Monday Night RAW
July 2, 2007
American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas
*Wanna Be Loved*
*PYRO*
*PYRO*
*PYRO*
***No Chance***
Right away, the “New Era” of the WWE kicks off with their esteemed Owner, CEO, and Chairman, Vince McMahon, strutting down the ring. Despite the big shakeups that have occurred over the past week, Vince is still walking with that patented swagger. Vince, all docked out in a nice suit, enters the ring with a microphone in hand, preparing to address the crowd.
Vince McMahon: Ladies and gentlemen of the great city of Dallas, Texas, welcome to Monday … NIGHT … RAW!!!
Cheap pops. Vince knows he's gotta get the crowd on his side a little after the news.
Vince McMahon: I know it's been a, well... It's been an eventful few days. I don't need to get into the details and waste your time, but, I thought I should address you great fans for sticking by us through these times. The WWE isn't going anywhere anytime soon, I can guarantee that!
Some positive pops yet again, though these are less of the cheap variety.
Vince McMahon: I know that there's been a lot of questions being asked about all sorts of topics, but let me just assure you that, with time, all will be answered.
Vince pauses, clears his throat, then continues on.
Vince McMahon: But you didn't all pay you money to see me, did ya?
Some more pops with this crowd ready to get the show on the road.
Vince McMahon: That's what I thought! So, let's get this sho–
***Metalingus***
Well of course we weren't going to get through Vince speaking without any interruptions. The music of “The Rated-R Superstar” and current World Heavyweight Champion Edge blares through the speakers, and the champ seems as squirrely as ever. In his street clothes, Edge swiftly makes his way down the entrance ramp and meets his boss inside of the ring. He's clearly got a few things to say.
Edge: Vince, you're damn right we have some questions for you! Where do I begin? Oh, I know, let's start with the fact that we have two world champions on the same show! Yeah, let's start with that.
Edge is on a roll, pacing back and forth as he talks to Vince, but Vince cuts him off before he can continue.
Vince McMahon: What seems to be the problem, Edge?
Edge's eyes bug out, as he's not sure if he heard the question right.
Edge: What's the problem? What's the problem? I'll tell you what the problem is, Vince: You can't have two world champions! They don't give out two Super Bowls a year, although this crowd probably forgot what a Super Bowl even was with how well the Cowboys have been recently.
Edge pauses for a quick second to take in the cheap heat on the Dallas crowd before continuing.
Edge: Vince, you're a smart guy. You and I both know that that.. that phony John Cena, he doesn't deserve to be called a “champion”. He's not a superstar like I am. He doesn't appeal to the masses like I do. He can sell all the merchandise he wants, but you and I both know that if you want a real World Champion to represent this company, you'll strip him of his championship immediately, raise my hand, and declare me the World Heavyweight Champion of this entire damn company!
Edge again pauses for some audible boos and a small “Cena” chant. He starts running his hands through his hair, waiting for a response from Vince. McMahon's mouth opens, but words don't come out at the start, which raises Edge's anxiety.
Edge: What are you waiting for? C'mon Vince, you know better than to think Cena's anything more than a chump. Let's make this quick and painless. Make it official, right now!
Edge pauses once more as Vince finally seems able to structure a sentence together.
Vince McMahon: Well, Edge, I ha–
***The Time Is Now***
You knew we weren't gonna get through this segment without current WWE Champion John Cena, right? Cena comes out to a slightly positive reaction, and looks a bit rejuvenated after a week off. Cena gives the crowd some high fives as he makes his way towards the ring, not ready to concede his title just yet.
Edge: What the hell do you want, Cena? This has nothing to do with you! Get out of here now!
Edge's nostrils are flaring as Cena let's out a chuckle. Edge doesn't seem to be in the joking matter, but Cena collects himself before beginning.
John Cena: Nah nah, I do think this deals with me just a little bit Edge. Y'see, while I don't like you, I'm not gonna be coming out here demanding you drop your title right now. You want to know why I'm not gonna be doing that?
Cena pauses to let Edge get his answer in.
Edge: Because you're trying to pander to these morons?
Some more heat for the World Heavyweight Champion before Cena continues.
John Cena: No, because unlike you, I'm not some coward that is trying to talk my way out of this situation.
Cena knows he struck a nerve with Edge, who clearly does not appreciate the coward remark.
Edge: WHAT did you just call me?
Edge's facial expression has turned dead eyed onto Cena. Even though he's a dirty wrestler, nobody likes to be called that.
John Cena: You heard me; you're a COWARD, Edge. While I'm out here taking on four other guys to defend my title, you just try to slip by by taking the easy way out.
Edge is really, pardon the pun, on edge right now. He cuts off Cena before he can continue.
Edge: You listen here, you jackass, I'm no coward!
Cena interjects, knowing exactly what he is doing.
John Cena: Oh really?
Edge is basically fuming at this point.
Edge: YOU'RE DAMN RIGHT CENA!
Edge is pacing back and forth across the ring, but Cena isn't done making his point.
John Cena: You know what a coward does, Edge? They try to win title matches by count out, skate by the rules just enough where they can hold onto these.
Cena motions to both his and Edge's title belts. Edge looks down at his World Heavyweight Championship belt as Cena goes on.
John Cena: A coward is someone that tries to back down from a challenge and tucks their tail between their legs when the going gets tough.
Cena takes a few steps closer to Edge to where they are only about an arms length away.
John Cena: A coward whines to the guy in charge to try to make everything right for him instead of taking what he thinks is his.
Cena takes another step forward, and him and Edge are now nearly butting heads.
John Cena: I know a coward when I see one, Edge, and you're the biggest damn coward in this entire company!
Cena stops as the two have their foreheads pushed together. Edge is taking big deep breaths when … EDGE PUNCHES CENA ON THE SIDE OF THE HEAD!
Cena takes a step back, but then POUNCES ON EDGE, TAKING THEM BOTH TO THE GROUND! The two heavyweight champions are rolling around inside of the ring, with nobody really having the upper advantage. They don't go long before Vince breaks it up, though.
Vince McMahon: STAHP IT! BOTH OF YOU STAHP IT RIGHT NOW!
McMahon pulls Cena off of Edge and pushes him into the opposite corner. He stands between them before continuing.
Vince McMahon: DAMN IT YOU TWO! How do you think I look when my two World Champions are acting like wild animals on national television? GROW UP, the both of you!
Vince is clearly agitated now, as Cena and Edge look like two kids that are getting yelled at by the principal.
Vince McMahon: Now LISTEN: I knew this was gonna happen eventually. You both have too big of egos to try to coexist in peace. I knew this was gonna happen, but DAMN IT even I couldn't expect it in the first ten minutes of the show!
He pauses and takes a hard look at both of them, with neither one trying to make eye contact with their boss.
Vince McMahon: If you guys can't figure out your differences on your own, I'll figure them out for you!
Edge tries to interject, which probably isn't the right choice right now.
Edge: (Pointing at Cena) Well HE started it!
Vince turns a hard stare at Edge, about to burst out of his suit.
Vince McMahon: I DON'T CARE who started it you sonuvabitch!
Edge quiets down, Vince wipes off his suit, collects himself, and continues.
Vince McMahon: So, here's what were gonna do. Three weeks from now is the King of the Ring. And what better way to find out who the “King” of the WWE is than with a match between you two?
The crowd pops at the announcement, as these two always know how to put on a show when they're facing off.
Vince McMahon: You both wanna be the top gun here? Fine. But you're gonna have to put your money where your mouth is. Cena, at the King of the Ring, you're gonna put YOUR WWE Championship on the line.
The crowd pops and Edge cracks a smile, knowing that he doesn't have to put his title up for grabs.
Vince McMahon: And Edge, at King of the Ring, you're gonna have to put YOUR World Heavyweight Championship on the line.
There's an even bigger pop at that announcement, as Edge holds onto his title just a little tighter.
Vince McMahon: That's right, everyone! At King of the Ring, it will be
World Heavyweight Champion Edge versus WWE Champion John Cena in a Title Unification Match!
Huge pops from the crowd, as Vince swaggers around knowing he can whip his power around any time he wants.
Vince McMahon: You two got that?
(Both men nod at their boss) GOOD. Now get the HELL out of my ring, these fans paid good money to see a show, not to see you two sit in this ring and do nothing!
Cena leaves the ring first, and as he and Edge begin to walk off, Vince has one more quick announcement.
Vince McMahon: Oh, and both of you get your gear on. You two are gonna team up in a tag-team match against an opponent of my choosing later tonight, so you better get your act together. Now SCRAM!
Cena and Edge share a look at each other as if to say “oh great, I have to work with THIS guy?”. Vince is jolly as he struts around the ring as RAW goes to it's first commercial break of the evening.
***COMMERCIAL***
***Live for the Moment***
RAW returns with it's first match of the night, and it's announced as a King of the Ring first round match. There's a nice added touch with the crown being shown at ringside on a pillow by JR, King, and JBL. Coming out first, “The Man Who Will Not Die” Matt Hardy. Matt, despite teaming with his brother Jeff in his last appearance 8 days ago, wants to establish himself as a singles star. The announcing crew goes over some notable names that have won the KOTR, including Bret Hart, Steve Austin, and Triple H. He enters the ring and begins to prepare for his opponent.
***Paparazzi***
His opponent, the final ECW Champion and budding singles star himself, Johnny Nitro. Along with him is his girlfriend, Melina, who is fawning over Nitro's expensive fur coat. The announcers remark that, while Nitro is a supremely gifted athlete, he has to keep his focus if he wants to become a star in this company. Nitro makes his way to the ring and our first match of both RAW and of the King of the Ring tournament has begun.
Match One
King of the Ring First Round Match
Matt Hardy vs. Johnny Nitro
OOC: I will do a brief recap of most matches on TV shows. This is for a few reasons, with the main one being time concerns. I also find it the most tedious part of BTBs and, especially if it's just a normal singles match on RAW, probably not worth walls of text. I don't want to burn myself out figuring out what move to use on a TV match that most will forget about in three minutes, so bear with me. If it's worth writing about (i.e. a title match) I'll go into more detail, but otherwise I'll do a quick recap with some details on the finish. Back to the show
After an eventful opener to get the crowd going, we join in at about the eight minute mark. Both men have had control of the match at some point, but currently it's Hardy who appears to have the upper hand. Hardy takes Nitro down with a Side Effect in the middle of the ring and is getting the crowd going. Matt climbs to the second turnbuckle and flashes his V1 hand signal, which has the crowd going. Matt jumps from the turnbuckle, attempting a diving elbow drop and... NITRO ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY!
With Hardy's elbow and ribs in pain, Nitro sees an opening to regain some energy and momentum in the match. Nitro beats Hardy to his feet and lifts Matt up as well. Johnny delivers a kick to the midsection before he takes Hardy down to the ground near one of the turnbuckles with a side Russian legsweep! Hardy is in trouble, and Nitro knows it. Nitro climbs up to the top rope, points at his girlfriend who is outside of the ring and winks at her, and then leaps from the top rope and... CONNECTS WITH A SPLIT-LEGGED CORKSCREW MOONSAULT! Nitro hooks the leg after connecting...
ONE...
…
TWO...
…
…
THREE!
Winner and advancing to the Quarter-Finals of the King of the Ring: Johnny Nitro via Pinfall (8:58)
Nitro is victorious in his return to RAW, and Melina joins him in the ring to celebrate. They share a kiss, then he turns over near the announcers table and takes a hard look at the crown that he hopes is his in a few weeks. The two continue to celebrate as we are taken backstage with Kelly Kelly, who's ready to interview the United States Champion, M.V.P
***
Kelly Kelly: Thanks JR, and I'm here with the current United States Champion, MVP. MVP, you requested this interview, do you want to tell the public why?
MVP, who is dressed in a fancy suit, has a large chain around his neck and watch on his wrist, removes his Oakley sunglasses, and takes a deep breath before beginning.
MVP: You're damn right I do, Kelly. I know you're supposed to ask the questions, but I got one for you.
Kelly Kelly is a bit startled by MVP's request, but she plays along.
Kelly Kelly: And what would that be?
MVP licks his lips and takes a deep breath before asking
MVP: How in the HELL is it that the current United States Champion of the world and the Franchise Playa of the WWE isn't in the King of the Ring tournament?
Kelly ponders for a moment or two, but before she can answer MVP cuts her off.
MVP: Dat's right, it doesn't make any damn sense to you neither, now does it? You got the WWE's fastest rising superstar right here waiting to get his hands on a World Title shot, and somehow I get SWEPT under the rug!? Are you serious?!
Kelly realizes she's not going to ask anymore questions.
MVP: I don't know what genius made up this bracket, but whoever did is a few cards from a full deck, knaw 'm sayin?
Kelly doesn't know whether to nod or just continue to sit there, but MVP isn't exactly paying attention to her right now.
MVP: I mean, CM Punk is in this tournament and I'm not? Seriously? How many titles has that guy won here? I've been the US Champion for 42 days now. What has Punk done with his life aside from prove that he'd be boring to party with?
MVP pauses as if he's going to allow Kelly to answer, but before she does he continues on.
MVP: Oh, and he's not the only bum that shouldn't be in this tournament instead of me. Hey Nature Boy, you better put some tennis balls on your walker, we wouldn't wanna see your old ass fall on your way to the ring! Hahaha!
MVP bellows out a big laugh, very proud of that not very original burn on Flair.
MVP: And Matt Hardy? That guy sucks so much he was already eliminated before I could even MAKE this interview! HA-HA!
MVP doubles over, continuing to laugh at his uncreative shots at his colleagues.
MVP: But for real, y'see my point Kelly Kelly? This company is out here lettin' these dopes fight for a chance at a World Title, and I'm here not gettin' the proper respect I should be receiving.
MVP cracks his neck, takes a deep breath, and continues on.
MVP: The Franchise Playa may not be involved with the next pay-per-view, and everyone knows dat dat ain't right!
Some boos are heard in the background, as many fans aren't big on the United States Champion.
MVP: Don't 'chu worry everybody, M. V. P is gonna get to the bottom of dis and I'm gonna get what's mine. Bes' beleeve dat.
MVP lets go of the mic, puts his sunglasses back on, and walks off the set as RAW goes to another commercial break.
***COMMERCIAL***
***Virtual Voodoo***
RAW returns with it's second match of the night, this one featuring “The Samoan Bulldozer” Umaga. Umaga is accompanied by his manager, Armando Alejandro Estrada, who seems to be in his typical cheerful/cocky mood. The announcers remark what a dangerous wrestler Umaga is, and that anyone going against him is asking for a death wish. Before Umaga's opponent comes out, however, Estrada grabs a microphone and addresses the crowd.
Armando Alejandro Estrada: Ladies annn' 'hentlemen... ha ha... I... am Armando... Alejandro... Estrada! An' dis, dis is de Samoooooan Bullllldoozer... UUUMAAAGGGAAA!
AAE let's out a light laugh as the heat flows in quickly.
Armando Alejandro Estrada: Eight days agoo... ju saw what happined when Santino Marella stepped inside wit' de Samooooan Bulllldoozer... ha ha!
Estrada bellows out a huge laugh as Umaga continues to stand next to him, heavily breathing and ready to kill something.
Armando Alejandro Estrada: Well today … today Umaga is issuin' dis rematch clause he gets to win back his Intercontinental Champ'yonship.
Umaga let's out a huge scream, which gets Armando to start clapping for his client.
Armando Alejandro Estrada: Ju' see... Umaga coulda won dat match in tirty secons at Vengeance if he waned ju... but dat wouln't have been fun for anyone.
Umaga has a huge grin on his face and is nodding in agreement with Estrada, who really knows how to build up his guy.
Armando Alejandro Estrada: Unfortunately … unfortunately de referee did not see de fun in Umaga destroyin' Santino like a rag doll an disqualified … AHEM …
unjustly disqualified Umaga before he could finnish his match.
Estrada stops and slaps Umaga on the shoulder, as if to say “I got your back”.
Armando Alejandro Estrada: So Santino … Santino get jurr ass out dere now so Umaga can finnish what de started.. ha HA!
Umaga is seen getting himself loose for a match that seems to be almost imminent.
Armando Alejandro Estrada: Because dis time … dis time, Santino, Umaga isn't gonna take it EASY on ju! Ha ha!
***La Vittoria è Mia***
Of course, the music of “The Milan Miracle” and current Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella hits, and there's an audible amount of cheers for the underdog. Santino looks a bit petrified when he first walks out, as he remembers the damage Umaga did to him the last time they met inside of the ring. But he sucks it up and begins to sprint down the ring, ready to fight. The announcers love his spirit, but JBL remarks that he's gonna need more than that if he wants to win tonight. This match is indeed for the Intercontinental Championship, JR remarks, and they hope to see a cleaner fight than the last time. The bell then rings and the second match of the night is underway.
Match Two
Singles Match for the Intercontinental Championship
Santino Marella (c) vs. Umaga
The match is underway and... well, it doesn't last much longer than the opening bell. Umaga begins the assault immediately with some right hands before he whips him off the ropes and sends him down with a Samoan Drop! Umaga is clearly in control and is barely breaking a sweat. The Samoan Bulldozer picks Santino back up by his feet and Irish Whips him hard into one of the corner turnbuckles, which sends Santino down to a seated position. Umaga, knowing he can do whatever he wants, runs to the opposite corner, howls out a huge yell, and charges at Santino... CONNECTING WITH A SAMOAN WRECKING BALL!
Armando doesn't want to risk his client getting disqualified again, so he yells to get Umaga's attention and slashes a finger across his throat, telling him to end the match now. Umaga nods and grabs Santino by his head. He drags Santino into the middle of the ring and again belts out a boisterous yell before STRIKING WITH A SAMOAN SPIKE! Yikes, this match is not pretty. Umaga lays for the cover to put Santino out of his misery...
ONE...
…
TWO...
…
THREE!
Winner and NEW Intercontinental Champion: Umaga via Pinfall (1:13)
That was not a particularly fun match to watch, but nevertheless there is a new champion crowned! Estrada makes a beeline to Umaga to hand him his newly won Intercontinental Championship, but stops before relinquishing it. He points at the still downed Marella and nods his head, which can't mean anything good for Marella. A moment later Umaga picks up Marella and drops him with ANOTHER SAMOAN DROP!
Santino is clearly out of it and the crowd doesn't appreciate the additional assault Umaga wants to give out. Umaga slides out of the ring and pulls a groggy Santino out with him. Umaga gets Santino into a standing position before he WHIPS SANTINO INTO THE STEEL STEPS! Santino hits the steps hard and actually flips over them, which tells you how much force Umaga put behind the toss.
The referee tries to stop any more of a beatdown from occurring, but Umaga tosses him aside and wants to do more damage to Santino, knowing that he can't lose the title for it now. Umaga walks over to Marella and props him up against the steel steps, and I don't think the crowd is going to like what happens next to their favorite underdog. Umaga takes a few steps back, shrieks another loud yell, charges and SMASHES SANTINO'S FACE INTO THE STEPS WITH A SAMOAN WRECKING BALL!
Santino is busted open now and appears to be unconscious. Umaga wants to continue, but Estrada pulls the reigns in on him, knowing he's sent enough of a message to the roster. Estrada hands Umaga his newly won Intercontinental belt and they make their way to the back to a parade of boos.
As for Santino, the ref motions for some paramedics and a stretcher, as Santino is in no position to move. The medics work on putting Santino onto a stretcher as RAW goes to another commercial break.
***COMMERCIAL***
***Cool***
RAW returns from commercial break with JR updating everyone on Santino's condition after the beatdown he suffered from the hands of Umaga. JR says he is going to be taken to the nearby hospital and that they will give additional updates when they can.
While JR is informing the viewers, the music of Carlito is playing, as Justin Roberts announces that this is another King of the Ring first round match. Carlito, who receives some mild heat from the crowd as he makes his way down, is coming out in his traditional blue trunks with an apple in hand. Like the participants in the previous KOTR match earlier in the night, the announcers comment about how the opportunity is there for Carlito to win the whole thing and take the next step towards WWE stardom. He tries to get loose as he awaits for his opponent to come out.
***Loaded***
There's the music of “The Charismatic Enigma”, one Jeff Hardy. Hardy comes out to a pretty loud pop, which is highlighting how over he is. Hardy does his usual geriatrics before he sprints down to the ring, ready for the match to begin. JR remarks how Jeff will try to have better luck than his brother Matt did earlier in the night in his KOTR qualifier and that we should be in for a treat with these two in the ring.
Match Three
King of the Ring First Round Match
Carlito vs. Jeff Hardy
The match, as you may expect, is a very back and forth affair. Hardy began the match ahead with his flurry of aerial attacks, even gaining a near-fall after connecting with a Whisper in the Wind to the face of the WWE's Caribbean Superstar. Carlito was then able to gain momentum after a poke to the eyes of Hardy, and we jump in to about the six and a half minute mark with Carlito looking to end the match with a Backstabber.
A groggy Hardy is struggling to make it to a vertical position, as Carlito is looking to end it with his famous finisher. Hardy uses the ring ropes to eventually get to a standing position and Carlito walks over to Jeff's back and wraps his hands around Hardy's shoulders. Carlito attempts to perform the backstabber near the ropes and... FAILS TO CONNECT! Carlito's over-aggressiveness backfires as Hardy smartly holds onto the ropes, causing Carlito to fall flat on his back! Hardy gives Carlito no time to recover, as he turns around, grabs Carlito's legs and flips over into a covering position...
ONE...
…
TWO...
…
…
TH– NO!
Carlito just gets his shoulder up at two and a half! Jeff is a little discouraged, but keeps his focus on the task at hand. He waits for Carlito to make it to his feet, and when he does, Hardy puts him in a front facelock and is setting him up for the Twist of Fate! Hardy belts out a yell before attempting the move and... CONNECTS! The crowd is hot for Hardy, and you can tell he's being energized by them. With Carlito down and out on the mat, Hardy climbs the top turnbuckle, which can only mean one thing: a Swanton Bomb. Hardy again yells out some incoherent noises to get the crowd on their feet before he... CONNECTS WITH THE SWANTON! HARDY FOLLOWS WITH A COVER...
ONE...
…
TWO...
…
…
THREE!
Winner and advancing to the Quarter-Finals of the King of the Ring: Jeff Hardy via Pinfall (7:16)
The Charismatic Enigma's music hits as he gets to his feet to celebrate his victory. Lawler talks about the toughness Hardy brought in the match tonight to not lose his cool after some nearfalls, and if he keeps it up with performances like that he may be able to win the whole thing. Hardy is seen walking back up the entrance ramp and celebrating with his fans as RAW goes to another commercial break.
***Commercial***
RAW shifts gears and we are now backstage, with multiple personalities in front of Vince McMahon's door arguing with each other. There's Batista, Randy Orton, Bobby Lashley, and King Booker, all of them wanting to speak to Vince. Vince, along with his assistant Jonathan Coachman, comes outside with a shocked expression on his face.
Vince McMahon: Alright … ALRIGHT … SHUT THE HELL UP, ALL OF YOU!
The bickering comes to a screeching halt, as the superstars act like they're getting yelled at by the principal.
Vince McMahon: What's the meaning of this? What do you all want?
The bickering then resumes, which causes Vince to grind his teeth before speaking up again.
Vince McMahon: ONE AT A TIME DAMN IT!
There's a slight pause from all of the men before King Booker speaks up.
King Booker: Yo' Vince 'dis is whack, man. 'Ow you givin' up 'dese title shots like candy, man, an' I 'aven't 'ad a singles shot in weeks?
Vince wants to speak up but now it's Batista's turn to talk.
Batista: I didn't even get pinned at Vengeance, yet you're letting that worm Edge avoid a rematch with me?
Vince again tries to speak, but now Orton has to get his two cents in.
Randy Orton: Vince, how many more legends am I going to have to knock out for you to realize I need more of a challenge?
Well you know Lashley has to say something now, too.
Bobby Lashley: What kind of show are you running here, Vince?
Lashley's comment seems to set Vince off, as he's had enough of all of their bitching.
Vince McMahon: Alright that's enough! You all want a damn title shot?
All four seem to nod in agreement.
Vince McMahon: You all wanna prove that you're the big dog here?
Again, all four seem to like what Vince is saying to them.
Vince McMahon: Well, that seems easy enough.
Batista starts to clap really loudly as the other three are getting riled up as well.
Vince McMahon: The King of the Ring tournament has just begun, and I'm going to throw ALL of you in it!
There are some pops in the background from the crowd, although the players don't seem as excited for the opportunity.
King Booker: 'Ey man I've already taken care of that befo'!
The others want to chime in as well, but Vince cuts them off before they can try.
Vince McMahon: (Vince cracks a smile) Did I forget to mention that the winner gets a title shot?
All four superstars eyes perk up after that comment.
Vince McMahon: Oh, that's right! So you guys want a title shot? Fine. Prove it. Go win King of the Ring.
Vince has a shit eating grin on his face now, as he knows those guys are competitors and will help make his tournament a success.
Vince McMahon: In fact, one of you is wrestling in their first round match tonight, so you all better get going.
The four men oblige and begin to walk out of the door. They walk out of the shot and the camera focuses on Vince, who has a satisfied look on his face.
Vince McMahon: Hey you two, hold up! Come here, I have a different assignment for you tonight.
Vince is yelling to two guys who are off camera, but before we can see them RAW goes back to the arena.
***
***Regality***
A third King of the Ring First Round match is announced, and coming out first is William Regal. Unlike most participants in King of the Ring tournaments, JR remarks that this may be one of the few chances Regal has left to gain a world title shot. Regal comes out in his traditional fancy British robe and has a small amount of heat from the fans. As he enters the ring, the crew remarks that while he isn't the biggest or the fastest, he is one of the smartest wrestlers in all of the WWE.
***This Fire Burns***
His competitor is the increasingly popular CM Punk, but Punk doesn't come out as his entrance music is being played. We wait a few moments before the titantron goes to the back, where we see PUNK IN A POOL OF HIS OWN BLOOD! There is not a soul around him, so we have no clue who was responsible for the attack. Eventually, a WWE official finds him and tries to help him regain consciousness, but it is a struggle. Inside of the ring, William Regal demands the match to be started, and if Punk can't make it out in time he lose via count-out. The ref seems hesitant to do so at first, but after getting a buzz in his ear he orders the bell to be rung.
Match Four
King of the Ring First Round Match
William Regal vs. CM Punk
As you might expect, Punk was never able to make it out to the ring. Unfortunately for everyone, aside from Regal, a chance for an exciting match was thrown to the wayside. The referee works on the ten count, and eventually reaches ten without a sight from Punk at all.
Winner and advancing to the Quarter-Finals of the King of the Ring: William Regal via Count-out (0:10)
The crowd boos Regal as he gets his hand raised by the referee, but he shows no shame in picking up the win. Meanwhile, the announcing crew continues to express concern for the health of Punk and hope that whoever is responsible for it gets their comeuppance soon enough. RAW then goes to another commercial break.
***COMMERCIAL***
RAW returns and we see Edge in the dressing room, getting prepared for his tag-team match in tonight's main event. Edge is putting on his arm pads as someone enters the room.
Edge: What are YOU doing in here?
Edge is, of course, talking to his tag-team partner for the night – John Cena, who enters in the shot now.
John Cena: I'm gonna make this short and sweet for you, Edge. I know we're going to be enemies at King of the Ring in a few weeks, but tonight we're teammates. I don't know about you, but I don't like to lose.
Edge seems a bit incredulous that Cena's implying that he may like to lose.
Edge: Oh I sure as hell don't like to lose, Cena. You'll see that at King of the Ring.
The WWE Champion is a bit annoyed at Edge's insistence to interrupt him, but keeps on going.
John Cena: Edge, save it, alright. We'll have more than enough time to talk about how
(Cena begins talking in a patronizing tone)“you're gonna kick my ass” next week.
Edge isn't a fan of patronizing, I guess.
Edge: Cena I'm not in the mood for one of your little pep talks. Say what you have to say and get out of the Champs locker room.
Cena takes a quick look at the WWE Championship belt on his shoulder, smirks, then gets on with it.
John Cena: As I was saying … tonight, we're teammates. I don't want to lose, and I'm guessing you don't want to either. So how about, for the rest of the night, we act like teammates. No cheap shots. No leaving the other guy out to dry. You wanna kick my ass? Save it for King of the Ring. Agreed?
Cena offers a hand shake, looking for a truce for the rest of the night at least. Edge takes a second to ponder Cena's offer before answering.
Edge: Fine... that's fair.
(Edge shakes Cena's hand) Now leave.
Cena holds onto the handshake for a moment longer before stepping out. As he closes the door, we see Edge let out a small smirk and muffle something under his breath before getting back to warming up for his match.
***
***Masterpiece***
A fourth and final King of the Ring First Round match of the night is announced, and the first wrestler to come out is “The Masterpiece” Chris Masters. Masters, who's Master Lock has been known to make wrestlers pass out, seems awfully confident as he makes his way down. He shuns the fans offers for high fives and even yells something that the microphones can't catch at one of them as he walks down. He enters the ring and poses for a few seconds as he awaits for his opponent to come out.
***I Walk Alone***
Well, that's probably not the first guy that Masters wanted to face in the King of the Ring tournament. That is the music of “The Animal” Batista, of course, and he seems pumped to be wrestling tonight. Yes, it's not for a world title shot, but he knows what the stakes are for the King of the Ring. Batista does his normal pyro theatrics midway down the entrance ramp, and once he enters the ring he looks very focused. The two go to their corners and get ready for the bell to ring.
Match Five
King of the Ring First Round Match
Chris Masters vs. Batista
The match, while not a squash, is very much in Batista's control for the most part. Batista nearly finished the match off after a diving clothesline, but Masters kicked out at two and a half. Masters was able to finally turn the advantage his way when he pulled Batista face first into one of the turnbuckles. We jump in at the five minute mark from that spot.
Batista is trying to shake off the shot to the face, as Masters is standing behind him with his hands locked in the air, trying to signal for the Master Lock. Batista slowly gets to his feet, and when he does Masters is able to wrap in a half nelson very quickly. Batista realizes what's happening and uses his massive strength to try to prevent Masters from locking both hands together. Masters continues to attempt the full nelson, knowing that if he does he may be able to score the upset. Masters soon gets within six inches of his hands clasping when... BATISTA DELIVERS AN ELBOW TO THE MIDSECTION! Masters releases hold of the half nelson as he doubles over, and Batista sees an opening. He grabs Masters by the head and shoves it in between his legs. Batista lifts Masters up and... CONNECTS WITH THE BATISTA BOMB! Batista hooks the outside leg of Masters for the cover...
ONE...
…
TWO...
…
…
THREE!
Winner and advancing to the Quarter-Finals of the King of the Ring: Batista via Pinfall (5:49)
The crowd gives the Animal a rousing ovation as he completes the first step to becoming the next King of the Ring. The commentary crew asks if he is the betting favorite to win the whole thing, and not one of them can make a case against him. Batista gets his hand raised by the referee and shares some high fives with the crowd as the announcers continue to talk him and the upcoming main event up as RAW goes to it's final commercial break of the evening.
***COMMERCIAL***
***KING OF THE RING PROMO***
When RAW returns, we are not taken to the arena, but to a poorly lit room. It's five guys seated around a table playing a game of cards, it looks like a game of poker. There is some cigarette smoke in the air, some beers on the table, and one guy appears to be using a cooler as a chair. As the camera focuses in better, we discover that the poker players are none other than the ECW Originals – Tommy Dreamer, Sabu, The Sandman, Balls Mahoney, and Stevie Richards. Richards is seen throwing his chips into the middle of the table as we jump into their conversation.
Stevie Richards: Well I'm ALL IN boys!
Mahoney, Sabu, and Sandman all quickly fold in the hand, not sure if Richards is bluffing or if he actually has a strong hand. Dreamer takes a puff of his cigar, looks at Richards, looks back at his cards, then looks at Richards again.
Tommy Dreamer: You're bluffin'. I call.
Tommy read Richards well, as he only had an ace-high while Dreamer had a two pair. Tommy grabs Richards stack of chips and begins counting them out one by one.
Tommy Dreamer: Heh heh, fellas, we should do this more often!
Mahoney lets out an audible groan and Sabu plays with his much smaller amount of chips when we hear a door open.
Balls Mahoney: Who is it?
The man walks through the door and comes on screen, and it's none other than former ECW Champion and announcer Tazz! The Originals are all glad to see him as they exchange hugs and pleasantries before they get to business.
Tommy Dreamer: So Tazz, what brings you to this neck of the woods? We thought you got too big for us and were spending all your free time with JBL and Jerry Lawler, right guys?
The Originals break out into a heap of laughter, as Tazz knows they're just busting his balls and giving him a hard time.
Tazz: Naw naw, I'm done with that announcin' gig fellas. Jus' didn' give me the same rush that bein' in the ring with you guys did.
Tazz seems very happy to see his old pals, but they're wondering what his angle is.
Stevie Richards: Alright Tazz, shoot us straight. We all know you can't wrestle anymore because of your neck, so what's going on?
Tazz clears his throat and wipes his brow before he continues.
Tazz: I know I can't wrestle anymore, fellas, but my doctors never said I couldn't be at ringside. So here's what I'm proposing: You guys let me join the gang, and I'll help you guys out.
Dreamer, who was nonchalantly paying attention to Tazz before that last sentence, takes the cigar out of his mouth and leans in to the table, wanting to hear more from Tazz.
Tommy Dreamer: Tazz, I love ya man, but how are you gonna be able to help us out if you can't step inside the ring with us?
All eyes have shifted onto Tazz again, as he's really going to have to sell himself if he wants in with the Originals.
Tazz: Well, uh, it's simple, really. We're all brotha's here, right?
The five men sitting all look at each other before sharing a nod.
Tazz: Well, some of us have the wrasslin' ability, some of us have the brawlin' ability, some... no ALL of us have the extreme ability. But y'know what you boys need?
The Originals again look at each other before one of them speaks up.
The Sandman: What's that?
Tazz let's out a big grin before he gives out the big reveal.
Tazz: A manager. A mouthpiece. Someone that can articulate what y'all are feelin'. Someone that can watch your back inside and out of the ring. Someone that can get you matches. Someone that can get you title shots. I can provide that to you.
Dreamer, the assumed leader of the group, seems to like what he hears, but also looks a bit hesitant.
Tommy Dreamer: You want in the group? You want to be our manager?
Tazz is nodding up and down with excitement, wanting to be back involved with wrestling.
Tommy Dreamer: What do you think, boys?
The other four share grunts and chirps of approval, and it looks like we have another member of the ECW Originals.
Tommy Dreamer: Alright Tazz, we'll give you a shot.
Tazz claps his hands and begins exchanging enthusiastic handshakes with his new stablemates, but Dreamer isn't done yet.
Tommy Dreamer: A
temporary shot. You think you belong with us, you have to prove it. Am I right, guys?
The four follow their leader again, and Tazz seems to understand.
Tazz: Oh don't you worry, boys, you won't regret this. I'll cya around, I got work to do.
Tazz exchanges a few final handshakes and goodbyes before he walks out of the room and the rest of the Originals resume their poker game.
***
***The Time Is Now***
RAW comes back out to the main arena as the tag-team main event is announced. Out first is the current reigning WWE Champion, the “Face of the WWE” John Cena. Cena runs around the edge of the entrance ramp to a mixed response from the crowd, pumped to be wrestling in tonight's main event. He exchanges high fives with the willing members of the audience before he slides into the ring and hoists up his WWE Championship. He then hands his title to the ref and begins to get in ring shape as he awaits the other three men.
***Metalingus***
That is the music of John's teammate for the night and current World Heavyweight Champion, the “Rated-R Superstar” Edge. Edge doesn't burst out with the same amount of energy as Cena, as he doesn't seem nearly as happy with teaming with his rival. As he makes his way into the ring, the announcing crew wonders if these two are going to be able to coexist long enough to win the match, or if they are going to just be at each others' throat throughout. Edge gives Cena a dirty look as he enters the ring, then climbs the top turnbuckle and shows off his World Heavyweight Championship. The two keep their distance as they await for their opponents to come out.
***White Man's Dead***
Their first opponent is none other than the still current reigning King of the Ring, King Booker along with his wife, Queen Sharmell. Booker makes his slow waltz down the aisle, with Sharmell yelling “All hail King BOOKAH” during his entire entrance. Booker enters the ring and does his traditional pinky-out pyrotechnics, as JBL talks up Booker as a man that should be more respected than he is and that Sharmell is the most beautiful queen out there. Booker removes his robe and stretches his legs out as he waits for his teammate to make his way out.
***Burn In My Light***
King Booker's teammate and final member of the match, the “Legend Killer” Randy Orton, comes out to a decidedly negative reaction. He strikes his pose at the top of the entrance ramp, with fireworks raining down on him. Orton has a stone cold expression on his face as he walks down, knowing what a win tonight would do for him as he tackles the King of the Ring tournament soon. Orton enters the ring and the two teams are separated to their corners, with Cena and Edge taking the top left side and their opponents taking the bottom right side. There is little disagreement between the two champions on who starts their match, as Edge offers his hands out to Cena, implying “if you want to start, get in there”. Cena obviously obliges, and it's Cena and Booker to start of the tag team main event.
Match Six
Tag-Team Match
John Cena and Edge vs. King Booker and Randy Orton
This match, as you may expect, is a very strong main event. Cena and Edge controlled the match early on, not having much of a hiccup in their connection. They even teamed up to connect on a double back body drop on Orton. The momentum was shifted when Orton reversed a Cena F-U attempt by sliding off his shoulders and landing a picture perfect dropkick. Orton was then able to tag Booker back in and the two continued to work on Cena for the next three or so minutes. We jump in at about the nine minute mark with Cena and Booker inside of the ring...
And Booker takes Cena down with a sidewalk slam! The WWE Champion is in bad shape right now, as Booker walks over to his teammates corner and tells Orton “I got 'dis”. Booker climbs the nearby top rope and yells it's over before attempting a Houston Hangover and... CENA ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY! Booker lands hard on his tailbone, and the two men are both down and trying to get to their respective corners. Edge and Orton, despite not having any connection with their partners, are into the match and begging to be tagged in. Booker is maybe a step closer to his teammate than Cena is to his, but both need to crawl another pace or two to make the tag. Booker inches closer, leaps and.. MAKES THE TAG!
Orton sprints in to try to catch Cena before he can make the tag. Cena realizes this, takes a chance and leaps towards his corner... AND TAGS EDGE IN! Both hot tags are made, and this crowd is on their feet! Edge charges and takes Orton down with a clothesline. Orton quickly gets up to his feet and charges Edge, but Edge sidesteps Orton and Orton CRASHES INTO BOOKER! Booker is knocked off the apron, and Orton is astonished at what has just transpired. Orton is slow to turn around, but unbeknownst to him, Edge is in position to hit with the Spear. Orton makes the rotation and Edge LANDS THE SPEAR! Edge hooks the leg of his former Rated-RKO partner...
ONE...
…
TWO...
…
…
TH– NO!!!
Booker, being the wise veteran that he is, grabbed Orton's foot and placed it on the rope, causing a rope break! Edge can't believe it and begins arguing with the referee, which bothers his teammate since they were literally seconds away from winning. While Edge is throwing his tantrum, Booker is able to slap the back of a downed Orton, signaling a tag back into the matchup. Edge didn't recognize this, and once he's done pouting he's met with a Spinning Wheel Kick! Cena realizes his partner is in trouble and begs for a tag back in, but Booker is having none of that. Booker bring Edge back up to a vertical position and Irish Whips him of the ropes, connecting with 110th Street Slam on the rebound! Booker thinks he has the match won and covers Edge in the middle of the ring...
ONE...
…
TWO...
…
…
TH– NO!!
And this time Cena breaks up the count with an axe handle to the back of Booker! Orton enters the ring and charges at Cena, trying to help his teammate out, but Cena is ready for him. As Orton charges Cena, the WWE Champion shows why he is that by taking two steps back and body drops Orton over the top rope! Orton lands hard on the padded covering as Cena makes his way back to his corner and tries to get tagged back into the match.
Booker tries to have none of that, though, as he takes Edge down with a sidewalk slam before getting in position for the Book End. Edge slowly gets to his feet and Booker is able to wrap his hand around Edge's shoulder, but Edge refuses to be taken down. Edge struggles at first before he delivers a few elbows to the side of Booker's head, forcing him to release his hold. Booker tries to retain the advantage by clotheslining Edge, but the World Heavyweight Champion shows his savvyness and ducks the attempt. Edge sees an opening and sprints towards his corner... TAGGING CENA IN!
Cena comes in hot, as he starts off with a clothesline to ground Booker. Booker quickly gets back up to his feet and whiffs on a big right hand, which Cena ducks, before Cena lifts him off the ground and hits Booker with a side belly-to-belly suplex! The crowd is picking up steam on Cena, who flashes his hand in the air, and you all know what that means: “You Can't See Me!” followed by Cena's usual theatrics and a CONNECTION WITH THE FIVE-KNUCKLE SHUFLE! Cena gets in position to hit Booker with the F-U as he waits, but ORTON COMES INTO THE RING WITH A CHAIR IN HIS HAND!
Clearly the “Legend Killer” was more than a little irked at the back body drop Cena gave him a few moments ago. But just before he can swing the chair and hit Cena with it, Edge comes to his rescue and SPEARS ORTON TO THE GROUND! Orton drops the chair to the ground as Edge helps save his teammate. Cena then regains his focus and delivers a kick to the midsection of a still groggy Booker, before the Champ hoists him onto his shoulders. Booker doesn't struggle very long, and Cena... HITS BOOKER WITH THE F-U! Cena immediately hooks the leg of Booker...
ONE...
…
TWO...
…
…
THREE!
Winners: John Cena and Edge via Pinfall (11:20)
The WWE Champion gets to his feet and has his arm raised in excitement. He looks around for his partner for a split second, but continues to celebrate with the hot crowd. Just as Cena starts to take his attention to celebrating his win, though, EDGE HITS CENA IN THE BACK WITH A STEEL CHAIR! It was the same chair Edge protected Cena from literally seconds ago, and now he's using it to his advantage! Cena immediately drops to the ground, and the World Heavyweight Champion is getting his fair share of boos from the crowd by peeing on the ending of what was a very solid main event.
Edge isn't done, though, and frankly doesn't give a damn what the fans want. Edge delivers some stomps onto the downed Cena with the chair still in hand. The timekeeper keeps ringing the bell to try to get Edge to stop his onslaught, but it's clear Edge is going to do what he wants right now. Edge drags Cena towards the middle of the ring and delivers a few more kicks to the body before sliding out of the ring. Edge walks over to the timekeepers table and grabs three items – his World Heavyweight Championship, Cena's WWE Championship, and another steel chair.
Edge slides back inside of the ring and tosses the two titles to the ground, as he has some evil intentions he still has to go through. He takes the chair that's already in his hand and places it under Cena's head, and this is not looking good for the WWE Champion. Edge has a maniacal grin on his face as he grabs ahold of the other chair inside of the ring. Edge lifts the chair above his head and yells “I'M THE ONLY CHAMPION HERE” then CONNECTS WITH A CON-CHAIR-TO TO CENA'S SKULL!!! Cena is now busted open and it's a mess inside of the ring!
The boos are raining on Edge, who is just bathing in it right now. He disposes of the chairs, as he no longer has a need for them. He then wraps his World Heavyweight Championship around his shoulder, grabs Cena's WWE Championship, and drops down to his knees and gets right in Cena's face. He's looking at Cena and points to his WWE Championship at the same time, shouting “THREE WEEKS! THREE WEEKS, CENA! THREE WEEKS AND THIS IS MINE!”
Edge holds onto Cena's title for a few seconds longer before getting back to his feet. He tosses Cena's title onto his chest and finally ends the beatdown, using the steps to walk out of the ring. Edge's music plays and he walks backwards up the entrance ramp, looking at the carnage he's given to Cena. Cena is inside being tended to as RAW fades to black
***End Show***
Quick Results:
Johnny Nitro def. Matt Hardy
Umaga def. Santino Marella (c) to become the NEW Intercontinental Champion
Jeff Hardy def. Carlito
William Regal def. CM Punk
Batista def. Chris Masters
John Cena and Edge def. King Booker and Randy Orton
Current Card for KING OF THE RING
Date: July 22, 2007
Location: HP Pavilion at San Jose, San Jose, California
Event Music: The Church of Hot Addiction by Cobra Starship
Champion vs. Champion; Title Unification Match
WWE Champion John Cena (c) vs. World Heavyweight Champion Edge (c)
King of the Ring Semi-Finals and Finals
Participants TBA