*The Story So Far*
Night of Champions (21/12/2008)
Punk escapes again, slipping down Cena’s back and he shoves him right into Tazz, knocking the GM down and rolling towards the apron after clashing heads with Cena. The challenger looks shaky too and Punk looks to take full advantage, spinning him round in a flash, trying to lift him up for the GTS!!!. . . . . Cena doesn’t let him and jumps down to his feet straight away to lift Punk off his feet and onto his shoulders, this time connecting with the F-U!!!. . . . .
It’s crazy loud in the arena with the ref & Tazz still down as Cena goes for the cover anyway, hooking both legs, forgetting there’s no-one there to make the count. A pop breaks out in the crowd as Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley walks down the ramp, surprising Cena as he sits up, and as she enters the ring, she tells him to make the cover. Cena does just that and Stephanie makes her way across to make the count. . . . .
1. . . . .
2. . . . .
. . . . .
NO! Punk gets his shoulder up to a mixed reaction, not going down too well with Stephanie who doesn’t look happy as she stands up. Cena takes it on the chin though and shifts round to Punk’s legs. He tries to turn him over for the STFU but Punk kicks up at him, shoving Cena back and down to the mat. Cena’s up quickly though and goes back to Punk, but the World Champion sits up in a flash and pulls Cena down into a SMALL PACKAGE!! . . . . .
1. . . . .
. . . . .
2. . . . .
. . . . .
Cena kicks out after a slow count and Punk sits up staring angrily at Stephanie who stares back, guilt free as Cena makes his way back up. Punk gets back up too, walking right into an irish whip and he manages to grab onto the top rope. He holds onto them and Cena runs at him, into a raised boot from Punk who steps out to nail him with a THUNDEROUS ROUNDHOUSE KICK!!!. . . . . Cena falls in a heap and Punk goes for the cover, dropping to his knees and hooking both legs as Stephanie takes her time making her away across to make the count. . . . .
1. . . . .
. . . . .
2. . . . .
. . . . .
NO!! Cena gets the shoulder up after another slow count from Stephanie and Punk’s livid, and so are some of the crowd. There are some cheers too as Punk stands up and gets into it with Steph, having a right go at her and he gets a slap to the chops for his troubles as Cena sits up. Punk holds his cheek and nods his head with a smirk on his face. He looks into the crowd with Steph now looking a little uneasy. He turns back and she back tracks away from him as Cena makes it back up.
Steph looks relieved as she looks over Punk’s shoulder, setting off alarm bells for the World Champion who turns round to see Cena running at him and he ducks. Cena just manages to stop before he runs into Steph, but Punk spins him round in a flash to lift him up onto his shoulders and connects with the GTS!!!. . . . . Punk drops to his knees with a smile on his face to make the cover, but Stephanie stands still, refusing to count the fall to a ton of heat with some cheers mixed in. Punk leans back and looks over at her standing there without a care in the world.
The World Champion can’t believe it and stands up, taking his time and walking menacingly towards her. With the crowd going crazy he gets right in her face, having a real go at her and she gives it back, standing her ground as Cena comes round, starting to sit up. Stephanie again tries to slap Punk but he blocks it this time and shakes his head at her, and she realises she might just’ve made a mistake. Punk mouths something to her and lifts her up onto his shoulders, setting her up for the GTS!!!. . . . . You can’t hear yourself think.
It’s deafening in the arena as Punk turns round with Steph up on his shoulders, but Tazz is back on his feet and pulls her down, pissing Punk off no end who scoops Tazz up off his feet and nails him with the GTS!!!. . . . . Punk stares down coldly at the fallen General Manager with contempt, then turns his head to Stephanie who looks very worried. Punk goes to grab her again but Cena spins him round, catching him off guard to lift him up off the mat and send him crashing into the canvas with the F-U!!!. . . . . The crowd are split as Cena goes for the cover in a hurry and Steph darts across to make the count. . . . .
1. 2. 3.
Steph makes an insanely quick count, giving Cena the win and the world title, drawing a ton of heat in the arena. She goes to get the world title as Cena sits up in shock, not sure what to make of what’s just happened. Stephanie, without a shred of remorse walks over to him with the title and holds it out to him, and he reluctantly takes it in his hand and stands up with “My Time is Now” playing.
Steph grabs his arm and lifts it up in the air with Cena still unsure of how to deal with what’s gone on. Steph takes her leave and heads back up the ramp without looking back as Cena looks into the crowd with the world title in hand, clueless how to react as Punk sits up with the ref & Tazz still starting to stir. Punk’s livid as he looks up at Steph walking through the curtain, then turns to Cena who looks almost apologetic as the show comes to a close with Punk absolutely livid.
***
Smackdown (5 Days Later)
A seething
CM Punk walks out to the stage where a christmas tree is set up at the side to a largely negative reaction with Punk stopping & staring angrily into the crowd. Dressed in his street clothes he heads down the ramp, giving the fans dirty looks in the process, and as he enters the ring he walks right over to the apron and demands a microphone. He gets one and turns round, walking into the centre of the ring, looking furiously into the fans as his music grinds to a halt.
CM Punk: I’m not here t’night t’ beat around the bush, I’m just gonna get right t’ the point. . .
Stephanie McMahon Helmsley. . . F’ a while now she’s had a problem with how I act around here, how I say things that might not reflect the image this company tries t’ p’tray. Quite frankly I don’t give a rat’s ass what she or anyone else in her family or the board of directors think about my actions. The fact is I speak my mind and if anyone has a problem with that, that’s their deal not mine. Now you can imagine how what I’m about t’ say might just cause some concern for Stephanie an' the
image she so cares about given what happened at Night of Champions.
Punk stops and scratches his chin, trying to keep his cool.
CM Punk: I said since the moment John Cena came t’ Smackdown that I could see what Tazz an’ the powers that be had in mind. They basically handed him the shot at my world title on a plate. They didn’t anticipate the resistance they got though when I led a team t’ victory over Cena’s at Survivor Series yet he still wound up with a shot at the world title despite that. Gran'ed he earned it but the fact is the plan was there all along f’ John t’ walk into Night of Champions as the number one contender, then walk out as the new World Heavyweight Champion. Then low an’ behold we find ourselves with a new World Champion, only the way it came about. . . well it’s what I should’ve expected. When it comes t’ this business, an’ even though they like t’ think diff’rently, the McMahon family an’ Stephanie especially, don’t have a clue.
“I’m all grown up now. . .”
To a largely positive reception,
Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley walks out into the arena, not showing any signs of being intimidated by the furious Punk as she walks down to the ring, carrying a microphone with her while Punk watches her every step of the way.
CM Punk: Well look who we have here. Y’know I’m surprised you had the guts t. . .
Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley: If I were you Punk I’d take a look in the mirror and at what you did Sunday night. Not only did you knock out one referee, you put your hands on the general manager, an’ then you put your hands on me, the executive vice-president of this company. You should consider y’self lucky you haven’t been fired, but trust me, I’ll have no problem doing just that if you force my hand. You might think you’re untouchable Punk but trust me you’re not.
CM Punk: The fact is you screwed me out of the title like you've screwed most of the guys in the back. You made that quick count regardless of what happened t’ Tazz an’ the referee. You also slapped me remember. You’re the one in the wrong Steph. You’re the reason the poster boy of the company has my title, an’ conveniently the other world champion on Raw just happens t’ be your husband. Is that a co-incidence or is it just me? All I know is you’re throwing your weight around an’ I’m not going t’ stand for it. You can stand there acting like you’ve done the right thing for the company like your dad did all those years ago, which f’ the record I agree with by the way, but this, this is diff’rent. I’m not walking out of the company t’ join the enemy with your title. You did what you did for a reason, a reason that’s totally b-s an’ you’re not gonna get away with it. Whether you like it or not I’ve got a rematch clause in my contract an’ I will get my title back, an’ if you get in the way again, I’ll make sure this time I do put you t’ sleep.
*Heat, some cheers*
“My Time is Now”
The crowd erupts as
John Cena hits the stage. The new World Champion doesn’t look too happy at all despite his victory Sunday night and is barely holding onto his title as he carries it down to the ring with a microphone too, looking almost guilty as Punk stares at him every step of the way into the ring.
John Cena: Punk, you’ve more than had your say dog. It’s my turn an’ I think you’ll wanna hear what I’ve gotta say.
All three of them look nervously at each other.
John Cena: I’ve heard all y’have t’ say Punk, not just t’night an’ the point I keep comin’ back to is this. This whole time you’ve said you wan’ed me to earn my shot at the world title. A couple o’weeks ago I did just that, but Sunday night I didn’t earn this (holding up the world title). (Drops the title down again) I came here f’ a new challenge, that challenge being t’ win the world title f’ the first time, an’ as much as I wan’ed t’ get my hands on this, this ain’t the way I wan’ed it.
There’s some more uneasy looks between them.
John Cena: I bust my ass winning that tournament t’ get that shot, an’ Steph, Punk’s right, you stuck y’nose where it didn’t belong. Whatever you think of Punk, he’s right about somethin’ else too, to us this ain’t about company image, it’s about bein’ the best in this ring, night after night
week after week. T’ cut a long story short, (holds the title out) I don’t deserve this. As Punk’s pointed out time after time, you’ve gotta earn the right t’ be called the best an’ I didn’t earn it. Even though I stand here World Champion, I don’t wan’ it this way. It pains me t’ do this, but Steph, I don’t deserve this. As of this moment I’ve gotta forfeit the title.
*Heat*
Cena steps forward and goes to hand it over to Steph.
CM Punk: Wow, I never thought I’d say this John but congratulations. Congratulations on the doing the right thing.
Stephanie flat out refuses to take the title.
?: . . . Just wait a minute.
Tazz, the
General Manager of Smackdown is out on the stage and stomps his way down to the ring with all eyes on him.
Tazz: Look, you don’t need me t’ tell y’what a mess this all is. Whatever happened Sunday we’ve gotta sort this out right now, an’ the way I see it there’s only one way we can do it. . . John, you wanna forfeit the title? I get what you’re sayin’ an I respect your decision.
Tazz walks towards Cena and takes his title with Steph looking on, still not at all happy.
Tazz: Let me deal with this. Sunday night was a mess an’ we’ve gotta move on. We need t’ make sure we get a worthy champion, an’ we will in just over three weeks at the Royal Rumble. There ain’t gonna be crap like the other night, we’re gonna make sure there’s a winner. It’s gonna be you two goin’ at it, one fall to a finish in a
No Holds Barred match.
***
Royal Rumble (19/1/2009
The Straight-Edge Superstar looks wrecked as he gets up to his feet, very unsteady as he wearily looks into Cena's eyes, and Cena smirks at him. Punk's confused but not for long as Cena grabs him by the back of the neck and throws him down into the mat on his stomach. Cena jumps right down on him, crossing his legs to lock in the STFU!!!. . . . . Punk's in deep deep trouble with the crowd going crazy, split again as Cena puts Punk through hell. He's got nowhere to go and Cena's almost bursting a blood vessel to make him tap. Punk lifts his right hand up, trying to hold on with the crowd making a ton of noise. Cena holds on tight and Punk's just managing to hold on.
To his credit he keeps going and tries to drag himself towards the ropes, and as hard as he tries to stop him, Cena looks worried as Punk gets closer to the ropes, almost to within touching distance. Punk reaches out with all he has left for the bottom rope, and he might get there with a lot of the fans willing him on. He's going to grab it, but no, CENA STANDS UP AND DRAGS PUNK BACK INTO NO MAN'S LAND!!!. . . . . It's insane in the arena as Punk screams out with Cena desperate for him to tap, and it looks like he might. His hand gradually gets closer to the mat when out of nowhere, Raw's Homicide slides into the ring and stomps on Cena's head to a ton of heat.
There's some cheers too as Homicide puts the boots to Cena, breaking the hold with the ref powerless. Homicide's relentless as he pulls Cena up and fires him into the corner, following in with a hard clothesline and continuing to stomp & punch the hell out of the blindsided Cena. Punk crawls to the apron and rolls to the floor as Homicide inexplicably hammers Cena, but Cena fights back with right hands, fighting his way out of the corner. He blocks a right from Homicide and fires him into the ropes, and as Homicide comes back Cena takes him down with a LOU THESZ PRESS!
He unloads hell for leather on the Raw superstar, and as they both make their way back up, Cena slams him into the mat with the spin-out powerbomb, and with the fans cheering like mad, he signals for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, comes back off the ropes and hits it. Cena stands back up, in the zone and turns his head to see Punk slipping back in the ring with a steel chair. Punk stands up and runs at Cena, right into a kick to the gut with Cena lifting Punk up off his feet for the F-U!!!. . . . . Punk drops the chair and Cena turns to the cameras, getting ready to finish Punk. Homicide stands up though with the chair in hand and NAILS CENA IN THE BACK WITH THE IT!!!. . .
A ton of heat is thrown at Homicide as he drops the chair, glaring down without any remorse at all at the fallen Cena. Punk slowly stands back up with a sick smirk on his face and slaps Homicide on the shoulder. Cena though stars to stir, pissing Punk off, and the wannabe World Champion reaches down to pick the chair up and back away from Cena. A big pop breaks out in the crowd as Smackdown's General Manager, Tazz stomps his way down to the ring. He looks furious and he enters the ring staring at Punk and grabbing the chair from him.
Punk's pissed and he goes at it with Tazz with Cena slowly coming to and Homicide looking on. Tazz doesn't take any shit from Punk and tells him exactly what he thinks. Punk tells him it's no holds barred but Tazz says it's not meant to go down like this. Punk doesn't care and tries to grab the chair from Tazz, but the GM just shoves him back. He pisses Punk off even more and the former World Champion keeps taunting Tazz, calling him a joke & worthless. Tazz is getting angrier and Punk can see it. He keeps taunting him, telling him he can see he wants to hit him and dares him to.
Tazz resists with some fans begging him to hit Punk, and as Punk accuses him of having no balls again and tells him to get out of his ring, Tazz snaps and SWINGS THE CHAIR AT PUNK. . . PUNK DUCKS IT THOUGH AND CENA WALKS RIGHT INTO IT!!!. . . . . Cena falls in a heap with Tazz looking stunned. He can't believe what he's done and Punk just laughs, as does Homicide with the fans torn on how to react. The GM drops the chair and looks down in shock, then turns his back on the ring and leaving looking so guilty. Punk though loves it and he tells Homicide to pick Cena up, and the Raw superstar obliges.
Tazz turns round and watches with frustration as Homicide pushes Cena into Punk's path, and The Straight-Edge Superstar lifts Cena off his feet onto his shoulders, all smiles. . . GO TO SLEEP JOHN CENA!!!. . . . . Cena hits the mat and Punk turns to look at Tazz in the aisle as Stephanie McMahon runs out from the back, trying to get to the ring. Tazz grabs her though and tells her she's not getting involved again, much to Punk's amusement as he coolly covers Cena with Tazz holding onto a screaming Stephanie with the ref making the count. . . . .
1. . . . .
2. . . . .
. . . . . 3?
YES!. . . . . DING DING DING!!!
"This Fire Burns" hits to mostly a barrage of boos as the cocky Punk stands up with his arms in the air with the referee heading over to get his world title. Tazz lets go of Stephanie in the aisle and she goes mad, yelling at him, asking him what he was doing. He takes a look back at the ring to see the disgusted referee pass Punk his title and raise his hand then turns back to walk to the back, leaving Steph to look at the gloating Punk as he turns round with his title, being congratulated by Homicide.
They laugh between themselves and Punk lifts the title high up into the air, directly at Stephanie, pointing to the title and laughing with Steph absolutely furious. He turns back and walks over to the apron, taunting the fans this time by raising his title up with most of the fans booing. He doesn't care at all with Homicide looking down coldly at Cena as he opens his eyes, clueless as to what went down. Punk turns back again and throws the title over his shoulder, looking over at Stephanie and laughing again, infuriating the Executive Vice-President some more.
***
Raw (The Next Night)
A mixed reaction breaks out as the Executive Vice-President,
Stephanie McMahon walks out to the stage with a microphone in hand, and she doesn't look at all happy.
Stephanie McMahon: Last night was undoubtedly an incredible night, however there was still one situation that tarnished what should've been one of the most successful nights in the history of the WWE, that being CM Punk regaining the World Heavyweight Championship.
*Mixed*
Stephanie McMahon: I'm aware that this technically isn't a Raw issue but the scale of this problem is too big to ignore. It was clear for ev'ryone to see that what happened in the match between Punk an' John Cena was simply unacceptable. We had a general manager directly impact on the result of that match, and then he had the audacity to put his hands on me.
*Mixed*
Stephanie McMahon: That can't be tolerated, and one of the reasons I'm out here t'night is t' let Tazz an' all of you know that I will be considering what action t' take against him over the next few days. I will announce what action I will indeed take on Smackdown this Friday night, however like I said, that's not the only reason I came out here. Given how the world title match ended last night, there needs t' be a rematch where we decide who
legitimately deserves t' be the World Heavyweight Champion. With that said, live this Friday night, there will be a rematch where CM Punk will defend the world title against
John Cena.
*Huge Pop*
Stephanie McMahon: I advised them both of my decision after their match last night. CM Punk however had a problem with that decision and decided to go t' the board of directors to voice his concerns regarding my so called intentions. Having spoke with the board earlier t'day I can confirm that the match will go ahead as originally planned and I will be on hand to ensure that there's no repeat of the ending from last night. Given what happened at Night of Champions however, I've been advised that if I get involved in the match in any way, I will be removed as Executive Vice-President and from the board in general, and in addition CM Punk will automatically retain the title.
***
Smackdown (4 Days Later)
World Heavyweight Championship
(If Stephanie McMahon directly interferes, CM Punk retains the title)
John Cena vs. CM Punk (c)
Stephanie McMahon was indeed on hand, sitting on a fold-out chair at ringside, making Punk very uneasy throughout. Punk was gutted but he felt the end was near and got ready for the GTS, stalking Cena as he dragged his way back up using the ropes with Stephanie watching nervously. Cena looked groggy and staggered out into Punk's path and the GTS, and Punk hit it, smirking like mad at Steph before confidently dropping to his knees to make the count, but Cena shocked everyone by getting his shoulder up at two. Punk leant back and couldn't believe it, neither could the fans or the relieved Stephanie, and she was the one smirking at Punk this time. He was furious and stood back up, dragging Cena with him for another GTS. Cena offered no resistance and looked out of it until he caught everyone by surprise again, this time countering by grabbing Punk's knee after being dropped for the GTS to lock in the STFU instead.
It was deafening in the arena as Punk screamed out in pain, clinging on to his title with Stephanie again jumping up from her seat. She walked right over to the apron, staring right at Punk as he fought for his title when a ton of heat broke out in the stands. Homicide walked out from the back, heading down the ramp, catching Steph's attention. She stormed round to the ramp and stood in his way, yelling at him to get back, and the ref saw him too and joined Steph on the outside to try & get Homicide away from the ring. Cena was puzzled and looked round to see what was going on. He broke the hold and stood up, walking over to the apron, inviting Homicide in with Punk writhing around on the mat.
Homicide looked up at Cena, standing firm as Punk slowly made his way back up to his knees. The ref & Stephanie managed to force him back slightly, and as Cena then turned round and walked over to Punk, he pulled him up to his knees, getting a low blow from the World Champion. That got a mixed reaction and Punk jumped up, lifted Cena onto his shoulders and hit the GTS for a second time. Homicide pointed at the ref to turn around, and he did, running back into the ring as Punk made the cover, getting the three to retain his title to another mixed reaction. "This Fire Burns" hit and Homicide smirked at Stephanie who shook her head, holding her head in her hands.
Punk sat up with a smug look on his face, looking right at Stephanie who stomped back towards the ring. She got in the ring and grabbed the world title from him, confusing Punk slightly. The ref left the ring and Punk walked towards Stephanie, telling her to give him the title. Clearly she didn't want to but he grabbed it from her and was screaming at her eventually to raise her hand. She wouldn't though and turned to walk away when Punk grabbed her hand. She turned back and slapped him, infuriating Punk, so much so he dropped his title and lifted Steph up onto his shoulders for the GTS. The fans were stunned as Steph tried to wriggle free, but she couldn't and Punk dropped her head onto his knee to another deafening mixed response from the crowd.
He then lifted his title back up off the mat and looked down without a shred of the remorse as the referee along with several officials including Arn Anderson & Dean Malenko ran down to check on her, quickly calling for help as Punk left the ring to join Homicide. They watched as Cena too then checked on her with EMT's rushing down to attend to Stephanie who lay there flat on her back. Cena stood up and stared up at Punk with disgust as he simply lifted his title up into the air as Smackdown came to a close with Stephanie flat out on her back on the mat surrounded by officials & EMT's.
***
Smackdown (A Week Later - 30/1/2009)
"This Fire Burns"
The World Heavyweight Champion,
CM Punk walks out to the stage without a care in the world, joined by
Homicide who stands alongside him.
He looks down at the ring and heads down there in his street clothes, followed by Homicide to see a steel cage hovering above it, slightly confused by it as he enters the ring and picks a microphone up off the apron. Punk walks into the centre of the ring and takes another look up at the cage before smirking at the fans again with Homicide also looking up at the cage as the music cuts and brings out the boos even more.
CM Punk: So I hear t'night my actions from last week are going t' be dealt with by some representative of the board of directors, an' ever since I put Steph t' sleep last week I've been told how I should explain my actions. Well I'm sorry to disappoint you but the fact of the matter is I don't have to explain my actions to anyone, an' if those people can't' figure it out f' themselves then that's their problem, not mine.
*Mixed*
CM Punk: Finally we're back t' where we were before Stephanie stuck her nose where it didn't belong. She's not here now t' stop me going on t' Wrestlemania as the World Champion where I
deserve t' be the main event. It might not've come about in the best way but Stephanie's always stood f' sexual equality. It was her f-y-i that tried t' slap me last week. She tried t' put her hands on me so I intr'duced her face t' my knee. Like I said, not ideal but it is what it is. She's gone an' she's not stopping me anymore. The same goes f' Tazz. In fact, no one will stop me. . .
no one. . .
"No chance, that's what you've got. . ."
A huge roar breaks out in the arena and even Punk looks stunned as he & Homicide turn and look up at the stage to see
Mr. McMahon walk out with the crowd going nuts. The Chairman of the Board stops at the top of the stage and stares down intently at Punk, causing some unease for the World Champion. Vince turns and looks into the shell-shocked crowd before heading down the ramp with purpose as Punk & Homicide look on, and after stomping his way up the steps, he walks right past them, giving them a filthy look in the process. He collects a microphone and his music cuts, bringing out a huge amount of cheers from all sides of the arena. He turns to look into the crowd and turns back to Punk, glaring right at Punk, who starts to enjoy the situation.
Mr. McMahon: You've run your mouth f' way too long. Now you're going t' listen t' what
I have t' say.
*More Cheers*
Mr. McMahon: If you think Stephanie made your life a living hell then you're in f' one hell of a shock. She's a pussycat compared t' me, an' as f' going t' Wrestlemania as the World Heavyweight Champion, I wouldn't be so sure.
Punk looks confused.
Mr. McMahon: See Punk there's still a big question as to whether you deserve that title. I don't disagree that Stephanie got involved in your match with John Cena at Night of Champions, but in all three of your matches against Cena where the title's been on the line, we've not seen a deserving winner yet. That's why in just over a week's time at No Way Out in Las Vegas Nevada, it will be CM Punk defending the World Heavyweight Championship one more time against
John CENA.
*Huge Pop*
Punk is seething.
Mr. McMahon: Oh that's not all, believe me. Not only will you defend the title against Cena, t' make sure we get a deserving winner, that match will take place inside a fifteen foot high steel cage.
***
No Way Out Last Month (8/2/2009)
Punk's not down for long and tries to get out again but Cena stands up and drags him back, tries for an irish whip to the corner but Punk reverses it and runs in, nailing him with a high knee strike to the kisser. Punk grabs Cena's head on impact and spins round to run out of the corner for a bulldog, but Cena pulls back and shoves Punk forward into the pads. Punk hits them force and staggers out into Cena, F-U FROM CENA!!!. . . . . He got it and it's deafening in the arena, filled with cheers & boos as Cena hits the mat to make the cover. . . . .
1. . . . .
2. . . . .
. . . . .
. . . . . 3?
NO!!!
This time it's Punk who gets his shoulder up and Cena's in shock as he sits up, but he quickly shakes it off, turns Punk over and applies the STFU!!!. . . . . The crowd erupts and Cena tears away at Punk's face, and the World Champion has to fight to keep his title. He screams out in pain, face crimson as Cena tortures him, doing all he can to make him tap out. Punk keeps his right arm raised, desperately trying to keep it off the mat with the ref asking if he wants to quit. He screams no but looks in real trouble with Cena still putting the pressure on, but Punk starts to dig deep, dragging himself across the mat, trying to get to the ropes, and he gets closer.
Cena tries to hold on and Punk gets there, getting another mixed response from the fans as Cena lets the hold go, only to stand up and try to drag Punk back. The World Champion turns himself over though and kicks up at Cena, sending him back & down to the mat. Cena's not down for long though, and as Punk uses the ropes to get back up to his feet, Cena watches him, so focused & determined to put him away. Punk looks all over the place as he just manages to get his balance, and as he turns round to walk towards him, Cena again lifts him off his feet on to his shoulders and PLANTS HIM WITH THE F-U!!!. . . . . Punk is done for and Cena knows it, standing up to another huge mixed response from the Vegas crowd and he calls for the door to be opened again. . . . .
*GONG*
The crowd goes nuts as the lights go, turning the arena into darkness for about 30 seconds, and as they come back on, the cage door is open and standing outside it is The Undertaker. The fans are loving it, going absolutely mental as he glares menacingly at a stunned John Cena. Cena stands there in shock as Taker climbs the steps and enters the cage with the fans still cheering like crazy. Punk's rolled to the apron as Cena watches, still gobsmacked as the phenom walks slowly but intently towards him. Cena doesn't know what to do as Taker stares right through him, then grabs him by the throat with the ref trying to tempt him out of it, CHOKESLAM TO CENA!!!. . . . .
The fans continue cheering but Taker's not done and makes his cut throat gesture, then reaches down to drag the helpless Cena up, scooping him over his shoulder and into place for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!. . . . . BOOM, TOMBSTONE CONNECTS!!!. . . . . Punk sits up looking absolutely stunned as Taker slowly stands back up, eyes on Cena the whole time, then turns to look up at the Wrestlemania sign hanging from the rafters. He turns back to look at Cena before leaving the cage with Punk and the ref still shocked. Punk watches Taker leave the cage and crawls across the mat opportunistically to cover Cena with the ref reluctantly making the count. . . . .
1. . . . .
2. . . . .
. . . . .
. . . . . 3!
Punk retains and "This Fire Burns" blasts out to a heavy mixed response again as the World Champion sits up looking thrilled with Taker turning back to watch without any shred of remorse. The World Champion stands up to get his arm raised by the referee in the ring, who shakes his head doing so as the ref on the outside collects the world title and hands it over to his fellow official. Punk receives it and throws it emphatically up into the air to more cheers & boos, grinning like mad with Cena flat out. Punk isn't done gloating and walks over to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, then stops & decides to climb to the top of the cage, sitting on top of it and raising his title again, this time with both hands, smug as hell with Cena starting to stir. The smile can't be wiped off Punk's face as he laughs away, clinging on to his world title as the show comes to a close!
***
Smackdown (6 Weeks Ago)
Bryan Danielson vs. CM Punk w/Homicide
With Punk down & out, Danielson hit the top rope with the fans going crazy. Punk was flat on his back and Homicide walked across the floor to get closer to Danielson, distracting him briefly before he leapt off the top for a diving headbutt, but Punk rolled out of the way to more heat. Danielson crash landed on the mat, and when they both clawed their way back up, Danielson unloaded with a series of stiff kicks to the body. He then tried for an irish whip but Punk reversed it and caught him with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. He went for the cover straight away and Danielson got the shoulder up at two. Punk was more than frustrated, desperate to put his opponent away, and he stood up staring down at him, signalling for the GTS. Danielson dragged his way back up completely oblivious with the fans trying to warn him, and as he turned round, Punk lifted him up off his feet on to his shoulders for the GTS.
Danielson slipped down though and rolled him up, but Punk kicked out at two. They raced their way back up and Danielson ducked a roundhouse kick for a small package. Again Punk kicked out to the disappointment of the fans before Punk & Danielson jumped back up with Danielson firing Punk into the corner. He ran at him for a big boot, but Punk stepped out of the corner as Danielson ran right in, hitting the pads awkwardly. Punk took a quick breather as Danielson turned & staggered out, right into the GTS from the World Champion who made the cover & secured the win to heat from the fans. After the bell and getting his arm raised and his title passed to him, an unsatisfied Punk walked over to the apron and grabbed a microphone. Homicide joined him in the ring as Punk walked back over to Danielson and kneeled down alongside him.
CM Punk: I guess Bry', from now on you'll be careful what you wish for.
Punk smirks and looks up into the crowd, standing up.
CM Punk: Vince, I know you're watching back there. You're probably getting ready f' your big announcement t'night but I just want you t' know that regardless of who it is I'll face at Wrestlemania, their fate will be the same as this loser's. No matter who it is, this title (lifts it) is
mine, and it's staying that way.
Punk hands the microphone back through the ropes and he & Homicide see Danielson getting back up. Punk nods at Homicide and he runs at Danielson, taking him down with a West Brooklyn lariat. The Brooklyn native drags him right back up, setting him up for the ****** Killa, a back-to-back double underhook piledriver. He looks into the crowd with Punk enjoying what he sees, and his ally drills Danielson's head into the canvas to a ton of heat. He stands back up staring right back down without remorse at Danielson as "This Fire Burns" plays.
***
"This Fire Burns"
A lot of heat along with some cheers greets
CM Punk as the World Heavyweight Champion walks out to the stage with
Homicide. Punk stops and shrugs off the boos without a care in the world to head down the ramp with Homicide following, picking a microphone up off the apron as he enters the ring. They step inside and Punk gestures at the fans to pipe down.
CM Punk: The time has come ev'rybody. The excitement's got t' me. I just couldn't wait t' find out who it is who will be the number one contender for the world heavyweight title at Wrestlemania. I'm just so excited like I'm sure all of you are right? You can put whoever you want in front of me, the outcome will be the same. I've beaten ev'ryone on the Smackdown roster whether it be John Cena, Christian or Edge. Hell even Shawn Michaels an' The Undertaker who went t' Raw. I've beaten them too. There's no one left. Whoever it is will just be added t' that list an' deep down you know i. . .
"No chance, that's what you've got. . ."
Mr. McMahon walks out to the stage not looking at all happy despite a big pop from the crowd. He stares down at Punk as he does his trademark walk down to the ring with Punk laughing, mocking Vince by doing the walk around the ring too. The Chairman of the Board joins Punk & Homicide inside and stares furiously at the World Champion who stands there grinning at Vince. Mr. McMahon walks past him to grab a microphone, giving Punk a ferocious look as he does so.
Mr. McMahon: Until this point Punk I've remained professional. I told you that if you beat John Cena fair an' square at No Way Out I had no problem with you being World Champion. To a point that was true but again you failed t' do just that which is why we have this problem along with that big mouth of yours. . .
CM Punk: . . . Not t' mention what I did t' Stephanie right?
Mr. McMahon: Exactly. I've played nice until now thinking this would work out but I was wrong. Now I'm taking action. I said t' myself I'll find someone who can beat you at Wrestlemania and I have. . .
CM Punk: . . . Great, let's just get it out of the way. I already told you I've beaten ev'rybody in that locker room. . .
Mr. McMahon: . . . You're right. In one way or another you have, but I don't remember saying that it would have t' be a Smackdown superstar.
The World Champion looks curious right now, clearly surprised by that last line from Vince.
Mr. McMahon: The search went further Punk. I wanted to find someone hungry, ruthless, fearless who I knew has what it takes t' kick your sorry ass at Wrestlemania.
"I hear voices in my head. . ."
'The Viper' Randy Orton strolls out in his ring gear and a trademark T-shirt to a massive pop with a very serious look on his face as he looks down at Punk, and he too is serious now as he looks up at his Wrestlemania opponent. The Viper sets off on his way down the ramp, eyes focusing straight ahead with Punk watching too, and as Orton enters the ring, Vince extends his hand and Orton shakes with the Chairman of the Board, all to the apparent amusement of Punk.
Orton turns round to Vince and holds his hand out, clearly asking for the microphone, and he gets it.
Randy Orton: Vince, I appreciate the opportunity but I'm not doing this f' you. I'm doing this f' me.
The number one contender turns back to face Punk.
Randy Orton: I'm doing this for one reason, to become the World Heavyweight Champion.
*Big Pop*
Randy Orton: Unlike you
champ I don't have a big mouth. The only thing I need t' say right now is. . .
Orton drops the microphone in a flash and takes Punk down with the RKO to a huge pop. Vince looks on with a big smile, loving it, but as Orton gets back up, Homicide is right on him and runs at him for a lariat. The Viper ducks it though and hits another RKO with the fans going nuts. Orton stands back up slowly, staring down at Punk the whole time as the World Champion starts to stir, ever so slowly dragging himself towards the corner. Orton briefly looks into the crowd and then backs up into the opposite corner to Punk, setting his sights on doing some damage to the World Champion, and again the fans love it. Punk looks in a bad way as he tries to get to his knees, and the determined Orton darts across the mat to punt Punk in the head, but Punk pulls back and slips out of the ring. Boos ring round the arena as he reaches back inside to grab his world title as Homicide too slides out of the ring. With the boos continuing to echo around the arena, Punk & Homicide backtrack to the ramp looking lucky & relived to escape with a very focused looking Orton watching their every step. Vince enjoys what he's seeing too as Orton stands tall in the ring, letting Punk know that he's got a huge fight on his hands at Wrestlemania, and boy it looks like Punk knows it.
***
Smackdown (5 Weeks Ago)
"This Fire Burns"
The
World Heavyweight Champion,
CM Punk walks out to the stage to a ton of heat from the St. Louis crowd with
Homicide by his side. Punk doesn't look at all bothered by the boos, laughing them off as he walks down the ramp to the ring with Homicide as serious as ever. Punk picks a microphone up off the steps and enters the ring, followed by the Brooklyn native, but the World Champion walks over to the ropes and poses like Orton, raising his title too in the process with both arms extended in the air, getting more heat from Orton's hometown fans. The music cuts and brings out the boos even more, again brining a smile to Punk's face.
CM Punk: Vince had you all thinking that John Cena, so did Stephanie that they'd get this title off me and on to the golden boy John Cena, but look who's still standing here World Heavyweight Champion.
The World Champion lifts his title high up into the air.
CM Punk: Nobody is taking this from me,
nobody. I'm actually glad Vince chose Randy Orton, simple because he's one more of 'his guys'. He's one of these guys Vince likes t' make sure we all know are 'third generation' superstars. It doesn't matter one bit what your DNA is. I could rattle off a list of the best this business has ever seen including myself whose parents never stepped foot inside this ring. There's so much talent back there that get overlooked in favour of Vince's pet projects that deserve this opportunity more than Randy that may have me worried. Unfortunately for Vince, I'm not worried, not the least bit. It just proves how clueless Vince is an' how he doesn't know a damn thing about wrestling anymore.
*More Boos*
CM Punk: It's an absolute joke but that's Vince McMahon for you. T' hell with actual wrestling while he lines his pockets. Well at Wrestlemania he'll get the message when I. . .
"No chance, that's what you've got..."
Mr. McMahon steps out into the arena to a big pop, staring down furiously at a very unrepentant Punk. The Chairman of the Board does his trademark walk down to the ring and steps inside, walking past Punk, giving him a death stare before collecting a microphone. His music stops and he turns round to walk back towards Punk, staring right at him.
Mr. McMahon: You disgust me y'know that.
CM Punk: Like I care what you think. Actually, I don't think I can wait f' you t' hit me first. I think I'm just gonna put you out of your misery an' put you t' sleep right now.
A big cheer breaks out and
Bryan Danielson charges down the ramp, sliding into the ring, staring straight ahead at Punk & Homicide, both surprised to see him.
Bryan Danielson: You wanna put your hands on him? Why not put your hands on someone who will fight back like me?
*Big Pop*
Bryan Danielson: Go on champ. What you waiting for? Oh, is it 'cause I'm a position t' fight back unlike the last two weeks. Come on big man, or do you want me t' turn round or lie down first?
Danielson hands the microphone back to Vince and Punk drops his as he & Homicide walk menacingly towards Danielson, and then attack with right hands and grind him down, putting him down on his knees. Punk takes a swing at his chest, nailing him with a stiff kick. Chants of "Randy" break out as Vince watches helplessly, wisely staying back. Punk takes a step back and calls for Danielson to stand up.
"I HEAR VOICES IN MY HEAD..."
Randy Orton storms out from the back to an enormous pop and down to the ring as Punk & Homicide back away from Danielson who makes it back up as The Viper slides in under the bottom rope. Punk & Homicide reluctantly step out of the ring with Orton & Danielson eying them up, and Punk looks furious as he walks towards the ramp, staring angrily at Orton who stares right back intensely, gunning for Punk, eyes fixed firmly on him.
Mr. McMahon: Punk. You think Randy's no threat? Well we'll find out later on, 'cause t'night in the main event you're gonna team up with Homicide t' take on the team of Bryan Danielson
and Randy ORTON.
***
John Cena, Randy Orton & Bryan Danielson
vs. CM Punk, Edge & Homicide
Orton pulled Homicide's head into his body by the ropes and swung him so his legs landed on the ropes, then drilled him with a rope hung spike DDT to a rip roaring response. Before he could go for a cover, Punk burst into the ring, running at Orton who caught him with a right hand. Edge was in next but Cena raced in and tackled him down to the mat, sending him rolling under the bottom rope. Cena followed him out and Danielson joined the party, running at Punk and taking both of them over the top with a clothesline. With all four on the floor, it left Orton with Homicide, and still reeling from the DDT he clawed his way back up and Orton threw himself down to the mat, driving his fists into the canvas. The roof nearly came off when he then jumped up in the air, planting Homicide with the RKO to get the win, and as he stood up getting his arm raised he looked right over at a very frustrated Punk sitting up on the floor. Punk was pissed and Orton stared at him intently with the St. Louis crowd still cheering like crazy for their hometown boy as Cena & Danielson got back in the ring to congratulate each other & Orton. The Viper then hit the second rope, looking into the stands before looking down at the furious World Champion again with the Wrestlemania sign hanging from the rafters in sight as the show came to a close in St. Louis.
***
Smackdown (4 Weeks Ago)
Non-Title Match
Randy Orton vs Dolph Ziggler
The crowd erupted as an intense Orton then threw himself down to the mat, driving his fists into the canvas, staring right in the face of the weary United States Champion. They all knew the RKO was coming, and Ziggler started to come round, trying to get to his knees when a ton of heat broke out. Homicide was shown charging down the ramp, sliding into the ring, but The Viper saw him coming, ducked a clothesline and jumped up, catching Homicide with an RKO with CM Punk watching as he walked down the ramp. The World Heavyweight Champion saw the referee award the match to Orton by DQ and he was furious as he walked closer to the ring with Orton glaring at him. The fans were cheering as Homicide rolled out of the ring and Orton stared out Punk, keeping him out of the ring until Ziggler, back on his feet, sneaked up behind Orton and hit the Zig Zag to a ton of heat. Boos rang out, and after being handed his title he left the ring, storming past Punk who coolly entered the ring smiling at the sight of Orton down & out, at his mercy. The World Champion walked over to the opposite side and asked for a microphone, trying not to laugh at seeing Orton starting to come round, eyes all over the shop.
CM Punk: This, this is the scene of my world title defence at Wrestlemania with me standing over Randy Orton
still the WWE Champion.
*Tons of Heat*
?: If i may have your attention...
Linda McMahon, microphone in hand walks out to the stage and Punk turns round to look up, clearly surprised to be interrupted.
Linda McMahon: Good evening ev'ryone. I'm sure you're all wondering why I'm out here given it's almost a year since you last saw me, so let me ease your curiosity.
Punk looks totally confused.
Linda McMahon: I've just come from speaking with my husband to inform him of a decision the board of directors have made regarding the World Heavyweight Championship match at Wrestlemania between Randy Orton and CM Punk. Due to the controversy we've seen in recent World Championship matches which has involved my daughter Stephanie and the potential for that to happen again at Wrestlemania, we have decided to appoint a special guest referee for this match to ensure that there is no foul play this time. We have appointed a man who we trust to ensure we have a fair outcome in that match. Not only will he be a referee we believe we can rely on, he is a WWE legend who we feel epitomises the celebration of the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania... With that said, the man who will officiate this year's world championship match will be...
'Stonecold STEVE AUSTIN.
*Huge Pop*
Punk is absolutely shocked. He can't believe it as he looks blankly up at Linda, oblivious to Orton getting back up behind him. The Viper spins him round in and plants him with an RKO to a massive roar in the arena. "Voices" hits as The Viper stands back up, takes a look up at Linda before staring down at Punk again with Homicide sitting up on the outside. Orton lifts the world title up and stares at it before dropping it on the fallen World Champion.
***
Smackdown (3 Weeks Ago)
"I hear voices in my head..."
Randy Orton strolls out to the stage, the same intense figure we've seen since his return in January to a big pop. He stops & looks out into the crowd for a moment before heading down the ramp to more cheers, joining Cole in the ring and shaking his hand. The music stops and the fans cheer as he again gazes into the stands, not giving any emotion off as Cole hands him a microphone.
Michael Cole: ... I think you'll agree that it's been a crazy few weeks since you came back t' Smackdown from Raw to challenge CM Punk at Wrestlemania, but last week I think we were all shocked by a couple of things. Firstly the very personal comments about you made by CM Punk, and then the announcement from Linda McMahon that in your World Championship match, there will be a special guest referee who goes by the name of 'Stonecold' Steve Austin.
Randy Orton: When I agreed to come back t' Smackdown I had one thing in mind, to win the World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania.
*More Cheers*
Randy Orton: That is what I intend t' do. I also knew that CM Punk had a big mouth. I didn't come back here to talk. I came here to become World Champion, but after last week I can't wait to shut his mouth
and take his title... It doesn't matter t' me who the referee is as long as they do their job, counting CM Punk's shoulders t' the mat and raising my hand as the
new World Heavyweight Champ...
"This Fire Burns"
A chorus of boos mixed in with some cheers greets the
World Heavyweight Champion,
CM Punk as he walks out to the stage with
Homicide, and his music cuts with an angry Punk already holding a microphone as he walks down the ramp, absolutely furious tonight.
CM Punk: Yeah I'm sure you're confident that's gonna happen. I am too. You wanna know why? It's simple really. We all know there's no way in the world Austin's gonna be a fair referee. You just have t' look at ev'rything he's ever done. He doesn't do what he's supposed t' do. He's 'Stonecold' Steve Austin.
Punk takes the steps and enters the ring, followed by Homicide.
Michael Cole: Are you suggesting that you believe Stonecold will deliberately abuse his position as referee to cost you the world title?
CM Punk: Is that what I'm saying? Weren't you listening Cole? I'll tell you what I really believe. I believe this is another McMahon conspiracy, just like giving that disrespectful despicable user right there a shot at my world title.
"No chance, that's what you've got..."
Mr. McMahon emerges from the back to a big pop, angering Punk further as he turns & glares up at him. The Chairman of the Board doesn't look happy too as he stomps his way down the ramp to join them in the ring, being handed a microphone by Cole.
Mr. McMahon For once I can say that I agree 100 percent with CM Punk. He's right. I indeed have a chequered hist'ry with 'Stonecold' Steve Austin. However in no way was this my decision or an elaborate plan to screw CM Punk out of the world title at Wrestlemania.
CM Punk: Yeah right.
Mr. McMahon: I assure you I'm telling the truth. This was in no way shape or form my idea. The reality is he's the last person I would want refereeing this match. I was just as furious as you were when Linda made that announcement. Need I remind you of the hell me an' Austin put each other through year after year? We hated each other's guts...
CM Punk: ... What like we do?
Mr. McMahon: ... Put it whatever way you want Punk. Regardless of what he did f' this company we still hate each other. I despise him for a lot of the same reasons I despise you. You have no respect whatsoever for authority like him. That's why I'm worried he's going t' stick it t' me by helping you retain that title at Wrestlemania.
CM Punk That's ridiculous... ridiculously predictable. I came out here an' told these people you'd say exactly what you just did. You can play on your hist'ry all you want, I know what's going on here. I haven't fallen for it yet and I won't from now until Wrestlemania. I was right about Stephanie and I know I'm right about you too. You are
not taking my title from me. YOU GOT THAT
BOSS?
Punk gets right in Vince's face, and Vince shows no fear, getting right in there too but Orton grabs Punk by the arm and spins him round.
Randy Orton:
HEY, you wan' a fight t'night? How about you fight me?
***
Randy Orton & Bryan Danielson
vs CM Punk & Homicide
The Viper stormed the ring and charged across the mat to knock Punk off the apron to stop Homicide making a tag. Homicide was there for the taking, and Orton quickly put him into place for the rope hung spike DDT. He drilled his head into the mat to a big pop, but he wasn't done there and turned over on to his front and started banging his fists into the canvas with the fans going nuts. Punk was still on the outside as Homicide clawed his way back up with Orton leaping up to plant him with the RKO to secure the win. As he got his arm raised, Punk pulled Danielson off the apron with Danielson's head hitting the apron in the process. The World Champion then slid in the ring with his world title, running at Orton and nailing him in the face with the title they'll fight for at Wrestlemania. The fans booed like crazy as the vengeful Punk stared down with contempt at the number one contender who lay there flat on his back, absolutely motionless. He then turned to walk over to the apron, demanding a "damn microphone", and he got one.
CM Punk:
Hey Vince, listen up. You can make out you're not behind this Austin crap all you want, I know what's going on. If you're watching too, you're not going t' screw me out of this title either.
*Heat*
CM Punk: The same goes f' you Vince and any member of your stupid family. No one's taking this from me. I promise you this, I
will walk out of Wrestlemania with this.
The World Heavyweight Champion thrusts his title up into the air to more heat.
CM Punk: I will leave Wrestlemania
still World Heavyweight Champion. You don't believe me?
The Viper gets to his knees, trying to stand back up when Punk drops his microphone all of a sudden to lift Orton up from his knees and on to his shoulders to hit the GTS. Again the crowd boo as Punk stares down at Orton, kneeling down alongside him before standing back up, passed the microphone by Homicide.
CM Punk: So, do you believe me now?
"This Fire Burns" plays as Punk stands over Orton, lifting his title up into the air again to a ton of heat with Danielson sitting up hurting on the outside with
Mr. McMahon shown watching in his office, not pleased at all. The smug Punk takes another look down at Orton, revelling in having put Orton to sleep with Homicide alongside him as the show comes to a close.
***
Smackdown (2 Weeks Ago)
Josh Matthews is standing by backstage at the interview set.
Josh Matthews: Ladies an' gentlemen please welcome my guest at this time, 'The Viper' Randy Orton.
The camera zooms out to show
'The Viper' Randy Orton standing there looking as serious as ever.
Randy Orton: ... CM Punk can think and say what he likes, it doesn't mean that's what'll happen. What he needs to understand is that as much as he wants to keep that title, I want to win it. Nothing he can say or do will stop me. He can't sucker punch me like last week. It'll just be us in that ring, no one else, and I'm ready Josh believe me.
Josh Matthews: Well it might just be you an' Punk in the match but there will be someone else in the ring with you. That person being the special guest referee, 'Stonecold' Steve Austin. What are your thoughts on Stonecold being in charge of your match as well as the concern of both CM Punk
and Mr. McMahon that he maybe a deciding factor in the match? We also believe that he will be here next week.
Randy Orton: The only thing that matters t' me is that he calls the match down the line. As long as he does that we won't have a prob...
All of a sudden, Orton's jumped by
Homicide, clubbed across his back and sent crashing into the wall. The
World Heavyweight Champion,
CM Punk walks casually into the shot as Homicide stands over Orton and stomps all over him, stamping on his head too, finally relenting as Punk then kneels down alongside Orton. The Viper's eyes flicker, barely conscious.
CM Punk: Oh Randy. You should know by now that no one's taking this title from me, and that includes you.
Into the shot walks a very concerned
Mr. McMahon and The Chairman of the Board can barely contain his rage.
Mr. McMahon: You really...
CM Punk: ... Shut up, I'm the one doing the talking now, which brings me to a little proposal I have. It's something I think you'll appreciate as a business man and I'm sure you're desperate f' this as much as I am.
Vince looks intrigued.
CM Punk: See next week we'll be in my hometown of Chicago and there's nothing I want more than getting in the ring with you. I know you'd love nothing more than t' get your hands on me too. What you say boss? Has Vinny Mac got the guts?
Mr. McMahon: Just get out of my sight.
Punk smirks at Vince and leaves with Homicide, leaving to kneel down and check on Orton, looking very worried as Orton tries to sit up, eyes all over the place. Vince turns and looks up the hall for help.
Mr. McMahon: I NEED A MEDIC. NOW DAMMIT.
Orton looks all over the shop as Vince eagerly awaits help.
***
The UK Pack w/TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart
vs CM Punk & Homicide
Burchill came in hot and surprised the World Champion, ducking a clothesline and hitting an overhead belly-to-belly suplex. The crowd loved it, and he came close after hitting a standing moonsault. Burchill went looking for a diving knee drop but missed, giving Punk the chance as they made their way back up to level him with a deadly roundhouse kick. It put Burchill down but he just got his shoulder up at two, much to the frustration of Punk. The World Champion jumped back up signalling for the GTS but Burchill slipped down of his shoulders and turned him into the C4, or so he thought. Punk escaped with elbow shots to the head and then a spin kick to the gut before this time hitting the GTS as Homicide hit the ring, bursting across to it knock Smith off the apron to give Punk the chance to make the cover and pick up the win to largely heat in the crowd. He & Homicide got their arms raised, not looking too pleased it has to be said, and Punk wanted a microphone big time, and he made sure he got it.
CM Punk: Earlier t'night I made a challenge t' Vince McMahon. Unsurprisingly I didn't get an answer to that challenge, a challenge to a match on Smackdown next week in my hometown of Chicago. I tried to appeal to the business man in him too but he didn't give me an answer which is what I want right now Vince.
The World Heavyweight Champion turns to look up at the stage.
CM Punk: Come on Vince, you know you wanna a piece of me. I've seen it in your eyes so many times. I've seen you just dying t' hit me. Now's your chance. I'm handing it to you on a plate. All you have t' do is come out here an' say yes to a match with CM Punk next week in Chicago. I don't even care if Austin's gonna be there. I'll let him know what I think about him too but I just want you t' come out here an' give me an answer
right now.
The Chairman of the Board,
Mr. McMahon walks slowly but surely out to the stage, staring down intensely at Punk & Homicide.
Mr. McMahon: You want an answer? You want a match with me?
CM Punk: You're damn right.
Mr. McMahon: Well, YOU GOT IT!
*Huge Pop*
Mr. McMahon: Whoa hold on. We're doing it my way Punk. I'll get in that ring with you next week in a tag team match with the two of you and my partner,
Randy Orton.
*More Cheers*
CM Punk: Whoa whoa whoa, that's not the challenge Vince.
Mr. McMahon: Well that's what's on the table. Take it or leave it.
CM Punk: That's not the deal. I'm the one calling the shots this time, not you. Clearly you don't have the balls... sorry the grapefruits you say you do t' get in this ring alone with me.
That pisses Vince off no end.
CM Punk: You could prove me wrong I guess by walking on down here right now or are you as gutless as I think you are?
Vince struggles to contain his rage and quickly snaps, dropping the microphone and pacing down the ramp, taking his jacket off and throwing it down on the ramp. Homicide walks to the apron and is about to step through the ropes.
"I HEAR VOICES IN MY HEAD..."
The fans blow the roof off the joint when
'The Viper' Randy Orton steps out from the back, glaring down furiously at Punk & Homicide. They're shocked and Vince puts the brakes on as Orton walks intently down the ramp, glaring furiously at Punk & Homicide. Homicide steps back as Orton walks past Vince and walks straight to the steps, taking them slowly while staring right at the men who attacked him earlier. He enters the ring and Homicide charges right at him, right into a right hand and is tossed over the top rope. Punk takes advantage though, running at him from behind in a flash and nailing him with his world title. Vince isn't happy and Punk sees that, taunting Vince with a smug smile and he invites Vince into the ring. Vince stays still and Punk walks back towards Orton, pulling him up from his feet, about to lift him up for the GTS when Vince shifts towards the apron. Punk puts him down and again begs Vince to get in the ring, and he thinks about it, reaching up at the ropes but then steps back. Punk isn't happy, but he's spun round all of a sudden into an RKO from The Viper to a big pop from the Vancouver crowd. Orton leans back on his knees and simply looks down at Punk, absolutely motionless on the mat when Vince slides in the ring and picks up the microphone, still livid as he stares down at the World Champion who's still not moving.
Mr. McMahon: I might not be in this ring with you next week but I'll be outside this ring watching at Wrestlemania when you lose the World Heavyweight Championship to that man right there,
RANDY ORTON.
Randy stands up and glances over at Mr. McMahon, not too impressed by what he's just heard with Punk coming to as Vince continues to stare furiously at him.
***
Smackdown (Friday Night)
"I Won't Do What You Tell Me"
The crowd erupts with a surge of cheers and
'Stonecold' Steve Austin walks out into the arena to get an even bigger pop from the Chicago crowd. He stops centre stage and looks out into the adoring crowd, gives them a wry grin before heading off down the ramp with fans desperately trying to reach out to touch The Rattlesnake but he carries on to the ring. He quickly takes the steps and enters the ring, walking over to the apron and looks into the crowd, throwing his arms up to set off another cheer in the United Center. He turns to walk over to the adjacent side of the apron and asks for a microphone, getting one as his music cuts.
"AUSTIN, AUSTIN..."
He loves it, smirking as he walks into the middle of the ring.
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: It sure is great t' be back in this ring but I'm not hear f' a reunion. I'm here 'cause in a few days at Wrestlemania I'll be the guest referee in the world heavyweight title match-n-I've heard there's people been questioning what Stonecold's gonna do. If people 'ave got somethin' t' say t' me they can say it t' my face.
*Pop*
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: The bottom line's I ain't hear t' screw anyone. I ain't here t' screw CM Punk. I ain't here t' screw Vince McMahon. I was asked t' do a job dammit-n-that's what I'm gonna do. If anyone's got a problem with that...
"This Fire Burns"
The crowd erupts again as Chicago's own
World Heavyweight Champion,
CM Punk paces out from the back along with
Homicide, heading straight down the ramp to the ring with the fans going nuts, staring straight ahead at Austin. The Rattlesnake watches Punk stomp up the steps and pick a microphone up off the apron before entering the ring, followed by Homicide. Punk walks right towards Austin, and The Straight-Edge Superstar just stares at him furiously, seemingly wanting answers as his music stops.
"CM PUNK, CM PUNK..."
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: So this is CM Punk?
"WHAT?"
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: The World Heavyweight Champion?
"WHAT?"
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: The bench mark?
"WHAT?"
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: The bench mark of what exactly? Carrying that title by being a yellow ass son of a bitch?
CM Punk: Who the hell do you think you are t' judge me? You wan'ed someone to come out here if they have a problem with you being referee, well I sure as hell got a problem with it. Y'know what? I used t' look up t' you. You were the one guy who changed this company. You stood up t' the devil. You were told you won't succeed. You were held back but you knew the powers that be that think they know it all were wrong. You believed in yourself. You came out here, you busted your ass-n-showed ev'ryone how good 'Stonecold' Steve Austin was.
*Pop*
CM Punk: You sent a message t' people like me that knew they had what it takes to chase their dreams no matter what. If you're good enough you can do it, and I have. Now I stand here being judged by you, the guy who I now see as the guy who took his ball-n-went home, who walked out on this company all because he didn't want t' get in the ring with the next big thing at the time.
Then you sold out. You came back though for one last big pay day, one last moment in the spotlight at Wrestlemania with The Rock though didn't you, you ignorant son of a bitch?
There's gasps from the crowd and Punk stares intently at Austin.
CM Punk: Who do you think you are walking into this ring telling me I'm a yellow ass son of a bitch? Yeah there's been controversy as far as this title goes but that's not my fault. Just as the McMahons were out t' screw you, they screwed me. Stephanie screwed me out of the title at Night of Champions. I'm sorry that I was screwed. I'm sorry that at No Way Out The Undertaker walked down to this ring-n-tombstoned John Cena. I'm sorry that both those controversial moments had nothing t' do with me. I admit at the Royal Rumble I came up with a plan t' get my title back but it was clear for the world t' see that I still should've had that title anyway, so I'm sorry I did what I had t' do for the sake of justice.
Punk is deadly serious right now and continues staring at Austin to let him know.
CM Punk: Now I'm genuinely sorry that you're the special guest referee for my match Sunday night at Wrestlemania when I defend my title that I deserve. You go ask Shawn Michaels if I deserve it. Last year at Summerslam I defended this title against him, one of the best of all time. Don't get me wrong, we hated each other's guts but we respected each other's ability. So much so that when I beat Shawn, despite him letting the world know how much he hated me, he shook my hand. That shows you how much I deserve this title. It's ironic really 'cause you won your first world title by beating Shawn Michaels at Wrestlemania in a match where there was a special guest referee who helped you out by knocking Shawn Michaels out, so how dare you come into my city of Chicago and talk about something you have no idea about.
*Big Pop*
CM Punk: What I will tell you Steve is this... If you so much as put your hands on me, I'll knock you out the way Mike Tyson knocked Michaels out that night.
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: You wanna try that right now champ?
CM Punk: I don't need to because I came here prepared with this... a contract that makes sure I don't get screwed again like I was at Night of Champions. There's an extra clause to the one already signed. That is that if you so much as put one finger on me in an aggressive manner I automatically retain my championship.
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: You got y'self a contract? What does that contract say if I whoop your ass right here right now?
CM Punk: You wanna try that? Go ahead Austin. I dare ya, try it!
It looks like the tension is going to spill over...
"No chance, that's what you've got..."
Mr. McMahon emerges from the back to mostly heat looking very panicked indeed.
Mr. McMahon: Now I'm sure you will all understand why I keep my distance and remain up here on this stage.
Both Austin & Punk as well as Homicide look up at The Chairman of the Board.
Mr. McMahon: Steve it's good t' see you but I share CM Punk's concerns, only I feel that you may end up sticking it t' me like you made a career out of it just t' spite me for old time's sake by helping Punk r'tain the World Heavyweight Championship. Given ev'rything we've been through you have to see why I'm concerned. There is however one thing you can do Steve. You can rubbish this theory CM Punk has that this is all one big conspiracy t' screw him out of the world title?
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: I think I already did that Vince, and if he's that stupid t' think I'd do anything you told me he's a dumber SOB than you think. Like I told the champ here, the only thing I'm gonna do is call it down the line, simple as that.
CM Punk: Oh, n-I guess we're supposed t' just take your word for it 'cause you're
so trustworthy? I don't care what you say. I know you can't be trusted. We all know what you're like. You're a head-case. You're capable of anything. You can just turn in a second-n-stun ev'ryone in this ring. Why on earth would I believe you?
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: I guess you're right...
Austin goes to stun Punk but pulls back, surprising Punk who steps back and Austin laughs at him.
CM Punk: Yeah, real funny. You'll be laughing on the other side of your face when I put you t' sleep.
'Stonecold' Steve Austin: Go 'head champ. Give it y'best shot.
Punk's pissed and gets right back in Austin's face with Vince watching intently.
"I HEAR VOICES IN MY HEAD..."
A mixed reaction greets
Randy Orton as he paces out from the back and he takes Vince's microphone.
Randy Orton: Before I walk down there Punk and give you a taste of what you can expect at Wrestlemania, there's just one thing I wanna say... Steve, I have no reason to doubt you. If you call our match down the line we won't have a problem. I hope that's what happens. Now, it's time I walk down there and make you both pay for what you did last week.
Orton drops the stick and sets off down the ramp but Vince picks it back up.
Mr. McMahon: Randy wait.
Orton stops and looks back at Vince.
Mr. McMahon: Look, Wrestlemania's just two days away. We don't want all hell t' break loose. That's why I've made two matches t'night. In that ring later on Randy Orton you will get a chance at revenge f' last week when you go one-on-one in a no disqualification match against Homicide.
*Pop*
Mr. McMahon: You Punk if you don't want t' be stripped of that world title will be banned from ringside. As f' you, I have a special match planned f' you on your return home t' Chicago.
*More Cheers*
Mr. McMahon: Right here in our main event you will have the chance to prove you're a deserving World Champion, The benchmark when you face
The Undertaker.
*Massive Pop*
Punk shakes his head, furious, but it gets worse as Austin grabs the contact from his hand and rips it up in Punk's face. The World Champion can't believe it and he slaps The Rattlesnake, and the crowd react with gasps, shocked their own Punk had the nerve to slap The Rattlesnake. Austin smirks then kicks for the stunner but Punk counters, pushing him back into the ropes. Austin hits the ropes and comes back with a Lou Thesz Press to a very mixed reception from the Chicago crowd. Homicide pulls Austin off Punk though and goes for a right hand, but Austin ducks it and hits the Stunner to a loud pop. Punk races back up and goes to take Austin's head off with a roundhouse kick, but Austin ducks that too and stuns the World Champion in front of a torn crowd, but it's mostly boos as Austin stands up with an angry Orton looking on from the ramp as Austin's music hits again. He looks up at Orton and a confused Vince with Punk & Homicide flat on their backs.
***
Non-Title Match
The Undertaker vs CM Punk
The crowd was electric and they thought that could be it when Punk made the cover, but again Taker just managed to get his shoulder up to avoid defeat ahead of his match with John Cena at Wrestlemania. This time the frustration did show on the face of the World Champion, driving his hands into the mat. He stood up still livid and signalled for the guillotine like Taker as he made his way back up, scooping him up for the Tombstone on Taker. The cheers were quickly gone as he couldn't manage it and Taker then countered by going to scoop Punk up himself. Punk again managed to wriggle down to safety, desperately avoiding the deadly hold and panicked by low blowing Taker from behind to get himself disqualified. It drew some boos from the crowd and Punk was steaming, leaving the ring straight away to get his world title before returning to the ring. He posed with it for the hometown crowd, pointing up at the Wrestlemania sign, defiantly lifting it up into the air. He then turned to see Taker sitting back up, and still angry he locked & loaded on him, getting ready to take his head off with the title. Just as Taker was about to make it back up, John Cena burst down the ramp into the ring to a huge chorus of boos. Punk was livid and ran at Cena instead but Cena ducked with Punk slipped out of the ring before Cena could get at him. The Straight-Edge Superstar reluctantly left the ring staring furiously back at Cena as Taker stood up, shocked to see Cena there. Cena turned and they stared at each other, tension in the air, and as Punk turned looking up at the ramp, Randy Orton walked out and stared down at Punk too, stop ping Punk in his tracks, angrily looking up at Orton too with all rivals eyes on each other with the Wrestlemania sign looming large above the ring with just two days to go until the biggest show of the year.