNDERTAKER ***

The crowd here in Milwaukee go wild as the Phenom of the WWE, the Deadman himself, The Undertaker makes his way slowly out to the ring with eerie blue lights floating around in the darkness and balls of fire raising from the stage – one of the greatest WWE entrances of all time, if not the best. As ‘Taker makes his way towards the ring, Grisham and Foley discuss the chances of Undertaker in the Elimination Chamber in nine days time – Foley says people would be mad to bet against this man after what he has accomplished in his career. However, the fact he has been away for so long, could that work against him? Undertaker stands on the ring steps and raises the lights as Grisham introduces footage of Undertaker finally burying Kane alive last week to end their feud and qualify for the Chamber match ... In the ring, Taker removes his hat and coat and rolls his eyes as he looks around at the arena. Suddenly, the arena comes alive once more as the lights and music of another popular WWE superstar start up as well ...

*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***
*** CHRISTIAN ***

Foley and Grisham discuss the dream of Christian to win the World Championship and Foley says he believes that, in nine days time, somehow, some way, Christian’s dream is going to come true. He says that despite the odds that he will have to overcome – the World Champion CM Punk, the Deadman, the World’s Largest Athlete, the Breakout Star of the WWE and the returning Jeff Hardy – he believes that this is Christian’s moment, his time to shine. As Christian enters the ring, he looks confident but respectful for Undertaker, his opponent tonight, who blankly stares at him. Christian jumps up the ropes to salute his crowd and survey his Peeps in the arena before he jumps down, removes his shirt and then stands opposite the Deadman waiting to start ...

Match #5 said:
SINGLES MATCH
CHRISTIAN vs. THE UNDERTAKER


These two have a good back and forth match where Christian is able to show that he belongs in such vaulted company as he takes the fight to Undertaker in the early stages. At one point, Christian has the Killswitch locked in but Undertaker is able to counter it with Snake Eyes instead and then a huge flying lariat clothesline to take control. A little while later, Christian is the one that manages to counter as Undertaker goes for Old School but Christian manages to yank Taker down from the top rope and over onto his back, a great defensive move. As Taker gets up, Christian goes for it again, can he get the Killswitch? No, Taker counters by shoving Christian away, Christian spins round ... CHOKE SLAM! UNDERTAKER WITH THE CHOKE SLAM! Taker makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CHRISTIAN KICKS OUT! **

As Taker looks out of the ring where Christian staggers towards the barricade, the referee advises him to stay in the ring but he clearly won’t be doing that. Taker steps back through the ropes and heads out after Christian, these two fan favourites now looking to take the action to each other on the outside, Taker catches up to Christian and hits a number of choke thrusts that hurt Christian a little more. Undertaker takes the wrist of Christian and looks back at the ring steps, he goes to whip Christian into them but it is reversed, to the delight of the Peeps in attendance, Taker crashes into the ring steps with a smash before falling over them, hurt. Christian has bought himself some time here and he slides back into the ring to recover as the referee begins to count Taker out. However, Christian has something to prove here, he climbs to the top rope and waits for Taker to step forward before he dives off and looks for a Plancha from the top rope, Taker dodges and shoves Christian on his way and he collides with nothing except the ground. Writhing in pain, Christian is down and out and Taker drags him up to take him back to the ring. He walks him back down the aisle and rolls him under the ring and the referee immediately checks on Christian to ensure his health is not in any danger. Bad move from the referee though, he takes his eyes of Undertaker for a moment ...

BAM!

Boos erupt around the arena as we see Big Show creep up on Taker unannounced and he smashes him hard in the side of the head, knocking him cold, before he edges around the ring with a look of fury on his face. The referee notices Undertaker out cold on the outside and looks puzzled but it becomes clear when he sees Big Show slide into the ring ... The ref protests against the presence of Show but then he shoves him aside and waits ... WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION PUNCH TO CHRISTIAN AS WELL! The referee signals for the bell before getting out of the ring ...

WINNER:
NO CONTEST (7:36)
With Christian out cold, Show looks down on him with a semblance of a smile on his face. He uses his mammoth feet to roll Christian’s unconscious body out of the ring and then he demands to be handed a microphone. The crowd are booing Show for interrupting the match and Foley isn’t pleased either, he says he was looking forward to seeing how that match would finish. Show has a microphone now and he angrily begins to speak ...

BIG SHOW:
You know what? There’s been a lot of crap spoken about me lately, a lot of uneducated drivel from you fans, people saying that I’m a danger, a liability, that I should be kicked out of the WWE. I’ve knocked out a few people that you like to cheer for and you aren’t happy about it ...

Show takes a breath before continuing ...

BIG SHOW:
So when I come out here tonight and had my match with Kofi Kingston, what a shock it was that when he used a steel chair to beat me, none of you booed or complained then? You’re quick to judge me but it is OK for Kofi to do it, yeah?

Show wipes the sweat from his face ...

BIG SHOW:
The WWE Universe seems to think they can demand that I am kicked out of the WWE for knocking people out so I’m out here to make a complaint of my own. Michael Cole, I am not leaving this ring until you come out here and inform me of how Kofi Kingston is to be punished for his actions tonight ...

Show lowers the microphone as SMACKDOWN heads into a commercial with the Giant of the blue brand stood tall in the ring waiting for an answer from the General Manager ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns with Show still stood in the ring waiting and the WWE Universe booing him. He is mouthing off at some of the fans here in Milwaukee, he doesn’t seem to care about what they think of him right now. As Show waits, he begins to look annoyed again ...

BIG SHOW:
Where are you, Cole? I want an answer from you right now.

More jeers and boos as Show continues to hold up the show here tonight ...

???:
Can I have your attention please?

More boos echo around the arena as the SMACKDOWN General Manager appears on the titantron from his office. He looks annoyed with the fact that SMACKDOWN is being held up here tonight ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Big Show, what do you think you are doing? Get out of the ring, you are holding up MY show!

Heat for Cole for referring to SMACKDOWN as his show ...

BIG SHOW:
Cole, I want to know how Kofi will ...

MICHAEL COLE:
We don’t always get what we want, Show. On Monday night, John Cena and I wanted you to go out and destroy Randy Orton but you couldn’t do that could you? 4 minutes and 43 seconds? It’s a good job I was there to think fast and punish Orton further isn’t it?

Show looks a little annoyed ...

BIG SHOW:
Cole, I went out there and I did you and Cena a favour, I gave it ...

MICHAEL COLE:
You know what, Show? How’s about you cut the whining and get out of the ring now?

Show continues to refuse to leave but there are cheers in the arena now as behind Show, Taker is back up from being knocked out earlier. Show senses his presence and spins ... CHOKE SLAM! UNDERTAKER CHOKE SLAMS BIG SHOW! The crowd cheer Taker but then Christian also gets up on the ring apron. A quick look at Undertaker is followed by him heading to the top rope ... FROG SPLASH! CHRISTIAN HITS THE FROG SPLASH! The crowd love it and they cheer as Christian and Undertaker look across at each other, respect in their eyes but a burning desire, a desire to be the World Champion in nine days time at the Elimination Chamber. Grisham and Foley hype up the SMACKDOWN Chamber match once more before hyping up the main event to come ... John Cena has to defeat a mystery opponent from RAW in 14 minutes and 43 seconds in order to get to choose the stipulation for his upcoming match with Randy Orton at Elimination Chamber. Can he do it? Who will Orton send from RAW? Find out next!

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

SMACKDOWN returns and it is time for the main event and Cena’s opportunity to earn the right to choose the stipulation for his match with Orton in nine days time ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***
*** JOHN CENA ***
2011 Royal Rumble winner

Huge boos greet the arrival of Cena, as usual, but he isn’t bothered as he heads out and waves his hand across his eyes before rushing down to the ring. When he arrives there, Cena looks at the WWE Universe with disdain before pointing to the WrestleMania 27 sign in the rafters and signalling the World Championship around his waist ... More boos for this. Cena grabs a microphone, he wants to know who he is facing tonight!

JOHN CENA:
Now I know all about the RAW roster, I know that none of the RAW (Air quotes) ... “superstars” ... have balls but I’m intrigued about which one of them thinks he can stop me tonight. You see, when I was on RAW, I beat every single one of them over and over, there is nobody on RAW that can beat me, not even Randy Orton.

Cena grins as he is booed again ...

JOHN CENA:
Now, I already know that whoever this guy is, he is a coward. If he wasn’t, he would have made himself known to Michael Cole or myself already ... Let me tell you something, there is no coward here in the WWE that can last 14 minutes plus with John Cena! That’s a fact!

The titantron sparks into life and we see a limo pull into the parking lot and a shiver of excitement spreads around the arena, which RAW superstar is here?

JOHN CENA:
Come on, you coward, get yourself out here right now!

The camera zooms on the back door of the limo which opens and the crowd wait ... out steps ...


A roar of approval from the WWE Universe as the Number 1 contender for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship steps out of the limo and begins to make his way through the backstage area as Cena stares on in the ring, unsure of how to react here ...

*** AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE ***
*** JOHN MORRISON ***
Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship

In slo-mo, Morrison begins to make his way towards the ring dressed in his sparkling trousers as well as his long coat, his shades covering his eyes, he salutes the crowd as fireworks explode behind him. Morrison makes his way down the ramp and slaps hands with several of the WWE Universe before turning his attention towards Cena in the ring. Handing his shades over to a fan, Morrison steps up the ring steps and removes his coat, he is expecting Cena to start out fast informs Foley, before stepping into the ring. As Foley predicted, Cena goes on the attack immediately as 14:43 appears on the titantron and begins to countdown as soon as the bell rings ...

Match #6 said:
SINGLES MATCH if Cena wins in less than 14:43, he chooses stipulations for his match with Orton at Elimination Chamber)
JOHN CENA vs. JOHN MORRISON


Cena jumps Morrison and starts pummelling away at him but the Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship manages to fight back and then goes on the attack himself. Forcing Cena into a retreat to the corner, Morrison slams into Cena over and over with forearms and, in the end, Cena decides to exit the ring to get away from the fired up Morrison. Standing outside the ring, Cena demands that the referee usher Morrison away and this eats up a large chunk of time as Cena slowly and carefully heads back into the ring. The pair of them now tie up instead and we are back to a wrestling match rather than an all out fight. However, neither man takes the advantage as they battle over the control of the early stages until Cena, after a frustrated peep up at the time on the titantron, surprises Morrison when he doesn’t break clean in the corner and resorts to slapping Morrison in the face.

11:53 REMAINING!

Morrison rubs the side of his face in shock as Cena yells at him and demands that he lie down and take the pinfall like he knows he will do in the end. Morrison and Cena’s rivalry in this match heats up more and Morrison signals that he is going to be the WWE Champion next weekend which makes Cena laugh. Again, Cena goes for a slap to the face of his opponent but the young man is ready for it, he ducks under and then hooks his arms round Cena’s waist ... GERMAN SUPLEX! Morrison has Cena’s shoulders down ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CENA KICKS OUT! **

Cena looks incredibly annoyed now and he hits a sly kick to the mid-section, or so the referee thinks, before grabbing the back of Morrison’s neck and ramming him head first into the turnbuckles. Morrison crashes into the corner awkwardly before Cena grabs his neck again and rams him up and down into the turnbuckle hard. The referee threatens to disqualify Cena and he is forced to relinquish the beating to Morrison for a moment. When Morrison staggers up, Cena is ready though and he begans to pick apart Morrison as the clock winds down further. It appears Cena is focused now as he dominates the match but he remains methodical not desperate ...

09:32 REMAINING!

However, Morrison does not falter either, he is looking to prove that his earning of a Number 1 contender spot for the WWE Championship was no fluke and that he is a legitimate threat to Wade Barrett’s title in one week’s time at the Elimination Chamber. Despite Cena controlling the match, Morrison keeps countering and keeps Cena on his toes as we head into a commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

As RAW returns, Cena and Morrison are back on the outside of the ring and Cena is looking up at the clock with increasing frequency now ...

06:12 REMAINING!

Seeing that he has little over 6 minutes left, Cena grabs Morrison by the back of the neck and rolls him into the ring before following in. However, Morrison was playing a little possum there and he is able to stun Cena with a Roundhouse kick that floors Cena in the centre of the ring. As Cena groggily gets to his feet, Morrison sets for what appears to be a DDT but then somersaults forward and crashes Cena down on his back instead – Moonlight Drive! Is Cena finished here?

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CENA KICKS OUT! **

A loud ‘Ooooh!’ goes up in the arena as Morrison goes close but he continues to take the advantage as he pummels Cena in the corner of the ring. He whips Cena across the ring and then follows up with a high knee in the corner that rattles Cena once more, dropkick to the back. Cena falls over the middle rope, he’d be perfect for a 619, but Morrison decides to springboard off the adjacent ropes, over the top rope where Cena is and drops a leg on the back of Cena’s neck. Cena snaps back into the ring clutching his throat and chest as Morrison scrambles back up to the top turnbuckle, time clicking away for Cena. Morrison surveys the situation from the top rope, waits for Cena to turn ... Missile Dropkick! Cena is down and out, Morrison makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** FOOT ON THE ROPES FROM CENA! **

Desperation time for Cena, a foot on the ropes to prevent Morrison defeating him! Morrison steels himself and then waits for Cena to get up again ... Goes for the springboard Chuck Kick but Cena ducks it and takes a hike out of the ring to gather himself. A look to the clock shows that time is running out here for the Royal Rumble winner as he looks to earn the right to choose the match type when he faces Orton in just over a week’s time. The referee begins the count and, despite his irritation with the way time is ticking away, Cena stays out of the ring and frustrates Morrison a little.

** 8 **
** 9 **
** CENA BACK IN AT 9 – JUST IN TIME! **

Morrison goes on the attack again as the clock displays just 3:37 remaining now, can Cena find a way back into this? Morrison regains control as he whips Cena to the ropes and hits a Tilt a Whirl DDT that crashes Cena down head first into the mat, is this it for Morrison?

** 1 **
** 2 **
** NO! CENA KICKS OUT WITH 3:05 REMAINING! **

Another springboard from Morrison and this time he connects, CHUCK KICK! Cena is down and out in the corner and the crowd come alive as they realise that Cena is perfectly positioned here. Morrison holds the top ropes and looks out from the corner of the ring, a knowing look passes over his face, this is his chance! Up Morrison leaps, springboarding and twisting once more ... STARSHIP ... NO! Cena moves at the last second and Morrison eats the canvas, he fails to his Starship Pain and he writhes in pain on the mat. Cena rolls away and props himself up on the bottom rope in the opposite corner, trying to get his body working again, a look of desperation now in his eyes. With the clock down to 2:33, Cena staggers up and heads over towards the Number 1 contender for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship. Cena hits a clothesline in the corner to Morrison and then catches him with a Sidewalk before a rather ambitious cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** MORRISON KICKS OUT! **

Morrison and Cena both get up quickly, Morrison swings wildly at Cena who ducks and hits the ropes. Shoulder Block! Boos echo around the arena as Cena hits a second Shoulder Block and then a third ... We know where this is leading! Morrison swings wildly again, Cena ducks and goes for the Protoplex but Morrison counters into an X-Factor! Huge cheers in the arena as Cena looks to have blown it ...

01:46 REMAINING!

Morrison makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CENA KICKS OUT! **

A look of pure frustration is etched on Cena’s face now and the time is quickly running out, Orton is going to get to choose their Chamber match type! Cena gets to his feet, unsteadily, and charges towards Morrison and a slugfest begins as they trade heavy right hands. The crowd cheer for Morrison and boo Cena but this is a poor choice from Morrison and Cena’s superior strength wins out. Morrison throws a desperate right that Cena ducks under, he goes for the Protoplex again and this time he connects. Morrison is down on his back and Cena – who would normally go for the 5 Knuckle Shuffle now – tries to lock in the submission hold, the STFU! However, Morrison is able to scramble towards the ropes and he clutches them tight as the clock ticks down to less than a minute remaining! What can Cena do here? Morrison springboards off the ropes and hits another CHUCK KICK! The crowd love it now and Cena is down and out and seemingly finished for the night. Morrison leaps up to the ropes again, twists and turns ... STARSHIP PAIN! Morrison connects!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** CENA GETS A HAND ON THE ROPE AGAIN! **

32 seconds left, Cena has just been hit with Starship Pain. Despite kicking out and showing guts, Cena can surely not recover from this? Morrison though is desperate to win and he scales the turnbuckles once more, he leaps off looking for a Missile Dropkick ... Cena moves at the last second and Morrison crashes down hard on his back. 20 seconds left! Cena comes off the ropes, no waving of the hands ... simply a FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Cena is beckoning for Morrison to get up as the clock ticks away ...

00:12 REMAINING!

... Up staggers Morrison, Cena lifts him to his shoulders, he has time to hit the FU and get the 3! Morrison desperately elbows Cena’s head and he drops him! The crowd roar as the clock ticks down ... down ... Morrison goes for a Roundhouse Kick but misses, Cena lifts Morrison up once more ... FU! CENA HITS THE FU ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT! Morrison crashes down on his back but Cena looks at the clock ...

00:03

00:02

00:01

00:00

Cena looks up at the titantron in dismay as the clock ticks down and reaches 00:00, the FU was too late for him to recover and react with the pinfall. He stares around in shock, Randy Orton will get to choose the stipulation for Cena’s match at Elimination Chamber with the Viper! Cena looks like he cannot believe what has happened and he clutches his head with his hands as he looks back up at the titantron where 00:00 remains stubbornly in place. Cena angrily kicks the ropes in frustration ... but then John Morrison surprises him and rolls him up for a pinfall ... The match is still going ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER:
JOHN MORRISON (15:04) via pinfall


Worse for wear, Morrison retreats to the corner, staggering but victorious, the cheers of the crowd ringing through the arena as he holds his arm up high – what a huge victory for Morrison! The Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship pulls out a win over the man who could well be the World Champion inside the next two months! However, Cena is not amused and he rushes Morrison, who doesn’t see it coming, and he smashes him hard in face. Cena has lost it and is pummelling the life out of Morrison over and over and over ... Morrison covers up as the referee tries to calm Cena down but Cena isn’t going to be calmed. He drags Morrison out of the corner and then lifts him onto his shoulders once more ... FU! CENA HITS THE FU TO MORRISON! Boos ring out around the arena as Cena cements his status as a bad loser, he looks angry over what has happened. Cena drops out of the ring and grabs a table from under the ring, what is he doing now? Cena sets the table up in the ring and then he looks towards Morrison who is starting to crawl to his knees ...

*** WE ARE ONE ***
*** NEXUS ***
Ezekiel Jackson, David Otunga, Skip Sheffield & Heath Slater

What on earth are these guys doing here?

Cena looks up and sees them coming, confused for a moment, but then he looks to Morrison and a look of realisation spreads across his face. John Morrison is facing the Nexus leader at the Elimination Chamber, that’s why they’re here! Cena stands back and waits for Nexus to enter the ring thinking they’re here to attack Morrison. Cena drags up Morrison and shoves him towards the Nexus who catch Morrison and then allow him to stumble clear before Skip Sheffield suddenly rushes Cena ... CLOTHESLINE! Cena is caught completely off guard as Nexus appear to be assisting John Morrison here for some reason. As Cena rolls out of the ring looking confused, Grisham speculates that Nexus are here to protect Morrison after they left Wade Barrett on Monday Night RAW this week ... Cena staggers up the ramp looking bewildered as SMACKDOWN ends with Nexus raising Morrison’s hand in victory tonight. Morrison eyes them suspiciously and then drags him arm away from them which causes Nexus to step back. Cena is still on stage and looks on in disbelief that he failed to defeat Morrison here tonight. Randy Orton gets to make the decision over their Elimination Chamber match! What will the Viper decide now on RAW this Monday night?


*** END OF SHOW ***

=========================================


ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011
*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

GRUDGE MATCH
(Orton to choose match stipulation)
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Christian vs. The Undertaker

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
Daniel Bryan vs. Kurt Angle vs. The Miz vs. Sheamus vs. Edge vs. ???

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. John Morrison
(Nexus barred from ringside)

UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP
Justin Gabriel (c) vs. Ted DiBiase

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Alberto Del Rio (c) vs. Rey Mysterio

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla vs. Michelle McCool (?)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***

*** 9 DAYS AWAY ***
 
#120 ·
Smackdown Review

Honestly I am starting to get sick and tired of seeing Michael Cole walking around pretending like he owns the place as General Manager and here is to hoping one of these days Cole gets what's coming to him and I mean that in the physical sense, or that Chip Butty personally fires Michael Cole and we can finally have a GM on Smackdown who is worthy of being a GM

Loved CM Punk's promo of how he is talking about being The Best In The World and that is because he is, he proves it each and every single night, he claims it, he is exactly it and he is going to walk into the Elimination Chamber next Sunday as the World Heavyweight Champion and he is going to walk out of the Elimination Chamber still the World Heavyweight Champion and he will headline WrestleMania 27 as the World Heavyweight Champion and if he should face John Cena at WrestleMania 27, he will go on to beat Cena too to retain the title and still be champion

But at least Cole made some good matches by having Punk take on Team Angle all 3 members Angle, Hennig and Watson but Punk somehow still able to survive and outsmart Cole yet again, when will Michael Cole ever learn, that Punk always seems to outsmart him at every turn

Christian vs Undertaker, that match screams a WrestleMania worthy type match, hopefully it leads to a Streak Match between the 2 of them at WrestleMania 27 with Christian trying to end The Dead Man's undefeated streak, either 19-0 or 18-1

Matt Hardy & Jeff Hardy The Hardy Boyz facing The British Empire for the WWE Unified Tag Team Championships, and The British Empire retaining, just goes to show you that The Hardy Boyz are not the same team as they once were, and Matt should do what he always should have done, turn his back on his brother Jeff and be all about himself and not care about the fans, because honestly where has all of that gotten him? No where, but I think you are leading towards a Matt vs Jeff match at WrestleMania 27 but didn't these 2 already go at it at WrestleMania 25 a couple years ago, with Matt winning? So what would be the point of them going at it again at Mania when this feud has already happened, best that these brothers go their separate ways and stay away from one another altogether

Kofi beats Big Show again, just goes to show you Big Show just has lost his edge and that Kofi just seems to be gaining more and more momentum heading into the Chamber match in 9 days for the World Heavyweight Championship

Rey Mysterio returns to Smackdown and it looks like it is going to be Rey vs. Del Rio for the IC Title at Elimination Chamber, I have a feeling Del Rio will somehow pull it out and retain the title

Big Show, definitely loved his promo on Kofi and about how he wasn't going to leave the ring until Cole got out there and made things right where Kofi was concerned, but I loved Big Show laying waste to everyone by knocking Christian out with the KO Punch and giving Taker a KO Punch as well

And what I loved even more was Taker laying out Show with the Chokeslam and then Christian afterwards hitting the Frog Splash on Show

I want CM Punk to change his theme song to Cult of Personality and end up becoming the CM Punk we all know him to be today, the anti-hero, the rebel of the WWE and also he can maybe change his attire too by wearing his Best In The World T-shirt and or his other Best In The World attire by being a non-conformist, stands out above the rest and just goes out there proving why he deserves to be called The Best In The World, and that is because he is, he is the champion after all, and it doesn't matter who he has to beat here because he has beaten them all before


Here is to hoping The Rock is involved in WrestleMania 27, perhaps he and Cena could perhaps end up confronting one another in the build-up towards WrestleMania 27 or even they could confront each other back-stage at WrestleMania 27 perhaps building up to a Once In A Lifetime match between them for next year's Mania for GCB's WWE

But back to the subject of Smackdown itself, loved the main event with Cena having a surprise opponent of Orton's from RAW and the surprise opponent turning out to be the #1 Contender for the WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber, John Morrison of RAW, a first time ever match with Morrison and Cena as your main event, definitely loved it, but what I think I was even more shocked about was Nexus making their presence felt on Smackdown and interfering in the main event and I honestly thought that they were there to attack Morrison but they surprisingly let him leave on his own accord and they attack Cena, gave Cena what he had coming, that is what I loved more than anything but Cena gets away but Nexus surprisingly raising Morrison's hand in victory, I smell a rat here, most definitely and I wonder what Barrett is going to think about this or if Barrett is somehow in on this plan

But loved Morrison upsetting Cena by pinning him in that ring 1...2..3 because it gives Morrison momentum heading into the Elimination Chamber PPV against WWE Champion Wade Barrett especially when they do face each other for the WWE Championship, but now since Cena lost, Orton gets to choose the stipulation for their match at Elimination Chamber but I wonder just what type of stipulation Orton will choose, knowing Orton he will end up choosing a Steel Cage Match or a Last Man Standing Match

But overall great Smackdown episode and I cannot wait until RAW, then it will only be 6 more days until the Elimination Chamber PPV
 
#121 ·
I'm back ... :)


MONDAY FEBRUARY 14, 2011 | @ THE PALACE OF AUBURN HILLS, MICHIGAN | 6 DAYS UNTIL ELIMINATION CHAMBER

RAW begins with replays of the action in the main events of RAW and SMACKDOWN from last week when Randy Orton and John Cena faced superstars chosen by the other as they took part in a ‘Beat the Clock’ challenge where the winner would get to choose the match stipulation for Cena vs. Orton at the Chamber PPV. We see Orton defeat Big Show with an RKO in 4:43 but then have 10 minutes added on as punishment from Chip Butty and Michael Cole for the ‘needless’ RKO to Cole previously. We then switch to SMACKDOWN where we see Cena is facing John Morrison – the number 1 contender for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship this Sunday – with a time of 14:43 to beat. Cena is shown in a cocky mood at first but then the frustration builds as the time decreases until we see that Cena is desperate. However, the clock hits zero and Cena’s FU to Morrison comes moments too late and we see despair on the face of Cena before he is rolled up ... MORRISON GETS THE WIN! Cena goes to attack Morrison but the Nexus appear to protect him and an irate, disappointed Cena is forced out as the commentary team of Foley and Grisham announce that Randy Orton will choose the match type for Elimination Chamber ...

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***



The camera spins around the arena and we see the WWE Universe here in Auburn Hills excitedly cheering and applauding as RAW is set to start. Signs are held up around the arena – “CENA FEARS THE RKO!”, “JOMO – NEXT WWE CHAMPION” and “YOU’RE EITHER NEXUS ... OR YOU’RE BARRETT!” are shown – as well as thousands of flashlights popping as the crowd are revved up and ready for the final RAW before the Elimination Chamber PPV this Sunday.

JIM ROSS:
Hello and welcome to MONDAY NIGHT RAW, my name is Jim Ross alongside the WWE Hall of Famer, Jerry “The King” Lawler and King, we are six days away from one of the final obstacles on the Road to WrestleMania 27!

JERRY LAWLER:
You’d better believe that, JR! By the time we end on Sunday night, we will probably know some of the matches we’re going to see at WrestleMania 27!

JIM ROSS:
We do know that SMACKDOWN superstar and Royal Rumble winner, John Cena, will be in the WrestleMania main event, King. Many questions though – who will he face? We’ll leave that one for SMACKDOWN to decide but also ... What condition will he be in after he faces Randy Orton this Sunday?

JERRY LAWLER:
A lot depends, JR, on the match that Orton chooses tonight. Contract signing live on RAW tonight!

*** WE ARE ONE ***

NEXUS
David Otunga, Ezekiel Jackson, Heath Slater & Skip Sheffield

JIM ROSS:
And this, King, should be very interesting!

Four of the five members of the Nexus appear on stage, their armbands on their arms as they raise them together on stage before heading to the ring. Dressed in black and yellow Nexus t-shirts, JR and King throw to replays of Nexus’ actions on RAW last week when they deserted Wade Barrett in the middle of the 10-man tag match and left him to take the finishing moves of Team Morrison and ultimately a pinfall from his opponent on Sunday at the Elimination Chamber. When the replays end, we see Nexus in the ring, each man holding a microphone and ready to speak. A sense of intrigue has filled the arena although there are still loud boos and jeers for the heel faction ...

The music dies down and then the four men look around at each other as if not sure who is going to speak. In the end, David Otunga is pushed forward to speak first ...


DAVID OTUNGA:
Ladies and Gentlemen, we wanted to come out here and explain our actions of last week to you, the WWE Universe, and to our former partner, the WWE Champion, Wade Barrett.

Jeers for the mention of the British WWE Champion ...

DAVID OTUNGA:
They say that all good things must come to an end and I’m afraid that that is the case for Wade. Since our devastating arrival back last summer, the Nexus have been dominating and destroying the WWE and ... I’m sure I speak for all of us present here ... it’s been fun.

Otunga’s three partners nod their heads at this comment.

DAVID OTUNGA:
The Nexus is all about getting noticed and getting our chance here on RAW. Remember why we took out Bret “The Hitman” Hart?

Boos for this from the WWE Universe ...

DAVID OTUNGA:
That was because he was refusing to give us a chance in the WWE. We went on the rampage to make sure we got our spot in the WWE and then we continued to make sure we got noticed. And, just as we planned, we did just that when Wade finally won the WWE Championship.

Applause from the other three men in the ring as Otunga steps back and allows Ezekiel Jackson to step forward to speak ...

EZEKIEL JACKSON:
You see, this isn’t about us disliking Wade. He has been a great leader of the Nexus and he now has the WWE Championship, he carries it around with him and this Sunday, he will retain that title against John Morrison. Of that, we’re sure. But the time has come for us to end our ties with Wade, the time has come for Wade to stand up on his own and defend that title.

Some applause in the arena for these words ...

EZEKIEL JACKSON:
The fact is though, Wade was appointed the leader of the Nexus back in the summer – because he won the first season of NXT. The goal of Nexus was to get a chance and be noticed. We’ve done that – now we have new goals.

Heath Slater steps forward and pats the big Guyanan monster on the back ...

HEATH SLATER:
That’s right, Zeke, that’s right. In fact, we’ve surpassed those first goals. Not only did Nexus get noticed, we won the WWE Championship and Wade is now defending that week in and week out. That left the four of us though, we were noticed, we were here in the WWE ... But what next? While everything was great for Wade, he was the WWE Champion, what about the rest of us? What was our next goal to achieve?

Jackson steps back as Slater takes the limelight now ...

HEATH SLATER:
So before the Rumble, we four men got together without Wade and we made a pact that we would step out of his shadow and make our mark in the WWE as well. If Wade thought we were going to be henchmen for the rest of our careers, then he was wrong. It is time for us to completely dominate the WWE now.

Slater turns to Skip Sheffield and ushers him forward to take over ...

SKIP SHEFFIELD:
You know, we watched Justin Gabriel leave the Nexus, we saw him win the US Championship and we thought “Hey, we want some of that too!”. This Nexus is about domination. We have set our sights on those Tag Team Championships, we’ve got our eyes on SMACKDOWN, hell, we even got our sights on the US Championship. When we have those titles, we can safely say that the Nexus is here in the WWE ...

Sheffield pauses and looks around ...

SKIP SHEFFIELD:
... we are noticed in the WWE ...

Another pause ...

SKIP SHEFFIELD:
... and we are dominating the WWE.

Sheffield drops his microphone as ‘We are one’ restarts and the others follow suit and toss their microphones aside. The four of them raise their arms in salute and receive heat from the crowd, they may have ditched Barrett but their intentions remain as evil as ever by the sounds of it. The four of them exit the ring and head back towards the stage smiling and patting each other on the back in happiness ...

JIM ROSS:
Interesting words, King?

JERRY LAWLER:
Hmmm, I don’t know about that, JR. Something didn’t make sense to me. Why have they decided to leave Barrett out now? I’m not buying what we just heard ...

JIM ROSS:
Time will tell, King, one thing is for sure. Nexus won’t be in Barrett’s corner come the WWE Championship match this Sunday.

JERRY LAWLER:
And that has got to be a huge advantage for John Morrison as he seeks to become the champ!

JIM ROSS:
Well, next up, King, two of the RAW participants in the Elimination Chamber match go one on one against each other – Sheamus and Daniel Bryan. Which man is going to get the momentum heading into the Chamber where they’re looking to secure the RAW main event spot at WrestleMania 27?

*** COMMERCIAL ***

RAW returns from commercial with another reminder that tonight is the night for Randy Orton’s decision over the match type when he faces Cena on Sunday night at the Elimination Chamber as well as a reminder over the current RAW status for the Elimination Chamber match which will determine the Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 27 – at the moment, it will be Daniel Bryan, Edge, Kurt Angle, The Miz, Sheamus and one as yet undetermined other superstar ...

*** RIDE OF THE VALKYRIES ***

DANIEL BRYAN

A positive reaction for Bryan who comes out and points upwards as he salutes the fans in attendance tonight. As he makes his way towards the ring, King and JR discuss Bryan’s rise up the WWE since he arrived on NXT almost a year ago and how he could end the year as the Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship when he walks out of the Elimination Chamber PPV this Sunday night. Bryan, in maroon trunks as usual, enters the ring and salutes the crowd again before the cheers turn to boos with the arrival of his opponent tonight ...

*** WRITTEN IN MY FACE ***

SHEAMUS
w/ Hornswoggle

The Celtic Warrior strides out to boos with his little buddy, Hornswoggle, sneering at his side. Thumping his chest, Sheamus heads towards the ring as JR introduces footage of Sheamus hitting Bryan with a Brogue Kick on RAW last week and says that tension between these two is simmering as they head into the Chamber this Sunday. King says Sheamus could be the man to watch this Sunday and begrudgingly admits to being impressed by him since he lost the WWE Championship back in September last year. With Hornswoggle at ringside, Sheamus’ attention turns to Bryan and the referee signals for the bell to start the match ...

SINGLES MATCH:
DANIEL BRYAN vs. SHEAMUS (w/Hornswoggle)

With both men looking to collect momentum heading into the PPV on Sunday, this is a spirited and fast paced match as Bryan looks to use his speed and quickness as well as his technical ability against the power and brute force of the Irishman, Sheamus. Initially, the former US Champion fails to do this and Sheamus takes control of the contest and hits some hard hitting offence that Bryan does well to rally against. With the crowd behind him, Bryan hits a running dropkick after dodging a shoulder block in the corner and for the first time in the match, he has the upper hand ...

ENDING: As Sheamus staggers up, dazed and confused, Bryan quickly scales the heights of the top rope once more and hits another drop kick to the pale chest of the Celtic Warrior and sends him crashing to the mat. A series of right footed kicks keep Sheamus down and Bryan looks to drive home his advantage with a vicious roundhouse kick to the side of Sheamus’ head that knocks him goofy for a moment. Bryan picks up a 2 count before heading to the top buckle once more, he steadies himself and looks down on Sheamus on the mat. He sails off and connects with a diving headbutt to the shoulder of Sheamus and makes another cover but again he only gets a 2 count. Frustrated, Bryan looks a little exasperated but then he begins to lock in the Le Belle Lock to Sheamus as he struggles to wind up the big arms of his opponent. The delays in putting it on give Sheamus wriggle room and time but Bryan manages it in the end with the cheers of the crowd ringing out. Sheamus tries to resist it and reaches for the ropes but he can’t get to them ... he does get to one foot though and uses this to roll Bryan up and force him to release at 2. Bryan rolls away but he gets caught with a double handed axe handle to the head – twice – before Sheamus ties him up in the ropes and pounds on his chest leaving red marks all over him. As Bryan groggily crawls back through the ropes, Hornswoggle climbs onto the apron and distracts Bryan, already dazed, to get his focus. Bryan dismisses the attentions of the leprechaun but the momentarily lapse is important ... BROGUE KICK! SHEAMUS CONNECTS WITH A BROGUE KICK! A nod of the head from Sheamus to Hornswoggle, the plan worked perfectly there ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: SHEAMUS (08:48)
A determined looking Sheamus has his hand raised by the referee as Hornswoggle joins him in the ring and they look down on Bryan’s fallen body with a look of satisfaction on their faces. Sheamus has a few words for Bryan about what will happen this Sunday before he beckons to Hornswoggle to leave with him. As Sheamus backs away up the ramp, Bryan raises himself rubbing his jaw and looking down over the loss. JR and King say that Sheamus has picked up a hell of a lot of momentum there and King reaffirms that Sheamus is his pick to win on Sunday night.

The camera switches to the office of the General Manager, Shawn Michaels. A pop from the crowd as they see the popular GM who is on the phone but he ends his call when the Rated R Superstar walks into the room. The pair of them look at each other for a moment, there is still a lot of tension between them over recent events – in particular the Royal Rumble where HBK as a surprise entrant eliminated Edge ...


EDGE:
You wanted to see me?

HBK smirks a little and nods his head, Edge looks on warily ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
I did, Edge, I did. You see, I wanted a word with you over your Elimination Chamber qualifying match from last week.

EDGE:
What about it, Shawn? I beat Jericho, I beat him 1-2-3 and I qualified for the Chamber. And this Sunday, I am going to ...

HBK cuts in and interrupts him ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Yeah, yeah, yadda yadda yadda. That can wait, Edge. I want you to think back to before the match last week, though. I clearly said I wanted a nice, clean finish to determine which one of you and Jericho would qualify – and I didn’t get one.

Edge looks annoyed at these comments ...

EDGE:
You’re kidding me, I beat ...

Another interruption from the GM ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Take a look, Edge.

HBK points to the TV in the corner and the ending of the match from last week, Sheamus and Edge vs. Jericho and Bryan, is shown. Even though Edge picked up the 3 after the Spear, Jericho’s boot was clearly on the bottom rope before the referee counted the 3 ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Jericho’s foot was on the ropes, Edge. (Edge snorts impatiently) Therefore, I have no option but to declare the match as void. I wanted a clean finish to determine the man who would enter the Chamber and I didn’t get it ...

Cheers from the crowd as Edge looks on angrily ...

EDGE:
So what are you saying, Shawn? You want me to fight Jericho again?

Michaels thinks for a second, mocking Edge a little, before answering ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Edge, that is a great idea. Thanks. Tonight, it will be the Rated R Superstar, Edge ... one on one ... against the Ayatollah of Rock and Rolla ... Chris Jericho.

Cheers from the crowd ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
And tonight, there will be a clean, clear winner – or else neither of you will go to the Elimination Chamber.

EDGE:
That is ridiculous, I beat Jericho last week, you cannot do this.

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Do you know what, Edge? The last time I checked, I was the RAW General Manager and I made the decisions around here. I think you’ll find I can do just that.

Edge shakes his head and grabs at his blonde hair, the anger building inside him ...

EDGE:
I know what this is all about, Shawn. You’re jealous of me. (HBK look amused) You’re jealous that I have more titles here in the WWE than you managed in your so called long, storied career ... and you’re jealous that while you are only fit to sit in your little office these days, I can still go out there to the ring every night and compete.

SHAWN MICHAELS:
You know what, Edge? If you honestly believe that crap, that’s your call. I’ll let the good people in the WWE Universe make up their own mind about whether you’ve got a point. It changes nothing though. I’m in charge here, I want a clean and clear winner, tonight I’m going to get one. Now get out of my office and go get ready for your match ...

Edge looks as if he is going to explode and for a second it seems he is about to strike HBK. However, he puffs out his cheeks in anger and turns and heads out of the office. HBK’s face changes from amusement to annoyance and the camera follows his gaze to the doorway as we see Edge exit. Stood in the doorway, listening to everything, is the WWE owner, Chip Butty. In he walks, slowly, arms folded ... He cocks his head a little as he looks at the RAW General Manager ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Interesting ...

Butty walks past HBK and leaves the GM looking confused before the camera switches back to the ring ...


*** BRINGIN’ DA HOOD T’ U ***

CRYME TYME
JTG & SHAD GASPART

The popular New York tag team make their way to the ring and JR announces that tonight they will be involved in a Number 1 contender’s match to determine the next challengers for the Tag Team Championships of the British Empire before reminding us of the Royal Rumble attack from the Empire on JTG and Shad and how it denied them a chance to win the titles. RAW heads into commercial before their opponents appear ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

RAW returns with Cryme Tyme in the ring waiting for their opponents ...

*** NEW FOUNDATION ***

HART DYNASTY
DAVID HART SMITH & TYSON KIDD w/ Natalya

Another popular tag team head towards the ring with Natalya by their side to a nice pop from the crowd in Auburn Hills as JR reminds us that they too had issues with the Empire at the Rumble when they used cheating tactics to defeat them in the Tag Team Turmoil contest. King says that both teams are desperate for a shot at the titles of the Empire and this should be an interesting contest to determine which team gets the chance ...

TAG MATCH FOR #1 CONTENDERS SPOT:
CRYME TYME vs. HART DYNASTY (w/Natalya)

The early action is fast and furious with both teams clearly set on winning the right to face the Empire for the Tag Team Championships with neither side getting control. Tyson Kidd and JTG start out and both men use their high paced attack well to try and gain control. However, when Kidd looks as if a springboard clothesline has done just that, JTG tags in Shad who catches Kidd coming off the ropes and hits a powerful Sidewalk Slam. As Hart Smith looks for the tag and Shad looks over at him, the match is interrupted ...

*** RULE BRITTANIA ***

BRITISH EMPIRE
MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL (w/Finlay)
Tag Team Champions

ENDING: Regal joins the announce team and Ryan and Finlay, with his Union Jack flag, stand beside him watching the match. At first, Regal claims he is there to scout their future challengers and the match continues on until Tyson Kidd manages to drop kick Shad so that he goes up and over the top rope near the announce table. Kidd, sensing a chance, goes for a Suicide Dive and catches a glancing blow to Shad before colliding with the announce table as well. At this point, Mason Ryan interferes and surprises Shad by grabbing him and running him into the steel ring steps. The referee has no choice but to signal for the bell ...

WINNER: NO CONTEST (04:58)
Regal removes his headset and joins the rest of the Empire as JTG and David Hart Smith come to the aid of their partners but they are outnumbered 3 to 2 and Finlay has the Union Jack which he first uses to hit JTG in the gut as he comes off the apron and then on Hart Smith’s knees from the back. The attack resumes and the Empire leave the Hart Dynasty and Cryme Tyme sprawled on the mats outside of the ring before retreating with their Tag Team Championships, satisfied looks on their faces. JR and King denounce them as using cowardly attacks as the crowd jeer them but it is clear that there was no winner of the match and the Empire remain without a challenger for their titles ...

JR switches discussion and reminds us of the first member of the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame as announced last week ...



... before introducing the video that will show who the second man to be inducted this year will be.





*** COMMERCIAL ***


RAW returns with Michelle McCool and Kharma stalking around in the corridor backstage as they appear to be hunting for somebody. Michelle turns into the RAW General Manager office and then beckons Kharma in behind her as she walks towards HBK ...

MICHELLE McCOOL:
Shawn, could I have a word please?

HBK stands up from his chair and looks to Kharma and then back to McCool with a nod of the head ...

MICHELLE McCOOL:
It’s been a few weeks, Shawn, I was wondering whether or not you’d had chance to think about my little proposition for WrestleMania?

The RAW GM sighs and then responds ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
If I’m honest, Michelle, no I haven’t really. You want me to set up a Divas Championship defence for you at WrestleMania 27 but you’re not the Divas Champion. Hell, you’re not even in the Divas Championship match at Elimination Chamber right now ...

McCool looks furious with this answer.

MICHELLE McCOOL:
You’re kidding me, aren’t you? I asked you about this weeks ago, Shawn!

SHAWN MICHAELS:
I know, I know – I guess I decided to leave it until I knew whether or not you’d be the Divas Champion at WrestleMania before I decided to commit to organising the match you want. Isn’t that fair?

MICHELLE McCOOL:
Shawn, I might not be Divas Champion right now but I will be in six days time. One more win on NXT tomorrow night and I am guaranteed a spot in the Divas Championship match at the Chamber and then I shall destroy Layla and Maryse once more and become the Divas Champion again. You can sort it out now, that’s a guarantee.

SHAWN MICHAELS:
I don’t think it is, Michelle. I find it alarming that you would treat the Divas that you need to face with so little respect to think you can just defeat them just like that.

McCool looks on furious and looks to Kharma who shakes her head to indicate her annoyance too ...

MICHELLE McCOOL:
Respect? You want me to respect the other Divas? You want me to respect Layla after the way she tricked me at Cyber Sunday and Survivor Series? You want me to respect a Divas Champion who is absent from the WWE at the mere thought of facing me for the title?

SHAWN MICHAELS:
End of discussion, Michelle. If you win the Divas Championship this Sunday, come back and ...

HBK stops as Chip Butty walks into the picture and stands between McCool and the RAW General Manager. A huge sigh of annoyance from HBK who is clearly irritated that Butty is here tonight ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Michelle ... I know of your proposition, leave it with me. I’ll make the necessary calls and get back to you very soon. You shall have your WrestleMania match, OK?

McCool smiles at the WWE owner, she is delighted with the outcome there. She scowls once more at HBK and then exits the room and leaves the GM and the owner stood facing each other ...

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Forgive me if I am wrong, Chip, but I thought I was the RAW General Manager? I feel as if somebody is here checking on me tonight ...

Butty smirks a little at this comment ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Shawn, that is exactly what I am here to do. Quite frankly, mate, your decisions of late have been a little worrying. Take the RAW Elimination Chamber qualifiers for example?

HBK looks on unimpressed with what he is hearing from his boss here.

CHIP BUTTY:
We’re six days away from the Elimination Chamber PPV, we’ve only got five participants. Sorry, no, you’ve decided to hold your grudge over one of the participants and have insisted on another qualifying match for him tonight, we’ve only got four men. What happens tonight if Edge and Jericho doesn’t end clean, Shawn?

Michaels shakes his head.

CHIP BUTTY:
I think it is clear that you have a personal issue with Edge, Shawn, and it isn’t healthy for a General Manager to allow personal matters interfere with his professional judgements. In addition to that, the sixth spot in the Chamber is still being offered to another member of the RAW roster that just happens to be a close personal friend – even though he has already blown two chances to qualify! What happens if Hunter fails to beat Kurt Angle tonight?

Michaels opens his mouth to respond but Butty cuts him off ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Petty grudges and favouritism won’t be tolerated from the General Manager of RAW, Shawn. You’ve made your matches tonight – Edge vs. Jericho and Triple H vs. Angle. I’ll let them be. But I hope for your sake, Shawn, I hope that by the end of the night, we have two more men qualified for the Chamber.

SHAWN MICHAELS:
Meaning what?

CHIP BUTTY:
Meaning that I am the owner of the company, Shawn. I’ve already got rid of one shoddy General Manager on SMACKDOWN, if I need to make changes on RAW as well, then I will do. I’ve got my eye on you.

With that, Butty turns and exits and leaves Shawn Michaels looking furious as he watches his boss leave. The camera switches back to the ring where we see the Number 1 contender for the US Championship in six days – Ted DiBiase – making his way into the ring ...

*** I COME FROM MONEY ***

TED DIBIASE

JR and King remind us of DiBiase’s win over Daniel Bryan at the Rumble in a Ladder match to earn the right to be the next challenger to Justin Gabriel for the US Championship and that the match will take place this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber PPV ...


... before we see the arrival of his Tag Team partner tonight.


*** AWESOME - I CAME TO PLAY ***

THE MIZ
‘Money in the Bank’ contract holder

Dressed in a long, leather trench coat, out steps The Miz who looks pleased with himself as he heads for the ring. Replays from RAW a couple of weeks ago are shown where we see how Miz qualified for the Elimination Chamber and the chance to earn the right to fight for the main event spot in the WWE Championship match at WrestleMania 27. Miz enters the ring and greets DiBiase as they await their opponents ...

*** AFRICA RISING ***

JUSTIN GABRIEL
US CHAMPION

The South African bounds out onto the stage looking fired up and ready for tonight’s match as he prepares to defend the US Championship against DiBiase this Sunday. Gabriel gets to the foot of the ramp where Miz and DiBiase stand at the ropes looking down on him as if daring him to enter the ring alone. Gabriel stops, unbuckles the title and holds it high as the music of his partner tonight begins ...

*** AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE ***

JOHN MORRISON

The man who will face Wade Barrett at Elimination Chamber for the WWE Championship heads out into his pyro and slo-mo camera entrance as JR and King discuss his victory over Barrett last week – even despite the Nexus ‘betrayal’ of Barrett. JR says that Morrison has a pinfall win over Barrett and things like that can make a huge difference heading into a title match. Morrison and Gabriel greet at the foot of the ramp and then storm the ring which sends Miz and DiBiase running for cover as the popular pair salute the crowd before the referee signals for the bell so the match can begin ...

TAG MATCH:
JOHN MORRISON & JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. THE MIZ & TED DIBIASE

As you would expect from these four young superstars, this match is quick and full of high risk, particularly from the team of Morrison and Gabriel. The match starts with Miz and Morrison renewing their old rivalries that exist from their less than acrimonious split as a Tag Team a year or so ago and they take it to each other as each man looks to get one over his old mate. It is Miz who is forced to tag out to DiBiase in the end but this signals for the arrival of Gabriel as the two men who face each other for the US Championship this Sunday begin their battle early ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

RAW returns with Miz in control with Gabriel in the ring and the US Champion is struggling to get to Morrison for the tag. Miz taunts Morrison and declares that he will be the WWE Champion at WrestleMania 27 before stomping on the lower back of Gabriel to halt him once more. Miz and DiBiase, both former Tag Team Champions, cut the ring in half expertly and frustrate Morrison as he cannot make the tag to his struggling partner.

ENDING: However, as always happens, Morrison finally manages to get the hot tag when Gabriel is able to catch Miz with a roundhouse kick and then dives over for the tag. Morrison comes in as a ball of fire and pummels Miz in the corner before whipping his across the ring and following with a heel kick that crashes Miz down. Miz tags in DiBiase who is reluctant to get in the ring and is right to ... Morrison springboards off the ropes and hits a crossbody to take him down before springboarding off the rope once more for a stunning Chuck Kick. DiBiase holds his hand out for a tag but Miz decides it is time to exit and he drops off the apron to DiBiase’s surprise ... Morrison comes off the ropes again and connects with a running knee that crashes DiBiase down on his back before leaping onto the top rope ... STARSHIP PAIN! MORRISON CONNECTS WITH STARSHIP PAIN! The Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship hooks the leg and the crowd chant along with the referee ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: JOHN MORRISON & JUSTIN GABRIEL (09:36)
Huge cheers as Morrison picks up another pinfall victory as he builds even more momentum as he heads for his title shot at the Chamber in six days. JR says that Morrison looks as impressive now as he ever has done during his time in the WWE and looks ready to shock the world and become the WWE Champion this Sunday. Gabriel enters the ring and embraces his partner before looking down on DiBiase, his challenger for the US Championship this Sunday. A glint in his and Morrison’s eye is clear and Gabriel climbs the ropes ... 450 SPLASH! The crowd cheer as Morrison’s music begins and JR and King tell the world that the pair of them are ready to roll this Sunday ...

The camera switches backstage where Wade Barrett is stood in jeans and a collared shirt, the WWE Championship belt glistening on his shoulder. He looks perturbed as he watches Morrison celebrating victory on a TV monitor and the worry must be over the WWE Championship this Sunday. JR informs us that Barrett is not cleared to be in action tonight but will be fit and ready in time for Elimination Chamber and his title defence this Sunday before Josh Matthews heads into the room clutching a microphone ...


JOSH MATTHEWS:
Wade, a word please?

Barrett turns his icy gaze on the interviewer but says nothing, it appears he is willing to be interviewed ...

JOSH MATTHEWS:
Thanks, Wade. You’ve just watched John Morrison victorious once again tonight, are you in any way worried over your chances of retaining the WWE Championship this Sunday?

Barrett simply stares at Matthews but isn’t speaking, it isn’t like Barrett to be lost for words over something. Josh waits for Barrett to speak but he doesn’t so he decides to ask another question ...

JOSH MATTHEWS:
OK ... err, right. Nexus deserted you last week, Wade. How does that affect your chances of retaining the title this Sunday?

Again, Barrett refuses to speak. He simply looks at Matthews with a scowl on his face, surveying him with a look of interest on his face but not answering. Barrett fingers the edge of his title belt and looks at the writing on the nameplate ... ‘WADE BARRETT’ ... before turning his stare back to Matthews ...

???:
Wade! Wade!

Into view come the four Nexus members that deserted Barrett just last week – David Otunga, Heath Slater, Ezekiel Jackson and Skip Sheffield. It is Otunga that shouted and he is the man who speaks to him now he is here ...

DAVID OTUNGA:
Wade, did you hear what we had to say earlier? Hey man, we’re sorry it had to go down that way but it is better this way. You go your way and defend that title ... and we go our own way and dominate the WWE without becoming pawns in the title picture.

HEATH SLATER:
That’s right, man. We wanted to make a statement just like you always encouraged us to. Deserting you the way we did, well, that was a statement!

Barrett still refuses to speak as he listens to the words of Otunga and Slater, he has a look of unease as he surveys them.

EZEKIEL JACKSON:
It’s real simple, Wade. You are the WWE Champion, you got what you wanted from the Nexus. You can go on now and sink or swim, we go our way and dominate the way we can. No hard feelings, though, hey?

Jackson thrusts his hand towards Barrett and offers him a handshake to show that there are no hard feelings ...

SKIP SHEFFIELD:
That’s right, no hard feelings. You’re the WWE Champ, we’re dominating the WWE. We’ve all won.

Sheffield holds out his hand as well – and Otunga and Slater follow suit. Barrett looks down at their outstretched hands and considers himself for a moment, still without a word being spoken, and then decides to walk away. As Nexus withdraw their hands, they look slightly annoyed as they watch Barrett depart ...

Back at the announce table, JR reminds us that we have two huge matches to finish on RAW before we head to the Elimination Chamber that will hopefully determine the final two participants in the Chamber – Edge vs. Jericho followed by Triple H vs. Kurt Angle. The winner of Edge and Jericho will qualify as will Hunter if he manages to beat Angle. King reminds us that HBK is hoping that the participants for the Chamber can be decided once and for all after Butty’s words for him earlier in the night ...


*** COMMERCIAL ***


RAW returns with the arrival of the Rated R Superstar ...

*** METALINGUS ***

EDGE
Rated R Superstar

As Edge raises his hands on the stage and the pyro fires up behind him, JR and King remind us that Edge believed he had already qualified for the RAW Chamber match until he arrived here at the arena tonight to be told otherwise. JR introduces footage from last week when Jericho managed to get his foot on the rope before the count of 3 followed by HBK’s announcement earlier tonight that he wanted a clean, decisive winner. Back in the ring, Edge is watching the titantron with a look of annoyance on his face but – as King points out – he has no choice but to compete again here tonight.

*** 5 ***
*** 4 ***
*** 3 ***
*** 2 ***
*** 1 ***

*** BREAK THE WALLS DOWN ***


CHRIS JERICHO

A great reaction as Jericho makes his way out onto the stage and the arena lights up once more, here is a man with one more chance to earn his spot in the Elimination Chamber and to get his chance at headlining WrestleMania 27. He is carrying a microphone as he heads down the ramp and he holds his hand up to signal for his music to be faded out as he approaches the ring ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
Listen up, Junior, I’ve got a few words before we kick off again tonight. I know you struggle with the idea of anybody else having an opinion but – for a change – why don’t you listen to what somebody else has to say?

The crowd like these views from Jericho but Edge, unsurprisingly, isn’t impressed ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
I’ve seen all your Twitter comments this week, Edge, I’ve seen your boasts about beating me and qualifying for the Chamber. There was a time when I would have complained to anybody and everybody but I took it on the chin. The referee made a mistake, I accepted it.

Edge shakes his head and points to himself, he still clearly believes that he is still the rightful winner of last week’s match ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
But I happen to believe that Shawn Michaels made the right call tonight. The owner doesn’t appear to agree, you definitely don’t agree but I think these people here tonight agree. You didn’t beat me, Edge ...

Jericho steps into the ring as Edge continues to look annoyed ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
And what’s more, Edge, you can’t beat me!

Edge has to be restrained by the official, he wants to get at Jericho right now. However, Jericho stands back and laughs openly at the Rated R Superstar which infuriates him even more ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
Hey, calm down, Edge. You’ve got another chance right now. All you’ve got to do is beat me clean, no questionable decisions, no cheating tactics, a fair and decisive victory. The problem is, of course, that you haven’t won any match in that way for the last three years.

Jericho grins as the crowd react well to this comment, Edge is still unhappy and having to be held back from rushing Jericho.

CHRIS JERICHO:
So, Edge ... (Jericho steps forward closer to his opponent tonight) ... why don’t you prove yourself tonight? If you think you can beat me, prove it. But all you’re going to get tonight is one hell of an ass whooping from the Ayatollah ...

The crowd join in with Jericho at this point ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
... of Rock and Rolla’ ...

The crowd cheer one of Jericho’s catchphrases ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
... and when I beat you and end your WrestleMania 27 dreams, I guarantee that you will never ...

The crowd again join in and shout “EVER” along with Jericho ...

CHRIS JERICHO:
... EVER ... be the same ... again!

Jericho tosses the microphone away and then removes his gold jacket and tosses it out of the ring as the referee continues to usher Edge back to the corner, he calms down a little and this allows the referee time to check everything is ready and then signal for the bell to start the match ...

ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFIER:
CHRIS JERICHO vs. EDGE

As you’d expect from these two, a great one on one contest with both men trading control of the match and pulling out their usual moves. Jericho seems intent on locking Edge into the Walls of Jericho and almost does so on a couple of occasions but Edge manages to escape with his leg strength or reach the ropes. Fighting back, Edge manages to hit his Inverted DDT move and crashes Jericho down onto his back and then retreats to the corner and signals for his finisher ...

ENDING: Some of the crowd chant ‘Spear!’ in reference to the meeting between these two at WrestleMania 26 last year as Edge stands back in the corner and builds up to hitting his opponent as hard as he can. As Jericho gets to his feet and spins around, Edge charges towards him looking for the Spear ... but Jericho moves and Edge crashes shoulder first into the middle buckle instead. As he bounces back, Jericho lifts his feet and takes him down onto his back before twisting him over ... WALLS OF JERICHO! WILL EDGE TAP OUT TO JERICHO? Lodging a knee in the back, Jericho looks to lock it in completely but Edge is fighting hard here and he makes it to the rope again, so close for Jericho there. The referee signals for the break but as Jericho releases, there is a collision between him and the referee when Edge kicks out his feet in desperation to escape. The referee is knocked through the ropes to the outside and he lands hard on the mats outside. With the referee down, Jericho and Edge resume, Edge throws a clothesline at Jericho who ducks it and takes Edge down with his legs once more ... WALLS OF JERICHO! A SECOND WALLS OF JERICHO! Edge screams out in pain as Jericho this time manages to lodge his knee in the small of Edge’s back and pulls back harder to contort the Rated R Superstar like a pretzel. Edge is desperately clawing for the rope but he can’t reach, he grabs at his hair and pulls at it in pain ...

** TAP **
** TAP **
** TAP **

The crowd goes wild as Edge taps out but there is no referee there to confirm the submission and signal for the bell. Jericho calls out to the referee who is still laid face down outside the ring as he cinches the hold in further, Edge’s right hand tapping the mat as he resigns himself to defeat. With no bell sounding though, Edge realises he is locked in for as long as it takes and he resumes his efforts to reach the ropes. Despite Jericho’s knee, Edge somehow does reach the ropes with a sigh of relief ... but Jericho holds firm and refuses to release! Cheers from the crowd as Edge realises he is still locked in the Walls of Jericho and then Jericho tries to pull Edge out of the corner towards the centre of the ring. Grabbing hold of the buckle in the corner, Edge lifts his body up to counter the pain and Jericho is forced to readjust as he tries to yank Edge from the corner to the middle of the ring. Edge continues to climb up the turnbuckles with his hands though and it becomes a real struggle between the pair of them – Edge desperate to free himself from the hold, Jericho desperate to hold it on as long as he can. The referee is showing signs of life now and looks up at the ring and sees the situation. He starts to edge towards it as Edge grabs hold of the top buckle just as Jericho tries again to drag Edge out of the corner ...

Suddenly, Jericho’s actions prove to be successful, Edge’s hands are ripped from the corner, the turnbuckle pad in his hands, and he lands face down with a thud. Jericho readjusts again and pulls Edge into the centre of the ring ... WALLS OF JERICHO AGAIN! WILL EDGE TAP OUT AGAIN? The referee is sliding into the ring now, Jericho sees him and pulls back ...

** TAP **
** TAP **
** TAP **

A huge roar from the RAW crowd, they see the referee notice Edge’s submission – but he doesn’t signal for the bell. Instead, the referee orders Jericho to break the hold. It becomes clear that the referee saw that Edge had the ropes and had broken the hold and he refuses to declare Jericho the winner. He signals to Jericho that Edge had the ropes and the hold needs to be broke to the dismay of Jericho. As the ref counts him towards a DQ, Jericho releases Edge’s legs and looks at the referee in protestation. Arguing with the referee isn’t going to work though and all it does is give Edge time to recover on the opposite side of the ring. Jericho spots this and, with a thunderous look of fury in his eyes, he rushes over at Edge looking for a clothesline. However, Edge dodges it and sends Jericho on his way into the corner and he collides chest first – with the unprotected top turnbuckle. As Jericho bounces back, clutching his chest in pain, Edge kicks him in the gut and lifts him up ... EDGECUTION DDT! EDGE HITS THE DDT TO JERICHO! He makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** JERICHO KICKS OUT! **

The crowd cheer Jericho’s kick out, they are willing him on to defeat Edge and earn his spot in the Elimination Chamber match this Sunday. However, Edge is ready now, he steps back to the corner and waits and waits ... Up spins Jericho ... SPEAR! EDGE HITS THE SPEAR! The crowd sense the worst as Edge hooks the leg once more ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: EDGE (09:56)
Boos echo around the arena as Edge’s hand is raised in victory, he has defeated Chris Jericho again and now he has secured his spot in the Elimination Chamber and given himself a chance to earn a main event spot at WrestleMania 27. He exits the ring quickly before Jericho can come round and he backs away up the ramp with a look of smugness on his face, he is delighted that he has managed to overcome Jericho one more time here tonight. JR and King regret the nature of the defeat for Jericho and say that he had the match won although King grudgingly admits that Edge fought hard to get the win he needed. RAW heads into another break as Edge reaches the stage and throws his rock hands in the air in celebration of his win ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

RAW returns with Josh Matthews in the interview pit ...

JOSH MATTHEWS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, the man who will challenge Wade Barrett this Sunday for the WWE Championship ... JOHN MORRISON!

A great reception for Morrison in the arena as he steps into shot and slaps Matthews on the shoulder in greeting ...

JOSH MATTHEWS:
John, I gotta’ tell ya, things seems to be working out amazing for you right now. First of all, Nexus desert Wade Barrett to leave it as a one on one match at the Chamber, you win the right to challenge for the title and then last Friday night, you shocked the world and defeated John Cena on SMACKDOWN ... How are you feeling ahead of this Sunday’s big match?

Morrison smiles and slaps Matthews on the shoulder once again ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Josh, I’m feeling great – and not just because of all those reasons you just mentioned, I just feel good right now, I’m in the zone, I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in since I started here in the WWE, I’m on an incredible run and I genuinely feel that I will be the new WWE Champion this Sunday when I kick Wade Barrett’s ass all over Detroit!

Cheers for these comments, the crowd are clearly backing him as he heads into the Elimination Chamber to face Barrett ...

JOHN MORRISON:
For the past few months, Wade Barrett has been speaking about the Winds of Change here in the WWE ... but unfortunately for him, the wind just changed direction. His Nexus protection has left him and he looks, well, worried right now. Now, I’m not saying that Wade won’t be tough, he sure will be, I’m saying that he is going to run into me at the wrong time and the wrong place. My dream has always been to be the WWE Champion and to be the man who headlines WrestleMania. This Sunday, I get to make both of those dreams come true.

Morrison smiles a wide smile as Matthews prepares another question ...

JOSH MATTHEWS:
What do you think of the actions of the Nexus these past few days?

JOHN MORRISON:
If I’m honest, Josh, I’m not interested in the Nexus now. When my team defeated Nexus last Monday night, I eliminated them from the equation, the Nexus are a non-factor this Sunday. Wade Barrett has never won or defended the WWE Championship without some kind of help from Nexus, I’m glad they won’t be out there on Sunday but I couldn’t care less what they’re doing now. This Sunday is what I am focused on, this Sunday is what I am thinking about, when I hit Starship Pain on Barrett, pin his shoulders to the mat 1 ... 2 ... 3 ... and head off on the Road to WrestleMania with the WWE Championship around my waist ...(Morrison’s attention is diverted to the left and into the shot walks Triple H) ... Hey man, what’s up?

Triple H stands next to Morrison and the pair of them look at each other, Hunter is chewing on gum and is dressed ready to compete in the main event next, his chance to secure a spot in the Elimination Chamber match.

TRIPLE H:
John, I’m not here for any trouble. I was just walking past, getting ready for my match tonight with Kurt Angle, I heard what you said and I wanted to tell you ... I’m rooting for you this Sunday.

Morrison nods his head warily ...

TRIPLE H:
You see, last month at the Rumble, I faced Barrett and he beat me for one reason – Nexus. The guy is a fake, he is not WWE Championship material and every day that he carries that title around with him is an embarrassment to me, to the locker room and to this company. This Sunday, I sincerely hope that you can get the job done and take that title away from him.

Morrison doesn’t respond, he simply looks into the eyes of Hunter ...

TRIPLE H:
And then, when WrestleMania 27 rolls around, when I have won the Elimination Chamber match and earned the right to challenge for the title, it will be an honour to face you, John. I respect you, I respect the journey that you have been on, a match between you and me at WrestleMania 27 would be a match that RAW could be proud of and a match I would like to be involved in ...

Suddenly, Morrison holds his hand up and cuts Triple H off ... He has a slight look of annoyance on his face ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Stop it, Hunter. I’ve heard enough. (A confused reaction from the crowd) Why don’t you stop patronising me for a minute and tell me the real reason you’d like to face me at WrestleMania 27 for the WWE Championship? Come on, tell the truth ...

TRIPLE H:
John, John, like I said, I’m not here for trouble, I just wanted to wish you luck ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Oh, cut the crap, Hunter! (An excited ‘Oooh!’ echoes around the arena) I am sick and tired of being thought of as some kind of joke here in the WWE. Whether it is Miz, Barrett or even yourself, the disrespect you show me makes me sick. The real reason you would be honoured to face me at WrestleMania 27 for the WWE Championship is because you think you can beat me with ease, isn’t it?

Triple H backs away a step and holds his hands up in a sign of peace, he isn’t looking for a confrontation and begins to back away ...

JOHN MORRISON:
Where the hell do you think you’re going? Don’t you dare walk away from me!

There is a fire in Morrison’s eyes here, the crowd in the arena are watching on intensely as they hear what Morrison has to say. Triple H, stunned by Morrison’s words, turns back towards him ...

JOHN MORRISON:
You think what everybody else in the WWE Universe thinks, don’t you? Spot monkey. Entertaining but won’t get the job done. Good to watch but lacks that last bit of the jigsaw, that X-Factor he needs to get to the top. A mid-carder for life. Isn’t that true, Hunter? You think that if I can beat Barrett at the Chamber and become WWE Champion, you think that you can walk into WrestleMania and beat me with ease. You know what, Hunter?

There is a determined aggression in the way Morrison is speaking, this is from the heart and it has people interested ...

JOHN MORRISON:
You know what? I am going to prove to the world this Sunday that I am the real deal. I am going to prove to all the doubters, to my partners from the past like Miz, to Wade Barrett and to people like you, Hunter, people who doubt me and look down on me, I am going to prove to you all that I am more than a jumped up spot monkey, I am going to prove that I am worthy of being the WWE Champion and I am going to go to WrestleMania and headline it with the WWE Championship on the line ...

TRIPLE H:
John, I believe you, I believe in you ...

JOHN MORRISON:
No, Hunter, no. You don’t believe in me. You believe in yourself. You think that facing me at WrestleMania will be tantamount to being handed the WWE Championship on the biggest stage of them all. I don’t see it that way, though. I am determined that I am going to prove all the doubters and nay-sayers wrong. And as for you and me meeting in the WrestleMania main event ...

Morrison moves closer towards Triple H who looks a little shocked at this outburst ...

JOHN MORRISON:
I don’t see it happening, Hunter. In your haste to look to WrestleMania and a possible meeting with me for the title, you’re forgetting something. You haven’t won that right yet. Hell, you haven’t even won the chance to earn the right yet. You’ve got a match tonight and you’ve got to win it or else you can forget it. So let me tell you something, Hunter ...

The tension is building now, Morrison’s latest words have annoyed Triple H a little now as well ...

JOHN MORRISON:
You come here and interrupt me and tell me that it would be an honour to face me at WrestleMania 27?

The intensity on Morrison’s face is clear, he is desperate to prove himself on the biggest stage ...

JOHN MORRISON:
I say that it would be an honour as well ... to beat you at WrestleMania ...

Anger flickers in Triple’s H eyes now as Morrison smirks a little ...

JOHN MORRISON:
... if you make it, of course. Good luck in your match tonight.

With a smile, Morrison steps past Triple H who stands watching the Number 1 contender leave with a look of amazement on his face – Where did that come from? As Triple stands there watching Morrison walk away, JR and King announce that his match with Angle is next and RAW heads into another commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

RAW returns with JR and King replaying and discussing the comments of John Morrison towards the Game, Triple H, before the commercial break ...

*** THE GAME ***

TRIPLE H

... before the Game heads out towards the ring, with Morrison’s words ringing in his ears, the green lights spinning around the arena as the main spotlight charters his progress towards the ring. As Triple H jumps onto the apron, he spits water into the air as normal and then climbs through the ropes as JR and King discuss this last chance for the Cerebral Assassin to win a Qualifying match and earn his spot in the Elimination Chamber match this Sunday night where the prize is a shot at the WWE Championship at WrestleMania.

*** MEDAL ***

KURT ANGLE
(w/Team Angle 2)

Decked in red, white and blue, Kurt and his two young teammates – Percy Watson and Joe Hennig – head out into an explosion of red, white and blue pyro as JR hypes up the Elimination Chamber match with Kurt Angle who is already qualified. He reminds us that Edge, Sheamus, Daniel Bryan, The Miz and Angle have already qualified and that there is one spot left. If Triple H can defeat Angle tonight, he earns that spot, if not, HBK has decisions to make. King introduces replays of problems between Angle and Triple H that have escalated since before the Rumble though and says that Angle is desperate to keep Hunter out of the Chamber match if he can ...

ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFIER – IF TRIPLE H WINS, HE QUALIFIES:
KURT ANGLE (w/Joe Hennig & Percy Watson) vs. TRIPLE H

An explosive start to our main event as Triple H goes on the offensive, he is desperate to destroy Angle tonight not only to qualify for the Elimination Chamber and a chance of earning a spot in the WrestleMania main event but also to take revenge on Angle for the problems that he has inflicted upon him in recent times. Pounding away at the former Olympic gold medal winner in the corner, Team Angle try to distract Hunter but the referee orders them down from the apron and they fail in their attempts. This allows Hunter to dominate the early stages and he looks to be heading for victory but then Team Angle get their act together. Whilst Percy Watson distracts the referee by leaping on the apron, Hennig slides into the ring and distracts Triple H who goes to punch his lights out. A right hand connects with Hennig but it provides Angle with a moment to recover and he hits a surprise suplex to Triple H to take control of the match. Slowing it down, Angle has complete control and he begins to work on the knee and ankle of Hunter as well as hitting further suplexes as RAW heads into a commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

When RAW returns, Angle retains control as he looks to destroy Triple H’s dreams of heading to the main event of WrestleMania 27. However, Hunter mounts a comeback when he counters and hits a back body drop followed by a clothesline over the top rope that buys him some time. More issues with Team Angle follow as Hennig and Watson look to take Hunter down once more but he sees them coming and reacts accordingly with right hands, atomic drops and clotheslines over the top for them as well. The referee has seen enough and he speaks to Justin Roberts at ringside ...

JUSTIN ROBERTS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, I have just been informed by the official that Team Angle have been barred from ringside ...

ENDING: Team Angle look horrified as the referee signals to them to get out of the arena and they slowly back away with their hands around their heads, they are fearful that they have just made a major mistake. However, Kurt has the wherewithal to ignore their eviction for a second and he creeps up on Hunter – who is watching Team Angle leave – and he rolls him up for a quick pinfall ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** TRIPLE H KICKS OUT! **

Both men spring to their feet now and trade right hands, Hunter gets the upper hand as you would expect him to as the action moves away from Angle’s traditional style. An atomic drop follows and Triple H begins to look confident of victory as he stands back and waits for his chance. Up gets Kurt but Hunter kicks him in the gut, Pedigree coming up? No! As Hunter positions Kurt’s head between his knees, the Olympian manages to raise his upper body up and back body drops Triple H over onto his back. As the Cerebral Assassin hits the mat, Angle quickly spins and grabs his worn down leg and locks it in ... ANKLE LOCK! ANGLE HAS THE ANKLE LOCK ON TRIPLE H! Will the Game tap out and give up his dream of headlining WrestleMania 27? Angle pulls hard on the foot of Hunter and it looks as if he will have no chance of getting free but somehow Triple H manages to reach the ropes and the referee orders the release. Angle is frustrated but he accepts this and releases – in the end – before stepping back and pulling down the strap on his singlet. The crowd know what is coming and they urge Triple H to realise this and escape but he doesn’t seem to be heeding the warning. Limping on his injured ankle, Hunter spins and walks straight into position for Angle to hit the Angle Slam ... Angle lifts him up and spins but Triple H gets free and kicks Angle in the gut once more. PEDIGREE! TRIPLE H HITS THE PEDIGREE! He rolls Angle over and makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: TRIPLE H (12:45)
As Angle rolls away looking distraught, Triple H jumps up and leaps onto the ropes in the corner where he celebrates the victory that sees him become the sixth and final man to qualify for the RAW Elimination Chamber match this Sunday that will determine the Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 27. As the crowd cheer wildly, Triple H points to WrestleMania logo hanging in the rafters and then to his waist where he signals that he will soon be the WWE Champion. Angle looks on disgusted as he falls onto his backside on the ramp where he is consoled by Percy Watson and Joe Hennig who are back out. Angle angrily confronts his two rookies and demands that they get in the ring. They look at each other and then nod their heads before rushing into the ring. Triple H’s music fades as Hennig and Watson jump an unsuspecting Triple H from behind and start beating him on the back as they look to do some damage ahead of the Elimination Chamber. However, the attack is short-lived as Hunter fights back and manages to catch a running Watson with a snap powerslam before he catches Hennig with a kick to the gut ... PEDIGREE! TRIPLE H HITS THE PEDIGREE TO JOE HENNIG! Angle looks on in shock as Hunter glares at him and waits for Watson to get to his feet as well ... Angle is shaking his finger but there is nothing that is going to stop the Cerebral Assassin here ... PEDIGREE! PEDIGREE TO PERCY WATSON TOO! JR and King go wild on commentary and they hype up the RAW Chamber match this Sunday – Kurt Angle, Triple H, The Miz, Daniel Bryan, Sheamus and Edge meet in the Elimination Chamber for the right to challenge the WWE Champion at WrestleMania 27! As RAW heads into the final commercial of the night, Triple H stares up the ramp towards Angle with a gleam in his eyes for the first time in a few weeks ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

RAW returns with a black carpet in the ring and speakers in the corners as well as a polished wooden table in the centre with black office chairs on either side. JR informs us that it is time for the official contract signing between SMACKDOWN’s John Cena, the man who won the Royal Rumble and will be in the WrestleMania 27 main event, and RAW’s Randy Orton, the man who has suffered so much due to Cena’s actions in the past few months ...

*** START VIDEO ***

A video airs that shows John Cena back in his days on RAW when he was loved by the majority of the WWE Universe, holding the WWE Championship belt and hitting his most popular moves – the Attitude Adjustment, the Five Knuckle Shuffle and the STF. We see Cena battling with Orton in the past and we hear the voiceover speak ...

NARRATOR:
For years, these two men have been rivals, united in their desire to be WWE Champion ...

We see clips of both men with the WWE Championship intermingled with clips of their long running battles in the past ...

NARRATOR:
But it has never been this personal ...

Clips from the Royal Rumble when Cena took his attack on Orton to such vicious lengths when he destroyed the Viper outside – only for Orton to return to the ring later in the night and fight back once more.

NARRATOR:
Since Cyber Sunday ...

Cena’s Attitude Adjustment to Orton, during his WWE Championship defence against Wade Barrett, is shown which damaged the respect between the pair of them although Orton managed to retain his title that night ...

NARRATOR:
Relationships between the two have been strained. From a begrudging respect for each other, Cena and Orton’s relationship has slowly and surely deteriorated ... And then at Survivor Series, things took a major turn for the worse ...

We see Cena hit with the 450 Splash by Justin Gabriel and then the 1 ... 2 ... 3 ... that meant that Wade Barrett won the WWE Championship from Orton. More clips are shown as Cena costs Orton his rematch for the title and is then drafted to SMACKDOWN ...

NARRATOR:
With his move to SMACKDOWN confirmed, Cena adopted a brand new attitude ... but the Viper refused to leave him alone ...

Clips of Cena and Orton’s vicious battle at Vengeance are shown where Cena resorted to dirty tactics in order to put away the Viper ...

NARRATOR:
Cena’s victory in the Royal Rumble means he is heading for WrestleMania 27 and a place in the main event ...

We see Cena eliminating Orton at the Rumble and securing his spot at the biggest PPV of the year ...

NARRATOR:
But there is no end to the rage of Viper ...

Orton’s RKO to Michael Cole is shown as Cena looks on with a look of worry in his eyes from a recent RAW ...

NARRATOR:
This Sunday, Cena and Orton battle one final time – which man will be victorious and finally end this rivalry on top?

More clips of the pair of them fighting it out between them from various shows before the match card for Sunday’s Elimination Chamber clash between them is shown to end the video ...

*** END VIDEO ***

JR and King discuss the match between Cena and Orton at the Chamber but it is left to JR to point out that much will depend on the match stipulation that has been selected by the Viper after his win in last week’s Beat the Clock challenge. King says he can’t wait to see the pair of them clash this Sunday regardless of the match choice of Randy Orton ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***

JOHN CENA
w/ Michael Cole

Accompanied by the SMACKDOWN General Manager, Michael Cole, John Cena heads out onto the ramp to a huge, negative reaction from the WWE Universe. Heel Cena is universally hated nowadays as he cockily makes his way towards the ring, disrespecting the men and women, boys and girls, who used to cheer for him – well, in the main anyway! Cena slides under the bottom rope and leaps onto the ropes where he poses before waving his hand in front of his face, making it clear to the WWE Universe that they can’t see him. Chants and signs that disrespect Cena are clear but Cena is not interested as he beckons Cole into the ring beside him. Cole, dressed in a smart suit with a blue tie, heads in and stands beside Cena as they discuss something. Cena’s music fades and the crowd boo him as Cena takes a microphone ...

JOHN CENA:
Let me guess ... Boooooooooooooo? Booooooooooooooo! BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Cena taunts the crowd by booing as the crowd attempt to drown him out in boos and jeers, Cole smirks at Cena’s side.

JOHN CENA:
At least ... (Cena waits for the boos to die down) ... at least, you now have a legitimate reason to boo me.

Intensifying boos in the arena ...

JOHN CENA:
You see, in 2010, I did everything that you people wanted me to. I chased down the big, bad animal Batista ... I battled against the evil Nexus ... I did all that for you and how did you repay me?

A loud ‘Boooo!’ echoes around the arena as they answer Cena’s question ...

JOHN CENA:
That’s right, you booed me. You didn’t vote me into the Cyber Sunday WWE Championship match, you wanted to give Randy Orton more chance rather than thank me for my efforts. So I decided that enough was enough. I’ve moved on and look at me. Within weeks of saying ‘Stick it!’ to every single one of you, within weeks of saying that I am done with all of the crap from the WWE Universe ... within weeks, I have beaten your new hero, Randy Orton, and won the Royal Rumble to earn my shot at WrestleMania 27.

Cena smirks and whispers something to Cole as the crowd jeer once more ...

JOHN CENA:
And I made a promise, I vowed before the Rumble, that I would go undefeated all the way to WrestleMania and then I would win the World Heavyweight Championship. You see, I don’t give a damn what match Randy Orton wants me to participate in at the Chamber, I don’t give a damn what happened last Friday night on SMACKDOWN ... I am still undefeated ...

Boos for this statement as JR corrects it – Cena lost to Morrison last Friday night didn’t he?

JOHN CENA:
... I didn’t lose to John Morrison, I ran out of time, the match was over.

Boos and jeers again and a chant of “Cena sucks!” in the arena ...

JOHN CENA:
This Sunday, whatever match Randy Orton chooses, I will emerge victorious and I will go to WrestleMania and defeat CM Punk or whoever holds the World Championship – and there is nothing that any of you can do about it.

A flash of anger on Cena’s face as he thinks about these words ...

JOHN CENA:
There was a time when the boos used to get to me ... Now, I want to hear them. I want to know that I have pissed you off ...

Cena swearing? His attitude has taken a turn for the worse ...

JOHN CENA:
I want to know that you hate me as much as I hate every single, stinking one of you.

Boos are erupting around the arena, Cena is under the skin of the crowd now ...

JOHN CENA:
And then this Sunday, when I need something to give me that second wind, that extra bit of energy, I will look out at all of you and it will drive me on to shove your boos and your taunts down your throats and destroy your hopes for Orton once and for all ...

*** VOICES ***

RANDY ORTON
w/ Shawn Michaels

With the RAW General Manager by his side, Orton storms out of the backstage area, he has clearly heard enough of Cena now. As he nears the ring, ten burly security men appear from the side of the ring and they slide into the ring to ensure that there are no problems here tonight. Orton stands outside the ring looking up, the RAW General Manager urging him to keep his cool tonight, before he steps into the ring and stands on the opposite side of the table to Cena, a look of complete loathing in his eyes.

???:
Hold it, hold it!

Orton’s music fades and attention turns towards the ramp where the WWE Owner, Chip Butty, is heading towards the ring ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Orton, just remember what I warned you about before. No physical altercations with either Mr. Cena ... (Boos from the crowd) ... or Michael Cole.

JOHN CENA:
Why don’t you just sit down and be a good boy, Orton?

Orton smirks and rolls his head around his neck, he clearly wants to get hold of both Cole and Cena right now but he knows he must wait ...

CHIP BUTTY:
Now, gentlemen, I have had these contracts drawn up with the details of the match to take place this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber pay per view. They include details of the match stipulation chosen by Mr. Orton after his victory last week in the ‘Beat the Clock’ challenge.

Butty places two contracts on the table with clipboards. Butty looks towards Orton expectantly ...

RANDY ORTON:
Cena, you have six days. You have six days to grow a pair, to become a man and get ready for this Sunday. You see, in six days time, I will be coming to the Elimination Chamber with one thing on my mind. Complete and utter ... devastation.

Cheers from the WWE Universe who are solidly behind Orton for this match ...

RANDY ORTON:
For months, I have watched you take short cuts to escape me. For weeks, I have seen you avoid me and run away like the coward that you are. But Cena, that all ends this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber.

Cheers for Orton’s words ...

RANDY ORTON:
This isn’t about titles, John. This isn’t about Number 1 contenders, this isn’t about qualifying to compete, this is all about you and me. This is about pride, this is about being able to look in the mirror and say ... “I’m the man!”

Cena looks at Orton with a mocking look in his eyes as HBK continues to hover on Orton’s shoulder just in case Cena manages to provoke him ...

RANDY ORTON:
You can stand there with all the looks on your face that you want, John, I won’t be attacking you tonight. I am not going to give you the cheap exit from this situation. On Sunday night at the Chamber, I will get my hands on you, I will hit you harder than you have ever been hit and then ...

JOHN CENA:
Here we go, Orton. Tough words? We’ve heard them before, RKO here, Punt to the skull there ... What happened at Vengeance, man? What happened at the Rumble? Let me think ...

Cena removes his hat and mockingly scratches at his head as if he is thinking hard ...

JOHN CENA:
Oh yeah, I won. I beat you at Vengeance, I took you out of the Rumble and won the WrestleMania main event spot. I’m the man who will head to Atlanta in seven weeks to challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship and you, Orton, you will sit backstage and watch me win that title and prove that I am the main man here in the WWE.

Boos for this statement from Cena, he looks pleased with the reaction though ...

RANDY ORTON:
You know what, Cena? You talk a little bit too much for your own good at times. I haven’t forgotten Vengeance or the Rumble, I haven’t forgot the dirty, cheating ways you managed to get the upper hand over me. But at the Chamber, this Sunday, it ends, Cena. You can fight dirty all you want because I have the choice of match – thanks to John Morrison beating you on SMACKDOWN ...

Cheers from the crowd ...

RANDY ORTON:
I have no intention of losing this Sunday, Cena. As for you, I’d stop thinking about WrestleMania and the World Championship and I’d concentrate on making sure you survive Sunday first. If I get my way, Cena, I will injure you so bad this Sunday – you won’t even make WrestleMania.

Cena looks annoyed by this comment and takes a step forward towards Orton as he mouths at him off the microphone ... Orton smirks at him ...

RANDY ORTON:
This Sunday, Cena ... It will be ... LAST MAN STANDING!

Huge cheers for this announcement from the Viper as he smirks at Cena’s reaction, a worried look crossing the face of the SMACKDOWN superstar. Cena turns to Cole and protests but there is nothing he can do and Chip Butty holds his hands up to indicate the same – Orton had the right to choose ...

RANDY ORTON:
Last Man Standing, Cena ... (Orton picks up the pen and signs the contract) ... See you on Sunday.

Orton stares into the eyes of Cena and Butty reminds Orton not to touch his opponent but it appears Orton has no intention of doing that as he simply smirks at a snarling Cena. Orton’s attention turns towards Michael Cole and he smirks again, Cole looks worried and hides behind Cena as Butty again warns Orton not to touch either of them ... Orton steps back and smiles at Cena once more before suddenly launching to the left ... RKO TO SHAWN MICHAELS! OUT OF NOWHERE!

JIM ROSS:
What the hell was that all about?

There is a mixed reaction in the arena as Orton surprises Michaels, the RAW General Manager, with the RKO before he exits the ring chuckling to himself. Why did Orton RKO the RAW General Manager? Or was he simply sending a message to Cena? Cena shakes his head as Orton backs away up the ramp smirking, ‘Voices’ echoing around the arena, before Butty hands the pen over and Cena signs the contract. This Sunday, Randy Orton vs. John Cena ... Last Man Standing!

*** END OF SHOW ***

=========================================


ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011

*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

LAST MAN STANDING MATCH
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Christian vs. The Undertaker

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
Daniel Bryan vs. Kurt Angle vs. The Miz vs. Sheamus vs. Edge vs. Triple H

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. John Morrison
(Nexus barred from ringside)

UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP
Justin Gabriel (c) vs. Ted DiBiase

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Alberto Del Rio (c) vs. Rey Mysterio

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla -- (vs. Michelle McCool?)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***

*** 9 DAYS AWAY ***
 
#122 ·
Glad you're back; I've really enjoyed this BTB thus far.

I've gotta say, I like the way that you present your work; with the pictures of the wrestlers and all. This Nexus angle is interesting, and I can see them maybe costing Barrett the WWE Championship at the Chamber.

This was a nice, even match leading into the Chamber, although I don't see either man winning this Sunday. Lawler picking Sheamus to win pretty much reaffirms that haha.

The Edge/Michaels conflict is still going strong, and should hopefully lead to a WrestleMania match between the two men. I see Edge possibly getting HBK fired, leading to a one-night-only return. Props on how you've worked this rivalry.

The British Empire is something that I've seen many writers do some form of, and I think that your version is probably right up there with the best. Cryme Time should end up getting their comeuppance at WrestleMania.

Both of these men are worthy members of the Hall of Fame, but I'd think that they'd probably save McMahon's induction until after he's retired. Otherwise, this year's Hall of Fame ceremony looks to be good.

The Miz might actually be a fair chance to win in the Chamber this Sunday. It would be cool if he was beaten by Morrison and then successfully cashed in his briefcase after the match, but I think Jericho would be a more likely winner. This was a good tag match, and Morrison and Gabriel would be a great team in real life I reckon.

Jericho-Edge is unsurprisingly the match of the night, and you kept the tension high throughout the match. I still think that Jericho will find a way into the Chamber and win the match, but I'm probably wrong haha.

This was a nice confrontation between Trips and JoMo, and I might have to rethink my pick for the Chamber haha. At first I thought that Hunter would face Kurt at Mania, but its probably more likely that it'll be Kurt/Orton and Hunter/Morrison. Kurt/Hunter was a very good main event, but it was slightly edged out by Jericho/Edge as MOTN in my opinion.

I'm really loving Cena as a heel. In a few other BTBs with a heel Cena, I've found him a little boring, but he's quite entertaining here. The contract signing was intense, and I loved the ending; with Orton sending a message to Cena AND Butty. I'm looking forward to the Last Man Standing match at Elimination Chamber; probably more than any other match on the card (which is a very good card by the way).

This was quite a good go-home RAW for the Chamber; I did think you may have underused Barrett a little, but otherwise I thoroughly enjoyed the show. I'm looking forward to Elimination Chamber!
 
#123 ·
RAW Review

It seems Nexus is breaking up and if that is the case, then I for one would actually love to see them go their separate ways because at this point Nexus is starting to become really watered down, in other words they have lost their steam as a stable and or they have lost their substance as a group, so them going off in their separate ways becoming stars in their own right is actually better for them anyway

Perhaps you can have Skip Sheffield go away for while and re-debut as Ryback, just an idea

And Ezekiel Jackson didn't even need Nexus to begin with, he was perfectly fine all on his own

And as for Otunga he can go under his Harvard law gimmick

While Barrett he can become the Barrett we know him as today, become the bare-knuckle fighter who fought in fight clubs and he can use the Bull Hammer elbow as his new finisher

Sheamus beating Daniel Bryan, he is my darkhorse pick to win the RAW Chamber and go on to headline WrestleMania 27 in the main event against whoever the WWE Champion may be whether it is Barrett or Morrison but I expect Daniel Bryan to have a great showing inside the RAW Elimination Chamber

And Shawn Michaels trying to stick it to Edge yet again by sticking him in another Elimination Chamber qualifier against Jericho when Edge already qualified all be it under controversial circumstances was great, and Edge wanting to attack HBK but instead just walks out of HBK's office only for Chip Butty to walk in and he tells HBK that he has his eye on him meaning HBK's job could be on the line and if it is, then I could see HBK facing Edge at Mania with HBK coming out of retirement for one night only but nothing to stop HBK from giving Chip Butty what he deserves and that is a Superkick kicking his teeth right down his throat, now nothing would make me happier than to see that happen


Cryme Time and The Hart Dynasty's match ending in No Contest because of The British Empire costing them the match and then making a statement by attacking both teams, I for one hope The British Empire gets what's coming to them at Elimination Chamber when they end up losing their WWE Tag Team Championship


Vince McMahon in the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame class, I love it, Vince deserves to headline his own class and the 2nd member of the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame class is none other than Irwin R. Schyster IRS Mike Rotundo, great choice, he definitely deserves to be in, but I wonder just who will induct Vince or who will induct IRS, if anything IRS his sons will probably induct their father into the Hall of Fame considering his son is Husky Harris and his other son is Bo Rotundo


It seems Michelle McCool is going to get her WWE Divas Championship match at WrestleMania 27, that is great

The Miz might actually be a fair chance to win in the Chamber this Sunday because of the fact not only is he in the Chamber but he also has his Money In The Bank briefcase which means either way he could walk out of Elimination Chamber as WWE Champion because if he were to get eliminated in the Chamber, he then could come back later on in the night and cash in on whoever the WWE Champion ends up being whether it be Morrison or Barrett. This was a good tag match for the most part especially with Morrison and Gabriel teaming together

Jericho vs Edge definite match of the night as far as I am concerned, and you kept the tension high throughout the match. I still think that Jericho will find a way into the Chamber even if it means attacking someone backstage and taking their spot replacing them, so then that way he can get his hands on Edge or I somehow see the RAW GM HBK coming into the Chamber and costing Edge the match getting involved.

This was a nice confrontation between Morrison and Triple H, I wonder if Morrison is in line for a heel turn at some point and if he is, then I for one won't be surprised if he turns heel but if he does, I would love to see him enlist the services of a bodyguard who will watch his back similar to Shawn Michaels having Diesel as his bodyguard considering Morrison reminds me so much of a young 1990s version of Shawn Michaels when HBK was The Boy Toy. I won't be surprised if HHH/Morrison does happen at Mania and if Kurt Angle ends up challenging the Streak that being Undertaker's streak.


Loved Angle vs HHH and now that HHH is inside the Chamber, he is another one of my picks to win the Chamber match considering he has the most wins inside the Elimination Chamber with Triple H winning 4 Chamber matches in the years of 2003 at SummerSlam, 2005 at New Year's Revolution, 2008 at No Way Out and 2009 at No Way Out, so he would have to be the favorite to win the RAW Chamber


Might I just say I am loving Heel Cena, because he reminds me so much of a 1996 Hulk Hogan when he turned heel in WCW and became Hollywood Hogan, Cena reminds me so much of Hogan when he first became Hollywood because Cena's heat is so enormous like how Hogan's was, but what I would love to see would be Cena forming his own stable like how Hogan had the nWo, imagine a new nWo with Cena as the leader, Hollywood Cena, but I love Orton too here, I am a huge Orton mark, always have been and always will be because Orton in your diary reminds me so much of Stone Cold Steve Austin being that Orton is an anti-hero much like how Austin was, with Chip Butty being so much like Vince but Chip Butty is worse than what Vince ever was, at least when Vince was in charge of this company he ran the company with a no-nonsense take no prisoner type attitude but mostly did what the people wanted and Chip Butty cares about none of that, he doesn't care one iota about the fans or even his own superstars or what the fans want and he has a twisted view about what the company should be or just who the face of the company should be but Vince made things so much more interesting when he was in charge but I just hope Chip Butty is able to turn it around

But in all seriousness I loved it when Orton RKOed the RAW GM Shawn Michaels from out of nowhere, now let's see what Chip Butty will do about that since Chip said Orton can't touch Cena or Cole or even Butty but who is to stop Orton from touching HBK or any other superstar for that matter on the RAW roster? That means Orton can attack anyone even if it means RKOing or even punting said personnel in the skull, then I can't wait to see what Orton does next week or if there will be any punishment for him RKOing HBK because I can't see HBK taking too kindly to being RKOed
 
#124 ·
February 15, 2011: NXT

Thanks for the kind words, Tiger. Glad you're enjoying my BTB. The PPV should be good.

Perhaps you can have Skip Sheffield go away for while and re-debut as Ryback, just an idea

And Ezekiel Jackson didn't even need Nexus to begin with, he was perfectly fine all on his own

And as for Otunga he can go under his Harvard law gimmick
Thanks for the words, Terry - still my Number 1 fan, I see?!!

Skip Sheffield to transform into Ryback? No.

Ezekiel Jackson perfectly fine on his own? No.

David Otunga to go with his Harvard gimmick? No.

I'm trying to be different to the real WWE, mate. Won't do any of these. I really don't like the Ryback character, Ezekiel is more relevant in my BT than he has ever been in the WWE (when did he last appear on RAW, SD or PPV?) and Otunga's law gimmick hurts my eyes and my ears. Stay with this Nexus thing for now, something will happen - for WrestleMania for a start.

Anyway, time for some NXT action ...


TUESDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2011 | @ THE VAN ANDEL ARENA, GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN | SEASON 3, WEEK 8

A reminder video clip plays before NXT begins and it shows the two matches that would determine the two men who would fall or be stuck in 5th and 6th in the NXT rankings and therefore compete in tonight’s NXT main event Elimination Match. R-Truth, in the danger zone after Week 6, faced off against Drew McIntyre and he managed to hit the Scissors Kick to the Scot but he kicked out at the last second to deny him. A quick counter later from McIntyre resulted in Truth being hit with the Future Shock DDT and therefore counted down for 3. R-Truth will be in the Elimination Match, Drew McIntyre not so. But who would he face? 3rd placed Chavo Guerrero would face 6th placed Dolph Ziggler to determine this and with Vickie Guerrero desperate to see Chavo eliminated from NXT and the WWE, Ziggler had back up. Not for the first time, Vickie proved the difference as she distracted Chavo as he looked to hit the Frog Splash made famous by his late Uncle Eddie, Vickie’s husband, which allowed Ziggler chance to hit the Zig Zag and plunge Guerrero into the danger zone. Ziggler climbs to third, Chavo faces R-Truth this week looking to avoid the same fate as MVP suffered in Week 6. Who will be eliminated from NXT tonight?

*** WILD AND YOUNG ***
(American Bang)

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***



Matt Striker and Josh Mathews remind us of the current NXT rankings ...

1. Great Khali
2. Vladimir Kozlov
3. Dolph Ziggler
4. Drew McIntyre
5. R-Truth
6. Chavo Guerrero
7. Kaval

GONE: MVP​

... before reminding us about Kaval’s win in the NXT Battle Royal and how it earned him a double immunity from the first eliminations on NXT. Striker points out that Kaval will be eligible for the next elimination after Truth and Chavo’s match tonight. In the ring, we see that the top three men in the NXT rankings are stood – Khali, Kozlov and Ziggler – and it appears that they are going to be involved in the first match of the evening here on NXT ...



TRIPLE THREAT MATCH:
Dolph Ziggler (3) (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. Great Khali (1) (w/Runjin Singh) vs. Vladimir Kozlov (2)

The match begins with Khali and Kozlov taking Ziggler down quickly with some hard hitting moves that cause concern to Vickie Guerrero but Ziggler bumps them like crazy before allowing the two big men to test their strength against each other. From that point, Kozlov and Khali compete to out-do each other whilst Ziggler, wisely, plays hurt and warily watches on waiting for his opportunity to strike ...

ENDING: With the slow paced action between Khali and Kozlov sapping some energy from the crowd, it is inevitable that Ziggler will become involved sooner rather than later and he goes on the attack on the Punjabi Playboy who swats him away with ease. However, Ziggler is resourceful and he leaps back on the back of Khali and locks in a Sleeper that he hangs onto desperately trying to wear him down. Khali drops to a knee after a while and is struggling as Ziggler hangs on for dear life. With Khali in trouble, Ziggler fails to notice Kozlov sneak back into the ring and up on him. He drags Ziggler from Khali and crashes him head first into the turnbuckles in the corner before turning to the wounded Khali. Khali swings his massive arm and looks for the Khali Chop but Kozlov ducks under it and comes off the ropes with a Battering Ram Headbutt that staggers Khali backwards and down to a knee again as he props himself on the ropes. Kozlov pumps himself up and waits before attempting to lift and suplex Khali ... No way! Khali resists and Kozlov strains his back and turns away for a second ... KHALI CHOP! KHALI CHOP CONNECTS WITH THE SKULL OF KOZLOV! Khali looks for the cover but Ziggler rushes over and drops kicks Khali in the head with perfect timing ... Khali falls sideways, Ziggler hooks the leg of Kozlov ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: DOLPH ZIGGLER (06:39)
Ziggler wisely rushes out of the ring and doesn’t hang about as he gets to the stage before he reflects on what he has just done. Khali looks on furious as he realises that Ziggler just rocketed to the top of the NXT rankings, an impressive rise from sixth place last week with two super victories. Vickie looks delighted as she congratulates her man and Striker explains that Ziggler is now top of the rankings, Kozlov drops to third because he was pinned and Khali falls to second. NXT heads into a commercial with a delighted Ziggler celebrating an unlikely win on the stage ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

NXT returns with replays of the Ziggler victory over Khali and Kozlov before the break and then we see Scott Stanford backstage with Vickie Guerrero and the new NXT number 1 rank, Dolph Ziggler. Vickie does most of the talking and explains that she has a new role in the WWE which she will inform us more about soon but that Ziggler and herself are now ready to go their separate ways. She claims that it is an amicable split, Ziggler nods in agreement, before suggesting that she fully expects Ziggler to go on and win NXT and be WWE or World Champion by the end of 2011.

NXT switches back to the ring for the next match of the evening ...


*** EXPLODING HELMETS ***

KAVAL
Team JBL

Kaval, unaccompanied by JBL, heads for the ring with a look of determination on his face. Striker and Mathews explain that Kaval is yet to win on NXT, his only win in the competition was the Royal Rumble NXT Battle Royal which guaranteed his safety until after the Elimination Chamber PPV. However, he needs to start winning soon as his immunity is about to run out and he sits in last place in the rankings, can he get a win tonight?

*** SMOKE AND MIRRORS ***

CODY RHODES

SINGLES MATCH:
CODY RHODES vs. KAVAL (7)

The ‘Dashing One’ Cody Rhodes appears on NXT to face Kaval who is looking for his first win to get some momentum in the competition. Rhodes weathers the early storm from Kaval and appears in control of the match ...

ENDING: ... However, he fails to hit Cross Rhodes and then this sets him onto a path of unexpected problems as Kaval mounts a comeback. Backed by the crowd, Kaval, the underdog who is battling as much against his mentor, JBL, as the other NXT competitors, manages to take Cody down to the mat with a springboard facebuster that drives the good looking face of Cody down hard. Kaval climbs the turnbuckles and leaps off ... GHETTO STOMP! KAVAL HITS THE GHETTO STOMP TO RHODES! With Rhodes clutching his stomach and chest, Kaval makes the cover and hooks the leg ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: KAVAL (04:56)
Wild celebrations for the pint-sized NXT underdog, the man who won Season 2 but failed to build momentum in the WWE afterwards, as he jumps on the ropes and thanks the crowd for their support. Although this win doesn’t change his position in the NXT rankings, it could be the start of something very important to Kaval and he knows it. However, one of the other members of Team JBL has appeared in the ring unknown to Kaval. Drew McIntyre, the man who split from Cody Rhodes to voluntarily prove himself on NXT, helps up his former partner and they look over at the celebrating Kaval. They attack him from behind and then proceed to batter him with kicks and punches before Rhodes hits the Cross Rhodes as well. JBL wanders out and applauds as McIntyre drags Kaval back up ... FUTURE SHOCK DDT! The crowd jeer but there is a clear message here – Kaval’s win means nothing now. JBL congratulates Rhodes and McIntyre and they leave together as NXT goes to a second commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

NXT returns with Melina in the ring ...

*** YOU’RE NOT ENOUGH FOR ME ***

MICHELLE McCOOL
w/Kharma

Striker and Mathews recap on the situation involving Michelle McCool and the Divas Championship match at Elimination Chamber. Having won her matches on NXT in the past two weeks, one more win tonight – against Melina – will mean that Chip Butty will place McCool into the title match with former champion Layla and current Divas Champion Maryse. McCool, who attacked the pair of them along with Kharma back at the Rumble, has also been badgering RAW General Manager Chip Butty over a WrestleMania 27 Divas Championship match even though she has yet to win the title. Butty has promised Michelle, who he appears to have a soft spot for, that he will personally look into her request if HBK is not prepared to.

SINGLES MATCH:
MELINA vs. MICHELLE McCOOL (W/Kharma)

Melina sets off like a ball of fire and she hits Michelle with her very best offence but there is an elephant in the room in the form of Kharma at ringside. Eventually, she makes her presence felt by intimidating Melina when she goes for a pinfall and this allows McCool to crash into Melina from behind and take control. However, there is a problem for Michelle when the music of the Divas Champion begins ...

*** POURQUOI? ***

MARYSE
Divas Champion

Maryse, proudly sporting the Divas Championship around her waist, heads down to the ring and joins Striker and Mathews on commentary. McCool looks annoyed by her arrival but no sooner as the French Canadian Diva sat down than ...

*** INSATIABLE ***

LAYLA

Here comes the Number 1 contender for the Divas Championship, as of this moment, and Michelle’s former Laycool partner, Layla. Again, McCool looks shocked and this distraction has allowed Melina to recover and she rolls her up for the pinfall ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** McCOOL KICKS OUT! **

ENDING: With Melina back in control, there is a real sense that Michelle McCool could now fail in her attempt to win a Divas Championship match at the Elimination Chamber. Melina goes close on several occasions before she finally manages to hit PRIMAL SCREAM! CAN MELINA BEAT McCOOL?

** 1 **
** 2 **
** MICHELLE KICKS OUT AGAIN! **

A look of shock on the face of Melina, as well as those of Layla and Maryse at the announce desk too, as Michelle proves she is a tough cookie by kicking out of the Primal Scream finisher. However, Melina is not to be put off and she sets for the move again before Kharma jumps up onto the apron and causes a menacing distraction. Melina lunges over and knocks Kharma down but the damage is done now ... McCool strikes with a Big Boot kick that crashes Melina down once more. McCool lifts Melina up from the mat ... WINGS OF LOVE! McCOOL HAS THE MATCH WON NOW!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: MICHELLE McCOOL (06:48)
At Elimination Chamber, Maryse will now defend the Divas Championship in a Triple Threat against both Layla and Michelle McCool with the real prospect of Kharma at ringside as well. Melina is annoyed with the outcome as she comes round and she goes after McCool again but now Kharma gets into the ring with a look of fury in her eyes. Melina realises she is in trouble and backs off out of the ring but continues to taunt Kharma so she starts to follow her out of the ring and up the ramp. With Kharma stalking after Melina, McCool gets groggily to her feet ... LAYOUT FROM LAYLA! HANGING NECKBREAKER THAT LEAVES McCOOL WRITHING ON THE MAT! Layla looks on with a happy look in her eyes and then she points to Maryse who places the title on the mat out of the way. Striker says that this is payback for McCool’s attack on these two Divas back at the Rumble ... FRENCH KISS DDT! MARYSE CRASHES McCOOL’s HEAD INTO THE MAT! As ‘Pourquoi?’ restarts, Layla and Maryse look at each other with a look of respect as they stand over McCool. In 5 days, it will be a Triple Threat ... Who will be Divas Champion?

*** COMMERCIAL ***

NXT returns with a split screen showing R-Truth and Chavo Guerrero preparing for their match tonight – the main event is next. Whoever loses this match will be eliminated from the NXT competition as well as the WWE ... Striker and Mathews remind us that both men are from Team Rock (and Sock), their mentor currently out indefinitely after a brutal car park attack a few weeks ago, and that after tonight, there will be just two men left in the team for Mick Foley to guide – Ziggler and the winner of tonight’s match. Foley is now at ringside, on commentary, for this match where he will lose one of his men on his and Rock’s team ...

*** WHAT’S UP? ***

R-TRUTH

As Truth enters the ring, rapping and playing to the crowd, Striker describes Truth’s relationship with Rock as unsteady. The Rock was less than supportive over Truth’s decision to continue rapping and singing as he entered the ring and was critical of some of his moves. Can Truth survive tonight and prove to Rock that he can win NXT and become a champion here in the WWE?

*** CHAVITO ARDIENTE ***

CHAVO GUERRERO

As Chavo enters the ring, we are reminded over the desire that Guerrero has to win NXT in memory of the late, great Eddie Guerrero and of the words spoken by Vickie, his aunt, when she described him as a disgrace to the Guerrero family name. Chavo looks determined to remain in NXT as he looks to the heavens for some divine intervention from his Uncle Eddie tonight. Before the match, despite the tension, Chavo and Truth shake hands in a show of sportsmanship before the bell rings and the match begins ...

NXT ELIMINATION MATCH:
CHAVO GUERRERO vs. R-TRUTH

Both men are giving it everything and seem determined to avoid being eliminated here tonight as they go at it hell for leather. The match swings back and forth with neither man in control for long with Foley hyping up the talents of both men. However, one of them has to be eliminated ...

ENDING: The first big moment comes when Truth connects with his spinning elbow to the face of Chavo and he looks to follow it up with the Scissors Kick. However, he misses and Chavo shoves him away before dropkicking him down to the mat. Up to the top rope goes Chavo, here we go with the Frog Splash ... but Truth moves and escapes it. The two men trade punches as the crowd are unable to agree on who to cheer for but it is Chavo who gets the upper hand as he knocks Truth down. A rally of suplexes from the Mexican leaves Truth down on the mat looking up at the rafters and it appears that Chavo has his chance one more. Up he goes, top rope and ready, when suddenly, Vickie Guerrero appears. She slides into the ring and stands in front of Truth. Chavo warns her to move but she stands her ground, Chavo warns her again but again she refuses. Chavo shrugs his shoulders and jumps off ... FROG SPLASH ... DOES NOT CONNECT! With a scream, Vickie runs away and Truth benefits from the distraction by moving at the last second. Chavo crashes down on the mat and lands in a crumpled heap. Truth jumps up and surveys the situation ... Can he take advantage? Into the ring slides Mick Foley though and he ushers Truth to stop for a second while he removes Ms. Guerrero from the ring. He orders her to leave before lifting her over his shoulder and carrying her out of the ring instead to the delight of the crowd. Truth watches on but then focuses on Chavo ... SCISSORS KICK! TRUTH HITS THE SCISSORS KICK! He makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** KICK OUT FROM CHAVO! **

Truth cannot believe it and holds his head in his hands. He drags Chavo up and tries to set up an inverted DDT instead but Chavo fights out and springboards off the ropes into a crossbody to leave both men down on the mat. While they are down, Foley reappears and he rejoins the announce desk with Vickie Guerrero now removed from the arena. Again, Chavo and Truth rise simultaneously and trade moves but this time Truth gets the upper hand and knocks Chavo down. He goes for the Scissors Kick once more but Chavo escapes it ... As Truth comes off the ropes, Chavo readjusts ... Tilt-a-whirl backbreaker! Truth is groggy now and Chavo looks to press home the advantage ... He grasps Truth round the waist and hits a German Suplex but hangs on ... Three times, the Three Amigos! Truth looks down and out and Chavo again goes to the top rope ... FROG SPLASH! CHAVO LANDS SQUARE ON THE CHEST OF TRUTH!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: CHAVO GUERRERO (08:43)
As Chavo’s music hits, the relief is clear on his face – he has survived! He celebrates wildly as Truth comes round a little and looks up at him with a look of devastation in his eyes ... Chavo jumps down and offers out a hand to Truth to pick him up but Truth, clearly distraught over being eliminated from NXT and the WWE, refuses it. He stands facing Chavo and shakes his head, he looks upset here. Chavo offers the handshake but Truth walks away and Chavo accepts he is not going to receive one and decides to leave. As Chavo exits, Truth is left in the ring and the music ends ... Disconsolate, Truth looks around as a ripple of applause begins as the crowd show their appreciation of his efforts. Foley joins him in the ring and gives him a hug before raising his arm to show that he is proud of him ...

... AND TRUTH KNOCKS FOLEY DOWN WITH A PUNCH TO THE FACE!

Horror sweeps over the arena as Truth lays the boots to Foley, what is this all about? Truth exits the ring and grabs a steel chair before heading back into the ring. As Foley gets up, Truth jams the chair hard into Foley’s guts and then smashes it over his back over and over again until Foley is a beaten mess laid face down in the ring. Boos echo around the arena for Truth now and he spits down on the prone body of his supposed mentor ... As the camera zooms in, we see Truth with an angry look on his face and NXT ends with this image ...


*** END OF SHOW ***

After the show ends, Truth tweets his frustrations out on Twitter – he accuses Rock of being the worst possible mentor, he says that Foley hasn’t got a clue how to mentor anybody and that his bumbling actions with Vickie Guerrero cost Truth the chance to win the match. Truth blames the WWE Universe for cheering Rock and Foley, he says that the WWE use no-good legends like these two because the WWE Universe pander to their whims and needs to still feel loved. Truth then angrily tweets that he is sick of playing up for the fans and that he will now go elsewhere and look after himself only ...

NXT RANKINGS (Week 8):
1. Dolph Ziggler
2. Great Khali
3. Vladimir Kozlov
4. Drew McIntyre
5. Chavo Guerrero
6. Kaval

ELIMINATED: MVP, R-Truth

=========================================


ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011

*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

LAST MAN STANDING MATCH
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Christian vs. The Undertaker

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
Daniel Bryan vs. Kurt Angle vs. The Miz vs. Sheamus vs. Edge vs. Triple H

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. John Morrison
(Nexus barred from ringside)

UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP
Justin Gabriel (c) vs. Ted DiBiase

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Alberto Del Rio (c) vs. Rey Mysterio

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla vs. Michelle McCool (w/Kharma)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***

*** 5 DAYS AWAY ***
 
#125 ·
NXT to me in my opinion is starting to wear out its welcome meaning that it is starting to lose its steam but here is to hoping you introduce a new show, that being WWE Main Event and on that show you can have main-event worthy matches each and every Tuesday night but in all seriousness I loved R-Truth's heel turn and here is to hoping you make R-Truth a serious heel like his TNA character of Ron The Truth Killings
 
#126 · (Edited)
February 18, 2011: SMACKDOWN


FRIDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2011 | @ THE VAN ANDEL ARENA, GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN | 2 DAYS UNTIL ELIMINATION CHAMBER

After last week’s lack of Michael Cole to begin the show ...


... this week he is back with his ‘State of SMACKDOWN’ address. Cole speaks out about SMACKDOWN being the Number 1 show in the WWE right now and he hypes up the WrestleMania 27 main event which will feature the SMACKDOWN World Heavyweight Champion and the SMACKDOWN Royal Rumble winner, John Cena. Cole moves on to address the accusations that he is favouring Cena and he strenuously denies these. He claims that he is supporting Cena in his feud with Randy Orton because Cena is a SMACKDOWN guy up against a RAW guy. Cole claims that he would support Christian if he was facing Orton, he would support Undertaker, he would support Kofi and he would even support the Hardys. Cole now moves on to speak about tonight’s exciting show – he confirms that Hawkins and Swagger will face Mysterio and Ryder tonight but he then updates that match by adding Alberto Del Rio to Swagger and Hawkins’ team ... and then he announces that Randy Orton will be on SMACKDOWN tonight and will team with Mysterio and Ryder. The crowd cheer this announcement but then Cole adds that to ensure no problems between Orton and his rival, Cena has been given the night off to prepare for Sunday’s Elimination Chamber in safety. Cole switches his attention to the Tag Team Championships and says there will be a rematch from Monday night when the Hart Dynasty face off against Cryme Tyme in a Number 1 contender match. Cole also announces that the six competitors from the World Championship Elimination Chamber match this Sunday will all compete here tonight – World Champion CM Punk and Christian will meet one on one in a rematch from the Royal Rumble; Jeff Hardy will face his brother Matt Hardy to end their issues ahead of Jeff’s title opportunity this Sunday; and finally, in a Triple Threat, Undertaker, Kofi Kingston and Big Show will meet in the main event. Cole says that yet again, SMACKDOWN proves that it is the Number 1 show in the WWE and wishes everybody an enjoyable evening ...


*** DO YOU KNOW THE ENEMY? ***
(Green Day)

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***

Todd Grisham and Mick Foley have just a moment to welcome everybody to Friday Night SMACKDOWN live from Grand Rapids, Michigan before ...

*** NO MORE WORDS ***

JEFF HARDY

... the ever popular Jeff Hardy comes bounding out from backstage ready for the biggest couple of days since his return a month ago. Jeff, who we haven’t heard from much, salutes his fans and then speeds down the ramp towards the ring as the crowd go crazy for him. He slides into the ring and rushes over to the corner to continue his saluting of the WWE Universe before he takes a microphone and speaks out. He addresses his recent issues with his older brother, Matt. Jeff reaffirms his view that Matt is thinking too much about titles and accomplishments and that he needs to fall in love with wrestling again if he is to move onwards. Jeff again informs the world that if Matt wants to compete so badly in Sunday’s Elimination Chamber match, he can have his spot. Jeff says that being WWE or World Champion is an amazing feeling but the feeling he got from competing night in, night out with his brother and living their dream was worth so much more to him. Jeff says he does not want to fight Matt tonight but Cole has ordered it and if Matt wishes to continue their problems then he will have no option but to fight. He says he will be living his dream one more time tonight, competing in the WWE and rocking the world like only he can ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***

CM PUNK
World Heavyweight Champion

A mixed reception for the World Champion as he heads out with the World Championship belt around his waist and holding a microphone while shaking his head. Punk is dressed ready to compete later tonight against Christian but he has words for Hardy first. Staying on the stage, Punk says that, as ever, Hardy is talking rubbish. The notion that there is a better feeling than being the World Champion is a ridiculous one and he accuses Jeff of being high or something. Punk taunts Jeff a little more, shades of their amazing feud from last year resurfacing, and claims that there is no better feeling than simply being known as the champion and the “Best in the World” and that deep down, Hardy knows that too. Punk accuses Jeff of being a hypocrite who would love nothing more than to be the World Champion after this Sunday and he throws out to a replay from SMACKDOWN last year ...



Punk challenges Hardy to deny that that ovation didn’t feel good, that that moment on SMACKDOWN was not the greatest feeling of his entire career. Hardy describes it as being one of the best moments of his career, the pinnacle of his achievements, but then claims that his first Tag Team Championship with Matt or their debut match or their amazing TLC matches meant much more to him. Punk laughs and accuses Hardy of being a liar. He tells the WWE Universe that Jeff Hardy is greedy and egotistical like any other superstar in the WWE and that, whatever it took, Hardy would do anything to become World Champion this Sunday and head into the WrestleMania main event in six weeks time. Again, Jeff tries to deny this but Punk cuts him off and tells him that that will simply have to remain a pipedream though, that there is no happy ending for Jeff Hardy on his dream return to the WWE. Punk says that he will do whatever it takes to retain his World Championship as well, Punk says that he is determined to go to WrestleMania and main event for the first time in his career and ram the words of John Cena down his throat. Punk says he will prove that he is the best in the world and that there is nothing Jeff Hardy can do about it.

Jeff is beginning to get a little annoyed with CM Punk now and he interrupts. He reminds Punk that it was him that caused Hardy’s exit from the WWE last year and that he owes him one. So whilst he didn’t come back to the WWE to become the World Champion, he will do just that if he needs to so that he can pay Punk back. Punk tries to use this to prove his theory but Jeff tells him to shut up and listen for a change. Jeff says that CM Punk has a big mouth and that regardless of whether he becomes World Champion this Sunday, he will make sure that CM Punk loses his title instead. Jeff continues to build up his thirst for revenge whilst there is a commotion behind him ... Matt Hardy is in the ring! Unaware of his brother’s presence, Jeff tells Punk that this Sunday will be his last day as World Champion and that he had better be ready for ... TWIST OF FATE! MATT GRABS JEFF AND LEVELS HIM WITH A SURPRISE TWIST OF FATE! The crowd boo as Matt stands over Jeff with a look of intense pleasure in his eyes whilst CM Punk, on stage still, readjusts his title belt and laughs at Jeff’s fate. He turns and leaves and the crowd focus on Matt who exits the ring and grabs ... a steel chair! He gets back into the ring as Jeff gets back up ... BAM! CHAIR SHOT TO THE BACK OF HIS YOUNGER BROTHER! The crowd boo and jeer as referees and officials swarm over the ring to stop the attack but Matt threatens them with the chair before ... SMASH! CHAIR RAMMED INTO THE GUT OF JEFF AS WELL! Jeff is down and coughing and spluttering as Matt tosses away the chair. Smirking, Matt looks down on Jeff as the referees hold him back and shouts at him that he should disappear again and leave the WWE for good as SMACKDOWN heads into a commercial ...


*** COMMERCIAL ***

SMACKDOWN returns with the WWE’s newest tag team heading for the ring ...

*** GET DOWN ON YOUR KNEES ***

JACK SWAGGER & CURT HAWKINS

As Swagger and Hawkins head for the ring, replays of their issues with Ryder in recent weeks are shown including the night that Swagger joined forces with Hawkins to take out Ryder in the first place. Foley suggests that Ryder wasn’t the weak link in the Hawkins/Ryder team that won the Tag Titles but Hawkins’ grievance with him could set him back big time.

*** REALEZA ***

ALBERTO DEL RIO
Intercontinental Champion | w/Ricardo Rodriguez

The horn of the car sounds and out into the arena drives the Intercontinental Champion, Alberto Del Rio. He is introduced by his personal ring announcer but he doesn’t look pleased and Grisham explains that is down to the fact that he has to defend the Intercontinental Championship this Sunday against his rival, Rey Mysterio. Foley says that Del Rio’s heinous attack of Rey back on his first night with the company will have lit a spark under Mysterio and that he can see a new Intercontinental Champion being crowned this Sunday ...

*** RADIO ***

ZACK RYDER

Positive reaction for Ryder who seems to have picked up the sympathy vote from the WWE Universe after Hawkins’ and Swagger’s treatment of him. Replays of last week’s confrontation between Ryder and Mysterio and Swagger, Hawkins and Del Rio are shown as Ryder pauses at the bottom of the ramp wary of entering the ring without backup.

*** BOOYAKA! BOOYAKA! ***

REY MYSTERIO

Great reception for the Mexican Rey Mysterio as he heads out and salutes the fans before his pyro explodes and he heads down the ring. Foley and Grisham remind us that Mysterio will challenge for the Intercontinental Championship this Sunday and that he is ready to crown his return from injury by adding gold to his waist once again ...

*** VOICES ***

RANDY ORTON

Huge reaction for Orton, the man who faces Cena on Sunday in a Last Man Standing match, as he saunters out to join Mysterio and Ryder. As Orton heads down the ramp, Foley complains that Cena has been given the night off SMACKDOWN whilst Orton, a RAW guy, has to come on SMACKDOWN and compete. He accuses Cole of talking rubbish earlier in the night when he claimed that he wasn’t favouring Cena in any way. Orton looks menacing as he reaches the ring, his icy stare pointing towards Del Rio, Hawkins and Swagger. Despite not having any particular issues with them, Orton looks as if he wants to send a message to Cena here tonight.

6 MAN TAG MATCH:
ALBERTO DEL RIO, CURT HAWKINS & JACK SWAGGER (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. RANDY ORTON, REY MYSTERIO & ZACK RYDER

Orton starts the match and he goes up against Jack Swagger who appears to believe that he can cope with the Viper. Calling Orton out, Swagger locks up with him and begins to wrestle him down to the mat. However, Orton is in no mood for mat wrestling and he gains control with a few well placed right hands followed by a backbreaker across his own back that forces Swagger to make the tag to Hawkins. Orton continues to dominate the match when Hawkins is in the ring and also when Del Rio gets in but a cheap shot from the Mexican when Orton speaks to the referee forces Orton into tagging out and in comes Ryder for the first time this evening ...

ENDING: The match continues with all six men having time in the ring but it starts to look threatening to Ryder when Del Rio manages to hit the Enzuguri kick in the corner of the ring as he steps up the turnbuckles. With Ryder face down and desperate for the tag, Del Rio taunts Mysterio and the referee has to hold the little man back. In the confusion, Hawkins and Swagger creep up behind Orton on the outside and they pull him backwards off the apron so that he crashes down on the floor on his back. Del Rio stomps away at Ryder and it appears to be a matter of time ... ROLLING CROSS ARM BREAKER! DEL RIO LOCKS IN THE CROSS ARM BREAKER TO RYDER! Mysterio is forced to come into the ring again and he dropkicks Del Rio to save Ryder from tapping out. All hell breaks loose now as Hawkins and Swagger come in after Rey and they beat down at him. However, Rey gets the advantage and he dropkicks Hawkins through the ropes to the outside, he then dropkicks Swagger down over the ropes so he is set up for the 619 ... Swagger rolls out of the ring though and joins Hawkins but as they get to their feet, Mysterio leaps onto the top rope, springboards out of the ring and connects with a crossbody to both of them. In the ring, Del Rio is slowly getting up as Ryder is still down on the mat and looks angry now. He grabs Ryder and is about to set up the Cross Arm Breaker again when Orton slithers under the ropes ... RKO! ORTON RKO’S DEL RIO! Cheers in the arena as the referee ushers Orton away, he stands in the corner with a smug look on his face. Ryder gets up and watches Del Rio struggling up ... ROUGH RYDER! RYDER CONNECTS WITH ROUGH RYDER! Del Rio is down and out and Ryder thinks about the cover – but then he spots Mysterio on the apron. He tags in the Number 1 contender for the Intercontinental Championship and Rey stalks up behind Del Rio. A dropkick sends Del Rio sprawling over the middle rope and perfectly set up ... 619 CONNECTS! MYSTERIO WITH THE 619 TO DEL RIO! As Del Rio staggers around, Mysterio leaps up again and springboards off the top rope ... WEST COAST POP! Mysterio hooks the legs of Del Rio ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: RANDY ORTON, REY MYSTERIO & ZACK RYDER (07:39)
The crowd explode with delight and Mysterio looks down at Del Rio with a smirk. As Orton and Ryder join him in the ring, Mysterio stands over Del Rio and signals that he will soon have the Intercontinental Championship around his waist. The referee raises their hands in victory as SMACKDOWN heads into another commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***


SMACKDOWN returns with replays of the victory for Orton, Mysterio and Ryder before the break against Del Rio, Hawkins and Swagger. In the ring, we see that Mysterio and Ryder have left and Orton is stood holding a microphone. He is waiting to explain his actions on Monday when he RKO’d Shawn Michaels, the RAW General Manager. Orton explains that it was nothing personal against HBK, he was just the only one he could hit the RKO on at that moment. Orton suggests that he needed to hit an RKO and says that he doesn’t care what people think of him, when he is ready to strike, he does just that. He was sending a message to Cena – at any point, at any moment, he can hit an RKO and there is nothing Cena can do about it when he does. Orton apologises to HBK but then insists that he needed to do it. Orton goes on to suggest that HBK was the one who put Cena on his Survivor Series team in the first place, it was HBK that made the stipulation that Cena could lose Orton the title. Orton suggests that they are now even. Orton turns his attention to Michael Cole and John Cena next and says that he would have loved to RKO Michael Cole instead and then punt him in the skull but it has been made clear to him by WWE management that he must not touch Cole. Instead, Orton vows to take out his anger on John Cena this Sunday instead, he will destroy Cena and leave him a bloody mess and unable to take his place in any WrestleMania main event. Orton reaffirms that his match with Cena this Sunday is not about titles, it is simply about revenge and taking Cena out for a long, long time. He says that Cena keeps looking forward to the WrestleMania main event and that he should be focusing on making sure he is fit enough to watch the WrestleMania main event on TV. Fighting talk from Orton but it ends when Cena comes through the crowd – isn’t he supposed to be taking the night off? Orton spins around with Cena stood behind him ... FU! CENA HITS THE FU ON ORTON!

As Cena stands over Orton, he smirks to himself but Foley and Grisham are hyping up the potential consequences for Cena after that action. They remind us that Cena stands to lose his WrestleMania main event position if he touches Orton – and he has done just that! What will happen to Cena? Will he be punished? Is the Elimination Chamber match between Cena and Orton now in jeopardy?


*** COMMERCIAL ***

SMACKDOWN returns with replays of Cena’s attack on Orton and further questioning of the decision made by Cena and whether he may regret it or not. Backstage, the camera shows Cena walking down a corridor when there is a shout behind him. Michael Cole comes running after Cena and tells him that he needs to accompany him to the WWE owner’s office. Cena looks a little worried as they head off to see Chip Butty ...

Back in the arena, it is time for the next match of the evening ...


*** NEW FOUNDATION ***

HART DYNASTY
(w/Natalya)

Grisham and Foley hype up the next match as the Dynasty head down for their Number 1 contender match to determine who will get to challenge the Tag Team Champions for their titles in the coming future ...

*** BRINGIN’ DA HOOD T U ***

CRYME TYME

As JTG and Shad make their way towards the ring, Grisham introduces replays of the first attempt at this match from RAW on Monday when the Tag Team Champions, the British Empire, got involved and caused a no-contest. Foley announces that the Empire have been told to stay out of the match this evening ...

*** RULE BRITTANIA ***

MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL
THE BRITISH EMPIRE

Tag Team Champions | (W/Finlay)

However, here they come to view proceedings up close anyway! As they approach the ring, Regal and Ryan with their Tag Team Championship belts and Finlay waving the Union Jack above his head, Cryme Tyme and the Hart Dynasty stare down at them and it is clear that both teams are desperate to get the chance to face them and to take their titles away after the events of the Rumble four weeks ago. The Empire sit down at the announce table, Regal is going to join the commentary team and the match is ready to start ...

TAG TEAM MATCH - #1 CONTENDER MATCH FOR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS:
CRYME TYME vs. HART DYNASTY (w/Natalya)

The Empire are true to their word, or Regal’s word anyway, and they stay sat at the announce table with just the intention of watching the match. This means that the two teams in the ring can focus on their match but inevitably they keep glancing over to check on the actions of the Empire. Neither side particularly gets the advantage although all four men – Shad, JTG, Tyson Kidd and David Hart Smith – are able to get in some offence as the match heads towards a completion ...

ENDING: The problems start though when the action leaves the ring and heads outside towards the announce table. After their warning from WWE management, the Empire stay out of it but their presence causes problems as well as the two legal men – Kidd and Shad – trade blows nearby. Shad manages to duck a shot from Kidd and he shoves him backwards into the announce table with a crunch. The referee orders JTG and Hart Smith to stay in their corners and the two face teams obey him as Shad waits to hit Kidd once more. He goes for a Big Boot but Kidd ducks it and Shad’s right boot connects with the face of Finlay – by accident – who is sat at the side of the desk. Immediately, Mason Ryan leaps up ready to make Shad pay but Regal holds him back. However, Shad is distracted and he gets in the face of Ryan. As the tension builds, Kidd also joins the argument as the referee is counting inside the ring ...

** 8 **
** 9 **
** 10 **

WINNER: DOUBLE COUNT-OUT (07:18)
Frustration all round as Shad and Kidd realise that they have both been counted out and have blown another opportunity to earn their shot at the Tag Team Championships. They both re-enter the ring and explain themselves to their partners, both of whom are sympathetic, and then both teams turn their sights on the Empire. Ryan looks as if he wants to get in the ring and rumble but Regal holds him back once more whilst he helps Finlay up at the same time. Using his brain, Regal guides his team around the ring and up the ramp where words are exchanged between all three teams. Tyson Kidd signals to the Empire that he and Hart Smith will soon win the titles but this makes Cryme Tyme annoyed and they point out that they are determined to win the titles as well. Arguments break out between Cryme Tyme and the Dynasty in the ring as the Empire slink away, still none the wiser over who their next challengers will be, with the crowd giving them grief over their cowardly ways again ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

SMACKDOWN returns with live footage backstage of Cryme Tyme and the Hart Dynasty who are still arguing over who should challenge for the Tag Team Championships. It begins to turn physical as Shad and David Hart Smith begin to shove each other and then all hell breaks loose as the two teams begin to fight. WWE officials stream out and separate the teams but there is no doubt that the tension between these two is escalating and this is no longer just about getting revenge over the Empire no more ...

The cameras switch to the General Manager Michael Cole’s office where we see Cole, a sheepish looking John Cena and the WWE owner, Chip Butty. Butty looks annoyed and he is clearly upset with Cena who he is staring at. He reprimands Cena for his attack on Orton and reminds him that he demanded that there was no physical contact between them unless they were in an official match. He reminds us that he vowed that Orton would be suspended six months if he broke that rule and that Cena would be suspended and would also lose his WrestleMania 27 title shot if he did. Cena looks horrified and Cole pleads his case for him and says that after all the taunts and mocking from Orton in the past few weeks, it is a wonder that Cena hasn’t cracked earlier. Really, Cole? Are you sure? Butty takes this into consideration and he tells Cena that we are only two days away from the Elimination Chamber and for that reason, he is going to show some leniency. The crowd are split – some wanted to see Cena lose the title shot but others are ready to see Orton and Cena clash this Sunday. Butty warns Cena that he doesn’t care who it is, his orders must be followed. Cena sucks up a little and thanks Butty before exiting with a look of relief on his face.

The cameras return to the ring where Foley and Grisham discuss this development before ...


*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***

CHRISTIAN

The crowd stand and cheer as one of the most popular men in the WWE heads out to a great reception. As Christian scans the crowd for his Peeps – and there are a lot of them here tonight – Foley and Grisham discuss his chances at Elimination Chamber this Sunday. Foley says that Christian was desperately unlucky not to win the World Championship at the Rumble and that he showed guts and determination that show he has an amazing chance this Sunday. Grisham reminds us that over the past couple of weeks, World Champion CM Punk has done everything possible to ensure that Christian would get his shot again this Sunday despite the best efforts of Michael Cole who would rather Christian had no chance. Foley says that Punk’s actions are to be applauded but says he suspects that there is a reason behind them that is a little bit more than simply proving himself to be the “Best in the World” ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***

CM PUNK
World Heavyweight Champion

Speaking of the World Champion, here he comes with the SMACKDOWN crowd tonight in for a real treat as Punk and Christian meet in a rematch of their Royal Rumble classic. Foley says that he just can’t see how Punk can leave the Elimination Chamber PPV with the World Championship over his shoulder – he has to face not only Christian but a fired up and determined Kofi Kingston, the gigantic Big Show, the legendary Deadman and the unpredictable but dangerous Jeff Hardy. Foley suggests that if Punk was to leave as World Champion and head into a WrestleMania 27 showdown with John Cena then it would be his greatest ever achievement ...

NON-TITLE SINGLES MATCH:
CHRISTIAN vs. CM PUNK

Punk hands over his title belt and Christian looks at it with a look of longing in his eyes as the referee passes by to hand it to the timekeeper. The match begins and both men lock up with neither man able to get control in the early stages as they feel each other out – both men seem to realise the importance of a win here to build some momentum. In the end, it is the World Champion who makes the break as he surprises Christian with a back suplex and then hits the high knee in the corner. Grabbing Christian’s head, he drives it down into the mat with a fantastic bulldog before making the pinfall but Christian is able to kick out at 2 as SMACKDOWN heads into a commercial break ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

As SMACKDOWN returns, we see that CM Punk has retained control of the match but the match continues with constant switching between the two of them. Christian is determined to get a big win here two days from the Chamber and he almost defeats Punk when he connects with the Frog Splash but, as he did at the Rumble, Punk is able to save himself by reaching out and grabbing the bottom rope ...

ENDING: As the match moves past the 10:00 mark, it is appearing that it is heading towards being a SMACKDOWN 2011 classic but then the SMACKDOWN General Manager decides to spoil things as he wanders down to the ring ...


Punk, who is up on his feet first, berates Cole and tells him to go away but Cole points to himself and reminds Punk who the GM is. Punk rushes over at Christian and is caught in a snap powerslam ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** PUNK KICKS OUT! **

Now Christian notices that Michael Cole has made an appearance at ringside and, yet again, Cole is told to go away. Neither of these two men has a good relationship with the General Manager and it is hard to decide which man he would rather see win here. Cole appears to simply be ringside to watch the action but the distraction causes the match to become scrappy and disjointed. However, Punk manages to hit a second high knee/bulldog combination to Christian and this time he drags Christian up for the GTS ... However, Christian slips out of the move like a snake and he manages to set up for the Killswitch instead ... Punk powers towards the corner and Christian clatters into the turnbuckles and then falls through the ropes and down to the floor near Cole. The GM begins to talk trash to Christian and says he will never be the World Champion but then Punk heads out after Christian. He shoves Cole down away from his opponent and then returns to the ring as Cole looks on shocked. Punk lifts Christian to his shoulders and again looks to hit the GTS but Cole, angry at his treatment from Punk, slides into the ring and angrily yells at the World Champion. Punk lets Christian go and he takes a threatening step towards Cole who backs off. As Punk mocks Cole with a smirk, the SMACKDOWN crowd cheer for the World Champion – still getting a mixed reaction – as they hope for him to hurt Cole. Cole steps through the ropes whilst reminding Punk of the consequences of laying a finger on him and Punk shakes his head in amusement before turning back round ... KILLSWITCH! CHRISTIAN PLANTS PUNK’S FACE IN THE MAT WITH THE KILLSWITCH!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: CHRISTIAN (12:54)
Michael Cole looks on with a look of horror in his eyes at what just happened whilst Christian, realising what he has just done, celebrates in the corner – he has just pinned the World Champion two days before the Elimination Chamber match! The crowd are delighted for Christian who looks ready to burst with excitement and he signals that he will be the World Champion this Sunday. As he steps off the ropes, he looks into the eyes of Punk, who is sat up, and he taps his forehead knowingly. The message is clear – Christian did what he had to do tonight. Punk is looking furious but his grip on the World Championship appears to be slipping ... Christian takes the World Championship from the referee as he brings it back into the ring and he holds it out to Punk with a smirk on his face. Punk grasps it roughly away from Christian who laughs – can Christian defy the odds and become the World Champion this Sunday?

NXT RECAP:
Tuesday February 15, 2011

A reminder of the action from NXT last Tuesday is aired:
- Dolph Ziggler defeating Great Khali and Vladimir Kozlov to hit the #1 spot in the NXT Rankings
- Vickie Guerrero and Dolph Ziggler going their separate ways in an amicable split after his win
- Kaval getting his first win on NXT – other than winning the Royal Rumble NXT Battle Royal – as he defeats Cody Rhodes with the Ghetto Stomp
- Drew McIntyre – accompanied by JBL – hitting his team-mate Kaval with the Future Shock DDT afterwards
- Michelle McCool defeating Melina to earn her spot in the Divas Championship match this Sunday vs. Maryse (c) and Layla
- Layla and Maryse beating down McCool after her win after Melina took Kharma’s attention away for a moment
- R-Truth vs. Chavo Guerrero in the second NXT Elimination Match – Chavo hits the Frog Splash to win and survive
- Truth blaming Foley afterwards and attacking him with a steel chair – R-TRUTH ELIMINATED FROM NXT AND THE WWE!
*** COMMERCIAL ***

SMACKDOWN returns with Michelle McCool and Kharma stood together in the GM’s office. McCool is not happy as she stands waiting and she appears to be complaining to Kharma about the attack on her on NXT by Layla and the Divas Champion, Maryse, last Tuesday. She tells Kharma that whatever anybody else does or says, she needs to stay near to her at all times and protect her. She says the other WWE divas are so jealous of her talent and good looks that they will take any chance they can find to harm her. McCool tells Kharma that Melina is not important right now – she needs to concentrate on Maryse and Layla and winning the Divas Championship. Kharma nods in understanding and then Chip Butty walks into the room. He glances warily at Kharma but then greets McCool as if she is a long lost friend. He comments on how beautiful she looks tonight and she giggles like a schoolgirl and thanks the owner for his kind words. Butty moves on and says he has made contact as she asked. Michelle looks delighted with this news and she asks what he has found out. Butty tells her that her WrestleMania challenge has been accepted – but only if she is the Divas Champion. Butty tells Michelle that he doesn’t want to have wasted his time on this and demands that she go out on Sunday and win the Divas Championship. Michelle hugs Butty and kisses him on the cheek before promising to win. Excitedly, she claps her hands and skips out of the room beckoning Kharma to follow as Butty looks on with a huge grin on his face ...

The camera returns to the ring ...


*** LIVE FOR THE MOMENT ***

MATT HARDY

With a sour look on his face, Matt Hardy heads out to a mixed reception – not that he appears interested. He looks determined to get in the ring and get on with business and Foley says that the change in his attitude is alarming. Foley says that he has known these two men since they first broke into the WWE over fifteen years and he says that they were always simply there to live their dream of being WWE superstars. He says that it now appears to be, at least for Matt Hardy anyway, all about being the WWE or World Champion and that he looks to have forgotten their childhood dream. Grisham says that it is easy for Foley, and indeed Jeff Hardy, to say that – they have been the top dog, they’ve won the biggest titles whereas Matt hasn’t. Foley says he understands the desire to be the champion but to turn on your own brother over it is unforgiveable ...

*** NO MORE WORDS ***

JEFF HARDY

For the second time this evening, the crowd rise to their feet and cheer as Jeff makes his way down towards the ring but this time Jeff does it with a less cheery expression in his face. Replays of the earlier chair shots that Matt delivered to Jeff are shown before we return to the ring and see that Matt and Jeff are squaring up to each other with the referee trying to keep order. Jeff exits the ring and grabs a microphone. He addresses Matt and says that this is ridiculous. He says that he has said it before and he will say it again – if Matt wants the title match so bad, he can have it. Matt shakes his head and says something about charity so Jeff offers to put his spot in the Elimination Chamber on the line in this match. If Matt defeats him, Matt can enter the Elimination Chamber this Sunday instead. Matt nods his head with a smile on his face but then Jeff speaks again. Jeff says that he didn’t come back to the WWE to win the title but he says that after Matt’s actions in the last couple of weeks, he will be doing everything he can to win this match. He says that Matt needs humbling and reminding of what is important and that when he beats him, he will have punished Matt and he hopes that will be enough to remind Matt of his priorities.

SINGLES MATCH (Winner challenges for World Championship on Sunday in Elimination Chamber)
JEFF HARDY vs. MATT HARDY

These two know each other so well and the match is full of counters and counter-counters that make it difficult for either man to take control. Matt looks to be trying to slow the action down and keep it on the mat whereas Jeff is trying to speed things up so that he can go for his big, high-flying and high-risk offence that often proves to be the difference for him.

ENDING: The match twists and turns throughout but then Jeff counters out of the Side Effect and hits a Jawbreaker to Matt that leaves him sprawled on the mat clutching his chin. Jeff whips Matt across the ring into the corner buckles but as he charges in, Matt sidesteps and Jeff collides hard with the corner post with his shoulder. The cry of pain from Jeff is audible around the arena and Matt looks to take immediate advantage as he works on the shoulder over and over. Matt has Jeff in a whole heap of trouble as his arm hangs limp down by his side but Jeff shows incredible resolve and refuses to quit or be counted down. A swing of his good right arm is easy for Matt to duck though ... SIDE EFFECT! MATT HITS JEFF WITH THE SIDE EFFECT! Jeff is down and out as Matt makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** KICK OUT FROM JEFF HARDY AT THE LAST MOMENT! **

Matt cannot believe it and he stomps away at Jeff’s arm with an angry look on his face now. He retreats to the outside of the ring and returns with two steel chairs to the annoyance of the referee. He throws one down and looks to set himself with the other to smash Jeff but the referee drags the chair out of his hands despite Matt’s protests. As the referee looks to get rid of the chair, Matt picks up the other one and sets himself but Jeff hits a Mule Kick and the chair connects hard with Matt’s chest instead. Jeff grabs the chair as Matt drops it and rams it into his gut to leave Matt down on the mat in pain. As the ref turns, Jeff tosses the chair aside and sets Matt up ... TWIST OF FATE! JEFF HITS MATT WITH THE TWIST OF FATE! As the crowd will Jeff on, he decides against the pin and climbs slowly up the turnbuckles to the top rope. Struggling to grip with his injured arm and shoulder, progress is slow but Matt is down and out on the mat. Can Jeff get there in time? SWANTON BOMB CONNECTS! Jeff hooks the leg ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER: JEFF HARDY (09:32)
As Jeff’s music blares out around the arena, Grisham reminds us all that the victory there means that Jeff is secure in his Elimination Chamber place to challenge for the World Championship whilst Matt Hardy will, simply, have the night off on Sunday instead. Foley admits to feeling a little sorry for the older Hardy brother and says that it is a shame things have gone this way for him – he suggests it must tear him apart to see Jeff challenging for World Championships on a regular basis. As Matt staggers, embarrassed, away from the ring, Jeff watches him and shakes his head a little. Whilst Jeff acknowledges the crowd, he is clearly not pleased with how things are turning out with his young brother.

*** COMMERCIAL ***


SMACKDOWN returns with a rundown of the card for the Elimination Chamber PPV ...


US CHAMPIONSHIP:
JUSTIN GABRIEL (c) vs. TED DiBIASE

After defeating Daniel Bryan in a Ladder Match at the Rumble, DiBiase now has the chance to challenge one on one for the US Championship. After having his first opportunity changed into a Triple Threat – which allowed Gabriel to win the US Title in the first place – DiBiase is adamant that he should already be the US Champion. However, the South African Gabriel has been on a roll since leaving Nexus, despite their attentions of late, and will be looking to retain his title heading towards WrestleMania 27. With a chance to defend the title at the biggest PPV of the year on the horizon, both men will be desperate to win this Sunday ...


INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP:
ALBERTO DEL RIO (c) (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. REY MYSTERIO

Since he arrived in the WWE just under 6 months, Alberto Del Rio has been on a tear. He has taken out some of the WWE’s greatest names with the Cross Arm Breaker including Mark Henry, Christian and fellow Mexican, Rey Mysterio. However, we have rarely seen Del Rio rattled like he was back at the Royal Rumble when Mysterio returned from injury and immediately targeted him. Del Rio claims that Mysterio is an embarrassment to Mexico and that he is not worthy to challenge him but the WWE board determined last week that Mysterio would be the man to challenge Del Rio this Sunday. After Del Rio took away four months of Mysterio’s career, Mysterio now looks to take away the cherished Intercontinental Championship of Del Rio when they meet at the PPV ...


WWE CHAMPIONSHIP:
WADE BARRETT (c) vs. JOHN MORRISON

Since winning the WWE Championship at Survivor Series, Barrett has successfully defended the title against an impressive array of WWE superstarts – Randy Orton, Triple H and Kurt Angle have all failed to take the title away from him. However, the accusations that Barrett is a lucky champion continue to dog him thanks to the circumstances involving those wins – every single victory has been tainted with either the murky fingerprints of John Cena or the Nexus. So why should it be any different this time for new challenger, John Morrison? Morrison made it clear immediately that he considered Barrett’s title reign to be solely down to the presence of Nexus and goaded Barrett into making several comments that put down his team-mates. And when it came to the crunch on RAW, Nexus deserted the WWE Champion which means he will defend the title alone this Sunday. With an even playing field, can Morrison do what no other man has done and defeat Wade Barrett to win the WWE Championship? It would be the first major title of Morrison’s career and the crowd will no doubt be behind him. However, Barrett is determined to prove all the doubters wrong and head into WrestleMania as the WWE Champion ...

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH – WINNER TO CHALLENGE FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27:
DANIEL BRYAN vs. EDGE vs. KURT ANGLE vs. THE MIZ vs. SHEAMUS vs. TRIPLE H

With Barrett and Morrison battling over the title in the WWE Championship match, the identity of the man to challenge for the title at WrestleMania will also be determined in RAW’s Elimination Chamber contest. With the Chamber now established as the most dangerous match of the year, it is the last chance for these six men to prove that they should be in the WrestleMania main event this year – but they will have to put everything on the line in the brutal Chamber. With four former WWE Champions in the match, there is no lack of experience whilst Daniel Bryan is looking to build from an extremely successful 2010 as is Miz who has been on a major roll since last Summer. Which of these six will challenge Barrett or Morrison at WrestleMania?

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH – WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP:
CM PUNK (c) vs. BIG SHOW vs. CHRISTIAN vs. JEFF HARDY vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE UNDERTAKER

Whereas RAW’s Elimination Chamber is to determine the Number 1 contender for WrestleMania, SMACKDOWN already has a Number 1 contender thanks to John Cena winning the Royal Rumble. Therefore, the question is – who will Cena challenge in Atlanta? CM Punk has been speaking long and loud over his intention to defeat Cena at WrestleMania and prove that he is the ‘Best in the World’ but these comments have hardly endeared him to the five men he faces in the Chamber this Sunday. The 500 pound giant, Big Show. The man who came so close to defeating Punk at the Rumble, Christian. The man Punk forced to leave the WWE a year ago, Jeff Hardy. The exciting ‘Breakout Star of 2010’, Kofi Kingston. And finally, the Phenom of the WWE and the man with a glittering record at WrestleMania, the Undertaker. With so many big names in the Chamber for SMACKDOWN, it seems impossible to call who will walk out and face Cena as the World Champion when we reach Atlanta ...

LAST MAN STANDING MATCH
JOHN CENA vs. RANDY ORTON

But will Cena make it to WrestleMania? Not according to Randy Orton, the man who vows to end Cena’s WrestleMania hopes when he faces him this Sunday. Problems between Cena and Orton have been brewing for years but have intensified in the past four months since an irritated Cena was voted against by the WWE Universe at Cyber Sunday. Cena, fearing the growing popularity of the Viper, resented Orton’s success and at the Survivor Series, he was pinned by Justin Gabriel, then of the Nexus, to lose Orton’s title and hand it to Wade Barrett. Although Cena has denied deliberately losing the title, Orton believes it was done on purpose and the two of them have engaged in a bitter war since. Cena cost Orton the title in his rematch, the pair clashed in an epic at Vengeance which Cena won in trying circumstances, they clashed again at the Rumble with Cena hitting Orton with an FU in the concrete parking lot only for Orton to return to the ring and the pair of them battled it out at the end – Cena ultimately winning but in dodgy circumstances yet again. After Orton won a ‘Beat the Clock’ challenge, he had the right to choose the stipulation after Cena challenged him to a match at the Chamber PPV to end their feud once and for all. With Cena hoping to move on to WrestleMania afterwards, Orton vows to end those hopes and make sure Cena watches WrestleMania from the hospital instead.

The cameras show Foley and Grisham ringside at the announce table flanked by four of the big names scheduled for the Elimination Chamber from SMACKDOWN – John Cena and World Champion CM Punk on the right of the announce desk, Jeff Hardy and Christian on the left. The four of them are putting forward their cases for why they will retain or win the World Championship – either on Sunday or at WrestleMania – as we prepare for tonight’s main event ...

*** CRANK IT UP ***

BIG SHOW

As Show comes down to the ring, the conversation at the announce desk concerns the devastating right hand of the gigantic Big Show. Foley says that if he connects with five of those right hands at the Chamber and then once more at WrestleMania, then there is no doubt in his mind that Big Show will walk out of the WrestleMania main event as the World Champion. Punk says that Show’s right hand is to be feared but he suggests that Show needs to catch him to connect with it in the first place and he should be fearing the GTS much much more. Christian laughs at this and says he kicked out of the GTS not once but twice at the Rumble – he says that he knows he must avoid the Big Show’s WMD punch whereas he would just like to avoid the GTS ...

*** SOS ***

KOFI KINGSTON

Todd Grisham hypes up the achievements of Kofi as he bounds out to the ring and the green and yellow pyro explodes in the arena. He says that Kingston is the underdog but he has shown in the past few months that he is definite WWE main eventer now and that it is only a matter of time before he is the WWE or World Champion. Cena scoffs at this and tells Grisham that there isn’t one man in the match on Sunday or himself that fears Kofi. Cena says that Kofi is a high-risk superstar and that while he is capable of shocking the world, he isn’t capable of shocking the world six times to beat six men and be World Champion. Jeff Hardy pipes up and says that he respects the hell out of Kofi and believes that Grisham is right – Kofi is going to be the champion sooner rather than later although Jeff believes that he has enough to defeat him at the Chamber. Punk comments that Kofi seems unable to win the big match and compares him to Christian which causes Christian to raise an eyebrow and retort that he beat Punk earlier tonight ...

*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***
*** GONG ***

*** GRAVEYARD SYMPHONY ***


THE UNDERTAKER

Darkness falls across the arena as the fog and mist settles and the eerie entrance of the Phenom of the WWE, The Undertaker, begins. Foleys says that this man is a legend and that at WrestleMania he will be looking to go 19-0 now that he has extinguished the threat of his brother, Kane. To do that, Undertaker could become the World Champion and then defeat Cena at WrestleMania. All four men at ringside have gone quiet as they watch Undertaker head for the ring but this comment knocks Cena into a response. Cena says that he respects the accomplishments of Undertaker, particularly at WrestleMania, but then says that he believes that there is nobody on SMACKDOWN or RAW that can defeat him – including the Undertaker. Punk claims to be the only man to have ever made Undertaker tap out which causes amusement to Christian and Jeff Hardy as Taker enters the ring and removes his coat and hat and we are ready for this Triple Threat match ...

TRIPLE THREAT MATCH:
BIG SHOW vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE UNDERTAKER

In the early stages, size matters as Kofi Kingston takes a real battering from the two big men, Taker and Big Show. This leads to an encounter between Taker and Show, they clashed on SMACKDOWN last week twice, and they begin to try and destroy each other with the Chamber on the horizon. However, Kofi is like an annoying fly as he keeps interfering in their battle and hitting high risk moves to break things up. The match continues in a similar vein as we head into the final commercial of the evening ...

*** COMMERCIAL ***

ENDING: When we return to the main event, Undertaker is starting to dominate as he twists Show’s arm and walks the top rope. However, Kofi, with no respect for legendary pasts, climbs the buckles and leaps off to hit a kick to Taker’s legs that crotches him across the top rope. Show drags Taker off the ropes and clutches his throat ... CHOKE SLAM! BIG SHOW HITS THE CHOKE SLAM TO UNDERTAKER!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** UNDERTAKER KICKS OUT! **

Growling with rage, Show steps back and withdraws his right hand now ... He is going to smash Undertaker hard in the skull! As Taker staggers up after the Choke Slam, Show pulls back ... just as Kofi springboards off the ropes and dropkicks him in the chest. Show staggers backwards as Kofi and Taker go at it now and battle. Show tries to insert himself into the battle but Taker and Kofi knock him back, Taker with choke thrusts and Kofi with kicks and running forearms, and continue their battles. Undertaker suddenly grabs Kofi by the throat ... CHOKE SLAM! UNDERTAKER HITS THE CHOKE SLAM ON KOFI KINGSTON!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** BIG SHOW KICKS TAKER IN THE HEAD! **

A little luck there for Kofi – would he have been able to kick out before 3? Taker and Show trade right hands now as Kofi rolls away and to the floor where he recovers on his knees. At the announce desk, the other four men watch on with a discussion about hoping this goes on a long time to tire these men out before Sunday! Taker and Show are battling hard but it is Show that has more power and he slams Taker down on the mat and pulls back looking for the WMD Punch again. However, Taker ducks it and kicks Show hard in the gut before clutching his huge throat ... CHOKE SLAM! UNDERTAKER CHOKE SLAMS BIG SHOW! The crowd cheer and holler but Taker isn’t done as he cuts across his throat ... Surely not? Show wobbles towards him and Taker, with a huge effort, scoops up Big Show ... Wow! Big Show in real trouble here! TOMBSTONE! UNDERTAKER TOMBSTONES BIG SHOW! He crosses Show’s arms across his chest and goes for the victory ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** KOFI BREAKS IT UP! **

Undertaker gets to his knees angrily ... TROUBLE IN PARADISE! KOFI HITS TROUBLE IN PARADISE TO UNDERTAKER! Taker is stunned and falls down in the corner as Kofi looks to sneak out the win as he pins Big Show ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **


WINNER: KOFI KINGSTON (10:35)
As SOS blares out around the arena, Kofi Kingston leaps up on the turnbuckles with a look of astonishment in his eyes as he celebrates a huge win here tonight! With momentum now on his side, Grisham and Foley speculate that Sunday could be Kofi’s big night ... Big Show staggers over and drags Kofi off the turnbuckles though and he plants his hand around the throat of Ghanaian ... CHOKE SLAM! CHOKE SLAM FROM SHOW TO KOFI! The men at the announce desk desert now and head into the ring, Christian and Jeff Hardy take it in turns to kick and punch at Show until he hits the mat ... Christian points to the top rope and Jeff climbs quickly ... SWANTON BOMB FROM JEFF TO BIG SHOW! As Hardy gets up though, Christian kicks him in the gut to the surprise of many ... KILLSWITCH! CHRISTIAN HITS THE KILLSWITCH ON JEFF HARDY! Christian gets up to his feet and looks down on Hardy with a shrug of the shoulders before signalling that he is going to be wearing the World Championship this Sunday and it’s all about that! Behind him is trouble though ... CM Punk creeps up on Christian looking for revenge ... GO TO SLEEP! CM PUNK LEVELS CHRISTIAN WITH A GTS! Grabbing his World Title belt, Punk raises it high and shouts out “Best in the World” ... just as Undertaker walks up behind him! CM Punk drops his belt in surprise as Taker spins him round and hits three well placed Choke Thrusts before a Big Boot crashes him down to the mat. Undertaker drags Punk up from the mat ... TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER! UNDERTAKER TOMBSTONES THE WORLD CHAMPION! But wait a minute ...

Cena is in the ring ...

FU! CENA HITS THE FU ON UNDERTAKER! With all six men down who will be competing in the Elimination Chamber this Sunday for the World Championship, the last man left standing is the man who one of them is scheduled to face at WrestleMania ... Cena points to the WrestleMania logo in the rafters and then picks up the World Title ... He lifts it in the air to boos and jeers when suddenly Randy Orton is in the ring stalking behind him ... RKO! ORTON HITS THE RKO ON CENA! The crowd roar their approval but Foley and Grisham speculate over whether Orton just made a huge mistake by attacking Cena tonight? As SMACKDOWN fades out, we see the Viper stood over Cena with a look of aggression in his eyes as we move closer and closer to the Elimination Chamber PPV ... DON’T MISS IT THIS SUNDAY!


*** END OF SHOW ***

=========================================


ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011

*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

LAST MAN STANDING MATCH
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Christian vs. The Undertaker

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
Daniel Bryan vs. Kurt Angle vs. The Miz vs. Sheamus vs. Edge vs. Triple H

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. John Morrison
(Nexus barred from ringside)

UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP
Justin Gabriel (c) vs. Ted DiBiase

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Alberto Del Rio (c) vs. Rey Mysterio

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla vs. Michelle McCool (w/Kharma)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***

*** 2 DAYS AWAY ***

ELIMINATION CHAMBER PREDICTIONS:

Divas Championship - Maryse / Layla / Michelle McCool

US Championship - Justin Gabriel / Ted DiBiase

IC Championship - Alberto Del Rio / Rey Mysterio

WWE Championship - Wade Barrett / John Morrison

World Championship (EC) - CM Punk / Big Show / Christian / Jeff Hardy / Kofi Kingston / Undertaker

RAW Elimination Chamber - Daniel Bryan / Edge / Kurt Angle / The Miz / Sheamus / Triple H

Last Man Standing - John Cena / Randy Orton
 
#127 ·
Smackdown Review

- Personally in my opinion I just hate Michael Cole as the Smackdown General Manager and what I do hate even more or what annoys me to no end is the fact that he does these State of Smackdown Addresses each and every week to the point where it becomes almost unbearable and just downright annoying to watch but personally he should just go back to being an announcer or better yet he can be a manager for a superstar

- But I will give you props on how you started Smackdown with Jeff Hardy and then out of nowhere his former bitter rival CM Punk The Best In The World interrupts him and then afterwards they end up going back and forth with one another and then the segment ending with Matt Hardy attacking his brother Jeff yet again

- The 6-man tag team match with Swagger, Hawkins and Del Rio facing the team of Ryder, Mysterio, and my man Randy Orton, I definitely loved it because it gave Orton pretty much a warm-up heading into Elimination Chamber for when he faces Cena, so I definitely loved it because it also gives Mysterio momentum heading into Elimination Chamber for when he faces Del Rio for the Intercontinental Championship

- Orton explaining just why he RKOed HBK and why he felt that he had to get it out of his system even though it was nothing personal and then out of nowhere Cena who was not even scheduled to be there comes from the crowd and attacks Orton laying him out with an FU, Cena should be suspended because he broke the no-contact rule

- Cryme Tyme vs The Hart Dynasty ending in a double countout and all because of The British Empire, I loved it, but at the same time now just who will be the #1 Contenders for the WWE Unified Tag Team Championship, I see a Triple-Threat Tag Team Match happening now

- Chip Butty, here he goes again showing blatant favoritism towards Cena yet again even after he broke the no-contact rule attacking Orton, Cena should have lost his WrestleMania 27 title shot hell he should have been suspended but no Cena keeps his title shot, no punishment whatsoever and all because of ratings, Chip is in a position of power and he is clearly abusing it, because Cena should have been suspended right then and there but I guess in a way I want to see Cena and Orton go at it at Elimination Chamber so then that way I can see Orton not just RKO Cena but to Punt Cena in the skull so hard that he doesn't even make it to WrestleMania

- Christian vs CM Punk for me I loved this match a whole lot and what I loved even more was Michael Cole trying to help CM Punk and Punk trying to tell Cole to go away only for Christian to take advantage of the situation winning the match and all because of Cole's help, Cole cost Punk a match, I wonder what Punk is going to do to Cole

- Chip Butty's segment with Michelle McCool and Kharma I didn't really care for at all, I don't know why, I just think it was a waste of time to be honest

- Jeff Hardy beats his brother Matt Hardy yet again, just goes to show you Jeff was always better than Matt and still is, Matt Hardy just can't seem to catch a break can't he

- Then the Elimination Chamber card being ran down, I loved it

- And then the main event of Big Show facing Kofi and Taker in a Triple-Threat Match, I loved it, and what I loved even more was my countryman of Ghana, Kofi Kingston winning the match because that gives Kofi even more momentum heading into the Smackdown Elimination Chamber match at Elimination Chamber

- But the ending of Smackdown I loved and it all ending with Cena standing tall after FUing Taker was great and then Orton with sweet revenge RKOing Cena, he should have punted Cena's brains out but honestly I just want to see these 2 go at it now more than ever, the sooner the better

- Hopefully you have CM Punk change his theme song from This Fire Burns to Cult of Personality because personally I think Cult of Personality is a way better theme song than the one he used to have, and hopefully he aligns himself with Paul Heyman at some point in your diary and hopefully we see such superstars like Sin Cara, Damien Sandow, Antonio Cesaro, The Shield of Ambrose, Rollins and Reigns as well as Brodus Clay all debut at some point as well
 
#128 ·
ELIMINATION CHAMBER PREDICTIONS:

Divas Championship - Maryse / Layla / Michelle McCool

US Championship - Justin Gabriel / Ted DiBiase

IC Championship - Alberto Del Rio / Rey Mysterio

WWE Championship - Wade Barrett / John Morrison

World Championship (EC) - CM Punk / Big Show / Christian / Jeff Hardy / Kofi Kingston / Undertaker

RAW Elimination Chamber - Daniel Bryan / Edge / Kurt Angle / The Miz / Sheamus / Triple H

Last Man Standing - John Cena / Randy Orton



1) Maryse wins the WWE Divas Championship and as for who she pins, I say she will pin Michelle McCool and McCool will end up blaming Kharma for her loss and then afterwards she will try to attack Kharma only for Kharma to overpower her quite easily beating the holy hell out of McCool

2) Justin Gabriel retains the WWE United States Championship by beating Ted DiBiase

3) Alberto Del Rio retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship by DQ getting himself intentionally disqualified, so he loses the match but still keeps his title

4) John Morrison becomes the new WWE Champion beating Wade Barrett and then afterwards Barrett attacks Morrison leaving him prone and vulnerable enough for Miz to come in and cash in his MITB briefcase and he cashes in on his former tag team partner now bitter rival Morrison by becoming the new WWE Champion

5) Jeff Hardy becomes the new World Heavyweight Champion by last eliminating CM Punk to win the World Heavyweight Championship inside the Chamber, with Hardy going to Mania as the champion and then Punk cashing in his re-match clause at Mania only for Cena to get involved making it a Triple-Threat Match at Mania 27

6) Triple H wins the RAW EC match but if Miz cashes in earlier in the night to become WWE Champion, then it ups the stakes in the RAW EC match because then it would be for the WWE Championship, so in that case Triple H would then be my pick to win the WWE Championship by last eliminating Miz

7) Cena I somehow see him winning this, I don't know how or why even though I want Orton to win but I just see someone coming in costing Orton the match to the point where he can't answer the ref's 10 count but as for who attacks Orton, I don't know
 
#129 ·

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 20, 2011 | @ THE JOE LOUIS ARENA, DETROIT, MICHIGAN | *** PREVIEW ***

Six weeks from WrestleMania 27, the WWE Universe head into Detroit for the annual Elimination Chamber, the final, brutal, stop on the long winding road that is heading for Atlanta. Royal Rumble winner John Cena is already assured of his place in the WrestleMania main event but there are fourteen other WWE superstars that could tonight secure their spot as well. On SMACKDOWN’s side of things, the Elimination Chamber match for the blue brand features six guys vying to be the World Champion and face Cena at WrestleMania. The RAW Elimination Chamber match will determine the number one contender for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania whilst the WWE Champion will be decided when John Morrison challenges Wade Barrett for the title. Speaking of Cena, he will be in action as well as he faces up to his long time nemesis, Randy Orton, who is adamant that Cena will not make it to WrestleMania despite his Rumble win. What an amazing night we have ahead of us …

LAST MAN STANDING MATCH
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

For months, Cena and Orton have been at each other’s throats although many people, Cena included, would argue that this feud began a long time earlier than that. For years, John Cena has been the poster boy of the WWE, the “Face of the WWE” and, according to the man himself, the man the WWE Universe could count on to stand up and rid the WWE of the threat of the bad guys. In 2010 alone, Cena vanquished the threat of the Animal Batista before spending much of the year standing up to the formidable force of the Nexus. Faced with a vocal minority of fans who decided to boo his every move, Cena continued to display the characteristics of the ultimate WWE superstar – but he accuses the WWE Universe of losing faith in him and taking him for granted. When the WWE Universe failed to vote Cena into the Cyber Sunday WWE Championship match between Orton and Barrett, the seeds were sown for a devastating display of petulance. At Survivor Series, whilst on Team Orton and being responsible for defending Orton’s WWE Championship, Cena deliberately, as we have since found out, allowed Justin Gabriel to hit the 450 Splash and pin him resulting in the WWE Championship heading to Barrett’s waist instead. Cena followed this by interfering in Orton’s rematch as he targeted the Viper as being the symbol of the WWE Universe’s new affections and ensured that Orton would not regain the title. Enraged, Orton has since vowed revenge on Cena – despite Cena being drafted to SMACKDOWN – although he has so far failed in his attempts; Cena won their first meeting at Vengeance and then, with a little assistance from Kurt Angle towards the end, eliminated Orton to win the Royal Rumble. Can Orton finally get his revenge tonight? Or will Cena be able to take a huge momentum boost into WrestleMania? One thing is for sure, tonight will be the conclusion of this epic battle between two of the WWE’s top stars and Orton appears to be less focused on winning this time, he would rather destroy Cena and his WrestleMania dreams.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
Wade Barrett (c) vs. John Morrison

For months, Morrison has been building momentum and heading towards the upper echelons of Monday Night RAW. Now he has the biggest opportunity of his career as he challenges for the WWE Championship for the first time ever. After seeing off high calibre stars in Kurt Angle, Triple H and The Miz just to earn the opportunity to face Barrett, Morrison must be feeling confident that he can finally get the biggest win of his life and defeat Barrett to become WWE Champion – just in time for WrestleMania. And the timing could not be better for the popular young star. As well as being six weeks from WrestleMania, Morrison runs into a weakened Wade Barrett after his recent troubles with his former team-mates in the Nexus. After dominating the WWE and RAW for months since their arrival, the other members of Nexus have cut their ties from Barrett and tonight, for the first time ever, he defends the WWE Championship without them in his corner. Can Morrison take advantage and win his first WWE Championship? Or will Barrett be able to rise above the adversity and prove that he does deserve to be the WWE Champion even without Nexus? With WrestleMania approaching, both men will be doing all they can to get the win and head into the biggest night of the year as WWE Champion to main event WrestleMania.

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH
WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Christian vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Kofi Kingston vs. The Undertaker

The World Championship is on the line in SMACKDOWN’s Elimination Chamber and it is anyone’s guess who will emerge from the demonic structure clutching the blue brand’s holy grail. Since winning the World Championship almost three months ago, CM Punk has defended the title against many different people and has managed to retain. However, tonight, six weeks before he could headline WrestleMania against John Cena, he has to somehow find a way to defeat five other men to retain the title – a tall order indeed. And not just any five men! Five of SMACKDOWN’s very best. First off, the “World’s Largest Athlete”, the colossal Big Show, a monster of a man that Punk beat to win the title and a very angry giant out for revenge. Second, Christian, the man who took CM Punk to the very limit at the Royal Rumble when he challenged, a man who CM Punk failed to beat and only retained the title thanks to Christian passing out. In truth, Punk is the man who has petitioned for Christian to be involved in the match – Punk says he wants to prove he can beat Christian – but many suggest that Christian could be the man to end Punk’s title reign. Next, the returning Jeff Hardy, who, despite his well publicised issues with his older brother, is a major danger to Punk, a former champion and a man who has a deep running issue with Punk after Punk forced him out of the WWE just over a year ago. Kofi Kingston is also challenging and many speculate that tonight is finally going to be Kofi’s night. With the Ghanaian getting closer and closer and closer to SMACKDOWN’s top prize, the 2010 Breakout Star is determined that he will find a way tonight and finally win the big one to become World Champion. And, as if that wasn’t enough for Punk, having finally seen off the threat of his brother, Kane, The Undertaker is competing in the match – with WrestleMania in sight, we all know what the Deadman is capable of and if he wins the World Championship tonight, John Cena would have to break the Streak to win the title. Which one of SMACKDOWN’s top stars will be World Champion at WrestleMania and face Cena in the main event? The ominous Elimination Chamber will provide the answers.

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH
Daniel Bryan vs. Edge vs. Kurt Angle vs. The Miz vs. Sheamus vs. Triple H

Six of RAW’s best also clash in the Chamber but they will not be battling to win a title; they will battle to earn a shot at the WWE Championship at WrestleMania. With Wade Barrett and John Morrison battling it out for the title at another point, these six will be looking to earn their spot in the main event by outlasting the other five here tonight. Will Daniel Bryan be able to take the next step in his promising career? Since arriving with the Nexus in the summer, Bryan has got on a roll and he won the US Championship from The Miz within months of this. Despite losing the title to Justin Gabriel at Vengeance, Bryan is making great strides in the WWE and his career has impressed many so far. One of his opponents tonight will be the infinitely more experienced, in the WWE anyway, Rated R Superstar Edge. Despite his array of titles and accomplishments, the RAW General Manager Shawn Michaels has been stubborn with Edge and has refused him title chances over the past months. With the tension between them building, Edge finally earned the right to be in the Chamber tonight with a controversial win over Chris Jericho on RAW last week through use of an exposed turnbuckle. One man who had no such problems qualifying was Kurt Angle and he heads into the Chamber feeling confident. With his gold medal around his neck and his Team Angle behind him, Kurt has gained so much momentum lately and heads into the Chamber with a lot of expectation that he will challenge for the title at WrestleMania. However, he could not prevent his nemesis Triple H qualifying for the Chamber and the Game, one of the most experienced men in the WWE, will be out to show he deserves another huge title opportunity tonight as he heads into the Chamber having competed in the most Chamber matches and won more than any other star in the WWE. Money in the Bank contract holder The Miz has also earned the right to enter the Chamber tonight and he has to be applauded for that; it would be easy for Miz to sit back and watch the Chamber match content that he has the contract for a title shot whenever he wants. However, he wants to win it on the biggest stage and qualifying for WrestleMania could see him win the WWE Championship in the WrestleMania main event – a big incentive for any guy with as much arrogance as he has. Finally, the unpredictable Irish Celtic Warrior, Sheamus, heads into the Chamber as the favourite. He has been tearing every guy he meets apart of late, he has two huge recent wins over Triple H and he appears to be the most destructive man to enter the RAW Chamber – mixing him with the steel and chain appears to be a recipe for injury and disaster. Which man will challenge for the WWE Championship in six weeks?

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Alberto Del Rio (c) vs. Rey Mysterio

The first act of Del Rio when he arrived in the WWE was to target his fellow countryman, Rey Mysterio. And target him he did. Within weeks, Del Rio had two victories over Rey and then, one SMACKDOWN, injured the arm of Mysterio and left him on the shelf just as he did with Christian weeks later. Although he failed to damage Christian as much, he has been on a massive roll in the WWE so far, losing one match in the six months he has been here and winning the Intercontinental Championship back at Cyber Sunday over four months ago from Dolph Ziggler. With Evan Bourne and Mark Henry defeated in recent months, Del Rio was a favourite to win the Rumble but he was shocked by the return of Mysterio and we now have an Intercontinental Championship match that should tell us how far Del Rio can go here in the WWE. Can he beat one of the best in the WWE and show he is destined to be a WWE or World Champion someday? Or can Mysterio take revenge on Del Rio and take away his previous Intercontinental Championship?

ALSO:

UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP
Justin Gabriel defends the gold against Ted DiBiase.

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse defends the title in a Triple Threat match against former champion Layla and Michelle McCool – accompanied by the ominous Kharma of course.
 
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