(Special thanks to ChainGangRed for the graphics)
September 5, 2012 – Columbus; Ohio
The show kicks off with a recap from last week:
Triple H walks on stage showing his face for the first time since Summerslam. Triple H takes a moment at the top of the ramp to stare out into the crowd. The COO where's a suit and his hair in a ponytail. He walks down the ramp, enters the ring, and grabs a microphone. The Game's music dies down, but the crowd’s raucousness does not. While some in the crowd chant "Triple H" others chant "CM Punk", and yes some chant "We Want Bryan!" Triple H smiles and opens his mouth to speak.
The crowd somehow gets even louder for the "Anti-Hero" CM Punk. Punk comes out and doesn't taunt, he just simply walks down to the ring and grabs a mic.
Punk:
Now Hunter while I have to admit I'm surprised to see you actually out here, seeing as apparently you're a busy man and all. I just wanted to come out here before you spoke so I could expose any corporate BS that you might try to sell to these people in Tulsa and those people at home.
The crowd pops and now nearly unanimously chants for CM Punk.
Punk:
Nonetheless, however, I am surprisingly glad you're here. Y'see I'm glad you're here 'cause we want some answers! … for starters, why'd you screw me out of the WWE Championship?
The crowd cheers as Hunter keeps his condescending smirk.
HHH:
I believe Johnny already told you why, it's what was best for business. My job is to do what's best for business.
Punk:
Just admit it Hunter, the reason you screwed me out the title wasn't because it was "best for business" for WWE, it's best for yourself. Let's face it Hunter you like the feel of John Cena's lips in your ass!
The crowd pops as Trips continues to glare.
HHH:
Maybe I don't want a champion who wreaks havoc and has to have his language censored. A champion this company can be proud to have represent it.
The look Punk's face says "spare me"
Punk:
Oh you mean like you were? I mean you really fit the corporate image, with your "oh so original" D-Generation X. I mean parents loved it when their kids yelled "Suck it!" at the top of their lungs and pointing at their crotches. What a role model you were!
The crowd cheers as Punk points out the BS.
Punk:
Ok, so you've already lied about one question. Question number two! (Punk holds up two fingers) Why do I not yet have my rematch for the WWE Championship?
The crowd gives another largely mixed reaction for the WWE Champion, John Cena. Cena walks down the ramp and to the ring. Cena grabs a mic.
Punk:
Hey everybody, the Champ is here!
The crowd gives a large mix of boos and cheers.
Punk:
Well I guess Triple H's ass has gone too long without a kissing so John I hope you brought your Chap stick!
The crowd goes "Oh" as Cena just (pretends to) laugh.
Cena:
Actually I'm here for the same reason you're here for some answers!
Cena:
Well Hunter give us some answers. Why hasn't CM Punk been given a rematch?
HHH just smirks before responding.
HHH:
You all wanna know why he hasn't gotten a title match?
The crowd answers "Yes!"
HHH:
Well, there are a number of reasons. Number one, I don't think I should reward a man who invades RAW and attacks other contenders because he can't get a title shot.
HHH:
Secondly, and more importantly, one of my jobs is to sell Pay-Per-Views, and I don't know about you people, but I would never buy an event where I already know the winner. The fact is Punk you can not beat John Cena.
The crowd disagrees with this as Punk cockily smirks
Punk:
So you think I can't beat Cena?
Punk:
Well if you knew Cena could beat me, why did you screw me out of the WWE Championship at Summerslam?
Cena looks genuinely intrigued as Triple H just stares at Punk. Shot is shown of Triple H’s fast count at Summerslam.
Punk:
After all, if you KNEW I couldn't beat Cena, then why would you even need to screw me?
Triple H continues to stare at Punk as Cena looks bothered.
HHH:
Listen I don't have to answer to any of you!
The crowd really boos as Triple H goes to leave the ring.
The crowd gives yet ANOTHER loudly mixed reaction (Interestingly he garners more cheers than Cena) for The Miz. Miz comes down to the ring with a mic in hand. Miz enters the ring and stares down Triple H.
Miz:
Oh please cut the act. Cena you can make mean faces all you want but I know you and Triple H are in cahoots!
Cena just smirks and shakes his head.
Miz:
See Hunter, I know you weren't lying when you said screwing Punk was "best for business". Because, you see John Cena for what he is..... a walking advertisement. You know what half of the WWE Universe has known for years. You know that Cena isn't the best wrestler, he isn't the best on this mic, but you know that he is the most marketable.
Another mix of pop and heat as Cena looks legitimately pissed off, Punk is smirking in the corner and Triple H's face is a beat red.
Miz:
And why not? He's big enough, he's got half of the women in the audience ready to marry him, and he’s gullible enough that you could put him in any stupid outfit you can think of-
Cena:
Miz, that's enough!
Miz slowly turns to Cena with a shit-eating grin on his face.
Cena:
You'd better shut your mouth before I shut if for you!
The women and children cheer.
Miz:
Oh I'll gladly kick your ass like I did at Wrestlemania, Cena! Just give me a title shot, and I'm all yours.
Cena:
Wherever, whenever, Miz!
Miz and Cena begin to stare down
Punk:
Ladies, ladies, please. Now, Miz I admire you for coming out here these past few weeks and showing more balls than I thought you ever had. But if anybody is getting a title shot, it's yours truly.
The crowd pops in support of CM Punk
Punk:
But don't worry after I put my knee through Cena's head, I'll gladly give you a shot.
HHH:
No! You all seem to be forgetting that this is my show! This is my company! No one's getting anything unless I say so! And I say neither of you are getting a title shot!
BIG time heat for the COO
HHH (Pointing at Punk):
….you're gonna go one-on-one with... him.
The Miz vs. CM Punk
Miz places Punk on the top rope and hooks him up for a SUPERPLEX.... BUT PUNK HOLDS ON! Punk punches Miz in the ribs a few times. Punk then headbutts Miz, knocking him off the top rope! Punk then gains his footing on the top rope, points his arms in the air, LEAPS OFF THE TOP.... AND HITS THE SAVAGE ELBOW!! Cover!
The crowd pops big as Punk gingerly gets to his feet and has his arm held high by the official.
JR:
What a match and what an effort by both men!
We see replays of the finish of the match and the moves leading up to the finish.
We come back and see Punk celebrating in the corner. Punk drops down and SEES MIZ WAITING FOR HIM! Miz however doesn't attack, instead he and Punk stare down. MIZ EXTENDS HIS HAND! Punk looks puzzled and cautious as Miz says, "We've gotta stick together!” PUNK SHAKES MIZ'S HAND! The crowd applauds and then Miz then exits the ring. Punk then grabs a mic
Punk (breathing heavy):
So now that THAT'S out of the way, why don't we get down Triple H down here to give me my rematch!
The crowd cheers big as Punk waits.
And Triple H doesn't come out. Punk shakes his head
Punk:
That's fine, that's fine, because you just made the second biggest mistake of your career as COO. Your first was screwing me out of the WWE Title, now I'm going to come on this show every week and tear it apart until I get my rematch!
The crowd cheers the rebellious CM Punk
Punk:
I don't care if I have to come through the audience, hell I'll parachute from the sky if I have to! 'Cause I will not rest until I get my rematch and neither will you, Hunter!
The crowd goes absolutely bananas as Stephanie McMahon walks out on stage!! Steph has a mic in hand as CM Punk stares at the Billion Dollar Princess, as surprised as anybody.
Stephanie:
Ladies and gentlemen, at Night of Champions; John Cena will defend the WWE Championship against....
The crowd chants "CM Punk!" as Punk himself looks on confused and intrigued. Steph herself has a bit of a smirk on her face.
The roof nearly comes off BOKCenter as Stephanie's music plays.
Punk's confused look has changed into a smirk. While Steph's announcement has somehow raised even more questions, it has given us a major answer.
We don’t go to the theme song yet; instead we are shown a clip of CM Punk arriving at the arena.
??? (Off screen):
Hey Punk!
Punk turns to who called him and see The Miz.
Miz:
Hey listen, I know we haven’t ever seen eye-to-eye, but like I said to you last week: you and I have to stick together.
Punk gets a bit of that cocky smirk on his face
Punk:
What makes you think I need you?
Miz:
Because you and I know that there is some BS going on here. Because you and I know John Cena and Triple H are both in cahoots. And because you and I are the only guys with the balls to do anything about it.
Punk thinks about this for a moment
Miz:
Plus, the “powers that be” know that together we’re a threat to whatever it is they are trying to accomplish, that’s why Triple H put us in the match together last week. He knows that if we stick together, we’re more dangerous than we are apart.
Punk continues to stare off, obviously intrigued by Miz’s proposal
Miz:
So whatdya’ say? Do I have your back and you have mine?
Miz extends his hand as Punk stares down at it, before shaking it.
Miz goes to walk away but Punk keeps a grip on his hand
Punk:
Just know that you’re now in an increasing smaller group of guys who have my trust, but if you so betray said trust… you won’t live to regret.
Punk then releases and continues his venture toward the back as Miz looks on, Punk’s warning clearly resonating.
“Burn it to the Ground” finally plays to welcome us to the show.
We see shots of the crowd in Columbus with signs including “Best in the World” and “I paid to see Daniel Bryan”.
JR:
A happy labor day to all of you at home, welcome to Monday Night RAW!
King:
What a show we have tonight, JR!
JR:
You’re not wrong King, tonight the United States Champion Dolph Ziggler will team up with R-Truth to take on the Number One Contender John Morrison and Zack Ryder!
Cole:
Also, per the controversial announcement last week by Stephanie McMahon, John Cena will defend the WWE Championship against CM Punk at Night of Champions! Tonight, just six days before the event John Cena and the so-called “Voice of the Voiceless” will have an in-ring confrontation and if that isn’t big enough, WWE Board of Directors have guaranteed that both Cena and Punk will have free range to say whatever they want to each other. Folks, get your DVRs ready because this is an event you won’t want to miss!
The crowd cheers loud for the WWE Tag Team Champions, Air Boom. Kofi and Evan do their signature thunderclap at the top of the ramp as their pyro goes off.
JR:
Here come the highly energetic duo of Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne, also know as Air Boom!
Lawler:
Also known as the WWE Tag Team Champions, JR!
JR:
Indeed they are King, but tonight Kofi Kingston will go one-on-one with one of his two opponents at Night of Champions, Michael McGuillicutty!
Cole:
Not only that, Kofi Kingston was McGuillicutty’s pro back when he was on NXT! This should be a very interesting match!
Evan stands at ringside as Kofi stands on the turnbuckle and holds his title high for the entire crowd to see before doing one more thunderclap.
The crowd boos as the vile (and more recently jilted) duo of Michael McGuillicutty and David Otunga enters the arena. Notably both men seem rather distant from one another.
JR:
Ever since Michael McGuillicutty and David Otunga lost the WWE Tag Team titles to Air Boom, nothing has gone right for the young duo.
Cole:
And it has really started to create a rift between the Number One Contenders including this blunder from last week.
McIntyre stands.... AND GETS NAILED WITH TROUBLE IN PARADISE!!! Kofi hooks the leg!
After the match Bourne enters the ring to celebrate with Kofi
The crowd boos as were not even given a moment to show replays of the previous match. David Otunga walks out from behind the curtain.
Lawler:
Oh great what is this loud mouth doing here?
Cole:
More importantly, where is Michael McGuillicutty?
JR:
Well we know the two haven't been seeing eye-to-eye lately. But what is Otunga doing out here?
Otunga slowly walks down the ramp and it is clear something is more than meets the eye. Suddenly, MCGUILLICUTTY SLIDES IN THE RING BEHIND KOFI AND EVAN. McGuillicutty slides into the ring and tries to clothesline Kofi from behind- but Kofi sees him coming on the titantron and ducks! Evan hits a big knee to the jaw of McGuillicutty! McGuillicutty then turns around and gets nailed by Trouble in Paradise!! The Tag Team Champions' music hits as Otunga stands at the end of the ramp, his planned foiled, looking very frustrated not just with the champions, but with his partner as well.
When we come back we see McGuillicutty in the ring staring up at the titantron, clearly pissed. Otunga, meanwhile, has taken his place at ringside and shakes his head is disgust.
JR:
This is a huge match for both McGuillicutty and Otunga to gain some much needed momentum heading into Night of Champions.
Michael McGuillicutty (w/ David Otunga) vs. WWE Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston (w/ Evan Bourne)
The match is one of power (McGuillicutty) versus speed (Kofi). At one point Kingston’s high octane offense becomes too much for the young star and he must slide out of the ring to take a breather. Michael walks toward his partner at ringside, who begins to scold him for exiting the ring. McGuillicutty begins to argue back as KOFI DIVES ONTO BOTH OF THEM WITH A SUICIDE DIVE! The crowd pops as once more, the bickering between the former champs has cost them. Kofi gets to his feet and sends Michael back into the ring. Kofi then goes to follow but Otunga grabs his leg! Kofi kicks Otunga off and goes to continue his journey into the ring BUT NEARLY LOSES HIS HEAD AS MCGUILLICUTTY BLASTS HIM WITH A YAKUZA KICK! The crowd boos as Bourne pleads his case to the ref of Otunga’s interference, but there’s no point as THE REF SAW OTUNGA GRAB KOFI’S LEG! The ref then throws Otunga from ringside! The crowd cheers and Bourne applauds as now both Otunga and McGuillicutty argue with the ref, but it’s in vein as the ref stands by his edict.
Otunga reluctantly leaves and McGuillicutty is fuming. The second-generation star decides to take his frustration out on Kofi and begins to stomp on one-half of the Tag Team Champions. McGuillicutty then picks Kingston up and drops him across his knee with a pendulum backbreaker! McGuillicutty covers!
McGuillicutty stays on the offensive, quickly pulling Kofi up to his feet and hitting a big time vertical suplex! Michael floats into the cover!
McGuillicutty gets to his feet and looks down at Kingston before DROPPING A HARD KNEE RIGHT ON HIS FACE! Kofi grabs hid mouth in pain before covering!
No! Kingston still pops his shoulder up!
McGuillicutty immediately grabs Kingston’s head and applies a side headlock. Kofi is in trouble as McGuillicutty wrenches down on the hold. Evan Bourne sees his partner is hurting and begins to clap in support. The crowd catches on and begins to clap in unison as well. Kofi uses this as motivation as he gets to his feet, albeit still in the hold. Kofi then elbows Michael in the gut once… twice…. Three times and breaks the hold. Kofi then hits the ropes for a clothesline… but McGuillicutty ducks and Kofi continues to run. Kofi runs to the opposite ropes and SRPRINGBOARDS OFF OF THEM WITH A FLYING CROSSBODY ONTO MCGUILLICUTTY!
Both men are down as the crowd applauds in appreciation of the high-flying maneuver! The ref begins to count but only gets to about four, before McGuillicutty stands in the corner. Just after that Kofi rises as well, and sees his opponent in the corner. Kofi runs… AND HITS THE KORONCO- NO! MCGUILLICUTTY ELEVATES KINGSTON IN THE AIR AND KOFI LANDS JAW-FIRST ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE! Kofi grabs his jaw and MCGUILICUTTY COMES FROM BEHIND WITH AN ENZU LARIET! Kofi crashes to the mat and McGuillicutty covers!
No! Kofi still has some fight left!
McGuillicutty shakes his head in frustration as the crowd cheers. Kofi slowly rises to his feet and McGuillicutty lifts him for a BACK SUPLEX- BUT KOFI LANDS ON HIS FEET! McGuillicutty then turns and throws a wild lariat Kofi’s way- but the veteran superstar ducks and grabs Michael in a gutwrench! Kofi is looking for SOS- but McGuillicutty grabs Kofi by the hair and trunks AND QUICKLY COUNTERS BY THROWING KOFI SHOULDER-FIRST INTO THE RING POST! The crowd gasps and Bourne cringes at the both impressive and brutal counter. McGuillicutty takes a moment before turning Kofi around and sending into the opposite corner by way of Irish whip. The former NXT rookie follows up with a big clothesline- but the former mentor counters by turning half his body onto the ring apron and hitting a PENDULUM KICK- but McGuillicutty blocks the kick and HITS A ROPE HUNG NECKBREAKER ON KOFI!! McGuillicutty is red as he covers Kofi!
3-NO! Kofi gets his shoulder up!
McGuillicutty can’t believe it and neither can the crowd. Michael then stands and stomps right on Kofi’s chest. McGuillicutty then heads up to the second rope and HITS A DIVING FOREARM RIGHT ONTO THE BRIDGE OF KINGSTON’S NOSE! McGuillicutty quickly hooks the leg!
Kofi’s resiliency, Otunga’s removal from ringside, and even the past few weeks of frustration have now boiled over. McGuillicutty is smashing the mat with his fists in anger and screaming at the referee. When he realizes that whining will get him nowhere, McGuillicutty pulls Kingston up by the arm. Still holding Kofi’s arm, McGuillicutty pulls Kingston in for A CLOTHESLINE- BUT KINGSTON COUNTERS AND FLOATS OVER AND HITS A DDT! McGuillicutty gets spiked right on his head! The crowd and Evan pop as both men lie motionless on the canvas. The ref begins his count as we see a replay of Kofi’s incredible counter. Both men get to their feet at roughly the same time. McGuillicutty runs blindly toward Kofi… and gets chopped down. McGuillicutty gets back to his feet and gets chopped down again. Kofi then hits the ropes as Michael stands AND HITS THE SUPERMAN PUNCH!! McGuillicutty goes down and the crowd cheers as Kofi runs around the ring. Kofi runs off the ropes, stops, dances, AND HITS THE BOOM DROP- BUT MICHAEL ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY!
Kofi hits the mat hard as McGuillicutty stands up. Michael then squats down and measures Kofi! The crowd boos as McGuillicutty gets antsy as Kofi slowly rises. Michael runs in AND TWISTS KOFI FOR THE MCGUILLICUTTER- NO! KOFI TURNS WITH IT AND HITS A FOREARM RIGHT INTO THE FACE! McGuillicutty grabs his nose and turns around into TROUBLE IN PARADISE!!! Kofi covers!
After the match, Kofi stands and has his hand raised in the air by the referee. Evan claps and celebrates at ringside. We see replays of the match leading to the finish. When we come back, Kofi and Evan thunderclap at the top of the ramp to the cheers of the crowd.
JR:
A great effort by both men! Michael McGuillicutty has nothing to be ashamed of!
King:
Somebody needs to tell him that!
Indeed, we see McGuillicutty recovering and pounding the mat hard with his fists. His face is red and he is nearly in tears as the crowd boos. He then sits down and rubs his hands through his hair and over his face.
-----------------------------------------
A black screen is all we see we hear a crowd counting with the referee.
The crowd goes absolutely wild.
Announcer:
The winner and new World's Champion: Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat!!
We then fade into the infamous scene at the Chi-Town Rumble where Ricky Steamboat has just defeated his hated rival Ric Flair for the NWA World Championship. Steamboat is handed the World Championship and holds it high for all of the Chicago native to see. Meanwhile, Ricky's wife brings his infant son to the ring as Ricky holds both the World Title and his child as the scene pauses on this image.
???(VO):
Even today it still gives me goose bumps.
The image now fades to a man standing outside an empty ring. The young man looks awfully familiar to the WWE Hall of Famer we just saw.
???:
That moment was the best of his life. He would always tell me that it was a close a perfect moment as he's ever had. Everything that he had worked for and cared about was within arms reach.
The young man pauses before continuing
???:
My whole life has been building up to my own perfect moment. Now I stand here closer than I've ever been to that moment. I can't even imagine what it will be like when I have my perfect moment but, I do know one thing. When it happens I will bring my father into the ring, just as he did me.
???:
I am Richie Steamboat, and my moment is near.
We stand backstage, just outside the gorilla position. Todd Grisham stands with a microphone, staring directly into a camera.
Grisham:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time: Michael McGuillicutty.
The crowd boos as the camera pans out to reveal his guest. McGuillicutty is still huffing and puffing due to both exhaustion and anger from his last match.
Grisham:
Well Michael, a-a big loss for you tonight and-
Before Grisham can finish his question, David Otunga walks up. Otunga looks both disappointed and condescending.
Otunga:
Well, well, well… another disappointing week, huh? Can’t say I’m surprised.
McGuillicutty looks perturbed at Otunga’s statement.
McGuillicutty:
What’s that supposed to mean?!
Otunga:
It means that without me, you’re nothing!
McGuillicutty:
Oh yeah, without you I came closer to beating Kofi than I ever did before!
Otunga and McGuillicutty are nose-to-nose now and Grisham has a mic in between the partners.
McGuillicutty:
Yeah, I’ve single-handedly carried to tag team gold!
Otunga:
Oh please, if I weren’t here no one would even know your name! I’m engaged to Jennifer Hudson!
McGuillicutty:
Oh here we go with this again! Listen, I didn’t have to marry into a famous family, I was born into one!
Grisham (meekly):
Um… I’m just gonna let you guys handle this.
Grisham leaves McGuillicutty and Otunga bickering, though they don’t seem to notice.
-----------------------------------------
We go to the announce booth with Cole, JR, and Lawler.
Lawler:
Well it sure doesn’t look like David Otunga and Michael McGuillicutty are getting along any better!
JR:
Well they’d better start real soon if they want any chance of dethroning Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne at Night of Champions!
We cut to the ring where standing in the center of the ring is Abraham Washington. Washington does not have a microphone in his hand but rather a headset microphone.
Washington:
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, dogs and cats, my name is Abraham Washington.
The crowd boos as Washington’s cocky demeanor remains unfazed.
Washington:
I am here to introduce y’all too the now highest-paid superstar on the WWE roster, Jack Swagger!
The crowd boos even harder now and begin to chant “Swagger sucks!”
Washington:
I understand your booing and I understand your chanting. However, you’re chanting at the wrong man. See, the Jack Swagger you knew was a talented young man with no direction. The Jack Swagger that you’re about to see is the new face of the WWE!
The crowd really boos now at the seemingly absurd comment by A.W.
Washington:
Columbus, you are about to see one of the biggest moments in sports-entertainment history! Introducing: the new, the improved, the multi-talented, the “All-American American”, the “Franchise Playa’ ”…….
Washington pauses before….
Washington:
JACK SWAGAAAA’!!
The crowd boos as Rage Against the Machine’s song plays throughout the arena. The arena goes dark and smoke appears at the top of the ramp. Through the smoke we can see a shadow of a figure. The figure then looks up and let’s out a loud roar setting off big, red, fiery, pyro at the top of the ramp. The lights come on to reveal: Jack Swagger. Swagger has a red, white, and blue singlet covered by a new t-shirt with a new logo. Swagger cockily walks down the ramp before stopping and doing push ups, setting off more pyro at the top of the ramp. Swagger than enters the ring as Abraham applauds.
Washington:
In a world filled with wanna-bes there is just one true superstar! Get a look at the new face of the WWE! He is the Derek Jeter, the LeBron James, and the Tom Brady of the WWE all in one! He is a hybrid with the wrestling skill that Bob Backlund would be envious of! Charisma that would electrify The Rock! Submission skills that would leave Bret Hart in a state of fear!
The crowd boos as Swagger simply nods his head to every accolade bestowed upon him by his new agent.
Washington:
So tonight, for all of you here in Columbus, Mr. Swagger is laying down an open challenge to anybody who is stupid enough to step in the ring with the “Franchise Player!”
The crowd continues to boo as Swagger cockily looks toward the top of the ramp and waits. No one answers.
Washington:
That’s what I thought. I can’t say I blame any of y’all. After all-
The crowd cheers loudly for Alex Riley who walks out with a smile on his face. Washington and Swagger look intrigued, but unimpressed. Riley enters the ring and stares down both men. Riley grabs a mic.
Washington:
So you wanna be the first victim of the “new” Jack Swagger?
Riley smirks before speaking
Riley:
Well, I have to give you credit with what you’ve done with the “new” Jack Swagger.
Washington and Swagger look at each other rather smug
Riley:
Somehow… you’ve made him an even bigger doofus than before!
The crowd cheers and laughs as Swagger and Washington look at each other flustered. Swagger gets hostile and gets face-to-face with Riley. Washington gets in between them.
Washington:
Hold up, Jack! Hold up! Ge-get a ref out here! Let’s get it goin’!
John Cone runs down to the ring to get us started.
Jack Swagger (w/ Abraham Washington) vs. Alex Riley
Washington has a headset mic on at ringside. Swagger has spent most of the match out-wrestling (to Abraham’s live commentary) Riley. Swagger has Riley locked up in the corner and the ref counts to force the break. Swagger holds his arms up to break AND GETS SLAPPED ACROSS THE FACE BY RILEY! Washington yells foul toward the ref as Swagger looks beyond pissed. Swagger grabs Riley by the legs, picks him up, AND HITS A DOUBLE-LEG TAKEDOWN SLAM! Jack then locks his arms around his opponent’s ribs and squeezes hard. Abraham then screams toward the audience while pointing at Swagger, “That’s how you do it! I love it! I love it!” Riley rolls over and grabs the ropes. Swagger holds on until the count of four before breaking his hold. Swagger then stands and stares down at Riley before SLAPPING HIM IN THE FACE! Swagger smirks, Riley grabs his mouth, and Washington yells, “Oh! Oh! That’s what I’m talking about!” Riley now looks infuriated and MAULS SWAGGER WITH A DOUBLE-LEG TAKEDOWN AND BEGINS TO POUND AWAY AT THE “FRANCHISE PLAYER’S” SKULL!
Washington begs the ref to pull Riley off and the ref finally does. Swagger stumbles to his feet and Riley grabs him in a front headlock. Riley then brings his forearm up and SLAMS IT DOWN, HITTING A MODIFIED FACEBUSTER! Riley then stands up and yells to the cheers from the crowd. Swagger stumbles up in the corner, Riley runs at him and HITS A FLYING CORNER CLOTHESLINE! Swagger stumbles out of the corner toward the ropes where Riley whips him off the ropes and CATCHES HIM OFF THE REBOUND WITH A SPINEUSTER!! Riley covers!
NO! Swagger pops his shoulder up!
Washington celebrates at ringside, “That ain’t enough! That ain’t enough!” Riley sighs before pulling Swagger up to his feet. Alex picks Swagger up for a MICHINOKU DRIVER- NO! SWAGGER SLIPS OUT THE BACK AND HITS A RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX!! Riley flies across the ring to the “oooooh’s” of the crowd. Washington pumps his fist forward and yells, “Dat’s what I’m talkin’ ‘bout! Right there!” Swagger stumbles to his feet and heads toward his opponent. Swagger pulls him up, grabs him AN HITS A BELLY-TO-BELLY SUPLEX! Swagger hooks the leg!
Swagger sits up and exhaustedly wipes some sweat from his brow. Washington tries to encourage his client. “That’s okay! That’s okay!” Swagger stands and drags Riley into the corner. Swagger then goes to the opposite corner and pounds his chest while yelling enthusiastically. Swagger then runs, jumps over Riley, springboard off the corner AND HITS THE SWAGGER BOMB! Swagger hooks the leg!
NO! Riley continues to fight!
Swagger smacks the mat in frustration and glares at the referee. Washington again tries to calm Jack and keep him focused. “Bring it down, Jack. Bring it down.” Swagger stands and raises his arms, signaling for the end. Riley slowly gets to his feet and turns. Swagger grabs Riley IN A GUT- WRENCH! The crowd boos as Swagger prepares for his finishing move. Swagger LIFTS RILEY- NO! Riley switches around to the back and lifts Swagger up IN A BACK SUPLEX POSITION… AND SLAMS HIM DOWN WITH SIDE SLAM!! The crowd pops as Washington looks on, concerned. The crowd starts a “Let’s go Riley!” chant as both men are down. Riley stands first and throws his arms down, calling for his finisher. Swagger stands…. AND RILEY PICKS SWAGGER UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS! RILEY LOOKING FOR YOU’RE DISMISSED- BUT SWAGGER ELBOWS RILEY RIGHT IN THE SIDE OF THE HEAD! Swagger drops down and GRABS RILEY IN A GUT-WRENCH! SWAGGER LIFTS RILEY UP AND….. HITS THE GUTWRENCH POWERBOMB! Washington applauds as Swagger stands and ops not to cover. Instead, he GRABS RILEY BY THE FOOT AND LOCKS IN THE ANKLE LOCK! Swagger twist and turns with a smile on his face as Riley screams in pain!
Swagger stands and celebrates to the heat of the crowd. Washington enters the ring and celebrates with Swagger.
Cole:
Wow! I’ve never seen Jack Swagger this impressive! Even when he was World Heavyweight Champion!
JR:
And remember Jack Swagger lost to Alex Riley a few weeks ago, and now he wins decisively!
Swagger and Washington head to the outside. Swagger then grabs his earlier disposed t-shirt and is handed a pen by Abraham Washington. Swagger sign the shirt with a smile on his face and holds it high for the crowd to see. The crowd cheers as Swagger then pulls back to throw the signed shirt into the crowd. Swagger then tosses the shirt to his manager Washington to the heat of the crowd.
Cole:
Ladies and Gentlemen, I’ve been told by Abraham Washington to visit WWE.com to see Jack Swagger’s first post-game press conference.
Lawler:
Post-game press conference? Oh brother!
-----------------------------------------
Grisham is standing in the interview area this time.
Grisham:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome the WWE Tag Team Champions, Air Boom!
The crowd cheers as Evan Bourne and (a still sweaty) Kofi Kingston walk on-screen
Grisham:
Guys a big win for you tonight, continuing your incredible run of momentum. Why does it seem like you guys seem to be getting along much better than your opponents this Sunday have been?
Kofi:
Well, we don’t make excuses. We don’t blame the other for our shortcomings. When we mess up we’ll tell each other, “my bad” and get back to work. We also learn more from our mistakes and improve upon them.
Grisham then goes to Bourne for his response
Bourne:
Basically what he said. *laughs* I also feel that since we’ve been doing this much longer, we’re much more willing to accept our mistakes and improve upon those.
Grisham pulls the mic back to himself.
??? (off-screen):
Are you kidding me?!
The camera pans toward the right to reveal MIZ BEING TAKEN AWAY BY SECURITY!! The crowds' boos are heard all the way out in the arena and get louder as we see Laurenitis walking alongside his security. Miz is not going easily and has to be held by several members of security. Laurenitis sees the camera man.
We hear some more off-screen mumbling and Miz’s yelling all the way down the hallway.
Laurenitis:
Turn it off! Hey!
Laurenitis walks toward the camera with his hand covering the lens.
Laurenitis:
Go to break! Go to break! Go to-
We comeback at ringside with the commentators quiet for a longer than usual before speaking (notably not referencing Miz’s removal from the arena)
The crowd boos as Beth Phoenix and Natalya enter the arena. As Natalya stands at the top of the ramp with her hands on her hips, Beth raises the Women’s Championship high in the air.
JR:
Well the Women of Wrestling have been on an absolute tear through the Women’s division since forming just over a month ago.
Cole:
You can say that again JR! Two weeks ago, Beth and Natalya took out Kelly Kelly’s friend and partner Eve! Last week, Kelly Kelly vowed to win the title back from Beth for her friend Eve.
King:
It won’t be easy, because not only does Kelly take on one of the most dominant divas ever, but she’s doing it in Beth’s hometown!
Cole:
She’s not a diva, King! She is a woman!
Beth and Natalya look menacing inside the ring.
The crowd gives a (not nearly as strong) negative reaction for Alicia Fox.
Cole:
Fox has been having problems as of late with both AJ Lee and Kaitlyn. In fact this past week on Smackdown, AJ upset Alicia Fox.
As Cole talks, we see a replay from Smackdown:
AJ gets to her feet with a smile on her face as she waits for Fox to stand. Tamina smacks the mat trying to get Fox’s attention but to no avail. Fox groggily stands and AJ grabs her in a cutter position BEFORE FLOATING OVER AND HITTING HER MODIFIED DRAGON DDT! AJ covers!
In the ring, Fox glares up at the titantron. Her anger is so focused; she doesn’t seem to notice Beth and Natalya glaring at her.
**HOLLA**
The crowd squeals in appreciation for the lovely Kelly Kelly. Kelly’s grim expression remains as she comes down to the ring.
JR:
As you can see, Kelly Kelly is as serious as ever.
Cole:
And she should be. In many ways, Kelly Kelly is the flag bearer for the Divas division and the WOW threaten to destroy that division.
Kelly stops at the ramp and glares into the ring with a tinge of nervousness to her.
**LET’S LIGHT IT UP**
The crowd pops for the increasingly popular, upstart tag team of AJ and Kaitlyn. The young divas bump fists before heading down the ramp.
King:
These two are not only beautiful but exciting as well!
AJ and Kaitlyn come down the ramp and stop to the side of Kelly. Alicia Fox walks to the side of the ring and begins to jaw-jack with the Chickbusters. Suddenly, BETH GRABS FOX FROM BEHIND IN A DOUBLE CHICKENWING! Beth than lifts her up into the air and walks into the center of the ring. Phoenix DROPS FOX WITH THE GLAM SLAM!! Everyone looks shocked including the three face divas on the outside of the ring. Beth and Natalya look down at their former partner for the match tonight. Natalya then turns her over and LOCKS IN THE SHARPSHOOTER! The scene looks disturbingly familiar to just a few weeks earlier with Eve. Beth screams for a mic and Justin Roberts reluctantly gives it to her. Natalya LEANS ALL THE AY BACK AND SYNCHES THE HOLD TO IT’S VERY PEAK!!
Beth:
You gonna cry Alicia? Cry!
Beth holds the mic up to Alicia Fox, who let’s out a bloodcurdling shriek. Both AJ and Kaitlyn go to help Fox, but Kelly stops them. It’s clear that Kelly is not being cruel, but smart. The divas can’t afford to lose even more bodies, especially two young upstarts like AJ and Kaitlyn. Even all three of them probably can’t stop the Women of Wrestling at this point. It’s clear both Chickbusters are disturbed by Alicia’s screams.
Beth:
Oh you don’t like that feeling, do you? That feeling that of being held down against your will, the painful feeling of helplessness, and the embarrassment of knowing that your family is watching you suffer. Say hi to them Alicia.
Beth holds the mic up to Alicia’s mouth again, who releases another ear-piercing screech. Shots of the audience show people who are shocked at what they’re seeing.
Beth:
Now you have a little taste of how we’ve felt for the past few years.
At this point Kelly and the Chickbusters are slowly heading back up the ramp.
Beth:
And Kelly, take note princess.
Kelly doesn’t turn but she stops and listens
Beth:
What’s happening here now is NOTHING compared to what I’m going to do to you this Sunday!
Kelly grimaces before heading back up the ramp.
Natalya finally releases her hold and leaves Fox lying. Both Beth and Natalya leave and medics hit the ring to help Alicia. The crowd is in near silence as the officials help Alicia. Beneath all the drama that just happened is a very underlying message: it doesn’t matter who you are; if you’re a diva, you have a target on your back.
JR:
Folks, we apologize if what you just saw may’ve disturbed you. Beth and Natalya’s actions as of late have been absolutely deplorable.
Cole:
This Sunday, Kelly Kelly will try to somehow to stop this path of destruction that is Beth Phoenix.
King:
After what we’ve seen the past few weeks, I am seriously concerned for Kelly Kelly’s safety.
Cole:
McGuillicutty and Otunga attempt to gain revenge for the past couple of weeks when they challenge Air Boom!
JR:
McGuillicutty and Otunga better get on the same page real quick if they hope to even have a chance to win back the Tag Team titles!
Cole:
Cody Rhodes has been on a great run as of late, but Justin Gabriel has the WWE Universe thinking upset!
King:
Cody Rhodes has been running his mouth even more over the past few weeks, and now Gabriel looks to shut it!
Cole:
Dolph Ziggler is the longest reigning champion in the WWE today, can Ziggler finally earn the respect he feels he deserves? Or will Morrison win his first United States Championship?
JR:
I expect this match-up to perhaps be the sleeper hit of the night!
Cole:
Christian wants to be taken seriously as a World Champion, he has his opportunity this Sunday!
King:
But it won’t be easy with three of the most dangerous men in WWE in as his challengers in one match! This match may come down to the luck of the draw!
Cole:
And finally two of the most controversial men in WWE face-off in a huge rematch! John Cena defends the WWE Championship against CM Punk!
JR:
Both men have so much to prove to not just one another, but to the WWE Universe. Can CM Punk truly hang with the very best the WWE has to offer? Can John Cena defeat CM Punk without any controversial assistance?
Back at ringside, the crowd begins to applaud as with help of the officials Alicia Fox is on her feet. The medics help Fox walk gingerly to the back.
-----------------------------------------
Backstage, the camera is following a hurried Todd Grisham.
Grisham (while hurrying):
We’re…. trying to…. Get a word here.
Grisham finally catches up with the person he was looking for, Kelly Kelly.
Grisham:
Kelly, what is your response to Beth and Natalya’s attack?
Kelly is nearly in tears and is clearly affected by the attack on Fox.
Kelly:
My response? Beth wants to scare me, but she’s not going to. Y’see Beth, I’m not just fighting for myself, I’m fighting for my family. The divas division is my family. We accepted you and Natalya as apart of this family and now you hurt us. Now I’m going to hurt you. Because I am still the top woman here in the WWE and at Night of Champions, in front of your friends and family, I’m going to take everything you hold dear. I’m going to take revenge for Eve and Alicia, I’m going to take back my title, and I’m going to take your dignity like you tried to take ours!
Kelly walks away as the crowd cheers.
-----------------------------------------
A graphic is shown of Cena and Punk staring down one another.
JR:
Still to come tonight, John Cena and CM Punk have an in-ring confrontation and it’ will be 100% uncensored!
A shot of every championship is shown as the recognizable voices of many WWE Superstars are heard.
Cena: I will never forget it....
Orton: I will never forget......
Christian: I will never forget.....
Triple H: I will never forget.......
Sheamus: I will neva' forget.......
Now shots of each man winning their first World title is shown accompanied by their voice
Orton: It was in Toronto; Canada
Sheamus: San Antonio; Texas
Christian: Tampa; Florida
Mysterio: Chicago; Illinois
Swagger: Las Vegas; Nevada
Cena: Los Angeles; California
Orton: I became the youngest World Champion in history.
Sheamus: I shocked tha' world.
Mysterio: I proved dreams do come true.
Miz: I proved I wasn't just a reality star.
Triple H: I became The Game!
Cena: I ended a historic title reign.
Now a close up of every superstar is shown
Triple: It was the night I became....
Miz: The night I became....
Mysterio: The night I became....
Sheamus: Tha' night I became....
-----------------------------------------
We come back from break backstage where a camera watches from afar as McGuillicutty and Otunga continue to argue… in the exact same place they were arguing nearly an hour ago.
-----------------------------------------
The crowd cheers loudly for the fiery Italian, Santino Marella. Marella struts down to the ring with a goofy smile on his face.
JR:
Well here’s a familiar face!
Cole:
Ugh… don’t remind me!
King:
We haven’t seen Santino in over a month, I wonder what he’s doing out here tonight.
Santino stands in the center of the ring with a microphone in hand.
Santino:
Hello Christopher Columbus!
The crowd laughs and cheers at Santino’s butchering of their name.
Santino:
You may have all been wondering where Santino has been.
Santino:
Santino has been on a bit of a vacation. But now, the Cobra is back and ready to striiike!
Santino:
So Santino was thinking, how he could come back. So Santino remembers that he first came to the WWE by way of the open challenge! You see, Zack Jagger isn’t the only one who can make open challenges! So tonight, Santino is standing up his challenge! So who wants to step down to the challenge!
Santino’s silly expression remains as he waits for tonight’s second open challenge. Suddenly, the lights go dim.
Slow and creepy music begins to play followed by very intense hard rock music. The second Rage Against the Machine (OOC: I swear it’s a total coincidence) song of the night blares out the loud speaker. Dean Ambrose walks out with a drunken-like strut. His arms flail at his sides as he walks out with his head held high. The crowd doesn’t know quite how to react to the charismatic young superstar and neither does Santino Marella. At the top of the ramp, Dean suddenly grabs his head and squats before turning around in a full 360 degree and continuing his strut in a much more animated fashion. Dean then looks rather closely into the camera, giving everyone a look into the eyes of the clearly deranged superstar. Dean then continues his walk down to the ring with his chin more in his chest, looking up from time-to-time to glance out into the crowd. It appears that Dean’s thoughts are in a very different place than Columbus. Ambrose has barely paid Santino a passing glance as he slowly heads up the steps and onto the ring apron. Ambrose then grabs the middle-rope and stares out into the crowd. While not expressionless, it’s very hard to read Ambrose’s face. One cannot tell if he’s angry, happy, upset or even indifferent to the current situation. Ambrose enters the ring and once more grabs his head before extending both arms out to his sides, in an almost crucifix-like position. Ambrose then finally turns and acknowledges his opponent. To say Santino is uncomfortable is an understatement.
JR:
Well this young man, Dean Ambrose is quite a disturbed individual.
Cole:
You’re not kidding JR; this guy calls himself “the next step in the evolutionary cycle of this business”. I’m not quite sure what that even means!
Dean Ambrose vs. Santino Marella
Santino nervously extends his hand toward Ambrose. Ambrose stares at the hand for what seems like an eternity. Santino is about to pull it back when Ambrose smiles and accepts the shake! Santino seems relieved as they shake. Santino goes to pull away… but Ambrose doesn’t let go. Dean’s smile turns into angry frown AS HE WALLOPS SANTINO WITH A HURE RIGHT HAND! The crowd boos as Dean glares down at Santino, who slowly starting to stand. Dean then CRACKS HIM WITH ANOTHER FIST TO THE SKULL! Dean then begins to pound away at Santino so bad that the ref actually has to pull him off physically! Even as Dean is being dragged off, he manages to stomp on Santino a few more times.
The crowd is drowning Ambrose is heat as Santino is down on the canvas. Santino blindly crawls toward the ropes, trying to find some form of solace. Santino falls with his upper body on the second rope. Dean pulls his arms up above the ropes AND APPLIES A ROPE-ASSITED SURFBOARD!! Santino screams as the ref desperately tries to get Ambrose to release the illegal hold. The ref counts and Dean finally releases the vicious maneuver. Santino collapses to the ground and Dean immediately pulls him up to his feet. Ambrose hooks him up, and holds him up high for a vertical suplex…. BEFORE DROPPING HIM WITH A DDT!! THE ONE HITTER! The crowd groans at the vicious maneuver. Ambrose then holds his fingers in a gun-like position and aims it at Santino. Ambrose then pulls the trigger. Dean pulls Santino up to his feet, puts him on his shoulders and DROPS HIM WITH THE MIDNIGHT SPECIAL (Celtic Cross)!!! Cover!
After the match, Ambrose stands with a crazed smile on his face. Santino is absolutely out of it in the center of the ring.
JR:
An absolutely dominating performance by Dean Ambrose! Let me tell ya’ if that was any indication, Dean Ambrose should be a force to be reckoned with for years to come!
-----------------------------------------
In another area back stage, Zack Ryder walks through the hallways toward the ring. He has his camera with him and is recording as he walks, filming numerous WWE superstars and divas.
Cole:
Zack Ryder and John Morrison take on Dolph Ziggler and R-Truth, next!
Backstage, Otunga is now walking by himself looking very frustrated. Obviously, his argument with McGuillicutty is leaving him with a very sour taste in his mouth.
??? (off-screen):
David!
Otunga turns and sees John Laurenitis calling him over.
Laurenitis:
Just the man I wanted to see! Please, step into my office. I have a proposition for you.
Otunga looks confused, but intrigued and obliges. Laurenitis closes his door behind him.
-----------------------------------------
“I’M HERE TO SHOW THE WORLD! I’M HERE TO SHOW THE WORLD!”
**HERE TO SHOW THE WORLD**
The crowd boos as Dolph Ziggler walks out with Vickie Guerrero following not far behind. Of course, the Unites States Championship remains on his waist. Ziggler cockily walks down to the ring pointing to his Championship all the while.
JR:
It hasn’t been a good week for the United States Champion, last week he lost a very hard fought match to the WWE Champion John Cena and then this happened:
In the ring, Ziggler is clearly out of breath but still manages to scream, “I’m the best!” and pound the mat in frustration. Vickie tries to settle her client down, as Ziggler continues to shriek “I. AM. THE. BEST!” Ziggler stands and turns and GETS NAILED WITH A ROUGH RYDER FROM ZACK RYDER!!! Ryder came through the audience to get payback on Ziggler! Vickie screams as Ryder pumps his fist as the crowd chants, “Woo, Woo, Woo, you know it!”
We come back and we see a very bitter Ziggler looking up at the titantron.
Cole:
I can’t believe that Ryder would attack Ziggler like that!
King:
Oh give me a break, Cole! Ziggler cost Zack Ryder an opportunity to get a United States Championship match before that!
“THE TRUTH HAS SET ME FREE!”
The crowd boos again as R-Truth walks to the ring all the while, mumbling to himself.
JR:
And ironically, here is the man who beat Zack Ryder to take him out of title contention.
King:
Unfortunately for R-Truth, he was unable to defeat John Morrison in the finals of tournament, last week.
"Should I finish it?!" Truth then nods in understanding and yells out to the crowd, "K Y'ALL, I'M FINISHING HIM!" The Tucson crowd boos R-Truth's claim as Morrison uses the ropes to pull himself to his feet. TRUTH JUMPS FOR TRUE CONVICTION- BUT MORRISON HOOKS HIS ARMS IN THE TOP ROPE AND TRUTH HITS THE MAT HARD! Truth sits up AND GETS A RUNNING KNEE FROM MORRISON TO THE FACE!!!
Cover!
Winner and Number One Contender for the WWE United States Championship:
John Morrison
Instead of looking up at the Tron, Truth is in the ring and looking down at the mat with his hands clutching his head (as if in pain). Ziggler and Vickie look confused at Truth as he mumbles to himself incoherently.
“OH RADIO, TELL ME EVERYTHING YOU KNOW!”
The crowd gives a rather large pop for “Long Island Iced Z” Zack Ryder. Ryder stands at the top of the ramp and pumps his fist to the “Woo! Woo! Woo!” of the crowd.
King:
Here’s a young man who has really captured the attention of the WWE Universe!
Cole:
Oh please, just goes to show what the WWE Universe knows!
JR:
Just goes to show what you know, Michael! Zack Ryder is a very talented young superstar that defeated Dolph Ziggler a couple of weeks ago!
Cole:
So?! Upsets happen! Just because the St. Louis Rams beat the Green Bay Packers in the regular season, does that mean the Rams are the Super Bowl Champions?!
Ryder stops at the end of the ramp and cockily stares in the ring at the US Champ.
**AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE**
The crowd cheers again for Ryder’s partner, John Morrison. Morrison does his signature taunt in slow-mo with the fans blowing in his hair.
JR:
And this is a very interesting situation we have here. It’s no secret that Zack Ryder wants a shot at the United States Championship and his partner tonight is a man who has a shot at Night of Champions. How will Ryder and Morrison co-exist?
Morrison stops next to Ryder and they both stare at Ziggler who doesn’t back down in his trash talk. Notably, Truth is still in the corner mumbling to himself.
John Morrison/Zack Ryder vs. R-Truth/United States Champion Dolph Ziggler (w/ Vickie Guerrero)
Good main event tag team match. Ziggler is in the ring controlling the pace of John Morrison. Ziggler has Morrison down on the canvas as he runs his hands through his hair before jumping up high… AND COMING DOWN WITH A BIG ELBOW DROP! Ziggler then lies on the mat for a moment before kipping up beautifully to the applause from Vickie at ringside and the apathy of the crowd. Morrison clutches his chest in pain as Ziggler brings him up to his feet. Ziggler Irish whips Morrison off the ropes AND CATCHES HIM OFF THE REBOUND WITH A SCOOP POWERSLAM! Cover!
Ziggler stands up and waits as Morrison begins to sit up. Ziggler runs in and hits a big neck snap! Morrison falls back and Ziggler rolls out on to the ring apron. Dolph then heads up to the top rope and once more taunts to the heat of the crowd. ZIGGLER LEAPS OFF WITH A DIVING SPLASH….. AND EATS THE CANVAS! MORRISON MOVED! The crowd gets excited as does Ryder who jumps up and down on the apron extending his arm out as far he can. The crowd begins to clap in unison as Morrison and Ziggler both slowly get to their feet. Morrison kicks Ziggler in the gut- No! Ziggler catches the foot! Ziggler shakes his head cockily and… MORRISON HIT A HEADSTAND KICK TO COUNTER! Ziggler flops down to the mat as Morrison crawls toward his corner. Morrison leaps….. AND TAGS IN RYDER!!
The crowd gets louder as Ryder comes rushing in. Ziggler stands and gets taken down with a running forearm from Zack! Dolph stands again and gets knocked down with another forearm! Ziggler staggers to his feet and Ryder whips him into the ropes and CATCHES DOLPH ON THE REBOUND WITH A FLAPJACK!! Ryder gets up very energized and holds up his hands in an “L” and an “I”. Ziggler turns AND RYDER JUMPS FOR THE ROUGH RYDER—BUT ZIGGLER SLIPS UNDER AND QUICKLY CRAWLS ACROSS THE RING TO TAG IN R-TRUTH! Truth seemed to be distracted by something as he’s brought back to reality by the tag. Before Truth can even enter the ring, Zack gives him a hand with a hip toss into the ring! Truth stands and gets hit with a spinning neckbreaker from Ryder! The audience is in a frenzy as Ryder is on fire! Truth stumbles to his feet and throws a wild right hand Ryder’s way- which Ryder easily ducks and hits a Russian legsweep! In the center of the ring, Truth begins to stand again and Ryder hits the ropes- BUT GETS A REVERSE HOTSHOT BY DOLPH! Ryder’s neck snaps back and he stumbles forward into A CORKSCREW CALF KICK FROM TRUTH!
The crowd shits on the heel team as Truth remains on the mat and breathes heavily. Truth then stands and throws Ryder into the corner. R-Truth then knees Zack in the stomach knocking him to the ground in the corner. Truth then places his knee into Zack’s face and pushes hard. Referee Mike Chioda begins to count and gets to four before forcing Truth off of Ryder. Truth snaps at the official shouting, “I know da’ rules!” Truth then pulls Ryder up, lifts him up for a vertical suplex, AND DROPS HIM WITH A STUNNER! TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES! Cover!
Truth shakes his head and looks deranged toward Ryder. Truth pulls Zack up to his feet and kicks him in the gut doubling him over. Truth then hits the ropes and NAILS A CORKSCREW AXE KICK! Truth smiles and drags Ryder toward the corner with Dolph Ziggler in it. Truth stomps on Zack a few times before tagging to Dolph. Dolph picks up right where his partner left off by stomping away at Zack. Ryder crawls to the ropes and Ziggler gives him a hand by bringing him up to his feet. Ziggler then lifts him up and his shoulders and DROPS HIM WITH A GUTBUSTER! Ziggler covers!
NO!! Ryder pops his shoulder up!
Ziggler does a couple crunches before standing as the crowd boos. As Ryder tries to stand, Ziggler slaps him hard across the face! Ziggler begins to yell at Ryder, “You are not in my league! You aren’t even close!” Morrison has his arm extended for the tag and Ziggler taunts him too. Ziggler sends Ryder into the corner and pumps his fist mockingly. The crowd gives Ziggler heat as he RUNS AND JUMPS FOR A CORNER SPLASH- BUT RYDER MOVES! Ziggler’s head bounces off of the top turnbuckle and Ryder collapses to the ground. The crowd again tries to encourage Ryder to get the tag via clapping. Morrison reaches out as far as he can as Ryder begins to come to. Ryder stands and… GETS TAKEN OUT BY A FAME ASSER FROM DOLPH!
Ziggler then immediately drags Ryder into his corner to the exasperation of the crowd and Morrison. Ziggler tags to Truth, who goes up to the top rope. Truth leaps and…. HITS A LEG DROP TO THE BACK OF RYDER’S HEAD! Truth covers!
No! Ryder keeps fighting!
Truth looks perturbed but nonetheless stays on the attack. R-Truth stomps on Ryder a few times and lifts up to his feet. Truth hooks him up in another vertical suplex AND DROPS HIM WITH A FACEBUSTER! Truth hooks the leg!
Truth is really mad now as he huffs and puffs. R-Truth stands and looks around for some answers. He nods toward an empty corner in understanding before picking Ryder up onto his shoulders and HITTING A FRONT POWERSLAM! Truth covers again!
Truth begins to scream to his imaginary friend in the corner, “I DON’T KNOW WHAT TA’ DO!” Ziggler then yells to Truth, “Who the Hell are you talkin’ to?!” Truth looks at Dolph like he’s crazy and points to the corner, “Him!” Ziggler and Vickie look at each other puzzled before berating Truth. Truth yells back, “ONE ATTA’ TIME!” before turning to his transparent accomplice and telling him, “OK you first!” Meanwhile, RYDER IS CRAWLING TOWARD THE CORNER AND NO ONE SEES HIM! Ryder reaches out…. AND GETS PULLED BACK BY TRUTH! The crowd groans as Truth pulls him all the way into his corner, where Ziggler blind tags.
Dolph yells at Truth, “Let me show you how it’s done!” Ryder begins to stand and Ziggler grabs from behind WITH A SLEEPER! Ziggler gets up on Zack’s back and…. ZACK BEGINS TO WALK TOWARD MORRISON! Zack reaches the center of the ring when Ziggler drops down to stop keep Ryder dormant. Ryder reaches out… BUT BEGINS TO FADE! Ziggler enthusiastically yells out in joy (as does Vickie) as the ref brings Ryder’s arm up…..
The ref brings it up again…
Morrison and the crowd look desperate while Ziggler and Vickie look exuberant. The ref lifts the arm a third time…
Ryder switches around AND HITS A HUGE BACK SUPLEX! The crowd cheers as Ryder and Ziggler remain on the mat. Ryder begins to crawl toward his corner and Ryder does the same. Both partners extend out far and…..
RYDER TAGS IN MORRISON!
AND ZIGGLER TAGS IN R-TRUTH!
Both men rush in when suddenly, Truth stops dead in his tracks. Truth looks horrified at his rival and the man that beat him last week on Raw. Morrison is puzzled as Truth is petrified. Truth then turns around and tags back to Ziggler. Ziggler and Vickie look pissed off and confused as Truth walks out of the ring, all the while mumbling incoherently to himself. Vickie walks with Truth as heads up the ramp and chews his head off. Truth doesn’t even seem to notice as he walks up the ramp. Ziggler yells from inside the ring, questioning Truth’s actions. Meanwhile, Morrison springboards off the ropes AND HITS THE FLYING CHUCK! Ziggler flies back into a sitting position in the corner. Morrison sees this and turns to his partner, who is begging for a tag on the ring apron. Morrison tags in Ryder, who immediately pumps his fist to the “Woo! Woo! Woo!” of the crowd. Ryder runs in AND HITS THE BROSKI BOOT!! The crowd is going crazy as Ryder sticks up the “L” and the “I” while measuring Ziggler. RYDER JUMPS… AND HITS THE ROUGH RYDER! Cover!
Winners: John Morrison and Zack Ryder
Cole:
You gotta be kiddin’ me!
JR:
For the second time, Zack Ryder has pinned the United States Champion!
Cole:
C’mon JR, you know that’s only because R-Truth left.
JR:
You’ve said it yourself, Michael! A win is a win!
King:
But I wonder “what’s up” with R-Truth? (OOC: Forgive me )
Morrison and Ryder celebrate for a moment before having a brief stare down. Both realize that given both of the futures, their paths may cross sooner rather than later. And next time, they may not be on the same side of the ring.
-----------------------------------------
CM Punk is walking to the ring for the in-ring confrontation with John Cena. Suddenly, John Laurenitis approaches him. Punk eyes him suspiciously.
Laurenitis:
I don’t want any trouble Punk. I just want to let you know that you can say anything you want out there but per orders from the COO there will NO physical contact. Should you break this rule, I will have no choice but to have my security escort you out of the building.
Punk:
Listen, I don’t plan on laying a hand on John Cena.
Punk then walks toward Laurenitis who looks nervous.
Punk:
Unless…. He lays his hands on me first.
Narrator:
This Tuesday, it’s Super Smackdown LIVE! With two HUGE main events, both of which are Summerslam rematches!
The package takes a darker turn.
Mark Henry is showed up close with a mean look on his face.
Henry:
… if you try and stop me, I WILL break you.
Sheamus:
See Mark, I know what you ar’: you’re a bully.
Narrator:
Sheamus will take on the monstrous Mark Henry. Can the “Celtic Warrior” stop the “World’s Strongest Man”?
The shot now changes to Randy Orton and Christian in the ring, staring down.
Orton:
I don’t see an “old” Christian or a “new” Christian… all I see… is the scared, crying, little B___!
Narrator:
Randy Orton and Christian will go one-on-one!
Columbus gives the biggest reaction of the night for the “Voice of the “Voiceless”, CM Punk. Punk slaps his wrist a few times before yelling out his signature catchphrase, “IT”S CLOBBERIN’ TIME!”
JR:
Without a doubt, one of the most polarizing, charismatic, and controversial figures in the WWE today.
King:
You forgot “annoying” JR!
JR:
What makes you say that King?
King:
For the past few weeks, all we’ve heard about is Punk complaining about how he hasn’t gotten a WWE title match.
JR:
Well, I sort of feel his gripes are justified! ‘
King:
I don’t even know why it matters, because at Night of Champions John Cena’s going to shut him up for good!
Punk stands on the corner and taunts to the delight of the fans.
Cole:
What sort of pipe bombs will CM Punk drop tonight?
Punk grabs a mic and stands in the center of the ring waiting for both the crowd and his music to die down.
Punk:
First of all, I’d like to say something that I’d never thought I would ever say…
The crowd pauses in anticipation for the ultra-charismatic Punk
Punk:
I would like to thank Stephanie McMahon for giving a WWE title match at Night of Champions.
The crowd cheers at the mention of the big main event
Punk:
Although I still think you are both undeserving of your job and inept at it, I suppose a blind squirrel finds a nut every now and then.
Some members of the crowd pop and others laugh
Punk:
And that brings me to John Cena-
As soon as that name leaves Punk’s mouth the theme music of the WWE Champion hits to, of course, a mixed reaction. John Cena walks out with his red baseball cap and t-shirt, with his WWE Championship in his hands. Cena looks into the camera and says, “THE WWE Champion!” (Obviously a reference to THE Ohio State Buckeyes) before sprinting down to the ring and holding his Championship high for all of Columbus to see. CM Punk looks unimpressed as Cena turns and locks eyes with him.
Cena:
So here we go! Uncensored! Unscripted! And Uncut! Just like Raw started! So Punk why don’t you start!
Cena looks to Punk with that big cheesy grin on his face as Punk looks cocky and goes to speak, but Cena interrupts.
Cena:
Or should I call you Phil?
Punk looks bugged by that last statement
Punk:
Don’t do that. Don’t try to do what I do, Cena because it’s not going to work. When I drop these “pipe bombs” I do it to tell these people the truth. When you do it, it’s a desperate attempt to get these people on your side.
That seems to change Cena’s expression
Punk:
And trust me, this is far from the first time you’ve tried something like this. Like for example, earlier this year a guy who I’ve known for a very long time, started to make a name for himself, because he realized the WWE sure as hell wasn’t going to make it for him. That guy’s name is Zack Ryder.
The crowd cheers for the mention for of Ryder.
Punk:
And of course when the WWE noticed him, they didn’t put him on Raw or Smackdown. No, they had their poster boy where his headbands and wear his sunglasses. And the only reason that they did that was because they heard you people chanting for Zack Ryder when they wanted you to chant (points to Cena) for John Cena.
A mixed reaction for this as Cena’s expression obviously disagrees with Punk’s statement. Punk goes to continue but Cena is quick to speak.
Cena:
Punk, you’re wrong.
Cena:
I was helping Zack Ryder. I’m a broski too. I wanted Ryder to be on Raw.
Punk’s face says, “bullshit”
Punk:
You’re a fan of Zack Ryder?
Punk:
Really? Then where have you been the other four years that he’s been ignored by the WWE higher-ups?
Cena doesn’t have a response
Punk:
Where were you when he was wasting away in ECW? Where were you when he was in fear for his job?
Cena still doesn’t respond
Punk:
Here’s another example. A guy you may all know: Daniel Bryan.
The crowd explodes in a pop that surprises just about everyone. Punk can’t help but to smile as a very large “We want Bryan!” chant breaks out.
Punk:
Trust me, I do too. Hell, anybody with half a brain would want him. But of course the WWE is run by morons, who think they know what you people want.
The crowd boos the WWE as Punk continues
Punk:
After all, they think you want this guy over Daniel Bryan!
The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Cena smiles, albeit a bit forcibly
Punk:
So much so that last year they fired Daniel Bryan!
Punk:
They fired him for the most asinine reason, he did his job a bit too well.
Punk then pauses before continuing
Punk:
Well that and he told everyone what they already knew. He spat in your face and told you that you will never be better than him.
The crowd cheers again as Cena’s face is unmoved
Punk:
And trust me when I tell you guys, “The Champ” sure wasn’t happy about that. Boy, he sure wasn’t. But, you people made your opinions known. You wanted Daniel Bryan back.
The crowd gets riled up again and starts another “We want Bryan” chant
Punk:
And wouldn’t you know the first guy who was going up to bat for Bryan, was the guy he said he was better than, John Cena.
Cena smirks as Punk continues
Punk:
What I find so funny about the whole situation John, is that you didn’t say anything about the whole first week. But then when you saw the signs and the fans chanting, you became his number one fan. “Oh yeah I love Daniel Bryan!”
Cena’s face remains deadpanned
Punk:
And of course, just two months ago when I dropped my first pipe bomb, I know you weren’t happy about that.
Cena’s face is slowly getting more enraged
Punk:
But what do ya’ know, John Cena came out the next week in my defense, oh I should feel so blessed.
Punk smirks as he realizes he’s getting under Cena’s skin
Punk:
And the whole reason John Cena and the WWE did all that was so you would cheer (points to Cena) him.
Punk:
Because what we were able to do, these three guys that the WWE has no faith in, was what the WWE wasn’t able to do no matter how hard they tried. We made the WWE socially relevant.
Cena’s face is now very serious
Punk:
John, do ever wonder why they boo?
Cena seems a bit inquired now
Punk:
Do you or the WWE suits ever wonder why they boo you, when in 2004 they were ready for you to become the top guy?
Cena:
Yeah, they boo me because I’m not like you. They boo me because of my “five moves of doom”. They boo me because I don’t work on my “heel persona”-
Punk:
No John! They boo you because they know bulls- when they see it.
The crowd pops big for this and the profanity is obviously censored out for TV (despite the fact that the segment was advertised as “uncensored”). Cena seems genuinely taken aback by the statement.
Punk:
You’re right; they do boo you because you’re not like me. Because what they see is what they get with CM Punk. What they see with John Cena is whatever Vince McMahon, Kevin Dunn, and now Triple H want them to see!
Punk:
All of you can’t seem to figure out why you were cheered before you won the title and then booed afterward. The reason is you went from being a man of the people to being a man of the machine.
Another mixed reaction for this
Punk:
And no matter how much pandering you do, these fans know that-
Cena:
I don’t pander to anyone.
Punk stops and then begins to laugh. Cena looks confused.
Punk:
You don’t pander to anyone?!
Cena shakes his head “no”
Punk:
John, do you ever look at yourself in the mirror?
John again seems confused
Punk:
Look at what you’re wearing?! You don’t pander to anyone? You’re a walking billboard!
Cena looks down at his bright red t-shirt, wristbands, baseball cap, etc.
Punk:
I mean what the hell does half of that crap even mean?! Hustle? Do you like, want kids to run faster?
The crowd laughs as Punk shrugs his shoulders
Punk:
Loyalty? Well you are a pretty loyal ass-kisser all right.
Punk:
Respect? Why would anybody respect a sell-out?
Punk smirks as Cena is clearly gotten to now
Cena:
You know why I’m the top guy? Because I work hard for this, harder than anybody else in this company!
The mixed reaction is much more negative. It’s clear that CM Punk is winning over some members of the crowd from Cena’s side.
Punk:
That’s another thing that I’m sick and tired of hearing. I’m sorry Cena, but you aren’t the hardest working person in this company.
The crowd pops for Punk’s rebuttal
Punk:
It’s not me either. There are guys that work just as hard as you and I, if not harder. The only difference between you and them is that they don’t get to reap any of the benefits.
Punk pauses again before continuing
Punk:
They aren’t getting any calls to be on Jimmy Fallon or to be in commercials. Instead, they get very nervous whenever the phone rings, because they know that could be the call that ends their dream.
Cena removes his hat and wipes sweat off his brow.
Cena:
Punk, you’re wrong.
Punk:
Oh, am I wrong? Please, tell me how.
Cena:
I get treated just like everybody else.
The crowd really boos Cena now as Punk simply face-palms himself while laughing.
Punk:
You expect anybody to believe that?
Punk (to the audience):
You all see why guys like Miz and me think this guy is fake?
Punk:
Cena you can “argue” out here with Vince and Hunter out here all you want, we all know that you’re the “golden boy”.
Cena looks down at the ground
Punk:
After all, how many times have you been fired, only to be “miraculously” saved? Hell, you were supposed to be fired after I beat you in Chicago, but what do ya’ know? Triple H saved your job; hate to say I told you so, but…
Punk just smiles as the crowd is now universally chanting for the “Voice of the Voiceless”
Punk:
I sure didn’t see Hunter coming up to bat for Chris Masters, or Colt Cabana, or Luke Gallows, or Shelton Benjamin, or MVP, or Funaki, or…
Punk smiles again as the crowd has now started a “Colt Cabana” chant
Punk:
Well, you get my drift. And don’t forget you’re commentators! Oh yeah Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole being the puppets they are always support you Cena! I mean they sure don’t like me; after all I’m the bad guy, right?
Cena looks like he’s going to be sick as the crowd chants “CM Punk! CM Punk!” Cena finally tries to respond.
Cena:
Listen Punk, you’re not the only one who wants change.
Cena:
I want change too.
The crowd is really on Cena’s case now
Punk:
Are you kidding me? You really are unbelievable. You really believe this crap don’t you?
Cena just coldly stares at Punk
Punk:
You don’t want change! The only thing you want changed is these fans booing you and cheering me!
The crowd cheers even louder
Punk:
But that won’t happen, because even though I’m not the nicest guy, I tell the truth. You insult these peoples’ intelligence every time you open you’re mouth and spout off another line of corporate BS!
Cena is getting angry now
Punk:
They won’t cheer you because they see you for what you are: an ass-kissing, hypocritical, lying, selfish, son-of a-bitch—
CENA DECKS PUNK WITH A RIGHT HAND!! The crowd boos as Cena is shaking in anger. PUNK COMES BACK WITH A RIGHT HAND OF HIS OWN! BOTH MEN ARE BEATING THE HELL OUT OF EACH OTHER!! The crowd is going nuts when suddenly; LAURENITIS AND HIS SECURITY HIT THE RING! The team of about 24 separates the two brawling superstars. The crowds boos get even louder as the 12 men containing Punk PUT HIM IN HANDCUFFS! Not only that, LAURENITIS IS ORDERING ONLY TO PUT PUNK IN CUFFS! Punk realizes this and actually smiles. Cena stands up and looks at Laurenitis, confused. As Punk gets taken up the ramp he yells, “See what I mean, everybody?! I told ya’ so!” while Cena gets in Laurenitis’ face questioning him as to why Punk is the only one being taken away. As Raw goes off the air we hear Laurenitis’ answer: “It’s what best for business…”
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