I would like to first point out that i have never read a full show of yours before, so bare with me I may have made a mistake here or there with who is face/heel or who is feuding with who. But overall this looks like great stuff.
I am reading the Vince opening segment in the empty office, and then I was like 'ARN ANDERSON?!' wtf. I wasn't expecting him to be the GM of Smackdown, geez you have gone in a totally different direction the WWE was at the time of your BTB. The promo itself was in character and all, but I am not quite sure what to think about it, he didn't announce anything really just emphasized that he is the chairman of the board and reminding people that if you cross the boss' you will regret it. I'll see how this plays out, maybe he will be on later in the show...
Looks like Orton is the main heel in your BTB, good choice, I assume by the sound of his promo he just came off a big win against Van Dam which is good as Van Dam doesn't really suit me the promo face type to be the face of Smackdown! Orton should face Lesnar that would be epicness something I would like to see. Other then that Flair being a draft pick?! if you have him and Double A' bring in the FOUR HORSEMAN I will be your number 1# reader. Anderson was exceptional on the microphone reminding Orton about the days he was wrestling day in and day out, and announcing a number one contenders match. Orton on the other hand should have interupted him a bit more and said things like 'you don't have the authority / power to do those sorts of things ' you know just throwing his weight around as a heel and as a champion.
Personally I don't like when people put commercial breaks into their matchups to interupt the flow of the contest but some people do it and some people don't, whatever they are used to doing it's not that big of a deal. Just I find it gets on my nerves that when I get into the flow of a match suddenly it's interupted by a commercial break and then the momentum has changed and it is totally different when you get back and you don't know what had happened. Other then that the match itself did flow nicely, started off with a base ball slide into the barrier which is something different then the usual grappling in the ring and feeding off each other in the corner. Good job with this one, great way to begin the show.
MVP going off the deep end at the referee ? I am not sure if him and Carlito have history in this thread or have feuded before but I see one in the works. Maybe at Backlash these two will go at it once more in some sort of specialty match like a street fight or something. Can't wait for another encounter in the future. Oh and good you had Michael Cole and Tazz in character throughout this with Cole screaming "What is he doing? he can't do that!" while Tazz kept his cool and sided with the heels.
Jericho shold be a strong tweener in all of this, beating up the heels and going for the faces when needed, when they stand in his way on his quest for the gold' and tonight it should be a finish with one of them costing the other the victory to be honest and next week I see Orton taking out both men and it is a three way at Backlash but that is just me and what i would do in your position. Nontheless the promo was really good, it showed the intense side of Jericho while showing that Edge should not be taken lightly and it shouldn't be all about Jericho either, he too wants his hands on Orton and his crownies.
Protogue Burke? wow, that is something I don't read every day. was not expecting that one in this BTB, I like it. Most protogue / teams just end after three or four months with the protogue (burke) thinking he has learned enough from Booker T and then turns on him but he is wrong and then it turns into a PPV match with Booker T the teacher adn the cocky up and comer. Though that doesn't seem to be for a long time as both men along with Finlay seemed to work together as a team, you began this matchup praising Hass and his supposed wrestling abilities... looks like you are a big fan of him. Other then that it could have gone a bit longer.
Not much to comment on besides Squash Match, and please have Kash win the gold from Kendrick ... never liked the guy
(Woot second hour) - it's like 11pm here kinda tired.... >< I'll finish this and go to sleep...
the new Orton group looks to be pretty stacked, I was actually thinking you were talking about Priceless to be honest seeing as I have never been in here before and I don't know what changes and swerves you have made. I am just thankful you have Nick Dismore in well this character instead of the retarted Eugene persona.
Edge and Jericho win? would have been a better move to have the new guys use their numbers advantage to win or have then at least cheat to win, have Orton tell them before the match that they shouldn't get to their match next week and to take them out 'chairs and etc.' to end the match. Maybe that will end the match next week between the two which will result in what I said earler in a three way at Backlash. But other then that and the fact that Edge and Jericho won, I just hope you don't give them the tag team gold like the WWE did and have it as a one time thing. And I am happy that you at least gave the crownies' a good rub into this match making them look at least half decent not a total handicap squash match *cough/dxvsspiritsquad2006/cough* lol.
YAY! JBL, always loved the guy. He carried Smackdown! for almost two years on his back and the man can not only wrestle but he is one of the best mic workers of all time, proably the best current worker. Not sure what you mean by 'returning' if he was injured or something or taking time off if he has some beef with the guy that injured him ? but it's great to see him coming back next week. I should read that one and find out what went down.
Brent as the US Champ?! I am really liking this, huge fan of the kid. And he has a great heel attitude, great promo but the fact that you put the JBL return promo and the FORMER US Champ comment by the commentators before he came out was brilliant, got me thinking that JBL vs. Brent Albright is gonig to go down and when it does ill be reading. Also Batista fought him in the US division? wasn't expecting that, Lashly I can understand but Batista is more of a main eventer to me... oh well probably was a good match too I should browse around here throughout the pages to get a glimpse of what went down.
Paul London's music plays, the first thing that came to my mind was SQUASH once more. Which I would have said something because two in one night is not a good idea, but it wasn't. Paul London showed that he can go toe to toe with the big US Champ and showed that he too deserves a match with the champ for the gold somewhere down the line. most big man, little man matches like these are not that easy to make with one not being able to lift the other up for many moves or do much to the other but you made this match come off really well you would almost mistake Paul for an upper mid carder not a cruiserweight.
I forsee next week Brent complains about that match and the upset win and then begins to go on a rant how it was a one time thing and won't happen again, Paul got lucky and bam! JBL's music hits and these two have one hell of a promo.
I am not that familiar with CHris Harris and James Storm, I have seen them in maybe three matches before over youtube but I am not that big of a TNA fan and wasn't even watching it back in 04 or 05 whichever was their time to hold the gold in that company so I wouldn't know to tell you if it was in character or not but this tables match looks to be something great and the fact that you let it in your main event spot shows that you really do take pride in your tag team division, that i tip my hat off to you because not many people do that, I am a huge fan of tag team wrestling and it is underused in the WWE as to what it used to be.
This match did not dissapoint, it had the PPV match feel to it, and I hope that they do have another encounter at the PPV - but this time I don't know what to suggest seeing as Tables suit Harris and Storm quite well, maybe this time you will have it as a ladder match and have it in the Hardy's playing feild so to speak.
Other then that it was a great show, 8.5/10 - sorry I couldn't give you more insight into the main event im off to bed ... see ya come Raw.
I promised I'd check out Smackdown and here I am. I've skimmed the preview and it looks like it'll be a good show.
Awesome way to open the show, it seems like this Vince angle is going to be pretty big. Nice way to keep it fresh on everyone's minds after Raw and add some more importance to it.
You do a really good job of banter between commentators. I wonder what will become of Flair and Lesnar.
Orton's very in character and so far I'm liking this promo. He's really putting himself over well with some good points about all the men who seem to missing now he's on Smackdown. AA FTW, business is about to pick up. I absolutely LOVE the way you're using Arn as the old school no nonsense enforcer and it works a treat in the GM role. Huge announcements, setting up some big Smackdowns in the coming weeks. Will be interesting to see hwo the New Wave go without Orton, and how Edge/Y2J co-exist.
I think the streak should end here. You can only take an undefeated streak so far before the superstar stalls and its about time MVP moved past it, he's got bigger fish to fry. Nice action at the start with Carlito utilising some fancy moves and MVP with an awesome counter. A real clash of styles it seems and it just makes this match even more interesting. Solid match in the end with some nice back and forth action which leaves both men looking good despite the result. Post-match is interesting, perhaps we'll be seeing a more ruthless MVP from now on.
Jericho was in character for the majority of this interview in an all-around epic promo. Y2J is going to more than likely be next weeks winner cos heel vs heel sucks, but I wonder how it'll all go down tonight. Edge's involvement at the end was a nice way to add tension.
Typical match, nothing special. It accomplished what it needed to though, establishing Booker/Burke as a top team on Smackdown and getting Finlay & Haas some ringtime. I expect, while wishful thinking on second though, an AMW vs. Booker T & ELijah Burke feud.
MVP going nuts backstage, good stuff to further his character. Looks like you're investing a lot of time developing him into a big star.
Kash/Kendrick looks to continue. Brian was rather bland but that's too be expected. Squash, but that was obvious from the moment I saw the name Funaki.
More cross-promotion, makes me want to read Raw. You've got me hooked with that shit, lol. The stip is necessary, but takes the uneasy element out of the match to an extent. Some very good teamwork from the New Wave after the early face attack. I really like how you're using the NW as a cohesive unit. Good finish and once again you've made all involved look very strong when it's all said and done. Post-match was rather bland in my books, since AA didn't say anything about after the match.
Ahh, good ol' JBL. Good to hear he'll be on your show.
Another good heel promo, Albright putting himself over in much the same way Orton did earlier. London was boring tbh, just a run of the mill face promo.
Another clash of styles, similiar to MVP vs. Carlito. Similiar story as well, with the wrestling acumen of Albright countering the high-flying London. Surprising finish, since London hadn't got much offense in the whole match. London is a good choice for a number one contender though.
I didn't really buy the Storm/Harris promo. It hyped up the match well but it seemed like it could've been any team saying those lines.
Great main event which equals a great way to finish the show. A fast-paced, high octane match with a whole lot of close calls and of course a few trademark Hardy big spots. It's a shame the champions had to lose but they put up a good fight and came out still looking strong.
Overall, this was a solid show. The Main Event was easily MOTN and the best promo was a tie between Randy Orton and Chris Jericho. MVP/Carlito and Albright/London were almost carbon copies of one another, next time it might be better off to try a different story. There was nothing bad on this show, but I think Raw was just a bit in front.
Segment 1: Vinnie Macs This seems to fit well here. It's just a reminder/affirmation of what Vince announced at the close of RAW. ***/*****
Segment 2: The New Wave Hits Smackdown I enjoyed this. While I didn't expect Orton to go to Smackdown because of the misdirection you created (sneaky boy), I'm happy about it. I wish Orton was in action his first night on Smackdown, but the way Arn screws all of the New Wave by doing what he did was a nice substitute. On a side note, why does everyone refer to wrestlers in their BTBs by their real names? IE Ken Doane, Nick Dinsmore, Matt Sydal, etc. ***
Segment 3: THE STREAK ENDS!!!!! This was exceptional. Will it be match of the night? I don't know if the Hardy's can pull it off. Anyway, I really liked how you ended things, and now perhaps we can see this rivalry go even further. MVP's response at the end was appropriate, and I'm glad he didn't take things lightly. I got so into this...I actually went to the bathroom when the match got to the commercial break. Bravo. *****
Segment 4: Chris Calm This was a beauty of a promo. It seems that Jericho is turning face in a slow, methodical way, which is how it SHOULD be done. I also like how Chris got extra serious in this promo. The Edge/Jericho interaction was done well to, and the comments that Edge made really made me rethink the comments I've made earlier about how Edge should have won the title at Mania. The contrast between the calm Chris Jericho and the boiling Edge...wow.****
Segment 5: Victory The three debuting Smackdown stars get the nod, as well they should. However, Burke didn't really got any chance to show any offense which is disappointing. Other wise, good outing. ***
Segment 6: Kid is Kash Kash does a quick squash. The main agenda here is to continue the feud with the new champ. ***
Segment 7: A Team Torn I was thinking about using Burn In My Light as the theme for Legacy in my thread, but you beat me to it, lol. I think it's a fine theme for New Wave. This was a good match, but the highlight for me was the tension between the two title contenders. The end came across like I would have booked it. Very smart. Both times I thought these two were going for each other. ****
Segment 8: United States Upset The promo that kicked things off? Promo of the night. I loved seeing a confident Brent as opposed to the nervous guy during the Batista feud. The way he compared his reign to all others was great (as well as marriage and jobs), but London quickly changed all that. London gets the win which starts the feud. You're moving Paul up the card well, making him into the house cat with a lion's heart. ****
Segment 9: Holy Shit! I was wrong. This HEAVILY trumped the Carlito/MVP match. That was incredible! Absolutely incredible! A feel good ending that was beautifuly done...and violently executed. *****
Overall Best show I've reviewed thus far. ****
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The wrestling world has been abuzz for the past seven days after the earth shattering announcement made by Mister McMahon last Monday Night, where the boss truly retook that mantle, making his intention clear to buy out every shareholder and investor, taking the WWE off the stock market in the process, putting an end to the Board of Directors, giving him 100% control. And this weeks Monday Night Raw, from the mecca of sports entertainment, Madison Square Garden could be a sign of the tyranny that is set to follow...
The main event says it all. Mister McMahon, and his son Shane will challenge CM Punk and Greg Helms for the World Tag Team Championships. The boss has decided to wield his power instantly, with the premise of making history, with himself and Shane becoming the only father/son combination to ever win the tag team championships in the WWE. Just two weeks ago, Straight Edge earned their reward for a year of hard work and dedication by becoming World Tag Team Champions at WrestleMania ... this week on Raw, all signs point to them losing the titles on the whim of an ego-maniacal boss. After all, is there any right minded official ready to throw away his job should the boss decide the bend the rules?? It remains to be seen.
Two men set for a backlash against them, are past and present World Champions, John Cena and Christian. Whilst no details have been brought forward as yet, both men are expected to be in action, and after months of proving to be a thorn in the side of the McMahon Family Empire, Captain Charisma and the Doctor of Thuganomics are in the firing line for a dose of front line punishment. What devilish ideas must Mister McMahon have for his toe fiercest foes left on the Raw roster?? Will he toy with Christian ahead of his World title defence at Backlash against his son-in-law Triple H?? And, could Cena follow the likes of Eric Bischoff onto the unemployment line ... or Brock Lesnar into an indefinite suspension??
Shelton Benjamin is in line to make his first appearance on Raw since being part of the epic Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania. The Black Diamond has been given a two week break following the Showcase of the Immortals, but on his return he wont be easing himself back into action. With help from his advisor, Theodore Long, Benjamin has a non title match with the Intercontinental Champion, Rey Mysterio. Benjamin will surely be looking to get back into the hunt for the title he lost back in January to Mysterio, whilst Mysterio will want to rebound from a shattering defeat to Mister Kennedy last week on Raw. With Theodore Long promising to introduce a new look Brotherhood, could strength in numbers be the deciding factor in this contest??
And, off the back of last weeks draft lottery, two of the new faces on Raw, Matt Hardy, and -for the first time since the inception of the brand extension- Kurt Angle, will meet one on one this Monday. It's a huge opportunity for Matt Hardy, but it's also a big chance for Kurt Angle to stake his claim for a future title shot. With Eric Bischoff seemingly set to name him Number One Contender last week, how will Angle react to being passed over for Triple H by Mister McMahon?? Could he take out his frustration on Matt Hardy?? Or will 'The Talent' grab the opportunity with both hands and cause a major stir on Raw on his first night??
Mister Kennedy is also set for action, as he looks to make a step up, setting his sights on the coveted World Championship, but he faces a hungry Cody Rhodes, fresh off a move from Smackdown, as part of last weeks draft lottery. Can Kennedy make the statement he has promised to make??
Confirmed Matches; Straight Edge vs Mister McMahon & Shane McMahon | World Tag Team Championships Match Rey Mysterio vs Shelton Benjamin | Non Title Match Kurt Angle vs Matt Hardy Mister Kennedy vs Cody Rhodes
***
I wont be on tomorrow, so Raw will be posted on Monday.
Raw loooks good I might review it if I get the time, Shane and Vince winning the tag titles would really advance the storyline of Vince taking control but I don't want to see, they should win no titles but I pretty you'r good enough to know this considering you're defanately one of the best around.
Oh and 'The Black Diamond' is BAMF nickname for Shelton
Not Removing until (Started 5/26/10)
[] Edge becomes a Ten Time World Champion
[] Christian is in a World Title Match
[] The Miz main events Raw, Smackdown or a Pay-Per-View and wins
[/] Abyss Cleanly loses a match (Jeff Hardy, Impact 7/1/10)
[/] Daniel Bryan (or Brian Danielson) kicks someone's head in or makes them tap out (John Cena, Raw 6/7/10)
[] Zack Ryder wins a match on Raw
[] The Dudebusters cleanly win a tag match on Smackdown
Monday Night Raw | April 2 2007 | New York City, NY
Instead of the opening video … it’s straight backstage, where the McMahon Family; Vince, Shane and Stephanie, are stood proud, whilst the fans boo in the background.
Vince is dressed appropriately, shirt, tie and blazer -and no longer sporting the ridiculous wig- not yet dressed for his match later, but Shane is already decked out in his baseball like ring attire. Vince waits for a moment, allowing the heat to dampen.
Mr. McMahon: Good evening ladies and gentlemen … and welcome to McMahon Appreciation Night.
Vince opens softly, whilst Shane and Stephanie stand either side of him, looking to the camera.
Mr. McMahon: Tonight marks the beginning of a new era … not only on Monday Night Raw, but in the WWE. Tonight, WWE Raw is back in my hands … and my hands only.
Heat.
Mr. McMahon: And tonight, you will witness history in the making, when my son Shane and I become the first ever father, son combination in WWE history to be the World Tag Team Champions.
More heat for the boss.
Mr. McMahon: But not only will you see history made tonight … you will also see YOUR favourites … Christian and John Cena in action.
Massive pop from the fans, as Vince looks unimpressed momentarily, until he develops a smirk.
Mr. McMahon: Indeed, you will see the World Heavyweight Champion in action, just three weeks away from facing my son in law, Triple H, at Backlash-
The fans interrupt with a chorus of boos for The Game.
Mr. McMahon: Christian will compete in that very ring tonight when he faces … A GAUNTLET!!!
Deafening heat for McMahon, booking Christian in a heavily stacked match.
Mr. McMahon: And John Cena … well, I couldn’t decide which member of MNM he should face tonight … so instead, he’ll face BOTH Johnny Nitro, and Joey Mercury in a handicap match.
Even more heat from The Garden, with the fans already pissed at the odds against matches.
Mr. McMahon: In fact … that match?? It’s not happening later tonight … it’s happening … right … now.
The McMahons smile, with Stephanie laughing, and Shane nodding.
Mr. McMahon: WELCOME … TO MISTER MCMAHONS VISION OF MONDAY NIGHT RAW … WELCOME TO MISTER MCMAHONS W … W … EEEEEEEE!!!
McMahon nearly blows up with his over the top delivery, as we fade to black…
…And straight into the arena…
**PAPARAZZI**
Indeed, the show is kicking off with the handicap match, and we see MNM, accompanied by Melina strutting onto the stage, with the red carpet rolling out for their arrival.
The set is changed for tonight’s ‘appreciation’ with a massive poster at the side of the stage of a smiling Mr. McMahon taking up a huge amount of space.
Jim Ross: The backlash is well and truly underway, as Madison Square Garden plays host to a McMahon Family Appreciation Night on Raw. The one hundred per cent ownership of Mister McMahon is already in force, with his two biggest thorns in recent times facing daunting tasks this evening. Tonight, the World Heavyweight Champion, Christian must run the gauntlet whilst John Cena will be forced to face the might of the former World Tag Team Champions in just a moment, as he takes on those two men, collectively known as MNM.
The Coach: It’s already my all time favourite Raw!!! The Boss is back, and he’s callin all the shots baby boy!!! Christian and Cena are gonna get theirs, no doubt about it, but how about our main event!!!
Jim Ross: Don’t get me started on that Coach. How ridiculous would it be if our owner, the man that runs the show was to become a tag team champion. He calls the shots, he makes the rules, how can he lose??
The Coach: I know!!! How great is that!!! There’s no referee on Raw that will ever disqualify Mr. McMahon, there’s no referee that will count him out, and there is no referee that will count his shoulders to the mat!!! Mr McMahon, and his son Shane are set to rewrite the history books tonight!!!
Jim Ross: And you say it like it’s a good thing!!!
The Coach: IT’S MCMAHON APPRECIATION NIGHT!!! It’s all good baby!!!
Jim Ross: I’ll reserve my judgment, thanks.
The Coach: Hey, you’d better start getting more excited, and you’d better start showing some appreciation, otherwise you’ll wind up like old man Bischoff.
Jim Ross: I’ve got a little something called dignity, Coach.
MNM wait in the ring, as the worlds most famous arena goes quiet momentarily.
…
**MY TIME IS NOW**
It’s a reaction closer to cheers than boos, but the boos filter through from the deeper voiced portion of the audience, as John Cena, looking steely eyed, fearless as ever, steps onto the stage, staring down the aisle at his two opponents tonight, then salutes the fans, before storming down the aisle, throwing his cap and shirt into the fans as he proceeds … then runs to the ring, sliding in, AND STRIKING INSTANTLY AT NITRO … THEN MERCURY!!!
Match 1 | TWO ON ONE; HANDICAP MATCH: MNM w/ Melina vs. John Cena
Cena starts as he needs to - like a house on fire, hitting anything that moves, knocking the former tag team champions down with a succession of right hands, back and forth, taking out both men, before sending Mercury out of the ring, over the top rope. He then meets Nitro with a kick to the gut, hit’s the ropes, and busts out the throwback in double quick time!!! He hooks the leg, 1...2...Kick Out!!! With no time to spare, Cena drags Nitro back up, looking to send him off the ropes, but Nitro reverses, and Cena hit’s the ropes instead, but as he does, MELINA GRABS HIS LEG!!! The distraction causes Cena to turn his attention to the former womens champion … and allows Nitro to attack from behind, driving his knee into the back of Cena!!! Cena bundles out of the ring, and onto the floor below, with Nitro slingshotting himself over, onto Cena, crushing him into the barricade!!!
Now, the handicap rules kick in, with Cena getting no time to recuperate, even whilst Nitro is struggling - as Mercury is on him straight away!! Mercury lays in a succession of blows to the face with his forearm, as Melina screams in joy like a banshee, as Cena is thrown back inside the ring. Mercury slingshots himself back over, dropping his leg across the throat of Cena, making a quick cover, 1...2...Kick Out. Keeping on top of the former world champion, Mercury unleashes a barrage of rights and lefts on his grounded opponent, before dragging him up to his feet, and sends him into the corner, chasing in after … BUT CENA DODGES OUT … AND RUNS OFF THE ROPES WITH A STUNNING SHOULDER BLOCK!!! Cena quickly hurls Mercury up, looking for the FU … but Mercury wriggles, and gives Nitro time to run inside, and chop blocks Cena from behind!!!
From this point, MNM dominate, initially putting the boots to Cena, before working to the best of their ability - working as a unit. Cena fights through the numbers, refusing to give in, but each time he begins a fight back, he is almost instantly cut off by the spare member of MNM. The double team manoeuvres force Cena to be constantly fighting off his back, constantly kicking out of pinning predicaments, and putting enormous strain under him, draining his energy as the match continues. Nitro comes close to gaining a three with a standing moonsault, whilst Mercury scores a long two himself with a swinging neck breaker, but Cena just wont stay down, despite the constant barrage of offence.
Still though, he refuses to give in, but the end must be near, as Nitro applies a single leg crab, forcing Cena to dig even deeper, and all the while, Mercury goads Cena, laying behind him, talking trash, whilst the former champ grimaces in agony. Cena pushes through though as always, grabbing the face of Mercury, pushing his fingers into the eye sockets of the trash talking former tag champion, with Mercury quickly pushing away, holding his face … whilst Cena … GRABS THE ROPE!!! Nitro holds on, but breaks at the count of four. Mercury takes a walk around the ring, with Melina tending to him, whilst inside, Nitro puts the boots to Cena, dragging him up, and sends him off the ropes, then looks for a spin kick on the return … but Cena ducks under, and as Nitro hit’s the ground … CENA DROPS DOWN … AND APPLIES THE STFU!!!
Suddenly, the tables have turned … but Melina quickly spots it, and sends Mercury back inside, and just before Nitro can tap, Mercury breaks the submission!!! Cena is forced off, with Mercury hammering away, but Cena fights to his feet, and wins the slug fest, beating Mercury to a knee … but from behind IT’S NITRO AGAIN!!! Once more, Cena is unable to catch a break, with the handicap rules working against him constantly. MNM win back control once again, and now take Cena to the corner, placing him onto the top turnbuckle, and climb themselves, setting up for a superplex … BUT CENA FIGHTS BACK!!! The former champ beats away at both men, eventually knocking Nitro off, with Nitro hitting the top rope and bundling to the outside, then he pushes Mercury off, before setting himself … AND SCORES WITH A TOP ROPE LEG DROP!!! The Garden comes alive, as Cena has them believing he’s about to overcome the odds, crawling onto Mercury, making the cover … 1...2...MELINA PUTS MERCURYS FOOT ON THE ROPE!!!
Melina saves her boys from defeat, as Cena closes his eyes in despair, but gets little time to think about it as he gets to his feet … BECAUSE NITRO IS BACK IN … and he charges toward Cena … BUT CENA THROWS HIM UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS … FU COMING … NITRO WRIGGLES … BUT CANT SHAKE IT OFF … HERE IT COMES … NO … MERCURY MUSTERS A CHOP BLOCK at the very last second!!! Cena crumbles to the mat, as Mercury in a last act of desperation saves his partner, despite still being worse for wear himself. With Cena on the mat, Nitro delivers a spinning overhead leg drop, but to the surprise of many doesn’t go for a cover. Instead, he motions to his partner, making a camera gesture, which Mercury mimics, as they drag Cena up, onto the shoulders … SNAP SHOT CONNECTS!!! There is a sudden hush inside the Worlds Most Famous Arena, as Nitro and Mercury hook a leg each … 1...2...3!!! Winners: MNM @ 07:53
Despite the number advantage, it is still a massive shock to open up Monday Night Raw, with MNM defeating the former three time World Champion, John Cena. As soon as the count is made, Melina is in the ring, jumping on both men celebrating a massive win, that will surely curry favour with the boss.
Jim Ross: This is absolutely absurd, but I’m sure you wont agree Coach. How the hell was John Cena supposed to take on two men here tonight?? It’s just ridiculous.
The Coach: Or is it genius, J.R?? John Cena had a chance tonight to prove to his fans, all those kids out there, that he is a modern day super hero. Mister McMahon gave Cena that platform tonight, and he blew it, like I knew he would!!
Jim Ross: I’m going to ignore that ‘rationale’ Coach. But I’m looking forward to hearing why you think Christian is going to run a gauntlet later tonight, and I’m dying to find out why Mister McMahon is going to challenge for a championship in our main event.
The Coach: All in due course big guy … all in due course.
Jim Ross: Ladies and Gentlemen, we are asked to remind you that tonight, Mister McMahon is back in charge, calling the shots. It’s McMahon Appreciation Night, and by Gawd, we’d better appreciate him, or we’ll end up like John Cena. Please, join us, when we come back.
Commercial Break
~ McMahon Family Cherished Memory; November 2001; William Regal becomes the first ever member of the Vince McMahon ‘Kiss My Ass’ club ~
Backstage, in the McMahon Family Quarters, the family (Shane, Stephanie {sat on Triple H’s knee} Vince and Tomko) are sat watching a monitor from the previous clip, and unsurprisingly, they are smiling broadly. The camera pans out, and reveals another guest in the room watching the clip … the recently drafted William Regal. Regal has one of his classic faces on, looking like someone just farted in his company.
As a disgusted Regal stands and watches, Vince stands up, and walks beside him, with Regal softly speaking to his boss.
William Regal: You wished to see me, sir??
Grinning from ear to ear, Vince puts his hand around the shoulder of a still disgusted Regal.
Mr. McMahon: Don’t worry William, I didn’t ask you to come around here just to see that cherished memory. No, no. I understand you’re new to Monday Night Raw, and as your boss, I’d like to make you feel at home.
William Regal: You don’t-
Mr. McMahon: Ah, ah, ah. William, I’ve always liked you. I’ve always held a special place in my heart, and personally, I’d be thrilled to see you succeed here on Raw. That’s why tonight, I’ve given you a wonderful opportunity to get yourself a foot up on the ladder.
Regal pensively, suspiciously, looks at the boss through the corner of his eye.
Mr. McMahon: You’re going to be part of this evenings gauntlet match, facing Christian. And as a reward for representing my interests tonight, I’m announcing you as one of the six competitors for the Raw exclusive Money in the Bank briefcase at Backlash.
Boos ring out in the background, as Regal looks impressed. Vince tightens his grip on the shoulder of Regal, as he quietens his own tone.
Mr. McMahon: Now, I want you to listen, and I want you to listen carefully … I’m not expecting you to beat Christian tonight, hell, I’m not even asking you to.
Raising his eyebrows slightly, Vince continues with his point.
Mr. McMahon: Now, keep in mind, you don’t have to win tonight … but unless you want to be puckering up next to my backside again?? You had better deliver.
Vince knowingly nods at Regal, as the Englishman looks a little conflicted, but nods anyway, knowing what’s best for him at this stage, as we fade out…
***
Fireworks at the beginning of WrestleMania 23
‘The Glitz and Glamour has gone’
Confetti falling at the close of last night.
‘The Pomp and Pageantry has passed’
Shots of the celebrities on show last night, the grand entrance of The Undertaker, and the musical performance for John Cena.
‘All that remains…’
Everything goes dark.
‘… Is the Backlash’
Shots of dark, dingy streets, the polar opposite of WrestleMania, as the Backlash logo flashes across the screen.
WWE BACKLASH | APRIL 22 | CENTRE BELL, MONTREAL
ON PAY PER VIEW
***
Back to ringside…
Jim Ross:
William Regal looks like a rock in a hard place if you ask me Coach.
The Coach: Well no one’s asking you, so butt out.
Jim Ross: I’m here to give an opinion Coach, I’m here to call things like I see it, and the way I see it tonight, I’m calling a damn freak show. This isn’t the WWE, this is a two hour ego boost, for the most maniacal man on television. First of all, we had John Cena face both members of MNM-
The Coach: I already explained why that is, but whatever…
Jim Ross: Later we’re gonna see the World Champion run a gauntlet-
The Coach: As a tune up for Backlash…
Jim Ross: And in the main event, Mister McMahon and his precious son Shane, are almost certainly going to become World Tag Team Champions.
The Coach: Finally, you’ve come around to my line of thinking. Welcome to normality old timer.
Jim Ross: I didn’t say it was a good thing. About the only good thing Mister McMahon has done tonight is sign a match between Kurt Angle and Matt Hardy. The two new acquisitions as a result of last weeks draft will debut on Raw tonight, and they’ll face each other. That’s the type of thing I wish we could see throughout the night … not these lopsided handicap matches, and glorified beatdowns.
**SOMEBODIES GONNA GET IT**
For the first time since WrestleMania, the music of The Brotherhood fills the PA, and the new look group enter … with Theodore Long leading out Mark Henry, Shelton Benjamin, the familiar looking JTG, and one extra member that doesn’t look so familiar.
Jim Ross: Shelton Benjamin, joined by his Brotherhood cohorts, is in action in just a few moments, facing the Intercontinental Champion Rey Mysterio. And, we are expecting Theodore Long to introduce those new members of the long running group, when we return.
Commercial Break
~ McMahon Family Cherished Memory; January 1999; As the #2 entrant, Mister McMahon wins the Royal Rumble, eliminating (thanks to The Rock) Stone Cold Steve Austin to make history ~
We return, in the ring, where Theodore Long is stood, waiting for the music to die down…
Theodore Long: Lemme holla at’cha playas!!!
Heat for the smiling mouthpiece.
Theodore Long: Tonight, I promised a new look Brotherhood for the world to see, after the departures of our Thuggin and Buggin enterprises, Rodnay Mack, baby girl Jazz, and our boy, OJ.
Little reaction.
Theodore Long: But as the sayin goes, out with tha old, and in with tha new. It was time for a spring cleanin, and time to move on, and that’s what the Brotherhood has done.
Long motions for JTG and the other new man to come forward, with the two men standing either side of him.
Theodore Long: And now, let me proudlay introduce to you, our newest additions; ‘Just Too Good’ JTG, formerly of Smackdown until being drafted to Raw last week, and this man right here, a former SuperBowl startin linebacker for the Buffalo Bills, a man that aint a stranger to the big time … ‘The Alpha Male’ Monty Brown!!!
Immediate heat for both JTG and Brown, just for the association with Long.
Theodore Long: And tonight, Tha Brotherhood be hitting the reset button, and Tha Brotherhood is about to make it’s mark on Raw once again, ya feel may?? That starts with the Black Diamond himself, Shelton Benjamin, beatin little Rey Mysterio, and goin one step closer to winnin back our Inter-continental title!!!
Another smattering of heat.
Theodore Long: So Rey Rey?? Let’s not be wastin any more time avoidin the inevitable playa. Bring yourself out here, and let’s get ta’ business, ya dig??
Long passes the mic, as he, along with JTG, Brown and Henry, exit the ring, whilst Benjamin waits for Rey.
**BOOYAKA 619**
The diminutive Intercontinental Champion bursts onto the stage, looking to move on following a heavy loss to Mister Kennedy last week. There is no rest for the champion though, as he steps into another tough test in the form of the man he defeated for the title in January, Shelton Benjamin.
Jim Ross: Well Coach, you’ve always been very outspoken about your admiration for Theodore Long, and The Brotherhood, so what’s your thoughts on JTG and the former NFL linebacker, a starting linebacker in a Superbowl to boot, Monty Brown joining the ranks??
The Coach: We sat here last week and talked about the potential JTG had when he was drafted over to Raw, and it was unlimited. That kid is gonna go far, especially under the guidance of my boy, T-Lo. As for Monty Brown?? Man, look at that guy, he already comes from a high level background. He’s a born athlete, born to compete, as far as I’m concerned, The Brotherhood just got dealt a pair of aces.
Rey gets inside the ring, and hands over his title belt, as the bell rings…
Match 2 | NON-TITLE MATCH: Shelton Benjamin w/ The Brotherhood vs. Rey Mysterio
It’s a terrific, fast paced encounter, with Rey cautious in the early going, knowing the threat of The Brotherhood on the outside. The two engage in super quick chain wrestling, countering one another, slipping in and out of one another’s grasp, and partaking in the trading pins spot, as they counter from cradles to roll ups, to roll throughs and flips, with a succession of two counts, before both backing away with the two men in a stalemate. The fans cheer, but Benjamin takes the moments break to take some advice from the knowledgeable Theodore Long. With that, the two men then lock up again, with Benjamin overpowering Mysterio, but as he tries to establish his dominance Mysterio kicks it up a notch, surprising Shelton with a burst of speed, springing off the ropes, and taking Shelton down with a cross body!!
Rey then has Benjamin on the back foot for a moment, with his speed bamboozling the former champion, and after he scores with a succession of stiff kicks, Rey looks to run off the ropes, coming back, looking for a head scissors … BUT GETS CAUGHT WITH A SIDE WALK SLAM AS HE SWINGS AROUND!!! That move allows the momentum to swing into Benjamins favour, and the Black Diamond gets to work in beating down Rey. After a short period of dominance, and a few near falls, Benjamin sends Rey into the corner, then charges in for a Stinger Splash … BUT REY MOVES OUT OF THE WAY!!! The IC Champion now runs off the ropes, and takes Shelton down with a hurricanrana, then hops onto the ropes on the outside, looking to score with a seated Senton … BUT THEODORE LONG JUMPS ONTO THE APRON, PROVIDING A DISTRACTION … and Benjamin is able to hop up, and dropkicks Mysterio … WITH REY TUMBLING TO THE FLOOR!!!
Long is admonished by the official for his blatant distraction, which has allowed the momentum to swing back in his clients favour, but whilst this conversation takes place, we see Mark Henry dropping a leg on the IC Champion on the outside!!! And with the referee still distracted, Monty Brown puts himself to use, running Rey into the barrier, before JTG follows up and hip tosses Mysterio onto the thin mats. Inside, Benjamin has now fully recovered, and slips to the outside to clean up, and puts the boots to his adversary, before rolling him back inside. Now, Benjamin gets a little cocky, as he sizes Rey up, and gets him into position for the T-Bone … but Mysterio slips out, runs off the ropes, slides through the legs, then hit’s the opposite ropes, coming back, into a wheelbarrow attempt from Shelton, INTO A BULLDOG FROM REY!!! He quickly hops onto the ropes, and splashes off, onto the back of Shelton, rolling him over, and making the cover, as the Brotherhood holds their heads as they watch on … 1...2...KICK OUT!!!
Benjamin survives, but it’s the inspired Rey that’s in the ascendancy now, and as Shelton gets to his feet, Rey, from behind, nails him with a dropkick, sending the former champion stumbling into the ropes, allowing Mysterio to dial up the 619 … BUT BENJAMIN AVOIDS IT!!! Rey swings into the ring, and stops himself, getting up, looking around … and turns into Benjamin, who springs up … WASTES NO TIME … T-BONE EXPLODER!!! Benjamin quickly hooks the leg, having caught the champion, 1...2...3!!! Winner: Shelton Benjamin @ 08:18
Huge win for Benjamin over the Intercontinental Champion, inflicting Mysterios second defeat in as many weeks. The Black Diamond has his hand raised, and looks down at the beaten Rey, showing a knowing smile, as he inches closer to another crack at the title. He looks up and nods to the outside, in the direction of his guidance, Theodore Long, with the rest of The Brotherhood looking thrilled with their in ring leader.
Jim Ross: That’s a huge win for Shelton Benjamin Coach. A huge win over the Intercontinental Champion.
The Coach: You say it like you’re surprised old timer. You know my feelings on Shelton, and you sure as hell know what I think of that little pest that’s holding the Intercontinental Championship hostage. How he is still holding that belt after his defeat to Mister Kennedy last week is beyond me.
Jim Ross: I’m not getting into this again, Coach. Why don’t we focus on the future - the seemingly bright future - for your favourite gang, The Brotherhood.
The Coach: Don’t call them a gang Jimbo, it’s a group.
Jim Ross: It was like a damn gang assault when Mysterio found himself on the outside. You saw Monty Brown and JTG do a number on him, and don’t tell me that big four hundred pound leg of Mark Henrys didn’t do some damage.
The Coach: Hey, you mess with one of us, you mess with all of us.
Jim Ross: Us?? Are you classing yourself with The Brotherhood??
The Coach: Don’t say you weren’t warned, old man.
We now see The Brotherhood leaving up the aisle, with Benjamin and Long backing up, watching the fallen Mysterio slowly getting to his knees, being handed his title, looking up at his conqueror tonight, as Benjamin has his hand raised by Theodore.
Jim Ross: Ladies and Gentlemen, still to come tonight, the World Heavyweight Champion is in action. But unfortunately, I cant possibly call the gauntlet that Christian faces tonight fair in anyway. Just like John Cena earlier this evening, Christian is being thrown to the wolves, courtesy of the man in charge … a vengeful Mister McMahon.
The Coach: And don’t forget to mention it’s McMahon Appreciation Night!!!
Jim Ross: Oh, how rude of me. As The Coach just brilliantly pointed out folks - earning his pay check this week - it is indeed McMahon appreciation night, and the McMahon Family Empire are undoubtedly intent on appreciating themselves, because our main event tonight is Vince and Shane McMahon challenging CM Punk and Greg Helms for the World Tag Team Championships.
The Coach: Don’t go anywhere!!!
The camera now switches backstage, and we see ‘HBK’ Shawn Michaels … WALKING~!!
Jim Ross: Well ladies and gentlemen, it would appear we are set to see The Showstopper himself, Shawn Michaels. What does he have to say about tonight’s freak show?? We’ll find out, when we come back.
Commercial Break
~ McMahon Family Cherished Memory; March 2000; Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley defeats Jacqueline to become WW(F)E Womens Champion ~
We then return to the quarters of the McMahon Family Empire, as we see MNM stood talking with Mr. McMahon, as the camera picks up the conversation at the mid-point.
Mr. McMahon: … you held up your end of the bargain, you humiliated John Cena, as I asked. So yes, you’re going to get what I promised you. Now, Shane and I, we’re not interested in holding the World Tag Team Titles for an extended amount of time. I just love making history. The way I see it, Shane and I can work out some sort of deal in a few weeks, and in the process, you can once again be the World Tag Team Champions.
MNM, rightfully, look delighted, with massive smiles, showing off the pearly whites, as Melina steps forward.
Melina: That is wonderful Mister McMahon. And please, any time you need anybody for anything?? Myself, Nitro and Mercury are only a call away. We would be delighted to help you at any turn. And, I think I speak for Joey and Johnny when I say we are truly grateful for whatever arrangement it is you make for us to once again hold the tag team titles. But, if I may, could I ask … one more favour??
Vince tilts his head slightly, a little surprised by the request. Melina smiles, making a gesture with her index finger and thumb to suggest it’s a small favour.
Melina: Johnny and Joey are itching to get their hands on Punk and Helms. They- we, don’t care when or where, we just want a crack at Straight Edge to prove our point, once and for all., over who the dominant tag team really is.
Vince fiddles with his jacket for a moment, then nods.
Mr. McMahon: How about … MNM versus Straight Edge … at Backlash. And better still, how about … should Straight Edge leave Madison Square Garden tonight with their tag team titles in tact … then that match at Backlash, will be for the world tag team championships.
Melinas eyes light up with glee, as Nitro and Mercury smile and nod.
Melina: That … would be perfect.
Melina reaches up, and kisses Vince on the cheek, as Vince smiles.
Mr. McMahon: Of course though, we all know that there is … well, there’s just no chance in hell … that Straight Edge are leaving here tonight with the tag team titles.
With a sadistic grin, Vince looks at the three members of MNM, with the three of them nodding in agreement.
Mr. McMahon: And maybe, Melina … you and I should … discuss this matter further, privately, a little later??
Melina, knowing the intention, grins devilishly, and nods, before rubbing his arm.
Melina: I’d love to, Mister McMahon.
Vince now extends his arm, showing the group out, but as he opens the door … SANTINO MARELLA, joined by Layla and Leyla, steps into the room, glancing a look at MNM, turning up his nose at his former associates, as he proceeds inside, without an invite from a livid Mr. McMahon.
Mr. McMahon: What the hell is the meaning of this??
Vince stops, and narrows his eyes, pointing at the un-contracted Italian.
Mr. McMahon: Do I know you from somewhere??
Shane, now standing, chips in.
Shane McMahon: He’s that guy that’s been finding a way into the building for the last two months without a contract.
With that, Vince now remembers.
Mr. McMahon: Ah, I know you … and you’re beginning to annoy me.
Marella gulps, then quickly tries to talk himself out of trouble.
Santino Marella: Mister Mac-Man, I, a- Santino Marella, am here to a show my appreciation for you. Layla L and Leyla M are here to show their appreciation too.
Vince takes a leery look at the scantily clad MTV Diva Search winners. (Yep- I changed the course of history. Generic Blonde #239 didn’t win the 2005 competition.)
Santino Marella: Ahhh, you like them, yes?? Well sir, I a like you toooo.
Instantly, Vince looks furious, and the rest of the room all look around after the last comment, with Santino realising how it sounded.
Santino Marella: NO!!! Not a like a that. I don’t errr … swing for that team. No, Mister Mac-Man, I’m here to offer my-a services … I mean, offer myself to you. NO!! I mean-
Vince stops the nonsense.
Mr. McMahon: SHADDUP!!! I’ve had enough of listening to you. I’ve had enough of your snivelling. You’re supposed to be a wrestler, right??
Santino smiles proudly.
Santino Marella: Ahh, you’ve heard. (Looks to Layla and Leyla) I told you he knew who I was.
Vince, still seething with the Italian idiot, ignores his stupidity.
Mr. McMahon: Why don’t we put that to the test tonight, huh?? I hope you’ve brought your gear-
Santino Marella: I’m wearing it under my clothes.
Vince glares at Marella, furious. He then speaks again, though this time through his teeth.
Mr. McMahon: Don’t you dare interrupt me. You get your gear ready, because I’m making you one of the members of the gauntlet tonight. You’re facing Christian, and if you win, I’ll gladly give you a contract. But if you lose?? Then for every week you show up here, without a contract, I’m gonna make you suffer. So much so … that you’ll never want a job here. Now get out.
Shane creeps up behind Santino, and quietly speaks in his ear.
Shane McMahon: You’d better get out, while you can.
Santino finally takes heed, and sheepishly, leaves the room, bringing Layla and Leyla with him, as Vince tries to calm down, with the picture fading.
…
Into the arena…
**SEXY BOY**
The music of Shawn Michaels gets The Garden on it’s feet, and HBK bounces into view, looking pleased to see the fans, dressed in a white t-shirt, faded jeans and old school cowboy boots, with his cross being easily recognised hanging over the top of the shirt.
Jim Ross: It has been a tough start to 2007 for HBK. First, the Showstopper was embroiled in an ugly war with Randy Orton, defending the honour of the Nature Boy Ric Flair, but all the while, he had a maniacal Mick Foley on his tail, culminating in a brutal showdown just two weeks ago at WrestleMania. Shawn Michaels has been through the ringer Coach.
The Coach: But he’s got the night off tonight. I’ll agree, HBK has been through the wars so far this year, the battles with Orton, steel cage match, falls count anywhere, and who can ever forget, the unsanctioned match with Foley. But J.R, he gets paid to compete, he gets paid to put his body on the line, yet out of the kindness of Mister McMahons heart, he’s got the night off.
Jim Ross: Yeah, I’m surprised he hasn’t been put in a match against a hungry Bear with one arm tied behind his back and blindfolded. I mean, that’d fit with Mister McMahons style of matchmaking here tonight.
The Coach: Good idea. I’m gonna forward that one onto the boss.
In the ring, HBK jives around, smiling to the fans, as the music dies down, allowing him to talk.
Shawn Michaels: OH MY … NEW YORK, NEW YORK!!!
Cheap pop from the fans, with HBK leaning over the ropes with a smile etched on his face.
Shawn Michaels: There aint a greater place to be for a competitor like myself, than at the worrrrrlds most famous arena, MADISON SQUARE GARDEN!!!
Another cheap pop.
Shawn Michaels: Y’know, The Garden holds a special place in my heart. It was right here, in MSG, that I revolutionized the ladder match-
Michaels stops, allowing a couple of cheers.
Shawn Michaels: Here, in the Garden that I won the first ever Elimination Chamber match - winning the World title, in only my second match in over four years.
Light cheers continue, with HBK looking around the arena.
Shawn Michaels: This place … this place is like hallowed ground. For years, they’ve said I’m the best big match performer … and they don’t come much bigger than under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden.
Shawn nods, getting a respectful cheer, before continuing.
Shawn Michaels: But boys and girls, I got some bad news for ya.
HBK changes his expression slightly.
Shawn Michaels: Because yours truly, HBK … isn’t in action tonight.
Boos from the fans, with Michaels nodding.
Shawn Michaels: My sentiments exactly. But, y’know … as much as it makes me feel funny to do it, I gotta give the boss man a little credit.
Heat for the mention of Vince.
Shawn Michaels: I mean, I’ve been through hell this year already. I’ve taken on Randy Orton more times than I can remember, one on one, no DQ, inside a steel cage, even all around merry ‘ol England.
Michaels pauses momentarily.
Shawn Michaels: And some of ya mighta heard about it. I fought a guy called Mick Foley at WrestleMania. It was nothin really, except for the blood … the barbed wire … the tables … the flaming tables … thumbtacks, steel chairs, two by fours, and a whole lotta violence.
HBK leans back on the ropes, brushing his forehead, as if to wipe the sweat from it, then in an over the top manner, takes a deep breath.
Shawn Michaels: So … maybe I need a week off…
Heat from the fans.
Shawn Michaels: I mean, I’m gonna be one of the six men competing for the Raw exclusive Money in the Bank contract at Backlash … I need to catch ma breath!!!
More boos from the fans, as HBK holds onto the ropes, taking a few deep breaths, then shrugs.
Shawn Michaels: Caught it.
The Showstopper smirks to the fans, with many cheering.
Shawn Michaels: I’ve caught my breath now, I’m all rested … and I’m raring to go again!!
More cheers from the fans.
Shawn Michaels: So how about tonight, r-
**VIRTUAL VOODOO**
Uh oh. HBK is cut off by the music of the undefeated, 350 pound savage Umaga, with Armando Estrada leading out the Samoan Bulldozer. In the ring, HBK has a blank expression on his face, watching the duo make their way to the ring.
The Coach: Did Mister McMahon just hear your Bear suggestion?? I don’t know, but I think I’d rather fight a bear than the Samoan Bulldozer!!!
Coach laughs, as J.R rises above it.
Jim Ross: Well, as you just heard, Shawn Michaels is officially part of the six man, one fall to a finish, Raw exclusive Money in the Bank match at Backlash, and folks, you are looking at another of those six men right now, Umaga.
The Coach: And just remember how close Umaga was to climbing the ladder at WrestleMania to retrieve the briefcase. Who the heck can stop him at Backlash??
Jim Ross: It’ll be one fall to a finish Coach, and that means Umaga wont have to be involved in the decision to lose the match.
Estrada and Umaga enter the ring, with Michaels staying on his guard, as Estrada reaches to the outside for a mic. The music dies down, as we see Estrada smiling, as he does, in the direction of HBK, before turning to the audience.
Armando Estrada:Todos, escuchenme, everybody listen, HA HA … to me … And if ju didn’t know already el monos, my name es ARRRRRRRRMANDOOOO … ALEJANDRRRRROOO …. ESSSSSSTRRRRADAAAAAA!!!!
Boos from the fans, after some join in the introduction. Estrada now turns his attention back to Michaels.
Armando Estrada: And ju, mi amigo, Aitch Bee Kay … ju may not know it, but ju got a couple of things … comos se dice … IN COMMON … with The Samoan Bulldozer.
Estrada points at Umaga, with the savage standing still, staring a hole through HBK, breathing heavy.
Armando Estrada: That’s right, ju’re both going to be part of the Raw exclusive Money in the Bank match at Backlash … ju’ve both been through the wars. Ju, Shawn Michaels, have been in steel cages, no disqualification matches, and … uhh, how ju say … unsanctioned matches.
Estrada then turns his attention to Umaga, standing beside his beast.
Armando Estrada: And Umaga?? Umaga has been in ladder matches, fights, and just last week, he was in a Belfast Brawl. And, just like ju, tonight, the Samoan Bulldozer has got the night off.
Michaels continues to listen intently. Estrada meanwhile, starts to grin more devilishly.
Armando Estrada: Pero, unlike ju, Umaga … he doesn’t need tonight off.
Estrada now steps forward, moving toward Michaels.
Armando Estrada: Unlike JU, hombre, Umaga is undefeated … undefeated … do ju understand me amigo?? I said … UN-DEFEATED!!!
Estrada now gets in Michaels face.
Armando Estrada: Unlike ju, he doesn’t need to ask for a challenge … he just finds it, ha ha.
Suddenly, the mood changes, with Estrada ripping off his sunglasses, with HBK realising what it about to go down.
Armando Estrada: So hombre, ju’re looking for a piece … of the action?? Well, congratulations … ju just got yourself a piece ooooff … THE … SAAAA-
MICHAELS SMASHES HIS MIC INTO THE HEAD OF ESTRADA!!! Quickly, HBK jumps at Umaga, pre-empting an attack, pounding him into the corner, mounting on the ropes, and hammering away at Umaga. The fans count along … but all of a sudden, Umaga bursts into action, and flings Michaels off, with HBK falling over the top rope, and lands on the apron … BUT UMAGA TURNS HIM INSIDE OUT WITH A STUNNING RUNNING CLOTHESLINE!!! Shawn flies off the apron, crashing hard onto the floor, whilst Umaga stands in the ring, looking down at HBK, as the legend writhes in agony on the floor.
Estrada picks himself up off the mat, picking up his hat, and barking orders at Umaga, demanding him to get after Michaels on the outside. Umaga takes the orders, and drops down, rolling out, and stamping on Michaels, before picking him up, and ramming him into the ring post. Shawn slumps to the floor, with Umaga grabbing his arm, and dragging him up the steps, back into the ring. Umaga follows in, kicking HBK as he sits up, putting him back down.
Still, AAE barks orders at his savage, and Umaga drags HBK up, into position, then swings him around, AND DELIVERS A SPINNING SLAM TO MICHAELS!!! Not finished there, the Samoan Bulldozer drags Shawn to the corner at the behest of Armando, then backs out himself, waiting for Michaels to get up, then charges across … RUNNING BUTT SPLASH!!! The Showstopper slumps down like a drunk, with Umaga dragging him back up, looking to Estrada … and Estrada snaps a cigar in half … AND UMAGA DELIVERS THE SAMOAN SPIKE!!!
**VIRTUAL VOODOO**
The Samoan Bulldozer stands over a broken HBK, having dominated the legend, in a brief brawl, as Estrada raises his beasts arm into the air, looking down at Michaels, with a cocksure grin etched on his face.
Commercial Break
~ McMahon Family Cherished Memory; June 2002; Mister McMahon defeats Ric Flair to reclaim 100% ownership of the WWE ~
And once again, we join the McMahon Family Empires HQ, as Vince is sat down, now with his jacket off, as he begins to prepare for the main event tonight. Sitting across from him … Theodore Long.
Mr. McMahon: You know the deal Teddy. If you scratch my back, I can scratch yours. Now, young Shelton has staked a big claim for a shot at Mysterio. That was a big win for him tonight, impressive. But for him to get that title shot … I’m gonna need something from you.
Theodore sits forward, excitedly.
Theodore Long: Mister McMahon, you just gotta name it, and it’s done playa.
Vince smiles, liking the enthusiasm.
Mr. McMahon: Excellent. Well, as you know, I’ve arranged this gauntlet for our World Champion … uhm, it’s actually in just a few seconds, so I’d better make it quick. Basically, I’d like you to-
Theodore Long: Ya don’t need to say another word playa. I feel ya. So, lemme holla this at cha- Tha Worlds Strongest Man, Mark Hen-ray, represents Mister McMahon against Christian.
The wheels begin to turn, as Vince nods, smiling.
Mr. McMahon: I like that Teddy. I like that a lot.
The two men get up, and shake hands, both smiling.
Theodore Long: We wont let ya down Mister McMahon.
Long then attempts to pull away … but Vince doesn’t allow him. Long starts to look a little uneasy, looking down at the hand. Vince then steps in close.
Mr. McMahon: Tell Henry to do a number on him … if you catch my drift.
Theodore nods.
Theodore Long: Understood.
Long then exit’s the room, as we fade out…
…
And backstage, Triple H is stood with Tyson Tomko, as the Problem Solver warms up, most likely to be part of the gauntlet match. The whispering is indistinct, but as they talk, Tomko spots Kurt Angle, with the Olympian approaching. Tomko alerts The Game, patting his chest, and pointing behind him. Triple H turns, and comes face to face with the always intense Angle, dressed for his match later, and holding his mouth guard…
Triple H: After something??
Angle smirks, and replies.
Kurt Angle: Oh, you bet.
Angle steps into The Games space, and tries to intimidate, as he sharply continues.
Kurt Angle: I’m after that title shot.
Triple H tries to blow it off, and laughs lightly.
Triple H: I’m sure we can discuss something after Backlash Kurt … now run along.
Kurt shakes his head, still showing a bit of a smirk.
Kurt Angle: There isn’t gonna be anything to discuss. I know it should’ve been me getting the shot at Backlash. Everyone who watched Raw last week knows that … But when I win the Raw exclusive Money in the Bank match at Backlash … you wont have a choice. And it wont make a difference who runs the company … no one can put a stop to it.
No more smirking … it’s intense Angle that’s come out to play.
Kurt Angle: Face it, it doesn’t matter who you’ve got in your pocket … you can only hide from the truth for so long. And the truth, Hunter?? The truth is that I’m superior to everyone on Raw … everyone in the WWE … even you … It’s true … (whispers) …it’s damn true.
Backing away, Angle glares at Triple H, who stands firm, as we fade out…
Into the arena…
**JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES**
It’s time for the gauntlet match!! Christian enters the arena, title around his waist, but looks pensive, not confident.
Jim Ross: You are looking at the man that in less than three weeks at Backlash defends the World Heavyweight Championship against Triple H. Tonight though, Captain Charisma is in serious jeopardy of not being able to make it Backlash. Tonight, he is running a damn gauntlet, thanks to the genius of Mister McMahon.
The Coach: Finally, you’ve accepted Mister McMahon for what he is!!
Christian reaches the ring, and pounds his chest, pointing to the fans, ready to take on all comers, despite knowing he’s battling almost insurmountable odds.
**BORN NAUGHTY**
William Regal enters to a mixed response from the fans, after being strong armed into this position earlier tonight.
Jim Ross: This is a bad spot for Christian. Starting off with the veteran native from Blackpool, England. A man with a big point to prove.
The Coach: Regal is about to take that ingrate for a lesson.
Match 3 | GAUNTLET MATCH: Christian vs. William Regal
The two instantly lock up, with Regal looking to rough house the champion, schooling him with chain wrestling in the early going, keeping him grounded, but Christian fights back quickly, and scores a near fall off a sudden gut buster. Regal kicks out though, but Christian stays on top, then looks to run off the ropes, but as he comes back, gets caught with a running knee strike from the Brit. Regal then chucks the champion out of the ring, following out himself, and sends him into the steel steps, before we head into a commercial.
Commercial Break
{/SECOND HOUR}
And we return, with Regal wearing Christian down in the ring, applying a chinlock, as we get clips from the commercial, with Regal choking the champion on the ropes, and hammering Christian in the corner with stiff forearms, doing a real number on him, as requested by McMahon. Back live, Christian now fights out of the rest hold, elbowing free, but as he makes a run for the ropes, Regal pulls him down by the hair. He ignores the admonishment of the official, then watches as Christian struggles up, and charges off the ropes, coming back, and connecting with a running knee lift, putting the champion down once again. Regal now drags Christian back up, and looks for his specialist neck breaker, but Christian slips out, and surprises Regal with a quick DDT, before making a cover, 1...2...KICK OUT!!!
Christian looks to keep on the Brit, and drags him up, but Regal strikes back, raking the eyes of the champ. Again, he ignores the calls from the referee, and delivers with a double arm suplex, delivered perfectly, floating over for a cover, 1...2...NO!!! Now, the veteran begins to get anxious, and as he pulls the champion up, he hammers at Christian, using his knees, and sends him to the corner, then rushes in … BUT CHRISTIAN MOVES!!! He then swings over the ropes, swinging his legs into the face of Regal, before following up quickly, and delivering the Unprettier!!! He hooks the leg instantly, 1...2...3!!! Winner: Christian @ 07:57
**BLOOD**
There’s no rest for Captain Charisma, and it’s a surprising second opponent, making a one night only appearance; his former cult leader, GANGREL!!! The vampire jogs to the ring, as Christian looks up, watching him approach the ring, and Gangrel slips inside…
Match 3b: Christian vs. Gangrel
Gangrel goes for a quick clothesline, but Christian ducks under, kicks the vampire in the gut, then goes for a second Unprettier … but Gangrel slips out, then kicks Christian in the gut, and again, throwing a couple of quick right hands as a follow up, softening up Christian for a release T-Bone suplex, scoring a near fall. The vampire drops a succession of elbows on the champion, gaining another two count, but is unable to get the win. Gangrel then runs off the ropes, but as he comes back - Christian scores with a dropkick!!! The veteran struggles back up quickly, and into a deep arm drag, quickly rising again, but this time, is easy pickings for Christian, and the champion delivers with a reverse DDT, before quickly climbing the ropes, AND FLIES WITH A FROG SPLASH!!! The leg is hooked, 1...2...3!!! Winner: Christian @ 01:37 (09:34)
**SOMEBODIES GONNA GET IT**
It’s Mark Henry, backed up by Theodore Long, and the Worlds Strongest Man locks his eyes on the ring, whilst Christian rests on a knee, trying to catch his breath, as we fade to a commercial…
Commercial Break
Match 3c: Christian vs. Mark Henry w/ Theodore Long
We return with Christian fighting for his life, kicking and punching at the tree like Henry, unable to take him off his feet, but looks to be wearing him down, and decides to charge off the ropes, and launch himself at Henry … bad idea. Henry catches him … AND SLAMS HIM INTO THE CORNER!!! Backing out, Henry then charges back in, CRUSHING Christian in the corner. The champion struggles back out, right into the path of a massive clothesline, courtesy of Henry. The Worlds Strongest Man now backs into the ropes, coming back out, and drops a leg!!! He covers, 1...2...KICK OUT!!! Henry now methodically dominates Christian, scoring another couple of near falls with basic offence, using a couple of slams, then comes close with a splash, but Christian refuses to give in. Unable to put Christian away, Henry takes advice from his outside influence, Teddy Long, and applies a bear hug, taking the air from Captain Charisma.
Christian looks to be fading, with Henry applying the watertight bear hug, much to the delight of Long on the outside. Christian appears to be done, and the referee checks on him, with the champions arm dropping twice … but at the third attempt … IT STAYS IN THE AIR!!! Christian, feeding off the fans support inside the Garden, begins to fight back, and his barrage of right and left hands look to be working, as Henrys grip weakens, AND CHRISTIAN BREAKS FREE!!! The champion hit’s the ropes, coming at Henry with everything he’s got, running into the brick wall twice, with Henry teetering … but the third time, Christian doesn’t charge at him … instead, he dropkicks the knee!!! Henry goes down to a knee, and Christian follows up, with a second dropkick, this time to the face, AND HENRY IS DOWN!!!
The fans are chanting his name, as Christian now grabs the legs, AND LOOKS TO APPLY A SHARPSHOOTER … BUT HENRY KICKS HIM AWAY!!! Christian tumbles across the ring, into the corner, as Henry pulls himself up, pushing the champ away as he comes back at him, then catches him … AND DELIVERS THE WORLDS STRONGEST SLAM!!! Henry surely has it won, and makes the cover, 1...2...KICK OUT!!! Henry refuses to accept the kick out, and hooks the leg twice more, but on both occasions, Christian kicks out. Now, we see Theodore SLIP A CHAIR TO HENRY?? The referee tries to grab the chair, but Henry has a hold of it, and only one of them is winning that contest. Henry shoves the referee away, and instantly, the bell rings, signalling a DQ. Winner: Via DQ - Christian @ 06:39 (16:13)
Henry then stomps on the referee, as it becomes clear the win wasn’t the biggest thing on his mind here … it was to inflict damage. Henry cracks the chair over Christians head, then sets it on his torso, backing into the ropes, coming back … AND SPLASHES ON THE CHAMPION!!!
The Worlds Strongest Man has played his part in this mugging, and gets to his feet, with Theodore Long clapping furiously, loving what he’s just seen, as Christian lays motionless on the canvas.
**X-PAC**
Time for our next entrant, and another blast from the past on a one night only deal - the old running mate of Christians Backlash opponent Triple H, X-Pac. The former D-Generate charges to the ring, making a cover, but the referee is still out!!!
We see Mark Henry and Theodore Long leaving the stage, as Shane McMahon drags out another referee, ordering him to the ring, with the referee doing what he’s told, and runs to the ring…
Match 3d: Christian vs. X-Pac
The referee makes the count, 1...2...KICK OUT!!! X-Pac is in shock, and grabs the referee by the shirt, yelling in his face, as the fans shower him with ‘X-PAC SUCKS’ chants. He gives the fans the bird, and waits as Christian gets up, AND LEVELS HIM WITH A SPINNING HEEL KICK!!! Again he covers, 1...2...NO!!! Christian refuses to stay down, as X-Pac drags the champion to the corner, setting him up as he backs out, giving the fans the old crotch chop … AND LOOKS FOR THE BRONCO BUSTER … BUT CHRISTIAN MOVES!!! Christian avoids the humiliation, as he staggers to his feet, with Pac on him again, looking for a backslide … BUT CHRISTIAN COUNTERS … TURNS HIM OVER … UNPRETTIER CONNECTS!!!! He drapes an arm over X-Pac, 1...2...3!!! Winner: Christian @ 01:15 (17:28)
No music plays, but the camera spots SANTINO MARELLA charging to the ring, as Christian rises to his feet. Marella slides in…
Match 3e: Christian vs. Santino Marella
Marella slides in … and runs straight into a cradle, 1...2...3!!! Winner: Christian @ 00:04 (17:32)
**PROBLEM SOLVER**
The McMahon Family Empires own ‘Problem Solver’, the turncoat, and former best friend of the man he is about to face, makes his way down the aisle, sporting a goofy smile, as Christian struggles up, and Marella charges at the champion, BUT GETS LOW BRIDGED, AND TUMBLES TO THE OUTSIDE!!!
The fans laugh at the pathetic Italian, but as that happens, Christian gets to his feet … AND SPUN AROUND BY X-PAC … X-FACTOR!!! X-Pac gains a measure of revenge, giving Christian the crotch chop, as Tomko now moves in, climbing onto the apron, nodding to Pac as he exits. Slowly, Tomko enters.
Match 3f: Christian vs. Tyson Tomko
Tomko stands over Captain Charisma, laughing at his former best friend, putting a boot on his chest … AND WALKS OVER HIM!!! Christian writhes in agony, as Tomko laughs it up, dragging the champion to his feet, talking more trash. But, as he talks the trash … CHRISTIAN SPITS IN HIS FACE!!! Tomko looks taken aback by the spit, and wipes his face … THEN CHARGES THROUGH THE SPENT CHAMPION WITH A CLOTHESLINE!!! Christian folds up on the canvas, as Tomko drops down, making the cover, 1...2...KICK OUT!!! Tomko now roughhouses his former friend into the corner, sticking his boot in his face, breaking the choke at four, with Christian struggling out of the corner, gasping for air, but Tomko doesn’t allow him away, and hurls him back into the corner, executing an open palm chop!!!
Again, Christian reels out of the corner, with Tomko following closely, sending him off the ropes, and sending him over with a back body drop … BUT CHRISTIAN ROLLS OVER … AND LOOKS FOR A DESPERATION UNPRETTIER … BUT TOMKO ESCAPES … AND SCORES WITH A SIDEWALK SLAM!!! He makes the cover, 1...2...SHOULDER UP!!! Tomko pulls Christian back up, BUT CHRISTIAN SOMEHOW FIGHTS BACK!!! Christian staggers Tomko with a hat trick of quick rights, then runs off the ropes … BUT SANTINO MARELLA TRIPS HIM!!! Christian spins around, and kicks out at the pesky Italian, then turns around … INTO A BIG BOOT!!! The cover is made, 1...2...FOOT ON THE ROPE!!!
Still, Captain Charisma refuses to give in, finding anyway possible to survive this onslaught. Christian now struggles to his feet, but looks completely and utterly shattered, as Tomko SCORES WITH A SECOND RUNNING BOOT!!! The champion crumbles to the ground, but Tomko STILL isn’t done. He scoops Christian up with ease, onto his shoulders, and taunts the fans … THEN DELIVERS A PUMPHANDLE SLAM!!! The Problem Solver covers … 1...2...3!!! Winner: Tyson Tomko @ 03:01 (20:33)
Christian has FAILED to run the gauntlet. After a mammoth twenty minutes battling the odds, it all become too much for Captain Charisma to overcome. Five wins, but ultimately, one loss against the fresh Tyson Tomko, after suffering a sneak attack from X-Pac.
Tomko has his arm raised in the air, giving him undoubtedly, his biggest win to date, regardless of the circumstances. He looks down at the champion, who has yet to move, then looks to the stage…
**BEHOLD THE KING … THE KING, OF KINGS**
Now what??
It’s THE GAME!!! Triple H saunters onto the stage, in his street clothes, with the trusty sledgehammer slung over his shoulder. The Game slowly makes his way down the aisle, to all kinds of heat from the fans, whilst Tomko smiles in the ring, having just laid the groundwork for Triple H to swoop in.
Triple H eventually reaches the ring, and hops onto the apron, pointing to the chair that Mark Henry had earlier used, with Tomko fetching it. The Game steps inside the ring, and lines the sledgehammer up, with Christian trying to pull himself up on The Game … SLEDGEHAMMER TO THE SKULL!!!
Captain Charisma stays down this time, as Triple H takes a walk around the ring, soaking up the animosity from the fans, before requesting a mic. He gets the mic, and takes the chair from Tomko, unfolding it, and setting it across the neck of Christian, sitting down, looking down at the World Champion as the fans continue to show their displeasure for Trips.
Triple H: You’re on borrowed time, Champ.
The heat for Triple H is deafening, as he continues to look down at Christian, who is now bleeding heavily, whilst choking him with the chair he’s sitting on.
Triple H: Tonight?? Tonight was simply a taster for the hell you’re going to experience at Backlash.
Pushing his weight down further, Triple H continues to talk.
Triple H: This is just the beginning … at Backlash, you’re gonna experience the real thing … at Backlash, you’re truly going to experience hell …
Pause.
Triple H: IN A CELL!!!
Massive heat, but gasps of anticipation too … TRIPLE H VERSUS CHRISTIAN AT BACKLASH - HELL IN A CELL!!!
In the ring, Tomko hands Triple H the World title, and The Game simply drops it beside the champion.
Triple H: I told ya I was comin for it … and at Backlash, I’m takin you through hell to get it.
Slowly, Triple H rises off the chair, but keeps his eyes locked on the writhing World Champion.
**KING OF KINGS**
The music hits again, as Triple H stands side by side with Tyson Tomko, raising one anothers hands.
Jim Ross: Hell in a Cell?? At Backlash?? My word, Triple H just took full advantage of his Father in laws power. The Game will meet Christian in the damndest, most sadistic, career altering match in all of sports entertainment. THAT’S just how much The Game craves the title. The Game is willing to go to hell, he is willing to go through hell to take back that title from Christian.
The Coach: Like it was ever in doubt?? Triple H’s objective has always been the big gold belt. And trust me, that Cell?? It’s like a second home for The Game.
Jim Ross: He ended Mick Foleys career inside Hell in the cell, he halted Chris Jericho inside the cell, and he all but finished the career of Kevin Nash inside that demonic structure … and you can bet your ass he’s got the same vindictive plan on his mind when it comes to April Twenty Second in Montreal at Backlash, when he faces Christian. My God, how can Christian overcome The Game inside that cell??
Commercial Break
~ McMahon Family Cherished Memory; October 2006; The McMahon Family reunite, and in turn, help Triple H win his tenth World Championship ~
Backstage, we see Christian, bloodied from the sledgehammer shot, being helped through the back by two referees, barely able to stand on his own two feet. The World Heavyweight Champion looks to stop though, and sits on a chair, waving the two referees off, wanting to be left alone at this point.
Christian sets the belt down beside himself, and looks down on the floor, touching the gaping wound on his head, looking at the blood now on his hand … as we see a pair of sneakers enter view, standing in front of the champion … Christian looks up, and the camera pans up too … revealing JOHN CENA.
The fans come alive with a mixed response, as Christian rolls his eyes at the man he ousted for the title at WrestleMania.
Christian: Not now.
Christian attempts to grab the belt and get up, but Cena puts a hand on his shoulder, stopping him.
John Cena: No. Now.
Captain Charisma yields, and sits, but looks far from happy at being dictated to.
John Cena: You and me?? We been down this road already. We’ve stood together, side by side in the past, and we got the better of the McMahons. But look at us now…
Christian turns his head away, looking at his belt. Cena spots it, and changes his topic momentarily.
John Cena: Keep lookin at it. Because at Backlash, it’s gonna be gone.
The champion swiftly looks at Cena, in surprise.
John Cena: Not because you aint got the heart, not because you aint got the desire, and it damn sure aint because Triple H is better…
Cena kneels down, making sure Christian looks him eye to eye.
John Cena: It’s cause they’re gonna break ya first.
With that, Christian gets up, as the tension rises. Eye to eye, neither man blinks, with Cena continuing.
John Cena: Damn, we’re right back at where we started. Sure, you’ve got the belt for now, but you’re already fightin the odds!!! They got you by the throat right now, and believe me, they aint gonna stop until they squeeze the damn life outta ya. Cant ya see?? If we take them on alone … we’re done for. We got one shot of winnin this war. One shot…
Eerie silence. Still looking one another dead in the eye, Cena and Christian stay silent momentarily, with Cena giving Christian a moment to think, before speaking again…
John Cena: Now we can call a truce, for now, and survive … or we can go it alone … and face the Backlash. Your call …
Cena pats the belt.
John Cena: Champ.
Cena doffs his cap and turns, leaving the bloodied Christian to think it over.
…
Back to ringside…
Cody Rhodes is already in the ring, awaiting his opponent…
Jim Ross: Ladies and Gentlemen, we are about to see one of the newest additions to the Raw roster in action. The second generation prospect, young Cody Rhodes, has an opportunity to make an immediate impression on Raw. And folks, still to come of course, Kurt Angle and Matt Hardy, arguably the two biggest draft picks for Raw last Monday, will meet, one on one.
The Coach: Just don’t forget the main event baby boy.
Jim Ross: Oh, how could I?? {/sarcasm}
**KENNEDY**
The 2006 King of the Ring strides onto the stage, looking relaxed, confident and assured, ahead of this test for the young Cody Rhodes.
Jim Ross: And we have just gotten confirmation folks, that that man right there, Mister Kennedy, will be one of the six men battling for the Raw exclusive Money in the Bank contract at Backlash. Kennedy joins Shawn Michaels, Umaga and William Regal as confirmed entrants for that match, in which the winner earns a title shot good for one whole year - EXCLUSIVE to Raw.
The Coach: And after he dismantled Rey Mysterio last week, the man that should by all rights be the Intercontinental Champion could just bypass the title, and grab himself a shot at the big one. That’s where he deserves to be.
Match 4: Cody Rhodes vs. Mister Kennedy
Short match, with Kennedy coasting to a win. Rhodes isn’t squashed, and puts up a brave fight, but it’s obvious from the outset that he’s out of his depth, with Kennedy able to withstand the offence of the youngster, never looking troubled. J.R puts over the fighting spirit of Cody throughout, but in the end, the class of Kennedy shines through, and despite a few kick outs from Rhodes, it all leads to an inevitable ending, as Kennedy mercifully puts the kid out of his misery with the Mic Check, and hooks the leg, 1...2...3!!! Winner: Mister Kennedy @ 03:37
Pretty emphatic. Kennedy rolls off Rhodes, and gets to his feet, brushing his hands together, and looking down at his beaten opponent, before reaching into the air … and the old school microphone drops down, getting a pretty big cheer from the fans.
Mr. Kennedy: Do I really need to tell you people who the winner of this match is?? … Was it EVER … in doubt??
Some heat rains down on the cocky King of the Ring, who readies himself to continue.
Mister Kennedy: Madison Square Gardennnn … say hello to the winner of this match … AND, THE NEXT … MISTER MONEY IN THE BANK-AH …
Deep breath, and a cocky look from the corner of his eye…
Mister Kennedy: MISTERRRRRR … KENNADAYYYYYY!!!
Kennedy then rolls under the bottom rope, and to a young fan in the front row, wearing a ‘WrestleMania 23’ shirt.
Mister Kennedy: Go on kid, finish it off…
Kennedy holds the mic out…
Young Kid: -
And Kennedy pulls the mic away.
Mister Kennedy: KENNADAYYYY!!!
A lot of heat pours down on the King of the Ring, with Kennedy soaking up the animosity, as he chucks the old school mic away, before proceeding up the aisle, smiling broadly.
Commercial Break
~ McMahon Family Cherished Memory; April 2001 ; Shane McMahon defeats The Big Show in a Last Man Standing match, taking a miraculous 50 foot plus drop to finish off the giant ~
And as the clip ends, the shot zooms out, and we see Vince and Shane standing around their widescreen television alone, watching the package, with Shane looking impressed with his own feat.
Mr. McMahon: Now Shane, as awe inspiring as that is to watch, I don’t think you’ll need to go that far tonight.
Shane McMahon: But, if needs be, Dad. If I have to do that for us to become the first ever father, son tag team champions in WWE history?? You can count on Shane O’Mac.
A knock on the door is heard, as Mr. McMahon, without looking around, shouts ‘COME IN’. With that, WWE official Mike Chioda steps in, looking pensive, as both Shane and Vince turn to greet him.
Mike Chioda: You wanted to see me, Mister McMahon??
Smiling at the official, Vince begins, nicey-nicey.
Mr. McMahon: How are you today, Mike??
Taken aback, Chioda responds guardedly.
Mike Chioda: I’m er… I’m good.
Still smiling, albeit falsely, Vince speaks.
Mr. McMahon: Excellent. Now, you’ve been an employee here, what?? Fifteen years at least??
Still sounding nervous, Chioda is quick to reply, and continues on in that same nervous manner as the conversation goes on.
Mike Chioda: Yeah.
Mr. McMahon: And in that time … you’ve been treated well, right??
Mike Chioda: Absolutely. I love my job.
Mr. McMahon: That’s nice. Real nice. You’d say I’m a good boss, right??
Mike Chioda: Terrific sir. You’ve been terrific.
Mr. McMahon: Good answer. Now, Mike, tonight … tonight, you’ve been assigned the main event. Correct??
Mike Chioda: I have indeed, Sir.
Mr. McMahon: Hmmm … so, let’s just speculate here. Say … say Shane here, decides he wants to use a trash can, and crush it over the head of Greg Helms. Or say he grabs a steel chair in the heat of the moment, and scrambles CM Punks brains?? Out of curiosity … what would you do Mike??
Chioda pauses for a moment, thinking the question over, almost in fear of the repercussions of his answer. Before he replies, Vince talks again.
Mr. McMahon: Now Mike, think about that for a moment, and take into account all the good things I’ve done for you over the years. Think about those years I’ve kept you on, even promoted you to senior official. I’ve paved the way for you to get ahead in your career. I’ve provided you with a livelihood Mike. Remember that. Take all of that into account …
Chioda gulps, and responds, very sheepishly.
Mike Chioda: Well … with all due respect sir, as my boss, I would hope you could understand my reasons for why I would call for the bell, and signal a disqualification.
No response. Vince ponders, and nods, not showing any displeasure or happiness, then softly speaks.
Mr. McMahon: In that case Mike … I hope you can understand my reasons as to why from this moment … you’re suspended.
McMahon doesn’t get worked up in the announcement, dropping the bombshell on Chioda softly, with Mike nodding, knowing it would be pointless to argue with the ego-maniacal boss. Chioda turns to leave…
Mr. McMahon: Oh, and Mike…
Chioda turns around…
Mr. McMahon: Tell Nick Patrick I want to see him.
Chioda nods, saying nothing, as he closes the door. Meanwhile, Vince and Shane look at one another, with knowing grins on their faces.
Mr. McMahon: I love this job!!
…
And cut to Todd Grisham, who is standing by…
Todd Grisham: Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome, my guest at this time, Raws latest arrival from Smackdown, Matt Hardy.
The camera shows a focused and determined looking Matt, with the fans giving him a nice ovation, with the women getting a little giddy.
Todd Grisham: Now Matt, tonight marks your first appearance on Monday Night Raw since coming over in the draft, making it your first match on Raw in over two years. In those two years, it’s been safe to say you’ve grown as a competitor immensely, having held the United States Championship on two occasions in the last twelve months. Now that you’re back on Raw though, what are your long term goals??
Matt Hardy: Long term goals?? Well Todd, just like every other superstar on the roster, I’ve got one long term goal … and that’s to be World Heavyweight Champion.
Small pop in the background.
Matt Hardy: But Todd, it’s a long road, and there’s a heck of a lotta bumps along the way. It’ll be one step at a time. And tonight is the start. Tonight, it’s time for Matt Hardy for spread his wings, and show the entire world what he’s made of, and that’s exactly what Imma do. I’m just comin off the best win of my career just last week … the last time I’ll ever team with my brother, and we defeated the WWE Tag Team Champs in our own back yard. That win right there … it may not alter the course of my career … it wont be the most important win of my career, it wasn’t even for a title … so why call it the best of my career?? Because of this.
Matt pounds his chest (signalling his heart)
Matt Hardy: That victory last Friday will be close to my heart forever. And that’s the one thing you cant take away from me Todd … my heart. Because, while I’m not the biggest … not the fastest, or the most technically gifted … no one can say they’ve gotta bigger heart than I do. And my heart Todd?? My heart is what’s gonna drive me forward … it’s what’s gonna separate me from the pack.
The camera closes up.
Matt Hardy: It’s what’s gonna make me … one day … the World Heavyweight Champion.
The sound of clapping is heard, as Matt turns … and KURT ANGLE is stood. The Olympian stops clapping, and walks toward Matt, with the two locking eyes.
Kurt Angle: Just to let you know … that day you become World Heavyweight Champion?? It’s a lifetime away. Because while you’re dreaming big, Matt?? I’m thinking realistic … and realistically?? I’m gonna dispose of you tonight … then I’m moving on to whoever the hell is holding that World title you’re dreaming of. Only I’m not dreaming of having it … I’m taking it.
Now zoning out of ‘intense mode’, Angle smirks.
Kurt Angle: And as for that heart of yours?? We’re gonna see how big it is in just a second. And we’re gonna find out just how strong it is … because I’m planning on breaking it … just like I’m gonna break your ankle.
Condescendingly, Angle pats the arm of Matt, then walks off, leaving Matt looking angered, as J.R speaks as we head into a commercial…
Jim Ross: It’s Matt Hardy facing Kurt Angle, in a battle of the draftees … and it’s next!!!
Commercial Break
~ McMahon Family Cherished Memory; March 1999; Shane McMahon becomes the WWE European Champion, defeating X-Pac ~
Back into the arena…
**LIVE FOR THE MOMENT**
Matt Hardy steps out onto the stage, and nods at a great reaction from a red hot crowd. He bounces up and down on his toes, shaking his arms loose, then signals to the fans, before making his way down the aisle.
Jim Ross: What an opportunity to make a sudden impact on Raw for Matt Hardy. This Coach, could be the former Intercontinental and United States Champions coming out party. If he could pull out a win over Kurt Angle here, he would instantaneously turn heads, and get a heck of a lot of people talking.
The Coach: Good luck to him, but this is all about Kurt Angle for me baby boy. The Olympic Gold medallist is FINALLY on Raw. For the first time since the inception of the brand split, Kurt Angle is officially a member of the Raw brand!!
Jim Ross: Exciting times for our fans if you ask me Coach. Kurt Angle, arguably, the greatest performer in WWE history officially back on Raw, and Matt Hardy, one of the biggest talents in the wrestling world today. And Coach, both men will be a part of the one fall to a finish, Raw exclusive Money in the Bank contract match at Backlash.
The Coach: So, by my calculations, that’s a full house. Shawn Michaels, Umaga, these two guys, William Regal and Mister Kennedy himself. Quite the cast if you ask me old timer.
Jim Ross: Quite the line up indeed Coach, and one of those six men will be leaving Montreal in three weeks time with a golden opportunity at becoming World Heavyweight Champion.
**MEDAL**
And despite being an all out heel, Angle gets an initial MASSIVE pop from the fans inside the worlds most famous arena, with the Olympian looking pumped for his first run on Raw since the brand split.
Match 5: Matt Hardy vs. Kurt Angle
The two lock up early on, but it’s clear to see they’ve got little time, as the feeling out process doesn’t last too long, with Angle quickly taking Matt down, and working his game on the ground, with Matt struggling to keep up with the awesome gold medal winner. Hardy forces a break, and once back to his feet, starts to get into the contest, scoring a near fall off a side suplex, but Angle soon takes over again, softening Hardy up with an array of European uppercuts in the corner, but isn’t able to execute an attempted Belly to Belly, with Matt fighting out, but being unable to take over, as Angle remains in control, scoring a couple of near falls, but none of which appear to be genuine opportunities to end proceedings.
Matt survives the onslaught though, and escapes Angles clutches, brawling to his feet, rocking the former world champion with a succession of blistering right hands, eventually knocking Kurt down with a big discus punch. The knockdown gets a big pop from the fans, with Matt feeding off the energy from them, charging into the corner, clobbering Kurt with a clothesline, squashing his opponent, following up with a bulldog, scoring an almighty two count. Matt drags Angle up, backing him into the ropes, then looks to send him off for a whip, but Angle turns him inside out, pulls him in, AND DELIVERS A BELLY TO BELLY!!!
Angle roars with intensity, then sizes Hardy up, as he struggles slowly to his feet, swooping in, going behind … and scores with a release German suplex!!! He covers, 1...2...KICK OUT!!! Angle is being made to work hard for this one, and he knows it, as he looks to set Matt up for the Angle Slam now, attempting to finish, but as he goes for it, Matt drops behind, and as Angle turns around, MATT CATCHES HIM … SIDE EFFECT!!! He makes the cover, 1...2...KICK OUT!!! Many fans inside the Garden now get behind Matt, with Hardy taking it to Angle, pounding him into the corner, then sending him across the ring to the opposite corner. He charges in … BUT ANGLE GETS A BOOT UP!!! Matt staggers out, as Angle races behind … AND SCORES WITH ANOTHER RELEASE GERMAN!!! Another cover is made, 1...2...KICK OUT!!!
Hardy continues to fight, refusing to stay down, with Angle pounding the mat, then dragging his spirited opponent up, backing him into the corner, and gets him set up, into position, looking for a superplex, BUT HARDY FIGHTS BACK … BLOCKS IT … HAMMERS AWAY AT ANGLE … AND SHOVES HIM OFF!!! Angle crashes onto the mat, and Matt now positions himself, signals to the fans … AND DELIVERS THE DIVING LEG DROP!!! Hardy hooks the leg, looking for his biggest win to date … 1...2...SHOULDER UP!!! With the last ditch kick out, Matt sits up, in disbelief, running his fingers through his hair, knowing just how close he was to a life altering victory. Sensing that victory is within his grasp now, Matt is quick to get back to work, dragging Angle up, and yelling to the fans once more … AND GOES FOR THE TWIST OF FATE … BUT ANGLE GRABS THE TOP ROPE … AND HARDY LANDS ON THE MAT ALONE!!!
Hardy crashes onto the mat, AND ANGLE INSTANTLY SWOOPS IN … AND GRABS THE ANKLE … ANKLE LOCK APPLIED!!! Hardy squirms, reaching for the ropes, yelling in agony, as Angle cranks the body part, looking for the submission, but Matt refuses to tap, clawing toward the ropes … BUT ANGLE DRAGS HIM TO THE CENTRE OF THE RING!!! Now, Matt is stranded, and unable to get himself to the ropes … BUT HE COUNTERS THE SUBMISSION … AND THROWS ANGLE OFF!!! Angle falls to the mat, and looks up in shock, with Matt surviving the hold, to a rapturous ovation.
Angle though, is incensed, and charges back in to go for it again … but as he grabs the ankle, MATT COUNTERS … INSIDE CRADLE … 1...2...KICK OUT!!!
Angle spins away, looking around in shock again as Hardy surprises him once again, nearly grabbing the win. Matt struggles up, selling his ankle injury, but as Kurt comes at him, Matt surprises him once again, ducking under, then kicks him in the gut … and LOOKS FOR THE TWIST OF FATE AGAIN … BUT ANGLE KICKS THE ANKLE!!! Instantly, Hardy pulls away, hobbling on his ankle, and Angle doesn’t waste a second … ANGLE SLAM!!! The match could be won with that, but Kurt doesn’t win a pin … he wants a submission … and the ANKLE LOCK IS APPLIED A SECOND TIME!!! Hardy gallantly tries to fight it, looking to claw his way to safety … but it’s impossible, AS ANGLE GRAPEVINES THE LEG!!! It leaves the spirited Hardy with no other option … but to submit. Winner: Kurt Angle @ 09:12
Angle keeps the hold clamped on for an extra few seconds for good measure, before releasing and having his hand raised. The Olympian then pulls away, and holds his arms aloft, giving out a trademark yell.
Jim Ross: Full credit to Matt Hardy for putting up a terrific fight tonight. He gave Kurt Angle a heck of a scare, but my word, is there a man on this planet on their game quite like Kurt Angle is right now??
The Coach: Umm… in a word … no. Kurt Angle is quite simply, a wrestling machine. On this form, he’s gonna run through all five men at Backlash, and hardly break a sweat.
Jim Ross: Never before has a man rebounded off a gut wrenching loss, and came back so strong. Kurt Angle is right now, on the form of his life, and I cant think of a man that’ll be able to stop him, regardless of what he wants to do.
The Coach: Watch. Out. Raw.
Commercial Break
Backstage, Kelly Kelly is standing by, with the current tag champs.
Kelly Kelly: I’m here with Straight Edge, minutes away from their very first defence of the World Tag Team Championships, when they face the owner of the WWE, Mister McMahon, and Shane McMahon. Guys, how do you prepare for a match like this, knowing that your opponent … is also your boss.
CM Punk: Well Kelly, ya don’t. It’s as simple as that, you just don’t. How many people take on their boss at work?? Not in a dispute over pay, not in an argument about leaving early on a Friday … but actually taking them on. Does Bill Gates award himself employee of the month?? I don’t think so. Is Malcolm Glazer the starting quarterback at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?? Wasn’t the last time I checked. Does the Colonel hand out Zinger meals at KFC?? No, he doesn’t.
Punk smirks for a second, and rubs his chin.
CM Punk: Y’see, in most walks of life, owners own, bosses boss, managers manage. They don’t get involved with the workers, they don’t challenge their employees to take them on. But this Kelly?? This is World Wrestling Entertainment. Throw logic out the window, because Mister McMahon has to be part of the show … no. Scratch that. Mister McMahon has to be THE show. Tonight, it’s McMahon appreciation night, and to round off a wonderful nights entertainment … my tongue is firmly in my cheek when I say that … we’re going to see the McMahon Family conspire to take the World tag team championships from Greg and myself. Dodgy officiating?? Oh, you can count on that. Rules bending?? For sure. The best team winning?? Don’t bet on it.
Helms now takes over.
Greg Helms: After everything we’ve been through Kelly … after the months of breathing down the necks of MNM to finally win these belts … in all likelihood, all that hard work is gonna be for nothin. Because like the Punkster said, it’s not gonna be an even playing field. We cant rely on the referee to call it straight … we cant expect to see any disqualifications. We’re not just fighting the odds here … we’re fighting a battle we just cant win. No matter what we do, no matter how we do it … no matter how much better we truly are … the chances of us leaving New York with these belts … the belts we’ve bled for … the belts we’ve chased after for months on end … it’s zero.
Helms takes the belt from his waist, and throws it over his shoulder.
Greg Helms: And we’re gonna be losing them on the whim of an egomaniacal chairman. Vince hasn’t been dreaming of this moment for months. He hasn’t been working every minute of every day for the last six months with his ultimate goal being to win the tag team titles. The idea popped in his head last week. All of OUR hard work is gonna be for nothin. But Kelly … we may be heading into battle, knowing our fate … but we’re gonna be the fighting champions we said we’d be. We’re not surrendering these belts.
Punk and Helms now look at each other, nodding, knowing what awaits.
CM Punk: Like Greg said, we’re pretty sure of our fate … but we’re goin down fighting. The McMahons may walk outta here with these belts … but they’re gonna have to break every rule, they’ll have to cut every corner … and they’re gonna face the fight of their damn lives.
Helms now takes the mic again, and turns to the camera.
Greg Helms: This isn’t the board room … you don’t win these belts by slamming your fist on a table … you want to cap off the night by making history?? Then you’re gonna have to earn it … Boss.
Greg slams the mic down, and the tag champions head off.
…
Back to ringside…
**HERE COMES THE MONEY**
To a huge chorus of boos, Shane McMahon bounces onto the stage, wearing a black version of his baseball style shirt, and the back reads “Straight Edge; you just got PUNKED” at the top, and along the bottom “By a HURRICANE coming through”.
Accompanied by Stephanie, Shane dances his way to the ring, looking relaxed, overly confident, as he SHAKES HANDS with Nick Patrick, the assigned referee for this contest, as does Stephanie.
Jim Ross: I honestly cannot believe I’m calling this circus. We just heard from a defiant Straight Edge, and Coach, I know you’d rather poke your eyeballs out that give those two credit, but Punk and Helms are already resigned to their fate. They know this is a war they cant win, regardless of how much better they are. After all their hard work, after months of chasing down MNM, coming back, time after time, it’s all gonna be for nothing.
The Coach: That’s not the impression I got. Yeah, they’re resigned to the fact that tonight, they’re gonna get found out. They know they’re the biggest myth in the WWE.
Jim Ross: Absurd.
In the ring, Stephanie has the mic, and screeches to the fans.
Stephanie McMahon: Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my honour to present to you, the owner of World Wrestling Entertainment, the man who made this night happen … please, GET ON YOUR FEET … and APPRECIATE … VINCENT, KENNEDY, MCMAHON!!!
**NO CHANCE IN HELL**
The heat is insane, as the egomaniacal owner of the WWE saunters onto the stage, standing tall at the top of the ramp, by the massive poster of himself that has been set up all night long. He flexes his muscles to the camera, then points to the titan tron … and another huge poster of him unfurls, and the fans shit all over the love in.
Vince now begins to power walk down the aisle, ignoring the abuse of the fans, as we fade out into the final commercial of the night…
Commercial Break
{/OVERRUN}
We return, with the McMahons waiting for the champions…
**MISERIA CANTARE**
Quickly, Punk and Helms enter the worlds most famous arena, basking in a wonderful ovation, looking to one another, knowing the fate that awaits them, but looking ready to put up a fight. They punch knuckles, AND RUN TO THE RING!!!
Punk and Helms slide inside … BUT PATRICK STANDS IN FRONT OF THEM, STOPPING THEM FROM ATTACKING THE MCMAHONS!!! The fans shit all over the officiating, whilst Punk and Helms also argue with the official. Nick Patrick ushers them to the apron, looking to start the match the right way.
Main Event | WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS MATCH: Straight Edge vs. Mister McMahon & Shane McMahon w/ Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley
It’s Punk and Vince to start, with the two locking up, and Punk instantly getting a headlock, but NICK PATRICK ORDERS A BREAK!!! He pulls Punk away, and admonishes him FOR PULLING HAIR!!! Punk laughs, then points to Vince, indicating to Patrick that the boss has hardly any hair at all. The two men circle, and lock up again, and this time, Punk trips Vince, then drops down, BUT AGAIN, IS STOPPED BY PATRICK!!! Punk jumps to his feet, and is told that Vince was at the ropes (which he wasn’t), and the champion shakes his head in disbelief … BEFORE VINCE PLANTS A LOW BLOW!!! Punk drops to his knees, as Patrick indicates it was a shot to the groin, much to the dismay of Helms.
Vince pummels Punk on the mat, then tags in Shane, with Shane waiting for his opponent to get up, then unleashes his Muhammed Ali tribute, floating like a butterfly, and stinging like one too, but Punk fights back, beating Shane with right hands, and knocks Shane down with a high head kick, then goes for the cover… but DOESN’T get a count. Patrick refuses to count, as Punk get to his feet, asking why … and is told that he used a closed fist when punching Shane. Punk throws his arms up in the air, unable to fathom this freak show, whilst J.R goes ballistic on commentary too. Punk then backs Shane into his corner, and tags Helms in for the first time.
Greg and Punk then whip Shane off the ropes, looking to double team, but once again, Patrick intervenes, telling Punk he’s already reached the count of five!!! Punk again, is bewildered by the officiating, as Helms gets on with the job, taking Shane over with an arm drag, then applies an arm lock, with Vince running straight in, kicking Helms in the head, breaking the hold. Patrick … does nothing. On the outside, Punk is getting more animated, looking around, shaking his head. Shane now gets to his feet, and picks Helms up, scooping him, and slams him. He then drops a forearm, and makes a cover, 1...KICK OUT … BUT PATRICK CONTINUES TO COUNT … 2 … KICK OUT AGAIN … BUT THE COUNT GOES ON … AND PUNK DRAGS PATRICK OUT TO STOP THE THREE!!! On the outside, Patrick claims to have had enough, and makes a beeline for the time keepers table, telling Lillian to make an announcement at his behest …
Lillian Garcia: Ladies and Gentlemen, the referee has just informed me, that if CM Punk or Greg Helms attempt to intentionally get disqualified again, he will strip them of the World Tag Team Championships. As a result, the titles can now change hands on a disqualification.
In the ring, Punk and Helms are bewildered, but almost look resigned to the fact that their worst nightmares are coming true … then, FROM BEHIND … VINCE AND SHANE NAIL BOTH MEN WITH STEEL CHAIRS!!! Nick Patrick sees it all, then signals to Lillian to restart the match, as if he had stopped it earlier!!! Vince now covers Punk - despite neither man being legal!!! 1...2...PUNK KICKS OUT … and makes sure to roll over, so as not to give Patrick the chance to continue to count him down. Vince now picks up the chair again, AND MOTIONS TO PATRICK TO HOLD PUNK UP. The referee duly obliges, and does it, trying to make it look like he’s helping Punk to his feet, and VINCE SWINGS THE CHAIR … BUT PUNK DUCKS … AND PATRICK GETS FLATTENED!!!
Vinces eyes boggle from his head, and it allows Punk to capitalise, kicking the chair from his grasp, then sends Vince into the corner, steaming in, BIG KNEE CONNECTS … and is followed by a running bulldog!!! Shane now looks to put a stop to it … BUT HELMS CUTS HIM OFF WITH A DROPKICK!!! Shane tumbles through the ropes, and Helms propels himself over the top, ONTO SHANE!!! On the outside, Stephanie is beside herself, not knowing what to do, as Punk signals to the fans, and hops onto the ropes, jumping off, and knocking Vince down again with a flying clothesline!!! Now, the tag champion signals for the Punk Card, and gets Vince up … BUT STEPHANIE IS ON THE APRON. The momentary distraction is enough … as TRIPLE H IS IN THE RING … and Punk turns … boot to the gut, and Punk drops Vince, as Trips hooks him up … PEDIGREE!!!
Tomko is at ringside now too, and BOOTS Helms in the head, putting him out of commission, whilst Stephanie now helps Shane to his feet. In the ring, Triple H now begins to shake Nick Patrick, whilst a groggy Vince pulls himself up on the ropes, with everything going to plan now for the McMahons. Outside, MERCURY, NITRO AND MELINA have joined the party, and pull a trashcan from under the ring, rolling it inside, and work together, getting Punk into position, whilst Shane slowly comes around, with Stephanie pointing to the top rope, looking for Shane to perform his party trick.
Slowly, Shane climbs the ropes, whilst Vince, still groggy, points to his son, clapping, with Shane positioning himself … BUT HELMS SAVES PUNK, AND KICKS THE ROPES … AS SHANE STRADDLES THE TOP!!! Instantly, MNM attack Helms, knocking him off the apron, whilst Tomko drags Punk from the ropes, and Vince looks to make a cover and end it now, with Patrick slowly coming around … but everything stops … Stephanie, pats Triple H arm, and points to the ramp, as the attention turns …
AS JOHN CENA ENTERS!!!
Cena slowly makes his way down the aisle, carrying a pipe … with the McMahon Family Empire laughing at him, as they expect him to take on the group alone …
BUT BEHIND HIM … HALF OF THE RAW ROSTER FOLLOWS!!!
In the ring, all the smiles drop, seeing the numbers game tumble against them, with every single baby face on Raw approaching (including William Regal, turning on his boss, and Mike Chioda ignoring his suspension) … and as they watch the faces of Raw approach the ring, starting a mutiny against the boss …
CHRISTIAN - HEAD WRAPPED IN A BLOOD SOAKED BANDAGE - COMES FROM BEHIND … AND SPINS THE GAME AROUND … AND TACKLES HIM DOWN!!!
With that, the fight is on, and the roster hit the ring, as all hell breaks loose, with the McMahon Family Empire facing a severe backlash. MNM are chased through the crowd, whilst Christian hammers Triple H out of the ring, with The Game backing off on the outside, and Tomko is overcome by DH Smith, Cody Rhodes, Rey Mysterio and even Scotty Too Hotty, as they beat him into submission, as he also hops the barrier to get away from the onslaught. Also, to a huge pop, MIKE CHIODA NAILS NICK PATRICK!!! One shot is enough, as Patrick is floored, and Chioda gets a massive pop.
Elsewhere, Stephanie is chased off by Cena, who mainly directs traffic, helping Punk to his feet. Triple H can now only watch with Stephanie at the top of the ramp, as Christian continues to chase The Game down, whilst Helms now climbs the ropes, grabbing Shane, who is still selling his fall onto the ropes … AND FLIES WITH A SWINGING NECKBREAKER OFF THE TOP ROPE!!! Shane is out of commission, and it just leaves Vince … who tries to beg off … but with a smile, Punk shakes his head. Vince then tries to run … BUT PUNK CATCHES HIM … ONTO HIS SHOULDERS … PUNK CARD TO THE BOSS!!! Punk covers, Chioda makes the count, 1...2...3!!! Winners: And STILL World Tag Team Champions - Straight Edge @ 06:19
The roof nearly comes off MSG, as the bell rings, with the champions retaining their belts!!! Cena, together with Regal, and help from Rey, DH Smith and Cody Rhodes, and Matt Hardy, they put the triumphant CM Punk and Greg Helms onto their shoulders, giving them their big moment.
On the outside, Vince stumbles to the barrier, with that being the only thing holding him up, whilst Shane stumbles onto the stage. Triple H and Stephanie disappear from view, with Christian still in pursuit, whilst in the ring, the celebrations continue.
As the champions hold their belts aloft though, the night isn’t quite over yet…
Mister McMahon: (Gasping) Cu- cut- cut, CUT THE - MUSIC!!!
The music duly cuts, as Vince staggers at the bottom of the ramp, with Shane also worse for wear alongside him.
Mister McMahon: This, this, isn’t, right. This just isn’t right.
Trying to shake the cobwebs loose, Vince attempts to make sense of his rambling.
Mister McMahon: You- you cant- cant get away … you cant get away with this mockery. Him!!!
Vince points to Chioda.
Mister McMahon: He’s sus-sus- SUSPENDED!!! I sent him home!!!
Taking a moment to breathe again, Vince stops.
Mister McMahon: And all of you … y- you’ve … you’ve all just committed career suicide. I’m … I- I’m Vince McMahon DAMMIT!!! You’re all gonna rue the day that you crossed me. A- and as, as for you … C- Cena??
Staggering forward, Vince points at Cena, with a scowl on his face.
Mister McMahon: I’ve had enough of all you’re crap. I- I was gonna keep you around, and mess around with ya every week … but you … y- you … YOU’REEEEE
**RETRO WRESTLEMANIA**
IT’S LINDA MCMAHON!!!!! The robotic voice of reason steps onto the stage, with Vince slowly turning around, jaw dropping, flabbergasted at the sight of his wife … perhaps she just was miffed that she wasn’t invited to McMahon appreciation night??
The CEO stands at the top of the ramp, with a mic in hand (UH-OH~!!), as the rubbish music halts.
Linda McMahon: Hold it right there Vince. Because, it seems to me, you’ve got caught up in the moment.
Vince stays silent, listening.
Linda McMahon: You’ve been caught up in all the grandeur of this takeover … caught up in all the hype surrounding McMahon Appreciation Night … that you seem to be forgetting someone.
Still silent, Vince listens intently.
Linda McMahon: In fact, you’ve forgotten the one person you should’ve been most fearful of … because whilst you, Shane, Stephanie and Hunter have been wrapped up in this show of power, looking out for your own needs, and your own desires … you’ve forgotten the one member of this family who has the fans interests at heart.
Big cheer from the fans. Cheap pop tbh, whilst Linda prepares her next autocue line.
Linda McMahon: And most importantly, you’ve overlooked one incredibly important detail … I’m your wife.
Linda shows off her wedding ring to the camera, with the fans still cheering Robo McMahon.
Linda McMahon: And this ring Vince, this ring means … what’s yours … is mine.
Pop.
Linda McMahon: Don’t even try that divorce nonsense either … unless you want 50/50 ownership. Vince, I’m proposing we put a stop to the chaos. I’m proposing this circus ends … at Backlash.
Cheers from the fans. Vince though, uses this moment to break out the ever famous 'gulp'.
Linda McMahon: You want all the power?? This is your chance. One match. You pick one superstar to represent all of your wants and desires for the WWE, and I’ll do the same. If you win, then I’ll step aside. I’ll sign whatever papers I need to, and you can write me off all ownership of the WWE. It’ll be all yours.
More cheers from the fans, liking that outcome.
Linda McMahon: But - if my pick wins … then you’ll allow me to do what’s right for this company … what’s right for the fans … and take all the power from your grasp.
Huge pop.
Linda McMahon: I will put the company back on the stock exchange, and you’ll go back to the position you’ve always had on the board … but you will NEVER be allowed to appear on WWE television … EVER AGAIN!!!
Another enormous pop reverberates around the Garden.
Linda McMahon: It’s up to you Vince. We can go back and forth like this forever, and air our dirty laundry in public, or we can put a stop to this once and for all. The choice is yours…
The camera focuses now on Vince, who seems torn, knowing the consequences of failure at Backlash. He then pulls the mic up to his mouth, slowly replying.
Mister McMahon: You’re on.
Madison Square Garden pops for the acceptance, as Linda now waits for the fans to die down.
Linda McMahon: Glad to hear it. Oh, and Vince, you’ve got seven days to pick your representative. So choose wisely, because at Backlash … he’s going to face … JOHN CENA!!!
It’s a positive reaction this time for Cena, with the former champ nodding in acceptance in the ring, looking pumped for the opportunity to banish Vince McMahon from the WWE.
On the ramp, Vince turns, and looks at Cena, knowing that is the man that stands between him and complete and utter ownership of the WWE. Cena now turns on the intensity, glaring over the ropes at Vince … as we fade to black.
END OF SHOW
***
Official Card for WWE Backlash: Date: 22nd April 2007 Location: Bell Centre, Montreal Event Music: Breaking Benjamin, Breath
World Heavyweight Championship; Hell in a Cell Match: Christian vs. Triple H
Intercontinental Championship Match: Rey Mysterio vs. Shelton Benjamin
World Tag Team Championships Match: Straight Edge vs. MNM
All or Nothing: ~ If John Cena wins, Mr. McMahon must relinquish sole ownership of the WWE, and allow Linda McMahon to take the company public again ~ ~ If Mr. McMahons representative wins, he will be permitted to proceed with total ownership of the company ~ John Cena vs. Mister McMahons representative
Raw Exclusive Money in the Bank Match: Six Pack Challenge Match | One Fall to a Finish: Shawn Michaels vs. Umaga vs. Kurt Angle vs. Matt Hardy vs. William Regal vs. Mr. Kennedy ***
Man, it's been TOO long since I even skimmed through this thread to keep up with what's been going on. I can assure you though, after reading this latest episode of RAW, I'm definately about to catch up with some back-reading.
I can't imagine anyone doing a better job with the vast amount of characters you're crafting & utilizing here in your thread. I like that you've taken it upon yourself to introduce new characters & variations of actual gimmicks.
The promos all sound realistic. It's obvious that you've been a loyal fan of the real product, because you can write for a large variety of characters flawlessly. They all come across as convincing versions of themselves. Everything flows very well.
I like how you've elevated Christian to main event status. It doesn't feel as forced as it has in other BTB threads I've read. It just comes across like a natural fit - the way it SHOULD. When I read the way you booked him for this specific edition of RAW, it was realistic. I could literally see him being booked that way on television & having no problem with its credibility. Very good stuff. The gauntlet match, in particular, was extremely well written. And the part at the end, with Christian coming out all bandaged up, was just Babyface Champ Booking 101. Liked that.
The treatment you've given Kurt Angle is excellent. The same can be said for Matt Hardy & Mister Kennedy too.
The announcement of HIAC was handled almost perfectly. I liked the dramatic pause in Hunter's declaration. And the way the announcers pounced on it & reacted was great. I must admit, I did expect a little more follow-up on the announcement, but the hype can wait. There's still time before Backlash to emphasize that match, and it's understandable, because this show was already jam-packed with the McMahon Family angle. Something had to give.
Even so, the dramatic interaction between Cena & Christian was especially interesting. Again, I can't recall anyone handling Cena so well. I like that you've kept him babyface, because that's something most BTB threads do too often. They take it upon themselves to INSTANTLY book Cena as a heel, without much thought or motivation for it. They just think - hey, it's Hollywood Hogan 2.0, so it'll work. And it just doesn't come across as very realistic to me. Perhaps it's all in the writing. I'm not sure. But I like that you've continued to "walk that line" with his persona for now. Good stuff.
The promo you wrote for Shawn Michaels was awesome. I like that you had him retain most of his charismatic, cocky traits from before. It's the small things that really make a BTB thread for me, more so than the booking of big "dream" matches & far-fetched fantasy bullshit. That's what I enjoy most about your thread. You write for these characters like nobody else I know. It's genuinely intriguing. It draws me in, as a reader, and you've single-handedly renewed my interest through the reading of just one of your shows.
I'll do some more reading of the past shows when I get the chance. Looking forward to Backlash.
This is my first time reviewing this thread keep in mind I've only read from Wrestlemania onward. So if I don't get something that's why.
How come if Vince control's everything the two thorns in his side so to speak are in the Raw logo? I would think Vince would put himself Triple H and Shane there, lol not a big deal just throwing it out there.
Nice opening promo sounded very realistic. The odds are really stacked against Cena and Christian how this be, how could Cena ever beat the odds lol. Just kidding. I'm really wondering who will be in the gaunlet.
Very good opening match, standerd handicap match but it was very good nice way to open the show from a match standpoint. I'm sure MNM will get some kind of reward like a tag title shot or something because I'm pretty sure the McMahons won't beat Straight Edge.
Regal in the gaunlet ok, that's decent I'm hoping for a better guy then him but he's still a good guy to have in their. I can't picture him winning the Raw MITB but I guess It's possible. I didn't expect Orton to cash in at Mania either .
The Brotherhood with Teddy Long? An all Black heel stable ok, I'm assuming Benjamin is going to go for the IC Belt and Brown and JTG will fade into the tag division or something. Shelton versus Rey should be good.
Very, Very good match I expect Shelton to over, the Brotherhood help which I kind of expected it's the heel thing to do. Two wins in two weeks for Shelton so I'm assuming he'll be top cotender at Backlash which is fine with me, if you keep writing matches like this for these two I'll be happy.
Nice MNM-McMahon segment, they will face Straight Edge at Backlash and I'm pretty damn sure Straight Edge will retain now. (even though I doubted they will lose in the first place. But what are they talking over in private. (Is old Vincey going to pop out the Vigara)
Really good HBK promo, Umaga?? I guess they will both be in the Raw MITB which is getting stacked expected it to be like upper mid-card guys like Kennendy not HBK. Umaga beats the shit out of HBK that'd be an interesting fued, it's defanately never been done.
Christian wins round 1 of the gaunlet over Regal standerd Regal match, I'm assuming he will just move into MITB the Bank then go back to getting jobbed. Let's see who's next, you know I'm not even going to touch that one, I have no idea who that is and the match was like a minute.
Good match against Henry for what Henry is, Christians by DQ ok, I guess that's fine. Not really fan of this being in the middle of the gaunlet if it was going to have this ending. But ok. A one minute win over X-Pac whatever. Quick pin over Santino whatever I'm sure he'll just be a comedy act if you keep him around.
Tomko time, oh boy I'm Christian may acutally lose this time. Yeah the face champ battles his best but he goes down because this is like his fifth match or something. Triple H is coming ohh...
HELL IN A CELL OH MY GOD!!! I'm sure what I think about this, this fued barely has any live to it. That's what Hell in a Cell should be used for. Not to put over Hell McMahons and giving Triple H an advantage should be a great match but I guess I don't like Hell in a Cell just to give HHH the advantage
Cena-Christian segment was just kind of there
Hardy segment, was ok it did a nice job to put over Matt and build up his match with Angle. Plus I'm interested to here where the World Champ stuff goes, I'm assuming he'll be in the Six Pack Challenge
Very good match between Hardy and Angle, I really enjoyed it's up there with Mysterio-Shelton for MOTN. Hell you know what I'll call this match of the night for now and I doubt the McMahons can top it.
Very good Straight Edge Promo, I don't really like Punk I think he's better as a face but this promo was outstanding well done.
The main event was a clusterfuck, I liked all the face trying to stop Vince but still it was a little busy for me. The Lind promo was very good even though I don't really like it when she gets invovled. Cena is representing her, I'm really interested to see who represents Vince probably Tomko the way it's looking but ok. I bet Cena wins
Overall I really enjoyed the show all the match were at least solid and you had two really good ones. There were some very good promos and some averages ones. Hardy and Angle was match of the night. Overall I'll go 8.5/10 Great Show
Not Removing until (Started 5/26/10)
[] Edge becomes a Ten Time World Champion
[] Christian is in a World Title Match
[] The Miz main events Raw, Smackdown or a Pay-Per-View and wins
[/] Abyss Cleanly loses a match (Jeff Hardy, Impact 7/1/10)
[/] Daniel Bryan (or Brian Danielson) kicks someone's head in or makes them tap out (John Cena, Raw 6/7/10)
[] Zack Ryder wins a match on Raw
[] The Dudebusters cleanly win a tag match on Smackdown
Segment 1: Against The Odds This was a basic two on one beat down, with one very welcome exception...Superman didn't Super his way through these two. I'm happy that Cena showed vulnerability in this match, but the match itself wasn't overly exciting. ***/*****
Segment 2: A New Brotherhood I liked the Shelton win...even if it was at the hands of this new Brotherhood. I'm not really a big fan of either new member. JTG seems too street, and not nearly enough militant, to fit in with this gang. I'm shocked by the use of The Alpha Male. I'm not sure why you'd bring him. I enjoyed the Long promo...somewhat. ***
Segment 3: The Show Stops This was a really good promo that really kept Shawn in character. I thought the Umaga interuption was odd, but I thought Armando was funny, and I look forward to seeing what you do with this budding rivalry. ****
Segment 4: Vince's Power I will address all the backstage segments in one fell swoop. Looking back at all of them, it seems like there was a LOT. However, the show read so well, that I didn't really notice. Your use of Vince is top notch, as he's become one of my favorite characters of yours to read. The theme of the show (McMahon Appreciation) didn't come off as well as it shouldv'e, but it was entertaining all the same. ****
Segment 5: Christian's Caged Not one of the matches in the gauntlet was all that entertaining to read, but the concept of the whole thing came off well enough. I didn't think the use of Gangrel or 1-2-3 was all that necessary (you could have used contracted stars), so that was kinda weird. Tomko stopped the match, as well he should've have. And then the ending with Hunter was executed very well. When he enterted things really picked up, and I felt the intensity between these two. I am not a fan of the use of Hell in a Cell though. I don't really see the merit of this match being used at the pay per view after Wrestlemania, nor do I see the merit of it being booked with Triple H so soon after the Cena feud (which may not even be over). The promo afterwards seemed appropriate, if this is indeed going where Cena suspects it will. ***
Segment 6: And The Winner Of The Match... Mr. Kennedy picks up another big win on his way to the uppercard. Ken is my favorite to win the MITB match at Backlash, as he seems to need it the most right now. If he loses, it will kill the momentum that he needs to become a main event player. ***
Segment 7: Kurt Hurts I didn't really see anyway for Matt to win this. It was an oppurtunity for Kurt to stay relevent without coming over to be in any major feuds right away. I've heard everything Matt's said before, so I was happy to see Angle interupt him. The match was pretty good as well. ***
Segment 8: Straight Dead I thought the Straight Edge promo was very well done. The match was a circus, as well it should've been seeing as the McMahons aren't great mat technicians. The treachery which leads into the RAW locker room coming down to get them some was how this should've played off and it did. You really put the war against the unbeatable power of the McMahon Empire across. Linda comes out? I guess...but I didn't really think she put over the idea of the Backlash match well. We'll see how it goes. Cena was definitely the one who needed to be booked in it. Who will his opponent be??? Tomko I presume? ****
Overall It was another good show. I hope Vince doesn't win at Backlash, as I don't think I could stand these shows every week, but for a one night deal it came across well. ****
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Last edited by theplasmasnake : 09-30-2009 at 08:13 PM.
Slick little promo to start us off.The way you use Mr. McMahon is awesome. Some big match announcements, looking forward to seeing Christian run the Gauntlet. A Handicap should be no problem for Cena, lol.
Once again I must commmend you for your great banter between commentators. Exactly what you'd hear on a WWE show.
Whoa, shocking ending here. I'm glad MNM got the win, because they own, but I really didn't think Cena would get pinned. Solid match-up, nothing that blew my mind really. Typical handicap stuff, but with a very surprising ending.
Mr. McMahon again. I love him in your BTB. As always in character, and there's yet another twist in tonight's show. Regal better win MiTB or I riot.
Montoy Brown coming back to the WWE owns. Teddy was in character throughout, although the promo wasn't as good as the past two McMahon ones we've had.
Good match, what you'd expect out of these two. I'm surprised their weren't some more big high-flying moves from either man. Mysterio didn't get a lot of offence in which doesn't work well in making him a credible champion, but at least now he has a credible challenger.
I literally burst out laughing when I heard coach say
"Don’t call them a gang Jimbo, it’s a group"
Another Mr. McMahon promo makes me a very happy camper. MNM getting a title shot is great, and McMahon seems to be back to his old pimpin' ways with Melina, lol. You really write great promos with Vince. The Santino angle is interesting, he had some funny stuff to say but I'm wondering where this contract storyline will lead.
HBK promo's are always fun. Shawn was semi in-character, but sometimes it felt like he was just generic. Interesting to see he's also in the MiTB match, he should produce some great action. Umaga is in the match? AWESOME. It's nice to have a big man in there, plus Umaga owns all. You also do very well wriing Estrada, great in character promo. I'm glad you made Umaga look strong, the MiTB match is shaping up very nicely.
Another short but sweet McMahon promo, I'm genuinely appreciating him tonight. This gauntlet just keeps getting better.
Triple H appeared pretty dry here, generic and rather uninspired. Angle was spot on though, always intense and always after the gold. He's in the MiTB match too? This is going to be HUGE, probably looking forward too it even more than Christian/Triple H.
Regal got eliminated . Oh well. The opening stages are what I expected, but I love the idea of using Gangrel just for one night only. Easy pickings for the champion. The way you used Henry is good, he comes off looking strong as does Christian, and it adds an extra bit of struggle for the champion as he fights against even more odds. @ 'X-Pac Sucks' chant, takes me back. @ Santino as well. Two easy pins for the champion. You did a good job here by both making the champion look strong throughout, and giving Tomko a big rub by getting the pinfall.
Awesome idea ot have Trips sitting over christian. Hunter was back in character here, much better than he was arlier on. Hell in a Cell? I think it's a bit early to be pulling out a match like that, even if they have history. Nonetheless, this is right back up there with the MiTB match.
Cean/Christian was intriguing. Cena was in character and rather comelling, I wonder what will come of this makeshift alliance.
Squash + same thing he always says. Just a way to get Kennedy some ringtime ahead of MiTB, nothing much here at all.
You're really saturating this show with Mr. McMahon, it is McMahon appreciation night after all, but it seems to be getting too much, even for me. That being said, this was one of my favourite Vince promos from tonight, adding some more hype to the Main Event.
Ugh, you tried your best, but Hardy's blandness and lack of character shone through here. He just leaves me with a bad taste in my mouth. Angle gave this promo some much need character, staying in character and salvaging the promo.
MiTB is set to be so epic. Hardy, Angle, Kennedy, Umaga, HBK and Regal, drooool. Should be an amazing match. But back to tonight. Average back-and-forth match, I couldn't really get into though. Probably my least favourite match tonight.
Punk/Helsm are a good combination for a tag team. CM was on top of his game as far as mic work goes, Helms was a little lacklustre in comparison but all in all, probably the best promo of the night, unless I count all the little vince promo's as one long monologue.
Awesome match, loved every second. The tomfoolery of Nick Patrick was great, especially when he kept counting after Punk got the shoulder up. It was a great finish too with the McMahons finally getting what was coming to them, setting up a great Raw next week. Linda was typical robotic like you said, but you did your best and set up a huge match for Backlash.
All-up, this is probably my least-favourite of the three shows I've read so far. Some matches were uninspired, while McMahon too big a focus. I know it's a huge storyline, but it felt like overexposure. MOTN was the Main Event, Worst Match was the squash by default, although Hardy/Angle left a lot to be desired. The best promo was Straight Edge tied with the McMahon sporadic appearances, whilst the worst was Matt Hardy. It may not have eben the best show, but you set up a lot of matches for Backlash and some big things heading into next week.
Being The Booker
Re: Being The Booker
. Oh well. The opening stages are what I expected, but I love the idea of using Gangrel just for one night only. Easy pickings for the champion. The way you used Henry is good, he comes off looking strong as does Christian, and it adds an extra bit of struggle for the champion as he fights against even more odds. 
