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2007 & Beyond: Recovery

349K views 2K replies 180 participants last post by  Hannah 18 
#1 · (Edited)
This will be my first attempt at btb. I will only be doing RAW and SmackDown!. Not ECW. I'm going to need a partner to do either RAW or SmackDown. I'll start with a Vengeace recap and then continue on from there.

RAW Roster
Armando Alejandro Estrada
Beth Phoenix
Candice Michelle
Carlito
Charlie Haas
Chris Masters
Edge
Eugene
Gene Snitsky
John Cena
Johnny
Johnny Nitro
Kane
Kenny
Lance Cade
Lita
Matt Striker
Maria
Melina
Mickie James
Mikey
Mitch
Nicky
Randy Orton
Ric Flair
Robby McAllister
Rob Conway
Rory McAllister
Rob Van Dam
Shawn Michaels
Shelton Benjamin
Torrie Wilson
Trevor Murdoch
Triple H
Trish Stratus
Umaga
Val Venis
Victoria
Viscera

SmackDown! Roster
Ashley
Batista
Big Show
Bobby Lashley
Booker T
Brian Kendrick
Chavo Guerrero
Chris Benoit
Daivari
Finlay
Funaki
Gregory Helms
Hardcore Holly
Jamie Noble
JBL
Jillian Hall
Ken Kennedy
Kurt Angle
Mark Henry
Matt Hardy
Michelle McCool
Paul Birchill
Paul London
Psichosis
Rey Mysterio
Scotty Too Hotty
Sharmell
Simon Dean
Super Crazy
Sylvan
Tatanka
The Great Khali
The Undertaker
Vito
William Regal

RAW Announcers
Play by Play: Jim Ross
Color Commentator: Jerry Lawler
Interviewer: Jonathan Coachman

RAW Champions
WWE Champion: Edge
Intercontinental Champion: Johnny Nitro
World Tag Team Champions: Spirit Squad
Women’s Champion: Mickie James

SD! Announcers
Play by Play: Michael Cole
Color Commentator: Tazz
Interviewer: Josh Matthews

SD! Champions
World Champion: Kurt Angle
United States Champion: Bobby Lashley
WWE Tag Team Champions: JBL & Ken Kennedy
Cruiserweight Champion: Gregory Helms
 
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#1,242 ·
Re: 2007 & Beyond - The Second Fucking Coming

Pretty quick turnaround from preview to show. Got bored. :sad:

Monday Night Raw - June 25th, 2007; Denver, Colorado



That’s Not Arrogance, It’s…

A video package plays, highlighting all which took place at last night’s Vengeance PPV - Mickie def. Maria to retain her year plus Women’s Title reign, while Victoria became the #1 contender by edging out Trish Stratus, Beth Phoenix, and Gail Kim; JBL defeated Carlito in an incredible Texas Bullrope Match to retain the IC Title; Cade & Murdoch def. AMW to become the new World Tag Team Champions; John Morrison def. Ken Doane; MVP def. Sabu, getting his first win on PPV; Umaga picked up the biggest win of his career, by defeating the legendary Cactus Jack in a hardcore match; and in the main event, Edge FINALLY regained the WWE Championship by def. RVD, HBK, Kurt Angle, and his most hated rival, the incumbent champion Randy Orton.

We then enter the arena, but before anything can be set up for tonight’s show …


***BURN IN MY LIGHT***

The crowd boos mercilessly as the FORMER WWE Champion Randy Orton steps out onto the Raw stage. Looking incredibly frustrated, The Legend Killer wears jeans, a closefitting black shirt and shades. Randy looks down at his waist, shakes his head, and then looks back up at the fans with a poignant scowl. With the RKO Army of Chris Masters and Joey Mercury behind him, both dressed in jeans and ‘RKO Army’ T’s, Orton continues on down to the ring, kicking off the first Raw in almost six months where he hasn’t been the WWE Champion.

Jim Ross: This is a sight that we have not seen in over five months. Randy Orton WITHOUT the WWE Championship. Orton put up a hell of a fight, and looked like he was on his way to retaining the title at one point, but in the end, it was Edge, The Rated R Superstar, who left Houston the new WWE Champion.

Jerry Lawler: He looks naked without the championship, J.R. And now we here from wwe.com that Randy doesn’t have a rematch clause? This is completely unfair to The Legend Killer. But he’s shown over the past few months that he’s got what it takes to reign on the mountain top. Does he have what it takes to get back there?

The One Man Dynasty steps into the ring, and calls for a microphone, and is soon handed one. His music dies down, and the crowd picks up as a ‘Rated R’ chant rings out around the arena. Orton simply holds his head down, attempting to gather himself, before he finally brings his head up and the mic with it.

Randy Orton: Y’know … you would think that after everything I’ve done for you people, you would show me a little more respect.

~ Big-time heat for The Legend Killer, who stares into the crowd.

Randy Orton: For the past six months, I’ve taken this brand, Monday Night Raw … I’ve taken this COMPANY on my back! For the past six months, I’ve reigned as the WWE Champion, and put on some of the best matches that any of you have ever seen!

~ Orton takes a deep breath before continuing.

Randy Orton: For the past six months, I have put my body on the line, because as the number one superstar in this company, it is something I had to do. For the past … six … months, I have been, quite simply, a One Man Dynasty.

~ The crowd boos as Orton strolls around the ring for a bit, while Masters and Mercury watch their leader intently.

Randy Orton: But last night … that all came to an end. Last night … the biggest travesty in the history of World Wrestling Entertainment occurred.

~ Light boos from the crowd.

Randy Orton:
After battling for twenty-five minutes, against four of the toughest and most talented superstars in this company -- after DOMINATING four of the best wrestlers in the world … after all of that, it only took one split second -- one - split - second for my entire world to come crashing down around me.

~ Orton takes his shades off.

Randy Orton:
The one thing that I’ve worked my ass off to get … the one thing I worked my ass off to keep … the most prestigious prize in this business … the WWE Championship … was ripped away from me in one … split … second.

~ The crowd pops, causing Orton to stare at them with fury.

Randy Orton: OH, YOU ALL LIKE THAT!? You like that Edge is now the WWE Champion!? HUH!?

~ Another loud pop.

Randy Orton:
Well, you shouldn’t be! You shouldn’t be happy, and neither should Edge. No, Edge didn’t win the WWE Championship because he was better. He didn’t win it because he was faster, he didn’t win it because he was stronger, or smarter, he won it … because he got lucky.

~ Crowd boos

Randy Orton: THAT’S IT!! That’s the only reason!! If you didn’t see it, order the replay! If you saw it and don’t remember what exactly happened, watch it again! I DOMINATED that match!

~ Orton fiercely glares at the crowd.

Randy Orton: I beat down Edge like I ALWAYS do!! I beat down RVD! I beat down Shawn Michaels! I beat down Kurt Angle! Four of the top superstars in this business were dominated by The Legend Killer for thirty minutes, and then - IN A SPLIT SECOND - Edge comes in, hits a couple of crappy Spears and steals my championship, steals my WWE Title, steals my glory, steals what’s MINE!!

~ More boos for TLK as Orton wipes his mouth, clearly riled up.

Randy Orton:
And believe me, that’s exactly what the WWE Championship is. It’s … MINE.

~ Crowd boos

Randy Orton: And I’ve proven that time and time again. At New Year’s Revolution, I went through five guys -- Stone Cold Steve Austin, JBL, Edge, Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker -- to win that belt. At the Royal Rumble, I pinned HBK dead center in the middle of this ring. At WrestleMania 23, I beat Michaels and Edge, and gave Edge his first pin fall loss at a WrestleMania. At Backlash, I beat Edge … again.

~ Quick shot of some young kid in the first row booing Orton and giving him the thumbs down.

Randy Orton: What does this all prove? It proves that Randy Orton is the man in this company, NOT EDGE!! It proves that Randy Orton is the future of this business, NOT EDGE!! And most importantly, it proves that Randy Orton is the rightful WWE Champion … not … Edge.

~ A slight ‘Edge’ chant starts up, but Orton continues.

Randy Orton: But without a rematch clause in my contract … I won’t have the opportunity to prove that right off the bat.

~ Crowd cheers.

Randy Orton: And no, I probably won’t be getting a rematch for a long … long time. Why? Because Edge … is afraid. Edge is a coward, and each and every one of you idiots knows it.

~ Cheap heat

Randy Orton: EDGE!! You’re nothing but a fluke, a paper champion. You’re not a Rated R Superstar … you’re a Rated R Fraud!

~ Masters and Mercury nod along, while the crowd continues to show it’s disgust with Randy.

Randy Orton: And the second that you man up, grow a set of balls--

~ OH!

Randy Orton: Yeah, the second that you grow a set and step into this ring with me again, the second you put that belt on the line, one-on-one, no hangers-on stealing my glory, no washed-up icons looking for one more run, no pothead piece of crap in my way, I guarantee you, and everybody within the sound of my voice, that the WWE Championship will come back to ME!!

~ More heat for Orton as the former champion takes his sunglasses and puts them back onto his face, his trademark smirk returning.

Randy Orton: And that’s not arrogance … it’s quite simply … destiny.

~ Orton drops the mic and raises his arms into his “Destiny” pose, getting some loud heat, as Masters and Mercury applaud behind him. The Legend’s Killer’s theme blasts over the loudspeaker, and TLK takes his leave from the ring, heading back up the entrance ramp with his Army in tow.

Jim Ross: Very strong words from the former champion there, basically challenging the WWE Champion Edge’s manhood here tonight! We know that the Edge is here tonight, so we’ll see if The Rated R Superstar has anything to say about it.

Jerry Lawler:
Could be an explosion here tonight!

~ At the top of the ramp, the former champion, Orton, shows us his pose once more, stone-faced as the crowd boos.

Jim Ross:
Orton will also be in action later on tonight on Raw, taking on Rob Van Dam. But up next … the new World Tag Team Champions, The ******* Wrecking Crew, Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch, are in action!

{Commercials}​

1 - Tag Team Match
******* Wrecking Crew
vs. Val Venis and Viscera

Coming off of the biggest wins in their careers, Cade and Murdoch, the NEW World Tag Team Champions, are once again in action here tonight. Instead of AMW, however, it’s the ragtag team of Viscera and Venis, which we haven’t seen on Raw since the day before forever. All this match does is give the ******* Wrecking Crew even MORE momentum following their title win, as they dominate the veteran superstars throughout, before finishing the mammoth Vis off with the Sweet ‘n’ Sour, which allows Cade to get the pin fall victory.

Winners - The ******* Wrecking Crew via pin fall at 4:11.

After the match, the referee hands Cade & Murdoch their championships and the two ******** snatch them away.

Jim Ross: These kids are good. Real good. The ******* Wrecking Crew picking up another win after beating America’s Most Wanted for the gold last night at Vengeance.

Jerry Lawler:
No offense to Val and Vis, J.R., but the first real test for Cade and Murdoch as champions comes next week here on Raw.

Jim Ross:
Absolutely, next week, KICKING OFF RAW, a Vengeance rematch! America’s Most Wanted invoke their rematch clause, and take on Cade & Murdoch for the World Tag Team Titles!! That should be a slobberknocker!!

*Backstage - Hallway*​

Rob Van Dam apparently finishes up talking to Sabu and Bill Alfonso, turns away, and begins walking down the corridor. RVD shakes the hand of several passersby, and continues on his way when ...

???:
OH!!

~ Van Dam rolls his eyes, and the crowd lets out a mixed reaction … as Shawn Michaels waltzes into screenshot. HBK wears his trademark smirk per always.

Shawn Michaels: You don’t look happy to see me, Rob. That hurts my feelings.

Rob Van Dam: What do you want, Michaels?

Shawn Michaels: Gettin’ right to it, huh? Alright. Did I read the match listing right tonight? You have a main event match with Orton tonight?

~ Van Dam nods; Michaels smirk fades a bit.

Shawn Michaels:
Last night wasn’t enough for you? The past FIVE YEARS haven’t been enough for you? You still don’t get it after all of this time?

Rob Van Dam:
Apparently not. Why don’t you explain it to me?

Shawn Michaels: I’m glad you’re ready to take my fatherly advice. Here goes. You are NOT WWE Title material. Last night at Vengeance should’ve made that perfectly obvious. In one corner … you had the WWE Champion, Randy Orton. In another corner … you had an Olympic gold medalist, Kurt Angle. Elsewhere … you’ve got a multi-time WWE Champion, Edge. And finally … you’ve got the greatest wrestler to ever lace up a pair of boots, ‘The Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels.

~ Van Dam seems incredibly bored by Michaels. HBK, however, begins to look around as if he’s lost something.

Shawn Michaels: But wait, are we forgetting someone?

Rob Van Dam:
I hear that happens with old age.

~ Michaels smiles.

Shawn Michaels:
It might be the old age … OR … in the middle of talking about champions and icons, we forgot about the insignificant, ECW, weed-smoking’, comic-book readin’, surfboardin’, bingo hall midcarder … RVD!!

~ HBK’s smile has completely faded, replaced with a look that could kill. Strangely enough, Van Dam wears the same face, as the two superstars glare right at one another.

Shawn Michaels:
It’s over, Rob. You had your little moment in the sun, and you blew it. You lost the WWE Championship in less than a month, you haven’t been important around this place for a LONG while now. So … for the sake of not embarrassing yourself anymore, I suggest that after you lose to Orton here tonight -- and yes, you will be losing; it’s what you do -- I suggest that you set your sights AWAY from the WWE Championship.

~ RVD continues to angrily glare at Michaels, who begins to smile again as he backs away.

Shawn Michaels: You know what? I hear that the Women’s Title Match hasn’t been finalized yet. Shave the five o’clock shadow, do a couple of crunches, put on a little makeup -- I’m no general manager, but Mickie James, Victoria and Rob Van Dam sounds like a damn good Triple Threat Match to me. Think about it.

~ Michaels laughs at his own joke, before turning and walking away. Van Dam continues to watch intently as we fade out.

{Commercials}​

2 - Non-Title Match
IC Champion John Bradshaw Layfield w/Angelina Williams
vs. Eugene

Continuing the trend of … continuing momentum, JBL wrestles against lovable Eugene, less than 24 hours after retaining his Intercontinental Championship in a hellacious Texas Bullrope Match. Unlike the RWC, however, JBL doesn’t dominate his gullible opponent, as he’s still quite a bit worn down from the PPV. Eugene goes through every move of his unique offense, and even manages to hit a Rock Bottom on Bradshaw, picking up a near fall! JBL manages to get back on the right track, as he avoids a People’s Elbow, pops back up to his feet, and takes Eugene’s head off with the Clothesline From Hell!! Layfield then covers him for the academic three count.

Winner - John Bradshaw Layfield via pin fall at 4:45.

Layfield gets back up to his feet, and uses his foot to roll Eugene’s lifeless carcass out of the ring and to the floor below.

Jim Ross: JBL has never been one to show his opponent much respect, and we saw that just now. Complete lack of class from our Intercontinental Champion.

Jerry Lawler: Maybe if Eugene made it out of third grade, JBL wouldn’t treat him like he does, J.R. Besides, JBL shouldn’t have to be bothered with things like this after his HUGE victory last night.

~ JBL yells at Williams to bring him both his Intercontinental Championship and a microphone. Angelina does just that, and scampers into the ring to bring them both to her boss. Bradshaw takes the IC Title and slings it over his right shoulder, before he brings the mic up.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Get up off your asses and onto your feet -- greatness stands before you.

~ Crowd boos as JBL lets out his toothy grin.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Last night at Vengeance, in Houston, Texas, in front of 15,000 fans, JBL put on the show of a LIFETIME! And when it was all said and done, the dust had settled and the smoke had cleared, JBL once again … stood tall.

~ Crowd boos.

John Bradshaw Layfield: After all of the wars, it is now proven FACT, John Bradshaw Layfield is better than Carlito.

~ More boos for Layfield, who adjusts the title belt on his shoulder.

John Bradshaw Layfield: You can cry about how it went down, and say JBL should’ve been disqualified, but the fact is, I never took that Bull Rope off, which means I am the Winnah!!

~ Boos.

John Bradshaw Layfield: And now that all of the lolitas in Mexico, or the Dominican Republic, or Puerto Rico, or Venezuela, or wherever the hell he’s from, now that they’re done cryin’ over their fallen hero, JBL can move on to more pressing business … phase TWO … double championship gold.

~ Bradshaw’s smile widens.

John Bradshaw Layfield:
When you go through the history of World Wrestling Entertainment, so very few have managed to hold onto two title belts at once. Even fewer have managed to be both the Intercontinental and a world champion at the exact same time.

~ JBL taps the IC Title.

John Bradshaw Layfield: That short list grows by one when JBL finally steps into the ring with that long-haired hippie champion of ours, Edge.

~ The crowd cheers for The Rated R Superstar.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Go ahead and cheer for Edge, but the fact is, having that punk for a champion, having that punk represent the Raw brand is pathetic!

~ Crowd boos

John Bradshaw Layfield: Edge, just because you wear cool shades, and a leather jacket, and your girlfriend dresses like she stepped out of Two-Dollar Whore Magazine--

~ OH!

John Bradshaw Layfield: Doesn’t make you Rated R, it makes you a despicable excuse for a WWE Champion! These people here may cheer you, but the fact is, they need someone they can be proud of! Someone with class, someone with dignity, someone who they NEED to represent this company! A man who’s been there before, a man who’s been through hell and back, ME!!

~ Big time heat for JBL.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Boo all you want, but you people NEED me! Raw NEEDS me! Sports-entertainment NEEDS JBL! You need the man that reigned as the WWE Champion for ten months without breaking a sweat, the man that brought prosperity to this place the likes of which this company has NEVER ever seen.

~ JBL lets out his toothy grin.

John Bradshaw Layfield: You need the man that follows in the great lineage of technical wizards like Jack Briscoe and Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart. The man who follows the larger than life deities like ‘The Immortal’ Hulk Hogan, ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair and Stone Cold Steve Austin (pop for all those names). Hell, why am I comparing myself to people in my own profession!?

~ Bradshaw scoffs.

John Bradshaw Layfield:
When you’re as great as JBL, you have to go outside of the field to find someone with similar greatness! When you talk about JBL, you’re talking about a level of greatness only attained by the Michael Jordans of the world. Babe Ruth, Muhammad Ali, Tiger Woods … George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Mahatma Gandhi, Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. - THESE ARE THE PEOPLE WHO ARE ON JBL’S LEVEL!!! THESE ARE THE PEOPLE WHO CAN BE MENTIONED IN THE SAME BREATH AS SOMEONE LIKE ME!!

~ The crowd boos JBL furiously but he talks over them.

John Bradshaw Layfield:
The ONE AND ONLY AMERICAN HEEEEEEROOOO … THE WRESTLING GAWD … John … Bradshaw … Layfield.

~ JBL brings the mic down, and the boos continue to pour in, as his music hits once again. Angelina applauds as JBL glares into the crowd with his sly smirk on his face, as we fade out.

{Commercials}

*Backstage - Interview Area*


Backstage, Todd Grisham stands by with John Morrison, dressed in a rather sharp white suit & shades, and Melina, who looks pretty amazing in a tiny white dress.

Todd Grisham:
Ladies and gentlemen, I’m standing by with John Morrison and Melina. And, John, last night at Vengeance you managed to defeat the 20-year old phenom, Ken Doane, even if it was by shady tactics. And--

~ Melina snatches the mic from Grisham.

Melina:
Wait a minute? Shady tactics? I don’t know what you’re talking about. John Morrison beat little Kenny because of one reason, and one reason only … he’s better. He’s better looking, he’s a better wrestler, and he’s better equipped to take the Monday Night Raw brand into the future.

~ Melina lets out a smirk.

Melina: Which is why Jonathan Coachman should come down to the ring tonight, or next week, or whenever the time is right, and name John Morrison …(Morrison poses after every moniker) the Guru of Greatness … the Shaman of Sexy … the Monday Night Delight … as the number one contender to the WWE Championship.

~ Crowd boos, Morrison nods … before adjusting his hair.

Melina:
Morrison is hot, he’s in the now. Orton? He had his opportunity on the top, and he blew it. Besides, if it wasn’t for John, he wouldn’t have been the WWE Champion in the first place. JBL? (Scoffs) He can hang his ugly hat on his ten month WWE Title reign … but the fact is, that was two whole years ago. John Morrison is the “it” wrestler on the scene, and if these people are smart, and if our general manager is smart, he’ll jump on the bandwagon now, and get while the gettin’ is good.

~ Melina flips the mic back over to Grisham, before she and Morrison take off.

*Back to ringside*​

Once we return, Armando Alejandro Estrada already waits in the middle of the ring.

Jim Ross: John Morrison’s name being thrown into the hat as a possible number one contender, after making an impact by beating Ken Doane last night.

Jerry Lawler: Speaking of making an impact, I don’t think anybody made more of an impact last night than Umaga.

Jim Ross:
Can’t disagree with ya there, King. Umaga defeated -- let me clarify, DESTROYED the hardcore legend Cactus Jack in a hardcore match, one of the most barbaric hardcore matches that I’ve ever seen in my thirty years here in this business!

Jerry Lawler:
Absolutely, those two guys beat the living hell out of each other! But in the end, it was UUUUUUUUMAGAAA who picked up the victory. Shhh, J.R., Armando’s ready to speak.

~ Estrada, dressed in a beige suit, along with his trademark shades and hat, has microphone in hand.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Todos, escuchame, everybody listen -- haha -- to me! In case ju haven’t heard … MY NAME ES ARMANDOOOO ALEJANDRROOOO ESTRRRRRRRADA!!! HA-HA!!

~ The crowd pops for AAE. The man is awesome, quite frankly.

Armando Alejandro Estrada:
And as ju may have noticed, my Bulldozer is -- como se dic’ -- M.I.A., he’s not with me here tonight. Don’t worry, he’s fine physically. Nothing can hurt him, but I elected to keep him away … for the protection of certain people which I will get to in a second. But believe me, his impact will be felt just like it was felt last night at Vengeance.

~ Couple of light boos from those who know where Mr. Estrada is heading.

Armando Alejandro Estrada:
For nine months on end, that big, fat, overrated, out of shape, one-eared DUMMY Mick Foley has been dying to get a piece of Umaga. He’s been dying to step into the ring with the Samoan Bulldozer, and get some revenge for all the times that Umaga has taken him, and beaten him down within an inch of his miserable life!

~ Crowd boos.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Well, last night, Mick Foley - or CACTUS JACK, whatever ju want to call him -- got the chance to get all the payback he wanted (still shots of the match last night begins to show on the titantron) -- No Holds Barred in the middle of the squared circle with my Bulldozer. And ju know what happened?

~ Estrada pauses for a quick second.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: HE FAILED!! Because Mick Foley is a loser, and the Bulldozer is unstoppable!!

~ Light boos.

Armando Alejandro Estrada:
(More shots)Tables … fire … barbwire … thumbtacks … steel chairs, the whole nine yards, and Umaga blew it all off like a fly, and with eleven shots to Cactus Jack’s fat throat, drove that disgusting pile of crap, Mick Foley, back under the rock that he comes from under every six months.

~ ‘Foley’ chant starts up, cutting AAE off. Estrada waits for them to die down before continuing.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: With Mick Foley aside, let’s talk about something far more relevant in today’s day and age. Now … I saw Randy Orton come out here, and say that he should be next in line for the WWE Championship. Ha-ha, Randy, me amigo, no offense, but ju got jour ass kicked up and down this arena last night, and ju LOST, which means ju go to the back of the line, compadre!!

~ Cheers for the trashing of Orton.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: And JBL thinks he should get the title shot too. With all due respect, Mr. Layfield … … JU BIG, GREEDY DUMMY!!

~ Laughs from the crowd.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Ju’re even more crazy than Mick Foley is! Ju already have a championship, the Intercontinental Title, and now because ju kept it, ju think ju should get a shot at another one? I think all those stock market bells have made ju a little loco in the skull.

~ A slight ‘Armando’ chant starts up, but he quickly talks over them.

Armando Alejandro Estrada:
And John Morrison? With that hairdo, he’s not worthy of my time.

~ More light laughs from crowd.

Armando Alejandro Estrada:
And, Senior Coachman, let’s not forget how me and Umaga helped you with that SmackDown problem you had a couple of months ago with Stephanie McMahon. Only one man should be considered for the next WWE Title shot. He is the single most dominant force in all of professional wrestling, he is the man who single-handedly destroyed the hardcore legend, he should be the next WWE Champion! He is … THE SAAAAAAMOAN BULLDOZERRR … (crowd joins in)UUUUUUUUMAGAAA!!!

~ ‘Samoa’ hits again, and AAE wears a wide grin on his face, as the crowd gives him a mixed reaction.

Jim Ross:
JBL, John Morrison, Randy Orton, and now Umaga?! How many WWE superstars are gonna throw their hat out to be the number one contender!?

Jerry Lawler: It’s the WWE Championship, the most prestigious prize in all of professional wrestling. This is gonna heat up before it cools off.

*Backstage - JBL Locker Room*​

John Bradshaw Layfield and Angelina Williams watch as Armando Estrada drops the microphone in the ring. Layfield angrily shakes his head, and turns it off.

Angelina Williams: (Sigh) Well, that’s one more we’ll have to go through. What now?

John Bradshaw Layfield:
Now? Now … it’s time to politic like it’s 1996. I want you to go to Coachman’s office and get me that title shot. If he brushes you off, once Raw ends, you call him every hour on the hour, and make sure he realizes just who in the hell deserves to be the damn WWE Champion! Now go!

~ Williams takes off, as JBL takes a deep breath, and walks around the locker room, before we fade out.

{Commercials}​

3 - Six Woman Tag Team Match
Mickie James, Beth Phoenix & Trish Stratus
vs. Victoria, Gail Kim & Maria

Considering five of the six competitors in the match are of capable skill or better (Maria not being one of them), it’s no surprise we get ourselves the first solid match of the evening. After the faces use a high-octane offense to dominate the opening couple of minutes, lead by Victoria’s incredible skill, the heels take over, with Mickie, Beth and Trish all getting on the same page, as they manage to isolate Maria.

With quick tags in and out, the three heel divas keep the pretty but ditsy Maria away from her corner, and help for a strong portion of the contest. After a desperation bulldog on Trish Stratus, however, Maria gains herself an opening. Once several seconds past, both Trish and Maria begin to move towards their respective corners, before finally tagging in fresher teammates, Maria tags in Victoria, and Trish tags in Mickie!!

The two top divas in the company enter the ring, and it’s Victoria who gains the immediate advantage, ducking a James’ right hand, and lighting the champion up with some hard right handed shots of her own, before she takes Mickie down with a clothesline! Beth quickly enters the ring, looking to cut off Victoria’s momentum with a stiff lariat, but Vickie ducks it, causing Beth to run into a hard right forearm from Gail on the apron! Phoenix stumbles backward, and Gail climbs to the top turnbuckle, before she leaps off and takes Beth down with a FLYING HEADSCISSORS!!!

While Vickie lifts Mickie back up to her feet, Beth rolls out of the ring in pain, as Gail brushes the hair out of her face. Kim turns around and quickly reacts, catching a charging Stratus, before she goes for a back body drop … but Trish lands on the apron! Stratus jumps down off of the apron, trips Gail up, and drags her out of the ring! Stratus then shoots Gail HARD into the steel steps!! The crowd boos as the arrogant Trish holds her arms out, and turns around … right into a baseball slide from Maria!! Maria then leaves the ring, and mounts Trish, raining down right hands on the blond bombshell.

Inside the ring, Victoria grabs the hand of Mickie and shoots her into the ropes with an Irish whip. Vickie gets set too early, however, and once Mickie comes back, she wraps her left arm around Victoria’s head - looking for the MICKIE DDT!! Mickie raises her hand into the air, and lets out an ear-piercing scream, before looking to hit it - but Victoria counters with an OVERHEAD RELEASE NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX!!! Bad-ass.

Mickie staggers up to her feet, and Vickie delivers a sharp kick to her gut, before tucking the champ between her legs!! The crowd rises to its feet, as Victoria lifts Mickie up into position for the WIDOW’S PEAK … AND HITS IT!!! Victoria then turns Mickie over, and covers her for the THREE COUNT!!

Winners - Victoria, Gail Kim and Maria via pin fall at 9:13.

VICTORIA PINS MICKIE FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER!!! {In this thread at least :$ (I think :$)}

Jim Ross:
Victoria just pinned Mickie, and Victoria continues to roll!! But you’ve got to be asking yourself, after Mickie’s VERY lackluster performance last night, is this title reign of hers running out of gas … and on borrowed time?

The crowd roars as Vickie somewhat sadistically runs her fingers through her hair, before she stares back at a downed Mickie, and then quickly snaps her head up to stare at the Women’s Championship at the timekeeper’s position.

*Backstage - MVP Locker Room*​

Montel Vontavious Porter sits on a nice black leather couch, in his plush locker room, feet up on his oak coffee table, surrounded by his pretty Playgirls, Layla, Kelly and Brooke, and his not-so-pretty bodyguard, Luther Reigns. Suddenly, there’s a knock on the door…

Montel Vontavious Porter:
Let ‘em in.

~ Reigns opens the door and looks down to see Todd Grisham holding a microphone.

Luther Reigns:
What do you want?

Todd Grisham: Just a quick word with MVP.

~ Reigns looks the clearly scared Grisham up and down for a couple of seconds, before turning around to Porter.

Luther Reigns: ‘VP?

~ Montel looks at his blinged-out watch.

Montel Vontavious Porter: Yeah, we’ve got some time. Let him on in, Big Lu’.

~ Reigns steps aside and allows Grisham to scurry on by.

Montel Vontavious Porter:
Have a seat, make yourself comfortable.

~ Grisham sits down next to MVP on the couch. He then puts his feet up.

Montel Vontavious Porter: Not that comfortable.

~ Grisham quickly brings his feet down, and wipes off the spot where his shoes were.

Todd Grisham: I just wanted to get your thoughts after picking up your first big win -- your first pay per view victory over Sabu last night at Vengeance.

Montel Vontavious Porter: First of all, let me correct you on one thing, that was my first pay per view win, but that wasn’t my first big win. Y’see, when you’re gettin’ paid like I’m gettin’ paid, livin’ how I’m livin’, get the kinda hype that I’ve gotten, there’s always haters out there lookin’ to bring you down, lookin’ to snatch it all away, so EVERY win is a big win when you’re MVP … especially when you’ve got your sights set on the biggest prize in the game.

~ Grisham looks a bit surprised.

Todd Grisham:
Does that mean you’re looking for a shot at the WWE Championship down the line?

Montel Vontavious Porter: ‘Down the line’? Try ‘shortly’. With Orton out of the WWE Title picture for now, the title race is wide open, and you betta’ believe that the highest-touted, highest-paid playa’ in the history of Monday Night Raw, half-man, half-amazing is looking for the big gold soon enough.

~ MVP looks at his watch again, this time shaking his head.

Montel Vontavious Porter:
Well, that’s all the time I’ve got for ya’ today. Busy night scheduled. Gotta get a pedicure, manicure, facial -- looking this good for the ladies doesn’t just come naturally, it’s a process. Luther, show Mr. Grisham the door.

Todd Grisham: Thanks, but I got it.

Montel Vontavious Porter:
Please, you’re a guest. I wouldn’t want to be rude. Lu?

~ Reigns walks over to Grisham and roughly grabs him by his collar. Luther then rushes forward and FLINGS poor Todd through the locker room door, head-first into the outside wall!! MVP and his Playgirls begin laughing.

{Commercials}​

4 - Sabu w/Bill Alfonso vs. John Morrison w/Melina

Unorthodox styles clash here, in what turned out to be a decent enough match up. Morrison continues to wow the crowd with his flashy offensive maneuvers, but sadly enough for him, it’s not enough to put the ECW alumnus away in the first five minutes of the match up, with Sabu showing his legendary toughness, as he manages to kick out of every Morrison near fall.

Sabu begins to dish out some punishment of his own towards the end of the match up, drilling Morrison with hard right hands to the face, before he shoots him into the corner. Sabu then charges in, leaps up, and drills him with the AIR SABU, causing the youngster to stumble out of the corner. The Death-Defying Superstar then kicks him in the gut, and gets into position, looking for a possible vertical suplex, but Morrison counters, landing on his feet behind him. Morrison then grabs Sabu by the neck, looking to hit a CORKSCEW NECKBREAKER - but Sabu fights out of it, and shoots Morrison into the ropes. Once Morrison comes back, he avoids an oncoming Sabu clotheslines, leaps onto the middle rope and drills Sabu in the face with a springboard enzuigiri!!

Morrison then grabs Sabu and drags him towards the corner, before The Guru of Greatness, steps onto the apron, and climbs to the top turnbuckle. He gets himself set, before leaping off with a SHOOTING STAR PRESS … but Sabu rolls out of the way, causing Morrison to crash and burn!! Both superstars stagger back up to their feet, but Morrison is clearly worse for wear, which allows Sabu to kick him in the gut, and drill The Shaman of Sexy with a scintillating DDT!!

Still feeling the effects of Morrison’s stiff enzuigiri, Sabu doesn’t immediately look to capitalize. He finally shakes it off and follows in the footsteps of his opponent, stepping out onto the apron. Sabu then climbs to the top rope, as Melina begins to worry at ringside. The devilish diva leaps onto the apron and attempts to distract Sabu … but she’s soon yanked back to the ground by Fonzie!!

Melina rears back and tries to slap Fonzie, but he grabs her hand, and blows his whistle loudly in her face, getting a laugh from the crowd. It also distracts Sabu even further, allowing Morrison to get back up to his feet. The Monday Night Delight quickly runs forward, leaps onto the middle rope, before leaping off again, and drills Sabu in the head with a rather sweet looking kick!! Sabu crumbles down to the canvas, but Morrison quickly lifts him back up, before dropping him with the CORKSCREW NECKBREAKER!! He then covers him for the three count!!

Winner - John Morrison via pin fall at 9:39.

Morrison rolls out of the ring, picking up his second victory in as many nights over relatively established competition. Melina snatches her arm free from Fonzie and joins her boyfriend, as he heads up the entrance ramp, possibly gaining himself a bit more legitimacy as a potential WWE Title contender.

*Backstage - Outside the GM’s Office*​

We get ourselves a shot of the door of Jonathan Coachman. Soon enough, ‘The Wrestling Machine’ Kurt Angle walks out, looking none too pleased. Kurt shakes his head in displeasure before turning around…

???: Hey, pero.

~ Angle’s attention (and possible aggression) turns to Armando Alejandro Estrada, who walks up to the Olympian.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: I noticed ju look a bit -- como se dic’ -- perturbed.

~ Angle continues to glare a hole through Estrada.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: I already told ju and everybody else that’s its of no use talking to the general manager, or anybody else about getting a title shot. Because it’s already wrapped up by Umaga! Haha!

~ Angle lets out a bit of a smile.

Kurt Angle: Look, I don’t know if you noticed, but I haven’t been having a great couple o’ days. First, I didn’t get the job done last night at Vengeance. And now, I get told that I have to wait until next week to get a decision about who the next challenger for the WWE Title is!! And, TO TOP IT ALL OFF, I’VE GOT AN IDIOT IN A GOOFY LOOKING HAT TALKING TO ME ABOUT GOD KNOWS WHAT!!!

~ Estrada adjusts his hat, as Angle fumes.

Kurt Angle: So I suggest you get the hell out of my face and out of my way, before something bad happens.

~ AAE lets out a wide smirk.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Something bad? Haha, me amigo, ju must not know who I represent. I represent the SAAAAAAMOAN BULLDOZER UUUUUMAGAAAA!!! Haha!! And considering the night ju had last night, ju’re not in the position to threaten anybody, my friend. In fact, if I were ju, I would just--

~ WHAP!!! ANGLE SLAPS THE TASTE OUT OF AAE’S MOUTH!!! Angle then grabs the charismatic manager by his lapels and tosses him into the wall!! Estrada crumbles down to the ground, but Angle’s not quite finished, as he delivers a couple of stiff boots to the stomach of AAE!! Angle then storms off in frustration, as Estrada lies on the ground in pain.

*Backstage - Hallways - Split Screen*​

Randy Orton(w/RKO Army) and Rob Van Dam walks down a hallway and towards the ring for their main event match up.

Jim Ross: Ladies and gentlemen, up next, our main event. Two former WWE Champions go one on one in the squared circle here tonight. ‘The Legend Killer’ Randy Orton versus ‘Mr. Monday Night’ Rob Van Dam.

Jerry Lawler:
If Randy wants that WWE Championship rematch, I think he needs to prove it right here and now.

Jim Ross: The One Man Dynasty versus The Whole Dam Show! NEXT!!

{Commercials}​

5 - Main Event
Randy Orton w/RKO Army
vs. Rob Van Dam w/Bill Alfonso

The match up starts with a feeling out process, with both Orton and Van Dam trying to get control of their respective emotions after a eventful couple of days - Orton, losing the WWE Champions, and effectively losing some of his control tonight; Van Dam, still after all of this time, failing to prove that he TRULY belongs in WWE main events. Finally, after a minute or two, the match begins to take form, with Orton managing to fend off RVD’s initial onslaught, with a simple thumb to the eye.

The Legend Killer then takes control of the match up for a healthy portion of the match up, running through the methodical moves of his offense, including that damn chinlock he loves so much. Eventually though, Mr. Monday Night begins to fight back, using his onslaught of kicks to ward off the One Man Dynasty. At the eight minute mark, Van Dam manages to take Orton down with a front power slam, before he pops back up to his feet. RVD then shoots off the ropes, rolls, pops back up, flips in mid air, and drills Orton with the ROLLING THUNDER!! Van Dam then covers the former champion. 1... 2... NO! Orton kicks out.

RVD lifts Orton back up to his feet, and looks to shoot him into the corner, but Orton counters. The Legend Killer then charges in, but Orton gets his feet up and into his face! Van Dam quickly turns around and leaps onto the middle turnbuckle, and flips off, taking Orton down with a cross body! 1... 2... NO! Orton kicks out again. TLK staggers up to his feet, clearly on the ropes so far, and does the smart thing, rolling out of the ring. RVD follows him out, and the chase is on, as Van Dam chases Orton around the ring!

Orton slides back in, and shoots off of the ropes, as Van Dam slides back in as well. Orton comes back, and throws a clothesline, but Van Dam ducks it, and grabs the waist of The Legend Killer. He tries to lift him up, but Orton counters with a standing switch, before quickly adjusting, and hits Van Dam with his modified back breaker!! The crowd boos as Randy then drops down his stomach, stalking a pained RVD, looking for a possible RKO.

Van Dam begins to stumble up to his feet, before turning around, and Orton leaps up - LOOKING FOR THE RKO - but Van Dam counters, shoving Orton to the ground!! The crowd cheers as Orton gets back up, and gets taken right back down with a spinning back kick from RVD!! Van Dam then walks over to the turnbuckle, and leaps to the top, causing the fans to rise to their feet. RVD takes a quick look around, before he leaps off - GOING FOR THE FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH - but Orton gets his knees up, driving them into the sternum of Van Dam!!!

RVD bumbles around the ring, holding his gut, while Orton quickly gets back up to his feet. Van Dam turns back around to face Orton, and The Legend Killer grabs his legs, puts him on his back … and then locks in the TEXAS CLOVERLEAF!!! RVD screams out in pain, as Orton has the hold cinched in to perfection. Van Dam immediately looks to grab the ropes, but Orton has got him about as close to the center of the ring as possible. We get a quick shot of Shawn Michaels in his locker room watching, shaking his head with an “I told you so” smirk.

Orton grins wildly as RVD reaches out, looking for the rope break, but still to far. Van Dam slams his hands against the mat, and begins to claw his way towards the ropes. Intensity on his face brimming, Orton does everything he can to keep RVD stationary, but its of no use, as Van Dam shows some incredible determination, pulling himself towards the edge of the ring. Van Dam then reaches out, and … GRABS THE BOTTOM ROPE!!! The crowd roars for RVD, saving this match up for himself.

Orton lets go of the hold almost immediately, and in a fit of rage, begins to wildly stomp away on the back of RVD with every bit of force he has left in his body!! The crowd pours on the heat for The Legend Killer, as Orton lifts Van Dam up to his feet, and into position for a DDT!!! RVD COUNTERS, however, and throws a clothesline … but ORTON COUNTERS, AND GOES FOR THE RKO, but VAN DAM COUNTERS, pushing Orton into the ropes!!

Randy comes back, and Van Dam looks for another spinning back kick, but Orton ducks, and GOES FOR THE RKO ONE MORE TIME - AND ONCE MORE IT’S COUNTERED, THIS TIME INTO A BACKSLIDE!!!

1...

2...

…3!!!

Winner - Rob Van Dam via pin fall at 15:51.

The crowd erupts into one of the loudest pops of the night, as RVD hops back up to his feet, and raises his arms in the air, while Fonzie blows his whistle madly at ringside. Orton gets up onto his knees and looks around with bugged out eyes, in complete and utter shock.

Jim Ross: HE GOT ‘IM!!! RVD just pinned Randy Orton!!

We cut to the back to show Shawn Michaels watching his monitor with a scowl on his face, angrily running his hands through his hair.

Jerry Lawler: H- h- how- but why- Poor Randy! I can’t believe this, J.R.!! The Legend Killer is not having a great couple of days. Will he still be named the number one contender after this!?

Jim Ross: I don’t think that was confirmed anyway, but up next, the WWE Champion Edge addresses the crowd for the first time as the new champion! The Rated R Superstar is up next!

{Commercials}​

Back from the final commercial break, Randy Orton hasn’t left the ring yet, and instead paces in the ring like a caged animal, microphone in hand.

Jim Ross:
I know we promised you the new WWE Champion before the break, but the FORMER champions has yet to leave.

Jerry Lawler: Orton’s on the verge of having a breakdown.

~ Mercury and Masters watch on as Orton finally brings the mic up.

Randy Orton:
Lets set the record straight right here and NOW!! That loss means nothing!! It was a rollup!! Van Dam got lucky, it was a quick count, it was nothing but a FLUKE!! I--

~ Thunderous boos for Orton’s bitching cuts The Legend Killer off, causing him to glare at the crowd.

Randy Orton: And hell, it makes no difference if I lose a HUNDRED matches, I’m still the rightful number one contender for the WWE Championship!! You know it, I know it, Edge knows it, EVERYBODY ON THE PLANET KNOWS--

***METALINGUS***

The crowd gets up to its feet, dishing out the loudest ovation of the night as the theme music of The Rated R Superstar blasts throughout the arena. The fans in the arena get even louder as the NEW WWE CHAMPION EDGE steps out onto the stage, dawned in a pair of shades, a black t-shirt and jeans, with the WWE Championship draped over his right shoulder, and the lovely Lita by his side.

Jim Ross: There he is!! The new WWE Champion, Edge! It took him six months to regain the WWE Championship that he lost at New Year’s Revolution to Randy Orton, but The Rated R Superstar fought his way back to the top, and now, Edge is once again The Man in the WWE!

Jerry Lawler: And as ‘The Man’, as you think he is, he should come out here and demand that Randy Orton become the number one contender. It’s only fair, J.R.

~ Orton and company watch on as Edge stares around at the thousands of cheering fans around the arena, before he lifts the title up into the air, setting off a tremendous amount of pyro!! It finally stops and Edge slings the belt back over his shoulder, before he and Lita continue on down to the ring. Orton and his Army watch as The Rated R Superstar climbs up the steel steps and climbs into the ring. The WWE Champion calls for a microphone, and gets one as his music dies down.

Edge: It--

~ Edge is cut off by a “RATED R” chant, which cause both he and Orton to turn their heads towards the crowd, Orton with a furious scowl, and the new WWE Champion with a sly smirk.

Edge: It’s strange, y’know. When I came to this building about five hours ago, all I got was congratulations. Congratulations from all the fans, the boys in the back, all the referees, backstage workers -- congrats on being the new WWE Champion.

~ Light cheers, as Orton continues to watch Edge attentively. The Rated R Superstar walks a bit, rubbing his beard.

Edge:
Now, that kind of outpouring of congratulations isn’t foreign to me; I’ve been the WWE Champion twice before. But this time … it was different.

~ Edge looks right into the eyes of Orton.

Edge:
It was more than just congratulations, it was appreciation, it was understanding. It was each wrestler in the back knowing what I had to go through to get this championship back on my shoulder.

~ Orton stares at the title belt.

Edge:
It was every fan in this arena understanding what it’s like to be stabbed in the back by the people who I trusted.

~ Masters and Mercury hold their heads down a bit, as Edge glares a hole through them.

Edge:
It was people appreciating what this journey back to the title has done to me. Chasing the WWE Championship wasn’t a career choice for me, it ended up being a life choice.

~ Edge shakes his head a bit.

Edge:
You’d be surprised how many of my friends and family came up to me, and told me that I changed since I lost the WWE Championship. They all saw what losing that title did to me. All these fans saw it. J.R., The King, Lita, they all saw it too.

~ Edge runs his hands through his hair.

Edge: I became obsessed -- more than obsessed -- I became fixated, possessed with getting this title back on my shoulder!! (Through gritted teeth) And it almost cost me EVERYTHING!!! Everything, Orton!!

~ The Rated R Superstar takes a deep breath, composing himself.

Edge:
You saw it too, you knew how hard it was on me, how hard it was on everyone around me. And what did ya do? You did what great champions do, you capitalized on it at every opportunity. You caught me napping at WrestleMania and picked up the win. Same thing at Backlash. And then to cap it all off, the Raw before Vengeance, last week, you decided to try to kick in my skull!!

~ Edge glares at Orton with anger … but that soon turns into a smile.

Edge:
And I’ve gotta thank you for that.

~ The Legend Killer squints his eyes, confused.

Edge:
Yeah, after you damn near decapitated me, and I laid there on that cold floor, wondering just where in the hell I was, somewhere between the doctor putting that damn light in my face, and Lita’s tears--

~ Quick shot of Lita looking at the canvas, as Edge inches closer to Orton.

Edge:
Guess what, Randy? … I had an epiphany. Yeah, I decided that the best way to get even with you wasn’t to look to get payback, or look to take you out, it was quite simply … to take back what’s MINE!! The way to get to you was to take away from you the one thing that makes you who you are, and the one thing that caused me to be what I became -- the WWE Championship.

~ The crowd cheers as Orton’s jaw tightens. Edge takes off his shades, and gets even closer to Orton, right in his ear.

Edge: So now … I want you to tell me how it feels, Randy. How does it feel to know that I have what you want, what you NEED? How does it feel to know that I have what you worked your ass off to hold for months on end? How does it feel to know that you’re the one losing it now, you smug SOB!

~ The crowd roars as Orton closes his eyes, attempting to contain his anger.

Edge:
Tell me how it feels, Orton … to know that if it’s up to me … I will NEVER give you a shot at the WWE Championship?

~ Orton’s face completely drops, as even more cheers emit from the crowd. Lita lets out a smirk, as Edge stays right up next to Orton’s ear. The WWE Champion mouths ‘yeah, that’s right’, before he brings the mic back up.

Edge: Get it through your head, Orton. The One Man Dynasty … is OVER!

~ The crowd erupts once more as The Legend Killer turns to face his arch rival, mixed emotions on his face - sadness, shock, anger - his usual arrogant demeanor COMPLETELY gone.

Edge: And the Rated R Era has once again BEGUN!!

~ More cheers, as Edge backs away from Orton with a smirk. The Legend Killer attempts to shake his current state off, and brings the mic up.

Randy Orton: I already knew you wouldn’t give me a title shot, Edge. You know why? Because you’re a coward. You’re a coward, Edge. You know what would happen if me and you got in this ring one-on-one. You know that--

Edge: Save it, Randy; I caught your speech from earlier. Keep the reverse psychology crap for someone who doesn’t know what a disgusting piece of crap you are!! Save it for someone who wasn’t in the same position you’re in now three months ago, only to have you tell me that you wouldn’t give me a shot at regaining the WWE Championship!

So don’t think I’m bothered by you calling me a coward, because the look on your face right now … the one that knows that he is gonna have to CLAW his way back into the title picture, inch by agonizing inch … over challenger after challenger … through hell and high water, fighting former champions, monsters, savages, young upstarts, hardcore wrestlers, gold medalists, and icons makes it all worth it!!

~ The Raw audience cheers Edge on, as Orton looks ready to cry, holding his head down. Another loud “RATED R” chant starts up, as Edge glares at Orton.

Edge:
And, Orton, that’s not arrogance…

~ The Rated R Superstar takes his shades and puts them back on, before slapping the title belt on his shoulder.

Edge: …it’s payback, you little bitch.

~ “Metalingus” hits once more as the crowd continues to cheer for the new champion. Edge drops the mic at a stunned Orton’s feet, before he and Lita take their leave from the ring.

With Edge & Lita heading up the entrance ramp, the camera focuses in on the face of The Legend Killer, who looks like he just lost his best friend, head down, clearly distraught over the drastic turn his career has taken in a mere 24 hours: from being on top of the world as the WWE Champion, to now, just another schmuck looking to get into the WWE Title picture. At the top of the ramp, Edge turns back around and raises the WWE Championship to another incredible ovation as we fade off the air.

END OF SHOW

***



Current Card for SummerSlam
August 26th, 2007
East Rutherford, New Jersey

NO MATCHES YET ANNOUNCED
 
#181 · (Edited)
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by ddmrko




WWE RAW
July 31, 2006
Boston, Massachusetts
Fleet Center


“Across The Nation” plays and the opening RAW video plays. The pyro goes off in the arena as the audience in Boston goes crazy. The camera pans the audience and gets a close up of the fans and the signs that they have brought with them to the Fleet Center. We cut to Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler.


Jim Ross: Hello everyone. I’m Good Ol’ J.R., Jim Ross, here with Jerry “The King” Lawler and what a hell of a show we have for you here tonight.

Jerry Lawler: Absolutely J.R., tonight Vince McMahon has put DX’s back against the wall. Tonight, “The Game” Triple H teams up with The “Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels to take on “The Samoan Bulldozer” Umaga and “The Monster” Abyss.


Jim Ross: DX versus those two damn monsters right here tonight under a month away from those two compete in a WWE Title match.


“Burn In My Light” hits to a loud mixed reaction. Randy Orton comes from the back and does his “destiny” pose at the top of the entrance way. Orton’s pyro falls and Orton makes his way to the ring.


Lilian Garcia: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, from St. Louis, Missouri, weighing in at 245 pounds, “The Legend Killer” RANDY ORTON!


J.R.: It was announced last Monday night that on August 20 at SummerSlam, “The Legend Killer” Randy Orton will take on John Cena in a First Blood match. That is gonna be a brutal war at SummerSlam!

King: At SummerSlam, Randy is gonna do the same thing he did to Cena on the 3 Hour edition of RAW. He’s gonna battle and bloody Cena and make Cena a former shell of himself.


“It Wasn’t My Fault” hits to a minor pop. Snitsky comes down to the ring looking focused for competition.


Lilian: And his opponent, from Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania, weighing in at 300 pounds, SNITSKY!


Match #1
Randy Orton vs. Snitsky


Orton and Snitsky lock up in the middle of the ring. Orton backs Snitsky up into a corner and automatically begins to hit Snitsky with hard right hands to the face. The referee pulls Orton out of the corner and begins to reprimand him. Orton turns back around to Snitsky and The Legend Killer gets nailed with a hard right hand as Snitsky fights out of the corner. Snitsky backs Orton up into the ropes with a fierce barrage of punches. Snitsky attempts to clothesline Orton out of the ring but he sidesteps the 300 pounder and throws Snitsky from the ring. Orton follows Snitsky to the outside and immediately goes on the attack. Orton lifts him off the ground and shoots him into the post. Snitsky face drills the post hard and he immediately goes down. Orton mounts Snitsky and starts to rain down right hands. Orton lifts him up and throws him into the ring. The camera focuses in on Snitsky’s face and sees that he was bloodied by the shot into the turnbuckle. Orton delivers a nasty stomp to the bloody face of Snitsky. Orton then drops to the ground and waits for Snitsky. Snitsky wobbles up to his feet as Orton waits behind him. Snitsky turns around, Orton jumps up and drills him with the RKO. Snitsky’s blood stains the mat as he goes face first onto the canvas. Orton covers Snitsky.


One………….

Two…………..

THREE!!!


(WINNER: Randy Orton via pinfall at 5:46)


J.R.: My God! Look at Snitsky! He’s a bloody mess! Orton bloodied Cena two weeks ago and he bloodied Gene Snitsky tonight.

King: I would say that Orton is definitely the favorite in that first blood match. John Cena is in trouble.



***We cut to the backstage area into Vince McMahon’s office. Edge and his Rated R Army (Lita, Shelton Benjamin, Chris Masters, Johnny Nitro and Melina) barge into the room.***


Edge: This is ridiculous!

Mr. McMahon: What the hell is this!?

Edge: Vince what are you doing!? At SummerSlam I have to defend my title in a triple threat match against DX. I don’t even have to be pinned to lose my Championship.

Mr. McMahon: I don’t give a damn. That would probably work out better for me. Lets say Hunter wins the title at SummerSlam. Shawn’s ego won’t be able to take it. That’s the end of DX.

Edge: Vince, listen. I understand that but DX would definitely split up if they both lost. Each one would blame the other for the loss. Boom, no more D-Generation X. What do you think?

Mr. McMahon: That’s not a bad plan.

Edge: So how about we insure their loss tonight.

Mr. McMahon: What do you have in mind?

Edge: We already know that tonight DX will take on Abyss and Umaga in a tag team match. So how about we change that match into a tag team lumberjack match with myself and The Rated R Army around ringside.

Mr. McMahon: Edge….you have yourself a deal.



McMahon and Edge shake hands as The Rated R Army have smiles on their faces.


---Commercial Break---


J.R.: Before we went to the break we found out that in the main event, Triple H and Shawn Michaels have to face Umaga and Abyss with The Rated R Army surrounding ringside.

King: J.R. combine that with the fact that DX is not exactly on the same page these days, we may not have to wait until SummerSlam to see the self-implosion of D-Generation X.



“Pay The Price” hits to a decent pop. Charlie Haas makes his way down to the ring, looking determined.


Lilian: The following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, from Edmond, Oklahoma, weighing in at 238 pounds, CHARLIE HAAS!


J.R.: Last week, Charlie Haas gave a hell of an effort in his loss to the “Legend Killer” Randy Orton. Lets see if Haas can build on that performance and pick up a win here tonight.



“Teacher” hits to minor heat. Matt Striker makes his way down the entrance ramp and into the ring.


Lilian: and his opponent, from New York, New York, weighing in at 220 pounds, MATT STRIKER!


Match #2
Charlie Haas vs. Matt Striker


Haas and Striker lock up to start off the match. Haas takes Striker over with a beautiful arm drag. Striker quickly gets back up and charges at Haas who takes him down with another well placed arm drag. Striker rolls out of the ring and recovers on the outside. Haas follows Striker to the outside and the chase is on! Striker runs around the ring as Haas is in pursuit. Striker slides back into the ring and Haas follows. Striker begins to stomp away on his back before Haas can get back to his feet. Matt lifts Charlie off of the ground and shoots Haas into the turnbuckle. Striker charges at Haas in the corner but he avoids the contact and Striker goes chest-first into the turnbuckle. Haas goes behind striker and grabs him by the waist. Haas then takes Striker over and drills him with a German suplex. The fans pop as Haas applies a submission hold to the legs of Striker.


King: What the hell is that?! That’s got to hurt. Look at the pressure on Striker’s back and legs.

J.R.: He calls that the “Haas of Pain”. That’s one nasty submission. And Striker is tapping out. Striker taps.



(WINNER: Charlie Haas via submission at 5:45)


J.R.: Nice win for Charlie Haas. This young man is going to go places here on Monday Night RAW.


***We cut to the backstage area into Mr. McMahon’s office again***


McMahon dials a number on his cell phone.


McMahon: Shane, Shane. Its me. I just wanted to say….Hello? Hello? DAMN IT!


McMahon throws his cell phone against a wall. Vince sits down on his couch until there is a knock on the door.


McMahon: Come in!

Trish Stratus walks into the room.

McMahon: What do you want?!

Trish: I want Mickie James in the ring! Tonight!

McMahon: You want the Women’s Champion in the ring tonight?! YOU GOT IT!



Trish smiles and the audience cheers wildly.


McMahon: You got Mickie James as a tag team partner. Tonight it will be Trish teaming up with Mickie James to take on two Rated R divas Melina and Lita. Now get out of my office.


Trish leaves Vince’s office as the fans give heat.


---Commercial Break---


“Space Odyssey” hits to a tremendous ovation. “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair makes his away to the ring.

J.R.: One of the greatest, if not the greatest, wrestler in the history of the business, “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair is here tonight in Boston. Lets take you back to two weeks ago.


***Clip plays of the Edge-Ric Flair WWE Title match from two weeks ago. Flair is in control until a Cactus Jack video plays. The video allows Edge to hit the Spear and pick up the win.***


King: Lets not forget that a Cactus Jack video distracted Flair last week and made him get speared again.


Flair grabs a microphone from ringside and prepares to speak.

Flair: It feels good to be back in Boston (cheap pop). I want to tell you people a story. On June 26, I wrestled Mick Foley in a match-up. Instead of fighting me like a man, Foley got himself intentionally disqualified. After the match, instead of just walking away with his tail tucked between his legs, Foley bloodied me with a hammer. A God damn hammer! If that wasn’t bad enough that fat, out of shape, piece of crap doesn’t show up to RAW for a month. So then, about a month has passed and “The Nature Boy”…WHOO!…has become the #1 contender for the WWE Title. This no good bastard Foley puts up a Cactus Jack video during my match. My match?! Foley, I want a piece of your ass!


The audience cheers loudly as Flair takes off his jacket.


Flair: I don’t care if its Mick Foley! I don’t care if its Dude Love! I don’t care if its Mankind! I don’t even give a SHIT if its Cactus Jack (Not censored)! Foley I want your ass at SummerSlam.


The crowd pops for a possible Flair-Cactus match at SS.


Flair: Whatever you want Foley! Whatever you want! You want tables?! WHOO! You want Barbwire?! WHOO! You want chairs?! WHOO! Thumbtacks?! WHOO! Ladders?! WHOO! You can have it all. Damn it I hate you!


Flair backs up and drops an elbow on his jacket.


Flair: FOLEY! I want an answer by next week! Next week Foley! If I don’t get my answer by next week, I’m gonna hop on a plane. I’m gonna fly to Long Island, New York. And Foley, I swear to God I will beat your ass in front of your wife and kids. Don’t test me Foley because one way or another “The Nature Boy”…WHOO!…is going to put an end to Mick Foley! WHOO!


Flair picks up his jacket and exit’s the ring as the fans go crazy.


King: Flair is a nut he’s gone completely insane.

J.R.: Flair wants Cactus Jack and he’s gonna get him one way or another.



***We cut to the backstage area with The Coach standing by***


Coach: Ladies and gentlemen, one of the competitors in the triple threat WWE Title match at SummerSlam, “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels.

Michaels comes into screenshot receiving a huge ovation and wearing a DX t-shirt.

Coach: Shawn, I see you are wearing the t-shirt but lets be honest, how can you keep DX together when the two of you will be competing for the same championship at SummerSlam on August 20th.

HBK: Coach, as you may or may not have known, but Triple H and myself have been having a lot of tension between the two of us as of late. So going into SummerSlam, you would think that we might see the self-destruction of D-Generation X. Vinnie Mac, I got to tell you that’s not a bad plan. But the fact of the matter is that, Triple H and I are two professionals. If I can be blunt, we’re two damn legends. So basically what I’m trying to say is, WHEN I win the WWE Championship at SummerSlam, Triple H is gonna have to deal with it.



The audience gives a mixed reaction as they are split over which member of DX they want to win more. Michaels walks off as The Coach looks on.


King: We are witnessing the end of DX. Just admit it J.R.

J.R.: It doesn’t look good. I’ll say that much. But coming up next, John Cena takes on Ken Doane of The Spirit Squad. Cena in action, NEXT!



---Commercial Break-During the break a commercial airs hyping the Dream match set to take place at SummerSlam. Batista vs. Kurt Angle for the World Heavyweight Championship---


“Spirit” hits to decent heat. Ken Doane (with The Spirit Squad) makes his way to the ring with a confident look on his face.


Lilian: The following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, from Worchester, Massachusetts, weighing in at 234 pounds, KEN DOANE!


J.R.: Last week on RAW, Kenny told his fellow “Spirit Squaders” that he wanted to be called by his actual name, Ken Doane.



“My Time Is Now” blasts over the loudspeaker and receives an incredibly loud mixed reaction. About 60/40 cheers. John Cena makes his way down to the ramp and he still has a bandage on his forehead.


Lilian: And his opponent, from West Newbury, Massachusetts, weighing in at 255 pounds, JOHN CENA!


J.R.: As you can see, Cena has a bandage on his head. That’s from two weeks ago when Randy Orton bloodied Cena with a steel chair shot.

King: Cena needed 10 stitches in that forehead of his. And you know what J.R.? That’s a waste of stitches because Cena’s going to get busted open again by Orton at SummerSlam. Ha! Ha!



Match #3
Ken Doane vs. John Cena


Cena and Doane lock up to start the match off. The two struggle for leverage for several seconds but the two superstars eventually break the hold. Doane slaps Cena right across the face. Cena glares at Doane with a pissed off look. Cena then hits Doane with hard right hands, the last of which knocks Doane down. Cena then lifts Doane up and shoots him off of the ropes. Cena goes for a back body drop but Doane realizes that Cena gets set early and hits Cena with a boot to the face. Doane then starts throwing right hands at Cena. Doane then shoots Cena off of the ropes. Cena comes flying off the ropes and runs Doane over with a nasty shoulder block. Cena then gets down and covers Doane.


One………..

Two…….Doane kicks out!


Cena lifts Doane off the ground and shoots him into the corner. Cena charges into the corner but Doane gets both of his feet up and into the face of Cena which causes Cena to stumble backward. Doane, with his back into the corner, climbs to the top turnbuckle. Doane launches off of the top and levels Cena with a hard flying clothesline. Doane doesn’t go for the cover but instead plays to the crowd. Doane goes back over to Cena and lifts him back to his feet. Doane scoops Cena up and hits a body slam. Doane goes over to his Spirit Squad and begins talking to them.


J.R.: What’s he doing?

King: It looks like…..he’s sending the Spirit Squad out of here. He doesn’t need them. That’s confidence for you J.R..



The Spirit Squad complains before they leave the ringside area. Doane goes back over to Cena and lifts him up. Cena, with his strength regained, begins to hit Doane with right hands. Cena bounces off the ropes and runs Doane over with a clothesline. Doane quickly gets back up and Cena levels him with another one. Cena then waits until Doane gets back up, grabs him and drills him with a spin-out power bomb. Cena raises his right hand in the air as some fans cheer and some boo. Cena does the “You Can’t See Me” routine and hits the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena waits for Doane to make it back to his feet. Doane gets up and Cena lifts him up for the FU. Cena hits It! Cena then locks on the STFU. Kenny struggles and hold on. The fans cheers quickly turn into boos as they see Randy Orton sprinting down the ramp with a steel chair in hand. Orton enters the ring and drills him in the back with a steel chair. The referee calls for the disqualification.


(WINNER: John Cena via DQ at 9:47)


Orton looks at Cena with an arrogant smile on his face as he waits for Cena to get back to his feet. Cena slowly gets up to a vertical base as Orton is being showered in boos. Cena turns around and Orton blasts him in the face with the steel chair.


King: Ha! Ha! What did I tell you J.R.! Yes!

J.R.: My god. John Cena has been busted open again. Orton has bloodied Cena again with a nasty steel chair shot.



The camera closes up on Cena’s face as the blood flows from his forehead. Orton throws the chair to the ground and does his “destiny” pose. Orton gets close up to Cena’s face and snaps his fingers as if to say “Just like that!” Orton leaves the ring to a tremendous amount of heat.


---Commercial Break---


J.R.: Ladies and gentlemen, before the break “The Legend Killer” Randy Orton bloodied John Cena for the second time. During this interlude Cena was helped to the back and apparently didn’t have any idea as to what was going around his surroundings. We believe he may have suffered a concussion and we’ll keep you updated on his condition.

King: What’s the moral of the story J.R.? Don’t mess with The Legend Killer. If Randy costs you a match, let it go. If he spits in your face, let it go. And if he beats you to a bloody pulp, let it go. If not, he’ll just bloody you up again. Ha! Ha! I feel bad for Cena cause he’s gonna have to get bloodied again at SummerSlam. But maybe if he apologizes to Orton now he’ll forgive him.

J.R.: Shut up, King.


“Metalingus” hits to momentous heat. The WWE Champion Edge and the Rated R Army come down to the ring.


Lilian: The following contest is a divas tag team match and it is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by Shelton Benjamin, Chris Masters, the Intercontinental Champion Johnny Nitro and the WWE Champion Edge…..LITA AND MELINA!


J.R.: I know you’re wondering why every member of The Rated R Army is out here. After this match is over, the main event tag team lumberjack match is going to happen. D-Generation X vs. Umaga and Abyss.

King: Trish is in trouble. Think about it J.R.. Every member of Melina’s team is out here and Trish is teaming up with a partner that she can’t stand.



“Time To Rock and Roll” hits to a good ovation. Trish Stratus walks down the entrance ramp.


Lilian: And their opponents, introducing first, from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, TRISH STRATUS!


J.R.: Both Trish and Melina want a shot at Mickie James’ Women’s Championship. This match could go a long way in determining who gets the shot at the Women’s Champion.


“Mickie” hits to a very loud mixed reaction. Probably 50/50. The WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James makes her way down to the ring very excitedly, jumping up and down.


Lilian: And her tag team partner, from Richmond, Virginia, she is the WWE Women’s Champion, MICKIE JAMES!


J.R.: Mickie James is a damn psycho and I don’t think she can be trusted to truly be a tag team partner to Trish.



Match #4
Mickie James & Trish Stratus vs. Melina & Lita


The Women’s Champion Mickie James and Melina start the match off. Mickie immediately locks up with Melina and performs a “go behind”. Mickie attempts a German suplex but Melina blocks it and powers Mickie backwards into her corner. Melina turns around and tags in the more experienced, Lita. Lita comes in and hits Mickie with a couple of stomps in the corner. She then pulls the Women’s Champion out of the corner and shoots her off the ropes. Lita gets set early and Mickie makes her pay by wrapping her arm around her neck and planting her with a DDT. Mickie lifts Lita up and applies a front-face lock and drags Lita to her corner. Mickie extends her hand to Trish. Trish hesitates but eventually tags into the match. The audience pops as Mickie exits and Trish enters. Trish enters the ring and immediately nails Lita with hard forearms. Mickie jumps down off of the apron and walks over to ringside. Mickie grabs her title from ringside and heads up the ramp. Edge and The Rated R Army begin to laugh as Trish has a shocked look on her face.


J.R.: What the hell is this?

King: You knew it was gonna happen sooner or later.

J.R.: Mickie James is taking her Women’s Title and is getting the hell out of here.



Mickie continues to walk up the ramp as Trish yells at her from in the ring. Trish turns around and gets caught with a kick to the stomach by Lita. Lita then plants her with a hard DDT. Lita drags Trish’s limp body towards the corner and climbs to the top turnbuckle. Lita flies off and finishes Trish off with a moonsault. Lita thinks about going for the cover but instead tags in Melina. Melina enters the ring and then covers Trish.


One………….

Two………………

Three!!!


(WINNER: Melina and Lita at 6:45)


King: Melina won it! What a great competitor she is!

J.R.: Cut it King! Mickie abandoned Trish here tonight and on top of that Lita did all of the work. Now what the hell is going on?!



The WWE Champion Edge and The Rated R Army enter the ring. Edge demands that Masters and Benjamin go over and lift Trish up. Edge then gets set in the corner, setting up his Spear.


J.R.: DON’T DO THIS!

King: Even I think this is over the line! Come on Edge!



Before Edge can charge ahead…..Rob Van Dam, Carlito and Joey Mercury sprint towards the ring. Edge rolls to the outside as do Melina and Lita. RVD, Mercury and Carlito brawl with Masters, Nitro and Benjamin. Eventually the popular faces gain the upper hand. Carlito clotheslines Masters over the top rope at the same time that Mercury clotheslines Benjamin over. Nitro is trapped in the ring as Van Dam, Mercury and Benjamin surround the Intercontinental Champion. Mercury drills Nitro with a hard right hand. Carlito then grabs Nitro by the shoulders, jumps up and drills him with a back cracker. The audience cheers wildly as The Rated R Army looks pissed off from ringside. Van Dam climbs to the top turnbuckle and looks at the fans. The audience cheers wildly as Van Dam leaps up off the top and drills him with the Five Star Frog Splash. The fans go crazy as Van Dam, Mercury and Carlito stand tall in the ring as Edge and company look P.O.ed at ringside.


J.R.: YES! YES! Ahhhh NO!


Vince McMahon appears on the titantron.


McMahon: Very impressive. Carlito, Mercury and Rob Van Dam, I’m going to have to ask you to leave the ring because coming up next is the main event. And since the three of you arent lumberjacks, you have to leave. And if I see any of the three of you come out here during the match and attempt to attack The Rated R Army, you will be fired on the spot. Thank You.


The audience boos wildly as Edge gets a huge grin on his face,


King: Cat got your tongue J.R.? Can’t speak?

J.R.: Abyss and Umaga vs. Triple H and Shawn Michaels in a lumberjack match is next.

King: The destruction of DX! NEXT!



---Commercial Break---


J.R.: Ladies and gentlemen, just announced for SummerSlam, Mickie James defends her WWE Women's Championship against Trish Stratus and Melina on August 20.


“Down In The Catacombs” blasts over the loudspeaker to a decent amount of heat. Abyss (w/ Father James Mitchell) makes his way down to the ring.


Lilian: The following match is the main event and it is a tag team lumberjack match scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, accompanied to the ring Jim Mitchell, from Parts Unknown, weighing in at 350 pounds, ABYSS!


J.R.: This huge S.O.B. took out Kane and put him out of action and now….

King: And now Vince McMahon wants him to do the same thing to Triple H and Shawn Michaels.



“Samoa” hits to more decent heat. Umaga walks down the entrance ramp with Armando Alejandro Estrada by his side.


Lilian: And his tag team partner, accompanied by Armando Alejandro Estrada, from the Isle of Samoa, weighing in at 340 pounds, UMAGA!


J.R.: This is ridiculous King. Lets recap. DX is having communication problems. Edge and his Rated R Army are surrounding ringside. Carlito, Rob Van Dam and Joey Mercury have been banned from ringside. DX is gonna be in the ring with two monsters who are WELL over 300 pounds and DX have a WWE Title match on August 20.

King: Check.

J.R.: Thanks for the insight.



“Sexy Boy” hits to a tremendous ovation. Shawn Michaels cautiously walks towards the ring.

Lilian: And their opponents, introducing first, from San Antonio, Texas, weighing in at 225 pounds, “The Heartbreak Kid” SHAWN MICHAELS!


King: Ha! Ha! What’s wrong with this picture J.R.? What just happened that spells the end for DX?

J.R.: Each member of DX is gonna have their own separate entrance.

King: You damn right! This is it for them! Their huge egos have finally gotten the best of them!



“The Game” hits to a thunderous ovation, slightly louder than the one for Michaels. Triple H skips his entrance and sprints towards the ring. HHH slides into the ring and the match is on.


Match #5
Abyss & Umaga vs. Triple H & Shawn Michaels
Lumberjack Match


HHH and Michaels immediately begin to swing away on the two monsters. HHH nails Umaga with several hard right handed shots and then shoots The Samoan Bulldozer off the ropes. Umaga comes back and runs Hunter over with a clothesline. Abyss knees Michaels in the gut and then flings him over the top rope. Edge and his Army immediately go to work stomping away on HBK. Back in the ring, Umaga drops a huge splash on The Game. Umaga with the cover.


One……………….

Two………………..

NO!!!


Helmsley kicks out. Umaga shoots HHH off of the ropes at the same time that Edge throws Michaels back into the ring. HHH comes back off the ropes and catches Umaga with a knee smash. HHH then shoots off the ropes and runs over Umaga with a clothesline. HHH then mounts Umaga and begins to wail away on The Samoan with hard right hands. Abyss enters the ring, grabs HHH by the hair and flings him over the top rope. Edge and his army begin to stomp away on HHH like piranha. They then throw Hunter back in the ring.

Abyss gets tagged in by Umaga and the two huge monsters begin to stomp away on Hunter. HBK makes it back to his feet and sees the beating that HHH is getting. Michaels thinks about helping but waves at Hunter and leaves the ring.


J.R.: NO! DAMN IT! Michaels is leaving Triple H to get his ass kicked!

King: DX is dead.



The fans begin an HBK chant as Michaels heads up the ramp. Michaels turns back towards the ring and looks at the beating that Hunter is getting. Michaels begins to head back up the ramp but can’t. HBK sprints back towards the ring, which gets the loudest pop of the night. Michaels begins to wail away on Umaga as the fans go crazy. Umaga hits Michaels with a kick to the gut and then shoots The Showstopper off of the ropes. HBK comes back and hits a flying forearm to the face of Umaga. Michaels nips up and goes after Abyss. Michaels throws right hands at The Monster and then shoots off of the ropes. HBK comes back but Abyss grabs him and plants him with The BLACK HOLE SLAM! HHH gets back to his feet and immediately goes after Umaga & Abyss. Umaga grabs Hunter by the throat and hits The Samoan Spike. Abyss then lifts HHH up and shoots him off the ropes. HHH comes back and gets planted with a BLACK HOLE SLAM! Abyss covers HHH.


One……………..

Two…………………

THREE!!!


(WINNERS: Abyss & Umaga at 11:12)


Mitchell and Estrada lead Abyss and Umaga to the backstage area. After a couple of more seconds Triple H and Shawn Michaels both make it to their feet. The two DX members look at each other. Michaels extends his hand. HHH thinks about it and then shakes Michaels’ hand as the crowd erupts.


J.R.: DX is back! YES!

King: That may be true but I think they forgot something.

J.R.: Oh crap!



The Rated R Army enters the ring and immediately attack DX. DX tries to fight back but there are too many of them. Edge’s army begins to decimate DX as Edge, Lita and Melina look on from ringside. Carlito, Rob Van Dam and Joey Mercury run back down to ringside and The Rated Army hops out of the ring and sprint toward the back. Van Dam and company give chase to the Army as Edge looks on pissed from ringside. Edge grabs his WWE Championship and slides into the ring. Edge takes a huge swing at Michaels but HBK ducks and drills Edge with SWEET CHIN MUSIC. Edge gets hit, spins around and gets kicked in the gut by Triple H. HHH sticks Edge in between his legs, hooks the arms and drills Edge with The PEDIGREE. HHH and HBK give Edge several DX crotch chops as the fans go crazy. Both Hunter and Michaels bend down and grab the WWE Championship at the same time. Hunter and Michaels look at each other with focused looks on their faces as each one realizes that the other wants the Title.


J.R.: My God! DX has survived tonight. They survived Umaga. They survived Abyss. They survived McMahon. They survived The Rated R Army. And they survived Edge. But will they survive each other? They both want the title but there can only be one WWE Champion! Good night everybody!


RAW goes off the air with both Triple H and Shawn Michaels staring a hole through the other while holding the WWE Championship.

----------------------------------------------------------

Matches Announced For SummerSlam, August 20

World Heavyweight Championship
Kurt Angle(C) vs. Batista


WWE Championship
Edge(C) vs. Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels


First Blood match
John Cena vs. Randy Orton


Women's Championship
Mickie James(C) vs. Trish Stratus vs. Melina
 
#184 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by ddmrko

Deadman_014's Raw Review

Orton vs Snitsky: Good match to open the show i like how the ref has to take Orton off Snitsky and Snitsky makes him pay for putting him in the corner basically. I liked Snitsky in this match and it was odvious it was a squash match for Orton and the ending was predictable as well. 7/10 good for a start match thast why its here but not a great or really good match.

Edge/Vince Promo: Good segment i liked how its not a lumberjack match its a lot though for just a main event as the tag team match could just be enough since its Abyss and Umaga you know but it sets up a good main event. 8/10

Charlie Haas vs Matt Striker: Not much i can say about this match i don't like Striker running around the ring but thats something he would do good to see Haas using his finishing submission to win though although I think Striker should of won. 7/10 Maybe this should of opened it has lower level superstars and Orton still deserves a higher slot in the card even against Snitsky.

Vince/Trish Promo: This was another good promo but at the end you got one thing off as u said get out of my office he would say get the hell out of my office not big it was a good short segment its 2 short to give it an amazing rating but its the best so far. 8.5/10

Flair promo: I loved this its pure gold man nothing is off in that the woo's are on time the feud is set up like the WWE could be different but that doesn't take away from this segment. I loved it completely Flair was awesome in this 9.5/10

Cena vs Ken: I didn't like that Doane was facing Cena so I don't have many comments on this match. I didn't like the booking even though the length was decent, The ending was decent it could of been better like Orton drilling Cena with an RKO to have a DQ win for Cena. 6.5/10

Women's Tag: I don't like Women's Division for reviewing so some short comments. I liked how Mickie left Trish high and dry and it was a decent match yet though very predictable like all the others. 7.5/10

R Rated Army/Faces segment: Good segment here I think that its good how the faces overcame the R Rated Army i am really in love with the storylines man besides some of the booking. 9/10 really good segment loved Vince in the end hehe.

Main Event: Good match i thought booking wise, I liked Umaga starting off strong with a pinfall attempt. I am very much liking this so far as the knee smash on Umaga by the Game then Abyss sending HHH to the outside to get his ass stomped all over. I think this could of been longer but i liked how DX lost and Abyss looked very good in the end. Not predictable ending but very predictable aftermath very good the best match of the night like it should be. 8.5/10

Length: 7/10 could of been longer but I just like longer shows it was ok tho in length.

Booking/Matchs: 6.5/10 I didn't like much of the booking half of it i didn't like but i thought the main event made up for that but still didn't get a stella rating.

Grammer: 10/10 Everyone almost gets this unless there are huge flaws from me as i am not good at spotting grammer unless i go look up every word to the exact hehe.

Entertainment: 8.5/10 None the less with all else the entertainment was good
i think it was very entertaining and really makes me want to read SummerSlam.

Overall: 8/10 Good show man not your best but its good i expected better matchs booked and more longer stuff but it didn't disappoint me still didn't disappoint me great show.
 
#187 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by ddmrko

Raw Review

Randy Orton vs. Snitsky:
As expected Orton picks up a reletiely easy win and is looking good heading into Summerslam.

Edge/McMahon Promo: Good promo, both men were in charcter here mate, and the main event should be fantastic!

Charlie Hass vs. Matt Striker: Another decent-solid match, with Hass forcing Striker to tap to his deadly submission manouver!

McMahon/Trish Segment:
A pretty short segment, which was rushed IMO. Still, it got it's point across well.

Ric Flair Promo: This was great, good stuff mate and a great way to hype Summerslam!

John Cena vs. Ken Doane: Pretty good matchup here, with Orton interfering to give Cena the DQ win.

Rated R Army vs. Trish and Mickie: Great womens match, I don't really like them but this was fantastic. Mickie turns on Trish, and it looks like we will see yet another feud between these two.Aftermath was great, I loved the huge brawl!

Main Event: Hints of a DX breakup are everywhere and I feel that someone will turn on the other at Summerslam! Great main event, MOTN!

Overall: Solid show mate, a good read 8/10
 
#190 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by ddmrko

Raw Review

Decent match and great way to put Orton over by having him completley destroy the monster Snitzky. Great way to build up their first blood match with having Orton bloody Snitzky and he has got to be the favourite for their upcoming match.

Good segment and the tag team lumberjack match should be good, with DX having to go through two monsters.

Good to see you using Haas good unlike the WWE and he gets the win over Stryker thanks to the Haas of Pain and he would be a good addition to the IC Title division.

Great Flair promo here wanting Foley in a match , and it should be some type of Hardcore Match which will be good. Flair was well in character.

Cena wins via DQ and Orton bloodies him up again and now definatley has to be the favourite for the first blood match, and seeing Cena will be the underdog i see him coming out the winner.

Melina and Lita pick up the victory thanks to Mickie walking out on Trish. Nice aftermath with Edge about to spear Trish only for RVD, Carlito and Mercury to make the save.

More hints of a DX breakup, and leads to a loss against Umaga and Abyss. DX quickly reunite afterwards cleaning house, but it is pretty obvious that they will split sometime soon, most likely at Summerslam.

Overall rating: 83/100
 
#243 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by ddmrko

Raw preview looks great mate, can't wait for the show. It will be interesting to see who Taker's partner is, I have a funny feeling it might be Kane!
 
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#334 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by ddmrko

HBKicon's Summerslam Predictions Part 1:

Kurt Angle vs. Batista: ANgle needs this win. This will be a pefect fit to the Batista heel turn that looks so promosing here in this BTB. Week after week, to me it seemed as though Batista is set to turn somehow. Losing this match would definatly give Batista that "final straw" to turn on the fans. Either way this match will be average and maybe great. I mean Kurt Angle is in it but then again...so is Batista. My guess is Kurt retains the gold.

King Booker, Finlay, Regal vs. Undertaker, Lashley, Mystery: First off, I love your ida with the mystery guy here. It leaves room for prediction. My guess is that Steve Austin or Kane will show up at Summerslam. Normally, most bookers will book it so that the mystery guy returns and they win the match. Here, I think differently. My guess ia King Booker, Finlay and Regal because you will either go with Undertaker/Lashley turning on the MYstery guy or a typical heel win, continuing the fued either between the six men or Booker and the Mystery guy. Personally, this match will be a surprise to me and my gues is Booker, Finlay and Regal leave SS with a win!
 
#335 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by ddmrko

I like the way HBKicon did his predictions, so I'll do the same.

Kurt Angle vs. Batista- I think Batista will win and much like HBKicon I predict that their will be a heel turn, Angle's. Kurt has worked his ass off trying to prove that he is the true World Champion. So I predict when Batista wins the match (which I predict that he will), Angle will snap and turn heel. This will probably be a good match as I can't see you writing a bad one involving Angle.
Finish: Batista uses the Batista Bomb to put Angle away in 15 minutes.


King Booker, Finlay, Regal vs. Undertaker, Lashley, Mystery: I think its Captain Charisma. Christian and company will defeat Booker and his Court then Christian and Booker will continue their feud. As for Taker, Lashley, Finlay and Regal, I think they will move onto feuds with different people.
Finish: Christian pins Regal in 10 minutes after the Unprettier.
 
#336 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by ddmrko

Just a comment on Raw, and the main event feud, which I absolutely love, and is one of the best feuds around at the moment. Cant wait for the triple threat match, as it has been booked brilliantly

Solid promo from Heyman to start the show, hyping up Show for all the things he has done to Matt and Rey. Matt comes out, and him and Rey take down the Big Show, and get the advantage on him. Good stuff here, and it will be interesting to see what happens at SS

Sabin shocks Helms and wins the Cruiserweight title, although he had been making a bit of an impact in the last few weeks. Shame to see Helms drop the belt, but I have a feeling that this feud isn’t over just yet

Good promo from King Booker, although he was perhaps a bit too ‘street’ at times. I have no idea who the mystery man is going to be at the moment, but this looks like being a good 6 man tag match

Hardy to try and convince Rey to let him wrestle the Big Show instead it looks like, and I cant see Rey giving up his spot. Maybe a handicap match though?

Pit bulls get the win in the tag match due to JBL and Kennedy costing the Hooligans the match, who then get the hell beaten out of them afterwards. I see them taking the title though, as I don’t think JBL and Kennedy fit as a tag team, nor in the tag division, and a ladder match isn’t there thing

Short and sweet batista promo which gets his point over. He takes the title at SS I feel

Match ends in a no contest when Henry comes out to try and soften up Benoit ahead of their SS match. Batista then drills Angle with the spinebuster, and so far, it has been all Batista’s night, and he isn’t too far away from the title

Regal gets the win over Lashley, but only because of Finley and his sheilagh. Taker then comes out though, and cleans house, only for a very confusing video to be played. I have no idea who the mystery man is, but can only guess at Kane, but I’m not too sure about that at all

Angle beats Henry in the main event, which he had to do, although getting some help from benoit maybe makes him look slightly weak .Henry then starts to dominate afterwards, but Batista comes out and takes him down, only for Angle to get the advantage over Batista. Good end to the show, with Angle standing tall, which sets up the title match well

Summerslam Predictions

World Heavyweight Championship
Kurt Angle© vs. Batista

WWE Championship
No Disqualification; Triple Threat Match
Edge© vs. Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels

Hardcore Match
Cactus Jack vs. Ric Flair

First Blood Match
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

Six Man Tag Team Match
King Booker, Finlay & William Regal vs. Undertaker, Bobby Lashley & ?????

WWE Tag Team Championship
Ladder Match
JBL© & Mr. Kennedy© vs. The Hooligans

Grudge Match
Chris Benoit vs. Mark Henry

Singles Match
The Big Show vs. Rey Mysterio

Women’s Championship
Triple Threat Match
Mickie James© vs. Trish Stratus vs. Melina

Six Man Tag Team Match
Rob Van Dam, Carlito & Joey Mercury vs. The Rated R Army

Wild Card questions

1) Who will team up with The Undertaker and Bobby Lashley in the Main Event? Kane

2)Will we see one of the members of D-Generation X turn on the other? Yes

3) Biggest Spot of the night? Something in the ladder match - maybe a shooting star press off a ladder through a table

4) Will we see a title change hands? If so how many? Yes and 2

5) Will Rey Mysterio allow Matt Hardy to take his sopt in his match with The Big Show? No
 
#681 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by DDMac

Renegade™ Reviews No Mercy

Opening video was very good. You are quite good at producing these

London/Kendrick vs Shelton/Helms
Looks like we are gonna start the show with a potential show stealer with these four in the ring. Was a good, quick paced encounter and Shelton & Helms really did work well together, makes me wonder if maybe you're gonna keep them as a team together on SD! The ending was done at a frantic pace, and a nice win for the champs to retain with a rollup after evading the Shining Wizard. ***1/4

Batista is here, I don't think it'll be his night, as I hate seeing him as champ and I think you'll have Angle hold the strap until SS

Kane vs Lashley
Meh I'm not gonna expect much from this, even though it's between two fairly good workers for their size. Found it kinda hard to get into, Kane went for the Chokeslam mighty early. Both men show their toughness and kick out of some match winners normally, and then Lashley romps home with a trifecta of power moves and secures the victory. Nothing fancy, just a bogged down big man match. ***

Desension in the ranks of the King's Court? Finlay could leave soonish as he doesn't really fit with the others

Matt Hardy vs Rey
I'm pulling for Hardy, just because I dislike Rey on a large scale. This was alot better than the match it preceeded, and Hardy was on fire but he just couldn't finish Rey off, as Mysterio kept alive and kicking. He even manages to kick out despite Hardy hooking the tights. Hardy batters Rey with the chair and then Chavo tries to make the save only to get a chair shot too. He's DQ'd! Eh, thought something better might come from this IMO, still for what it was, decent match. ***

Hardy continues the assault on Rey, beating him senseless with the chair. Rey might be out for a few weeks

Angle talking it up, he'll retain, should be a brutal matchup to say the least

Chris Daniels vs Sabin
Not too keen on two TNA cruisers in this thread hogging all the CW spotlight. Turned out into a very good cruiserweight match with both men going all out for the win, surprised to see Sabin kick out of the Last Rites and Daniels out of the Running Powerbomb, seeing as how both can easily be match winners. Allison Danger? Eh, who the fuck? She distracts Sabin and Daniels turns heel with a low blow and then nails the Angels Wings for the win. It seems like Danger could be siding with Daniels after this. ***1/4

LMAO at the last line from Hunter, gold. Seems like Steph is already asserting her heel persona around the place

HHH vs Finlay
Much better match here, the physicallity was awesome and it really was a brawl mixed with some good wrestling. Finlay outsmarting the ref after losing the chair and attacking Trips with the Shillelagh was genious, and then isolating the knee was a good move. Triple H even got back dropped through the announcer's table and managed to keep going, Finlay gets the Celtic Cross but The Game kicked out! Wow, that makes Finlay's finisher look a tad weak but makes Trips look even stronger. Uh-oh, ref is flattened accidentally by Triple H. Finlay takes full advantage and low blows HHH, but the ref is gone as Triple H hits the Pedigree! Ref still down, and Finlay hits Trips with the Shillelagh! What a steal for Finlay here, big win for the Irishman. ***3/4

The Rock going through the motions until Trips walks in front of him! The tension between these two is building, wonder why The Game smiled after Rock walked off, is he going to screw The Rock over? Hmm...

The Rock vs Booker T
Another good match, following the trend of the previous one. Booker was really taking it to The Rock early on which was surprising, but Rock got back into it only to get the Scissors Kick! Rock kicks out, then Booker kicks out of the Rock Bottom! Don't believe that, how. People's Elbow, and Sharmell takes out the ref. Regal attempts to help beat on The Rock but gets a Rock Bottom! Now Finlay is coming with his Shillelagh, but here comes The Game with his Sledgehammer! O boy, he's gonna either intenionally or un-intentionally drill The Rock with it. NO! He hits Booker, thank God. Rock scores with a second Peeps Elbow and wins it! ***3/4

Daniels is not a popular man backstage and nor he should be, the way he outsmarted everyone in the locker room with the help of Allison Danger (WTF?)

Kennedy vs Cena
Man it's almost as bad as when Cena went to ONS II, the fans are booing the shit outta him. Cena is all over Kennedy here, and the crowd are not happy about it. Man this is turning out into a better and better match, Meatpacker can't put Cena away who is still getting booed heavily. It's almost relentless lol. Kennedy hits Cena with an FU! What an insult. Kennedy however misses the Kenton, what a waste, he should've covered Cena. STFU! No, amazingly Kennedy got to the ropes, I thought he was gonna tap out....tap out....lol. Eh Kamikaze always looks weak when done, not surprised to see Cena kick out of that. And from no where, after being pretty much dominated, Cena pulls out a Superman performance with an FU to put Kennedy down. ***3/4

Cena shows no sportsmanship for Kennedy, which was a shock to see Kennedy actually extend his hand in the first place

Michael Buffer doing the intro's? Can't see that in the WWE really, feels so WCWish

Angle vs Batista
Angle getting in Batista's head right from the off, slapping him twice! What a way to piss him off. Lots of "Fuck" coming from the mouth of Big Dave early on, keeping with his brash new Animalistic personality. Didn't expect Angle to be so dominant early on, but Batista rolls through the Ankle Lock and we are going outside, which normally begins the spots. Belly to Belly against the barricade would kill. ANGLE GOES OFF THE STAGE! Holy crap that was quick, this one could be over already! Steph orders the match to continue. Man this doesn't look good for Angle as Batista destroys the backstage security to get to him. Batista stopped the count? Not enough punishment done yet it seems. Angle begins to fight back, a couple of Germans before he's stopped dead in his tracks with another low blow! The Angle Slam can't put the Champ away, gotta wonder if the table will come into play soon. Angle goes nuts busting Batista open, can he produce a big comeback here and win it? SPINEBUSTER THROUGH THE TABLE! Good god that's nasty, but Angle kicked out! Wow, what a fighting champion. Here come the steel steps and Angle counters, ANKLE LOCK! How did Batista get the ropes? Amazing strength from the Animal. Angle hits a Belly to Belly off the top, but still it doesn't settle it! OMG! Batista Bomb on the steps! Goodnight Kurt, new champion. ****1/4

Overall, quality PPV Mac. The main event was fucking awesome and the three before it where also great. Tag match was really good, Kane/Lashley was a bore however. All the promos were good. 89/100
 
#696 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by DDMac

SmackDown; October 13, 2006; Green Bay, Wisconsin



Highlight video for No Mercy, showing us all the happenings but mainly focusing on the World Heavyweight Title match, in which Batista defeated Kurt Angle.

Opening Video

Pyro


Joey Styles: For the third night in a row, the WWE is here in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The arena is sold out for Friday Night SmackDown!. Hello everyone, I’m Joey Styles, alongside my broadcast partner Tazz and we are only five days removed from the humongous No Mercy pay per view!!

Tazz: And what a pay per view it was Styles. We saw the undefeated streak of Mr. Kennedy ended. The Rock and Triple H were in action. We saw the Cruiserweight and United States Championship both change hands. But more importantly than all that, more importantly than everything that happened last night, we crowned a NEW World Heavyweight Champion.

Joey Styles: “The Animal” Batista defeated Kurt Angle, ending Kurt’s nine month reign in what was an instant classic in my opinion. The brutality in that match was unheard of and whether you want to admit it or not, Batista is the new World Heavyweight Champion, even if the ending was a little controversial.

Tazz: Definitely big time news there and big props to both Angle and Batista for a great match last Sunday but tonight is a new night. And we have a huge main event here tonight, when Finlay, Kurt Angle and The Rock do battle for the #1 contendership. I’m ready. You’re ready. Green Bay is ready. Lets get this show on the road!


***Mr. Kennedy … Kennedy*** hits to a thunderous ovation as Ken Kennedy makes his way down to the ring, dressed in sweat pants and no shirt. The hometown crowd continues to go wild for Kennedy as he signals for them to cut the music and grabs a microphone from ringside. An incredible “KENNEDY” chant starts up as he prepares to speak, seemingly a bit down from last Sunday’s result.

Mr. Kennedy: Y’know usually … (takes a breath) … usually, I would come out here, wait for my microphone to lower from the heavens and I’d talk about the greatness that is Mr. Kennedy.

Incredibly loud pop.

Mr. Kennedy:
But I’m not gonna do that tonight. You see I’m not gonna do that because last Sunday on pay per view, in this very arena, in front of my hometown fans …

Another great pop as KK takes a deep breath.

Mr. Kennedy:
… in front of my hometown fans, Green Bay, Wisconsin … I lost.

Crowd boos.

Mr. Kennedy: I lost. I lost to John Cena … I lost the most important match of my career … I lost my undefeated streak. Hell, I even lost a bit of my self confidence.

Crowd responds with a bit of shock at the humbleness of their arrogant hometown hero.

Mr. Kennedy: Last Sunday, at No Mercy, John Cena was the better man, and I’m man enough to admit that. I gave him everything I had. I took everything he had. We went at it for twenty minutes … but in the end it only takes three seconds. And once it came down to crunch time, once it came down to the fourth quarter, the ninth inning, whatever cliché you wanna use … my shoulders were on the mat for three.

Some fans applaud his humility but most boo, hating Cena.

Mr. Kennedy: Oh, but no, no, no, no, no, no, NO, make NO mistake about it, the next time we get into this ring, the next time John Cena steps into the ring with yours truly, the next time we go man up, face to face, its gonna be a very different result!!

The crowd begin to get to their feet hyped at the intensity of Kennedy.

Mr. Kennedy: Cena, tonight I was man enough to admit you were the better man at No Mercy. Tonight, I was man enough to admit you beat me. Are you man enough to give me an opportunity to prove I’m the better man … TONIGHT!?

Momentous ovation for the possibility of Cena-Kennedy II tonight.

Mr. Kennedy: That’s right John, that’s what I want. One more time, you give me a shot to prove I’m better than you. You give me a shot to prove that I’m as good as I say I am. Me and you, in a rematch, right here tonight!! John Cena, will you go one on one with MMIISSTTERR KKENNNNNEEDDYYY … KKEEENN …

***My Time Is Now*** hits to tremendous heat from the very partisan Green Bay crowd. John Cena makes his way down to the ring, all smiles, dressed in his typical ‘street gear’. He enters the ring and grabs a microphone from ringside. The crowd starts a “Cena sucks” chant as Cena simply smirks

John Cena: That’s as loud as you can get?

Crowd erupts into even more heat for the ‘controversial’ John Cena.

John Cena: (scoffs) Anyway, last Sunday night, me and you, we had one hell of a battle Kennedy but facts are facts and the fact is, I won.

More heat for Cena as he simply smirks, apparently enjoying this reaction.

John Cena:
But, uh, let me get this straight, after everything we went through at No Mercy, after the FUs, Kenton Bombs, STFUs, you wanna go at it one more time?!

Great pop as Kennedy nods and mouths ‘yeah’.

John Cena: Well, you know me, IF YOU WANT SOME … COME GET SOME!!

Phenomenal ovation as the match is set for tonight.

John Cena: That’s right, Mr. Kennedy, John Cena, right here ton …

Cena stops mid-sentence. Kennedy asks what the problem is.

John Cena: Wait a minute. Wait a minute. I gotta think this over. Let me get this straight. I beat you, clean in the middle of this ring, these people boo the hell out of me in the process and now I’m supposed to give you and these people what ya’ll want?

Crowd cheers and manage to pull together a collective “yes”.

John Cena:
I’m supposed to just give you a rematch just because you want it?

Kennedy nods.

John Cena: Well, give me a second to think about it … Hell no.

Tremendous heat as KK’s smile turns into a look of anger.

John Cena: You had your shot and you blew it and you damn sure aren’t getting a rematch in front of your hometown crowd here tonight.

More heat for Cena and one fan goes so far as to throw an object into the ring.

John Cena: Besides, I got more important things on my mind. I got the end all, be all of Sports Entertainment on my mind. Because come one way or another, I’m gonna get me a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship. It may not be tonight, may not be next week, hell it may not be this year, but John Cena is gettin’ his! WORD - LIFE!

Kennedy fumes as Cena crushes his hopes of a rematch. The crowd is now furious that they will not see the two young superstars go at it once more.

John Cena: So if ya’ll wanna see Cena - Kennedy one more time, I suggest you catch it on the replay. AH-HAH!

Cena pops his collar, drops the mic and quickly leaves the ring, amidst some astonishing heat from the Green Bay audience as ***My Time Is Now*** hits once more. Kennedy yells for Cena to get his ass back into the ring but its no dice as Cena heads through the curtain and towards the back. Styles and Tazz put over Cena’s ‘strange’ behavior as we cut to a break.


[Commercial Break]


We return from the break with Mike “The Miz” Mizanin already in the ring and we head to the ringside area after Tony Chimel makes the introduction.

Joey Styles: Welcome back to Friday Night SmackDown! everyone and we have a huge main event for you here tonight. Due to former World Champion, Kurt Angle, not having a rematch clause in his contract, tonight we will have a #1 contender’s match.

Tazz: Triple threat match, “The Wrestling Machine” Kurt Angle, “The Fighting Irishman” Finlay and … “The People’s Champion” The Rock go at it in our HUGE main event, with the winner getting a shot at new World Heavyweight Champion, Batista.

Joey Styles: That’s later on tonight but up next, our NEW United States Champion, the “Real Deal” Bobby Lashley is in action.

***Soldier*** hits to a nice ovation as the new U.S. Champion, Bobby Lashley, makes his way down to the ring, focused on his match up, title strapped around his waist. He sets off his huge pyro and continues on his way to the ring for his non-title match.

Joey Styles: Well, the first title change of No Mercy took place when Bobby Lashley defeated Kane and became the new United States Champion.

Tazz: What a hard hitting match that was! It took two spears, several suplexes and the Dominator but Lashley finally managed to beat The Big Red Machine.


Match #1 - Non-Title Match

Bobby Lashley vs. The Miz
The match is merely a vehicle for Lashley to show off his impressive offense, strength, agility and pick up another win. He hits Miz with most of his signature moves, getting a rise out of the crowd with a delayed vertical suplex. Miz manages to get in the teeniest amount of offense but he’s soon finished off with Lashley, hitting him with the Spear and then dropping him with The Dominator to pick up the win.
Winner: Bobby Lashley at 3:45.

Lashley celebrates his victory, grabbing his U.S. Championship and leaping onto the turnbuckle, posing for the fans. He turns back around and … gets goozled!! KANE lifts Lashley up and gives him a nasty choke slam from hell!!! The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Kane stands over the fallen U.S. Champion and sets off his pyro, with all four turnbuckles exploding.


***Cut to the backstage area, into the locker room of The Rock***

Rocky is getting set up, setting his water bottle on the top of his locker and hanging up his jacket before Kristal Marshall comes walking in.

Kristal Marshall: Rock, Rock, a couple of questions?

Rock begins to speak, with his back to her.

The Rock: Whoa, Whoa, WHOA, you don’t just barge into The Rock’s locker room and start speaking introd …

Rock turns around.

The Rock: (Looking Kristal up and down) Haha, yeah. The Rock remembers you vaguely but for some reason, The Rock is drawing a bit of a blank. What is your name?

Kristal Marshall: I’m Kristal Marshall and …

The Rock: IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT YOUR NAME IS!!

Great pop in the background as The Rock lets out a smile.

The Rock: The Rock had to be do that. What do you wanna ask The Rock?

Kristal Marshall:
Rock, last night you beat King Booker in your return match to pay per view but you had a little bit of help from Triple H. Now you and “The Game” haven’t had a great relationship in the past, so why would he help you?

The Rock: The Rock has said this before and The Rock will say it again, The Rock didn’t need Triple H’s help to beat King Booker and The Rock didn’t want Triple H’s help against King Booker. Hell, The Rock doesn’t need anybody’s help to beat anybody. The Rock has gotten to where he is by himself and the people.

Nice pop.

The Rock: And The Rock will continue to lay the SmackDown on pieces of monkey crap, like King Booker, by himself.

Nice pop as Kristal gets ready to ask another question.

Kristal Marshall: Yeah, but why do you think Triple H did what he did?

Rock prepares to answer but doesn’t actually have one.

The Rock: Y’know what? That’s a good question. The Rock is interested in that his damn self.

Rock then exit’s the locker room as Kristal looks on surprised.


[Commercial Break]


We return from the break into a locker room with King Booker, Sir William Regal and Queen Sharmell.

King Booker: Sir William, Sharmell, my queen, last Sunday, did not go exactly as we had it planned. Last Sunday, at No Mercy, I was defeated by that PEASANT, The Rock!

Crowd pops in the background.

King Booker:
There is no way that I, King Bookah, should have been defeated by that rogue. The Rock is not in my class. The Rock is not on my level and The Rock is sure as hell not the king of the world!

Queen Sharmell attempts to comfort The Rock before he continues.

King Booker:
There’s only one person to blame for my lost to The Rock. There is only one man to blame for the travesty that occurred this Sunday. That man is not here at the present moment. That man is the weak link of this court. That man’s name is …

Finlay walks into the locker room.

King Booker: (surprised) FINLAY! Hey Finlay, I thought you were getting ready for your number one contender’s match?

Booker seems a bit nervous.

Finlay: Yeah, I’m done. I got what I need.

Shows the shillelagh.

Finlay:
So, what are you all talking about?

Booker, Sharmell and Regal look around at each other.

King Booker: Nothing important. Just the usual stuff.

Finlay nods, not thinking twice of it.

King Booker: Uh, Finlay we’re gonna get out of your way. Big match tonight, you probably want to prepare and get your head together. So me and my queen will leave you to your own devices. Lets go my queen.

Booker and Sharmell quickly leave the locker room, leaving Finlay and Regal to themselves.

William Regal: Dave, I just want to let you know that if there’s anyway I can help you prepare and be of service, I’m more than glad to help a great competitor of your stature and a man I consider a friend.

Regal gives a cheesy smile but Finlay seems unimpressed with his sucking up.

Finlay: Go … away.

Regal gulps and quickly takes off out of the locker room. Finlay smacks the shillelagh against his hand, focused on his huge number one contender’s match.


***Back to ringside***

***London Calling*** hits to a pretty nice ovation and the WWE Tag Team Champions, The Hooligans, run down to the ring at full speed, with Ashley Massaro trailing behind. Paul London and Brian Kendrick enter the ring and Tony Chimel makes the ring introduction.


Joey Styles: Coming off a successful title defense at No Mercy, Paul London and Brian Kendrick are ready for what should be a very exciting match here tonight. But a successful title defense, wasn’t the only important development to come out of the night. According to Helms’ agent, Gregory Helms suffered a severe injury last night which will put him out for some time.

Tazz: Shame. Helms and his partner, Shelton Benjamin, were really developing some chemistry together and came very close to winning the titles last Sunday. Hopefully, Helms can come back and be better than ever.

***Mexicools*** hits to a fairly decent pop and The Mexicools, Super Crazy and Psichosis, come to the ring on top of their ‘Juan Deere’s’. The two men enter the ring, hoping to make an impact in this next match up.

Joey Styles: The Mexicools hope to pick up a HUGE win over the WWE Tag Team Champions here tonight.

Tazz: Even though it’s a non-title match, a win over London and Kendrick would get the Mexicools right in the thick of the title hunt.


Match #2 - Non-Title Match

Paul London & Brian Kendrick (w/Ashley Massaro) vs. Super Crazy & Psichosis
Very fast paced match, with each team going at it full blast, attempting to impress the sold out audience. Neither face team shows any heel tendencies as the match up is based on pure competition. The match up picks up even more at the seven minute mark, with London and Kendrick hitting simultaneous planchas onto Crazy and Psichosis on the outside. London, the legal man, grabs his counterpart, Psichosis, rolling him in the ring, and going for the cover, but only managing to pick up a two count. He whips Psichosis off of the ropes and goes for a lariat but he ducks and catches London with a nice huracanrana. Both Kendrick and Crazy recover enough to make it onto the ring apron, just in time to receive the hot tag from their perspective partners. Both guys go at it, but Crazy eventually gains the advantage, hitting a drop kick and managing to pick up a two count, when London enters to break it up. Psichosis, too enters the ring and we now have all four men engaged in the ring.
The action breaks down as London hit’s the dropsault on Psichosis but turns around into a dropkick from Super Crazy, and now both London and Psichosis are on the outside of the ring! Crazy attempts to focus on Kendrick but “Spanky” meets him with a couple of hard forearms and goes for the Sliced Bread #2 but Crazy counters into a variation of a backdrop! He then climbs to the top turnbuckle and goes for a moonsault but Kendrick moves out of the way! He then grabs Crazy and hit’s the Sliced Bread #2. Psichosis jumps onto the apron but is yanked down by London and the two men begin to brawl.
The referee becomes distracted by the goings-on on the outside of the ring and doesn’t notice that Kendrick has Crazy pinned on the inside. SHELTON BENJAMIN slides into the ring and lifts Kendrick up. He hits him with a knee to the gut before hitting the T-Bone Suplex! He quickly grabs Crazy and drags him on top of Kendrick before rolling out of the ring. The referee turns around and makes the cover. 1 … 2 … 3!!
Winners: Super Crazy & Psichosis at 11:13.


Benjamin backs up the entrance ramp, smirking, proud of his handiwork. He mouths “payback is a bitch” into the camera, probably talking about the injury to his tag team partner at the No Mercy pay per view.


[Commercial Break]


We return from the break with a backstage shot of The Rock walking down a hallway. He stops at the door labeled ‘Triple H’ and walks in. “The Game” is sitting on a chair when Rock storms in.

Triple H: You … uh … you lost or something?

Hunter smirks at Rock, whom simply stares back.

The Rock:
No, no, The Rock’s not lost but The Rock’s gotta question. Why in the blue hell did you get involved in The Rock’s match at No Mercy?

Hunter acts shocked by Rock’s hostility.

Triple H: I see you’re having a bit of trouble Rock. The words you’re looking for are “thank you”. Try it with me now. “Thank you.”

Rock doesn’t seem too amused.

The Rock: You want The Rock to thank you for getting your ridiculously large nose in The Rock‘s business? You expect a ‘thank you’ from The Rock? Is that what you want? Is that what you think?

Hunter nods, not letting The Rock get a catchphrase in that easily.

The Rock: Let The Rock make something perfectly crystal clear to you. The Rock owes you nothing. The Rock didn’t ask you to get involved in his match and The Rock didn’t want you to get involved in his match but more importantly than all of that, more importantly than all else, The Rock doesn’t like you and The Rock doesn’t trust you.

Hunter smirks and stands, getting off of his chair.

Triple H: Rock, believe it or not, I was really excited when you came back.

Rock looks confused.

Triple H: (keeping a straight face) But now you treat me like this and you’re just being really mean and I’m not so sure I like you anymore. You know what, I don’t wanna be your friend anymore.

Rock looks like he’s about to blow, pissed at Hunter’s sarcasm. The Game smirks before continuing.

Triple H: Look Rock, if you’re looking for me to bow down at your feet like the rest of these jack-offs around here, just because you made a couple of ‘c’ movies, you got another thing coming. As hard as it may be for you to believe, the world doesn’t revolve around that huge head of yours.

Rock and Hunter get closer to one another.

Triple H: The fact is, I didn’t come out there for you. I went out there because Finlay screwed me in my match and I wanted some payback and when Finlay took off, I decided to do the next best thing and I drilled Booker right in the face with a sledgehammer!

Loud pop heard in the background.

Triple H: And now that I’m here, looking through those two dollar, ‘Ray Charles’ shades you have on…

Crowd ‘ooooo’s as Rock seems to be getting more upset by the moment.

Triple H: I can see you’re not mad because I helped you. You’re upset because without me out there, you would’ve gotten your ass kicked.

Rocky takes off his shades.

The Rock: Let The Rock inform you of something. You can think what you want. You can say what you want. But none of that changes the fact that last Sunday, The Rock won his match and last Sunday, you lost your match.

That apparently struck a nerve as Hunter’s smirk turns into his trademark scowl.

The Rock: Oh but forget about No Mercy. Tonight, The Rock has got a huge main event. Triple threat, Rock, Angle, Finlay. You do The Rock a favor. You stay out of The Rock’s way … or else, The Rock will take that sledgehammer, shine it up real nice, turn that sumbitch sideways, AND STICK IT STRAIGHT UP YOUR CANDY ASS!

Triple H is now the one whom doesn’t seem impressed.

The Rock: You see because tonight, The Rock’s gonna go out there and he’s gonna beat Finlay and The Rock is gonna beat Kurt Angle and then The Rock is gonna go on to whip Batista’s big gorilla ass and reclaim his spot as the top superstar in the WWE. Write it down, take a picture, after tonight, The Rock takes that first step in becoming the World Heavyweight Champion … again.

Rock gets damn near face to face with Triple H.

The Rock:
If ya smell … what The Rock … is cookin’.

Crowd pops as Rock turns around and prepares to leave.

Triple H: Oh Rock, before you go…

Rock turns around.

Triple H: Watch your back out there. You never know what could happen.

Rock and Triple H have an intense stare down before Rocky walks out. Hunter goes to a corner and grabs his sledgehammer!! He gives it a look and turns around, looking at the door.


***Back to ringside***

***Booyaka 619*** hits to a great pop. Rey Mysterio doesn’t spring from under the stage but instead, gingerly walks toward the ring with taped ribs after his attack at the hands of Matt Hardy, last Sunday.


Joey Styles: Rey Mysterio hoping to get back on the right track afte….

Tazz: WHAT THE HELL?!

MATT HARDY attacks Rey from behind, clubbing him in the back!! Mysterio takes a tumble down the entrance ramp but Hardy doesn’t go after him. He instead waits on the top of the ramp as Rey gets back up to his feet. Once Mysterio gets back up to a vertical base, Hardy gives him a smirk and walks towards the back. Rey gives chase and runs after Hardy.

The camera follows Mysterio as he is in pursuit of Hardy and walks through a backstage corridor looking for him … when Hardy blindsides him!!! Hardy stomps away on Mysterio for a bit before taking off, heading into the parking lot and heading into the passenger seat of a car before it speeds off. Chavo Guerrero checks on Rey as Mysterio gets back up to his feet, infuriated.



[Commercial Break]


We return from the break with the former World Heavyweight Champion, Kurt Angle, sitting on a chair, watching a tape of his title match from No Mercy against Batista. He keeps rewinding and playing the end of the match, getting angrier and angrier each and every time. He then takes the remote and slams it against the ground, before kicking the TV over, causing it to shatter. Angle fumes in anger and then storms out of his locker room. Back to ringside…


Joey Styles: …………….

Tazz: Would it be fair to say Angle is intense and focused on getting a shot to reclaim his World Heavyweight Title?

Joey Styles: … you could say that.


***Dilated Teens*** its to a ‘good’ amount of heat and the Cruiserweight Champion, “The Fallen Angel” Christopher Daniels makes his way onto the stage, accompanied to the ring by Allison Danger. Daniels carries his tainted title with pride as he enters the ring and does (*cough*) blesses Danger whom is on her knees as Chimel makes the introduction.

Joey Styles: Well, last Sunday at No Mercy, The Fallen Angel cheated to defeat Chris Sabin in a singles match to win the Cruiserweight Championship. The match was supposed to be a fatal four way but Jamie Noble and Kid Kash were taken out of the match due to injuries they sustained during our Sunday Night Heat pre-show. And though we don’t know it for a fact, we can pretty much assume that Daniels is responsible due to his fake concern for the two.

Tazz: That’s not fair Styles. Maybe he was really concerned for the two.

Joey Styles: What about that … woman saying Daniels had nothing to do with the attack and then … interfering in the match, later on in the night? Is that coincidence?

Tazz: No comment.

***Kid Kash*** hits and The Notorious K.I.D. makes his way onto the ring, receiving a bland reaction as he’s a not so over heel, getting ready to take on another heel. He rushes into the ring and immediately goes after Daniels.

Joey Styles: He got screwed out of his Cruiserweight Title match at No Mercy but he’s ready for it right now!

Tazz: Daniels didn’t even get a chance to take his robe off!


Match #3 - Cruiserweight Championship Match
Kid Kash vs. Christopher Daniels w/Allison Danger
The two cruisers go at it with each man getting a sustained period of offense, though Daniels manages to get a slight advantage towards the five minute mark. He hits Kash with a couple of elbows and then shooting him off of the ropes, catching him with a jumping calf kick when he comes back! He goes for a cover but only picks up a two, quickly lifting Kash back up to his feet. Daniels throws him into the corner and charges but Kash leaps over the top, landing behind the Cruiserweight Champion. The Fallen Angel attempts a back elbow but Kash ducks it and plants him with a Northern Light’s Suplex with a bridge!! 1... 2... NO!
Daniels barely kicks out, avoiding a new champion. Kash lifts him up to his feet and goes for the Dead Level brain buster, lifting Daniels up into a vertical suplex position, but The Fallen Angel counters, landing behind him! He kicks Kash in the gut and drops him with a Death Valley Driver!! He takes a second to recover before going for the Best Moonsault Ever … but Kash rolls out of the way, causing Daniels to crash and burn!!! The challenger decides to take advantage, climbing to the top turnbuckle and going for a moonsault of his own … but Daniels rolls out of the way, at the last possible moment! He gets up and sticks Kash between his legs and hits The Angel‘s Wings!!! Cover… 1... 2... 3!!!
Winner: … and STILL Cruiserweight Champion Christopher Daniels at 8:21.


Daniels retains the title and is proud of it, defeating a worthy opponent, cleanly nonetheless. He calls for his title and the referee does as told, handing him his title.

Joey Styles: Daniels retains the championship, defeating Kid Kash here tonight.

Tazz: Impressive to say the very least.s

Joey Styles: Coming up next, out HUGE main event! Triple threat match to crown a number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship, “The Fighting Irish Bastard” Finlay, former World Champion, the Olympic Gold Medalist, Kurt Angle and “The People’s Champion” The Rock! NEXT!


[Commercial Break]


RAW Rebound
- The footage actually runs quite a bit longer than it usually does, giving the SmackDown! audience quite a bit of the WWE Championship match that took place on Monday, pitting the champion Shawn Michaels against the challenger, “The Phenom” The Undertaker. They give us something to remember, putting on one of the best matches you will ever see on free television. The finish is shown with Michaels managing to kick out of a choke slam and Taker kicking out of Sweet Chin Music. Taker eventually goes for and hit’s the Tombstone!! We have a new champion possibly but Umaga interferes and breaks up the count, causing the disqualification!!! Umaga and The Undertaker begin to brawl, hitting each other with hard shots as they move up the ramp and towards the back. Michaels gets back up to vertical base inside of the ring, still a bit out of it, until … EDGE jumps over the barricade AND SPEARS HBK IN HALF!!! Edge taunts Michaels for a bit before grabbing a mic and announcing he’s back because his demands have been met.



In the office of the General Manager, Stephanie McMahon, Steph stares into the camera while sitting in her chair as she apparently has something important to say.

Stephanie McMahon: Before we begin the spectacular main event that I have set up for you here tonight, there are a couple of major announcements that I need to make.

The crowd is interested.

Stephanie McMahon: As a result of the events which have taken place tonight, next week we will get a No Mercy rematch, when Matt Hardy takes on Rey Mysterio!

Great pop.

Stephanie McMahon: Not only will we have that match next week, but we will also see Paul London & Brian Kendrick defend their WWE Tag Team Championship against The Mexicools, Super Crazy and Psichosis.

Decent pop.

Stephanie McMahon: And as some of you may know, in two weeks, we will see the WWE SmackDown! finally debut on its new network, FX with a THREE HOUR SPECIAL!

Mild pop.

Stephanie McMahon: And on that edition of Thursday Night SmackDown!, several RAW Superstars will be featured but no match will be more anticipated than the main event tag match that my father has given me the authority to set up.

Crowd boo the ‘mention’ of McMahon but are anticipating what she’ll say next.

Stephanie McMahon: On that SmackDown!, we will see SmackDown!’s King Booker team up with RAW’s “Rated R Superstar” Edge …

Boos for two of the top heel’s on the roster.

Stephanie McMahon: And they will face SmackDown!’s Triple H …

Great pop for “The Game”

Stephanie McMahon:
And RAW’s WWE Champion “THE HEARTBREAK KID” SHAWN MICHAELS!!!

Incredible pop as the fans go wild for the announcement.

Stephanie McMahon: That’s right. For one night only, on the three hour edition of SmackDown!, D-Generation X will reunite!!!

The phenomenal ovation continues as we cut back to ringside with Styles and Tazz going wild.


Joey Styles: Incredible news! DX reunites for one night only in two weeks!

Tazz: RAW’s Shawn Michaels. SmackDown!’s Triple H. That is one huge main event set for SmackDown!’s three hour debut on FX.

Joey Styles: But wait a minute, wait a minute. Mr. McMahon worked so hard to get those two separated, why would he want them to be reunited, even if it is only for one night?

Tazz: I don’t know! Stop trying to bring the moment down Styles and just enjoy it.


***I Walk Alone*** hits to a surprisingly good pop but it quickly degenerates into heat and then hatred as the NEW World Heavyweight Champion, “The Animal” Dave Batista makes his way onto the stage, dressed in an expensive suit, as always but has a huge bandage on his forehead due to his bloody encounter at No Mercy. He sets off his humongous pyro and slings his title belt onto his shoulder before continuing on down to the ring. Batista grabs a microphone from ringside and apparently has something to say before we get the main event underway.

Batista: WHO’S THE MAN!!??

Tremendous heat as Batista looks intensely at the crowd. The camera closes in on his huge bandage on his forehead.

Batista: I told every last one of you, nine months ago to this day, this day, that I would reclaim MY World Heavyweight Championship!

More boos for The Animal.

Batista: Last Sunday, at No Mercy, I kicked Kurt Angle’s ass up and down this whole damn arena! What pain did I suffer during the match? What injuries did I get? Pfft, a couple of stitches. What did I do to Kurt Angle? I tossed him off of the stage, I beat his ass with steel chairs, steel steps, I hit him with Demon Bombs, Spine busters, and I did exactly as I f*cking said I would!

The censors bleep out Batista’s coarse language but the ‘live’ crowd boos.

Batista: I beat Angle down, I beat Angle up and I proved that he was nothing more than what I have said from the beginning … a paper champion.

Batista continues to piss off this crowd as they begin an “Angle” chant.

Batista: He didn’t beat me for this title in January but I beat his ass to get this title back. So Kurt, if you have any f*cking brains, I suggest you throw this number one contender’s match, because if we were to get in this ring and go one on one again it’d be the same result.

More boos as Batista ‘brings it home‘.

Batista: It doesn’t matter who likes it or who doesn’t, I … am the World Heavyweight Champion. Get on the internet, bitch, piss, moan, say I can’t wrestle, bitch about my attitude, do whatever you want, but the fact is I’m the f*cking man around here and this belt proves it.

Batista holds the World Heavyweight Title over his head, being drowned in heat.

Joey Styles: Ladies and gentlemen, we apologize for the language being used by “The Animal” here tonight. Completely uncalled for…

Batista continues.

Batista: And I’m gonna remain the champion. It doesn’t matter if its Finlay, It doesn’t matter if its Rock, It doesn’t matter if its Kurt An…

***Medal*** hits to an incredible ovation as “The Wrestling Machine” Kurt Angle, with taped ribs, sprints down the entrance ramp at full speed, charging the ring. Batista quickly gets out and stands on the outside as Angle fumes on the outside, being held back by the referee. Several more refs come down to the ring and manage to restrain Angle. He screams “Your ass is mine!” as Batista calmly joins Styles and Tazz for commentary.

Joey Styles: Oh my Gawd! Batista is here! Angle is here! Finlay and Rock are coming! OUR HUGE MAIN EVENT IS NEXT!!

[Commercial Break]


We return from the break with Batista sitting beside Tazz and Michael Cole as this match up is almost ready to get started. Angle doesn’t take his eyes off Batista or his World Title, intensely staring at it as if he’s in a trance, focused on the title.

***My Name is Finlay…*** plays over the loud speaker and the fans give a mixed reaction, mostly geared towards boos, as Finlay makes his way down to the ring, shillelagh in hand. Angle finally takes his attention off of Batista and towards his opponent entering the ring.


Joey Styles: The Fighting Irishman, Finlay, looks ready and focused. He wants to become the next World Heavyweight Champion.

Tazz: Champ, whatta ya think about Finlay? I mean, how would you feel about putting your title on the line against Finlay?

Batista: Y’know Finlay is a great competitor but as far as putting my belt on the line against him, he’s not in my league. He’d get the same treatment Angle did.

Angle and Finlay get face to face apparently ready to go at it right now until…
***IF YA SMELL…*** hits to an fantastic ovation, easily one of the best of the night, as The Rock makes his way down to the ring. Rocky looks focused yet calm and confident as always, as he steps into the ring, climbs the turnbuckle and poses for the million and millions. He steps down and all three men move towards the center of the ring as this match is about underway.


Joey Styles: Here we go. Triple threat match, the winner receives a World Heavyweight Championship against the man to our left, “The Animal” Batista in the near future.

Tazz: Three of the top guys on SmackDown!, all goin’ at it for a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. Lets do this.


Main Event: Triple Threat Match: #1 Contender for World Heavyweight Title
The Rock vs. Kurt Angle vs. Finlay
All three men go on full tilt, putting on a great performance while trying to become the new number one contender. The beginning portion of the match involves the two incredibly popular faces, Kurt Angle and The Rock, teaming up against Finlay, attempting to wear him down. Eventually, Angle and Rock hit a double vertical suplex and Kurt goes for the cover. 1... 2... NO! Rocky pulls Angle off and the two men argue before all hell breaks loose. Angle and Rock exchange right hands until Rocky eventually gains the upper hand and shoots Kurt off the ropes. Angle comes back and throws a clothesline but Rock ducks and goes for THE ROCK BOTTOM … BUT ANGLE COUNTERS, fighting out of it, hitting him with hard back elbows!!! Kurt then goes for THE ANGLE SLAM … BUT ROCK COUNTERS, landing on his feet and planting Angle with a DDT! The cover. 1... 2... NO! Finlay breaks it up, saving the match up.
Finlay lifts Rock back up to his feet, attempting to go on the attack but “The Great One” has other plans, hitting Finlay with right hands and when Angle gets up, Kurt gets much of the same treatment, a plethora of hard rights from The Rock. He gives Finlay the spit punch, taking him down and then goes for one on Angle but Kurt ducks and hit’s a German suplex!! He keeps the hands clasped together and strings together a couple of more German suplexes, rocking The Rock!! Finlay gets back up and charges at Angle but Kurt catches him and takes him out with a Belly to Belly suplex!! He lifts Rock up to his feet and once again goes for THE ANGLE SLAM … BUT ROCK COUNTERS and shoves Angle off the ropes!! Kurt comes back and Rock hit’s the Spine buster! Rocky bounces off of the ropes and goes for THE PEOPLE’S ELBOW … but Finlay takes him out with a brutal clothesline, damn near decapitating him!
He lifts Rock up and tossed him over the top rope, out of the ring! Finlay then goes over to Angle and drops a jumping seated senton on his chest and then goes for a quick cover. 1... 2... NO! Finlay stays determined and goes back in the attack, delivering several stomps before lifting him to his feet. He lifts Rock onto his shoulders and hit’s the Finlay Roll/Kamikaze! He once again goes for the cover and this time he puts his feet on the middle rope for leverage! 1... 2... NO! Angle pulls Finlay out of the ring!! He then drills him with a hard European uppercut. He then throws Finlay down to the ground and looks at Batista. The crowd pops as Batista stands and Angle and Batista once again get face to face. Just when it looks like the two men will come to blows, Finlay kicks Angle in the gut and tosses him back into the ring.
Finlay measures Angle and gives him a stiff kick to the face! He smiles and begins sizing Angle up once more, before once again driving his boot into his skull! The crowd begins booing as Finlay is in complete control of this match up. He squares the Olympic Gold Medalist up and goes for another kick … but this time Angle is ready, grabbing the foot of Finlay and LOCKING IN THE ANKLE LOCK!!!! Finlay writhes in pain as Angle has his deadly submission hold locked in. The Rock slowly gets up to his feet and Finlay maybe sees a glimmer of hope. Finlay rolls through the Ankle Lock, sending Angle into The Rock … who catches him and gives him a spine buster before locking in THE SHARPSHOOTER!!!
This time Angle is the one in pain as Rock has the Sharpshooter locked in! Finlay lays on the ground in pain, clutching his ankle while trying to get back up in order to break the submission. Boos fill the arena as King Booker and William Regal begin to walk towards the ring. Rock can actually look at them walk the isle as that’s the direction he’s facing with the Sharpshooter locked in on Angle. Booker leaps onto the apron and Rock lets go of the Sharpshooter to grab him!! Finlay gets back up to his feet and charges but ROCK MOVES OUT OF THE WAY AND FINLAY CRASHES INTO BOOKER, CAUSING THE KING TO FALL ON REGAL!!! Rock now charges at Finlay but he dumps Rock over the top rope, to the outside!!
Finlay taunts The Rock, whom lays on the outside and then turns around into a kick from Angle. Kurt then GIVES HIM THE ANGLE SLAM!!!! COVER!! 1... 2... 3!!!
Winner: … and new #1 Contender Kurt Angle at 15:12.


Angle pounds his chest as he gets his rightful rematch for the World Heavyweight Championship. Batista stands up and stares into the cold blue eyes of Kurt Angle.

Angle steps out of the ring and gets face to face with Batista, who begins immediately begins trash talking. Angle’s heard enough and slaps Batista right across the face and we have got a brawl on our hands! Batista and Kurt swing away on each other hitting hard rights and eventually, the two megastars end up in the crowd, fighting towards one of the exits.

Back at ringside, Booker and Regal get back up to their feet and lifts The Rock up before tossing him back into the ring. Finlay too gets up and the three men begin to go to town on Rock, stomping on him. Booker calls for them to lift Rock up and Finlay and Regal do just that. Booker begins reigning in right hands before …

***King of Kings*** hits to an exceptional ovation as Triple H runs down to the ring, and King Booker immediately bails. Regal throws a right but Hunter blocks it and takes him down with a hard clothesline, causing Regal to roll out. Finlay tries the same but he’s met with hard right hands before being clotheslined out of the ring!

Triple H then turns his attention towards The Rock and seems to be getting set up for The Pedigree!! Rock slowly gets onto his knees and Hunter looks ready to strike but Booker hits Hunter from behind. He then attempts an Irish whip but Triple H counters and sends Booker into the ropes. He comes back and HHH gives King Booker a PEDIGREE!!!

The crowd pops as Hunter stands over Booker. Rocky turns around and sees The Game. Hunter turns around and THE ROCK GIVES TRIPLE H A ROCK BOTTOM!!! A mixed reaction fills the arena though mostly geared towards cheers as The Rock stands over Triple H. We fade out with a close up on The Rock as he intensely stares down at “The Game” apparently believing he had to strike before being struck.


End of Show
 
#727 · (Edited)
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by DDMac

Another recapped show, excluding a short Kurt Angle promo.
_______________________________
WWE SmackDown!; January 12th, 2007 (Recap)



Joey Styles and Tazz welcome us to the broadcast, highlighting some of the matches for tonight before mentioning that several superstars qualified for the Royal Rumble during house shows this past week. Stars include Kurt Angle, Bobby Lashley, Mr. Kennedy, John Cena, King Booker, Finlay, William Regal also RAW superstars, Umaga, The Big Show, Johnny Nitro, Joey Mercury and Ken Doane.

The general manager of SmackDown!, Stephanie McMahon, comes down to the ring. After gaining a bit of cheap heat, insulting the fans of Texas, she brings up the situation regarding the #1 contender for the World Heavyweight Championship, with Kurt Angle re-entering the ring, after he was eliminated, to eliminate both The Rock and Triple H. Before Steph can name the #1 contender, the champion Batista and his manager, Ric Flair, make their way to the ring, looking as cool and confident as always. Flair does the talking, saying that neither Hunter nor Rock should get the title match since they both loss. Stephanie thinks it over before solving the problem and giving us our main event. It will be Batista and Ric Flair versus The Rock and Triple H. If Tista and Flair win, they get a break come the Rumble and Batista will not have to defend the championship but if they lose, whomever gets the pin fall, either Hunter or Rock, will earn the title match at RR.


In the first match up of the night, the WWE Tag Team Champions Shelton Benjamin & Gregory Helms team up with The Hardy Boys to take on The Hooligans, Rey Mysterio & Chavo Guerrero in an eight man tag match. All eight men put on a great match up, utilizing an incredibly fast pace but it’s the heels whom pick up the victory, with Matt Hardy hitting the Twist of Fate on Chavo and Jeff Hardy following up with a Swanton for the pin fall victory. After the match, the Hardyz let Benji and Helms know that they would soon be coming for the WWE Tag Team Titles.

In the locker room, King Booker and Finlay have an argument, both men wanting the United States Champion William Regal to accompany them to ringside. Things get a bit heated with Finlay stepping in Booker’s face but Regal finally steps in, saying that since he’s the only member in the Court with gold, he is threw acting as a manager. Regal then storms out, leaving Booker and Finlay in a bit of shock.

After the break, John Cena and Finlay due battle in a match up of superstars whom have already qualified for the Royal Rumble. The match is rough but its Cena who pulls it out, hitting a low blow and following up with the FU for the victory! After the match, Cena grabs a microphone and cuts a scathing promo against Mr. Kennedy. Though he’s already scheduled to compete in the 30 man battle royal, he actually challenges KK to a rubber match at the Royal Rumble, saying he wants to make Kennedy his bitch twice in one night. He then drops the mic and storms up the ramp to tremendous heat from the audience.


In the backstage area, Kristal Marshall asks Kurt Angle his thoughts about winning the Rumble. Angle holds his head down before responding…

Kurt Angle: The Royal Rumble … (scoffs) I’ve been in that match several times before but this time its different -- its very different. Y’see this time is my last shot. I’ve used up every last one of my opportunities I’ve had at Batista only to get screwed out of it, or for Batista to get lucky or, or, or FOR SOME BULLSHIT TO HAPPEN AND COST ME MY WORLD TITLE!!!

Kristal looks startled by Angle’s sudden outburst of emotion. Angle wait’s a second or two to calm down before responding.

Kurt Angle: Being the best, being the champion, being the top dog … is what I do. I am nobody -- NOTHING without the World Heavyweight Championship. I would give everything I have, everything in my possession, everything I love and care about to hold my World Title again, the same championship I held for nine months on.

Angle looks at the camera, holding back an outbreak of emotion, maybe anger, maybe tears. He grabs his gold medals, which are around his neck, and holds them out for Kristal to see and then shows them to the camera.

Kurt Angle: 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist. Y’see this?

Angle then takes them off and violently flings them down the hallway as Kristal lets out a shriek and the crowd gasps.

Kurt Angle: THOSE MEDALS -- THAT SHIT MEANS NOTHING TO ME!!! NOTHING!! What the hell is some accomplishment -- some damn award that I won ten some odd years ago!? Huh, what good does that do me, huh!? Nothing means anything to me anymore … until I win the Royal Rumble -- NOTHING!! Not my gold medals, not my previous accomplishments, NOT EVEN MY WIFE, none of that means shit to me until I win the Royal Rumble and that World Heavyweight Championship is back around my waist!! Interview over!

Angle stares at Kristal with almost sick blue eyes and she backs away from Angle in fear.


After the break, we return to the locker room of Dave Batista and Ric Flair, with the Nature Boy hyping up the World Heavyweight Champion for the tag team main event match.

Back to in ring action where the “Fallen Angel” Christopher Daniels puts his Cruiserweight Championship on the line against the man he took it from some time ago, Chris Sabin. The two put on a good match, moving at a faster pace than usual considering the match only ran seven minutes. The finish comes when Daniels get himself intentionally counted out, running out of the match and retaining his title.

After the break, we get a promo from Bobby Lashley (go ahead, jump for joy), hyping up the huge opportunity he gets a few weeks from now, in the thirty man Royal Rumble. Promo is nothing more than a way to give him some build and face time heading into the sixty minute spectacular.

The next match up the night takes place between two other Rumble competitors, Ken Kennedy and King Booker. The two men put on a pretty decent contest, with no outside interference from any parties. The finish comes when Booker takes KK down and goes to the top for a high flying move but he takes too long and Kennedy hits him with a right, making him lose his balance. Kennedy then grabs him and hit’s the Green Bay Plunge for the pin fall victory!! The crowd cheers for Kennedy as he gains even more momentum. KK grabs a microphone and accepts Cena’s challenge for the Royal Rumble!!!

Before we get to our final commercial break, we get a split screen of Batista and Flair confidently walking to the ringside area and on the other side, Triple H and The Rock arguing with each other (but the camera isn’t close enough to hear).

Finally, the main event. Hunter and Rock actually manage to coexist in the match up, taking the fight right to Batista and Flair. The end looks near when Rock hits The Rock Bottom on Flair and goes for the cover but Triple H pulls him off, wanting to earn the title match!! The two argue for a bit until Hunter pushes The Rock! Rocky has had enough and rocks Hunter with a right hand. Triple H retaliates and the two icons exchange shots in the middle of the ring amidst a huge reaction from the crowd!! On the outside, Batista grabs a steel chair and slides in!! He takes Rock out with a huge shot to the back, taking him down!! Hunter swings away on Batista but Flair comes from up behind and takes him out with a low blow!! The referee calls for the bell, signaling for the disqualification! The World Champion Batista then wears both Hunter and Rock out with chair shots, leaving them a broken mess in the ring!!

Batista then grabs his championship from ringside and he and Flair head back up the ramp with smirks on their faces before Stephanie appears at the top of the ramp. Batista and Flair both smile, thinking they’ve got over since no one won the match up, no one gets the title match. Stephanie announces that at the Royal Rumble it will be Batista defending the World Heavyweight Championship against The Rock AND Triple H in a triple threat match!!! The Animal and The Nature Boy throw a fit, bitching and moaning before staring back into the ring as both Rock and Hunter fume, while still lying on the canvas.


Current Card for the Royal Rumble
Date: January 28th, 2007
Location: AT&T Center; San Antonio, Texas
Theme: "Drones" by Rise Against

30 Man Royal Rumble Match:
Announced participants: Chris Benoit, The Big Show, Ken Doane, JBL, Johnny Nitro, Joey Mercury, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Umaga, The Undertaker, Kurt Angle, John Cena, Finlay, Ken Kennedy, King Booker, Bobby Lashley, William Regal

World Heavyweight Championship
Batista w/Ric Flair vs. Triple H vs. The Rock

WWE Championship:
Randy Orton vs. Shawn Michaels

Grudge Match
John Cena vs. Ken Kennedy

 
#796 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by DDMac

The Patriot’s Raw Review

First of all, I’ll address the Main Event situation. The Road to WrestleMania tournament is always a good thing. It’s safe, consistent booking on your part to put together a solid tournament, and you’ve done just that. John “Bradshaw” Layfield and Shawn Michaels would have been an amazing match, and Michaels’ bumping is great booking. Layfield is capable of keeping up, and the finish only added to my opinion of the match. Next up, Edge against Big Show with the run in from Michaels was a bit awkward to me. Michaels didn’t seem like the type to help Edge out, but this led to a stare down that really builds the show for next week. The segment was a little awkward, but as I said before, it was good and effective. Umaga and Big Show attacked Edge and Michaels to the delight of Randy Orton, but once again, this seemed a bit out of place to me. I realize you’re trying to keep your two monsters strong, but I’m not so sure this was the way to do it. The speech from Angle was also a fantastically written segment, and you made a wise decision to write it in full. Since you did, I’ll give it some more attention. I think Angle came out with the right state of mind, to let everyone know that he’s coming to Raw. Austin predictably emerged from the back, and went to work on Angle. Angle tells Austin that he’s just a has been, and that’s a good angle to go with. Angle and Austin eventually go to town, and Luther Reigns tries to get involved, before being quickly disposed of. Once again, we have another run in that just was a bit awkward. I think Reigns should have helped to get Angle over, or he should have just been left out of the equation. Kennedy makes the save, and a classic moment takes place when Kennedy and Austin celebrate to win the show. I’m giving you some extra points for the theatrics of that moment. Overall, your Main Event level feuds look good, but the booking of this show seemed a little cluttered. I didn’t see any need for the Orton promo, or the Umaga and Show attacks. I also saw no need for the Reigns involvement. 7/10

Next up, I’ll address the under card. There was a really good women’s match on this card that showed some great psychology from the conniving Mickie James. I look for Mickie to retain against Victoria, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Victoria won, leading to a confrontation between the two at WrestleMania. In the first contest of the evening, we saw Ken Doane get back to his winning ways after a tag match. Doane and Carlito somewhere down the road will be a fun and unique match for you to write. In the final contest of the evening, the ECW alumni got back on the right track. This contest was awkwardly placed on the card, and I think it would have fit in nicely between the two tournament semi-finals. Nonetheless, you are delivering some efficient and effective lower card feuds that should eventually add some depth to your WrestleMania project. 9/10

I’ll write a few short points regarding presentation. There was a grammatical error that saw you mention Doane as a member of both teams. As a new reader, that was confusing to me. Other than that, your presentation looked solid. I would have liked to see more color, but your well written, effective recap style really helped me get through the project with no problem. 8/10
 
#801 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by DDMac

Sorry for the double post

ORRY's Raw Recap Review

I'm sure a few people have already pointed it out, but I assume you meant Intercontinental Champion Carlito right? Anyway, in a rematch from News Years Revolution, it is former Champ :)p), Doane, who pick sup the win for his team, nailing Storm with the Guilotine Legdrop for the victory. A nice start to the show, and a good way to incorporate two different feuds into the one contest.

Standard promo from JBL, hyping the fact eh plans on winning his match against HBK tonight, and moving on to WM23. The last line from Bradshaw was a nice touch.

Angle from SD! is here tonight! No doubt to build his WM match, for it is obvious it is going to occur, with Stone Cold Steve Austin. Can't wait to see where this goes, and I'm very much looking forward to what is a very originial feud heading into a WrestleMania.

Two great heel managers seem to be on the same page, as Heyman asks Estrada and Umaga to lend some assistance to Big Show later on tonight. In my opinion, Umaga will turn on Show, setting up a true clash of the titans contest at Mania.

Unique build up for the upcmoming Mickie/Victoria match for the Women's Championship, as despite the fact Mickie left Victoria stranded basically as a result of her shoulder 'injury', Victoria was still able to plow through three women, looking very strong heading into next week. Although we all know Mickie is retaining right :p

HBK promo was a nice way of building up his chances tonight against JBL in the tournament match, but I expect to see JBL take the win, maybe due to cheating, allowing Bradshaw to job to Edge next week in the tounrey final.

Angle seems to have a trick or two up his sleeve tonight in regards to Stone Cold, and apparently, Luther Reigns is involved. *Sigh*, surely there must have been a better option than Luther, although I suppose the history between Angle and Reigns is there.

I guess I was wrong; HBK wins his qualifying match with JBL, and will move on to face Edge next week (for he is no doubt going over Big Show tonight). Orton seems furious at the result, and Edge sighs as he knows he has a challange ahead of him in the tourney final.

Nice interaction between Show and Edge building to their big match up later on tonight. With Edge reminicing on what the RKO Army did to him at NYR, I look forward to even more the eventual clash between Randy and Edge at Mania.

In what looked to have been a suprisingly extremely good match, SHow and Edge trade blows back and forth, until Umaga makes his presence felt, taking out Edge, only for HBK to make the save, allowing Edge to nail the Spear and pick up the win. The Orton promo after the match was great booking, with Randy distracting his two rivals, which allowed Show and Umaga to recover, and lay out the two possible challangers to Randy's WWE Title.

RVD and Sabu defeat the Spirit Squad in nothing more than a filler match, but one must wonder what you have in store for the two, particularly Van Dam, heading into Mania.

Great way to end the show what for the majority of the time was a very well constructed segment. Despite the fact there were a few grammar mistakes and a missing word here or there, you were solid in your delivery of both Austin and Angle, and the appearances by both Luther and Kennedy were well timed. The closure of the show, with Kennedy and Austin sharing drinks, would also be a moment to remember.

ANother great recapped show buddy, with the highlight obviously being the clsoing segment at the end. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to No Way Out.
 
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#841 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by DDMac

Raw Feedback

I think I've review you in the past, but I've never really tuned in for a long time. I'm gonna try to do that now. So, here goes...

Oh, and great commentary. Overselling much? Great hype though, honestly.

Opening Segment - Angle was on, and off in this promo as for character. He sounded great at some points, but at others, not too much. I didn't like the transition from talking about SD! to talking about himself being on USA. Kind of awkward. I popped for Angle vs. Austin, but Coachman says no. I like that. Great promo work there. Vince pwns. Angle vs. Austin at WM 23. It's on. Great promo. Other than the shaky Angle start, the promo picked up, and entertained.

Tag Title Match - I don't really know the story behind this all, but it was nice to see the tag titles switch hands on a Raw show, and nice ending to the match. Good stuff here.

Orton Promo - It was an okay promo. Orton didn't sound like himself, but he's a changed person in this promo with the leader gimmick, which I can never see in reality. Bashing each member of his army, except Melina of course. I see mutiny in the future tbh.

Women's Match - Mickie leaving, and getting counted out. :confused: WADS SUP WIT DAT? [/Hurricane] It's pretty intriguing actually. Hopefully, we get the full scoop later in the show.

First Big Show, and Heyman enter, not Umaga, and AAE. Suspicious considering Vince's words earlier.

JBL Promo - Short, but I loved it. Sounded just like him tbh. Flowed great too. Backup plan, eh?

Masters vs. Jobber - Squash. Masters doesn't go over for me here.

Angle/Haas Promo - Great confrontation. Brings back old Team Angle days. Angle sounded good to start, but not so good to me afterwards. Haas was great. Ending of the promo didn't feel right, but Angle vs. Haas next week should be good.

Coach Persuasion - Nice. Coach has a plan. Good stuff with Estrada. Loved that.

Carlito vs. Doane - I wanna see Orton's reaction after this honestly. Doane loses, but what's more interesting is that JBL's backup plan is to go for the IC title? That's one step down from the WWE title, which I guess JBL would go for. Good stuff here.

HBK Promo - I liked this. HBK sounded just like HBK, and some of the things he said I could imagine. Great promo with a great flow to it. Nice hype for the main event too.

Edge Promo - Hate the transition from one promo to another. For Edge, it's about revenge on Orton. Great promo here as well. I'm loving your promos tbh. They have a nice flow to them.

Main Event - What a better way to end it, then this. I thought HBK would have won, but Orton interfered. I see a triple threat at WM. ;)

Overall - Great show. Definitely one of the better shows I've read in the past while. Promos were great. Probably the best part of the show. Matches were also good. Definitely loving the storylines, their progression, and your booking. I'm gonna try to tune in from now on. Keep up the good work.
 
#852 ·
Re: WWE 2006 & Beyond by DDMac

Smackdown Feedback

Alright Mac, I loved your Raw that I had to come back for more. :p

Opening Promo - Not a bad start with Kennedy. Kennedy as face isn't as entertaining as Kennedy as heel. Nice wording with some things. I didn't like the little talk about Angle, and then the transition to WM. Didn't feel right, and didn't flow to me. I'm quite surprised you give Kennedy pops to some of the things he said. Meh, he's kinda like SCSA in a way here, I guess. Flair interrupting came at the point I expected tbh. It always happens at that point. Why is Flair backing Batista up? Being a bitch again? Flair's pretty damn good so far. I like how your capturing his intense side. I personally didn't like how it ended. Made me feel that there was no ending tbh. Overall, a good promo. Had it's highs, and lows. Character, for the most part, was great. Flow was good for most of it. Not a bad opening promo, just needed a better conclusion imo.

Daniels vs. Kash - 619? Mimicking Mysterio now? I guess I know where this will go. Not a bad opening match. Cruiserweights getting time = ratings to me. Good stuff.

King's Court Promo - Decent enough promo here. Was pretty damn short, but I guess it wasn't really meant to be long. Finlay seemed off in this promo, while Booker was okay, and Regal wasn't that great either. To me, the promo felt awkward for flow. I wasn't feeling it.

Rey/Chavo vs. King's Court - Didn't expect Regal/Finlay to win, but I kind of expected the beatdown. I guess the heels got the better end of things here. I'm quite surprised by Lashley's save, but not so much at the same time, as their seems to be good reasoning behind it. Not bad, like the booking here.

Daniels/Rey/Chavo Promo - Daniels was great in this promo, but calling Mysterio an overrated spot monkey is kind of breaking kayfabe imo, and I mark for Mysterio, so that was pretty bad. Daniels controlling, and making this promo good = ratings. Chavo falling into pressure, and taking the challenge is pretty cool. I don't see his career gone because of this though. Great promo here. Daniels pwns.

Kane vs. Mark Henry - AAE? Cool, guess this has to do with Coach's proposition. Wow, I was right. Big men massacre here. Haha, and Umaga, and Big Show running this show. Good booking. I love the possibilities of this storyline. Not a bad start to it either. I see Steph has something planned for Coach as well. This storyline is starting up quite fast tbh.

Triple H Promo - I know I said this somewhere else, but I hate the expression "Why, __________, Why". I feel it was really appropriate for Eddie, and should be kept that way. It's really me nitpicking at little things though. The whole "I did it" speech is pretty damn good, but corny to me. Bringing The Rock into this, and making it seem personal makes me believe there's something that's gonna happen between the two. Good promo here. Triple H was great for the most part. Flow was great as well. I think some things could have been worded better, but they're minor.

8 Man Tag Team Match - I thought it was just a filler tag team attraction match, but London pinning one half of the tag champs = rematch to me. Not bad though. At least every division seems to be shining, and standing out in their own way. I like that.

Cena Promo - Good promo here. Could have been longer, but I liked it. It touched on the points needed, and the message came across clearly. Plus Cena being heel is awesome, and new.

Main Event - A match like this as main event? Wow, that's quite surprising. There's better possible things. STFU plus chair = major ratings to me. Steph announces Taker being added to Smackdown, which basically is a trade for Kurt Angle. Cena vs. Taker seemed most likely, but I didn't expect the announcement so early.

Overall - Good, solid show. I prefered the last Raw over this Smackdown though. Promos were good. Matches were good. I like your booking despite some early things in some decisions. I mostly like how everything in the show stands out in a way, and no division seems to be left out. Good stuff Mac, keep it up.



Raw Feedback

Opening Promo - Orton to start off the show. First line, I didn't like, but it was a decent way to start off. Orton goes on a rather unentertaining talk, which had the random RKO Army line, before Michaels comes. I'm hoping for him to spruce it up. Michaels was okay. Wasn't really feeling the remainder of the promo, and the SCM was the most random ending to a promo ever. Came out of nowhere tbh. Decent promo to start off the show.

Big Show/Umaga vs. High + Promo - Kind of expected a win from the newly formed duo, especially with a Raw vs. SD type feud starting. Heyman didn't sound like himself, but that's maybe because of the storyline. Great match announcement, and the banner for the match isn't that great. Probably the worst one there. :p

Coach/Randy Promo - Both weren't really in character. Coach seemed too confident. That's not him at all. Match announcements were great, especially the three way dance. That should be one helluva match.

IC Contender Match - Van Daminator = DQ, right? If not, that's pretty weird. RVD vs. Carlito is a good choice, although I though JBL would have gotten the win because of last week.

Coach's Corner - Coach seemed way too confident. I don't know, Coach isn't usually like this though, but this thread, he might be different. Good match announcement as well. I see JBL might get a chance at Carlito afer all.

Angle vs. Haas + Promo - I remember the match announcement from this last week, and by the sounds of it, it was a pretty good match. I liked Angle at the start of this promo, but towards the middle, he strayed out of character. Austin owns, and the "WHAT" definitely add to his part. Austin's part was great, and the clash between the two verbally after was great as well. I still wasn't feeling Angle though. His character in this promo wasn't that great at all.

Mickie Promo - Surprised Mickie gave in to Vic so fast with the surprise. Not much of a surprise now I guess. It's definitely not over between the two. Other than Mickie looking like a little bitch, she was good for the most part of the promo. Good stuff.

Cade/Murdoch vs. Eugene/Duggan - Filler.

Main Event - Heels take it here after a low blow, and RKO. Surprised Edge didn't make his presence felt all show despite him being added to the main event. Nevermind, just read the match aftermath, and there he was. I still think he should have made an appearance earlier.

Overall - SNME looks good, WM looks great so far. Match booking, and storyline advancement are great. I think some things are announced too early instead of being overtime, but that's nothing really big. Promos were good. Average for you me thinks. Once again, another solid show from you, and I'm really enjoying this thread.
 
#1,034 ·
Re: WWE 2007 & Beyond by DDMac

Glad many seemed to be rather excited. A couple of points of concerned. Right off the bat, I know that some bookers like to add a couple of comedic segments to their shows, but not me. It's WrestleMania - biggest show of the year. Wrestling plz. Just my couple of cents. So outside of a Maria appearance, srs bzns.

And no excuses for not reading the Women's Title Match with zeal. Awesome stuff, imo.[/ego] :gun:

Enough talk. Enjoy. :)

_____________

***


Music plays as we see a clip of Stone Cold Steve Austin storming down a backstage hallway.

Stone Cold Steve Austin:
WrestleMania. The single most important night in the life of a WWE superstar. If you don’t want to be at WrestleMania, you might as well not be here, because it don’t get no better than this.

Austin holding up the WWF(E) Championship at WM 14.

Jim Ross:
The Austin Era has begun.

The Rock sitting with his head down in his locker room.

The Rock:
The world stands still, when you stand in that ring … and look out into that crowd. It’s a surreal environment.

Rock standing on the turnbuckle and raising his arm at WM 19.

Triple H:
Legends aren’t born. Legends are made. And they’re made … at WrestleMania.

Hunter spraying his water into the air amongst a massive amount of flashbulbs.

Vince McMahon:
The moments are unforgettable.

Hogan slamming Andre at WM 3.

Edge:
Inspiring.

Austin in the sharpshooter, bleeding profusely, refusing to tap at WM 13.

Randy Orton:
… Legendary.

Rock and Hogan face to face at WM 18.

Mr. Kennedy:
Amazing.

Vince hitting the leg drop on Hogan at WM 19.

Vince McMahon:
The moments are …

Shawn Michaels:
Mine.

HBK rappelling down the line at WM 12.

Michaels leaping from the ladder at WM 10.

HBK returning to WrestleMania at WM 19.

Vince McMahon:
The moments are …

Jeff Hardy:
Death-defying.

Hardy hitting the Swanton off the ladder at WM 2000.

Kurt Angle:
Pure heaven.

Angle walking down the aisle at WM 19.

Vince McMahon:
The moments are …

Christopher Daniels:
Here.

Daniels hitting a suicide dive.

Vince McMahon:
The moments are …

John Cena:
NOW!!

Cena dropping The Phenom with an FU.

Vince McMahon:
Tonight’s the night … to prove you are …

Shawn Michaels:
THE SHOWSTOPPER!!

Michaels twirling in the middle of the ring, amongst tremendous pyro.

Vince McMahon:
Tonight’s the night to prove you are …

Triple H:
THE GAME!!

Hunter raising his arms on the turnbuckle.

Vince McMahon:
Tonight’s the night to prove you are …

Mr. Kennedy:
A champion.

Kennedy celebrating after winning the Royal Rumble.

Batista:
THE champion!

Batista celebrating with the World Title belt at WM 21.

Ric Flair:
The single greatest wrestler in the history of this sport.

Flair walking down the aisle at WrestleMania 8.

Vince McMahon:
Tonight’s the night to prove you are …

John Cena:
THE BOSS!!!

Cena forcing Triple H to submit at WM 22.

The Rock:
The Great One.

The Rock planting Vince with a Rock Bottom at WM 2000.

Randy Orton:
Not only a Legend Killer … not only the WWE Champion, but the new era of World Wrestling Entertainment.

Orton dropping Foley with an RKO at WM 20.

Vince McMahon:
Tonight’s the night to prove you are …

Stone Cold Steve Austin:
Still the world’s toughest son of a bitch.

Austin stunning Michaels, Bret, and Rock throughout this event.

Kurt Angle:
Quite simply, the best.

Angle forcing Michaels to submit at WrestleMania 21.

Rob Van Dam:
Ready.

RVD pulling down the MITB last year.

Ken Doane:
Ready; Not too young for the success.

Doane hitting his Guillotine Leg Drop.

Ric Flair:
Not too old for greatness.

Flair forcing Sabin to submit on a SmackDown before WM.

Triple H:
I’m ready.

Pedigree on Mick Foley at WM 2000 on the steel chair.

The Rock:
I’m ready.

Rock Bottom on Austin at WM 19.

Mr. Kennedy:
Ready to prove that I belong on this stage, ready to prove that I EARNED this stage … ready to drink it all in.

Shot of KK on an edition of SmackDown looking up at the WM 23 sign.

Rey Mysterio:
I’m ready.

Mysterio leaping up through the stage at WM 19.

The Big Show:
I am ready.

Big Show making his WrestleMania debut at WM 15.

Shelton Benjamin:
Ready to let it all hang out, one more time.

Benjamin sprinting up the ladder in the first MITB Ladder Match.

Paul London & Brian Kendrick:
Ready to let it all hand out, for the FIRST time.

Shot of The Hooligans sprinting down to the ring.

Chris Harris & James Storm:
Ready to prove I belong.

AMW celebrating with the World Tag Team Titles.

Batista:
Ready to prove that perfection isn’t an impossibility.

Flashing shots of Batista standing over all of his fallen title opponents.

Mickie James:
Ready for my anniversary.

Infamous shot of Mickie licking between her fingers before winning the title at WM 22 against Stratus.

John Cena:
Ready for war.

Cena storming to the ring at WM 21.

Shawn Michaels:
No matter how many times I step out onto that stage …

Quick clips of Michaels’ entrance in every WrestleMania he’s been in.

Ric Flair:
No matter how many championships …

Flair holding the WWF(E) Title at WM 8.

The Rock:
No matter how much success …

Shot of The Rock in many of his Hollywood epics, before focusing on The Rock “smelling it” at WM 2000.

Edge:
No matter how much anticipation …

Edge bouncing up and down at the top of the stage at WM 21.

Kurt Angle:
No matter how much preparation …

Memorable back shot of Angle running up stairs in his red, white and blue attire.

Triple H:
No matter how much expectation …

Triple H walking down to the ring as Motorhead plays his entrance.

Stone Cold Steve Austin:
I still get goose bumps.

Austin raising the double bird at the end of his match a WM 19.

Batista:
But that aside…

Batista and Hunter face to face at WM 21.

John Cena:
I’m ready.

Cena lifting The Big Show onto his shoulders at WM 20.

Mr. Kennedy:
I’m ready.

Shot of Kennedy and Batista face to face.

Randy Orton:
I’m ready.

Orton (and Evolution) at the top of the entrance ramp at WM 20.

Vince McMahon:
For the 23rd time …

Quick flashes of all 22 WrestleMania stages.

Vince McMahon:
I’m ready.

McMahon in the ring, some 20 years ago …

Vince McMahon:
This … is WRESTLE - MANIAAAAAAAA!!!!



***


Monday Night Raw and Friday Night SmackDown present …





WRESTLEMANIA 23



Cut to the arena and an incredible amount of pyro shoots off on the spectacular WrestleMania stage. The fireworks display goes on for a half a minute before the camera pans around the arena, and we get shots of the thousands of fans in attendance tonight in Ford Field.


Jim Ross:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 23rd annual WRESTLEMANIA!! King, just listen. This arena is on fire, Ford Field is ready to blow the roof off of this place! And who can blame them, this, the biggest night of the year, WrestleMania 23, ready to kick off!! I’m Good Ol’ J.R. Jim Ross, and calling the Raw matches tonight, my broadcast colleague, Jerry “The King” Lawler!

Jerry Lawler:
J.R., you and I have been calling this event for a very long time. We’re a couple of dinosaurs, but each and every time this mega event rolls around, I’m more excited than the year before!! This night is gonna be something special!!

Jim Ross:
There isn’t a doubt in my mind about that, King, but we’re not alone here tonight. Let’s take it to our Spanish colleagues for this event, Hugo Savinovich and Carlos Cabrera! Take it away, amigos!


Savinovich and Carlos speak for a bit before shooting it to the SmackDown announce team of Styles and Tazz.


Joey Styles:
It’s been a long, hard journey, but here we are, on the grandest stage of them all, WrestleMania 23, Ford Field, thousands of fans, here in Detroit, Michigan. And this is gonna be one hell of a ride!

Tazz:
No doubt about it. Ford Field is ready, I’m ready, you’re ready and you know the boys in the back are ready. Some of the most intense, personal and exciting matches will take place here tonight at WrestleMania.

Joey Styles:
You’re absolutely right. Let’s get this show on the road!! Our first match up of the night is moments away!!



“I SPIT IN THE FACE OF PEOPLE WHO DON’T WANT TO BE COOL”



***CARIBBEAN COOL***

The crowd gives a tremendous ovation, clearly amplified for the first face of the night, and the Intercontinental Champion Carlito coolly walks onto the stage, dressed in his purple trunks, Caribbean shirt, with his IC Title on his shoulder, apple in hand and smirk on his face.


Lillian Garcia:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall … and it is for … THE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP!!
(Crowd pops) Introducing first … from San Juan, PUEEERRRRRTO RICO … weighing in tonight at 235 pounds … he is the INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIOOOONNNNN, CARRRRLLLLLITOOO!!!


Carlito steps into the ring and takes a bite of his apple, looking Lillian up and down, before swallowing the apple, letting out a smile.


Jim Ross:
Listen to this ovation, now that’s cool! Carlito, one of the young stallions - the young studs of the WWE. Charismatic, athletic and brimming with confidence, he’s on his way to the main event … but that road to superstardom goes through a former WWE Champion, John Bradshaw Layfield, right here tonight on the grandest stage of them all.

Jerry Lawler:
You know, Carlito doesn’t exactly have a sparkling record at this event, WrestleMania, J.R. Two years ago he was on the receiving end of a Stone Cold Stunner and at last year’s WrestleMania, Carlito and The Masterpiece FAILED at capturing the World Tag Team Championship. We’ll see if he can turn his luck around tonight.


*STOCK MARKET BELLS*



***LONGHORN***

Boos fill the arena as the bull-horned white limousine of the Wall Street Warrior pulls into Ford Field, through the side entrance. The driver gets out of the limo, scurrying to the back and opening door.
Soon enough, the former WWE Champion John Bradshaw Layfield steps out of the limo, clad in a white hat and red, white and blue workout top. JBL raises his arms up, letting out a toothy grin before Texas Two-Stepping his way down to the ring.


Lillian Garcia:
And his opponent … from NEW YORK CITY … weighing in tonight at 295 pounds … JOOOOHHHHHN BRADSHAW LAYFIELD … J - B - L!!!


JBL climbs the ring steps and enters the ring. He gives Carlito a bit of an arrogant glance before climbing the turnbuckle, taking off his white hat and grinning to a huge amount of heat.


Jim Ross:
King, you mentioned Carlito’s recent success - or lack thereof at WrestleMania, well, JBL has been somewhat the opposite of that. Last year at WrestleMania 22, John Bradshaw Layfield defeated the Rabid Wolverine Chris Benoit and left with the United States Championship. Carlito may not be the same as Benoit, but this is the same Layfield, a very successful man, not just on Wall Street but inside the squared circle.

Jerry Lawler:
This man is a former WWE Champion. Beaten the likes of Eddie Guerrero, The Undertaker, Chris Benoit, Rob Van Dam, King Booker, The Big Show and Kurt Angle. JBL has been more than successful, he’s been dominant and Carlito may find out tonight that it’s better to be dominant than cool.


***Bell rings***





WWE Intercontinental Championship Match:
Carlito(c) vs. John Bradshaw Layfield

The champion, Carlito, and the challenger, John Bradshaw Layfield, move towards the center of the ring, eyes locked on one another. Each man’s hands move to their sides before quickly being brought back up, as the two superstars engage in a collar and elbow tie up. Being the bigger of the two wrestlers, Bradshaw is the first to gain leverage, using his height and weight advantage to back Carlito into the corner. The two men tussle for a bit until the referee gets in between them, causing JBL to break his grip. Bradshaw lets out a smirk as he looks at the much smaller Carlito, before taking his hand and “playfully” slapping Carly in the face, a sign of blatant disrespect!!

The crowd lets out an “OH” as Caribbean Cool rubs the side of his face, comes out of the corner and delivers a scintillating SLAP right across the face of the former WWE Champion!! JBL looks at Carlito in awe as the crowd pops for the cocky youngster, whom smiles broadly. JBL asks “are you serious?” and Carlito responds “das cool” and once more the two superstars lock up in the middle of the ring once more, this time, even more intensely!

Carlito takes control, grabs the arm of JBL and goes behind, applying a hammerlock on the challenger. Carlito wrenches on the hold, but he doesn’t have it on for long as Bradshaw catches him with a nasty back elbow, sending CCC backwards. The Wall Street Warrior follows up with a hard right hand to the champion’s face and then hits a knife edge chop, garnering “WOOOS” from those in attendance. JBL then grabs Carlito by that wild hair of his and brings him into the corner, slamming his head against the top turnbuckle pad!

JBL smirks, currently in control, and throws another right hand but Carly blocks it, following up with a right of his own, before coming after Bradshaw with what the southpaw knows, the strong lefts, knocking JBL back! Carlito continues to swing away, sending the self-proclaimed Wrestling God towards the middle of the ring, but Bradshaw cuts him off, hitting a knee to the gut of the IC Champion. He follows up with a right hand, before he grabs Carly by the hand and shoots him into the ring ropes. Carlito comes back and Bradshaw throws a right but Carly ducks it, and waits for JBL to turn around. Once he does, the Intercontinental Champion leaps up and takes Layfield down with a dropkick!!

Bradshaw stumbles back up to his feet but Carlito stays on him, hitting him with hard left hands, backing him up into the ropes, before he grabs his hand and shoots JBL into the ropes. Carlito gets set too early, perhaps looking for a back drop, but JBL makes him pay, hitting a clubbing shot to the back of Carlito! Bradshaw stays on the attack, lifting Carlito’s head up and hitting a kick to the gut, before delivering a couple right hands, backing him into the corner.

JBL then pulls him out of the corner and applies a side headlock, attempting to wear the faster, younger superstar down. Carly is not in it for long, as he backs Bradshaw against the ropes, and shoots him off into the opposite direction. Layfield comes back and he hits a strong shoulder block, taking Caribbean Cool down! JBL shoots off of the ropes as Carlito flips over onto his stomach, allowing Bradshaw to run over him, hitting the ropes on the other side. Carlito gets back up to his feet as Bradshaw comes back and CCC hits a boot to the gut of JBL, keeling him over! Carlito bounces off of the ropes, and hits a running knee lift, which stuns JBL, allowing Carlito to take him down with a clothesline!!

Seeing the momentum begin to shift, the challenger, JBL, smartly decides to break it up, rolling to the outside of the ring, catching himself a breather -- not for long though, as Carlito rolls out of the ring and begins to give chase! The former WWE Champion walks around ringside for a bit, before sliding back in and Carlito soon follows - but is met with a boot to the back, as Bradshaw smartly suckered him in and now begins stomping away! Carlito desperately tries to get up, attempting to use the second rope but each time, JBL delivers a stomp, sending the IC Champion back down to the canvas!

Bradshaw grabs Carlito and brings him back up to a vertical base, before sticking Carly under his arm and slowly turning around - dropping him to the canvas with a strong swinging neck breaker!! Smirking, JBL tops Carlito, the first pinfall attempt of the match up!

…1...
………………………..…

… NO!
Carlito rather easily kicks out of the cover, as he still has plenty of fight left within him. Bradshaw sits him up before delivering a scintillating kick to the small of his back, getting a slight gasp from some in attendance! Carly winces in pain as JBL stays on the attack, straightening the champion’s back up once more before shooting off of the ropes once more, this time, hitting a shoulder block to the back!! Carlito once again cringes in pain as Bradshaw covers him once more.

…1...
………………………

… NO!
Still too early as Carlito kicks out with ease. Frustrated but still focused, JBL lifts Carlito back up to his feet before delivering a hard shot to face of the champion - and then another, before grabbing his hand and attempting to shoot him off of the ropes. Carlito counters, however, sending Bradshaw in! JBL hits the ropes, comes back and Carlito takes him up and over with a back body drop! Layfield hits the canvas and comes back up to his feet, holding his back as he rests against the ropes. Carlito charges ahead and takes the Wall Street Warrior over the top rope with a clothesline, sending him to the floor once more!

Carlito, with his face a bit scrunched up - possibly a bit more frustrated - more determined, exits the ring, following the fallen Layfield to the outside. JBL begins to crawl away, turning over onto his ass and putting his hands up, begging off the oncoming champion. Carlito will have none of it, moving in a bit faster now and that’s all Layfield needs! He grabs the front of Carlito’s tights and uses Carly’s own momentum against him, yanking him into the STEEL STEPS!!!

The crowd boos the arrogant veteran as he lifts Carlito back up to his feet, before slamming his face against the steel steps once more!!! Carlito stumbles around in pain as JBL stays on the attack, grabbing Carlito by the hair, to keep control of him, before slamming his face against the Spanish announce table!! Layfield then grabs him and tosses him under the bottom rope, back into the ring. Bradshaw soon follows and covers him, hooking the far leg!

…1...
…………………….

…2...
NO!
Carlito kicks out once more and this time, JBL seems to be a perturbed, looking at the referee and holding up three fingers, demanding a three count. The ref responds by holding up two fingers and Bradshaw begrudgingly gets back to the task, lifting Carlito back up to his feet by his hair. He tosses Carlito into the ropes and once the Intercontinental Champion comes back, JBL quickly applies the SLEEPER HOLD, a time tested maneuver!

Carlito immediately begins reaching his arms out, grasping for air almost, before pulling at the arm of Bradshaw - but it’s of no use, as Layfield has it hooked in tightly. Carlito adjusts his body, getting out of the complete control of Layfield and onto the side, where he has more options. JBL still has the hold on but that doesn’t stop Carlito from fighting, hitting JBL with a back elbow to the gut … and another … and another … and one more, finally breaking the grip of JBL! Finally freed, Carlito shoots off of the ropes but runs right into a strong knee to the gut by Layfield, once again taking the youngster down!

The crowd has almost become silent as the more experienced Layfield has taken complete control of this one. JBL once again lifts Carly up to his feet by his hair, this time, receiving a bit of a scolding from the ref, but Layfield pays him no mind. JBL backs him up against the ropes before shooting him off, catching him with a big boot to the face once he comes back! Ross and Lawler put over the current dominance of JBL, stating that Carlito may just be outclassed by the former WWE Champion of ten long months.

Carlito, laying flat on his back, has no defense for the impending onslaught from Layfield, whom drops an elbow onto the chest/throat area of the Intercontinental Champion, before getting back up and dropping another elbow and another - two more, before going for the cover, hooking the near leg!

…1…
………………………..

…2...
… NO!
The champion manages to get a shoulder up and Bradshaw once again argues, slamming his hand together, telling the ref to count faster! JBL angrily grabs Carlito and lifts him back up to his feet, before backing him up, grabbing his hand and shooting him off of the ropes! JBL gets set too early and Carlito makes him pay, hitting a stiff kick right to the face!! The crowd begins to come alive as Carly shows a bit of life, rocking the stunned Layfield with hard left hands to the face! CCC then goes to shoot off of the ropes but JBL reaches out, grabs him by his hair and slams him down to the canvas, garnering huge heat!

The ref once again warns him about the grabbing of the hair but Layfield ignores him and lifts Carlito back up to his feet, before scooping him up and slamming him down to canvas with a body slam! Bradshaw then stuns everyone in attendance, slowly exiting the ring and stepping onto the apron! JBL then begins his ascent to top turnbuckle as Carlito gradually gets back up to his feet. Bradshaw struggles with the turnbuckles, perhaps due to his unfamiliarity with something this high risk and Carlito takes advantage by getting back up to his feet and rocking the challenger with a couple of hard shots to the face!

With the challenger stunned, Carlito climbs to the middle turnbuckle, hitting a club to the back, before grabbing the arm of Layfield, slinging it over his shoulder, and wrapping his left arm around the head of Bradshaw. Carly gets set but soon takes JBL off of the turnbuckle with a SUPERPLEX!!! The crowd cheers as Carlito gets his first real semblance of offense in the match up. He takes a second to regain himself, before rolling over onto JBL.
…………………………..
…1...
…………………..

…2...
…………………………..
…….. NO!
JBL shows HIS resilience this time - kicking out of that damaging superplex and Carlito sighs, quite a bit frustrated. Bradshaw gets onto his hands and knees and begins crawling away, attempting to escape under the bottom rope but Carlito grabs himself a handful of tights - even pulling them down slightly, exposing the ass of the challenger!! The crowd begins laughing until Carly finally manages to bring Layfield all the way back into the ring!!

Carlito lifts JBL back up to his feet but Bradshaw catches him with a thumb to the eye!! Layfield readjusts his trunks before grabbing Carlito by the hair and tossing him over the top rope!!! -- but Carlito lands on the apron!! CCC quickly runs over and climbs the turnbuckle, waiting for JBL to turn around! Bradshaw finally does and Carlito leaps off, hitting a FLYING CROSS BODY, taking JBL down and hooks the leg!!!
……………………………..
…1...
……………………...

…2...
…………………………

……. NO!
JBL barely kicks out!! Carlito looks at the referee, his eyes basically saying “come on” before Carly begins speaking in Spanish, growing more frustrated by the second. Carlito lifts Bradshaw back up to his feet and goes to shoot him into the corner but JBL counters the Irish whip, sending Carlito in with tremendous authority! Carly hits the turnbuckle hard and bounces off, as JBL shoots off of the ropes, comes back and GOES FOR THE CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL -- BUT CARLITO DUCKS IT AND GOES FOR THE BACKSTABBER -- BUT LAYFIELD HOLDS ONTO THE TOP ROPE AND CARLITO SLAMS INTO THE CANVAS!!! Bradshaw smirks as he grabs the legs of Carlito applying the cover by stacking him up!!!
………………………………......
…1...
……………………….

…2...
………………………..

JBL PUTS HIS FEET ON THE ROPES!!!

………….
THREE - NO!!
THE REF SEES LAYFIELD’S FEET ON THE ROPES AND STOPS THE COUNT!! Bradshaw lets go of the cover and gets right into the referee’s face, screaming with intense anger until his face turns a shade of red. The ref says he saw the feet on the ropes as Carlito slowly gets up to his feet. JBL seems to be getting more hostile, still in the referee’s face as he hands begin to swing, showing more and more anger! The ref begins to back up as JBL continues to move forward but Carlito comes from up behind Bradshaw and ROLLS HIM UP INTO A SCHOOL BOY!!!
………………………………....
…1...
……………………….

…2...
…………………………

…………
NO!
Layfield kicks out once more and both superstars return quickly back up to a vertical base. Bradshaw charges in, looking for a clothesline but Carlito avoids contact and leaps up, taking Layfield down with a picture perfect hurricanrana right in the middle of the ring!! Carlito gets back up to his feet, leaping over Bradshaw and onto the top rope, before flipping off and drilling him with a TWISTING SENTON SPLASH!!

Carlito gets back up to his feet, running to the opposite side and going for a MOONSAULT -- BUT LAYFIELD ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY AND CARLITO LANDS ON HIS GUT!!! Bradshaw gets back up to his feet and quickly lifts the Intercontinental Champion in between his legs! Layfield smirks and imitates smoking a cigar before “putting it out” on the back of Carlito. JBL then lifts Carlito and plants him with a NASTY POWERBOMB!!! Boos fill the arena as Layfield covers Carlito, whom is motionless after the power bomb.
……………………………….......
…1...
……………………..
……………..
…2...
……………………………
…………………..

… NO!
The crowd pops as Carlito kicks out again!!! JBL can’t believe it as the look of confidence has completely disappeared and been replaced by one of desperation. JBL lifts Carlito back up to his feet and goes back to the SLEEPER -- perhaps going to well one time too many as Carlito quickly counters and hits the Wrestling God with a back suplex!!

Ford Field begins to come alive as Carlito and Bradshaw get back up to their feet after a short respite. CCC takes control, hitting the former WWE Champion with hard left hands before shooting him off of the ropes and taking Layfield down with a clothesline! JBL gets back up to his feet gingerly and Carlito backs him up against the ropes before shooting him off again. JBL comes back and Carlito leaps up, taking him down with a nice dropkick!!

Carlito is on fire and fired up, pumping his fist to rousing applause. He lifts JBL back up to his feet and shoots him into the corner before following in and mounting Bradshaw by climbing the middle turnbuckle. Detroit counts along as Carlito rains down right hands on the skull of the challenger!!

ONE! … TWO! … THREE! … FOUR! … FIVE! … SIX! … SEVEN! --

Bradshaw grabs the legs of Carlito and ducks under, getting out from beneath the assault. Carlito climbs to the top turnbuckle, gets set and leaps off the top -- GOING FOR A MOONSAULT -- BUT JBL MOVES OUT OF THE WAY -- AND CARLITO LANDS ON HIS FEET!!! The crowd “oohs” and “ahs” but Carlito turns around -- RIGHT INTO THE CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL - BUT CARLITO DUCKS IT, grabs the shoulders of JBL, leaps up, AND HITS THE BACKSTABBER!!!!! Carlito with the cover!!!!

…1...
…………………………….

…2...
……………….…………..

… THREE!!!
Winner: And STILL Intercontinental Champion, CARLITO at 13:37


The crowd cheers as Carlito retains the Intercontinental Championship - establishing himself as a true presence on the brand. Carlito gets back up to his feet, all smiles, as the referee hands him the IC Title.


Jim Ross:
Carlito has defeated the former ten month reigning WWE Champion, John Bradshaw Layfield, in the opening match of WrestleMania 23!!

Jerry Lawler:
This is a bad way to get this night kicked off, J.R.! I’ve got a bad feeling about this night!

Carlito raises his title up to a nice pop and then exits the ring. Lito then walks around ringside and grabs his apple from ringside before re-entering the ring. He stares down at the fallen JBL, before taking a bite of his apple and looking at the crowd, who respond with cheers. CARLITO SPITS THE APPLE IN HIS FACE, and smiles before leaving the ring and heading up the ramp to another pop.



***


Cut backstage inside of an office.

The chairman, Mr. McMahon, and the general managers of both Raw and SmackDown, Jonathan Coachman and Stephanie McMahon, reside. All three are dressed rather nicely, Coach and McMahon standing in black suits, while Stephanie wears a black dress. The three have apparently just finished watching the Intercontinental Title match.


Stephanie McMahon:
Carlito showing that typical Raw class afterward.

Jonathan Coachman:
Hell of a match up though.

Mr. McMahon:
That it was and what a night this is gonna be. The biggest night of the year, grandest stage of them all, WrestleMania 23!!

Stephanie attempts to speak, but Coachman immediately jumps in, talking in his typical sycophant-like fashion.

Jonathan Coachman:
I couldn’t agree with you more, Mr. McMahon. I know we’ve had a couple of minor disagreements in the past, but I must say … I’m very impressed with the way that you manage to pull this event together every year, making it bigger and better every single year.

Vinnie Mac and Stephanie shake their heads, each smiling a bit at Coach’s behavior, as Coachman smiles goofily.

Mr. McMahon:
Well, Stephanie, Coach, I’ve got some things to take care of here tonight. You know we’ve got the Hall of Famers coming up later tonight, and I’ve got some other things to run. So once more, congratulations for the hard work the two of you have put it in to making WrestleMania 23 a success, enjoy the show, and I’ll see you a little later on.

McMahon shakes the hand of both Coach and Steph, a smile while shaking Stephanie’s, before he heads out of the door. As soon as Vince leaves, Stephanie begins laughing.

Jonathan Coachman:
What’s so funny?

Stephanie McMahon:
Coach, all the sucking up in the world won’t get you in better with Vince, but more importantly than that, it won’t help you tonight - not in the Eight Man Tag Team Match, and not in the Monsters Collide Match.

Jonathan Coachman:
Stephanie, you talk rather confident for someone who was embarrassed, disgraced and just out and out humiliated on your own show this past Friday night on SmackDown.

Stephanie rolls her eyes, as Coachman adjusts his tie and suit collar before speaking once again.

Jonathan Coachman:
Y’see, Monday Night Raw takes after the handsome, intelligent, young stud who runs it, yours truly, Jonathan Coachman. Monday night Raw is all about class. Monday Night Raw is about being cutting edge. Monday Night Raw is all about brains and intelligence. Monday N-

Suddenly, there’s a knock on the door, cutting Coachman off.

Jonathan Coachman:
Come in!
(Back to Steph)As I was saying Monday Night Raw, is all about being run with astute intelligence-

Maria walks in, carrying a microphone.

Stephanie McMahon:
Speak of intellect, it’s Maria.

Maria:
Hi!

Stephanie McMahon:
Hello, Maria, what can we help you with?

Maria:
I have a question.

Stephanie and Coachman wait … and wait … and wait … … and wait some more.

Jonathan Coachman:
Maria!

Maria:
Yes?

Jonathan Coachman:
What’s your question?

Maria:
Oh, yeah!
(Giggles)I would like to get your comments on the two Raw versus SmackDown matches later tonight. What do you think the outcome will be?

Maria holds the mic up to Coach’s mouth, but Stephanie quickly takes the microphone and brings to her lips.

Stephanie McMahon:
Paul London, Brian Kendrick, Shelton Benjamin, Gregory Helms - four of the greatest young athletes to step into a WWE ring in quite a long time, and there isn’t a doubt in my mind that they will expose the Raw tandems for the conventional, though unspectacular and overrated tag teams that they are. And as for the Monsters Collide …

Coach takes the mic and brings it towards him.

Jonathan Coachman:
And as for that Monsters Collide Tag Team Match, you can expect The Big Show and Umaga to take the washed up chumps known as The Big Red Machine and The Silverback and simply … reenact this past Friday night, when they were both left laying in the middle of that second rate ring.

Coach and Steph continue to glare at one another with Maria in the middle, all smiles, completely oblivious to the obvious tension.

Back to ringside.



***



Howard Finkel stands in the middle of the ring, microphone in hand.

Howard Finkel:
The following contest … is THE MONEY - IN THE BANK - LADDER MATCH!!!

Tremendous ovation as the camera shows the MITB briefcase hanging high above the ring, before showing the ladder around ringside and the ladder in the middle of the entrance ramp.

Howard Finkel:
The first man to climb the ladder and retrieve the briefcase will earn himself a WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH which can be used at any time in the upcoming year!!


***ARABIAN PRAYER***

ECW Alumni Sabu and Bill Alfonso step out onto the stage to a great pop. Fonzie blows his whistle like a madman while Sabu carries his steel chair.


Howard Finkel:
Introducing first … from Bombay, India … weighing in at 220 pounds … the Homicidal, Genocidal, Suicidal, Death-Defying … SABUUUUU!!!!


Fonzie waits at the midway point of the ramp while Sabu steps into the ring and raises his index finger towards the sky.


Jim Ross:
This style of match up would favor someone with that devil may care, reckless … EXTREME style of Sabu. He’s definitely gonna be in his element in this Money in the Bank Ladder Match!

Jerry Lawler:
All of those years in the bingo hall working for Extremely Crappy Wrestling could get Sabu a WWE Title Match. What a shame that would be.


*PYRO EXPLOSION*



***ONE OF A KIND***

The crowd erupts into a deafening ovation as “Mr. Monday Night” Rob Van Dam enters the arena, looking as confident and cool as always.


Howard Finkel:
And … from Battle Creek, Michigan … weighing in at 230 pounds … ROB … VAN … DAM!!!


RVD slaps the hand of Bill Alfonso before both men enter the ring. Van Dam then shakes hands with Sabu before smiling as the crowd cheers the ultra-popular superstar on.


Jim Ross:
Last year, WrestleMania 22, Mr. Monday Night became Mr. Money in the Bank. And then months later, RVD went on to win the WWE Championship. We could be on our way to seeing a repeat here tonight.

Jerry Lawler:
He’s definitely got that going in his favor but he might not even be the most adept wrestler with a ladder in this match tonight!


“OH YEEAAAAAHHHH”



***LIVE FOR THE MOMENT***

Matt Hardy walks out onto the WrestleMania stage, receiving a rather loud mixed reaction here tonight.


Howard Finkel:
And … from Raleigh, North Carolina … weighing in at 233 pounds … MAAATTT HARDYYY!!!


Hardy climbs the ring steps and steps into the ring, walking to the ropes and raising up the V1 sign to another mixed reaction.


Joey Styles:
Matt Hardy, though currently teaming with his brother, has had singles success before but NOTHING along the lines of what he can accomplish here tonight.

Tazz:
You’re absolutely right, Styles. This isn’t about tag team action but Matt Hardy’s experience in tag team Ladder Matches should be a huge help to him here tonight and that’s the same for his brother.


***LOADED***

Jeff Hardy also gets a mixed reaction as he enters the arena, though a bit louder than his brother’s and with quite a few more squeals from the feminine contingent in the Detroit crowd.


Howard Finkel:
And … from Raleigh, North Carolina … weighing in at 227 pounds … JEEEEFF HARDYYYY!!!


Hardy slides into the ring and he and his brother embrace while the ECW alumnus look on rather coolly.


Joey Styles:
The daredevil of the tag team, Jeff Hardy has taken some insane risks in Ladder Matches before! Jumping off of scaffolds, through announce tables, off of ladders, onto ladders. We could see something really special here tonight.

Tazz:
He may be indestructible, Joey. I tell you one thing, I gotta feeling he’s gonna test that out in this match.


***OUT OF MY WAY***

Former Intercontinental Champion, the 20 year-old Ken Doane, steps out onto the stage to a mixed reaction.


Howard Finkel:
And … representing the RKO Army … from Worchester, Massachusetts … weighing in at 234 pounds … KEN DOOOANE!!!


Doane climbs the steel steps and enters the ring before ascending the turnbuckle and raising his arms.


Jim Ross:
Over the past several months, we’ve seen Ken Doane evolve into one of the best young talents in the sport. He captured the Intercontinental Championship - the youngest champion in history - but he can jump by LEAPS and BOUNDS by winning the Money in the Bank briefcase here tonight.

Jerry Lawler:
Recently, we’ve seen the tension in the RKO Army pick up with Doane, Orton and Nitro being the source of that. Hopefully, Doane is focused on winning instead of on that tonight.


“WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!”



***SPACE ODYSSEY***

The crowd erupts into a loud ovation and a ferocious amount of WOOOS, with a few boos sprinkled in, as The Nature Boy Ric Flair steps out onto the stage, dawned in one of his trademark extravagant robes.


Howard Finkel:
And … from Charlotte, North Carolina … weighing in at 240 pounds … the SIX - TEEN TIME HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION OF THE WORLD … THE NATURE BOY … RIC FLAIR!!!!


Flair forces the ref to hold the ropes open for him before stepping into the ring and giving the fans a bit of a twirl to a great ovation. Naitch then takes off his robe before handing it to the timekeeper while the other five competitors begin to warm up, bouncing up and down.


Joey Styles:
This crowd has completely erupted for Ric Flair! You heard the announcement; SIXTEEN-time World Heavyweight Champion. Could he be on the road to title number seventeen tonight?

Tazz:
I don’t put anything pass the Nature Boy, Styles. He’s the greatest superstar of all-time and its definitely not out of the question for Naitch to take this match up here tonight.


***Bell Rings***





Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Rob Van Dam vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Ken Doane vs. Ric Flair vs. Sabu vs. Matt Hardy
(Winner Earns A World Title Match Good for Any Time in the Next 365 Days)

The six superstars look around at one another, before quickly pairing off, kick starting this match up! Rob Van Dam and Sabu take on the Hardys while Ric Flair and Ken Doane do battle, with Fonzie watching on from ringside. The six stars brawl and eventually, Doane backs Ric Flair into the corner with right hands, while Sabu and Van Dam back Matt and Jeff up before clotheslining The Hardys over the top rope and to the floor below!!

Doane kicks Flair in the corner as RVD and Sabu stare at one another, before shooting off of the ring ropes and taking off with high risk moves - SABU WITH SUICIDE DIVE ON JEFF HARDY WHILE VAN DAM HITS A PLANCHA ON MATT HARDY!!! The crowd cheers as Doane walks away from Flair, towards the turnbuckle and climbs the turnbuckle. The Hardys, Van Dam and Sabu eventually make their way back up to their feet on the outside and DOANE LEAPS OFF THE TOP, TAKING THEM ALL DOWN WITH PLANCHA!!!

The audience cheers wildly as five out of the six superstars in this match up have been laid out already in the opening minutes of this match up. Flair stares at the carnage and does his patented Flair Strut in the middle of the ring, to a nice pop, before rolling under the bottom rope and to the outside. The Nature Boy heads up the entrance a bit and grabs the ladder, taking a little while to fold it up. He eventually does though, and then brings it towards the ring, sliding it in, before following himself.

Naitch reaches down and lifts the ladder back up and sets it up in the middle of the ring, before beginning to scale … while Rob Van Dam gets back up to his feet on the outside and the others begin to stir. Flair continues to climb the ladder in hopes of retrieving the Money in the Bank briefcase early but Van Dam soon rolls into the ring, grabs him by the tights and pulls him down off of the ladder. RVD hits Naitch with a right hand, but Flair responds with scintillating knife edged chop! The two former champions continue the back and forth for a bit, until RVD catches Flair with a sharp kick to the side of the head, taking him down, showing off his duly named “educated” feet.

Van Dam grabs the ladder and moves it to the corner, out of his way. Fonzie begins whistling like crazy, getting Van Dam’s attention and soon … tosses a STEEL CHAIR over the top rope and into Van Dam’s hands! RVD places it down in the ring, and lifts The Nature Boy back up to his feet and rocks him with a couple of right hands, before he tosses Naitch into the corner. Van Dam then picks up the ladder and walks to the far corner. RVD then picks the steel chair back up and walks to the corner. Van Dam runs out, flips - leaving the chair in the middle of the ring - leaps back up, grabs a hold of Flair and then MONKEY FLIPS THE NATURE BOY ONTO THE STEEL CHAIR!!!

Flair convulses in pain, landing on that back of his, and then Naitch rolls out of the ring in pain as Doane, Sabu, Matt and Jeff get back up to their feet on the outside. Doane quickly slides into the ring but Sabu does not have such luck, as The Hardy Boys grab the ECW alumnus and double team him, hammering away with right hands! They then grab Sabu and toss him into the STEEL STEPS, taking him out!! Inside the ring, Doane and Rob Van Dam exchange right hands, while on the outside, Matt Hardy directs traffic, telling his brother, Jeff, to help him grab another ladder! The two stars do as such and slide it into the ring, soon following in after.

Ken Doane turns around and he’s drilled with a ladder in the face by the Hardys!! Van Dam quickly reacts, looking to hit a VAN DAMINATOR ON THE LADDER -- but the Hardys are quicker, ducking themselves and the ladder down, avoiding contact!! Van Dam gets back up and catches a ladder to the face, courtesy of Matt and Jeff!! The Hardys then drop the ladder in the middle of the ring, lying it on the floor and then Matt picks up Van Dam. He scoops him up and drops him onto the ladder with a body slam!!!

Matt and Jeff then go to opposite sides of the ring, each to a corner, and walk out onto the apron before they climb to the top turnbuckle!! Both superstars seem to be looking for some sort of a high risk - high impact maneuver but their timing is thrown off as Sabu grabs a hold of Jeff’s leg! Jeff fights hard to kick him off and eventually does, sending Sabu back down to the floor. Jeff finally gets back into synch with Matt and the brothers look at one another before LEAPING OFF OF THE LADDER - LOOKING FOR A LEG DROP - SPLASH COMBO - BUT VAN DAM ROLLS BACKWARDS AND OUT OF THE WAY, CAUSING THE HARDYS TO CRASH AND BURN ON THE LADDER!!!!

Detroit groans as Matt and Jeff roll around on the ground in an immense amount of pain, while The Nature Boy Ric Flair begins to get back up to his feet at ringside. Sabu slides into the ring and picks up the steel chair in the ring. Ken Doane gets back up to his feet and SABU TOSSES THE CHAIR AT HIM, DRILLING DOANE IN THE SKULL AND SENDING HIM OUT OF THE RING!!! Sabu then grabs the steel chair and sits it up near the edge of the ring. The homicidal, genocidal, suicidal, death defying Sabu then shoots off of the ropes, leaps onto the chair, leaps up onto the top rope and LEAPS OFF, TAKING RIC FLAIR DOWN WITH A TRIPLE JUMP PLANCHA!!!

The crowd chants for Sabu as Rob Van Dam gets back up to his feet, looking around - Matt and Jeff down, Doane down, Flair down, Sabu down - and Van Dam smiles, before reaching down and grabbing the ladder. Mr. Monday Night then sets up the ladder in the middle of the ring and begins climbing …
… SIX RUNGS TO GO …

… FIVE RUNGS TO GO …

… FOUR RUNGS TO GO …

… THREE RUNGS TO GO …

… TWO RUNGS TO GO …

Matt Hardy gets back up to his feet, walks around to the other side of the ladder and begins to scale after Van Dam. RVD reaches up, trying to grab the briefcase, but Hardy hits him with a shot to the gut, and follows up with a right hand to the face! Hardy and Van Dam begin to brawl at the top of the ladder, until finally, Van Dam gets the advantage with a succession of rights! RVD then shoves Hardy’s head down, possibly looking for some sort of sunset flip power bomb … but Jeff Hardy comes from behind, and drills Van Dam in the back with a couple of hard right hands, stopping him dead in his tracks.

On top of the ladder, Matt Hardy shakes off the blows from Van Dam and soon wraps his arm around the head of RVD!! The crowd arises to its feet as Matt lets out a yell and then LEAPS OFF THE LADDER - HITTING VAN DAM WITH A TWIST OF FATE FROM FIFTEEN FEET UP!!!! A “HOLY SHIT” chant rings out as both Matt Hardy and Van Dam lie motionless on the canvas!! At ringside, Alfonso blows his whistle wildly, telling Sabu to get back up and into the ring, as the death defying superstar gets back up to his feet. Jeff Hardy steps over his brother and Van Dam and begins to scale the ladder.

… SIX RUNGS TO GO …

… FIVE RUNGS TO GO …

… FOUR RUNGS TO GO …

{Sabu re-enters the ring}


… THREE RUNGS TO GO …

{Sabu grabs the second ladder from the corner and sets it up next to the first one}

… TWO RUNGS TO GO …

{Sabu scales the ladder at a much faster pace than his counterpart}

… JEFF HAS ONE RUNG TO GO …

Sabu drills Jeff with a right hand, stopping the Charismatic Enigma from reaching for the briefcase. Sabu follows up with a couple of more rights as both Ken Doane and “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair get back up to their feet on opposite sides of the ring. Flair and Doane enter the ring, and begin to climb the ladder as well - Doane scaling the ladder Jeff Hardy is on while Flair climbs the ladder Sabu is on. The two stars climb the ladder, and the brawl is on!

The four stars brawl at the top of the ladder while Matt Hardy arises to his feet before he reaches down and grabs the steel chair!! Hardy swings the chair and DRILLS DOANE, CAUSING HIM TO FALL OFF THE LADDER!! Matt then scales the ladder, parallel to his brother and both Hardy have the same idea in mind. They each take their foot and nudge the ladder to the right of them, CAUSING THE LADDER TO FALL AND FLAIR AND SABU WITH IT -- SABU TUMBLING ALL THE WAY TO THE OUTSIDE AND TO THE FLOOR, WHILE FLAIR CROTCHES THE TOP ROPE, BEFORE FALLING OUT OF THE RING!!!

The crowd cheers while on top of the ladder both Matt and Jeff reach up, grabbing the briefcase AT THE SAME TIME!!! The Hardys stare into the eyes of one another, with the realization that it has come to this one on one predicament washing over them. Matt is the first to strike, hitting a right, but Jeff soon retaliates in kind, and the two brothers begin to hammer away on one another at the top of the ladder! Jeff soon pulls back for a big right hand, but Matt ducks, and then jumps down off of the ladder, onto the canvas. Matt then looks to shove the ladder - but Jeff jumps down off of the ladder just in the nick of time, right before it topples!!

Jeff and Matt then square off in the middle of the ring, exchanging right hands! Matt goes low, hitting Jeff with a boot to the gut, before he grabs his hand and shoots him into the ropes. Matt gets set too early and his brother makes him pay, by hitting a sharp boot to the face, grabbing him and then follows up with his sit out jawbreaker!! Matt holds his jaw in pain and Jeff grabs him by the hand, and shoots him into the ropes. M. Hardy comes back and avoids a clothesline from Jeff, and turning it into a SIDE EFFECT!!!

Outside of the ring, Ken Doane gets back up to his feet and reaches under the ring, fiddles around a bit, looking for something … before pulling out … A TABLE!!! The crowd roars as Doane pulls the table out and sets it up on the outside of the ring. Inside the ring, Matt Hardy grabs the ladder and readjusts it, and sets it back up in the middle of the ring. The elder Hardy then begins to scale the ladder once more, while Rob Van Dam gets back up to his feet as well. RVD then begins to climb the ladder as well, and we’ve got ourselves another struggle for supremacy, with Van Dam and Hardy on top of the ladder!

RVD and Matt Hardy exchange right hands, with Matt eventually gaining the advantage, knocking Van Dam off of the ladder!! RVD does not go down however, instead, merely bounces off of the ropes and back towards the ladder - SHOVING IT FORWARD, CAUSING MATT HARDY TO TUMBLE BACKWARD WITH THE LADDER TO THE OUTSIDE OF THE RING, THROUGH THE TABLE ON THE OUTSIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thunderous “HOLY SHIT” chants break out all over the arena as Matt Hardy lies a broken heap on the outside of the ring. Van Dam doesn’t spend too much time agonizing over one of his fallen opponents, and instead, fixes the ladder back up into it’s proper place. EMTs run down to the ring to check on Matt Hardy as RVD scales the ladder. The audience begins to come alive as Rob Van Dam is pretty much in the clear …
… SIX RUNGS TO GO …

… FIVE RUNGS TO GO …

… FOUR RUNGS TO GO …

… THREE RUNGS TO GO …

… TWO RUNGS TO GO …

… ONE RUNG TO GO …
Doane slides back into the ring as VAN DAM REACHES UP AND GOES FOR THE BRIEFCASE!!! Van Dam grabs a tight hold of the entire apparatus, hooks and all. Doane shoves the ladder and knocks it down, BUT VAN DAM HOLDS ON AND NOW DANGLES SOME FIFTEEN FEET ABOVE THE RING, HOLDING ON TO A FLIMSY HOOK!!! Fonzie looks on in amazement, while his other wrestler, Sabu, gets up to his feet on the outside.

Sabu grabs a steel chair from ringside and slides into the ring! Doane turns around and Sabu blasts him in the face with the chair, taking him down!!! Jeff Hardy sits up and he gets the same treatment, a hard chair shot from Sabu, causing him to roll to the outside of the ring!!! Fonzie then blows his whistle, getting Sabu’s attention, before telling the superstar to set up one of the ladders to assist Van Dam!! Sabu thinks about that concept for a moment … before TOSSING THE CHAIR AT VAN DAM, DRILLING MR. MONDAY NIGHT, AND CAUSING HIM TO FALL FIFTEEN FEET TO THE CANVAS IN A HEAP!!! EVERY MAN FOR HIMSELF!!!

Fonzie looks shocked … but soon shrugs his shoulders, telling Sabu to set up one of the ladders and begin climbing. Alfonso then turns around and gets DRILLED with a right hand from The Nature Boy Ric Flair!! Sabu rolls Van Dam out of the way and sets up the ladder in the middle of the ring. Sabu then attempts to scale the ladder, but Flair rolls in AND HIT’S A LOW BLOW ON SABU!! Sabu falls off of the ladder and Flair then grabs him, runs forward and tosses him over the top rope, to the floor below!

Flair readjusts the ladder, while on the outside Jeff Hardy pulls out ANOTHER TABLE!!! Flair begins to climb the ladder, while Jeff takes the table and slides it into the ring before following in himself. Flair slowly scales the ladder but Jeff quickly pulls him down, and hits him with a couple of right hands, backing him up into the corner. Jeff then walks back over to the table and unfolds it, setting it up in the ring. Jeff Hardy grabs Flair and puts him on top of the table, hitting him with a couple of right hands to keep him in place. Hardy then walks over to the corner, and steps out onto the apron, ready for something big, when Ken Doane rushes over and shoves him, CAUSING JEFF TO FLY TO THE OUTSIDE, HITTING HIS HEAD ON THE BARRICADE!!

Doane then takes one of the ladders and sets it up in the corner, facing the table with Flair lying across it. Doane then steps out onto the apron and climbs the turnbuckle and from the turnbuckle, climbs onto the ladder!! Doane then scales the ladder … ALL THE WAY TO THE TOP and gets himself set. The crowd gets up to its feet before DOANE LEAPS OFF, GOING FOR A GUILLOTINE LEG DROP FROM THE TOP OF THE LADDER - BUT FLAIR MOVES OUT OF THE WAY AND DOANE CRASHES THROUGH THE TABLE!!!!!

Yet another “HOLY SHIT” chant breaks out as we get a wide shot of the ring and ringside area - Matt Hardy a broken mess on the outside, Ken Doane a broken mess inside the ring, Jeff Hardy out on the outside, while Ric Flair, Sabu and Rob Van Dam are the only ones remotely capable of winning this ladder match up at the moment. Flair takes a hold of several of the bigger pieces of the broken table and throws them out of the ring, before rolling the crushed body of Ken Doane to the outside of the ring while Sabu slides back in. Flair throws a right but Sabu blocks it and rocks Flair with a couple of hard right hands of his own, taking him down. Sabu then looks around, finding his steel chair and setting it up near the middle of the ring as Rob Van Dam gets back up to his feet.

Sabu passes over Flair, leaps onto the chair, then onto the top rope before flipping backwards and hitting his Triple Jump Moonsault!! Sabu points to the sky to a nice pop, while Van Dam grabs the steel chair. Sabu turns around and Van Dam tosses him the chair! Sabu catches it and RVD leaps up, CATCHING HIM WITH THE VAN DAMINATOR, CAUSING SABU TO STUMBLE BACKWARD AND OUTSIDE THE RING!!! Rob Van Dam then grabs the ladder and sets it up in the middle of the ring and begins to climb.
… SIX RUNGS TO GO …

… FIVE RUNGS TO GO …

… FOUR RUNGS TO GO …

… THREE RUNGS TO GO …

… TWO RUNGS TO GO …

JEFF HARDY IS UP ON THE APRON!! Van Dam climbs that final rung and reaches up for the briefcase as Jeff climbs the turnbuckle, turning around. RVD ALMOST HAS IT … WHEN JEFF LEAPS OFF THE TURNBUCKLE, HITTING VAN DAM WITH A MODIFIED WHISPER IN THE WIND, KNOCKING HIM DOWN OFF OF THE LADDER!!!

Jeff has somehow put himself back in this match - WHAM!!! FLAIR TAKES HIS HEAD OFF WITH A STEEL CHAIR!! The Nature Boy smirks, taking out any brain cells left in Jeff’s skull. The crowd WOOOS as Flair then scales the ladder, pretty much in the clear … except …
MATT HARDY BEGINS TO GET UP AT RINGSIDE AFTER THAT SICK FALL!!!!

… SIX RUNGS TO GO …

… FIVE RUNGS TO GO …

… FOUR RUNGS TO GO …

{Matt climbs into the ring}


… THREE RUNGS TO GO …

{Matt starts to climbs the ladder}

… TWO RUNGS TO GO …

… ONE RUNG TO GO …

… FLAIR REACHES THE TOP … BUT MATT HARDY IS RIGHT THERE WITH HIM!!

Flair looks around comically as he stares into the eyes of somebody who just won’t die stay down. Flair hits Matt with a right - but Hardy responds! Flair hits another and once more, Matt responds with a right of his own! Naitch throws a third right but this time, Matt blocks it, and fires off a right … and another … and another, gaining the advantage as the crowd goes wild!! Out of desperation, Flair then RAKES THE EYES, digging his hand into the face of Hardy!! Flair then grabs Hardy’s head and slams it against the top of the ladder!! Then again!! Then again!! Then again!! AND ONCE MORE!! And finally … MATT FALLS DOWN TO THE CANVAS BELOW!!!

… NAITCH THEN REACHES UP …







… AND UNHOOKS THE MONEY IN THE BANK BRIEFCASE!!!!!!!!
Winner: and Mr. Money in the Bank … RIC FLAIR at 16:22.


FLAIR SNATCHES THE BRIEFCASE DOWN and clutches it, all smiles!! Flair lets out a “WOOOOOOOOO!!!” before climbing back down the ladder.


Joey Styles:
At slightly south of sixty years of age, The Nature Boy Ric Flair has earned himself a World Title match up, by winning the Money in the Bank Ladder Match here at WrestleMania 23!!

Jim Ross:
I don’t believe it!! Ric Flair has just outgunned five wrestlers who are young enough to be his sons!! He’s The Dirtiest Player in the Game, The Nature Boy, the sixteen time World Champion and now Mr. Money in the Bank!!


Flair rolls out of the ring and heads back up the entrance ramp, holding up his brief case to another loud mixed reactions. A couple of referees run past The Nature Boy to check on the stars down in the ring. Flair grabs one of them though and tells him to raise his hand, letting out “WOOOOOO!!!” one more time.



***


Vignette plays …

A black man, dressed in a white suit, shades, and a chain with cornrows in his hair, sits on a chair, with a “Raw” backdrop.

???:
Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself. I am half man, half amazing. My name is Montel Vontavious Porter.
(Holds up his chain) This is my chain, (points to Raw backdrop) that is my show and these …

Three gorgeous woman walk into screenshot and put a hand on Porter.

Montel Vontavious Porter:
These are my lovely ladies, Kelly, Layla and Brooke, or as I like to call them, P3 - Porter’s Posh Playgirls. So ladies and gentlemen, I suggest that you get ready. My name is MVP - Montel Vontavious Porter. I’m coming to Raw, and most importantly, I … am better … than you.

Fade out.

Back to ringside.



***



***BORN NAUGHTY***

The crowd lets out an appreciable amount of heat as the United States Champion William Regal makes his way down to the ring as arrogantly as ever, dawned in one of his regal-looking (pun intended) robes.


Tony Chimel:
The following contest is the FATAL FOUR WAY MATCH and it is for the UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP!!!

Crowd cheers.

Tony Chimel:
Introducing first … from Blackpool, England … weighing in at 240 pounds … the United States Champion, WILLIAM REEEEGAL!!!


Regal climbs the ring steps, wiping his shoes on the apron before stepping into the ring and giving his usual smug look to the crowd before looking at his United States Championship title belt.


Joey Styles:
At Armageddon in December, William Regal managed to capture the United States Championship, defeating Bobby Lashley. Since then Regal has managed to fend off Lashley and his teammates slash ex-teammates and hold onto the title. Can he pull one more Houdini and escape with the title again tonight?

Tazz:
William Regal is a veteran; one of the best technical wrestlers in the world. Very adapt within that squared circle, so I wouldn’t be shocked to see him leave with the gold tonight, despite the disadvantage.


***I LOVE TO FIGHT***

The voice and music of Finlay plays as the Fighting Irish Bastard steps onto the WrestleMania 23 stage, shillelagh in hand, receiving a mixed reaction.


Tony Chimel:
And his opponent … from Belfast, Ireland … weighing in at 233 pounds … FINLAY!!!!


Finlay steps into the squared circle and eyes up Regal, who doesn’t look too impressed with his former cohort.


Joey Styles:
One of the toughest men to ever step foot into a wrestling, Finlay. The Fighting Irishman has an extensive history with the other three men in this match up tonight, but, Tazz, we know he couldn’t care less whom he faces.

Tazz:
No doubt, no doubt. Finlay just wants to get in there, just wants to fight, and just wants to leave WrestleMania 23 the United States Champion.


***ROYALTY***

The crowd erupts into tremendous heat as King Booker enters the arena, with Queen Sharmell, and the newest members of his Court, ‘The Express’ Elijah Burke and ‘The Alpha Male’ Monty Brown, by his side.


Tony Chimel:
From Houston, Texas … weighing in at 251 pounds … accompanied to the ring by Queen Sharmell, the “Alpha Male” Monty Brown, and Elijah “The Express” Burke … KING BOOKERRR!!


Booker and company step foot into the ring and the Booker Man does his little shuffle before raising his right pinky into the air to more heat.


Joey Styles:
Definitely the most decorated … and decorative superstar in this match up is King Booker. Booker is a multiple time United States Champion and the five time WCW Champion. He hopes to add another championship to his very impressive résumé here tonight.

Tazz:
Booker hasn’t had tremendous success at WrestleMania, only winning once in his entire career. But with those two big kids, Burke and Brown, he could change that here in the Motor City.


***DOMINANT***

Bobby Lashley walks out onto the stage, dressed his usual black attire and receives a strong ovation. The Real Deal stretches out his arms, setting off his pyro, before continuing on down to the ring.


Tony Chimel:
From Colorado Springs, Colorado … weighing in at 275 pounds … The Real Deal … BOBBY LASHLEY!!!


Lashley leaps onto the apron, setting off even more pyro before climbing into the ring and staring around at his three opponents.


Joey Styles:
This crowd has gone bananas for Bobby Lashley. There hasn’t been a more impressive youngster to come around in the last year than this man, and he’s got a chance to regain what he lost just four short months ago.

Tazz:
Lashley has had some epic battles with all three of these men in the past, but this one is different than that. Four men, the first one to pick up a pinfall or submission is the United States Champion. No champion’s advantage for William Regal here tonight.


***Bell Rings***





United States Championship; Fatal Four Way Match:
William Regal(c) vs. Finlay vs. Bobby Lashley vs. King Booker
w/Queen Sharmell, Elijah Burke & Monty Brown

The bell rings and Regal quickly slides out of the ring, to a bit of laughter from the crowd as everyone in the ring turns their attention to the Englishman. Regal waves them off, telling them to “go ahead and fight”, much to the chagrin of the other four competitors. Finlay and King Booker turn towards another and begin to bicker a bit but Bobby Lashley soon charges forward, and takes both superstars down with simultaneous clotheslines!!

Booker falls to the ground in pain and rolls out of the ring, soon being comforted by his wife and two protégés. Inside the ring, Finlay staggers back up to his feet and Lashley rocks him with a couple of stiff forearm shots to the face before shooting him off of the ropes. Finlay comes back and the Real Deal takes the Irishman up and over with a back body drop!!

King Booker slides back into the ring and sneaks up on Lashley, drilling the former army soldier in the back, causing the youngster to stagger into the corner. The Booker Man follows him in and rocks him with a couple of strong rights as the United States Champion William Regal slides back into the ring. Finlay stumbles back up to his feet and Regal walks up behind the Fighting Irish Bastard before rolling him up in a school boy!!

…1...

…………………….
…2...
… NO!
King Booker breaks it up!! Book then lifts Regal up to his feet and delivers a scintillating knife edge chop to his chest, and then a hard right hand … chop … right … chop … right, backing Regal into the corner! He then grabs the US Champion by the hand and delivers an Irish whip, causing Regal to run right into a strong clothesline from Finlay!! Regal gets back up to his feet and Lashley charges out of the corner, taking Regal down with another clothesline!! The Real Deal then lifts the Englishman back up to his feet before tossing him over the top rope and out of the ring!!

The crowd cheers as Lashley turns around but the Real Deal turns around into simultaneous boots to the gut from both Booker and Finlay! The former teammates stare at one another … and so the alliance of convenience begins. Booker and Finlay double team Lashley, backing the powerful youngster in the corner with rights and lefts! Once they’ve got Lashley’s back against the wall, worn out, the two veterans really go to town, letting everything fly, from right hands, to left hands, to boots and chops - Booker and Finlay do a real number on Lashley, causing the big man to slump down to the bottom turnbuckle.

Booker and Finlay each grab an arm of Lashley and pull him out of the corner, towards the center of the ropes before shooting him off. Lashley comes back and Booker and Finlay run him over with double clotheslines! Finlay then drops an elbow onto Lashley’s chest … and then Booker does the same … then Finlay … then Booker … then Finlay! The crowd boos the two men as Lashley crawls over onto his stomach and towards the edge of the ring, using the ropes to pull himself back up to a vertical base.

Lashley turns around and Booker hit’s a boot to the gut, before grabbing his hand and shooting him off of the ropes. Lashley comes back and Booker throws a clothesline and Lashley ducks it, bounces off of the ropes once more, avoids a leaping kick from Booker, hit’s the ropes once more, and then jumps up, taking Booker down with a flying shoulder tackle!! Booker hit’s the canvas and rolls out of the ring, flopping to the floor.

Finlay charges at him and Lashley catches the Irishman with a fierce back elbow, taking him down! Regal leaps onto the apron and Lashley runs over, dropping the champion with a right hand, causing him to fall onto the ring apron! The Real Deal turns back around and grabs a hold of Finlay, lifts him back up, backs him up against the robes and then shoots him off of the opposite side!! Finlay comes back and Lashley PRESSES HIM OVER HIS HEAD, showing off his inhuman strength before slamming him down to the canvas, and topping Finlay for the cover, hooking the far leg!!

…1...

…………………….
…2...
… NO!
REGAL BREAKS IT UP, pulling Lashley all the way to the outside of the ring! Regal then hits him with a couple of sharp left forearms before grabbing his hands and attempting to toss him into the steel steps … but Lashley counters, sending Regal into the steps with a thud!!!

Lashley then takes a stroll around ringside, and walks towards King Booker, but Elijah Burke and Monty Brown, Booker’s protégés, block Lashley!! Lashley waves them in, showing no fear, as Booker gets back up to his feet and runs around the ringside area. While Lashley argues with Booker’s two newest stable mates, the Book Man ends up behind Lashley and charges! The Real Deal quickly turns around and PRESSES BOOKER OVER HIS HEAD!!! LASHLEY THEN TOSSES BOOKER AT BURKE AND BROWN … BUT THEY CATCH HIM!!! The two youngsters smirk, thinking they’ve got the upper hand, which causes Lashley to smile before kicking the back of Booker hard, causing ALL THREE TO TUMBLE TO THE FLOOR!!!!!

The crowd begins a “Lashley” chant as Bobby climbs back into the ring, eyeing up a resting Finlay, who lies against the turnbuckle on the far side of the ring. Lashley closes in on him, lowers his shoulder and “drops the boom”, as he begins to lay into the Fighting Irish Bastard with strong shoulder thrust, after strong shoulder thrust! Lashley then pulls Finlay out of the corner, and drills him with a right hand, before backing him up against the ropes and shooting him off! Finlay comes back and Lashley wraps his arms around his waist before taking his bitter rival over with a Belly to Belly Suplex!! Lashley with the cover.

…1...

…………………….
…2...
… NO!
Finlay kicks out as King Booker rolls back into the ring. Lashley gets off of the cover and Booker charges but The Real Deal catches him with a boot coming in. Lashley then grabs the hand of Booker and shoots him into the corner. Lashley then backs into the far corner before charging ahead, looking for a SPEAR of sorts - but Booker quickly moves out of the way and LASHLEY GOES SHOULDER FIRST INTO THE STEEL TURNPOST!!!

The crowd groans as Lashley’s momentum sends him through the ropes, onto the apron, and eventually, to the outside on the floor. Sharmell, Burke and Brown cheer Booker on as the King moves towards the center of the ring and raises his pinky into the air, receiving a tremendous amount of heat! Unbeknownst to Booker, William Regal slides into the ring, sneaking up behind the former five time WCW Champion. Booker’s Court tell him to turn around but it’s too late as Regal applies a Full Nelson before dropping Booker on his head with a DRAGON SUPLEX … WITH A BRIDGE!!!

…1…

…………………..
…2…

… NO!
Booker kicks out! Regal lifts his former teammate back up to his feet and hits him with a forearm shot and follows up with a knee to the gut. Regal then tucks Booker’s head under his arm before lifting him up and dropping him with a vertical suplex, quickly floating over for another cover.

…1...

…………………..
…2...
… NO!
Booker kicks out and quickly, Regal lets go of the cover and grabs the hair of King Booker, looking to do more damage but Finlay is back up to his feet and the Fighting Irish Bastard strikes the first person he sees, the United States Champion. He hits Regal in the back, taking him down to the canvas! Regal quickly crawls away, managing his way into the corner, but Finlay follows him in, stomping away on the Englishman with hard boots! Bobby Lashley rolls back into the ring, still clearly favoring his shoulder while Finlay continues his assault on the US Champion.

Finlay quickly turns around and catches the Real Deal coming in, first with a boot to the gut and then with a kick to the injured right shoulder! Lashley groans in pain from the final shot as Finlay backs him up against the ropes before going for the Irish whip but Lashley counters and sends him in. Finlay comes back and Lashley takes him up and over with a one armed back body drop! The crowd pops for Lashley who soaks up the cheers … but soon gets dropped by a Shuffle Sidekick by King Booker!

Booker grabs the powerful youngster, lifts him back up to his feet and backs him into the corner. The Book Man then wraps Lashley’s right arm around the ring rope, attempting to torque the arm of the big man - and does a rather nice job as Lashley squirms in pain. Booker then grabs Lashley by the arm and shoots him into the corner before charging in - but Lashley gets a boot up and drives it right into Booker’s face! Booker stumbles backward in pain and Lashley comes charging in but Booker quickly reacts and lifts Lashley up, before slamming him down with a thunderous SPINEBUSTER!!! Book with the cover!

…1…

…………………..
…2…

… NO!
Finlay breaks it up, kicking Booker in the back. Finlay then lifts the King up and grabs a hold of his left arm and backing up a bit, before he damn near DECAPITATES him with a strong short-arm clothesline! Finlay prepares to go for the cover but Regal quickly charges in and shoves Finlay all the way to the outside of the ring!! Regal then covers Booker looking TO STEAL THE MATCH AND RETAIN THE TITLE!

…1…

…………………..
…2…

……………….
… NO!
Lashley breaks it up from his knees!! Lashley lifts Regal back up to his feet, and rocks the Englishman with a couple of hard right hands before backing him up against the ropes, grabbing a hand and shooting him off of the ropes. Regal hits the ropes but Finlay grabs his leg and yanks the United States Champion all the way to the outside of the ring!! The two grizzled veterans begin to let it all fly, swinging away on one another with incredible, unyielding shots, much to the delight of the audience! Lashley moves close to the edge of the ring, before running hard the opposite way, bouncing off of the ropes and coming back, AND FLYING OVER THE TOP ROPE AND TAKING BOTH MEN OUT WITH A VARIATION OF A PLANCHA!!!!

Ford Field erupts into a “HOLY SHIT” chant as Lashley, Regal and Finlay lay out on the outside of the ring, after that incredible display of athleticism by the huge Lashley. While it was definitely a sight to see, it definitely wasn’t the smartest move in the world as Lashley holds his shoulder in pain. Booker rolls under the bottom rope and out of the ring, walks over the destruction, grabs Lashley and tosses him under the rope and back into the ring.

Booker follows back in and lifts Lashley back up to his feet. He then kicks The Real Deal in the gut, bounces off of the ropes, comes back - AND GOES FOR THE SCISSORS KICK - but Lashley moves out of the way, avoiding contact. Booker charges and Lashley quickly lifts him onto his shoulder!! Lashley then charges ahead and hits a RUNNING POWERSLAM!!! But he can’t capitalize immediately as he holds his shoulder in pain. The pain finally subsides and Lashley covers him … though unable to hook the leg.

…1…

………………………………...
…2…

……………………
… NO!
Booker kicks out!! Lashley goes back to holding his shoulder as Finlay gets back up to his feet on the outside and Regal crawls around the ringside area. Lashley struggles back up to his feet, only to be grabbed by Finlay, tripped up, and pulled to the outside of the ring!! Finlay throws a right hand, but Lashley blocks it, hits a right hand of his own, grabs the Irishman and slams his head hard onto the ring apron!

Lashley then grabs Finlay and tosses him back under the ropes and into the ring. But before Lashley can even take another breath, Regal comes charging in and hits a strong knee to the back of his large challenger, sending Lashley flying into THE STEEL STEPS -- INJURED SHOULDER FIRST!!! Styles and Tazz put over the incredible instincts and veteran know-how shown by the United States Champion there.

Regal re-enters the ring and lifts Booker up to his feet and immediately drills his former teammate with a flurry of strong left handed elbows, before backing him up against the ropes and shooting him off. Booker comes back and Regal hits a left kick to the gut, keeling Booker over, before shooting off of the ropes and hitting The Booker Man with a right knee lift, taking the King down to the canvas!! Regal with the cover, hooking the far leg.

…1…

………………………………...
…2…
… NO!
Booker kicks out! Regal shows a bit of frustration, but soon refocuses, getting back up to his feet and dragging King Booker with him. He knees the five time WCW Champion in the gut before getting him into position for a DDT. But once he does, he hooks the arms of Booker and takes him up and over with a Double Arm Overhead Suplex!! Regal covers Booker once more, this time, putting his forearm right into his face!

…1…

…………………………….
…2…

… NO!
Finlay breaks it up! Finlay lifts Regal back up to his feet, hitting the Englishman with a right hand and then a stinging knife-edged chop before scooping him up and hitting a body slam. Finlay then shoots off of the ropes, leaps into the air and comes down onto the chest with a seated senton!! Finlay then floats over, going for the cover, with his forearm in the face of Regal.

…1…

………………………….
…2…
… NO!
Regal kicks out and Finlay rises back up to his feet as does King Booker. Finlay turns around and Booker hits him with a thumb to the eye! He then rocks Finlay with a hard right hand … then a knife-edge chops … then another right … then a chop … right … chop … right … chop … right, backing the Fighting Irish Bastard into the corner!

Regal gets back up to his feet and charges at Booker, throwing a clothesline, only for Booker to avoid the blow and catch him with a strong sidekick!! Regal hits the canvas and Booker quickly lifts him back up to his feet, before tossing him over the top rope and to the floor below. Lashley struggles back up onto the apron but Booker runs over and hits him with a strong sidekick right to the injured shoulder!!! Lashley crumbles off of the apron and to the floor below, holding his shoulder in pain.

Finlay comes out of the corner, looking to hit the now rolling Booker but the King catches him with a boot to the gut and bounces off of the ropes - LOOKING FOR THE SCISSORS KICK -- BUT FINLAY AVOIDS IT -- and throws a clothesline -- but Booker ducks under Finlay’s arm -- AND HITS THE BOOKEND ON FINLAY!!!! Booker with the cover!!!

…1…

…………………..
…2…

……………..
… NO!
FINLAY KICKS OUT!!! Booker looks at the ref in complete shock, holding up two fingers as Finlay ever so slowly rolls out of the ring and to the outside. Regal rolls back into the ring, gets back up to his feet, charges at King Booker, and hits him with a strong clothesline, taking both himself and Booker to the floor below!! Finlay gets up to his feet on the outside and grabs his shillelagh off of the canvas, and walks around ringside.

He grabs a hold of Regal and DRILLS HIM WITH THE SHILLELAGH, knocking him out!!! Finlay then grabs Booker and ROCKS HIM AS WELL!!! Burke and Brown move in towards Finlay but the Fighting Irishman holds them off, threatening them with the shillelagh before rolling into the ring, as Lashley does the same on the other side of the ring.

Finlay (with shillelagh) and Lashley square off in the middle of the ring, as Burke and Brown check on their motionless King. The Fighting Irish Bastard TRIES TO DRILL LASHLEY -- BUT LASHLEY GRABS IT and the two superstars fight for possession of the shillelagh!! Finally, Lashley SNATCHES IT FROM FINLAY!!! The crowd pops but Finlay does not panic, instead, delivering a stiff kick to Lashley’s injured shoulder!!

Lashley groans in pain as Finlay lifts The Real Deal up and gets him into position FOR THE CELTIC CROSS -- AND HITS IT!! The crowd boos as Finlay mouths “It’s over” before covering Lashley, hooking the leg!

…1…

…………………………
…2…

………………………………..................

… THRE-NO!
LASHLEY KICKS OUT!!!! The crowd goes completely wild as Lashley’s shoulder shoots off of the canvas! Finlay gets back up to his feet, pissed. The Fighting Irishman kicks the ropes in anger. Even grabbing the referee and telling him it was a three count, causing the ref to respond by holding up two fingers. Finlay angrily stomps away on Lashley without a calculated purpose - pure frustration taking over at this point.

Finlay then grabs Lashley and lifts him back up to his feet before shooting the Real Deal into the corner. Finlay then charges in but Lashley charges out of it AND DRILLS HIM WITH THE SPEAR!!!! Burke and Brown hurriedly attempt to revive Booker, seeing that the end is near as Lashley struggles to lift Finlay back up to a vertical base, still clearly favoring his shoulder. Lashley tucks The Fighting Irish Bastard between his legs and lifts him on to his left shoulder, showing incredible strength with one arm, BEFORE SLAMMING HIM DOWN TO THE CANVAS WITH THE DOMINATOR!!!!! Lashley then turns Finlay over onto his back and covers him, hooking the far leg as Burke and Brown quickly throw Booker into the ring!

…1…

……………………….………..
…2…

……………..
… THREE!!!
-BOOKER BREAKS IT UP, BUT IT’S TOO LATE!!!
Winner: AND NEW United States Champion, BOBBY LASHLEY at 15:24.


The crowd cheers as Bobby Lashley pops back out to his feet and holds his arms out, regaining the United States Championship. Regal comes to on the outside and is completely livid, watching the man who he defeated for the championship, now as the new champion - without being pinned!


Joey Styles:
We have a new United States Champion in Bobby Lashley! What a night this is turning out to be here at WrestleMania!

Tazz:
Lashley regains the United States Title that he lost in December at Armageddon, and he wins it back against three of the most capable veterans that you’ll find anywhere in this business. Big ups to The Real Deal.


Lashley is handed the United States Championship and climbs the turnbuckle, showing it off to this receptive crowd. Burke and Brown enter the ring as Lashley climbs down from the turnbuckle and stand in the Real Deal’s way. Lashley looks the two young stars up and down … and they soon part, allowing Lashley to walk through, before attending to their fallen King Booker.
Lashley once more raises the U.S. Title to the crowd, before heading back up the entrance ramp.



***



Backstage, Batista appears on screen to a tremendous amount of heat. The Animal sits on a chair and laces up his boots, World Heavyweight Championship hanging up behind him.

Ric Flair walks in, carrying the Money in the Bank briefcase, all smiles.

Ric Flair:
WOOOOO!!! Big Dave!!

Batista stands up and he and Ric embrace.

Ric Flair:
Did you see it!? Can you believe it!? WOOOO!! Mr. Money in the Bank, The Nature Boy Ric Flair!! We’re taking over!!

Batista:
I saw you out there, Ric. RVD, Sabu, the Hardys, Kenny, none of those chumps could hang with you. Money in the Bank!!

Ric Flair:
I’m telling ya, Dave, once you crush that platinum haired chump here tonight, me and you are gonna have ourselves one hell of a night out on the time!! WOOOO!! WrestleMania!!

Batista:
Kennedy’s done. No need to worry about that. As a matter of fact, I’ll crush him in five. More time to party, ha-ha.

Ric Flair:
WOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! I’ma get showered up, you keep doing your thing.

Flair struts into the bathroom of the locker room, huge smile on his face, repeating “Money, money, money in the bank” as Batista finishes lacing up his boots without a care in the world - no fear of his challenger.


Cut away.


The #1 contender, Mr. Kennedy, appears on screen warming up for his main event match up tonight, receiving a thunderous ovation. Kennedy doesn’t seem too confident or nervous either way, merely focused on the task at hand as he continues to warm up in his locker room.


Back to ringside.



***



“AIN’T NO STOPPIN ME … NOW!!!”



***FIRESTORM***

SmackDown!’s former WWE Tag Team Champions, Shelton Benjamin and Gregory Helms, step out onto the WrestleMania stage, receiving a decent amount of heat but some cheers as well from the sold out audience.


Tony Chimel:
The following contest is an eight man INTER-PROMOTIONAL tag team contest, and it is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first … representing SmackDown! … at a combined weight of 445 pounds … GREGORY HELMS AND SHEEELTON BENJAMIN!!!


Benjamin and Helms slide into the ring, moving to opposite sides of the ring - each man climbing a turnbuckle and raising their hands.


Joey Styles:
Quite possibly the best tag team on the planet right now, Benjamin and Helms have got it all. They’ve got the speed, they’ve got the strength and the agility and it may be only a matter of time before they have the tag team gold around their waists once more.

Tazz:
That may be true, Styles, but tonight isn’t about that. Tonight is about brand pride and proving that Friday nights on SmackDown! are home to the best tag teams in the world.


***LONDON CALLING***

The crowd gives a nice ovation as the current WWE Tag Team Champions, The Hooligans, Paul London and Brian Kendrick, walk out onto the stage before sprinting full speed down the entrance ramp.


Tony Chimel:
And their tag team partners … at a combined weight of 380 pounds … representing SmackDown! … the WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIOOOONS … Brian Kendrick and Paul London … THE HOOLIGANS!!!


London and Kendrick slide into the ring and each take a turnbuckle before back-flipping off of it and removing their masks. L&K then take a look at Benjamin and Helms who look on skeptically.


Joey Styles:
It was a little over a week ago when London and Kendrick went TWENTY MINUTES - twenty of the most exhilarating minutes that I have ever witnessed against Benjamin and Helms. How are these two teams going to coexist here tonight?

Tazz:
Our boss, Stephanie McMahon, laid down the law to these two tag teams here tonight. She will not be embarrassed on the grandest stage of them all, with millions watching. These guys BETTER coexist, or else …


***PAPARAZZI***

Random people roll out the red carpet all the way to the bottom of the ramp and the crowd delivers a mixed reaction - obviously more geared towards heat as the most successful tag team of the current generation, MNM, walk out onto the stage dawned in their trademark fur coats while Melina is dressed as proactively and tantalizing as always.


Lillian Garcia:
And their opponents … from Hollywood, California … accompanied to the ring by MELINA … representing Raw … at a combined weight of 440 pounds, Joey Mercury - Johnny Nitro … M - N - M!!!


The men in the crowd let out whistles as Melina does her signature split entrance and the former tag champs soon follow.


Jim Ross:
You may not like their arrogant attitude, or their pompous behavior, but there is no denying the fantastic talent that MNM has! Multiple time tag team champions on both Raw and SmackDown!. Won the WWE Tag Team Titles from Rey Mysterio and the late, great Eddie Guerrero on their FIRST NIGHT! It doesn’t come much better than Mercury and Nitro.

Jerry Lawler:
Or Melina. She’s looking hot tonight -- like always, J.R.!

Jim Ross:
That’s why you’re the best color commentator in the business, King.


***GUILTY***

The World Tag Team Champions, America’s Most Wanted, “The Wildcat” Chris Harris and “The Tennessee Cowboy” James Storm enter the arena with the talented Gail Kim by their side, receiving a strong reception from the sold out Ford Field in Detroit.


Lillian Garcia:
And their tag team partners … at a combined weight of 465 pounds … accompanied to the ring by GAIL KIM … representing Raw … the World Tag Team Champions CHRIS HARRIS - JAMES STORM … AMW, AMERICAAA’S MOOOST WANTED!!!


Harris, Storm and Kim step into the ring. The tag champs then take their shades and leather coats off, while eyeing up the other six men in the ring.


Jim Ross:
America’s Most Wanted came on the scene in September of last year and much like their partners tonight and bitter rivals as of late, MNM, they won the tag belts on their very first night. They haven’t looked back since.

Jerry Lawler:
I’ve got to admit, I was a bit skeptical of these guys when they first came to Monday Night Raw. But you’re absolutely right, they’ve proven to be a top tag team on Raw. And now they need to help MNM pick up a win over SmackDown! here tonight.


***Bell Rings***





Eight Man Inter-Promotional Tag Team Match:
The Hooligans, Shelton Benjamin & Gregory Helms vs.
America’s Most Wanted
w/Gail Kim and MNM w/Melina

Six of the wrestlers exit onto the apron and we’re left with just the legal men for this match up - representing Monday Night Raw, “The Wildcat” Chris Harris and for Friday Night SmackDown!, the former Tag and Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms. Harris and Helms move around the ring for a bit, circling each other, before closing in on one another, before locking up in the middle of the ring in a collar and elbow tie up.

Harris quickly goes to the side headlock, attempting to wear the smaller wrestler down. The Wildcat applies pressure, really wrenching it in, but Helms has had enough, quickly backing Harris into the ring ropes and shooting him off. Harris comes back and hits a strong shoulder block, taking the former Cruiserweight Champion down!

Harris then bounces off of the ropes as Helms flips over onto the stomach. The Wildcat leaps over him and Helms gets up, expecting him to shoot off of the ropes, but Harris has other plans in mind, stopping his momentum and once again locking in a side headlock! Harris applies pressure but this time, Helms hits him with a couple of strong forearms to the ribs, before backing up into the ring ropes and shooting him off. Harris comes back again and hits another strong shoulder block, taking him down!

Harris bounces off the ropes as Helms flips over onto his gut. Harris leaps over him and bounces off the ropes once more as Helms gets up to his feet. Helms then leaps up and takes Harris down with a leaping calf kick to the face! Both men get back up to their feet, Harris a bit more wobbly than Helms. The Wildcat charges at Helms and he takes Harris down with a lightning quick arm drag! Both men get back and once more, Harris charges and once again, Helms takes the charging superstar down with an arm drag!

Harris staggers back up to his feet and Helms grabs him, backing him into the corner. Helms then lights him up with a knife edge chop, then a boot to the gut, before he grabs his arms and looks to shoot him into the opposite corner, but Harris counters the Irish whip and sends Helms in. Harris charges in as well, but Helms quickly leaps up and over the oncoming Harris, landing behind him. Harris turns around and Helms grabs him around the neck, snapping off a snap mare, before shooting off of the ropes and catching The Wildcat right in the face with a dropkick! Helms with the cover, the first one of the match up.

…1…

…………………
… NO!
Harris kicks out! Helms lifts him back up to his feet and brings him over towards the corner. Helms raises his hand up and it’s Brian Kendrick who takes the tag. Spanky enters the ring and grabs a hold of Harris’s arm, twisting it and backs him up against the ropes. He then attempts to shoot him off but Harris counters and sends Kendrick into the ropes with the Irish whip. Kendrick comes back and Harris throws a clothesline, which Spanky ducks. Kendrick then bounces off of the ropes once more before coming back and taking the AMW member down with a hurricanrana!!! Kendrick with the cover.

…1…

…………………
… NO!
Harris kicks out once more and both superstars get back up to their feet. Kendrick looks for a right hand but The Wildcat blocks it, and hits Spanky with a strong knee lift to the gut before going over and tagging in the other member of AMW, “The Tennessee Cowboy” James Storm. Storm enters and charges at Kendrick but the tag champion quickly reacts, taking Storm down with a drop toe hold! Kendrick promptly gets back up to his feet and bounces off of the ropes and then catches Storm with a dropkick to the side of the face!

Storm gets back up to his feet, holding his face and Kendrick attempts to capitalize, looking for a stiff right kick, but Storm blocks it, then drills Kendrick with a strong right hand. Kendrick stumbles backward and Storm backs him up even further, into the ropes, before looking to shoot him off. But Spanky counters and shoots Storm off with the Irish whip. Kendrick gets set too early and Storm makes him pay, scooping him up before bringing him down to the canvas with a body slam. Storm then bounces off of the ropes and comes back, dropping a leg on Spanky’s throat before floating over for the cover.

…1…

…………………
…2…
… NO!
Kendrick kicks out and Storm gets back up to his feet, grabbing a hold of Spanky and lifting him back up to his feet. Storm then measures him up and delivers a HARD right hand to the face of Kendrick, clearly stunning him, before grabbing him by the hand, backing him against the ropes and shooting him off. Kendrick comes back and Storm throws a clothesline, which Kendrick ducks, bouncing off of the ropes once more. Kendrick comes back once more and takes Storm down with a spinning wheel kick!!

Storm stumbles back up to his feet, using the ropes to pull himself up and Kendrick charges in, looking for a leaping forearm, but Storm quickly moves out of the way and Kendrick crashes chest first onto the turnbuckle! Kendrick hits hard, staggering backward out of the corner and Storm lifts him up before delivering a back drop, center of the ring!! The Tennessee Cowboy then walks over towards his corner and raises his hand up, which is soon slapped by former World Tag Team Champion Joey Mercury, tagging himself into the match up.

Mercury enters the ring and immediately mounts Kendrick, beginning to rain down right fists on the face of the talented Hooligan! The ref gets up to the count of five and Mercury, lets up, getting back up to his feet and bringing Kendrick up with him. Mercury then hits a knee to the midsection, tucks Kendrick under his arm, slings Kendrick’s arm over his shoulder and lifts him, planting him with a perfect vertical suplex in the middle of the ring!

Mercury gets back up to his feet, dragging Kendrick up with him and then shoots him into the corner. The first M of MNM then charges into the corner, but Kendrick gets his feet up, driving them into the face of Mercury, knocking him backward! Kendrick then rapidly goes onto the apron before ascending to the top turnbuckle. Spanky then leaps off of the top rope - CONNECTING WITH CROSS BODY - WITH A COVER!!

…1…

…………………
…2…
… NO!
Mercury kicks out and Kendrick gets back up to his feet, walks over to his corner, and tags in Shelton Benjamin, to a pop from the smarks in the crowd. Benjamin steps into the ring and immediately begins to light up Mercury with right hands, before shooting off of the ropes. Shelton comes back but Mercury measures him up … and hits him with a perfect thumb to the eye!! Mercury then delivers a boot to the gut of Benjamin, before he grabs his hand and shoots him into the Raw corner of the ring.

Mercury follows in and tags his MNM tag team partner, Johnny Nitro, causing Melina to let out one of her blood curling screams. Nitro enters the ring and drills Benjamin with a couple of right hands, backing him up against the ropes before shooting him off. Shelton comes back and Nitro scoops him up, and drops him with a body slam. Nitro then backs up a bit, measures Shelton and then handstands, quickly twists and hits Benjamin with his patented Break-dance Leg Drop!! Nitro with the cover, hooking the far leg.

…1…

…………………
…2…
… NO!
Benjamin kicks out and Nitro gets back up to his feet. Frustrated, Nitro delivers a couple of nasty stomps to the chest of Shelton. Nitro then grabs Benjamin and lifts him back up to his feet. Nitro then grabs his hand and shoots him into the opposite corner, before charging in, looking for a shoulder thrust but Shelton leaps over the top of him and sprints towards the opposite corner, LEAPING TO THE TOP TURNBUCKLE!!! Nitro turns around and charges, but SHELTON LEAPS OFF THE TOP AND TAKES HIM DOWN WITH A CROSS BODY!! The two lay out on the canvas as the referee begins his ten count.

…One…
…Two…
…Three…
…Four…
…Five…
BOTH MEN KIP BACK UP TO THEIR FEET!!!

The crowd “oohs” and “ahs” as Nitro charges at Benjamin but the former Golden Gopher takes Nitro down with a quick arm drag. Both men get back up to their feet and once more Nitro charges and once more, Benjamin goes for an arm drag, but Nitro counters, fighting him off and holding his position. Nitro then delivers a stiff kick to his side, before running towards the ropes, spring boarding off of the middle one and hitting a sharp kick to Benjamin’s face, taking him down!!

Nitro takes a second to catch his breath and then gets back up to his feet, bringing Benjamin up with him as well. Nitro tucks Benjamin under his arm, getting him set for a vertical suplex. He then lifts Shelton up into the air but Shelton shows his incredible athleticism, keeping his grip as he lands behind Nitro, and drops the tag champion with a neck breaker!! Benjamin gets back up and grabs the leg of Nitro, drags him over to the SmackDown! corner and tags in WWE Tag Team Champion, Paul London.

London steps in and grabs a hold of Nitro, lifting him back up to his feet, before attempting to shoot him into the corner but Nitro counters, and sends London in. Nitro follows him in but London leaps up and over the top of Nitro, waits for him to spin around and then takes him down with a dropkick! Nitro stumbles back up to his feet after a bit and throws a clothesline, which London ducks, then leaps up and snaps off a Hurricanranas! London then looks for another maneuver, bouncing off of the ropes … but MELINA grabs his leg, stopping him. London turns around, frustrated before turning back to Nitro - who is back up to his feet. Nitro kicks London in the gut before planting him with a DDT!!

Nitro gets back up to his feet and tags in The Wildcat Chris Harris. Harris lifts one half of The Hooligans back up to his feet, grabs the hand of Paul London and shoots him into the ropes. London comes back and Harris lifts him up before slamming him to the canvas with a strong power slam!!! The Wildcat with the cover, hooking the far leg.

…1…

…………………
…2…
… NO!
London kicks out and Harris gets back up to his feet, dragging London up with him and towards the corner. Harris then tags Nitro back in. Nitro hits a boot to the gut before grabbing the arm of London and shooting him into the corner. Nitro then charges in and hits a strong knee right to the gut, causing London to gasp wildly for air!! Nitro then grabs London by the hair and pulls him out of the corner before turning him inside out and dropping him with a neck breaker, much to the liking of Melina, who lets out another shriek! Nitro with another cover, forearm to the face of the WWE Tag Team Champion.

…1…

…………………
…2…
… NO!
London kicks out again. Nitro slaps the mat in frustration, before getting back up to his feet. Nitro grabs London and brings him up as well, before he grabs his hand and shoots him into the corner. He charges in but London gets both of his feet up and into the face of Nitro, knocking him back! London charges out of the corner and almost runs into a sidekick from Nitro, which he ducks and turns back around, squaring the MNM member up, before leaping up and connecting with THE DROPSAULT!!!

The crowd begins to get into the contest as the two divas at ringside, Melina and Gail Kim, begin to clap. Both London and Nitro eventually make it to their opposing corners and make the tags, Nitro to Chris Harris and London to Shelton Benjamin!! Both superstars come in and its Shelton who strikes first, taking The Wildcat down with a right hand! Nitro charges and he’s dropped with a right! Harris gets back up to his feet and Benjamin throws another right, which he manages to avoid this time! Both men turn back around to face one another and Benjamin goes for his big roundhouse kick, which The Wildcat ducks and it takes out the uprising Nitro!!

Harris kicks Benjamin in the gut, grabs his hand and shoots him off the ropes. Shelton comes back, ducking a right hand, hitting the ropes once more and taking Harris down with a flying forearm! Benjamin then waits on Harris to get up and once he does SHELTON GOES FOR THE T-BONE SUPLEX -- but Harris fights him off, hitting several hard elbows to the side of his head, knocking him for a loop as his partner, Storm, steps in!

Harris crumbles to his feet as Benjamin turns around - AND IS DROPPED BY A STORM SUPERKICK!!! Kendrick steps into the ring and kicks Storm in the gut, grabs him around his neck and runs to the turnbuckle -- HITTING THE SLICED BREAD #2!!! The crowd cheers Spanky on but soon, Mercury spins him around, before PLANTING HIM WITH A DDT!!! The building goes nuts as this match completely breaks down!! Mercury smirks but unbeknownst to him, London climbs the turnbuckle!! Mercury turns around and London leaps off the top and takes him down, HITTING A MISSLE DROPKICK!!!! London gets back up to his feet BUT HE’S CHOPPED IN HALF BY A SPEAR FROM HARRIS!!! But before Harris can even get all the way back up to a vertical base, HELMS TAKES HIS HEAD OFF WITH A SHINING WIZARD!!!

Helms gets back up to his feet and Nitro charges in, hitting a boot to the gut, bringing this match down from it’s fever pitch. Nitro then drills him with several hard right handed forearms before grabbing his hand and shooting Helms off of the ropes. Nitro gets set too early and Helms drills him with a boot to the face, causing Nitro to stumble backward. Helms then charges forward and TAKES HIMSELF AND NITRO OVER THE TOP ROPE AND TO THE FLOOR WITH A CLOTHESLINE!!

Melina checks on Nitro as the ring has now been cleared with only a dazed Benjamin and Harris getting up to their feet inside the ring. Benjamin charges but Harris quickly reacts, lifting Benjamin up, spinning AND PLANTING HIM WITH A SPINEBUSTER!!! COVER, hooking the leg!!

…1…

…………………
…2…

……………………
… NO!
Shelton kicks out!! Harris does not get overly frustrated, instead, letting out a sigh, before getting back up to his feet and exiting onto the apron. Harris then climbs to the top turnbuckle -- BUT BENJAMIN KIPS UP TO HIS FEET!!! Shelton then runs forward AND LEAPS TO THE TOP TURNBUCKLE!!! The two superstars take their second to get set and Benjamin takes his left arm and wraps it around the neck of Harris before --- GOING FOR A T-BONE SUPLEX OFF OF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE - AND HITS IT!!!!!!!!!!!

SHELTON WITH THE COVER~!!!!!!

…1…

…………………
…2…

……………………
… THREE!!!!!!
Winners: Shelton Benjamin, Gregory Helms, Paul London & Brian Kendrick at 13:01.


Ford Field stands and applauds, mostly for the incredible, fast-paced effort of all eight men involved in the contest here tonight. Helms re-enters the ring and helps Benjamin back up to his feet, as the SmackDown superstars pick up an incredible win over the best two tandems that Raw have to offer.


Jerry Lawler:
I knew Raw wouldn’t be able to trust that damn AMW!!!

Tazz:
It has nothing to do with America’s Most Wanted or MNM, Lawler. Those guys are a couple of great tag teams, but they just couldn’t hang with the two best tag teams in the world and they’re from Friday Night SmackDown, baby!

Jim Ross:
That was a hell of a match up - a hell of an inter-promotional match up, between four future MEGASTARS of this industry. Win, lose or draw, we saw one hell of a performance from the future of the WWE.

Joey Styles:
Absolutely, J.R., but SmackDown has struck first blood here tonight, picking up the inter-brand win over Monday Night Raw.


MNM and Melina storm up the entrance ramp, angry and fatigued, as Gail Kim helps America’s Most Wanted on the outside. Inside the ring, Benjamin, Helms, London and Kendrick take a turnbuckle, and raise up their arms, receiving a nice ovation from Ford Field once more.

Quick shot backstage, of Stephanie McMahon cheering, while Coachman shakes his head in disgust.



***



Backstage, SmackDown interviewer Kristal Marshall stands by, microphone in hand, with Allison Danger and the Cruiserweight Championship, The Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels.

Daniels looks as confident as always, dressed in his robe and shades, while Allison Danger holds his title belt.

Kristal Marshall:
Ladies and gentlemen, I’m standing by with the man who will be taking on Rey Mysterio in just a few moments, the Cruiserweight Champion of the world, “The Fallen Angel” Christopher Daniels.

The crowd boos, causing Daniels to smirk.

Kristal Marshall:
Chris, you’re only minutes away from the biggest match up of your career, the biggest challenge of your title reign, and what could be the crowning moment of your legacy if it goes your way, -

Christopher Daniels:
If? If it goes my way?

Kristal Marshall:
Yeah, if i-

Christopher Daniels:
When you’re talking about The Fallen Angel, you’re no longer dealing with if, ands, or buts, you’re dealing with absolutes, a lack of doubt, a lack of uncertainty, there are no unknown variables. Because when The Fallen Angel is involved there can only be ONE outcome and so far in my WWE career, there HAS only been ONE outcome.

Daniels takes off his shades and hands them to Danger, looking serious, his eyes showing quite a bit of intensity, very much a change of pace from his laid back, arrogant style.

Christopher Daniels:
When I found the Cruiserweight Division, it was dead, lying in a puddle of obscurity and nothingness. Not only was I handed the ball, I took the ball and ran with it, establishing the Cruiserweight Division as the most exciting division in wrestling, re-establishing the Cruiserweight Championship as a world title, and establishing MYSELF as the best wrestler in the world.

Mixed reaction, some fans getting behind Daniels.

Christopher Daniels:
Not the best Cruiserweight, the best wrestler in the world … period. Chris Sabin, one of the best young wrestlers on SmackDown; beaten by The Fallen Angel. Dean Malenko, a cruiserweight icon; beaten and embarrassed by The Fallen Angel. Chavo Guerrero -

Daniels smirks.

Christopher Daniels:
Rey Mysterio’s best friend, Chavo Guerrero; beaten, embarrassed, and retired by Christopher Daniels. It’s no coincidence, it’s not happening by chance, the fact is I am simply better than everyone else and that includes Rey Mysterio. Tonight, with thousands of fans watching, Rey Mysterio will fall at the feet of The Fallen Angel and I will not only expose Rey Mysterio for the overrated superstar that he is, I will expose myself, the WWE’s worst kept secret, as the best wrestler to ever step foot in a WWE ring.

Another mixed reaction, as Daniels gets his shades back from Danger and puts them back on with a smirk.

Christopher Daniels:
And that’s not just the truth, that’s the gospel … according to The Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels.

Daniels and Allison walk off camera, leaving Kristal to look on.


Cut elsewhere backstage.


Rey Mysterio sits on a chair in front of a monitor, next to Chris Sabin and Mysterio shakes his head, after watching Daniels’ promo.

Rey then begins to warm up, adjusting his mask, when … Chavo Guerrero and Dean Malenko walk into his locker room. The two non-active wrestlers hug Mysterio and shake the hand of the young Sabin. Malenko, Sabin and Chavo wish Mysterio good luck, before Rey heads out of the locker room, looking more focused than every as he heads down the hallway.



***



Daniels-Mysterio Video Package:
- The Fallen Angel debuts in the WWE and wins the Cruiserweight Championship within a month at No Mercy in October.

- Daniels then has an impressive feud with Chris Sabin, which ends a brutal No Holds Barred Match at the Royal Rumble, which sees Daniels retain.

- Though Daniels has been mightily impressive, he feels disrespected.

Christopher Daniels:
The fact is that you people and more importantly, this company, is disrespecting the Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels and that’s something that just won’t be tolerated.

This goes out to any former Cruiserweight or former Light Heavyweight Champion, not only in this company, not only in ANY company in North America, but to ANY company around the WORLD, all you have to do is show up and you get a shot at my Cruiserweight Championship at No Way Out, under the bright lights of pay per view.
That’s right. If you’re a former Cruiserweight Champion, you show up and get a shot…. I don’t care if Rey Mysterio finally gets off his lazy ass, stops ducking me and comes back to the Cruiserweight division where he belongs. Anybody.

- The next week, Daniels continues to talk crap.

Christopher Daniels:
Hell, earlier tonight, I realized that Rey Mysterio got himself booked into a six man elimination tag at No Way Out, once again, DUCKING me! Rey, how about you stop hiding behind your mask, hit the gym and bring your ass back to the Cruiserweight division where you belong so I can beat you dead center in this ring!!He’s afraid, just like every other so called “legendary cruiserweight” wrestler in the world.

- Dean Malenko is the one to accept Daniels’ challenge, taking offense to The Fallen Angel’s comments.

Dean Malenko:
You’ve got a lot of guts, coming out here and insulting Mysterio and guys like that, who paved the way for cruiserweights and that styles -- YOUR style of wrestling here in the United States and it’s about time you showed him, me and every other wrestler in the back, the proper respect. And if you’re not willing to do that, I’ll do it for you.

- At No Way Out, despite an awesome effort, Daniels defeats Malenko, retaining the Cruiserweight Championship.

- Later on in the night, Daniels challenges Mysterio to a match one on one, but Rey declines, saying he’s done with the Cruiserweight Division.

- The following SmackDown, Daniels challenges him again, deciding to get more personal.

Christopher Daniels:
When are you gonna step up to the plate, Mysterio? Just like I told you at No Way Out, you need to stop ducking me and come back to the place that everyone around here seems to think you built. Personally, I think you’re nothing more than an overrated spot monkey who isn’t fit to lace up my boots but if it takes beating you dead in the center of this ring to show every fan around the world just who the best is, then I’m more than willing to expose you for the overrated joke that you are.

Rey Mysterio:
I’ve already said I’ve been there and done that and I’ve moved on, so, the answer is still no.

Christopher Daniels: That’s a true shame. I never thought of you as someone to back down from a DIRECT challenge, Mysterio, but I guess you know that you would never be able to hang with the Fallen Angel, the best cruiserweight in the business today.

- Chavo Guerrero has heard enough and challenges Daniels to a match. Daniels accepts for Saturday Night’s Main Event, but wants Chavo’s career on the line. Chavo accepts.

- At SNME, despite a valiant effort, Daniels defeats Mysterio, taunting Mysterio the whole way. The Fallen Angel and Mysterio have a stare down as Daniels just ended the career of Chavo’s best friend.

- Rey speaks.

Rey Mysterio:
Chavo shouldn’t have been out there tonight. DAMN! … Christopher Daniels didn’t want to face Chavo tonight, he wanted me. He wanted to face me … and I wouldn’t do it … I couldn’t do it. I don’t know why I couldn’t face Daniels. Maybe it was because I was done with the Cruiserweight division - that’s what I told myself … but that’s not the reason.

The Fallen Angel Chris Daniels is one of the greatest wrestlers in the business - not just cruiserweight, one of the best wrestlers in the world. And over the past few years, I’ve gotten lazy. I’ve gotten complacent. I can admit it, I’ve been happy with just taking in the cheers from the great fans, staying in the heavyweight division, where I know that no one can keep up with me.

And when Daniels challenged me, I knew that there was no way that I could keep up with him. He goes out there and beats Dean Malenko - one of the greatest cruiserweights ever. Daniels goes out there and beats Chris Sabin - the future of the Cruiserweight division - one of the top young athletes in the industry.

So how could I be able to keep up with The Fallen Angel, years removed from the prime of my career, after all of the ankle and knee surgeries? How could I honestly go out there and go move for move, hold for hold with Daniels. I couldn’t and I turned the match down. And because of me - because of my indecision, because of my own self doubt - one of my best friends in this world, has to sit at home now, and stop doing what he loves to do. Because of me.

But there’s nothing I can do about that. There’s nothing I can do for Chavo except promise that his loss wasn’t in vain. And it wasn’t in vain. It’s gotten me more motivated, more determined, and more pissed off, than I have been for the past ten years of my career. Chris Daniels, you want me? You got me.

Me and you, the Cruiserweight Championship on the line, at WrestleMania 23!
Fallen Angel, you want to make a name for yourself by beating Dean Malenko, you want to make a name for yourself by retiring Chavo Guerrero, you want to make a name for yourself by defeating Rey Mysterio on the grandest stage of them all?? Your challenge has been accepted! I don’t know what’s going to happen once we get to WrestleMania, except, I can promise you that you’re going to be in for the fight of your life come April the first!

- The match is on for WrestleMania 23.

Christopher Daniels:
Ever since I started competing in the sport of professional wrestling, the word “cruiserweight” has always been defined by Rey Mysterio. He’s been the popular, he’s the one that all the fans came to see, he was quite simply the most exciting figure in the sport.

- Clips of Rey Mysterio lighting it up in the lucha invasion and the cruiser renaissance in WCW & ECW invasion during the mid 90s.

Christopher Daniels:
But Josh, that was long ago. Now I and I alone am the Cruiserweight Division. The Rey Mysterio Era is long gone and I close the lid on the coffin at WrestleMania 23 on the biggest stage of all time! And that’s the gospel … according to the Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels.

- Clips of Daniels Cruiserweight Title run defeating superstar after superstar.

Chavo Guerrero:
A lot of people could say this match up should’ve taken place so I didn’t have to put my career on the line … but that’s neither here nor there.

- Mysterio watches, holding his head down.

Chavo Guerrero: It’s gonna be a great match up, no doubt about that. As I’ve said before, Daniels is a great competitor but if he thinks he’s just gonna run through Rey-Rey and keep that belt, he’s in for a HUGE shock at WrestleMania. Rey Mysterio lays down for nobody.

Christopher Daniels:
Then why was it, Rey?! You know it’s the truth, Mysterio. That’s why you finally made up your mind to take me on at WrestleMania, because you knew it was your fault that Chavo got retired, you KNEW it was your cowardice that sent your best friend out on his ass at Saturday Night’s Main Event. You KNEW it was YOUR fault that Chavo -

Rey Mysterio:
I accepted your challenge because I did feel guilt about Chavo, but now I realize why I’m gonna fight you at WrestleMania - why I’m going to BEAT you at WrestleMania 23. It’s not just about the title, it’s not just about pride, you decided to make this personal and believe me, Chris, it’s real personal.

At WrestleMania this Sunday, you’re not just gonna get the best Rey Mysterio you’ve seen in a long while, you’re gonna get the best Rey Mysterio you’ve EVER seen. This isn’t gonna be a throwback to the ECW or WCW Rey Mysterio, this is gonna be a brand new Mysterio, a Mysterio that’s gonna take you on, headfirst, and give you the worst beating of your life!

- Mysterio and Daniels brawling on the last show before the PPV, as we fade out on an angry Rey Mysterio.



***



***DILATED TEENS***

The smarks go crazy with applause while 70% of the crowd erupts into heat, as “The Fallen Angel” Christopher Daniels makes his way out onto the WrestleMania stage for the first time in his career. Allison Danger soon follows, carrying his Cruiserweight Championship, as the two soon come down to the ring.


Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is for … the CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP!!!
(Crowd cheers) Introducing first … from The City of Angels … weighing in at 210 pounds … accompanied to the ring by Allison Danger … the CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION … THE FALLEN ANGEL … CHRISTOPHER DANIELS!!!


Daniels steps into the ring as Danger shows off his championship to the crowd. The Fallen Angel takes the cloth off of his head before taking off his robe as well, more than ready for this match up.


Joey Styles:
Some have contended that The Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels is the greatest Cruiserweight Champion in WWE history. There is a STRONG case for it. He dethroned Chris Sabin at No Mercy in October of last year. He went on to retain against Jamie Noble and Kid Kash. He defended it successfully against Sabin at the Royal Rumble in one of the most exciting title matches we’ve ever seen. Daniels defeated cruiserweight legend Dean Malenko at No Way Out. And RETIRED Chavo Guerrero at Saturday Night’s Main Event. You’d be hard pressed to find a better opening run than that.

Tazz:
No doubt, no doubt, The Fallen Angel has owned the Cruiserweight Division for the past six months without equal. But tonight he faces someone of a different breed. No disrespect to any of the stars you just mentioned - because they’re all great athletes and WWE superstars in their own right - they just aren’t Rey Mysterio.


*PYRO EXPLOSION*



***BOOYAKA BOOYAKA 619***

Rey Mysterio shoots out onto the stage, receiving a great ovation from the fans in attendance. Mysterio seems more than ready as he stares down into the ring at Daniels, whom doesn’t even look at Mysterio, instead, talking to Allison Danger, facing the other direction.


Tony Chimel:
And his opponent … from San Diego, California … weighing in at 185 pounds … THE FORMER MULTI-TIME WWE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION … REY MYSTERRRRRIOOO!!!!


Mysterio steps into the ring, and eyes up Daniels, who’s now turned around and stares at his opponent. Mysterio turns around in the corner and begins to recite a prayer as is customary before his matches.


Joey Styles:
Tazz, you and I had the privilege of seeing Rey Mysterio in lucha libre action in ECW. I got a chance to call some of his matches. We saw him in cruiserweight action in World Championship Wrestling. And you got the opportunity to call his cruiserweight matches early in his WWE career. Can Rey Mysterio hang with the best cruiserweight in the free world today in 2007?

Tazz:
Ask Chris Jericho, ask Psichosis, ask Chavo Guerrero if Rey Mysterio can still cut it. Mysterio is an icon in this division and has always gone against the odds and come out successfully.


Allison Danger hands the referee the Cruiserweight Championship belt and the ref shows it to both Daniels and Mysterio, before raising it to the crowd, getting a nice ovation.


***Bell Rings***





Cruiserweight Championship Match
Rey Mysterio vs. Christopher Daniels(c)
w/Allison Danger

The champion, The Fallen Angel, and the challenger, Rey Mysterio, square off in the middle of the ring, circling one another. The two superstars move toward the center and lock up in a collar and elbow tie up, but Daniels quickly locks in a side headlock and takes Mysterio down to the canvas! Mysterio quickly pushes the head of Daniels backs and locks in a head scissors! Daniels pushes him off and both stars quickly spin back up to their feet, eyeing each other up, to a nice ovation from the crowd, sensing a great match up on the horizon.

Mysterio nods his head as Daniels looks on, still completely focused. The Fallen Angel and Mysterio move back towards one another, locking up, but Daniels quickly goes low, hitting a knee to the gut. Daniels grabs a hand, and shoots Mysterio off of the ropes. Rey comes back and Daniels drops down, allowing Mysterio to run right over him and hit the ropes once more. Daniels pops back up and leaps frogs over the incoming Mysterio, causing Rey to hit the ropes once more. Daniels attempts to catch him with a clothesline, but Mysterio ducks, and slides out of the ring!

The Fallen Angel slides out of the ring, attempting to catch up with him, but Mysterio slides back in, and shoots off of the ropes, coming back and FLIPPING OVER THE TOP ROPE - ONTO THE APRON - AND THEN BACK INTO THE RING!!! The crowd pops as Mysterio smiles, as Daniels looks quite a bit shocked, caught off guard by the speed and moves just shown by the multiple time Cruiserweight Champion of the world. Daniels climbs back onto the apron, and continues to stare a hole through Mysterio, definitely upset about being shown up on the grand stage. The Fallen Angel then steps back into the ring … and immediately charges, but the challenger, Mysterio, trips him up with a drop toe hold, causing Daniels to get caught up on the middle rope!!

The crowd roars as Mysterio yells out “619” before shooting off of the ropes - but Daniels quickly drops to the canvas and rolls out of the ring. Daniels walks around on the outside, clearly frustrated, as Danger tries to keep him calm. The Fallen Angel looks back into the ring at the smiling Mysterio, and shakes his head, before he climbs back onto the apron and steps into the ring. Rey charges and Daniels throws a lariat, which Mysterio ducks! Rey then leaps up onto the middle rope and moonsaults - but Daniels catches him!! The Fallen Angel walks around with Rey for a bit, before he looks to hit a move, but Mysterio counters and arm drags Daniels down to the canvas!!

Ford Field continues to cheer Mysterio on as The Fallen Angel stumbles back up to his feet and Rey Rey charges, taking Daniels and himself over the top rope with a clothesline and to the floor below!! Rey gets back up to his feet on the outside and raises his hands up to another pop. He then grabs The Fallen Angel, but Danger attempts to sneak up behind Rey, causing Mysterio to turn around. Rey backs Danger up, as she begs off, and soon enough, Daniels hits Mysterio in the back with a clubbing shot. The champion then spins Rey around, grabs his hand and goes for the Irish whip into the steel steps, but Mysterio counters and sends Daniels in shoulder first into the STEEL STEPS!!!

Rey Mysterio then rolls back into the ring, breaking up the referee’s ten count. Mysterio then steps out onto the apron, waiting on the suffering Daniels. The Fallen Angel gets back up to his feet, holding his shoulder. Mysterio runs the ring apron, leaps off and dives onto the shoulders of Daniels, before taking the Cruiserweight Champion down with a beautiful hurricanrana!!! Detroit is a rockin’ as Mysterio is putting Daniels through a cruiser clinic here in the early going, showing that he indeed has not lost a step.

Rey Rey grabs Daniels off of the ground and tosses him under the bottom rope, back into the ring. Mysterio rolls back in, stands in front of Daniels, flips backward and hits a STANDING MOONSAULT, before he hooks the far leg for the first cover of the match up!

…1…
……………………..

… NO!
Daniels kicks out and Mysterio stays on the attack, as he lifts the Cruiserweight Champion of the world back up to his feet. Daniels hit’s a knee to Rey’s gut though, keeling him over, buying himself a bit of time. Daniels grabs the hand of Mysterio and then goes to shoot Rey Rey into the ropes, but Mysterio counters and sends Daniels in.

Mysterio gets set too early and The Fallen Angel comes back, leaps over him and rolls Mysterio up into a sunset flip, but Rey rolls through, back up to his feet, and attempts to hit a STIFF KICK to the head - but Daniels leans back, avoiding contact! Daniels sits back up and Mysterio hits him with a dropkick right to the face, knocking him down! Mysterio then shoots off of the ropes and hits a quick leg drop across the throat of The Fallen Angel, before covering him once more, hooking the far leg.

…1…
……………………..

…2…
… NO!
Daniels kicks out again. Mysterio lifts the champion back up to his feet, and backs him up into the corner with a couple of strong right hands. Rey Rey then grabs a hold of Daniels’ hand before shooting him into the opposite corner. Mysterio then charges in but The Fallen Angel counters, using a drop toe hold to trip Mysterio up, causing Rey to slam his head against the middle turnbuckle! Daniels then leaps up and hits a picture perfect DROPKICK, driving Mysterio’s head into the turnbuckle!!

Rey is clearly stunned, as he appears out on his feet. Daniels gets back up to a vertical base and gets behind Mysterio, before lifting him up and dropping him back down to the canvas with a crisp back drop! Daniels floats over and covers the challenger, driving his forearm into his face.

…1…
……………………..

…2…
… NO!
Mysterio gets his shoulder up. Daniels lifts Mysterio back up to his feet, before he hits Rey with a couple of stiff right handed forearms to the face, backing him up against the ropes. Mysterio then grabs his hand, and shoots him off of the ropes. Rey comes back and Daniels leaps up, taking the challenger down with a leaping calf kick to the face! The Fallen Angel pops back up to his feet and smirks, getting himself a mixed reaction, clearly leaning towards heel heat, while the lovely Allison Danger cheers him on at ringside.

Daniels lifts Mysterio back up to his feet and hits another right forearm shiver to the face of Rey, backing him up. Daniels then scoops him up, before he slams him to the canvas with a well placed body slam! Daniels then grabs the top rope, leaps up and performs a perfect SPLIT LEGGED MOONSAULT, flattening Mysterio! Daniels with the cover, hooking the near leg.

…1…
……………………..

…2…
………………………………...
… NO!
Mysterio kicks out and Daniels lets out a “damn it”, before grabbing Mysterio by his mask and lifting him back up to a vertical base. Daniels once again rocks him with a right forearm shot, but Mysterio fights back, rocking The Fallen Angel with a right hand! Daniels counters with another forearm shiver, and Mysterio answers as well with another hard right hand. The two cruiserweights begin to exchange rights, until Daniels goes low, hitting a boot to the gut.

Daniels then grabs Rey by the hand and shoots him into the ropes. He waits for Mysterio to come back, but Rey holds onto the top rope, stopping his momentum. Daniels charges in, but Rey Rey hits a stiff back elbow, catching The Fallen Angel right in the mouth, backing him up! Mysterio then leaps over the top rope and onto the apron. He attempts to leap back over, but Daniels leaps up and hits him with a DROPKICK TO THE CHEST IN MID JUMP, CAUSING MYSTERIO TO TUMBLE OFF THE APRON TO THE FLOOR!!!

Mysterio hit’s the floor hard as Daniels holds his jaw, shaking off the punishment, before getting back up to his feet. The Cruiserweight Champion waits on the inside of the ring, as the challenger begins to move. Mysterio eventually gets back up to his feet and Daniels shoots off of the ropes, comes back, AND LEAPS THROUGH THE MIDDLE ROPE, TAKING MYSTERIO OUT WITH A SUICIDE DIVE TO THE OUTSIDE!!!

The crowd cheers as both Daniels and Mysterio lie out on the floor, while the referee begins his ten count. 1... 2... 3... 4... {Both superstars begin to move but …} 5... 6... {… it’s Daniels who arises first}. He lifts Mysterio back up to a vertical base, before tossing him under the bottom rope and back into the ring. Daniels then climbs onto the ring apron himself. The Fallen Angel then steadies himself on the ring apron, before he slingshots over the top rope, and hits an elbow drop on to the chest of Mysterio!! Daniels with the cover!

…1…
……………………..

…2…
……………………………….....
… NO!
Mysterio gets his shoulder up and Daniels shakes his head in frustration, before getting back up to his feet, and dragging Mysterio back up with him. He grabs the hand of Rey and shoots him into the corner, before he quickly charges in! Mysterio leaps up and over the top of the Cruiserweight Champion, landing behind him! Daniels turns around and Mysterio hit’s a hard kick to his right shin … and then another … and then another, causing The Fallen Angel to drop down to a knee in pain. Mysterio then shoots off of the ropes, but Daniels is ready for him, quickly hitting a HARD STO!!! Mysterio’s head slaps the canvas with extreme authority and he holds the back of his dome in pain. Daniels shakes his right leg loose, before he covers him.

…1…
……………………..

…2…
……………………………….....

… NO!
Mysterio kicks out again! The crowd cheers Rey Rey on as Daniels now looks quite upset, glaring at the referee with evil in his eyes before turning back to his fallen and weakened opponent. Daniels gets back up to his feet and then lifts up Rey as well. The Fallen Angel rocks him with a right forearm and then a stiff boot to the gut, before he grabs Rey’s hand and shoots him into the ropes. Daniels gets himself set too early and once Mysterio comes back, he drills the Cruiserweight Champion in the face with a stiff kick!

Daniels holds his face in pain as Mysterio hits the ropes before coming back and leaping up, but Daniels counters, getting him into a wheelbarrow position, before lifting him up - but then it’s Mysterio who counters into that perfect patented WHEELBARROW BULLDOG!! Daniels lies out on the canvas and Mysterio quickly scurries over to cover him.

…1…
……………………..

…2…

……………………………….....
… NO!
Daniels kicks out!! Ford Field boos and Rey holds his head, thinking he had this one all but in the bag. Mysterio gets back up to his feet and soon brings The Fallen Angel back up with him. Mysterio then grabs the hand of Daniels and shoots him into the corner. Rey charges in, but Daniels quickly moves out of the way, causing Mysterio to slam chest first into the turnbuckle!

Daniels gets back up to his feet, spins Mysterio around, and snaps off a lightning quick snap mare, sitting Rey up on the canvas! The Fallen Angel then leaps up and hits a hard dropkick to the back of Mysterio’s head! Daniels then quickly gets up, lifting Rey up and staying behind him all in one fluid movement, before wrapping his left arm around his throat and twists down to the canvas, HITTING THE LAST RITES!!!!! What a beautiful combination by Daniels, ending with one of his finishing maneuvers! Daniels with the cover, hooking the far leg!!

…1…

………………………….
…2…

……………………
… NO!!
MYSTERIO KICKS OUT!!! The crowd cheers Rey on and Daniels gets back up to his feet and grabs a hold of the referee, demanding a three count, but the ref tells him its only a two, much to the dismay of The Fallen Angel. Daniels angrily grabs Mysterio and brings him back up to his feet, before shooting the iconic cruiserweight into the corner. Daniels charges in and Mysterio lifts his legs up, wrapping them up around the throat and neck of the Cruiserweight Champion! Daniels grabs a hold of Mysterio and brings him out of the corner in a POWERBOMB position - but Mysterio counters into a HURRICANRANA, taking him down!!!

Daniels staggers back up to his feet, clearly out of it and Mysterio leaps up, hitting a dropkick to the back, knocking Daniels forward and onto the middle rope! Ford Field gets up to his feet, and Mysterio doesn’t waste this opportunity with any unnecessary showboating, instead, he quickly hits the ropes, comes back AND HITS THE 619!!!! Daniels lies on the canvas, as Mysterio points to the air, ready for something big … but ALLISON DANGERS HOLDS HIS LEG!! It doesn’t take Mysterio too long before he violently shakes his leg, sending Danger off of his leg and to the floor in a heap!

Mysterio then points in the air, before SPRINGBOARDING OFF OF THE TOP ROPE WITH A LEG DROP - DROPPIN DA DIME - BUT DANIELS ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY, AND REY CRASHES AND BURNS!!! Mysterio holds the back of his leg in pain, as Daniels gets back up to his feet. Rey turns around and Daniels lifts him up onto his shoulders, AND PLANTS HIM WITH A DEATH VALLEY DRIVER IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING!!! Daniels immediately with the cover, hooking both legs!!

…1…

………………………….
…2…

……………………
… THREE - NO!!!
MYSTERIO KICKS OUT!!!! A thunderous ovation fills the arena, soon followed by “619” chants, as Daniels holds his head in his hands, in complete disbelief. The Fallen Angel angrily gets back up to his feet, lifts Mysterio up, tucks him between his legs and hooks the arms, ready for the ANGEL’S WINGS! Daniels lifts him up - GOING FOR IT - but Mysterio hit’s a boot to the top of his head, showing his incredible flexibility, causing Daniels to drop him!!

Mysterio lands on his feet as Daniels shakes off the blow. Rey charges and Daniels throws a clothesline, but Mysterio ducks it, leaps onto the middle rope and hops off, TAKING DANIELS DOWN WITH FLYING CROSS BODY!!! Mysterio rolls back up to his feet and waits on Daniels to get back up to his feet. The Cruiserweight Champion stumbles up and Rey kicks him in the gut, before he wraps his left arm around his neck, and tosses Daniels left arm over his shoulder. Mysterio then lifts him up and hit’s a vertical suplex!!

The crowd pops as Mysterio keeps a clutch onto Daniels, rolling his hips and getting back up to his feet, before hitting Daniels with a second suplex!! Rey rolls the hips once more, right back up to his feet before, planting The Fallen Angel with a third and final vertical suplex - capping off the THREE AMIGOS!! Rey gets up and points to the sky, receiving loud “Eddie” chants. Mysterio then walks over to the corner and steps out onto the apron before he begins to climb to the top turnbuckle. Mysterio gets set on the top and leaps off - GOING FOR THE FROG SPLASH - but The Fallen Angel moves out of the way and MYSTERIO EATS CANVAS for the second time in as many tries!!

Daniels gets back up to his feet, clearly worn out, from the ferocity of this match up. He drags Mysterio back up to his feet and shoots him off of the ropes, and once Rey comes back, Daniels HITS A NASTY TILT A WHIRL BACKBREAKER!!! Daniels then drags the limp body of Mysterio to the center of the ring and points to the corner as the fans chant along “BEST! MOONSAULT! EVER!”.
The Fallen Angel walks over to the corner and gets set, before leaping from the bottom turnbuckle, to the middle turnbuckle, to the top turnbuckle and MOONSAULTING OFF - LOOKING FOR THE BME - AND MYSTERIO CAN’T MOVE - BUT DOES GET HIS KNEES UP!!! Daniels’ solar plexus crashes into the knees of Mysterio before Rey gets back up to his feet, and ROLLS HIM UP IN AN OKLAHOMA ROLL!!!

…1…

………………………….
…2…

……………………
… NO!
Daniels kicks out!!! Mysterio and Daniels both get back up to their feet and Mysterio throws a right hand, which Daniels ducks, before he kicks Mysterio in the gut with authority! Daniels then grabs the hand of Rey and goes to shoot him into the corner, but Mysterio counters the Irish whip and sends the Cruiserweight Champion in! Mysterio then charges in, but Daniels CATAPULTS HIM INTO THE AIR - BUT MYSTERIO LANDS ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE!!!

Mysterio shows some incredible balance, turning around on the turnbuckle with one hop!! Daniels hit’s the ropes and all Rey’s work goes for naught, as he falls and ends up crotching the top turnbuckle!! The Fallen Angel looks to take advantage, climbing the turnbuckle and getting Mysterio into position for a SUPERPLEX!! Daniels lifts Rey all the way up onto the top turnbuckle, but Mysterio fights back, hitting some hard shots to the side of the body … before SHOVING DANIELS OFF AND ALL THE WAY TO THE CANVAS BELOW!!!!

Rey then steadies himself on the top turnbuckle, as Daniels gets back up to his feet, holding his stomach in an incredible amount of pain. Once Daniels reaches his feet, MYSTERIO LEAPS OFF THE TOP ROPE - ONTO THE SHOULDERS OF DANIELS - AND SNAPS OFF THE WEST COAST POP, HOLDING HIS LEGS!!!!!!!!!!!!

…1…

………………………….
…2…

……………………
… THREE-
NO!!!!!!!!
DANIELS KICKS OUT!!!!!! Mysterio’s eyes open up wild as he can’t believe that he pulled out the top rope West Coast Pop and didn’t pull out the victory. Every fan packing Ford Field stands on their feet and applauds as Mysterio shakes off the shock, and gets back up to his feet. He grabs Daniels and tries to lift him back up to his feet - but Daniels GRABS REY’S NECK AND HITS A NASTY JAWBREAKER!!

Daniels then kicks Mysterio in the gut, keeling him over. The Fallen Angel holds his gut in pain, still very much feeling the effects of this incredibly grueling match up. Daniels “Mans Up”, shakes off the pain and tucks Mysterio between his legs, before he hooks both of Rey’s arms! Daniels then lifts Mysterio into the air - LOOKING FOR THE ANGEL’S WINGS - but Rey kicks his feet wildly, causing Daniels to bring him back down to the canvas, clearly in pain. Mysterio quickly reacts, lifting Daniels backwards, up and over and onto his back, PINNING DANIELS TO THE CANVAS!!!!

…1…

………………………….
…2…

……………………

!!!THREE!!!
Winner: And NEW Cruiserweight Champion REY MYSTERIO at 16:07.


MYSTERIO HAS DONE IT!! REY IS ONCE MORE THE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION!!! Daniels sits up and looks around in shock, as Mysterio pumps his hands wildly amongst a thunderous ovation.


Joey Styles:
OH MY GAWD!!! Rey Mysterio has beaten the Cruiserweight Champion, The Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels! Can you say “redemption”!?

Tazz:
I don’t believe he actually did it! I know I said he had a shot to win it, but I didn’t actually believe it, but Rey Mysterio has done it!!


The referee exits the ring and grabs the Cruiserweight Title before bringing it in the ring and handing it to Mysterio. Daniels and Danger head back up the ramp in complete dismay, shaking their heads but they soon look up … to see Dean Malenko, Chris Sabin, and Chavo Guerrero.
The three stars stare at the now FORMER Cruiserweight Champion and smirk, causing Daniels to grow in anger, before they head on past him and into the ring to celebrate with Mysterio!
Daniels and Danger watch from the top of the ramp as Sabin, Malenko, and Chavo lift Mysterio up into the air while Rey holds the Cruiserweight Championship into the air and the crowd cheers them on.



Jim Ross:
Ladies and gentlemen, coming up next, two lovely ladies get downright ugly. The Women’s Championship is on the line. The current reigning champion, the YEAR LONG reigning champion, Mickie James, takes on the impressive, the dominant Victoria. We pick up from one year ago.



Women’s Championship Match Video Package:
- The psychotic diva, Mickie James, wins the Women’s Championship, defeating her former idol, Trish Stratus, at WrestleMania 22.

- Mickie reigns as champion, defeating challenger after challenger throughout 2006.

- Leading up to her Royal Rumble title defense against Gail Kim, Mickie decides to enlist the help of Victoria, promising Victoria a title shot if she helps her defeat Kim. After a bit, Victoria accepts.

Jim Ross:
With a win tonight, Mickie James will be establishing herself in some elite class. Mickie has reigned as the Women’s Champion for nine plus months now! Very impressive.

- With help from Victoria, Mickie defeats Kim, planting her with the Mickie DDT for a three count.

Jim Ross:
Hell of an effort that Gail Kim put forward but in the end, Mickie James was just too much and her nine month title reign continues but she now has to deal with Victoria apparently.

Jerry Lawler:
Mickie did promise Victoria a title shot if she retained the championship tonight. Maybe we’ll see a title match on RAW.

- On Raw, Victoria asks Mickie when she’ll get her title shot. Mickie says she may have pulled a muscle in her shoulder on Sunday and will probably need a few weeks to be at full strength. Vickie looks none too happy as Mickie gets up, holding her shoulder as she exit’s the locker room … a slight smile on her face.

- Victoria continues to impress, defeating Gail Kim later in the night, as clean as a whistle, while Mickie watches in fear.

- The following week, in a joint interview with Victoria and the Women’s Champion Mickie James, . Mickie puts over Victoria, calling her a formidable opponent and going so far as to call her a good friend. Mickie says her shoulder should be fine in a couple of weeks and will be glad to put the title on the line against Vickie in two weeks. Victoria smirks, almost in a trance as she stares at the Women’s Title, causing Mickie to gulp.

- The next week, a handicap match takes place with Mickie and Victoria teaming up to take on Torrie Wilson, Candice Michelle and Maria. During the match, Mickie begins to sell her “shoulder injury” from the past couple of weeks and tags out, hopping off of the apron in pain, leaving Vickie one on three. The camera catches Mickie smirking a bit but that’s soon wiped off of her face as Victoria kicks it into a different gear, plowing through all three women before finishing Candice off with a Widow’s Peak!
Mickie looks on in utter shock and fear as Victoria displays just how dominant she can be.

- During their title match up, Victoria hits a hard kick to Mickie’s “injured” shoulder and Mickie rolls out of the ring and back up the ramp, getting herself counted out!!

Jim Ross:
Victoria has won this match by count but Mickie keeps her championship.

- The following week…

Mickie James:
Yeah … the doctors have said that my shoulder was re-injured by that kick from Victoria, and that’s why I was counted out on last week’s Raw. So once again, I’ll be out of action here on Raw for a couple of weeks until my shoulder is all ready to go.

- Mickie then announces that she got a match for Victoria at Saturday Night’s Main Event against six-time champion Trish Stratus.

- At SNME, Victoria plows through the most revered of her generation, Trish Stratus, in six minutes. After the match, Victoria stares down at Trish and doesn’t see Mickie slide into the ring with the Women’s Title. There doesn’t appear to be a damn thing wrong with her shoulder as she rears back … but Victoria spins around, almost in flash and stares Mickie right in the eyes. A look of unequivocal fear comes over the face of the Women’s Champion as she slowly rolls out of the ring, with Victoria not taking an eye off her - both women now knowing where they stand.

- Two weeks before WrestleMania, both Mickie and Victoria have a sit-down interview with J.R., in which Ross brings up Mickie’s ducking of Victoria.

Mickie James:
I wasn’t ducking anybody, J.R. On Raw a couple of weeks ago, I had a severe shoulder injury and I was counted out because of it. I would NEEEEVER get myself intentionally counted out, especially against a good friend of mine. I’m an honest champion … and you wouldn’t call me a liar, would you, J.R.?

Jim Ross:
I certainly wouldn’t do that. (Turns away from Mickie and towards Vickie)Victoria, let me ask you, you’ve beaten some of the best divas in this company - from Trish Stratus, to Lita, to Molly Holly and down the line. What does it mean for you to head into WrestleMania 23 and challenge Mickie James, your “friend” for the Women’s Championship?

Victoria:
As-

Mickie James:
What do you mean “friend”!? Are you saying that we’re not friends!? I think you’re calling me a liar, J.R.! (Getting out of her chair and into Ross’ face once more)I DON’T LIKE BEING CALLED A LIAR, J.R.!!

Victoria gets out of her seat and grabs Mickie, sitting her in her chair with authority!! Victoria then takes her right hand, puts on the chin of the Women’s Champion, and gets right in Mickie’s frightened face as she speaks. Ross watches on nervously as Vickie talks to the psychotic, though terrified champion.

Victoria:
You have been pissing me off for weeks. Fake injuries, fake promises, fake friendship. I’m done with it all. I want - (Mickie struggles to get free but Vickie tightens up her grip on her lovely chin) - I want what you promised me … and I’m going to get what you promised me at WrestleMania 23. So you can leave the phony hugs and kisses at home, ‘cause I’m not buying it. At WrestleMania 23, I’m gonna TAKE that Women’s Championship. See you in a couple of weeks.

Victoria slowly lets go of Mickie’s face before turning and storming away, leaving Mickie breathing heavily and looking quite a bit nervous.

- The following week, Victoria attempts to enlist the help of Trish Stratus and others but they aren’t buying it, leaving Mickie alone for WrestleMania. As a backup, Mickie attempts to get two unsigned male superstars to attack Victoria. Not only does Victoria fends off the superstars, she lays both GROWN MEN out, hitting one with her Widow’s Peak!



***



***DON’T MESS WITH***

The crowd delivers a solid ovation as Victoria steps out onto the WrestleMania stage, dawned in her pink attire, in stark contrast to the determined look on her face as she continues on down to the ring.


Lillian Garcia:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is for the WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP!!! Introducing first … the challenger … from Los Angeles, California … VICTORIAAA!!!


Victoria steps into the ring and raises her arms to the hard camera, getting another pop from the crowd.


Jim Ross:
Victoria is quick, Victoria is powerful, Victoria is experienced and she could very well leave Ford Field here tonight with the Women’s Championship strapped around her waist for the third time.

Jerry Lawler:
What we saw on Raw was one of the most impressive … and scary thing I’ve ever seen. Victoria took a grown man - a fully grown man, J.R. and hit him with her Widow’s Peak! I’ve never seen that!


*CLAP* *CLAP* *CLAP* *CLAP* *CLAP*



***OBSESSION***

The incredibly talented, sexy, vivacious, voluptuous, gorgeous, beautiful, stunning, elegant, dazzling (enough? :p) WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James steps out onto the WrestleMania stage, receiving a mixed reaction, as she clutches her title in her hands, looking incredibly nervous.


Lillian Garcia:
And her opponent … from Richmond, Virginia … THE WWE WOMEN’S CHAMPIOOONNN … MICKIE JAMES!!!


Mickie steps into the ring, walks over to the corner, and raises her title to another mixed reaction, though she’s still clearly incredibly nervous … and hot.


Jim Ross:
365 days. One full calendar year. That will be the length of Mickie James title run if she can somehow make it past Victoria with the Women’s Championship still in tact.

Jerry Lawler:
If she wants to win, I suggest she gets a lot more confident than she appears. Victoria’s gonna eat her alive if Mickie’s head isn’t into this match one hundred percent.


Mickie hands the title belt to the referee and the ref shows it to Mickie before he shows it to Victoria and raises it over his head.


***Bell Rings***





Women’s Championship Match:
Mickie James vs. Victoria

The WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James and the challenger, Victoria, get their hands up, ready to engage as we get the most anticipated Women’s Title Match in quite some time underway. Victoria has a calm confidence about herself, as focused as always, while Mickie looks nervous, gulping as she and Vickie move toward the center of the ring to one another.

Mickie and Victoria lock up in the middle of the ring, tied up on the collar and elbow. The two joust for position until Mickie quickly goes behind, grabbing the challenger by the waist. She tries to lift Victoria up, but eventually can’t do anything with it, as Vickie refuses to be moved. Victoria then reaches down and breaks the grip of Mickie and applies a side headlock. Mickie quickly backs into the ropes and shoots Victoria off. Vic comes back and throws a clothesline, but Mickie takes Victoria down with a Japanese style arm drag.

The bubbly but psychotic Women’s Champion gets back up to her feet, and smiles, before she raises her arms into the air to a mixed reaction. Victoria gets back up as well and Mickie turns around, kicks her in the gut, grabs her hand and goes to shoot the challenger off of the ropes, but Vickie counters and sends Mickie in. James comes back and Victoria does a split down to the canvas to a nice pop. Mickie leaps over her and hits off of the ropes once more. She comes back and Victoria leans back and takes Mickie over with a perfectly executed monkey flip, sending Mickie onto her gorgeous backside!

The Mick gets up holding her ass in pain as Victoria gets up as well. Mickie charges in but Victoria scoops the Women’s Champion up and slams Mickie to the canvas with a body slam. Vickie then stands next to Mickie, with her back facing her, before back flipping backwards, hitting a STANDING MOONSAULT!! Victoria stays on top of Mickie and hooks the far leg, going for the first cover of this title match up!!

…1…
……………………………….........

… NO!
Mickie kicks out!! Victoria gets back up to a vertical base while Mickie also struggles back up to her feet. Mickie stumbles into the corner as the challenger follows in, hitting Mickie with a couple of right handed forearms before pulling the champion towards the middle of the ropes. Victoria then grabs a hold of James’ hand and shoots her into the ropes. Mickie comes back and Victoria takes her up and over with a hip toss! Vickie waits as Mickie slowly gets back up to her feet and charges, only to be arm dragged back down by Victoria! The two get back up - Mickie far more gingerly and Mickie quickly drops back down and rolls out of the ring, to the outside, taking a breather.

The Mick shakes her head, shaken up by Victoria’s attack … and is soon caught by a hard BASEBALL SLIDE from Victoria, taking her down to the mat!! Vickie gets back up to her feet on the inside of the ring, as Mickie holds her face in pain on the outside. Victoria grabs a hold of the top rope as she waits on James to get back up to her feet, and once she does, VICTORIA LEAPS OVER THE TOP ROPE, TAKING MICKIE DOWN WITH PLANCHA!!!

The audience continues to cheer the number one contender on, as she gets back up to her feet on the outside. Victoria then reaches down and picks Mickie back up to her feet as well. Vickie then grabs her hand and attempts to shoot Mickie into the STEEL STEPS - but James manages to stop her momentum, putting her hands on the steel steps. Victoria waits for Mickie to turn around and then charges - but MICKIE USES A QUICK DROP TOE HOLD … AND SENDS VICTORIA’S FACE CRASHING INTO THE STEEL STEPS!!! The crowd groans as Victoria’s head makes a rather sick thud against the steps, before she collapses back down to the ground.

Mickie then quickly rolls under the bottom rope and back into the ring, yelling “COUNT HER OUT, DAMN IT!!!” to the referee. The ref tells Mickie to move out of his way as he begins to make his ten count.

“ONE … TWO … THREE …”

Victoria has yet to move after smacking her face against the cold, hard steel.

“… FOUR … FIVE … SIX …”

Vickie begins to move a bit, making it onto her hands and knees as Mickie yells at the referee to count faster.

“… SEVEN … EIGHT …”

Victoria gets back up to her feet and grabs a hold of the ropes, using them to pull herself up.
“WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?” are the words Mickie yells to the referee as he stops his count when Vickie gets a knee up onto the apron. Mickie shoots off of the ropes, pissed, and goes for another BASEBALL SLIDE - but Victoria moves out of the way, sidestepping her before dropping down off of the apron. Mickie does not even get a chance to react as Vickie DROPS HER WITH A SIDEKICK TO THE HEAD!! Victoria drops the Women’s Champion with a stiff kick to the face and takes a deep breath as the camera closes in on Vickie’s lip which is now bleeding, courtesy of that trip into the steel steps.

Victoria then reaches down, and grabs the well endowed Women’s Champion back up to her feet and rolls her under the bottom rope and back into the ring. Vickie then climbs up onto the ring apron as well, before flipping over the top rope and crashing on Mickie with a hard SOMERSAULT LEG DROP ACROSS HER THROAT!!! Victoria then floats over for the cover, hooking the far leg for extra leverage.

…1…
……………………………….........

…2…
……………………….
… NO!
Mickie gets her shoulder up - effectively saving her Women’s Title! Victoria shakes her head before grabbing Mickie and bringing the champion back up to her feet. Vickie then clutches Mickie’s by the hand and shoots her into the corner. Victoria soon charges in after her - BUT MICKIE WRAPS HER LEGS AROUND VICTORIA’S THROAT!!! Victoria struggles to get free as Mickie attempts to CHOKE THE LIFE OUT OF HER with legs!!

Once Vickie stops fighting, Mickie comes out of the corner, taking Victoria down with a MICKIE-RANA!!! Victoria lands in the middle of the ring and Mickie quickly runs over and straddles Victoria, and wraps her hands around Vickie’s throat, CHOKING HER out!!! “IS THIS WHAT YOU WANTED VICTORIA?! HUH?!” is what Mickie screams at the top of her lungs as the ref attempts to pull her off, after already utilizing his five count - but not wanting to use his option to DQ the champion at a WrestleMania.

Victoria continues to kick her legs wildly, as Mickie smiles sadistically … but Mickie soon grabs a hold of Mickie and simply TOSSES HER OFF, over her head! Mickie looks around in shock at the sheer force and might of Victoria, as the challenger clutches her throat, feeling the effects of that choke hold. Mickie gets back up to her feet as Victoria struggles up to hers.

Mickie charges and goes for a clothesline, but Victoria ducks, and then lights Mickie with a right hand … and another … and then two more! Vickie then grabs a hold of Mickie’s hand and attempts to shoot her into the corner, but Mickie counters the Irish whip and sends Victoria running into the corner!! Victoria leaps onto the middle turnbuckle, flips off AND TAKES MICKIE DOWN WITH A MOONSAULT, HOOKING MICKIE’S LEGS AS THEY FLY UP FROM THE IMPACT!!!

…1…
……………………………….........

…2…
……………………….

THR - NO!!!
Mickie barely kicks out!!! Victoria shakes her head in frustration, before grabbing Mickie and bringing the Women’s Champion up to her feet … only to be poked in the eye by Mickie!! Victoria turns around, holding her eye, and Mickie rolls her up into a SCHOOL BOY!!

…1…
……………………………….........

…2…
……………………….
… NO!
Victoria kicks out and both divas get back up to their feet. MICKIE GOES FOR THAT SPINNING MICK KICK - but Victoria ducks, and kicks Mickie in the gut!! Vickie then tucks Mickie between her legs - GOING FOR THE WIDOW’S PEAK - but Mickie counters, tripping Victoria up and onto her back, before flipping over into A JACKKNIFE COVER!!

…1…
…………………….........

…2…
………………

TH … NO!
Victoria kicks out again and both divas get back up to their feet once more, squaring off. Victoria goes for a right, but Mickie blocks it, and then follows up with a couple if right hands of her own, before shooting off the ropes. She comes back - and Victoria is ready for her, lifting the Women’s Champion up onto her shoulders in a Torture Rack like position. Victoria then PLANTS HER WITH A SPINNING SIDE SLAM!! VICKIE HOOKS THE NEAR LEG!!

…1…
……………………………….........

…2…
……………………….

… NO!
MICKIE GETS A SHOULDER UP!!! Victoria angrily looks at the referee, who reacts by backing up and holding up two fingers, telling the fearsome diva that she just missed the victory. Victoria begrudgingly turns back to Mickie, and struggles to lift the dead weight of Mickie back up to her feet. Vickie then grabs her by the back of her head and runs forward before he tosses Mickie over the top rope -- but Mickie lands on the apron!!

Mickie then runs towards the turnbuckle and quickly climbs to the top, while Victoria nurses her injuries, unaware. Mickie gets set on the top turnbuckle and when Victoria turns around - MICKIE LEAPS OFF THE TOP, GOING FOR A CROSS BODY -- BUT VICTORIA CATCHES HER!!! The crowd gasps at the sure power display being shown by the former Women’s Champion! Victoria then attempts to lift her onto her shoulders - but MICKIE COUNTERS, and takes Vickie down with an arm drag!!

Victoria staggers back up to her feet, dazed, before she refocuses and charges at Mickie - but James counters AND HITS A TILT A WHIRL BACKBREAKER!! Vickie’s back bends disgustingly over Mickie’s knee, causing the crowd to groan, before Victoria plops down to the canvas. Mickie then quickly goes for the cover, hooking the far leg!!!

…1…

………………………..…….
…2…

……………………..
… THREE - NO!!!
VICTORIA KICKS OUT!!! The crowd cheers as the audience shows her incredible resilience. Mickie screams at the top of her lungs, tearing at her hair in misery. Mickie angrily lifts Victoria up to her feet and tucks her under her arm, letting out another angry scream as she raises her arm into the air to a mixed reaction. Mickie then leaps up - AND PLANTS VICTORIA WITH A MICKIE DDT!!! BALL GAME!! Mickie’s expression changes almost instantaneously from anger to a smile, before she lays back across Vickie, almost as if she was a lawn chair.

…1…

……………….
…2…

……………………………….

!!THREE - NO!!
VICTORIA KICKS OUT OF MICKIE’S FINISHER!! Ford Field applauds as Mickie doesn’t get upset, but merely looks broken, not having a clue as to how to put her incredibly formidable challenger away. Mickie soon gets back up to her feet and brings Victoria’s limp body up with her. Mickie then tucks Victoria’s head under her arm once more - GOING FOR ANOTHER MICKIE DDT - BUT VICTORIA COUNTERS INTO AN OVERHEAD RELEASE NORTHERN LIGHT’S SUPLEX!!!

Both champion and challenger lay out on the canvas, completely worn out from the damage taken in this match up. Mickie is the first up to her feet, crawling onto her hands and knees and towards the ropes, using them to pull herself up. Mickie then begins to walk towards the sprawled out BUT - VICTORIA THEN KIPS UP TO HER FEET, to a great pop!! Mickie looks into the eyes of Victoria in complete shock, before she charges, looking for a clothesline - but Vickie ducks it, kicks Mickie in the gut and tucks her between her legs! The crowd cheers as Victoria lifts her up, and onto her shoulder - BEFORE FINALLY PLANTING MICKIE WITH THE WIDOW’S PEAK!!!!!!
Victoria turns Mickie over and manages to cover the Women’s Champion, who doesn’t move a muscle!!!

…1…

……………….
…2…

……………………………....

!!!!!THREE-
NO!!!!!!!
MICKIE GETS HER HAND ON THE BOTTOM ROPE!!!! A small “Bullshit” chant starts up as Victoria gets up and grabs a hold of the referee, demanding to know the hold up! The ref points to Mickie’s hand on the ropes, as Mickie rolls out of the ring and stumbles toward the timekeeper’s table. Mickie snatches her Women’s Title, walks around ringside and begins to head back up the entrance ramp - LEAVING THE ARENA!!!

Victoria and the referee watch on in disbelief as Mickie James heads up the entrance ramp … but is soon stopped as TRISH STRATUS AND GAIL KIM STEP OUT ONTO THE STAGE!!! Mickie shakes her head as the two divas back her up and eventually back to the ringside area. The referee leaves the ring and gets in between Mickie and the other divas, trying to keep order as Mickie continues to back up until she reaches the ring apron. Trish and Gail continue to argue with the ref as Victoria reaches down and grabs a hold of Mickie’s hair, bringing her back onto the apron, before bringing her back into the ring!!! Mickie begs on her knees, pleading for Victoria to relax as Vickie stands over her, while the referee continues to deal with Gail and Trish.

Suddenly, BETH PHOENIX leaps over the barricade and slides into the ring!!

Mickie smiles and once Phoenix grabs Victoria’s arms and holds them behind her back! Vickie is too weak to fight off the Amazon as the Women’s Champion gets back up to her feet. Mickie kisses Vickie on the lips with the GOODNIGHT KISS to a loud pop from the male dominated crowd, before she spins around and DROPS VICTORIA WITH A SPINNING BACK KICK TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD!! Trish and Gail beg for the ref to turn around, but by the time he does, Phoenix has already slid out of the ring, and all he sees is Mickie James lying across an unconscious Victoria without a care in the world, lightly brushing her hair out of her face with a smile. The referee slides under the ropes, back into the ring and makes the count.

…1…

……………….
…2…

……………………..

!!!!!THREE!!!!!
Winner: And STILL Women’s Champion, MICKIE JAMES at 12:06.


Jim Ross:
What the hell is going on!? Beth Phoenix just laid out Victoria and helped Mickie James retain the Women’s Championship!

Jerry Lawler:
I don’t have a clue, J.R. The last time we saw Beth, she was at the throat of Mickie. What’s with the sudden change of heart?


Mickie is handed her Women’s Championship and raises it above her head to a mixed reaction, as Beth smirks from ringside. Mickie climbs out of the ring as Trish and Gail climb in.


Jim Ross:
Well, whatever the reason, Victoria has been screwed out of the Women’s Championship here tonight, and Mickie James will head past the full ONE YEAR mark in her Women’s Title reign.

Jerry Lawler:
Can anybody dethrone Mickie James?


Mickie and Beth look into the eyes of one another and smile, before Mickie grabs the hand of Phoenix and heads with her back up the entrance ramp.

{Oh, the innuendo. Yeah, I’m going down that road.}



***



Backstage, Edge sits on a chair with Lita sitting one beside him, both dressed in Rated R Superstar T-shirts. Edge rocks in his chair, unable to stay still, incredibly tensed up for his title match tonight.

Lita:
You all right?

Edge:
This is the night! This is the night that I finally get my hands on that son of a bitch! After all the stall tactics, crap from Coachman, crap from MY group, I finally get a shot at Orton and there isn’t gonna be a person in that ring who’s gonna stop me from hurting Orton and hurting him and hurting him bad. Michaels can’t stop me, the ref won’t stop me, and Orton sure as hell won’t stop me! I’m getting Orton’s blood tonight!

Lita:
Aren’t you forgetting something?

Edge:
What?

Lita:
The WWE Title?

Edge seems caught off guard by the mere fact that the most prestigious prize on Raw seemingly slipped his mind; Revenge taking over his every thought, even on the grand stage. Lita stands up and gets behind Edge.

Lita:
You’re gonna have to ask yourself what’s more important to you tonight - the WWE Championship or destroying Orton? And as much as I would like to see you beat the crap out of the pretty boy … you know which one you should choose.

Lita then kisses Edge on the neck before heading off camera, leaving The Rated R Superstar to think …



***



Cena-Taker Video Package:
- Cena explodes at the Royal Rumble, eliminating some of the biggest guys in the match up, but is taken out by hated rival and eventual RR winner, Mr. Kennedy. Cena re-enters the ring and attempts to get rid of KK illegally, but Kennedy avoids the attack, and Cena accidentally eliminates … THE UNDERTAKER!

- The SmackDown following, Cena wins a match but afterward, the lights begin to flicker off and on and Cena quickly grabs a mic.

John Cena:
Yo, before this gets out of hand, like it has with so many others … Undertaker … my bad. I was in such a fury to try and eliminate that platinum blonde jack off from the match, that I accidentally took you out instead. Believe you-me, it wasn’t intentional. The Doctor of Thuganomics has much respect for you and everything that you’ve accomplished, so uh … yeah.

- The Raw following, The Undertaker is involved in a Road to WrestleMania tournament match, with the winner getting closer to a WWE Title shot. When Taker looks like he has the match in hand, Cena leaps over the barricade from out of nowhere and plants Taker with the FU, costing him with the match.

John Cena:
And my apology last week here on SmackDown was on the up and up. I didn’t want any beef with you Deadman, so I wanted to squash any problems right then and there.

I don’t give a shit whether you idiots believe me or not. Last week, when I came out here, I meant every word I said … but then the whole weekend, at the airport, picking up my bags, eating in a restaurant, all any little snot-nosed brat would come up and ask me was “Do you think The Undertaker will accept your apology?” or “You think Taker will be mad?” or “Do you hope Taker keeps his cool?” And I realized … people thought I did what I did because I was actually afraid of The Undertaker. I want each and every one of you to look right at me when I tell you this!! John Cena fears NO … MAN!!

- Cena has a match with relative newcomer, Chris Sabin. After a distraction from The Undertaker, Sabin rolls Cena up and picks up a HUGE upset.

- Cena vs. Sabin Rematch is set for No Way Out.

John Cena:
If The Undertaker has half a mind, he knows not to stick his nose in my business a second time. The first time, I’m letting you off the hook for. You do it again, Deadman, and I’ll put you six feet under …

- At No Way Out, Sabin puts up a hell of a fight but in the end, it’s Cena who hit’s the FU and pins Sabin.

- After the match though, The Undertaker shows up and Cena responds by … slapping him in the face!! Taker and Cena then brawl but there is no clear winner before Cean leaves the ring.

John Cena:
And last Sunday, I showed Chris Sabin who the boss is, when I beat his ass dead center in the middle of the ring. And then after that, I showed The Undertaker who the boss is, when I pimped slapped him in the face.The Deadman needs to learn that his time -- his era -- his decade and a half of destruction is long gone and my time … IS NOW!Ohhhh, but Taker me and you, we’re gonna come face to face eventually enough but tonight, I teach Chris Sabin who runs the show just one more time(does ‘You Can’t See Me’ taunt). Ya heard?

- Cena and Sabin have a rematch on SmackDown, and once more, it’s Cena who picks up the victory.

- After the match, The Undertaker shows up once more and again the brawl is on, but this time, Taker KNOCKS Cena from the ring. SmackDown General Manager enters the arena and says not only is The Undertaker the newest star on SmackDown … but he’ll be facing John Cena at WrestleMania!

John Cena:
It reads like a storybook. The disrespectful, cocky John Cena costs Undertaker his title shot at the Royal Rumble, he disrespects Taker constantly but then, in the end, Taker gets his revenge at WrestleMania. That how its gonna go?

- Clips of The Undertaker destroying everyone he faced at WrestleMania, starting with Snuka and a whole bunch of monsters following.

John Cena:
I mean, I should probably just pack it in now. There’s just NO WAY that anybody will be able to defeat the almighty Undertaker at WrestleMania, right? Sure we could go that route. But I’d like to think that The Undertaker is a lot smarter than all of you people here tonight. And if that’s the case, he sure as hell better not underestimate JOHN CENA!!

- Cena establishes himself as the man from 2005 on in the WWE’s newest generation, winning two WWE Titles, and beating the biggest and best in the WWE from Shawn Michaels and Triple H to JBL to Kurt Angle and The Big Show.

John Cena:
Deadman, you’d best recognize that John Cena is no ordinary man. I’m the big man on campus, the big dog roaming these halls. You walk around these locker rooms, all of the boys in the back fear ME!!

- At Saturday Night’s Main Event, Cena mocks The Undertaker in a video package, putting himself over. The Undertaker shows up and yet again, the two superstars have it out, but this time, not only does Cena disrespect The Undertaker by SPITTING in his face, CENA LAYS OUT THE UNDERTAKER clean in the middle of the ring with an FU!

Joey Styles:
OH MY GAWD!!! John Cena has just laid out The Undertaker!! John Cena has just planted The Phenom with the FU!!

Cena stands over the fallen Phenom and the crowd has almost gone completely silent as no one expected Cena to be able to drop Taker as clean as a whistle as he just did. Cena lets out a smirk before “turning” his hand into a gun and aiming it at the Deadman, pulling the trigger and then walks off.

Jim Ross: What an incredible show of strength form the Doctor of Thuganomics right there!! Have we just seen a change of the guard?! Have we just seen John Cena TAKE the proverbial torch away from the Deadman!?

- Shot of The Undertaker out cold in the middle of the ring.

John Cena:
Don’t rub your eyes, I’m here live and in the flesh. I showed at Saturday Night’s Main Event, SPIT … in The Undertaker’s face, bitched him out, dropped him down and I’m still standing today. THE BOSS IS HERE!!!!

I heard it from everybody, “John, you’re gonna get hurt messing with The Undertaker”, “John, a decade of destruction”, “John, he’s The Phenom”, “John, he’s this. John, he’s that” but through it ALL, I SAID THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER!!! I told each and every one of ya, I FEAR NOTHING AND REGRET LESS!! And I proved it five days ago!!

- Cena forcing Hunter to submit at WrestleMania 22.

John Cena:
I’m calling the shot, I’m The Boss, I’m running it. Taker, you show up and get shown up or you stay at the house, hide behind the magic crap and prove yourself to be the BITCH that you are!!

- Two days ago, The Undertaker returns to SmackDown.

The Undertaker:
Joooohn Ceeeenaaaa … you’ve proven yourself a worthy adversary. You’ve proven yourself to be unafraid. But make no mistake about it, in two days … at WrestleMania 23 … just like fourteen men before you … John, you will be taken to the depths of hell … you will be put in pain that you didn’t think was humanly possible … and in the end, you will fall. At WrestleMania … you WILL … REST … IN … PEEEEEEACE!!!

- Cena shows up and The Undertaker and Cena go at it again, and this time, Taker gains the advantage but Cena hit’s a low blow, and chokes The Phenom out with the STFU, yelling at him intensely.

- Final shot of Cena standing over the fallen Phenom.



***



*GONG*

*GONG*

The crowd gets up to its feet and applaud as the roars of lightning and thunder begin to fill the arena.

*GONG*

*GONG*

The lights in the arena go out and the audience applauds wildly as a purplish aura begins to overtake the arena.

*GONG*

*GONG*

*GONG*

Suddenly, lightning strikes the entrance ramp and fire laces the entire entrance ramp!!!

*GONG*

*GONG*

Smoke and fog begins to flow onto the stage and entrance ramp as several druids walk out onto the stage and proceed down the entrance ramp, each one of them, carrying a torch.

*GONG*

*GONG*

***GRAVEYARD SYMPHONY***

The Undertaker, dressed in his trademark black trench coat and hat, steps out onto the stage and the crowd erupts for The Phenom, giving Taker an mind-boggling ovation. The Deadman slowly walks through the fog and each one of his loyal druids, passing by the fire on his way down to the ring as scary as always.


Tony Chimel:
The following contest is a ONE ON ONE match up and it is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, from DEATH VALLEY, weighing in at 315 pounds, UNDEFEATED AT WRESTLEMANIA, 14 AND 0, THEEEE UNDEERRRRTAKKKEEERRRR!!!!!


The Undertaker climbs the steel steps, lifting his arms into the air as the lights throughout the arena come back on. The Phenom steps into the ring and takes his hat off, rolling his eyes into the back of his head as the crowd cheers on the legendary superstar.


Joey Styles:
You did hear that right. 14 and 0. The Undertaker has NEVER loss a match at the SuperBowl of sports entertainment. From Jimmy Superfly Snuka, King Kong Bundy, Sid Vicious, Diesel, The Big Show, Kane, “The Game” Triple H, the legendary Ric Flair, Randy Orton and more have all fallen at the feet of The Phenom at this event.

Tazz:
No doubt, no doubt, The Deadman is the biggest force of nature in the history of this event but you’ve gotta figure, he’s about DUE for a loss and I can’t think of a more tenacious superstar to hand it to him, than the Doctor of Thuganomics, John Cena. And after what we saw this past Friday night on SmackDown!, I think Cena might actually be the favorite.


***MY TIME IS NOW***

The most explosive reaction of the night takes place, with the roof coming unglued as each and every person lets their opinion of the Doctor of Thuganomics known. After a couple of seconds, John Cena makes his way out onto the stage and the mixed reaction does nothing but get louder!

Cena stands at the top of the stage and shapes his right hand like a gun, pointing it at The Undertaker. He begins to walk down the ramp and “pulls the trigger” over and over again, causing pyro to explode above him, until he reaches the bottom of the entrance ramp. The Undertaker is unfazed as he continues to warm up.


Tony Chimel:
And his opponent … from West Newbury, Massachusetts, weighing in tonight at 248 pounds, he is THE DOCTOR OF THUGANOMICS, JJOHHHHHHNNN CEEEEEENAAAA!!!!


Cena steps into the ring, and raises his hands into the air, once again receiving a huge mixed reaction from this electric crowd tonight. Taker continues to shadow box, paying no mind to the fearless, destructive and deadly youngster.


Joey Styles:
One of the most controversial -- probably THE most controversial superstar that you will see here ladies and gentlemen. John Cena makes no bones about it, he’s out here for numero uno and he doesn’t care who knows it. He says what he wants, does what he wants and when he wants to do it. Well, tonight its time to put up or shut up, as he goes one on one against The Undertaker!!

Tazz:
You mentioned that Cena is controversial and if you ask a lot of people there opinion on him, they’ll tell you he’s arrogant but the fact is, Cena is GREAT - one of the very best that this business has to offer. Multiple time WWE Champion, multi-time United States Champion, beaten everybody there is to beat, INCLUDING THE UNDERTAKER! So don’t sell this kid short especially after the incredible beat down he put on the Phenom this past Friday. This match up … should be something to see.

Joey Styles:
The dominant John Cena against the undefeated at WrestleMania, The Phenom, The Undertaker.


***Bell Rings***





One On One:
“The Phenom” Undertaker vs. “The Boss” John Cena

The crowd remains its feet in anticipation, as this is the first of FIVE mega matches this evening. Cena keeps his eyes on the furious Undertaker as he takes off his T-shirt and then follows with his dog tags and hat, tossing them into the crowd. The crowd continues to buzz and a dueling chant builds up and our announcers for this match, Styles and Tazz, lay out allowing us to experience the incredible atmosphere while Taker and Cena continue to eye up one another …

“LETS GO CE-NA!!! LETS GO TA-KER!!! LETS GO CE-NA!!! LETS GO TA-KER!!!”

Cena and Taker begin to circle one another, moving around the ring before Taker moves in, throwing the first strike, but Cena avoids it, and hits Taker with a hard shot to the right side of his ribs, causing The Deadman to keel over. Another mixed reaction fills the stadium as Cena actually backs off and begins bouncing up and down, allowing Taker to regain his upright position which means one of two things; he’s stupid or incredibly confident. Either way, half of the audience is eating this up, cheering wildly for The Boss.

Taker and Cena once again begin to circle the ring, eyeing up one another, hands up near their faces like a couple of boxers. Taker throws a right which Cena manages to avoid. Cena goes for that rib shot again, but Taker sidesteps that, avoiding contact and then delivers a boot to the gut of Cena! The Phenom then grabs him by the hand and attempts to shoot him into the corner, but Cena counters and tosses Taker into the corner! Cena then unleashes on Taker in the corner, letting his fists fly, wailing away on the gut of The Undertaker with hard rights and lefts, until the referee finishes his five count and pulls him off!

Cena complains telling the referee to mind his own damn business, before turning back around to face The Undertaker. Taker snaps back to life, grabbing a hold of Cena’s neck and shoulders and tossing him into the corner with some extreme authority before HE lets loose on his young opponent with hard soup bones all over his face and body!! The ref gets up to a count of five and attempts to grab Taker, but The Deadman quickly turns around and the ref scurries away for dear life, diving out of the ring and to the outside!!

The Undertaker turns around and Cena tries to catch him off guard, looking for a right hand, but Taker’s ready for it, blocking the shot and rocking Cena with a right of his own! Taker then grabs his hand, backs him against the ring ropes and then shoots him off. Cena comes back and Taker takes the Doctor of Thuganomics down to the canvas with a boot right to the face! The crowd pops with a mixed reaction as Taker measures the downed Cena up and delivers a stomp right to his face!! Cena flips over onto his stomach and crawls toward the corner, using them to pull himself up.

Cena attempts to catch himself a breather but The Phenom will have none of it, following Cena into the corner and hitting a boot to the gut, before following up with a back elbow! Taker then grabs Cena by the hand and shoots him into the other corner, before charging in, looking for some high impact move, but Cena rocks The Deadman with a back elbow of his own, sending The Phenom reeling back towards the center of the ring. The Boss attempts to capitalize, charging out of the corner, but Taker’s far too quick, catching Cena with a strong right hand, sending him back down to the canvas!!

The Undertaker is feeling it, and raises his right hand into the air, garnering a mixed reaction, looking to put number 15 in the record books. Cena gets back up to his feet, clearly wobbly and turns around. Taker then wraps his arm around the throat of Cena - LOOKING FOR THE CHOKESLAM EARLY!!! Taker tosses Cena’s arm over his shoulder and goes to get him airborne, but The Doctor of Thuganomics will not be put away that easy, rocking The Phenom with hard back elbow, after hard back elbow, after hard back elbow, until Undertaker’s grip is finally broken!!

Cena then measures Taker up and hits a well placed head butt to the side of the head of The Undertaker, staggering the big man! Cena then quickly shoots off of the ropes and charges ahead, leaping into the air and rocking Taker with a flying shoulder block, sending The Deadman crashing through the ropes, to the outside and down to the floor below!! Cena takes a step towards the edge of the ring but is quickly admonished by the ref, telling him to stay inside the ring. Cena raises his hands up, insinuating that he is more than willing to oblige, allowing the referee to begin his ten count.

ONE - TWO - THREE - FOUR --- Cena quickly takes off, sliding under the bottom rope and outside of the ring as Taker begins to get back up to his feet. Undertaker turns around and Cena runs right through him, taking him down with a thunderous clothesline!! The Boss then goes wild stomping away on Taker with boot … after boot … after boot … after boot … after boot … after boot … after boot, in rapid and rabid succession!!! The Doctor of Thuganomics then rolls back into the ring, breaking up the ten count, before rolling back to the outside, blue eyes on fire, looking to pick up one of the biggest wins of all time.

Cena grabs The Phenom and lifts him back up this feet, drills him with a knee to the gut and following up with a hard right hand. Cena then grabs his hand and shoots him into the ring steps with tremendous authority!!! Taker’s knees hit the steps first and he flies right over them with incredible force!! The crowd groans in pain as the ref yells at Cena to get him back into the ring. Cena rolls back into the ring, before rolling right back to the outside, enjoying his first real advantage of the early stages of this match up.

Cena grabs a hold of Taker, brings The Phenom back up to his feet and tosses him back under the bottom rope, and back into the ring. The Boss soon follows him in, and rolls him toward the middle of the ring, before he covers him, hooking the far leg for leverage - the first of the match up!

…1...
………………………
… NO!
Taker gets a shoulder up and kicks out of the predicament. Cena sits up, hands on his knees, glaring at the ref, before getting all the way back up to his feet, dragging Taker up with him. Cena hits him with a right … and then another, knocking him back into the corner. Cena follows up with a couple more hard blows before bringing him towards the middle of the ropes and shooting him off. Taker comes back and Cena throws a clothesline, which Taker ducks, then bounces off of the ropes once more.

This time, it’s The Undertaker who throws the clothesline and Cena ducks it, causing Taker to hit the ropes once more. Finally, Taker comes back and Cena lifts him up, spins him around and PLANTS HIM WITH A POWERSLAM, and quickly goes for the cover, hooking the far leg!

…1...
………………………

…2…
… NO!
Taker kicks out once more but Cena stays on the attack, and mounts The Phenom, before raining down right hands onto his face - his exposed face as Taker can not manage to get his hands up to deflect the blows. A “Cena Sucks - Lets Go Cena” duel chant begins to mount as The Doctor of Thuganomics gets back up to his feet and stares down at the downed Phenom, thinking of what to attempt next. He grabs Undertaker by the hair and drags him up to his feet, quickly backing him up and shooting him off of the ropes. Cena bends over, but gets himself set to early though, as Taker telegraphs it, and makes him pay, hitting The Boss with a strong kick to the face!!

Cena’s face shoots up and Taker unloads on him, hitting several right hands in succession - five to be exact, before grabbing Cena by the hand and shooting him into the ropes. Cena comes back and Taker lifts him high into the air, taking him up and over with a back body drop! Cena gets up holding the small of his back and Taker doesn’t let up, kicking Cena in the gut, grabbing his hand and shooting the Doctor of Thuganomics into the corner!! Taker charges in after him and drills him with a strong clothesline!! Taker then grabs him and shoots him into the opposite corner, before charging in and hitting another strong clothesline!!

Cena stumbles out of the corner and Taker lifts him up onto his shoulder, then brings him back over to the corner and tosses him up, letting him drop on the top turnbuckle - hitting the Snake Eyes!! The crowd begins to come alive with the Taker contingent much louder than the Cena group at the moment! Cena wobbles around the ring dizzily and Taker shoots off of the ropes, looking for another big boot - but Cena ducks it and shoots off the ropes, coming back and taking The Deadman down with a flying shoulder tackle!!

The Cena fans come alive as he begins to show his trademark resilience - face or heel! Taker gets up to his feet and Cena flies once more, taking him down with another shoulder tackle!! Taker gets back up to his feet and Cena takes him down with a strong clothesline! Back up … another clothesline! Back up … one more!! This time, Taker gets back up to his feet rather slowly, throwing a wild right hand that Cena easily avoids, getting behind The Undertaker, lifting him up and HITTING THE KILLSWITCH POWERBOMB!!!

Cena pops right back up to his feet and takes a look around the arena, getting another thunderous mixed reaction, leaning towards cheers this time with the fans liking the intensity with which Cena attacks The Undertaker. Cena raises his hand up, saying “You Can’t See Me” to the fans, before doing it to Taker - BUT TAKER WRAPS HIS ARM AROUND HIS THROAT!!! Cena hits Taker with hard right hands to the face with extreme volatility until the hold is finally broken!! Cena then shoots off of the ropes, does his little shimmy, and HITS THE FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE!!!

The Boss gets right back up to his feet and waits for Taker to arise to his feet, blue eyes not moving from his prey as The Phenom slowly gets back up to a vertical base. Taker turns around and CENA LIFTS HIM ONTO HIS SHOULDERS … GOES FOR THE FU … AND HITS IT, PLANTING THE UNDERTAKER IN THE CENTER OF THE RING!!! The crowd roars as Cena covers The Deadman as the crowd counts along!!!

…1…

……………………...……….
…2…

…………………….
THREE
NO!!!!!!!
THE UNDERTAKER KICKS OUT OF THE FU … AND THEN SITS UP!!!! Cena looks on in absolute fear as he stares into the eyes of The Phenom, whom slowly rises up to his feet. Cena shakes his head in disbelief as the crowd goes wild for the undefeated Undertaker. Cena throws a right, which Taker blocks, and then rocks Cena with a right … and another right … and another right … and another right … and another right … two more, before grabbing Cena by the back of the head, running and throwing the Doctor of Thuganomics over the top rope and to the floor below!!

Taker climbs out of the ring and to the floor. He then lifts Cena up and then onto his shoulder before dropping him onto the ring barricade!! The crowd try to touch The Boss and The Phenom as Taker grabs Cena, brings him back up to his feet and rolls him back into the ring, before adjusting his body so that Cena’s neck and head hang off of the ring apron. The Undertaker rakes his forearm on the face of Cena before dropping an elbow on Cena’s throat!!

Taker then rolls back into the ring, before heading right back onto the apron where Cena rests. Taker then runs forward and leaps up, DROPPING HIS LEG ACROSS THE THROAT OF THE DOCTOR OF THUGANOMICS!!! Cena clutches at his throat in pain as The Undertaker takes the scenic route back into the ring, walking towards the ring steps and re-entering. Taker then grabs the leg of Cena and yanks him towards the center of the ring, before topping him, going for the cover, forearm in the face.

…1…
……………………...……….
…2…
…………………….
NO!!
Cena manages to kick out and Taker sits up, staring at the referee very intensely, before getting back up to his feet. The Undertaker then grabs Cena and brings him back up to his feet, measuring him up, before rocking him with a right hand. Taker then grabs Cena’s arm, twisting it, before backing up towards the corner and begins to climb up the turnbuckle, as the crowd yells out “OLD SCHOOOOOL”!! Cena will have none of it though, shaking his arm, causing Taker to lose his balance and crotch the top rope!!!

Taker looks to be in quite a bit of trouble as The Doctor of Thuganomics charges forward and drills Taker with an elbow, knocking him to the outside of the ring. Taker hit’s the floor and Cena crumbles to the canvas, but soon Taker uses the apron to help pull himself back up to his feet. Inside, Cena gets back up to his feet and exits through the ring ropes, before starting to ascend the turnbuckle. Taker climbs up onto the apron and sticks his head through the ropes, beginning to climb back into the ring as Cena makes it to the top.

The Boss then LEAPS OFF THE TOP ROPE AND HITS A LEG DROP RIGHT ACROSS THE BACK OF THE UNDERTAKER’S NECK!!!! The Deadman crumbles into the ring as the crowd goes wild. Cena grabs Taker, drags The Phenom towards the middle of the ring and then covers him, hooking the far leg for leverage, match in hand!

…1…

…………………….
…2…

… NO!
Taker kicks out! Frustrated, Cena grabs Taker by the hair and lifts The Deadman back up to a vertical base. Cena then gauges him up, before teeing off on The Phenom with a hard right … and then another … then another … another … two more! And then Cena pulls back, looking for a huge shot, but The Undertaker ducks it, avoiding contact, AND LOCKS IN THE DRAGON SLEEPER!!!

A mixed reaction fills the arena as The Undertaker has his massive left arm wrapped around the throat of The Doctor of Thuganomics, looking to choke him out. Cena struggles moving around but Taker’s viselike grip does not budge one bit as he intensely tightens his clutch on The Boss. Slowly but surely, Cena begins to fade; his movements become less and less animated … until finally, he stops moving and the crowd cheers - for the most part.

The referee asks Cena if he wishes to submit … but he gets no response. He then grabs the free hand of Cena and lifts it up … and it falls! ONE! The ref takes a second before lifting it back up a second time … and it falls again! TWO! The Cena contingent in the crowd begins to boo wildly, feeling a 15th WrestleMania victory for The Undertaker in hand. The referee once again grabs the free hand of Cena and lifts it up … AND IT FALLS AGAIN - BUT CENA QUICKLY BRINGS IT BACK UP!!

The audience explodes into a mixed reaction as Cena shows his never say die attitude! The Doctor of Thuganomics quickly spins around, wrapping his left arm around Taker’s neck before plowing into Cena with hard knees to the gut!! Cena then takes Taker’s arm and throws it over his shoulder, before hooking one of The Undertaker’s legs, LIFTS HIM UP AND THEN PLANTS THE PHENOM WITH THE FISHERMAN’S SUPLEX!!!

Cena gets back up to his feet slowly, as does The Undertaker, not staying down for long. Both men face each other once more, before The Boss kicks him in the gut, shoots off of the ropes, comes back AND HIT’S THE THROWBACK!!!! Cena then quickly turns The Undertaker over onto his back and covers him, hooking the far leg for leverage!

…1…

…………………….
…2…

… NO!
Undertaker kicks out once more and this time, Cena looks rather pissed off, almost growling with anger. He gets back up to his feet and stares at The Phenom, and then has the audacity to stand over him and gets right in to his face, telling him to “stay down”! TAKER SITS UP, AND GRABS HIM AROUND HIS THROAT!!! The crowd pops but CENA SLAPS HIM RIGHT ACROSS THE FACE, KNOCKING TAKER BACK DOWN!!!

Another mixed reaction explodes, some hating the arrogant youngster, while many love the defiant rebel. Cena barks at The Undertaker, pointing right into his face, before The Phenom REACHES UP AND GRABS HIS HAND, BEFORE QUICKLY WRAPPING HIS LEGS AROUND HIS THROAT WITH A TRIANGLE CHOKE!!!! Taker once again tries to choke out The Doctor of Thuganomics, as Cena begins to struggle to get out - struggle for survival. The Undertaker looks like he has things in hand … BUT CENA MUSCLES HIM UP - THEN CENA MUSCLES THE 300 POUNDER UP OFF THE CANVAS BEFORE SLAMMING HIM BACK DOWN WITH AUTHORITY!!!

Ford Field explodes, every single fan now standing up on their feet, now with MOST of the fans now in the corner of John Cena, damned impressed with his performance, guts and grit in this match up here tonight against the future hall of famer. A thunderous “CENA” chant starts up as The Boss grabs the hair of The Phenom and lifts him back up to his feet, and grabs his hand before shooting him into the corner.

Cena follows him in and climbs up onto the turnbuckle and begins to bring down the ten count of punches on The Phenom. ONE … TWO … THREE … FOUR … FIVE … SIX … SEVEN … EIGHT … NINE … TEN!!! The crowd cheers Cena on who smirks a bit … BUT TAKER GRABS HIM, BRING HIM OUT OF THE CORNER, LIFTS HIM HIGH INTO THE AIR … AND GOES FOR THE LAST RIDE - BUT CENA FIGHTS OUT OF IT SOMEHOW, LANDING BEHIND TAKER!!!

The Undertaker spins around and Cena lifts him up - GOING FOR THE FU -- BUT TAKER FIGHTS OFF OF HIS SHOULDERS!! Taker spins Cena around and grabs him around the throat - GOING FOR THE CHOKESLAM - but Cena fights out of it, hitting strong back elbows! Cena then grabs Taker’s hand and shoot him off the ropes. Cena gets set too early AND TAKER HIT’S A RUNNING DDT, laying Cena out!!!!

The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Taker gets back up to his feet and raises his hand up, waiting for Cena to get back up to his feet. The Doctor of Thuganomics stumbles up, holding his head, staggering around the ring, before turning around and Taker grabs him around the throat - LIFTS HIM HIGH UP - GOING FOR THE CHOKESLAM -- AND HITS IT, SLAMMING CENA DOWN TO THE CANVAS!!
TAKER WITH THE COVER!!!

…1…

…………………….
…2…

…………………………..
… THREE - NO!!!

CENA BARELY GETS A SHOULDER UP!!

The crowd roars (though still mixed) as Taker glares at the referee before staring down at Cena in complete disbelief, shaking his head. Taker soon refocuses though and gets back up to his feet, and stares around at the crowd, before giving the throat slash, and the crowd pops into another mixed reaction. The Undertaker drags Cena back up to his feet and then lifts him up onto his shoulder - IN POSITION FOR THE TOMBSTONE -- BUT Cena fights wildly, kicking his legs, until he switches position with The Phenom -- AND HAS HIM IN POSITION FOR THE TOMBSTONE, BEFORE TOSSING HIM ONTO BOTH SHOULDERS - INTO POSITION FOR THE FU -- GOES FOR IT -- AND HITS IT, PLANTING TAKER WITH THE FU!!!!!!

The audience explodes into the loudest reaction of the night as Cena takes a breath, before covering The Phenom, hooking BOTH legs!

…1…

…………………….
…2…

………………………………....

… THREE - NO!!!!
THE UNDERTAKER KICKS OUT!!! The crowd explodes as The Boss doesn’t look pissed, but incredibly disappointed, holding his head in his hands. An “Undertaker” chant starts up as Cena gets back up to his feet, his look of disenchantment turning into one of determination as he turns to the crowd and holds up his right index finger, mouthing “one more” before he gets into a crouching position, stalking The Phenom.

The Undertaker slowly gets back up to his feet, using the ropes to get him up to a vertical base. Taker staggers around and turns back to Cena and The Doctor of Thuganomics LIFTS HIM UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS - LOOKING FOR THE FU - BUT TAKER FIGHTS OFF OF HIS SHOULDERS, landing behind him! Cena spins around and Taker kicks him in the gut, before tucking The Boss between his legs - LOOKING FOR THE LAST RIDE - BUT CENA COUNTERS, drops down and trips up The Undertaker -- LOCKING IN THE STFU!!!

Once more, the crowd is at a fever pitch as the veins in Cena’s arms and the intensity on his face increase tenfold as The Doctor of Thuganomics attempts to snuff out all signs of life of The Phenom!! Taker though struggles for survival, using his strength to muscle his way towards the ring ropes inch by inch, ever so slowly as can be, while Cena doesn’t let up a bit!! Taker reaches out … … … but can’t quite reach the ropes and Cena pulls back even harder!!!

“TAAAAAAPPPPPP!!!!!”

Cena yells at the top of his lungs as do many of Cena’s fans as The Undertaker continues to attempt to reach the ropes, managing to crawl forward another inch and reaches out …
… GRABBING THE BOTTOM ROPE …
… but Cena quickly lets go of the hold, grabs Undertaker’s foot and drags him far away from the ropes, even past the middle of the ring, before LOCKING IN THE STFU ONE MORE TIME!!!!!!!!!

This time, Taker puts up a struggle as well but it’s almost of no use, the adrenaline rush passing after he used every single last bit of his energy to reach the ring ropes the first time. The Phenom soon fades as the intensity on the face of Cena is still at an extreme level. The hands of The Phenom soon stop moving and the referee touches his hand a bit, making sure that he’s completely out of it. Cena yells at him to “RAISE THE ARM” and the referee does as he’s told.

He lifts Taker’s arm once … it falls! ONE! An “Undertaker” chant starts up as the ref lifts his hand up once more … and once more … it falls! TWO!! Cena continues to squeeze with every fiber of his being as the referee grabs his hand once more and once more lifts it up … … …





IT FALLS A THIRD TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!

The crowd explodes into a tremendous ovation which soon degenerates into quite a few boos AS CENA WINS!!!!!! AND THE STREAK IS OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Winner: AND THE FIRST MAN TO DEFEAT THE UNDERTAKER AT WRESTLEMANIA, JOHN CENA at 20:03!!!!


Cena raises his hands up and pounds his chest to the intense delight AND disdain of the fans in attendance, clearly pumped up for one of the biggest all-time wins in the history of this sport!!


Joey Styles:
JOHN CENA HAS DONE IT!!! John Cena is the first man to defeat The Undertaker at WrestleMania!! THE BOSS - IS - HERE!!

Tazz:
I don’t believe this! This place is going absolutely crazy with emotion. You don’t have to like him but you’ve gotta applaud the man for what he’s accomplished here tonight! Something no man before him has done!


The ref walks over to Cena … and pulls his hand down!!!! Cena looks at the referee, asking what the hell the problem is, and the ref points …

TO THE UNDERTAKER’S FOOT ON THE BOTTOM ROPE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The image appears on the titantron and the audience explodes into a thunderous mixed reaction as Cena stares at the foot motionless, emotionless, cold and detached, in complete disbelief, thinking that this match up was won. Taker slowly gets back up to his feet, and Cena’s expression changes from shocked to BLINDING ANGER! Cena charges and explodes on The Undertaker with hard right after hard right hand completely unloading with shot after shot, non stop!!! The ref tries to pull him off but Cena shoves him off and continues to hammer away at the face of The Phenom!!

Cena shoots off the ropes and charges, looking for a decapitating clothesline, but Taker ducks it - AND LIFTS CENA ONTO HIS SHOULDERS -- INTO POSITION FOR THE TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER -- AND HITS IT!!!!!!!

A tremendous mixed reaction engulfs the arena as Taker takes a second to regain himself before applying the Darkness Pin!!!!

…1…

……………….
…2…

…………………………..…..

!!!THREE!!!
Winner: And STILL UNDEFEATED - 15 and 0 - THE UNDERTAKER at 21:10.


The Undertaker lets go of the cover and just puts his hands on his knees, completely drained both physically and mentally from the greatest challenge of his career - his fifteenth victory at a WrestleMania - defeating one of the baddest motherfuckers in the company.


Joey Styles:
It took a long while, it looked like it wouldn’t happen, it was as close as can be, but The Undertaker once again reigns victorious here at WrestleMania with the Tombstone Piledriver!!!

Tazz:
It’s happened fifteen different times but no time in history has Taker come so close to the brink of defeat before pulling it out. The Phenom has shown that he REFUSES to be defeated at this event!


Undertaker raises his arm out and sticks out his freakishly large tongue as the crowd cheers and a purplish aura overtakes the arena. Taker gets back up to his feet and heads up the entrance ramp, pulling the straps down off of his attire. Taker reaches the top of the ramp and raises his arm to another pop, before heading through the curtain, successfully for the fifteenth time.

Inside the ring, the referee helps John Cena up to his feet as Taker’s music is cut. Cena stands in the middle of the ring, looking incredibly disappointed but the fans stand on their feet and applaud wildly for The Boss.


Joey Styles:
He wouldn’t want to hear it at this point because he didn’t pick up the victory, but this has got to be considered a moral victory for John Cena. This man came closer to ending The Undertaker’s WrestleMania streak than anyone before him. Closer than icons, Ric Flair, Triple H. Closer than Kane and Mark Henry. Closer than Randy Orton. Cena had this thing one on numerous occasions.

Tazz:
No doubt about it. A second or two here or there and Cena picks up the win. I mean, we all thought he won the match with that STFU. He choked The Undertaker out with that hold. It just wasn’t his night but he can leave this arena with his head up high.


The crowd continues to applaud as Cena holds his head down … and then drops the referee with a right hand!! A mixed reaction fills Ford Field as Cena stomps away on the poor bastard before bringing him back up to his feet and dropping him back down with a NASTY FU!! Cena then leaves the ring and storms back up the ramp, incensed, clearly not happy with a “moral victory”.



***



Definition flashes across the screen…

Backlash;
1. strong reaction: a strong adverse reaction among a group of people to an event, development, or trend, especially one that benefits another group
2. violent backward movement: a sudden violent backward jerking movement

Rapid flashing shots of…

- Stone Cold Stunner from Austin to Angle.

- Angle Slam from Angle to Austin.

- Demon Bomb from Batista to Kennedy.

- Chair shot from KK to Batista.

- Clothesline From Hell from JBL to Carlito.

- Rock Bottom to Triple H.

- Five Star Frog Splash from RVD to Masters.

- FU to The Undertaker from Cena.

- Sweet Chin Music from Michaels to Edge.

- Daniels and Mysterio face to face

- Spear from Edge to Orton.

- Benjamin leaping to the top turnbuckle before suplexing London

- RKO from Orton to Michaels.

“The Backlash …”

- Quick angry shots of Edge, Austin, Kennedy and Rock.

“… has begun.”



“WWE Backlash, April 29th, 8/7CT, live on pay-per-view”



***



Austin-Angle Video Package:
- Austin sets the world on fire, winning the 1996 King of the Ring before cutting his infamous 3:16 promo. Stone Cold has his incredible feud with Bret Hart, including the match of the century with Bret at WrestleMania 13. The following year, he captures the Championship.

Jim Ross:
The Austin Era has begun!

- Stone Cold reeks havoc on the WWF during the late 90s, reigning as the biggest and most popular figure in the business with his brash attitude, raunchy way with words, and his often explosive antics, from the beer truck, to the Zamboni, and constantly Stunning the boss.

Steve Austin:
Stone Cold does what he wants when he wants and that’s the bottom line, ‘cause Stone Cold said so!



Jim Ross: THAT CAR JUST RAN OVER AUSTIN!!

- While Austin goes on the shelf in late ‘99, 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle debuts.

Kurt Angle: I follow The Three I’s - Intensity, Integrity and Intelligence.

- Angle establishes himself as a main event force in wrestling during the year 2000, winning the Intercontinental Championship, European Title, King of the Ring and WWF Championship all throughout.

- Late in the year, Austin returns…

Jim Ross: Stone Cold Steve Austin is back and all hell is gonna break loose!

- Austin comes back in late 2000 and it’s almost as if he hasn’t missed a beat, winning the WWF Championship at WrestleMania 17. Austin has one of the most successful years of his career and even has a couple of close, brutal encounters with Kurt Angle. But in the end, it’s Austin who comes out the ultimate victor in the short-lived but intense rivalry.

- Austin continues to be a top flight superstar and a well established icon of the sport until he retires from wrestling after a modern classic against The Rock at WM19 in 2003.

Jim Ross: Have we seen the last of Stone Cold Steve Austin??

- In 2003 and 2004, with many of the icons of the current generation taking lesser roles and retiring (Austin, Rock, Taker), Kurt Angle does his DAMNEDEST to set himself up as THE man in professional wrestling - and does quite well - putting on classic matches with Eddie Guerrero, Chris Benoit, Brock Lesnar, Edge and a host of others, while winning several titles.

Michael Cole: We could be seeing one of the greatest stars to come through these halls in a long time.

- Angle REALLY establishes himself in 2005 and 2006, having a couple of dream matches with Shawn Michaels, before winning the World Heavyweight Championship in Jan. 2006.

- Throughout the year 2006, Angle defeats Mark Henry, The Undertaker, Chris Benoit, Rey Mysterio, Randy Orton, The Big Show, King Booker and Batista, officially making himself an ICON in the sport.

- September of 2006, Stone Cold Steve Austin returns to the WWE!!

Steve Austin:
Stone Cold Steve Austin is back … and I am gonna raise more hell in this ring than ever before … and THAT’S THE BOTTOM LINE … CAUSE STONE COLD SAID SO!!!

- In October 2006, Kurt Angle loses the World Title to Batista and fails on several occasions to get it back. Angle grows more and more frustrated, and that climaxes in a confrontation with Stone Cold at the Royal Rumble…

Steve Austin:
I didn’t come back at the risk of ending up in a damn wheelchair to be some curtain jerker or a damn scrub.

Kurt Angle:
You keep messing with me and I’ll be the one to put you in a damn wheelchair, Austin.

Steve Austin:
I suggest you watch your tone. Don’t be threatenin’ me, son.

Angle gets into the face of The Rattlesnake.

Kurt Angle:
I don’t make threats, I make promises.

- Austin and Angle meet in the Royal Rumble match and though Austin hit’s a Stunner on Angle, it’s Kurt who tosses Stone Cold from the ring, eliminating him from the match up. Austin gets his revenge though, sliding back in and giving Angle another Stunner.

- Kurt makes the move to Monday Night Raw and once more, the two superstars have several verbal confrontations. The match is set up for WrestleMania 23, billed as Icon vs. Icon, with Angle calling Austin a washed up, shell of his former self…

Kurt Angle:
Now, it’s {beating Austin} almost something be ashamed of. It’s something to look down upon; beating up a broken down, washed up, fat, out of shape, drunk, old man. Let’s be honest, that’s all it really is, right, Austin?? Beating you is no feat, beating you is certainly no accolade … but that doesn’t mean I won’t revel in doing it six days from tonight at WrestleMania 23.

- Austin retorts.

Steve Austin:
Yeah, I’m older. Yeah, I’m slower. And oh hell yeah, my body’s more worn down than it’s ever been but the fact still remains the same; come hell or high water, bad neck or bad back, Stone Cold Steve Austin is rolling into Ford Field as the same damn son of a bitch that put on a war with Bret “The Hitman” Hart ten years ago at WrestleMania 13!

Stone Cold Steve Austin is the same son of a bitch that gave The Rock three of the most vicious battles that this business has ever seen at a WrestleMania. The same Stone Cold that beat Scott Hall and Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania. The same Stone Cold that put several whoopins on your ass a couple of years ago. The same Stone Cold that took this business, flipped it upside down on it’s head, and in this ring, rose more hell than ever seen before!!

- Clips of Angle and Austin destroying opponents.

Kurt Angle:
Oh believe me, I’m going to enjoy each and every last second of it. Watching you gasp for air, watching you scream for agony as I pick you apart piece by piece, listening to you BEG and PLEAD for me not to end your career on the grandest stage of them all … right before I snap your ankle into two separate pieces. I’m gonna do more than enjoy that. I’m gonna bask in that feeling. I welcome it with more than open arms; knowing that this whole thing wasn’t just because I wanted to, but because it was absolutely necessary.

I’m gonna love WrestleMania 23 as much as you should embrace it. The end of an era - the Austin Era - but the beginning of a new one, a better one. The end is near, Austin … the end is HERE, Austin. Get ready.

- Austin stunning Angle on the last Raw before WM.

Steve Austin:
So don’t tell me you think I’m washed up, because you ain’t that stupid, you ain’t that naïve and if you are, you’re in for the biggest shock, and biggest ass whooping of a lifetime at WrestleMania 23 … AND THAT’S THE BOTTOM LIIIINE -- CAUSE STONE COLD SAID SO!!!

- Final clip of Austin and Angle face to face at the Royal Rumble.



***



***MEDAL***

The crowd explodes into a mixed reaction, but it soon turns to mostly heat, as “The Wrestling Machine” Kurt Angle steps out onto the WrestleMania stage, dawned in all black attire, looking incredibly intense and focused for one of the biggest matches of his career. Angle raises his hands up and sets off his tremendous pyro before continuing on down to the ring.


Lillian Garcia:
The following contest is a singles match - Icon versus Icon!
(Crowd cheers)Introducing first … from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania … weighing in at 233 pounds … the 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist … THE WRESTLING MACHINE … KURT ANGLE!!


Angle steps into the ring and does a spin, gaining another mixed reaction. The camera then closes in on Angle’s mouth, focusing in on his mouthpiece, which reads “destruction”.


Jim Ross:
There he is! Quite possibly the greatest professional AND amateur wrestler in the history of this great sport, Kurt Angle is one of a kind. Despite every single accolade he’s gotten, Kurt Angle feels that he has got something to prove against Stone Cold here tonight.

Jerry Lawler:
I don’t think Angle’s got anything to prove here tonight. He’s won World Title after World Title. The WWE Championship, WCW Championship, World Heavyweight Championship, Intercontinental Title, United States Title, he’s a Grand Slam Champion. Angle’s accomplishments are endless.

Jim Ross:
But he’s never defeated a star the magnitude of Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania. He’s got his chance here tonight at WrestleMania 23, Ford Field on the grandest stage of them all.

Jerry Lawler:
If Kurt wants to leave with a victory over The Rattlesnake, he has to keep it on the ground. He’s an Olympic Gold Medalist. You don’t want to brawl with Stone Cold Steve Austin.


***GLASS SHATTERS***

Ford Field explodes into a thunderous ovation as Stone Cold Steve Austin steps out onto the stage, dressed in his typical black attire, and trademark vest, his BMF walk in full tow as he storms down to the ring.


Lillian Garcia:
And his opponent … from Victoria, Texas … weighing in at 252 pounds … THE TEXAS RATTLESNAKE … STONE COLD STEVE AUSTIN!!!


Austin climbs the ring steps and enters the ring, eyeing up Kurt Angle, before walking over to the corner, and climbing the turnbuckle to the sight of thousands of flash bulbs and a tremendous pop. Austin gets down and does it three more times, with much of the same response before getting down.


Jim Ross:
Arguably, the greatest WWE Champion of all time, Stone Cold Steve Austin is partially responsible for the mega event that WrestleMania has become. The biggest draw in the history of this sport. The Texas Rattlesnake may - possibly may not be at the same level as he was ten years ago, but he’s still the toughest son of a bitch in the WWE!

Jerry Lawler:
We know you’re in love with Stone Cold, J.R. But yeah, you’re right. Stone Cold Steve Austin was the biggest star on this planet. And at one time, he was the best wrestler here as well, a MULTIPLE time WWE Champion. But now, that distinction goes Kurt Angle. Angle is the man now, and it’s time for Austin to take his ball and go home.

Jim Ross:
Well that’s your opinion and you’re entitled to it, but since Stone Cold has come back, he’s shown that he can still hand with the big dogs. He beat JBL at Bad Blood in November, he carried Team Raw at Survivor Series, he handled his own at the Royal Rumble putting on a great performance, and he’s been having Kurt Angle on the run for months now. Never underestimate The Rattlesnake.

Jerry Lawler:
Whatever you say, J.R. When you’re talking about Kurt Angle, you’re talking about a man who lasted a full 65 MINUTES in the Royal Rumble Match and ELIMINATED Stone Cold Steve Austin from that match. Austin better find himself a time machine and find it quick, because in 2007, NOBODY can hang with Kurt Angle.


Angle takes his Gold Medal off and hands it to the timekeeper before he and Austin move toward the middle of the ring. The two superstars eye each other up before the ref rings the bell.


***Bell Rings***





Icon vs. Icon:
‘The Wrestling Machine’ Kurt Angle vs. ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin

Angle and Austin continue to stare a whole through one another, while Stone Cold attempts to take off his leather vest. Angle does not wait for him to get it all the way off though and instead, attempts to throw a right, but Austin blocks it and hits Angle with a hard right hand of his own … and another … and one more! The Texas Rattlesnake then grabs Angle by the hand and attempts the Irish whip, but Angle counters, sending Austin in to the ring ropes.

Angle gets set too early and Austin kicks him in the face with a boot, causing The Wrestling Machine’s head and neck to snap back up. Stone Cold then throws a clothesline but Angle ducks it, avoiding contact. Angle charges but Austin hits a boot to the gut and then - GOES FOR THE STUNNER EARLY - but Angle counters by shoving Austin off before rolling to the outside of the ring, catching himself an early breather.

The crowd cheers as Austin lets out a smirk, and finishes taking off his leather vest, while Angle kicks the steel steps on the outside, pissed that Austin has gained the psychological advantage in the early going. The ref tells Angle to get back in the ring, and the Olympian responds by telling him to shut the hell up, before he takes the scenic route, and climbs the ring steps. He stays on the Angle a bit and stares at the smirking Austin, before stepping back into the ring.

An “Austin” chant starts up as the two superstars move towards the middle of the ring and get ready to lock up … but Angle backs up, and climbs to the outside of the ring. The crowd boos and Austin shakes his head as Angle once more walks around the ringside area, trying to refocus, and get his head together for this match up. The ref tells Angle to get in and The Wrestling Machine climbs up onto the apron and steps into the ring … before stepping right out again!

The crowd now boos furiously as Austin seems to be getting rather frustrated. Kurt takes his mouthpiece out and breathes heavily before climbing back onto the apron and stepping back into the ring. Angle raises his hand up, challenging Austin to a test of strength as it would seem. The Rattlesnake looks around at the crowd, smirking away as the crowd gives him a more than positive response. Stone Cold then attempts to engage but Angle drops his hands down and then rolls out of the ring - to tremendous heat!!

Angle yells “I’LL TAKE MY DAMN TIME!!” before walking around the ring. Austin has had enough though, quickly shoving the referee out of the way and following Angle to the outside! THE CHASE IS ON! Angle hauls ass with Stone Cold in hot pursuit, before Kurt attempts to slide into the ring, but Austin grabs his leg and yanks him back to the outside! Angle quickly hits a thumb to the eye, stunning Austin and sliding back into the ring.

Austin staggers around and Angle shoots off the ropes and then goes for a baseball slide - but Austin moves out of the way, apparently playing a bit of possum, as Angle slides all the way to the outside! Stone Cold then measures him up and runs The Wrestling Machine over with a clothesline, taking him down! The Rattlesnake then stomps away on Angle, using his style to wear Kurt down here in the early going. The referee doesn’t even bother with the ten count as Austin lifts Angle back up to his feet and slams his face onto the ring apron! Stone Cold then lifts Angle up and slams his face onto the fan barricade, as the crowd goes wild.

Austin then tosses Angle under the bottom rope and back into the ring. Stone Cold plays to the crowd a bit, talking a bit, before climbing up onto the apron and back into the ring. Austin attempts to follow up on Angle but the Olympian quickly grabs an Ankle Pick on Stone Cold, taking him down to the canvas, before snatching in a side headlock! Angle puts a tight grip around the head of the bald future hall of famer as both superstars make their way back up to their feet.

Austin then backs up and shoots Angle off of the ropes. Kurt comes back and Austin throws a lariat but Angle ducks it and bounces off the ropes once more, only to run into a back elbow from Austin! Stone Cold follows up with a few stomps to the face, before grabbing Angle and lifting him back up to his feet. He grabs a hold of his right hand before going to shoot the Olympian into the ropes, but Kurt counters, and sends Austin in with the Irish whip. The Texas Rattlesnake comes right into the awaiting arms of Angle, as Kurt wraps them around Austin’s midsection, before popping his hips and taking Stone Cold up and over with a picture perfect belly to belly suplex!!

The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Angle gets back up to his feet and holds his arms out, letting out a “WOO” with a smile on his face. He lifts Austin back up to a vertical base and locks his arms around his waist once more, pops his hips and takes Austin up and over once more with a second belly to belly suplex!! Instead of taunting though, this time, Angle decides to cover Austin, hooking the far leg for the first of the match.

…1…
…………………….

…2…
NO!
Austin kicks out, but it’s of no matter to Angle, whom gets back up to his feet, soon bringing The Rattlesnake up with him. Angle grabs Austin by the hand and shoots him into the corner. Angle follows him in and throws a right, but Austin blocks it, and fires a right of his own … then a knife edged chop … then a right … then a chop … two rights … but Angle then knees him in the midsection, cutting off his momentum. Kurt then holds his head with one hand and rocks him with the other sending Austin stumbling into the corner with a very strong and well placed European Uppercut!

Angle then “shows his hand”, his strategy for the match up and kicks Austin right on his left knee brace!! Kurt then trips Austin up onto his back, grabs him by the left leg, and drags him towards the center of the ring, before he drops an elbow right across the leg! Angle gets back up, keeping control of the leg, and then drops another well placed elbow on his leg!! The Wrestling Machine gets back up to his feet and then delivers a stomp to Austin’s leg - and then another, before grabbing The Rattlesnake and bringing him back up to his feet.

Kurt grabs Austin’s arm and then the Olympic Gold Medalist uses the Irish whip to send Austin into the ropes, with a clear limp. Stone Cold comes back and Angle drops down, hitting a lightning quick dropkick to the targeted knee causing Austin to drop right down to the canvas in pain, clutching at the injured leg. Angle then grabs Austin by the leg and drags him towards the corner. The Wrestling Machine then steps out onto the apron and then to the floor, before once more grabbing Austin’s leg and dragging him, this time around the ring post!

The crowd boos as Angle grabs a hold of both legs and soon begins trash talking, telling Austin to prepare for some of the worst pain in his life … but Austin flips him off, to a thunderous ovation! Angle boils with anger, and that distraction costs him, as Stone Cold uses the remaining strength in his lower body to pull Angle forward, causing The Wresting Machine’s face to slam right INTO THE STEEL TURNPOST!!

Ford Field cheers Austin on as The Rattlesnake uses his arms and hands to drag himself towards the far corner, and rests against the bottom turnbuckle, knowing he’s bought himself a bit of time here. Angle lies on the ground, holding his face, as Austin stretches his knee out, attempting to get back into this thing. Soon enough, Angle gets back up to his feet, clearly pissed, and climbs back into the ring. He goes after Austin in the corner … but The Rattlesnake kicks him in the gut with right boot, causing Angle to stumble backward! Austin uses the ropes to pull himself back up, as Angle follows him in once more, and once more Austin hit’s a boot to the gut, knocking Angle backward.

This time though, The Texas Rattlesnake comes out of the corner and begins to fire off hard right hand, after right hand, after right hand, just blasting away on the face of The Wrestling Machine!

Austin shakes his leg a bit, still feeling a bit of the effects but shakes them off, grabs the hand of Angle and uses the Irish whip to send Kurt into the ropes. Angle comes back and Austin throws a clothesline, which The Wrestling Machine avoids, bouncing off the ropes once more. Kurt comes back again and Austin goes for the big elbow he hit successfully earlier, but Angle is ready for it, ducking this one. Angle hits the ropes one more time … but Austin leaps up, hitting the LOU THESZ PRESS, taking Angle down and pounding away on his face with long succession of right hands, much to the approval of the thousands of fans jam packed in the arena! Austin finishes up and gets back up to his feet, bounces off the ropes, flips the double bird and drops the point of his elbow right across the face of The Wrestling Machine!! Austin then covers him, hooking the far leg.

…1…
…………………….

…2…

NO!
Angle kicks out! Austin stares at the referee, holding up three fingers rather forcefully, causing the ref to restate his two count. Austin gets back up to his feet, adjusting his trunks and makes the mistake of turning his back on Angle, WHO GRABS THE LEG OF AUSTIN, TAKES HIM DOWN AND GOES FOR THE ANKLE LOCK!! The crowd responds in complete shock, but Austin does not panic, quickly reacting and rolling through, breaking the grip!! Angle hit’s the ropes and holds on as Austin gets back up to his feet. Stone Cold charges and takes Angle over the top rope and to the floor with a clothesline!!

Austin takes a second to regain himself, shaking that left leg once more, before dropping down, rolling out of the ring and to the outside. Stone Cold lifts Angle up to his feet and slams his face against the announce table! Angle stumbles around, dazed, before Austin grabs him by the back of the head and once more introduces him to the announce table face first!! Austin then decides to get greedy, grabbing the hand of Angle and going to Irish whip him into the steel steps, but Angle counters and sends Stone Cold into the steps … but Austin stops his momentum before he comes into contact with them!

The Texas Rattlesnake then turns around and charges at Angle but Kurt quickly reacts, wraps his arms around him, pops the hips, and takes Austin up and over with BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX ON THE FLOOR!!! The crowd groans as Angle rolls back into the ring, yelling at the referee to check up on him. The ref begins his ten count as Angle walks over to the far turnbuckle and THEN ANGLE TAKES OFF THE PROTECTIVE PADDING ON THE TURNBUCKLE, tossing it away.

On the outside, Austin gets up clutching his back in pain, before struggling onto the apron. Angle walks over and hits Austin with a sharp shoulder thrust to the gut, before reaching over, wrapping his arm around Austin’s hand, tossing Steve’s free arm over his neck and then bringing Austin back into the ring with suplex!! Angle then floats over for the cover, forearm in the face.

…1…
…………………….

…2…
……………………………
… NO!
Austin gets his shoulder up. Angle shakes his head, before getting back up to his feet and walking around a bit, hands on his hips, plotting his next move. A “You Suck” chant starts up but that doesn’t distract the 1996 Olympian, who grabs Austin and brings him back up to his feet. Stone Cold gets up fighting though, firing off a right hand, and then two more, but Angle ducks the fourth attempt at a shot, and ends up behind Austin.

Kurt then wraps his arms around his waist, and goes for a German Suplex - but Austin holds onto the top rope, refusing to be dumped onto his neck! Angle delivers some hard shots to the back of the back and neck, breaking Austin’s grip of the top rope before bringing him towards the middle of the ring. Kurt then goes for the German Suplex once more, but Austin performs a standing switch, ending up behind Angle, and then wraps his arms around him and TAKES ANGLE DOWN WITH A GERMAN SUPLEX!!

Austin keeps his hands clasped together and brings himself and Angle back up to a vertical base, before TAKING ANGLE DOWN WITH A SECOND GERMAN SUPLEX!!! Austin keeps his hands together but comes up more slowly this time - with these suplexes obviously taking quite a bit out of himself as well. Austin GOES FOR A THIRD GERMAN - but Angle blocks it, using his feet to stop it from happening! Angle then rolls forwards, which takes Austin down - AND ONCE MORE GOES FOR THE ANKLE LOCK - but Austin flips over onto his back and kicks Angle off!!

Angle stumbles backward towards the corner with the exposed turnbuckle as Stone Cold gets back up to his feet. Austin charges and goes for a clothesline, but Angle ducks it and Austin spins all the way around. Angle then grabs him around the waist AND GERMAN SUPLEXES AUSTIN NECK FIRST INTO THE EXPOSED STEEL TURNBUCKLE!!!!! The audience responds with shock but that soon turns into a hushed silence as Austin flops down to the canvas, frantically clutching at the back of his surgically repaired neck! The referee looks around for the turnbuckle pad as Angle gets back up to his feet, cold blue eyes showing not one hint of compassion as he stares down at his fallen opponent.

Angle grabs a hold of Austin and brings him to his feet as the referee spots the pad on the outside and quickly goes to retrieve it. Angle then grabs the back of Austin’s head and SLAMS IT AGAINST THE EXPOSED TURNBUCKLE!!! Austin crumbles back down to the canvas in pain as Angle is booed ferociously. Finally, the referee re-enters the ring, pad in hand and goes to reattach it to the steel turnbuckle, but it may be too little - too late as Austin seems almost out of it at this point.

The Wrestling Machine doesn’t let up one bit, like a shark that smells blood. Angle mounts Austin and begins to rain down right hands on the face. Right … after right … after right … after right … after right … after right … after right … after right … after right!!! Eventually, the right hand of the Olympic Gold Medalist is covered with the BLOOD of The Rattlesnake!! An “Austin” chant starts up as The Rattlesnake is a bloody mess, with this perfect athlete of destruction staring down at him. Ross screams for Angle to end the damn thing already and that could very well be the case as Angle slowly pulls down the straps of his attire and stalks the downed Rattlesnake, hands on his knees.

Angle doesn’t stomp, he doesn’t scream or holler, he just waits … and waits … and waits, patient as can be, cold blue eyes merely waiting for their opportunity. Austin turns onto his stomach and wipes the blood out of his face, before crawling towards the ropes. Angle continues to stalk him as Stone Cold uses the ropes to pull himself back up to a vertical base. Austin finally straightens up and turns around, right into a boot from Angle! Kurt then goes for the ANGLE SLAM - but Austin counters, landing behind him and shooting Kurt off of the ropes! Kurt comes back and Austin lifts him up before slamming him down WITH ONE HELL OF A SPINEBUSTER, flattening Angle!!

The crowd pops huge for the fight still left in Stone Cold but Austin soon flops down to the canvas as well after that desperation counter. The ref begins his double knockdown ten count.
… ONE …
… TWO …
… THREE …
… FOUR …
… FIVE …
Angle is the first to get back up to his feet and soon walks over to the still downed Austin, bring the Texas Rattlesnake back up to his feet … but Austin still has fight left in him!! He hits a right hand … and then another … and then a couple more, rocking the Olympian, even with blood obscuring his view! Austin grabs Angle by the hand, backs him up and goes to Irish whip him off, but Kurt counters, and sends Austin in! Stone Cold comes back and catches Angle getting set too early. He scoops Angle up and slams The Wrestling Machine down the canvas with a body slam!

Austin then walks over to the corner and climbs to the middle turnbuckle, before flipping Angle the double bird and hitting that vintage elbow off of the middle rope!! The crowd cheers wildly as The Rattlesnake gets back up to his feet, wiping the blood from his face, BEGGING for Angle to get back up to his feet!! Angle gets back up, holding his face. Kurt turns around and - AUSTIN KICKS - but Angle catches his boot - spins him around - KICKS AUSTIN AND HITS THE STONE COLD STUNNER ON STONE COLD!!! The crowd boos as Austin falls down to the canvas and Angle quickly tops him, hooking the far leg!!

…1…

………………….……….
…2…

……………………..
… THR - NO!!!
AUSTIN KICKS OUT!!! Ford Field erupts as Angle holds his head in his hands in disappointment, just missing embarrassing Austin to an extreme degree. Angle gets back up to his feet before mounting Austin again and once more, begins to rain down shots on The Rattlesnake’s bloody face, keeping that wound open, as Austin’s face begins to pour! Angle then grabs Austin and forcefully drags him towards the corner!

Angle then turns around and slowly begins to ascend to the top turnbuckle. He finally gets there, makes sure he’s got his complete balance and then LEAPS OFF - LOOKING FOR THE MOONSAULT - BUT AUSTIN ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY - CAUSING ANGLE TO CRASH AND BURN!!!! Angle gets up holding his stomach as The Rattlesnake gets up as well. Austin once again goes for the STUNNER -- but Angle catches his boot, spins him around … AND GOES FOR THE ANGLE SLAM -- BUT AUSTIN COUNTERS, landing behind him and then -- AUSTIN HITS THE ANGLE SLAM ON ANGLE!!! The crowd cheers as Austin covers him, hooking the near leg!

…1…

………………….……….
…2…

……………………..
… T-- NO!!!
ANGLE KICKS OUT!!! Both Austin and Angle lay out on the canvas as the audience begins applauding seemingly for the damned inspiring performances from both icons here tonight. Eventually both superstars struggle back up to a vertical base … but it is Austin who strikes first, hitting a couple of strong right hands, backing Angle up into the corner! Stone Cold then proceeds to go to work on Angle in the corner!

Stomp to Angle - {What} - Stomp - {What} - Stomp - {What} - Stomp - {What} -Stomp - {What}! Eventually, the crowd can’t catch up the rapidity of Austin’s stomps until The Rattlesnake stops to flip Angle off, before going for one final stomp - but ANGLE CATCHES HIS BOOT!! Austin hops up and down on one leg as Angle gets back up to his feet!! Angle spins him around, GOES FOR THE ANGLE SLAM -- AND HITS IT!!! Boos fill the arena as Angle smiles - FINALLY hitting it, before going for the cover.

…1…

………………….……….
…2…

……………………..
!!!THREE-- NO!!!
AUSTIN GETS A SHOULDER UP!!! The roof completely comes off the place as Angle goes crazy, getting back up to his feet and stamping up and down wildly, completely incensed that Austin managed to kick out of his finishing maneuver. After several seconds, Austin struggles back up to his feet and Angle grabs his hand, looking for the Irish whip - but Austin counters, turning his arm inside out - AUSTIN THEN HITS THE KICK - AND STONE COLD STUNNER ON ANGLE!!!
AUSTIN WITH THE COVER, JUST MANAGING TO GET AN ARM OVER THE CHEST OF ANGLE!!!

…1…

………………….……….
…2…

……………………..
!!!THREE-
NO!!!
ANGLE GETS HIS SHOULDER UP!!!! Austin gets up and looks around the arena in complete shock as the thousands of fans crammed into this arena are ALL on their feet, witnessing this incredible display of guts and fortitude from both men here tonight. Austin’s forehead still gushes blood and he once more wipes it from his face, as he gets back up to his feet … BUT ANGLE GRABS A HOLD OF AUSTIN’S ANKLE - GOING FOR THE ANKLE LOCK!!!

AUSTIN ROLLS THROUGH … BUT ANGLE KEEPS IT LOCKED ON!!! Austin flips over onto his back and attempts to shove Angle off … BUT ANGLE KEEPS IT LOCKED ON - HIS VISELIKE GRIP LOCKED IN!!! AUSTIN crawls forward and REACHES OUT FOR THE ROPES AND … ANGLE PULLS HIM BACK TOWARDS THE CENTER OF THE RING!!! Angle then drops down to the canvas and GRAPEVINES THE LEG!!!!

The crowd groans as Austin shakes his head in incredible pain, blood running down his face!! Angle yells intensely to tap but Austin refuses, using every last bit of strength in his body to crawl for the ropes, slamming his hands down onto the canvas for one final push!!! Ford Field cheers The Rattlesnake on as Austin reaches out and GRABS FOR THE ROPES … BUT HE CAN’T REACH THEM!!! Angle continues to wrench and wrench intensely on the hold as Stone Cold continuously shakes his head “NO” refusing to submit!! “Austin” chants ring out all around the arena as Stone Cold shows that trademark heart and determination, refusing to quit!!

With the blood continuing to pour out of his forehead of Austin, The Rattlesnake begins to lose his strength, shaking his head rather out of it … before finally … he just stops moving. The referee asks Austin for a response … but nothing. The ref then grabs his hand and lifts it up … it falls! ONE! He lifts it up once more … it falls again!! TWO!! Angle does not even think about letting go of the hold or loosening up on it as the ref grabs the hand of Austin and lifts it up once more … IT FALLS A THIRD TIME!!! The ref calls for the ring bell, as Stone Cold Steve Austin has passed out!!!
Winner: KURT ANGLE at 19:31.


Angle’s music hits and Kurt lets go of the hold and collapses to the canvas completely drained. Every single fan in Ford Field stands on their feet and applauds, many for the performance of both me, many for the incredible gut, grit and determination shown by Stone Cold Steve Austin - shades of WrestleMania 13. A couple of referees come down to check on Austin as Angle struggles back up to his feet, and spreads his arms out, letting out a roar to a strong pop of respect.


Jim Ross:
Kurt Angle has done it!! What a victory for The Wrestling Machine, winning this Icon vs. Icon match against one of the greatest superstars - if not THE greatest superstar to ever lace up a pair of black boots, “The Texas Rattlesnake” Stone Cold Steve Austin.

Jerry Lawler:
Nobody - NOBODY will be able to deny the greatness of Kurt Angle from now on. After all of the championships, after all of the huge victories throughout his career - Gold medals and all … but tonight, he gets his career defining win, defeating Stone Cold at WrestleMania.


Angle exits the ring and heads back up the entrance ramp, as his music plays. Kurt stops at the top of the ramp and raises his arms up once more, receiving more applause from the sold out crowd.
Inside the ring, the referees help Stone Cold Steve Austin back up to his feet and the crowd roars into a thunderous ovation as Austin looks around the arena, blood dripping down off of his face. A tremendous “AUSTIN” chant starts up as The Rattlesnake raises the double bird into the air, more than appreciative.
From the top of the ramp, Angle stares at Austin in the ring for a bit, looking a bit puzzled and then … sighs before heading back through the curtain. The ‘Glass Shatters’ as Austin calls for a couple of beers.


Jim Ross:
(Standing up on his feet, applauding)
How can you not respect that man? The toughest son of a bitch in the WWE. Came back with a bad back and a surgically repaired neck and gave it his all against the greatest wrestler in the sport today! Stone Cold Steve Austin wouldn’t give up and he wouldn’t submit, because it’s not in his nature to give up! That tough SOB passed out from the pain!

Jerry Lawler:
You’re absolutely right, J.R. I’m no fan of Stone Cold but his performance here tonight was beyond gutsy, it was superhuman and if this is his last WrestleMania - as many speculate it could be, you couldn’t get a better performance from The Texas Rattlesnake.


Austin is tossed his beers and opens them up, downing them to a nice pop, before setting them down in the middle of the ring. Stone Cold then calls for a couple more, and gets them, before hobbling through the ropes and outside of the ring, limping his way back up the ramp to another incredible ovation.


Jim Ross:
What a hell of a match up that was! But coming up next, something just as explosive, just as huge, but possibly, even MORE personal. The Game Triple H versus The People’s Champion The Rock. Two of the greatest of all-time. Lets see how this thing came together tonight at WrestleMania 23.



***



The Rock-Triple H Video Package:
- Quick recap of the long history between The Game and The Rock, from their early battles over the Intercontinental Championship, to their legendary feuds over the WWF Title.

- The Rock leaves for Hollywood in 2002, and Triple H establishes himself as the one and only top dog of the company, racking up World Title after World Title, while managing to defeat the top names in the industry.

Triple H:
There is only ONE - diamond - in - this - business. And, jack, you’re looking at him!

- H runs roughshod as the number one star in the world, carrying the company, from 2002 until 2006.

- At SummerSlam 2006, The Rock returns to the WWE!

- Immediately, the tension between The Rock and The Game is felt as the two share several awkward conversations and staredowns.

The Rock:
The Rock can remember being hit with a sledgehammer several times. The Rock can remember the brutal matches. The Rock can remember the year long feuds. SO, just don’t think you can throw on a DX t-shirt and think The Rock is gonna forgive and forget. The Rock … doesn’t … trust you.

Triple H:
Ya know what Rock? (scoffs) You don’t have to trust me. In fact, tonight, you can just stand on the apron and don’t get involved. Alright? (Rather matter-of-factly) Wouldn’t want you to get your nails dirty, Hollywood.

- At No Mercy, The Rock and Triple H have their most intense exchange yet before Rock’s first match back on PPV.

Triple H:
Rock, I am not in the mood to…

The Rock:
IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT YOU THINK!! Every single week, you end up in The Rock’s face. Look, do The Rock a favor. I know its hard but somehow, keep that beak you call a nose out of The Rock’s business.

- Rock has a match up with King Booker. Towards the end, Triple H comes down to the ring and drills Booker with a sledgehammer, allowing The Rock to pick up the victory.

- Though the tension is still quite evident, The Rock and The Game manage to avoid any MAJOR confrontations with one another for the next few months.

- The tension picks back up on the road to the Royal Rumble where both Triple H and The Rock will challenge for Batista’s World Heavyweight Title.

Triple H:
Look at the level of talent that’s out here. I mean, really, I look down and I see a b-list actor … someone who should never be the World Champion … and someone who is past his prime … and I’m just talking about The Rock.

- Hunter and Rock exchange finishing moves in back to back weeks before the Royal Rumble.

- At the Royal Rumble, Hunter looks like he has the victory when he Pedigrees The Rock, but Batista breaks it up, hit’s the Demon Bomb on Hunter and snatches a victory from the jaws of defeat.

- The following SmackDown, Stephanie McMahon names The Rock the number one contender to face Batista in a Steel Cage Match at No Way Out. Hunter complains, citing his Pedigree on The Rock moments earlier in the match. Stephanie retorts with a commentary on H’s recent behavior.

Stephanie McMahon:
You can’t beat The Rock, Hunter.

Triple H:
What in the hell are you talking about? I’ve beaten The Rock’s overrated ass more times than I count.

Stephanie McMahon:
That’s not what I mean and I think you know that. I see you out there, playing to the crowd, mocking The Rock, trying to get these people on your side. But no matter what you do, no matter how many jokes you make, no matter how many DX shirts you wear, you will never be as popular as The Rock and that’s what eats you up inside. Ever since The Rock came back, you’ve been trying to one up him and its not just happening. Its pretty pathetic to watch because deep down inside, you and I both know, its just not you. You don’t give a damn about these people but your ego won’t let you be outshone by The Rock in the ring, on the mic, anywhere … How long is it until you show your true colors, anyway?

Stephanie smirks a bit as Hunter stares at her, various emotions running through his face.

- Hunter remains off television until the No Way Out PPV after Rock’s match with Batista. After the match, Rock gets a standing ovation but that’s soon interrupted when Triple H makes his return after two months and destroys the People’s Champ, slamming him into the cage, hitting a Pedigree on the chair, a couple of nasty sledgehammer shots and then the final blow, a hammer shot, onto the chair, onto Rock’s head.

Triple H: Austin came and went, Goldberg came and went, so did Nash, so did Steiner, so did Lesnar, so did Hogan, SO DID THE ROCK!! The one consistent, the one dependable commodity that this company had to rely on was ME!!

You don’t have to like it but it is the truth - it is the ever-loving truth. I put asses in the seats, I put money in Vince’s wallet, sold out the arenas, elevated the ratings, bumped the damn buy-rates and made this company what it has evolved into to this very day!!!

Through all the utter crap and complete bullshit that I have to go through from the critics and each every one of you idiots, I remained loyal. Every damn place I go, I have to hear about politics, I have to hear about holding people back, but yet, all I do is come out here week after week, for years on end, and put on the best match that you idiots have ever seen and keep you people on the edge of your damn seats because … its … what … I … do. I’m willing to accept the outright nonsense from everyone in this place, because being a wrestler -- being the BEST is what I do.

Yeah, that’s right. Rock decided that he had enough of Hollywood. Just like that. Decided he had enough and came right back to the WWE and … (sarcastically) much to everyone’s surprise, the WWE accepted him with open arms. That I can understand, its simply business. I get it.

But what I don’t get is, how The Rock comes back and is just handed everything on a damn silver platter. Vince plasters his mug all over pay per view posters, all over promotional events. Rocky gets top billing. Rocky gets handed the main events. Rock gets handed shots at the World Heavyweight Championship - MY World Heavyweight Championship.

I’d blame Stephanie, I’d blame Vince, I’d blame management, but the fact is, the blame falls squarely on the shoulders of each and everyone of you idiots around the world and here tonight.
This guy takes his ball … goes to Hollywood … gives a big “screw you” to the WWE … basically tells all of you to shove it up your ass … and then he gets bored, comes back and you -- you accept him with open arms?

I BUST MY ASS, TEAR MY QUAD, PAY THE DAMN PRICE FOR YEARS ON END AND I GET PUSHED ASIDE FOR THIS JACKOFF!!! BULLSHIT!!!
I wasn’t gonna sit by and let this arrogant jack off come in and take what rightfully belongs to me - my title shots, my main events, my pay per view paychecks, MY DAMN RESPECT!!

So I did the right thing, I did what I had to do -- I took my sledgehammer, walked into that cage, beat his ass within an inch of his life and then proceeded to bust his damn head open! That was a message, that everybody in the back, everybody in the office, everybody sitting on their asses in this crowd and at home needs to understand. THE GAME IS BACK!!

- Hunter challenges The Rock to No Holds Barred Match for WrestleMania 23.

- The Rock returns at Saturday Night’s Main Event.

The Rock:
Triple H, you wanna bash The Rock upside the head with a steel chair, you wanna slam The Rock in the cage, you wanna hit The Rock with a sledgehammer, bashing The Rock’s head wide open, putting The Rock in the hospital, putting The Rock on the shelf, 17 STITCHES in The Rock’s skull, you wanna do all that to please your ego??

Well, The Rock says this, you want The Rock at WrestleMania 23, No Holds Barred match, the match to end it all, the match to end the greatest rivalry in all of sports-entertainment??

After all the Rock Bottoms, after all the Pedigrees, after all the People’s Elbows, all the sledgehammer shots, all the cheap shots, almost an entire DECADE of the two of us fighting at it tooth and nail, 19 World Championships between us and now you wanna end it?? Well The Rock, says … JUST BRING IT, BITCH!!!

- Quick clips of Triple H delivering The Pedigree to the biggest stars ever - Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold, Ric Flair, The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Kurt Angle, Kevin Nash and a slew of others.

Triple H:
Just like this damn company, YOU ARE NOTHING WITHOUT ME!! Without me carrying your ass you get nothing done! For years upon years, everybody talks about the Rock and Austin Era! Everybody talks about the so called second ‘golden age’ of this company, but the fact is, I CARRIED THIS PLACE!! I GOT THE JOB DONE!! But more importantly than all else, I STAYED LOYAL while you took your ass to Hollywood and Austin took his ball and went home!!

These idiots don’t wanna hear it, because it’s true. I took the WWE and put it on my back for years and years and you stroll your ass in here, years later and think you’re still the big man on campus! At No Way Out, I made it abundantly clear that I still call ALL the shots when I wiped the floor with your ass!!

And at WrestleMania 23, I will finish the job. On the biggest stage of all time, the grandest stage of them all, thousands upon thousands of fans, all there to see the climax of the biggest feud of all time, I will put the final nail in your coffin and cap off your overrated career!! Get your bags packed for Hollywood, Rock, because you get run out of this place in two weeks and there isn’t a damn things you can do about it. WHY!? Because I AM THE GAME!!

- Clips of The Rock hitting The Rock Bottom on many of the same competitors that The Game has defeated as well.

The Rock:
The Rock has had enough of you whining, enough your moaning and groaning. Bitching about crap that happened ten years ago!! The Rock says if you really want a piece of The Rock, if you really think you’re as bad as you say, then you’ll walk your monkey ass down that ramp, step your ass into this ring and get the ASS-WHOOPIN’ OF A LIFETIME!!!

And The Rock suggests that much like the past THREE WrestleManias, you will (starts gagging) CHOKE on the grand stage!! IF YA SMELLLLLLLLLLLL-LA-LA-LAAAAOW!!! WHAT THE ROCK … IS … COOKIN!!

- Shot of The Rock and Triple H face to face in 1998.

- Fade to a shot of Hunter and Rocky face to face in 2000.

- Clips of some of The Rock’s movies before some clips of Hunter’s “Reign of Terror” starting in 2002.

- And finally, The Rock and The Game face to face in 2007.



***



Backstage, Steve Romero stands by with The Rock.

Steve Romero:
Rock, we are just mere moments away from one of the big-

The Rock puts his hands in Romero’s face, receiving a huge pop. Thunderous “Rocky” chants start up. Rock waits for them to die down, before he takes the mic from Romero.

The Rock:
Finally … THE ROCK HAS COME BACK TO DETROIT!!!!

Thunderous cheap pop.

The Rock:
And finally The Rock has come back to WrestleMania. But unlike WrestleManias passed, The Rock isn’t here for World Championships, The Rock isn’t here for Dream Matches, The Rock isn’t here to settle any old rivalries. The Rock is here for one reason and one reason only and that’s quite simply … payback.

The Rock glares right at the camera.

The Rock:
Triple H … Hunter Hearst Helmsley … The Game … The King of Kings … The Cerebral Assassin … you big nosed FREAK!! You’ve done it all to The Rock for years on end! You’ve busted The Rock open, you’ve cracked The Rock in the ribs, you’ve broken The Rock’s arm, sledgehammer shots, Pedigrees through tables, Pedigrees on chairs, YOU’VE DONE IT ALL!!! But through it all, through a DECADE, through all the blood, through all the sweat, through all the tears, The Rock is STILL here, The Rock is STILL standing, proving you can’t stop - CAN’T STOP … THE ROCK!!!!

Incredible ovation from the fans, before yet another loud “Rocky” chant starts up. Rock waits for them to die down, before speaking once more.

The Rock:
So, Hunter, you best believe that tonight’s the night that The Rock pays you back in full. Tonight’s the night that The Rock gets revenge for every little bit of CRAP that you have ever done to The Rock! Quite simply, tonight’s the night, that The Rock will LAYETH THE SMACKETH DOWN ALLLLLLLLLLLLLLL OVER YOUR CANDY ASS!!!!

Another extraordinary pop for The Great One, as The Rock looks more intense than he ever has.

The Rock:
If ya smell … what The Rock … is cookin’.

Rock storms off camera to cheers as we cut back to ringside.



***



*KING OF KINGS INTRO*



***TIME TO PLAY THE GAME***

The ten-time World Champion Triple H steps out onto the stage as focused as can be, receiving a loud mixed reaction from the crowd here tonight, but that degenerates into heat. Hunter takes himself a look around the arena, before facing the ring once more, and continuing his trek angrily.


Tony Chimel:
The following contest … is the NO - HOLDS - BARRED MATCH scheduled for one fall!
(Crowd cheers) Introducing first … from Greenwich, Connecticut … weighing in at 265 pounds … THE KING OF KINGS … THE GAME … TRIPPLLEEEE H!!!


Hunter steps up onto the apron and spits his water into the air amongst an immense amount of flashbulbs before stepping into the ring. He walks to the corner and climbs the turnbuckle posing once more amongst a mixed reaction.


Joey Styles:
The Game has done it all in this sport. He’s beaten the best that this business has to offer, he’s a grand slam champion, meaning he’s held every major title at one point or another, he’s a TEN TIME World Champion, but for some reason, he feels as if he’s in the shadow of The Rock.

Tazz:
Can you blame him, Styles? I mean Hunter gives it all to this business, carrying us through the good times and the bad, and then The Rock strolls back in from Hollywood and Triple H is just shoved into the background. It’s just not right and Hunter has let that be known.

Joey Styles:
He most definitely let that be known at No Way Out in February where he perpetrated one of the most hideous acts of violence that I have ever seen in all my years. Payback could be a you know what here tonight.


***IF YA SMELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL***

Ford Field explodes into a tremendous ovation as “The Great One” The Rock steps out onto the stage, and continues on down to the ring, eyeing up one of his greatest and most feared rivals.


Tony Chimel:
And his opponent … from Miami, Florida … weighing in at 275 pounds … THE PEOPLE’S CHAMPION … THE ROOOCK!!!


Rock steps into the ring and climbs the turnbuckle, raising his right arm over his head to an incredible ovation.


Joey Styles:
Out of all the rivalries that have come to a climax here on the grandest stage of them all, THIS one has the most history, THIS one has the most hated rivals, and THIS one has two of the biggest stars that this business has ever seen.

Tazz:
The Rock and The Game have hated each other for almost TEN YEARS now! Almost a damn decade, Styles, and this tremendous rivalry reaches it’s conclusion right here tonight at WrestleMania 23!!

Joey Styles:
Oh my! Here we go!


Rock steps down from the apron and he is immediately drilled with a right hand from The Game!!


***Bell Rings***





No Holds Barred Match:
“The Great One” The Rock vs. “The Game” Triple H

The ref quickly calls for the ring bell as Triple H does not wait another second to get this thing kicked off! Hunter rocks The Rock with a right hand but Rock responds with a right of his own. Hunter with a right … then Rock … then Hunter … then Rock … then Hunter and somewhat surprisingly it’s the heel, Triple H, who gains the early advantage, backing The Rock up with hard right hands! H continues to wail away on him, until The Rock regains his wits about him, and begins to fire back with rights, backing Hunter all the way against the ropes. The Rock then spits on his hands, ready for a big shot but Hunter goes low, grabbing The Great One and hitting a knee to the gut!

Triple H then grabs The Rock by the hand, and shoots him into the ropes. The Rock comes back and Hunter takes him down with that big taped right hand! Trips then lifts The Rock back up to his feet and backs him up into the corner. The Game then hits a couple of big knees to the gut, before grabbing The Rock by the hand and going to shoot him into the corner, but Rock counters and sends Hunter in. Rocky charges but Hunter hits him with a stiff back elbow, knocking him backwards. Hunter then charges out of the corner, but The Rock takes him down with a strong clothesline, getting a huge pop!

The King of Kings staggers up to his feet and The Rock lights him up with a succession of a lightning quick right hands, and then he connects with the Spit Punch, sending The Game sailing over the top rope and out of the ring!! A “Rocky” chant starts up as The Rock paces around the ring, before deciding to exit as well. Rock leaves the ring, landing on the outside and waits on Hunter to arise back up to his feet. Trips staggers up and Rock charges, before taking Triple H down with another clothesline! Hunter begins to crawl away, and then gets back up to his feet slowly, lying on the fan barricade. Rock charges forward at The Game, but Triple H counters, taking The Rock up and over the barricade with a back body drop and INTO THE CROWD!!

The fans have been cleared out of the way by security and The King of Kings climbs over the barricade and into the crowd, lifting up The Rock. Hunter measures Rocky and drills him with a right hand, causing Rock to stumble backward, until he reaches the next level of fans. Hunter charges but The Rock sidesteps him and slams Triple H’s face into the panel, encasing the crowd! Rock then grabs Hunter’s head and slams it into it again … and again … and again … and again!! Triple H stumbles backwards, holding his face in pain, before The Rock charges forward and clotheslines The Game back over the barricade!!

Rock climbs back over and stomps Trips on the head as Hunter attempts to scurry away. Triple H gets back up to his feet and begins to walk away, around the ringside area and up the entrance ramp, with The People’s Champion in hot pursuit. The Rock spins him around and rocks him with a right hand, sending Hunter further up the entrance ramp and eventually, onto the stage. Trips turns around and throws a right hand, but Rock blocks it and knees Hunter in the gut, keeling him over. Rock then grabs him by the hair and brings him towards the set, slamming him into the glasslike side structure with a thud!! Rock then tries it again, but The Cerebral Assassin gets his hands up, stopping the momentum, before hitting The Rock with a stiff back elbow!

Triple H then slams The Rock into the panel, stunning The Rock! Hunter then follows up with a hard right hand, sending The Great One down the entrance ramp a bit. Triple H then charges forward but The People’s Champ quickly reacts, taking Hunter up and over with a BACK BODY DROP ON TO THE STEEL RAMP!!! The Game convulses around in an immense amount of pain as The Rock looks at the crowd, raising his eyebrow, acknowledging his playing possum. The crowd pops as The Great One turns around, lifts the self proclaimed King of Kings. Rock then drags him towards the ring and throws him under the bottom rope, back into the squared circle.

Rocky rolls back into the ring and lifts The Game back up to his feet. He then wraps his left arm over his head and Hunter’s arm over his own head. Rock then grabs a hold of Triple H’s trunks before lifting him up and planting The Cerebral Assassin with a vertical suplex, before floating over with a cover, hooking the far leg for leverage.

…1…
………………………….
… NO!
Hunter kicks out, and Rock looks a bit frustrated, but refocuses on the task at hand, getting back up to his feet and brings The Game back up with him. Rock hits another right hand on H before he grabs Hunter’s hand and backs him up against the ropes, looking for an Irish whip, but Triple H counters and sends The Rock into the ropes. The Great One comes back and Hunter throws a clothesline, which The Rock ducks and avoids, before hitting the ropes once more. H hits the ropes as well and he and The Rock meet in the middle of the ring, as Hunter leaps up and takes The Rock down with the Harley Race Flying Knee!!

Hunter rests a bit against the ropes, taking a breath, before going back to work, lifting The Rock up and rocking him with a right hand. Rocky stumbles backwards and into the corner as Triple H follows him in. Hunter then grabs the hand of The People’s Champion and delivers a hard Irish whip, sending The Rock into the corner with an incredible amount of authority, causing Hunter to lose his own footing as he comes off the ground! Rock hits the corner with authority and the force sends him down to the canvas immediately, clutching his back in pain as Hunter gets back up to his feet, smirking. The Game then drags The Rock back to the middle of the ring, pauses … then hits a stiff stomp to the back of Rock’s head, bringing back memories of No Way Out.

Hunter then grabs The Rock and drags him back up to his feet, in complete control of this match up at the moment. But The Rock begins to fight back, as the crowd comes alive! Rocky drills The Game with a right, then two more, then three more, before he grabs the hand of Triple H before shooting him into the ropes. However, Rocky gets set too early and The Game cracks his jaw with his patented face buster, sending The Rock down to the canvas! Hunter then covers The Rock, forcefully hooking the far leg.

…1…

…………………….
…2…
… NO!
The Rock kicks out and Hunter glares at the ref angrily before he grabs The Rock and lifts The People’s Champion back up to his feet. Trips grabs a hold of The Rock’s hand, before shooting him into the corner. Triple H then revs up before charging in, but Rock gets his right boot into his face, driving it into the face of The Game! Hunter stumbles out of the corner, holding his jaw, and The Great One begins to fight out of the corner, hitting Triple H with a hard right hand, and then a couple more, before shooting off the ropes. The Rock comes back and The Cerebral Assassin quickly catches him, spins him around and plants him with a POWERSLAM!!

The crowd boos as Hunter gets back up to his feet, letting out a smirk, as The Rock writhes in pain on the canvas. Triple H then backs up into the corner, and gives a DX crotch chop to a decent pop, before coming out, leaping up and driving his knee into the face of The Rock, rolling through. Hunter then grabs The Rock, lifts him back up to his feet, before tossing The Great One over the top rope and to the outside … but The Rock lands on the apron! Hunter turns away, thinking The Rock has landed on the outside. The Rock re-enters the ring as Triple H turns around. Rock charges and Hunter hits a boot to the gut, tucks The Rock’s head and hooks the arms - GOING FOR THE PEDIGREE!! But The Rock counters, lifting The Rock up and over the top rope, TO THE OUTSIDE!!!

The crowd pops as The Rock follows him to the outside. Hunter crawls towards the timekeeper and ring announcer, as The Rock somewhat gingerly follows him in. Rock grabs a hold of his tights … THEN THE GAME BLASTS HIM IN THE FACE WITH THE RING BELL!!! Rocky drops down to the canvas in pain as Hunter smirks, after catching The Rock “sleeping”, playing a bit of possum. The Rock lays out on the canvas, and Triple H soon gets on top of him, and begins to rain down right hands onto the forehead of The People’s Champion, as The Rock can’t cover himself up!!

Triple H then walks over to the Spanish announce table and begins to clear it of all the crap on top of it - the monitors, the cords, the top and all. Hunter then walks back over to The Rock and drags his somewhat limp body over towards the Spanish announce table, lifting him back up to his feet. Triple H then slams The Rock’s head against the table before tossing him up on to the table. The Game then climbs onto the table as well and stands over The Rock while staring around at the crowd, who boo the Cerebral Assassin furiously. Rock grabs a hold of Triple H, using his body to help him up, as Hunter simply smirks … before tucking The Rock’s head between his legs - GOING FOR THE PEDIGREE ONCE MORE - but The Rock drops down AND HITS A LOW BLOW!!!!

The crowd cheers as Hunter clutches … “himself” as The Rock gets back up to his feet and tosses Hunter’s arm over his right shoulder. The Rock then HIT’S THE ROCK BOTTOM THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE!!!!!!

A thunderous “Holy Shit” chant rings out as The Game and The Rock lie motionless among the debris after that sick spot. The referee checks on both men, and after a couple dozen seconds, The Rock begins to move, getting up onto his knees. A “Rocky” chant starts up as The Great One gets all the way back up to his feet, dragging the lifeless body of Triple H up with him as well. The Rock then tosses The Game under the bottom rope and back into the ring. The People’s Champion looks around, before walking over to Tony Chimel, kicking him out of his seat and picking up the steel chair! The Rock then slides into the ring and simply waits for The Game to get back up.

Triple H slowly begins to crawl for the ring ropes, using them to pull himself back up to a vertical base. Once he reaches his feet once more, The Rock charges, looking to take his head off with a SICK STEEL CHAIR SHOT - but The Game ducks the chair, avoiding any contact and waits for Rocky to turn around! Once he does, Hunter lifts him up and slams him to the canvas with a sick DOUBLE A SPINEBUSTER!!! The chair goes flying into the corner, as Hunter tops him, hooking the far leg.

…1…

…………………….
…2…

… NO!
The Rock gets his shoulder up, barely losing to Hunter’s desperation counter. Triple H walks over to the corner and grabs the steel chair, before he walks back towards the center of the ring and drops the chair in the middle of it. The Game then lifts The Rock back up to his feet, grabs his hand and attempts the Irish whip, but The Rock counters, sending Trips in. Hunter comes back and Rock grabs him - LOOKING FOR THE ROCK BOTTOM -- but Triple H counters, hitting The Great One with some hard back elbows!

Hunter then hit’s the ropes, and comes back, but The Rock reacts quickly, taking The Game up and over with a quick BELLY TO BELLY OVERHEAD THROW!! Hunter hits the canvas hard, and holds his back for a bit before both superstars get back up to their feet. Rocky baits The Cerebral Assassin in, getting back up to his feet, and keeling over as if that throw took all of his energy. Triple H bites, getting back up to his feet and charging at The Rock, but The Great One quickly counters, lifting Hunter up AND SLAMMING HIM TO THE CANVAS WITH A SAMOAN DROP ON THE STEEL CHAIR!!!! Triple H convulses in pain, as The Rock covers him, right on the chair.

…1…

………………………….
…2…

……………………
… NO!
The Game kicks out!! The Rock sighs before getting back up to his feet, grabs the hair of Triple H and pulls him back up to his feet as well. The Rock then looks for a DDT ON THE CHAIR - but The Game spins inside out, and clotheslines The Rock down hard with a clothesline!! Trips then reaches down and picks up the steel chair, to a chorus of boos. Hunter then turns The Rock over onto his stomach with his boot, a smirk on his face. Triple H then pulls back, AND SLAMS THE CHAIR INTO THE BACK OF THE ROCK … THEN AGAIN … AND AGAIN … AND AGAIN … AND AGAIN!!!

Boos and “Asshole” chants fill the arena as The King of Kings drops the chair down to the canvas, after wearing The Rock out with it. Hunter then smiles once more, clearly sick thoughts running through his head. Triple H rolls out of the ring and reaches under the ring apron, looking to possibly put this thing away. Eventually … he pulls out … The Great Equalizer - THE SLEDGEHAMMER!! The crowd responds with a mixed reaction - boos for the damage The Rock is about to receive, though many are happy to see The Game’s signature weapon come into play here tonight at WrestleMania 23.

Triple H climbs up onto the apron, before stepping in and staring at the motionless Rock. Hunter then pulls the sledgehammer up - READY TO SLAM IT ACROSS THE BACK OF THE ROCK’S HEAD … but stops. Styles and Tazz speculate that he may have a conscious after all … but a smirk soon comes over The Game’s face and that can only mean bad intentions. He grabs the STEEL CHAIR from off of the canvas and places it on top of The Rock’s head. Ford Field delivers tremendous heat and the ref begs him not to it, but The Game will here none of it. He lifts the sledgehammer up AND PREPARES TO SLAM IT ONTO THE STEEL CHAIR ON THE ROCK’S HEAD - SHADES OF NO WAY OUT!!! HE BRINGS IT DOWN WITH AUTHORITY AND IT MAKES A SICK THUD … ONTO THE CHAIR - AS THE ROCK MOVES OUT OF THE WAY!!!!

Hunter scowls as The Rock gets back up to his feet, grabbing the steel chair off of the canvas on his way back up. Triple H and The Rock square off; Hunter with a sledgehammer, Rocky with a steel chair. They both swing their weapons AT THE SAME TIME - and once the sledgehammer makes contact with the steel chair, the chair goes flying to the canvas and out of the ring!! Rock looks around comically, mouthing “oh shit” as Hunter smirks. Triple H takes a huge swing - LOOKING TO TAKE OFF THE ROCK’S HEAD - but The People’s Champion ducks, avoiding contact, before spinning Hunter around, kicking him in the gut and then planting him with a DDT!! The sledgehammer drops and The Rock covers The Game, hooking the far leg!

…1…

………………………….
…2…

……………………
… NO!
Triple H kicks out once more!! The Rock gets off of The Game and Hunter gingerly turns over onto his gut and attempts to crawl towards the steel chair. He reaches it and manages to get a hand on it, but The Rock steps on it!! The crowd pops as The Rock and Hunter share an intense staredown … before The Game goes low, hitting a LOW BLOW on The Rock!! The Great One clutches himself in pain, as Triple H quickly grabs the steel chair and gets back up to his feet even faster!! He measures The Rock up and then pulls the chair back before he DRILLS THE ROCK WITH THE STEEL CHAIR, LAYING HIM OUT!!!!!

The Rock lies on the canvas motionless while the crowd boos and Hunter tosses the chair down and out of the way. Hunter taunts the crowd gaining more heat, before the camera comes back to The Rock, who is now a BLOODY MESS, busted open. Trips then picks The Rock back up to his feet, before tucking him between his legs, hooking both of his arms. Triple H turns around a bit, clearly taunting the crowd, whom respond with heat, before The Game leaps up AND PLANTS THE ROCK WITH THE PEDIGREE!!!!!! H then points and makes the motion of “It’s Over” before turning The Rock over and covering him.

…1…

………………………….
…2…

……………………
… THRE - NO!
THE ROCK GETS HIS SHOULDER UP!!! Hunter gets back up to his feet and shoves the referee, telling him it was a three count. The ref “Mans Up” and shoves Triple H back to a huge ovation!! The ref then tells him it was a three count, yelling at someone twice his size. Hunter looks a bit shaken and shocked by the fact that someone is sticking up to him … before he pulls back and DROPS THE REFEREE with a right hand!! The crowd boos as Hunter starts talking crap, mouthing “don’t you ever disrespect me” before delivering a stomp to the unconscious referee. Trips then lifts the ref up and tosses him over the top rope and out of the ring, making sick thud as he hits the floor!

Triple H then walks back over to The Rock and mounts him before hitting him right in his blood splattered with a taped hard right hand … after hard right hand … after hard right hand … after hard right hand … hard right … hard right!!! Triple H gets up and holds his taped right hand up, which now is no longer white, but red with the blood of The People’s Champion. Triple H then grabs The Rock and brings him back up to his feet. He then clutches the hand of The Great One and shoots him into the corner with an Irish whip.

Hunter then walks over and picks up his sledgehammer off of the floor. Triple H walks in and raises the hammer over his head, looking for some serious damage but The Rock hits him with a boot to the gut! The crowd pops as The Rock comes out of the corner, clearly weary. Rock then rocks Hunter with a right hand, and then another and then two more!! The Rock then shoots off of the ropes - AND HUNTER DRILLS HIM WITH A SLEDGEHAMMER SHOT TO THE GUT!!!! The Rock immediately drops to his knees, clutching his stomach in an immense amount of pain. Trips then pulls back AND DRILLS THE GREAT ONE RIGHT IN HIS BLOODY FACE WITH THE DAMN HAMMER!!!

The Rock is damn near out cold, as Hunter drops the sledgehammer and covers The Rock, not even bothering to hook the leg - no need …

…………………………………

………………………….

……………………………….

The ref is out cold, and Hunter’s temper comes back to bite him in the ass, as he looks around, before seeing his handiwork laying out on the outside. Trips gets off of The Rock and back up to his feet, before he rolls out of the ring. Triple H then grabs the referee and lifts his body before he tosses it back into the ring. Hunter follows him in and shakes the ref, reviving him a bit, before he covers The Rock once more, hooking the leg.

……………………………..
…1…
…………………

………………………….

…2…

……………………

… THRE - NO!
THE ROCK KICKS OUT!!!! The audience explodes as Triple H goes crazy, knowing The Rock was helped by that incredibly slow count. Hunter gets back up to his feet and delivers a couple of stomps to the back of the ref, knocking him back out!!!

Triple H then refocuses on The Rock, grabbing The People’s Champion and lifting him back up to his feet. Hunter tucks him between his legs, and hooks the arms - once more looking for THE PEDIGREE … but The Rock counters, tripping Hunter up and onto his back! The Rock then spreads the legs of The Game before delivering a NASTY STOMP TO HIS NUTS!!!! The crowd groans and then applauds while The Rock grabs a hold of his legs and catapults Hunter into the corner!!! Triple H staggers around while The Rock gets back up to his feet. Hunter turns to face The Rock and The Great One kicks him in the gut, before plating The Game with a DDT!!!

Both men lay out on the canvas a bit … before THE ROCK KIPS BACK UP TO HIS FEET!!! Ford Field erupts as The Rock stalks The Game, blood pouring down his face, though the determination in his eyes is still very much clear. Rocky waits on Triple H who staggers up to his feet, on spaghetti legs, before turning around and The Rock grabs him, LOOKING FOR THE ROCK BOTTOM - but Hunter fights out of it, hitting sharp back elbows and breaking the grip of The Great One. Trips then shoots off of the ropes, but runs right into a SPINE ON THE PINE!!! The audience explodes as The Rock drops The Game with his custom spine buster before slowly walking around to the head of The Cerebral Assassin.

Rock kicks the arm of The Game, before taking off his right elbow pad and tossing it into the crowd!! Rock then shoots off of the ropes, comes back, leaps over The Game’s body … but TRIPS GETS BACK UP TO HIS FEET as The Rock hit’s the ropes again!! Rock comes back and Hunter throws a clothesline - but The Rock ducks it, AND THEN HITS THE ROCK BOTTOM!!!!! The Rock thinks about going for the cover, but instead turns his head to the right … and the crowd goes wild as The Rock glares at the SLEDGEHAMMER!! The Rock walks over and picks it up, before glaring at the fallen Helmsley.

The Rock holds the sledgehammer and eyes it up, almost in a trance. Rocky’s face soon shows more and more frustration as Styles and Tazz point out the damage that hammer has managed to do to The Rock for the better part of a decade - especially at No Way Out about a month and a half ago. Rock wipes the blood out of his face and then stalks The Game as the crowd begins a “Rocky” chant, cheering The People’s Champ on. Triple H grabs a hold of the ropes and uses them to pull himself up. The Game then turns around AND THE ROCK BLASTS HIM IN THE FACE WITH THE SLEDGEHAMMER!!!!!!!!

The Rock then tosses the hammer out of the ring, and slaps his chest with intensity, working this crowd up into a frenzy!! The camera goes back to The Game and shows that his face has been BUSTED OPEN, as Hunter lies motionless on the canvas. Rock then walks over and grabs the arms of Hunter, and drags him to the center of the ring, before straightening him up. Rock grabs a hold of the steel chair … and places it on top of The Game’s bloody face!! Rock then walks over around to the head of The Cerebral Assassin, before he kicks his arm and once more the audience rises up to its feet. Rocky then slides off his left elbow pad, before throwing it into the crowd! Rock runs, hits the ropes, leaps over The Game, hits the ropes once more, comes back AND HITS THE PEOPLE’S ELBOW ONTO THE CHAIR ONTO THE FACE OF THE GAME!!!!!!!!!!!

Rock gets a tremendous ovation as he doesn’t even pin The Game, simply taking a moment to take this all in, moving the chair and staring down at the bloody face of his longtime heated rival. Rock then covers him, hooking the far leg, as the ref crawls over to make the cover.

…………………..
…1…

………………………….

…2…

……………………

!!!!!!!THREE!!!!!!!
Winner: THE ROCK at 21:04.


Ford Field erupts into cheers as The Rock gets back up to his feet, and simply stares down at the sprawled out Triple H, blood still oozing from the faces of both iconic superstars.


Joey Styles:
After all the blood, the brutality, the weapons, one of the most physically intense and grueling matches that we have ever seen, it is THE ROCK who pulls out the victory here tonight, FINALLY vanquishing his most hated rival.

Tazz:
Triple H did it all to try and defeat The Rock here tonight. Busted him up, busted him open with two of the sickest sledgehammer shots I’ve ever seen, but The People’s Champion reigns supreme here tonight at WrestleMania 23.


The Rock looks into the air, letting this victory wash over him, before he walks over to the corner, and climbs the turnbuckle, and raises his arm into the air, once more receiving an incredible pop from the sold out crowd. Rock then climbs down and exit’s the ring, heading back up the ramp.


Joey Styles:
Much like Stone Cold Steve Austin, rumors have been flying rampant about whether or not this is The Rock’s final WrestleMania appearance, and if it was, I can’t think of a better way to go out, than a victory over the ten time World Champion Triple H here tonight.


Rock walks through the curtain, and his music is cut. The camera focuses in on The Game, blood on his face, anger running through his face, unsuccessful in his quest to destroy The Rock once and for all.



***



Inside their locker room, the RKO Army (sans Chris Masters) all sit on chairs and put ice packs up their bodies, except Melina obviously and the WWE Champion, “The Legend Killer” Randy Orton, whom hasn’t competed yet. Orton shakes his head in disgust as he stares at his team.

Randy Orton:
The biggest night of my life, the biggest night in the history of the WWE, my crowning night, and you guys go out there and blow your matches. Doane, you completely flop in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match, and Johnny, you blow the eight man tag.

Doane and Nitro look up in disgust.

Johnny Nitro:
I’m no expert in math, but I wasn’t the only person out there. We were supposed to be a team out there. Me and Joey-

Randy Orton:
Excuses, excuses, excuses. That’s all you ever have for me, John.

Nitro’s jaw clenches with anger, as Orton turns away from him in repulsion, turning towards Doane.

Randy Orton:
(Scoffs) I guess I can expect the same from you, right, Kenny?

Ken Doane:
(Under his breath)
Go to hell.

Orton turns around, as the rest of the group look at Doane in shock.

Randy Orton:
What did you just say to me?

Doane stands up, getting in Orton’s face, holding his leg a bit in pain.

Ken Doane:
I said … go to hell.

Orton squints his eyes, face to face with Doane, tension mounting … before Orton begins chuckling.

Randy Orton:
You know what? I’ve got a WWE Title to retain, I’ve got a couple of superstars to embarrass, and I’ve got a WrestleMania night to steal. Melina, let’s get on out of here.

Orton grabs the hand of Melina and the two head towards the door as Doane sits back in his seat.

Johnny Nitro:
Wouldn’t be afraid of getting your ass kicked twice tonight, would ya?

OH!!; Orton stops, but doesn’t turn around, as Nitro stands up from his seat, completely serious - ready to go.

Melina:
Randy, let’s just get out of here.

Orton holds his head down, and without turning around, to face Nitro or Doane, leaves the room with Melina. Doane and Nitro stew in anger, while Mercury shakes his head.

Back to ringside.



***



***PLAYA’S CLUB***

Raw General Manager Jonathan Coachman, The Big Show, Paul Heyman, Umaga, and Armando Alejandro Estrada all enter the arena to a large amount of heat from the sold out crowd.


Howard Finkel:
The following tag team contest is the MONSTER’S COLLIDE MATCH and it is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first … representing Monday Night Raw … at a combined weight of … 827 POUNDS … accompanied to the ring by Armando Alejandro Estrada, Paul Heyman, and RAW General Manager Jonathan Coachman … THE BIG SHOW … AND UMAGA!!!


The fearsome five-some step into the ring; Coach and company look as confident as always, waiting for SmackDown!.


Jim Ross:
You did hear that correctly, ladies and gentlemen. Combined, The Big Show and Umaga weight 827 pounds. That’s scary.

Jerry Lawler:
Coach looks awfully confident. I’d hate to see all the egg on his face if he was to lose to Stephanie McMahon and SmackDown! tonight.


*PYRO EXPLOSION*



***SLOW CHEMICAL***

The crowd gives a strong ovation as “The Big Red Machine” Kane (with tape on his ribs), “The Silverback” Mark Henry and Stephanie McMahon make their way down to the ring, also as a cohesive unit.


Howard Finkel:
And their opponents … at a combined weight of 730 POUNDS … accompanied to the ring by SmackDown! General Manager Stephanie McMahon … THE WORLD’S STRONGEST MAN MARK HENNNRRRYYYY … AND KAAAAANE!!!



Kane and Henry step into the ring as Coachman, Estrada and Heyman step out. The four monsters come face to face as Kane lifts his hands high into the air, before setting off his tremendous pyro!!


Joey Styles:
OH MY GAWD!! To steal a phrase from Good Ol’ J.R, through hellfire and brimstone, Kane and the World’s Strongest Man Mark Henry look more than ready for the task at hand tonight.

Tazz:
Here we go. Four monsters, one match, brand pride on the line, Raw versus SmackDown!, this one should be a rocket buster!


***Bell Rings***





Monster’s Collide Match:
Big Show & Umaga
w/Jonathan Coachman, Armando Estrada & Paul Heyman
vs. “The Big Red Machine” Kane & Mark Henry w/Stephanie McMahon

The Big Show and Mark Henry leave the ring, leaving Kane and the “Samoan Bulldozer” Umaga in the center of the squared circle, eyeing up one another. Umaga and Kane begin to circle one another as the dueling general managers look on intently. Umaga and Kane then move closer and the two monsters lock horns in a collar and elbow tie up! They struggle for position for a bit but soon it’s the Big Red Machine who gains the advantage, shoving the Samoan Bulldozer into the corner with force!

Umaga lets out a yell, clearly angered by being overpowered by the larger Kane and Umaga once more moves toward the center of the ring, and locks up with the seven footer once more! The two struggle for position again … and again Kane gains the advantage, shoving Mags into the corner!!

From ringside, Raw GM, Jonathan Coachman, demands that Umaga tag in The Big Show, which gets an angry look from Umaga, causing Coach to gulp. Armando Estrada intervenes, instructing Umaga to do it and he does as told, tagging in the 500 pounder.

The crowd begins to buzz as the two seven foot superstars look at each other before engaging in a collar and elbow tie up!! The struggle doesn’t last long as Show shows his incredible strength and size advantage - NOT shoving Kane into the corner, instead, sending him all the way to the canvas!!

Kane gets back up to his feet with a smirk … and “The Silverback” Mark Henry tags himself into the match, slapping Kane on the back. Henry and Kane share a stare down before the World’s Strongest Man steps into the ring and turns his attention away from his own tag team partner and to the giant of a man standing in front of him.

Henry and Show don’t waste any time and immediately lock up in the middle of the ring! After a good 15 seconds of grappling with one another, the two monsters disengage … stalemate. Show looks quite a bit shocked at the strength of Henry, considering Big Show has a considerable weight and height advantage. Show soon refocuses and the two superstars once again lock up and the same pattern persists - a struggle but eventually -- a stalemate.

Big Show decides to switch it up and tells Henry to hit the ropes. The Silverback smirks, always enjoying a challenge and shoots off the ring ropes, comes back and collides with Big Show, wobbling the big man!! Show staggers a bit but straightens up, quickly covering up his look of shock with a roar, before he tells the World’s Strongest Man to do it again! Henry once more comes off the ropes and smashes together with Big Show, causing the big man to wobble even more this time, causing the crowd to begin buzzing with anticipation!

Stephanie yells at Henry to do it again as Show attempts to shake off the blow. The Silverback bounces off the ropes once more, looking for another collision -- but Show hits him with a side kick to the face, taking him down!! The crowd begins to boo (getting behind Henry, ftw) as Coachman jumps up and down like a six year old. Show grabs Henry, lifting him back up to his feet and backing the large man into the corner.

The Big Show then lays into him with a couple of strong knees to the gut, attempting to wear Henry down here in the early going. Show then looks at the crowd, telling them to “SSHHH” and the audience does actually die down a bit before Show delivers a scintillating chop right across the chest of The Silverback!! The crowd WOOOS in response and they soon do it once more as Show rears back and delivers another stinging overhand chop to the chest of Henry!!

Show then grabs the hand of Henry and shoots the big man into the corner!! Big Show then gives himself a head of steam before charging ahead, and hits an AVALANCE SPLASH!! Henry slumps in the corner as Show begins to dominate here. He once again grabs the hand of Henry, looking for a repeat, and shoots him into the opposite corner. Show gets himself some momentum before charging in - but Henry charges out of the corner at the same time, AND TAKES SHOW DOWN WITH A CLOTHESLINE!!!

The crowd actually cheers as The World’s Strongest Man has finally taken The Big Show down! Henry lifts the Raw monster back up to his feet and backs him into his own corner, before driving his shoulder into Show’s gut and raising his hand up, allowing Kane to be tagged back in! Kane steps back into the ring and delivers a strong shot to the face of Show and then Henry hit’s a boot … punch … boot … punch … boot and the crowd comes alive as the two SmackDown! monsters team up on Big Show!

Umaga attempts to intervene but the referee moves over towards him and stops him from entering. Seeing the ref distracted, Kane and Henry move Show towards the middle of the ropes before shooting him off and hitting a double clothesline, taking him down!! Umaga goes back onto the apron and Henry leaves the ring. Kane grabs Show and lifts him back up to his feet and hits him with a strong right hand! And then another; backing him into a corner!!

The Big Red Machine then climbs up onto the middle ropes and begins to hit The Big Show with hard right shots to the face as the crowd chants along with the punches!

ONE! … TWO! … THREE! … FOUR! … FIVE! … SIX! … SEVEN! … EIGHT! … NINE! … TEN!

Kane hops down as the crowd cheers and The Big Show stumbles out of the corner. Stephanie smirks while Coachman looks on nervously, SmackDown! clearly in the driver’s seat at the moment. Kane then shoots off of the ropes and hits Show with a HUGE BOOT to the side of the face … taking the giant down to a knee! Kane then bounces off of the ropes once more - possibly looking for another boot - but Show quickly arise, catches Kane and drops him with a SIDEWALK SLAM!! Show then hooks the near leg for the first cover of the match up!!

…1...
……………..

…2...
… NO!
Kane kicks out but Show stays on the attack, lifting The Big Red Machine back up to his feet. Show then grabs Kane under his arms before gaining some steam and TOSSING Kane all the way across the ring!! The crowd, Steph and Coachman all react in shock, impressed with the incredible strength shown by The Big Show, easily tossing the 300 pound Kane.

Show then grabs Kane and brings him back up to his feet before backing him into the Raw corner. The Big Show then tags in Umaga and The Samoan Bulldozer enters the ring! Umaga goes wild on The Big Red Machine in the corner, unloading on the monster with a shot from every angle - right hands, lefts hands, sharp kicks to the gut and then caps it off with a stinging head butt!!

Umaga then delivers a biting snap mare, sitting Kane up, before delivering a strong kick to the monster’s back! Umaga then shoots off of the ropes before coming back, leaping into the air and hitting a jumping head butt onto the shoulder of Kane! Kane flinches in pain as Umaga applies the lateral press!!

…1...
…………………..…..

…2...
… NO!
The Big Red Machine kicks out but that does not deter Umaga, who lifts Kane back up to his feet. Kane attempts to fight back, hitting Umaga with right hands, backing the Samoan Bulldozer up. Kane then grabs him by the hand and attempts to shoot him into the ropes, but Umaga counters the Irish whip and sends Kane in. Umaga lowers his head - but too early and Kane makes him pay, kicking Umaga in the head!!

Umaga snaps his head upwards and lets out a yell -- BUT KANE GRABS HIM AROUND THE THROAT, LOOKING FOR THE CHOKESLAM -- BUT UMAGA FIGHTS OUT OF IT, hitting strong back elbows to the side of his skull!! Kane staggers, clearly hurt. Umaga charges but Kane quickly recovers and throws a clothesline, which Umaga ducks! Kane turns around and Umaga lifts him up, tosses him on his shoulders AND HITS THE SAMOAN DROP!! Umaga quickly turns over, going for the cover!!

……………………………….
…1…
…………………

…2…
……………
NO!!
Kane kicks out once more! Umaga gets back up to his feet and drags the limp body of Kane to the Raw corner and tags The Big Show back in. Show steps over the top rope and back into the ring, before lifting The Big Red Machine back up to a vertical base. Show then takes his incredible large arms and wraps them around the torso of Kane, applying the BEAR HUG!!

Show attempts to squeeze the life out of Kane, whom slowly begins to fade while Stephanie looks on in distress from ringside. Kane struggles in hopes of getting free but Show begins to swing Kane around, almost like a rag doll, continuing to wear the seven footer down! Forty five seconds into the hold, Kane is almost completely out of it, not moving a muscle.

The ref grabs the arm of Kane and lifts it up … it falls. ONE! He grabs it once more, before letting it drop … it falls once more. TWO! Coach begins to salivate with anticipation as the ref lifts Kane’s arm up for the third and final time … … … IT STAYS UP!! And the crowd begins to come alive as Kane shows signs of life! Kane hits Show with a right … and another right … and another right … one more … two more and the grip of the giant is finally broken!

Kane shoots off of the ropes and when he comes back, Show throws a clothesline, which he avoids and bounces off the ropes once more, before taking Show down with a clothesline!! He gets back up and Kane takes him down again! Umaga gets into the ring and runs at Kane but the Big Red Machine is ready for him, quickly reacting and taking Mags up and over with a strong back body drop! Umaga stumbles back up to his feet, backing against the ropes and Kane charges, clothes lining him over the top rope and to the floor below!!

The crowd continues to cheer Kane on as the Big Red Machine steps out onto the apron and climbs up to the top turnbuckle! Big Show slowly arises to his feet and Kane leaps off the top turnbuckle AND TAKES SHOW DOWN WITH A FLYING CLOTHESLINE!!! Kane pops back up to his feet and takes a look around the audience as the crowd goes wild! Sensing the match up slipping away, Coachman jumps onto the apron but … Kane ROCKS COACH with a right hand, knocking him off of the apron and to the floor to a huge ovation!

The Big Red Machine has gotten this crowd into a frenzy and now adjusts his glove before raising his hand into the air - READY TO CHOKESLAM THE 500 POUND BIG SHOW!! Show gets back up to his feet and turns around … and KANE GRABS HIM AROUND THE THROAT … BUT KANE IS SOON DROPPED FROM BEHIND …

BY MARK HENRY!!!!! HENRY TURNS ON KANE AND SMACKDOWN!!!!!!

The crowd responds with shock as does Stephanie grabbing her own hair as Henry smirks!! The ref asks what the hell is going on as Henry swings away on his own tag team partner before stomping away on him!! Henry lifts Kane up and holds him while Umaga rolls back into the ring. The ref demands Umaga get out … but not before HE HITS KANE WITH THE SAMOAN SPIKE!!!

Show doesn’t let the unconscious Kane fall to the ground, instead turns him around and wraps his massive hand around his throat!! Holding his jaw in pain on the outside, Coach smiles wildly as Show lifts Kane up AND PLANTS HIM WITH THE CHOKESLAM!!! Show then puts his boot on the chest of Kane before demanding that the ref count the pin fall.

…………………………..
…1…

………………
…2…

…………
THREE!!!
Winners: The Big Show and Umaga at 10:20.


The crowd boos wildly as The Big Show smiles as does every Raw member around ringside, Steph looks on in distress and Estrada, Heyman & Coachman climb into the ring. Coach tells Show, Umaga & Henry to finish him off and Henry & Big Show lift the lifeless body of Kane back up to his feet.

Show and Henry hold Kane and Umaga begins to tee off on him, hitting right hand, after right hand, after right hand, after right hand!


Joey Styles:
I don’t understand what the hell is going on! Why the hell is Mark Henry helping out guys from Monday Night Raw!? Why did he turn on Kane!?

Jerry Lawler:
My guess is he wanted to bet on a winning team here tonight!


Suddenly, several SmackDown! superstars sprint down the entrance ramp, including Chris Sabin, Hardcore Holly, The Miz, Super Crazy, Psichosis, Jamie Noble, Kid Kash, among many others.

The Big Show, Umaga, and SmackDown’s Henry take on all comers, rocking each SmackDown! star with hard rights as they slide into the ring! These three monsters destroy everybody they can get their hands onto, and with Kane already down and out, nobody can manage to stop them.

Jerry Lawler:
Ha-ha, what are these SmackDown idiots think they’re doing!? The Big Show can’t be stopped! Umaga can’t be stopped! And even SmackDown’s Silverback can’t be stopped! It’s great, ha-ha!

Tazz:
Can we get a little help out here!?! Jesus!







***ERRRRRRRRRK … CRASH***

Every monster in the ring turns their attention to the entrance stage while Ford Field completely explodes into a thunderous ovation as the “Hardcore Legend” MICK FOLEY steps out onto the WrestleMania 23 stage … CARRYING A BARBED WIRE BASEBALL BAT!!!


Jim Ross:
IT’S MICK FOLEY!!! MICK FOLEY IS BACK AFTER BEING COMPLETELY DESTROYED BY THE BIG SHOW AND UMAGA, AND HE WANTS SOME PAYBACK HERE TONIGHT!!

Joey Styles:
… Oh my Gawd!


Foley charges down the entrance ramp and slides into the ring as Estrada, Heyman and Coach bail!! Big Show charges in first and Foley drills him with the bat in the gut!! And then Mick hits him in the back with another devastating bat shot, taking the 500 pounder down!!

Show rolls out of the ring in pain as Umaga charges at Foley, and the Samoan Bulldozer gets the BARBED WIRE SHOT RIGHT ACROSS THE FACE!! A thunderous “FOLEY” chant starts up as Umaga rolls around on the canvas in anguish!!

Foley turns around and Henry hit’s a boot to the gut, causing Foley to drop the bat! Henry then takes a huge swing at Foley, but Mick ducks it, kicks Henry in the gut and then drops him with a DOUBLE ARM DDT!!!

Foley then picks the barb wired bat back up as the fallen monsters roll out of the ring. Foley holds Barbie up to an incredible ovation as Umaga, Coach and company head back up the entrance ramp, busted up and beaten, while Ford Field continues to go wild with “FOLEY” chants.


Jerry Lawler:
That damned Mick Foley has tarnished this Monsters Collide win for Monday night Raw here tonight! What a way to ruin WrestleMania, Foley!

Jim Ross:
Mrs. Foley’s baby boy cleaning house here tonight on the grandest stage of them all - getting a little bit of payback on Umaga and The Big Show!!



***



A video package plays, hyping the newest superstar coming to Friday Night SmackDown, the Straight Edge Superstar, CM Punk - soon.


Cut to another video package.


WrestleMania 24 comes to the Citrus Bowl in Miami, Florida.



***



Three Way Dance Video Package:
Jim Ross:
Three of the greatest superstars in the sport, who will leave with the WWE Title??

- Shawn Michaels captures his fifth World Title at SummerSlam 2006, defeating his DX teammate Triple H and Edge for the WWE Championship.

Jim Ross:
Shawn Michaels!! HBK has done it! HBK is once again the WWE Champion! Once more the Boyhood Dream has come true!!

- Edge regains the WWE Title at Bad Blood in October, defeating Michaels in a Ladder Match.

Jim Ross:
You don’t have to like him but after that performance there’s no doubt that Edge should be respected because he has once again proven that he deserves to wear the WWE Championship.

- Edge impresses the fans, defeating The Undertaker clean twice in a row, getting the crowd on his side. Edge’s Rated R Army becomes somewhat threatened by Edge’s newfound popularity.

Randy Orton:
You guys have got to ask yourselves, who’s Edge looking out for, him … or you??

- At New Year’s Revolution, Edge and Randy Orton are the last two members of a Six Man Elimination Match. The Rated R Army come down and distract Edge, allowing Orton to hit the RKO and pick up the victory and become the NEW WWE Champion!

Jim Ross:
Not this way! Not this way damn it! We’ve got ourselves a new WWE Champion and it’s that damned Randy Orton!

- After the match, Lita is forced to watch as Edge’s group goes to town on their former leader, beating and bloodying him at the behest of Orton.

Jim Ross:
Enough is enough! Edge is bloody mess.

- With Edge on the shelf, Michaels steps up as the #1 contender for Orton’s title at the Royal Rumble.

Shawn Michaels:
Make no mistake about it. At the Royal Rumble, the WWE Championship comes back around my waist!

- At the RR, Orton steals a win from Michaels, rolling him up with a school boy, hooking the ropes and tights for the victory.

Jim Ross:
Randy Orton once again STEALS the WWE Championship just like he did at New Years Revolution against Edge. He’s a no good, lousy son of a b-

- Later in the night at the RR, Edge returns, taking out Chris Masters and using his number 30 entry into the Royal Rumble!

Jim Ross:
Edge is back and the RKO Army -- Edge’s Rated R Army is in for it now!! Edge is in the Rumble!! And he’s doing exactly what Lita said he would, making Randy Orton’s Royal Rumble night … HELL!!!

- Eventually though, Edge is eliminated due to a distraction from Randy Orton!

Jim Ross:
How many more times can Randy Orton possibly stick it to The Rated R Superstar??

- Edge and Michaels form a partnership of convenience, teaming up to take on Orton and his RKO Army on several occasions, while competing in a Road to WrestleMania #1 Contender’s Tournament.

Jerry Lawler:
That damn Shawn Michaels evening up the odds here!

- Edge and Michaels meet in the finals of the tournament but their match is interrupted by Orton, who takes both men out and even goes so far as to RKO Lita!

Jim Ross:
That no good son of a bitch Randy Orton has just screwed up one hell of a match and effectively screwed these two athletes out of a WrestleMania title match!!

- A Three Way Dance between the three men is set for WrestleMania 23.

Jonathan Coachman:
Much like a triple threat, the match will start out with the three of you in the ring, but once the first fall occurs, the remaining two competitors will continue the match. So, Randy, what I’m saying is, if you want to retain that WWE Championship at WrestleMania, you’ll have to outlast Shawn Michaels AND Edge!!

- In retaliation for Orton’s attack on Lita, Edge spears RKO Army member, Melina, the following week on Raw!

Jerry Lawler:
How can you possibly condone Edge’s actions, J.R.?? This guy is out of control!

- Michaels and Edge team up to fend off Orton and the RKO Army but afterwards, HBK super kicks Edge!

Jim Ross:
Shawn Michaels just leveled Edge with that Superkick!! Turned Edge’s lights off! What the hell was that about?!

Jerry Lawler:
Don’t act shocked, J.R. It’s Shawn Michaels, this is far from the first time we’ve seen this from him, ha-ha, you can NEVER trust HBK!

- The Raw before WrestleMania, Edge and Michaels do battle but eventually, Orton lays out Edge with the RKO … and Michaels lays out Orton with Sweet Chin Music.

Jim Ross:
HBK once more coming out on top of the heap!

- Quick shots of all three superstars.

Jim Ross:
It gets no bigger than the Monday Night Raw Main Event - the WWE Championship Match. Three Way Dance, “The Legend Killer” Randy Orton defends the WWE Title against “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels and “The Rated R Superstar” Edge with two falls to a finish!

- Shot of all three superstars hitting their finishing maneuver.

Jerry Lawler:
The last man standing after two eliminations leave with the gold, and things have gotten mighty personal with these three superstars. What will be the focus come WrestleMania night? The WWE Championship?

- Shot of Orton with the WWE Title.

Jerry Lawler:
Hogging the spotlight?

- Michaels spinning in the ring before flexing.

Jerry Lawler:
Or revenge?

- Shot of Edge boiling with anger.

“(Echoing) Only time will tell.”



***



“OH!! OH!! SHAWN!!!!”



***SEXY BOY***

The crowd erupts into an incredibly loud mixed reaction as the ORIGINAL Sexy Boy tune of Shawn Michaels plays. Soon enough, The Heartbreak Kid walks out onto the WrestleMania stage once more, this time … with the SENSATIONAL SHERRI by his side!! The Showstopper arrogantly saunters down the entrance ramp, dressed in his trademark red gaudy attire, and throwback gloves, with his usual smirk plastered across his face.


Jim Ross:
Nobody - NOBODY - outperforms Shawn Michaels on the big stage and there is no bigger stage, no more prolific an environment than WrestleMania. HBK calls himself Mr. WrestleMania and by gawd you’d be hard pressed to find any WWE Superstar more worthy of that moniker.

Jerry Lawler:
What a shocker it is to see the Sensational Sherri here! But yeah, you’re right, J.R. Shawn Michaels feeds - he THRIVES on the big stages. His ego will not allow him to be outperformed on any big stage, ESPECIALLY WrestleMania, so Edge and Randy Orton can expect the very best from The Showstopper, Shawn Michaels here tonight!

Jim Ross:
HBK has been at the big dance before. His most famous title victory at WrestleMania, taking place at WrestleMania 12 some ten years ago when he defeated the iconic Bret Hart in an incredible Iron-Man match up. Can Michaels recreate that glory and can he do it against two of the young studs in the industry today, Edge and Randy Orton?


Michaels and Sherri step into the ring and HBK does his trademark twirl, before he pushes Sherri to the canvas, lying her across the ground as Michaels does his trademark pose, flexing as the pyro goes off in the background!! The Heartbreak Kid then continues to do a little strut, seemingly VERY comfortable with the incredibly intense environment here tonight.


“YOU THINK YOU KNOW ME”



***METALINGUS***

Smoke begins to fill the stage and suddenly pyro begins to explode as “The Rated R Superstar” Edge makes his way out onto the stage, with his girlfriend Lita by his side. The crowd delivers a great pop for the former WWE Champion as he takes a look around the arena. Dawned in his leather coat and shades, Edge storms down the entrance ramp, eyeing up Shawn Michaels.


Jim Ross:
Edge has definitely got a choice to make tonight. Does he want the WWE Championship or does he want revenge? Because when you’re dealing with two athletes the caliber of Michaels and Orton, there’s no way he’ll be able to take the title if he’s not completely focused on that. This man had everything stripped from him in January at New Years Revolution when Randy Orton stole his WWE Championship, stole his Rated R Army and took his blood but he’ll have to choose between Orton’s blood and the title tonight.

Jerry Lawler:
God, Lita is looking hot tonight …
(back on topic) but of course, there’s no guarantees in this business. Even if Edge tries his damnedest, he still has to beat two of the best wrestlers on the planet in order to leave with the WWE Championship. I don’t think he can do it.


Edge steps into the ring and climbs the turnbuckle, glaring into the crowd, whom continue to cheer The Rated R Superstar on. Lita helps Edge off with his jacket as he, Michaels and the rest of the world waits for the champion.



“HEY!!!”



***BURN IN MY LIGHT***

The crowd fills the building with some of the loudest boos of the night as the WWE Champion, the “Legend Killer” Randy Orton makes his way onto the stage, accompanied by Melina, with the title belt around his waist. Orton’s arrogant swagger is in full effect as he performs his “destiny” pose and the golden pyro falls behind him, causing an almost majestic backdrop for the WWE Champion.


Jim Ross:
There he is. The current WWE Champion, Randy Orton. He’s had several run ins with each of these men over the past few weeks and has managed to screw both of these men out of the WWE Title. First, it was Edge at New Years Revolution, then he cheated to beat Michaels at the Royal Rumble, then LATER that same night, he screwed Edge out of the Royal Rumble match, and of course, he capped that off by trying to interrupt their Road To WrestleMania Tournament. That’s how we’re here, Three Way Dance for the title.

Jerry Lawler:
In recent weeks, Orton has seemed to be more focused on his RKO Army and keeping the rest of the RKO Army in line, rather than retaining his WWE Championship here tonight.


Orton climbs the steel steps and enters the ring, eyeing up Orton and Michaels before raising his arms in the “destiny” pose once more and this time, the pyro falls from the ceiling as Orton smirks - full of confidence.

All three men go into their respective corners - Michaels doing a couple of Hindu Squats, Orton simply resting his back against the turnbuckle, in his own world, but Edge doesn’t take his eyes off of Orton, obsessed with revenge. The bell rings as Lillian Garcia steps in.


Lillian Garcia:
The following contest is the THREE WAY DANCE and it is for the WWE CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!

Nice pop.

Lillian Garcia:
All three superstars will start the match up on the inside of the ring. Once the first pinfall, submission, or disqualification occurs, the superstar who was pinned or made to submit will have been eliminated from the match and the match up will continue with the remaining two superstars. The winner of THAT fall would be the WWE Champion!!!

Orton shakes his head in disgust, still visibly bothered that he must beat both men to retain his title.

Lillian Garcia:
Introducing challenger number one … from San Antonio, Texas, weighing in tonight at 225 pounds … he is a former TWO TIME Royal Rumble winner … an Intercontinental, European, Tag Team, World Heavyweight and WWE Champion … the first Grand Slam Champion in WWE history!!! Accompanied to the ring by the SENSATIONAL SHERRI
(crowd pops), he is the Showstopper, The Headliner, The Main Event, THE ICON … ladies and gentlemen, THE HEARTBREAK KIIIDDD … SHAAAAWWN MIIICHAELLSSSS!!!

The crowd gives a mixed reaction as the always colorful Shawn Michaels raises his hands into the air, loving the reaction and attention, loving the spotlight - positive or negative.

Lillian Garcia:
Challenger number two … from Toronto, Ontario, weighing in tonight at 250 pounds … he is a former ELEVEN TIME TAG TEAM CHAMPION … a former United States, Intercontinental and THREE TIME WWE Champion … accompanied to the ring by LITA … ladies and gentlemen, THE RATED R SUPERSTAR … EEEEDGE!!!

Cheers for the Rated R Superstar but he hasn’t taken his eyes off of Orton, as he stares intensely at the WWE Champion.

Lillian Garcia:
And their opponent--

Boos immediately begin to pour in as Orton smirks.

Lillian Garcia:
Representing the RKO Army … from St. Louis, Missouri, weighing in tonight at 255 pounds … he is a former Intercontinental Champion and is the youngest World Heavyweight Champion in the history of the WWE. Accompanied to the ring tonight by MELINA … ladies and gentlemen, the current reigning and defending WWE CHAMPIOOOONNNN … THE LEGEND KILLER … RAAAANDY ORRRRTTONNN!!!!


Major league heat as Orton grins, posing as Edge watches with hatred boiling in his eyes. Lillian steps out of the ring, as Orton unstraps the title belt from around his waist and gives it a look before he hands it to the referee.

Edge, Orton and Michaels all move closer to the middle of the ring and the referee shows the title to each of the three men before raising it to the crowd, whom respond by applauding the top championship of the Raw brand.


Jim Ross:
Three of the best wrestlers in the world - Edge, Michaels and Orton - WWE Championship on the line. Three Way Dance. Here we go. Should be one hell of a barn burner!!

Jerry Lawler:
A slobberknocker!


***Bell Rings***





WWE Championship Match - Three Way Dance
“The Legend Killer” Randy Orton(c)
w/Melina vs.
“The Rated R Superstar” Edge
w/Lita vs.
“The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels
w/Sensational Sherri

Many of the members of the crowd are up to their feet, buzzing with anticipation for our first main event title contest of the night. Edge, Shawn Michaels and the WWE Champion Randy Orton each spend a second or two, looking at one another - but that doesn’t last for long as Edge makes a beeline for Orton!

Randy quickly back steps, wanting none of the Rated R Superstar this early in the contest but Edge doesn’t let him get too far, hitting the champion with a hard right in the corner! The Rated R Superstar then begins to wail away on him, hitting him with hard right hands, showing Orton no mercy as the referee begs him to get himself and Randy out of the corner.

Finally, the ref pulls him off of Orton, but Edge goes right back in, delivering a kick to the gut before hitting the Legend Killer with hard forearm shots, right to his “pretty boy” face! HBK watches on from the corner as the ref once again gets in between the two hated rivals, Edge and Orton. This time, the referee warns Edge, letting him know that he’ll be eliminated from the match up (via DQ) if he doesn’t follow orders.

Begrudgingly, Edge slowly backs away from the corner, giving Orton a chance to exit on his own power. The Rated R Superstar then turns around … SWEET CHIN MUSIC!!!!!!!

The crowd gives a thunderous mixed reaction as Shawn Michaels drops Edge with his patented super kick within the opening minutes of the contest!!! Edge hit’s the canvas and rolls out of the ring, hitting the ground with a thud, damn near out of it! Lita checks on Edge, whom is barely moving as The Showstopper then goes on the attack, hitting the Legend Killer with a boot to the gut, before bringing him out of the corner and towards the opposite one, slamming his head down against the turnbuckle!

Michaels then pulls back, delivering a stinging knife edged chop to “WOOOOOS” from the audience! Orton tries to fight back, hitting a couple of rights hands to the face of Michaels and then looking for a big clothesline but HBK shows his elusiveness, avoiding contact. With the counter, Michaels ends up in the corner and Orton goes for a clothesline but HBK avoids that one as well with a simple duck under. Michaels then kicks away at the abdomen of Orton before lighting him up with another scintillating knife edge chop … and another!

Orton comes out of the corner and begins to walk away, holding his chest in pain, which is now beginning to turn red. Michaels follows him, not letting him catch a break. HBK climbs the middle turnbuckle, and begins to swing away on the face of Orton, hitting lightning quick right hands!! Orton shoves Michaels to the ground but The Showstopper gets right back up, showing no relent as he leaps right back onto the middle turnbuckle and once again begins to wail away on the WWE Champion!

Michaels then grabs Orton by the hand and shoots him into the opposite corner! HBK soon charges in but Orton gets his elbow up and catches Michaels right in the face, causing Michaels to stumble backward. Orton then sprints out of the corner and drills The Icon with a thunderous clothesline, taking him down!!! Orton gets up, alternating between holding his face and his chest in pain, clearly smarting from Michaels’ offense.

Sherri and Melina - clapping - watch on with anticipation as Orton lifts Michaels back up to his feet and angrily backs him up into the corner with authority! Orton then measures the Heartbreak Kid up and hits him right in the temple with precise, quick right hands, taking control with a downed Edge on the outside. Orton delivers a stiff kick to the gut before going to the European Uppercut, sending Michaels head snapping backwards!!

Randy then grabs HBK by the hand and sends him into the opposite corner with great intensity!! Michaels hit’s the turnbuckle hard and stumbles back towards the middle of the ring, only for Orton to leap up and take him down with his patented picture perfect DROPKICK!! A faint “H - B - K” chant starts up as Orton lets out a smirk, as he lifts Michaels back up to his feet.

The Showstopper begins to fight back, hitting Orton with an unsuspecting shot to the stomach, stunning the Legend Killer! Michaels then follows up, sensing the opening here, and drills Orton with a hard right hand … and another … and one more, rocking the young champion! The Showstopper then shoots off of the ropes but once he comes back, Orton reacts quickly, rapidly scooping him up and planting him with a power slam!!

Melina lets out one of those god awful screams as Orton smirks, plopping down to the canvas and stalking, just waiting for Michaels to return back up to his feet. HBK begins to move, still holding his lower back as the cold blue eyes of Orton watch intensely. Michaels uses the ropes to pull himself back up and once he turns around - ORTON QUICKLY GETS UP TO HIS FEET … GOING FOR THE RKO -- BUT MICHAELS SHOVES HIM OFF -- RIGHT INTO A BOOT FROM EDGE!!!

Orton falls down to the canvas, rolling around on the ground holding his face as Edge walks over to The Showstopper! Edge kicks Michaels in the gut and grabs the back of his head before tossing HBK over the top rope -- BUT MICHAELS HOLDS ONTO THE TOP ROPE!!! The crowd pops as Michaels SKINS THE CAT, bringing himself back into the ring!! He turns around and Edge charges forward and drills him with a clothesline, sending the Heartbreak Kid out of the ring and to the outside!!

Shawn Michaels hit’s the ground hard and Edge turns his attention towards his nemesis, the Legend Killer. Orton attempts to get back up to his feet but Edge hits him with a stiff kick to the face, sending him right back down, before he just lets loose with boots to the gut and skull, really letting out the pent up frustration he‘s had since January!! A “Rated R” chant starts up as Edge lifts Orton back up to his feet, backing him into the corner and drilling him with a hard right and then two more, continuing the assault.

The Rated R Superstar then grabs the hand of Orton, going for the Irish whip but the champion counters it, sending Edge in! Edge this the turnbuckle and Orton charges in, looking to capitalize but Edge gets both of his boots up, slamming them into the face of Orton, knocking him backward, causing Orton to stumble down to a knee!!

Edge leaps to the middle turnbuckle, perhaps looking for something impactful, and obviously high risk. He leaps off but the WWE Champion quickly reacts, leaping up and catching Edge with a DROPKICK IN MID AIR!!! The crowd “OHS” as the Legend Killer rapidly crawls over, going for the cover, the first pinfall attempt of the match up!!
………………………………....
…1…
……………………..

……………
…2…
……………………….
NO!
Edge kicks out!! Orton seems ready to moan and groan when … MICHAELS YANKS ORTON OUT OF THE RING!! Orton throws a right hand but Michaels blocks it, and drills Randy with a couple of strong right hands of his own!! Orton quickly cuts of his momentum though, delivering a kick to the gut of HBK, keeling him over! Orton then grabs him by the hand and goes for the Irish whip but Michaels counters and SENDS ORTON INTO THE STEEL STEPS SHOULDER FIRST!!!

The Showstopper lets out a confident smirk, before rolling under the bottom rope and back into the ring. Edge slowly gets up to his feet, holding his stomach a bit as Michaels turns around and the two superstars stare into each others eyes. The Rated R Superstar takes his hand off of his stomach and holds his jaw - making reference to Michaels earlier Superkick as Michaels smirks, shrugging his shoulders with his usual sly grin. We get a quick shot of Melina, who checks up on the downed Orton with great concern.

The two men move towards each other, talking a bit of trash and its HBK who is the first to strike, hitting Edge with a hard right to the face! Michaels doesn’t give Edge a chance to retaliate, hitting him with another hard shot and then following up with a knife edge chop, causing Edge to stumble towards the corner! He grabs the Rated R Superstar by the back of the head and slams his face against the turnbuckle! HBK then attempts to follow up, going for a right hand but Edge blocks it, and comes out of the corner swinging, catching Michaels with several clean shots to the face, backing him up against the ropes!

Edge then grabs Michaels by the hand and shoots him off of the ropes. Once HBK comes back, Edge drills him with a knee to the gut, sending the veteran spiraling down to the canvas! Edge lets out a bit of a smile before lifting Michaels back up to his feet and preparing to hit a EDGECUTION DDT - but Michaels counters, spinning out of it!! HBK throws a clothesline but Edge ducks it, avoiding contact and rolling Michaels up in a school boy!!
………………………………....
…1…
……………………..

……………
…2…
……………………….
NO!
Michaels kicks out and both men quickly get back up to their feet but Edge catches Michaels with a boot to the gut and follows up with a strong right hand, sending him stumbling into the corner! Edge pulls him out and towards the middle of the ropes, before grabbing his hand and shooting him off! HBK comes back and avoids a clothesline from Edge, shoots off of the ropes once more, comes back and takes Edge down with a FLYING FOREARM!!

After a quick second or two, the crowd gives a huge mixed reaction as HBK KIPS UP TO HIS FEET!! With Edge down, The Showstopper arrogantly saunters over to the legs of Edge, grabbing the left one, causing the crowd to let out a “WOOOO”!! Michaels then spins around and adjusts the legs, LOCKING IN THE FIGURE FOUR!!

Edge yells out in pain as Michaels has the hold applied to perfection, mimicking the deadly submission of one of his idols. Edge leans back onto the canvas, trying to relive himself of some of the pain.

…1…
………………………
…2…
… NO!
Edge sits up, not wanting to be pinned. Edge lays back down again and once more the referee administers the count.

…1…
………………..……
… NO!
Edge kicks out again and Michaels has grown tired, letting go of the hold, getting back up to his feet and delivering a nasty stomp to the face of Edge!

The crowd boos as Lita clutches her mouth, almost feeling the blow to the face of her boyfriend. Randy Orton finally rolls back into the ring, after gaining a bit of a respite and throws a right at Michaels, only to have it blocked by The Showstopper and returned in full, HBK hitting a right hand of his own! Michaels grabs the hand of Orton and shoots him into the corner. HBK soon charges in but Orton LEAP FROGS over the top and Michaels goes slamming into the STEEL TURN POST!! Michaels’ momentum sends him out of the ring and falling down to the ground on the outside.

Orton turns around -- and Edge comes charging, LOOKING FOR THE SPEAR -- BUT ORTON LEAP FROGS HIM AS WELL!!! Edge stops his momentum and turns around -- ORTON GOES FOR THE RKO -- BUT EDGE COUNTERS, breaks the grip, spins Edge around, kicks him in the gut AND PLANTS HIM WITH THE EDGECUTION DDT!!!! The crowd has come alive and to its feet as Edge immediately goes for the cover!!
………………………………....
…1…
……………………..

……………
…2…
……………………….

NO!
ORTON KICKS OUT!!! and A sigh of disappointment comes from the audience as we would have been guaranteed a new champion had the pinfall attempt been successful. Edge gets up to his feet, pissed off, growling with anger, as he stares down at his fallen opponent. Michaels begins to rise to his feet on the outside as Edge walks over to the corner and gets set, looking for another Spear!! Orton slowly rises up to his feet, using the ropes to pull himself up. The Legend Killer slowly turns around and EDGE CHARGES -- BUT MICHAELS LEAPS FORWARD, TAKING EDGE DOWN WITH A FLYING FOREARM!!!

HBK KIPS BACK UP!!! The crowd pops as Michaels smirks but soon enough, Orton grabs him by his hair, yanking him down a bit, before turning around and connecting with his patented MODIFIED BACKBREAKER!! Orton tops him, hooking the far leg!!
………………………………....
…1…
……………………..

……………
…2…
……………………….
NO!
EDGE BREAKS IT UP!! The crowd begins to applaud, simply for the effort shown by all three men here tonight. Edge and Orton slowly get back up to their feet as Michaels recover on the canvas. Randy hits a boot to the gut and then follows up with a right hand! He backs the Rated R Superstar up, grabs his hand and shoots him off of the ropes. Orton gets set too early and Edge slides a bit, getting low and rolls Orton up into a small package!
………………………………....
…1…
……………………..

……………
…2…
……………………….
NO!
Orton kicks out and both superstars once again get back up to a vertical base almost simultaneously. Orton charges at Edge and the Rated R Superstar quickly backs up, sidesteps Orton, grabs him by the back of the head and tosses him over the top rope!! Randy lands on his feet on the apron but he’s not there for long, as Edge charges ahead and DRILLS ORTON WITH A SPEAR BETWEEN THE ROPES, SENDING HIM TO THE GROUND!!!!

Edge smiles, loving the sight of the Legend Killer in pain, clutching his stomach, face clearly showing his ache. Edge wipes the hair out of his face … but MICHAELS COMES FROM BEHIND HIM, ROLLING HIM UP WITH A SCHOOL BOY!!!
………………………………....
…1…
……………………..

{MICHAELS GRABS A HANDFUL OF TIGHTS!!!}

…2…
……………………….
NO!!!
EDGE KICKS OUT!!! The crowd completely erupts into applause before starting a “Rated - R” chant for the gutsy Canadian. Michaels, with a angry frown on his face, lifts Edge back up to his feet and delivers a right hand, backing him up into the corner, before hitting another knife edged chop! Michaels then grabs the hand of Edge and attempts to Irish whip him into the corner, but not only does Edge reverse the move, he reverses the momentum as well, sending Michaels into the ropes! HBK comes back and Edge throws a right hand but Michaels comes back, taking him down with a clothesline!!

Edge gets back up and Michaels takes him down with one more! The Rated R Superstar shows his perseverance, continuing to get back up but each time, Michaels takes him back down, this time with a right hand! Edge once again gets up but this time Michaels lifts him up, hitting a reverse atomic drop before shooting off of the ropes and taking Edge down with a sledge!! This time, Edge gets up much slower on wobbly legs and Michaels scoops him up, hitting him with a body slam in the center of the ring!!

Michaels takes the time to look around the arena, thousands upon thousands of fans giving him an incredible mixed reaction, which causes Michaels to smirk, before he walks over to the corner and begins his ascent to the top turnbuckle!! HBK gets onto the top and gets himself before leaping off, LOOKING FOR THE FLYING ELBOW DROP … AND HITS IT!!!!!!! Edge clutches his chest in pain as Michaels gets back up to his feet and holds his hands, loving the reaction from this fired up crowd here tonight!!

HBK walks over to the corner and begins to stomp his foot. BOOM … BOOM … BOOM … BOOM … BOOM … BOOM … and the Rated R Superstar finally begins to wobble up to his feet.

Edge turns around and MICHAELS GOES FOR SWEET CHIN MUSIC … BUT EDGE DUCKS IT AND LIFTS MICHAELS UP INTO THE ELECTRIC CHAIR POSITION!!! Ford Field gets up to its feet as Randy Orton climbs onto the apron and begins to climb up the turnbuckle!!! HBK waives his hands wildly, somehow, trying to get out of this horrible predicament as Edge carries him around!!

Orton gets set on the top turnbuckle as Edge turns Michaels around! ORTON LEAPS OFF THE TOP AND HITS A DOOMSDAY CROSS BODY, TAKING MICHAELS FROM OFF OF EDGE ALL THE WAY DOWN, CRASHING INTO THE CANVAS!!!!!!!!!!

A “HO - LY SHIT” chant breaks out as both Orton and Michaels lay out, completely broken as Edge lays down in the corner, against the turnbuckle. Ross and Lawler put over the unbelievably incredible move as Edge shakes the cobwebs loose and slowly begins to crawl over to the fallen Shawn Michaels. He finally does and hooks the far leg!!

…1...

……………

…2...

……………………….
THREE-
NO!!!!
MICHAELS KICKS OUT!!! An incredibly loud “H - B - K” chant breaks out as Edge gets back up to his feet and looks down at both Michaels and Orton. The Rated R Superstar lets out a smirk before he grabs the Legend Killer, and lifts him up to his feet, before tossing him between the ropes and to the outside of the ring, to the floor!

Edge lifts him up and attempts to slam his face against the Spanish announce table but Orton blocks it using his hands, and then catches Edge with a hard back elbow to the gut! Orton then grabs his face and slams it against the Spanish announce table! Orton then hits him with a hard right hand … and another … and then two more, before pulling back and rocking him with a strong European Uppercut, sending Edge to the ground!!

The Legend Killer then begins to clear the Raw announce table of the top, monitors, cords and such. He lifts Edge up but the Rated R Superstar has plenty of fight left, hitting a shot to the gut of Orton before slamming his face against the announce table with authority … and again … and over … and over … and over again!! Orton collapses onto the table, completely drained as Edge turns him over onto his back. Edge then strikes him with a couple of hard shots to make sure he’s not going anywhere.

Shawn Michaels gets up in the ring as Edge continues to wail away on the WWE Champion. Edge finally stops the assault, turns around and attempts to climb up onto the apron but MICHAELS HITS A BASEBALL SLIDE!!! Michaels’ feet smack Edge right in the face, and the momentum knocks him backward and on top of Orton!!!

Once again, a tremendous buzz begins to fill the arena as Michaels looks around for a bit before walking over to the corner and climbing the turnbuckle, very slowly, as this match up has taken a tremendous toll on his body. Ross and Lawler plead for HBK not to do it as Michaels gets himself set on the top turnbuckle, staring down at the motionless Orton and Edge, before staring around at this capacity crowd which watch on in awe.

SHAWN MICHAELS THEN LEAPS OFF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE AND CRASHES DOWN ONTO EDGE AND ORTON WITH A FLYING ELBOW DROP THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE AND THE WHOLE DAMN THING SHATTERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

“HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!”

“THAT WAS THE DAMNDEST THING THAT I HAVE EVER WITNESSED! SHAWN MICHAELS MAY BE DEAD!!!”

“ALL THREE OF THESE GUYS ARE DESTROYED, J.R.!!!”

Sentiments of the audience, Jim Ross, and Jerry Lawler, respectively, as Edge, Orton and Michaels lay among what’s remaining of a table, a complete heap, a complete wreck. The three women at ringside each check on their respective wrestler as does the referee. Nobody moves an inch for what seems like an eternity until Shawn Michaels slowly begins to crawl away from the wreckage and towards the apron, using the skirt of it to help himself back up to his feet.

The crowd are all standing and applauding as Shawn Michaels begins walking towards the ruins, on wobbly legs. He reaches down and grabs Edge, attempting to lift him up to his feet but Edge falls right back down, completely dead weight. Michaels tries again, this time successfully and tosses the Rated R Superstar’s lifeless body back into the ring. HBK soon follows, as does the referee and Michaels falls right down on Edge, getting a lateral press!
………………………………....
…1...

………………

…2...
…………………..……

………
NO!!!!
Edge somehow, someway kicks out!! Michaels is far too fatigued, far too damaged to be upset as he struggles back up to his feet and looks around at the sold out crowd, which have now started a “Lets Go Edge!” “Lets Go Michaels!” duel chant.

The Showstopper walks towards the corner once more and after a long pause …
… … … ...
begins to stomp his foot yet again, tuning up the band, much to the delight of everyone in attendance!! The Rated R Superstar slowly gets back up to his feet, using the ropes to pull himself up before turning around -- MICHAELS GOES FOR SWEET CHIN MUSIC -- BUT EDGE DUCKS IT AND SHOOTS OFF THE ROPES -- AND HITS THE SPEAR!!!!!!!!!! Michaels is DOWN and Edge takes a couple of deep breaths, regaining himself before covering Michaels, hooking the far leg!!!

…1...
…………………..

…2...

……………………….
THREE-
NO!!!!
MICHAELS KICKS OUT!!!!!
The crowd starts another chant for Michaels as Edge looks up at the referee in complete disbelief, holding up three fingers, almost begging for the three count. Edge soon refocuses, getting back up to his feet and gingerly - very gingerly making his way over to the corner, getting set in the corner, just waiting - salivating as he waits for Michaels to arise.

HBK begins to stir. After being hit with a Doomsday Crossbody, crashing through an announce table from 13 feet in the air, and being speared in half, Shawn Michaels has still got the will to continue on and has seemingly gotten this crowd back on his side with his incredible heart.

Edge waives his fingers, calling for HBK to get up and finally, Michaels begins to use the ropes to pull himself up, while using the turnbuckles to balance the majority of his body weight. Michaels ultimately gets up to a complete vertical base, though basically out on his feet as he stumbles around the ring. He turns around and EDGE CHARGES FORWARD …………………….. HITTING ANOTHER SPEAR ON MICHAELS!!!!!!

EDGE WITH THE COVER, HOOKING THE FAR LEG!!!!

…1...
…………………..………..

…2...

……………………….
!!!THREE!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ELIMINATED: SHAWN MICHAELS AT 19:25.

Half of the crowd sighs and the other half pops as Edge has eliminated Shawn Michaels from this match up!! A slight “H - B - K” chant starts up but it soon turns into a loud one as the Heartbreak Kid and Edge lay out on the ground in fatigue as Orton lays against the crowd barricade, with a slight smile on his face, though still clearly in pain, wincing.

HBK eventually rolls out of the ring, and receives a standing ovation as he raises his right hand into the air, appreciating this show of respect from the sold out crowd as he and the Sensational Sherri then helps Michaels back up the entrance ramp and to the backstage area.

Edge gets back up to his feet and joins the crowd in their applause, before he stops … and ever so slowly turns around towards Orton. Edge’s face shows his trademark maniacal smile as Orton’s smile disappears and he looks deadly serious. The two arch rivals look intently at each other, going up and down, as NOW it comes down to a one on one match, with the number prize of the brand on the line, the WWE Championship.

The Rated R Superstar backs up and allows Orton entry into the ring, with a smirk on his face. Orton takes his time and walks around the ringside area, to the encouragement of Melina. Edge waits patiently as Orton climbs onto the ring apron, steps in -- AND HERE WE GO!!

Orton charges ahead and drills Edge with a really strong forearm shiver, which knocks him backwards but Edge regains himself and comes back, hitting Orton with strong shot of his own! Orton with another shot … then one from Edge … then Orton … then Edge … then Orton … then Edge and the two superstars begin to exchange blows in the center of the ring!

Edge then gains the advantage, catching Orton with a couple of shots in a row and then backing him up and attempting to shoot him off of the ropes - but Orton counters sending Edge in! Randy leaps up and goes for that dropkick but Edge holds onto the top rope and stops his momentum, causing the Legend Killer to crash and burn on his back!!

Edge grabs Orton’s legs and attempts to lock in the EDGECATOR -- but Orton fights for all he’s worth, kicking his legs like a mad man!!! The Rated R Superstar finally gives up on locking in the hold and instead decides to catapult the champion into the corner, causing his face to slam into the turnbuckle!! Orton is basically out on his feet as Edge gets back up to his feet, grabs the chin of the Legend Killer and slams him to the canvas, HITTING THE EDGE -O- MATIC, GRABBING THE LEGS!!!

…1...
………………….

…2...
…………………….……

NO!!!!
ORTON KICKS OUT!!! The two superstars lay on the canvas for a bit until Edge finally gets back up to his feet, trying to think of a way to put this thing away. Edge exit’s the ring and climbs onto the apron. The Rated R Superstar then begins to climb the turnbuckle and gets himself set on top -- but Orton quickly gets up to his feet and drills Edge with a right hand, knocking him off balance and straddling Edge on the top turnbuckle!!

The crowd groans as King tells his stale “Lita’s night is ruined” joke while Orton hits Edge with a couple more hard rights. Orton then begins to climb the turnbuckle as well and goes for a SUPERPLEX -- but Edge fights out of it, hitting Orton with hard right hands to the gut and SHOVING ORTON TO THE GROUND BELOW!!!

Edge shakes off the blows to head and gets back onto the top turnbuckle - set, ready, crouched and prepared as Orton begins to get back up to his feet. Once he completely gets back up to a vertical base, EDGE LEAPS OFF THE TOP, LOOKING FOR A CROSSBODY -- AND HITS IT -- BUT ORTON ROLLS THROUGH -- AND THEN EDGE ROLLS THROUGH, COVERING THE WWE CHAMPION!!!!!!

…1...
……………………………....

…2...
……………

NO!!!!
ORTON KICKS OUT AGAIN!!! Both superstars get back up to their feet but it’s Orton whom reacts the quickest, catching Edge with a thumb to the eye!! Edge turns around, holding his face and the Legend Killer rolls him up with a school boy!!

…1...
……………………..

…2...
……………………………….

NO!!!!
Edge kicks out and both men get back up to their feet but Orton once again gets the jump on his remaining challenger as he leaps up and catches Edge with a beautiful dropkick right to the chest, taking him down!! Orton with another cover, hooking the far leg!!

…1...

……………………..
…2...
……………………………….

NO!!!!
Edge gets a shoulder up, just avoiding the loss!! Edge struggles away from Orton, using the ropes to pull himself up and Orton lifts him the rest of the way up, before backing him against the ropes, grabbing his hand and shooting him off! Edge comes back and Orton throws the clothesline - but Edge gets under his arm and wraps his own right arm, around the neck of the Legend Killer - HITTING THE DOWNWARD SPIRAL, HIS FORMER FINISHER, PULLING OUT ALL THE STOPS!!!! Edge turns him over, covering him!!!

…1...
……………………..

…2...

……………………………….

NO!!!!
ORTON KICKS OUT!! Edge begins to rip and tear at his hair, JUST missing out on recapturing his WWE Championship which Orton stole at NYR. Lita begins slapping on the canvas, getting the fans riled up and telling Edge to stay focused as well, while Orton begins to crawl away. Edge walks over to the corner and gets ready to finish Orton off, much like he finished off Shawn Michaels earlier - with the SPEAR!

Edge calls for Orton to get up and the Legend Killer finally does and EDGE CHARGES, GOING FOR THE SPEAR - BUT ORTON KICKS HIM RIGHT IN THE FACE!!!! Edge gets up holding his mouth and Orton GOES FOR THE RKO -- BUT EDGE COUNTERS -- INTO A BACKSLIDE!!!!

…1...
……………………..

…2...
…………………………….

NO!!!!
ORTON KICKS OUT AGAIN AND ROLLS THROUGH -- THEN KICKS EDGE RIGHT IN THE FACE ONCE MORE!!! The Rated R Superstar crumples to the canvas and Orton grabs his legs … LOCKING IN THE TEXAS CLOVERLEAF!!!!!

Melina lets out a glass breaking scream and Lita shakes her head “no” as the end does appear to be near, with Orton having the incredibly effective submission hold locked in to perfection, dead center of the ring!!! Orton’s face shows his intensity, almost foaming at the mouth as The Rated R Superstar reaches out in pain, far away from the ropes - far away from salvation - far away from the WWE Championship!!

A small “Please Don’t Tap” chant starts up as Edge begins slamming his forearms hard into the canvas, attempting to inch himself closer to the ropes, NEEDING the rope break for this match up to continue! Orton shows his determination, pulling back on the submission hold and causes Edge to raise his hand up …

…………………………...........

…………………………..

……………

………

KEEPS ON FIGHTING!!! Edge continues to scratch and claw, REACHING OUT … AND GRABBING THE BOTTOM ROPE!!!! The crowd erupts into cheers as Orton keeps the hold on in frustration, attempting to break the legs and back of the Rated R Superstar!! The referee administers his five count, making it all the way until the end and Orton finally lets it go. The Legend Killer begins to pace around the ring in anger, thinking he may not be able to put this match up and this deadly opponent away.

A “Randy Sucks” chant as Orton decides to exit the ring and climb onto the apron. Lita and Melina watch intently as Orton climbs the turnbuckle and waits on Edge to arise. The Rated R Superstar slowly gets up to his feet, clearly in favor of his sore back. Edge turns around and ORTON GOES FOR A FRONT DROPKICK -- BUT EDGE AVOIDS IT AND ORTON CRASHES AND BURNS, SLAMMING INTO THE CANVAS!!!

Edge quickly grabs the legs of Orton and after a bit of a struggle - EDGE LOCKS IN THE EDGECATOR!!!! The crowd erupts as the tide has seemingly been turned -- but Edge’s back is so weak, Orton is able to move relatively quickly, swiftly moving towards the edge of the ring, reaching out -- AND GRABBING THE BOTTOM ROPE!!!

Edge lets go of the hold and falls off of Orton and onto the ground, fatigued. The Rated R Superstar uses the ropes to pull himself up as Orton does much of the same on the opposite side of the ring. The two men finally get back up onto their feet and turn towards each and other and its Edge who’s the first to attempt a strike as he throws a right hand but Orton ducks it … leaps up … GOES FOR THE RKO … AND HITS IT!!!!!!!!!!!!

Orton takes a second to regain himself and then WITH THE COVER, HOOKING BOTH LEGS!!!!

…1...
…………………..………..

…2...
………………………

THREE
!!!!!!!!!!!!!NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
EDGE GETS A SHOULDER UP!!!! AND THE CROWD GOES COMPLETELY APE SHIT WITH AN INCREDIBLE POP!!! Orton goes crazy, getting right back up to his feet and grabbing the referee by the collar!!! He backs the ref into the corner and begins yelling his brains out! Another “Rated R” chant starts up as Orton slowly turns toward the downed former champion and mounts him, raining down right hand … after right … after right … after right, destroying the Rated R Superstar!!

Orton then lifts the limp Edge back up to his feet and begins slapping him, yelling at him while telling him to “LET IT GO AND GIVE IT UP!!” Orton then backs Edge up and shoots him off of the ropes! Edge comes back and Orton throws a clothesline but Edge ducks it, shoots off of the ropes once more and -- COMES BACK, HITTING THE SPEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Edge takes a breath and covers the Legend Killer!!! NEW CHAMPION!!!???

…1...
…………………..………..

…2...

………………
THREE
!!!NO!!!
ORTON KICKS OUT!!! Edge doesn’t get upset - he can’t - he’s too worn out, too fatigued as both men lie out on the canvas, completely drained. Almost everyone in the audience stands up on their feet, cheering and applauding as Lita and Melina look on with angst. Ross and Lawler put over the incredibly competitive nature of this match up - one of the greatest matches in WrestleMania history as Edge and Orton once again get back up to their feet, and they both move on spaghetti legs, every ounce of their being, being put on the line right here tonight on the grandest stage of them all.

The two men turn and face one another and Edge charges at Orton but the Legend Killer sidesteps him and sends Edge going over the top rope - but Edge holds on!! Edge then climbs up the turnbuckle as fast as he can and gets set on the top as Orton walks to the opposite corner and rests, thinking Edge is on his ass somewhere outside of the ring. Melina points to Edge on the other side and Orton turns around, sees Edge on the top!! The Legend Killer charges in and EDGE LEAPS OFF THE TOP, JUMPING OVER ORTON!!! Orton stops his momentum before he hits the turnbuckle and turns around!! EDGE CHARGES IN -- but Orton LEAPS UP and ROLLS HIM UP INTO A SUNSET FLIP!!!

…1...

…………………
…2...

……………………….
NO!!!
Edge kicks out and rolls up to his feet as Orton gets up as well. The Rated R Superstar once again comes charging in, looking to put this one away but Orton lifts him up into the air!! Edge lands on the top turnbuckle -- not very gracefully, but up there nevertheless!! He slowly turns himself around and catches himself a nice view of the current WWE Champion showing off to the crowd, performing his “Destiny” pose for all to see.

The crowd begins to go wild as Edge just waits - and waits - and waits for the Legend Killer to turn around. Melina wildly points at Edge, jumping up and down to warn Orton of the impending danger! Orton finally turns around and …
EDGE LEAPS OFF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE …

… RIGHT INTO AN ONCOMING ORTON …

… BUT ORTON COUNTERS, LEAPING INTO THE AIR AND CATCHING EDGE WITH A SUPER RKO!!!!!!

THE CROWD BOOS WILDLY AS ORTON COVERS EDGE, HOOKING BOTH LEGS!!!!!!

…1...
…………………..………..

…2...

……………………….
!!!THREE!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Winner: AND STILL WWE CHAMPION, RANDY ORTON at 30:08.


A few boos rain in but mostly just hushed silence while Randy Orton and Edge lay out in the middle of the ring. Both Melina and Lita slide into the ring, and attend to their respective superstars, Melina all smiles, as Orton sits up a bit, smirking, Lita making sure Edge isn’t too badly injured.


Jim Ross:
RANDY ORTON HAS JUST PINNED EDGE!!! RANDY ORTON IS STILL THE WWE CHAMPION!!!

Jerry Lawler:
HAHA, I don’t believe it, J.R.!! It’s destiny!


Orton is helped back up to his feet and is soon handed the WWE Championship. Melina straps the title around the waist of The Legend Killer as he uses the ropes to hold himself up. A slight “Orton” chant starts up but that’s soon fazed out by heat as Orton does his Destiny pose in the middle of the ring, before rolling out, knowing that he was a move away from losing.


Jim Ross:
Randy Orton has somehow, someway managed to escaped from both The Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels and The Rated R Superstar Edge, and managed to escape with his WWE Championship intact in one of the greatest and most hectic WWE Title matches we’ve ever had here at WrestleMania.

Jerry Lawler:
Absolutely. I mean - just look at the shape of our announce table - we don’t have one!! This was an incredibly intense match up, but in the end, destiny prevailed and Randy Orton remains the WWE Champion.


Orton performs his Destiny pose at the top of the entrance ramp to more heat, with Melina by his side, before he heads through the curtain and into the back.
Inside the ring, Lita helps Edge back up to his feet amongst “Rated R” chants and a tremendous amount of applause, as Edge holds his head in pain, looking quite frustrated and disappointed.


Jim Ross:
That man right there, “The Rated R Superstar” Edge has absolutely NOTHING to be ashamed of. Both he and Shawn Michaels gave it absolutely everything, and a inch here or there meant the difference in this match up.

Jerry Lawler:
Edge managed to put his personal hatred of Orton aside for the sake of the WWE Title, who went for broke on that last move, but it bit him in the keister. No shame on his part for going for it all.

Jim Ross:
I can tell you this … you better believe it’s not over between Edge and Orton, not by a long shot. Signing off for Monday Night Raw, I’m Jim Ross, here with Jerry The King Lawler. We’ve got one match left and that’s the World Heavyweight Championship, coming right up!



***



Backstage, Stone Cold Steve Austin, face still red with dried up blood, limps down a hallway, a couple of beers in his hand.

Wearing a T-shirt over his wrestling gear, Austin stops at a locker room which reads “The Rock”, causing the crowd to cheer. Austin steps in, and looks at The Rock, sitting against his lockers, face also covered with dried blood.

Rock looks up and Austin walks over, taking a seat next to The People’s Champion. The Great One looks at him rather skeptically, but neither man says a word. Austin holds out one of the beers for The Rock. Rocky slowly takes the beer from Rock and opens it as Stone Cold does the same, before the two touch beers.

Austin and Rock then drink the beers calmly, dried up blood on their faces here at WrestleMania. The camera then fades out as The Great One and The Rattlesnake, two of the most fearsome rivals in the history of the business, share a couple of beers on what could possibly be their very last WrestleMania together … and last WrestleMania at all.



***



A video package plays, highlighting the 2007 Hall of Fame induction ceremony which took place last night.

“The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes is the first man inducted into the Hall of Fame, inducted by his “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. Flair talks about the incredible respect, and admiration he has for Rhodes, before moving on to their ever so memorable feud back in the NWA. Rhodes comes out and embraces Flair, before he cuts a phenomenal promo, riling the crowd up, before thanking them.

Thereafter, Mr. Fuji is inducted by Don Muraco,

The Wild Samoans, Afa and Sika, are inducted by their sons.

The late, great Gordon Solie is inducted by Jim Ross and the induction is accepted by several members of his family.

Nick Bockwinkel is inducted by Bobby “The Brain” Heenan, who as always, tells several jokes to the crowd.

The Sheik is inducted by a couple of his trainees, ECW alumni, Rob Van Dam and Sabu. The Sheik’s family accepts the honor.

“Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig is inducted, to an incredible reaction. Bret “The Hitman” Hart accepts the award, talking about his tremendous matches with Hennig, and Hennig’s family accepts the award on his behalf to huge “Perfect” chants from the crowd.

Finally, the Hardcore Legend Mick Foley comes out and talks about his own career and the many wrestlers he was influenced by. Especially the man he’s inducting tonight, a good friend of his, Terry Funk. Funk comes out and cuts an emotional speech, talking about the sacrifices that he and his family have had to make for him to do what he loves. Funk then thanks the fans as we fade back to the WrestleMania arena.


Back to ringside.


Mean Gene Okerlund stands in the ring, microphone in hand.


Gene Okerlund:
Ladies and gentlemen, the 2007 Class of the WWE Hall of Fame!!
(Crowd cheers) “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes!!

Dusty Rhodes steps out onto the stage accompanied by the WWE Women’s Champion, Mickie James. Dusty gives Mickie a twirl, before Mickie leaves, and Rhodes waves to the crowd.

Gene Okerlund:
Nick Bockwinkel!!

Maria accompanies Nick Bockwinkel out to a respectable pop.

Gene Okerlund:
The Sheik!!

Members of The Sheik’s family enter the arena, alongside Rob Van Dam, Sabu (clearly limping) escorted by Gail Kim.

Gene Okerlund:
Mr. Fuji!!

Mr. Fuji steps out onto the stage to a nice pop with Raw diva, Lita, by his side.

Gene Okerlund:
“Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig!!

Kristal Marshall escorts Mr. Perfect’s family out onto the stage, as the crowd stands and applauds.

Gene Okerlund:
Afa and Sika, The Wild Samoans!!

The crowd once again lightly applauds as Melina accompanies Afa and Sika out onto the stage.

Gene Okerlund:
Gordon Solie!!

Several members of Gordon Solie’s family step out onto the stage with Raw Diva, Torrie Wilson.

Gene Okerlund:
Terry Funk!!

Ford Field cheers wildly as Terrible Terry Funk enters the arena with the beautiful Trish Stratus and waves to the crowd with a slight smile.

Gene Okerlund:
Ladies and gentlemen, one more time, the WWE Hall of Fame, class … of 2007!! Give them a round of applause!!

Once more, Ford Field gives the HOF class a nice round of applause as they all wave. We cut away.



***



Tazz:
What a night it’s been, Styles!

Joey Styles:
It’s been one hell of a night, in my estimation, the greatest night in the history of World Wrestling Entertainment. But coming up next … the big one, the World Heavyweight Championship - the 2007 Royal Rumble winner, Mr. Kennedy, takes on Batista.

Tazz:
This is gonna be a rocket buster for sure!


World Heavyweight Championship Video Package:
- At No Mercy, Batista regains the World Heavyweight Title he was forced to relinquish due to surgery, ending the nine month reign of Kurt Angle in a No Holds Barred Match.

- Soon thereafter, the “Nature Boy” Ric Flair joins up with The Animal as his manager and Batista becomes even more dominant, defeating five top superstars (Kurt Angle, The Rock, Triple H, King Booker, Finlay) in the Elimination Chamber at Armageddon and following that up by defeating Bobby Lashley at New Years Revolution

- At the Royal Rumble, Batista defeats Triple H and The Rock in a World Title match, retaining his belt.

Ric Flair:
Y’know big man, I usually would come out here and tell you how great you were last Sunday but beating Triple H for the umpteenth time just doesn’t seem worth it. Ha. The fact is, Triple H never stood a chance. The fact is, The Rock didn’t stand a chance and its about time that they, Kurt Angle, Rey Mysterio and anybody else who’s feeling froggy to realize that there is nobody - NOBODY - who can ever beat this man!! WOOO!!!!!

- Later on RR night, Mr. Kennedy wins the 30 Man Royal Rumble, last eliminating Kurt Angle.

Ric Flair:
Kennedy, you’ve got it all!! You’ve got the look, you’ve got the charisma, you can talk the talk, you can walk the walk, you can wrestle, you’re one of the brightest young stars to come around in a long time and coming from me, that’s as big of a compliment as it gets brother.

So for your own good, for the betterment of your career, for your career to take that next step, take your Royal Rumble win, take your guaranteed WrestleMania main event and … go to Monday Night Raw.

You don’t wanna blow that first big opportunity by going up against Batista, my friend. Trust me, go to Raw, wrestle Orton and whoever wins that tournament and win the WWE Championship because if you stay on SmackDown and try to wrestle Batista at WrestleMania, it only ends one of two possible ways. You get beat … or you get beat and leave in a wheelchair.

- Later that following SmackDown, Kennedy speaks.

Mr. Kennedy:
Flair said, I shouldn’t stay on SmackDown because its quite possible that Batista could beat me, hell, its quite possible that he could beat the living shit out of me at WrestleMania.

No … Flair’s right, he could. Nobody has been able to take the World Title from Batista. Not The Rock. Not Triple H. Not King Booker. Not Finlay. Not Mark Henry. Not Kurt Angle. So, why in the hell would an arrogant, loudmouth, pompous, blonde-haired asshole like myself be able to beat him?

With that said, my decision is made … and it was a pretty easy one. At WrestleMania 23, its gonna Mister Kennedy … STAYING right here on SmackDown to challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship!!

You damn right I’m staying! What makes me different Flair?! I tell ya. I fear nobody, I fear no man, I fear no Animal, I don’t fear that shaved ape we call a champ and I don’t fear a guy who can raise his eyebrow. Nobody thought I could make it on my own without JBL, but I did. Nobody thought I could beat John Cena, but I did. Nobody thought that anybody could beat Cena twice in a row, but I did. And NOBODY sure as hell thought that I would win the Royal Rumble … but … I … DID!!

The Kennedy Administration has begun. You don’t like it? Ya might as well freakin’ retire because I‘m here to stay. SAY IT LOUD … SAY IT PROUD … MMMIIISSSTTTEEERRRRRR KKKEENNNNEDYYYY!!! KEN - NA - DAY!!!

- After Batista retains the title yet again at the No Way Out, Ric Flair attempts to get into the head of Mr. Kennedy.

Ric Flair:
Batista beat Triple H THREE TIMES IN A ROW and then beat him AGAIN at the Royal Rumble!! HE CRUSHED ROCK IN THE STEEL CAGE!! Batista has come out of No Disqualification Matches, Elimination Chambers, Steel Cage Matches WITHOUT A DAMN SCRATCH!! STILL THE CHAMPION!! AND YOU THINK YOU CAN BEAT HIM?!

YOU!? A guy who hasn’t headlined a pay per view in his entire life?! A guy who got lucky by winning the Royal Rumble!? A guy who got lucky when Kurt Angle made a mistake last night?! Kid, this is the big leagues. At WrestleMania, nobody’s asking you to throw Batista over the top rope - WOOO - we’re asking you - YOU - to grab a man who’s 300 pounds, six feet six and pin his shoulders to the mat for three or to make Batista submit!!! Something that LEGENDS haven’t been able to do -- LEGENDS!! And you’re gonna do it?!

Kennedy answers without hesitation.

Mr. Kennedy:
You bet your ass I’m gonna do it.

Ric Flair:
You’re gonna win?!

Mr. Kennedy:
You damn right I’m gonna win.

Ric Flair: Just like you won at last years WrestleMania?

Kennedy rolls his eyes as Flair hits himself in the head.

Ric Flair: Oh, that’s right!! You weren’t even AT last year’s WrestleMania! So not only is this your FIRST pay per view main event, and not only is this your FIRST title match, and not only is this your FIRST WrestleMania - a place where Batista has already been and been successful -- BOTH TIMES -- but you’re gonna step into the ring with the most dominant World Heavyweight Champion OF ALL TIME!!

Kennedy seems to be losing his sense of confidence as Flair almost shakes his head in pity.

Ric Flair: You don’t have a clue what you’ve gotten yourself into.

KK holds his head down a bit, contemplating his situation it would seem.

Ric Flair: You thought WrestleMania 23 would be the greatest night of your life - a dream come true - but make no mistake about it, you are in for the worst night of your life, nothing short of a nightmare! You’ve come all this way … to bomb on the biggest stage ever in front of millions of fans.

Kennedy looks up as Flair grins from ear to ear.

Ric Flair:
(Mocking Kennedy) April 1st … Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan … MILLIONS AND MILLIONS OF FANS - WOOOOOO!! - Mister Kennedy chokes … chokes. WWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!

- The following week, Batista and Kennedy have a staredown and the differential in size and stature between the two becomes all the more evident with KK being regular height, size and weight, while Batista looks like a monster.

Mr. Kennedy:
I don’t fear Batista. I fear no man. I fear nothing. Well, that’s not true. I fear that one day I’ll either wake up and say words like “scuttlebutt” or I’ll be one of those guys who hang around FAR past their prime and stick around to kiss the ass of some shaved gorilla named Batista. Worse yet, I could end up with a million dollar body and a ten cent brain like our illustrious World Champion.

Truth is, Flair shook me a little bit last week. I can admit it. There’s no denying that. Ric Flair laid all the cards on the table. TRUTH, Batista’s a monster, who’s been completely dominant as the champion of this company and has NEVER lost a World Title match. TRUTH, I have never headlined a pay per view or had a World Title opportunity. More truth? I wasn’t even AT WrestleMania 22 last year. And do you know what all that adds up to? Do you know what it means? It adds up … to about … dick.

- The following week at the contract signing, Batista and Kennedy have a huge brawl but it’s quickly broken up.

Mr. Kennedy:
I don’t care how many title matches you’ve won, I don’t care who you’ve beaten, because it wasn’t against me. As far as I’m concerned, you’re just another hurdle, just another naysayer, another skeptic, another critic, another doubter, another IDIOT, who continues to underestimate Mr. Kennedy. But I GUARANTEE you … … (bends down and signs contract) … … that I’m leaving Ford Field, WrestleMania 23, the NEW World Heavyweight Champion!!

- The next week, Batista and Kennedy have another brawl. This one lasts a bit longer though and though Batista overpowers Kennedy on several occasions, KK manages to hang with him throughout.

Ric Flair:
You haven’t earned it, you know you haven’t earned it and when WrestleMania rolls around, you’re gonna be exposed for the overrated talent that you are. Now what do you have to say about that?

Mr. Kennedy:
Get ready to here me say it loud and you bet your ass I’m gonna say it proud! The NEW World Heavyweight Champion, MMMIIIISTTTEERRRRRRRRRRRR KENNEDY!!!!!

- Kennedy and Batista staredown from the contract signing.

- The attack from Flair and Batista two days ago, ending with Kennedy knocked out on the outside of the ring.

Ric Flair:
LOOK AT ME YOU SON OF A BITCH!!! I warned your ass!!! GO TO RAW!! THAT’S WHAT I SAID!! NOW, in two days you will have WASTED your Royal Rumble win!! YOU WILL HAVE WASTED YOUR MOMENTUM!! You will have WASTED your potential!!! You will have WASTED your promise!! Because let me guarantee you, this is as close as you will EVER - EVER -- EVER come to the World Heavyweight Championship!!!

YOU CAN’T BEAT BATISTA!! NO ONE CAN BEAT BATISTA!! AND IN TWO DAYS, YOU WILL FIND OUT JUST WHY HE’S … the World Heavyweight Champion - the GREATEST World Heavyweight Champion of all-time. See you Sunday, you dumb son of a bitch.

- Final shot of Batista raising the World Heavyweight Title over his head, letting out a roar.



***



“MMIISSTTEERRRRRRRRR KENNEDYYYYYY!!!”







“KEN - NA - DAY!!!”

***TURN UP THE TREMBLE***

The crowd goes completely wild, giving a thunderous ovation, as the #1 contender, Mr. Kennedy, steps into the arena, taking a look around at the thousands of fans jam packing this arena, before taking a deep breath and continuing on his way down the entrance ramp.


Joey Styles:
His first pay per view main event, his first World Championship match and the pressure is most definitely on for Mr. Kennedy as he does several firsts on the grandest stage of them all, WrestleMania 23. He’s loud, he’s obnoxious, he’s a loudmouth but these people love him and he’s proven himself to be one of the best on the entire roster and worthy of being in the WrestleMania main event but boy, does he have a challenge ahead of him.

Tazz:
He’s been talking about being the best since he got here about a year and a half ago. Tonight he gets the chance to prove it. Can Mr. Kennedy … Kennedy capture the most prestigious prize in the business -- can he capture the World Heavyweight Championship right here tonight?

Joey Styles:
Well, he won the Royal Rumble, eliminating huge superstar after huge superstar and managed to defeat Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle at No Way Out. And even more recently, he has shown that he’s not intimidated by The Animal. But will any of that help him capture the gold here tonight?


The crowd continues to cheer Kennedy on as his music fades and Kennedy looks around the arena.

A “Kennedy” chant starts up as KK reaches up and waits for his microphone to lower from the ceiling. It finally does, customized for this night only, “KK” symbol plastered on it. Kennedy takes a deep breath, calming down before speaking.


Mr. Kennedy:
Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is the MAIN E-FREAKING-VENT and it is for the World Heavyweight Championship!

The crowd pops in appreciation of the most prestigious championship on SmackDown! as KK nods.

Mr. Kennedy:
I weigh in tonight at absolutely astonishing 243 pounds -- yeah, I actually lost a couple of pounds; The Simon System works. Tonight, I wrestle in my FIRST pay per view main event, in my FIRST title match and you can bet your ass that I’ll be leaving, with my FIRST World Heavyweight Title!

Thunderous pop.

Mr. Kennedy:
I wrestle tonight in FORD FIIIEEELD, right here in DETROIT, MICHIGAAAAAANNNNNNN!!

Immense cheap pop.

Mr. Kennedy:
Your next World Heavyweight Champion, MIIIISSSTTTEERRRRRRRRRR … KKEENNEEDDYY!!!

The crowd pops as Kennedy walks towards the corner and climbs onto the middle turnbuckle as the crowd chants along.

Mr. Kennedy:
KEN - NA - DAY!!!

Kennedy climbs down from the turnbuckle, throwing his mic into the sky, before bouncing up and down, preparing himself for what is by far, the most important match of his career.


***I WALK ALONE***

The crowd initially pops but soon turns into big time heat as the World Heavyweight Champion, “The Animal” Dave Batista steps out into the arena and onto the stage, with the NEW Money in the Bank winner, the “Nature Boy” Ric Flair by his side, dressed in a suit. Batista sets off his huge pyro, “mowing the competition down” before walking down the ramp.


Joey Styles:
The most dominant World Heavyweight Champion in the history of SmackDown!. Batista has shown that he’s the top dog in the entire company. He defeated Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle at No Mercy in October. Batista beat five of the top superstars in the company at Armageddon in December in an Elimination Chamber Match. He then beat the impressive Bobby Lashley at New Years Revolution, the ten time World Champion Triple H at Royal Rumble and then the icon, The Rock, at No Way Out. In my opinion, it’s fair to say, that this man … is indestructible.

Tazz:
You look at that list, Styles, and I don’t like how Kennedy measures up. He’s not as strong as a Lashley, he’s not as technically sound as Kurt Angle, he doesn’t have the credentials of The Rock or Triple H. So if they couldn’t defeat this … monster … how can Mr. Kennedy?

Joey Styles:
Well -

Tazz:
Kennedy.

Joey Styles:
Well … that’s why they wrestle the matches and this is the biggest match of them all tonight.


Batista and Ric Flair step into the ring and The Animal eyes Ken Kennedy up and down before walking to the corner and climbing onto the turnbuckle, unstrapping his title and showing his World Heavyweight Championship off to the sold out crowd, letting out a roar.


Joey Styles:
Austin versus Angle, Triple H versus Rock, the Three Way Dance for the WWE Title, John Cena versus The Undertaker, this is the biggest of them all. The most prestigious belt in the business, the World Heavyweight Championship is on the line, the most dominant World Champion of the SmackDown! Era versus the 2007 Royal Rumble winner.

Tazz:
Batista versus Ken Kennedy, the main event of WrestleMania 23, here we go, take it to Tony Chimel.


Batista and Kennedy step towards the middle of the ring, coming face to face with one another as the referee gives them their instructions before they head into opposite corners.


Tony Chimel:
Ladies and gentlemen, the following match is scheduled for sixty minutes, and it is for the World Heavyweight Championship!!
(Nice pop) Introducing first … the challenger … from Green Bay, Wisconsin … weighing in tonight at 243 pounds … he is the 2007 Royal Rumble winner and a former WWE Tag Team Champion … ladies and gentlemen, MIIIISSTTERRRRRR … KEN KENNEDYYYY!!!!!

Great pop as KK lets out a smirk but keeps his attention on Batista, across the ring from him.

Tony Chimel:
And his opponent … accompanied to the ring by the “NATURE BOY” RIC FLAAAIIIRRR!!!!

WOOOOOOOO!!!!

Tony Chimel:
From Washington, D.C. … weighing in at 300 pounds, he is a former World Tag Team Champion, the 2005 Royal Rumble winner, and tonight, headlines his second WrestleMania. He is a two time World Champion, the current reigning and defending undisputed World Heavyweight Championnnnn, “THE ANIMAL” BAAAAAATISTAAAA!!!!

Tremendous heat as Batista lets out an animalistic roar while the Nature Boy applauds the World Champion from ringside. Batista hands the referee his world title belt and he and KK come face to face once again, Kennedy looking completely focused as The Animal smirks, still not quite taking Kennedy all that seriously.

The referee raises the World Title, showing it off to the crowd before handing it to the timekeeper.


Tazz:
Can you say “rocket buster”?

Joey Styles:
This one is huge. There’s been a lot of talk from both parties but the time for talk is over. Lets get our MAIN EVENT under way.


***Bell rings***





World Heavyweight Championship Match:
World Heavyweight Champion Batista(c) w/Ric Flair
vs. 2007 Royal Rumble Winner Mr. Ken Kennedy

The crowd is buzzing, starting yet another “Kennedy” chant as the World Heavyweight Champion and #1 Contender come out of their respective corners and move towards one another. Batista and Mr. Kennedy stare at one another as Styles and Tazz once more put over the huge differentials in weight, height and physique, which becomes all the more obvious with the two men face to face. KK backs up and lets out a smirk and The Animal soon follows …

The two superstars take a second before they come out of the corner, engaging in a lock up!! The two men struggle for position a bit - but it doesn’t take long until Batista shows his overwhelming power and shoves Kennedy backward, causing the RR winner to stumble backwards into the corner!! Boos fill the arena as Batista lets out a smirk, and then flexes a bit as Kennedy looks on with a somewhat awed expression on his face.

Flair laughs at ringside, clapping away as KK shakes off that bit of a blow to his self confidence and comes out of the corner, causing Big Dave and Kennedy to begin to circle one another. The Animal goes for a lock up but Kennedy ducks under his arms! Batista turns around and Kennedy leaps up - GOING FOR A SPINNING BACK KICK - but Batista BARELY moves his face out of harm’s way!! The crowd responds with shock and then pops, impressed, as Batista is now the one looking a bit miffed, with the challenger pulling out all the stops - showcasing some of his OVW/Independent scene repertoire there.

The camera cuts to the Nature Boy, who looks even more shocked by that move. Kennedy smirks, as Batista shakes off his surprise and moves back towards the center of the ring. This time, KK is the one who looks to engage in the collar and elbow tie up but Batista quickly drops down to a knee and delivers a stiff shot to the throat of Kennedy!! Kennedy stumbles around, holding his throat in pain, and The Animal goes on the hunt, measuring Kennedy up, before rocking him with a hard right hand, knocking him back into the corner. Batista, now with Kennedy in a prone position, goes to work. He hits a strong knee to his gut, before dropping to a knee and laying into the #1 contender with a strong shoulder thrust … and another … and another … and then two more devastating shoulder thrusts for more than good measure!!

Batista backs up, letting Kennedy come out of the corner holding his stomach. The champ then grabs him and lifts him up, before dropping Kennedy with a strong sidewalk slam! He hooks the near leg!

…1...
………………………
… NO!
Kennedy kicks out with relative ease, though he’s clearly in pain, holding his gut as he stumbles back up to his feet, using the ropes to pull himself up.
The Animal once again measures him up, waiting for Kennedy to straighten up. Once he does, Batista charges forward, clotheslining Kennedy over the top rope and down to the floor below! KK hit’s the protective mat in a heap and seemingly takes the heat right out of the building, with the challenger being kept in check here in the early going.

Batista attempts to follow up on Kennedy, whom makes it on to his hands and knees, but the referee stomps The Animal from leaving the ring. Outside, The Nature Boy walks over to Kennedy, taking his jacket off and wraps it around the neck of KK, choking the life out of the #1 contender!! The crowd WOOOS and boos before Flair lets go and walks around ringside as if nothing has happened. With Flair finished causing more damage, Batista easily shoves the ref out of the way, and leaves the ring.

The Animal lifts Kennedy up and delivers a nasty knee to his gut, before grabbing him and slinging him into the fan barricade!! KK grits his teeth in pain as Batista smirks, grabbing him once more and performing the process once more, this time slamming him into the ring apron!! Styles and Tazz put over Batista weakening Kennedy’s back for his devastating Spine buster/Demon Bomb combination, while the World Champion grabs Kennedy and rolls the arrogant superstar under the bottom rope, back into the ring.

Batista follows him back into the ring and lifts Kennedy back up, grabs his hand and tosses him into the ropes. KK comes back and Batista catches him in the face with a stiff back elbow, taking the challenger down! Batista tops him, putting his elbow in Kennedy’s face for extra leverage.

…1...
………………………
… NO!
Kennedy kicks out, but Batista doesn’t fret, instead, lifting the 2007 Royal Rumble winner up to his feet but KK fights back, hitting the champion with a couple of hard rights hands!! With Batista stunned, Kennedy shoots off the ropes but once he comes back, The Animal sidesteps him and throws him over the top rope … but Kennedy lands on the ring apron!!


Batista sees him on the apron and comes in but Kennedy tucks between the ropes and hits him with a sharp shoulder thrust!! Batista stumbles towards the middle of the ring, before turning around and coming back at Kennedy. KK once again goes for the shoulder thrust but this time Batista eludes the blow!! With Kennedy’s head between the ropes, Batista delivers a STIFF KICK to the side of his head, getting some groans from the audience, as Kennedy crumbles back into the ring! The Animal wastes no time, grabbing KK by his arms and dragging his prey towards the middle of the ring, dropping down and covering the number one contender, hooking the far leg!!

…1...

…………………….
…2...
… NO!
Kennedy kicks out again, and Batista sighs a bit, looking for the three count on that occasion. Batista gets back up to his feet, pulling Kennedy up with him, before tossing the platinum blond superstar through the ropes and out of the ring. The Animal gets in the referees face and once more allows Kennedy to be attacked by Naitch, who gets on the ground and begins choking KK!! Flair soon lets up and lifts Kennedy back up as well, tossing him back into the ring with the ref’s back turned. Batista stops talking to the official and focuses back on his challenger, lifting him back up to his feet … but once more, Kennedy shows his resilience, hitting Batista with a kick to the gut and then following that up with a couple of hard right hands to the side of his head!

The crowd begins to revive, feeling it as KK gains some more momentum. Kennedy hit’s the ropes, avoids an oncoming Batista clothesline, shoots off of the ropes once more, but this time Batista catches him, lifts him up and drops him with a strong POWERSLAM!!! Batista hooks Kennedy’s far leg and the ref quickly drops down for the cover!
…………………………..
…1...
…………………..

…2...
…………………………..
…….. NO!
Kennedy kicks out! Flair yells at Batista to finish him, as KK rolls onto his stomach and crawls over towards the ropes, using them to pull himself up. The Animal doesn’t give him a chance a rest, instead, hurling him into the corner and going back to the biting shoulder thrusts in the corner, once more working over Kennedy’s midsection! Batista backs up, measuring Kennedy up before charging in, looking for a clothesline, but Kennedy quickly moves out of the way and the champion hit’s the turnbuckle!!

Kennedy quickly backs up before delivering a stiff knee lift, driving it right into the back of Batista! KK then spins him around, grabs his hands and goes to shoot him into the opposite corner but Batista counters the Irish whip and sends KK in!! Batista charges into the corner but Kennedy catches him with a stiff elbow - a receipt for a little earlier, and causes The Animal to stumble back towards the middle of the ring!

Kennedy comes out of the corner and Batista throws a wild clothesline, which Kennedy avoids, grabs the champion, lifts him up, and drops with a strong back suplex!! Kennedy struggles back up to his feet and once he gets there, he turns to see The Animal ALREADY BACK UP!! Flair smiles wildly, clapping away as Batista intensely mouths “bring it, motherfucker!”. Kennedy shakes off his shock and does just that, hitting Batista with a couple of right hands before shooting off of the ropes. He comes back and The Animal looks for a back elbow, which Kennedy avoids, waits for Batista to turn back around and Kennedy leaps up, and HITS THE SPINNING BACK KICK HE WENT FOR EARLIER!!! Batista hit’s the canvas and Kennedy quickly runs over and tops him, going for his first cover of the match up!
…………………………..
…1...
…………………..

…2...
………………………..
… NO!
Batista kicks out, shaking the cobwebs loose after that strong kick from Mr. Kennedy. The number one contender walks out onto the apron and then climbs up to the top turnbuckle as Batista begins to get back up to a vertical base. Kennedy leaps off the top … but Batista catches him on the way down, applying a BEARHUG!!!

Kennedy squirms in pain as Batista wraps his large arms around his midsection, attempting to squeeze every bit of breath out of the challenger as he possibly can. A “KENNEDY!” chant starts up as KK doesn’t plan on staying in the hold for long, almost instantaneously attempting to get the hell out of the hold, boxing Batista’s ears!! The Animal lets go of the hold, grabbing at his head in pain! Kennedy grabs Batista by the hand and shoots him into the corner, charges in and delivers a strong clothesline, causing Batista to slump down, with his head resting against the bottom turnbuckle.

KK then begins to “face wash” Batista, taking his right boot and raking it across the face of the World Heavyweight Champion!! Kennedy lets out a smirk before yelling out “MMMIIISSTTTEERRRR KENNEDY!!!!” to which the crowd responds in kind to. Mr. Kennedy then shoots off of the ropes parallel to The Animal, comes back and delivers a MIGHTY KICK RIGHT TO HIS FACE!!! KK and the crowd simultaneously finish off with “KENNEDY!” before Kennedy drags him out of the corner and covers the champion, hooking the far leg for extra leverage!
…………………………..
…1...
…………………..

…2...
…………………………..

…….. NO!
Batista kicks out once more! Kennedy gets off of him and The Nature Boy jumps onto the apron, screaming at KK! Kennedy charges at Flair but Naitch quickly jumps down from the apron but the ever so quick distraction allows Batista to roll to the outside of the ring. KK follows him to the outside as Batista takes himself a walk, heading up the entrance ramp. The ref doesn’t even both with the ten count - the Mania main event isn’t ending with a count out - as Kennedy follows Batista up the entrance ramp.

KK grabs Batista’s shoulder and The Animal clocks him with a hard shot to the head and sends Kennedy on his back on the steel ramp, playing possum. Batista smirks and lifts Kennedy back up to his feet as the crowd boos. The Animal tucks KK over his arm, and then flings the challenger’s left arm over him, before lifting him up and dropping him onto the STEEL RAMP WITH A VERTICAL SUPLEX!!! Kennedy convulses in much pain as the champion smirks, rising up to his feet.

The ref tells Batista to get him back into the ring while The Animal lifts Kennedy back up to his feet, bringing him down the ramp and back towards ringside, before tossing him under the ropes and back into the ring. Batista climbs back into the ring and raises his hands into the air, giving the thumbs up, before turning it upside down, signaling the end of the match up, as the crowd gives some tremendous heat to the champ.

Batista lifts Kennedy up to a vertical base and gives him a couple of slaps, much to the dismay of the crowd. The ref gets in Batista’s face and tells him to cut it out. Batista shows no respect to the official either, takes his hand and shoves the referee into the corner with serious force. In the corner, the ref attempts to shake off the blow and doesn’t see Kennedy drop down to a knee and HITS BATISTA WITH A HUGE LOW BLOW!!!
The crowd delivers a huge ovation as Kennedy gets back up to his feet and DROPS THE ANIMAL WITH A DDT!!! Flair watches on in dismay as Kennedy covers Batista!! The referee quickly turns around and counts the cover.
………………………………....
…1...
……………………….
……………….
…2...
…………………………
………………..
…………
NO!
Batista just gets his shoulder up, not ready to hand over his World Title just yet!! Kennedy gets up, clearly frustrated and grabs a leg of The Animal and lets out a “WOOOO” to a huge ovation! Flair goes nuts at ringside, running around, jumping up and down, getting a smile from Kennedy. KK then gets ready to lock in the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK -- but Batista takes his boot and shoves Kennedy off with authority, sending the number one contender tumbling between the ropes and out of the ring!!

The ref checks on Batista as ONCE AGAIN Flair gets ready to do some damage and interfere in this match up. He walks towards Kennedy, grabs him by his hair and tries to lift him up … but Kennedy catches him with a LOW BLOW and Flair goes down!! The crowd cheers as Kennedy now gets an evil gleam in his eye. KK walks over and takes the top part of the STEEL STEPS off of the base!!! Kennedy then waits … and waits … and waits for The Nature Boy to get back up to his feet, which he eventually does and Kennedy charges, DRILLING HIM IN THE SKULL WITH THE STEPS!!!!

Kennedy drops the steel steps and takes a second to stare around at the massive crowd who continue to chant his name. the referee tells him to get back into the ring as Kennedy stares down at Flair, whose been BUSTED WIDE OPEN (nobody bleeds like the best ever). Kennedy climbs back onto the apron, before he decides to climb up onto the top turnbuckle. Batista quickly gets back up to his feet and hits the ropes, which causes Kennedy to eventually lose his balance and straddle the top turnbuckle!!!

Batista attempts to take full advantage of the predicament that he’s put the number one contender in, as he climbs the turnbuckle and gets Kennedy ready for a SUPERPLEX -- but Kennedy fights it, hitting The Animal with a couple of shots to the gut, before moving those hard right handed blows to the head of the champion, causing Batista to lose his balance a bit but he still manages to hold onto the ropes!! Kennedy grabs his head and delivers a strong head butt … and then another … and then one more … and finally, Batista loses his balance and falls down to the canvas to a strong pop!!!

Kennedy then climbs to the top rope as the crowd rises to its feet. KK takes a second before leaping off of the top rope, LOOKING FOR THE KENTON BOMB … AND HITS IT!!!!!! The audience goes ape shit as Kennedy holds the back of his neck in pain, before topping Batista, hooking the far leg!!

…1...
…………………..………..

……………
…2...

……………………….
THRE--
!!!!!!!!!!!!!NO!!!!!!!!!!!!

BATISTA GETS THE SHOULDER UP!!!

That takes most of the air out of the crowd before a “BULLLL - SHIT” chant starts up. Kennedy looks at the referee in complete shock, holding up three fingers but the ref tells him that it was only a two. Kennedy slams his hands against the canvas in frustration before he decides to get back up to his feet and once more climbs onto the apron.

KK again climbs to the top turnbuckle, gets set and leaps off, GOING FOR ANOTHER KENTON BOMB … BUT THIS TIME BATISTA ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY!!! Somewhat impressively, Kennedy rolls through the move, Eddie Guerrero-esque, as Batista gets back up to his feet!! Kennedy charges in and Batista LIFTS HIM UP, HITTING HIS DEVASTATING SPINEBUSTER!!! Batista flops back down to the canvas, side by side with Kennedy, as the ref stares down at the both of them and begins his knockout count.
…One…
…Two…
…Three…
…Four…
…Five…
…Six…
… Kennedy gets onto his hands and knees …
…Seven…
… Kennedy gets all the way up as Batista uses the ropes to pull himself up …
Kennedy charges in again … AND AGAIN BATISTA PLANTS KENNEDY WITH A SPINEBUSTER!!!! This time though, Batista gets an adrenaline rush, violently shaking the ropes as the crowd showers the World Heavyweight Champion in heat. Batista walks over towards the fallen Kennedy and lifts the Wisconsinite in between his legs - looking for the DEMON BOMB!!!

Batista muscles Kennedy up and gets him into position!!! - but Kennedy swings away on the face of Batista with great desperation, knowing that the match is over the second he hits that canvas!! The Animal loses his balance, stumbling backward and BOTH Kennedy and Batista take a tumble OVER THE TOP ROPE to the floor below!!!

A bloody Flair watches on, leaning against the apron as both Batista and Kennedy struggle back up to their feet after spending several seconds on the ground. Both men finally get back up to a vertical base and The Animal moves in, but Kennedy catches him with a drop toe hold and BATISTA’S FACE SLAMS INTO THE BASE OF THE STEEL STEPS!!!

The challenger doesn’t stop there, grabbing the head of Batista and slamming it into the STEEL AGAIN … AND AGAIN … AND AGAIN … AND AGAIN … AND AGAIN!!!! The crowd erupts as Batista lies motionless on the steps. Kennedy takes a bit of a walk, getting his breath back before grabbing a now BLOODY Batista and tossing him back into the ring. Kennedy climbs back onto the apron … …



LOW BLOW!!!!

The bloody ‘Nature Boy’ Ric Flair hits Kennedy with a low blow, out of the view of the referee!! Kennedy lays against the ropes before Batista gets back up to his feet, blood running down his face, and grabs Kennedy, bringing him over the top rope and back into the ring. Batista grabs Kennedy and tucks him between his legs as the crowd begins to boo, fearing that the end is near. The Animal takes a second, wiping the blood out of his face, before lifting Kennedy up, LOOKING FOR THE DEMON BOMB … AND HITS IT!!!!!

Kennedy hits the canvas with force, bounces and then rolls a bit. Both superstars lay on their back, completely worn out from the match, which is compounded for Batista due to his blood loss. Finally, Batista rolls over and gets his back onto the chest of Kennedy, reaching back and grabbing the near leg for just a bit of extra leverage!!

…1…

………………………..
…2…

…………………………….

-THREE-
NO!!!!
KENNEDY HAS HIS HAND ON THE BOTTOM ROPE!!! The crowd completely erupts as Batista puts his hands on his bloody face, in a state of shock. Outside of the ring, Naitch kicks Tony Chimel out of his seat and grabs the STEEL CHAIR, sliding it into the ring!! Kennedy slowly begins to move as Batista grabs the chair!! The Animal rears the chair back … but the ref takes it from him … almost somewhat easily. He reprimands Batista before going to get rid of the chair. With the ref distracted, FLAIR SLIDES BATISTA THE MITB BRIEFCASE!!! Kennedy turns around and The Animal takes a swing but KK kicks him in the gut, causing Batista to drop the briefcase!!!

Kennedy picks it up and DRILLS BATISTA RIGHT IN HIS BLOODY FACE WITH THE BRIEFCASE!!! The crowd erupts into a huge pop as The Animal goes down and Kennedy falls down on top of him in a heap while the ref finishes up with the chair and slides into the ring, counting the cover!!

…1...

………………………………...
…2...

……………………

THREE
NO!!!!!!!
MY GOD, BATISTA GETS HIS SHOULDER UP!!! Styles and Tazz put over the indestructibility of Batista as Kennedy looks around in complete shock. Sensing that the match up is jeopardy, THE NATURE BOY SLIDES INTO THE RING as Kennedy gets back up to his feet!!! The blood-spattered Flair charges at Kennedy and throws a right but Kennedy blocks it and hit’s a couple rights of his own. KK then kicks Naitch in the gut before tossing him over the top rope … but Flair holds onto the top rope and lands on his feet on the apron!!!

Kennedy picks up the Money In The Bank briefcase and swings it, DRILLING FLAIR WITH IT, sending Naitch off of the apron!!! Flair lies motionless as Kennedy turns around -- AND GETS DRILLED WITH A SPEAR BY BATISTA, CUTTING HIM IN HALF!!! BATISTA WITH THE COVER!!!

…1...

……………………………
…2...

…………………….
NO!
KENNEDY KICKS OUT!!!
Ford Field explodes into a booming ovation; Kennedy not ready to give in just yet. The Animal struggles back up to his feet, bringing KK back up with him. Batista pulls back and delivers a huge blow to the head of Kennedy, knocking him back into the corner. The World Heavyweight Champion then mounts the turnbuckle, ready to rain down the right hands on Kennedy, but the number one contender grabs his legs and walks out of the corner, before he dumps him, causing Batista’s face to slam against the top turnbuckle!!!

Kennedy pulls Batista out of the corner and lifts him onto his shoulder, looking for A KAMIKAZE -- but Batista fights out of it, hitting Kennedy with hard shots to the face, causing the Wisconsinite to stumble back into the corner, with Batista still on his shoulders!! Batista continues to fight wildly, trying to escape but Kennedy shows some impressive strength, getting himself set on the bottom ropes … before muscling himself up to the middle one!!!

Batista continues to fight, hitting a shot to the gut as KENNEDY LOOKS FOR THE GREEN BAY PLUNGE -- but Batista finally gets free, using his feet to shove off the turnbuckle, towards the middle of the ring, then back onto his feet and back on solid ground - behind Kennedy!!!
Batista quickly grabs a SLEEPER HOLD on Kennedy -- but Mister Kennedy quickly runs forward, leaps up, springboards off of the top rope and falls back on Batista, into a variation of a ROLL UP - SHADES OF BRET-PIPER FROM MANIA!!!!

KENNEDY HOLDS ONTO THE COVER FOR DEAR LIFE AS BATISTA KICKS HIS LEGS WILDLY!!!!

…1…

……..……………….
…2…

……………..………………..

!!!!!THREE!!!!!
Winner: AND NEW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, MR. KENNEDY at 19:10


BATISTA KICKS OUT - BUT IT’S TOO LATE AND WE HAVE A NEW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION!! The referee raises the hand of Mr. Kennedy to a monstrous ovation as KK looks around in a bit of shock.


Tazz:
HOLY SHIT!! … Pardon my language, but Mr. Kennedy just pinned Batista!!

Joey Styles:
Mr. Kennedy is the new champion!! And for the first time in his career, Batista has been pinned to lose the World Heavyweight Championship!! From Triple H to The Rock to Kurt Angle to Bobby Lashley to King Booker, nobody has been able to pin The Animal down for a three but this loudmouth Mr. Kennedy has done it on the grandest stage of them all!!!

Tazz:
Every SmackDown title on the line tonight changed hands, but none bigger than this victory here tonight. MIIISTERRRR KENNEDY … KENNEDY is the new World Heavyweight Champion!


The referee retrieves the World Title and brings it to Mr. Kennedy who smiles as he stares at the championship. The ref then raises his hand up and Kennedy raises the World Title up to another great ovation as the bloody Batista watches in the corner in distress, soon joined by the blood-splattered Ric Flair.
KK calls for a microphone and soon gets one handed to him as his music dies down.


Mr. Kennedy:
And the winner of the match … and NEEEEEEEWWWW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIOOONNNNN-

Flair and Batista charge at KK, but Kennedy quickly rolls out of the ring, backing up the entrance ramp as he speaks.

Mr. Kennedy:
MIISTEEEEEERRRRRRRR KENNEDYYYYYY!!!!

KK looks at his World Title smiling, before speaking up once more, with the fans chanting along and Batista & Flair glaring angrily.

Mr. Kennedy:
KEN - NA - DAY!!!!

Kennedy tosses the mic down and raises the World Heavyweight Championship up to another great ovation.


Joey Styles:
The night has lived up to ALL of the hype - the greatest night in the history of sports entertainment. Randy Orton retained the WWE Championship!! The Rock finally defeated Triple H!! Kurt Angle managed to beat Stone Cold Steve Austin!! The Undertaker fended off the dominant John Cena!! Mickie James and Carlito retained their titles!! Mick Foley returned!! Ric Flair is Mr. Money in the Bank!! We’ve got a new United States Champion, a new Cruiserweight Champion, and NOW, Mr. Kennedy-

Tazz:
KEN - NA - DAY!!

Joey Styles:
Is the NEW World Heavyweight Champion, defeating the UNDEFEATABLE Batista!! From Ford Field, signing off for Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler, I’m Joey Styles, this is Tazz, good night, everybody!!


Fade out with a quick shot of Batista and Flair bleeding with angry faces, before cutting back to the New World Heavyweight Champion whom stares at his title at the top of the entrance ramp.


***The closing video plays, recapping the entire event over Ladies and Gentlemen from beginning to end***


“Ladies and gentlemen please”
Shots of Batista, Orton, Edge, Michaels, Kennedy, Austin, Rock, Hunter, Angle, Undertaker and Cena before we get the entrances of Carlito and JBL.

“Would you bring your attention to me?”
JBL hits a power bomb on Carlito, but Carly kicks out

“For a feast for your eyes to see”
Lito ducks the Clothesline From Hell and hits the Back Stabber for the pin


“An explosion of catastrophe”
Carlito spit’s the apple into JBL’s face


“Like nothing you’ve ever seen before”
The entrances of the MITB competitors

“Watch closely as I open this door”
Matt Hardy’s Twist of Fate on RVD off of the ladder

“Your jaws will be on the floor”
Hardy taking the sick bump off of the ladder out of the ring and through the table

“After this you’ll be begging for more”
Doane missing the Guillotine Leg Drop off of the ladder and goes through the table

“Welcome to the show”
Flair captures the briefcase

“Please come inside”
Daniels and Mysterio make their entrances

“Ladies and gentlemen”
Daniels taking out Rey with a suicide dive

“Boom”
Mysterio hitting the West Coast Pop


“Do you want it?”
Rey picks up the win, countering the Angel’s Wings

“Boom”
Mysterio celebrates with Chavo, Malenko, and Sabin as Daniels holds his head in disappointment

“Do you need it?”
Shot of all four tag teams involved in the eight man tag


“Boom”
Quick clips of the explosive closing sequence


“Let me hear it”
Benjamin hitting the T-Bone off of the top for the pin


“Ladies and gentlemen”
Lashley flies over the top rope and takes the whole lot out


“Boom”
Booker hitting the Bookend on Finlay


“Do you want it?”
Regal hitting a double arm suplex on Booker


“Boom”
Finlay hitting the Celtic Cross on Lashley


“Do you need it?”
Lashley planting Finlay with the Dominator for the victory


“Boom”
Mickie sends Vickie crashing into the steel steps with a drop toe hold


“Let me hear it”
Victoria hitting a moonsault


“Ladies and gentlemen”
Mickie hitting the Mickie DDT for only a two count


“Ladies and gentlemen good evening”
Mickie evacuating but being cut off by Trish Stratus and Gail Kim


“You’ve seen that seeing is believing”
Beth Phoenix showing up and costing Victoria the victory; Mickie giving Vickie the Goodnight Kiss & Kick before pinning her


“Your ears and your eyes will be bleeding”
Cena and Undertaker making their entrances


“Please check to see if you’re still breathing”
Cena hitting the FU but Taker kicking out and sitting up


“Hold tight cause the show is not over”
Taker hitting the Chokeslam but Cena kicking out


“If you will please move in closer”
Cena hitting another FU but Taker kicking out again

“You're about to be bowled over”
Cena locking in the STFU and thinking he has the victory only to have Taker get his foot on the rope

“By the wonders you’re about to behold here”
Taker finishing him off with a Tombstone

“Welcome to the show (welcome to the show)”
Austin and Angle making their entrances

“Please come inside”
Angle hitting Belly to Belly on outside

“Ladies and gentlemen”
Angle hitting the German on exposed turnbuckle and busting Austin open


“Boom”
Austin fighting back incredibly

“Do you want it?”
The two exchange finishing maneuvers and each other’s finishing maneuver


“Boom”
Angle locks in the Ankle Lock and Austin passes out from the pain and blood loss


“Do you need it?”
Angle celebrating and then Austin toasting the crowd

“Boom”
Rock Bottom from Rock to Hunter through announce table

“Let me hear it”
Pedigree onto the bloody Rock onto chair

“Ladies and gentlemen”
H hitting Rock with sledgehammer shots

“Boom”
Rock comes back to win it with a Rock Bottom, sledgehammer shot and People’s Elbow on chair

“Do you want it?”
Rock celebrating


“Boom”
Stephanie and Coach leading their troops to battle


“Do you need it?”
Slugfest between the two monster teams


“Boom”
Henry turns on Kane and Raw picks up the win


“Let me hear it”
Mick Foley returns and cleans house of the monsters


“Welcome to the show”
Michaels, Edge and Orton making their entrances


“We're glad you came along”
HBK’s leap of faith from the top onto Edge and Orton through the announce table

“Please come inside”
Michaels is eliminated via Spear


“Ladies and gentlemen”
Orton and Edge’s fabulous exchanges of moves late in the match


“Boom”
Edge kicks out of the RKO

“Do you want it?”
Orton kicks out of the Spear


“Boom”
Orton picks up a miracle win with a Super RKO, capitalizing on Edge’s high risk blunder


“Do you need it?”
Randy celebrating with championship


“Boom”
Shots of Hall of Famers

“Let me hear it”
Batista and Mr. Kennedy making their entrances

“Ladies and gentlemen”
Kennedy earns Batista’s respect early on with a close call kick


“Boom”
Kennedy busts Flair and Batista open


“Do you want it?”
Batista kicks out of the Kenton Bomb

“Boom”
Batista comes back with a couple of Spinebusters and a Demon Bomb but KK grabs the ropes

“Do you need it?”
Batista kicks out of a shot from the briefcase

“Boom”
Kennedy kicks out of a devastating Spear

“Let me hear it”
Kennedy rolls Batista up for the victory and the WORLD TITLE win

“…”
Clips of all the winners and then longer shots of the major winners of the “Five Main Events” of the night - Angle, Rock, Kennedy, Orton and Taker


“Ladies and gentlemen”
Final shot of Mr. Kennedy holding up the World Heavyweight Championship.

END OF MOTHER FUCKING SHOW

:D
 
#1,339 ·
Re: 2007 & Beyond - The Second Fucking Coming

DC said:
What happened to him/The Monsters?
Haas turned them down...and he's been fucked ever since.

Invincible said:
...threatening Coach with McMahon was just cheap.
o rly?
Invincible said:
I couldn't care less tbh but from what I've seen in your BTB so far, everything means something.
Danke schoen for the reviews. SMACKDOWN TIME~!


Friday Night SmackDown! - August 3rd, 2007; Phoenix, Arizona

“…whether it was on purpose or not … it’s your … fault.”



The Man


After the video package and pyro, our commentators, Joey Styles, Tazz and Michael Cole, welcome us to the program, hyping up the SmackDown that takes place tonight, with Kid Kash taking on Chris Sabin to crown a number one contender for the CW Title, United States Champion Matt Hardy in action, and The Rock taking on Jeff Hardy, a week after Rock laid Mr. Kennedy, the World Heavyweight Champion, with The Rock Bottom. But up next, The New Breed takes on Chavo Guerrero and Rey Mysterio.

1 - Rey Mysterio|Chavo Guerrero vs. The New Breed w/Booker T|Sharmell

Following last week’s brawl, both Chavo and Mysterio are out for revenge this week, moving at a rapid pace, and looking to use their advantages to take out their younger opponents. The two veterans control the opening few minutes, but it’s no surprise to see the youth and power advantage of The New Breed help them retake control of the contest. The finish comes when the match completely breaks down, and the numbers advantage of the heels allows Sharmell to distract the referee, which lets Booker enter the ring and drill Mysterio with a SCISSORS KICK!! Booker rolls out of the ring, allowing Elijah, the legal man, to pin Mysterio!

Winner - The New Breed via pin fall at 7:18.

The New Breed, Booker T and Sharmell soon make their way back up the entrance ramp, after stealing their biggest win in a long while. Inside the ring, Chavo checks on an upset Mysterio, who struggles back up to his feet.

Michael Cole: Booker T and The New Breed STEAL one here tonight from Chavo and Mysterio!!

Tazz: Doesn’t matter how they got the win, they got it, but you gotta wonder what was the deal with Booker calling them to the back last week. Maybe he has bigger plans?

Joey Styles:
That was last week, this week, The People’s Champion and number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam will be in action tonight, taking on Jeff Hardy. But up next, The Rock speaks!

{Commercials}​

*Backstage - Ext. of GM’s Office*​
‘The World’s Strongest Man’ Mark Henry and Teddy Long stand outside the office, with T-Lo banging away on the door like a madman. Soon enough, Maryse, Stephanie McMahon’s assistant, opens the door, but quickly steps outside and closes it behind her.

Teddy Long: What the hell is the meaning of this!?

Maryse:
What meaning?

Teddy Long: The meaning of the World’s Strongest Man, the most dominant wrestler on the planet, not being on SmackDown since the Great American Bash.

Maryse:
Only been one week since American Bash.

Teddy Long:
You crackas and your excuses crack me up. I guess the brotha’ has just a little too much color, huh?

Maryse: I don’t know what you me-

Teddy Long: Mark Henry, Da Silvaback, the king of the SmackDown ring, didn’t get a spot on SmackDown last week, but yet, the Irish bastard got a shot AT A SHOT, and every otha’ cracka’ on the show got a spot. Now, where in the hell is the ‘Billion Dollar Racist’ Stephanie?

Maryse: She had business to attend.

Teddy Long: (Scoffs) Probably making sure one of her white superstars are all comfortable.

Maryse: Anything else I can help with?

~ Long and Henry angrily glare at Maryse, before turning around, and angrily head down the hallway. Once the two are out of sight, Maryse quickly re-enters the room.


*Backstage - Interview Area*​
Steve Romero stands by, microphone in hand.

Steve Romero: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time … and number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam … The Rock!

~ The crowd lets out a thunderous mixed reaction, leaning towards cheers, as ‘The Great One’ The Rock steps into screenshot, dressed to compete, with one of his black “Hit It Hard” T-shirts on top, and his shades on.

Steve Romero: Rock, last week on SmackDown-

The Rock:
Please don’t tell The Rock that you’re gonna do the whole tired, repetitive, worn-out (puts on whiny voice) “Why, Rocky, why? Why did you hit Mr. Kennedy with The Rock Bottom? Why did you slap him? Why am I so stupid?” (stops)

~ Rocky adjusts his shades.

The Rock:
The Rock doesn’t know the answer to the last question, but the Rock’ll tell ya this. This isn’t a game to The Rock … the World Heavyweight Championship on the line … SummerSlam, one of the biggest pay-per-views of the year … millions of fans around the globe gonna be watchin’ … gonna be one of the most watched pay-per-views of ALL-TIME … every single news outlet focused in on the Continental Airlines Arena come August 26th to see the most electrifying man in sports AND entertainment; it’s gonna be big … and it’s gonna be big … because of The Rock.

~ Mixed reaction for The Great One, showing a bit more arrogance than he has in recent memory.

The Rock: And if that blond-haired piece of monkey crap thought that The Rock was gonna just bend down and kiss his sack like everybody else around this place, he got everything he deserved last week, and got a whole lot more comin’!

~ More boos for The People’s Champion ring out, though he’s still clearly got his contingent cheering for him.

Steve Romero: But, Rock, the fans in-

The Rock: (Whiny voice) “But Rock. But Rock. B- b- b- But Rock.” (stops) Do The Rock a favor, go play in traffic.

~ Rocky snatches the microphone, and shoves poor Romero out of screenshot. Rock turns toward the camera.

The Rock: Mr. Kennedy, The Rock knows you’re watchin’ The Rock right now. Yeah, you’re probably breathin’ all over your monitor, just wantin’ a piece of The Rock, needing to get at The Rock! Every fiber in your BEING is telling you, “Hey, Kenny, go get The Rock!” Well … let The Rock remind you of this one important fact … you ain’t nothin’.

~ Crowd boos the Brahma Bull, as Rock adjusts his shades.

The Rock:
You’re still a kid, still a baby in the business. This is your first year on top. The Rock’s been doin’ this for years! Big matches for years! Big environments for years! What is this, The Rock’s 23rd SummerSlam or something crazy like that? So don’t you worry that pretty little head of yours about coming after The Rock, or revenge or payback, or any of that. All you worry about is three very important things. ONE … show up to SummerSlam. TWO … bring the World Heavyweight Championship with you, and number THREE and most importantly … remind The Rock to whoop that monkey ass all up and down that arena!

~ Split reaction from the crowd; a “ROC-KY” chant looks to get started, but Rock quickly talks over it.

The Rock: IF YA SMELLLLLL-LA-LA-LA-LA-LAOOOO … WHAT THE ROCK IS … COOKIN’!

~ The crowd lets out another mixed reaction, and The Great One raises The People’s eyebrow before heading out of screenshot.

{Commercials}​
2 - Finlay vs. Simon Dean

Poor Simon Dean continues to be used as one of the key fall guys on Friday nights, and it doesn’t change here. The Fighting Irishman gets to get his face on television, beating the crap out of Dean in a glorified squash match, though Dean does manage to get in a comedy spot or two. The finish sees Finlay finish off Simon with the Celtic Cross to get the three count

Winner - Finlay via pin fall at 6:02.

Finlay celebrates … but we get a quick shot of a backstage locker room, as BOOKER T talks with TEDDY LONG, each man shaking their head at the on-goings.

*Backstage - Hallway*​
‘The Animal’ Batista, dawned in a spiffy black suit and his trademark shades, walks down a corridor. With his right hand wrapped up, a product of last week’s mirror incident, Batista gets to his destination - the GM’s office - and bangs on it with his left hand. After several knocks, Maryse once more opens the door, quickly exits it, and closes it. Batista looks her up and down with a smirk, drinking it all in {“Big Smooth” Dave Batista}, before finally looking at her face.

Batista: Where’s Stephanie?

Maryse:
She had business to attend to.

~ Batista takes his shades off, letting out a full-blown smile.

Batista:
Move … now.

~ Maryse is foreign, not stupid, and does what she’s told. The Animal grabs the knob, and pushes in, and his eyes immediately lock on to Stephanie McMahon sitting at her desk. Maryse follows Dave in.

Maryse: Sorry, Ms. McMahon.

Stephanie McMahon:
You can’t watch a door either?

Batista:
We need to talk.

Stephanie McMahon:
(Sighs) Dave, I’ve got a busy night tonight. My father is stopping in, we’ve got several things to discuss, and the last thing I need is to have whiny, bitchy wrestlers coming in here and demanding things that they can’t have.

~ Batista angrily scrunches his face up.

Stephanie McMahon:
No offense.

Batista:
Look, this is important.

~ Steph lets out a long sigh, before looking up at Batista.

Batista: After all of the money I’ve made you, and everybody else walking these halls…

Stephanie McMahon:
No need for the guilt trip. What is it?

Batista: I need time on the mic … in the ring.

Stephanie McMahon: Ugh, can’t you just do an interview?

Batista:
No.

~ Stephanie’s face is now the one that scrunches up, before she lets out another sigh.

Stephanie McMahon: Fine.

Batista: And-

Stephanie McMahon: “And?” Are you serious?

Batista:
And … I want the final slot.

~ Stephanie begins laughing.

Stephanie McMahon:
Dave, I’m not moving my whole show around, because you have a huge ego and want the main event spot to talk. So, unless you’re going out to that ring to call out Ric freakin’ Flair, I’m afraid I’m gonna have to say no.

~ Batista continues to look at Steph, who notices the look, and eventually stops chuckling.

Stephanie McMahon: Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh. (Steph lets out her trademark smirk) I was wondering how long it would take you to start blaming him.

Batista: I’m not blaming anybody. Look, do I have the spot or not!?

~ Steph looks up at Batista, who’s face remains stone like as he stares at the Billion Dollar Princess. Stephanie eventually gives The Animal a bit of a nod, and Batista turns and leaves in a flash.

Stephanie McMahon: You’re welcome.

{Commercials}​

*Backstage - Interview Area*​
Josh Matthews stands by, microphone in hand.

Josh Matthews:
Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time … the World Heavyweight Champion … Ken Kennedy!

~ The crowd lets out a strong ovation as Mr. Kennedy steps into screenshot, dressed in a “Talk Loud, Hit Harder” T-shirt and a pair of sweats, title belt on his right shoulder. KK wears a scowl as he impatiently waits for Matthews to ask his question, chomping away on his gum.

Mr. Kennedy: Get to it, Romero.

Josh Matthews:
It’s, uh, Josh. Josh Matthews.

Mr. Kennedy:
Whatever, Johnny. Gimme the question.

Josh Matthews:
Well, last week on SmackDown, you managed to defeat The Nature Boy Ric Flair in the main event. But after the match, you were on the receiving end of not only a SLAP from The Rock … but a Rock Bottom as well. Wi-

Mr. Kennedy: Thanks for the recap, but I think I’ll take it from here.

~ KK takes the mic from Matthews.

Mr. Kennedy: Unlike usual, I don’t have much to say on the subject, but will say this. Rock, we coulda’ did this the right way; four weeks of talkin, four weeks of hype, four weeks of training, four weeks of respect, four weeks of simply getting ready for one of the biggest matches in SummerSlam history. Instead, ya slapped me in the face, ya kicked me in the face, and ya hit me with The Rock Bottom.

~ Crowd gives a mixed reaction, leaning toward heat.

Mr. Kennedy: So now … I owe ya.

~ Crowd cheers

Mr. Kennedy: And you can bet your ass that I’ll cash in. Might be this week, might be next, but it’s a comin’ … or my name isn’t… Mr. Kennedy … Kennedy.

~ The crowd finishes chanting along, while Kennedy angrily tosses the mic back to Matthews, and heads off camera, receiving a strong ovation.

*Back to ringside*​
3 - Kid Kash vs. Chris Sabin - #1 Contender’s Match for the Cruiserweight Championship.

Despite Kash becoming more and more “face-like” in recent weeks, The Notorious K.I.D. plays the pseudo-heel against Sabin. Kash and Sabin are relatively evenly matched throughout the entirety of the offense, with Kash keeping Sabin grounded, until the younger superstar takes to the air. The finish comes when Kash looks for the Double Jump Moonsault, but Sabin moves out of the way, and Kash crashes and burns! Both men get up, and Sabin looks for the Cradle Shock, but Kash fights off his shoulders, and looks for the Dead Level, but Sabin fights out of it! Sabin kicks him in the gut, tucks him, and looks for a power bomb, but The Notorious K.I.D. flips out of it, before drilling Sabin with the MONEY MAKER!!! Kash then quickly covers him for the victory.

Winner - Kash via pin fall at 7:29.

The crowd gives the ECW alumnus a mixed reaction, as he gets up to his feet, face showing determination, as he motions that the Cruiserweight Title will soon be his.

{Commercials}​
Joey Styles: Welcome back to Friday Night SmackDown, ladies and gentlemen, and as most of you know, the card for the biggest party of the Summer, SummerSlam, has already begun to take place.

Tazz: Absolutely. Matt Hardy defending the United States Title against The Fallen Angel. The Rock taking on Mr. Kennedy for the World Heavyweight Championship in the main event. And of course, the rematch of the match of the YEAR, in my estimation; The Carolina Connection defend the WWE Tag Team Titles against The Hooligans with a special stipulation!

Michael Cole: But we don’t know what the stipulation is; at least not yet. But next week, both The Carolina Connection and The Hooligans will be in the building, and we expect Shelton Benjamin and Gregory Helms to tell us what kind of match the two teams will be going at it in.

Joey Styles:
I can not wait for that. The two of them completely tore the roof down at the Great American Bash in a thirty minute classic. No telling what’s in store for SummerSlam!

*Backstage - GM’s Office*​
Stephanie McMahon sits in her office, back to the door & the desk, gazing out the window … before she hears someone enter, and spins around.

???:
Gonna be a helluva night come the 24th.

~ The camera pans over to show
VINCE MCMAHON standing before her, dark suit.

Mr. McMahon:
The Carolina Connection versus The Hooligans. Daniels, Hardy. Kennedy, Rock for the World Title. Tremendous card.

Stephanie McMahon: Couldn’t agree more.

Mr. McMahon: Plus with Raw’s card - Mickie, Victoria Two; Summer Games Gauntlet; TLC with Orton and Edge - oh, I can’t wait.

Stephanie McMahon: (Rolls eyes) Have a seat, dad.

~ McMahon has a seat directly across from his daughter, who sits behind her desk, waiting for Vinnie Mac to get to business. McMahon lets a slight smile.

Mr. McMahon:
All right, onto business. I know it’s busy around here tonight, but I’ve been busy all week and this morning, so this was the only time I could sit down with you. Right off the bat, speaking of SummerSlam, I’m gonna have a major announcement concerning the immediate futures of both the Raw and SmackDown rosters at the pay-per-view.

Stephanie McMahon: Sounds serious.

Mr. McMahon:
It is … but exciting, and I‘ll be telling Coach the same this Monday.

~ Steph once again rolls her eyes at the mention of Jonathan Coachman, while McMahon seems to have gotten far more serious.

Mr. McMahon:
Now, as for these … situations with Cena and Hunter-

Stephanie McMahon:
Ugh.

Mr. McMahon: Come on now. I don’t know if you understand just how big of a deal this is. You’ve got advertisers worried, the board is worried, I’m worried, okay? Two of the biggest superstars in this company-

Stephanie McMahon: My brand, my way.

Mr. McMahon: My company, my way.

~ Steph shakes her head, and McMahon continues.

Mr. McMahon: Two of the biggest money-makers in this company are sitting out because of problems they’ve had with you.

Stephanie McMahon: Wrong.

Mr. McMahon: (Scoffs) Wrong?

Stephanie McMahon: They’re not sitting out because of me. Hunter and Cena are sitting out because they have egos the size of whole countries and think that they belong to be put above everybody on the roster for a World Title shot because of their names, and I won’t have it.

Mr. McMahon: Your style is costing me money, Steph.

Stephanie McMahon: Wrong again.

~ Vinnie Mac leans back in his chair, half-upset, half-impressed with the gall of his daughter, who continues.

Stephanie McMahon: Cena taking out The Undertaker costs you money. Triple H showing up to a pay-per-view only to turn around and piss our fans off costs you money. And let me remind you … they can come back whenever they like. They’re not suspended. They haven’t been told not to show up. My doors are wide open.

~ Stephanie lets out her trademark grin, as McMahon originally looks upset … and then lets out a smirk.

Mr. McMahon: You’re as stubborn as a mule, you know that?

Stephanie McMahon: I get it from my dad.

~ McMahon smiles as he gets up from his seat, adjusting his suit, while Steph gets up and does much of the same.

Mr. McMahon: Oh, and I see you did me that favor and kept Maryse.

~ Steph walks around the desk towards her father.

Stephanie McMahon: Friend of yours?

Mr. McMahon: Oh, I know her quite well (Lets out smile … but soon smartens up). But that’s beside the point. Do me another favor.

Stephanie McMahon: What is it with people and favors today?

Mr. McMahon: Give one of ‘em a call; Cena or Hunter. (Steph tries to cut him off) Ah, ah, you don’t have to promise anybody anything, but just listen to what they have to say, and then move on from there. All right?

~ Steph hesitates and then begrudgingly nods her head, before she and Vince embrace.

Mr. McMahon:
Take it easy, Steph.

Stephanie McMahon: You too, dad.

~ McMahon exits the room, while Stephanie looks on … and then looks up with a bit of an annoyed scowl, before she looks at the phone in the room.

*Back to ringside*​
4 - Non-Title Match
United States Champion Matt Hardy vs. Tom Tucker

The jobber names just come to me, people. Nothing but a match to showcase the new United States Champion, and Hardy quickly finishes his opponent off with a Side Effect, and then a Twist of Fate.

Winner - Matt Hardy via pin fall at 3:02.

The crowd cheers for Hardy, who gets up, looking as good as he has in a long time. The cheers immediately turn from cheers to heat … as CHRISTOPHER DANIELS stands behind Hardy, holding his U.S. Title belt!!! Young Matthew turns around and DANIELS DRILLS HIM WITH THE BELT, knocking him out cold!! The crowd pours on the heat for the number one contender to Hardy’s title, as Daniels simply lies the title across the chest of the unconscious Hardy, and leaves the ring, message sent loud and clear.

{Commercials}​
*Backstage - Booker T Locker Room*​
Booker T, flanked by his New Breed and Sharmell, stands across from … William Regal, Mark Henry, Teddy Long and Jamie Noble, the Cruiserweight Champion. None in the group are dressed to compete, but all wear looks of frustration on their faces … except Noble, who doesn’t really seem to know why he’s there.

Booker T: We’re all here taday because we all have somethin’ in common, we’ve all been disrespected, we’ve all been held back, we’ve all been held down, ‘n’ I’m just ‘bout sick of it.

~ The wrestlers nod along.

Booker T: William Regal, da greates’ technical wrestler of his generation not even able to get airtime, but ‘da sucka he beat, CM Punk, gets airtime.

~ Regal puts on his scowl, and shakes his head in disgust.

Booker T:
‘The World’s Strongest Man’ Mark Henry dominated Finlay at ‘da Bash, but he ain’t even get a chance to show his damn face last week, while Finlay has had matches for ‘da las’ two weeks.

~ Henry pounds his palm with his fist.

Booker T: And my New Breed, Monty and Elijah, instead of bein’ given a shot at ’da tag team titles, Stephanie McMahon gives The Hooligans anotha’ shot at ‘da belts, ‘n’ stick my guys in singles matches; their a damn tag team; the best in the business!

~ The Alpha Male makes a couple of his typically goofy faces, while Burke nods.

Booker T: ‘Den, you got Jamie Noble. ‘Dis man won the Cruiserweight Title, but yet he gets no respect. Steph ain’t gave him no damn mic time, and she keeps puttin’ him in these ridiculous matches each ‘n’ every week. Hell, his first title defense was a triple threat, what ‘da hell is ‘dat about?

~ Noble kinda shrugs his shoulders, agreeing … but not all that passionate.

William Regal: I’ll tell you what it is; it’s blood preposterous that the finest talent in this company are treated like crap because we have an incompetent wench in control.

Teddy Long: I’ve had just about enough of the Billion Dollar Racist, and it’s about time we did somethin’ about it. Ya feel me?

Sharmell: Oh, we gonna do somethin’ about it!

Booker T: Ya damn skippy. But I need ta know ‘dat you guys are down for whateva’. I need at know ‘dat you guys are down for takin’ ‘dis thing and pushin’ it to ‘da limit, ya dig what I’m sayin’? Billy Regal, you in?

~ Regal, after recovering from the shock of being called Billy, nods.

Booker T: Mark ‘n’ T-Lo?

Teddy Long: Holla, holla, holla.

Booker T:
Noble?

Jamie Noble: Actually, I ain’t getting involved in any of this crazy stuff. {Booker and company begin to protest} Relax, relax. Now, listen, you fellas make some good points, but the way I figure it is, I’m the Cruiserweight Champion, and the last thing I need is to get on McMahon’s bad side.

Booker T: What ‘da hell you talkin’ ‘bout, man!?

~ Noble, Booker and company continue to argue with one another as we fade out…

*Backstage - Hallway*​
‘The Great One’ The Rock makes his way down the corridor, dressed to compete, oiled up, as he has a bop in his step, ready to go. Rocky continues walking … until he passes a MASSIVE advertisement for SummerSlam, featuring both he and Kennedy. The Great One looks it up and down … and then lets out a slight smirk, before continuing on down the hall.

{Commercials}​

*Backstage - Booker T Locker Room*​
Booker T, Sharmell, Monty Brown, Elijah Burke, Mark Henry, Teddy Long and William Regal all continue to yell at Jamie Noble, who hold his hands up as he argues back, stating that he has no reason to get on the bad side of the general manager. The attention of the gang, however, is soon diverted as…

STEPHANIE MCMAHON walks into the locker room. All the talking stops, and most of the faces in the room show their clear frustration with the top dog on SmackDown; Noble, however, smiles wildly.

Stephanie McMahon: Jamie, they said I could find you here.

Jamie Noble:
Steph, ha, good to see ya, how are ya?

Stephanie McMahon: I’m-

Teddy Long: Little Miss Princess making her own visits now? News to me.

~ Steph smirks.

Stephanie McMahon: Always so colorful, Teddy.

Teddy Long: COLORFUL!? What the hell does that mean!?

Stephanie McMahon: Ooh, no need to get so … uppity, Teddy.

Teddy Long: UPPITY!?

Stephanie McMahon: You’re fun.

~ Long fumes with anger, while the rest of the pack attempt to calm him down; Steph turns her attention back to her Cruiserweight Champion.

Stephanie McMahon: I’m going to assume that you saw Kid Kash become the number one contender earlier tonight, correct?

Jamie Noble:
Yep.

Stephanie McMahon: Well, I know you just can’t wait to get in there to defend your title, so… we’re gonna have that match next week, right here on SmackDown.

~ Noble seems quite stunned by the announcement, but soon shakes it off, letting out a smile.

Jamie Noble: No problem, heh, you’re the boss.

Stephanie McMahon: Glad to hear it.

~ Steph turns around, and looks to head out, while Noble shakes his head, but Stephanie turns back around.

Stephanie McMahon:
Oh, and just to make sure that everything is squared up - and I know I probably don’t have to do this because you’re such a fighting champion…

~ Noble nods.

Stephanie McMahon: BUT, if you get counted out or disqualified next week against Kash, then you will LOSE the Cruiserweight Championship.

~ Jamie’s jaw hit’s the proverbial floor, as Steph lets out a slight smirk, and then heads out of the locker room. The camera pans over so we get a shot of the group behind Noble, all with their arms stretched out, as if to say, I told you so. Jamie’s face turns from shock to anger…

Jamie Noble: I’m in.

~ Booker pumps his fist, while the rest of the group let out a smirk.

William Regal: There ya go, sunshine.

*Back to ringside*​
5 - Main Event
The Rock
vs. Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy has a relatively impressive performance against The Great One, showing thunderous grit throughout. However, it’s not the fortitude of Jeff which allows him to hang with the multi-time WWE Champion, but the (over?)confidence of the number one contender, who, at several points in the contest, takes the time out to pose for the crowd and taunt.

The finish comes when the junior Hardy gets on a bit of a roll, taking Rocky down with clotheslines, jawbreakers, and every other athletic, comeback maneuver Jeff has in his playbook. Hardy then looks to go for the Twist of Fate, but Rocky spins out of it, and then plants Jeff with the ROCK BOTTOM!! The Rock won’t stop there though, and NIPS UP to his feet, before smelling it, to a mixed reaction. Rocky then grabs a hold of him and hits a second Rock Bottom, and then a PEOPLE’S ELBOW, before getting the three count.

Winner - The Rock via pin fall at 8:29.

Rocky gets up to his feet, and the ref looks to raise his hand, but The Great One quickly snatches it away, and walks to the turnbuckle, before climbing it and raising his arm. The sold-out crowd gives The People’s Champion a mixed reaction.

Rocky climbs down from the turnbuckle - into a DOUBLE LEG FROM MR. KENNEDY!!!

The crowd roars as the World Heavyweight Champion takes The Rock down and begins to hammer away on him with right hands!! The Great One manages to give himself some space, shoving KK on him, before getting back up to his feet.

KK throws a right at Rock, but The Great One ducks under, looking for a ROCK BOTTOM - but KK spins out of it, and LIFTS ROCK ONTO HIS SHOULDERS - but Rock fights out of it, and rolls out of the ring!!

The crowd gives another split reaction, as The Great One backs up the entrance ramp, pointing at his temple with a smile, while in the ring, KK lets out a smirk of his own, before showing Rock with his fingers that he was “‘that’ close”.

{Commercials}​
***I WALK ALONE***

The crowd erupts into a mixed reaction, but that soon degenerates into heat, as ‘The Animal’ Batista steps out onto the stage, adorned in a pair of sharp, dark shades and an equally sharp, dark suit. The former World Heavyweight Champion takes a look around the arena, his face showing no distinct emotion behind his sunglasses. Big Dave then continues on down to the ring, smooth stride intact. The Animal sprints up the steel steps, and climbs into the ring, while the sold-out crowd continues to shower the dominant competitor in heat.

Joey Styles: There he is, the former World Heavyweight Champion, ‘The Animal’ Batista, and rumor has it that Batista has some important things to get to here tonight.

Tazz: Just look at him; dressed to kill as usual. When Batista speaks, the world listens.

Batista calls for a microphone, and he’s soon handed one from Tony Chimel, as his music begins to die down. With his theme fading, the crowd immediately picks up, booing The Animal ferociously. Big Dave takes it all in stride, his face not changing at all. The crowd finally ceases from laying into Batista, and the big man brings the microphone up to his mouth.

Batista: Over the last couple o’ months or so … I’ve had my focus, I’ve had all my attention, each and every fiber of my being on one goal, and one goal only … the World Heavyweight Championship.

~ Batista stops for a second, bringing the mic down, trying to compose himself it would seem, before he brings the mic back up.

Batista: For eight months, I reigned as the World Heavyweight Champion. Every single month, week after week, day after day, hour after hour, minute after minute, for each and every second, I dominated this company like no other.

~ The crowd boos, but it’s the truth, quite frankly, and Big Dave knows it, paying the crowd no mind, and continues.

Batista:
There was absolutely NOBODY that could touch me. Kurt Angle stepped up, I put his ass into the ground.

~ More boos for The Animal.

Batista: Booker T felt the same thing. Same goes for Finlay. I beat down Bobby Lashley, I beat up Triple H, and I beat the crap out of The Rock, and I did it the way only I can; pure domination.

~ The crowd continues to jeer Batista. The Animal rubs the side of his mouth, then his soul patch, before continuing.

Batista: It didn’t matter the match type; No Holds Barred Matches, Triple Threat Matches, Elimination Chambers, Steel Cage Matches, I did it all with a smile on my face, not a scratch on my body, and the World Heavyweight Title on my shoulder. NOBODY could stop me.

~ ‘Asshole’ chant starts up, causing Batista to drop the mic. Big Dave waits for these contemptuous fans to die down before continuing.

Batista: But ever since the World Title has disappeared from my waist because of a fluke, nothing I seem to do to try to get it back works.

~ Batista shakes his head, clearly bothered by that cold truth, but he manages to bring the mic back up.

Batista: And that brings me, unfortunately, to my boy … my mentor … the man … ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair.

~ Incredibly LOUD pop for the greatest of all-time, though some boos are sprinkled in for the ‘unturned’ Naitch.

Batista: Ric … come on out here.

~ A “NA-TURE BOY” chant starts up, as Batista and the rest of this capacity crowd waits on the Money in the Bank contract holder.

Batista:
We need to talk.





***ALSO SPRACH ZARATHUSTRA***


The crowd roars, with a few letting out boos, as ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair steps out onto the stage, dressed in an expensive gray suit, looking as only he can look. Slick Ric carries the MITB briefcase in his right hand, and wears a skeptical look on his face as he stares in the ring at his friend, confused. Batista calls Ric on in, and Flair continues on down to the ring, while many of the fans give Flair the “I’m not worthy” bow at ringside.

The Nature Boy climbs into the ring, and although there’s a second or two of hesitation from both suited-and-booted superstars, Flair and Batista eventually shake hands and embrace in the middle of the ring. While Flair goes to grab a mic from Tony Chimel, Naitch’s music dies down, and Batista speaks.

Batista: Ric--

~ Another loud “NA-TURE BOY” chant starts up, cutting Batista off this time. Flair lets out a bit of smile for the first time, but almost immediately gets back to being serious, wondering why the hell he’s out here.

Batista: Ric, I want ya to see this…

~ Batista motions towards the titantron, and that’s where the attention of Naitch and the audience turns…

Backlash 2007: Towards the end of the Kennedy-Batista World Title match, the ref takes a spill and Naitch looks to help out Big Dave. Flair picks up a steel chair and slides into the ring. Before he can strike, The Hardys, come down the entrance ramp. Naitch quickly drops the chair, leaves the ring, leaps over the barricade, with the Hardys in pursuit.
Batista then grabs KK, looking for the Demon Bomb, but KK grabs the chair, and once Dave lifts him up, Kennedy lays him out with it. KK follows that up with the Kenton Bomb, and pins him to retain the title.
Everyone wonders whether or not Batista will explode, but Big Dave intensely focuses … on the steel chair left in the middle of the ring … and how it got there.

~ The footage ends, and the crowd boos the footage, while Flair holds his head down. The Animal turns towards Naitch, and Flair looks up, bringing the microphone up at the same time.

Ric Flair: Dave-

Batista: Wait … there’s more.

~ The crowd boos as Flair holds his head down, this time, shaking it a bit, as Batista once more motions towards the titantron…

GAB 2007: At the end of the Mega Tag Team Match - Cena/Batista vs. KK/Rock, with the referee down, Kennedy dumps Cena over the top rope and to the outside. KK’s arms are then grabbed by Batista, who calls in Flair with the MITB briefcase. Naitch smiles, then rears back, but KK ducks, and Naitch lays out Batista!
Flair looks shocked, but then goes out to lay out KK once more, but Kennedy ducks, and flattens Naitch with the Mic Check! As Rock gets back up, Cena looks to get back in the ring, but KK squares up, and calls him on in, causing Cena to flip him off, and head back up the ramp in a storm. Rocky hits The People’s Elbow on Batista and pins him, effectively dashing his SummerSlam World Title hopes.

~ More boos for the crowd as Naitch shakes his head … with a bit more disgust this time.

Batista: You and I both know that none of that was on purpose-

Ric Flair:
(Annoyed) I said I’m sorry already. So what’s the point, Dave?

~ Flair’s lack of composure gets a scowl out of Big Dave.

Batista: The point is that while your 785-year career seems to be moving on and up without a hitch - Mr. Money in the Bank, Main Event matches week in and out - my career is in the dump, because the World Heavyweight Championship isn’t around my waist! And whether it was on purpose or not, mistake or not … it’s yourfault.

~ The crowd boos Batista, as Flair’s eyes widen with shock. The Nature Boy drops the MITB briefcase on the ground, and takes a bit of a walk, before heatedly turning back to his protégé.

Ric Flair: My fault!?

Batista: Yeah.

~ Flair takes off his expensive jacket and furiously tosses it to the ground, getting a rousing pop from the crowd. Batista shakes his head with a bit of a smile, as Flair gets riled up.

Batista: Take it easy, Ric.

Ric Flair: MY FAULT!?

~ Flair gets right into Batista’s face, and puts his right index finger in it!

Ric Flair: Let me tell you somethin’, damn it!

~ The crowd ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs’, as Batista gives Flair a look that could kill.

Ric Flair: … You … are … the man! I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, you are THE - MOST - DOMINANT - WORLD - HEAVYWEIGHT - CHAMPION - OF - ALL TIME!!

~ Batista nods a bit with a smirk, but Flair doesn’t seem too happy, and neither is the crowd, booing that statement.

Ric Flair: BUT … if you think that I had anything to do with you losing those matches, you, my friend, are sadly mistaken!!

~ The Animal shakes his head.

Batista:
The footage doesn’t lie, Ric.

Ric Flair:
The footage doesn’t show you treatin’ the WrestleMania match like a JOKE for the first five minutes and three weeks before that, not training like you should, not eating like should, laughing at Kennedy, not givin’ a damn about nothin’!! The footage doesn’t show you being completely out of control for that Backlash match, no composure, no poise!! The footage doesn’t show … you being PLAIN OL’ STUPID AT JUDGMENT DAY!!

~ OH!; Flair looses up his tie, as Batista angrily looks at his mentor. Big Dave takes a deep breath before he speaks, however.

Batista: Watch it, Ric.

Ric Flair: You call me out in front of all these people!? Try to embarrass me!? Blame me!? Put your crap on me!? And I’m supposed to WATCH IT!? I’M--

~ Flair backs up and … DROPS A KNEE ON HIS JACKET! Epic. The crowd loudly cheers for The Nature Boy, as Flair pops back up to his feet and gets into Batista’s face again.

Ric Flair: I’M RIC FLAIR!! I’ve been doin’ this for THIRTY-FIVE YEARS - UP AND DOWN THE ROAD - STILL RELEVANT - MONEY IN THE BANK - GETTING READY FOR NUMBER SEVENTEEN!! HELL, I TRAINED YOU!! REMEMBER IT, BIG MAN!!
Don’t blame ME, blame yourself!! Get back on the horse, get back in the game, go get that belt, but don’t SLICK RIC!! I love ya like I son, Big Dave, but I don’t ASK for respect!! I’VE EARNED IT!! I’M - RIC - FLAIR!! WOOOOO!!!

~ The crowd WOOOS and then begins to cheer loudly for the tirade of the greatest to lace up a pair of boots. Big Dave nods, rubbing his soul patch, before he brings his eyes to the Nature Boy, and the mic to his mouth.

Batista:
Ric Flair, The Man?

Ric Flair:
THE MAN!! WOOOOO!!!

~ WOOOOO! Flair turns to the crowd.

Ric Flair: WOOOOOO!!!!

~ WOOOOOO!

Batista: Since you’re the man--

Ric Flair: THE MAN!!

~ WOOOOOO! Naitch turns to crowd again.

Ric Flair: WOOOO!!

~ WOOOOOO!

Batista: Since you want me to get back on the horse, back in the game, and you’re … The Man, and a stand-up guy, how about you stand up, and be a man … and put that Money in the Bank Contract on the line-

~ The crowd begins to buzz, while Flair looks down at his MITB briefcase.

Batista:
Against me-

~ Mixed reaction from the crowd, while Naitch looks up at Big Dave.

Batista:
At SummerSlam.

~ The sold-out audience lets out another loud mixed reaction, while Flair and Batista stare into the eyes of one another. Batista brings the mic back up.

Batista: You say it was an accident … but I’m still walking around here without my title belt. So the least you could do - since you’re such a standup guy - is to give me a shot at the Money in the Bank … A little friendly competition between friends.

~ Naitch takes another glance down at his MITB briefcase, before looking back up at his massive protégé, bringing the microphone up as well…

Ric Flair: …………You got it.

~ HUGE POP; Batista smiles.

Ric Flair: You want it, big man!? It’ll make you feel better!? Get you out of this funk!? Get your head back in the game!? Get you off my ass!? Then it’ll be The Animal versus … the limousine ridin’, jet flyin’, wheelin’, dealin’ kiss stealin’ SON OF A GUN, ‘THE NAITCHA BOY’ RIC FLAIR - WOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! - at SummerSlam!! WOOOOOO!!!

~ The crowd continues to roar and go crazy, as Flair begins to strut around the ring, bouncing off the ropes. Big Dave nods, as “Also Sprach Zarathustra” hits once more. Flair stops in the middle of the ring, where Batista waits, only to see The Animal in front of him. The Nature Boy and The Animal share a bit of an awkward staredown … neither man particularly upset with the other at the moment, but both riled up and anxious … as they wait for the first move???







END OF SHOW​


***



Current Card for SummerSlam
August 26th, 2007
East Rutherford, New Jersey




World Heavyweight Championship Match:
World Hvwt. Champion Mr. Kennedy vs. ‘The Great One’ The Rock



WWE Championship; TLC Match:
‘The Rated R Superstar’ Edge vs. ‘The Legend Killer’ Randy Orton



Money in the Bank Contract on the Line:
'The Nature Boy' Ric Flair vs. 'The Animal' Batista

---



Summer Games Gauntlet; #1 Contender’s Match:
'The Wrestling Machine' Kurt Angle vs. Ken Doane vs.
'The Guru of Greatness' John Morrison w/Melina vs. Carlito vs.
MVP w/Reigns|Playgirls vs. 'The Samoan Bulldozer' Umaga w/AAE




WWE Tag Team Championship Match; Stipulation TBA:
The Carolina Connection vs. The Hooligans




Women’s Championship; Victoria’s Last Chance:
Mickie James vs. Victoria

(All parties are banned from ringside; if Victoria loses, she will never receive another opportunity at the Women’s Championship)



United States Championship Match:
Matt Hardy vs. ‘The Fallen Angel’ Christopher Daniels


***

Match banners - Crazian
Show banner - JBLoser

***​
 
#1,357 ·
Re: 2007 & Beyond - Far From Done

Here's the deal:
~ Finally, caught up with BTB it would seem.
- Finished Legend's WM review.
- I see Pat (nor anybody else whom I regularly review has posted a show in a long while).
- In an attempt to catch up a bit, here are the next three shows in the continuation of this thread, before the final week before SSlam. The last two shows are recapped, outside of the opening promos. Enjoy.

...

Friday Night SmackDown! - August 10th, 2007; Youngstown, Ohio

“I didn’t come here to lose to anybody.”



Kash-ed Out
A video package plays recapping the Batista-Flair saga before the match between the two was made official last week on SmackDown, with the mentor and student agreeing to meet at S-Slam for the MITB. After that, we get the opening video and pyro, before we’re brought into the arena. The thousands of fans which have packed the arena, show off their signs and just generally go crazy, before we cut to our announce team, Joey Styles, Michael Cole and Tazz.

Joey Styles: A little over two weeks remain until the hottest party of the Summer, SummerSlam, live on pay per view!! Hello, I’m Joey Styles, here with my colleagues Tazz and Michael Cole, and the road to SummerSlam is in full swing!


Tazz: Absolutely, Styles. Tonight, we find out what the stipulation for the WWE Tag Team Championship Match at SummerSlam will be, chosen by the tag team champions, The Carolina Connection!! But that ain’t all.


Michael Cole: Not at all, because The Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels, the number one contender for the United States Title, will be in action tonight, taking on the brother of his SummerSlam opponent, Matt Hardy, …Jeff Hardy!

Tazz: And after last week’s intense … and downright awkward in-ring confrontation, ‘The Animal’ Batista and ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair … TEAM UP here tonight in tag team action!!

Michael Cole: That’s big, but as for the much hyped, much anticipated main event for SummerSlam, tonight we get the World Heavyweight Champion Mr. Kennedy calling out his opponent in the main event, The Rock!! We could get an absolute explosion here tonight between the champion and number one contender.

Joey Styles: Huge night we have for ya here on SmackDown, but up next, ‘The World’s Strongest Man’ Mark Henry is in action…


***SOME BODIES GONNA GET IT*** ‘The Silverback’ Mark Henry and his manager, Teddy Long, make their way down to the ring, where Hardcore Holly waits.

1 - Mark Henry vs. Hardcore Holly

Poor Bob Holly makes his return to television here tonight…and makes it against a mammoth monster in Mark Henry. Hardcore shows the grit, toughness and determination that’s … kept him his job for so long, quite frankly, but it’s no surprise that’s it simply a matter of time before the much stronger Henry begins to take control. He hits a couple of power clotheslines, and then a big splash, squashing Holly’s ribs. The Silverback doesn’t stop there, however, and picks Holly up, then PLANTS him with The World’s Strongest Slam, soon getting the three count.

Winner - Henry via pin fall at 4:15.

After the match, Henry angrily lifts Holly back up and tosses him from the ring like a piece of garbage. The crowd boos as Henry then pounds his chest, but the heat picks up even more, as T-Lo grabs a mic from ringside and steps into the ring.

Teddy Long: LET ME HOLLA AT YA … CRACKAS!!!

~ owned. Big-time heat for Long.

Teddy Long: Now, what ya just saw was the most dominant man in the free world teach a ******* what thuggin’ and buggin’ is all about!

~ More boos.

Teddy Long: But all you drunks in here need to realize that this is only the beginnin’, ya feel me? There’s a revolution comin’, there’s a mutiny on the way against Little Miss Princess … the Billion Dollar Racist … the general manager of Cracka’ Inc., Stephanie McMahon!

~ Vicious, and the crowd continues to jeer the tiny militant.

Teddy Long: There’s gonna be a revolution against Stephanie McMahon. There’s gonna be a revolution against each and every last one of her puppets. And if you want some names, if you want a few names of the puppets that I’m talking about, I’ll give ya a couple of names … when I’m damn good and ready.

~ More boos as Long nods along.

Teddy Long:
Now you holla, holla, holla!!

~ “MacMillitant,” Long’s theme, hits and T-Lo drops the mic and we fade out with an image of Henry & Long angrily glaring around the arena after putting Stephanie and her “puppets” on notice.

{Commercials}​

*Outside - Parking Lot*​
An expensive, black, sports car quickly pulls into the large parking lot. Soon enough, out steps … THE ROCK, the number one contender for the World Heavyweight Title at SummerSlam, keys in hand. Dressed in his leather pants, shades, and leather vest, Rocky straightens himself up as someone in a vest and weird haircut walks up to him.

The Rock: Hey, jabroni - you look familiar - anyway, never mind, (tosses keys to guy) don’t scratch it, and put it in a good spot. Comprende, amigo?

~ The Great One then takes off past him, and further into the lot, while … Santino Marella looks at the keys in disgust.

Santino Marella: Ima no stinkin’ car parker. Ima Santino! And you will pay for this, Mr. Rocko.

*Backstage - Batista/Flair Locker Room*​
Inside, ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair sits against one of the lockers, dressed in a SummerSlam T-shirt, lacing up one of his red boots, with his MITB briefcase beside him. The camera pans over to show ‘The Animal’ Batista standing a ways away from Naitch, warming up, already dressed to compete here tonight (still wearing a bit of tape on his right hand). Even though they’ll be teaming later tonight, the two megastars don’t speak to one another, don’t look at one another, barely acknowledge that the other one exists, and continue to go about their ‘individual’ business…

…until Batista stops, and has a seat next to Flair. Naitch stops what he’s doing, and looks at The Animal, who stares straight ahead as he speaks…

Batista: Ric…

~ Batista turns to face Flair.

Batista: Last week … was about nothing more than business. Everything that I said and showed last week was focused on SummerSlam, nothing else. But get it straight … … … … … you are my mentor. You are The Man. And you are the greatest wrestler to ever lace up a pair of boots, bar none.

~ Naitch runs his right hand through his hair, as Batista continues.

Batista:
And tonight isn’t about SummerSlam, it’s not about blame, it’s not about me complaining, it’s not about your Money in the Bank, it’s not about the World Heavyweight Title … it’s about smashing a couple of bald-headed punks, who are gonna be trying to make a name for themselves by knocking off the most dominant World Champ of all-time, and the greatest wrestler ever.

~ Flair nods a bit.

Batista: I don’t know about you … but I didn’t come here to lose to a couple of curtain jerkers.

~ Batista holds his right hand out, looking right at Flair. The Nature Boy looks at Big Dave’s hand … before letting out a smile.

Ric Flair: I didn’t come here to lose to anybody.

~ Flair slaps five with Batista, and the two get up to their feet, smirking. Naitch grabs his awesome red robe from off a hook, as Batista jumps up a couple of times, getting loose.

{Commercials}​
2 - Tag Team Match
The Hooligans
vs. The Mexicools

While The Mexicools aren’t the Connection, they still give The Hooligans a strong challenger tonight and the fans in attendance get a really exciting contest in the process (which I don’t feel like writing out.) The finish comes when Crazy misses a moonsault off the top, and Kendrick makes him pay when he drills him with the Sliced Bread #2 and pins him for the duke.

Winner - The Hooligans via pinfall at 6:07.

London and Kendrick each let out a smile, picking up a nice little win, before their rematch for the tag team titles…

***FIRESTORM***

The crowd gives a STRONG ovation as the WWE Tag Team Champions The Carolina Connection, Shelton Benjamin and Gregory Helms, step out onto the stage, both dressed to the nines in shirts, slacks and shades, titles on their shoulders, Helms with a mic in hand. The Hooligans watch intently as the music dies down, and Helms brings the microphone up.

Gregory Helms: Helluva win, fellas. Crazy and Psichosis are no joke. They’re still no Carolina Connection-

~ The crowd cheers, as both Benjamin and Helms smirk, and The Hooligans shake their heads in disgust.

Gregory Helms: But still, a great team. Now … as for SummerSlam-

~ The crowd begins to buzz.

Gregory Helms: Me and Shelton have gone back and forth on this several times, but it comes down to one question, and one only. How do Shelton and I prove … that we are, without a shadow of doubt, the single greatest tag team in the free world today. We went through all the matches in the book, but in the end, there’s only one match that’s set up to establish pure … superiority. So at SummerSlam, it’s gonna be The Hooligans versus The Connection … in a Two out of Three Falls Match!

~ Solid pop for the match, not earth-shattering, since the match doesn’t bring to mind high spots and blood. L&K intensely stare at their SS opponents, unshaken by the match type added.

Gregory Helms: We went thirty minutes at the Great American Bash, but that’s gonna be nothing compared to SummerSlam. Y’see, because on August 26th, after me and Shelton pick up the first fall with relative ease, we plan on dragging that second fall out. And for the two of you, it’s gonna seem like an eternity, just knowing that we can end that match, and beat you two … whenever we like.

~ ooh. Mixed reaction from the crowd that time, but still leaning towards cheers, while London looks disgusted and Kendrick fumes with anger.

Gregory Helms:
Should be fun. See ya there, boys.

~ “Firestorm” hits once more and the Connection leave the stage area, another match set up in stone for SummerSlam.

*Backstage - Hallway*​
The United States Champion Matt Hardy has a friendly conversation with a couple of face mid- and lower-card wrestlers … before his brother, Jeff Hardy, walks up to the group. Matt wishes the others farewell, and his bro speaks.

Jeff Hardy: Look, Matt, I know we’ve had our problems lately, but I gotta ask you a favor for tonight. I-

Matt Hardy: Jeff, it’s no problem. You’re my brother, and little spats aside, I’d do anything for you, man. Hell, I was looking for a bit of payback against Daniels anyway, so you can bet your ass that I’ll be right out there to watch your back.

~ Matt holds his hand out, and Jeff takes it, somewhat hesitantly and the two embrace, before releasing.

Jeff Hardy: That’s cool, and I appreciate it … but I was hoping you’d kinda … hang back here tonight.

~ Matt seems a bit taken aback by that request at first, but soon smiles, and nods.

Matt Hardy: Sure, no problem.

~ Jeff slaps Matt on the shoulder, and walks on down the hallway.

{Commercials}​
Joey Styles: Welcome back to SmackDown, ladies and gentlemen. And we have got it confirmed. At SummerSlam, it’ll be The Carolina Connection defending the WWE Tag Team Championships against The Hooligans at SummerSlam!

Tazz: I know that SummerSlam is three and a half hours this year, but we may need ALL of that time if the match these guys put on at the Great American Bash is any indication. That match is gonna be a classic.

Michael Cole: No doubt about that, Tazz. The two most talented tandems in the entire sport today lock it up for the prestigious pieces of gold. I can’t wait.

*Backstage - GM’s Office*​
Sitting in her office, Stephanie McMahon taps her foot up and down on the floor, anxious, as she stares down at the phone on top of her desk. Steph reaches for the phone, but as she puts her hands on it, she pulls her hands back. McMahon then shakes her head in disgust, flailing her arm at the phone…

*Back to ringside*​
3 - Non-Title Match
Batista|Ric Flair vs. The Gymini w/Simon Dean

When Big Dave is in the ring, the crowd is put into an awkward situation, certainly no fan of The Animal, but don’t give a crap about The Gymini. Luckily for them, Naitch is soon tagged in, and the building comes alive as the 16-time world champion comes in on fire with chops and rights, hitting everything that moves!

The match soon breaks down, but not for long, as Batista and Flair regain control, with The Animal lifting Jake Gymini, the illegal man over his head, and tosses him OVER the top rope onto Simon Dean! Jesse staggers in the ring, and Dave and Ric take turns beating the crap out of him; right from Batista, chop from Flair, right, chop, right, chop, right, chop!

The ref does nothing to stop it, and The Animal takes full advantage, shooting Jesse into the ropes and then PLANTING him with a spine buster!! But since he’s not the legal man, he just watches as Flair locks in the FIGURE FOUR while the audience goes completely crazy, cheering on The Nature Boy. It’s only a matter of time before Jesse submits to Mr. Money in the Bank!

Winner - Batista & Flair via submission at 4:18.

After the match, Batista and Flair shake hands and embrace in the middle of the ring, being cheered wildly by the fans in attendance.

Michael Cole: Listen to this ovation from this sold-out crowd!!

Tazz:
Yeah, this is cute and all but when SummerSlam rolls around, those two are gonna be on opposite side of the ring, tryna kill each other for a shot at the World Heavyweight Title that the Money in the Bank guarantees.

Joey Styles: You’re right about that, Tazz, but it’s still kinda nice to see two of the most controversial superstars in the locker room getting this kind of reaction here tonight.

The referee gets in between the two and raises they arms up, but Batista’s attention is soon distracted by a sign in the front row, which reads “Unleash The Animal,” with a pic of Big Dave standing over a bloody Triple H inside the HIAC. While Flair struts around the ring to cheers, Batista’s eyes remain FIXATED on the sign…

*Backstage - Interview Area*​
The lovely Kristal Marshall stands by, microphone in hand, with the number one contender for the Cruiserweight Title, The Notorious K.I.D. Kid Kash, who’s dressed to compete.

Kristal Marshall:
Hello, ladies and gentlemen, I’m standing by here with Kid Kash, and, Kid, later tonight you finally get a one-on-one title shot against Cruiserweight Champion Jamie Noble. How are you feeling before heading into one of the biggest matches in your WWE career?

Kid Kash: I’m feelin’ like it’s about damn time. Let me tell ya all something, for the longest time the Notorious K.I.D. has been spinnin’ his wheels, jus’ lookin’ for an opportunity to break free and prove myself as the best thing in this hellhole, and that’s exactly what I plan on doin’ here tonight. Jamie Noble is a former tag team partner of mine, but unfortunately for him, I never much cared for loyalty if it didn’t get me what I wanted. And what I want, Noble has. Time to cash in.

~ Kash heads off camera, getting light applause from the crowd, while Kristal looks on.

{Commercials}​

*Backstage - Rock Locker Room*​
The Rock, wearing his black leather vest, black leather pants, and dark shades adjusts his vest with a bit of a smirk, before he reaches over and takes a swig from his water bottle before tossing it aside. Soon enough, there’s a knock on the door, and Maryse, assistant to the GM, walks in.

The Rock: Hey, lil’ mama, you don’t just walk into The Rock’s locker room. You knock, The Rock says come in, then you come in. Rock’s the next World Champ, show a little respect.

Maryse: I’m sorry.

~ Rock begrudgingly nods a bit, and Maryse starts, while The Rock walks over to his bag.

Maryse: Ms. McMahon say she wants no … uh … how do you say? … fighting tonight, just talking.

~ Rocky looks up from his bag and turns back to Maryse, before lowering his shades.

The Rock: Where are you from? Russia?

Maryse: France.

The Rock: Well, The Rock says this, you go back to Stephanie and you tell her this, say it in English, Russian, French, Spanish, it doesn’t matter!! You tell her that The Rock’ll be cool. The Rock’ll show up, listen, talk to that piece of crap, and walk off, ready, ready for SummerSlam, World Heavyweight Title on the line, biggest match of the year! …BUT! But, if Kennedy even looks at The Rock the wrong way, The Rock promises absolutely NOTHING!

~ Rock glares at Maryse, before he straightens up his shades and goes back to his bag, allowing Maryse to exit the room.

*Backstage - Interview Area*​
Josh Matthews, microphone in hand, stands by with the Cruiserweight Champion Jamie Noble, who’s booed rather roundly as he‘s dressed to compete, title belt around his waist.

Josh Matthew: Jamie Noble, a little later tonight you will put your Cruiserweight Championship on the line against ‘The Notorious K.I.D.’ Kid Kash. But if you get counted out or disqualified, you will lose the title to Kid Kash. What are your thoughts heading into this match up?

Jamie Noble: I’m thinkin’ this is a load of crap! First off, when was the last time I was even counted out or disqualified in a title match?

Josh Matthews: Well, wouldn’t that mean you have nothing to worry about?

Jamie Noble: That ain’t the point, moron. That means that this stip shouldn’t be on this match in the first place; it degrades my title ‘n’ insults me as a champion. I don’t what McMahon’s problem is, but it ain’t gonna make a damn bit o’ difference, ‘cause I ain’t losin’ to Kid Kash inside the ring, I ain’t losin’ the title to Kid Kash by count out or disqualification outside the ring, ‘n’ I’m gonna show that … puppet … what bein’ the Cruiserweight Champion is all about.

~ Noble slaps the title on his waist and then walks off camera, leaving Matthews to look on.

Joey Styles: Both Jamie Noble and Kid Kash more than confident heading into that huge Cruiserweight Title Match later on tonight. But up next, ‘The Fallen Angel’ Christopher Daniels takes on Jeff Hardy!

{Commercials}​
4 - Jeff Hardy vs. Christopher Daniels w/Allison Danger

The two stars put on a solid enough match, with Daniels working a much more methodical style than he usually does, in an attempt to wear down the high-flying, high-risk Hardy, until Jeff comes back, and takes to the air.

The finish comes when Daniels manages to avoid the Whisper in the Wind by Hardy, and then goes for The Angel’s Wings … but Jeff spins out of it, and drills Daniels with a jawbreaker! Hardy then looks to capitalize with a Twist of Fate, but once he spins, Daniels lifts him up and plants him with a Blue Thunder Driver.

Instead of going for the cover, however, The Fallen Angel rolls out of the ring, grabs himself a steel chair, and rolls back into the ring. Jeff staggers back up to his feet … and Daniels LAYS HIM OUT WITH THE CHAIR, causing the disqualification!

Winner - Jeff Hardy via DQ at 10:03.

Daniels lets out a smirk, before slamming the chair down in the middle of the ring, before he lifts Jeff back up and tucks him between his legs. The Fallen Angel moves over the chair, and looks ready to inflict even more damage - but soon enough, the crowd roars as MATT HARDY sprints down the entrance ramp, title belt in hand!!

Daniels tosses Jeff to the side just as Matt slides in! Matt looks to drill Daniels with the title belt, but The Fallen Angel quickly ducks it, and then slides out of the ring, before quickly backing up the entrance ramp. The U.S. Champion checks on his brother, while Allison and Daniels, who wipes a ‘tear’ from his eye, head back up the ramp.

Joey Styles: Matt Hardy coming to the aid of his brother Jeff here tonight, because there was no telling what Daniels would’ve done if he got the chance.

Tazz: The Fallen Angel is a master of manipulation and all things of the sort, so you can never be too sure what he’s up to … though it was pretty clear in that situation that Jeff would be in some serious trouble.

Michael Cole: That United States Title Match at SummerSlam just got quite a bit more interesting.

(No it didn’t, not really, but it will.)

*Backstage - Kennedy Locker Room*​
The World Heavyweight Champion Mr. Kennedy, dressed in a pair of sweats and a “Hit Harder” cutoff T-shirt, sits back in his chair, watching the monitor (which stills shows Daniels and Hardy in the ring), drinks a soda, title draped across his waist. Soon there’s a knock on the door. KK stares at the door… waiting for someone to come in… but no one does.

Mr. Kennedy: Oh dear God. (Puts on sweet-sounding voice)Come iiiiin.

~ Maryse walks into the room, as KK turns off the monitor, and stares at Stephanie’s assistant.

Mr. Kennedy: What do ya need?

Maryse: Ms. McMahon say she wants no … uh, fighting tonight.

~ KK rolls his eyes and lets out a smirk.

Mr. Kennedy: And where is … Ms. McMahon? I’d like to hear this from her mouth. I don’t believe you. You don’t have honest eyes.

Maryse: Honest eyes?

Mr. Kennedy: Absolutely.

Maryse: I don’t know what mean.

Mr. Kennedy: Of course you don’t, you’re French.

Maryse: So?

Mr. Kennedy: The French are stupid.

~ Maryse seems shocked and then offended, but mostly confused by KK’s comments, as the world champion glares at her, stone in his face. After a second or two of noticing Maryse’s embarrassed look, Kennedy lets out a smile, and gets up to his feet, holding his title belt.

Mr. Kennedy: Relax, I’m kidding.

Maryse: Kidding?

Mr. Kennedy: Uhhh, joke … Ha-ha … Uh… funny.

Maryse: Oh. :$

~ KK places the belt down onto the chair, then looks back to Maryse.

Mr. Kennedy: You tell Steph that I’m not gonna do anything to hurt her main event for SummerSlam, or her precious little buyrates, so then she can go back to Vince and he can tell her how proud he is, and she can get the respect and love that she’s always wanted.

~ Maryse nods, and then turns to leave, but KK gently grabs her arm, causing her to turn around.

Mr. Kennedy: But if Rock gets too … mouthy … I won’t hesitate ... to slap his ass back to Hollywood. And you can tell her I said it.

~ Kennedy lets her go, and Maryse nods before leaving the room.

Mr. Kennedy: Merci.

{Commercials}​
5 - Cruiserweight Championship Match
Jamie Noble defends against Kid Kash
*If Noble is counted out or DQ’d, he loses the title*

After being tag team partners a while back and feuding with each other either directly or indirectly for the past few months, it comes as no surprise that both men are more than ready to counter the others most used offensive maneuvers. The first few minutes plays out like a chess match with several reverses being exchanged before even a blow is landed.

Finally, three minutes into it, Noble has had enough, and the Cruiserweight Champion decides to take it to the outside, throwing Kash to the floor. Noble follows him out, and looks to use everything he can spot to injure Kash … but it’s of no use, as the former ECW wrestler, Kash, is more than capable of handling himself in a less than tidy setting, and ends up with the advantage!

After several minutes of dominating the champion, The Notorious K.I.D. looks to end it, going up top for the DOUBLE JUMP MOONSAULT - but Noble moves out of the way, and Kash crashes and burns! Noble quickly lifts his former Pit Bull partner up, and goes for the TIGER BOMB - but Kash counters into a hurricanrana!! Noble staggers back up to his feet, and Kash kicks him in the gut, and goes for THE DEAD LEVEL - AND HITS IT!!!!!

The crowd erupts into cheers … but that soon turns into heat as BOOKER T AND THE NEW BREED begin walking down to the ring!!!

Kash angrily gets up to his feet, and points to the incoming superstars, who soon circle & surround the ring. The Notorious K.I.D. … arrogantly lets out smirk, and sticks out his chin, daring one of them to hit him, knowing full well that he’ll become the Cruiserweight Champion if Noble gets DQ’d. Booker leaps onto the apron, and the referee immediately gets in between the two superstars…while Burke leaps onto the apron! Kash quickly runs over and drills him with a right, knocking him down! The Alpha Male enters the ring, and looks for the POOOOOUNCE~~~~!!!~~~~ … but Noble moves out of the way, and Monty goes SAILING through the ropes, to the floor!!!

Booker and the referee continue to argue, while Kash lets out a smirk - CRACK!!!!!

Kash gets FLATTENED by a BRASS KNUCKLE shot from WILLIAM REGAL, who got into the ring by leaping over the fan barricade!! Regal grabs Noble and drags him on top of Kash, before rolling out of the ring. The crowd boos feverishly while Booker leaps down off the apron, and the referee turns around, and gets down to make the cover! 1... 2………3!!!

Winner - Noble via pin fall at 11:47. Noble retains Cruiserweight Title.

While the boos continue to pour in, Regal, Booker, Brown and Burke roll into the ring. The four superstars whom were responsible for Noble still retaining the Cruiserweight Title pay no mind to the downed CW Champion, and instead, BEGIN TO STOMP AWAY ON KASH!!!

The crowd boos furiously as the quartet lay down a beating on Kash, stomping away on him with no remorse. Regal moves the rest of the group out of the way and mounts Kash, brass knucks still on hand, and DRILLS the former champion with a couple of STIFF shots to the face WITH THE KNUCKS, immediately
BUSTING HIM WIDE OPEN!!!

Regal gets off of Kash, and lets out a smirk, while Booker and company stand over the downed Kash. As Noble gets up to his feet…

…CM PUNK, REY MYSTERIO, AND CHAVO GUERRERO SPRINT DOWN THE RAMP!!!

The three superstars receive a monstrous ovation as they slide on into the ring, and the troops inside of it prepare for battle! Punk, Rey and Chavo brawl with the five superstars as best they can, while Kash lies motionless, bloody on the canvas, being checked on by the referee. Somewhat surprisingly, the speed & finesse of the three faces is enough to keep them competing with the numbers disadvantage…

…and that’s all fine and good … until ‘THE SILVERBACK’ MARK HENRY and Teddy Long make their way on down to the ring!!!

Soon enough, Mizark steps into the ring, and no amount in the speed in the world is gonna stop the big man, as he completely LEVELS Punk with a massive clothesline!! Mysterio takes a shot next, shoots off the ropes, and goes for a hurricanrana … but Henry simply flings him down to the canvas with a authority!! Chavo tries his luck after, and hammers away on the back of the World’s Strongest Man, before he shoots off the ropes -

- POOOOOOOOUNCE~!!!!

Brown wipes Chavito out with his epic finishing maneuver. Booker T calls for a microphone, and soon gets it.

Booker T: ‘Dis is what ya’ get when you disrespect ‘da real stars o’ ‘dis business!!!

~ Heat

Booker T: Stephanie, I hope you’re watchin’ ‘cause we ain’t done yet!! Fellas, finish these suckas off!!

~ Book tosses the mic, and the rest of the group begins lifting the worn faces up and to their feet (except Kash, who has now rolled to the outside of the ring, still bleeding like a stuck pig)…

***MY NAME IS FINLAY***

The crowd ERUPTS into cheers as ‘The Fighting Irishman’ FINLAY steps out onto the stage, shillelagh in hand, flanked by Chris Sabin, Hardcore Holly and a couple of other mid-, lower-card wrestlers all armed with WEAPONS!! The mob makes their way down to the ring, as Booker & company smartly roll out of the ring, and head over the fan barricade, while some of the more confrontational superstars (Monty, Henry) still want some.

Finlay and his crew step in, while Punk, Chavo and Mysterio all get up to their feet, each holding a part of their body, gritting their teeth in frustration. While the refs check on The Notorious K.I.D. down and out on the outside, Finlay doesn’t take his eyes on the gang heading through the crowd, now knowing the kind of damage that they plan on inflicting to the ‘puppets’ of SmackDown.

{Commercials}​
Joey Styles: I’m not even sure how to describe what went down before the break. Actually, I do; out and out chaos. Booker T, William Regal, Teddy Long and this group that they’ve assembled damn near ran roughshod over this place a minute ago!

Michael Cole: Absolutely. First, they cheated Kid Kash out of the Cruiserweight Title, allowing Noble to retain, and by the way, Kid Kash suffered a deep laceration on his face … and may have actually suffered a broken jaw.

Tazz: Things are getting out of control here in the WWE. I mean I know it’s Summer, it’s hot, people get annoyed, but with what happened to Victoria on Raw, and now this to Kash, Booker and company … basically mobilizing against Stephanie McMahon and the brand, there’s no telling what could happen in coming weeks.





***TURN UP THE TROUBLE***

The crowd lets out a thunderous ovation as the World Heavyweight Champion Ken Kennedy steps out onto the stage, dressed just like he was earlier tonight, title belt slung over his shoulder.

Joey Styles: And here we go!! Mr. Kennedy, the World Heavyweight Champion, receiving a standing ovation here tonight, is looking to call out ‘The People’s Champion’ The Rock!!

Tazz: What started out as a match about respect and the championship has slowly but surely gotten more and more personal between these incredibly popular athletes and we could seen an explosion here tonight.

KK steps into the ring and raises his right hand into the air, awaiting his microphone to lower. It eventually does and the lights dim a bit, while his music dies down.

Mr. Kennedy: All right … I’ve gotta be honest with you people tonight … I know you were lookin’ for me to come out here, all fired up, ready to go, lookin’ for some action, lookin’ for some trouble, lookin’ … for The Rock.

~ Mixed reaction for The Great One.

Mr. Kennedy: But honestly … I’m just not really all that upset with the things that have happened recently. Surprisingly, I’m just not all that angry. I mean, I know I should be. At the Great American Bash, I was driven onto my face by a Triple H Pedigree…

~ Crowd boos.

Mr. Kennedy: Five days after that, I extended my hand to The Rock … only to have him slap me in the face and gimme a Rock Bottom…

~ Mixed reaction, leaning towards heat.

Mr. Kennedy: Last week, Rock got on the microphone, and just ripped me to shreds, and that was before he ran away from me later that night. No, it hasn’t been a great Summer for yours truly.

~ KK rubs his chin with his free hand, and then continues.

Mr. Kennedy: But … I’ve been thinking about why I’m not more angry about this stuff, and I’ve come to a few theories. Wait, I’ve got ‘em here somewhere…

~ Kennedy reaches down into his left pocket and pulls out a piece of paper. He unfolds it, then grabs the mic once more while reading the paper.

Mr. Kennedy: Reasons why Mr. Kennedy … Kennedy isn’t more upset about his crappy Summer; Theory number one: Mr. Kennedy knows that Triple H is an old, bitter, big-nosed, washed-up, shell of his former self that can no longer maintain his top spot … because he no longer bends the general manager over a desk every morning.

~ OH!!!; The crowd lets out a raucous reaction, while KK tries his damndest to hide the smile that is creeping over his face while he flips the page.

Mr. Kennedy: Theory number two: Mr. Kennedy knows it’s only a matter of time before Dwayne takes his ass back to the Hollywood to make yet another horrible movie that’ll make Hulk Hogan look like Clint Eastwood.

~ A couple of laughs for that one, as KK flips the page.

Mr. Kennedy: Third and final theory: …Mr. Kennedy knows that no matter what happens - the whole in the ozone layer could seal up, gas could go up to seven dollars a gallon, the terrorists could win, Britney could have another hit record, Al Sharpton could join the Klan, hell could freeze over, pigs could fly, WHATEVER-

~ KK pauses, allowing the crowd to cheer.

Mr. Kennedy: It wouldn’t change the fact that I get to step into the ring one on one, all alone … with The Rock at SummerSlam. Period.

~ More cheers

Mr. Kennedy: So, Rock, you enjoy this time as the number one contender. Do all the big talk shows, hype the match up to the arena, trash me, build yourself up, do whatever it needs to do … but do me a favor … and just … remember. Remember that no matter what you say to whomever you say it to, it boils down to SummerSlam, August 26th, New Jersey, Continental Airlines Arena, in front of 20,000 people an-

???: (Clears throat)

~ The camera pans away from Mr. Kennedy and towards the titantron … where THE ROCK appears. The Great One is a given a loud mixed reaction, while KK shakes his head.

The Rock: Mr. Kennedy, you know how The Rock hates to keep you waiting, but excuse The Rock one second… FINALLY, THE ROCK HAS COME BACK TO YOOOUNGSTOWN!!!

~ Another raucous reaction, leaning towards cheers for The Brahma Bull.

The Rock: Kenny, The Rock is sorry to interrupt, but he‘s back here in the locker room, and The Rock just wanted to say … great speech as always. You’re one of the best in the business at that; y’know, you were into it, the people were into it, you had the insults, you pulled out the paper and did some good stuff with that, tremendous stuff all around. Give Mr. Kennedy a round of applause for what he just did.

~ Rock takes the time to actually applaud KK, while some in the crowd do as well, while others boo the arrogance of the #1 contender.

The Rock: And while The Rock can appreciate you talkin’ this match up, don’t get it confused, The Rock is coming for the World Heavyweight Championship. Why? Because The Rock is focused. The Rock is focused on SummerSlam. The Rock is focused on being the best.

~ {RING!}

The Rock:
The Rock is focused on-

~ {RING!}

The Rock:
Excuse The Rock one second…

~ Rock reaches into his pocket and pulls out his cell phone. KK shakes his head, while Rock flips it open and puts it up to his ear.

The Rock: Yeah? (…) Well, I’m kinda busy right now (…) She did what? (…) Haha, no she didn’t (…) You tell her I said-

Mr. Kennedy: Uhh, superstar, we were kinda wonde-

~ Rock looks up at Kennedy and holds up a finger.

The Rock: (Whispering) Two seconds, two seconds. (Back into phone) Yeah (…) yeah (…) (laughs) (…) well, The Rock has gotta let ya go, he’s got his people waiting for him, and the blonde guy (…) yeah, that’s him (…) I’ll talk to ya later (…) bye.

~ The crowd boos Rock, who closes the phone and puts it back in his pocket. Rocky readjusts his shades while an “Asshole” chant starts up.

The Rock: All right, where was The Rock? …………Oh yeah, The Rock is focused. It’s gonna be a big night come SummerSlam, biggest match of the year, one of the greatest matches of all-time, be there, August 26th live on pay-per-view to see Mr. Kennedy go ONE-ON-ONE with The Most Electrifying Man in Sports and Entertainment, The Great One, The People’s Champion, THE ROCK!!!

~ LOUD mixed reaction, this time leaning towards heat for the champion; KK lets out a smirk.

Mr. Kennedy: Innovative material you’re pulling out for this one, Rock.

~ Rock nods his head with a bit of a grin.

The Rock: The Rock believes that if ain’t broke, don’t fix it, which brings me to next week here on SmackDown. Y’know … The Rock’s all about giving. The Rock’s gona give these people a great match at SummerSlam, and The Rock’s gonna give them a great champion after the Rock WINS at SummerSlam-

~ Mixed reaction.

The Rock: But as for next week, The Rock is gonna have only his third ever … ROCK CONCERT here on SmackDown!!

~ KK rolls his eyes as Rocky gets another mixed reaction, and takes off his shades.

The Rock: IF YA SMELLLLLL-

Mr. Kennedy: Ah, ah, ah, ah. Rocky, personally, I can‘t wait for that Rock Concert next week. Heh, what is it that you can’t do?

The Rock: (Laughing “modestly”) Beats me.

Mr. Kennedy: I mean, you wrestle, ya sing, ya do movies, you do it all! Granted … you suck at all of ‘em, but still-

~ The crowd laughs, and a scowl comes over the face of The Great One.

Mr. Kennedy: It’s the effort that counts. And since I know that you are a giving person, and I know for a fact that you are in the building here tonight-

~ Crowd buzzes.

Mr. Kennedy: Why don’t you come out here, and give me and the rest of these people a mere glimpse of yourself?

~ Crowd cheers

Mr. Kennedy: I’m sure that’s something … that the MILLIONS-

~ AND MILLIONS!

Mr. Kennedy: And millions of fans would enjoy. Wouldn’t you enjoy that, Youngstown?

~ The crowd lets out a loud cheap pop, while Rock lets out a bit of a nervous smile, and puts his shades back on.

The Rock:
The Rock doesn’t know about that. Y’know, The Rock is busy-

Mr. Kennedy: And, y’know what? I’ll make a promise to you in front of all these people that I will not lay a finger on you. Not a one.

~ Rock rubs his chin.

The Rock: Not a finger?

Mr. Kennedy: Not a one.

~ Rock smiles.

The Rock: Well … The Rock is always up to see the people.

~ The crowd pops as Rock gets up from his seat, and heads off camera, while KK takes his mic and tosses it up into the air, back towards the rafters. After a dozen or seconds, filled with a couple of “Rocky” chants…





***IF YA SMELL***

The attention of everyone in the arena turns to the stage as, with the music blasting, the appearance of The Great One is imminent. The crowd soon lets out a loud mixed reaction as THE ROCK appears … but in the crowd, as he LEAPS OVER THE FAN BARRICADE, and slides into the ring!!!

Michael Cole: Wait a second! Wait a second! The Rock is in the ring!!

Joey Styles: Seems to me somebody has just been set up by a veteran.

Tazz: Doesn’t get smoother than that, fellas.

The People’s Champion walks up to Mr. Kennedy … only to have KK QUICKLY SPIN AROUND AND LEVEL HIM WITH THE TITLE BELT TO THE FACE!!!! The audience EXPLODES into another mixed reaction, as Rock hit’s the canvas in a heap, didn’t even see it coming.

KK drops the title belt, grabs onto the limp limbs of The Rock and drags him near the corner, horizontally. The crowd begins to buzz as the World Heavyweight Champion steps out onto the apron, and then climbs to the top turnbuckle!! Kennedy reaches the top … but several referees run down to the ring, and attempt to hold him off.

Kennedy looks to the crowd, who mostly cheer for him to crush the unmoving Rock, and then looks back at the referee’s, who continue to tell the champion to stop. KK lets out a sigh … and then climbs down from the turnbuckle, back onto the apron. The crowd boos in disappointment, and the refs get on their knees, slightly hovering over the downed #1 contender.

KK then lets out a smirk, and quickly climbs to the top turnbuckle, while the audience gets up to their feet! Before anybody can do anything, KK LEAPS OFF THE TOP AND DRILLS ROCK WITH THE KENTON BOMB!!!!

A couple of referees even receive some of the blow as well, while the crowd goes wild. The Great One holds his gut in pain, while KK reaches down, grabs his World Title belt, and rolls back out of the ring. Kennedy takes tosses the belt onto his shoulder, and heads back up the ramp, to a monstrous mixed reaction.

The final shot of the night is of Rocky lying on the canvas, holding his stomach in pain with a bunch of downed referees around him, a little over two weeks before he challenges for the World Heavyweight Title.

END OF SHOW​



***

Monday Night Raw - August 13th, 2007;

“Only one man stands between us and the darkest night: Shawn Michaels.”



Let The Games Begin

Instead of starting with the usual Raw intro, the ring is set up for Carlito’s Cabana with Carlito already waiting in the ring, his music playing. Carlito, dressed in an orange shirt and white slacks, holds a green apple in his right hand and a microphone in his left. Carly’s music dies down, and the former Intercontinental Champion brings the microphone up.

Carlito: Welcome to a very special edition … of Carlito’s Cabana.

~ Crowd cheers

Carlito: And what makes ‘dis Carlito’s Cabana different than all the rest is the fact that Carlito doesn’t just have one or two guests tonight; Carlito has got FIVE. Y’see tonight, Carlito is gonna interview the other five stars in the Summer Games Gauntlet, and get their thoughts on possibly becoming ‘da number one contender for the WWE Championship. For ‘dose of you wondering, ‘dis was not Carlito’s idea, because Carlito knows that Carlito’s gonna win the Gauntlet, ‘den become the number one contender, and ‘den … become the WWE Champion.

~ Big pop for the arrogance of Carlito.

Carlito: ‘Dis was Jonathan Coachman’s idea, to get us all in the ring, before tonight’s huge main event, a Six Pack Challenge for the sixth entrant spot in the Summer Games Gauntlet. All right, bring ‘em out.





***MEDAL*** The crowd lets out a strong ovation, with a significant amount of boos sprinkled in as ‘The Wrestling Machine’ Kurt Angle steps out onto the stage, dressed to compete, with a T-shirt on as well. Looking as focused as always, Angle climbs the steel steps and enters the ring. Angle glares at Carlito for a quick second or two, before he takes up residence in a far corner.



***NOW LISTEN*** Dressed in a white suit and shades, John Morrison and Melina, dawned in a white dress, appear on the stage to heat. The Guru of Greatness takes a quick second before posing … IN SLOW-MOTION~!, before he and Melina continue on down to the ring.



***I’M COMIN’*** Heat fills the arena and we soon see why as Montel Vontavious Porter, dressed in a pair of shades, a balla’rific white suit and white durag, steps out onto the stage. In a black suit, Luther Reigns accompanies MVP, as do his Playgirls, Layla, Kelly, and Brooke, dawned in matching skimpy white outfits. Morrison, Angle and Carlito watch on as MVP and his entourage saunter down to the ring, and soon step in.



***OUT OF MY WAY*** The crowd gives a nice pop as Ken Doane walks down to the ring, dressed in a pair of black sweats, a black tank top and a white headband. The twenty-ONE year old phenom steps into the ring, and takes a look around at the other four competitors in the ring, before…





***SAMOA*** EVERYONE’S attention turns toward the stage, especially Kurt Angle’s, as ‘The Samoan Bulldozer’ Umaga and Armando Alejandro Estrada enter. The savage and his manager quickly walk down to the ring; Inside the ring, Melina stands behind Morrison, afraid. MVP nudges a fearless Reigns in front of him, afraid. Carlito comically tries to avoid eye contact with him. Doane, too, doesn’t look to be all too ready to be in the same ring with him … while Angle damn near foams at the mouth as he stares at Umaga.

‘Mags steps in, and immediately begins to walk toward Angle, and Kurt also steps in, but AAE gets in front of Umaga, telling him to relax. As the music dies down, the tension picks up, with Angle and The Samoan Bulldozer mere inches away from each other. Eventually, Umaga listens to his manager and backs up, while Carlito takes center stage.

{While Carlito speaks, all the talkers (Estrada, Angle, Melina, Doane, & MVP) are handed microphones}

Carlito: Once again, Carlito would like to welcome you all to Carlito’s Cabana, an-

Montel Vontavious Porter: Thank you, Carlito, thank you. It’s a pleasure to be here … but I think we all know that this shindig should’ve been hosted … on the VIP Lounge, with yours truly, half-man, half-amazing, Montel Vontavious Porter.

~ The crowd boos, as Carlito scrunches his face up. Angle and Umaga have yet to take their eyes off of one another. Carly brings the mic up.

Carlito: Yeah, whatever. Anyway … Carlito has got some questions, and the first one goes to you, Kurt Angle.

~ The crowd pops for Angle, who continues to look at Umaga.

Carlito:
In the Sum-

Montel Vontavious Porter: Y’see…

~ The crowd boos, as Carlito, frustrated, glares at MVP.

Montel Vontavious Porter: I don’t mean to interrupt, playa, but the way I would’ve done it is, I would’ve interviewed goin’ from left to right, instead of from right to left. Flows betta’ that way. But go ahead, you were sayin’.

~ Carly shakes his head, and lets out a sigh, before he brings the mic back up.

Carlito: Kurt, you were ‘da final man to make it into the Summer Games Gauntlet, do you think ‘dat you’ll be at a disadvantage, considering the grueling match you had to win to get in?

~ Angle doesn’t even move the microphone, still glaring ahead at The Samoan Bulldozer. After several seconds, Carlito shrugs his shoulders.

Carlito: Okay… nex-

Montel Vontavious Porter: Bad question. Bad question.

~ The crowd REALLY begins to boo Porter now, as he walks over to where Carlito is.

Montel Vontavious Porter: What you wanna do is m-

Carlito: CALLETE LA VOCA!!!

~ Huge pop from the crowd, as MVP seems taken aback, and Carly gets wound up.

Carlito: This is Carlito’s Cabana, not the Pimp Lounge!

Montel Vontavious Porter: Pimp Lounge!?

Carlito: Yeah, or whatever the hell it’s called.

Montel Vontavious Porter: It’s the VIP Lounge. And you should be takin’ my advice, instead of hatin’, playa’, because after I win tonight’s Six Pack Challenge, and go on to win the Summer Games Gauntlet, this TV host gig is gonna be the only thing you can fall back on … because the WWE Championship is out of the picture.

Carlito: You’ve been here for four months, and you’re gonna tell Carlito what’s gonna happen and what’s not?

Montel Vontavious Porter: You damn righ-

Melina: You know what, Porter? Instead of running your mouth, I’d be a little more worried about being in the same ring with the single greatest man that ever lived, John Morrison.

~ Crowd boos, as Morrison poses; Carlito and MVP turn to Melina.

Melina: In fact, maybe you and Carlito should get together and host a television show, because af-

Carlito: Greatest man that ever lived?

Melina:
You heard me.

Carlito: I thought Morrison was a girl for like two whole weeks.

~ Crowd laughs as Melina scowls at Caribbean Cool.

Carlito:
I mean … he’s got ‘da overdone hair … and he smells weird … like perfume.

~ More laughs as Morrison smells himself.

Melina:
So what if he uses perfumes. It’s called proper hygiene.

~ Carlito shakes his head.

Montel Vontavious Porter: I like to smell fresh for the ladies sometime myself.

~ All the attention turns to Porter. Even Luther Reigns looks at his boy and shakes his head. Carly throws his hands up.

Carlito: What the hell is going on!? This is supposed to be about ‘da Summer Games Gauntlet, and we’re talking about how fruity you two are!

~ Morrison and Porter react offended. Oh, btw, Angle and Umaga? Still looking at one another.

Ken Doane: This is ridiculous.

~ The crowd gives a bit of a pop as Doane speaks for the first time.

Ken Doane: I don’t know about the rest of you … but I didn’t get in this business to talk about TV shows and perfumes. I got here, because I love this sport … I love to compete … and that’s what I’ve been doing night in and night out since I got here … that’s what I plan on doing come SummerSlam, and that’s what I plan on doing later on tonight. I don’t have the experience that some of you guys have, but I sure as hell seem to be more focused, and sure as hell don’t plan on having a lack of experience stop me from becoming the NEW WWE Champion!

~ The crowd pops for Doane, and all of the superstars share a bit of a tense moment, as Doane adds a level of seriousness to things…

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Todos, eschucame-

~ The smarks leap to their feet, and many others in the crowd also begin to cheer for the incredibly awesome Estrada.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Everybody, listen - haha - to me!! My NAME ES ARMANOOOOO ALEJANDRROOOO ESTRRRRRRADA!!! HAHA!!

~ Crowd pops

Armando Alejandro Estrada: And I represent the single most dominant force in all of professional wrestling, THE UNDEFEATED, Umaga!

~ Mixed reaction for Umaga, who’s not even listening to his manager, eyes focused on the blue eyes of the Olympian.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Now, I’ve listened to ju joung kids squabble for long enough, but its time to put ju DUMMIES in jour place!! First off, if I were ju, John Morrison, I wouldn’t bother showing up to SummerSlam, because if ju wear perfume … ju aren’t man enough to stand in the ring with Umaga.

~ OH!; Morrison and Melina scowl at Estrada, as AAE turns to MVP.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: MVP! Jou’ve been here for four months … and ju have yet to receive a taste of exactly what The Samoan Bulldozer can do when motivated. Ask Mick Foley.

~ Boos for the reference to the brutalization of Cactus Jack at Vengeance.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: So I suggest ju take your Playgirls to the back, and have jourself a good time from tonight until Summer Slam … because on August 26th, it’s going to be anything but fun.

~ MVP glares at Estrada … but says nothing. Smart man.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Mr. Doane, I’m sorry … but … ju must be at least sixteen years of age to face The Samoan Bulldozer. Haha!

~ The crowd laughs a bit as Doane rolls his eyes.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: And, Carlito, pero, me amigo … ju got a lot of toughness, ju got a lot of guts for a little man. Ju went toe-to-toe with JBL in a Bull Rope Match, not many people can do that. But JBL … is not Umaga. And if ju try him on for size, I can promise ju … ju won’t ever be the same.

~ The camera closes in on the face of Carlito, who’s eyes have narrowed, determined. Estrada turns to Kurt Angle.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: And as for ju-

Kurt Angle: SHUT UP!!

~ The audience ROARS for Angle, who speaks for the first time tonight, and also for the first time, has taken his eyes off of Umaga and aimed them on Estrada. The other superstars in the match all watch as Angle approaches the scared manager of the Samoan Bulldozer.

Kurt Angle: I’m sick of the jokes, I’m sick of the speeches, I didn’t come for that. I CAME TO FIGHT!!!

~ Estrada gulps nervously, as Angle gets right into his face … before backing up. The crowd lets out a loud “ANGLE” chant, which lasts for ten or so seconds before Kurt brings the mic back up.

Kurt Angle: And … more importantly…

~ ANGLE … BEGINS TO WALK TOWARD UMAGA!! Everybody gets the hell out of his way, but Umaga doesn’t even flinch as Angle closes in…

Kurt Angle: I came to fight YOU!

~ Almost every person in the crowd has gotten up out of their seat, applauding, as The Samoan Bulldozer and The Wrestling Machine come face-to-face. Angle and Umaga both breath heavily as Estrada slowly walks toward his wrestler.

Armando Alejandro Estrada: Umaga…

~ AAE turns from Umaga to Angle…


Armando Alejandro Estrada: KILL THIS DUMMY!!

~ UMAGA DRILLS ANGLE WITH A RIGHT … AND ANGLE RESPONDS IN KIND, AND THE BRAWL IS ON!!!

The audience roars as Angle and Umaga begin to exchange right hands, and soon enough … CARLITO POPS MVP WITH A LEFT, and the two of them begin to fight one another. Morrison and Doane begin to fight as well, and now, all six competitors in the Summer Games Gauntlet are looking to kill each other, on the same night that they’ll be looking for the lucky number six spot!!

Jim Ross: MY GAWD!! All hell has broken loose here on the Cabana to kick of Raw!!!

Jerry Lawler: I knew that damn Carlito couldn’t keep things under control!!

Soon enough, Luther Reigns gets in the ring, and begins to assist Porter in battling Carlito, while Melina jumps onto the back of Doane, who continues to kick at Morrison!! Angle and Umaga end up on the ground, brawling around with one another, as Estrada cheers Mags on, and we fade out.

{Commercials}​
Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler run down the card for tonight: Six Pack Challenge; RKO Army vs. Rhodes/Smith; and JBL vs. Charlie Haas in a non-title match, and if Haas wins he gets a chance at the IC Title at SummerSlam.

In the first match of the night, one-half of the World Tag Team Champions, Trevor Murdoch, takes on James Storm. Both men are accompanied by their partners as they put on a decent, though relatively short contest. The finish comes when the match just completely breaks down, with all four men getting involved, and the referee throws it out at 6:53.
The ******* Wrecking Crew and AMW have it out with fists-a-flying for about a minute or so before several referees and officials come down to break it up.
While the two teams are restrained, Jonathan Coachman, the GM of Raw, steps out onto the stage. Coach says that he’s had just about enough of the brawling between the two tandems … and he’s had enough of people talking about how impressive SmackDown’s tag team division is. Coach says that Raw’s TT division isn’t about finesse like SD’s, but about brutality, and that’s just what we’re gonna get. Coach says that it’ll be the RWC defending their tag team titles against AMW … NEXT WEEK … in a TEXAS DEATH MATCH!!!! The crowd erupts for the brutal-sounding name for a simple hardcore match, while AMW and the tag champions stare one another down.

In the interview area, Todd Grisham stands by with the Intercontinental Champion John Bradshaw Layfield and Angelina Williams. Layfield doesn’t give Grisham a chance to even ask his question, because JBL immediately goes into a fiery promo, completely trashing the “charisma-less” and “confidence-challenged” Charlie Haas. JBL says that usually he would love to put the belt on the line against SummerSlam, but he’ll be more than happy to squash Haas tonight and put the kibosh on his momentum before it even gets started. Of course, Grisham mentions the fact that Haas made JBL tap out a week ago, which results in Layfield backing the puny interviewer down, before eventually storming away.

{Commercials}​
Backstage, Charlie Haas warms up in the communal locker room, completely focused and ready to go … until he’s soon approached by KURT ANGLE. The two stars stare at one another for a bit … until Angle nods his head with a bit of appreciation, and then exits the room as quickly as he came in. Haas lets out a bit of a smile before he continues to warm up.

Back at ringside, the RKO Army, Chris Masters and Joey Mercury, take on the two younguns, DH Smith and Cody Rhodes. The two superstars put on a solid match up, but in the end, it’s the “veteran” team who picks up the win @ 5:42, when Mercury pins Smith after a hangmen’s neck breaker.
Before anybody can even do anything…

…“Burn in My Light” hits and out walks ‘The Legend Killer’ RANDY ORTON with a STEEL CHAIR in hand!! Orton slides in and drills Rhodes with the chair, before he does the same to Smith!! The crowd boos Orton furiously, as he waits in the ring, while Masters and Mercury each slide out opposite sides of the ring, and reach under it. Masters pulls out a TABLE, while Mercury pulls out a LADDER!! Mercury sets up the ladder in between the two announce tables, while Masters slides the table into the ring and follows in. While Orton watches with a smirk, Masters sets up the table in the corner, then grabs Smith before leaning him up against the table. Orton then grabs Cody and lifts him up onto this shoulder, before running forward AND SLAMMING HIM THROUGH THE TABLE, RIGHT ON TOP OF SMITH!!!!
The crowd boos furiously as Orton rolls to the outside of the ring and climbs the ladder that Mercury set up, and straddles the top. Masters and Mercury get on either side of it, while Randy stares around at the thousands of booing fans as we fade out.

{Commercials}​
Backstage, Trish Stratus walks around one of the corridors like she’s the queen, fresh off of taking part in a three on one assault that effectively took Victoria out of action. Stratus arrogantly brushes off a couple of divas … only to be approached by Lita. Lita calls what Stratus was involved in last week disgusting, etc, and the condescending, but quick-witted Trish quickly responds, stating the last thing Lita should have a problem with are things that people consider disgusting. Stratus then states that she’ll do whatever it takes to become the Women’s Champion one more time, unlike Lita, who’s too busy servicing her boyfriend. Oh no, she didn’t! Oh yes, she did. Of course, Lita roars and then takes Trish down with a double leg!! The two divas brawl around on the ground for a bit, before a couple of the backstage agents break it up.

{Mac Note: Relax, it’s not the start of another Lita-Stratus feud.}

Backstage, Maria stands by with the Women’s Champion Mickie James and Beth Phoenix. Maria, of course, brings up the attack on Victoria last week, but Mickie sidesteps the question, simply stating that it’s a shame that Victoria won’t be able to make it to SummerSlam, and her fantastic reign will continue, getting closer and closer to the YEAR AND A HALF mark. Mickie and Beth smirk and plan to walk off … but Maria speaks up, stating that there’s an interview with Victoria that was placed on wwe.com a few minutes ago, in which the #1 contender GUARANTEES to be at SummerSlam, one way or another. A scowl comes over the face of Phoenix, but the look that comes over Mickie is incredibly familiar - it’s the same one she had when Victoria became the #1 contender, and the same looks she had last week…

Split-screen - JBL and Charlie Haas walking down the hallway, each man looking as focused as they’ve ever been for their non-title match up next.

{Commercials}​
Randy’s still on the ladder, btw.

The Intercontinental Champion and Charlie Haas put on a solid matchup, with Layfield relying on his talent plain and simple throughout the matchup - no interference from Angelina, no cheap shots, nothing; just talent. Haas, never a slouch in the ring, throws everything he can at Layfield to put him away … but to no avail. The finish comes when Layfield hits his mammoth power bomb on Haas, but instead of going for the cover, decides to put his stamp on the contest. Haas gets back up to his feet, and JBL charges, looking for the Clothesline from Hell, but Haas ducks it, quickly turns around and dropkicks Layfield in the back of the head! Haas gets back up, and DRILLS Layfield with a German … but doesn’t break the grip, and gets up once more. He then hits him with a SECOND German, but doesn’t break the hold then either. Haas gets back up and looks to drill Layfield with a THIRD German … but JBL grabs a hold of the top rope!! The referee tries to break the hold up, since he has the ropes, but since he’s distracted, Layfield delivers a STIFF KICK TO THE GROIN!!! The crowd boos furiously but JBL couldn’t give a damn if he tried, and scoops Haas into his arms. Layfield looks around with a smirk, and looks to possibly toss him over with the LAST CALL - but Haas COUNTERS INTO AN INCREDIBLE SMALL PACKAGE … FOR THE THREE COUNT @ 10:01!!!
The crowd pops big as Haas gets up yelling and screaming with intensity, as JBL looks around in complete and utter shock, S-Slam title match now set.

{Commercials}​
Backstage, Ranjin Singh stands by with ‘Mr. Monday Night’ Rob Van Dam. Fresh off a fiery promo last week, RVD keeps it up tonight, stating that for far too long he’s waited for his opportunity to come to him, and he’s lost the real RVD along the way. Van Dam says that if he’s gonna get back to the top of the mountain, back to the WWE Championship, this “polite sh*t” has gotta stop, and it’ll stop Sunday at SummerSlam against Shawn Michaels.
Before RVD can continue, however, a video package cuts him off. The V.P. highlights some of the greatest wrestlers of all-time, from Bruno Sammartino, to Jack Briscoe, Harley Race, Ricky Steamboat, Ric Flair, Bret Hart, Triple H … and Rob Van Dam? The video soon turns dark, showcasing some of Van Dam’s more spotty and hardcore maneuvers, and a couple of still shots where he doesn’t appear to be all that sober. “Is this going to be the face of World Wrestling Entertainment? Only one man stands between us and the darkest night: …Shawn Michaels.” Of course, the video shows Michaels making his courageous comeback in 2002, and every instance where Michaels can be found in a clean suit is shown. “At SummerSlam, the greatest superstar of ALL-TIME, ‘The Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels, defeats mediocrity … defeats danger … defeats…EVIL!”
The video ends and the crowd boos while Van Dam simply shakes his head in disgust and walks away.

Back at ringside, Randy Orton brushes off his designer jeans, while he continues to wait on the top of the ladder, flanked by his RKO Army…

“Metalingus” The crowd roars as the WWE Champion EDGE steps out onto the stage, microphone in hand, belt on shoulder. The Rated R Superstar asks Orton what exactly he thinks he’s proving by putting rookies through hell. Edge says he’s not a rookie, he’s the WWE Champion, the best in business, and plans to stay so after SummerSlam. Mercury tosses Orton a mic, and Randy’s more than happy to respond, stating that tables, ladders and chairs don’t know status, they don’t know rank, they don’t know prestige, and they’ll hurt Edge, just like they’ll hurt a rookie. Orton continues, stating that if he’d like to find out just how much, he can come on down. Edge thinks about it for a second … and then begins walking into the teeth of the opposition!! The crowd comes to its feet as Edge walks right up to the ladder where Orton’s stationed. Orton and his Army watch with a smirk … until EDGE BLASTS MASTERS IN THE FACE WITH THE TITLE BELT!!
Edge then takes a SWIPE at Mercury with the belt, but he ducks it, and kicks Edge in the gut, knocking it from his hand, before he tosses him into the ring. Mercury follows, lifts Edge up and drills him with a couple of rights hands before tossing him into the ropes. But Mercury gets set too early, and Edge quickly grabs him, and DRILLS HIM WITH THE EDGECUTION!!! The crowd cheers the WWE Champion as he gets back up to his feet, ONLY TO BE DRILLED BY HIS OWN TITLE BELT BY ORTON!!!!
Edge hits the canvas in a heap, while Orton puts the title belt down, and then drops down to the canvas like a snake. Soon enough, Edge makes his way back up to his feet and Orton leaps up, AND PLANTS HIM WITH THE RKO!!!! The crowd furiously boos the #1 contender, as Orton reaches down for the title, and lifts it high up into the air as he stands over the fallen champion.

{Commercials}​
Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler run down the card for next week, the LAST Raw before SummerSlam; The ******* Wrecking Crew defend the World Tag Team Championships against America’s Most Wanted in a TEXAS DEATH MATCH; ‘The Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels takes on Sabu, while Rob Van Dam takes on Marty Jannetty!; and a mixed tag team match, with the WWE Champion Edge & Lita teaming up to take on ‘The Legend Killer’ Randy Orton & Trish Stratus.

We get the entrance for Kurt Angle, who gets a thunderous reaction, before we cut to our final commercial break.

{Commercials}​
The main event is a complete clusterfuck of a match with Angle, Umaga, Ken Doane, MVP, Carlito and John Morrison all going at it in the ring at the same time. Angle and Mags are kept away from each other for the majority of the match, with a potential showdown between the two always interrupted by one of the other competitors in the contest. The finish comes when Carlito drills MVP with the Backstabber, and looks ready to put the match away … but Morrison and Doane both attack him from behind, making sure he doesn’t get the win. No fans of each other, Morrison and Doane soon look to attack each other, but are both clotheslined up and over the top rope by Kurt Angle!! The crowd roars as Kurt is in complete control … but he’s soon grabbed around the throat by UMAGA!! The Samoan Bulldozer doesn’t do anything immediately, and instead, holds Angle in place, as Kurt flails to get free … to no avail. Showing his dominance. Umaga then DRILLS ANGLE WITH THE SAMOAN SPIKE, and @ 13:21 covers him for the three count!!

Raw goes off the air with Umaga standing over a downed Angle, who frantically clutches his throat in a tremendous amount of pain, while MVP, Morrison, Carlito and Doane all stare into the ring with looks of shock, anger and disappointment, with the UNDEFEATED Samoan Bulldozer coming in to the Summer Games Gauntlet LAST. Odds-on favorite? They think so.

END OF SHOW​



***


Friday Night SmackDown! - August 17th, 2007; Uncasville, Connecticut

“I keep breaking the glass ceiling … only to have another one built by the time I turn back around.”



Déjà Vu

We open up completely cold this week, no video, no pyro, no commentary. The arena is rather dark this week, however, almost pitch black, though we can make out a couple of figures in the ring. Soon enough though, a spotlight shines in on the ring to show … ‘The Fallen Angel’ Christopher Daniels and Allison Danger in the middle of the ring.

Dressed in a black shirt, black shades, and black slacks, holding a microphone, Daniels sits on a chair, while Allison stands behind him. The crowd boos the diva and the number one contender for the U.S. Title roundly as Daniels brings the mic up.

Christopher Daniels: Nine days remain until SummerSlam, one of World Wrestling Entertainment’s premiere events of the year, the, uh, (scoffs) “The Biggest Party of the Summer” as they like to call it; gotta love that marketing team.

~ Daniels shakes his head, unimpressed, but continues.

Christopher Daniels: It’s funny. Summer, to most in this country, is a time for gluttony and excess. People drive their oversized SUVs, blasting the air conditioner - after they just finished overusing it at home - they drive their large cars up to their disgusting beaches; sands filled with cigarettes, and all other kinds of crap. God knows what’s in the water. Barbecues with guys cooking meat the size of small children. Hell, I’m sure most of the officials in this company are laying out on the sand right now doing exactly what I just said; some wrestlers probably are, too.

~ The Fallen Angel looks at Allison, and shakes his head again, before turning back.

Christopher Daniels: But I, on the other hand, don’t have that luxury. Y’see, if I take a second off, if I’m off my game for a split second, I’m out of here.

~ Daniels takes off his shades, and hangs them on the front of his shirt.

Christopher Daniels:
From day one, the higher-ups in this company have been looking for any and every possible reason to get rid of me. Sure they wanted me to come here, keep me away from the competition no matter how small the promotion.

~ A jobber or two try to get a “TNA” chant started, but no dice.

Christopher Daniels: That’s their M.O. Hire each and every indy talent they can find so we can have them on the roster … just so they can’t wrestle anywhere else.

~ The “TNA” chant actually starts to get louder (not much louder, it‘s still only like seven people), but Daniels talks over it.

Christopher Daniels: They didn’t mind if I was just … around. Just another piece to a worthless cruiserweight division; a division they’ve treated like crap for years, no exposure. Out of sight, out of mind.

~ The former CW Champion shakes his head, and continues.

Christopher Daniels: So what did I do? I took that piece of crap division … and I made it into the most exciting division in all of wrestling.

~ A couple of smarks in the crowd cheer loudly, as Allison begins applauding in complete agreement with Daniels.

Christopher Daniels: People paid to see me and Sabin go at it. People paid to see me and Kash. People paid to see me and Noble. Me and Malenko. Me and Chavo. Me and Mysterio. Royal Rumble 2007, No Way Out, Saturday Night’s Main Event, WrestleMania 23, Backlash, Judgment Day, each and every big event was just another chance for Christopher Daniels to take lemons and make lemonade. A chance to take a division that was dead, a laughingstock and make it the single most exciting thing in the entire sport, and that’s what I did, putting on four star classics each and every time I stepped into the ring.

~ The smarks in the audience begin to really get behind Daniels, but most others boo the arrogance of The Fallen Angel.

Christopher Daniels: Then … I was done. Finished. I’d done everything I could in the Cruiserweight division, so I decided to move onto something else - the United States Championship.

~ Daniels brings the mic from his mouth, and just takes a second to close his eyes, seemingly dreaming about the idea of the championship. The Fallen Angel then brings the mic back up, eyes still closed.

Christopher Daniels:
And just when the U.S. Title seems to be within my grasp … Bobby Lashley gets … “injured”.

~ The Fallen Angel uses air quotes, and then opens his eyes back up.

Christopher Daniels: Can’t have the WWE’s main eventer in training lose to that small, indy guy can we?

~ Daniels lets out a bit of a smile as he leans back in his chair.

Christopher Daniels: So it becomes a triple threat match for the vacant title at the Great American Bash, Matt Hardy (pop), Jeff Hardy (pop), and yours truly. Miraculously, both Hardys somehow end up wrestling for the title, though the record books show that my record since I showed up here is VASTLY superior to theirs. And not only do they get a shot, they have the numbers advantage, making sure that The Fallen Angel didn’t have a chance in hell of leaving with that belt.
But even with all that, odds stacked against me, two on one, I was still in it to the very end, the bitter end, and wasn’t even pinned in the contest. Matt pinned Jeff to become the new United States Champion.

~ Crowd lets out a loud batch of cheers, clearly all in favor of Matt Hardy as their United States Champion.

Christopher Daniels: S-


~ Daniels doesn’t get to complete his thought as a loud “HARDY” chant starts up, cutting him off. After five or so seconds, it finally dies down and Hardy’s SummerSlam opponent brings the mic back up.

Christopher Daniels: So right then and there, after that match, I should’ve been named the number one contender, right? No, because even though I wasn’t pinned, and even though I wasn’t made to submit, I was forced into another triple threat match for a shot at the United States Championship - a triple threat that I won.

~ Light boos.

Christopher Daniels: This company has done each and everything in their power to keep me from getting what is mine. I keep breaking the glass ceiling … only to have another one built by the time I turn back around. And I’m sick of it!!

~ The sudden outburst of anger catches the crowd off guard at first, but they soon recover, booing The Fallen Angel.

Christopher Daniels: Luckily, it won’t be much longer. I’ve sacrificed long enough, it’s time for The Fallen Angel to get his success in excess. It’s time for The Fallen Angel to be gluttonous when it comes to the fruits of his labors … and it’s time for others to sacrifice. Some will pay in the ring, some will pay in blood, but Matt Hardy, you, my friend…

~ Daniels reaches down, grabs his shades and puts them back on his face.

Christopher Daniels: You will pay more than anybody else.

~ Crowd boos

Christopher Daniels: You’re gonna pay in the ring, you’re gonna pay in blood, AND you’re gonna pay in GOLD on August 26th. No doubt about that.
But, Matt, you won’t have to wait until we get to New Jersey and SummerSlam to start feeling the pain … because … it’ll start … tonight.

~ More boos from the crowd, as Daniels looks right at the hard camera when he says it.

Christopher Daniels: And that’s the gospel … according to The Fallen Angel.

~ Daniels drops the mic, and we slowly back away from the number one contender to the U.S. Title, still completely dark with the spotlight still remaining on Daniels and Danger after those ominous words.

{Commercials}​
Our three commentators run down the card for tonight: The Rock gives us his third installment of the Rock Concert; The Hardys take on The Mexicools; and Stephanie McMahon addresses the “Uprising” situation as well as Mr. Kennedy’s actions last week.

The first match of the night sees the WWE Tag Team Champions The Carolina Connection taking on Andy Smits and Jimmy Sipowitz (~___________~) in a 2/3 Falls tag team match. Immediately, Benjamin LIES DOWN in the middle of the ring, allowing Smits to pin him, which puts the CC down 0-1, and the contest a little competitive. But, just like they’ve done since they “turned it on” a little before WM23, the tag champions then work as a flawless tandem, seemingly moving in and out seamlessly, as they destroy their opponents. Helms gets the win back, drilling Sipowitz with the Shining Wizard and getting the pinfall. That’s followed about thirty seconds later by a T-Bone from Benjamin to Sipowitz for a duke at and the 2-1 win at 4:35.

Stephanie McMahon, the GM of SD, stands in the interview area alone, ready to address the audience. Right off the bat, Steph says that World Heavyweight Champion Mr. Kennedy, after disregarding her orders not to attack The Rock last week AND effectively assaulting a few referees … will NOT be here tonight at the request of her. The fans boo the announcement, but Steph continues, and begins to address what Booker T & company said and did last week. Stephanie says she won’t be threatened … but she’s always in favor of confrontation, so here’s the deal: at SummerSlam, it’ll be Elijah Burke, Monty Brown, Mark Henry, Jamie Noble and William Regal going five on five against Finlay, Rey Mysterio, Chavo Guerrero, CM Punk … and a partner to be named later. Steph then says that tonight, though, in the main event, Henry & Regal will team up to take on Punk & Finlay. Steph then wonders out loud whether or not the fifth man will show up tonight: “Hmmm”.

{Commercials}​
Inside of Booker T’s locker room, the Booker Man, Sharmell, the New Breed, Jamie Noble, William Regal, Mark Henry and Teddy Long all stand, and Booker gives them a big speech, saying that if they want respect, they get a chance to take it tonight. Long pitches in with a couple lines of racism, which gets awkward looks from Regal and Noble, but the team gets on the same page.

Backstage, The Rock practices on his guitar, preparing for the Rock Concert tonight, when he’s once again approached by Santino Marella. Santino expresses his disgust with Rock for confusing him with a “valette.” Marella tells Rocky to just watch his little TV screen, because he has a match with Ric Flair up next, and after that he wants an apology. Rocky, completely baffled, shakes off the shock, and tells Marella that if he somehow manages to beat the greatest of all-time, The Rock won’t apologize - he’ll go a step further - and WRESTLE Santino next week. Santino seems satisfied with that, and leaves while Rock rolls his eyes and goes back to his guitar.

Elsewhere, ‘The Animal’ Batista and ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair have a bit of a talk, joking about the Money in the Bank Contract that’ll be on the line at S-Slam. Naitch says that he looks forward to the match as he’s been feeling better than he has in almost a decade. Besides, he thinks he can beat this new “mellow” Dave, before he slaps Batista on the shoulder and exits the locker room. A scowl slowly comes over the face of The Animal, before he follows Flair out.

{Commercials}​
If there was an odder pairing than The Nature Boy Ric Flair vs. Santino Marella, we haven’t seen it yet. Of course the match sees quite a bit of comedy throughout, and the finish comes when, pissed off, Santino grabs Flair’s MITB briefcase and steps into the ring, but Batista steps in the ring, reaches over the top rope and snatches the briefcase!! BATISTA THEN LEVELS SANTINO WITH THE BRIEFCASE, KNOCKING HIM OUT!!! Flair looks at a raged Animal in shock, while the referee calls for the DQ, giving Santino the win @ 6:21.
Flair snatches the briefcase from Batista and looks at him, asking “What the hell?”, while Batista continues to stare down at Marella, breathing heavily with intensity.

Much like in Booker’s locker room, CM Punk stands in front of the communal locker room, which not only houses the three other faces in the ten man tag at Mania, but many other (face) wrestlers. The relative newcomer, Punk, rallies the troops, stating that it took him a while to get here, but took some others in the locker room even more, so he’ll be damned if he’s gonna let a bunch of impatient pricks jump the line by taking him out. The vets in the room get behind the Straight Edge superstar before we fade out.

{Commercials}​
Much like last week, Stephanie McMahon stares at the phone in her room, but this time, she picks it up, dials a few numbers and places it against her ear. After a few seconds, and apparently no one picking up, Steph speaks: “Cena … it’s Stephanie … uh … call me back.” Steph hangs up the phone, and shakes her head, before we cut away.

Christopher Daniels puts his priest-like collar on his shirt, while Allison Danger watches…

{Commercials}​
The Hardys and Mexicools clearly have respect for one another, but Matt and Jeff don’t seem to be nearly as connected with each other as they used to be … at least not for the first few minutes. By the five minute mark and the first Poetry in Motion, however, Matt & Jeff are back on the same page and the crowd couldn’t be into any more, going completely wild for one of the WWE’s greatest tag teams of all time. The finish comes when it all breaks down, and Super Crazy ends up on the outside, allowing the Hardys to hit a tandem leg drop/splash on Psichosis. The United States Champion, the illegal man, quickly leaves the ring, only to come back in and drill Psichosis with the Twist of Fate, and Jeff follows up with a Swanton Bomb for the victory @ 7:21!!

With the audience continuing to cheer the tandem on, the referee hands Matt the U.S. Title, and then he and his brother embrace in the middle of the ring. The crowd is unrelenting in their celebration of the popular duo.

Tazz: Isn’t that cute?

Michael Cole: It’s been a while since we’ve seen this, guys. Matt and Jeff Hardy on the same page, this is a moment.

Joey Styles: And it couldn’t come at a better time. Matt needs absolutely no distractions if he’s gonna step into the ring against ‘The Fallen Angel’ Christopher Daniels at SummerSlam.

CRACK!!!

CHRISTOPHER DANIELS DRILLS JEFF IN THE BACK WITH A CHAIR!!!

The crowd boos as the impact sends Jeff crashing down onto Matt!! Matt quickly shoves his brother off of him, and gets back up to his feet. The Fallen Angel takes a swing at his SummerSlam opponent, but Matt ducks it, kicks him in the gut, and goes for THE TWIST OF FATE - but Daniels pushes him off, and rolls out of the ring!!

Angrily, Matt points at Daniels, threatening him, but The Fallen Angel simply smirks, and we soon find out why … as ALLISON DANGER NAILS MATT WITH A LOW BLOW!!! The crowd boos as Daniels rolls back into the ring and picks up Matt’s U.S. Title, before DRILLING the elder Hardy with it, taking him down!! Jeff struggles up to his feet as well and Daniels drills him, too, taking him out!

Joey Styles: It’s an all-out assault on the Hardys!! The Fallen Angel is making good on the promise he made tonight. Matt and Jeff are feeling PAIN here tonight!!

Tazz: He don’t look like he’s done either, Styles.

The Fallen Angel lets out a smirk, as he holds his hand out to Allison, who soon reaches into her pocket, and pulls out … A PAIR OF HANDCUFFS!!

Michael Cole: Uh oh!

Daniels takes them grabs the right arm of Matt, attaches one-half of the cuffs, then attaches the other half to the bottom rope!! With the U.S. Champ effectively incapacitated, Daniels picks up the steel chair and drops it in the middle of the ring, before he lifts Jeff back up and tucks him. The Fallen Angel whistles a couple of times, getting the attention of a recovering Matt … before he lifts Jeff up, and PLANTS HIM WITH THE ANGEL’S WINGS, FACE-FIRST ON THE STEEL CHAIR!!!

Michael Cole:
Damn it! Come on, that’s just sick!!

The crowd erupts into heat for the actions of Daniels, while Matt desperately tries to get free from the cuffs, but it’s no dice. Daniels looks at the chained champion, and smiles before he grabs the title belt, and places it on the face of a BLOODY Jeff, metal on face. The Fallen Angel then mounts him and DRILLS the title with a right … then another … and another … and another …and another … and another …and ANOTHER … and ANOTHER!!!

Joey Styles: That’s enough! He’s not even wrestling Jeff at SummerSlam!! He’s wrestling Matt! What the hell is the point of this!?

Matt screams in anger, as Daniels finally lets up, getting off of Jeff, who’s face is twice as bloodied as it was before, though the younger Hardy doesn’t move. The Fallen Angel reaches down and grabs the title belt, stained in the blood of Jeff, before he simply tosses it at Matt, and then rolls out of the ring on the opposite side. Once Daniels leaves, several refs and EMTs run down to the ring to check on the motionless Hardy.

Tazz: I’ll tell ya the point. He just sent Matt Hardy a message. He coulda’ did this to Matt, but instead he took out his brother, and that’s ALL that’s gonna be on his mind come SummerSlam.

Michael Cole: I don’t care what the message is, this was absolutely uncalled for. The actions of The Fallen Angel here tonight speak to exactly what kinda person he is.

Tazz: Yeah, a driven one.

Joey Styles: Driven or not, disgusting or not, he very well may be the next United States Champion come August 26th at SummerSlam.

The crowd pours on the heat as the number one contender heads back up the ramp after sending a MAJOR message to his SummerSlam match.

{Commercials}​
In the main event, CM Punk & Finlay take on William Regal & Mark Henry. ALL of the respective allies of both parties are in their corners while the four stars in the ring put on a strong tag contest with Finlay, Regal & Punk, three tremendous workers, carrying the majority of the action. The finish comes when Punk looks to his springboard clothesline off the top rope, but Long pushes him off, causing Punk to crash and burn! A massive brawl breaks out between both sides (with Long & Sharmell quickly heading for dodge), but inside the ring, Punk staggers up to his feet, only to be on the receiving end of a REGAL-PLEX FOR THE THREE COUNT @ 13:17.
Eventually, all parties end up on the inside of the ring, but eventually, the numbers advantage the heels have is just too much, and they begin to dominate. Just when it looks like several of the faces could end up on the receiving end of what Kash got last week…





*BOOM*



***SLOW CHEMICAL***

The crowd completely ERUPTS as ‘THE BIG RED MACHINE’ KANE IS BACK~!!!

Immediately, everybody in the ring stops what they’re doing and turns toward the stage, while Kane walks down the entrance ramp. Both faces and heels stare oddly as the monster steps into the ring, Henry and Long looking especially nervous. Kane then DRILLS Henry with a right hand, taking him down!! The crowd explodes again, and hell breaks loose in the ring again, with everybody brawling with one another. Eventually, the faces win out, and it’s punctuated when Kane grabs Regal by the throat before delivering a nasty CHOKESLAM!!!! The crowd roars as Kane, Punk, Finlay, Mysterio and Chavo stand in the ring, while Booker grabs Regal and helps him back up the entrance ramp, while the rest follow. While the faces watch, Kane raises his hands up into the air and brings it down, setting it off his tremendous pyro, while the crowd continues to explode.

{Commercials}​
Back from the break, Joey Styles does confirm that Kane will be fifth man in the ten man tag at SummerSlam. Our commentators also announce a boatload of matches for next week. First, a six man tag match, The New Breed teams up with Mark Henry to take on Finlay, Rey Mysterio & Chavo Guerrero; CM Punk versus Jamie Noble; Kane versus William Regal; and The Rock versus Santino Marella.

In the final segment of the night, we get the ROCK CONCERT III. With his trusty guitar in hand, The Rock does his usual schtick with these type of concerts, taking classic songs, and turning them on their heads in order to trash his SummerSlam opponent, Mr. Kennedy, and the city he’s in for laughs. The crowd isn’t quite sure how to react to The Rock, cheering when he insults Santino, but booing when he insults the town; cheering when he says he’ll take the belt at ‘Slam, but booing when he insults Kennedy personally. In the middle of his final song, “Turn Up The Trouble” hits and the crowd roars as Kennedy’s music plays. Soon enough, however, SANTINO steps out onto the stage, holding his forehead in pain. The crowd groans as Marella makes another appearance, while Rock has himself a laugh. Marella joins Rocky in the ring, and after a funny exchange of words hyping next week‘s match between the two, Rock places his guitar down, and the two begin to sing a song together, much to the delight/chagrin of the crowd.
While Santino completely mangles the lyrics, the crowd gives a much louder and much more positive reaction, as one of the cameramen at ringside, takes off his hat to reveal his platinum blond hair! The crowd continues to roar as MR. KENNEDY slides into the ring, and grabs Rock’s guitar from off the ground!! Rocky manages to turn around in time to see KK straighten up, and the Great One quickly rolls out of the ring, shaking his head, while Santino continues to sing horribly, completely oblivious to the situation. Kennedy actually lies against the ropes, waiting for Marella to finish up, and once he does, and turns around, KK BREAKS ROCK’S GUITAR OVER SANTINO’S HEAD!! The crowd pops huge for KK, but neither KK nor Rock seem to be all that effected by it, with Kennedy pissed he couldn’t get Rocky, and Rock just smiling away.
The show goes off the air with champion and challenger fifty feet apart from one another, with only one more SD set to go before they clash in Jersey.


END OF SHOW


***



Current Card for SummerSlam
August 26th, 2007
East Rutherford, New Jersey




World Heavyweight Championship Match:
World Hvwt. Champion Mr. Kennedy vs. ‘The Great One’ The Rock



WWE Championship; TLC Match:
‘The Rated R Superstar’ Edge vs. ‘The Legend Killer’ Randy Orton



Money in the Bank Contract on the Line:
'The Nature Boy' Ric Flair vs. 'The Animal' Batista



The Rubber Match:
'The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels vs. 'Mr. Monday Night' Rob Van Dam

---



Summer Games Gauntlet; #1 Contender’s Match:
'The Wrestling Machine' Kurt Angle vs. Ken Doane vs.
'The Guru of Greatness' John Morrison w/Melina vs. Carlito vs.
MVP w/Reigns|Playgirls vs. 'The Samoan Bulldozer' Umaga w/AAE




WWE Tag Team Championship Match; Two out of Three Falls Match:
The Carolina Connection vs. The Hooligans




Women’s Championship; Victoria’s Last Chance; 10-Minute Time Limit:
Mickie James vs. Victoria

(All parties are banned from ringside; if Victoria loses or time expires, she will never receive another opportunity at the Women’s Championship)



United States Championship Match:
Matt Hardy vs. ‘The Fallen Angel’ Christopher Daniels



Intercontinental Championship Match:
John Bradshaw Layfield w/Angelina Williams vs. Charlie Haas



Ten Man Tag Team Match:
Finlay, Rey Mysterio, Kane, CM Punk and Chavo Guerrero vs.
William Regal, Mark Henry, Jamie Noble and The New Breed



***

Match banners - Crazian
Show banner - JBLoser

***​
 
#1,436 · (Edited)
Re: 2007 & Beyond - Doin' It To Death

"Top five MCs BTBs, you ain't gotta remind me. Top five MCs BTBs, you gotta rewind me. I'm high up on the line, you can get behind me. But my head so big, you can't sit behind me."

Hello. I've missed you.

I visited this site for the first time in forever a few days ago, read this thread a bit, read Wolfy's and Legend's and Renegade's and Szumi's and KOP's some of PatMan's newer stuff and thought... "I used to love this, let's get back on the horse." :)



***


RAW Roster

Angelina Williams
- Fired by JBL as manager; M.I.A. since
Armando Alejandro Estrada
Beth Phoenix
The Big Show
- Currently injured*
Brian Kendrick
Brooke
Cody Rhodes
Chris Harris
Chris Masters
Christopher Daniels
DH Smith
Edge
- WWE Champion
Eugene
Gail Kim
Hacksaw Jim Duggan
James Storm
Jerry Lawler - RAW Color Commentator
Jillian Hall - Assistant to the GM
Jim Ross - RAW Play-by-play Commentator
Jim Mitchell - Absent from WWE programming for months
Joey Mercury
John Bradshaw Layfield
John Cena
John Morrison
Johnny
Jonathan Coachman
- RAW General Manager
Kelly
Ken Doane
- Intercontinental Champion
Kurt Angle
Lance Cade
- World Tag Team Champion
Layla
Lillian Garcia
- Ring announcer
Lita
Luther Reigns
Matt Striker
- Assistant to the GM
Melina
Mickie James
- Hasn't appeared on WWE TV since SummerSlam
Mikey
Mitch
Montel Vontavious Porter
Nicky
Paul London
Ranjin Singh
- Backstage interviewer
Rob Conway
Rob Van Dam
Robbie McAllister
The Rock
- Injured after being assaulted by John Cena the Friday before SNME*
Rory McAllister
Sabu
Ted DiBiase
Torrie Wilson
- Absent from WWE programming for months
Trevor Murdoch - World Tag Team Champion
Trish Stratus
Tully Blanchard
- RAW commentator
Umaga
Val Venis
Victoria
- Women's Champion
Viscera

Stables/Tandems:

~ America's Most Wanted - Chris Harris & James Storm
~ Chris Masters & Joey Mercury
~ The Spirit Squad - Johnny, Mikey, Mitch & Nicky
~ Viscera & Val Venis
~ The ******* Wrecking Crew - Trevor Murdoch & Lance Cade
~ Rob Van Dam & Sabu
~ Montel Vontavious Porter and The Entourage (Luther Reigns, Layla, Kelly & Brooke)
~ Mickie James & Beth Phoenix
~ Cody Rhodes & DH Smith

***


SmackDown! Roster

Ashley
- Absent from WWE programming for months
Batista - World Heavyweight Champion
Bobby Lashley - Out with injury
Booker T
Carlito
Charlie Haas
Chavo Guerrero
Chris Sabin
CM Punk
Elijah Burke
Finlay
Funaki
Gregory Helms
- WWE Tag Team Champions
Hardcore Holly
Jamie Noble
- Cruiserweight Champion
Jake Gymini
Jesse Gymini
Joey Styles
- SmackDown! Play-by-play Commentator
Josh Matthews - Backstage Interviewer
Kane
Ken Kennedy - Suspended by General Managers*
Kid Kash - Currently injured*
Kristal Marshall - Backstage Interviewer
Maria - Backstage Interviewer
Mark Henry
Matt Hardy
- United States Champion
Michael Cole - SmackDown! Commentator
Michelle McCool -Absent from WWE programming for months
Monty Brown
Paul Birchill
Psichosis
Randy Orton
Rey Mysterio
Ric Flair
- Currently injured; Batista assault*
Sharmell
Shawn Michaels
Shelton Benjamin
- WWE Tag Team Champion
Simon Dean
Stephanie McMahon
- SmackDown! General Manager
Steve Lewington
Steve Romero
- Backstage Interviewer
Super Crazy
Tazz - SmackDown! Color Commentator
Teddy Long
Triple H
- SmackDown! General Manager
The Undertaker
William Regal


Stables/Tandems:
~ The Carolina Connection - Shelton Benjamin & Gregory Helms
~ Simon Dean & The Gymini - Dean, Jake & Jesse Gymini
~ The Mexicools - Super Crazy & Psichosis
~ Booker T & The New Breed - Booker, Sharmell, Monty Brown & Elijah Burke
~ William Regal, Paul Birchill, Steve Lewington

(*kayfabe)

***

I'm going to recap both shows through Armageddon, the final PPV of the calendar year, hopefully sprinkling in full promos as I start to get into the groove once more, and then hopefully start with full shows and PPVs after Armageddon into the Royal Rumble. I plan on posting four recaps a week(two of each show), a RAW and SD on Mondays, and then another RAW and SD on Thursdays. I'll also post a recap of the last month or two sometime tomorrow. Let's get to it.
 
#1,479 · (Edited)
WWE SmackDown - October 19th, 2007

Game On


"Flair… I’m starting to get pissed off. You’re wasting my time, old man."


No pyro.

No opening video.


“IT’S TIME TO PLAY THE GAME”​


The audience ROARS, letting out a mixed reaction…

The first theme music of the night…

And it belongs to
“The Game” TRIPLE H.​

Hunter steps out onto the SD stage, and he couldn’t be any sharper, adorned in a grey suit and shades, his signature ponytail intact.

Joey Styles: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night SmackDown!. I’m Joey Styles, here with Tazz and Michael Cole, and we couldn’t get things started off any bigger, than with the co-general manager of SmackDown!, Triple H.

Tazz: Cole, Styles, we got word that Triple H has got some news for us here tonight regarding the World Heavyweight Championship, and news has been swirling around the locker room about what it could be.

Michael Cole: That’s absolutely right, Tazz. The scuttlebutt around the locker room is that Stephanie McMahon and Triple H have come to an agreement about the World Title. And what would that mean for Batista?

Joey Styles: Or Ric Flair?

Tazz: I ain’t got a clue what a scuttlebutt is, but I’m interested in what The Game has to say.​

Triple H gets into the ring, and calls for a microphone. He gets one rather quickly. He’s the boss. H’s music dies down, and so does the audience, because Hunter immediately brings the microphone up to his mouth.

Triple H: Welcome to Friday Night SmackDown.

The crowd cheers as H spews the line rather nonchalantly. Hunter lets out a smirk.

Triple H: I hate to be so… lackadaisical about all this, but the fact of the matter is… this show has been great week in and week out.

Cheers.

Triple H: I think it's pretty safe to say that No Mercy qualifies as one of, if not, the best, single brand pay per view of the year...

The crowd politely applauds as Triple H, the self-proclaimed King of Kings and the co-General Manager of WWE SmackDown! strolls the ring in a dark suit, microphone in hand. Hunter brings the microphone back up to his mouth.

Triple H: I don't wanna take up too much time here tonight, because I know we've got Ric Flair making an appearance--

The crowd ROARS for The Nature Boy.

Triple H: --one of... one of, the greatest wrestlers of all-time, but I will say this… No Mercy was great, in no small part, due to myself. I was right about everything I did last Sunday night. I was right about giving Randy Orton and Shawn Michaels a shot at the WWE Tag Team Title against the Carolina Connection.

Loud pop.

Triple H: And that was one of the greatest tag team matches in recent memory. That whole card was STACKED from top to bottom and it was mostly at my hands.

Boos.

Triple H: I know a lot you idiots out there in "TV Land" thought that when I became the co-general manager of SmackDown that I’d come out here and do a lot of grandstanding… and a lot of blowing my own horn and putting myself over. I’d push the guys I wanted to push and bury the guys I didn’t like… but the fact of the matter is that since the SmackDown following SummerSlam, I’ve done nothing but book the most exciting matches with the most exciting superstars week in and week out.

Mixed reaction. Cheers for the statement. Boos for the arrogance.

Triple H: From CM Punk (cheers), to Matt Hardy (cheers), to Rey Mysterio (cheers), and Charlie Haas, and William Regal (big heat), and Chris Sabin, and The Carolina Connection (big pop), these are the best wrestlers in the world. Period. End of discussion. Raw. SmackDown. These guys are the best. And they’re who I feature on this show.

Polite cheers.

Triple H: Because I have a very simple belief. It’s a very simple one. The best wrestlers should compete. The WWE Tag Team Champions should simply be the best WWE tag team wrestlers in the world… and that’s why Benjamin and Helms, the Carolina Connection have the belts.

Big pop.

Triple H: The WWE Cruiserweight Champion should simply be the best cruiserweight wrestler in the world, and hence, Jamie Noble is your Cruiserweight Champion.

Boos.

Triple H: CM Punk, one of the best young guys to come through this company in a long time is the Untied States Champion—

Crowd pops.

Triple H: And he’ll be taking on Charlie Haas a little later on tonight for that title. This stuff to me seems all very simple. The best face the best. Period. No muss, no fuss, no favorites, no politics……… The World Heavyweight Champion should quite simply be the best in the world. Whether it was Ric Flair, or Ricky Steamboat, or Dusty Rhodes, the best is the best, the World Heavyweight Champion.

I am the best of the best. Period.

LOUD mixed reaction for H, clearly getting riled up.

Triple H: Say what you want, but whether you like me or you don’t, there’s no denying what I’ve done in this ring. I’ve beaten Stone Cold Steve Austin, I’ve beaten The Rock, I’ve beaten The Undertaker, Hulk Hogan, Chris Jericho, RVD, Kane, Randy Orton, Ric Fair – the very best that this business has to offer, and I deserve my shot to prove without a shadow of a doubt that I am… that, damn, good.

The crowd helps finish off the catchphrase, followed by another mixed reaction. H takes a deep breath, calming himself.

Triple H: I want you to understand that I know what's best for business. I know what's best for SmackDown!. I proved it last Sunday night at No Mercy. I proved it every single week that I've been General Manager of SmackDown!, and I proved it when I made the case to suspend Mr. Kennedy--

"KENNEDY!"
--from the audience, followed by boos. H pays them no real mind.

Triple H: So, Stephanie, let's do the right thing here. Survivor Series! November 18th! I want my shot at the World Heavyweight Championship!

~ Mixed reaction from the crowd.

Triple H: Let's get this over with. Let's see if I got it or if I don't. Let's see if I'm still the best wrestler on the planet, the King of Kings, The Game! Let's, just, see.

Another loud mixed reaction from the audience as Hunter paces around the ring, waiting...

…and waiting...

…and waiting....

***I'M ALL GROWN UP***​

The crowd lets out a respectable ovation as the other General Manager of SmackDown!, STEPHANIE McMAHON, steps out onto the stage. Steph, adorned in a black power suit and a white shirt, looks as good as ever as she saunters down to the ring, her eyes locked on her husband. Her confidence can only be attributed to one thing: H needs her.

Michael Cole: Even though Triple H is the co-general manager of SmackDown, Hunter can't give himself a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship unless his partner agrees as well, per the orders of WWE's Chairman, Mr. McMahon. Therefore, Triple H's World Heavyweight Championship aspirations remain in his ex-wife's hands. Quite the impassioned plea from Triple H there.

Tazz: I think he makes quite the good point. If Triple H is one of the best in the world, he deserves his shot just like all the other big dogs around here. It ain’t right what Steph’s doing.

Joey Styles: Well, I don’t necessarily agree that it’s her fault. Triple H has brought a lot of this on himself, but let’s see if we can get this all sorted out. The Game has laid his cards on the table.​

Stephanie climbs in between the middle and bottom ropes and into the ring. She grabs herself a microphone while Hunter watches her. He even takes his shades off for the occasion. The music dies down and Steph brings the mic up to her mouth.

Stephanie McMahon: Hunter... you make a fair point, and quite frankly, I do think you’re right about this being unfair to you… in a vacuum. Let’s please not let the facts get in the way of a good story, I understand… but it was you, who had it advertised to the world that you were showing up to Judgment Day in May… only to turn right around.

Boos.

Triple H: I showed up.

Stephanie McMahon: It was you who attacked Mr. Kennedy from behind and hit him with the Pedigree at the Great American Bash.

More boos.

Triple H: He’s a jerk.

Stephanie McMahon: And you did the same at SummerSlam.

Triple H: He was still a jerk.

Stephanie McMahon: The fact of the matter is, Hunter, that you’ve done me no favors since you’ve been on SmackDown, and all you’ve done is demand and demand things, and caused havoc when you haven’t gotten your way. And… I don’t think I want someone like that representing my brand in the World Title picture…

Crowd cheers. Hunter's not pleased.

Stephanie McMahon: …partner.

Triple H rubs his beard and walks around the ring, thinking, contemplating, calming himself down before he speaks. After a couple of pauses, H looks over at his ex-wife.

Triple H: Let’s cut the BS.

H stops moving.

Triple H: Let’s put it on the table. Flat. You want to run this show by yourself. We both know it. We can smile and pretend to be happy all day, but the fact of the matter is, you’re a control freak, and you don’t like me. Fair enough. I want a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship. So let’s figure this thing out.

Stephanie lets out her trademark smirk.

Stephanie McMahon: Okay... Survivor Series... You brought it up. Let’s do it old school.

Triple H: I didn’t know you still had those kinda feelings for me, Steph.

Hunter smirks. Stephanie shakes her head.

Stephanie McMahon: Please. Five-on-five Classic Survivor Series match-up. You pick your team, and I pick mine. If your team wins, you get the very next shot at the World Heavyweight Championship, no matter who it is.

Triple H nods his head.

Triple H: I like it.

Stephanie McMahon: But if I win, you are no longer the co-general manager of SmackDown.

Crowd cheers a bit. Hunter thinks this over….

Triple H: I’ve got a counter—

Stephanie McMahon: Oh, Hunter. It’s a take-it-or-leave-it deal.

Triple H looks up, taking himself a deep breath, while Stephanie watches whilst barely hiding a smirk. Hunter looks back at her.

Triple H: GAME ON!

The crowd cheers as the match is set. Triple H puts his shades back on, and exits the ring, walking back up the entrance ramp. Stephanie has a look around at the crowd.

Stephanie McMahon: Let’s get started with our first match of the night, shall we?

LOUD cheers with the wrestling-orientated SmackDown audience ready for some action…

***KASH MONEY***​

Triple H and “The Notorious K.I.D.” KID KASH cross paths as Kash steps out onto the stage.

Tazz: Kid Kash coming out here, ready for a triple threat match, but my goodness, wheat a match we’ve got set for Survivor Series, Styles.

Joey Styles: Huge SmackDown implications in that one. Five-on-five Survivor Series style match up. Team Stephanie versus Team Hunter.

Michael Cole: There’ll be plenty of time to discuss that later on tonight, but up next, Kid Kash takes on Psicosis and Chris Sabin in a triple threat match on SmackDown!​

{Commercials}

1 - Triple Threat Match
Kid Kash vs. Chris Sabin vs. Psicosis


The three losers of the cruiserweight matches at No Mercy compete in a cruiserweight match. Our commentators remind us of the number one contender's match taking place later on tonight between Evan Bourne and Super Crazy, while our three cruisers in the ring do what they do best and put on a fantastic contest. The finish sees Kash roll out of the way of a top rope leg drop from Psicosis and then drill Psicosis with the DEAD LEVEL! But before he can go for the pinfall, Sabin RUSHES and SHOVES Kash out of the ring, getting the three count on Psi.

Winner: Chris Sabin via pinfall at 8:32.

Sabin celebrates like he's just won a World Title.

Joey Styles: Boy, have his standards lowered.

Tazz: Hey, a win is a win... especially in this division. The Cruiserweight Division is a murderer's row. There's a tough match every night. You celebrate when you get one.​

BACKSTAGE - WILLIAM REGAL’S LOCKER ROOM
William Regal chats up Bloody Fridays, Steve Lewington and Paul Burchill, all wearing suits… when Triple H walks into the locker room.

Lewington and Burchill immediately block Hunter’s path, standing in front of Regal like a brick wall. Hunter smirks.

Triple H: You two are rather intense, aren’t ya?

Bloody Fridays doesn’t smile a bit… and as a result, Hunter’s smile fades.

Triple H: If you two want a future here, I suggest you move the hell out of my way.

H means it. The scowl on his face tells the story, but the two youngsters don’t care… and don’t move, their expressions not changing a bit.

William Regal: It’s quite all right, gentlemen. Let our esteemed general manager through.

On command, Burchill and Lewington separate, allowing H through. Hunter gives the two kids a look that could kill, before he approaches a smirking Regal.

William Regal: You two have a number one contender’s match later on tonight. Go get ready for that.

The two give Regal a nod, and exit the locker room.

Triple H: You’ve got them well trained.

William Regal: All we have is the future, Triple H. You believe that the World Heavyweight Championship and all of your title reigns will be your legacy.

Regal smirks.

William Regal: No, sunshine. Randy Orton is your legacy. Batista is your legacy. The only thing that's going to matter is what we leave behind. Titles are temporary. Dynasties live on for hundreds... thousands of years.

H listens

William Regal: And those two, “Beautiful” Steve Lewington and “The Ripper” Paul Burchill are mine. Those are two future stars in this business... and in the immediate future, the WWE Tag Team Champions... and I'm not quite through recruiting yet.

Triple H nods a bit. He respects him.

Triple H: Be that as it may. I’ll worry about the future when it gets here. As of now, it’s all about Survivor Series… and I want you.

William Regal: Who else is on the team?

Triple H: You’re the first visit I’ve made.

William Regal: I’m practically blushing. What’s in it for me?

Triple H: Title shot.

William Regal: What if we don’t win?

Triple H: With you, we will.

William Regal: Agreed… but what if you don’t win?

Hunter scowls. Regal smirks.

William Regal: Write up a contract, sunshine. I’ll put my signature on it.

Hunter nods… and walks out…


BACKSTAGE – INTERVIEW AREA​

Krystal Marshall stands by… looking rather nervous.

Krystal Marshall: Ladies and gentlemen… my guest at this time (she gulps)… the World Heavyweight Champion… Batista.

BIG HEAT as “The Animal” steps into screenshot, title over shoulder, looking none too pleased. Krystal takes a deep breath.

Krystal Marshall: Batista—

Batista: You came back for more?

Krystal already begins to recoil a bit.

Batista: I heard you complained to the general managers about your little booboo you got at No Mercy. I meant no offense… you were just in my way.

Krystal Marshall: I didn’t—

Batista: You’re in the danger zone again. So hurry up… and spit your question out.

Understandably, Krystal looks ready to shit her pants… and Batista is getting more and more frustrated with the lack of a point…

???: Hey!

Batista turns around… as THE MIZ steps up to him. Krystal quickly takes off. Smart.

Batista: I thought I killed you.

The Miz: You thought wrong. I’m back for some more, bi-atch.

That almost makes Batista crack half of a smile.

The Miz: I want you, one on one, tonight!

Batista turns his back and walks away as he speaks.

Batista: Get Stephanie or H to set it up. I’ll meet you in the ring.

Miz nods his head with confidence.

BACKSTAGE – HALLWAY​

“The Heartbreak Kid” SHAWN MICHAELS walks down a hallway, dressed in jeans and an “HBK” T-shirt, apparently heading towards the stage.

Michael Cole: Ladies and gentlemen, up next, Shawn Michaels addresses what happened last Sunday at No Mercy, when he and Randy Orton failed to—​

MICHAELS GETS DROPPED BY A SHOT TO THE BACK—

BY RANDY ORTON!!!


Orton, dressed in his usual wrestling gear, quickly mounts HBK and begins to RAIN FISTS, LEFT AND RIGHT, onto Shawn Michaels’ face! Orton then lifts Michaels up, and GOES TO SLAM MICHAELS INTO THE SD SET – but HBK counters, AND SLAMS ORTON INTO THE SET!!

Michaels then gets onto of Orton and PUNCHES RANDY – but Orton counters, getting on top of Michaels and begins to PUNCH AWAY ON HIM!!

Eventually, several members of SECURITY get in between the two and pull the two former world champions apart.

“I’m not done with you, Michaels!” Orton SHOUTS, trying to get at HBK, and Michaels attempts to do the same, with only very large security officers keeping the two apart.

{Commercials}​

Back from the break, we’ve got Styles, Cole and Tazz on camera.

Joey Styles: Welcome back to SmackDown. Before the break, Randy Orton and Shawn Michaels got into a brawl backstage. Both general managers have agreed that both men should be sent home for the week to have cooler heads prevail.

Tazz: Yeah, but we’re not done with those two. I can guarantee you that.​

BACKSTAGE – INTERVIEW AREA​

Steve Romero stands by.

Steve Romero: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time… the new United States Champion, CM Punk.

The crowd gives a strong ovation as CM Punk steps into screenshot, wearing his “Arrogant, Indeed” T-shirt over his wrestling gear, and his U.S. Title draped over his right shoulder.

Steve Romero: CM Punk, last Sunday night at No Mercy, you defeated Matt Hardy to capture the United States Championship, your first title here in the WWE. But your celebratory period is short-lived because you defend your title against Charlie Haas tonight. What are your thoughts heading into this match up?

CM Punk: Well, I’ve gotta correct you on one thing there, Steve. My celebratory period isn’t short-lived because, when I step in that ring, it’s nothing but a celebration. It’s a celebration of wrestling. It’s a celebration of greatness. It’s a celebration that most certainly won’t stop tonight, because it’ll only stop with a loss and I’m not losing tonight.

Crowd cheers

CM Punk: Charlie Haas is a good technical wrestler. He beat four of the best in the world last Sunday night and that’s no small feat, but those five guys were fighting to face me. And I’m not one of the best in the world; I’m just the best in the world. Point. Blank. Period.

More cheers for the confident(/arrogant?) superstar. Punk lets out a smile.

CM Punk: Charlie Haas, I respect you, but my celebratory period continues tonight… and your hopes and dreams end with me.

A pop as Punk looks at Romero and taps his U.S. Title.

CM Punk: Arrogant, indeed.

Punk walks off to another cheer.

BACK TO RINGSIDE​

The Miz waits in the ring, warming up, jogging in place, as he waits.

Tazz: I gotta tell you. The Miz is either plain ol' crazy or he’s got way more guts than he should, but either way, he ain’t in for a fun few minutes here.​

***I WALK ALONE***


BIG HEAT​

The World Heavyweight Champion BATISTA steps out onto the stage, and once more, he doesn’t pose, there’s no pyro, and no theatrics, and he simply makes a beeline for the ring.

Michael Cole: Rey Mysterio gave a hell of an effort last night, but Batista just dominated him. The Animal ran one of the greatest wrestlers of the generation over last night.

Tazz: Ran through like a hot knife through butter… but what I’m looking forward to is what “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair has got to say tonight.

Joey Styles: I’m not looking forward to what’s gonna happen here.​

2 – Non-Title Match
World Heavyweight Champion Batista vs. The Miz


Batista eats Miz alive, toying around with him for the first minute and a half… BUT… the former reality show television star does have his moments, getting in a punch or two and showing a hell of a lot of guts. The finish sees Mizanin hit a dropkick on Batista, but it doesn’t take him down, only knocking him off the ropes. Batista comes back off and SPEARS HIM IN HALF for the three count.

Winner: Batista via pinfall at 3:02.

After the match, Batista lifts The Miz to his feet and DRILLS HIM WITH A DEMON BOMB!! The crowd boos, but The Animal pays them no mind, simply taking his foot and rolling The Miz’s lifeless body out of the ring, sending him to the floor with a plop.

BACKSTAGE – LOCKER ROOM​

Booker T, Sharmell and The New Breed, Elijah Burke and Monty Brown, chat it up with Mark Henry and Teddy Long.

Booker T: Look, about last night, Teddy. It happens. The only thing we can do… is move on, man.

Booker extends his hand, and he and Teddy shake hands, before giving a quick hug.

Teddy Long: Blood is always thicker than water, brother. These crackas always tryna’ tear us apart. We can’t let ‘em do it.

Booker T: You absolutely right, man. It’s just like tonight, when Monty and Elijah smack up ‘dese suckas The Carolina Connection afta’ they win their match tonight.

Teddy Long: The devil and the Uncle Tom walking around, getting cheers from all these crackas. It makes me sick.

???: Me, too.

Triple H walks into the locker room… and everyone’s antennas immediately go up.

Triple H: I know I’m not the most liked guy in this locker room… due to the color of my skin, which is rather ironic. I need your help. And that’s not easy for me to say.

Teddy Long: So you want us for your little Survivor Series team, huh?

Triple H: I want Booker. And I want the big man, Mark Henry.

Booker T: And why in the hell would we help you?

Triple H:Because with you, my team wins, and when we win, as the general manager of SmackDown, I promise each and every one of my team members a title shot of their choosing. No questions asked. Whether it’s the United States Championship, Cruiserweight Championship, the Tag Team Titles, or the World Heavyweight Championship… after I get my shot, of course.

Booker, Long and company all look around at one another.

Booker T: We want it in writin’. I know how slick you can get when it comes to promisin’ things.

Teddy Long: Like forty acres.

Triple H lets out a smile.

Triple H: Deal.

Hunter walks off…

{Commercials}

BACKSTAGE – STEPHANIE McMAHON’S OFFICE

Maryse stands in front of Rey Mysterio, Finlay, Matt Hardy and Carlito.

Rey Mysterio: So, what’s up, Maryse?

Finlay: What the hell is taking so long, princess?

Matt Hardy: Yeah, we’ve got things to do here.

Carlito: Waiting around like a bunch of idiots with nothing to do… Dat… das not cool.

Maryse: Ms. McMahon… is – how do you say –

Stephanie McMahon: Right here.

Stephanie swoops into the office and stands in front of them all.

Stephanie McMahon: Thank you, Maryse. I’ll take it from here.

Maryse nods and exits the office.

Rey Mysterio: Is this about Survivor Series?

Stephanie McMahon: That is correct.

Matt Hardy: We figured.

Stephanie McMahon: So what do you guys say?

Finlay: I’m in.

Matt Hardy: Me too.

Rey Mysterio: Me three.

Silence. Everyone turns to Carlito. Carlito shrugs his shoulders.

Carlito: Hey, don’t rush Carlito. What’s in it for me?

Stephanie McMahon: A pay-per-view paycheck, a big match, and… my eternal gratitude.

Carlito: Does that come with a car? Carlito doesn’t even know what that means.

Stephanie McMahon: It means, when title shot consideration is needed… or when it comes time to renegotiate that hefty contract of yours… I won’t forget the favor that you all did for me.

Carlito: Now dat… das cool.

Stephanie lets out her trademark smirk for the second time tonight…

BACK TO RINGSIDE​

With Evan Bourne and Super Crazy already in the ring, ready for their number one contender's match...

***A COUNTRY BOY CAN SURVIVE***​

The crowd boos as the Cruiserweight Champion Jamie Noble makes his way down to ringisde, title belt wrapped around his waist, wearing his usual jean shorts and a red flannel vest. Noble shouts some not so nice words at Crazy and Bourne before he joins the announce table.

3 - Number One Contender's Match for Cruiserweight Championship
Evan Bourne vs. Super Crazy


Bourne and Crazy? Spotfest! But an awesome spotfest, but the two athletic marvels. Noble doesn't go easy on either one of them on commentary, letting the world know what we already know, that when he steps in the ring with either one of them, he will have the decided technical advantage. "They can't wrestle like I do." Inside the ring, Crazy and Bourne amaze as only they can. And once the two have exhausted every single possible ounce of energy they possibly could...

Noble slides in the ring...

...AND DRILLS BOTH WITH THE CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE!

Winner: No Contest at 9:44.

Joey Styles: What the hell was that?

Michael Cole: After all that tough talk from Jamie Noble, that's what he does?

Tazz: Hey, he's the champ. He can do whatever he pleases. At least you got a great match out of it, right?

Joey Styles: But now we don't have a number one contender.

Tazz: Sabin won his match earlier.​

Jamie Noble reaches the top of the ramp, and raises his Cruiserweight Title to heat...

BACKSTAGE - ARENA DOORS


Randy Orton, now in a leather jacket, rolls his bag towards the arena doors... as he talks alongside... Triple H...

Orton is clearly incensed... but Hunter tries to explain something to him... very calmly... almost apologetically...

Eventually... Orton calms... and gives Hunter a bit of a nod...


{Commercials}

Back from the break, Cole, Styles, and Tazz....

Michael Cole: Ladies and gentlemen, at No Mercy, former SmackDown superstar and current RAW superstar, John Cena, came to the ring after The Undertaker's match with William Regal and delivered an FU to The Undertaker's brother, Kane, through the announce table.

Tazz: No small feat, Cole. We know about the history between The Boss and The Deadman but I thought it would die down after Saturday Night's Main Event, when Cena was drafted.

Joey Styles: Absolutely not. On Monday Night Raw last week, John Cena took on Edge for the WWE Championship when...***Censored by Mac***.

Tazz: Absolutely shocking.

Joey Styles: Then No Mercy happened, and this past Monday on RAW, The Undertaker...***Censored by Mac***.

Tazz: I'll tell ya, Styles. I've never been more excited watching the B Show in my life. This thing between Taker and Cena ain't over. Period.​

***REGALITY***

Accompanied by a tremendous amount of heat, Bloody Fridays, Paul Burchill, Steve Lewington and William Regal make their way down to the ring, where...

Booker T, Sharmell and The New Breed, Monty Brown and Elijah Burke, already wait. As Bloody Fridays and The New Breed meet up in the ring, Booker and Regal exchange pleasantries at ringside.

The two seem to be on rather decent terms. Both want to win this match... but with Survivor Series around the corner... there may be bigger fish to fry than each other...

4 - Number One Contender's Match for Tag Team Championship
Bloody Fridays (w/William Regal) vs. The New Breed (w/Booker T & Sharmell)

Both teams are evenly matches, and the two veterans, Regal and Booker, constantly shout out their tips from their perspective corners, much like a boxing or MMA coach would. In the end, Brown and Burke have faced higher level competition for a longer period of time than Bloody Fridays, and it't the New Breed who get the victory after Brown drills Lewington with the POOOOUUUNCCCEEEEE~~~~!~~!!!~~~~!~.

Winner: The New Breed via pinfall at 7:51. Burke and Brown earn WWE Tag Team Title shot against The Carolina Connection.

After the match, both teams gather in the ring... and Booker and Regal shake hands. The four youngsters don't, their youthful pride can't handle that just yet, still jawing back and forth with one another. Regal and Book tell their respective teams to shut up essentially, before Bloody Fridays exit the ring, leaving Booker and company to celebrate...

Michael Cole: Ladies and gentlemen, next week here on SmackDown, The New Breed will take on one of the finest tag teams that wrestling has to offer.

Tazz: The history of wrestling, Cole. In history. I'm not tryna be disrespectful to, you know, The Road Warriors or The Freebirds or Tully and Arn Anderson, or The Dudleyz or The Hardy Boyz or any of 'em, but I'd put Benjamin and Helms in that conversation.

Joey Styles: And after beating Shawn Michaels and Randy Orton at No Mercy, so would I.

Michael Cole: Ladies and gentlemen, Shelton Benjamin and Gregory Helms... The Carolina Connection.​

***Video Package on The Carolina Connection.
The package starts from WrestleMania 23, with their eight-man tag victory at Mania, through their fantastic feud with The Hooligans, one they started to dominate towards the end, up until defeating Michaels and Orton last night. The video ends with Tazz calling them "the best tag team in the world."***​


BACKSTAGE - HALLWAY

Walking towards the stage, Charlie Haas, stops on that last line by Tazz, catching it on one of the nearby TV monitors. Haas shakes his head, and gets himself back into the zone, continuing his march towards the ring.

Joey Styles: Up next, that man, Charlie Haas challenges CM Punk for Punk's United States Championship. That's next on SmackDown.

Tazz: Could be a classic.​

{Commercials}

5 - Main Event
United States Championship Match
CM Punk defends against Charlie Haas


Chain wrestling. Early and often. The two fan favorites (though Punk is substantially more popular) engage in a match beginning that would make Bret Hart and Kurt Angle proud. Eventually though, it's Haas who wins out on the wrestling aspect of their match, countering a Punk arm drag with one of his own and then quickly following that up with a nasty belly-to-belly suplex.

And just like at No Mercy, the new United States Champion shows that he is no dummy and has more than one trick up his sleeve, moving on to the strikes portion of his arsenal. Haas does his best to cover up and/or catch one of Punk's strikes, but it's of no use - they're coming too fast - and Punk eventually drills the challenger with one that makes him a little loopy, knocking him from the ring, as we go to...

{Commercials}​

Back from the break, Haas is in control as he has Punk locked in a Boston crab, working on Punk's legs and lower back, softening him up for the Haas of Pain. With the support of the crowd, Punk eventually reaches the ropes, but Haas simply lifts him up and hits an EXPLODER SUPLEX! He gets a two count for his troubles.

Haas lifts him up and goes for another, but Punk fights out of it with punches to Haas skull, breaking his grip. Punk then begins to get into a groove of his own, kicking away at the face of the former tag team champion, before he shoots him off the ropes, and hits a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Punk is feeling it, and as Haas staggers into the corner, the champ charges in and drills him with a KNEE TO THE FACE!!

Punk then backs up.. AND GOES FOR AGAIN - BUT HAAS CHUCKS HIM OVER THE TOP ROPE!!!

Punk's slams to the floor below, in a heap of pain, while Haas climbs the turnbuckle. The U.S. Champ finally makes it up to his feet... and HAAS LEAPS OFF THE TOP... DRILLING PUNK WITH A CROSS BODY BLOCK!!!

Both men lay out on the outside, as the referee begins his count. After a few seconds, both men begin to struggle back up. Haas - the more mentally clear of the two at the moment - attempts to get back into the ring... but Punk grabs him, AND PLANTS HIM WITH A BACKDROP!!

"10!"

Winner: Double count out at 13:41. Punk retains United States Championship.

The ring announcer announces the decision, much to the chagrin of the audience. Punk staggers back up to his feet on the outside and is handed the title by the referee - he's not happy either. Punk says he had Haas beat, and begins to reprimand the referee like a child that you have to let the match continue. "It's for the belt. You don't end the NBA Finals with free throws."

Haas staggers back up to his feet, and - as one would imagine - he, too, is not thrilled.

While Haas also begins to give the referee a piece of his mind, his eyes come across Punk's U.S. TItle. Punk notices the stare and tells him "My eyes are up here."

Punk and Haas begin to jaw back and forth with one another, with Haas pointing out that the crossbody off the top had Punk beat. The champ laughs him off.

And as champion and challenger continue to talk, with three words, Joey Styles guarantees that nobody will be tuning out.

Joey Styles: Ric Flair. Next.​

{Commercials}

NEXT WEEK ON SMACKDOWN....

United States Championship Match:
CM Punk defends against Charlie Haas

...and...

WWE Tag Team Championship Match:
The Carolina Connection defend against The New Breed

...and...

Eight Man Tag Team Match
Carlito, Rey Mysterio, Finlay and Matt Hardy vs.
William Regal, Booker T, Mark Henry and RANDY ORTON




END SD GRAPHICS



Back to-

-the arena.

Silent.

You could hear a pin drop...

...

..

..


***AlSO SPRACH ZARATHUSTRA***

ROARS.

MORE ROARS.

The LOUDEST ovation of the night.

“THE NATURE BOY”

RIC FLAIR.
Flair steps out onto the stage, looking as clean and sharp as he ever has. The Nature Boy’s face, however, is different from No Mercy slightly. Naitch looks slightly… down… saddened. He carries a duffel bag with him to the ring.

Joey Styles: Ladies and gentlemen, your eyes have arrived upon the greatest wrestler of all-time, no questions asked. “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair is a sixteen-time World Champion and has influenced a whole generation of wrestlers from Triple H to Shawn Michaels to Chris Jericho, and has personally trained a handful of others, including Randy Orton and the current World Champion Batista.

Michael Cole: And, Joey, it was that man, The Animal, who Flair loved the most, cared about the most, stuck with him the longest, until Batista turned on him, and left him a bloody mess. Now, The Nature Boy is back, but…

Tazz: But he don’t look like The Nature Boy! He looks sad, and what’s with the bag?​

Once inside the ring, Flair calls for a microphone, and gets one. He lets the music die down and places his bag down in the middle of the ring. Naitch brings the mic up to his mouth to speak, but…

WOOO!!!!

WOOO!!!!

FLAIR! FLAIR! FLAIR! FLAIR!

NA-TURE BOY! NA-TURE BOY! NA-TURE BOY! NA-TURE BOY!

WOOO!!!!

Flair can’t get a word out, as the SmackDown fans in the arena SHOWER the G.O.A.T. with heaps upon heaps of praise.

TEARS—
- begin to come down the face of Flair, who reaches into his suit jacket, grabs his sunglasses and places his shades onto his face. Naitch brings the mic back up to his face.

Ric Flair: I appreciate the love I’m getting from Peoria, Illinois right now.

WOOOOOO!!!!

Ric Flair: But, ladies and gentlemen, it’s been forty years I’ve been stepping into this ring, night in and night out. I’ve bruised or broken damn near everything in my body.

Flair smiles a bit.

Ric Flair: Night in, night out, I wrestled for half an hour, an hour every single night. My God, Steamboat, and Rhodes, Magnum TA, Sting, the Freebirds, Sting, the nWo, Booker T, Chris Jericho, Randy Orton, up until last year, and the Money in the Bank Ladder Match.

Flair walks around the ring.

Ric Flair: But… let me be completely clear about this. I’ve never been in more pain than I was at SummerSlam.

Naitch stops moving, and has himself a deep breath.

Ric Flair: I’m sitting in the locker room. I wasn’t feeling great. Heh, I had just lost my Money in the Bank title shot, I just lost a match to Batista, my body was sore, the adrenaline was wearing off… and then… Batista steps into the locker room.

A boo from a person or two, but most of the crowd is completely silent. You could hear a pin drop as the audience is soaked in by the story.

Ric Flair: I noticed the look on his face, so I said, “Dave, what’s going on with you, big man?” And… all he had the audacity to say to me… was… “Sorry.”

Flair shakes his head.

Ric Flair: And I’m so stupid, you know what I said? I said, "it’s no problem, Dave. We’ll figure it out.”

Flair laughs.

Ric Flair: So, I walk over to him and give him a hug… and Batista… The Animal - and he is an animal – takes me by the back of my head and SLAMS me into a concrete wall.

Silence.

Ric Flair: I can honestly say I’ve never felt anything like it. Blood SHOT out of my head. I laid on the ground, and I could not move. I had a concussion or something, and Batista climbed on top of me, and hit me with a left and a right and a left and a right and another right, and the blood kept pouring and pouting out of my head. And I’m sure the beating continued… but I was out cold.

Flair shakes his head.

Ric Flair: I’m not upset. My feelings were hurt a little, because I’ve trained Dave since he was a young pup in this business. We won the tag team titles together. I was in the locker room after he won the Royal Rumble. We’ve traveled up and down these roads together for the last few years. He’s like a son to me…

With his voice starting to crack, Flair slightly lifts his glasses off his face, and wipes some tears from his eyes. The crowd applauds, willing Flair on, as Naitch takes a breath.

Ric Flair: I’m not upset… because I can’t blame Batista. My wrestling ability has been fading for a long while now, but never did I think, that this –

Flair points to brain.

Ric Flair: Would ever start to fade. I didn’t think it was possible, but I’m no longer the Dirtiest Player in the Game. I started to care. I’m no longer Slick Ric.

Crowd boos… which is soon followed by a “NA-TURE BOY” chant.

Ric Flair: I’m not gonna fight it. Father Time catches up to everyone. You can’t go back. You can’t be what you were. Physically or mentally. So… it’s time for me to hang it up.

BIG BOOS FROM THE AUDIENCE

Ric Flair: I didn’t wanna have the big sendoff that they give the old timers when they finally decide to hang it up. I just wanted to tell you all why it was happening, and right now, I want Big Dave to come on out here so I can—

***I WALK ALONE***​

The World Heavyweight Champion’s music hits, and “The Animal” Batista makes a beeline for the ring, dressed in a white t-shirt, jeans and tan boots, carrying his title. Dave throws the title in the ring and slides in, immediately coming face to face with Ric Flair.

Joey Styles: What the hell is his problem?

Tazz: He’s got no soul, Styles.​

Flair takes his shades off and stuffs it back into his jacket. Batista’s eyes don’t leave Flair. Naitch brings the mic up.

Ric Flair: You wanna say anything, big man?

Flair holds the mic to Batista. Dave doesn’t move. The crowd boos.

Ric Flair: Nothing you wanna say to me, Dave?

Flair holds the mic to Batista.

Batista: Not “Dave.” Champ.

BIG-TIME HEAT. Flair takes a breath.

Ric Flair: Anything you wanna say to me, Champ?

Flair holds the mic to Batista.

Batista: Get to the point, Flair.

Flair takes another breath.

Ric Flair: Well, now my point seems kinda stupid…

Flair walks over to the duffel bag in the middle of the ring, unzips it and reaches in. He pulls out a World Tag Team Title belt. Flair brings it over to Dave.

Ric Flair: We won these titles at Armageddon in 2003. Your first title ever in the WWE. I had us replicas made, and for your birthday that next year, I gave one to you. And you and I both know it sits right atop the fireplace in your living room.

Flair smiles. Batista reaches over and takes the mic.

Batista: Not anymore.

Flair’s smile fades. Boos. He hands the mic back to Flair. Flair nods his head, hurt. He shakes it off.

Ric Flair: All right, I can see where this is going, and I’m not gonna waste anybody’s time anymore. My pride has been hurt enough. Just one more thing and I’m gonna get on outta here.

Batista watches as Flair reaches over into the duffel bag again and pulls out a… photo. Flair holds it up to the hard camera… and we close in… It’s a shot of Ric Flair and a bloody Batista inside the Elimination Chamber with their arms raised.

Ric Flair: That, ladies and gentlemen, is the night – Armageddon 2006 - that this man, the man we now all know as the baddest man on the planet, Dave Batista, went through hell to retain the World Heavyweight Championship in an Elimination Chamber match. He started first, and he went through five tough SOBs, but we came through – just like we always did – to keep the title. WOO!!

WOOO!!!

Batista seems to be getting quite annoyed by all of this… sentimentality.

Ric Flair: It came down to Batista and Kurt Angle, but I slid a steel pipe in the ring and—

Batista SNATCHES the mic away from Flair.

Batista: Flair… I’m starting to get pissed off. You’re wasting my time, old man.

BIG BOOS

Batista: Get to the point… or get put down.

More boos for Batista.

Flair takes a breath and politely motions that he wants the microphone. Dave glares a hole through Flair, and after several agonizingly awkward moments, Batista holds the microphone out for him. Flair grabs it… but Dave doesn’t let go immediately.

The two lock eyes, and Batista says, off microphone, “Get to the point, Ric.”

Flair nods humbly and takes the microphone.

Ric Flair: Fair enough, Dave—I mean, champ. It’s clear that whatever we had… is done. I thought this relationship could be salvaged… but I guess not. But for old times sake – please don’t be upset, champ – could we play the Armageddon footage, please?

Batista turns around to the titantron, as does everyone else.

Ric Flair: Show the footage with the steel pipe. I wanna show you all something.

Dave and the entire crowd waits for the footage to play…

except Ric…

...

…who reaches into his duffel bag…

…and pulls out…

...

…A STEEL PIPE!!!

THE CROWD ROARS

CRACK!!!

FLAIR DRILLS BATISTA IN THE LEG!!!

Batista drops like a heap of bricks, and FLAIR IS ALL OVER HIM, WHACKING HIM AGAIN AND AGAIN IN THE LEG WITH THE PIPE!!

“I’M RIC FLAIR, YOU STUPID SON OF A BITCH!”

CRACK!!!

FLAIR DRILLS HIM AGAIN!!!


With the crowd going completely ape shit, Flair then tosses the pipe down and lets out a “WOOO!!!”

WOOOO!!!

“WOOOO!!!”

WOOOO!!!!

“WOOOOO!!!”

WOOOO!!!!

FLAIR THEN LOCKS IN THE FIGURE FOUR ON BATISTA!!!

Batista writhes in agony, as Flair wrenches in the hold as tight as he possibly can!!

The Animal sits up, and though in pain, scowls at The Nature Boy with a face of fury. Flair lets out a “WOOOOO!!!” (“WOOOOO!!!!) and FLIPS BATISTA THE BIRD, getting another raucous reaction from the sold-out crowd.

Tazz: Retirement, my ass! Ric Flair set Batista up!

Joey Styles: You ain’t kiddin’! And now the World Heavyweight Champion is in a whole lot of trouble. Thank God for Ric Flair.​

Several referees run down to the ring and pull Flair off of Batista, bring the sixteen-time World Champion off of the current one.

Naitch continues to go wild, letting out “WOO!!” one after the other, all of which are reciprocated from the crowd as he’s held in the corner by the referees, while one of the officials runs over to check on Dave, who clutches his leg in pain.

Mike Chioda, SmackDown’s senior official, draws “Dave Duty” and asks Batista how he’s doing, only to have Batista SHOVE him down!

One of the other ref’s run over to assist Chioda, and Flair takes the opportunity, snatching himself away from the officials and DRILLING BATISTA WITH A KNEE DROP ACROSS THE HEAD!!

Cheers ring out all throughout the arena, as Flair gets back up to his feet and LUNGES AT BATISTA, hitting him with a quick right and a left, before he’s eventually pulled off by all of the officials once more!!

Michael Cole: Ric Flair has gone completely insane!!

Tazz: Ain’t nothin’ insane about it, Cole. Ric Flair wants revenge plain and simple. And he got himself a little tonight.

Joey Styles: But I have a feeling that The Nature Boy is far from done with The Animal!​

The referees have slid Flair underneath the bottom rope and now yank the crazed legend up the entrance ramp, while Flair shouts profanities at Batista.

Dave, however, can’t pay him any mind, as all of his attention is focused on his knee, which he clutches to.

“WOOOO!!!”

“WOOOO!!!”

Flair shouts over and over again, much to the adulation of the audience… as SmackDown fades off the air.

END OF SHOW​

***



SURVIVOR SERIES



WWE Championship; Fatal Four Way Match
Edge defends against The Rock, John Bradshaw Layfield and Jeff Hardy

---

Classic Five-on-Five Survivor Series Match
Team Hunter (Randy Orton, William Regal, Booker T, Mark Henry, ???) vs.
Team Stephanie (Rey Mysterio, Carlito, Matt Hardy, Finlay, ???)

(If Team Hunter wins, Triple H receives World Heavyweight Title shot.)
(If Team Stephanie wins, Triple H is no longer co-GM of SmackDown.)
 
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