Monday Night Raw
Monday 16th February 2009
Live from the AmericanAirlines Arena
Miami, Florida
*Opening Video*
". . . To Be Loved"
*Video Recap*
From Last Week
John Cena: Had it not been f' The Undertaker there's no doubt I'd be standing here t'night in a better mood with some a shiny gold title over my shoulder. The fact is I'm not an' I'm partly t' blame f' getting involved in business I didn't have to. Does that make it hurt any less? No, but like I said I understand it. It honestly doesn't make it any easier but right now the only way t' move on from all this is by clearing the air with The Undertaker. From his point of view I can see why he might think what's happened hasn't been a series of accidents how it's happened three times but I need you t' know dead-man that I have absolutely no beef with you whatsoever. I'm not gonna pretend I'm happy about what either of us did last night an' how yet again CM Punk escaped with the world title but we need t' get past this before it gets out of hand. Right now I wanna ask The Undertaker to come out here so we can settle this man-t'-man.
Cena turns & looks up at the stage, somewhat nervously anticipating Taker's arrival that he hopes to see with the crowd chanting "Undertaker."
*GONG*
A huge roar comes from the crowd as the lights go put the arena in darkness.
"Rest in Peace"
The fans go crazy as smoke blows across the stage and
The Undertaker emerges from it to another massive pop from the Vegas crowd. His eyes are fixed firmly on Cena in the ring, and Cena also has his eyes on Taker, not looking too comfortable, still very sorry for himself. The Phenom walks round to the steps and slowly takes them one by one, then brings the lights back on to the joy of the fans in the stands. Cena looks on, still not comfortable as a very intense Undertaker steps inside the ring and removes his coat, making Cena even more nervous. Taker drapes it over the ropes and walks towards him, staring right at him with Cena looking very uneasy.
John Cena: As I was saying dog, what happened last night, I apologise, an' I just think it's best we get all this cleared up so we can both move pas. . .
Taker grabs the top of the microphone and forces it out of Cena's hand, completely shocking Cena. He looks up at Taker and The Dead-Man turns his head, looking up to the Wrestlemania 25 sign hanging from the rafters, and Cena looks up too, seemingly reading Taker's mind, and as they turn to face each other with Taker looking incredibly serious, he grabs Cena by the throat. The fans cheer and Taker lifts him up off the mat for the chokeslam, but Cena jumps free, landing on his feet and reacts in a flash by lifting Taker up off the mat, on to his shoulders and plants him with the F-U.
The crowd erupts, mostly with boos as Cena looks down in shock at Taker flat on his back thanks to him and he takes another look up at the Wrestlemania sign before looking into the crowd that are mostly booing him. He looks down at Taker again, seemingly regretting his actions and he takes his leave, heading back up the ramp as Taker sits right back up to a pop from the Vegas fans. Cena turns round on the ramp and looks down to see Taker glaring fiercely at him, and Cena doesn't know what to think as he turns back and heads back up the ramp to walk backstage, leaving a furious Taker watching his every step from the ring.
***
From Smackdown Last Friday
Michael Cole: There's a lot of people including myself making assumptions as to what happened on Raw. It looked as if he was challenging you to a match at Wrestlemania. I know a challenge wasn't officially made but the belief is that is what he had or has in mind. If that is indeed the case which most believe it is, what is your response to the speculation? Also, what would your response be if indeed you were challenged to a match at Wrestlemania by The Undertaker?
John Cena: Y'know I've been asking myself those same questions all week long. There's no one who wants t' know what the deal is more than me let me tell ya. I was stood barely a foot apart from him an' ven I don't know if it was officially a challenge, but the impression I got, it sure felt like it.
Michael Cole: If you believe that t' be the case, how exactly do you feel about the prospect of accepting a challenge to face the man who is 16 an' 0 at Wrestlemania?
"UNDERTAKER. . . UNDERTAKER"
Cena turns & looks into the crowd.
John Cena: Honestly? How exactly are you supposed t' feel about the thought of facing a man who's a legend even away from Wrestlemania? That's what The Undertaker is, an absolute legend, but at Wrestlemania, the biggest stage of them all, there are no words t' describe his accomplishments. He's had 16 matches there an' won them all. That simply is an unbelievable achievement. It's enough to have anyone going into Wrestlemania already thinking they've lost before the bell's even rung. The thought of facing The Undertaker's intimidating enough even before you look at that record. T' put it frankly Cole, you'd have t' be almost crazy t' want t' walk in t' Wrestlemania an' face The Undertaker.
It's a challenge like no other that comes along once a year. The streak year on year becomes more impressive. The streak has become as much of a legend as The Undertaker himself. It takes guts to accept that challenge but it takes more than guts to end the streak. One thing I've always had though is guts. The thought of walking down to this ring at Wrestlemania 25 against the legend and his streak is something that doesn't scare me. If the challenge is out there. . .
"No Chance In Hell"
Mr McMahon walks out to the stage to a big pop holding a microphone looking to be in a very serious mood indeed with Cena & Cole turning to look up at him.
Mr. McMahon: John I apologise for interrupting but there's something that I think I need t' say before you make any decision as far as The Undertaker is concerned. The situation you find yourself in in regard to The Undertaker's involvement in your match at No Way Out with CM Punk also needs t' be resolved. It was abundantly clear I think to ev'ryone that you had CM Punk beat and you were going to leave the new World Heavyweight Champion.
*Mixed*
Mr. McMahon: That John, yet again leaves us in the same position we've been in f' months as to who deserves t' be World Champion, you or Punk. Now it seems perfectly fitting t' me that we decide this once an' f' all with one final match between you an' Punk for the world title at Wrestlemania.
*Strong Mixed Reaction*
Cena looks shocked, completely thrown by Vince's twist in the tale.
Mr. McMahon: That obviously would mean John that if this challenge exists or not from The Undertaker, you would be unable to fight for the chance to become World Heavyweight Champion.
John Cena: . . . Vince let me stop you there before this whole situation gets out of control. I already had a lot t' think about, but now. . . Y'know what I can't make a decision in the heat of the moment. Vince I appreciate what you're sayin', an' you're right. There's nothing I want more than t' beat CM Punk f' the World Heavyweight Championship, but at the same time I've never been one t' duck a challenge, if that's what this is. I need time t' think. Hopefully by Monday night I'll be able to make a decision that I can tell The Undertaker. . .
Mr. McMahon: . . . I respect that, but John I have t' tell you that unless you make a decision by then I'll have t' look elsewhere as t' who will challenge Punk at Wrestlemania. Just so we're clear you understand that right?
John Cena: Absolutely, 100%. I'll have my decision Monday night live on Raw. That's a promise.
"My Time Is Now" hits again as Cena looks into the crowd, taking in the reaction with Vince still far from satisfied looking down at the ring.
Jim Ross: Welcome ev'ryone. We're live t'night in Miami Florida from the American Airlines Arena, six weeks away from Wrestlemania, an' what a night it's gonna be. . .
Jim Ross: . . . 'cause right here live t'night, after a week of non-stop speculation,
John Cena will tell the world just who he will face at Wrestlemania, whether it will be The Undertaker or if he'll challenge
CM Punk one more time for the World Heavyweight Championship.
Jerry Lawler: What a dilemma JR. Personally I wouldn't wanna face The Undertaker at Wrestlemania but I understand why John Cena likes the idea of that challenge, but at the same time he has the chance to beat CM Punk after ev'rything they've been through for the world title. I don't know what he's going t' do.
Jim Ross: I don't think anyone does but what we do know is what The Rock is going t' do. He's back on Raw in his hometown of Miami to announce the first inductee of the 2009 WWE Hall of Fame. It's been a long time since we've had The Rock on Raw.
Jerry Lawler: It sure has JR. I f' one can't wait. He's going t' blow the roof of this place t'night.
"Sexy Boy"
Everyone in the arena jumps up to their feet and give the
WWE Champion,
Shawn Michaels a rapturous standing ovation as he walks out to the stage with his WWE title draped over his shoulder. The Heartbreak Kid's looking fairly relaxed tonight in his casual gear, looking out into the stands, clearly appreciating the reception with a smile on his face, clapping them as he heads down the ramp towards the ring.
*Video Recap*
From Last Week
Triple H pours water over his head and sets off down the ramp to the ring. He stops & looks at the cage, tosses the water bottle to the side and walks to the door, then steps inside to join the referee & Lilian Garcia. He walks towards her and demands the microphone, worrying her slightly and she hands it over as the number one contender for the WWE title's music is cut, bringing out the boos even more.
Triple H: Shawn, I know you're watching. I've got a simple message for you. Now I have my rematch it doesn't matter what our history is. It's about one thing. It's about one goal, reclaiming what should still be mine, what you stole from me at the Royal Rumble. . . the WWE Championship.
*More Heat*
Triple H: I don't care how good friends we once were. As of right now you are the enemy. I will do whatever I have to t' get my title back. If I have t' beat you up so bad it ends your career, that's what I'll do. I did it t' Ric an' I did it t' Batista. I've got no problem making you the next victim if that's what it takes.
*More Boos*
Triple H: I will win back the WWE title. I don't care if you call yourself Mr Wrestlemania where you claim t' be king. The thing is I'm the King Shawn, The King of Kings, but most importantly I'm the next WWE Champion. All that's waiting f' you is your ranch in San Antonio you'll be going back to crippled without the WWE title and with your tail between your legs. That Shawn
will happen. I guarantee it.
*More Heat*
Triple H: In seven weeks at Wrestlemania when I step inside this ring with Mr Wrestlemania, The Showstopper, I
WILL stop the show, once and for all.
*The Main Event*
Steel Cage Match
Randy Orton vs. Triple H
Both were in a bad way but Trips was first to react and he started crawling towards the door. The ref opened it and a massive pop broke out in the stands, and as Triple H made it up to his knees and stuck his head through the ropes with Orton crawling behind him, Shawn Michaels appeared by the door, grabbed it and slammed it into Triple H's face to an almighty cheer from the Vegas fans. The Game turned back in a spin, right into an RKO from Orton who dived on top of him to make the cover, getting the three to get another huge pop from the crowd. They were cheering like mad as a very serious Heartbreak Kid walked over to the timekeeper's table and grabbed a microphone as a tired & sore Orton got his arm raised by the referee. He left the ring and had a brief awkward exchange with the WWE Champion before Michaels entered the cage with the microphone & his WWE title. With The Game slowly coming to, eyes all over the shop though, Michaels walked right towards him, kneeling down to get up close to his Wrestlemania opponent.
Shawn Michaels: You wanna take this from me Hun'er? You wan' a battle?
You got it.
*Big Pop*
Shawn Michaels: But at Wrestlemania Jack it's gonna end one way an' one way only my man.
The Heartbreak Kid backs up to the corner and drops the microphone and the WWE title, tuning up the band with the fans going nuts, stomping their feet in tandem, clapping their hands too. The Game has no idea as he claws his way back up, eyes all over the shop, and as he turns round, Michaels explodes out of the corner and takes his head off with some sweet chin music. It's deafening in the Thomas & Mack Center as Michaels stares down at him and does a DX chop.
"Sexy Boy" blasts out to a huge pop as Shawn turns back to pick his title up off the mat. The Showstopper lifts his title up into the air, standing over the fallen number one contender he'll meet at Wrestlemania.
The WWE Champion is standing in the middle of the ring holding a microphone and his music cuts, bringing out a whole host of "HBK" chants.
Shawn Michaels: It's always great t' be back in
Miami.
*Big Pop*
Shawn Michaels: It's that time of the year boys an' girls. We're on the road to Wrestle-
mania.
*More Cheers*
Shawn Michaels: I can tell Miami's excited. I'm excited too. Hell ev'ryone's excited. It's the sports entertainment version of the Superbowl an' you should be excited. There's nothin' like it. I've been with this company over 20 years an' ev'ry year the feeling stays the same, but this year it's even bigger. That's because this year is the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania.
*Pop*
Shawn Michaels: 25 years of Wrestlemania an' once again, look who's the main event.
*More Cheers*
Shawn Michaels: This'll be my third straight year in the main event of Wrestlemania, an' this year f' the first time ever we're takin' the party t' the UK.
*Mixed*
Shawn Michaels: It's been a long time comin' let me tell ya. 17 years ago yours truly went over t' Wembley Stadium in front of 80,000 screamin' fans, an' that without question was one of the best nights of not just my career but my entire life. I've been lucky enough t' take part in some incredible events, but that night was somethin' else. Goin' outside the United States was a big deal, as it is now an' I can't wait t' go back. I love this country as much as anyone but Wrestlemania at the new Wembley Stadium is going t' be something special.
*Pop*
Shawn Michaels: There's just me an' The Undertaker left from that incredible night but hist'ry plays a part in another way. This year I'll be competing against someone I have a whole lot o'hist'ry with. You know him by the name Triple H.
*Major Heat*
Shawn Michaels: T' me he's Hun'er, an' even though we've talked about this moment f' years an' how great it is t' be doing it on the 25th anniversary f' the WWE title, it seems that's not enough f' my old buddy. It seems he wants t' send me back t' my ranch in Texas. Not just that he wants t' send me back t' my wife an' kids crippled and end my career.
*Major Heat*
Shawn Michaels: Y'know what? That's fine 'cause that doesn't mean it's gonna happen. If you wanna end my career Hun'er, give it y'best shot my man. You might think this is a battle I can't win but you know as well as I do Jack that this, this is my stage. You can play it down all you want, there's a reason I got the name of Mr. Wrestlemania, an' in six weeks you're gonna find out why when I stand in this ring like I am right now, standing tall with the WWE Championship.
Shawn lifts the title up and gets a big pop from the Miami crowd.
Shawn Michaels: We've met before an' we might meet again, but against The Main Event in the main event on the stage The Showstopper shines, you have no idea Hun'er. You won't be the first t' take it f' gran'ed, an' yeah you might've ended Ric Flair's career last year an' played a big part in Batista calling it a day, but that doesn't mean you're gonna stop me too.
*Pop*
Shawn Michaels: You said last week this is gonna be a battle, a battle apparently I can't win, so I thought I'd show you that there's plenty of fight left in the old dog yet.
*More Cheers*
Shawn Michaels: I'm ready f' a battle. I'm ready f' a war. I'm ready f' whatever you're gonna throw at me Hun'er. I've been in many battles no one thought I could win. Hell I was in one you thought was impossible at the Royal Rumble, an' look what happened. Even at this stage of my career I still came out on top because despite all the nicknames one thing I've got that I've always had is heart. I've got one big heart Jack, an' at Wrestlemania it takes me t' levels like no other, a level that you Hun'er won't be able t' deal with.
*Pop*
Shawn Michaels: The sooner you realise this is a battle I can win, the better f' your sake. Make no mistake though my man, I know how bad you want this. I know it's personal an' that's fine by me but I'm ready. I'm ready for it all. I retained the world title last year in the main event an' this year I'll do it again.
*Big Pop*
"Behold the King, the King of Kings. . ."
'The King of Kings' Triple H with fury written all over his as face slowly walks out to the stage, stopping & staring right down at Michaels who stares right back up at him. The former WWE Champion turns briefly to the crowd, giving them mean looks too before making his way down to the ring, eyes fixed firmly on The Heartbreak Kid all the way with Shawn also not taking his eyes off his Wrestlemania opponent. The Game makes his way up the steps and enters the ring, getting even angrier as he walks right up to Michaels, staring right at him but brushes past him to walk over to the apron, getting a microphone handed to him. His music stops, bringing out the heat as he turns back and walks into the centre of the ring, again sights set firmly on Michaels.
Triple H: You're right about one thing. After last week an' that cheap shot it's not just a battle, it's a war. That's if I don't beat the crap out of you right here right now.
Shawn smirks, clearly not intimidated despite the anger on Triple H's face being there for all to see.
Shawn Michaels: Hun'er you're the one who declared war on me. Last week was my way of letting you know I'm ready. I know just how much you wanna kick my ass an' take this title back, an' like I said, that doesn't mean it's gonna happen. This whole man on a mission thing you've got going on, we both know why it is. The whole reason you wanna beat me up so bad is 'cause I did the impossible, the thing you said couldn't be done at the Royal Rumble. You're the one that said that it was impossible t' defend the WWE title by starting the Royal Rumble match an' going all the way t' the end t' be the last man standing. You were right about one thing too. You couldn't do it. There's only one problem though right Hun'er? I did. I did the impossible.
*Pop*
Shawn Michaels: You might've been number one but we both know that number one or number two like I was it makes no diff'rence. When that bell rung I was there at the start with you, only when the bell rang at the end it was just me. . . just me an' the WWE Championship.
Shawn looks to the title and smiles, winding The King of Kings up even more.
Shawn Michaels: It's not the first time I've gone the whole way in the Rumble, an' like so many people have said f' a long time Jack, you've tried t' fight your way past the shadow of The Heartbreak Kid.
*Big Pop*
Triple H is fuming but somehow manages to keep it all inside as he stares furiously at Michaels.
Shawn Michaels: All your career you've known that an' done ev'rything in your power to eclipse Shawn Michaels, but even now you still can't do it, an' that hurts doesn't it? I can see it in your eyes how much that pisses you off.
Triple H: You're kidding yourself Shawn. You may have won the Royal Rumble but the fact is I've accomplished way more an' won more world titles than you ever have. I never had t' resort t' screwing someone over either like you did in Montreal.
*Heat*
Triple H: Believe what you want Shawn. You've always had a big mouth. I know how much you fear getting in the ring with me at Wrestlemania. You more than anyone know what I'm capable of. You know that I can end your career at Wrestlemania, Mr. Wrestlemania or not, I guarantee that it will be your last match. If you're so confident you'll beat me in London, prove it. Put your career on the line Shawn, I dare you.
Again that brings a smirk to the face of the WWE Champion.
Shawn Michaels: Hun'er, I'm not gonna do that.
*Big Pop*
Shawn Michaels: I'm not gonna do it f' a couple of reasons. F' one the title's already on the line. My career doesn't need t' be. You beat me you get the title back, you win regardless. Most importantly though Hun'er, only one person's gonna decide when it's time my career comes to an end, an' that's Shawn Michaels.
*Pop*
Shawn Michaels: I'll call it a day when the time's right. You don't get t' decide that, I do.
Triple H: Just as I thought. As always you're all talk. You've left me with no choice. You f'got t' realise that there's another way your career can end, if someone ends it for you. The decision can be taken out of your hands Shawn. That's what'll happen when I beat you within an inch of your life.
*Heat*
Triple H: Taking that title isn't enough. Your career's in my hands at Wrestlemania and I will end it. Not only that, I'll enjoy it too.
Michaels clearly isn't fazed or worried by the threats, keeping his cool.
Shawn Michaels: You really wanna end my career so bad? How about you try it right now?
*Massive Pop*
The WWE Champion drops his title to the mat.
Shawn Michaels: Come on Hun'er, show me how you're gonna finish The Heartbreak Kid.
Michaels means business and drops the microphone too.
?: Oh no you don't, hold it right there.
Eric Bischoff,
Raw's Head of Authority walks out panicked to the stage with a microphone in hand.
Eric Bischoff: There's no way the Wrestlemania event is getting ruined on my watch. There's only one way we're gonna deal with this. Hun'er you're gonna leave this arena right now, 'cause later on t'night I made a match that will see Shawn Michaels go one-on-one with a former Wrestlemania opponent. . .
Chris Jericho.
*Big Pop*
Eric Bischoff: I don't want you anywhere near it Hun'er so you either walk out right now or I have you removed. . . your call.
The King of Kings takes a long angry look at Shawn, then drops the microphone, turns his back and leaves, heading back up the ramp with Bischoff watching closely, getting a filthy look from Triple H too.
Jim Ross: This just got real personal, and we're still six weeks away from Wrestlemania. It looked like it was going t' boil over t'night, but later on we're going t' see Shawn Michaels in action when the WWE Champion goes one-on-one with Chris Jericho. That will be one hell of a match that's f' sure on what already is sure t' be one hell of a night here on Raw.
*Commercial Break*
A video of
Triple H leaving the arena during the break is shown with security watching him leave through the door to the parking lot.
*The Opening Match*
The Colon Brothers vs. Ezekiel Jackson & Orlando Jordan
The World Tag Team Champions, The Epitome of Excellence (Christopher Daniels & Kaval) joined JR & The King at the announce table to get a closer look as they put it at the Puerto Rican siblings who have gotten to them the last two weeks. Carlito & Eddie were out to impress as well with the champions watching, and they sure did that. The fans were behind them too, and despite a great start, Jackson proved to be a major roadblock. When Jordan just about managed to tag him into the match, the big man put the match in their favour, and he came close to securing an upset when he caught Eddie in a diving cross body attempt. He swiftly lifted him up into a torture rack, and Eddie sure looked like he was being tortured. Thankfully Carlito saw how close it was to being over and ran the ring to dropkick Jackson in the chest, and he let go of Eddie who fell to the mat. Carlito got a ticking off, but Eddie's pain didn't end there. Jackson continued to dominate him, but Eddie dug deep.
He survived a bearhug and got his shoulder up at the count of two after a thunderous running powerslam. Jackson was quickly getting angry and looked to hit a body avalanche on the younger brother, but Eddie sidestepped out of the corner and rolled him up after Jackson jumped into the pads. It was only two though and Jackson powered out, but as the big man made his way back up, Eddie caught him with a springboard dropkick and then made the tag to Carlito. He came in flying, connecting with a springboard back elbow smash and then a running knee lift to the side of the head. As he came back off the ropes for a clothesline though, Jackson caught him with a monstrous lariat. It turned Carlito inside out, and after he kicked out, Jackson stood up to bring Jordan back in. Jordan entered very smug, and Daniels & Kaval were happy to say the brothers weren't looking so good. It wasn't over though, and when Jordan missed with the Miami Hangover, a leg drop bulldog, Carlito reacted quickly with a lifting reverse STO.
Jordan though just got his shoulder up, but the writing was on the wall. The fans encouraged Carlito to end it, and he was on the way, urging OJ to get up, shifting behind for the Backstabber. Jackson saw the danger though and stormed the ring, but Carlito saw him coming and ducked a clothesline with Jackson running into the ropes. Carlito turned and dropkicked him through the ropes, but Eddie ran along the apron and knocked him off with a double leg kick to the knees. Carlito smiled with approval, but as he turned round, Jordan was back up on his feet and ran at him. Carlito ducked underneath though and caught him with the Backstabber to get the win for him & Eddie, met with joyous approval from the fans. Daniels & Kaval didn't look happy as they got their arms raised by the referee, and Carlito signalled that they want the titles around their waist, not going down well with the champions at all at the announce table.
Winners: The Colon Brothers by pinfall.
Jim Ross: There's no doubt that Carlito an' Eddie are on a roll right now. They've got their eyes on the two men set alongside us as well as their titles.
Christopher Daniels: They can look as much as they like. These titles are ours and it will remain that way I assure you.
Leticia Cline is standing by backstage at the interview set.
Leticia Cline: Ladies an' gentleman please welcome my guest at this time, Chris Jericho.
The camera zooms out and there stands
Chris Jericho in his ring gear looking fairly relaxed.
Leticia Cline: Chris, last week you won a spot in this year's Money in the Bank match at Wrestlemania which guarantees the winner a world championship match of their choosing at anytime in the next 12 months. How confident are you that you can become Mr. Money in the Bank this year?
Chris Jericho: How confident am I? Let me put it this way Leticia. Not only will I be part of this year's Money in the Bank match, I will without question be the winner of this year's Money in the Bank match. It doesn't matter if it's between just me and The Big Show or if the entire roster is in the match as well, I will be the one who claims that contract that will entitle me to a shot at the world title of my choice. It's not just confidence. It's because I am without question the best in the world at what I do. . .
Into the shot walks the menacing sight of
The Big Show, looking right at Jericho who turns right round, not at all impressed by his presence.
The Big Show: . . . Jeez, I've not heard that before.
Chris Jericho: You've heard it because it's true. It's something you won't have heard or ever will about yourself though.
The Big Show: Maybe, but if you were the best in the world you wouldn't need money in the bank. You'd be the champion right now or you would've won the number one contender match at No Way Out. You won't win this either. . . I will. All the talk in the world won't change that, but hey, if you're really the best in the world, you go an' beat Shawn Michaels t'night.
Show smiles at Jericho and takes his leave.
Leticia Cline: Like Big Show just said, you'll be in action against Shawn Michaels later on t'night. . .
Chris Jericho: . . . Yes I am, and just like I will be victorious at Wrestlemania, I will be victorious t'night when I beat Shawn Michaels as I would have at Wrestlemania if there was any justice in the world. The money in the bank will be consolation though, and you never know. I might just cash that in at Wrestlemania too.
Jericho looks right down the lens with a confident smile before walking out of the shot.
Rey Mysterio is shown looking ready to go, walking out of his locker room.
Jim Ross: It's time f' a quick commercial break, but when we come back, 'The Human Highlight Reel' Rey Mysterio will be in action an' you won't wanna miss it.
*Commercial Break*
*Video Recap
From Last Week
Rey Mysterio & The Colon Brothers
vs. Sheamus & The Epitome of Excellence
Both teams brought their A-games for this one, but Sheamus and the World Tag Team Champions were hell bent on revenge throughout. The 'champion' team had the better of the match, but that was until Mysterio found his step. He came in firing at the end after he was tagged by Eddie with Kaval getting the tag from Daniels. Kaval & Rey had the crowd eating it up as they went at it fast & furious. Rey got the upper hand, coming close with a frankensteiner. Kaval kicked out of it at two, but he turned the screw when he caught Rey with a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker. This time it was Rey who broke the count at two, getting his shoulder up to deny Kaval the win for his team. He was looking to put Rey away and went looking for The Tidal Wave, the springboard roundhouse kick, but Rey ducked it and backtracked into the ropes with Kaval turning into a drop to hold on to the middle rope. Rey dialled up for the 619 to a massive roar from the Vegas fans, but Daniels came to his partner's rescue, storming the ring gunning for Mysterio. The Colons came at him though with Sheamus joining the fun as it all went off in the ring.
Carlito took Daniels to the outside with a clothesline that took him over too while Sheamus sent Eddie out. Sheamus turned to see Rey getting back up after being knocked down by Daniels. Kaval too was making his way up to his feet, but Rey was the target of the Intercontinental Champion who ignored the referee to charge at Rey for the Brogue Kick, only Rey sidestepped it and Sheamus nailed Kaval instead. The fans loved it but Sheamus didn't, running right at Rey who back pedalled into the ropes, pulling the top one down to send Sheamus spiralling down to the floor, much to the delight of the crowd. Kaval was flat out and Rey stepped through the ropes on to the apron, hit a springboard to come down on Kaval for a splash, picking up the win for him, Carlito & Eddie. The fans were thrilled, cheering for Rey as he stood up to get his arm raised, joined by Eddie & Colon with Daniels & Sheamus sitting up looking on furiously from the floor. All three hit the ropes, celebrating, rubbing salt into the wounds of the pissed champions on the outside.
*Match #2*
Rey Mysterio vs. The Miz
Rey got a rousing reception from the fans when he walked out into the arena. Miami though weren't taken with The Miz, and it was clear that the feeling was mutual. He was a man on a mission though, not looking at all happy as he stepped out to the stage. He looked to take his frustration out on Rey, but Mysterio took advantage of it in the early going, starting fast to make Miz even angrier. Mr. Hollywood got a foothold after catching Rey with the kitchen sink, and as the match went on he was more than in it. Rey's spirit was there as always, but Miz turned the tide in his favour with a great counter, catching Rey with a standing dropkick when the Mexican went looking for a springboard reverse cross body off the second rope. Miz wasn't happy to see Rey get his shoulder up at two and went about trying to make sure he didn't kick out the next time.
He hit a springboard bulldog and then a falling neckbreaker, but that still wasn't enough. The anger was rising to the surface again, and the Clevelander drove both his hands into the canvas. He watched Rey trying to claw his way back up and stalked his prey for The Skull Crushing Finale. Rey though slipped behind him and put him in a waistlock, then ran into the ropes, trying for a roll up, but Miz held on to the ropes. Rey raced back up and Miz turned round to run at him, right into a hurricanrana. Miz kicked out, and as they made their way back up, Rey back pedalled into the ropes and Miz walked right into a drop toe hold. Rey dialled up for the 619 with the crowd going nuts, and he hit it to a huge pop.
Miz fell back and hit the deck as Rey steadied himself on the apron, then hit a springboard splash, coming down on The Miz for the pin, getting the three count and a good win. "Booyaka 619" hit to another big pop as Rey got his arm raised by the referee, but boos came from the crowd, fans standing up, and as Rey turned round, Sheamus, the Intercontinental Champion had slid in the ring. The Celtic Warrior burst at him going for the Brogue Kick but Rey ducked it and ran into the ropes to slide out of the ring to piss off the already livid Irishman. Rey backtracked up the ramp watching Sheamus glaring at him, but the Intercontinental Champion turned round and went after a microphone.
Winner: Rey Mysterio by pinfall.
Sheamus: Hey, Mysterio. Y'might've got away dis time fella, but let me tell y'somethin', sooner or later I'm gonna get my hands on ya. I should be goin' t' Wrestlemania t' replicate The Ultimate Warrior's feat of walking out of Wrestlemania as both Intercontinental
and WWE Champion, but I'm not, because of you.
*Heat*
Sheamus: It's your fault Rey an' I'm gonna make y'pay. It's gonna be worse than de last time. Dis time you won't be comin' back.
Eric Bischoff walks out to the stage holding a microphone.
Eric Bischoff: Sheamus Sheamus Sheamus. You're not gonna let this go are y'fella? Well guess what? I'm gonna make your dreams come true. Just like The Ultimate Warrior did, you'll be going t' Wrestlemania with the Intercontinental title which you will defend, only you won't be challenging for the WWE title. You'll be defending your Intercontinental Championship against this man right here,
Rey Mysterio.
*Big Pop*
Rey looks really happy at that, Sheamus less so as he looks up at Bischoff.
Eric Bischoff: But since I'm in a good mood t'night, I'm gonna give you a chance later on t' take on the man who defended the WWE Championship at Wrestlemania last year so you're ready for your first Wrestlemania. Your opponent t'night is The Viper,
Randy Orton.
*Huge Pop*
Sheamus shakes his head, not happy at all.
Eric Bischoff: Good luck
fella.
Bischoff turns round and walks backstage again with a happy Rey looking down at Sheamus, and the Intercontinental Champion can't hide his frustration as "Booyaka 619" plays again.
Jim Ross: What a match that is going t' be at Wrestlemania, but later on Sheamus will have another massive challenge when he goes one-on-one with Randy Orton who last week beat Triple H inside a steel cage. We'll see how he copes up against The Viper later on.
The Miz doesn't look too happy as he's shown walking back from the ring, walking right into the path of a sn-iggering
Zack Ryder, not making Miz's mood any better at all.
Zack Ryder: Hey look who it is. Who looks like the loser now huh oh awesome one? Great job man.
The Miz: You're calling me a loser, really?
Really? I'd rather lose one match than be a loser my entire life.
Zack Ryder: One match? Seriously bro?
The Miz: Yeah
bro, seriously. I'll prove it. Next week, you an' me. How about it?
Zack Ryder: You an' me next week? Oh you know it's on.
Zack smiles, clearly looking forward to the match before walking off with the angry Miz watching him walk away with contempt.
Jim Ross: As we just found out before the break, later on t'night we'll see Rey Mysterio get the chance t' face Sheamus at Wrestlemania for the Intercontinental Championship. The Celtic Warrior put him out of action for a few weeks after Rey eliminated him from the Royal Rumble. . .
Jerry Lawler: . . . Not just that JR. Sheamus cost Rey an' Mystico the tag team titles the next night too. I think ev'ryone's rooting f' Rey at Wrestlemania.
Jim Ross: I agree, but King, I think ev'ryone here t'night is looking forward to the return of The Rock when he reveals who will be the first inductee in this year's Hall of Fame.
Jerry Lawler: I can feel the electricity. It's been balding all night. I think this place is gonna erupt when he walks out here later on.
*Match #3*
JTG vs. Hardcore Holly
JTG got a good reaction from the Miami fans, but not long into the contest he & Holly found themselves on the outside after the momentum of a clothesline from JTG took them both down to the floor. They along with the fans were both in for a surprise when Smackdown's Jack Swagger ran down the ramp, grabbing Holly and tossing him into the steps. The ref called for the bell as The All-American tossed JTG in the ring and followed him in, helping him up and planting him with the Swagger Bomb. He was like a man possessed and turned him over on to his front, then applied the Ankle Lock, making JTG scream out in agony, quickly tapping, not that it stopped Swagger. The referee tried to get him off, and eventually Swagger relented with the fans booing as he stared into the stands and then down at JTG without a shred of remorse. The boos continued as he left the ring, taking a quick cold glance at Holly writhing around the floor before heading back up the ramp, giving the fans dirty looks too, shrugging off the heat without a care in the world.
Result: No Contest.
Jerry Lawler: What was that all about JR? Why's he here?
Jim Ross: I don't know King. What I do know though is my fellow Oklahoman, Jack Swagger has made a statement here t'night live on Raw.
We're shown a split screen of the
WWE Champion,
Shawn Michaels & Chris Jericho as they both make their way through the back ready for action.
Jim Ross: What a treat in store when we come back, a Wrestlemania rewind between Chris Jericho and the WWE Champion Shawn Michaels. Whatever you do folks, don't go anywhere. You won't wanna miss this.
*Commercial Break*
'The All-American American' Jack Swagger is shown walking through back with a wry smile on his face, and suddenly he stops. We now see that
Eric Bischoff is standing right there, not looking too impressed at all.
Eric Bischoff: What the hell was that? What are you even doing here?
Jack Swagger: This is the A-show, the place t' be right?
Eric Bischoff: Y-e-s.
Jack Swagger: Well if this is the A-show, it needs
Jack Swagger.
Eric Bischoff: Is that so?
Jack Swagger: Yeah, it is. Raw needs The All-American American, believe me.
Eric Bischoff: Oh I've seen you in action. You've sure got talent alright but you should've just called me. I've got no problem bringing talent t' Raw. If you want in, that's fine by me. Just so you know though Jack, what I say goes around here. Taking matters into your own hands like that, that won't do you any favours alright, just so we're clear.
Swagger smiles again and walks off without a care in the world.
*Match #4*
Non-Title Match
Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho
Jericho may have been very calm walking out into the arena and once in the ring he looked very complacent too. Michaels on the other hand wasn't, and he had the Miami fans cheering him on throughout. The WWE Champion was on fire in the early going, but Jericho came back and his complacency vanished. The Canadian rose to the challenge and was more than a match for The Heartbreak Kid. Jericho showed why he calls himself the best in the world at what he does, turning the tables late on when he ducked a leg feed enzuigiri to lock in the Walls of Jericho. The fans were shocked as Michaels was forced to fight like mad to stay in the match with Jericho begging Shawn to tap out. Michaels struggled to hold on, slap bang in the middle of the ring. The fans were worried but chanted "HBK" over & over, supporting the WWE Champion, and he responded, desperately dragging himself slowly across the canvas. Jericho started to panic, keeping the hold locked in though as Michaels dragged himself closer to the ropes.
The fans were willing him to get there, but Jericho responded, standing up slightly to try & drag Michaels back. Shawn responded though, taking advantage to turn himself over and kick Jericho off him, getting a big pop from the fans. Michaels struggled to get back up while Jericho easily made it up to his feet, and he went right after Shawn by the ropes, chopping him across the chest. He fired him into the opposite side and walked out to meet Shawn, but the WWE Champion came back with a flying forearm smash. Again the fans loved it and cheered as both men picked themselves back up. Michaels blocked a right hand and unloaded on Jericho to then fire him into the ropes, and as Jericho came back he was sent high up into the air with a back body drop. With the fans loving it, Jericho dragged himself back up, walking into a scoop slam from Michaels who then headed to the corner, climbing up to the top rope to get the fans even more excited.
It was getting incredibly loud in the arena as Shawn then leapt off the top for a diving elbow drop, but Jericho just rolled out of the way at the last second. The fans' disappointment was clear, and as both men clawed their way back up, Jericho was looking the brighter and set his sights on Michaels, looking determined to put Shawn away, and he ran at the WWE Champion, planting him with the Codebreaker. He hit it and the momentum took Shawn rolling across the mat towards the apron, and just before the ref was about to count to three with Jericho looking smug, Michaels got his foot on the bottom rope to a huge roar. Jericho couldn't believe it and took his anger out on the referee before going back to Shawn, grabbing him by the legs and pulling him to the middle of the ring. Michaels though swung his legs forcefully to send Jericho down, and as they made their way back up, Michaels ducked a clothesline and took Jericho down with a swinging neckbreaker.
It gave him the chance to regroup, and as he stood up he retreated to the corner as Jericho slowly dragged his way back up, oblivious to The Heartbreak Kid tuning up the band. The fans joined in, stomping their feet in the stands and clapping their hands. Michaels locked & loaded, watched Jericho stand up, and as he turned his way Michaels exploded out of the corner for the super kick. Jericho ducked it though and smirked into the stands at doing so, too cocky for his own good, and as he turned again, Michaels took his head off with the sweet chin music. Jericho wasn't laughing this time as he fell flat on his back to a huge roar again with Michaels falling on top of him to make the cover and secure the victory. "Sexy Boy" blasted out to get the crowd going even more as Shawn was handed his WWE title and got his arm raised by the referee. He hit the corner to applaud the fans again as Jericho rolled to the apron a little worse for wear as he came round with the WWE Champion looking good heading into Wrestlemania.
Winner: Shawn Michaels by pinfall.
Jim Ross: That's a great win f' Shawn Michaels t'night heading into Wrestlemania. Jericho made a real fight of it but he got too cocky. Ultimately it cost him the match and the WWE Champion comes out on top like he intends to at Wrestlemania when he meets Triple H.
The shot goes to the back and
John Cena is shown, seemingly on his way to the ring.
Jim Ross: When we come back though, we'll find out the decision John Cena has made as to who he'll face at Wrestlemania, CM Punk or The Undertaker. We'll all find out when we come back in just a few minutes.
Jim Ross: Still t' come t'night, live in his hometown of Miami,
The Rock will be here on Raw!
"My Time Is Now"
The arena erupts with fans rising to their feet as
John Cena walks out to the stage, stopping to take in the cheers & boos being thrown at him. He smiles through it and does his trademark salute before running down to the ring, looking back to normal after last week's troubles despite the decision he plans to make. He hits the ring to more thunderous cheers & boos as he poses for the fans, then walks across to the apron to collect a microphone. The music stops and the noise is deafening as Cena soaks it in, enjoying the moment.
John Cena: Is it me or is Miami EXCITED T'NIGHT?
*Big Cheer*
There again are some boos too, not that they bother Cena.
John Cena: Yeah it sounds t' me like you people are excited an' y'should be. Not only is it Wrestlemania season, right here t'night live from his hometown of Miami,
The Rock will be in the house.
*Huge Pop*
John Cena: It doesn't get much better than this right? This is what this time of year's all about. Wrestlemania is like nothing else. The slightest mention of Wrestlemania gets the hair on the back of my neck standing up. I've been lucky enough t' main event a fair few in recent times. In fact ev'ry match I've had at Wrestlemania, a title's been on the line. The first time I won the United States Championship. The last four years it's been f' the WWE title. All but one of those matches, last year as it goes, I've won. This year though I'm in the position where I can fight for the World Heavyweight Championship against the man who just manages to escape ev'ry timeI face him,
CM Punk.
*Mixed*
John Cena: Vince McMahon has given me one more chance, an' after ev'rything me an' Punk 'ave been through the last few months, you have no idea how much I wanna beat that guy an' become the World Heavyweight Champion. It's what I've been trying t' do the last six months it feels like, but one thing after another keeps happening t' stop me, whether it be Stephanie McMahon, Punk getting his buddies t' help him out or a certain dead man chokeslams me in the middle of this ring when I'm about to walk out of the cage an' grab that title.
*Mixed*
John Cena: That, that's the twist in the tale. . . That twist goes by the name of. . .
"Undertaker. . . Undertaker. . ."
John Cena: Yeah that's him, The Undertaker.
*Pop*
John Cena: F' the last week, ev'ryone's been talking about if at Wrestlemania 25, the 25th anniversary of the showpiece event in this business, The Undertaker's gonna face John Cena.
*Big Pop*
John Cena: Exactly. Ev'ryone wants t' know, including me. That's the problem. I don't know if that's really on the cards or not. Nobody knows but The Undertaker himself if he challenged me last week, leaving me in this position of whether I accept Vince's challenge or not, or do I find out if he challenged me or not last week? If he did, do I instead choose t' try t' do what no one else ever has? Do I dare walk through the gates of hell an' face the man who at Wrestlemania is 16 an' 0? Do I choose t' do what almost ev'ryone thinks can't be done? Do I go t' Wrestlemania an' try t' beat the streak?
*Mixed*
John Cena: I've gotta admit I'm still not sure I know the answer, but I think, I think I know what I want. . . no, what I have t' do. . . F' months now I've tried t' beat CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship, an' at Wrestlemania I have the chance t' do just that. It's a no brainer, or so you'd think. As much as I wanna beat Punk an' win the world title, if he defends that title at Wrestlemania I'll still have that chance another day. The opportunity t' face The Undertaker an' end the streak comes along once a year, an' man do I love a challenge?
*Pop*
John Cena: I've been in this business a long time now an' one man I've always respected the hell out of is The Undertaker. In fact after my first match here he came t' me an' told me "good job kid". I won't f'get that. He helped me out in my early days but now I'm in the position that I have the chance, or at least I think I do t' step inside the ring with one of the all time best on the biggest stage, the stage where he's been invincible. But you know what they say right? All good things must come to an end!
*Heat*
John Cena: I've always been true t' myself. I always try t' be honest an' I can stand here t'night an' say that I've always thought The Undertaker couldn't be beaten at Wrestlemania. I've thought that the streak would never come to an end an' that it shouldn't. Now I'm stood here with maybe the chance t' be the man to achieve the unthinkable. I don't see it as the chance to end it an' rub it in his face. I see this as a challenge, simple as that. I've never ducked a challenge in my life. I never have an' I never will. That's why if the challenge is there, I. . .
*Gong*
The fans go nuts and the lights go out and
"Rest In Peace" hits to more cheers, then
The Undertaker slowly emerges through the smoke blowing across the stage. He carries on slowly down the ramp with Cena watching, smile gone completely, taking The Dead-Man very seriously. Taker gets to the steps, takes them up on to the apron and brings the lights back on to a deafening roar, staring straight ahead at Cena who keeps his eyes on Taker. The phenom enters the ring with his special microphone, menacingly walking towards Cena as his music comes to a halt with the cheers continuing with both men staring right at each other.
The Undertaker: The challenge of which you speak implies you have a choice.
*Pop*
The Undertaker: 41 nights John, you will walk through the gates of hell, and just like ev'ryone before you, you will fall and become another victim of the streak.
*More Cheers*
John Cena: You might be right. Hist'ry dead man says you are. No one has beaten you f' a reason. Hell, you may well be invincible. That's what makes this the biggest challenge of my life or f' anyone who tries t' beat the streak, but like I've said, I've never backed away from a challenge. This, this is no diff'rent. If you say I've got no choice, that doesn't make any diff'rence either. My mind was made up. Wrestlemania 25, The Undertaker versus John Cena. . . it's on.
Cena looks right at Taker, showing he's not intimidated and drops the stick to walk past him and leave the ring, heading back up the ramp as Taker turns to watch him leave. Cena turns back and looks down to the ring and the man he'll face at Wrestlemania as the shot focuses on the Wrestlemania sign above the ring visible behind Taker with Cena looking down at him.
Jim Ross: There we go. We now know. As John Cena said himself, it's on. At Wrestlemania it will be a real clash of the titans. It'll be John Cena taking on the streak when he challenges The Undertaker. What a match that is going t' be.
Jerry Lawler: You're not wrong. It's going t' be incredible JR. Cena an' The Undertaker, I can't believe it.
Jim Ross: If f' some reason you weren't watching before the break, it's official. At Wrestlemania in six weeks we will see perhaps the biggest challenge to The Undertaker's streak when the man who is 16 an' 0 faces John Cena. That truly is something worthy of the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania.
Jerry Lawler: It sure is JR.
*Video Recap
From Last Week
The Glamazon is standing in the middle of the ring with a microphone in hand and her music is cut, allowing her to speak, and she's obviously got something to get off her chest.
Beth Phoenix: I've been warned all day about what I came out here t' do, but despite what people think, I'm not scared of the woman who's been dominating Raw since she came here and for no reason whatsoever got involved in my match last night. You know who I'm talking about, the Women's Champion
Queen Kong.
*Heat*
Beth Phoenix: Against a lot of people's genuine concern,
Kong, I want you t' come down here
right now.
*Pop*
Beth looks up at the stage, eagerly anticipating what she hopes is Kong's arrival, and she doesn't have to wait too long as the ever menacing looking sight of
Queen Kong, the
Women's Champion emerges from the back. She slowly but surely makes her way down to the ring with Beth watching her all the way into the ring, and as Kong steps inside she walks intently towards her Smackdown counterpart.
Beth Phoenix: You can try and intimidate all you want, it won't work. I came out here for a reason. I want t' know why you interfered in my match last night. You didn't need to. I wanna know.
Tell me. I'm not going anywhere until you give me an answer.
There's no response from Kong as she coldly stares at Beth.
Beth Phoenix: Is that what you've got? Nothing? If you're not going to give me an answer there's only one other way I can get it, by beating it out of you.
Beth drops the microphone and hammers Kong to a big pop, continuing to unload, putting the Women's Champion on the back foot. She grabs her by the wrist and tries to send her into the ropes but Kong reverses it. The Glamazon comes back off the ropes into a massive lariat that puts the Diva's Champion down. Kong reaches down and helps her back up to send her crashing with force into the corner. Beth's back hits the pads and she slumps against them as Kong charges in at her, splashing the life out of her.
Beth falls forward face first and Kong glares down intensely at her, breathing heavily. She turns her head and sees Beth's title also on the canvas, and the Women's Champion walks over to it and picks it up, looking right it at before picking her women's title up too. She now turns to leave the ring with both titles to a chorus of boos without any remorse whatsoever, and The Glamazon comes too, lifting her head up to see Kong turn round with both titles in her possession staring down at her. The behemoth's music plays again with Beth in a bad way, slowly getting her breath back.
***
From Smackdown Friday Night
In the back, the
Diva's Champion,
Beth Phoenix is angrily pacing back & forth without the title belt Queen Kong stole from her on Raw Monday night. She's understandably not in a good mood tonight, and it might get worse as
O.D.B. walks up to her.
Beth Phoenix: I'm not in any kind of mood t' talk right now, let alone with you.
O.D.B: You're not the only one pissed y'know. I know that crazy bitch beat the crap out of you an' stole y'title the other night but she stopped me taking it from y'too. The only reason I don't have that title now is 'cause of that freak.
Mr. McMahon enters the scene, instantly calming the tension temporarily between the two divas just by his presence taking their attention away from each other.
Mr. McMahon: Beth, am I glad I found you?
Beth Phoenix: You better have something good t' tell me.
Mr. McMahon: Well let's see. I've just been speaking with Eric Bischoff because after what happened at No Way Out and then on Raw Monday night, we both felt that we had t' deal with this as a matter of urgency before it goes any further. Now I know this is a little unorthodox but we felt this was too good an idea t' pass up. We've got both you and Kong as champions, so we felt that with Wrestlemania just around the corner, how huge it would be t' have the women's champion take on the diva's champion in a unification match?
That seems to calm Beth down but not O.D.B.
O.D.B: Well that's great f' her but what about me huh?
Mr. McMahon: Ah yes. You do have a point but right now this is what. . .
Beth Phoenix: . . . Vince, thank you. I think it's a great idea, but it's not going t' stop me going t' Raw Monday night t' get my title back.
Mr. McMahon: I understand, but I must tell you t' be very careful.
Beth Phoenix: I'll do whatever it takes. She's not going t' push me around like ev'ryone else. I promise you that.[/COLOR]
*Match #5*
Non-Title Match
Gail Kim vs. Queen Kong
Kong was even meaner than normal as she walked out with both her women's title but the diva's title she stole from Beth Phoenix last week. Gail though was fearless. She gave almost as good as she got, only making Kong's mood worse. The Women's Champion was showing off her strength when she had Gail up in the air for a gorilla press. Kim though wriggled her way down to safety, landing on her feet. Kong was shocked and turned into an enzuigiri that floored the Women's Champion, falling right on her face. Kim turned her over for the cover but Kong kicked out at two. Gail went on the offensive and connected with a front missile dropkick off the second rope.
Kong was back up and easily reversed an irish whip, but as Gail came back off the ropes she surprised everyone, Kong especially with tilt-a-whirl headscissors. Gail then ran the ropes as they both made it back up, going for a springboard cross body. Kong caught her though and swung her round in a flash for a spinning side slam. Kim got the Women's Champion even angrier when she got her shoulder up before the ref could count to three. The fans cheered, but as Kong menacingly stood back up, bringing Gail with her to set her up for the Awesome Bomb, a cheer broke out as Beth Phoenix, the Diva's Champion Kong will face in a unification match at Wrestlemania made her way out into the arena.
She walked down to ringside and past the ring to take back the diva's title Kong stole last week. Kong saw her and let go of Gail to go after Beth, but The Glamazon stood firm as Kong tried to block her off on the floor. Beth though cracked a wry smile before driving her title belt into Kong's face, not once but twice to put Kong on the floor, resulting in the ref calling for the bell to award Kong the win by DQ. Beth taunted her before walking back up the ramp as a confused Gail stood up to see Kong on the floor, sitting up looking furious with the ref explaining what happened to Gail. The Glamazon turned back to defiantly raise her title to a pop from the Miami crowd.
Winner: Queen Kong by DQ.
Jim Ross: You have t' give Beth Phoenix credit King. Kong left her on lying on her back twice last week but The Glamazon came back fighting t'night. It's going t' be a real ding dong battle when these two women get their hands on each other in their unification match.
*Commercial Break*
Beth Phoenix is shown walking in the back, and she walks towards the oncoming
Leticia Cline.
Leticia Cline: Beth, can I speak with you for a moment?
Beth Phoenix: Sure.
The Diva's Champion stops.
Leticia Cline: Well you must be pleased you've got your title back?
Beth Phoenix: Of course I am, it's my title. I don't care what Kong or anyone might think. We might be in a match at Wrestlemania to unify both our titles, but if she beats me,
if, then she can have this title. I'm going to prove her wrong. She might not've lost a match yet but she will when I get my hands on her at Wrestlemania. Then Leticia, I'll have her title too.
?: QUICK, CAN WE GET SOME HELP?
The cameraman turns round to show some workers/agents running towards what looks to be the entrance to the parking lot. The camera follows and runs outside where the workers are crouched down by a car, and they part as a medic rushes out, and now we can see that the
WWE Champion,
Shawn Michaels is down by what appears to be his car with some blood coming from his forehead. He's conscious but barely moving with the camera panning to the side to show
Triple H standing there smirking.
Medic: Shawn, can you hear me?
Triple H: Have a safe journey home champ.
The King of Kings walks away with a sadistic smile on his face as
Eric Bischoff runs outside.
Eric Bischoff: What happened?
He immediately looks and sees Triple H walking away as medics check on Shawn's condition.
Eric Bischoff: Is he okay?
Medic: I'm not sure. I think we need to get him to the emergency room.
Eric Bischoff: Okay. Whatever you need t' do doc.
[Bischoff shakes his head looking in The Game's direction, absolutely furious as the medics attend to the WWE Champion who looks in a bad way, still struggling to move.
*Match #6*
Kofi Kingston, John Morrison & Justin Gabriel w/The Bella Twins
vs. Jay Lethal, Cody Rhodes & Joe Hennig
Before the match started, Morrison & Gabriel were introduced by the Bella Twins with them calling the two men not just the two hottest guys on Raw but the hottest team that they're lucky to be dating. They also said they call Morrison & Gabriel J & J, or J'n'J. Kofi came out all fired up as he has been lately, gunning for his brother. Lethal did his best to stay away from Kofi, but when he saw Kofi struggling he jumped at the chance to get in there with him. He slapped Cody on the back for a blind tag and jumped over the top rope, urging Kofi to get to his feet, and when he did he slipped behind Kofi, hitting a flipping release dragon suplex. He wasn't done there and again was jumping up & down, begging Kofi to get up. He gave in waiting and helped him up from his knees to hit the Lethal Combination, an STO backbreaker into a reverse STO.
He hit it and the fans looked nervous as the determined Lethal made the cover, devastated to see Kofi get the shoulder up. Jay was furious and got in the ref's face, but as he turned & looked down to see Kofi stirring, he went back after him to finish him off, but as he lifted him up off his feet for the Lethal Injection, Kofi slipped down. The Jamaican Sensation landed on his feet behind Jay, who turned round into a Trouble In Paradise. Kofi couldn't take advantage straight away, and by the time he crawled across to make the cover, Lethal got his shoulder up just as the ref looked like he was going to count to three. Kofi sat up disappointed but crawled across to make a tag to Gabriel, and the South African didn't waste much time in stepping through the ropes as a groggy Jay made his way back up to his knees.
Gabriel ran at him, corkscrew flipping over Jay before connecting with a jumping heel kick. The Bellas were applauding on the outside, and with Lethal rattled, Gabriel took full advantage to nail him with a super kick. Lethal was down & out and Gabriel dragged him towards the corner before jumping up to the top rope with the fans cheering. Cody though burst across the apron, just as it looked like the 450 splash would end the match, but Cody sent Gabriel crashing down to the mat to a ton of boos. Kofi & Morrison were furious too, and it gave both men the chance to crawl to their corners and make tags. It came down to Kofi & Hennig with Hennig on top having avoided the Boom Drop and quickly following up with a jawbreaker as they raced back up. Kofi just got his shoulder up, and after again failing to put Kofi away, Hennig pulled him into place for the Hennig-Plex.
Kofi fought it though with elbows, getting himself free. Joe wasn't happy and ran at him for a clothesline, but Kofi ducked it and reacted quickly to hit the S.O.S. Hennig kicked out at two, and he stood up ready to explode, but Lethal and then Cody burst into the ring. So did Morrison & Gabriel though, taking care of Cody & Lethal, leaving Kofi to hit the Trouble In Paradise on Hennig to get the win for him & J'n'J. The fans loved it, cheering as J'n'J & Kofi celebrated their win with the Bellas joining them in the ring, throwing themselves all over J'n'J as a pissed off Lethal sat up on the outside staring angrily at Kofi who stared right back as JR announced that he just received word that next week, Kofi & Lethal would meet one-on-one in a Money in the Bank qualifying match!
Winners: Kofi Kingston, John Morrison & Justin Gabriel by pinfall.
Jim Ross: That's a big win t'night f' Kofi Kingston. Next week he has another big match when he meets his brother Jay Lethal for a place in the Money in the Bank match at Wrestlemania. So much at stake there folks.
A split screen pops up with the fired-up
Randy Orton & Intercontinental Champion,
Sheamus both making their way through the back looking more than ready for action.
Jim Ross: Our main event is just a matter of moments away. When we return Randy Orton will go one-on-one with the Intercontinental Champion Sheamus. That'll be live when we come back in a few moments.
*Commercial Break*
>41 Days!<
*The Main Event*
Non-Title Match
Randy Orton vs. Sheamus
The Viper received a warm reception as he made his entrance to the ring with Sheamus not exactly looking forward to his impending arrival. The Intercontinental Champion though did prove to be a challenge for Orton. Sheamus took the opportunity to make an impression against the former WWE & World Heavyweight Champion. Orton might've started the stronger but the Irishman took his chance when he rolled away from a pointed knee drop and reacted first of the two as they got back up with a swinging neckbreaker. He stepped up to the plate and made it a real battle for Orton, but The Viper showed how much he loves a scrap too. As the match went into the closing stages, Sheamus watched Orton getting back up by the ropes and ran at him for a clothesline. Orton lifted him over the top rope and on to the apron. Sheamus landed on his feet but Orton blocked a right hand and dragged Sheamus through the ropes, resting his feet on the rope before drilling him with a spike DDT.
The Irishman was out for the count but somehow managed to get his shoulder up to deny Orton the win, surprising Orton slightly. The fans were shocked but Orton took it on the chin, turning himself over and driving his fists repeatedly into the mat, full of focus & intensity as the starry eyed Sheamus tried to sit up. The fans were chanting "RKO", and as Sheamus managed to drag his way back up, eyes all over the place, Orton leapt up for the RKO. Sheamus pulled back though, and as they both turned to face each other, the Intercontinental Champion caught him with the Irish Curse backbreaker. Sheamus wasted no time in going for the cover, only getting a two count to the frustration of The Celtic Warrior, not that he looked too surprised. He stood back up and watched Orton sitting back up, and Sheamus was desperate to put Orton to bed. He dragged him back up and set him up for the High Cross.
He lifted him up off the mat, but as he stepped out of the corner, The Viper slid down his back, and as both men spun round in a hurry, Orton stomped him hard in the gut before turning back to run the ropes. Orton hit them but ran back into a Celtic war sword, and as he made his way back up to his knees, Sheamus dragged him up to hit the White Noise, only to be frustrated again as Orton got the shoulder up. Sheamus battered the canvas before standing back up reluctantly, but he quickly realised what he had to do and backed up into the corner, watching Orton struggling to pick himself back up. Sheamus started banging his chest, and as Orton made it up and turned round, the Irishman burst out of the corner, going for the Brogue Kick. Orton ducked it though and they turned round in a hurry with Orton again stomping him in the gut, but this time he drilled him with a snap DDT.
The fans were enjoying that, but instead of going for the cover, he turned himself over and again prepared for the RKO, furiously banging the mat with his fists as Sheamus began to sit up, and seeing what was coming he rolled to the ropes and under the bottom rope. The fans booed like crazy as Sheamus turned his back on the match, surprising the hell out of Orton and the referee. Sheamus turned round looking at the ring, staring at Orton when a big pop broke out with Rey Mysterio running down the ramp to grab Sheamus by the tights & head to send him back in the ring. The fans were cheering again but Sheamus was pissed, staring down furiously at Rey who told him to turn around, and when he did, Orton hit the RKO to a massive cheer and made the cover to get the win. The crowd rose to their feet & cheered with Rey backing away smiling. The Viper didn't show much emption as he got his arm raised, staring into the stands defiant after two strong wins back-to-back on Raw with Sheamus sitting up looking up at Rey with a look of contempt.
Winner: Randy Orton by pinfall.
Jim Ross: Randy Orton picks up another win t'night heading into Wrestlemania season on a roll. As f' Sheamus he got what he deserved f' trying t' walk out on this match.
Jim Ross: Well the time has come folks. After what will be our last commercial break of the evening, The Rock will be here
live on Raw. You'd be a fool t' go anywhere. The Rock will be here when we return live from Miami.
*Commercial Break*
A limo pulls up in the parking lot and the driver gets out, walking to the passenger door and opens it, and out steps
The Rock to a massive pop that can be heard coming from inside the arena. He heads into the arena and walks through the back, making his way to the production area as the shot goes back to the ring.
"IF YA SM-E-L-L WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN'. . ."
The crowd goes absolutely nuts as they await the arrival of The People's Champion, and they don't have to wait long as The Rock walks out into the arena to another rapturous reception, stopping to take it all in. He smiles, revelling in the response from the crowd and walks to both sides of the stage, getting them going even more before heading down to the ring. He steps inside and the crowd goes wild again, and he heads to the opposite corner, climbing up to the second rope and throwing his right arm up into the air. The fans are eating it up big time as he looks into the Miami crowd, loving every minute. He steps down and is handed a microphone by the timekeeper and walks into the middle of the ring with his music coming to a stop.
"ROCKY, ROCKY. . ."
The Rock: It's been a long time since I've done this so bear with me . .
FIN-ALLY THE ROCK
HAS COME BACK. . . HOME.
*Huge Pop*
The Rock: It really has been a long time, too long people, but one thing that's not changed all this time is you, the people. The Rock has always had the support of people, and there's no people quite like The Rock's people right here in Miami, and let me tell you I appreciate ev'ry single one of you.
There are more cheers for the hometown hero.
The Rock: You've continued t' support The Rock and I love you for it, but there are some things that have changed since the last time I was here. It appears there's a World Heavyweight Champion by the name of
CM Punk.
*Heat*
Punk's mention gets some cheers from the fans.
The Rock: I've told a lot of people in my time t' know their role an' shut their mouth, but if I ever met this CM Punk I'd have t' tell him t' turn around know his role an' shut his ass.
*Pop*
The Rock: I've never heard someone talk as much as crap as that guy does, and one thing I won't allow is a jabroni like that talking crap out the people,
hell no. . . Then, then there's the man I hear's the new number one guy. His name is John Cena?
*Mixed*
The Rock: Yeah I hear he's not the most popular guy in the world, but that's what walking round like an 8-year-old at a summer camp might do that for ya.
Laughs come from the crowd.
The Rock: I kid I kid of course. As a matter of fact I got a lot of time f' John Cena. That guy's got some serious heart. I mean seriously. Anyone who chooses t' fight The Undertaker at Wrestlemania's got my respect. That though, that one thing hasn't changed. It might've got bigger, what 16 straight wins now right? The Undertaker is still,
still undefeated at Wrestlemania.
*Pop*
The Rock: 16 times he's walked on down t' the ring on the biggest stage of them all, and ev'ry time he's walked back from it he's walked back a winner. That, that is unreal. People tell me this might be the year that changes but I doubt it. The only way that would've changed is if The Dead-Man met The Great One.
*Pop*
Rocky turns to the side and sees Lilian Garcia sitting at ringside.
The Rock: Who do we have here? Wow momma, lookin' good baby. As it happens we used t' have a hot ring announcer. Lilian she was called if I remember rightly.
Lilian smiles, thinking he's joking.
The Rock: She had a smile just like that. That chick was hot, loved some pie she did too. . . Wait. . .
Rock looks closer, realises it is Lilian.
The Rock: . . . That's not Lilian as I live an' breathe is it?
Lilian nods at him with a grin.
The Rock: Wow, looking good momma. Let me ask you something Lilian, you still like pie? It's cool I'm single now. You can be honest.
She blushes and The Rock laughs.
The Rock: I'm playin' people. I'm here t' have fun t'night. I'm here t' see the people but I'm actually here f' another reason too. See last year after having a great career here in the WWE, I had the huge honour of being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
*Big Pop*
The Rock: That's right, a great honour. As much as I've achieved in this ring, in this business and the movie business, that was without question the greatest moment of my career. Aside from the birth of my daughter it was the best moment of my life.
T'night I have the honour of naming the first person to be inducted this year. Not just that, the night before Wrestlemania I will be in London England to personally induct this person myself.
*Pop*
The Rock: As I just said, I had a great career with some great moments. World titles, main eventing Wrestlemania, Hall of Fame I've done it all. There's nothing I haven't done. . .
"One More Match, One More Match. . ."
Rocky laughs, amused by their chant.
The Rock: It's a cliché I know but as they always say, never say never.
*Big Pop*
The Rock: Like I was saying, I've done it all an' had some great moments but I've also had some crazy moments I've loved just as much, which ironically is why I'm here t'night apart from t' see the people of course. . . In life we all need someone a little crazy t' keep us en'ertained. That's what I had with this person I'll induct into the Hall of Fame. We had a blast. We had fun, we en'ertained an' we had a connection, a special connection, something which had a special name. . . the Rock an' Sock connection.
*Huge Pop*
The Rock: That's right. We had some fun an' we kicked some ass. We were even the tag team champions f' a while. I think you know who I'm talking about, so with that said Miami, I want you all t' stand up an' give this very soon t' be Hall of Famer the response he deserves. Ladies an' gentleman it is my
honour, my
pleasure to announce that right here right now to announce an' welcome t' the Hall of Fame,
and this ring,
MICK FOLEY.
"Wreck"
Another huge pop breaks out as
Mick Foley walks out to the stage with a big smile on his face, embarrassingly holding his right hand up before making his way down to the ring. He steps inside and walks up to The Rock, getting a big guy hug from his former tag team partner and he's a handed a microphone by The Great One. The music cuts and the cheers continue with chants of "Foley" as he looks into the crowd, taking in their admiration.
Mick Foley: The Rock will know how strange this is but this is one of the rare moments I don't know what t' say.
Rocky smirks & nods his head.
Mick Foley: I won't make a big speech t'night. I'll leave that 'til the night itself. I do though want to thank the WWE of course for choosing to induct me. It really is a great honour, as is having arguably the greatest of all time being here t'night as well as inducting me too.
The Rock: Mick, it's absolutely
my honour.
Mick Foley: All the same I appreciate you being here, just like all the people here t'night,
right here in Miami Florida.
*Big Pop*
Mick Foley: Without the support of you and the fans all over the world I wouldn't have had the career I've had and enjoyed so much, so from the bottom of my hearts I want to thank each and ev'ryone of you for supporting me through the years. Without it this wouldn't be possible, but I don't wanna talk about me Rock. I wanna talk about you. Five years ago you had your last match with me when The Rock an' Sock Connection reunited f' one night only, and I couldn't help but hear earlier that the people were chanting "one more match". I did hear that right?
*Big Pop*
"One more match, one more match. . ."
Mick Foley: It sounds t' me Rock the people wanna see The Rock have one more match. They're not the only ones. I. . .
"Metalingus"
The arena erupts with a chorus of boos as
'The Rated-R Superstar' Edge hits the stage with a serious look on his face, looking down at the ring not happy at all. In jeans and a T-shirt he stomps his way down there with Rocky & Foley confused, and The Rock looks furious.
Edge: I'm sorry f' interrupting this big occasion but when I heard what was going down t'night I just had t' be here. I mean you going in the Hall of Fame. What a joke.
*Major Heat*
Edge: The only thing better than that is we get The Rock here too. I guess it's appropriate you're the one who's going to induct him, 'cause just like Mick you're weren't a great wrestler either.
*More Heat*
Edge: You truly do make the great combination. We've got the big movie star an' the man who made a career being a wannabe stunt man.
*More Boos*
Edge: That sums you both up in a one easy sentence. Wait I've got another. We've got one guy who made a career out of making jokes and the other who made a career of being a joke.
*More Heat*
Edge: Me on the other hand, I didn't need to throw myself off the roof of my house, fall off a cell through a table, cut myself in barbwire like you Mick or make jokes like you Rock. I'm the real deal. I proved it when I beat Mick in his own stupid match at Wrestlemania three years ago. . .
The Rock: . . . Hey listen up you disrespectful son of a bitch.
*Big Pop*
Edge doesn't take that at all well, glaring furiously at The Rock.
The Rock: Who the hell do you think you are coming down here? Do I even know who you are? You do look a little familiar. Remind me of your name jackass.
Edge: You don't remember be? Come on. You know who I am. I'm. . .
The Rock: . . . It
doesn't matter what your name is.
*Huge Pop*
The Rock: You're lucky I don't slap that huge chin off that even uglier face, an' yeah I know who you are. You were that weird kid with long hair who'd sneak around the back in stupid big ass glasses. Now you call yourself The Rated-R Superstar. With that long ass jacket you usually wear with that stupid long hair you look more like The Rated-R Transvestite.
The crowd reacts with most laughing, not at all going down well with the furious Edge.
The Rock: Was it you I saw prancing up an' down some highway pretending you were Ric Flair in a robe? What the hell is wrong with you? You really are a transvestite, but y'know what? I'm not here t' judge. I'm here f' one thing, to show a legend in Mick Foley the respect he deserves. You, you need t' get the hell out of this ring before I whoop your candy ass all over Miami.
*Massive Pop*
Edge tries to laugh it off but keeps his cool, just.
Edge: Y'know what? I said what I came here t' say, so fine, I'll go. . . right after I. . .
Edge out of nowhere nails The Rock with a microphone, putting him on the mat to a ton of heat. The crowd are pissed, and so is Foley as he spins Edge out to hammer him. The Rated-R Superstar ducks it though and runs the ropes, coming off them to take the future Hall of Famer down with a spear. Edge glares down at him on his knees, running his hand through his hair as The Rock sits up watching, absolutely incensed with anger all over his face. He makes his way back up behind Edge, and as the Canadian slowly stands back up he turns round to see Rocky pissed, and The Rock plants him with a thunderous Rock Bottom to a huge pop. He stands back up and stares down at him, still livid as his music plays again, and he turns to see Foley sitting up. Rocky walks over to him and gives him a helping hand, asking him if he's okay as they both look down at Edge before Rock raises Foley's hand, pointing to him as the fans cheer the hometown Hall of Famer and soon to be Hall of Famer with Edge slowly coming round.
Jim Ross: I don't think anyone expected The Rock's return t' go down like this. Firstly I've gotta say I'm so happy f' Mick Foley, but Edge got exactly what he deserved f' coming out here when he didn't need to. The bottom line is folks, The Rock has electrified his hometown Miami fans here t'night like only he can. It was great t' see The People's Champ here again even if it is f' one night, a night where we found out that at Wrestlemania, live in London England, John Cena will go one-on-one with The Undertaker with the streak on the line. It's been an amazing night on this wild ride of a road to the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania. That's all we've got time for t'night but thanks f' joining us once again. We'll see you next week, but from Miami it's good night all.
*End of Show*
Quick Results
The Colon Brothers df. Ezekiel Jackson & Orlando Jordan
Rey Mysterio df. The Miz
Shawn Michaels df. Chris Jericho
Queen Kong df. Gail Kim
Kofi Kingston, John Morrison & Justin Gabriel df. Jay Lethal, Cody Rhodes & Joe Hennig
Randy Orton df. Sheamus
>Superstars Tapings<
Melina df. Mia Rain
The Epitome of Excellence df. Team Omega
______________________________________
>Confirmed for Wrestlemania XXV<
Date: Sunday 29th March 2009 (6 Weeks)
Location: Wembley Stadium (London, England)
WWE Championship
Shawn Michaels (c) vs. Triple H
Intercontinental Championship
Rey Mysterio vs. Sheamus (c)
Plus
The Undertaker vs. John Cena
Money in the Bank
The Big Show vs. Chris Jericho vs. ?
Unification Match
Beth Phoenix (c) vs. Queen Kong (c)
Battle of Britain
The UK Pack, TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart vs. The Empire