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WWE: The Evolution Of Greed

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#1 · (Edited)
greed (grēd)
n. An excessive desire to acquire or possess more than what one needs or deserves, especially with respect to material wealth:
"Many... attach to competition the stigma of selfish greed"
(Henry Fawcett)
WWE: The Evolution Of Greed​

~Backstory~​

December 3, 2006 – Mere hours after the conclusion of the disastrous ECW brand pay-per-view, December To Dismember, Vince McMahon is faced with the task of admitting failure on his resurrection of ECW. With Paul Heyman tendering his resignation due to the creative direction of the show, Spike TV officials unhappy regarding dwindling TV ratings, former ECW wrestlers complaining at the tarnishing of the legacy they helped build and the prospect of a humiliating pay-per-view buyrate set to be revealed, Vince is forced to call time on the ECW brand.

December 5, 2006 – It is announced that ECW will not survive into the new year. The December 26th episode, scheduled to be a “Best of ECW 2006” show, will be the last episode of ECW on Sci-Fi. The other five participants in the extreme elimination chamber, Rob Van Dam, CM Punk, Hardcore Holly, Test and former champion Big Show would face off to determine who would face new champion Bobby Lashley on the December 19th episode. Many members of the current ECW roster naturally fear for their jobs within the company, with it seeming only the main eventers of the brand guaranteed jobs in the near future.

December 17, 2006 – The Armageddon pay-per-view arrives, with the card needing the help of Raw superstars to drive the storylines heading into the show. Many feuds were wrapped up, including the Hardy Boyz/MNM feud, the Booker T/John Cena feud that started at Cyber Sunday and the Mr Kennedy/Undertaker and MVP/Kane feuds would also come to a close. A portion of the card would be devoted to the ECW Championship, with Bobby Lashley declaring in an interview that as an impending free agent, he and the rest of the ECW roster would soon be making a decision with regards to what brand they would be joining.

~Armageddon Results~

Kane def. Montel Vontavious Porter in an inferno match

The Holligans def. The Bluebloods, MNM and the Hardy Boyz in a ladder match to retain the WWE Tag Team Championship

The Boogeyman def. The Miz

Chris Benoit def. Chavo Guerrero to retain the United States Championship

Gregory Helms def. Jimmy Wang Yang to retain the Cruiserweight Championship

The Undertaker def. Mr Kennedy in a Last Ride Match

Batista and John Cena def. King Booker and Finlay

December 18, 2006 – On Raw the following night, a 30 man battle royal would see Edge emerge victorious, earning him a WWE Championship match with John Cena later in the evening. However, the title match would be riddled with interference, leading to a six man tag featuring Cena and DX against Edge, Randy Orton and Rated-RKO’s newest recruit Kenny Dykstra. Elsewhere, Umaga would continue his wave of destruction in a squash match victory, Carlito and Chris Masters would continue their feud during a ringside brawl, while Johnny Nitro and Melina would hype up the January 1st appearance of Kevin Federline.

December 19, 2006 - The penultimate episode of ECW on Sci-Fi airs, with former champion Big Show challenging Bobby Lashley for the ECW Championship in what was Show’s last match for the foreseeable future. Lashley would pick up the win, retaining the title, however the future of the championship remains in the balance. Elsewhere, ECW Originals Tommy Dreamer, Sabu and Sandman would all make appearances, while Rob Van Dam and CM Punk would steal the show with a great match, with both men shaking hands afterwards. Also on this date it is announced that the scheduled New Year’s Revolution pay-per-view has been cancelled, with little reason given for doing so.

December 22, 2006 – Over on Smackdown, Batista would defeat Sylvan Grenier, who dressed as Santa Claus for the night, while King Booker and Finlay looked to bounce back in a tag team effort against The Brother’s of Destruction. Chris Benoit would again defend the United States Championship against Chavo Guerrero, while Joey Mercury would appear with a mangled face suffered at the hands of Matt Hardy during the ladder match at Armageddon. Due to the injury suffered by Mercury, plus the “second degree burns” MVP was subjected to at Armageddon, JBL launches a campaign from the announce desk to have Teddy Long removed from his position as Smackdown general manager. In the main event, Kane and The Undertaker made quick work of Booker and Finlay.

December 25, 26 and 29, 2006 – With Raw presenting Christmas in Baghdad, ECW reminiscing over its 6-month run and Smackdown having a “Best of 2006” show, the WWE ended 2006 in a sombre mood, with the demise of ECW only adding to the company-wide dejected feeling. Surely things could only get better in 2007?​


~Rosters~
As of June 2nd, 2007

~Monday Night Raw~

~Champions~

WWE Champion; Rob Van Dam
ECW Champion; Rob Van Dam *Title Retired*
Intercontinental Champion; Kenny Dykstra
World Tag Team Champions; The World's Greatest Tag Team
Women’s Champion; Beth Phoenix



~Raw Roster~

Bobby Lashley
Carlito
Charlie Haas
Chris Masters
Claudio Cesaro
CM Punk
Cody Rhodes
Ezekiel Jackson
Hardcore Holly
Harry Smith
Jeff Hardy
JTG
John Cena
John Morrison
Kenny Dykstra
Lance Cade
Mike Knox
Nick Dinsmore
Randy Orton
Ric Flair
Rob Conway
Rob Van Dam
Robbie McAllister
Rory McAllister
Shad Gaspard
Shawn Michaels
Shelton Benjamin
Super Crazy
Sylvester Terkay
Trevor Murdoch
Triple H - Currently Inactive
Tyson Kidd
Val Venis


~Divas~

Beth Phoenix
Candice Michelle
Kelly Kelly - Currently Managing The Straight Edge Saints
Maria
Natalya Neidhart - Currently Managing The Hart Legacy
Melina – Currently Managing Chris Masters
Mickie James
Torrie Wilson – Currently Managing Kenny Dykstra
Victoria


~Tag Teams and Stables~

Cryme Tyme; JTG and Shad Gaspard
The Hart Legacy; Harry Smith and Tyson Kidd
The Highlanders; Robbie and Rory McAllister
The ******* Wrecking Crew; Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch
The Straight Edge Saints; CM Punk and Nick Dinsmore
The World’s Greatest Tag Team; Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin


~Personnel~

Brooke Adams; Vince McMahon’s Executive Assistant
Jerry Lawler; Colour Commentator
Jim Ross; Play-by-play Announcer
Joey Styles; Play-by-play Announcer
Lillian Garcia; Ring Announcer
Linda McMahon; WWE Chief Executive Officer
Matt Striker; Colour Commentator
Mick Foley; Makes Occasional Appearances
Shane McMahon; Makes Occasional Appearances
Steve Austin; Makes Occasional Appearances
Todd Grisham; Backstage Interviewer
Vince McMahon; Chairman Of The Board



~Friday Night Smackdown~

~Champions~

World Heavyweight Champion; Edge
United States Champion; Matt Hardy
WWE Tag Team Champions; The New Breed
Cruiserweight Champion; Bryan Danielson



~Roster~

Batista
Big Vito
Brian Kendrick
Bryan Danielson
Chavo Guerrero
Chris Benoit
Daivari
Dave Taylor
Doug Williams
Edge
Elijah Burke
Finlay
Funaki
Gregory Helms
Jamie Noble
Joey Mercury
Jimmy Wang Yang
Kane
King Booker
Mark Henry
Matt Hardy
Montel Vontavious Porter
Monty Brown
Mr. Kennedy
Nunzio
Paul Burchill
Paul London
Rey Mysterio
Rene Dupree
Sabu
Santino Marella
Scotty-2-Hotty
Shannon Moore
Sylvain Grenier
Test
The Miz
The Sandman
The Undertaker - Currently Inactive
Tommy Dreamer
Tony Mamaluke
Umaga - Currently Suspended
William Regal


~Divas~

Ashley Massaro – Currently Managing The Hooligans
Jillian Hall
Layla - Currently Managing The New Breed
Maryse - Currently Managing La Resistance
Michelle McCool – Currently Managing The Miz
Kristal Marshall
Queen Sharmell – Currently Managing King Booker
Trinity - Currently Managing The Full Blooded Italians
Vickie Guerrero – Currently Managing Chavo Guerrero


~Tag Teams and Stables~

La Resistance; Rene Dupree and Sylvain Grenier
The Asian ********; Funaki and Jimmy Wang Yang
The Bluebloods; Dave Taylor, Paul Burchill and William Regal
The Coachman Coalition; King Booker, Mark Henry and Montel Vontavious Porter
The Extremists; Sabu, The Sandman and Tommy Dreamer
The Full Blooded Italians; Big Vito, Nunzio, Santino Marella and Tony Mamaluke
The Hooligans; Brian Kendrick and Paul London
The New Breed; Elijah Burke and Monty Brown


~Personnel~

Armando Alejandro Estrada; Currently Managing Umaga
Little Bastard; Currently Associated With Finlay
Jonathan Coachman; Currently Managing The Coachman Coalition
John Bradshaw Layfield; Colour Commentator
Josh Matthews; Backstage Interviewer
Justin Roberts; Ring Announcer
Michael Cole; Play-by-play Commentator
Paul Bearer; Currently Managing The Undertaker
Tazz; Colour Commentator
Theodore Long; General Manager
Tony Chimel; Ring Announcer



~Pay-Per-View and Special Show Archive~

Royal Rumble - January 28th 2007 - AT&T Centre; San Antonio, Texas
Monday Night Raw : Night Of Champions - February 5th 2007 - Tyson Events Center; Sioux City, Iowa
No Way Out - February 18th 2007 - American Airlines Arena; Miami, Florida
Saturday Night's Main Event - March 3rd 2007 - Madison Square Garden; New York, New York
Wrestlemania XXIII - April 1st 2007 - Ford Field; Detroit, Michigan
Backlash - April 29th 2007 - FedEx Forum; Memphis, Tennessee
Judgment Day - May 20th 2007 - iPayOne Center; San Diego, California
Saturday Night's Main Event : 2007 King of the Ring - June 2nd 2007 - TD Banknorth Garden; Boston, Massachusetts
 
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#261 ·
~Friday Night SmackDown~
April 27th, 2007
Earls Court Exhibition Centre
London, England



"And maybe tonight... is gonna be another lesson... for him."




There's no recap or opening of any sort for that matter, as we cut straight into the arena to see that Matt Hardy and Finlay are already brawling on the stage! Trading stiff right hands, the pair battle around the British themed set, with Matt grabbing Finlay... and launching him into a nearby black taxi! Finlay sprawls all across the hood of the taxi and smacks off the windscreen with a thud, as it appears tonight's Belfast Brawl has kicked off before the show even started...

Michael Cole: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night SmackDown from London, England, and folks, all hell has broken loose here! Matt Hardy and Finlay are scheduled to go at it in a Belfast Brawl for the United States Championship, and it looks like they don't even wanna wait for the show to get started!

Tazz: This is nuts, Michael! Hardy and Finlay, they were gonna kick off the show, but from what we've heard, Finlay didn't wanna wait that long. He jumped Hardy backstage, and now the fight's spilled out into the arena!

John Bradshaw Layfield: Haha, it's mayhem, it's chaos, and I love it! Things always get turned up a notch when SmackDown heads overseas, and it seems bein' back home in the United Kingdom has got Finaly all fired up for this one!

Mchael Cole: And guys, I don't even think this match is officially underway yet. What a wild start to the show we're seein'...

Indeed it is wild, as Matt stays on the attack, as when Finlay rolls off of the taxi, Hardy stays on him, grabbing Finlay and tossing him into the crowd barrier. Big right hands land to Finlay's head, until Finlay manages to kick out at Matt, drilling a boot to the midsection that allows him to create some separation as Finlay starts to stumble towards the ring. Finlay looks dazed as he stumbles down the aisle, but here comes Hardy from behind... knocking Finlay over with a stiff forearm to the back of the head! Finlay smacks off the concrete, Hardy laying in with boots, until he rolls Finlay into the ring and the bell finally sounds to officially get the match started...

Match 1: United States Championship Belfast Brawl
United States Champion Matt Hardy vs. Finlay

But despite Finlay being back in the ring, Hardy stays outside, rummaging under the ring, looking for weapons early on, with Hardy dragging out a trash can, then a steel chair, both of which he slides into the ring. Hardy follows in, and he picks up the trash can… and smashes it off Finlay’s skull! Hardy looks aggressive early on, as he again drills Finlay with boots as he lies on the canvas, before Matt picks up the steel chair… and smashes it off Finlay’s spine! Finlay grimaces in pain, but Matt lines him up… second steel chair shot to the body knocks Finlay through the ropes to the floor! The fight was barely in the ring before it’s back outside, with Matt stepping through the ropes and waiting on the apron for Finlay to get back up… diving elbow drop to the back of Finlay’s head! Hardy knocks Finlay down again, but after flashing the “V1” sign to the crowd, when he goes back to Finlay, Finlay reaches up and grabs Matt by the waist of his jeans… and yanks Hardy face first off the barricade! A nasty impact as Hardy smacks off the barricade, and as he sits against the barricade to try recover, Finlay gets back on his feet… and drives his knee into Hardy’s face, sandwiching his head between barricade and bone! Finlay now looks to take control as he drags Matt up, smashes him face first off the apron, then drives him spine first into the barricade, before landing a pair of forearms to the back then an uppercut. Finlay then looks for an Irish whip into the steel steps… but Hardy reverses… and sends Finlay crashing into the steel steps! Finlay takes the impact square on his shoulder and crumples to the floor, Matt quickly rolling him back into the ring for a near fall.

Finlay crawls to the corner to create some separation, but Matt stays on him, landing more boots to the midsection, before he fires Finlay across the ring and follows in… right into a back elbow! Matt stumbles back… and Finlay rocks him with a clothesline! Finlay now goes on the attack, laying in with boots to the chest, before he comes off the ropes… seated senton! Finlay stays on top for the cover… 1… 2… Hardy kicks out. Finlay looks to stay in control as he drags Hardy up, but after landing one uppercut, Hardy blocks a second… then strikes back with a trio of right hands of his own. Finlay swings again, but Hardy ducks underneath… then drops Finlay with an inverted DDT! Finlay staggers back to his feet against the ropes… and then a clothesline knocks him over and sends him sprawling to the floor! The match spills outside once more, with Finlay crawling away, but Hardy stays on him, smacking Finlay face first off the barricade. Finlay stumbles away, trying to put some distance between the two, but Matt stays on him, smacking him with more forearm shots that send the pair up the aisle. Matt reaches out to slow Finlay down, but Finlay drills him with a knee to the midsection, then drives him spine first into the barricade! The fans are up close and personal as the fight continues in the aisle, with Finlay walking Matt towards the British themed stage. When they get there, Finlay lines Matt up… and smashes him face first off a black taxi cab! Finlay lays in with more uppercuts, only for Matt to drill him with a boot to the midsection… then he sends Finlay for the ride… right into a red phonebox! Finlay smacks off the phonebox and hits the concrete, and as we head to commercial, it looks like Hardy is in control.

*Commercial*​

And when we return, the image is that of the door leading into the parking lot, the camera outside the arena… and for good reason as Finlay comes crashing through it! Cole fills us in that during the break the match spilled backstage, and now it’s heading outside the arena! Hardy quickly follows, smacking the doubled over Finlay with more clubbing blows to the back of the head, with Finlay desperately trying to stumble away. Hardy stays on him, landing a pair of boots to the midsection, only for Finlay to fire back with an elbow to the face. Forearms land, then Finlay grabs the wrist and goes for an Irish whip... sending Matt crashing into a nearby transportation truck! Hardy drops to his knees in pain, allowing Finlay to search around for weapons, and he finds one in a nearby wrench, which he scoops up... then swings at Hardy... but Matt ducks... and Finlay smacks the truck! Quickly Hardy spins Finlay around... then drops him with a SIDE EFFECT ONTO THE CONCRETE! Both men feel the effects of the sickening thud, taking an age before Matt makes it back to his feet, while Finlay crawls on all fours to try find safety. Hardy stays on him, laying in with boots, but when he drags Finlay back up, Finlay pokes a finger to the eye, then grabs a nearby trash can... and smacks it off Hardy’s skull! Hardy drops to a knee, but Finlay has him back on his feet, both men now heading back towards the door back into the arena. Finlay smacks Hardy face first off the door, then opens it, shoving the champion inside, where he lays in with more forearms to the spine. The pair stumble along a backstage corridor, a few randoms darting to safety, before Finlay winds up... and LAUNCHES MATT ACROSS A CATERING TABLE! Plates and bottles fly as Hardy has a painful landing, the champion writhing in pain, clutching his shoulder in agony.

Finlay sees an opening now, and he takes advantage by aiming boots to the shoulder, then he takes Hardy up, pulls his hand behind his back... then shoves him SHOULDER FIRST INTO A NEARBY PEPSI MACHINE! A violent collision as Hardy’s shoulder and head smack off the machine, and after Finlay shakes off the cobwebs, he goes right back to work by aiming more boots to the shoulder. Once more Finlay drags Hardy up, the two grappling and jockeying for position as they walk along the corridor, then turn towards a curtain... and suddenly we’re back inside the arena, the fans booing loudly as Finlay is in control, and he emphasises this by shoving Matt up against the stanchion of the entrance way, taking his left arm, wrapping it around the stanchion, then placing his foot on the stanchion for extra leverage, before he pulls back on the arm, trying to rip it right out the socket, causing Hardy to groan in agony, before Finlay finally relents. Matt frees himself and stumbles away, trying to shake some life back into the arm, but Finlay stays on the attack as the two head back down the aisle to the ring. At the foot of the aisle, Finlay grabs Matt by the wrist... then goes for an Irish whip... shoulder first into the steel steps! This time it’s Matt who tastes the steel, dislodging the top steps from the bottom half, with Finlay wasting no time in sliding them into the ring. The challenger then goes rummaging under the ring, bringing out a table that he also slides in, before a pair of steel chairs are tossed over the top rope. Hardy is rolled under the bottom rope, Finlay firmly in control, and after more stomps to the shoulder, Finlay yanks Matt’s arm... and places it in-between a steel chair! The challenger then heads for the corner, propping himself up onto the second rope, lining Matt up, the crowd gasping as they know what’s coming... as Finlay launches himself... DOUBLE FOOTSTOMP ON THE ARM TRAPPED IN THE CHAIR... NO! Hardy rolls to safety, letting Finlay hit the mat, the veteran tweaking his knee on impact. After shaking some life back into his leg, Finlay turns... and HARDY LEVELS HIM WITH A SICK STEEL CHAIR SHOT TO THE SKULL!

Finlay is lit up by the chair shot, but Hardy can’t take advantage as he stumbles backwards and falls, tending to his injured arm before he finally crawls over for the cover... 1... 2... Finlay barely rolls a shoulder! After shaking off the disappointment, Hardy struggles back to his feet, his left arm hanging, but as Finlay makes it back to his knees, Hardy socks him with a few right hands. Hardy heads for the corner, where he reaches down... and picks up Finlay’s shillelagh! The crowd pop as Hardy holds the trusty weapon in his hand... and he SMACKS THE SHILLELAGH INTO FINLAY’S RIBS! And again... and a third time finally knocks Finlay down... but Hardy is unrelenting as he repeatedly strikes with the shillelagh to the body! Finlay tries to cover up, but Hardy just keeps on swinging, until he finally comes to a stop after close to fifteen body shots and launches the shillelagh up the aisle, far from the ring. The London crowd is on it’s feet, as with Finlay seriously weakened, Matt now stands behind him, waiting for him to rise, ready to strike with the TWIST OF FATE... but wait... from under the ring... it’s The Little Bastard! That damn leprechaun makes his first appearance since WrestleMania XXIII... and just as Hardy makes his move... the little guy dives and grabs him by the ankle! Hardy tries to move but is rooted to the spot... and that allows Finlay to level him with a bodyblock! After taking a few seconds to grab his ribs, Finlay scans the ring, then finally spots his shillelagh up the aisle, prompting him to dispatch The Little Bastard to retrieve it. As the little guy goes scurrying off, Finlay takes the table he brought into the ring and props it up against the turnbuckle. As Finlay waits, he lays in with more stomps to the shoulder, and then he’s handed the shillelagh. With vengeance in his eyes, Finlay looks down… then SMACKS THE SHILLELAGH OFF OF HARDY’S SHOULDER! And again… and again… and just like Matt earlier, Finlay strikes time after time, until he finally eases up and slams the weapon off the mat, the camera close enough to hear Matt cry out in agony.

Finlay paces the ring for a few seconds, contemplating going for a pinfall, but then he thinks again, and decides to drag Hardy to his feet. Lining Matt up, Finlay takes aim and then looks to TOSS HIM SHOULDER FIRST THROUGH THE TABLE IN THE CORNER! The champion is viciously driven through the table, wood splinters flying everywhere, and it looks like Hardy has passed out from the pain as he lies motionless on the canvas. Finlay tears through the wreckage, then he drags Hardy from the corner, and drives a forearm into the face as he gets the 1… 2… NO! Hardy kicks out! Somehow Hardy stays alive! The fans cheer warmly as Hardy shows great spirit to hang in there, but Finlay flashes a furious scowl at the referee, before he once again starts to rearrange furniture. Setting up the steel steps smack in the centre of the ring, Finlay clearly has something sinister in mind. He yanks the champion to a vertical base… then takes Matt up onto his shoulders… and the crowd gasp as they know what’s coming… CELTIC CROSS ONTO THE STEEL STEPS… NO! Valiantly, Hardy fights it, striking with elbow after desperate elbow to the side of the head, managing to drop down to his feet. Hardy shoves Finlay to the corner… then follows in… corner clothesline… and Matt hangs on… running bulldog! Hardy shows signs of making a comeback, but he decides to head outside, and once again he looks under the ring, bringing out a trash can, the lid inside of it. Hardy tips out the can, grabs the lid, then forces himself onto the second rope, where he waits for Finlay to get back to his knees… TRASH CAN LID SHOT TO THE BACK OF THE HEAD! Matt stands tall, calling for Finlay to rise… so he can unload with another three shots to the skull… before a fourth knocks Finlay down! Hardy is buzzing, the crowd is electric, and now Matt waits, ready to strike… but once again The Little Bastard gets involved as he kicks Matt from behind. Although it has little effect, it still causes Hardy to turn and stare the little guy down. The leprechaun panics and starts to run, but Hardy quickly scoops up the trash can… and places it over the top of him… trapping The Little Bastard inside! The leprechaun is taken out of the equation, but here comes Finlay from behind… SHILLELAGH SHOT… NO! Hardy ducks underneath, then he when Finlay turns… kick… TWIST OF FATE… ON THE STEEL STEPS!! Finlay smacks off the steel, and Hardy quickly rolls him over and hooks the leg… 1… 2… 3!

Winner: And STILL United States Champion, Matt Hardy @ 16.41

After a gruelling, brutal match, Matt Hardy finally puts Finlay away, retaining the United States Championship and bringing an end to the long running feud between the two. After the three count, Hardy rolls over onto his back, laying on the mat, taking deep breaths as the toll the match took on his body is plain for all to see. Hardy manages to make it onto his knees, then stumbles up to his feet, his arm raised in victory as he plants a kiss on the title belt. The crowd give a very respectful pop as Hardy exits the ring, a little bit shaky on his feet, but very much the winner as he slowly makes the long walk backstage, leaving behind the down and out Finlay and The Little Bastard, still trapped inside the trash can, in the ring, raising the title to yet another cheer from the London faithful before we head to a commercial.

*Commercial*

We return from the break to see the smiling Josh Matthews standing by, microphone in hand, ready to conduct an interview...


Josh Matthews: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Friday Night SmackDown from London, England. And please welcome my guest at this time, he is the World Heavyweight Champion... 'The Animal'... Batista!

The crowd gives a great welcome as Batista steps into the frame, the World Heavyweight Championship slung over his shoulder, the champ dressed in his ring gear and t-shirt, clearly ready for action...

Josh Matthews: Batista, later tonight you are scheduled to defend your World Heavyweight Championship against Mr. Kennedy, a match made due to Kennedy's win over Edge last week. What are your thoughts on what happened last week, and of course, on tonight's title match?

Batista rubs his jaw, pondering his response, before a wry smile crosses his face...

Batista: Well, what can I say about last week? I mean, I was there on commentary, I saw the whole thing. I gotta admit, it was a helluva match. Credit where credit's due, I might think Kennedy's a total jackass, but he proved he could dig down deep and pull out a victory last week. But uh... I'm sure Edge is somewhere whinin' and complainin' about the fact I got involved in the match. And y'know somethin', Josh? I really don't care.

Pop from inside the arena, with Batista speaking with a very serious tone...

Batista: For too long now, Edge has been crackin' those steel chairs off people's skulls. I mean, he did it to me both before and after our match at WrestleMania, and then he did it to Chris Benoit only two weeks ago. We still don't know how long Chris is gonna be out for, if he's gonna make it back for the title match he's due at Judgment Day... or if he's gonna make it back at all. I'm getting' pretty pissed off with it happenin' all the time, and I wasn't gonna let it happen again last week, especially when I knew I had a chance to stop it.

Batista pauses, wanting to add emphasis to his next point...

Batista; And let's get one thing clear. I didn't do it 'cause I like Kennedy, or 'cause I think he needed or deserved any help. I did it, 'cause it was about time somebody stood up and did somethin' about it. So if Edge has any complaints about what I did last week, then he knows where to find me. But if he does come lookin' for me, he better bring another steel chair with 'im... 'cause he's gonna need it.

Another pop from the fans...

Batista: As for tonight... uh, well, mixed emotions if I'm bein' honest with ya' Josh. I know Kennedy won the match last week, he earned another shot at me and the World Heavyweight Championship... but I can't help but feel that this oughta be Chris Benoit's title shot tonight. Chris earned the chance to face me fair and square, only for Edge to take it away from 'im. Tonight... shoulda been Batista and Benoit... for this right here.

Bringing his title off his shoulders and holding it infront of the camera, Batista stares at the belt for a few seconds before he continues...

Batista: I’m pretty sure that’s what these fans in London would wanna see, and if it was up to me, that’s what they woulda got. But it is what it is, and tonight’s gonna be Kennedy. I already beat ‘im at No Way Out, and I don’t see tonight bein’ any different. I’ll hand it to Kennedy, I watched his match last week up close, and he looked very impressive. Perhaps even more impressive than he did before No Way Out, and that means tonight’s gonna be an even tougher test.

A quick shrug of the shoulders and then Batista carries on...

Batista: Who knows, maybe once you cut away all the crap, the guy actually learned somethin’ from bein’ in the same ring as a legend like Ric Flair back at WrestleMania.

A loud “”WOOOOO!” from inside the arena, to which Batista shows his appreciation as he nods his head...

Batista: But while you can learn a lot from goin’ against guys like Ric, there’s one thing that can’t be taught. And that’s desire. The desire to be a champion, the desire to do whatever it takes to win this title, and then hang on to it, no matter the cost. And when SmackDown was goin’ off the air last week, and I looked up at Kennedy... I don’t see that same level of desire in his eyes.

Another pop as Batista speaks with a passion and fire in his voice...

Batista: And until Kennedy learns that chewin’ gum and bein’ all cocky on the mic means nothin’ when it comes to bein’ a champion... he’s never gonna get his hands on my title.

And now Batista turns to look into the camera, an intense look on his face as he says...

Batista: And maybe tonight... is gonna be another lesson... for him.

And a final pop from the fans as Batista wraps things up, a quick nod in Matthews' direction before 'The Animal' turns and makes his exit, with Matthews watching on in awe as we cut elsewhere.

And it's to the trainer's room we go to see Matt Hardy sat on the table, clutching his ribs, rubbing his neck, clearly exhausted and in pain after his earlier efforts, but the buzz of victory allows him to have a smile on his face. The trainer checks him over, performing a few basic turns and twists on Matt's head and neck, before he reaches over and grabs an ice pack, handing it to Hardy...


Trainer: Here, put that on your shoulder, it oughta help.

Matt Hardy: Thanks, doc.

Hardy takes the ice pack and places it on his shoulder, leaning back against the wall to hold it in place and apply pressure. With one hand still wrapped around his ribs, Hardy uses his free hand to pick up the United States Championship that sits nearby, Matt looking warmly towards the gold, the smile on his face growing bigger. Suddenly, the door to the trainer's room is heard being rather forcibly pushed open, with Hardy looking off camera to see who has entered the room... and the camera reveals it's The Miz and Michelle McCool. Instant heat from inside the arena, with Hardy trying to sit up, looking to be on his guard...

The Miz: Matt, Matt, relax. Take it easy champ. I'm not gonna try anythin'. I'm not even gonna touch ya'. All I came to do was congratulate you on your victory.

Naturally Hardy looks at Miz uneasily, clearly not believing Miz and his intentions...

The Miz: And what a victory it was. I mean, Belfast Brawl, you and Finlay, man what a battle it was! Credit to ya' for pullin' through there, Matty boy.

Hardy sits forward from the wall, gritting his teeth as he speaks...

Matt Hardy: Cut the crap, Miz. I'm not buyin' it. I'm not in the mood for this right now.

A smirk crosses Miz's face, clearly enjoying seeing the champion suffer...

The Miz: Alright, alright, I'm not gonna take up too much of your time. Here, lemme paint ya' a lil' picture.

Miz sits himself down next to Matt, draping an arm over Hardy's shoulder, at which Hardy winces then quickly shakes off...

The Miz: Y'see, you beat Finlay tonight, and that of course means you're still United States Champion. And that's really good news for me, Matt.

Confused, Hardy raises his eyebrows...

Matt Hardy: Really?

The Miz: Really. 'Cause that means you Matt... you have what I want. You've got the United States Championship. And ever since I won the Pre Show Battle Royal at WrestleMania, it's your title that I want.

Miz takes a look down at the gold, reaching out, but then pulling his hand back before he touches it...

The Miz: And at Judgment Day... I'm comin' to get it. So don't get too comfortable with that belt, champ. 'Cause at Judgment Day, there's gonna be a new US Champion... and his name is The Miz... and he's-

Matt Hardy: Shut up, you idiot!

Miz's eyes bulge, even more than usual for the interruption, standing up and adjusting his jacket collar, clearly offended...

Matt Hardy: You wanna face me at Judgment Day? Fine. Let's do it. But think just 'cause I'm hurtin' now that I won't be ready. If I can survive Finlay and a Belfast Brawl... then I can sure as hell survive you.

And now Hardy forces himself up off the trainer's table to stand toe to toe with Miz...

Matt Hardy: And if you try anythin', if you try jump me before the match, I promise ya'... you're gonna be the one that's gonna be ready in time.

Pop from inside the arena...

Matt Hardy: You understand that?

Miz laughs and nods his head, looking Matt dead in the eye...

The Miz: Yeah sure. I hear ya'. I'll see ya' at Judgment Day.

Miz smirks as he starts to back away, putting a bit of distance between the two...

The Miz: You just take it easy, make sure you rest up... champ.

But Miz is still close enough to pat Hardy on the shoulder, causing Matt to wince and grimace in pain, a huge smirk on the face of Miz and McCool as they watch Hardy grab his arm, before the two decide to turn and leave. Hardy watches them go, then the trainer steps back in, encouraging and helping Matt sit back down on the table, reapplying the ice back to Hardy's shoulder as the champion has a slight of trepidation in his eyes as we head back into the arena.

To hear.

”LISTEN...”

*IT'S TIME...*

A pretty strong level of heat as Gregory Helms slowly saunters out from the back, his trusty clipboard and pen in his hands, suggesting Helms is once again canvassing for signatures for his petition. Helms offers the pen to a few of the younger ringside fans, and being kids they of course reject the chance to sign the petition, causing Helms to turn to the females in the crowd, who give him the same response...


Michael Cole: It's time for some cruiserweight action, and here comes the champion, Gregory Helms. Helms of course has been petitioning to have the title retired in his name as a tribute to his legacy as the longest reigning Cruiserweight Champion in history, but I don't think he's havin' much luck right now in getting' names.

Tazz: Not a whole lotta love in London for Helms. And I think it’s ‘cause nobody’s buyin’ this whole retire it as a tribute thing. These people ain’t dumb, they know it’s ‘cause Helms is runnin’ scared of Bryan Danielson.

John Bradshaw Layfield: He ain’t runnin’ scared! Why would he run scared of a guy he’s already beaten twice! If ya’ ask me, Helms is doin’ the cruiserweight division a favour. Nobody’s gonna be able to follow his reign, so ya’ might as well retire the title to save the rest of ‘em havin’ to live knowin’ they’ll never be as good as Gregory Helms.

*I’LL DO ANYTHING...*



Match 2: Non-Title Match
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms vs. Shannon Moore

As the bell rings, Moore is ready to go and takes a step forward, only for Helms to tell him to stop and back off. Moore looks confused, as do the crowd, but it soon becomes apparent what's going on, as Helms heads to the corner, picks up his petition... and thrusts it under Moore's nose! He wants him to sign it! The crowd laugh as Moore stares at Helms in disbelief, but Helms is adamant, even taking off the lid of his pen and handing it to Moore. Shannon takes a look at the petition... and then at the crowd... before he tosses the petition and the pen over the top rope... then smacks Helms with a big right hand! We're finally under way, with Moore tagging Helms, backing him to the ropes, where Moore sends Helms for the ride... big back body drop! Helms stumbles back up, right into an armdrag that sends him towards the ropes, and when he's back up, Moore charges... clothesline over the top rope! Helms hits the floor with a thud, but when he picks himself back up, he again tells Moore to back off, this time so he can pick his petition up off the floor and replace it under the turnbuckle. Helms now cautiously heads back into the ring, the two tying up, and Helms gains control as he drills a knee into the midsection, then a pair of forearms to the back of the head. A scoop slam puts Moore down, followed by a snap legdrop, gaining Helms a near fall. Helms drags Moore back up and goes for a right hand, but Moore blocks it, scoring with two rights of his own, before he tries to send Helms to the corner... but Helms reverses and follows in... Helms tries to use the ropes to elevate himself over Helms... but Helms catches Moore on his shoulder... and drops him face first on the top turnbuckle! Moore stumbles towards the centre of the ring, but Helms is already coming off the ropes... for a big time clothesline! Moore is down, and Helms hooks the leg... 1... 2... Moore rolls a shoulder.

Helms now enjoys a period of control as he connects with a swinging neckbreaker and then a double underhook backbreaker, before he gets a long two count from a northern lights suplex. From the kickout, Helms quickly applies a grounded chinlock, trying to wear Moore down with a hold that at times slips into a choke, causing the ref to admonish Helms. Eventually Moore starts to mount a comeback, as he forces both men back to their feet, then drills a pair of elbows to the midsection to break the hold, but Helms hangs on... until Moore takes him up and down with a side suplex! Both men now struggle back up, Helms throwing a right... Moore blocks it... then scores a big right of his own! Another two rights from Moore connect, allowing Moore to go for the Irish whip... but Helms reverses... Moore comes off the ropes with a spinning heel kick! Looking to build momentum, Moore is back up first, meeting Helms head on with an inverted atomic drop, then he goes for a boot to the midsection... Helms catches the foot... enzuigiri! Moore's boot smacks off Helms' skull, and here's the cover... 1... 2... Helms kicks out! Disappointed, Moore presses on, dragging Helms back up, tagging him with right hands against the ropes, and Moore again goes for the Irish whip... but when he lowers his head, Helms snaps him back up with a kick to the chest... then levels Moore with a dropkick! Shannon is down, but able to make it back onto his knees, but here comes Helms off the ropes... SHINNING WIZARD!! Helms absolutely hammers Moore, then rolls over his lifeless body to get the 1... 2... 3.

Winner: Gregory Helms @ 04.19

A slight scare, but Helms eventually puts Moore away with ease, picking another strong victory to enhance his claims of cruiserweight supremacy. Helms aggressively pushes himself off of Moore and back onto his feet, where he snatches his title from the referee's grasp, then demands his hand be raised in victory. Helms then heads to the corner and picks up his petition, and it looks like he might be about to try and canvas for more signatures around the ringside area... until...

*RAGE...*

A very loud and positive pop as Bryan Danielson steps out, not dressed to compete, and rather strangely for him, with a microphone in his hands. In the ring, Helms is furious, feeling slighted that Danielson would interrupt his celebration, but Bryan doesn't look as if he really gives a damn as he waits for his music to die down...


Bryan Danielson: Gregory, lemme just first of all say, I'm not much of a talker. So you'll forgive me when I say that the apology you were lookin' for last week... that's not gonna happen.

Helms rolls his eyes and shakes his head, shouting “You're a fraud!” up the aisle at Bryan...

Bryan Danielson: But, y'know, you came out here after my match last week, and you told the fans a few home truths about me. I mean yes, it is true folks, I was previously in the WWE under a developmental contract, only to be released before I made it to the main roster.

Helms nods proudly. clearly pleased with what last week's detective work brought him...

Bryan Danielson: But despite what Greg here might think... I'm not ashamed of that.

Pop from the fans, with Helms shouting “You should be!”...

Bryan Danielson: I mean, it was always my dream to make here in the WWE. And sure, it was a huge disappointment to be released so early in my career. But I didn't view it as a setback, I used it as a positive, and it helped me get to where I am today.

Another pop...

Bryan Danielson: The fact of the matter is, if I hadn't been released from my developmental contract by the WWE five years ago... I wouldn't be the wrestler I am today.

Again Helms shakes his head, clearly not interested in listening, but Bryan presses on with a warm look of satisfaction on his face...

Bryan Danielson: I wouldn't have gotten to go train in Japan, I wouldn't have gotten the chance to learn the lucha libre style of Mexico, I wouldn't have got the chance to wrestle all over Europe and the rest of the world. Who knows, if I'd stuck around and been promoted to the main roster before I was ready... I mighta been released a year or so later, and my big chance would have already passed me by.

Bryan now begins to pace back and forth, a knowing glint in his eye...

Bryan Danielson: And that's why I don't look at it as somethin' to be ashamed or embarassed about. It was a challenge to test myself around the world and see if one day I could make it back... and here I am.

Pop...

Bryan Danielson: But you Greg... you have done a few things in your career you should be embarrassed about. I mean, who could forget wrestling's number one boy band, 3 Count?

Danielson motions for us all to turn our attentions towards the screens...

*Video Package*

We cut to a unknown WCW event from back in the year 2000, where we see Shannon Moore, Evan Karagias and yes, Shane Helms stood in the ring, dressed like a late ‘90s boy band, the trio standing in the ring, each on their own green circle. Helms has a mic in his hand, and he’s heard saying…

Shane Helms: ‘Cause sooner or later, everybody goes down… for the 3 Count! Now hit – our – music!

And indeed, the music starts as we hear 3 Count’s signature tune “Can’t Get You Outta My Heart” blare out from the speakers system. The trio do their best to lip sync along with the track, as well as providing some rather unusual dance steps. We see young teenage girls in the crowd franticly running their hands through their hair and screaming loudly, but we also see some women in their late twenties shake their head and stick their fingers in their ears, while the males in the audience simply boo and give the band the thumbs down.

Helms, Moore and Karagias go through their whole routine, making it to the end of the song, and when the music dies, we hear exactly what the majority of the audience thought of the performance, loudly booing once again. Helms though is undeterred as he again addresses the crowd…

Shane Helms: Now I know y’all enjoyed that, so what we’re gonna do, is we’re gonna kick it… one – more – time! Hit it!

Uh huh, that’s right, the music starts up again as we see Helms, Moore and Karagias start the whole thing over again. But, seeing as it’s truly awful and we’ve seen more than enough, this video thankfully comes to an end.


*End Video Package*

Back in the arena, and Helms is fuming, his nostrils flaring wildly as the crowd have a good laugh at his expense. Helms screams “Shut up!” at the crowd, which only serves to increase the laughter, with a slight smirk on the face of Danielson...

Bryan Danielson: Now, see, that is somethin' to be embarrassed about. While you were singin' songs and dancin', I was trainin' hard and tryin' to perfect my craft. But... I gotta admit, even though you looked stupid doin' it, all the boy band stuff... that got you a spot on the WCW roster. That gave you an opportunity to wrestle each and every week on national television, somethin' that back then, I could only dream about. I'm sure you weighed up the pros and cons and decided that if bein' part of some boy band meant you got your big break in the business... then it was a sacrifice worth making.

A mixed response from the audience, but Danielson quickly calls for quiet, the grin on his face suggesting he has something else in store...

Bryan Danielson: But uh... this next clip... I uh... I dunno man. I mean, bein' in a boy band is one thing... but dressin' up like a superhero? That's a whole different level of embarrassment if ya' ask me. I'm know we all remember the days when you used to say... stand back... there's a hurricane comin' through!

And once again, Danielson turns towards the tron...

*Video Package*

”STAND BACK… THERE’S A HURRICANE COMIN’ THROUGH!”

The video starts with the opening of “Eye of the Hurricane”, the former entrance music of The Hurricane, and sure enough, we see the man himself, Gregory Helms’ alter ego The Hurricane flying across the screen in some very amateur looking CGI video. As the music continues to play, we now see a highlights package of some of the more memorable moments of The Hurricane characters lifespan, starting with shots of Hurricane’s match with The Rock, as Rocky lays the smackdown on Helms…

“YOU LOOK LIKE THE DAMN HAMBURGLAR!”

And now we see Hurricane driving the Hurri-Cycle, with his former sidekick, Mighty Molly in the sidecar, but now we cut to WrestleMania X-8, where Helms exploits the 24/7 Rule to become Hardcore Champion, only for Molly to crack a frying pan off Helms’ head, complete with comical sound effect, allowing Molly to become the new champion.

We now cut to footage from the November 24th, 2003 Raw Roulette episode of Monday Night Raw, where we see Hurricane in the parking lot chasing after a midget named Fernando. The chase now spills into the arena, and each time Helms tries to dive and grab the midget, he of course misses, making the whole thing look like something from a bad Benny Hill episode.

And finally we cut to a match between The Hurricane and The Big Show, where during the action, Helms tries to summon up some superhuman power to enable him to chokeslam Big Show… but of course, it fails miserably, and Show clobbers Helms with a massive right hand, and then shows Helms how it’s done as he delivers a big time chokeslam of his own, us ending the video as we hear Hurricane say…

“HOLY HYPOCRITE!”


*End Video Package*

This time Helms is absolutely livid, furiously kicking the bottom rope, ranting and raving at the fans who again respond with loud bellows of laughter. At the entrance way, Danielson is doubled over, close to tears, with Helms looking like he's about to lose control...

Bryan Danielson: Wow. Greg... I don't know what to say. To me, dressin' up like a superhero and recruitin' a sidekick... that's not worth it. So Greg, I'd be careful about bringin' up stuff from people's past that they might not be proud of... 'cause you've got plenty o' stuff in your past to be embarrassed about. But despite what happened in either of our pasts Greg, right now, you're standin' in that ring as the longest reigning Cruiserweight Champion in WWE history. And that's exactly the spot I wanna be in.

Helms angrily shakes his head, motioning that Bryan will never be in his spot, but with a much more serious demeanour, Danielson presses on...

Bryan Danielson: I dunno where, I dunno when... but I'm comin' after you and that title. Sooner or later, I'm gonna get another shot at the Cruiserweight Championship, and when I do...

And with a look of sheer focus and determination, Bryan points at the ring and slowly says...

Bryan Danielson: The longest reign in Cruiserweight Championship history... is over!

*RAGE...*

The crowd respond with a terrific cheer as Danielson looks down at Helms, pure focus on his face, clearly determined to find a way to get another shot at Helms and the gold. In the ring, Helms is still raging at the embarrassment caused, leaning against the ropes, a furious scowl on his face, the camera switching between the two contrasting expressions on each man's face as we head off for a commercial.

*Commercial*

*Video Package*

A black screen fills the frame, as the opening chords of ‘Booyaka 619’ begin to play. As the music starts to grow, we fade into a match from the July 8th, 1996 episode of Monday Nitro, where Rey Mysterio hits a hurricanrana on Dean Malenko, hanging on tightly for the three count, with Tony Schiavone making the call...

”WE’VE GOT A NEW CHAMPION!”

Narrator: For years he has defied the laws of gravity…

We now fade in on Halloween Havoc ’97, where Mysterio soars through the air, over the top rope, crashing down on Eddie Guerrero with a hurricanrana onto the concrete, with Bobby Heenan shouting...

”I’VE NEVER SEEN ANYTHIN’ LIKE THIS IN MY ENTIRE LIFE!”

Narrator: Fans across the world have marvelled at his feats of athleticism…

The June 5th, 2003 episode of Friday Night SmackDown, where Mysterio counters Matt Hardy’s Twist of Fate into a bridging pin, becoming Cruiserweight Champion once more before we see Rey celebrate with his family as Michael Cole screams…

”MYSTERIO’S THE CHAMPION! MYSTERIO WON THE CHAMPIONSHIP!”

Narrator: He was always the ultimate underdog…

SummerSlam 2005, where Mysterio and Guerrero battle once more, this time in a Ladder Match, with Rey emerging victorious as Tazz yells…

”THE FIGHT IN THIS GUY IS UNBELIEVABLE!”

Narrator: Until he climbed to the very pinnacle of sports entertainment…

And finally WrestleMania XXII, where Rey hits the 619 then hits the West Coast Pop on Randy Orton, winning the World Heavyweight Championship and paying tribute to his late friend, Eddie Guerrero, with Cole again making the call…

”DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE!”

Narrator: And now, Rey Mysterio…

We cut to a darkened wrestling ring, where Mysterio stands, his back to us, his shaved head glistening in the light as he holds his mask in his hands, raising it above his head…

Narrator: Is returning to…

Mysterio slips on the mask, the camera rapidly zooming in for a close up just as Mysterio turns…

Narrator: Friday Night SmackDown!

And we see Mysterio staring into the camera, his eyes as green as the mask adorning his face, before we fade into the following graphic…



"REY MYSTERIO - RETURNING SOON TO FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!"


*End Video Package*

We're back, and it appears we're in the communal locker room where we see The New Breed, some pretty decent heat for the newest tag team on SmackDown. Both Elijah Burke and Monty Brown sit on steel chairs, still smarting after what happened to them last week, while behind them, Layla nervously paces back and forth...

Elijah Burke: Man, I can't believe what Teddy Long pulled on us last week. I mean, Matt Hardy and Batista, without any notice? That ain't fair man, that ain't right! I mean, if we knew about 'em both, we'd beat 'em.

The seething Brown rubs the knuckles on his hands, clearly looking for some way to take out his frustrations...

Monty Brown: I bet he thinks he real smart, huh? I bet he thinks he's taught us a lesson or somethin'.

Burke angrily nods his head in agreement, a smirk on his face as he does so...

Elijah Burke: Hey ain't taught me nothin'. All he did was-

Suddenly, the door to the locker room swings open, with all eyes turning off camera to see who has entered the room... and the camera pans to reveal it's Teddy Long. A warm response for the SmackDown General Manager from the crowd inside the arena, but it's clear from the look on their faces, nobody from The New Breed is happy to see Teddy in attendance...

Teddy Long: Just the three playas I was lookin' for. Burke, Brown, Layla... how are we this week? Perhaps that chip on yo' shoulders ain't so big now?

Brown completely blanks Teddy, his eyes fixated on the foor, while Burke laughs and shakes his head as Layla rolls her eyes, nobody offering a verbal response, at which Teddy simply shrugs his shoulders...

Teddy Long: A'ight. Well, all I came here to say was that I hope you two learned a thing or two from your match last week against Batista and Matt Hardy.

Pop from inside the arena for the mention of the World Heavyweight and United States Champion...

Teddy Long: This is SmackDown. And this is my show. And I'm not gonna stand for the kinda stunt you two pulled on The Hooligans a few weeks ago. Ya' want a title shot? That ain't the way to go about getting' it, ya' dig?

Looking like school children getting told off by their teacher, both Burke and Brown stare at the floor...

Teddy Long: You three playas wanna stick around on my show? Ya' gonna do things ma' way, ya' feel me?

Burke bursts from his chair, wanting to go nose to nose with Teddy, a look of concern on Layla's face a she realises Burke losing his temper does the team no favours right now...

Elijah Burke: Man, we ain't doin' no-

Layla: That's fine! That's absolutely fine, Teddy. We'll do things your way. I'm sure, deep down inside, Monty and Elijah know that that's the right way to do things now. Right guys?

Layla urges her team to agree, and despite clearly not agreeing, both Burke and Brown reluctantly nod their heads. With the team in agreement, Layla now steps beyond Burke, allowing her to rather seductively cosy up next to Teddy...

Layla: So... Teddy... now that we've learnt our lesson, is there perhaps a chance that The New Breed could have a title shot against The Hooligans? Pretty please?

Layla strokes a finger along Teddy's suit jacket and bats her eyelids, but Teddy isn't impressed...

Teddy Long: That ain't gonna get ya' nowhere, toots.

A few laughs from the fans, with Layla's jaw nearly hitting the floor, clearly offended...

Teddy long: But listen, I'm a fair man. I gave London and Kendrick the week off last week, London got the all clear from the doctor, so the champs are good to go. As for you two... if ya' want a title match, ya' gonna earn it.

Suddenly Burke and Brown perk up, interested in what's coming next...

Teddy Long: So tonight, it's gonna be The New Breed takin' on The Hooligans in a Non-Title Match. And I'm gonna make it real simple. If you two win... you get a shot at the champs at Judgment Day.

With a smirk on his face, Burke turns towards Brown, the two would be challengers nodding in agreement...

Teddy Long: But if ya' lose... then you two head to the back o' the line. How's that sound to you Layla?

Clearly confident in her teams abilities, all it takes is a quick check over the shoulder for Layla to respond positively...

Layla: I think we can work with that.

Teddy Long: Good. Now two cats better get ready, you up soon. Holla!

And with that, Teddy heads off and exits the room, leaving a very confident looking New Breed, Layla clearly happy with how the exchange went, while Burke and Brown start to take off their shirts and grab their bags, readying themselves for later tonight while we head back into the arena.

And we hear...

”OOOOOH CHAVO...”

*CHAVITO ARDIENTE...*

The boos quickly ring out as Chavo Guerrero and his aunt Vickie Guerrero head for the ring, the pair looking very smug and determined as they ignore the jeers of the fans...


Michael Cole: What a match just added to an already stacked show tonight, The Hooligans and The New Breed in non-title action, and if The New Breed win, they’ll get a shot at the titles at Judgment Day. But right now, here comes two people who I thought made some really disgusting comments last week with regards to the late Eddie Guerrero and his relationship with his longtime friend, Rey Mysterio.

Tazz: It was certainly some pretty intense words from Chavo and Vickie, who claimed that when Rey became World Heavyweight Champion last year at WrestleMania XXII, it shoulda been Chavo in that spot. To me, it just sounds like plain jealousy, but I’m sure you disagree with me on that, John.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Ya’ damn right I do! The Guerrero Family, the pioneers of Lucha Libre, a great wrestlin’ family, and when their favourite son Eddie died, Rey Mysterio exploited that, he tugged on the heart strings, and he wound up World Heavyweight Champion. That ain’t right.

Michael Cole: Now wait a minute. Rey won the 2006 Royal Rumble fair and square, he went to WrestleMania XXII and won the title fair and square. How can you sit there and agree with what Chavo and Vickie said last week?

John Bradshaw Layfield: ‘Cause they’re right! The Guerrero Family had to sit at home and watch that lil’ chihuahua become a champion, when it shoulda been Chavo all along. Chavo tried to warn Rey not to come back, but he’s comin’ back anyway, so at Judgment Day, Chavo’s gonna put ‘im on the shelf permanently!

In the ring, Vickie heads to the corner and calls for a microphone, handing it over to Chavo. A few boos linger from the crowd, with Chavo waiting for them to die down before he speaks…

Chavo Guerrero: So… I see the videos are still playin’. I guess that means Rey Mysterio is more stupid than I thought, that he hasn’t listened to my warnings, and that’s he’s still gonna face me at Judgment Day.

The crowd cheer for the prospect of the match, something Chavo fully acknowledges…

Chavo Guerrero: No, no, that’s alright with me. Truth be told… I’m really lookin’ forward to Judgment Day too. ‘Cause at Judgment Day… I’m gonna put an end to Rey’s storybook career, once… and for all.

This time the crowd responds with boos, Chavo staring out at them with a smirk on his face…

Chavo Guerrero: And I hope you people all buy your tickets for Judgment Day, I hope you all buy it on pay per view, so you can all witness the Rey Mysteiro farewell tour. Well, it’s not much of a tour to be honest… it’s one night only. One last match, one last night to cheer your little hearts out for Rey… before I finish what I started all those months ago, and finish him off.

More heat, although Vickie clearly approves of Chavo’s words as she nods along…

Chavo Guerrero: But… if it’s a Rey Mysterio farewell tour you all really want… well, since I’m such a nice guy… I’m gonna give it to ya’.

Confused faces all around, but Chavo raises a hand to call for patience while he explains…

Chavo Guerrero: This video that keeps playing, it highlights some of the great moments from Rey’s career. Well, I’m gonna take a trip down memory lane, and I’m gonna repeat a few moments from Rey’s career, myself.

A buzz of intrigue rings out around the arena, Chavo and Vickie flashing each other knowing smiles before Chavo continues…

Chavo Guerrero: I’m gonna revisit some of Rey’s great matches, some of his great rivalries, some of his most storied partnerships, and I’m gonna do ‘em all over again. Only I’m gonna do ‘em bigger and better than Rey ever could.

More heat, although this time Chavo and Vickie share a laugh…

Chavo Guerrero: And with that in mind, there’s a guy in that video who currently works backstage for the WWE. Infact, he’s here tonight in London, England!

Chavo tries to over exaggerate, but the fans aren’t buying it as they continue to boo…

Chavo Guerrero: So Dean Malenko, please… come down to the ring.

After a buzz of excitement for the mention of the longtime road agent, all eyes turns up towards the entrance way, the fans intrigued by the possible arrival of Malenko. Chavo and Vickie wait patiently, with Vickie looking pretty anxious, although Chavo is seen encouraging her to remain patient. The arena falls quiet, and then a small pop breaks out, as indeed we see Dean Malenko step out from the back, ‘The Iceman’ pacing towards the ring, although looking as confused as the rest of us as to why he’s been called out tonight. No music accompanies Malenko’s arrival, allowing us to hear the applause of the few fans in the arena who know who Malenko is. As Malenko climbs the steps, Vickie heads over to hold open the ropes, a move which initially catches Dean off guard, but one which he accepts. In the ring, Chavo has already been handed a second microphone, which he hands over to Malenko…

Chavo Guerrero: Dean, first of all I want to say thank you for agreeing to come out here and speak with us tonight.

Chavo extends his hand to Malenko, who naturally looks a little wary of accepting. After hesitating and waiting for quite a considerable pause, Malenko finally does agree to accept the handshake, although there’s no denying the cautious look on his face…

Chavo Guerrero: Now Dean, you were a great friend of my late Uncle Eddie. And to this day, you remain a very good friend of Rey Mysterio. But as we’ve seen week after week from that video, you and Rey, you weren’t always friends. At one point, you were great rivals. Back in WCW, you two had plenty of battle of the Cruiserweight Championship, is that right?

Choosing not to go to the mic yet, Malenko simply nods in agreement…

Chavo Guerrero: And of course, who can forget how you and Eddie arrived here in the WWE? You, Eddie, Chris Benoit, Perry Saturn, The Radicalz! What a group the four of you were! Four friends leaving WCW and coming here to the WWE. What a group of guys you were.

The crowd pop for the nostalgia on display, but Malenko clearly isn’t buying it…

Chavo Guerrero: And I know, Dean, that when my Uncle Eddie sadly passed away, you were there for us. You were there to offer your support, your comfort, your kind words of tribute to the Guerrero Family. And that’s something that I know my Father and his brothers, and of course, Vickie and the kids, I know that’s something they appreciated and will never forget.

Suddenly Guerrero’s tone changes as he purses his lip and screws up his face…

Chavo Guerrero: But… there’s also something you did that we didn’t appreciate.

Malenko raises his eyebrows, curious as to what he could have done wrong during The Guerrero’s time of need…

Chavo Guerrero: When Rey exploited my Uncle Eddie’s death, used it to gain sympathy from these idiots, and went all the way to WrestleMania XXII and became World Heavyweight Champion… you supported him durin’ that. You supported Rey as he ripped off the legacy of the Guerrero name!

Stepping forward, Chavo points a finger squarely in Malenko’s face, drawing hear from the crowd with both his words and actions…

Chavo Guerrero: You supported Rey, and as far as ma familia is concerned, that is nothin’ short of treason. When it comes down to it, when you had to make a choice between honouring the death of Eddie Guerrero, and supporting Rey as he exploited it, you chose Rey over your good friend, Eddie.

More heat from the fans, with Malenko shaking his head, clearly disagreeing…

Chavo Guerrero: You made your choice, and you made the wrong one. And now, each and every time I see that Rey Mysterio video play, and I see the two of you in that match, I realise that you turned your back on the Guerrero Family.

Once again Chavo steps forward, practically nose to nose with Malenko…

Chavo Guerrero: And for that… you should be ashamed of yourself.

Big time heat from the fans, with Chavo turning his back on Malenko, clearly having said what he intended to say. Having stood and listened to it all, Malenko now feels it’s time he had his say on things…

Dean Malenko: Chavo… you’ve got it all wrong, amigo. I’ll admit, Rey Mysterio is a very good friend of mine. And Eddie… Eddie was a great friend of mine. Every time I step into a WWE arena, I wish he was still here alongside me.

Chavo turns back around, nodding in appreciation…

Dean Malenko: Not only ‘cause I miss the hell outta ‘im… but so that maybe he could be the one to finally slap some sense into ya’!

A strong pop from the arena, with Chavo’s jaw nearly hitting the floor, while Vickie is heard shouting “Excuse me?!”…

Dean Malenko: Y’know, I listened to what you two said last week. And to tell ya’ the truth, it absolutely disgusted me!

Another loud pop, the fans loving seeing Malenko taking Chavo and Vickie to task…

Dean Malenko: I mean, Vickie… what the hell are you doin’ here? You think this is what Eddie would’ve wanted? I know you were his wife and all, but from what you’ve said, you haven’t got a damn clue!

Furious, Vickie lets out a squeal of frustration, Chavo comforting his Aunt by placing both hands on her shoulders…

Dean Malenko: You said Eddie hated Rey. That’s just not true, and you know it’s not. Eddie loved Rey like a brother, and you know that too, Chavo. They were great friends, right to the very end, no matter how many times they faced each other. That’s the exact same way it is between me and Rey. For all the rivalry, for all the great matches, for all the times we traded the Cruiserweight Championship back and forth, I love the little guy like a brother.

Distraught, Vickie shakes her head, as does Chavo, but the crowd are fully behind Malenko, cheering him on…

Dean Malenko: And that’s how I used to feel about you two until you started all this crap. Chavo, Vickie… I loved you like family. But now?

Malenko shakes his head solemnly…

Dean Malenko: I don’t even recognise the two people stood in the ring with me.

And yet another cheer, with Chavo and Vickie turning to look at each other, angry looks on both their faces…

Dean Malenko: Jealousy has got to you, Chavo. You’re jealous that Rey used Eddie’s death as his inspiration to become World Heavyweight Champion, a victory that he dedicated to Eddie.

Malenko looks down at the mat, shaking his head, clearly not able to believe he’s been placed in this situation…

Dean Malenko: This whole endin’ Rey’s career at Judgment Day, goin’ down memory lane… it’s really sad Chavo. And it’s definitely no way to remember Eddie.

Once again Malenko shakes his head…

Dean Malenko: You two need to let this go, and try mend a few broken bridges… before it’s too late.

Looking utterly dejected, Malenko turns on his heels and heads for the ropes, but before he gets there, Chavo calls out to him…

Chavo Guerrero: Hey… Dean! Dean! Listen, uh… that obviously wasn’t what I was expecting to happen right there. I thought that by bringin’ you out here, you’d hear the concerns of me, Vickie, and the rest of the family, and you’d agree with them. But uh… I guess from what you just said, you obviously don’t agree.

Chavo rubs a hand over his jaw, then bites his lower lip, clearly contemplating something very difficult…

Chavo Guerrero: Me and you Dean, we’ve always been friends. I don’t think I can ever consider you ma familia anymore, but…

Again Chavo rubs his hand over his jaw, covering his mouth for a few seconds, then rubbing a hand through his hair, before he finally speaks…

Chavo Guerrero: I’m man enough to respect your opinion. I won’t take up anymore of your time. Put it there man…

Just like the earlier handshake, Malenko is understandably cautious, even more so now given all that was said. Both men look they’ve been through the emotional wringer after that one, and Malenko stares at a rather dejected, broken Chavo. Sensing a look of sadness, sorrow, maybe even a tinge of regret, Malenko weighs it up… and then he finally does shake Chavo’s hand. A small cheer and round of applause breaks out from the fans as the two exchange a long handshake, and the applause grows even louder as Chavo pulls Malenko in and embraces him, Chavo looking like he’s desperately trying to hold back the tears. Malenko reciprocates the hug, before the pair finally separate.

Malenko then turns towards Vickie, she too seemingly touched by his words, the two also sharing a hug, with Dean placing a tender kiss on Vickie’s cheek, then clearly heard by the camera saying…

”I’m sorry. I had to say it.”

Vickie nods in agreement, also looking like she’s struggling to hold back tears, and as Malenko backs away, Chavo moves in to take over consoling duties of his Aunt. Malenko seems pleased that his words have gotten through, and after one final nod of appreciation for the two Guerrero’s he turns and heads towards the ropes… but just as he steps one leg through them… Chavo makes his move… and kicks the middle rope… right into Malenko’s crotch! A low blow from Chavo!

”Aw, you no good sunnova bitch!”

Tazz reacts just as furiously as the crowd does as they shit all over Chavo’s actions, but Chavo doesn’t care, looking like a man possessed as he mounts Malenko, hammering him with a flurry of furious rights and lefts, not giving a damn how accurate they are, simply concerned with doing as much damage as possible. Vickie is loving it, laughing loudly as Chavo punishes Malenko, even going as far as to rip the shirt off the back of the backstage agent. Malenko is down, clearly in agony, barely moving as he still grabs between his legs, but Chavo quickly drags him away from the ropes, then leaves him in perfect position as he climbs upstairs, holds his arms out, performs the old chest shimmy just like his Uncle Eddie, then he flies… FROG SPLASH!!

It’s nuclear heat from the London crowd as Chavo emphatically delivers, leaving Malenko down and out, and completely humiliated into the bargain. Chavo gets back on his feet, loving the boos of the crowd, he and Vickie soaking them up, with Vickie raising Chavo’s hand in triumph, the boos continuing to rain down as we head to a commercial.

*Commercial*

We return to the sight of Kristal Marshall standing by, ready to conduct another interview…


Kristal Marshall: Welcome back to SmackDown folks. And please welcome my guest at this time, he is the challenger to the World Heavyweight Championship... Mr. Kennedy!

As always there's a loud initial pop that quickly gets drowned out by boos as Mr. Kennedy steps into view, an arrogant smirk on his face as he loudly chews on a piece of gum...

Kristal Marshall: And Mr. Kennedy, after your victory over Edge last week, tonight you get another shot at Batista and the World Heavyweight Championship. What are your thoughts ahead of your title opportunity later tonight?

Kennedy over-exaggerates as he chews his gum and taps his chin, cocking his head from side to side...

Mr. Kennedy: My thoughts? Well Kristal, it's all really very simple. The last time me and Big Dave faced each other for the World Heavyweight Championship was way back at No Way Out. And we all remember what happened that night. I had Batista down, I had him beat, only for Old Yeller himself, Ric Flair and his buddy Arn Anderson to show up and screw me outta the title. And I'm not gonna lie to ya', that one... that one stung just a bit. That one really hit home as a chance missed. But what happened?

Kennedy smirks as he shrugs his shoulders...

Mr. Kennedy: I wound up goin' to WrestleMania, and in the biggest match of my career, on the biggest night of my life... I beat that old timer to within an inch of his life... and I ended his career. I took a negative and I turned it into a positive, I used all the pain and anger Flair caused me at No Way Out, and I turned in the performance of a lifetime when it mattered most.

Heat from inside the arena, which Kennedy ignores...

Mr. Kennedy: I'll never forget No Way Out. It feeds my hunger, it drives me on, and tonight is the night I finally set the record straight, I change Friday nights once and for all by fulfilling my destiny.

In a euphoric moment, Kennedy closes his eyes, dreaming of golry...

Mr. Kennedy: You people, you just have no idea how big a night this is tonight. How important a night this could be in WWE history. I mean, London, England, you’ve seen so much in this city. You’ve got royalty, you’ve got parliament, you’ve got those guys that just stand there and don’t do anythin’ even when ya’ threaten to smack ‘em in the face, but you’ve never seen anythin’ like you’re gonna see tonight. ‘Cause tonight you all get to witness firsthand the dawning of a new era here on SmackDown, a new era in WWE history.

More heat, at which Kennedy just laughs at...

Mr. Kennedy: When I beat Edge last week... infact, wait, speakin' about that whining jackass for a second... I wanna make somethin' clear to him right now. Edge, if you're watchin' this, then you pay close attention, pal. If you even think about getting' involved tonight, if you eventhink about stickin' your nose in my business... then when I'm done with Big Dave, I'm comin' after you next. if you even take one step past that entrance way tonight, steel chair or no steel chair, I'm gonna freakin' tear you apart. Don't worry about Batista getting' his hands on ya', I'm gonna beat 'im to the punch!

And now Kennedy turns and stares straight down the camera, pointing a finger to add emphasis when he says...

Mr. Kennedy: Edge... stay – the hell – away.

That last comment actually draws a pop from inside the arena, but Kristal pulls the mic back towards her to ask a follow up question...

Kristal Marshall: Mr. Kennedy, do you have any response to what Batista had to say earlier tonight? He said that-

Mr. Kennedy: Yeah, yeah, yeah, I heard 'im. I heard what he said.

Kennedy crosses his arms across his chest and again exaggerates as he takes a deep breath and shakes his head...

Mr. Kennedy: Big bad Batista says I'm too cocky, I'm too arrogant, I don't have enough passion or desire, that I don't know how to become a champion. Y'know, I've heard a lotta bad interviews from that guy, but lemme tell ya', that one earlier tonight, that had to be the worse one yet! But I'll give 'im one thing... there's one thing he's absolutely right about. I did learn somethin' when I beat Ric Flair at WrestleMania. I learned how to be ruthless. I learned how to show no compassion. I found that killer instinct that maybe I was lackin' just a touch.

Kennedy uses his fingers to indicate just how close he was to victory last time...

Mr. Kennedy: And I look back at No Way Out, and I think... I never finished Batista off when I had the chance. I was cocky, I was arrogant, I thought I had the title in my hands, but I took my eye off the ball, and I gave Flair the chance to save his buddy. So I guess, in a weird way... I owe Ric a thank you. 'Cause in a way, he helped me get to where I am tonight, and he helped me... become World Heavyweight Champion.

More heat...

Mr. Kennedy: So Ric, sit back, relax, enjoy your retirement, and I hope you'll enjoy watchin' what happens tonight. Enjoy this night, the most historic broadcast in SmackDown history, where finally... we crown a new World Heavyweight Champion... and his name is... MMMIIISSSTTTEEERRR... KKKEEENNNNNNEEEDDDYYY!

A loud mixed reaction from inside the arena, with Kennedy turning and leaving, Kristal looking to wrap things up, until...

Mr. Kennedy: KEN – NAH – DAY!

Caught by surprise, Kristal lets out a little squeal of shock, before she places a hand on her chest and breathes deeply, trying to regain her composure, while Kennedy has a few more chews of his gum in her face before he makes his exit, leaving an exasperated Marshall behind as we head elsewhere.

And it’s to a rather random backstage corridor we go, where we see walking along it King Booker and Queen Sharmell, the pair looking as regal and majestic as ever. The pair walk hand in hand, Booker giving a royal wave to many of backstage workers the pair pass as they move at a quick pace...


Queen Sharmell: But my liege, I do not understand. Why have you agreed to speak with Mr. Coachman again?

King Booker: Because my Queen, I find him amusing. His attempts to convince me to hire him as an advisor last week provided your King with hours of entertainment last week. Perhaps... I shall hire him as my royal jester?

The pair continue to walk, until they come to a door with a nameplate on it that reads “Coachman Inc.”, signalling they’re in the right place. Sharmell opens the door and holds it open for Booker, who steps through... but then puts on the breaks, a furious scowl on his face, and the camera pans to reveal why... as already sat in the room is Montel Vontavious Porter. ‘MVP’ rolls his eyes as soon as he sees Booker enter the room, not able to believe his luck...

King Booker: What da’... ‘da hell are you doin’ here, sucka?

Sharmell clears her throat, reminding Booker that he’s let his accent slip...

King Booker: I mean... how dare you not bow down before your King when he enters your presence!

Just as he’s done in recent weeks, ‘MVP’ shakes his head and ignores the royal chat...

Montel Vontavious Porter: Wait a minute. What am I doin’ here? What the hell are you two doin’ here? I told y’all last week I was done wit’ ya’.

King Booker: We are here to hold court with Mr. Coachman, not that it be any of your concern!

’MVP’ rubs his eyes in annoyance, it all making sense now...

Montel Vontavious Porter: That damn ‘Coach’, he set this up! He asked me to meet ‘im here too. He wanted to get us in the same room at the same time!

King Booker: What!? How dare he! This is an outrage! One has never been so besmirched in one’s entire life!

And speak of the devil, the door opens and in steps Jonathan Coachman, looking much more refined compared to the state we last saw him in near the end of last week’s show. With a clean, sharp suit on, ‘Coach’ looks very confident as he enters the room with open arms and a smile...

Jonathan Coachman: Fellas! And lady, of course... how we doin'? I'm glad you could all make it. I think you're gonna be really excited by what I have to say.

Rolling his eyes, ‘MVP’ is clearly already tired of this and wants to get down to business...

Montel Vontavious Porter: Yo', what's the deal 'Coach'? You said you had a business proposal for me. Well lemme tell ya' right now, I ain't doin' business wit' 'im!

Booker’s eyes bulge from their sockets and his nostrils flare, clearly offended by that...

King Booker: And I, King Bookah, will not lower myself to do dealings with a common street thug such as 'MVP'.

Montel Vontavious Porter: Who you callin' a thug man?

A brief argument breaks out between the two, but ‘Coach’ quickly moves to settle it...

Jonathan Coachman: Guys, guys, guys! Relax! Let's just have everybody settle down here a minute. I've got somethin' I wanna say to both of you, and I want you both to listen very carefully. Try approach this with an open mind.

Coachman looks at both men sympathetically, which seems to bye him the time to speak...

Jonathan Coachman: Since WrestleMania, you two haven't exactly been settin' the world on fire. I mean, you both had one match each, against Kane... and you both lost, pretty convincingly. And the other weeks... you haven't been on the card at all. Infact, neither of you two is scheduled to be in a match tonight either. And y'know what guys?

'Coach' steps between the two and places a hand on each man's shoulder, which draws another disgusted look from Booker...

Jonathan Coachman: I think that's really sad. Two great talents like yourself, and Teddy Long, he doesn't know what to do with you both! But me? I know exactly what to do. I can help you rebuild your careers. 'MVP', I can get you that first championship here on SmackDown. Booker, I can get you back in the World Heavyweight Championship hunt. All I need first... is a small favour.

Curious glances from both men...

Montel Vontavious Porter: What kinda favour?

Jonathan Coachman: You don't need to know that right now. All you need to know is that I've got somebody big, and I mean... big... already on board for this. I've got one guy signed up, but I want you two to be part of it as well. You show me a little bit of faith, you help me out... and I'll deliver my end of the deal. Title shots, endorsement deals, I can get you all... if you just sign up.

Booker turns to look at Sharmell for guidance, who simply rolls her eyes, while ‘MVP’ looks down at the floor as he ponders the proposal...

Jonathan Coachman: What do you say guys? Huh?

Booker remains silent, but ‘MVP’ picks his head up, a mixture of intrigue and scepticism on his face...

Montel Vontavious Porter: You can get me title shots? Sponsorships deals? You can make me more money?

Jonathan Coachman: Absolutely!

Pursing his lips, ‘MVP’ thinks if over once more, then nods his head...

Montel Vontavious Porter: Yeah... yeah, a'ight. I'm in. But I want a contract, and I want my lawyers to look over it before I sign it.

Jonathan Coachman: I wouldn't expect anything less! Booker? How 'bout you? You on board?

Booker pauses, considering things for a few moments, before he lets out a laugh and shakes his head...

King Booker: Mr. Coachman... you have shown a great deal of disloyalty to your King here. You side with this commoner, and expect your King to be party to it? Never!

And with a dramatic whoosh of his robe, Booker turns his back on ‘Coach’ and ‘MVP’...

King Booker: Good day to you both!

And then walks off, with Sharmell delivering one final “Hmm – mm!” before she too exits the room. ‘Coach’ doesn’t look too worried about it, although ‘MVP’ doesn’t exactly look thrilled so far...

Jonathan Coachman: Ah, don't worry about him. He'll come on board eventually. Alright wait, I gotta make a phone call.

’Coach’ reaches into his inside jacket pocket and pulls out his cellphone, dialling a few numbers before he holds it to his ear and waits for a response...

Jonathan Coachman: Hey! Hey it's me, 'Coach' (...) Well, I got 'MVP' (...) Booker's still a work in progress, but I'll get 'im eventually (...) Great! So everything's on schedule with you? (...) Perfect. Two weeks! I can't wait (...) Alright great. I was just keepin' you up to speed (...) Alright, bye.

A brief conversation leads to ‘Coach’ snapping his phone shut. ‘MVP’ looks on with intrigue, wondering like the rest of us who is on the other end of the phone, but before he gets a chance to ask, ‘Coach’ grabs two glasses of champagne and offers on to ‘MVP’, holding the other in position for a toast...

Jonathan Coachman: 'MVP'... welcome to The Coachman Coalition. I think this is gonna be the start of a very successful partnership.

The two clink glasses together to share a toast, then both take a sip, smug looks on both men's faces as the segment comes to an end.

And we go back into the arena to hear...

*SLICED BREAD...*

A good pop as The Hooligans burst into the arena, both Paul London and Brian Kendrick doing their best to fire up the crowd. The pair then stand at the top of the aisle, until Ashley Massaro sends both of them sprinting down towards the ring, with London's knee injury now looking healed as he's able to match Kendrick stride for stride...


Michael Cole: What a night it's already been here on Friday Night SmackDown, and we've still got the chance of seeing a new World Heavyweight Champion when Batista and Mr. Kennedy meet with the gold on the line. But right now, it's non-title action as The Hooligans get set to take on The New Breed, and I think it's great see that Paul London's knee now looks to be back to 100%.

Tazz: It's great news for the champs. Things have been a little strained recently between the two of 'em, they've been sufferin' with London's bum knee, but now he's healthy, I'm sure all that's behind 'em and they'll be back to their best right here.

john Bradshaw Layfield; I wouldn't be so sure. I know what it's like to have tension with a tag partner, it don't always fix itself that easy. This'll be a big test right here against The New Breed, and I dunno if these two are mentally up for the challenge right now.

*DON'T WASTE MY TIME...*

And some pretty solid heat as The New Breed step out from the back, the team of Elijah Burke and Monty Brown looking extremely confident as they're lead down the aisle by Layla, with the hulking Brown snarling at the ringside fans...


Michael Cole: I don't doubt for one second this isn't gonna be a big test for the champion. The New Breed are a real blend of speed and power. These two impressed me last week with how close they ran Batista and Matt Hardy, and another performance like that could see them score a win over the champions here tonight.

Tazz: And of course, a win right right here means they're goin' to Judgment Day to challenge for the WWE Tag Team Championships. Big opportunity right here for Burke and Brown.

John Bradshaw Layfield: I think after the way London and Kendrick disgraced our brand at WrestleMania, I can't wait to see Burke and Brown as champions. That's a combination to be proud of right there, and I'm sure they'll get the job done both here tonight and at Judgment Day.

Match 3: Non-Title Match
WWE Tag Team Champions The Hooligans w/ Ashley Massaro vs. The New Breed w/ Layla

Looking to test out his previously injured knee, London steps forward to kick things off for the champs, opposed by Elijah Burke. The two come together, jockeying for position, until London is able to drive Burke back into the corner. The ref steps in and calls for the break, which of course London provides... only to then be caught with a cheap shot as he backs away! Burke now comes out of the corner landing right hands that back London to the ropes, where he then goes for an Irish whip across... only for London to duck his clothesline attempt... then connect with a flying forearm! London now goes on the attack, landing elbows to the face, then a pair of boots to the midsection, before he goes for an Irish whip to the corner... Burke reverses and follows in... but London elevates himself... then catches Burke with a headscissor takedown! Burke is back to his feet, charging at London, who takes him down with a drop toe hold, then reaches up to tag in Kendrick. Kendrick slingshots into the ring with a somersault senton across Burke's back, then the champs go for some double team action, as they fire Burke off the ropes... double hiptoss, then they slap hands... double elbow drop! Kendrick goes for the cover... 1... 2... Burke kicks out. Both men are back up, Kendrick landing forearms to the face, before he takes Burke down with a headlock takedown, hanging on to wrench on the head in an attempt to wear Burke down. It doesn't last long though as Burke forces both men back up, but as he backs them to the ropes, he doesn't see Kendrick tag in London, just before Burke shoves Kendrick off the ropes... Kendrick avoids the contact with a baseball slide, and when Burke turns... London wipes him out with a dropkick! London crawls into the lateral press... 1... 2... Burke kicks out again.

London looks to stay on the attack as he charges off the ropes, but Monty Brown reaches in, grabs a handful of hair... and yanks London down to the mat! London smacks skull first off the canvas, the referee having missed it, but Burke wastes no time in tagging in Brown, who quickly lays into London with a flurry of stomps to the chest. Brown is all power as he yanks London up, then drops him with a sidewalk slam for a near fall, before he tags in Burke. Burke enters and simply tosses London through the ropes to the floor, then goes to pick a fight with Kendrick in the corner, drawing the eye of the referee. The distraction allows Brown to drop down to the floor, where he scoops London up... and flapjacks him off the top of the barricade! London flops to the floor, but Brown quickly rolls him back in, allowing Burke to score another near fall. In the corner, Burke lands three shots to the midsection then a big uppercut, before he goes for the Irish whip across... but London reverses then charges in... but Burke moves to safety... and London winds up spearing the ringpost! London falls to the mat in pain, but Burke is already racing in... OUTER LIMITZ ELBOW! Burke gets all of it, hooks the leg... 1... 2... London hangs in there! The New Breed now have their opening, targeting the arm as they do damage with Brown hitting a shoulderbreaker while Burke gets a long two count from a single arm DDT. More punishment follows, until Brown again goes close to victory with a one armed swinging neckbreaker, before he tags Burke back in. Burke aims a few stomps to the shoulder, then he hooks London up, dropping down for a scissored armbar. Burke pulls back, wrenching on the arm, trying to make London submit, but London hangs in there, feeding off the energy of the crowd as they will him to make a comeback. London manages to swing a leg, catching Burke with a pair of kicks to the face, finally breaking the hold. Both men are up, with Burke landing a pair of rights to the damaged shoulder, before he sends London for the ride... then looks for a flapjack... but London shifts his weight in mid air... and counters with a tornado DDDT!

Both men are down, crawling to their corners... here comes Brown... and now Kendrick gets the tag! Brown storms across the ring, but Kendrick avoids him, drilling his shoulder into the midsection, before he slingshots to the top rope... springboard crossbody! Kendrick now goes on the attack, landing right hands, forearms and kicks, before he goes for an Irish whip... which Brown reverses... Kendrick comes off the ropes with a leg lariat! Brown stumbles back up... hurricanrana! Kendrick hangs on for the pin... 1... 2... Burke breaks it up with a boot to the skull! The referee admonishes Burke, ushering him from the ring, but Burke's fine with that as he stands in the corner and waits for a tag from Brown. Entering the ring, Burke calls on his partner to head to the ropes as the pair line up a double team... Burke goes for an Irish whip... but before Brown can go for the POUNCE... London yanks him feet from under him and drags him under the bottom rope! Burke goes for the Irish whip, not realising his partner isn't there... and Kendrick reverses it... and London slides in... DOUBLE FLAPJACK! Burke is down, and despite not being the legal man, Paul London climbs upstairs, while Kendrick takes Burke to the opposite corner, the champions looking for a double team move of their own. Kendrick makes his move... only for Layla to jump up onto the apron! Layla distracts London... just as Kendrick delivers SLICED BREAD to Burke... but as he holds Burke in place for London to fly... London is still arguing with Layla! Eventually Kendrick lets Burke go and heads to the corner, wanting to know what's going on... and finally Ashley is over to drag Layla down to the floor... but as Kendrick confronts London, here comes Burke... ELIJAH EXPRESS... drives Kendrick against the turnbuckle... and sends London flying to the floor! Burke takes advantage of the confusion, and he hooks both of Kendrick's legs... 1... 2... 3!

Winners: The New Breed @ 07.32

The arena is shocked as The New Breed pull off the upset win, the confusion between London and Kendrick costing them dearly as Burke takes advantage. Elijah quickly rolls outside to celebrate with Brown and Layla, while Ashley slides into the ring, head in her hands, struggling to work out how the match slipped away from them. London is back in too, and when Kendrick finally comes back around, he calls for answers from London, who does his best to explain how it was just a misunderstanding. Kendrick doesn't look like he's buying it though as he turns his back on his partner and kicks the bottom rope angrily, but Ashley is there to console him, ensuring Kendrick that it was just a mistake. The referee hands over the title belts, and it appears Kendrick is willing to accept it was an honest mistake, although he still looks pretty pissed off, and the dissension is clear as we head to commercial.

*Commercial*

*Video Package*​

We open to a dismal, rainy scene, a solemn church bell ringing loudly in the background. We slowly see peasants trudging through the rain and mud of what appears to be an eighteenth century town, everybody dressed like pilgrims of the time. As the camera pans, we see a rather portly town crier, who rings a handbell to a much faster beat than the previous church bell...

Town Crier: Hear ye! Hear ye! Thy day of reckoning is upon us!

We hear the clang of a nearby blacksmith hammering down on a piece of raw metal, with the close up revealing the blacksmith to be none other than SmackDown’s own Matt Hardy, dressed in the traditional garb...

Town Crier: Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age!

Hardy tosses his hammer aside and slowly trudges off camera, passing the town reverend, who just so happens to be Mr. Kennedy, with Kennedy also dressed in the church fashion of the time...

Town Crier: I tell thee my friends, do not fear thee who kill the body, and after that can do no more!

Kennedy glances down at the bible in his hands, then tosses it down into the mud, before he follows Hardy off camera...

Town Crier: But I will warn you whom to fear! Fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast thee into hell!

A man in a horse slowly approaches, the man being revealed as Batista. ‘The Animal’ quickly drops down off the horse, the buckle on his boots clunking heavily as he lands before he too walks off camera...

Town Crier: I tell thee, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak!

We now see Edge chopping wood, aggressively swinging an axe into a log set up on a stump, but he soon wipes the wet hair from his face, tosses the axe aside and exits the scene...

Town Crier: So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy!

King Booker and Queen Sharmell sit on thrones like a Mayor and Mayorness, with Booker soon standing up out of his chair, leaving Sharmell behind as he heads out of the frame...

Town Crier: For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.

The town magistrate is played by Chris Benoit, complete with wig, who suddenly sits upright from behind the bench of his courtroom and storms out of the building mid trial, leaving behind a full courtroom of confused people...

Town Crier: And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that rises from the bottomless pit will make war on them and conquer them and kill them!

We now see practically the entire SmackDown roster, all dressed for the time, stood surrounding the Town Crier, who now has a petrified look on his face…

Town Crier: Oh death, where is your victory? Oh death, where is your sting?

Suddenly, out of nowhere, the Town Crier is clobbered by Umaga, who is dressed as he normally would be. Umaga now stands with one foot on the chest of the crier, the camera looking down on him in pain, but he manages to get in the last word as he shouts...

”Judgment Day... is upon us!”



"WWE JUDGMENT DAY – MAY 20TH - LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW!"

*End Video Package*

From the video, we now head to the announce desk to see the rather sombre looking face of our announce team...

Michael Cole: Yes folks, Judgment Day is on the horizon, just three weeks after this Sunday’s Raw presentation of Backlash, SmackDown makes it’s return to pay per view. And two weeks ago, Chris Benoit earned the right to challenge Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship, only to have that opportunity taken away from him after a sickening one man con-chair-to assault by Edge.

Tazz: Benoit wasn’t on SmackDown last week, he didn’t make the trip across the pond this week, and quite frankly, as it stands right now... we don’t know when he’ll be back, if ever.

Michael Cole: Benoit spoke about retiring at some point over the summer, but it looks like Edge may have pushed Benoit into an early retirement. A real shame to have to say that, but Edge has been acting like a man possessed lately, and Benoit suffered the consequences of that.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Well, ya’ gotta look at it from Edge’s point of view. He got screwed outta the title at WrestleMania, he got screwed outta earnin’ a rematch by Benoit, he got screwed again last week, the guy’s feelin’ the world’s against ‘im right now, and I happen to agree with ‘im. If ya’ don’t want Edge to lash out, then stay the hell outta his way!

Michael Cole: Already Judgment Day is shaping up to be quite the show, but what part will Edge play? And who’s gonna be World Heavyweight Champion by the time we get there? We’ll find that out later tonight when Batista and Mr. Kennedy collide.

After a few seconds of silence...

*LA VITTORIA E MIA...*

SmackDown's resident comedy stable The Full Blooded Italians make their entrance, with Santino Marella and his doll Trinity leading Big Vito and the two men scheduled to compete tonight, Nunzio and Tony Mamaluke down the aisle is his usual ridiculous fashion...


Michael Cole: Lately Santino has been pretty upset with the way things have been goin' for The F.B.I., especially when it comes to them bein' embarrassed by people. And it was bein' embarrassed by Funaki and Jimmy Wang Yang that has led to his matchup tonight.

John Bradshaw Layfield: The guy oughta be embarrassed to walk around in that stupid lookin' hat.

Tazz: Look who's talkin'...

*GONNA PUNCH SOMEONE TONIGHT...*

Not a huge pop, but a positive reaction nonetheless as Jimmy Wang Yang and Funaki run out from the back, both men waving to the crowd and slapping the hands of the fans along the aisle. Funaki even has his own cowboy hat to match Jimmy's, suggesting these two might be becoming a more permanent unit...


Michael Cole: Now I spoke with Funaki and Jimmy Wang Yang earlier this afternoon, and he told me that these two are looking to become a more permanent tag team together. They've even told me they wanted to be known as The Asian ********. What d'ya think of that guys?

John Bradshaw Layfield: Oh my God...

Tazz: Asian ********? I kinda like that!

John Bradshaw Layfield: I can't believe I work in this environment...

Michael Cole: Well it makes sense if ya' think about it. Jimmy has certainly been embracing the ******* lifestyle over the last year, and since he arrived in the WWE, Funaki has settled with his family in Texas. These two could be a really exciting addition to the tag team division here on SmackDown.

Match 4: Tag Team Match
The Full Blooded Italians (Nunzio and Tony Mamaluke)
w/ Santino Marella, Big Vito and Trinity vs. The Asian ********

Funaki and Nunzio get ready to kick this one off, the two coming together for a collar and elbow tie up, the two countering in and out of standing side headlocks, until Nunzio goes for a headlock takedown... but Funaki quickly breaks it up with a headscissors, both men bursting back to their feet, only for Funaki to use a headlock takedown to settle things down again. Nunzio battles back to his feet, then backs both men to the ropes, where he shoves ‘Naki off the opposite side... Funaki runs him over with a shoulderblock! Quickening the pace, ‘Naki comes off the ropes, but Nunzio avoids him with a leapfrog... but Funaki puts on the breaks... and rattles Nunzio with a dropkick to the back of head! The force knocks Nunzio into the ropes, and he rebounds... into an inverted DDT! Here’s a cover... 1... 2.. Nunzio kicks out. ‘Naki grabs hold and yanks Nunzio to the face corner, where Jimmy gets the tag. Funaki wrings on Nunzio’s arm, while Jimmy climbs to the top rope... double axe handle across the arm! Jimmy decides to continue to target the arm as he wrenches on it, then goes for an Irish whip off the ropes... but Nunzio reverses... only for Jimy to duck underneath a clothesline... then come off the other side... tilt-a-whirl headscissor takedown! Nunzio is sent flying, the force of the move sending him sprawling to his corner, where he tags in Mamaluke.

Tony slings himself over the top rope and races at Jimmy... right into an armdrag! Mamaluke is back up... another armdrag, and this time Jimmy hangs on for an armbar. Mamaluke works back to a vertical base, backing both men to the ropes, then he shoves Jimmy across the ring... running crossbody! Here’s a cover... 1... 2... Mamaluke kicks out, but The F.B.I. are reeling right now. Mamaluke stumbles back to his feet, where Jimmy drives him to the ropes with right hands. Another Irish whip, but as Mamaluke comes off the ropes, Nunzio makes a blind tag... Yang scores with the back body drop on Mamaluke... then gets hammered with a missile dropkick from Nunzio! Finally the Italians get a grip on the match, with Nunzio pounding Yang with a flury of boots and right hands on the canvas, before he takes Jimmy up and down an agressive backbreaker for a near fall. A snap suplex follows, and after another near fall, Nunzio drags Jimmy up, lands a pair of forearms to the lower spine, then looks to send Jimmy to the corner... only for Jimmy to run up the ropes... then come off the rope with a backflip... as Nunzio runs underneath! Jimmy lands on his feet behind Nunzio, who manages to put on the breaks... but this allows Jimmy to run him into the corner and then back out with a rollup! 1... 2... Nunzio kicks out, but the momentum sends Jimmy back to the corner... and he runs up the ropes once again... to this time fly with a TOP ROPE MOONSAULT! 1... 2... Vito storms the ring and breaks it up! All hell breaks loose as first Vito then Santino storm the ring to attack Jimmy and Funaki, and the referee calls for an instant disqualification!

Winners: Via Disqualification, The Asian ******** @ 03.12

It's chaos in the ring as Santino and Vito join Nunzio and Mamaluke is laying into Funaki and Wang Yang with a beating, the four angry Italians laying in with a flurry of boots, taking out all the angry and frustration from recent weeks on their opponents. Vito now drags Funaki up and holds him in place, allowing Santino to land comical yet well placed right hands to the face, but it all comes to a stop as...

*MACMILLITANT...*

The SmackDown General Manager Teddy Long strides out from the back, microphone in hand, wasting little time in putting an end to this...


Teddy Long: Wait a minute! Wait just a minute there, playas!

Vito tosses Funaki back down to the mat, and all eyes look up the aisle at the entrance way where Long stands...

Teddy Long: Santino! You better call yo' boys off. This ain't how this match is gonna go down. You challenged Jimmy and Funaki to a straight up Tag Team Match. If ya' wanted to make this a Handicap Match, all ya' had to do was ask.

Santino’s eyes light up at the thought of going four on two with Jimmy and Funaki, but Teddy isn’t finished yet…

Teddy Long: So that's what we're gonna do. I am gonna restart this match as a Handicap Match. So it's gonna be you four playas, takin' on Funaki, Jimmy Wang Yang... and their tag team partner...

*BOOM!*
*SLOW CHEMICAL...*

Oh dear... Santino's worse nightmare comes true again as Kane enters the arena, a sick smile on his face as he crosses paths with Teddy and heads down the aisle. Santino looks petrified, even searching for divine intervention as he blesses himself, but it looks like nothing is going to save him from this one...


Michael Cole: It's happening all over again for Santino! Two weeks ago, Kane was introduced as his mystery opponent, and now he's been brought out here by Teddy Long to even up the odds!

Tazz: And Kane has been on a tear ever since WrestleMania. The guy's just been puttin' a hurtin' on people, and think he's back for a second shot at Marella and the rest of his goons.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Might as well tell Jimmy and Funaki to take the rest of the night off. Kane ain't gonna waste any time once he gets his hands on Santino. It ain't gonna be pretty, but at least it'll be over in a hurry...

Match 5: Four on Three Handicap Match
Kane and The Asian ********
vs. The Full Blooded Italians w/ Trinity

Naturally it’s Kane who’s up first for the faces, and after much finger pointing and deliberation, Vito is shoved forward by Santino to oppose him. It’s with a nervous look that Vito tries to circle the ring to keep his distance, but Kane soon closes in, trapping Vito in the corner, but Vito tries to make a break for it… Kane catches him… and yanks him against the turnbuckle! Now Kane unloads with rapid fire rights and lefts to the midsection, before a big shot to the throat knocks Vito off his feet! Vito is yanked back up, more shots landing to the throat, before Kane scoops him up, slams him down, then comes off the ropes… low angle dropkick! Instead of going for a cover, Kane drags Vito to his corner and tags in Jimmy, who tags Vito with well-placed right hands, but when he looks for the Irish whip off the ropes, Vito reverses… but swings and misses with a clothesline… Jimmy connects with a spinning wheel kick! Vito hits the mat, but he has the sense to reach up and tag in Nunzio, who takes his time entering the ring, tapping the side of his head, indicating this time he’s ready and not gonna fall into any attacks from Yang. The two circle the ring then lock up, with Nunzio quickly going for a waistlock takedown, but Jimmy forces both men back up, trying to break the grip around his waist. Nunzio hangs on, meaning Jimmy has to grab the wrist and roll to finally break free. Both men burst to their feet and race at each other… Nunzio swings and misses with a clothesline, but Jimmy puts on the breaks… then catches Nunzio with a hurricanrana! 1… 2… Nunzio kicks out. Looking to quicken the pace, Jimmy charges towards the ropes… only for Mamaluke to low bridge them… causing Jimmy to crash over the top and all the way to the floor! Funaki storms into the ring to protest, but this only causes the ref to turn his back on the action, allowing Vito and Mamaluke to drop down to the floor, laying into him with a flurry of boots, an absolute mugging on the floor, before Vito tosses him back into the ring.

Nunzio pounces, taking advantage by laying in with more stomps, before he drags Jimmy up then takes him down with a side Russian legsweep. The heels work well together to isolate Jimmy from his team, with Vito doing damage with a long delayed vertical suplex, while Mamaluke gets a long two count from a bridging northern lights suplex. Nunzio is back in, and he aims his assault at Jimmy’s neck, hitting repeated legdrops to the back of the head, then when he comes off the ropes and sees Jimmy with his head down, scores a snap swinging neckbreaker for another near fall. More damage is done as Mamaluke hits a tornado DDT, Nunzio connects with a falling neckbreaker, before Vito gets the longest near fall yet after a savate kick nearly takes Jimmy’s head off. Nunzio is back in, and he looks to finish things off with the Sicilian Slice… but when he flies from the second rope, Yang rolls to one side… and Nunzio crashes to the mat! Jimmy now crawls for his corner… and tags in Kane! ‘The Big Red Machine’ steps over the top rope and sees Nunzio running at him… big boot to the face! Here comes Mamaluke… shot to the throat! Now it’s Vito who charges… right into a sidewalk slam! Kane now heads outside then climbs upstairs, waiting for the trio in the ring to rise… FLYING CLOTHESLINE WIPES ALL THREE! The impact knocks Mamaluke under the bottom rope, while Nunzio manages to crawl to his corner… to tag in Santino… but Santino didn’t want the tag! Marella cowers with fear, pleading that he doesn’t want to enter the ring, but the ref confirms he’s part of the match now… and Kane takes matters into his own hands as he grabs Marella by the head… and launches him over the top rope! Marella hits the mat hard, but Vito and Nunzio make a comeback, clubbing Kane from behind… but here comes Funaki and Jimmy… diving crossbody from Jimmy takes both he and Vito over the top rope… while a CRANE KICK from Funaki sends Nunzio through the ropes to the floor! Now it’s Kane alone in the ring with Santino, and with Kane down on one knee, Santino thinks he has a chance to win as he lines Kane up… but when he moves in, Kane slaps a goozle on him… then takes him up… for an emphatic CHOKESLAM! Marella is planted, and Kane drops down to get the easy 1… 2… 3.

Winners: Kane and The Asian ******** @ 04.47

Another dominant display from Kane as he keeps up the momentum of his recent winning streak, leaving The F.B.I. in an absolute wreck for the second time in three weeks. With a sick smile on his face, Kane sets the corners of the ring up in flames, then after Funaki and Jimmy offer him a thank you, Kane departs the ring, a sinister laugh ringing out as we head to a commercial.

*Commercial*

We're welcomed back by the sight of The Extremists, the trio of Tommy Dreamer, Sabu and The Sandman just casually hanging around, none of them scheduled to compete tonight. Sandman chugs down a beer and tosses the can over his shoulder, the camera following the trajectory of the can until it lands on the concrete... right at the feet of two men. The camera pans up... to reveal the two men are Jonathan Coachman and Montel Vontavious Porter. 'Coach' looks down with disgust at the can, before he takes a few steps forward...


Jonathan Coachman: Excuse me gentlemen, I'd like a word with you.

The dishevelled looking trio turn and face 'Coach' and 'MVP', with Dreamer looking Coachman up and down and having a quick laugh to himself...

Tommy Dreamer: We're listenin'.

Jonathan Coachman: It seems you three are under the impression that you insult me, make fun of me and spit beer in my face whenever you want and get away with it. You did to me when I was Interim General Manager, and you did to me again last week. And I'm not puttin' up with it anymore.

As 'Coach' pauses, Sandman snaps open another can of beer, causing Coachman to jump a little bit with a look of trepidation on his face...

Jonathan Coachman: So I'm here to challenge you three to a match at Judgment Day. A Six Man Tag Team Match between you three... and the team I'm currently putting together.

Dreamer turns to Sandman and Sabu, and while he gets a shrug of the shoulders from Sabu, Sandman is too busy drinking and intimidating 'Coach' to respond...

Tommy Dreamer: Well, that depends... who's on this team of yours?

'MVP' adjusts the cuffs of his suit and his tie, clearly knowing his name is about to be mentioned...

Jonathan Coachman: So far I have Montel here, and I'm pretty sure that sooner or later I'll talk King Booker into joining too.

Tommy Dreamer: Who's the third guy?

'Coach' snorts, clearly not intent on giving that information away just now...

Jonathan Coachman: That... is somethin' you don't need to know right now. You'll find out in plenty of time. So... what's it gonna be? Do you accept our challenge?

Once again Dreamer turns to look at Sabu and Sandman, and this time both men slowly nod in agreement...

Tommy Dreamer: Yeah. Yeah, alright. We're in.

A knowing smirk crosses Coachman's face, clearly very pleased with that answer...

Jonathan Coachman: I knew you would be. Let's go Montel, we don't need to be associated with these people any longer. Oh... and clean up this mess.

As Coachman turns his back on the three and makes to leave, Sandman draws back his keno stick and gets ready to swing, only for Dreamer to grab the stick, saving 'Coach'. A wry smile is on Dreamer's face as he watches 'Coach' and 'MVP' leave, and he pats Sandman on the shoulder and says “Save it for Judgment Day”, a comment that draws confident smiles from all three men as we head into a video.

*Video Package*

Our video opens at the King of the Ring ’96, where ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin stands victorious, delivering the interview that launched his main event career…

Narrator: It’s a night where future legends make their mark...

“AUSTIN 3:16 SAYS I JUST WHIPPED YOUR ASS!”

We now head back to King of the Ring ’93, where Bret Hart puts Bam Bam Bigelow away with the winning victory roll...

Narrator: A night where icons are created…

“I’M THE BEST THERE IS, THE BEST THERE WAS, AND THE BEST THERE EVER WILL BE!”

King of the Ring ’01, where Edge puts Kurt Angle down with the Edgecution then crawls into the pin to get an emotional victory…

Narrator: A night when the stars of tomorrow shine bright...

“WELCOME TO THE ERA OF AWESOMENESS!”

And we now go to last year’s tournament final, where Booker T grabs the win over Bobby Lashley…

Narrator: A night to crown… a new king.

“BOW DOWN BEFORE YOUR KING!”

We now see flashing images of some of this year’s contenders, starting with Jeff Hardy, Montel Vontavious Porter, CM Punk and Matt Hardy…

Narrator: And this year, live on NBC, the WWE King of the Ring returns! It’s the one night Saturday Night’s Main Event spectacular where one man’s career is set to skyrocket!

More flashing images, this time it’s Bryan Danielson, Kenny Dykstra, Johnny Nitro and Mr. Kennedy…

Narrator: Eight men will battle to join the most exclusive of WWE clubs. Who will take King Booker’s crown and become the 2007 King of the Ring!?

Another round of flashing images, this time of former winners such as Steve Austin, Owen Hart, Edge, Bret Hart and King Booker…

Narrator: The King is dead…

More clips from last year, this time from Booker’s coronation ceremony, then a quick shot of him close to tears after his victory to clinch the World Heavyweight Championship…

“ALL HAIL KING BOO-KAH!”

”Long live… the King.”



"SATURDAY NIGHT’S MAIN EVENT – THREE HOUR KING OF THE RING SPECIAL – JUNE 2ND - LIVE ON NBC!"

*End Video Package*

We go back to see our announce team, who look rather more cheerful this time than the last time we saw them...

Michael Cole: Yes folks, the King of the Ring tournament is back, and it kicks off this Monday night on Raw with the first matches of the qualifying round. Thirty two men will enter the tournament, you win your qualifying match, you're through to the Sweet Sixteen round, you win that match, you're goin' to Saturday Night's Main Event.

John Bradshaw Layfield: And it was a SmackDown guy who won it last year, King Booker took the crown, and I've got a feelin' it's gonna be the same story this year.

Michael Cole: We've certainly got some great talent lined up in both halves of the draw. We already know the sixteen men entered from Monday Night Raw, some big names including the Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra, Jeff Hardy, and the WWE Hall of Famer, Jerry 'The King' Lawler!

Tazz: Man, if Lawler's in it then maybe I shoulda entered too! But seriously, some big names from Raw, but we've got a ton o' talent here on SmackDown entered, and it's only gonna get better with our final four entrants bein' announced.

Michael Cole: Oh absolutely. Rounding off the SmackDown side of things, we've got two men we've already seen in action tonight, Shannon Moore and Jimmy Wang Yang, we've got a second member of The Extremists in Sabu, and get this, the final entrant from Friday Night SmackDown... noneother than the man who could end this evening as World Heavyweight Champion, Mr. Kennedy!

John Bradshaw Layfield: I talked with Kennedy earlier today, he said he wanted to be the first man in WWE history to win the World Heavyweight Championship and then crown that achievement by becomin' King of the Ring. And if anybody can do it, it's Kennedy.

Michael Cole: Well there ya' have it folks, all thirty two names have been revealed, and now we can bring you a bit of a Friday Night SmackDown exclusive. Earlier today the brackets for the tournament were drawn up, and right now, we can reveal the Raw half of the draw...

The following graphic now appears on the screen, with the commentary team talking over it...

Harry Smith vs. Kenny Dykstra
Lance Cade vs. Nick Dinsmore

Chris Masters vs. Jerry Lawler
CM Punk vs. Trevor Murdoch

Carlito vs. Mike Knox
Shelton Benjamin vs. Super Crazy

Hardcore Holly vs. Jeff Hardy
Charlie Haas vs. Tyson Kidd

Michael Cole: So what d'ya make of that guys? Some really interesting matches there.

Tazz: No doubt about it, Cole. Jeff Hardy’s in for a real test against Hardcore Holly, and Lawler ain’t got it easy against Chris Masters. You look at that bracket, and it’s full of young, hungry talent lookin’ for their big break. Definitely gonna be a competitive half of the draw.

Michael Cole: And of course, here’s the SmackDown side of things...

And now the SmackDown bracket appears on the screen...

King Booker vs. Tommy Dreamer
Jimmy Wang Yang vs. Mr. Kennedy

Matt Hardy vs. William Regal
Kane vs. Finlay

Gregory Helms vs. Shannon Moore
Brian Kendrick vs. Paul London

Bryan Danielson vs. Santino Marella
Montel Vontavious Porter vs. Sabu

Michael Cole: ‘JBL’, you gotta be excited by that. Some really good lookin’ matches comin’ up in the next few weeks here on SmackDown.

John Bradshaw Layfield: The two that stand out to me straight away are Kane against Finlay and the fact that The Hooligans have been drawn against each other! London and Kendrick goin’ at it, I can’t wait to see that one!

Tazz: And also we’ve got King Booker kickin’ off the defence of his crown against Tommy Dreamer. Should be a great tournament, I’m excited already! I can’t wait for it to get underway!

Michael Cole: Lemme remind you folks, it all starts this Monday night on Raw, the night after Backlash.

After a few seconds of silence...

”KEN – NAH – DAY!”

*TURN UP THE TROUBLE...*

A strong level of heat as Mr. Kennedy makes his entrance, the smirk and swagger that he always has in big effect tonight as Kennedy looks confident ahead of his title opportunity...


Michael Cole: But right now folks, it's time for our main event. The World Heavyweight Championship is on the line as that man, Mr. Kennedy, challenges the champion, Batista. It's our main event, and you won't wanna miss it when SmackDown returns!

*Commercial*

As soon as we're back...

*I WALK ALONE...*

The roar is absolutely deafening as the World Heavyweight Champion Batista steps out, slapping his chest, working the crowd into a frenzy. After taking a few moments to soak in the special atmosphere from the London crowd, 'The Animal' crouches down and sets off his always impressive pyro display, before he heads for the ring...


Michael Cole: London, England has been loud all night, but it turns up a notch when Batista's involved! Here comes 'The Animal'! The World Heavyweight Champion, a man who is determined to see off the threat of Kennedy tonight and go on to Judgment Day for another title defence.

John Bradshaw Layfield: It ain't gonna happen, Michael. This is Kennedy's night, this is Kennedy's moment, and he ain't gonna let anythin' stop 'im from grabbin' it. The only title match Batista's gonna see at Judgment Day is if Kennedy gives 'im a rematch.

Tazz: I don't think so 'JBL'. Batista looks focused, he looks ready, and more importantly, he looks pretty pissed off over all the controversy that's surrounded him recently. Kennedy might think this is his big chance, but I just think this is a chance for 'The Animal' to take out all his frustrations. Regardless of who wins, this is gonna be a helluva match...

Main Event: World Heavyweight Championship Match
World Heavyweight Champion Batista vs. Mr. Kennedy

As the bell rings, Kennedy circles the champion for a few seconds, keeping his distance, until the two finally tie up... only for Batista to shove Kennedy to the mat. Kennedy springs back up, again into the collar and elbow tie up... and once more he’s sent flying to the canvas. A third time Kennedy locks horns with ‘The Animal’, with Batista backing Kennedy into the corner. The referee steps in to call for the break, which Batista provides... only for Kennedy to swing a cheap shot... that Batista blocks... and then snaps a right hand off Kennedy’s face! Right after right lands to Kennedy’s head and midsection, before Kennedy is fired hard to the opposite corner... and then stumbles into a big back body drop! Kennedy lands just infront of the corner, picking himself up... but Batista drills him with a corner clothesline! Batista then tags Kennedy with a pair of right hands, before ‘The Animal’ goes for a big Irish whip... the force of which causes Kennedy to crash to the mat once he hits the opposite corner! Batista is in full control as he yanks Kennedy back into the corner, driving a trio of turnbuckle thrusts to the midsection before he climbs up the second rope... and starts hammering down on Kennedy with right hands! The crowd counts along as each punch lands to the forehead, all the way up to ten, before Batista drops down, and Kennedy does his best Ric Flair impression as he flops face first onto the canvas. Batista drags Kennedy up, then fires him off the ropes... into a big boot to the face! Kennedy is down and reeling, and Batista goes for the first cover of the match... 1... 2... Kennedy kicks out, and after the pin attempt, he rolls to the outside to try and recover.

Kennedy drops down to a knee on the outside, but Batista isn’t interested in giving him any time, as ‘The Animal’ heads outside and catches Kennedy unaware, smashing face first off the barricade. Kennedy stumbles away, distancing himself, before he rolls back in, with Batista following... but this time Kennedy is able to mount some offence as he lands a double axe handle to the back, then drops knees and elbows to the back, before Kennedy shoves Batista into the corner, landing right hands to the face. Batista battles back to his feet, only to be caught with a boot to the midsection, before Kennedy goes for an Irish whip across... then follows in... into a back elbow! Kennedy stumbles back, then charges again... this time into a swinging side slam! Both men are down for a few seconds, but Batista is back up first, landing right hands to the face, before he sends Kennedy off the ropes... Kennedy hangs onto the opposite side... but here comes Batista... Kennedy low bridges the top rope... and Batista crashes to the floor below! Sensing a chance to really go on the attack, Kennedy takes the fight back outside once more, rolling under the bottom rope, grabbing Batista by the head, then looking to smash him face first off the steel steps... Batista blocks it... and it’s Kennedy who tastes the steel! Kennedy stumbles into the barricade, and here comes Batista... clothesline... sends Kennedy into the fans! The crowd is going wild as the fight escalates into the stands, the referee pleading with both men to return to the ring, but dares not to count either man out. Kennedy uses the barricade to drag himself back up, with Batista hooking him up... then bringing him back into ringside with a suplex onto the floor! Kennedy cries out in pain, but with Batista back in control, there’s no rest for him as Batista scoops him up onto his shoulder... and then looks to lawndart Kennedy into the ringpost... no! Kennedy drops down behind... and he shoves Batista face first into the steel! Batista smacks the steel then hits the floor hard, and with Kennedy also dropping down to shake away the cobwebs, we head into the final commercial of the evening with both men down on the outside.

*Commercial*

And we're back, with Kennedy in control as he smacks right hand after right hand off the face of the champion in the corner, driving Batista to the canvas. 'The Animal' looks dazed and confused as Kennedy backs away, then charges in... facewash! Kennedy damn near takes Batista's head off, but he doesn't go for the cover, instead he methodically drags Batista away from the ropes and locks on a seated camel clutch, pulling back at Batista head with his hands firmly clasped under the chin of the champion. Batista tries to break the grip, but Kennedy hangs on tight, every now and then jumping up and down to drive his weight down on the lower back, before going sitting back in for the clutch to take full effect. The crowd rally behind the champion, and eventually he’s able to battle back to his feet, drilling Kennedy with elbows to the midsection in an attempt to break the hold, allowing him to then fire Kennedy off the ropes... Batista lowers his head for a back body drop... but a kick from Kennedy snaps ‘The Animal’ back up... and Kennedy strikes with a great looking enzuigiri! Batista slumps to the mat, and Kennedy shoots the half... 1... 2... Batista rolls a shoulder! Kennedy was so close, but he continues to attack, enjoying a period of dominance as he scores more near falls from an inverted DDT and then a falling neckbreaker, the challenger growing in confidence with every move he lands.

Kennedy goes back to work as he continues to work on the neck and body, softening Batista up with kicks to the gut against the ropes, before he turns him over and drapes Batista throat first on the second rope, pressing down against him, choking the champion. Kennedy then turns and comes off the ropes... driving the leg down on the throat, choking Batista again! Batista coughs and splutters, but Kennedy isn’t finished yet, as he holds up a finger to the crowd and says “One more!”, then comes off the ropes again... but this time Batista moves... and Kennedy crashes groin first onto the second rope! Kennedy rolls on the mat in pain, and the crowd rises as they sense a chance for Batista to make a comeback. ‘The Animal’ is back up first, rocking Kennedy with right hands in the corner, before another trio of shoulderthrusts land. Batista fires Kennedy across the ring and follows in... corner clothesline! Kennedy is fired back to the opposite corner... another corner clothesline! A third, hard Irish whip sends him back across... no! Kennedy reverses, and this time he follows in... but ‘The Animal’ explodes from the corner with a clothesline! Batista is starting to build momentum, rocking Kennedy with a scoop slam, then a suplex, before he fires Kennedy off the ropes... SPINEBUSTER... NO! Kennedy shifts the weight in mid air... TORNADO DDT! Kennedy thinks he has it won as he hooks the leg... 1... 2... Batista survives! Kennedy can’t believe it, repeatedly slapping his hand off the canvas, holding three fingers up to the ref, only to be told it was just a two.

Sensing the end could be near, it’s a cocky and arrogant Kennedy who takes his time heading outside, then climbing to the top rope, and with Batista is perfect position, Kennedy flies... KENTON BOMB... NOBODY HOME! Batista rolls to safety, leaving Kennedy to crash to the mat, and once again Batista starts a comeback, twice knocking Kennedy down with clotheslines, before he drives Kennedy to the corner. An Irish whip sends Kennedy across... but Kennedy tries to elevate himself over Batista... Batista catches him! Kennedy is in a world of trouble... as Batista hits a RUNNING POWERSLAM! Here’s the cover... 1... 2... Kennedy rolls a shoulder! The crowd is on their feet as Batista stays on the attack, smacking Kennedy with more right hands, then boots to the midsection, before he fires him off the ropes... into a MASSIVE SPINEBUSTER! Kennedy is planted once again, and now Batista is on his feet, shaking the ropes, before he gives the fans the thumbs up... then thumbs down! Batista drags Kennedy up... then yanks him in... ready for the BATISTA BOMB... NO! Kennedy counters... and scores the MIC CHECK! Holy shit, we’ve got a new champion... 1... 2... 3... NO! Batista rolls the shoulder before the three count, Kennedy can’t believe it! Convinced he had it won, Kennedy grabs the referee by the shirt, furious, demanding to know why it wasn’t three. After getting no answer that satisfies him, Kennedy shoves the ref away and turns back to Batista, waiting for the champion to rise, stalking his prey, lining him up then moving in... for a SECOND MIC CHECK... NO! Batista shoves Kennedy into the ropes... then absolutely levels him with the SPEAR! Batista scores the spear, and now he drapes an arm across Kennedy’s chest... 1... 2... 3... NO! Kennedy kicks out! Kennedy survives! The crowd are as shocked as ‘The Animal’ as Kennedy stays in the match, and now it’s Batista who turns to the ref for answers but doesn’t get them. Seeking to finally end things, Batista drags Kennedy up... then pulls him in... but before he can go for the BATISTA BOMB, Kennedy fights free, smacks Batista with a few right hands, then tries to pick Batista up for the ROLLING FIREMAN’S CARRY SLAM... NO! Batista drops down the back, turns Kennedy... kicks him in the midsection... then pulls him in... and takes him up in the air... BATISTA BO- WAIT... EDGE HAS SLID UNDER THE BOTTOM ROPE... SPEAR! A SPEAR TO BATISTA! Edge cuts right through Batista, causing him to drop Kennedy mid move, and the referee has no choice but to call for the bell!

Winner: Via Disqualification, Batista @ 15.28

What the hell!? It's Edge! Edge is here, and he's just interrupted tonight's main event! The crowd boo heavily as Edge looks down at both Batista and Kennedy, the two participants in the match crumpled in a heap on the canvas, while Edge stands over them, tearing at his hair like a mad man. Edge now crouches in the corner, waving his hand up and down, clawing at his hair, calling for someone to rise... and it's Mr. Kennedy who makes it back to his feet first... SPEAR! ANOTHER SPEAR, THIS TIME TO KENNEDY! Edge has just laid out champion and challenger, much to the disgust of the crowd...


Michael Cole: What the hell is this guy's problem!? What business does Edge have bein' out here!? He's lost every chance he's had at the World Heavyweight Championship, and now he's just ruined this match!

John Bradshaw Layfield: Can ya' blame 'im!? The guy shoulda been champion at WrestleMania, he's been screwed not once but twice outta a rematch!

Tazz: Aw that's B.S. and you know it! He's just pissed off 'cause he can't get the job done without a steal chair. He don't deserve to be champion after what he's done these last few weeks.

Michael Cole: Well the fact of the matter is, Batista is still the champion. But for the second time in two weeks, Edge is standing tall, while champion and challenger are down and out. Folks, remember to tune in for Backlash this Sunday on pay per view. And we'll see ya' next week on SmackDown, when hopefully we’ll find out what the hell Edge is thinkin’ right now.

Content with what he's done, Edge drops down and rolls under the ropes, his eyes fixed dead ahead as he walks backstage with a purpose, the fans jeering and shouting at him. Edge doesn't care though, not even realising that in the ring, Batista has come around and managed to push himself back up onto his elbows, allowing him to watch Edge leave. A determined smirk finds it's way onto Edge's face, and the camera darts back and forth between that and the look of absolute fury on the face of 'The Animal', the only sound we hear the boos of the London fans as we fade... to... black.

*End Show*




Current Card for WWE JUDGMENT DAY:
Date: May 20th, 2007

Location: iPayOne Center; San Diego, California

United States Championship Match:
United States Champion Matt Hardy vs. The Miz

WWE Tag Team Championships Match:
WWE Tag Team Champions The Hooligans vs. The New Breed

Last Man Standing Match:
Chavo Guerrero vs. Rey Mysterio

Six Man Tag Team Match:
The Extremists vs. Montel Vontavious Porter, ??? and ???


 
#262 · (Edited)
~WWE BACKLASH~
April 29th, 2007
FedEx Forum; Memphis, Tennessee








WWE Championship Match:
WWE Champion Rob Van Dam vs. John Cena

It was at WrestleMania XXIII where Rob Van Dam finally lived up to the high standards set throughout his career by becoming WWE Champion on the grandest stage of them all. Unlike his previous title win back at One Night Stand 2006, this title win was without controversy, a performance that left fans marvelling at the skills and determination shown by Van Dam as he overcame Shawn Michaels and Triple H in a Triple Threat Match. But since that night, 'RVD' has found himself trying to establish what kind of champion he plans on being. Never one to back down from a challenge, Van Dam has vowed to put the title on the line against anybody who steps up to face him, determined to be remembered as one of the most fighting champions in WWE history. And as far as Monday Night Raw is concerned, 'RVD' knows full well that there's no bigger challenger... than John Cena.

The night after WrestleMania, Cena marched down to the ring, interrupting Van Dam's victory speech and respectfully challenged the new champion to the rematch he never received after losing the title back at Raw: Night of Champion. Determined to live up to his words, Van Dam accepted, and even offered to defend the title that very night... until Mr. McMahon and his henchman, Bobby Lashley got involved. Using the excuse that it was “best for business”, McMahon instead forced Cena to earn a title shot in a WrestleMania rematch with Lashley, the winner to face Van Dam at Backlash. Cena prevailed that night, but it appears that the pressure and desire to get his title reign off to as strong a start as possible may be starting to get to the WWE Champion. He and Cena have nearly came to blows, and the whispers around the Raw locker room are that the pressure is starting to get to 'RVD', an opinion furthered by his defeat to Kenny Dykstra last Monday night. Will Cena take advantage and get back what was stolen from him two months ago? Can Van Dam handle the heat and prove his journey to the WWE Championship at WrestleMania was only the beginning of a title reign for the ages? And just what do Mr. McMahon and Bobby Lashley have in store for champion and challenger?




No Holds Barred Match:
Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H

For the last decade, Shawn Michaels and Triple H have seen plenty of ups and down in their relationship with each other. From the 1997 creation of D-Generation X, to Michaels departure from the WWE due to injury, to Triple H's rise to the top, to Michaels' return and the wars between the two, wars that ultimately led to a D-X reunion, and then, those few months ago at Raw: Night of Champions, to where it all fell apart once again, 'The Game' and 'The Heartbreak Kid' have certainly built up a history full of heartache and triumph. But now, at Backlash, it all comes to a head as Triple H and Michaels prepare for what will be their 'Final Battle', a No Holds Barred Match that will settle the score, once and for all.

Since he stabbed his best friend in the back to become WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels has undergone a metamorphosis from the former fun loving fan favourite to the dark, soulless being we see today. Believing he has God in his corner, Michaels feels like it is his destiny that brought him the WWE Championship, only to have it taken away again, a well laid out path that has hellbent on ending the career of 'The Game'. From his shocking words with regards to Triple H's family, to his strange beliefs, Michaels is a shadow of his former self, a former self that nobody knows better than 'The Game'. After being friends with Michaels for so long, Triple H is determined that at Backlash, he can finally be the man to beat some sense back into 'The Heartbreak Kid', hoping that by breaking his body, he can break the grip that his religious beliefs have over Michaels. For 'The Game', Backlash is not only about revenge for Michaels' actions, is about clinging onto that glimmer of hope that somewhere deep inside still lives the old Shawn Michaels. Can Triple H be the one to release his former friend? Or is Shawn Michaels' faith rooted too deep inside, driving him on a path of destruction, one that has already ended D-Generation X forever?




Intercontinental Championship Match:
Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra vs. Carlito

What started out as a feud over the prestigious Intercontinental Championship has descended into a bitter, personal rivalry fuelled by deceit and betrayal... one that has Carlito determined to mend a broken heart y grabbing the gold. It was at WrestleMania XXIII where the world was shocked by the actions of Carlito's then girlfriend, Torrie Wilson. In the run up to the Intercontinental Title Match, Dykstra had been nothing but insulting and disrespectful to Torrie, a tactic which clearly had 'Lito riled up ahead of the match. Seeking to defend his girlfriend's honour, Carlito battered Dykstra from pillar to post, and was all but assured of victory... until Torrie executed the double cross felt around the world, spitting apple in Carlito's face, allowing Dykstra to grab the win and save his title. From that night on, Torrie and Kenny have been inseparable, looking to establish themselves as the new power couple on Raw. After a teaming up with Mickie James to beat Kenny and Torrie in a Mixed Tag Team Match, 'Lito has earned himself another opportunity at the gold... but this time he has the fire of his betrayal to to drive him to victory. With Torrie in his corner, can Dykstra survive the onslaught headed his way and retain his title? Or will Carlito become the new Intercontinental Champion, and in the process make Kenny and Torrie well and truly feel the Backlash?



World Tag Team Championships Match:
World Tag Team Champions The World’s Greatest Tag Team vs. The Straight Edge Saints

For months, Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas have been on a quest to re-establish the craft of tag team wrestling in the WWE, and in the process prove that the World's Greatest Tag Team isn't just a arrogant name they gave themselves. BY becoming champions and then beating SmackDown's WWE Tag Team Champions, The Hooligans, at WrestleMania, Haas and Benjamin have certainly gone a long way to proving themselves. But with the tag division on Raw in the midsts of a revival, the challengers are starting to line up, and the first team to take a shot at the gold are The Straight Edge Saints, CM Punk and Nick Dinsmore. After winning a Four Corners Match on Raw a few weeks ago, Punk and Dinsmore have been building momentum ahead of their title opportunity, with a strong win over The ******* Wrecking Crew and then Punk's great performance to beat Benjamin in singles action. For Punk and Dinsmore, it's a young team's first ever shot at glory, while for Haas and Benjamin, it's another chance to show exactly why they call themselves 'the world's greatest'.



Money in the Bank Match:
Mr. Money in the Bank Randy Orton vs. Jeff Hardy

Back in January, Jeff Hardy was Intercontinental Champion and headed to the Royal Rumble to defend his gold against Randy Orton's then apprentice, Kenny Dykstra. That was until Dykstra, with Orton's encouragement ringing in his ears, attacked Hardy before the match with a vicious one man con-chair-to. It was a miracle that Hardy even made it out to the ring to take part in the match, and it came as no surprise when Dykstra emerged victorious. When Hardy returned from a spell on the sidelines, Dykstra and Orton where his targets, but when Hardy attacked Dykstra during an Orton match, a distraction which cost Orton the victory, 'The Legend Killer' set his sights on Jeff. In the run up to WrestleMania, both men qualified for the Money in the Bank Ladder Match, and had several run ins and confrontations on Monday Night Raw. The rivalry continued into WrestleMania XXIII, the pair hammering each other, but ultimately it was Orton who would grab the briefcase, earning himself a title shot at any point over the next twelve months. But after a defeat to Rob Van Dam, Orton was ordered by Linda McMahon to defend the briefcase at Backlash, giving Hardy a second chance at glory. It's one of the most sought after possessions in the WWE, a contract guaranteeing a title shot at any time and any place... but just who is going to leave Backlash able to call themselves 'Mr. Money in the Bank'?



Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match:
Women’s Champion Mickie James vs. Beth Phoenix vs. Victoria

Over the past few months, nobody can accuse Mickie James of being anything less than a fighting Women's Champion. Having spent much of the first few months of the year battling Victoria, James then became embroiled in a very personal rivalry with her former best friend Beth Phoenix. Time and time again, Mickie overcame the odds to defend the title, seeing off the two more powerful opponents. But now, Mickie face both Beth and Victoria in a Triple Threat Match, a match many feel will prove too much for James to overcome. It was of course Victoria who brought Beth back to Monday Night Raw, with 'The Glamazon' hungry to avenge an incident many years earlier when she and Mickie were both aspiring WWE divas. At WrestleMania, Mickie saw off Beth in singles action, but with this one shaping up to be nothing more than a Handicap Match, it seems like Mickie's title reign is in jeopardy. The only hope for the champion comes from the recent troubles between Beth and Victoria. After arguing over who would be the one to take the title, the pair then clashed again during a Tag Team Match against Mickie and Candice Michelle, costing them the match. While the odds are firmly against the champion, nobody would be surprised to see Mickie defy them one more time, bringing an end to her saga against Victoria and Beth in the process.



Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match:
The Hart Legacy vs. Johnny Nitro, Chris Masters and Melina

2007 has been a pretty torrid year for Nitro, Masters and Melina. While as individuals they've managed to record rare victories, as a unit, Nitro and Masters have lost every Tag Team Match they've been involved in. The Hart Legacy meanwhile have enjoyed a relative amount of success in their short time as members of the Raw roster, impressive everyone with their combination of speed and power, and picking up important wins over established teams such as The ******* Wrecking Crew. During the four team battle that saw The Straight Edge Saints earn the right to challenge The World's Greatest Tag Team tonight, Tyson Kidd and Harry Smith clashed on several occasions with Masters and Nitro, and even Melina and Natalya Niedhart mixed it up at ringside. It seems those confrontations have lit a spark under Nitro, Masters and Melina, with Melina beating Natalya and Masters overcoming Smith in singles competition. At Backlash, all six step into the ring for a Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match, a chance for Nitro and Masters to finally show they can win as a team, while The Hart Legacy are no doubt out to grab another massive win in their young WWE careers.

---------

Prediction Template:

WWE Championship Match:
WWE Champion Rob Van Dam vs. John Cena

No Holds Barred Match:
Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H

Intercontinental Championship Match:
Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra vs. Carlito

World Tag Team Championships Match:
World Tag Team Champions The World’s Greatest Tag Team vs. The Straight Edge Saints

Money in the Bank Match:
Mr. Money in the Bank Randy Orton vs. Jeff Hardy

Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match:
Women’s Champion Mickie James vs. Beth Phoenix vs. Victoria

Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match:
The Hart Legacy vs. Johnny Nitro, Chris Masters and Melina

Bonus Questions:

What will be the match order?
How many championships will change hands?
Who will take the fall in the Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match?
Will there be any surprise appearances (Not counting the McMahon Family or Bobby Lashley)? If yes, then by who?
What will be the longest match?
What will be the shortest match?
Will there be any blood shed? If so, which match(es)?



 
#269 ·
Prediction Template:

7. WWE Championship Match:
WWE Champion Rob Van Dam vs. John Cena

Very interesting one to call purely because of the Lashley factor. I don’t think you’ll go with a DQ finish so I’m going for Van Dam to win it, although I expect an awful lot of shenanigans to come with it. Really expected this to be a Triple Threat so kudos for going with something different, excited to see what route you take.


6. No Holds Barred Match:
Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H

By far the most anticipated match on the card and the best booked feud going right now on Raw, perhaps in the entire thread. For me it HAS to be Michaels, he’s just been too golden for you to have him lose here off the back of a title loss at Mania. I agree with Wolfy I think it was, in saying that a Van Dam/HBK match/one on one feud would be awesome, perhaps come Summerslam.


2. Intercontinental Championship Match:
Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra vs. Carlito

Dykstra all the way here. Only just won the gold, don’t see that changing as he’s certainly growing in stature in this thread, Torrie by his side should be the difference maker in this one. Carlito to look strong in defeat. Really dug this feud the last few weeks, I’m sure the pay off will deliver.

5. World Tag Team Championships Match:
World Tag Team Champions The World’s Greatest Tag Team
vs. The Straight Edge Saints

WGTT for now. I think the SES time will come soon enough but this time around, Benji and Haas pull one out the bag.


4. Money in the Bank Match:
Mr. Money in the Bank Randy Orton vs. Jeff Hardy

For me this hasn’t quite generated into what I thought it would. I really expected these two to be a highlight of Raw and enter a really engaging feud but it’s been a little bit flat for me with nothing too major going down. I know it’s a bit tough when Michaels/Hunter is the blood feud but I think this has been made a little too soft, the banning of the briefcase as a weapon may’ve hindered it a tad. Orton to retain with Hardy putting up one hell of a fight, that briefcase ruling perhaps being forgotten about by Randall here to steal it ;).


3. Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match:
Women’s Champion Mickie James vs. Beth Phoenix vs. Victoria

Mickie to take advantage of a disagreement, writes itself you would think, I say think lol.


1. Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match:
The Hart Legacy vs. Johnny Nitro, Chris Masters and Melina

Been very surprised that Hart Legacy haven’t had any real signs of the upper hand in this feud but I guess that’ll just make 1it all the sweeter when they get the win on PPV.


Bonus Questions:

What will be the match order? Done
How many championships will change hands? None
Who will take the fall in the Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match? Victoria
Will there be any surprise appearances (Not counting the McMahon Family or Bobby Lashley)? If yes, then by who? No
What will be the longest match? HBK/Trips
What will be the shortest match? Intergender
Will there be any blood shed? If so, which match(es)? Yes, No Holds Barred

Really looking forward to it my good man, no doubts you’ll deliver as ever. Good luck.
 
#270 ·
6 - WWE Championship Match:
WWE Champion Rob Van Dam vs. John Cena

7 - No Holds Barred Match:
Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H

4 - Intercontinental Championship Match:
Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra vs. Carlito

5 - World Tag Team Championships Match:
World Tag Team Champions The World’s Greatest Tag Team vs. The Straight Edge Saints

2 - Money in the Bank Match:
Mr. Money in the Bank Randy Orton vs. Jeff Hardy

3 - Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match:
Women’s Champion Mickie James vs. Beth Phoenix vs. Victoria

1 - Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match:
The Hart Legacy vs. Johnny Nitro, Chris Masters and Melina

What will be the match order?DONE
How many championships will change hands? NONE
Who will take the fall in the Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match? VICTORIA
Will there be any surprise appearances (Not counting the McMahon Family or Bobby Lashley)? If yes, then by who? NO
What will be the longest match? HBK/HHH
What will be the shortest match? DIVAS
Will there be any blood shed? If so, which match(es)? HBK/HHH
 
#272 ·
~News, Notes and Spoilers~
(Backlash T-minus 3 hours and counting.)


There is a buzz around the Raw roster tonight as the red brand looks to continue the good feeling from their positive contribution to WrestleMania XXIII with another strong showing tonight at Backlash. It's almost a certainty that the WWE Championship Match featuring Rob Van Dam and John Cena will close the show, with Van Dam both excited and tense regarding his first ever Raw pay per view main event. Although many feel Van Dam and Cena will easily eclipse their performance at The Royal Rumble, the pressure is still on for both men to ensure Van Dam's WWE Title reign has a successful first pay per view outing. With Cena, Mr. McMahon and Bobby Lashley all involved in the build-up and all set to play a role tonight, there's certainly plenty of star power backing Van Dam. While there's an outside chance of a shock Cena victory, it's a pretty safe bet that Van Dam will build on his great display from WrestleMania with another fine performance tonight, and a victory.

It's been said that both Shawn Michaels and Triple H have played a major role in the build-up to their No Holds Barred Match tonight, and both men have been relatively pleased with the way their story has developed. Although neither man is looking to take any insane stunt to help get their match over, both feel there is a strong story to tell and have been working hard with the backstage agents to make sure that comes across. Regardless of who wins tonight, it appears that Triple H is set to step back as a regular competitor this summer to spend more times behind the scenes learning the family business. While he has no intentions of hanging up his boots just yet, 'The Game' is acutely aware that a senior management role within the company awaits him upon retirement, and is keen to get a head start in his future roll.

While the plan along for the Intercontinental Championship heading into WrestleMania was for Kenny Dykstra to retain the gold and align himself with Torrie Wilson, plans are very much still up in the air heading into Backlash. Certainly there is a strong case for Carlito to pick up a convincing victory, gaining a measure of revenge in the process. However, there is a growing feeling amongst the creative team that Dykstra has impressed so far in 2007, and given the way in which the title was passed around during the latter stages of 2006, that a long run with the gold for Dykstra would be the best thing all round. No matter the outcome, the feud seems set to continue with at least one more match. Dykstra and Carlito have both been calling for the two to engage in a Ladder Match in the future, and that could be on the cards for the War Games pay per view.

The recent resurgence in the tag division on Raw is set to be highlighted tonight with both the World Tag Team Championships and Six Person Intergender matches set to be solid parts of the undercard. As of right now, Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin are expected to retain the titles, furthering their claims as the best tag team in the WWE today, while it's almost a guarantee that The Hart Legacy will emerge victorious in their match up, further continuing the losing streak of Chris Masters and Johnny Nitro. The combination of Nitro and Masters are expected to split soon, perhaps in the upcoming WWE draft, with Masters a strong bet to head over to SmackDown.

The Women's Title Match will very much be viewed as a showcase of the division tonight, with what are considered to be the best three Divas wrestling wise competing in the match. After a late change of mind saw Mickie James retain the title over Beth Phoenix at WrestleMania XXIII, it's felt that the introduction of Victoria into the match will provide James with an easy out for losing the gold. Regardless of who leaves Backlash as champion, the James/Phoenix feud is set to come to a conclusion soon, leaving the door open for Natalya Niedhart to take her first steps towards the title. Although still a newcomer to the WWE, Niedhart's previous experience in Japan mean she has plenty of admirers backstage, and it's felt that a future Phoenix/Niedhart feud could produce some of the best matches the WWE's women's division has ever seen.

As of right now, there are no plans whatsoever for Randy Orton to lose the Money in the Bank briefcase. Despite being involved in a midcard feud with Jeff Hardy right now, Orton is expected to be a major player once again on Raw by the time War Games arrives. As for Hardy, there's been a lack of creative storylines for him lately, as it's felt he more than anyone could benefit from a move in the draft, and possibly even a major change in his character. Expect Hardy to remain in a holding pattern for much of the summer until he gets the chance to move to the blue brand.

Newcomer Claudio Cesaro has been confirmed as being backstage tonight, although as of right now there are no plans to have Cesaro involved in any angles tonight. Cesaro is however fully expected to make his debut tomorrow night on Raw. Vince McMahon was apparently very impressed with Cesaro during his try-out back in late 2006, and now with Cesaro's visa issues behind him, he could be in line for an immediate push that establishes him high up the card on Raw. If indeed Carlito does become Intercontinental Champion either tonight or at some point over the next month or so, Cesaro could be in line for a title shot by the time SummerSlam rolls around.

It has been reported that during the recent tour of the United Kingdom and Europe, Vice President of Talent Relations John Lauranitis held try-outs for several talents before the Raw and SmackDown events. Developmental contracts were offered to three of the top talents currently in the British wrestling scene, namely Stu Sanders, Drew Galloway and Sheamus O'Shaunessy. All three are scheduled to report to Ohio Valley Wrestling over the next few weeks, although there are already rumors that the trio could be promoted to Raw or SmackDown by the end of 2007. Another British signing has also been made, as after he impressed during his appearance against Randy Orton on Raw, veteran Doug Williams was offered a contract during the following evening’s SmackDown tapping. Despite having one or two commitments to tie up, Williams is scheduled to debut on the SmackDown brand soon as part of the cruiserweight division, a decision that will no doubt be pleasing to indy wrestling fans given the prospect of seeing Williams take on Bryan Danielson on national television.


---------

Prediction Template:

WWE Championship Match:
WWE Champion Rob Van Dam vs. John Cena

No Holds Barred Match:
Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H

Intercontinental Championship Match:
Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra vs. Carlito

World Tag Team Championships Match:
World Tag Team Champions The World’s Greatest Tag Team vs. The Straight Edge Saints

Money in the Bank Match:
Mr. Money in the Bank Randy Orton vs. Jeff Hardy

Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match:
Women’s Champion Mickie James vs. Beth Phoenix vs. Victoria

Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match:
The Hart Legacy vs. Johnny Nitro, Chris Masters and Melina

Bonus Questions:

What will be the match order?
How many championships will change hands?
Who will take the fall in the Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match?
Will there be any surprise appearances (Not counting the McMahon Family or Bobby Lashley)? If yes, then by who?
What will be the longest match?
What will be the shortest match?
Will there be any blood shed? If so, which match(es)?



 
#273 ·
Monday Night Raw Presents;
~WWE BACKLASH~
April 29th, 2007
FedEx Forum; Memphis, Tennessee





*Opening Video*

We fade in to see the opening fireworks display from WrestleMania XXIII, the explosions in the sky lighting up the screen in slow motion, while a slow, soft, lonesome violin is heard playing, the volume of the instrument increasing with the light of the image...

Narrator: On that night... they became heroes.

The music picks up as we see a triumphant Rob Van Dam, stood on the second rope in the corner, holding the WWE Championship high in the air to the delight of the Ford Field crowd...

Narrator: On that night... they became legends.

We now see 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin toss a can of beer John Cena's way, the pair sharing a toast in one of the most symbolic moments of the night...

Narrator: On that night... they became immortal. But now...

The image now begins to fade back to black, the violin music becoming louder and more dramatic as we cut to grainy black and footage from WrestleMania XXIII, starting with Randy Orton collapsed on the canvas, holding the Money in the Bank briefcase tightly against his torso...

Narrator: Heroic acts mean nothing.

We see Carlito in the ring, dejected look on his face as we then cut to see a jubilant Kenny Dykstra and Torrie Wilson mocking ‘Lito from the entrance way...

Narrator: Legendary moments begin to fade.

An emotional Ric Flair, tears streaming down his face, blows a kiss good bye to the fans before he heads backstage...

Narrator: And the immortal look human once again.

The screen again fades to black, then we cut to the cold, dark eyes of Shawn Michaels, staring blankly into the camera, his face the only light on the screen beneath the black cowboy hat that is pulled down low over his brow, the frame slowly moving from one side of his face across to the other...

Narrator: WrestleMania is in the past... and now we all face...

Michaels closes his eyes, then opens them at the exact moment we hear the words...

Narrator: The Backlash!

Suddenly the official theme tune of tonight's event, 'There and Back Again' by Daughtry kicks in, with rapid fire images from the last few weeks of Raw, starting with the tense staredown between Cena and ‘RVD’ that nearly led to blows last Monday...

”TAKE, TAKE YOUR TIME. SMELL THE ROSES, BUT STEAL THE VINES.”

John Cena: You got to go to WrestleMania and challenge for the WWE Championship. You... got my rematch, Rob.

Rob Van Dam: Monday Night Raw... this is my show now. This is my house. And I'll take on any challenge.

Triple H stands tall in the ring, an intense look in his eyes as he raises his sledgehammer high in the air then brings it crashing down on Lance Cade’s skull, the shot then changing to see the cold, soulless eyes of Shawn Michaels watching it all unfold…

”DON’T WAIT FOR THE HANDS OF TIME... TO SECOND GUESS AND CHANGE YOUR MIND.”

Shawn Michaels: YOU... Triple H... must suffer MY... backlash.

Triple H: One final battle, huh Shawn? That’s what you want? YOU’RE ON!

The night after WrestleMania, where Randy Orton smashes his Money in the Bank briefcase off Jeff Hardy’s skull then slides into last Monday where Orton has a defenceless Doug Williams lined up, only for Hardy to make the save…

”AND SHINE. HERE’S YOUR MOMENT TO SHINE. SHINE...”

Jeff Hardy: You might not think there’s a lawyer or court that can take that briefcase away from you… but I’m pretty sure you put it on the line… I’ll take it away from you.

Randy Orton: If I decide that after I beat Jeff Hardy at Backlash, I want to cash in my Money in the Bank contract… then I’ll be ready.

The great match between Shelton Benjamin and CM Punk comes to a conclusion as Punk takes Benjamin up onto his shoulders and hammers him with the GTS…

”LAY DOWN, MY FRIEND. CLOTHES YOUR EYES, BREATHE IN...”

CM Punk: It’s clobberin’ time!

Charlie Haas: And when we’re done with Punk and Dinsmore… they’re gonna need somethin’ a lot stronger than booze to take away the pain.

Carlito recovers from a cheap shot from Kenny Dykstra during an e[isode of Carlito’s Cabanna, prompting ‘Lito to take a bite of his apple and spit it in Dykstra’s direction, only for Kenny to pull Torrie Wilson into the line of fire…

”AND I’LL TAKE YOU THERE AND BACK AGAIN.”

Kenny Dykstra: Total... domination... at the hands of 'The Future Hall of Famer'... Kenny Dykstra.

Carlito: 'Dis Sunday... Carlito won't miss... and 'dis Intercontinental Championship is mine. Now 'dat's cool!

We now see footage of the brawls Bobby Lashley has had with Cena and Van Dam lately, ending with Cena forcing Lashley to tap out to the STFU…

”NO MORE QUESTIONS WHY. I’M NOT SO SURPRISED.”

John Cena: You and me at Backlash, it’s what we both want, it’s what these people want, and I’m damn sure gonna make it happen!

Rob Van Dam: You’re the poster boy. You’re the guy. And at WrestleMania, you backed it up. So if I’m gonna prove myself as champion, I gotta start knockin’ off names like you.

Mr. McMahon: Quite frankly, the only thing I can think of right now that's worse than Rob Van Dam as WWE Champion... is John Cena as WWE Champion.

And our video comes to an end on the image of Michaels and ‘The Game’ stood face to face, with Michaels simply tipping his cowboy hat in Triple H’s direction before he turns and leaves…

”WHY YOU HAVE BEEN THERE AND BACK AGAIN!”

Triple H: This Sunday, Backlash... your ass is mine!

Shawn Michaels: Thy Backlash shall be felt…

The music comes to a stop, and just like we’ve seen in recent weeks, the lasting image is that of the cold eyes of Michaels, piercing the screen, before he slowly closes them and the screen fades to black.

Narrator: And now, Monday Night Raw presents... WWE BACKLASH!!


We then head into the arena to be greeted by a very impressive fireworks display, the raucous crowd on their feet making a ton of noise, adding to the big time atmosphere in the building. After the camera buzzes around the arena, taking in some of the more colourful signs the fans have brought with them, we quickly zoom over to the announce desk to be welcome by tonight’s commentary team, Hall of Famers Jim Ross and Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler, and ‘The Voice of Extreme’, Joey Styles…

Jim Ross: WrestleMania XXIII is firmly in the rearview mirror. The lights, the glamour, the pomp and pageantry, it’s all a distant memory, as tonight, live from the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee, we all will feel… the backlash! Hello everyone, I’m ‘Good ‘Ol J.R.’, Jim Ross, alongside me as always are Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler and Joey Styles, welcoming you to Monday Night Raw’s first pay per view of 2007, WWE Backlash!

Joey Styles: And what a night it’s gonna be. A huge card lined up tonight, featuring two incredible main events, and four championships up for grabs. And it’s all takin’ place in Lawler Country!

Jerry Lawler: Well I gotta admit, I love bein’ back here in Memphis, Tennessee, my hometown! And I can’t imagine any town better suited to host such a huge night, especially considerin’ the two main events we’ve got lined up. I just can’t decide what match I’m more excited to see!

Joey Styles: Well all eyes will of course be on the WWE Championship Match. Rob Van Dam, the man crowned champion at WrestleMania, a champion seeking to prove he belongs in the conversation when the big hitters of Raw are being discussed, takes on John Cena.

Jim Ross: Van Dam was looking for a big name challenge to get his title reign off an runnin', and they don't come any bigger than John Cena, especially not with the WWE Championship at stake. But what about our second main event tonight? The most personal, hate fuelled rivalry in WWE history. Triple H and Shawn Michaels, No Holds Barred, in a match being dubbed 'The Final Battle'.

Jerry Lawler: Triple H and Shawn Michaels have had some brutal matches over the years, but I don't think anythin' we've seen in the past is gonna come close to what we're gonna see tonight. It's gonna be an absolute war, with neither guy holdin' anythin' back.

Joey Styles: Well not only do we have our two main events, but there's three other titles on the line as the Intercontinental, Tag Team and Women's Championships all being defended, and let's not forgot, the Money in the Bank briefcase is up for grabs too. And of course, we're joined by our Spanish broadcast colleagues, Hugo Savinovich and Carlos Cabrera. Take it away, guys!

We now cut to the Spanish broadcast desk where an animated and excited Hugo and Carlos welcome their viewers to the show. Once they've had their say, we have a few seconds of silence, until we cut to the ring to see Lillian Garcia is ready and waiting to get things going...

*Bell Rings*


Lillian Garcia: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

”I SPIT IN 'DA FACE... OF PEOPLE WHO DON'T WANT TO BE COOL...”

*COOL...*


The first entrance of the evening draws a massive cheer for the always popular Carlito, who steps out wearing a blue t-shirt and orange trunks. The usual jovial look on Carlito’s face is instead replaced with a stern look of focus and determination, although of course ‘Lito still has his trusty apple in his hand, tossing it up in the air and catching it a few times as he heads down the aisle...

Lillian Garcia: Introducing first, he is the challenger. From San Juan, Puerto Rico, weighing in at 220lbs... CARRRRLLLLLIIITTTTOOOOOOOO!

'Lito nips up the steel steps and enters the ring, heading to the far away corner where he climbs up to the second rope to give a few words to the fans. Hoping back down, Carlito carefully places his apple under the turnbuckle, before he snatches off his t-shirt and starts to pace the ring...

Joey Styles: What a way to kick things off, a rematch from WrestleMania XXIII with the Intercontinental Championship on the line. Carlito went into Ford Field a hungry, determined challenger, seeking to avenge the insults of Kenny Dykstra directed at Carlito's then girlfriend, Torrie Wilson.

Jim Ross: And what a jezebel she turned out to be! Torrie turned her back on poor 'Lito, she double crossed him by spittin' the apple in the eye, and Dykstra took advantage to retain the gold.

Jerry Lawler: Well I know how disappointed and devastated Carlito was with what happened at WrestleMania. Not only did he lose the match, he lost his girl too. But I'm sure he's gonna use that hurt and that pain as a lil' extra motivation here tonight. I think young Kenny could be in for a rude awakening right here.

*IN THE MIDDLE OF IT NOW...*

And with the crowd still pumped up, it's a loud chorus of boos that welcome Kenny Dykstra and Torrie Wilson into the arena. The two walk arm in arm, with Dykstra looking as smug as always with his “Future. Now.” t-shirt on, sunglasses over his eyes, and of course the Intercontinental Championship glimmering around his waist, while Torrie looks sultry in all black attire...


Lillian Garcia: And introducing his opponent. Being accompanied down the aisle by Torrie Wilson. From Worcester, Massachusetts. Weighing in at 230 pounds, he is the WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION... KENNY DYYYKKKSSSSTTRRAAAAAAA!

Dykstra and Wilson pose at the entrance way, before Torrie plants a quick kiss on Dykstra's cheek and the pair slowly head down the aisle. Cocky as ever, Dykstra pauses every now and then to point to a fan member, throwing some trash talk at them...

Joey Styles: He calls himself 'The Future Hall of Famer'. We know how cocky and how arrogant he is, but ya' gotta hand it to him, for someone so young, Dykstra certainly has an impressive list of accolades. He's a former World Tag Team Champion, and he's the youngest Intercontinental Champion in WWE history.

Jerry Lawler: And let’s not forget, he beat the WWE Champion Rob Van Dam last Monday night on Raw. I don't think anybody is ever gonna question this kid's abilities in the ring. But the fact of the matter is, the guy's attitude absolutely stinks. I really hope Carlito kicks this kid's teeth right down-

Jim Ross: Hey! Wait! Here comes Carlito!

The crowd is electric as Carlito dives through the ropes and storms up the aisle, with Torrie franticly trying to stop Dykstra smack-talking the fans and pay attention, but by the time he turns... Carlito tackles Dykstra to the concrete! The fight is on! Torrie can only look on in horror as ‘Lito mounts Kenny and starts raining down on him with wild rights and lefts, Dykstra desperately trying to cover up, until finally Carlito pushes off him and gets back up. After turning to scowl at Torrie, ‘Lito drags Dykstra up... and drives him spine first into the barricade! Referee Jack Doan pleads with Carlito to take the action into the ring to get the match started proper, and finally ‘Lito obliges as he grabs Dykstra, runs him down the aisle, then launches him under the bottom rope. The match is underway!






Intercontinental Championship Match:
Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra vs. Carlito

And as the bell rings, ‘Lito slides under the bottom rope, giving chase as Dykstra tries to scurry away to the opposite side of the ring… but Carlito grabs him by the foot… and drags Dykstra to his feet in the centre of the ring! Holding Dykstra foot in his hand, ‘Lito smiles, turning to the fans, almost seeking their approval to strike as Dykstra pleads for mercy… and ‘Lito obliges the fans as he hammers Dykstra with a CLOTHESLINE! The crowd let out a loud cheer as Dykstra crawls to the corner, but Carlito is right back on him, dragging Dykstra out, then he smashes Dykstra face first off the top turnbuckle! And again… and again… and the crowd count along… 4… 5… 6… 7… 8… 9… 10! Dykstra is on Dream Street as he staggers from the corner, and then turns back around… as ‘Lito jumps to the second rope… SPRINGBOARD BACK ELBOW! It’s all ‘Lito early on, and it only gets worse for Kenny as he’s dragged back up… then LAUNCHED OVER THE TOP ROPE!

A painful landing as Dykstra splats to the floor, with ‘Lito wasting no time in following outside, again grabbing Dykstra by the hair… and this time SMASHING HIM FACE FIRST OFF THE CANVAS! Torrie has her face in her hands as she watches Dykstra taking a beating… and it only gets worse… as CARLITO LAUNCHES DYKSTRA ACROSS THE SPANNISH ANNOUNCE DESK!!! Savinovich and Cabrera are sent sprawling from their chairs as ‘Lito dives after Kenny, hammering him with a flurry of right hands, all the frustrations of WrestleMania being taken out right here. Doan pleads with ‘Lito to take the action back into the ring, and after getting back on his feet and soaking in the cheers of the fans, ‘Lito finally does so, rolling Kenny back in. Carlito now stands over Dykstra who looks a broken man, on his hands and knees, pleading, begging for mercy… and again Carlito turns towards the fans, who bay for blood, urging Carlito to go in for the kill… only for Torrie to jump up onto the apron! Wilson pleads with her ex-boyfriend to show mercy, but all this does is distract ‘Lito… and that’s enough for Dykstra to clobber him from behind! The distraction pays off as Dykstra mounts Carlito, hammering him with right hands, then he blatantly chokes ‘Lito, the ref’s count the only thing that causes Dykstra to relent.

Feeling he now has an opening in the match, Dykstra tries to shake away the cobwebs, then he goes back to work with stomps to Carlito’s chest. Yanking ‘Lito up, Dykstra goes for an Irish whip to the corner, then races in… right into a boot to the face! ‘Lito explodes from the corner… and HITS A MASSIVE CLOTHESLINE! Dykstra stumbles back up... another clothesline knocks him down! Again Dykstra staggers back up, with 'Lito drilling him with kicks to the midsection, then a pair of big right hands that knock the champion into the corner. 'Lito now drives his shoulder into the midsection, before he goes for the Irish whip across... Dykstra hits the turnbuckle hard... and stumbles forward into a HUGE BACK BODY DROP! As soon as he lands, Dykstra rolls under the bottom rope and flops to the floor, Torrie quickly over to check on him, the champion clearly in a bad state... so much so that Dykstra starts crawling up towards the aisle, clearly rattled by the onslaught he's suffered. Carlito though has no interest in a countout win, heading after Dykstra, grabbing him by the tights and yanking Dykstra back to his feet. Quickly 'Lito hooks Dykstra up... then takes him up and down... for a SUPLEX ON THE CONCRETE!! Dykstra cries out in agony, Torrie can barely look, and the fans are loving it, roaring their approval as 'Lito gingerly gets back to his feet. Once again the referee pleads for the action to head back inside, and Carlito obliges as he drags Dykstra up... but before he can roll Dykstra back into the ring, Dykstra shoves 'Lito... KNEE FIRST INTO THE STEEL STEPS! A painful collision for 'Lito as he goes flies over the steps, both men down now on the outside.

After a few deep breaths, Dykstra is first back up, grabbing a handful of hair, allowing him to smash 'Lito face first off the canvas, before he rolls the challenger back into the ring. Dykstra gingerly follows, seeing 'Lito favour his left knee, and the young champion wastes no time in targeting it, aiming a few stomps right to the knee. Placing Carlito's left foot on the bottom rope, Kenny bounces up... and DROPS HIS WEIGHT ACROSS THE KNEE! Carlito groans in pain, but Dykstra isn't finished there... again BOUNCING UP THEN DOWN ACROSS THE KNEE! Feeling much more confident now, Dykstra allows himself a few seconds to soak in the boos of the fans, before he yanks 'Lito up, lands a pair of uppercuts that back the challenger to the ropes, then grabs Carlito by the wrist... short-arm clothesline... but Dykstra hangs on and rolls through... another short-arm clothesline... again the roll through... for a third short-arm clothesline... no! 'Lito ducks underneath the third... then unloads with a STINGING CHOP TO THE CHEST! A “Wooooo!” breaks out from the fans, and is repeated as 'Lito strikes with another three chops, before he goes for the Irish whip... and looks for a clothesline... but Dykstra ducks underneath... FALLING NECKBREAKER! Here's the first cover of the match...

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CARLITO KICKS OUT!

Looking to fully take control, Dykstra goes right back to work on the knee, aiming more stomps, then repeatedly driving his own knee into Carlito's. 'Lito is then shoved into the corner, where Dykstra lands a few shots to the midsection to keep 'Lito in check, before he hooks the left leg across the middle rope... and aims a painful kick to the back of the knee! Dykstra rears back... a second kick to the knee... causes 'Lito to collapse to the mat in pain! Sitting against the turnbuckle, Carlito grabs his knee in agony, but the sick smile on Dykstra's face shows he isn't done yet as he backs away... lines up... then charges in... FACEWASH... NO! Carlito rolls outside... and Dykstra kicks the ropes! Now it's Dykstra who suffers pain in his knee as he tries to shake the feeling back into his leg... while Carlito is back on the apron... slingshots to the top rope... SPRINGBOARD CROSSBODY... but Dykstra rolls through... and into the pinfall!

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'LITO BARELY KICKS OUT!

And Dykstra jumps right on him, a flurry of left and right forearms keeping Carlito grounded and Dykstra in the ascendency. Dykstra returns to his feet for more stomps to the knee, then he yanks Carlito up... for a textbook SHINBREAKER! The young champion is very much in control now, again revelling in the boos of the fans, before he grabs the challenger by the foot and drags him towards the corner. As Dykstra slides under the bottom rope, 'Lito sense what could be coming, and he tries desperately to fight it... but it's no use as Dykstra rears back... and SMASHES CARLITO'S KNEE OFF THE RING POST! Carlito groans in agony, but Dykstra hangs on... and AGAIN SMASHES THE KNEE OFF THE STEEL! 'Lito crawls away, grimacing in agony, while on the outside, the always cocky Dykstra has time to receive another kiss on the cheek from Torrie before he heads back in. Toying with his opponent, Dykstra shows disrespect as he slaps Carlito's head a few times, but when he drags 'Lito up, this sparks life into the challenger, with 'Lito unloading with shots to the midsection, then a big uppercut to the face, the crowd on their feet for the comeback, with 'Lito now looking for an Irish whip to the corner... but Dykstra reverses... and Carlito smacks chest first off the turnbuckle... and staggers backwards into a BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX!

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CARLITO STAYS ALIVE!

Frustration is starting to set in for the young champion, but in an attempt to wear 'Lito down, Dykstra grabs the left foot, turns 'Lito over, then sits in... for a SINGLE LEG BOSTON CRAB! Dykstra wrenches back on the knee, applying all kinds of pressure, causing Carlito to groan in agony. 'Lito reaches out, straining and stretching for the ropes, but it's no good as Dykstra has the hold locked in smack in the centre of the ring. Dykstra strains as he leans back, upping the torque, screaming “Tap! Tap!” at 'Lito, but the defiance of the man from the Caribbean is clear for all to see as slowly but surely, he starts to force himself towards the ropes. The crowd clap their hands and stomp their feet, willing Carlito on, and somehow, 'Lito reaches out... and grabs the bottom rope... only for Dykstra to drag him back to the centre of the ring! But 'Lito manages to shift his weight, now upright, hoping on one foot as Kenny holds the other... ENZIGUIRI! Out of desperation, 'Lito cracks his foot off Dykstra's skull, both men down for a few seconds until the challenger manages to limp back up. Calling for Dykstra to rise, 'Lito is ready and waiting... INVERTED ATOMIC DROP... AND THEN A HURRICANRANA! 'Lito sits in and hooks the legs...

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DYKSTRA KICKS OUT!

Looking to build some momentum, 'Lito is back on his feet first, teeing off with shots to the face, then a boot to the midsection doubles the champion over. 'Lito comes off the ropes... running knee to the face snaps Dykstra up and Carlito keeps on running... RUNNING CLOTHESLINE! Dykstra scrambles to the corner, trying to recover, but 'Lito is right on him, drilling boots to the gut, then he goes for an Irish whip across... but Dykstra reverses... and 'Lito hits the turnbuckle hard. Here comes Dykstra... but 'Lito steps aside... and Dykstra's shoulder charge... sees him go through the ropes and SMACK OFF THE STEEL! Dykstra grabs his left arm as he stumbles backwards and turns... RIGHT INTO A DDT!! Carlito crawls into the cover...

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DYKSTRA BARELY ROLLS A SHOULDER!

Carlito has his head in his hands, disbelief that he hasn't got the match won yet. Seeking a way to end things, 'Lito yanks Dykstra up and fires him off the ropes... only for Kenny to reverse it... TORRIE GRABS CARLITO BY THE FOOT! Carlito puts on the breaks and angrily shouts at Torrie... but that means he doesn't see Dykstra come from behind... JUMPING STO... NO! CARLITO GRABBED THE TOP ROPE TO SAVE HIMSELF! Not falling for the same trick that cost him at WrestleMania, Carlito sees Dykstra's head smack off the canvas, but when he stumbles back up, 'Lito ready to strike... BACKSTABBER!! Carlito gets all of it, and he hooks the near leg...

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TORRIE PLACES DYKSTRA'S FOOT ON THE ROPES!!!

Carlito thinks he's got it won, but at the last split second, the referee spots the foot on the rope and stops counting, tapping 'Lito on the shoulder and pointing to the ropes, the anguish written on the face of the challenger once he realises what's happened... and then he spots Torrie nearby... and suddenly, it all makes sense. Rolling outside, Carlito confronts Torrie, knowing it was her who put Dykstra's foot on the ropes, the crowd cheering him on, urging him to go for revenge. Torrie pleads and backs away, working her way around the ring, but 'Lito looks like a man possessed... but here comes Dykstra... to clobber 'Lito from behind! Once again Torrie plays her part, allowing Dykstra a chance to recover then strike. Quickly Dykstra rolls 'Lito back into the ring, then he nips up onto the apron and climbs upstairs... looking for the SKY HIGH LEGDROP... no! 'Lito shakes the ropes... and Dykstra has a painful landing on the top turnbuckle! And now Carlito starts to climb to the top rope, steadies himself… then SENDS DYKSTRA FLYING WITH A FRANKENSTEINER!! A breathtaking move from Carlito, and as he crawls over and drapes an arm across Kenny’s chest, it’s gotta be over…

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DYKSTRA SOMEHOW ROLLS A SHOULDER!

The crowd, just like Carlito, can’t believe it as Dykstra hangs in there. Dejected, ‘Lito takes an age to return to his feet, but when he does, the crowd rises once more, as with a look of sheer determination, Carlito waits for Kenny to rise, determined to end things right here… Dykstra staggers back to his feet… and here comes Carlito from behind… BACKSTABBER… NO! Dykstra senses ‘Lito coming, drilling him with a pair of back elbows. Dykstra goes for the Irish whip off the ropes… only for ‘Lito to jump to the second rope… SPRINGBOARD BACK ELBOW… BUT DYKSTRA COUNTERS… MID AIR JUMPING STO!! An incredible counter from Dykstra, and he hooks the leg, sure of victory…

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NO!!
CARLITO ROLLS HIS SHOULDER JUST IN TIME!!

Memphis erupts as Carlito shows an incredible level of guts to stay in the match. Dykstra can’t believe it, looking like he wants to cry, while on the outside, Torrie is furious, screaming and stomping her feet in anger… so much so that she jumps up onto the apron to protest the decision. Of course, this means the referee’s back is turned on the competitors, and Dykstra moves to take advantage of this as he heads to the corner… and UNTIES THE TURNBUCKLE PAD! Carlito is a sitting duck as Dykstra reaches down, drags him up, then runs ‘Lito to the corner… but Carlito puts a foot on the second rope, blocking it… THEN SMASHES KENNY FACE FIRST OFF THE EXPOSED TURNBUCKLE!! Torrie drops back down, looking distraught, as Dykstra’s legs are like jelly… then ‘Lito catches him from behind… BACKSTABBER! A SECOND BACKSTABBER!! It’s all over as Carlito goes for the cover…

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TORRIE DRAGS THE REFEREE FROM THE RING!!

What the…? Torrie grabs Jack Doan by the foot, drags him under the bottom rope, and once he recovers from the surprise… Doan calls for the bell!

Winner: Via Disqualification, Carlito @ 12.37
Therefore, STILL Intercontinental Champion, Kenny Dykstra


Lillian Garcia: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this contest, by way of disqualification… CARRRRLLLLLIIITTTTOOOOOOOO!

The announcement of ‘Lito as the winner draws a few cheers from the crowd, but of course, Lillian isn’t finished yet…

Lillian Garcia: However, as championships cannot change hands by way of disqualification... STILL, WWE Intercontinental Champion… KENNY DYYYKKKSSSSTTRRAAAAAAA!

And now the boos break out, with ‘Lito on his knees in the ring, head in his hands, realising what’s just happened. Carlito looks up the referee, desperate in despair, a pleading look in his eyes as he asks for another chance, a restart to the match, anything, but Doan remains defiant over throwing the match out, apologizing but confirming that the match is indeed over. Again Carlito’s head rests in his hands, while at the edge of the ring, Dykstra manages to roll outside, dropping down to his knees, but Torrie is right there, Intercontinental Title in one hand, while she tries to help Kenny back to his feet with the other. Dykstra grabs his neck and lower back in pain as he leans against Torrie, but as soon as his eyes see the gold, he quickly snatches it from her and holds it dearly to his chest.

With the help of Torrie, Dykstra is able to stumble his way around the ring, the pair looking head back up the aisle, ignoring the loud jeers from the fans. In the ring, Carlito is still on his knees, but a roar of approval breaks out as the camera focuses on him, and everyone in the arena sees that ‘Lito is shaking with rage, a furious scowl on his face as he watches Kenny and Torrie head for the exit... and the cheers grow louder as Carlito picks himself up, slides under the bottom rope and gives chase! Dykstra doesn’t have a clue what’s coming, until suddenly he’s grabbed from behind... then ‘Lito runs him back down the aisle... and tosses him back into the ring!

Dykstra crawls on his hands and knees, struggling to get back up, but as he heads to the ropes and tries to drag himself back to his feet, Carlito reaches down, scoops up his apple and takes a big bite... then just as Dykstra turns and staggers towards him... CARLITO SPITS APPLE CHUNKS ALL OVER KENNY! Dykstra flails wildly, blinded by the attack, leaving him wide open for... A SECOND BACKSTABBER!! It’s little consolation given the fact ‘Lito was robbed of the title, but the crowd are loving it as Carlito gains a measure of revenge on Dykstra. Looking down on the fallen champion, Carlito shakes his head and kicks the bottom rope in frustration, the crowd rising to give him a warm round of applause, but ‘Lito is still clearly annoyed at the fact that he was so close, only to have it taken away from him in such a cheap fashion.


Backstage we go, and it’s to the luxurious office of Mr. McMahon where we see ‘The Boss’ taking a few steps towards an intense looking Bobby Lashley, who sits on a basic wooden stool, wrapping black tape around his wrists even though he’s not scheduled to compete tonight. Shane McMahon is also in attendance, a concerned look on his face as he chews away at his nails, pacing back and forth in a tense manner...

Mr. McMahon: Shane... relax will ya’? You’ll wear a hole in the floor. Now Bobby, and I don’t wanna make any acquisitions here, but... that attack on John Cena last Monday night on Raw... you didn’t have anythin’ to do with that... did you?

Of course, we all know the answer to that one, and the smirk on Lashley’s face gives away the truth, even though Lashley shakes his head and says...

Bobby Lashley: Nothin’ to do with me, boss.

Returning to taping his wrists, Lashley's eyes lower to the floor, with an equally as big smirk now on Vince's face as he nods, satisfied with the answer...

Mr. McMahon: No. No of course not. I knew you had nothin' to do with it, Bobby. But uh, tonight... now that's a different story. Tonight, we need to make our presence known. Van Dam and Cena want a title match without any controversy? The hell with them. We're gonna be out there tonight, and we're gonna-

The sound of a door opening off-camera is heard, and a flustered looking Brooke Adams rushes in...

Brooke Adams: Mr. McMahon! Sorry to interrupt you, Sir, but uh, we have... visitors.

Mr. McMahon: Visitors?

All eyes and the camera now turn towards the door, and stepping into the room comes Linda McMahon and Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley to a reasonable cheer from inside the arena. The two McMahon ladies wear sharp business attire, showing this visit isn't of the personal nature, a fact emphasised by the awkward smile shared between Linda and Vince...

Mr. McMahon: Linda, Stephanie... nice to see you.

Linda McMahon: Always a pleasure, Vince.

Uneasy pleasantries out of the way, Vince goes in search of answers...

Mr. McMahon: So, what brings you two here tonight? I mean, given your husband is just a few short hours away from a No Holds Barred Match, I'd have thought you'd be with Hunter right now, Steph. And Linda... there's no boardroom here, there's no meetings scheduled. What business do you have bein' here?

A look of concern for her husband's well-being adorns Stephanie's face as her Father speaks, but Linda remains defiant...

Linda McMahon: Well, to be honest with you Vince, I'm just here to watch the show. And since Hunter asked to prepare for his match alone, I thought I might as well invite Stephanie along to watch it with me. And then, Stephanie had a great idea. Why not you, me, Stephanie and Shane, and of course, Bobby and Brooke, all sit down and watch the show together, right here in your office.

There's another decent enough cheer from the fans, but Vince initially looks confused...

Linda McMahon: That way, I can keep an eye on you four, and I can make sure you don't get involved in any of the action tonight.

But now a look of annoyance and anger crosses Vince's face...

Mr. McMahon: Now wait a damn minute. I'm not-

Linda McMahon: Aw c'mon, Vince. It'll be just like old times. Let's just sit down, relax and watch the show, just like one big happy family.

Disgusted, Vince turns away and rubs his eyes, shaking his head...

Mr. McMahon: Family?

Linda McMahon: That's right. Family. I think we'll take that one over there, huh Stephanie?

And with yet another cheer, Linda and Stephanie head for one of the couches, the one closest to the door, sitting themselves down and getting comfortable. The camera now zooms in on Vince, who looks frustrated at the fact that once again, it appears his wife is about to put a spanner in the works.

But we now cut elsewhere, to see Todd Grisham standing by, ready for an interview...


Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time... Jeff Hardy.

The camera pans and a loud pop is heard as the always popular Jeff Hardy steps into the frame, giving a quick nod hello in Grisham's direction...

Todd Grisham: Jeff, you’re issues with Randy Orton have escalated over the last few months, from the Rated-RKO assault of you before the Royal Rumble, to the confrontations you had in the run up to WrestleMania, to the Money in the Bank Ladder Match, and of course, the night after WrestleMania when Orton smashed the briefcase off your skull during your match together. Jeff, it feels like by hook or by crook, Orton always seems to get the better of you. What can you do differently to change all that tonight, with the Money in the Bank briefcase on the line?

Pausing to think, Hardy purses his lips and stares at Grisham for a few seconds before he responds...

Jeff Hardy: Y’know somethin’ Todd? I think you’re givin’ Randy Orton way too much credit. I mean, I’ll give it to ‘im, when it comes to attackin’ guys from behind backstage, or smacking a briefcase of their skull when their back’s turned, he’s probably the best in the world at doin’ that. Orton’s great at takin’ every shortcut he can find. But that ain’t me. And that ain’t gonna happen again tonight. Orton knows there’s too much at stake tonight for him to try somethin’ like that, and that’s gonna work in my favour, and you better believe I’m gonna take advantage of it.

Quick pop from inside the arena, with Hardy again pausing to ponder his words...

Jeff Hardy: But y’know, at WrestleMania, I gave everythin’ I had to grab that briefcase, and Orton... he snuck in at the last split second, and he snatched it away. So maybe tonight... I gotta take a page outta his book. Maybe tonight I gotta use some of his tactics, and do whatever it takes to win. Maybe tonight... I gotta play Randy Orton... at his own game.

Grisham flashes Jeff an inquisitive look, but Hardy presses on...

Jeff Hardy: I know that when there’s a level playin’ field, I can beat Randy Orton fair and square, one on one, in the centre of that ring. But... if Orton ain’t gonna give me a level playin’ field...

Jeff nods confidently...

Jeff Hardy: Then I’m gonna fight fire with fire... and Randy’s gonna get burned. And then that briefcase... it’s comin’ home with me.

A much louder pop breaks out as Jeff allows himself a brief smile, before he turns on his heels and heads off, Grisham watching him go, while we cut away.

Back into the arena for...

*THIS FIRE BURNS...*

A big time pop as The Straight Edge Saints emerge, with Kelly Kelly leading out a confident looking CM Punk and Nick Dinsmore...


Lillian Garcia: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is for the WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS! Introducing first, they are the challengers. Being accompanied to the ring by Kelly Kelly, at a combined weight of 445lbs... NICK DINSMORE... CM PUNK... THE STRAIGHT – EDGE – SAINNNTTTSSSSSS!

As Punk drops down to a knee, Dinsmore looks to fire up the crowd, with Punk then tapping the imaginary watch on his wrist, holding it against Kelly's ear, before the pair yell out “It's clobberin' time!” and the trio head down the aisle...

Joey Styles: The tag team division on Raw is really startin' to heat up, and here comes one of the most impressive young teams in recent memory. They've only been together a few months, but CM Punk and Nick Dinsmore have really been turnin' heads, and they fully deserve their first World Tag Team Titles opportunity here tonight.

Jim Ross: This is the pay per view debut for The Straight Edge Saints, but like you said Joey, they've already impressed a lotta people here on Raw.

Jerry Lawler: They've definitely impressed me. I'd even go as far as to say I think we might be lookin' at the next World Tag Team Champions right there.

*WORLD'S GREATEST...*

Some real strong heat as The World’s Greatest Tag Team make their entrance, with Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas decked out in matching blue tracksuits, the champions looking as confident as ever as they slowly make their way down to the ring...


Lillian Garcia: And their opponents... weighing in at a combined weight of 497lbs... they are the World Tag Team Champions... SHELTON BENJAMIN... CHARLIE HAAS... THE WORLD'S - GREATEST - TAG TEAMMMM!

As always, it’s Benjamin who does the trash talking, first with the fans and then he throws some abuse Punk’s way, still clearly smarting from his defeat last Monday on Raw. Haas steps through the ropes, but even he can’t resist the chance to taunt Dinsmore, simply holding his title belt in the face of the challenger...

Jim Ross: Haas and Benjamin have long been sayin’ that their goal, their mission to re-establish tag team wrestlin’ in the WWE, and they did just that when they beat the WWE Tag Team Champions The Hooligans at WrestleMania. But tonight’s a different story, their titles are on the line, and they’re up against a young team hungry for gold.

Joey Styles: Well certainly Haas and Benjamin represented Raw in winning fashion at WrestleMania. But you have to wonder, coukd the level of arrogance shown by these two to the other teams on Raw be what leads to the end of their title reign? They always say nobody on Raw can compete with them, well we’re about to find out.

Jerry Lawler: I might not necessarily agree with their attitude and their approach to things, but I gotta hand it to ‘em, these two have been the gold standard as far as tag team wrestlin’ goes for a while now. Even when they split up, there weren’t many teams who looked better than The World’s Greatest Tag Team. This is gonna be a huge test for Punk and Dinsmore, but I think they’re gonna do it, and then we’ll see a real surge in tag team action on Raw.






World Tag Team Championships Match:
World Tag Team Champions The World’s Greatest Tag Team vs. The Straight Edge Saints

Punk and Benjamin step forward to kick things off, continuing hostilities from last Monday's Raw, the two circling the ring before snapping into a tie up. After a bit of jockeying, Punk wrings on Benjamin's arm, only for Shelton to use an impressive handstand to transition into a hammerlock of his own. Benjamin wrenches on the arm, but Punk strikes with an elbow to the face, then breaks free by rolling forward into a snapmare takeover. With Shelton in a seated position, Punk quickly charges for the ropes... and rebounds with a stiff kick to the spine! Benjamin grimaces, Punk has him back up and goes for the Irish whip... Shelton reverses... then avoids Punk with a leapfrog... but can't avoid Punk as he comes off the ropes with a RUNNING CROSSBODY! Punk stays on for the early cover... 1... 2... Benjamin kicks out.

Looking to quicken the pace, Punk yanks Benjamin up, then he fires him off the ropes... only for Shelton to run Punk down with a shoulderblock! After standing over Punk for a few seconds, Shelton comes off the ropes... put Punk rolls over onto his stomach as Shelton runs over him... then bursts to his feet... and catches Shelton with an armdrag hiptoss! Both men are back up and charge at each other, with Punk going for a headlock... but Shelton slips free... then drops down into a BACKSLIDE! 1... 2... Punk kicks out, both men quickly back on their feet, where Benjamin drills a knee to the midsection, then rattles off a pair of hard right hands, before he goes for another Irish whip... but this time it's Punk who reverses... right into a TILT-A-WHIRL BACKBREAKER! Benjamin is down, and Punk hooks the leg...

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BENJAMIN KICKS OUT STRONGLY!

Looking to stay in control, Punk drags Benjamin up and strikes with another two kicks to the thighs, but on the third kick, Benjamin catches the foot, then uses a legsweep to take Punk down. Hanging onto the leg, Benjamin drags Punk towards the heels corner, then drops down with a grapevine to hold Punk in place as he rea for ches out and tags Haas. With Punk a sitting duck, Haas lines him up... and drops a knee right across the throat! Benjamin exits the ring, leaving Punk coughing and spluttering, with Haas dropping another two knees across the chest, before he starts laying in with stomps to the body. Pulling Punk up, Haas shoves him against the ropes, where more knees land to the midsection. A pair of uppercuts land on Punk's jaw, before he's been fired off the opposite side... but Haas swings and misses with a clothesline... and Punk keeps running... to score with a JUMPING LEG LARIAT! Punk is back up quickly, ready and waiting to catch Haas with an armdrag, hanging on for a standing armbar. Punk yanks Haas up, wrenches on the arm, then heads for the corner where he makes the tag to Dinsmore.

As Dinsmore enters, Punk hangs onto the arm, opening Haas up, allowing Dinsmore to drill Haas with a shot to the ribs. A pair of uppercuts causes Haas to stumble to the corner, where another uppercut lands, before Dinsmore goes for an Irish whip across the ring… Haas hits the turnbuckle hard and stumbles forward… right into a big BACK BODY DROP! Dinsmore then quickly turns and comes off the ropes… SNAP LEGDROP connects! Haas sits up, but Dinsmore yanks him back down for the cover… 1… 2… Haas easily kicks out. Dinsmore is up first, and he reaches down to bring Haas back to a vertical base, only for Haas to score with a surprise knee to the midsection. A stiff right hand follows to the face, then an uppercut which knocks Dinsmore down to a knee, allowing Haas to then lift a knee right off the jaw. The impact causes Dinsmore to stumble towards the heels corner, where Haas tags in Benjamin. Before he exits the ring though, Haas yanks Dinsmore up, trapping his arms to hold him open… and Benjamin drills a boot to the gut. With Nick doubled over, Shelton lands a forearm to the back of the head, then he takes Dinsmore towards a neutral corner… and SMASHES HIM FACE FIRST OFF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE! With Dinsmore against the corner, Benjamin winds up for a big right hand… Nick blocks it… and lands a right of his own! Backing Shelton from the corner, Dinsmore lands a trio of rights, before he doubles Benjamin over with a kick to the gut… then scores with a SWINGING NECKBREAKER!

Dinsmore takes a few seconds to recover, before he grabs Shelton and shoves him towards the face corner, where Punk tags back in. Like Haas, Dinsmore lingers, tagging Benjamin with a forearm, spinning him around… right into a ROUNDHOUSE KICK from Punk! The challengers then go for a double Irish whip to the corner, and when Benjamin hits the turnbuckle, Punk races in… KNEE TO THE FACE! And then he fires Shelton from the corner at Nick… into a SPINNING SPINEBUSTER! Dinsmore rolls from the ring, and Punk drops down for the cover, but he has to wait for the ref to usher Dinsmore from the ring before we get the 1… 2… Shelton kicks out. Looking to stay on the attack, Punk nips back up and as Benjamin makes it back to his knees, the champion tastes a stiff kick to the chest… but then darts up… and catches Punk with a JAWBREAKER! Still reeling from the offense he suffered, Benjamin grabs a handful of hair and tosses Punk to the heel corner, where Haas gets the tag and again shows off his aggressive side with more boots to the midsection and forearms to the back of the head. Haas then looks to fire Punk to a neutral corner, but as he races in, Punk uses the ropes to elevate himself… only for Haas to catch Punk on his shoulders… then drop him into a GUTBUSTER! Punk grabs his ribs and kicks his legs in pain, but Haas wastes no time in going for the cover…

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PUNK KICKS OUT!

Sensing he has Punk hurt, Haas now looks to target the midsection as he aims a few stomps into the stomach, then drops a few knees, before Haas positions Punk's head on the bottom rope, grabbing the top rope to add extra leverage as he drives his boot into Punk's throat. After being reprimanded by the ref, Haas grabs both of Punk's feet... then CATAPULTS PUNK THROAT FIRST OFF THE MIDDLE ROPE! Punk coughs and splutters as he writhes on the mat, while Haas gives him no chance to recover as Punk is dragged back towards the champions' corner where Benjamin gets the tag. Before Shelton steps in, Haas goes to throw another right hand... only for Punk to block it... and fire back with a right of his own! Fighting from the corner, Punk drills Shelton with an elbow to the face... then another right for Haas... another elbow to Benjamin... Haas charges back in... but Punk gets a boot up... no! Haas catches the foot, spins him to the side so Punk is sat on the middle rope... which allows Benjamin to TAKE PUNK'S HEAD OFF WITH A KICK TO THE FACE! The impact causes Punk to fall to the canvas, with Shelton now stepping in, dragging Punk to the centre of the ring and then dropping down for the...

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PUNK ROLLS A SHOULDER!

The camera shows a concerned look on the face of Kelly Kelly, but the champions waste no time in pressing home their advantage, as Shelton again lays in with more stomps to the throat and chest. Yanking Punk up, Benjamin is caught by surprise as Punk tags him with a forearm to the face, but as Punk stumbles towards his corner and reaches out for the tag, Shelton grabs him at the last second... and twists into a FALLING NECKBREAKER! With his eyes firmly locked on Dinsmore, Shelton hooks the leg... 1... 2... Punk stays alive! With a glare towards the ref and handful of hair, Shelton has Punk back on his feet, hooking him up for a suplex... but Punk blocks it with his foot. Again Benjamin tries it, this time getting Punk up in the air... but Punk wriggles and kicks free, landing behind Benjamin... kick to the midsection... then Punk goes for a SUNSET FLIP... but Benjamin keeps his balance... and tags Haas! Punk completes the sunset flip, has the pinning predicament... but there's no count as Haas enters from behind... and smacks another stiff kick to the spine! Just like that, the crowd are deflated once more, and Haas goes right back to work as he drops a knee across the throat. Haas yanks Punk up, and casually tosses him through the ropes, Punk smacking off the floor. Haas then grabs the attention of both Dinsmore and the ref as he starts trash talking Dinsmore, with provides the distraction for Benjamin to drop down, scoop Punk up... then DROP HIM THROAT FIRST ACROSS THE BARRICADE! Textbook tag action from the champions, with Benjamin quickly rolling Punk back in then nipping up onto the apron. Haas looks to press the advantage home as he has Punk up, then fires him off the ropes... into a FLAPJACK... DROPPED ACROSS THE TOP ROPE! Looking out of it, Punk's limp body just hangs on the ropes, and the champions work quickly as Haas tags Benjamin, then lifts up Punk's legs, holding him in position as Shelton comes off the ropes... leapfrogs Haas... and brings all his weight CRASHING DOWN ON PUNK! Benjamin hooks the leg, convinced it's over, but he has to wait as Haas is ushered from the ring before we hear...

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PUNK GETS A FOOT ON THE ROPE!

Frustration is now starting to set in for the champion, with Benjamin making a quick tag to Haas, a look of determination on Charlie's face as he looks to end things. Haas yanks Punk up, then delivers a few more forearms to the back of the neck, before he hooks Punk up... and goes for a NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX... but Punk counters in mid air... TORNADO DDT! Both men are down and out, neither man showing signs of life, until eventually Punk surfaces, crawling towards his corner. Haas manages to do the same, but the fact that his corner is close means he's able to tag in Benjamin... who races across the ring... and sends Dinsmore flying off with the apron with a forearm to the face! Benjamin quickly turns back to Punk, landing stomp after stomp to the chest, before he shoves Punk to the corner, then lays in with more boots to the midsection. Grabbing the wrist, Shelton goes for an Irish whip across the ring... Punk hits the turnbuckle hard... and Shelton lines him up... SHELTON SPLASH! Benjamin crushes Punk against the corner, then turns and comes off the ropes... as Punk stumbles out... into PAYDIRT... NO! Punk hangs on, and forces Shelton onto his shoulders... GO-TO-SLEEP! Punk levels Benjamin, but he's too exhausted to make the cover, and now both men are down...

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Punk is first to make a move, inching his way towards his corner, the raucous crowd urging him on...

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There's little sign of life from Benjamin, despite Haas pleading with his partner to make the tag...

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Benjamin manages to sit up, looking over his shoulder... but it's too late... as Punk tags in Dinsmore! Nick races into the ring, bowling Shelton over with a shoulderblock, and he keeps on running to knock Haas off the apron! Dinsmore turns back to Shelton, snapping off a pair of rights, before he goes for the Irish whip... right into a POWERSLAM! Haas storms into the ring, but Dinsmore ducks a clothesline attempt... then hooks up Haas from behind... RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX! The force of the move causes Haas to roll under the bottom rope, allowing Dinsmore to turn his attentions back to Benjamin. Right hands back Benjamin to the ropes, then he's fired across... into a SNAP OVERHEAD BELLY-TO-BELLY SUPLEX! The fans are alive as Dinsmore goes for the cover...

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BENJAMIN ROLLS THE SHOULDER!

Sensing the end could be near, Dinsmore storms back to his feet, calling for Benjamin to stumble up so he can go for the Irish whip... but Shelton reverses... and from the outside, Haas grabs Dinsmore by the foot! Putting on the breaks, Dinsmore sees Haas jumping up onto the apron... and sends him flying with a right hand! But when Dinsmore turns, Shelton is ready and waiting... to NAIL THE SUPERKICK... NO! Dinsmore grabs the foot, traps the leg, takes Shelton down, steps, twists and sits... TEXAS CLOVERLEAF!! Dinsmore locks on his submission move! Frantically Shelton scratches and claws for the ropes, but eh titles are in serious jeopardy as Benjamin is trapped in the centre of the ring... but Haas saves the day as he hammers Dinsmore from behind! The crowd jeer as Haas saves his partner, but here comes Punk, striking with elbows to the chest and kicks to the body that back Haas to the ropes. Punk fires Haas across, then charges in... STEP UP KNEE TO THE FACE... and Punk hangs on... BULLDOG! Haas is down and out, and now the challengers turns their attentions back to Benjamin. Dinsmore reaches down, pulls Shelton back up, then as Punk heads outside and climbs to the top rope, Dinsmore takes Shelton up on his shoulders... and the crowd is electric as they all know what's coming next... DOOMSDAY DROPKICK... NO! Before Punk can fly, Haas drops Dinsmore with a CHOP BLOCK! Dinsmore and Benjamin have a nasty landing, and the distraction causes Punk to pause, allowing Haas to nip up to the second rope and land a few rights to the midsection. Haas then heads to the rope, hooks Punk up... SUPERPLEX... NO! Punk desperately fights it, drilling rights to the gut, breaking Haas' grip... then Punk shoves Haas to the canvas! Punk now stands on the top rope, ready to fly, the crowd on their feet... FLYING ELBOW DROP! Punk connects, pushing himself off of Haas, allowing Haas to roll from the bottom rope, but as Punk stands back up... he's levelled with the DRAGON WHIP!

Benjamin strikes out of nowhere, knocking Punk from the ring, and now all that remains is Benjamin and Dinsmore. On the canvas, Nick clutches his knee, clearly suffering from the impact of the chop block, leaving a wide eyed Shelton on his feet, seeing a prime chance to finish things. Slowly Dinsmore starts to rise, and Benjamin makes his move... going for PAYDIRT... NO! Again it's countered, this time with Dinsmore simply shoving Benjamin down to the mat, his head smacking off the canvas... and now Dinsmore grabs the leg, steps, twists and sits one more time... TEXAS CLOVERLEAF! FOR THE SECOND TIME DINSMORE LOCKS IN HIS SUBMISSION HOLD!! Memphis is on it's feet as Dinsmore looks to win it for The Saints... but on the outside, Haas has grabbed one of the World Tag Team Championship belts and is heading for the ring... only for Kelly Kelly to grab it off him! Furious, Haas gets in Kelly's face, screaming at her, and of course this grabs the attention of the referee, who heads to the ropes... meaning he doesn't see BENJAMIN TAPPING OUT! SHELTON TAPS, THE MATCH SHOULD BE OVER! Wondering why there's no bell, Dinsmore heads to the ropes, sees the situation, and shouts down at Haas. Haas jumps up onto the apron and swings a right hand... Dinsmore blocks it... and scores a right of his own, sending Haas down! Nick now turns back to the action... where Benjamin has stumbled back to his feet... and catches Dinsmore unaware... T-BONE SUPLEX!! Benjamin strikes, crawls over to hook the leg...

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PUNK DESPERATELY TRIES TO CRAWL INTO THE RING
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BUT HAAS GRABS HIM BY THE FOOT
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!!!

Winners: And STILL World Tag Team Champions, The World’s Greatest Tag Team @ 13.28

Heartache for The Saints as Benjamin strikes from out of nowhere and grabs the win for the champions. Punk finally slides back into the ring, but it’s too late, as Shelton rolls outside and shares a hug with Haas, leaving a dejected Punk to try and bring Dinsmore back around. On the floor, Haas and Benjamin snatch their titles away from the referee, Haas planting a kiss square on his, while Benjamin turns back to the ring and holds the belt in the air, shouting “We told you. We’re the greatest!”, much to the disgust of Punk. Kelly Kelly helps to bring some life back into Dinsmore, who slowly pushes himself up off the canvas, but as Haas and Benjamin back their way up the aisle, Punk can be seen shaking his head, vowing “This isn’t over!”, before we cut away.

And it’s back to the interview set we go to see Maria standing by...


Maria: Hi! I'm Maria! And ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, he is the WWE Champion... ROB – VAN – DAM!

The loudest pop of the night so far welcomes the arrival of Rob Van Dam as the champ steps into the frame. Van Dam is not his usual laid back self, the calm demeanour replaced with a much more intense look, no doubt a combination of the importance of the occasion and the fact that ‘RVD’ enters Backlash off the back of a defeat last Monday on Raw...

Maria: Now Rob, ever since you were challenged to a WWE Title Match by John Cena, the two of you have fought to make that match happen. You've said that the perfect way to legitimise your title win is to beat Cena, without any controversy. But after Cena was attacked last Monday on Raw by an unknown assailant, and we've yet to find out if he's 100%... do you think you can still get what you want?

Van Dam shakes his head and lets out a sigh, clearly disappointed and annoyed with what happened last Monday night...

Rob Van Dam: Yeah well, I’m kinda startin’ to see how things are gonna go. I say I wanna face any challenger, John Cena steps up… and Vince McMahon decides I’m gonna have to do it his way against his guy. And then, when I finally do get my match with Cena, and I said I was lookin’ for a match with no controversy, with no excuses… Vince and Lashley decide I’m not getting’ that either. So to answer your question, no, I don’t think I’m gonna get what I want. But that’s somethin’ I’ve gotten pretty used to this last month.

Ruefully, all ‘RVD’ can do is shrug his shoulders and shake his head once more…

Rob Van Dam: But... I’m not gonna sit and whine and complain about it. I know that even if he’s not 100%, John Cena’s still gonna be a helluva challenge. And that’s what ‘RVD’ as WWE Champion is all about. Takin’ on the biggest challengers... and beatin’ ‘em.

A nice pop from the crowd as an intense Van Dam stares intently into the camera...

Rob Van Dam: But I just wanna let Vince, Shane... and most importantly, Lashley know, that if they keep stickin’ their noses in my business... then I’m gonna start makin’ a few challenges of my own.

And another pop, which draws a slight smile to Van Dam’s face...

Rob Van Dam: As far as concerned, Vince and Lashley, they’re nothin’ more than a distraction right now. A distraction I really don’t need, dude. I mean, it’s hard enough tryin’ to be John Cena, without ‘The Boss’ and his hired good tryin’ to get involved. So right now, I’m focusin’ everythin’ I got on John... and then I’ll deal with Lashley down the line.

’RVD’ looks off camera for a second, before he quickly turns his ehad and stares straight down the lens...

Rob Van Dam: All I want is the chance for me and John to go out there, have a great match, and tear the house down. And we’re gonna do that whether Vince likes it or not. Tonight is one night where I’m finally gonna get things my way. And that means me and Cena, one on one... and when it’s all said and done, there’s gonna one guy left standin’ as the WWE Champion...

Van Dam draws his thumbs above his head and says...

Rob Van Dam: ROB – VAN – DAM!

The crowd join in with the chant and then let out another loud cheer as Van Dam wraps things up, offering a simple smile in Maria’s direction before he makes his exit.

And we waste little time in lingering on Maria as the shot quickly cuts away to a split screen that shows us the differing methods of preparation being used by Triple H and Shawn Michaels ahead of their match tonight. On the left, ‘The Game’ finishes taping up his knuckles, then steps up from his chair and heads for the corner of his locker-room where he grabs a bottle of water, takes a sip, then starts to perform a series of squat thrusts. On the right, there’s no emotion from Michaels as he sits in a darkened room, hands clasped infront of him, eyes closed, head lowered, clearly wanting to be along with his thoughts right now...


Jim Ross: There you see ‘em folks. The two men set to compete in tonight’s No Holds Barred Match. Shawn Michaels, Triple H, former best friends, now enemies, engaged in what’s bein’ dubbed ‘The Final Battle’.

Jerry Lawler: They say you can tell a lot about a man by lookin’ into his eyes. And the fact that Shawn Michaels has his eyes closed right now says everythin’ you need to know about that man over these last few months. He’s been cold as ice, he’s given absolutely nothin’ away. Honestly, when I think about the Shawn Michaels I used to know... this Shawn Michaels is just downright scary. Who knows what he’s capable of tonight?

Joey Styles: Yeah but look at the focus and the intensity in the eyes of Triple H. After all Shawn Michaels has done to him, after all that’s been said, after Michaels vowed to end Triple H’s career, after Michaels brought his family into it, that right there is a man determined to extract revenge. I don’t doubt that Shawn Michaels believes some higher power is guidin’ him into battle, but I don’t think that’s gonna be enough given what ‘The Game’ is set to unleash tonight.

Jim Ross: It’s gonna be an absolute war folks. Triple H, Shawn Michaels, a long history together, a great friendship, a storied rivalry, and it all comes to a head, right here at Backlash.

And after a few seconds silence...

*PAPARAZZI...*

The red carpet rolls out and the cameraman scramble for position as Melina walks out arm in arm with Johnny Nitro and Chris Masters, the trio stopping at the start of the carpet to provide a series of poses for the photographers...


Lillian Garcia: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match! Making their way to the ring, weighing in at a combined weight of 605lbs, the team of MELINA, ‘THE MASTERPIECE’ CHRIS MASTERS AND JOHHNNNYYY NITTTRRROOOOO!

With the posing done, the trio make their way down the aisle, looking extremely confident of victory tonight, no doubt due to the win Masters and Melina have picked up in recent weeks...

Jim Ross: Well here come three individuals for whom 2007 has not been a banner year thus far. After a string of defeats, Melina brought Chris Masters and Johnny Nitro together as a team, only for the duo to lose every match they’ve competed in this year. But after Melina’s victory over Natalya two weeks ago, and Masters’ win over Harry Smith last Monday night, perhaps things are finally startin’ to come together for these three.

Joey Styles: I’m sure those wins will have given this team a much needed confidence boost. But those two wins have came in singles competition, and it’s in the tag team division were Nitro and Masters have really struggled. Something just doesn’t seem to be clicking between those two.

Jerry Lawler: If Johnny Nitro beat Tyson Kidd in a singles match tomorrow, nobody would be surprised. But the way they’re goin’ right now, I’d consider Masters and Nitro beatin’ Smith and Kidd a real upset. Maybe the presence of Melina in this match is gonna make all the difference. Maybe she can lead these two to a much needed win.

*HART BEAT...*

Despite still being relative newcomers, it’s a very welcome as The Hart Legacy make their entrance. As always, Natalya Niedhart leads the way, with both Harry Smith and Tyson Kidd bringing up the rear...


Lillian Garcia: And their opponents. From Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Weighing in at a combined weight of 580lbs, NATALYA NIEDHART, TYSON KIDD AND HARRY SMITH, THE HART LEGGGAAACCCYYYY!

As the trio approach the ring, Harry and Tyson push Natalya up onto the apron, and then the trio step through the ropes. After they head for the corners and pose for the fans, the three drop down to the canvas, and of course Melina is right there to taunt and throw some trash talk their way, especially at Natalya...

Joey Styles: This is the first time on pay per view for The Hart Legacy, and while I don’t have any doubts about them rising to the occasion, you have to wonder what kind of effect those defeats to Melina and Masters are gonna have on them.

Jerry Lawler: I know Harry Smith was particularly disappointed at losing in the United Kingdom last Monday night, but I think he’ll use that as motivation right here. The Hart’s have only been in the WWE for a couple of months, but they’ve already picked up some pretty impressive wins, and I think they’ll get another one right here.

Jim Ross: I think there’s gotta be nerves for this young team, especially their first time on pay per view, but given we saw The Straight Edge Saints lose earlier in the broadcast, this could be a real chance for either of these teams to put themselves in line for the next shot at the champions. Which team handles the pressure best is gonna go a long way to gettin’ the win.






Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match:
The Hart Legacy vs. Johnny Nitro, Chris Masters and Melina

The two powerhouses kick things off as Masters and Smith both step forward, the two inching towards each other from their corners, but before they can tie up, Masters calls for a test of strength. Accepting the challenge, Smith offers his hand, and the two lock up... but before the second hand can come together, Masters drills Smith with a boot to the midsection. A pair of forearms to the back of the head follow, before Masters goes for an Irish whip... only for Smith to bowl him over with a big shoulderblock! Smith quickly gets Masters back up, and fires him off the ropes... BIG BOOT to the face! Again Smith works quickly to get Masters back up, grabbing the wrist, wrenching the arm around his head, before tagging in Kidd. With Smith holding Masters in place, Tyson slings to the top rope... then lands a SPRINGBOARD DOUBLE AXE HANDLE across the arm! Masters drops to his knees, and before Kidd can continue the attack, Masters scrambles to his corner to tag in Nitro.

Nitro bursts into the ring and races at Kidd... who rocks Nitro with an armdrag! Both men back up... another armdrag sends Nitro flying, but this time Kidd hangs on for a standing armbar. Nitro forces himself back to his feet, backing the pair to the ropes, before he shoves Kidd off the opposite side and goes for a clothesline... but Kidd avoids the contact with a baseball slide... then smacks Nitro with a ROUNDHOUSE KICK! Nitro is down, but makes it back to a knee as Kidd comes off the ropes... LOW ANGLE DROPKICK! Kidd smacks the side of the head, goes for the cover...

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MASTERS BREAKS THE COUNT!

A stomp to the back of Kidd's head saves Nitro, but this only prompts Smith to storm the ring... and clobber Masters with a forearm! Smith now lays in with right hands against the ropes, before he backs up... and CLOTHESLINES MASTERS OVER THE TOP ROPE! Now Kidd looks for an Irish whip off the ropes on Nitro... but Nitro reverses... Kidd hangs on, and Nitro charges... BACK BODY DROP SENDS NITRO FLYING TO THE FLOOR! Melina screams in horror as her team look in trouble early on, and she drops down and pulls Masters and Nitro together in an attempt to rally the troops. As Melina speaks to her team, they don't see that Tyson Kidd has climbed to the top rope... Melina screams and runs to safety... as KIDD TAKES OUT BOTH MASTERS AND NITRO WITH A MOONSAULT!! The crowd pop for the high flying antics of Kidd, who's quickly back on his feet and rolling Nitro into the ring, crawling in to hook the leg...

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NITRO KICKS OUT!

Looking to press home the advantage, Kidd yanks Nitro up and starts striking with kicks to the thighs, before he looks to send Nitro off the ropes… but Nitro hangs on near his corner… and tags in… Melina! Suffering from the offence he’s absorbed, Nitro steps through the ropes and ushers Melina in, the diva tentatively stepping through the ropes. Although by the rules of the match he doesn’t have to, Kidd naturally tags Natalya into the match, who races at Melina… DOUBLE LEG TAKEDOWN! Natalya takes Melina down and hammers her with forearms to the face, before Natalya rises and waits for Melina to stumble back up... so she can hook her up for a SUPLEX… but Melina manages to drive Natalya to the heels corner… where Nitro makes a blind tag! Melina quickly lets go as Nitro slips into the ring… leaving Niedhart trapped in the corner! Masters and Melina laugh and smirk as Nitro lines Natalya up… but when he pounces, Natalya rolls past him… then dives to tag Tyson Kidd!

Nitro turns too late, and when he chases after, he runs right into Kidd… RUNNING DROPKICK! Nitro struggles back up against the ropes, where once again Kidd unloads with kicks to the thighs, before he goes for the Irish whip… but Nitro reverses… Masters low bridges the top rope… and KIDD TUMBLES ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR! A hard landing for Kidd as he smacks off the floor, the cheap tactics drawing Smith and Natalya into the ring to protest… which allows Masters to drop down, scoop Kidd up… and DRIVE HIM SPINE FIRST INTO THE RINGPOST! Kidd cries out in pain, but Masters doesn’t let go, holding Kidd up then rolling him back into the ring. With Smith and Niedhart finally departing, Nitro tags in Masters, who looks to do damage to the spine as he takes Kidd up… and down with a BACKBREAKER! Masters arrogantly turns towards Melina and smiles, with Melina loudly clapping, and Masters continues the attack as he drags Kidd up and starts hammering him with forearms to the small of the back, before he hooks Kidd up… and takes him high in the air… and holds him in place… for a long DELAYED VERTICAL SUPLEX! Tyson crashes to the mat, and Masters goes for the cover…

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KIDD KICKS OUT!

From the kickout, Masters drags Kidd towards the heels corner and tags Nitro, who yanks Kidd up then holds him in place... allowing MELINA TO SLAP HIM ACROSS THE FACE! And straight from this, Nitro hits the STO backbreaker... and transitions into a RUSSIAN LEGSWEEP! Another cover... 1... 2... Kidd kicks out again! Nitro quickly tags in Masters, who goes right back to work on the lower back, again landing forearms to the spine, the last one knocking Kidd down so his throat sits upon the bottom rope. Masters then drops his knee on the lower back and shoves Kidd's head forward, applying pressure to the spine and choking Tyson at the same time, until finally Masters is forced to relent. Another tag to Nitro, but Masters hangs around to hit a backbreaker, keeping Kidd across his knee... as Nitro flies over the ropes and nails a SLINGSHOT ELBOWDROP! Kidd is folded up like an accordion, but Nitro rolls him over and goes for the victory...

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KIDD ROLLS A SHOULDER!!

Tyson barely hangs in there, much to Melina's frustration, but Masters wastes no time in calling for the tag and stepping in. Masters pulls Tyson up, and quickly fires him off the ropes... right into a BEARHUG!! Masters traps Kidd, violently swinging him back and forth, arms gripped tight around the waist, trying to squeeze the life out of his opponent. On the apron, worried looks are on the faces of Smith and Natalya as they watch Kidd slowly drifting away. Masters ups the pressure, squeezing tighter and wrenching back and forth once more, looking to make Kidd pass out from the pain. Just as it looks like Kidd is done for, the crowd start to rally, making their voices heard, and with some encouragement from his partners, Kidd starts to stir, bringing his hands up, trying to break the hold with a pair of right hands... no use, Masters hangs in there... so Kidd swings his arms up, wraps them around Masters' head, then kicks his legs... TORNADO DDT! A great counter as Kidd breaks the hold by driving Masters into the canvas, and now slowly both men are crawling towards their corners... Masters tags in Nitro... but here comes Harry Smith!

Smith bounds into the ring... and runs right through Nitro with a BODYBLOCK! Nitro bounces back up... RUNNING CLOTHESLINE puts him down again! Here comes Masters... but Smith catches him... BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX! The referee looks to get Masters out of there, but this allows Melina to sneak into the ring, and from behind... LOW BLOW TO SMITH! Harry crumples in pain, but here comes Natalya... TACKLING MELINA TO THE MAT! Niedhart unloads with a flurry of rights and lefts, forcing Melina to roll from the ring to save herself! Back on her feet, Natalya calls for Melina to get back in, but as she looks down on the floor, she doesn't see Masters sneak up from behind... MASTERLOCK!! MASTERLOCK LOCKED IN ON NATALYA! The crowd boo loudly as Masters violently swings Niedhart's body back and forth, but here comes Tyson Kidd... RUNNING ENZUIGIRI! The impact of boot to skull causes Masters to release the hold and stumble towards the ropes... DROPKICK FROM NATALYA SENDS HIM OUTSIDE! But now here comes Nitro, spinning Natalya around... SLAP TO THE FACE! Niedhart slaps the taste right out of Nitro's mouth, spinning him around, right into the grip of Harry Smith... who fires Nitro off the ropes... and takes him up with a bearhug... just as Kidd slingshots onto the top rope then flies... HART ATTACK!! Kidd nails the deadly finishing move, and it's he who hooks Nitro's leg...

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!!!

Winners: The Hart Legacy @ 07.19

A great win for The Harts as Kidd puts Nitro away, quickly pushing off him and getting back to his feet where he, Smith and Niedhart celebrate with a hug, while on the outside, Melina screams and shrieks in fury at another defeat. The trio have their hands raised in victory to a nice cheer from the crowd, before they head for the ropes and make their exit, slapping hands with the fans as they head up the aisle. Back in the ring, Melina and Masters have re-entered the ring, with Melina helping Nitro back to his feet. Masters has a seriously pissed off look on his face as he stands with his hands on his hips, not offering any help. As Nitro shakes away the cobwebs, he sees Masters staring back at him, confusion on Nitro’s face... but the confusion is soon cleared up as Masters shoves Nitro’s chest! Nitro recoils and quickly squares up to Masters, the two arguing with each other, both men shouting and pointing in the other’s face. Melina shouts for calm and tries to separate the two, and she finally manages it as she forces herself between them.

Just as it looks the teammates are about to come to blows, Melina urges them to stop, and it seems to work as although both men are still fuming, they step away, with no punches thrown. Nitro opens his arms and shouts “What’s your problem!?” at Masters, but ‘The Masterpiece’ is clearly too angry to answer as he simply shakes his head... then he turns and starts to walk away. Instinctively, Melina tries to grab Masters by the arm to stop him, but Masters simply shakes her off and heads for the ropes, stepping through them and dropping down to the floor. Melina heads to the ropes, pleading with Masters to return, and Masters stops in his tracks and stares back at her, clearly thinking things over. Wracked with anger and confusion, Masters stops and wipes the sweat from his brow, hands on hips again, clearly thinking things over... and then he nods his head slowly. Melina quickly urges Nitro to follow her outside, the trio now reunited on the floor, where Masters offers Nitro a handshake as a way of apology... and after hesitating for a few seconds, Nitro accepts. The crowd boo, as it seems Melina has managed to avoid the breaking up of the unit, but as the trio begin to head backstage, there is clearly work to be done to ease the tension between Johnny Nitro and Chris Masters.


*Video Package*

Our video opens at the King of the Ring ’96, where ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin stands victorious, delivering the interview that launched his main event career…

Narrator: It’s a night where future legends make their mark...

“AUSTIN 3:16 SAYS I JUST WHIPPED YOUR ASS!”

We now head back to King of the Ring ’93, where Bret Hart puts Bam Bam Bigelow away with the winning victory roll...

Narrator: A night where icons are created…

“I’M THE BEST THERE IS, THE BEST THERE WAS, AND THE BEST THERE EVER WILL BE!”

King of the Ring ’01, where Edge puts Kurt Angle down with the Edgecution then crawls into the pin to get an emotional victory…

Narrator: A night when the stars of tomorrow shine bright...

“WELCOME TO THE ERA OF AWESOMENESS!”

And we now go to last year’s tournament final, where Booker T grabs the win over Bobby Lashley…

Narrator: A night to crown… a new king.

“BOW DOWN BEFORE YOUR KING!”

We now see flashing images of some of this year’s contenders, starting with Jeff Hardy, Montel Vontavious Porter, CM Punk and Matt Hardy…

Narrator: And this year, live on NBC, the WWE King of the Ring returns! It’s the one night Saturday Night’s Main Event spectacular where one man’s career is set to skyrocket!

More flashing images, this time it’s Bryan Danielson, Kenny Dykstra, Johnny Nitro and Mr. Kennedy…

Narrator: Eight men will battle to join the most exclusive of WWE clubs. Who will take King Booker’s crown and become the 2007 King of the Ring!?

Another round of flashing images, this time of former winners such as Steve Austin, Owen Hart, Edge, Bret Hart and King Booker…

Narrator: The King is dead…

More clips from last year, this time from Booker’s coronation ceremony, then a quick shot of him close to tears after his victory to clinch the World Heavyweight Championship…

“ALL HAIL KING BOO-KAH!”

”Long live… the King.”



"SATURDAY NIGHT’S MAIN EVENT – THREE HOUR KING OF THE RING SPECIAL – JUNE 2ND - LIVE ON NBC!"

*End Video Package*


Back into the arena to the smiling faces of our announce team...

Jim Ross: Yes folks, the King of the Ring tournament is back, and it all kicks off tomorrow night, live on Raw. 32 men will enter the qualifying round, 16 from Raw, 16 from SmackDown, if ya’ make it to the final eight, you’re guaranteed a trip to Saturday Night’s Main Event on June 2nd in Boston, Massachusetts.

Jerry Lawler: And I can’t wait to get things started tomorrow night! You both remember that I’m in this thing, right? Is my qualifier tomorrow night? I’m itchin’ to get things started!

Joey Styles: Settle down their ‘King’, you’re gonna have to wait to find out when your match is. But as was revealed Friday night on SmackDown, we can show you once again both the Raw and SmackDown brackets. Let’s take a look at some of the potential matches that could get us underway tomorrow night...

Harry Smith vs. Kenny Dykstra
Lance Cade vs. Nick Dinsmore

Chris Masters vs. Jerry Lawler
CM Punk vs. Trevor Murdoch

Carlito vs. Mike Knox
Shelton Benjamin vs. Super Crazy

Hardcore Holly vs. Jeff Hardy
Charlie Haas vs. Tyson Kidd

Joey Styles: So there you have it folks, some very interesting match ups. What do you make of that ‘King’? You and Chris Masters in the qualifying round.

Jerry Lawler: Well, obviously Chris Masters is a great competitor. But he seems to be goin’ through some problems right now with Johnny Nitro, and I’m lookin’ to take advantage of that by beatin’ ‘im and advancing to the next round!

Jim Ross: Some big hitters from Raw, the likes of Jeff Hardy, Carlito, CM Punk and the Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra. But there’s another 16 competitors from Friday Night Smackdown, let’s take a look at their half of the draw...

King Booker vs. Tommy Dreamer
Jimmy Wang Yang vs. Mr. Kennedy

Matt Hardy vs. William Regal
Kane vs. Finlay

Gregory Helms vs. Shannon Moore
Brian Kendrick vs. Paul London

Bryan Danielson vs. Santino Marella
Montel Vontavious Porter vs. Sabu

Jerry Lawler: And of course, the big match that stands out from the round, is Kane against Finlay. What a battle that’s gonna be. And let’s not forget, King Booker is entered this year, tryin’ to become the first man ever to retain the King of the Ring crown.

Jim Ross: I like the look of a lotta that young talent on SmackDown. Guys like Gregory Helms, Bryan Danielson, ‘MVP’, Mr. Kennedy, they’re all in it, and they’ve all got a great chance of winnin’ it all.

Joey Styles: Remember folks, it all kicks off tomorrow night with the first batch of qualifiers, live on Monday Night Raw!

A brief moment of silence, and then...

*LOADED...*

The crowd are on their feet once more as the always charismatic Jeff Hardy bursts out from the back, gyrating his head back and forth, setting off a burst of pyro before he makes his way towards the ring...


Lillian Garcia: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is the Money in the Bank Match! Introducing first, from Cameron, North Carolina, weighing in at 215lbs... JEFFFF... HHAAARRRRDDDDYYYYY!

In the ring, Jeff climbs to the second rope and receives another loud cheer from the fans, before he drops down and starts to circle the ring, fully aware of the tremendous opportunity ahead of him right now...

Joey Styles: Jeff Hardy gave a great performance during the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania XXIII, but it was Randy Orton who came outta nowhere to grab himself the briefcase and a guaranteed title shot at any point over the next twelve months. But tonight, Jeff has the opportunity to take that briefcase away, just one month after Orton won it. A huge opportunity for Hardy right here.

Jim Ross: Jeff’s always had the potential to be a main event player here on Raw, a heavyweight champion waitin’ to happen if ya’ ask me. Tonight could be the night Jeff finally grabs his big opportunity, but it’s gonna take a helluva lot to get past Orton.

Jerry Lawler: And we’ve heard Orton say he doesn’t plan on waitin’ too long before cashin’ the briefcase in. How long do you think Jeff would wait if he won right here? We might even see a cash-in right here tonight!

”HEY!”

*BURN IN MY LIGHT...*

Some real strong heat as Randy Orton makes his entrance, a real look of disdain on his face as he takes in his surroundings. Orton clutches the Money in the Bank briefcase in his right hand, shaking his head, clearly not happy about defending his prized possession tonight...


Lillian Garcia: And introducing his opponent. From St. Louis, Missouri, weighing in at 240lbs... he is ‘Mr. Money in the Bank’... RANDY... ORRRTTTOOONNNNN!

As he reaches the foot of the ring, Orton comes to a stop, staring up at Hardy, a real sense of disgust on his face, before he shakes his head and slowly, methodically makes his way around the ring to the steps at the far corner. In the ring, Orton stares at Hardy some more before he climbs to the second rope for his trademark ‘Legend Killer’ pose, before he drops down and hands his briefcase over to the referee...

Jim Ross: You asked how long Hardy would wait, I’ve got to wonder how much longer Orton is gonna hang onto that briefcase. If Orton can survive here, it could give ‘im a real scare, and that could lead to him cashin’ in pretty quickly.

Jerry Lawler: I don’t think Orton’s gonna be panicked into anything. He’s too calculated, too methodical for that. If Orton makes it through this match, I’m sure he’ll wait for the perfect time and then strike.

Joey Styles: And that’s the danger of a competitor like Orton. Everything he does in the ring is so well thought-out, just when it looks like you’ve got ‘im where you want ‘im, Orton can strike with that RKO. Jeff’s gotta really be on the top of his game for that briefcase to change hands...





Money in the Bank Match:

’Mr. Money in the Bank’ Randy Orton vs. Jeff Hardy

The bell rings, both men stood across the ring in opposite corners, and despite Hardy springing forward, it's a much more calculated Orton as he starts to circle the ring. The two eventually come together for a collar and elbow tie up, the pair jockeying for position, until finally it's Hardy who wins the strength battle as he backs Orton into a corner. The referee steps in and Hardy gives the break, but as he backs away, Orton gives him a stiff shove to the chest. Jeff laughs it off as he retreats to the centre of the ring, waving Orton forward, the two again tieing up, but this time Jeff works into a standing side headlock. Orton tries to pry the grip open, but Jeff hangs on, until Orton shoves him into the ropes... and Jeff rebounds with a shoulderblock! Angrily, Orton storms back to his feet... but runs right into a HEADLOCK TAKEDOWN! Hardy hangs on and wrenches on the hold on the canvas, with Orton showing his frustration as he slaps the mat. Orton forces himself back up, and he breaks the headlock by shoving Hardy off the ropes... and then swinging a clothesline... but Hardy ducks underneath, and waits for Orton to turn... inverted atomic drop... then Hardy uses a double leg takedown... and hits the DOUBLE LEGDROP! The impact causes Orton to sit up, and here comes Hardy off the ropes... LOW ANGLE DROPKICK! Hardy goes for an early cover... 1... 2... Orton kicks out.

Off the kick out, Orton crawls to the ropes, and when Jeff follows in, Orton catches him with an elbow to the midsection, following with a knee to the gut then an uppercut. Orton then shoves Hardy to the corner, ;lays in with more uppercuts, before a clubbing forearm to the back drops Hardy to a knee. Orton's boot is now driven into Hardy's throat against the turnbuckle, Orton taking every second of the five count before he finally relinquishes. Dragging Hardy up by the hair, Orton shoves him against the ropes, then goes for the Irish whip across... Orton lowers his head... and Hardy snaps it back up with a kick! Orton stumbles back to the ropes, and here comes Jeff... CLOTHESLINE OVER THE TOP ROPE TO THE FLOOR! Orton hits the floor with a thud, and he stays down for a few seconds, before returning to his feet and pacing the outside, clearly frustrated with how things have gone so far. The ref backs Jeff off then starts to count, only for Hardy to slide out of the ring, jump up onto the barricade and run along it... and when Orton turns... he's caught with a DIVING CLOTHESLINE FROM THE BARRICADE!

Hardy takes the fight to Orton on the outside, staying on top of him to hammer down with right hands, before he heeds the call of the ref and rolls back into the ring. Orton crawls to the corner, trying to recover, but here comes Jeff... pushing himself up with the ropes... to strike with HARDYAC ARREST! Orton is dazed as he staggers back to his feet, where Hardy is ready and waiting... boot to the midsection... then up and down with a SITOUT INVERTED SUPLEX SLAM! Orton is driven face first into the mat, rolled over, and now Hardy hooks the leg...

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ORTON KICKS OUT!

And straight from the pinfall attempt, Orton decides he's had enough as he rolls under the bottom rope and flops to the floor, down on his hands and knees, breathing heavily, caught completely off guard. Jeff looks to head towards the outside, but this time the ref succeeds in keeping him in the ring, the count starting on Orton. Orton slowly manages to drag himself back to his feet, but instead of returning to the ring, Orton decides he's had enough as he shouts “Screw this!” and waves off the match! Heading towards the timekeeper's desk, Orton snatches his briefcase, then he starts to head towards the exit... but he doesn't see Hardy fly through the air... wiping Orton out with a PLANCHA!! Orton is down again, the briefcase goes flying, and with all the momentum behind him, Jeff tosses Orton back into the ring. Looking to capitalise, Hardy nips up onto the apron, then slings himself onto the rope, looking for a SPRINGBOARD CLOTHESLINE... but out of desperation, Orton counters in mid-air... and HAMMERS HARDY WITH A DROPKICK! Jeff crashes and burns, laid flat out on the canvas, and after taking a few moments to recover, Orton crawls into a lateral press...

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HARDY ROLLS A SHOULDER!

Taking his time and shaking away the cobwebs, Orton slowly drags himself to a vertical base, a sick look in his eyes as he aims a stomp at Hardy's leg, then systematically stomps his way around Jeff's body. A pair of kneedrops to the face follow, before Orton yanks Hardy up then drills him with an uppercut that causes Jeff to fall against the ropes. Another uppercut connects, followed by a right hand to the head, before a boot to the midsection doubles Jeff over, allowing Orton to club him on the back of the neck with a forearm. Orton then goes for an Irish whip off the opposite side… but Hardy reverses… and then catches Orton with a kick to the midsection… before he yanks Orton in, hooks him up… TWIST OF FATE… NO! Hardy spins, but Orton spins right through it, then catches Jeff from behind… INVERTED BACKBREAKER! Orton takes Hardy down, and he drives a forearm into Hardy’s face as he hooks the leg…

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HARDY KICKS OUT!

Orton doesn’t hid his frustration as he glares at the referee, but he’s quickly back on the attack as he drags Jeff up and shoves him into the corner. With a cold look in his eyes, Orton starts laying in with boots to the gut, then a trio of right hands to the face. Orton then rears back, and fires Hardy across the ring… and the vicious impact causes Hardy to crumple to his knees and slump to the canvas. A devilish smirk is on Orton’s face as he slowly strides towards Jeff, looking out into the crowd, soaking in the boos of the fans, before he grabs a handful of hair and pulls Hardy up. In the corner again, Orton looks to repeat the trick as he again rears back and fires Jeff across the ring… but this time Hardy hits the turnbuckle and stays on his feet. Caught off guard, Orton races across the ring… but Hardy gets a boot up to the face! Orton stumbles back, and here comes Hardy fighting out of the corner, striking with right hands, before he looks to send Orton off the ropes… but Orton reverses… then catches Hardy with a POWERSLAM! Orton’s sure he’s got it won as he crawls into the lateral press…

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HARDY BARELY GETS A SHOULDER UP!

This time Orton’s frustration nearly boils over as he burst back to his feet, demanding the three count, but being told it was only two. Regaining his composure, Orton drops down, and he locks on that trademark chinlock of his. Orton locks the hold on tightly, wrenching on the neck, squeezing and applying pressure, trying his best to wear Hardy down. Orton violently wrenches Hardy's head back and forth, and slowly but surely, Hardy begins to show signs of passing out as he slumps towards the canvas. Orton continues to apply pressure, even reaching out with his feet and hooking them on the bottom rope, increasing the tension, causing Jeff to kick and splutter, with Orton bringing his feet away just before he's caught by the referee. Jeff continues to drift away, so much so that Orton smirks once again, confident that he has Hardy exactly where he wants him... until the crowd start to rally, stomping their feet, clapping their hands, willing Hardy back into the match, and with a surge of life, Jeff manages to push himself back to a seated position. Hardy claws at Orton's hands, but the grip remains tight, so Jeff forces himself back to a knee, then back onto his feet, trying to fight free as he drives an elbow to the midsection... and another... and a third... but Orton still hangs on... until a SITOUT JAWBREAKER finally breaks the hold!

The impact causes Orton to stumble back into the corner, and after shaking off the cobwebs, Hardy follows in, scoring with right hands to the face, before he shoves Orton against the ropes and goes for an Irish whip... Orton reverses... but Hardy hangs on and yanks Orton back in... SHORT ARM FALLING CLOTHESLINE! Hardy connects, but Orton is right back up... Jeff scores with a JUMPING FOREARM! Again Orton staggers up, reeling from the attack, and Hardy lands more right hands, backing Orton to the corner. Hardy looks to fire Orton across the ring... but Orton reverses... only for Jeff to run up the corner... and fly with WHISPER IN THE WIND! Hardy gets all of it, and he crawls over to hook the leg...

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ORTON ROLLS A SHOULDER!

So close, but now the momentum has shifted in Hardy's favour, he's wasting no time in getting back to his feet, waiting for Orton to rise... Jeff goes for a boot to the midsection... but Orton catches it... Jeff fires back with a MULE KICK! Orton is down in prime position, and the crowd are on their feet as Hardy heads outside then climbs upstairs, readying himself for the SWANTON BOMB... NO! ORTON ROLS UNDER THE BOTTOM ROPE TO SAFETY! The crowd may boo, but it's great strategy from Orton as he avoids the danger... but wait, Jeff spins on the top rope... then flies... DIVING CROSSBODY TO THE FLOOR!! Hardy takes a huge risk, but it pays off big time as he takes Orton down, the crowd marvelling at Hardy's daredevil antics. Both men are down on the outside, laid out on the floor, but somehow after a quick check by the ref, Jeff manages to drag himself up. Reaching down, Hardy pulls Orton up and rolls him under the bottom rope, and then Jeff climbs up and heads for the corner. One more time Hardy climbs upstairs, and once again he's looking for the SWANTON BOMB... BUT THIS TIME ORTON SHOVES THE REFEREE INTO THE ROPES... AND JEFF CROTCHES HIMSELF ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE... THEN FALLS DOWN TO THE FLOOR! A brutal landing for Hardy, and as he lays on the canvas, it seems Orton has had enough as he shouts for the count to begin, more than happy to take the countout victory.

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There's very little sign of life from Hardy as he lays face down on the floor, while in the ring, Orton sits in the corner, leaning against the bottom turnbuckle, breathing heavily as he tries to recover...

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But now Hardy makes a move, crawling towards the ring, reaching up to grab the apron, somehow managing to pull himself back up onto his knees...

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Hardy manages to make it back up onto the apron, but before he can re-enter the ring, Orton pounces, barging past the referee, grabbing Hardy round the neck, yanking him through the ropes... FOR THE ROPE HUNG DDT!! A sickening sights as Orton plants Hardy into the canvas, and it's all over as far as 'Mr. Money in the Bank' is concerned as he casually drapes an arm across Jeff's chest to get the...

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HARDY SOMEHOW KICKS OUT!

Orton is furious at the kickout, storming back to his feet, getting right in the ref's face, screaming for the three count, only to be reassured that it was only two. Orton is beside himself as he runs his hands across his head, franticly pacing the ring... until just like that, the cold look returns to his eyes as he looks down on Hardy. With malice in mind, Orton heads to the corner, drops down onto all four, pounding his fists off the canvas, readying himself, lying in wait, poised to strike as he waits for Hardy to stir. Slowly Jeff stirs, struggling, but managing to get back to his feet... and here comes Orton... RKO... NO! Hardy shoves Orton into the ropes, and when Orton rebounds, he's meet with a boot to the gut... and then Hardy hooks him up... TWIST OF FATE! HARDY NAILS THE TWIST OF FATE!! Orton is down, and the crowd are on their feet, cheering loudly as Hardy foregoes the pinfall attempt, and instead he's heading for the ropes. Climbing through them, Hardy drags himself to the top turnbuckle, lets out a yell, then he flies... SWANTON BOMB... NO! ORTON ROLLS OUT OF HARM'S WAY!! HARDY CRAHSES AND BURNS! The force and momentum of the missed swanton causes Hardy to stumble back to his feet, grabbing his neck and back in agony, and when he turns around, Orton is ready and waiting... RKO!! A devastating RKO, and this time Orton takes no chances as he hooks both legs tight...

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!!!

Winner: And STILL ‘Mr. Money in the Bank’, Randy Orton @ 11.02

A gutsy performance from Hardy, but Orton grabs the win, retaining his briefcase in the process. Back on his feet in a hurry, Orton snatches his hand away as the ref tries to raise it, then he yanks the briefcase into his possession, holding high above his head in celebration. As Jeff writhes on the mat in pain, Orton takes a quick glance at the briefcase, then looks down at the fallen Hardy, clearly considering going against Linda McMahon’s ruling by using the briefcase as a weapon... but then he stops, thinks again, and with a callous smirk, Orton simply steps over Hardy and heads for the ropes, dropping outside. In the ring, Jeff manages to push himself onto his knees, the disappointment in his eyes clear to see, while the camera focuses on the relieved Money in the Bank holder as we cut backstage.

Where once again Todd Grisham is standing by, ready for another interview...


Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time... he is the man who later tonight will challenge Rob Van Dam for the WWE Championship... John Cena!

A very loud, but as always, very mixed response as John Cena steps forward. Cena acknowledges Grisham with a quick nod of the head, but from the stern look on Cena’s face, it’s clear he’s not in his usual jovial mood...

Todd Grisham: John, when you lost the WWE Championship back at Raw: Night of Champions, by order of Mr. McMahon, you never received a rematch or a chance to regain the title. You and Rob Van Dam both campaigned for that match to happen, and now that it’s here, how are you feeling about the upcoming match, and of course, how are you feeling after the attack you suffered last Monday night on Raw?

Pausing, Cena rubs the back of his head and neck, tensing up his jaw, before he finally answers…

John Cena: How am I feelin’? Well, let’s see. My head kinda hurts, my neck hurts, truth be told, I’m feelin’ pretty banged up right now. Now, I didn’t see who it was that attacked me last Monday night. The coward jumped me from behind and left me layin’ there. But… I’m pretty sure we all know who it was and who gave the order to carry it out.

Cena ruefully smiles as he lays the blame firmly on Vince and Lashley…

John Cena: I dunno if Vince and Lashley wanted to take me out, knowing that at such short notice, Lashley would be the only guy left to face ‘RVD’. Well, if that was their plan… it didn’t work one – little – bit.

Pop from inside the arena as Cena speaks with intensity…

John Cena: If anythin’, it’s made me more determined to fight through the pain, to battle on, and give these Rob Van Dam, and more importantly, these fans the fight they deserve tonight. Don’t think ‘cause I’m banged up that I ain’t gonna be givin’ this all I got. Rob… you say you wanted John Cena at 100%, no doubts, no controversy, no questions asked. Well… you got ‘im.

Another pop…

John Cena: I ain’t gonna ask any questions, I ain’t gonna make no excuses, ya’ wanted me at my very best, and that’s exactly what you’re gonna get tonight! You and me Rob, we wanted this fight, and now it’s here, the partnership goes out the window, and I’m comin’ after you and that WWE Championship. Win or lose, you’ll have your answer Rob, you’ll know just exactly what kinda champion you’re gonna be.

Cena stares deep into the camera, a real sense of seriousness to his words…

John Cena: And one last thing. Vince, Lashley… this ain’t your fight. You stay the hell outta this. But if you can’t resist… well, if ya’ want some… come get some.

The fans join in for the end of the catchphrase, with an intense Cena again clenching his jaw, staring into the camera, allowing the look to linger, and it’s on a close up of Cena’s face that we head back into the arena.

Where once again we see our announce team…


Joey Styles: Certainly a very intense John Cena there, and I’m sure that Cena is gonna be a huge challenge for ‘RVD’, regardless of how healthy he’s feelin’. But right now folks, it’s time for one of the most personal rivalries in WWE history to come to a head.

Jerry Lawler: Oh boy, I can’t wait to see this! Shawn Michaels, Triple H, two former members of D-Generation X, and best friends to boot, but at Raw: Night of Champions, it all fell apart, and now they’re set for a No Holds Barred Match.

Jim Ross: Let’s take you back and see how it all escalated. D-X fell apart, and now, Michaels and ‘The Game’ are set to collide… in ‘The Final Battle’.

*Video Package*


Our video opens to dark, overcast footage from the January 15th edition of Raw, where during a tense stand-off between the two, Triple H asks Shawn Michaels the echoing question of...

”I believe in DX Shawn... do you?”

We now cut to later that evening, where during a World Tag Team Championships Match, Shawn Michaels yanks a steel chair from Edge’s hands, and he swings at Edge... only for Edge to duck... MICHAELS ACCIDENTLY NAILS TRIPLE H!! The Game crashes to the mat, with Michaels having a look of sheer disbelief on his face...

Jim Ross: Somehow, someway, Edge and Randy Orton have managed to win this match and keep their titles.

Jerry Lawler: Yeah and in the process, they've just killed off DX forever!

Fast forward to February 5th and Raw: Night of Champions, where during the WWE Championship Triple Threat Match, Shane McMahon and a host of security guards hit the ring to take out John Cena, with Michaels and ‘The Game’ storming the ring, the former DX members working in tandem... steel chair... sledgehammer... another steel chair shot! The security guards are all dispatched, with the crowd in raptures as ‘The Game roars his approval... until...

BANG!!


”OH MY GAAWWD!!”

The crowd is stunned...

”GOOD GAWD ALMIGHTY! WHAT THE HELL JUST HAPPENED?!”

As Shawn Michaels...

”HE DID IT ON PURPOSE THAT TIME!”

HAS JUST NAILED TRIPLE H WITH THE STEEL CHAIR!!!

The Game’ crashes to the mat instantly, with Michaels releasing his grip on the chair... then dropping to both knees... and draping himself over Triple H... just in time for the referee to crawl back into the ring...

1...

2...

3!!!!

Winner: And NEW WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels @ 18.12


Jim Ross: SHAWN MICHAELS IS THE NEW WWE CHAMPION! WHAT THE HELL IS SHAWN MICHAELS THINKIN’!?

The February 12th episode of Raw where Michaels makes his first appearance as WWE Champion and addresses his actions from the previous week...

Shawn Michaels: I am finished with DX... I am finished with Triple H... and I am finished... which EACH - AND EVERY - ONE OF YOU!

Quick fire clips of disappointed fans, booing and shaking their heads dejectedly, which then transitions into the scene from the February 19th Raw where Michaels smacks Jim Ross with some Sweet Chin Music, the impact of the kick bringing in the words...

”I am the WWE Champion... but I am not YOUR WWE Champion.”

And now we see highlights from Saturday Night’s Main Event on March 3rd, where Triple H and Rob Van Dam battle for the right to face Michaels at WrestleMania XXIII for the WWE Championship. Michaels comes down to ringside for a closer view, only for ‘The Game’ to go after him, the pair brawling around the ring as we hear Triple H say...

”ONE MORE WIN... AND I’M COMIN’ FOR YA’!”

After the brawl, Michaels slips into the ring and tries to take Triple H’s head off, but ‘The Game’ ducks... and Michaels nails ‘RVD’ with Sweet Chin Music! Michaels accidently hands the WrestleMania spot to his enemy!

But on the March 5th episode of Raw, Triple H and Van Dam have a rematch, which Van Dam wins, leading to Michaels sliding into the ring...

Van Dam struggles to his feet... and turns...

BANG!

Sweet... chin... music!

In a split second the euphoric feeling of the crowd is drained as Michaels smashes his heel off Van Dam's jaw. Van Dam doesn't look anything like a winner as he plummets to the mat, eyes glazed over from the impact of the kick. The crowd hammers Michaels with boos as he stands over Van Dam, that robotic look in his eyes back again. Michaels quickly turns though, as out of the corner of his eye he sees Triple H back on his feet...

BANG!

'The Game' suffers the same fate as Van Dam as he too tastes sweet chin music! Trips hits the mat with a thud, landing close to Van Dam, the triumphant WWE Champion stood over them both. The crowd continues to shit all over Michaels' actions, but the WWE Champion ignores the boos, his focus solely on Van Dam and 'The Game' as he casually tips his black cowboy hat in both their directions...


Shawn Michaels: So when I walked down to that ring last Saturday night, I had a choice to make. I held the power to control your fates, I was in charge of your destinies, I had your futures in my grasp. You could almost say... that at that very moment, I... was like a God.

More rapid fire shots of the two brawling in the run up to the big show, and then we see WrestleMania XXIII, where a triumphant Van Dam stands on the second rope, holding the WWE Title high in the air as Joey Styles makes the call...

”ROB VAN DAM IS THE NEW WWE CHAMPION!”

And the final images from WrestleMania are that of the despondent Michaels and Triple H, both men clearly angry with defeat. From this, the video takes a rather dramatic twist, the bright lights of WrestleMania replaced by the dark, brooding Michaels from the April 2nd Raw, were Michaels stands in the ring, microphone in hand...

Shawn Michaels: WrestleMania XXIII... for one reason or another... didn’t make me happy.

’The Game’ comes down to the ring, the two squaring off, with the footage switching back and forth between the two as they say...

”TRIPLE H... I... MUST STRIKE THEE DOWN.”

“YOU OUGHTA BE THANKIN’ ‘RVD’ FOR SAVIN’ YOUR ASS!”

“YOU TRIPLE H... MUST SUFFER MY... BACKLASH!”

“THERE’S NOBODY LEFT TO SAVE YOUR ASS... NOT EVEN YOUR BUDDY UPSTAIRS!”

“THAT’S WHY WE’VE GOTTA FINISH THIS ONCE AND FOR ALL.”

“IF WE’RE GONNA END THIS, IT’S GONNA HAVE TO BE NO – HOLDS – BARRED!”


More quick fire clips, this time a rapid representation of their careers together, from the D-X days, to the epic Street Fight and Hell in a Cell they fought against each other, to the D-X reunion, until one final face to face, where Shawn Michaels simply tips his cowboy hat in Triple H’s direction and we hear ‘The Game’ slowly say...

Triple H: Backlash... ‘The Final Battle’... I’m gonna end him.

And one final look into the cold, lifeless eyes of Shawn Michaels, and as ‘HBK’ slowly closes his eyes, the video ever so slowly fades... to... black.

*End Video Package*

Back into the arena, where Lillian Garcia is stood alone in the ring, waiting for the ring of the bell before she speaks...

Lillian Garcia: The following contest is the NO HOLDS BARRED MATCH!! In this match, there are no countouts, no disqualifications, with the only way to win being via pinfall or submission.

After a pop from the fans...

*SEXY BOY...*

The arena erupts with deafening heat as slowly, coldly, Shawn Michaels makes his way into the arena. Dressed in all black as we've become accustomed to in recent months, Michaels has that cowboy hat of his pulled down low over his eyes, meaning we don't get a true look of him until he drops to his knees, holds his arms out wide and lifts his head to the heavens in silent prayer...


Lillian Garcia: Introducing first, from San Antonio, Texas. Weighing in at 225lbs... 'THE HEARTBREAK KID'... SHAAAAAAWWWWNNNNN... MIIICHAELLLLLSSSSSSS!!

Back on his feet, Michaels slowly heads down the aisle, not exchanging any glances or words to the ringside fans who boo him loudly, not a single hint of emotion as he climbs the steps and enters the ring...

Jim Ross: We've talked about plenty in the past, but every time I see this man walk down the aisle, I just stared in disbelief at the change, the metamorphosis of Shawn Michaels. I remember when a time when Shawn would engage these fans, he would do whatever it took to make them happy. It couldn't be further from that for this incarnation of 'The Heartbreak Kid'.

Joey Styles: Shawn Michaels has said it all along. He's selfish, he does what he believe will make him happy, and he does what he believes in right in the eyes of God. But to threaten to end Triple H's career, to cripple him, to bring his family into this, there's not a God in heaven who would want that.

Jerry Lawler: The guy is just deranged. As much as it pains me to say it, I hope somethin' happens to Shawn right here in this match, to finally make him wake up and realise what the hell he's doin'. Maybe a sledgehammer shot to the head would finally knock some sense into 'im.

”BEHOLD THE KING... THE KING OF KINGS...”

*THE GAME...*

Memphis goes wild as 'The Cerebral Assassin' himself Triple H enters the frey, looking more focused and determined than ever before. Stopping just inside the entrance way, 'The Game' soaks in the cheers of the audience, letting them build into a frenzy, before he takes a sip of water, sprays it into the air and then bursts down towards the ring...


Lillian Garcia: Introducing next, his opponent. From Greenwich, Connecticut. Weighing in at 255lbs... 'THE GAME'... TRIPPLLLLLLLEEEE... HHHHHHHHHHH!!

As he approaches the ring, 'The Game' comes to a stop, his eyes locked in on Michaels, but 'HBK' has head lowered, standing firm in the corner. Trips nips up onto the apron, and after taking a quick look over his shoulder, he takes another sip and lets out another bursts of water, posing for the fans...

Jim Ross: If known this man for close to fifteen years now. I can honestly say, I've never seen 'The Game' look so intense, look so focused as he does right now. This isn't gonna be a classic wrestlin' match folks, this is gonna be a fight, and for me, that's right up Triple H's alley.

Jerry Lawler: Certainly you gotta give Triple H the advantage with regards to that, but with the frame of mind Shawn Michaels is in, who knows what he could be capable of. This whole believe in the Lord stuff could push Shawn over the edge.

Joey Styles: I think the very personal nature of this rivalry could do the exact same thing for Triple H. We've seen in the past what he's capable of. We all remember what he's done to Mick Foley, to Chris Jericho, to so many great names in this industry. But could Michaels have driven 'The Game' to a level he never knew existed? If he has... I think it's game over for 'The Heartbreak Kid'.






'The Final Battle'
No Holds Barred Match:

Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H

When the bell rings, despite the outpouring of cheers from the crowd, there’s no immediate urgency from either man, both remaining in their corners, the eyes of ‘The Game’ burning a hole through Michaels, while ‘HBK’ keeps his head bowed low, before he finally locks eyes with his nemesis. Slowly the pair inch towards the centre of the ring, the two pausing, face to face, with Trips having a few words, but only getting silence in return. Still the talk continues, but still there’s no response from Michaels, a fact that almost frustrates ‘The Game’ as he shakes his head and turns ever so slightly away… a chance Michaels takes to throw a right hand… which Triple H blocks… and then rattles off a massive right of his own! The bombs start to fly, backing Michaels to the ropes, where Trips goes for the Irish whip… Michaels reverses… and swings a clothesline… but Triple H ducks underneath and keeps on running… RUNNING KNEE STRIKE! Michaels stumbles back to his feet and into the ropes… only for a big RUNNING CLOTHESLINE to knock him to the floor!

It doesn’t take long for this fight to spill outside, with ‘The Game’ wasting no time in heading for the floor, smacking a stiff right off Michaels’ head that causes him to stagger up the ramp. Trips follows, landing another right that sees Michaels stumble down the gap between the ramp and barricade, into the space at the foot of the stage. WWE personnel duck for cover as the hard rights continue to land, until Trips grabs Michaels by the hair… and LAUNCHES HIM INTO THE CONTROL DESK!! The soundman is sent flying from his chair, with ‘The Game’ pouncing, mounting Michaels to rain down with stiff shots to the face. It’s a relentless assault, and it’s about to get worse as Trips has Michaels by the hair… and SMACKS HIM FACE FIRST OFF A NEARBY CAMERA!! The force of the shot causes Michaels to drop to his knees, but there’s no let up as Trips rolls him onto the ramp. As Trips climbs up, Michaels is able to get back up, catching ‘The Game’ with a chop to chest, finally landing some offence. Another chop causes Trips to stumble up the ramp onto the stage, Michaels buying some space, only he closes in… right into a BACK BODY DROP ONTO THE STAGE!

A loud pop drowns out the groans of pain from Michaels, but still the assault continues as 'HBK' is yanked back up, a big right hand sending him tumbling down the ramp in comical fashion. Triple H follows, then rolls Michaels back into the ring, before 'The Game' starts rummaging under the ring, looking for weapons. A pair of trash cans are launched over the top rope, an oversized stop sign is slid in, a steel chair follows suit. 'The Game' heads back in, seeing a dazed Michaels against the corner... so he lights him up with a KNIFE EDGE CHOP! Another chop, and another, Triple H unloading with stinging shots to the chest, each one followed by a “Wooooo!” from the crowd. Finally relenting, Trips drags Michaels from the corner and fires him off the ropes... into a thunderous RUNNING CLOTHESLINE! 'The Game' drops down for the first cover of the match...

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MICHAELS EASILY KICKS OUT!

From the kickout, Michaels crawls to the corner, trying to recover, but Trips is right on him, landing stiff right hands to the face, before he looks to fire Michaels across the ring... but 'HBK' reverses... Triple H hits the turnbuckle hard... and staggers into a back body drop! Finally Michaels finds a way into the match, wasting no time in picking up one of the trash cans... and CRACKING IT OFF TRIPLE H'S SKULL!! 'The Game' crumples back down to the canvas, and now it's Michaels time to unload, as he repeatedly smacks the trash can off Triple H's shoulder and spine, completely caving the trash can, until it becomes so damaged Michaels has no choice but to toss it away. Frustrated by the flimsiness of the weapon, Michaels goes in search of some stronger hardware, scooping up a steel chair. Despite the searing pain that causes him to tense up his whole body, 'The Game' makes it back to his knees just as Michaels moves in... and before Michaels can swing the chair... Trips burst back to his feet and drives a knee into Michaels' ! Michaels doubles over in agony, dropping the chair, which Tripls quickly grabs... then SMACKS THE CHAIR OFF MICHAELS' SPINE!! The crowd explode for the sickening thud, which causes Michaels to collapse to the mat, and now 'The Game' returns the favour... SMASHING THE CHAIR OFF MICHAELS' SPINE OVER AND OVER AGAIN!! The chair is completely worn out, it too being launched outside, 'The Game' roaring to the crowd who pop to show their approval.

Michaels grimaces in agony, grabbing his lower back, but after taking a few seconds to catch his breath, Trips goes right back to work, yanking Michaels up, then firing him hard to the corner... MICHAELS GOES UPSIDE DOWN INTO THE TURNBUCKLE... and stumbles back out... ANOTHER RUNNING CLOTHESLINE! Michaels is being beaten from pillar to post, crawling to the ropes, using them to somehow drag himself up... and here comes 'The Game'... clothesline over the top rope... no! Michaels LOW BRIDGES... and Triple H goes flying all the way to the floor! A desperate move from Michaels, but one that buys him some time to recover, 'HBK' down in the ring as 'The Game' writhes on the floor. Rolling outside, Michaels now looks to take control, grabbing Triple H by the wrist... for an IRISH WHIP KNEE FIRST INTO THE STEEL STEPS!! The impact causes Trips to go flying over the steps in Undertaker-esque fashion, with it looking like Michaels will finally now build some momentum... but instead he heads towards the Spanish announce desk, ripping off the cover to pull out one of the monitors. Favouring his left knee, it takes an age for Trips to get back on his feet... and when he does... MICHAELS SMACKS THE MONITOR OFF HIS SKULL!!

The eyes of 'The Game' roll to the back of his head as he flops face first onto the floor, Michaels dropping the monitor, pausing for a few seconds, feeling that he has Trips right where he wants him. A few stomps to the injured knee follow, keeping Trips down, and this allows Michaels to hold the monitor in one hand, then grab the cables attached to it with the other... and then rip the cables free! Michaels now looks down on Triple H with cables in his hands, just as 'The Game' makes it back to his knees... Michaels moves in from behind... and WRAPS THE CABLE AROUND TRIPLE H'S THROAT! MICHAELS IS CHOKING 'THE GAME'!! It's a disgusting sound as Triple H coughs and splutters for breath, his face turning blue, desperately trying to escape, but Shawn Michaels is quite literally choking the life out of his former best friend. “Jesus Christ! You're gonna kill 'im!” bellows J.R. in a feeble attempt to reason with Michaels, but even with the referee pleading with him, there's no let up from Michaels as he continues the choke, Triple H's body going almost completely limp, until finally, Michaels releases his grip and allows 'The Game' to collapse back down to the floor. No emotion, no remorse from Michaels, clearly convinced he's caused Triple H to pass out, and it looks like it too as Michaels tries to drag the lifeless body of 'The Game' back up, but Michaels struggles with the dead weight of Triple H's frame. After a struggle, Michaels finally gets Trips back up and rolls him under the bottom rope. Michaels follows in and crawls over to drape an arm across the chest...

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TRIPLE H GETS A SHOULDER UP!

Much to the disbelief of 'HBK', there's still life left in 'The Game'! The length of time it took Michaels to get Triple H back in the ring has cost him, and now Michaels looks like he's seen a ghost, refusing to believe it as he goes for the pinfall again, this time hooking the leg...

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KICK OUT BY 'THE GAME'!!

An incensed Michaels storms back to his feet, staring intently at the referee, but it's no use, it remains a two count. With 'The Game' still down, choking and coughing, grabbing his throat, struggling to breathe, Michaels has plenty of time to head back outside and once again grab the cables that he used moments ago. Sliding back in, the fans fear the worse as 'HBK' stands over 'The Game', but instead of wrapping the cable around Triple H's throat, Michaels instead wraps one of the cables around Trips' left wrist... and then drags Triple H towards the ropes... where he ties the wrist tightly to the top rope! 'The Game' is now starting to come back to his senses, and a sense of panic takes over as he sees Michaels wrap cable around his other wrist, pull the arms apart, opening up Trips' body... and then Michaels ties the other wrist to the top rope! Triple H is trapped against the ropes! “It's almost biblical!” says Styles for the manor in which 'The Game' is held captive, and despite the ref trying to loosen the cable, Triple H can only stand and watch as Michaels drops outside and starts looking under the ring... and after a few seconds... 'HBK' brings out a kendo stick!

The crowd gasp in fear, knowing what's coming up, with Michaels heading back into the ring, an evil smirk on his face as he looks down upon the sitting duck that is Triple H. Michaels grabs the referee by the shirt collar, yanking him down to the mat, stopping his efforts to free Trips. All Triple H can do is try and kick out, but 'HBK' manages to avoid it... then DRILLS THE KENDO STICK INTO THE MIDSECTION!! A vicious shot, and there's no protection for Triple H... as MICHAELS STRIKES AGAIN... AND AGAIN... AND AGAIN... AND ANOTHER SHOT TO THE GUT!! The crowd wince and boo, 'The Game' groans in agony, while Michaels lines him up... holds the stick high in the air... and DRIVES IT DOWN ON TRIPLE H'S SKULL!! A sickening shot right between the eyes, and almost instantly, a trickle of BLOOD starts to pour down Triple H's forehead. That last shot seems to have really taken it out of 'The Game' as he tries to shake the blood away as it pours down his face, but Michaels doesn't care as he now stands to the side... and SMACKS THE CANE OFF OF TRIPLE H'S LEFT KNEE!! The knee injured earlier in the match is subjected to more damage... as MICHAELS LANDS A SECOND SHOT TO THE KNEE... AND THEN A THIRD!!

The third swing causes the knee to buckle, Triple H losing his balance and dropping down onto his knees, completely helpless against the ropes. No remorse from Michaels though, who knows moves in and presses the stick against Triple H's throat, once again choking 'The Game'. The pair are eye to eye, their faces mere inches from each other, the camera right there to hear Michaels say “It didn't have to be like this Hun'er. I tried to help you!”, Michaels finally relenting, stepping back. With a bloodstained face, his arms trapped open, the imagery is clear for all to see, and as he looks down on his friend, Michaels seems ready to end it all as he shakes his head, raises the stick up once again... but before he can bring it crashing down... TRIPLE H SWINGS A BOOT... AND KICKS MICHAELS WITH A LOW BLOW!!

Sheer desperation from 'The Game', the crowd erupting in delight as Michaels drops to the mat in agony, his eyes nearly popping from his skull. Seeing his chance to break free, 'The Game' rips at the cable, showing incredible strength as he slowly loosens the grip... then with one final surge he breaks the bonds! Triple H is free again! Michaels has only made it back to his knees, his knees to 'The Game', not realising that Triple H now has the kendo stick in his hands... and when Michaels turns... TRIPLE H DAMN NEAR TAKES HIS HEAD OFF WITH A SHOT TO THE SKULL!! Memphis goes wild as Triple H returns the favour, deadly accurate as he nails Michaels right across the forehead. Michaels is down and out, spread eagled, but 'The Game' isn't finished yet, waiting for Michaels to get back on all fours... for A SHOT ACROSS THE BACK! AND ANOTHER ONE... AND ANOTHER... ANOTHER... IT'S A RELENTLESS ASSAULT! Triple H doesn't care, landing over a dozen shots to the spine with the kendo stick, until the stick finally gives up and splinters into an explosion of wood! Michaels grimaces in pain on the canvas, and manages to roll under the bottom rope in search of a recovery.

'The Game' isn't interested in giving him that chance though, as he too heads outside, limping heavily, but determined to inflict as much pain as possible. Michaels crawls on his knees to the barricade, using it to hoist himself up, but here comes Triple H from behind... to DRIVE MICHAELS SPINE FIRST INTO THE APRON!! 'The Cerebral Assassin' lives up to his moniker as he targets the lower back, Michaels dropping to his knees in pain. Desperate, Michaels tries to crawl to safety, but Trips is right there, grabbing Michaels by the hair... and DRIVING HIM FACE FIRST OFF THE STEEL STEPS! Michaels does his best Ric Flair flop to the floor, drawing a few ironic cheers from the crowd, but 'The Game' is all business as he grabs a handful of hair, yanks Michaels up and delivers a trio of stiff rights to the face. Michaels staggers back, up against the previously dismantled Spanish announce desk... and one last big right... knocks Michaels onto the table! The crowd rises in anticipation, sensing what could be coming, and as Cabrera and Savinovich head for the hills, Triple H steps up onto the table... and he drags Michaels up too! The FedEx Forum is buzzing in anticipation, as 'The Game' yanks Michaels' head between his legs, hooks up the arms... PEDIGREE... NO! Michaels struggles out of it, and he swings a trio of wild, desperate right hands to the face, then drills a knee to the midsection. Teetering on the table, 'The Game' grabs his ribs in agony due to the kendo stick assault, but now here comes Michaels... SWEET CHIN MUSIC... NO! Triple H grabs the foot! Michaels flails his arms wildly, but he's stuck on the announce desk... Triple H lets go of the foot as he spins 'HBK' around... KICK... UNDERHOOK THE ARMS... PEDIGREE THROUGH THE SPANISH ANNOUNCE TABLE!!!!

“HOLY SHIT!! HOLY SHIT!! HOLY SHIT!!”

The table explodes as Michaels is driven face first through it, both men down and out, sprawled amongst the wreckage of it all. Memphis responds with an incredible cheer, but it's clearly taken it's toll on both men as nobody has budged an inch since the impact. The ref moves in, throwing bits of table aside in an attempt to check on the participants, but there's very little sign of life down there. We see a reply of the move in slow motion, with J.R. screaming “That's one of the most hellacious things I've ever seen!”, and when we cut back to the live action, 'The Game' has managed to pick himself free of the wreckage, crawling towards the ring, using it to haul his body back to a vertical stance. Abandoning Michaels for now, Trips limps his way towards the nearest steel steps, ripping the top half from the bottom, showing impressive strength as he muscles them up and into the ring. Stepping through the wreckage, 'The Game' yanks Michaels up and drags him towards the ring, rolls him back inside, then follows in.

Leaving Michaels to pick himself up, 'The Game' grabs hold of the steps, waits for Michaels to rise... then charges... DRIVING THE STEPS INTO MICHAELS' SKULL!! 'HBK' is being decimated, and Memphis is loving it! With Michaels looking completely down and out, Trips carefully drops the steps, lining them up, getting them in the perfect position. Seeking a way to end things once and for all, Trips helps Michaels back up, then walks him towards the steps, 'The Game' stepping up onto the top... and Memphis knows what's in store as Michaels is again yanked between Triple H's legs... PEDIGREE ON THE STEEL STEPS... NO! Michaels counters... with a HUGE BACK BODY DROP! A desperation move from Michaels leads to a painful landing for Triple H, but 'HBK' is in no position to take advantage as he drops down on all fours, breathing heavily and grabbing his lower spine. Michaels is up first, sliding the steps to the far away corner, then he grabs Trips by the wrist, helps him up, and goes for the Irish whip... but Triple H reverses... Michaels ducks underneath a clothesline and keeps on running... FLYING FOREARM SMASH... FOLLOWED BY A KIP UP! Big time for Michaels, who seems to feed off of the boos, as he picks up a nearby steel chair and calls for Triple H to rise... STEEL CHAIR SHOT TO THE SKULL!

Another vicious blow landed between these two, but Michaels is building momentum now, wasting no time in grabbing 'The Game' by the ankle... then PLACING IT BETWEEN THE STEEL CHAIR! The fans “Ooooh!” in despair, and the fears deepen as Michaels heads outside, then climbs upstairs... steadies himself... and flies... FLYING ELBOWDROP... ONTO THE STEEL CHAIR... ONTO THE ANKLE!! Michaels sacrifices his own body to do damage to 'The Game'! Triple H screams and groans in absolute agony, his ankle no doubt shattered into pieces, writhing in the mat in torture. Michaels pushes himself back to his knees, that cold, blank expression on his face as he simply turns his eyes towards the heavens, looking into the rafters for a few seconds, only God knows what's going through his head right now. With Triple H still rooted to the canvas, Michaels has all day to size him up, toying with his opponent, until he grabs the injured leg... steps... twists and turns... then drops... FIGURE FOUR LEGLOCK!! “You evil bastard!” is the cry from the commentary team as Michaels subjects Triple H to insurmountable pain!

'The Game' flails his arms wildly, the pain excruciating, head in his hands, his body broken... and yet somehow... he's not tapping. Indeed, Triple H does his best to fight it, the referee pleading with him to quit for his own good... only for Michaels to grab the ref by the collar, pull him in close and shout “I don't want 'im to quit... I want 'im to suffer!”, much to the disgust of our commentators. Almost on instinct, Triple H reaches for the ropes, but it's no use as under No Holds Barred rules, Michaels wouldn't have to break the hold. The anguish and agony being suffered is incredible, but still 'The Game' tries his best to not pass out from the pain... but it appears like it might be just too much to take as ever so slowly, Triple H's eyes close, his head and body slump to the mat... his shoulders drop... no! A surge of power, and Triple H forces his shoulders off the canvas! Michaels can't believe it as Trips searches for a way to break free... and it looks like he might have found it as he tries... and strains... and twists... until finally TRIPLE H REVERSES THE HOLD! REVERSE FIGURE FOUR LEGLOCK ON MICHAELS!! Now it's 'HBK' who screams in pain, but he quickly manages to break the hold, freeing up both men's legs.

Unable to stand, somehow Triple H forces his body towards the ropes, using them to pull himself up, just as Michaels moves back in... right hand from 'The Game'! Michaels is caught off guard, but throws a right of his own... blocked... another right from Triple H! Limping, practically hopping on one leg, Triple H lands right after right to back Michaels across the ring, then goes for the Irish whip... FALLING CLOTHESLINE! Somehow, 'The Game' now looks to build some momentum, trying to shake some life back into his leg as he again goes for the Irish whip... but Michaels reverses, causing Triple H more pain as he slowly stumbles from the ropes... only for Michaels to lower his head... FACEBREAKER KNEE SMASH! On one leg, Trips is taking the fight to 'HBK'... and he could be about to win it... KICK... PEDIGREE... NO! Michaels fires a punch right into the knee, causing 'The Game' to let go and turn away to the ropes for support... and when he turns back around... Michaels strikes... SWEET CHIN MUSIC! A SWEET CHIN MUSIC OUT OF NOWHERE!! An incredibly brave effort from Triple H, but it's all too much as Michaels drops down into the lateral press for the win...

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NO!!!

HE KICKED OUT! TRIPLE H KICKED OUT! AND MICHAELS CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!

'The Heartbreak Kid' is furious, storming back to his feet and grabbing the ref, shoving him against the turnbuckle, screaming “That was three!”, only to be defiantly told it was just a two count. Running his hands through his hair, Michaels seems to be searching for the answer, and as his eyes latch onto the steel steps, it looks like he might have it. Dragging the steps back to the centre of the ring, Michaels lays them just behind 'The Game' and then heads for the corner... where he starts to TUNE UP THE BAND! The crowd boo loudly, but with each boo, Michaels' stomps grow louder and louder, 'The Game' using the steps to push himself back up... and here comes Michaels... SWEET CHIN MUSIC... NO! TRIPLE H COUNTERS... DOUBLE A SPINEBUSTER... ONTO THE STEEL STEPS!!!

Memphis goes wild as 'HBK' is driven onto the cold, hard steel, 'The Game' pulling out an incredible counter to stay in the match. Neither man moves much, but eventually Trips crawls to the ropes, using them to pull himself up, and now he waits for Michaels to rise. Rolling from the steel, 'HBK' takes what feels like an eternity, but eventually his rubber legs help him back up... and then he turns... into the the clutches of 'The Game'... PEDIGREE!! MICHAELS IS DRIVEN FACE FIRST INTO THE CANVAS WITH THE PEDIGREE!!! It's all over, as Triple H rolls Michaels over and drapes an arm across his body...

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NO!!!

MICHAELS KICKS OUT OF THE PEDIGREE!!

The FedEx Forum is in shock as Shawn Michaels hows incredible resiliency to hang in there, with Lawler quipping “God only knows how he managed to kick out of that one!”, a sentiment echoed by 'The Game'. Nobody in the arena can quite believe it, and as he sits up, neither can Triple H, who runs a hand through his hair and slaps the canvas. Instead of heading back to his feet, Trips rolls under the bottom rope, still struggling to walk, but somehow he manages to walk around the ring... until he stops, reaches under the ring... and PULLS OUT THE SLEDGEHAMMER!! Memphis pops yet again as Triple H holds his trusty weapon high in the air for all to see, a look of menace in his eyes as he heads back into the ring. Using the sledgehammer almost as a crutch, propping himself upright, while Michaels crawls towards the ropes, needing them to get back up. Back on his feet, 'HBK' stumbles and turns... TRIPLE H DRIVES THE HEAD OF THE SLEDGEHAMMER INTO THE MIDSECTION! Michaels doubles over in pain, grabbing his midsection... ONLY FOR TRIPS TO DRIVE THE HEAD OF THE SLEDGEHAMMER INTO MICHAELS' SPINE!!!

The damage done to Michaels' back causes him to drop to his knees, and despite only having one good leg, Triple H is in prime position to finish things off. Looking down on his helpless former friend, there's almost a hint of compassion, or regret that it had to come to this... but that doesn't stop 'The Game' as he raises the sledgehammer high in the air... and prepares to take one final swing to finish things once and for all... but before he swings... Michaels grabs the referee... and PULLS HIM INTO THE LINE OF FIRE!! Triple H... puts on the breaks, stopping himself just in time... and then Michaels shoves the ref forward... into Triple H... his knee gives way, causing him to fall... and DROP THE SLEDGEHAMMER! The crowd can't believe, Shawn Michaels was willing to sacrifice the referee to save himself! With the sledgehammer up for grabs, Michaels makes his move, picking it up... and then he sees Triple H rise... THE HEAD OF THE SLEDGEHAMMER IS DRIVEN INTO TRIPLE H'S INJURED KNEE!!

Sick, sadistic, a brutal shot from Michaels, one which leaves Triple H writhing on the mat in agony once again. With his leg in bits, there's no chance 'The Game' can make it back to his feet now, barely able to get back to his knees. Michaels grabs a handful of hair, pulling Triple H onto his knees, holding his head in position, before he wipes the blood away from the eyes of 'The Game'. With blood literally on his hands, Michaels shakes his head as he stares down upon his fallen former friend... and he utters the words... “It didn't have to be this way...”, a line which he repeats over and over... until Triple H raises both hands high above his head... and in one last, final act of defiance... GIVES MICHAELS A D-X CHOP!! The crowd roar their approval... but it's all too little too late... as Michaels raises the SLEDGEHAMMER HIGH IN THE AIR... AND THEN BRINGS IT CRASHING DOWN ON TRIPLE H'S SKULL!!

A vile, sickening shot to Triple H's cranium, and as Michaels tosses the sledgehammer aside... a smile finally crosses his face... and he looks like the weight of the world has been lifted from his shoulders as he drops down for the...

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!!!

Winner: Shawn Michaels @ 22.03

Finally, mercifully, it's over, the FedEx Forum in a stunned hush of silence, nobody quite sure of how to react. Neither man has moved an inch, both still down, motionless on the canvas, Michaels' arm still draped across the chest of 'The Game', with referee Mike Chioda franticly waving to the back, calling for help.

There's no announcement from Lillian, too caught up in the brutality of it all, with medics and EMTs rushing stretchers down to the ring, with trainers quickly in to roll Michaels away, and then they move to check on the neck of Triple H. Michaels is also tended to, but he shows signs of life as he arrogantly shoves a doctor aside, pushing himself onto his elbows.

Working quickly, the medical staff strap a neck brace on 'The Game', then gingerly move him onto a stretcher, but before they can wheel him away, a panic stricken Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley races towards them, tears streaming down her face, a frantic and desperate woman as she calls for her husband to respond to her pleas.

As Stephanie continues to yell “Hunter!” in a desperate attempt to garner a response, in the corner, Michaels manages to roll under the bottom rope onto his feet, a referee helping him stay upright. Slowly Michaels walks around the ring and towards the aisle, bringing him right next to where Stephanie and 'The Game' are. Seeing his former best friend lying broken, bloodied battered on the stretcher, Michaels shoves away the referee that props him up, then he yanks an EMT from behind, tossing him down to the concrete.

A few more bodies are shoved aside, until Michaels stands over 'The Game', looking down on him, still no signs of emotion in his eyes. Stephanie screams for Michaels to leave Triple |H along, but 'HBK' barely notices her, shutting her out, simply looking down. The arena braces itself, not sure what Michaels has in mind, until slowly Michaels takes a finger, and taps Triple H on the forehead... and then the middle of his chest... the right of the chest... and then finally the left, finishing the cross.

An eerie boo breaks out in the arena, the fans mostly stunned at what they've just seen, but it's a look of sheer fury on Stephanie's face, and as Michaels moves to walk away... Stephanie SLAPS HIM ACROSS THE FACE! Gasps from the fans, but Michaels barely flinches, until his cold eyes meet Stephanie's the two simply staring at each other. Stephanie looks furious, while Michaels continues to look in a world of his own, but everyone in the arena is on edge, wondering just what 'HBK' might do in response... until he simply nods in Stephanie's direction... then turns... and walks backstage.

Cold blooded, and with no remorse, Michaels turns his back on the stretcher and heads up the aisle. The EMTs and medics move in, returning to the stretcher, realising that time is of the essence if they're to get Triple H to the hospital, and it's on the image of the broken Triple H and his tearful wife disappearing backstage that we fade into a video.


*Video Package*

We open to the sound of waves washing up on the shore, the call of seagulls in the air as we see the sun setting, giving a beautiful orange glow across a picturesque beach, the opening guitar rift of AC/DC’s “Heat Seeker” rising in the background...

Narrator: While for many summer is a time to party...

We see shots of various divas posing in the sea and sand in rather revealing bikinis...

Narrator: For the superstars of the WWE...

Palm trees sway back and forth as several members of the roster casually walk along the beach...

Narrator: The party is over!

The music really kicks in now and we explode into the image of The Undertaker drawing a thumb across his throat...

Narrator: It’s gonna be the hottest night of the year...

John Cena scoops Shane McMahon up onto his shoulders, planting him with the FU...

Narrator: The summer spectacular...

Triple H stands on the apron of the ring, spraying a burst of water into the air and flexing his muscles...

Narrator: Where the sun feels hotter than hell...

Edge runs right through Batista with a thunderous spear...

Narrator: ‘Cause this summer...

And finally Shawn Michaels fires some Sweet Chin Music right down the camera lenses, cracking it and causing a burst of flames to engulf the image...

Narrator: The heat is on!



"WWE SUMMERSLAM - AUGUST 19TH - LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW!"

*End Video Package*


And from the video, we cut straight to the office of Mr. McMahon, who sits on the couch we saw him on earlier, his son Shane McMahon by his side, both men looking concerned, yet at the same time, a nonchalant attitude resonates from them. Off screen, frantic voices are heard, those of Linda McMahon, who desperately tries to get information from Brooke Adams, while in the background, the brooding Bobby Lashley stands ominously against the wall, arms folded across his chest, surveying the scene and taking everything in...

Linda McMahon: ...I need to know how he's doing, what hospital is he going to? Where's Stephanie? Did she go with him? Do we need to find a ride to the hospital to be with him? I need you to find all that out, and I need you to do it in a hurry.

Brooke franticly scribbles what Linda is saying down on her clipboard, and upon finishing says...

Brooke Adams: Yes Mrs. McMahon, I’ll do it right away...

Before she turns and races towards the door to make her exit. Exasperated and racked with worry over the well-being of her son-in-law, Linda rubs a hand across her forehead, before she turns back towards Vince and Shane...

Mr. McMahon: Y'know, she's my Executive Assistant. I don't remember reading any memo that said she worked for you too.

Linda McMahon: How can you sit there and say that at a time like this? You’re son-in-law has just been carried out of that arena on a stretcher with a neck brace and an oxygen mask on, and is probably on his way to the hospital right now... and that’s all you can say?

Standing up from the sofa, McMahon has his hands in his pockets as he offers his wife a simple shrug of the shoulders...

Mr. McMahon: Hunter’s a big boy, he knows the risks that come with this line of work. He wanted that match just as much as Michaels did, and while it’s unfortunate what happened to ‘im... he knew what could happen when he signed up for it.

Almost disgust, Linda shakes her head...

Linda McMahon: I can’t believe you-

Suddenly the door bursts open and in strides a distraught looking Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley, panic stricken and shaking with worry. Stephanie immediately heads over to be comforted by her mother, and even Shane stands up and heads over to check on his sister...

Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley: Mom, Dad, he-he...

Linda McMahon: Stephanie! Where's Hunter? Is he on his way to the hospital?

Stephanie barely manages to nod her head...

Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley: They... they took him in the ambulance. They said I couldn’t go with him. Mom, Dad, I need a ride to the hospital. I need to be with him. I need to know he’s OK.

Snapping to action, Linda nods and places an arm around her daughter, walking the two towards the door as she shouts over her shoulder...

Linda McMahon: Oh, of course. We’ll find somebody to drive us there. Vince, we’ll take your limo. Let’s go.

But instead of following, Vince stands his ground, a stoic look on his face, unmoved and unnerved by all that has happened...

Linda McMahon: Vince?

Linda calls on and motions for her husband to follow, but Vince is steadfast in his refusal to move, looking down at his feet and then slowly shaking his head...

Mr. McMahon: I’m sorry Linda, but uh... well, somebody has to stay behind and make sure the rest of the show goes off without a hitch. And since you and Stephanie are so wrapped up in your personal lives... I guess I’ll have to do it.

Boos from inside the arena, the crowd clearly angry at Vince's refusal to be with his daughter during her time of need...

Linda McMahon: Vince! He’s your son-in-law and he needs us. How can you stand there are say that when your daughter is in a state like this?

Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley: Dad... I need you.

It tugs on the heartstrings, but after pausing for a second, Vince shakes his head once more, clearly feeling that the opportunity to gain control of his company for the night is more important than his family's needs...

Mr. McMahon: I’m sorry Steph... but I’m needed here. You two better run along. Me and Shane’ll stay here and take care of things.

both mother and daughter shakes their heads, with Linda then stepping forward to look Vince dead in the eye...

Linda McMahon: You... are an evil, evil man Vince. I won’t forget this.

And after letting the stare linger for a few seconds, Linda turns and ushers Stephanie from the room, the two clearly on their way to be with Triple H. Shane looks uneasy at his father's defiance, clearly second guessing things...

Shane McMahon: Hey, Dad... don’t you think we shoulda went with ‘em? I mean... Hunter’s family.

A smirk crosses Vince's face as he places a reassuring hand on Shane's shoulder...

Mr. McMahon: Don’t worry about him. We’ll get ‘im the best medical care money can buy. But... with your Mom and your sister outta the way... we can get down to business. Ain’t that right, Bobby?

And in the background, the ominous figure of Lashley starts rubbing his knuckles, an eerie smirk on his face, an uneasy jeer from the crowd as it looks like 'The Evil Genius' is going to get his way after all.

But from the sight of Lashley, we head back into the arena to hear...

*GLAMAZON...*

Not much of a response for Beth Phoenix with the crowd clearly still recovering from the brutality of the previous match, and after some brief posing at the entrance way, Phoenix strides down to the ring...


Lillian Garcia: The following contest, scheduled for one fall, is a Triple Threat Match, and it is for the WWE WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP! Introducing first, from Buffalo, New York, she is ‘THE GLAMAZON’... BETH PHOOEEEENNNIIXXXX!

Hitting the ring, Beth jumps up onto the apron and then straddles the top turnbuckle, before she again poses and then backflips into the ring, ‘The Glamazon’ looking confident and smug, convinced victory is hers tonight...

Jim Ross: That is just deplorable from Vince McMahon. I knew he was heartless, I knew he had no soul, but to look his daughter in the eye like that, at a time when she needs her family most, and tell her that the company is more important than the health of Triple H, it just makes me sick.

Joey Styles: I wouldn't have expected anything less from 'im. With Stephanie and Linda now at the hospital to be with Triple H, that leaves Vince and Lashley free to stick their nose in the upcoming WWE Championship Match. But I guess we'll have to deal with that when the time comes, as we've got another title match right now.

Jerry Lawler: And here comes one of the most impressive divas I can ever remember in 'The Glamazon', Beth Phoenix. I really thought she was gonna become champion back at WrestleMania, but it didn't happen that night... but I think tonight could finally be her night.

*I AIN’T A LADY TO MESS WITH...*

And again not a whole lot of heat as the second challenger in the match, Victoria, heads for the ring, throwing a few words of smack at the fans as she does so...


Lillian Garcia: Introducing next, from San Bernardino, California... VICTORRRIIIAAAAAAA!

As Victoria slides under the bottom rope, her eyes lock with those of Phoenix, the two friends clearly still having some bad feeling from their recent problems, although right now the two appear to be on the same page as they share a nod of the head towards each other...

Joey Styles: And of course, the most interesting dynamic with regards to this match, is that after months of being friends and working together, Beth and Victoria have kinda turned on each other n recent weeks, ever since it was announced that this match would be fought under triple threat rules.

Jerry Lawler: Yeah, but that's what worries me and makes me doubt Mickie James' chances. If Beth and Victoria get on the same page, they can just take Mickie outta things and settle it amongst themselves.

Jim Ross: But as we saw last Monday night on Raw, all is not well between Beth and Victoria, and Mickie took advantage to grab the win in the tag team match. Mickie's gotta hope that the same situation arises tonight.

*OBSESSION...*

And a relatively strong pop heralds the arrival of the Women’s Champion Mickie James, who bounds out from the back and thrusts her title into the air, firing up the fans, before she bounces down to the ring...


Lillian Garcia: And the final participant. From Richmond, Virginia, she is the WWE WOMEN’S CHAMPION... MICKIE JAMESSSSS!

Mickie slides under the bottom rope and takes a long look over her shoulder before she heads for the corner, nipping up to the second rope to salute the crowd before she jumps back down, very wary of the two women stood across from her...

Jim Ross: She's been Women's Champion for almost six months, and she’s beaten both her opponents tonight in singles competition. But now Mickie James has to take on both Beth Phoenix and Victoria in a Triple Threat Match, a match that sees her championship runin more jeopardy than it’s ever been in before.

Jerry Lawler: Oh no doubt. Like I said, I thought it was over at WrestleMania, but now here at Backlash... I just can’t see how Mickie can overcome these odds. I just can’t.

Joey Styles: One thing that can never be doubted about Mickie is her spirit and her will to win. You can’t see a way to win ‘King’, and I know I can’t see it, but if there’s anyone who can do it, it’s the reigning Women’s Champion.






Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match:
Women’s Champion Mickie James vs. Beth Phoenix vs. Victoria

As the bell rings, an uneasy standoff develops between the three competitors, each Diva inching towards each other, feeling each other out. It doesn’t take long for Beth and Victoria to turn to each other and with a knowing glance, they start to move towards the champion, trying to pin Mickie into the corner. The challengers are closing in… but Mickie uses a forward roll to split the pair and find safety… and then springs back to her feet to rock Victoria with a stiff forearm to the head! Now she tags Phoenix with a pair of forearms, only for Beth to shove Mickie to the far away corner. James puts on the breaks, but here comes Phoenix… right into a back elbow! Phoenix stumbles to a knee against the ropes, but now here comes Victoria… Mickie uses the ropes to elevate herself… then sends Victoria flying with the MICK-A-RANA! Mickie now races at Phoenix… but Beth elevates the champion over the top rope with a back body drop… no! Mickie lands on the apron… but a knee to the midsection sends her flying into the barricade! A hard landing for the champion, with a sick smile crossing the face of Beth as she rubs her chin and looks down on Mickie... only for Victoria to roll her up from behind! 1... 2... Beth kicks out!

From the kickout, both ladies are back on their feet, an angry Beth shoving Victoria on the chest, shouting “What the hell was that!?” at her friend. Victoria shoves Beth back, and then the two start to argue, until there's another shove from Beth... and another in reply from Victoria... which prompts Phoenix to come off the ropes... shoulderblock... but Victoria barely moves! Now it's her turn to come off the ropes... shoulderblock... Beth stands her ground! Neither diva can gain the upperhand, but as they argue again, they don't see that Mickie has climbed to the top rope... FLYING CROSSBODY... TAKES DOWN BOTH CHALLENGERS! Mickie springs back to her feet, dragging Victoria with her, and the champion unloads with more forearms to the head, before she backs up, builds up a head of steam... and another big forearm sends Victoria sprawling through the ropes to the floor! Now Mickie turns back towards Beth, rocking her with a trio of right hands, before the champion goes for an Irish whip... only for Phoenix to reverse it, then line Mickie up for a clothesline... Mickie ducks underneath... and takes Beth down with a FALLING NECKBREAKER! Mickie crawls into the cover...

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BETH KICKS OUT!

Looking to build on this momentum, Mickie steps through the ropes and l0oks to head upstairs once more... only for Victoria to yank her off the apron... FACE FIRST INTO THE CANVAS! Mickie tumbles to the floor, with Victoria quickly laying in with boots to the body as Beth recovers in the ring. Victoria drags Mickie up... then DRIVES HER SPINE FIRST INTO THE RING! The champion slumps to her knees, but Victoria has her right back up again, swinging a right... which Mickie blocks... and then scores a forearm of her own! Another forearm, and another, but as Mickie turns, here comes Beth... BASEBALL SLIDE... SENDS MICKIE CRASHING SPINE FIRST INTO THE BARRICADE! This time the impact makes it mark as Mickie stays down, with Beth now driving knees to the midsection as Mickie leans against the barricade, before both Beth and Victoria roll the champion back into the ring and follow in.

The challengers slide back into the ring, and when both return to their feet, it looks like the pair could come to blows, emphasised by the clenched fist Victoria holds. But Phoenix motions for calm, then points down at Mickie, the two on the same page as they both lay in with boots to Mickie’s spine, then drag Mickie up… DOUBLE HIPTOSS… INTO A DOUBLE BACKBREAKER! Mickie cries out in agony as she grabs her lower spine, and the pace of the match slows right down as Beth and Victoria now look to systematically pick the champion apart. Mickie is again dragged up from the canvas, with Victoria holding her in place as Beth lays in with a pair of forearms to the face, but when she connects with a third, it snaps Mickie to life, as she kicks out and boots Beth in the midsection! Mickie now looks to fight free from Victoria’s grasp, drilling her with a pair of elbows that breaks the grip, and now Mickie drives Victoria to the corner with a series of forearms, before she winds up for one last big forearm that puts Victoria down to the mat! Mickie then turns and charges at Beth… who TAKES MICKIE’S HEAD OFF WITH A BIG CLOTHESLINE! Beth drops down for the cover...

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MICKIE ROLLS A SHOULDER!

With Victoria still down in the corner, Beth looks to take control, dragging Mickie up, landing a few clubbing forearms to the spine, before she goes for an Irish whip off the ropes... but Beth lowers her head... Mickie snaps it up with a kick... then takes her down with a JUMPING CLOTHESLINE! Phoenix crawls towards the corner, but Mickie is right on her, landing more forearms to the face… only for the numbers game to again cost her as Victoria hammers her from behind. Quickly, Victoria fires Mickie off the ropes… right into a POWERSLAM! Victoria stays on for the cover…

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A WORRIED BETH SCRAMBLES OVER
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BUT MICKIE KICKS OUT ANYWAY!

A look of annoyance from Victoria as she spotted Beth heading over, but it’s quickly put aside as Phoenix encourages the two to work together once again, the two landing shots to Mickie’s back before they send her to the corner, then Beth grabs Victoria by the wrist and fires her in… AIDED CORNER CLOTHESLINE! Mickie drops to a knee, but Beth and Victoria both grab a handful of hair and hook Mickie up… DOUBLE RUSSIAN LEGSWEEP! Beth and Victoria get back to their feet, both looking down at Mickie, clearly thinking about going for a cover, but instead, they once again drag Mickie to their feet, synch her in… then take Mickie high into the air… where they hold her… and hold her… until she comes crashing down from A DOUBLE DELAYED VERTICAL SUPLEX!! Again there’s an awkward moment as Victoria and Beth both contemplate going for the cover, but again they stay on the same page as this time Beth yanks Mickie up, hooks up her arms and holds the champion in place, while Victoria backs up, lines Mickie up and makes her move… SUPERKICK… BUT MICKIE DUCKS… AND VICTORIA SMACKS THE KICK SQUARE OFF BETH’S JAW!!

The force of the kick sends Beth sprawling under the bottom rope to the floor, leaving Victoria to look down on her friend in shock. Mickie doesn’t hang around though, spinning Victoria around, landing a pair of forearms before she goes for an Irish whip to the corner… only for Victoria to reverse and follow in… right into a boot to the face! As Victoria stumbles back, Mickie pushes herself up to the second rope… then flies… FLYING THESZ PRESS! Mickie takes Victoria down and hammers her with right hands, before she bursts back to her feet, roars to the crowd and waits for Victoria to rise… and just as Beth steps back onto the apron, Mickie charges, grabbing Victoria by the waist… Victoria crashes into Beth… sending Phoenix flying back down to the floor… while Mickie takes Victoria down with a ROLLUP! 1… 2… Victoria kicks out, but the momentum sends Mickie into the ropes, where she rebounds… and DRILLS VICTORIA WITH A LOW ANGLE DROPKICK! This time Mickie hooks the leg tight…

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VICTORIA BARELY KICKS OUT!!

The crowd sound as dejected as Mickie looks, the champion sure it was over, but now she’s back on her feet, pumping up the crowd, waiting for Victoria to get back to her feet… and Mickie hooks her up… then runs Victoria towards the corner… looking for the MICKIE-DT… BUT AGAIN BETH IS ON THE APRON… DOUBLE BOOTS TO THE FACE SENDS BETH FLYING… BUT IT ALLOWS VICTORIA TO SHOVE MICKIE FREE!! The champion lands on her feet, but here comes Victoria from the corner… RIGHT INTO THE MICK KICK!! Mickie damn near takes Victoria’s head off, the champion has the match won… but here comes Beth from behind, grabbing Mickie… and launching her through the ropes to the floor! Beth then turns, sees Victoria down and out… so BETH DROPS DOWN INTO THE COVER AND HOOKS BOTH LEGS!!

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!!!

Winner: And NEW WWE Women’s Champion, Beth Phoenix @ 07.22

Phoenix has done it, we’ve got a new Women’s Champion! Beth is almost in shock at her victory, but she quickly realises what she’s accomplished and lets out a squeal of delight as she’s handed the title. On the outside, Mickie slowly picks herself up off the floor, and upon hearing the music of the winner, realises that she’s now a former champion. In the ring, Beth holds her title high and jumps up and down, showing little regard for Victoria, but as we cut away, it’s on the sight of a new champion in the form of ‘The Glamazon’.

*Video Package*​

We open to a dismal, rainy scene, a solemn church bell ringing loudly in the background. We slowly see peasants trudging through the rain and mud of what appears to be an eighteenth century town, everybody dressed like pilgrims of the time. As the camera pans, we see a rather portly town crier, who rings a handbell to a much faster beat than the previous church bell...

Town Crier: Hear ye! Hear ye! Thy day of reckoning is upon us!

We hear the clang of a nearby blacksmith hammering down on a piece of raw metal, with the close up revealing the blacksmith to be none other than SmackDown’s own Matt Hardy, dressed in the traditional garb...

Town Crier: Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age!

Hardy tosses his hammer aside and slowly trudges off camera, passing the town reverend, who just so happens to be Mr. Kennedy, with Kennedy also dressed in the church fashion of the time...

Town Crier: I tell thee my friends, do not fear thee who kill the body, and after that can do no more!

Kennedy glances down at the bible in his hands, then tosses it down into the mud, before he follows Hardy off camera...

Town Crier: But I will warn you whom to fear! Fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast thee into hell!

A man in a horse slowly approaches, the man being revealed as Batista. ‘The Animal’ quickly drops down off the horse, the buckle on his boots clunking heavily as he lands before he too walks off camera...

Town Crier: I tell thee, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak!

We now see Edge chopping wood, aggressively swinging an axe into a log set up on a stump, but he soon wipes the wet hair from his face, tosses the axe aside and exits the scene...

Town Crier: So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy!

King Booker and Queen Sharmell sit on thrones like a Mayor and Mayorness, with Booker soon standing up out of his chair, leaving Sharmell behind as he heads out of the frame...

Town Crier: For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.

The town magistrate is played by Chris Benoit, complete with wig, who suddenly sits upright from behind the bench of his courtroom and storms out of the building mid trial, leaving behind a full courtroom of confused people...

Town Crier: And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that rises from the bottomless pit will make war on them and conquer them and kill them!

We now see practically the entire SmackDown roster, all dressed for the time, stood surrounding the Town Crier, who now has a petrified look on his face…

Town Crier: Oh death, where is your victory? Oh death, where is your sting?

Suddenly, out of nowhere, the Town Crier is clobbered by Umaga, who is dressed as he normally would be. Umaga now stands with one foot on the chest of the crier, the camera looking down on him in pain, but he manages to get in the last word as he shouts...

”Judgment Day... is upon us!”



"WWE JUDGMENT DAY – MAY 20TH - LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW!"

*End Video Package*


Back into the arena, where the camera pans around the fans while we hear from the commentary team...

Joey Styles: Yes folks, for the superstars of Friday Night SmackDown, Judgment Day is upon them. May 20th is the night that the WWE returns to pay per view, and we hope you'll join Michael Cole and the guys for Judgment Day.

Jim Ross: It's certainly shapin' up to be a helluva show, and of course it's at Judgment Day where we'll see the return of one Rey Mysterio. I know I can't wait to see Rey back in-

Jerry Lawler: Hey, hey J.R., look at this. Look who we have here.

The camera focus on a skybox high above the arena, and slowly the shot zooms in on a well-dressed man enjoying the show... it's Claudio Cesaro! The man who is just 24 hours away from his Raw debut relaxes in a comfy looking leather recliner, a beautiful blonde woman sat nearby, the two sipping champagne and taking in the atmosphere...

Jim Ross: Well folks, if you're not aware who that gentlemen is, that's Raw's newest acquisition, the Swiss aristocrat, Claudio Cesaro. I guess he's here doin' a little scouting on the Raw roster before he makes his debut tomorrow night.

Jerry Lawler: Nice to see a little bit o' class and refinement on the show. I'm sure Claudio's gonna be payin' real close attention to this next match.

Joey Styles: The whole world's gonna be payin' attention to this one 'King'. It's time for the WWE Championship to be defended. Rob Van Dam, the man who went to WrestleMania XXIII and emerged as the new face of Monday Night Raw, defends the gold against none other than John Cena. Let's take you back and see how this match came about...

*Video Package*


The video opens with footage from the WWE Championship Triple Threat Match at WrestleMania XXIII, where Rob Van Dam flies through the air and comes crashing down on both Shawn Michaels and Triple H with the Five Star Frog Splash, leading to the three count and for Joey Styles to make the call...

”ROB VAN DAM IS THE NEW WWE CHAMPION!”

And now we go to the following night, the April 2nd episode of Monday Night Raw, Van Dam’s first appearance as champion where after addressing the crowd, Van Dam looks to wrap things up with...

Rob Van Dam: 'Cause there's a new name at the top o' the bill here on Monday nights... and that name's ROB – VAN – D-

*MY TIME IS NOW...*

A gasp of shock quickly descends into a very loud mixed reaction, which only grows louder as John Cena himself steps out onto the ramp. Cut now to Cena in the ring, he and Van Dam sharing a smile and a nod of appreciation...


John Cena: Let me be the first to come out here and publicly say... Rob Van Dam... congratulations.

Cut now to footage from the Royal Rumble, where Cena and Van Dam battle for the WWE Championship, only for Cena to put 'RVD' away with the match winning FU...

John Cena: I defended my title against you at the Royal Rumble, then at Raw: Night of Champions...

We now see action from the WWE Championship Triple Threat Match at Raw: Night of Champions, where Shane McMahon hammers John Cena with a steel chair shot to the skull, taking Cena out of the match...

John Cena: I got screwed outta it by Shane McMahon. And I never got my rematch. I got nothin' but beat on night after night by whoever sold themselves to Vince, while you got to go to WrestleMania and challenge for the WWE Championship. You... got my rematch, Rob.

Back to the night after WrestleMania, and the tense stand off between the two after Cena's words...

Rob Van Dam: If it's a title match you want... then that's what you're gonna get.

The crowd roar their approval, but that's quickly ended when we hear...

*NO CHANCE IN HELL...*

We now see the ring packed as Mr. McMahon, Bobby Lashley and Shane McMahon join Cena and 'RVD'...


Mr. McMahon: The last thing I want to see is you two go at it. Quite frankly, the only thing I can think of right now that's worse than Rob Van Dam as WWE Champion... is John Cena as WWE Champion. And I don't care if these people wanna see it... it's not gonna happen. Not tonight. Not next week. Not at Backlash. Never!

And then the following week, the April 9th Monday Night Raw, where to emphasise that message, McMahon says...

”ROB VAN DAM, JOHN CENA, THE WWE CHAMPIONSHIP... THERE IS NO – CHANCE – IN HELL!

We now see a close up of the hulking Lashley, snarling at the camera, with inserts of the power and ferocity he has displayed over the last few months, as Vince says over the top...

Mr. McMahon: Rob Van Dam, you will defend the WWE Championship at Backlash, and you’re gonna defend it against this man… BO-

*MY TIME IS NOW…*

A massively loud, mixed response, although the cheers outweigh the boos as John Cena interrupts, the image changing to that of Cena in the ring with Vince, Lashley and Shane...


John Cena: You wanna name Bobby Lashley the number one contender? Well how ‘bout you have him earn it… against me?

From the dramatic image of Cena and Lashley standing nose to nose, ready to pounce at each other, we cut to the April 16th Raw, where Cena and Lashley battle in the main event, the winner going to Backlash. The action is fierce, the hitting intense, and over the top of the highlights, we hear Rob Van Dam say the following words to Cena...

”IT'S NOT JUST THESE PEOPLE WHO ARE COUNTIN' ON YOU TONIGHT... I'M COUNTIN' ON YOU TOO.”

Back to footage from the Cena/Lashley match, where Lashley has Cena right where he wants in, up on his shoulders, looking to end the match with The Dominator... only for Cena to drop down the back, take Lashley down to the canvas... and apply the STFU! Cena locks it on tight, and despite desperately trying to fight it... Lashley has to tap out! The match at Backlash is on!

But... from the euphoria of Cena's victory, we head to the following week, April 23rd, where Van Dam is being interviewed by Maria...


Rob Van Dam: I’m WWE Champion now, and that’s a whole other level. I’ve been champion before, but this time I’m here to stay. That’s why tonight, and then again this Sunday at Backlash, the guy havin’ his hand raised at the end of the match… is gonna be Rob – Van – Dam!

But as the interview ends, the footage takes a turn for the worse, the images darken, a tense, dramatic music is heard, and we see John Cena laying down and out on the floor backstage, a trickle of blood pouring from his forehead. Maria covers her mouth with her hand in shock, while Van Dam sighs and shakes his head, looking more annoyed than anything else, before he storms off.

And then storms into the office of Mr. McMahon...


Rob Van Dam: I wanna know what the hell's goin' on?

Mr. McMahon: You storm in here and accuse Bobby Lashley of attacking John Cena... but who's to say it wasn't... you... who attacked Cena? Who's to say you didn't assault him when nobody was looking in an attempt to save face ahead of this Sunday?

The anger in Van Dam starts to rise, but as the tension in the music builds, we hear Vince bombard 'RVD' with statements...

”YOU'VE NEVER BEATEN JOHN CENA WITHOUT ANY CONTROVERSY.”

“YOU'RE TRYIN' TO PIN THAT ASSAULT ON LASHLEY SO NOBODY BLAMES YOU IF CENA DOESN'T SHOW UP THIS SUNDAY.”

“MAYBE THE PRESSURE'S STARTIN' TO GET TO YOU.”


And now we cut to the main event from that night, where Van Dam battles Kenny Dykstra, and it does indeed look like the pressure is getting to the WWE Champion as the youngster has the better of the majority of the match. The resiliency of Van Dam shines through though as he mounts a comeback, only to see Bobby Lashley come down to the ring... quickly followed by John Cena! Cena and Lashley brawl on the ramp, but the distraction costs Van Dam as from behind, Dykstra nails the Jumping STO and picks up a huge upset win!

Post match, an apologetic Cena slides into the ring, but now the video kicks into high gear, with Van Dam furious, looking like a champion on edge as he shoves Cena square in the chest! Cena recoils, then he barges back in, and now the two are nose to nose, looking like they're ready to explode! Cena and Van Dam throw a flurry of verbals at each other, but men furious with the other, the arena at fever pitch as it looks like Cena and Van Dam could come to blows at any second...


Jim Ross: What the hell has happened here!? Van Dam, Cena... they're been driven to the brink by Bobby Lashley! These two are ready to explode, and it's gonna happen this Sunday, live on pay per view!

And as the video comes to an end, the final image is that of Cena and Van Dam nose to nose, screaming in each other's faces, neither man backing down, while on the ramp, a smirking Lashley looks delighted with the chaos he's caused as we fade... to... black.

*End Video Package*

Right back into the arena to hear...

*MY TIME IS NOW...*

A truly thunderous, deafening, yet very much mixed response as John Cena bursts into the arena, looking fired up and ready for action...


Jim Ross: Is he 100%? I guess we'll never, truly, know the answer to that one. But John Cena is here to fight, and he's gonna give it everything he has to become WWE Champion once again. Screw Vince McMahon, screw Bobby Lashley, it's Cena and Van Dam, and bah gawd what a match it's gonna be!

Jerry Lawler: I can't wait to for this. And for the sound of these fans, they can wait for it either! It's been a long road for Cena from Raw: Night of Champions to get this opportunity, and now that he's here, he's not gonna want to let it slip away.

Joey Styles: 'RVD' wanted a challenge, he wanted to prove himself as WWE Champion, and he's startin' right at the very top with John Cena. Nobody is more passionate, nobody is more intense than Cena, and nobody could be a bigger threat to Van Dam's title reign than that man right there.

Sliding under the bottom rope and then bursting back to his feet, Cena looks desperate to get the match underway, bouncing around the ring, before he comes off the ropes and sends his hat flying into the crowd, then rips off his t-shirt. As his music dies, Cena heads for the corner, performing a few squats with the ropes, then settles in to await the arrival of the champion...

*ONE OF A KIND...*

And the absolute biggest pop of the night is saved for the WWE Champion, Rob Van Dam. Look calm yet focused, Van Dam strides out from the back, surveying the scene for a few seconds, before he leads the crowd in a rendition of “ROB – VAN – DAM!” and then heads for the ring...


Joey Styles: WrestleMania XXIII saw Rob Van Dam usher in a new era for Monday Night Raw. Van Dam vowed that as champion, the time for talking was over, and now was a time for action. But so far, things haven’t gone to plan, as all the talk has been about whether or not ‘Mr. Monday Night’ can handle the pressure of bein’ WWE Champion.

Jim Ross: And if ever there was a chance to prove the doubters wrong, it’s right here against arguably the biggest star in professional wrestling today. Van Dam will never be flashy, he’ll never be a loudmouth, but bah gawd, he’ll give ya’ all the fight ya’ can handle, especially with the WWE Championship on the line.

Jerry Lawler: Well, we’ve all heard the questions. Is the pressure startin’ to get to ‘RVD’, or is this all a creation of Mr. McMahon? I thought last Monday night and that loss to Kenny Dykstra meant it was all startin’ to get to ‘im, but lookin’ at ‘RVD’ right now, he looks as cool and as focused as I’ve ever seen ‘im. This one could go either way, both men are desperate to win, and both could easily put the other away in a heartbeat.

In the ring, Van Dam walks past Cena as he heads for the corner, the two sharing an awkward stare with each other. In the corner, ‘RVD’ climbs to the second rope and once again leads the fans on a chant of his name, before he drops down to the canvas, both men now stood in opposite corners as we hear the announcement...

Lillian Garcia: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WWE CHAMPIONSHIP!!

Another big pop from the crowd, the camera focused on Cena who only has eyes for the glistening gold over Van Dam’s shoulder...

Lillian Garcia: Introducing first, from West Newbury, Massachusetts. Weighing in at 251lbs... JOHNNNN CEEENNNNNNAAAAAA!!

Cena now bursts from the corner and throws his hands up into the air with the ‘Word Life’ salute, shaking his arms and legs, trying to stay loose in the powderkeg that is the FedEx Forum...

Lillian Garcia: And introducing his opponent. From Battle Creek, Michigan, Weighing in at 237lbs... he is the WWE Champion... ROB – VAN – DAAAMMMMMM!!

And another great pop as ‘RVD’ thrusts the WWE Championship into the air, feeding off the energy of the crowd, before he gives the title one last kiss and hands it over. After Mike Chioda raises the title into the air, the fans are electric, the arena buzzing in anticipation, as tonight’s main event is underway!






WWE Championship Match:
WWE Champion Rob Van Dam vs. John Cena

And from the bell, both men look anxious to get things started as they quickly circle the ring, before they come together and snap into a collar and elbow tie up. Both men struggle and strain to get the upperhand, before finally Cena works into a standing side headlock. Cena wrenches on the hold for a few seconds, before Van Dam back both men to the ropes then shoves Cena across... Cena bowls 'RVD' over with a shoulderblock! After looking down for a moment, Cena quickens the pace as he comes off the ropes... Van Dam avoids him with a leapfrog... then hits an armdrag! But Cena bursts right back up... headlock takedown! A frantic start, but now Cena looks to slow things down as he keeps the action grounded. Van Dam manages to force both men to a vertical base, then he breaks free by shoving Cena off the ropes... into an armdrag takedown! Van Dam answers right back, griping an armbar from his knees, keeping Cena in check. Cena powers back to his feet, searching for a way to break free, and he finds it as he backs both men to the corner, the referee calling for the break... which Cena cleanly provides.

It's a little cagey, but Cena backs away from the corner, inviting 'RVD' out, the two again tying up, this time the champion twisting into a standing waistlock. Cena tries to pry the hands open, but Van Dam hangs on, then takes Cena down face first to the canvas, rides over him and delivers a few slaps to the back of the head, before 'RVD' bounces back to his feet to a decent pop from the fans. Holding his arms out wide, 'RVD' invites Cena on, the challenger pushing himself back up, nodding his head, the tension just starting to simmer. Again the pair lock up, this time Cena working into a hammerlock. Van Dam reaches, but can't grab an escape, prompting him to run towards the corner, jump up... SPLIT LEGGED MOONSAULT... rolled through into an ARMDRAG! An impressive escape from Van Dam, and now the match picks up a gear as the champion strikes with alternating kicks to the thighs, then goes for the Irish whip... Cena runs into a SPINNING WHEEL KICK! Cena stumbles to his feet... right into a scoop slam... leaving him in perfect position... as 'RVD' comes off the ropes... ROLLING THUNDER... NO! Cena rolls under the bottom rope... and Van Dam lands on his feet!

With his hands on his hips, Cena paces the floor, taking a few seconds to recover... but 'RVD' doesn't want to wait as he grabs the top rope and flies... wiping Cena out with a PLANCHA! The crowd cheer again as 'RVD' crashes onto Cena, the two laying on the floor for a few seconds before Van Dam yanks Cena up. The champion hooks up the challenger... then takes him up... before dropping him GUT FIRST ACROSS THE BARRICADE! Van Dam nips up to the apron, stares out into the crowd, leads them through a chant of “ROB – VAN – DAM!” and then he flies... TWISTING LEGDROP ACROSS THE BARRICADE! Both men hit the floor with a thud, 'RVD' selling the effects of the move just as much as Cena as he grabs his lower back. Cena is rolled back into the ring, the champion sliding in after for the first cover of the match... 1... 2... it's far too early as Cena easily kicks out.

Shoving Cena into the corner, 'RVD' looks to stay in control as he drills a shoulder into the midsection... and again... before he backflips out of the corner... but before he can charge back in, Cena explodes from the turnbuckle... and HAMMERS VAN DAM WITH A CLOTHESLINE! Cena yells “Get up!”, and Van Dam obliges... another Cena clothesline! Cena now unloads with right hands, backing 'RVD' to the corner, before he goes for the Irish whip across... but as Cena follows in, Van Dam elevates himself using the ropes... but Cena catches the champion on his shoulder, yanks him away from the ropes... FU... NO! Van Dam wildly throws elbows, allowing him to drop down to the canvas. As Cena stumbles away, 'RVD' moves back in, striking with kicks to the chest that back Cena to the ropes, before the champion fires the challenger off the opposite side... reversal from Cena... Van Dam runs into a kick to the midsection... then the FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Quickly, Cena scoots over and hooks the leg... 1... 2... Van Dam comfortably powers out.

Clearly needing to wear the champion down more, Cena shoves Van Dam against the ropes and goes to work with right hands, before he goes for the Irish whip... reversal from Van Dam... who then avoids Cena with a leapfrog... then catches him with a MONKEY FLIP! Cena crashes near the ropes, stumbles back up... CLOTHESLINE SENDS CENA TUMBLING TO THE FLOOR! Once again the action spills to the floor, but this time there's no aerial attack from 'RVD' as the champion simply steps through the ropes and drops down, dragging Cena back up. Looking to do some damage, Van Dam lines Cena up for an IRISH WHIP INTO THE STEEL STEPS... but Cena counters... only for Van Dam to show great athleticism as he jumps onto the steps... then flies with a TWISTING CROSSBODY... NO! Cena catches him in a bearhug... then uses a double leg takedown... before he CATAPULTS VAN DAM INTO THE RING POST! Van Dam smacks off the steel and slumps down to his knees, a chance now for Cena to do some damage. The challenger grabs a handful of hair, tossing Van Dam against the barricade, before he grabs the wrist... and fires 'RVD' spine first into the side of the ring! The tension that has been building between the two over the last few weeks comes to the fore now as Cena shows a more aggressive side as he rolls 'RVD' back into the ring.

'RVD' stumbles to his feet and then to the corner, looking to recover, but Cena is right on him, smacking a few rights and lefts to the midsection, before he shoves Van Dam against the ropes then goes for the Irish whip... but Cena lowers his head... allowing Van Dam to rolls across his back, land and then come off the ropes... and goes for a CROSSBODY... NO! Cena catches Van Dam, then hoists him up onto his shoulders... but 'RVD' transitions this by rolling through into a SUNSET FLIP... 1... 2... Cena kicks out, but Van Dam bursts to his feet and comes off the ropes... into a MASSIVE FALLING CLOTHESLINE! Big time impact, and now Cena hooks the leg...

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VAN DAM KICKS OUT!

Feeling he's gained a slight upperhand, Cena helps 'RVD' up then lands a few rights to the face, before he fires Van Dam to the corner. Cena races in after... CORNER CLOTHESLINE! More high impact from Cena, who again goes to work with those rights and lefts to the body, before he once more fires Van Dam across the ring and follows in... but this 'RVD' sidesteps... and Cena smacks chest first off the turnbuckle! Stumbling backwards the challenegrs doesn't see the champion approach from behind... pushing himself up onto Cena's shoulders... then rolling forward for a VICTORY ROLL... but sits in and traps the shoulders to the canvas! 1... 2... 'RVD' kicks out! But from the kickout, Cena looks to stay in control, only to be rocked by a JUMPING REVERSE HEEL KICK that catches him squarely on the jaw! Cena drops to a knee, allowing Van Dam to drill more kicks to the head, before the champion heads for the ropes... but runs into a MASSIVE SPINEBUSTER!! From his knees, Cena looks down on 'RVD' pondering the cover, but then deciding it's not quite time. Cena instead heads for the corner, where he pushes himself onto the second rope, waiting for Van Dam to make it back to his knees... which is Cena's cue to fly... DIVING LEGDROP BULLDOG! The challenger gets all of it, and now he does indeed hook the leg...

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VAN DAM ROLLS A SHOULDER!!

A grimace and a shake of the head from the challenger, who looks to press home this advantage by landing a few more rights, then he goes for the Irish whip to the corner. 'RVD' hits the turnbuckle hard, and here comes Cena... running right into a boot to the face! Cena staggers backwards, dropping down to a knee, with Van Dam sensing a chance to mount some offence as he leaves the corner... to drill Cena with a JUMPING HEEL KICK! Cena crawls to the ropes, trying to shake it off, but Van Dam is right on him, landing uppercuts before he fires Cena across... but Cena ducks a Van Dam clothesline and keeps on running... rebounding then nailing a FLYING SHOULDERBLOCK! Cena bursts back up, waiting for Van Dam to rise, before he comes off the ropes again... SECOND FLYING SHOULDERBLOCK... NO! Van Dam drops down... and Cena crashes and burns... the momentum causing him to roll under the bottom rope to the floor! Cena lays on the floor, a ten count being administered, but Van Dam refuses to see the match end that way, as he climbs to the top rope and waits for Cena to stumble up... VAN DAM SOARS WITH A FLYING CROSSBODY! Breathtaking stuff from the champion as he again wipes Cena out on the outside, both men feeling the effects as they lay on the padded flour near the entrance way. Naturally, it's 'RVD' who's back on his feet first, assisting Cena, and then hooking him up... SUPLEX ON THE FLOOR... NO! Cena blocks it with his foot... THEN COUNTERS WITH A SUPLEX ON THE CONCRETE!!

The crowd “Ooooh!” in unison for the painful impact of the move, both men fully feeling the effects as they lay motionless on the cold, hard surface. Slowly Cena crawls to the barricade and uses it to hoist himself up, then he reaches back down to do simillar to 'RVD'. The champion grabs his lower back as he's walked back towards the ring, with Cena rolling him under the bottom rope and following in for the cover...

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VAN DAM GETS A FOOT ON THE ROPE!

Cena groans in frustration, taking a few seconds to catch his breath before he presses on, yanking Van Dam up and then firing him off the ropes... Cena drills a boot to the midsection then comes back off the ropes... to nail the THROWBACK! With Van Dam down in the centre of the ring, the crowd are on their feet with a very loud, mixed reaction, as they all know what's coming next... Cena sprints for the ropes... then looks down... “YOU CAN'T SEE ME!”... but before he can hit the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE... Van Dam strikes with a kick to the head! The fans cheer as Cena stumbles back into the ropes, but as 'RVD' gets back up, Cena swings a right hand... Van Dam ducks... then takes Cena down with a BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX!

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CENA KICKS OUT!

But sensing he has an opening, Van Dam looks to quicken the pace as he strikes with alternating kicks to the thighs, then a kick to the chest... before he finishes the sequence off with a JUMPING ROUNDHOUSE! Cena is down near the corner, and Van Dam grabs the top rope, hoists himself up... SPLIT LEGGED MOONSAULT! Van Dam gets all of it, and stays on for the cover... 1... 2... Cena powers out again! The champion now starts to build some momentum, tagging Cena with more kicks to the body up against the corner, and then he drives a shoulder to the midsection... and a second... before a backflip from the corner... and this time Van Dam nails the third running turnbuckle thrust! Cena grabs at his ribs, but there's no time to rest as 'RVD' grabs the wrist and fires Cena to the opposite corner... no, Cena reverses... wait, Van Dam reverses the reversal... and it's Cena who smacks sternum first off the turnbuckle from close range! Cena stumbles and turns, but Van Dam has already jumped off the second rope... SPRINGBOARD SUPERKICK! The impact causes Cena to fall backwards to the floor, his head colliding with the bottom turnbuckle. Quick as a flash, Van Dam sprints to the opposite corner, slings himself to the top rope, and the crowd comes alive in anticipation... Van Dam soars... VAN TERMINATOR!! There might not have been a steel chair infront of Cena's face, but he feels the impact all the same! Still grabbing at his lower back, 'RVD' moves as fast as he can to drag Cena away from the corner and hook the leg...

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CENA ROLLS A SHOULDER!!

Van Dam shakes his head in annoyance, a strained look on his face as he holds three fingers up to the referee, only to be told it was only two. Both men struggle back to their feet, but naturally, it's Van Dam who lands the first shot, drilling Cena with a pair of hard right hands to the face. A left boot lands to the chest, then a right, before Van Dam rears back and fires Cena to the corner. Cena hits the turnbuckle at a fierce pace, prompting 'RVD' to charge... right into a BOOT TO THE FACE! The champion stumbles away, grabbing his jaw, his back turned on the challenger... and with a burst of life, Cena attacks from behind... grabs Van Dam by the neck, steps a leg through... and tries for the STFU... NO! 'RVD' desperately tries to fight the grip around his throat, managing to block it... then he spins all the way through, taking him behind Cena... and then into a BACKSLIDE! 1... 2... Cena kicks out, and both men race back to their feet, where Van Dam swings a roundhouse kick... but Cena ducks underneath... then grabs Van Dam from behind, hands clasped around the champion's waist... then Cena runs 'RVD' into the ropes... and takes him down with a ROLLUP... 1... 2... NO! 'RVD' kicks and rolls through... and bridges into a pinfall of his own! 1... 2... Cena kicks out! Neither man can gain the upperhand as both men hit counter after counter on each other, the fast pace of the recent exchange causing them both to lay just a few extra seconds on the canvas before they make it back up.

This time it's Cena who strikes first, landing a hard right to the face, then two rapid fists to the midsection, allowing him to then go for the Irish whip off the ropes... and then Cena catches Van Dam with a boot to the gut... no! The champion grabs the foot... and counters with the STEP OVER SPINNING WHEEL KICK!! Cena goes down, but not wasting anytime, the champion pushes himself back to his feet and comes off the ropes... ROLLING THUNDER... THIS TIME FINDS IT'S MARK! With Cena down and in prime position, the crowd comes alive as Van Dam heads for the corner, slings himself up onto the top rope... then readies himself... for the FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH... NO!! Cena rolls to safety, leaving Van Dam to crash down onto the canvas! Van Dam instantly clutches his ribs and kicks his legs in agony... but there's no time for a recovery as Cena pounces... grabbing the foot, stepping then dropping down... and hooking the arms... STFU!! CENA HAS THE STFU LOCKED IN THE CENTRE OF THE RING!!!

Memphis erupts with a huge mixed response as Cena has the WWE Champion locked in his deadly submission hold smack bang in the middle of the ring! Van Dam grimaces in agony, gritting his teeth, desperately trying to fight the pain and hang onto his title. Cena rears back, roaring to the masses, determined to win back the title that was stolen from him all those months ago. Every time the question is asked... “Do you want to quit?!”... Van Dam shakes his head, but then he lifts his hand off the canvas... raising it in the air... is the champion going to tap?... NO! Van Dam reaches forward with both hands, clawing at the canvas, showing incredible strength as he drags both he and Cena towards the ropes... Van Dam reaches out... so close... CENA DRAGS VAN DAM BACK TO THE CENTRE OF THE RING!! Another cacophony of cheers and boos, but Cena doesn't care, not with the WWE Title at stake. One more time, Van Dam shakes his head in defiance, and he slowly crawls across the canvas, inching his way to freedom... one last effort from Cena as he rears back once again... but it's just no use... as VAN DAM REACHES OUT AND GRABS THE BOTTOM ROPE!!!

Somehow, someway, Van Dam manages to survive, but Cena makes sure he takes full advantage of the five count, waiting until the very last second before he finally releases the hold. Back on his feet with his hands on his hips, Cena ruefully shakes his head, knowing a great chance to become champion just slipped away. 'RVD' uses the ropes to somehow drag himself back up, and upon seeing this, Cena moves back in, only for Van Dam to catch him off guard with a right hand. Van Dam advances from the ropes, landing another right, but when he swings a third, Cena ducks underneath... then takes Van Dam up and down with the PROTOBOMB!! Bursting back to his feet, Cena raises a hand in the air, the crowd again mixed in their response, before the challenger comes off the ropes..”You can't see me!”... FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE!! Cena gets all of it, but the damage has clearly been done to the champion as Van Dam stays down on the canvas, barely able to move. Sensing a chance to land a big move in the hope of putting the champion away, Cena heads for the corner, stepping through the ropes... and then climbs to the top rope! In an unusual move, Cena carefully climbs to the top rope, looking for a high flying attack... but out of nowhere, Van Dam is up and racing to the corner... jumps up to the second rope, swings a leg... STEP UP ENZIGUIRI... CAUSES CENA TO CROTCH HIMSELF ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE!! An incredibly painful landing for Cena, but it could be about to get a whole lot worse, as after taking a few seconds to catch his breath, Van Dam now starts to climb! Both champion and challenger are teetering on the top rope, with Van Dam hooking Cena up... and then both men fly... SUPERPLEX!! An unbelievable spectacle as both men come crashing down to the canvas, the arena erupting with a massive cheer as Van Dam pulls out an incredible counter. With both men down, there's no option for the referee but for him to start the count...

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Very little movement from either man, both laying on their back, until finally there's a sign of life from Van Dam as he slowly starts towards Cena...

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And then finally the champion is able to drape an arm across the challenger's chest...

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CENA BARELY ROLLS A SHOULDER!!

Somehow, Cena hangs in there, barely surviving and keeping his title hopes alive. 'RVD' is clearly too exhausted to question the decision, instead he simply rolls over onto his back and then tries to sit up. Cena crawls to the ropes as Van Dam pushes himself back up, buying him some time, but 'RVD' lands the first right hand... Cena fires back... but then Van Dam strikes again... and again... a rattle off a third right in a row. 'RVD' goes for the Irish whip off the ropes... but Cena reverses... only for Van Dam to rebound and fly with a RUNNING CROSSBODY! Instead of hanging on for a cover, 'RVD' struggles back to his feet, taking Cena up with him, where the champion rattles of a kick to the body with the right boot... then the left boot... then a big right kick to the side of the head! Cena staggers, legs like rubber, as Van Dam races for the ropes... jumps to the middle rope... for a SPRINGBOARD MOONSAULT! Van Dam takes Cena down and into a pinning predicament...

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CENA JUST MANAGES TO KICK OUT!!

Van Dam slaps a hand off the mat in frustration, but after taking a few seconds to compose himself, the champion presses on, landing yet more kicks to the legs and body, allowing him to back Cena to the corner. 'RVD' then lands a few forearms to the side of the head, and then another pair of boots to the midsection, before he goes for the Irish whip across the ring... but Cena reverses and follows in... right into a back elbow! Cena stumbles back, but Van Dam yanks him back in for a headlock, then pushes himself onto a seated position on the top rope... TORNADO DDT... NO! Cena pushes Van Dam away, the champion landing on his feet, but here comes the challenger... running right into a STANDING ROUNDHOUSE KICK... NO! Cena ducks underneath and keeps on running, coming off the ropes... FLYING SHOULDERBLOCK! Cena bounds back to his feet, again charges... SECOND FLYING SHOULDERBLOCK! The challenger is back up, waiting for the champion to rise... kick to the body... and then the hook up... RELEASE FISHERMAN SUPLEX! This time Cena takes no chances as he crawls into the lateral press, hooks a leg tight...

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VAN DAM POWERS A SHOULDER OFF THE MAT!!

Clearly dejected at not getting the three count, Cena rubs a hand across his head, but as he returns to his feet, Cena nods to himself, knowing what he has to do. The challenger stands ready, crouching down, hands poised, ready to strike, just waiting for Van Dam to stumble into his path. The fans of champion desperately yell for their hero to stay down, but the fight in 'RVD' sees him stagger to his feet... and right into Cena grasp... as Van Dam is hoisted up for the FU... NO!! Once again Van Dam fights to block it, kicking his legs in mid air, enabling him to twist... then spin... TORNADO DDT!! Cena's head is driven to the canvas with a thunderous effect, and now the arena is on it's feet as the WWE Champion nips up to the top rope... looks down on the challenger in perfect position... before he soars through the air... FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH!!! Van Dam gets all of it, grabbing his ribs in pain, but then he dives across the canvas to get the...

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NO!!!

CENA KICKED OUT! Somehow, John Cena manages to stay in this match! The crowd can't believe it, and neither can Van Dam, while on commentary, a rather solemn Jerry Lawler says... “Maybe Mr. McMahon was right. Maybe Rob Van Dam CAN'T beat John Cena?!”... and the look of shock and doubt in the eyes of the champion suggests that's exactly what's running through his mind too. Van Dam props himself up on his elbows, looking all out of ideas... until the sound of boos is heard from the crowd... with Van Dam and every fan in the arena turning their eyes towards the entrance way... “Speak of the devil...” is the call from Jim Ross... as heading down the ramp are Mr. McMahon and Bobby Lashley!! Van Dam quickly gets back on his feet, readying himself for an attack, but referee Mike Chioda heads outside and tries to plead with McMahon to turn around... MCMAHON PLANTS CHIODA WITH A BIG RIGHT HAND! The referee is down! And now nothing stands between Lashley hitting the ring and going toe-to-toe with Van Dam... but the crowd are frantic, desperatly pleading with the champion to turn around... as Shane McMahon has came through the crowd and snuck into the ring... and as Van Dam turns... SHANE CRACKS A STEEL CHAIR OFF HIS SKULL!!

A sickening sneak attack from Shane, damn near taking Van Dam's head off, BUSTING OPEN the champion in the process. With Cena still down from the five star and 'RVD' out cold, Vince points Lashley towards the ring, 'The Dominator' sliding under the bottom rope, ripping off his shirt and then grabbing Cena by the wrist, dragging him towards the ropes at the opposite side. Lashley drops back outside, then he positions Cena at the edge of the ring, before he heads towards the Raw announce desk... and starts rearranging furniture! The cover is ripped off and tossed aside, monitors are flung to the floor, and our commentary team head for safety... as Lashley hoists Cena up onto his shoulders... “No! For the love of God, don't do it!”... DOMINATOR THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE DESK! CENA IS PLANTED THROUGH THE WOOD!!

A “Holy shit! Holy shit!” chant breaks out from the fans as for the second time tonight, an announce team sees their desk decimated. Through the wreckage, a laid out Cena offers no signs of life, out cold as the vengeful Lashley stands over him. Back on the other side of the ring, Vince continues to direct traffic, yelling for Lashley to now turn his sights to 'RVD', with Shane heading for the corner. Van Dam has barely budged an inch since steel met skull, and he looks completely out of it as Lashley grabs him by the hair and pulls his head off the bloodstained canvas. Clearly Shane wants to go Coast-to-Coast, and he motions for Lashley to grab the chair and set Van Dam up... but when Lashley tries to manoeuvre Van Dam towards the corner... he doesn't see 'RVD' grab the steel chair... and swing upwards... SMACKING IT OFF LASHLEY'S SKULL! Memphis erupts with delight as 'RVD' leads the fightback, causing Lashley to drop to a knee, buying himself some time. Sensing the danger, Shane drops down and charges... STEEL CHAIR SHOT TO THE FACE! The younger McMahon tastes the steel, but now Lashley makes another move... but 'RVD' tosses him the chair... VAN DAMINATOR... KNOCKS LASHLEY THROUGH THE ROPES TO THE FLOOR!

As this is going on, a group of referees storm down the ramp, clearly telling Vince to call off the attack and head backstage. In the ring, Van Dam has the steel chair in hand, goading Vince into an attack, but with Shane and Lashley down, Vince thinks better of it and starts to back away... while in the ring... John Cena has staggered back into the match... and he reaches, spins Van Dam around... and hoists him up onto his shoulders... FU!! FU!! AN FU OUT OF NOWHERE!! Cena hooks the leg, but he has to wait for one of the refs on the outside to realise what's going on... the ref slides in... and the FedEx Forum can't believe it, as we've got a new champion...

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NO!!!

HE KICKED OUT!! ROB VAN DAM KICKED OUT!!

It might not have been the cleanest of wins, but with the WWE Championship on the line, nobody could blame Cena for taking that chance. Shaking his head in disbelief, Cena affords himself a smile, not quite able to understand how he didn't finish things right there. On the outside, a pair of paramedics help Shane backstage, while the group of refs have managed to get Vince and Lashley back away, their effect on the match though being fully felt by the carnage they've left behind. In the ring, champion and challenger have to use each other to help themselves back up, neither man looking all that sure on their feet, but the fight and desire to win takes over as Cena throws a right hand... but Van Dam quickly fires back... Cena again, but the crowd “Boo!” their displeasure... and then a “Yay!” for Van Dam... “Boo!”... “Yay!”... “Boo!”... “Yay!”... “Yay!”... “Yay!” they cry as 'RVD' rattles off three in a row, backing Cena to the ropes. Van Dam shoots Cena across the ring... but he lowers his head... and Cena goes for a sunset flip!

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VAN DAM KICKS CENA'S HEAD TO BREAK THE COUNT!!

Cena groans in annoyance, thinking he had caught 'RVD' by surprise. The fans can sense the end may be near as they rise to their feet, and with both men slow to their feet, neither looking like they have any ideas left, it appears they could be right. Cena drills a knee to the midsection, doubling Van Dam over, then he races off the ropes... looking for the THROWBACK... NO! Van Dam sees it coming and swings a STANDING ROUNDHOUSE... NO! Cena ducks underneath... puts on the breaks... and takes 'RVD' up onto his shoulders... FU... NO! Again, somehow Van Dam manages to fight free, dropping down behind Cena... but as he goes for a waistlock, Cena rolls forward, sending Van Dam towards the ropes... the champion jumps to the second rope... SPRINGBOARD ENZIGUIRI!!! Van Dam's boot smacks flush off Cena's skull... and now the challenger is down in the perfect spot, and Van Dam quick as a flash nips up onto the top rope... steadies himself... then he soars through the air... FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH!!! Memphis explodes with delight, and after a few seconds of rolling on the mat in pain, Van Dam dives over and hooks both legs tight...

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!!!

Winner: And STILL WWE Champion, Rob Van Dam @ 24.38

The roof nearly blows off the FedEX Forum as Van Dam somehow manages to put Cena away. Neither man moves an inch as they both lay on the canvas, exhausted after an exhilarating contest in which they pushed themselves to the limit...

Joey Styles: VAN DAM! VAN DAM! Rob Van Dam has done it! Van Dam has beaten John Cena! Despite the best efforts of Bobby Lashley and Mr. McMahon, Cena and Van Dam had a helluva match, and it’s ‘Mr. Monday Night’ who has prevailed!

Jerry Lawler: What a match, and what a victory for Rob Van Dam! John Cena, he was desperate to win, he wanted that WWE Title so badly, but it just wasn’t enough to see off ‘RVD’.

Jim Ross: I thought it was all over when Lashley and McMahon hit the ring, I thought they were about to ruin one of the best WWE Title I’ve ever seen. But the fight, the will, the determination in Cena and Van Dam shone through, and they put on an unbelievable match... but it was Van Dam who would prevail on this night.

Clearly disappointed, once he’s able to move, Cena rolls from the ring to the outside, hands clasped behind his head as he slowly walks up the aisle, knowing he was so close yet so far away to becoming champion again. In the ring, ‘RVD’ is back on his feet, the WWE Title in his grasp, firing it high into the air in celebration of his victory.

By the time Cena has reached the entrance way, Van Dam has already climbed to the second rope in the corner, looking out at the fans, thanking them for their support. Cena puts on the breaks, head hung low, shaking it in frustration, until he turns back towards the ring. ‘RVD’ sees him in the distance, and pauses his gesturing to the crowd, while Cena puffs out his cheeks and shakes his head one last time... before he takes his hand to his head... and offers Van Dam a salute! The crowd respond with a great pop, clearly respecting Cena, while Van Dam smiles and nods appreciatively...


Jim Ross: That’s a real class act from Cena! He’s gotta be disappointed, he’s gotta be heartbroken, but that right there shows you what kinda man he is, and the level of respect he’s got for the WWE Champion.

Jerry Lawler: I’m sure one day in the future, Cena’s gonna be WWE Champion again. But tonight, it’s Rob Van Dam’s night, and I’m sure he’s gonna enjoy it!

Jim Ross: What a night it’s been, a night that will live on through the ages! Rob Van Dam, John Cena, and the Monday Night Raw roster have all endured the backlash! Thank you for watchin’ folks, goodnight!

*End Show*
 
#274 ·
As far as I’m concerned, the up and coming star of Raw in this thread is Kenny Dykstra. You’ve given him the title, and at WrestleMania you gave him the girl. That’s all well and good, and I actually feel as if Carlito is a pretty solid face type character for Kenny to play off. With that being said, I felt like you were at a bit of a dilemma here. A loss to Dykstra would kill all his momentum, whilst a loss to Carlito would make him look like a real bitch. Basically, both men couldn’t lose. The DQ finish isn’t necessarily one I like on PPV, but I really feel like it makes sense here. You’ve set yourself quite the challenge now though. Obviously this feud is going to continue, and whilst it has been an okay feud, it has been nothing ground breaking. For this to really justify being given a blow off match further down the track, I really think things will need to take a step to the next level between the two.

Tag title match was written well and all that, but if I’m being openly honest, there wasn’t much to get me interested in the match at all.

I’m enjoying the way you’ve brought The Hart Legacy in, and after a solid win on PPV, I’m intrigued to see where they go next.

On a side note, those KOTR brackets look pretty damn good. A few jobbers in there, but they’ll get weaselled out early on.

Orton/Hardy was a decent filler feud for Orton, but that’s all it ever was. Orton was never in jeopardy of losing the briefcase.

The build for Shawn Michaels/Triple H was amazing. Absolutely amazing. Makes me feel like shit, considering I initially thought I’ve done a decent job with my HHH/HBK feud, but I guess not. Triple H is the perfect badass foil for the epic new character of Michaels to play off. The fact that they are former best friends just makes it THAT much better. The promos from the two, especially Michaels, as well as just your description of the way Michaels carries himself has been top notch. The match itself was very brutal, which is exactly what you would expect. Michaels working on the leg and what not wasn’t exactly what I expected, and I wasn’t sure what to think about it throughout the match. However the way the ending went about, it really made sense. The ending to the match with the final act of defiance, before HBK took Trips out was chilling stuff. Just terrific. I can’t compliment you enough for this match, this feud, and just the character of Shawn Michaels. Just awesome.

Women’s title match shocked me a little. I really didn’t expect Mickie to lose the title tonight, but you’ll now have her firing for a rematch, as well as Victoria wanting to get at Phoenix. Should make for some interesting developments...

The main event was written very well, and probably just trailed HBK/HHH as match of the evening. I was glad to see RVD get the win, and the booking of the match completely made sense, but I hated it. I hate Vince McMahon being the focal point of everything, it’s such a stale act, so I really disliked the interference. Again, from a booking standpoint I get it, this is more a personal preference thing. The rest of the match was fine enough, but I definitely think there’s more to come between Van Dam/Cena/Lashley.

I don’t want to seem like a total prick because there still has been some good stuff, but Raw has been pretty streaky since Mania. Everything has just seemed sort of dull, way to by the numbers. I think Wolfy may have mentioned a Mania hangover mode, and that really is exactly what it feels like. Whilst your match writing was still good, and Backlash definitely had a great card, your mid card really needs some work. You’re building up young talent and what not, and that’s more than fine, but come Backlash time, there were three matches on the card that I really didn’t feel I’d been made to care about at all. Backlash itself as a show was a great effort though mate, and I look forward to seeing just how you deal with things from here.
 
#275 ·
So, another PPV in the books. Another good one…

The first half of the opening video was excellent, it has to be said. Given how much I enjoyed the narration of it, I felt the second part of the video maybe let it down, and perhaps wasn’t even needed. Still, gets the table set for the big post-WM show.

Interesting choice for the opener, but given the back story it’s a match that has the fans invested from the get go. Early going played out as expected, and after a dominant opening period for Carlito, I expected the use of Torrie as a distraction would’ve opened up the door for Kenny to get on top. I liked the fact that Kenny was able to eventually turn the match in his favour by his own merits though. After solid work on the knee, it was a tad disappointing that CCC didn’t sell it for long once he started to mount his comeback, and at some point, you just knew Torrie would be a factor, saving Kenny from losing the title. One positive aspect of having Carlito work as a face is that you’re able to go all out on his flashy, high risk offence, and towards the closing stages of this one, you did just that. Honestly, the DQ was disappointing - but a necessary evil in order to keep the belt on Dykstra and not hurt Carlito.

The post match revenge for Carlito was nice, and that, coupled with the DQ itself, leads me to think there will be one more title shot in the offing for CCC before the two head in different directions. A feud for Cesaro right out of the gate with Carlito sounds good to me ;), while Jeff Hardy could be a perfect opponent for Dykstra perhaps.

Linda showing up certainly throws a wrench into Vinces plans, and could be the perfect way to prevent them from ruining the main event later.

Not an earth shattering promo from Jeff by any means, but I liked the fire - excuse the pun - he showed in his interview.

I fully expected the tag match to be the opener, but no matter where this got placed on the card, I was looking forward to it. Good use of the athleticism of Benjamin early on in his mini battle with Punk, and it was a good idea to have the four men compete on an even keel, rather than have the faces dominate early on, before being worn down. While the competitive mano e mano nature was good to see, I noticed some nice subtle heel moves too, such as Benjamin pulling on Punks hair when bringing him to the corner which is a smart touch you sometimes wouldn’t see. There was a nice original spot (at least I think it was) in there too with Punk performing a sunset flip and Shelton tagging out before the move was performed. The heel domination lasted just long enough without getting boring before the hot tag to Dinsmore. Liked Dinsmores offence, and the offence in general in the closing stages, including Haas mainly being a pest, saving Shelton from the Cloverleaf (twice eventually) and preventing the Doomsday Dropkick. Interesting to see SES getting a visual win with Benjamin tapping out, but the heels stealing the win.

I certainly expected a close match up, but for whatever reason I had a feeling TWGTT would win cleanly here, just to impose themselves as ‘the best’ and give SES a chance to come back at a later date to push them closer, but from this, it certainly seems that Punk and Dinsmore have the champions number, with this feud bubbling nicely now as the so called best team had to cheat to retain the belts. All in all, it was an enjoyable match, but it did feel like something was being held back, which could be smart if this is just the beginning of what I assume will be a long running rivalry.

The Van Dam promo was pretty basic and by the numbers, just really setting the stage for later. Nothing wrong with that.

Nice change of pace for the second tag match, starting off with the two power wrestlers. I would normally be opposed to running two tag matches back to back on a PPV, but this worked, given the match was a very different affair from the previous match, using a blend of the power guys, the quicker, flashier guys and of course - the ladies too. Kidd was a good choice to play the ‘face in peril’, and Smith a perfect guy to be the one to take the hot tag. Good finishing sequence after that, and I particularly enjoyed seeing Masters having no qualms slapping the Masterlock on Natalya - but my only gripe is that she didn’t sell it for long after it was broken, almost immediately recovering to dropkick Masters out. Saying that, I just liked the fact that she had no problems mixing it up with the guys, and the outcome - while expected - was nicely written. A good win for the Harts on their PPV debut, and I see the imminent break up of MNM isn’t too far away…

Looking at the KOTR draw, and it has to be said that the SD half of the draw looks much stronger - at least in terms of match quality, especially the Kendrick vs. London showdown. There should be a few other nice side plots in the early stages at least, with King Booker looking to win the tournament twice, and it’d be nice to see Lawler get a run for a feel good story. Hard to pick a winner at this point imo - which is a good thing.

Hardy starting strong seemed the right way to go, but it’s good to see his reckless abandon working against him with Ortons dropkick turning the tables in a really well worked spot. While a fairly simple, effective match, the main story - for me - through the match was Orton doing just about everything he could to avoid the big moves from Jeff (Twist of Fate, Swanton) and though he eventually succumbed to the Twist of Fate, Jeff just couldn’t nail the big Swanton, and is beaten in a big match yet again - cleanly. The clean win, and Orton not following up after with an attack (although that’s probably due to not being allowed to use the case) suggests this issue is probably over and done with. Off the top of my head though, I cant see a natural feud for Orton right now on Raw after this, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see him take off to Smackdown in the draft and perhaps cash in on Batista over there, as I don’t see RVD being knocked off any time soon.

Good to see there will be no excuses from Cena should he lose tonight.

Must say - I LOVED the lead in package for HBK & HHH. Superbly put together, worthy of an epic feud such as this.

I don’t think there was any other option you had but to go straight for it in this match. It just wouldn’t have been natural for Triple H and Michaels in this environment to build toward the brawl aspect - it had to be from the opening bell. In general, I’m not a fan of crowd brawls, they just seem like a way to kill time usually, but credit where it’s due here - the fight up to the technical area was well written. Surprised you had Trips go for an early cover. It just seems off, given the hatred between the two. I mean, I get he wouldn’t expect the three at this time, and ordinarily would do it as part of a match, but given this isn’t any old match, I wouldn’t have expected a pin fall in the early going to cross his mind. After reading Trips getting clocked with the monitor I assumed that would be him busted open, but I guess we’ll have to wait for that. While the crowd brawls are a pet peeve, a personal favourite of mine is the use of those television cables to choke people with. IMO, it just provides a great visual to use in a blood feud like this one. The addition of lines from commentary only added to it, with the inclusion of the lines from J.R especially a highlight - really helping to get the reader into the match.

Felt like a very ECW-esque spot when Michaels tied up Trips on the ropes, and went to work on him with the cane - and that’s no bad thing. As you noted with Styles commentary, the biblical symbolism of the way HHH was tied up certainly wasn’t lost on me, and only added to the match, Michaels character and the angle on the whole. Targeting the legs - knowing Trips history with his quad just goes to show how far HBK has fallen, with no mercy - actively going for his former best friends notoriously bad leg. The only way Trips was getting out of that horrible situation was with a low blow - it had to be done. Didn’t quite get how he managed to free himself, and thought it might’ve been a bit easier to just have the referee help untie him while Michaels was done - but I digress, it’s a minor critique. Triple H getting his payback with the cane was expected, and helped turn things back in his favour. Loved the dramatic nature of how the Pedigree through the table came to pass, with the tease, then it looking like things would swing toward HBK, but The Game finally hitting it. Ordinarily, that one might’ve been enough to end it - but Trips doesn’t want to end it yet. A Pedigree on the steps would’ve been SICK, but honestly, I never truly expected it to happen - it would’ve ended the match for sure.

Michaels targeting the leg again goes to show how much intent he’ll have to finish the Game for good here … and the Savage Elbow onto the chair and ankle is brutal - merciless even. Michaels character is simply golden at this point, applying a figure four, but telling the ref he DOESN’T want HHH to quit. “You evil bastard”; again, great use of lines from commentary. Generally I wouldn’t have thought a Figure Four would work in a match like this, when neither man is overly ‘known’ for using it, but boy, you made it something here, and Trips turning it over just went to show how defiant The Game is - going on to kick out of SCM too. The missed Pedigree followed by Sweet Chin Music spot & the countered SCM into a spine buster on the steps followed by a Pedigree series of spots were great to read too, and helped break up the physical nature with a few nice counters (all the while keeping it physical - if any of that makes sense … I think I just confused myself there :$). In keeping with the personal nature of the match too it made sense for Trips to use the sledgehammer to the back, rather than going for the skull - payback for HBK trying to take out the legs - going for Michaels well documented bad back. The finish?? Epic. A Sweet Chin Music wouldn’t have fit in this scenario to end the match - it had to be something sick and twisted … and this didn’t disappoint. The hammer to the skull, telling HHH “It didn’t have to be this way” just sums up Michaels character. Superb.

Quick comment on the post match shenanigans - again, great writing. Teasing more pain for Trips, but simply blessing him was a disgusting, maniacal thing for Michaels to do, and along with his reaction to the slap from Stephanie, just goes to show how far off the edge HBK has gone. Following up, Triple H leaving on a stretcher gives a perfect excuse to get rid of Linda - and at the same time goes to show where Vinces priorities lie, not going, even after his daughter pleaded with him.

It might’ve been smarter to switch the six person tag with this one in terms of placement, as this womens match never had a chance to follow the No Holds Barred epic. The six person match would’ve been perfect to bring the fans ‘down’ again, whereas even as a reader, I had a hard time getting into this, and because of that, the title change didn’t come off as important as perhaps it should have. That aside, you told a surprising enough story, as I expected this to play out with Victoria and Beth eventually breaking down, but that never really came to pass - despite a few accidental blows. That’s a good thing, as you can build that dissention for another while before breaking the pair up. Didn’t see the title switch coming though, having assumed you’d save Beth winning the belt for a one on one match.

Given the fairly weak state of the mid card - especially the heels - I expect Cesaro to make an almost immediate impact upon arrival. He should help freshen up the mid card scene.

Main event time, and the initial feeling out process certainly didn’t outstay it’s welcome. I assumed we’d have a long, slow opening segment of the match, so it was a nice surprise to have things open up a little early on, and didn’t waste time to make it a physical match with spots like Cena catapulting RVD into the post and the suplex on the outside. On that note, it seemed a bit off that Van Dam would need to put his foot on the ropes after that. The Five Knuckle Shuffle should ALWAYS be countered at least once a match - such a silly move. Got a kick out of seeing the (chairless) Van Terminator - that could easily be a finishing move for RVD imo (against mid card guys at least), and I hope you continue to have him use it regularly in this manner. The spot where Cena avoided the Five Star then slapped on the STFU was a well written, exciting sequence, but I didn’t get the feeling the end was near for RVD at that point, but was still a nice near ending spot, which got to show the will to win of the champion. You built up to the superplex spot well too, with Cena going out of his comfort zone and the step up enziguri stopping Cena. Following that near fall, the next three paragraphs of action was some superb action, culminating in the Five Star … BUT CENA KICKED OUT!!??

Clearly, despite being unlikely to win, you want to keep Cena strong, and kicking out of the Five Star will certainly do it. Part of me really thought it was over at that point, but with the threat of Vince and Lashley hanging over the match, I didn’t expect it to end without some kind of run in from them. The kickout also accomplishes adding another wrinkle to Van Dams doubt about being able to beat Cena, being unable to finish him with his own finishing move. Much like the DQ in the opening match, I didn’t really want to see Vince & Lashley (and Shane) show up … but it’s a necessary evil. Still, it’s hard to doubt the impact they had on the match; busting RVD open and putting Cena through a table. A great comeback though for Van Dam, fighting off Lashley and the McMahons, even busting out the Van Daminator. Still, it would’ve been funny for Shane to hit Van Dam with his Coast to Coast rip off of the Van Terminator. While I didn’t believe Cena could win this - I’ll admit, you had me for a second when he caught RVD with the FU. As false finishes go, that was a pretty damn good one. BOO-YAY is a must for Cena matches, so couldn’t blame you for including that, especially when it’s against another popular face - it just fits better in that environment. You put together a great finishing sequence from here, bringing the match home to cap off a superb main event, even if the outcome was to be expected, which in the end wasn’t ruined by the run ins. Great job, and a nice touch with Cena ‘putting over’ RVD with a salute.

Overall, you’ve hit another home run with this PPV, solid matches from top to bottom - including two incredible main event matches. Clearly the two main matches dominated, and while Raw has really just been moving along, I fully expect the show to kick on now that WrestleMania - and it’s hangover period - is done and dusted. I envisage RVD & Cena forging together in the run up to ‘War Games’ to take on the McMahons faction, which may end up including Michaels for that event, as he’ll need to be involved with the two top faces coming out of this PPV - no one else would suffice at this point if Trips is to be on the shelf for the foreseeable future.
 
#276 ·
Backlash Feedback​

Mighty fine opening video package here, did just the job in hyping all the major goings on for the show, pleasantly surprised to see Kenny/Lito even make it with the big guns.

Strong contest to begin with and has been probably one of the most blossoming storylines recently on Raw so was always gonna be good for a hot opener. Lito really began this one strong and it made a lot of sense for him to do so following everything that’s happened. I really bought into it which surprised me as I don’t really see Lito as the type to be so aggressive. Nice way to shift momentum, clever from Dykstra and the working of the knee that followed it was well worked, particularly liked the use of the ring post. Again, nice turning of the tables, only complaint here may be that Lito seemed a little too fresh and didn’t sell the knee all that well, he was pretty nippy flying round the ring and whatnot but that’s me nitpicking I suppose. Really clever use of Torrie following this little period. I expected her to be a factor and her putting Dykstra’s foot on the rope was great, Lito was never winning just like that!

Everything really began to pick up pace from that point on as Lito turned up his intensity while Dykstra looked to finish things and it was a good mix. The mid air STO was beautiful from the champ, thought that might’ve finished it. Ending was very anti climatic, must admit BUT it made a whole lot of sense and was certainly the smart thing to do from a booking point. Dykstra had to retain but Lito also needed a strong showing. Aftermath was again, very clever. Lito really needed that following a frustrating night to give him something coming out of this and a rematch is certainly on the cards, good opening.

Hmmm, I sense shenanigans are still in order despite Linda and Steph.

Pretty standard stuff with Jeff here, I’ve no doubts the match will be a gooden.

Fast paced, enjoyable opening to this tag contest and that’s exactly what I was hoping for/expecting when it comes to Punk and Benjamin. Some solid displays of team work from both sides and Dinsmore looked fairly impressive during his opening spell, liked the running knee from Punk into a spinning spinebuster from Dinsmore, nicely worked. Then came the isolation of Punk and this is where we really began to see just why the champions are the so called ‘World’s Greatest’, picking apart the Straight Edge star with some textbook tag work, the distraction from Haas allowing Benji to drop him across the barricade a prime example. Tags are made and I must say I was REALLY surprised at how strong Dinsmore looked here and throughout the match. Really took it to both the champions, expected it to be Punk’s role rather than Dinsmore.

Honestly thought we were gonna get new champions when Dinsmore and Punk had Benjamin up for the Doomsday Dropkick but by any means necessary from Haas saving the day. Ending was cleverly done. Dinsmore again looking really strong in making Benjamin tap out only for the distraction AGAIN and ultimately Benjamin steals it. Good ending to an unsurprisingly strong contest. Real showing in particular from Dinsmore tonight.

Standard stuff from Van Dam here. All I do know is that he’s definitely not gonna get his one on one, straight up match he’s hoping for.

Surprised to see this go on right after the tag title match, expected them to be spread out a bit but we’ll see how it works out. Really hot start for the faces, particularly Kidd who was flying around as he knows best. Enjoyed Masters picking apart Kidd midway through this, I think having the powerhouse up against the high flier is a nice mix instead of the expected Smith/Masters, Kidd/Nitro action. Bearhug was real sweet from ‘Piece, nice job with the counter though by Kidd, again the dynamic being the key factor there. Ending took me by surprise a little bit as I didn’t expect it so soon however it was well worked. Masters locking the Masterlock on Natalya was harsh but made sense and the right call in having the Legacy win on their PPV debut with a nice showing. Nothing fancy but done your job here regarding this one.

Aftermath was a nice little touch, the falling out of the new MNM appears to be reaching closue, hope to see it soon. A face run for either guy may spruce them up a little bit.

Very, VERY nitpicky of me but all the matches thus far have had a similar start with the faces taking the opening exchange and this one had Hardy delivering a low angle dropkick whilst Kidd did the same thing in the opening of the tag. It’s me being silly I’m sure but I do it myself and just thought maybe to mix it up. Hardy really was on top right from the get go here and it showed just how determined he was to make his mark and take the case, the diving clothesline from the barricade was very Hardy esque. Clever heel work from Orton following this, I’m a fan of when they get out of dodge and leave the ring so liked this and the dropkick off the springboard was beautiful.

The slowing down of the pace from Orton was understandable and the right thing to do, picking apart Jeff and the trademark chinlock was expected while Hardy’s little comeback sequence was nicely written, whisper in the wind’s always a thumbs up from me, enjoyed that. Again, really good use of Orton with the rolling out of the ring only to get caught AND THEN he takes it out on the ref, really clever stuff there, makes him look an even bigger dick for again avoiding and denting Hardy. Expected things to pick up with the ref bump and they did but I did feel the ending was a little bit flat, I don’t know why, it just felt a little bit simple, which is fine but I know you’re far from ever going the simple route. Twist of Fate, awesome, Swanton misses, ok can live with that but then we just get an RKO right from that. Thought Hardy would give a little bit more, maybe fight it off one more time, a counter here, a counter there and THEN RKO is nailed. Didn’t really do a whole lot for Jeff with the finish BUT it was a solid contest and again the correct booking with Orton retaining and looking smart throughout. Sense that one, if not both of these guys will head to SD in the draft.

Strong interview with Cena here. Could feel the intensity and passion in him, getting the message across loud and clear for the main event.

Awesome video package for this, ‘nuff said.

Perfect way to start, just a face off is more than enough to set the scene for this one and the blows right from the get go was definitely the right way to go, nothing fancy needed just a fight from the off. Surprised Trips went for a cover so early, must admit, doesn’t seem to be the type of match for that right away. Big guns came out right away and that’s what I anticipated, trash cans, steel chairs, the kitchen sink to follow I’m sure! Just what this match required. Loved the little passage of Michaels wrapping the cable round Trips throat, the vicious manner, J.R’s commentary as well as the portrayal of HBK’s emotions or lack of were great.

Awesome stuff with the ‘biblical’ line from Styles here, just another reference to how twisted Michaels has become and the assault that followed was absolutely brutal. No surprise the blood came here, just ouch. Trips comeback was nicely done, a low blow was pretty much the only way out to be fair and the Pedigree through the announce table would’ve definitely got a ‘Holy Shit’ chant going, no doubts. Once both men were back inside the ring it got even better I felt. Nasty steel steps shot from Trips and I thought he’d build from that but Michaels response was just evil, epitomised his character. The use of the steel chair, going from a stiff shot to the elbow drop onto it on the ankle was just sick. J.R’s commentary again, as Michaels goes for the Figure Four, was fitting.

‘I don’t want ‘im to quit, I want ‘im to suffer’, another epic line in this thing that portrays Michaels as the sick SOB that he is. Figure Four reversal made sense although I don’t think Trips leg would’ve held out to be honest so I’m glad it didn’t last long at all. WOW, thought this was over with after the SCM but Trips kicks out!! And then Michaels kicks out the Pedigree!! After that I knew the ending was gonna HAVE to be brutal and fuck me, wasn’t it just? Brilliant, brilliant ending. The sledgehammer comes out to play and everything here was on point, Trips signature weapon being used by his former best friend turned nutjob who SMASHES it over his skull following a DX crotch chop, doesn’t get much better. Michaels comes out of this looking like a million dollars in this biblical, sinister, whackjob role he’s playing, definitely the best character going right now.

Aftermath with Steph was great, really plays up just what we witnessed and the cross on Trips chest was just eerie, would give me chills watching that if I saw it, loved it.

Ahhhh clever, very, very clever. Vince gets his way in sickening circumstances but the boss stays back to ‘look after the show’. Brilliant.

Women’s match was decent for the time it got and was very surprised to see Beth take the title. Fully expected Mickie here whilst Victoria and Beth kinda cost each other but you swerved me. Gotta be honest and agree with Wolfy here, struggled to get into it following the No Holds Barred. Not really your fault as nothing probably would’ve done after that one. Looking forward to seeing how this thing develops heading out of this however.

Strong video package here again, not quite on the HBK/Trips level I felt but still a good recap for us. Cagey was a good word for the opening here and I think it was the right way to go, allowing the two top dogs to kinda feel each other out. Van Dam came on strong though once we got going and the offense on the outside was well worked, can imagine Van Dam having the support in this one for moves like this he produces. Beautiful sequence on the outside again involving the steel steps, showed off RVD’s athleticism while giving Cena a really kind of ‘Oh wow’ moment. Bit of a turning point in the contest there and Cena really looked strong following this point, Van Dam seemed to have no answer and it kinda played into the ‘Can Van Dam beat Cena question?’ Cena definitely appeared to me to be more in the heel role for this thing, the way you described the mixed reaction as well as his frustration at times, Van Dam showing his will to win staying in it was nicely described.

Van Dam fought back well and his little passage on the front foot was enjoyable, the Van Terminator is always a move to go wild for and I’m sure it woulda got a huge pop. Exchange of pinfalls again gave it a real big time, neither man able to really get on top of the other. STFU from Cena and I senses shenanigans at this point…but didn’t get it. Definitely surprised me but again showcased Van Dam’s will to survive, to win with the dragging back to the middle followed by him finally getting the bottom rope, again showing Cena’s frustration. Cena going to the top rope? Never gonna end well, good way for Van Dam to get right back into things with a trademark high risk move, suited Van Dam down to a tee.

Very up and down again from that point, both men having their share of the upper hand. Kick out from the Frog Splash was a shocker although kindaaaa expected as we hadn’t seen you know who and right from that we get what we expected. Brutal stuff from Lashley here, the Dominator through the announce table was a little unexpected as we saw a table spot earlier but certainly showed the power of the ‘Real Deal’. Really, really shocked that Cena recovered so quickly, really didn’t expect that and the kick out from Van Dam rivalled Cena’s kick out of the Frog Splash. Van Dam comes on strong to close it and retains in a strong back and forth to finish things. Surprised we didn’t see more of a reaction from Vince afterwards looking on, he kinda just went away like that following Shane and B-Lash demise, thought he might stick around to see the closure but that’s me being petty. Really engaging main event and I think really said a lot about Van Dam, the way he held out in many desperate situations while taking on the boss and the main man in Cena to hold onto his gold, good stuff.

Really solid show here mate. Two main event matches were excellent, Michaels/Trips stole the show whilst Van Dam/Cena was a different yet just as effective contest that leaves all the more to come I’m sure involving the McMahon’s and Lashley. Undercard was all decent-good, particularly enjoyed the I.C title clash while Orton/Hardy was strong. I’m sure that as we build further towards Summerslam the mid card are gonna really build up and things can only get better the way I see it. Well done again here.
 
#277 ·
Really gotta start hitting people back with feedback. Might as well start here. Apologies for lateness and all that jazz :$

619's Feedback for iMac's BACKLASH

Opening package was short, sweet, and largely simple. You put some great descriptions in there, well to do to be able to hear those violins and match them with the daunting images presented. Only thing I didn’t like a little was the ending focus on Michaels/Trips, but I can easily overlook that because it really is the match that most people, if not everyone, is looking forward to. Plus, those images of a blank and vacant Shawn Michaels stare send shivers down anyone’s spine. Opening package was bon.

Just for kicks – once, just once, I want someone to write out what Hugo and Carlos have to say. Not to say it makes the show worse or better, I just think that’d be so much fun to do. I really want that image of Hugo Savinovich losing his shit in his high-pitched voice in a language I can’t understand. But moving on…

Opening with DAT IC TITLE match, I see. I will say, from a thematic standpoint, this match is perfect to kick off then night. Backlash is always described as ‘Wrestlemania Fallout – The Movie’, so it makes perfect sense to kick off with not only a Wrestlemania rematch, but a rematch that is very much different than what we saw the first time in that both men have essentially reversed roles for the most part. Long story short, I thought the choice to have this match first truly is ‘backlash’. Also, while we’re speaking of themes, kudos on Torrie wearing black to now go with the color of her heart. But I take those kudos back because you still haven’t had JR call Torrie a ‘jezebelle’.

Onto the actual match itself, FUCK YES on having Carlito burst right through the gate with all his pent-up frustration. Terrific storytelling not just in that, but having the distraction of Torrie cause Carlito the pain of being on the defensive, which pretty much summarizes this entire feud. Even better in that it doesn’t even last too long. Didn’t like Kenny recovering that quickly from a suplex on the concrete; I felt that should’ve been felt a little bit longer than that. Great display here to have Kenny target the weakened knee a great deal, seeing as how there’s no way he’d be able to keep up with Carlito otherwise. Jesus, he’s relentless, no? Again, even after Carlito tried to get him some momentum, some great storytelling in that it’s Torrie who always stops him. And of course to remind us that she’s there. Excellent display of psychology with ‘Lito not being duped the same as he was a ‘mania. Sick spot with the mid-air STO after the Frankensteir kickout, both spots making Dykstra look strong and not completely like a spot-picking coward, but good on Carlito to kick out of the sick spot to look strong as well. The finish was overdoing Torrie’s involvement I think, but I’ll take it begrudgingly, especially since it’s a DQ finish to kick off a PPV. Effing great bookends here in kicking off the match with an angry Carlito, then to have him unleash more hell in the post-match to a never more deserving guy. Solid opener that can lead to many leads especially with One Night Stand possibly around the corner for these two. You really are building Kenny into something here, but Dykstra had better watch his back, though. You know the old saying – Hell hath no fury like a puffy-haired Puerto Rican scorned.

:lmao @ the McMahon ladies gumming up Vince’s plan. Just that entire segment, I could picture the look on Vince’s face as it goes from completely confident and sinister…to grinding his teeth once his plans are completely thwarted. Good stuff, but I still don’t think it’ll change the fact that they’ll show up later.

Good little last minute pump-up speech from Jeffery here, but nothing too magical. It’s Hardy on the mic. Meh. Moving on.

Nice little transition from ‘fighting fire with fire’ to ‘This Fire Burns’. Read like a comic book. I liked it. A nice basic beginning to the tag team match, transitioning into some solid high paced action is always good. I do like the stark contrast with that beginning to what kicked off the opener, but I liked even more that the challengers actually took command for a pretty big portion of things to solidify the fact that they deserve to be there just as much as anyone. Punk took some brutal offense there with the punt to the face and the POST TO THE FREAKIN’ THROAT. That one had to leave a mark somewhere. Lots of focus on hang-ups from the champs there, from that throat spot to the barricade spot to the flapjack on the ropes to that one tag team move they do. Not sure what the focus was on that if it was intended too much at all, but nonetheless, great action to show the resourcefulness and teamwork of the champs. Dinsmore looked like a million freakin’ bucks for a good portion of this, especially when he got the hot tag. The Cloverleaf looked awesome here, but the chaos that ensued at the end was very well done and a great way to get even more heat for the WGTT. You put over the Saints very nicely, but all the while keeping the WGTT not only looking strong, but at the same time severely threatened. Also a tad surprised this one got more time than the IC title match. Still, solid job on this one.

Van Dam promo was full of frustration, as well it should have. Got its point across and got the thumbs working. Me gusto.

DAT BONECHILLIN’ MICHELS. Also, careful with those squat thrusts, Hunter. We don’t want another quad tear.

Best part about reading the lead-in for this match is looking at the banner and seeing the look on Chris Masters’ face. Don’t know whether he’s farting or looking at me like I just farted. Poop jokes aside, onto the match with the lightest story of the night. Kidd busting out of the gate came out looking phenomenal, showing the true dynamics of the group. Natalya looked deliciously brutal with her brawl with Melina and its nice that you display the sides to the team like this early on with a big stage – the strength, the athleticism, and the feminine brutality. Nice to see Kidd pay for his high-flying antics by getting picked apart, too. These two teams are so alike dynamics wise, but I will admit, I kind of marked out a little for the Masterlock being applied to Natalya. Jesus, I really am a sick bastard, aren’t I? That aside, a great feel-good ending to that one with everyone getting their licks in and nailing the tag team finisher and also feel good in that finally someone who isn’t a heel gets away with the win tonight. Nice establishing win for the Harts co. Post-match focus was very interesting. Could be the beginnings of the breakaway Nitro needs to go for a face run…?

Long live the King? Oh, stop it you. I’m blushing 8*D Brackets look highly interesting, although I’m personally most looking forward to Haas/Kidd. Don’t fail me on that one.

Jesus, I can almost tell Jeff won’t be winning this match outright due to the furious amount of offense he displayed from the very beginning as he burned through his moveset, but as it was with Carlito, a very nice choice to have him take out all of his pent up frustrations, although I will note the lack of a count-out during both he and Carlito’s assaults. It’s no surprise that Hardy’s recklessness gets him in trouble and it wouldn’t be a Jeff Hardy match if it didn’t. DAT CHINLOCK~!! Nice use of Match Writing 101 with the heel wearing down the face and whatnot. This was a very by-the-numbers match, and it almost had too much in common with Carlito/Dykstra for my liking. The flow and face motivations were nearly identical, and the finisher spots as well. Perhaps it was intended on your part, but what get out of them being so similar is that, in a way, Kenny and Orton aren’t as different as Orton panned them out to be, but are indeed much more alike. That’s from a character perspective, but from a storytelling and match perspective it was enjoyable and both men came out looking strong, although it’s anyone’s guess where Hardy goes from here. Was a little disappointed Orton didn’t punt Jeff’s head off. Maybe Jeff and Carlito scratch each other’s back from here a little bit…? Idk. Jeff and Carlito both will be mid-card blank canvases for you in the coming months, so I’ll be watching them more closely than perhaps your main event guys.

Sounded like good-ol ‘ Boy Scout Cena to me. Moving on.

Enjoyed the video package, but since I’m a stickler for these things, it disappointed me a little. I was hoping for something focusing a little bit more on Michaels’ descent into what he’s become, but maybe I screwed you over when I did the whole ‘Lord’s Prayer’ thing a few months back. And maybe I’m just being an overanalytic stickler. Anyway, a more than great package to get in the swing of things and set the tone for what should be the most violent and telling match of the night.

There was never any question that this one was gonna be a brawl from the very get-go, so I’m glad you didn’t disappoint there. Bloody hell, this was got violent in a hurry, but I’m not complaining in the least. I’m more than psyched to see these two guys going for the kill from the instant. I found that spot where Michaels was choking Triple H out with JR’s commentary very telling for this whole thing. I’m no biblical expert by any means, but the quick shot idea of Michaels killing someone from a character standpoint would go against god and all of Michaels’ beliefs, I would assume. That’s how far that son of a bitch has gone in that he’s willingly contorting the very beliefs that so drive him. Or that could just be me being an overanalytical twat again. And speaking of looking at it in biblical terms, how about that not-eve-subtle crucifix spot, eh? Beautiful in the sense that not only does it apply to Michaels as he is now, but in the notion that, again, he’s contorted his own beliefs to the point where he doesn’t even realize he’s probably gonna wind up becoming what he hates (if he’s whipping the crucified opponent, it makes him the blind persecutor, not the religious martyr he seems to be more inclined with).

Triple H’s fury is one that’s gone unnoticed for most of this feud, but I’m glad you highlighted it when he just let everything loose on Shawn. This guy almost has as much to lose psychologically as HBK does. You captured him in prime Cerebral Assassin mode here, clearly gunning for Michaels’ back. Fuckin’ marked at the Pedigree through the table spot, HUGE moment and ‘holy shit’ worthy in top form. The ‘gree on the steel steps would’ve ended it and I really wanted to see it, but for obvious reasons, I’m glad you avoided it. Michaels’ comments while in the Figure Four was gold, as it displays not only just how sick a bastard he is, but it’s actually still in line with Shawn Michaels. I remember him uttering something very similar to that in his match with McMahon at ‘Mania 22. My goodness were the last several minutes of that simply brutal. The signature defiance in Michaels used for dark purposes was excellent, and even Trips’ last stand was heartwrenching. It ended poetically, if brutally. A damn good match that’ll haunt some for a while, I can see. The post-match was infinitely chilling with the scream of Steph echoing in my mind while Shawn gives last rites…that’s some eerie shit right there, mate. Trips’ll be out for a while, but where does that leave HBK to go…? Does he now head the McMahon charge?

I’m still curious as to why oldies Shawn Michaels is on the poster and not a more modern version…

This scene was beautiful. Most time, PPV segments eat up time or give a last minute spectrum on things, but this one was actually beautiful. Just the emotions between Linda, Steph, and the lack therefore of from Vince were so great, it was almost tragic. Now it’s not just guys like Michaels’ psyche in jeopardy, but Vince’s as well. Loved this.

After the emotional tugs of the match and subsequent segments before it, I was a tad bit emotionally drained going into this one, which is almost assuredly why it was placed here. Gonna go along with Wolfy and say that it was tough to get into this one because of the drainage and the title change is kind of lost in a way. Will say the entire time, I was actually impressed with Victoria and Beth beating the living hell out of Mickie together for as long as they did. At any rate, very happy that Beth got the win at the title here, although I didn’t like that she got it through the predictable means in which she did, but I can more than understand why. Mickie not eating the pin keeps her looking on the up, with more than enough fuel in this one for an Act III. Specialty match at ONS/near future plz.

Oh hey, Claudio. Nice of you to display him in such a manner. It’ll be interesting to see where he can break in and rank, especially with a lack of heels in the midcard as Wolfy noted. Lol @ the ‘Swish Aristocrat’ line.

Solid package for what should be the a cracker of a main event. I think I’ve commended you once before on it, but again, some kudos on the delayed introductions to give the match an even bigger time feel. As for the contest itself the feeing out didn’t stay too long as they can sometimes, and it was great that they seemed so evenly matched for a great deal of it, opposing the likes back-and-forth likes of some of the other matches on the card. You’ve pulled out quite a few German suplexes tonight, I’ve noticed. Not saying there’s anything wrong with that, just a mundane observation. VAN TERMINATOR, even with no chair, is mark-out worthy. Cena taking a brunt of virtually everything RVD has to throw at him was very much well done, especially in stark contrast to the dark way we saw Michaels using it not too long before. The stuff leading up the Superplex was great back and forth structure. The pause in the action was necessary, seeing as how these guys were going full metal for a while. While I understand Cena kickout of the Five Star and it certainly tells the story of him being able to beat Cena or not, the Five Star has been watered down a bit in this thread and that I don’t like. It was one of those finishers I don’t think I’ve ever seen any one kick out of and several of your RVD’s last few opponents have done so. But that’s more of me nitpicking than anything. Business picking up from the now uninhibited McMahon clan, and Christ that second announce table spot was sick. The anarchy was nicely done, Van Dam overcoming everything is a nice touch and even greater was with that whole feel-good ‘overcoming the odds’ moment from RVD into the mood whiplash of him getting planted with the FU. Excellent whiplash of psychology there, only to whip right back when Van Dam kicked out. Awesome win for RVD, especially considering that McMahon and Co. did what they wanted to do, but in the end, it mattered little, as RVD still got his very definitive win over the face of the company.

Overall, a terrific showing from the MVP of the last year himself. I think it was the former King who pointed it out earlier, but you do a great job of controlling yourself when it comes to your big shows, unlike some of us who just let it all hang out and never know when to quit. The only criticisms I have for this baby were the flow similarities of Dykstra/Carlito and Hardy/Orton and the placement of the Women’s match/title change, but other than that, it was on board as a top-notch effort. I do hope this hangover mode is over now so everything can start coming together in more glorious fashion than it already has. This, fittingly, gets the KingKirby seal of approval, duder
(Y)
 
#278 ·
Thank you all for the predictions and feedback for Backlash. I think I dropped comments on most of you, but I will no doubt be dropping some more over the next week or so. Anyway, here's a Raw preview. Show to be up Sunday-ish.

~Monday Night Raw~
April 30th, 2007
Nashville Arena
Nashville, Tennessee






WrestleMania is has been consigned to the history, and last night the Backlash was felt. But tonight on Monday Night Raw, hope springs eternal once again as we kick off the 2007 King of the Ring!

Backlash saw a titanic WWE Championship Match between Rob Van Dam and John Cena come right down to the wire, thanks to the unwanted interference of Mr. McMahon and his hired help, Bobby Lashley. After Lashley attacked both champion and challenger, it was finally Van Dam who rallied and struck back, forcing McMahon and Lashley from the ring for long enough to allow the title match to continue. After grabbing a dramatic win over Cena, ‘RVD’ will no doubt be pleased about gaining a victory over perhaps the biggest star in the WWE. But what’s next for both men is a far different question. Both will no doubt be seething over the arrogance of McMahon as he sent his charge to the ring, with Cena in particular perhaps looking for a way to finally settle things with Lashley. As for ‘RVD’, the WWE Champion will no doubt be ready for his next challenger, a challenger that could emerge as soon as tonight.

As for McMahon, he no doubt will have his attention on boardroom matters this evening, as the WWE Board of Directors reconvene after a two week deliberation period to finally come to a decision with regards as to whether it will be Vince or Linda McMahon who leads the show in the future. Both have campaigned tirelessly at boardroom level, and their desire to take full control of the WWE’s flagship show was on full display last night at Backlash, even if many were left shocked by Vince’s refusal to accompany his wife and daughter as they left the arena for the hospital with his son in law, Triple H. Tonight, we’ll finally find out just which McMahon will have the power on Raw, a night that could truly shape the entire future of the WWE and Monday Night Raw.

One man who won’t be in attendance this evening is Triple H, who is still in a Memphis hospital due to the injuries he suffered during last night’s No Holds Barred Match with Shawn Michaels. The two hammered each other back and forth, but ultimately it was Michaels who would deliver the killer blow, bringing Triple H’s trusty sledgehammer crashing down on the skull of ‘The Game’ to get the three count. After the bell, Michaels performed the disgusting act of blessing Triple H as he was led out of the arena, something which drew the ire of all inside the building, including Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley, who slapped Michaels hard across the face for his actions. Tonight, Michaels is in the building and will address the crowd, no doubt letting us all in on where his metamorphic journey is set to take him next.

By hook or by crook, both Kenny Dykstra and Randy Orton left Backlash still in possession of the Intercontinental Championship and the Money in the Bank briefcase respectively. The men who missed out last night, Carlito and Jeff Hardy, both get an immediate chance to get back to winning ways as they compete in the first qualifying round of the 2007 King of the Ring tournament. Hardy will face the grizzled veteran Hardcore Holly, while Carlito will square off against Mike Knox. A third qualifying match will also take place, with CM Punk taking on Trevor Murdoch. It’s a chance for all six men to make a big statement and advance in the tournament, one they will all no doubt be eager to take as we count down to the Saturday Night’s Main Event special.

All of this, plus we’ll hear from the new Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix after her victory last night, there will be interviews with Randy Orton, Kenny Dykstra and the World Tag Team Champions, the World’s Greatest Tag Team, Johnny Nitro and Chris Masters look to gain a measure of revenge over The Hart Legacy in a Backlash rematch of sorts, and the European aristocrat, Claudio Cesaro will make his WWE debut tonight!


Confirmed Matches:

King of the Ring Qualifying Matches – Round of 32
Carlito vs. Mike Knox
CM Punk vs. Trevor Murdoch
Hardcore Holly vs. Jeff Hardy

The Hart Legacy vs. Johnny Nitro and Chris Masters

Plus! We’ll hear from the WWE Champion Rob Van Dam, ‘The Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels, the new Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix, and we’ll see the debut of Raw’s newest superstar, Claudio Cesaro!
 
#281 ·
~Monday Night Raw~
April 30th, 2007
Nashville Arena
Nashville, Tennessee



”For it has been written... and it shall be done."




As you’d expect, we kick off the broadcast with still images and soundbites from last night’s pay per view, Backlash, with the sound of dark, ominous music taking us through the brutality that Shawn Michaels and Triple H put themselves through, until ultimately, one final, crushing sledgehammer shot to the skull saw Michaels put Triple H down once and for all. The music then becomes more triumphant as we see from the WWE Championship Match, where a spirited match between Rob Van Dam and John Cena was disrupted by the presence of Mr. McMahon, Shane McMahon and Bobby Lashley, until ‘RVD’ managed to rid the ring of the trio, allowing he and Cena to battle until ultimately Van Dam hit the winning Five Star Frog Splash, retaining the WWE Title in the process.

From this we see the usual Raw opening video, and then head into the arena for an impressive pyro display. As the cameras scan the arena, we hear the buzz of the red hot crowd, and the words of our commentary team…


Jim Ross: It was a night that will live on in the memories of all who witnessed it! A night for the ages, a night full of tragedy and triumph, a night were Monday Night Raw, the backlash was and truly felt! Hello everyone, I’m Jim Ross alongside my colleagues Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler and Joey Styles, and we are less than 24 hours removed from WWE Backlash, a night that I’m sure nobody sat at this table is ever gonna forget!

Joey Styles: Absolutely not! Rob Van Dam, the WWE Champion headin’ into Backlash, a champion under pressure, a champion looking to live up to the high expectations he places on himself, a champion looking to overcome the biggest obstacle, and he did that with a great victory over John Cena.

Jerry Lawler: It was a helluva match, despite the interference of Mr. McMahon, his son Shane, and of course, Bobby Lashley. I wanna know what those three thought they were doin’ stickin’ their noses in that match, especially given the fact that tonight, we’re gonna find out the decision of the WWE Board of Directors as to who’s gonna be in charge here on Raw. Is it gonna be Mr. McMahon, or his wife Linda? And I don’t think Vince did his chances any favours with his actions last night.

Jim Ross: It certainly remains to be seen which side that all important boardroom vote will fall on. Folks, we’ve got a huge night lined up, as the 2007 King of the Ring tournament gets underway with the first of the qualifying matches tonight. And of course, after the vile, sadistic fashion in which Shawn Michaels won last night’s No Holds Barred Match, we’re gonna have an update on the status of Triple H, and we’ll hear live from ‘The Heartbreak Kid’.

Joey Styles: I bet he’s got a lot to say for himself after his shameful actions last night. Pulling a helpless referee infront of him to save himself, and then that blessing of Triple H as he was bein' stretchered out of the arena, infront of Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley no less. Just absolutely sickening.

Jerry Lawler: It was definitely a disturbing incident, one that I thought I’d never see from a guy like Shawn Michaels. I just can’t believe what’s happened to him over these last few months, and I can’t wait to hear what kinda explanation he’s gonna offer for it all tonight.

Jim Ross: All of that to come folks, as well as a rematch of sorts from last night, as the ladies step aside as Tyson Kidd and Harry Smith square off against Johnny Nitro and Chris Masters-

*ONE OF A KIND…*

The music of the WWE Champion blares out into the arena, causing an explosion from the capacity crowd, and the noise level rises even higher as Rob Van Dam strides out onto the stage, a little sore, a little stiff, but still sporting a smile for the fans as he heads for the ring…


Jim Ross: But it seems we’re kickin’ things off with the WWE Champion himself, Rob Van Dam! What an incredible effort from Van Dam, not only having to survive the onslaught of John Cena, but then to see off the attack from Mr. McMahon and his cohorts. A huge effort from ‘RVD’, and a fully deserved victory.

Joey Styles: Headin’ into Backlash, there was doubts as to whether ‘Mr. Monday Night’ was gonna live up to the pressure of bein’ WWE Champion and the face of Monday Night Raw. But last night, Van Dam put any doubts to rest. Van Dam rose above the pressure, and now he can head forward and forge his legacy as champion.

Jerry Lawler: Credit where credit’s due, Van Dam saw off John Cena. But I’m pretty sure that there’s gonna be a whole host of challengers now lookin’ to take their shot at the WWE Champion, and we might even find out Van Dam’s challenger right here tonight. But for now, ‘RVD’ deserves to enjoy the moment, enjoy his victory last night… but I wouldn’t celebrate too much if I was him.

In the ring, Van Dam has a broad smile on his face as he soaks in the cheers of the crowd, before he nips up onto the second rope in the corner, lofts the WWE Championship high in the air before he leads the crowd through a chant of “ROB – VAN – DAM!” before he drops back down to the canvas. ‘RVD’ asks for and receives a microphone, waits for his music to die down, before he starts to address the crowd…

Rob Van Dam: I uh... I think I'm gonna have to owe you guys an apology.

A confused murmur breaks out, to which Van Dam simply shrugs his shoulders before carrying on...

Rob Van Dam: Y'see, about a month ago I came out here and I said I wasn't gonna be a champion who opened every Raw with some drawn out monologue. And that's somethin' I'm still plannin' on livin' up to. But...

Van Dam pauses and offers the crowd an exaggerated wince...

Rob Van Dam: I'm gonna have to go back on my word a little bit tonight. 'Cos I got somethin' I wanna say about Backlash last night... and John Cena.

A very loud, very mixed response, until eventually the cheers outweigh the boos, a reaction that Van Dam raises his eyebrows to...

Rob Van Dam: Hey, love 'im or hate 'im, I wanted John Cena at his best last night. I needed him to bring it, and I needed to prove to all of you... and maybe even to myself... that I could beat 'im. And y'know what?

Thinking for a second, 'RVD' nods his head assuringly...

Rob Van Dam: John... he brought it last night. He gave me his all, he gave me his very best. He gave me a helluva match for my first title defence and all I wanna say is... thank you.

A warm pop breaks out around the arena, Van Dam nodding his head in agreement...

Rob Van Dam: Thank you John for a helluva match, and any time you want a rematch, you just let me know, dude. Now, that might be all I gotta say about John Cena, but I still got somethin' else I gotta get off my chest, and that concerns... Vince McMahon.

Lots of heat for the mention of 'The Chairman of the Board'...

Rob Van Dam: Vince, Shane, Lashley... what's your problem, dudes? I mean, I get it the fact that you obviously don't like me, Vince. I'm not the typical poster boy, I'm not the marketing guy's dream. I get it... and I really don't care about any o' that.

Van Dam rubs his jaw and purses his lips, choosing his words carefully...

Rob Van Dam: I'm not in this business for the chance to get my face on video game covers, or on magazine covers, and I'm definitely not in this to host Saturday Night Live or anythin' like that. The reason I'm in this business, the reason I'm willin' to risk my body night after night, is to entertain these fans... and it's for this WWE Championship right here.

Another pop...

Rob Van Dam: Now Vince, I hope you can hear me when I say this. If you don't want me as WWE Champion, that's cool bro'. And if you want this title around Lashley's waist... that's cool too. But if you want Lashley to be the poster boy, to be the face of Monday Night Raw...

Again 'RVD' pauses and shrugs his shoulders...

Rob Van Dam: Then sooner or later, he's gonna have to step into the ring with me. And that's where we're gonna have a problem, Vince.

A much more serious tone for that last sentence, drawing another cheer from the fans...

Rob Van Dam: But I'm not gonna wait around, let Lashley try jump me from behind. I'm not gonna waste any time. Vince, if you want this title around Lashley's waist so bad... then why don't you make 'im come out here and win it... TONIGHT!

Big time pop, the fans clearly excited by the prospect of a Van Dam/Lashley title match live tonight...

Rob Van Dam: This time tomorrow, you might not be callin' the shots around here. If that boardroom decision goes against you, Vince McMahon means nothin' on this show anymore. So I'm here, willin' to put this WWE Championship on the line tonight, and all you gotta do Vince, with one last act of power, is make the match-

*MIRACLE...*

What the...? A tune is heard throughout the arena, but nobody knows whom it heralds the arrival off. Van Dam looks as confused as the fans are as he stares up towards the entrance way. The fans buzz with excitement and anticipation, and then a very loud cheer breaks out from the smarks in the audience... as outsteps Claudio Cesaro! OK, it's not a debut reaction of Jericho-esque proportions, but thanks to the month long promos, and the pure wrestling fans in attendance, there's enough people in the arena who know exactly who this man is.

Standing tall on the stage in a sharp suit, Cesaro scans the arena, removing a pair of sunglasses to better survey the land, before he slips the shades into the breast pocket of his jacket, adjusts his tie and then slowly makes his way down the ramp...


Joey Styles: Well, I guess we all know who that is! That's Claudio Cesaro, the man who we've been seein' in all those videos for the past month, and the man we saw watchin' on from the sky box last night at Backlash. We knew he was gonna make his Raw debut tonight, but I never thought he'd do it by interrupting the WWE Champion!

Jerry Lawler: Talk about makin' a good first impression. 'RVD' was out here challengin' Bobby Lashley to a WWE Title Match tonight, but instead he's the newcomer comin' out here.

Jim Ross: I can't claim to know too much about this man, but from what I've heard, he sounds very impressive. He's an aristocrat from Switzerland, he comes from a family deep rooted in the aristocracy of Europe, and he's had the best wrestlin' education money can buy!

Joey Styles: And not only that, but this man Cesaro has won titles all across the world. From Europe to America to Japan, he's won it all, and now he's here on Monday Night Raw, and he's lookin' the WWE Champion, Rob Van Dam, dead in the eye!

As Cesaro bursts through the ropes and holds his arms out wide, the crowd is still buzzing with excitement, the smarks again giving the newcomer a strong cheer. Looking rather perplexed, Van Dam looks Cesaro up and down, sizing the newcomer up, wondering why Cesaro has chosen now to make his presence felt, and it appears he won't have to wait long as Cesaro holds a hand up into the air, motioning for his music to stop...

Claudio Cesaro: Bonsoir! Guten abend! Buenas noches! Mr. Rob Van Dam, WWE Champion… good evening. My name… is Claudio Cesaro.

Another pop from the smarks, at which Cesaro smirks and holds his arms out wide, clearly revelling in the early response from the crowd...

Claudio Cesaro: Und ich bin hier, um Ihnen und all diese menschen zu erziehen ... und dann, dass WWE Championship wegnehmen.

Confused, Van Dam turns to the crowd as if to ask if any of them understood that, only to see a mass of blank faces looking back at him, something at which Cesato can't help but laugh at...

Claudio Cesaro: You didn’t understand that, did you Rob? You didn’t understand a word I just said.

Almost nonchalantly, the WWE Champion shakes his head...

Claudio Cesaro: No, of course not. That's because foreign culture means nothing to you and these fat, weak, ignorant people here in Nashville.

And now finally some heat, at which Cesaro simply shakes his head then carries on...

Claudio Cesaro: They think that the world starts at California and ends at New York. And they think that this country, America... is the world number one. And you Mr. Van Dam, you think that because you stand there wearing that championship... that you're the best in the world within this ring.

Cesaro shakes his head again and wags a finger…

Claudio Cesaro: But you... just like all of them... are mistaken. And that is why I am here. To educate you and all these people. Your country is not the best in the world... and neither are you... I am. Tell me Mr. Van Dam... what do you know of a little place called... Switzerland?

Looking to the crowd in search of an answer, all Van Dam can offer is a shrug of the shoulders…

Claudio Cesaro: I thought so. Nothing. And that is what’s wrong with this country of yours. You Rob, represent everything that is wrong with America. And you also represent everything that is wrong with the WWE today.

And now the champion perks up, raising his eyebrows and adjusting the title on his shoulder, clearly now paying much more attention to Cesaro’s words…

Claudio Cesaro: A small, slow, boring, hardcore wrestling darling, who couldn’t even lace my boots… and yet here you are, as champion of the biggest wrestling company in the world. Sie ekeln mich an!

Frustration overcomes the newcomer as he turns his head away for a brief second, gathering his thoughts before carrying on…

Claudio Cesaro: But right now, you, Mr. Van Dam, are the biggest wrestling name in the world. As for me… I am a hero back in Europe. A national icon in Switzerland. A man of great taste. A man whose bloodlines run from the very best of European aristocracy. In any other country, in any civilised way of life, I… am simply better… than you.

More jeers from the crowd…

Claudio Cesaro: But not in this country. In America… and in Nashville… you’re better than me. Right?

Cesaro turns to the crowd, who cheer their answer, Cesaro nodding and laughing, fully expecting that response…

Claudio Cesaro: Only in America. Only in this country would people think that way. Across the world, everyone would see that I am clearly the superior man… the superior athlete… and the superior wrestler. And these people… are going to find that out… tonight.

The camera closes in on Cesaro as he narrows his eyes in Van Dam’s direction…

Claudio Cesaro: Mr. Van Dam, I heard what you had to say earlier about defending that WWE Championship night after night. Well… I have decided to give you the honour of facing me in my WWE debut. I have built a reputation across Europe and the rest of the world as one of the very best… and I want the people of America to find that out first hand.

Cesaro pauses, taking a moment to smirk, before he speaks…

Claudio Cesaro: And… Ich fordere Sie auf, diesen Titel gegen mich zu verteidigen. What better way for these people to find out… than by becoming WWE Champion in my first match.

More jeers from the crowd, with Cesaro ignoring them as his eyes lock in on the champion…

Claudio Cesaro: So Mr. Van Dam… what do you say? Akzeptieren Sie meine Herausforderung?

Cesaro now steps forward, right in the champions face as he slowly says…

Claudio Cesaro: Do you… accept… my challenge?

Cesaro now steps back, a smug look on his face as the crowd again throws some heat his way. Thinking things over, Van Dam rubs his jaw, taking it all in, before he finally starts to speak…

Rob Van Dam: Wow. Uh… wow, Claudio, that was uh… that was quite the introduction, dude. I mean to come out here, live on Monday Night Raw, on your WWE debut, and to challenge the WWE Champion to a title match… that’s gotta take some guts.

Nodding in agreement, Cesaro smirks and waits in anticipation…

Rob Van Dam: And everything that you said, the icon in Europe, the man of taste, the great family history… that’s all really very impressive. I can tell you’re a man of taste by that suit you’re wearin’. Very nice, dude.

Opening his suit jacket, Cesaro shows off his clothes to the crowd…

Rob Van Dam: But uh… to me and all these fans, all the accolades across the world, all the fancy suits… that means nothin’, dude.

Pop from the crowd, much to Cesaro’s annoyance…

Rob Van Dam: Because this is America… and this is the WWE.

And with that, the crowd break out with a “USA! USA! USA!” chant, causing Cesaro to fume in annoyance…

Rob Van Dam: And in this country, and in this company… this title right here is all that matters. And I dunno what my rep is like in Switzerland, but in Nashville, I’m pretty sure these people think I’m a better man than you.

And a resounding cheer shows the fans in full agreement with the champion…

Rob Van Dam: And y’know, that’s somethin’ you’re gonna have to learn about to survive here in the WWE. Y’see, I wrestled all around the world, just like you. I made my name in this business against some o’ the biggest names in Japan.

An almost reluctant shrug of the shoulders from ‘RVD’…

Rob Van Dam: And then I came back to the States, and the WWE… they didn’t wanna know about me. So I had to prove myself to the fans in this country, and I did that in a little company called ECW.

”ECW! ECW! ECW!”

Rob Van Dam: And it was only after that I got the WWE to finally pay attention to me and give me a job. But for everythin’ I’ve done in my career, for every accomplishment, it all meant nothin’ until bro’ until WrestleMania XXIII where I won the big one on the biggest stage of ‘em all.

Another pop…

Rob Van Dam: So lemme give you a bit of advice, dude. The attitude, the baggage, the past accomplishments… check ‘em all at the door. You’re in the WWE. You’re on Raw now dude. And these people, their respect… that’s gotta be earned.

Van Dam points a finger squarely at Cesaro to emphasise his words…

Rob Van Dam: So I’m gonna accept your challenge, and I’ll put this WWE Title on the line against you tonight in your first match on Raw.

The fans let out a cheer, pleased to be seeing the WWE Title defended tonight, a fact at which Cesaro smiles and nods approvingly…

Rob Van Dam: But I promise you dude, you’re not comin’ into my show and makin’ a name off my back. To be standin’ here infront of you as the WWE Champion, in the last month, I’ve had to beat guys like Shawn Michaels, Triple H and John Cena. And if you wanna kick off your WWE career with a loss… then you got it, dude!

And a final cheer from the crowd, but as Van Dam lowers his mic, Cesaro takes the chance to offer a response…

Claudio Cesaro: Respect? You think I care… about these people’s respect? I don’t need to earn anything from them… and I don’t need to earn anything from you.

A tense moment as Cesaro pauses, he and Van Dam staring intently at each other…

Claudio Cesaro: And as for you accepting my challenge... I don’t need to earn that WWE Championship either. I’m just… going to take it.

And just like in the videos hyping his debut, Cesaro holds an open hand in the air…

Claudio Cesaro: You might have beaten Michaels, Cena and Triple H… but you won’t beat me. Das WWE Title ... ist mein.

*MIRACLE…*

And then Cesaro clothes his hand into a tight fist, clearly signalling his intentions tonight. The smirk is gone, replaced with a tense look of determination, a look echoed by Van Dam, the two burning a hole in each other with their eyes until finally, Cesaro turns and heads for the ropes, leaving the WWE Champion in the centre of the ring to watch the bold newcomer make his exit…


Jim Ross: Well there you have it folks. The newcomer Claudio Cesaro is set to make his debut here tonight on Monday Night Raw, and what a match to do it in! The WWE Championship is gonna be on the line tonight, as Cesaro takes on Rob Van Dam!

Jerry Lawler: And could you imagine if Cesaro wins tonight. I mean, we could be about to witness history right here! I mean, how many people can say they became WWE Champion in their very first match here in the WWE?!

Joey Styles: What a night this is shapin’ up to be! The King of the Ring gets underway, we’re gonna hear from Shawn Michaels, and now we’ve got a WWE Title Match! All of that to come when Monday Night Raw returns!

With Cesaro now at the top of the ramp, the camera switches between Van Dam and Cesaro, the determined look on the face of the champion a stark contrast to the smug smirk on the face of the newcomer. We continue to go back and forth, until Cesaro turns and heads backstage, the shot taking one last look at Van Dam before we head into a commercial.

*Commercial*

We’re back, and it’s straight to the office of Mr. McMahon, who paces back and forth, a tense, worried look on his face. The tension in the room is echoed by his personal assistant Brooke Adams who sits nearby, looking scared to even say anything. In the corner, the hulking figure of Bobby Lashley sits, wrapping tap around his fists, his eyes fixated on the floor, clearly feeling rather sheepish given his botched run during the WWE Championship Match at Backlash…


Mr. McMahon: Have you heard anything yet? I mean, I thought the board were meeting in the run up to the show? They should’ve made their decision already, we should’ve heard somethin’ by now!

Exasperated, Vince rubs a hand across his forehead, while Brooke can only offer a sympathetic shake of the head…

Brooke Adams: I’m sorry Mr. McMahon, I haven’t heard anything yet. I’m sure Shane will be back soon to give you the good news. After the way you put business ahead of your own family last night, the board of directors have gotta see it in your favour, Sir.

Wanting to believe her, Vince lets out a long sigh…

Mr. McMahon: Yeah, well there should’ve never been any doubt in the first place. This whole vote of no confidence is a joke, and it better come to an end tonight.

Off camera, the sound of a door swinging open is heard, and in walks Shane McMahon himself, his father relieved to see him, although Shane is clearly uncomfortable in entering the room…

Mr. McMahon: Shane! Finally! Well, what was the outcome? Just how badly did I beat your mother in the vote?

A nervous laugh from ‘The Chairman of the Board’, but the silence from Shane quickly turns that to a look of worry…

Mr. McMahon: I did win, didn’t I? The board voted in my favour, right?

Shane grits his teeth and rubs the back of his neck, taking an age to answer as he chooses his words carefully…

Shane McMahon: Uh, well… not exactly. I mean, I did my best, I spoke to every board member to try to convince ‘em to vote to for ya’. And John Laurinitus, he did a lotta good work too. But…

Vince raises his eyebrows and opens out his hands, desperate to hear the answer…

Mr. McMahon: But?

Shane McMahon: It was a split vote. They couldn’t come to a decision. They didn’t vote either way. But uh, they’re havin’ another meeting right now and they’re gonna figure out a way to make a decision, one way or the other.

Almost offended, Vince scoffs and shakes his head in disbelief…

Mr. McMahon: What’s that supposed to mean? What way? How are they gonna decide?

Clearly not privy to that information, all Shane can offer his father is a shrug of the shoulders…

Shane McMahon: Dad, I’m sorry, but I don’t know. They wanted everybody outta there so they could think o’ somethin’. I dunno what decision they’re gonna make, but they promised we’d find out before the end of Raw.

Worried and dejected, Vince slumps down onto a nearby coach, running a hand over his face, trying to gather his thoughts, before he looks back up at Shane and says…

Mr. McMahon: Just what the hell could have they have in mind?

But we’re gonna have to wait to find that out folks, the camera lingering on ‘The Boss’ as he continues to shake his head, clearly not able to figure things out, his grip on Monday Night Raw slowly slipping away it seems as we cut elsewhere.

And it’s too a dressing room, where we see the tense faces of Johnny Nitro and Chris Masters stood across from each other, the pair both on their feet with the arms cross across their chests. Keeping the pair separate is Melina, a rose between two thorns, albeit one with a seriously annoyed look on her face as she turns her head from side to side, looking up at both men, clearly with something she wants to get off her chest…


Melina: Last night… you two embarrassed me at Backlash. I mean, we lost to those kids The Hart Legacy. They’ve been in the WWE for about two minutes, and they beat us on pay per view? I don’t think so! It was you two that let it happen, and it better not happen again tonight.

Masters scoffs at those words, instantly on the defensive…

Chris Masters: Whoa, wait a minute. It the two of us? I think you’ll find it was Johnny here who lost the match. Infact, I’m pretty sure if you look back at a lot o’ our defeats, it’s John’s fault we lose.

And now it’s Nitro who’s offended, snapping the sunglasses off his face to look Masters in the eye…

Johnny Nitro: You tryin’ to say it’s my fault we keep getting’ beat?

Chris Masters: Yeah, that’s exactly what I’m sayin’!

Johnny Nitro: Well maybe if you didn’t get kicked outta the ring by a girl last night we mighta won!

Chris Masters: What’s that supposed-

Melina: ENOUGH!

Letting out one of her trademark screams, Melina pulls at her hair and starts firing fierce glares at both men…

Melina: This is exactly what I’m talkin’ about! All this fighting, all this arguing, it’s gotta stop! You two better work together and get on the same page tonight, ‘cause I am NOT watchin’ you guys lose another match.

Taking a moment to compose herself, Melina takes a deep breath and then continues…

Melina: Johnny… it was you who got pinned last night. You messed up. But Chris… I need you to try forget about that, put it behind you, and work together as a team tonight. You think you can do that?

Nitro rolls his eyes and shakes his head, annoyed at being blamed for last night’s defeat, while Masters shrugs his shoulders and reluctantly nods his head…

Chris Masters: Yeah. Yeah sure, I’m a big enough man to do that. How ‘bout you, Johnny?

And in a move reminiscent of the night they joined together as a team, Masters extends his hand and offers Nitro a handshake, but just like that night, Nitro takes an age to eye up the hand, and then take a good look at Masters, until finally, he accepts…

Melina: Good. Now, why don’t you two go get ready? Take a chance to cool off.

With peace and harmony restored, Masters and Nitro both agree and turn to head off in opposite directions, but as Nitro moves to make his exit, Melina grabs him by the arm and spins him back around…

Melina: Johnny… don’t disappoint me again.

And with that, Melina lets go her grip on Nitro’s arm, takes one last look at Nitro and then heads off in the same direction that Masters’ went. Watching her go, Nitro looks concerned, almost worried about what that ominous last statement, but there’s no time to ponder on it as we head back into the arena.

To hear…

”I SPIT IN DA' FACE... OF PEOPLE WHO DON'T WANT TO BE COOL...”

*COOL...*

A pretty warm response as Carlito steps out from the back, not his usual smiling self, still clearly upset about how his Intercontinental Championship Match last night ended. Instead of his usual saunter down to the ring, ‘Lito is all business as he strides down the ramp, rolling under the bottom rope and quickly taking off his t-shirt, dying to get this match underway…


Jim Ross: Certainly some interesting developments right there, especially for Mr. McMahon and his struggle to stay in control of Monday Night Raw. But we’re gonna have to put all that aside for now, as it’s time to kick off the 2007 King of the Ring with the first of three qualifiers tonight.

Joey Styles: And you can see the frustrations of Backlash are still runnin’ high for Carlito. As far as I’m concerned, Carlito had the Intercontinental Championship won until Torrie Wilson caused the disqualification, saving the title for Dykstra.

Jerry Lawler: Well you talk about frustration, I’m pretty sure ‘Lito took out a lotta that frustration when he hit that second Backstabber on Dykstra after the match. But he’s gotta put that to one side right now and focus on becomin’ King of the Ring!

*DEATH GRIP…*

Not much of a response as the intimidating figure of Mike Knox makes his entrance, a fierce look of determination on his face as he makes a beeline for the ring…


Jim Ross: We haven’t seen a whole lotta Mike Knox as of late, but he is a very scary, and a very dangerous competitor. If Carlito’s mind isn’t on the job here, the power of Knox could easily lead him to a victory.

Joey Styles: I’d go further than that J.R., I’d even go as far as sayin’ that Mike Knox could be a real contender to win the whole tournament if he beat Carlito tonight and then got on a roll.

Jerry Lawler: I gotta agree with that. I mean, if I make it past Chris Masters and into the next round, Mike Knox is definitely a guy I’d be lookin’ to avoid. This one could go either way, especially if Carlito’s mind is still on Kenny Dykstra and Torrie Wilson.

Match 1: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
Carlito
vs. Mike Knox

As the bell rings, Carlito quickly finds himself cornered as Knox inches forward, with Knox then lunging to squash 'Lito against the turnbuckle... but 'Lito sidesteps, allowing Knox to smack into the corner. Quick as a flash, Carlito starts throwing left hands to the face, snapping Knox's head back, 'Lito then goes for an Irish whip across the ring, only for Knox to reverse... Carlito hits the turnbuckle hard, and here comes Knox... charging right into a boot to the face! Knox stumbles away, turning his back on 'Lito who nips up to the second rope... then takes Knox down with a diving bulldog! Knox is driven into the canvas, and 'Lito goes for an early cover... 1... 2... but Knox powers out easily. Looking to stay in control, 'Lito grabs a handful of hair and yanks Knox up, but Knox quickly shoves him away to the ropes, then races towards him... but Carlito low bridges... and Knox tumbles all the way to the floor! Knox smacks off the floor with a thud, but as he gets back on his feet, 'Lito is already waiting to attack, coming off the opposite ropes... baseball slide! Knox goes stumbling into the barricade, and 'Lito is right on him, landing more rights and lefts to the face and body, before he rolls Knox back under the bottom rope and follows in for another near fall.

'Lito tries to keep Knox down by laying in with more rights and lefts to the back, but Knox forces himself back up, prompting Carlito to go for an Irish whip off the ropes... which Knox reverses... and then he lines 'Lito up for a big boot to the face... no! 'Lito slides underneath, nips back to his feet... and sends Knox sprawling with a headscissor takedown! Knox bounds back up... right into an armdrag! Knox is reeling, on his hands and knees by the ropes, and after 'Lito tags him with lefts hands to the face, he then sends Knox to the corner and follows in... only for Knox to elevate 'Lito over the top rope... but Carlito lands on the apron! More left hands cause Knox to back away, allowing Carlito to sling onto the top rope... and score a springboard flying clothesline! 'Lito hooks the leg... 1... 2... Knox kicks out strongly. Annoyed with himself, Knox rolls to the outside to try break the momentum, but Carlito follows him out, spinning Knox around and then tagging him with more left hands to the face... but he takes one swing too many, as Knox ducks underneath... and then drives 'Lito spine first into the barricade! Carlito groans in pain, but it's about to get much worse as Knox hangs on, lifts him up in a bearhug... and then drives Carlito spine first into the ring post! Carlito crumples to the floor in pain, but there's no chance to rest as he's rolled back into the ring and Knox crawls into the lateral press... 1... 2... 'Lito rolls a shoulder!

Sensing he has Carlito hurt, Knox now looks to target the lower spine, locking 'Lito in a three-quarter facelock that not only allows him to drive knees into the midsection, but also to drop clubbing forearms to the back. Big impact moves such as backbreakers and scoop slams follow, gaining near falls, before Carlito is fired hard to the corner... and then he staggers forward... right into a sidewalk slam! This time Knox hooks the leg... 1... 2... 'Lito again rolls a shoulder. Knox works at a methodical pace as he lands more forearms, knees and headbutts to the spine, but when he goes for another scoop slam, 'Lito lands on his feet behind Knox! Carlito throws desperate shots to the face, staggering the big man, and now he goes for an Irish whip... but Knox rebounds off the ropes... then nails the FLYING BEAR! Carlito is absolutely engulfed, with Knox staying on for the lateral press... 1... 2... again Carlito kicks out! Knox never hooked the leg, and it might have cost him the win right there. After protesting to the referee, Knox yanks 'Lito back up, lands a few more forearms to the spine, then fires him off the ropes... into a BEARHUG... NO! Carlito counters... using the momentum to twist into a TORNADO DDT!

Out of nowhere 'Lito finally lands some offence, leaving both down and subject to the ten count. The referee makes it to six before both are back on their feet, Knox swinging and missing with a big right hand... and now 'Lito snaps off three lefts in a row, allowing him to go for an Irish whip off the ropes... but Knox reverses... only for 'Lito to jump to the second rope... SPRINGBOARD BACK ELBOW! Carlito connects, then hooks the leg... 1... 2... Knox kicks out! Knox is hanging in there, but the momentum is with 'Lito, who again snaps off lefts to the face, then lands a kick to the midsection which doubles Knox over. 'Lito now heads for the ropes... running knee lift snaps Knox up... and Carlito keeps on running... running clothesline... no! Knox swings a clothesline of his own... but 'Lito ducks... and scores a FLOWING DDT! Carlito has Knox down, but he doesn't go for the cover, instead he rises and waits for Knox, looking to put him away. Slowly Knox staggers to his feet... and here comes Carlito... but Knox turns at the last second... and smacks 'Lito with a big boot to the face! Just like that, the momentum shits, and now it's Knox who's wasting little time as he yanks 'Lito up by the hair... fires him off the ropes... and then lines him up... BICYCLE KICK... NO! Carlito avoids it with a baseball slide... then nips back onto his feet before Knox can turn around... BACKSTABBER!! Carlito gets all of it, and he quickly crawls over to hook the leg... 1... 2... 3!

Winner: Carlito @ 06.29

A confidence boosting win for Carlito as he sees off Knox to advance to the next round of the King of the Ring tournament. Pushing himself back to his feet, Carlito leans against the ropes and tries to recover from the heavy hitting he received at the hands of Knox, but soon he’s reaching through the ropes and asking Lillian Garcia for a microphone…


Carlito: Hey… hey how ‘bout ‘dat? Carlito just advanced in the King of ‘de Ring tournament. ‘Dat’s pretty cool, right?

A few cheers from the crowd as ‘Lito pauses to catch his breath…

Carlito: But what wasn’t cool… was what ‘dat little bitch Kenny and ‘dat whore Torrie did to Carlito last night at Backlash.

The crowd agree, voicing their displeasure with some boos…

Carlito: So Carlito wants to send Kenny a little message right now. Ju’ might be holdin’ ‘dat Intercontinental Title right now… but as soon as Carlito becomes King of ‘de Ring… Carlito’s comin’ back after ju’ and ‘dat title… and NOTHIN’ is gonna stop Carlito becomin’ champion. Now ‘dat… ‘dat’s cool!

*COOL…*

A pretty emphatic statement from ‘Lito, clearly making his intentions known that the situation between he and Dykstra is far from over. After tossing away the microphone, ‘Lito heads for the corner, climbing to the second rope to and posing for the crowd, and it’s on that image that we head into the commercial.

*Commercial*

We return and see Todd Grisham standing by, ready for an interview…


Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Monday Night Raw. And please welcome my guests at this time… Torrie Wilson… and the Intercontinental Champion… Kenny Dykstra.

Some very loud heat from inside the arena as Kenny Dykstra and Torrie Wilson enter the frame. Dykstra has a serious scowl on his face, and Torrie looks just as annoyed, the pair showing no remorse for their cheap actions last night…

Todd Grisham: And Kenny, obviously last night you lost your match to Carlito by disqualification, but of course, you still left Backlash as the Intercontinental Champion. Given what happened last night, and what we just heard from Carlito before the commercial… surely, there’s gotta be another rematch between the two of you?

Dykstra flashes Grisham a look of sheer disgust, shaking his head in disbelief before he finally answers…

Kenny Dykstra: Rematch? Are you kiddin’ me? Rematch!? What the hell has Carlito done to deserve another shot at my Intercontinental Title? Two times now he’s tried and failed to take this title away from me, two times he’s ran his mouth, sayin’ how he’s gonna beat me, and both times, he’s left a loser. And not only that, not only did he fail to become champion, then he had the nerve to spit apple all over me.

Torrie shudders with disgust as she recalls the incident from Backlash, with Kenny shaking his head at the thought of it…

Kenny Dykstra: Carlito couldn’t get the job done at WrestleMania… and he couldn’t get the job done at Backlash. And you think he deserves a third shot?

Dykstra brings a hand to his forehead, showing how incredulous an idea he thinks that is…

Kenny Dykstra: And to make it worse, Carlito thinks so as well! I mean seriously, the guy is as deluded as you, Todd!

Becoming more animated, Dykstra throws his hands up in annoyance…

Kenny Dykstra: The way I see it, Carlito’s had his chance… and he blew it. Just like he blew his relationship with Torrie.

Dykstra turns and shares a quick laugh with Torrie, who drapes a hand over Kenny’s shoulder…

Kenny Dykstra: So I don’t care what you think, or what he thinks, I am finished with Carlito. I’m bored of goin’ into title matches with him and leavin’ the champion. I want to focus on becomin’ King of the Ring and then… then I want some new competition for my Intercontinental Title.

Taking a quick glance down at the belt across his shoulder, Kenny drops the smug look from his face and narrows his eyes in a show of how serious he is…

Kenny Dykstra: But lemme make this crystal clear. Carlito… has had his chance. He’s had two title shots… and he ain’t getting’ a third.

And now Dykstra turns back to the camera…

Kenny Dykstra: So sit back and watch next week as ‘The Future Hall of Famer’ takes the next big step in his career… by becomin’ the 2007 King of the Ring. And if you ever even mention Carlito in another one o’ my interviews… it’ll be your last interview. You got me?

Kenny steps forward, towering over Grisham, who meekly nods in response. Pleased with how he’s intimidated the interviewer, Dykstra has a quick laugh to himself, but before he can turn and walk off, Dykstra’s eyes bulge… and then he blindsided… by Carlito!

‘Lito storms the scene and tackles Dykstra into the interview set, causing the nearby TV monitor to crash to the floor while the background set quickly tumbles down around them, causing Torrie to let out a scream. Carlito absolutely hammers Dykstra, mounting the Intercontinental Champion to fire down with a flurry of left and right hands, Dykstra desperately trying to cover up, but it’s no use as ‘Lito unleashes all his frustration and anger on the youngster. Carlito continues to land wild shots to the head and body, but just like that, a group of referee’s and agents hit the scene, and it takes four of them to drag Carlito off of Dykstra. The young champion is helped back to his feet by Torrie, but as we see Carlito literally dragged kicking and screaming out of the shot, the fear in the champion’s eyes is clear for all to see as we hear Carlito shout “Ju’re mine Dykstra! ‘Dis ain’t over!” and after a few seconds of big eyes and heavy breathing from the champ, we head back into the arena.

And we hear…

*HART BEAT…*

That legendary guitar rift rips through the arena, the fans on their feet as The Hart Legacy make their entrance. Leading the way with a spring in her step is Natalya Niedhart, who confidently heads down the ramp, while Harry Smith and Tyson Kidd follow her down, high fiving with the fans, the trio looking much more happy than they have done in previous weeks…


Joey Styles: What a big night Backlash was for this young team, their first appearance on WWE pay per view and they picked up a very convincing victory. But tonight, Natalya and Melina are takin’ the night off as Smith and Kidd take on Nitro and Masters in tag team action.

Jim Ross: It was certainly an impressive display from The Hart Legacy, one that proved they belong here on Raw. If they managed to follow it up with another win right here, you gotta think they’d be in with a great chance of earnin’ a future title shot against Haas and Benjamin.

Jerry Lawler: Yeah but getting’ that win tonight might not be as easy as getting’ the win last night after that little pep talk Melina gave Nitro and Masters. I’m sure this is gonna be a much harder match for Smith and Kidd to win.

*PAPARAZZI…*

The red carpet rolls out, the photographers start snapping away, and Melina steps out arm in arm with Johnny Nitro and Chris Masters, with Masters still wearing that ridiculous fur jacket. As they approach the ring, Nitro and Masters seem to be back on the same page as they stand back and watch as Melina performs her trademark ring entrance…


Jerry Lawler: Well, I don’t know if Melina’s gonna finally be able to lead this team to a victory, but after seein’ that entrance, she could lead me anywhere she wants!

Jim Ross: Let’s try stay focused here, ‘King’. Nitro and Masters first joined forces to try and put their own individual losing streaks behind ‘em, but all that’s happened is that they’ve continued to lose as a unit. Can they rebound from another defeat at Backlash by finally getting’ a victory here tonight?

Joey Styles: I just wonder what’s gonna happen if they lose right here. I mean, they were close to blows last night, another defeat against The Hart Legacy could see this team pushed to breaking point. And I dunno if Melina’s charm is gonna be enough to keep ‘em together if it all breaks down again…

Match 2: Tag Team Match
The Hart Legacy
w/Natalya Niedhart vs. Johnny Nitro and Chris Masters w/Melina

In a reversal from last night, it's Nitro and Kidd who kick this one off, the two quickly moving in towards each other for a tie up, one which Nitro quickly turns into a standing waistlock. Kidd counters with a waistlock of his own... only for Nitro to wrench control back... and then take Kidd down with a waistlock takedown. Nitro tries to hang on, but Kidd slips free, quickly back on his feet to drill Nitro with a stiff kick to the spine, and then he charges off the ropes... low angle dropkick catches Nitro flush on the jaw! Here’s an early cover… but Nitro quickly kicks out. Kidd now strikes with kicks to the chest that back Nitro the corner, where he tags in Smith. Harry steps in and drills a few rights to the midsection and face, before he fires Nitro off the ropes… into a big back body drop! Nitro is quickly back on his feet… but a clothesline puts him straight back down! Again Nitro is up… another clothesline knocks him down! This time Smith has to drag Nitro back up… and then he hooks him up… and takes him up into the air… for a delayed vertical suplex! Smith crawls into the cover… 1… 2… Nitro kicks out. Smith now winds up and looks to send Nitro off the ropes, but as he rebounds off them, Masters slaps Nitro on the back for a blind tag… Smith traps Nitro and takes him down with a belly to belly suplex… but when he’s back on his feet, Masters clobbers him from behind!

It’s all legal, and now Masters lays in with a series of boots to the body, then he drops a trio of elbows, before he grabs Smith by the foot and drags him towards the heel corner. With Smith’s head against the bottom turnbuckle, Masters jams his foot into the throat, choking him, and when the ref calls for the breaks, Masters distracts him long enough to allow Melina to continue the choking from the outside. Masters continues to lay in with the power moves, showing impressive strength as he rocks Smith with a backbreaker, as well as landing more forearms and knees to the body. Nitro gets the tag, and he lays in with more stomps and then connects with a side Russian legsweep for a near fall, before he brings Masters back in who fires Smith off the ropes… straight into a sidewalk slam! Masters goes for the cover… 1… 2… Smith rolls a shoulder! Nitro and Masters now work to keep Smith isolated from Kidd, and again they look to do damage in the corner as Masters lays in with a string of shoulder thrusts that cause Smith to drop to a seated position, before Nitro tags in and smashes his knee into Smith’s face. The pair continue to make quick tags, with Masters getting a near fall from a Samoan drop, while Nitro gets a long two count with an enzuigiri. Nitro has Smith down in the corner, and seeking a way to put him away, Nitro leaps up and comes off the ropes with a SPLIT-LEGGED CORKSCREW MOONSAULT… but Smith gets his knees up!

Saving himself, Smith causes Nitro to crumble in pain, and now the young powerhouse starts to crawl towards his corner… Nitro tags in Masters… but Smith tags in Kidd! Masters charges across the ring, but Kidd sees him coming and slings himself to the top rope… springboard clothesline! Kidd quickens the pace as he comes off the ropes… running headscissors takedown! Masters is reeling, but here comes Nitro to try even the odds… but Kidd sees him coming, ducks underneath a clothesline… then comes off the ropes for a running leg lariat! Turning back to Masters, Kidd smacks a few more kicks to the chest, and then he sends Masters to the corner and tags in Smith… and then Kidd sends Smith to the same corner with an Irish whip… adding momentum as Smith crushes Masters against the turnbuckle! As Masters stumbles to the middle of the ring, Smith heads for the ropes… but Melina low bridges them… and Smith crashes to the floor! Melina stands over Harry, taunting him, but that means she doesn’t see Natalya racing around the ring… big clothesline levels Melina! With Smith down on the outside, Kidd is outnumbered in the ring, but he takes the fight to Nitro… clothesline sends Nitro to the floor! Kidd now turns back to the ring… only for Masters to hammer him with a massive spinebuster! Kidd is absolutely planted, and now Masters waits for him to rise, looking to lock on the MASTERLOCK… only for Nitro to tag himself in! Masters can’t believe it, wondering what on earth Nitro is doing, but Nitro pleads his case, saying he wants to get the win to prove himself to Melina… but as the pair argue, Kidd uses the ropes to drag himself back up, then slings onto them… SPRINGBOARD DROPKICK… TO BOTH MEN! The impact knocks Masters through the ropes to the floor, and now Nitro is left in the ring with Kidd… just as Smith slips back in. Kidd fires Nitro off the ropes… but Nitro jumps to the second and looks for a SPRINGBOARD CROSSBODY… but Smith catches him on his shoulder… and nails the RUNNING POWERSLAM!! Smith plants Nitro, hooks the leg… 1… 2… 3!

Winners: The Hart Legacy @ 05.53

Another win for Smith and Kidd, but yet another defeat for Nitro as he again has his shoulders pinned to the canvas. Smith and Kidd are back on their feet, sharing a hug and having their arms raised by Natalya, while on the outside Melina lets out a scream of anguish. Seeing the seething Melina and Masters slide back into the ring, the Harts waste little time in heading for the outside where they celebrate with the fans with more high fives, while in the ring Masters stands with his hands on his hips, shaking his head in disbelief at yet another defeat.

Melina can’t seem to believe it either, ripping and tearing at her wild hair, but soon she drops down to her knees and tries to bring Nitro back around. A few gentle slaps of the face and a shove of the shoulders wakes Nitro up, with Johnny managing to sit back up, and then he’s helped back to his feet by Melina, with Masters clearly not interested in offering any help to his partner. Slowly Nitro is helped back to his feet, Melina propping him up, with Nitro rubbing his jaw and grabbing the back of his neck in pain. Looking apologetic, Nitro struggles for words, but his emotions clearly show how disappointed he is to have let Melina down again. Melina appears to show sympathy as she tenderly strokes Nitro’s face… until her look turns to that of sheer fury… and then MELINA SLAPS NITRO HARD ACROSS THE FACE!

The crowd is as stunned as Nitro is as he recoils and grabs his face… only for Masters to sneak up from behind… and LOCK NITRO IN THE MASTERLOCK!! Nitro is trapped in Masters’ arms, his head flailing as he’s violently swung back and forth, and Melina… she’s encouraging Masters! Desperately, Nitro tries to fight it, but there’s no escape, and soon he begins to pass out in Masters’ arms. Melina is loving it, shouting for Masters to keep up the pressure, but it’s pointless as Nitro is out cold… but before Masters can toss him to the mat, Melina lines up… and DELIVERS A SECOND SLAP TO THE FACE!! A few jerks of the Masterlock from Masters and then he finally flings Nitro down to the canvas, the partnership in ruins, but more than that, the years long relationship between Nitro and Melina seems to be over as well.

As Masters and Melina stand over Nitro, Melina places a hand on Masters’ shoulder, clearly pleased with what just transpired. The two look to each other and nod, exchanging smiles, clearly indicating that this whole thing was a setup of sorts. As the pair start to leave and head for the ropes, Masters sits down on the second rope and holds it open for Melina… but instead of leaving, Melina decides she has one last task to perform. Grabbing Nitro’s fur jacket that was hanging on the ringpost, Melina holds it over Nitro... and then carefully places it over his body. It’s a symbolic gesture, one that draws a strong level of boos from the crowd, but clearly Melina and Masters don’t give a damn, making their exit as they head up the ramp, while the last image we see before we head for the commercial is that of Nitro laid out in the centre of the ring, covered by a fur coat, his partnership with Masters and his relationship with Melina well and truly finished.

*Commercial*

And when we return, we see Johnny Nitro very gingerly walking backstage, limping, holding his neck, clearly in pain, his body and his pride having taken an absolute pounding in the previous segment. Nitro carries with him the fur coat that was laid over him, slowly walking along a corridor, looking like he’s almost close to tears. As Nitro continues his slow, silent walk, he’s comes across a trash can. Looking down on it, it looks like Nitro is searching for career inside of it, until suddenly he holds up the fur coat… takes a long look at it… and then down on the trash can… before he emphatically tosses the fur coat down into the trash. Taking one last look at it, Nitro shakes his head and then turns to continue to slowly limp away, the camera staying focused on the jacket in the trash can, before we cut elsewhere.

And now we see the always bubbly Maria standing by at the interview set…


Maria: Hi! I’m Maria! And welcome back to Raw everyone! And please welcome my guest at this time… ‘Mr. Money in the Bank’… Randy Orton.

Loud boos from inside the arena as Randy Orton steps towards Maria, the interviewer taking a slight step back in intimidation…

Maria: Now Randy, last night at Backlash you successfully defended your Money in the Bank briefcase against Jeff Hardy. But now that you’ve held onto your briefcase, and you’re not entered in the King of the Ring tournament… what’s next for you?

Orton rolls his eyes and crosses his arms across his chest, clearly not interested in answering the question…

Randy Orton: What’s next for me? What’s next for me is none of your concern, Maria. As far as the King of the Ring is concerned, I don’t need to win some tournament to prove my credentials. This right here…

Orton holds his briefcase up infront of his face for all to see…

Randy Orton: Is worth far more than any crown or sceptre might be. This briefcase guarantees me a title shot at any time, and now that I’ve managed to hold onto it… Rob Van Dam… and for that matter, Batista… now it’s time for the two of you to start looking over your shoulder again.

Now turning to the camera, Orton stares down the lens intently…

Randy Orton: You might think you’re finished with John Cena, but Rob, I just want you to know… that you’re far… from finished… with me.

Heat from inside the arena…

Randy Orton: So tonight in your match with Claudio Cesaro… you better worry about hanging onto that title against him… and you better worry about me. ‘Cause I am ready to strike at a moment’s notice… and I won’t make any mistakes. When I make my move… I will become a champion again.

Orton thinks about wrapping it up and walking away, but he stops himself, remembering that he has more to say…

Randy Orton: Oh… and while I’m here… I just want to take this chance to encourage the WWE Board of Directors to do the right thing tonight… and find in favour of Mr. McMahon and allow him to continue to run Monday Night Raw. We don’t need his wife Linda in charge, laying down more rulings like the one that bans me from using this briefcase as a weapon.

And now once again Orton stares a hole through the camera…

Randy Orton: Raw was doing fine before Linda stuck her nose in. She should go back to the boardroom and concentrate on the business side of things, and leave the in-ring side… to the professionals.

And with his message firmly made, Orton takes one last menacing look at Maria before he makes his exit, leaving Maria behind to watch him go as we head back into the arena.

To see the smiling faces of our announce team…


Jim Ross: Certainly an ominous warning from ‘Mr. Money in the Bank’, Randy Orton, towards our WWE Champion, Rob Van Dam. As if ‘RVD’ didn’t have enough to worry about tonight by defending his title against the newcomer, Claudio Cesaro, he now has to worry about Orton cashin’ in his Money in the Bank contract at any second.

Joey Styles: When you think about what Van Dam went through last night at Backlash, and then add in what he’s got ahead of him tonight with Claudio Cesaro, the unknown quantity, and now Randy Orton, poised to strike like a viper with that Money in the Bank briefcase, it’s been a pretty wild last 24 hours for the WWE Champion.

Jerry Lawler: Well while Backlash mighta been a success for Rob Van Dam, but for Shawn Michaels and Triple H, it was a night of hell. In a No Holds Barred Match, ‘The Game’ and ‘The Heartbreak Kid’ took part in their final battle… and it was one that Triple H didn’t survive.

Jim Ross: Let’s take you back and show some of the highlights of one of the most personal, hellacious matches I’ve ever seen. Let’s take a look…

*Video Package*

HIGHLIGHTS FROM LAST NIGHT AT BACKLASH

We see a few quick fire images of the match, starting with the early goings when Triple H was in control, the fight heading towards the control area where Michaels is sent sprawling across a table and is then back body dropped onto the stage.

Back into the ring, where ‘The Game’ has a steel chair in his hand, and he unloads on Michaels’ spine time and time again.

The tide turns as Michaels wraps an electrical cable around Triple H’s throat, choking ‘The Game’, and then smacks a monitor off his skull.

The symbolic moment where ‘The Game’ is trapped against the ropes, almost in a crucifix position, allowing Michaels to relentlessly strike with a kendo stick to Triple H’s midsection, and then turns his attention to Triple H’s knee, smacking the stick off of it time and time again.

The battle heads back outside and spirals on top of the Spanish announce desk, where ‘The Game’ blocks a Sweet Chin Music attempt, then counters with a Pedigree that shatters the table.

Michaels does more damage to the leg, this time with a flying elbow drop onto a steel chair that was wrapped around the ankle of ‘The Game’.

Which is then followed up with a painful figure four leg lock, but ‘The Game’ shows incredible guts to somehow reverse the hold.

Both men defy the odds as Triple H kicks out of a Sweet Chin Music, while Michaels survives a Pedigree.

And finally the finish, as Triple H lines Michaels up for a sledgehammer shot to the skull, only for Michaels to drag the referee infront of the shot saving himself. This allows Michaels to attack the knee, and then he looks to finish off ‘The Game’… who gives Michaels a DX chop… before Michaels ends things with an emphatic sledgehammer shot to the skull.

And in the post-match, with Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley in tears as her husband is carted out of the arena on a stretcher, Michaels crosses Triple H, only to receive a slap to the face for his troubles… to which ‘HBK’ simply offers an eerie smirk and then disappears backstage.


*End Video Package*

From the package, we cut back to the announce desk, where our announce team now look far more solemn than before…

Jim Ross: It was hard to watch live, and it’s just as hard to see it again. Shawn Michaels, his transformation, his metamorphosis if you will, was completed last night in the symbolic nature of his victory over Triple H. I thought there was a chance that Shawn could be saved almost, by Triple H, but I think any chance of us getting’ back the old Shawn Michaels, was well and truly lost at Backlash.

Jerry Lawler: It was a sad night for all of us who knew and who loved Shawn Michaels. A night I’ll never forget. And I… honestly, I’m worried about what could be next for ‘The Heartbreak Kid’.

Joey Styles: Well folks, as we mentioned earlier, Triple H is still in a Memphis medical facility, his wife, Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley by his side, but Shawn Michaels is here tonight, and we are scheduled to hear from Michaels later tonight. I can’t wait to hear what he has to say…

And after a few seconds silence we hear…

*THIS FIRE BURNS…*

And the arena is on it’s feet once more as The Straight Edge Saints emerge from the back, with CM Punk dropping down to a knee, tapping the imaginery watch on his wrist, holding it up to the ear of Kelly Kelly before he yells out “It’s clobberin’ time!” and Punk leads Kelly and Nick Dinsmore down the ramp…


Jim Ross: Backlash was not a successful night for the Straight Edge Saints as they came up short in their quest for the World Tag Championships. But tonight, CM Punk gets a chance to redeem himself as he looks to advance in the King of the Ring tournament.

Jerry Lawler: All it took last night was just a moments distraction on the part of Nick Dinsmore and Haas and Benjamin took advantage to retain their titles. But for me, both Punk and Dinsmore have the chance to go far in this tournament.

Joey Styles: I’d even go as far as to say that CM Punk is a favourite to win the whole tournament. I’m pretty sure he’ll be headin’ to Saturday Night’s Main Event, and I think he’s gonna go far.

*SWEET ‘N’ SOUR…*

A pretty decent level of heat welcomes The ******* Wrecking Crew into the arena, the two angry ******** Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch striding to the ring with a purpose, both men pointing at the ring and throwing some trash talk in that direction…


Jim Ross: Last week, Lance Cade went one on one with Triple H, with Cade revealing that he was a former student of Shawn Michaels when Michaels ran his own wrestling school before returnin’ to the WWE. And while Cade vowed to soften up ‘The Game’ ahead of Backlash, it didn’t quite work out that way, as Triple H smashed both Cade and Murdoch.

Joey Styles: And Cade and Murdoch were both pretty ticked off about that, so much so that early today, they recorded these messages…

*Video Package*

EARLIER TODAY

We cut to the interview area where stood before us are The ******* Wrecking Crew, with as stern, pissed off look on the face off Trevor Murdoch, while Lance Cade wears a brace around his neck, bookending his face with his cowboy hat. Feeling sorry for himself, Cade rubs his jaw and winces, leaving Murdoch to start the talking…

Trevor Murdoch: Y’know somethin’? Last week, that jackass Triple H, he embarrassed me and Lance. He made a fool outta us, and more important than that… he pissed off the wrong pair o’ ********.

Lance Cade: And now, it’s gonna be the so-called Superstars o’ Monday Night Raw that’s gonna pay the price!

A devilish smirk cross Murdoch’s face as he nods along with Cade…

Trevor Murdoch: That’s right. And it’s all gonna start tonight. Y’see me and Lance, we’re in this lil’ King o’ the Ring tournament. And we plan on goin’ a long, long way in it. And that means doin’ what we do best.

Lance Cade: Kickin’ ass… and smackin’ skulls.

An angry snarl now crosses Murdoch’s face as he points down the lens…

Trevor Murdoch: We AIN’T gonna be embarrassed no more! And that means CM Punk… you’re gonna get an ass kickin’ tonight… ******* style.

And in a show of aggression, Murdoch rips off his trucker hat and throws it at the camera, storming off the screen, leaving Cade behind, who flashes a stern looking smirk before he too makes his exit.


*End Video Package*

And now we’re back into the arena, where all four men are in the ring, the trash talking and finger talking continuing from Cade and Murdoch…

Jerry Lawler: Well certainly some strong words from Cade and Murdoch right there. I think the intensity of this match just went up a notch. Let’s see if Murdoch lives up to those words and advances to the next round of the King of the Ring…

Match 3: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
CM Punk
w/ Nick Dinsmore and Kelly Kelly vs. Trevor Murdoch w/ Lance Cade

After some initial circling of the ring, the two come together and snap into a collar and elbow tie up... which sees Murdoch shove Punk down to the canvas in the corner! A touch of arrogance from Murdoch as he doesn't take advantage, instead he waves Punk back to the centre of the ring, the two tying up once more, but this time Punk works into a standing waistlock. After trying and failing to break Punk's grip, Murdoch is then ran into the ropes as Punk locks for a rollup... but Murdoch grabs the top rope, sending Punk tumbling backwards. Punk bursts back to his feet, but here comes Murdoch... who runs straight into a leg lariat! Punk is straight back up, catching Murdoch with kicks to the thighs and chest, before a big standing roundhouse to the head sends Murdoch staggering backwards to the corner. More kicks land, this time to the midsection, before Punk winds up the Irish whip... only for Murdoch to reverse it and follow in... right into a back elbow! Punk now runs from the corner, ducking underneath a Murdoch clothesline and then rebounding off the far away ropes... flying clothesline! Murdoch burst back to his feet... but runs into an armdrag! Again Murdoch is up... another armdrag puts him down again... and then on the third occasion, a scoop slam makes sure Murdoch stays down. Punk now heads to the corner, climbing to the top rope... but before he can fly, Cade drags Murdoch under the bottom rope to the safety of the outside!

The crowd loudly jeer Cade's antics as he brings Punk's momentum to a halt, but as Cade and Murdoch huddle in an attempt to regroup, they don't see Punk charging off the far away ropes... SUICIDE DIVE... TAKES OUT BOTH MEN! Punk launches himself through the ropes, sending Cade and Murdoch sprawling to the floor, and he wastes no time in yanking Murdoch back up to roll him under the bottom rope. Punk then nips up onto the apron and slings himself onto the top rope... but before he can springboard into an offensive manoeuvre, Cade nips up onto the apron and shoves Punk... sending him crashing to the canvas! The ref never saw it, but Dinsmore did, prompting him to race round the ring to confront Cade, only for Cade to quickly sneak away. In the ring, Murdoch now looks to take advantage by dropping numerous stomps to Punk's midsection, following this up with a trio of elbow drops, followed by a near fall. As Murdoch yanks Punk back up, he repeatedly drives his knee into Punk's gut, backing him to the corner. Murdoch goes for the Irish whip across... but Punk reverses and follows in... looking to drive his shoulder into the midsection... but Murdoch sidesteps it... and Punk smacks shoulder first off the ringpost! Kelly Kelly winces as Punk groans in pain, and when he stumbles from the corner... Murdoch levels him with a massive boot to the face! Now Murdoch drops down into the lateral press... 1... 2... Punk kicks out.

Murdoch is in full control now, and he looks to target the left shoulder, driving the point of his elbow several times to the top of the arm, then drives his foot into Punk's face while trying to yank the arm right out the socket. Punk is then shoved to the ropes, allowing Murdoch to drape the arm across the middle rope and apply all his weight on top of it. As the ref calls for the break and backs Murdoch away, Cade races in and lands a cheap shot, again drawing the ire of Dinsmore who just misses out on getting his hands on Cade. Murdoch continues to apply pressure to the arm, landing elbow and legdrops across it, then aiming more stomps to the shoulder, before he finally takes Punk up and down with a shoulderbreaker for a long two count. Murdoch now slaps on a grounded hammerlock, determined to keep Punk down while causing damage to the arm. Murdoch continualy yanks on the arm, upping the pressure, causing Punk to goran in pain, but Kelly and Dinsmore try to rally the crowd, and the fans support feeds Punk's desire to make it back to his feet. Once there, Punk throws the elbow of his free arm in a desperate attempt to break the hold, and after landing three to the jaw, Murdoch finally lets go, allowing Punk to swing a right hand... but Murdoch ducks underneath, then hooks Punk up from behind... FULL NELSON SLAM! Punk is painfully driven to the mat, and now Murdoch hooks the leg... 1... 2... Punk barely kicks out! Murdoch storms to his feet and confronts the ref, demanding it was three, only for the two count to be confirmed. Punk uses the ropes to hoist himself back up, but a scoop slam plants him again, which allows Murdoch to head for the corner and climb to the second rope. Murdoch lines Punk up... then he flies... DIVING LEGDROP... NOBODY HOME!

Punk rolls to safety, leaving Murdoch to crash to the canvas, and now Punk is back on his feet first, smacking kicks to the head and body, driving Murdoch back to the corner, where he goes for an Irish whip... but Murdoch reverses and follows in... Punk avoids it... and Murdoch runs smack into the turnbuckle! Stumbling back, Murdoch doesn't see Punk charge off the ropes... running leg lariat! Murdoch crawls to the corner, but when he drags himself up, Punk makes his move... step up high knee... and then Punk hangs on for the bulldog! Punk rolls Murdoch over... 1... 2... Murdoch rolls a shoulder! Dejected but determined to carry on, Punk is back on his feet, waiting for Murdoch to rise... and when he does, Punk makes his move... scoops Murdoch up onto his shoulders... GTS... NO! Cade jumps up onto the apron, and almost on instinct, Punk drops Murdoch to the mat... but here comes Dinsmore... dragging Cade back down... then tagging him with a big right hand! Cade is down, but here comes Murdoch from behind... running big boot... Punk avoids it... and Murdoch kicks the ropes! A painful collision for Murdoch, and once again he's staggers right into Punk's clutches... GO TO SLEEP!! Punk gets all of it, and he hooks the leg for the 1... 2... 3!

Winner: CM Punk @ 06.28

A strong win for CM Punk, but as soon as the three count is made and the ref calls for the bell, Lance Cade picks himself back up… and clobbers Nick Dinsmore from behind! Dinsmore smacks off the floor, and now Cade slides under the bottom rope and starts hammering Punk with a series of boots and stomps! Despite the brace he wears around his neck, Cade shows his legs are perfectly fine as he absolute destroys Punk with the boots… but here comes Dinsmore sliding into the ring… and he tags Cade with a big right hand! Dinsmore comes to the rescue, saving his partner as he lands right after right to the face… until he’s blindsided by a big boot to the face from Murdoch!

Dinsmore is sent flying to the canvas, his head bouncing off the mat with serious force, with Cade and Murdoch both now laying into him with boots to the chest. Satisfied that they’ve laid Dinsmore out, Cade and Murdoch now start to circle the fallen Punk, standing either side of him, waiting for him to rise… and when he does, Kelly Kelly has her face in her hands… as Cade and Murdoch attack… SWEET ‘N’ SOUR!! Punk’s head is damn near taken off as he's hammered to the mat, the crowd throwing a ton of heat at the ring as The ******* Wrecking Crew stand tall, their pre-match words coming to fruition as they’ve just laid out The Straight Edge Saints. Happy with the damage they’ve caused, the duo exit the ring and start to make their way backstage, leaving Kelly to bring her team back around as we head to a commercial.

*Commercial*

We’re back from commercial, and straight back into the arena for a few seconds silence… until…

*SEXY BOY…*

The heat is nuclear, and it only grows louder as Shawn Michaels slowly makes his way out from the back. Limping slightly, Michaels shows the effects of the match from last night, but as usual there’s no emotion from the man dressed head to toe in black, his cowboy hat pulled down over his eyes, but as usual, we catch a glimpse of his emotionless face as he drops down to his knees, turns his head to the heavens and says a silent prayer, before gingerly getting back to his feet and then heading for the ring…


Joey Styles: Welcome back to Raw folks. There you see the man who at Backlash quite possibly could have ended the career of 'The Game', Triple H. It was bloody, it was violent, it was sure as hell personal, and when it was all over, it was Shawn who watched his former best friend leave the arena on a stretcher.

Jerry Lawler: Well, it might have been the most hate-fuelled match in WWE history, and it might have been pretty disgusting on Shawn Michaels' part given what he did after the bell, but credit where credit's due, Michaels did what he went out there to achieve. He said all along, he needed to take out Triple H, he needed that closure, and last night he got it.

Jim Ross: But at what price, 'King'? Was it really worth another man's career? Was it worth what Michaels did with that sledgehammer? I don't think so. Shawn can talk about faith all he wants, last night had nothin' to do with faith if ya' ask me. That was sheer, vile hatred. I felt sick watchin' it, and I don't think I'm gonna feel any better listenin' to Michaels right here...

In the ring, Michaels has a microphone in hand, his head still looking down as he waits for his music to end. As the music dies down, the heat from the fans is deafening, with Michaels barely acknowledging it, his eyes remaining distant and without emotion. Slowly the boos start to ease off, allowing Michaels the chance to speak...

Shawn Michaels: I did try to tell ya'.

A hush from the crowd as Michaels simply shrugs his shoulders...

Shawn Michaels: I did try and warn ya', Hunter. I said it all along... and you all thought I was crazy. You all said I wasn't thinkin' straight, that I wasn't right in the head, that this wasn't the same 'ol 'Aitch – Bee – Kay. But all along... I told ya' what was gonna happen.

Still not many boos, not that Michaels is caring as he starts to pace back and forth...

Shawn Michaels: I talked about faith, I talked about belief, and I talked about how it was faith that was gonna deliver me to a better place. It was faith that was gonna rid me of the evils in my life. It was faith... that was gonna make me happy again.

A wry smirk cross Michaels face as he pauses...

Shawn Michaels: And I knew this was gonna happen... 'cause of faith... and 'cause I'd seen it.

Still the crowd are subdued, not sure how to respond to Michaels' words...

Shawn Michaels: Call it a vision, call it a dream, call it a prophecy... it doesn't matter what ya' call it, all that matters is that when I lay my head down in bed at night and I closed my eyes... I could see it all. The pain in Hunter's eyes, the anger from Stephanie... and the sorrow in little Aurora Rose's eyes. I seen it all.

Michaels ruefully shakes his head...

Shawn Michaels: And that's why I tried to tell Hunter that the best thing he could do for his career, for his body... for his family... was to walk away. I told 'im to leave the WWE, to get outta my way, 'cause I knew what was gonna happen. But... Hunter chose not to listen. And now?

Pausing, Michaels purses his lips, thinking long and hard about what happened last night...

Shawn Michaels: Now he's stuck in a Memphis hospital, maybe with a broken neck, but definitely with a broken body... a broken spirit... and a broken career. And why? 'Cause he's too damn selfish to listen to what's best for 'im. Y’see, throughout his career, and throughout the time we spent together as D-Generation X… I always knew what was right. I knew that when Hunter put the future of D-X on the line to get another shot at the tag titles… that wasn’t right. But at Night of Champions when I smacked that steel chair off his skull and became WWE Champion… that was right.

Nodding, Michaels seems to believe every word he's saying...

Shawn Michaels: And how did I know that was the right thing to do? Like I’ve said all along… it’s all a matter of faith.

And now some heat from the crowd, a chorus of boos ringing out...

Shawn Michaels: And that’s why I know that my actions at Backlash… whether you people agree with ‘em or not… were the right thing to do. Not right for Hunter, not right for any of you, not right for the WWE… but right for me.

Michaels squarely points a finger to his chest to emphasis his point...

Shawn Michaels: And if Hunter wants to look for somebody to blame for what happened to ‘im… then he oughta look within ‘imself… and question his faith.

And more boos...

Shawn Michaels: You people can boo all ya’ want, but let’s be honest here… if we’re tellin’ a few home truths, it’s not like he didn’t deserve it. Just think of all the people over the years who he left broken and crippled. Just think of all the people he stabbed in the back. All the so called friends he turned his back on. For years he’s been one of the most selfish, egotistical men that ever stepped foot in this ring. And now that it’s finally all came back to haunt ‘im, now that his sins have finally all came back to bite ‘im on the ass… and just because it’s ol’ ‘HBK’ who was the man that told ya’ along he was gonna pay for those sins… you people boo me?

With his head down, the camera sees the look of disgust on Michaels' face as he shakes his head...

Shawn Michaels: Well, I’m gonna do the right thing, I’m gonna listen to what’s gotten me this far… and I’m gonna turn the other check. I’m gonna… absolve you of all this… and I forgive you.

Holding out a hand to the masses, Michaels soaks in the heat the fans throw back at him, but it doesn't affect 'HBK' as he carries right on...

Shawn Michaels: But while I forgive you fans for your opinion… don’t think for a second that I’m gonna start playin’ up to you people again. I’ve spent the last five years since I came back to this company tryin’ to please all of you, and it didn’t get me anywhere. Ever since I started lookin’ out for myself, and doin’ what I know to be right… I’ve been WWE Champion again… and I just sent my former best friend… and that guy who has done nothin’ but hold me back… into a permanent state of retirement. And I know that now I’m this close to getting’ back my smile… I’m not about to start listenin’ to you people again.

More heat...

Shawn Michaels: And as far as I’m concerned, now that Triple H is set for a life of pain and sufferin’… my issue with him is done… and I’ve got nothin’ else to say about ‘im.

Taking a deep breath and closing his eyes for a few seconds, Michaels composes himself then carries on...

Shawn Michaels: But right now, I’m on a journey. A journey back to happiness, a journey back to find my smile again. For a lotta years, I didn’t have it, then I found it, and then… at WrestleMania… I lost it again. But now I got Triple H outta my life… it’s time to go get my smile back. And that means one thing… the WWE Championship.

A real buzz of anticipation from the crowd, excited by the prospect of a Michaels/Van Dam title match...

Shawn Michaels: And that means that Rob Van Dam… you’re the right man… in the wrong place… at the wrong time.

A mixture of boos and cheers now...

Shawn Michaels: WrestleMania XXIII… I went out there like I do at every WrestleMania… and I stole the show. And you… just like Triple H, were lucky enough to come along for the ride. You’d never had that WrestleMania moment before Rob, and I gave it to you. But not only did you get that once in a lifetime moment you always dreamed off… you took my WWE Title too. And now… now I want it back.

Michaels delivers that last sentence with a real sense of desire...

Shawn Michaels: I’ve closed my eyes, I’ve said my prayers… and I saw the pain that Triple H suffered at Backlash. I saw that, but I’ve seen somethin’ else too. I’ve seen you Rob. I’ve seen the pressure you’ve been under. I’ve felt it. And I’ve seen the cracks startin’ to form. And I’ve seen that one day, somebody’s gonna take advantage o’ that.

Pausing, Michaels again smirks to himself...

Shawn Michaels: And y’know what else I’ve seen Rob? That somebody’s… gonna be me.

More heat...

Shawn Michaels: But Rob, I’m gonna give you a warnin’. The same warnin’ I gave to Hunter. Backlash… it didn’t have to be that way for him. And Rob…

Michaels emphatically looks straight down the lens of the nearest camera and says...

Shawn Michaels: It doesn’t have to be that way for you either. Triple H suffered ‘cause he chose not to listen. Don’t make that same mistake, Rob.

Staying near the camera, Michaels now points a finger...

Shawn Michaels: With Hunter at Backlash, it was personal. It was the most personal situation I’ve ever been involved in. You, Rob? It’s not personal… yet. And if you’re smart… you won’t make it that way. Let Backlash and the sight of Triple H leavin’ the arena on a stretcher be a warnin’… and you make sure you listen to it. ‘Cause if you make it personal between us Rob… that’s exactly what’s gonna happen to you.

And now Michaels turns away from the camera, the boos ringing out for his words...

Shawn Michaels: Hunter was my friend. I knew his wife, I knew his kid, I knew everythin’ about him. I don’t know the same about you Rob… don’t gimme a reason to find out.

With his head lowered, the camera zooms in to see Michaels close his eyes as he finishes that statement...

Shawn Michaels: After Backlash last night, when I got back to my hotel room, I lay my head down on that pillow and I closed my eyes…

A look of relief crosses Michaels' face...

Shawn Michaels: And for the first time in months, it wasn’t Hunter in pain that I saw. It was you, Rob.

Looking to the heavens, Michaels again simply soaks in the jeers before pressing on...

Shawn Michaels: It was you layin’ on the mat, a beaten man… and me standin’ over you, with the WWE Championship in my hands… and a smile… on my face.

No smile just now from 'HBK', who has that cold look in his eyes...

Shawn Michaels: But all that can change. I could close my eyes one night… and then I’m lookin’ at you, leavin’ an arena on a stretcher. I could see that pain on your wife’s eyes. I could see your body bein’ broken… just like your career.

The boos intensify now...

Shawn Michaels: You've had your WrestleMania moment, Rob. The dream came true. But I know better than anybody how that feels. I lived that dream once. 1996, WrestleMania XII... 'the boyhood dream came true'... fast forward two years, WrestleMania XIV... that dream became a nightmare. I broke my back, my body was a wreck, my mind wasn't clear... I was left just like I left Hunter last night.

Pondering, Michaels seems to be contemplating with himself over what happened last night...

Shawn Michaels: And if you're not careful Rob... if you don't heed my warnin'... that's exactly how I'm gonna leave you.

A real sense of venom in how Michaels delivered that last line, something the crowd picks up on...

Shawn Michaels: The whole fightin' champion, takin' on all comers, anytime, anywhere, I get it... I've been there, I've done it. Y'think you're doin' to entertain the fans, to please these people... but when I take that title away from you Rob, these people... they aren't gonna give a damn about you. So you take your matches with the new guy, you try and keep yourself busy for a couple o' weeks, and you keep tellin' yourself that you're doin' it for each and every person who bought a ticket.

Heat...

Shawn Michaels: You might have these people fooled... but it doesn't impress me. 'Cause I know it's all lies. I know... it's not right.

Michaels now heads towards the ropes, leaning against them, looking up the ramp at the entrance way...

Shawn Michaels: So 'RVD', I am officially puttin' you on notice. I want back what's rightfully mine, I want back my WWE Title. And if you don't give it to me?

And the promo comes full circle as Michaels offers up another shrug of the shoulders...

Shawn Michaels: I'm just gonna take it anyway. For it has been written... and it shall be done. Now hit my music.

*SEXY BOY...*

The microphone falls from Michaels' hand and crashes to the canvas, signalling a rather emphatic end to Michaels' words. With that blank stare and those cold eyes, Michaels lets his gaze linger into the camera for a few seconds, before he finally turns his head back down to the canvas and then moves to make his exit...


Jim Ross: Well... that was uh, pretty disturbing from Shawn Michaels. Emphatic, yes. Straight to the point, yes. But it was the manner in which Michaels said those words, the coldness, the lack of human emotion, that's gotta have the WWE Champion concerned. Rob Van Dam has been put on notice, Shawn Michaels is comin' after 'im.

Joey Styles: Rob Van Dam has always had an air of coolness about him. Very little seems to faze the WWE Champion. But even a guy like me who's known Van Dam for years... I gotta agree with you, Jim. I can't imagine hearin' somethin' like that and not havin' it effect me.

Jerry Lawler: I guess we'll find out first hand later tonight. 'RVD' is still scheduled to defend the WWE Title tonight against Claudio Cesaro. Not only has he gotta deal with the unknown Cesaro, now he's got the threat of 'The Heartbreak Kid' hangin' over 'im.

Jim Ross: And if Van Dam makes it past Cesaro tonight, he now knows what could be instore. It could be the deranged, the almost psychotic Shawn Michaels. And after what we saw Michaels do last night at Backlash... I don't like Van Dam's chances of makin' it outta a match with Michaels in one piece.

And with Michaels now at the top of the ramp, he takes one last look out at the fans, no hint of emotion in his eyes, before he finally heads backstage and we fade into a commercial.

*Commercial*

And we're back with Todd Grisham standing by...


Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Monday Night Raw. And please welcome my guests at this time, they are the World Tag Team Champions... Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin, The World's Greatest Tag Team.

A decent level of heat from inside the arena as The World's Greatest Tag Team step into the frame, with Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin standing either side of Grisham, both men with their titles slung across their shoulders and smug grins on their faces...

Todd Grisham: Charlie, Shelton, last night you defended your titles against The Straight Edge Saints, albeit in a match with it's share of controversy. As champions, you've always said that you want to prove without doubt that you're the best tag team in the world... do you think last night you did that?

Benjamin shakes his head and smirks, while behind Grisham’s back, Haas rolls his eyes and rubs his jaw in annoyance…

Shelton Benjamin: We won, didn't we? I mean, the whole reason Punk and Dinsmore even got that match was 'cause they beat all the other teams on Raw. So if we can beat the best o' the rest... then I guess that proves our point.

And now Haas takes over as he places a hand on Grisham’s shoulder to attract his attention…

Charlie Haas: And what d’ya mean controversy? There was nothin’ controversial about our win last night. We did whatever it took to win, whatever it took to hang onto these titles. Y’see, that’s what bein’ the best in the world is all about. You do what ya’ gotta do to make yourself a champion… and then ya’ do what ya’ gotta do to keep it that way.

Benjamin nods in agreement…

Shelton Benjamin: And to the rest of the… pretenders out there… any time you wanna step up and take a shot at us… we’ll be ready. As for who’s next in line, to us… it really don’t matter. We’ll let you guys figure it out for yo’self, and when you decide who’s gonna be the next team to try and fail at takin’ these titles… you come find us.

Both men pause as they let some boos from inside the arena ring out, before Haas carries on…

Charlie Haas: But right now, we wanna send out a little message. After beatin’ Punk and Dinsmore, and with no other challengers in sight, we’re gonna take a quick step back from tag team action… to focus on the King of the Ring.

Haas readjusts the titles on his shoulder, showing that despite focusing on the King of the Ring, the gold still means plenty to the champs…

Shelton Benjamin: Y’see both Charlie and me are entered in this year’s tournament. And we intend on provin’ that not only are we great tag team specialists… but we’re great singles competitors too. And we’re gonna do it by makin’ sure we both make it to Saturday Night’s Main Event… and then one of us is goin’ home with that crown.

There’s no hint of dissension or confusion from the champs as Haas nods in agreement, clearly confident that one of them will be winning the tournament…

Charlie Haas: Next week Shelton’s got Super Crazy. Then the week after that, I got Tyson Kidd. That’s two matches where we’re gonna prove just how big a threat we are to winnin’ the whole tournament. And then when one of us is crowned King, and we’ve proved we’re the world’s greatest singles wrestlers…

With a smirk, Benjamin wraps things up…

Shelton Benjamin: Then it’s right back to work provin’ we’re The World’s Greatest Tag Team. We just hope that whoever’s up next… has more to offer than Punk and Dinsmore.

And with more heat from inside the arena, the champs take a lasting look at Grisham and then head off in opposite directions, leaving the interviewer to watch them go, but we don’t stay focused on Grisham for long as we cut elsewhere.

To a locker room where we see the new Woman’s Champion Beth Phoenix stood before the camera, her title glistening around her waist, with Beth looking down on it lovingly, stroking and caressing it, a broad smile on her face. Standing nearby is Victoria, the two still clearly a partnership, but the scowl on Victoria’s face shows she’s clearly not happy about how the match ended last night…


Beth Phoenix: Well, well… look at this. I did it. Just like I said I would. I came back to Monday Night Raw, I went after Mickie James… and I took her precious title away from ‘er. And I did it all – by – myself.

Clearly not agreeing with that, Victoria raises her eyebrows and screws up her face…

Victoria: What are you-

Beth Phoenix: Not now Victoria, this is important. All the years of disappointment I suffered, all the pain I went through, all the hard work, all the sacrifices, all the effort it took to get myself back to the WWE… it was all finally worth it last night at Backlash when I finally became WWE Woman’s Champion. And y’know what the best part was?

Looking off camera, the champion rubs her hand and smirks with delight…

Beth Phoenix: I finally got revenge on Mickie James. She tried to rob me of my career, she injured me on purpose, she tried to keep me from ever makin’ it to the WWE, and now here we are… I’m the champion, while Mickie?

Beth laughs to herself then carries on…

Beth Phoenix: Mickie’s at home, cryin’ her little eyes out. She was too scared to even show up here tonight. Infact, I don’t even think we’ll ever see her again here on Raw. Not now she’s lost this title to me, ‘cause she knows she’s never gonna get it back. I took this title away from her last night, and now it looks like Mickie’s finally faced up to the fact that I have always been better than her.

Heat from inside the arena, but Beth doesn’t let that phase her as she turns to her partner…

Beth Phoenix: And I don’t know about you Victoria, but… I’m getting’ kinda bored of Mickie’s face to be honest. I think it’s time we gave somebody else a shot to challenge for this title. So next week, I’m issuing an open challenge to any diva… NOT named Mickie James… to face me in the ring for my Woman’s Title. I mean, as champion… it’s my duty. Right, Victoria?

With her arms folded across her chest, Victoria looks like through Beth with a look of annoyance on her face, but she goes along with what the champ is saying for now…

Victoria: Yeah, sure.

And oblivious to the tone of Victoria’s answer, the champion turns back towards the camera and again strokes the belt around her waist with affection…

Beth Phoenix: We’re entering a new age for women’s wrestling here on Raw. The days of Mickie James hogging the limelight are over. It’s the age of ‘The Glamazon’. An age where we can finally forget about Mickie James, and focus on the strength and the beauty of women’s competition.

More heat, at which Beth just smiles at, until something pops into her head that she remembers to say…

Beth Phoenix: Oh, and Mickie? If you’re watching this… I suggest you stay away. You might have been able to walk out of the arena last night and board the first flight home. But you ever show your face on Monday Night Raw again… getting home won’t be that easy. Let’s go, Victoria.

Phoenix makes a quick exit, fully expecting Victoria to be right behind her, but instead Victoria watches her friend leave, clearly annoyed about the fact that Beth pinned her last night, although she holds her peace for now, eventually following Phoenix off camera with a shake of the head, while we head back into the arena.

To hear…

*LOADED…*

Despite his defeat last night, it’s a warm welcome for Jeff Hardy as he gyrates his way down the ramp to the ring, slapping hands with as many fans as he can…


Jim Ross: It was certainly a gutsy effort from that man, Jeff Hardy, last night at Backlash as he tried to wrestle the Money in the Bank briefcase away from Randy Orton. Hardy may have came up short at Backlash, but I’m sure he’ll put that behind ‘im in a hurry and focus on becomin’ the next King of the Ring.

Joey Styles: And this tournament could be just what Jeff needs to get ‘im back on track. We’ve heard from a lotta the contenders tonight, but Jeff tends to be a little bit more reserved, and it’s that attitude that could see him go far.

Jerry Lawler: Yeah but he’s in for a real tough ride right here against Hardcore Holly. I mean, comin’ off a tough loss to Randy Orton the night before, the last guy you wanna see standin’ across the ring from ya’ is Holly. This is gonna be a real test for Jeff right here.

*HOW DO YOU LIKE ME NOW?...*

Not much of a response, but still a decent level of boos as the grizzled veteran Hardcore Holly strides for the ring, a nasty snarl on his face as he has his eyes firmly focused on his opponent tonight…


Jim Ross: He’s tougher than a two dollar steak, and he’s more than capable of goin’ far in this King of the Ring tournament. He’s a brawler that brings a bowling shoe ugly offence to the ring, a real contrast to the fast paced, high flyin’ style of Jeff, and that could give Holly a real advantage right here.

Jerry Lawler: He’s got all the experience, he’s got all the toughness needed to advance and make it to Saturday Night’s Main Event. He might not have been on Raw all that much lately, but he’s gonna be comin’ into this match a lot fresher than Jeff is given Jeff’s efforts last night.

Joey Styles: Well Hardcore Holly made his King of the Ring debut all the way back in 1994. He’s had a few good runs, he’s gotten close on a couple of occasions, but he’s never gone all the way and became King. A win tonight over Jeff Hardy, and 2007 could finally be Holly’s year…

Match 4: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
Hardcore Holly
vs. Jeff Hardy

As the bell rings, both men circle the ring for a few seconds, Hardy clapping his hands as a method of getting the crowd into things, before finally the two come together for a collar and elbow tie up. The pair jockey for position, until the leg strength of Holly allows him to back Hardy to the corner. The ref steps in and calls for the break, which Holly provides... only to then hammer Hardy with a stiff elbow to the face! Another two elbows land, then a boot lands to the gut, allowing Holly to drop a pair of forearms to the back of the neck. Holly shoves Hardy to the ropes, then goes for the Irish whip... but Jeff reverses and drops down to avoid the rebounding Holly... and then catches him on the second pass with a hiptoss! Holly springs back up... into another hiptoss! As Jeff stands over Hardcore, Holly tries to kick Jeff away, but Hardy grabs the feet, spins Holly around on the canvas... and then nails the double legdrop! Here's the first cover... 1... 2... Holly kicks out easily. From the kickout, Holly crawls to the corner, where Jeff lays in with a few stomps to the chest, then he grabs the top rope and launches himself… Hardyac Arrest! Hardy is in full control, and now he waits for Holly to drag himself up in the corner… Hardy races in… but Holly elevates him over the top rope… but Jeff lands on the apron! Hardy swings a right hand… but Holly ducks underneath… then drops down… which causes the back of Hardy’s neck to snap off the top rope! Jeff tumbles all the way to the floor, a painful landing to add to the damage just done to his neck.

Holly quickly heads outside and looks to take advantage, smacking a pair of knife edge chops to the chest, before he grabs Hardy by the hair… and smacks him face first off the steel steps! Holly rolls Jeff back into the ring for a near fall, and now he looks to apply pressure to the neck, dropping his knee across it, then he yanks Hardy up and drops him with a scoop slam for another near fall. A vertical suplex is followed by a standing camel clutch, Holly applying more pressure to the neck in an attempt to make Hardy pass out. Hardy hangs in there, trying to pry Holly’s grip free, but Holly’s grip remains tight. Hardy manages to work back to his knees, then forces himself back to his feet, but Holly continues to hang on, until Hardy repeatedly drives his elbow into the midsection… but Holly stops the momentum by smacking a forearm to the back of the head… then hammers Hardy with a FULL NELSON SLAM! Holly goes for the cover… 1… 2… Hardy rolls the shoulder! Frustrated, once again Holly turns to a mat based submission move to wear Hardy down, this time going for a grounded headlock. Holly wrenches the hold on tight, but the crowd start to make some noise, and Hardy feeds off of it, rising back to his feet… and he breaks the hold with a side suplex! Despite the impact of the move, Holly is on his feet first, but when he approaches Jeff, Hardy catches him with a sitout jawbreaker! Now Hardy goes on the attack, landing right after right that backs Holly to the corner, before he winds up for the Irish whip across… Holly reverses… but Hardy runs up the turnbuckle… and flies with whisper in the wind! Here’s a cover… 1… 2… Holly kicks out! Hardy is on the attack now, snapping off kicks to the gut and rights to the face, Hardy looks for the Irish whip to the corner, but Holly reverses again and follows in… but Hardy uses the ropes to elevate himself over Holly… no! Holly catches him on his shoulders… and looks for the ALABAMA SLAM… NO! Hardy counters with a sunset flip… but Holly rolls straight through! Both men are on their feet and charge at each other… Hardy ducks a clothesline… kick… TWIST OF FATE! Holly is planted, but Jeff is already heading for the top rope… SWANTON BOMB!! Hardy gets all of it, crawls over and hooks the leg… 1… 2… 3!

Winner: Jeff Hardy @ 04.52

A nice rebound win for Hardy as he puts last night’s disappointment behind him and advances to the final sixteen. Back on his feet, Hardy has his hand raised by the referee and celebrates for the fans, who respond with a nice pop, and as the commentators talk up Hardy’s chances of going all the way, we head for a commercial.

*Commercial*

*Video Package*

Our video opens at the King of the Ring ’96, where ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin stands victorious, delivering the interview that launched his main event career…

Narrator: It’s a night where future legends make their mark...

“AUSTIN 3:16 SAYS I JUST WHIPPED YOUR ASS!”

We now head back to King of the Ring ’93, where Bret Hart puts Bam Bam Bigelow away with the winning victory roll...

Narrator: A night where icons are created…

“I’M THE BEST THERE IS, THE BEST THERE WAS, AND THE BEST THERE EVER WILL BE!”

King of the Ring ’01, where Edge puts Kurt Angle down with the Edgecution then crawls into the pin to get an emotional victory…

Narrator: A night when the stars of tomorrow shine bright...

“WELCOME TO THE ERA OF AWESOMENESS!”

And we now go to last year’s tournament final, where Booker T grabs the win over Bobby Lashley…

Narrator: A night to crown… a new king.

“BOW DOWN BEFORE YOUR KING!”

We now see flashing images of some of this year’s contenders, starting with Jeff Hardy, Montel Vontavious Porter, CM Punk and Matt Hardy…

Narrator: And this year, live on NBC, the WWE King of the Ring returns! It’s the one night Saturday Night’s Main Event spectacular where one man’s career is set to skyrocket!

More flashing images, this time it’s Bryan Danielson, Kenny Dykstra, Johnny Nitro and Mr. Kennedy…

Narrator: Eight men will battle to join the most exclusive of WWE clubs. Who will take King Booker’s crown and become the 2007 King of the Ring!?

Another round of flashing images, this time of former winners such as Steve Austin, Owen Hart, Edge, Bret Hart and King Booker…

Narrator: The King is dead…

More clips from last year, this time from Booker’s coronation ceremony, then a quick shot of him close to tears after his victory to clinch the World Heavyweight Championship…

“ALL HAIL KING BOO-KAH!”

”Long live… the King.”



"SATURDAY NIGHT’S MAIN EVENT – THREE HOUR KING OF THE RING SPECIAL – JUNE 2ND - LIVE ON NBC!"

*End Video Package*

And from the video, it’s back to the smiling face of our announce team…

Joey Styles: That’s right folks, we are just over one month away from Saturday Night’s Main Event, the King of the Ring special. June 2nd, the TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, and the contenders are startin’ to fall into place.

Jim Ross: The first three men into the round of sixteen qualified tonight, so let’s take a look at the bracket as it stands now…

Harry Smith vs. Kenny Dykstra
Lance Cade vs. Nick Dinsmore

Chris Masters vs. Jerry Lawler
CM Punk vs. Trevor Murdoch

Carlito vs. Mike Knox
Shelton Benjamin vs. Super Crazy

Hardcore Holly vs. Jeff Hardy
Charlie Haas vs. Tyson Kidd

Jim Ross: And there ya’ have it folks, Jeff Hardy, CM Punk and Carlito have all advanced, we’ll find out there opponents over the next few weeks.

Jerry Lawler: Oh boy J.R., I can’t wait to see how this tournament unfolds. It got off to a great start tonight, and I’m sure this Friday night when the SmackDown half of the draw kicks off, it’s gonna be more of the same.

And after a few seconds silence…

*MIRACLE…*

And now it’s time for the perhaps the biggest debut in Raw history as the newcomer Claudio Cesaro steps out from the back. Wearing a red sports jacket with the word ‘Swiss’ across the chest, Cesaro oozes confidence as he stops at the top of the stage, raise a fist in the air and then heads down to the ring…


Jerry Lawler: Oh here we go guys. I’ve been waitin’ for this all night! Claudio Cesaro has arrived here on Monday Night Raw, and he’s walkin’ straight into a WWE Title Match with Rob Van Dam!

Jim Ross: From the videos we’ve seen over the last few weeks, we’ve certainly gathered that Cesaro is a well-educated man, both in and out of the ring, a man of refined taste, and a man who’s extremely confident in his abilities. And tonight he could back all that up in the biggest way possible by becomin’ WWE Champion.

Joey Styles: I’ve heard about this man, I know he’s been successful all over the world, but this is a first for me right here. I’ve never seen this man wrestle in the flesh, and I doubt Rob Van Dam ever has either. This is gonna be a huge challenge for the WWE Champion, Cesaro claimed in his videos that he’d scouted the Raw roster, that he knew everybody’s strengths and weaknesses, and that could give him a huge advantage in his Raw debut.

*ONE OF A KIND…*

And a huge cheer breaks out as the WWE Champion Rob Van Dam strides out onto the stage. With a stern look on his face, ‘RVD’ pauses on the ramp, takes a long, hard look down at Cesaro in the ring, before he leads the crowd in a chant of “ROB – VAN – DAM!” and then heads down the ramp…


Joey Styles: Last night, Rob Van Dam overcame the challenge of not only John Cena, but also the interference of Mr. McMahon and his hired muscle, Bobby Lashley. But tonight, it’s a challenge of a very different kind, as he takes on a newcomer, a man he’s not scouted, a man who’s offence he knows very little about. Cesaro has come to Raw with an agenda, he’s sought out the WWE Champion, is Van Dam up to the challenge?

Jim Ross: We all know ‘RVD’ is always extremely confident, he’s never doubted his abilities, but we’ve seen in the past few weeks, Mr. McMahon questioned if the pressure of bein’ champion was starting to get to him. Van Dam proved McMahon wrong last night, but there’s gotta be some doubts in the back of the champion’s mind, given how little we know about the newcomer.

Jerry Lawler: I heard lot from Cesaro earlier, I heard all his credentials, I know he’s arrogant and cocky, but this is the WWE. This is a whole ‘nother level, and right now Rob Van Dam is the best we’ve got to offer. Maybe it’s a case of the new guy needin’ to learn his place in the new company, and ‘RVD’ is the perfect guy to do it, especially given how high the stakes are right now.

Match 5: WWE Championship Match
WWE Champion Rob Van Dam vs. Claudio Cesaro

The bell rings with both men in opposite corners, a very cagey first few seconds as the two size each other up, before they eventually come together and tie up… but Cesaro catches the champion off guards initially, working the initial tie up into a hammerlock. Van Dam twists and reverses into a hammerlock of his own, only for Cesaro to then spin through this and take Van Dam down with a northern lights suplex, hanging onto the wrist which allows him to bridge into an armbar. ‘RVD’ works his way back up, then rolls through, twisting into another hammerlock, but with it locked on tight this time, there’s no escape for Cesaro… so he simply drags Van Dam towards the ropes and grabs hold, forcing the break. As ‘RVD’ backs away, Cesaro arrogantly taps the side of his head, expressing that he has a far greater wrestling mind than the WWE Champion, something which ‘RVD’ calmly shakes off. Again the two tie up, and again Cesaro has the advantage with a standing side headlock, only for Van Dam to shove him into the ropes… Cesaro runs him over with a shoulderblock! Again Cesaro catches the WWE Champion off guard, and he snatches ‘RVD’ into another standing side headlock, but again Van Dam wastes no time in shoving Cesaro to the ropes… and avoids him with a leapfrog… before smacking a spinning heel kick right off Cesaro’s jaw! Cesaro crawls to the ropes, but Van Dam quickly sends him for the ride… into a hiptoss… no, Cesarp blocks it and goes for a hiptoss of his own… but ‘RVD’ lands on his feet… Cesaro goes for a kick to the gut… but Van Dam catches it… and nails the step-over spinning wheel kick! Here’s the first cover… 1… 2… Cesaro kicks out easily.

From the kickout Cesaro scrambles to the corner, but Van Dam is right back on him, drilling a pair of shoulder thrusts before he backflips out, then races back in… and sends Cesaro flying with a monkey flip! Van Dam now goes on the attack, striking with multiple kicks to the body, then he winds up for the Irish whip… but Cesaro reverses… and then lowers his head… but ‘RVD’ snaps him up with a kick… then lands a jumping roundhouse that sends Cesaro sprawling under the bottom rope! The crowd break out with a strong pop as ‘RVD’ seems to have rallied from the early disadvantage, and as Cesaro gets back to his feet, Van Dam doesn’t want to wait… as he flies to the floor with a plancha! ‘RVD’ crashes down on Cesaro, but he’s right back up to lead the crowd in a chant of ‘ROB – VAN – DAM!” before he snatches Cesaro up and smacks him face first off the barricade. With a shove, Cesaro is left prone across the barricade, allowing Van Dam to nip up onto the apron… then launch himself for the guillotine legdrop! Both men hit the floor with a thud, but the WWE Champion doesn’t let the newcomer rest, rolling him back into the ring for another near fall. With Cesaro still down near the ropes, Van Dam drops a snap legdrop, then races to the opposite ropes… and then goes for ROLLING THUNDER! Cesaro groans in pain, but Van Dam isn’t wasting any time as he heads to the corner, slings himself to the top rope… but when Cesaro rises, Van Dam changes tactic and goes for a flying crossbody… but Cesaro counters… with a powerslam!

A great counter from Cesaro, and he stays down for the pinfall… 1… 2… Van Dam kicks out. From the kickout, Cesaro now looks to mount some offence, landing a stiff kick to the ribs before driving a double footstomp into the midsection. Cesaro now looks to focus his attack on Van Dam’s core, aiming more stomps to the gut and chest, before he yanks ‘RVD’ up by the hair and drills a pair of knees. Cesaro then takes ‘RVD’ up with a fireman’s carry… then drops Van Dam gut first across the top turnbuckle… backs up and races in to deliver a stiff kick to the body! It’s Van Dam who now groans in pain, and it gets worse as Cesaro aggressively pulls Van Dam away from the corner to the canvas for a near fall. Looking to wear Van Dam down, Cesaro goes for a grounded waistlock, wrapping his legs around the midsection, trying to squeeze the life out of the champion. Van Dam tries to break free, but slowly he begins to fade, until the roar of the crowd spurs him on, and he tries to mount a comeback, trying to break the grip, but Cesaro’s impressive strength keeps the hold locked on. Van Dam then starts to throw elbows to the face, causing Cesaro to break the grip, allowing ‘RVD’ to stumble back to his feet against the ropes. Cesaro moves in, but Van Dam snaps off a right hand, and another one, only for Cesaro to drill another knee to the gut. Cesaro then goes for the Irish whip off the ropes... but Van Dam ducks underneath his clothesline attempt… and goes for a bridging German suplex! 1… 2… Cesaro kicks out, but ‘RVD’ tries to quicken the pace, heading for the ropes… jumping to the second rope for a springboard moonsault… but Cesaro gets his knees up… and Van Dam crashes down on them! ‘RVD’ kicks and grimaces, burying his face into the mat in pain, and as we head into a commercial, it seems like Cesaro has once again gotten the better of the WWE Champion.

*Commercial*

When we return, Van Dam is down in the corner, Cesaro hammering him with stiff boots to the chest, the referee finally stepping in to back Cesaro away. Cesaro moves back in… only for Van Dam to land a kick to the midsection, then a pair of right hands… but out of desperation, Cesaro drills a knee to the midsection, doubling ‘RVD’ over… allowing Cesaro to hit a gutwrench suplex! Cesaro floats over into the cover… 1… 2… Van Dam kicks out again. Looking to press home his advantage, Cesaro lands methodical boots and elbows to the chest, before he yanks ‘RVD’ by the hair into the corner, again laying in with stomps that causes Van Dam to drop to a seated position. Cesaro helps Van Dam back up, then fires him across the ring… no, ‘RVD’ reverses and follows in… right into a boot to the face! ‘RVD’ stumbles backwards… and then Cesaro levels him with a clothesline! Once again, ‘RVD’ is grounded by Cesaro, who slows the pace right down as he drops more elbows to the chest, then lands a well-placed legdrop, gaining another two count. Cesaro continues to attack the midsection, nailing a gutbuster and an impressive, long delayed vertical suplex, both netting two counts. Cesaro then locks on an abdominal stretch near the ropes, every now and then reaching out to grab the top rope for extra leverage. Once again, the crowd try to will Van Dam from the submission situation, and despite Cesaro dropping elbows and fists into the ribs, it seems to working as Van Dam tries to power free… and he finally does so with a hiptoss!

Both men stuggle back to their feet, with Cesaro beating Van Dam to the punch… but ‘RVD’ blocks it… and rattles Cesaro with a right of his own! Another pair of rights land, allowing Van Dam to go for an Irish whip… and then he sends Cesaro up with a flapjack… and catches him with a dropkick on the way down! Van Dam looks to build some momentum, seeing Cesaro on the rise… atomic drop… and then a bridging northern lights suplex! 1… 2… Cesaro kicks out! ‘RVD’ is in control now, smacking more kicks to the chest, before a big roundhouse knocks him into the corner. Van Dam moves in, for a pair of shoulder thrusts, then he backflips away and once again charges in… but this time Cesaro is ready for it and charges out for a clothesline… but Van Dam ducks underneath that and keeps on running… jumping to the second rope… then he nails a springboard superkick! Cesaro is down, and now Van Dam heads to the corner, slinging himself to the top rope… only for Cesaro to dives for the ropes, shaking them… causing ‘RVD’ to fall and crotch himself on the top turnbuckle! A painful landing for the WWE Champion, and it could get worse as Cesaro climbs up alongside him… and hooks Van Dam up for a SUPERPLEX… NO! Van Dam swings rights to the midsection, desperately trying to fight it off… and then he shoves Cesaro down! Cesaro lands on his feet though… only for Van Dam to fly with a DIVING TORNADO DDT! ‘RVD’ crawls over and hooks a leg… 1… 2… Cesaro rolls a shoulder!

Seeking a way to finally put Cesaro away, Van Dam drags the challenger back up, again drilling kicks to the chest of Cesaro against the corner. Van Dam shoves Cesaro against the ropes, then looks for the Irish whip… but Cesaro reverses… and looks for a bicycle kick… but ‘RVD’ avoids it with a baseball slide… then jumps up… and goes for a VICTORY ROLL… 1… 2… Cesaro shifts the momentum into a roll up… 1… 2… Cesaro has a handful of tights… Van Dam barely kicks out! Cesaro can’t believe it, he was sure he had the title won, but after being told it was only two, he pounces and keeps Van Dam grounded with a painful knee to the gut, followed by a string of forearms to the back of the head. Cesaro now quickly heads for the corner, climbing to the second rope, calling for Van Dam to rise as he holds a forearm high in the air… and as the WWE Champion stumbles up, Cesaro flies… DIVING EUROPEAN UPPERCUT… NO! Van Dam counters in mid-air… with a sitout facebuster! Cesaro is planted face first into the canvas, and now he’s down in the perfect position as Van Dam heads for the corner… slings himself to the top rope and readies himself to fly… FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH… NO! Wait, before ‘RVD’ goes for it, a chorus of boos breaks out with all eyes heading towards the stage… as Shawn Michaels has emerged from the back! Michaels may have come out onto the stage, but he’s just standing there, his blank stare looking down on the ring. Clearly distracted, Van Dam drops down to the apron and then to the floor, shouting “What the hell are you doin’?” up at Michaels… but he gets nothing in response, just that blank stare. Van Dam stands ready at the foot of the stage, anticipating an attack… but there’s nothing from ‘HBK’, just that cold stare… and that means Van Dam doesn’t see Cesaro coming from behind… where he clobbers Van Dam, knocking him down to the steel of the stage! Cesaro doesn’t pay attention to Michaels, instead he drags Van Dam up… hooks him up… and takes him up and down with a cradle belly to back inverted mat slam, a move Joey Styles tell us is called THE NEUTRALIZER… ON THE STEEL RAMP!! A devastating move, one that leaves Van Dam motionless, the referee enraged, screaming for Cesaro to get back in the ring. The ref threatens Cesaro with a disqualification, but Cesaro doesn’t care as he tries desperately to drag Van Dam back up… but ‘RVD’ is lifeless, a deadweight that Cesaro can’t shift… and after one final ultimatum from the ref, Cesaro backs away and heads back into the ring. The ref starts to count, making it to five… at which point Van Dam makes it back to his knees, desperately crawling towards the ring… 6… 7… 8… ‘RVD’ reaches the bottom of the ramp… 9… but he just can’t quite get there… 10!

Winner: Via Countout, Claudio Cesaro @ 13.38

The crowd boo loudly for the controversial finish, while in the ring, Cesaro has his hand raised in victory but quickly snatches it away, angered by the fact that he’s only won via a countout. On the floor, Van Dam is still down in pain, barely moving, while on the stage, Michaels stands and watches, his eyes firmly fixed on ‘RVD’. The camera cuts back to Cesaro, hands on his hips, a win on his debut, but it’s not a win that’s made him champion, a fact that clearly annoys him greatly. We again cut back to Van Dam, now being tended to by trainers and medical personnel, before we take one last look at ‘HBK’, the boos heard loudly in the background, Michaels’ eyes coldly staring down at the fallen WWE Champion as we head for a commercial.

*Commercial*​

And we’re back, straight into the arena to hear…

*NO CHANCE IN HELL…*

It’s time for the big announcement, as here comes Mr. McMahon, leading out his entourage, which of course consists of his Personal Assistant, Brooke Adams, his son Shane McMahon, and the always intimidating Bobby Lashley bringing up the rear. Vince of course leads the way, that broad swagger of his on full display, with Shane nearby, he and his father both looking extremely confident ahead of tonight’s announcement. As they hit the ring, it’s smiles all round from Vince, Shane and Brooke, obviously expecting good news tonight from the emergency board meeting…


Jim Ross: Welcome back to Raw everybody. I guess it’s that time, time to find out just who will be in control of Monday Night Raw for the foreseeable future. For the last few months, Mr. McMahon has ruled Raw with an iron fist, especially where John Cena and Rob Van Dam have been concerned. But Linda McMahon has challenged that over the last month or so, and now, we’re gonna find out just what have the Board of Directors decided to do about it?

Jerry Lawler: You gotta admit guys, Mr. McMahon, he looks pretty happy with 'imself right now. I know he's got his supporters on the Board of Directors, maybe he knows something. Maybe he knows the decisions already been made and he's out here to announce that they voted in his favour.

Joey Styles: Yeah but we've seen that smug, confident look on Mr. McMahon's face before, only for something or somebody to come out here and wipe clean off. Maybe this time it's different, maybe Mr. McMahon has been chosen to run Monday Night Raw from here on out... but I'm just not that sure. I damn sure hope it's Linda McMahon who got the vote in her favour, otherwise... it's gonna be hell around here with Vince runnin' wild!

Shane heads for the corner and receives a microphone, turning and handing it over to his father. As the music comes to an end, Vince waits for the boos to die down, the smirk on his face barely flickering as the crowd make their opinion known, until finally there's a bit of quiet and McMahon starts to speak...

Mr. McMahon: So... Backlash. How 'bout that pay per view last night, huh?

McMahon opens his arms out looking for a response from the crowd, although he gets very little...

Mr. McMahon: I mean, what a show that was. It had everything. Action, drama, violence, blood, sweat, tears, it had it all! It was everything a WWE pay per view should be and more! It was shows like Backlash and WrestleMania that prove once and for all that when it comes to pay per view, nobody, and I mean nobody does it better than the WWE.

A bit of a pop for that, although many of the fans aren't buying what Vince is saying so far...

Mr. McMahon: And Backlash was yet another example of why the WWE is, and forever will be, the leader in pay per view broadcasts in all of professional sports. Ever since I launched the WWE onto pay per view with the very first WrestleMania, nobody has been able to touch this company.

In the background, Shane nods in agreement with his father, while Lashley simply snarls and scowls at the crowd...

Mr. McMahon: And why is that, huh? Why d’ya think that for over 20 years, this company has been the market leader in sports pay per view? You wanna know why? I’ll tell ya’ why. This reason this company has been so successful, the reason this company has made hundreds of millions of dollars over the years… is all because… of ME!

And now the boos break out, the fans realising this is nothing more than McMahon giving himself a pat on the back...

Mr. McMahon: It’s not because of the superstars that step into this ring, it’s not because of you fans, and it’s certainly not because of my wife Linda. I made the WWE, I moulded this company in my image, I created the WWE you see today in my vision, and I made it one of the biggest companies in the world! And hell, I made myself a lotta money in the process.

More heat, but Vince simply shrugs his shoulders...

Mr. McMahon: And what about this show? What about the flagship show of the WWE, Monday Night Raw? For 13 years now, Raw has been pullin’ in the highest ratings ever for whatever station it’s been on. And why is that? It’s all because of me!

Pointing a finger firmly into his chest, Vince smirks, knowing the fans can't prove him wrong...

Mr. McMahon: My creativity, my talent, my resourcefulness, my perseverance, that’s what’s made this company and this show what they are today. Linda? Huh. She was too busy livin’ off my success, too busy spendin’ my money, to contribute anythin’ meaningful. And yet somehow, she is the latest in a long line of people lookin’ to take control of my baby. Plenty o’ people have tried and failed to take all this away from me. I’m sure you all remember my most fiercest rival, Eric Bischoff.

Mixed response for Bischoff...

Mr. McMahon: Yeah, ol’ ‘Easy E’, he tried to run me outta business. That worked out well for him, didn’t it? Same could be said about Paul Heyman.

A much more positive response for the mention of Heyman , with a small “ECW!” chant breaking out...

Mr. McMahon: He and that group of thugs he called ECW, they had their hearts set on takin’ my spot. Then one day, I just bought ‘em outta business. Who else? Well… let’s see, my own daughter, Stephanie, she tried it once. She tried to take control, she tried to have me removed from power… so I took matters into my own hands and I dealt out a little fatherly advice, and she soon got back in her place. And what about Ric Flair?

A resounding “Woooo!” from the fans, at which Vince rolls his eyes and shakes his head...

Mr. McMahon: Yeah, woo! He arrived here in the WWE as the part owner of my company, and he tried to gain full control away from me. But I soon saw him off, hell, I even stepped in the ring with ‘im, and I beat ‘im at ‘is own game! It doesn’t matter who it is, or who they do it, anybody who’s tried to take control of Monday Night Raw away from me has found out the hard way that it’s just not gonna happen.

Vince heads to the side of the ring where he now points up the ramp at the entrance way...

Mr. McMahon: And I’m not sure if the WWE Board of Directors back there have made their decision or not… but if there was ever any prove needed of my credentials, then last night at Backlash… they got it.

Turning back towards the hard camera, Vince gives us a ridiculously fake look of sincerity...

Mr. McMahon: My own family, my son in law, Triple H, he had to be removed from the arena on a stretcher, but did I let family get in the way of business? Did I let my personal feelings of sadness and regret get in the way of doin’ the right thing for the fans of this company? Absolutely not! There was a show to finish, and I had to be there to see it through to the end. But Linda? She jumped in my limo, she and Stephanie raced to the hospital, and they let their personal lives effect business. And that’s why the Board of Directors should see sense, make the right decision, and let’s put an end to all this crazy talk about Linda runnin’ Raw.

More heat...

Mr. McMahon: I’m a very busy man, and quite frankly, all this business over the last few months, it’s been nothin’ but a distraction. I mean, to be honest, I don’t know how I managed to keep things runnin’ so smoothly with all this goin’ on around me. I just don’t know how I do it, sometimes I impress even me.

Vince turns and shares a hearty smile with Shane, with son giving father a warm pat on the back...

Mr. McMahon: So that’s why I’m callin’ on the Board of Directors to send a representative out here to the ring right now, and let’s hear the decision. Let’s hear that at Backlash last night, my commitment to the show, my commitment to the WWE, proved without a shadow of a doubt that there is nobody better equipped to lead this show forward. So c’mon, let’s get somebody out here, and let’s put all this to bed, and let me get on with running my creation.



Mr. McMahon: Come on, let’s go. I’m a very busy man, and I-

*RETRO WRESTLEMANIA…*

A groan from Vince as he rolls his eyes and shakes his head as his wife Linda McMahon steps out from the back and quickly heads down the ramp. Although not much of a reaction, it’s a warm response for Linda, who is at least welcomed into the ring by her son Shane, who clearly had no bad feelings towards his mother. After a quick nod of courtesy between husband and wife, Linda heads for the corner and is handed a microphone, then returns to the centre of the ring to stand opposite Vince. As the music dies down, the annoyed ‘Chairman of the Board’ holds his hands out, not so much in confusion, more in exasperation that he’s not going to get the answer he wants right now…


Mr. McMahon: Linda? What… I didn’t invite you out here right now. I wanted somebody from the Board of Directors out here, I wanted answers right now. What are you doin’ out here?

Standing tall in the face of her husband's rage, Linda pauses, composing herself with a slight smile before she begins...

Linda McMahon: Well Vince, that’s exactly why I’m out here. To give you answers.

Confused, Vince screws up his face...

Linda McMahon: Y’see, the Board of Directors wrapped up their boardroom meeting about 15 minutes ago. If you weren’t so busy sitting in hair and makeup, you might have been there to hear what they had to say.

A few laughs from the crowd, which prompts Vince to gently stroke a hand across his well-placed hair…

Linda McMahon: I was there Vince to hear the decision, and I gotta tell ya’… it was very interesting… if not a little bit… disappointing.

Again confusion from Vince and the crowd...

Linda McMahon: Infact, it was… very disappointing for me.

And the confusion grows as Linda turns her head away in disapointment, but of course Vince is convinced he's figured things out...

Mr. McMahon: You mean… ha! Ha ha! Yes! I knew it! They voted for me, didn’t they?! They saw sense and voted in my favour! I knew it! I knew it all along! I knew walkin’ out on the show last night was gonna cost ya’! I just knew-

Linda McMahon: Settle down, Vince. I wasn’t finished.

Pop for the interruption that stops Vince dead in his tracks...

Linda McMahon: It might have been a disappointing decision for me… but believe me, it was also a very disappointing decision… for you.

And now the look of fear starts to cross the face of 'The Chairman of the Board'...

Linda McMahon: Because the decision that the Board of Directors finally came to was that… well, they just couldn’t make up their minds. Just like two weeks ago, they just couldn’t decide who should be in control of Monday Night Raw. We’re at a stalemate, Vince.

Loud jeers from the fans, a sentiment echoed by Vince as he angrily shakes his head...

Mr. McMahon: Goddammit! Those incompetent idiots!

Linda McMahon: Well, let’s just remember, the majority of those board members were put there on your behest, Vince. You put a board in place, and only half of them have any confidence left in you.

Vince throws up his hands in annoyance...

Mr. McMahon: So… what? What now? We just keep on sharing power, getting in each other’s way, making decisions together. I don’t think so, Linda. That’s now how I operate, that’s not how I do business. I tell ya’ what… name your price. Just how much is it gonna cost me to buy to you outta my business. What’s it gonna take to get you to stay away from Raw?

Reaching inside his jacket pocket, Vince goes for what we can only assume is his wallet, but Linda quickly motions for her husband to stop...

Linda McMahon: Vince, believe me, this has nothing to do with money. This is all about what’s best for business. And by that I mean what’s best for the WWE… and more importantly, what’s best for it’s fans.

Pop...

Linda McMahon: But you’re right, we can’t carry on like this. We can’t continue to work together like this. And that’s one thing that the Board of Directors could come to an agreement on. We need to settle this. And they agreed that only one of us can control Raw moving forward. And to settle it, they wanted to do it the old fashioned way… in the ring.

And now more confusion, with Vince breaking out into a laugh...

Mr. McMahon: What? Me and you in the ring?

More laughter, although in the background Shane looks rather concerned by the thought of his mother and father in the ring together...

Mr. McMahon: Or wait, lemme guess. I pick a representative, you pick a representative, we let ‘em go at it, and the winner gets control of Raw, right?

Linda flashes Vince a fake smile and then says...

Linda McMahon: Wrong. One member of the Board of Directors said, and I quote… the WWE is bein’ dragged through a civil war. And then at that point, it seemed like a unanimous decision. There was only gonna be one way to decide who would control Monday Night Raw…

Moving in close, Linda gets right in Vince's face and shouts...

Linda McMahon: WAR GAMES!!

A major cheer from the crowd, many of whom are in shock at the announcement. Vince is stunned, giving us one of those trademark gulps of his while he scratches his head and tries to take in the news his wife has just given him...

Linda McMahon: They decided that I should pick a team, you should pick a team… and to the winners go the spoils. If my team wins… I take control of Monday Night Raw. If your team wins… I’ll step aside and leave you to it. I’ll let you and your maniacal ego run this show and this company into the ground. But believe me, I’m not goin’ out without a fight. And when you need a man to lead a team into war… well, I can think of only one man for the job…

And as Linda turns towards the entrance way, Vince’s heart sinks… as…

*MY TIME IS NOW…*

The excitement of the moment takes over as a truly thunderous reaction breaks out as John Cena strides out onto the stage. Soaking in the loud Nashville crowd, Cena takes a long look around the arena, nodding his head in agreement, before he offers up a salute and then charges down towards the ring.

As usual, Cena slides under the bottom rope and then bursts back to his feet, fully aware and on-guard as Lashley steps forward, the two WrestleMania opponents coming face to face once more. The music quickly cuts as Cena and Lashley stand toe to toe, tension in the air, both men with snarls on their faces, fists clenched, the crowd in a frenzy, cheering them on, dying to see a brawl break out right here and now. Vince looks furious, embarrassed that he’s been caught off guard with the announcement, and now he’s got his nemesis stood mere yards away from him.

The tension continues to build as both Cena and Lashley stand their ground… until… Lashley throws a right hand… Cena fires back… the fight is on! The two muscle bound warriors trade fierce and furious left and rights, then tackle each other to the canvas! It’s an all-out brawl, the two man trading violent shots that find their mark, and it seems there’s no end in sight, they could battle all night… only for Shane to try and come to Lashley’s aid as he jumps in, stomping on Cena! Breaking free from Lashley, Cena nips back up as Shane continues to land shots to him… but now Cena fires back! Right after right lands to Shane, backing him to the ropes… and here comes Cena… clothesline over the top rope to the floor! Shane is dumped outside, causing Vince and Brooke to make a sharp exit from the ring, but here comes Lashley, clubbing Cena from behind. The crowd boos loudly as the numbers game gets the better of Cena, and now Lashley winds him up for an Irish whip… but as Cena rebounds off the ropes, he ducks a Lashley clothesline… and then takes Lashley down with a flying shoulderblock! Cena bowls Lashley over, causing Lashley to roll under the bottom rope to scamper around to the base of the ramp to join Vince, Shane and Brooke.

In the ring, Cena is like an animal unleashed, muscles straining, full of intensity, dying for another piece of Vince and Lashley… but ‘The Boss’ decides it’s best to fight another day as he orders his crew to back their way up the ramp. Lashley of course isn’t interested, as he lingers near the ring, nostrils flaring, baying for Cena’s blood, but it’s not going to be tonight as we hear Linda say…


Linda McMahon: VINCE! Allow me to introduce to you the captain of ‘Team Linda’… JOHN – CENA!!

Cena throws up his hands to the crowd, a loud reaction for him while on the ramp, Shane does his best to hold back the seething Lashley...

Linda McMahon: We are gonna settle this once and for all. And at War Games, if ya’ want some…

Linda holds the mic under Cena's face as he screams with intensity...

John Cena: COME GET SOME!!

*MY TIME IS NOW…*

And another loud response from the fans as Cena and Linda have firmly laid down the gauntlet to Vince. As ‘The Chairman of the Board’ backs away, both he and Lashley share the same look of disgust on their faces, both clearly furious with what’s just transpired. As they back away, in the ring Cena raises Linda’s arm high in the air, pointing at her, clearly showing he’s fully on board with representing her at War Games, the crowd showing they too are in Linda’s corner as they give her a tremendous pop…


Jim Ross: My Gawd, can you believe it? War Games is comin’ to the WWE! It’s Team Vince again Team Linda, and John Cena’s steppin’ up for Linda McMahon!

Jerry Lawler: And, well… who’s gonna join ‘im? I mean, who else is gonna be on Team Linda? Who’s Vince gonna choose for his team? What the heck’s gonna happen next!?

Joey Styles: I guess we’re gonna have to wait to find out, but one thing’s for certain, War Games is on it’s way, and the Civil War in the WWE is finally gonna be settled. Who’s gonna run Monday Night Raw? Who’s gonna gain control of the WWE’s flagship show?! I guess we’re about to find out!

Jim Ross: What a night it’s been, and we thank you for joinin’ us folks! We’ll see ya’ next week for more Monday Night Raw!

In the ring, Cena and Linda continue to celebrate, with Cena heading for the corner and climbing to the second rope, firing up the crowd, while on the stage, Vince and Lashley stare back down on the two, angry scowls on both their faces, the camera switching back and forth as we fade to black.

*End Show*




Current Card for WWE SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT - KING OF THE RING SPECIAL:
Date: June 2nd, 2007

Location: TD Banknorth Garden; Boston, Massachusetts


The 2007 King of the Ring Tournament:
COMPETITORS TO BE DETERMINED




Current Card for WWE WAR GAMES:
Date: June 17th, 2007

Location: Target Center; Minneapolis, Minnesota


War Games Match:
Team Linda (John Cena, ???, ???, ??? and ???) vs. Team Vince (???, ???, ???, ??? and ???)

 
#282 ·
Monday Night Raw Review

Opening Promo- Expected start for RVD especially after his victory at the PPV, but good idea to have him say it is out of the ordinary for him to give monologues. Pretty good of a face RVD to commend Cena for his efforts, shows respect between the two.
And then what the hell?? Cesaro debuts like this? Pretty cool but I can’t tell if this means you’re gonna put him straight into the main event scene. This is an awesome Cesaro challenge even though I didn’t really see it coming. I cant believe RVD accepted the challenge. I don’t know why but I am seeing a shock Cesaro victory here.

McMahon Promo- This is my first time reviewing this thread so I don’t really understand whats going on in the McMahon promo. But I assume theres a big vote between Vince and Linda for control of the company or something like that.

Melina/Masters/Nitro- Typical Melina yelling at her partners, that is very in character. The fight between Masters and Nitro was good to keep Melina’s steam rolling. Melina tries to be inspirational here but I don’t think that its gonna work out for the tag team.

Carlito vs Knox- I am anticipating a Carlito victory unless somehow Mike Knox has a huge push in this thread. I like the quick attacks by Carlito to put himself in control of the match. I expected Knox to get a little bit of offense in but good booking to have Carlito regain momentum with the Tornado DDT. Carlito gives the Backstabber and gets the victory.

Good little Carlito promo. He is trying to give himself the momentum that he once had.

Im really liking this Dykstra interview. He is sounding like a real douchebag which I think is the gimmick he has (cocky champion). I also like that you don’t have Torrie say anything, it makes Kenny look more powerful and over the top. Oh snap, I did not see Carlito making a sneak attack already. He just had his match and everything. This makes me think that hes gonna get eliminated from the KotR tournament and then end up challenging Kenny again.

Hart Legacy vs. Masters/Nitro- I am predicting a Hart Legacy win just because it seemed like the Masters/Nitro tandem wasn’t on the same page. I like the usage of Melina to keep choking Smith as Masters distracts the ref. Puts them really over as heels. Oh man just when it seemed like Nitro and Masters had the momentum, Smith really countered it with the Powerslam for the victory. Glad I predicted right as least.

Holy crap I did not think that they would actually turn on Nitro, I just expected some more arguments between the team. I guess this sets up a big match between the two soon.

I really enjoyed this Orton interview because it really puts him over to the point where him eventually winning the world title will seem natural rather than forced. I also think it was pretty clever that you put a political side into the interview with Orton talking about the Linda vs. Vince thing.

Punk vs Murdoch- If Punk doesn’t win this match then I will be extremely disappointed. Even if Cade is gonna interfere, I hope it doesn’t lead to a Murdoch win because he has no business in the Round of 16. The Punk dive onto Cade and Murdoch was pretty cool. Good ending to the match with Dinsmore able to keep Cade from taking what was CM Punk’s.

Man another aftermath attack? Seems like a recurrence in every match. Im guessing that this will be a small feud for the next month or so.

All Michaels promos after long matches are always awesome and Im liking the way this is going so far. Michaels seems really serious about proving that he was better than Triple H. I like that Michaels is trying to make himself the hero and saying that Triple H hurt so many people so it was ok for him to hurt him. And now the change of subject back to the championship and RVD. I see Michaels possibly getting another shot but definitely not winning it again. Man this was such a legendary heel Michaels promo. He seriously built up a lot of momentum and I wonder where he is gonna end up.

I guess the WGTT interview was ok. It felt like it was kind of forced just because they won their match the night before so it would be weird if they weren’t on Raw. Anyway, it seems like youre hinting at them facing each other in the tournament but I don’t think that’s gonna happen.

Holly vs Hardy- As much as I would love for Hardcore Holly to win this match, I don’t think that there is any way that Hardy loses. This is a surprisingly entertaining match for two totally different types of wrestlers. When I first saw the Alabama Slam in big letters I thought there was the chance that he’d win but obviously Jeff had to counter and get the victory. Good win for him. Could possibly see him winning this thing.

Van Dam vs Cesaro- This is a crazy opening match for Cesaro’s debut, if he could win then that would be crazy but Im banking on RVD winning here. Cesaro seems to be proving himself by being able to keep up with RVD. Before the commercial break it is pretty interesting that Cesaro has the advantage. He is definitely making this into more of a match than he was expecting. After the break everything starts getting crazy. It felt like there were finishers and big-time momentum moves being thrown out left and right. Wow I don’t know why but I shouldve seen Michaels interfering in this match. I think it ending in a count out is perfect to give RVD and Cesaro some credibility.

McMahon is really coming hard at the crowd and at everyone involved in the WWE really by trying to take credit for all of it. Haha at the shots being taken at Eric Bischoff and at Paul Heyman, and even at Linda (spending his money). It really adds to the shoot. McMahon shows his truest commitment to the business with that last section before Linda makes her arrival. I wonder what shes about to say. WHATTTTT War Games for control of WWE? That is crazy. That is going to be absolutely nuts. Then the Cena and Lashley brawl added so much tension to the mix. What a huge announcement by Linda. I am guessing that Lashley is going to be the captain of Vince’s team. I am really looking forward to this one. And it is nice to see Cena not in a championship position for once.

Overall this is show was a much fun read. I hope that one day I can book/write as entertaining as this.
 
#283 ·
A very bold way to introduce Cesaro. I, like most readers, expected him to fit straight into the mid card - and although I believe eventually it’s a spot he’ll settle into for a period of time at least - he’s come straight in with a bang, and made an instant impact on Raw. Even if he had’ve lost in the main event, just being competitive in his opening match with the WWE Champion for the title would’ve instantly propelled him as a serious player. Winning via count out is just the icing on the cake. I can certainly envisage him walking out on Raw next week to declare himself the champion or something, before being interrupted by someone like Jeff Hardy or Carlito, unless he does indeed stick around with the top tier talent for the time being. A memorable debut to say the least for BTB - probably ranking just a fraction below how Legend introduced Punk in his thread.

I also thought Van Dams promo on Cesaro during the opening segment was a very strong baby face promo, setting himself as one of the every day guys in the audience when talking about Cesaros suit & the patriotism, telling him he‘s in America. All done very nicely without pandering to the fans. A good job all round. Just one point to make though, and I’m not sure if I’ve made it before, or just made it in a different thread, but when you have RVD (or anyone for that matter) say WrestleMania XXIII, it might be better to drop the roman numerals and write it as 23. Just, for me, I get thrown off and read it as RVD actually saying X-X-X-I-I.

I am certainly intrigued to see what you do to change up Nitros character. The symbolic sign of him dumping the fur coat in the trash after being double crossed by Melina and Masters certainly points to a change of thinking from Nitro, leaving behind the flamboyant days of MNM. Given his lack of character - and general rotten promo ability - it’ll be fascinating to see what you do to make him an interesting face, aside from his (overly) flashy in ring abilities. Another brave move IMO, splitting him from his crutch, Melina.

“Hunter was my friend. I knew his wife, I knew his kid, I knew everythin’ about him. I don’t know the same about you Rob… don’t gimme a reason to find out.”

That was just chilling. Once more, a splendid, masterful promo from Shawn Michaels, with his lack of emotion for Trips and lack of sorrow for his actions simply chilling. Now that The Game is out of the picture for a while, it makes sense for him to turn his focus back to RVD, and his presence during the main event certainly backs up this promo, and will likely see the two square off on the June PPV. The correlation between Michaels ‘96 take on all comers championship reign and RVD’s current take on comers reign was a nice mirror image for Michaels to play up to. I had reservations initially with how Michaels twisted character would transition from the Triple H feud into this likely RVD feud, but after this opening salvo to state his intentions, those reservations are squashed.

Solid night of action to kick off the King of the Ring tournament, albeit without any shocks or surprises. It appears Carlito should transition out of his Dykstra feud for the time being with a run in the tournament to keep him occupied, although the temptation to see TWGTT square off in the Quarters might be enough to have Carlito dumped in the next round by Benjamin. Either way, I see Haas and Benjamin making it as far as each other, and both men losing out to Carlito and Hardy in the second round is just as likely - two huge matches for the last sixteen (assuming TWGTT safely progress that far :p) whilst the top half of the Raw draw isn’t quite as loaded, with Dykstra seemingly the most likely candidate to win that top half of the draw (I’d love to see him vs. Lawler in the Quarters) - and a potential showdown in the semi finals with Carlito-

TOO MANY VARIABLES!!!!

Which is a good thing, of course. Anyways, outside of the actual KOTR matches, the aftermath of the Punk match would suggest that the SES will transition into a feud with the RNWC in between the tournament matches. It could leave the tag champions in limbo, unless the Harts are to make an assault on the titles themselves, although IMO, it’s still too early for them to be considered a serious threat to the gold.

The build up through the show for the big announcement on whether Vince or Linda would have control was nicely executed, even if the announcement of War Games was rather predictable - nothing is wrong with predictable from time to time - it sets the stage perfectly for the June PPV, with high stakes in the War Games match. It needed a big stipulation for the match to mean anything, and you certainly provided the big stipulation to go with the big match. Cena as Lindas captain made sense, and I expect to see Lashley captain Vinces side, with Ortons comments on Linda earlier in the night putting him in the frame to be the next big name in the team. Shane could also be an outside bet to be part of Vinces team, given his reputation for big spots. All in all, the teams should be loaded by the looks of things, and I cant wait to see how the teams eventually flesh out.

I do hate providing feedback without any real constructive criticism, but honestly, I didn’t find anything overly offensive enough to criticise. A good job all round, with a memorable debut, a strong promo from HBK (again), and the show closing angle all doing their bit. That WrestleMania ‘hangover’ has certainly passed imo, with this perhaps being the strongest weekly show of yours that I’ve read - including the build toward WrestleMania itself.

Great job.
 
#284 · (Edited)
Going to go against the grain here, but fuck it. iMac, you know that I've been a fan of yours for a while now and whilst I may not have left you a ton of feedback, I've been reading all your work, and I've left predictions with feedback, so you know I've been following. I have to be honest though.

Much like the Wolfster below, I'll start off by saying I'm not going to comment too much on the whole show because most of your booking is solid. The midcard is looking great, the use of King of The Ring, War Games, that stuff all looks great. However, as the "bad cop" to Wolfy's good cop act below, I have a different opinion of Cesaro's debut, that being, I feel it was the wrong decision.

There are many times in booking when you have to make a judgment call on whether a particular segment will make Superstar A look better or Superstar B look weak. In this case, whilst you and Wolfy both think that the former is the result, I see the latter being the outcome, that being, that Van Dam has come out of this night looking weak, especially in his current role as WWE Champion. I GET you wanted to debut Cesaro in a big way. I GET that you wanted to thrust him into the main event, and I'm sure you thought that it would be okay for Van Dam to accept a challenge to a title match from a nobody because he's a babyface. But if I am to read your thread as a reader, and assume that I am a viewer, for me, personally, the WWE Championship has now been devalued, Van Dam looks like an idiot, and I think you may have now booked yourself into a position where as a viewer, it'll be very hard for me to buy Van Dam as a credible WWE Champion anymore.

I don't think it's just you, by the way. I think it's a common thing in BTB where bookers seem to think that faces can't reject challenges. This is the wrestling industry. It's NOTORIOUS for newcomers to pay their dues, to earn respect, and to WORK toward title matches. What does it do for the WWE Championship as a title when an unknown (yes, in WWE's "universe", at this point, he is unknown), waltzes on to the show, and the champion ACCEPTS his challenge for a title match? What's the point of number one contendership?? What's the point of everyone else fighting to earn their way to the top?? If it's THAT easy to get a title shot, why doesn't the entire roster line up and one-by-one challenge Van Dam to a title match?? And if you debut anyone else in this thread from now on, and they don't immediately challenge the WWE Champion, why wouldn't they when the champion will accept?? Won't they look inferior by debuting in a much less impactful way than Cesaro?? Again, I'm trying not to sound harsh because I like your efforts and I like this thread, but it just doesn't have any logic to me.

As for Van Dam - this is a guy who's been through all kinds of extreme violence, busted his arse (I can't say "ass", it doesn't sound right :side:) to get to where he is, been through hell, just like most main eventers on RAW, and he's just going to GIVE a debuting superstar a title match??? This SAME guy who went through a Road to WrestleMania tournament, who beat TRIPLE H and SHAWN MICHAELS in the main event at WRESTLEMANIA, is going to put all that hard work aside, all that effort aside, ignore it, as a character, and just give someone a title shot?? Again, I don't get it. Like I said before, maybe you think if Van Dam rejected it'd seem an odd move for a babyface, but I completely disagree. It'd make TOTAL sense for Van Dam to tell this necomer to fuck off and EARN his spot. A non-title match?? Sure. But not for the belt. This is all I have to say on that for now. Edit: Just remembered an extra thing I was going to say. Wolfy made a comparison between you and Legend and your debuts of Cesaro and CM Punk respectively. For me, Legend's worked because Punk debuted and beat a former world champion, which is a different situation to what you did.

Again, to disagree with Wolfy, I'm not sure about the Michaels/Van Dam program. Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed Michaels' character transformation in this thread immensely. However, much like Chris Jericho in "real-life" WWE (if there is such a thing) in 2008, this particular character evolution, caused because of another particular character acting as a catalyst, has a very short "life-expectancy", shall we say. Basically, I'm not sold on how you transitioned Michaels from feuding with HHH to feuding with Van Dam. TO ME (I keep stressing that, because I feel that Wolfy and maybe some others will completely disagree with my comments :p) it almost felt like you were struggling yourself to make that connection between Michaels' personal issue with HHH, and his career-issue with Van Dam. To give you an example off the top of my head, if you haven't seen it, take a look at (again) Chris Jericho's return at the start of 2012 and his first promo back on RAW, before the Elimination Chamber. It was obvious Jericho was back for Punk, back to claim back his "Best of the World" title, but because WWE booked Jericho and Punk in the Chamber match, they had to have Jericho make up some very vague issues with Miz, R-Truth, Kofi Kingston and Dolph Ziggler, and it was so obvious he was clutching at straws. To me, that's what the WrestleMania 12 reference felt like that, as did much of the second half of the promo.

Whilst my comments about Cesaro's debut and RVD were pretty much criticism :side:, I hope that you understand that it was constructive criticism, and the fact I've bothered to write this much feedback (which I barely do for anyone anymore, ever), just goes to show how strongly I feel about it. You're a good booker so I hope you find some way of restoring Van Dam's credibility after this week. Like I said, I know people will disagree with me - after all, after Lesnar lost to John Cena last year in his return match, I never bought him as a true "monster" again, even when he "broke" Triple H's arm, but Alcoholic insisted I was wrong.

Oh, by the way, the part about the Michaels promo (and his character) isn't so much criticism, but just feedback, and perhaps a warning of what's to come. He's had such a strong character, that now the issue with Triple H is over, I can't see him lasting as a heel to the end of 2007. That's a long way off, but if I treat this as I would television, that's my prediction. Much like with heel Chris Jericho in 2008, who needed Shawn Michaels for his character to have its greatest working ability, and heel CM Punk in 2009, who needed Jeff Hardy, it's very difficult to keep these heels with PARTICULAR issues as over as they are as heels without that "match made in heaven" (ironically) opposing them.

I guess people see things in different ways, and right now I've just felt obliged to tell you how I see things. I'm intrigued to see how you respond, so I'll be waiting. :side:
 
#285 ·
Jesus, that's a big old post. Thanks a lot King, very interesting reading. I can't comment on every part of it, but I'll do my best to give you some justification of my actions.

There are many times in booking when you have to make a judgment call on whether a particular segment will make Superstar A look better or Superstar B look weak. In this case, whilst you and Wolfy both think that the former is the result, I see the latter being the outcome, that being, that Van Dam has come out of this night looking weak, especially in his current role as WWE Champion. I GET you wanted to debut Cesaro in a big way. I GET that you wanted to thrust him into the main event, and I'm sure you thought that it would be okay for Van Dam to accept a challenge to a title match from a nobody because he's a babyface. But if I am to read your thread as a reader, and assume that I am a viewer, for me, personally, the WWE Championship has now been devalued, Van Dam looks like an idiot, and I think you may have now booked yourself into a position where as a viewer, it'll be very hard for me to buy Van Dam as a credible WWE Champion anymore.
Y'know, as a booker, I don't think there's ever anything wrong with a champion having a night where he looks weak. Nothing whatsoever. Champions, especially face champion, are as infallible as anybody else in my book. Maybe I never did a good enough job with those videos. I really wanted to emphasis that for all his pomp and pageantry, Cesaro is a real student of the game. He'd studied the competition, he'd identified their strengths and weaknesses. He's arrogant, he believes he's the best in the world, he's proven it across the world, and now he's here to prove it in the WWE, and he doesn't want to waste anytime, he knows the WWE Championship is the richest prize in the sport, and he wants it now. I don't want Cesaro to be some guy who talks a good game. I wanted to bring him in as a legit upper carder, a guy who could come in and hang with the big boys right off the bat. And without giving too much away, we've got another six weeks until War Games. Plenty of time for a rematch between the two, and a chance for Van Dam to pick up a convincing victory. But now, just like Chris Jericho has lived on those "I was the first ever Undisputed Champion" comments for so long, Cesaro has "I beat the WWE Champion in my WWE debut" to kick start his WWE career. And that, for me, is something that he can use as a character.

I don't think it's just you, by the way. I think it's a common thing in BTB where bookers seem to think that faces can't reject challenges. This is the wrestling industry. It's NOTORIOUS for newcomers to pay their dues, to earn respect, and to WORK toward title matches. What does it do for the WWE Championship as a title when an unknown (yes, in WWE's "universe", at this point, he is unknown), waltzes on to the show, and the champion ACCEPTS his challenge for a title match? What's the point of number one contendership?? What's the point of everyone else fighting to earn their way to the top?? If it's THAT easy to get a title shot, why doesn't the entire roster line up and one-by-one challenge Van Dam to a title match?? And if you debut anyone else in this thread from now on, and they don't immediately challenge the WWE Champion, why wouldn't they when the champion will accept?? Won't they look inferior by debuting in a much less impactful way than Cesaro?? Again, I'm trying not to sound harsh because I like your efforts and I like this thread, but it just doesn't have any logic to me.
Well... I dunno really. That's just wrestling. I mean, to take a real world analogy, TNA's Open Fight Night. Why would anybody call out anybody other than Jeff Hardy or whoever the champion happens to be? It's just... wrestling. That's all it is. Some guys would rather settle a personal agenda, while others would rather chase success. I disagree with your notion that a blanket approach has to be taken with regards to guys debuting and going straight for the title. That's the complexity of characters in wrestling, faces show respect, heels don't. If everybody thought the same way, it wouldn't make for a very entertaining show. I take your point about lack of logic, but let's be honest, wrestling in general lacks logic at times. Different guys can have different opinions and different goals. Cesaro's is to come straight in at the top and challenge the top dog. That doesn't mean that the next guy to debut has to think exactly the same way.

Again, to disagree with Wolfy, I'm not sure about the Michaels/Van Dam program. Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed Michaels' character transformation in this thread immensely. However, much like Chris Jericho in "real-life" WWE (if there is such a thing) in 2008, this particular character evolution, caused because of another particular character acting as a catalyst, has a very short "life-expectancy", shall we say. Basically, I'm not sold on how you transitioned Michaels from feuding with HHH to feuding with Van Dam. TO ME (I keep stressing that, because I feel that Wolfy and maybe some others will completely disagree with my comments :p) it almost felt like you were struggling yourself to make that connection between Michaels' personal issue with HHH, and his career-issue with Van Dam. To give you an example off the top of my head, if you haven't seen it, take a look at (again) Chris Jericho's return at the start of 2012 and his first promo back on RAW, before the Elimination Chamber. It was obvious Jericho was back for Punk, back to claim back his "Best of the World" title, but because WWE booked Jericho and Punk in the Chamber match, they had to have Jericho make up some very vague issues with Miz, R-Truth, Kofi Kingston and Dolph Ziggler, and it was so obvious he was clutching at straws. To me, that's what the WrestleMania 12 reference felt like that, as did much of the second half of the promo.
Again, maybe this is me not emphasizing enough the point and Michaels motivation. If I go back to Raw: Night of Champions, Michaels never turned purely to get at Triple H. He turned for selfish reasons, he turned to be champion, and to hell with anybody who got in the way of that. He had achieved his goal, he had became champion, but between them at WrestleMania, Van Dam and Triple H took that away from him. Now his motivation has changed. He's gone from coveting a title to now seeking revenge. The feud with Triple H, that was personal, a necessary step, the big obstacle to overcome. And now it's done, now he wants back what he lost. He sees what Van Dam is doing, he's been the babyface champion, and he's decided that while the fans may appreciate it, he's not interested in them anymore. He's pandered to the masses, but now it's all about him and his desire, his obsession with the WWE Championship. Again though, there's still six weeks left until War Games, and I've got some interesting stuff (well, for me anyway) lined up.

Whilst my comments about Cesaro's debut and RVD were pretty much criticism :side:, I hope that you understand that it was constructive criticism, and the fact I've bothered to write this much feedback (which I barely do for anyone anymore, ever), just goes to show how strongly I feel about it. You're a good booker so I hope you find some way of restoring Van Dam's credibility after this week.
Always appreciate constructive criticism, but I guess I've said it already, I know what I've got lined up and I feel I've got plenty of time to work with to restore Van Dam. Yes, he did look weak tonight. But as I said before, I'll never have an issue with a champion, especially a face one that's not all that physically imposing, having a night or two where the cracks start to show. I guess that's just a booking philosophy I have?

I guess people see things in different ways, and right now I've just felt obliged to tell you how I see things. I'm intrigued to see how you respond, so I'll be waiting. :side:
And that's the beauty of wrestling. And it's pretty much summed up by this forum. That Raw discussion thread, one segment will get a bunch of "That was awesome" posts, while the same segment can receive an equal amount of "That was shit" posts. It's all about opinions, and I certainly value yours.
 
#286 ·
Raw Feedback​

I anticipated Cena starting this one off following what went down at Backlash but Van Dam was always another strong option and it was a typical babyface promo. Nothing wrong with that at all, gotta be done sometimes and I liked the fact he was more than willing to put his title on the line again against somebody like Lashley despite having just overcome Cena. Really wasn’t expecting Cesaro at all, I assumed he’d slot into a midcard storyline but this exposure is huge for him, kudos for being brave and tossing him straight in like this. Also, fair play on chucking all the languages in for Cesaro, they could mean anything and I wouldn’t know but still, good effort. No surprise that Van Dam accepts the challenge and his words after Cesaro’s little speech were again really strong babyface words. Match later on should be gold, I’ll discuss my thoughts on the Wolfy/KING conflict after that.

Building the tension with the McMahon’s, expected this and it was delivered nicely. You got across Vince’s panic and worry well here.

Speaking of tension…saw the break up on the cards after Backlash and after this I don’t think we’ll be far off it now. Melina can be such a fun bitchy character to write and I think you got that down here as well as showing the divide between the partners.

Strong win for Lito here and putting his feud with Dykstra on the backburner might not be the worst move in the world. Would give it a chance to build all the more as well as giving both men a solid run in the tournament. The Lito attack on Kenny after his interview however suggests this could be a more imminent rematch, we shall see. I’d have personally left it to simmer a couple of weeks but no real qualms with Lito’s continued aggression.

Hart Legacy were always gonna get the win here. They looked strong last night and tonight’s no different, their momentum certainly building now. Main story is of course the break up of Nitro and Masters. Was a little surprised to see Melina so involved in it, I know she was the one who laid the challenge down to them to deliver but still, thought Masters would get more physical. Masters and Melina could be an interesting pair while I’m very interested in how you use Nitro as a face. The binning of the fur coat was very symbolic and a nice little touch. I’d expect Nitro to come out on top in a feud between the two moving forward.

Solid interview with Orton, seems to me like he’ll get involved in the McMahon saga now which I’d be all for, adds another big name to the mix and gives him something to do before cashing in that contract.

Punk takes this one to nobody’s surprise. I’d like to see a decent run in this for him, just as a little glimpse of what he’s gonna be capable of on his own down the line. Enjoyed the aftermath and would suggest a feud between these two teams is imminent which I can live with. I’m a fan of the RWC and would love to see them look legit in this feud. Think the SES would come out on top but a strong feud would do both teams wonders.

This was the thing I was looking forward to most. Michaels is the MVP of this thread right now and this didn’t disappoint in my opinion. His faith was evident here, musta been mentioned five or six times in the early stages and it really emphasised just how much he’s truly buying into it all, makes you feel like he really has got a screw loose which after his actions last night may not be wrong.

Him forgiving the fans was awesome, just such a great move. Shifting focus back to the WWE Title makes sense and the way you worded it was correct, the whole journey back to what made him smile is typical HBK right now. Some chilling words following this with the way he played up the Trips feud and how personal it got and especially that line that Wolfy highlighted, that came across as just pure evil. I felt the last little passage probably wasn’t necessary if I’m being honest, I get that you wanted to make a comparison but I think you shoulda just left it on that eerie line. Very enjoyable read and I’ve no doubts this Michaels/Van Dam feud is gonna really hot up in the coming weeks.

Standard promo here from WGTT. Them being more focused on KOTR isn’t a bad thing right now as like they put it, there’s nobody left for them to tick off. I hope you start to build maybe a little tension between the two in the lead up to KOTR, them meeting at some point would be mighty interesting that’s for sure.

Clever stuff here between these two ladies. Beth’s words were strong while Victoria’s slightly torn emotions were great and I’ve no doubts who’ll be accepting Beth’s open challenge next week.

Jeff wins this one all day, every day. I think he’s gonna need a strong showing in this one following his defeat to Orton. A bit of a rebuilding stage for the enigma right now.

First off, the match was strong and Cesaro comes out of it showing exactly what he’s capable of. You’ve now got yourself a legit upper carder right off the bat which is great, new challengers, new stars are always great to see and I’m sure Cesaro’s gonna flourish. I know there’s been a split decision in your first couple reviews and I’m more in the Wolfy camp to be honest. I think this has been a great night for Cesaro while Van Dam does slightly, slightly come out of it looking a little weaker in losing to a newcomer. It’s nothing major however as Michaels played it up earlier on that cracks were beginning to show whilst he also played in his part in the outcome, distracting his attention and that’s something Van Dam won’t take lightly. In my personal opinion, the only mistake here was making this a match for the title. I know you’re playing up that he’ll defend it anywhere against anybody but I think everybody knew Cesaro wouldn’t win the gold but couldn’t lose his debut either. If you’d have gone non title, you could’ve had Cesaro perhaps even pin the champion thanks to an even bigger distraction from Michaels and that then could’ve lead to a title match on an upcoming Raw where Van Dam does get the victory.

Classic Vince here. Loved how much he put all the company’s success down to him and the running down of all his competitors over the years was great and does establish just how strong he’s proved to be with the amount of challenges he’s come up against. I’m not a massive fan of Linda, I think I’ve said that before, I just think she’s very bland but I get the whole power struggle thing and as long as she stays somewhat in the background heading into this HUGE War Games showdown, I’ll be more than happy with the build to this. I’ve not seen a War Games match written before in the section that I can think of so I’m hugely excited to read it when it comes but the build should be great too with so much at stake. I’ve no doubts Vince will go all out to bring the big guns into his team. Cena and Lashley as captains I would assume and it may very well be those two who have the deciding say come June 17th.

On the whole a fantastic fallout show from Backlash. The last month was a tiny bit flat compared to your usual but Wrestlemania hangover was always likely, it’s certainly gone now. Michaels/Van Dam seems to be in motion while you got a main player now in Cesaro already. I hope the McMahon feud kicks up another level next week and that we start to get a couple more names in the teams, I’m thinking Orton’s the first to jump on board. A whole lot to look forward to and a whole lot accomplished with this one. Good job and looking forward to SD.
 
#287 ·
~Friday Night SmackDown~
May 4th, 2007
Von Braun Center
Huntsville, Alabama






Last week London, England played host to Friday Night SmackDown and it's two title matches. While Matt Hardy registered a convincing victory over Finlay to retain his United States Championship, the World Heavyweight Championship Match between Batista and Mr. Kennedy came to an abrupt ending... all thanks to Edge.

As Batista and Kennedy were battling to a finish, Edge stormed the ring, delivering the spear to Batista and then to Mr. Kennedy, handing the victory to Batista albeit via disqualification. The issues between these three have been escalating for months now, and it appears that after Edge's recent actions, they could reach breaking point. Tonight, Batista and Matt Hardy to team up to face Edge and Hardy's opponent at Judgment Day, The Miz. With Batista desperate to get his hands on Edge, and with Edge desperate to get his hands on the World Heavyweight Championship, expect this one to be fierce battle, but of course, one question remains... just what role, if any, will Mr. Kennedy play in it all?

The 2007 King of the Ring kicked off on Raw last Monday, and now SmackDown joins the party with three qualifying matches. The WWE Tag Team Champions The Hooligans will collide, an intriguing matchup given the rather frosty relationship that has existed between the two since WrestleMania. No doubt Ashley will have both men ready for action, and they'll enter the match united and best of friends... but is that how they'll leave it? Elsewhere, expect a brutal battle between Kane and Finlay, the two heavy hitter so far suffering very different post-WrestleMania 2007s. Kane has been on a roll, picking up win after win, while Finlay has lost the United States Championship and failed to win it back in a rematch. Just one week after the brutal Belfast Brawl, Finlay may not be 100%, something which Kane will no doubt take advantage of. As for King Booker, he begins the defence of his crown and aims to become the first man to win the tournament twice. Tommy Dreamer will be no push over, but Booker should be able to make it through to the next round.

After weeks of bickering and back and forth between the Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms and his WrestleMania opponent, Bryan Danielson, tonight is finally the night that Danielson gets the chance to earn another shot at the gold as he is one of ten men competing in a Cruiserweight Battle Royal, the winner set to go to Judgment Day to face Helms for the title. Three members of The Full Blooded Italians, both Asian ******** and a host of other cruiserweights are set to compete, but surely now that he's so close to getting the title shot he craves, Danielson won't let this chance slip y him.

Last week, Chavo Guerrero started a retrospective of sorts of Rey Mysterio's career, starting by calling legendary cruiserweight Dean Malenko out to the ring. After harsh words were exchanged between the two, it appeared as if Chavo and Malenko would go their seperate ways with a showing of respect... only for Guerrero to sucker punch Malenko, then nail him with the frog splash, adding insult to injury. Tonight, Chavo vows to once again take us on a trip down memory lane by inviting an opponent from Rey's past into the ring. Just who does Chavo have in mind? Tune in to find out!

Confirmed Matches:

Batista and Matt Hardy vs. Edge and The Miz

King of the Ring Qualifying Matches – Round of 32
Brian Kendrick vs. Paul London
Finlay vs. Kane
King Booker vs. Tommy Dreamer

Chavo Guerrero vs. An Opponent From Rey Mysterio's Past
10 Man Cruiserweight Battle Royal
 
#290 ·
Smackdown Feedback​

Always nice to see a match start off a show and this was a really strong choice to go with. Very strong contest between these two veterans and to be honest I could’ve seen it go either way, both men could’ve done with the win but Kane’s not a bad choice at all and he has been on a strong roll of late. Aftermath was cleverly done with the use of the Little Bastard and a ruthless assault from Finaly that gives him all his heat back following defeat. Must say I was a bit surprised you didn’t utilise the Little Bastard during the match considering you acknowledged he was out there with Finlay, instead waiting til after, effective but thought maybe he could’ve tried it during the match.

Finlay/Kane, Judgment Day, awesome. Expecting nothing but a straight up fight in that one, hopefully Finlay getting back on the winning trail to go with it. Well worked, simple segment.

Decent Kennedy interview, not surprised to see him voicing his frustrations and everything he had to say was a valid point. I did like the fact that you played up just how serious Kennedy was here which isn’t always the norm and I’m sure we’ll finally settle the World Title debate tonight.

Great stuff with the F.B.I, got a good laugh out of the Hamburglar stuff with Helms:lol. Clever stuff with regards to Helms wanting their help although I sense that won’t end all too well…

No surprise that Danielson started this one off as the man on fire, quickly getting one out of the way in Daivari. Noble being next out was a little disappointing, thought he’d get a bit more than that but facts are this was never gonna be about anything but Danielson’s quest for another opportunity and the F.B.I. trying to thwart that. Really surprised that the F.B.I DID look this strong, they had an awful lot of eliminations compared to what I expected although when it came down it to it Mr. ‘YES!’ man was always gonna walk out victorious. A nice little story to this match though and some solid action throughout. Good job.

Much preferred this Edge interview to the Kennedy one. You played up his frustrations even better than KK with him still believeing he shoulda won at Mania. The way he interacted with Matthews was great and the mocking of Kennedy at the end had me:lmao.

This whole Rey Mysterio ‘tribute’ thing is a heck of an idea and it’s just nice to see a few of these old faces popping up. Guerrero’s really been on a roll since this feud picked up, his promos have been great and this one was solid if unspectacular. Trouble is it gets a little repetitive what with the fact Rey isn’t there to respond. It’s probably gonna be similar every week but this challenging Rey’s past will no doubt be the most intriguing part and Psicosis is a great shout. You gave him a few moments too which was nice to see but Chavo was always walking out on top and it’s yet another emphatic message to Rey Rey ahead of Judgment Day, it’s one that could really steal the show.

Hit and miss here for me. I like the fact that it portrayed the tension between London and Kendrick, you’re doing a good job with the slow, subtle build of a break up. However I think you could’ve just had Ashley maybe be the one to set Kendrick off a bit, have her maybe say she sides with London on this one or imply it. The Batista thing just was a bit random to me, I can see why you did it but it just seemed a little out of place.

Really strong stuff from all three here. You got Batista’s no nonsense written well whilst Kennedy and Edge were on point once again, Kennedy goading Tista into that match was smart heel booking. I anticipated the Triple Threat announcement at the end of the show so wasn’t entirely surprised that it happened here, gonna be a huge match come Judgment Day. As for the other announcement, Kennedy being Special Guest Ref tonight makes sense and allows him an ‘in’ with regards to the two men’s business tonight, expecting shenanigans.

Absolutely thrilled that Kendrick won this one. I thought you’d give it to London and Kendrick would eventually snap but this is great in going the other way. Sense that Kendrick’s arrogance is only gonna rise now and lead to the inevitable break up. Aftermath was well played on and the little details were nice, Ashley’s involvement in this only adds to the situation also.

Nice bit of hype for Miz here and your slow, progressive build for him is certainly coming across well. A main event tonight will no doubt continue to help in furthering him.

I was absolutely shocked that Booker went out here. BUT…then I thought about it and realised he has been on a downward spiral of late and a win here would’ve put an end to all that so my shock soon turned to ‘you’re a clever so and so’. Promo with Booker and Coach made perfect sense and the Coachman Coalition is certainly looking like it’s gonna be one mighty strong group come Judgment Day.

Very strong main event and the use of Kennedy in it went exactly as I thought it would. Costing Batista would’ve been all too predictable so to cost Edge especially after the tension between the two and the Spear to boot made a ton of sense. Was a tad surprised it wasn’t Miz eating the pin at first but the fact it was Kennedy playing the deciding factor was totally the right call. Think that contract signing next week will be a wild one what with the way this is panning out.

On the whole a really progressive show. The World Title scene developed nicely and the Edge/Kennedy tension was a real highlight for me. Kendrick/London also had some nice development tonight as well as Booker’s recent decline. A lot of positives and I think you’re gonna crank it up another notch come the next one. Good job fella.
 
#291 ·
First time I recall leaving feedback for Smackdown in the thread - but I have been reading. A bit like Raw, I wont be commenting on each segment in order...

With Kane, Finlay, Hardy, Kennedy, MVP, Helms, Danielson & Booker all involved in the King of the Ring tournament, it's safe to say the Smackdown half of the draw is pretty loaded. Interesting to see someone like Kane involved in the KOTR tournament at this stage of his career, although he just seems to be treading water at present on Smackdown - albeit winning matches almost every week - maybe a solid run in the tournament could help springboard him into doing something meaningful. I guess the problem with Kane is that he's just about feuded with everyone over the years - as both face and heel, and despite his tenure etc, a Batista vs Kane feud, or Edge vs Kane, or even Kennedy vs Kane feud doesnt hold a lot of appeal personally, and perhaps that's why he's just floating along as a big name at present without any real direction.

The win over Finlay keeps him looking strong to build off the recent wins over MVP & Booker, while Finlay was allowed to look equally strong, brutalizing the Big Red Monster after the match, setting the stage nicely for an undercard match at Judgment Day. I expect Kane to win that one, and probably get a good run in the KOTR tournament to go with it - although the likely meeting with Hardy in the next round could see his run end prematurely. I'll be interested to see just where you go with Kane in the long run, and if you do indeed do something with him to freshen him up and seem relevant, as he could still potentially be a strong player in the main event scene for you.

Loving the slow burn Kendrick heel turn at present. The line a few weeks back when he wanted to take off early because he had a date cracked me up. He's starting to become a LOT more selfish, and blatantly disrespecting the World Champion (albeit with good reason) before running to the ring slower than London to be fresher for the match were great little creases to add. The heel turn is coming, and it's building to that point nicely. I was a little surprised he didnt put his feet on the ropes to win the match - but I was also quite pleased he didnt either, as it would've been too easy to go down that route. Instead, over-celebrating his win before shaking Londons hand was a much more inventive and clever way to go about it, rather than the obvious heelish move he could've made. I see them still retaining the titles at Judgment Day, before dropping them further down the road (perhaps to the team that Coach is assembling) as I feel it's still too early to split the pair, given how much fun it is teasing the break up. I'd love to see it go on for another month at least - it's damn entertaining for this reader to follow :)

The poster boy for the KOTR tournament and defending King - OUT!!?? :shocked:

Now, that was a shocker. Despite Bookers struggles of late, I firmly expected him to navigate his way to the final eight at least, with Tommy Dreamer jobber fodder really. It just goes to show how far the former champ has fallen recently, and I see the end of the 'King' gimmick now that he's agreed to join Coach and MVP (and Mark Henry, right? :cool2), although it would allow you more comedy type interaction between the group if he did keep the act up, I suspect this group will want to be taken seriously. Not sure what the end game is exactly for Coachmans Coalition, but given the way he's been treated by Teddy Long, I wouldnt rule out a power struggle for the GM position on Smackdown. It's a mightily impressive group he is forming - one that could potentially dominate Smackdown if booked correctly.

The continued use of 'Don' Marella and the FBI has been a particular highlight for me when reading Smackdown. I couldn't quite use Marella well in a comedy role, but you're pulling it off nicely with him leading this group. His interaction with Helms was funny, and the pair coming to an arrangement to stack the deck against Danielson was smart. Shocked to see Shannon Moore get a solid run in the match, eliminating Noble early on, but the match was all about Bryan Danielson and him earning his shot at the gold. Overcoming the FBI (even though they are positioned as more of a comedy act) was still impressive enough to put him over, especially after being attacked by Helms.

I was glad when you didnt do the title change at WrestleMania between Helms and Danielson. It would've been lost in the shuffle with everything else, and seeing as Helms is the longest reigning CW champ ever, it would mean a lot more to do the switch at Judgment Day where it has the opportunity to get 1) More time, 2) Make more of an impression, 3) Potentially steal the show, 4) End the 15 month reign in a more meaningful, memorable way. That's if Danielson wins though ...

... But I'm sure he will this time :agree:

The stuff you've been doing with Chavo as of late has been pretty awesome too, I must say. I'm digging the angle to hype Mysterios anticipated return, although I would've rather it be a one on one match for his return and save LMS for another time - however, back to the angle itself. As I said, I'm digging the angle, and the stuff you've been doing with Chavo has been inspired, and it feels like something different and fresh to build toward the match at Judgment Day - and more importantly, make Rey seem like a big deal even without having to be at the show. The beatdown on Malenko last week topped the lot if I'm honest, but bringing in Psichosis this week was good too. Not too hot on Chavo mentioning Eddie as a way to get heat, but that's just me. Looking forward to what he has planned for next week, and I just wonder whether perhaps Rey will make a surprise return in the next two weeks just before the PPV and surprise Chavo to run him from the ring. Either saving his first appearance for the PPV itself or having him do a surprise run in would work for me, the angle has been enjoyable for sure.

And so, onto the main event angle. Both Edge and Kennedy are in prime position to take the belt from Batista IMO with the way both have been booked as of late. The repeated mentions of Benoit by Edge makes me think you might just bring him back for one (or two) match(es) before his real life exit at the end of June, which is why I expect Edge to NOT take the title at Judgment Day, with Benoit possibly costing him the gold to further infuriate him. Kennedy's interview made a lot of sense (although he was about to be beaten anyway it seemed last week) and him vs Batista in a cage would make a lot of sense too, given how the matches between them have panned out last week and at No Way Out.

"There’s a lotta talkin’ goin’ on tonight. I’ve heard from Edge, I’ve heard from Kennedy, and to be honest with ya’… I’ve heard enough."

That's a great line - the exact type of thing you'd expect to hear from a guy like Batista. Batistas in ring rebuttal to both mens interviews was pretty standard, typical cave-man Dave. Although (maybe I'm about to channel KING with this) I didnt like how he said he didnt care if he defended the title in a triple threat. Given he wouldn't have to be involved in the decision to lose the title, I cant see why he wouldnt care if it was a triple threat. I'd have much rather hear him say he'd face them one after the other, as for me, while still somewhat dumb (he'd be pretty tired after the first match) it still makes him sound tough and with plenty of belief in himself that he can beat both guys, and they cant beat him. But still, I get where you'd be coming from with having him say that, as at this point he just wants both of them out of his sight I guess, I just dont see the logic in him not caring about defending the title in a match where he doesnt have to be involved to lose.

All that aside, the triple threat announcement made sense, as both guys are equally deserving of the shot at Batista. I'm intrigued as to what Long has up his sleeve for both Kennedy and Edge next week, in addition to the contract signing. At this point, it doesnt feel like we're coming quite to the end of the line for Batistas run with the belt, and as it stands, I see him retaining the title at Judgment Day, but I guess my opinion could well change before then. Obviously, while it might be a good idea for Kennedy and Edge to come together and take out Batista before going at it ... it appears that idea wont be on the table, with Kennedy getting at Edge to cost him the tag match main event.

It was interesting to see Miz in the mix, main eventing Smackdown, as you've invested quite a bit in him as of late - as mentioned on commentary, with his win prior to WM and run since then. The McCool alliance doesnt strike me as a natural fit, but I'm sure I'll slowly coming around to them as a pair, although despite his recent upswing, I dont see any way in which he takes the U.S title from Hardy - I think he's just getting started on a LONG run with the belt.

Overall, Smackdown is coming along nicely imo. It's not as buzzworthy as Raw has been at times, but it's been a solid show every week that I'm getting plenty of pleasure in reading.
 
#292 ·
I smell the makings of THE Brian Kendrick, which was a character I always enjoyed. Hopefully, if that is the route it goes, you book him better than WWE did.

I am quite shocked to see King Booker out of this tournament so soon, but it certainly adds a swerve in during the early stages. It brings the audience in and tosses things into the air as to who could win this. I know who I wish to win, but I will hold off on saying until we get down to a final 8 or 4.

Overall it was another great show, your video packages are amazing. Some of the best I have ever read. I love those extra touches to the shows, along with the return videos, it adds the realism to it that just brings it over the edge.
 
#293 ·
~Monday Night Raw~
May 7th, 2007
Bryce Jordan Center
State College, Pennsylvania






Last week, Linda McMahon made an announcement that shocked the WWE to it's very foundations. The civil war threatening to tear apart Monday Night Raw is going to be settled one way or another inside one of the most famous matches in wrestling history... War Games.

With the WWE Board of Directors again unable to come to a decision as to whether it should be Vince or Linda McMahon who should be granted control of Monday Night Raw, Linda interrupted her husband to personally deliver the Board's recommendation, that a War Games Match at the upcoming pay per view would settle the issue once and for all. With Vince and Bobby Lashley caught off guard by the announcement, John Cena was able to clear the ring, meaning the early advantage went to Team Linda and it's captain. Tonight, Cena has promised to announce the second member of Team Linda, something that Mr. McMahon will no doubt be very interested in hearing... and perhaps even upstaging as he begins to form his own team.

Claudio Cesaro made a rather shocking debut on Raw last week, interrupting the WWE Champion, Rob Van Dam, and challenging Van Dam to a WWE Title Match. Ever the fighting champion, Van Dam of course accepted, and seemed well on the way to victory until Shawn Michaels, the man who was victorious at Backlash against Triple H, made his intentions clear. Appearing on the stage during the match, Michaels echoed his words from earlier in the evening... namely that he wants the WWE Championship back in his possession. The distraction would cost Van Dam though, as when he dropped out of the ring to confront Michaels, Cesaro attacked from behind, giving him a countout victory over the WWE Champion in his first match. Tonight, Van Dam teams with young guns The Straight Edge Saints in six man action as they face Mike Knox and The ******* Wrecking Crew. Van Dam will no doubt be determined to lead his team to victory, but just what will he have to say with regards to Michaels, Cesaro, and the WWE Championship.

The first three members of the Raw half of the King of the Ring advanced last week, with Carlito, Jeff Hardy and CM Punk all making it through to the last 16. Tonight, three more qualifiers take place, with Jerry Lawler dropping the headseat to take on Chris Masters, Harry Smith squaring off with the Intercontinental Champion, Kenny Dykstra, while Shelton Benjamin goes against Super Crazy. After ditching Johnny Nitro last week, Masters and Melina now seem set to focus their sights on becoming King of the Ring, while Dykstra will no doubt be looking over his shoulder for Carlito, who attacked the Intercontinental Champion during an interview last week. It promises to be a fascinating night as the Raw bracket continues to shape up as we head ever closer to Saturday Night's Main Event.

And finally, having issued an open challenge last week, just who will respond to Beth Phoenix and face her for the Women's Championship? Will it be former champion Mickie James? Or will she heed Phoenix's warning and stay far away from Monday Night Raw? All this and more, tonight on Raw!


Confirmed Matches:

Rob Van Dam and The Straight Edge Saints vs. Mike Knox and The ******* Wrecking Crew

King of the Ring Qualifying Matches – Round of 32
Chris Masters vs. Jerry Lawler
Harry Smith vs. Kenny Dykstra
Shelton Benjamin vs. Super Crazy

Beth Phoenix's Open Challenge for the Women's Championship

Plus! John Cena will announce the second member of Team Linda, we'll find out who Mr. McMahon has lined up for his squad, and we'll hear from Claudio Cesaro and Shawn Michaels!
 
#294 ·
~Monday Night Raw~
May 7th, 2007
Bryce Jordan Center
State College, Pennsylvania



”Let's see Cena try and top that!”




We open with a recap video from last week highlighting the two major stories from last week's show, namely the debut of Claudio Cesaro and his challenge to Rob Van Dam, with the appearance of Shawn Michaels during the match leading to a shock countout victory in Cesaro's first WWE match over the WWE Champion. We then see footage from the announcement by Linda McMahon that the power struggle over control of Raw will be settled in a War Games Match, with Linda announcing John Cena as the captain of her team, the show ending with a brawl between Cena and Bobby Lashley, with Cena clearly Lashley from the ring, he and Linda standing tall as the video comes to an end.

From here, we bypass the usual Raw opening video and instead go cold into the arena, where after a few seconds of silence we hear...

*MY TIME IS NOW...*

The silence is ripped apart by a thunderous, yet as always, mixed response as John Cena steps out onto the stage. The cheers outweigh the boos, and Cena appreciates this as he takes a look around the arena, before he offers up a salute and then charges down to the ring...


Jim Ross: Last week, Linda McMahon made announcement that has shocked the WWE right to the core. The McMahon power struggle for control of Monday Night Raw will be settled in a War Games Match, and that man right there, John Cena, will be the captain of Team Linda. It's an announcement that all of us Raw are still reeling from! Hello everyone, I'm Jim Ross alongside me, as always is Jerry 'The King' Lawler and Joey Styles,and we're kickin' things off with the man who will lead Team Linda into battle in six weeks’ time, John Cena.

Joey Styles: It was an announcement that shocked us all, for the first time in almost a decade, the War Games Match has returned to professional wrestling, and the stakes could not be higher. For John Cena, Mr. McMahon has been the bane of his existence these last few months, but War Games provides Cena with the chance to remove all power and authority from Vince's grasp.

Jim Ross: Last week was certainly a huge night, a night that could change the course of the WWE and Monday Night Raw forever! But tonight is already shapin' up to be another huge night, with a Six Man Tag Team Match featuring the WWE Champion, Rob Van Dam, teaming up with The Straight Edge Saints, to take on The ******* Wrecking Crew and the always dangerous, Mike Knox.

Jerry Lawler: And not only that J.R., we've also got an open challenge by Beth Phoenix for the Women's Championship, and three King of the Ring qualifiers, and yours truly is steppin' into the ring tonight!

Jim Ross: And we'll all be rootin' for ya' 'King' when you take on Chris Masters later this evenin'. But right now, let's here from the captain of Team Linda, John Cena...

Cena steps into the ring and heads to the corner, where he's handed a mic by Lillian Garcia, then he heads to the middle of the ring and waits for his music to die down. As the music stops, the crowd continue to be loud, again the cheers outweighing the boos, Cena nodding in appreciation before he brings the mic to his mouth...

John Cena: Wow. You guys are pretty loud tonight, huh?

A small pop from the fans...

John Cena: And I think I know why. I'm pretty sure it has a lil' somethin' to do with the announcement that in six weeks’ time, Monday Night Raw... we're goin' to war.

Another pop, with Cena staring straight down the hard camera, the intensity in his eyes showing how much War Games means to him...

John Cena: The McMahon power struggle was way too big to be settled by a regular one on one match. Oh no. It had to be two teams, ten men inside a cage, winner – takes – all.

Cena pauses to emphasise how serious he is, before he then turns back to the fans...

John Cena: And I know you guys are as pumped up about it as I am!

Another pop, with Cena's excitement coming through as he paces back and forth...

John Cena: I can't wait! I can barely sleep, I am so excited, 'cause I know I am so damn close to finally endin' Vince McMahon's reign of terror here on Raw.

Cena nods his head and smiles as he considers that prospect, dreaming of a McMahon-free future for Raw...

John Cena: I am so close, but I know I can't do it alone. I know I gotta pick four other guys to be on Team Linda. And that's why I'm out here right now. I wanna say this to all the boys sittin' in the back.

Turning towards the entrance way, Cena points backstage...

John Cena: This is an opportunity not to be missed. For some of you, this could be the biggest chance you'll ever get to make a name for yourself.

And now Cena steps towards the ropes and looks straight down a nearby camera...

John Cena: We stand just six weeks away from makin' history. Just six weeks away from endin' thirteen years of Vince McMahon dominatin' this show.

Pop...

John Cena: At War Games, it all comes to an end for Vince, and dammit, now's the time to be part of that! I'm offerin' the chance to be part of history, to go down in WWE folklore as part of the team that finally stood up to Vince McMahon and said... no more.

Bigger pop...

John Cena: If Vince ever screwed you over, if he ever knocked you back for a raise, hell, if ya' smiled at 'im the corridor one day and he just looked at ya' with disgust, then I wanna hear from ya'!

More intensity and enthusiasm from Cena, who now starts to pace the ring...

John Cena: But most importantly, I wanna hear from guys who've got those three qualities that mean so much to me. Hustle... loyalty... and respect. That's what it's gonna take to win a match like War Games.

Changing tact, Cena now turns back to the fans...

John Cena: And as captain, I know how important it is to get the right balance. We need to be young, hungry, athletic, but at the same time, we need that experience, we need to be smart and we need leaders. And with all that in mind, the second member of Team Linda will be revealed... tonight.

Another pop, the fans clearly excited by that prospect...

John Cena: Y'see when Raw went off the air last week, I got a phone call. I gotta admit, I wasn't expectin' it. It caught me off guard. But I listened to what this guy had to say...

Pausing, Cena narrows his eyes and again stares into the hard camera...

John Cena: And I heard it in his voice. I heard the passion, the desire, the hunger, the pain this guy's suffered at the hands of Vince in the past, and I knew there and then... I'd found my first teammate.

Pop...

John Cena: And that's what I need from all the boys in the back. If you wanna be a part of history, me and Linda have got an office back there, kick the damn door down and show me how badly you wanna be a part of this.

Bigger pop...

John Cena: Or better yet, come-

*MIRACLE...*

Just like last week, the fans break out with an initial loud pop that quickly turns to a ton of heat as Claudio Cesaro decides to interrupt the opening segment. Wearing a sharp suit, Cesaro stands in the entrance way, a smirk on his face, before he raises a fist in the air and then heads down the ramp. As he enters the ring, Cesaro is again all smiles, holding his arms out wide, soaking in the jeers of the crowd. Turning towards Cena, an awkward standoff ensues between the two, Cena standing firm, his eyes fixed square on Cesaro, while Cesaro smirks again and looks Cena up and down, then he heads for the corner and asks for a mic...


Claudio Cesaro: John Cena! Guten Abend, mein Freund! How are you?

Again Cesaro laughs, shaking his head as Cena simply stares at him in response...

Claudio Cesaro: Mr. Cena, I've been wanting to meet you. It's an honour, a pleasure to be stood in the ring with you.

Cena offers a wry smile in response, clearly not buying Cesaro's words...

Claudio Cesaro: But tell me... did you see my WWE debut last week? Did you see my match with the WWE Champion, Rob Van Dam?

Cena nods, saying “Yeah, I saw it.”...

Claudio Cesaro: You did? Then you know only too well that last week... I beat the WWE Champion in my very first match.

Again Cena nods, although this time very begrudgingly...

Claudio Cesaro: And that means that you know... that right now, I should be WWE Champion. And that means you know that I should be facing Rob Van Dam tonight in a rematch, for the WWE Title. You know this, yes?

In response, Cena shakes his head, but Cesaro ignores this and simply carries on...

Claudio Cesaro: And you also know that the fact that instead of defending his title against me tonight, Rob Van Dam is competing in a Six Man Tag Team Match... well that makes him a coward.

A loud negative reaction for the fans, which causes Cesaro to glare at them...

Claudio Cesaro: For all his talk about taking all on challengers, he escaped last week with his title. And this week, I show up at this arena, expecting a rematch... and I get nothing. That is no way to do business. But then... I wouldn't expect any less from such an ignorant country.

And more heat...

Claudio Cesaro: America... you're very good at starting fights... not so good at finishing them. And then there's you, John. You are the big star here in the WWE. Your name is known around the world, you've been on television, movies, you make music... but you are what's wrong with this country. You represent what's wrong with America... and what's wrong with the WWE.

Raising his eyebrows in surprise, Cena mouths “Really?” and shakes his head...

Claudio Cesaro: They put your face on-

John Cena: Alright, wait a minute. Enough. I'm not listenin' to this anymore.

The fans pop, pleased to hear Cena put an end to Cesaro's tirade...

John Cena: Lemme tell ya' a thing or two about how we do things around here. This is the WWE. Around here, people pay their dues, bust their asses night after night to get an opportunity like the one you got last week. Nobody walks up to the champion of this company on their first night and demands a title shot, and lemme tell ya', your damn lucky that Rob Van Dam's the kinda guy that never backs down from a challenge, 'cause most guys would've laughed your chocolate lovin' ass right outta the ring!

Again the crowd pop, with Cesaro narrowing his eyes, seething at the insult...

John Cena: Now 'RVD', he ain't my friend, he ain't my buddy, but I respect the hell outta that guy, and I know one thing for sure... Rob Van Dam is anythin' but a coward.

Cena's burns a whole right through Cesaro with an intense stare, pausing to emphasise how much he means that last remark...

John Cena: Van Dam had you down, he had you beat, he was ready to put your ass away with the frog splash, and if it wasn't for Shawn Michaels comin' out here, you'd have lost your first match, and you wouldn't even be out here havin' this conversation with me.

Another pop...

John Cena: Rob's got another match tonight, that's fine, that's his business, but if you're at a loose end tonight and you're lookin' for a fight... then you look at me.

Taking a step forward, Cena gets in Cesaro's face, a serious challenge made to the newcomer. At first Cesaro looks intimidated, but when he takes a step back and creates some space, that smirk soon crosses his face again...

Claudio Cesaro: Ah, John... So vorhersehbar. You’re so predictable! I knew you would say that, John. That's exactly why I came out here.

Looking into the distance, Cesaro ponders a dream scenario for himself...

Claudio Cesaro: My first week in the WWE, I beat Rob Van Dam. My second... I beat John Cena. Nobody could ever claim to have such success in such a short period of time.

Another smirk, and even a sense of excitement in Cesaro's eyes as he imagines what his winning record could look like at the end of the evening...

Claudio Cesaro: And that's what makes me so different than everybody else. Pay my dues? Ha! Do you accept cash or credit card?

Cesaro laughs to himself, but Cena is clearly not amused as the defiant look on his face remains in place...

Claudio Cesaro: I don't wait to earn opportunities... I take them. I'm not going to start at the bottom and work my way up... when I know that I'm better than anybody who steps in the ring with me.

A nonchalant shrug from Cesaro, but before he can continue, Cena brings his mic to his mouth and cuts in...

John Cena: Well that's your problem right there. Now I'll give it to ya', yes, technically, you did beat the WWE Champion on your first night here. That sounds very impressive. But the boys in the back, and all of these fans in this arena and watchin' around the world... they're not fooled. Hustle, loyalty, respect, that might not matter where you come from, but it damn sure matters here, and right now, you ain't showin' no respect to this company, you ain't showin' no respect to Rob Van Dam and the WWE Championship, and you ain't showin' no respect to any of these people.

Cesaro shrugs, clearly not caring, but again Cena narrows his eyes and points a finger in Cesaro's direction...

John Cena: And until you beat, and I mean shoulders to the mat 1-2-3 beat, until you beat the very best this company has to offer... you ain't better than nobody.

Another cheer from the fans, appreciating the fire and passion in Cena's voice as he says those words...

Claudio Cesaro: Alright, John... fine. Have it your way. Heute abend , du und ich ... eins zu eins!

Cesaro runs a hand across his jaw, nodding to himself...

Claudio Cesaro: But just like I promised Rob Van Dam last week, I'm gonna make the same promise to you. I will beat you, Mr. Cena. And when I do... then everybody will know... I'm better than you.

And now Cesaro turns to leave, but puts on the breaks to turn back to Cena and say...

Claudio Cesaro: And when I beat you... I want Rob Van Dam... and the WWE Championship. Ich werde der champion!

*MIRACLE...*

And with that, Cesaro now does indeed head for the ropes, stepping through them and onto the apron, taking another look back at Cena, before he again smirks then drops down to the floor and walks up the aisle. The camera cuts to Cena, his eyes fixated on Cesaro's back as he walks away, an intense look in his eyes piercing the screen as we head into the first commercial of the evening.

*Commercial*

*Video Package*

"]We open to grainy, black and white footage from back in the NWA days, where we see one of the first War Games matches, where Dusty Rhodes has Ric Flair locked in the figure four leglock, Flair writhing and screaming in pain, but there’s no sound as over the top we hear extracts from President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s famous address from 1936...

Narrator: For years, many men entered it’s caged walls…

“I HAVE SEEN WAR… I HATE WAR.”

We now see more footage from early War Games, where Road Warrior Animal viciously jams one of the spikes from his shoulder pads into the eye of The War Machine, causing him to submit...

Narrator: But no man ever left the same.

”I HAVE SEEN WAR ON LAND AND SEA.”

More black and white footage, this time from Fall Brawl ’95, where Hulk Hogan leads his Hulkamaniacs team to victory over The Dungeon of Doom by forcing The Zodiac to submit to a camel clutch...

Narrator: And now, with a civil war threatening to rip the WWE apart…

“I HAVE SEEN CITIES DESTROYED.”

And now Fall Brawl ’97, where Curt Hennig turns his back on The Four Horsemen, smashing the cage door into the skull of Ric Flair, handing victory to the nWo…

Narrator: The most barbaric of matches has returned.

“I HAVE SEEN THE AGONY OF MOTHERS AND WIVES.”

We now cut to modern day footage to see Vince and Linda McMahon stood across from each other, tense looks on both their faces…

Mr. McMahon: The reason this company has made hundreds of millions of dollars over the years… is all because… of ME!

“I HAVE SEEN BLOOD RUNNING FROM THE WOUNDED.”

A shot of a busted open John Cena, blood streaming down his face as he struggles to use the ropes to try pull himself to his feet…

John Cena: Tonight is a night to fight!

Slow motion shots of the brawling John Cena and Bobby Lashley have done over the last few months, each punch that lands being accompanied by the sound of a bomb dropping…

Linda McMahon: Both myself and the Board of Directors feel that you, Vince… have seriously abused your power lately.

We now see John Cena scooping Vince up onto his shoulders, then deliver a thunderous FU, an explosion sound echoing out as Vince strikes the canvas…

Mr. McMahon: I’m Vince McMahon, I’m ‘The Chairman of the Board’, dammit!

And now finally we see rapid firs shots of Linda, then Vince, then Lashley, before a final shot of Cena…

Narrator: The battle for power on Monday Night Raw can be settled only one way…

“I HAVE SEEN WAR… I HATE WAR.”

”WAR GAMES!”



"WWE WAR GAMES – JUNE 17TH – LIVE ON PAY PER VIEW!"

*End Video Package*

From the video, we cut to what appears to be an office, but we are focused in on a large white board on the wall, the names of various Raw superstars scribbled on the board in marker pen, with pictures of said superstars stuck to the board nearby. The camera pans to reveal a large table, and sat square in the middle is none other than Mr. McMahon, leafing through a set of papers held inside a folder. To his left sits the man previously identified as John Laurinaitis, the Vice President of Talent Relations, while to his right, Shane McMahon has his eyes focused on a laptop screen, while Brooke Adams sits with pen in her hand, ready to take notes. Vince lets out a sigh and tosses the folder down onto the table, pursing his lips, pondering his next move in what can only be described as an NFL draft war room type setting…

Mr. McMahon: So... John Cena's planning to announce the second member of his team tonight, huh? Well I wanna beat 'im to the punch. I want us to start as we mean to go on. I want us to get our first two guys announced before Cena gets the chance. I wanna put him under a bit of pressure. Make 'im realise that we mean business here.

Vince scans the table, with everyone nodding their head in agreement...

Mr. McMahon: Now you're all here because I trust you to help me make the right decisions here. I trust your instincts, I trust your judgment, but above all that... you've all shown me a great deal of loyalty these last few weeks. And that's somethin' I won't forget when we win War Games and I take back control of Monday Night Raw.

Again it's nods from the table, this time of an appreciative nature, with Vince now turning towards Laurinaitis...

Mr. McMahon: Now, John, you're my Vice President of Talent Relations. You're the guy who knows this roster better than anybody, you know these guys inside and out, and you know who's gonna be on board with me on this.

Nervously Laurinaitis takes a sip of water, realising the pressure of getting the right men signed up for Team Vince…

Mr. McMahon: Now obviously Bobby Lashley is gonna be my team captain. But... I want us to come to a decision on a second member in the next hour or so. Let's come to a decision and let's get that name out there before Cena has his match tonight. So John, who have ya' got for me?

Slightly nervous, Laurinaitis fumbles a few more folders, looking through them until he finds the right one...

John Laurinaitis: Uh, well Mr. McMahon... I've got a few names in mind. Now, Shane and myself have read all the reports, we've crunched all the numbers, we've scouted the guys who we think are gonna want to be on your team... and we think we can put together a squad more than capable of destroying any team John Cena can put together.

Vince smiles, reflecting on the good news...

Mr. McMahon: Good. Yeah, I like the sound of that. So who's first? C'mon, gimme a name.

Looking up from the folder, Laurinaitis looks across the table at Shane, the younger McMahon nodding and motioning for John to pass their choice on to his father...

John Laurinaitis: Well... if you're lookin' to make a big splash with this first pick... then we were thinkin' this guy would be a great choice.

Laurinaitis now slides the folder he was looking through towards Vince, the camera unable to see any of the information contained within it. Vince picks up the folder and scans the page, his eyes lighting up, obviously intrigued by what he's reading...

Mr. McMahon: Do we know if he's on board with us yet? I mean, this guy's a bit of a loner. He tends to do his own thing.

Vince turns to both Shane and Laurinaitis, with his son responding with a confident smirk...

Shane McMahon: I'm sure with a little gentle persuasion he'll sign up.

And now it’s Vince who smirks, delighted to hear that…

Mr. McMahon: Good. Alright, Ms. Adams could you send out a memo please? I'd like to speak to this gentlemen.

Vince now passes the folder to Brooke, who takes a look at it and then starts scribbling on her pad of paper...

Mr. McMahon: Let's see Cena try and top that!

John Laurinaitis: Not a chance, sir!

And now that evil smirk of Vince is on full display as he chuckles to himself...

Mr. McMahon: Y'know... I'm startin' to get a very good feelin' about this, fellas.

Again Shane and Laurinaitis nod along with their boss, the Team Vince camp having come to their first decision, and it's clearly one their all pleased with as we cut elsewhere.

To see Todd Grisham standing by, ready to conduct and interview...


Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time... he is the Intercontinental Champion... Kenny Dykstra.

Plenty of heat as Kenny Dykstra and Torrie Wilson step into the shot, both looking pretty angry and annoyed, especially Dykstra who almost looks offended by the fact that he's stood infront of Grisham for the second week in a row...

Todd Grisham: Kenny, tonight you're set to compete in a King of the Ring qualifier against Harry Smith, but before we get to that, I'd like to ask you about your altercation last week with-

Kenny Dykstra: What did I tell you last week, Grisham? Huh? What did I specifically say you were NOT allowed to talk to me about? I made it perfectly clear, no more questions about Carlito! But I knew you wouldn't listen to me. And that's why I had my attorney draw up this statement.

Dykstra reaches back and is handed a piece of paper by Torrie, which he then firmly thrusts against Grisham's chest...

Kenny Dykstra: Read it.

Looking confused and dishevelled, Grisham grabs the paper and takes a quick scan of it, flashing Dykstra a look of disbelief...

Todd Grisham: You can't be serious. I mean-

Kenny Dykstra: I said read it!

Grisham shakes his head and lets out a sigh, then he clears his throat and rather reluctantly starts to read...

Todd Grisham: Due to the recent attack on my clients by the named Mr. Carlito Colon, my clients Mr. Dykstra and Ms. Wilson have sought a restraining order against Mr. Colon in a court of law. My clients feel that Mr. Colon is nothing more than a lover scorned, and his physical attacks on them must cease and desist immediately. Furthermore, my clients have brought forward a court action against the WWE for the failure to provide a safe working environment. As the Intercontinental Champion, Mr. Dykstra faces enormous pressure in his day to day life, and feels that the strain of knowing he could be assaulted at any time by Ms. Wilson's jealous ex is effecting his ability to perform in the ring. Therefore, Mr. Dykstra has hired himself a bodyguard, whose salary shall be met in full by the WWE until such time as Mr. Dykstra feels no longer threatened by Mr. Colon's presence.

Grisham folds up the paper and gives Dykstra a confused look...

Todd Grisham: A bodyguard? You... you hired a bodyguard?

And right on cue, a smug Dykstra snaps his fingers and motions for someone off camera to approach... and in walks the hulking figure of a man dressed in a suit, broad shoulders, a bald head and a mean scowl on his face. This man stands over Grisham, intimidating the announcer, but Dykstra pats him on the shoulder and motions for him to take a step back...

Kenny Dykstra: This is Ezekiel Jackson, a guy I had to hire for protection. Not for me, though. Carlito doesn't scare me. I hired him to protect my poor, sweet, innocent Torrie.

Torrie blushes as Dykstra gives her a playful little jab on the cheek, the two sharing a moment as they stare lovingly at each other, before Dykstra turns to face the camera...

Kenny Dykstra: So Carlito, you listen up... and you listen good.

With his eyes piercing the camera, Dykstra emphatically points a finger down the lens...

Kenny Dykstra: I... am finished... with you. There is nothin'... and I mean, nothin' you can do to get another shot at my title. You had a shot at WrestleMania... and you had another shot at Backlash... and I'm still standing here as the Intercontinental Champion. And that's all the chances you're gonna get.

And now Dykstra turns to look at Grisham...

Kenny Dykstra: And you listen too, Todd... if you ask me one, just one more question about Carlito... I'm gonna set 'Big Zeke' here on ya'. And you don't want that... believe me.

Grisham looks over Dykstra's shoulder at Jackson, the big man cracking his knuckles into his hand, causing Grisham to gulp...

Kenny Dykstra: If you'll excuse me... I've got a crown to go win.

Having said his piece, Dykstra walks off the set, with Torrie following close behind, a wicked smile on her face as she revels in the fear in Grisham's eyes as once again Ezekiel looks down on him menacingly, snarling at the interview before he too makes his exit. Grisham breathes a sigh of relief, loosening his tie from around his collar and wiping the sweat from his brow as we head back into the arena.

To see that Super Crazy is already in the ring, his music playing out, a slight pop from the fans as he's announce by Lilian Garcia, one which Crazy recognises with a wave. As his music comes to an end, we then hear...

*WORLD'S GREATEST...*

A pretty solid outpouring of heat as The World's Greatest Tag Team emerge, with both Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas dressed in white tracksuits, even though it's only Benjamin who is in action right now. The pair hit the ring and raise their titles high in the air, before Benjamin rips off his tracksuit and readies himself for the match...


Jim Ross: What a ridiculous notion from Kenny Dykstra. Hirin' a bodyguard? Really? That's what that kid decides to do after the way he and Torrie have treated Carlito these past few months?

Joey Styles: Well, Dykstra said he hired this Ezekiel Jackson for protection, and after the beatin' he took from Carlito last week, I can't really blame 'im! But right now, we've gotta focus on the first of our three King of the Ring qualifiers. Super Crazy is takin' on Shelton Benjamin, a guy who I think has a great chance of goin' all the way and becomin' King of the Ring.

Jerry Lawler: I think both Benjamin and Charlie Haas are gonna do well this year. That's two guys I definitely wanna avoid at Saturday Night's Main Event.

Jim Ross: I take it you're feelin' pretty confident ahead of your match with Chris Masters tonight, 'King'?

Jerry Lawler: Oh boy, I can't wait! It's the King of the Ring, how can ya' not be excited about it!?

Match 1: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
Shelton Benjamin
w/ Charlie Haas vs. Super Crazy

Seeing as we haven't seen much of Crazy lately, Benjamin is understandably a bit arrogant as the match starts,and it shows as from the first tie up, Benjamin takes Crazy down with a waistlock takedown and then delivers a few cheap slaps to the back of the head, drawing the ire of the crowd. Again the pair tie up, but this time Super gets Benjamin in a headlock, only for Shelton to shoves Crazy into the ropes... then avoid him with a leapfrog... but when he tries the move a second time, Crazy puts on the breaks... and smashes Shelton with a big right hand! Crazy now goes to work, landing kicks to the midsection, before he winds up for the Irish whip... into a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker! Here's a cover... Shelton kicks out at two. Looking to stay in control, Super yanks Benjamin to the corner and lays in with right hands to the face, before he looks to fire Shelton across and follow in... but Benjamin uses the ropes to elevtate himself and avoid Crazy. Super puts on the breaks before he hits the turnbuckle and turns... Shelton swings a clothesline... Super ducks underneath and heads for the ropes... springboard crossbody! Another cover... 1... 2... Benjamin kicks out again. It's all Crazy right now, and he looks to press this home by hooking Shelton up for a suplex... but Benjamin lands on his feet behind Super, and runs him to the ropes for a rollup... but Super hangs on! Benjamin rolls back, but is straight back on his feet... to catch the onrushing Super Crazy with a beautiful northern lights suplex! 1... 2... Crazy kicks out, but Benjamin pounces, jumping on Crazy to keep him grounded, then laying in with a flurry of wild forearms to the back of the head.

Back on his feet, Shelton lays in with stomps to the chest, before he yanks Super up and fires him off the ropes... into a Samoan drop! Another cover... another kick out by Super Crazy at two. Shelton now looks to wear Crazy down as he locks on a grounded headlock, wrenching on the neck, trying his best to make Crazy fade. The crowd try to rally Crazy back into the match, and after a while, he manages to struggle back to his feet, drilling elbows to the midsection in an attempt to break the hold... then he swings a right hand... Benjamin ducks... and sends Super flying from behind with a release German suplex! Benjamin hooks the leg... 1... 2... another kick out! Frustration gets the better of Benjamin as he slaps the canvas, but now he stands and waits as Super crawls to the corner then drags himself up... prompting Benjamin to charge... SHELTON SPLASH... NO! Crazy dives to safety... and Benjamin smacks off the turnbuckle! Now Super Crazy goes on the attack, nailing right after right before he fires Benjamin off the ropes... huge back body drop! Here's a cover... 1... 2... Shelton kicks out. Super is in control now, and as Shelton stumbles to the corner, Crazy follows him in and climbs to the second rope, cocking his fist... and then raining down on Shelton with stiff right hands! The crowd counts along, but when Super reaches nine, he stops and turns to the fans, building suspense before he lands the big number ten... only for Shelton to grab Crazy by the legs... and drop him face first off the top turnbuckle! A nasty landing for Crazy, and as he staggers towards the centre of the ring, Benjamin makes his move... hooking Crazy up... T-BONE SUPLEX!! Benjamin plants Crazy into the canvas, and hooks the leg for the 1... 2... 3.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin @ 04.07

A convincing win for Benjamin as he comfortably puts Super Crazy away. Quickly back on his feet, Benjamin and Haas share a quick high five, before Haas raises Shelton's hand in victory, the two looking very happy with themselves as we head for a commercial.

*Commercial*

And we're back, and it's to the smiling face of Maria, ready for another interview...


Maria: Hi everyone! I'm Maria. Welcome back to Monday Night Raw! And please welcome my guests at this time... Chris Masters... and Melina.

Stepping into the shot come Chris Masters and Melina to some pretty decent heat from the crowd, with Masters flexing his arms while Melina stares intently at Maria...

Maria: Guys, last week the two of you attacked Johnny Nitro after your match with The Hart Legacy, with you Chris locking Johnny in the masterlock, and then you Melina slapped him across the face. I guess that means you're partnership is over. Do you two have any comment on what happened last week?

Both Masters and Melina turn to each other and share a smirk, before Masters pulls the mic towards him...

Chris Masters: Last week was months and months of frustration finally comin' to a head. Y'know, I'll admit, when me and Melina first spoke all those months ago about me and Johnny becomin' a team, the two of us were stuck in a rut. We didn't win all that often, and I honestly thought it would be the best thing for me and Johnny to team up and get back to winnin' ways. But lately?

Masters screws up his face and shakes his head...

Chris Masters: Lately I've been the one doin' all the work while Johnny stares at the lights. Time and time again he cost us matches, time and time again it was Johnny gettin' pinned. And quite frankly... I just had enough of it.

And now Melina takes over...

Melina: I warned Johnny last week not to disappoint me again, and guess what? That's exactly what he did. Y'see, me and Chris, we're winners in life. I mean, look at us. We're young, good looking, successful. We get invited to all the right parties with all the right people. Johnny?

Melina scoffs...

Melina: He was only ever successful because of me. I made MNM. I put that team together, I took two nobodies and I gave them the Hollywood lifestyle and I made them stars. Then I brought Johnny to Monday Night Raw, and I made him an even bigger star. Y'think Johnny would've ever been Intercontinental Champion without my help?

Melina glares at Maria and shakes her head...

Melina: Not a chance. But i just got so sick and tired of him gettin' beat all the time, and then moping around the place, feelin' sorry for himself. To be honest with you... it was pathetic.

Masters lets out a quick laugh in the background...

Melina: So last Monday, Chris and I decided to give Johnny one last chance. One last chance to prove he deserved to be with us. And just like he always did... he let me down. And that's why he why we did what we did. Johnny's bad attitude was just holdin' us back. And now I'm gonna do for Chris what I did for Johnny... and make him a star. And it all starts with the King of the Ring.

Turning to Masters, Melina runs a head across Masters' shoulder, with Masters again flexing his arms towards the camera, before Melina turns back to speak again...

Melina: As for Johnny... let's face it... he's finished. He can't win a match, and I'm pretty sure he's gonna be too depressed and embarrassed to ever show his face around here again. I think it's safe to say... that you'll never see Johnny Nitro compete in a WWE ring... ever again.

With one final smirk, Melina turns and makes her exit, with Masters following to a few boos, Maria watching them go, a concerned look on her face as we head back into the arena.

And we hear...

*HART BEAT...*

That famous guitar rift rips through the arena, and out walk The Hart Legacy, with Harry Smith, the man in action tonight, leading out his stablemates Tyson Kidd and Natalya Niedhart, the young trio slapping hands with the ringside fans before they enter the ring...


Jim Ross: Certainly some strong words from Chris Masters and Melina, but of course, for Masters to become King of the Ring, he's gonna have to get past our very own Jerry 'The King' Lawler later on tonight. But right now, we've got another King of the Ring qualifier featuring two of the young guns here on Raw. And what an impressive few months it has been for that young man, Harry Smith, and The Hart Legacy.

Joey Styles: Oh absolutely. Harry Smith and Tyson Kidd have set the tag team division on fire with their blend of speed and power, but now it's a chance for Smith to impress in singles action. Obviously this is Harry's first King of the Ring tournament, but his father, the late, great Davey Boy Smith, 'The British Bulldog', he appeared at the King of the Ring pay per view back in 1996, where he almost became WWE Champion in a great matchup with Shawn Michaels.

Jerry Lawler: Well Harry's father was a great Intercontinental Champion, a great WWE Tag Team Champion, but I think Harry's got the potential to be even better than his dad and go one further by becomin' King of the Ring, and then one day maybe even WWE Champion.

*IN THE MIDDLE OF IT NOW...*

Looking even more cocky than usual due to his added backup, Kenny Dykstra walks out onto the stage arm in arm with Torrie Wilson, the two pointing down at the ring and laughing, with the previously introduced Ezekiel Jackson bringing up the rear...


Jim Ross: He's the Intercontinental Champion, he's an unbelievable athlete, but for my money, this kid's duckin' the challenge of Carlito, and I think he's runnin' scared. He's used every trick in the book to save his title, and I think he knows that if he steps into the ring with Dykstra for a third time, his luck's gonna run out and he's gonna lose that title.

Jerry Lawler: I think you're absolutely right. I think that if somehow, someway, Carlito can a match where Torrie, and I guess this Ezekiel too now, aren't at ringside, if he could get a fair shot at it, we'd have a new Intercontinental Champion. I just don't know what it's gonna take for 'Lito to get that opportunity.

Joey Styles: I'm sure Dykstra is gonna have one eye lookin' over his shoulder during this match for Carlito, and maybe that's something Harry Smith can take advantage of. But then again, I suppose that's why Dykstra has Jackson out here, to watch his back. This one could really go either way...

Match 2: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra w/ Torrie Wilson and Ezekiel Jackson vs. Harry Smith w/ Tyson Kidd and Natalya Niedhart

As the bell rings, Smith is naturally wary of the massive Ezekiel at ringside, but as he and Dykstra tie up, Smith shows he has a clear power advantage as he shoves Dykstra down to the canvas in the corner. Grabbing the ropes, Dykstra yells at the ref and tells him to order Smith to back away, Harry giving Dykstra plenty of space as the Intercontinental Champion returns to a vertical base. Again the two tie up, this time Dykstra wrings on the arm… but Smith twists into an arm wringer of his own, then drives his shoulder into Dykstra’s, knocking Dykstra against the ropes, where he again yells for a break. Smith has no option but to let go, and as Dykstra steps back to the centre, it looks like the pair will tie up for a third time… only for Dykstra to drill a kick to the midsection… no! Smith catches it, spins Kenny around… then hammers him with a clothesline! The fight is on as Smith sends Kenny to the corner with punches and boots, before he goes for the Irish whip across and follows in… right into an elbow to the face! Smith stumbles back, Dykstra charging… right into a release overhead belly to belly suplex! Smith crawls over for the first cover of the match… but Dykstra kicks out at two. Dykstra scrambles to the safety of the corner, where Smith unloads with big uppercuts, before he then drives in a pair of shoulderthrusts to the midsection. Dykstra is then fired across the ring, and Smith races in after… corner clothesline… but Dykstra avoids it! Smith hits the turnbuckle hard, and as he stumbles backwards… Dykstra takes him down with a falling neckbreaker! Dykstra crawls over and hooks the leg… 1… 2… Smith kicks out.

Dykstra now looks to target the neck, dropping knees and elbows upon it, before he then aims stomps to the head and shoves Smith in a seated position against the ropes. More stomps to the head, then Dykstra drapes Smith’s throat across the second rope, sitting on him, choking Smith. Dykstra then comes off the ropes… and drives his body down across the back of Smith’s head, choking him once more. Dykstra continues to attack the neck, showing impressive strength as he scoop slams Smith then drops several elbows, before coming off the ropes for a snap legdrop for a near fall. More near falls follow as Dykstra connects with a dropkick and a swinging neckbreaker, before he yanks Smith up, tags him with right hands, then looks for an Irish whip off the ropes… but Smith reverses… then sends Dykstra flying with a back body drop! Smith grabs his neck in pain, but now he looks to build some momentum, snapping Dykstra’s head back with right hands, before he fires Kenny off the ropes and goes for a big boot… but Dykstra slides underneath, then nips back up… boot to the midsection doubles Smith over… allowing Dykstra to nail a legdrop bulldog! Dykstra rolls Smith over, hooks a leg… 1… 2… Smith kicks out! Dykstra slaps a hand off the mat in frustration, but soon he’s back on the attack, dragging Smith to his feet and sending him off the ropes… into a SLEEPER HOLD! Dykstra locks the hold on in the middle of the ring, squeezing, applying pressure, and slowly but surely, he manages to make Smith fade, with Smith dropping down to a knee, and then to a seated position. Dykstra has the hold locked on tight, but on the outside, Kidd and Natalya try to encourage the fans to make some noise, and Smith feeds off this as he battles back to his feet. Smith drills a pair of elbows, but Dykstra hangs onto the hold… forcing Smith to finally break it with a side suplex!

Both men are down, slow to get back to their feet, but when they do, Dykstra swings a right… Smith blocks it… and scores a right of his own! Again Dykstra swings… again Smith blocks and lands a right of his own! Smith now rattles off three in a row, before he fires Dykstra off the ropes… big boot to the face… then Smith comes off the ropes… big legdrop! Here’s a cover… 1… 2… Dykstra kicks out. Smith now goes on the attack, rocking Dykstra with uppercuts, before he again goes for the Irish whip… right into the powerslam! Another pinfall attempt… 1… 2… Dykstra rolls a shoulder! Smith is in control now, and he looks to press this home as he grabs Dykstra by the feet… then steps in, looking for the SHARPSHOOTER…NO! Dykstra desperately fights it, kicking and flailing his legs, managing to scramble to the ropes, where he kicks out and drills Smith in the midsection, doubling him over, which allows Dykstra to come off the ropes… SNAP SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Dykstra drapes an arm across Smith’s chest… 1… 2… Smith rolls a shoulder! Dykstra can’t believe it, sure he had the match won, but now he decides to climb to the top rope, readying himself… and then flying… SKY HIGH LEGDROP… NO! Smith rolls to safety, leaving Dykstra to crash to the canvas! Quickly back on his feet, Smith makes his move again… grabbing the feet, stepping, twisting… and sitting in for the SHARPSHOOTER… WAIT! Torrie Wilson is up on the apron! The referee spots Wilson and heads over to the side of the ring, ordering Wilson down, and the distraction is enough for Smith to release the hold… but here comes Natalya and Kidd… Natalya yanks Torrie from the apron! Torrie screams at Natalya, but quickly Ezekiel Jackson barges past Natalya… and hammers Tyson Kidd with a massive bodyblock! Kidd is totally wiped out, with Jackson doing what he’s paid to do, protect Torrie, while in the ring, Smith now sticks his head through the ropes and shouts at Torrie and Jackson… which means he doesn’t see Kenny get back on his feet behind him… and Dykstra sneaks up from behind… JUMPING STO!! Dykstra drives the back of Smith’s skull off the canvas, and then he hooks the leg… 1… 2… 3!

Winner: Kenny Dykstra @ 06.37

A strong win for Dykstra as he puts Smith away, the investment in bringing Ezekiel Jackson into the fold paying off with the way he destroyed Kidd on the floor. As 'Zeke' steps up onto the apron and holds the ropes open for Torrie, the trio are quickly reunited in the ring, Dykstra being handed the Intercontinental Title and raising it high in the air to celebrate his win... but the boos of the crowd quickly turn to cheers... as through the crowd comes... it's Carlito! 'Lito sides into the ring... and he clobbers Dykstra from behind! Carlito doesn't care about the numbers game, he just wants to get his hands on Dykstra as an all-out brawl breaks out between the two on the canvas, 'Lito swinging wild rights and lefts... only for Jackson to tackle 'Lito to the canvas! Carlito does his best to fight Jackson off, scratching and clawing to get his hands on Dykstra, but Dykstra quickly rolls from the ring and then he and Torrie escape over the barricade, the two racing away up the stairs of the stands.

Carlito and Jackson continue to brawl, with Jackson getting the better of things, keeping 'Lito down with massive right hands, before he yanks himself up and starts laying with boots to the chest. Dykstra and Torrie come to a stop just infront of an exit, and now Dykstra likes what he's sees, watching as Jackson lays in with more stomps. Dykstra is liking it so much that he even takes a few steps back towards the ring to get a piece of the action as Jackson now hoists Carlito up and looks for an Irish whip off the ropes... but 'Lito avoids his bodyblock with a baseball... then nips back up... BACKSTABBER!! Carlito puts down Dykstra's hired goon, and now he scans the crowd... spots Dykstra... and the chase is on again! Carlito dives through the ropes, leaps over the barricade... and starts sprinting through the masses and up the stairs! Dykstra and Torrie quickly make their exit out of the arena into the concourse, but Carlito shows how desperate and determined he is to get his hands on Kenny and the Intercontinental Title, as he's still chasing after Dykstra as we head to a commercial.

*Commercial*

We return to see all three members of The Hart Legacy walking along a backstage corridor, with Harry Smith being supported by Natalya Niedhart as he grimaces in pain and holds the back of his neck, while Tyson Kidd clutches his ribs and coughs in pain. Suddenly the three come to a stop, and the reason is soon revealed, as the camera pans... to show us that The World's Greatest Tag Team are stood infront of them. Leaning against some storage units, Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin both have wide smirks on their faces, with Haas even laughing to himself, before the pair push themselves off the unit and walk towards the young trio...


Harry Smith: What the hell do you guys want?

Shelton is taken aback almost by the sternness of Smith's words, turning to Haas with surprised look on his face as they two share a quick laugh together...

Shelton Benjamin: Whoa, hey... relax junior. We just wanted to say that was bad luck out there, man.

Smith, Kidd and Niedhart all turn to look at each other, nobody buying Benjamin's words...

Shelton Benjamin: No, hey, really, you were unlucky, Harry. I mean, me and my match earlier, I didn't need luck to advance in the King of the Ring. I just went out there and got the job done. But with you guys bein' so young and inexperienced... you need a bit o' luck every now and then.

Annoyed by that last remark, Smith takes his arm from around Natalya's shoulder and steps forward to square up to Benjamin, but Haas quickly cuts in and speaks straight at Kidd...

Charlie Haas; But lemme tell ya' somethin'. Next week when it's me and you, Tyson, one on one... luck ain't gonna cut it. Harry's already been knocked out of the tournament, and next week... I'm endin' any interest you two might have had in becomin' King.

Heat from inside the arena, with Shelton now looking at Harry with a arrogant smirk on his face...

Shelton Benjamin: And just like how we've been dominatin' the tag division... we're gonna do the exact same thing, and dominate this tournament too.

The champs turn to each other with smiles then look to turn and walk away, but Natalya calls them back...

Natalya Niedhart: Don't be so sure about that, guys.

Almost insulted, Benjamin removes his sunglasses and looks down on Natalya, while Tyson steps forward and gets in Haas' face...

Tyson Kidd: You guys might be champions for now, but you've never stepped into the ring with us... and that means you've never stepped into the ring with me, Charlie. And sooner or later, we're gonna come after you guys and those titles. And when we do...

Kidd glances at the title slung over Haas' shoulder, then looks him dead in the eye and says...

Tyson Kidd: You're the guys that are gonna need more than Lady Luck in their corner.

Pop from the fans, with even Haas and Benjamin feeling slightly intimidated by the serious look in Kidd's eyes. Warily, Benjamin taps his partner on the shoulder and starts to leave...

Shelton Benjamin: C'mon man, let's get outta here. We'll see you two next week.

Haas hangs around for a few seconds more, he and Kidd staring each other down, before he turns and follows Benjamin off screen. Tyson turns back towards Harry and Natalya, with Harry again receiving some support from his teammates as the three make their exit and we cut away.

We go straight back into the arena to hear...

*GLAMAZON...*

A pretty decent level of heat as the Women's Champion Beth Phoenix emerges, holding her title high in the air for all to see, accompanied as always by Victoria, who every now and then has a rather subtle glance up at the gold. As Victoria slides under the bottom rope, Beth performs her usual entrance of climbing to the top turnbuckle, again raising her title high in the air, before she backflips into the ring...


Jim Ross: I think that moment between The World's Greatest Tag Team and The Hart Legacy shows exactly what this King of the Ring tournament means to the competitors involved. So much tension, so much aggression on display, and that promises to be a great matchup next week between Charlie Haas and Tyson Kidd.

Joey Styles: It certainly does, but right now, here comes 'The Glamazon', Beth Phoenix, who of course became Women's Champion at Backlash. Beth saw off both the champion Mickie James, and her friend Victoria in a Triple Threat Match, and we haven't seen Mickie since.

Jerry Lawler: Right, and last week, Beth made an open challenge for this evening for any diva to challenge her for the Women's Title... aslong as it wasn't Mickie James, of course. I'm sure Mickie's at home right now, preparin' herself to come back and challenge for the title again, and when she does, I don't think Beth's gonna know what's hit her.

In the ring, Beth points Victoria towards the corner, telling her to get a mic, and after a brief shake of the head in annoyance, Victoria obliges, receiving the mic from Garcia and then handing it over. Beth gives Victoria a confused look, quietly asking “What's wrong with you?”, before she shakes her head and motions for Victoria to stand aside so she can have the spotlight...

Beth Phoenix: Last week, I told Mickie James that if she knew what was good for her, she'd stay as far away from Monday Night Raw as she possibly could. And seeing as I haven't seen or heard from Mickie all day... I guess she decided to listen.

Heat from the fans, with Beth turning towards Victoria and smilling, but Victoria gives her a rather fake smile back...

Beth Phoenix: Mickie if you're watching this... well done. You finally managed to do something right. You just stay at home, sat on your sofa, and let a real Women's Champion have her moment.

More heat, but Phoenix wastes no time in continuing...

Beth Phoenix: But also last week, I issued an open challenge for any diva to come out here and challenge me for my Women's Title. So ladies... here I am.

Turning towards the entrance way, Beth stands with her arms open wide...

Beth Phoenix: Let's see who was brave enough... or stupid enough... to accept my challenge.

The crowd start to chant “Mickie! Mickie! Mickie!”, something at which Beth simply laughs and shakes her head at, choosing to ignore the pleas of the crowd...

Beth Phoenix: Come on, I haven't got all night. Who is it?

It's gonna be Mickie, isn't it?

“Mickie! Mickie! Mickie!”

Well...

*WHAT LOVE IS...*

A slight feeling of disappointment, but a cheer nonetheless as Candice Michelle answers the call, stepping out into the arena and heading for the ring, with Beth almost breathing a sigh of relief...


Jim Ross: Well it seems that it's gonna be Candice Michelle who's gonna step up and take on the challenge of the champion. Candice has never been WWE Women's Champion, what a great opportunity for her to do so right here.

Jerry Lawler: It's definitly a great opportunity for Candice Michelle, but I think these fans made it clear who they wanted to see. They wanted Mickie James!

Joey Styles: We know Mickie's sat at home, probably still trying to come to terms with the fact that her former best friend just took the Women's Title away from here... but surely if Mickie James is watching this tonight, she's gotta realise that the fans wanna see her and Beth Phoenix go at it for the title again.

Match 3: Women's Championship Match
Women's Champion Beth Phoenix w/ Victoria vs. Candice Michelle

As the bell rings, Phoenix shows a sign of arrogance as she points at Candice, laughing and shaking her head, mouthing “Is that it?”, before the two snap into a collar and elbow tie up. Beth shows he dominance as she wrenches Candice into a standing side headlock, then uses that for a takedown, before she floats over for a seated reverses chinlock. Beth laughs again as she wrenches on the hold, but Candice struggles back to her feet, trying to break the hold with shots to the midsection… only for Beth to grab a handful of hair… and smash Candice head first off the canvas! A painful impact for Michelle, but as she crawls to the corner, she catches Beth by surprise, grabbing her by the tights and yanking Beth face first into the middle turnbuckle. Looking to take advantage of this, Candice drills a boot to the midsection, then hooks Beth up and heads for the corner… looking for a springboard bulldog… but Beth shows incredible strength... then counters in mid-air with a side suplex! Showing her annoyance, Beth mounts Candice and hammers her with right hands, before she goes for a cover… but Candice kicks out at two. Beth now drags Candice up, synchs her in and takes her up and over into a modified torture rack. Beth presses down on Candice’s chin and legs, applying pressure to the spine, trying to make Candice submit.

Beth squeezes on the hold, but Candice does her best to fight free, kicking and flailing her body, and eventually she’s able to counter… turning the torture rack into the Candylicous! Candice locks on a submission move of her own, and now it’s the champion who’s in trouble, desperately trying to escape… but Beth again shows impressive strength as she grabs Candice and violently throws her around… but Candice counters and takes Beth down with a sunset flip! 1… 2… Beth kicks out. Now Candice goes on the attack, striking with kicks to the legs and forearms to the face, before a spinning heel kick knocks the champion down. Candice now climbs to the outside and heads upstairs, waiting for Beth to rise… FLYING CROSSBODY! Here’s the pinfall… 1… 2… Phoenix barely kicks out! Michelle now has some momentum, and she looks to press this home as the champion is sent to the ropes with the Irish whip… into a spinning wheel kick! Candice bursts back to her feet, calling for the champion to rise… and then she charges… into a tilt-a-whirl headscissor takedown… but Beth hangs on… then drops Candice with a sitout facebuster! A painful landing for Candice, but after shaking off the cobwebs, Beth makes her move, yanking Candice up, hooking her arms… then taking the challenger up and down… GLAM SLAM!! Candice is planted to the mat, with Beth floating over to get the 1… 2… 3.

Winner: And STILL Women's Champion, Beth Phoenix @ 04.28

Phoenix gets the win, retaining her title in the process, although she certainly got a scare as Candice came close to victory on a few occasions. Back on her feet, Beth snatches her title away from the referee, giving a hug and squeezing it tight, before she demands that her hand is raised in victory. Phoenix now points for Victoria to get the microphone again, which she does, handing it over to the champion, who despite breathing heavily, clearly has something to say...


Beth Phoenix: I... I just wanna say to all the divas here on Raw... that that is exactly what's gonna happen to you if you step into the ring with me.

The referee now drops down to check on Candice, the challenger grabbing her lower back in pain, trying to crawl towards the ropes to leave the ring...

Beth Phoenix: This isn't the Mickie James' time anymore. This is MY time, and this is a new era for women's wrestling. This is the era of 'The Glamazon'!

The ref encourages Candice to stay still, motioning to the back that Candice needs help, a fact Beth notices... and then it seems like the lightbulb goes off in her head as she comes up with an idea...

Beth Phoenix: And Mickie, you better stay away, 'cause if you don't... infact, why don't we show Mickie what's gonna happen if she comes back? Victoria! I want you to make Candice here suffer!

Initially not sure about it, Victoria looks slightly confused, but when Beth points down and shouts “Hurt her! Make her cry!”, Victoria gets the idea, bending down, hooking her arms under Candice's chin and wrenching back with a bridging reverse chinlock. The hold applies all kinds of pressure to the neck and back that Beth targeted during the match, so much so that Candice groans and screams in agony, a sight that Phoenix rather disturbingly takes delight in...

Beth Phoenix: Yeah! Yeah, that's it! Make her cry! Cry for me, Candice, cry!

Phoenix now drops down next to Candice's face, holding the microphone under her mouth, letting us all hear the pain and misery that Candice is going through...

Beth Phoenix: C'mon, Candice! Cry!

Candice begs for mercy, over and over again shouting “Please! Stop!”, but it's no good as Beth continues to shout for Victoria to apply more pressure, a desperate Candice struggling to breathe through the tears running down her face, until finally Victoria decides enough is enough and breaks the hold.

Beth isn't exactly happy about this, wanting Candice to suffer more, but as the beaten challenger writhes on the mat in agony, she decides to let it go, instead turning to look down the hard camera...


Beth Phoenix: It might have been Candice tonight, but if you ever show your face around here again, Mickie... that's gonna be you in Candice's place.

*GLAMAZON...*

A disturbing moment, one which even Victoria felt was too much, but the victorious champion doesn't care, revelling in the boos of the crowd before she motions for she and Victoria to leave. Phoenix exits the ring without a second glance at Candice, but Victoria stands over Candice, looking down on her, feeling almost sorry for her, and as she follows Beth up the ramp, the look of annoyance is clear for all to see as Victoria's eyes are trained dead on the champions back while we go to a commercial.

*Commercial*

We return, straight back into the arena for...

*ONE OF A KIND...*

The crowd erupts with a huge pop as the WWE Champion Rob Van Dam strides out onto the stage. Looking as confident as ever, Van Dam leads the crowd through a rendition of a “ROB – VAN – DAM!” chant before he heads down the ramp to the ring…


Jim Ross: What better way to welcome everybody back to Monday Night Raw than with the WWE Champion himself, Rob Van Dam! Last week, we saw Van Dam take on the newcomer Claudio Cesaro in his WWE debut, and ‘RVD’ had the match well in hand and was just seconds from putting Cesaro away, only for Shawn Michaels to make his presence felt, and the distraction cost Van Dam as Cesaro walked away with a countout victory.

Jerry Lawler: And he hasn’t shut up about it since! I know we all heard Cesaro say earlier that he wants another shot at ‘RVD’, well I’m pretty sure Van Dam wants another shot at Cesaro just as badly.

Joey Styles: You better believe it, ‘King’! I spoke with Rob earlier today, and he was already pretty angry about suffering that countout defeat. I can’t imagine what he’s feelin’ now after hearin’ what Cesaro had to say earlier, but I’m sure he’ll be lookin’ to take it out on Mike Knox and The ******* Wrecking Crew in this matchup.

*THIS FIRE BURNS…*

And another strong cheer as The Straight Edge Saints step out, with CM Punk and Nick Dinsmore firing up the crowd, before Punk crouches down, taps the imaginary watch on his wrist, holds it against the ear of Kelly Kelly before the trio shout out “It's clobberin' time!” and then head down the ramp...


Joey Styles: They're one of the most exciting young teams here on Raw, they're both entered in the 2007 King of the Ring, but tonight, revenge is on the minds of CM Punk and Nick Dinsmore after the beating they received at the hands of Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch last week.

Jim Ross: It was a great performance by CM Punk as he put Murdoch away and advanced to the next round of the King of the Ring, only for Cade and Murdoch to jump Punk and Dinsmore as they celebrated. I know these two are hungry to make amends for that right here, and next week as Nick Dinsmore takes on Lance Cade in another King of the Ring qualifier.

Jerry Lawler: Yeah but tonight, what an opportunity for these two guys to team up with the WWE Champion. I know they're gonna be excited, but there's gonna be some nerves in there too. Let's see if these two are inspired by the added pressure, or if it gets to 'em and affects their performance.

*SWEET ‘N’ SOUR…*

The country tune is greeted with heat as The ******* Wrecking Crew stomp out onto the stage, with both Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch snarling at the fans, before their eyes see Punk and Dinsmore, which prompts the two to point and chuckle, clearly reminiscing about the beating they gave out last week...


Jim Ross: They are two big, tough, angry ********, who will come at ya' with nothin' more than bowling shoe ugly offence. These two like nothin' better than when it all breaks down into a brawl, and bah gawd, they fancy their chances in a fight with anybody.

Joey Styles: Last week we heard from Cade and Murdoch that they weren't gonna be embarrassed anymore, that they were goin' back to what they did best, and that's beatin' people up. And I think it's safe to say that when they left the arena last week, nobody thought they'd embarrassed themselves.

Jerry Lawler: Oh absolutely not. CM Punk might have won that match last week, but he certainly didn't look like a winner when it was all over. And I'm sure they'll be lookin' for Lance Cade to do somethin' similar to Nick Dinsmore when they meet next week.

*DEATH GRIP…*

And finally, the always intimidating Mike Knox makes his entrance, that deranged look in his eyes and a menacing sneer on his face as he wastes no time in striding down the ramp and into the ring, barely even acknowledging the fans at ringside...


Jerry Lawler: Well, you talk about guys who like nothin' better than to beat people up, what about this guy. Mike Knox is a scary lookin' guy, he's done plenty of damage in the past, and he's gotta be pretty ticked off right now after losin' his King of the Ring qualifier to Carlito last week.

Jim Ross: I think back to the punishment he gave CM Punk a few months ago, the battles he and Punk had over Kelly Kelly, where Knox really did a number on Punk. Such a dangerous athlete is Knox, and he's presented with a huge opportunity right here to step into the ring with the WWE Champion.

Joey Styles: There's always been somethin' slightly strange about this guy, but ever since his break up from Kelly Kelly, the guy's startin' to go over the edge. I think he might even intimidate Cade and Murdoch during this match, and they're on the same team! Knox can do a ton of damage, and that's somethin' 'RVD' is gonna have to be very careful about.

Match 4: Six Man Tag Team Match
WWE Champion Rob Van Dam and The Straight Edge Saints w/ Kelly Kelly vs. Mike Knox and The ******* Wrecking Crew

‘RVD’ is the natural choice to start for his team, and he steps into the ring opposite Lance Cade, and from the first tie up, the big Texan catches Van Dam by surprise with a big knee to the gut, following with a pair of forearms to the back of the head. Shoving Van Dam to the corner, Cade rears back and lights him up with a trio of stinging chops to the chest, but the third chop seems to spark 'RVD' to life, as the WWE Champion comes firing out of the corner with right hands, backing Cade to the ropes, where Van Dam sends him for the ride... into a spinning heel kick! Cade is right back up, but is knocked down again with a clothesline. Again Cade is up, charging at Van Dam... but 'RVD' ducks a clothesline... then plants Cade with a release German suplex! Cade is down by the ropes, in perfect position, and here comes Van Dam... ROLLING THUNDER! Van Dam gets all of the senton, but he quickly moves to come off the ropes again... only for Murdoch to drill a knee into the spine of the champion! 'RVD' puts on the breaks... then sends Murdoch flying from the apron with a jumping roundhouse... but when he turns back to Cade... Cade plants the champion with a scoop slam! Backing up, Cade lines up for a jumping elbow drop... but 'RVD' rolls to safety... Cade crashes to the mat... and now Van Dam tags in CM Punk! Punk slingshots into the ring and starts unloading with kicks to the legs that backs Cade to the corner, where Punk starts laying in with repeated elbows to the chest, then he goes for the Irish whip across... but Cade reverses and follows in... right into a boot to the face! Cade stumbles to the ropes, where he's subjected to more kicks to the thighs, then Punk fires him off the opposite side... where Trevor Murdoch makes a blind tag... Punk lowers his head for a back body drop... but Cade clubs him with a forearm to the back of the head, then takes Punk up and down with an inverted atomic drop... allowing Murdoch to come off the ropes and level Punk with a massive boot to the face!

Punk's head violently smacks off the canvas, and Murdoch moves to take advantage of this, mounting Punk to hammer him with a flurry of right hands, before he then drops a pair of double axe handles on Punk's neck. Knox gets the tag, with Murdoch holding Punk in place, which allows Knox to drill a few boots to the midsection. Knox delivers plenty of high impact, smacking massive rights to the face, then he fires Punk off the ropes... into a big time back body drop! The heels now look to isolate Punk from his corner, with Murdoch getting a quick tag, and he continues to target the neck with another pair of forearms... but Punk fires back with a kick to the thigh! Right hand from Murdoch... another kick from Punk... right... kick... right... kick... until Murdoch drills a knee to the midsection... then takes Punk up and down with a scoop slam! Cade gets the tag, and he Murdoch again show off the double team prowess, with Murdoch hitting a jawbreaker... which Cade transitions into a falling neckbreaker, gaining a near fall. Knox comes back in, the heavy hitting continuing, until he fires Punk off the ropes and looks for a bodyblock... but Punk avoids it with a baseball slide, then nips back up... and smacks Knox with an enzuigiri! Both men are down, but Punk staggers to his corner... and tags in Dinsmore! Dinsmore storms into the ring and unloads with big right hands to Knox, backing him to the ropes, where he goes for an Irish whip... takes Knox down with a drop toe hold, then comes off the ropes... running senton! Dinsmore again comes off the ropes... but this time Cade low bridges... and Dinsmore tumbles all the way to the floor!

Van Dam and Punk are furious, storming the ring, but that only serves as a distraction as Cade and Murdoch drop down and lay a beating on Dinsmore, clubbing him with forearms and boots, before Murdoch scoops Dinsmore up with a bearhug... then rams him spine first into the ringpost! Cade quickly rolls Nick back into the ring, where Knox drops down for the cover... 1... 2... Dinsmore kicks out. The punishment is now focused on Dinsmore's spine, with Knox delivering a stiff backbreaker, while Cade takes Dinsmore up and down with a long vertical suplex. After Murdoch gets a long two count from a full nelson slam, Knox gets the tag, and after delivering a trio of elbows drops to the lower back, he then locks Dinsmore in an abdominal stretch. Knox wrenches on the hold, applying all kinds of pressure, even reaching out and grabbing the top rope, causing Dinsmore to groan in pain. Kelly Kelly starts to slam her hands off the mat, and 'RVD' and Punk encourage the crowd to rally behind Dinsmore, and he slowly shows signs of life... and then finally manages to break free with a hiptoss! Dinsmore now looks to go on the attack, smacking Knox with right hands, before he goes for the Irish whip... Knox reverses... but Dinsmore ducks a clothesline... then rattles Knox with a leg lariat! Dinsmore stays on the offensive, landing kicks to the chest, before he again sends Knox for the ride... but this time Knox explodes with the FLYING BEAR! Dinsmore is wiped out, Knox has the cover... 1... 2... Van Dam makes the save! The heels protest as the crowd cheers, with Knox now yanking Dinsmore to the corner to tag in Murdoch. After landing more shots to the spine, Murdoch yanks Dinsmore in, hooks him up... and looks for the ACE OF SPADES... NO! Dinsmore counters with a desperate back body drop! Both men are down, crawling to their corners... here comes Knox... and here comes Rob Van Dam!

'RVD' bursts into the ring and immediately starts lighting Knox up with kicks to the body, driving him to a neutral corner, where he lands one, then two shoulder thrusts... then back flips out... and races back in for a third! Murdoch storms the ring, but Van Dam sees him coming, avoiding a clothesline... then planting Murdoch with a DDT! Knox is back up, and he looks for a boot to the midsection... which Van Dam catches... then counters with a step over spinning wheel kick! The force of the kick sends Knox down into a seated position, his head resting on the bottom turnbuckle, and this prompts Van Dam to sling himself to the top rope... then fly... VAN TERMINATOR!! 'RVD' gets all of it, but as he stumbles back to his feet... he's levelled by a Lance Cade clothesline... but Punk storms the ring and tackles Cade to the canvas! Punk lays in with wild rights and lefts, before he's grabbed by the hair by Murdoch, who looks to fire Punk to the corner... but Punk reverses and follows in... step up knee to the face... and Punk hangs on for the bulldog! Murdoch rolls from the ring, but now Cade tags Punk with a boot to the midsection... only for Dinsmore to spin Cade around... double leg takedown... and now Dinsmore steps and twists... TEXAS CLOVERLEAF!! Dinsmore locks on his deadly submission move, with Cade screaming in agony... until he's saved by a massive boot to the face from Knox! Dinsmore hits the canvas, with Murdoch quickly dragging his partner to safety, and as Knox turns... he's rocked by a springboard super kick from Van Dam... that causes him to stumble into the clutches of Punk, who takes Knox up on his shoulders... GO TO SLEEP!! Knox is planted to the mat, and now Van Dam, the legal man, slings himself to the top rope... and flies with the FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH!! Here's the cover... 1... 2... 3!

Winners: Rob Van Dam and The Straight Edge Saints @ 11.24

A great performance from ‘RVD’ and The Saints as they combine to put Knox away. Cade and Murdoch are already backing up the ramp, shouting abuse back down at Punk and Dinsmore, while the WWE Champion celebrates with his two partners, the trio having their hands raised by the referee. Van Dam then heads for the corner and calls for a mic, waiting for his music and the cheers of the crowd to die down before he starts to speak…


Rob Van Dam: Thank you, thank you very much. Hey, how 'bout a hand for these two guys right here, CM Punk and Nick Dinsmore, The Straight Edge Saints!

The crowd instantly rise and give a great cheer and round of applause for Punk and Dinsmore, the pair nodding in appreciation...

Rob Van Dam: You two guys were awesome. I'm pretty sure... no, wait... I know for a fact that one day, you two are gonna get another shot at the World Tag Team Titles, and you're gonna be walkin' away with that gold around your waists, dudes.

'RVD' exchanges high fives with both Punk and Dinsmore, before they head for the ropes and make their exit, leaving Van Dam behind to carry on with his announcement...

Rob Van Dam: And y'know, after what happened last week with Claudio Cesaro, it was nice to just come out here, team up with two young, hungry guys, and pick up a great victory.

Van Dam nods to himself, but then a look of reluctance crosses his face…

Rob Van Dam: 'Cause yeah, whether I like or not, I did lose last week. And I'm gonna be honest with all of ya'... last week, I underestimated Claudio. I thought he was new, he was actin' like a jerk, and he was showin' a total lack of respect to this company and to the Monday Night Raw roster.

’RVD’ holds his hands out and shrugs as a show of apology to the crowd…

Rob Van Dam: The way he strutted in here and demanded a title shot, that's not cool. That's not how it's done here in the WWE. But I decided that the best way to teach the new guy a lesson was to get 'im in the ring... and beat 'im.

Pop from the fans…

Rob Van Dam: And I woulda done too if I didn't take my eye off the ball for a split second and focus on Shawn Michaels. But I ain't gonna cry about it, I ain't gonna complain. I lost the match. But what I am gonna do is try make it up to all you fans... and to myself.

Another pop…

Rob Van Dam: Claudio, last week ya' walked in here and made a challenge, and ya' caught me off guard. Well this week, I'M the one makin' the challenge.

Van Dam firmly points a finger to his chest…

Rob Van Dam: I owe you one, bro', and I'm not listenin' to anymore talk of me bein' a coward or me tryin' to avoid you. So I say next week, me and you step into this ring, and we go one more time with the WWE Championship on the line!

And another point, with Van Dam motioning for the cheers to grow louder…

Rob Van Dam: I don’t care what happens tonight between you and John Cena, I want you in this ring next week dude, ‘cause you’re runnin’ your mouth way too much for a guy who just got in the door, and I’m the guy that’s gonna shut it!

Turning to the hard camera, a much more serious look crosses Van Dam’s face…

Rob Van Dam: And when I’m done schoolin’ the new guy... Shawn Michaels... you’re up next, bro’.

A much more louder, intense cheer from the crowd, clearly excited by the prospect of Van Dam and Michaels going at it…

Rob Van Dam: I’m not gonna be intimidated, and I ain’t gonna be freaked out by all the faith and the mind games you try to play. You cost me that match last week, but believe me, that was a mistake that ain’t gonna happen again.

Van Dam stares into the camera, letting that last comment linger…

Rob Van Dam: I don’t need the speeches or the sermons about god or faith or what you might see when you close your eyes at night. I gave up on religion a long time ago, so you can save all that. And you can save the threats about makin’ it personal too. ‘Cause believe me dude, you stick your nose in another one of my matches...

Cold blooded, Van Dam stares straight down the barrel and says…

Rob Van Dam: It’s gonna be more than personal.

Another big pop…

Rob Van Dam: So Claudio, Shawn, I’m right here waitin’ dudes. I’ll take on anybody who steps up and challenges me... and one way or another... I’m gonna beat ‘em. And that’s ‘cause I’m ROB – VAN – DAM!

*ONE OF A KIND...*

The crowd are on their feet once again, loudly cheering for the WWE Champion, who heads to the corner and climbs to the turnbuckle, hoisting his title high into the air, celebrating with the crowd. The fans and Van Dam continue to toast his victory, but the shot quickly cuts backstage… to see that Shawn Michaels is stood infront of a monitor, and clearly watched every word of what ‘RVD’ just said. The cold blooded look in Michaels’ eyes shows little emotion, but as his eyes narrow, Michaels is clearly contemplating something… but just like every other time we’ve seen Michaels these last few months, he gives nothing away… but it’s clearly something ominous for ‘RVD’ that Michaels has in mind, but as we head into a commercial, we aren’t going to find out what that is just yet.

*Commercial*

We return to see Todd Grisham standing by for another interview…


Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Monday Night Raw. And please welcome my guest at this time... Jeff Hardy.

A warm welcome for Jeff Hardy as he enters from the right, nodding a hello at Grisham before he folds his arms across his chest and waits for the question...

Todd Grisham: Jeff, last week you advanced to the final sixteen in the King of the Ring tournament, and now you're just one more win away from going to Saturday Night's Main Event. Many people have already singled you out as one of the favourites to go all the way and become King. Jeff, what are you feelings on that, and do you think you can become King?

Pondering his response, Hardy runs a hand across his chin and purses his lips, before finally answering...

Jeff Hardy: Well... it's always nice to hear your name bein' mentioned among the favourites to win. 'Cause winnin' is exactly what I plan on doin'. Y'know, I've been in this company a long time now. I've been a tag team champion, I've been Intercontinental Champion... but I've never made it to the very top. I never really got my chance to challenge for the biggest prizes around here. And that's why I plan on winnin' the King of the Ring... and then I'm plannin' on becomin' a world champion.

A passion burns in Hardy's eyes as he answers...

Jeff Hardy: Guys like 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin, Triple H, Edge, Brock Lesnar... they've all got one thing in common. They all won the King of the Ring... and they all became champions.

Hardy now turns to the camera to add emphasis to his next statement...

Jeff Hardy: And this year... it's gonna be MY year.

Big pop from inside the arena...

Jeff Hardy: I look at my brother Matt, and I can't tell ya' how happy I am for all the success he's havin' on SmackDown right now. But hey, we're brothers... we've always gotta compete with each other.

A little laugh as Jeff shrugs his shoulders...

Jeff Hardy: I'd like nothin' better than to face Matt in the King of the Ring final... and beat 'im. And after that...

Hardy pauses, turning towards the camera, where he very seriously says…

Jeff Hardy: I'm not gonna waste any time in challengin' the WWE Champion... whoever... that might be.

And another cheer from the fans as Jeff gives Grisham a quick slap on the arm then turns and leaves. Grisham watches him go, smiling and nodding, convinced that Jeff can indeed become champion someday, the camera lingering on him for a few seconds before we head back into the arena.

To hear...

*THE GREAT GATE AT KIEV...*

The arena is on its feet as an excited Jerry Lawler stands up from the announce desk and starts to remove his jacket...


Jerry Lawler: Here we go! I know this is the one you've been waitin' for, J.R.!

Jim Ross: Go get 'em, Jerry! Give 'im hell!

Joey Styles: Best of luck, 'King'! I'm sure you'll do great.

Lawler tosses down his headset and heads for the ring, appreciating the warm response from the crowd before he performs a few stretches to loosen up...

Joey Styles: Well folks, it's time for another King of the Ring qualifier, and it's our very own WWE Hall of Famer, Jerry 'The King' Lawler, set for action as he takes on 'The Masterpiece', Chris Masters.

Jim Ross: I've known 'King' a long time, I've never seen him as focused, as fired up for this as he is tonight. He's a rank outsider, he's a long shot, but if anybody can pull off the fairytale story and make it all the way to Saturday Night's Main Event, it's gonna be Jerry 'The King' Lawler!

*MASTERPIECE...*

Now that his association with Johnny Nitro is over, the fur coat has been ditched, and it's a return to the traditional robe as Chris Masters and Melina step out, with Masters doing his usual flexing and posing infront of the shower of fireworks, before he shakes off the robe and heads down to the ring...


Jim Ross; He's a great physical specimen, incredibly powerful, and now, with Melina in his corner, Chris Masters has a chance to be more dangerous than at any point in his career. He's always had the physical tools to be a great competitor here on Raw, and maybe with a bit of guidance now, he can go far in the King of the Ring.

Joey Styles: Well I think it's obvious who we're rootin' for in this one, but while I hope 'King' can pull out the win, I don't know how you can look past Chris Masters. He's got a meaner attitude, he's removed what he felt was excess baggage in Johnny Nitro, and now he looks focused and determined to do some real damage. I hope I'm wrong, but I can't see any way for 'King' to see off 'The Masterpiece'...

Match 5: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
Chris Masters
w/ Melina vs. Jerry Lawler

The bell rings, and after Masters again flexes his muscles, the two snap into a collar and elbow tie up, with Masters backing Lawler into the corner. The ref calls for the break, and Masters obliges, but he gives Lawler a stiff shove to the chest before he backs away… only for Lawler to burst from the corner and smack Masters with a stiff right hand! Lawler now goes on the attack, landing right after right, backing Masters to the ropes, where Lawler lays in with kicks to the midsection, then goes for the Irish whip… but Masters rebounds and runs through Lawler with a shoulderblock! Lawler tries to get back on his feet quickly, but Masters jumps right on him, going for a standing side headlock… only for Lawler to grab the wrist and twist it into a headlock of his own! Lawler wrenches on the hold, but Masters manages to shove him off the ropes… Lawler rebounds with a shoulderblock… but Masters stays standing! Lawler quickly comes off the ropes again… and ducks underneath a Masters clothesline… then smacks him with a dropkick to the face! Masters stumbles back to his feet, where Lawler is waiting, landing a trio of left jabs… before he winds up and knocks Masters down with a big right hand! Lawler drops into the cover… Masters kicks out at two. Looking to build some momentum, Lawler turns and comes off the ropes again… but Melina reaches in and grabs him by the foot! Lawler puts on the breaks and looks down on Melina, and when he turns back to the action… Masters hammers him with a massive clothesline!

Masters gains control now, stomping down on Lawler’s chest, before he drives a boot into Lawler’s throat, choking him until the ref counts for the break. Yanking Lawler up, Masters takes him up and down with a suplex, then floats over for a pinfall, but Lawler kicks out at two. Masters then mounts Lawler and rains down on him with right hands, before the arrogance of Masters is again on display as he flexes his arms, drawing more heat from the fans… but he poses too long, and from his knees, Lawler lands two rights to the gut… but a big knee to the face from Masters stops any momentum. Masters now lays in with a backbreaker and a sidewalk slam, both moves gaining near falls, before he starts to try wear Lawler down by landing clubbing forearms to the back of the neck and the small of the spine. Masters then lands headbutts to the spine, before he takes Lawler up and down with a another backbreaker… but this time he holds Lawler in place for a backbreaker rack. Pressing Lawler’s body down across his knees, Masters applies all kinds of pressure to the spine, Lawler trying to pry free the grip, but Masters is just too strong as he keeps it locked on. The crowd start to make some noise, much to Melina’s annoyance, and now Lawler tries to make a move to break free, swinging a leg to repeatedly kick Masters in the head… and the third kick finally breaks the hold! Masters shakes away the cobwebs and moves back in, but Lawler beats him to the punch, catching Masters with a trio of right hands before he goes for the Irish whip off the ropes… into a back body drop! Lawler now looks to build momentum, snapping off shots that drive Masters to the corner, where more punches land, before Lawler goes for the Irish whip across… but Masters reverses and follows in… right into a boot to the face! Masters falls to the canvas, which prompts Lawler to push himself up onto the second rope… take down that strap… and then he nails the DIVING FIST DROP! Lawler hooks the leg… 1… 2… Masters rolls a shoulder! Lawler can’t believe it, but now he’s back on his feet, right hand ready, waiting for Masters to rise… but when he swings the right, Masters ducks underneath… and then hammers Lawler from behind with a double axe handle to the back of the head! Lawler is down, and now Masters stands and waits for Lawler to rise, poised and ready to lock on the MASTERLOCK… until the entire arena is launched into a state of confusion as we hear…

*GUITAR RIFT...*

”NOW LISTEN... THIS AIN'T NO MAKE BELIEVE...

C'MON! OPEN YOUR EYES AND SEE...”

And with a whoosh, the music comes to a stop, leaving everybody in the arena stunned and confused. Masters turns to Melina, searching for an answer as to what in the hell that music was for, but all Melina can do is shrug her shoulders. Standing by the ropes, looking up at the tron, Masters just shakes his head... until he's caught from behind by Lawler with a rollup! 1... 2... NO! Masters barely kicks out! Lawler nearly caught Masters by surprise, and now both men are on their feet... and Lawler beats Masters to the punch with a boot to the midsection... then he pulls Masters in... and looks for the PILEDRIVER... NO! Masters counters with a back body drop, and after shaking off the cobwebs, he again stalks Lawler from behind... then makes his move... MASTERLOCK!! This time Masters has it locked in, violently shaking 'King' back and forth, no escape for Lawler... and eventually the referee steps in... Lawler's out cold! The ref calls for the bell! This one is over.

Winner: Via Submission, Chris Masters @ 05.14

It's a win for Masters, but as he lets Lawler drop to the canvas and is joined by Melina, the pair of them look at each other in total bewilderment, wondering why on earth that music started playing during the match. They turn to the referee and shout “What the hell was that!?”, but all the ref can do is shrug his shoulders and shake his head, he as clueless as everybody else. Melina looks pretty spooked out by it all, constantly turning and looking over her shoulder, and as the pair make their way back up the ramp, Masters may have been the winner here... but there isn't a hint of celebration as he tries to figure just what in the hell is going on.

We cut away from inside the arena, and it's back to the previously seen 'War Room' where once again, sat around the table are Mr. McMahon, Shane McMahon and John Laurinaitis, although this time they've been joined by Bobby Lashley, who is dressed in a suit just like every other man in this scene. The four sit to one side of the table, their eyes all trained on something or someone off camera, and soon Vince starts to speak to this mystery person who we have yet to see...


Mr. McMahon: So... what d'ya say? I mean, I think I've made you a very attractive offer. And I think it would be in both our best interests to work together on this.

There's tension all around the desk as Vince does his best to sell the prospect of being on his team to whoever this may be...

Mr. McMahon: I mean, you and Bobby here, you two could take on any five guys Cena puts together and beat 'em by yourselves! With you in my team, I can't lose!

Vince lets out a nervous laugh, clearly not sure which way this conversation is going to go...

Mr. McMahon: And of course, if I get control of my company back, if I get full power over Monday Night Raw... well, let's just say it would make your life a whole lot easier.

Now Vince leans forward, a look of sincerity in his eyes as he says...

Mr. McMahon: Help me... to help you. That's all I'm askin' for. So... do we have a deal?

And now finally the camera pans to reveal... it's Randy Orton! Big time hear from inside the arena as Orton sits and stares at Vince, very little expression on his face, clearly pondering what to do. Orton looks down at a few papers laid out infront of him, before he looks back up... and slowly starts to nod...

Randy Orton: I'm in.

Mr. McMahon: Fantastic! Johnny, let's get the paperwork signed!

Laurinaitis slides a contract towards Orton, while Vince reaches inside his jacket and hands Orton a pen. Taking his time to read things over, Orton eventually does sign on the dotted line, which prompts Vince and the rest of the table to rise, with McMahon grabbing Orton by the hand to give him a hearty handshake...

Mr. McMahon: Bobby Lashley and Randy Orton on the same team! I've got this in the bag! There's no chance in hell Cena's ever gonna top this!

As always, Orton doesn't show much enthusiasm, but he does starts to shake the hands of the rest of the table, starting with Laurinaitis, then Shane... and then there's the awkward moment where Lashley and Orton come face to face. The two pause, puffing out their chests, staring each other up and down... before Orton extends his hand... and Lashley offers his too. The two share a long, firm handshake, and this is what the camera focuses on as we cut to a commercial.

*Commercial*

*Video Package*

Our video opens at the King of the Ring ’96, where ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin stands victorious, delivering the interview that launched his main event career…

Narrator: It’s a night where future legends make their mark...

“AUSTIN 3:16 SAYS I JUST WHIPPED YOUR ASS!”

We now head back to King of the Ring ’93, where Bret Hart puts Bam Bam Bigelow away with the winning victory roll...

Narrator: A night where icons are created…

“I’M THE BEST THERE IS, THE BEST THERE WAS, AND THE BEST THERE EVER WILL BE!”

King of the Ring ’01, where Edge puts Kurt Angle down with the Edgecution then crawls into the pin to get an emotional victory…

Narrator: A night when the stars of tomorrow shine bright...

“WELCOME TO THE ERA OF AWESOMENESS!”

And we now go to last year’s tournament final, where Booker T grabs the win over Bobby Lashley…

Narrator: A night to crown… a new king.

“BOW DOWN BEFORE YOUR KING!”

We now see flashing images of some of this year’s contenders, starting with Jeff Hardy, Montel Vontavious Porter, CM Punk and Matt Hardy…

Narrator: And this year, live on NBC, the WWE King of the Ring returns! It’s the one night Saturday Night’s Main Event spectacular where one man’s career is set to skyrocket!

More flashing images, this time it’s Bryan Danielson, Kenny Dykstra, Johnny Nitro and Mr. Kennedy…

Narrator: Eight men will battle to join the most exclusive of WWE clubs. Who will take King Booker’s crown and become the 2007 King of the Ring!?

Another round of flashing images, this time of former winners such as Steve Austin, Owen Hart, Edge, Bret Hart and King Booker…

Narrator: The King is dead…

More clips from last year, this time from Booker’s coronation ceremony, then a quick shot of him close to tears after his victory to clinch the World Heavyweight Championship…

“ALL HAIL KING BOO-KAH!”

”Long live… the King.”



"SATURDAY NIGHT’S MAIN EVENT – THREE HOUR KING OF THE RING SPECIAL – JUNE 2ND - LIVE ON NBC!"

*End Video Package*

We’re back into the arena, this time to see the faces of our announce team, although it’s only Styles and J.R. sat at the desk now, Lawler no doubt backstage recovering from his defeat to Chris Masters…

Jim Ross: Yes folks, the King of the Ring in live, Saturday, June 2nd, less than one month away. We had three qualifiers last week, we’ve had another three tonight, so far six men from Raw have advanced to the final sixteen.

Joey Styles: And with that in mind, let’s take a look at what the Raw half of the bracket looks like right now…

Harry Smith vs. Kenny Dykstra
Lance Cade vs. Nick Dinsmore

Chris Masters vs. Jerry Lawler
CM Punk vs. Trevor Murdoch

Carlito vs. Mike Knox
Shelton Benjamin vs. Super Crazy

Hardcore Holly vs. Jeff Hardy
Charlie Haas vs. Tyson Kidd

Joey Styles: Chris Masters, Shelton Benjamin and Kenny Dykstra all advanced earlier this evening. Who stood out and impressed you the most, J.R.?

Jim Ross: I really liked the look of Dykstra durin' his victory over Harry Smith. I've always said it, I may not like the kid, I think he's arrogant beyond belief, but nobody can doubt the kid is talented. He's gotta be one of the favourites to go all the way.

Joey Styles: Of course last week, Carlito, CM Punk and Jeff Hardy all advanced, and we heard from Hardy earlier tonight, he's determined that this year is gonna be his year and that he's gonna turn a King of the Ring triumph into finally becomin' a world champion.

Jim Ross: I've always felt Jeff Hardy's had all the talent in the world, it's all about his attitude and motivation. If Jeff can get the mental part of the game right, he's a huge threat to win it all.

Joey Styles: Well we've got two more qualifiers next week on Raw, Lance Cade takes on Nick Dinsmore, while Charlie Haas meets with Tyson Kidd. But don't forget, the King of the Ring continues this Friday night on SmackDown, you won't wanna miss that one folks!

After a few second silence, we cut backstage to see John Cena and Linda McMahon walking along a corridor. Cena is clearly heading for the ring for tonight's main event, although as they walk, it seems that both he and Linda and discussing their reactions to the announcement that Randy Orton is the second member of 'Team Vince'...

John Cena; Listen, don't worry about Orton. The guy we've got lined up knows all about him, hell, he pretty much taught 'im everythin' he knows.

Cena tugs on his wristband and straightens his cap, trying to prepare himself for action while on the move...

Linda McMahon: I know that but... well, are we sure this is the right thing to do? I mean, nobodies heard from this guy in weeks, we don't know what kinda mind-set he's in right now.

With a knowing laugh, Cena comes to a stop and turns to face Linda, placing a hand on her shoulder in a reassuring fashion...

John Cena: Ms. McMahon, trust me, alright? He's fine. It was his idea, he wanted to do it.

Knowing this, Linda nods, but as she ever so slightly looks down at the ground, there's still clearly an element of doubt in her mind...

John Cena: Look, I won't let ya' down, I promise. We're gonna win War Games, and then you're gonna restore this show to how it used to be.

This time Linda smiles, nodding her head...

Linda McMahon: Alright. When are you going to make the announcement?

Again Cena fidgets with his cap, then adjusts his kneepad, before he performs a few arm stretches...

John Cena: First, I'm gonna teach that punk Cesaro a lesson in respect for this company and how we do things around here. Then after that... I'll let everybody know. I'll see ya' later.

As Cena exits the frame, Linda watches him go, a look of concern on her face, but that soon turns to a confident smile as she then turns and heads in the opposite direction and we cut back into the arena.

And hear...

*MIRACLE...*

A ton of heat as Claudio Cesaro steps out, just like last week wearing a sports jacket that reads “Swiss” across the chest. Cesaro stops at the top of the ramp, looks around the arena with a sneer of disgust, before he then raises a fist into the air and then marches down to the ring...


Jim Ross: Certainly John Cena sounds extremely confident with how he has lined up as the second member of 'Team Linda', but its' gonna take a huge name to better Mr. McMahon's signing of Randy Orton.

Joey Styles: Well... who do you think it is, J.R.? Who could Cena have lined up?

Jim Ross: I haven't the faintest idea, Joey. But I guess we're all gonna find out at the end of this matchup. Here comes Claudio Cesaro, a man who looked very impressive early on in his match last week with Rob Van Dam, a match that Cesaro did indeed get the victory in.

Joey Styles: It was a match in which Cesaro certainly had the better of in the early goings as 'RVD' struggled to adapt to the offence of the newcomer, but Van Dam eventually got 'im figured out, and he was just seconds away from finishing Cesaro off, only for Shawn Michaels to get involved.

Jim Ross: Well the challenge has been made by 'RVD', he wants a rematch next week, he wants to avenge that defeat, and I'm sure that's an offer Cesaro is gonna take 'im up on. But will he do it with another big win under his belt, namely a win over John Cena?

*MY TIME IS NOW...*

The loudest pop of the night so far, pretty much entirely cheers for John Cena as he strides out onto the stage. Cena takes a long look around the arena, and then when the camera moves in on him, Cena is overheard saying “School's in session!” before he offers up a salute and then races down to the ring...


Jim Ross: In six weeks’ time, John Cena will lead his team into war! But tonight, it's all about pride, it's all about honour, as John Cena takes on Claudio Cesaro. It's our main event, and it's live when we return to Monday Night Raw!

*Commercial*

Main Event:
Claudio Cesaro
vs. John Cena

Just like last week, it’s a cagey start to a Cesaro match, as just like ‘RVD’, Cena takes his time in sizing Cesaro up, before the two finally snap into a tie up. Both men struggle and jockey for position, until Cesaro twists into a waistlock, then uses it for a takedown, which he then transitions into grounded headlock. Cena struggles back to his feet, and he breaks the hold by shoving Cesaro off the ropes… only for Cesaro to knock Cena over with a shoulderblock! The crowd gasp in surprise, with Cesaro pausing for a few seconds to gloat, before he comes off the ropes again… but Cena lies flat on the canvas as Cesaro runs over him… then nips up to send Cesaro down with a hiptoss! Now Cena looks to build momentum, coming off the ropes… flying shoulderblock! Again Cena comes off the ropes… another flying shoulderblock… but this time it’s Cesaro who drops down… leaving Cena to crash to the mat below! Cesaro had it scouted, and he quickly pounces to lock Cena in a standing headlock, allowing him to drill a few knees to the face. Cesaro shoves Cena into the corner, unloading with rights and lefts to the body, before he goes for an Irish whip across… Cena reverses… Cesaro hits the turnbuckle hard and stumbles forward as Cena comes off the ropes… one-handed bulldog! Cesaro down in the middle of the ring, and now Cena turns to the crowd, then looks down on Cesaro… “You can’t see me!”… before he comes off the ropes…but before he can deliver the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE, Cesaro wisely rolls from the ring! The crowd don’t like as they boo, but it’s a wise move from Cesaro as he paces around the ring, taking a chance to catch his breath and slow the momentum. Cena calls for Cesaro to re-enter the ring, but Cesaro waves him off… which prompts Cena to head outside! Coming up on Cesaro from behind, Cena spins him around… and levels him with a massive right hand!

The fight is now on the floor, with Cena grabbing Cesaro by the head… and smashing him face first off the steel steps! Cesaro sprawls on the floor, but Cena has him up again… this time it’s face first off the announce desk! Cena now grabs Cesaro by the wrist… Irish whip… shoulder first into the steel steps! Cena roars to the crowd, who respond with a cheer, loving seeing Cena teach the newcomer a lesson. Cena rolls Cesaro back inside for a two count, before he yanks Cesaro against the ropes and unloads with right hands, before going for the Irish whip… kick to the midsection, and Cena comes off the ropes… throwback connects! Another cover… another kick out at two. Cena is in control now, and he lands alternating left and right jabs that back Cesaro to the corner, where Cena looks to fire him across… then follows in… right into a boot to the face! Cena stumbles back, and Cesaro charges… but Cena traps him… belly to belly suplex! Cena again crawls into the cover, 1… 2… Cesaro kicks out. Sensing a chance to finish this one in a hurry, Cena is back on his feet, waiting for Cesaro to rise… Cesaro stumbles up… and Cena takes Cesaro up onto his shoulders… FU… NO! Cesaro counters, throwing elbows to the side of the head, dropping down to the canvas behind Cena… and then dropping him with a falling neckbreaker! Now it’s Cesaro who hooks the leg… 1… 2… Cena kicks out. Cesaro now lays in with a few stomps to the body, then he yanks Cena to the corner, where more stomps to the body land, Cesaro laying in until the referee finally drags him away. Cesaro then moves back in, but Cena bursts to his feet, grabs Cesaro by the leg… takes him down… and looks for the STFU… NO! Again Cesaro has it scouted, as he kicks Cena away to break the hold… with Cena falling through the ropes to the floor! Both men take their time to recover, but when Cena makes a move to re-enter the ring, Cesaro nails him with a baseball slide! Heading outside, Cesaro takes the fight to Cena, landing a pair of uppercuts, then he scoops Cena up… and looks to lawndart him into the ringpost… no! Cena fights to get back on his feet, then he spins Cesaro around and hooks him up for a suplex… no! Cesaro blocks it… and takes Cena up and down with a suplex on the floor! Both men are down, although the last sound we hear before the final commercial of the evening is that of John Cena, groaning in pain as he grabs the back of his neck.

*Commercial*

We’re back, with Cesaro having Cena grounded on the canvas, his legs wrapped around Cena’s neck with a legscissors, and we see that during the commercial, Cena tried to go on the attack, only to be thwarted by a big boot to the face that brought Cesaro a near fall. Cesaro continues to squeeze on the hold, but the crowd now try to urge Cena back into the match, and slowly he starts to fight back to his feet… with Cesaro still clinging to his neck! Unbelievably, Cena forces himself back onto his feet, with Cesaro sat on his shoulders… and Cena turns this into an electric chair! Finally breaking the hold, Cena makes it back to his feet first, clubbing Cesaro with rights against the ropes, before he goes for the Irish whip… Cesaro comes off the ropes into a kick to the gut… then goes up and down with a fisherman’s suplex! Cena is back on his feet, and now he heads for the corner, waiting for Cesaro to make it back to his knees… looking for the diving leg drop bulldog… but Cesaro rolls to safety… and Cena crashes to the canvas! Cena now stumbles back up, and Cesaro is waiting… kick... gutwrench suplex! Cesaro goes for the win… 1… 2… Cena rolls a shoulder! We now enter a period of dominance for Cesaro as he looks to wear Cena down, landing a double foot stomp and then a sitout scoop powerslam, before Cesaro shows impressive strength as he delivers a long giant swing, gaining another near fall. Cesaro continues to apply pressure, laying in with stomps to the chest and then elbow drops, before he yanks Cena up and looks for the Irish whip off the ropes… into a sleeper hold! Cesaro gets the hold locked on tight, and slowly but surely, he gets Cena to fade, with Cena falling to a seated position on the canvas.

The crowd urge and will Cena back to his feet, and after much struggle, he manages to force himself back to a vertical base. Cesaro hangs in there, keeping the hold locked on tight, but Cena tries to break free by drilling elbows to the midsection, but Cesaro hangs onto the hold… until Cena breaks free with the PROTOBOMB! Cesaro is emphatically planted to the mat, but Cena can’t take advantage, both men down, the referee delivering the count. Both men stay down until six, when they make a move back to their feet. Both men back up, and Cena beats Cesaro to the punch, landing a trio of right hands, before he goes for an Irish whip… Cesaro reverses and swings a clothesline… but Cena ducks underneath and keeps on running… flying shoulderblock! Cena is quickly back up… another flying shoulderblock! Again Cena is back up, coming off the ropes… one handed bulldog! And he’s left Cesaro in the perfect spot, standing over him… “You can’t see me!”… off the ropes… FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Cena hits it this time, and now he’s back on his feet, waiting for Cesaro to rise… Cesaro stumbles up… and Cena takes him up… FU… NO! Cesaro drops down behind, hooks Cena’s arm ups… and hits the strait-jacket suplex, a move Styles tells us is called the RICOLA PLEX! Cena is down and out, and Cesaro crawls over to hook the leg… 1… 2… Cena rolls a shoulder! Cesaro can’t believe it, sure he had the match won, back on his feet to get in the referee’s face, until to be told it was just a two count.

With Cena still down grabbing his neck, Cesaro now heads to the corner, pushing himself onto the second rope, waiting for Cena to rise, and when Cena finally does, Cesaro launches himself… looking for the DIVING EUROPEAN UPPERCUT… NO! Cena counters… with a SPINNING SPINEBUSTER! Out of nowhere Cena pulls out a counter, and now he’s back on his feet, waiting for Cesaro to rise… flying shoulderblock! Cena bursts back to his feet, waiting for Cesaro to rise… and he takes him up onto his shoulders… FU!! Cena nails the FU… but Cesaro lands dangerously close to the ropes… and when Cena goes for the cover… 1… 2… CESARO GETS A FOOT ON THE BOTTOM ROPE! Cena can’t believe it, head in his hands, he planted Cesaro but it was just too close to the ropes. Dejected, Cena is back on his feet, wondering what to do next, and eventually he decides to climb to the top rope, waiting for Cesaro to get back to his knees… before he flies… DIVING LEGDROP BULLDOG… NO! Cesaro dives to safety, and once again Cena crashes to the canvas! Cesaro now moves quickly, grabbing Cena… and hooking him up… looking for the NEUTRALIZER… NO! Cena kicks his way back to his feet, and then he traps Cesaro’s arm… takes him down… and steps… STFU!! Cena gets it locked on in the middle of the ring, wrenching on the hold, Cesaro desperately trying to hang in there, the crowd going wild, urging Cena to gain the submission win… and CESARO STARTS TO TAP… BUT THERE’S NO BELL?!! The referee is distracted… and we soon see why… as Bobby Lashley is on the apron! The ref tries to get Lashley back down, but he’s got a hold of the ref by the shirt, and when Cena releases the hold and wonders what the hell is going on, the crowd gasp and frantically tell Cena to turn around… and when he does… Randy Orton is in the ring… RKO!! Orton plants Cena with the RKO and flees the ring, and when Lashley drops down to the floor, Cesaro crawls over and drapes an arm across Cena’s chest… 1… 2… 3!

Winner: Claudio Cesaro @ 14.22

Unbelievable! A stunning upset as thanks to Orton and Lashley, Cesaro has just beaten John Cena! The crowd can't believe it, booing loudly, and the boos now intensify as Lashley and Orton re-enter the ring and start laying into Cena with a vicious assault. Cesaro is soon back on his feet, and he joins in with the attack, before Lashley drags Cena back to his feet, holding him up so Orton can smack Cena with stiff right hands to the face and body. Cesaro now takes a turn, laying in with kicks to the midsection, a three on one mugging here...

Until...

”WOOOOO!”

*ALSO SPRACH ZARATHUSTRA...*


What the...? It's... it's Ric Flair! 'The Nature Boy', he's back! For the first time since WrestleMania, Ric Flair is in a WWE arena, and he's charging down the ramp to come to the rescue of John Cena! Lashley tosses Cena aside, his eyes bulging out his skull, he and Orton going insane with worry, so much so that Orton grabs Cesaro and shouts at him to meet Flair on the outside. As Flair rips off his suit jacket and tie, Cesaro, almost on instinct dives through the ropes to the outside and then races up the ramp to meet Flair... but he runs right into a massive right hand! Now Flair unloads with quickfire rights and lefts, until a big chop to the chest knocks Cesaro down to the steel!

Flair now sets his sights on the ring, rolling under the bottom rope... but Orton and Lashley pounce, jumping on Flair, hammering him with clubbing blows to the back, doing their best to try keep Flair grounded... but Flair fights it, working back to his feet... and now he's laying in with rights and lefts to both Orton and Lashley! Flair fights back, and now he's smacking chops to the chest... and Cena is back on his feet, spinning Orton around... clothesline puts Orton over the top rope to the floor! Now Flair lines up Lashley... a huge chop to the chest... and Lashley goes tumbling to the floor! Flair and Cena have cleaned house! The crowd is going wild, and as Orton and Lashley try to regroup on the outside, Flair grabs a mic...


Ric Flair: Hey! If you two wanna know who the second member of on John Cena's team is, then... WOOOOO!... YOU'RE LOOKIN' AT 'IM!

Another huge pop, the crowd going wild, with Cena now moving close to Flair to shout into the mic…

John Cena: Orton! Lashley! You tell Vinny Mac we're ready for ANYTHIN' he can throw at us! And remember one thing... diamonds are forever... and so is RIC FLAIR!

*MY TIME IS NOW...*

The crowd is going wild, not quite able to believe it, Ric Flair has returned to Monday Night Raw and he's joined John Cena as a member of 'Team Linda'. Cena and Flair share a hug in the ring, before Cena raises Flair's hand high in the air to yet another pop, with Orton and Lashley stood on the stage, the two looking at each other with a sense of fear and trepidation...


Jim Ross: Bah Gawd, I can't believe it! Ric Flair, he's back! And he's signed up with 'Team Linda'!

Joey Styles: And if you're goin' into War Games, who better to have in your team than the man who's been in more War Games Matches than any other?!

Jim Ross: Mr. McMahon thought he had things all wrapped up with the signing of Randy Orton, but John Cena and Linda McMahon, they've evened up the odds in a huge way! Ric Flair is back, and he's goin' to War Games! Thank you all for watchin' Monday Night Raw. Goodnight!

In the ring, Flair and Cena continue to celebrate with the fans, who are still on their feet, euphoric at the face that Flair is back, while on the stage, Lashley and Orton fume as they look down on the ring. Tonight was meant to be their night, but they've been trumped by the re-appearance of 'The Nature Boy', and it's on the sight of Flair that we fade... to... black.

*End Show*




Current Card for WWE SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT - KING OF THE RING SPECIAL:
Date: June 2nd, 2007

Location: TD Banknorth Garden; Boston, Massachusetts


The 2007 King of the Ring Tournament:
COMPETITORS TO BE DETERMINED




Current Card for WWE WAR GAMES:
Date: June 17th, 2007

Location: Target Center; Minneapolis, Minnesota


War Games Match:
Team Linda (John Cena, Ric Flair, ???, ??? and ???) vs. Team Vince (Bobby Lashley, Randy Orton, ???, ??? and ???)

 
#295 ·
Yeah it's a little late :$

619s Feedback for iMac's Monday Night RAW And Stuffs

I think it’s fair to say you’re a Castagnoli fan, no? 8*D You’ve already gotten your fair spread of criticism and praise for the way he’s popped up in here, and like Wolfy said, the first thing that came to my mind when I read the way you debuted him was ‘Legend’s CM Punk’. TKOW has since debunked that notion, but it still stands that you’ve begun this guy’s tenure perhaps not with a rocket launcher and are ready to shoot him to the top, but definitely with a MASSIVE firecracker. I’ve got no real quams with how you handled his debut, really. I’m all for getting guys a splash of a debut, making an impact, and being different. But with that said, you almost definitely do have to watch how you handle him. It’s obvious you’re putting him in quite the forefront already, but much like the WWE or even TNA in real life, if you cram him too much down we reader’s/audience’s throats, it doesn’t matter how well you write him, the way you book him just might turn us off on the guy.

With that said, I turn my full attention towards the opening promo, which didn’t have much of anything special from out of the mouth of Cena until Cesaro came out. This is what I was talking about with the whole ‘watch how you handle him’ thing, and just given the situation presented, I’m almost certain Claudio will walk out with a win tonight. That said, with what Cena said, it sounded like he was the voice of reason in all this. He almost sounded like he really was speaking for any reader who didn’t like the way Claudio popped up. This was certainly a nice way to go around and justify what happened last week and gives you a main event that will almost surely and truly solidify Cesaro’s real place on the card.

You’d better make that War Games match half as brutal as I had planned the War Chamber out to be…

I liked this set up in Vince’s office. It almost feels like a dastardly sports team front office meeting trying to discuss a trade or a draft pick or something. There’s quite a few aimless guys roaming around, so all those question marks surrounding the end of Backlash should start taking shape and making sense now more than ever. The ‘loner’ instantly makes me think of Orton, which wouldn’t be that bad of a name to follow up Lashley on. DAT BREIFCASE and all.

Don’t think I recall using a restraining order in a feud, so it’s grabbed my attention in that way. And now it looks like you’re investing even more in Kenny D, essentially making him a current day Dolph Ziggler – a chick, a big scary black guy, and a prop. I see nothing but promise here, and Kenny’s an obvious favorite to get to the tail end of the KoTR. Just hope D gets a little bit more character depth and doesn’t just rely on so many other things. On the match after that, Benjamin over Crazy every day of the week. Not much else to write home about rather than that, but it might be nice to see the WGTT’s next challengers emerging over the course of this tourney.

Masters and Melina laying it on thick after dissing Johnny is just what it should have been and that was a grasp at justification from them. It makes them look like total tools because they were in a TAG TEAM, where it’s never just one person’s fault, so kudos on the natural heat on that one. The play towards Johnny is nice since you’re pretty much going the face Nitro/Morrison route. It’ll be really nice to see how he develops and add some depth to a midcard that’s riddled with tag teams, but not much else beyond Carlito, Dykstra, and possibly Cesaro. This is actually a tag team break up that might have been needed as far as roster depth is concerned.

This was a nice display of everything Dykstra has going for him – he’s solid in the ring, Torrie played her role very effectively in being the blonde and beautiful distraction, while Ezekiel immediately pays dividends and blocks out some outsiders. Thought Jackson would be more in the spotlight here given he has just shown up tonight, but what he did was fine. The Jumping STO is a good enough finisher for Kenny for now, but here’s to hoping you’ll find something better for him as his character evolves.

Ah. That’s why Jackson didn’t do so much in the match. I’m not sure how I feel about Carlito downing Kenny’s hired help in their very first meeting, but Carlito does need some bright spots in this feud. A sub-program with Jackson/Carlito might be on the horizon, and I’m really hoping neither one of these guys gets put in the War Games match. When you’re gonna have as big a main event match as you’re gonna have then, the PPV then will probably be more of a chance for your midcard to shine and where we may finally get a blow off between these two. Carlito needs to grow a little bit characterwise past ‘lover scorned’, but I’m sure that will lead him down some other path in coming weeks.

Oh great. We’re both about to probably end our Danielson/Helms feuds and now it looks like we’re both picking on the Harts/WGTT tree. The Legacy are too fresh right now, I think, to truly take the titles off of the WGTT, but this was nice to set up some backstory and a little bit more enthralling overall story for the match next week. And plus I’m glad you’re giving it a little more attention than most others seeing as how this is the match I was most looking forward to. Maybe you read me right….

Love you going with a more sinister Beth Phoenix after her title win. She and Natalya’s ‘cry for me’ shtick could’ve been much deeper than it was in real life, and this looks like you taking note of that. With the way she’s throwing out challenges and dominating, I almost wanna say she may be on track to be the women’s division version of perhaps Kurt Angle. These open challenges will go on for a while I suppose, but I fully expect Victoria to be a surprise challenger and set up another challenge. Either that or a debuting diva will do it. It’s nice, because the story has an obvious trajectory, but not an obvious result. Oh, and it’s nice to see Candice dropped on her face.

Very feel-good match for the Saints and RVD here, although I will say the character analyzer in me absolutely cringes on straight-edgers and an infamous pothead being together. Van Dam seems like a very scatterbrained fellow who needs to get his priorities straight, something that I would imagine falls in line with I suppose a ‘stoner’ persona that he’s been pulling forever and ever. I don’t like him giving Cesaro another shot when he’s got HBK waiting in the wings, and seeing as how you seem to have a penchant for giving people big wins after help from interference, there could be a case made that next week, Claudio could be WWE Champion. But I don’t think you’re gonna go that route, and I think that HBK/RVD will pick up something or another instead. If you’re gonna let Claudio beat Cena tonight, I beg you not to let him walk out with that title next week. But I’ll reserve all judgment critique for when things actually happen. You’re just making me worry my pretty little head.

Jeff Hardy for King of the Ring? Certainly sounds like a possibility. He’s probably the guy who could benefit most from the KoTR direction wise, so I expect him to make it at east to the quarters or semis. Or it could just a nice segment to not make us forget about him. Moving on…

Lawler being involved in the KoTR is a little bit stretching it, but I’ll take it, especially if it gives Masters a solid win. I’m glad that just the Morrison music hit but not an actual interference because we’ve already seen stuff like it tonight and probably will later on, but also because it would kill Master’s remaining credibility to lose to Lawler, no matter how much interference he got. Interesting set of mind games that might be on tap with this one and I’m really interested to see how it plays out in this midcard spotlight feud.

DAT ORTON~!! Team Vinnie Mac is looking effin’ sick right now.

Cesaro’s ring work has been very solid so far, and you’ve made him look like one smart cookie by being able to counter virtually all of Cena’s signatures for a majority of the contest. You’ve given him very solid ‘fundamentals’, I would say – he’s very ring aware (the rope break after the FU), got the smarts to always look out (again, jamming Cena’s moves at many turns), and he’s got an impressive moveset to boot. He’s also pretty good at getting cheap heat, and as I figured, you give him a HUGE stock boost by letting him defeat the Superman. I can see how some might not like this, but I can’t complain b/c of the number one complaint of Cena during this time was, of course, how much he hogged the spotlight and came across as indestructible. It’s nice to see him out of the title hunt and no longer the premium focus even if he’s still featured, and this was him putting someone over. The interference way avoids him losing too much credibility, especially considering he technically did make the rookie tap out. You’d better play up this kid getting a win over the biggest name in the company, but I’m sure you already know that. The Flair announcement, while not nearly as big as the Orton confirmation, still sets up a big name and a guy who almost would have to be included for the sheer legacy of the match. Cena’s next ally had better be a decent name, though, or Team Linda might not have the juice on paper to stack up.

---
All in all, a show that went to a formulaic route, but was still a clinic on Booking 101. The biggest praise I have about introducing Cesaro the way you did on the previous RAW was that yeah, your shows had been getting by-the-numbers and Wrestlemania hangover feel all over it, but his introduction has breathed a good bit of life into the show as far as unpredictability of both character and booking. Cesaro’s not in the King of the Ring, but whomever wins he almost seems certain to be on tap for a feud with them. But still, I’d keep a keen eye on how you handle him as to not ram him down our throats. As for everything else, still a very solid show that I’m sure you already know about and the War Games situation is setting up nicely, and I’m hoping within the next week or so you start to focus more on the WWE title match before it’s too late. But I’m sure you’ll do more than fine. After all, you’re getting consistent feedback from WOLFY by now, so what I’m saying is probably more of a nuisance than noteworthy :eek: I’ll be keeping more of an eye on how you handle Kenny/Carlito and Nitro/Masters because your midcard probably needs that more. But still a very enjoyable show indeed, Mac daddy (Y)
 
#296 ·
~WWE.COM ANNOUNCEMENT~

World Wrestling Entertainment has come to terms on the release of the following superstars:

Viscera
Snitsky
Tatanka
The Boogeyman
Balls Mahoney
Stevie Richards
Kevin Thorn
Ariel
The Great Khali

*****



~News, Notes and Spoilers~

It appears there will be several shake ups with regards to both the Raw and SmackDown rosters in the upcoming weeks, as with the announcement earlier today of several releases added to the prospect of more debuts taking place in the next few weeks, the make-up of the WWE roster could look far different come the end of the summer.

As reported earlier today, several of the former members of the ECW roster who were yet to find a home on Raw or SmackDown had their contracts terminated, although there are two names missing from that list. Former ECW ring announcer Justin Roberts has been assigned to the SmackDown brand, where he will work house shows until ultimately replacing Tony Chimel as SmackDown’s ring announce. The second name is a far more interesting scenario. Former SmackDown and ECW competitor Sylvester Terkay had his profile very quietly moved over to the Raw section of wwe.com earlier today, sparking rumours that he will soon be making his debut on the red brand. Terkay had previously been portraying an MMA gimmick at the tail end of 2006, but it remains to be seen what kind of character he will portray if he does indeed make his return to WWE television on Raw.

Elsewhere, Doug Williams has wrapped up his remaining independent commitments and will soon be making his debut on the SmackDown brand, presumably as yet another addition to the cruiserweight division. There was talk of perhaps Williams being assigned to development territory OVW initially, but it seems that given his experience and his impressive performance on Raw against Randy Orton a few weeks ago, Williams will be fast tracked straight to the main roster. Speaking of OVW, there are more arrivals rumoured from development to the main roster over the next few weeks. Tag team Deuce and Domino are set to arrive on Raw to further increase the depth of talent in the tag division on the show, while Cody Rhodes, son of ‘The American Dream’ Dusty Rhodes, is also scheduled to make his debut on Raw soon.

There are also reports of a bidding war between WWE and rival company TNA for the services of female wrestler Kia Stevens. Stevens, who wrestles in the independent circuit and in Japan as Amazing Kong, has been approached by both companies in recent weeks with regards to signing with them. For TNA, they view Kong as potentially the star attraction alongside Gail Kim in the women’s division they plan on launching later in the year. For the WWE, Kong would be a huge departure from their usual diva signings, although it is believe that with Triple H spending the summer working behind the scenes more and increasing his influence over talent policy, that several wrestlers like Kong who the WWE previously wouldn’t have looked at are now under consideration. We’ll keep you up to date as the battle to sign Kong continues over the summer.

*****



~Friday Night SmackDown~
May 11th, 2007
Mellon Arena
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania






Friday Night SmackDown rolls into Pittsburgh just nine days away from Judgment Day, with tensions running high on the blue brand, causing General Manager Teddy Long to try and re-establish order before things spiral out of control.

For months now Batista, Edge and Mr. Kennedy have in one way or another all had confrontations with each other. From before No Way Out, through WrestleMania and beyond, these three have always been in close proximity to each other, and now at Judgment Day, it’s time for the trio to put up or shut up. Last week, Teddy Long announced that the three would meet in a Triple Threat Match for the World Heavyweight Championship. Tonight, all three will be in the same ring as they sign their names on a contract that will make the match official. Be it Edge’s whining and complaining, Kennedy’s smart mouth, or Batista’s determination to let his actions in the ring do the talking, these three have been waiting for a chance to step into the ring together, and tonight they get their chance… although Teddy Long will no doubt be doing all he can to ensure they keep their hands off each other and save it for Judgment Day.

Batista will be in action earlier in the evening though as he steps into the ring with Finlay, G.M. Long’s way of punishing the veteran Irishman after his vicious attack of Kane last week. Finlay and Kane will meet at Judgment Day, but tonight, Batista and Finlay revive their rivalry from earlier in the year, with ‘The Animal’ no doubt looking to do Teddy Long a favour, and at the same time, prove once again just why he’s been such a dominant champion. Another member of the Triple Threat Match is also in action tonight, as Mr. Kennedy takes on Jimmy Wang Yang in King of the Ring action. Kennedy is understandably a favourite to become King, and he had no intentions of dropping out of the tournament despite the chance to become World Heavyweight Champion in just over one week’s time. Last week, Kane, Brian Kendrick and Tommy Dreamer all advanced, and this week, six more men look to follow them into the last sixteen. With ‘MVP’ now associated with Jonathan Coachman and King Booker in The Coachman Coalition, his match with Sabu now takes on extra meaning as he looks to restore the pride for his group after Booker’s loss to Tommy Dreamer last week. Meanwhile, the United States Champion, Matt Hardy, will be looking to keep the incredible run he’s been on going as he faces Regal, although he’ll no doubt have one eye on Judgment Day and his showdown with The Miz.

Elsewhere, Chavo Guerrero will continue his Rey Mysterio career retrospective as he takes on another opponent from Rey’s past. Last week it was Mysterio’s long-time rival Psicosis who stepped into the ring with Chavo, only for Guerrero to make quick work of him. Tonight, Chavo has invited another man with a storied history with Rey to the arena, and will no doubt be looking to send another message to Rey ahead of their Last Man Standing Match at Judgment Day. We’ll also be hearing from both champion and challenger as the Cruiserweight Champion, Gregory Helms, steps into the ring with the Number One Contender, Bryan Danielson, for an in-ring interview conducted by John Bradshaw Layfield. ‘JBL’ has never hid his dislike of Danielson, and this one is sure to be far from impartial, but Danielson has confirmed he will accept the offer of a chance to let Helms know exactly what’s in store for him come Judgment Day.

All of this, plus Teddy Long has granted an interview where he will give an update on the whereabouts of The Undertaker, Umaga and Chris Benoit, one month after the three were taken out of action in one way or another.

Confirmed Matches:

Non-Title Match: Batista vs. Finlay

King of the Ring Qualifying Matches – Round of 32

Jimmy Wang Yang vs. Mr. Kennedy
Matt Hardy vs. William Regal
Montel Vontavious Porter vs. Sabu

Chavo Guerrero vs. Another Opponent From Rey Mysterio’s Past

Plus! Batista, Edge and Mr. Kennedy will all sign the contract for their World Hevayweight Championship Triple Threat Match at Judgment Day, and ‘JBL’ will conduct in an in-ring interview with both the Cruiserweight Champion, Gregory Helms, and his Judgment Day opponent, Bryan Danielson!
 
#297 ·
~Friday Night SmackDown~
May 11th, 2007
Mellon Arena
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania



"Now I wanna hurt you."




We kick off the broadcast with a quick highlights package from last week, showing us brief soundbites of the complaining from Edge and Mr. Kennedy with regards to their World Heavyweight Championship opportunities, then we hear soundbites from the champion, Batista, who's had enough of hearing his challengers whine and complain. We then see the announce from Teddy Long that at Judgment Day, the three will meet in a Triple Threat Match, before we cut to the main event, a tag team match featuring Batista and Matt Hardy against Edge and Miz, with Mr. Kennedy as the guest referee. After Miz and Hardy battle to the back, Batista and Edge fight with each other, and Edge looks for a spear... only to catch Kennedy! The match continues, until Kennedy is back on his feet... and he smacks Edge in the face... which then leads to the Batista Bomb! The video package ends with 'The Animal' standing tall, he and Kennedy exchanging tense looks at each other, while Edge is down and out as we fade to black.

From this, we head into the arena, no pyro, no music, a cold opening... until...

*I WALK ALONE...*

The arena goes wild as the World Heavyweight Champion himself, Batista makes his entrance, firing up the fans as he slaps his chest and encourages them to up the volume. Batista then crouches down, sets off an impressive bursts of fireworks, before he heads down the aisle to the ring...


Michael Cole: Welcome everybody to Friday Night SmackDown! And what a way to kick things off, with none other than the World Heavyweight Champion, 'The Animal', Batista! Hello folks, I'm Michael Cole, alongside me as always John Bradshaw Layfield and Tazz, and we are kickin' things off in a big way with Batista set to take on Finlay in one on one action. We've got a huge night in store, as Batista will sign on the dotted line alongside Edge and Mr. Kennedy for their Triple Threat Match at Judgment Day!

John Bradshaw Layfield: And after the way last week's main event went down, with Edge takin' a cheap shot from Kennedy, pratically handin' the win to Batista, I know Edge is gonna be in a helluva mood by the time he gets in the ring with those two!

Tazz: Well, I gotta admit, if I was Edge, I'd be pretty pissed off about what happened last week, but at the same time, Edge brought it on 'imself. He hit Kennedy with the spear, and Kennedy reacted to it. I don't think Edge can have anybody but 'imself to blame for losin' last week.

Michael Cole: Well that's to come later on, but right now, Batista is in action against Finlay, and I'm sure we all remember the war these two had back at the Royal Rumble. Batista was victorious that night, retaining the World Heavyweight Championship, and he'll be lookin' for another victory right here.

Tazz: And this match came about after Finlay lost his match to Kane last week and then decided he was gonna try smash Kane's knee into a thousand pieces with that shillelagh. Teddy Long's tryin' to lay down the law with Finlay, and he's hopin' 'The Animal' is gonna be the guy to do for 'im.

”MY NAME IS FINLAY... AND I LOVE TA’ FIGHT...”

*LAMBEG...*​

And now a loud outpouring of heat as Finlay slowly emerges from the back, a stern look on his face as he stares down at the ring, shaking his head, clearly not happy about being involved in this match up. For the second week in a row, The Little Bastard is by Finlay's side, snarling and growling in the direction of Batista...


Michael Cole: Well we now know that at Judgment Day, Finlay will step into the ring with Kane, but I guess the question right now is, will Kane even be ready to go by the time we hit San Diego? He took a lot of damage to his knee last week.

John Bradshaw Layfield: And the blame for that lies at the door of one Theodore Long. He scheduled Finlay and Kane in the King of the Ring qualifier just one week after Finlay competed in a Belfast Brawl? Gimme a break!

Tazz: Like Teddy Long said, it was the luck o' the draw that meant Finlay had to go last week. And that ain't no excuse for his actions either. The guy just lost it. I mean, he missed out on the United States Championship, the next week he misses out on the King of the Ring, and he decided to take it out on Kane. Well now he's gonna pay for it, tonight at the hands of Batista, and then at Judgment Day at the hands of Kane.

Match 1: Non-Title Match
World Heavyweight Champion Batista vs. Finlay w/ The Little Bastard

The bell rings to get us under way, with both men emerging from their respective corners to circle the ring, before Batista now looks to narrow the gap, trying to trap Finlay in the corner. The two go for a tie up, and Batista overpowers Finlay, backing him to the turnbuckle, where the ref steps in for the break. Batista obliges, backing off and waving Finlay towards him, the two tying up again, this time in the centre of the ring. ‘The Animal’ works into the standing side headlock, only for Finlay to shove Batista off the ropes… and he rebounds with a hard shoulderblock! Finlay scrambles to the corner, calling for space, and he takes an age to finally get back on his feet. The pair tie up for a third time, and now Finlay has the standing side headlock, wrenching it on as Batista tries to break free. Eventually Batista shoves Finlay off the ropes… into a big back body drop! Again Finlay scrambles to the corner, but this time Batista goes on the attack, driving shoulder after shoulder to the midsection, before he sends Finlay for the ride… and follows in with a corner clothesline! More shoulder thrusts follow, before ‘Tista takes Finlay to the centre of the ring and nails a sidewalk slam for a two count. Looking to stay on the attack, Batista takes Finlay up for a scoop slam… but Finlay lands behind him… and shoves ‘The Animal’ into the corner. Finlay quickly moves in, landing right hands and uppercuts, before he fires Batista across the ring… ‘Tista hits the turnbuckle hard… but then explodes out to hammer Finlay with a clothesline! Almost on instinct, Finlay rolls under the bottom rope to the floor, but ‘The Animal’ isn’t interested in allowing him to recover, quickly following outside to grab Finlay… and smash him face first off the steel steps! Finlay hits the floor and starts to crawl away, desperately trying to distance himself from Baitsta, but ‘Tista stays on him, yanking Finlay up, taking him up on his shoulders… then he drops him face first off the announce desk!

Finlay is reeling as he’s rolled back into the ring, where Batista gets a near fall, and now ‘The Animal’ takes Finlay up and down with a backbreaker for yet another two count. Again Finlay seeks respite in the corner, but Batista stays on him, landing more right hands, before he brings Finlay to the centre of the ring and sends him off the opposite side… but Batista lowers his head… and Finlay snaps it up with a kick to the chest… then levels ‘The Animal’ with a clothesline! Finally a chance for Finlay to go on the attack, and he starts with some stomps to the chest, then jumps up to land a double foot stomp. Grabbing the champion, Finlay drags Batista to the ropes, placing his throat across the middle rope and sitting in, choking ‘Tista. Finlay stands up then holds Batista open, landing forearms to the chest, before he knocks Batista down with a short-arm clothesline. Finlay then pushes himself up to the second rope and launches… but Batista gets a boot up! Finlay staggers and tries to shake it off, but here comes Batista, rocking Finlay with multiple clotheslines, before he fires Finlay off the ropes… into a swinging side slam! Finlay is planted, and now Batista hooks the leg… 1… 2… Finlay kicks out. Looking to stay in control, ‘Tista snaps off a few right hands to the face, then he goes for the Irish whip… but Finlay reverses… and The Little Bastard grabs Batista by the foot! ‘Tista puts on the breaks and angrily glares at the little guy, but here comes Finlay to take advantage of the distraction… but Batista sees him coming… and sends Finlay over the top rope and crashing to the floor with a back body drop! Finlay hits the floor with a thud, and now Batista heads back outside, looking to keep the momentum going. The champion drags Finlay back up, hooks him up for a suplex… but out of desperation, Finlay drills a few right hands to the midsection… then he drives Batista spine first into the barricade! Batista crumples in pain, but Finlay soon has him by the wrist… Irish whip… into the steel steps! ‘The Animal’ hits the steps knees first and goes flying over them, and as we head to a commercial, it appears that this match has now turned in Finlay’s favour.

*Commercial*

And we return with Finlay having Batista locked in an Indian deathlock, clearly targeting the knee, causing all kinds of damage and pain to the World Heavyweight Champion. Batista grimaces, trying to reach the ropes, but he’s just too far away. Every now and then, Finlay reaches forward and pulls back on Batista’s chin, further upping the pressure, but with the crowd now starting to make some noise, Batista tries to break free, pushing up with his hands, trying to force a break in the leg hold. Finlay sees this and release the leg, but he quickly slaps on a sleeper, desperate to keep Batista on the ground… but it’s no use as ‘The Animal’ powers back to his feet with Finlay still wrapped around his neck… until a snapmare finally sets him free! Limping heavily, Batista moves in and clubs Finlay with a few right hands… but Finlay quickly tackles Batista to the corner. Placing Batista’s leg on the second rope, Finlay rears back… and delivers a stiff kick to the back of the knee! Another two kicks land, until Finlay now grabs the boot and drags Batista to the centre of the ring… dragon screw! A painful takedown, and now Finlay goes for the cover… but only gets two. Finlay now lays in with stomps and kicks to the leg, before he places the foot on the bottom rope, jumps up… and drives his bodyweight down on the knee! Finlay repeats this another two times, before he then heads outside, grabs the leg and drags Batista to the corner. ‘Tista tries to fight it, but Finlay hangs on tight, rears back… and smashes the knee off the steel ringpost! Batista cried out in agony, but Finlay hangs on… to smash the knee again… and off the steel a third time!

Batista crawls away, writhing in pain, while the camera sees Finlay flash that toothy grin of his before he slides back into the ring for a near fall. A seated senton and a double foot stomp across the knee cause further damage, and then Finlay gets another near fall from a suplex. With the champion down and struggling to get back on his feet, Finlay now goes for a kneebar, looking to hyperextend the knee, trying to make Batista submit. ‘The Animal’ groans in pain, unable to reach the ropes, but he does his best to hang in there, fighting through the pain as he tries to escape. Eventually though ‘Tista seems to be fading, but the fans again rally behind him, making the presence felt, and slowly but surely, Batista crawls towards the bottom rope… until he finally reaches out and grabs it! Finlay takes ever second of the five count before he finally release, but clearly he’s not happy about it as he storms back to his feet and confronts the referee. Dragging Batista up, Finlay again aims a few kicks to the back of the knee, then he hooks Batista up for another suplex… but Batista blocks it. Again Finlay tries… again Batista blocks it… then he counters with a suplex of his own! Both men are down now, the referee giving them a count of ten, and at about six, Finlay is back on his feet first. Batista has to use the ropes to drag himself up, but when Finlay moves in, ‘Tista rocks him with right hands… then scoops Finlay up with a spinebuster… to drive him into the corner! Shoulders land to the gut, before Finlay is sent for the ride… hitting the turnbuckle hard and Batista follows in… right into a boot to the face! ‘Tista stumbles back, allowing Finlay to push himself onto the second rope… then he flies with a crossbody… Batista catches him… and then hits a massive running powerslam!

The impact of the move causes Batista to grab his knee in pain, but he soon crawls into the cover… 1… 2… Finlay kicks out! Annoyed, Batista is quickly back on his feet and back on the attack, driving Finlay to the corner with rights, then he fires him across… and follows in with a corner clothesline! Again Finlay is sent across the ring… and another corner clothesline! Finlay has rubber legs as he stumbles forward… into a sidewalk slam! Another cover… 1… 2… again Finlay kicks out! Sensing he can finish things off, Batista fires Finlay off the ropes… straight into a huge SPINEBUSTER! Finlay is down and Batista is on his feet, roaring to the crowd… but now he sees The Little Bastard has jumped up onto the apron! Batista points and shouts for him to drop down, but the little guy stands his ground, prompting the ref to move in and try get him away… but the distraction allows Finlay to pick up his shillelagh! With the ref’s back to the action, Finlay waits for Batista to turn… then SWINGS THE SHILLELAGH… NO! Batista ducks underneath… then Finlay turns… into another MASSIVE SPINEBUSTER! Batista bursts back to his feet, kicks the shillelagh aside… then sends the little guy flying with a big boot to the face! Turning back to Finlay, Batista yanks him up… then brings him up in the air… BATISTA BOMB… NO! Finlay desperately throws right hands to the face, allowing him to drop down to the canvas… and then he takes Batista up on his shoulders… and looks for the CELTIC CROSS… NO!! Batista drops down behind, shoving Finlay to corner… who strikes the turnbuckle chest first, then staggers back to the centre of the ring… kick to the midsection doubles him over… then he’s taken high into the air… BATISTA BOMB!! ‘The Animal’ emphatically plants Finlay, and now he hooks the leg to get the 1… 2… 3!

Winner: Batista @ 14.21

A great win for Batista as he goes about his business in confident fashion, no controversy, no run ins, just a solid win for the World Heavyweight Champion despite a gutsy effort from Finlay. Pushing himself back to his feet, Batista is handed his title and has his hand raised by the referee, before the champion heads to the corner and celebrates with the crowd, while we head to a commercial

*Commercial*

We return to see Finlay waling very gingerly along a backstage corridor, shaking his head, hands on his hips, in pain and annoyed at his latest defeat. With The Little Bastard by his side, the pair slowly make their way along the dark, dingy corridor, not a soul around them... but then, all of a sudden... the lights go! The whole area is plunged into total darkness, causing the little guy to gasp in fear...


Finlay: What the...? Hey! What's goin' on!?

Not a sound in response, but instead, through the darkness comes an eerie red glow, just bright enough to illuminate the pair but no more, the two looking like something out of a horror movie...

Finlay: What's goin' on!? Kane? Kane!?

Finlay feels about infront of him, fumbling in the darkness, but his hands come up empty...

Finlay: C'mon, Kane! I know it's you! C'mon, show yer'self!

And then just like that... the red glow disappears, and the lights return to normal. In a moment of comedy, we see that The Little Bastard has wrapped himself around Finlay's leg, hanging onto it as if his life depended on it, frozen by fear. Finlay is too busy looking around, searching for Kane, to notice at first, but he eventually looks down and sees the little guy shaking like a leaf...

Finlay: What are ye'...? Get off me!

Finlay shakes himself free, and now he takes another look around, making sure Kane isn't lurking in the shadows somewhere. After satisfying his curiosity, Finlay lets out an angry sigh, before he grabs The Little Bastard by the collar of his jacket...

Finlay: C'mon, let's go...

And the two make their exit. The camera stays focused on the area, searching for a sign as to what on earth was going on with the lights... but there's nothing there, and after a few seconds, we cut elsewhere.

And it's to Josh Matthews and the interview area we go...


Josh Matthews: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time... he is one of the participants in the Triple Threat Match for the World Heavyweight Championship at Judgment Day... 'The Rated-R Superstar'... Edge.

A ton of heat as Edge enters the frame, scowling at Matthews, clearly still pretty upset over the manner of his defeat last week...

Josh Matthews: Edge, later tonight, you, Batista and Mr. Kennedy will all sign your names to a contract for the Triple Threat Match at Judgment Day for Batista's World Heavyweight Championship. But Edge last week, you teamed with The Miz to take on Batista and Matt Hardy, with Mr. Kennedy serving as the Special Guest Referee, and near the end of the match, you hit Kennedy with the spear... and then suffered defeat at the hands of the Batista Bomb. Given all that's happened between the three of you these past few months, what's your mindset heading into Judgment Day?

Matthews turns the mic towards Edge, who shakes his head in annoyance...

Edge: What do you think my mindset is? I'm headin' into Judgment Day with one thing, and one thing only on my mind... to become the new World Heavyweight Champion.

With a smirk, Edge pauses, then carries on...

Edge: But like I keep saying, I should already be champion. I mean, I won the Royal Rumble. I earned my shot at Batista at WrestleMania. And then I had our World Heavyweight Champion down for a three count. Those are both facts, Josh, and not you, or anybody else can deny that. And y'know, it's kinda funny. Not funny ha ha, more funny in a laugh or you'll cry kinda way. It was an incompetent referee that cost me the title at WrestleMania, and then last week... the exact same thing happened all over again, only this time it was Kennedy wearin' the stripes.

Edge runs a hand through his hair, then strokes his chin as a sign of confusion...

Edge: And to be honest, I still don't understand why Teddy Long has put Kennedy in this match. I mean, what's he done that's so great? What... he beat Ric Flair? That's all you've gotta do to get a title shot around here?

A scoff and a shrug of the shoulders from Edge...

Edge: And then that match between the two of us a couple of weeks ago... he sure as hell didn't beat me. Not without Batista's help anyway. Face it, the guy just doesn't belong in this match. We're dealin' with the big boys now, and all Kennedy's doin' is actin' like a spoiled little kid who lost his lunch money.

Again Edge shakes his head, his frustration at the whole situation clear for everyone to see...

Edge: As for Batista? Yeah, nice speech last week, 'champ'. The time for talkin' is over, now it's time to fight? Well guess what, I'm not a fighter... I'm a wrestler. You wanna get into your little brawls with guys like Finlay? Fine, go ahead. After all, he loves to fight. But me? It's gonna take more that power and brute strength to beat me. And that's somethin' you just don't have, and I proved that at WrestleMania. And I'm gonna prove it again in two week's time at Judgment Day.

Heat from inside the arena, which Edge ignores...

Edge: I'm not happy about the fact that it's a Triple Threat Match, I think everybody knows that. But... I'm not gonna let that ruin my moment. I'm gonna finally get what's mine, I'm gonna finally become World Heavyweight Champion.

For a moment, Edge looks off into the distance, dreaming of the day he finally gets his hands on the gold, before he turns back to Josh and says...

Edge: And when I do... SmackDown will officially be... Rated-R.

More heat from the fans as Edge wraps things up and makes a quick exit, leaving Matthews behind to watch him go as we fade into a video.

*Video Package*

A black screen fills the frame, as the opening chords of ‘Booyaka 619’ begin to play. As the music starts to grow, we fade into a match from the July 8th, 1996 episode of Monday Nitro, where Rey Mysterio hits a hurricanrana on Dean Malenko, hanging on tightly for the three count, with Tony Schiavone making the call...

”WE’VE GOT A NEW CHAMPION!”

Narrator: For years he has defied the laws of gravity…

We now fade in on Halloween Havoc ’97, where Mysterio soars through the air, over the top rope, crashing down on Eddie Guerrero with a hurricanrana onto the concrete, with Bobby Heenan shouting...

”I’VE NEVER SEEN ANYTHIN’ LIKE THIS IN MY ENTIRE LIFE!”

Narrator: Fans across the world have marvelled at his feats of athleticism…

The June 5th, 2003 episode of Friday Night SmackDown, where Mysterio counters Matt Hardy’s Twist of Fate into a bridging pin, becoming Cruiserweight Champion once more before we see Rey celebrate with his family as Michael Cole screams…

”MYSTERIO’S THE CHAMPION! MYSTERIO WON THE CHAMPIONSHIP!”

Narrator: He was always the ultimate underdog…

SummerSlam 2005, where Mysterio and Guerrero battle once more, this time in a Ladder Match, with Rey emerging victorious as Tazz yells…

”THE FIGHT IN THIS GUY IS UNBELIEVABLE!”

Narrator: Until he climbed to the very pinnacle of sports entertainment…

And finally WrestleMania XXII, where Rey hits the 619 then hits the West Coast Pop on Randy Orton, winning the World Heavyweight Championship and paying tribute to his late friend, Eddie Guerrero, with Cole again making the call…

”DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE!”

Narrator: And now, Rey Mysterio…

We cut to a darkened wrestling ring, where Mysterio stands, his back to us, his shaved head glistening in the light as he holds his mask in his hands, raising it above his head…

Narrator: Is returning to…

Mysterio slips on the mask, the camera rapidly zooming in for a close up just as Mysterio turns…

Narrator: Friday Night SmackDown!

And we see Mysterio staring into the camera, his eyes as green as the mask adorning his face, before we fade into the following graphic…



"REY MYSTERIO - RETURNING SOON TO FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!"


*End Video Package*

And from the video we head back into the arena, to see that Chavo Guerrero and Vickie Guerrero are already in the ring, the pair looking towards the tron, both shaking their heads as they look on in disgust, clearly having just watched the same video that we all just saw. With her hands on her hips, Vickie shakes her head and scowls, while Chavo smirks and holds his hand up, motioning for his music to come to an end...

Chavo Guerrero: I see uh... I see they're still playin' that video. So I guess that means that you're still plannin' on comin' back, huh Rey? And I guess that also means you didn't listen to me when I warned you to stay away.

Chavo ruefully shakes his head...

Chavo Guerrero: And I guess that means you also didn't pay attention to what I did last week to Psicosis. The guy you've fought over 500 times, the guy who knows what you do in this ring better than anybody... and I beat him in less than five minutes.

Heat from the crowd, but Chavo simply shrugs, knowing the fans can't deny the facts of his victory last week...

Chavo Guerrero: But hey, if you don't wanna listen, Rey... that's fine with me. If you still wanna commit career suicide, if you still want me to shatter your knee so badly, you'll struggle to even walk, never mind wrestle again... then that's exactly what you're gonna get.

More heat...

Chavo Guerrero: Nine days’ time, Judgment Day, Rey Mysterio's career comes to an end, in his hometown, San Diego, California. Infront of all his family and friends, I'm gonna write the wrongs, I'm gonna restore the legacy of Los Guerreros, and I'm gonna do it by causin' Rey as much pain and embarrassment as possible.

Turning to Vickie, Chavo and she share a laugh together, before Chavo turns back to the fans...

Chavo Guerrero: And you know, that's why this look back at Rey's career is so important. You people shouldn't be booing me for doin' this, you people should be thanking me.

A comment which, ironically, draws more boos...

Chavo Guerrero: In nine days’ time, Rey Mysterio is gonna be permanently consigned to the history books, and videos like that, that's all you'll have left. Dean Malenko, Psicosis, my opponent tonight, when Rey fades into obscurity... so do they. But Los Guerreros... ma familia... we'll live on in lucha libre folklore... forever.

Soaking in that last remark, Chavo closes his eyes and nods for a second, before he now looks up the aisle at the entrance way...

Chavo Guerrero: So right now, I wanna bring out a guy who for many years, was Rey Mysterio's tag team partner. Back in WCW, these two had many battles for the Cruiserweight Championship, then they teamed up and became WCW Tag Team Champions. Together they were known as... The Filthy Animals.

A small pop from the few fans in audience who remember said tag team...

Chavo Guerrero: So please welcome... Billy Kidman.

*YOU CAN RUN…*

Much like last week, it’s not a great response as Billy Kidman steps into the arena, but it certainly grows louder than the response Psicosis got as Kidman smiles and plays up to the crowd, slapping hands with the ringside fans and showing an excitement and enthusiasm for being here tonight…


Michael Cole: Well it’s certainly great to see Billy Kidman back here on Friday Night SmackDown! Tazz, you and I called many matches while Kidman wrestled here on the blue brand, and he had a lot of success in both singles and tag team action.

Tazz: No doubt about that, Cole. If I remember right, Kidman’s a former seven time Cruiserweight Champion, he won tag titles in WCW, he won another right here on SmackDown with Paul London, the guy’s held plenty of gold in his career. And for my money, one of the most excitin’ guys to ever step into a ring.

John Bradshaw Layfield: They called ‘im ‘The Master of the Shooting Star Press’, but I remember this guy losin’ his nerve after he hit that move on a certain Chavo Guerrero and causin’ him a concussion. Billy Kidman might have a history with Rey Mysterio, but he’s got one with Chavo too, and I think that might add a little somethin’ extra to this one. Last week he beat a guy who’s faced Rey more times than anybody, and this week he’s gonna embarrass a guy who Rey teamed with. I love it!

As he hits the ring, Kidman climbs to the second rope and salutes the crowd, before he jumps back down and comes face to face with Chavo. Chavo nods a welcome in Kidman’s direction, one which a wary Kidman responds to, before Chavo brings the mic back up to his mouth…

Chavo Guerrero: Billy, allow me to welcome you back to Friday Night SmackDown. Like I just told everybody here, you and Rey Mysterio, you two teamed together back in WCW under the name The Filthy Animals, and you guys had a lot of success. I mean, Rey was a former Cruiserweight Champion, you were a former Cruiserweight Champion, it was only a matter of time before you’re high flyin’ style led you to become Tag Team Champions, right?

Again Kidman nods...

Chavo Guerrero: Infact, you and Rey, you were champions together when WCW finally closed its doors. That's a night you, me, Rey, we all remember that night so well. I dunno about you, Billy, but I know that night, I was very nervous about my future in this business. But thankfully, you and me, our contracts were brought over to the WWE, and we kept our jobs. But uh... that's not what happened to Rey, was it?

Chavo rubs his jaw tentatively...

Chavo Guerrero: I mean, me and you, we both came to the WWE, while Rey… he sat at home and saw out his fat WCW contract. He got paid more for sittin’ at home and doin’ nothin’ that you and me made bustin’ our asses every night. And then when he finally did sign a WWE contract… he was promoted as the star of the cruiserweight division.

Shaking his head ruefully, Chavo pauses, while Kidman rolls his eyes in disdain...

Chavo Guerrero: I dunno about you, Billy, but me? I was pretty angry about the fact that Rey could just walk in here… and straight away, he got opportunities that me and you never got.

Realising what Chavo's trying to do, Kidman turns away and laughs for a brief moment, before he turns back towards Chavo...

Chavo Guerrero: And it wasn't long until Rey was once again tryin' to make a name for myself of my family's legacy. When he first got here, he came after me, then he tried to turn my Uncle Eddie against me. Hell, he even had the nerve to beat my father, Chavo Guerrero Sr., for the Cruiserweight Title! Just like he always did, he tried to drive a wedge between my family, and that's why this Sunday... I'm gonna gain revenge for all the Guerrero family.

Heat, which Chavo ignores, but Kidman quickly motions for the mic to be passed his way...

Billy Kidman: Well, Chavo... that's not really how I remember it. I mean, yeah, Rey joined the WWE about a year after us, and yeah, he was promoted as a star. But that's because.. well, the guy's one helluva wrestler.

A strong pop as Chavo rolls his eyes...

Billy Kidman: And if anybody was gonna drive a wedge between the Guerrero Family... it was you, Chavo.

Both Chavo and Vickie raise their eyebrows, surprised by that last remark...

Billy Kidman: You got so jealous of Eddie, you made your Dad choose between his brother and his son. You got some serious issues, Chavo, and it hurts me to see a guy I used to call a friend act this way.

Annoyed, Chavo shouts “I'm not jealous!”, before he yells at the crowd to be quiet...

Billy Kidman: I mean... you're obsessed! Rey and Eddie... they were friends... and you hated that! You couldn't stand it!

Chavo shakes his head in defiance, while Kidman's eyes drop as he looks at Guerrero with regret...

Billy Kidman: I'm sorry Chavo, I came here tonight hopin' I could try talk some sense into ya', but... I don't think anythin' I say or do is gonna make any difference. You've lost it, man. I'm sorry, I can't do this anymore...

With a sad, reluctant look on his face, Kidman presses the mic against Chavo's chest and turns to leave, making it as far as the ropes... but just before he can step through them... Chavo hammers Kidman from behind! Kidman hits the canvas and Chavo lays in with a flurry of stomps to the chest, before he grabs the referee by the shirt and screams “Ring the bell!” right in his face... and reluctantly, the referee calls for the bell, and this match is underway.

Match 2:
Chavo Guerrero
w/ Vickie Guerrero vs. Billy Kidman

And quickly Chavo yanks Kidman into the corner, laying in with more stomps to the body, before he starts landing vicious right hands to the forehead. A real aggressive streak on display from Chavo as he now shoves Kidman against the ropes, drilling him with knees to the midsection, before going for an Irish whip off the ropes… but Kidman ducks underneath a clothesline and keeps on running… flying crossbody! Kidman finally scores some offence, and he looks to press this home, smacking forearms into Chavo’s face in the corner, before firing Chavo to the opposite corner and following in… corner splash… no! Chavo avoids it, Kidman hits the turnbuckle and stumbles out, only for Chavo to grab him… and launch Kidman shoulder first into the ringpost… the momentum causing Kidman to fall all the way to the floor below! The vicious streak of Chavo is on display again as he targets the left shoulder with stomps, then sends Kidman for the ride… shoulder first into the steel steps! Kidman writhes on the floor in pain, but Guerrero wastes no time in rolling him back into the ring, unloading with uppercuts against the ropes, before he places Kidman’s neck across the middle rope and applies pressure to the back of the head, choking Kidman. The ref backs Chavo away, and from his knees, Kidman desperately throws rights to the midsection, trying to fight back. Chavo quickly drills a knee to the head, then he goes for an Irish whip… and takes Kidman up and down with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker!

There’s no cover from Chavo, instead he revels in the jeers of the crowd as he makes it clear he’s out to hurt Kidman, not just beat him. Again Chavo chokes Kidman on the ropes, before he hooks Kidman up… suplex… but Chavo hangs on, gets back on his feet… second suplex… again Chavo hangs on, back on his feet… and looks to complete the THREE AMIGOS… NO! This time Kidman lands on his feet behind Chavo… and goes for the backslide… 1… 2… Chavo kicks out, and both men burst to their feet… Kidman ducks a clothesline and comes off the ropes… flying forearm! Now Kidman finally gets a chance to go on the attack, landing forearms to the side of the head, then he goes for the Irish whip off the ropes… into a back body drop! Chavo stumbles back up… into a sitout scoop slam! Kidman stays on for the cover… 1… 2… Chavo rolls a shoulder! With Chavo down, Kidman now sense that he has a chance at victory, and he climbs to the top rope, steadying himself… but before he can go for the SHOOTING STAR PRESS… Chavo nips back up and smacks Kidman with a right hand… crotching him on the top turnbuckle! Chavo quickly climbs up top… and sends Kidman flying with a FRANKENSTEINER! Kidman crashes to the mat, and now Chavo wastes no time in yanking him up… and taking Kidman up and down with the GORY BOMB! It’s all over, but of course, Guerrero isn’t satisfied yet, rolling Kidman over, leaving him in perfect position as Chavo heads upstairs… then flies… FROG SPLASH!! Chavo gets all of it, and he doesn’t even bother to hook a leg to get the 1… 2… 3.

Winner: Chavo Guerrero @ 03.27

A pretty sickening display, but a dominant win nonetheless for Chavo. Back on his feet, Chavo demands that his hand is raised by the referee, an act which draws even more boos from the crowd. As Vickie steps through the ropes, she congratulates her nephew, but Chavo quickly tells Vickie to grab him a microphone...


Chavo Guerrero: REY! Rey, I want you to take a look at this piece of crap right here!

Standing over Kidman, Chavo looks down upon him with a smirk...

Chavo Guerrero: You see this, Rey? Huh? You see what I've done to your former tag team partner? I left him layin' like the rat that he is!

Heat from the crowd, but Chavo talks over it as he yells down the hard camera...

Chavo Guerrero: And that's exactly what I'm gonna do to you at Judgment Day!

More heat, but Chavo looks as if he's said enough... until an idea pops into his head...

Chavo Guerrero: Infact... Vickie... let's show all these people exactly what's gonna happen to Rey...

Chavo tosses the mic towards Vickie, and then he places a foot on the motionless Kidman's chest, before he uses his fingers to count to ten as Vickie shouts...

Vickie Guerrero: Uno... Dos... Tres... Cuatro... Cinco... Seis... Siete... Ocho... Nueve... DIEZ!

It's relentless heat from the crowd, but Chavo and Vickie don't care, simply smiling through it. Still stood with one foot on Kidman's chest, Chavo opens his hands and soaks in the jeers, before he stares at the hard camera and yells...

“You're history Rey! History!”

And it's to the sound of boos that we head for a commercial.

*Commercial*

We return to see a smiling Kristal Marshall, stood outside an office door, which has a nameplate on it that reads “SmackDown General Manager”...


Kristal Marshall: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to SmackDown. I'm standing outside the office of SmackDown General Manager, Teddy Long, and I'm going to try and grab a word with him.

Kristal knocks on the door and pushes it open, and when she enters the room, we see Teddy Long stood talking to someone. As the camera focuses, we see that it’s Doug Williams, the British competitor who faced Randy Orton on Raw a few weeks ago during the WWE’s tour of the United Kingdom. Williams and Teddy are in conversation, sharing a smile about both something, until both turn and see the surprised Kristal standing in the doorway…

Kristal Marshall: Oh! Oh, Mr. Long, I’m sorry, you’ve got company. I can come back at another time, or-

Teddy Long: Nah, nah, c’mon right in Kristal! While you’re here I want’cha to meet somebody.

Waving her cameraman forward, Kristal approaches the two men…

Teddy Long: Kristal, I wanna welcome you to the newest member of the SmackDown roster, Doug Williams.

There’s a small pop from inside the arena as Doug and Kristal exchange pleasantries…

Teddy Long: After I saw Doug’s performance on Raw a few weeks ago, I thought I would try see if I could bring ‘im in. And what with all the confusion goin’ on over on Raw just now, I managed to pull it off.

Doug and Teddy share a smile...

Kristal Marshall: Oh, great! Uh… Doug, do you any words for us on your first night with SmackDown?

Surprised, Williams rubs his jaw for a few seconds, pausing to find the right words...

Doug Williams: Uh, well… you’ve caught me a little off guard here. All I can say is that I can't wait to get myself in the ring and compete with some of the talent here on SmackDown. It's a great roster, and I'm excited to be a part of it.

Pop from inside the arena...

Teddy Long: Alright. Well, hey, listen Doug, I promised my girl Kristal here an interview, so we’re gonna have to cut this short. But welcome aboard, it’s great to have ya’ here on Friday nights!

Understanding completely, Williams picks up a folder of papers from off Teddy's desk, before he offers Teddy his hand...

Doug Williams: Thanks for the opportunity, Teddy. I won’t let you down.

Teddy Long: I know you won’t, playa.

And with a shake of the hand, Williams heads for the door, flashing a quick smile at Kristal as their paths cross. Teddy watches Williams leave, nodding to himself, proud of his latest acquisition, before he snaps back into things and turns towards Kristal…

Teddy Long: Now, Kristal. You wanted to talk to me about somethin’?

Kristal Marshall: Well Teddy, it’s been one month now since you returned from your medical suspension and regained control of Friday Night SmackDown. And that means three things. It’s been one month since The Undertaker vanished, it’s been one month since you indefinitely suspended Umaga for his actions… and it’s been one month since Chris Benoit was injured by Edge. Do you have any comment or update on any of those situation?

Pausing, Teddy let's out a sigh...

Teddy Long: Well, let’s see… The Undertaker? I really don’t have anythin’ to add to that. I mean, you know how it is wit’ him, he does his own thing. He vanished, and nobody’s seen or heard from ‘im since. I’m sure he’ll be back at some point, but when that might be… I just don’t know.

Teddy shakes his head, annoyed about the next subject matter...

Teddy Long: As for Umaga, I’m still tryin’ to figure out what kinda punishment to give him and that handler of his, Estrada. I’ve been real busy this month tryin’ to clear up the mess Jonathan Coachman left behind to deal with those two playas right now. Maybe after Judgment Day I’ll sit down and see what I can come up with. And Chris Benoit…

A loud pop from inside the arena cuts Teddy off, something the G.M. acknowledges with a nod and a smile…

Teddy Long: Chris Benoit… well, we all know how passionately Chris spoke about wantin’ one more run at the title before hangin’ it up this summer. And I’m gonna help him in any way I can to make sure that happens.

Kristal looks to bring the mic back towards her, only for Teddy to move to continue talking...

Teddy Long: And lemme give ya’ a lil’ exclusive right here, Kristal. I can reveal that at some point tonight, somebody big is gonna make his return from injury… just in time to insert themselves into a match at Judgment Day.

A massive cheer from inside the arena, the fans clearly assuming Teddy means that Chris Benoit is on his way back tonight, something that Kristal feels as well...

Kristal Marshall: Wow, really? I mean… it’s Chris Benoit, right? Benoit’s comin’ back tonight and you’re gonna put him in the World Heavyweight Championship Match at Judgment Day, right!?

Laughing, Teddy holds out his hands, calling for calm...

Teddy Long: Whoa, whoa, whoa… hold on a second there. Now, I never said that. Listen, it’s just like I said… somebody big is comin’ back tonight. And I’m sure you and everybody else are gonna find out soon enough.

Oh Teddy, you tease. Disappointed that she couldn’t get the full scoop, Kristal looks down on the ground and ponders, saying to herself over and over again “Somebody big?”, which causes Teddy to chuckle, and it’s on the confused face of our interviewer that we cut away.

And it’s to the communal locker room we go, where we see Finlay sat on a chair, untying the laces of his boots, while nearby, The Little Bastard has a towel wrapped around his waist and is drying his hair with a hand towel, having clearly just stepped out of the shower. As the little guy dries off and Finlay removes his boots, a shaddow is cast over the pair, with Finlay looking up and the camera panning to reveal... that The Full Blooded Italians have entered the room. With Santino Marella stood upfront alongside Trinity, Big Vito stands behind, constantly looking over his shoulder, while Nunzio and Tony Mamaluke scout the room, looking inside lockers and behind clothes for something...


Finlay: What in the...? What the hell are you eijits playin' at? She's not even allowed in here! Get the hell out!

Santino and Trinity turn and look at each other, but Santino quickly shakes it off and presses on with business...

Santino Marella: Ah, Mr. Finlay, I can-ah see you are-ah stressed. 'Dis is of course-ah natural given your recent... problem.

Standing up from his chair, Finlay steps forward to get in Santino's face...

Finlay: What are ye' talkin' about? What problem?

Santino Marella: Your-ah problem with Kane. But I, 'de great Santino Marella, can-ah help you with 'dis.

Looking Santino, and then Vito up and down, Finlay flashes that toothy smirk of his, shaking his head in disbelief...

Finlay: I don't want... or need your help.

Turning his back on them, Finlay moves to return to his seat, but Santino steps forward and grabs Finlay by the arm, something which draws a glare from Finlay...

Santino Marella: Mr. Finlay, please-ah... hear me out. You are of course-ah scared of Kane, there is no shame in that. But 'De F.B.I., we can offer you... protection... from Kane. For a small fee, of course.

Exhaling loudly from his nostrils, Finlay rubs his jaw, stifling a laugh, but at the same, considering things with a sense of intrigue...

Finlay: You five... are gonna protect me... from Kane?

Santino Marella: Si.

Finlay: And this small fee... how much are we talkin'?

Big Vito leans forward, whispering in Santino's ear...

Santino Marella; We will-ah protect you for-

All of a sudden, the lights go out just like before, and once again we're plunged into darkness except for that strange red glow. Screams and shrieks are heard, a loud commotion breaking out, people running around like crazy in the darkness... and then just like that... the lights come back. Finlay of course has stood his ground, looking around, shillelagh in his hand, ready for an attack... but there's no sign of anybody. Indeed, it looks as if Finlay is alone... until he turns and looks in the far away corner of the locker room... where we see the entire membership of The F.B.I., and of course The Little Bastard, all huddled in the corner, holding each other dear, shaking in fear. There's a few laughs from inside the arena, but Finlay fails to see the funny side, as he cracks his shillelagh of the chair he was sat on then storms out the room, the camera hearing him shout...

Finlay: Some bloody protection!

Another set of laughs, with the camera looking back on the huddled mass of bodies in the corner, everyone still shaking with fear, with Santino too scared to even open his eyes, and it's on that ridiculous sight that we head back into the arena.

And hear...

”OH YEAH!”

*LIVE FOR THE MOMENT...*

A great cheer as the fans rise for the arrival of Matt Hardy, the United States Champion bursting into the arena, firing up the crowd. Hardy encourages the crowd to up the volume, before he flashes the “V1” hand signal and then heads for the ring...


Michael Cole: Wow, what a statement from Teddy Long. Somebody is making a return to Friday Night SmackDown tonight, and it looks like me and Kristal Marshall were on the same page. Could it be Chris Benoit?

Tazz: Naw, I mean... naw. Really? You think so?

Michael Cole: I think there's a chance!

John Bradshaw Layfield: Will you quit talkin' about Chris Benoit? Honestly, you sound as stupid as that bimbo with the microphone. Benoit's done, his career is over, just forget about him. C'mon, we've got a King of the Ring qualifier here, how 'bout we act professional and do our jobs here, huh?

Michael Cole: Nothin' wrong with a little speculation, partner. But you're right, Matt Hardy is in action right now in a King of the Ring qualifier with William Regal. These two fought on the first SmackDown after WrestleMania, and it was a real hard hittin' matchup.

Tazz: Damn right it was. And now, with the stakes so much more higher given there's a chance to advance in the King of the Ring, I'm expectin' more of the same right here.

*VILLIAN...*

And now a pretty decent level of heat as The Bluebloods make their entrance, with the man in action tonight, William Regal leading the way, while the menacing figures of Paul Burchill and Dave Taylor follow him down the aisle...


Michael Cole: As we said, it was a very hard hittin’ matchup the last time these two met, and that’s exactly the kinda style Regal excels at. A stiff, crafty veteran, Regal made his first King of the Ring appearance back in 2002, and of course last year, he was ‘knighted’ by King Booker after Booker’s victory, spending most of 2006 as a member of King Booker’s Court.

Tazz: Yeah and don’t let that accent or that stiff upper lip fool ya’. This guy is as tough as they come, a real legit fighter outta the streets of England, and he’s got a real shot at winnin’ this whole tournament.

John Bradshaw Layfield: And what an honour that would be. An English king, a real sense of class, a true vision of royalty. Just imagine a SmackDown ruled by King Regal, what a glorious sight that would be! Better than anythin’ this idiot Hardy could come up with…

Match 3: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
United States Champion Matt Hardy vs. William Regal w/ Dave Taylor and Paul Burchill

Wary of the presence of Burchill and Taylor at ringside, Hardy's eyes dart around the ringside area, meaning he spots when Burchill nips up onto the apron... but as Hardy chases him away, it allows Regal to club him from behind to get the match underway. An early advantage for Regal as he clubs Matt with stiff forearms to the back of the head, then lays in with knees to the face, before he shoves Hardy to the ropes. Shots to the body follow, before Regal sends Hardy across the ring... but Hardy avoids the clothesline with a baseball slide, nips back up... and takes Regal down with an inverted DDT! First cover of the match... Regal kicks out at two. Now it's Hardy who lands right hands to the face, before he fires Regal hard to the corner... and Regal staggers forward... into a big back body drop! Regal again staggers to his feet by the ropes... and Hardy then clotheslines him over the top rope to the outside! Regal hits the floor with a thud, with Burchill and Taylor quickly over to check on him, and with the numbers game on the floor not in his favour, Hardy waits and calls for Regal to get back in the ring. Eventually Regal is back on his feet, kicking the steel steps in annoyance, before he slowly re-enters the ring and calls for a test of strength from Matt. Both men offer up their hands... only for Regal to drill Hardy with a knee to the midsection! Once again Regal smacks his forearms repeatedly of the back of Matt's head, then he goes to work with those trademark uppercuts, before he hooks Hardy up for a suplex... but Hardy lands on his feet and shoves Regal into the ropes... into a hiptoss! Regal is back up... another hiptoss, and now Hardy comes off the ropes... snap legdrop! Another cover... another kick out at two by Regal.

Hardy now yanks Regal to his feet, landing a few forearms to the jaw, before Regal is sent to the corner and Matt follows in… corner clothesline… and Hardy hangs on… to nail the bulldog! Instead of going for the cover, Hardy heads to the corner, where he pushes himself onto the second rope and waits for Regal to make it back to his knees… elbow drop to the back of the head! And this time Hardy hooks the leg… 1… 2… Regal kicks out. Looking to stay in control, Hardy calls for Regal to rise, then he hooks him up… looking for the SIDE EFFECT… NO! Regal desperately throws elbows to the side of the head, breaking the hold… and then he takes Hardy down with a hard clothesline. A chance for Regal to regain control, and he starts by jamming his boot into Hardy’s throat in the corner, before he again tags Matt with those uppercuts. Regal then fires Hardy across the ring… but Hardy reverses and follows in… only for Regal to elevate him over the top rope… but Hardy lands on the apron! Hardy fires rights to the face, backing Regal away… only for Burchill to yank Matt off the apron, causing him to smash face first off the canvas! The ref never saw it, and now Hardy is writhing on the floor in pain, with Regal quick to head outside and take advantage. Kicks to the gut cause Hardy to slump against the barricade, and he’s in bad shape as Regal backs away, lines him up… and races in… KNEE TO THE SKULL... NO! Hardy avoids it… and Regal smacks off the barricade! Regal limps in pain, and now Hardy fights back to his feet, knocking Regal down with a right, then he fights his way free, throwing wild elbows and punches to Burchill and Taylor who were loitering nearby. With all three of The Bluebloods shaking away the cobwebs, Hardy nips up onto the apron, climbs to the top rope… steadies himself… then he flies… MOONSAULT… TAKES OUT ALL THREE! An incredible risk from Hardy as he comes off the top rope with a moonsault to the floor, and as we go to a commercial, all four men are down, although Hardy is already dragging himself back to his feet.

*Commercial*

But when we return, Hardy is down and trapped in a seated surfboard, and we see footage from during the commercial that shows once both men made it back into the ring, Hardy looked to come off the ropes, only for Dave Taylor to trip him up, allowing Regal to gain the upperhand. Regal has the hold locked in tight, stretching Hardy’s body, with Matt struggling to find a way to break free. Regal now falls onto his back, lifting Hardy skyward, increasing the pressure, with Hardy repeatedly saying “No!” when asked If he wants to submit. Regal continues to apply the pressure, but with the crowd urging Hardy to escape, Matt tries to shake himself free… and eventually he manages to roll all the way over and break the hold! Both men back on their feet quickly, with Matt tagging right hands… until a knee to the midsection stops the momentum! Regal quickly hooks Matt up… for a double underhook suplex! Here’s a cover… 1… 2… Hardy kicks out! Annoyed, Regal quickly yanks Matt up then tosses him through the ropes, before he then grabs the attention of the ref. This allows Burchill and Taylor to move in, laying into Matt with a flurry of stomps, before they yank the US Champion up… and ram him shoulder first off the ringpost! Hardy cries out in pain, but Burchill rolls him back into the ring and Regal goes for the cover… another kickout at two. Now Regal looks to target the left arm of Hardy, aiming boots to it, then dropping knees across it, before he scoops Matt up and takes him down with a shoulderbreaker for another two count. Regal continues to try and wear Hardy down with high impact moves, nailing a German suplex and then a single arm DDT, both for near falls, before he ends a Hardy rally with a falling neckbreaker.

Regal is firmly in control now, and he again tags Matt with uppercuts against the turnbuckle, before going for the Irish whip across… but when Regal follows in… he runs right into a boot to the face! Regal stumbles back, but charges again… another boot to the face! Now Hardy fights from the corner, tagging Regal with right hands, before he goes for the Irish whip off the ropes… but Regal hangs on, twists the arm… then takes Hardy down with the REGAL CUTTER! It could be over… 1… 2… Hardy rolls a shoulder! Regal groans in frustration, adamant it was three, but he’s told it was just two as Hardy survives. Realising he has to wear Hardy down some more, Regal goes back to work on the arm, driving the point of his elbow into the top of Hardy’s shoulder, then he grabs the arm and drops down into a hammerlock. Hardy cries out in pain as Regal wrenches on the arm, trying to make Hardy submit, but Matt fights it, hanging in there, not giving in to the pain. Regal shouts “Tap! Hurry up and bloody tap!”, but time and time again Matt shouts “No!” when asked the question by the ref. The crowd again do their best to lift Hardy, encouraging him, and eventually Hardy is able to make a move, struggling back to his feet, drilling right hands to the face in an effort to break free… only for Regal to smack another uppercut to the jaw! Hardy stumbles back, but Regal grabs the wrist and looks for the Irish whip off the ropes… but Hardy hangs on… and counters with the SIDE EFFECT!

Both men are down and facing the ref’s count, but finally there’s a way for Matt to get back into the match. At the count of seven, both men make it back up, with Hardy beating Regal to the punch, landing three rights in a row, backing Regal to the ropes, before he fires him off the opposite side… no, Regal reverses… only for Hardy to nail a flying forearm! Hardy bursts back to his feet, knocking Regal down with a clothesline… and a second clothesline puts Regal down once more. Kicks drive Regal to the corner, where he’s sent to across the ring… and Matt follows in with a clothesline… and hangs on for the bulldog! Hardy hooks the leg… 1… 2… Regal kicks out! Looking to build momentum, Hardy plants Regal with a scoop slam, before he climbs to the second rope… FLYING LEGDROP connects! Another pinfall… 1… 2… this time Regal rolls a shoulder! Sensing the end could be near, Matt is back on his feet, calling for Regal to rise… but once again, Paul Burchill is up on the apron! Hardy sees him, and points and yells for Burchill to get down… but this distraction allows Regal to charge… but this time Hardy sidesteps it… and Regal crashes into Burchill… sending him flying to the floor! Regal stumbles back to the centre of the ring… kick… TWIST OF FATE… NO! Regal twists through, drills Hardy with a knee to the gut to double him over, then Regal comes off the ropes… KNEE TREMBLER! Regal crushes Hardy’s skull, and now he rolls him over and hooks the leg… 1… 2… Hardy somehow rolls a shoulder! Regal can’t believe it, furious that somehow, Hardy rolled a shoulder before the three count! Storming back to his feet, Regal gets right in the referee’s face, and soon Taylor is on the apron to protest as well. As the ref tries to get Taylor to drop back down, he’s got his back to the ring… which allows Regal to reach into his tights and bring out a pair of BRASS KNUCKS! Regal casually slips them on, and now he waits for Hardy to rise… before making is move… POWER OF THE PUNCH… NO! Hardy ducks underneath… kick… TWIST OF FATE!! Hardy gets all of it, the commotion enough to cause the referee to turn around just as Hardy hooks the leg… 1… 2… 3!

Winner: Matt Hardy @ 13.38

Hardy gets the win in what was a highly competitive match, once again impressing all with his spirit and resilience. Hardy rolls free of Regal and then makes it back to his knees, before he’s handed his title by the referee. Hardy is back on his feet, his hand raised in the air, accepting the cheers of the crowd… before suddenly the cheers turn to commotion… as The Miz has stormed the ring…a and he clobbers Hardy from behind! Miz knocks Hardy down to the mat, and he lays in with stomp after stomp, Michelle McCool alongside him, encouraging Miz to lay in with the boots, before Miz now drops down and scoops up the United States Championship. Calling for Hardy to rise, Miz stands ready, poised to strike… and when Hardy stumbles up… MIZ CRACKS THE UNITED STATES TITLE OFF HARDY’S SKULL!!

All kinds of heat breaks out as Miz damn near takes Matt’s head off with his own title, and now Miz stands over Hardy, title high in the air, revelling in the jeers of the crowd, before he’s handed a mic by McCool…


The Miz: Really, Matt? Really? NINE days from Judgment Day, NINE days ‘til that United States Title is mine… and you’re worryin’ about the King of the Ring?

Looking towards McCool, the pair shake their heads…

The Miz: REALLY? You’ve battled all your career to win a title like that, and now you’re this close to losin’ it… you’re not even payin’ me your undivided attention?

Miz now crouches down, grabbing Hardy by the jaw, straightening his head…

The Miz: Do I have your attention now, Matt? Huh? How ‘bout all you people? Huh? Have I got your attention now?

Reaching down, Miz gives Hardy a slap across the face, but it does little to rile Hardy from his unconsciousness…

The Miz: When are you gonna wake up and realise Matt that I’m not just a reality star… I’m the guy that’s gonna take that title away from you? And you know why I’m gonna take that title away? ‘Cause I’m The Miz…

Miz now stands triumphant and yells…

The Miz: And I’m… AWE… SOME!!

And now Miz scoops up the United States Championship from off the mat, staring down at it for a few seconds, before he holds it high above his head and says…

The Miz: And I’m the next… United States Champion.

*REALITY…*

A chilling statement from Miz, fully emphasising just how serious a threat he is to Matt Hardy and the United States Championship. Lingering in that pose for a few more seconds, Miz finally brings the title down from above his head and arrogantly drops it across Hardy’s chest, before he and McCool make their exit, leaving the referee to try and bring Hardy back to life as we head to a commercial.

*Commercial*

We're back, and for some reason we hear the snap of a camera shutter going off, and a photographer calls out instructions. As the camera pans, we see that we're in the presence of a photo shoot featuring the WWE Tag Team Champions, The Hooligans. Stood infront of a backdrop, the trio of Paul London, Brian Kendrick and Ashley Massaro pose it up, although in-between snaps we see a glimpse of their true feelings about the occasion. While Kendrick seems to be revelling in the attention he's being paid, and Ashley seems to be enjoying it, in-between the fake smiles we see that Paul London is clearly feeling uncomfortable. As another round of snaps is taken, the photographer then calls for makeup, which draws a young lady into the frame, brush in hand, applying a dab of blusher to Ashley's face, giving everybody a chance to relax for a split second...


Brian Kendrick: So… what d’ya think, Paul? This whole photo shoot stuff’s pretty cool, huh?

Full of enthusiasm, Kendrick looks around the set in awe, while London nervously rubs the back of his neck...

Paul London: Uh, yeah… I guess. But, I mean, what’s this all about? Why are we in a photo shoot? I mean, we’ve never been in one before, and I don’t see-

Brian Kendrick: Exactly! We’ve never been in one before! The Hooligans, Brian Kendrick and Paul London, the WWE Tag Team Champions… and we’ve never even had a photo shoot before! I mean, we’ve never been on the front cover or the centrefold of WWE magazine, not even an article on wwe.com!

Two more women now approach the scene, handing London and Kendrick new shirts to put on, with both men continuing their conversation as they go through a wardrobe change...

Brian Kendrick: And do you know what’s comin’ up in nine days’ time?

Paul London: Yeah… Judgment Day.

Brian Kendrick: Uh huh. And you know what happened at Judgment Day last year, right?

Wardrobe change complete, the two girls look to make their exit, but as the one who was attending to Kendrick turns to leave, Brian slips her a card and makes the motion of a telephone beside his ear, mouthing “Call me...” as she goes...

Paul London: Yeah. We won these titles.

Brian Kendrick: Exactly! Think about it, a whole year as WWE Tag Team Champions, and not one photo shoot! I mean c’mon, guys like Batista get this kinda thing happenin’ to ‘em all the time. Just 'cause he's the champion, while we're the guys out there bustin' our asses to entertain the fans. Why isn’t there more attention bein’ paid to guys like us?

Unable to answer, London simply shakes his head and shrugs his shoulders...

Brian Kendrick: That’s why I scored us this feature with WWE Magazine. I want them to highlight and recognise out achievements, just like we deserve.

Having finished with Ashley, the makeup artist now moves onto Kendrick, which immediately draws Kendrick’s attention, the two locking eyes together, with Kendrick giving the girl a quick wink and a smile, causing her to giggle and blush…

Paul London: Yeah, but… do we really need all this? I mean, isn’t bein’ champions and holding these titles recognition enough?

Getting annoyed now, Kendrick turns and glares at London...

Brian Kendrick: No, Paul… it’s not. We deserve better than we’ve been gettin’. And I’m gonna make sure it happens for us. I mean you're havin' fun, right Ashley?

Kendrick turns back towards the makeup artist as she applies the finishing touches...

Ashley Massaro: Oh, yeah. I love photo shoots.

Brian Kendrick: Y'see. And Ashley and the rest of the divas get to do this kinda thing all the time. I mean come on, the eye candy gettin' more photo ops than the tag champs? I don't think so, right Paul?

Kendrick laughs to himself, clearly finding that situation funny, but it's no joke for Ashley who looks shocked, almost in disbelief at what Kendrick just said...

Ashley Massaro; Excuse me? Eye candy?

???: More like dumb bimbo.

A voice is heard off camera, and the camera quickly reveals it was the words of Layla... who is accompanied by The New Breed. Looking as smug as always, Layla can't help but scoff as she looks Ashley up and down, with Elijah Burke shaking his head in embarrassment for the champs, while Monty Brown stares as serious and intimidating as always...

Layla: I mean honestly, who'd want to see someone like you in a photo shoot? If they put you on the cover it'll probably be the worst selling issue of WWE Magazine in history.

Ashley glares at Layla and looks to take a step forward, only for London to put an arm across her chest, keeping Ashley in place...

Elijah Burke: And what are you two meant to be doin'? Modellin'? Is this what you're gonna fall back on after we beat you for those titles?

Burke and Layla share a laugh...

Elijah Burke; You already two damn small to be wrestlers, you might as well find out you're too damn ugly to be models.

Annoyed, London and Kendrick both shake their heads and grit their teeth, but Kendrick is soon being eyed up and down by Layla, who stares at Brian with a glint in her eye...

Layla: Oh, I don't know Elijah. I think Brian here could grace the cover of any magazine he wanted to.

Proud of the compliment, Kendrick turns towards London and Ashley and nods in approval, with Ashley rolling her eyes...

Paul London: Look cut the crap. What are you guys doin' here? What do you want?

With Layla and Kendrick both engaged with each other, it's left to Burke to nonchalantly shrug his shoulders and protest his innocence...

Elijah Burke: Nothin' man, nothin'. We just wanted to make sure you boys were doin' alright. I mean, we saw that match you had last week. Well... I did. Monty here got so damn bored he fell asleep half way through.

Again Burke laughs, this time Burke joining him with a smirk...

Elijah Burke: But I was watchin' closely... and you two... you ain't exactly on the same page now, are ya'? I mean, you ain't exactly all that much of a team anymore. And we don't want that. We don't want any excuses, we don't want any cheap outs. We want you two united as one... so we can break you in half at Judgment Day.

Hearing this, Kendrick breaks his gaze with Layla and gets back to business...

Brian Kendrick: Hey, listen... you don't need to worry about that. The Hooligans are stronger than ever, and we're gonna prove it when we kick your asses and hang onto our titles.

Taken aback, Burke can't help but laugh and raise his eyebrows...

Elijah Burke: Oh really? Well... you make sure you stay that way. You try not to let all those flashin' lights distract you now, ya' hear? C'mon guys, I think I've seen enough.

Burke and Brown give the champs once last menacing stare before they make their exit, with Layla following, until she puts on the breaks and turns back towards Kendrick...

Layla: Y'know, I really don't know why you bother with these two, Brian. If last week taught me anything... it's that you don't need them. I mean, by winning last week you clearly proved you’re the better man. I just don't really see the attraction in these two.

Hearing those words, you can see that they play on Kendrick's mind as he considers them closely, but when Layla innocently shrugs and turns to leave again, she has time for last comment...

Layla: See you around, cutie.

And with a flirtatious smile, Layla makes her exit, leaving Kendrick behind, in a total daze, a huge grin on his face, looking like he's on cloud nine...

Brian Kendrick: Wow... cutie?

London and Ashley both sigh and shake their head, annoyed that Kendrick bought what Layla was saying, with Kendrick quickly snapping out of it...

Brian Kendrick: Alright. How 'bout we finish this photo shoot then?

And that's the final straw as London and Ashley decided they've had enough...

Paul London: No way.

Ashley Massaro: Not a chance.

And both storm off the set, leaving a stunned Kendrick behind...

Brian Kendrick: What? Guys? Aw, c'mon! Don't listen to 'em guys! It's not my fault she thinks I'm cute!

But his shouts are no use as London and Ashley are long gone, leaving a disappointed Kendrick behind. Throwing his arms up in the air, Kendrick sighs and shakes his head, but he soon perks up again as the wardrobe girl from earlier re-enters the scene with a hanger in her hand...

Brian Kendrick: You think I'm cute too, right?

The girl blushes and turns away, unable to speak, but it's clear that she's smitten with Kendrick, the two smiling at each other, and it's on that rather nauseating image that we head elsewhere.

And we go back into the arena to hear...

”ONE, TWO, YOU HEAR THE CLOCK TICKIN'...”

*I'M COMIN'...*


Out through the inflatable tunnel bursts Montel Vontavious Porter, as always with his sunglasses and bling on, a far greater look of confidence on his face than we've seen in recent matches. The reason for that confidence soon becomes clear as following him out of the tunnel comes Jonathan Coachman, King Booker and Queen Sharmell, the members of The Coachman Coalition present for the first time as a united front...


Michael Cole: Ever since WrestleMania, there's not been a whole lot of success for those two men, King Booker, and the man who's in action tonight, 'MVP'. Infact, it perhaps sunk to a new low last week when Booker was knocked out of the King of the Ring tournament at the first hurdle. What I wanna know is can Jonathan Coachman get these two men back to winning ways now that he's in their corner?

Tazz: I dunno about that. I mean, what a moment it was last week when Tommy Dreamer knocked Booker outta the tournament, but tonight, 'MVP' is gonna need all the help he can get to make it past Sabu. I think The Extremists just might have these guys' numbers, and I don't think anybody would be shocked to see 'MVP' follow Booker outta the King of the Ring.

John Bradshaw Layfield: I sure as hell would! I can gurantee ya', it ain't gonna happen. Tazz, your boys got lucky last week, but this week your lucks gonna run out. Last week was a fluke, it was a mistake, and I know 'Coach' has got 'MVP' ready to make sure it doesn't happen again.

*HUKA BLUES...*

A pretty respectable pop asThe Extremists step into the arena, with the three men stopping under the SmackDown fist as Sabu crouches down and points to the heavens, Tommy Dreamer lets out a roar, while The Sandman smashes a beer can off his forehead then thrusts his kendo stick high in the air...


Michael Cole: You talk about some of the biggest upsets in sports history, and I think Tommy Dreamer beating King Booker last week has to be up there with 'em. I didn't give Dreamer any chance last week, but he got the job done. Can Sabu overcome the same odds and advance to the final sixteen of the King of the Ring?

Tazz: Damn right he can! Sabu is nuts, he's insane, he's fearless, he don't give a damn what he puts his body through as long as he gets the job done. Booker underestimated Tommy Dreamer last week, and if 'MVP' does the same thing this week, Sabu's gonna advance.

John Bradshaw Layfield: I can't believe I work on the same show as these three. I mean, look at that idiot Sandman! I hope that when these three step into the ring with The Coachman Coalition at Judgment Day that we finally see the end of these three. I'd love it if 'MVP' did more than kick Sabu outta the King of the Ring, I wanna see 'im kick 'im outta the WWE permanently!

Match 4: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
Montel Vontavious Porter
w/ Jonathan Coachman, King Booker and Queen Sharmell vs. Sabu w/ Tommy Dreamer and The Sandman

Both men circle the ring until they come together with a tie up, which ‘MVP’ quickly turns into a standing waistlock, then into a takedown, looking to keep Sabu grounded. Sabu manages to slip free and nip back up, rocking ‘MVP’ with right hands before he goes for the Irish whip to the corner… ‘MVP’ reverses, only for Sabu to jump to the second rope… springboard back elbow! Sabu looks to quicken the pace, tagging ‘MVP’ with rights, before he fires him off the ropes… ‘MVP’ reverses… then sends Sabu flying with a back body drop! Quick to pounce, ‘MVP’ yanks on a headlock, wrenching on the neck, again trying his best to keep Sabu grounded. Once more Sabu struggles back to his feet, and this time he shoves ‘MVP’ into the ropes… but ‘MVP’ bolws him over with a shoulderblock! ‘MVP’ now heads for the ropes, looking for a high impact move… but Sabu avoids him with a leapfrog… then sends him flying with a hiptoss! ‘MVP’ staggers back to his feet… but Sabu nails a dropkick to the back… that sends ‘MVP’ tumbling through the ropes to the floor! Booker and ‘Coach’ quickly head over to help ‘MVP’ back to his feet, but as the huddle takes place outside, Tommy Dreamer grabs a steel chair… and slides it into the ring? The ref questions what on earth is going on, but we soon find out as Sabu sets up the chair… comes off the ropes… jumps onto the chair… then the top rope… before he wipes out everybody with a SOMMERSAULT SENTON! The crowd love the high flying nature of Sabu’s offence, with Sabu quickly dragging ‘MVP’ back up, rolling him into the ring… then using the ropes for a slingshot legdrop! Here’s a cover… 1… 2… ‘MVP’ kicks out. Looking to stay on the attack, Sabu lands stomps to the body, then he yanks ‘MVP’ up, tags a few right hands, then goes for the Irish whip off the ropes… ‘MVP’ reverses… but again Sabu jumps to the second rope… and this time flies with a SPRINGBOARD TORNADO DDT! ‘MVP’ is planted to the canvas, Sabu hooks the leg… 1… 2… ‘MVP’ kicks out!

‘MVP’ is reeling, and Sabu tags him with kicks and rights against the ropes, before he goes for the Irish whip… ‘MVP’ reverses… but misses with a clothesline… but he doesn’t miss the snap overhead belly to belly! Moving quickly, ‘MVP’ pounces, laying in with stomps to the body, before he drops down, grabs a handful of hair, and lays in with stiff shots to the forehead. ‘MVP’ then starts to target the ribs, dropping knees and elbows, and laying in with more stomps, before he takes Sabu up and down with a backbreaker. Porter then tosses Sabu through the ropes, distracting the referee as Booker moves in, yanking Sabu up… and driving him spine first into the announce desk! Dreamer and Sandman race around, but Booker quickly backs away, allowing ‘MVP’ to head outside and roll Sabu back in for a near fall. Further near falls come from a release German suplex and a flapjack, before Sabu is shoved into the corner, kept in place by a few well-placed right hands, before ‘MVP’ backs up… races in… big boot to the face! Sabu slumps to the canvas, ‘MVP’ drags him away from the ropes and hooks the leg… 1… 2… Sabu rolls a shoulder! Seeking a way to pile on the punishment, ‘MVP’ now hooks Sabu up with a single leg Boston crab, again applying pressure to Sabu’s core as he sits back and bends Sabu in half.

Sabu reaches out for the ropes, but he’s a long way from safety, although with Dreamer and Sandman acting as cheerleaders on the outside, the crowd try to rally Sabu back to a vertical base… and it appears to be working as he scratches and claws… and finally grabs the bottom rope. Frustrated, ‘MVP’ lays in with more knees and stomps, before he yanks Sabu up and looks for the Irish whip to the corner… but Sabu jumps to the second rope… and nails ‘MVP’ with a springboard leg lariat! Both men are down, the ref giving them the count, and at six there’s finally some movement as both make it back up, trading right hands, until Sabu rattles off three in a row, backing ‘MVP’ to the corner. Sabu then sends Porter for the ride and follows in… right into a boot to the face! Sabu stumbles back, and ‘MVP’ charges… into a big back body drop! Sabu now rattles off right hands, but ‘MVP’ ducks one… then takes Sabu up and down with a side suplex! ‘MVP’ is now back on his feet, and he comes off the ropes… “BALLIN’!”… and goes for the BALLIN’ ELBOW… but Sabu rolls to safety! ‘MVP’ stumbles back up, only for Sabu to plant him with a scoop slam. Sabu now heads outside and climbs upstairs… and goes for a MOONSAULT… NO! This time it’s ‘MVP’ who rolls to safety, and as Sabu makes it back to his knees, Porter makes his move… DRIVE-BY KICK!! ‘MVP’ damn near takes Sabu’s head off, and he crawls into the lateral press for the 1… 2… 3!

Winner: Montel Vontavious Porter @ 05.38

A confidence boosting win for 'MVP' as he advances to the next round, much to the delight of 'Coach' and Booker as they enter the ring and celebrate with the victor. On the outside, Sandman checks on Dreamer, but with no response from Dreamer, the rage starts to build inside of Sandman, and he soon picks up his kendo stick... and slides into the ring! 'MVP', Booker and 'Coach' are oblivious to the fact that Sandman is stood behind, cane in hand, ready to strike... until Sharmell starts to desperately shriek for the trio to turn around... and when they do... 'MVP' gets the KENDO STICK SMACKED OFF HIS SKULL! Booker is slow to react, but when he does, Sandman drills the KENDO STICK INTO THE MIDSECTION... AND THEN CRACKS IT ACROSS BOOKER'S BACK!!

Sandman is going crazy here, the crowd loving it... and now he's spotted 'Coach' cowering in the corner! Waving the cane, Sandman points towards 'Coach' the crowd on their feet, cheering Sandman on, dying to see him dish out some punishment to 'Coach'... but soon those cheers turn to gasps, as in the ring, stood behind Sandman... it's Mark Henry! The returning Mark Henry is in the ring, and when Sandman turns to see what the commotion is... HENRY WIPES SANDMAN OUT WITH A MASSIVE BODYBLOCK! A thunderous collision, with Sandman sent flying to the canvas, the crowd booing like hell, while 'Coach' is loving it, back on his feet, encouraging Henry to do damage... and Henry obliges as he yanks Sandman off the mat, scoops him up... and delivers THE WORLD'S STRONGEST SLAM!!

Henry absolutely crushes Sandman, leaving him flattened on the canvas, and pretty soon, 'MVP' and 'Booker' are back on their feet, delighted to see that Henry is back from injury and on their team. Sharmell soon joins the quartet, and with 'Coach' stood in the middle, all five link hands and raise them high in the air. The heat is loud as hell, but The Coachman Coalition don't give a damn, as their final member has been revealed, and now they're standing tall while the bodies of their Judgment Day opponents lay down and out around the ringside area...


Michael Cole: Oh my God, I... I can't believe it! Mark Henry, we haven't seen him for almost a year, and now he's back, and he's the third member of The Coachman Coalition!

Tazz: And I guess he's the big return Teddy Long was talkin' about earlier? God, what a sight that is. King Booker, 'MVP' and Mark Henry, all on the same page!? You gotta be kiddin' me!

John Bradshaw Layfield: Ha ha! I think you just saw your boys' chances of winnin' at Judgment Day just go up in smoke! 'Coach' is a genius! He's had enough of people kickin' 'im when he's down, so he went out and found the biggest pick me up there ever was! I love it!

The heat continues to rain down on the ring, with 'Coach' looking delighted at how tonight has went. Having posed for long enough, Booker, 'MVP' and Henry all decide to make their exit, but the camera catches 'Coach' laying in with one last cheap shot with the boot on Sandman, before we head to a commercial.

*Video Package*​

We open to a dismal, rainy scene, a solemn church bell ringing loudly in the background. We slowly see peasants trudging through the rain and mud of what appears to be an eighteenth century town, everybody dressed like pilgrims of the time. As the camera pans, we see a rather portly town crier, who rings a handbell to a much faster beat than the previous church bell...

Town Crier: Hear ye! Hear ye! Thy day of reckoning is upon us!

We hear the clang of a nearby blacksmith hammering down on a piece of raw metal, with the close up revealing the blacksmith to be none other than SmackDown’s own Matt Hardy, dressed in the traditional garb...

Town Crier: Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age!

Hardy tosses his hammer aside and slowly trudges off camera, passing the town reverend, who just so happens to be Mr. Kennedy, with Kennedy also dressed in the church fashion of the time...

Town Crier: I tell thee my friends, do not fear thee who kill the body, and after that can do no more!

Kennedy glances down at the bible in his hands, then tosses it down into the mud, before he follows Hardy off camera...

Town Crier: But I will warn you whom to fear! Fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast thee into hell!

A man in a horse slowly approaches, the man being revealed as Batista. ‘The Animal’ quickly drops down off the horse, the buckle on his boots clunking heavily as he lands before he too walks off camera...

Town Crier: I tell thee, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak!

We now see Edge chopping wood, aggressively swinging an axe into a log set up on a stump, but he soon wipes the wet hair from his face, tosses the axe aside and exits the scene...

Town Crier: So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy!

King Booker and Queen Sharmell sit on thrones like a Mayor and Mayorness, with Booker soon standing up out of his chair, leaving Sharmell behind as he heads out of the frame...

Town Crier: For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.

The town magistrate is played by Chris Benoit, complete with wig, who suddenly sits upright from behind the bench of his courtroom and storms out of the building mid trial, leaving behind a full courtroom of confused people...

Town Crier: And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that rises from the bottomless pit will make war on them and conquer them and kill them!

We now see practically the entire SmackDown roster, all dressed for the time, stood surrounding the Town Crier, who now has a petrified look on his face…

Town Crier: Oh death, where is your victory? Oh death, where is your sting?

Suddenly, out of nowhere, the Town Crier is clobbered by Umaga, who is dressed as he normally would be. Umaga now stands with one foot on the chest of the crier, the camera looking down on him in pain, but he manages to get in the last word as he shouts...

”Judgment Day... is upon us!”



"WWE JUDGMENT DAY – MAY 20TH - LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW!"

*End Video Package*

From the video we once again cut to the corridors of the building, and once again we see Finlay and The Little Bastard walking along them. This time though, both are dressed in street clothes and are wheeling their suitcases along the floor, although in comical fashion the little guy’s suitcase is far too big for him to wheel at the same pace as Finlay. Stopping every now and then to mutter “Hurry up!”, Finlay has a stern look on his face, while The Little Bastard is worried, continually looking over his shoulder, no doubt fearing the worse...

Finlay: Hurry it up, will ya’? I’m not hangin’ around here any longer.

Still struggling with his bag, the little guy eventually drops it and falls over, causing Finlay to groan in frustration...

Finlay: Give it here! I’ll carry it. Next time, get a smaller-

And once again the lights go out, save for that eerie red glow. Finlay instantly stands on guard, readying himself, squinting, trying to see through the darkness...

Finlay: Kane! I know it’s you! C’mon, show yer’self!

There’s no response, as Finlay now starts reaching out and swinging his hands in the darkness, trying to find an answer as to what’s going on...

Finlay: Where are ya’, Kane? I’m not afraid of ya’!

And just like that, the lights come back on... and Kane is stood behind Finlay! The fans inside the arena let out a huge roar, but Finlay doesn’t hear it, as instead he continues to search infront and then side to side... until he finally turns... and Kane nails him with a massive right hand! The fight is on!

A brawl instantly breaks out, Kane and Finlay trading vicious shots with each other, but Kane starts to gain the upperhand, rattling off three shots to the face in quick succession, causing Finlay to stumble away. Kane is right on him though, grabbing Finlay by the head... then smashing him face first off a concrete wall! Finlay slumps against the wall, but as Kane moves back in, the crafty Irishman tackles him… and drives him into a nearby catering table! The table shatters from the weight of both men on top of it, and it gives Finlay a chance to stumble to his feet and try to escape.

But Finlay doesn’t get very far, as Kane grabs him from behind… wraps both hands around his throat… then launches Finlay spine first into a ladder! Finlay crumples to the floor in pain, but Kane is on the warpath, not letting up as he drills a big boot to the side of Finlay’s head. Still desperate to make an escape, Finlay’s starts to crawl along the floor, an evil laugh leaving Kane’s mouth as he follows… only for The Little Bastard to grab Kane by the leg! Kane drags the little guy along, trying to get to Finlay, but once again that damn leprechaun proves enough of a distraction… as from his knees, Finlay rears back… and nails Kane with a low blow!

Now it’s Kane who’s down on the floor, but this time there’s no attack from Finlay, as instead he grabs The Little Bastard and the two start running along the corridor, bursting through a door and then into the parking lot. Reaching into his pocket, Finlay grabs his keys and points at a nearby car, the lights flashing to suggest the doors are open. Finlay yells “Get in!”, and he and the leprechaun scramble inside… but as Finlay puts the keys in the ignition and turns… the engine doesn’t spark to life! Finlay tries again… and again… but he just can’t get the engine to turn over… BANG! Oh my God… Kane kicks in the passenger side window! Through the glass and carnage, Kane reaches in, grabbing Finlay, trying to drag him out through the broken window, but Finlay struggles to stay in his seat… and finally he gets the car to start! Sparking the engine to life, Finlay slams the car into drive and takes off, managing to lose Kane in the process! The car speeds off into the distance, leaving a frustrated Kane behind, but as he watches Finlay go, that sick, evil laugh of Kane breaks out once more, the laugh growing ever louder and more menacing, the camera staying focused on Kane as he maniacally laughs his head off, until we head back into the arena.

Where we hear…

*GONNA PUNCH SOMEONE TONIGHT…*

A pretty decent cheer as The Asian ******** enter the arena, Funaki and Jimmy Wang Yang heading down the aisle with matching cowboy hats, the pair slapping hands with as many ringside fans as they can…


Michael Cole: God, things are gettin' outta hand back there between Kane and Finlay! If that's what they're like just now, imagine what it's gonna be like when they meet at Judgment Day! But right now, we've got our final King of the Ring qualifier of the evening, and it features one of the men walking down to the ring right now, Jimmy Wang Yang.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Yeah but let's remember who he's up against. He's steppin' into the ring with one of the favourites to win whole damn thing, Mr. Kennedy! I don't know why he's even botherin' to come out here, this one's over already.

Tazz: Yeah, well you said that last week about King Booker and Tommy Dreamer, and we all know how that turned out. Jimmy's definitely got a chance here, he's got such a different style that he could catch Kennedy off guard, but even I gotta admit, if Jimmy pulls this off and beats Kennedy, it's gonna be an even bigger upset than Dreamer beatin' Booker.

”KEN – NAH – DAY!”

*TURN UP THE TROUBLE...*

As always, there's a loud initial pop as Mr. Kennedy strides into the arena, before the boos are soon heard, although perhaps not as much heat as in recent weeks, no doubt because of Kennedy's actions towards Edge last week. Stepping through the ropes, Kennedy takes one look at Jimmy and Funkai and can't help but let out an arrogant laugh, before he heads for the corner and climbs to the second rope to soak in the mixed response of the fans...


Michael Cole: I agree with you, Tazz, that Jimmy Wang Yang does indeed have a chance here, and I think it all has to do with the fact that Kennedy is so preoccupied right now with Judgment Day and the World Heavyweight Championship. We've seen Kennedy in recent weeks battle with Edge and Batista, we know he'll be involved in the contract signing later tonight, it could be the case that Kennedy doesn't have his full focus on the King of the Ring, and that could be the chance Jimmy needs.

Tazz: Exactly right, Cole. You see it all the time, guys underestimatin' their opponents, or they got their minds on other things and it winds up costin' 'em. I think that could happen right here, and I think Jimmy could take advantage.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Oh please, stop clutchin' at straws. I might not like the way he handled things with Edge last week, but I think this guy is the future of SmackDown, and he could be nine days away from becomin' World Heavyweight Champion. I don't think it matters what's on the line, the guy's just focused on winnin' right now, and that's bad news for anybody who steps in the ring with him.

Match 5: King of the Ring Qualifying Match – Round of 32
Jimmy Wang Yang
w/ Funaki vs. Mr. Kennedy

Taking a look at both Jimmy and Funkai, Kennedy can’t help but laugh to himself, before the pair start to circle the ring then snap into a tie up. Kennedy works into a standing side headlock, wrenching on the hold, until they back into the ropes and Jimmy fires Kennedy across… only for Kennedy to run Jimmy over with a shoulderblock! Quickening the pace, Kennedy heads for the ropes, but Jimmy nips up, avoids Kennedy with a leapfrog… then he knocks Kennedy down with a leg lariat. Kennedy crawls to the corner, where Jimmy snaps him back with a pair of rights, then he sends Kennedy for the ride… Kennedy reverses and follows in… right into a boot to the face! Kennedy stumbles back, allowing Yang to push himself onto the second rope… then fly with a diving headscissor takedown! Kennedy staggers to the ropes… and Jimmy puts him over the top rope with a clothesline! Kennedy sprawls on the floor, but when he’s back up, Jimmy is ready… and goes for a plancha… but Kennedy sidesteps… and Jimmy crashes to the floor! A painful landing for Jimmy, and Kennedy wastes no time in taking advantage, laying in with stomps to the body, before he rolls Jimmy back into the ring. Yanking Jimmy’s head against the bottom turnbuckle, Kennedy uses his boot to choke Yang, taking every second of the ref’s five count before he finally backs away. Kennedy then lines up… races in… and smashes Yang with the facewash! Kennedy quickly drags Jimmy from the corner, hooks the leg… 1… 2… Yang rolls a shoulder.

Kennedy now goes on the attack, laying in with boots, knees and rights to the face and body in the corner, before he takes Jimmy up and down with an inverted suplex, then follows with a snap DDT, both moves getting near falls. After a side slam backbreaker for another two count, Kennedy then locks Jimmy in an abdominal stretch, looking to wear Jimmy down. Jimmy groans in pain, but with Funaki urging the crowd to show their support, Yang feeds off the energy, and he starts searching for a way to break free… but Kennedy hangs in there. Jimmy tries for a hiptoss, but Kennedy blocks it… then he shoves Yang to the corner and follows in… right into a boot to the face! Jimmy now bursts from the corner… tornado DDT! Kennedy is planted, and now Jimmy goes for the cover… 1… 2… Kennedy kicks out! Jimmy yanks Kennedy up and uses kicks to back Kennedy to the corner, before he sends Kennedy across the ring… and follows in with a spinning wheel kick against the turnbuckle! Kennedy drops to a knee, and now Jimmy climbs to the top rope… looking for the MOONSAULT… NO! Before he can fly, Kennedy pushes Jimmy… crotching him on the top turnbuckle! Kennedy now grabs Yang… and brings him back down with a hangman’s neckbreaker! Jimmy is down and out, but Kennedy moves quickly, yanking Yang up… and hooking him in… MIC CHECK!! Yang is planted to the canvas, and Kennedy jams a forearm into Yang’s face as he gets the 1… 2… 3!

Winner: Mr. Kennedy @ 04.33

After a scare, Kennedy finally puts Yang away, safely through to the next round of the King of the Ring. Pushing himself back to his feet, Kennedy stands over Jimmy and looks down on him, rubbing his jaw in annoyance, before he heads for the corner, climbs to the second rope... and then reaches up to the rafters, calling for his microphone...


Mr. Kennedy: What you just saw... is the start of a history making month for me.

With an intense look in his eyes, Kennedy stares into a nearby camera...

Mr. Kennedy: A month that is gonna go down as one of the most dominant periods in WWE history.

Closing his eyes for just a second, Kennedy lets that last remark sink in, before he now looks out into the masses...

Mr. Kennedy: Y'see, I'm just nine – days – away from becomin' World Heavyweight Champion. Nine days 'til I roll into Judgment Day and fulfil my destiny. But I'm not done there. Oh no. Not a chance is that where it ends. I'm gonna do somethin' that's never been done before.

To emphasise his point, Kennedy wags a finger and then carries on...

Mr. Kennedy: 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin, Triple H, Bret Hart, they've all got somethin' in common. They all used the King of the Ring as a platform to bigger and better things. Well I'm gonna do things just that little – bit – different.

With a confident smirk, Kennedy pauses, building some anticipation...

Mr. Kennedy: I'm gonna go to Judgment Day, I'm gonna beat Batista and Edge, I'm gonna become World Heavyweight Champion, and then... then I'm gonna win the King of the Ring.

Another mixed response from the fans, some clearly wanting to see that while others can't think of anything worse...

Mr. Kennedy: And when I sit down on that throne, with the World Heavyweight Title on my shoulder, and they place that crown on my head, it will literally be...

Again Kennedy closes his eyes, almost as if he envisioning his coronation in his head...

Mr. Kennedy: The crowning moment... of the greatest run the WWE has ever seen.

Suddenly Kennedy snaps into a far more serious demeanour...

Mr. Kennedy: You're lookin' at the next World Heavyweight Champion... and you're lookin' at the next King of the Ring. And you better believe you're lookin' at the man who's gonna prove he's 'The Exellence of Execution', 'The Game', 'The Next Big Thing', all rolled into one, 'cause I am none other than... MIIISSSTTTEEERRRRRRRRR... KENNEDY!!

Pausing, Kennedy cups a hand to his ear, heating the smarks in the crowd yell “Kennedy!”, before he ever so slowly says...

Mr. Kennedy: KEN – NAH – DAY!!

*TURN UP THE TROUBLE...*

An emphatic statement of intent from Kennedy, a man determined to become World Heavyweight Champion and then cap it off by becoming King of the Ring. Kennedy points to the crowd, shouting at them “This is history in the makin'!”, before he finally drops down and heads for the ropes, and on that we head for another commercial.

*Commercial*

*Video Package*

Our video opens at the King of the Ring ’96, where ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin stands victorious, delivering the interview that launched his main event career…

Narrator: It’s a night where future legends make their mark...

“AUSTIN 3:16 SAYS I JUST WHIPPED YOUR ASS!”

We now head back to King of the Ring ’93, where Bret Hart puts Bam Bam Bigelow away with the winning victory roll...

Narrator: A night where icons are created…

“I’M THE BEST THERE IS, THE BEST THERE WAS, AND THE BEST THERE EVER WILL BE!”

King of the Ring ’01, where Edge puts Kurt Angle down with the Edgecution then crawls into the pin to get an emotional victory…

Narrator: A night when the stars of tomorrow shine bright...

“WELCOME TO THE ERA OF AWESOMENESS!”

And we now go to last year’s tournament final, where Booker T grabs the win over Bobby Lashley…

Narrator: A night to crown… a new king.

“BOW DOWN BEFORE YOUR KING!”

We now see flashing images of some of this year’s contenders, starting with Jeff Hardy, Montel Vontavious Porter, CM Punk and Matt Hardy…

Narrator: And this year, live on NBC, the WWE King of the Ring returns! It’s the one night Saturday Night’s Main Event spectacular where one man’s career is set to skyrocket!

More flashing images, this time it’s Bryan Danielson, Kenny Dykstra, Johnny Nitro and Mr. Kennedy…

Narrator: Eight men will battle to join the most exclusive of WWE clubs. Who will take King Booker’s crown and become the 2007 King of the Ring!?

Another round of flashing images, this time of former winners such as Steve Austin, Owen Hart, Edge, Bret Hart and King Booker…

Narrator: The King is dead…

More clips from last year, this time from Booker’s coronation ceremony, then a quick shot of him close to tears after his victory to clinch the World Heavyweight Championship…

“ALL HAIL KING BOO-KAH!”

”Long live… the King.”



"SATURDAY NIGHT’S MAIN EVENT – THREE HOUR KING OF THE RING SPECIAL – JUNE 2ND - LIVE ON NBC!"

*End Video Package*

We now cut to the announce desk to see the smiling faces of our commentary team…

Michael Cole: The King of the Ring continues to roll on, another three men advanced earlier this evening and took one step close to Saturday Night’s Main Event. Let’s take a look at how the SmackDown side of the bracket is shapin’ up…

King Booker vs. Tommy Dreamer
Jimmy Wang Yang vs. Mr. Kennedy

Matt Hardy vs. William Regal
Kane vs. Finlay

Gregory Helms vs. Shannon Moore
Brian Kendrick vs. Paul London

Bryan Danielson vs. Santino Marella
Montel Vontavious Porter vs. Sabu

Michael Cole: It’s startin’ to get very interesting in there, such a highly competitive field, especially given the fact that we’ve not only saw the United States Champion, Matt Hardy advance, we also had Mr. Kennedy and ‘MVP’ make it through.

Tazz: The SmackDown side of things is really startin' to heat up! I mean, we've got Kane, Brian Kendrick and Tommy Dreamer from last week, and now this week it really went up a notch with guys like Kennedy and Hardy makin' it through. I think we might have the next King of the Ring right here on SmackDown.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Ya' damn right we do, and his name's Mr. Kennedy! Forget guys like Hardy and Kane, Kennedy's your winner. The guy's too focused, the guy's too intense right now to let a chance like this pass 'im by. King Kennedy is comin', I guarantee it!

Michael Cole: The King of the Ring continues this Monday on Raw, and next week on SmackDown we've got the final qualifiers in the round of 32, we'll find out who the last two men to make it into the final sixteen are gonna be, you won't wanna miss that!

After a few seconds silence...

*LONGHORN...*

The music of John Bradshaw Layfield begins to play, obviously signalling that it's time for his interview with Gregory Helms and Bryan Danielson. From behind the announce desk, 'JBL' stands up from his chair, and just before he removes his headset he says...


John Bradshaw Layfield: It's that time, folks! This is the one you've all been waitin' for! You two idiots oughta pay attention to this, see how a real broadcast journalist does things.

With a thud, 'JBL' drops his headset onto the desk and heads over to Tony Chimel, grabbing a microphone and then heading into the ring. As he stands in the middle of the ring, 'JBL' waits for his music to end, and when it does, we hear some pretty loud heat, something which annoys 'JBL' greatly as he slowly shakes his head...

John Bradshaw Layfield: You people really don’t deserve me. You don’t deserve a ‘Wrestling Gawd’ like myself. You didn’t deserve me when I dominated this sport, and you don’t deserve the benefit of my wisdom when I’m sittin’ behind my desk. But right now, you’re all gonna sit down, shut up, and listen to what I have to say.

From beneath the brim of his cowboy hat, 'JBL' sneers at the crowd as he slowly starts to pace the ring...

John Bradshaw Layfield: In nine days’ time, Friday Night SmackDown presents Judgment Day. A pay per view brought to you from the mind of the most incompetent general manager in the history of wrestling, Teddy Long. And somehow, that idiot managed to get the WWE Board of Directors to sign off on this sham of a show.

Ruefully, 'JBL' shakes his head...

John Bradshaw Layfield: And the reason I say Judgment Day is a sham… is a very simple one. The fact that Gregory Helms has been forced to defend the Cruiserweight Championship not once, not twice, but now for a THIRD TIME against Bryan Danielson is an absolute joke. But you morons in Pittsburgh oughta be used to jokes in sports given how bad your city’s teams play.

Cheap heat...

John Bradshaw Layfield: But not only has Bryan Danielson already had more chances than he’ll ever deserve… a few weeks ago, he then had the nerve to put his hands on me. He put his hands on a Wrestlin’ Gawd! Who the hell does he think he is!?

Loud pop from the crowd, enjoying seeing 'JBL' getting so riled up, but in an attempt to calm down, 'JBL' pauses and adjusts his tie before continuing...

John Bradshaw Layfield: Well I’m fixin’ to find out, and I’m gonna give him a piece of my mind when he steps into this ring. But first, I wanna bring out the man who has carried the cruiserweight division on his back for over a year now.

And now the boos start...

John Bradshaw Layfield: For four hundred and sixty eight days, this man has reigned as Cruiserweight Champion. He’s carried that title with dignity, with honour, he’s taken on all challengers, and he beaten each and every one of ‘em! He is, quite simply… the greatest cruiserweight to walk the face of God’s green earth.

Turning towards the entrance way, 'JBL' looks to give our Cruiserweight Champion a dramatic entrance...

John Bradshaw Layfield: Ladies and gentlemen, get off your fat asses and get on your feet, and join me in welcomin’ your Cruiserweight Champion… the greatest cruiserweight who ever lived… GREGORY… HELMS!!

”LISTEN…”

*IT’S TIME…*

And the build up from 'JBL' works as it's pretty loud heat as Gregory Helms makes his entrance. Wearing jeans and a shirt and with his skullcap on as always, Helms cuts an intimidating look as he saunters towards the ring, but he's soon all smiles as he and 'JBL' lock eyes together. Stepping up the steps and onto the apron, Helms acts honoured as 'JBL' holds open the ropes, the Cruiserweight Champion gleefully stepping through. In the ring, Helms and Layfield share a hearty handshake, the two all backslaps and smiles, but when the music dies down, the jeers of the crowd continue, something which causes Helms great annoyance as he scowls at them...


John Bradshaw Layfield: Just ignore these people, 'champ'. They wouldn't know success if it came up and bit 'em on the ass. Gregory, I wanna thank you for takin' time outta your busy schedule to join me here.

Helms nods and mouths “You're welcome.”...

John Bradshaw Layfield: But now... seein' as I'm contractually obliged to do so... let's bring out the biggest fraud in WWE history. The man who claimed he travelled the world, perfectin' his craft, when he really was nothin' more than a WWE reject who got a second chance he didn't deserve. Just like he's gotten more chances at the Cruiserweight Title than he's ever deserved. Let's bring out... the Internet's favourite... Bryan Danielson.

*RAGE...*

A great pop welcomes Bryan Danielson into the arena, looking as confident and as serious as ever, but given the fact that he's stepping into the ring with both Helms and 'JBL', Danielson is understandably wary. There's no 'JBL' holding open the ropes this time though, as Danielson steps through them himself and heads for the corner, posing for the fans, before he drops down and cautiously stands across from Helms, the two fierce rivals staring each other down...


John Bradshaw Layfield: Alright 'Mr. Youtube', you just stand there, shut up and listen. You'll get your turn in a minute. I'm gonna start with you, Greg. You are the champion after all.

'JBL' sneers at Danielson with that last comment, something which draws a fierce stare from the challenger...

John Bradshaw Layfield: I know you agree with me that at Judgment Day, you're bein' forced into a match that is just beyond belief. A match that shouldn't even be happenin'. A match we've seen before, and each time with the same outcome... you, Greg, walkin' out as Cruiserweight Champion.

Heat from the fans, but Helms simply shrugs and nods in agreement with 'JBL'...

John Bradshaw Layfield: You campaigned tirelessly all across the country to get that title retired, purely because havin' beaten Bryan Danielson at WrestleMania... there was nobody left for you to face. Nobody could touch you, nobody could take that title away from you. If ya' ask me... it's a conspiracy. A conspiracy cooked up by Teddy Long and Bryan Danielson to take that title away from you. Hell, it ain't your fault that every bit o' competition Teddy Long's thrown at ya' ain't been good enough, nobody's good enough! Ya' just can't be beat!

More heat, with 'JBL' pausing, composing himself before he speaks again...

John Bradshaw Layfield: So Greg, tell me and tell these people... just how badly are you gonna beat Danielson at Judgment Day? How much pain are you gonna put him through? And just how sweet is it gonna feel when you beat Danielson for the third time and walk outta San Diego still... Cruiserweight Champion?

Handing the mic over to Helms, 'JBL' takes a step back, marvelling at the Cruiserweight Champion, allowing Helms to now take centre stage...

Gregory Helms: Y'know, I think it's safe to say that in my year long reign as champion, I've always been a fair guy. I've taken on everybody that Teddy Long could find to challenge me. And I've always treated my opponents with dignity, and respect.

Danielson can’t help but laugh and roll his eyes, but ‘JBL’ nods along with the utmost sincerity…

Gregory Helms: But dignity and respect, that's somethin' I never got in return. And I think you hit the nail on the head, John... it IS a conspiracy. Teddy Long couldn't stand the fact that every guy he signed, every challenger he had to offer... I beat 'em. It almost as if, for Teddy... it became personal.

Helms now turns to look at Danielson…

Gregory Helms: He couldn't stand to see me successful, he couldn't stand to see me win. Face it, Bryan, the only reason you even got a WWE contract was 'cause I'm so damn good! You were the best he could find, you were the guy the independent wrestlin' fans raved about. You got brought in for one reason, and one reason only... to take this title away from me. And you just – can't – do it, can ya'?

Stern faced, Danielson stares Helms down, with Helms smirking, testing Danielson, looking for a reaction…

Gregory Helms: And that's why this match at Judgment Day... it's gonna be the last chance at this title that you ever get. 'Cause when I beat you once and for all, you think Teddy's gonna wanna know about you? You think he's gonna care? He brought you in, he gave you the hype, and you had one goal... beat Gregory Helms. And when he finally realises that you can't do it... he ain't gonna want a damn thing to do with you.

Heat from the crowd, while Helms pauses, thinking, laughing briefly to himself…

Gregory Helms: It's kinda funny that SmackDown's next pay per view is called Judgment Day. 'Cause it's gonna be Judgment Day for your career. I'm gonna hurt you, I'm gonna embarrass you, I'm gonna make you suffer. You think those matches you had in Japan were tough? There ain't nothin' like what I'm gonna put you through. All the anger, all the frustration I've got towards Teddy Long for what he's put me through, I'm gonna take it all out on you. And when I'm finished...

And now Helms steps forward, getting right in Bryan’s face as he says…

Gregory Helms: You're career ain't gonna be worth a damn.

Big time heat for that, but Danielson doesn’t flinch, prompting Helms to back away…

Gregory Helms: So you enjoy your last week as a star here on SmackDown. You make sure you take it all in, you savour every moment. 'Cause after Judgment Day... you go right to the back o' the line. I'll still be champion, Teddy Long'll find some other wannabe for me to beat, but you? You'll be nothin'. Just another name in the long list of people that tried and failed to take this title away from me.

A smirk crosses the face of ‘JBL’ as he again nods in agreement, saying “That’s right!” as Helms pauses…

Gregory Helms: You were the great hope, Bryan. You were the last chance. But years from now, when people look back, all you’re gonna be… is the man I cemented my legacy against. They never remember who got second place. And after Judgment Day… nobody’s gonna remember you.

Major heat from the crowd as Helms wraps things up, handing the mic back to ‘JBL’. As he receives the mid, Layfield offers Helms a brief round of applause, before he now turns to address Bryan…

John Bradshaw Layfield: I think that sums it up. But I guess you’ve got somethin’ to say too, Bryan. Some words of wisdom that these idiots can hope cling onto, in the hope they actually come true. A light at the end of the tunnel, a glimmer of-

Having heard enough, Danielson snatchers the mic clean out of Layfield’s hands, much to the delight of the crowd and the shock of ‘JBL’ and Helms…

Bryan Danielson: I actually do have somethin’ I wanna say, ‘JBL’. I’m not much of a talker. I’d rather let my actions in the ring speak for me. But, I gotta admit… you’re right, Greg. I was brought here to SmackDown to give you a challenge. Teddy Long, he searched high and wide, he looked all over the world, and of all the applicants, he chose me. And I’m pretty sure he chose me for a reason.

Helms scoffs and rolls his eyes as Danielson purses his lips and chooses his words carefully…

Bryan Danielson: Y’see, as a young wrestler, I always dreamed of makin’ it here in the WWE. And you two are right, I was under a developmental contract, and I was released from that. But since that day, in every match I’ve had, every time I’ve stepped into a wrestling ring, be it infront of 30 fans in a high school gym, or 20,000 people in Japan, I fought every match with a passion and a fire, tryin’ to prove people wrong, dreamin’ of another chance to prove myself in the WWE.

Pop from the crowd…

Bryan Danielson: And when I faced you at WrestleMania… that was one of the greatest nights of my career. OK, the record books will always say that I lost. And I guess that’s why you’ve been champion for so long. You always find a way to make sure that at the end of the night, you walk out with that title.

All Danielson can do is shrug as the crowd boo, with Helms smugly nodding his head, shouting “That’s what gonna happen at Judgment Day too!”…

Bryan Danielson: But right now, you and me standin’ across the ring from each other… there’s fear in your eyes, Greg. That’s why you hit me with a low blow at No Way Out, and that’s why you had to grab the ropes to pin me at WrestleMania. There’s fear in your eyes… ‘cause deep down inside, behind all the talk, behind all the front… you don’t know if you can beat me fair and square.

Now it’s Danielson’s turn to step forward and get in Helms’ face…

Bryan Danielson: WrestleMania was a great night, but it should’ve ended with me walkin’ outta Detroit as the Cruiserweight Champion. Well… Judgment Day is the biggest opportunity of my life. And I promise… I’m gonna deliver. And you, Greg? You’re gonna tap… or snap.

Another loud pop as Bryan turns and rather forcibly presses the mic against Layfield’s chest, before he turns and heads for the ropes… only for ‘JBL’ to call him back…

John Bradshaw Layfield: Hey! Hey, Danielson! You hold on just a minute there, son. I ain’t finished with you yet. I’ve got a few things I wanna say to you, things that I’ve been wantin’ to get off my chest for a while now.

Bryan puts on the breaks, stopping to hear ‘JBL’ out…

John Bradshaw Layfield: Y’know, you represent everythin’ that is wrong with this industry today. You are the very embodiment of what I hate about the independent wrestlin’ scene. Guys like you walk outta school, ya’ get your first match, ya’ get paid ‘bout $2.50 and a hot dog, and suddenly ya’ think ya’ belong here in the WWE. But the fact of the matter is, guys like you… you’re a dime a dozen. You’re nothin’ special.

Heat, with the words prompting Danielson to take a few steps towards ‘JBL’…

John Bradshaw Layfield: I mean look at ya’! Look how skinny ya’ are! You oughta try eatin’ some meat, son! And those stupid plain tights, and that goofy lookin’ haircut. What’s the matter, your momma still cut if for ya’?

Helms nearly falls over himself in laughter, while the rage starts to build inside Bryan as he angrily grits his teeth and clenches his fists, although ‘JBL’ is having too much of a rant to notice…

John Bradshaw Layfield: Face it, you don’t belong here! You don’t belong in this ring, you don’t deserve to wrestle in our arenas. You’re not a real wrassler, and you certainly ain’t championship material.

And now Layfield steps forward, and with a sneer on his face, he leans in, nearly nose to nose with Bryan, and forcibly says…

John Bradshaw Layfield: So how ‘bout when Gregory Helms here beats your ass for a THIRD time at Judgment Day, why don’t you do us all a favour, pack your bags, walk out the door… and never come back.

Flashing that trademark smug grin of his. ‘JBL’ stares into Danielson’s eyes, looking for a response, preactically daring Bryan to hit him… and Danielson responds as he hammers ‘JBL’ with a MASSIVE FOREARM TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD! The crowd goes wild as the fight is on, with Danielson unloading on ‘JBL’, landing forearm after forearm to the face and jaw, sending a rubber legged ‘JBL’ to the ropes… but here comes Helms from behind, jumping on Bryan, landing a few shots to the back… but Danielson fights back! Danielson now unleashes on Helms, snapping uppercut after uppcerut to the jaw, and now he tackles Helms to the mat! Bryan throws wild lefts and rights, Helms covering up as best as he can, but Danielson is landing shots like a man possessed… until ‘JBL’ blindsides him with a HUGE BOOT TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD!

Danielson is down, and now it’s ‘JBL’ who goes on the attack, pouncing on Bryan, mounting him and grabbing a handful of hair, laying in with brutal rights to the forehead. ‘JBL’ quickly gets back on his feet, removing his jacket and taking off his tie, and this allows Helms to move in, he now leading the assault as he continues to land the right hands to the forehead. With Danielson down and dazed, ‘JBL’ shouts for Helms to get Danielson up, and when he does, Layfield back up, rears back… and moves in… CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL!!

‘JBL’ damn near takes Danielson’s head off, leaving the number one contender down and out, with ‘JBL’ now standing over him, peering down, shouting “You don’t put your hands on me, boy!”. Danielson is a mess, sprawled out on the canvas, but Helms isn’t done yet, grabbing Bryan by the head, helping him back to his knees… before he SLAPS DANIELSON ACROSS THE FACE… then comes off the ropes… SHINNING WIZARD!! “Enough is enough!” cries Cole on commentary, and it seems that with Danielson down, unconscious, not moving an inch, Helms is satisfied. Picking up his Cruserweight Title, Helms has his arm raised high in the air by Layfield, the two standing tall in the ring in the face of monster heat, and it’s on that image of the triumphant champion that we cut elsewhere.

And we see a three way shot of Batista, Edge and Mr. Kennedy, all three walking along seperate backstage areas, heading for the ring...


Michael Cole: What the hell is wrong with those two?! 'JBL' and Gregory Helms, it- it was a setup almost! They invited Bryan Danielson down to the ring for an interview, and now look what's happened! Danielson's out cold!

Tazz: Yeah Helms is feelin' pretty tough right now, but at Judgment Day, it's just gonna be him and Danielson one on one, and I don't Helms is gonna be smillin' when it's all said and done.

Michael Cole: Well folks, there you see the three men involved in our World Heavyweight Championship Match at Judgment Day. It's a Triple Threat Match featuring Batista, Edge and Mr. Kennedy, and those three will sign the contract for that match, when we return to Friday Night SmackDown!

*Commercial*

We return to see that Teddy Long is already standing in the ring, which is set up with a black carpet covering the canvas, while a wide table sits in the middle, with four chairs around it, presumably for our three competitors and the General Manager. Motioning with his hand, Teddy calls for his music to stop, before we begin...


Teddy Long: Alright, alright. It’s that time, playas! Time for the three participants in the World Heavyweight Championship Triple Threat Match at Judgment Day to sign on tha’ dotted line! So first, I wanna bring out the challengers. He is the man who won the 2007 Royal Rumble… and he is the man who unsuccessfully challenged Batista at WrestleMania… ladies and gentlemen… Edge.

”YOU THINK YOU KNOW ME…”

*METALINGUS…*

Loud, seriously loud heat as Edge storms out into the arena, a wild, fierce look in his eyes as he scans the crowd, before he pauses under the SmackDown fist and sets off a burst of pyro. Edge then heads for the ring and slides under the bottom rope, quickly back on his feet to glare at Teddy as the two cross paths…


Teddy Long: Alright, Edge, just take it easy and takes a seat, playa. Up next, the second challenger. The man who was also unsuccessful in challengin’ Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship back at No Way Out. Ladies and gentlemen… Mr. Kennedy.

”KEN – NAH – DAY!”

*TURN UP THE TROUBLE…*

And just like earlier in the broadcast, there’s a loud initial pop that then breaks into heat as Mr. Kennedy makes his arrival. Now dressed in street clothes, Kennedy swaggers into the arena, strutting down to the ring, confidently chewing on gum as he always does. Upon entering the ring, Kennedy immediately stands over Edge from across the table, which prompts Edge to burst to his feet for a staredown, the two still clearly angry at each other given what happened last week, although Teddy moves quickly to diffuse the situation…


Teddy Long: Hey, wait a minute there, playa! You just settle down now Kennedy, ya’ hear?

With both Edge and Kennedy’s eyes firmly locked on each other, the two initially ignore Teddy, until finally with a smirk, Kennedy relents and takes his seat…

Teddy Long: Good. And now finally… he is the two-time and current World Heavyweight Champion… he is ‘The Animal’… he is… BATISTA!

*I WALK ALONE…*

And a tremendous cheer as Batisa steps out from the back, dressed in s harp white suit, sunglasses on, but a stern look on his face as he looks down the aisle at the ring, Pausing, Batista runs through his usual routine of crouching down and setting off his pyro, before he heads for the ring. Stepping through the ropes, ‘The Animal’ stands over both his challengers, holding the title high in the air, before he lays the belt down on the table and takes a seat. With all three men in the ring, Teddy begins…


Teddy Long: Alright, now before we get started, I got an announcement I wanna make. I-

Mr. Kennedy: Aw, nah, nah, nah! C’mon! You gotta be kiddin’ me! What the hell, Teddy!? We don’t need any more announcements!

Picking up the microphone sat on the table infront of him, Kennedy rubs his face in frustration…

Mr. Kennedy: Announcement after announcement, talk after talk, I’m sick of it!

Taken aback, Teddy pauses, shaking his head knowingly, but willing to let Kennedy have his say…

Mr. Kennedy: How ‘bout we don’t make any announcements, huh? How ‘bout we just do what we came here to do, sign this damn contract and get this over with?

Looking at his two opponents, Kennedy doesn’t get any answers, but he presses on regardless…

Mr. Kennedy: ‘The Champ’ over here said last week that there was too much talkin’, and believe or not, I actually agree with ‘im. So c’mon, let’s hurry up and get this done.

Again Kennedy looks towards Edge and Batista, but both remain guarded, prompting Kennedy to take matters into his own hands…

Mr. Kennedy: Infact, y’know what? Here, watch this, I’ll get it started. I’ll sign my name on this thing right now!

Pulling the contract towards him, Kennedy picks up the pen, turns to the back page and signs his name on the contract, slamming the pen down on the table when he’s done. Sitting back in his chair and folding his arms across his chest, Kennedy points at the contract and shouts “Your move!” at his opponent…

Teddy Long: Well, uh… I really wish you woulda heard me out before you signed that, playa. But I guess, what’s done is done.

Teddy rubs his forehead in frustration and sighs, but he realises he can’t change things now so decides to carry on…

Teddy Long: Edge… you’re up next. Over to you, playa.

Edge slides the contract towards himself and picks up the pen… but instead of signing, Edge decides he wants to have his say first…

Edge: Too much talkin’? That’s kinda ironic, comin’ from you, Kennedy. All you’ve done since you’ve got here in the WWE is run your mouth, with nothin’ to show for it.

Kennedy rolls his eyes, clearly not interested, instead he points to the contract and urges Edge to sign…

Edge: Y’know, when I came to SmackDown from Raw, and I decided to challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship, I was determined that it was you I was gonna face at WrestleMania.

Pointing at Kennedy, Edge almost shakes his head in disbelief…

Edge: I didn’t want Batista here, ruining MY WrestleMania moment, and for some reason, I saw somethin’ in you that made me think you’d be the better option.

The camera cuts to a shot of Batista, the champion hiding behind his sunglasses, taking it all in…

Edge: I mean, I did everythin’ I could to help you, I practically handed you the title at No Way Out… and you screwed it up. Just like you screwed up bein’ a referee last week.

Now Edge has Kennedy’s attention, with Kennedy sitting forward and placing his elbows on the table…

Edge: I dunno what the hell I was thinking doin’ all that. You’re nothin’ but a loudmouth, who never backs it up in the ring. The thought of me even steppin’ into the ring with you at WrestleMania, it just makes me sick! And honestly, I can’t believe that at Judgment Day, when I finally become champion, you’re gonna be involved in it!

Laughing to himself, Kennedy now reaches forward and slowly picks up his mic…

Mr. Kennedy: Why don’t you just shut the hell up… and sign?

And that actually draws a pop from the crowd, Edge acting insulted at being spoke to in such a way…

Edge: Oh, oh you want me to sign? Huh? Alright… here…

Scooping up the pen, Edge quickly flips to the back page and aggressively signs his name, before he too slams the pen down on the table…

Edge: There’s your damn signature! I’ll see you two at Judgment Day! Teddy, I’m outta here…

Standing up from his chair, Edge makes for the ropes, only for Teddy to step infront of him and place a hand on his shoulder…

Teddy Long: Edge! You hang on there! You just sit down, I have somethin’ important I need to tell all three of ya’, and you’re gonna hear me out.

For a brief moment, Edge and Teddy stand nose to nose, neither man backing down, but it seems that the stoic nature of the G.M. wins the day as Edge relents and retakes his seat…

Teddy Long: But first, Batista… why don’t you sign next?

But just like his opponents, Batista instead first of all picks up the microphone…

Batista: Y’know somethin’? I just wanna say that Judgment Day, for you two… it’s gonna be hell. ‘Cause for all the crap I’ve had to put up with from the two of you, for all the chairs shots I’ve took to the head from you, Edge, and for all the stuff you did to my friend Ric Flair and his family, Kennedy, Judgment Day… is when it’s all gonna come back and bite you two on the ass!

Loud pop from the crowd…

Batista: I mean, I see that video, week after week, I see that won crier talkin’ about how your actions in the past come back to haunt ya’.

The champion smirks at both his challengers…

Batista: That’s kinda ironic, y’know what I mean? It’s kinda funny that you have done so much to so many, and you’ve both just signed your names on a contract that guarantees me the chance to kick both your asses at the same time!

Another loud pop…

Batista: So you two have got nine days left until I serve as your judge… your jury… and your executioner. And believe me… I will show no mercy.

And with that, Batista flips to the back page and emphatically signs his name, before he calmly picks up the contract and hands it’s over to Teddy. The General Manager turns to the back page, looks at it, then sighs, before he speaks again…

Teddy Long: Alright! I guess that means-

Edge: SHUT UP!

Boos from the crowd for the interruption…

Edge: I’m not finished yet! I don’t care about your stupid announcement. You- you think I’m afraid you, Batista? Huh? You think I’m scared of you?

Slowly the champion nods…

Edge: Y’think I’m scared of the guy who at WrestleMania, I had down and out for a three count? The guy I had beat if I had a referee there?

Batista can’t help but laugh at that…

Edge: Why would I be scared of that?

Removing his sunglasses, Batista stares coldly at Edge and picks up his mic…

Batista: Because the difference between Judgment Day and WrestleMania… is that it’s not just about this title anymore. Now…

The champion leans forward, looking Edge dead in the eye as he slowly says…

Batista: Now I wanna hurt you.

A huge cheer from the crowd, and the comment certainly seems to have struck a chord with Edge as he immediately pushes back his chair and stands up… and Batista does the same! Batista and Edge, stood across a table from each other, a tense standoff, ready to nail at each other at a second’s notice, and Mr. Kennedy is loving it, a big grin on his face, almost as if he’s urging them on…

Teddy Long: Let’s- let’s just hang on there a second. This is startin’ to get a little bit outta hand here, playas. I think you two need to cool off a bit and just relax, this is supposed to only be a contract signin’. Let’s save the hostilities for next-

Mr. Kennedy: Aw, Teddy! Sit down and shut up!

And now Kennedy is on his feet, microphone in his hand, right in Batista’s ear…

Mr. Kennedy: I say if they wanna fight, let ‘em fight! I won’t even get involved, I promise.

Teddy Long: Kennedy! That’s enough!

Teddy stands on the other side of the champion, pleading with him to save the violence for another night…

Mr. Kennedy: You wanna hit ‘im, don’t ya’, Dave? You’re dyin’ to hit ‘im!

Teddy Long: I know what you’re tryin’ do Kennedy…

it’s like the angel and the devil on each shoulder as Kennedy and Teddy speak to ‘The Animal’…

Mr. Kennedy: C’mon, all these people, the whole world watchin’, they all wanna see it! Just hit ‘im!

Teddy Long: Kennedy! Enough!

Edge runs a hand through his hair wildly, with Batista clenching his fists and gritting his teeth, ready to snap, ready to hit Edge square in the face…

Mr. Kennedy: Just pull back and-

BANG!!

Batista hits someone alright… he CRACKS KENNEDY RIGHT ON THE JAW!

And then Edge throws over the table… and he and Batista tackle each other, the brawl is on! All hell has broken loose, the tempers are gone, and now Edge and Batista are rolling on the floor, both men desperately trying to get a good shot in on the other, but unable to do so… and now Kennedy has picked himself up… and he dives in! Jumping on Batista and tackling him off of Edge, Kennedy now tries to lay in on the champion, who battles from his back… only for Edge to now tackle Kennedy! It’s every man for himself, none of the three of them give a damn about how they hit, they just want a piece of each other! It’s wild, it’s mayhem, it’s all gone crazy here, the crowd are on their feet going wild… and the shit hits the fan when…

*WHATEVER…*

What the fuck!? It’s… it’s Chris Benoit! BENOIT IS HERE AFTER ALL! AND HE’S SPRINTING DOWN TO THE RING!!

It’s Edge who hears the music first, his eyes nearly bulging out his skull, in utter disbelief, the man he put out of action a month ago is making a beeline for the ring! Benoit sprints and slides under the bottom rope, and Edge tries to get the jump on him, landing forearms to the back of the neck, but Benoit struggles back up… and grabs Edge by the arm… then takes him down… CRIPPLER CROSSFACE! THE CROSSFACE APPLIED TO EDGE!!

The arena is going wild as Edge taps furiously, but it’s no use as Benoit keeps the hold locked on tight, while across the ring, Batista fires Kennedy off the ropes… INTO A MASSIVE SPINEBUSTER!! Kennedy quickly rolls under the bottom rope and flails about on the outside, while Benoit finally release his grip on Edge, allowing him to do the same. Bursting back to his feet, there’s a tense standoff between Benoit and Batista, the two breathing heavily, the crowd loud as hell, urging them on, but before things get even more out of hand, Teddy Long picks up a microphone…


Teddy Long: Edge! Kennedy! Batista! I really wish you three playas had let me make my announcement before you started puttin’ names on that contract!

Edge is stunned, he can’t believe he, crawling up the aisle, looking back at the ring, shaking his head furiously…

Teddy Long: Y’see, you three haven’t signed up for a Triple Threat Match. Oh no. At Judgment Day, it’s gonna be Batista defending the World Heavyweight Championship against Edge… Mr. Kennedy… and CHRIS BENOIT… in a FATAL FOUR WAY MATCH!!

The crowd love that one, letting out perhaps the biggest cheer of the night…

Teddy Long: And further more… since I feel it’s only fair that Benoit gets in a little pre-Judgment Day workout… he WILL be in action next week on SmackDown!

And with great satisfaction, Teddy points a finger up the aisle and says…

Teddy Long: When he takes on YOU, Edge!

Another tremendous cheer, with Edge sitting on the concrete shouting “No! NO!”, while in the ring, Benoit nods and licks his lips, knowing his chance for revenge comes next week…

Teddy Long: Holla at me, I’ll see ya’ next week playas!

*WHATEVER…*

Benoit and Batista continue to look at each other, both men poised and ready to attack, but uable to do so due to the friendship that exists between them. On the outside, Kennedy rubs his jaw in pain, while Edge sits on the concrete in despair, looking like his whole world has just crashed around him…


Michael Cole: Oh my… can you believe that!? Chris Benoit is back, he’s in the World Heavyweight Title Match at Judgment Day… and he’s got Edge next week on SmackDown!

Tazz: Holy smokes! What the hell is goin’ on around here?! What a match that’s gonna be next week!

John Bradshaw Layfield: How the hell can Teddy Long do that? How is that right? How is that fair?

Michael Cole: I don’t think it matters! What a night it’s gonna be next week, you won’t wanna miss the final stop before Judgment Day, folks! We’ll see ya’ next week, goodnight!

In the ring, Batista and Benoit continue their standoff, neither man budging, but both glad to see each other, while on the outside, Kennedy looks back in at the ring, shaking his head in annoyance, while on the aisle, Edge looks like he’s seen a ghost, head in his hands in despair as we fade to black.

*End Show*




Current Card for WWE JUDGMENT DAY:
Date: May 20th, 2007

Location: iPayOne Center; San Diego, California

World Heavyweight Championship Fatal Four Way Match:
World Heavyweight Champion Batista vs. Chris Benoit vs. Edge vs. Mr. Kennedy

United States Championship Match:
United States Champion Matt Hardy vs. The Miz

WWE Tag Team Championships Match:
WWE Tag Team Champions The Hooligans vs. The New Breed

Cruiserweight Championship Match:
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms vs. Bryan Danielson

Last Man Standing Match:
Chavo Guerrero vs. Rey Mysterio

Grudge Match:
Finlay vs. Kane

Six Man Tag Team Match:
The Extremists vs. The Coachman Coalition




Current Card for WWE SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT - KING OF THE RING SPECIAL:
Date: June 2nd, 2007

Location: TD Banknorth Garden; Boston, Massachusetts


The 2007 King of the Ring Tournament:
COMPETITORS TO BE DETERMINED

 
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