<There are a couple of controversial moments in the show that you will see for yourself, but I want to point out that I planned this show and the storylines going in to them several months ago as some of you will know thanks to my strong belief in planning. You will know what they are when you read them, but I’ll address them afterwards to avoid giving anything away now.
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WWE JUDGMENT DAY 2008
Sunday May 25, 2008
Live from The Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky
*Opening Video*
Images: Shawn Michaels’ and then The Undertaker’s celebrations from Wrestlemania. Shawn Michaels’ Hell in a Cell spot from Bad Blood ’97 and getting his arm raised at the end of the match. Last Friday’s Smackdown with Taker chokeslamming and then tomb stoning Michaels. The face to face confrontation from three weeks ago on Smackdown between the phenom and the show stopper.
Narrator: There comes a time when giants collide. . . There is a time when only man can stand tall, and that time has come. . . Two legends will collide for the richest prize in their industry to determine who shall stand tall and proud amongst their peers. . . These legends will sacrifice everything their body has to offer to emerge victorious on this day. . . their Judgment Day.
*Cut to Ringside*
*Pyro*
*Pyro*
*Pyro*
*Pyro*
*Theme Song*
“Take It All” by Zididada
Michael Cole: Welcome everyone to Judgment Day, and what a night it promises to be as Shawn Michaels defends the World Heavyweight Championship against the phenom, The Undertaker in the main event in what should be a match for the ages.
“Time to Shine” hits as
Johnny Jeter makes his way down to the ring looking very confident despite the jeers from the crowd.
*Video Recap*
- Three weeks ago on Smackdown – Matt Sydal walking down to the ring for his match with Johnny Jeter, but Jeter attacking him from behind on the ramp and injuring Sydal’s ribs.
- A week later with Tazz informing Jeter in his office that the match with Sydal will go ahead at Judgment Day.
- Last Friday on Smackdown with Jeter telling Maria how he’s visualised what he wants to do to Sydal, and then running Sydal down off after his victory over Super Crazy with Sydal returning, racing down to the ring and clotheslining Jeter to the outside.
*Cut to Ringside*
“Axeman” plays as a very focused
Matt Sydal walks down to the ring, not taking his eyes off of the now more serious Jeter.
***The Opening Match***
Matt Sydal vs Johnny Jeter
Sydal started the match very aggressively and out of character for him with Jeter trying to slow it down where he could, leaving the ring for brief spells to dodge the bullet.
ENDING: Now in control of the match, Jeter urges his former friend back up, goading Sydal as he slowly makes his way back up to his feet. The moment he’s up, Jeter pounces on him and whips him in to the ropes, but as Sydal hits the ropes, he grabs hold of them and grinds to a halt. Jeter looks angered and races right at him with Sydal fighting for survival, reacting by lifting his boot up in to Jeter’s face, sending him back pedalling across the mat. Sydal takes a mini breather before climbing through the ropes to stand on the apron (halfway across) as Jeter is sent back holding his jaw. As Jeter then turns round, Sydal springboards off the top rope and nails the man who stabbed him in the back with a clothesline. That gets a pop from the crowd as the very determined Sydal stands back up quickly, followed by Jeter who turns round in to his former partner. The high flyer grabs him around the upper chest with both arms before hitting an incredible belly to belly moonsault slam, THE CYCLORAMA. . . . . The fans cheer like crazy for that as their boy Sydal follows up straight away to go for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No, Jeter just lifts his shoulder up with Sydal sitting back up and sinking his head in to his hands. The frustration and disappointment is clear to see as he thought he had it won there and then. He shakes it off and stands back up to pull Jeter across to the corner, putting him in place for the SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . The fans cheer and rise to their feet as Sydal climbs all the way to the top rope, but Jeter starts to come round and grabs the bottom rope, clutching it tight and then pulling himself on to the apron and out of the danger. Sydal grimaces before jumping down off the top and pulling Jeter away from the ropes, but Jeter sits up and pushes him chest first in to the pads, reacting quickly to then crawl up behind him and roll him in to a pinning combination. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Kick out! Jeter stares at the referee as he gets back up, but he doesn’t have time to argue as Sydal gets back to his feet. Jeter grabs Sydal by the arm as he turns round and tries for an irish whip in to the opposite corner only for Sydal to reverse it with Jeter hitting the pads instead. Sydal doesn’t waste a second as he rushes in with serious intent, but as he gets close to his target, Jeter steps out of the corner with Sydal running chest first in to the pads. The impact takes its toll as he turns round and staggers out of the corner with Jeter capitalising instantly by kicking the fan’s favourite in the gut and planting him with a thunderous TORNADO DDT. . . . . Sydal’s head bounces off the mat with Jeter hurrying to turn him on to his back to hook both legs with the referee making the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Sydal gets his shoulder up and Jeter can’t believe it as he sits up in absolute shock, gazing in disbelief at his opponent lying across the mat. He yells at the referee and stands up to make his point, lifting three fingers in to the ref’s face, but the ref makes it clear it was only a two count. With Sydal showing no real sign of movement, the furious Jeter walks in to the corner and climbs up to the top rope with the fans booing him. He doesn’t mess about and jumps off for a double leg drop, but Sydal rolls on to his side with Jeter crash landing on the mat to the obvious delight of the cheering Kentucky crowd. They try to encourage Sydal once again by chanting his name and clapping, and it has an effect as he gets to his knees, but Jeter is also making his way back up. They manage to stand up at the same time several feet apart with Sydal turning round to see Jeter racing at him, but Sydal stuns him with an enziguri in to a head scissors takedown. The fans love it as Sydal picks apart Jeter again, and he races back up to his feet before connecting with a standing moonsault, landing right on top of Jeter before hooking the leg for a pin attempt. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No, shoulder up from Jeter. Sydal doesn’t dwell on the kick out as he rises to his feet right away with Jeter rolling over and crawling the short distance towards the ropes. Sydal goes right after him and reaches down to grab him by his right leg, but Jeter turns over to drive his left leg in to Sydal’s face and push him back and down to the mat. Both men then pick themselves back up with Sydal walking in to a kick to the gut from Jeter who follows up with an irish whip. And as Sydal comes back off the ropes, Jeter jumps up and turns in the air to nail him with a back elbow smash. They both fall to the mat, and as Jeter sits up, the fatigue is obvious as he takes a deep breath before he struggles back to his feet. He then runs in to the ropes and looks to hit a springboard moonsault, but Sydal lifts his knees up in to Jeter’s stomach.
That brings a pop from the crowd as Jeter falls to the mat clutching his chest with the fans then cheering Sydal’s name again, willing him on. It takes him several seconds to stand back up while Jeter also struggles to get up again, and it’s Jeter who looks to strike first with a right hand, but Sydal blocks it and kicks him in the gut. He then pulls Jeter in to his body and quickly plants him with a PUMP HANDLE HALF NELSON DRIVER. . . . . A big roar rings round the arena as Sydal races back up to his feet and drags the motionless Jeter towards the corner. He then climbs up the ropes at quite a speed to then leap off and connect with the SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . It’s deafening inside The Rupp Arena as Sydal lands on top of Jeter and holds on for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNER: Matt Sydal by pinfall @ 10.28.
AFTERMATH: “Axeman” hits to a big pop as Sydal stands up and throws his arms up in to the air with absolute delight and relief. The ref then grabs his left arm to signal the victory with Sydal then walking in to one of corners to celebrate his win, punching the air in front of his equally ecstatic fans. He then climbs down and does the same in the opposite corner before leaving the ring and walking up the ramp satisfied while a frustrated Jeter sits up on the mat holding his stomach.
*Video Promo*
From Earlier Today
Ron Killings talking to a worker in the back when he is jumped by
Chavo Guerrero. The Mexican clubbed him across the back and tossed him in to a wall before grabbing him once again and tossing him head first in to a locker room door. Killings dropped to the floor where he clutched his head while Chavo smiled at the attack with the worker going to get help before Chavo turned round and walked away, satisfied by his work.
*Cut to Ringside*
Michael Cole: We’re being told that due to that cowardly attack by Chavo Guerrero earlier on today that Ron Killings is being checked over to see if he will be able to compete in the scramble match later on tonight. . . But right now, Josh Matthews is standing by.
*Cut Backstage*
Josh Matthews: Joining me at this time are the men that will tonight defend the WWE Tag Team Championship, Paul Burchill and Harry Smith, The UK Pack.
The camera zooms in to reveal them standing there looking very serious indeed while the tag titles resting on their shoulders with Burchill wearing a cast on his right arm.
Josh Matthews: Paul I have to ask you just how you’re going to be able to compete tonight with a broken wrist after what Chris Masters did to you Friday night.
Paul Burchill: It’s very simple Josh. . . payback. . . After Masters attacked me in the parking lot last Friday night, I’ve been waiting and waiting what seems like a couple of weeks, not days for tonight to come. And now it has. . . As for my wrist, I knew it was broken the moment I felt the heavy car door slam against it, but the doctors told me, albeit reluctantly, I would be able to wrestle tonight as long as I wear this cast. (He lifts his arm up for a close up) Granted, it’s not ideal but I have permission from Tazz also, because nothing is stopping me from getting my hands on Chris Masters tonight.
Josh Matthews: But there must be a lot of risk involved even with the cast.
Paul Burchill: Of course, but like I told the doctors, I either wrestle with the cast or without it. It doesn’t matter what it takes to get me out there tonight because there is no way Harry and I are going to forfeit the match and our titles to that thug and little accomplice of his.
Harry Smith: Josh, you have to understand what Paul said, we had two options. Either we give up the titles and walk away from being the tag team champions or we do what we’ve done from the moment we won them, and that’s fight tooth and nail to hold on to them. . . We beat the odds at Wrestlemania and we’ll do the same tonight.
Josh Matthews: Harry, are you not the slightest bit concerned that your partner’s injury could ultimately cost you the tag titles here tonight?
Smith looks at Burchill and smiles.
Harry Smith: His mind is made up and that’s it. I can’t stop him going out there, and quite frankly I wouldn’t. We’re a team and we’re going to do what it takes as a team to keep these titles away from the two men that are going to pay for what they did Friday night. And believe me, they are going to pay. You can quote me on that.
Josh Matthews: Thanks fellas. Good luck.
Smith & Burchill turn round and walk out of the shot.
*Video Recap*
- Four weeks ago on Smackdown with Mia Rain coming out of the crowd and attacking Michelle McCool, distracting Mickie James and costing her the match against Beth Phoenix.
- Seven days later and Rain coming out of the crowd again, attacking Mickie & Maria after The Glamazon defeated McCool.
- Last Friday night with Rain picking up her first singles win by beating McCool and Mickie asking Tazz to face Rain at Judgment Day.
***Match #2***
Mickie James vs Mia Rain
Rain has been aggressive since the get go, looking very aggressive and intimidating despite Mickie coming back at her on a number of occasions and posing a real threat.
ENDING: The intense looking Rain calmly approaches the wriggling Mickie as she remains on the mat. Mia reaches down and drags her back up to level her with a vicious forearm shot, following up with an irish whip. But as Mickie comes flying back off the ropes, she dives at her Mia and takes her opponent down with a LOU THESZ PRESS. . . . . The fans in Lexington really get behind Mickie, cheering loudly as she pummels Rain with a series of shots to the skull until the ref steps in. Mickie doesn’t want to stop but she reluctantly pulls herself off of Rain with both divas making their way up to their feet as Mickie looks to get herself in to the match, and she does just that by pouncing on the groggy Rain and planting her with a SWINGING REVERSE DDT. . . . . A big pop echoes around the arena as Mickie frantically scurries across the mat and hooks both Rain’s legs with the referee making the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Shoulder up! Mickie sits up in disappointment as she sees Rain turn on to her side. James doesn’t let the disappointment get to her as she stands back up and drags Mia up from her knees, pulling Rain’s head under her arm before sending her crashing back courtesy of a LEG HOOK SUPLEX. . . . . With the leg hooked and Rain flat on her back, the ref hits the mat again to count her shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Rain lifts her shoulder up off the mat to prevent a defeat. Mickie takes it on the chin and looks fired up with the belief that she can win the match as she hurries to her feet and urges Rain up. It doesn’t take too long as the tough diva also picks herself back up, turning right round in to Mickie’s grasp with the former Women’s Champion kicking her in the gut and pulling her in to place for the IMPLANT DDT. . . . . Mickie lifts her arm in to the air to get the crowd going, but it gives Mia the chance to react, slipping out of Mickie’s claws and slipping behind her to push her forward in to the ropes with desperation. And as Mickie comes back, Mia grabs her around the waist and sends James crashing down to the mat with a devastating spinning back breaker after a heavy collision with Rain’s knee first. That could be the end as a sadistic looking Rain grins before reaching across and going for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Mickie fights on, kicking out and leaving Rain somewhat bemused. It seems to anger her as she then stands back up, dragging Mickie up with her before sending her right back down again with a neckbreaker. Rain tries to end it with Mickie looking in danger as her legs are hooked once again with the ref dropping to his knees to count the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Cheers ring out as Mickie shows her resilience once again by somehow lifting her shoulder up off the mat. Rain looks absolutely stunned as she sits back up and stares down at Mickie slowly rolling on to her side. Mia becomes crazed as she slowly stands back up without taking her eyes off of Mickie, looking totally focused on hurting her. She then reaches down as Mickie gets up to her knees, but as Mia tries to help her up, Mickie stuns her by rolling in to a small package. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Rain just kicked out, but she rushes back up with Mickie still feeling the effects of the match so far. As Rain pulls her back up, Mickie responds once again with a spin kick to the gut, completely taking Rain by surprise. Mickie regains her composure before grabbing Rain by the head and signalling for some STRATUS FACTION. . . . . The crowd cheer like crazy as she then runs towards the ropes with Rain gripped tight, but evidently not tight enough as Mia tosses Mickie down to the mat after hitting the ropes for the springboard. Rain looks slightly human now as she takes a couple of seconds to herself as Mickie picks herself back up. Rain waits calmly for Mickie to turn round before charging at her and taking her down with a hard falling clothesline. Mia immediately gets back up and walks round to Mickie’s legs, shifting her in to place to lock in an INVERTED STF. . . . . The pain is written all over Mickie’s face as Rain’s determination to make her tap is just as evident, but with the fans willing her on, Mickie starts fighting the hold.
She’s not going anywhere right now, but with the crowd’s encouragement getting louder, Mickie responds by giving it everything she’s got to drag herself across the mat, gradually getting closer and closer to the bottom rope. Rain tries not to panic but she turns back to see that Mickie is within touching distance of the rope, and with one last throw of the dice, Mickie reaches out and grabs hold of the bottom rope to the delight of the crowd. Rain seems infuriated as she eventually lets the hold go and glares at Mickie, who looks exhausted. Rain stands up very slowly with evil intentions written all over her face as she drags a screaming Mickie away from the ropes and back up to her feet, where she then scoops her up on to her shoulder. Mickie starts wriggling around, desperately fighting to stay in the match, and she manages to slip down Mia’s back only for Rain to fight back straight away by swinging her elbow back in to the side of James’ head. Mickie falls to her knees momentarily as Rain then turns round and roughly woman-handles Mickie to lift her up in to the air for THE ACID RAIN (Bridging Strait Jacket Electric Chair Drop). . . . . Rain nails it and Mickie’s lights are well and truly out as Mia follows up to go for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNER: Mia Rain by pinfall @ 8.33.
AFTERMATH: “Let It Fall” hits to heat from the crowd as the smirking Mia Rain stands back up to get her arm raised by the referee. She looks slightly more relaxed now the match is over as she then walks to the ropes and climbs through them to walk to the back as Mickie remains laid out on the mat.
*Cut Backstage*
Tazz is walking through the back and walks up to a door that has the sign
“Medic” on it. He doesn’t knock and just walks in with a medic shining a light in both of
Ron Killings’ eyes as he sits on the table.
Tazz: How’s he doin’ doc?
The medic turns his instrument off and turns to Tazz.
Medic: To be honest, I’m not sure it’s such a good idea he competes tonight. There’s no real damage but he took quite a bang to the head. (Turns back to Killings) I’d advise you to forget about wrestling tonight just incase you suffer a concussion.
Ron Killings: No way man, I’m wrestlin’ tonight and nothin’ ya can say is gonna stop me.
Tazz: Whoa, listen to the doc. There ain’t no need to do yourself any damage tonight.
Killings stands up looking very serious.
Medic: I’m wrestlin’. If I get a concussion, so be it. I’m goin’ through wit’ the match and I’m gonna make Chavo wish he weren’t born.
Tazz holds his hands up and turns to the medic.
Tazz: You heard him. (Turns back to Killings) Well I guess I better wish you good luck since you might need it.
Ron Killings: It ain’t me who needs the luck boss, it’s Chavo. You better make sure there’s an ambulance ready for him after the match, ‘cos he’s sure as hell gonna need it when I’m through wit’ ‘im.
Killings walks over to the door and can’t leave quick enough with Tazz then turning back to the medic.
Tazz: You’re here all night right?
Medic: That’s right.
Tazz: Good. You could be a very busy man. . . Check ya later doc.
Tazz walks out as the camera fades out.
*Video Promo*
Image: Josh Hayger working out inside a wrestling ring in an empty building.
Narrator: The time is nearly here. The birth of a new sensation is just days away. . . He will show the entire population his talent is unlimited as he takes the WWE by storm. . . His name is Josh Hayger.
*Cut to Ringside*
***Match #3***
WWE United States Championship
15 Minute Scramble Match
Bobby Lashley vs Ron Killings vs Shelton Benjamin (c) vs Chavo Guerrero vs Orlando Jordan
Lashley has looked dominating while Shelton Benjamin & Orlando Jordan have gone about the match in a sneaky fashion, trying to stay out of trouble with Ron Killings gunning for a reluctant Chavo Guerrero. Shelton currently holds on to his championship having just pinned Chavo following an axe kick from Killings and tossing him shoulder first in to the ringpost.
ENDING: Shelton stands up with a big smile on his face while Chavo rolls out of the ring to recover on the outside, and as The Gold Standard raises his arms up in to the air celebrating the fall, he remains oblivious to the fact that Bobby Lashley is back up on his feet and stalking him. With the crowd cheering, Shelton seems concerned, and as he turns round, Lashley charges right at him and rips him in half with one hell of a SPEAR. . . . . That brings an almighty cheer from the Lexington faithful as Lashley mops up to make the cover on the current champion with the ref right there to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3. . . . .
Lashley hasn’t just pinned the United States Champion, he’s just become the United States Champion for the time being. He doesn’t seem all that pleased as he stands up, still looking as intense as ever, but sneaking up behind him is the cowardly Orlando Jordan who rolls him up. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Lashley kicks out with force, pushing him away and down to the mat, albeit temporarily. Lashley is right back up and he immediately grabs hold of Jordan and whips him in to the ropes, planting him with a monstrous spinebuster. Jordan rolls around in agony, selling the big impact move from the current champion who’s still not showing any signs of satisfaction. Killings makes his way back up, but so does Chavo on the outside, and the scheming Mexican reaches inside the ring and drags Killings under the bottom rope to the outside. The surprised Killings is helpless as Chavo then whips him right in to the nearby steel steps, creating a deafening thud inside The Rupp Arena. A crafty smile emerges on the face of Guerrero as he looks down at Killings lying on the floor. Chavo then climbs up on to the apron with Lashley totally oblivious as he stands back up after the spinebuster on Jordan, and as he turns round, Chavo flies through the air and sends the big man down to the mat with a MISSILE DROPKICK. . . . . Chavo scurries back across the mat as he looks to pin Lashley. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! An emphatic kick out from Lashley keeps the title on him for now as he races back up to see Jordan squirming. Chavo looks to use the situation to his advantage, dragging him up and levelling him with a BRAINBUSTER. . . . . Jordan looks out of it as Chavo rushes to cover him. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Shelton Benjamin dives across in the knick of time to stop the cover. Both he and Chavo slowly make their way back up alongside each other, but Lashley is also back on his feet, and as Shelton & Chavo turn round, Lashley charges at them and takes them both down to the mat with a double clothesline. That gets a pop from the sell out crowd as Lashley then pulls Shelton up from his knees and plants him with a T-BONE SUPLEX. . . . . Shelton wriggles around in pain as Lashley continues to bring the pain, turning his attention to Chavo as he gets to his feet. Lashley grabs him around the waist from behind and sends him flying back with a FLIPPING RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . The current United States Champion looks to be in total control, and as he spots Jordan slowly getting to his knees, he decides to give OJ a helping hand. He walks over to him and lifts him up in to a MILITARY PRESS. . . . .
Lashley then walks over to the ropes and dumps him on the arena floor. The crowd cheer as Lashley turns back to see the devastation he’s left behind. With both Chavo & Benjamin starting to stir, Lashley has a decision to make as he sets himself up to wreak more havoc, and with Shelton showing more rapid signs of movement, Lashley locks in on him. Shelton doesn’t seem to be totally aware of where he is, and as he turns round, he’s on the receiving end of another spear from the oncoming Bobby Lashley. The crowd seem to be enjoying the sight of The Gold Standard rolling around the canvas clutching his stomach, and as Lashley stands back up, Chavo is doing the same with the aid of the ropes. He then runs right at Chavo, but the quick thinking of Guerrero helps him as he ducks down and pulls the bottom ropes down to send Lashley over the top and down to the floor below. With Benjamin helpless on the mat, Chavo spots his opportunity and he runs in to the corner to climb up all the way to the top. He looks down and grins for a second before leaping through the sky to connect with a FROG SPLASH. . . . . A chorus of boos ring out as Chavo comes crashing down on Shelton’s chest and follows up to hook both legs for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3. . . . .
Chavo Guerrero is the United States Champion for the time being! He sure does look happy with himself as he stands back up and walks over to the ropes, gesturing to the crowd and talking smack while Killings slips back in the ring at the opposite side with Shelton rolling in to the corner. As he stands up, Chavo backs away from the ropes smiling, not having a clue about Killings who takes him by surprise, spinning him round and nailing him with a hard right hand. It knocks Chavo off balance and enables Killings to whip him in to the ropes, and he nails him as he comes back with a CORKSCREW ELBOW SMASH. . . . . That goes down well with the fans as Killings gets back up, followed by Chavo who is met with a hard kick to the gut with Killings turning to the side, running the ropes and coming back to level him with a SCISSOR KICK. . . . . Chavo drops to the mat with Killings following him to make the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3. . . . .
Ron Killings takes the title of United States Champion for the remaining minute or so of the match. As Killings stands back up and stomps Chavo to the apron, Lashley & Killings get back up on the outside with Lashley blocking a right hand from OJ and whipping him in to the ringpost. The focused Lashley then climbs back in to the ring with Killings spotting him and staring at him, not showing any fear at all and looking very determined. The two of them walk towards each other in the centre of the ring with Lashley blocking a right hand and connecting with a couple of his own to put Killings on the back foot. With Killings slightly dazed, Lashley grabs him around the upper chest with both arms and sends him flying back with an OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . With time coming down to around 30 seconds, Lashley realises he doesn’t have time to waste, so he bends down and drags Killings back up, setting him up for THE DOMINATOR. . . . .
As Lashley lifts him up on to his shoulder, Killings shows the desperation to hold on to the title as he wriggles down Lashley’s back to safety and quickly takes him down with a SIDE RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP. . . . . Killings is getting closer and closer and as Chavo looks to be coming round on the apron, he runs towards him and baseball slides him off the apron to the floor below. Killings’ attention switches away from the match for a moment as he looks down with contempt at Chavo while Lashley picks himself back up behind him, and as Killings turns round and steps away from the ropes, Lashley charges at him and tears him in a half with a RIP ROARING SPEAR. . . . . Killings is out of it, but as Lashley is about to make the count, Benjamin races out of the corner and levels him with a sit down dropkick before readjusting his position to cover Killings himself. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3. . . . . Shelton regains the United States Championship with seconds to spare. He quickly slips out of the ring and walks round to pick up his belt as the clock runs out.
WINNER: And still the WWE United States Champion, Shelton Benjamin @ 15.00.
AFTERMATH: “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Me” hits to heat from the crowd as Benjamin grabs the United States Championship from the timekeeper and raises it up in to the air. He looks delighted with himself and brings it down to hold close to his chest, holding on to it for dear life. He then raises it back up in to the air with a big smile on his face as he walks round to the ramp as the ref then joins him on the outside and raises his arm as the winner. He looks back to see Lashley sitting up in absolute frustration, but Shelton just laughs at him, which doesn’t go down well, met with a scowl from the intense Lashley. Nothing is putting a downer on Benjamin’s night as he just back tracks with a big smile on his face, raising his title up in to the air for all to see.
*Video Promo*
From Earlier Today
Shawn Michaels, the World Heavyweight Champion & Michael Shane, the Cruiserweight Champion are shown arriving in the arena with the travel bags in toe as
Maria tries to catch up with them.
Maria: Shawn, have you got a minute?
Michaels looks very focused and carries on walking, seeming as if he’s not even heard Maria, but Shane hears her behind him and turns to Shawn.
Michael Shane: I’ll catch you up in a sec’ cous’.
HBK nods his head and carries on walking as Shane then turns back with Maria walking up to him.
Maria: How is Shawn after The Undertaker tomb stoned him Friday night on Smackdown?
Michael Shane: He’s doin’ fine Maria, he’s just preparing himself emotionally for his match tonight. You’ve got nothin’ to worry about, he’ll be ready for The Undertaker, and not only will he be ready for him, he’ll beat The Undertaker. . . He knows what he’s up against after what happened Friday night, but this is The Heartbreak Kid we’re talkin’ about. Once he gets in that ring tonight and the bell rings. . . BOOM! The show stopper’s gonna take it to The Undertaker and walk out just like he walked in, the World Heavyweight Champion.
Maria: What about your match tonight?
Michael Shane: Maria, just like my cousin, I’m walkin’ in as a champion, and I’m walkin’ out as a champion. It’s that simple toots. . . You have a good night now you hear.
Shane smiles at a glowing Maria before walking back down the hall with his travel bag trailing behind.
*Cut to Ringside*
***Match #4***
WWE Cruiserweight Championship
Michael Shane (c) vs Kid Kash
Michael Shane has looked very impressive, but The Notorious K.I.D. has managed to cheat his way back in to the match.
ENDING: With Shane now on his back, the cocky Kash slowly walks across to him and pulls him back up to his feet. He then whips the Cruiserweight Champion in to the corner and takes a second before running in at him, but he’s in for a shock as Shane fights back by lifting his elbow in to Kash’s face. It sends Kash staggering out of the corner while Shane decides to climb to the top rope with the fans supporting him. Lying in wait for Kash, Shane sees him turn round and dives off for the top to land on to of his opponent with a CROSS BODY. . . . . The ref rushes across and drops to his knees as he counts the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Kash pushes Shane off with both men quickly returning to their feet. Kash runs right at Shane and in to an arm drag takedown, landing by the ropes. As he stands back up against the ropes, Shane runs right at him and clotheslines him over the top to the outside, resulting in a pop from the Lexington fans. It doesn’t take long however for Kash to make his way back up, but Shane is ready and waiting as he turns back to run the ropes, races back and throws himself through them to connect with a SUICIDE DIVE. . . . . Both men hit the floor as the crowd cheer for the fearless Cruiserweight Champion. Shane is first to come round as the ref’s count gets to four, and as he stands back up, he pulls Kash up too and tosses him back in to the ring. He then slips back in himself and walks over to the opposite side of the ring while Kash struggles to his feet.
As he does so, Shane senses the end could be near as he starts to tune up the band with the crowd getting right behind him. Kash looks dazed as he manages to pick himself back up, and once he turns round, Shane explodes out of the corner looking to hit the SWEET SHANE MUSIC. . . . . Kash sees it coming though and ducks his head, and as Shane stops dead and turns back round, Kash stomps him in the gut and pulls Shane’s head under his arm, setting him up for the BRAINBUSTER DDT. . . . . It could be lights out for the Cruiserweight Champion, but as Kash lifts him vertically up in to the air, Shane counters straight away, slipping down the back of Kash and grabbing him around the waist to plant him with a BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . Shane holds on tight as the ref hurries across to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Kash just gets his shoulder up to keep his title hopes alive, and there’s a slight hint of frustration on Shane’s face as he sits up and looks disappointedly at the referee. He shrugs it off as he stands back up and runs in to the corner while Kash remains flat on his back. There’s no sign of any flies on Shane as he makes his way up top before then leaping off for a DIVING ELBOW DROP. . . . . As Shane comes down out of the sky with his elbow reaching out, Kash comes alive and rolls to the side with Shane crash landing on the canvas. Now both men are down and the crowd try to will Shane on, clapping and stomping their feet. They both start to make their way back up at the same time while looking groggy, and as they turn to face each other, Kash throws a right hand at the champion, but Shane blocks it and follows up with a hard kick to the gut. He then turns back to run the ropes, but as he runs back, Kash shoots back to life by jumping up in to the air and connecting with a HURRICANRANA. . . . . It takes both Shane and the crowd by surprise with Kash looking to take advantage with the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Shane just kicks out with Kash looking shell shocked. He turns to the referee and starts yelling at him, but the ref stands his ground as they both stand up and get in each other’s face. Kash is livid, but as he sees Shane getting to his knees, he turns his attention back to the match and drives his boot viciously in to the ribcage of the Cruiserweight Champion, putting Shane’s recovery on hold. The ruthless challenger now shifts round to Shane’s legs and turns him over on to his back, allowing him to lock in an elevated Boston crab, KASH ON DELIVERY. . . . . Shane’s face tells the story as he winces in pain as Kash puts him through some serious torture while the fans try to encourage Shane by clapping continuously.
The resilient champion starts to put up a real fight, trying to drag himself across the mat as Kash holds on for dear life with a look of utter determination on his face. The crowd get louder as Shane pulls himself closer and closer to the bottom rope and safety with Kash starting to panic, and with one brave push, Shane throws his arm forward to grab hold of the bottom rope. A big pop echoes around The Rupp Arena as the ref tells Kash to let the hold go, which he only does at the count of four with utter frustration. Shane looks relieved and tired as he drags the rest of his body closer to the apron. Kash tries to pull him back, but Shane clutches on to the rope for dear life and eventually kicks him away with force, pushing him back and down to the mat.
That doesn’t go down well with the clearly irate Kash as he stands back up and walks across to Shane. The champ uses the ropes to help himself back up, and as Kash walks up to him, Shane drives his boot in to Kash’s chest, sending him back pedalling once again. Shane takes a brief breather before running at Kash, but he ducks Shane’s outstretched arm and spins him round in to a kick to the stomach. Kash then sets him up for a pump handle, but once he lifts Shane up, the champion slides down to safety and lands on his knees a couple of feet away. Kash is shocked, and just as he turns round, Shane rises up and reacts by nailing him with the SWEET SHANE MUSIC. . . . . Kash just collapses to the mat with Shane falling on top of him for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNER: By pinfall, and still the Cruiserweight Champion, Michael Shane @ 10.37.
AFTERMATH: Shane’s music hits to a pop from the crowd as he slowly gets back up to his feet to get his arm raised by the referee as well as being passed his Cruiserweight Championship belt after a hard fought victory. He walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, lifting the belt up to pose and celebrate for the appreciative crowd. He turns and steps down while breathing heavily and showing the effects of the match as he leaves the ring and walks up the ramp, still the Cruiserweight Champion.
*Cut Backstage*
A very focused
MVP is lacing up his boots in his locker room with the Money in the Bank briefcase sitting right alongside him on the bench when we hear the door open and close. MVP doesn’t look too happy as we then see a smug looking
CM Punk walk towards him, causing MVP to stand up as boos ring out in the arena.
CM Punk: Hey, how you doin’? I just thought I’d stop by and see how you’re feelin’ ‘bout losin’ that briefcase tonight you worked so hard for at Wrestlemania.
MVP has contempt in his eyes as the smug Punk just looks back at him without a care in the world.
CM Punk: I bet you’re feelin’ pretty bad about yourself now for hittin’ Matt, Burke and even me with that (looking at the briefcase) now huh? . . . I’ll tell you what though, you shouldn’t worry about them takin’ that from ya tonight, you should worry about the one man who can and will steal it away from ya. . . me, CM Punk. You can forget all about those two clowns, but I’ll tell you what, I’ll give ya some credit. You’re a smart guy, and since you look like you ain’t slept for two nights, you probably know that I’m the one you have to watch out for tonight. You and everyone else know that I’m on a whole other level to not just Matt Hardy and Elijah Burke, but everyone else in this company. That’s why you’re powerless to stop what’s gonna go down tonight. (Looks towards the briefcase again) I’m gonna take that contract and prove to the entire world that CM Punk is the future of this business, and you know what I like even more about all this? With that contract in my possession, no one and I mean no one will be able to deny it.
MVP is clearly full of rage and it comes out despite trying to keep it in.
MVP: Yeah? You wanna know what you’re takin’ tonight? . . . Nothin’. You ain’t takin’ nothin’ but another shot to the head with the briefcase I’ll be holdin’ on to thank you very much. (He picks up the case) Ain’t you or anyone takin’ this away from me. You got that? It’s mine an’ I’m holdin’ on to it, an’ soon enough, you’re gonna be lookin’ at Montel Vontavious Porter, the World Heavyweight Champion.
MVP pushes his way past Punk, but The Straight Edge Superstar just smirks, reeking of self confidence.
*Video Recap*
Last Friday night on Smackdown and CM Punk walking to the ring to stop The VIP Lounge with MVP then coming out and arguing with CM Punk before Matt Hardy & Elijah Burke came out to join in, leading to a tag match being agreed only for MVP to level Matt, Burke and then Punk with his Money in the Bank briefcase. Tazz then coming out to the stage and informing everyone that the two singles matches between Burke & MVP, Matt & Punk will be put together in a fatal fourway for the Money in the Bank briefcase at Judgment Day, making MVP very unhappy.
*Cut to Ringside*
***Match #5***
Money in the Bank Contract On The Line
Elijah Burke w/Layla vs Matt Hardy vs CM Punk vs Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)
Matt Hardy & Elijah Burke have worked well together while CM Punk & MVP fail to get along altogether.
ENDING: With Matt on the outside and CM Punk still down on the mat, Burke & MVP make their way up to a vertical base with Burke unloading with a couple of hard right hands, putting MVP on the back foot. He then grabs Porter by the wrist and whips him in to the ropes, and as MVP comes back off, he runs right in to a LIFTING SPINNING SIT DOWN SPINEBUSTER. . . . . That gets quite a pop from the fans as well as an enthusiastic applause from Layla on the outside as Burke holds on for the cover attempt. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Punk dives across just in time to stop the count, landing on top of Burke and forcing him on to his side. It takes them a short time before they are able to stand up, and it’s Punk who strikes first with a series of martial arts kicks. He then switches gears and tries for an irish whip, but it’s reversed by Burke who nails Punk as he comes back with a perfect standing dropkick that is met with a pop from the crowd. Both men are back up fairly quickly with Burke up first and turning back to run the ropes, and as he runs back, he sends Punk right back down again with a flying shoulder tackle. Burke is on a role, and as he stands up looking very focused with Punk following, he grabs his opponent by the arm and whips him hard in to the corner with Punk hitting the pads chest first. The Straight Edge Superstar remains slumped against them as Burke turns to the crowd and smiles, sensing an opportunity.
He then pulls his knee pads down to his ankles before charging at Punk and jumping up at his back, driving his knees in to his spine for THE ELIJAH EXPRESS. . . . . As Burke back tracks out of the corner, Punk falls to the mat, but Burke’s in for a shock as Layla fails in trying to warn him that MVP is right back up and approaching right behind him. The oblivious Burke is then spun round by Mr. Money in the Bank who kicks him in the gut and sets him up for THE PLAYMAKER. . . . . Porter takes his time, looking smugly in to the crowd as Matt Hardy re-enters the ring to MVP’s left. Matt pulls him away from Burke and in to place for the TWIST OF FATE. . . . . The crowd go nuts, and Matt doesn’t mess about like MVP and drives him down face first in to the canvas. A massive pop breaks out as Matt turns over and hooks both legs. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Burke breaks it up by pulling Matt off of MVP by his feet. Matt stands up and stares right at Burke, asking him what he was doing despite it being painfully obvious. Burke points at the briefcase and makes his point clear, but Matt’s obviously annoyed his chance to win the contract was taken away from him and shoves Burke with the ever appealing Layla looking worried on the outside. The former boxer shakes his head, pointing out Matt shouldn’t have done that before levelling him with a vicious right hand, but Matt fights back with one of his own as they start to exchange blows. Burke comes out on top, landing three in a row before trying for an irish whip, but Matt reverses the whip and pulls Burke right in to him. He swiftly kicks him in the stomach and plants him with a SIDE EFFECT. . . . . The fans cheer as Matt rushes back up to his feet and runs in to the corner, where he climbs up to the second rope. With Burke at his mercy, he dives off and connects with a leg drop. That also gets a pop from the crowd as Matt looks to go for the cover straight away with the ref rushing to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No, Burke gets his shoulder up to the relief of Layla. As Matt stands back up, he sees Punk is making an attempt to do the same in the opposite corner. Punk is struggling slightly and he stares intensely right at Matt with the bitter rivals then glaring at each other. Matt’s feeling pretty good as he charges at Punk and nails him with a clothesline, holding on to his head as he then turns himself round and runs out of the corner to take Punk down with a bulldog. The crowd continue to cheer Matt as he puts a hurting on Punk. Matt picks himself right back up on his feet and urges Punk up, and boy does Matt look pumped. He’s ready to explode as Punk gets to his knees, totally unaware of the fate awaiting him, and as he stands up straight, Matt levels him with a kick to the gut and pulls him in to place for the TWIST OF FATE. . . . . Matt roars in to the crowd, but as he spins round, Punk slips out of his grasp. Matt panics and turns round in to a desperate Punk who nails him with a thunderous ENZIGURI. . . . . Both men hit the deck with Punk crawling across the mat to turn Matt on to his back and try for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Shoulder up! A massive cheer breaks out as Matt lifts his shoulder up to the absolute shock of CM Punk. He looks utterly gobsmacked as he sits up and stares down with utter contempt for Matt. He eventually stands up with evil intentions in mind, but as he bends down to pull Matt up, he sees MVP getting to his knees. Punk switches targets and lets go of Matt, leaving him flat out on the canvas, walking instead to MVP and pulling him up from his knees. Looking totally focused, Punk attempts to lift him on to his shoulder for the GO TO SLEEP. . . . . MVP doesn’t let that happen as he slips down Punk’s back straight away, and as both men turn round to face each other, Porter hits him with a capoeira kick.
Punk slumps down slightly while clutching his chest, but MVP doesn’t let him recover, grabbing him around the upper chest and tossing him behind instantly with a SNAP OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . That brings a mixed reception from the crowd, but with Burke squirming, MVP sets his sights on him, also looking very focused on the job in hand. Burke is able to make his own way up to his knees with MVP standing by, ready to strike. And as Burke just about gets to his feet, MVP kicks him in the gut and sets him up for THE PLAYMAKER. . . . . And this time he hits it. Burke is out of it, and MVP thinks the time is now as he hooks the leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Matt Hardy comes to the rescue, diving across on top of MVP. The relief in the crowd and Layla’s face is there for all to see as all four men remain down and out, completely exhausted from the back and forth match. MVP & Matt are the first two men to stir, and as MVP gets to his feet, he looks down in complete anger at Matt for costing him the chance to win moments ago and reaches down to grab him, but Matt catches him off guard by pulling him in to a SMALL PACKAGE. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Kick out! MVP just escapes there, and as he and Matt get back up to their feet reasonably quickly, Matt ducks a wild right hand from Mr. Money in the Bank and whips him hard in to the corner with MVP’s back crashing in to the pads. He then staggers out of the corner in obvious pain with Matt taking advantage, kicking him in the stomach and planting him with the TWIST OF FATE. . . . . For the second time in the match, Matt connects with his finisher on MVP, but before he can go for the cover, Punk has come back to life, sneaking his way up behind Matt. Punk takes him by surprise as he then pulls him up to his feet and connects with the GTS. . . . . Matt’s head just got dropped on to Punk’s knee, and The Straight Edge Superstar goes for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNER: CM Punk by pinfall @ 16.29.
AFTERMATH: “This Fire Burns” hits to heat from the crowd as the smug CM Punk stands back up and gets his arm raised by the referee. He then turns to see the Money in the Bank briefcase resting on the apron and walks over to collect his new possession. He bends down and picks it up, staring at it with a smug smile on his face for several seconds before lifting it up in to the air to a ton of heat from the Kentucky crowd. He just shrugs it off and climbs through the ropes as Layla slips inside to check on Burke as he comes round, not totally sure of where he is. Punk walks up the ramp with a massive smile on his face as he continues to look at the briefcase.
*Cut Backstage*
Shawn Michaels is walking down the hall, still looking very low key as he holds on to a bottle of water. As he turns a corner, he bumps in to
“The Rated R Superstar” Edge. It looks as if Christmas Day has come early for Edge judging by his expression.
Edge: Whoa Shawn, you’re here. I’ve gotta say I’m impressed. After I saw what The Undertaker did to you Friday night, I thought you’d have chickened your way out of this one, but I’ll give you credit, you’re gonna tough it out the hard way before you lose the world title tonight.
Michaels just stares blankly at Edge, keeping very cool.
Edge: What’s wrong Shawn? Cat got your tongue, or could it be the pain you’re feeling thanks to The Undertaker driving you in to the canvas the other night? . . . See I know how that feels, but you know that. You know I’ve been on the shelf ever since he sent me crashing through the announce table and got the chance I desperately wanted to face you here tonight to take back what’s mine. . . But you know what Shawn? My time will come just like your time has come to an end. I’m gonna get my shot whether you’re champ or not, and between you and me, I think we both know your luck has run out. . . There’s no need to look so down on yourself Shawn because there is something you can look forward to tonight, and that’s the return of The Cutting Edge, and trust me, I have a huge surprise in store for the whole world. But once you’ve seen my surprise come to life in front of your very eyes, lost your title to The Undertaker, packed your bags and gone home crying to your wife and kids, I’m gonna enjoy the moment. And you wanna know why Shawn? . . . I’m never gonna forget how you embarrassed me at Wrestlemania, beating me on the big stage, and that’s why I can’t wait to see your career come to an end tonight, ‘cos once you’ve lost the World Heavyweight Championship, you career is effectively over. I mean what else have you got left to do around here apart from hog the limelight some more? . . .
Shawn just explodes with fury.
Shawn Michaels: ARE YOU DONE? YOU WANNA GET ANYTHIN’ ELSE OUT OF YOUR SYSTEM? . . . Go on, let’s hear it. I bet it’s nothin’ I’ve not already heard a thousand times before.
Edge looks slightly shocked by the outburst.
Shawn Michaels: You wanna talk about Mania? Lets. . . I gave it everything I had that night to keep the world championship around my waist, and as god as my witness I’m gonna do the exact same thing tonight to do whatever it takes to beat The Undertaker and walk out on out of here as the World Champion. I beat you at Mania and I’m gonna beat The Undertaker tonight. But if you want one more piece of HBK, then I’ll happily kick your head off that scrawny body of yours one more time.
Edge tries to act cool as Michaels glares at him before walking out of the shot, but it’s clear that Edge isn’t as cool as he makes out.
*Video Recap*
Last Friday night and The UK Pack being jumped in the parking lot as they arrived with Chris Masters slamming the car door on Burchill’s arm. Later on in the night and Harry Smith storming in to the arena, only for Tazz to tell him to wait for Judgment Day when his partner is there.
*Cut to Ringside*
***Match #6***
WWE Tag Team Championship
The UK Pack (c) vs The Masters of the Mat
The UK Pack have let their anger get to them with The Masters of the Mat taking advantage of their over enthusiasm while using some cheap double team antics on several occasions.
ENDING: The Masterpiece has been working on Burchill’s right arm for a while now, applying an arm bar with Burchill lying on the mat. Masters has even driven his knee in to it on a couple of occasions to put a real hurting on one half of the champions. With the arm bar locked in, Masters shows no signs of letting up as Burchill appears to be in agony, screaming out occasionally as Masters adds more pressure, but with Smith and the crowd getting behind him, Burchill starts to use every last bit of energy he has to escape the hold. He manages to get up to his knees and then his feet as the crowd increase their encouragement, leading to Burchill freeing himself by sending Masters down with a hip toss. That clearly hurts Burchill as he shakes his right arm that is supported with a cast.
Masters is right back up though, but he walks in to a weaker left hand from Burchill who follows up with a kick to the midsection that sends The Masterpiece down to his knees. The tough Brit then shows his anger towards Masters by driving his huge boot in to Masters’ face, knocking him down to the mat before turning round and walking in to his corner to tag in Harry Smith. The son of the legendary British Bulldog enters the ring to a big pop as Masters sits up looking dazed following the big boot. Smith picks him right back up before sending him right back down again with a hard scoop slam. Masters sits up straight away due to the pain in his back with the pain written all over his face. Smith grins at the sight of Masters in agony before kicking him in the chest to force him on to his back.
He then continues the attack by dropping a stern elbow in to Masters’ chest, and as Smith stands back up, he yells down at Smith, urging him to get up. There’s a definite intensity in The UK Pack tonight that we’ve not seen from them before as Burchill watches on from the apron, and it’s clear he’s not totally comfortable while Haas looks concerned. Smith reaches down and pulls Masters up from his knees and places the head of The Masterpiece under his arm before lifting him up in the air for a DELAYED VERTICAL SUPLEX. . . . . The strength of Smith is evident as he keeps the big man up there for almost ten seconds before falling back and bringing Masters crashing down to earth with a bang. Smith turns himself round on the mat as he then looks to cover his opponent. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Haas enters the ring and pulls Smith off of his partner by his feet, but as Smith stands back up, he walks right at Haas with the referee trying to get between them straight away to prevent any trouble. Smith stares angrily at Haas while the referee ushers Haas back to the apron, but as Smith then back tracks, Masters gets to his knees and stands back up to club him across the back, sending Smith to his knees momentarily. The Masterpiece then pulls him back up and plants him with a FULL NELSON SLAM. . . . . He then makes the short walk to his corner to tag in the mat technician, Charlie Haas. He races through the ropes to make a cover on Smith as the ref makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
It’s a relatively comfortable kick out for Smith, but Haas means business, sitting Smith up before levelling him with a stiff kick across the spine. Smith screams from that one, and gasps are heard from the concerned Lexington fans. Haas drops to his knees and sits Smith up again to apply a chin lock, trying to keep the big guy grounded for a while and suck the energy out of him. The fans again get behind the champions and try to encourage a response, and they get it. Smith raises his right arm up on to the air with Haas starting to panic, and he has every right to do so as Smith manages to pull himself up to his knees and then his feet before falling back and planting him with a side suplex. Both men then struggle to their feet with Haas walking right in to Smith’s grasp and a NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX. . . . . With Smith holding on for a cover, the ref shifts himself and rushes across to make a count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Haas turns to the side and gets his shoulder off the mat to stop the count, but Smith picks himself back up looking very intense and focused as he reaches down and pulls Haas back up. He scoops him on to his shoulder and turns round to run across the ring for the RUNNING POWERSLAM. . . . . But as he gets halfway across the ring, Haas slips down to safety, and as Smith manages to hit the breaks, Haas plants him out of nowhere with the OLYMPIC SLAM. . . . . This one could be over, and Burchill looks concerned as Haas scurries back across to the mat to hook Smith’s leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Smith just got his shoulder up, and the fans are relieved, as is Burchill who breathes a huge sigh of relief on the apron with Masters shell shocked on the opposite side. He’s not as shocked as Haas however as he pulls himself back up to his knees and stares at the referee in amazement. He shakes his head and doesn’t seem to know what to do before standing back up and walking round to Smith’s legs. He then grabs them and lifts them up to try to turn him over, but Smith fights back and uses the power in his legs to push Haas back and down to the mat. That gets a big cheer from the crowd, and both men slowly pick themselves back up with Haas turning in to a kick to the gut from Smith. Haas slumps down slightly with Smith then pulling Haas’s head between his legs and lifting him up above his head before bringing him crashing down to the mat with a SIT DOWN POWERBOMB. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Haas stuns Smith this time by getting his shoulder up to the relief of Masters. Smith is clearly disappointed, but he makes his way back up and urges Haas to do the same, but Masters doesn’t allow him to do any further damage as he climbs through the ropes while Haas gets to his knees. Smith takes his eyes off of Haas and walks across to The Masterpiece, squaring up to him with the referee walking over and trying to get Masters to leave the ring, which he does. But with the ref’s back turned, Smith turns round in to a low blow from Haas that sends the Brit down to the mat with one of the worst feelings imaginable.
Haas grins as he picks himself back up and walks in to his corner to tag in the smug Masters. The man with the chiselled body climbs through the ropes looking extremely confident as he takes his time in strutting across and behind the squirming Smith. As Smith tries to pick himself up in front of his opponent, Masters gets ready to apply his deadly submission move, THE MASTERLOCK. . . . . The fans boo and then try to warn Smith, as does Burchill, shouting across the ring, but it’s futile as Masters pounces on him. However, before he can get it fully locked in, Smith uses his strength to fight back, doing everything he can to prevent Masters getting all of it. A battle of strength ensues, and Smith seems to be winning it.
He manages to push his weight back and powers back with Masters being rammed in to the corner with Smith able to free himself. With the fans cheering as Smith walks out of the corner, he then turns round as Masters runs out of the corner in to a back body drop. Smith falls to his knees with fatigue playing its part, but he is able to pick himself back up and get to his corner to tag in Burchill. He climbs through the ropes to a big pop as Masters makes his way back up. Burchill runs at him with Masters trying to hit a clothesline, but Burchill ducks it and takes him down with a JUMPING NECKBREAKER. . . . . Burchill rushes across to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Boos ring out as Haas makes the save, racing in to the ring and pulling Burchill off his partner at the last second. The ref isn’t happy at all, and neither is Smith as he gets back in the ring and walks across to Haas with the ref trying to get between them as Burchill looks on as Masters coming round. Burchill walks over and tries to get at Haas too, but as he then turns back, Masters pulls himself back up and tries to kick Burchill in the groin, but the Englishman grabs his foot. Masters looks worried as Burchill then spins him round and lets go, and as Masters spins back to face him, Burchill SMASHES HIM IN THE FACE WITH HIS CAST. . . . . Masters just falls in a heap as Haas tries to point it out to the referee with Burchill shaking his arm before dropping to his knees, and as the ref turns round to count the fall, Smith prevents Haas stopping the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNERS: By pinfall, and still the WWE Tag Team Champions, The UK Pack @ 14.30.
AFTERMATH: “Britannia” hits to a big pop from the fans as Haas continues his protest. While Smith goes to congratulate Burchill with a guy hug and share their relief, Haas tries to tell the referee what happened, but he has none of it as he walks over to the ropes to collect the tag titles. He continues to ignore Haas and walks back to hand The UK Pack their belts as well as raising their arms in the air. Haas is pissed as Smith & Burchill just grin back at him as they turn round and leave the ring laughing with the fans. Masters isn’t moving as Haas checks on his partner while shaking his head.
***Video Promo***
Clips of classic King of the Ring moments are shown, such as Bret Hart winning the first tournament in 1993, followed by Owen Hart in ’94 and being crowned. It then shows Stonecold Steve Austin’s famous 3:16 quote from 1996, Triple H winning a year later and Kurt Angle’s victory in 2000, and ending with Edge’s in 2001.
Voiceover: For years, there have been only memories. . . For years, we have seen superstars grow in front of our eyes. . . Many of these moments stem from one glorious night. . . The King of the Ring. . . However, once again, this special night will create memories, champions and hall of famers. . . The King of the Ring returns to the WWE calendar very soon.
*Cut to Ringside*
“Metalingus” blasts out as
“The Rated R Superstar” Edge walks down to the ring looking very pleased with himself, dressed in jeans and a t-shirt with the ring set up for The Cutting Edge, getting a lot of heat from the fans. He gets in to the ring and picks up a microphone left one of the two stools.
Edge: Ladies and gentleman, as of now The Rated R Superstar is officially back.
*Heat*
Edge: Oh no. I promise you, you are going to love this. When I said I had a huge surprise in store, I wasn’t kiddin’, and quite frankly people I’m a little disappointed that you still show me the same disrespect despite the fact I have promised you the biggest ever edition of The Cutting Edge. . . See, I know that this isn’t just going to be the highlight of your night, it’s gonna be the highlight of every single one of your crappy, worthless, meaningless lives. I always pride myself on never disappointing, and I guarantee you I won’t be disappointing anyone tonight, unlike Shawn Michaels when he loses more than his marbles like he did earlier on.
*Heat*
Edge: Don’t get your hopes up because deep down we all know that there’s no chance he’s leaving this hole the World Champion tonight. There’s more chance of you people finally realising that your father and grandfather are the same person.
*Heat*
Edge: Anyway, back to the business in hand, and for the last six weeks or so I’ve been laid up at home recovering from an injury I got thanks to The Undertaker, and despite the fact I could do next to nothing, I received a very interesting phone call. I got a call that’s gonna change the landscape of Smackdown as we know it. It doesn’t matter who’s the World Champion when tonight’s all said and done because I guarantee that they won’t be at the top of the tree for very long. . . See the person who called me told me something very interesting, and the moment he told me his news, I realised just how big this was going to be. I knew that this was going to be the biggest moment in Smackdown history, the moment all of you turn to the person standing next to you in ten years time and ask “do you remember where you were the night Edge pulled that out of the bag?”. . . I assure you that you won’t need reminding where you were or what you saw because as of tonight, Smackdown will never be the same again. You can forget all this crap about how Chris Jericho is coming back to Smackdown this week and whoever else, because I, The Rated R Superstar have arranged the most shocking return the WWE will ever see. You’re about to witness the long overdue return of the greatest double act this business has and will ever see. You’re about to witness the return of the man who alongside yours truly, dominated the tag team division for years and years and made the TLC match famous. Ladies and gentleman, I give to you, the latest addition to the Smackdown roster. . . MY BROTHER, CHRISTIAN.
*Big Pop*
“If You Close Your Eyes” hits to a very strong pop as
Christian walks down to the ring with a big smile on his face, dressed in jeans and a shirt. He climbs up the steps then the apron and grins in to the welcoming crowd before climbing through the ropes and hugging his brother, which doesn’t go down that well. He then picks up the other microphone before getting himself comfortable on the other stool.
Edge: Bro, it’s great to see ya back in a WWE ring.
Christian: What can I say? It’s great to be back.
Edge: Now before you all get excited, I think it’s best to let you know right away that there’s not going to be a five second pose or anything like that. We’re way past that crap now, we’re stars and we don’t need to please the likes of you anymore.
*Heat*
Christian: Ouch.
Edge: I know that there’s so much you all want to know about my little brother and what he’s been up to, but due to my creative control here, it’ll be me asking the questions and no one else. So I suggest you sit down and listen up. . . So Christian, for the benefit of these people, can you tell us just what you’ve been up to since you left the WWE two and a half years ago?
Christian: (Jokingly) I don’t know. I’m sure they remember I’m a little shy.
Edge chuckles.
Christian: Oh what the hell. . . Well it might interest you to know that I’ve been in a couple of movies. . .
Edge: . . . Starred!
Christian: Sorry,
starred in a couple of movies. . . I’ve travelled the world wrestling for different companies, and even won a few big titles, not that I wanna toot my own horn or anythin’ like that.
Edge: You hear that folks? My little brother has won title after title just like me while he’s been away. . . So I assume you’ve been watching the WWE and your big brother rise to the top of the ladder?
Christian: (Jokingly) Weren’t we supposed to be talking about me?
Edge: Well we’ve got plenty of time for that, but what I think everyone wants to know is just what brings back you back to the homeland of the WWE?
Christian: An easy one, thanks bro. . . Well that’s pretty easy. I’ve come back to do what I was about to before I took some time out, and that’s join you at the top of the ladder. . .
Edge: . . . That’s what I wanna hear. Me and my baby brother together once again with him helping me become the World Heavyweight Champion one more time. . . See I told you all that I’d be the world. . .
Christian looks confused.
Christian: . . . Hold up. That’s why you thought I’ve come back, to help you win the World Heavyweight Championship?
Edge: Well what else did you expect?
Christian stands up.
Christian: I hate to disappoint you bro, but that’s not it at all. . . Let me get this straight, you really think I came back to stand next to you and hold your belt again like all those years ago? ‘Cos I gotta say
bro, that ain’t happ’nin’.
Edge is confused and a little angry as he stands up.
Edge: What you talkin’ bout? I brought you back so you could help me. . .
Christian: . . . Well maybe that’s somethin’ you should have told me, ‘cos with no disrespect Adam, I’ve come back here to be a world champion myself not do your dirty work. I’ve been all the way across the globe as a world champion the last couple of years, and I’ve not come back here to bend down and kiss anyone’s ass. . . If anything bro, you should be the one to step aside and let nature take its course, ‘cos whether you like it or not, I will become the World Heavyweight Champion.
*Big Pop*
Edge: You know what? I forgot how funny you were. That cracked me up.
Christian: Well to me, it looks like the joke’s on you ‘cos I’m not bluffin’. I will be the World Champion with or without your support.
Edge: You’re serious? You think where you’ve been even comes to close to what this is all about? Let me tell you somethin’ C, you might have been a world champion in that two bit company you’ve been workin’ for, but this is the big leagues. This is where the real heavy hitters play, and the reason you left is because you’re weren’t up to it. And from where I’m standin’, nothin’s changed.
Christian: Oh but it has Adam. Things have changed. I’m not a pushover anymore. I’m not known as Edge’s brother. I’m not the man who sleeps with his best friend’s girlfriend. I’m not the man who celebrated a win by sleepin’ with a hooker on live television, and I’m sure as hell not what you’ve become. . . a selfish jackass. I’m an individual, a better person while you’ve become everything I hate in a human being. I’ve had to sit back and watch while you turn in to someone I despise, and I don’t need your approval anymore. You might think I’m not up to the test, but I guarantee you that I’m back and better than ever before. I will climb to the top of this company even if that means nudging by big brother off the ladder to get there.
*Pop*
Edge: YOU SELFISH SON OF A BITCH. I’D NEVER BETRAY MY BROTHER. . .
Christian: . . . Whoa, calm down, I’m only playin’ around like the good old days. You should see your face.
Edge barely grins as he doesn’t look too convinced, and Christian doesn’t look convincing himself.
Christian: Hey come on, give your brother a hug.
There’s some clear tension between them but they hug tentatively hug, but Edge pulls back and kicks Christian in the gut. Christian drops to his knees and holds his chest with both men dropping their microphones as Edge backs up in to the corner, stalking his brother for the spear. As Christian stands back up, Edge charges at him, but Christian sidesteps it with Edge stopping himself and turning round with Christian then planting him with The Killswitch. A huge pop breaks out as Christian looks down in disgust at his brother with
“If You Just Close Your Eyes” playing once again. After a good ten seconds of looking down at his brother, Christian walks over to the ropes and poses for the crowd before leaving the ring and walking up the ramp. He turns round and looks in to the crowd as Edge starts to come round, and he doesn’t look happy as he stares angrily at his brother, who just grins back at him.
*Video Promo*
*Video Recap*
- The Undertaker beating Edge by count out following a chokeslam through the announce table on the first Smackdown after Wrestlemania to become the number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship.
- Four weeks ago with The Undertaker teaming up with Shawn Michaels to take on The Masters of the Mat, ending in Masters hitting the dead man from behind with a steel chair, leading to Taker thinking it was Michaels before chokeslamming the World Champion.
- A week later with Michaels explaining himself and Taker confronting him only for Tazz to come out and make a match between Taker & Masters for later on.
- The match between Taker & Masters with Michaels rushing down to help Taker from being blasted with a steel chair, only to steal it and hit Taker after Masters ducked the shot.
- Last Friday and Michaels telling everyone how he respects The Undertaker but he wants to beat him more than anything.
- The main event from Friday with Michaels being pushed in to Taker and then being chokeslammed, costing them the match.
The aftermath with Michaels confronting Taker, only to be on the receiving end of a tombstone with Taker then posing at the end of the show.
*Cut to Ringside*
***The Main Event***
World Heavyweight Championship
Shawn Michaels (c) vs The Undertaker
The Undertaker has been on top of his game, taking the match to Michaels, who has been fighting for his life, giving it everything he has got.
ENDING: With Taker in control of the match, the phenom makes his way over to the fallen, battered body of Shawn Michaels. He reaches down and pulls the worn out looking World Champion up to his feet, but as he throws a right hand at him, Michaels shows his resilience and blocks it before firing back at the dead man with a series of jabs to the jaw. He then tries for an irish whip, but Taker reverses it easily and sends Michaels running in to the ropes. As HBK comes back though, he throws himself at his challenger and takes him down with a LOU THESZ PRESS. . . . .
The World Champion shows his spirit and desire as he drives his fist repeatedly in to the skull of The Undertaker with the fans cheering The Heartbreak Kid on. As he stands back up, closely followed by the dead man, Michaels picks him up and drops him down with an inverted atomic drop. As Taker hobbles around for a couple of seconds, Michaels turns back and keeps the pace going as he runs the ropes, but as he comes back at the dead man, he runs right in to a SIDEWALK SLAM. . . . . Taker took Michaels down with force there with his back being slammed down viciously in to the mat, and with Michaels looking in pain, the challenger decides to go for a cover, hooking the right leg as the ref then makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Michaels lifts his shoulder up but is clearly suffering as he rolls on to his side with the challenger closely checking his condition. The Undertaker makes his way back up to his feet and bends back down to drag the ailing champion back up to his before whipping him in to the corner. Michaels hits the pads hard and back first with Taker then following to nail him with a hard clothesline. He then whips Shawn in to the opposite corner and follows in to connect with another vicious clothesline. Taker backs out of the corner with Shawn then staggering out, leading to Taker turning back and running in to the ropes. And as he comes back, he looks to drive his huge boot down the champion’s throat, but Michaels ducks it with Taker then turning round in to a SUPER KICK OUT OF NOWHERE. . . . . A massive cheer breaks out as Taker falls to the mat by the ropes with the tired Heartbreak Kid following, dropping down thanks to sheer exhaustion. Michaels isn’t all there as he hooks Taker’s closest leg with the ref counting the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Taker lifts his right foot on to the bottom rope to prevent defeat. It takes a couple of seconds for Michaels to sit up, and the clearly exhausted champion crawls towards the middle of the ring as Taker picks himself up by the ropes and the corner. As both men stand up, Taker turns with his back to the corner while Michaels gives it everything he can by charging at the dead man and hitting a STINGER SPLASH. . . . . The World Champion then climbs up to the second rope and starts unloading with some weary right hands to Taker’s head as the fans count the punches out loud. But as he gets to six, Taker responds and grabs Shawn around the top of the legs as he walks out of the corner with Michaels hoisted high in the air before being sent crashing down to earth with THE LAST RIDE. . . . . Michaels is motionless on the mat as Taker drops to his knees and shimmies across to go for a pin attempt with the ref rushing to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Michaels fights on by just lifting his shoulder up. The crowd go crazy as the stunned challenger sits up and gazes down at the beaten up body of Shawn Michaels. The phenom then stands back up, sensing the end is near as he brings his arm across his neck, signalling for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER. . . . . That gets a mixed reception with the crowd split between both men, but Michaels looks to be in real trouble as he valiantly tries to stand up, struggling to keep his balance as he makes it to his feet. With the phenom waiting right behind him, the oblivious World Champion turns round to face his challenger who then scoops him up on to his shoulder, but as Taker tries to bring him down his chest, Michaels wriggles free and slips down his back, sweeping Taker’s feet in the process. The desperate champion then grabs hold of Taker’s legs again and turns him on to his back to try and lock in the SHARPSHOOTER. . . . .
A big pop with some boos breaks out as Shawn desperately tries to stitch in the hold, but Taker fights back and powers out, kicking Michaels back and down by the ropes. Both men then make their way back up to their feet, and as Shawn gets up by the ropes, the dead man runs at him looking to clothesline him over the top, but he ducks and holds the rope down with Taker falling to the outside. With the crowd cheering, Michaels spends several seconds leaning against the ropes to get his breath back, but he doesn’t have long as Taker starts to rise once again. Michaels watches on and holds on to the top rope, and as Taker gets to his feet, HBK comes to life and goes for a SLINGSHOT CROSS BODY. . . . . As Michaels comes through the air, Taker reaches out and catches the champion, then turns round and runs at the ringpost, driving Michaels’ spine in to the solid steel. The impact is heard as well as a brief outpouring of pain from the beat up World Champion.
The Undertaker takes a couple of steps back as he lets go of Michaels and drops him on to the floor for another hard bump for HBK to take. The camera zooms in on the utter anguish the show stopper is feeling, but the dead man has no sympathy whatsoever as he lifts him back up and places him on the apron, lying him across it as he then climbs back up and walks across it, getting ready for a GUILLOTINE LEG DROP. . . . . Michaels isn’t in much of a position to defend himself as Taker sets off across the apron and connects with the leg drop. Michaels just falls back down to the floor, and there’s no significant sign of life from him as Taker sits on the apron and takes a moment to recharge his batteries while looking in to the crowd and then back down at the battered body of The Heartbreak Kid. The refreshed dead man (funny!) decides to get back on with the match as he lowers his feet to the floor and drags Michaels back up and rests him on the apron before pushing him back inside. Shawn then crawls across the ring of his own accord as Taker climbs back up on to the apron and then through the ropes.
He walks over to Michaels, who turns round and slowly drags himself up Taker’s legs, and the dead man signals for the end once again. As he then tries to scoop Michaels up, the resilience of the show stopper shines through as he jumps down to his feet and runs back in to the ropes, races back and connects with a FLYING FOREARM. . . . . It’s enough to send the big man down, albeit temporarily as Michaels then flips back up to a massive roar from the Kentucky fans. With Taker also on his feet, the World Champion fights through the pain and drills Taker with a LEG FEED ENZIGURI. . . . . The phenom is sent back down to the mat with Michaels gaining some much needed confidence as he picks himself back up and walks in to the corner. The pain is there for all to see as he fights his way to the top rope and leaps up for a DIVING ELBOW DROP. . . . . Another big pop echoes around the Rupp Arena. Shawn drives his elbow into his challenger’s chest and looks to test the damage by hooking both legs as the ref counts Taker’s shoulders . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! Taker gets his shoulder up with time to spare, and despite looking disappointed, there’s no real expression of surprise on the face of The Heartbreak Kid as he sits back up. Sensing this could be his time, Michaels stands back up and retreats in to the corner as Taker starts to make his own back up. Shawn starts to tune up the band with the crowd stomping their feet and clapping in tandem, and the determination is written all over Michaels’ face as he gets ready to take the dead man’s head off. Taker gets to his feet quite comfortably, and as he turns round, Michaels explodes out of the corner and looks to drill him with the SWEET CHIN MUSIC. . . . . But no! Taker grabs Shawn’s foot. He quickly drops it and spins Michaels on a 360 spin, then whips him in to the ropes. Taker too runs back in to the ropes, and as they meet in the middle of the ring, The Undertaker turns the tide with an earth shattering RUNNING DDT. . . . . Michaels hits the mat head first and is flat on his back, motionless as Taker once again shifts across to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
No! There’s still fight left in the World Champion, and even Taker is shocked as he pulls himself back up to his knees, staring down at Michaels, who rolls on to his side once again with his eyes slightly glazed over, not seeming to know where he is. Taker stands back up and lifts his right arm in to the air, preparing for a CHOKESLAM. . . . . It takes what looks like an age for Shawn to pick himself back up, looking unsteady as he stands back up and turns round to face The Undertaker. The phenom grabs him around the throat, but as he lifts him up off his feet, Michaels manages to escape and jump back down, shocking the dead man. Taker throws a wild right at him, but Shawn ducks the blow with Taker falling forward slightly. As the dead man turns back round, Michaels reacts by leaning back and connecting with a SUPER KICK. . . . . A huge cheer rings round the arena as Michaels just collapses on top of Taker and hooks a leg. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3. He did it! Michaels overcame The Undertaker and retained the World Heavyweight Championship.
WINNER: By pinfall, and still the World Heavyweight Champion, Shawn Michaels @ 22.17.
AFTERMATH: “Sexy Boy” blasts out to a huge pop from the sell-out crowd in Lexington with the referee walking over to the ropes to collect the World Championship while Michaels slowly pulls himself off of The Undertaker and sits up on the mat looking slightly surprised. HBK then struggles to his feet as the ref presents him with the belt and lifts his arm up in the air, declaring him the winner despite Shawn clearly being in absolute agony. Shawn drops to his knees clutching the title, but as he stands back up, Taker rises to his feet too. Michaels turns round to face him, and he is obviously nervous as an intense Taker stares right at him for several seconds before nodding his head with a sign of respect. Shawn grins ever so slightly with Taker then turning round and leaving the ring, allowing Michaels to revel in his success. He walks over to the ropes and raises the belt up in the air, looking very emotional as Taker turns round for one last look from the stage before walking to the back.
HBK then walks across to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, forgetting about his condition as he rests the title over his shoulder to take the time to applaud the fans. He spends a good ten seconds there, but we then hear some anxiousness, and Shawn’s not sure what’s going on. He turns round and sees CM Punk in the ring behind him, holding the Money in the Bank briefcase. As Shawn steps off the ropes, Punk steps forward and smashes him in the face with the briefcase. Michaels’ music stops and there’s a ton of heat ringing around the Rupp Arena as Punk stares down with the same sadistic grin he displayed earlier on. He ten drops the case and drags Michaels back up, lifts him on to his shoulder and nails him with the GO TO SLEEP. . . . . The heat is deafening as Punk just smirks at the sight of Michaels completely out of it on the mat. The ref races back down the ramp and desperately checks on Michaels, but Punk pulls him up after picking his briefcase and seemingly tells him he’s cashing it in. The ref shakes his head, not happy at all, but Punk shoves him to the ropes where the ref calls Justin Roberts over and whispers in his ear.
Justin Roberts: Ladies and gentleman, CM Punk is cashing in the Money in the Bank contract as of this moment.
*Major Heat*
***Match #8***
World Heavyweight Championship
Shawn Michaels (c) vs CM Punk
The bell rings and Punk walks back over to the squirming Michaels, picking up and lifting him on to his shoulders to plant him with another GTS. . . . . Michaels looks completely helpless as Punk drops to his knees and makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNER: By pinfall, and the new World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk @ 0.13.
AFTERMATH: “This Fire Burns” blasts out to a barrage of heat from the fans. Punk stands up with a huge grin on his face as he is passed the World Heavyweight Championship. He demands the referee raise his hand, and he does so before leaving the ring looking disgusted. Punk shrugs it off and smiles through it as he walks over to the ropes and lifts his first major World Championship in to the air with the fans continuing to boo. He turns round and continues to smile as he looks down at Michaels with no remorse whatsoever before leaving the ring and resting the title on his shoulder as he walks up the ramp. As he gets to the top, he takes the belt off his shoulder and raises it up in to the air once again with a massive grin still written all over his face as the show comes to a close.
{End of Show}
<So you’ll be pretty clear now of what I was referring to at the top of the show when I said that there would be some controversial events.
The first one was the ending to the tag team title match and the use of the cast from Burchill. That was something I have had planned for a while to keep this feud going. It was so long ago that I can’t even remember the timescale, but we’re talking at least 3 months (hand on heart). When I saw Matt Hardy turn up on Raw with the cast a month back, I was pissed and immediately looked at changing this angle, but with the storyline going in to the match and what follows, it was the right thing to do. A simple belt or chair shot wouldn’t cut it. You’ll be able to figure out the exact angle behind it I’m sure without me telling you, but it will become clear on the next Smackdown if you don’t see it. I was slightly concerned by the comments in the predictions about how they had to win. Hopefully you’ll be able to see why this ending occured to keep the feud going.
The main one was of course what happened after the Shawn Michaels/Undertaker match. You can imagine my frustration when I woke up today (Monday morning) after Extreme Rules to see CM Punk had cashed in the Money in the Bank. I was absolutely livid as it would totally no sell what I had planned here, but with storylines in place until SummerSlam and despite reviewing them, I decided to go ahead with it as I would have to have had Punk cash in cheaply at some point anyway, and this was the best time to do it with the storyline I have planned in the first place.
I hope that explains the decisions I made, and I hope you can see the reasoning behind them.
Also, like a couple of people said after Smackdown, things look to be picking up with Edge, Chris Jericho and Jack Swagger (Josh Hayger) returning or debuting this week. You can now add Christian to that, and I wanted to say that I’m really excited about what’s going to be happening on Smackdown in its next chapter.
I also want to thank everyone for all the comments, predictions and the general support I’ve received in getting the number 2 spot in the Mega Standings.
Thanks everyone,
Nige.>
:ns Don’t be an idiot and post one line spoilers or any spam.