On the pre-show, JACK SWAGGER makes a slight step up in competition, taking on err … FUNAKI so, it’s at least a main roster opponent, right? The Anklelock finishes off the #1 announcer @ 02:48, and gets Paul Heymans group 1-0 for the night…
…
*****
WWE
ARMAGEDDON 2008
December 14 | TD Garden, Boston MA
…
~ WWE SIGNATURE OPEN.
…
{The Killers ‘Goodnight, Travel Well’}
{00:23-01:12}
The scene opens exactly the same as the preview video did for the last four weeks; amidst desolation and a destitute environment, filled with fires, burning buildings and no signs of life – like a nuclear explosion had hit the planet – interspersed with flashing shots of EDGE in agony in the ring, KURT ANGLE in pain, CHRISTIANbloodied up at Summerslam.
“THE UNKNOWN DISTANCE TO THE GREAT BEYOND…”
A slow motion shot of BATISTA, as he poses during his entrance … an irate MARK HENRY marching to the ring just two nights ago on Smackdown, and JEFF HARDY soaring through the air for the Swanton Bomb.
“STARES BACK AT MY GRIEVING FRAME”
RANDY ORTON punting Joey Matthews, and JOHN MORRISON returning three weeks ago to avenge his fallen former partner.
“TO CAST MY SHADOW BY THE HOLY SUN…”
Shots of KURT ANGLE in what we can probably now call his ‘peak’, winning the WWF Championship in Pittsburgh in 2001, along with applying the Anklelock on the greatest stars to grace the ring.
“MY SPIRIT MOANS WITH A SACRED PAIN.”
And to anguish, due to recent failures, burying his head in the mat, dejected at SummerSlam, and a disappointed PAUL HEYMAN at the Survivor Series last month, and again after MARK HENRY manhandled him on Smackdown.
“AND IT’S QUIET NOW…”
BATISTA screwing EDGE out of the WWE Championship on Smackdown two months ago, and the pair brawling in the weeks and months that have followed.
“THE UNIVERSE IS STANDING STILL…”
Cut to EDGE and BATISTA standing off this past Friday staring each other down from the ring and the stage respectively.
{02:14-02:58}
“WE KNOW THAT IT’S OVER NOW…”
From the rather humorous image of THE BRIAN KENDRICK having his head shaved … into FINLAY being found in a bloody mess on Smackdown in October.
“I FEEL MY FADED MIND BEGIN TO ROAM!”
And the transformation of THE BRIAN KENDRICK into his now unhinged persona, and applying the Bully Choke on R-Truth at the Survivor Series, before attacking Finlay two weeks ago on Smackdown.
“EVERY TIME YOU FALL, AND”
JEFF HARDY hitting that heart stopping Swanton Bomb at WrestleMania X7, and numerous other bumps through the years.
“EVERY TIME YOU TRY”
Then trying to haul himself up the ladder when challenging The Undertaker in 2002 for the Undisputed Title… before cutting to CHRISTIAN winning the World Title at WrestleMania 23.
“EVERY FOOLISH DREAM AND EVERY COMPROMISE”
Flashing shot of all the main players featured so far, interspersed with shots of devastation and wasteland…
“EVERY WORD YOU SPOKE, AND”
Before finally getting to CHRIS JERICHO and ARMANDO ESTRADA full of confidence, with UMAGA doing the dirty work; attacking Edge at No Mercy, reeling off the eliminations at the Survivor Series…
“EVERYTHING YOU SAID”
A slow motion shot of PAUL HEYMAN following behind KURT ANGLE … then RANDY ORTON … and the pair side eyeing one another at a different time.
“EVERYTHING YOU LEFT ME, RAMBLES IN MY HEAD…”
CHRISTIAN leaving the ring on Smackdown, and leaving JEFF HARDY with more questions than answers, mixed with shots of crying mothers, lost looking children, casualties being carried in others arms … as explosions go off in the distance.
{3:15-3:46}
“THERE’S NOTHING I CAN SAY”
CHRIS JERICHOS eyes bugging out on Smackdown with UMAGA not breaking his grip on the handshake.
“THERE’S NOTHING I CAN DO NOW.”
And UMAGA nailing Jericho with the Samoan Spike, blasting his own handler, and crushing Jericho with the Banzai Drop.
It’s all scenes of a world in chaos, ravaged by flames and explosions…
“UP.”
BATISTA delivering the Batista Bomb to Edge.
“A-BOVE.”
MARK HENRY giving Angle the Worlds Strongest Slam.
“THE.”
EDGE spearing Batista.
“WORLD.”
CHRIS JERICHO with the WWE Championship.
“SO.”
To UMAGA holding the title on Smackdown.
“HIIIIIGH.”
And one final explosion. Straight into dead silence.
Before the echo of a familiar line from Armageddon events past…
“THE END IS HERE”
{HERE}
{HERE}
{HERE}
AND NOW … PRINCE OF PERSIA PRESENTS A SMACKDOWN PRODUCTION OF WWE ARMAGEDDON!!!
!! ~ PYRO ~ !!
Naturally, Michael Cole welcomes the watching audience to ARMAGEDDON!! He hypes THREE Championship matches, along with a #1 Contenders Match and a Belfast Brawl, plus MUCH more tonight on the final Smackdown PPV of the year!! Jerry Lawler adds his two cents, saying that even though there’s no titles at stake, he can’t wait for Edge versus Batista, and wonders how Chris Jericho will react to Umaga going rogue on Smackdown ahead of the main event tonight!!
**PALE RIDER**
But straight out of the gate is the Cruiserweight Champion Christopher Daniels, along with his cohorts that now make up the triumvirate known as THE TRINITY; Low Ki and Justin Gabriel. Cole and Lawler throw to clips of the ‘hooded’ men that cost Bryan Danielson the Cruiserweight title back on Halloween night and again at the Survivor Series, before it was all revealed who was behind the hoods.
**FLIGHT OF THE VALKYRIES**
It’s the music of the FORMER Cruiserweight Champion, with BRYAN DANIELSON joined by JERRY LYNN, who was revealed as one of Danielsons two partners this past Friday on Smackdown, with the third name still unknown. Danielson has a microphone though, and doesn’t make us wait long to find out who his other partner is, whilst Cole remarks that tonight Danielson wants to win back control of the division he helped take forward…
Danielson starts off by wanting to remind Justin Gabriel of what he warned him about on Friday, then says that as soon as the challenge was made by the Fallen Angel, he had someone that was VERY keen to make up the team with a BIG score to settle with Daniels … and after some conversations between the TWO General Managers … they got the green light for this man to make a one off appearance on the Blue Brand to create ANARCHY…
**BRITTANIA REMIX**
And it’s Christopher Daniels FORMER tag team partner that he turned his back on in the summer – IT’S DOUG WILLIAMS!!! No, this doesn’t get a big pop, or even a good pop … but it makes more sense than anyone else. Williams, who has barely even been used on TV – let alone Raw – since Daniels jumped ship looks like he’s out for blood as HE leads the way to the ring … and wastes no time coming after the Cruiserweight champion, making the most of this one night loan from Raw!!!
Six Man Tag Team Match:
The Trinity vs. Bryan Danielson, Jerry Lynn & Doug Williams
And immediately, Williams executes a double leg on Daniels and wails away at his former tag team partner!! Low Ki and Jjustin Gabriel quickly put the boots to the Brit in order to stop him, as Danielson and Lynn join the fray, and it’s a wild six man brawl to kick this off!! The fired up triumvirate of Danielson, Lynn and Williams are able to get the upper hand though, and the ring is cleared until it’s only Doug Williams and the Cruiserweight Champion in the ring.
The Fallen Angel tries to beg off to no avail, as Williams beats the shit out of him, and even when Daniels is able to reverse a whip he follows in – eating the turnbuckles as Williams gets out, and WILLIAMS DELIVERS THE CHAOS THEORY!!! 1...2...BROKEN BY LOW KI!!! And in come Bryan and Lynn again!! Jimmy Korderas prevents them though, ordering both faces out, allowing Justin Gabriel to nail Doug Williams with a springboard forearm!!! The South African slips back out of the ring to accept a tag from his leader, and the Trinity begin to work over the on-loan superstar from Raw.
The heat sequence is fairly short and rather nondescript, with Gabriel slowing the action down … but there’s some buzz when Gabriel tags in Low Ki for Low Ki’s first official act as a WWE superstar, brimming with intensity, lighting up Doug with kicks, then hits a running double stomp to the back for a near fall. Ki continues to showcase his abilities before eventually tagging back out to a refreshed Christopher Daniels.
And Daniels is much more confident to take on Williams now that he’s got the upper hand. The Fallen Angel talks trash as he puts the boots to his former partner, asking if he thought it was going to go like this … but the cockiness comes back to haunt the champion … as he walks into an EXPLODER SUPLEX from the Anarchist!! Williams crawls to his corner, reaching for a tag … but Bryan is YANKED OFF the apron by Gabriel!! The South African runs from Bryan, but the momentary distraction leaves Doug no choice but to tag in Lynn instead.
And the veteran doesn’t waste any time. He uses his minutes to show that he’s still got plenty left to offer, leaping into action, making the Fallen Angels head spin with a headscissors, and nearly gets the champion with a few pinning combinations, before setting up his patented TORNADO DDT – NO!! Daniels blocks it, shoving Jerry aside, and quickly tagging out to Low Ki again. Ki and Lynn partake in some brief grappling exchanges, which the younger man gets the better off, eeking an advantage out, and with Lynn under control, he tags out to Gabriel.
The Trinity start to show some solid team work, which is noted by Cole, cutting the ring off … but they can’t cut off the spirit of the veteran. Jerry Lynn fights back against the youngster from South Africa, but a blind tag from the Fallen Angel allows him to assist Gabriel, and put Jerry Lynn back down. Daniels applies a sleeper, but Lynn battles, inching closer to his corner … but AGAIN Bryan Danielson specifically is pulled from the apron by the opposition, leaving Lynn to tag in Williams instead!!
Williams takes the initiative though, coming off the apron with a FLYING KNEE TO GABRIEL AND LOW KI!!! Williams gets up … AND TURNS RIGHT INTO AN STO FROM THE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION!!! Daniels drops his former partner on the floor, rolling him back inside and APPLIES THE KOJI CLUTCH, looking to finish it right here … BUT BRYAN DANIELSON BREAKS IT WITH A FLYING HEADBUTT!!! Daniels and Williams are both down … they both need a tag … but there’s NO ONE there for the Cruiserweight champion … and no one to stop Danielson finally getting a tag from Doug Williams!!!
And the former champion comes in all guns blazing!!! He rushes in, just as Justin Gabriel climbs back in, but ducks under, steaming by – and dropkicks Low Ki off the apron!!! Without stopping, Danielson is right back up, but is met with a kick from Gabriel. The South African shoots Danielson into the corner … but instead of hitting it, Danielson runs up the buckles and backflips off, over Gabriel, then ducks under, coming back with a running clothesline!!! It leaves the Cruiserweight Champion – all out of back up – and Danielson KICKS THE SHIT OUT OF HIM!!! He hammers the chest of the Fallen Angel, then sets for the big head kick-
WHEN LOW KI RETURNS TO THE RING, CHARGING AT DANIELSON … BUT BRYAN USES LOW KI’S OWN MOMENTUM TO SEND HIM OVER AND OUT!!! Daniels has retreated to a corner, and Gabriel is in the opposite, as Danielson goes into over drive; running dropkick to the Fallen Angel, running dropkick to Gabriel, another for the champion, another for the South African … capped off with a SUICIDE DIVE TO LOW KI ON THE FLOOR!!!!!
Bryan Danielson has the fans on their feet with his electric offence, and he isn’t slowing down, going right to the top rope after the Suicide dive … MISSILE DROPKICK TO THE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION … AND IMMEDIATELY APPLIES THE CATTLE MUTILATION!!!!! But before he can really make the Fallen Angel suffer, Danielsons hold is broken by the pesky South African!!! Danielson and Gabriel begin to trade blows as a result … which winds up in a ROARING ELBOW FOR JUSTIN GABRIEL!!!!!
Immediately after though, Low Ki is back, and nails Danielson from behind … but Doug Williams returns too, taking Ki out of the ring with a Cactus Clothesline!!! From behind Bryan though, Christopher Daniels clobbers him!!! He sends Bryan to the corner – where a recovered Jerry Lynn makes a tag, coming in with a springboard clothesline for Daniels!!! He goes back up top, looking for a Cross Body … DANIELS ROLLS OVER UPON IMPACT … HOOKING THE TIGHTS … 1...2...NO!!!!
Lynn kicks out, just in time, but complains for a split second to the official – long enough for Daniels to level him with a step up enziguri!!! The Champion loads up for ANGELS WINGS ON LYNN – BUT GETS CUT OFF BY DOUG WILLIAMS!!!!! Williams gets his hands on Daniels again, powerslamming the champion, setting him up for BOMBS AWAY …
BUT GABRIEL ROLLS DANIELS OUT OF TROUBLE AND TAKES THE BULLET FOR HIS LEADER!!!!!
Williams and Lynn take a moment to toss Gabriel out of the ring – just as Low Ki sneakily tags Daniels, then drops off the apron again to make it look like the champ is still legal – allowing Low Ki to catch them both unaware with a double dropkick to the back!!! Williams topples through the ropes to the floor, whilst Low Ki puts the finishing touches to the veteran … KI KRUSHER!!!!! Bryan Danielson tries to break the count, but Christopher Daniels holds onto his legs to stop him … 1...2...3!!!!!
Winners: The Trinity @ 10:53
The energy saps out of the hot crowd as the heel unit gets the job done!! Danielson kicks the Fallen Angel away but it’s too late, with the job done for Daniels and his men. Gabriel is an absolute mess having suffered the Roaring Elbow AND Bombs Away toward the end, but his sacrifice was worth it!! The Trinity regroup on the floor, backing up the ramp, with Daniels especially all smiles having AGAIN gotten the better of Bryan Danielson.
In the ring, all three of the beaten team are rightly frustrated. There’s no blame game, and indeed, there’s a few consolatory pats on the back and hands on the shoulders, but the mood is clearly one of disappointment where Danielson, Lynn and Williams are concerned … whilst The Trinity come through this first test as a unit … unscathed.
Arriving to the building, CHRIS JERICHO and ARMANDO ESTRADA rightfully both look concerned … as Michael Cole talks about Jericho’s world turning upside down just forty eight hours ago. He thought he had everything in hand for tonight. He thought he was getting a free ride tonight. And now, it couldn’t be farther from the truth. He’s got arguably the toughest possible assignment there is…
**VIDEO PACKAGE**
Opening bars of ‘Sweet Disposition’ by The Temper Trap
Quick shots of previous stadiums that have hosted WRESTLEMANIA filling up on the day of the show, and excited faces of fans young and old, before FIREWORKS. And then, the famous line uttered by Vince McMahon in 1987.
“WELCOME TO WRESTLEMANIAAAAA”
Clips of Hulk Hogan and Andre The Giant face to face at WrestleMania III, Christian kissing the title at WrestleMania 23, Steve Austin winning his first title at WrestleMania XIV and Bobby Heenan coming to the ring backwards on a camel at WrestleMania IX.
“A moment, a love, a dream, a laugh”
Trish Stratus reuniting with and kissing Chris Jericho at WrestleMania 21, Ric Flair in tears after losing to Kurt Angle at his final WrestleMania appearance this past year, Bret Hart on the rosters shoulders at WrestleMania X, Austin shaking hands with Mr. McMahon at WrestleMania X7.
“A kiss, a cry, our rights, our wrongs”
Edge spearing Jeff Hardy in mid air off the ladder at WrestleMania X7, Macho Man and Miss Elizabeth reuniting at WrestleMania VII, Shawn Michaels on his knees at WrestleMania XII, Roddy Piper blasting a fire extinguisher at Morton Downey Jr at WrestleMania V.
“A moment, a love, a dream, a laugh”
The Undertakers entrance at WrestleMania XX, Triple H and Stephanie entering together at WrestleMania 23, Hogan and The Rock looking side to side at WrestleMania X8, Andre The Giant choking Bob Eucker at WrestleMania IV.
“A moment, a love, a dream, a laugh”
The Ultimate Warrior running to the ring at WrestleMania VI, Kane blasting off his pyro at WrestleMania 21, John Cena’s elaborate entrance this year and Shawn Michaels entrance at WrestleMania XII.
“So stay there”
Ricky Steamboat leaving in his cart with the I.C Title at WrestleMania III, The Undertaker with a tope at WrestleMania 23, Liberace dancing at WrestleMania I.
“'Cause I'll be coming over”
Austin trapped in the Sharpshooter at WrestleMania XIII, Randy Orton on his way to the ring with the title at WrestleMania XXIV and Vince McMahon peering up on the apron at WrestleMania XIX.
“While our blood's still young”
Flashing shots of Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania I, then XXII, The Rock at WrestleMania XIII then XXII and Kurt Angle at WrestleMania 2000 then XXIV.
“It's so young, it runs”
Clips of The Undertaker sitting up at WrestleMania XIII, Brent Albright capturing the Money in the Bank briefcase this year, John Cena giving The Rock the FU at WrestleMania XX.
“Won't stop 'til it's over”
Triple H raising the two titles at WrestleMania X8, John Cena capturing his first title at WrestleMania 21, fireworks going off after Christians win at WrestleMania 23 and Edge closing out WrestleMania 24.
“Won't stop to surrender…”
WRESTLEMANIA XXV | APRIL 5 2009 | HOUSTON TX
~ CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF WRESTLEMANIA ~
ONLY ON PAY PER VIEW
***
Heading backstage, MATT HARDY paces back and forth, outside the door marked ‘GENERAL MANAGER’ before eventually knocking the door, and walking in. Inside, FINLAY is dressed for action – he’s fighting tonight – and looks a little irked to be disturbed at this point. Grudgingly, after telling Matt this isn’t the time, he asks Hardy what he wants, with Hardy explaining the issues he’s been having recently.
But, before he can get it out that he wants a few weeks off, Matt is cut off by Finlay. The GM admits that he’s not exactly in the right frame of mind right now … but he’s feeling generous and depending on how his match goes tonight, he could be out of commission again … so before that could happen, Finlay offers Matt the match he’s wanted for some time; one on one with EDGE (provided Edge comes through tonight unscathed) on December 26.
That stops Matt in his tracks – he came here wanting time off – as he’s being offered the one match he’s desired and campaigned for … and after taking a few seconds to think it over, Matt shakes the hand of the GM … and ACCEPTS the match with Edge the night after Christmas!! Suddenly, Matt looks … happy?? He even wishes Finlay luck for his Belfast Brawl, thanking him for the opportunity, and promising the GM that he’s going to grab the chance with both hands and show Edge that Smackdown doesn’t revolve around him.
Back into the arena…
**VOICES**
Slowly and deliberately, RANDY ORTON makes his way through the curtain, followed by Paul Heyman, as Michael Cole starts to narrate over clips of what led to this match tonight… but doesn’t get time, as JOHN MORRISON JUMPS ORTON ON THE STAGE!!!!
Morrison couldn’t wait another minute!!! Lawler screeches “what is happening here tonight!!” referring back to the rushed start in the opener too, as Morrison pummels Orton around ringside, much to the dismay of a freaked out Heyman. Morrison slams Ortons head off the steps, and rushes him into the barricade, but as he looks to lead Orton to the ANNOUNCE TABLE – Orton stops him with a knee to the gut … before Randy rolls into the ring for a break!!!
But Morrison is right in after him!!! This one is officially underway!!
Grudge Match:
Randy Orton w/Paul Heyman vs. John Morrison
Morrison rushes Orton right into the corner, driving his shoulder into the gut of the former champion, then drives knees to the gut too, winding Orton, before mounting the ropes and letting fly with a barrage of punches with which the fans feverishly count along, getting to the round number of TEN, before finally relenting. But after dropping down, Morrison doesn’t waste time following up, hitting a MONKEY FLIP!!
With that, Orton wisely rolls out of the ring for separation … but Morrison isn’t ready to let up … unfortunately though for John, he’s TOO eager, and allows himself to walk right into the trap set by Orton, as Randy cuts him off with a knee to the gut. Quickly, Orton slams Morrisons face off the announce table, and wants to follow that by sending Morrison into the steel steps – but the agile Morrison LEAPS onto the steps instead … AND MOONSAULTS BACK OFF THEM TO TAKE DOWN ORTON!!!!!
Morrison quickly lays into his downed opponent with ferocious forearm shots before – under instructions from the official – rolling Orton back into the ring. Once inside, Morrison stomps Randy, keeping the former champion on his knees before rushing off the ropes … running right into a reverse elbow from Orton!! That one really cuts the momentum of Morrison, and allows Orton to take over and begin to stamp his authority on the contest in his usual methodical style, completely cutting off Morrisons momentum by slowing the former tag champion down with the Garvin stomp, before applying the chinlock (of doom ~!).
Despite the draining nature of the tactics employed by Orton, Morrison has too much bad blood in him to simply lie down. He forces himself back to his feet, breaking the hold of Orton with elbows – but before he can get away, Orton stops him in his tracks with a big uppercut forearm. Morrison drops to a knee from that impact, and Orton – again at his slow, deliberate pace – aims another of those rough uppercut shots- NO – Morrison turns away from it, hooking the arms of Orton – backslide … 1...2...NO!!!
Bouncing up, Orton aims a clothesline at Morrison – ducked – and Morrison catches Orton with a dropkick!! Without any wasted motion, Morrison leaps to the top rope – but Orton races to the corner after him, cutting Morrison off with a big shot to the gut!! Randy follows to the top and after some struggling from Morrison, Orton is able to execute a SUPERPLEX!!! Both men are down off the impact, but with Heyman in his ear from the floor, Orton is willed on, and makes the cover … 1...2...SHOULDER UP FROM MORRISON!!!
But that may only be delaying the inevitable for Morrison. On his way back up, Orton pounds his fists into the mat, a sure sign that the RKO is on his mind … and he sizes Morrison up, going for it – NO!! Too early, Morrison is able to struggle, pounding away the arm of Orton, then grabs hold of his rival – RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP FROM MORRISON!! That buys Morrison time, as the two men struggle back to their feet, getting up by the count of four, and it’s Morrison that’s quicker, catching Orton coming in with a modified backbreaker!! Cover, 1...2...NO!!!
Cole notes that Orton is looking really uncomfortable tonight, almost as if the former Champion wasn’t quite taking Morrison seriously heading into this contest, and he’s paying the price for it. Morrison sizes up Orton as he pulls himself up, racing toward him – but Orton side steps, and throws Morrison over the top – only for Morrison to hang on!! Orton tries to nail him but Morrison lands first, then looks to drive his shoulder into the gut of Orton through the middle rope – big mistake!! Orton steps aside, then VOLLEYS the chest of Morrison, leaving John prone over the ropes … PERFECT FOR THE HANGMANS DDT!!!
Orton hooks it up … BUT MORRISON SCRAMBLES FREE!!! He knew the danger he was in (and Cole reminds the audience of the DDT he took from the apron from Orton last month) and desperately escapes the predicament, then ducks a swing from Orton, hanging Orton up on the ropes in the process … allowing Morrison to SUNSET FLIP back into the ring … 1...2...NO!!! Morrison leaps up from the kick out, and RUSHES THROUGH THE SEATED ORTON WITH A SICK LOOKING RUNNING KNEE!!! Even Heyman is left open mouthed at ringside … 1...2...SHOULDER UP!!!
Orton manages the kick out, but barely seems to know where he is, instinctively crawling to the ropes to get out of the ring, as both commentators talk up this performance from Morrison, reminding everyone that this is Morrisons first ever one on one match on PPV, and he’s taking it to a former 3x champion in the peak of his career – he has Orton in real trouble!! And it seems Morrison is growing in confidence too, watching as Orton gathers himself on the floor … and baseball slides out; catching Orton with a HEADSCISSORS IN ONE MOTION!!!!!
The crowd pleasing, innovative style of Morrison has the fans on their feet, giving him a rousing reception, and Morrison feeds off it, tossing Randy back in and even taking a second to scare off a prowling Heyman before climbing back in himself, slamming Orton right back down, then follows with a standing shooting star!!!!! 1...2...NO!!! Orton is having to cling on here to survive, with Morrison growing in confidence, dragging Randy back up, sending him off the ropes, wanting a dropkick-
But Orton holds onto the ropes!! Morrison dropkicks thin air!! Morrison hits the canvas, wincing as he tries to get back up, whilst Ortons eyes widen, seeing an opportunity with the position Morrison is in … AND ORTON CHARGES IN FOR THE PUNT KICK – BUT MORRISON MOVES JUST IN TIME!!!!! Orton whiffs on the kick, Morrison leaps up, and NAILS Orton with a heel kick!!! Orton is down, and Morrison isn’t wasting any time!!! He immediately heads for the corner, taking one last look behind to check Ortons position … then goes for it all; STARSHIP PAIN-
NO ONE HOME!!!!
ORTON ROLLED OUT OF HARMS WAY-
BUT MORRISON MANAGES TO LAND ON HIS FEET!!!!
Incredible athleticism from Morrison, and he charges toward Orton getting up … BUT CHARGES RIGHT INTO A RANDY ORTON SNAP POWERSLAM!!!!! Hook of the leg from the former champion; 1...2...KICK OUT!!! Heyman throws his hands up in frustration on the floor, and Orton himself mutters, before taking out his own frustrations by mounting Morrison, and hammering him with rights and lefts!!! Following an admonishment from the official, Orton gets back up, catching the eye of Heyman, who shares a look of concern about how this is going.
Orton brings Morrisons limp body with him, sending Morrison off the ropes, ducking down for the return of his opponent … BUT MORRISON STOPS SHORT – AND TAKES FULL ADVANTAGE OF ORTONS POSITION, GRABBING THE NECK … MOONLIGHT DRIVE TO ORTON!!!!! This could be it, Morrison hooks the leg … 1...2...ORTON JUST GETS A SHOULDER UP!!!! In anguish, Morrison sits on his knees after the kick out, briefly holding up three fingers at the official, before conceding that Orton kicked out. He drags himself up, and stands at the ropes, waiting for Orton to rise …
AND GOES FOR THE FLYING CHUCK KICK-
BUT ORTON AVOIDS IT!!!
MORRISON LANDS ON HIS FEET, SPINS AROUND-
RKO!!!!!!!!
Orton catches Morrison cold, and breathes a sigh of relief as he drops down for the cover… 1...2...3!!!!!
Winner: Randy Orton @ 12:27
The win for Orton deflates the crowd somewhat, whilst Orton himself simply looks relieved to have survived the scare brought to him by the impressive John Morrison. And on commentary, Cole gushes with praise for Morrison, with King even agreeing with him, as they both believe that Morrison held his own with a bonafide main event star, giving Orton a real run for his money. And whilst he couldn’t avenge Joey Matthews, he certainly didn’t bring ANY shame on himself with his performance tonight, and probably won a whole host of new admirers in the process.
Heyman shows that same relief, wiping his forehead and giving a ‘phew’ at the camera … whilst Orton stands to his feet, shaking his head as he looks down at his beaten opponent tonight – he knows himself he was pushed hard- harder than he probably envisioned himself, despite the motivation Morrison already had coming into the match. Orton then takes a few steps back into the corner … just as he would if he was setting up a PUNT KICK!!! Cole and Lawler both shout “NO!”, knowing the routine all too well … as Morrison slowly tries to push himself up.
Cole shouts that there’s no call for this, Orton won the match, he doesn’t need to do irreparable damage to the up and comer … whilst Lawler sadly mutters, “he never HAS to do this, Michael – he’s sick, he does it for kicks!!” … but as Orton lines it up, he takes the first step forward- then stops?? Orton himself has second doubts, and stands over Morrison for a second … seemingly deciding to let Morrison off … and even offers Morrison a nod of respect!!! Orton scoffs, and shakes his head … before LEAVING the ring!! He’s sparing Morrison!!!
Orton leaves with Heyman, shrugging as Heyman asks why he didn’t give Morrison the punt, but on commentary, Cole guesses that perhaps even Randy Orton respected the effort of Morrison, acknowledging how close he was pushed tonight. And in the ring, Morrison sits on his knees, disappointed in the loss … but a resounding applause begins inside the arena, recognizing this performance from Morrison, and he starts to nod, acknowledging the reaction, resulting in the call from Cole…
“John Morrison may have lost this match tonight, but he’s won the admiration of these fans – and no doubt, the fans watching all over the world!!”
Backstage, JOSH MATHEWS conducts an interview with the CARIBBEAN CONNECTION. Cutting straight to the chase, Josh asks about Friday night and the condition of Kofi Kingstons knee after the targeting of it by M.V.P. Kofi speaks through clenched teeth almost as he describes how he and Carlito have been denied a title shot time and time again over the last eight months, and now they have their shot, their rivals have targeted them to weaken them.
But whilst admitting his knee is in bad shape, and that he was told earlier he shouldn’t compete tonight, he WILL be out there later. And while physically, he’s weaker, a setback like this has only made the TEAM stronger mentally. Carlito nods in agreement, and adds that he’d have gone out there alone tonight if he had to, but knew that Kofi wouldn’t sit this out. Carlito accepts that it may be down to him to “lead” the team tonight and take care of the majority of business to protect Kofi, but jokes that off by saying he’s always happy to get that spotlight on himself.
Asked if they feel they’ll be the easy target for all three teams, Carlito is quick to answer back that injury or no injury, they’d have been the targets anyway. Everyone knows they’re the best team in this division … and tonight, they’ll go through three other teams to finally prove it. Kofi agrees, as the Caribbean Connection sign off, and walk off the set (though Kofi notably limps) looking determined – more than ever, perhaps – to win the tag team titles tonight against the odds.
Back into the arena and the commentators discuss the chances – or lack thereof – for Carlito and Kofi tonight, before transitioning (when the graphic shows up) to Finlay and Kendrick, wondering just what kind of injuries these two will leave Armageddon with, as their issue comes to a head, almost a year to the day that Finlay first took over on Smackdown as GM, and the journey to this grudge match would begin …
The video package airs, narrated by the unhinged Brian Kendrick, talking through the history between himself and Finlay. What started out as a somewhat harmless series of bickering, would wind up becoming so much more. For eight months, Kendrick was simply a pain for Finlay to deal with. An irritant. But once Finlay saw to it that The Brian Kendrick would part with his much loved hair (as a result of a stipulation at SummerSlam) the entire mood shifted.
Kendrick was no longer a harmless irritant. He was a broken man – without his most prized possession, he became a monster. And the blame lay at the feet of the Smackdown General Manager. Kendrick took Finlay out of commission for over a month as he completed his transformation to a legit menace … but Finlay came roaring back at the Survivor Series, setting up this final showdown tonight – and one in which Finlay promises will be Kendricks final night as a Smackdown talent.
Back into the arena…
**MAN WITH A PLAN**
Dragging out his tattered and discolored white leather jacket, THE BRIAN KENDRICK runs his fingers over his bald head as he walks down the ramp. Cole notes that win, lose or draw this WILL be Kendricks last night on Smackdown, as Finlay will cut him loose without firing him, making Kendrick a free agent … and he intends on leaving with a bang … and potentially leaving by making it Finlays last night on Smackdown too.
**LAMBEG**
He’s not dressed for making matches tonight – he’s dressed for a FIGHT!! He’s not carrying a jacket either; FINLAY is bringing his SHILLELAGH instead!!! Kendrick nods from the ring, he wants the war to be brought to him, as the official frantically demands Kendrick stay back until Finlay gets in the ring. He BEGS Finlay to get into the ring … and the Irishman is all too happy to oblige, sliding inside…
BELFAST BRAWL:
The Brian Kendrick vs. Finlay
And Finlay tosses the Shillelagh for Kendrick to catch – which seems odd, but it’s merely just to occupy Kendrick and thrown him off, allowing Finlay to attack!!! Finlay comes at Kendrick with stiff blows, beating his rival into the corner, continuing to rough him up with punches and forearms before delivering a hip toss out of the corner that sends Kendrick bumping like a mad man!!! Finlay stomps at TBK, then drops an elbow before stomping the life out of him – it’s pure hatred coming out of the man that loves to fight!!!
Finlay drags Kendrick back to his feet, only to send him right back down with a short arm clothesline!! Dropping down, Finlay GRINDS his forearm into the face of Kendrick, with Kendrick kicking his legs around in discomfort, and moreso when Finlay starts to FISH HOOK the mouth of Kendrick!!! Finlay eventually relents, but only momentarily, bringing Kendrick back up to his feet and sending him HARD into the corner!! The Irishman walks in after … but walks right into a desperate EYE POKE from Kendrick!!!
The GM staggers away, giving Kendrick an opening to knock him down with a CALF KICK to take Finlay off his feet. And now, it’s Kendricks turn to get his shots in – filled with hate, he CHOKES Finlay, then looks to GOUGE his eyes … but Finlay pushes him off, and rolls to the outside, but Kendrick looks for a baseball slide … ALL A PLOY BY FINLAY – HE PULLS THE RING APRON BACK – AND TRAPS KENDRICK AS HE SLIDES OUT!!! And Finlay beats the tar out of his rival, who has nowhere to go!!!
Finlay beats up Kendrick at ringside after that too, leading to the first use of the weapons, taking a trash can from under the ring and BLASTING IT over the skull of TBK!!! Finlay wants to escalate things, peeling away the mats before coming back to Kendrick, but when he looks to pull him up, KENDRICK SPRAYS A FIRE EXTINGUISHER IN FINLAYS FACE!!!!! Not content, Kendrick doubles up and NAILS Finlay with the weapon too!!!
Kendrick takes the fight toward the ramp with boots to the ribs of Finlay, making the Irishman crawl away, but when he attempts to drive Finlay into the ramp – FINLAY COUNTERS WITH A SIDE SUPLEX ON THE RAMP INSTEAD!!! They wind up trading blows to the stage structure, and Kendrick tries to push Finlay into the rising FLAMES which forms part of the structure, but the GM manages to cut Kendrick off and save himself, before running Kendrick into the set!!!
Looking around for a weapon, Finlay picks up a broken metal sheet that was part of the set … but doesn’t notice Kendrick has taken hold of a pipe from the set design … with TBK keeping it behind his back – BEFORE CRACKING FINLAY IN THE SKULL WITH IT!!!!! That draws BLOOD from Finlay, and allows Kendrick to take full control after the back and forth sequence that preceded it. Kendrick wraps the pipe across the back of Finlay all the way down the ramp and back to ringside, and after ripping the singlet straps on Finlays attire, showing the WELTS on the back of the bloodied up Irishman as a result of the pipe shots.
An elbow swing buys Finlay a moment, but only a moment, and with him using the steps to try and pull himself up, he leaves himself easy prey for Kendrick to start SMASHING the General Managers skull off the steps repeatedly!!! Finally relenting, Kendrick stands on the steps, outstretching his arms and looking up to the rafters with a euphoric look, standing over his battered boss. Kendrick tosses a chair and a series of trash cans into the ring, and rolls Finlay under the bottom rope, looking to continue the punishment in the ring, stomping the bloody face of the Irishman, whilst talking trash … then starts slamming the chair across the back of the Finlay too!!!
As Cole notes that Finlay has wrestled ONE match in the last year since becoming GM (as a way to explain him being dominated), Kendrick sets the chair up with bad intentions, and pulls Finlay up to his feet … WANTING SLICED BREAD TO LAND ON THE CHAIR … BUT WHEN HE COMES OFF THE ROPES – FINLAY THROWS KENDRICK OFF … AND KENDRICK CRASHES THROUGH THE UNFOLDED CHAIR!!!!!
The counter buys Finlay time to catch his breath, having to lean back against the ropes, as Kendrick writhes in pain, clutching at his back. Kendrick struggles up … but Finlay is waiting, and has two trash can lids in his hands … WAFFLING KENDRICK WITH BOTH OF THEM, OVER AND OVER UNTIL THEY’RE BENT OUT OF RECOGNITION!!!!! Finlay, hitting a second wind, gets Kendrick up onto his shoulders … ROLLING SENTON ONTO A TRASH CAN!!!! The Irishman looks to end it there, making a weak cover, 1...2...NO!!!
Wiping the blood from his face, Finlay questions the count, with Lawler guessing that Finlay maybe doesn’t have much left in the tank, hence trying to end it and being upset that it’s not over. Picking himself up, Finlay rolls out and slides in a table. Keeping Kendrick under control, he boots him in the face whilst Kendrick tries to get up, buying himself time to set the table up at an angle in the corner … as Kendrick pulls himself up in the opposite. Finlay walks over to grab his foe … but Kendrick YANKS him by the tights – SENDING FINLAY FACE FIRST INTO AN EXPOSED TURNBUCKLE!!!!!
Finlay slumps into the corner, as Kendricks resourcefulness comes in handy, having gone undetected by the Irishman as he pulled off the padding!! Kendrick drags Finlay out of the corner, then whips him into the exposed turnbuckle again!!! Finlay bounces out after impact – RIGHT INTO THE BULLY CHOKE!!!!! Kendrick leans back in the hold; a hold he debuted to great effect last month at the Survivor Series!! Finlay, already exhausted, fades in the choke and looks set to be going OUT … WHEN HE MANAGES TO GRAB THE SHILLELAGH … AND SWINGS IT BACK TO NAIL KENDRICK AND BREAK THE HOLD!!!!!
Finlay has to use it again with the first shot not landing as clean as he’d have liked, and then continues to use it as he and Kendrick battle to make it to their feet!!!! He cracks the arms and the legs and the body and the back before a wicked shot to the face sends Kendrick falling through the ropes and to the floor with a thud!!!!! Finlay shakes his head; he’s not letting Kendrick get away that easily. He follows to the floor, and batters Kendrick with the Shillelagh AGAIN with Michael Cole putting over the months this moment has been building to!!!
Finally, the Irishman rolls Kendrick back in, throwing the Shillelagh back in too before bringing a second chair into the ring … but as he rolls back in himself and grabs the chair – KENDRICK EXECUTES A LOW DROPKICK – KICKING THE CHAIR INTO FINLAYS FACE!!!!! Both men are down, but Kendrick is first to get up, but he’s on spaghetti legs, and doesn’t have the energy to drag Finlay up, instead having to wait for Finlay to get himself up … and when he does, Kendrick looks to end it, trying for the second time to hit SLICED BREAD-
BUT FINLAY COUNTERS AND CROTCHES KENDRICK ON THE TOP ROPE!!!! Finlay yanks Kendrick into the TREE OF WOE, and stomps the hell out of TBK … THEN HITS A CANNONBALL TO KENDRICK!!!!! Finlay, slow to his feet, pulls Kendrick down onto the mat … before setting up to HIP TOSS KENDRICK THROUGH THE TABLE … BUT KENDRICK HOOKS HIS ARM AROUND THE HEAD OF FINLAY … AND RUNS UP THE TABLE INSTEAD – PUSHING OFF-
SLICED BREAD!!!!!
1...2...FINLAY KICKS OUT!!!!!
Jerry Lawler (and Kendrick) can’t believe Finlay just kicked out of his finish, as Cole uses that to illustrate just how much hatred Finlay has for Kendrick, refusing to lay down, finding it somewhere within him to get a shoulder up!!! Kendrick is ready to snap … but spots the Shillelagh … and a smile forms instead. He picks Finlays weapon up, and starts to DARE Finlay to take a swing!!!
And despite being barely able to stand, Finlay WILL go down swinging – lunging at Kendrick, but Kendrick easily avoids the shot, then takes the Irishman down … BULLY CHOKE … USING THE SHILLELAGH TO CHOKE FINLAY!!!!! It doesn’t take long for the already exhausted Finlay to fade … but he doesn’t even contemplate tapping out to Kendrick and instead of giving Kendrick that satisfaction … allows himself to PASS OUT in the Bully Choke … forcing the official to call for the bell!!!
Winner: The Brian Kendrick @ 13:51
Kendrick initially keeps the choke locked on as the bell rings and the music plays … but eventually DOES release the hold of his own accord before the referee had to intervene. And as he is announced as the winner, a smile forms – a genuine smile; not a manic one – across the face of the bald (now former) Smackdown star.
Cole reiterates that as of now, despite the win, Kendrick is no longer part of the Smackdown roster … but he won’t care about that tonight; he got what he came for. Kendrick looks relieved almost as he has his hand raised, scoring arguably the biggest win of his own career by defeating Finlay on his own in Finlays favoured environment … leading Lawler to complain that “we’re (Smackdown) just cutting this guy loose!?”
In a surprise, Kendrick leaves the ring, something Cole also finds strange, having expected Kendrick to do more heinous acts even after the match … but instead, Kendrick carries himself with some class by not inflicting insult to defeat for Finlay. He walks up the ramp – still smiling – as some medics pass him by to check on the beaten GM.
On commentary, both Cole and Lawler air their surprise at Kendrick just leaving without any issues, with Lawler specifically asking; “he knows he’s not coming back to Smackdown, right??” before talking about the effort from Finlay tonight too, reminding the audience the man doesn’t wrestle any more, and is a General Manager now … though he may be out for a while after this match tonight.
Cutting backstage, PAUL HEYMAN does his utmost to pump up a focused looking KURT ANGLE, who is going through some last minute warm ups with standing squats. Heyman reminds Angle that (including Swagger on the pre-show) they are 2-0 tonight … and it’s over to Kurt to give their group the clean sweep and bring the U.S Title back into the arms of a legitimate American icon!! And more importantly, get Kurt back on track for the WWE Title. Angle says nothing though – he’s too far into the zone, seemingly. Stopping his warm up, Kurt inserts his gum shield, and ignores the words of Heyman, instead just walking out the door. Heyman nods, liking this attitude, before hurriedly pacing out the room to follow his client.
Back in the arena, Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler discuss the previous match again, commenting that Finlay – who is being helped to the back while they speak – is set to be taken to a local medical facility as a precaution, noting the damage he must’ve taken throughout the match, but specifically at the tail end of the match with Kendrick using the Shillelagh for the Bully Choke.
But, moving on, Cole and Lawler start to narrate over clips from this past Friday on Smackdown, which saw the return of MARK HENRY after being AWOL since the Survivor Series. Lawler defends Henry (and Theodore Long) recounting the words of Longs the prior week, and listing the reasons for Henry being livid and protesting by no-showing Smackdown over recent weeks. Unfortunately for Kurt Angle, he looks like he’ll be feeling the brunt of that anger tonight … but Angle himself looks fired up this evening…
**MEDAL**
The ridiculous ‘You Suck’ chants follow KURT ANGLE wherever he goes, but Angle zones it out, along with everything else, as he sports a face of stone ahead of a daunting challenge of Mark Henrys U.S Title. Much is made on commentary of Kurts outburst to Heyman on Friday night and whether that was the “kick” Angle needed from Heyman in order to topple a man that hasn’t lost since moving to Smackdown in April … but Lawler wonders, will it even make a difference considering the dominance of Henry??
On the outside, Heyman is full of chatter, trying to psyche Angle up, while he waits for the champion…
**SOME BODIES GONNA GET IT**
And pissed off, MARK HENRY trunches out from the back whilst Theodore Long carries the United States Title. On commentary, the pair discuss Henry and Long feeling slighted at some of the recent match making, as Lawler quips that if there was one guy on Smackdown you’d try NOT to piss off, it’s Mark Henry … and unfortunately for Angle … he may face the brunt of Henrys anger, like he did on Smackdown two nights ago…
WWE United States Championship Match:
Mark Henryw/Theodore Long vs. Kurt Angle w/Paul Heyman
Immediately after the bell, Kurt Angle ducks under a potential lock up, going behind with a waistlock … but whilst he can get Henrys feet off the ground … he can’t get Henry on the ground and the champion shrugs off the smaller man. “Better re-think that game plan playa!!” bellows Theodore Long from ringside, but Heyman pays no attention to it. Locking up, Henry easily overpowers Angle, throwing him toward the corner, but that doesn’t put Angle off, coming right back at Henry for another lock up … but it’s rinse and repeat; Henry throws Angle at the corner.
This time, Henry follows in – but Angle gets a boot up to wobble the champion, and Angle wants to immediately follow that up!! Cracking Henry with his European Uppercuts, Angle continues to wobble the U.S Champion, seemingly dazing the gargantuan (much to the delight of a vocal Heyman at ringside), then looks to send Henry off with a whip … but Henry shows off his brute strength by putting on the brakes, and YANKS Kurt towards HIM instead, SCOOPING HIM UP FOR THE WORLDS STRONGEST SLAM- NO!!! FRANTICALLY, ANGLE ELBOWS OUT OF IT!!!
Sensing the danger, Angle was quick to escape the clutches of Henry, and uses his greater speed to duck a clothesline shot from the champion too, before delivering a chop block – but aims it LOW – ANKLE level!! The first one wobbles Henry, and a second brings the monster to a knee!!! Angle is bringing Henry down like he’s chopping a tree, and he’s in a hurry to do it too, swarming Henry, not giving the champion a SECOND to recover, hitting a dropkick to the standing leg, bringing Henry down!!! THEN MAKES A LUNGE FOR THE ANKLE-
BUT HENRY INSTANTLY KICKS ANGLE AWAY WITH HIS FREE LEG!!!
Due simply to his size, Henry is slow to get up, but it’s not thought to be related to the shots at the ankle by Kurt, and showing his imperviousness, he shrugs off the incoming BIG overhand rights from the come-forward challenger, overcoming Angle by grabbing him and HEADBUTTS Angle!!! That ONE headbutt subdues Angle, and sends Kurt staggering away – a clear example of what Angle is dealing with here!! Henry then MANHANDLES the Olympian, and starts to THROW Angle around the ring with biels!!!!!
To his credit, Angle keeps getting up – pride coming before the fall – as he either doesn’t listen or doesn’t hear the repeated shouts from Heyman to “GET A BREATHER!! GET OUT!!” who clearly senses danger here for his client. Finally, Henry has enough of throwing Angle around, and instead decides to STAND on Angle with Kurt down by the ropes!!! Henry presses his whole body weight down onto Angle, using the ropes for even MORE pressure … and after stepping off due to the referees count, he steps back ON when Long catches the officials attention from the outside!!!
Heyman is livid, and once the official is back on the matter at hand, forcing Henry to step off, Heyman is yelling at the referee to “get some control here!!”, clearly concerned at how the match has suddenly turned into domination from Henry, and whilst the Worlds Strongest Man doesn’t NEED the help of his manager, it’s making the task that much harder for Angle. Henry isn’t waiting for Angle to get up either, he DRAGS Kurt to his feet, looking to shoot him to the corner and follow in – but Angle propels up before connecting with the buckles, as Henry comes in, with Angle going over-
HENRY RUNS INTO THE BUCKLES-
AND ANGLE LOOKS FOR A GERMAN SUPLEX … BUT HENRY THROWS AN ELBOW TO KNOCK ANGLE OFF!! But whilst the elbows throw Angle off, Kurt shrugs that off to keep coming forward, throwing punches and kicks to slow the champion down, before running off the ropes to build up momentum-
BUT HENRY CUTS HIM OFF ON THE RETURN WITH A BODYBLOCK!!!!! That cuts all the momentum for Angle, as Henry has the lateral press … 1...2...ANGLE JUST GETS A SHOULDER UP!!! And it was barely a kick out at that!! Henry roughly tosses Angle at the ropes, pressing his knee into the back of Angle, choking him on the ropes for another warning from the referee to break. Henry backs up, nodding as he listens to the words of the referee … then takes off – CHOCOLATE SLIDE ON ANGLE!!! The leapfrog body guillotine from Henry sees the champion land on his feet from through the ropes, and begins pounding his chest on the floor, much to the delight of Theodore Long.
Climbing back inside, Henry clubs the back of Angle again, keeping Kurt on his hands and knees, with Heyman looking more and more concerned with what he’s seeing. Henry pulls Angle to his feet, then PRESSES Angle up in the air … GORILLA PRESSING ANGLE … BUT LOSES HIS GRIP … ALLOWING ANGLE TO LAND ON HIS FEET BEHIND HENRY-
AND ANGLE POPS OFF A RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX!!!!!
KURT ANGLE JUST GERMAN SUPLEXED MARK HENRY!!!!!
And Angle taking Henry off his feet gets a massive roar from the audience!! Long is open mouthed at the sight – he didn’t think it was possible – and Heyman looks surprised too at the feat from his own client!! It took a lot out of Angle too, and coupled with the punishment he’s already taken, Angle is showing the effects of the match. It’s a race for the two men to get to their feet, with Henry on his feet FIRST, but MISSES a clothesline attempt – Angle ducks under-
AND DELIVERS A SECOND RELEASE GERMAN ON HENRY!!!!!
Once again, Angle is slow to his feet, again, selling the effects of the match and the effort in taking Henry off his feet, but this time he IS the first up, but Henry isn’t far behind … though Angle is able to duck under him again … AND DELIVER A THIRD RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX ON THE U.S CHAMPION!!!!! And this time – HENRY STAYS DOWN!!! Michael Cole puts over the feat from Angle before calling it “Vintage Angle” … and it appears Angle himself is feeding off that momentum, finding a second wind as he gets up, ripping down the straps … meaning it’s time for the ANKLE LOCK!!!!!
KURT APPLIES THE ANKLE LOCK!!! WRENCHING, RIPPING, TORQUING AT THE ANKLE, ANGLE HAS MARK HENRY IN SERIOUS TROUBLE, CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING-
BUT HENRY TURNS OVER AND POWERS ANGLE OFF WITH SHEER LEG POWER!!!!
Angle takes a tumble THROUGH the ropes, such is the of the Worlds Strongest Man, crashing with a thud onto the floor!! There, Heyman is RIGHT on him, lecturing Kurt, telling him he has Henry right now and to get up and not let this slip. Heyman is almost PUSHING his client back into the ring, whether he’s ready or not, not wanting Kurt to allow Henry to recover either, and the spaghetti legged challenger clubs blows to the back of Henry, trying to prevent him from standing back up … but Henry essentially no sells the blows, still getting to his feet … but a kick to the ankle by Kurt DOES slow Henry!!
And that wince from Henry is an invitation for Angle, as he zeroes in on the ankle, stomping at it solely … until Henry grabs Kurt and emphatically SLAMS Kurt on the mat, immediately following with a BIG SPLASH!!! 1...2...ANGLE SOMEHOW POPS A SHOULDER OFF THE MAT!!! Again, Kurt Angle survives, and it’s Theodore Long who is beginning to look concerned on the outside, watching as Henry limps back to his feet – the ankle clearly an issue – and Long starts to motion to Henry to take it home and finish the job.
Henry nods, reaching down to bring Angle to his feet, sending the challenger off the ropes, setting up for a boot on the return … BUT ANGLE CATCHES THE BOOT!!!! HE TRIPS THE STANDING LEG … AND TURNS HENRY OVER – APPLYING THE ANKLE LOCK AGAIN!!!!! Henry is caught in the middle of the ring in a world of hurt, as Cole declares that Angle has levelled the playing field by taking Henry down, and Lawler adds that no matter how big or strong you are, the ankle lock will break anyone!! It’s the biggest test of Henry’s reign yet, as he has to gut it out … crawling his way to the ropes, whilst Angle rips and tears, with Heyman slapping the mat ferociously, demanding Henry taps …
BUT MARK HENRY EVENTUALLY WRAPS A HAND AROUND THE BOTTOM ROPE!!!!!
Both Angle and Heyman are left looking disheartened – it feels as if THAT was Angles big chance, and they both know it!! It shows just how much Angle took out of himself with that Ankle lock attempt, blowing hard on the mat, but at the behest of Heyman on the floor, he pushes himself further, trying to subdue Henry as the champion pulls himself to his feet by the ropes. Angle thinks he has Henry weakened, and looks to send him across to the corner – reversed by the Worlds Strongest Man – and Angle hits the corner hard!! Henry follows in – FEET UP FROM ANGLE!!
Henry looks dazed from the boots, staggering away, giving Angle time to perch himself into a seated position on the top rope – COMING OFF WITH A RARE CROSS BODY – BUT GETS CAUGHT BY HENRY!!!! The Worlds Strongest Man has Angle in the PERFECT position for the WORLDS STRONGEST SLAM … BUT HIS ANKLE GIVES WAY!!!! The stumble from Henry allows Angle to escape the clutches of the champion, and pushes Henry at he corner … THEN GOES BEHIND- ANGLE SLAM!!!!!!! COVER BY ANGLE…
1...2...HENRY KICKS OUT!!!!!
Michael Cole asks what will it take for Angle to win this match, having thrown the kitchen sink at the U.S Champion but STILL, he can’t put the big man away … with Lawler reminding Cole that there’s a reason why Mark Henry hasn’t lost since coming to Smackdown. Again, Angle throws big shots at Henry, keeping the champion under control as he tries to get up, then Angle takes off, running off the ropes, building speed to charge back at Henry-
BUT HENRY EXPLODES WITH A SHOULDER BLOCK THAT SENDS ANGLE FLYING ACROSS THE RING!!!!!
Still though, Henry is seriously hampered with his bad ankle, and takes his time to follow up, eventually dropping an elbow on the challenger, and staying there for the count … 1...2...KICK OUT!!!!! Again, Henry struggles to get up, looking pained as he puts pressure on the ankle to stand up. Henry gets to his feet, visibly wincing as he stands over Angle-
AS ANGLE EXPLODES FROM THE GROUND, GRABBING THE ANKLE-
BUT HENRY DROPS HIS FREE LEG ONTO ANGLE!!!!! 1…2...SHOULDER UP!!!!!
Angle survives again!!! A desperation move from Henry to stop the ankle lock, but it almost paid off, with Angle barely able to kick out of the leg drop. Once more, Henry is in severe pain as he pushes to his feet, but has his manager in the his ear from the outside, telling him to “suck it up, playa!!” clearly not wanting the Worlds Strongest Man to show any inkling of pain, with Henry now climbing the ropes … HE WANTS THE VADER BOMB-
BUT HE MISSES!!!!
ANGLE MOVED!!!!
AND ANGLE INSTANTLY REACHES FOR THE ANKLE AGAIN!!!!
Desperately, Angle tries to apply the hold, trying to turn the gargantuan champion over to fully apply the submission … but with his free leg, Henry KICKS Angle square in the face, and SECOND TIME to finally knock Angle off!!! Dazed by the force of the kicks, Angle is slow to rise, but has Heyman on the outside, SLAMMING his palms off the mat, trying to motivate Angle, telling him “HE’S WEAK – GRAB THAT ANKLE!! RIP IT OFF!!” … whilst on the other side of the ring, Theodore Long is warning Henry that he’s in danger, telling him “FINISH THIS NOW, PLAYA!!!” … as Angle grits his teeth…
But, instead of aiming for the ankle, he’s looking to rush at Henry-
AND GETS CAUGHT – AND INSTANTLY WORLDS STRONGEST SLAMMED BY MARK HENRY!!!!!!! 1...2...3!!!!!!!!!!
Winner: And STILL United States Champion – Mark Henry @ 11:46
On the outside, Theodore Long breathes a sigh of relief … but on the other side, Paul Heyman pulls his hands down his face, pulling at his own skin, having seen Angle make a HUGE error that just cost him the U.S Title. Gratefully, Long takes the U.S Title from ringside, and guides his wounded champion from the ring, with Henry limping badly on the foot, shaking his head as he climbs through the ropes. Indeed, Henry has to use the steps to get to the floor, rather than drop from the apron. The Worlds Strongest Man shuffles from ringside, lumbering up the ramp, as the effects of this war with Angle are clear to see.
Left inside the ring though, is the broken Kurt Angle. Hands covering his face, the Olympian is left to think about that huge lapse in judgment, when he had the Worlds Strongest Man in serious peril. He finally starts to sit up, and looks out to Heyman on the floor … who has nothing to say. Heyman shakes his head at Angle, and throws his hands up, unable to fathom what went through Angles mind at the end of the match up. Angle shakes his head – he has no answers seemingly – as he puts his head down … beaten again, and further away than ever before from reclaiming the WWE Championship.
**VIDEO PACKAGE**
WWE Production theme; “Triumphant Return” plays as the word flashes on screen-
~ TRADITION ~
Clips of RIC FLAIR getting an elaborate entrance, wearing the big gold belt … DUSTY RHODES raising his arms … GREG VALENTINE and RODDY PIPER staring one another down in the Dog Collar Match.
~ HISTORY ~
The smoking entrance for VADER … RIC FLAIR and STING ready to lock up … the ROAD WARRIORS walking to the ring … MAGNUM T.A battling TULLY BLANCHARD.
~ GLORY ~
‘HOLLYWOOD ’HULK HOGAN playing the WCW title on his way to the ring … RICKY STEAMBOAT & JAY YOUNGBLOOD winning the tag team titles … RIC FLAIR being hoisted onto the shoulders of his peers.
~ CELEBRATION ~
Jubilant scenes of STING winning the title in 1997 … DUSTY RHODES holding the NWA title in 1985 … RODDY PIPER defeating Hogan in 1996.
~ IS BACK!!
And now, shots of the stars of Monday Night Raw; PAUL LONDON … MISTER KENNEDY … SHAWN MICHAELS … BETH PHOENIX … NICK NEMETH … THE MASTER CRAFTSMEN … CM PUNK.
~ AFTER EIGHT YEARS ~
Clips of cheering fans, and fireworks going off at previous STARRCADE events.
~ STARRCADE ~
And the STARRCADE logo flashes across the screen-
~ RETURNS ~
{Big thank you to Hug Life for the Starrcade poster!!}
WWE STARRCADE | DECEMBER 28 | GREENSBORO NC
ONLY ON PAY PER VIEW
END PACKAGE
***
Back into the arena, and briefly, Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler show some love to the Raw brand, hyping up Starrcade; two weeks from tonight, and the main event which pits Shawn Michaels against Paul London for the World Title … but up next on THIS event is the four corners match for the WWE Tag Team Titles.
Before the entrances, there’s clips of the M.V.P vs. Kofi Kingston match on Smackdown, in which M.V.P (under orders) targeted the knee of Kofi Kingston, which put his participation in tonights event in doubt, but he WILL compete. Lawler quips that on the bright side, it’ll be a short nights work, inferring that the Caribbean Connection should be eliminated early…
**BRINGING THA HOOD 2 U**
Full of vibrancy, the always jumpy pair of JTG and Shad Gaspard; CRYME TYME look in great spirits ahead of this Tag Team Title opportunity. Cole reminds the fans that this is an ELIMINATION match tonight, meaning every team has their destiny in their own hands, and after coming close to snatching the titles two months ago, Cryme Tyme have another crack tonight … which probably leads to an off colour joke from Jerry Lawler about the pair stealing the gold instead.
**S.O.S**
The big time fan favourites in this match; THE CARIBBEAN CONNECTION make their entrance, but ALL the focus is on the condition of Kofi Kingstons knee after the number M.V.P done on it this past Friday on Smackdown. Cole makes a big song and dance about Carlito and Kofi being screwed out of a one on one title shot two weeks ago, and because of what happened on Friday, they’re probably already behind the eight ball tonight.
**PRICELESS**
It’s the entire harem; The Million Dollar Man leads out Jamie Noble and his own flesh and blood Ted Junior, whilst M.V.P lags behind, as ever, looking uncomfortable to be associated with FILTHY RICH. But, this could be his last night tied to the DiBiases; if he helps them win the titles, the Million Dollar Man has promised to release him from his contract to them. In the ring, Kofi has to calm Carlito down, with Carlito wanting a piece of M.V.P for what he did (or was forced to do) on Smackdown…
**DON’T WASTE MY TIME**
Last, but not least, the champions make their entrance; Melina arm in arm with her boyfriend Elijah Burke, whilst Wade Barrett walks ahead. Michael Cole puts over THE FIGHT FACTORY for what they’ve accomplished in just eight months on Smackdown, but calls the link up with Melina as the X-Factor, and with her cunning, they’ve dominated the division; retiring MNM and finding ways to hold off every challenge … and Cole has no doubt Melina has another plan up her sleeve tonight.
WWE Tag Team Championships:
!! FOUR CORNERS ELIMINATION MATCH !!
The Fight Factory w/Melina vs. The Caribbean Connection vs. Filthy Rich w/The Million Dollar Man & M.V.P vs. Cryme Tyme
As the ring empties, we’re told that it was decided by the drawing of straws earlier that Filthy Rich and the Fight Factory would start the match … but given the agreement between the teams, they’re reluctant to fight one another. Instead, Burke and Noble circle the ring … before Noble makes a quick slap of the arm onto KOFI!!! And that was no accident, they want the injured man in there early!! Kofi’s knee is HEAVILY wrapped, and he looks to his partner … but as they look to each other, NOBLE NAILS CARLITO WITH A STIFF FOREARM!!!!
Carlito is knocked off the apron, and Burke wastes no time tossing Kofi into the ring!!! Burke tries to stamp the leg, but Kingston is able to shift and roll, and avoid the attempts at getting at the weak point, eventually getting to the corner, where he looks trapped … but pulls himself up, and tries a kick on Eli – CAUGHT!!! Burke takes a little too long to tease though … ALLOWING KOFI TO CRACK HIM WITH AN ENZIGURI!!! Kofi then makes a tag to an unwitting JTG to avoid any damage!!!
JTG shrugs, and gets in the ring, as he and Burke tussle, but the focus is on how quickly Kofi had to get himself out of the ring, taking that as a sign of how bad his knee is. Meanwhile, the fired up Carlito is out for blood after the Noble cheap shot, but with the Million Dollar Man and M.V.P standing in his way, Carlito is prevented from getting at him, though he takes a swipe at Porter, which results in the referee having to leave the ring to settle things down.
As a result, with the official distracted, the tag champions look to use the opportunity to double team JTG … but Shad is in to cut off Wade Barrett … except the issues on the outside free up Ted Junior and Noble, and with the arrangement in place with the Fight Factory, they assist the champions to get the upper hand on Cryme Tyme!!! JTG is left isolated, and the champions work him over, with Shad having to step in and break a count after Burke delivers his elevated elbow drop.
Then, as JTG starts to fight back, the agreement between Filthy Rich and the Fight Factory is seen again as DiBiase Junior assists the champions by digging a knee into the back of JTG when he runs off the ropes!! Shad complains to the official, to no avail … as JTG gets nailed with a Bossman Slam from Barrett!!! 1...2...SHAD BREAKS IT UP AGAIN!!! The official gives Shad a stern warning this time, demanding he goes back onto the apron, whilst the champions continue to wear JTG out.
Burke is back in, and a sleeper is applied … but JTG again starts to fire up, breaking out of the hold, and a series of knockdowns on Eli (including a spot where M.V.P “missed” an attempted trip on JTG coming off the ropes) gives him a chance at a tag out … BUT NOBLE HELPS THE CHAMPIONS THIS TIME!!! He enters the ring, dragging JTG back, and as Shad tries to enter, the official holds him back again!!! But Carlito – either having seen enough of the 2 on 1 tactics, or just for a chance to get his own frustrations out – now enters the ring, and DROPKICKS Noble!!! Right hand to Burke, and an arm drag on the incoming Barrett!!!
And it all happens out of the referees vision as he continues to push Shad back onto the apron!!! But as Carlito goes to town on his rivals … young Ted DiBiase has snuck off the apron … AND YANKS KOFI KINGSTON DOWN – KICKING AT THE BAD KNEE!!!! Eventually, Carlito spots it, and comes after DiBiase, chasing after him around ringside … running right into the meddlesome Melina!!! She provides a distraction … as DiBiase runs around the ring, then nails Carlito from behind!!! The Million Dollar Man lectures M.V.P, telling him that’s what HE should be doing, with Porter seemingly ignoring his boss!!
But as all this happens … JTG is recovering in the ring … and making a TAG TO SHAD!!!!! And the big man hits the ring to clear house!!! Clothesline to Burke, clothesline to Barrett … then a DOUBLE clothesline!!! Noble tries to help the champions – BIG BOOT for his troubles!!! Shad sends Burke off the ropes – BIG back body drop!! And another big boot sends Barrett falling out of the ring!!! On the floor, Melina is SCREAMING at M.V.P to do something, and he slowly climbs onto the apron – GIVING SHAD TIME TO NAIL HIM WITH A BIG BOOT TOO!!!
Gaspard is nailed from behind though by DiBiase, with young Ted putting it to Shad, looking for a whip, but it’s reversed by Shad, and Shad scoops Ted up on the return … AND PRESS SLAMS HIM DOWN!!!! Burke is readying himself to attack … BUT JTG CUTS HIM OFF TOO!!! JTG is able to assist his partner, and they send Burke off the ropes … LOOKING FOR THE G9 … BUT NOBLE TRIPS THE BOOT OF JTG!!! That distracts JTG, and allows Barrett to return, bundling JTG through the ropes to the floor … as Burke escapes from the shoulders of Shad … as Wade CRACKS Shad with the BULLHAMMER!!!!! Burke has the cover … 1...2...3!!!!!
ELIMINATED – CRYME TYME (by The Fight Factory) @ 05:16
And it means the Caribbean Connection essentially have to overcome 2 on 1 odds now, with the Fight Factory and Filthy Rich clearly in cahoots. Melina has a devilish smirk on her face, as the Million Dollar Man demands his men get after Carlito and Kofi … specifically wanting to get Kofi in the ring with his injury … but Carlito – doing the selfless act – throws himself into the ring first to become the legal man. And Barrett goes right to work, putting the boots to Carlito, softening him up … to tag in Ted DiBiase Junior, as Melina tells her boys to “take a rest”, before telling Ted Senior, “time for your boys to hold up their end.”
But DiBiase is a little TOO cocky it seems. He points to the corner (where Kofi is trying to pull himself up) and tells Carlito to tag his partner … knowing Carlito can’t. But the cockiness backfires, as it leaves an opening for Carlito to fight back!!! He hits his springboard senton, and starts to set up for the BACK CRACKER … when MELINA climbs onto the apron, and the Fight Factory tease getting in to distract the official … allowing Noble to attack Carlito from behind … BUT CARLITO FIGHTS HIM OFF!!!!!
On the outside, DiBiase frantically tells M.V.P to earn his wage, and M.V.P nods, sliding into the ring … but Carlito is there waiting!! There’s a momentary stand off between the two, with words being traded … as Ted Junior gets back to his feet, seemingly thinking M.V.P is providing a distraction for him to attack Carlito from behind … BUT PORTER SHOVES CARLITO ASIDE … AND DRILLS DIBIASE JUNIOR WITH THE DRIVE BY KICK!!!!! On the outside, DiBiase Senior is flabbergasted!!! M.V.P just attacked Ted sons on purpose!!
And with that, M.V.P leaves the ring!!! On the apron, Melina is shocked … but motions for her men to stand BACK … she’s seeing the opportunity and is reneging on the deal with Filthy Rich!!! The Million Dollar Man is livid on the floor, confronting M.V.P as he leaves, asking what he thinks he’s doing … as the camera picks up the response from M.V.P; “My cheque bounced … again … so now?? I’m bouncin too!!” That leaves DiBiase shellshocked … as Carlito tosses Noble from the ring, covering DiBiase Junior … 1...2...3!!!!!
ELIMINATED – FILTHY RICH (by The Caribbean Connection) @ 08:00
And then there were two!! Two teams remain, but the immediate focus is on M.V.P and him abandoning Filthy Rich. Michael Cole asks how on earth money from the Million Dollar Man of all people wouldn’t clear, but explains that if M.V.P wasn’t paid, DiBiase was in breach of contract … and that appears to be the case tonight!! The Million Dollar Man is frozen still on the ramp, looking toward the ring, seeing his boy beaten … then lowers his head, and starts to leave!!!
Meanwhile, Melina snaps into focus, getting Burke and Barrett back in the match, dishing out instructions as Burke heads into the ring to face off with Carlito … as Barrett heads to the floor to attack Kofi on the other side of the ring … BUT CARLITO DUCKS UNDER THE SHOT FROM BURKE … AND DIVES TO THE FLOOR TO CUT OFF BARRETT!!!!! Carlito saves his partner, and looks to head back into the ring, but Melina rushes around to try and distract him, grabbing his leg until Kofi drags her off … but it’s long enough to allow Burke to strike and get the upper hand on Carlito!!!
And as Kofi puts Melina down … SHE KICKS HIM IN THE BAD KNEE, AND SLAPS HIM FOR GOOD MEASURE!!!!! The kick to the knee buckled Kofi, the slap distracted him … as Barrett has recovered and CHOP BLOCKS THE KNEE ON THE FLOOR!!!!! It’s going to be 2 on 1 for sure … and Carlito is already in trouble with Burke having the upper hand in the ring … ELIJAH EXPRESS!!! 1...2...CARLITO KICKS OUT!!!!! Carlito just survives, but the champions have the upper hand, and the cushion of knowing Carlito has no one to tag right now either!!!
The champions have the distinct advantage right now, and as they work over Carlito, the attention briefly switches back to the departure of DiBiase Junior and Noble, both at a loss as to what happened with M.V.P, and wondering why The Million Dollar Man just walked out on them. On the floor, Kofi is now being tended to by medics, with the injured superstar shaking his head, holding his knee, with his future in the match looking bleak at best. But back in the ring, Carlito is doing his best to hang on … having to contend with BOTH tag team champions. And that’s all he can do at this point; hang on.
Melina cheers her men on, seeing a perfect plan unfold, whilst the action crawls almost to a halt with a plethora of rest holds from Burke and Barrett as they take turns to work over the one fit member of the Caribbean Connection. Throughout the beat down, Cole continues to decry the situation that has hampered the challengers tonight, claiming that it isn’t fair for this to be how their title shot panned out. Still, Carlito hasn’t given up!! He battles the rest holds, putting up as much of a fight as he can, briefly exciting the fans with his flashy offence … until he is ultimately cut off again.
On the outside, Kofi is still being treated, but he eventually has enough, and starts pushing people away, shouting at them “NO!”, with Cole claiming that they’re trying to talk him into leaving for treatment. Kofi instead pulls himself to his feet … and DRAGS HIMSELF ONTO THE APRON!!! He may be injured, but he WON’T abandon his partner!!! Kofi does his best to cheer Carlito on from the apron, clapping his hands, as Carlito continues to TRY and fight off the champions to little satisfaction.
The Fight Factory tag again, sending Carlito toward the ropes – WHEN CARLITO JUMPS TO THE MIDDLE ROPE – AND BOUNCES BACK WITH A DOUBLE REVERSE ELBOW TO THE CHAMPIONS!!!!!! Carlito – out of instinct – crawls toward his corner … before realising Kofi is in no condition for a tag, despite Kingston calling for it. Carlito points to the knee, and shakes his head, saying to Kofi he can’t tag him … but it’s clear Carlito needs a tag. Carlito soldiers on though, much to the frustration of Kofi – even if Kingston may understand why.
Once again though, the champions regain control, and it appears as if they’ve drained Carlito, who has little left to offer at this point – the effects of battling two guys at once. An enziguri opens the door for him again though, and he looks to follow that by springboarding off the ropes – BUT BURKE LEVELS HIM FROM THE APRON!!!!! Carlito crashes and burns on the canvas … making him easy pickings for Barrett to finish him off … ONTO HIS SHOULDERS FOR THE WASTELAND …
WHEN KOFI MAKES THE BLIND TAG OFF THE LEG OF CARLITO!!!!!
Kingston may be injured, but he was left with no choice!!! After pulling Carlito off the shoulders of Barrett, Kofi climbs into the ring, basically on one leg, trying to fight off the brutish Brit, but ONE kick to the knee kills off the “hot” tag. Barrett then knocks Carlito to the floor, and tags in Burke to let him finish the job … ELIJAH EXPERIENCE- NO!!!! Kofi escapes, ducks a shot – S.O.S!!!!!! 1...2...NO!!!!!!! Burke gets the shoulder up … and as soon as Eli kicks out, Wade is in to stomp on Kofi!!!
Burke tags Barrett back in, and Wade wastes little time – he knows what he wants to do … AND APPLIES A FIGURE FOUR TO KOFI KINGSTON!!!!! A move Barrett NEVER uses, but it’s for a very specific reason tonight!!! Kingston is in a world of hurt, clenching his fists as he desperately tries to stop himself from tapping … hoping against hope that Carlito can come to his aid. He bits his own knuckles to try and block the pain, whilst Melina goads him from the floor, telling Kingston to tap and give up … with Kofi losing the battle, seemingly ready to give in-
WHEN CARLITO HILO’S INTO THE RING ONTO BARRETT, BREAKING THE HOLD!!!!!
Carlito saves Kofi … but he’s instantly forced back to the outside by the official!!! Carlito argues, which only wastes more time … and allows Elijah Burke to sneak in behind the referees back, picking up Kingston … and this time DELIVERS THE ELIJAH EXPERIENCE!!!!! Burke then shoves the referee aside, and tackles Carlito down, keeping him occupied … as Wade Barrett climbs onto Kingston for the win … with Melina having to scream at the official to get his attention away from the Carlito/Eli fight … 1...2...CARLITO BREAKS THE COUNT!!!!!
Carlito JUST got away from Burke in time to launch himself to break the count!!! Burke is right behind him, as the champions – under strict orders from Melina – look to finish off Carlito before ending Kofi, taking Carlito to the floor, putting the boots to him, taking Carlito out of the equation, sending him into the STEPS!!!!! Carlito taken care of, it leaves just Kofi … BUT KOFI HAS SOMEHOW DRAGGED HIMSELF TO HIS FEET … AND SLINGSHOTS HIMSELF OVER THE ROPES TO SPLASH ONTO THE CHAMPIONS ON THE OUTSIDE!!!!!!
Kingston takes out the champions, but he CAN’T get up!!! He has to pull the apron to pull himself up … as MELINA looks to insert herself – BUT KOFI GRABS HER!!!!! Kofi has Melina by the hair, looking to the fans for approval before striking a woman … but at the same time, Wade Barrett has gotten up … AND LOOKS FOR A BIG RIGHT HAND ON KOFI-
BUT KOFI DUCKS … AND BURKE ACCIDENTALLY CRACKS MELINA!!!!!!!
Burke’s eyes bug open, having nailed his manager AND GIRLFRIEND … then turns, coming for Kofi … BUT WALKS INTO A DROP TOE HOLD FROM KINGSTON – FACE FIRST INTO THE STEPS!!!!!!
Melina is OUT, Burke is OUT … BUT BARRETT CLIPS THE KNEE FROM BEHIND!!!!! And the wind comes out of Kofi’s sails!!! Barrett tosses Kingston back into the ring, pushing him to the corner, laying into Kofi with his well publicised bareknuckle fighting skills before setting the bad leg on the ropes … setting up for an attack in the corner … BUT AS HE RUSHES IN – CARLITO SPRINGBOARDS INTO THE RING WITH A CLOTHESLINE TO CUT HIM OFF!!!!! BACK IN THE NICK OF TIME!!!!!
But, as Carlito picks Barrett up to throw him out of the ring … Burke has snuck back inside, AND LINES UP THE ELIJAH EXPRESS TO KOFI … BUT KOFI SWINGS OUT ONTO THE ROPES – BURKE HITS THE BUCKLES … AND STAGGERS BACK-
BACK CRACKER FROM CARLITO ON BURKE-
TROUBLE IN PARADISE FROM KOFI!!!!!
BACK CRACKER FROM PARADISE!!!!!!!! Carlito initially steps forward to make the cover, then realises Kofi is the legal man; KOFI COVERS … 1...2...3!!!!!!!!!!
NEW CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!
ELIMINATED – THE FIGHT FACTORY (by The Caribbean Connection) @ 17:44
Winners: And NEW WWE Tag Team Champions – The Caribbean Connection @ 17:44
THEY’VE DONE IT!!! NEARLY EIGHTEEN MONTHS AFTER FORMING THEIR TEAM, CARLITO AND KOFI KINGSTON ARE CHAMPIONS!!!!! Michael Cole talks about the trials and tribulations this pair have had to overcome; they’ve been overlooked at times, screwed at others, they’ve had to deal with family betrayals, and they had to overcome a severe injury for Kofi tonight … yet with their backs against the wall, the Caribbean Connection have defeated the odds!!!!!
Carlito and Kofi are presented their titles, with Kofi hugging the gold tightly – his first championship in the WWE – whilst Carlito looks at his belt, staring at it longingly – before looking to his partner, and the pair embrace with a hug in the middle of the ring!!! On commentary, Cole puts over the efforts of BOTH men tonight; Carlito having to carry the team for the most part due to the injury Kofi came in with, but Cole insists that Kofi played his part too in the end.
On the outside, Wade Barrett has his hands on his head, whilst Elijah is slowly rolling out of the ring, and Melina is still flattened on the outside from the errant shot from Burke. In the ring, Carlito and Kofi continue to soak up the win, with Kingston struggling, but eventually getting onto the middle ropes, to hold the title aloft. Carlito smiles too, holding his title up in the middle of the ring, making sure to catch the attention of the FORMER champions.
Backing off, the Fight Factory shake their heads, with Barrett having to put Melina over his shoulder, carrying her limp body up the ramp, and Burke spaghetti legged, holding his head. Back in the ring, we get one more shot of Kofi and Carlito, with Kingston putting his arm around the shoulder of Carlito, seemingly close to tears, having went through hell tonight – which Cole points out on commentary. Lawler adds that Kofi is going to be in a lot of pain tomorrow when the adrenaline wears off … but it’ll be a big night of celebrations for the Connection tonight; and they earned it!!!
**VIDEO PACKAGE**
The video opens in what appears to be a quiet home, lights mostly off, decorated for Christmas … before the light comes on, and what appears to be Santa sits down on his couch, taking a long, deep breath after a hard nights work.
“‘Twas the night after Christmas, when all through the house,
Every creature was stirring, much louder than a mouse.”
And suddenly, the action picks up, as kids come rushing into the room, leaping onto the couch, in between shots of a plethora of Smackdown superstars in action.
“Because live on Sci-Fi, they brought Friday Night Smackdown,
And for your viewing pleasure, The Undertaker rode into town.”
~GONG~
Clips of The Undertaker sitting up, delivering a Tombstone, a Chokeslam, Old School, and even the Deadman Tope.
“The children were nestled, all snug in front of the T.V,
Watching as a WWE Championship Match unfolded for free.”
Instead of showing any individual, there’s simply a long shot of the WWE Championship belt, followed by excited looking fans, cheering fans in arenas and fireworks.
“When what to my wondering eyes did appear,
But a Texas Rattlesnake, drinking a beer.”
Shots of Steve Austin through the years, downing beers.
“With a pick up truck so big and so bold
I knew in a moment it must be Stone Cold!”
And driving into arena’s in a Pick Up Truck, including the Stunner on D’Lo on the hood in 1997.
“But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight;
Happy Christmas to all, and to all-”
**GLASS SHATTERS**
We cut back to the home, where the camera zooms in on Santa … and STONE COLD STEVE AUSTIN rips off the beard, and the hat from the Santa suit to reveal himself.
“Gimme a HELL YEAH!!!”
FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN | DECEMBER 26 | MILWAUKEE WI
LIVE!! THE NIGHT AFTER CHRISTMAS
END PACKAGE
***
In the locker room, TED DIBIASE SENIOR is shown rather abruptly packing his bag, taking no time to place anything or fold anything, he’s just throwing everything in. Walking into the shot, is his son, TED JUNIOR, knowing immediately that something is up, and asks his father what’s going on, saying he knows something’s up; first M.V.P double crossed them, now he’s seeing his Dad pack his own luggage, before adding that their driver just left without them, and also mentions that earlier today, his credit card was declined.
Momentarily setting his bag down, the Million Dollar Man looks his boy in the eye, holding him by the arms, and telling Junior that he loves him … “but your Pops has to go away for a little while.” Confused, Junior reactively asks, “but what about me, Dad?? What about guiding my career?? We’ve barely got started!” There’s a brief pause, with the Million Dollar Man looking at his boy with sadness … then picks up his bag, before telling Ted “time to stand on your own two feet, kiddo.”
Still confused, Junior refuses to let his dad go, demanding to know what’s happened so suddenly. With a great deal of sadness, the Million Dollar Man sighs, before explaining to his son that the recession has hit everyone hard over the last few months … “and even the Million Dollar Man has paid the price of it.” Briefly, the Million Dollar Man affords himself a chuckle, shakes his head, and mutters “Million Dollar Man – not any more.” DiBiase hugs his son, then leaves the room, leaving behind his mollycoddled son to finally have to fend for himself.
Frozen, numb, Ted Junior is silent … as the camera pans back to show that JAMIE NOBLE was there the entire time, listening to the heartfelt father/son moment. He walks forward, peeking out the door, then shrugs as he shuts the door behind him, and gives his tag partner a rather hard slap to the shoulder … “I guess I don’t gotta call ya Junior no more. And hey, don’t worry about nothin!! I got a spare sleepin bag in my old trailer y’can use. I knew that old thing would come in useful again one day!!”
Elsewhere, we see THE BRIAN KENDRICK for the LAST time as a Smackdown talent … but he looks at peace as he’s escorted out of the building. Friendly, Kendrick says goodbye as he passes people, telling others he’ll see them down the road … as he departs the building without incident, without any drama … just simply … at peace.
Back into the arena, and at ringside, Cole and Lawler are both at a loss for words at the demeanour of The Brian Kendrick. Lawler asks if Kendrick is maybe concussed (not a good question to ask flippantly in 2008) and wonders if Kendrick knows he’s GONE from Smackdown as of now?? Cole admits he has no idea what to make of that behaviour … but moves on to provide an update on the condition of FINLAY, who was taken to a local medical facility as a precaution due to damage done to his throat, with a suspected larynx related injury, but they “hope” Finlay will be fit to appear on Smackdown this Friday – or at least, the night after Christmas.
Moving on though, the graphic shows for Jeff Hardy vs. Christian – two men that certainly WILL be part of Smackdown going forward, and one of whom will be challenging for the WWE Championship in less than two weeks on the night after Christmas – as that match up is coming right up…
**NO MORE WORDS**
Moment of truth time for JEFF HARDY, as he hits the stage, flailing his arms around, getting himself into the zone ahead of the biggest match he’s had in years. Lawler and Cole discuss the backlash to Jeff being handed a title shot – something Jeff has owned and accepted – but the pressure is on Jeff to shut the doubters up tonight and prove himself worthy of the spot, and book a date with destiny against the WWE Champion on December 26…
**JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES**
But standing in his way is CHRISTIAN!! The reaction isn’t as hot as it was four months ago, but Christian remains one of the most popular stars on the roster, despite his head not being quite in it since SummerSlam. His quotes from Smackdown are discussed, and his apparent (over?)confidence is questioned, but he has the perfect chance to back it up … and Jeff has the perfect chance to take advantage of Christian too … IF Christian really doesn’t have his head in the game.
#1 CONTENDERS MATCH:
Jeff Hardy vs. Christian
~ Winner Challenges WWE Champion on Dec. 26 LIVE edition of Smackdown ~
There’s enough respect between the two men to start with a handshake … BUT JEFF QUICKLY YANKS CHRISTIAN IN – CRADLE – 1...2...NO!!!! Christian just escapes, having nearly come a cropper in the opening seconds!!! Back to his feet, Christian applauds the attempt from Jeff, as Lawler notes that if Christian was sleepwalking into this match, that just woke him up. Despite the exciting start … from there, it follows a more traditional style of match. They circle, lock up, trading wrist locks back and forth with Jeff using fancier ways of turning things around to his advantage, including springing off the ropes, flipping etc.
Christian keeps things simple on his end, and seemingly has enough of Jeffs flash reversals and counters by ending the sequence with a straightforward clothesline!!! From there, Christian takes control, applying a side headlock on Jeff for a short period until Hardy pushes back to his feet, and pushes Christian off the ropes … only for Captain Charisma to return with a shoulder block to knock Jeff back down. With Jeff down, Christian takes off, hitting the ropes, but Jeff bounces right back up, meeting Christian with a hip toss attempt- no dice. Christian blocks it, and looks for a clothesline again, but Jeff ducks it, and school boys Christian; 1...2...NO!!!!!
Jeff nearly caught Christian again!! This time though, there’s no respect back, Christian comes right after Jeff off it, but Hardy is quicker, and snaps off an arm drag, and a second, and a third, before trapping the arm for an arm lock. Cole talks about being impressed with Jeff early on, saying he clearly isn’t overawed by the occasion, though Lawler has to question if this is maybe just a sign that Christian isn’t on his A-game. Jeff seemingly has things in control with the arm lock, but Christian soon makes use of his big match nous, and cleverly yanks Jeff down by the hair!! It gets him a telling off from the referee, but ultimately, it’s got him in control.
Christian sends Jeff off to the corner, following in – but eats an elbow from Jeff!!! Hardy quickly leaps to the top, facing the audience, looking to hit something high risk onto Christian … but Christian rushes back in and SHOVES JEFF FROM THE TOP TO THE BARRIER!!!! It’s a NASTY landing for Jeff on the outside!!! Christian considers following out … but instead elects to make Jeff get himself back inside – he can win this by count out. Lawler calls it a test of how much Jeff really wants this title shot, and despite breathing raggedly, wincing as he moves, Hardy forces himself to crawl back in whilst favouring his ribs … and beats the count at EIGHT.
But he’s easy prey for Christian. Clearly content to take on the pseudo heel role tonight, Christian stomps at Jeffs ribs, before throwing Hardy into the ropes, stepping up onto the back of his opponent, choking Jeff, pulling up at the ropes – vintage Christian. The referee tells him off, but Christian doesn’t listen, and instead leaps over the ropes, onto the floor, before SLAPPING the taste out of Jeffs mouth; another sequence right out of Christians playbook. Climbing back up, Christian continues to the top rope, setting himself … hitting a reverse elbow once Jeff is up!!! 1...2...NO!!!
Keeping on Jeff, Christian exerts his authority, scoring another near fall off a gutbuster, before applying a backbreaker submission to test the resolve of Hardy too with the earlier rib injury playing a factor. And Christian finds out that Jeff has plenty of it – he battles to escape the hold, and rocks Christian with right hands, beating the former 3x World Champion to the punch, slowing Christian down, allowing Jeff to take off and run the ropes, ducking a swing from Christian, before bouncing back and looking for a LEAPING clothesline at Christian … but Christian steps aside!!!! Jeff crashes onto the canvas, looking a little stupid because of it, as Cole notes that Christian clearly had that scouted.
Affording himself a chuckle, Christian gets back at it, bringing Jeff to his feet, shooting him off the ropes … but Jeff surprises Christian, sliding under on the return, and catching Christian as he spins around; Inverted Atomic Drop!!! Jeff takes Christian down with a double leg, and nails a double leg drop to the mid section of Captain Charisma!! That gives Jeff the opening, and he follows that with a front dropkick, straight into the hook of the leg, 1...2...NO!!! Still favouring his ribs, Jeff quickly gets to his feet, popping off another dropkick on Christian and ANOTHER … which sees Christian elect to roll to the floor for a powder – something that doesn’t go unnoticed on commentary.
And Jeff isn’t going to give Christian a time out either!! He slides out on another side of the ring, and jumps onto the rails … RUNNING THE RAILS … AND LEAPS OFF AT AN UNEXPECTING CHRISTIAN TO TAKE HIM DOWN!!!!! The fans pop for that spot, as Jeff gets up, shouting “COME OHHHN!!” at the audience, pumping himself up as he tosses Christian back inside. With Christian in the ring, Jeff heads up top, perching himself waiting for Christian to get back up … CROSS BODY … BUT CHRISTIAN ROLLS THROUGH WITH IT, HOOKING THE LEG … 1...2...JEFF KICKS OUT!!!!! Both men bounce up, but Jeff strikes first with a kick – swinging neckbreaker!!! 1...2...NO!!!!
Christian struggles back up, and eats right hands from Jeff, before Hardy looks for a Side Suplex – but Christian BACKFLIPS out of it, and SETS UP THE UNPRETTIER- NO!!! Jeff shoves Christian away, Christian comes back – RIGHT INTO A JAWBREAKER!!! That one leaves Christian on wobbly legs, as Jeff tries to follow with a kick- CAUGHT by Christian – but Jeff recovers with a MULE KICK!!!!! Christian gets bundled into the corner, giving Jeff the opportunity for his HARDIAC ARREST slingshot dropkick to his opponent!!! It’s Jeff in the ascendancy, with Cole again reiterating that Jeff is rising to the occasion tonight.
Jeff’s suplex slam comes next, with Christian unable to do anything to stop it, another cover; 1...2...Christian kicks out again!! Jeff is prowling in wait as Christian struggles back up, with Hardy getting the fans pumping … meeting Christian with a kick to the gut; TWIST OF FATE – NO!!! CHRISTIAN COUNTERS – INVERTED BACKBREAKER!!!!! Christian turns the tables in a heartbeat … 1...2...JEFF KICKS OUT!!!! Christian sits up from the kick out, shaking his head, seemingly thinking that surprise backbreaker would’ve done it … and maybe also beginning to realise it’s a tougher test than he previously imagined.
Christian brings Jeff to his feet, sending Hardy to the corner … but instead of hitting the corner, Jeff instead runs himself to the top rope – COMING OFF WITH A WHISPER IN THE WIND TO CHRISTIAN!!!! He has him again; 1...2...KICK OUT!!!! Jeff nearly got him again!!! They get back up, and it’s Jeff that wants it more, catching Christian with a clothesline … and another … and a third … before coming off the ropes with a BIG leaping clothesline, and this time, Christian isn’t sidestepping to make a fool out of Jeff!!!
Cole goes into overdrive about Jeff taking it to the former 3x World Champion, and Lawler chips in by saying right now you’d be forgiven for thinking Jeff was the former champion and Christian the one that’s been gifted an opportunity!! And Jeff feels it too!! Hardy yells out again, feeding off his momentum, bringing Christian back up, with Christian swinging at him, missing wildly – and getting caught with a REVERSE DDT FROM HARDY!!!!! But NO cover from Jeff this time!!! He has Christian down, and he’s going nowhere … so Jeff HEADS UP TOP!!! Setting himself, Jeff is going for it all here – SWANTON BOMB …
CONNECTS!!!!!!!! 1...2...3!!!!!!! JEFF HARDY IS THE #1 CONTENDER-
NO!!!!!!!
CHRISTIAN HAD A FOOT ON THE ROPE!!!!!!!!
Instantly, hearing the three count, Jeff assumes he’s won, as do many of the fans, but Charles Robinson is forced to point out to Hardy that Christian got his foot on the rope, breaking the heart of Hardy!!!! Forlorn, Jeff walks around the ring, running his fingers through his hair in frustration, having his title shot ripped away from him, whilst Lawler talks about Christians big match experience saving him on that occasion … but it could be simply delaying the inevitable, as Hardy comes back, dragging Christian from the mat, kicking him in the gut- TWIST OF FATE-
BUT CHRISTIAN SPINS OUT OF IT – TRAPPING JEFF AS HE TURNS-
WITH A BACKSLIDE; 1...2...3!!!!!!!!!
Winner: Christian @ 14:50
*CHALLENGES WWE CHAMPION ON DEC. 26*
Jeff kicked and wriggled – but just couldn’t escape the backslide!!! Christian got him!!!!! Jeff is sat on the mat, broken hearted as the announcement comes down; it’s Christian that’s getting the title shot on December 26!!!!! Despite Jeff dominating the closing stretch, Christian pulled the rabbit out of the hat to get the win!!! Jeff stays on the canvas, sat with his head down, buried into his knees, clearly devastated at being caught like that when he had everything in hand.
Meanwhile, Christian looks relieved, embarrassed even, perhaps, as he has his hand raised, knowing he was second best for much of this contest. Cole and Lawler say as much themselves, though Lawler notes that that’s the sign of a proven winner; “if y’can’t be good – be lucky, Michael!!” … Christian breathes a sigh of relief after eeking out the win, and stands over Jeff for a moment … before reaching a hand down, offering to help Hardy up – which generates cheers in the arena.
Still upset, Jeff initially looks away, but after a shake of the head, Hardy turns his head back to Christian … and accepts the hand, with Christian pulling Jeff to his feet. Cheers greet the show of sportsmanship, and the two men share a few words, with Christian most likely offering some sort of consolation to Jeff … before Captain Charisma elects to leave the ring, giving Jeff the moment to himself. Jeff stands in the ring, getting a decent response (probably not quite as strong as the one Morrison got, because it was earlier, and the law of diminishing returns) with his hands on his hips, head down.
Eventually looking up, and mouthing “Sorry” … still clearly upset at his loss, Jeff then thanks the fans with an applause of his own … and leaves the ring, slapping hands with outstretched arms from fans. Cole and Lawler continue to put over the effort of Hardy tonight, saying that even though he lost, he proved “beyond a shadow of a doubt” (okay, steady on) that he belonged in such an important match … and Cole wouldn’t be surprised if he’s back in the hunt again before long.
**VIDEO PACKAGE**
Opening in silence at a big New Years Eve gathering, the crowd get ready to count down before the sound is heard from them;
“TEN”
Cut straight to a boxing match, and a fallen fighter trying to beat the count – again, silence accompanies the pictures – until the referee makes the count of;
“NINE”
Sharply, the footage cuts again to a … microwave … as it counts down and stops at 00:08, with the person watching it speaking;
“EIGHT”
Straight to the hit TV show, ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and Len Goodman making his bellowing announcement as he holds up his scoreboard;
“SEV-AHHHHN”
Directly into a space shuttle sat waiting for lift off-
“SIX”
And to WWE referee Mike Chioda issuing a count to the outside of the ring on an unseen wrestler with the audio cutting everything out except his voice;
“FIVE”
Switch to a big field … and children running in differing directions … with one standing with their back to the rest, facing a tree, covering their eyes, playing ‘Hide and Seek’…
“FOUR”
Old school, a clip from the famous show ‘Thunderbirds’ and it’s own iconic countdown scenes;
“THREE”
And to a pre-school classroom, with the teacher pointing at the number 2 on the board, with the kids responding in kind…
“TWO”
Before arriving at last years Royal Rumble, and the excited fans counting at-
“ONE”
Into darkness…
~ BUZZER ~
Cut to shots of a collection of superstars that could/hope/expect to be part of the upcoming Royal Rumble; JOHN CENA, R-TRUTH, PAUL LONDON, JOHN MORRISON, SHELTON BENJAMIN, EDGE.
“There’s only ONE countdown that matters…”
More interspersed shots of superstars in action; MR. KENNEDY, BATISTA, THE MIZ, KURT ANGLE, REY MYSTERIO AND RANDY ORTON.
“There’s only ONE way to kick off the Road to WrestleMania…”
Flashing shots of the old school Royal Rumble logos, and clips of a full ring at past Rumbles, along with the more recent ones too.
“And it’s…”
Quick clips of superstars over the years being thrown over, dumped over, launched or sneaked over the top rope and eliminated from past Royal Rumbles.
“OVER.”
Shawn Michaels epic return to the ring in 1995 to topple Davey Boy Smith when the Bulldog thought he’d won-
“THE.”
Triple H coming back from Quad Surgery to win the Royal Rumble, clotheslining Kurt Angle to the floor in 2002.
“TOP!!!”
Austin celebrating his win in 1998, John Cena on the turnbuckles in 2005 after winning, Christian on his knees after victory in 2007, and Edge pointing to the WrestleMania logo last year, over the iconic audio from Jim Ross…
“WHO’S GOIN TO WRESTLEMANIA!?”
WWE ROYAL RUMBLE | JANUARY 25 | TORONTO ON
“IT’S OVER THE TOP”
ONLY ON PAY PER VIEW
END PACKAGE
***
After that teaser for the Royal Rumble next month, Cole and Lawler start to excitedly discuss the annual tradition, reminding the audience that the winner goes to on to challenge the champion of his choosing at WrestleMania … which transitions nicely to the next match, as it features last years Rumble winner; EDGE, and the graphic shows up for Edge vs Batista, with Lawler throwing it out there that both guys will be favourites for the 30 Man Rumble in January, and one of them will close out 2008 undefeated in singles competition on PPV…
The video package for the EDGE/BATISTA match airs, putting plenty of focus on both men having big years in 2008 – no one more than Edge, who won the Rumble, headlined WrestleMania and held the WWE Title for six months. Edge qualified for the Rumble at the expense of Batista, who had to take a different route for success over the last twelve months, winning the U.S Title, holding it for almost six months, before beating The Undertaker as clean as a whistle at No Mercy.
This issue exploded once more in October when Batista screwed Edge out of the WWE Championship, and the two have been at each others throats ever since … but it’s taken until now for the issue to come to a head. With Batista still chasing a first WWE Title and Edge desperately wanting to win back the gold he held for much of the year, the route to get there is through one another. Neither man has lost a (scheduled) one on one match on PPV in 2008 … but only one will end the year with that record in tact.
Back into the arena…
**I WALK ALONE**
There’s a strong reaction for The Animal – a big mix of cheers and boos – but either way, it doesn’t shake the belief of BATISTA, who sets off his impressive pyro display before marching down the ramp ahead of a huge grudge match. Cole and Lawler focus on the fact that neither Batista or Edge have lost a (scheduled) singles match on PPV this year, picking up wins over Taker and Orton respectively … but tonight, one of them will lose.
**METALINGUS**
EDGE enters – as ever – through the smoke on stage before setting off his own impressive pyro display on his way to the ring. Batista paces in the ring, gearing up for what promises to be a war, whilst Edge takes an extra few moments on the ramp, shaking his hands loose, and a few extra deep breaths … before sliding into the ring. Batista is willing to wait, as Edge removes his jacket – this one will get underway the old fashioned way.
The Final Showdown:
Edge vs. Batista
And neither man wastes any time going for a lock up. They tussle, but it’s Batista that wins out – naturally – overpowering Edge and shoving him down!! Snarling, Edge is right back up, right back into a lock up, keen to prove a point … but it’s ‘as you were’, with Big Dave shoving Edge down again. But AGAIN, Edge isn’t prepared to accept that, coming for a third time, and this time, they tussle around the ring, with The Animal unable to throw Edge down this time. They eventually wind up backed into the corner, which forces the official to step in, and force a break.
Slowly, they part … both men wary of the other taking a cheap shot … but it’s a clean break … until Edge shoves Batista in the chest once they’re apart!! Batista shoves back, then shoves again – shoving Edge DOWN … but the Rated ‘R’ Superstar – just as he did earlier – bounces back up, and this time, there’s no locking up; it’s a FIST FIGHT!!! Edge peppers Batista being the quicker of the two, flinging wild shots at Batista’s general direction, forcing The Animal to put a stop to it with a knee to the gut!! Batista uses that to bounce off the ropes, darting back at Edge – who stuns Big Dave with a hip toss!!! Batista rushes up – right into a Modified Bulldog!! Cover, 1...2...Batista kicks out!!!
Briefly, Batista retreats to the corner off the kick out to regroup, with Edge fired up, calling him on. Wisely though, The Animal takes a moment to settle, regaining his bearings, as Cole calls it a wise strategy from The Animal, not getting caught up in emotions. The two men circle again, locking up once more – which Lawler says Edge is stupid for trying – but it’s Edge that quickly shifts into a side headlock, albeit only briefly. Batista shoves him off, and takes Edge off his feet with a big shoulder block … then hurriedly looks to get Edge into position for a BATISTA BOMB-
BUT EDGE IMMEDIATELY SCRAMBLES OUT!!! Way too early for that, and Cole says as much … though Lawler suggests it was merely a warning from Batista. They reach in again, but Batista goes low with a knee to the gut immediately, doubling Edge over, sending him off the ropes, but MISSES a clothesline, and EATS a spinning heel kick from Edge!!! 1...Not even a two count!!! Edge is up quickly, and on the move, looking to keep Batista busy. He runs off the ropes – RUNNING RIGHT INTO A SIDEWALK SLAM FROM THE ANIMAL!!!!! 1...2...KICK OUT!!!!
Edge gets the shoulder up, but he’s in trouble, with Batista not giving him a second to breathe, tossing him through the ropes to the floor and following out to continue the punishment, initially ramming the former WWE Champion into the barrier. The Animal then hoists Edge up, onto his shoulder, and LAWN DARTS Edge into the ring post … before DROPPING him face first onto the ring apron!!! That leaves Edge staggering, and easy pickings for Batista (after Dave rolled in and out to break the count) to deliver a SUPLEX ON THE FLOOR!!!! The suplex almost takes as much out of Batista, but it appears as if the Animal is prepared to harm himself in order to harm Edge more!!
Tossing Edge back inside, Batista winces momentarily, selling the effects of the suplex on himself, before continuing the beatdown, charging Edge into the corner, and driving shoulders into the gut of his foe, over and over, taking the wind out of the Rated ‘R’ Superstar, before hip tossing Edge – throwing him like a child!!! Edge gets up, but isn’t able to put a fight up, as Batista gets him in position; side suplex!! 1...2...NO!! Batista does a little bit of trash talking as he drags Edge back up, shooting Edge off the ropes, but Edge hangs on, not returning – forcing Batista to rush at Edge – Edge drops down and back body drops The Animal up and over to the floor!!!!! Edge then follows with a baseball slide, then-
A SOMERSAULT SENTON TO THE FLOOR ONTO BATISTA!!!!!!
Edge is pulling out ALL the big guns tonight!!! Cole and Lawler put across both men throwing everything at one another here – a true battle of ‘heavy hitters’ bringing all their mite – with Edge turning the tide thanks to a big risk move, and tosses Batista back inside. Edge himself climbs to the top, picking his moment for Big Dave to stand up – MISSILE DROPKICK!!! 1...KICK OUT!!! Again – only a one count!!! Edge acknowledges the count too – that’s two one counts – but Edge still has control, and he stomps at Batista in the corner, keeping his rival subdued, then sends Batista off the ropes, ducking for the return … but Batista KICKS him away!!!
Batista lines up a clothesline – Edge ducks – and catches the Animal with a FLAPJACK!! This time, Edge elects NOT to cover, and instead stalks Batista as he struggles up … AND GOES FOR THE EDGECUTION – BUT BATISTA CUTS IT OFF BY CHARGING EDGE INTO THE CORNER!!! And there, he DRIVES his shoulder into the gut of Edge again!!! Fired up, Batista sends Edge hurtling across the ring to the opposite corner at speed, following in with a corner clothesline!!! Batista scoops Edge up, looking for a running POWERSLAM out of the corner … BUT EDGE SLIPS OUT THE BACK – EDGE-O-MATIC!!!!! 1...2...KICK OUT!!!!
And that time, Edge did get the near fall, but not the three. Cole and Lawler start to discuss both men being so hard to beat in one on one competition over this last year, and how we’re seeing that all unfold here, as they throw bomb after bomb at one another. And now, Edge is lining up his BIGGEST bomb; the SPEAR!! He lies in wait, watching as Batista pulls himself up … AND CHARGES-
SPEAR-
NO!!! BATISTA LEAPFROGS EDGE!!!!!
Incredible feat of athleticism from The Animal – and as a result, Edge CRASHES into the corner!!! He never expected that!! Batista quickly follows up, dragging Edge out of the corner, hooking him up, into the air in the suplex position – then SLAMS Edge; JACKHAMMER FROM BATISTA!!!!! 1...2...EDGE KICKS OUT!!!!! Batista shakes his head, but doesn’t let the kick out affect him too much, and instead looks to make no doubt about it – by LOADING UP FOR THE BATISTA BOMB!!!!! He sets Edge into position, and gets him up … WHEN EDGE FRANTICALLY POUNDS THE SKULL OF BATISTA … AND MANAGES TO BREAK FREE!!! He throws bombs at Batista, and looks to send The Animal to the corner-
Reversed by Batista!! And The Animal follows in for a clothesline – but Edge darts out of the corner!! Batista collides with the turnbuckles, and Edge races in, with a Spear variation – spearing the BACK of Batista, and crushing The Animals sternum against the turnbuckles!!! Hoisting Batista up, Edge gets him seated onto the top turnbuckle, and climbs up behind Batista … AND EXECUTES A SIDE SUPLEX FROM THE TOP ROPE!!!!! Both men stay down after impact, as Cole again hypes the lengths these two are willing to go – needing to go – to put the other man away!! The referee reaches the count of SEVEN … before Edge finally drapes an arm over Batista … 1...2...KICK OUT!!!!!
Despite the kick out, Edge is thinking SPEAR again, after it missed earlier. Lawler wonders if one spear would even be enough to keep Batista down … and Cole says we might be about to find out. Edge sets himself … ready to explode out of the corner as he waits for Batista to stand up … peeling away from the ropes … EDGE SPRINTS FOR THE SPEAR … BUT BATISTA PUTS A KNEE UP TO BLOCK IT!!!!! Edge stumbles after that impact, with Big Dave spinning him around – WANTING THE BATISTA BOMB – BUT EDGE BACK DROPS OUT OF IT!!!! Batista is back up, but Edge trips him … AND QUICKLY APPLIES HIS EDGECATOR!!!!!
Edges RARELY seen submission hold!!!!! It’s mentioned on commentary that this is a rare sight from Edge, and perhaps a sign that he’s having to dig deep to find a way to put Batista away, whilst it’s also something Batista may not have prepared for – while he clearly was ready for the Spear – and now, The Animal is in a world of trouble!!! He scratches and claws along the canvas … with Edge pulling, desperately trying to draw the submission from the bigger man … but he can’t get it … AND BATISTA GRABS THE ROPES!!!!! Edge looks disappointed when he has to break the hold, disheartened even, as he struggles to find a way to beat Batista.
But he may find some solace in the fact that Batista immediately rolls to the outside after the break. Batista looks to regroup, shaking his leg out, leaning on the apron … and Edge isn’t prepared to wait, he climbs out of the ring, building up steam – Batista hasn’t any idea what’s about to come around the corner … AND EDGE CATCHES BATISTA WITH A SPEAR ON THE FLOOR!!!! Finally, Edge scores with the Spear … but quickly, it’s evident he isn’t content to win by count out. Lawler is beside himself on commentary, calling Edge an idiot and telling him to get back in the ring and win the damn match … but Cole explains that this NEEDS a definitive winner – and a count out wouldn’t be the definitive victory Edge needs.
Edge eventually gets Batistas dead weight body back into the ring, but it takes plenty out of Edge to do so, and he looks spent by the time he’s back in the ring, making the cover … but Batista rolls onto his front before Edge can even do that!!! Edge affords himself a smirk, but he’s trying to keep his anger in check, having essentially wasted a Spear on nothing ultimately, and that’s something Lawler takes great pleasure in uttering “I told you so”. Batista uses the ropes to drag himself up in the corner, but Edge is right on him, mounting the turnbuckles, HAMMERING Batista with punches-
UNTIL BATISTA WALKS EDGE OUT OF THE CORNER … WANTING A BATISTA BOMB OUT OF NOWHERE-
BUT EDGE RAKES THE EYES OUT OF DESPERATION!!!!!
A total desperation move from Edge, but it gets the desired result, with the Batista Bomb avoided!! Cole can’t even defend it, apart from saying that Edge HAD to do it to avoid a certain defeat. Batista is momentarily unsighted, struggling around the ring, with Edge looking to take full advantage, spinning Batista around- BUT BATISTA EXPLODES WITH A SPINEBUSTER!!!!! He takes an extra second to wipe at his eyes, before dropping down to hook the leg; 1...2...NO!!!!! Spinebuster couldn’t do it…
BUT THE BATISTA BOMB MIGHT!!! Batista shrugs off his momentary blinding, getting back to his feet, looking to seize the opportunity … and signals what time it is by SHAKING THE ROPES!!! He drags Edge back up … BUT EDGE STUNS BATISTA WITH A KICK TO THE GUT … AND QUICK AS A FLASH; EDGECUTION!!!!! 1...2...BATISTA KICKS OUT!!!!! Again, Cole puts over how both men are throwing everything at one another, it’s blow for blow, with neither man able to hit their knockout shot, as Lawler adds that even those knockout blows might not be enough!!
And Edge looks frustrated too. He starts to get up, and shakes his head, muttering something over Batista as he rises to his feet … before setting up in the corner, hunching down, willing Batista back up … then demanding it … AND GOES FOR THE SPEAR – NO – BATISTA COUNTERS WITH AN {AWKWARD LOOKING} SPINEBUSTER!!!!!!!! That gives Batista a second wind, and The Animal quickly drags Edge up by the hair … ANOTHER – EMPHATIC THIS TIME – SPINEBUSTER!!!!! And Edge can’t do anything about what’s coming next … Batista drags him up again … setting himself … loading Edge up … BATISTA BOMB FINALLY CONNECTS!!!!!!!!!! 1...2...3!!!!!!!!!!
Winner: Batista @ 14:06
Cole and Lawler put over both men, trying to protect Edge in defeat, saying either guy could’ve won this, with The Animal triumphing by the slimmest of margins – but it continues his incredible recent record in 1 on 1 encounters – and it’s Batista that ends 2008 undefeated in singles matches on PPV!!!!! And Cole adds that Batista may well be looking at an even bigger 2009, pointing out that The Animal has been campaigning for a WWE Title shot for a LONG time … and after beating the man that held the WWE title for six months this year, it may well be overdue at this point – something The King agrees with.
The Animal has his arm raised, and there’s little in the way of pomp or pageantry in the celebration … Batista peers down at his beaten rival after getting his arm raised … and simply leaves the ring – job completed. As Batista leaves, clips are shown from during the match and the various turning points, including the Spear on the floor – to which Lawler again calls Edge an idiot for not just winning by count out – pointing out just how fine the margins were here tonight between two of the top stars on Smackdown.
Back in the ring, Edge looks pretty pissed as he gets up – and we’re now reminded he’s got to move on quick with the Matt Hardy match set for December 26 – angry at having lost such an important match, though again, Cole puts over how this could’ve gone either way. On the stage, Batista takes a final ‘curtain call’ standing tall, arms raised – another huge PPV win for The Animal in 2008; first The Undertaker, now Edge – with designs on the WWE Title next.
CHRISTMAS EVE ON SUPERSTARS…
… THE 2008 SLAMMY AWARDS!!!
Cutting backstage … and CHRIS JERICHO solemnly walks though the halls, obviously dressed to compete, with the WWE Championship around his waist. Even the usual motormouth ARMANDO ESTRADA is deathly silent. Both men look like they’re walking into an execution … and there’s clearly little sympathy for the champion. THEODORE LONG (manipulated by Jericho to partake in his Survivor Series team) gleefully and sarcastically wishes Jericho luck, whilst others seem to take delight in seeing the usually confident and assured Jericho looking so uneasy.
CARLITO (who pushed Jericho to the limit a few weeks ago) makes a point of shining up his newly won gold as Jericho passes by, which earns him a scowl from the champion … and then, returning from his match, BATISTA comes face to face with Jericho. He looks down on Jericho for a moment, affording himself a smirk, before telling Jericho “you’re about to get everything you deserve.” The Animal then brushes past, as Jericho continues on (slowly) in the opposite direction.
The camera though, sticks with Batista … as JOSH MATHEWS catches up with him, asking for a quick word following his victory over Edge, and pointing out that crossing of paths with the WWE Champion before asking what’s next for The Animal. Taking a second, Batista thinks, before replying with a short, succinct answer; “I’m throwing twenty nine other guys outta the Royal Rumble. And I DARE someone to keep me outta that match this year.” Batista walks on, leaving it at that, instantly marking himself as a favourite to win the Rumble next month…
Back into the arena, Cole and Lawler discuss that very subject; Batista being an early favourite for the Rumble. Cole mentions that Batista lost out on the chance to be IN the match last year – as fate would have it, at the expense of Edge – but there’s no one right now with the kind of momentum he has, and according to Lawler is a LOCK to be an automatic entrant in the Rumble next month. As the graphic shows up now for the main event, the commentators transition, pondering if it could be Batista versus Jericho or Umaga at WrestleMania … with Jericho needing a miracle tonight if he’s to survive the challenge of an unleashed Umaga…
And the video package highlights the dominance of Umaga – guided by his handler, Armando Estrada - from his debut in 2006, right until his first loss in the main event of SummerSlam in 2007. From there, the focus begins to shift, and Estrada begins to mistreat Umaga, scolding him for any missteps, demanding more from the Bulldozer … and after he’d lose at SummerSlam this year … Estrada would humiliate Umaga by slapping him repeatedly in the ring.
We get the video of Estrada a few weeks after that loss, sat in a dirty diner, washing his hands of Umaga, calling his Bulldozer a failure … before showing up at No Mercy with Umaga to assist Chris Jericho in cashing in the MITB briefcase, forming a new alliance, in which Umaga was little more than muscle for Jericho. But Umaga proved his worth at the Survivor Series, reeling off three consecutive eliminations to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat and prevent Jericho from defending the WWE Title at Armageddon against Kurt Angle…
But Finlay would have the last laugh. Jericho, thinking he’d have the night off, would be told that he WOULD defend the title … against UMAGA. For the following weeks, Jericho insisted that the Samoan Bulldozer would lie down and follow orders … but doubts grew … and two nights ago on Smackdown, Jericho’s worst fears were realised as Umaga CRUSHED his hand during a handshake, going rogue, and leaving the WWE Champion laying … before longingly holding the WWE Title…
Back into the arena…
**VIRTUAL VOODOO**
Looking almost bare by entering ALONE, the Samoan Bulldozer; UMAGA makes his way onto the stage, with his wild eyes darting all around the arena. The question is asked on commentary if Umaga, without a handler at ringside can even control himself or come up with an effective gameplan … but Cole notes that Umaga looked pretty damn impressive on his own at the Survivor Series … and two nights ago on Smackdown. And given the hot streak the Bulldozer is on, is there any way that Jericho can stop him!?
**BREAK THE WALLS DOWN**
Drained of confidence, CHRIS JERICHO is slow to step onto the stage and even stops to look behind him, seemingly needing the reassurance of Armando Estrada before he can even make his way down the ramp … but Estrada hardly looks confident himself. Umaga paces in the ring, ready to go, as Jericho gulps once he reaches the ringside area.
Unstrapping his belt, Jericho climbs into the ring, and clutches onto it tightly, taking a long look at it … for the last time(??) before reluctantly getting ready to hand it over to Chad Patton … as Estrada tries to get into the head of Umaga from ringside … getting his attention at least-
ALLOWING JERICHO TO WAFFLE UMAGA WITH THE TITLE FROM BEHIND – RIGHT TO THE BACK OF THE HEAD!!!!!
THE MATCH HASN’T EVEN STARTED!!!!!
JERICHO GOES FOR THE COVER … BUT CHAD PATTON WAVES IT OFF – HE WON’T START THE MATCH LIKE THIS!!!!!
Jericho looks up at the official … but before he can even start complaining; UMAGA GRIPS HIM BY THE NECK FROM THE CANVAS!!!!!
Umaga is recovering ALREADY from the title belt shot, and has Jericho gripped tightly, with the champion flailing his arms, unable to break the grip, choking as Umaga stands up – AND JERICHO GOES LOW WITH A KICK TO THE BALLS!!!!!
That’ll stop any man … and Jericho wants a CODEBREAKER-
BLOCKED BY UMAGA … AND JERICHO IS CAUGHT IN NO MANS LAND!!! Umaga shows his own considerable strength, holding Jericho up in the air with Jericho caught in the Codebreaker position … BEFORE GETTING DUMPED TO THE FLOOR LIKE A SACK OF SHIT!!!!!
Despite the calls from Patton to stay in the ring, Umaga isn’t listening to anyone right now – and he follows immediately to the floor – as Cole reminds us that this HASN’T started yet, he drags Jericho up-
AS ESTRADA CRACKS UMAGA FROM BEHIND WITH A STEEL CHAIR…
AND UMAGA COMPLETELY NO SELLS IT!!!!!
Umaga tosses Jericho aside, and turns his attention to Estrada – who is still wielding the chair … and despite that weapon in his possession, Armando still looks scared to death – and drops the chair, RUNNING FOR COVER FROM UMAGA!!! Umaga gives chase, hunting down his former handler … and eventually GETS HIM!!!!!
Halfway up the ramp, Umaga has Estrada by the belt, with Estrada frantically trying to undo his belt buckle to escape … BUT JERICHO COMES FROM BEHIND WITH A VICIOUS CHAIR SHOT TO THE BACK!!!!!
And he isn’t stopping with one – there’s a second, a third, a fourth, fifth and SIXTH chair shot to the back of the Bulldozer. Each chair shot sees Umaga move closer back to the ring, but he’s STILL on his feet, STILL walking … though Jericho is lining up a shot to the skull to put Umaga down-
UMAGA BLOCKS IT!!!!!
Umaga GRABS the chair, stopping it’s momentum, and despite eating SIX chair shots already, he’s still able to OVERPOWER Jericho and RIPS the chair away from the WWE Champion, before swinging it himself-
JERICHO DUCKS-
AND UMAGA BLASTS CHAD PATTON WITH IT INSTEAD ACCIDENTALLY!!!!!!!
The match hasn’t started – and it may never start now the referee is out!!!!! Umaga stands over the official momentarily, but doesn’t check on him … he just looks at him … before turning around – AS JERICHO CATCHES UMAGA, DROPKICKING THE CHAIR INTO THE BULLDOZERS FACE!!!!!!
That shot finally staggers the Samoan Savage, and Jericho bundles Umaga into the ring, despite there being no official. He cracks the chair off the back of Umaga again, then targets the legs, trying to weaken anything he can before putting the chair down … WANTING A RUNNING BULLDOG ONTO IT-
BUT UMAGA COUNTERS … AND SLAMS JERICHO ONTO THE CHAIR INSTEAD!!!!!
Jericho’s back contorts in pain, crawling to the corner with Umaga following in, and delivering ONE chop, that sees the champion slump down in the corner, with Umaga stomping the hell out of Jericho there and backing out … immediately rushing in after – RUNNING BUTT SPLASH IN THE CORNER!!!!! Umaga steps out, roaring as he walks around the ring … THEN STEAMS IN FOR A SECOND RUNNING BUTT SPLASH!!!!!!!
Armando Estrada is rushing around ringside in a panic, shouting at Cole and Lawler, shouting for POLICE, demanding some kind of assistance … as Umaga drags Jericho up, setting him on the top turnbuckle, grabbing the champion by the throat … and TOSSES him across the ring!!! Jericho is out on his feet here!!!
Umaga drags the champion by the leg to the middle of the ring, and makes his way to the top rope, as Estrada can barely watch from the outside … as Umaga flies – BIG SPLASH OFF THE TOP TO JERICHO!!!!!!!
Once more, Michael Cole has to remind the audience that the bell NEVER rang – this match has NOT started yet!!! … but it could be over before it begins, as Umaga drags Jericho to his feet … HE WANTS THE SAMOAN SPIKE-
“OOMAGA!! WAIT!! WAIT!!”
The sound of Estrada on the mic brings pause to Umaga, and boos from the fans. Estrada frantically climbs the steps and onto the apron, hand up.
“STOP DE MADNESS, OKAY!! ENOUGH!! JU, LISTEN TO ME!!”
Estrada tries as best he can to sound assertive, trying to win over Umaga and get the Bulldozer to listen to him again … and it seems to be working.
“AND REMEMBER … JU … WORK … FOR HIM!!!”
Armando points to Jericho, with Umaga slowly turning his head, and the pathetic sight of the champion who is only standing because Umaga is holding him up.
“Now … put … Mister Jericho … down.”
Taking a moment to consider, Umaga appears to be listening … and lets go!!! Jericho slumps to the mat, and boos fill the arena, as Estrada smiles broadly, nodding, as he waves Umaga over.
“Jes. That’s better, haha.”
The Bulldozer slowly walks toward his handler, who continues to wave him over…
“Now … I need ju to-”
UMAGA GRIPS ESTRADA – AND HURLS HIM OVER THE TOP ROPE INTO THE RING!!!!!
Estrada begs off, pleading for his life as he stands back up, shaking with fear- AND GETS DROPPED WITH A CLOTHESLINE!!!!!
Umaga drags Estrada to the corner … HE’S GOING TO GIVE HIS HANDLER A BANZAI DROP-
BUT JERICHO PULLS ESTRADA OUT OF DANGER-
UMAGAS ASS LANDS ON THE CANVAS ONLY!!!!
The Samoan Bulldozer is standing right back up though … BUT JERICHO CRACKS HIM WITH A STEP UP ENZIGURI-
AND THAT ONLY STAGGERS UMAGA!!!!!
Lawler wonders what the hell has gotten into Umaga, calling him unstoppable right now … but a SECOND step up Enziguri from Jericho FINALLY takes Umaga off his feet!!!
BUT HE’S IMMEDIATELY STIRRING!!!!!
Umaga is getting right back up … forcing Jericho to hit a running bulldog – and this time it DOES connect … ON THE CHAIR!!!!!
One more time, Michael Cole issues the reminder that THIS MATCH HAS NOT STARTED YET, but Jericho is doing anything he can to try and keep Umaga down … AND THE LIONSAULT CONNECTS!!!!! AND JERICHO HITS A SECOND LIONSAULT TOO!!!!!
Estrada is already back on the floor – despite looking like a mess – trying to revive the referee, trying to swipe a fans soda to no avail, as Jericho rolls out too, giving the official a shake … but he’d needn’t bother … BECAUSE UMAGA IS COMING AROUND AGAIN!!!!!
Jericho spots it, and shakes his head, having to get back in the ring again … and sizes up Umaga, waiting for him to stand … AND WANTS THE CODEBREAKER – NO!!! UMAGA SLAPS THE CHAMPION DOWN!!!!! Jericho bounces back up … BUT WALKS RIGHT INTO THE CHALLENGER-
SAMOAN SPIKE!!!!!!!!!!
Umaga has the cover …
BUT THERE’S NO REFEREE … AND THE MATCH HASN’T EVEN STARTED!!!!!
Looking around, Umaga spots the knocked out official, and has the wherewithal to leave the ring (scaring off Armando) before trying to revive the referee in his own unique style … by dragging Chad Patton up, and throwing him into the ring!!!
Umaga climbs back in … and Jericho is trying to bail – he’s trying to crawl out of the ring to escape Umaga – but the Bulldozer grabs Jericho by the leg to stop him!!! Estrada grabs the arms of Jericho, trying to pull him out of the ring … but instead, Umaga IS DRAGGING HIM INTO THE RING WITH JERICHO!!!!!!
And Estrada again scurries once he’s been dragged in – he’s not wanting to suffer at the hands of this Umaga on the warpath – and leaves Jericho all alone, with Umaga lifting him up … SAMOAN DROP!!!!! Umaga drags Jericho to the corner … he steps up, wanting the BANZAI DROP-
WHEN ESTRADA RUSHES ONTO THE APRON … AND SPRAYS SOMETHING INTO UMAGAS EYES!!!!!
Umaga swats his hands around, beating at his eyes, clearly blinded, clearly bothered, and drops from the middle rope, swatting his hands around, clawing at his own eyes … as Jericho has got up … Umaga can’t see what’s coming-
CODEBREAKER!!!!!!!
AND UMAGA IS DOWN!!!!!
Jericho – spent from the beating he’s taken – is also down, but neither Cole or Lawler can believe that Umaga has been flattened by that Codebreaker given how impervious he’s been tonight … as Estrada reaches into the ring, giving the referee a slap … finally bringing Chad Patton around, pointing to the ring … and Patton makes a feeble motion to start the match!!!!! IT’S FINALLY STARTING!!!!!
WWE Championship Match:
Chris Jericho w/Armando Estrada vs. Umaga
Jericho crawls onto Umaga for the cover … and the worlds slowest count from a barely conscious official …
… 1
…
…
… 2
…
…
…
… KICK OUT FROM UMAGA!!!!!!!!!
Jericho is devastated!!!! He buries his head in his hands, then gets back up, watching as Umaga struggles up too … AND DELIVERS A SECOND CODEBREAKER!!!!!!!!!! He hooks the leg…
… 1
…
… 2
…
… 3!!!!!!!!!!
Winner: And STILL WWE Champion – Chris Jericho @ 01:07
Somehow, someway … Chris Jericho has BEATEN Umaga to retain the WWE Championship!!!!! And officially … he’s done it in damn near record time!!! Michael Cole airs his fury at the way this went down, calling the whole thing a sham, calling Jericho a con-man … only for Lawler to retort with calling Jericho a SMART man … and he came up with a game plan to get the job done. That’s something Cole doesn’t agree with, believing Jericho simply pushed his luck tonight – and hit the jackpot.
But Cole is forced to eat his words … as the victorious WWE Champion hands over the title belt to Estrada, before he proudly reaches into his knee pads … and produces METAL PLATES – and now, we know why the Codebreaker was THAT effective tonight, and that’s why he continuously went for it at every available opportunity he got!!!
Jericho though is making a HUGE mistake in his hubris … he’s celebrating in the ring … AND UMAGA IS RECOVERING!!!!! UMAGA IS GETTING BACK UP!!!!! Jericho and Estrada are unaware, raising each others hands in victory, whilst Umaga gets to his feet behind them … and they turn around – to initially leave the ring-
BUT GET A DOUBLE CLOTHESLINE INSTEAD!!!!!!!
Estrada and Jericho are both down … but Umaga puts his focus on Jericho for now, picking him up, and THROWS him out of the ring!!! Umaga follows out, and stops Jericho from climbing over the barrier, pulling him back and THROWS HIM OVER THE SPANISH ANNOUNCE TABLE!!!!!
Umaga proceeds to strip down BOTH announce tables, nailing Jericho in the skull with a monitor as he does so, which leaves Jericho prone and out cold on the announce table … with Umaga standing on the Spanish table … THEN TAKES OFF … AND LEAPS IN THE AIR – SPLASHING JERICHO THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE!!!!!
It’s carnage – Umaga has broken the champion through the table!!!!! And he’s ALREADY getting back up!!!!! Umaga stares down at the battered body of Jericho … then turns his focus to ARMANDO ESTRADA again!!! He sees Estrada hobbling up the ramp, and isn’t prepared to let him get away!!!
Umaga kicks away the debris he’s left behind, and starts to make a beeline for the escaping Estrada, stalking him up the ramp … as Armando tries to jog – but limps in doing so – out of sight … with the Samoan Bulldozer in hot pursuit of his former handler…
Meanwhile, at ringside, in amongst the rubble of what used to be the Spanish Announce table … Chris Jericho can barely move … but as Chad Patton sets the WWE Championship down beside him, the champion is able to extend a hand, to touch his gold … and shows the slightest hint of a smile …
FADE TO BLACK.