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WWE: A Strong Response

542K views 2K replies 175 participants last post by  Nige™ 
#1 · (Edited)
WWE: A STRONG RESPONSE
The Backstory​

Following No Mercy last night and after a difficult year with ratings and pay-per-view buys taking a downward turn, the steroids and Chris Benoit scandal, the WWE have been forced to take the company in a different direction, starting immediately.

Stephanie McMahon has been joined by Shane McMahon and Nigel Smith to head up the creative team that will see Smith take charge of writing both Raw and Smackdown. Vince McMahon has decided that wrestling and competition must become the main focus of the shows ahead of over the top storylines that have left viewers frustrated and fed up with WWE programming. It must be noted that the McMahon’s may still make appearances on television as Vince in particular sees himself as a top ratings puller.

If things couldn’t have been going much worse for the company, their top star John Cena was injured last week and will be out injured for around 7 to 12 months. With Cena pulling in a lot of ratings and being by far the top seller in regards to merchandise, it is expected that he may have some kind of role in the television shows, but that is only being discussed at the moment.

With regards to the low PPV buys, the WWE have decided that only five pay-per-views will remain in place for the next calendar year at bigger arena’s with the Royal Rumble, Wrestlemania, King of the Ring making its return, Summerslam and Survivor Series being the five to add importance to the shows that were lacking in meaning and were rushed like the shows that have been in place this year. With this in mind, Saturday Nights Main Event will return in March and August, but we will also see the show at the end of December too, which will start at the end of this year. By doing this, the WWE are trying to make the TV shows seem more important and to add some more credibility to them and the company in the process.

Another one of several major decisions has seen ECW scrapped immediately due to its poor ratings and feedback from agents. This was seen to be coming for a long time and with its small roster, they have been split between both Raw and Smackdown rosters, which have also seen some changes between them, but none of any major note this far.

However, several workers have been removed from the rosters on WWE.com with Ric Flair and King Booker along with his wife Queen Sharmell apparently leaving the company after lots of speculation around their current situations. This is not seen as a big surprise as Flair and Booker had made themselves very unpopular with management in the build up to their disappearance from television tapings. It must be noted that it has NOT been confirmed by either parties that they have indeed left the company. The other main departure sees Vickie Guerrero leave her role as General Manager of Smackdown, but this is due mainly to family reasons with Vickie missing her children and vice versa. No replacement has been announced yet but Teddy Long will not be making a return to television in the near future. The Major Brothers have been removed from the roster but remain in Ohio Valley Wrestling since their disastrous debut on Smackdown after leaving ECW. Mike Knox has also been released from his WWE contract while ECW General Manager Armando Alejandro Estrada’s profile is no longer on the WWE website, but he has not been released, this is the same situation that Tazz, Joey Styles, Kelly Kelly, Layla and Brooke find themselves in since ECW’s demise.

On the injury front, John Cena as we know is out for the considerable future, Edge is recovering well and is set to return in the next 4 to 6 weeks. Bobby Lashley is pushing for a return at the end of the year and Gregory Helms is the only other long term absentee with a severe neck injury that will see him out until around June next year. Shawn Michaels remains on the sidelines at home following knee surgery several months ago, but there is no word on whether he is ready to return just yet.

On the TNA front, Bound For Glory takes place in six days time boosted by the news that they have signed former WWE superstars Rob Conway and Rob Van Dam. Any WWE return for Van Dam has officially gone out of the window now. However, the Chris Jericho debate continues to go on with neither Jericho or the WWE confirming that he has indeed signed a contract following the cryptic messages that have been displayed on Raw over the last few weeks.





Head of Authority: Eric Bischoff
Announce Team: Jim Ross & Jerry 'The King' Lawler
Ring Announcer: Lilian Garcia
Backstage Interviewers: Todd Grisham & Leticia Cline

~The Hall of Champions~


***Defeated Edge to win the vacant title at Backlash (27/4/09)***
PREVIOUS CHAMPION: Shawn Michaels (4)


***Won a fatal four-way on Raw (22/9/08)***
PREVIOUS CHAMPION: Ted DiBiase (1)


***Defeated Rey Mysterio & Mystico (1) on Raw (19/1/09)***


***Defeated Beth Phoenix (4) & O.D.B. at Extreme Rules (26/4/09)***


Carlito
Cesaro
Chris Jericho
Christopher Daniels
Cody Rhodes
Eddie Colon
Edge
Eugene
Ezekiel Jackson
Finlay
Goldust
Gregory Helms
Hardcore Holly
Jack Swagger
Joe Hennig
John Cena
John Morrison
JTG
Justin Gabriel
Kaval
Kofi Kingston
Matt Hardy
Mystico
Orlando Jordan
Rey Mysterio
Rob Van Dam
Shad Gaspard
Shannon Moore
Sheamus
The Miz
Zack Ryder

Divas
Angel Love
Brie Bella
Gail Kim
Kelly Kelly
Melina
Mia Rain
Nikki Bella
Queen Kong
Talia Sky

Tag Teams/Stables
Cryme Time
Eugene & Goldust
J'n'J (John Morrison & Justin Gabriel)
Picture Perfect (Angel Love & Talia Sky)
Rey Mysterio & Mystico
Team Omega (Matt Hardy, Gregory Helms & Shannon Moore)
The Bella Twins (Brie & Nikki)
The Colon Brothers
The Epitome of Excellence (Christopher Daniels & Kaval)
The King's Men (Cody Rhodes & Joe Hennig)




General Manager(s): Mr. McMahon & Stephanie McMahon
Announce Team: Michael Cole & Matt Striker
Ring Announcer: Justin Roberts
Backstage Interviewers: Josh Matthews & Maria

~The Hall of Champions~


***Defeated CM Punk (1) at Wrestlemania (29/3/09)***


***Defeated Matt Sydal (1) at the Royal Rumble (18/1/09)***


***Defeated The Empire (Wade Barrett & Drew McIntyre) (1) on Smackdown (9/1/09)***


***Defeated Johnny Jeter (1) on Smackdown 14/11/08)***


***Defeated Beth Phoenix (4) & O.D.B. at Extreme Rules (26/4/09)***






Alberto Del Rio
Bobby Lashley
Brian Kendrick
Bryan Danielson
Charlie Haas
Chavo Guerrero
Chris Masters
Christian
CM Punk
Dolph Ziggler
Drew McIntyre
Elijah Burke
Harry Smith
Homicide
J-Red
Jamie Noble
Jay Lethal
Jimmy Yang
Johnny Devine
Johnny Jeter
Kid Kash
Matt Sydal
Michael Shane
Montel Vontavious Porter
Paul Burchill
Paul London
Petey Williams
Randy Orton
Ron Killings
Santino Marella
Shelton Benjamin
Sonjay Dutt
Super Crazy
Ted DiBiase
TJ Wilson
Wade Barrett
William Regal
Yoshi Tatsu

Divas
Beth Phoenix
Jillian Hall
Katie Lee – Valet & Member of The Empire
Layla
Maria – Also a Backstage Interviewer
'The Million Dollar Woman' Maryse – Valet & Girlfriend of Ted DiBiase
Michelle McCool
Mickie James
Natalya Neidhart – Valet & Girlfriend of TJ Wilson
O.D.B.
Stepahnie McMahon – Executive Vice-President

Tag Teams/Stables
CM Punk & Homicide
Jimmy Yang & Sonjay Dutt
M.V.P. & Ron Killings
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
Power & Perfection (Bobby Lashley & Charlie Haas)
The Empire (Drew McIntyre, Wade Barrett, William Regal & Katie Lee)
The Pitbulls (Jamie Noble & Kid Kash)
The UK Pack (Paul Burchill & Harry Smith)




FCW Heavyweight Champion
Ryback

FCW Tag Team Champions
The Rotundas

FCW Women's Champion
Nikki Roxx

FCW Television Champion
Damien Sandow


Alex Riley (Kevin Kiley)
'The Intellectual Saviour' Damien Sandow (Aaron Haddad)
Darren Young (Frederick Rosser)
'The Valedictorian' David Otunga
'The Maniacal Genius' Dean Ambrose (Jonathan Good)
Fandango (Jonathan Curtis)
'The Beast' G-Rilla (George Murdoch)
'The One Man Band' Heath Slater (Heath Miller)
The Mexican Assassin' Hunico (Jorge Arias)
Jay Uso (Joshua Fatu)
Jimmy Uso (Jonathan Fatu)
'The Human Wrecking Ball' Ryback (Ryan Reeves)
Taylor Rotunda
Tito Colon (Orlando Colon)
'The Ultimate Daredevil' Tyler Black (Colby Lopez)
Windham Rotunda
'The King of Charisma' Xavier Woods (Austin Watson)

Tag Teams/Stables
Alex Riley & Darren Young
Samoan Fury (Jimmy & Jay Uso)
The Harvard Alumni (David Otunga, Damien Sandow, Dean Ambrose & Alicia Fox)
The Rotundas (Taylor & Windham)

Female Performers
'The New Jersey Princess' AJ Lee (April Jeanette)
'The Complete Woman' Alicia Fox (Victoria Crawford)
'The Fearless Angel' Nikki Roxx (Nicole Raczynski)
'Queen Bitch' Rosa Mendes (Milena Roucka)
Serena Deeb
'The Girl Nextdoor' Shantelle Taylor (Shantelle Malawski)
Tamina Snuka (Sarona Reiher)

________


If anyone didn’t catch the No Mercy results from last night, here they are:

Triple H defeated Randy Orton to win the WWE Championship (11:15)

Mr. Kennedy and Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch defeated Jeff Hardy, Paul London and Brian Kendrick (8:06)

CM Punk defeated Big Daddy V (w/Matt Striker) by disqualification to retain the ECW Championship (1:37)

Triple H defeated Umaga to retain the WWE Championship (6:33)

Finlay fought Rey Mysterio to a no-contest (9:08)

Beth Phoenix defeated Candice Michelle to win the WWE Women's Championship (4:32)

Batista defeated The Great Khali (w/Ranjin Singh) in a Punjabi Prison match to retain the World Heavyweight Championship (14:47)

Randy Orton defeated Triple H in a Last Man Standing match to win the WWE Championship (20:25)


PAY-PER-VIEW SCHEDULE 2009

RAW & SMACKDOWN PRESENT:
King of the Ring (4 Hours)
Sunday 31st May
From The Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia

RAW PRESENTS:
Vengeance (3 Hours)
Sunday 14th June
From The Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

SMACKDOWN PRESENTS:
The Great American Bash (3 Hours)
Sunday 5th July
From The Scottrade Arena in St. Louis, Missouri

RAW & SMACKDOWN PRESENT:
SummerSlam (4 Hours)
Sunday 23rd August
From The Rogers Center in Toronto, Ontario (Canada)


OVERSEAS TELEVISION SCHEDULE 2009
(To be recorded due to time difference)

APRIL
Friday 3rd – Smackdown
(To be recorded on Tuesday 31st March)
The Sheffield Arena
Sheffield, England

Monday 6th – Raw
Adriatic Arena
Pesaro, Italy

Friday 10th – Smackdown
(To be recorded on Tuesday 7th April)
Olympiahalle
Munich, Germany


*Pay-Per-View History & Links*

Cyber Sunday 2007
2007 Survivor Series
2007 Year Ending Saturday Night's Main Event
2008 Royal Rumble
Pre-Wrestlemania Saturday Night's Main Event
Wrestlemania 24
Backlash 2008
Judgment Day 2008
2008 King of the Ring
Vengeance 2008
The Great American Bash 2008
Summerslam 2008
Unforgiven 2008
No Mercy 2008
2008 Survivor Series
Night of Champions 2008
2009 Royal Rumble (20th Annual)
No Way Out 2009
Wrestlemania 25 Pre-Show
Wrestlemania 25
Backlash 2009
Extreme Rules 2009


 
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14
#902 ·
What I Liked​

Wilson and Hart getting a chance to become tag champs.

The DiBiase brothers are awesomeness anything with them at the moment I love.

Love The Emipire

Television championship qualifying matches. Makes mid card kind of thing more interesting.

The Empire winning was probably my favorite part of the show even though I like Wilson and Hart as well.

What I Didn’t Like​

DiBiase brothers losing to the Badstreet Boys.

Brie Bella jobbing to Roucka

Okay mate so my reviews for your weekly shows will be proper reviews and not like this I just thought I would leave some comments on FCW. Now I know I have said this before but I 100 % intend to start reviewing All your shows for now on:)
 
#905 ·
Heyman Deciple's Smackdown Review

Hey Nige sorry about not being that active lately but anyway on with the review.

Shawn-Edge-Linda: Dear god not Linda. Anyway this was a very good way to start the show with Shawn’s emotional promo followed by Edge actually giving Shawn a little respect followed up by his demand for a rematch and Linda making tonight’s main event of Edge Vs. the Undertaker, which should be good.

Shawn-Michael Shane: Nice little segment here between the cousins. I liked Shawn’s line about not wanting to give anything to Michael Shane about wanting his cousin to earn it and Shane’s reaction was really good.

Linda-Mickie-Estrada: This was good as it sets up a Women’s match for later and Estrada gets put in his place by Linda.

Killings Vs. Jordan: Solid match and a nice win for Ron Killings.

Mickie Vs. Beth: Good divas action I’m more of a Beth fan so I was rooting for her but still a good win for Mickie James.

Sydal-Jeter: I liked how Matt Sydal seemed all depressed over what happened at WrestleMania.

Matt Hardy Interview: Nice interview here which hypes up the U.S. Title rematch between Matt and Shelton Benjamin for later in the show.

Masters & Haas Vs. Sydal & Jeter: It was good seeing Burchill and Harry Smith at the announcer’s table. Nice win for Charlie Haas and Chris Masters, Haas in particular looked really impressive. The after match attack on Haas and Masters by Tommy Dreamer and Stevie Richards was good too.

Edge-Michael Shane: Solid segment here with Michael Shane actually standing up for himself, which I liked.

MVP-Burke: I really enjoyed this as MVP looked good in his MITB victory promo and out comes Elijah Burke who came out of this looking very strong. I approve.

Matt Hardy Vs. Shelton Benjamin: Holy swerves bat man. I did not see that coming. Shelton Benjamin actually regains the U.S. Title thanks to interference from CM Punk.

Punk-Matt Hardy: Good interview with CM Punk explaining things and Matt Hardy’s reaction to Punk leaving for some reason I found to be very funny.

Undertaker Vs. Edge: Good main event, the choke slam through the table was good. Too bad this ended on a count out but it was the right decision, as it didn’t make Edge look too weak coming out of WrestleMania. Plus Shawn Vs. Undertaker will be awesome of course Edge could always work his way back in somehow. It should be interesting to see where things are going.

Good show Nige, I give it a 9 out of 10.
 
#906 ·
WWE.com - Television - Raw (Preview - 7th April 2008)

RAW Preview
7th April 2008

Myriad Arena
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma





THE REMATCH IS SET
The entire wrestling world was waiting to see how Randy Orton would react to losing the WWE Championship going in to Raw last Monday night. It turned out as we expected, not well! As soon as the first match was over, The Legend Killer stormed down to the ring, barging past Mr. Money in the Bank, MVP on the way. The former WWE Champion entered the ring as MVP’s opponent, Mr. Kennedy started to come round after the loss, but Orton stunned everyone by punting him in the head. During the break, Kennedy was attended to by medics who then stretchered him to the back as Orton demanded to be given his rematch later that night.

It wasn’t that simple, as Eric Bischoff told the inpatient third generation superstar, telling him he would have to wait until Backlash to get his hands on the new champion, Kane. However, he was given the chance to step inside the ring with the monster at the same time as Bischoff put them in a tag team match to take on the Smackdown duo of The Undertaker, and the World Heavyweight Champion, Shawn Michaels. Orton believed he was coasting to victory, but he soon got carried away with himself, leading to him receiving a chokeslam from “The Big Red Machine” Kane. Is this a sign of things to come, or will The Legend Killer pick himself up as he heads to Raw without the WWE title that he became accustomed to?

ONE NIGHT STAND, WHAT ONE NIGHT STAND? EVOLUTION ARE HERE TO STAY
When Batista & Ric Flair came to the aid of Triple H and reform Evolution at Wrestlemania to take on The McMahon’s, we all thought it would be for one night only. However, that all changed last week, thanks to the WWE Draft. Earlier in the evening, The Nature Boy was drafted to Raw, and in the main event, we saw Smackdown’s Batista & Raw’s JBL battle it out for the last draft pick. With Shane O Mac injured, it was left to Mr. McMahon himself to try and help his other son to victory, and that he did, but it must be something he regrets right now.

Spotting the danger to JBL, Vince entered the ring with a steel chair, only for Batista to tear him in half with a spear and subsequently steal the chair. The chair shot that followed did more damage to JBL and his family than initially first thought as they will have no choice but to deal with the fact Batista was drafted to Raw and that Evolution will be around for a lot longer than everyone thought. It seems that there may be trouble ahead!

WE HAVE A NEW INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION
A bolt out of the blue hit Raw last Monday night when Eric Bischoff sprung a surprise title defence on the then Intercontinental Champion, CM Punk. Forced in to a four team elimination match, Punk and his partner, Colt Cabana fought their way past two Smackdown teams, leaving them with just Kofi Kingston & Cody Rhodes. However, an argument earlier in the evening came back to haunt Punk as Matt Hardy shocked us all with his presence and gave Punk his first taste of the Twist of Fate to the delight of the fans in attendance. Kofi was able to capitalise and win the Intercontinental Championship to the shock of everyone watching, including his own partner. Cody didn’t know what to make of the difficult situation, but maybe things will become clearer this Monday night in Oklahoma City with Punk now part of the Smackdown roster following his draft.

NEW FACES TO BE SEEN
It’s fair to say that Raw lost some big names in the draft last week in the shape of Chris Jericho, CM Punk & Elijah Burke, but the “A” show will be welcoming Batista, Ric Flair, Kenny Dykstra & Finlay amongst others this week. Dykstra had a brief run in with John Cena last week, maybe this arrogant young superstar believes he has one bright future on Monday nights.

REGAL HAS A DECISION TO MAKE
Arguably the most controversial draft last week was that of Smackdown General Manager, William Regal. It appears that Regal will not be able to return to that post, leaving him open to the offer from Eric Bischoff to become his Executive Assistant. The Raw Head of Authority wants an answer this week from the much travelled Englishman, but will he get the one he wants to hear?

CHAMPS LOSE OUT AGAIN!
The World Tag Team Champions, Paul London & Brian Kendrick haven’t been at their best in recent weeks, and last Monday night they went head to head with Smackdown’s tag champs, The UK Pack. The British duo were able to earn two draft picks for their brand while at the same time, defeating Raw’s champs on their home turf for the second time in a month. Surely the high fliers will be out to prove a point after another setback.

THE MILLION DOLLAR SON MAKES HIS MARK
Ted DiBiase had a busy Wrestlemania weekend, being inducted in to the WWE Hall of Fame, but he wasn’t done there. He shocked the thousands of fans crammed in to The Orlando Arena last week to introduce his son, Ted DiBiase Jr, along with “The Million Dollar Woman” Maryse to them. He wasn’t done there as he presented his son with the Million Dollar Championship, and Ted Jr didn’t hesitate in putting it on the line in his first WWE appearance. He breezed past Funaki to retain the title and earn Raw the draft pick of William Regal. This youngster looks like a chip off the old block, and you have to wonder if he will be just a big a name as his dad. What’s next for the Million Dollar Champion on his WWE journey?

THE GLAMAZON SAYS HER GOODBYES TO NATALYA & THE WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP
There was more than just one controversial draft pick last Monday as we saw Raw divas, Mickie James & Beth Phoenix head for pastures new on Smackdown. It came as a huge shock to Mickie and some of the other divas, but it was a source of amusement for The Glamazon & Natalya Neidhart. Together they have been inseparable since Natalya helped Beth retain her Womens Championship against Victoria back in February, but she was powerless to stop Victoria taking the title at Wrestlemania. With The Glamazon following Mickie in a move sure not to go down well with Natalya, where does this leave the state of the divas division?



 
#907 ·
Hey Nige, preview looks really nice mate and as i sad previously i really am going to make an effort to keep up with this thread from now on. I don't know if i have told you previously but MVP as MITB absolutely rules. Anyway show looks good nothing really stands out as something i must see compared to the rest because at this stage it all seems pretty compelling. Weird you didn't announce any matches though :)
 
#908 ·
Hey Nige, dropping in for the first time in a while, and Raw is looking good. I love the Kane and Randy Orton feud that you have going on, and also the McMahons up against the reunited Evolution. I love Regal as both an authority figure and a wrestler, so whichever way you go with him, I will enjoy it. I loved the Hardy vs. Punk feud, and now that it is Matt Hardy vs. Punk, it is my thread all over again :p. Anyways, as I said, Raw is looking great, and expect a review from me once it is up.
 
#909 ·
WWE.com HOMEPAGE - Raw Results (7th April 2008)

RAW Results
7th April 2008

Myriad Arena
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma




***VIDEO RECAP***
From Last Week

  • Randy Orton pacing down to the ring, barging past MVP on the ramp, entering the ring and punting Mr. Kennedy in the head
  • Kennedy being stretchered away with Orton then demanding his title rematch, but Bischoff telling him it will happen at Backlash
  • Bischoff announcing it would be Orton & Kane teaming up to face Shawn Michaels & The Undertaker later on
  • Orton being chokeslammed by Kane in their match and losing the match
  • Batista facing JBL in the main event, getting disqualified after he speared Vince and hit JBL with a chair
  • The final draft selection with the tron showing Batista as the last pick, meaning Evolution are all together again on Raw
  • Evolution posing at the end of the show, raising their arms together in the air

***OPENING VIDEO***
“Wanna Be Loved”


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


“Line in the Sand”
blasts out as Evolution make their way down to the ring to a huge pop. All three men are dressed in suits and are smiling as they enter the ring with Triple H collecting a microphone. He starts off saying to the fans that thanks to the draft last week, they’re going to have to get used to seeing Evolution back together, getting a huge pop. He acknowledges that they seem pretty happy with that, and then says that he’s never been so happy to see Batista lose a match in all his life with Big Dave grinning. He says that it couldn’t have been in any better circumstances with Vince trying to do everything he could to help his bastard son win the match, and even though he did, he could feel the world crashing down around him. The crowd cheer as Hunter then says that if beating Vince and his boys at Wrestlemania wasn’t sweet enough, that was, but he says that it’s time to move on, past all the arguments, all the family warfare and everything to do with Vince and his boys.

He says that there was a time when Evolution dominated Raw, holding every title, and that that time will come on once again, saying that they are the most dominant collection of individuals ever assembled on this planet, and that no one will ever be able to change the fact that together, they are unstoppable. A massive cheer breaks out with The Game then handing the microphone over to The Nature Boy, but just before he can speak, “No Chance in Hell” hits as Vince McMahon, Shane McMahon & JBL all walk out to the stage. JBL walks halfway down the ramp with a microphone as Shane & Vince follow behind, all looking very unhappy. JBL gets right to the point by saying that Evolution might be a great collection of something, but it’s not individuals, then says they’re the greatest collection of blind egos. He then tells them that they are in fact looking at the greatest collection of men, in his father and half brother. He brings up the fact that they are all millionaires and intelligent to the point of perfection, and that is why they will be able to put a halt on this temporary reformation of the most washed up trash ever to grace his father’s ring.

The fans boo incredibly loud, but JBL carries on and says that together with his family, they will banish Evolution from that ring. With heating just filling the arena, JBL then says that it makes him sick that he has to put up with them for a second longer, but says he has to do what is right for his father and his business, and that is putting an end to this joke of a reunion sooner rather than later, not just for the benefit of his father, but for his own personal satisfaction. He tells the fans to imagine what Raw would be like without Evolution, then says he would love nothing more than to be responsible for what would be the greatest achievement of his already highly successful life. Flair has enough and dares JBL to try it because he would love nothing more than to shut that big mouth of his, sooner rather than later, right now in fact. JBL takes his jacket off and then his tie, passing them to his father as he walks forward to the end of the ramp with Flair urging him in to the ring. Shane and Vince follow him as Flair taunts JBL further, telling him to put his money where his mouth is, asking him if he’s all talk.

That angers JBL as he walks up to the apron and climbs on up, but Shane steps forward and pulls him down and takes the microphone from an irate JBL. He tells him to ignore Flair and says that they had their moment at Wrestlemania, but that will all change come Backlash. Evolution look concerned in the ring as Shane then says that they have the right to be worried because what happened at Wrestlemania is in the past, it’s what happens from right now that is important. Shane smiles and hands the microphone over to his beaming father, who says that they’ve just come from a meeting with Eric Bischoff, and says that it appears that the bang on the head he got from Triple H a couple of weeks ago might just have had an effect. He says that losing at Wrestlemania, his own personal creation was one of the most embarrassing moments of his life, and says that he won’t allow that to haunt him any longer. He then says that’s why they had to take action, and that action was going to Bischoff and demanding a rematch at Backlash, but he then points out that there was a slight problem.

He says that Bischoff wouldn’t sanction the match, but says he will allow a match of sorts to take place if Evolution agrees to it. Vince then asks them if they’re going to step in to the lion’s den, or back out. The Game, Batista & Flair all turn and look at each other with Triple H taking the microphone from Flair and says that there’s nothing in the world would give them more pleasure, then says it’s on. The crowd cheer like crazy, but JBL still looks intense, and he takes the microphone from his father before climbing back up on to the apron with Shane & Vince looking confused. JBL says that it might seem like Evolution might have an advantage going in to Backlash, but says that it doesn’t matter how they do it, but the fact is he and his family will enforce their revenge on them. Evolution stare at JBL, who then says that they should take him very seriously, because he is going to make sure of it.

He then says that if there is any justice in the world, Triple H will suffer the agony he deserves for everything he’s done, and that if justice prevails like it should, not only will Evolution lose at Backlash, but for the good of her unborn child, Stephanie will lose Triple H’s baby. Gasps ring out from the crowd, but all three members of Evolution charge at JBL, who drops off the apron to the floor below. The Game & Co looked like they could kill him as they then race through the ropes and run right at JBL who is too slow to react as Evolution pummel away at him, knocking him to his knees as they then stomp across his back. Vince & Shane try and come to his rescue, but they’re just pushed away with Evolution continuing the pummelling of JBL. After about ten seconds, we then see a group of security workers racing down the ramp to break it up, getting in between Evolution & JBL as Vince & Shane pull JBL to safety as Evolution desperately try, but fail to get past security. They yell past them as a battered and dazed JBL is helped up by his father and half brother to heat from the crowd.


[Commercial Break]


Evolution are being escorted down the hall by security to the door of the parking lot with Eric Bischoff standing there. Triple H asks him if he is responsible for this, and the Head of Authority says that he is, but he says he has no choice. Batista has his say and tells Bischoff that it was JBL who caused all this, not them and Bischoff tells him he’s right, but says that it’s not JBL who needs to cool down. He then says that it’s best for everyone if they take the rest of the night off. Flair asks Bischoff if he’s asking or telling them, and Bischoff says that he’s telling them to leave, and if they don’t, he’ll make sure they’re removed. The Game doesn’t look happy, just like Batista & Flair, but as he’s been escorted through the door, he turns back and tells Bischoff that he better not be siding with Vince, but Bischoff tells him he’s being ridiculous. Just as Flair is escorted out, he turns back and tells Bischoff that he best not be lying. Bischoff shakes his head and turns round to walk down the hall as security removes Evolution from the arena. Bischoff then walks down the hall and back in to his office where a suited and booted William Regal is sat down waiting for him.

He stands up and greets Bischoff politely with Bischoff then saying that he presumes this is about his offer last week. Regal says it is and that he has spoken to Linda McMahon, and there is absolutely no possibility of him being given his job back as General Manager on Smackdown. Bischoff says that’s a shame, but also says that he wants to make it perfectly clear that he never intended Regal to get drafted, but he wants to make good light of a bad situation by offering an olive branch to a new Raw employee. Regal says that he appreciates the offer to be his Executive Assistant, and because he doesn’t feel the need to get back in the ring anytime soon, if at all, he would like to accept the position. Bischoff says that’s great and shakes Regal’s hand, then says that next week, Regal won’t be the second in command as Bischoff says that he needs a week off after everything going on with Wrestlemania and what not, giving Regal all the power when Raw goes to Japan. Regal smiles wildly and says that he’s very grateful, then says that he doesn’t want to interfere, but mentions that he has an idea for tonight. Bischoff seems intrigued and asks to hear it, sitting down on the sofa, joined by Regal as the camera fades out.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


***THE OPENING MATCH***


Finlay vs
Santino Marella w/Melina

ENDING: Finlay reverses a whip from Santino in to the corner. He takes a second before running in, but Santino gets a boot up in to Finlay’s face, sending him staggering out of the corner. Marella walks out behind Finlay and takes him down with an INVERTED SWINGING NECKBREAKER. . . . . He crawls over and hooks the leg, then demands the referee make the cover, yelling at him as he drops to the mat and makes the cover . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Finlay just kicks out, leaving Santino stunned. He sits up and argues with the referee. He then sees the shillelagh in the corner and stands up, then walks over to pick it up. Just as he does, Hornswoggle crawls out from under the ring, scaring Melina as he grabs hold of her legs. She screams out, catching the attention of Santino who turns round and drops the shillelagh, then walks over to the ropes to try and rescue Melina, sticking his head through the ropes and yelling at the leprechaun. The referee feels the need to get involved and walks over to the ropes, but Finlay turns over and grabs the shillelagh before standing up with the ref’s attention elsewhere. Hornswoggle lets go and Santino turns round in to Finlay and a shot with the shillelagh. The Irishman slides it back in to the corner and goes for the cover as the referee turns back round and makes the count . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3 .


WINNER: Finlay by pinfall @ 5.29.

AFTERMATH: “Lambeg” hits to a pop as Hornswoggle joins Finlay in the ring and hugs his leg. Melina stays on the outside, looking disgusted by the leprechaun as Santino remains out of it in the middle of the ring. Finlay lifts Hornswoggle up on to his shoulder and walks over to the ropes, posing for the crowd before dropping Horny back down to his feet, picking up the shillelagh and walking to the back with big smiles on their faces.


[Commercial Break]


Eric Bischoff & William Regal are sat down still in Bischoff’s office, and Bischoff tells Regal that he loves his idea and they’ll announce it after the next match. Then, Cody Rhodes walks in with some cheers coming from inside the arena. Bischoff introduces Cody to Regal and asks him what he wants, and Cody doesn’t look his usual self. He seems a bit angry and says that what happened last week with Kofi winning the Intercontinental Championship was really unfair on him. Bischoff & Regal listen as Cody goes on to say that he knows Kofi pinned CM Punk, but says that they were a team, and he thinks that he is just as entitled to the title as Kofi, then asks for Bischoff to reverse the decision and make a match between them for the title. Regal asks Bischoff what this is about, and Bischoff tells him that the rules of the match were that CM Punk would defend the Intercontinental Championship in a four team elimination match with the man getting the final fall becoming the new champion, which was Kofi with Cody as his partner.

Regal says it’s a difficult situation, and Bischoff then tells Cody that they were the rules, everyone knew it, so there’s not much he can do. Cody tells him that’s stupid, and Bischoff then looks at the youngster and says he will discuss it with Regal to see what they can do. Cody thanks him and walks out of the dressing room with the camera following him as he turns round to see Kofi Kingston & Kelly Kelly standing further down the hallway. He doesn’t look happy and walks down to them and they ask him where he’s been, and he says that’s it’s not important. He then asks Kofi if he spends a lot of time with his girlfriend when he’s not around. Kofi looks surprised Cody said that, as does Kelly with Cody then saying maybe Carlito had a point about them. He then grabs a shocked Kelly by the arm and drags her away from Kofi. As they get further away, Cody lets go as Kelly looks at him, seemingly asking him what he’s doing, but he just tells her to be quiet as the Intercontinental Champion looks on in amazement at Cody’s behaviour.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


***MATCH #2***


Candice Michelle
vs Natalya Neidhart

ENDING: The Womens Champion, Victoria watches on from the announce table as Natalya takes it to Candice, picking her up from the mat and kicking her in the gut. Candice holds her stomach with Natalya not relenting, grabbing her around the waist and lifting her off her feet, then planting her with a BACKBREAKER. . . . . The dangerous diva then hooks Candice’s leg as she goes for a cover . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Candice just gets her shoulder up, but she looks in trouble. Natalya stands back up, but she walks right round to Candice’s legs, lifts them up in the air and quickly applies THE SHARPSHOOTER. . . . . Candice screams out in pain as the determined Natalya applies the pressure, and quickly Candice gives it up and taps out with the referee calling for the bell.


WINNER: Natalya Neidhart by pinfall @ 4.36.

AFTERMATH: Natalya’s music hits and she walks over to the ropes and looks down at Victoria, who doesn’t take her eyes off Natalya.


“I’m Back” then hits to their surprise as Eric Bischoff walks out to the stage with a microphone in hand. He congratulates Natalya on her victory, but says that earlier on, he appointed an Executive Assistant. He then tells the crowd to welcome to Raw, William Regal. “Promenade” plays as Regal walks out to the stage to join Bischoff, who tells the fans that he and Regal were discussing an idea his Executive Assistant had moments ago, and he thinks they are going to love it. He then hands over to Regal and walks to the back as Regal then says that despite leaving Smackdown, he is privileged to have the chance to work alongside Eric Bischoff, someone who has made a massive impact in this business. He then says that he’s grateful Bischoff has allowed him to have his own input in to the show, as well as letting him introduce it himself. With the fans wondering what is going on, Regal then says that in that very ring later on tonight, we are going to see the new WWE Champion, Kane, make his first title defence right here on Raw. A massive pop comes from the crowd as Regal then says that he will be defending it against John Cena. Another pop breaks out as Regal then says that the winner will defend the title against Randy Orton at Backlash. He thanks them for their time and makes his way to the back.


[Commercial Break]


***VIDEO PROMO***





***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


“Priceless” plays as the Million Dollar Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr & “The Million Dollar Woman” Maryse walk down to the ring, looking very arrogant. Once they get in the ring, DiBiase asks for a microphone. He says that last week he made a very impressive debut, proving why everyone across the world is referring to him as the greatest prospect in the history of the WWE, but says he found it very disrespectful that his opponent was someone who should be shining his boots, not competing in the same ring. He then says that Eric Bischoff needs to realise that he is the superstar that is going to earn Raw millions of dollars for years to come, so he should learn to treat him with the respect that someone with the talent that he possesses should be. He says that to avoid a repeat of that, he is offering any superstar in the back who they think is worthy, a chance to compete for the Million Dollar Championship. He then says that he knows it’s going to be intimidating for anyone to step in to the ring at the same time as a DiBiase, but he says miracles can happen every now and again.

He steps back and passes the microphone back as “Child’s Play” hits with Eugene making his way down to the ring to a pop from the crowd. DiBiase & Maryse look on in disbelief, asking each other if Eugene is serious. DiBiase asks for the microphone back as Eugene gets in the ring. He tells Eugene that he asked for someone who would be actual competition, not an escaped mental patient. Eugene looks sad, but DiBiase then tells him to come right up to him. He asks Eugene what a retard like him makes him think he can beat a global phenomenon, and asks him if he’s going to tickle him to death or gas him with real arm farts. DiBiase calls Eugene a joke and to go back to whatever institute it is he escaped from, but Eugene snaps and nails DiBiase with a right hand. With the crowd cheering, the ref picks up the microphone and calls for the bell as Maryse panics and collects DiBiase’s belt before leaving the ring.


***MATCH #3***

Million Dollar Championship

Open Challenge
Eugene
vs
Ted DiBiase Jr (c) w/“The Million Dollar Woman” Maryse

ENDING: A cocky DiBiase reaches down and pulls Eugene back up to his feet. He holds on to his head, mocking Eugene by laughing at him, but as he throws a right hand, Eugene blocks it and hammers away at the shell shocked Million Dollar Champion. Eugene forces him back in to the ropes, then grabs him by the arm and whips him in to the opposite ropes. He walks back in to the centre as DiBiase comes back off the ropes and in to a big boot from Eugene who starts jumping up and down, then does his Hogan pose. The fans cheer Eugene as he goes to all four sides of the ring and gets cheers from each one before walking back in to the ropes, then going for THE BIG LEG DROP. . . . . But DiBiase rolls to the side with Eugene hitting the canvas, then slowly standing back up with DiBiase doing the same, stalking Eugene. As the sore Eugene stands back up, DiBiase lifts his arms up behind him and locks in THE MILLION DOLLAR DREAM. . . . . Eugene tries to fight the hold as DiBiase’s face turns red, trying desperately to put Eugene away, and slowly the challenger starts to dwindle. The referee lifts his arm up and lets it go, with it dropping twice, and for one final time, he lets go of the arm with Eugene unable to fight the hold, giving DiBiase the win. The champion doesn’t want to let go either, and only does so at the count of four with Eugene just slumping down to the mat.


WINNER: By submission, and still the Million Dollar Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr @ 5.42.

AFTERMATH: “Priceless” plays, but as soon as DiBiase gets his arm raised, he pulls it away and demands a microphone. Maryse snatches it for him on the outside, giving Lilian a really dirty look as she does so. She climbs up the steps to get in the ring, and then gives Ted Jr the microphone as the referee checks on Eugene and calls for help from the back. He says that this is what is going to happen if people don’t take him seriously, because if jokers like Eugene are going to keep walking on down here, they won’t be walking back without help. He then says that he hopes this example has proved a point and made people realise that he is in fact, simply priceless.


***CUT BACKSTAGE***


The Colon Brothers & Eric Perez are talking against a wall in the hallway, not looking too happy. Eddie says that they should be the number one contenders, and Carlito agrees, saying that Morrison & Miz already lost at Wrestlemania. Eddie then replies by saying it’s very not cool and that they’d beat London & Kendrick easy, and that he thinks Miz & Morrison will screw it up again just like Wrestlemania. Cryme Time then walk in to the shot to a pop from the fans in the arena. Shad tells JTG to look who it is, calling them the all talk brothers. Perez steps towards them, but Carlito stands up with his apple in hand and says he has it under control. He says they’ve seen Cryme Time try and be cool like them, but he tells them it’s not working, they’re not cool, they’re a joke.

It doesn’t bother them, and JTG says that was cold, not cool but cold. Shad then walks right up to Carlito and says he has a special deal especially for him tonight and tells him he’s going to like it. Carlito stands there all smug and asks him what it is, and after a couple of seconds, Shad smiles and punches Carlito to the delight of the watching fans in the arena. The apple falls out of Carlito’s hand and Shad says that he just got a knock down price. Eddie tries to get at Shad, but Perez blocks him off. Shad tells him he can make it a real special offer, saying there’s plenty to go around. A pissed Eddie & Perez help Carlito up as Shad picks the apple up and tosses it back, then tells him they’ll see them around. The Colon’s & Perez look pissed as Shad & JTG walk up the hall laughing.


***VIDEO PROMO***




[Commercial Break]


***VIDEO PROMO***

John Cena
is shown getting ready for his WWE Championship match with Kane in his locker room, putting his pads on as the crowd cheer in the arena.


***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Todd Grisham is standing by and introduces us to his guest at this time, “The Legend Killer” Randy Orton. The former WWE Champion walks in to the shot with heat coming from the fans in the arena. Todd says that before they talk about the WWE Championship match later on tonight, he wants to ask him just why he attacked Mr. Kennedy last week. He also says that earlier on tonight, he heard that Mr. Kennedy could be out for a while because of the punt to the head, and asks Orton why he did it. Orton says that Kennedy is not his problem, it was simple, he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. He then says he lost his WWE Championship 24 hours earlier and he wanted it back right there and then, saying nothing else matters until he gets it back. Grisham then asks him about his thoughts for his rematch with Kane at Backlash. He says that it can’t come quick enough, but this way he can bide his time and wait until the time is right. He says that he wasn’t in the right frame of mind last week, saying he could have got flipped over the edge and gotten himself disqualified.

He then says that’s not going to be the case at Backlash because he can get his strategy in place, saying he’s got just under three weeks to make sure he has everything in place to get his title back. He then takes a short pause before saying he’s even happier that Kane has to defend the title tonight. He says that he’s never liked and never will like John Cena, but he knows that Cena is going to make life hell tonight for Kane, and says he wouldn’t be surprised if we saw a new champion tonight. Grisham then says that could well happen, but asks him who he would prefer to face at Backlash. Orton very confidently says he doesn’t care, because he’s already beat John Cena and he knows that he can beat Kane despite what some people think. He says he is still the true champion because he never lost the title, Cena lost if for him, and that’s something he will never forget. He then jokes again, saying he’s impressed Kane’s title reign has lasted longer than his other, but then says there’s not long to go before the title is back where it belongs, around the waist of The Legend Killer.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


***MATCH #4***


Cody Rhodes w/Kelly Kelly
vs Hardcore Holly

ENDING: Hardcore gives Cody a pounding in the corner with boots and fists to the stomach and face respectively. With Cody slumping down the pads, Holly grabs him by the arm and whips him in to the opposite corner. He then runs in at Cody, but the youngster turns to the side and lifts his elbow in to Holly’s face, sending him staggering out of the corner. Cody then pulls himself up to the second rope, and as Hardcore turns round, Cody dives off the top and connects with a DIVING CROSS BODY. . . . . The crowd cheers Cody as he holds on for a cover . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Holly lifts Cody off his chest as both men stand back up with Holly swinging a right hand, but Cody ducks it, stomps him in the chest and then plants him with a FLOWING SNAP DDT. . . . . The fans cheer as Cody shifts across and turns Holly over to go for a cover . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Cody Rhodes by pinfall @ 5.39.

AFTERMATH: “Out To Kill” hits as Cody stands up and gets his arm raised. Just as Kelly gets in the ring to join her boyfriend, Kofi Kingston walks down the ramp clapping, unknown to Cody, who walks in to the corner and poses for the crowd to a mostly favourable reaction. Kofi climbs in to the ring, taps Kelly on the shoulder with her then turning round and hugging Kofi to greet him. But at the same time, Cody steps down off the second top rope and turns round to see his partner and girlfriend hugging, and he doesn’t appear to be happy. He walks over to them and pulls them apart, but Kofi looks at him and asks him what he’s doing. Cody points at Kelly to tell him that she’s his, but Kofi tries to reason with him, only for Cody to shove him down to the mat. There are some boos from the crowd with Cody then grabbing Kelly by the arm, but she stays where she is. Cody isn’t happy and yells at Kelly, then drags her away to the ropes and orders her to leave the ring, which she does reluctantly as Kofi stands back up and looks shocked with Cody and Kelly arguing up the ramp.


[Commercial Break]


***VIDEO PROMO***

Shots of Kane in a deserted warehouse are shown with a worried looking Randy Orton lurking in the corners. A trail of fire then ignites around the now empty warehouse with glass shattering.

VOICEOVER: There comes a time when consequences will be felt. . . They come when you least expect them. . . They come when you don’t want them, but you have no option but to deal with them. . . You have to deal with the Backlash.





***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


“Ain’t No Make Believe” hits as John Morrison & The Miz walk down to the ring, looking very smug indeed. There are two stools in the ring with microphones on, and once in the ring, they pick up the microphones and sit down. Morrison says first off that he would like to personally apologise on behalf of Eric Bischoff for not having them appear last week due to the draft taking priority over the greatest tag team of the 21st century. The Miz backs him up and says that Bischoff realises he made a mistake, but he says they are moving on, something which they feel the need to talk about. He hands over to Morrison, who says that Miz is right, they are moving on, but they know two people that aren’t, two people who carrying on in the same manner they have for a long time. He says that the two people in question are the so called World Tag Team Champions, Paul London & Brian Kendrick. He then says that last week, they lost to their Smackdown counterparts for the second time in a month, calling that an embarrassment to Raw, something he and Miz wouldn’t allow to happen.

The Miz then says that what Morrison is saying couldn’t be truer, what London & Kendrick are getting away with is shambolic, and if they had known what they were signing up for when they joined Raw, they wouldn’t have bothered. Morrison takes centre stage again as he says that with every cloud, there is a silver lining, it appears that even Brian Kendrick has realised that he and Paul London aren’t up to the standard required to represent Raw the way they should. He points us in the direction of the tron, which shows us the finish to last week’s match between Londrick & The UK Pack with London hitting the super kick on Kendrick by mistake, and Kendrick looking angry with his partner afterwards. The Miz says that must have hurt Kendrick, and then says that he must be used to carrying the dead wood that is Paul London for over two years.

Morrison laughs and says that this was the team who had one of the longest title reigns in Smackdown history, and then says that something isn’t clicking for them on Raw. He says that they need two strong individuals who can handle the pressure and work well as a team, something that London & Kendrick clearly can’t do. “Rocker” hits to a pop from the crowd as a pissed off London & Kendrick walk down to the ring with their titles on their shoulders. Morrison & Miz stand up, and The Miz says that this is a surprise with Morrison joining in and saying that he thought they would still be arguing after they lost yet again, then asks them if they’re getting used to being on the wrong end of defeat. The champs stand there looking like they’re going to explode as The Miz then sarcastically asks Kendrick how his chin is, and then asks London if he enjoyed it, then tells him to do it again for old time sake.

Morrison & Miz turn and laugh at each other until the champs strike back with actions, throwing right hands at the cocky duo. Kendrick takes Morrison down with a dropsault, and London hits a super kick on The Miz. They will their rivals up, but they’re soon interrupted by Eric Bischoff’s Executive Assistant, William Regal. He tells them to break it up right away, and Londrick do back down as they turn and look at Regal standing on the stage. He says that he is all too familiar with Morrison & Miz’s antics, but he says it’s no excuse for what London & Kendrick just did. He then says that to resolve matters, he and Eric Bischoff have decided that serious action needs to be taken, and that is what they have done. He announces that the two teams will have a chance to get their hands on each other with no interruption in just under three weeks times at Backlash with the World Tag Team titles on the line. Morrison & Miz sit back up and stare intensely at the equally serious champions as “Promenade” hits and Regal walks to the back.


***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Leticia Cline is standing by and she says that as well as being her first night on Raw, she would like to welcome her guest at this time, another Smackdown draftee, Kenny Dykstra. Leticia asks him how he’s feeling about being back on Raw, and Kenny says that he had quite a good thing going on Smackdown until he lost the Cruiserweight Championship at Wrestlemania. He quickly points out though that he is in the same boat as Randy Orton, because he too didn’t lose his title, someone else did. He then says that it isn’t a big deal anyway, and even calls it a blessing as he says that he became a bigger name than the Cruiserweight Championship. He then says that he’s more than just a cruiserweight, he’s a future Hall of Famer, and he’s back where he was just before he got drafted to Smackdown as being the hottest young star on Raw. He says that he worked hard on Smackdown, and he’s better for it now that the fortune has changed for the better, he’s back where he belongs, the number one show where all the big boys play.

Just then, John Cena walks in to the shot with Leticia looking a little star struck, saying “Oh my god, it’s John Cena.” Cena says she’s right and he takes her hand, then kisses it before welcoming her to Raw. He then looks at Kenny and says he’s the loud mouth from last week, then asks him how he’s doing. Dykstra looks at Cena with distain and tells him he’s looking at the hottest young prospect in the history of Raw, even more so than when Cena debuted. Cena can’t contain himself and chuckles, turning to Leticia and asking her if Kenny’s serious, to which she says she thinks he is. Cena takes another look and Kenny and chuckles again before saying to Leticia that maybe they could hook up after he becomes the WWE Champion one more time. She says she’d love that and wishes him luck with Cena then saying he’ll catch up with her later. She looks at him with puppy dog eyes as Kenny stares at him with utter hatred.


***VIDEO PROMO***




[Commercial Break]


***THE MAIN EVENT***

WWE Championship

John Cena
vs Kane (c) w/Paul Bearer

ENDING: Cena & Kane both stand back up looking groggy with The Big Red Machine throwing the first blow, but Cena blocks it. He unloads on Kane, nailing him with a hard right hand, and then another, putting Kane on the back foot. Cena then whips Kane in to the ropes, turns round and runs the ropes himself, coming back and taking Kane down with a FLYING SHOULDER BLOCK. . . . . Cheers come from all areas of the arena as Cena stands back up, urging the champion to get back up, which he does, but Cena runs behind Kane, back off the ropes and sends him crashing back down with THE THROWBACK. . . . . Cena stands back up and gets ready for THE FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE. . . . . He turns back in to the ropes, but as he comes back, Kane sits up and grabs him around the throat. Cena struggles as Kane stands back up with the grip still in place, but Cena fights it with a kick to the groin, escaping the monster’s clutches. Cena then shifts behind him and lifts him up and to the side before sending him back down to the mat with a SPIN OUT POWERBOMB. . . . . The challenger holds on desperately for a cover . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . The champion kicks out with force, pushing Cena back.

Both men make their way back up to a vertical base, but it’s Cena up first as he runs behind Kane again, but as the monster turns round, he drives his huge boot right down Cena’s throat. Cena just falls in a heap, but Kane doesn’t let him off at all as he reaches down and grabs Cena across the throat with a two handed choke grip. He then drags him up to his feet, and then in to the air, choking Cena, but the challenger fights it and holds on, digging deep to pull himself free. As he lands on the mat, he runs back in to the ropes, but as he comes back, Kane grabs him around the waist and plants him with a SIDEWALK SLAM. . . . .The champion decides to go for a cover, hooking the leg with the ref counting Cena’s shoulders . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Cena kicks out. Kane stands back up and signals for the end, dragging his arm across his throat, then reaches down and drags Cena back up to scoop him over his shoulder, but Cena frees himself again, slipping down his back. Kane turns round in to Cena who drop toe holds him down to the mat and locks in the STFU. . . . . The crowd goes nuts as Cena pulls away at Kane’s mask, giving it everything to force the champion to call it a day, but he hangs on in there with Paul Bearer encouraging him on the outside.

Kane starts to pull himself towards the ropes with Cena panicking slightly as he seems powerless with Kane getting closer and closer. Cena shocks everyone by standing up and dragging Kane back, applying the hold once again to the delight of the majority of the crowd. Bearer does his best to get Kane back in it, and it’s not long before the champion fights back, dragging himself across the mat again, reaching out and grabbing the bottom rope. The fans boo as Cena is forced to the hold go, reluctantly. He stands back up and retreats to the middle of the ring as Kane slowly uses the ropes to help himself back up, but Kenny Dykstra starts making his way down the ramp, catching the attention of a confused Cena, who turns round and walks over to the ropes with Kenny talking smack at him. With Cena standing at the ropes and Dykstra just feet away, Kane stands back up and walks up behind Cena, turns him round and grabs him around the throat, turns him round and CHOKESLAMS HIM DOWN TO THE MAT. . . . . The fans boo as Kenny smiles with Kane then bending down and dragging Cena back up. He scoops him up on to his shoulder and SENDS HIM DOWN HEAD FIRST TO THE MAT WITH A TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER. . . . . The Big Red Machine crosses Cena’s arms with the referee counting the fall . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, and still the WWE Champion, Kane @ 12.48.

AFTERMATH: Dykstra laughs and turns back up the ramp as “Burned” hits with Kane standing back up and setting his pyro off. Bearer gets in the ring to pass Kane his title belt, but as he walks in, Randy Orton jumps the barricade and slips in to the ring. Bearer sees him and tells Kane to turn round, but it’s too late as he turns in to an RKO from The Legend Killer. Orton stares down at Kane for a couple of seconds before leaving the ring and turning round to face an angry Bearer, but Kane quickly sits up. Orton stares intensely at Kane as he stands up with Bearer holding Kane back.


[END OF SHOW]


QUICK RESULTS

Finlay df. Santino Marella
Natalya df. Candice Michelle
Ted DiBiase Jr df. Eugene
Cody Rhodes df. Hardcore Holly
Kane df. John Cena

HEAT RESULTS
Melina df. Amber O’Neill
Val Venis df. Nic Nemeth
Jimmy Wang Yang df. Trevor Murdoch

DARK MATCH
The Colon Brothers df. TJ Wilson & Teddy Hart



CONFIRMED FOR BACKLASH



Theme Song

“All Summer Long” by Kid Rock

WWE Championship
Kane (c) vs Randy Orton

World Tag Team Championship
Paul London & Brian Kendrick (c) vs John Morrison & The Miz

Non Sanctioned Match
Evolution vs The McMahon Men



 
#913 ·

HOMEPAGE

Last night on Raw we discovered that William Regal would be taking up Eric Bischoff’s offer to become his Executive Assistant. He had a busy first night on the job too, announcing the WWE Championship match between Kane and John Cena, which saw Kane retain with Kenny Dykstra distracting the challenger. It is now confirmed that Kane will definitely be defending the title at Backlash against the former champion, Randy Orton.



Bischoff’s new sidekick also announced on behalf of both of them that Paul London & Brian Kendrick will be defending the World Tag Team titles at Backlash against John Morrison & The Miz after a heated confrontation between both teams last night. The challengers laid in to London & Kendrick, saying that they weren’t worthy champions after losing to Smackdown’s UK Pack last Monday night. We’ll find out at Backlash if the champs are worthy enough to hold the gold.



Thanks to last week’s draft, Evolution’s reformation took centre stage at the start of the night, but it didn’t go down too well with The McMahon’s, who made it clear they had unfinished business with them. Mr. McMahon’s illegitimate son, JBL launched a horrific verbal assault on Triple H and his wife, Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley’s unborn child. It wasn’t a surprise that all hell broke loose as security had to pull JBL to safety, but that won’t be the case when Backlash comes around. It was said that the six men will meet in a Wrestlemania rematch in a non sanctioned match which promises to be extremely explosive.



With these three matches set for just under three weeks time, it is sure to be one explosive night when the superstars of Raw head to The Pepsi Center in Denver.


 
#916 ·
Heyman Deciple’s Raw Review

Evolution-JBL, Vince, & Shane: This was a good opening segment; the line about Stephanie’s baby was just awesome. You could really feel the tension. Well done.

Bischoff-Evolution-Regal: Evolution kicked out of the building, boo. Raw in Japan next week should be awesome as I was a huge fan of Raw’s episode in Japan from February 2005. Plus Regal’s in charge, I’m looking forward to next week.

Finlay Vs. Santino: Solid match and it was a good win for Finlay.

Bischoff & Regal-Cody-Kofi: I enjoyed the character development here for Cody with him being jealous of Kofi Kingston and then Cody going all Mike Knox 2006 on Kofi by grabbing Kelly and dragging her away. Good stuff.

Candice Vs. Natalya: Solid Divas match, glad to see Natalya got the win and having Victoria at the announce position was good too. Plus Regal’s announcement that took place after the match and sets up a huge main event for later was very good.

DiBiase Vs. Eugene: Fun little match, anytime Eugene borrows from the Hulkster it’s a good time. Plus DiBiase’s promos before and after the match were solid.

Colons & Perez-Cryme Tyme: Good interaction between the two sides here and as an added bonus Carlito got bitch smacked. I approve.

Orton Interview: Nice interview here with Randy Orton, he was his usual cocky self and I loved that one day Kane Title Reign reference from June 98.

Cody Vs. Holly: Solid match, good win for Cody. What happened after the match was great with Kofi coming out hugging Kelly and Cody then knocking Kofi right on his ass. That was glorious. Something tells me I’m really going to like Heel Cody.

Morrison & Miz-London & Kendrick: Fun segment, Miz and Morrison were great here. I enjoyed Paul London being called dead wood. Any way good interaction, nice little brawl and then out comes Regal to make the match for Back Lash.

Kenny Interview: Yay Letecia. Poor Kenny just got crapped on by Cena. Cena was very good here though.

Kane Vs. Cena: This is a huge main event. I didn’t really see Kenny getting involved. Good move, some interaction with Cena could be a good way to build him up. Kane gets the win with the tombstone and then out comes Randy Orton and hits Kane with the RKO.

Great show as usual Nige, I give it a 9 out of 10.
 
#917 ·
RAW REVIEW
BY SC2004

>>> The opening promo was longer than usual. We have six great talkers here and this feud has been carried on the back of great promos. This promo wasn’t as good as those cut by both sides on the road to WM, but it was still good. The problem I have with this feud is the actual PPV match up’s. I mean Vince is north of 60, Shane isn’t a professional wrestler, though he is talents and JBL is an aging veteran. Granted Flair isn’t the athlete e once was, but he could take Vince and Shane on his own. What I’m getting at here is this seems like a one sided affair with Evolution looking far to strong , The McMahon’s need another credible athlete to balance things out IMO.

>>> Evolution getting kicked out makes sense and I liked how you wrote it with Evolution accusing Eric of favouring the McMahon’s. I can’t see Evolution being gone for the entire night. Regal as Eric’s second in command works because we all know regal will plot to try and take Eric’s job, which should be a lot of fun.

>>> Finlay hasn’t won a match clean since …………… well actually I don’t remember. LOL. An okay opening match. Melina and Santino as a duo still hasn’t clicked with me. I’m a big fan of both of them. Melina is great on the stick so I hope you give her a shot at cutting a promo from time to time.

>>> I wonder what Regal and Bischoff are planning on announcing! That was a nice touch at the top of the promo, building suspense. I like the Cody, Punk, Kelly Kelly dynamic. Cody’s irrational behaviour has caught my attention.

>>> Nice straight forward divas match up here. Natalya won handily and looked very strong. When I saw this match I instantly though of the WWE and how they shove Candice down peoples throats, she so would of gone over here if this were for real even though she can’t wrestle.

>>> The Kane, Cena match up is huge and It left me wondering why you waited so long to announce it. A match of this magnitude should be announced before the show even goes on air and if not, at the top of the broadcast. Regal and Eric seem to be getting along swimmingly, I hope it doesn’t last long. LOL.

>>> I really dig what you’re doing with Dibaise. He and Maryse would look great together and they both play the same type of heel character. Dibaise being fed jobbers much to his annoyance is a cool little angle. Obviously Dibaise wins it. I expect him to be wearing a major strap within 6 months!

>>> Not a bad promo here by Orton. He as one would expect is unapologetic for his actions last week. Orton claiming that he doesn’t care if it’s Cena or Kane at Backlash shows up Orton cocky, self assured demander.

>>> Dibaise and Cody are both being featured prominently on RAW all of a sudden, which is great as they’re both super talented. The whole Kofi, Kelly Kelly and Cody dynamic is a strange one, but so far so good. It reminds me of the Sherrie Martel, HBK, Rick Martel angle of 1992 in a stupid kind of a way, I don’t know why that is. LOL

>>> It’s brave and admirable of you to feature a tag team feud so prominently on the show. I’d find it hard to imagine the WWE giving these four guys 10 minutes to cut a decent promo. Regal is all over the show tonight. His announcement wasn’t a shocker, but it makes it seem as if this match up and feud is a big deal.

>>> Pretty funny segment here involving Cena, Dykstra and Cline. Was it just me or did Cena suddenly turn into The Rock during this segment. LOL. That’s not a bad thing, it’s a good thing. Cena hitting on the interviewer I guess makes him seem cooler to teenage boys, something he desperately needs to happen.

>>> Well I kind of saw this coming. Dykstra costing Cena this huge match will no doubt lead to a 1 on 1 match up between these two men at Backlash. Kane’s victory was never in doubt, but I’m glad you kept Cena looking strong here. Kane sitting up after the RKO was very cool as it makes him appear super strong. Great match up.

OVERALL: Maybe it’s just me, but this show seemed shorter than usual. I’m surprised we didn’t see or hear from Evolution or the McMahon’s after the opening promo. I’m really pleased with how you’re using Rhodes, Dibaise, Miz & Morrison. Regal featured a little to prominently. If I had a suggestion it would to make him more comical and not so straight laced as he is becoming a bit of a bore. The show was good, not as good as last week, but still a very entertaining read.
 
#918 ·
Hey mate sorry for the very late review, but with this being one of the most busiest weeks of the year, I have not had the chance to write up your review, but I will do so now.

Nige’s Raw Review
Nice promo to start off the show with one of if not the biggest storyline in this thread, the McMahon against Evolution. I love the full time return of Evolution, and interesting to see that they are going up against the McMahons. The JBL line was not very nice but put this feud on an even more personal note, causing Jibbles to get bashed by Evolution. Non Sanctioned match at Backlash is great, can’t wait for the PPV and this match in particular.

As I said in my comments following the preview, I like Regal as both an authority figure and a wrestler, so I didn’t care which way he went. I’m mixed on Bischoff being sort of a face, but Regal taking over next week in Japan will be good.

Finlay over Marella was the obvious choice, but me being Italian and a Marella fan, I’m not very happy :p. Not really much to comment on in this match except for the obvious Hornswoggle interference, and I am not really a fan of the lovable Finlay, as you know that I like the more aggressive, brawling Irishman.

An obvious Cody heel turn in the works here when he eventually turns on Kofi over the Intercontinental Title, and this is all too familiar for me (*cough* London and Kendrick *cough*). Anyways, good to see that you have the next feud set for the Intercontinental Title, and I expect a match to be made at Backlash, Kofi to retain, then Cody turn on him after the match if he has not already done so.

Another relatively short match that had nothing worth mentioning about except that Natalya is being built up as a legitimate threat for the Women’s Championship held by Victoria. I expect to see this match at Backlash, is Backlash only Raw or Interbrand?

Awesome main event is set for tonight for the WWE Championship between Cena and Kane, which could easily headline a Pay Per View. With Kane and Orton both on the Backlash poster, obviously Kane will retain tonight. Cena has had his time in the sun TBH.

The Million Dollar Man moniker is perfect for Ted Dibiase Junior since his father perfected it, and Maryse by his side is awesome as well. Loving the blatant attack at the retardation of Eugene, and an obvious squash for Dibiase will follow. Well how about that! It looks like I can read minds -_-. Loving the Dibiase push and the Million Dollar Championship, hopefully you can have him accomplish bigger and better things.

Alright promo by the Colons and Eric Perez simply saying that they should be the Number One Contenders, before the appearance by Cryme Tyme. Are the Colons and Perez heels? Anyways, unless you plan on having these two teams feud down the line I really don’t see the purpose, and I didn’t really enjoy this promo as much as I did with the others.

Loving the sadistic Orton, who does anything to get his title back, and I think that he will make his presence felt in some shape or form during the main event or in the aftermath. I expect a Kennedy face turn and costing Orton the championship at Backlash, creating another main event feud.

The Cody and Hardcore Holly match was a match to simply further the feud between Cody and Kofi, and I love the aftermath where you always have Cody turning around at the wrong time. The match between Cody and Kofi is just a case of when it will happen, and as noted earlier, I expect it to be at Backlash.

Can’t wait for the Londrick and Miz and Morrison match for Backlash, it should be a great match. If you have Kendrick turn on London and rename him The Brian Kendrick I will kill you, and you say you steal my ideas - _-. Anyway, I am looking forward to this match, should be a great one.

A Kenny and Cena feud is imminent after this confrontation, Cena kissing Cline’s hand was a bit cheesy TBH. Glad to see that Kenny is being given a push in this thread, as he was so underused throughout his WWE career, especially with him being given a cheer leader gimmick. Hopefully mentioning Orton will have these two in a tag team, perhaps in a feud with a returning Kennedy and Cena. Please? I expect Dykstra to interfere in the main event against Cena.

As wrestlefreak said in his review earlier, glad to see that this match was given a bit more detail with it being the main event and a WWE Championship match. I liked how you made the ending that you still made Cena look strong without Kane losing any credibility, and also giving Dykstra a bit more overness. I think you should have had Randy hit the RKO and then escape to the entrance ramp before Kane got up, as it came across as that the RKO is a weak manoeuvre. Just my opinion though.

Anyway Nige, it was another top notch show on your behalf, although as others mentioned a bit shorter than usual. Still, this show had awesome quality and really hyped up the readers for Backlash, so kudos to you for that. Can’t wait for Smackdown and next week’s Raw, I will be viewing and hopefully reviewing. I’m loving the feuds that are currently going on, and Backlash is shaping up to be a hell of an event.
 
#919 ·
If you have Kendrick turn on London and rename him The Brian Kendrick I will kill you, and you say you steal my ideas - _-.
Let's nip this in the bud now shall we?!

I gave you a cheeky sarcastic response to your implication about The UK Pack/UKonnection and Hardy/Punk. I was only pointing out that i brought The UK Pack in a long time ago and that i turned Punk heel ages ago before you after your cheeky little comment at me for copying you. I never meant for it to be taken seriously, but if you actually do, i think you need to look at the time frame of the events in question.

If i do split London & Kendrick, it won't be copying you or anyone, it will be my own decision. And i'm sure that it wasn't your idea to call him The Brian Kendrick anyway!

Also, it's funny to see so many different responses to the Kofi/Cody angle. It's been compared to the Test/Steiner/Stacy, Martel/HBK/Sherri and Londrick angles. That was never my intention as it's more about the Intercontinental Championship and how it came about that pissed Cody off. Kelly Kelly's part in it will grow, but it's mainly not about her, it's about the IC Title.
 
#924 · (Edited)
WWE.com Homepage - Smackdown Results (11th April 2008)

Smackdown Results
11th April 2008

Blue Cross Arena
Rochester, New York City





***VIDEO RECAP***
FROM LAST WEEK

  • Shawn Michaels addressing the crowd at the top of the show having retained the World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania
  • Edge demanding a rematch against Michaels for the World Championship
  • Linda McMahon saying that as there is no General Manager, she will make the decision, announcing a number one contendership match between Edge & The Undertaker
  • The main event and The Undertaker chokeslamming Edge through an announce table and winning by count out as Michaels watches from a monitor in the back
***OPENING VIDEO***
“Rise Up”


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



Linda McMahon is stood in the ring to start the show. Her music finishes playing and she says that she needs to address the audience on the ending of last week’s show. She says that The Undertaker and Edge met to determine the number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship, and that due to Edge being counted out after The Undertaker chokeslammed him through the announce table, there were some questions raised as to the outcome. She then says that first, she must tell them that following the fall through the announce table, Edge has suffered a minor injury that will see him out of action for 6-8 weeks, which gets some cheers from the crowd. She then tells us that The Undertaker did win the match, and with that said, she announces that he will meet Shawn Michaels for the World Championship at Judgment Day, getting a huge pop, but they quickly turn to boos as “Masterpiece” hits with The Masters of the Mat, Charlie Haas & Chris Masters walking down to the ring in their casual clothes, taking Linda by surprise.

The duo look very serious as Masters walks over and collects a microphone before saying that he gathers there’s still no general manager, and then tells Linda that the last one they had suspended them for attacking two washed up ECW rejects several weeks ago. He then says that on their first night back last week after winning their match, they got attacked in the same way by the same two ECW thugs, yet they didn’t get punished. He then tells Linda that as one of the most senior members of the company, she must surely take the same action that Regal did by suspending Dreamer & Richards. The crowd boo and Linda tells them that she supported William Regal in his decision to suspend them a few weeks back, but doesn’t agree that what happened last week was anywhere near severe enough to warrant a suspension. The crowd like that, but Linda then says that to avoid things getting out of control tonight, she will tell them to leave the arena. Masters & Haas smile, but Linda then says that she’s not finished as next week, the two teams will meet in this very ring to determine the new number one contenders for the WWE Tag Team Championship.

Masters smirks and tells her that’s fine because not only will they get within touching distance of the tag titles, they will send Dreamer & Richards home for good. Haas laughs as Masters then drops the microphone and leaves the ring, along with Haas. Just as they walk through the curtain, Matt Hardy walks out to a huge pop with Masters’ music still playing. He looks very serious indeed as he slides in to the ring and picks up the microphone Masters left. Linda looks shocked to see Matt as he gets right to the point and tells Linda that after what happened last week with CM Punk costing him the United States Championship, he is demanding a match with Punk tonight. A big pop breaks out, but Linda says that she’s sure not sure if Punk is here. She then says that she saw what happened and that the moment Punk arrives, she fully intends to deal with it. Matt then says with real intention his voice, that if she doesn’t deal with it, he will. “Live for the Moment” blasts out as Matt drops the microphone and walks to the back with Linda looking slightly concerned.


***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Josh Matthews is standing by, and he announces his guest to us, the new United States Champion, Shelton Benjamin. Shelton walks in to the shot with the title proudly resting on his shoulder, along with Shannon Moore. Josh congratulates him on his victory last week, but then says that it did come about in controversial circumstances. Shelton says that it doesn’t matter how it came about, all the matters is he is the new United States Champion. He then says that regardless of what happened last week, the fact of the matter is he deserves to be the champion and that’s all that counts. Shannon laughs, and a serious Shelton turns to the side and asks him what he’s laughing at. Shannon looks surprised and says he was laughing at him, but Shelton stuns everyone by telling Moore he is worthless and he was supposed to help him win the title at Wrestlemania, but he didn’t. He then tells him that a monkey could have done it, but he couldn’t even do it last week either, then pushes Moore to the floor. Moore looks stunned as he sits up and then walks away with a surprised looking Matthews asking Shelton about his match with Chavo Guerrero later on. Shelton then says that tonight is the start of the future for Shelton Benjamin as he’s going to prove anyone who doubts him wrong, right from the very start, getting the ball rolling tonight.


[Commercial Break]


Matt Sydal walks in to his locker room in his casual clothes, holding his travel bag with Johnny Jeter standing up from the bench as Sydal puts his bag down. Sydal says hey but he’s not in particularly chirpy mood and takes his jacket off as Jeter then asks him if that’s all he’s got to say. Sydal turns round, still not looking cheerful as Jeter asks him just what was up with him last week in their tag match, telling him they had the chance to get up the tag team ladder before saying that their chance has now gone. Sydal doesn’t seem to be interested, but he is just low key and not angry as he apologises. Jeter doesn’t look happy at all and tells Sydal that he sure as hell should be sorry, they had their chance and they blew it, but corrects himself and tells Sydal he blew it. An irate Jeter looks Sydal right in the eyes and then shakes his head before storming out of the room with Sydal not seeming to care.


***VIDEO RECAP***
FROM LAST WEEK

The United States Championship match between Matt Hardy & Shelton Benjamin, ending with CM Punk racing down to the ring and costing Matt the title.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


***THE OPENING MATCH***

Non Title Match
Chavo Guerrero vs Shelton Benjamin

ENDING:
Both men stand back up to their feet with Shelton whipping Chavo in to the corner. Chavo’s back hits the pads hard as the United States Champion charges in at him for the STINGER SPLASH. . . . . Shelton leaps in to the air with Chavo stepping out of the corner to the delight of the crowd as Shelton’s chest connects with the pads. He turns round looking worse for wear as Chavo drags him out of the corner and pulls Shelton’s head under his arm, setting him up for a BRAIN BUSTER. . . . . Shelton reaches to the side and grabs hold of the top rope. A frustrated Chavo lets go of the hold, giving Shelton the chance to kick his opponent in the chest as he then pushes Chavo away, in to the centre of the ring.

He takes a second before running back at Chavo, but the Mexican reacts quickly, surprising Benjamin by connecting with a SPINNING HEAD SCISSORS TAKE DOWN. . . . . A pop breaks out as Chavo then stands up and walks in to the corner, then climbs to the top rope where he points to the skies, but Shelton races back up to his feet and in to the corner, jumping up in to the air and nailing Chavo with a STEP UP ENZIGURI. . . . . The echo of Shelton’s boot spreads across the arena as Chavo falls down to the mat. Shelton stands back up with a look of determination on his face as Chavo slowly stands back up and walks out of the corner, but Benjamin races at him and takes him down with THE PAY DIRT. . . . . The US Champion turns over and hooks both legs for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Shelton Benjamin by pinfall @ 6.47.

AFTERMATH: “Ain’t No Stoppin Me” hits to heat from the crowd as Shelton is passed his belt and raises it up in to the air, posing slightly excessively before walking to the back as Chavo sits up looking disappointed.


[Commercial Break]


***MATCH #2***

Matt Sydal vs Matt Striker

ENDING:
Just as the match got going, Johnny Jeter walked down to the ring, presumably to support his friend, Matt Sydal, despite their minor problems from last week. Striker just gets in control by grounding Sydal and is able to lock in a REVERSE FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK. . . . . Sydal tries to fight the hold with everything he’s got, frustrating Striker as he hangs on in there and starts to make his way across the mat to the ropes, reaching out and grabbing the bottom rope. It’s met with a big pop from the crowd, as well as a fist in to the air from Jeter on the outside. Striker doesn’t look happy as he stands up, and he takes exception to Jeter’s reaction by walking towards the ropes and giving him a piece of his mind. At the same time, Sydal uses the ropes to help himself back up, and as Striker turns round, he runs at Sydal, but the youngster raises his boot up in to Striker’s face, sending him back out in to the centre of the ring.

Sydal takes a couple of seconds to recover before running at Striker and hitting a FEINT ENZIGURI IN TO A HEAD SCISSORS TAKEDOWN. . . . . The fans cheer again, and Sydal stands back up next to Striker as he lies across the mat and jumps in to the air for a STANDING MOONSAULT. . . . . Striker though moves to the side with Sydal hitting the mat. It takes several seconds before both men get back up to their feet, and Striker reacts quickest, swinging a right hand, but Sydal blocks it and spins Striker on a 360 degree spin and grabs him around the chest before nailing him with THE CYCLORAMA (Overhead Moonsault Slam). . . . . Cheers ring out, but Sydal races back up to his feet and drags Striker by the corner. He then climbs up to the top rope and executes a PERFECT SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . He lands on Striker’s chest and holds on for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Matt Sydal by pinfall @ 5.02.

AFTERMATH: Jeter gets in the ring and raises Sydal’s arm, smiling widely as a confused Sydal then seems to shrug the confusion off in order to celebrate his win. He then walks in to the corner and climbs to the top rope, posing for the crowd as Jeter’s look turns to distain with Sydal’s back to him. Sydal steps down off the ropes and walks in to the opposite corner and past Jeter who puts on another fake smile before staring back with real menace as Sydal celebrates his victory.


***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Mickie James is getting her make up done backstage by the resident make up artist. Mickie’s asked what it’s like being on Smackdown, and she says that it’s weird because no one knows what’s going on. She then says that she did enjoy beating Beth Phoenix last week, and says it reminds her of the times she did it on Raw. We then hear a cough behind them causing them to turn round, with none other than The Glamazon stood there, not looking best pleased. She tells Mickie not to get too carried away with what happened last week as she wasn’t ready for the match, saying that she only got told minutes before. She then says that she’ll let Mickie off because there’s no chance of it happening again, but Mickie smiles and sarcastically asks Beth if she’s getting worried about her losing streak after losing the women’s title at Wrestlemania. Beth just smirks, not hiding her anger well before grabbing Mickie by the hair and pulling her out of the chair. Several officials are stood in the hallway and get to the scene quickly to pull them apart. Mickie yells out at Beth, calling her crazy as the officials have difficulty keeping hold of Beth.


***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Michael Shane walks out of his locker room with the Cruiserweight Championship on his shoulder as Shawn Michaels walks down the hall with his World Championship on his. A big pop comes from the arena as the HBK walks up to his cousin. Shane stops and doesn’t know what to say despite Shawn’s gesture last week. Michaels tells Shane not to look worried and says that he was impressed with how he stood up to Edge last week, telling him it takes guts to stand up to someone like Edge. He then tells Shane that it looks like he has that same fire in the belly he had when he trained him all those years ago, and then says that he’s proud of him for becoming a champion all by himself. Shawn offers Shane his hand, and the youngster shakes it. He then tells Shawn that he’s had to time to think and admits he came to the WWE under false pretences to try and get back at him for not getting him in to the company in the first place, but then says that he knows that was wrong. He then tells the World Champion all that matters is that he’s here now and says it wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for Shawn helping a long time ago, before saying that now they’re stood together, both as champions and it doesn’t get much better than that. Michaels smiles and tells him he was always a good kid, but then he stops and thinks for a second. He then smiles even wider and looks at Shane before asking him how he feels about the two of them joining forces and teaming up for the first time. It brings a pop from the crowd inside the arena with Shane loving the idea as he tells Shawn it would be great. Michaels tells him he’ll go see the boss and catch up with him later. Shane says okay with a big smile on his face as Michaels walks off down the hall.


[Commercial Break]


Linda McMahon
is sat down in her office talking to Tazz on her leather sofa as the former Smackdown commentator has his crutches resting alongside him. Linda asks him how the leg is coming along, and he says that he’s doing good and that he won’t need the crutches for much longer. He then says that he hopes to be back on Smackdown permanently in the very near future, and then teases her by saying that since there’s no GM, he could push the crutches to one side and step in to the job. Linda looks caught off guard before asking him if he’s serious just as Shawn Michaels walks through the door. Linda stands up to greet Shawn with HBK also shaking Tazz’s hand as he remains seated. Linda asks Shawn what brings him here, and asks if it’s about The Undertaker. Shawn says that he’s going to be ready for the dead man at Judgment Day, but he wants to talk about tonight and says that he wants to ask a favour, if it would be possible for him and Michael Shane to team up tonight. Linda seems to like the idea, saying they’re family and are both champions here on Smackdown before agreeing to it. Shawn thanks her as Tazz picks up his crutches to stand up and says he has an even better idea. Both Shawn & Linda asks what it is, and Tazz says that he couldn’t think of better opponents for them than the same two guys that injured his ankle, Charlie Haas & Chris Masters. Linda nods along in approval and tells Shawn it’s all arranged, then offers him the best of luck as he walks out of the room. Tazz says he hopes they shut Masters up, but Linda then asks Tazz is he has time for a chat, which he says he does. They sit down again as the camera fades out.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


Orlando Jordan
makes his entrance, followed by Elijah Burke to a pop from the crowd as he is accompanied by Layla. However, just before the referee calls for the bell, “I’m Comin” hits with Mr. Money in the Bank, MVP walking down to the ring with his briefcase as he joins Michael Cole & The Coach at the announce table, staring intensely at Burke, who has every right to look concerned. Cole asks MVP what brings him down here, and then says that this might answer his own question.


***VIDEO RECAP***
FROM LAST WEEK

Mr. Money in the Bank, MVP bragging in the ring about his victory at Wrestlemania, only for Elijah Burke to storm down to the ring and give MVP a piece of his mind before nailing him with a hard right hand.


***CUT BACK TO RINGSIDE***



MVP remains quiet and doesn’t say a word at the announce table, ignoring Cole’s questions and looking extremely intense as the match starts.


***MATCH #3***

Elijah Burke w/Layla vs Orlando Jordan

ENDING:
Jordan hammers away at Burke in the corner with some vicious right hands, but the referee steps in between them. Jordan isn’t happy as he is forced to back away, which he does reluctantly, but just as the ref steps back out of the corner, OJ steps right back in himself and goes for another right hand. Burke steps out though and lifts Jordan up and down on to his knee for an inverted atomic drop. Jordan looks in some pain as he hobbles around on the mat, and Burke doesn’t waste any time in grabbing him by the wrist and whipping him in to the ropes. As Jordan comes back, Burke lifts him up in the air by the waist and absolutely plants him with a LIFTING SPINNING SIT DOWN SPINEBUSTER. . . . . Jordan’s back is driven to the mat with one hell of an impact with Burke holding on for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . NO!. . . . .

Somehow Jordan gets his shoulder up at the very last second. Burke doesn’t mess about as he stands right back up and reaches down to pull his opponent back up to his feet. He grabs him by the arm and whips him hard in to the corner with Jordan’s chest hitting the pads, and that’s where he stays as Burke retreats to the opposite corner to pull his knee pads down with a still silent and intense looking MVP watching on. Burke doesn’t get side tracked as he races off in to the corner and drives his knees in to Jordan’s back for THE ELIJAH EXPRESS. . . . . A pop breaks out from the crowd as Jordan falls back, but Burke grabs him straight away and pulls him out of the corner before nailing him with THE ELIJAH EXPERIENCE. . . . . Layla raises her arms in the air on the outside as Burke hooks the leg for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Elijah Burke by pinfall @ 6.19.

AFTERMATH: “Don’t Waste My Time” hits as Burke stands up and gets his arm raised. He immediately walks over to the ropes and looks right at it MVP, making the point he’s not backing away from him. The holder of the Money in the Bank contract stands up and stares right back, even more intensely as Layla gets in the ring and puts her arm round and Burke, who points at MVP before turning back and leaving ringside.


***VIDEO PROMO***

We see Josh Hayger working out in a gym and a wrestling ring, cutting to a still image at the end.

VOICEOVER: To those who have stood in his path, they bare no comparison. . . No man has challenged him whatsoever. . . He is unstoppable. . . He is undefeated. . . He is Josh Hayger, and he’s coming to Friday Night Smackdown.





***CUT BACKSTAGE***


The Masters of the Mat are stood in the hallway, looking pretty pissed as Masters says that he can’t believe Linda McMahon let Tazz butt in and make them compete tonight. Haas then asks Masters what he thinks Linda was talking to him about, but Masters says he doesn’t care now that the two damn ECW idiots aren’t in the building when The UK Pack, Paul Burchill & Harry Smith, the WWE Tag Team Champions walk down the hall and cross paths with them. Masters & Haas don’t look happy to see them and Burchill asks them if they’re complaining again by any chance. Masters, not best pleased, asks him what he said, and Smith says that maybe for once, they should quit whining and do their talking in the ring for a change. Masters smirks and says that’s not going to be a problem because not only are they going to win tonight, they’re going to do the same next week to get a shot at their titles. Masters looks satisfied with himself, and then Haas steps in, telling them once that happens, they better starting look over their shoulders because they’re coming for their titles. Burchill grins and wishes them luck and he’s sorry to disappoint them because the titles aren’t going anywhere soon. Masters says they’ll see about that before he and Haas then walk off in to the sunset. Burchill turns to Harry and asks him if he can believe those guys. Smith is about to respond as an angry Matt Hardy paces through the back and up to them. He asks them if CM Punk has arrived yet, but they say they haven’t seen him. Matt says he’s got no choice, he’s going to have to do it the old fashioned way and carries on walking up the hall with The UK Pack saying it looks like there’s going to be trouble.


[Commercial Break]


“Live for the Moment”
blasts out to a huge pop as a furious Matt Hardy walks down to the ring, instantly demanding a microphone and walking back to the centre of the ring. He says everyone knows why he’s out here, for one reason and one reason only, and that’s CM Punk. He says everyone knows what kind of person Punk is after what he’s put his brother through over the last few months, but last week Punk stuck his nose in his business and cost him the United States title and what he wants is for Punk to get his ass out here right now. The crowd goes nuts as Matt stands still waiting for him, but with no response for several seconds as Matt stares at the stage, waiting desperately for Punk to come down. Matt loses it and says that Punk’s making matters worse by getting him angrier, but all of a sudden we hear Punk’s voice. Matt looks around, as does the camera to spot CM Punk walking in to the crowd from the concession stands.

He has two members of security alongside with one at either side of him, and tells Matt to give it a rest and says that the voice of the truth has arrived. He says that Matt must have a short memory because it seems he’s forgot just who cost who the Intercontinental Championship over a week ago, then asks Matt if that actually slipped his mind or if he is that stupid. Matt walks to the ropes and says that he was just giving Punk what he had coming to him for everything he put Jeff through, but Punk cuts in and tells Matt that he’s a hypocrite, then tells the fans the same and that Matt seems to forget that he did the exact same thing to him, and what he did last Friday was just retribution in its simplest form. The crowd get on Punk’s back and they start booing with some fans close by yelling insults at him as the security officers try and keep them away.

Punk carries on and says that he should have known better as it seems that the fans here on Smackdown are just as naïve as those on Raw as they support Matt’s hypocrisy just like they supported Jeff for his previous addictions and abuse. Matt shouts out at Punk not to bring Jeff in to it, but Punk says there’s a real similarity between the brothers, saying Matt’s a hot head while Jeff is a pot head. Matt climbs through the ropes and jumps to the floor below, walking over to the barricade, but the security officers on the floor don’t let him climb over. Punk grins and says to Matt that Jeff is nothing better than an addict, then asks him if he asks him if he truly supports Jeff for all his wrong doings or if it’s just blind loyalty. Matt tries to wriggle free from the security workers, but they hold on tight as Punk then says that Matt is powerless, just like Jeff as he lies at home resting his head and feeding his habit, but Linda McMahon then walks out to the stage and tells Punk to be quiet.

Punk seems angered by Linda’s presence and says that she understands why Matt is angry, but says this is why she was going to deal with it. She then says that both of them are in the wrong for this, but tells Punk that he is a disgrace to the delight of the fans, but he cuts Linda off and says that she is a disgrace for employing someone of Jeff’s reputation. Linda gets angry and says that she’s heard enough of him for one night and says she doesn’t need to justify an employee’s position, but says that if there was a problem with Jeff, he wouldn’t be an employee. Punk then says maybe she should check that since Jeff’s at home doing god knows what since he put him on the shelf at Wrestlemania. Linda says once again that Jeff isn’t a problem, but he (Punk) is quickly becoming one, and then says she is going to give him a problem tonight. Punk stays quiet as both he and Matt listen as Linda says that later on tonight, CM Punk will be in action against the man who will be competing for the World Heavyweight Championship at Judgment Day, The Undertaker. A massive pop breaks out as Punk looks absolutely stunned while security let go of a satisfied looking Matt Hardy. The camera zooms in on a pissed CM Punk as we go to commercial.


[Commercial Break]


***VIDEO PROMO***
“Break The Walls Down”




***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


***MATCH #4***

Shawn Michaels & Michael Shane vs The Masters of the Mat (Charlie Haas & Chris Masters)

ENDING:
Haas pulls a groggy looking Shane back up to his feet and whips the Cruiserweight Champion in to the ropes, but as Shane comes back, he shocks Haas as he slides through his legs. Shane hurries back up, and Haas turns round with Shane looking to connect with a right hand, but Haas ducks it, then grabs him around the waist and plants him with a BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . Haas holds on for dear life as the ref counts Shane’s shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . The resilient youngster gets a shoulder up, leaving Haas shocked and frustrated. The angry mat technician stands back up and pulls his straps down and stomps his feet, urging Shane back up, and slowly he makes his way back up to his feet. Haas grabs him straight away and lifts him up for THE OLYMPIC SLAM. . . . . But as soon as he gets him up, Shane drops down and lands on his feet, then pulls a stunned Haas in to his body and grabs his leg, taking him down with a LEG HOOK DDT. . . . .

A big pop comes from the crowd as Shane goes for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . NO!. . . . . Masters breaks it up, racing in to the ring and stomping Shane on the back of the head. Michaels goes to get in the ring, but the ref warns Masters and gets him out quickly. With Michaels and the crowd encouraging Shane, he crawls across the mat towards his partner, as does Haas, and both make the tag with Michaels and Masters racing in to the ring. HBK charges at Masters and takes him down with clothesline, and then another with Masters getting up right away. HBK then grabs him by the wrist and whips him in to the corner, then follows in for a hard clothesline to the upper chest. He backs away from the corner as Masters staggers out, then hits The Masterpiece with an inverted atomic drop. The World Champion doesn’t waste any time in turning back to run in to the ropes and come back to nail Masters with a FLYING FOREARM. . . . .

The crowd go wild as HBK then flips up and walks in to the corner and climbs up to the top rope. Haas panics on the apron and climbs through the ropes and runs towards Michaels, but HBK thinks fast and jumps down, nailing Haas with a DOUBLE AXE HANDLE. . . . . Shane picks himself back up on the apron as the referee checks on Haas with Masters also standing back up slowly. Michaels looks at Shane and tells him to come in the ring as they stand in adjacent corners, then nods at him with Shane smiling, seeming to know what his cousin means. As Masters stands back up, they both explode out of their corners and nail him with a SYNCHRONISED SUPER KICK. . . . . Masters just falls back to the mat with Shane retreating to his corner as Michaels drops to his knees to make the cover with the ref turning round to count the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Shawn Michaels & Michael Shane by pinfall @ 7.50.

AFTERMATH: “Sexy Boy” blasts out to a big pop as Haas comes round on the outside to see Michaels & Shane hugging in the middle of the ring with HBK then raising his cousin’s arm in the air. They continue to pose for the crowd as Haas then reaches inside and pulls Masters out of the ring and helps him to the back with the crowd eating up Michaels & Shane.


[Commercial Break]


***THE MAIN EVENT***

The Undertaker vs CM Punk

ENDING:
Punk makes his way back up to his feet with Taker lying in wait, ready to pounce, but he gets ahead of himself and bends down to help Punk up. He then swings a right hand at him, but Punk blocks it and unloads on him with a series of hard martial arts kick to the chest. It results in Taker dropping to his knees and clutching his chest with Punk backing up in to the ropes and running back at the dead man, nailing him with a SHINING WIZARD. . . . . The arrogant addition to Smackdown’s roster rushes to cover Taker as he urges the referee to make the count, which he does. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Punk sits back up looking frustrated, but not shocked at all.

He then makes his way back up to a vertical base and drags Taker towards the corner, then shifts back in to the corner and goes for a SPLIT LEG MOONSAULT OFF THE ROPES. . . . . BUT NO, TAKER GETS HIS KNEES UP, DRIVING THEM IN TO PUNK’S CHEST. . . . . The crowd sure enjoyed that as Punk hits the deck, clutching his chest as the phenom takes his time in standing back up. He then reaches down and pulls The Straight Edge Superstar back up to his feet and scoops him up on to his shoulder and then lets go, dropping Punk’s head on to the turnbuckle pads for THE SNAKE EYES. . . . . Punk’s head bounces back off the pads as Taker turns back and runs the ropes, comes back at Punk, but he shocks Taker by exploding with a SPINNING WHEEL KICK. . . . . Gasps come from the crowd as no one saw that coming.

Both men stay down for several seconds, and it’s Punk who gets up first, but the groggy superstar leans back in to the ropes and turns his head back. He then pulls himself under the bottom rope and walks by the announce table up to Justin Roberts. He reaches past him and grabs a steel chair as Taker gets up in the ring. Punk then turns back with the crowd booing as he slides back in the ring with Taker’s back to him. Punk raises the chair up, ready to swing it, and as the dead man turns, he ducks the shot and grabs Punk around the throat for a CHOKESLAM. . . . . The fans cheer, but Punk still has the chair in his possession and is able to drive it in to Taker’s stomach, forcing the grip to be released with Punk then driving the chair in to the dead man’s skull, causing the referee to disqualify Punk.


WINNER: The Undertaker by DQ @ 8.37.

AFTERMATH: Punk gets booed as Taker remains on the mat, but Matt Hardy charges down the aisle, letting his anger get the better of him as he slides in to the ring, but runs right in to a vicious chair shot from Punk. More boos ring out as Punk looks down with a sick smile on his face, but he then sees Shawn Michaels walking out to the stage. With Punk’s eyes now on HBK, he sees Michaels stop dead, thinking he’s scared him off walking down to the ring, but it’s because The Undertaker is back up right behind him. Michaels grins and gestures at Punk to turn round, which he slowly does to see the dead man standing there. Taker grabs him around the throat and chokeslams him down to the mat with the chair falling out of his hand too. Taker turns to see HBK at the top of the stage and they stare at each other with a look of mutual respect as Smackdown comes to a close with “Deadman’s Symphony” playing.


[END OF SHOW]


QUICK RESULTS

Shelton Benjamin df. Chavo Guerrero
Matt Sydal df. Matt Striker
Elijah Burke df. Orlando Jordan
Shawn Michaels & Michael Shane df. The Masters of the Mat
The Undertaker df. CM Punk


DARK MATCH
Ron Killings df. Nic Nemeth


CONFIRMED FOR NEXT WEEK IN JAPAN

Number One Contendership Match for the WWE Tag Team Championship
The ECW Originals (Tommy Dreamer & Stevie Richards) vs The Masters of the Mat (Charlie Haas & Chris Masters)


CONFIRMED FOR JUDGMENT DAY



Theme Song
“Take It All” by Zididada

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Shawn Michaels (c) vs The Undertaker


 
#927 · (Edited)


MICHAELS TO FACE HIS JUDGMENT DAY?


It was confirmed last night on Friday Night Smackdown by Linda McMahon that The Undertaker will receive his shot at Shawn Michaels’ World Heavyweight Championship in six weeks time at Judgment Day.

The dead man defeated Edge just over a week ago to become the number one contender, and we now know that the huge championship match between two true greats will take place on Smackdown’s next brand exclusive pay-per-view, live from the Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. It sure promises to be one hell of a night.


CENA TO STAR IN NEW WWE FILM & LATEST BACKSTAGE NEWS!


The WWE have released confirmation of the next WWE Film, and it will star the lead role from The Marine, John Cena.

Cena will start filming in around six weeks, and it is believed that he will be absent from Raw for the entirety of the production as it will be filmed in Europe. It is thought that the aim of the film is to increase the popularity of the WWE and Cena outside of the States, and that Cena is the right man to be at the forefront of it. Full details of his role are yet to be released, but the film is thought to be aimed at a younger audience with a “PG” rating.

It is believed that Cena will wrap up his WWE schedule after Backlash, where it is all but confirmed he will take on Kenny Dykstra. It looks possible that Cena’s time off could play a part in the storyline to give Dykstra an extra push up the ladder. Creative are very high on the youngster, and plans are in place for him to be involved in a major role going in to Summerslam, the expected time of Cena’s return.

The Big Show is expected to make his much anticipated return to the company after re-signing over six months ago. The powers that be have waited for the right time to bring him in with the storyline being set up to increase the impact of his return. It has also given him the chance to get himself in a far better condition for his return to television.

News of Christian Cage’s decision to extend his TNA deal or jump ship back to the WWE have gone quiet as of late. It appears that Cage is keeping his thoughts under wraps for now. It might just be that he has already reached a decision and signed with the WWE, but they are keeping it hush hush for a shocking return. If it is the case that he does return, you can assume that Tomko will be alongside him.

Rumours of Mr. Kennedy returning to cost Randy Orton the WWE Championship at Backlash after being punted in the head after Wrestlemania are way off the mark. Kennedy suffered a minor injury during the Money in the Bank Ladder match the night before, and it was seen as the perfect way to allow him time off as well as setting up Orton’s aggressive streak in his attempt to regain the WWE Championship.

On other injury news, niggling injuries to Jeff Hardy, Bobby Lashley & Rey Mysterio will keep them out of action until after Backlash. Smackdown has also been hit by several injuries to big names. Chris Jericho’s knee problem is slightly more serious than first thought, but Umaga’s shoulder injury isn’t as severe as it was when it was originally diagnosed.

Edge has been taken off screen for a while to let some niggling injuries heel, but is thought that some of them could work through the pain. Creative though have asked for the chance to develop younger stars like Kofi Kingston, Cody Rhodes, Kenny Dykstra, Matt Sydal, Johnny Jeter, Michael Shane, Elijah Burke, Ted DiBiase Jr, John Morrison & The Miz. It looks as if the “injuries” could well be convenient as these younger stars get some time to prove themselves.

Many have been impressed with the debut of Ted DiBiase Jr in particular since his debut a couple of weeks ago. He is seen as one who could well be a big name very soon if he carries on in the way he is going. It is also said that he carries himself very well backstage too, giving himself an even greater chance of rising up the Raw ladder.

With Jamie Noble injuring his neck at Wrestlemania, Kid Kash will step in to a singles role for the time being, allowing The Masters of the Mat to move in to a prominent role on Smackdown. Creative have been impressed with the how Chris Masters & Charlie Haas have handled their opportunity, and it is believed that they will feature heavily on Smackdown in the next few months.

A lot of names are impressing in FCW, pushing themselves towards a call up to the main roster. The Empire (Stu Sanders, Drew McIntyre & Katie Lea) are at the top of that list as they are making a big impression in Florida. With Nigel Smith, the Head of Creative hailing from the UK and the same home town as Sanders, there is added belief that they will be called up and given a serious push.



Happy New Year to everyone, even those outside the UK!​

 
#928 ·
D-K-L's Smackdown Review

Linda in the ring to start the show isn't the best way to kick off the show, but I guess some things had to be addressed. I thought for a minute there she was going to reverse the decision or put Edge in the JD match because of the table spot last week, but Edge out is a surprise. Edge is a top heel but you must have your reasons and with all these injuries it allows the youngsters to shine. Having Masters and Haas come out makes them look quite important with it being the opening segment and all, and the match next week should be pretty good. Hardy coming down was interesting, coming down like that really showed his intensity and it allowed you to cover a number of feuds in one promo. Decent promo.

Very good interview with Shelton, it's good to see him get some mic time after his title win last week. I liked what he had to say but him pushing down Moore was a little surprising, I think this alliance should last a little longer tbh as they haven't been togther that long and Moore makes a good little sidekick, but I guess you think it isn't working out.

Another interesting segment with Jeter and Sydal. These promos are doing a lot for their characters and it's good they are getting this attention. I don't know what is going to happen with this storyline, but I think they'll come out of it looking good.

Good win for Shelton, he needed a good win after just winning the title. He looked impressive here and his title reign should be a good one. I wonder if Shannon Moore will come back to Shelton's first challenger.

Impressive win for Sydal as well, I wasn't sure which way this was going to go with him being quite subdued at the moment. The Cyclorama and SSP are always good to see. The aftermath was great with Jeter facial expressions, i'm looking forward to seeing this storyline develop further.

This was a good little segment with Mickie and Beth. This isn't over yet by the looks of it. Mickie's comment about Beth being on a little losing streak was good, I remember when I had Phoenix on a long losing streak in my old WWE thread, it didn't come off very well! I liked how it was split up too. Phoenix will most probably come out on top next time.

Another interesting segment here. This was a nice set up for the match later and it had a good feeling about it with them being family, and the idea of them teaming is cool. Teaming with HBK will do a lot for Shane, but i'm just wondering if he really has changed.

Three segments in a row is a little unusual for you. I liked this segment, and it looks like a new GM will be announced soon which is good. Tazz is cool and makes me laugh, not sure about him being GM though, I think i'd like it. I'm not sure if he will though, seems a little too obvious for you now, would've thought you'd announce a new GM without hinting before. Good to see the match is official too, seeing their opponents, I wouldn't be surprised if Shane turns back heel.

Good win for Elijah Burke, I'm glad he's getting a push, but i'm still not sure about his face turn though, I love the cocky Burke. Good to see his two awesome finishers too. This feud looks like it will be very good.

This was another pretty good segment, i kinda makes it obvious that it will be them who wins next week though. This was a very well written segment though and I liked the UK Pack talking about how much they complain. Hardy appearing again was cool to remind us he's after Punk.

This was a really great promo. Punk was great on the mic, I loved what how he kept winding up Hardy, and he sounded like Jericho for a while there going on about hypocricy. Punk's line about the Hardy's being similar was awesome, and I can just imagine that coming off really well. I liked how you had security stop Hardy from getting to Punk, really showed hus anger but allowed Punk to go on. Linda coming out I think was a pretty good decision as we didn't need to see a brawl between them and it couldn't really end another way without someone coming out. The match announcement is huge, can understand why it was left so long though as Punk's shock would be good to see.

Good match here with Shane and HBK picking up the win. Thought Shane might turn on him, but we don't need that feud with the HBK/Taker coming up, and that deserves a huge build. This does wonders for Shane as well. I hope the focus will be all on that though as we get closer to JD. Masters and Haas losing doesn't effect them too much considering who they lost to, and they will regain some credibility next week when they win the title shot i'm sure.

The main event is a match I would love to see, and I think ending it with a DQ was the right thing to do as neither can really afford another loss, and we don't need to see Hardy costing him again. The aftermath was good too, the chair shot will only make Hardy angrier and Punk won't be too happy either after he chokeslam. Nice to see HBK come out as well to give his feud with Taker some focus tonight.

Overall Nige it was a good show, not as good as previous shows as you probably know but it was a very enjoyable show, with some interesting storylines starting. I'm looking forward to next week. BTW happy new year mate, hope you had a good night last night!
 
#929 ·
Shawn Michaels vs The Undertaker for Judgment Day should be off the hook to be honest.

All the news seemed good and well i am not trying to be an ass but it seemed as if heaps of people are "injured". Is this because you had no plans for them or because you need them injured for certain angles??? Just curious really.
 
#931 ·
The CRUNK IN YO SYSTEM Review:

~ The opening segment was good. I liked the two interruptions and Linda McMahon having to sort out all these hectic situations on Smackdown. The Masters of the Mat interruption made sense, since they have a legitamate gripe with the ECW guys not getting suspeneded, and the Matt Hardy interruption was good because it makes it seem like Matt realyl means business in his Punk feud. It was made even better by him jumping straigh the to point and demanding a match. Good stuff.

~ A riff between Shelton and the Shellion? I hope this is just Shelton asserting his dominance and not a hint to a breakup between these two. I guess We'll find out later in Shelton's match with Chavo. Anyway, good promo coming fresh off a title win. Benjamin looks good, and my guess it that his push will continue.

~ The Sydal/Jeter bit was nice. I like how you're developing these young guys, with these two getting mic time and a decent storyline going. I'm anxious to see where you take them from here.

~ Good win for Shelton Benjamin in an exciting match. No Shannon Moore? Darn. And after I came with a clever nickname for him and everything. I hope the Shellion isn't out of the fold completely. I mean, he could very well be a challenger to Shelton after the segment earlier.

~ Matt Sydal got a pretty good victory for someone who didn't seem like he had his head in the game last week or earlier in the show. I can see why he was confused by Jeter's celebrating at the end of the match, seeing as how the two had just argued, but it kinda seemed to me like he blew Jeter off. I like the slow transition and the building tension, instead of just having Jeter come out and cost Sydal the match (which I originally predicted).

~ The Mickie/Beth segment was good, especially Mickie's line about Beth's losing streak. These women are two of the best Divas, so hopefully this fued will restore some credibility to that division. I also liked them getting separated before a brawl could break out.

~ The Shawn Michaels and Michael Shane interaction was good. I like that they actually are interacting, and you're not completely ignoring the fact that they're related. This kinda picks up where last week's left off. The only complaint I have is that it seemed very random for Michales to ask Shane to team with him. To my knowledge, neither of them have any beef with any tag team on your roster, so why (other than just for the sake of teaming together) would they want to team together? Maybe my question will be answered later in the show...

~ Before I say anything else: Tazz as GM...make it happen! Tazz is a great on-screen character, and would make an awesome Stone Cold Steve Austin-like GM. Anyway, this segement was ok. HBK reminded me of a little kid running to ask his parent's permission before doing something. I like the Masters of the Mat V. Shawn and Shane, but I think the setup could've been better. Perhaps The Masters could've interrupted Shane and Shawn's convo earlier, saying something like "Oh, look at our champions..." then preceeding to bust on Shawn for being old, and Shane for riding his coattails. They walk away, then Shawn makes the suggestion that they team, and goes to ask Linda. Idk, just my thoughts, I'm excited for the match though.

~ Solid win for Elijah Burke. I like the intense staredown with MVP coming out to ringside, but never getting in Burke's face. Again with the slow build. Good stuff here.

~ The Masters segment was good, especially when the UK Pack stepped in. I like the build of the Masters, and I'm expecting an awesome title run from them. I think with the way you've beem building them they will go all the way. Looking past Shawn and Shane may come back to haunt them though.

~ The Matt/Punk segment was gold, especially Punk. The hot head/pot head line was brilliant. This could be a big money feud, especially with segments like this one. Linda McMahon is getting alot of screen time, and Punk has balls to be cutting her off. He learns his lesson though when she makes the main event. Great main event btw. I loved this segment, I call this Promo of the Year so far! (I know 2009 just started, but it's still a darn good segment).

~ Good tag team match. I expected the Masters to put up more of a fight than they did, escepcially with the way you've been building them. But, the action was good, Michaels looked like a star, and Shane got some instant cred just by being in the match as Shawn's partner.

~ The main event was a darn good match. You made the right call on the finish, as neither man could really lose, and Matt Hardy costing Punk the match would just be overkill on the screwjobs in their feud. Good match, good finish, great aftermath.
 
#933 ·
PWInsider.com - FCW Results (12th April '08)

“FCW” TV Results
(Saturday 12th April)



The announce team of Steve Keirn & Tom Prichard reminded us that James Reiher will be making his first defence of the FCW Heavyweight Championship against his sidekick, Afa Jr later on. They also said that the new FCW Tag Team Champions, The Empire will team up with the number one contender for the FCW Women’s Championship, Roucka to take on the Women’s Champion, Shantelle Taylor and the team of TJ Wilson & Teddy Hart, the two men that McIntyre & Sanders beat last week to win the vacant titles.

Shawn Spears started the show by storming down to the ring and talking smack about Mike Kruel. He blamed Kruel for plotting and waiting for the chance to stab him in the back, which came last week, costing him his match in the Television Championship tournament. He called Kruel pathetic for taking his time and setting him up for a fall, then called him out to settle it like men. Kruel then made his way down to the ring with a microphone. He said that Spears had it figured out pretty good and that he’s not going to argue about any little detail of it. He then said that Spears had it coming all along and it was simply the consequences of screwing with Michael W. Kruel. They got right in each others face, going nose to nose until Dusty Rhodes came out to the entrance and told them to pack it in right there, which they reluctantly did, backing away from each other but still sharing intense stares. It allowed Dusty to announce that next week, Kruel would have his chance to take part in the Television Championship tournament. Dusty then said he had the pleasure to announce Kruel’s opponent would be making his wrestling debut, the son of the legendary “Nature Boy” Ric Flair, Reid Flair. Kruel didn’t know what to make of it as he looked on from the ring, but Rhodes wasn’t done before announcing that he also had the honour to reveal that Reid won’t be the only son of a true wrestling legend joining FCW, as later on tonight, Joe Hennig, the son of “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig, would take part in his debut match. The crowd seemed to be excited about both announcements as Rhodes then warned Spears & Kruel to stay the hell out of each others way with Kruel then leaving to heat from the fans as Roucka walked out to meet him, clapping at the same time, showing she is proud of his actions.



**Commercial Break**


The Opening Match
Television Championship Qualifying Match

Ricky Ortiz vs “The Natural” Nic Nemeth

A decent match with Nemeth starting off strong before Ortiz fought back. Nemeth turned the screw and caught Ortiz with a rake to the eyes as he was pulled up, then nailed Ortiz with an inverted DDT. He took his time recovering and getting back up too, but he dragged Ortiz back up, finishing him off with a jumping russian leg sweep. Afterwards, Nemeth asked for a microphone and said this was the first win of three that will take him all the way to becoming the first ever FCW Television Champion, because there is no one who is remotely capable of shining his boots, let alone beating him.

Winner: Nic Nemeth by pinfall.


Lena Yada was standing by with The Backstreet Boys, JJ Matthews & Cameron York. She asked them how it felt to make their debut last week and beat The DiBiase Brothers. Matthews said that being back with Cam’ was fun and that they showed two spoilt kids that it takes more than a name to get respect or to have anywhere near what it takes to be successful in this business. Just as Lena was about to ask another question, Mike & Brett DiBiase jumped them from behind and pummelled them to the floor. They continued to stomp away on them until other wrestlers made their way in to the shot and pulled them away with Mike calling York & Matthews punks and asking them how they liked that for a proper welcome.


**Commercial Break**


Dusty Rhodes was talking on his phone in the back, when the new FCW Tag Team Champions, The Empire walked up to him with Katie Lea not looking best pleased. Dusty didn’t look too happy to see them and told the person on the phone that he’d call them back. He hung up as an angry Katie Lea told Dusty she wanted to know what exactly he thought he was doing in putting Roucka in a match with her two guys instead of her. Dusty explained by saying it was simple, it would be the champions and the number one contenders together, and reminded Katie Lea that Roucka is first in line for a shot at the Women’s Championship, not her, and saying that’s the way it is in a patronising manner. Katie looked on the verge of snapping as she told Dusty that she knew what he was up to, saying it was plain prejudice once again, just like the reason not to throw the coronation tonight for McIntyre & Sanders after they won the tag titles last week. She then told him that TJ Wilson & Teddy Hart weren’t worthy of being in the same ring as them after they were defeated easily last week and that they will go one step further and make an even bigger statement this week. Dusty said the boys can make whatever statement they want, but she won’t be doing anything and banned Katie from ringside for the match. Katie protested and told Dusty he’s not going to get away with this blatant racial prejudice, and then said he’ll find out who really holds the power.


Pre match, the “Campus Legend” Brad Allen got in the ring and said that he had the honour of being the first man to take on the son of the ever so perfect, Curt Hennig in just a matter of seconds. He then said that Mr. Perfect was indeed a wrestling legend and a true Hall of Famer, but it’s his fall from grace that he associates him with, something that didn’t go down too well with the fans. Allen told them that Hennig wasn’t as perfect outside of the ring as he was in it, then said his son, intentionally calling him John instead of Joe, could tell them just how proud of his father he is despite being him ending up being known as “Mr. Junkie”. As the crowd booed the laughing Allen, Hennig’s music hit and he angrily walked out to a very big pop, going right at Allen before the bell.



Match 2
Joe Hennig vs “Campus Legend” Brad Allen

Hennig put on a great showing for his debut, taking it right to Allen, roughing him up with some vicious shots in the corner. Allen managed to get back in it after the referee stood between them to calm Hennig down, resulting in Allen low blowing his opponent. Hennig fought back and stunned Allen with a jawbreaker, and once he got back up, he finished him off with The Perfect Plex. The fans gave him a great response, but as he was celebrating his win, a man walked out to the entrance. It looked to be Colt Cabana, and he applauded Hennig as the newest FCW superstar looked confused. Cabana then grinned and turned back round, leaving Hennig wondering what he was doing out there.

Winner: Joe Hennig by pinfall.


The camera cut to panic in the back as several referees and Dusty Rhodes stood around in a circle. Michael W. Kruel then entered the scene looking worried and asked Dusty what the problem was. Dusty stepped back and we could see Roucka lying on the floor. Kruel looked shocked and kneeled down beside her straight away and checked if she was out cold, but she responded albeit faintly. One of the refs then checked on her, and she looked very groggy as he then told Dusty she needed a medic. The angry Rhodes then went off to find one as Kruel and the refs remained beside her.


**Commercial Break**


Afa Jr was taping up his wrists in his locker room when James Reiher walked in and greeted his bodyguard and opponent for the night. The FCW Champion said that they didn’t have to go through with this ridiculous plan of Dusty’s and told him to get changed again. Afa said that Rhodes came to see him earlier on and that there’s no way out of it, there’s nothing they can do, the match will go ahead. Reiher said that Dusty is a real piece of work, but he then seemed to get an idea, telling Afa that he had a resolution to all this. He then said that to show Dusty that they won’t be manipulated, Afa could simply lie down later on so that he (Reiher) could retain his title. Afa didn’t seem impressed and told Reiher that he comes from a respected wrestling family, and that he can’t and won’t show them the disrespect by tainting the family name by laying down for anyone, including Reiher. The champ didn’t look happy, and he told Afa that there was only one possibility left, that he beat him like he beat everyone on the way to becoming the FCW Champion. Afa stood up to him and told him that was the only way he would beat him as he’s not lying down for anyone. An angry Reiher stared Afa right in the eye for several seconds before saying if that’s the way he wants it, then that’s what he’ll do and stormed out, leaving Afa to carry on getting ready.


The Empire, including Katie Lea made their way to the ring with both McIntyre & Sanders waving British flags, as well as having the FCW Tag Team Championship title belts wrapped around their waists. Katie grabbed a microphone and said it was very unfortunate that Roucka appeared to have been attacked backstage before the break and that she was now unable to compete, allowing her (Katie) to take her rightful place alongside McIntyre & Sanders. She grinned with a look of satisfaction on her face before saying that despite the prejudice of Dusty Rhodes, there will be a celebration, albeit a minor one to recognise and appreciate the achievements of the new FCW Tag Team Champions. She asked all the fans to stand up to show a sign of respect for the Great British national anthem. Once it played, the fans booed all the way through it, and when it finished, Katie launched a tirade on them for being just as disrespectful as Dusty. Before it got out of hand, TJ Wilson, Teddy Hart & Shantelle Taylor walked down, grinding Katie’s rant to a halt. Katie, McIntyre & Sanders didn’t look impressed at all as the fans cheered the three Canadians.



Match 3
TJ Wilson, Teddy Hart & Shantelle Taylor vs The Empire

A really good match up with everyone getting involved, but come the end, it was down to Taylor & Katie as Hart & Wilson brawled on the outside with McIntyre & Sanders. Katie dodged a missile dropkick from Taylor and mocked the champion as she rolled around on the mat, urging her up. Just as she was getting back up, Roucka ran down to the ring, leaving Katie shocked. Roucka jumped up on to the apron, causing Katie to run at her, but Roucka jumped back down with Taylor then walking up behind Katie and rolling her up for the victory to the delight of the fans. Roucka stared back at Taylor for a moment before Taylor exited the ring as McIntyre & Sanders slid back to check on a stunned Katie. Taylor joined Hart & Wilson on the outside, hugging them as The Empire looked pissed on the inside.

Winners: TJ Wilson, Teddy Hart & Shantelle Taylor by pinfall.


**Commercial Break**


The Main Event
FCW Heavyweight Championship

Afa Jr vs James Reiher (c)

Reiher was reluctant in the early going, but he was left with no choice but to fight as Afa went right at him. He put the champ on the back foot and came close to taking the title after a spin out powerbomb with Reiher just getting his shoulder up in time. The tide turned for a moment as Afa went up to the top rope for a diving headbutt with Reiher dodging it by rolling to the side. Both men took their time coming round, and it was Reiher who made his way up first as Afa sat up. The champ stepped back in to the ropes and looked for the Crack ‘em in Da Mouth, but Afa pulled his head back as Reiher ran past. Afa stood up and grabbed Reiher around the waist straight away for a belly to back suplex, but Reiher blocked it with elbows, sending Afa down to the mat. As Reiher turned round though, he saw Afa getting straight back up, and the champ decided to cut his losses, seeing Afa getting once up again. He climbed through the ropes and grabbed his title before walking to the back with the ref counting him out. Reiher turned back and just stared at a not so happy Afa as the show came to a close.

Winner: Afa Jr by count out.


**End of Show**


CONFIRMED FOR NEXT WEEK
Television Championship Qualifying Match​
Reid Flair vs Michael W. Kruel


 
#934 ·
FCW Comments​

Just thought i would drop in and leave some very, very brief comments on FCW.

Nic Nemeth > Ricky Ortiz. Nemeth should be the television champion.

The Dibiase's own the Backstreet Boys.

The Empire makes me drool, screw Dusty and his hatred towards them.

Joe Hennig well i have not heard much about him, is he anywhere near the talent of his father???

The Empire lot damn it, but i guess it was okay because my other favorite talent in FCW is Teddy Hart.

Afa Jr wins but thank god he is not champion i personally don't think he cuts it.

Another good edition.
 
#936 ·
I think that Nic Nemeth could use a gimmick change. Maybe a pornstar-wannabe named Dolph Ziggler? Decent FCW show, gives you an idea of who's coming up to the main roster. My problem is Dusty Rhodes being some kind of authority figure, I just can't take him seriously with that voice.
 
#938 ·
I think that Nic Nemeth could use a gimmick change. Maybe a pornstar-wannabe named Dolph Ziggler?
As Ziggler, he'll always be nothing more than a comedy character. His gimmick in FCW that he portrayed before his call up as
"The Natural" Nic Nemeth gives him a lot more credibility. It's similar to the Mr. Perfect gimmick.

Thanks for the feedback too y2j, i know this wasn't one of my better shows, but i'm experimenting with my roster for the time being and starting all new angles.
 
#937 ·
Sorry about the very late review Nige, but no internet access for three days means I couldn’t check out your show, so I couldn’t review :(.

Nige's (late) Smackdown Review

With me being an Edge mark, it is sad to see that you have taken him out of action for about two months. It should be a good match between Michaels and Taker for Judgment Day, and a good opening promo by Linda and the Masters of the Mat. A standard heel promo here by the Masters of the Mat asking Linda to suspend their rivals, but Linda won’t budge. It should be a good match next week between Haas and Masters against the Extremists, Tommy Dreamer and Steven Richards. Hopefully Punk vs. other Hardy is set for tonight.

Standard but good heel promo here with Benjamin and his lackey Shannon Moore, as he says that he simply beat Hardy to become the US Champ. Good to see that Shannon got owned by Benjamin and gets decked. Hopefully this is the start of a huge push for Benjamin without Moore by his side, and hopefully he beats Chavo tonight. A heel turn for Sydal or Jeter? I like it.

Good opening match between the new US Champion and Chavo Guerrero, and it was a simple but effective way to get Shelton over. It is good to see that you didn’t completely squash Chavo and had him get a little bit of offense in, but it was a good decision to have Shelton go over Chavo.

It was nice to see that Sydal defeated Striker, and hopefully he gets a Cruiserweight Title push in the future. You know that I am a Sydal mark and so are you (I think :p), so hopefully you have him in a feud with Jeter in which he goes over and gets a feud over the Cruiserweight Championship. With what happened after the match, I now think that it will be a Jeter heel turn.

Classic backstage Diva promo with the hair pulling and such, but it was effective which is why I liked it. Obviously you are continuing the Mickie/Beth feud which is reminiscent of Trish/Lita in my opinion, so I am liking this feud. I liked the interaction between Shane and Michaels, and it looks as though you are creating a family alliance.

TBH, I don’t really like Elijah Burke as a face, just like you don’t like Kofi in my thread as a heel :p. Honestly, his character is just meant to be a face, and hopefully you turn him back heel once his feud with MVP is over. Obvious win for Burke over Orlando Jordan as Burke is getting a huge push, which I like.

Nice confrontation between the Masters of the Mat and the UK Pack, leading me to think that the Masters of the Mat will defeat the Extremists and go on to face the UK Pack for the titles at Judgment Day. Loving Hardy on the lookout for Punk.

Loved this promo between Punk and Hardy, and I love that both men are being aggressive, as it takes their feud up another level, perhaps even personal status. It was a very strong promo from both men and built up their feud greatly, and also it leads to what promises to be a great main event between Punk and the Undertaker.

I am not sure if the family partnership is a permanent one or a temporary one, but I will support you either way as both men can carry themselves as singles superstars, but they could take your tag team division to the next level. Anyway I was expecting some type interference from either the Extremists and/or the UK Pack, as it would be great way to further the feud in my opinion, but I think you did this to make the cousins look strong as they probably don’t need interference to win, so kudos to you for that.

This is the match that I am most looking forward to, one of my all time favourite wrestlers up against one of if not my favourite superstars today, Undertaker vs. CM Punk. I would have loved to see this match in real life. I liked how you had Punk control a portion of the match as it really made him look like a superior superstar on the brand, as he had the upper hand of one of the veterans of the business. I liked the DQ finish as it didn’t drain Punk of all momentum and it built him up as credible superstar after controlling a good portion of what was a great match. The aftermath was good, as I feel that since you have brought Punk and Hardy into the Taker and Michaels feud, it has made the Hardy and Punk feud a feud that is on the cusp of the main event as you have included them with the two main main-eventers.

Overall Nige, it was a good show by all means, but as previously mentioned, I think you have done better. It had some good stuff going on and you built up some feuds very well, but I just feel that something was missing in this show. FYI, I liked the font that you used for Raw than you did for Smackdown, Raw seemed more spaced out to me TBH. Anyway Nige, it was a good show, don’t get me wrong, but I have seen you do better and then is room for improvement.
 
#939 ·
WWE.com - Preview - Raw (Preview - 14th April 2008)

RAW Preview
14th April 2008

Tokyo Dome
Tokyo, Japan







KANE RETAINS, AND ORTON’S NEXT!
“The Legend Killer” Randy Orton’s rematch clause for the WWE Championship looked to be very simple, setting up a showdown at Backlash with Kane, the man who took the title away from him at Wrestlemania. However, a spanner was thrown in to the works last week as William Regal, Eric Bischoff’s new Executive Assistant suggested Kane should defend his title. Bischoff agreed, and Kane put the gold on the line against the same man he pinned for the title at Wrestlemania in John Cena. The challenger put on a strong performance, but in the end it was Kane who retained the title, only for Orton to make a statement by storming the ring and giving The Big Red Machine a taste of the RKO as we get closer to Backlash.

Is that an act Orton may regret as Raw heads to the far east?

THERE’S GOING TO BE HELL TO PAY
We’ve seen strong words exchanged between Evolution and The McMahon Men over the last couple of months, but last Monday saw John “Bradshaw” Layfield take things way too far. After the permanent reformation of Evolution was confirmed, JBL, his father and half brother ground the celebration to a halt for Triple H, Batista & Ric Flair. They announced that they would be going for revenge at Backlash in a match that Eric Bischoff refused to sanction before JBL crossed the line and spoke of his desire to see his half sister, Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley miscarry hers and Triple H’s unborn baby. It was no surprise to see The Game get angry as he and JBL ended up brawling at ringside, only for security to eventually break things up and then escort Evolution out of the arena as a result of Bischoff’s orders.

All six men will be in Japan this Monday night, just what can we expect this week?

DYKSTRA SKATING ON THIN ICE
Kenny Dykstra hasn’t been shy of talking himself up since coming to Raw in the draft a couple of weeks ago, but he may have cut short his Raw career last Monday night. After another run in with John Cena, Dykstra decided to anger him by playing a part in Cena’s failure to reclaim the WWE Championship during his match with Kane last week. Just as Cena managed to get going and looked set to pick up a shock victory, Dykstra made his way down to the ring, distracting Cena. The distraction was enough to see Kane condemn Cena to defeat and satisfy the youngster who claims he will become a future Hall of Famer.

It’s hard to believe there won’t be a price to pay for Dykstra this coming Monday. Tune in and find out what how Cena will respond.


WHO’S SCHEMING? KOFI OR CODY?
Several weeks ago, we saw Carlito and his brother Eddie accuse Kofi Kingston of making a play for Kelly Kelly, Cody Rhodes’ girlfriend, right in front of Cody. Both Kofi and Cody played it down, but it’s seemed that in recent weeks, there is a connection of sorts between Kofi and Kelly, whether it is innocent or not. Cody questioned it himself for the first time last week having seen Kofi become the Intercontinental Champion the week before in a tag team match where Cody was his partner. We even saw Cody go to William Regal and ask for some kind of clarification on the title, staking his own claim for his friend’s property. It looks like there is trouble ahead for these two young men.

Is there something going on between Kelly & Kofi, and does Cody really want to take the Intercontinental Championship from his friend?

REGAL’S IN THE HOT SEAT
No one was more shocked than William Regal when he was drafted to Raw a couple of weeks back, but the former General Manager of Smackdown has had no choice but to come to terms with the fact he won’t be enjoying the same position on Raw. However, he was offered an olive branch by Eric Bischoff, and last Monday night he accepted the offer to become his Executive Assistant. It was also revealed that Regal will be in sole charge this Monday when Raw comes to you live from The Tokyo Dome.

What will he have planned for us on this special night?

SPARKS ARE GOING TO FLY IN TOKYO
John Morrison & The Miz really stuck the boot in to the World Tag Team Champions of Paul London & Brian Kendrick last Monday night, stating their disgust for their title reign. It led to a response from the powers that be, and it was confirmed that the two teams will meet for the titles at Backlash. There will be a sneak preview for us all this week as one member of each team will go head to head with Kendrick facing The Miz.

Will we get an indication of which team will leave Backlash as the World Tag Team Champions once these two step in to the ring on Monday night?

PLUS
Ted DiBiase Jr picked up another victory and successful defence of his Million Dollar Championship after defeating Eugene last week. He wasn’t satisfied with just winning as he laid in to Eugene after his arm was raised. What is next for this impressive yet arrogant youngster?

Cryme Time had a run in with The Colon Brothers last week as Shad took offence to Carlito’s big mouth, resulting in the elder Colon being knocked to the floor. We learnt that the two teams will meet again this week, only inside the ring this time. Will there be a similar outcome to last week, or can Carlito stay on his feet this time?

Santino Marella became Finlay’s first victim last week since the draft brought the Irishman to Raw two weeks ago. Finlay’s little friend, Hornswoggle wasn’t part of the draft, but he made an appearance too, helping Finlay to a victory that left the Italian Stallion very unhappy. One must wonder if Santino will have something to say about the little man’s role in the defeat.

With Beth Phoenix having left Raw for pastures new, Natalya Neidhart staked her claim for a shot at Victoria and the Women’s Championship after an impressive victory last week. Victoria watched on from the announce position as Natalya forced Candice Michelle to tap out to the sharpshooter. Maybe life without Beth on Raw isn’t going to be as easy as Victoria may have thought with the dangerous Natalya standing right over the champion’s shoulder.



CONFIRMED FOR RAW THIS WEEK

Brian Kendrick vs The Miz

Cryme Time vs The Colon Brothers

Kelly Kelly vs Melina



 
#940 ·
Raw preview looks good mate, will be reviewd. Its in Japan lol. The matches you have booked will be good such as Kendrick v Miz because both men are up and coming. The Orton and Kane thing is coming along well and the fact that wwe are doing it will be good to see what diiference yours will be to their's. The psoter for Triple H and JBL is awsome.
 
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